Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 105 by IQ INC.

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ISSUE 105 VOLUME 18

August 20, 2020

SERVING THE CARIBBEAN AND HISPANIC COMMUNITIES! VOTE ON NOV 3 LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT!

A Real or Fake Savings Club? BY KAREN HOBBS, FTC

mitation is the greatest form of flattery. It’s also the greatest form of “scammery.” That’s why scammers are imitating a type of informal savings club known as a “sou sou” or “susu” to trick people into joining what amounts to an illegal pyramid scheme. If you’ve never heard of the term “sou sou,” a quick internet search will tell you that it’s a rotating savings club with historic roots in West Africa and the Caribbean. It’s a savings arrangement

between a small group of trusted people – usually family and friends – who regularly pay a fixed amount into a common fund and take turns getting paid out. In a sou sou, you don’t earn interest, never get out more than you paid in, and there’s no reward for recruiting people to join. This way of saving is based on the honor system, and it is not without risk. So, it’s not surprising that scammers are pitching fake sou sou savings clubs and opportunities like “The Circle Game,” “Blessing Loom,” “Money Board”. These kinds of illegal pyramid schemes are the exact opposite of a sou

Make Sure Your Vote Counts in November ....30

continued on page 5

Ways to Manage Post COVID-19 Related Anxiety .... 25

Kamala Harris ‘Electrifies’ West Indian Voters

Knowledge is Power when you use it! Get a FREE Consultation! Ask the Lawyer:

Call 855-768-8845

BY MARC CUPATO POLITICO.COM

Granger: PPP Started Tenure On Wrong Foot ....2

AUDERHILL, Fla.: Almost as soon as Kamala Harris became the first woman of JamaicanIndian descent to be nominated for vice president, a mock White House menu of oxtail and jerk chicken cropped up on a West Indian diaspora Facebook group called Soca de Vote. Calls from Caribbean radio show

T&T On Lock Down Again, Masks Now Mandatory....14

Kamala Harris

continued on page 7

Brian Figeroux, Esq., Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association Conscious Man. Guess Who’s On Obama’s Summer Playlist?....22

What Is Advance Care Planning? ....19

Haitian-American Hired by VP Kamala Harris ....6

Rihanna to Release Caribbean Cookbook ....21

Inside: EQUITY SMART REALTY 4-page Special ....15-18

CARIBBEAN ROUNDUP 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

Fmr. President David Granger: PPP Started Tenure Off on Wrong Foot by Firing Public Servants

ormer President, David Granger is of the view that the Irfaan Ali administration commenced its tenure on a bad start after they began firing public servants just days into office. Granger, during a closed interview with PNC’s Nicole Telford, questioned the priorities of the new administration, citing that they seem to be focused more on “persecution” rather than explaining policies. The former Head of State said that the PPP/C had months to prepare for their time in office and he was under the impression that they would have been crafting a strong plan for governance. “We thought they would have appointed a Minister of Finance,” Granger added “we thought they would have explained how they planned to develop the country, we thought they would have put forward some development plan which I did myself in January of this year, the decade of development plan, but instead they are persecuting civil servants, public servants, you know hard working people.” With the change in Government, it was expected that most of those who were politically appointed under the Granger led A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition administration resign from their posts. This did not happen, however leading the new administration to issue letters of termination to those persons – some of whom refuse to demit office. Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister, Gail Teixeira had recently made it clear that the party was not looking at public servants only political appointees. Those very political appointees were presented with an ultimatum to either resign or be fired from

Former President Granger

their post. But this act, according to Granger will now have implications on the development of Guyana as well as in other dimensions.” “At a personal level, you would have mothers and fathers going home to their households, going home to their children, saying I don’t have a job. This is in the middle of a pandemic. People are without work, people are wondering where their next meal is coming from, and you sending people home,” Granger said. He claimed that the persons being sent home are not “big shots” but ordinary wage earners. However, the list of political appointees being sent home proves otherwise, containing the names of top officials from the APNU+AFC who raked in salaries of up to $900,000 per month along with benefits such as “refreshment allowance” among others. Granger continued that grave consequences will emerge for the new administration as according to him, Guyana is not “rich in human resource.” He explained “We have always lost our intelligent people, what you call it, brain drain to the Caribbean, to North America and other countries and the worse thing an administration could do is drive tal-

ented, skilled, qualified professional people out of the public service.” Granger pointed to his tenure as President and said that with his creation of four new towns, namely Bartica, Mabaruma, Mahdia and Lethem, created new jobs for public servants, something he noted the new administration should be focused on. “You need more public servants, you need more administrations to develop these Regions and to deliver services to the people,” Granger said. Further, the former President alluded to the fact that the new administration is firing persons during the middle of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic with no due cause. While it is because of their political affiliation that they are being removed, Granger stated that this can be a problem from a legal standpoint. “Are they guilty of something?” Granger questioned, adding that “Almost every adult in this country has participated in some form of political activity. Have they suddenly become criminals because they voted? Are they political? Have any of them committed an offense? Have any of them been accused of an offense other than being political? What does being political mean?” If the new administration continues with this trend, Granger added, “in a flash, many ministries, many agencies, Commissions and Boards will be deprived of qualified people.” “They started on the wrong foot,” he said, “Rather than starting in a conciliatory way to combine the energies of the people of Guyana, they started by diving the country in the worse possible way.”l —www.Kaieteur News via Guyanese Online

139 Candidates to Contest September 3 General Election

INGSTON, Jamaica (August 19, 2020): The Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) says a total of 139 candidates have been nominated to contest the general parliamentary elections scheduled for September 3, with both the ruling Jamaica Labor Party and the main opposition Peoples National Party fielding a full slate of 63 candidates. The candidates were nominated yesterday August 18, at designated nomination centers across the island from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, however, two Jamaica Labor Party candidates were unable to go to the nomination center as they are in quarantine awaiting test results for exposure to the COVID-19 virus. They are the JLP Candidate for St. Mary Western Robert Montague and the candidate for St. Catherine South Central

PM Holness

Dr. Andrew Wheatley. The commission said the remaining 13 candidates will contest the election independently in the following constituencies:

•St Ann North Western •Trelawny Northern •Trelawny Southern •St James Central •Westmoreland Central •Westmoreland Eastern •Manchester Central •Clarendon North Western •St Catherine North Western •St Catherine South Western •St Catherine North Central The commission noted that of the 139 candidates, 105 are males and 34 are females. The EOJ says it will now intensify preparations for the Special Services Voting Day on Monday, August 31. On that day, Election Day Workers and members of the security forces will cast their ballots.l —Wiredja News Desk

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THOUGHTS

No Cure in Sight: The Covid-19 Economic Virus in New York City As the End of Summer Approaches

TEAM 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.

BY JAMES A. PARROTT & LINDA MOE CENTER FOR NEW YORK CITY AFFAIRS

Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman

Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Anvaar Sabirov

ven with the number of new Covid-19 cases in New York City receding dramatically, and with many sectors of the local economy continuing to re-open from the months-long pandemic-induced lockdown, unemployment in the city remains distressingly high. Ominously, nearly 50,000 workers a week lost jobs in the city even during the economic recovery months of June and July – a pace of initial unemployment claims four times higher than during the worst of the 2008-09 Great Recession. And the July expiration of the temporary $600 Federal supplemental weekly unemployment insurance benefit will impose deep new hardships on hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers and on the entire city economy. Drawing on a range of current jobs and income data, this report paints a picture of the pandemic’s persisting economic impact on New York City and State. Among other key report findings:

Interns Sharif Tyler Casey Tong

While the official June unemployment rate in the city was 20.4 percent (up from 18.3 percent in May), the “actual” unemployment figure (measured by workers receiving unemployment benefits) was much higher, at 32.7 percent. In the Bronx, this actual unemployment rate was nearly 41 percent. The number of public assistance recipients in the city rose nearly 16 percent between February and June, and the number of residents enrolled in the feder-

al Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps) increased by 12.5 percent during that period.l James A. Parrott is Director of Economic and Fiscal Policies at the Center for New York City Affairs at The New School. Lina Moe is a research assistant at the Center and a graduate student in economics at the New School for Social Research.

Contributors Jennine Estes Erin Telesford Janet Howard Mary Campbell Tarsha Gibbons Travis Morales Email info@myiqinc.com Telephone 718-771-0988 Website www.cawnyc.com

100th Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage

he year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting women’s constitutional right to vote. The passage marked the largest expansion of democracy in the history of our country. This historic centennial offers an unparalleled opportunity to commemorate a milestone of democracy and to explore its relevance to the issues of equal rights today. Rodneyse Bichotte, Assemblymember for the 42nd District of the New York State Assembly released the following statement: Today [August 18], marks the 100th anniversary of the ratification of

Bichotte

the 19th Amendment, which prohibited voting discrimination on the basis of sex. Reaching this milestone required a long and difficult struggle. Women's suffrage activists marched, lobbied and practiced civil disobedience in order to achieve voting rights. Women's suffrage was controversial at the time, and the amendment failed to enfranchise all women. Many Black, Asian, Hispanic and Native American women did not get to participate in the electoral system until the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 almost 50 years later. Let this historic day serve as a reminder

of the importance of voting. Women have been fighting to have their voices heard for hundreds of years. The fight is not over. Women are still facing enormous gender inequalities in 2020. The pandemic has caused mothers to bear an even greater domestic burden, while their work hours have fallen at four times the rate of men. The gains of the last century are in jeopardy. Everyone should exercise their right to VOTE this November to make sure these gains are not lost, and progress continues!l

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CIVIL RIGHTS

Hate and Extremism in America BY LINDA N., SPECIAL TO CAW

umerous hateful activities and crimes occur yearly in the United States, triggered by reasons linked to religion, language spoken, skin color, who you choose to love, and so on. These biases, exhibited in various forms, are not limited to hate speeches, white supremacy activities, racism, and vandalism, a common feature that runs through faulty ideologies. Across America, non-profit organizations such as the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has tracked over nine hundred (900) hate groups operating in the US. These groups are entities, with members who have biases against people, groups, or communities of specific ethnic origin, religion, race, disability, gender identity, or sexual orientation, classified as hate groups. Some of these groups exist to cause mayhem in the society, demonizing people, and creating fear in communities; some instigate conflicts, cause riots, and contribute to general disturbances. Over the years, such crimes have necessitated the enactment of several laws at the federal and state levels for prosecuting suspects caught with specific activities, which will serve as future deterrents. Unfortunately, there is insufficient data at the national level to show the frequency of occurrence because

states do not report at the federal level, and some reported crimes. However, it's estimated over 200,000 hate crimes according to surveys and estimates recorded by the Bureau of Justice Statistics. What Is the Color of 'Extremism' in America? According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, of an equal or higher level of concern, more than 1,600 extremist groups are operating across the country. These groups run on ideologies too but differ from hate groups because some of them tilt towards violence. Undeniably, the concept of extremism has defied a universal definition because it is subject to various influencing factors. Scholars and researchers acknowledge that the political environment influences the classification, and the activities regarded as extremist. For instance, factors like the political system, political culture, goals, ideologies, personal ideologies, and experiences play a significant role. Scholars claim that the use of the concept as a political tool, as determined by the sitting political group in power, acts of intolerance, antagonistic behavior toward the ruling party's ideologies, and rejection of agreed social order affects the definition. This lack of coherent explanation creates a legal challenge that makes

Editorial credit: willy sanjuan / Shutterstock.com

extremism cases challenging to prosecute by the appropriate institutions, inadvertently posing a significant problem to national security. Despite this, expert Peter Bergen notes that there might be variances in definitions, extremism, is influenced by the perpetrator's perception of conflicting with another, an 'us against them' state of mind, with an attitude of always being on the offensive and looking for a 'scapegoat.' It differs slightly from acts of hate crimes because it promotes violence as a means of conveying their grudges. Extremists believe in using force to achieve political, ideological, or religious goals. There are several examples around the world, but in the United States, incidents like the September 11, 2001 bombing of

the twin tower remain a vivid example of the effects of extremism resulting in acts of terrorism, a grudge that dates back to the '80s. Radicalized ideologies birthed extremist movements and actions, which experts argue holds the solution to counter the problem. In the United States, political extremism remains one of the most prevalent forms of extremism, and history dates back to when the British colonized the country. Over the years, there have been countless radical protests and movements, scattered across American history. Hate and Extremism in New York There are various hate groups and extremist movements across the fifty continued on page 5

Available at Amazon.com

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CIVIL RIGHTS Hate and Extremism/ continued from page 4

A Real or Fake Savings Club?/ continued from page 1

(50) States, in New York State alone, there are over 40 hate groups with evidence of their activities in the rise of antisemitic attacks, and other forms of attacks based on race and sexual orientation. Editorial credit: Everett Collection / Shutterstock.com

What Causes Hate and Extremism? History reveals that American has a longstanding narrative, deep-rooted in three primary triggers — violence, hate, and fear. In recent years, the fear of 'demographic change' has become the most prevailing and insidious fear. It is driven by the belief that there is a conspiracy to wipe out the 'white' race from their home and replace them with non-white populations or foreigners. This conspiracy is driven by the misinterpretation of census figures, analysis of population growth and trends. Beyond that, some believers claim that some politicians and Jews support the fostering of the demographic change. Hence, the surging antisemitism attacks. These reactions have been simmering under the surface, from generation to generation, existing in pockets of people, and breaking forth into extremist movement when people with similar feelings and ideologies join forces. For instance, violent extremism is driven by right-wing, racially motivated ideologies, while radicalism driven by individual ideologies sold and used convincingly to swing sentiments and evoke solidarity emotions.

Combatting the Malaise Over the years, awareness and sensitivities have increased over the issues of hate groups and extremist movement. Several individuals and groups are working tirelessly to overcome the various agendas held by those promoting white nationalism, racism, hate crimes, antisemitism, and continuous discrimination against immigrants. Increased awareness of the danger of allowing such agendas to color the national discuss and shape the future of America, they know how much of a threat it poses to national security by encouraging the practice of hate, fear, and resentment. More courageous, people willing to stand up for others, and new organizations are required to fight for human rights. As well, the media stands as one of the most effective tools in achieving this mandate. Evidence abounds that the internet, specifically social media, is an essential tool used in fostering this sinister plan. People with radical ideologies meet virtually, share, and promote their views and conspiracy with far-reaching consequences. They brainwash, enroll,

and instigate people to perpetuate destructive acts against others based on their perceptions. Hence, this medium can also promote positive messages by producing counter messages and using public media to raise awareness and change people's attitudes and behavior. Beyond that, all governments: federal, state, and counties/cities must invest in the fight against these groups; institutions empowered to enforce their authority and hold these groups accountable for the harm they cause. Finally, technology companies, especially those operating in information technology such as Facebook and Twitter, must continually enforce their policies to punish those who flout their policies by promoting violence, harm, and hate speech. All these and more strategies must be considered when designing a national response to combat organized hatred and extremism in America. Failure to recognize and address it as a real problem could result in a dis-United States of America. l

sou: They promise you’ll make more money than you put in and depend on recruiting new people to keep money flowing into the fund. Like all other pyramids, once they run out of new recruits to bring into the club, the money dries up, leaving everyone waiting for their pay out holding the bag. If you see a post or get a direct message on Instagram, Facebook, or other social media about one of these clubs, think twice and remember the warning signs. If the offer comes from a friend or family member, tell them about this scheme. And, if you’ve if you’ve been contacted to join a fake sou sou, please tell us: ftc.gov/complaint. Your report can help us protect others from a scam. l Karen Hobbs is the Assistant Director, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC

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CARIBBEAN STAR

Karine Jean-Pierre: From Queens, New York to the White House, this Haitian-American is Making History dream that in many ways eluded them. They still live check-to-check, but in their eyes, because I made it to the White house, because their daughter went to Columbia, they have received it."

BY BET STAFF

en. Kamala Harris made history by being the first Black woman, Indian-American and HBCU alumni to be chosen as a vice presidential candidate. With Joe Biden by her side, she is more than prepared to take on Donald Trump and Mike Pence. However, everyone needs a team and Harris has come to depend on one woman who is clearly a fighter and an inspiration for those who advocate for social justice and systemic change. Meet Harris’ Chief of Staff Karine Jean-Pierre, Harris’ who is a former Obama staffer and checks several boxes that make her so dynamic. She’s a Haitian-American, child of immigrants, East Coast born, self-identifying lesbian who takes no prisoners when it comes to defending justice and fairness for all. Ecstatic about her new position, JeanPierre happily rejoiced on Twitter writing, "Karine 'ambitious' Jean-Pierre is incredibly proud to be working to elect the Biden/Harris ticket. Let’s go!!" Jean-Pierre might be a new name and face to many but she has been fighting

Karine Jean-Pierre

against inequality for years. Here are five things you should know about the political powerhouse that is standing tall for the woman who could be vice president. Born to Haitian Immigrant Parents Jean-Pierre was born on this day, August 13 in 1977 to Haitian parents in Martinique. However, she was raised in Queens, New York and is the oldest of three siblings. In 2019, she told PBS about her upbringing, "My parents, Haitian immigrants, it's like the immigrant experience. They came here for the American

Worked on Several Presidential Campaigns and in the Obama White House The 43-year-old made it to the White House but even before working alongside President Barack Obama, she was the southeast regional political director for John Edwards' presidential campaign in 2008 then joined Obama's historic campaign in the same capacity. The Columbia University graduate then served in the White House as the regional political director. By 2011, she was the National Deputy Battleground States Director for President Obama's 2012 reelection campaign. Jean-Pierre was also the deputy campaign manager for Martin O'Malley’s 2016 presidential campaign and last year, she became the co-national political director for Sen. Kamala D. Harris’ presidential campaign. Once Harris’ campaign ended, Jean-

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Pierre transferred her skills to Joe Biden’s camp becoming a senior adviser to his presidential campaign. She told The Washington Post, “I’ve known Joe Biden for 10 years now. I believe he’s a man of integrity, he’s a man who knows how to lead, he’s a man who knows how to use the levers of government to help people and he’s the man who could beat Donald Trump in November. For me, as a Black woman, I just could not sit this out.” She’s a Staple on Cable News Karrine Jean-Pierre is known for her sharp, calm takes as a political analyst. She has appeared on Fox News, Fox Business, MSNBC, CNN, CSPAN, PBS NewsHour and countless other media outlets. Author and Human Rights Activist What clearly fuels Karine Jean-Pierre is the fight for equality. She has worked at the Center for Community and Corporate Ethics and in April 2016, she became the senior advisor and national spokesperson for MoveOn.org, which is a grassroots political organization that fights for social justice and political progress. In November, she released Moving Forward: A Story of Hope, Hard Work, and the Promise of America. Stacey Abrams said about the book, “Moving Forward arrives at a moment when inspiration, insight, and optimism are in short supply. Karine Jean-Pierre delivers all three in abundance. Her advice resonates across differences with a single, necessary command: Move Forward. With Karine’s book as our guide, we absolutely can". Being involved in her community whether on the big or small stage has always been at the core of Jean-Pierre's work. In December LGBTQ outlet, The Advocate, “Get involved in your community. Volunteer. Get involved in your church, temple, [or] mosque. This is an ugly and dangerous time in our nation’s history. But to me, that is even more of a reason to get in the arena." She added, "With so much at stake, now more than ever, I think we all need to engage in the political process. It is the only way we’re going to be able to turn our country around.” Ride or Die for Kamala Harris and There Are Receipts While Jean-Pierre is always calm, cool and collected when a protester tried to charge at Kamala Harris in June of 2019, she shut it down and shut it down fast! She told MSNBC about the incident, "I just thought it's going to go bad, and I cannot let this happen, and as you saw I just went into action. It was instinct."l

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KAMALA HARRIS Kamala “Electrifies’/ continued from page 1 hosts flooded the Biden campaign from South Florida. And a jolt of excitement shot through the crowd of early vote poll workers at the Lauderdhill Mall, in the midst of Broward County’s growing Jamaican community. “There was just this sense of energy,” state Rep. Anika Omphroy, a daughter of two Jamaican immigrants, said in describing the moment the announcement was received. “It was all Black women out there working under the tents,” she said. “It was 98 degrees in August in South Florida, so it was too hot to cheer. But you could feel it, this sense.” That feeling stretches beyond the Jamaican-American community and the more traditional African American community, shared by those in South Florida with roots in Haiti, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago or Guyana. They comprise a growing and varied Black West Indian diaspora community, a littlediscussed but increasingly influential slice of the electorate of the nation’s biggest swing state. While exact numbers are hard to come by, census estimates and political studies peg the diverse Black community — nicknamed the Caribbean Massive by some — at more than 2.5 million, including hundreds of thousands of Florida voters. That’s crucial in a battleground state where elections are often decided by less than a percentage point. For a campaign that's been dogged by questions of lackluster enthusiasm since Biden declared his candidacy 16 months ago, the electricity sparked by the Harris pick has produced tangible results. The campaign reported raising a record $48 million in 48 hours. Pollsters logged an uptick of support for Biden, who was already leading Donald Trump — including in the president’s must-win state. “It’s the pick that’s going to energize us. It’s the pick that’s getting us motivated,” said Karen Andre, one of Biden’s top advisers in Florida who’s of HaitianAmerican descent. She said the campaign plans “a full 360 degree effort” to engage Caribbean-American voters, including with paid radio ads in Creole and English and possible interviews with Harris with local hosts who have audiences with roots in the West Indies. Andre said that, after the Harris announcement, her phone was “burning” with calls from Jamaican-Americans and

Oakland, CA/USA-Jan.27,2019- Senator Kamala Harris moves through the crowd after announcing her candidacy for president. Editorial credit: Kim Wilson / Shutterstock.com also “heard from Haiti, Trinidad, Barbados, Bahamas.” At the same time, the independent, Biden-backing super PAC Unite the Country is considering its own program aimed at Black Caribbean voters. The PAC is led by veteran Florida operative Steve Schale, who noticed a drop off in enthusiasm among these voters when Hillary Clinton unexpectedly lost the state to Trump in 2016. Even Republicans acknowledge Harris could have an effect. “There is a very tight connection between Haitian Americans in South Florida and Jamaican Americans in South Florida,” said Hans Mardy, a Haitian-American Republican activist from Miami. “We are one when it comes to our struggle. We fought the same war. We have the same Bible. What is good for one immigrant, is good for us all.” Mardy, like many Haitian-Americans, said he’s struggling to support Trump after he called the island a “shithole.” Democrats are determined not to let the community forget about it or Trump’s hardline immigration policies that have particular salience in South Florida. Mardy said his three adult daughters are all excited about voting for Biden with Harris on the ticket. Another Creole plus for Harris: her campaign’s chief of staff is a well-known daughter of the community: Karine JeanPierre. Eddy Edwards, host of the popular “Caribbean Riddims” AM radio show for 36 years in Broward, said “there’s a buzz in the air” over Harris.

Still, there isn’t perfect alignment between the Haitian and Jamaican diaspora communities in the state. The Haitian community is larger, has a Creole-speaking culture and is clustered more in north Miami-Dade County. Jamaican-Americans’ ancestral island is a former English colony and they’ve made Broward County their home, clustering heavily in cities like Lauderhill and Miramar, where the entire city council and mayor have Jamaican ancestry. Nine months ago, Dale Holness became the first Jamaican-born mayor of Broward, the second-most populous in the state. The West Indian influence in Broward County is so strong that the International Cricket Council sanctioned a new Fort Lauderdale stadium. The project manager is Chandradath Singh, a Broward resident who was Trinidad and Tobago’s consul in Miami before serving as the nation’s ambassador to India and China. Singh estimated Florida has more than 2 million people with roots in the Englishspeaking West Indies. And Harris’ Indian ancestry on her mother’s side gives her added salience in the Caribbean: Many Indians were brought to the West Indies as indentured servants after slavery ended. “Biden’s history as vice president for Barack Obama was well-received by the community, but now I see greater enthusiasm and support,” Singh said. Dan Smith, a University of Florida professor, studied the state’s voter rolls in 2018 and found there were at least 115,000 Florida voters born in Haiti and

91,000 born in Jamaica. The total number of U.S. born voters who identify as Haitian-American, Jamaican-American or trace roots to other islands in the West Indies is likely far higher. The nonprofit Migration Policy Institute estimates there are at least 336,000 members of the Jamaican diaspora community in Florida, 528,000 Haitian-Americans, 56,000 with roots in Trinidad and 7,000 Barbadian diaspora members. The focus on these Black voters and communities broadens the discussion of Florida’s voters from the Caribbean, which usually focuses most heavily on those with roots in Spanish-speaking Cuba and Puerto Rico. Levi Williams, a Republican activist and former school board candidate who’s of Jamaican descent, said that while Black voters tend to vote Democratic, there’s a conservative group of voters who don’t like Biden’s politics. Williams acknowledged that Harris could drive higher turnout among Black Caribbean-American voters, but he was skeptical the Biden campaign would pull it off. He pointed out that Biden suggested recently that there was little diversity in the African-American community. “Caribbeans don’t consider themselves Black in the American sense,” Williams said. “A Jamaican is a Jamaican. A Haitian is a Haitian. And a Trinidadian is a Trinidadian. ... You can’t place on that community the Black experience in America.” But Marlon Hill, a Miami-Dade County commission candidate, said he considers himself African-American and Jamaican. He said Harris, who attended historically Black Howard University and was a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, “appeals to the broadest definition of Blackness in America in 2020. When you think of someone who is Black, you can think of their heritage, of the state that they’re from, [and] you have to think of their parents or the school that they went to. Being Black is not singular in America in 2020.” Karen Green, chair of the Florida Democratic Party’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee, said Harris’ background creates a stark contrast with Trump. “She’s a universal woman of our modern times. She serves as a woman who refutes everything Trump stands for,” Green said. “I’m going to be an evangelist for her. And there are thousands like me.”l

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CENSUS 2020

Here Are 10 Tips for Responding to the 2020 Census

t’s now time to respond to the 2020 Census! The U.S. Census Bureau has been preparing for this once-adecade population count for years. The question is: Are you ready? Here are 10 quick tips to help you to respond and it should take just a few minutes: 1. If you don’t regularly check the mail, please do so now. By now, most households have received at least one invite to respond to the 2020 Census, which includes instructions for how to respond online, by phone, or by mail. 2. Go online at 2020census.gov. Even if you don’t get an invitation in the mail, you can go online at 2020census.gov and respond now. You don’t have to wait for the paper questionnaire to arrive either. 3. Your name isn’t on it. The invitation will be addressed to “Resident” – that’s you (and everyone in your household). Don’t throw it out just because your name isn’t on it. But do be aware of scam and fraud mail – learn more here.

in the margins, though, if you need space. Be sure to return the questionnaire in the envelope provided. If you lost it, return it to: U.S. Census Bureau, National Processing Center, 1201 E 10th Street, Jeffersonville, IN 47132. 8. Figure out who is “Person 1/Head of Household.” If you’re the only person in your home, then you are Person 1. If more than one person lives in your home, Person 1 is generally someone whose name is on the mortgage or rental agreement and who is over age 15. how you will respond: online, by phone, or by mail. If you want to answer on paper, you can. Paper questionnaires are arriving by mail to households that haven’t yet responded. 5. Responding online is easy. Your invitation includes a Census ID number. But if you lose it, you can use your address. You can go online on any device including a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Remember: If you respond online, you must complete the census in one sitting. You will not have the ability to save your progress and come back to finish.

4. How wil you respond? Determine

6. You can respond in English and 12 different languages online and by phone. There will be a drop-down menu online, or a special phone number on your invitation. Other languages are: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Russian, Arabic, Tagalog, Polish, French, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, and Japanese. The Census Bureau also offers webpages and guides in 59 non-English languages, including American Sign Language, and guides in Braille and large print.

9. Count everyone who lives in your home – including children. Count everyone who lives and sleeps in your home most of the time, including relatives, friends and others. Learn more about who to count and special circumstances for specific groups of people such as military. If more than 10 people live in your home, respond online at 2020census.gov where there is plenty of space.

7. On the paper questionnaire use blue or black ink – no pencils! You can write

10. Respond as soon as you can. Respond on your own now to avoid a visit from a census taker later this year. l

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IMMIGRATION

The Stories From Immigration Nation ICE Didn’t Want You to See Over the past four years, the Trump administration has slashed the refugee cap from 110,000 spots to 18,000. This year, the government is on track to leave thousands of those reduced spots empty.

BY KATY MURDZA

mmigration Nation, a six-episode docuseries that provides a rare view of the internal workings of immigration enforcement—and its impact on individuals and families—began streaming on Netflix in August. The series provides a unique, up-close look at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) operations in communities from 2017 to 2020 and the reallife impact of our draconian approach to immigration enforcement. While ICE agreed to allow the producers of the series to film its operations, the agency attempted to delay the film’s release after viewing the final product until after the 2020 presidential election. Trump administration officials even threatened to sue to block parts of the film from airing altogether. The film serves as an indictment of our approach to immigration enforcement and the executive branch’s unchecked authority in regulating immigration in the United States. These are the stories ICE tried to cover up:

The U.S. Continues to Separate Immigrant Families The series covers the Trump administration’s 2018 family separation policy that was carried out by U.S. Customs and Border Protection—an agency with a long and documented history of impunity. From detention, a father named Josue recounts when U.S. Customs and Border Protection dragged his screaming 3-yearold son away from him. Emilio, a Guatemalan in his early

This is your city. Do you know your zone?

teens, displays behavioral issues at school as he struggles to adapt to living with his aunt after being separated from his now-detained father at the border. Children who are suddenly separated from a parent are at greater risk of developing chronic mental health or serious physical conditions. While the Trump administration has claimed that it has brought an end to family separation, the docuseries demonstrates that our immigration enforcement policies routinely lead to the separation of families. 4.1 million U.S. citizen children under the age of 18 live with at least one undocumented parent. The filmmakers document how our enforcement policies routinely lead to the separation of these families. Approximately half-a-million have experienced the deportation of at least one parent. The U.S. Deports Veterans of Its Own Military The series also documents how the United States has and continues to deport military veterans, including those who have served in combat. Noncitizens who serve in our military are often unaware that non-violent criminal histories can make them deportable. Last year, the Government Accountability Office revealed that ICE was not following procedures intended to minimize these deportations. Once deported, veterans may be unable to access benefits they earned while serving, like disability or retirement pay. The series documents the struggle of a man named César, a former Marine, who put his life on the line for our country. only to be deported for a nonviolent drug offense. His only potential avenue of relief is a pardon from the Governor of New Mexico.

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Creating Barriers to Family Reunification The series also highlights the story of a woman named Deborah from Uganda who was attacked with acid by men sent by her ex-husband. While she was fortunate to be resettled in the United States as a refugee, the film documents her desperate five-year wait to be reunited with her children.

Deterrence at All Costs Perhaps most devastating are the stories of families who the immigration system separates permanently. The final episode focuses on a policy known as prevention through deterrence, a strategy the United States has pursued since the 1990s. The tactic uses barriers, agents, and technology to prevent immigrants from crossing the border in safer areas. It forces them deep into dangerous terrain like the Sonoran desert. This often leads to death through exposure. The filmmakers spoke with staff of the Pima County Medical Examiner’s office in Arizona about the over 7,000 bodies found on the U.S.-Mexico border since 1998. The series also follows Camerina in her years-long search for the remains of her son. Her story highlights the difficulty in identifying, or even finding, remains of a person who dies in the desert. Over 3,000 people who have been reported missing have not been identified. The Fight Continues The series also documents the way that communities in the U.S. have challenged immigration enforcement practices, with an emphasis on state and local collaboration with the federal government. Citizens of Charlotte, North Carolina fought back against their police department’s collaboration with ICE through a 287(g) agreement. This program allows the Department of Homeland Security to deputize state or local law enforcement officers to perform the functions of federal immigration agents. This allows any interaction with law enforcement, including a traffic violation, to turn into potential deportation and can lead to biasbased policing. It is important to remember that these heartbreaking stories are a part of daily life for real people across the United States. Those portrayed in Immigration Nation share an intimate, vulnerable view of some of the most painful moments of their lives. We must honor them by continuing to fight the policies that cause that pain. It is time to reimagine our approach to immigration enforcement.l

IMMIGRATION

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IMMIGRATION

The Lie About Kamala Harris Birthright Citizenship BY MELISSA CRUZ

eople born in the United States are American citizens, regardless of what President Trump claims. Birthright citizenship—enshrined by the Fourteenth Amendment in the U.S. Constitution—guarantees it. Trump recently suggested to the contrary after a Newsweek column erroneously argued that vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris was not a “natural born citizen.” The assertion that Senator Harris is ineligible for the vice presidency based on her citizenship is an outright lie. This falsehood is steeped in a long, racist history of attempting to gatekeep who can and cannot be a U.S. citizen. What Is Birthright Citizenship? The Fourteenth Amendment was adopted into the Constitution in 1868 following the American Civil War. Its adoption gave “birthright citizenship” to people born or naturalized in the United States, including people who were formerly enslaved. With limited exceptions, all people born within a U.S. territory automatically become an American citizen, regardless of the citizenship of their parents.

Birthright Citizenship and Immigration The racist argument about Harris’ eligibility tries to create a distinction between a “natural born citizen” and a person born in the United States to immigrant parents. At the time of her birth in Oakland, California, Harris’ parents were immigrants. But their immigration status does not matter—birthright citizenship guaranteed her U.S. citizenship no matter her parents’ immigration status. Attempts to restrict citizenship for Americans with immigrant parents— based on race alone—go back centuries. There are unfortunately far too many examples to name. Less than two decades after the adoption of the Fourteenth Amendment, government officials argued that U.S.-born children of Chinese immigrants could not be considered citizens by birth. The Chinese Exclusion Act, signed into law in 1882, barred the entry of almost all immigration from China. It simultaneously banned Chinese immigrants already living in the United States from becoming naturalized citizens, supposedly also disqualifying their American children from citizenship. The government saw Chinese people as “dirty” and “unfit” to be U.S. citizens.

Until the Supreme Court rejected this argument in 1898, Chinese Americans were not considered U.S. citizens in the eyes of the government. President Trump’s History With Birthright Citizenship Trump rose to political prominence—and infamy—in 2011 after claiming that President Obama was born in Kenya and ineligible for the presidency. He was perhaps the loudest high-profile figure to tout the racist “birther” conspiracy theory at the time and continued to push “birtherism” well into 2015. It’s easy to draw a comparison between his claims about Obama then and Harris now. But Trump hasn’t limited his clear disdain for birthright citizenship to these fringe theories. The Trump administration threatened to abolish birthright citizenship by executive order in 2018. The president claimed he would end birthright citizenship by executive order to prevent the children of undocumented immigrants from becoming U.S. citizens. The executive order, however, was never issued. In August 2019, the Trump administration attacked birthright citizenship again. The administration released a policy that changed the way “U.S. residency” was

Kamala Harris. Photo by Greg Skidmore

defined for U.S. military members and government employees living overseas. The policy announcement followed remarks from Trump that birthright citizenship was a “magnet” for undocumented immigration. Under this change, children born abroad to U.S.-citizen servicemembers would not receive automatic citizenship. The policy received bipartisan backlash and got overturned by passage of a law in March 2020. The history of birthright citizenship shows that it can be weaponized to deny rights based on race and immigration status. The suggestion that Senator Harris cannot be vice president is a revival of this dangerous thinking. We cannot let this ideology take hold again in our country.l

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FAMILY MATTERS

Principals and Teachers Call on de Blasio to Delay the Start of In-Person School BY REEMA AMIN, CHALKBEAT AND AMY ZIMMER, CHALKBEAT

s New York City hurtles toward a Sept. 10 school start date, the unions representing both school administrators and teachers are asking the city to delay the start of in-person school until the end of September. Meanwhile, a group of Brooklyn school leaders outlined a proposal to phase-in building reopenings to allow more time to plan. Opening in less than one month ignores “dire warnings” from principals and would “disregard” the “well-being of our school communities,” Mark Cannizzaro, president of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators wrote Wednesday to Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza. The union, which the city has regularly consulted on its fall scheduling, said last month that the planning process had an “alarming lack of direction.” Schools must submit their individual plans by Friday and then wait for approval, which could mean less than 15 working days to prepare for the arrival of students, Cannizzaro said. On top of that, they are still waiting for

Mayor Bill de Blasio advocates for local control over the city’s school districts during a press conference at City Hall, March 7, 2019. Ben Fractenberg/THE CITY

guidance for many details about reopening, making the task impossible to complete while also providing assurances that their buildings are safe. “Regrettably, the city started the planning process far too late for them to have any faith or confidence that they can reopen their buildings on September 10th,” Cannizzaro wrote. “Especially given that teachers do not report until

September 8th, allowing frighteningly little time for the preparation and training necessary for these unprecedented circumstances.” Brooklyn Principals Take a Stand Separately, nearly three dozen principals in Brooklyn’s District 15 asked the city to phase-in the reopening of schools, starting with a remote-only schedule,

according to a letter they addressed to de Blasio, Carranza and Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The Brooklyn principals are calling to have students learn from home through Sept. 18, with pre-recorded lessons only, to give staff time to learn new safety protocols and practice safety procedures, set up and inspect classrooms, and ensure that promised building improvements have actually been made. Schools would also use this time to train staff on trauma-informed instruction. Then, from Sept. 21 to Oct. 18, they would phase-in the children opting for the mix of in-person and at-home learning. “We are gravely concerned that the central response to opening has been piecemeal,” the letter stated. “The COVID-19 funding provided to schools is completely inadequate to address the challenges we face. Our schools need immediate answers, a clear blueprint, and the resources to move forward safely.” The principals said they have little information on how key scheduling challenges will be met, such as how to program their hybrid schedules for students continued on page 13

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FAMILY MATTERS

Delay In-Person School/ continued from page 12 with disabilities or those learning English as a new language. Some schools with more resources are trying to negotiate using outdoor space and purchase extra personal protective equipment, for instance, while other schools are unable to do that, raising concerns about equity across the system, they wrote. Getting answers to various specific questions — such as for health and safety, space usage, and academics — has even been tough for the district’s superintendent’s team, the letter said. The city has held informational sessions with school leaders, have worked in concert with the unions representing educators, and has publicly posted their academic and health plans, as required by the state. Still, many of their concerns feel unheeded, school leaders said. Teachers Weigh In The teachers union agreed with its principal union counterparts. “The UFT has said repeatedly that we cannot re-open schools unless they are safe for students and staff,” United Teachers Federation president Michael Mulgrew said in a statement. “Will any parents be willing to put their children in a school whose principal believes the building is not ready to open because it is not safe?”

Mark Cannizzaro, president of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators Christina Veiga/Chalkbeat

Mayor Bill de Blasio pushed back on the unions’ calls to delay in-person reopening, noting that he has spoken recently with Mulgrew and Cannizzaro and was working to address their concerns. Unions “will always sound various alarms [and] say things, sometimes, in a very dramatic fashion,” he said. “If you want to take away another month of a kid’s education, you can do that, but that’s that’s not where I start,” de Blasio said after he toured Village Academy in Far Rockaway on Wednesday afternoon to observe the measures taken to ensure social distancing. “Let’s start with the valid concerns that teachers and administrators are raising with a whole month to go.” There, Principal Doris C. Lee told reporters she had some “clear systems and structures” in place to reopen and has enjoyed support from her superintendent and her district’s borough office. But school leaders and communities in

other parts of the city are echoing concerns similar to the unions about the start date. A Model Plan Proposed Manhattan’s Urban Assembly Maker Academy drafted a detailed proposal to phase in groups of students over six weeks, allowing for those not in school to continue learning remotely only. Instruction during the first phases would focus on social emotional learning and community building, only moving to academic content several weeks in. As long as indoor dining is prohibited, the school would not allow students to eat indoors either, according to the lengthy proposal. To bring anyone back in the building, staff would have to check off on an extensive list of “prerequisites,” to ensure no one is experiencing coronavirus symptoms. The school is demanding not only clear guidance on how testing and tracing will

work, but also a reliable data sharing plan among the schools it shares a building with. The city has mapped out various scenarios that would trigger the closure of classrooms or school buildings if someone tests positive for the virus, but educators say they need more details. Roughly 76% of the school’s students are Black and Hispanic, and its proposal notes that COVID-19 has disproportionately affected communities of color. But school leaders don’t feel they have enough data to help guide their reopening in a way that is safe or community-driven for their families, which is one reason why they want more time. They hope their proposal could be a model for others. Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer endorsed the plan and sent it to other principals in Manhattan, the school said. “While the proposal will need to evolve and draw specifics from each school’s unique context, we hope that it can be adapted for use throughout NYC public schools, whenever we eventually begin to reopen,” the school community wrote. “Any safe reopening of schools must center the specific needs of populations who will be disproportionately harmed by COVID spread.” Staffing Concerns Abound Principals have largely been trying to pick a hybrid schedule without having some key data, such as how many famicontinued on page 14

PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 IN NYC! TAKE THESE STEPS:

6 ft

Stay home if sick

Wear a face covering

Only leave for essential medical care and testing or other essential errands.

You can be contagious without symptoms. Protect those around you by wearing a face covering.

Keep physical distance

Keep your hands clean

Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.

Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

If you are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, you should still stay home as much as possible. Those at increased risk are adults age 50 or older (adults 65 and older are at the highest risk), and those who have other health conditions. Get tested: There are COVID-19 testing sites in all ﬁve boroughs. To ﬁnd a site, visit nyc.gov/covidtest or call 311.

Bill de Blasio Mayor

For the latest information, visit nyc.gov/coronavirus.

Oxiris Barbot, MD Commissioner

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ISLAND FOCUS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

T&T Locks Down Again, Face Masks Now Mandatory

ORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (August 16): As Trinidad and Tobago is once again placed into partial lockdown, prime minister Dr. Keith Rowley says by Tuesday he hopes to have legislation making the wearing of masks in public gatherings mandatory, as the country now has community spread of the COVID-19 virus. Currently a breach in the covid19 regulations is punishable by either a $50,000 fine or six months in jail. Addressing a news conference on Saturday, Dr Rowley said: “We cannot now continue to allow a significant proportion of the population to be unmasked when we do know that in managing the virus on this high concentration in the population, the wearing of face masks is a useful and effective tool in helping us restrain the virus. The time of persuasion has now passed, and we will take such action.” “We are consulting with the Attorney General (Faris Al-Rawi) at the moment and within the next 48 hours, or thereabouts, we will indicate what action we will take with respect to the mandatory use of face masks. We are going to find legislative arrangements which will allow action to be taken against (any)

person in the national population who insists on not wearing a face mask in public, because we are now convinced that they are endangering the entire population, and, therefore, we will cease to rely on suasion and move to have it become an offence to not cover your nose and mouth in a public place,” Rowley said. The TT Government has had to revert to locking down certain aspects of the economy in order to contain the community spread of Covid-19. In addition to the mandatory wearing of face masks in public Rowley has announced a prohibition on the in-house consumption of food and drinks at restaurants, bars, food courts, malls, and their precincts. The new measures took effect from 6

a.m. Sunday and will remain in force over the next 28 days. All places of worship, beaches, gyms, all contact sports, casinos and members clubs, cinemas will be closed, public gatherings will be down to five people, with weddings, funerals and christening gatherings limited to ten, the PM also announced. Maxi-taxis and taxis will operate at 50 per cent capacity. Under the new dispensation, the prime minister says the school term has been deferred until December 31 and “all teaching institutions are to remain closed until further notice”. In addition, while the Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) exam will take place as scheduled on Thursday, students will sit the exam and go straight back home... as quickly as possible,” says Rowley. “It is our intention to close all teaching institutions until this phase is over and it appears at this point that that period of closure for teaching institutions will go until December 31. “More than likely, we going to have to shut off that first term of the 2020/2021 school year,” Rowley said. And Minister of National Security Stuart Young also indicated the Government would slow down the repatriation process, due to space constraints and the requirement not to have either the formal health care system or the quarantine system overwhelmed. “Right now we will have to step back a little bit from the grant of exemptions,” Young said, adding the number of people repatriated has always been dependent on the State-supervised quarantine facilities and on not having the parallel healthcare system overwhelmed. Young expressed surprise that the number of people wanting to come home had increased after having brought home a number of applicants. He explained that this was so because some people who have been living abroad now want to uproot and return home. However, he said the Government would continue to give priority to those who were on temporary visits, including the elderly, the sick and those with small children, he said. Pointing to the high costs of the last shutdown, the Prime Minister said the Government did not want the country to be in this position. “If that is what we have to do to save lives, we will have to do it, but it may not be with the level of comfort and support that we had in the period before (April to July 31),” he said, adding that limited resources would prevent a repeat of that level of social support. The Prime Minister said the Government was trying to prevent a situation where the number of sick people becomes so great that the health system does not have the capacity to deal with them.l

Delay In-Person School/ continued from page 13

Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer Ben Fractenberg/THE CITY

lies will opt for a fully remote schedule or how many teachers will request to work from home, until this week. The city this week announced that 264,000 district students, or 26%, have so far chosen to learn exclusively from home in the fall, and 15% of teachers have requested medical accommodations. Some principals, especially of large, overcrowded schools, worry how they will staff classes in-person as well as virtually, given a hiring freeze and budget constraints. For instance, there might be no biology teacher available for students who are fully or partially remote, while no algebra teachers might be available for inperson instruction. Or a school might not have a third grade teacher working remotely, so they might need to tap their music teacher to fill that gap. “As you know, teachers cannot be in two places at once,” said Moses Ojeda, principal of Thomas A. Edison Career and Technical Education High School in Queens, during a discussion about reopening plans on WNYC’s The Brian Lehrer Show. Even if they have figured out a schedule that works in terms of their student enrollment and building space constraints —to allow for six feet of social distancing — some school leaders are worried about what happens if staff gets sick during the school year. Principals can bring in substitutes or staff from the city’s Absent Teacher Reserve, but it could be a financial and logistical challenge to do so especially as they might need someone for a specific content area. Ojeda and two other principals, both in the Bronx, told Lehrer that they supported a delay in opening. Students would still learn remotely while school leaders have more time to game out what in-person schedules would look like, they said. “Time does not have to be our enemy, it can actually be an ally,” said Roshone Ault Lee, principal and founder of South Bronx Academy for Applied Media. “So, if we delay the start of school and we are able to strategically plan and think through and mitigate all the challenges, it will be beneficial for everyone.”l

This story was originally published on August 12, 2020 by THE CITY.

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No. 29

Buying a Foreclosure: 5 Things to Know BY JANET HOWARD EQUITY SMART REALTY INC

uying a property out of foreclosure can be a very smart move, financially. But it can also be complicated, expensive, and stressful. Here are 5 things to keep in mind before you take a first step in that direction: Cash or Pre-approval Required Buying a house that has been returned to the lender through foreclosure means dealing with bureaucracy rather than with a motivated seller. Large lenders are notorious for taking their time to approve a contract, even if the offer is for the exact amount specified. Then there's the paperwork, which can seem endless. Most lenders require that prospective buyers have

cash on hand, or a pre-authorized loan in place in order to even submit an offer. There's Little Room for Negotiation Although in certain circumstances there may be an opportunity for some discussion about the price, that is not the norm in a foreclosure. The minimum price is usually written in stone, even during an on-site

property auction, and the only direction is up! The days of buying foreclosures for a song are long past, if indeed they ever really existed. As-Is Condition Means Just That Some buyers specialize in foreclosures while other investors run in the other direction. There are pros and cons, of

course, to every transaction. Sage advice is to always pay the fee for a property inspection on a foreclosed property, even if you have experience. A third-party evaluation is especially valuable if the home has been vacant for an extended period of time, if the utilities have been turned off, or if there are extensive visible defects. Foreclosures can be like icebergs: What you see may be nothing compared to what lies below the surface. Also, with the findings in writing, always confirm that your loan commitment and insurance quotes will be continued on page 4

Senate Majority Advances Legislation Penalizing Housing Discrimination

Democratic Senate he Majority last month advanced legislation to hold real estate professionals accountable for discriminatory housing practices. The bill, S.6874A, sponsored by Senator James Gaughran, penalizes licensed real estate brokers and salespersons by revoking or suspending their licenses, or issuing a fine if they violate the Human Rights Law, which includes housing discrimination. “Housing discrimination and predatory practices will not be tolerated in New York,” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said. “By advancing this legislation, the Senate Majority is sending a clear message that you will be held accountable for engaging in unfair, discriminatory, and racist housing practices. I applaud Senator Gaughran for sponsoring this legislation and continuing the Senate Majority’s commitment to equal and fair access to housing for

Senate Majority Leader Stewart Cousins

all New Yorkers.” Bill Sponsor, Senator James Gaughran, said, “This legislation will ensure that real estate agents who violate New York's Human Rights Law by “steering” minority families towards certain communities, or other racist practices that deny individuals the dignity of choosing their home and neighborhood, face license revocation. Our nation's soul is in crisis and public officials must speak out against racism and end segregation and discrimination in

Senator Gaugran

our society, once and for all. I thank Leader Stewart-Cousins for her historic leadership in swiftly shepherding passing this bill and fighting for a more fair, and just society.” This legislation, S.6874A, will: Make clear the Department of State is able to revoke or suspend a license, or issue a fine, for violations of the Human Rights Law, which includes the State's prohibitions on housing discrimination. n

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EQUITY SMART REALTY

Advantages of a Listing Agent Before attempting to join this small percentage of those who sell their homes without expert help, consider the advantages of hiring a professional real estate agent.

efore listing your home for sale, many home sellers are tasked with the decision to hire an agent or make the venture alone. While the FSBO (For Sale By Owner) avenue might save you a little money by avoiding the commission cost of a listing agent, a real-estate transaction is best navigated with the guidance of an expert. Recent data from the National Association of Realtors reveals that only 7% of FSBO attempts were actually successful in 2017. Typically, these sales were made when sellers already had a buyer in mind. Finding the right listing price is considered the most difficult task for this type of sale.

Setting the Price Choosing a price point is more involved than having a home appraised and asking that amount. In fact, while an appraisal is a good starting point, an expert can access a CMA or comparative market analysis to analyze current trends in the area including what similar homes sell for, current market trends, interest of local buyers, and how long homes are listed. With this important information, a real estate expert can price your home to ensure a profitable sale with a quick turnaround. Suggest Renovations A real estate agent is efficient in finding flaws in your property that may slow down a transaction or effect bids from buyers. For instance, if you live in an area that experiences heavy rain fall, a new roof or air-tight windows and doors may be necessary before listing. Homes for sale in regions with intense summers and brutal winters can benefit from an updated

HVAC system. If you decide to purchase a new unit, make sure to keep warranty paperwork on hand to pass on to the next owner. Small incentives like this can make the difference between receiving unimpressive offers and making a sale. Be sure to brag about recent upgrades in your listing. Buyers know what they’re looking for, and an agent understands how to advertise your property so they can find it. Dealing with Negotiations Once you have accepted an offer from a home buyer, there is still one roadblock in the way before you head to close. Most offers are contingent on a home inspection, meaning an independent professional will inspect the property for flaws or defects that may otherwise go unnoticed. Keep in mind, some states require you to

disclose information about known problems that may affect the value of your home. If you fail to inform them, you may be held legally responsible for fines and fees or the rescission of a sale. Your real estate agent is an expert on the sometimescomplicated responsibilities that sellers face and can ensure your deal won’t fall through. If unexpected problems are discovered, it’s common for a new offer to be written up. An agent will use his expertise to negotiate with the buyer’s agent to maintain fair terms. Free Consultation Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance. Schedule an appointment today. call us at 855-7688845. n

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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Buying a Fixer-Upper

f you like HGTV, the idea of buying an old home and turning it into your dream home can seem fun, romantic and the perfect way to get what you’re looking for, maybe even breaking into the neighborhood or suburb you never thought you could afford. While it’s not a bad idea, you should go into such a venture with a clear idea of what a house needs, how much repairs will cost, whether you have the time, skills and tools needed to make those repairs and if this is the kind of investment you want to make. This Old House walked through things people should know. Take a Hard Look at the Numbers Assess what needs to be done, then add up the costs to renovate the property, including the costs of materials and labor. Subtract the costs of renovation from the home’s likely value when you’re done, then take off another 10 percent or so to cover unexpected expenses. That number you’re left with is what you should be willing to pay. Avoid Significant Structural Improvements Major repairs like plumbing and electrical system overhauls, fixing the foundation or extensive roof or wall work are expensive yet rarely raise the value of the house enough to offset renovation costs because

they’re invisible repairs. Look for houses in need of aesthetic improvements — a paint job, new flooring, yardwork, windows, new countertops and so on. These are easier to do, they’re less expensive, and they’re noticeable. Be Prepared to Get Dirty This doesn’t include plumbing, wiring or work that requires expertise if you don’t have it, but for most people, a fixer-upper is only a good deal if they do much of their own labor. Be realistic about how much time you can devote to home improvement and what you’re able to do. If you’re prepared to slowly renovate over several years, that may be a better investment than a house that needs immediate

improvement to even be livable. Know Where Your Money is Coming From You may be eligible for a renovation loan tied to your mortgage. These loans borrow against the house’s value after the work is completed, and interest is tax-deductible. The FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac offer renovation loans as well. Another option for DIYers is a home equity line of credit. If you're currently embarking on buying a fixer-upper, you may want to contact one of our real estate professionals for more information.Schedule an appointment today by calling 888-670-6791. n

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

Your Success in Real Estate Starts Today When you succeed, the Chamber Coalition succeeds. That’s why we’ve partnered with Kaplan Real Estate Education. From prelicensing and exam prep to continuing education, you’ll be guided through every stage of your real estate career.

Education that fits your schedule Visit www.nacc.nyc/kaplan At check out enter the code Chamber5.

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HOME OWNERSHIP

Hidden Costs: What to Know When Buying a Home

writing fees, title costs and various other costs. These expenses are typically at least $1,000 but could easily end up costing $5,000 or more based on the loan you are receiving. Since they can be so significant, it's a good idea to receive a full title cost statement a few days prior to closing.

hen purchasing a home, most people focus on what their costs of ownership will be after they close on the sale. While the costs of a mortgage, insurance, taxes, and maintenance need to be accounted for, many people end up overlooking the costs that could occur prior to and during the loan closing. Prior to purchasing a home, there are many unexpected costs that all home buyers need to be aware of: Third Parties The first cost that buyers need to be aware of is the cost of third-party services. When purchasing a new home, most mortgage lenders will require a borrower to order an appraisal and property inspection report. Most buyers will also benefit by hiring an attorney to review the loan documents and handle the closing. While these services are very valuable, they can be quite expensive and could end up costing a few thousand dollars depending on the complexity of the purchase. Buying a home is a huge investment, you want to avoid shortcuts and oversights that may come back to haunt you. Prevention is always better than cure.

Bank Charges Another commonly overlooked expense is the cost of closing with the bank. While mortgage lenders are very forthright with their interest rate offers, they may not always tell you â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and sometimes simply don't know â&#x20AC;&#x201D; exactly what the total closing costs will be until the deal gets closer to completion. Closing costs with banks will include the origination fees, mortgage points, under-

Tax Bill A significant fee that many home buyers forget to include in their budget is the cost of paying city or state taxes. Depending on what state the home is being bought in, there could be hefty purchase costs, mortgage stamp taxes or transfer fees. In many cases, these fees could cost over one percent of the purchase price, not to mention the ongoing property tax bill after you purchase the home. Overall, buying a new home makes perfect financial sense for many Americans. It's just important that you know what onetime expenses to expect so there are no surprises at the closing table. Getting Assistance Now that you are ready to make the commitment, help is just a phone call away. Call us at 888-670-6791.We are ready to assist! n

Buying a Foreclosure/ continued from page 1 The Need for an Experienced Realtor Navigating the landscape of property foreclosures is a specialty field, and caution is the name of the game. As a prospective buyer of a pre-foreclosure, a short-sale or a foreclosed home, an experienced realtor is your best resource. A real estate professional will help you deal with all timelines and requirements, and has the knowledge and expertise to recommend lenders, inspectors, insurance agents and contractors to help you make a decision. Always Consider Future Value Although the initial price might be right, there are additional variables at play in every real estate transaction. What can you expect in terms of appreciation over the short term? What is the long-term outlook for the neighborhood? Will needed repairs and improvements add to the home's value, or simply bring its condition up to standard? Do you plan to live in the home, or is it strictly for resale? Your trusted real estate professional is the best resource to help you thoroughly evaluate all the information about every foreclosure. Help Is Available We are happy to help and share our insight and experience to help you with the buying process. Schedule an appointment today. Call 888-670-6791.n

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GENERATIONS

What Is Advance Care Planning?

dvance care planning is not just about old age. At any age, a medical crisis could leave you too ill to make your own healthcare decisions. Even if you are not sick now, planning for health care in the future is an important step toward making sure you get the medical care you would want, if you are unable to speak for yourself and doctors and family members are making the decisions for you. Many Americans face questions about medical treatment but may not be capable of making those decisions, for example, in an emergency or at the end of life. This article will explain the types of decisions that may need to be made in such cases and questions you can think about now so you're prepared later. It can help you think about who you would want to make decisions for you if you can't make them yourself. It will also discuss ways you can share your wishes with others. Knowing who you want to make decisions on your behalf and how you would decide might take some of the burden off family and friends. What Is Advance Care Planning? Advance care planning involves learning about the types of decisions that might need to be made, considering those decisions ahead of time, and then letting oth-

ers know—both your family and your healthcare providers—about your preferences. These preferences are often put into an advance directive, a legal document that goes into effect only if you are incapacitated and unable to speak for yourself. This could be the result of disease or severe injury—no matter how old you are. It helps others know what type of medical care you want. An advance directive also allows you to express your values and desires related to end-of-life care. You might think of it as a living document—one that you can adjust as your situation changes because of new information or a change in your health. Advance Care Planning Decisions Sometimes decisions must be made about the use of emergency treatments to keep you alive. Doctors can use several artificial or mechanical ways to try to do this. Decisions that might come up at this time relate to: •CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) •Ventilator use •Artificial nutrition (tube feeding) and artificial hydration (IV, or intravenous, fluids) •Comfort care

Getting Started with Advance Care Planning Start by thinking about what kind of treatment you do or do not want in a medical emergency. It might help to talk with your doctor about how your current health conditions might influence your health in the future. For example, what decisions would you or your family face if your high blood pressure leads to a stroke? You can ask your doctor to help you understand and think through your choices before you put them in writing. If you don't have any medical issues now, your family medical history might be a

clue to help you think about the future. Talk with your doctor about decisions that might come up if you develop health problems similar to those of other family members. Research shows that advance directives can make a difference, and that people who document their preferences in this way are more likely to get the care they prefer at the end of life than people who do not.l This content is provided by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health.

Wills, Trusts & Nursing Home Asset Protection Learn how to Protect your Assets and Provide for your Loved ones

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At this consultation, we will discuss issues that include: Nursing home costs- the myth of the 昀ve year look back The advantages of Wills, Living Trusts & Probate How to maintain your privacy and protect your estate if you become disabled (Hint: Not all Powers of Attorney are valid) Why putting property in children’s names may be a mistake Protect one’s spouse when the other needs nursing home care Preserve your estate for your kids if your surviving spouse gets married How Probate works and more importantly, how to avoid probate How you can qualify and use Medi-Cal to pay for nursing home expenses Provide for special needs (disabled) children and grandchildren How you may be able to minimize federal and state taxes

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Rihanna to Release a How to Be a Business Rockstar! Cookbook of 2. Always go to the bathroom before the meeting/interview to check yourself out. Check your hair, teeth, underarms for sweat, reapply lipstick, put on Chapstick for the guys, a little breath spray, and lastly, check your nails for any hanging nails or unruly cuticles. I do not have to tell you your nails should be clean, right? Great moving on đ&#x;&#x2DC;&#x160;

Caribbean Recipes

3.Wear comfortable and clean shoes. Walking in like you are on a tight rope makes everyone uncomfortable. We have all seen this, and it is not pretty. Lol! 4. Solid colors make it easier for the people you are talking with to focus, and because of the setting, it makes you seem well put together. Think about the accessory on the solid background.

ello. I'm Tarsha Gibbons, your lead stylist for everything fashion, color, and fun. Today let's talk about getting ready for that business meeting or interview. I know that business casual is a thing, but to be a Rockstar, let's stay more on the business side. These tips are mainly for my millennial peeps and some of my other folks that may have relaxed their Boss look for a moment. Job search is currently high, and you must ensure that you stand out from the competition. Did you know that most people make their opinion of you within the first 3 seconds of meeting you? Well, they do. You never have to open your mouth, and they have concluded the value that you can bring. We all do it! It shows in our body language and level of energy we put into a conversation. Now that you know the other 3-second rule (not picking the cookie up off the floor) let's ace this meeting/interview with these winning tips. 1. Accessories are your friend when used correctly. They can enhance your outfit immediately. To keep the eyes of anyone that is speaking to you targeted to your face, you can wear a statement necklace, bold colored or nicely printed tie, pull your hair back, or wear a pretty hairpin.

5. Clean smelling perfume or cologne worn as an accent of smell is always the best way to go. When you look great and feel great, your confidence shines through. Isn't that what we want? You are on the countdownâ&#x20AC;Ś3, 2, 1. Friends, ROCK YOUR DAY!! Until next time. l

ihanna is set to release a cookbook.The 32-year-old singer has been keeping people waiting for her ninth studio album for four years, and she's been hard at work cooking something up â&#x20AC;&#x201D; but it's not what fans were expecting. Instead of new music, Rihanna is set to treat fans to a cookbook, where she will share her favourite Caribbean recipes, as well as her own collection of culinary tips, which she's refined throughout lockdown. A source said: "Rihanna's always been a fan of good food and during lockdown she worked up plans for bringing out her own book. It will include some of her favourite Caribbean recipes." The 'Work' hitmaker has also trademarked the phrase 'Sorry, I'm Booked', which she reportedly plans to use on a range of books and kitchen utensils. The insider added to The Sun newspaper's Bizarre column: "The dream would be to bring out her own range of kitchenware too. Rihanna has proven that, as well as being a best-selling artist, she is a

savvy businesswoman and those around her think this next step could be a huge hit." Meanwhile, it was recently reported Rihanna's music was on hold "indefinitely", as the star wanted to focus on her Fenty Beauty empire. Another source said: "Rihanna's ninth album is on hold indefinitely. "She wants to make her millions with beauty and is planning a new skincare line to go alongside her Fenty Cosmetics range. "Her lingerie range has gone down so well too that she feels she needs to strike while the iron's hot. Whenever she drops pics of her modelling the gear, sales go up. "Fans hopes for R9 will be kept on hold while Rihanna builds her beauty empire as she plots to become the next beauty billionaire. "She's realised there is more money in the beauty game than music as record sales die down and live touring faces big competition."l â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BANG

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SPORTS, MUSIC & BOOKS

England International Team Moves to Secure Four of the 124 Players of Jamaican Descent in English Division Soccer BY STAFF WRITER, JAMAICANS.COM

areth Southgate, England manager, is set to discuss the international futures of four English Division soccer players of Jamaican descent. These players include Mason Greenwood of Manchester United and Ainsley Maitland-Niles of Arsenal. A total of 124 players exist in the top four divisions in England who were born to Jamaican parents in England or who have Jamaican grandparents. Reports from TVJ Sports suggest that Kalvin Phillips of Leeds United and Mason Holgate of Everton are also players of interest to Southgate. According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Phillips is scheduled to meet with Southgate about potentially being called up to England’s next squad in September of 2020. Devon Porter, a Jamaican agent, told TVJ Sports that Phillips expressed excitement at representing Jamaica although he acknowledges that Southgate has been monitoring him for some time. Porter said Phillips is “passionate about his Jamaican heritage” and is extremely interested in representing that country.

Jamaica’s head coach Roy Simpson told TVJ Sports that any decision is for each player to make for himself, but if any of the four players do not provide their services to Jamaica, the squad “can’t continue to remain Qatar-motivated and can’t continue to carry the hopes of Jamaican people.” The addition of quality players like Phillips and Maitland-Niles could strongly improve Jamaica’s chances of qualifying for the 2022 World Cup. The Jamaican team is expected to begin its qualification for the 2022 World Cup

in the summer of 2021. One of the younger players who could represent the Reggae Boyz is Ethan Laird of United, who has played for England at the Under-17, Under-18, and Under-19 levels. He is a very talented player, says Porter, who also noted that the four players would love to return to Jamaica and represent the nation. This would add depth to the team, he added, particularly in the right-back position in case of injuries. Porter has been recommending players to the Jamaican FA since 1996 and has stated that several of the players of Jamaican descent who qualify to play for both countries through parental or grandparental ties are interested in playing for Jamaica. However, he does not believe Mason Greenwood would choose to play for Jamaica as he has the potential to reach great heights with Manchester United; he is a near-certain pick in September after his already impressive performance. Holgate and MaitlandNiles are less likely to play on a regular basis for England as they have considerable competition in midfield and just slightly less in defense.l

Koffee, Popcaan And Bob Marley On Obama 2020 Summer Playlist BY XAVIER MURPHY, JAMAICANS.COM

amaican musical artists Koffee, Popcaan, and Bob Marley are included on the summer playlist of former President Barack Obama. The 2020 playlist features the recording “Don’t Walk Away” by John Legend, which features Koffee; “Twist and Turn” from Popcaan, which features Drake and PartyNextDoor; and “Could You Be Loved” by Bob Marley and The Wailers. Rihanna’s “Work” recording, which features Drake, was also included on the Obama playlist. Rihanna made an appearance on the Obamas 2019 summer playlist as well as she was featured on Drake’s song “Too Good.” Obama featured Koffee’s megahit “Toast” on his playlist of favorites in 2019. The Jamaican joined Toots & the Maytals hit “54-46 Was My Number” on the 2019 playlists of both former President Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. Koffee’s single was released in 2018 and won the Single of the Year Award from the Jamaica Music Industry Association. It was also featured in the American horror film “Us” in 2019. Koffee, who was 19 at the time, was the winner of the Best Reggae Album Grammy in 2020. She was the first woman to take home that award and the youngest recipient of the reggae trophy in history. “54-46 Was My Number”

was released in 1968 and was one of the first Jamaican Ska songs to enjoy popularity outside of Jamaica. It has been covered by many artists and has been included in the soundtracks of several films and TV series. In 2016, President Obama’s playlist featured “As We Enter,” which

included a duet by Jamaica’s Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, the youngest son of reggae legend Bob Marley, and the artist Nas. The songs of the 2020 Summer playlist by former US president Barak Obama can be found on his Twitter account.l

Reading for Summer

Down by the River: AfroCaribbean Rhymes, Games, and Songs for Children

Grace Hallworth is a Trinidadian author

his book was a very unique read, since none of the books I have read thus far have included rhyming games and songs. The author used the book as a format to expose Afro-Caribbean chants for children which were each beautifully depicted in illustrations with children acting them out. First, the author states in the introduction that she met people of many different races growing up, but that they all kept the same Trinidadian culture. Although this compilation includes silly chants and games, this book represents the shared traditions and culture of these people. The pictures depict children at school, sometimes of all different races, looking happy and joyous to be playing together. These pictures show how no matter your skin color, it is possible to come together as one cohesive group. Also, for readers, the pictures and words combined depict the Trinidadian culture. On one page, the chant is called “Going Shopping” and illustrates a Trinidadian market. This would be great for students learning about different places in the world because the chants would be something relatable to students and draw them in while subtly showing them a completely different culture. Conversely, for any students who have misconceptions about not relating to Trinidadian culture, they can identify with certain parts of the text and see how children universally have many of the same experiences while growing up. The main idea of this book is to reflect on the Trinidadian culture from the perspective of a young child. l —librarything.com

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Four Divorce Predictions and Their Antidotes do the dishes?” Contempt is so toxic that it actually wreaks havoc on our bodies and leaves recipients more susceptible to infectious diseases, like colds and flus. Hearing contempt typically makes people feel very attacked. This leaves them unable to listen to the important message their partners are trying to communicatewhich escalates the argument.

BY JACKIE WIELICK, ESTES THERAPY

fter over 40 years of research, Dr. John Gottman has seen four main predictors of divorce and unhappy relationships. Divorce or separation doesn’t come without warning. You or your partner isn’t going to go to sleep completely happy with your relationship and then wake up the next morning and think “never mind” for no reason. So, what should you be looking out for? Criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. Criticism This is a very common horseman that can show up in all relationships. Typically, it comes from a place of the speaker just wanting to be seen and heard in their pain and their perspective on an issue. Criticism is stating a complaint as a flaw in your partner’s personality, issuing blame, or a global statement. It typically starts with the word “YOU.” This can look like “You are so lazy, you never do the dishes when I ask you to.” When people hear criticism, they turn off actually hearing the message underneath it, and typically go to defensiveness- making it so their partners won’t be heard.

Criticism Antidote Try to use a complaint instead. Complaints are about one’s own experience, and the specific action they feel upset about. For the most effective complaint, start with an “I” statement to state your specific feelings. Then state the specific situation. Finally, state the positive need that you have. A positive need is what you do want, rather than what you don’t want. This can look like: “I feel frustrated when I come home from work and see the sink full of dishes. Can you please do the dishes on the nights I work late?” Return the sentiment. Ask your partner if there is something you can do on their difficult days that would make their day easier. Although in the

moment it can be hard, using this format helps the listener actually hear their partners important feelings and needs. Contempt Contempt was found in the research to be the most destructive of all. When we make a critical statement that comes from a place of “I’m better/ smarter/ kinder than you are,” it is contempt. It can take on forms such as mimicking, name calling, sarcasm, ridicule, as well as eye-rolls and other non-verbals. Although very destructive, people who use contempt are trying to be seen and heard by their partners in their pain and perspective. It can look like “Oh really? You are ‘too busy’ laying on the couch to

Contempt Antidote Contempt usually arises when the friendship in the relationship is deteriorating, and partners feel unseen and unappreciated. Creating a culture of fondness and admiration in the relationship will work to mitigate this. This can include giving affirmations, appreciations, asking open ended questions, creating rituals together, and overall treating each other with respect. Try to look for what your partner is doing right instead of what they are doing wrong- and tell them this. Think of how nice it feels when your partner tells you how funny/smart/creative/etc. you are. They feel the same when you say those nice things to them. It creates a more positive and supportive atmosphere for your relationship. Getting in the habit of describing your own feelings and poscontinued on page 24

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS Antidotes/ continued from page 23 itive needs will help with this too. Once friendship and appreciation become a part of the culture within the relationship, contempt will have a harder time sneaking in. Defensiveness Defensiveness is usually an attempt for people to protect themselves or to ward off a perceived attack, and so it understandably tends follow after criticism and contempt. Defensiveness can take the forms of a counterattack (“YOU didn’t do the dishes either!”) or whining. Language such as “But,” “no,” and “at least,” signal defensiveness to the listener. Defensiveness is really a form of blame and ends up escalating conflict discussions because partners who receive defensiveness continue to feel unheard. If the relationship is in a very negative place, people will hear criticism all the time, even if it’s not being spoken- and act with defensiveness accordingly. Defensiveness Antidote Accepting responsibility for at least some part of the problem is the antidote to defensiveness. Each person in an argument has a valid perception and reality. Even though it can feel tough to do in the heat of the moment, signal to your partner that you hear their pain and frustration. Take some responsibility for your part. These will work wonders to de-

deescalate so that you both can listen and understand each other in the conversation. The key here is to respect your partner’s need for the break, and for both people to promise to return to the discussion after. Try not to ruminate about the interaction during the break, or else it will be hard to cool off. After taking some time to self soothe, both partners can come together and try the conversation again in a calmer, empathetic and more creative way.

escalate the conflict. Language such as “I could see why you would feel that way” will validate your partner. Responding with “You’re right, I didn’t do the dishes tonight” show you taking responsibility. Phrases like “I didn’t know that X made you feel that way, I’ll work on that” help your partner feel heard. Stonewalling Stonewalling is aptly named because this is what it can feel like to partners – an impenetrable stone wall. This shutting down, withdrawing, or checking out typically happens when criticism, contempt, and defensiveness have become too overwhelming and painful. Withdrawing from the interaction feels like a form of self-protection. When overwhelmed by the criticisms or contempt, your heart rate will increase, and you will feel anx-

ious. This is the greatest predictor of stonewalling. This is when our body turns on fight-or-flight mode, which makes complex problem solving and listening impossible. Our bodies can’t process social interactions like they normally can. Partners on the other side of the stone wall typically feel very alone and unheard in the interaction, which can continue to escalate the conflict. Stonewalling Antidote Self-soothing, such as guided relaxation and breathing exercises, is the antidote to stonewalling. This will work to get your heart rate back down, so you are able to stay connected in the conversation. We want you to experience your partner as a source of warmth and comfort. Take a 20-minute break from the conflict to self sooth. This will help both partners

Criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling show up and work to keep the negative cycles in your relationship going. Every couple will fall into negative cycles every now and then, but it’s being able to identify and rectify those cycles that is key to a lasting and happy relationship.l About Jackie Wielick Jackie has worked at The Gottman Institute in Couples Services for four years, where she received significant exposure, training, and understanding of Gottman Method Couples Therapy. She also received training in Couples in Addiction Recovery, a program designed to target the needs of couples where addiction has come into their life, and Art and Science of Love Program Educator training, aimed towards training professionals in hosting the world-renowned Art and Science of Love Workshop. Article courtesy www.estestherapy.com

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HEALTH

Ways to Manage Post-COVID 19 Related Anxiety BY LINDA N. SPECIAL TO CAW

radually life is getting back to the 'new normal'—wearing facial clothing, social distancing, and temperature monitoring. States have reopened, and businesses have started operating slowly but steadily. In a few weeks, over 700 thousand students in New York, will return to school readiness for the 2020-2021 school year. Surprisingly, rather than feel relieved, people find themselves feeling quite anxious. The nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath crisis has increased the exhibition of mental health issues among the general population, especially among frontline responders, with some people experiencing increased anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. What is Anxiety? – Case Study Imagine a 47-year-old New Yorker with two children under the ages of 10 years, sheltered in-place for the past four months. She knew members of the community that passed away from COVID19 during the peak of the pandemic. Although the danger is no longer looming, the presence still lingers. Even more

than this, she is worried about the mounting bills, since the government's financial support has drastically reduced. With the hope of additional support in the future, her six-year and eight-year-old-kids are expected to return to a blended learning model by fall. She is also worried about ensuring that they don't fall behind in their academic performance while keeping them safe. On top of this, the housing moratorium in the State of New York will expire in September, meaning she has to start considering moving out of New York if she is unable to find cheaper accommodation for her family. While in thought, she noticed some tightness in her chest and an increase in breathing. This event has happened a couple of times in the past few weeks. During a virtual medical consultation, she reported feeling suffocated, unable to fall asleep or stay asleep for longer than three hours, decreased appetite, and low energy at home. Her Primary Care Provider (PCP) referred her to a psychiatrist, who gathered additional complaints about the previous symptoms shared with her PCP during the virtual intake interview. For instance, she reported always worrying about things all her life, though without any need for psychiatric manage-

ment. She had experienced an acute panic attack in the past after a house fire accident. There was no evidence of confusion or incidents of hallucinations during the interview. The clinical diagnosis was acute panic attacks and worsening of generalized anxiety disorder. In a webinar hosted by Mental Health America, using existing methods for managing anxiety about germs and other psychological distress symptoms as a case study, there were guidelines recommended by experts working in the field about coping with COVID-19 related anxieties. They used Agoraphobia and Germaphobia as forms of anxiety disorders related to COVID-19. Karen Lynn Cassiday, Ph.D. and colleague Keith

Bredemeier Ph.D., explored the manifestations, causes, and treatment of the disorders. Anxiety-Driven Responses According to Dr. Karen Lynn Cassiday (Ph.D.), certified trainer in the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, & Clinical Fellow of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, she noted that '…our mind is wired to pay attention to threats, negative news'. Hence, mental health problems develop from over heightened awareness and focus on danger around us, including the immediate environment. She suggested changing continued on page 26

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HEALTH Post COVID-19 Related Anxiety/ continued from page 25 your focus, with the explanation that typically, there are three primary responses to feelings of threat: fight, freeze, or flight responses. Each of these responses relates to perspective. Feelings of anger and fear drive an individual's 'fight response' state. When the individual focuses on information that justifies their feeling of anger or fear, it results in anxiety." An example is an outrage from public-face-mask wearing advocates vs. non-compliers. For those with feelings of outrage and anger towards others with opposing views, anxiety arises from thinking about how people's non-compliance impacts public health or who should dictate how to live. Such feelings create stress, which only tolerance can solve, according to Dr. Karen, "…we need to be tolerant; no two of us is exactly alike." For other people, they find themselves 'feeling stuck. This response is the 'freeze response.' According to the expert, for persons in this category of response pattern, it often accompanies other existing mental health issues, resulting in the person appearing undecided and unable to do anything during this period. She explained that it is essential to try to understand that "we can't eliminate risk or protect the population," so there are things that cannot be avoided, so people need to learn how to manage such situa-

tions. Another factor is being intolerant of uncertainty, typically exhibited when people don't like surprises and would galvanize into action to ensure that they minimize the uncertainties. The expert explained that such persons want to 'play it safe,' sometimes "taking a safety strategy and taking action, which can sometimes become irrational."

tions. The last type of response is 'flight,' examples as a post COVID response include people moving to a less populated area and ordering things online rather than going to the stores. Unfortunately, such actions sometimes result in people living less than a healthy lifestyle, losing valuable opportunities due to the fear of interaction. She suggested that ultimately, "people should find a balanced way to socialize, bearing in mind that while adults can manage isolation to an extent, children cannot thrive in isolation. " All these forms of responses affect the population's mental health. Factors that Reinforce Anxiety Over time, research shows that there are reinforcing factors to feelings of anxiety. Among these were a negative reinforcement, which often happens when people dwell on things that cause them to be anxious and feed these negative emo-

Managing Anxiety During PostCOVID 19 Pandemic Among the various suggestions discussed as ways of coping with the pandemic's stress and anxiety, three methods, mentioned as better alternatives to managing concerns compared to problematic habits such as compulsive shopping, comfort-eating, substance use, increased alcohol consumption include: Addressing treatment for persons exhibiting clinically diagnosed symptoms of panic attacks, fear of feeling unsafe in the environment (agoraphobia), or fear of germs (germaphobia), Keith Bredemeier, Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Director of Research Training Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety discussed how exposure therapy used as a treatment method—explaining the in vivo, imaginal or interoceptive exposure methods as treatment options. According to him, the treatment option is influenced by the patient's preference and presenting symptoms. However, for members of the general

population, without a clinical diagnosis of an anxiety disorder, experiencing symptoms can make them live an unhealthy lifestyle. In addition to engaging in regular exercises, eating a healthy diet, having an adequate sleep, two additional strategies to overcome anxiety recommended are practicing gratitude, and developing good humor. In practicing gratitude, journaling is a key technique. Writing down what you are grateful for at the end of each day is therapeutic. When practiced over time, the benefits are immense. Experts recommend,"…focus on specific things, small ones per day with an actual event and stay with it for a period…" Developing good humor: to successfully achieve this therapy, practice mindful meditation, find your funny in your pandemic situation, watch comic movies or read funny books, ask people around you "what is the funniest thing that happened to you today." Ensure you curb sarcasm but focus on "having a good laugh." Our perception influences how we process events, and anxiety is also a product of an individual's perception of risk. It is worth realizing that chances are personal, changing, and evolving. To curtail stress, we need social support, and that is the reason social distancing takes a toll if not well managed, but there are ways to thrive, despite the circumstances.l

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KITCHEN CORNER

Pot Roast Tacos with Chimichurri Recipe courtesy of “Always Eat After 7 PM” Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 8 Chimichurri: 1 1/2 cups fresh Italian parsley 1 cup fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped 1/4 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon water 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper Tacos: 3 cups chuck roast, slow cooked and chopped 8 yellow corn tortillas (6 inches) 1 ripe avocado, pitted and sliced 4 radishes, sliced 1/4 cup queso fresco, crumbled To make chimichurri: In food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, onion and garlic until chopped. Add olive oil, lemon juice, water, salt and red pepper; process until fully combined. To assemble tacos: In medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook chopped chuck roast 5 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in 1/2 cup chimichurri. In grill pan, char tortillas then fill evenly with meat, avocado, radishes and queso fresco. Serve with remaining chimichurri. Nutritional information per serving: 410 calories; 24 g fat; 12 g carbohydrates; 366 mg sodium; 2 g fiber; 41 g protein; 1 g sugar.

Family Foods with a Family Weight Loss Focus Weight FAMILY FEATURES

osing weight and focusing on a healthful diet may lead you back to the same tried-and-true tricks, however, conventional wisdom doesn’t always pay dividends. Some eating plans may offer up new twists to help you and your family eat meals you enjoy without forgoing your health goals. For example, “Always Eat After 7 PM,” written by Joel Marion, CISSN, NSCA-CPT, five-time best-selling e-book author and co-founder of the e-commerce supplement company BioTrust Nutrition, debunks popular diet myths and offers an easy-to-follow diet that accelerates fat-burning and allows you to indulge in your most intense cravings by eating the majority of your calories at night. The outlined plan features a 14-day “acceleration phase” designed for rapid results, a “main phase” when you’ll learn which fat-burning foods to eat to achieve your weight loss goals and a “lifestyle phase” to keep the weight off for good.

Conventional wisdom dictates that it’s best to avoid carbs, eat an early dinner and never eat immediately before bed. However, Marion debunks the myths underlying traditional dieting with a simple, highly effective weight loss program allowing readers to enjoy social dinners without restriction, satisfy nighttime hunger with fat-burning sweet and salty pre-bedtime snacks and indulge cravings with strategically timed cheat meals. With straightforward food lists, easy-to-follow meal plans and recipes for each phase, this can be a simpler, more enjoyable way to lose weight without feeling restricted. Taken directly from the book, these recipes for Pot Roast Tacos with Chimichurri, Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet and Chili Loaded Baked Potato can help you take part in the program while enjoying time with loved ones at the family table. Learn more about the diet and book at joelmarion.com.

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CONVERSATIONS

Trump Administration Ends Pharmacy Coupons When Patients Need Them Most BY PETER J. PITTS

or chronically ill Americans, the economic damage from COVID19 could be nearly as life-threatening as the virus itself. More than 40 million workers have filed for unemployment since the beginning of the outbreak. For many, the financial challenges of joblessness have made it harder than ever to afford their insurance companies' medication copays. That's why a new decision from the Trump administration couldn't have come at a worse time. The rule, which was finalized in May, enables insurers to artificially inflate patients' out-of-pocket drug costs. In so doing, it creates unnecessary challenges for Americans who are already struggling to stay healthy. For many patients, high pharmacy bills were a heavy burden even before COVID-19. A November Kaiser Family Foundation survey found that half of patients in poor health had difficulty paying for their medications. Three in ten reported skipping doses for financial reasons. This "non-adherence" causes 125,000 deaths each year and as many as a quarter of hospitalizations. It also inflates U.S. healthcare spending by up to $289 billion annually.

Now that coronavirus lockdowns have sent our economy into a tailspin, drug adherence rates are likely to plummet further as Americans look for new ways to make ends meet. Consider that a quarter of the country has dipped into savings in recent weeks, while 14 percent have borrowed money from friends or family, per Northwestern Mutual. It's only a matter of time before large numbers of Americans stop filling the prescription medicines they need. In times like these, helping the hardesthit patients take their medications ought to be a top priority. Yet the Trump administration has done precisely the opposite. The new rule from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) would help insurance companies nullify the prescription drug coupons that make

medicines affordable for millions of Americans. In many health plans, patients pay for their own drugs up to a certain limit, known as a deductible, after which they are responsible for a smaller copay. The patient remains on the hook for those copays until he or she reaches the federally mandated out-of-pocket limit, which in 2020 was $16,300 for families. To help defray out-of-pocket costs, drug firms usually offer generous coupons on brand-name medications. For cash-strapped patients, these discounts can be life-changing. About a fifth of commercially insured patients use coupons to lower their pharmacy costs. These coupons cut out-of-pocket drug spending by $13 billion in 2018. Just as important, drug coupons have been

shown to increase adherence for everything from cholesterol medication to anti-inflammatory drugs. These coupons only benefit patients if they count towards the out-of-pocket limit. Otherwise, patients would still be on the hook for huge pharmacy bills. Unfortunately, the new CMS rule allows insurers to stop counting coupons towards the out-of-pocket cap. That means insurance giants will extract more money out of struggling Americans' pockets. Officials in states like Virginia, West Virginia, Illinois, and Arizona have already banned this practice. Unless other states follow suit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or Congress intervenes and passes legislation nullifying the rule â&#x20AC;&#x201D; millions of Americans could face higher pharmacy bills while battling the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. Barring intervention, America could face a pandemic of non-adherence that puts millions of lives at risk. Unlike COVID-19, this new public health emergency won't be caused by a wily virus, but by the callousness of Washington policymakers. l Peter J. Pitts, a former FDA associate commissioner, is president of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest.

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ELECTIONS 2020

How to Make Sure Your Vote Counts In November BY AMY DACEY THE CONVERSATION

he time is now! Voting in the presidential election will begin in many states in just a few weeks – as early as Sept. 4 in North Carolina. Every state’s regulations and procedures are different, so it is vital that you understand the requirements and opportunities to vote where you live. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready to vote, and that your vote will count. Check your registration Make sure that you are registered to vote at your current address. You may not have voted in a while. You may have moved or changed your name. You may have forgotten when you last registered to vote. Calling or visiting your secretary of state’s office or local Board of Elections may be a good place to start. You can also visit Vote.org, Rock the Vote, I am a voter or the U.S. Vote Foundation, all nonprofit, nonpartisan websites providing lots of detailed information about voting rights, registration

and the process of voting. It took only a few minutes online for me to verify my own registration and voter ID number. The federal government offers lots of useful voting information, too. Not registered? Register now! If you’re not registered – whether you have never registered or your registration is out of date – there is still time. September 22 is National Voter

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Registration Day, when millions of individuals register to vote. Each state has its own process and deadlines, and you may be able to register online through Vote.org, which can take less than two minutes. If you’d rather register to vote on paper, download and print a simple form from the federal government, which asks you to provide some personal information, like your name and address. The instructions give state-specific details and provide the mailing address you need to send the form to. While you’re at it, encourage your friends to register too. Make a plan to vote Not everyone who is registered to vote actually casts a ballot. You’re more likely to actually vote if you make a plan. You’ll need to find out when to vote in person and where to do it. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 – but different cities and towns have different voting hours. Many communities have several polling places, and you need to go to the right one, depending on where you live. Make sure you know where to go. In some places you can vote in person for some number of days ahead of Election Day, often at the main municipal government building. Your town office – and its website – will likely have the dates and location information prominently displayed. If you don’t want to vote in person, either because of your work or personal schedule, or because of the pandemic, think about voting by mail. Some states will mail you a ballot automatically, either because they conduct their elections by mail or because they have made special provisions to do so as a result of the pandemic. In other states you have to request one – and sometimes you need to provide a specific excuse for wanting to avoid in-person voting. If you’re voting by mail, you may need to pay postage to send your ballot back in. Call your local election office and ask how much you’ll need – and get the right postage. You can order postage online for

free delivery – and splitting the cost of a book of stamps is another great opportunity to share voting with a friend. In 2016, nearly one-quarter of U.S. votes were cast by mail. Research and evidence show that it is safe and reliable – though with large numbers of people expected to vote by mail this year, it’s best to mail your ballot back as early as possible to make sure it has plenty of time to arrive before it needs to be counted. The U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing your ballot at least a week before the deadline. Large amounts of mail also might mean you don’t get your ballot in the mail until just before the election. If it arrives with less than a week to go, call your local Board of Elections or municipal clerk immediately to find out what your options are. You may be able to drop off the ballot rather than mailing it in, and you should also still have the option to vote in person, either on or before Election Day. If you’re worried about the safety of voting by mail, there are plenty of administrative and legal protections for mailed-in ballots, and steep penalties for those who tamper with election mail. Set reminders to vote Many people set reminders for all sorts of important things: medical appointments, friends’ birthdays, bill payment dates and so on. Add voting to your calendar – including alerts to request a mailin ballot, to vote early, to mail your ballot and certainly for Election Day itself. Tell your friends and family Every vote that is cast is a vital contribution to the nation’s future. Encourage everyone you know to vote. You can even invite people to your calendar events – or share your plans on social media, in an email to family and friends. Send texts to people you know. Pledge to call 10 people and ask them to vote, and ask each of them to call 10 more people. Do not be intimidated or afraid If you make your plan and follow the requirements of your state and local government, you can cast your ballot and be certain that your vote will count. You may encounter people claiming there could be “widespread” voter fraud or that the election is somehow “rigged.” But the biggest problem is that so few people actually vote: In 2016, 40% of eligible American voters didn’t cast a ballot. It is your right to vote. Exercise that right proudly and make your voice heard.l

Amy Dacey is the Executive Director of the Sine Institute of Policy and Politics, American University

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Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 105

Articles inside

Care Planning?