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Nominated for a Webby
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Bob Marley’s Documentary Series Nominated for Webby Award An Unforgettable Fruity Flavor
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BY STEPHANIE KOURY JAMAICANS.COM
The 12-part mini documentary series “Bob Marley: Legacy” from Universal Music Enterprises has been nominated for a 2021 Webby Award in the Music category for the title of “Best of the Internet.” The 2021 edition of the Webby Awards is the 25th year they have been presented. “Bob Marley: Legacy” streams on YouTube and takes viewers on a tour through Marley’s music and messages. “Freedom Fighter,” the latest episode of the documentary series, includes a number of interviews with artists like LL Cool J and 2 Chainz, along with writers, social activists, family members, and others, such as activists Tamika Mallory, Mary Hooks, author Aya de Leon, and journalist Dani McClain. It explores the way the issues Marley spoke out against, including police brutality, still resonate and have importance in what is the 75th year of his birth. According to Dr. Glenn A. Griffin, professor of Critical Theory and Social Justice at Occidental College, there are many ironies that surround the idea of freedom in the United States today, including the condition of immigrants, of women of color, continued lynching and killing of African American men, that it is important to understand what Bob Marley might contribute to the moment. Each episode of the series focuses on a particular part of Marley’s life and legacy. To date, seven parts are available for streaming: 75 Years a Legend (Episode 1), Women Rising (Episode 2), Righteousness (Episode 3), Rhythm of the Game (Episode 4), Punky Reggae Party (Episode 5), Ride Natty Ride (Episode 6), and Freedom Fighter (Episode 7). The first episode was released in February 2020 and received more than 1 million views from around the world. The series offers fans a cinematic journey through Marley’s life, legacy, and relevance to the present day. Marley is one of the most-followed posthumous artists on social media, and the series seeks to bring his legacy to new audiences via innovative content and technology. May 11 will mark the 40th anniversary of Marley’s death. He is the most recognized Jamaican in the world and considered the global ambassador for reggae music. Marley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has sold over 20 million records. The Webby is one of the oldest internet awards to be presented and have been called “the Oscars of the Internet.” They are presented every year by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, which comprises more than 2,000 industry experts and technology innovators. The awards are presented in the categories of websites, advertising and media, online film and video, mobile sites and apps, and social. The winners will be announced on May 18, 2021, at a virtual awards show. Two winners are chosen in each category, one by the members of the Academy and one by the public. l
Bob Marley. Editorial credit: spatuletail / Shutterstock.com Fresh fruit is finally in season. When the sun is out and kids are hitting the pool, it’s also time to indulge in some sweet fruit flavors. Watermelon, berries, bananas and more can all be found near perfect ripeness at grocery stores or farmer’s markets during the warm summer months. On a hot day, there is almost nothing better than trying something new that sounds delicious. Throw your apron on, prepare your kitchen and get baking. If you’re craving something sweet with no ideas where to start, try this sweet Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit. It’s tangy, rich and allows you to escape to the summer oasis of your dreams, at least for a few minutes. It has the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake mixed with a hint of tart lemon juice. Topped with raspberries, mint and oranges, the burst of fresh fruit enhances the cheesecake flavor. It’s the perfect sweet treat for summer for people of all ages with its bright colors and varying flavors. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter then press into a springform pan. Beat cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, three eggs, lemon juice and vanilla extract then pour it on top of the graham cracker mixture. Bake for 50-55 minutes before cooling completely in the fridge and adding fruit and mint leaves. The outcome is a fluffy cheesecake with a small hint of lemon topped with your favorite fresh fruits. It’s a delightful, sweet and satisfying recipe your family can make again and again to enjoy during those warm summer months.
—Culinary.net 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 3 eggs 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 orange, peeled and separated 8 raspberries 3 mint leaves, for garnish
Directions
Heat oven to 350 F.
In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan.
In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed. Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle. Top with mint leaves. (FamilyFeatures)l
Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
BY MIKE BROEMMEL
Asurprising number of marriages end within the first 12 months of a wedding, according to the American Bar Association Family Law Division. Although the end of any marriage is based on unique facts and circumstances, there are three primary reasons why people divorce within a year of marrying.
Discovery of Secrets
One of the three most common reasons a marriage ends in a short period of time is the discovery of secrets by a spouse. In some cases, both spouses end up discovering something significant and previously undisclosed about their marital partners. In regard to secrets discovered, a criminal record is a common concealed fact revealed after marriage. Although in some cases a criminal record involves only a minor offense or offenses, time and time again a spouse discovers the existence of a serious crime in his or her partner's past. The second common "secret" discovered after nuptials is a significant debt issue. A spouse learns that his or her partner accumulated large debt before the marriage, oftentimes debt that is deeply in arrears. As an aside, part of the due diligence process a person should perform before agreeing to marry is obtaining independent verification of a prospective spouse's past, including both that individual's criminal and financial history. Love can conquer many things in life, but undisclosed burdensome debt and a serious criminal record can become insurmountable issues if discovered following a wedding.
Infidelity
About 60 percent of men and over 40 percent of women will be unfaithful to their spouses during the course of a marriage, according to the American Bar Association. Infidelity during the first year of a marriage represents another of the primary reasons why a divorce occurs during that time period. Infidelity as a divorce motivator during the first year of marriage occurs at about the same ratio with people who lived together before getting married and those that did not. Online and non-physical infidelity is becoming a growing underlying cause of divorce within a year after marriage in recent years as well.
Financial Problems
Finally, when it comes to divorce within a year of a wedding, financial problems frequently represent motivating factors to end a marriage. This includes financial issues that develop after the nuptials. Many times it also includes financial problems that predate the marriage that do not improve or worsen time following the wedding ceremony.
Conclusion
Although there exist an array of other reasons why marriages fail in the short speed, those referenced in this article are the most common. In some cases, a marriage fails because more than one of these commonplace reasons occur simultaneously.l
Celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week
BY CHRIS TOBIAS
professionals. National Travel and Tourism Week is celebrated in the United States from Monday, May 3, 2021, The travel agents, whose businesses have survived the travel bans and restrictions brought on by the global pandemic, are those who are doing more than simply through Sunday, May 9, 2021. During booking trips. Travel agents are taking this Covid-19 global pandemic, with on the role of 'trusted travel advisor' and lockdowns, travel bans, travel restric- are teaching their clients the new normal tions, forced quarantines, and the need to for travel in 2021, the age of the global wear a face mask to travel, many people pandemic. They let their clients know may question whether or not we should where it is safe to travel and the latest still be celebrating travel and tourism this travel requirements, such as face coveryear. However, there is still reason to cel- ings and covid-19 tests. Furthermore, ebrate National Travel and Tourism they are doing the majority of this online. Week in 2021 as there was in 1983 when Thus, computer savvy online travel the United States Congress passed a resolution to commemorate the industry for a week during May. We celebrate what travel and tourism mean as far as our enhanced way of life, increased jobs, and economic growth. Since 1983, Travel and Tourism Week has been recognized with events recognizing travel and tourism professionals and the industry itself. While this is currently a national celebration, industry statistics show that an average of $8.3 trillion was generated into the economy from people traveling worldwide before the global pandemic. Therefore, there was a cause for celebration for many countries worldwide that benefit from tourism dollars. The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism is celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week with a virtual party for Travel Agents to highlight the island's beauty. Studies showed that 50% of those travel dollars were generated from travel to the Caribbean. In addition to the Bahamas, Jamaica is another one of the Caribbean islands leading the way for tourism and bringing in the most tourists from the United States. Travel slowed down dramatically during the global pandemic. However, the travel and tourism industry did not come to a screeching halt. Travel leaders worldwide were still connecting throughout the pandemic to strategize on how to rebuild travel safely. Juergen T. Steinmetz, who has consistently worked in the travel and tourism industry since he was a teenager in Germany, was one of the industry leaders who grabbed the reigns to show leadership during the pandemic. Steinmetz, Chairman of the World Tourism Network, organized travel leaders, Ministers of Tourism, travel companies, heads of tourism boards, and other supporters from over 100 countries as part of the Rebuilding Travel and Safer Travel movements. Representatives from Jamaica, Trinidad, South Africa, and more were included in the campaign. Even our very own Victoria Falk, awardwinning CEO of Passionate Travel Inc., from New York, was recognized as a supporter of the Rebuilding Travel movement. Steinmetz encourages people to "get engaged, participate, and watch the latest travel trends and news updates." Travel is indeed coming back, and people want to know where they can travel to safely. Therein lies the increased need for travel agents benefit from selling travel worldwide without being limited to what is happening within the confines of their city. Now is a great time to consider starting an online home-based travel business. Yes, people are still traveling. They are just traveling differently. When international travel dwindled, Americans took to the roads and went to domestic locations. Las Vegas, Florida, and Texas saw increased visitors during the pandemic. Travel surveys show that over 62% of Americans have taken road trips during this pandemic, while Cancun and Jamaica remained two of the most popular international travel destinations. The rollout of vaccinations has reportedly helped to revive international travel. Reportedly, over 4.23 million people have visited Jamaica during this pandemic, and the numbers are expected to climb. Millions of Americans surveyed indicated their plans to travel during July 2021. Thus, presenting an opportunity for business-minded people to position themselves in front of the expected travel boom. Some of the questions asked to Passionate Travel Inc. are, "Where can I go?" "I just want to go somewhere. Where can I travel to that will be safe for my family and me? "Do I have to wear a mask? Do I have to get vaccinated?" Travelers who were accustomed to booking their travel arrangements for themselves are now seeking assistance from travel professionals because they want the added security of knowing they are doing things as safely and correctly as possible. Thus, increasing the demand for travel professionals and agents. Celebrate this National Travel and Tourism Week by finding out how you can become a certified travel specialist with your own online home-based business. Learn how to book travel, use travel to raise funds for churches, charity, and other non-profit organizations, grow a profitable online, home-based travel business, get tax advantages, and enjoy a better quality of life. Go to www.nacc.nyc/travelagent to register for the 4-week online travel agent training program today. Secure your spot in the class and get ahead of the travel boom.l
Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson: Candidate for Civil Court Judge
BY DIANA BRACHO, ESQ
Presently, I would presume that most Americans know the importance of voting, considering the 2020 presidential election had the highest participation record ever recorded. I would also speculate that most Americans do not see the importance of voting for their local civil court judges, especially in New York, where they can be elected to a civil court position yet sit in a family court position. The nuances of the New York civil court judge position are not frequently advertised, but the information is available on the nycourts.gov website. Unlike presidents, senators, Councilmen, and Mayors, civil court judges have the authority to order citizens to pay, or not pay, a disputed debt. Civil court Judges also decide contract disputes, foreclosures, and real property matters under $25000, which accounts for 25% of cases heard in New York. Moreover, in New York, when a person is elected to a civil court judge position, they may also hear Criminal and Family court cases. To be clear, the person that is elected as a civil court judge in Brooklyn may also decide your freedom, child custody, and child support matters. Thus, Brooklynites must select the most qualified person for this highly sensitive position. Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson is a highly qualified woman. Casilda is running to serve Brooklyn as its civil court judge in the November 2021 elections. Judge Roper-Simpson is currently an Administrative Law Judge at the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Nevertheless, Judge RoperSimpson is running for the opportunity to serve Brooklyn as a civil court judge since it is a critical position that many people are not qualified to hold. Still, Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson is more than highly skilled to decide on all matters assigned to her in this position.
What qualifications does Casilda possess to serve as a civil court judge in
Brooklyn? Judge Roper-Simpson has over 30 years of experience as an attorney in New York. She graduated from Brooklyn Law School in 1987. She has since argued hundreds of cases in Federal and State courts. Judge Roper-Simpson specializes in various legal fields, including criminal defense, personal injury, civil rights, family law, civil litigation, landlord/tenant disputes, labor/employment, and immigration. She is a Brooklyn native, and her parents immigrated from Panama, which means she has the personal knowledge of the issues that many Brooklynites face daily. Moreover, Judge Roper-Simpson is a mother and grandmother, which means she has a real-world understanding of the many challenges that families face daily.l
Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson Photo credit: Roper-Simpson Campaign
Listen to Roper-Simpson’s interview at www.pppradio.nyc
Michael Hollingsworth Wants to be the Next City Council Member for District 35
BY CAW EDITORIAL TEAM
tice for residents of his community of spoke about going to block parties in Crown Heights. Hollingsworth promises Brooklyn with his siblings, their father
Michael Hollingsworth, long- to continue fighting for tenants' rights in taking them to Brooklyn's Labor Day time Brooklynite, and tenant the role of City Council Member for Parade, and how the neighbors in the advocate believes he is the Brooklyn's District 35. family's Brooklyn neighborhood would best person to replace term-limited Michael Hollingsworth discussed his watch out for each other's children and incumbent Laurie Cuombo as City run for City Council District 35 during correct them if they were misbehaving. Council Member for District 35 in an exclusive interview with Caribbean "There used to be a sense of community. Brooklyn, New York. District 35 American Weekly, which can be heard on Families still found a way to make the includes central Brooklyn neighbor- People, Power, & Politics Radio Show. neighborhood feel like a community," hoods such as Fort Greene, Prospect Hollingsworth does not see his lack of stated Hollingsworth. Heights, Clinton Hill, Bedford- actual political experience as a deficit in At this time, Michael Hollingsworth is Stuyvesant, and Crown Heights. the race for City Council. Quite the counting on his Brooklyn community to Hollingsworth has resided in Crown opposite. Hollingsworth hopes that come through for him with their votes. Heights for over 40 years and has been Brooklynites will recognize that he has "I've been humbled by the amount of an integral part of the community. already been fighting for them voluntari- support, so far, that we've received from Hollingsworth's passion for activism ly for over five years and has been com- people. The message is connecting. We began in 2016. At that time, he, and other mitted to bettering the community at are finding out that people don't want tenants in the rent-stabilized apartment large. more of the same. They don't want somebuilding where they resided, received a notice that their rent-stabilized apartment building would be converted into highpriced condominiums. Michael Hollingsworth organized the tenants to fight for housing justice and reached out to the Crown Heights Tenant Union to work with them to fight the issue. That would be the first of many fights that tenant advocate, Michael Hollingsworth, would take on and help win for the sake of assuring housing jus "There are a lot of issues to tackle, and it's time we have someone who comes from the neighborhood who is not politically connected and truly fight for the folks who haven't had a voice in a long time," Hollingsworth stated during the interview. "When you talk to most people who live in this District, housing is their number one issue, the lack of truly affordable housing, and that's the main issue I want to champion in City Council," added Hollingsworth. Hollingsworth shared the issues he feels are currently affecting the Black community: "…education, the environment, policing, and criminal justice", as well as "healthcare, economic opportunity…and no jobs." Hollingsworth's love for Brooklyn was evident, as he recalled earlier days during his youth, being raised by his mother, who was from Alabama, and his father, who was originally from Guyana. He one who is politically polished, but someone who comes from where they come from and has lived the experience…," shared Hollingsworth with Caribbean American Weekly. Anyone interested in volunteering to help during the campaign can go to www.m4bk.com to read more and sign up.l
Michael Hollingsworth Photo credit: Tess Mayer
To hear the full interview with Michael Hollingsworth, go to pppradio.nyc.
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NYC ELECTIONS Dianne Morales, NYC Mayoral Candidate: You Don’t Reform an Inequitable, Exclusive System. You Transform It.
BY CAW EDITORIAL TEAM
Dianne Morales is a Community Grassroot Candidate hoping to become the first elected Black and Latina community leader woman as mayor of New York City. Born and raised in Brooklyn to immigrants of Puerto Rico descent, she considers herself the embodiment of the average New Yorker. She is a champion with a proven track record of creating solutions to meet the needs of the majority of New Yorkers in New York City, having worked extensively with communities in a core sector like education. Beyond that, her longterm service in the nonprofit sector as Executive Director and Chief of Operation affords her the ability to be This serves as a basis for her commitknowledgeable about the pain points of ment to meeting the needs of fellow comover 3 million NY City dwellers. munity members. Though new to politics, her strength In an exclusive interview with lies in her commitment to the community Caribbean American Weekly, she and her progressive approach to the explains that there are three main reasons issues facing New York City post-pan- why she considers herself best qualified demic. Her opening statement on her for the position. It is a combination of her campaign website, www.dianne.nyc, is 'reflexive experiences,' life of service, bold and to the point: "The pandemic and the loyalty and accountability she exposed the vulnerabilities that already feels towards the communities. existed: Housing, economic and health "My loyalty and my accountability are disparities were all present but have only to the community first. I don't have a deepened. And as we continue to experi- long career in politics at all. My camence the devastating consequences of our paign has been built on the idea of elevatnation's failed pandemic response, the ing the working class, immigrants popurich have gotten richer, while the poorer lation, black and brown of New York have gotten poorer. City. As I move forward, I am moving For the first time in our city's recent with all of you …" history, we can no longer avoid that our city is built on the backs of Black women, immigrants, disabled people, the LGBTQ+ community, and the working poor. They have been the invisible drivers keeping the city going yet continue to be left behind. Our system is not broken; it is working as it was designed to work. You don't reform an inequitable, exclusive system. You transform it."
Loyalty and Accountability
Morales sees racial justice and public safety as key to the city's reopening and proposes an overhaul of New York City's institutions to confront pandemic deepened inequality. Her proposals include realigning funds from the over-generous New York Police Department's budget to reinvest in community responses. Dianne is the only former NYC public school teacher in the race so far. Having grown and raised children in the public school system, she has experienced how segregated schools have divided young people based on race, ZIP code, and income.
Dianne’s Themes
Promoting the themes of dignity, solidarity, and care, Dianne Morales' policy platform operates on the principle that politics should work for all New Yorkers. A stronger city is formed when residents are prioritized, and oppressive systems and barriers are eliminated. She sees a need to ensure that the people who help keep New York City afloat, the essential workers who worked in and out of a pandemic, cared for and protected from the struggles created by the imbalanced system. "...I don't think anyone comes from our community and reflects our community that is really focused on prioritizing our concerns at the city-wide level. It is time to have someone in leadership who is going to make sure that our communities are a priority and that we are in the center moving forward…"
The First 100 days
Some of the critical issues that Ms. Morales intends to address when elected include reviewing the city's budget to minority groups, must be reconsidered and looked after on budgets. Addressing the issue of housing, she said, "Housing is a critical priority; I think that we need to make sure that we prioritize and create affordable housing." And the other critical issue is addressing police brutality. Morales says, "We need to take on the police violence and brutality that is disproportionately affecting our communities. I am dismayed by the ongoing killing of our people and how the militarized policing system disproportionately harms our communities."l
Dianne Morales Photo credit: Morales’ Campaign
address the community's needs, building affordable housing, and addressing police brutality. She firmly believes that certain groups, especially the people of color and other
Listen to podcasts of Dianne Morales’ full exclusive interviews on People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at www.pppradio.nyc. You may also listen to full shows of People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at anchor.fm/pppradio, on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, and RadioPublic.
NYC ELECTIONS Raymond J. McGuire: A Contender for the 2021 New York City Mayoral Race
BY CAW EDITORIAL STAFF
Raymond J. McGuire, also known as Ray McGuire, is a husband, a father, an accomplished businessman, and a contender in the crowded 2021 race to see who will be elected the next mayor of New York City. The 64year-old African American male from Dayton, Ohio, was raised by a single mother and grandparents. During an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, Raymond J. McGuire stated, "...I know what it's like not to have, I know what it's like when your mom has to go from paycheck to paycheck and decide whether or not she's going to pay rent or pay the utility bill." McGuire shares that he never knew the identity of his biological father. However, despite his humble beginnings, McGuire has an Ivy League Harvard University education, conquered Wall Street as an investment banker, and is said to be worth an estimated value of $20million, according to public data reports.
Unique Ability & Life Story
Although Raymond McGuire does not have any prior political experience, he does not view his lack of political experience as a hindrance. "I have the unique ability to pull this city together and lead us forward," stated McGuire during the interview. McGuire expressed the factors that would contribute to his ability to function well as the next mayor of New York City. Factors such as his lived experiences, the relationships he's been able to build in business, and his ability to manage large budgets. The former CitiGroup executive revealed, "I am running because of my life story. New York needs economic recovery. McGuire hopes that his journey from struggle to prominent global businessman will help voters see he is the best person to move the city forward in the right direction. "The management experience I have, the relationships are going to be critical here, and the vision; that gives me a different perspective than those playing the same old political games," expressed Raymond McGuire. "As I look ahead to what's going to be needed here, I know how to tackle the big challenges with high stakes because my business career required it," said McGuire. McGuire's mayoral campaign's considerable emphasis is focused on economic recovery and the need to create jobs in New York City. McGuire is hopeful that focusing on the city's economic comeback, along with his experience as an investment banker and building wealth, will make him a candidate who can connect with voters of various races, cultures, and ethnicities of different ages and incomes levels. "I'm going after the Black, Latino, and White, Asian voters, voters of all ages in every neighborhood, of every income level with my message," stated McGuire. Although McGuire is clearly most confident in his banking experience and ability to build wealth to attract voters to him and his message, he has addressed multiple community issues during his campaign. During his exclusive interview, McGuire stated that the significant issues affecting New York City at this time are "...Covid, the economy, and racial and religious segregation." During various interviews with the press, McGuire describes himself as a strong supporter of education and wants to see school-aged children in New York City return to the school buildings. He also discussed the need for a comprehensive plan to create affordable housing and prevent evictions, as well as the need for "…policing that is respectful, accountable, and proportionate." During his interview with Caribbean American Weekly, McGuire discussed his economic recovery plan for New York City, called "Go Big, Go Small, Go Forward." He said, “this is a plan for Black and Brown people, for all people." He also dsicussed his plans to focus on education and small businesses, the need to put money back into small businesses, and the need to create more jobs, affordable housing, and make broadband accessible for all.
Ray McGuire. Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com
Does Raymond J. McGuire have what it takes to win the 2021 mayoral race?
If Raymond McGuire were elected the next mayor of New York City, he would be the second African-American male to hold the position. Not since the 1990s, when the late Honorable David Dinkins was in office, there was an AfricanAmerican in that position. There are 3 African-Americans, including McGuire, in this packed competition to see who will be elected the next mayor of New York City. Gwen Carr, the mother of Eric Garner, has given her endorsement to the McGuire campaign. Ms. Carr stated that she feels Raymond J. McGuire is the best person for mayor because he "…would know how to get things done," said Carr. The McGuire campaign has also received endorsements from some celebrities, athletes, and Assembly Members Vivian Cook and Robert Rodriguez. "All that has to happen between now and June is more people getting to know and meet Ray said Assembly member Robert Rodriguez to the press. Director Spike Lee, actors Samuel L. Jackson and Steve Martin, to name a few, have publicly endorsed McGuire. Bigtime celebrities and hip-hop artists, including Sean "Jay-Z" Carter, Sean "Diddy" Combs, and Nasir "Nas" Jon, as well as Steve Stoute, former record executive, have publicly announced their endorsements for McGuire. Former Run DMC Rapper Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons also announced his endorsement of McGuire. Each of these artists has also made their mark with business ventures outside of their hip hop careers. Collectively, they said that McGuire was the candidate of choice because of his leadership ability. They described McGuire as the type of leader New York City needs for its comeback during interviews. During his campaign, McGuire has focused on showing himself as the most skilled candidate to lead New York City's economic recovery. McGuire hopes these endorsements help demonstrate his ability to relate to Black voters on more than just a business level and broaden his appeal to Black voters. Chairman of the Democratic Party, Representative Gregory W. Meeks, also endorsed McGuire. McGuire's supporters see the endorsement from Meeks as a major win and hope it will help voters gain confidence in choosing Raymond J. McGuire as the next mayor of New York City. When asked about his thoughts concerning McGuire's low performance in early polls, Meeks said, "This is the beginning...I refer everyone back to eight years ago. At that time, Bill de Blasio was nowhere on a polling site." Raymond J. McGuire remains hopeful he can be the one to replace New York City's Mayor, Bill De Blasio.l
Listen to podcasts of Ray McGuire’s full exclusive interviews on People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at www.pppradio.nyc. You may also listen to full shows of People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at anchor.fm/pppradio, on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, and RadioPublic.
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Shaun Donovan Brings 30 Years of Public Service Experience to the NYC Mayoral Race
BY CAW EDITORIAL STAFF
Shaun Donovan has 30 years of experience in public service. The combination of his Ivy League school training, serving in prestigious specialized positions under former President Barack Obama, and a sector of great sensitivity like budgeting and housing places him as a strong candidate for a job that requires technical skills in strategy and delivery. Plus, he has served in New York. Born to an immigrant Irish father and a Jewish Mother, he considers his early experiences as the grandson and son of an immigrant a unique component in his history that will appeal to various community members. His long service at all levels, both at the local, state, and federal levels, makes him a strong contender in the Mayoral race. Between 2004-2009, under the leadership of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, he served as the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner. After which, he rose to perform at the federal level between 2009-2014 as the country's Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Between 2014-2017 as the Director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.
Combination of Ability and Experience
Shaun believes in his ability to bring remarkable changes to New York City as a Mayor. He considers his experience and background vital and an asset to the job. In an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, he said, "We certainly do not need a rookie as a Mayor right now. And we've seen in the last eight years people that are more interested in repeating the same rhetoric than reality, more interested in politics than people." Donovan explains that some of his experiences while growing up contributed to his deep-rooted desire to serve the public. "No one in this race knows how to rebuild from the crisis, the way that I do, and I will make sure that as we rebuild, we are creating a fair New York that actually works for every New Yorker, particularly for immigrants and those who are left behind so often." He emphasizes the fresh perspectives he will bring to the job. In particular, he stressed that "What New Yorkers want is a change, they are fed up with the political status quo, there are many people in this race that are part of that political status quo. There are just a few of us that are coming from outside politics to try to make a difference. But I am the only one of those who have real experience in communities around New York for three decades. Making a difference, creating affordable housing, ending homelessness, ensuring immigrants are protected. All of those things I have done for 30 years." In addition to being a great leader, he intends to save the City's mass transit by fully introducing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service throughout the City. He also wants to expand accessibility and equity to essential services to all New York City residents by introducing the "15-minute city" or bike ride plan.
Issues and Results in the first 100 days
In the first hundred days of assuming office, he intends to hit the ground hard, delivering on ensuring a healthy New York City with many vaccinated New Yorkers. In the interview, he emphasized, "First, we have to make sure we have the healthiest, safest City in the world, and that means ensuring that every single New Yorker has access to a vaccine. We need to make sure that we send mobile vaccination sites out into the community, public housing, in our library. Everywhere that New Yorkers need access, particularly black and brown communities. We have to make sure that we are protecting New Yorkers from this terrible virus." Another major priority is fixing the economic pandemic that follows the COVID-19 pandemic. Donovan says, "We have to realize that after the pandemic, we have an economic pandemic, deepening inequalities that existed before, and that means we have to put over 500,000 New Yorkers back to work. I have the clearest and boldest plan to do that. Get all our businesses back to opening and accelerate the economy. "
Shaun Donovan Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com
Endorsements
Donovan is endorsed by notable public figures across the country like the Mayor of New Orleans - Mitch Landrieu, Miami – Manny Diaz, Philadelphia – Michael Nutter, a former leader in East Brooklyn Congregations, Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood, actor Edward Norton, Assembly Members Michael Benedetto, Charles Fall and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx. Some organizations like 314 Action Fund, Metro Industrial Areas Foundation, East Brooklyn Congregation have all endorsed him.l
Antonio Reynoso Is Ready to Be the Next Borough President of Brooklyn
BY CAW EDITORIAL STAFF
Born to immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic, Antonio Reynoso, who considers himself a Caribbean man, commenced his political career over a decade ago, backed with a bachelor's degree in political science. He knows how to engage with community members through his earlier experiences as a Community Organizer for NYC ACORN, before joining Councilmember Diana Reyna as Chief of Staff in 2009. He considers himself progressive and promotes his candidacy based on his personal experiences as an offspring of immigrants. His parents are immigrants who leveraged on policies in the society to raise him. His desire to serve as the next Brooklyn Borough President is a way of paying forward, according to him, "An opportunity to give back to a community that has given him a lot."
Track Record
While representing City Council District 34, he has focused on issues of transportation, especially transit, environmental justice, and police accountability. He also chaired various committees, including Sanitation and Solid Waste Management. He considers himself an outspoken activist for ambitious and bold reforms, such as challenging policies that encourage police brutality. As a City Council member, he called for greater police accountability and reallocation of funds. He has said, "New Yorkers are sick and tired of hollow promises – we need real action so that no family is forced to endure another tragedy at the hands of the police…."
Issues and Plans for the Borough
Convinced of his ability to make a significant difference, City Council Member believes he can deliver if elected as the next Borough President of Brooklyn because of his knowledge and understanding of the main issues that can make a difference. He intends to focus on land use and development issues, minority health equity, immigration, diversifying community boards, promoting infrastructural policies that will benefit more working people, and limiting policies that quickly affect minority groups. Specifically, he is determined to creating health equity for Black women who have endured poor health outcomes over the years. In his view, he wants to address discussions on Black women's health during childbirth. He considers it one of the most significant forms of inequities in New York City, particularly in Brooklyn. Reynoso also plans to advocate for comprehensive planning legislation, including providing technical assistance to community boards. What's more, he plans to strongly encourage community participation and apply a holistic approach to the borough's development strategy rather than the imposed rezoning and the use of blocks of development strategy. On education, Reynoso opposes any increase in the charter school cap because he feels that there are some fundamental issues of concern, such as the double standard that is obtainable in charter and not public schools. As a child of immigrants and with such a diverse immigrant population in Brooklyn, Reynoso is very conscious of immigrants' challenges. As Borough President of Brooklyn, he plans to set up a pro-bono legal service to assist with critical issues, such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Reynoso believes in and strongly supports public transit. For example, he supports the building of more dedicated busways, bike-riding, and building protected bike lanes for riders, and he will be expanding both plans if elected. A borough-wide approach to addressing infrastructure issues such as limiting the construction of waste stations in lowincome communities of color is an approach he intends to explore in addressing some of the challenges faced in the borough. Reynoso believes that when issues and solutions are uncoordinated, inequities grow. Reynoso feels that economic inequality is an injustice and is committed to putting an end to it.
Antonio Reynoso Photo credit: Reynoso Campaign
Endorsements
For all his ideas and convictions, a combination of notable people in the progressive organizations, elected officials, and community members has endorsed him. Some public figures and colleagues include City Council Members like Helen Rosenthal, Margaret Chin, and Brad Lander. State Senators Julia Salazar and Jessica Ramos have also endorsed his ambition. Terrence Floyd (brother of George Floyd), Victoria Davis (sister of Delrawn Small), who are victims of police brutality, also supports his ambition and groups like the Working Families Party, Make the Road Action, and the New Kings Democrats.l
Listen to Reynoso’s interview at www.pppradio.nyc
34 Jo Anne Simon – A Trailblazer Candidate for the President of Brooklyn Borough
BY CAW EDITORIAL TEAM
ties. So, I believe that my background funding to support goals or social goals Democratic Assemblywoman Jo Anne Simon is a trailblazer on many counts – if elected, she and ability to work with people across the board is something that I bring to this position in a fundamentally different way than anybody." to improve people's lives." She considers herself the best candidate for the job because of her ability to work with various stakeholders. She explained will be the first female to hold the posi- Having served in over 25 positions that she intends to work with community tion of Brooklyn's Borough President. A ranging from the President of the members collaboratively, allowing difqualified Brooklynite, who has lived in Boerum Hill Association, she has also ferent representations around the table. the City for almost 40 years, she grew up led various positions in Traffic & "What I learned by working with comin Yonkers as the oldest girl in an Italian Transportation, Land Use, and Atlantic munities is that they want a seat at the immigrant family and was the first to Yards committees. She also served in dif- table. It is my goal to ensure that people attend college. ferent capacities as Founder or Co- no longer pull up a folding chair. At my Simon is an accomplished attorney spe- founder of numerous organizations. table of being the Borough President, cializing in disability civil rights and a In her interview, Simon emphasized there will be a seat for all." politician with over 25 years of experi- that "I have a long history as a communience. She has served in various capaci- ty leader and organizer working with Issues to be addressed in the first 100 ties in the borough's communities focusing on changing the decision-making process in environmental justice issues, increasing access to education, affordable housing, advocating for street safety, and bringing fiscal responsibility to the public agenda. Community Leader Assemblywoman Jo Anne lives with her partner, and her grandchildren and stepsons live in New York. She graduated from Iona College, has an advanced degree in Education of the Deaf, and earned a law degree from Fordham University School of Law. She is a recognized expert who has served as a judicial law secretary and taught in Hofstra University School of Law's clinical program. She is considered an expert in civil rights law for persons with disabilities. Simon considers herself a community activist. In an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, Simon stated that "I have been working my entire life to empowering marginalized communities: as a disability civil rights lawyer, community leader, and a former teacher of deaf children, as a leading advocate of people with reading disabilicommunities primarily through Western Brooklyn on environmental justice issues, transportation, and land-use issue, which all intersect in our everyday life. It's the intersection that forms our lives and creates some barriers that affect our community, life, health, and education. These are issues I dealt with for a long time as a community person. The borough Presidency is a job that is not hierarchical. It is the Senior Political person in the borough but in reality, what the borough president does is empower communities. They have the power of convening, the power of advocacy, the strategic use of capital dollars and other days In the first 100 days, Simon claims she will focus on recovering from the impact of COVID-19, addressing access to immigration and legal services, and getting a sense of how to manage land use in the borough. She explained, "We need to address those issues, access to immigration services and legal services …too many of our people really have issues that they need the advice and guidance of a lawyer. They don't have access to that; that is something I will set up." l
Jo Anne Simon Photo credit: Simon Campaign
Listen to Simon’s interview at www.pppradio.nyc
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