Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 68

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Coconut Oil: Good or Bad for You? C VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.CAWNYC.COM

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oconut oil is commonly sold as a health food and some claim the fat in it may be better for us than other saturated fats. Coconut oil is as unhealthy as beef dripping and butter, say US heart experts.

It is packed with saturated fat which can raise "bad" cholesterol, says the American Heart Association (AHA), in a recently released a report advising against the use of coconut oil.

The Dietary Fats and Cardiovascular Disease advisory reviewed existing data

continued on page 8

Refugees Turning to the Caribbean ... see page 2

Single Women Are Buying Homes Faster Than Single Men: Here’s Why

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kip the spouse. Buy the house.

Single women account for 17 percent of homebuyers in the U.S., vs. 7 percent of single men The news and research about women and money can be dreary. Women earn less than their male counterparts, pay harsher workplace penalties for pursuing parenthood, struggle more with debt, and save less for retirement.

But there’s one area of personal finance where single women are outpacing men in the U.S., and it's a significant one: home ownership.

To know why, read page page 3 of Equity Smart Realty Insertion

ISSUE 68 VOLUME 16

Trump Reverses Obama’s Cuba Policy ...see page 14

St Lucia’s Citizenship

by Investment ...see page 6

Scared? Nervous

about President Trump’s Immigration Plans?

CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION:

Jamaica’s Gov’t Urged to Pressure Caricom...see page 2

Call 855-768-8845 Estelle’s Message ...see page 6

Brian Figeroux, Esq.

Marijuana Legalization: How Does It Affect DUI/DWI Law? ... see page 10

Five Caribbean restaurants to check out in Brooklyn this weekend. Give us your ratings of these restaurants on a scale of one to ten; ten being the best, email to info@myiqinc.com. Recommend your favorite Caribbean restaurants, email to info@myiqinc.com.

DACA Remains for Now, Fate Still Unclear ... see page 15

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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

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

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

IN THE NEWS Refugees Turning to the Caribbean

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he Caribbean is fast emerging as an attractive haven for refugees and the region cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the worldwide problem, an official of the United Nations High Commission for Refugee (UNHCR) has warned.

The revelation and caution came from UNHCR Protection Officer Ruben Barbado, as he addressed a workshop for media professionals on Refugee Protection in Trinidad and Tobago .

Statistics show that there was a 257 percent increase in the number of asylum seekers in the region between mid-2015 and mid-2016.

Barbado said Belize, the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago were the top three countries in the region for refugees to seek haven. And those refugees came from other Caribbean nations – Cuba and Haiti – as well as further afield – Bangladesh, Colombia, Venezuela, Asia, Sri Lanka, Syria,

Pakistan, Africa and the Middle East.

Figures revealed that the number of refugees in the Caribbean have steadily increased from 770 in 2014, to 837 in the following year, to 976 during the first half of 2016.

“So the reality is that many people are coming here seeking asylum….It cannot be compared with worldwide, but for countries with limited resources, it is also a concern and a challenge, but also an opportunity, because these refugees are also coming with a skill,” he said. “You have doctors, you have entrepreneurs, you have teachers, you have farmers and,

in that regard, they can help the economy.”

Newsday reported that during the workshop, three groups of refugees told their stories: A Venezuelan family that fled their country due to political persecution, a Pakistani group that left because of religious persecution, and a Colombian group.

They spoke of their difficulties dealing with the police and immigration, and the issue of a lack of legislation to deal with refugees and most arrangements being on an ad hoc basis was raised repeatedly.l

Jamaica Government Urged to Put Pressure on CARICOM Countries over Free Movement Shortcomings

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amaican authorities are worried about the treatment of their nationals seeking to live and work in sister Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states.

So much so, that one Member of Parliament has urged the Andrew Holness Government to reciprocate.

At a meeting of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee of Parliament, an official from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security revealed that Jamaicans were being turned away by some member states that have failed to make necessary legislative changes under the free movement clause of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

Under the CSME, CARICOM nationals who have a university degree, media practitioners, artists, musicians and sportspersons are allowed to move freely.

In addition, provisions have also been for the movement of qualified teachers, nurses, artisans, domestic workers and

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holders of associate degrees and comparable qualifications.

However, Director of Work Permits at the Ministry, Lisa-Ann Grant, said some member states have not approved the new categories in law and this creates a challenge for Jamaicans with CARICOM Skills Certificates who are seeking employment in those countries.

“If they have moved, for example, with a skills certificate as a domestic worker into a State such as Trinidad or even

Barbados, because they have not amended their legislation to recognize that category, unfortunately our nationals are challenged. They have to get an extension of stay — the skills certificate doesn’t undergo that process of verification and unconditional landing occurs,” Grant outlined.

MP for Manchester North Western, Mikael Phillips, took a strong stance as he charged that some countries were not willing to change their laws and resorted to encouraging Jamaicans to take up lowpaying jobs.

“If they have the certificate they will have to pay them a higher wage, but yet they encourage them to come down there; if they make it through immigration it’s fine and good, but once they get caught there is no repercussion for that employer,” he said.

“As a country we have to protect our own nationals in applying pressure to these member states to either adjust or we also have a stringent entrance application.”l

Officials reported that at least five residents were buried in a landslide, and rescue efforts are continuing in communities hard hit by the disaster.

According to initial reports, five houses were destroyed, but officials fear this is likely to rise.

The disaster comes even as the battered country struggles to get back on its feet following the passage of Hurricane Matthew some nine months ago.

Some 578 people were killed and thousands were injured during the passage of that storm.

Six years earlier, Haiti was struck by a catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake, which left the country in ruins on January 12, 2010.

This is another concern for Haitian nationals in the U.S. who are already dealing with the recent news that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) will end on January 22, 2018. Elected officials and community advocates are fighting to get this deadline extended further.

Clearly, Haiti is not ready to receive returning nationals after this latest setback.l

PM Hon. Holness

Haiti Has Been Hit By More Tragedy

ORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti: Torrential rains leave yet another mark on Haiti. Although the impact was nowhere near the scale of the destruction caused by Hurricane Matthew last year, torrential rains on Wednesday left a trail of death and damage in the country.

One person is reported dead and scores have been injured, including five in critical condition.

The heavy downpours hammered Archaie, located north of the capital Port-au-Prince, triggering landslides.

Several houses were destroyed.

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TIME FOR ACTION

The Trump/Pence Regime Must Go!

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BY CARL DIX

ome July 15, 2017, in cities across the country, DEMONSTRATE! In the name of humanity, We REFUSE to Accept a Fascist America!

From RefuseFascism’s Call to Action: “The Trump/Pence Regime is a Fascist Regime, not insult or exaggeration, this is what it is. For the future of humanity and the planet, we, the people, must drive this regime out.

“Fascism is not just a gross combination of horrific reactionary policies. It is a qualitative change in how society is governed. Fascism foments and relies on xenophobic nationalism, racism, misogyny, and the aggressive re-institution of oppressive ‘traditional values.’ In Trump’s election campaign he encouraged and fed on the threat and use of violence to build a movement and come to power. In his inaugural address he pledged allegiance only to this movement. What is crucial to understand is that once in power fascism essentially

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quipping the Caribbean American millennial community with targeted outreach and educational programs helps to foster positive outcomes culturally and socially. This generation is fortunate to have access to diverse resources in the Caribbean community, to help them facilitate their academic, social and vocational skills. Here are few beneficial resources one can tap into.

Indo Caribbean Alliance (ICA) This organization provides year-round services and supports to foster higher educational goals including SAT prep and college prep workshops. ICA is a strong voice in the community raising awareness about political, human and

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 eliminates traditional democratic rights.

“Even as the Trump/Pence Regime is moving fast, they have not yet fully consolidated their regime, or, as yet, been able to implement their full program.

But, this is their objective and it is very possible. It might only take a single serious crisis—international or domestic— for this regime to drop the hammer. We do not have much time.

“Let it not be said that we did not move

heaven and earth to drive out this regime.

This must be a moment in history when millions stand together with conviction and courage, overcoming fear and uncertainty, to resist and say NO! Not just for ourselves, but in the name of humanity.”

RefuseFascism.org 917 407 1286 @RefuseFascism on Facebook, Instagraml

Caribbean American Resources for Millennial Population

BY JENNIFER V. MAHARAJH

TEAM

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ethical issues effecting the Caribbean American population. The organization is committed to empowering the Caribbean culture and its values with cultural events, diverse initiatives and more. http://www.indocaribbean.org/

Caribbean American Center of New York (CACNY) This non-profit organizations aims to enhance the lives of immigrants, minorities and other groups by empowering them with information and education.

They provide educational and counseling workshops, access to job training resources, access to healthy living tools, and awareness on current issues that impact the quality of life of community member, in an effort to create an integrated solution. http://www.caribbeancenterny.org/

Caribbean Culture Theatre Embodying the Caribbean culture to its deepest roots, this is where creativity thrives. Arts, literature, poetry, music and dance are brought to life at this magical place and all walks of life can engage, explore and absorb the Caribbean heritage. The theatre hosts events that encourage youth to learn about Caribbean pioneers, scholars and influencers, while giving them access to a rare opportunity to express their own creativity.

Use these resources to your advantage to build, grow and learn within your cultures and diversely. Share them with friends and family and become a leader in enacting positive change.

Facebook:@caaribbeantheatrel

Contributors Carl Dix Candace Bahr Ginita Wall Tatyana Bellamy-Walker Janet Howard Jennifer V. Maharajh Michelle J. New. PhD Walter Ewing : Email: cariaweekly@aol.com Telephone: 718-771-0988

Website: www.cawnyc.com

Ask the lawyer on Facebook

Figeroux & Associates

Feel the warmth of the Caribbean on your fingertips. Connect. Visit

our website at www.cawnyc.com for daily news and more!

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CIVIL RIGHTS

Oppose H.R. 2581, the “Verify First Act of 2017”

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BY JANET HOWARD

anita Gupta, President & CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, wrote a letter in opposition to H.R. 2581, the “Verify First Act of 2017.”

This legislation is based on a faulty premise about immigrants unlawfully obtaining certain health care subsidies, and its enactment would endanger public health. She urges you to vote against it.

H.R. 2581 would amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), as well as the proposed “American Health Care Act,” to prevent any health insurance marketplace enrollee from obtaining premium tax credits until any questions about their immigration or citizenship status have been fully resolved. The author of H.R. 2581 has alleged that approximately 500,000 undocumented immigrants have obtained premium tax credits since the ACA was first implemented. This allegation is based on a misinterpretation of a 2016 report by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

The report in question found that

500,000 people who received premium credits were later disqualified because their citizenship or immigration status could not be verified. But these disqualifications occurred at a time when there were significant problems with the verification process, so the statistic sheds little light on how many of the individuals in question were actually undocumented immigrants. Given that very few undocumented immigrants wish to draw much attention to themselves, especially on the record to federal agencies, they are highly unlikely to sign up for ACA coverage or the associated tax premium benefits.

While there have been significant improvements in the verification process, resulting in far fewer enrollees being disqualified for failure to establish citizenship or immigration status, there are still many people — more often citizens than immigrants — who face delays in establishing their eligibility for insurance coverage under the ACA due to widespread errors in Social Security databases. Because the overwhelming majority of enrollees in the marketplace rely on premium tax credits to help them pay for their insurance premiums, any delays in those benefits are highly likely

Gupta

to result in delays in coverage, with potentially serious consequences.

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released the following statement on H.R. 2581, the Verify First Act, which imposes restrictions on immigrants buying health insurance through the marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act. The bill passed by a vote of 238 to 184. Congresswoman Clarke voted “no.”

“We have witnessed a series of attacks on immigrant families from Donald Trump and his followers in Congress, from the Muslim Ban to needlessly burdensome requirements for visa applicants. Today, those attacks have extended into health care, as Republicans are

Clarke

now claiming – without any evidence – that immigrants who are not eligible for tax credits to buy health insurance are receiving those subsidies. H.R. 2581 directly contradicts the purpose of the Affordable Care Act, which was intended to allow all eligible families to access health care. Their false claims are an insult to the hardworking immigrant families who contribute enormously to our economy and our civil society. As the daughter of immigrants, I reject this caricature.”

For these reasons, we urge you to vote against H.R. 2581. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact either Ms Gupta or Rob Randhava, Senior Counsel, at (202) 466-3311.l

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MONEY MATTERS

Money Talks... Love Listens T

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BY CANDACE BAHR, CEA, CDFA

his summer, as wedding bells ring for hordes of happy, hopeful newlyweds, my husband and I are celebrating our 29th anniversary. We’ve learned a lot over the years, and we wish all the new kids on the block as much happiness and good fortune as we’ve enjoyed. We especially wish them the will and wisdom to talk openly, honestly, and lovingly about money.

How important is money talk? Very.

When asked to name the biggest problem area in their relationship, more couples cite fighting about money than any other subject.

Money is, indeed, a touchy subject.

Everyone has an emotional relationship with money that starts long before they’re old enough to say, “I do.”

Couples who don’t explore their individual money styles, habits, and foibles— and share them with love and compassion—soon find themselves on thin ice.

Getting together on the subject of money is vital for a happy, healthy marriage. Both partners need to feel confident and comfortable in dealing with financial matters. Marriage is teamwork, and partners need to trust and support one another while they work to build a secure and prosperous future.

Here are a few ideas my spouse and I suggest for making your money talks peaceful, pleasant, and productive:

Decide together what you want Talk about your financial priorities. What are your hopes and dreams? When you disagree, step back and try to understand your partner’s point of view. Establish your goals, short and long term, then list the steps you need to take to achieve them.

Balance the financial power in your relationship Discuss the roles that each of you will play in earning, managing, and spending

money. However you divvy up the financial duties, make sure you review your finances together and both know how to carry out all the necessary tasks. Talk about how you feel in the roles you choose.

Learn about finances together Work together to develop financial knowledge and money management skills. If either of you lacks knowledge about money matters, make the effort to master the basics and boost your confidence. Both of you should have a clear idea of how you earn, spend, and save your money.

Accept your own imperfections and your partner’s, too Don’t try to change the past, spend the same money twice, or make your partner into a different person. Fortunately, in most situations, there are lots of right money decisions and very few really wrong ones. Compassion, understanding, honesty, and trust will help you create a happy financial partnership.

Keep an open mind and an open heart when you and your honey talk about money. Love knows how to listen!.l Reprinted with permission. Candace Bahr, CEA, CDFA is a co-founder of WIFE.org

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6

ISLAND FOCUS: SAINT LUCIA For the Saint Lucia Citizenship by American Investment: Leading the Way Boys & Girls

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BY CARIBBEAN NEWS NOW WRITER

ASTRIES, St Lucia: The restructured Saint Lucian citizenshipby-investment program (CIP) is now the most attractive and efficient in the world. That’s the view of a leading regional lawyer with offices in London.

It is also the best value on the market, costing just US$100,000 for a single applicant.

“The program has been revitalized,” he said. “The government is paying a guaranteed commission to all registered agents promoting the US$100,000 donation option. For the first time a Caribbean government is treating all agents fairly and not just reserving the benefit for a select few.”

Recently, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet dispelled some of the myths about the country’s program. He confirmed that individuals naturalized through the country’s CIP have the same rights as Saint Lucia-born citizens. He also said that citizenship is transferable to both wives and children, Investment Migration Insider reported.

“If you obtain citizenship through the CIP and later get married, your spouse

If you obtain citizenship through the CIP and later have children, your descendants can apply for citizenship as well. can apply for citizenship,” he told a conference in Geneva. “If you obtain citizenship through the CIP and later have children, your descendants can apply for citizenship as well.”

Not only is the program the best value for money, but processing efficiencies mean that it is now one of the quickest.

The prime minister also announced that the government will now accept donations in currencies other than the US dollar to expedite applications.

Chastanet also disclosed plans for opening a Saint Lucian residence by investment program. The scheme would enable successful applicants to settle permanently in Saint Lucia and to apply for

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!

citizenship after five years. Residents obtaining permanent residency through this program would be taxed at a very low, non-domiciled tax rate.

This is thought to be a very attractive option because Saint Lucia is one of the best developed of the Caribbean islands, with an international airport and wellfunctioning infrastructure, along with its glorious beaches and tropical rainforests.

Saint Lucia has a mature tourism industry and is the most developed economy of any of the Caribbean countries offering CIP. Saint Lucia is an inviting place for investors to take advantage of this growth potential.l

I

was born British to a Senegalese mother and a Grenadian father — but I live in America. My song American Boy has been streamed over 100 million times, and I am proud to say that I am an immigrant.

That’s why I’m so excited that you’re one of the thousands of people who has signed on to show you stand with immigrants during this year’s Immigrant Heritage Month.

Now it’s up to those of us like you and me who have taken this stand for immigrants to help spread awareness of this important month.

I’m getting involved right now to use my voice to help spread the word about Immigrant Heritage Month.

But your voice is important, too. If you want the people in your life to know why you stood up, you’ll have to be the one who tells them.

This June, all kinds of people — individuals, companies, and public leaders —are sharing stories of the crucial ways that diverse communities enrich our society, and are taking action in support of immigrants in America.

Thank you for being a part of this.— Estellel

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.

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

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CARIBBEAN STAR

Cicely Tyson: A Living Legend acting in Off-Broadway productions, and the following decade she appeared in several short-lived Broadway shows.

She won minor roles in a few feature films before portraying Portia in the 1968 film version of Carson McCullers's The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter.

Because she was committed to presenting only positive images of black women, Tyson did not have steady work in film and television. Her next notable role was as Rebecca Morgan in the popular and critically acclaimed film, Sounder (1972), for which she received an Academy Award nomination for best actress. In 1974 she appeared in perhaps her best-known role, that of the title character in the television drama The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, adapted from the eponymous novel by Ernest J. Gaines. Her performance as the 110-year-old former slave whose life is depicted up through the civil rights movement of the 1960s won Tyson two Emmy Awards.

Tyson subsequently took on supporting roles in the television miniseries, Roots (1977; based on Alex Haley's book) and The Women of Brewster Place (1989; based on Gloria Naylor's novel) before winning another Emmy for her performance in the TV movie, Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All (1994). She

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une is Caribbean-American Heritage Month. We have many Caribbean stars who shine brightly; like diamonds in the sky as Bajan superstar, Rihanna sings. Some are born on Caribbean soil, while others are of Caribbean parentage. The bottom line, if you are of the Caribbean, you are Caribbean. We highlight a living legend: Cicely Tyson, an American model and actress noted for her vivid portrayals of strong African American women. Tyson, the daughter of immigrants from the Caribbean island of Nevis, grew up in a devoutly religious household in Harlem.

Discovered by a fashion editor at Ebony magazine, she quickly rose to the top of the modeling world. In 1957 she began

then starred as the title character in a 1998 television adaptation of Haley's Mama Flora's Family. Tyson's additional feature film credits include Fried Green Tomatoes (1991), Hoodlum (1997), The Help (2011), and several popular movies directed by Tyler Perry. In 2013, she returned to Broadway, after nearly 30 years, to play the lead in a revival of Horton Foote's The Trip to Bountiful; her performance earned her a Tony Award.

She also starred in the 2014 television adaptation of the play.

Apart from her acting career, Tyson is known for her relationship with jazz musician Miles Davis (married 198188). She was honored by the Congress of Racial Equality, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the National Council of Negro Women. In 1977, she was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame. She was named a Kennedy Center honoree in 2015. The following year Tyson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Beautiful, talented and elegant, we salute you Cicely Tyson, living legend.l Source: https://www.britannica.com

Fly Jamaica Opens Brooklyn Office

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ly Jamaica recently opened its second office in New York; now in Brooklyn located at 1397 Nostrand Avenue. The airline has Guyanese couple, Captain Paul Reece, the Chairman and CEO and Ms. Roxanne Reece its Managing Director at its helm.

Their daughter, Kayla Reece is the company’s Marketing Director.

Mrs. Reece disclosed that the rationale behind opening the Brooklyn office was to target yet another area where Caribbean people are located in their numbers. “We found that there was a need for our people to access our services easily.”

The opening ceremony was blessed by religious leaders of the Christian, Muslim and Hindu communities.

Following the official opening segment, there was a reception held at Trelawni Place on Utica Avenue.

Speaking at the forum, Captain Reece said, “This is a very important step in the expansion of Fly Jamaica Airways.” He added that the airline vision was to always “provide good services to our customers.” In achieving this goal he said, “we really appreciate the support from everyone…everybody here and overseas have been supportive and we hope the support continues.”l

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8

Coconut Oil/

continued from page 1

on saturated fat, showing coconut oil increased LDL ("bad") cholesterol in seven out of seven controlled trials.

Researchers didn't see a difference between coconut oil and other oils high in saturated fat, like butter, beef fat and palm oil. In fact, 82% of the fat in coconut oil is saturated, according to the data — far beyond butter (63%), beef fat (50%) and pork lard (39%).

"Because coconut oil increases LDL cholesterol, a cause of CVD [cardiovascular disease], and has no known offsetting favorable effects, we advise against the use of coconut oil," the AHA said in the Dietary Fats and Cardiovascular Disease advisory.

Frank Sacks, lead author on the report, said he has no idea why people think coconut oil is healthy. It's almost 100% fat. Past weight loss studies might be responsible.

“The reason coconut oil is so popular for weight loss is partly due to my research on medium chain triglycerides," Marie-Pierre St-Onge, associate professor of nutritional medicine at Cornell University Medical School, told TIME in April. "Coconut oil has a higher proportion of medium-chain triglycerides than most other fats or oils, and my research showed eating medium-chain triglycerides may increase the rate of metabolism more than eating long-chain triglycerides.”

The problem is, St-Onge's research used a "designer oil" packed with 100% MCTs. Traditional coconut oil only contains about 13 to 15%. Another study she published showed smaller doses of MCTs doesn't help with weight loss in overweight adolescents.

The AHA recommends eating no more than 6% of saturated fat as part of total daily calories for those who need lower cholesterol. And experts stress that fat is still an essential part of a healthy, balanced diet. We shouldn't cut out too much. Fat is a source of essential fatty acids and helps the body absorb vitamins, such as A, D and E. Victoria Taylor from the British Heart Foundation said: "To eat well for your heart health it is not just about reducing fat but reducing specific types of fat and taking care over what these are replaced with — unsaturated fats and whole grains, rather than sugars and refined carbohydrates.

"Any change should be viewed in the context of a whole diet approach. The traditional Mediterranean diet has benefits for a range of risk factors for heart

Earn extra income...

Enjoy perks!

Before you trash your coconut oil, know that saturated fat is a loaded term. Plus coconut oil can still be an effective moisturizer or hair conditioner.

disease, not just cholesterol levels.

"We recommend replacing the saturated fats in the diet with unsaturated fats —using oils instead of butter and choosing foods like avocado, oily fish, nuts and seeds instead of foods high in saturated fats like cakes, biscuits, chocolate and fatty meat."

Before you trash your coconut oil, know that saturated fat is a loaded term.

While the AHA warns against it, people who cut saturated fat out of their diet might not necessarily lower their heart disease risk, a 2015 BMJ review suggested. That's because some people fill the void with sugar, white flour and empty calories. Also, some fat is important to help bodies absorb nutrients from other foods. Many have said butter has gotten a bad reputation.

Still, it might not be a bad idea to opt for vegetable oils or olive oil, Stacks said. Plus, coconut oil can still be an effective moisturizer or hair conditioner.

"You can put it on your body, but don’t put it in your body," Sacks said.l

HOT TOPIC

Rihanna & Bolt Top List of Highest Earning Celebrities

N

ew York: Barbadian superstar Rihanna and Jamaica’s sprint sensation Usain Bolt have done the Caribbean proud on Forbes’ latest list of the 100 highest-paid celebrities, bagging the 77th and 88th spots respectively.

Rihanna, who reportedly raked in US$36 million between June 1, 2016 and June 1, 2017, tied with Fernando Alonso and Sean Hannity, beating luminaries like Bon Jovi, Billy Joel, Dr Dre, and Florida Georgia Line to the post.

Bolt, who is said to have earned US$34.2 million over the same period, sprinted ahead of such A-listers as Gareth Bale, Britney Spears, Chance The Rapper, and Katy Perry.

Women made up just 16 percent of this year’s list, a possible reflection of the gender pay gap. This was particularly noticeable in the film industry, which had 10 male actors on the list but not a single actress.

Along with the Caribbean presence, the list included 12 celebrities from the UK and four from Canada. Twenty percent of the celebrities were European and five percent were from Asia.l

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9

FAMILY MATTERS

When Fighting Goes Too Far

A

REVIEWED BY MICHELLE J. NEW, PHd

ll couples argue from time to time. They might disagree about important things like finances, careers, or major family decisions. Or they might disagree about little things that don't seem that important — like what's for dinner or what time someone gets home.

Sometimes parents stay calm when they disagree. They allow each other a chance to listen and to talk. But many times when parents disagree, things can get heated.

It can be easy to jump to conclusions when you hear parents arguing. Thoughts might pop into your head like, "Does this mean they don't love each other anymore?" Or, "Are they going to get a divorce?" But arguments don't always mean the worst. Most of the time, they're just a way to let off steam when parents have a bad day, don't feel well, or are under a lot of stress. Like you, when parents get upset they might yell, cry, or say things they don't really mean.

It's OK for Parents to Argue Sometimes It's natural for people to have different feelings, opinions, or approaches to things. Talking about these differences is a first step in working toward a solution.

People in a family need to be able to tell each other how they feel and what they

Sometimes when

parents fight, there's

too much yelling and screaming, name

calling, and too many harsh things said.

think, even when they disagree.

Most people who live together in a family argue about small things — like if the way you do something is different from how a brother, sister, or parent does it. Watching how parents resolve differences can give you some important information about how you handle conflict, and how you might handle arguments in the future.

Most of the time, arguments are over quickly, parents apologize and make up, and the family settles back into its usual routine.

When Fighting Goes Too Far Sometimes when parents fight, there's too much yelling and screaming, name calling, and too many harsh things said.

Although some parents may do this, it's not OK to treat people in the family with disrespect, use degrading or insulting language, or yell and scream at them.

Occasionally fighting goes too far and

includes pushing and shoving, throwing things, or hitting. Even if no one is physically hurt, an argument has gone too far when one parent uses threats to try to control the other through fear. It's never OK if a parent does things like these: nthreatens to hurt someone ndestroys the other's property nthreatens to commit suicide nthreatens to leave the other parent nthreatens to report the other parent to protective services

When fights get physical or involve threats, it's usually a sign that the people fighting could do with some help controlling themselves and managing their anger. This may mean speaking to a doctor, therapist, or religious leader or calling a helpline.

What You Can Do If you feel that your parents' fighting is getting too much for you and you're

stressed out about it, it's time to take action. You could try talking to one or both of your parents about their arguing.

They may not even realize how upset you are until you tell them how their arguments affect you. If this doesn't work, you could try talking to another family member to help you figure out what to do — or go to your school counselor or doctor.

Happy, Healthy Families If your family argues from time to time, try not to worry: No family is perfect.

Even in the happiest home, problems come up and people argue. Usually the family members involved get what's bothering them out in the open and talk about it. Hopefully, they reach some compromise or agreement. Everyone feels better and life can get back to normal.

Being part of a family means everyone pitches in and tries to make life better for each other. Arguments happen and that's OK — it's all part of learning how to live with each other and get along. Figuring out how to resolve conflicts by talking things out or learning when other people need their space can help you later in your life, too.l Reprinted with the kind permission of www.kidshealth.otg.

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10

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Marijuana Legalization: How Does It Affect DUI/DWI Law?

S

ummer is here and with it comes BBQ and curry parties and in some instances, smoking pot/weed/marijuana. So, how does this affect Driving Under the Influence (DUI)/Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Law with marijuana legalization?

In November 2016, voters in four states—California,Nevada, Massachusetts, and Maine—approved ballots measures decriminalizing recreational marijuana use. When the new laws go into effect, there will be a total of eight states, plus Washington D.C., where adults can legally use and possess pot without a prescription. (Voters have also now approved medical marijuana in 28 states and the District of Columbia.)

So, how does the legalization of weed affect state DUI/DWI law?

Generally, it has no effect: Most states that have decriminalized marijuana haven’t changed their DUI/DWI laws.

Per Se and Impairment DUIs In most states, there are two types of DUI charge: “impairment” and “per se.” The difference between the two charges is how the prosecution proves the driver was “under the influence.”

With a per se DUI, the prosecution just needs to show that the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or

more. The thinking is that anyone who has a BAC of at least .08% is under the influence and shouldn’t be driving. But most per se laws refer only to alcohol concentration—they don’t prohibit driving with a certain amount drugs in your system. So, a motorist who is under the influence of only marijuana typically can’t be convicted of a per se DUI. Impairment DUI charges, on the other hand, do apply to marijuana use. The focus of impairment laws is on how the drugs or alcohol affected the driver—not on which substance or the actual amount in the driver’s system. And, if the driver is impaired, it doesn’t matter whether the alcohol or drug use was legal. That’s why states haven’t had to change their DUI/DWI laws in the wake of marijuana decriminalization: A driver who ingests marijuana legally—but is impaired—can still be convicted of an of a per se DUI.

Proving Impairment All jurisdictions have an impairment DUI charge. But the degree of impairment the prosecution must prove, in order to get a conviction varies by state.

In Nevada, for instance, prosecutors must prove the defendant, as the result of the drugs or alcohol ingested, was impaired “to a degree that [rendered him or her] incapable of safely driving or exercising actual physical control of a vehicle.” And under Massachusetts law, a person is “under the influence” if the substance ingested by the person “diminished the [person’s] ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.”

“Per Se Marijuana” DUIs A handful of states have adapted the perse-DUI concept to drugged driving. In these states, motorists can be convicted of a per se drug DUI for driving with a certain concentration of drugs in their system. Two of the states that legalized recreational marijuana use—Nevada and Washington—have a “per se Marijuana” DUI charge.

Washington added a per se marijuana provision to its DUI law when it legalized marijuana in 2012. The provision prohibits driving with a concentration of five nanograms or more of THC (the primary

psychoactive ingredient in marijuana) per milliliter of blood. Nevada, on the other hand, had a marijuana per se law prior to when voters decriminalized marijuana in November 2016. Nevada’s law makes it illegal to drive with two or more nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood or ten or more nanograms of THC per milliliter of urine.

Talk to a DUI Attorney The consequences of a DUI conviction are serious, and DUI law varies by state.

If you’ve been arrested for or charged with driving under the influence, get in touch with an experienced DUI lawyer. A qualified DUI attorney can explain how the law applies to the facts of your case and help you decide on the best course of action.

Remember, as a non-citizen, certain arrests are deportable offenses. Please consult with an immigration attorney before taking a plea. You need to be aware of any immigration consquences of taking a plea.l Source: nolo.com This article does not constitute not legal advice. Please consult with an attorney.

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12 #

IMMIGRATION

America Benefits from Growing Economic Clout of DACA Recipients

N

BY WALTER EWING

ow marking its fifth year, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) initiative has been a much-needed lifeline for more than one million young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. DACA was announced by the Obama administration on June 15, 2012. DACA granted a temporary reprieve from deportation, as well as work authorization, to those who qualified.

The DACA initiative was always meant to be a stop-gap measure; something to fill the legislative void until Congress passed either the DREAM Act or a broad-based legalization program for most undocumented immigrants already living in the country.

But with the fifth anniversary comes a level of uncertainty for DACA recipients.

Although President Trump has at times said that anyone brought here in an undocumented status as a child deserves a lasting solution to their plight, he has also repeatedly pledged to get tough on all undocumented immigrants.

The DACA program continues to func-

tion, however, even under the current administration. Statistics released by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reveal that roughly 36,000 young adults have qualified for DACA in 2017, thus far. In addition, 211,000 renewals have been granted.

Nearly 788,000 cases have been approved since DACA began in 2012.

The overwhelming majority of DACA recipients are from Mexico, followed by El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.

The state that is home to most DACA recipients is California, followed by Texas, New York, and Illinois.

Studies have shown that DACA recipients experience an easier transition into adulthood, increased employment and educational opportunities, and are better equipped to contribute to the economy.

The arguments in favor of DACA—and legalization more generally—are not only humanitarian, they are fiscal as well. An April report from the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP) estimated that undocumented young people now enrolled in or eligible for DACA pay roughly $2 billion each year in state and local taxes. Creating a path to citi-

zenship for DACA-eligible youth would increase their state and local tax payments by $505 million—for a total of $2.53 billion a year.

Beyond taxes, there are other social and economic benefits of DACA. As the Cato Institute has pointed out, DACA recipients have already been screened for criminal records. They are not eligible for welfare benefits or subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. They pay their own application processing fees, so the program has no uncompensated administrative costs. And being able to work openly and in the formal economy creates more jobs, fuels innovation, and allows DACA recipients to start families in which their own children have a better shot at success as well.

No matter how you look at it, DACA has been a successful program on both humanitarian and economic grounds. It has enabled its beneficiaries to contribute more to the economy and the treasury, without imposing any net costs on the federal government. In the absence of a legislative solution, DACA recipients should continue to be protected from deportation.l

WE HELP IMMIGRANTS!

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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.

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14 # Trump

P

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

Reverses Obama’s Cuba Policy

resident Donald Trump announced that he is “canceling” President Obama’s policy towards Cuba which was designed to open up U.S./Cuban relations. Fulfilling a promise he [Trump] made on the campaign trail, the changes will include restrictions on travel, doing business with Cuban government of military entities and some commercial trade.

"My administration's policy will be guided by key U.S. national security interests and solidarity with the Cuban people," the directive notes. "I will seek to promote a stable, prosperous, and free country for the Cuban people. To that end, we must ensure that U.S. funds are not channeled to a regime that has failed to meet the most basic requirements of a free and just society." Trump is considering re-imposing limits on banking, travel and the purchase by Americans of Cuban goods, citing human rights abuses by the Castro regime.

Among the changes will be limiting the number of Americans who can travel to the communist country. While tourist travel to Cuba remained illegal under former President Obama's rules, broad exceptions were in place for trips that could be deemed "educational." Trump will tighten those restrictions, while also cracking down on U.S. companies currently operating in Cuba.

The U.S. has had a trade embargo against Cuba for 56 years.

The White House defended its decision in a statement to Politico. "The oppressors of the Cuban people are the Cuban government, who have increased repression on the island against dissidents and Ladies in White since reestablishing diplomatic relations. Prior to that, it was not clear to some if the Obama policy toward Cuba would work; today it is clear that the Obama policy toward Cuba does not," the statement noted.

Trump is expected to market the policy shift as a complete 180-degree shift from the ease back as he works to dismantle former President Barack Obama’s hallmark foreign policy achievements. But he won’t be severing diplomatic ties with Cuba, ending commercial flights to the country, or closing down the U.S. Embassy in Havana that reopened in

IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW?

2015. He also won’t bring back the socalled “wet foot, dry foot” policy that allowed Cuban refugees who make it to American soil to become permanent residents. Obama ended that policy in his final days in office.

Trump’s Cuba policy offers a glimpse into the chaotic policymaking process inside the administration, where standard interagency processes are often cast aside and Trump and his close coterie of White House advisors run major foreign policy decisions out of the White House with little input from the State Department.

Multiple sources told Foreign Policy that the administration conducted an intensive interagency review process on a new Cuba policy that Trump ultimately spurned. In early May, the review was sent to Trump recommending he keep in place Obama’s drive to normalize relations with Cuba. He nixed that idea after

promising on the campaign trail to cater a new policy to Cuban-American hardliners.

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement on Donald Trump’s reversal of President Barack Obama’s policy of opening relations between the United States and Cuba. Trump announced that he will limit travel by American citizens to Cuba and restrict financial transactions with many sectors of the island-nation’s economy.

“President Obama worked to transcend past mistakes and build a future defined by the common interests and aspirations of the United States and Cuba.

Collaboration on issues such as family reunification, human rights, the interdiction of narcotics, and investment offer enormous benefits to the people of both nations. Now, Donald Trump wants to undermine those achievements, and turn toward a policy of mutual mistrust. The vast majority of Republicans and Democrats understand that the Cold War policy separating families and restricting economic development has outlived its usefulness. I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives and the Senate to join in an effort to restore President Obama’s practical, common-sense approach.”l

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15

DIASPORA CONCERNS

'Dreamers' to Stay in U.S. for Now, but Long-Term Fate Is Unclear

O

n June 15, the 5th anniversary of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) the Trump administration announced that DACA would remain in place.

President Donald Trump had said during his campaign that he would repeal what he said were unconstitutional executive actions taken by President Barack Obama, including DACA and Deferred Action for Parents of Americans, or DAPA, the program protecting undocumented parents. However, in the course of the campaign,Trump had shown some ambiguity on what action he would take toward so-called 'Dreamers,' immigrants who arrived or stayed in the U.S. as young children and without legal permission. Trump had once said he wanted to treat Dreamers with heart.

But in the context of Trump's immigration crackdown, some said the decision was small consolation. Undocumented immigrants covered by deportation protections issued in 2012, said they were relieved that President Trump will keep them in place. But they're also worried that he could still eliminate the program in the future.

Jose Manuel Santoyo, a graduate student at Southern Methodist University in Texas, said more clarity would be wel-

comed. Santoyo, a Mexican immigrant, is on his third two-year renewal of DACA, and has been a strong advocate for young immigrants who call themselves Dreamers and, more recently, the Dacamented.

"What I am understanding is he, is just not taking away DACA. The 2012 program continues in place," he said.

Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham, (DN.M.), called the actions "deceitful" and "another effort to keep immigrant families feeling uncomfortable about their place in America." She said while leaving the DACA program in place, the administration's enforcement actions and policy decisions "continue to create fear and anxiety in immigrant communities."

Legal minds lamented that, "it's no surprise that Trump would quickly walk back the preservation of DACA. It appears that administration was trying to "viciously pit 800,000 Dreamers against the rest of the 11 million undocumented immigrants."

It is important to note that the administration's decision to keep DACA for now, does not preclude Trump from deciding later to terminate DACA. The immigrant rights group, America’s Voice, criticized the Trump decisions, saying it "simply reiterates the status quo."

"DACA remains in place — for now — but it’s clear that they are using it as cover to deport everyone else,” Lynn Tramonte, deputy director of America’s Voice, in a statement. “What’s more, this administration has been cynically wielding its enforcement authorities over certain DACA recipients. This is a classic move used by abusers to keep their targets — in this case DACA recipients — feeling vulnerable and 'in check.'"

The change of administrations meant the states were suing an administration that did not support DAPA and essentially made the lawsuit moot. The Trump administration, after numerous court extensions, had finally run up against a deadline to decide whether to continue

defending DAPA. Homeland Security Secretary, John Kelly said in a department statement that the administration was rescinding the program, because there was “no credible path forward to litigate the currently enjoined policy."

Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, noted the decision to rescind Obama's executive order on DAPA came on the 35th anniversary of the Supreme Court ruling in Plyler v. Doe, a landmark case regarding the rights of immigrants. Saenz said making the announcement on the anniversary of the case demonstrated "its characteristic obtuseness with respect to civil rights history." l

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Can I Qualify for a Mortgage After Declaring Bankruptcy?

Yes — and Here's How

I

t may feel like a very daunting task to consider buying a home after you've declared bankruptcy, and there's no doubt that it's an uphill battle.

Fortunately, while you'll have hard work ahead, there are things you can do to make your dream of home ownership a possibility. Whether you've just declared bankruptcy or some time has passed, here are some things you should consider before getting into the market.

Wait It Out It might not be what you want to hear, but it's unfortunately the case that you'll have to wait at least two years before you purchase a home following bankruptcy. Since lenders will not want to take the risk on someone who has proven to have poor financial habits,

they will require a waiting period for the credit risk you pose to improve. While this may seem like a long time, take the opportunity to improve your financial habits so you can be amply prepared when the time comes.

Build Up Your Credit To own a home, you'll need to develop some solid financial habits, and that means getting on top of your finances even in times when it feels like you have no leverage. Ensure you get a copy of your credit report and, if you notice any errors, reach out to the credit bureau for corrections. It's also a good idea to consider applying for a secured credit card and ensure that you pay all your bills on time. While it might feel like a lengthy task, developing good habits will have a positive impact on your credit over time.

Prepare for Your Payment When it comes to a poor credit history, you'll need to pull out every stop you can

3 Classic Credit Mistakes to Avoid If You're Trying to Secure a Mortgage Loan

T

he mortgage application process can be fraught with a lot of stress on its own, but if you've experienced issues with your credit in the past it can be even more taxing.

While there may be a lot of things you may not be aware of when it comes to their impact on your credit, here are some things to watch out for if you're planning to purchase a home in the short-term future:

Applying For Extra Credit Whether you've just been offered a great new deal by a department store or you're not even thinking about it, new credit cards can pop up with deals that are quite enticing in the moment. Unfortunately, applying for new credit can signal to lenders that you've run out of credit on your other cards. Not only that, it will also have an adverse impact on your credit score each time you apply for new credit. If you're consid-

Smart homeowners and first-time homebuyers read this paper! to that convince lenders that you're a solid financial bet. Instead of wasting the time, write up a budget for yourself and save a sizeable sum for your down payment each month. It's possible that 10 or 15% down will do, but a 20% payment will help you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI) and will go further in convincing lenders of your reliability.

It's more than a little disheartening to have to deal with bankruptcy, but by waiting it out and developing good financial habits in the interim, you'll be well on your way to buying a home. If you're currently preparing to purchase, you may want to contact one of our mortgage professionals for more information.Call us at 888-6706791.n INSIDE: 6 Tips that Will Help You Get the Most Out of Your Home Inspection.....................................2 Single Women Are Buying Homes Faster than Men...........................3 Saving for a Mortgage Down Payment? 4 Tips to Help You...............................................4

ering a mortgage soon, it's a good idea to hold off on any additions to your wallet.

Not Paying Your Bills It may seem straightforward enough that not paying your bills is going to land you in hot water with your credit score, but many people think paying the minimum at any time will do. The truth is that if you want to keep your credit in line and improve your odds, it's important to pay your

minimum before the due date and always pay your bills. The only thing deferring payments will do is add marks against your credit, and this will be damaging come application time.

Don't Avoid Your Credit Report Many people who have a poor credit history are aware of the situation, but continued on page 3

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2

EQUITY SMART REALTY

6 Tips That Will Help You Get the Most Out of Your Home Inspection

A

home inspection may be one of the last things that needs to be done before the deal is sealed. However, it's very important to have a proper inspection done so that you can ensure your offering price is appropriate for the home you're getting. If you're prepping for an inspection soon, here are some things you'll want to consider beforehand.

Choose a Good Inspector Like a good agent, the right inspector is going to have expertise in what they do and know what to look for. They will not only find the small fix-ups, they'll be able to highlight the potentially huge issues that may arise down the road.

Prepare Your Papers Your inspector may be able to do their job well on their own, but if you've noticed any issues when you've visited the house, it's important to address them. While they may amount to nothing, an inspector will be able to clear up any confusion.

Ask the Questions Whether you're experienced with real estate or not, ask the questions you want to ask

whether or not they make you feel like a novice. Even if the answer is simple, it will give you the information you're looking for.

Get the Lowdown It might seem like a bridge too far, but talking to neighbors in the area can give you a good sense of the overall upkeep of the home. While it's unlikely you'll get any unfortunate tales, people in the area may be able to illuminate you on the house's history.

Partake In the Inspection It's good enough for many a homeowner to get a written report, but going along to see the house can facilitate conversation and may give you insights into what to watch out for. It may also mean you have a clearer idea of any potential issues.

Facilitate the Discussion If there are significant issues with the home, it may be worth talking with the inspector about dealing directly with the contractor.

While this may or may not be necessary, it's

a good way to ensure any problems will be effectively communicated and can be rectified.

A home inspection may be par for the course, but by asking the right questions and being involved, you can ensure you'll get the most out of your inspection. If you're currently on the market for a home, you may want to contact one of our real estate professionals for more information.

Schedule an appointment today. Call 888670-6791. n

EQUITY SMART

Did You Know: Single Women Are Buying Homes Faster Than Single Men

W

ith low interest rates and uncertainty as to where the real estate market will be in the next six months, many people are opting into ownership and investing in a home. Interestingly, according to the National Association of Realtors, approximately 17 percent of homebuyers in the United States last year were women, which is a much higher percentage than the 7 percent of single men who invested in a home. While the statistics may be interesting enough on their own, here are some of the reasons why women may be opting in.

Single Parent Security The numbers don't lie, and it's a fact that there are a much higher number of single mothers in the United States than fathers, which makes home ownership that much more of a benefit. With low interest rates, it's common sense that many single mothers will be flocking towards the housing market to find stable housing for their family in a market that may fluctuate in the coming months.

Making a Lifestyle Choice The days are long gone of women having to invest in a home when they get married, and for many women being single is a very

popular lifestyle choice. This means that many single women are choosing to invest on their own terms and at their own time so that they can reap the benefits of home ownership. As Jessica Lautz of the National Association of Realtors says, "They really value home ownership, and they're willing to give up a lot to have a home of their own."

It's In the Numbers There are certainly more than a few reasons why single women are flocking to the real estate market, but demographics are changing rapidly. While it was once the case that most people were married, or would marry, more single women are opting out of mar-

riage and opening up a wider market for single-person home purchases. Given the low interest rates and the increasing number of women choosing to be single, purchasing a home offers a solid bet and a financial boon.

With a home offering up the benefit of security and the advantage of being a good financial choice, it's no surprise that increasingly women are turning to home ownership on their own. If you're contemplating purchasing a home of your own, you may want to contact one of our local real estate professionals for more information about opportunities in your area at 888-670-6791.n

3

Classic Credit Mistakes/ continued from page 1

they're also unwilling to address it. While it may be difficult to approach your credit report if you've had some hiccups in the past, it's important to know what point you're working forward from so you can move beyond it. Instead of ignoring it, get a copy of your credit report, and review the numbers.

Not only will this enable you to address any errors, it means you'll be facing your issues head on.

There are several factors that can adversely affect your mortgage application, but by avoiding new credit and paying your bills on time, you can have a positive impact on the result.

The average credit score among home buyers using mortgage loans was 722 in April 2017, according to the latest data. But you don’t necessarily need a FICO score of 722 to qualify for a home loan.

In April 2017, home buyers who successfully closed on their mortgage loans had an average FICO credit score of 722. This is based on the latest “Origination Insight Report” published by Ellie Mae, a company that creates mortgage loan origination software.

Don’t fret if you don’t have a FICO credit score of 722. There is a loan program avail able for those with a FICO credit score of 500. If you're currently on the market for a new home, you may want to contact our local mortgage professional for more information at 888-670-6791.n

4

Saving for a Mortgage Down Payment? 4 Tips to Help You

HOME OWNERSHIP

F

or most people, the idea of saving more money each month is enough of a burden without having to think about investing in a home. A down payment, however, will require a lot more saving know-how and a lot more in liquid assets in order to be able to buy. If you're trying to find ways to save a bit more each month, here are some sure-fire tips for raising the extra funds:

Re-consider Your Commute Outside of rent, there are few things that will cost as much money as owning your own vehicle, so instead of holding on to yours, you may want to consider putting it up for sale. While a vehicle costs a lot in gas, there are also costs for maintenance, insurance and parking that quickly add up.

By foregoing this expense, you can easily save significantly!

Stick to Your Budget It might sound like a silly tip, but actually sticking to your budget can make a big difference in how much you'll save. While most people have a few rules to live by, writing down every receipt and monitoring the things you overspend on can make a marked impact on your surplus when all's

said and done.

Cut Down on Coffee & Lunch With the hustle of everyday life, many people run out for coffee or lunch every day and forget that these costs add up over time.

Instead of spending $5 or $10 here and there, take your coffee to go and make your lunches at the start of each week day.. It may not seem like much, but this can easily add up to hundreds in just a short time.

Change Your Phone Plan Many people think that all of the conveniences that come along with a smart phone are a necessity, but data can come at a high

price and it may not be worth paying. Instead of paying a high monthly phone bill, talk to your provider about what deals they can offer you and what you can cut back on.

It may seem small at first, but it will add up to a lot by the year's end.

It can seem insurmountable to try and save up enough for a down payment, but the little things that you spend on each day can easily add up. If you're currently on the market for a home and are considering your saving options, you may want to contact one of our mortgage professionals for more information at 888-670-6791.n

Call Equity Smart Realty at 888-670-6791 for a FREE consultation.

Diabetes Special

Diabetes is the biggest KILLER in our community. More than cancer.

Over 700,000 New Yorkers have diabetes — almost a third don't know they have it. Forty percent of elementary school children are overweight, which puts them at risk for diabetes.

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause blindness, end-stage renal disease—which may require dialysis—and lower extremity amputations in adults.

It doesn’t matter who you are—a Borough President, an Oscarwinning actress, a pop star, a lawyer, a grandparent, a Prime Minister, a legend—you can get diabetes.

Take control now! Manage your diabetes.

Read our special issue!

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2

CONVERSATIONS

What Is Prediabetes?

P

rediabetes is a condition that comes before diabetes. It means your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but aren’t high enough to be called diabetes. There are no clear symptoms of prediabetes. You can have it and not know it. If I have prediabetes, what does it mean? It means you might get type 2 diabetes soon or down the road. You are also more likely to get heart disease or have a stroke. The good news is that you can take steps to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes. How can I delay or prevent type 2 diabetes?

You may be able to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes with: ■ Physical activity, like walking.

■ Weight loss if needed — losing even a few pounds will help.

■ Taking medication, if your doctor prescribes it. If you have it, these steps may bring your blood glucose to a normal range. But you are still at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes.

Regular physical activity can delay or prevent diabetes Being active is one of the best ways to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes. It can also lower your weight and blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. Ask your health care team about safe ways of being active for you.

One way to be more active is to try to walk for half an hour, five days a week.

If you don’t have 30 minutes all at once, take shorter walks during the day.

Weight loss can delay or prevent diabetes. Reaching a healthy weight can help you a lot. If you’re overweight, any weight loss, even 7% of your weight (for example, losing about 15 pounds if you weigh 200) may prevent or delay your risk for diabetes.

Make healthy choices Track your progress Write down what and how much you eat and drink for a week. Writing things down makes you more aware of what you’re eating and helps with weight loss.

Here are some steps you can take to change the way you eat. Small steps add up to big rewards.

■ Cut back on regular soft drinks and juice. Have water or try calorie-free drinks.

■ Choose lower-calorie snacks, such as popcorn instead of potato chips.

■ Eat salad with low-fat dressing and at least one vegetable at dinner every night.

■ Choose fruit instead of cake, pie, or cookies. Cut calories by cutting serving sizes.

■ Eat smaller servings of your usual foods.

■ Share your main course with a friend or family member when you eat out. Or

take half home for later.

Cut down on bad fat ■ Roast, broil, grill, steam, or bake instead of deep-frying or pan-frying.

■ Use a small amount of oil for cooking instead of butter, lard or shortening.

■ Try plant based proteins like beans instead of meat and chicken.

■ Choose fish at least twice a week ■ Eat lean meats such as the round or loin cuts, or chicken without the skin.

■ Cut back on high fat and processed meats like hot dogs, sausage and bacon.

■ Eat less high-fat desserts such as ice cream, cake with frosting and cookies.

■ Avoid margarine and other foods with trans fat.

Summing It Up Diabetes is a serious disease — if you delay or prevent it, you’ll enjoy better

health in the long run.

■ Diabetes is common — but you can reduce your risk by losing a small amount of weight.

■ Changing the way you eat and increasing your activity can delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.

Get checked If you are at increased risk for diabetes, ask your doctor about getting tested at your next visit. Take our risk test at diabetes.org/ risktest to find out if you are at risk. Get started: ■ Be physically active.

■ Make a plan to lose weight.

■ Track your progress.

For more information, visit us at www.diabetes.org or call 1-800-diabetes.l

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

3

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Marrying into Diabetes: A Husband’s Perspective

Are You At Risk?

I

BY DAVID EDELMAN

am married to a beautiful woman with type 1 diabetes. On many days, diabetes has churned the waters in our relationship.

I’ve argued with low blood sugars and lost. What woman can be responsible for being snippy when her blood sugar’s at 35 mg/dl (2 mmol/L)? I’ve watched date night get canceled by an all-day high. My empathy for Elizabeth is spiked with a little anger. But how can I talk about my frustration at diabetes when it’s a trifle next to the boulder that Elizabeth carries?

These feelings sit inside me. They fester.

I try to be strong.

On difficult days, frustration boils over.

Other times I don’t know what to say. I lie there in bed while she has low blood sugar and struggles. I see how much it’s hurting her, how hard it is for her, how bad she feels. I want her to know that I see it, and it tears me up, and I wish there was a way I could share that burden. But instead I say I’m sorry.

The last thing she wants is pity.

I’ve learned a lot about diabetes helping develop Diabetes Daily over the last six years. Yet when it comes to my own relationship with the most important per-

Y

son in my life, I still get it wrong too often.

The challenges faced by those who care about someone with diabetes are rarely discussed. It ends up hurting both the person with diabetes and the person without it. So this year, let’s start a dialogue about ways that people with diabetes and their loved ones can support each other better.

So what can we do to better support each other? Read more about loved ones,

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low blood sugar and spouses at www.diabetesdaily.com.l David Edelman is a passionate diabetes advocate and entrepreneur dedicated to using social technologies to help people live healthier and happier lives.

Reprinted with kind permission of Diabetes Daily. Visit www.diabetes.daily.com

our path to good health just got a lot easier. Just enter some basic health information and the award-winning My Health Advisor on (www.diabetes.org/are-you-at-risk/myhealth-advisor/) will calculate your risk for: ntype 2 diabetes nheart disease nstroke

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4

PERSONAL STORY

ESPN Radio Star Speaks Out On Diabetes

W

BY TATYANA BELLAMY-WALKER

hen Mike Golic, 54, was diagnosed with type two diabetes in 2005, the retired NFL player turned ESPN radio show and television star, knew he needed to recruit a team.

“Get a game plan and a group of people. My doctor was my new head coach, my family were my new teammates,” said Golic in an interview with Caribbean American Weekly. “We all need help. I couldn’t be doing what I’m doing alone. I need my doctor’s game plan and I need my family behind me.”

Both Golic and his father were diagnosed with diabetes in their early 40s.

But unlike his father, Lou, who kept his disease a secret — Mike is an advocate for diabetes prevention and treatment.

“Too many people are embarrassed about this or don’t want too many people to know. But let people know,” Golic said. “My dad kept it to himself. That was his choice to do, but when I was diagnosed in my early 40s I wanted to take a different approach — I wanted to be out and open with it. Listen, don’t deal with this alone,” Golic added.

Stephanie, a certified diabetes expert

said that support groups are vital to a healthy network.

“Your relationship with your [healthcare] provider should feel like a partnership — it’s not a one-way street,” said Stephanie in a video on Icanimagine.com, a website for expert tips and testimonials for diabetes patients.

As an NFL defensive lineman, Golic’s weighed a fit 300 pounds. Golic said he ate a lot of food during this time because he’d burn off the extra calories through exercise. After a knee injury, followed by a contract which terminated his football career—Golic was cut from the Miami Dolphins. When Golic’s football career ended, his diet still reflected his old habits.

“Once I finished playing I ate too much and it wasn’t healthy,” Golic said. “I needed to learn from that. Then I was diagnosed with diabetes and needed to learn the proper portions and getting in that lifestyle.”

“It’s a lifestyle changed,” he added.

Golic eats four to five healthy meals per day. About four years ago, the ESPN radio star also used Nutri-System, a popular prepaid meal plan to drop about 50 pounds. He advises people with diabetes

NY WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

Photo by Stephanie Daniel for Voices of NY

to take control of their treatment plans, recruit a team of supportive family members and have the confidence to speak their mind.

Currently, Golic uses the once-daily pill, Invokana to lower his blood sugar levels. The treatment plan has also helped Golic lose weight.

“I gained the confidence to ask the right questions and talk to my doctor about ways to stay healthy,” Golic.

At the 2017 American Diabetes Association Expo, Golic answered questions regarding his diabetes treatment

plan. Golic tackled the stigma of diabetes, myths and also early symptoms associated with the disease.

While staying on track is tough, Golic says his wife and children are some of his biggest supporters.

“Get others involved in your life,” Golic said. “It’s difficult in the beginning but when you get the groove of it, it’s a lot easier.” l

Are you working? Have you been injured on the job?

Was it a serious injury as defined under NY Workers’ Compensation Law? If yes, then call Figeroux & Associates for a FREE Consultation at 718-222-3155.

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Workers who know their rights and speak to a lawyer put themselves in a better position to obtain a recovery.

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MOVING FORWARD

App Helps Blacks and Hispanics Safe at School Manage their Diabetes

D

acia Bryant is a Certified Diabetes Educator, Pharmacist, and the Founder/Chief Health Officer of A ONE C Lifebox. Bryant is very passionate about diabetes care. She says: “I take diabetes personally. My grandfather was the first person in my family I knew that had diabetes. I watched him over the years as he managed his diabetes without complaint. His passing was the motivator for me to become a diabetes educator.

I also started to recognize that members of my extended family were being diagnosed with diabetes; aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends as well.

People living with diabetes typically have to juggle a healthcare team to manage their concerns. Just attempting to exercise regularly and be conscious of meal portions can be overwhelming.

As a pharmacist for over 19 years, I have realized that the journey is just as important as the destination to better health!”

Is that why you you created the company?

Throughout my years working in healthcare, I heard from many dissatisfied patients who felt alone in managing their diabetes. One common theme was that their doctor visits were less than ideal.

(CDE) who will help them to reach their A1C goals.

•Through our smart phone app and web portal our members can monitor, analyze and share health data with members of their medical team.

•Our members receive our LifeBox as a reward in the mail for taking control of their health. The Lifebox contains a healthy snack sample to try, a diabetesfriendly topical product and some feelgood beauty items.

Many times, their questions went unanswered and the advice given didn’t resonate because it felt like there was a cultural disconnect.

Additionally, these patients felt unsupported in the time between their doctor visits. We saw that there was an opportunity to provide coaching and support in that space.

So after realizing there were no digital health companies dedicating resources in our communities, I created A ONE C LifeBox. What do your members get?

Our members get: •Access to Certified Diabetes Educators

Thriving With Diabetes

Become a member and, receive personalized diabetes coaching and support learn how to take responsibility for your healthcare get tools to lower your A1C join others in our community facing the same challenges

+

How are you different from other coaching, provider services, apps, etc,?

We are different in every way because everything we created, from the patient centered platform to the behavioral reward component, was designed with our communities in mind.

Also, our CDEs are all stakeholders in our company — not only employees. So our members can feel confident that the advice they receive is coming from medical professionals who have a vested interest in their health.

Speaking of your CDEs, what are your credentials and thos eof the professionals giving advice on diabetes?

Before you can become a CDE, you have to have already been a medical professional such a nurse, registered dietitian, physician or a pharmacist. I have been a pharmacist for over 20 years, and I was certified through The National Certification Board of Diabetes Educators to become a CDE.

Black and Hispanic populations have higher rates of diabetes. Do you believe you can make a difference? How can you be so optimistic?

I’m optimistic about the future of our communities learning how to manage their diabetes because I see what is possible in the lives of real people. I realize from our member responses that they are ready to take control of their health care and don’t want to leave that responsibility up to someone else.

I want to say to anyone who has been diagnosed with diabetes; that diabetes is not a death sentence. Our company was founded to support our community and the community has responded with great enthusiasm – and for that I’m optimistic.l

+

www.aoneclifebox.com 212.390.8114 (text or call)

Like us on Facebook

@cawnyc

5

D

iabetes management is 24/7 and doesn't take a break during the school day. Schools need to provide proper care and support to help prevent life-threatening medical complications. Effective school-based diabetes management requires 3 things:

1. Basic diabetes training for all staff.

All school staff members who have responsibility for a child with diabetes should receive training that provides a basic understanding of the disease and the child’s needs, how to identify medical emergencies, and which school staff members to contact with questions or in case of an emergency.

2. Shared responsibilities for care, with leadership by school nurse.

The school nurse holds the primary role of coordinating, monitoring, and supervising the care of a student with diabetes.

However, in addition to any full- or parttime school nurse, a small group of school staff members should receive training from a qualified healthcare professional in routine and emergency diabetes care, so that a staff member is always available for: nyounger or less experienced students who require assistance with their diabetes management (e.g., administering insulin, checking their blood glucose, choosing appropriate food), and nall children with diabetes in case of an emergency (including administration of glucagon).

These staff members should be school personnel who have volunteered to do these tasks and do not need to be healthcare professionals.

3. Self-management is allowed in all school settings for students with capacity.

Children possessing the necessary skills and maturity to do so, should be permitted to self-manage their disease in the classroom or wherever they are in conjunction with a school-related activity.

Such self-management should include monitoring blood glucose and responding to blood glucose levels with needed food and medication while utilizing appropriate safety protocols.

These principles have been endorsed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American Association of Diabetes Educators, American Diabetes Association, Children with Diabetes, Disability Rights Education Defense Fund, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Pediatric Endocrinology Nursing Society, Pediatric Endocrine Society, and The Endocrine Society.l Source:www.diabetes.org

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

6

What Should I Eat?

LIFESTYLE

There is no “diabetes diet,” but the ADA does offer top tips for eating well

T

“ A variety of eating patterns (combinations of different foods or food groups) are acceptable for the management of diabetes.”

BY KELLY RAWLINGS

he so-called diabetes diet is like the Loch Ness Monster and Bigfoot. "Sightings" pop up periodically in headlines and are endlessly discussed on the Internet, but experts say these creatures simply don't exist.

Indeed, there's no one-size-fits-all diabetes diet, but a recent position statement from the American Diabetes Association sums up for health care providers general diabetes nutrition guidelines. "Nutrition Therapy Recommendations for the Management of Adults With Diabetes" (Diabetes Care, November 2013) suggests how to shape a healthful eating pattern—along with medication as needed and exercise—to manage diabetes.

To craft the 22-page document, diabetes specialists on the writing committee tracked down proof through the tangled thickets of diabetes nutrition science and eating behavior. These folks— including dietitians, diabetes educators, a doctor, a nurse, and a pharmacist— labored for the love of science and

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—ADA nutrition position statement

health. They're not paid for writing the guidelines. No industry funding or other support is allowed, either.

The recommendations are based on the best that science can currently offer. "We have to stay true to the evidence, be sure the recommendations reflect the evidence—regardless of my opinions," says writing committee cochair, Jackie Boucher, MS, RD, LD, CDE, of the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation.

The authors rated each recommendation on the strength of the evidence that supports it. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) are the most trusted way to prove cause and effect ("Studying Fat," explains RCTs in more detail). But we don't or can't have RCTs for all aspects of eating with diabetes or data that are relevant to all ages, types of therapy, or specific health situations. "More research is needed" isn't a cop-out; there's much we still don't know!

The team excluded nutrition studies that had high dropout rates; subjects may have found the eating pattern too difficult or unappealing. The writing team also favored long-term studies lasting for months or years. Because of expense and complexity, many diabetes-specific nutrition studies last only a few weeks, according to Boucher. "Most aren't longterm enough for us to see meaningful outcomes of nutrition changes over months and years," she says.

To someone like me who wonders, "What should I eat?" the recommendations may sound vague. What about carbohydrate, for example, a focus for people managing blood sugars? Is lowercarb eating ideal? The guideline says: "Evidence suggests that there is not an ideal percentage of calories from carbohydrate, protein, and fat for all people with diabetes; therefore, macronutrient distribution should be based on individualized assessment of current eating patterns, preferences, and metabolic goals."

So, in short, there's no "right" answer.

Rather, as the document says, I should

consult with a dietitian about what's best for my health and consider my preferences, culture, and budget to evolve an eating pattern that works for me.

Cochair, Alison Evert, MS, RD, CDE, of the University of Washington Medical Center, notes that such flexible guidelines can be frustrating when it comes to everyday eating. "One challenge, especially with nutrition guidelines, is that people want a list of what to eat, what not to eat," she says. "Recommendations are very broad; people like very specific recommendations."

Although the recommendations focus on what's best for populations as a whole, sections of the document provide specific details, such as coordinating food with types of diabetes medications.

For all people with diabetes, it's important to know what foods contain carbohydrates, for example, and choose fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead of foods with added sugar, fat, and sodium.

For those using insulin, it's also important to count carbs and "match" mealtime insulin to what you eat.

Throughout the document, the authors stress individual needs and preferences, and say each eating plan should be customized. "So many people overly restrict things by themselves," Evert says. The guidelines give us more food choices. A healthful eating plan that maintains the pleasure of enjoying food is one that I (and my diabetes) can stick with for a long time.

Top Nutrition Tips The recent nutrition position statement (see it at diabetes.org/nutritionguidelines) from the American Diabetes Association, sets the record straight on some controversial "what to eat with diabetes" topics:

1. Healthful Carb Sources Eat at least as much fiber and whole grains as are recommended for the general public. Fruits, vegetables, and whole

grains help you get the daily fiber (25 grams for women, 38 grams for men) and whole-grain servings (about three) suggested for good health.

2. Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Limit or avoid sugary beverages to reduce the risk of weight gain and worsening of blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol. "Changing beverage choices makes a huge impact in glycemic control," says Alison Evert, MS, RD, CDE.

3. Weight Loss Jackie Boucher, MS, RD, LD, CDE, says there's no single ideal weight-loss diet, but what does work, is "portion control and finding an eating pattern you can follow." An eating plan itself isn't enough for weight loss, either. For weight loss, eating less and burning more calories through exercise are most effective.

Energy balance is key; the calories we take in should not be more than we burn, or extra calories will build up.

4. Supplements Use food to get the vitamins and minerals you need instead of spending extra on supplements, herbal products, or cinnamon. We have no proof that dietary supplements help to manage diabetes, either.

Vitamins and minerals are necessary, but are better when eaten in actual food, Evert says.

5. Sodium Aim for no more than 2,300 mg daily, the recommendation for most Americans.

Fewer than 2,300 mg daily may be necessary for some people, such as those with high blood pressure.

6. Fat When eating fatty foods, eat the healthful kind in small amounts.l Article originally appeared on www.diabetesforecast.org

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