Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 154

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A D.B.A. OF I.Q. INC.

ISSUE 154 VOLUME 22

June 23, 2022

SERVING THE CARIBBEAN AND HISPANIC COMMUNITIES!

Tom Suozzi: Your Candidate for NY Governor - A Common-Sense Democrat Who Gets Things Done

BY CAW EDITORIAL STAFF

C

ongressman Tom Suozzi presents three decades of experience in public service. His long-standing political career with profound achievements serves as a critical offering for the position of the Chief Executive Officer of New York State.

Arguably, his knowledge of how to run the government, the people's needs, convictions, and skills makes him a strong candidate for winning the June 28 Democratic Primary.

Suozzi is up against two democrats, including appointed Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Public Advocate continued on page 4

Mayor Adams Opens Affordable Homes on Former Site of Spofford Juvenile Detention Center, Where He Was Once Held ....3

Tom Suozzi and running mate Diana Reyna Photo: Suozzi-Reyna Campaign

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY: WE ENDORSE THE SUOZZI-REYNA TEAM! ....3

The Pain and Suffering from Arleigh Louison’s Fraud Continues

Knowledge is Power when you use it!

Get the BEST Consultation!

Ask the Lawyer:

BY MARY CAMPBELL

Call 855-768-8845

I

n the Caribbean community, persons face many legal issues.

Concerns include getting legalized, divorce, estate planning after a loved one has passed or is dying or being hurt in an auto accident or on the job. One common denominator, one common problem, one common philosophy, and one common sorrow is the issue of pain. continued on page 12

A Q & A with the Unstoppable Leticia James, New York’s Attorney General ....10

Meet Kenesha Traynham-Cooper 56th AD District Leader ....8 The late “Untouchable “Louison.

Photo: Facebook

Brian Figeroux, Esq., Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association INSIDE: •Getting Your Documents in Order

•Do You Need Extra

Insurance?

•The Importance of a

Living Trust

•Updating Your Will

•Estate Planning for

LGBQTIA+ Community

•Planning for Disabled Children

•Choosing An Estate

Attorney

•Taking Inventory

Become a Paralegal! Get on the Path to Success! ....14

DOT Announces Plan for Older Adult Pedestrian Safety....11

Vaccinations for Youngest Kids Get Final CDC Approval ....9

8-page Insert ....15

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Common Sense Democrats Who Will Reduce Crime & Cut Taxes

Tom Suozzi and Diana Reyna will: 3 Tackle the crime wave to make our neighborhoods and businesses safe 3 Focus on the rising costs of living that place families and businesses at risk 3 Improve our schools by incorporating social and preventive services 3 Confront the plague of corruption in state government in Albany 3 Address the high property taxes that threaten homeowners

Democratic Primary

Vote June 28th

Tom Suozzi for Governor & Diana Reyna for Lt. Governor SUOZZIFORNY.COM @TOM.SUOZZI

@TOM_SUOZZI

@TOM_SUOZZI

PAID FOR BY SUOZZI FOR NY | PAID FOR BY DIANA REYNA FOR NY VISIT WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR THE LATEST CARIBBEAN NEWS, IMMIGRATION UPDATES, VIEWPOINTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK @CAWNYC!

Photo courtesy: Brooklyn Borough President Office

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NYC POLITICS

Mayor Adams Opens Affordable Homes on Former Site of Spofford Juvenile Detention Center, Where He Was Once Held

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EW YORK: New York City Mayor Eric Adams on June 22, continued efforts to provide New Yorkers with affordable housing options by opening 183 deeply affordable units, in addition to a cultural arts center, on the former site of the Spofford Juvenile Detention Center — the site where he was held at 15 years old — in the Hunts Point neighborhood of the Bronx. The detention center was closed in 2011, after 54 years in operation with notoriously poor conditions for the youth detained there. Once complete, the full five-acre redevelopment project — called The Peninsula — will bring 740 affordable homes, an early childhood education center, a wellness center, a one-acre public plaza, and a supermarket to Hunts Point.

“Today is a new day for Hunts Point and so many young people who were traumatized at Spofford,” said Mayor Adams. “I went from being a detainee here to becoming the mayor who is working to transform it. And now, we are taking a major step forward in that transformation and bringing this community the affordable homes, good-paying jobs, and public space they deserve.”

“The Peninsula highlights the city’s efforts to prioritize the needs of the Hunts Point community and to build a more inclusive economic recovery that delivers not just new housing but also an opportunity for residents to participate in the neighborhood’s economic revitalization,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic and Workforce Development Maria Torres-

Mayor Adams. Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

Springer. “Building on the first phase of this project — which created light manufacturing space that several Bronx-based small businesses are already planning to call home — we are celebrating today both the first residential building completed at this new campus, as well as the completion of affordable rehearsal spaces and performing space for local artists. I thank all involved on this project and look forward to working with them all to bring the rest of the vision for the campus to life in the coming years.”

This $121 million, 100-percent affordable housing phase of this project — with retail space and studio space for emerging artists — reflects Mayor Adams’ commitment to place New Yorkers into safe, high-quality, affordable homes, as outlined in his blueprint for the city’s affordable housing crisis, ‘Housing Our Neighbors: A Blueprint for Housing and Homelessness.’ The first phase of the project, completed today, includes 183 affordable homes for New Yorkers earning between 30 and 80 percent of the area

median income, with 18 homes specifically reserved for New Yorkers who previously experienced homelessness. The building also offers a wide range of amenities, including a community room, a children’s playroom, a fitness room, and bike storage space.

The development additionally includes a cultural arts center with a state-of-theart black box theater, an art gallery, a dance studio, a coworking space, and 26 artist studios. Inspiration Point Center for the Arts — a Bronx-based nonprofit — will operate the space, which will also serve as a community space for local events. The ground floor includes a 5,000-square-foot retail space.

When the entire project is complete, The Peninsula will feature: •Approximately 740 units of 100 percent affordable housing, with studio, one-, two-, three-, and some four- bedroom apartments; •An early childhood education center designed in coordination with the New York City Department of Education and the New York City School Construction Authority; •Recreational and community facilities, including artist studios, expanded programming for The Point Community Development Corporation (CDC), and a wellness center to be operated by community partner Urban Health Plan; •Commercial space, including a supermarket; and •Open space, including a one-acre landscaped public plaza.l

We Endorse Tom Suozzi and Diana Reyna for Governor and Lieutenant Governor of NY

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Q Inc, the publisher of Caribbean American Weekly, The Immigrant’s Journal, and Workers World Today is proud to endorse Congressman Tom Suozzi and his running mate Diana Reyna, former Councilmember and Deputy Borough President for four years under the Eric Adams Administration, for Governor and Lieutenant Governor of New York, respectively. We believe they

are the best team to govern New York.

Their proven leadership, understanding of the issues and ideas for solutions, and willingness to adjust bodes well for New Yorkers, in particular communities of color, immigrants, and workers. They have a track record of being consistent fighters for immigrants at the local, state, and federal levels. We ask our readers to

consider this when voting. It is unconscionable to vote for a candidate that would collaborate with ICE to deport immigrants who want a driver’s license to support and take care of their families.

We ask that on Tuesday, June 28, you give your vote to Tom Suozzi for Governor and Diana Reyna for Lieutenant Governor. l

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

Pearl Phillip Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Kenrick Williams Feature Writers Linda Nwoke Victoria Falk Contributors Jennine Estes Tarsha Gibbons Janet Howard Mary Campbell Travis Morales Chris Tobias Email info@myiqinc.com Telephone 718-771-0988 Website www.cawnyc.com

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NYC POLITICS Tom Suozzi for Governor/ continued from page 1 Jumaane Williams.

In an interview with People, Power & Politics Radio Show, he shared some of his vision and goals for the Empire state.

Who Is Tom Suozzi?

The Congressman self-describes as a "common-sense-Democrat, with ItalianIrish roots. He taught by the lessons and ideologies he learned from his Italian immigrant father. Presently, he is a serving member of Congress, a trained lawyer, and former Glen Cove, Nassau County executive mayor.

"I'm a proven executive. I have a heart for the people. That's why I'm in public service, but I have the skills to do the job.

I'm a common-sense Democrat; I won't pander to the left or the right. I'm sick and tired of all these extremists who fight with each other," he says.

Suozzi’s Vison as New York's Governor Suozzi is running on a platform of reducing crime, New York's high taxes, and fixing the broken school system that stands to jeopardize the lives of future generations are some of his key concerns. "I'm focused on reducing crime and making it more affordable for people to live here in New York," he says.

Moreover, "People are leaving because they can't afford it, and we must lift our children and our troubled schools that

Tom Suozzi and running mate Diana Reyna Photo: Suozzi-Reyna Campaign

have been left behind for generations."

Caribbean Experience He acknowledges a love for the Caribbean while recalling fond memories of his days in Jamaica and the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Memories rife with tales of friendship and tactile experiences enable him to appreciate the people better and form a lasting impression." Oh, I love the Caribbean. It was a big part of my life when I was young, in my twenties. I lived in Trinidad and Tobago for three months

and spent time in Jamaica. Suozzi also shared his lifelong friendships with other Caribbean nationals and third-generation Caribbean Americans.

Addressing the need of Black and Brown Communities /Immigrants in New York Based on those early impressions, Suozzi indicated he has a good rapport with Caribbean Americans and generally loves most people but has a soft spot for immigrants. "I'm a first-generation American myself, my father was born in

Italy, and three of my grandparents were immigrants."

He supports his statements with evidence of actions and recognition by reputable immigrant-supportive organizations. "I have a record throughout my entire time that I tried to help undocumented people, "he said. "I kicked ICE out of Nassau County when I was the County's Executive. I was the Person of the Year for the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC)," he explained. NYIC is a reputable organization that has been advocating for immigrants for decades.

That's very much unlike his opponent, who vowed to work with ICE to deport undocumented immigrants seeking a driver's license under a proposal by thenGovernor Elliott Spitzer.

Additionally, growing up with a father who experienced discrimination taught him to respect and treat everyone with dignity. It is a lesson that fuels his philosophy and career in public service.

"I have a warm spot for Caribbeans and all immigrants. My father was born in Italy, and the Italians were discriminated against in America in the 1930s. He couldn't get a job at a law firm because nobody would hire the Italians.

Everybody has a divine spark and is a creation of God, and we must treat people like that. And that's what motivates a lot of my public service. " He reiterated a commitment to reducing crime, fixing bail reform, and tackling education. The latter will solve some continued on page 5

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NYC POLITICS

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Tom Suozzi for Governor/ continued from page 4 drug and alcohol-related behavior among incarcerated youths in the black and brown communities. He says, "Over 75% of the people in jail have a drug or alcohol or mental health problem. 50% of the people in jail have a learning disability. When we fail children at a young age, we fail them for the rest of their lives."

Beyond making legislation, the state needs a different kind of leader to protect people's interests. "We need someone who has a heart for the people and the skills to run a government, to make it work for people. I have both. I am a proven executive."

Suozzi’s Opponent The Congressman was unequivocal in his view of Governor Hochul. He shared her past anti-immigrant statement and lack of support for most New Yorkers in some of her choice of executives. He believes that Hochul's gift of $600 million to the Buffalo Bills is a waste of taxpayers' money. Many agree with him.

Former presidential candidate and consumer advocate Ralph Nader blasted Hochul for her deal for a new Buffalo Bills stadium that would require $850 million in New York taxpayer funding. In a public letter, Nader argued the new stadium, slated to be built in Orchard Park for $1.4 billion, could be named the "Taxpayer Stadium. As your advisers know fully well, all economists conclude that tax-funded stadiums are an ocean of red ink and do not produce jobs," Nader said.

Suozzi also discussed Hochul's inconsistencies. "She endorsed a socialist for City Council in Queens. When she was running for Lieutenant Governor, she claimed to support drivers' licenses for undocumented immigrants and that she was against it before only to get votes.

What does she stand for? With me, I'm consistent. I've always been fighting for the people. And I'm a common-sense Democrat. I've got all the Democratic rankings, and I want people to work together to try and help the people and negotiate to get things done." he emphasized.

Supporting Unions and Their Members Observers say Tom Suozzi's candidacy enjoys the "union guy" imagery, partly driven by his narrative and intention to promote the union's message. One that rewards hard work and restores the aspirational middle-class life. "Everybody in America should believe that if you're willing to work hard, you'll make enough money to retire one day without being scared." As the Chair of the Labor Caucus, he has certainly done his part to support the work of labor unions and their members.

Mayor Eric Adams, Relationships and Working with Minorities Speaking fondly of his relationship with Mayor Eric Adams, Suozzi recalls endorsing and campaigning for him early on. Upon winning, Adams offered him the position of Deputy Mayor, which he

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 25, 2021: Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, U.S Congressman Tom Suozzi and New York City council member Ydanis Rodriguez attend the National Action Network's Mayoral Forum.

Editorial credit: Ron Adar / Shutterstock.com

declined because he decided to run for Governor of New York. "That was a great honor that he offered me the position.

That's because he recognized that I know how to run things, how government works."

He cited several cases in his career when he has worked with people of color and minority groups: appointing an African American Police Commissioner while serving as Nassau County's Executive, a Black Deputy County Executive for Economic Development, a Latina Commissioner of Mental Health, and a Latino for Commissioner of Parks and Recreation.

He strongly believes in placing black and brown people in nontraditional jobs and promoting them into positions of power. He also encourages making resources available to empower minority women-owned businesses. "The people who work in higher-level positions should look like the people of New York state. The contracts we give out should go to people who look like the people of New York state. We should provide capital to minority and women-owned businesses, so they can afford to bid on government contracts and register them."

Furthermore, he supports the idea of a public bank, a minority-owned bank, or a credit union that provides capital for black and brown home ownership and helps minority women own businesses bid and win contracts.

"Public housing is supposed to be a transition to home ownership. If you buy an affordable house and live there for years, you're passing on a place worth a lot more money to your kids when you pass away. The American Dream is home ownership. That's how you create generational wealth. " Running Mate: Diana Reyna Suozzi's running mate is former Councilwoman Diana Reyna and Deputy Borough President for Brooklyn for four years under Eric Adams. He spoke highly of her achievements and their similarities in ideologies. "She's fantastic. When she becomes the Lieutenant governor, she'll be the first Latina elected statewide in the history of New York state. I was looking for a woman of color to be my running mate. She's the perfect partner because we share the same values and vision," he said. "For example, devotion to families, service to the people, and the importance

of public safety and security," he explained.

Tom Suozzi and running mate Diana Reyna Photo: Suozzi-Reyna Campaign

Why Vote for Tom Suozzi as Governor of New York?

The Democratic Primary is on Tuesday, June 28. Early voting has already started.

Congressman Tom Suozzi wants the voters to support his candidacy as one focused on crime, taxes, helping kids in schools and going after the corrupt.

Furthermore, he considers himself a better democratic candidate with the best chance of winning against the Republican candidate in November.

"If you're a Democrat and want to win in November, I'm your candidate. Any other candidate who wins could lose the general election as hard as it is to imagine," he quipped. "Governor Kathy is failing on crime, and 91% of New Yorkers say crime is a serious issue. I'm a common-sense Democrat who will work for the people." l

THE DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY IS JUNE 28!

VOTE SUOZZI + REYNA!

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NYC POLITICS

A Conversation with Diana Reyna who is Ready to Serve New York as its First Latino and Female Lieutenant Governor

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BY LINDA NWOKE EXCLUSIVE TO CAW

D

iana Reyna is a New Yorker with over two decades of experience in politics. She served as the immediate past Deputy Brooklyn Borough President for the first four years under now Mayor Eric Adams and, for twelve years, served in the New York City Council representing the 34th District. But now, Ms. Reyna is the running mate for U.S. Representative Thomas Suozzi's Governorship candidacy for the position of the Lieutenant Governor of New York in the 2022 election.

What should New Yorkers expect?

Why is she running for the position?

What qualities set her apart from other competitors, and what qualifies her for this position? These were some of the questions Caribbean American Weekly asked the first Dominican-American woman to be elected into New York's public office.

Proven Leadership It is important to me to see the New York I need for my children and our families.

The opportunity to be able to provide New York with proven leadership. I have the executive and the legislative skills our state requires to be redirected into the forward path. We have out-of-control crime and public safety issues. The Washington Post considers New York state the most corrupt state in the United States, and people deserve better.

Vision for New York & Priorities We have to address public safety because that is precisely what we've repeatedly been hearing. The issue of bail reform needs fixing. We cannot be too proud to say we did something wrong, and we have to try to understand where the fix is necessary. We need to allow judges to look at history when they're reviewing cases before them. Working with law enforcement, judges, district attorneys, and prosecutors isn't one person's job.

This requires all of us, including the public. If the public does not invest in the process, we cannot address public safety.

It allows me to be able to address affordability in our state. Over 300,000 people have left New York just last year alone. And when people go, it's because something's wrong. Since 1957, we have had 45 congressional districts in New York. Today we have 27 congressional districts. We are losing one more. We're down to 26 congressional districts. We lose federal funding when we lose congressional districts and have a $220 billion state budget.

If we have fewer people, our taxes will continue to go sky high, more sales tax, higher gasoline tax, and electricity bills.

These taxes are drawn, driving New York

Diana Reyna Photo Diana Reyna Campaign

Diana Reyna Photo: Suozzi-Reyna Campaign

out of the middle class, and the poor are squeezed into communities. We have to do better about the affordability crisis that we're experiencing in New York.

We're not investing in what would be the wealth gap. Owning something in New York is very important to families and providing for them is critical.

Homeownership opportunity requires an affordability conversation.

Education and NYC's Segregated System Education is in a crisis. We're not talking about education that lost two years because of the pandemic. Before the pandemic, we had 66% of students leaving college and not finishing with debt.

Before that, they already were experiencing a two-year gap in education. Our educational content must align with where our children need to be.

We have to fix our troubled schools and build an educational system that will provide them with career skills. We have to invest in prevention and intervention programs in the schools and advance our curriculum and support. People want to see more parental representation in the Parent Educational Plans (PEPs).

The opportunities to improve schools shift the school's interest, and then we start to see a more integrated school. But you cannot address the racial and ethnic segregation issues if we're not improving our schools. Open enrollment is only going to exacerbate the schools that are doing well. So, what we have to do is raise the standards. We have to ensure that we provide our teachers the adequate training, and we need more state aid coming into our schools.

We also must remember that we have to start inspecting what we expect from our government. Assess the opportunities to have advanced curriculum, dual language, and global education in our edu-

cational system. That should be the standard across every school. Leadership in these schools is also critical. It's setting a climate of excellence for every school, not just some schools.

New York's Failing Health Care System Failing Minorities & Plans to Address This Inequity?

If we look at our health indicators, they're in the same communities where we have safety-net hospitals. Those are the publicly funded hospitals that are always underfunded. So that's the first order of business.

It's funding and investing in these hospitals' infrastructure on the Upper East Side. You have a first responding vehicle that can reverse a stroke within the first 72 hours of an instance of a stroke. But you don't find it in Bushwick, in Bedford-Stuyvesant, where the stroke is the highest indicator in all of the city of New York.

And so, when we think of our health care, let's look at measures and resources. What is maintained in other communities that helps people live longer, and we have to learn from that and then take that model and apply it is where needed most. We have to triage our health care system to function for patients to access dental, vision, and primary care. We also need to consider preventative measures, look at the person's medical history, and have coordinated medical care.

The Lieutenant Governor's Race I am very confident that the people will vote for a proven leader, executive, and people that know how to govern. And being an activist is not necessarily how you manage. Tom Suozzi [running mate for Governor] and I are experienced leaders and have a very unified approach.

We want to engage people, to get them involved and remain involved. And being able to run with someone that understands these issues like me is very important. Tom Suozzi and I are running independently, but together, understanding that people will want leadership that know how to govern.

Thoughts on the Brian Benjamin, Former the Lieutenant Governor Arrested on Campaign Fraud and Resigning, and the Effect on Her Campaign I think it affected Governor Hochul's campaign more than mine. She now has a credibility issue. Her selection was her first order of business in the state of New York. She gave Brian Benjamin authority to oversee the budget negotiations and the power to preside over the Senate and represent her administration. That speaks volumes of her bad judgment, leadership, and integrity. The odds as far as lieutenant governor for me have risen. But I cannot tell you how saddened it makes me, and I feel for Brian Benjamin's family.

Endorsements and Support for Candidacy So, I have received the endorsement of former Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer. I have received Councilmember Bob Holden's approval and Tom's. I received IBEW Local Three, Local 25, Local 1049, UAW Local One and Two Brotherhood of Railroad Signalman Local 56. And we're working towards D.C. 37. We're working towards UFT and peers in government.

Ours is a campaign that welcomes everyone's endorsement. If you believe in what we're talking about and want to discuss ideas for moving our state forward, we would like to meet with you. If you have an opportunity that you think will drive economic activity in this state so that it can create jobs, an idea to invest in our schools, we welcome that. We need everyone involved in this campaign.

Follow me on social media @Reyna4NY.l

THE DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY IS JUNE 28!

VOTE SUOZZI + REYNA!

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NYC POLITICS

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Meet Kenesha Traynham-Cooper 56th AD District Leader

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enesha Traynham-Cooper was born and raised in the Bedford Stuyvesant area of Brooklyn, New York, Tompkins Houses. She was raised by her mother, the late Sharon Traynham, father Kenneth Cooper and grandparents, Robert Chambers and the late Bessie Traynham. She was always taught to go to school to get good grades so that she could get a great job and so she followed that road map. She graduated with her Bachelor of Psychology from Medgar Evers College and shortly after, God gave her the greatest gift of all, her daughter Amira-Dior Traynham- Artis.

Traynham-Cooper was raised to understand the importance of giving back to the community as she shadowed her mother and Godmother, Karen Cherry, volunteering and working for Congressman Edolphus Towns for many years.

Her perception of life grew to become very different as her daughter grew to be a walking reflection of her so she worked hard to ensure that her daughter could have everything she needed and wanted.

Traynham-Cooper received her Master of Public Administration from Metropolitan College of New York 2010 while developing a deeper love for the community. After her mother passed away, she decided to create a program in her mother and uncle's memory entitled the Sharon & Stephen Traynham Creative Arts Fund (SSTCA) for Sickle

the end of the program, the children were gifted with stock at Charles Schwab Financial Services and a personal at home bank to help implement savings.

Since 2019, in memory of her grandmother’s birthday, she gives Thanksgiving dinners away on Thanksgiving Day to residents living in public housing. She would give the number of plates that would equate to the same number of years her grandmother would have turned that year. For example, if she would’ve turned 81 that year, then 81 plates would have been given out. For the past 8 years, Ms. TraynhamCooper has led a Christmas Toy Drive and Toy Distribution where she distributed toys to Tompkins, Marcy, Sumner, Brownsville, and Wagner Housing Developments and Volunteers of America- Domestic Violence Shelter.

December 2021 will launch the first year for “Stocks for My Little Tots,” where children in underprivileged communities will not only be gifted with a toy but also stock in companies to begin their journey to financial freedom.

In Spring 2019, Traynham- Cooper obtained her Master of Divinity from Nyack College so that she can integrate business, outreach, and ministry. Ms. Traynham- Cooper involves herself with organizations where there would be a platform to not only invest her time and expertise but also to learn from others.

All her morals and foundation have

District Leader Traynham-Cooper Credit: Traynham-Cooper Campaign

Cell Disease sending patients to art therapy such as yoga, music, massage, and art. The program lives under the umbrella of the Sickle Cell Thalassemia Patients Network in Brooklyn.

In 2012, Traynham- Cooper realized that to truly have what she wants out of life, she had to create multiple streams of income for herself and her family. She then became a private broker for a few Fortune 500 Companies. She traveled the world showing individuals in households as well as businesses how to lower their overall monthly expenses and help increase businesses' profit margin. She also has a program in place specifically to help churches and non-profit organizations receive funding through these companies. In January 2015, TraynhamCooper founded her company, 4 Future Generations, Inc. 4FG is currently an MWBE certified company with the City of New York and specializes in helping individuals live a better life. She serves in several areas such as business development and management, professional development and work readiness, community development, and health and wellness. She is also a consultant for NYCHA Resident Associations throughout New York City. One of her brainchild and relevant programs for NYCHA residents is the “Be Brave-Paint & Create Mental Health Awareness Tour” which is led by youth.

In 2018, she was awarded funding for the non-profit she founded, 4 Future Generations Entrepreneurship and Leadership Foundation, which teaches people as young as 4 years old to adults, entrepreneurship, and leadership with biblical and universal principles. She decided to begin at elementary school because she believes children are sponges and we must help them find their passions and talents and nurture them as well as adults, to result in a recessionproof society. In Summer 2021, Traynham-Cooper offered a free Summer Program for children participating in her home-based daycare, Monday- Friday teaching them financial literacy and at

derived from Vital Church NYC formerly known as Rose of Sharon Baptist Church located in Jamaica, NY where she worships, she’s the leader of the grow groups ministry, a liturgical dancer, and is led by her spiritual parents Bishop Martin K. Watson and Pastor Gail Watson. Other community-based organizations that she is involved with are the NAACP-NYCHA Branch where she serves as the Chair for Economic Development for New York City. A major part of her focus is to help people who live in New York City Housing Authority and other underprivileged communities. Her goal is to alter the scope of how people view NYCHA residents.

Ms. Traynham-Cooper is also a Chaplain and (Chaplain) Instructor with Healing Hearts Chaplaincy under the leadership of Chief Apostle Dr. Kim Best, member of the National Association of Negro and Business Professional Women's Club-Brooklyn Club, Board Member of Power Women & Community Building, Membership Chair for the Lion’s International, Board Member of The Chris Owens Foundation, Outreach Coordinator for the 79th Precinct Community Council, and member of the Association for Black Educators of New York. TraynhamCooper currently holds the title as the Mayor’s Action Plan Engagement Coordinator and Program Manager for the Center for Court Innovation working directly with the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice for the Neighborhood Safety Initiative in NYCHA. Her community organizing ideology that she has learned and embodied is to go into a community to find the needs, analyze what’s necessary, strategize on how to aid the need, and implement an action plan that's tangible for the people throughout the community to see.

Traynham-Cooper could adapt to any environment and she’s able to become anything she wants to be. To do these things, you must be determined, driven, fearless, wise, and confident. She embodied these traits throughout her entire life due to having to adapt to many different transition periods. Her Godgiven gift is giving to others. She looks to the future to continue to find a true need in society so that she can create and develop necessary programs for the betterment of the community. Her aim is to not only leave a legacy but also be able to duplicate and multiply all the talents and gifts into others that Jesus Christ has blessed her with.l To learn more about her campaign, visit www.56districtleaderktcooper.com

Vote Kenesha Traynham-Cooper for District Leader, 56th District on June 28 Listen to her interview at pppradio.nyc

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FAMILY MATTERS

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Vaccinations for Youngest Kids Get Final CDC Approval

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n June 18, the Centers for Disease Control Prevention (CDC) Director Rochelle, Walensky, MD, endorsed a unanimous recommendation by the agency's vaccine panel, for COVID-19 vaccines for children 6 months to 5 years as a go.

According to reports, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices amassed a confident vote of 120 to recommend use of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine in children 6 months to 5 years of age, as well as a vote of 12 to 0 to recommend use of the Pfizer vaccine in children ages 6 months to 4 years.

"I encourage parents and caregivers with questions to talk to their doctor, nurse, or local pharmacist to learn more about the benefits of vaccinations and the importance of protecting their children by getting them vaccinated," Walensky said in a statement.

The news is welcomed by millions of concerned parents who have been anxiously waiting for this approval. Medical groups, from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to the American Medical Association (AMA) applauded the decision.

Speaking at the ACIP meeting, pediatri-

cian Yvonne “Bonnie” Maldonado, MD, FAAP, chair of the AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases, emphasized the importance of these vaccines for the youngest members of our community, who have waited the longest for this protection.

“Pediatricians know the power of vaccines to protect infants, children, adolescents and entire communities against deadly and debilitating infectious diseases,” Dr. Maldonado said. “We’ve successfully immunized millions of children and adolescents to protect them from COVID-19. Families with infants and

toddlers need and deserve the same chance to protect their children against this virus.”

The AMA reaffirmed the urgency of these vaccines for young children.

“According to the CDC, COVID-19 is a leading cause of death among children ages 0-19 years. Since the beginning of the pandemic, among children in the U.S. aged 6 months to 4 years, there have been more than 2 million cases of COVID-19, more than 20,000 hospitalizations, and more than 200 deaths. We urge parents to get their children vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as they are eligible.

While there is overwhelming scientific evidence showing the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, we know many parents and families still have questions,” Jack Resneck, MD, president of the American Medical Association said in a press release.

Fever, Other Safety Considerations An article by Damian McNamara, MA, WebMD reported the following side effects: Pain was the most common local reaction reported in children up to 5 years in the Moderna vaccine research.

Most symptoms were mild and lasted 23

to 3 days. In terms of systemic adverse reactions, fever, irritability, crying, sleepiness and loss of appetite were most common in the 6 months to under 2-year group. In the 2-year- to 5-year-old children, fever, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and chills were most common.

There was one seizure caused by fever reported 3 days after a first dose, a reaction that the study investigator considered related to the vaccine in the Moderna study. "Approximately 6 weeks later, the child has remained in the study and received two doses of the vaccine without [further] events."

There were no cases of myocarditis or deaths reported in the Moderna or Pfizer studies.

Pain or tenderness at the injection site were the most common local reactions in the Pfizer study. In terms of systemic reactions, irritability and drowsiness were more common in children 6 months to under 2 years. Fatigue was most common in children ages 2 to 4 years. Most symptoms were mild and resolved within 1 to 2 days.

Fevers also were reported in the Pfizer trial, most lasting about 1 day. l

VACCINES BRING US CLOSER Vaccination protects you from getting very sick from COVID-19.

GET VACCINATED AND STAY UP TO DATE WITH YOUR BOOSTERS. To find a vaccination site, visit nyc.gov/vaccinefinder or call 877-VAX-4NYC. VISIT WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR THE LATEST CARIBBEAN NEWS, IMMIGRATION UPDATES, VIEWPOINTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK @CAWNYC!

NYC POLITICS

A Q & A With the Unstoppable Attorney General Letitia “Tish” JamesoGeneral

BY JANET HOWARD

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etitia "Tish" James is an American lawyer, activist, politician, and currently New York's Attorney General, the first African-American and first woman to be elected to the position.

She has had many firsts and accolades.

Before her current position, James served as a New York City Council member from 2004 to 2013. She represented the 35th district, which includes the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Clinton Hill, Fort Greene, parts of Crown Heights, Prospect Heights, and BedfordStuyvesant. James chaired the Economic Development and Sanitation Committees and served on several other committees.

She was later the New York City Public Advocate from 2013 to 2018. As Public Advocate, she became the first African American woman to be elected to and hold citywide office in New York City.

Her latest accolade was named one of Time's 100 Most Influential People for 2022. James is an unstoppable force known for holding power accountable, standing up for the vulnerable, and fighting to make New York a fairer and more just place.

Recently, Ms. James spoke to People, Power & Politics. Here is an excerpt Q&A of the conversation: PPP: As you seek reelection, what can New Yorkers expect from you?

AG James: So, we still have ongoing work to do. It's critically important that we continue to stand up, stand up to powerful interests on behalf of the vulnerable, continue our ongoing investigations, and have pending investigations into the Trump administration, Trump company, and the NRA. We are still looking at several developers and landlords who, unfortunately, have preyed upon lowincome individuals in vulnerable communities. We still have to address the issue of the scourge of opioids, which has devastated communities throughout the state of New York as well as throughout the country. We also have to focus on vaping, ensuring our children are protected.

And last but not least, we've got to stand up against hate. As you know, we are investigating social media companies due to the horrific incidents in Buffalo, New York. My thoughts and prayers go out to those affected and who lost their lives due to the carnage in Buffalo, Uvalde, Texas, and Tulsa, Oklahoma.

PPP: Yes. So, you have your work cut out for you, and we definitely need you in the office to continue doing the excellent job you've been doing. Since 2018, over 20 homeowners have been defrauded, according to an article by The City, in collaboration with our office. To date, they have not received justice. And we know that your office encourages persons to report consumer fraud to the bureau nearest them. However, this issue

continues in our community without retribution for the victims. How does your office handle such matters? What is the process to get an investigation going by your office?

AG James: So, we've been investigating deed theft, which is happening in my beloved Brooklyn, especially throughout Central Brooklyn. Before the pandemic, as you know, we did some outreach. We went door to door. We will do it again in person. We've got pending cases in Brooklyn, we've got in Manhattan, and we have some in Queens. And we are seeking to reverse these illegal and fraudulent transfer deeds. If anyone has any specific cases or complaints, they should reach out to our office at 1-800-7717755. Please reach out to our office so that we can investigate the alleged wrongdoing and see whether we can get justice for the victims. We were also instrumental in reforming the Lien Sale in New York City. And we do know that there were some challenges, and we are continuing to make sure that New York City gets it right. It was a priority of mine when I was a member of the City Council, as Public Advocate, and now as the Attorney General.

And it is also a priority of mine to focus on bad landlords. Individuals should be able to take care of their properties, those who violate the laws and who, unfortunately, allow individuals to live in conditions that affect their health and safety.

Please report those types of cases to my office so that we can take action against these bad landlords because it's critically important that they maintain their property and do not jeopardize their tenants' health and wellbeing. And that includes but it's not limited to children. Any lead violations, conditions, code violations, or maintenance violations, please call our office at 1-800-771-7755.

PPP: Public safety is a top priority for all New Yorkers. With the recent surge of violence and shootings in the subway and Buffalo, what are your plans to address gun violence at the state level?

AG James: Thank you for that question.

It's so critically important. To date, the Office of the Attorney General has removed over 30 guns off the streets of New York State. We've engaged and sponsored several gun buybacks with local authorities throughout the state of New York. We're going to continue to do that. So, if there's any organization, houses of faith, or community-based organizations that would like to join with us, we will do gun buybacks offering money or iPads to individuals to surrender their guns with no questions asked basically.

Secondly, as you know, the state legislature, to their credit, created a statute that allows us to seek to file actions against gun manufacturers and gun distributors.

The federal government, unfortunately, because they're in the pockets of the gun lobbyists, basically has provided immunity to gun manufacturers and distribu-

10

AG James. Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

tors. But here in New York, the state legislature has allowed me to pursue a case against gun manufacturers and distributors. So, stay tuned, and we'll have more to report. We are also working with other attorney generals again to address the flow of guns that come into the state of New York along I-95, which is the iron pipeline.

So, we're continuing to work with other attorney generals from other jurisdictions to stop the flow of guns that come up from the south, from states with lax gun laws and unfortunately caused carnage and death on the streets of New York City and New York State. We also have an Office of Criminal Task Force, an Organized Crime Task Force that works with law enforcement in the city and across the state. As we engage in takedowns of individuals who engage in gun and drug smuggling here in the state of New York, we've been very successful again in recovering and removing guns off the streets of New York. We will go to all ends to address gun violence and continue to work with all law enforcement officers, sharing data and working with them to stop the scourge of gun violence on the streets of New York City. One of the worst things as a public official is to attend the funeral of an individual who is the victim of gun violence. And I'm hoping that the United States Congress decides to step up and do something.

Prayers alone will not do. It's time that they do something, close the loopholes, and extend the age for individuals to get the XM-15, the guns of death.

It's time that they provide background checks. It's time that they prevent individuals who suffer from mental illness and individuals who have been convicted of domestic violence from getting guns.

There needs to be a red flag law passed in this country. And I'm hoping and praying that this task force that has been formed, this bipartisan task force, gets it right and stands up on behalf of children as opposed to defending the rights of the gun lobbyists.

PPP: So, we know that New York is home to one of the biggest immigrant populations. We know that you and the Brooklyn District Attorney stood up for immigrants and stood up to ICE to keep

them out of the courtrooms. What other ways are you fighting for all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status, to ensure the right to safety services and an equitable workplace?

AG James: Well, first, let me say we see an increase in hate, particularly against the immigrant community. And individuals must understand that if you are a victim of hate, you must come forward, that no one will ask you about your immigration status. That is critically important that you understand our priority is keeping you safe and protecting your rights.

Two, as you know, under the former administration, the Trump administration, we continue to stand up for immigrants, defending the public charge, removing the citizenship question off of the census, removing ICE from our courtrooms, defending DACA, which was absolutely, really critically important, and making sure that individuals, the rights of immigrants were protected.

And we will continue to do that. We saw during the COVID-19 pandemic that individuals were preying upon immigrants, and we also took action against individuals who were calling themselves attorneys when they were nothing more than a notary public. So, individuals must understand the Office of the Attorney General is here to serve, regardless of their immigration status. We do not ask that question. We only ask how we can serve you and get justice for you and your family.

We are here to serve, and no one in this office will ever ask anyone about their immigration status. Our job is to serve and stand up on behalf of New Yorkers in the name of sweet justice. Thank you so much.

Conclusion Ms. James is a great person, a formidable candidate, and she is doing a hell of a job. We are proud to have supported her through all her campaigns. The Democratic Primary election is June 28, and she is without a challenger. She will be contested in the general election in November 2022.l

This is an excerpt.

Listen to the full interview at www.pppradio.nyc

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IN THE NEWS

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Vision Zero: DOT Announces Plan for Older Adult Pedestrian Safety

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EW YORK: NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez on June 14, announced that the NYC Department of Transportation has released the Pedestrian Safety and Older New Yorkers Study, as well as a series of initiatives that are part of a larger investment to improve overall pedestrian safety at intersections.

The study analyzes key factors contributing to crashes amongst older New Yorkers and put forth commitments to Vision Zero treatments like turn calming, which lower senior pedestrian deaths and serious injuries by up to 60%. The report also identified new Senior Pedestrian Zones to guide future engineering, enforcement and education. DOT will install turn calming treatments at 50 intersections annually and drastically expand pedestrian head-starts (known as Leading Pedestrian Intervals — or LPIs) installations by 2024 within those same zones, along with a host of other commitments to keep older pedestrians safe.

“We recently convinced Albany to allow us to operate our speed cameras 24/7, but we have even more work to do,” said

DOT Commissioner, other officials and community members at the press conference. Editorial credit: PP/IQINC

Mayor Eric Adams. “Because the lives of the oldest New Yorkers are so precious, we are going to also work around the clock to protect them — being relentless in our pursuit of street safety — including safer designs.”

“Crashes do not necessarily occur more often to older pedestrians, but we have found that when they do happen, the crashes are far deadlier,” said DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “That is why we must make the areas around senior centers even safer, building safer streets that are inclusive to all New Yorkers -- but especially those who are

most vulnerable. Data is always at the forefront of our work, and this study allows us to make targeted investments that will save the lives of seniors citywide.”

“As an age-inclusive city that is committed to providing community care for older New Yorkers, protecting our older adults from traffic injuries and traffic deaths is imperative. I would like to thank the Department of Transportation’s leadership for highlighting this important issue and for the target goals outlined in the study that will help improve pedestrian safety,” said Department for the

Aging Commissioner Lorraine CortésVázquez.

Senior Pedestrian Zones identified in the study will guide future engineering, enforcement and education. They cover the locations of approximately 30% of citywide older adult fatalities and severe injuries but only 13% of the city’s square mileage. DOT’s data driven commitments include: •Extending LPI crossing times during mid-day in Senior Pedestrian Zones and at new LPI locations by the end of 2024 •Adding LPIs at all feasible intersections on Priority Corridors in Senior Pedestrian Zones by the end of 2024 •Creating Senior Turn Calming initiative and installing treatments at 50 Older Adult targeted intersections annually •Implementing ten or more Senior Street Improvement Projects annually •Targeting Raised Crosswalks to older pedestrians and safety improvements near and at bus stop locations •Targeting safety improvements to bus stop locations under elevated trains •Targeting Older Adult Education and Outreach to Senior Pedestrian Zones l

Speeding ruins lives. Slow down.

Building a Safer City VISIT WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR THE LATEST CARIBBEAN NEWS, IMMIGRATION UPDATES, VIEWPOINTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE!LIKE US ON FACEBOOK @CAWNYC!

IMMIGRATION Arleigh Louison Fraud/ continued from page 1 We spoke to Attorney Brian Figeroux of the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates. Mr Figeroux has been practicing immigration law for almost 25 years and is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). He shared the following: "When clients come to us on matrimonial matters, there's the pain of a divorce. It's painful. When people come to the office with immigration issues, it's a painful situation. If they have been taken advantage of and defrauded, they've been here for many years, undocumented, and exploited by their employers or fellow people from their own community. So, yes, pain is a common thing. With estate planning, clients come in, and sometimes maybe it's too late when somebody is deceased or when someone is dying. And that painful situation brought them to your office, but they should have been doing wills, trust, and estate planning. Civil rights issues include the NYPD or the federal government violating someone's civil rights. Their civil rights may be violated on the job, whether a private company, a federal public company, or a state company. So, what attorneys do, we resolve legal issues and the pain that comes with it."

Forgiveness The Bible teaches us to forgive and for-

12 "Forgiveness doesn't solve problems.

Sometimes it exaggerates it.

It makes it more painful in the future when you must make that decision that you have been delaying.”

- Brian Figeroux, Esq. get. With forgiveness comes different outcomes. Some of the results do not always work in the best interest of the person doing the forgiving. Figeroux has this to say: "Sometimes, we do counseling. Maybe that's why they say, a counselor at law, you're not only counseling law; sometimes, you must provide counsel in life. And the issue that we are talking about is pain. How do we resolve the pain that comes with legal representation? We should represent you professionally, vigorously, and obviously with empathy when you have a legal issue.

Yes. And that pain, unfortunately, may make you guys make bad decisions. Are you or your wife having an affair? Is that the reason you want a divorce? And should you forgive that person? And what does forgiveness mean? You could take forgiveness in the context of love. It could be spiritual. But attorneys give you

your legal options and tell you the legal consequences of your forgiveness. So, forgiveness has consequences in every area of law. And the more you forgive, the more it works to your disadvantage in litigation and almost every law area."

Figeroux went on to explain: "Forgiveness doesn't solve problems.

Sometimes it exaggerates it. It makes it more painful in the future when you must make that decision that you have been delaying. And the common thing is, oh, I loved him. Oh, I love her. But did they really love you? But I want you to talk when you come for our consult. I want you to tell me the truth of your problem, and I will give you legal advice and pain advice based on all the pain that I've seen in our community for the last 25 years."

Pain and Arleigh Lousion Federal law enforcement agents arrested

Arleigh Louison on July 18, 2019. He was indicted in Vermont on 12 counts of making false statements and submitting over 1,800 fraudulent immigration applications to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

"A federal grand jury returned a 12count indictment against Arleigh Louison, 53, of Brooklyn, New York, charging him with running an immigration fraud scheme that included the filing of false statements with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, including over 1,800 fraudulent applications for over 1,000 petitioners within the last four years. Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) agents arrested Louison in Brooklyn, New York, and executed a federal search warrant at his office," said the U.S. Department of Justice press release.

"The indictment charges that the false statements were made in connection with Form I-360 petitions for status adjustments under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). In short, the indictment charges that Louison presented or caused the presentment of adjustment of status petitions containing false statements to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Service Center in St. Albans, Vermont, claiming that the petitioners were victims of abuse. The indictment also charges that these petitioners, who paid Louison for his services, did not discuss the abuse with Louison, were not abused as described in continued on page 13

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IMMIGRATION

13

Arleigh Louison Fraud/ continued from page 12 the petitions, and did not authorize the statements made in the petitions Louison submitted to USCIS. The indictment also charges that Louison fabricated fee waiver petitions on behalf of these individuals without their knowledge."

Figeroux spoke on the pain and the devastation from Louison's fraud: "So, one of the pains that people suffer, a lot of people in Kings County, especially from the Caribbean, is the pain that they have after Arleigh Louison, who is now deceased. He defrauded people by submitting fraudulent immigration applications on their behalf. There were lies in those applications that persons were abused by their spouses, children, or others, which did not qualify them for immigration benefits."

Figeroux continued, "So, Arleigh Louison knew that you had pain. He was a notary, not a lawyer. Louison preyed on that pain and filed those fraudulent applications because he knew you would make bad decisions. You would make immoral decisions or Christian life decisions to have the ability to work in America. He also knew that you got to feed your children, wife, husband, and family back home. You need to send those barrels. He's aware of it. And by being aware of your pain and your need economically to survive, he took advantage of you. It doesn't matter what he

"So, one of the pains that people suffer, a lot of people in Kings County, especially from the Caribbean, is the pain that they have after Arleigh Louison, who is now deceased. He defrauded people by submitting fraudulent immigration applications on their behalf.”

- Brian Figeroux, Esq. said. You would sign those forms even though you didn't know what was written on the documents, which is what many persons who Arleigh Louison defrauded said. And there are other notaries in the community that do the same. In fact, some bad lawyers do the same. So, when you have pain, you also must be careful to who you disclose your pain, and you have to get a second or third consultation if you think what the person is saying is either illegal, immoral or will get you into trouble.

Problems for Victims/Clients of Arleigh Lousion Yes, Louison has since passed. However, he has left a carnage of victims facing deportation and many immigration issues. What does this mean? Since Arleigh Louison was arrested for immi-

gration fraud, the files of all his clients will be reviewed by the Immigration & Customs Enforcement agents (ICE).

Additionally, every single client will be served a Notice to Appear (NTA) and be interviewed by ICE agents with the sole purpose of seeking admission to initiate deportation proceedings. The NTA is the first step taken by the American government to remove an immigrant from the country.

Legal Assistance If you were a client of Louison, it is imperative that you consult with an AILA attorney and do not meet with ICE alone.

You should also seek the advice of more than one counsel. Get a case evaluation.

ASK THE LAWYER – call 855-7688845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us to schedule an appointment.l

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

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JOBS & RECESSION

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What Services Can a Paralegal Provide? trative hearing. However, if the case is appealed to a court, you'll have to find a lawyer to represent you.

BY THE CHAMBER COALITION

T

he legal profession includes many individuals who are not actually lawyers. This, however, doesn't mean that they cannot do any legal work. There are plenty of services that can be provided by a paralegal, and these services can make all the difference in your case.

Paralegals can perform substantive legal work that has been delegated to them by a lawyer. They often have a mix of work experience, education, and professional training that qualifies them for this job. Below are some of the services that you can request from a paralegal.

Preparation of Documents Have you ever wondered how a lawyer is able to show up to different court cases on the same day and still have all the documents they need? This is usually because they have a team of paralegals to whom they delegate this work.

Individuals in this profession are very good at preparing legal documents.

From briefs and contracts to agreements, paralegals have the knowledge and experience to get these documents ready in a short amount of time.

Providing Legal Information to a General Audience Paralegals can't offer legal advice to someone. However, they can provide legal information to a general audience.

There are many individuals around the country who are unaware of their legal rights in various situations. Employees, tenants, and other parties might be forced to endure certain conditions simply because they are unaware that the law is on their side.

A paralegal can be brought in to provide some legal information to such an audience so they are more aware of where the law stands when it comes to certain issues or how they can go about

getting legal aid if they need it.

Explaining Procedural Issues of Law Many people who have never been to court before will be surprised at how certain things are handled. You could spend a day getting ready to argue your case only for proceedings to be postponed. One reason for this is court procedures. There are many procedures that courts are required to follow and paralegals can explain these to you.

Representing Parties in Administrative Law Hearings An administrative agency can allow a paralegal to represent you at an adminis-

Rising Prestige As paralegals perform more complex and challenging work, paralegal prestige is rising. Paralegals are no longer simply lawyer's assistants; they assume corporate management roles, leadership roles in law firms, and entrepreneurial roles in independent paralegal businesses. Over the years, paralegals have transcended the image of glorified legal secretaries to become respected legal team members.

Ready to Take the Leap?

A career as a paralegal can be rewarding professionally and personally and offers a unique opportunity to help others; options vary, depending on the paralegal's practice area. Paralegals in the public interest sector help poor and disadvantaged segments of the population with legal issues ranging from protection from domestic abuse to assistance preparing wills. Ready to take the leap, the next step? Call us at 718-722-9217 or visit www.freeparalegal.org to complete your registration which includes payment.l

Orientation is Monday, July 18, 2022

Join us via Zoom at 6pm

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www.willsandestates.nyc

June 2022

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SPONSORED INSERT: Estate Planning

Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates

INSIDE: •Getting Your Documents in Order

•Do

You Need Extra Insurance?

•The

Importance of a Living Trust

•Updating

•Estate

Your Will

Planning for LGBQTIA+ Community

•Planning for Disabled Children

•Choosing

An Estate Attorney

•Taking

Inventory

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June 2022

www.willsandestates.nyc

2

SPONSORED INSERT: Estate Planning

Getting Your Documents In Order Do You

B

Need Extra Insurance?

Last Will and Testament Wills are the most well-known of these documents, providing an official road map for where your belongings will go. Beyond describing who will receive your assets, the last will and testament also designates a manager to settle your estate and a legal guardian for any minor children.

Otherwise, a court will make these appointments.

ftentimes, we think of every detail in advance of our unfortunate demise ... except paying for the final ceremony. You may assume that a life-insurance policy covers the cost of a funeral, but that’s not always the case — and these expenses can quickly add up.

In November 2021, the National Funeral Directors Association estimated that median costs had increased almost 7% over the past five years to $7,848. The price of cremation was going up faster still, at an increase of more than 11% to $6,970 over the same timeframe. Funeral insurance might provide your family with the peace of mind needed during an already-stressful moment.

uilding an estate plan requires a clearly marked paper trail so that your wishes can be followed.

Organizing everything beforehand ensures that these end-oflife allocations are doled out in a timely and fair manner. Here’s what you’ll need:

Power of Attorney Unfortunately, our deaths are sometimes preceded by lengthy illnesses.

A durable power of attorney ensures that your estate is cared for, even if you are incapacitated late in life. Your designee will make sure bills are paid, manage investments and attend to other daily responsibilities so that these things don’t become an issue in death. You can set up an immediate power of attorney, if you are have pending surgery or are facing wors-

O

ening health issues. A so-called “springing” power of attorney doesn’t become active until you are unable to handle your own affairs — but it isn’t available in all states.

Letter of Instruction This is not legally required, or in any way binding, but it might be a good idea. A letter of instruction provides larger context for your wishes, while also directing the executor and your remaining family to important paperwork and other belongings. For instance, you might outline where your safe-deposit box is located, along with the key and a list of all contents. Some choose to discuss preferences for funeral and burial, and the names of anyone else who

should be notified. Feel free to prepare this letter yourself, while an attorney should handle other necessary estate-planning documents.

Why It’s Important Legal documents provide a platform for your decisions to be heard. You won’t be around to protect your belongings, or justify your personal choices. This paperwork becomes your voice, while easing the responsibilities — and perhaps even the pain — for those left behind. Complex determinations about distribution of possessions and final issues with your finances will be fixed and approved, allowing everyone else to move on with grieving.p

Burial Insurance An unexpected funeral expense might arrive with other unresolved personal debts, added yet another burden for grieving loved ones.

Burial insurance can alleviate that worry. This works like a life insurance policy, but with a smaller benecontinued on page 3

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www.willsandestates.nyc

June 2022

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SPONSORED INSERT: Estate Planning

Importance of a Living Trust

Do You Need Extra Insurance?/ continued from page 2

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ost know how critical it is to create a last will and testament when estate pre-planning. Despite its name, however, a will isn’t the final document you need to ensure a smooth transferal of your earthly possessions to the next generation. Here’s a look at how a living trust smooths the way for the proper execution of your will.

How Trusts Work Without a living trust, you risk sending your surviving family members through a drawn-out legal proceeding known as probate. These hearings first determine whether a will is valid. They then turn their attention to locating and valuing a decedent’s assets. Any outstanding bills and tax debts are paid. Finally, probate hearings make a determination on distributing whatever remains to those who are named in your will. Living trusts streamline the process, proving for a designated family member or friend to manage your property. They can then quickly resolve these end-of-life issues.

Appointing Someone The very first requirement is finding an executor who you completely trust

to handle this important process in your absence. Your executor should also be someone who is mature enough to deal with a very difficult assignment. If you can’t find the right person — or if the intention is to leave out all direct beneficiaries — then you can name a representative from your bank or trust company to handle things.

Setting Them Up A person who you appoint handles everything that the court would slowly work its way through, transferring ownership to your intended beneficiaries and following any other instructions. Seek out the advice of an attorney who specializes in living trusts and wills, so that you can be assured that everything in these documents is legally binding. What if you change you mind? Living trusts

are revocable, as long as you’re deemed mentally competent.

Potential Problems There is one notable downside.

Living trusts are typically far more costly to set up than the average straight-forward will. In the long run, however, that additional cost will be worth it in your absence since your family won’t have to deal with probate. Be aware that some banks and mortgage companies require that any real estate be removed from the trust before refinancing. A pre-planning professional can walk you through the process. Also, be sure to name yourself and spouse as trustees in your living will, so you’ll remain in control of all assets before your death. your finances will be fixed and approved, allowing everyone else to move on with grieving.p

fit — generally ranging from about $10,000 to $25,000. Under most state laws, these policies must be secured through an insurance company agent or broker, according to the Insurance Information Institute. The benefit is immediately paid to your designated survivor and can be dispersed as they wish. That includes final arrangements, of course, but also the decedent’s bills like medical or credit-card debts, mortgages, and personal loans. Shop around, however, because rates can be different based on age, health conditions and other coverage.

Pre-Need Policies Even standard life insurance policies with a death benefit require that survivors take over planning the funeral. Pre-need policies ensure that all those details are handled in advance.

The difference between these policies continued on page 4

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SPONSORED INSERT: Estate Planning

Updating Your Will

Do You Need Extra Insurance?/ continued from page 3

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ills are designed to be ironclad documents that set forth how you want assets dispersed to loved ones.

They take the guesswork — or, in some sad cases, the arguments — out of a critical moment in this very emotional process. But they’re not ironclad at all.

In fact, there are several instances in which you should go back and update this document so that it doesn’t end up creating the very end-of-life problems you’re trying to avoid.

Marital Status If you get married after executing a will, you’ll need to add your new spouse as a beneficiary. Most states allow a spouse to receive their portion of an estate, even if a will is not in place. But securing that benefit can be a lengthy and difficult process.

Obviously, your will might also be changed if you get a divorce, since your spouse would typically no longer be a beneficiary. Spouses are also generally named as guardians for minor children and estate executors in wills, so those designations may also need to be updated when a marriage ends.

Tax Laws Work directly with a professional

estate planner when crafting this document, since they will have the most upto-date information on your will’s tax implications. But be aware that these laws change, and sometimes your final document has to be updated in order to remain in the appropriate legal standing. A legal representative should make periodic reviews of your will, with an eye toward updating things like estate-tax issues.

Adding a ‘P.S.’ If you’re only adding a small change after the will has been competed, you may choose to make what’s called a codicil — basically a legal “P.S.” to your will. An extra page is written, signed and witnessed, just as your original will was, then attached. After death, both documents are to be read and followed. More important chances should involve an entirely new will.

and burial insurance relates to the beneficiary. With the pre-need option, foreseen costs including the ceremony, burial or cremation are again paid — but directly to your selected provider, rather than to a designated family member or friend.

When deciding, look for policies that feature locked-in pricing, so your service costs will be fixed. Make sure the policy is transferable in the event you move or die elsewhere.

Financial Situation If you endure an economic downturn, it may be necessary to pay out less to your beneficiaries to make sure that the estate’s other obligations are still met in your absence. On the other hand, if you experience a notable financial uptick, you may want to increase the benefit for those you leave behind — or maybe even add a new beneficiary.

Ask for Advice A will is your ironclad way to disperse your assets to loved ones as you wish.

Don’t be afraid to ask your legal expert for advice on other moments that may benefit your last will and testament.

Remember, this document is incredibly important to keep accurate as it articulates your vision and solidifies your legacy.p

A Frank Discussion Whatever you choose, it’s important to have a frank discussion about your wishes in advance.

Talking about death is never easy, but the more your survivors understand your particular approach to funeral services, the easier it will be when the time comes. p

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SPONSORED INSERT: Estate Planning

June is Pride Month! Estate Planning for the LGBTQIA+ Community

BY LINDA NWOKE

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veryone needs proper estate planning, especially if you want to protect your assets and loved ones in the event of an illness or accident. For communities of people described according to their sexuality, physiological sex characteristics, and gender as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer/questioning, asexual, non-binary, and pansexual (LGBTQIA+), it is a critical document to have in place.

Studies indicate that non-heterosexual people encounter almost twice as much violence or abuse, such as mental, sexual, physical, or emotional, than their heterosexual counterparts.

Such discrimination and prejudice cause an additional layer of risk in addition to the social, biological, psychological, and environmental factors that often lead to anxiety, depression, and suicide in some instances.

Both real-life and research experiences have found that LGBTIQA+ people often have an increased risk of anxiety and depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harming, and engage in substance abuse Nevertheless, regardless of any individual's orientation, estate planning remains vital because of the numerous advantages of its power to reduce the probate process and its delays, expenses, and loss of privacy in some instances. An additional benefit includes the incorporation of business succession and charitable giving into an estate plan.

However, most life and estate planning issues fall within matters of state law. The state has rules that specify what happens to the individual, loved ones, and assets during their lifetime, incapacitation, and after death. Hence preparing a plan will ensure the execution of the person's wishes by people they trust.

However, for the LGBTQIA+ community, having their estate planned legally protects the individual against discrimination even when others are reluctant to recognize their preferences and relationships. For married couples and families, beyond permitting partners the right to make decisions, especially in a case of need for care of their loved ones if incapacitated, it also creates the mechanisms that financially provide for the partner in

the situation.

Impact of U.S Supreme Court Legalization of Same-Sex Marriages In 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court, in the case between Obergefell v.

Hodges, ruled and legalized same-sex marriages. The legislation stated that a valid same-sex marriage in one state must be recognized in all states.

Hence, creating opportunities for married lesbian and gay couples to benefit from the once-out-of-reach estate planning strategies. The historic legislation made same-sex marriage a fundamental constitutional right. It provided the union an opportunity to protect its interests in case of any eventuality.

The Supreme Court's decision to recognize same-sex marriages opened many previously unavailable tax savings and legal tools only available to "traditional" legally recognized marriages.

Married same-sex couples with proper estate planning documentation will receive all eligible state and federal benefits of marriage. Some federal benefits include an unlimited marital deduction for federal estate and gift taxes.

The federal government does not recognize non-marriage alternatives such as adults in civil unions and domestic partnerships. Thus, they will not receive these privileges.

Rather, such couples will likely receive partnership-based decisionmaking benefits and privileges, which require a different type of planning. This partnership is characterized, thus creating a possibility of the legal framework to protect the partners within the union.

Furthermore, unmarried same-sex couples who cannot receive maritalbased tax benefits can use other legal

mechanisms. They will ensure that partners within the relationship receive the legal right to inherit each other's assets.

In addition, they will also be able to make health care decisions for each other. However, their legal framework differs from that of a legally married couple.

The Importance of a 'Revocable Living Trust' for the LGBTQIA+ Community Many people think of a Trust as a fixed document owned by the rich to keep their children from wasting the family fortune. Instead, it is a very flexible, powerful, and valuable Life Planning document for anyone that desires it.

In the case of many LGBTQIA+, they rarely confine themselves to traditional family structures. Thus, their families often include ex-spouses, biological children with former legal spouses, parents, stepchildren, adopted children, siblings, "in-laws," and unrelated, chosen families.

While single LGBTQIA+ individuals can have their blood family or choose to form "chosen families" of friends and strong support communities. Thus, adopting a traditional "blood-related" family will exclude the most important people in their lives as LGBTQIA+ individuals.

The absence of a Trust can be tragic at worst for such a person, estranged from their family or relatives. The state will make decisions that ignore your partner, close family members, friends, and any cause that matters to you.

Therefore, life planning becomes essential, and the consideration of a Trust is valuable.

In an arrangement such as living together or marriage, a revocable liv-

ing trust authorizes the couple to appoint each other as trustees. It allows them to control their loved one's financial affairs if any becomes incapacitated.

Another instrument for managing the affairs of a loved one is a durable financial power of attorney.

However, the rules and requirements vary from state to state, making it necessary for review and reconfiguration if they relocate.

In New York, a healthcare power of attorney or healthcare proxy allows couples to appoint their partner to make necessary healthcare decisions on their behalf. It is considered essential for LGBTQIA+s in marital or cohabitation living arrangements.

Cases of Advance Healthcare Directive for the LGBTQIA+ Community In addition to a health care power of attorney or trustee, a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy authorization form is essential. This federal law-backed act protects and prevents the disclosure of sensitive patient health information without the patient's consent or knowledge.

The privacy authorization form permits healthcare professionals to disclose important health and medical records to a partner.

An existing and durable health care power of attorney can prevent biological family members' attempts to interfere with a partner's or spouse's ability to make medical decisions for their loved one. Therefore, the instrument can avoid interference from family.

The Importance of a 'Will' for the LGBTQIA+ Community with Minor Children A will is essential in several situations, especially where same-sex couples have children, and one of the parents is non-biological. The choice serves as a legal tool to address the guardianship of the minor children in the family. It is the only document that states children's control and identifies or names an executor. The absence of this instrument resulted in many custody battles over LGBTQIA+ parents' non-biological children among families due to the continued on page 6

ADMINISTERING & SETTLING ESTATES "The Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates was founded to serve our clients, but also to contribute to the greater good."

- Figeroux & Associates

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June 2022

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Choosing An Estate Attorney

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rganizing your estate can be overwhelming without the help of an expert. With the assistance of an estate planning attorney, you can discuss your vision for your assets before death. Don’t risk creating a plan that doesn’t specify your decisions to the exact details.

When searching for a specialized attorney, it’s important to chat with a few different experts in your area.

Make sure you feel comfortable in their office as the discussions of finances and final wishes can be intimate. Once you find several attorneys to interview for the role, here are some questions you should ask before deciding: How Long Have They Been Practicising Estate Planning Law? Many general attorneys will advertise that estate planning is a part of their practice. They can be a great help when creating legal documents like a will, health care directives and power of attorney. However, if your financial situation is more complicated, an experienced estate planning lawyer will have better knowledge of the ever-changing laws and know how to protect your legacy.

If your financial situation is more complicated, an experienced estate planning lawyer will have better knowledge of the ever-changing laws and know how to protect your legacy.

You should also know how long they have been in practice. Someone who has extensive experience in the industry has likely discovered flaws in previous cases and has learned how to correct them. Ensuring your final wishes are in good hands, is great peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

Do They Regularly Update Plans?

To stay on top of your estate, find an attorney who offers an updating and maintenance program. The service may cost more, but they will contact you throughout the year and discuss

new techniques, life-changing events which may impact your plans and alterations to laws.

Working with a lawyer who stays in contact with you about your estate plan ensures your documents will be up-to -date when it’s needed.

How Do They Charge?

Estate planning is necessary to prepare your family before your death.

Ask about the fees the attorney charges. During the interview, find out if he or she charges a fixed rate or hourly. You don’t want to be surprised with unexpected fees. p

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The LGBTQIA+ Community/ continued from page 5

death or incapacity of their biological parents.

Over time, several studies show that the LGBTQIA+ community often lags in having a revocable living trust or will in place. This document is critical for non-married LGBTQ+ people in a committed relationship. The State law, which often takes precedence in such cases, will, by default, grant rights to biological family members without legal documents to state otherwise.

In another instance, if one of the partners is in a legal union before marriage, the partner is subject to the patchwork of previous state laws.

There is the possibility of unintended consequences for new estate planning.

Before 2015, some gay and lesbian couples who got married in states that recognized their marriage but later moved believed their marriage was non-binding in the states that did not recognize same-sex marriage.

These couples may split up without legally dissolving their marriage.

However, some states will automatically convert registered civil unions or domestic partnerships into legal marriages.

Consequently, there are now LGBTQIA+ people who are married and unaware that they are open to the possibility of future claims against their estate from a previous marriage. It is pertinent that previous LGBT relationship structures must be addressed before finalizing one's estate plan.

Ensure that previous legal arrangements, civil unions, and domestic partnerships are resolved and dissolved to protect against such eventualities.

Ultimately, specific issues unique to the LGBTQIA+ community make planning more complex. This article is a summary to encourage LGBTQIA+ communities to consider estate planning's contribution to creating a Life Plan that brings clarity, authority, ease, and peace of mind to daily affairs.

Legal Help If you have questions regarding the inheritance of your property, who can make decisions for you if you're unable to, and who you would like to care for your children should the need arise, call the experienced professionals at the Law Office of Figeroux & Associates. To schedule an appointment, call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.usp

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Planning for a Disabled Child

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state pre-planning should be an important part of everyone’s financial regimen, but this process becomes even more important when you have a child with disabilities.

A lot of factors go into creating a uniquely designed plan, depending on their unique personal challenges and whether they are a minor or adult. The goal is to help your special-needs child continue to lead an enriching, happy life even in your absence.

A Lifetime of Care The larger goal of special-needs planning is to preserve public aid while also supplementing your child’s care.

There are additional benefits to taking care of this right away: If plans are put in place while you’re still alive, the estate avoids probate.

Others interested parties, like their grandparents, can contribute to a trust. Named co-trustees can also get hands-on experience in helping with childcare and administering the guardianship. Depending on the child’s capability, this money-management program may be critically important since it will be the only

their lifetime. Parents or guardians should name the trust as a beneficiary in their will, according to the American Bar Association, instead of the child. Many public-aid options are designed to be resource dependent, meaning recipients aren’t eligible if they have access to a certain amount of money. These trusts allow for an inheritance without endangering aid provided by Medicaid, SSI or other government programs because assets held in trust are not directly available to the child. Funds from life-insurance policies, IRAs and retirement plans can also be directed to the trust, and the child still has access to other programs. future path to protecting eligibility for benefits. It will provide additional funds for a broader scope of care and create a financial resource should benefits become restricted or end all together.

Special-Needs Trust Children are at particular risk if they are unable to live independently after the death of a parent of guardian. A special-needs trust can ensure that they are provided with needed resources and care over the course of

Designating a Caretaker Beyond the obvious financial considerations, parents and guardians must select a designated caretaker to look after their special-needs child — or to manage their care, if the child is in an assisted-living environment. Work with an attorney who specializes in estate planning in order to create both a trust and this succession plan, since states have differing regulations and laws regarding who may serve as a legal guardian.p

Giving New Life to Others

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e have the option to leave behind more than our personal assets upon death. In fact, you could actually give new life to others through the donation of healthy organs or tissue. This provides an opportunity to broaden your legacy beyond your family and immediate friends, potentially impacting the health and happiness of a host of thankful strangers. Here’s how you can make a difference through organ and tissue donation. continued on page 8

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SPONSORED INSERT: Estate Planning

Taking Inventory

Giving Life to Others/ continued from page 7 Who is Eligible?

All legal citizens of the United States may donate organs at the time of their death (and, in some cases, during their respective lifetimes, as well). Certain diseases and conditions may disqualify otherwise eligible donors, including cancer, HIV or other systemic infections. At the same time, however, organs that are unaffected by these issues could still be accepted.

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ver time, we all end up collecting things. Some are cherished heirlooms, while others are simply personal mementos.

Some items might be intended to be part of an inheritance, while others are to be donated. A will delineates where it all goes. But first, someone has to find it all. That’s why creating an inventory of your belongings is so important.

Personal Items These inventories help ensure that your will can be quickly executed.

But the list also helps you formulate an idea of the estate’s overall worth.

Household staples like furniture, jewelry, televisions and other expensive items will immediately come to mind.

But it’s best to go room to room, making a detailed list of everything and its estimated worth. Most people remember to catalog the car, but don’t forget other outdoor items like power tools and lawn equipment.

An appraisal may be needed for certain collectibles; there may be a hidden treasure inside your home. You typically should only list belongings that are valued at more than $100, but

this itemizing process can also reveal a list of more personal things that might make for a meaningful gift to loved ones.

All of those should be listed, no matter their value.

Financial Holdings Now that you’ve cataloged all the belongings inside your home, itemize all non-physical assets. List all bank accounts, whether held jointly or separately, as well as 401(k) plans, lifeinsurance policies, IRAs, stocks and bonds, and any insurance policies.

(That should include homeowners, auto and health.) A qualified financial advisor can help you define the worth of these inventoried items.

Dealing with Debt You’ve defined your assets, now it’s time to account for personal debt.

Those responsibilities don’t go away, though they occasionally can be partially forgiven. List any outstanding bills, including mortgages or car notes, credit cards and medical bills.

Non-married family members don’t have to pay these debts with their own money, but their deceased relative’s estate may be liquidated to meet the obligations. An executor manages that process. Spouses can be held personally responsible for cosigned obligations, or if they live in community-property states. Any leftover bills after estate finances have been depleted usually go unpaid. p

Talk it Over Like most end-of-life decisions, deciding to donate your organs upon death is a deeply personal choice.

Still, it’s best to have a frank discussion about it with your friends and family, so that they’ll be aware of your wishes.

How to Register The process couldn’t be any easier.

From home, visit the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration website and fill out a simple form. If you’d prefer to go through this process in person, representatives are available at any local Department of Motor Vehicles. p

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