Certify CNY May/June 2020 Edition

MAY/JUNE 2020| VOL. 2

CERTIFY CNY

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Onondaga County Responds:

Monica WilliamsÂ

"WHEN WHITE FOLKS CATCH A COLD, BLACK FOLKS GET

Remains optimistic and committed to her vision as new Chief of Diversity for Onondaga County

PNEUMONIA."

Her advice to MWBE's in this shifting global economic climate

CERTIFY CNY

COVID-19

PANDEMIC

THE REALITY &

THE IMPACT ON MINORITY ENTREPRENEURS

The Long Road Ahead For CNY MWBE'S

Publisher's Note COVID-19's disruptive culture has wreaked havoc on the world economy and life as we know it. This issue, we examine the impact from health to wealth on the minority community around the country. "Get Your Chips Up." Covid-19 ushered in a titanic shift in our use of technology. Is it enough to bridge the digital divide? Will minority firms gain with greater exposure & access to technology?

Welcome back! In our inaugural issue, we gave you highlights of some of CNY's most successful minority-owned firms, the pulse of MWBE certification in Central New York, and a peek at some upcoming projects.

While we remain steadfast at identifying, creating, and promoting opportunities to advance MWBE's, in this issue we made a conscious choice to cover the impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on our daily lives. Covid-19 has effectively changed the way we live forever. From all manner of business, to the way we consume, the rapid shift in the global economy will have reverberations for decades.

As a digital publication, we met first hand with life under the constraints of Covid-19 having to conduct all interviews for this issue remotely. We have also moved our Certification classes fully online. We are grateful for the ability to still deliver content while remaining socially distant. Until the CDC issues further guidance on social distancing, we will continue to do what we have always done - innovate. In this edition, we talk with others, pioneers in this new digital frontier and economic age. For these companies, it's "Business As Usual."

Rickey T. Brown RICKEY T. BROWN Editor-in-Chief CERTIFY CNY | 02

Here are a few tips that helped my company survive during this crisis: Organization. Strong record keeping was critical to gaining access to programs such as the Paychex Protection Program.

Resource sharing; having a robust network that is willing to share information in regards to access to programs was also helpful. Lastly, persistence. The mark of any good entrepreneur is the ability to conquer "NO."

05

DOT CONNECTOR "Ayo, this brother's stillmatic, I crawled up out of that grave, wiping that dirt, cleaning my shirt, they thought I'd make another Illmatic, but it's always forward I'm moving never backwards."

11

EDITOR/WRITER Diana Clark is a bi-lingual teacher by day, and a writer and editor in her spare time. She is passionate about social justice and education.

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COVID-19 UNMASKED The medical disparities in Covid-19 deaths are being priminently discussed around the nation. See the impact in our infograph.

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CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER, MONICA WILLIAMS Monica Williams, the new Chief Diversity Officer for Onondaga County, forecasts changes to the procurement processes, and discusses relief for MWBE's and her vision for her new role.

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KIN STUDIO (A)KIN TO BEAUIFUL DESIGN Meet architect, Diana Jaramillo of Kin Studio. Her beautiful designs, her future, and her human-centered work.

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STRICTLY BUSINESS: RA-MENES CONSTRUCTION With his eye on expanding into trucking, John Pertiller is determined to prosper through Covid-19 and credits his success to preparation.

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ON THE FRONT LINE: SAFE CARE LLC Lotan Mitchell, Principal of Safe Care LLC, a medical transportation copamany and DKCNY Property Managment on crowd funding.

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MENTAL HEALTH DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC Yaschia Kinsey, LMHC gives us her advice for self-care during the Covid19 crisis.

CERTIFY CNY

SPECIAL THANKS COMMONSPACE Troy Evans DREISSIG APPAREL CO. Marc Jones GOOD LIFE YOUTH FOUNDATION Hasan Stephens NEIGHBORHOOD CHEF Betiea Bowens HOME HEADQUARTERS INC. Kerry Quaglia JOSE PEREZ, ATTORNEY Jose Perez, P.C. LAND BANK OF CENTRAL NY Katelyn Wright MARRONE LAW FIRM Anthony Marrone, Tom Harrison, Gina Fey INFLUENCE CNY Justin Rudgick MOTHER & SON WINE AND SPIRITS Ryedell Davis SAY YES TO EDUCATION Ahmeed Turner SMARIE PHOTOGRAPHY Shaneika Ford INFLUENCE CNY Justin Rudgwick NJ JONES PLUMBING Nadonte Jones RA-MENES CONSTRUCTION John Pertiller

CERTIFIED SPONORS

CERTIFIED PROGRAM SPONORS

Greenburg Trauig Law Firm

Central New York Community Foundation

V.I.P. Structures Inc.

Allyn Foundation

S.E.D.C.O.

Cooperative Federal Credit Union

MAY/JUNE 2020 CERTIFY CNY

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MONICA WILLIAMS IN NEW ROLE WITH ONONDAGA COUNTY

By Diana Clark Coronavirus has officially been in our county now since mid-March. The number of confirmed cases has risen, schools have closed, and many businesses have moved their workforce home or pivoted their service offerings.Now, as we begin a phased-in reopening, many of us are trying to manage the repercussions of this global pandemic while looking ahead at what could be a reality that is very different from the one we are used to. And while none of us really know the financial impact of this global pandemic, we can be sure that there are leaders in our community that have our back.

As expected during times of crisis, there are helpers and protectors all around us, people who are willing to put themselves on the line for the greater good. There are cashiers working in grocery stores, medical professionals showing up every day putting themselves at risk, and essential employees in industries across our county. There are also parents who are tackling teaching, teachers who are tackling technology, and kids trying their best. For MWBE’s, there’s Monica Williams.

Above, Monica Williams Below, Monica Williams and Amir Gethers, Photo credit: Monica Williams and Vernon Williams Jr., FB

Monica is the newly appointed Chief Diversity Officer for Onondaga County’s Office of Diversity & Inclusion. She was born and raised in Syracuse and is a graduate of Fowler High School. She had aspirations of going to college, but as she puts it,

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CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER 1.0 Photo credit: Vernon Williams Jr., FB

“I HAVE WALKED THE WALK, AND IT WAS TIME FOR US TO BE AT THE TABLE AND NO LONGER ON THE MENU.”

continued “Life happened and then it became all about my children.” As a single mom, Monica worked hard to raise four children. She worked for over thirty years at the Cottages of Garden Grove, formerly known as Rosewood, before leaving to take a job with her Union, 1199 SEIU as an Administrative Organizer.

There, Monica continued to represent her members to ensure that they were treated fairly.

Later, when the opportunity arose for her to run for Onondaga County Legislator, Monica stepped up. She had never been in politics before but she has what she calls “the gift to help others as I have walked the walk, and it was time for us to be at the table and no longer on the menu.” Monica served as County Legislator for twelve years, advocating for the 16th District in the City of Syracuse.

This February, County Executive Ryan McMahon tapped her to head the Onondaga County Office of Diversity & Inclusion. As the Chief Diversity Officer, Monica has been charged with recruiting minorities for employment within Onondaga County government. She also oversees the MWBE & Workforce Utilization Department, as well as the Human Rights Department, which includes the Onondaga County Justice Center. Monica, along with her staff members, has clear goals: make sure that the community knows of opportunities for employment and make sure that they are prepared with information to seek out those opportunities. Whether it’s knowing how to sign up to take a civil service exam or how to bid for a County job as a contractor, Monica wants to make sure people know where to go and how to prepare.

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continued

NEW CHIEF CHALLENGES MWBE'S TO MEET DEMAND & EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY Especially at this point in time, preparation is key. Since none of us really know how the Coronavirus will change the landscape of our work long-term, it is even more crucial now to be prepared. “Our folks are going to be hurting; they’re going to be looking for information just like us. They need to know, ‘Where do I go?’ ‘What do I do?’ ‘Where do I go to keep my business afloat?’ That’s what my office is for. I am working for them.”

Monica is helping the community understand how to build their skills to be ready for opportunities.“It’s not just finding opportunities to do business, but being prepared to do business, because business is definitely changing.” There will be opportunities for the minority community with the I-81 rebuild, among other projects. “One thing businesses are behind on is tech and getting them to set that up is important.

Another is construction: our community needs to be skilled at every level of construction. Making sure that we’re qualified is a huge piece.

People need to know what skills and what certifications are needed to qualify for these job opportunities that will come with the removal of I-81. Just because you are certified with the County, that might not be the only certification that you need. For example, if you are a construction company that may want to work on this project, there are NYS and Federal certifications that will be required to work on most of this project. Our role is to provide assistance to the MWBE’s to help them navigate through this process so that when the opportunity comes, they are prepared and ready.”

Her advice to MWBE’s or aspiring MWBE’s?

“Learn about new technology coming, and just know that we are here working on your behalf. Our goal will always be to make sure that we are providing information and other resources to you so that you can be successful. And lastly, to anyone that may want to start a business, chase your dreams, believe in yourself, always surround yourself with positive people, and know that we are here to help YOU.” For more information contact Monica at: monicawilliams@ongov.net 315-435-3521 www.ongov.net/diversity

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WILLIAMS' ADVICE TO MWBE'S

01

"Be prepared to do business, because business is definitely changing."

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“One thing businesses are behind on is tech and getting them to set that up is important."

03

Monica Williams has established a legacy that now includes her son, Vernon Williams Jr., newly elected Onondaga County Legislator. Williams Jr. replaces his mom who served in the same seat before accepting her new position.

"Our community needs to be skilled at every level of construction. Making sure that we’re qualified is a huge piece."

Photo credit: Vernon Williams Jr., FB

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CERTIFY CNY

UNCERTIFIED

Utilize This: Less than 5% of eligible firms in Central New York are certified with The State of New York as Minority or Minority Woman-Owned Business Enterprises.

Prepared by: Diversify-NY, LLC

MAY/JUNE 2020Â |Â CERTIFY CNY

CERTIFY CNY

50 The fastest growing

commodity codes in New York State are in the services industry.

Written by Rickey T. Brown

Since 2011, New York State has invested over ***$9 Billion dollars with Minority and Women certified firms through contracting opportunities. The fastest growing segment of spending with MWBE's is in the SERVICES industry, where more than 53% of this spending occurred. *2016 NYS Disparity Study calculated that MWBE utilization as prime

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CERTIFY CNY

INDUSTRY FOCUS

TRANSPORTATION & TECHNOLOGY WE FOCUS ON TWO INDUSTRIES: TRUCKING AND TECHNOLOGY: BOTH WILL BE SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTED BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC. HOW DO MWBE'S RESPOND? TWO TRANSPORTATION RELATED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESSES GIVE US THEIR PERSPECTIVE ON THE COVID CRISIS AND HOW ADAPTATION INTO NEW INDUSTRIES HAVE KEPT THEIR BUSINESSES AFLOAT. WE SPEAK WITH A MINORITY-OWNED MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER FOR INSIGHT ON HOW SHE ADAPTED TECHNOLOGY AS PART OF HER NEW BUSINESS PLAN.

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THESE MBE'S ARE EXPANDING INTO TRANSPORTATION

Meet NYS MBE's:Â John Pertiller of NYS certified RaMenes Home Repair and Inspections takes on trucking as his company expands.

Lotan Mitchell of NYS certified Safe Care, a Medical Supply transportation company.

CERTIFY CNY

SALT CITY GRIT John Pertillar of Ra-Menes Home Inspection and Repair Written by Diana Clark

Many business owners are driven by a desire to be their own boss, control their own schedule, and do work that is both fulfilling and can support their families. For John Pertillar, his family is at the center of what motivates him every day. John is the owner and founder of MWBE-Certified Ra-Menes Home Repair & Inspections LLC. He was inspired to start his business after realizing that he was using his skills to work hard for other people, when he could have been putting his skills to work for himself. John and his employees provide building construction and maintenance services such as preparing, painting, repairing, and providing maintenance for apartment buildings. He also owns and operates two dump trucks.

When John first started in the field, he got his foot in the door by working alongside others and learning from them. People walked him through how to do the work, and he eventually learned what it would take to form and grow his own company by watching his mentor. According to John, this has been the secret to his success people that gave him a chance to prove himself.

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CERTIFY CNY "My mentor is George Pearson, who has been in the construction business forever.

He sat me down, taught me how to bid on jobs, and invited me on projects. He reminds me of my dad because he always tried to teach me and I used to see how he would hustle.” Once John got his chance, he proved he can hustle too. He started his company five years ago, and two years later, he was MWBE certified. continued

He has worked on municipal construction jobs along Electronics Parkway in Liverpool and the Creekside bridges and walkways.He also does snow removal at the airport. An important part of John’s business is long-term contracts he has to work on apartments, one of which was recently renewed for another three years.That contract, in particular, he got due to his MWBE certification.

Like any business, John has faced challenges. Early on it was tough. He borrowed money from family to start the business, and there were times when money was tight. At other times, he struggled with taking on too much work. Eventually, John listened to the advice of his mentors and made some adjustments to bring balance to his business and his life.

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“DEFINITELY GET YOUR CERTIFICATION.....IT WILL OPEN UP AVENUES. MY PHONE AND EMAIL ARE CONSTANTLY GOING."

Salt City Grit He realized he could pay someone to do his bookkeeping and financial management, for example, so he could focus on providing services. Now, he has enough business for himself and two employees. “We have consistent work year-round, and I’m looking to hire more people.”

As he looks toward the future, John hopes to continue to grow his business. “That’s why I expanded to the dump truck and I hope to buy more equipment like backhoes. I want to be a full-blown construction company. The dump truck can definitely make a way for that to happen.” While the current slowdown due to Coronavirus will surely affect business, it has given John some muchneeded time to make sure his new truck is ready. In the meantime, John has built a strong foundation for his business and he’s focused on taking care of his employees.“They’re great guys, they’re highly skilled, and they’re banking on me.

I feel blessed. I’ve set goals and I’ve achieved them. That’s one thing I push on people, that’s why you have a team.”

At home, John’s team is his family, and one of the things he’s most proud of is being able to take care of them.“I stay on it and I make sure we’re taken care of. When I see my daughter’s face it’s all worth it.” His parents are among his main motivations too.“Hearing my dad say ‘I’m proud of you’… that’s what pushes me. I just don’t want to disappoint them. I want to show them that I’m here because of them.”

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SALT CITY GRIT CONTINUED

As John looks toward the future he

His advice to potential MWBEs?

hopes to bring his children on

“Definitely get your certification.

board with being business owners.

It’s just a few minutes of your time

One of his sons has taken a liking

and it will open up avenues. My

to flooring and he’s teaching

phone and email are constantly

him how to run a business. He

going. They’re constantly asking

plans to take his other son in his

me if I want work. One job can

trucks with him to teach him how

last a contractor five months of

to operate them. “I just want to

good money. That certification is a

teach my family how to be

plus all the way.”

bosses and work for themselves if

His advice during this global

that’s what they want to do. That’s

pandemic?

my biggest goal. Just to make

“Set goals, plan. Know your

them successful in whatever they

limitations but also push what

do.”

you’re really trying to do.

Everything is scary, but what happens when you’re successful?”

“That’s why I expanded to the dump truck and I hope to buy more equipment like backhoes. I want to be a full-blown construction company. The dump truck can definitely make a way for that to happen.”

NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE

SHANEIKA FORD

S'MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY S'Marie Photography 509 W. Fayette Street, Suite 118c Syracuse, NY (315) 497-7640 Email: smariephoto@outlook.com smariephotography.simplybook.me

The Marrone Law Firm PROTECTING EVERYTHING THAT MATTERS TO YOU Elder Law & Medicaid Planning Probate, Trust, & Estate Administrations Guardianship & Special Needs Estate Planning Watertown Office by Appointment: 220 Sterling Street Watertown, New York 13601 info@themarronelawfirm.com

506 East Washington Street Suite A Syracuse, New York 13202 (315) 728-9433 Fax: (315) 766-2719

My husband and I have been working with Anthony for 3 months. We live in Australia.

He has always been there for us. Anthony is caring and very thorough. We couldn't ask for any more from him.

– JoAnne, Review

★★★★★

DKCNY LLC & SAFE CARE MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION

Safe Care, LLC Meet Founder, Principal of Safe Care, LLC, Lotan Mitchell

His first hand account at overcoming Covid-19 and his mission to deliver medical supplies safely PHOTO CREDIT: LOTAN MITCHELL

Safe Care, LLC A NEW YORK STATE MBE CERTIFIED MEDICAL TRANSPORTION COMPANY

MEET OWNER

LOTAN MITCHELL:

COCKPIT SAFETY DISCRIMINATION IN MEDICINE COVID-19

SAFE CARE MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION

SAFETY FIRST Written By Diana Clark

“With transportation, we’ve got to make sure we’re being proactive and safe.

We’ve got to make sure we’re protecting drivers."

For many of us, the Corona virus has radically changed the way we live our lives, at least for the near future. For one MWBE it brought everything to a full stop. In midMarch, entrepreneur Lotan Mitchell, of DKCNY LLC and Safe Care Medical Transportation, began feeling Corona virus symptoms such as a fever and cough after coming back from a weekend trip downstate. He went to his doctor, who thought he might have pneumonia but did not initially order a chest x-ray. Lotan insisted,and his doctor eventually agreed.

The x-ray showed pneumonia. His doctor sent him home to rest, and on the way,he recommended he stop at the Syracuse Community Health Center to get a Corona virus test.

Over the next few days, Lotan’s symptoms worsened. His initial Corona virus test was negative, but he was forced to slow down and stay at home to rest. After a week of worsening symptoms, his family eventually intervened and insisted that he go to Upstate Medical Center. They called 911 and had him taken to the hospital. After a night of monitoring, fluids, and another Corona virus test at Upstate, Lotan was released to go home.

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SAFETY FIRST A FRONT LINE ESSENTIAL SERVICES PROVIDER

PHOTO CREDIT: LOTAN MITCHELL

continued He later found out that his second test came back positive. He

property management and rehab company.

spent time recovering in self-quarantine, and now Lotan is

He began getting contracts to cut grass,

feeling better and back to work. While Lotan was sick and

including one with the Land Bank. He also

recovering, his family and employees stepped up to help run

purchased his first rental property with his

the business. “I’m really proud of my staff, my younger brother

father. Being MWBE state certified has

especially. During this time, he has stepped up and ran the day

helped him grow his business. “It definitely

to day, and friends stepped up too.”

helps out a lot. I definitely recommend it.

When I try to get contracts, I mention that. I

Despite his health scare, Lotan’s entrepreneurial spirit has not

show them, we’re certified, we’re official.”

waned. In fact, it is a core part of who he is. The son of immigrants from Jamaica, Lotan watched his father work hard

Like many new entrepreneurs, when Lotan

all his life in real estate. A few years ago, he decided to start his

started DKCNY, LLC, he found that larger,

own work in property management. He created DKCNY LLC

established businesses already had a

MAY/JUNE 2020, VOLUME 1 ISSUE 2

SAFETY FIRST A FRONT LINE ESSENTIAL SERVICES PROVIDER

"DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS. HAVE GOOD PEOPLE AROUND YOU. WORK HARD.” continued major share of the market. In addition, it was challenging to get financing, but by partnering with family and colleagues, he was able to grow his business. Lotan also spent a lot of time educating himself, which he recommends anyone who is

“It’s important that we give tenants safe,

looking to start a business does. “Research,

healthy spaces to stay, and that we make

research, research. I love researching and I love

sure these properties are nice, insulated,

teaching and talking to people. Don’t be afraid to

have good windows, and are lead-free.” In

ask questions. Have good people around you.

2018, in partnership with his brother, Lotan

Work hard.”After numerous years in business,

branched out into the transportation

Lotan now owns several rental properties.

business and created Safe Care Medical Transportation. Safe Care Medical Transportation provides rides to and from medical appointments and transports medical supplies. Amidst this global pandemic, it has a crucial role to play in ensuring the community has adequate access to safe medical transportation and essential equipment. “With transportation, we’ve got to make sure we’re being proactive and safe. We’ve got to make sure we’re protecting drivers.

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"We don’t have to go to the banks. We could pool our money and do our own thing, buy our own equipment. Let me help you. Let’s help each other. Let’s get together and start some businesses.”

-LOTAN MITCHELL, PRINCIPAL DKCNY PROPERTY MANAGMENT "IN TIMES OF TRAGEDY THERE IS OPPORTUNITY.” continued It is important that people get their essentials and

Lotan sees opportunities for MWBE's in the

that they get to their appointments. We’re able to

midst of this crisis in facilities cleaning and

do that. We’re doing what we need to do. We’re

security. “Eventually, medical facilities will

taking care of families.” And since we’re all part of

open back up and they will need to be

a larger family here in Central New York, we can

cleaned. So let’s put people to work. Let’s get

help each other out too. “When you call Medicaid

together and create some cleaning

and request us, you’re supporting a family, you’re

companies. Let’s get the proper equipment

helping our drivers support their families. It is

and clean them well every night. Why can’t

important that we stick together and support each

we get together and create our own

other. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream, we’ve

companies to do that? Also, let’s get some

got to get to work. In times of tragedy there is

people together right now that can serve as

opportunity.”

security to ensure social distancing as businesses open back up.”

His advice for other MWBEs? “We need to stick together. Call me, text me, let’s get together, let’s brainstorm. We don’t have to go to the banks. We could pool our money and do our own thing, buy our own equipment. Let me help you. Let’s help each other. Let’s get together and start some businesses.”

PAGE 26

Advisors and resources for your real-world legal questions.

Sam NeJame SHAREHOLDER nejames@gtlaw.com ALBANY D +1 518.689.1424 T +1 518.689.1400

Team Member, Best Lawyers in America® "Top Listed – Government Relations," 2018 Sam NeJame heads the New York State Government Law & Policy Practice and represents clients in legislative, regulatory and procurement matters at various levels of government. CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, leaders of civic associations and important non-profit organizations regularly turn to him for his legal counsel and ability to assist their organizations to pursue their business goals through legislative means.

Sam has a particular focus representing the New York real estate industry, including the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), along with SL Green and Tishman Speyer, two of Manhattan’s largest commercial landlords. He also represents important corporate and civic organizations as well as a wide variety of other clients with a major presence in New York State.

BEFORE THEY LABLED MY BUSINESS ESSENTIAL, I WAS DOING ESSENTIAL THINGS FOR MY COMMUNTIY.

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“Kin Means Family�

By Diana Clark Diana Jaramillo has been passionate about architecture since she was a child. She has always loved drawing, building, and creating things. Diana was born and raised in Guayaquil, Ecuador until the age of sixteen when she came to this country with her mother, who was pursuing a doctoral degree.

After graduating from high school, she decided

She is now a Licensed Architect in New York

to pursue architecture as a career and enrolled

State, with a Masters in Sustainable

in classes at Onondaga Community College.

Construction Management from SUNY ESF and

She continued her studies while employed in

Bachelors in Architecture from Syracuse

the field at various design and construction

University. Diana had not initially thought of

firms. As a woman in a male-driven industry, it

owning her own architectural firm, but a few

was not always easy. But eventually, Diana

years ago, she welcomed her daughter into the

finished her degrees and began working her

world. That created a new need for her, the

way up at a local architecture firm.

need for work-life balance. Diana wanted flexibility to spend time with her daughter while still advancing her career.

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FOUNDER, KIN STUDIO

DIANA JARAMILLO, AIA

in addition to being an architect.” Also, breaking into a traditionally maledominated field has been challenging.

Diana has found support locally among other women of color in business and a small offshoot of women architects from the American Institute of Architects. “I’m proud that I started the business and that it has grown every year little by little.” Part of what has made Diana successful is that she has a lot of experience in various aspects of architectural work. “Unlike most architects that work in a single firm, I have a lot of experience working in what we call ‘the three legs of the stool’, I have worked for engineering and architectural firms, construction management companies, and as a client representative for local government.”

continued While she could have worked her way up at a firm with the hopes she would one-day make it to partner, she knew that it would be on someone else’s terms. So, in 2017, she founded her own architectural and design business, Kin Studio. Diana’s first year in business was challenging. Like many new businesses, she had to wear many hats. “I was doing just about everything myself. I have had drafters who do work for me from day one, and a team of engineers I partner with, but in terms of running the business itself, I had to do the bookkeeping, accounting, social media management, and business development,

“Kin means family, and we aim to treat all our clients and collaborators as such.”

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Kin Studio continued That has made her well-rounded as a professional to be able to understand the clients’ needs and build a a firm that is “human-centric” first. Another aspect of Diana’s success is that she has faced and overcome challenges. When she and her family immigrated to the United States, she had to learn English and adjust to American culture. Later, when she decided to go to OCC, she had to pay for it out of pocket.

Still, those experiences strengthened her and shaped her business philosophy. She is proud to be among the 1% of Latina architects in the U.S., and her experiences have driven her to put diversity and equity at the center of her business. “As a Latina business owner, Diana believes that diversity + sustainability = a successful project. Architecture is accessible to everyone, and Kin Studio breaks down the barriers of entry with realistic budgets, in-depth conversations, and a focused investment in

our relationships with our clients. We understand how people move through and engage with space.

We partner that with our sense of community, empathy, inclusion, and diversity to make sustainable design accessible for everyone.We seek to embrace and practice design that is diverse, equitable and sustainable.

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A(Kin) To Beautiful Design. continued In practice, what that means is that, we aim: to make sure we work with clients from different backgrounds, to make our prices accessible for large and small projects, and to build our designs with sustainability in mind. Kin means family, and we aim to treat all our clients and collaborators as such.�

Her advice for potential MWBEs? Definitely work with local resources available like the WISE Center and SSIC (South Side Innovation Center) because they have helped many businesses. Also, have a very good team early on, even if you’re small. Get a good financial institution, lawyer, etc. Have the structure in place from the beginning.

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A R C H I T E C U R A L

D E S I G N

Kin Studio "In practice, what that means is that, we aim: to make sure we work with clients from different backgrounds, to make our prices accessible for large and small projects, and to build our designs with sustainability in mind.Kin means family, and we aim to treat all our clients and collaborators as such.�

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COMMEMORATING 10 YEARS

2020 e h t e r a e W mers. a e r d

TECHNOLOGY

Vol. 1 Issue 2 May/June 2020

TRENDS

A NEW DIGITAL FRONTIER Did Covid-19 level the playing field for minority businesses and households?

We make a case for why the Covid-19 Pandemic helped to bridge a gaping digital divide by providing millions of households access to technology and high speed internet. With the birth of new businesses resulting from job loss or under employment, minority lead households are more poised than ever to get to close the digital divide.

THE COVID EFFECT

20% OUR DESKTOP READERSHIP HAS INCREASED 20%

OUR PUBLICATION HAS REACHED SIX CONTINENTS AND MORE THAN 13 COUNTRIES.

50%

MWBE'S TAKEÂ GIANT LEAP TO BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE.

COVID-19 MAY HAVE CHANGED THE WAY WE DO BUSINESS FOREVER. THAT'S GOOD NEWS FOR MANY MWBE'S. FOLLOW US AS WE HIGHLIGHT HOW THESE COMPANIES WILL HELP BRIDGE THE DIGTIAL DIVIDE FOR MINORITIES ACROSS THE NATION.

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LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR YASCHIA KINSEY

Q & A with an LMHC Yaschia Kinsey shares advice for reducing stress during this challenging time

PHOTO CREDIT: MICHELE MCCLENDONNINALEM SEEIL PHOTOGRAPHY

MAY/JUNE 2020 | CERTIFY CNY

YASCHIA KINSEY, LMHC, IS TELEHEALTH PROVIDER AND LEADING ADVOCATE ON MENTAL HEALTH Q&A WITH YASCHIA KINSEY, LMHC

Covered in this month's issue: YASCHIA KINSEY IS A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR WHOSE WORK, LIKE MANY PEOPLE’S, HAS CHANGED DUE TO THE COVID-19 GLOBAL PANDEMIC. WE SPOKE WITH HER ABOUT HOW THE PANDEMIC HAS AFFECTED HER PRACTICE AND SHE OFFERED SOME TIPS FOR MANAGING STRESS DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME.

BY DIANA CLARK What is your mission?

My mission is to help adults reduce stress. I want to make sure people have healthy coping skills to reduce stress and anxiety,and create work-life balance. My practice is a confidential, non –judgmental space.

How has the current global pandemic affected you as a woman and as a minority-owned business? How have you adjusted?

Since the pandemic began, I have had to move most of my therapy online and I have build out my private practice as a PAGE 38

Additional Resources: Vera House Domestic Violence Support Line: 315-468-3260 NYS Domestic Violence Support: 1-800-942-6906 (available 24/7) or text 844-997-2121 NYS Child Abuse Helpline: 1800-244-3736 National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800273-talk Remember that school social workers and counselors are available for children and adolescents. They can do drive-by visits to see how students are doing. And you can do

"LIMIT YOUR TIME ON MEDIA OUTLETS,TAKE BREAKS FROM IT. SECONDLY,TALK ABOUT YOUR FEELINGS." continued Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have worked for a while at a group private practice

wellness checks more often with your own children.

and at an out-patient agency, but the

VeraHouse and other local agencies are also still providing

pandemic has forced us all to be creative

support services for domestic violence and other problems.

when it comes to doing business.

Yaschia Kinsey, LMHC

continued In my field, that has meant that we’re all doing therapy online. It has been a little overwhelming for me adjusting to that because it was a big transition. I still work part-time in a group therapy office where we are able to provide care while following social distancing protocols, but teletherapy has grown and the good thing is that most insurance companies are paying 100% of the costs of telehealth right now.

In terms of convenience, teletherapy has been great because you and your clients can do it from home. As a woman having to wear many hats, it has been challenging. It has forced us to multi-task and be present in the moment with our families, but also be more self-aware of our own emotional needs as well as Photo credit: Cover story photo, Yaschia Kinsey, FB

PAGE 39

"Be conscientious of how much pressure you’re putting on yourself to perform."

CONTINUED our children’s emotional needs. I have learned to take better care of myself during this time because everything feels more intense. As far as the business is concerned, I have been using my own capital to build that up so far. For example, I’m having someone build my website for me and I purchased an additional phone for my private practice.

What do you think people are struggling with the most right now?

Fear and work-life balance. It is especially hard for essential workers trying to figure out, ‘How do I do my job, take care of my family and take care of myself?’ I have also seen an increase in clients needing therapy for things such as substance abuse. This is why selfcare is so important. Put yourself first. Take care of yourself first, whether that means adjusting your work schedule if you can or taking a hot shower or bath, sitting and having a cup of tea, or exercising. Make sure you put yourself first because if you burn out, your job will replace you and your family will have to make a way. I always say, self first, then others.

What advice would you give others for maintaining work/life balance under the current circumstances?

One of the key things right now is people need to take pressure off of themselves. We are dealing with a global crisis. It affects our focus and productivity. Be conscientious of how much pressure you’re putting on yourself to perform. Take a minute to sit back and reflect, relax, exercise, go for a walk, journal, eat healthy.

PAGE 40

"Put yourself first."

"Even for me, things feel heavy;everything feels like a weight, so self-care is about re-energizing and reconnecting with you." continued

"We are dealing with a global crisis."

Even for me, things feel heavy; everything feels like a weight, so self-care is about re-energizing and reconnecting with you.

What advice would you give others about selfcare during the current circumstances?

First of all, limit your time on media outlets,take breaks from it. Secondly, talk about your feelings. It’s ok to feel fear. Because with Corona virus we don’t know what’s going to happen next, it’s important that you allow yourself to be still to mediate and to reflect on how this is affecting you emotionally, instead of being in survival mode and just doing the next thing.

Where can people go who need immediate mental health care? What resources are available in Syracuse that people might not know about?

If someone has an immediate mental health crisis, they can call the mobile crisis unit by dialing 211. I have a solo private practice and people can reach me at 315-985-2008. I offer free 15-minute consultations over the phone to see if it would be a good fit. That part of my practice is private pay. I also work at Psychological Healthcare, which you can reach at 315-422-0300. There, we accept all insurance and managed Medicaid. Also, Heliohealth offers excellent play therapy and regular therapy for children and adolescents 3 years of age and older. They take intakes over the phone and can be reached at 315-471-1564.

PAGE 41

INFLUENCE CNY PERFORMANCE. COLLABORATION. VERSATILITY. COMMUNICATION.

PROVIDING EXPERTISE TO MUNICIPALITIES, BUSINESSES AND NOTFOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS. JUSTIN RUDGICK | PRINCIPAL JRUDGICK@INFLUENCECNY.COM

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R.E.A.L. LIFE

R.E.A.L. Success Entrepreneurship has been known to be linked to improved academic performance among youth because it connects R.E.A.L. life experiences and opportunities for revenue with education that youth are learning now. In partnership with El Java Quadir (Entrepreneurship Professor at Whitman School, Syracuse University) and the Whitman School of Business and Management, Good Life is developing an urban focused Entrepreneurship Curriculum Training.

CERTIFY CNY

APPLYING THE RACIAL EQUITY LENS THE RACIAL AND ECONOMIC DISPARITIES IN HEALTH CARE UNMASKED.

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

FAUCI SAID IT'S NOT THE CASE THAT AFRICAN AMERICANS WERE GETTING INFECTED MORE OFTEN BUT RATHER THAT 10% THE PREVALENCE OF "UNDERLYING MEDICAL CONDITIONS — (SEE BELOW).

SOURCE:HTTPS://WWW.CNN.COM/INTERACTIVE/2020/HEALTH/

“COVID IS JUST UNMASKING

CORONAVIRUS-US-MAPS-AND-CASES/

THE DEEP DISINVESTMENT IN OUR COMMUNITIES, THE HISTORICAL INJUSTICES AND

70%

THE IMPACT OF RESIDENTIAL SEGREGATION,” DR. CAMARA JONES, A FAMILY PHYSICIAN, EPIDEMIOLOGIST AND VISITING FELLOW AT

MILWAUKEE, CHICAGO AND LOUSIANA HAVE RECORDED COVID DEATHS BY RACE.

HARVARD UNIVERSITY

OF COVID DEATHS REPORTED. 70% ARE BLACK.

INCREASED RISK OF DEATH DIABETES, THE HYPERTENSION, THE OBESITY, THE ASTHMA" — HAVE LED TO HIGHER INTENSIVE-CARE ADMISSIONS AND DEATH RATES FOR BLACKS. 100 75 50 25

*89,932

0

NY

LA

CHI

MIL

Blacks

Latino

Hispanic

Asian

DEATHS AT TIME

UNDERLYING CONDITIONS

OF PUBLICATION

RISK FACTORS FOR MINORITIES

OBESITY

SOURCE: PROPUBLICA.ORG

DIABETES

ASTHMA

CERTIFY CNY

'Cause though they claim every mans created equal, what's us native people, find it harder for nights to sleep through?

AZ, THE VISUALIZER Certify CNY is an online publication dedicated to identifying, creating and promoting opportunities to advance minority and women-owned business enterprises in the five county region identified as Central New York. We serve the following counties: Onondaga, Oneida, Oswego, Cayuga, and Madison Counties. To register for our online New York State MWBE certification, visit eventbrite @https://www.eventbrite.com/e/91400793233 certifycny@gmail.com