Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 180

NY Schools Most Segregated in the US; Black and Brown Kids Should Attend Charter Schools

BY LINDA NWOKE

In 2014, the Civil Rights Project at UCLA reported that New York State was the most segregated state in the nation for Black students. The problem persists. In an updated analysis using 2018 data, a new report released in June 2022 from the Civil Rights Project finds that New York retains its place as the most segregated state for black students and second most segregated for Latino students, trailing only California. In 2018

in New York, 90% of black students attended predominantly nonwhite schools, while Latino enrollment in predominantly nonwhite schools has remained roughly stable (84%). Almost two out of three black and over half Latino students attend intensely segregated schools, where less than 10% of student enrollment is white.

Every child deserves an education, yet it is more critical for children from black and brown communities than others

continued on page 4

Public Transportation and Bus Accidents ....22

A Conversation With Congresswoman Yvette Clarke On Immigration

BY CAW EDITORIAL TEAM

New York politician and House of Representatives member for District 9, Yvette Clarke, is a Democratic member who strongly advocates for comprehensive immigration reform and policies that support immigrant communities. As the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, Congresswoman Clarke personally understands immigrants' contributions

to American society and the numerous struggles they confront.

Despite the contributions of many immigrants, the immigration system continues to work against them, forcing numerous immigrants to live in the shadows and be unable to contribute to society fully.

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke remains a strong advocate for several policies, including efforts to provide a

continued on page 13

Caribbean Consulates

Anguilla

845 Third Avenue

New York, N.Y. 10022

Tel: 212-745-0200

Antigua & Barbuda

305 East 47th Street, Suite 6A

New York, N.Y. 10020

Tel: 212-541-4117

The Bahamas

231 East 46th Street New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-421-6420

Barbados

820 Second Avenue, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-551-4325

Belize

675 Third Avenue, Suite 1911 New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-593-0999

Dominica

685 Third Avenue, 11th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-949-0853

Dominican Republic

1500 Broadway, Suite 410 New York, N.Y. 10036

Tel: 212-599-8478

Grenada

685 Third Avenue, Suite 1101 New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-599-0301

Guyana

308 West 38th Street New York, N.Y. 10018

Tel: 212-947-5119

Haiti 555 5th Ave 3rd Floor New York, NY 10017

Tel: 212-697-9767

Jamaica

767 Third Avenue, 2nd Floor New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-935-9000

Martinique 444 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor New York, N.Y. 10022

Tel: 212-838-6887

Montserrat 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022

Tel: 212-745-0200

Panama 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 20th Floor New York, N.Y. 10036

Tel: 212-840-2450

St. Kitts & Nevis 414 East 75th Street, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10021

Tel: 212-535-5521

Autonomous Weapons A Real And Urgent Danger To People

BY SIR RONALD SANDERS

As if small states, with limited financial and human resources to safeguard their societies, do not confront enough grave challenges, along comes the phenomenon of “autonomous weapons” – probably the most frightening technological development that has yet been created.

Why should small states be concerned?

They should already be deeply troubled by the increase in violence in their societies, including the escalation of homicides, caused by the expanded number of conventional weapons being brought into their territories by organized criminals.

There is now hardly any country that is not experiencing gangs, gang violence, armed robberies, rapes, drive-by shootings and murder. In almost every case, illegal guns are used.

Autonomous weapons in the hands of organized criminals would raise the problem of murders, assassinations, and even targeted destruction to new and frightening heights. For instance, it is now possible to enter facial recognition into a drone equipped to shoot to kill. The drone can then sift images of persons over whom it flies, select a body it believes matches the face, and shoot the person, flying away undetected.

These autonomous weapons are not re stricted to drones. They come in a variety of forms including robots, programmed for warfare. They can also be devices which are planted in built-up areas, for instance, and programmed to detonate from great distances.

Imagining the use to which such autonomous weapons could be put by criminals, or even by mentally troubled persons, should terrify everyone, especially law enforcement agencies such as the Police, and agencies concerned with fighting drug trafficking, people trafficking and other forms of crime.

All this is good reason why small states in the Caribbean and everywhere should immediately join the growing international movement to prohibit and regulate autonomous weapons systems.

But, given their own peculiar circumstances of small size, limited human and financial resources, escalating crime and the fearful prospect of autonomous weapons in the hands of criminals, small states should consider banning such weapons now, even ahead of any international convention which will take years to negotiate and agree, and which, like many other treaties, would be unlikely to take account of the circumstances of small states.

tion, convened a Conference which was attended by many countries from Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as officials from 13 other nations, including France, Germany, Japan, Nigeria, Russia, and the United States.

From this conference, a Communique was issued, calling for collaboration to promote the urgent negotiation of an international legally binding instrument, with prohibitions and regulations governing autonomous weapons, and which would take account of International Humanitarian Law, and ethical perspectives, as well as the prevention of the social and humanitarian impact that autonomy in weapons systems entail.

The adoption of this Communique was an important first step, but it lacked sufficient high-level political participation. Consequently, the political decisionmakers and legislators are not yet adequately informed of the enormous dangers posed by autonomous weapons. In this regard, the media has a role to play in researching, analyzing and reporting on the urgency of this issue, helping to inform decision-makers and the general public in their countries.

Several governments, around the world, are heavily investing in the military applications of autonomous weapons, which are part of the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. Among these countries are China, India, Iran, Israel, Russia, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Indeed, weapons systems with autonomous functions are already being used in Ukraine and other conflicts.

These countries are unlikely to stop their use of these weapons, and like most other weapons developed for military use, they will be bought and abused by criminals and others for criminal purposes, beyond the capacity of law enforcement agencies.

So far, the pleas of many significant international figures to legislate against these weapons have been ignored. Among these persons are the Pope; Ban-Ki-Moon, the former UN Secretary-General, and the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions.

of engineers, AI and robotics experts, and other scientists and researchers from thirty-seven countries. They have issued the “Scientists' Call to Ban Autonomous Lethal Robots”, in which they insist that “decisions about the application of violent force must not be delegated to machines.”

Groups arguing for legally binding instruments to maintain human control over these weapons, have stressed that” a fundamental condition of international humanitarian law, requires that some person must be held responsible for civilian deaths. Any weapon or other means of war that makes it impossible to identify responsibility for the casualties it causes does not meet the requirements of jus in bello (the right conduct in war) and, therefore, should not be employed in war.”

If, in war, there is a limitation on accountability and who could be brought to justice, in the day-to-day lives of ordinary citizens, the use of such weapons to kill or destroy, is even worse. Anonymity of the person, responsible for death or destruction through the use of autonomous weapons, could put them beyond the reach of the justice system and fling the doors wide open to anarchy. Nearly 70 countries now openly support a new legal framework to govern and regulate autonomy in weapons systems. But waiting for international treaties to be negotiated does not stop small states from acting within their own jurisdictions to adopt laws, prohibiting the importation and use of autonomous weapons and applying stiff penalties for violations.

The issue is real, and it is now.l

Tel: 212-687-4981

The government of Costa Rica, in Central America, should be congratulated for the leadership it is providing in alerting nations and their law enforcement agencies to the real and present danger of autonomous weapons. Last February, the government of Costa Rica and a local non-governmental organiza-

So far, the pleas of many significant international figures to legislate against these weapons have been ignored. Among these persons are the Pope; BanKi-Moon, the former UN SecretaryGeneral, and the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions.

Perhaps the pre-eminent group to which the world should be listening is a group

Sir Ronald Michael Sanders KCMG KCN AM is currently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United States of America and the Organization of American States (since 2015) and non-resident High Commissioner to Canada (since 2017) for Antigua and Barbuda. Writer. Before taking up this appointment in 2015, he was a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London in the UK and a Senior Fellow at Massey College, University of Toronto.

A Proclamation on National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2023

BY PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN

During Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we celebrate the achievements and dreams of the millions of people of Caribbean origin now living in the United States while honoring the shared history of joy and perseverance that has united and enriched life across our region for centuries.

There is no single Caribbean American identity. The mix of cultures, languages, and religions alive across the United States and the islands reflects the diversity of spirit that defines the American story. Meanwhile, our countries are bound by common values and a shared history — overcoming the yoke of colonialism, confronting the original sin of slavery, and charting new opportunities across borders and generations.

Since our founding, Caribbean Americans from Alexander Hamilton to Colin Powell have contributed to the United States in the most profound ways. Today, pathbreakers like Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor continue advancing our work toward a more perfect Union. I am especially proud of the extraordinary leaders of Caribbean heritage now serving in my Administrationfrom Vice President Kamala Harris to Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, and White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. And I take equal pride in the generations of Caribbean Americans who literally built this country — bringing tremendous hope and energy to bear as small business owners, teachers, health care workers, military service members, union organizers, community leaders, and so much more.

For too long, too many have faced systemic barriers to success. As President, I have issued two separate Executive Orders to change that, pushing to advance racial justice across every policy that my Administration pursues. As we have passed historic laws to rebuild our Nation’s infrastructure, lower prescription drug costs, create a clean energy economy, and transform American manufacturing to once again lead the world, we

have done so with an eye for equity, rebuilding our economy from the middle out and bottom up. As a result, we have created 12.7 million jobs — bringing Black and Latino unemployment to record lows — and we have helped millions to start and grow their own businesses. At the same time, we are using all the tools we have to make our Nation’s broken immigration system as orderly, safe, and humane as possible, sending support to the border while expanding lawful pathways for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans — among others — to come to the United States without taking the dangerous journey to our southern border. What we really need is for the Congress to finally pass comprehensive immigration reform, including a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, farm and essential workers, and temporary status holders, many of whom are from the Caribbean. I will not quit pressing the Congress to act. Beyond our borders, we are working with our Caribbean partners to expand opportunity and keep the region safe so more of our neighbors can build lives at home. We partnered with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in November 2022 to launch the Crime Gun Intelligence Unit and disrupt firearms trafficking in the region. We are also working to improve access to development financing and advance clean energy projects across the Caribbean through the

United States-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030.

A central promise of this country is the idea that everyone is created equal and deserves to be treated equally throughout their lives. It is a cornerstone of our common heritage in this hemisphere, even as we keep striving to finally make that vision real. Caribbean-American Heritage Month is a chance to celebrate the rich diversity that covenant has brought us and to renew its promise for future generations of Caribbean Americans and for us all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2023 as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. I encourage all Americans to join in celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of Caribbean Americans with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-seventh. l

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

TEAM

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. —Hosea 4:6

Publisher

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

JR Holguin

Chris Tobias

Email info@myiqinc.com

Telephone 718-771-0988

Website www.cawnyc.com

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) will observe its 42nd Anniversary on June 18, 2023, under the theme ‘Vision.Integration.Sustainability. Progress.’ In commemoration of this milestone, the OECS Commission will celebrate with a calendar of activities throughout the month of June.

EDUCATION

Charter Schools/

continued from page 1

because they are more likely to live in poverty, attend underfunded and understaffed schools, and be more likely to be expelled or suspended from school. In 2020, over 20% of black and 18% of Hispanic children lived in poverty, compared to 7% of white children, while in 2018–2019, black students were sent out of school three times more than white students.

Yet education remains a crucial strategy to help black and brown children overcome challenges, grow to their full potential, and contribute to their communities.

Educational Disparities Faced by Black and Brown Children

Data consistently shows a persistent achievement gap between public school students from black and brown communities and their white counterparts. For instance, in 2019, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) test scores revealed a significant gap in test scores between ethnic and racial groups. According to the report, while 35% of white students scored proficiently, only 13% of black and 19% of Hispanic students achieved proficiency in 8th-grade math.

A related study by the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights reveals that black students are disproportionately suspended and expelled compared to their white counterparts, starting as early as preschool and at a higher rate.

Disparities

Several factors contribute to the disparities in public schools, many are systemic, and they affect many black and brown students. For instance, school funding is a significant challenge many schools in black and brown communities face because they are mostly underfunded, which results in difficulty in providing students with a quality education.

Secondly, many schools in minority communities have fewer experienced and qualified teachers. They are also unable to discipline the students, leading to a high level of suspension among black and brown students compared to white students, even if the latter group commits the same offenses.

Additionally, the curriculum used in black and brown communities' schools is

experiences. Furthermore, minority students are likelier to attend schools segregated by race and poverty.

Most of these disparities contribute to adverse long-term academic outcomes and limited future opportunities for children from these minority groups.

Charter Schools as a Potential Solution

Charter schools play a significant role in the education system. Remarkably, they contribute to the diversification of the educational system by offering an alternative to traditional public schools. They are private organizations governed by separate rules and regulations. Their mission is to provide innovative approaches to quality education for underserved students. One of their critical assets is the

freedom to explore new teaching curricula and methods of delivery.

Yet, they have remained controversial, especially in New York, since their inception in 1998, with numerous arguments for and against their existence. While some believe they are a valuable alternative to traditional public schools, others believe they drain public resources and deter students from attending the best public schools.

Those supporting charter schools argue that they positively impact their children's achievement even though they are more rigorous. Specifically, their existence provides an alternative option for parents to choose from. Moreover, they are more innovative in their teaching approach and generally more accountable than traditional public schools. However, some opponents of the option argue against all the positive points linked to its existence. For instance, they believe that despite the rigor of the approach, it does not necessarily positively impact students' achievement. Furthermore, they maintain the age-old argument that charter schools prevent public schools from getting the resources that traditional public schools require to cater to a larger population of students. They also argue that they do not undergo the same level of accountability screening and tend to be elitist in approach, causing segregation in the public school system.

For instance, one of the famous charter schools in New York City, Success

continued on page 5

EDUCATION

Charter Schools/

continued from page 4

Academy Charter School Network, which operates over 49 schools, has battled numerous negative feedback on its inability to handle kids under 10 with unique struggles adequately. According to analytical reports from The City and ProPublica based on NYPD data, the school called 911 on kids under ten between July 2016 and 2022 more than 85 times to help them manage a couple of the kids with disruptive behavior and exhibited some distress.

Such controversial issues surrounding charter schools in New York will likely continue because of the presenting facts and evidence for and against the arguments. Some of these are worth considering and discussing before concluding because of the far-reaching effect of these decisions. For instance, while charter schools receive funding from the state, it is established that funding per student in these schools is less than what is given in traditional public schools. They argue that charter schools are not obligated to provide their students with certain levels of specialized services, transportation, and special education.

Some charter schools are more handson in managing children and parents that fall outside the continuum, and they are also often located in 'safe or "normal" neighborhoods than traditional public schools. This is because charter schools often result from dissatisfied parents unhappy with their local public schools. The controversy surrounding charter

schools is complex, and there is no easy answer. It is essential to weigh all the evidence before forming an opinion.

Charter Schools and Ways of Addressing Needs of Black and Brown Students

As of the time of this report, findings show that by the 2022–23 school year, New York will have over 340 charter schools in operation, serving over 170,000 students.

Most schools offer smaller class sizes and personalized learning, focusing on building a student's area of academic deficiency with a significant amount of parental involvement. This combined approach results in improved educational outcomes.

Some other ways they address the specific needs of black and brown children

include recruiting and retaining teachers of color who look like and understand the experiences of black and brown students. They also serve as positive role models in the classroom for the students. They also provide culturally relevant curricula relevant to their experiences as students and mentorship and community engagement programs that are culturally responsive, leading to improved academic achievement, self-esteem, and empowerment.

In NYC, some of the charter schools with the highest number of black and brown student enrollments based on their websites are Success Academy Harlem (98%), Success Academy Bronx 2 (97%), Success Academy Brooklyn 1 (96%), KIPP NYC College Prep (95%), Uncommon Schools Harlem Village Academy (94%), Achievement First Harlem (93%), Democracy Prep Harlem (92%), School for Social Justice (91%), and Urban Assembly Academy for Young Writers (90%).

Parents Want More Charter Schools

According to a new poll, signs indicate that parents strongly support charter schools — and want Gov. Kathy Hochul and Albany lawmakers to raise the stateimposed cap and open more publicly funded alternatives as an option for their kids. The online Morning Consult survey conducted for the pro-school choice Democrats for Education Reform (DFER-NY) concluded that 64% of parents favor charter schools. In comparison, only 22% have an unfavorable view,

with the remainder undecided or having no opinion.

Even with strong parental support, Hochul and Democrats who control the state legislature and have close ties to the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), the anti-charter teachers’ union, have refused to raise the state-imposed cap, leaving about a dozen proposed schools in limbo.

On May 23, Assemblymember Brian Cunningham, District 43 in Brooklyn, sponsored Assembly Bill A7500 that would grant priority to charter school applicants with a board of trustees and school administrators of at least fifty-one percent minority group members. AM Cunningham had previously told the press, “This is a war on making sure our families have choices, that our parents can choose where they want to send their kids.”

Policy Changes to Enhance

Performance of Charter Schools for Black and Brown Students

Specific steps to improve the performance of charter schools for minority students include increasing funding for charter schools to provide students with resources and enhance the quality of education. Secondly, it is essential to introduce policies that will reform admission into charter schools, such as adopting admission policies that are fair, equitable, and non-discriminatory against black and brown students. This will ensure all students have an equal opportunity to attend a charter school. l

AM Brian Cunningham. Photo: NYS Assembly

Summer in New York City: Let’s Get Outside

BY MAYOR ERIC ADAMS

The flowers are blooming, the weather is warming up, and it’s starting to feel a lot like summer in New York City. It’s a great time to get outside, go for a run or walk, or just breathe in the fresh air. Summer also means that I get to do my favorite thing as Mayor: get on a Citi Bike and enjoy the outdoors with my fellow New Yorkers.

This year, we are making improvements to your experience in your neighborhood and across the five boroughs. This summer alone, 72 of our parks are getting improvements: from renovated playgrounds to new skateparks, and cleaner spaces for everyone. We will have 240 new city employees dedicated to cleaning parks, removing graffiti, and helping to take out trash at our city’s most popular parks during peak use hours. That means no more overflowing garbage cans — and no more rats. I hate them, you hate them, and as we welcome New Yorkers to our parks this summer, we are going to send rats packing. For parents and families, we are hosting

over 300 Movies Under the Stars screenings in parks in all five boroughs. Grab your popcorn and curl up on a blanket with family and friends to take in classic films and popular movies on the big screen, all for free.

We are investing in more activities at our parks and playgrounds. That includes Kids in Motion, which is hosting New York City children at 50 playgrounds across the city to get in shape and have fun. We will also have free classes for children to learn about nature and their environment. To find out more about programming in a park near you, visit https://www.nycgovparks.org/.

And if you prefer indoor activity, we are expanding the hours at nine of our city’s recreation centers. That means more opportunities for New Yorkers to play sports, swim, dance, and lift weights at recreation centers on nights and weekends.

We are also opening up streets across the city as part of our Open Streets program. You can step right outside your door to enjoy food, games, music, and more with friends and neighbors. This summer, Open Streets is expanding to

160 locations across the city. We also added over 400,000 square feet of permanent new pedestrian space in 2022, including six new pedestrian plazas. Street space is for everybody, and with Open Streets and new pedestrian spaces, it has never been safer or easier to enjoy your neighborhood.

This is the time to take advantage of all New York City has to offer. From live concerts to food festivals, outdoor markets, and Broadway performances, there

is something for everyone. Check out https://www.nycgo.com/things-to-do/ to find events. I look forward to seeing you out there.l

Eric Adams is the 110th mayor of New York City since January 1, 2022. He served in the New York State Senate from 2006 to 2013, representing the 20th Senate district in Brooklyn. In November 2013, Adams was elected Brooklyn Borough President, the first African-American to hold the position, and reelected in November 2017.

BE EQUITY SMART

Did You Know: Single Women Are Buying Homes Faster Than Single Men - Here's Why

BY EQUITY SMART REALTY INC

With low interest rates and uncertainty as to where the real estate market will be in the next six months, many people are opting into ownership and investing in a home. Interestingly, according to the National Association of Realtors, approximately 17 percent of homebuyers in the United States last year were women, which is a much higher percentage than the 7 percent of single men who invested in a home. While the statistics may be interesting enough on their own, here are some of the reasons why women may be opting in.

Single Parent Security

The numbers don't lie, and it's a fact that there are a much higher number of single mothers in the United States than fathers, which makes home ownership that much more of a benefit. With low interest rates, it's common sense that many single mothers will be flocking towards the housing market to find stable housing for their family in a market that may fluctuate in the coming months.

Making A Lifestyle Choice

The days are long gone of women having to invest in a home when they get married, and for many women being single is a very popular lifestyle choice. This means that many single ladies are choosing to invest on their own terms and at their own time so that they can reap the benefits of home ownership. As Jessica

Lautz of the National Association of Realtors says, "They really value home ownership, and they're willing to give up a lot to have a home of their own."

It's In The Numbers

There are certainly more than a few reasons why single women are flocking to the real estate market, but demographics are changing rapidly. While it was once the case that most people were married, or would marry, more single women are opting out of marriage and opening up a wider market for single-person home purchases. Given the low interest rates and the increasing number of women choosing to be single, purchasing a home offers a solid bet and a financial boon.

Guidance

With a home offering up the benefit of security and the advantage of being a good financial choice, it's no surprise that increasingly women are turning to home ownership on their own. If you're contemplating purchasing a home of your own, you may want to contact one of our real estate professionals for more information. Call 888-670-6791.l

Getting Your Financial House in Order: The Three Essential Elements of an Estate Plan

BY PEARL PHILLIP

If there is one gift you can give to those you love, it is getting your financial house in order. A comprehensive estate plan is vitally important, yet many put it off until it is too late.

You may not realize you already have an estate plan, but it differs from what you intended. If you fail to create a comprehensive plan for your estate and assets, the state will do it for you - and the people you love may not be happy with the results.

Why not make this the year you finally create that estate plan? It may not be a pleasant subject, but life and death are unpredictable. Knowing that you have a written plan for your estate will give you and the people you love the peace of mind, and here are the essential elements that the plan should include.

A Written Will

A written will is the cornerstone of any comprehensive estate plan and is generally the best place to start. If you do not yet have a will in place, contact an attorney and get one put together.

You will want to prepare for the meeting with the attorney, bringing as much documentation as possible about your assets and their desired disposition. If you are working with an estate planning law firm, you can complete the other elements of your plan when drawing up

your will, simplifying the process and reducing the time the whole thing takes.

A Durable Power of Attorney

The next essential element of your estate plan is the durable power of attorney.

You may not want to think about it, but deciding who can make decisions for you if you become disabled is very important, both for your well-being and that of your overburdened family members.

Once the durable power of attorney is in place, the person you name will be empowered to make critical decisions if you become disabled or cannot communicate. Hopefully, this part of your estate plan will never kick into place, but having it established will help you breathe easier.

A Living Will

The third and final part of your compre-

hensive estate plan is a living will, which is vitally important. Medical advances have allowed patients to live longer, but not always better, lives, and it is crucial to think about what you want the medical authorities to do - and not do.

Would you want to be kept alive on a ventilator? Do you prefer robust life support or a more natural approach to death? Again these are not pleasant subjects, but they are important. The purpose of the living will is to lay out your wishes, removing any ambiguity and making it easier for your loved ones to make critical decisions on your behalf.

A comprehensive written estate plan is essential in preparing for your future. You might not want to think about it, but the estate plan you create will need to go into effect someday, and the sooner you lay it all out, the sooner you can get on with living your life to the fullest. p

Study Finds 1 in 4 Americans Recognize a Greater Need For Estate Planning Due to Inflation

Caring.com, a leading senior living referral service and the nation’s top site for senior care reviews, published its annual Wills & Estate Planning Study that explores the prevalence of estate planning in the U.S. and the reasons Americans do or do not engage in this end-of-life planning process. In the 2023 survey, responses from over 2,400 American adults indicated that only 34% have a will – albeit an increase of 3% since 2022 and 6% since 2020.

The study, which highlights the differences in attitudes towards estate planning among various age, socioeconomic and racial groups, found that inflation has had a disproportionately larger impact on younger Americans’ views of estate planning. While 54% of young Americans (ages 18 to 34) say inflation changed their views on estate planning, only 32% of Americans ages 55 and older say their views changed.

Likewise, 35% of Black Americans say inflation changed their views on estate planning, compared to only 27% of Hispanic Americans and 25% of White Americans. Overall, 26% of all American adults now see a greater need to establish an estate plan due to inflation.

While many see a greater need for endof-life planning, certain demographics

continued on page 4

Health Care Directives: What You Need to Know

When you become too frail or sick to make your own decisions on end-of-life health care, the emotional strain is passed on to your family or loved ones. Not only can this cause incredible stress, but the avenue they take may not be the route you had in mind. Be open and honest about your final wishes.

Don’t procrastinate when creating an advance care plan. Age isn’t the only factor that should be considered. A medical crisis that leaves you too ill to make your own decisions could strike at any time.

Emergency Treatment

Without a solid health care directive in place, family members may be tasked with making difficult decisions for your treatment. Here are a few common instances you must have clear and legal instructions regarding, as suggested by the National Institute on Aging: • CPR: If your heart begins beating with an abnormal rhythm, it can be life- threatening. Discuss with your family your opinions about resuscitation so they can determine if CPR should be administered.

• Ventilator: When you are unable to breathe on your own, a ventilator can be used to keep you alive. It usually includes a tube which is connected to your trachea to ensure you’re receiving enough oxygen.

• Comfort Care: Deciding how to keep you comfortable while suffering is another factor you should have clear instructions for. Consider instances like limiting medical testing, spiritual and emotional counseling, and pain medication.

Choosing an Estate Attorney

Organizing 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.

If your loved one was neglected or abused in a Nursing Home or assisted living facility, financial compensation may be available.

Call 855-768-8845 for a consultation

One in six residents in nursing homes and community facilties were neglected last year resulting in thousands of families experiencing trauma, mental illness, medical emergencies, and even death. Nursing home abuse and neglect is real.

Has your loved one experienced any of these or other types of abuse?

•Bedsores

•Choking/Death

•Falls

•Fractured Bones

•Infections

•Improper Treatment/Medication

•Malnutrition/Dehydration

•Respiratory Illness

•Sexual Abuse

•Sexual Assault

Experience matters. The lawyer you hire does make a difference. Schedule a consultation now. Get compensation for your loved one’s suffering. Call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us

Types of Facilities

Visit different facilities to make the decision on where you will stay if you become disabled to the point you can’t take care of yourself. It’s important to have a plan for different stages of life. Here are a few to consider:

If you require minimal assistance to live your day-to-day life, an assisted living community is a great option. You have the freedom to reside in your own space yet receive help in areas like laundry services, prepared meals and personal care.

A nursing home is a better option when you need constant assistance from medical professionals. Here, you can receive 24-hour supervision and help with daily necessities like bathing, grooming and medical management.

In-home care is a great option for someone who wants to stay at home while receiving the same benefits as an assisted-living facility. While it can be expensive to call on medical professionals to come to your home, it is a very comfortable option for those needing help.

What Happens If You Do Not Have An Advance Directive?

If you do not have an advance directive and you are unable to make decisions on your own, the state laws where you live will determine who may make medical decisions on your behalf. This is typically your spouse, your parents if they are available, or your children if they are adults. If you are unmarried and have not named your partner as your proxy, it’s possible they could be excluded from decision-making. If you have no family members, some states allow a close friend who is familiar with your values to help. Or they may assign a physician to represent your best interests.

Legal Help

Think of your advance directives as living documents that you review at least once each year and update if a major life event occurs.

If you have questions regarding health care directives, call the experienced professionals at the Law Office of Figeroux & Associates. To schedule an appointment, call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us p

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 Practicing 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 knows 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-todate when they’re 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 the fee is a fixed rate or hourly. You don’t want to be surprised with unexpected fees.

Ready to start your estate planning? call the experienced professionals at the Law Office of Figeroux & Associates. To schedule an appointment, call 855-7688845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us p

Planning Succession for Your Business

Succession planning involves creating a plan for someone to either own or run your business after you retire, become disabled, or die. In simple terms, succession planning is the process of passing control of the business to others. Here are some steps to take for succession planning:

Find Successor

If you are passing the business to a family member, you may consider transferring ownership through your estate planning process. Often, however, new management comes from your pool of existing employees. If you have a larger business (such as an LLC or a corporation), succession planning involves preparing people for management and leadership roles in order to replace you or other managers when the time arises. Finding your replacement is difficult so plan ahead, it is best to start early. Leaders are not always easy to find and it takes time to mentor someone into a management role. You will need to identify potential successors in your family or among employees. You can hire from outside the company, but it’s helpful to groom someone already in your business, over a period of time, so the transi-

tion to new leadership will be smooth.

Train Successor

Once you have successors identified, deliberately create a training plan to ensure that everyone involved has time to learn the skills, gather the information, and practice the leadership roles critical to the future success of the business. Whether you are transferring a business to a family member or you are promoting

employees into leadership roles, you need to plan ahead.

A succession plan takes into consideration the development of future leaders’ skills and abilities. The plan should deliver a return on your business’s training investment by providing for your successors’ advancement while simultaneously ensuring your successors don’t leave your business. Even if someone

leaves, a current employee should be ready to step into the vacated role. As the need arises, with good succession planning, employees or family members are ready for new leadership roles.

Ease Tax Exposure

Tax exposure arises when one generation gives way to the next generation in a closely-held family business. In this case, succession planning and estate planning become intertwined by the family. Multiple types of taxes must be considered when planning this type of succession, including:

•Income tax

•Gift tax

•Generation-skipping tax

•Estate tax

Start family succession planning sooner, rather than later, because starting sooner will give you more flexibility with your planning. Consult an attorney and an accountant about putting the proper estate documents in place, especially for succession planning in a family business.p

Source: sba.gov

Planning for a Disabled Child

Estate 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 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 specialneeds trust can ensure that they are provided with needed resources and care over the course of 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.

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

are less likely to have an estate plan than in years past. Hispanic Americans are the least likely racial demographic to have a will, with only 23% saying they have an estate plan in 2023 – this is a decrease of 17% since 2022 and 39% since 2021. Additionally, findings show that young adults are nearly as likely as middle-aged adults to have a will—26% of Americans ages 18 to 34 said they have a will, compared to 27% of Americans ages 35 to 54.

“Inflation is causing the public to think more about their financial futures, and for many people, this means that they are thinking about end-of-life planning,” says Jim Rosenthal, CEO of Caring.com. “Yet we haven’t seen a significant uptick in estate planning, with too many people simply putting off this crucial piece of financial planning. More education is needed to help Americans understand the importance of estate planning — and the consequences for their loved ones if they fail to do so.”

The survey asked respondents without wills what would motivate them to create one – 41% said they are waiting until they have a health crisis, and 1 in 4 said nothing would motivate them to plan their estate. When those who do have a will were asked what prompted them to create one, 28% say retirement, 26% say death of a loved one, and 22% say family expansion. p

*Your

pathway to obtaining citizenship for undocumented immigrants, the protection of Dreamers and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, and the reform of the detention system. Her work on immigration is based on her belief that America is a nation of immigrants. There is strength in diversity, and she has worked tirelessly to ensure that immigrant communities are woven into American society.

Speaking with our Editor-in-Chief, Pearl Phillip, in an exclusive interview on People, Power & Politics Radio Show, she shared her thoughts about current events, focusing on the root issues of people migrating to the United States, the resources needed to address the influx of asylum seekers, and the need for comprehensive immigration reform.

Matters Arising: Two Southern Governors and Immigrants

Recently, Congresswoman Clarke and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams had a joint press conference to address concerns about the number of immigrants transported from the southern border to New York City by Governor Abbott of Texas and Governor DeSantis of Florida. Reacting to the two famous governors' intent, she explained that the New York congressional delegation has requested

that the Biden administration use its discretion to send resources to NYC.

In addition, her office is pushing for an expedited process that enables immigrants to be authorized to work in the United States, allowing the immigrants to fend for themselves and their families while their cases are being adjudicated. She explained that her office is working with anyone seeking support with their immigration cases and has not received a lot of individuals coming across the border.

In response to the challenges faced by Haitian immigrants who have lost their lives crossing into the United States, Congresswoman Clarke explained that she has been in constant conversation with representatives of the Biden administration on immigration, who have rec-

ognized the changing immigration crisis and the need for a strategy.

"They recognize the crisis taking place and unfolding daily in Haiti right now without having a governance structure in place with the gangs roving the nation, extorting Haitians and Haitian Americans, and just making life unlivable for many Haitians."

She acknowledged the pressure forcing many Haitians to undertake the treacherous trek across Central and South America to the United States to unite with family members.

Presently, under President Biden's administration, a program called CBP One is in operation, described as a mobile process that allows people to seek asylum by setting up an appointment for their interview. The representative

believes the program will not reduce people's desire to leave their country. "But it is a pathway for those who can access the mobile app to make their way to the United States, "she explained.

Congresswoman Clarke believes that migrants own most small businesses and are needed within the community, hence her conviction for expedited work authorization.

Reaction to the Ending of Title 42 and the Introduction of Title 8

In Congresswoman Clarke's view, Title 8 has always been in effect, dating back to the 1940s as part of the immigration law, albeit outdated. "We need a 21st-century immigration policy in the United States," she said.

Especially policies that can respond to the changing world, which calls for a robust asylum program for immigrants whose lives are threatened and who seek a better life in the country. Those already in the country and in-between status must be on a pathway to receiving green cards and citizenship, normalizing DACA recipients to remove anxiety and fear of deportation.

While Title 42 was an emergency provision under public health laws, it is no longer applicable now that the pandemic emergency has been lifted. Thus, Title 8

continued on page 14

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke/ continued from page 1

Editorial credit: Rob Crandall / Shutterstock.com

must be enforced with consideration: "The officials must utilize the provisions of this law to ensure that asylum seekers are given due process as is intended."

Message to Immigrants

The role and contributions of immigrants through labor must be considered. In celebration of their commitment, the Congresswoman acknowledged their effort by honoring their contribution to the country's workforce across all levels—"everywhere from the city council to Congress to the Biden-Harris administration." She also committed to fighting for the immigrant community and serving as a beacon of hope for immigrants worldwide. In her view, immigrants are worth fighting for, and such an opinion is what revitalizes the country.

"We see innovation continuing to flourish. We see our private sector being renewed because of young people with talent, skill, and expertise to ensure our companies are number one in the world," she says.

Special Programs and Bills

Among the numerous initiatives pursued by the Congresswoman is the Climate Change Research Act, which demands that the Department of Homeland Security assess the current federal resource research regarding any potential or identified effects of climate change on

homeland security.

Furthermore, letters are signed to improve the CBP One app, which she believes needs to be revised and more reliable. "The CBP One app has to be upgraded and accurate so that individuals currently in holding facilities in Mexico can get their due process and access to the operation of seeking asylum."

She also supports a letter to the Biden administration warning against family detention policies that the Trump era ushered in, which break up families and separate children from their parents.

Assessing the Possibility of Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Irrespective of an immigrant's status, the Congresswoman believes they have a moral obligation to provide a pathway to citizenship and permanent residency, update the immigrant registry, and

address employment-based backlogs plaguing the immigration system.

In her view, the immigration laws are outdated, keeping families apart, raising uncertainty, and contributing to their inability to find and retain top talent. Answering the question, Is comprehensive immigration reform a dream?, the Congresswoman shares, "I believe that there will be comprehensive immigration reform." The pressure building toward that is mounting on Capitol Hill. "And I think the American people recognize the necessity," says Congresswoman Clarke.

Unfortunately, some Congress members on Capitol Hill support the broken system. Such individuals need to be elected out of office. "So, I am hopeful and working hard to make comprehensive immigration reform a priority in this Congress," says Congresswoman Clarke.

On May 10, as proof of her commit-

ment and hard work towards promoting a human-focused, fair, and anti-discriminatory policy, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke joined other Democratic leaders like Rep. Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA) to introduce the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2023 in response to the Child Deportation Act, H.R. 2, that was initially proposed by House Republicans and aimed at hurting immigrants and ultimately harming the nation's economy.

The bill aims to grant many hardworking, undocumented immigrants a pathway to earned citizenship.

Gratitude and Remembering Harry Belafonte

As the interview ended, the Congresswoman celebrated the life of the late Harry Belafonte.

She described a man as a giant, a close family friend whose legacy lives on through the lives of many beneficiaries of his work. "Not only was he an extraordinary talent, but also a civil rights leader who used his celebrity status to stand up for the cause of people of African descent and to fight back against the discrimination, hatred, and bigotry that made life so difficult for so many of us."

Ultimately, she is grateful for her long, fruitful service life and for setting an example of what giving and loving humanity are genuinely about.

Read more immigration stories at www.askthelawyer.us

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke/ continued from page 13

On April 19, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) led members of New York’s Congressional delegation, and immigration activists for a press conference to address the immediate asylum seeker crisis as well as reform immigration policy infrastructure for the longterm. Photo courtesy Rep Clarke’s Office.

Haitian Electeds and Staff Meet with CCCADI Leadership on Art, Culture, and Civic Engagement

the freedom of all people. They were in solidarity with freedom movements across the Caribbean and Latin America; the descendants of all of those freedom fighters are within our NYC community, today.”

Kitchen Corner

Caribbean Chicken Salad

New York, NY: As Haitian Heritage Month comes to a close, the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI) invited New York City council members and of Haitian descent and their staff members to its East Harlem location to introduce its plan to create Lakay Se Lakay (Home Is Home), a CCCADI Haitian Immersive Year in 2024. The visit was an opportunity for council members to serve as thought partners in the creation process.

Council Member Mercedes Narcisse and staff representation of Council Member Rita Joseph’s office were among those present on May 24, 2023 at the CCCADI Firehouse, located at 120 E 125th Street in East Harlem, New York, to learn about the organization’s vision for using arts and culture as a tool to raise the awareness of Haiti’s vital and historical role in the liberation and legacy of the African Diaspora.

Mercedes Narcisse, Council Member for the 46th District noted that, “Arts and culture plays such an important role in the quest for racial and social justice. I am pleased to join with CCCADI in celebrating the beauty and history of the Haitian people, many of whom I represent in the 46th Council District of Brooklyn. She concluded by noting that “When African descendants fought for freedom in Haiti, they were fighting for

Through various multidisciplinary artists and culture bearers, CCCADI’s Lakay Se Lakay, seeks to center Haiti and explore questions of its history, identity and connection to African descendant nations in the Caribbean, Latin America and the U.S., regions that represent part of the global African Diaspora.

“This process of re-membering and rewriting legacies is an act of revolution. The artists who will be part of Lakay Se Lakay are changemakers in telling their stories. Their truths are narratives of passion and purpose which gives the world a new perspective of Haiti. Their existence, generations later, is a revolutionary act of migration, cultural preservation, and innovation,” said Sabine Blaizin, Director of Programs, CCCADI.

Lakay Se Lakay is set to launch in January of 2024, timed with the closing year of the United Nation’s International Decade For People of African Descent and the 220th anniversary of Haitian independence. As a 47-year-old organization that is dedicated to advancing cultural equity and racial and social justice for African descendant communities, CCCADI seeks to launch specific programming that uplifts the rich and powerful history of Haiti as the catalyst for igniting Black & Brown freedom movements in the Western hemisphere and beyond. With New York City boasting the largest concentration of Haitians in the United States, as well as one of the oldest established Haitian communities in the country, offering a year of intergenerational cultural affirmation and exchange supports the foundational strength of the future of this community. l

With just a few things done ahead of time, your dinner can be a breeze. Marcy Dzurisin AllRecipes.com

Ingredients

•2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

•½ cup teriyaki marinade sauce

•2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped

•½ cup chopped onion

•2 teaspoons minced jalapeno pepper

•2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro

•¼ cup Dijon mustard

•¼ cup honey

•1 ½ tablespoons white sugar

•1 tablespoon vegetable oil

•1 ½ tablespoons cider vinegar

•1 ½ teaspoons lime juice

•¾ pound mixed salad greens

•1 (8 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained

•4 cups corn tortilla chips

Directions

Step 1

Place the chicken in a bowl, and cover with the teriyaki marinade sauce. Marinate at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2

In a small bowl mix the tomatoes, onion, jalapeno pepper, and cilantro. Cover salsa, and refrigerate.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix the mustard, honey, sugar, oil, vinegar, and lime juice. Cover dressing, and refrigerate.

Step 4

Preheat the grill for high heat.

Step 5

Lightly oil grill grate. Place chicken on the grill, and discard marinade. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until juices run clear.

The nutrition data for this recipe includes information for the full amount of the marinade ingredients. Depending on marinating time, ingredients, cook time, etc., the actual amount of the marinade consumed will vary.l

Nutrition Facts

Per serving:

Calories: 43

Fat: 11g

Carbs: 69g

Protein: 19g

Serving: 4

Prep Time: 30 mins

Cook Time: 15 mins

Additional Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 45 mins

This is a great refreshing salad! Instead of mixed greens I used romaine lettuce and avocados and it turned out delicious!

—Tania

Photo: CCCADI

You, Your Kids, & Mary Jane

BY LEA BENNETTE

Marijuana, Weed, Mary Jane, Cannabis, Hemp, Pot. The names and our sensibilities towards the industrious plant have changed throughout human history. Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that has been legalized in several countries. Its effects on human behavior have been studied extensively, but little is known about the impact of marijuana on the relationship between marijuana use, its effects on the brain and child development. One thing remains the same, marijuana use during childhood negatively affects cognitive development, mental health, and social behavior. In 2021, 35.4% of adults aged 18 to 25 (11.8 million) reported using marijuana in the past year.

Marijuana is one of the most widely used psychoactive drugs in the world. Its use has been legalized in several countries for medicinal and recreational purposes. Cannabis is a hardy plant that proliferates in most of the natural climates of America. It has always had many applications in which the plant could be used. The Hemp fibrous threads bound together were predominantly used in clothing, textiles, rope, and paper; even its seeds were used as food.

Legal in the United States until 1937,

when the first "sin tax" was enacted and formally in 1970, marijuana has had a tumultuous relationship with American ideologies. While California was the first state to medically decriminalize marijuana in 1996, allowing those with chronic pain access to its health benefits, NYC has recently decriminalized and legalized marijuana usage, creating unprecedented access to recreational substances we are no longer familiar with.

The Cannabis plant as we know it today comes in two species: The Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica—sativa-based Cannabis focus on waking you up. In contrast, India-based Cannabis focuses on calming you down. Short-term effects can include euphoria or other mood

changes, heightened sensory perception, and increased appetite. While the impact of marijuana on adult behavior has been well established, little is known about the effects of the drug on children. As a parent, learning the difference is essential to creating a safe and healthy environment for your children.

The amount of Tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical responsible for the drug's potency, more commonly known as "THC," in marijuana has increased dramatically in recent decades. In the mid1990s, the average THC content of confiscated weed was roughly 4 percent. By 2014, it was about 12 percent, with a few strains of pot containing THC levels as high as 37 percent. The average THC lev-

els of "street" level marijuana range from 25%, which is not the same as Hemp from 1931.

Marijuana use during childhood can affect social behavior. Children exposed to marijuana in the womb or during early childhood are likely to have behavioral problems, such as aggression, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Chronic marijuana use during adolescence can also lead to decreased social functioning, affecting relationships and academic performance.

Studies have shown that children exposed to marijuana in the womb or during early childhood have lower cognitive scores and are more likely to have learning difficulties. In 2022, 30.7% of 12th graders reported using marijuana in the past year, and 6.3% reported using marijuana daily. In addition, many young people also use vaping devices to consume cannabis products. In 2022, nearly 20.6% of 12th graders reported vaping marijuana in the past year, with 2.1% reporting doing so daily.

People who started smoking marijuana heavily in their teens and had an ongoing marijuana use disorder lost an average of eight IQ points between ages 13 and 38. The lost mental abilities didn't fully return in those who quit marijuana as adults—those who started smoking marijuana didn't show notable IQ decline. Chronic marijuana use during adolescence can also lead to decreased IQ scores and impaired executive function, affecting decision-making, planning, and problem-solving abilities.

An "overdose" occurs when a person uses enough of the drug to produce lifethreatening symptoms or death. While many people experience a pleasant "high" feeling after using marijuana, others may experience anxiety, fear, or panic. Overdosage of Cannabis can give the effect of hallucinations, delusions, and in the worst case: psychosis. The risk is highest with regular use of high-potency marijuana.

The impact of marijuana on child development is an area of growing concern. Marijuana use during childhood can negatively affect cognitive development, mental health, and social behavior. The long-term effects of marijuana on children are still not fully understood, and more research is needed to understand better the risks associated with marijuana use during childhood. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the potential risks associated with marijuana use and take steps to prevent their children from being exposed to it.l

Should You Schedule Sex? We Looked at Whether Spontaneous or Unplanned Sex Is More Satisfying

BY KATARINA KOVACEVIC & AMY MUISE THE CONVERSATION

Portrayals of sex in TV and movies often involve passionate, spur-ofthe-moment encounters that seem to have little forethought or planning. Media depictions of sex might then send the message that a feature of hot, fulfilling sex is spontaneity.

In fact, in our studies, when we asked partnered people in the United States and Canada about their sexual preferences, most believe that sex is more satisfying when it happens spontaneously compared to when it is planned ahead of time.

Myths of spontaneity

But is spur-of-the moment sex actually more satisfying? Although spontaneity might signal passion to some, valuing spontaneity can have its drawbacks. Although desire for sex can be intense in the throes of a new relationship and sex might feel like it regularly occurs without planning, sexual desire (and the fre-

quency of sex) often declines over time in a relationship.

Long-term couples who wait for both partners to have a simultaneous burst of desire in order for sex to occur might rarely engage in sex. Planning might be essential for sex to occur amid the other demands on their time, even if scheduling a sexual encounter is seen as less sexy. Knowing when to have sex can also help people prepare — clothing, lubrica-

GREEN CARD SLAVERY?

tion, privacy — that might enhance sex.

Despite the spontaneity ideal permeating North American culture, psyche and media, little research had examined how planned sex stacked up against the spontaneous sex ideal.

Our research group from the Sexual Health and Relationships Laboratory at York University recruited 303 individuals and 102 couples from the United States and Canada. We asked participants how much they agreed with statements like: “Sex with my partner is most satisfying when it happens spontaneously” and “I prefer to know in advance when I will be having sex next.”

We then asked whether their most recent sexual experience was planned or not. We inquired how sexually satisfied they were in their relationships generally and during their most recent sexual experience. We also tracked their daily experiences over a three-week period.

Spontaneity and satisfaction

Across both studies, people upheld the belief that spontaneity was ideal. But in contrast to these beliefs, spontaneous sex was not especially satisfying.

In our first study, although people who were more strongly aligned with the spontaneity ideal generally reported being more sexually satisfied, when their most recent sexual experience was seen as having happened spontaneously, they did not find it more satisfying than sex that was planned.

Planned sex could sometimes be seen as less sexy, but this was only for those who believed that planned sex is not ideal. Perceiving a recent sexual experience as planned was linked to lower sexual satisfaction overall, but this was not the case for those who more strongly believed that planned sex was satisfying (and interestingly, about one in five mentioned their last sexual encounter was planned).

In a second study, in which we tracked couples’ sexual experiences over 21 days, sexual satisfaction did not differ based on whether sex was perceived as spontaneous or planned, even for those who believed in the spontaneous sex ideal.

We also wanted to get a glimpse of how people felt spontaneity and planning contributed to their sexual enjoyment. Interestingly, people did say that spontaneity added to their sexual excitement, passion, meaning and desire. But many people also mentioned that planning could create anticipation and desire for sex.

And though some people mentioned that planned sex could add an element of pressure, spontaneity was also not always the recipe for hot sex — some people said that when sex was unplanned, they may not have enough time to warm up to penetration, set aside mental distractions or ensure privacy.

Passionate perceptions

One reason that people may value spontaneity is because they link it to more authentic passion and desire, akin to the early stages of a relationship. If this is you, remember that even in the early stages of a relationship, sex was probably more planned than you perceived it to be.

Just think of how much planning went into creating romantic or fun dates, preparing for sex ahead of time with personal grooming or appealing undergarments, and making efforts to turn toward each other in those early days of your relationship.

Planned sex, on the other hand, may evoke anti-erotic associations of responsibility, duty and obligation which, let’s face it, is not the stuff of great romance novels.

Yet our research shows that seeing the value of planned sex might help couples maintain sexual satisfaction by being intentional about sex. This is especially important to remember when romantic partners go through periods where spontaneity is a challenge, such as busy periods at work and the birth of a new child.

Being intentional about sex

Clinicians seeing couples who are struggling with their sexual connection have long tried to challenge ideas about sexual spontaneity in favour of having clients be more intentional about their sexual relationship.

Most of the important things we do in our lives are planned ahead of time. For example, recall your last vacation. Chances are the trip was something that you planned ahead of time, but also something that was highly enjoyable.

If sex is something you and your partner(s) value, planning can be a part of prioritizing sexual connection. While the stars can sometimes align and spark spurof-the-moment passion, being intentional by planning time for sex can also set the stage for fulfilling sexual encounters.

Planning sex does not mean it has to be pencilled in on a schedule or sent out as

In a new relationship, sex might feel effortless, but desire and frequency often decline over time.

Neediness in Relationships

BY MARY CAMPBELL

Are you struggling in your relationship with someone else because you feel they are too needy? Do you feel a little stifled and repelled by their behavior towards you? There are reasons why people are too demanding in relationships and ways to handle neediness so that it does not become an issue.

Why People Are Needy

It's natural for people to have needs and desires. They may seek attention, affection, validation, or support from others. Some people may be more needy than others due to various reasons such as past experiences, emotional trauma, or a lack of self-confidence.

Understand that neediness does not necessarily mean someone is weak or inadequate. It's a normal part of being human. We all have different emotional needs.

However, it is also sensible to maintain healthy boundaries and not rely too heavily on others to fulfill our needs. Finding a balance between independence and interdependence is vital to building fulfilling relationships with others.

Setting Boundaries

If you want to stop someone from being needy towards you, you ought to set some boundaries. Be clear about what you are willing to do for them. Make sure they also know about things you are not willing to do. Try to be firm but also kind and respectful. Setting boundaries is a healthy action to take. It helps others understand what you are and are not willing to tolerate from them.

Encourage Independence

Another way to stop needy behavior is to encourage the person to be more self-sufficient. Offer advice on how they can

solve their problems or accomplish tasks without relying on you or others. Offering advice will help them gain confidence and independence. It will also encourage them to trust you and feel less insecure in the relationship.

Prioritize Yourself

It is also wise to take care of yourself. Do not let the other individual's neediness drain your energy or take up more of your time than you can give. Make sure you prioritize your own needs and boundaries.

Show Compassion

Finally, be patient and understanding. Needy behavior often stems from deepseated insecurities or past experiences. When you are empathetic and supportive, you can help them work through these issues and become more self-reliant.

A Better Relationship

Neediness is off-putting, but you can compassionately guide the needy individual to be more independent. Your compassionate guidance will allow you to develop a healthier relationship with that person moving forward, meaning a brighter future for you both.l

Should You Schedule Sex?/

continued from page 18

When working from home, afternoon sex could be a treat..

a calendar invite. It can simply be about communicating with your partner so you can learn when the mood is more likely to strike, such as after sharing emotional intimacy or during less stressful periods at work, and agreeing to make time for connection.

With many people still working from home or remotely, this may be as simple as shifting your work hours so you can enjoy an afternoon delight. In some cases, you or your partner may be more interested in having sex in the morning or afternoon versus at night when you are ready for sleep after a heavy dinner. For most couples, sex is a way to maintain and strengthen their connection. And over time in relationships, just like date nights or weekend getaways, it is something that might require planning. The good news is that planned sex is just as likely to be satisfying as a spur-of-themoment encounter.l

Tourism Trinidad to Host Lagniappe Culinary Cultural Experience

BY HARRY JOHNSON ETURBO NEWS

When government officials and professionals from the Caribbean’s Tourism and Travel Industry converge in Manhattan, New York for Caribbean Week 2023, they can look forward to enjoying Lagniappe – A Culinary Cultural Experience of Trinidad, which will be hosted by Tourism Trinidad Limited at Midtown Loft and Terrace in Manhattan, from 7pm to 10pm, on June 28, 2023.

Lagniappe – as the term suggests – will truly be a “gift” to attendees at Caribbean Week. The by invitation only event will feature the spectacle of Trinidad’s festivals, including a jump up session with costumed masqueraders, steelpan, and tassa, as well as samplings of Trinidad’s world class cuisine. This represents our unparalleled ethnic and cultural diversity. Guests will also enjoy samplings of Angostura’s award-winning rums.

World-renowned as the Island of Festivals, the Culinary Hub of the Caribbean, and a bustling epicenter for business and trade in the Latin America and Caribbean region, Trinidad is wellpoised to capture the attention of travel professionals and cultural enthusiasts, as well as business and media leaders – all of whom are attending Caribbean Week in search of the most appealing destinations for vacationing clients, meeting and event planners, and major business investors.

According to Trinidad Tourism Limited CEO, Carla Cupid: “We are delighted to

host Lagniappe at Caribbean Week. This event is a great opportunity to showcase our culture and cuisine to the world. Our mantra is, we are always in Season, and we hope that guests will leave with a newfound appreciation for all that Trinidad has to offer.” Tourism Trinidad is working closely with Washington DCbased cultural tourism consultants, CariBeat, to ensure that guests enjoy Lagniappe as an authentic culinary cultural experience of Trinidad and are incentivized to #visitTrinidad as their next business or vacation destination.l

Carla Cupid, CEO of Tourism Trinidad Ltd.

Photo: Kerwin Pierre/ Trinidad & Tobago Guardian

The Benefits of Starting a Podcast for Your Business

BY NYC MEDIA TRAINING

The growth of podcasting has created great opportunities for businesses of all sizes. Sharing useful and entertaining information through a podcast is the perfect way to keep your marketing efforts relevant in today’s marketplace. Here are a few of the best benefits that your business will experience when you start a podcast.

Increase Brand Awareness

Most markets today are highly competitive, even for businesses that operate in small niches. This makes it critical for your small business to have a memorable brand that will stand out in the crowd. Podcasting offers your business a way to keep your brand fresh in the minds of your customers over long periods of time, especially as the number of podcast episodes you make available increases.

Low Start-Up Costs

The equipment needed to create a podcast is not complex. With a basic setup that includes a quality microphone and editing software, you can create a podcast that has a level of quality which will reflect well on your business. This only continues to become truer as advancements in technology make podcasting even simpler, more accessible and affordable, making it the perfect marketing solution for a small business with a limited budget.

The Growth of Mobile Platforms

More people than ever before are using mobile devices such as cell phones and tablets to find the information and products they need. Since the growth of mobile platforms won’t be slowing down any time soon, it’s important that your business can meet today’s consumers where they are. Podcasts are the perfect way to do just that.

Understand Your Customers

Interacting with the people who listen to your podcast is one of the most beneficial parts of podcasting. There’s no better way to get a deep understanding of what your customers desire than to simply communicate with them. Podcasts create the perfect environment in which this can happen, especially when your podcast can be shared through social media platforms that will generate comments and

shares from your existing listeners, as well as those who are new to your podcast.

These are just a few of the many benefits your business can experience when you succeed at podcasting. When done right, your podcast will help to increase brand awareness, keep your business relevant in today’s mobile marketplace and help you to better understand the needs and desires of your customer base.l

Public Transportation and Bus Accidents

BY 311PERSONALINJURY.COM

New York City has one of the most complex and extensive public transportation systems across the country, which serves a population of over 15 million people. In a large and congested city like New York, where most people don't use private vehicles to move about. Instead, for convenience, affordability, and swift movement, residents and tourists alike rely predominantly on public transport and transit for getting around to their various destinations. Data shows that 54% of households in New York City do not own a car and often rely on the public transport system comprising of a network that encompasses buses, trains, ferries, and subways.

Breakdown of Public Transport Usage in New York

Among New York City commuters, over 35% use the subway, 11% take the bus, 7% travel by commuter rail, 22% drive alone, 9% walk to work, and 4% carpool. The number of people using taxis, cycling or traveling by ferry remains comparatively minimal.

In 2019, over 2 million riders took the

bus daily, with 678 million rides annually by January 2020. NYC has over 5900 buses, plying along 234 local, 20 Select Bus Service, and 73 express bus routes within the five boroughs. Manhattan has one of the busiest routes, followed by Bronx and Brooklyn. The longest local bus route is on Staten Island's S78 between the St George Ferry Terminal and the Bricktown Mall in Charleston.

Bus Accidents in New York City

As expected, with such a vast operation and complex service, managing thousands of buses daily by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in the City, it is inevitable that accidents will occur. However, it becomes a source of concern

when the accidents become frequent. Various factors, ranging from inadequate training, reckless driving by MTA drivers, laxity in MTA's supervision, fatigue, poor weather conditions, careless pedestrians, can contribute to serious bus accidents in and around the City, causing injuries or death.

An article from the New York Post reports that available statistics over the past three years, MTA buses were involved in more than 21,000 crashes, at an average of 23 bus accidents per day.

More than ten people died within the timeframe, and over 2,500 people were injured in bus accidents.

Considering the size and capacity of an MTA bus, any negligence on the part of the bus operator or the bus company can cause serious injuries, including spinal, head injury, burns, internal organ damage, amputation, disfigurement, and death of the injured victim.

The impact is often devastating, like the case of Lance Margolin who lost his life from the accident on April 8th, 2021, along Eastern Parkway, when an MTA bus struck a traffic camera pole that fell on him, leading to his unprecedented death. The force from the weight of the camera pole caused him massive internal injuries and skull fractures.

Inside the bus, there have been cases of people being injured while riding on a bus operated by New York City Transit. In some instances, bus passengers may be injured due to a driver's negligence, such as a driver failing to make a complete stop for a passenger's safe disembarking or onboarding.

Other accidents can happen when a bus strikes another vehicle or a pedestrian or bicyclist. They can also malfunction due to defective equipment or poor maintenance. Thus, transit bus accidents fall into organizational Public Transport Related causes and passenger-related causes.

Importance of New York Public Transportation and Bus Safety

Public transportation is expected to improve road safety by reducing vehicular traffic. Therefore, security in transit buses is crucial for passengers' confidence in the Public Transport and the companies that operate the services due to its far-reaching effect on the economy and beyond.

Consequently, frequent bus accidents increase the cost of operation in an industry dealing with budgetary shortfalls and low revenues, leading to a

decrease in service reliability, safety, and potential settlements to victims and their families.

Bus accidents can affect their opinion and usage from the passenger's perspective, which often requires a campaign to raise confidence, such as the NYC Vision Zero Plan and the most recent 'Stop Let Them Cross.'

What to Do If You're Hurt on NYC Public Transportation

Despite the effort, injured individuals on public transportation like a Bus in New York City can become entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. The authorities behind public transport have a duty of care toward pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transport users. However, if breached, they can be found liable for negligence that caused the injuries or death.

For any injury victim, you should take steps to protect yourself in case you need to file a claim.

•Document: Gather evidence from the scene as photographs or videos, especially for evidence in a personal injury case. You or someone can help you achieve this using the camera on your phone.

•Witnesses: If you can, try and obtain the contact information of any passerby who saw the incident. Eyewitness accounts and statements collected as soon as the event happened are crucial. They can also be achieved with a recorded video statement. Avoid time-lapse as memories fade quickly, and recollection becomes difficult.

•Call the police or ambulance: If you or the injury victim suffered an injury, an official record of the incident is essential. Official records from the police or ambulance attendant on your account of what happened must be accurately documented in a police report or ambulance report in case of a lawsuit f to recover damages.

•Seeking Medical help: When an accident occurs, the body's natural response causes the victim to feel solid and ready for a fight or flight. Adrenaline tends to run high after an accident, and it can sometimes mask the symptoms of an injury. However, injury victims start feeling pain hours or days after an accident. This is why it's always a good idea to go to a hospital emergency department or see a private doctor after an accident.

Legal Assistance

If you were involved in a public transportaiton or bus accident, you need the services of an effective defense attorney who will help you build a solid case to get the settlement you deserve. In such cases, the experienced Personal Injury Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates can help you. Call us at 855-768-8845 or schedule an appointment at www.askthelawyer.us. The lawyer you hire does make a difference! l

Editorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

The lawyer you hire, does make a difference!