Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 103

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ISSUE 103 VOLUME 18

July 23, 2020

SERVING THE CARIBBEAN AND HISPANIC COMMUNITIES!

Obituary: John Lewis, US Civil Rights Champion

BY BARRETT HOLMES PITNER CONTRIBUTOR, BBC NEWS Vote Absentee from Anywhere in the World ....30

J

ohn Lewis forged his legacy as a lifetime champion for civil rights and racial equality during the struggles of the 1960s as he preached a message of non-violence alongside Dr Martin Luther King Jr. It was in March 1965 that Lewis, aged only 25, stood with other civil rights leaders as they led peaceful protesters across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. Their planned march would take them to Montgomery, the state capitol, to demand equal voting rights.

"Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won. Choose confrontation wisely, but when it is your time don't be afraid to stand up, speak up, and speak out against injustice."

Jamaica’s Tourism Minister: No Plans to Lock Gate ....2

continued on page 4

The Jail-to-Deportation Pipeline Turns Deadly for Immigrants in the Pandemic

BY EMMA WINGER

Knowledge is Power when you use it!

Get a FREE Consultation!

Ask the Lawyer:

Call 855-768-8845 We Must Respect the Rights & Dignity of Older People ....19

A

nother man has died in immigration detention from COVID-19. His tragic and avoidable death marks the deadly end to a jail-to-deportation pipeline that disproportionately targets Black and Brown people.

On July 13, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a press

continued on page 13

Brian Figeroux, Esq., Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association Inside: EQUITY SMART REALTY 4-page Special ....15-18

Clarke Denounces Trump’s Order on Census Count ....12

Caribbean Star: Vincentian Christal Oliver ....25

Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccinations? ....11

Secrets for Attracting Your Dream Guy ....23

CARIBBEAN ROUNDUP Caribbean Consulates Anguilla 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0200 Antigua & Barbuda 305 East 47th Street, Suite 6A New York, N.Y. 10020 Tel: 212-541-4117 The Bahamas 231 East 46th Street New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-421-6420 Barbados 820 Second Avenue, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-551-4325 Belize 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1911 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-593-0999 Dominica 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400H New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-949-0853 Dominican Republic 1500 Broadway, Suite 410 New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-599-8478 Grenada 685 Third Avenue, Suite 1101 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-599-0301 Guyana 308 West 38th Street New York, N.Y. 10018 Tel: 212-947-5119 Haiti 815 Second Avenue,6th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-697-9767 Jamaica 767 Third Avenue, 2nd Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-935-9000 Martinique 444 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-838-6887 Montserrat 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0200 Panama 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 20th Floor New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-840-2450 St. Kitts & Nevis 414 East 75th Street, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10021 Tel: 212-535-5521 St. Lucia 800 Second Avenue, 9th Floor New York, N.Y. 10007 Tel: 212-697-9360

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Jamaica: No Plans to Lock Gate On US Tourists

K

INGSTON, Jamaica: (July 20): In the wake of an increase in the COVID-19 pandemic in US destinations from which the Caribbean gets its visitors, there is a lockdown order from the Bahamas banning travelers from the United States, but tourism minister Ed Bartlett says Jamaica has no such plans.

In fact, Minister Bartlett says a ban on travelers from the United States in a bid to contain the spread of COVID-19 to the island would deliver a death blow to Jamaica’s hospitality industry.

On Sunday the Bahamas announced that it was ordering an immediate lockout of travelers from America as coronavirus cases there surge to world-record levels, with nearly 80,000 new infections daily.

Florida, one of the major source markets for Jamaica’s travel sector, reported

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett

another 10,347 new cases and 90-deaths on Monday. This brings the total number of cases in Florida to 360-thousand and just over five thousand deaths. Jamaica had already flagged Florida, along with Texas, New York, and Arizona, as COVID-19 hotspots.

Bartlett believes that Jamaica will have to weigh carefully the implications of a total ban on the US.

Guyana: Foreign Minister Slams OAS

G

EORGETOWN, Guyana (July 21): Guyana’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Karen Cummings has told the Organization of American States (OAS) that her country’s laws and court decisions would “alone” be used to determine the outcome of the general and regional elections.

In apparent reference to calls by the OAS for President David Granger to concede defeat and peacefully hand over power to the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the Foreign Minister said the “independent” Guyana Elections Commission is expected to declare results based on Guyana’s constitution, Court rulings and the advice of the Chief Elections Officer “which must be consistent with the laws of Guyana.”

“Chair the laws of Guyana and the electoral remedies alone will determine the results of the General and Regional

Guyana’s Foreign Minister Dr. Karen Cummings

Elections of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana,” she said in the letter in which she accepted the invitation to participate in Tuesday’s meeting of the OAS Permanent Council.

The Foreign Minister slammed as “premature” the decision by the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, the European Union, and other members of the international community to intervene, to impact the outcome of the elections, while the Supreme Court is still to rule, and the Election Commission still to make a declaration of the results.

Dr. Cummings told Ambassador

St. Vincent & The Grenadines 801 Second Avenue, 21st Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-687-4981

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Cordero, we all agree that international monitors are valued during an election but “dictating a desired outcome that departs from the legal mechanisms in place to resolve electoral disputes is a disservice to the good people of Guyana, and a vile and sinister attempt to sully the will of the people.”

She indicated that the results of her country’s general and regional elections will be declared only using valid votes and in keeping with the laws of her country.l —Written by Denis Chabrol, Demerara Waves. Read full story at www.cawnyc.com

Saint Lucia Captures ‘World’s Best’ Awards

St. Maarten 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1807 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 800-786-2278

Trinidad & Tobago 125 Maiden Lane, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10038 Tel: 212-682-7272

“It would die! We would have to close the industry,” Bartlett told The Gleaner on Sunday evening.

“Right now, all of the visitors who come to Jamaica in this first phase are from the US. This week will be the first flight coming in from the UK. If we should put a ban on the US, the effect of it would be to shut down the industry.”l —Wiredja Newsdesk

F

resh off the heels of the reintroduction of commercial aviation services to the island, Saint Lucia has been awarded a title of prestigious honour by world renowned national U.S. travel magazine, Travel + Leisure.

Destination Saint Lucia now ranks at number17 in the “Top 25 Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas”.

Annually Travel + Leisure’s discerning readers demonstrate their commitment to seeking out meaningful travel experi-

ences of the highest caliber.

In 2020, hundreds of thousands of readers voted in the magazine’s annual survey, sharing their thoughts on favorite hotels, islands, tour operators, and more.

The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards is a leading barometer of the places and companies that satisfy some of the most passionate and discerning travelers.

Three Saint Lucian accommodation properties were also named in the category of“Top 25 Resort Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas”.

Jade Mountain ranked at number 9, Cap Maison number 12, and Anse Chastanet at number 21.l

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3

THOUGHTS

New CMS Rule Will Worsen COVID-19's Impact on Minority Communities

TEAM My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. —Hosea 4:6 Publisher I.Q. INC. Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief

Pearl Phillip

BY GARY A. PUCKREIN

Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq.

T

he COVID-19 pandemic is ravaging the nation and taking a disproportionate toll on African American and Hispanic communities.

Yet the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services just moved ahead with a rule that will make it more difficult for vulnerable Americans to access the medicines they need.

The new CMS rule increases prescription costs for patients by enabling insurers to ignore cost savings — available through manufacturer coupons — when calculating out-of-pocket spending at the pharmacy.

It's imperative to remove barriers to treatment and adherence that prevent patients and their families from living healthily. This rule achieves the opposite.

Nationwide, the COVID-19 infection rate in predominantly African American counties is more than three times that in predominantly white counties. And residents of predominantly African American counties are six times more likely to die from COVID-19 than those of predominantly white counties.

Many Americans have reduced their risk of COVID-19 infection by working from home. While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that's an option for 30 percent of white Americans, the same is true for only 20 percent of African Americans and 16 percent of Hispanic Americans. As a result, members of these demographics face more frequent exposure to the virus.

Underlying health factors also exacerbate risk for these communities. A significant cause of the higher COVID-19 mortality rates can be attributed to higher rates of chronic conditions. Some 47 percent of African American men suffer from heart disease, compared to 37 percent of white men. Meanwhile, Hispanic Americans are 50 percent more likely to succumb to complications from diabetes, compared to white Americans, and to be challenged by poorly controlled blood pressure and obesity.

Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Anvaar Sabirov Interns Sharif Tyler Casey Tong

African Americans and Hispanic Americans also have lower incomes, on average, than white Americans. The median net worth of white households in the United States was nearly ten times that of African American households and eight times that of Hispanic American households in 2016. Too often, high outof-pocket costs prevent adherence to their necessary prescription drug regimens.

Last year, nearly one in three Americans skipped doses of their medicines because of cost concerns. Such nonadherence is particularly prevalent among those with chronic conditions. All told, nonadherence causes 10 percent of hospitalizations and results in 125,000 deaths each year.

At a moment when members of communities of color are worried about their well-being and personal finances, the CMS' actions will further compromise the physical and financial health of these individuals and their families.

Prescription drugs can be expensive, even for those with insurance. To reduce a patient's burden, drug manufacturers offer coupons to offset costs at the pharmacy. All told, coupons saved patients $13 billion in 2018 alone.

Today, most insurers count the value of coupons toward enrollees' deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. If, for

instance, a patient needs a specialty drug that's sold by her local pharmacy for $220 — but has qualified for a $200 coupon from the manufacturer — she'll only pay $20. But the full $220 received by the pharmacy would count toward her out-of-pocket spending.

The new rule will allow insurers to exclude the value of these coupons when calculating patients' out-of-pocket spending. This will cause pharmacy spending to skyrocket for patients, thus driving many to skip the medicines they need.

COVID-19 is taking a toll, especially in minority communities. These patients need medications to manage their conditions and stay healthy, especially now.

This new rule takes us backwards.l

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

Scan this code to schedule a FREE Initial Consultation

Gary A. Puckrein is president and chief executive officer of the National Minority Quality Forum.

Ask the Lawyer on Facebook and get more at www.cawnyc.com

Figeroux & Associates

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4

CIVIL RIGHTS ICON: JOHN LEWIS

John Lewis/ continued from page 1 As they crossed the bridge, armed Alabama police officers on horseback carrying tear gas, whips and bully clubs attacked them. At least 40 protesters required treatment, and Lewis suffered a fractured skull.

Media outlets from across America captured the brutal attack on film, calling it Bloody Sunday. The event became a pivotal moment in the battle for civil rights for African-Americans, as Americans outside the South could now see the abuse inflicted upon the black community under "Jim Crow" segregation laws.

Five months later, with Lewis among the collection of civil rights leaders at the White House, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965 into law.

Early Life Lewis was born on 21 February, 1940, during the time of Jim Crow laws, to a family of sharecroppers in the small Southern town of Troy, Alabama.

He was one of 10 children, and from an early age he expressed an obvious love of learning. Lewis would spend hours upon hours at his local library, and it was here where he could find AfricanAmerican publications that would embolden his commitment to the struggle for civil rights.

"I loved going to the library," said Lewis. "It was the first time I ever saw

Credit: Steve Schaefer

black newspapers and magazines like JET, Ebony, the Baltimore AfroAmerican, or the Chicago Defender. And I'll never forget my librarian."

Education As a young black man growing up in the American South, the battle for racial equality actively shaped his life long before he became an activist. In 1954, when Lewis was only 13, the Supreme Court, in a unanimous decision, ruled in favour of Brown vs Board of Education, striking down more than 50 years of legalised racial segregation.

Alabama, along with many other states, fought the decision and delayed implementation of school desegregation.

Lewis' school remained segregated despite Brown, and Alabama's commitment to segregation forced him to leave the state to attend college.

Lewis aspired to attend the nearby, allwhite Troy State University and study for

the ministry, but the school's segregationist stance meant it would never accept him.

In 1957, Lewis finally decided on attending the predominantly AfricanAmerican institution, the American Baptist Theological Seminary in Nashville, Tennessee, because it allowed students to work for the school in lieu of tuition. Yet during his first year in Nashville, as the fight against segregation continued, Lewis attempted to transfer to Troy State.

He sent in an application, but never heard back from the school. It was common during this time for segregationist schools to ignore the applications of African-Americans instead of formally accepting or denying them.

Meeting King After growing frustrated by Troy State's lack of response, Lewis wrote a letter to King describing his dilemma. King

responded by sending Lewis a round-trip bus ticket to Montgomery so they could meet.

This meeting would commence Lewis' relationship with King and his lifelong leadership in the struggle for civil rights.

Lewis eventually decided to end his dream of entering Troy State University after consulting King. Lewis' parents had also feared their son would be killed, and their land taken away, if he continued to challenge Jim Crow laws. Instead, Lewis returned to Nashville, graduated from the seminary, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in religion and philosophy.

Throughout college, Lewis remained an important figure in the civil rights movement, organising sit-ins at segregated lunch counters. In 1961 he became one of the 13 original Freedom Riders, seeking to end the practice of segregation on public transport.

At the time, several southern states had laws prohibiting African-Americans and white riders from sitting next to each other on public transportation or in bus terminals. The original 13 — seven white and six black —attempted to ride from Washington to New Orleans. In Virginia and North Carolina, the Freedom Riders evaded conflict, but all of that changed as they moved further south.

Attacked In May 1961, Lewis was attacked by a mob of white men at a bus station in Rock Hill, South Carolina, for attemptcontinued on page 5

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5

CIVIL RIGHTS ICON: JOHN LEWIS John Lewis/ continued from page 4 ing to enter a waiting room marked "Whites". Lewis was beaten and bloodied on that day, but his commitment remained undeterred.

In the Deep South, Lewis and other Freedom Riders were beaten by angry mobs, arrested, and jailed for sitting or standing next to white people on buses and in bus terminals. Some of the original riders left due to the violence and terror, but Lewis continued all the way to New Orleans.

In 2009, Lewis was reunited with his Rock Hill attacker, only this time instead of a clenched fist he was shown an open hand and a request for forgiveness. Elwin Wilson, a former Klansman who attacked Lewis, said that the election of President Barack Obama had spurred him to admitting his hateful acts and to ask for forgiveness from Lewis.

"I said if just one person comes forward and gets the hate out of their heart, it's all worth it," said Wilson. "I never dreamed that a man that I had assaulted, that he would ever be a Congressman and that I'd ever see him again.

"He was very, very sincere, and I think it takes a lot of raw courage to be willing to come forward the way he did," said Lewis. "I think it will lead to a great deal of healing."

The “Big Six” In 1963, when aged only 23, Lewis became the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), making him one of the "Big Six" civil rights leaders of the era. These leaders would organise the 1963 March on Washington, where King would give his historic "I Have A Dream" speech.

Lewis, at an age when most people had just begun their professional careers, also stood atop the Lincoln Memorial and gave a rousing oration about the importance of fighting for civil rights.

"We are tired," Lewis said in his speech.

"We are tired of being beaten by policemen. We are tired of seeing our people locked up in jail over and over again. And then you holler, 'Be patient'. How long can we be patient? We want our freedom and we want it now."

In March 1965, Lewis, King and other civil rights leaders organized the march from Selma to Montgomery that became a tipping point in the battle for civil rights and the eventual passage of the 1965 Voting Rights amendment.

Throughout his early civil rights career, King remained Lewis' mentor, the man Lewis said "was like a big brother to me". "[He] inspired me to get in trouble — what I call good trouble, necessary trouble," Lewis later told the Washington Post. "And I've been getting in trouble ever since."

Assassination Lewis was in Indianapolis in April 1968, campaigning with Democratic presidential candidate Bobby Kennedy, when Kennedy announced that King had been assassinated.

"It was such an unbelievable feeling," Lewis said. "I cried. I just felt like something had died in all of us when we heard that Dr Martin Luther King Jr had been

Then-President Barack Obama hugs Rep. John Lewis during a 2015 event at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., commemorating Bloody Sunday.

Rep. John Lewis attends a ceremony in September on Capitol Hill to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first recorded arrival of enslaved African people in America. assassinated. But I said to myself, well, we still have Bobby. And a short time later, he was gone."

After leaving the SNCC in 1966, Lewis remained active in civil rights in Atlanta, working on voter registration programmes and on helping people rise out of poverty.

When Jimmy Carter won the successful presidential bid, Lewis took a position with the federal domestic volunteer agency and in 1981, after Carter lost the White House to Republican Ronald Reagan, Lewis returned to Atlanta and was elected to the City Council.

Five years later he ran successfully for Georgia's fifth congressional district, and held his seat until his passing.

New Generation and the Fight for Civil Rights To help acquaint a new generation of Americans with the fight for civil rights in the 1960s, Lewis co-created the three-part graphic novel March, a vivid memoir of his lifetime of civil rights advocacy that went on to be a bestseller and award-winner.

As a young activist, Lewis had himself been inspired by the 1958 comic book Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story. Through his own graphic novel, he hoped to inspire another generation of civil rights leaders.

"We are involved now in a serious revolution," it says in March: Book Two, published in 2015. "This nation is still a place of cheap political leaders who build their careers on immoral compromises and ally themselves with open forms of political, economic and social exploitation.

"What political leader here can stand up and say, 'My party is the party of principles?'"

In 2014, the film Selma depicted the events of Lewis' historic march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, and was released to wide acclaim. It further cemented Lewis' legacy as a civil rights icon.

He recreated the journey across the bridge in March 2015, but this time with Barack Obama, America's first black president.

"It is a rare honour in this life to follow one of your heroes, and John Lewis is one of my heroes," Obama said at the 50th anniversary celebration.

Last Breath During Donald Trump's presidency, Lewis fiercely opposed the policies and statements made by the president and his fellow Republicans. Lewis boycotted Trump's inauguration, saying he did not believe he was a "legitimate president" because of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

He went on to repeat concerns about the direction he felt the US was taking in 2017, after the white supremacist rally and attack in Charlottesville, Virginia.

"I am very troubled," he said. "I cannot

believe in my heart what I am witnessing today in America. I wanted to think not only as an elected official, but as a human being that we had made more progress. It troubles me a great deal."

Despite this Lewis remained an undeterred and committed champion for the fight for civil rights and racial equality until his last breath. l "When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something" - John Lewis.

This is your city.

Do you know your zone?

Visit NYC.gov/knowyourzone or call 311 to find out what to do to prepare for hurricanes in NYC. #knowyourzone

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3:03:05 PM

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CARIBBEAN SPECIAL REPORT

Re-thinking CARICOM Development Model after COVID-19

BY RONALD SANDERS

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overnments around the world, including in Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries, have emerged as the principal players in the health and economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The private sector, for the most part, has taken a back seat with many companies turning inwards and concentrating on safeguarding their own survival, rather than playing a broader role.

This occurrence could foreshadow a new model for economic development in the future, particularly for small states.

Governments had to embrace extraordinary roles to provide economic relief, including for private-sector workers. In richer nations, governments have provided what is called ‘furloughs’. Under this scheme, governments in the United States and some countries in Europe have extended unemployment benefits to these private-sector workers who, though they still technically retain their jobs, receive no pay from their employers.

In CARICOM countries, where governments lack the resources of richer countries to furlough private-sector workers, governments have intervened with Central Banks to make money available to commercial banks at low-interest rates

so that these banks can, in turn, extend repayment periods for mortgages at reduced rates of interest. Additionally, they have provided food hampers for the needy.

Governments have also become the leaders in investing in health services, enlarging hospital and other medical facilities – a task which will continue into the future. One of the influential factors in the active involvement by governments in the health sector is the need for ‘health sovereignty’ – the ability to cope with the health needs of citizens at home, rather than sending them abroad.

For example, Antigua and Barbuda’s minister of state in the finance ministry, Lennox Weston, pointed out recently, that whereas, as part of its medical benefits scheme, the government sent its citizens abroad for treatment not available at home, the epoch of COVID-19, which closed borders and severely restricted air transportation, underscores the importance of ‘health independence’. In the future, governments will have to establish and sustain medical facilities for conditions formerly treated abroad.

The retreat of the private sector from economic activity left many governments in small countries solely with the burden of keeping their economies from total collapse. Not only did employment in the pri-

vate sector decline but so too did their payment of taxes. Indeed, some private companies looked to governments for economic relief.

If the effects of COVID-19 continue to disrupt supply chains and sales in industries such as tourism and manufacturing, more private sector companies will either fail financially or seek financial aid from governments. All of this points to a larger role for the state in the economy in the years ahead, following decades in which Western nations, that control the global economy, dismissed the value of state intervention. They preached that the private sector is the driving force behind sustainable economic growth and a key source for creating wealth and jobs – a theory that collapsed in the pandemic.

There is no question that a viable private sector has a role now, and will continue to have a role, in recovering economies as nations come to grips with living in a COVID-19 world. However, going forward, governments might have to re-evaluate the relationship of the public sector and the private sector in economic growth and development. The shortcomings and vulnerabilities of too great a reliance on the private sector, as the engine of growth, have been revealed by the effects of the pandemic. There is now, perhaps, a case to regulate companies more robustly

to make them more resilient to future shocks and downturns.

It is alarming that many companies operated on small margins of retained capital with little provisions for emergencies. A review of business models that rely on lengthy tax concessions and endless duty-free waivers from governments, may also now become appropriate.

One thing is certain, if these private sector vulnerabilities and shortcomings are not addressed and reformed, they are doomed to be repeated, pushing governments to become the chief burden-bearer, even as their own revenues from taxes and duties dwindle.

This consideration applies to the governments of all CARICOM countries. As members of an integration organisation, bound by treaty and committed to a single market, they should adopt a mutually supportive stance in constructing a new model for their relations with the private sector, particularly foreign investors. One of their weaknesses is their own competitive approach to the private sector, whereby they vie to secure investment based on who gives away the most.

In the wake of the destructive effects of COVID-19 on the economies of CARICOM states, existing and unresolved issues have flared-up. A case in point is the imbroglio over LIAT 1974 Ltd, the financially troubled airline which, despite all the struggles it has faced, has served the Caribbean safely for 64 years.

Like all other airlines throughout the world, COVID-19 pointed a dagger at LIAT’s heart. In the US and elsewhere, airlines survived the effects of the pandemic, only with government help. For example, the US government is reported to have pumped $25 billion into six big airlines, including Delta, American and JetBlue, along with four smaller carriers, to pay workers and keep them employed until September.

The principal government shareholders in LIAT, except the government of Antigua and Barbuda, faced with their own daunting financial constraints, chose to liquidate the company. This action has created friction in the regional group and predictions of its demise. But, history has shown that, despite such predictions in the past, CARICOM has proved to be politically resilient with all parties recognizing that there are more benefits in retaining the organization than abandoning it.

Solving the problem of LIAT and regional transport, like the issue of re-evaluating the role of governments in relation to the market, requires a re-shaping of CARICOM based not on national rivalry but on regional collaboration so that every nation benefits from the fruits of integration. The equation will never be equitable given the differences in populations and resources, but at least it should be fair.l Sir Ronald Sanders is the Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and the Organisation of American States

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Live in the basement?

Yes, the census is for you.

Your answers cannot be shared with your landlord, ICE, or any law enforcement agency.

You don’t need a paper form.

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8

IN THE NEWS

Federal Judge Denies Release of Migrant Families in ICE Detention

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ashington D.C.: On July 22, US District Court Judge Boasberg denied a motion for Preliminary Injunction in OMG v. Wolf, which sought expedited release of migrant parents and children from ICE Family Detention Centers. Here is a statement by Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, President & CEO of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS): This is a devastating loss for vulnerable asylum-seeking families and for all Americans who value dignity and decency. Family detention centers are structured in a way that renders adherence to CDC guidance unfeasible – communal toilets, sinks, showers and food service make social distancing impossible and place at-risk detainees in grave danger.

Make no mistake – this ruling will needlessly endanger the lives and well-being of migrant families.

It is tragic that ICE has not been legally compelled to do right by these families and our core values as Americans. The agency has always had the option to exercise its discretion to release families in detention on parole, even before the pandemic struck. Unfortunately, without

ICE Agents Banned From Making Arrests In New York’s Courthouses

Editorial credit: Jana Shea / Shutterstock.com

judicial oversight, ICE will likely be emboldened to separate families – it has already offered the unthinkable binary choice to migrant parents of either releasing their precious children on their own, or remaining together in the COVID-19 tinderboxes that these detention centers are.

The court’s failure to recognize the harm inflicted contradicts what Americans across the political spectrum believe – detention should not be a death sentence, especially for vulnerable families that have every legal right to seek protection in our country.

We hope this decision sparks a larger conversation as to why we choose to lock families away in the first place, instead of embracing humane alternatives like

Family Case Management programs. If the stated goal of detention is to ensure compliance with immigration requirements, we should consider communitybased programs that have proved to produce high compliance rates at a fraction of the cost to the taxpayer.

Instead of denying families their dignity, what if we offered assurance of stable housing, referrals for pro bono legal services, access to a case manager, transportation to immigration hearings and enrollment in school for kids? How we treat the most vulnerable among us is a direct reflection of our nation’s values – alternatives to detention are vastly more aligned with our core principles of liberty and justice for all."l

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EEditorial credit: chrisdorney / Shutterstock.com

A

lbany, NY: The Senate Democratic Majority today passed legislation to ban Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) agents from making arrests in New York courthouses. The bill S.425A, sponsored by Senator Brad Hoylman, protects New Yorkers from civil arrests while going to court and conducting or returning from a court proceeding.

“No New Yorker should fear participating in the justice system, regardless of their documentation,” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said.

“The Protect Our Courts Act will give undocumented New Yorkers the peace of mind and sense of safety they deserve while visiting a court, and I commend Senator Hoylman for sponsoring this legislation. By advancing this good bill, the Senate Majority is continuing our efforts to support immigrant communities and ensure New York is a more welcoming place for new Americans.”

Bill Sponsor, Senator Brad Hoylman, said, “Donald Trump’s heartless immigration policy is a cruel perversion of justice. We cannot allow our courthouses to become a hunting ground for federal agents attempting to round up immigrant New Yorkers. Already, ICE arrests in or around courthouses in New York have spiked by 1,700% since Donald Trump took office. The Protect Our Courts Act will get ICE out of our courthouses and make our justice system more just. It will allow all New Yorkers to attend judicial proceedings, whether as a litigant, witness or family member. I’m grateful to Senate Majority Leader Andrea StewartCousins and Assembly sponsor Michaelle Solages for working with us to pass this crucial legislation, and thankful to the immigrant New Yorkers who made a clear, compelling moral case for why New York must pass this bill.”

This legislation, S.425A, will: Ban ICE agents from arresting people attending or conducting court business in New York State. The purpose of this legislation is to ensure continued access to the State courts by all people in New York without fear of arrest or deportation.l

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9

FAMILY MATTERS

Expressing Love in Blended Families Listen for the pain in their conversations. Validate their loss. What is beneath the anger they show—possibly fear and grief? Likely they are scared and lonely.

Probably all family members are to some degree. This is where a father needs to show strong, calm, compassionate leadership by encouraging this process to take place so everyone can grow and move forward into healthy relationships.

Recognizing and talking about this process is important in dealing with it effectively.

BY RICK JOHNSON, FATHERHOOD.GOV

O

ne of the most challenging things in life may be trying to successfully blend together two separate families with different expectations, experiences, and backgrounds. And being a stepparent may be the hardest thing anyone attempts in their life (possibly the most unappreciated anyway). Here are five tips from experienced parents on how to express love within a blended family.

Accept everyone for who they are Lower your expectations of trying to look like the “perfect family.” Do not force kids to immediately love their new siblings or stepparent. Bonding and learning to love each other is a gradual process that takes time. Accept everyone for who they are, not who you want them to be.

Treat everyone with respect Do not show favoritism. It’s difficult sometimes to bond with children that you haven’t fathered. But showing favoritism to “your” children is one sure way to create resentment and anger in the family.

Also, as a new stepfather it is probably counterproductive to try and discipline your new wife’s children, at least before you have earned their respect (which

might take some time). That’s not to say you allow yourself to be walked on, but it does mean you tread carefully with wisdom and discretion.

As a stepparent be intentional in getting to know your stepchild Let them set the pace of the relationship.

But be proactive in finding opportunities to talk with them or do things together

that they enjoy. Try to be natural about it as forcing this process is not only awkward but actually serves to push the child away from you (no one wants to be close to someone who is desperate). Be patient—remember all good things take time.

Allow everyone to grieve the loss of their last family whether through death or divorce.

Build new memories and history Have fun. Laugh often. Create new traditions. People bond together through the experiences they have together. Good memories and experiences create healthy bonding. Healthy homes contain a lot of laughter. Be pro-active about laying a foundation based on fun and laughter, not stress and anger. As a good friend of mine once wisely said, “I judge the health of my family by the amount of laughter I hear in our home.”l

Rick Johnson is a sought-after speaker and bestselling author of 11 books on parenting and marriage. He is also the founder and director of Better Dads Ministries.

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MONEY MATTERS

10

Utility Company Calling?

Don’t Fall for It.

Avoiding a Cryptocurrency Scam

BY JIM KREIDLER, CONSUMER EDUCATION SPECIALIST, FTC

E

very day, millions of people who have lost their jobs are making difficult choices about how to pay their bills. As the Coronavirus continues to spread, scammers are taking advantage of people’s heightened economic anxiety. Their latest ploy is posing as representatives from utility companies to dupe people out of their cash and personal information by convincing them their utilities will be shut off if they don’t pay.

If you get a call from someone claiming to be your utility company, here are some things you can do: •Thank the caller for the information.

Then firmly tell them you will contact the utility company directly using the number on your bill or on the company’s website.

•Even if the caller insists you have a past due bill or your services will be shut off, never give banking information over the phone unless you place the call to a number you know is legitimate.

•Utility companies don’t demand banking information by email or phone. And they won’t force you to pay by phone as

BY CRISTINA MIRANDA CONSUMER EDUCATION SPECIALIST, FTC

O your only option.

•If the caller demands payment by gift card, cash reload card, wiring money or cryptocurrency, it is a scam. Legitimate companies don’t demand payment by gift cards (like iTunes or Amazon), cash reload cards (like MoneyPak, Vanilla, or Reloadit), or cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin).

•Tell your friends and loved ones about the scam so they can protect themselves. If you got this scam call, others in your community probably did to. We know when people hear about scams, they’re much more likely to avoid them.

Tell the FTC. Your reports help the FTC and our law enforcement partners stop scammers.l

n July 15, some high-profile people had their Twitter accounts hacked by scammers who sent out fake tweets asking followers to send money using Bitcoin – a type of cryptocurrency or digital money.

Cryptocurrency scams are now a popular way for scammers to trick people into sending money. And they pop up in many ways. Most crypto scams can appear as emails trying to blackmail someone, online chain referral schemes, or bogus investment and business opportunities. But here’s what they all have in common – and what they have in common with yesterday’s Twitter hacks: A scammer wants you to send money, or make a payment, with Bitcoin or another type of cryptocurrency.

Once you do, your money is gone, and there’s generally no way to get it back.

So if you see a tweet (or a text, email, or other message on social media) that tells you to pay with Bitcoin, you know that’s a scam. Other signs that something’s a scam? They might guarantee that you’ll make money (those guarantees are false); promise that you’ll double your money quickly (again, that’s always a fake promise); or say you’ll get free money in dollars or cryptocurrency (free money? Nope, not ever).

If you spot a cryptocurrency scam, report it immediately to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint. l

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continued on page 11 The Law Offices of Figeroux & Associates, 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY. Visit www.311bankruptcy.com VISIT WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR THE LATEST CARIBBEAN NEWS, IMMIGRATION UPDATES, VIEWPOINTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK @CAWNYC!

11

DIASPORA CONCERNS

Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccinations?

Here’s What States and Employers Can Legally Require

BY DEBBIE KAMINER THE CONVERSATION

A

safe and effective vaccine could end the coronavirus pandemic, but for it to succeed, enough people will have to get inoculated.

Recent polls suggest that the U.S. is far from ready. Most surveys have found that only about two-thirds of adults say they would get the vaccine.

While that might protect most people who get vaccinated, it may be insufficient to reach herd immunity and stop the virus’s spread.

As a law professor who has written about the legal questions around vaccination laws, employment discrimination and religious exemptions, I see four possible approaches that governments and employers can take to ensure enough Americans are immunized against COVID-19.

Which ones are legal might surprise you.

Can governments require vaccinations?

The most intrusive policy would involve government mandating vaccination for all Americans, with the exception of those with a medical exemption.

People are often surprised to learn that states would likely have the legal right to enforce such a rule.

In the 1905 landmark case Jacobson v.

Massachusetts, the United States Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of a state criminal law that

required all adult inhabitants of Cambridge to get a smallpox vaccine or be fined. The Supreme Court explained that an individual’s liberty rights under the U.S. Constitution are not absolute and the mandatory vaccination law was necessary to promote public health and safety.

While Jacobson v. Massachusetts is over 100 years old, courts continue to rely on the reasoning of the case. State governments still occasionally enact broad compulsory vaccination policies.

In 2019, in the midst of a measles out-

break, New York City mandated that anyone over six months of age who lived, went to school or worked in several ZIP codes within the city had to be vaccinated against measles or be subject to a fine.

Requiring people to be vaccinated against the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus could similarly be justified by government’s need to promote public health and safety. In late May, the New York State Bar Association’s Health Law Section even recommended mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for all Americans.

Yet in the United States today, where even mask mandates are controversial, it is unlikely that many states will enact a compulsory vaccination policy for everyone. Additionally, there is a risk that heavy-handed public health tactics can backfire and escalate tensions, increase mistrust of government and unintentionally increase the influence of the anti-vaccination movement. continued on page 12

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

6 ft

Stay home if sick

Wear a face covering

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

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

Keep physical distance

Keep your hands clean

Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.

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

If you are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, you should still stay home as much as possible. Those at increased risk are adults age 50 or older (adults 65 and older are at the highest risk), and those who have other health conditions.

Get tested: There are COVID-19 testing sites in all five boroughs.

To find a site, visit nyc.gov/covidtest or call 311.

Bill de Blasio Mayor

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

Oxiris Barbot, MD Commissioner

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DIASPORA CONCERNS Clarke Denounces Trump’s Order On the 2020 Census Count

12

Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccinations?/ continued from page 11 One of the most controversial issues surrounding compulsory vaccination laws is the religious or philosophical exemption, which some states have eliminated in recent years.

In the aftermath of the recent measles outbreaks, both New York and California eliminated these exemptions from vaccination laws covering school children.

Congresswoman Clarke

C

ongresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement in light of Trump’s attempt to restrict the immigrant community from being counted in the 2020 Census: “In a desperate attempt to further stack the electoral deck in his favor in blatant disregard of our Constitutional history, 45 has made yet another naked attempt to suppress the response rate for the Census. The Constitution clearly states that the enumeration process must include ‘the whole Number of Free Persons’ meaning ALL people within the country must be counted. Instead of following the dictates of our foundational legal document, this Administration has instead chosen to rely upon the judgement of an impeached President who has already been credibly accused of violating the law in order to secure his hold on power.”

“The executive order in question holds no real legal weight as it completely flies in the face of centuries of practice and jurisprudence mandating that all people be counted. Unless they plan on arguing that the undocumented fall into the category of ‘all other Persons’ worthy of a 3/5th count – a similarly reprehensible and callously racist position in line with their past actions – they do not have a leg to stand on in any court of law. We should see this powerless piece of paper for what it is: a campaign stunt aimed directly at his base of deplorables clinging to the last vestiges of white supremacy in America.”l

What if only some people must get vaccinated?

A less intrusive tactic would be for state governments to require COVID-19 vaccinations for only certain segments of the population.

All 50 states currently have some type of compulsory vaccination laws covering K-12 schoolchildren, and many states have compulsory vaccination laws covering college students. These laws typically allow for some type of medical exemption. States may also have mandatory vaccination laws covering employees in nursing homes and health care facilities.

If states required this type of targeted mandatory COVID-19 vaccination, they could cover those most at risk and those most likely to be in contact with others in ways that could stem the virus’s spread.

Another approach would be legislation that requires proof of vaccination to obtain a passport, use public transportation or go to a gym.

One of the most controversial issues surrounding compulsory vaccination laws is the religious or philosophical exemption, which some states have eliminated in recent years. In the aftermath of the recent measles outbreaks, both New York and California eliminated these exemptions from vaccination laws covering school children. Courts have explained that while compulsory vaccination laws may burden religious practices, religious exemptions are not constitutionally required under the First Amendment’s free exercise clause since mandatory vaccination does not single

out religion and is not motivated by a desire to interfere with religion.

What can employers require?

Private employers have significant flexibility for requiring vaccination. Yet few businesses outside of health care facilities have done so, partly out of fear that employees would consider these policies to be unacceptable invasions of their personal lives.

There is a risk in a unionized workplace that a mandatory vaccination policy could be struck down if it violates a collective bargaining agreement.

However, unlike government-mandated policies, these would not be subject to constitutional restrictions.

Employers may also be concerned that if policies do not include significant religious exemptions, workers could sue, claiming religious discrimination.

However, it is unlikely that federal law would require employers to accommodate employees requesting a religious exemption to a COVID-19 vaccine.

Under Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, the federal law prohibiting religious discrimination in the workplace, employers are not required to accommodate religious employees if doing so involves more than a de minimis, or minimal cost.

Certainly, in the midst of one of the worst public health and financial crises in recent history, there is a significant cost to having an unimmunized workforce.

Setting an example Beyond mandates and laws, employers,

politicians and government agencies have other ways to encourage people to get vaccinated. In particular, the messages they send matter. That was evident in the public controversy over maskwearing after President Donald Trump and other prominent Republicans ridiculed the precaution.

In New York, Gov. Andrew Cuomo mandated wearing face masks in public, but he also successfully convinced New Yorkers to wear them by emphasizing that doing so showed respect for others, particularly essential workers, health care providers and high-risk individuals.

Government can similarly encourage Americans to get vaccinated through education campaigns led by trusted community members, such as religious leaders or celebrities. During the New York measles outbreak, the Orthodox Jewish Nurses Association was at the forefront of educating the Orthodox Jewish community on the safety and efficacy of vaccination.

Government and employers also could make vaccines free and available at convenient locations.

As the U.S. government fast-tracks the development of potential vaccines, it’s important to remember that a COVID-19 vaccine will stop the virus only if enough people get vaccinated. Now is the time for governments and employers to develop policies to ensure it succeeds.l

Debbie Kaminer is a Law Professor, Baruch College, CUNY

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IMMIGRATION

13 The United States is starting to come to grips with the consequences of a criminal justice system that disproportionally harms people of color. At the same time, we must examine how the deportation machine furthers those harms for Black and Brown immigrants.

Jail-Deportation-Pipeline/ continued from page 1 release announcing that Onoval PerezMontufa had died from COVID-19. The release says nothing about who this man was, why he came to the United States from Mexico, or what grieving family he leaves behind.

Instead, ICE describes him as an “aggravated felon”—a degrading distortion of what’s known as an “aggravated felony.” This legal term is a sweeping, harsh ground for deportation that includes many convictions that are neither aggravated nor felonies.

When announcing Perez-Montufa’s death, ICE goes to great lengths to dehumanize him, as if to justify his death in civil immigration detention.

This is cruel. But it is also predictable.

With his journey from arrest, to prison, to immigration detention, Perez-Montufa was following a pre-ordained path.

Congress laid the groundwork with draconian immigration laws, which make deportation the disproportionate penalty for a wide range of criminal offenses.

These laws were racist in origin and are racist in implementation.

ICE keeps this pipeline running, with its never-ending efforts to use the criminal justice system to round-up targets— even people never convicted of a crime.

Due to programs like Secure Communities, the “Criminal Alien” Program, and the 287(g) program, an arrest by police is enough to sweep a per-

son into ICE’s dragnet.

The consequences for immigrant communities of color and Black immigrant communities in particular—long the victims of over-policing—have been devastating.

Despite the absence of evidence that Black immigrants commit crime at greater rates than other immigrants, Black immigrants (who comprise 7% of the noncitizen population) make up over 20% of immigrants facing deportation before an immigration judge on criminal grounds.

Now a deadly pandemic has been added to this toxic mix.

Since the pandemic began, advocates have been pushing ICE to protect individuals in immigration detention. When that has failed, immigrants and advocates have turned to the courts to order ICE to release people, particularly those who are medically vulnerable.

ICE detention centers have become hotspots for COVID-19. But the agency hasn’t been transparent about how it’s handling the pandemic. Advocates have asked the courts to order ICE to release information on how it plans to identify and treat people who get infected in its care.

But these efforts did not save PerezMontufa. ICE transferred him from a federal medical center to Glades County Detention Center in Florida. This ICE facility currently has 46 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Two weeks after his transfer, he tested positive for the virus. He died on Monday.

Glades is the subject of a lawsuit seeking the release of individuals in ICE custody due to the risks posed by the coronavirus. ICE claims that it could not release Perez-Montufa because he was subject to “mandatory detention.” But

this is untrue. ICE has repeatedly released individuals supposedly subject to mandatory detention because those people were vulnerable to COVID-19.

Tragically, Perez-Montufa was not the only man to die in ICE custody this week. Luis Sanchez-Perez died from a bacterial infection while in ICE custody in Louisiana. He was shuttled to immigration detention to deport him to Guatemala after an arrest for driving under the influence. Perez-Montufa was the 16th person to die in ICE detention this fiscal year (beginning October 1, 2019).

The United States is starting to come to grips with the consequences of a criminal justice system that disproportionally harms people of color. At the same time, we must examine how the deportation machine furthers those harms for Black and Brown immigrants.l

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14

EDUCATION

4 things Students Should Know about their Health Insurance and COVID-19 Before Heading to College this Fall

BY PAUL SHAFER,THE CONVERSATION

A

s colleges and universities decide whether or not to reopen their campuses this fall, much of the discussion has focused on the ethics behind the decision and the associated health risks of in-person instruction.

As a researcher who studies health insurance policy, I see two important gaps in this discussion: 1) Who should pay the cost of treating the inevitable COVID-19 cases that will occur; and 2) What do college students need to know about their coverage?

Here are four things I think every college student – and those who care about them – should know about health insurance coverage when it comes to COVID-19.

1. Weigh coverage options If you’re covered under a student health insurance plan through your school, it may be worth considering whether that is still your best option. The Affordable Care Act allows, but does not require, dependents to stay on their parents’ plan until age

26. Many students already take advantage of this, but if you don’t, it may be worth a second look, particularly if your parents are insured and you are staying home this fall. The catch is that your parents’ premiums might increase if they are switching from single or spousal coverage to family coverage.

Students can also qualify for a special enrollment period on HealthCare.gov – or their state-specific health insurance marketplace – if their county or state of residence is changing. This is likely a good option only if students earn some income.

That’s because the financial subsidies for marketplace coverage kick in only if you are making at least 100% of the federal poverty level, which is US$12,760 a year

for a single person in the lower 48 states.

If you don’t earn any income or work only part-time, health insurance coverage through Medicaid may be an option, depending on where you live. If you live in a state that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, or attend a college or university in a state that did, you have a better chance of being eligible.

Childless adults can qualify for free or nearly free coverage in states that expanded Medicaid with incomes up to 133% of the federal poverty level, which is $16,971 in the lower 48.

2. Ask how COVID-19 is covered All universities planning to reopen their residential campus are developing detailed plans with protocols that include measures like social distancing, daily symptom reporting and regular testing. In these plans, a positive test will likely result in isolation, retesting, contact tracing and other measures to protect the student and their campus. However, treating complications of COVID-19 is a different story. Students will certainly be connected with treatment, but these plans don’t often address who pays for it.

Several major health insurance companies have committed to waiving out-ofpocket costs for COVID-19 treatment, but some already have plans to end this benefit. There is certainly a question of how this will work out given the potential length of the pandemic and cost of treatment for severe cases. Many of these national insurers are the companies behind student health insurance plans, so these policies may ultimately affect students, but not always.

At Boston University, where I teach health policy, our Student Health Insurance Plan through Aetna is covering COVID-19 treatment just like any other illness, subject to the usual deductibles, coinsurance and copayments. Given that COVID-19 treatment can cost into the tens of thousands of dollars or more for cases requiring hospitalization, a student could be responsible for their full annual out-of-pocket maximum of either $3,000 or $5,500 when those bills come due. The risk of severe complications is thought to be low among young adults, but hospitalization rates are on the rise among all age groups.

3. Use telehealth Students may have other health care needs to be addressed during this pandemic but may not be able to or feel comfortable going to their student health or neighbor-

hood clinic in person. Telehealth has been around for years, but the onset of COVID19 has seen a dramatic shift in some health systems of moving nonemergency care online. Routine visits for chronic disease management and mental health care, a particular concern right now, are obviously critical to good health.

Many insurers and student health plans have waived copayments for telehealth visits. But some are already looking to scale back this benefit as states continue to reopen. Things don’t always work as planned. Patients still get billed sometimes for “free” telehealth, so doublecheck before you pay any bills.

4. Out-of-network care For students who decide to stay home this fall, or have to because their college or university is offering courses online only, an important consideration is whether and how generously their student health insurance plan covers out-of-network care. A student may be in a different city, state or even country from their school, which means that the network associated with the student plan might not be accessible.

Certainly, telehealth services can help work around this problem, but students may have care needs, unrelated to COVID-19, that require in-person care.

Out-of-network coverage generally comes with a higher deductible and greater financial responsibility for the patient. For example, at the University of North Carolina, their StudentBlue plan comes with a $4,000 out-of-pocket maximum for in-network care, which doubles to $8,000 for out-of-network care.

These higher costs can make a big difference in access to care. Poorer families will be at greater risk of delayed or foregone care that can lead to negative health consequences down the road.

Also, research has shown that when people don’t understand their health insurance plans – as many college students may not due to their limited experience with it – it can lead people to avoid care due to worries about cost. College students who want to learn more about the basics of health insurance can check out this BestColleges guide.

Students and their parents really need to understand their health insurance coverage heading into the fall semester, whether or not they go back to campus. Being informed is the best defense during this pandemic. Minimizing risks is critical, but it’s also important to understand what a positive test could mean financially.

Students should reach out to their student health office and health insurance company to get the facts about their coverage and what their financial responsibility would be if they were to get COVID-19 and need treatment.l Paul Shafer is an Assistant Professor, Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University

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No. 27

How the Real Estate Business Will Change After COVID-19

BY TED HIGHLAND KAPLAN REAL ESTATE EDUCATION

A

cademic futurists are projecting that the COVID-19 pandemic is going to shape the future of everyday life, including the way real estate business is conducted, the behavior of real estate consumers, and how real estate education takes place.

The National Bureau of Economic Research issued a paper in April 2020 which researched how pandemics affect economic activity in the medium- to long-term. Studying 15 major pandemics dating back to the 14th century, they concluded that an aftereffect of pandemics is a reduction in the size of the labor force. The surviving labor market sees a rise in real wages. This labor scarcity may result in less investment and demand for

capital. They concluded that these factors result in a reduction in the natural rate of interest, which they estimate will reach its lowest point about 20 years later. We can conclude from this that the coronavirus may, generally, result in stimulating home sales.

This article seeks to identify what specific changes are going to take place in the

real estate business and what their impact will be on real estate agents, consumers, and educators.

Responses to Pandemics Historically, people have responded to pandemics by following certain patterns of behavior. The first step in this pattern involves going through an adjustment

stage. Most people in the United States are going through that adjustment stage now. The adjustment stage is where people discover their old habits changing and therefore develop new habits to replace the old ones. Disruption and isolation are very effective in resulting in life evaluation and changing one’s behavior.

These changes are not always negative. When times are normal, we get lulled into routines, develop habits, and invest in relationships that we believe are important. When we live through a crisis, we realize some of continued on page 3

Getting Ready to Sell

BY MARY CAMPBELL

Y

our house doesn’t need to be in perfect condition to sell it for a good price. There are steps you can take, however, that will net a good return on investment. There are still other changes that, even if they’re not immediately noticeable, could result in a lower offer price because the buyers will have to pay for those repairs themselves.

Repair what needs fixing Hire a home inspector to find major issues like the roof, foundation, plumbing and wiring. How old is your water heater? Buyers will ask. Has mold ever been a problem? Make sure it’s taken care of. Many of these issues will have to be disclosed in the offer.

Look for smaller repairs as well.

Realtor.com suggests looking for wood rot around door frames, window ledges and garage doors; water stains on the ceiling or near doors or windows; leaks under the sink; bulges under carpet or discolored hardwood; visible cracks in the walls; doors that don’t shut right; broken handles; loose doorknobs or trim; non-functioning gas fireplaces; and anything else that

is broken.

Paint the walls to neutral tones One of the best parts of owning your own home is getting to paint a bedroom maroon or bright yellow or allow your children to paint handprints on their walls. However, when you decide to sell, it’s time to paint over those colors. Go for neutral colors like tan or other light colors — hues that won’t be the first thing potential buyers notice or what they remember and that allow buyers to think about what colors they would like the walls to be.

room cabinets, new carpets or hardwood floors, replacing windows, adding ceiling fans or upgrading the light fixtures or myriad other updates.

Figure out how much you want to spend and what updates will give you the best return. A study by the National Association of Realtors found new hardwood floors give you a 100 percent return on investment, new insulation can get you a 95 percent ROI and a new roof will more than pay for itself.

Ready for a renovation or an upgrade?

Even if your house is in good condition, you may want to get work done to make the house more appealing and increase its value. This could be new kitchen or bath-

Get Help Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance.

Schedule an appointment today. Call

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2

EQUITY SMART REALTY

Choosing the Right Real Estate Brokerage

BY KAPLAN REAL ESTATE EDUCATION

T

he first step to success in pursuing a real estate career is making a good business decision. Part of becoming a licensed real estate salesperson is selecting a broker to sponsor you. Although it is true that you’re technically working for yourself, a real estate agent cannot act as a real estate agent independently; they must work on behalf of a real estate broker. This decision has the potential to affect the direction of your career in real estate, either positively or negatively.

Most real estate companies are constantly recruiting salespeople. However, there are big differences among companies in structure, operation, and philosophy. Your goal is to find the real estate office that you

like and will ultimately be the right fit for you.

If you haven’t selected your career specialty or real estate brokerage, there are a number of factors to consider.

Researching, weighing pros and cons, and planning ahead are essential in getting your new real estate career off to a fast and productive start. Take the following advice to find the brokerage that's right for you and get ready to send them a killer resume.

Scout the Area Where You Want to Work as a Real Estate Salesperson •Check the local area as if you were an outof-town buyer •Stop by local real estate brokerages and review printed materials •Talk to active agents from different brokerages to gauge their opinions of the local

offices •Drive by the offices. Is it a convenient location, ample parking, attractive exterior?

Narrow Down the Search of Real Estate Brokerages •What is the company’s reputation locally and/or nationally as a real estate brokerage?

•Is the company well established in the local area?

•Does the brokerage specialize in a certain area of real estate?

•How is the quality and quantity of ads in the local papers and on Internet sites?

•Do they effectively promote properties, the office, and their agents?

•How many real estate agents work out of the office?

•Do they serve a large market? Is it in the

areas you would like to work?

Interview with the Real Estate Broker or Owner •What type of agent are they looking for?

What are their goals?

•As a real estate salesperson, would you be working as an independent contractor or as an employee?

•Is there a training plan in place for new agents?

•Are they members of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?

•Is there clerical or administrative support for the agents? Or will you need to find your own assistant if you do well?

•What is the commission split and the benefit package?

•What would your obligations be to the brokerage if you were employed?

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3

REAL ESTATE TRENDS Real Estate After COVID-19/ continued from page 1 as they once were. A re-evaluation stage takes place. According to researchers, 61 percent of surveyed respondents indicated they have reduced their spending on luxury goods during this pandemic, and 21 percent indicated that they anticipated continuing to reduce their luxury spending when the pandemic ends. This pattern of thinking might manifest in reduced sales of luxury residences, as well. Maybe owning a big, expensive home will just not seem as important.

Real Estate as an “Essential Service” Most state governors have classified the transfer and sale of real estate as an essential service. As such, real estate agents are continuing to help consumers with their real estate transactions during this time.

Real estate agents and brokers must comply with local guidelines in terms of how to accomplish this objective. Licensees, including individuals and business entities, may use their discretion as to whether or not they wish to continue to operate their businesses with the parameters required, some of which are described below.

occupied by renters are prohibited. In other areas, showings are limited to one person or family group, scheduled in advance with the consent of the property owner. Virtual or remote open houses are being required by local regulations.

Specialized virtual tour software is available to agents and has become affordable, such as iStaging and Tourwizard.

While readily available and affordable, virtual tours are not without their downsides. As more purchasers buy a property sight unseen, some of them may come back to the agent saying they did not get what they bargained for. As these types of practices become common, contractual language to protect the buyer, seller, and agent will become necessary to protect all parties.

Open Houses and Showings In most states, physical or in-person open houses are either discouraged or not permitted. In a few states, in-person showings of single and multi-family homes that are

Disease Confidentiality The current pandemic does not invalidate agency law requirements for real estate licensees, especially the duty of confidentiality. If a real estate agent has come into contact with a client and later finds out that

the client has contracted COVID-19, the agent cannot notify any other parties that came into contact with the client without the client’s consent. If they cannot obtain consent, they may want to notify the party without identifying the specific client or the property.

Remote Work According to the U.S. Census, approximately 5 percent of all workers, prior to the pandemic, worked completely from home. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has published data indicating that around 25 percent of workers worked from home at least some of the time. After the outbreak of the COVID-19, Google sent out a memo on March 11, 2020, to all of its tens of thousands of North American employees recommending that they work remotely from home if their positions allowed for it. Joining Google was Microsoft, Apple, Twitter, and other employers.

The issue is not that employees mind working from home for a short time, particularly if they do not see a reduction in

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pay along with the request. It is that there is something unique that people get from interacting with others that does not fare as well when individuals are subjected to prolonged social isolation. Numerous studies have found that social interaction is critical to mental health and business productivity.

On the one hand, it is easier to talk on the phone while Googling a topic, making a list of tasks, and not having to be establishing eye contact with a person you are talking to. However, texting “LOL” is not the same experience as being with someone and laughing out loud with them. It will be interesting to see how many people, given a chance to work at home, end up preferring it to the traditional social workplace.

What we can anticipate is that at least a portion of those confined to working at home right now will desire to continue working remotely after COVID-19. The demand for homes with separate working spaces is bound to increase. The real estate agents who know how to identify combination home/workspaces will find a profitable niche in the future.

Entertainment and Education in the Time of COVID-19 Who would have thought that the day would come when our favorite late-night hosts would be performing for us from their homes with no bands, no witty banter, or glamorous sets? Yet, that is the state of television entertainment in the age of the pandemic. Will we continue to see this version of the late-night variety show once the pandemic is over? Probably not. We will probably return to what we were familiar with in terms of entertainment.

Something that no one would ever believe would happen, however, pre-virus, was that all the schools in the United States, from elementary schools to universities to private real estate schools would stop having live classes with students.

Overnight, the only education taking place in the country was distance education.

Continuing to educate students of all kinds is especially important, and live streaming video is the key to accomplishing it. While some of these changes are temporary, others will become permanent.

Providing interactive experiences will be essential to the long-term success of live streaming video educational experiences.

Passive viewing experience is not enough.

Even in the classroom, the historic model of teaching (i.e. “the sage on the stage”) is fading away. No student wants to be lectured. In today’s world, they want to be engaged.

Flexible software solutions can provide true interactivity so that users can communicate as naturally as if they were in the same room. Platform features can help keep participants focused by switching audio and video on and off until the instructor and the students are ready to engage. There are even capabilities where small groups of students can break out to separate electronic rooms to discuss specific topics. Embedded video clips can deliver the participants to the larger world outside of the immediate classroom to make the learning experience limited only by the imagination of the content creators.

Once students experience true interactivity and real-time live streaming video with

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4

HOME OWNERSHIP

Five Skills Expected from All Home Inspectors 4. Are you capable of explaining what you know to a customer?

Successful home inspectors need to be able to communicate their findings, both verbally and in a high-quality physical document. Often, it’s not what you say, but how you say it. Great communication is one of the major keys to controlling liability and providing customer satisfaction.

BY DOUG HASTINGS, ACI KAPLAN REAL ESTATE EDUCATION

W

hen thinking about becoming a home inspector, you should consider the industry expectations. The days of the contractor walk-thru inspection are over. In all communities, large and small, the expectation of the home inspector’s ability is higher than ever. When you hang a sign calling yourself a home inspector, you better be ready to meet a high standard of performance.

Initially, real estate salespeople were reluctant to embrace the home inspector.

As the industry grew, agents began to accept the home inspector, but demanded professionals. In today’s real estate industry, agents are okay with the home inspector finding issues during the transaction, as long as they are actual problems. Home inspectors essentially need to perform at the same level as a licensed contractor.

They need to be experts in all facets of the home, from foundations to roof shingles, from furnaces to electrical panels, from wet basements to mold. In other words, today’s home inspector must be highly trained in order to succeed. If you want to become a home inspector, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you know all the systems and components of a home?

As an instructor of 26 years, I have never met a student who, at the end of their inspection training, wasn’t completely overwhelmed and exhausted. Most students, regardless of their background, are shocked by the amount of technical knowledge they still needed to learn.

2. Do you know how to identify all the potential problems of each system and component?

A home inspector not only needs to know each and every part of the building, but they need a unique skill set that allows

them to identify each problem within these systems and components. It’s one thing to know what a furnace is, but another thing to be able to tell someone why it’s unsafe and needs to be replaced.

3. Do you know old homes as well as new homes?

Old homes perform differently than new homes. A competent inspector must be able to recognize that. For example, moisture intrusion in an old home is bad and needs to be stopped, but moisture intrusion in a new home, with much lower drying potential, could be devastating and should be a high concern for decay and mold.

5. Do you have any designations that support your ability to inspect a home?

Unless your customer is a repeat customer, your client will likely not know you. As customers shop for a qualified inspector, they will be looking for industry designations that make you stand out from your competition.

If you answered “no” to any of these questions, you may not be prepared to become a home inspector yet.n Doug Hastings, ACI is a Lead Instructor at Kaplan Real Estate Education Free Consultation Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance. Schedule an appointment today. call us at 855-7688845.

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ELDER CARE

19

"Our Response to COVID-19 Must Respect the Rights and Dignity of Older People"

BY ANTÓNIO GUTERRES

T

he COVID-19 pandemic is causing untold fear and suffering for older people across the world.

The fatality rate for older people is higher overall, and for those over 80, it is five times the global average.

Beyond its immediate health impact, the pandemic is putting older people at greater risk of poverty, discrimination, and isolation. It is likely to have a particularly devastating impact on older people in developing countries.

As an older person myself, with responsibility for an even older mother, I am deeply concerned about the pandemic on a personal level, and about its effects on our communities and societies.

Today we are launching a policy brief that provides analysis and recommendations to address these challenges. Our response to COVID-19 must respect the rights and dignity of older people.

Let’s not treat older people as invisible or powerless.

There are four main messages.

First, no person, young or old, is expendable. Older people have the same rights to life and health as everyone else.

Difficult decisions around life-saving medical care must respect the human rights and dignity of all.

Second, while physical distancing is crucial, let’s not forget we are one community and we all belong to each other. We need improved social support and smarter efforts to reach older people through digital technology.

That is vital to older people who may face great suffering and isolation under lockdowns and other restrictions.

Third, all social, economic and humanitarian responses must take the needs of older people fully into account, from universal health coverage to social protection, decent work and pensions.

The majority of older people are women, who are more likely to enter this period of their lives in poverty and without access to healthcare. Policies must be targeted at meeting their needs.

And fourth, let’s not treat older people as invisible or powerless.

Many older people depend on an income and are fully engaged in work, in family life, in teaching and learning, and in looking after others. Their voices and leadership count.

To get through this pandemic together, we need a surge in global and national solidarity and the contributions of all members of society, including older people.

As we look to recover better, we will need ambition and vision to build more inclusive, sustainable and age-friendly societies that are fit for the future.l

António Guterres is the ninth SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations, who took office on 1st January 2017.

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nHEALTH

nENTERTAINMENT

nRELATIONSHIPS

nRECIPES

Reggae classic ‘One Love’ Re-issued to Help Children Upended by COVID Crisis

nSPORTS

nHOROSCOPE

Kitchen Corner BBQ Salmon with Grilled Vegetables BBQ salmon is an easy and delicious one “pan” meal with the main dish and side dish cooked to perfection right on the grill!

Ziggy Marley/ ©UNICEF/Nicole Toutounji

T

he iconic Bob Marley song One Love is to be re-released with the blessing of the musician’s family to support children whose lives have been upended by COVID-19, the UN said.

The fundraising initiative comes as the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned that an additional 6,000 children could die every day from preventable causes in the next six months.

Almost all of them live in developing countries, where the coronavirus pandemic has placed additional strain on already fragile health systems and basic services.

Call for unity, then and now Issued in 1977 by Bob Marley and the Wailers, with a call for unity and to tackle the suffering of children, a new version of the much-loved reggae anthem will go on sale on Friday 17 July.

It features members of the Marley family, world-renowned musicians, artists from conflict zones and children from vulnerable communities.

“Over 40 years ago, my father wrote One Love about unity, peace and universal love during a time when there was much trouble in the world”, said Cedella Marley. “Even in a time when we aren’t able to ‘get together’, his message

remains true today: we can get through this global crisis if we come together through one love and one heart.”

The project also has the support of jewelry brand Pandora, which has pledged to match every dollar raised to purchase One Love, up to the value of $1 million.

A bid for greater equality All proceeds will support Reimagine, UNICEF’s global campaign to prevent the COVID-19 emergency from becoming a lasting crisis for children.

“One Love speaks directly to one key truth about this pandemic: our best hope to defeat COVID-19 and to reimagine a more equal, less discriminatory world for children is through global solidarity and co-operation”, said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. “We are delighted that the Marley family along with Pandora have lent their generous support, creativity and love to help the most vulnerable children.”

“We have a unique opportunity to chart a brighter future for the children and young people mostly likely to suffer its long-term consequences”, said Ms. Fore.

“From ending violence, injustice and discrimination, to building fairer and more just societies, young people have made their message loud and clear. It is time for the rest of the world to hear it.”l

Ingredients 3 bell peppers, cut into large chunks 2 red onions, cut into large chunks 3 medium zucchini, cut into large chunks 2 cloves garlic, grated 2 Tbsp. olive oil 1/2 tsp. salt 4 -6 skin-on salmon fillets about 1-inch thick 1 cup BBQ sauce 3 Tbsp. sliced green onions Instructions 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high.

2. On a grill-safe baking sheet or grill pan, add vegetables and grated garlic, and toss with 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle vegetables with sea salt, and then arrange in a single layer. Place baking sheet over the hottest part of the grill and let vegetables sear, turning every so often so they become seared on all sides.

salmon with remaining oil, and lay each fillet skin-side down onto the grill. Brush each salmon with a generous amount of BBQ sauce. Close the grill and let salmon cook for 6-8 minutes. Brush with more BBQ sauce, and cook salmon for 24 minutes more, until salmon is lighter in color, and becomes slightly firm to the touch, but, being careful not to overcook salmon.

4. Move vegetables to a platter when finished, and serve salmon fillets over grilled vegetables. Sprinkle salmon with sliced green onion and serve!l Servings: 4-6 Prep: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Recipe courtesy Annessa Chumbley, RDN as part of an effort to support fishermen and the seafood community. #EatSeafoodAmerica!

3. Meanwhile, brush both sides of the

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SPORTS & BOOKS

22

NWSL: Serena Williams & Natalie Portman Invest in New LA Women's Football Team

Reading for Summer

Harness the hidden power of kindness

A

group including Serena Williams will fund a new Los Angelesbased women's team to launch in time for the 2022 National Women's Soccer League season.

Tennis great Williams joins several other high-profile women, including Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman, in founding the female-majority group.

The team name and home venue are yet to be decided, but the ownership group has called itself 'Angel City'.

There is currently no California-based team in the NWSL. NWSL commissioner Lisa Baird says the league has "long sought" an LAbased team, which already has a "massive" interest in women's football.

Williams' husband Alexis Ohanian, cofounder of tech company Reddit, is part of the ownership group. The couple's two-year-old daughter Olympia is also listed as an owner.

Among the group too are 14 former US national team players, actresses Eva Longoria, Jennifer Garner, Uzo Aduba,

Serena WIlliams Editorial credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com

Jessica Chastain and America Ferrera, plus investors from the technology and media sectors.

"We come together with a collective passion for bringing about change," added the consortium's co-founder and president Julie Uhrman, who is a media

Natalie Portman Editorial credit: DFree / Shutterstock.com

and gaming entrepreneur.

"Change for our players, change for our fans, and change for our community.

Change that begins today."l —BBC Sports

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K

indness isn’t merely about getting along with people and being nice. It’s a game changer in business, the door-opener to opportunity, and the key to authenticity and confidence.

It’s a superpower that can be honed through an intentional lifestyle of kindness and is especially important in these divisive times.

Can something as simple as kindness really be the answer?

Through years of developing her own kindness practices and studying those of others, Good Morning America correspondent and anchor Adrienne Bankert has experienced firsthand the unbeatable power of kindness and witnessed its transformative impact on others.

Adjusting our perspective from being closed off and self-centered to a mindset of kindness ripples into a staggering amount of personal fulfillment and growth. No matter our age or ethnicity, where we come from, or how much money we make, every one of us can be kind. Every one of us can be a change agent.

Your Hidden Superpower will help you: •See simple acts of kindness from a new and empowering perspective; •Learn how to make kindness a habit and experience more peace, inspiration, and impact; •Engage kindness at work and enjoy remarkable opportunities—plus, know how to get from “here” to “there” quickly; and •Activate kindness as a force to reconnect you to your authentic self, replenish your passion and creativity, and find your voice.l —amazon.com

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

23

Secrets for Attracting Your Dream Guy Needing Him: Real men are attracted to confident women who also need their men to do things and to help them occasionally. Don’t be overly independent where you don’t want or need your man.

Men often are fixers and they want to make their partner happy. They don’t want to hear about your hang-ups about your body all the time, so avoid being complainy and weak. Avoid going haywire on your body issues or other items and show him your confident side. Men like to be needed. Show him you need him.

BY JENNINE ESTES

F

inding the right person to spend your life with is no easy task. With 7 billion people on the planet, it would be easy to wind up with someone who’s actually not so compatible.

Ultimately, if you surround yourself with similar people, act with confidence, and make your interest in the other person clear, you’re off to a great start! Consider the following tips when you’re attracting your dream guy.

Avoid Being A Fake You: Some women put on a fake image of who they are in fear that they will not be liked. Women can actually hurt their chances of attracting their dream guy when they put on this false image because it doesn’t come out as the authentic YOU. Most men can really pick up on the masked identity that a woman displays and it tells them the woman isn’t secure in their own skin.

Men want women who are secure, confident, and can express themselves openly.

Instead, be YOU. Give Attention: All humans love attention from others and are attracted to people who give them attention. Plain and simple. Give men attention by asking questions and show interest in them.

Make sure not to go over board and

appear desperate. The worst thing you can do is freeze up and wait for them to stir up conversation.

Avoid Appearing Desperate: You may be so hungry for a relationship that you are willing to go out of your way to date or available at any sign of meeting up. Men need a bit of a chase. Avoid appearing desperate.

Desperation appears as if you are weak. Instead, schedule out time with your friends and stick to your plans no matter what.

Be Noticed: If you position yourself in a hidden corner at a party, you won’t ever be noticed. Make sure to be near the center of the room or in a location that has a lot of traffic. The more you are noticed, the more opportunities to finding the right guy.

Surround Yourself to What you are Attracted to: Put yourself in environments that draws out your strengths, yet it is putting you in a place where your dream man may be. For example, if your dream man is physically active, join a hiking club that will surround you with that kind of person. Not only will you enjoy the environment, but you will also be around what you are attracted to.

Avoid putting yourself in environments that prevent you from shining or draws out negative characteristics in men. For example, don’t spend all your weekends at the local bar where the only common theme is alcohol. Find a place where your strengths will shine and your confidence comes out. Men are attracted to women who are secure and confident.

Physical Attraction and Body Language: Nothing gets to a man quicker than a great smell, a beautiful smile, and body language. Avoid standing with folded arms, chewing on gum, or picking at your nails. Take focusing on your physical appearance…along with how you smell. Once again, stand with confidence and show it through your body language.l About Jennine Estes, MFT is a Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, CA. Estes is certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples and writes relationship and self-growth advice for her column, Relationships in the Raw. She is the creator of #BeingLOVEDIs campaign.

MFC#47653

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July is BIPOC Mental Health Month Formally recognized in June 2008, Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed each July and was created to bring awareness to the unique struggles that underrepresented groups face regarding mental illness in the United States.

Bebe Moore Campbell was an American author, journalist, teacher, and mental health advocate who worked tirelessly to shed light on the mental health needs of the Black community and other underrepresented communities.

People and language evolve, and Mental Health America (MHA) has chosen to remove the word “minority” from our toolkit and will be phasing it out on our materials. Instead, we are using a different designation – BIPOC – that we believe more fairly honors and distinguishes the experiences of Blacks, Indigenous People, and People of Color.

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25

CARIBBEAN STAR

Vincentian Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur: Christal Oliver

T

his month, OECS YES In Action caught up with Christal K Oliver, a 29 year old Creative from St. Vincent and the Grenadines embracing the improvements to e-commerce and digital connectivity propelled by the COVID-19 pandemic and encouraging other creatives to find their silver lining despite current challenges.

As a fashion designer and radio personality, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to pursue my main passions: designing handbags and other fashion items, sewing, and sharing my views on matters that affect the youth and other vulnerable sectors in the hope of change.

I am also passionate about youth entrepreneurship, it means a lot to me as I see it as an effective means of self-expression, sustainability, independence, adventure, personal development and breaking down barriers and stigmas that (we are now closer to saying) once existed.

In addition to these interests, I am a lover of steel pan music. I am integrally involved, from the performing level all the way to the organizing and structural level.

I enjoy everything Caribbean; food, culture, music, arts, history, and my dream is to visit every Caribbean island before I begin exploring the rest of the world. I especially enjoy exploring my island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Spending time on our beaches is where I feel calmest and most at peace.

When did you first notice your inclination towards Design and Entrepreneurship?

To be honest, through my primary and secondary education, I didn’t pay much attention – I was always selling something and creating something. It wasn't until later that I took my studies more seriously. In 2009 I really opened my eyes to Fashion and Entrepreneurship and realized that these were my passions and what I was meant to do.

My family is quite the creative bunch.

We are carpenters, we do crochet, we sew, we're musically inclined, we love gardening and most of us have some sort of small business. I believe that it was in my DNA to follow this path as well.

Although I embraced sewing and fashion in 2009, it wasn't until 2017 that I finally decided to dive headfirst into entrepreneurship. It was a scary move, but I do not regret it one bit.

What inspired you to start?

I was a Customer Service Representative at a local bank, and I wasn't happy doing the same routine tasks over and over every day. I wanted a bit more excitement, and I wanted to do something that I actually enjoyed so much that it didn't feel like work. For me, running my own business, planning and problem solving, doesn't feel like work – neither does designing or sewing. It's as natural as

breathing to me.

am truly grateful.

What obstacles, if any, did you face and how did you overcome them?

Initially, I didn't know enough about business, so I joined a local Business Services Organization that offered workshops – this assisted in learning the basics. Many of the other obstacles were overcome through research, and taking a few additional classes here and there.

What advice do you have for other Caribbean youth aspiring to get involved in the creative sector?

I would encourage Caribbean youth to be brave and bold. Be persistent and patient. Work hard and learn to master time management. It's going to get really difficult at times, so when these times come around remember why you chose this path and continue. You will make it!

It's not about the destination, but the journey. Stay focused and don't miss the little things in life.

Tell us about the journey from the first spark of interest to where you are currently.

It hasn't been easy but it's been a lot of fun. Emotionally, your business is your baby and you never want to see anything go wrong. This journey has afforded me many opportunities to meet new people, to network across the globe, to travel, to spread my creativity and of course to get the name of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as well as Olive Art Designs out there.

There have been a lot of lessons on this journey, some I've learnt, some I'm still learning and some yet to be learnt. I'm grateful for the support that I've gathered thus far and for my customers.

What has been your biggest challenge along the way?

E-Commerce has been my biggest challenge thus far. This would include the full works: receiving payments, and shipping. The Caribbean is a small market compared to the rest of the world, so many of the platforms that are available outside of the region aren't available here. It hasn't been an easy segment to get into, but recently (because of the COVID-19 pandemic) some solutions have begun to come on stream. I am grateful, not for the reason but for the fact that the Caribbean on a whole is isolating this problem and dealing with it in 2020.

What’s next for you? What are you looking forward to?

I'm looking forward to officially launching my website and seeing where that takes the business. I'm also looking forward to starting a YouTube Channel, both personally and for the business. I am also looking forward to being able to travel and take part in regional and international events.l

Available at Amazon.com

How have you used the current COVID-19 global pandemic to your advantage?

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced me to sit down and do a lot of back end work that I would otherwise put off. During this downtime, I really didn't have a choice but to focus on the business end of things. This period highlighted to me the importance of diversification and going digital. This is a market that has been neglected for quite some time and, now that we're all spending more time online, it's the best time to advertise and market your products in the online space.

Did you have any key mentors or people who deeply influenced your journey?

I am a very sociable individual, so my support team is quite large. There are persons, family and friends, who would have continuously motivated me to go forward even when times were difficult. For that I

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Christal Oliver

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27

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE

Protect Your Home While Traveling

BY JOE SZYNKOWSKI

V

acation is a time to relax and see some of the beautiful sights our country offers. Is your home safe while you are on an extended stay? Who will protect your belongings while you’re gone?

A good way to keep your home safe while you are away is to find someone you trust to live there until you return. If you know someone you trust who can do this, it is a huge advantage.

If you are unable to find a suitable house sitter, there are still a few options. An obvious threat we fear while we are away is being vulnerable to a break-in. While that may be your No. 1 concern, there are other factors to consider. Take steps to protect your home so you can unwind and recharge on this vacation.

Make It Look Like Someone is Home It can be beneficial to have your yard work done for you during your trip. Hire someone to mow your lawn, trim hedges or even plant an attractive flower bed you can come home to. Giving the impression that outdoor maintenance is being completed is a good way to make your home look occupied.

Be sure to have your mail and newspaper delivery services held. A pile of papers on your doorstep is a clear sign

that you haven’t been home for several days. Potential burglars also might choose to check mailboxes for clues that the house is vacant.

Even if you are unable to find a parttime resident to stay at your home, ask friends or family members to keep an eye on your property. Ask someone to drive by on their way to and from work to make sure everything looks secure.

Security Features Consider installing a security system.

Some models can communicate with a security center, which will call law enforcement at any sign of trouble. You also will be notified of any activity.

If a security system is not in your budget, you can find comfort in exterior lights.

Keeping the perimeter of your home well-lit will dissuade wrongdoers. You can install lights on timers or even ones that are motion activated for an affordable price. Consider interior light timers and program them to come on when the sun goes down.

Adding deadlocks to your exterior doors will reinforce their strength. While enough force will ultimately cause the door to open, most thieves won’t spend a lot of time on a secure door, due to the fear of being seen.

Utility Management Before you leave, try to unplug electronic devices, as they continue to draw power even when they are not operating.

Consider using a programmable thermostat to maintain the temperature throughout the day. Turning off the heating or air conditioning in your home completely can be dangerous to a home over long periods, especially when it is extremely hot or cold outside.

Some “smart thermostats” can even be controlled by a device such as a smartphone. They can be pricey but being able to control your home’s temperature wherever you are might give you peace of mind.l

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HEALTH

What Those Living With Asthma Can Do to Manage Their Condition

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sthma is a lung disease that makes breathing difficult for over 24 million Americans.

While there is no cure, proper management can help those that live with asthma lead a normal, healthy life.

Education plays a key role in making this happen. Here are four important questions and answers about asthma selfmanagement education from the American Lung Association: 1. What is asthma self-management?

The best medicines and best healthcare providers in the world can only do so much to help you manage your asthma if you are not also doing your part. For this reason, self-management is essential.

“Self-management” refers to the things you can do for yourself to keep your asthma in control, have fewer asthma symptoms and better enjoy life. Here are seven major steps to asthma self-management: •Understanding asthma and breathing.

•Talking with your healthcare providers.

•Learning about and how to use your asthma medicines.

•Making changes in your life to prevent

icines correctly. These programs can also improve your ability to avoid or reduce exposure to your asthma triggers. All this can potentially result in fewer symptoms, asthma flare-ups, missed work or school days and emergency department or urgent care visits, for an overall improved quality of life.

asthma problems.

•Knowing your asthma symptoms and keeping track of them.

•Checking your airways with a peak flow meter.

•Knowing what to do when your asthma is out of control.

2. What are the benefits of participating in an asthma self-management program? Completing an asthma selfmanagement education program can improve your knowledge about your specific type of asthma. It can also help you feel more confident in monitoring your symptoms, working with your healthcare providers, and in using your asthma med-

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3. What skills will I learn? Asthma selfmanagement education programs cover the basics about asthma and how it affects the body, as well as give participants the ability to use tools to monitor symptoms and take medicines properly.

Participants also develop problem-solving skills for when asthma symptoms worsen and learn how to make lifestyle changes to avoid asthma triggers, including stress management, staying active with exercise and avoiding tobacco smoke. Through these programs, participants develop self-advocacy and communication skills for working with healthcare providers.

4. Where can I turn for asthma selfmanagement education? The Lung Association offers asthma programs to

help you learn asthma self-management skills, including the adult-focused asthma self-management program, Breathe Well, Live Well, and two pediatric programs, Open Airways For Schools and Kickin’ Asthma. These programs are designed to help millions of Americans with asthma learn the skills to make lifestyle changes that will improve symptoms and quality of life. Additionally, the Lung Association offers a self-paced online program called Asthma Basics, which is a first step to learning more about the disease. Asthma Basics is ideal for people with asthma, or anyone caring for someone with asthma and is available at Lung.org/asthma-basics. To access these resources and learn more about lung health, visit Lung.org.

Asthma, if uncontrolled, can have serious consequences. However, knowledge can empower those living with asthma to take more control of the condition and improve their quality of life.

Further research is needed on sexual activity in specific cardiovascular conditions, particularly in relation to women and older adults.l(Statepoint)

AFTER YOU HAVE A LUNG REMOVED, TAKE SHORT BREATHS.

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ELECTIONS 2020

30

How to Help Friends Vote Absentee From Anywhere in the World

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or military members and their families stationed away and U.S. citizens living abroad, family and friends are vital connections to life back khome. For the 2020 general election, those friends can be an important source of voting information, especially for young people voting for the first time.

And this year it’s even more important to register and request an absentee ballot early to avoid potential mail delays or other disruptions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

An easy way to help loved ones in the military or abroad vote absentee is by referring them to the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP), which provides tools and resources to ensure that American citizens can vote from anywhere in the world.

Voters can visit FVAP.gov to find stateby-state official registration and ballot request deadlines, as well as information on completing a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), which is the registration and ballot request form, and the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB), the backup ballot. Both forms are available at FVAP.gov and can be

Pass Changes That Increase Funding and Access to Mental Health Services

filled out with the online assistant or by hand. For additional information, visit FVAP.gov, email Vote@FVAP.gov or call 1-800-438-VOTE (8683).

2. Using the FPCA provides our Service members, their families and overseas citizens with an option to receive balloting materials electronically.

Important things to remember: 1. Submitting your FPCA early is the best way to help ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.

3. Using the FPCA early grants voters the ability to use the FWAB as a backup ballot, if needed. l(Statepoint)

s health workers on the frontline face horrific conditions in hospitals in COVID-19 hot spots, as essential workers put their lives at risk to ensure the delivery of goods and services, as people in isolation increasingly have a hard time managing thoughts of self-harm and suicide, and as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) affected by the trauma of racism manage to survive, it is clear that a second health crisis is burgeoning – a mental health and substance use disorder crisis – layered on top of the existing health and economic crises.

We need your help to tell the Senate today that they must: •Provide for a $1.5 billion increase in funding for the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant; •Permanently expand authority and coverage of telehealth services beyond the emergency declaration; •Increase the amount the federal government gives to states to match Medicaid costs (Federal Medical Assistance Percentage) up to 12 percent; and •Pass the Medicaid Reentry Act, which would activate Medicaid coverage 30 days prior to release from the justice system.l

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