Workers' World Today - Issue 6 by IQ INC.

INSIDE

November 2019 Veterans are Being Deported ... 4-page The Immigrant’s Journal

Things Home Buyers Forget... 18

Sexual Harrassment in Housing ... 15

Issue #6

U.S. Election 2020: Obama Issues Warning to “Revolutionary” Democrats

President Obama / Shutterstock.com

BY BBC.COM

ormer U.S. President Barack Obama has issued a warning to Democratic presidential candidates,

cautioning them against policies that are not "rooted in reality." Obama said Democrats risked alienating voters if they lurched too far to the left polit-

ically. The former president, speaking at a fundraising event, said most voters didn't want to "tear down the system." Obama is yet to publicly back a Democratic candidate. The field is crowded, with 18 Democrats vying for the nomination to take on Republican President Donald Trump in the 2020 election. The frontrunners are former Vice-President Joe Biden, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, and Pete Buttigieg, the Mayor of South Bend, Indiana. At the event held in Washington, Obama did not mention any candidate by name nor criticize any specific policy procontinued on page 6

Hot Topics and News You Should Know About

Stephen Miller’s White Supremacist Views ...page 4 of Journal

First Hair Discrimination Case since Landmark Decision ... 4

Taxpayers Be Aware: New Version of SSN Scam ... 9

Labor-Related News - Nationally & Locally

Concussion: Your Brain Bounces Around in Your Skull ... 7

Meet the New York City District Council of Carpenters and Joiners of America

Executive SecretaryTreasurer, Geiger

BY MARY CAMPBELL

he New York City District Council of Carpenters and Joiners of America (NYDCC) is a representative body comprised of nine individual Locals and over 20,000 union members. The District Council functions as the voice for thousands of New York City’s most dedicated and skilled Carpenters, Millwrights, Dockbuilders, Timbermen, Cabinetmakers, Floorcoverers and Industrial Workers. NYCDCC is a fully democratic body. Its leadership is elected by union members and only union members. Every Local is represented in every decision made at the continued on page 10

3 Things That Can Influence an Affair ... page 19

“Untouchable” Arleigh Louison Continues Immigration Fraud Business While His Victims Face Deportation Proceedings BY MARILYN SILVERMAN

Women Encouraged to Embrace Apprenticeships ...5

CWA Launches New Programs for Veterans ...13

Airline Food Workers Rally for Health Care ...13

Why did this fraud of 1,800 Caribbean immigrants persist for several years? Did Congresswoman Clarke and District Attorney Gonzales get complaints and what did they do?

continued on page 12

Clarke

Louison (Photo: Facebook)

Gonzales

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November 2019

Our movement is of the working people, for the working people, by the working people. . . . There is not a right too long denied to which we do not aspire in order to achieve; there is not a wrong too long endured that we are not determined to abolish. — Samuel Gompers

Contents

Airline Food Workers Rally for Health Care ...13

In Solidarity: Should Workers Be Allowed to Nap at Work?...........................................................................3 Civil Rights First Hair Discrimination Case Resolution...............................................................................4 Workers’ World Time for Women to Embrace Apprenticeships & Nontraditional Occupations.................................................5 Workers’ Safety Your Brain Bounces Around Your Skull in a Concussion— Preventable? .....................................7 Education Before You Take Out Student Loans for Yourself or a Child.................................................................8

Meet one of the workers: Joyce Pobee “I love my job. But the wages are not good. I have to work about 20 hours overtime every week, which is really hell for me. There are so many of my coworkers sleeping in their cars because we are forced to work so many hours. The airlines like American are making money because we are sacrificing ourselves for them. We cater flights for them. They have to cater to us, too.” To learn more, visit www.onejob.org

Labor History: Haymarket martyrs hanged, convicted in the bombing deaths of eight police during a Chicago labor rally "No single event has influenced the history of labor in Illinois, the United States, and even the world, more than the Chicago Haymarket Affair. It began with a rally on May 4, 1886, but the consequences are still being felt today. Although the rally is included in American history textbooks, very few present the event accurately or point out its significance"

—William J. Adelman Read more at www.workersworldtoday.com

Love, Health & Travel How to Take the Stress Out of Holiday Travel.......................................................................20 From Worker to Business Owner... 14 Business Plans Help You to Run Your Business

Love, Health & Travel Anxiety — Causes & How to Overcome It.......................21

COLUMNS Civil Rights ... 4 “Far too often, Black people in the United States face prejudice and judgment from their employers simply for wearing their hair in its natural form. This discrimination against natural Black hair is a direct assault on an individual’s dignity, humanity and self-determination — and it can have long-lasting effects on their economic, psychological, and physical well-being.” —Janai Nelson, Associate Director-Counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.,

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November 2019

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In Solidarity

Should Workers Be Allowed to Nap at Work?

TEAM Publisher Workers’ World Today, Inc Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip

BY JONATHON BERR, BBC Contributing Writers Marilyn Silverman Charles Tabasso Victoria Falk Erin Telesford Jennine Estes, MFT Travis Morales Mary Campbell Janet Howard

T Supports Workers’ World Today

ecently, I was in Albany fighting and seeking support of A1261/S1947, legislation that will create a clear definition of public work and level the playing field for New York’s contractors. District Council 9 Painters and Allied Trades Union (DC9), the union for painters, prides itself on being a strong advocate for workers’ rights and safety. We are excited about this new publication, Workers’ World Today, which covers the issues of relevance and concern for all workers. We are encouraged that all workers: blue and white collar will have a voice and platform. Congratulations on your inaugural issue. We wish much success to the leaders and team of Workers’ World Today and pledge our support.p Davon Lomax Political Director, DC9

he U.S. government has decided to get tough on naps. Although sleeping at work has long been frowned upon for federal employees, it had never been explicitly banned until now. "All persons are prohibited from sleeping in federal buildings, except when such activity is expressing authorized by an agency official," said a directive ordered by the General Services Administration earlier this month. It's unclear what prompted the official directive— they refused to comment — but it's not the first time a government has had to crack down on workers' snoozing. In 2018, the California State Auditor's Office released a report on a Department of Motor Vehicles worker who slept up to three hours a day. The report estimated the worker's naps cost the state $40,000 in lost productivity over four years. The report said the employee's naps forced her colleagues to cover for her and pick up her slack. The worker was not admonished, because her supervisor was concerned there was a health problem that was causing the drowsiness. The thought of a workforce collectively catching up on lost sleep will ring alarm bells for many, but the argument for napping at work is about increasing productivity not diminishing it. Dr Lawrence Epstein, past president of the American

Academy of Sleep Medicine and Medical Director of Clinical Sleep Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, estimates that about 70 million Americans suffer from a sleep disorder. A recently published study from Indiana's Ball State University, which examined selfreported sleep duration of 150,000 people, found the numbers of respondents who got seven hours of sleep per night or less rose to 35.6% in 2018 from 30.9% in 2010. About half of the respondents who were police officers and healthcare workers reported not getting enough sleep. "Some companies are becoming more aware of that and are providing ways to address [the issue]. Unfortunately, I don't think our government agencies are on the lead on this," Epstein told the BBC. "It is something that can and should be addressed but unfortunately often isn't." All that sleep deprivation can take a toll on people's health and the economy. Lack of sleep has been linked to a myriad of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and strokes, along with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. A 2016 analysis conducted by the Rand Corporation pegs the impact of sleep-deprived workers on the U.S. economy

at $411 billion a year, including lost productivity. Epstein and other experts support allowing workers to take short naps while on the job. "People who are sleep-deprived don't work at their best and have a higher risk of workplace accidents and end up costing the companies more because they have more health problems," Epstein says. Other countries have less of a stigma around napping. In Japan, companies are installing sound-proof pods to encourage workers, who put in long hours, to get some rest. That idea is beginning to take off here, but slowly. Some companies, such as ice cream company Ben & Jerry's, have set up nap rooms to make it easier to snooze. The accommodations are hardly luxurious — the 10-by-10 room, nicknamed the "Da Vinci room", contains a futon couch and a thin blanket. Nappers are required to remove their shoes and are limited to 20 minutes for snoozing. Ill workers who need more sleep will be sent home. Meanwhile, some North American companies are making napping their business. p

Story edited for space. Read the full story at www.workersworld.com

Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Telephone 1-866-435-3286 Email info@workersworldtoday.com Visit us at www.workersworldtoday.com

A Special Invitation to all faith-based leaders and organizations to empower their congregation and membership FREE IMMIGRATION, LEGAL & BUSINESS SEMINARS/ PRESENTATIONS. CONSULTATION CARDS ($100 VALUE) WILL BE HANDED OUT.

Call 718-243-9431 to schedule a presentation Ask for Ms Phillip

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November 2019

Civil Rights

First Hair Discrimination Case Resolution Since Landmark Legal Enforcement Guidance

ew York: The NYC Commission on Human Rights announces its first settlement involving race discrimination on the basis of hair following the February 2019 release of its landmark legal enforcement guidance. The settlement with Sally Hershberger Salon and Sharon Dorram Color concludes a Commission-initiated investigation into reports of discriminatory grooming policies enforced against Black employees. The legal enforcement guidance was the first in the country to recognize discrimination on the basis of hair as race discrimination, prompting legislative change in other jurisdictions across the nation. The settlement stipulates that the businesses must partner with a NYC-based styling school that specializes in the care and styling of natural hair and hairstyles closely associated with Black people in order to: train current salon employees to cut and style natural hair; and create a multi-

cultural internship program which will provide professional opportunities to hair stylists from underrepresented groups. In addition, business owner Sharon Dorram and senior stylist Tim Lehman (Hershberger Salons), will complete 35 hours of community service with a racial justice organization — to be approved by the Commission — that works to combat hair discrimination and promote Black beauty. The businesses were also mandated by the Commission to complete trainings on racial justice and equity and to identify several experts to provide such trainings. The salon has

engaged Dr. Gillian ScottWard, psychologist, natural hair advocate, and director of the documentary, Back to Natural, to lead the trainings. Further, the settlement carries a $70,000 civil penalty, as well as training on the City Human Rights Law. “People should not be discriminated against because of their natural hair and this guidance ensures that Black New Yorkers have the right to style it however they choose without fear of retaliation,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray. “Discriminatory practices undermine people’s wellbeing, livelihoods, and families. We will continue de-

fending people’s rights until every New Yorker is treated with dignity and respect.” “Since the start of my tenure in 2015, one of my goals has been to reimagine the approach government takes when seeking justice for communities affected by discrimination,” said Carmelyn P. Malalis, Commissioner and Chair of the NYC Commission on Human Rights. “Releasing our legal enforcement guidance on hair discrimination, which built on efforts of advocates, lawmakers and scholars, was one of the steps we have taken to dismantle institutional racism and provide momentum for other jurisdictions to follow. This resolution is another step towards ensuring that racist notions of professional appearance standards are not applied in New York City. The restorative justice components incorporated into the resolution demonstrate the Commission’s commitment to repairing and re-investing in the communities impacted by

discriminatory practices. These restorative remedies move beyond punishment to focus on repairing harm and achieving lasting justice and equity.” “CGE commends Commissioner Malalis and the NYC Commission on Human Rights on its first settlement involving race discrimination on the basis of hair and for its continued work to ensure that New York City is equitable for all New Yorkers, regardless of gender identity, gender expression, or race and ethnicity. Hair discrimination is an example of racism and harassment that follows Black New Yorkers in numerous settings, inhibiting their educational, economic, and social advancement, and jeopardizing their mental and physical wellbeing,” said Jacqueline Ebanks, Executive Director, NYC Commission on Gender Equity (GCE). In February 2019, when the legal enforcement guidance was published, the Commiscontinued on page 6

November 2019

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Workers’ World

The Time Is Now for Women to Embrace Apprenticeships and Nontraditional Occupations BY ERICA CLAYTON WRIGHT

hen we talk about women in the workplace, we often overlook the women who build our homes, our schools, and our roads. These women are construction workers, ironworkers, plumbers, and electricians. They have taken on occupations that require extraordinary grit and perseverance. They keep our economy running and growing while caring for their families. More than 2,000 extraordinary tradeswomen from across the country gathered in Minneapolis for the annual TradesWomen Build Nations conference — the largest conference of its kind in North America. While the vast majority of these tradeswomen find themselves in nontraditional occupations —that is, occupations where women comprise less than 25% of those employed – these are occupations where women find opportunities for greater empowerment, advancement, and career and financial stability. As they break

barriers in their fields, these women also play a critical role in the development of the next generation by serving as role models for all women, not just the next generation of women workers. Our current economic climate is also providing women with unprecedented opportunities. However, the number of job openings remains high – 7.2 million in July 2019. Businesses report that one of the biggest issues they face is the skills gap — workers not trained and equipped to fill their open positions. At the Women’s Bureau

within the U.S. Department of Labor, we want to help empower women to seize these by creating more pathways for success. To achieve this, apprenticeships must expand. Apprenticeships are a reliable pathway to well-paid careers in the trades and in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) jobs. Apprenticeships create a win-win situation for women, their families, and our nation’s economy. They also serve as a way to upskill and launch successful careers regardless of their stage in life, education level, or previous work experience while

earning an income. The Women’s Bureau has worked to enhance these opportunities through our Women in Apprenticeship and Non-Traditional Occupations (WANTO) grant program. Since 2017, we have awarded close to $4.5 million in grant funds. While the number of applications for WANTO grants has increased exponentially, there is still much work to be done for women to truly embrace the apprenticeship concept. Most recently, we announced our 2019 WANTO grantees. One of the grantees is located in St. Paul —The Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership (WRTP). WRTP will work to provide training and support services to women in the Twin Cities as well as other metropolitan areas, including Pittsburgh, Kansas City, and Seattle. They plan to create a robust network of nonprofits, workforce investment boards, employers, and unions to engage and enroll more women in pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs while meeting local workforce needs

in construction, manufacturing, energy, IT, and transportation. As part of this work, WRTP will also hold workshops, webinars, and other events for women and employers educating them on the benefits of apprenticeship and nontraditional occupations, and ways to engage more women and ensure their success. If you are a woman interested in entering the workforce, changing your career, learning a new skill, or strengthening your earning potential take the time to explore the many apprenticeship programs out there for women in nontraditional occupations. Be sure to visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s Women’s Bureau website at www.dol.gov/wb. The Women’s Bureau and the many agencies within the U.S. Department of Labor stand ready to help!p

Erica Clayton Wright is the acting director of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Women’s Bureau.

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November 2019

Election 2020 Obama Issues Warning continued from page 1 posal. Instead, he used the appearance to urge Democrats to "pay some attention" to voters on issues such as health care and immigration. These voters, Obama said, did not necessarily have the same views as what he called "certain left-leaning Twitter feeds" or "the activist wing of our party." The comments, which come less than four months before the Democratic primaries, represent one of Obama's most pointed interventions in the race so far. They may be seen as a critique of Senators Sanders and Warren — widely seen as two of the most left-wing candidates in the field. Both candidates have called for far-reaching political and economic change, including policies that would end private health insurance and decriminalize illegal border crossings. But Obama, who occupied the White House from 2009 to 2017, said the country was "less revolutionary than it is interested in improvement."

Sanders

"Even as we push the envelope and we are bold in our vision, we also have to be rooted in reality," Obama said at the meeting, reportedly attended by wealthy liberal donors. The Democratic race is still largely up in the air even as the first of the state-by-state votes that will decide which of the contenders challenges Trump for the White House looms in Iowa in February. Some Democrats are concerned that Biden, a moderate, will struggle to beat Mr Trump, prompting a flurry of latecomers to join the race. In recent days Deval Patrick, the two-time former governor of Massachusetts, entered the field amid speculation that former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg may follow suit. [Bloomberg has since entered the race]

Warren

Meanwhile, political gossip about whether Hillary Clinton might enter the fray continues to set tongues wagging in Washington, DC. In an interview with the BBC, Clinton said she was "under enormous pressure" to challenge Trump, who beat her in the 2016 presidential election. Election day is less than a year away now and the race to become the Democratic challenger to Donald Trump is hotting up. The latest polling suggests Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren are the front-runners, while Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg are not far behind.p

Article originally appeared on bbc.com on November 16, 2019. For candidates’ responses, visit www.workersworldtoday.com

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Hair Discrimination continued from page 4 sion was investigating seven cases of hair discrimination, six of which were in the employment context. Since then, four more cases have been filed with the agency. The legal enforcement guidance was the first of its kind nationwide and spurred multiple other jurisdictions to codify similar protections. The guidance states that employers and providers of public accommodation – such as fitness clubs, schools, nightclubs and afterschool programs — cannot prohibit natural hair or hairstyles most commonly associated with Black people. Federal courts have narrowly interpreted federal civil rights law to allow this form of discrimination. The Commission is the City agency charged with enforcing the New York City Human Rights Law, which protects against citywide discrimination based on 26 protected categories. The Commission will investigate and prosecute all instances of racial discrimination based on this legal guidance. If a member of the public believes they have been discriminated against based on wearing a natural hairstyle in the workplace, school, or public accommodation they should call 311 and ask for the Commission on Human Rights to get assistance. “One of the most pernicious stereotypes about natural Black hair is that it is inherently unprofessional. That’s exactly the kind of stereotype that New York City’s guidance was intended to combat. Today’s resolution helps to ensure that all of us are free to work and learn without altering the natural texture of our hair.” —Ria Tabacco-Mar, ACLU Senior Staff Attorney “As someone who has had to be very conscious about both how I wear my natural hair in a professional setting, and how I could be penalized for wearing my hair naturally, the work of the Commission on Human Rights is necessary and appreciated. There are thousands of women of color who will hopefully have a more level playing field as they move though their professional space as a result of this case.” —Christina Greer, Fordham University Associate Chair of Department of Political Science

“Far too often, Black people in the United States face prejudice and judgment from their employers simply for wearing their hair in its natural form. This discrimination against natural Black hair is a direct assault on an individual’s dignity, humanity and self-determination — and it can have long-lasting effects on their economic, psychological, and physical well-being,” Janai Nelson, Associate DirectorCounsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., said. “This first-ofits-kind case resolution sends an important message to all employers that anti-Black hair discrimination has no place in our diverse city. LDF commends the NYC Commission on Human Rights for holding employers accountable for their actions and for proactively integrating restorative justice measures into this settlement. The outcome of this case illustrates the Commission’s firm commitment to implementing its legal enforcement guidance on hair discrimination — and we hope that it will deter future violations of this nature.” “NYCCHR’s restorative approach is an important step toward protecting New Yorkers’ human rights, illuminating that awareness, education, and action are key to preventing, eliminating, and redressing racial bias and resulting discrimination that African descendants suffer because of their natural hair styles. Decision-makers will be better informed about this pernicious and pervasive form of racial discrimination, which is not simply harmful to African descendants’ professional advancement but also their economic, psychological, physical, and physiological well-being. Organizational practices and policies ideally will in turn reflect this knowledge and a more equitable, inclusive, and healthy workplace—for all—can manifest as a result.” — Wendy Greene, Drexel Professor of Law and Francis Lewis Scholar in Residence.p Do you believe your civil rights have been violated? Or do you know someone whose civil rights may have been violated? You have rights! Ask the lawyer. Make a referral. Call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us for a FREE case evaluation. Remember the lawyer you hire, does make a difference!

November 2019

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Workers’ Safety

Your Brain Bounces Around in Your Skull in a Concussion—Preventable? BY MARILYN SILVERMAN

here is a frightening plethora of medical conditions that lurk just around the corner and can bombard you with devastating repercussions without any warning. It can be in your home, the street outside your home, your workplace, your car. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to know that to a degree they are preventable? Very frequently, incorporating commonsense preventative measures into your everyday routine can do the trick. Let’s talk about one of these medical ailments—concussions and let’s insert a definition from a respected source, the Mayo Clinic. They involve “a violent blow to your head and neck and upper body that can cause your brain to slide back and forth forcefully against the inner walls of your skull.” You would like to erase from your mind the image of your brain-

—such a vital bodily organ— bouncing around inside your skull. Now, your inevitable question—are they preventable? First, let us clarify the general consensus regarding concussions--they are not just idiosyncratic of football players. The victims could be your elderly parents who fell in the bathroom, you as a young parent falling on your children’s toys strewn about the floor. You can be in a car smash-up. You can be on that construction site before the outer perimeters of the building are erected. In essence, we are all vulnerable at all times at all places. There is a work environment where workers customarily wear a common type of wearing apparel—hard hats. The men and now women, who want to build our cities to even greater heights, know that their career choice is “one of the most dangerous work environments,” according to Occupa-

tional Health Center. Nonetheless, safety measures can be implemented so that workers are not rushed to the nearest ER in a screaming ambulance. You go to work to collect that paycheck, not to change into a hospital gown. Here are some ways to prevent concussions while you are climbing that scaffold: •Warning signs should be posted, read, memorized and obeyed. •Those signs should explain the inherent risks of injury. •Those signs should recom-

mend appropriate attire. •Those instructions should be recommended before anyone crosses the threshold of the construction area. •Employers should “maintain a quality safety program…that educates employees on head injury protection and education safety guidelines.” The key word in this sentence is education. Just because a safety program has been implemented, nevertheless, your boss should “periodically review the company’s safety guidelines to make sure they are up to date

and cover all situations employees might face on the job sites.” You are an entrepreneur —you should not only be concerned about profits, but about the health and safety of your workers. If construction workers begin their workday and see these warning signs in large lettering, why should they be so foolish to ignore them? Safety & Health Magazine cites an example. It’s a scorching hot day with its partner, humidity, and the construction worker is overheated and tosses aside his hard hat, or he hasn’t been injured as yet, and figures he’ll always be lucky. Now let’s jump to another milieu where you are vulnerable—your home. You assume that within the sanctuary of your home, safety prevails. Not if you are elderly or if your children’s playground is the floor. Virtua Health says to avoid a mishap in your home:

continued on page 22

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November 2019

Education

Before You Take Out Student Loans for Yourself or a Child

ow you finance higher education now can impact you financially for years to come. Use these tips to help with your financing decisions: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year you plan to go to school. The FAFSA determines which federal, state, and school assistance programs and student loans you are eligible to receive, including Pell Grants and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). Some programs, such as grants, give money toward college that you do not need to repay. Loans, on the other hand, you must repay with interest. Important: Always consider federal assistance and loan programs before private lenders. Federal student loans have more borrower protections and typically come with a lower interest rate. You must complete

the FAFSA to be eligible for federal student loans. Read your financial aid offer letter carefully. Many schools will send you a financial aid offer letter—also commonly referred to as an “Award Letter”—when they offer you admission. It’s important to read this letter carefully so you know what’s being offered and what you will have to pay for your education. The “aid” is often a mix of grants, loans, and work-study (money you can earn through qualifying part-time employment with the college or university). The letter may also mention op-

tional loans like Parent PLUS loans, which your parent(s) will have to pay back. Each type of loan has a different interest rate and different options for forgiveness. In other words, some loans are a better deal than others. Understand the risks of Parent PLUS loans. If you take out a Parent PLUS loan on behalf of a child, you will have to start making payments as soon as the loan is disbursed, unless you request a deferment. If you defer, interest will accrue on the loan and your payments will be higher when you resume payment. If

you cannot make payments while your child is enrolled, they may not be able to register for classes. Parent PLUS loans do not come with the same set of income-driven repayment plans that other federal student loans offer. If you apply for a Parent PLUS loan, lenders will check your credit. Any payments you make or do not make will affect your credit. Defaulting on payments can lead to garnishment of wages, tax refunds, and Social Security payments. You cannot transfer Parent PLUS loans to your child. Repaying the loan is the parent’s legal responsibility. Know the loan amount you need and accept no more than that amount. Create a budget to determine the size of loan you will need and how much you expect to be able to repay after graduation. A simple rule of thumb is not to borrow more than you expect to be paid annually at your first job post-graduation. Sometimes, lenders will offer you more than you need to pay for your education. You do not have to accept a larger amount.

Borrowing too much means you will pay more in interest in the long term. Shop around and compare private student loans only after you have exhausted federal student loans, work-study, scholarships, and grants. Speak with more than one lender and compare agreements to see which one best meets your needs. Private student loans may have higher interest rates than federal student loans; may require you to begin making payments while you are still in school; and may have interest rates that are variable, meaning they can increase over time. The higher your credit score—and the credit score of your cosigner if you choose to use one—the lower the interest rate. Note: Your cosigner is responsible for paying the debt if you fail to pay the loan. Compare fees, which can increase the cost of a loan, making it more expensive. Also compare loan terms—the number of years it takes to pay off the loan. The longer the loan term, the more you’ll pay overall. continued on page 22

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November 2019

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Workers’ Matters

Taxpayers Should be on the Lookout for New Version of SSN Scam

housands of people have lost millions of dollars and their personal information to tax scams. Scammers use the regular mail, telephone, or email to set up individuals, businesses, payroll and tax professionals. The IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information. Recognize the telltale signs of a scam Taxpayers should be on the lookout for new variations of tax-related scams. In the latest twist on a scam related to Social Security numbers, scammers claim to be able to suspend or cancel the victim’s SSN. It’s yet another attempt by con artists to frighten people into returning “robocall” voicemails. Scammers may mention overdue taxes in addition to threatening to cancel the per-

son’s SSN. If taxpayers receive a call threatening to suspend their SSN for an unpaid tax bill, they should just hang up. Make no mistake…it’s a scam. Taxpayers should not give out sensitive information over the phone unless they are positive they know the caller is legitimate. When in doubt, hang up. Here are some telltale signs of this scam: The IRS and its authorized

private collection agencies will never: •Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, iTunes gift card or wire transfer. The IRS does not use these methods for tax payments. •Ask a taxpayer to make a payment to a person or organization other than the U.S. Treasury.

•Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying. •Demand taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed. Taxpayers who don’t owe taxes and have no reason to think they do should: •Report the call to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. •Report the caller ID and callback number to the IRS by sending it to phishing@irs.gov. •The taxpayer should write “IRS Phone Scam” in the subject line. •Report the call to the Federal Trade Commission. When reporting it, they should add “IRS Phone Scam” in the notes. Taxpayers who owe tax or think they do, should:

•View tax account information online at IRS.gov to see the actual amount owed and review their payment options. •Call the number on the billing notice •Call the IRS at 800-829-1040. Here is what the IRS will do: If an IRS representative visits you, he or she will always provide two forms of official credentials called a pocket commission and a HSPD-12 card. HSPD-12 is a government-wide standard for secure and reliable forms of identification for federal employees and contractors. You have the right to see these credentials. And if you would like to verify information on the representative’s HSPD-12 card, the representative will provide you with a dedicated IRS telephone number for verifying the information and confirming their identity.p

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November 2019

Unions In Action Meet the NYCDCC continued from page 1 District Council and has a voice in contract negotiations, policy decisions and the overall direction of the union. Above all else, the District Council is dedicated to guarantee that every worker in our represented trades has rights in the workplace, a fair wage, a healthy family and hope for the future. The construction industry is prone to exploitative and dangerous conditions in the workplace; our efforts are to eliminate those tendencies through strong advocacy and direct action. Workers World Today spoke with Joseph A. Greiger, the Executive Secretary -Treasurer about the NYCDCC. Geiger is a first generation carpenter in the union and has held the position of Executive Secretary-Treasurer since 2014 and is proud to represent over 20,000 members here in the New York City District Council of Carpenters. Geiger stated, “We strive to help one another, all our brothers and sisters. That's why it’s called a united brotherhood; and sisterhood as well. We also do a lot of outreach programs throughout the various communities here in New York City. We try to engage our membership in town hall meetings. We also give back to the community in many different ways. If they need something built, we help those in need to build something. With Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, we give to the less fortunate. We give out several hundred of turkeys and we buy toys for a lot of the kids in need. That's done in conjunction with organizations or local politicians who have various events throughout the seasons. Giving an example of giving back, Geiger shared, “Most recently, we had our apprentices build a farm stand out in Far Rockaway next to a nature complex. The people who live there grow produce. And they asked us if we can help and supply the materials as well as build a farm stand. So we built them a very nice farmstand. And it was a learning curve for our apprentices as well. They actually enjoyed getting out of the school to do hands on work on the outside. And overall, it was very successful. The residents from the nature complex were very happy. And now they have a place … a covered farmstand, where they can actually go and sell their produce. Outreach Geiger mentioned that NYCDCC is very strong on outreach and working tirelessly to help their membership. He explained that “We go out. We

Rob Maloney (Union Carpenter of Local 157) being interviewed in Workers’ World Today studios about his experience volunteering in the Bahamas.

Photo Credits: HEART 9/11. NYCDCC members volunteering in the Bahamas

have town hall meetings. We try to help our membership. We have a way of contacting each and every member, depending on where they live, throughout the various communities. We try to help them as well, as they all come down to the council at different times for different needs. We have many different programs to help our membership. And it's not only about helping our union brothers and sisters; it's also about helping the nonunion workers out there, bringing their standards up. It's great for our members. They make a good living. They get paid good benefits. They got good medical coverage. They have a great retirement. And we'd like to help those nonunion people as well. Of course, there's a lot of nonunion workers out there that are being taken advantage of from unscrupulous contractors and so forth and so on. So we like to lift them up. We try to bring them into the union to give them a better life, a better standard of living overall. Bottom-line, everybody would like to go home to their family and friends after a hard day's work. And that's not exactly happening on some of these nonunion jobs throughout the city. In particular, immigrants are being exploited and taken advantage of. So we'd like to educate everyone and train them as well, whether they're union or nonunion, to go out and make sure that they are protected when they go out there.

Role of the Union and the Importance of Being Unionized Speaking on the role that the District Council of Carpenters plays here in New York, Geiger proudly stated that “We're probably the largest construction trade union with over 20,000 members; we are a diverse group of carpenters throughout the city and the five boroughs. Our role is to set a precedent in the construction industry and lead the way for the other trades as well. He also stressed the importance of being a member of a union and the difference that it makes not only in the workers’ lives, but that of their families as well. “We are here there to protect everybody, even the nonunion workers. As far as them getting exploited, there's a tremendous amount of people that get exploited each and every day on a lot of construction projects throughout New York City. They're not getting paid the standard wages. They're not getting health coverage. They have no retirement. They get injured. They just pretty much get pushed to the side. They have no medical coverage. And, they are looked down at; they are frowned upon. They are treated like a number, not a person. These are human beings trying to make a living to support their families as well. So to me, it's a travesty when all of these people are being exploited and taken advantage of. So we try to raise them up and educate them about the union or just educate

them about the wages they should be making, standard wages. You know, somebody's going there making $10 an hour compared to a union member who makes much more. You know, no health coverage, to me that's a shame. And, when a lot of these developers and contractors go out and start renting these apartments or selling these condos or some of these lavish luxury places, they're getting top dollar. They can, you know, contrary to what they may say, that they can't afford to build with a union. That's totally wrong. And some of these developers are actually getting government subsidies. Both you and I can't afford some of these places and these developers are getting subsidized by the government under several different programs. And they're using and exploiting a lot of the workers on these projects. I don't think they should be given a 30year tax break. We don’t get tax breaks, do we? It’s unfortunate. It’s all about greed and money and taking advantage of the working man and woman. So, we try to help those individuals. Apprenticeship Program Geiger also spoke about the union’s apprenticeship program. He explained, “We have an apprenticeship program; we recently handed out applications in July and persons started lining up a week or two prior to the applications being handed out. That's such a coveted job that a lot of these young individuals, the men and women throughout New York City want. There were thousands of people, we were only able to give out, I believe, 500 applications. Persons stand out there, whether it's inclement weather, in the heat or the cold weather for a week, two weeks at a time, they pitch tents. They wind up around a whole city block. It extends on to another block. We have to get barricades and everything. They want to make a good living. They know what the carpenters’ union is about. They want to help their families. They want to be able to live a long life. So that's one of the ways that they can come in

through the application process. It's usually posted on our website. We also have recruitment for some of our specialty locals. So, there's different ways you can get in. We go out to local high schools, job fairs. We have people who attend those and explain our programs throughout New York City. So, there are different venues that we go to and make sure everybody's well aware of how to become a carpenter. Helping the Bahamas NYCDCC is rebuilding homes and hearts with Heart 9/11, a disaster-relief organization that is now on-the ground mobilizing the rebuilding and recovery efforts in the Bahamas after Hurricane Dorian ravaged the islands and left families homeless. Members of the Carpenters Union are rising to the needs of the hardest hit and lending their time and skills to rebuild homes that were destroyed and washed away by the catastrophic Category 5 hurricane in September. The union is actively recruiting NYCDCC members to volunteer throughout the month of October to improve safety and living conditions for Bahamian families and individuals impacted. “Many of our members have family and friends affected by this tragic disaster and a big part of what we believe in is being there for every community. The carpenters I have the privilege to know, have a valuable skillset and are uniquely equipped to make an impact especially for those in need in New York City and abroad,” said Geiger. “From rebuilding our communities at home after Hurricane Sandy, to helping recovery efforts in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, and now volunteering time and skills to rebuild communities in the Bahamas, our members always show up to lend a helping hand. Building is what we do best – we’re proud to use that strength to make positive impacts.”p

Visit the NYCDCC website at www.nycdistrictcouncil.com

November 2019

www.workersworldtoday.com

Family: The True Modern Relationship

How to Help Your Kids Cope with Divorce BY JENNA LEE

ivorce is a stressful experience, which is made even more difficult when there are children involved. Telling your children that you love them and providing them with a sense of stability can help to make the process easier for your little ones. Here are a few useful tips to get you started: Tell your kids about the divorce Tell your kids about your divorce by giving them an honest and simple explanation that is appropriate to their age. Avoid giving them too many details or blaming either parent. Be empathetic when you're sharing the news with them and allow them to ask any questions they have. Make sure that your children know that it's not their fault. Be patient and make sure that you tell them that you love them.

Don't involve your children in conflicts Avoid involving your children in any disputes with your partner. Don't share your worries with them or confide in them about financial issues. Rather than burdening them with adult problems, phone a friend or talk to a mental health professional. It's important to ensure that your children don't overhear these difficult conversations either. Maintain a routine Try to stick to your children's routine as much as possible. Discuss any changes to their routine with them ahead of time so that they are aware of any adjustments that need to be made. Divorce is likely to be disruptive, so its essential to offer your children as much stability as you can. Communicate with your ex-partner While you may feel resentment

towards your ex-partner, don't talk badly about them to your children. Encourage your children to continue their relationship with your ex-partner as they need support from both of you. Let your ex-partner know about school activities so that they can be involved in your children's lives. Allow your children to grieve Divorce is often traumatic for children and they need time to grieve their loss. Spend time with each child individually and encourage them to share their emotions with you. Listen to them closely and help

them to put their feelings into words. Let them know that they have a safe space to share whatever is on their mind with you without any fear of your disapproval. Rather than quickly trying to offer advice, focus on acknowledging their emotions and concerns. Making your children feel loved and cared for goes a long way towards helping them to cope with divorce. If you or your children are struggling, make an appointment with a mental health professional. p

Are you looking to get into the health & wellness business?

Contact:

Stacy Young Board Certified Holistic Health Coach Tel: 917-459-8431

November 2019

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Hot Topic Louison Fraud/ continued from page 1 t is no longer breaking news that Arleigh Louison, the Grenadian national who operated an illegal immigration service from an office situated on 223rd Lenox Road in the borough of Brooklyn, was indicted in Vermont. This information is documented and contained within the press release dated July 23, 2019, issued from the Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Department of Justice, wherein it stated in a 12count charge, that Louison was indicted since he made false statements on applications and furthermore, submitted an astronomical 1,800+ fraudulent immigration applications within a period of just four years to the USCIS. However, what is breaking and shocking news is that because the charges are considered accusations for now and require more in-depth investigation, Louison has since been released on bail. Why? Because he is presumed innocent under the auspices of U.S. law unless and until he is proven guilty. Unfortunately, via our investigations we have uncovered demonstrative proof that he has the brazen audacity to continue to break the law while engaging in his despicable immigration fraud, simultaneously bragging that he is the beneficiary of loopholes in the law, so consequently he has carried on with his illegal activities, while his victims are

Although he might feel he is “untouchable,” perhaps he feels he has the people in power on his side, but with evidence, all that can change. “That loophole, he claims he knows, is going to get you, the victim into deportation proceedings...that loophole is filling his pocket with cash...” facing the frightening and very real specter of deportation proceedings. This publication, Workers’ World Today, spoke with Brian Figeroux, Esq., of the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates on his popular radio show, Ask the Lawyer. Mr. Figeroux, who is a member of the American Immigration Association (AILA) for over two decades, possesses vast knowledge, experience, and compassion for the plight of the immigrant community. He questioned the nerve of Louison and the role of government officials who were elected to be the voice of the people. Victims Being Served an NTA Immigrants should be warned that if they used or are still using the services of Louison, they are at risk of being served a Notice to Appear (NTA), where they would be compelled to appear before the im-

Louison (Photo: Facebook)

migration court, who will make decisions based on their individual cases. Anyone who signed an I-360, I-765 or I-131 or unwittingly signed any blank forms without reading the contents or accessed any immigration services they were not qualified for, will be held responsible for their actions. It must be emphasized that immigration fraud is serious. Any immigrant found guilty will be banned for life from any immigration benefits. The majority of Louison’s victims weakened their defenses by signing blank forms for immigration benefits, for which they did not qualify. And, Louison, cunningly, did not sign the forms. Louison’s Loophole Being a registered notary, Louison faces a higher standard, and his punishment should be to the fullest extent of the law, where, if found

guilty, results in a lengthier prison sentence. A prerequisite for this to happen means that the victims must testify against him. The law has made a provision for such victims based on the U-Visa. Although he might feel he is “untouchable,” perhaps he feels he has the people in power on his side, but with proper evidence, all that can change. “That loophole, he claims he knows, is going to get you, the victim into deportation proceedings...that loophole is filling his pocket with cash…,” Figeroux explained. Role of the Government Officials Government officials like the District Attorney of Kings County, Eric Gonzales, and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke need to rise to the challenge of putting a stop to the nefarious activities of Louison. Such criminal activities, if not checked, will continue to grow, and more victims will fall prey to similar actions. As Figeroux said, “He says, ‘I am untouchable.’ Does he have the Congresswoman in his pocket? Does he have the District Attorney in his pocket? Obviously, not.” Congresswoman Clarke, whose office is across the street to Louison’s and who represents immigrants from the Caribbean in her Congressional District, thus far hasn’t made any official statement whatsoever. Her silence is shocking and inexplicable. As Figeroux asked, “Does she deserve to represent the Caribbean immigrant community? … These immigrants are

Legal Help Are you a victim of Louison’s immigration fraud? Get a FREE, no obligation consultation. Ask the Lawyer. Call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us desperate. They are scared. They need to survive. Will she help?” Concerned Citizens In these frightening times where the President of the United States of America has embarked on a witch hunt of immigrants, too many immigrants are falling victim to scams due to the justifiable fear of being deported. As Figeroux emphasizes, “This is a serious crime against immigrants from Jamaica, Grenada, Guyana, Trinidad, St. Vincent, S.t Lucia, Haiti and other Caribbean islands…. the Consul Generals for these countries should be concerned. And the Prime Ministers of these countries should be concerned.” Taking a Stand Take a stand. Let your voices be heard. Call the Office of the District Attorney of Kings County at 718-250-2000 and ask him: “What investigations are being conducted?” Call Congresswoman Clarke’s Brooklyn Office (222 Lenox Road) at 718-287-1142 and ask her: “What are you doing?” Let your voices be heard. “We put them in office. We could take them out of office if they do not protect us.” Remember, this is the United States of America, where we have the freedom to elect our government officials who work for us every day.p

Let Your Voice Be Heard! Send an email to info@workersworldtoday.com

November 2019

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In the News

Airline Food Workers Rally for Health Care

merican Airlines made more than $15 billion in profits over the past 5 years, but many of the workers who prepare food for the airline face a health care crisis. That’s why, in June, catering workers across the country overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike when released from federal mediation. In August, 58 workers and their supporters were arrested at American Airlines’ headquarters, demanding that the airline do its part to end poverty for catering workers. Last month, nearly 60 workers and their allies staged a die-in at American’s hub airport in Philadelphia following an approximately 700-person rally. Now, on one of the busiest travel days of the year, on November 26—the Tuesday before Thanksgiving Day—airline catering workers and their supporters will call

and their allies will converge at American Airlines’ JFK Terminal. Join us to demand that American Airlines end the health care crisis in the airline catering industry at JFK Terminal 8, Upper Level. This day of protests is the latest in a series of demonstrations at U.S. airports calling attention to American Airlines, including large-scale demonstrations in Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Dallas-Ft. Worth—where over 50 were arrested in a civil disobedience action near American Airlines’ headquarters and largest hub airport.p Learn more at onejob.org/american

CWA Launches New Programs for Veterans

n Veterans Day, Communications Workers of America (CWA) President Chris Shelton announced the CWA Veterans for Social Change program and a new National CWA Veterans Committee. As part of the CWA Veterans for Social Change launch, CWA military veterans joined more than 40 veterans from across the country for an Organizing Institute in October in New York City hosted by the Veterans Organizing Institute (VOI) and Common Defense, which is a veteran-led grass-

Statement by AFT President on Local Affiliate Endorsements for 2020

roots organization committed to engaging, training and mobilizing veterans to build power and promote progressive values. The VOI provided training on the unique role of former service members in past and current people-powered social justice efforts; on how to craft, deliver, and present resonant messages to multiple audiences and the news media; grassroots organizing; and political analysis. "Just as our veterans are showing that they are CWA STRONG by fighting for our

union values, CWA is making sure that our resources are supporting veterans and their families," said CWA President Shelton in a statement. "A new National CWA Veterans Committee, representing each District and Sector, will make sure that veterans' issues are front and center in our political, legislative, human rights, and organizing agenda." p

ashington, DC: American Federation of Teachers (AFT), President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement after the United Teachers Los Angeles House of Representatives voted to endorse Sen. Bernie Sanders for the Democratic nomination for president: “The AFT fundamentally revamped our presidential endorsement process this cycle, and in our first phase we have seen unprecedented engagement and empowerment of our 1.7 million members across 3,500 locals and 40 state federations. Our members have engaged with campaigns and candidates, asking questions about the issues that matter most to them, during our 10 candidate town halls and numerous other events and actions. This first phase of the process will culminate in a national candidate forum on public education, which we will host with our allies on Dec. 14 in Pittsburgh. “As part of this AFT Votes endorsement process, we have

enabled locals and state federations, if they choose, prior to any national endorsement, to endorse a candidate for the purpose of their state primary or caucus. Last night, UTLA voted to endorse Sen. Bernie Sanders using its own iteration of that process, based on its long history with the senator and his long-standing support for a propublic school agenda. “We anticipate that other AFT affiliates may endorse other candidates prior to their states’ primary or caucus. Our recent member polling indicates that Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Elizabeth Warren have healthy double-digit support, followed by Sanders and several other Democratic candidates. “Educators, healthcare professionals and public employees across this country are engaging in the 2020 election with unprecedented enthusiasm, and we are thrilled that our members are already so involved in this campaign; when our democracy is at stake, no one can afford to sit on the sidelines. We look forward to continuing our engagement with the campaigns as our national endorsement process plays out, and to uniting around an eventual nominee as we work together to beat Donald Trump next November.”p

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November 2019

From Worker to Business Owner

Business Plans Help You to Run Your Business

good business plan guides you through each stage of starting and managing your business. You’ll use your business plan as a roadmap for how to structure, run, and grow your new business. It’s a way to think through the key elements of your business. Business plans can help you get funding or bring on new business partners. Investors want to feel confident they’ll see a return on their investment. Your business plan is the tool you’ll use to convince people that working with you — or investing in your company — is a smart choice. Pick a business plan format that works for you There’s no right or wrong way to write a business plan. What’s important is that your plan meets your needs. Most business plans fall into one of two common categories: traditional or lean startup. Traditional business plans are more common, use a standard structure, and encourage

you to go into detail in each section. They tend to require more work upfront and can be dozens of pages long. Lean startup business plans are less common but still use a standard structure. They focus on summarizing only the most important points of the key elements of your plan. They can take as little as one hour to make and are typically only one page. Traditional business plan format You might prefer a traditional

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

business plan format if you’re very detail oriented, want a comprehensive plan, or plan to request financing from traditional sources. When you write your business plan, you don’t have to stick to the exact business plan outline. Instead, use the sections that make the most sense for your business and your needs. Traditional business plans use some combination of these nine sections: •Executive summary •Company description

•Market analysis •Organization and management •Service or product line •Marketing and sales •Funding request •Financial projections •Appendix Lean startup format You might prefer a lean startup format if you want to explain or start your business quickly, your business is relatively simple, or you plan to regularly change and refine your business plan.

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Lean startup formats are charts that use only a handful of elements to describe your company’s value proposition, infrastructure, customers, and finances. They’re useful for visualizing tradeoffs and fundamental facts about your company. There are many versions of lean startup templates, but one of the oldest and most well known is the Business Model Canvas, developed by Alex Osterwalder. You can search the web to find free templates of the Business Model Canvas, or other versions, to build your business plan. Here are the nine components of the Business Model Canvas: •Key partnerships •Key activities •Key resources •Value proposition •Customer relationships •Customer segments •Channels •Costs structure •Revenue Streamsp Source: www.sba.gov

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

No. 25

Sexual Harassment in Housing

I said no and he evicted me. •The housing authority inspector wouldn’t approve the apartment I wanted to rent with my voucher unless I performed a sexual act on him. I agreed in order to get my family off the street. •The maintenance man won’t fix anything in my apartment unless I have sex with

him. I don’t know what I’m going to do about the broken heater when it gets even colder. •I went to look at a home to rent and the owner told me he would lower the rent if I had sex with him. •I wanted to buy a home. When I went to look at it, the loan officer grabbed my

Staging During the Holidays

hen you’re selling your home, you want it to look its absolute best for the potential buyers who walk through the door. That’s where home staging comes in. This is a growing trend in real estate. It is especially important in slow markets with high inventory and many competing homes. Home staging is a method of decorating meant to highlight your home’s most impressive assets and help buyers imagine themselves moving in and living there. Do it right, and you should have no problem selling your home quickly. According to the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) 2017 Staging Stats report, 49% of buyers’ agents believe that home staging has an effect on how a buyer views the home, with 77% saying that it makes it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their own. On the sellers’ agent side, 21% report that home staging increases the value of a home between 6% and 10%, and 39% note that it greatly decreases the total amount of time a home is on the market. Individuals who have their property on the market over the holidays face unique challenges when staging. It is easy to go overboard with decoration, making it difficult for buyers to see the home’s full potential. Entice holiday

line, the front door typically impacts a first impression once they arrive in person. Use small accents like wreaths and planters to make a festive statement. The NAR suggests using silver colors as they will shine in the sun and grab a buyer’s attention. Be sure to keep the steps clear of clutter and free of snow and ice if shoppers will be stopping by when winter weather is present.

home shoppers into making a purchase by using these staging tips from NAR: Stage the Table Give your potential buyers the ability to visualize a holiday meal by setting the table for a feast. Consider an attractive tablecloth which works with the existing design scheme and a candle-lit centerpiece. Show off how much space is available for gatherings by placing slim chairs around the table and place plates, silverware and glasses in front of each. This comfortable environment can entice potential buyers by showcasing the entertainment value a home has. Spruce up the Front Door A home’s entrance is like a person’s smile. While many shoppers have already viewed the interior and exterior of a property on-

Take Advantage of a Fireplace Buyers also pay attention to a mantle’s attractiveness and potential. You can make it stand out in your room by draping small stockings, leafy garland and matching candles to tie a room together. It’s important not to overdo this centerpiece as excessive decorating may take away from its beauty. Hiring a Stager It’s OK, if you’re not an interior designer, you can still obtain attractive staging by hiring a professional. Check around your local community for experts in your area. Their assistance can be the difference in a home sitting on the market or a speedy sale. Get Help Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance. Schedule an appointment today. Call us at 888-670-6791.n

breasts. I said no and left immediately. I never heard about the home or the loan again. •The security guard in my apartment building has been talking about my body and sending me naked pictures. I asked him to stop. I came home one day and found him naked in my bed. •The owner of the home I rent makes comments about my body, clothes, and the sexual acts he wants me to perform on him. continued on page 3

EQUITY SMART REALTY

Increasing Your Home’s Value

BY JOE SZYNKOWSKI

ot all home improvement projects are the same. The impact of a project or upgrade depends on factors such as the market you’re in, and your existing home value. Some projects like adding a pool or wood floors tend to have bigger increases for more expensive homes, while projects like a kitchen remodel or adding a full bathroom tend to have a bigger increase for less expensive homes. With housing prices increasing again, there has never been a better time to invest in your home. There are always ways to improve the value of your home — no matter your budget. Check out the following suggestions, categorized into three modest price points:

Improvements under $500 lPaint. Simple and cost effective, fresh paint will have a dramatic impact on a space. lRemove outdated ceilings. In the 1980s and 90s, popcorn ceilings were all the rage. And now, their time has come to an end. This project requires more elbow grease than money. lAttend to small repairs. This means things like a loose hinge on a kitchen cabinet, burned out light bulbs, squeaky doors and jiggly handles. While these things may not seem like much, they speak to the care of a home. Improvements $500-$1,500 lInstall closet storage. Closets can be a blank canvas for clutter. Installing organiz-

Call 888-670-6791 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Downtown Brooklyn

ers keeps things in their place and provide a little luxury. lImprove small bathrooms. This could be as simple as new light fixtures, an updated vanity or a new shower curtain. You are guaranteed to see a return on investment on most bathroom upgrades, so this is a safe area to spend on. lUpgrade old appliances. Kitchens add big value to your home, so even updating the sink or swapping out a microwave range hood for a sleek drop down will maximize value. Improvements $1,500 and Up lUpdate flooring. This could be as simple as replacing the tiles in the small hall bath or removing the wall-to-wall carpeting and installing hardwoods throughout. lRefresh exterior paint. Curb appeal is a big deal and can increase the property val-

ues of an entire neighborhood. A fresh coat of paint keeps things looking clean and crisp. lResurface concrete. While a cracked driveway or walkway may not seem like much, the weeds growing in the cracks whisper of neglect. A solid surface stained eith an attractive color shows that a property is well-looked-after. Remember that the cost and payback of each project will vary depending on your region of the country, neighborhood within that region, as well as the overall condition of your home.n

Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance. Schedule an appointment today. Call us at 888-6706791.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Tenant Privacy and the Landlord's Right to Enter Rental Property BY JANET HOWARD

any people don't realize that the law restricts the ability of a landlord to enter a tenant's home or apartment. Laws vary by state, but landlords usually need to notify a tenant ahead of time before scheduling an inspection or entering to make repairs. Only in emergencies are landlords typically allowed to enter a rental unit without providing advance warning. Before someone becomes a landlord, they should develop a good working knowledge of the laws and ordinances that govern tenant privacy. Background In the United States, there is the common law principle of "the right of quiet enjoyment." This gives tenants the right to live in rented housing as the sole occupants. A landlord, or people working for the landlord, cannot just come and go as they please; they must follow state and local laws regarding entering rental property. Reasons for Entry State and local landlord-tenant laws define the reasons why a landlord can enter a rental unit as well as whether the landlord must give advance notice to the tenant. Typical reasons why a landlord may be permit-

ted under the law to enter a renter's home include: •Inspections: Some jurisdictions give landlords the right to schedule inspections to make sure that the rental property is in good condition and to address potential problems before they become costly to repair. •Repairs: If a landlord becomes aware of the need for repairs or the tenant requests that repairs be made, the landlord is allowed to enter the rental unit. •Abandonment: Occasionally, tenants simply move out of a rental property without informing the landlord. If the landlord has good reason to believe that a tenant has abandoned the property, the law often gives the landlord the right to enter and clean out the property so that it can be re-rented to someone else.

•Emergency: If a landlord has reason to believe that a dangerous condition exists in the rental unit, such as frozen pipes or fire, the landlord usually can enter the unit to identify and address the problem. Providing Notice The law often requires landlords to provide tenants with advance notice of the landlord's plans to enter the tenant's home. The notice may be written or verbal, and the law may also require a waiting period before the landlord can enter the unit. The tenant may also be able to ask the landlord to reschedule the visit to a time more convenient to the tenant. Lease Terms In some cases, a tenant's lease may specify the conditions under which a landlord can enter the rental. It's important to note, however, that lease terms cannot provide fewer protections than those provided by the law. For example, if the law states that a landlord must provide tenants with a 24-hour written notice before entering, a valid lease cannot state that the landlord only has to give 12-hours. Clauses that violate state and local laws can invalidate the lease. Legal Remedies Both landlords and tenants usually have legal remedies in cases where one partybreaks the law or lease terms regarding landlords entering the rental unit. For example, a landlord may be able to sue and/or terminate the lease of a tenant who refuses to allow the landlord into a rental. Conversely, a tenant may be able to sue the landlord or terminate their lease if the landlord enters the rental unit without following proper procedures. If the tenant wishes to stay in the rental unit, he or she may even be able to get a restraining order against the landlord. Getting Help Landlords and tenants who have questions about a tenant's right to privacy in a landlord's right to enter a rental unit should seek attorneys who handle landlord-tenant issues and can advise clients about their rights and the best way to handle their situation. Understanding legal rights and responsibilities improves landlord-tenant relationships. Both property owners and renters should review state laws so that they understand when a landlord can enter a property and how he or she needs to notify the tenant of an upcoming visit. If you have a landlord or tenant issue, please do not take the law in your own hands. Get a FREE consultation. Ask the Lawyer. Call 855-768-8845.n

Sexual Harassment/ continued from page 1

he Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing led by the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. The goal of the Initiative is to address sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing. Sexual harassment in housing includes demands for sex or sexual acts in order to buy, rent, or continue renting a home. It also includes other unwelcome sexual conduct that makes it hard to keep living in or feel comfortable in your home. The following may be examples of sexual harassment in housing: •My landlord made a lot of comments about having sex with me. I ignored him. When I fell behind on rent, he said there was another way I could pay. I said no and he evicted me. •The housing authority inspector wouldn’t approve the apartment I wanted to rent with my voucher unless I performed a sexual act on him. I agreed in order to get my family off the street. •The maintenance man won’t fix anything in my apartment unless I have sex with him. I don’t know what I’m going to do about the broken heater when it gets even colder. •I went to look at a home to rent and the owner told me he would lower the rent if I had sex with him. •I wanted to buy a home. When I went to look at it, the loan officer grabbed my breasts. I said no and left immediately. I never heard about the home or the loan again. •The security guard in my apartment building has been talking about my body and sending me naked pictures. I asked him to stop. I came home one day and found him naked in my bed. •The owner of the home I rent makes comments about my body, clothes, and the sexual acts he wants me to perform on him. Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against New York Property Owner In August 2019, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that Douglas S. Waterbury and his co-defendants will be obligated to pay $850,000 in damages and civil penalties to resolve two Fair Housing Act lawsuits alleging that Waterbury sexually harassed numerous female tenants and prospective tenants for nearly three decades at properties he owned in and around Oswego, New York. The Department filed one of the lawsuits and a group of private plaintiffs brought the other. Under the Consent Decree in United States of America v. Douglas S. Waterbury, et al., which still must be approved by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, Defendants have agreed to pay a total of $450,000, which includes $400,000 in monetary damages to former tenants and potential tenants who were harmed as a result of the sexual harassment, as well as a $50,000 civil penalty. Additionally, the Defendants will pay $400,000 to compensate nine plaintiffs in the related private suit. The Consent Decree also bars Douglas S. Waterbury from participating in the rental or management of residential properties.

HOME OWNERSHIP

Things Home Buyers Forget

uying a home is a hectic, rewarding and sometimes scary experience. Many homebuyers forget or are unaware of important steps which make the process easier. According to the National Association of Realtors, the average buyer takes about 12 weeks before they officially buy a home. Making this sizeable investment requires great patience, proper research and sticking to budget. Take your time to find the property that speaks to you and offers everything on your list. If you are planning to begin house hunting, keep these tips in mind from the American Society of Home Inspections (ASHI) before signing on the dotted line. Set a Budget Develop a budget before you even begin your search. To avoid foreclosures or becoming overwhelmed financially, it is crucial to know what you can afford. Avoid visiting homes outside of your price range as it is easy to become infatuated with expensive features or properties. A great way to know your limit is by being pre-approved for a loan. Make an appointment with a local lender to determine how the asking price of a home will look as a monthly payment. You should also consider the extra expenses a home requires like utilities, repairs, possibly association fees and property taxes.

4 Tips to Writing a Great Real Estate Agent Resume

eal estate agents generally work “for themselves.” But that doesn’t mean once you earn your real estate license, your resume writing days are over. Licensed real estate agents must hang their license with a broker. Your real estate resume presents an opportunity to shine a light on your skills and accomplishments and earn you a seat in the interview chair with the brokerage of your dreams. Here are four tips you can use today to write a stronger real estate resume and open yourself up to bigger and better opportunities:

Get an Inspection Once you have decided on a home which meets your budget and desires, don’t skip an inspection. A professional will investigate the home and find issues that you may have missed during the excitement. They will also analyze the integrity of the home from aspects that aren’t easy to spot if you’re inexperienced. Some things they will inspect include: • Integrity of the foundation. • Electrical system safety. • Soundness of the structure. • Plumbing and HVAC problems. Worry about the Important Things You may walk in a home and be unimpressed with decoration schemes, color

choices or types of appliances. Buying new furniture or repainting rooms is easy and can be done down the road. The ASHI urges buyers to consider the important aspects of a home when house hunting. Instead of the appearances, pay attention to how well the layout works for you, number of rooms and functionality of the property. Free Consultation Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance. Schedule an appointment today. For a free consultation on buying a home, down payment assistance or tax issues, call us at 855-768-8845.n

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

1. Start with a Strong Headline People often focus their resume-building efforts on listing professional accomplishments and education experience…just the facts. They forget that the ultimate goal is to tell the broker who they are, and why they’d be a great addition to the agent roster. (This is good practice for when you join a brokerage and have to sell your personal brand.) A headline is often undervalued. Many resumes don’t even include them. But a great headline can establish your identity and set the tone that the reader carries with them throughout your entire real estate resume. The headline is where you emphasize your unique selling points. 2. Demonstrate Self-motivation Recruiting is the lifeblood of any real estate brokerage. However, time and money spent recruiting people who ultimately don’t earn their license or fail within the first year of earning a license, is a major loss for brokers. While many brokers have training and mentorship programs available, a broker’s ideal candidate is one who will hit the ground running with as little support from the broker as possible. 3. What You’ve Done Matters More than Where You’ve Been The things you’ve achieved matter more on a real estate resume than where you achieved them and how long you stayed there. It is important to list previous experience, but the bullet points listed beneath those former brokers or employers is the meat of your previous experience. List and explain awards you’ve won. Detail a successful project you took the reins on and point to the value of your leadership. Spell out impressive sales numbers and what you did to achieve them. So brag a little—you’ve earned it! 4. Emphasize Your Specialty A common mistake we all make when writing a resume is assuming that we need to appear to be an expert in everything. But that’s a fruitless endeavor. Nobody is great at everything and trying to reflect that unrealistic reality on your resume will likely make you look like an expert in nothing. There are naturally areas where you excel. This is your specialty, your personal brand as a real estate professional, and it’s the reason you’re an ideal candidate for this broker’s agent roster. n Source: Kapre.com Ready to be a real estate agent? Sign up at www.nacc.nyc/kaplan. Use the code: Chamber 5 for a discount.

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November 2019

Love, Health & Travel

3 Things that Can Influence an Affair BY JENNINE ESTES, MFT

nfidelity happens for a lot of reasons. When there is a fracture in your relationship because of bad communication, trust issues, or other root problems, one partner will seek comfort and attention outside of the relationship. If you and your partner have hit a rough spot in your relationship, there are some behaviors that may trigger an affair. Here are some things to avoid: 1. Browsing Online When you are having a hard time connecting with your partner, it might be tempting to find someone to connect with online. Meeting someone new sounds exciting, and you imagine they will shower you with attention and questions about yourself. This is why it’s so important to avoid dating sites and personals when you are experiencing strain in your relationship. Even casually browsing dating ads might be too much temptation to reach outside of your relationship. 2. Dangerous Memories If you have cheated before, allowing your memory to drift back to the excitement of the affair is dangerous. Certain music, restaurants where you saw the other person, or other specific triggers may bring your mind back to the time you were cheating. Even if you haven’t cheated, you might start fantasizing about an ex and certain movies, food, or music can take you back to that previous relationship. Focus on creating new positive memories with your current partner instead of concentrating on the dangerous memory triggers that tempt you to seek out someone new.

Meeting someone new sounds exciting, and you imagine they will shower you with attention and questions about yourself. 3. Surrounding Yourself with Singles When things are hard at home, being out at a bar with a bunch of single people will present tons of temptation. While you shouldn’t avoid going out with friends, be careful about the situations you put yourself in. Being out and about with people who are flirting and looking to date will only be a huge temptation to start looking for love and attention outside of your relationship. If you and your partner are struggling to stay connected in your relationship, counseling is a helpful asset. A therapist is

an impartial party to help you figure out how to reestablish your secure attachment, rather than continuing to fracture it. Once you relearn how to turn to your partner, you will notice less temptation to seek outside validation. p

Jennine Estes is a Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, CA., certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. She writes relationship and selfgrowth advice for her column, Relationships in the Raw. She is the creator of #BeingLOVEDIs campaign. MFC#47653.

rom an award-winning historian, a stirring (and timely) narrative history of American labor from the dawn of the industrial age to the present day. From the textile mills of Lowell, Massachusetts, the first real factries in America, to the triumph of unions in the twentieth century and their waning influence today, the contest between labor and capital for their share of American bounty has shaped our national experience. Philip Dray’s ambition is to show us the vital accomplishments of organized labor in that time and illuminate its central role in our social, political, economic, and cultural evolution. There Is Power in a Union is an epic, character-driven narrative that locates this struggle for security and dignity in all its various settings: on picket lines and in union halls, jails, assembly lines, corporate boardrooms, the courts, the halls of Congress, and the White House. The author demonstrates, viscerally and dramatically, the urgency of the fight for fairness and economic democracy—a struggle that remains especially urgent today, when ordinary Americans are so anxious and beset by economic woes. From reader, Eileen: Great book. Traces the history of labor in America from the Lowell mills of the 1820s through the end of the twentieth century. While it doesn't cover the current battles over collective bargaining rights for public employees it hints at the themes that will dominate this century - globalization of industry and labor, the energy crisis, how unions can retain their relevance when they represent only 12 percent of the U.S. workforce, and the movement by corporations to shift the burden of worker pensions to individuals or the government. This book is long (almost 700 pages) but is very entertaining and much more a history than a discussion of current issues. If you are not familiar with the turbulent, often violent, story of labor in America (steelworkers v. Carnegie in Homestead PA, the Pullman strike, Haymarket riots, the Molly Maguires, coalminers v. Rockefeller in Ludlow CO, UAW workers v. Ford/GM) this book is a must-read. From reader, Dorian: Philip Dray is a phenomenal writer and this masterpiece is one of the best books I've ever read. I clung to every word of Dray's prolific account of the labor movement in the United States. With a commanding narrative voice, he takes you from the era in which the movement was burgeoning and barely coherent to the points when it became the solidified but embattled political institution that it is today. He covered the place of unions in history and today fairly, from their strengths as vanguards for worker solidarity between communities that otherwise would probably not have interacted much, to their faults, like exclusion on the basis of gender, race, and ethnicity, as well as their tactical blunders in different points of history and upheaval to garner support from external forces. It appropriately leads up to an accurate reflection of how labor fares today and what resolutions it could take to become reinvigorated. Simply fantastic. p Source: goodreads.com If you would like your book reviewed, please call 718-771-0988. nSpouse’s signature not needed

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November 2019

Love, Health & Travel

How to Take the Stress Out of Holiday Travel BY VICTORIA FALK

ccording to the American Automobile Association, over 45 million people are expected to travel this winter holiday season. The holiday season is a precious time for many people who enjoy being with friends and family. It’s an exciting time of the year, a joyous occasion, and yes – it can also be very stressful as you’re trying to find the best way to get to your destination. Plan ahead. You definitely want to plan your travel route before the start date of your vacation. If you are driving across country to visit friends and family, make sure you have correct driving directions. Check for road closures, detours, and other delays that may affect your trip. Make sure you have current information about where you’re going. If the last time you made the trip was for last year’s holiday season, there is a possibility that road conditions may have changed. You want to know these things before you go on your trip.

Prepare for emergencies. You do not want to be that person who is sitting in their vehicle, on the side of the road, waiting for help to come. Furthermore, other drivers should not have to call their families to tell them they’ll be late for holiday dinner because they are stuck behind you on the road. It may be cheaper for you to drive this holiday season, instead of paying for airplane tickets. But, can your car handle the road trip? Check your vehicle thoroughly before your road trip to make sure it is in good condition for the trip you’re planning. Each year as millions of people take the road, it’s not unusual to see

traffic delays as drivers slow down to look at or try to go around those vehicles that for whatever reason, have broken down, stopped, stalled, etc., and are holding up traffic. Nobody wants to think about getting a flat tire or running out of oil during their trip to their family’s house for holiday dinner. But if you want to take the stress out of holiday travel, consider the possibilities and be prepared. Make sure your tires are in good condition and carry a spare tire in the trunk; along with a jack in the event you need to change a tire. Make sure your fluid levels are sufficient and carry enough oil, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, etc., to make sure you have enough for your trip. Fill up the gas tank before you go and make stops to get more gas so your meter is never approaching empty. Remember that membership has privileges, and consider enrolling in roadside assistance services. Get an early start. Whether you are driving to your friends and

family or driving to the airport to board a plane, you want to get an early start. During the holiday season, expect traffic to be heavier than usual and prepare for delays by giving yourself enough travel time. If you are flying within the United States, it is advised to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before flight departure time. However, if you are making an international flight, you must be inside the airport and checked in to your flight at least 3 hours before the expected flight departure time. Airlines can and will deny you access to board a plane if you have not been checked into the flight by the required time. The airports will be more crowded than usual so you will need more time to get through check-in, baggage claims, security, etc. Communicate early. Contact your friends and family to discuss your holiday travel plans. Ask them if there is anything you should know before your trip that may be helpful to ensure your travel is as convenient and comfortable as

possible. Let friends and family know the time you’re departing your location and when you are expected to reach your travel destination so they can be there to welcome you with open arms. Contact your travel professional for more great travel tips and decide now if you need to make changes to your holiday plans. As we head into the busiest travel season of the year, timing is perfect to enroll in our Travel Agent Program. Register today to become a Certified Travel Agent and Destination Specialist. Visit www.nacc.nyc/travelagent. The Chamber also offers a Small Business Boot Camp. Details can be found at www.nacc.nycp

Victoria Falk is the award-winning CEO of Passionate Travel Inc. Take the stress out of vacation planning and save your energy to do the things you love doing. Contact Victoria to make your travel dreams a reality at 800-890-7492. Visit www.passionatetravelinc.com

Earn extra income... Enjoy perks! Become a Certified Travel Agent &Destination Specialist

WHY BECOME A TRAVEL AGENT? Travel is an 8.1 trillion dollar industry. Some of that money can be yours! Attend our 4-week Travel Agent Program. Learn how to: •Book travel and earn higher travel commissions •Use travel to raise funds for your church, nonprofit, charity, etc •Start and grow a profitable travel business •Use social media to market your business •Become eligible for major tax advantages

For dates and registration, please visit: www.nacc.nyc/travelagent Call 718-722-9217 for assistance.

Cost: $250.00 (Chamber members) $350.00 (non-members) Fee includes Travel Agent training and your own online travel business and Individual Chamber Membership. Certificates will be given out to those who successfully complete the program. We recommend doing our Small Business Boot Camp. You can start your travel business with a SSN or an ITIN.

November 2019

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Love, Health & Travel

Anxiety– Causes and How to Overcome It BY ERIN TELESFORD The other day, June had a strange experience at work. She checked in and sat down at her desk as usual and began working on her assignment. About an hour had passed and she suddenly felt a sharp pain in the middle of her chest. It only lasted for a moment, so she let it go and eventually forgot it ever happened. Then she felt another sudden pain in the same place. Within minutes she was bombarded with small shocks of pain every minute or so. Her hands began to feel cold and clammy; she broke out in a cold sweat; her stomach and upper back ached. Her heart began to race causing shortness of breath, blurry vision and tremors in her hands. She had no idea what was happening and was terrified. After the stiffness and tightness in her chest and back spread to her arms, she believed it was a heart attack. Sitting quietly and very still at her desk, surrounded by people working away, June panicked, in her mind believing she only had minutes left to live. She was

afraid to stand in case her heart suddenly stopped, and she’d drop dead on the floor. But, suddenly, her name was called, she stood up and walked over to a co-worker standing in the doorway. Everything was normal. She even smiled and laughed like nothing was wrong. Eventually she had to sit back down at her desk, and her fear of death started all over again. The feeling that June had was, in fact, not a heart attack, but a panic attack– a symptom of her Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Panic attacks are a form of anxiety that causes shortness of breath, blurry vision, and a feeling of fight or flight. It often

makes its sufferers believe death is imminent, though symptoms vary per person. Anxiety is focused more on the fight or flight response caused by chemical reactions in the brain. Vox’s, “The Mind: Explained,” gives an example of a warthog’s experience of anxiety when it sees a lion in the wild. “That warthog’s amygdala, the emotional center of the brain, identifies the lion as a threat and that releases adrenaline throughout the body. It prepares the body to face the threat and fight, or to flee. The warthog’s heart is racing and breathing speeds up, lung passages expand and certain blood vessels dilate. All to make sure

plenty of oxygen gets to the muscles needed to flee. Those muscles tense, ready for action. The warthog’s pupils dilate to take in more of the scene. Its peripheral vision shrinks to focus on the lion in front of it. Other systems get shut down. The warthog stops salivating and digesting. Blood flow is diverted away from the stomach, skin, and nerves involved in arousal get turned off.” So why do humans continue to suffer from anxiety now that it is not always necessary for survival? Anxiety can be inherited through our genes. If you have one parent who suffers from anxiety, chances are, you will too. Women are twice as likely to have anxiety than men. An imbalance of chemicals in the brain, like serotonin, can cause anxiety, as well as traumatic experiences. Anxiety disorders reside in four categories: Catastrophic– People with these disorders experience an overwhelming belief that something very bad is going to happen. This includes separation anxiety and phobias. Evaluation– The distinctive fea-

ture of this category is social anxiety which includes selective mutism and the fear of being watched and judged. Losing Control– This comes hand in hand with panic disorder, the fear of the loss of control you have during a panic attack. “Agoraphobia takes it to an extreme,” people who have it avoid public places that might trigger an attack. Uncertainty– This is the fear of not knowing what is going to happen. This includes Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD– which is the fixation on impulses, thoughts and rituals– and other disorders. The rise of anxiety in today’s society is closely associated with the rise of anxiety consumerism. Weighted blankets, fidget cubes and spinners have a high marketplace on Amazon and other sites, with many items being targeted to children and teens. Based on data collected by the National Survey of Children’s Health, researchers found a 20 percent increase in diagnoses of anxiety for ages 6-17. The most prominent reason for this jump

continued on page 22

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November 2019

Conversations Student Loans continued from page 8 sign a contract or agreement on the spot, walk away. Always bring home important forms so you can read them more carefully and review them with people you trust. Make sure you consider the long term. A typical bachelor’s degree program takes four to six years to complete, and there’s a limit on how much money you can borrow in federal student loans. Make sure you can afford to pay tuition and living expenses for the entire time it takes to complete the program. Keep in mind that financial aid offers tend to be higher for the first year and may be reduced in later years. Also make sure you can afford to pay back your loans once you graduate. Except for rare circumstances, student loans are not dischargeable in bankruptcy. Be careful of taking on too much debt. Make sure you understand the terms of any loans and that you will be able to make the payments. The same goes for your parents if they’re considering federal Parent PLUS loans or

Brain Bounces/continued from page 7

being your cosigner on private student loans. Loans can lower your credit score if you don’t pay them back on time, and student loan debt generally cannot be discharged in bankruptcy. Unpaid private student loan debt may result in legal action from debt collectors, and successful suits can lead to garnishment of your wages or tax liens on your property. Unpaid federal student loan debt can also lead to wage garnishment, as well as garnishment of your tax refund or Social Security payments. Know your payment start date so you don’t miss any payments. Federal student loans and some private student loans allow you to defer payment while you’re in school and for six months after graduation. This is known as a grace period. Some loans, like Parent PLUS loans, require payment as soon as the loan is disbursed. Important: Some loans, like unsubsidized federal loans, might accrue interest while you are in school and during the grace period. Subsidized loans do not accrue interest while you are in school or during the grace period.p Source: Department of Consumer Affairs

•Install handrails on staircases •If you have young children, install gates at the top and bottom of your staircases. We are all incredibly busy these days so we might forget, just be too lazy or exhausted, so consequently, we don’t tidy up our homes as expeditiously as we should. You usually don’t associate the bathroom as a dangerous room. But if your family circle includes an elderly parent who enters the bathroom and closes the door and who might open himself up to a fall, go to a hardware store and purchase: •Shower /tub seat •Low-entry shower •Handrail in the tub •If your apartment is not furnished with wall to wall carpet, don’t walk barefoot; wear instead nonslip socks or slippers. You want to go outside. The perils continue. What can happen outdoors? Plenty. Don’t just walk outside and dreamily gaze at the floating clouds in the azure sky or admire the beauty of nature. According to Ventura Health, be aware of the ground beneath your feet, particularly on those days the meteorologist predicted rain or snow. Be prepared for your activities whether you decide to go for a run, walk or bike ride. Familiarize yourself with the path and wear appropriate footwear.” Leave those slippery flip flops in the closet and wear water repellent boots in the rain. Your car today is no longer a vehicle that just takes you from Point A to Point B. Now it’s a vehicle where you take advantage of today’s technology and text and it’s also your dinner table. As a result of all of these distractions, you cannot concentrate on the road ahead of you in your im-

Anxiety/continued from page 21 is the rise of social media and screen usage. Teens who spend more time on screens and social media are more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and feel more isolated, which worsens anxiety symptoms. Social media uses anxiety as fuel to keep people on their apps, creating a cycle of worsening anxiety and isolation. Quitting social media helps decrease anxiety; however, it does not treat all the symptoms. Some people believe alcohol reduces the effects of anxiety for them; however, it has been proven that alcohol increases the symptoms and effects of anxiety over time. Others choose to use marijuana to combat their anxiety. Although the chemical THC tends to make your heartbeat increase, which could cause anxiety, another chemical in marijuana called CBD has been seen to reduce anxiety. Many people use CBD infused oils, vitamins and skincare in hopes that the chemical will give them a calm-

mediate line of vision. If you don’t want to be lying on a hospital bed with your loved ones standing around you with sad faces and with all of your regrets, remember, that text message could have waited until you parked your car. Eating that sandwich could have waited until you parked your car; you could not have been that hungry. Buckle up your seat belt; it’s not just embellishment for the interior of your car. According to Universal Class, “the sudden lurch forward when a car stops abruptly can cause brain damage, but a seat belt …can lessen the damage.” Regularly inspect your air bags to ascertain that they are in tip top shape. Remember your passengers. Mainline.org tells you your child should be seated in age and size appropriate car seats and booster seats. According to Inside Science, “Benjamin Franklin once said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Words of wisdom that ring true in today’s field of public health as they did in the streets of colonial Philadelphia.”p

If you have suffered a concussion, you should immediately contact the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates at 855-768-8845. ing sensation without the “high” of the drug. However, the majority of chosen options for anxiety treatment remains to be prescription drugs, exercise and talk therapy. The most effective combination of treatments recorded are prescription drugs and therapy; however, professionals believe there needs to be better treatment options developed, as well as more studies focused on solving anxiety. If you are concerned that you or a loved one is suffering from an anxiety disorder, be sure not to self-diagnose or treat. Anxiety and all other mental illnesses must be diagnosed and treated by a doctor.p

Notary Public Training Course This 3‑hour New York Notary Pub‑ lic Training course is designed to educate individuals with the legal terminology, concepts and clauses contained in the framework of the New York State Notary booklet.

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