Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 182

United Nations Learns What Tourism Resilience Is

BY LINDA S. HOHNHOLZ ETURBO NEWS

The man in tourism some call Mr. Tourism Resilience is also known as the Jamaica Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett. He is the official behind the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Center (GTRCMC) and also the man behind the UN officially launching the annual Global Tourism Resilience Day on February 17.

As a tourism minister of an island nation, the minister’s country went

through many challenges in building its tourism industry. Today, Jamaica Tourism is booming and the number one

He is the official behind the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Center (GTRCMC) and also the man behind the UN officially launching the annual Global Tourism Resilience Day on February 17.

As a tourism minister of an island nation, the minister’s country went through many challenges in building its tourism industry. Today, Jamaica Tourism is booming and the number one

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Record Demand for US H-2B Temporary Workers Visas ....14

St. Lucian Dona Regis-Prosper Named First Female Secretary-General and CEO of the Caribbean Tourism Organization

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados: The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the premier tourism development agency for 25 Caribbean countries and territories, has appointed Dona Regis-Prosper the new Secretary-General and Chief Executive Officer. Beginning her assignment on September 1, 2023, Regis-Prosper, who hails from St.

Lucia, is set to make history as the first woman to assume leadership of the intergovernmental body.

With an impressive career that spans more than 22 years, Regis-Prosper brings an unparalleled depth and breadth of knowledge and experience in the tourism industry to the CTO. She has lived and worked in multiple Caribbean destina-

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Dona Regis-Prosper. Photo courtesy: CTO

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett

Photo courtesy: Jamaica Tourism Board

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

St. Lucia

630 Third Avenue, 7th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-697-9360

St. Maarten

675 Third Avenue, Suite 1807

New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 800-786-2278

St. Vincent & The Grenadines 801 Second Avenue, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017

Tel: 212-687-4981

Trinidad & Tobago 125 Maiden Lane, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10038

Tel: 212-682-7272

For more Consulate

CARICOM At 50: There Is Still Hope

BY SIR RONALD SANDERS

July 4, 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas, the foundational document that brought the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) into existence. With high hopes and lofty ambitions, the heads of government of the four largest independent Caribbean countries at the time embarked on a journey towards regional integration. They were later joined, to varying degrees of commitment, by 10 other countries.

Reflection on the past five decades reveals that CARICOM has fallen short of its initial promises and failed to deliver the deep and meaningful integration that was envisioned, leading to the oftenrepeated phrase, "CARICOM and CARIGONE."

While CARICOM experienced some initial success, maintaining and enhancing institutions like the Caribbean Development Bank which was a product of its predecessor orgnization - CARIFTA - and making progress in trade, its history has been characterized by sporadic bursts of activity followed by prolonged periods of inaction. This inconsistent pattern has eroded confidence and faith in the CARICOM project among various sectors of Caribbean society.

Nevertheless, the fact that CARICOM's framework continues to exist is a testament to the enduring belief in the benefits of regional integration. No government dares to withdraw from it, fearing a popular backlash from within its own population.

Despite the revision of the CARICOM Treaty in 2001, which aimed to establish a Single Market and Economy (CSME), progress towards these goals has been painfully slow. The establishment of a Customs Union, let alone a Common Market, remains unrealized. The lack of a comprehensive regional economic framework has hindered the potential for genuine free trade, cross-border company establishment, and the free movement of labor—a vision that once excited the people of CARICOM.

By 2011, the CSME had effectively stalled, with little progress made in advancing regional integration. In 2022, CARICOM leaders acknowledged that trade barriers, particularly non-tariff barriers, were major obstacles to the development of a regional market for agricultural produce, as well as inter-regional transportation. The inability to overcome even these challenges, especially air transportation, which suffered as a consequence of closed borders during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the significant capacity that CARICOM states have yet to collectively build.

Comparatively, the countries of the European Union (EU), which embarked on integration efforts around the same time as CARICOM, have made significant strides. The EU expanded its mem-

bership, established a single currency, dismantled border barriers, and empowered a central Commission to make decisions collectively for all member countries. In contrast, CARICOM has limped along, burdened by inadequate implementation of decisions, mistrust among leaders, institutional decline, and a weak and underfunded Secretariat.

Numerous reports and commissions have carefully examined CARICOM's failures and offered recommendations for improvement. The 1992 West Indian Commission's seminal work, "Time for Action," led by Caribbean luminary, Shridath Ramphal, called for the establishment of a Caribbean Commission similar to the European Commission. Despite the acceptance of some recommendations, crucial proposals regarding governance structures, including the creation of a Caribbean Commission, were largely ignored.

In 2016, the Jamaican government commissioned a review of its relations with CARICOM, headed by Bruce Golding. The commission recommended explicit provisions in the CARICOM Treaty to enforce member states' obligations and ensure timely implementation of decisions. Yet, once again, these recommendations were largely disregarded, further highlighting the challenges of implementing meaningful reform within CARICOM.

In 2021, a CARICOM Commission on the economy revived discussions on regional integration. It suggested that interested member states should proceed with integration, leaving the door open for others to join at their own pace. However, this report, like its predecessors, has not spurred the necessary action.

The dominant characteristic of CARICOM has been the jealous retention of sovereignty by individual governments. In their international bargaining, CARICOM governments have achieved success only when they act together. But there is no established machinery for joint relations with external powers and agencies. Thus, ad hoc collective activities have produced beneficial results, but these have been spectacular exceptions, not the consistent rule.

This inclination to maintain decisionmaking power at the national level has hindered progress. Bureaucrats, too, have perpetuated this culture of nationalism, often prioritizing their countries' interests over collective regional welfare. Consequently, CARICOM has struggled to implement regional decisions effectively and act in unison, hampering its ability to achieve its objectives.

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) serves as a notable example of this contradiction. Established in 2001 to replace the British Privy Council as the region's final court of appeal, the CCJ has struggled to gain the full support of member states despite the demonstrated high quality of its jurisprudence. Some coun-

tries have been hesitant to embrace the CCJ due to concerns over losing sovereignty and fear of political interference. As a result, the region has been unable to unify under a single legal system, preventing the CCJ from fulfilling its potential as a symbol of Caribbean unity and independence.

The consequences of limited integration have been significant for CARICOM countries. Research conducted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) indicates that deeper regional integration could bring substantial economic benefits. By reducing non-tariff barriers and trade costs, CARICOM countries could stimulate trade, restructure their economies, and generate net employment gains. Integration would also allow member states to tap into global value chains, attract foreign investment, and enhance their economic potential. The failure to seize these opportunities has come at a cost to the region's development and prosperity.

As CARICOM reaches its 50-year milestone, new challenges face each of its member states that none can manage effectively alone. Among them are the impact of climate change including more frequent and intense disasters; new pandemics for which they are ill-prepared; increasing transnational crime; gang violence and the spread of deadly weapons; and narrowing windows to much needed development funds. All of these developments require more integration, not less.

CARICOM needs a renewed commitment from member states to prioritize collective interests over narrow national concerns. This shift in mindset should be accompanied by concrete actions, such as the removal of remaining trade barriers, harmonization of regulations, and the establishment of effective governance mechanisms that can enforce regional decisions.

CARICOM must also invest in revamping its institutions, providing them with the necessary expertise, authority, and resources to drive the integration agenda forward. Enhanced regional cooperation and coordination, with a focus on effective implementation and enforcement, will be vital to restoring confidence and generating tangible benefits for the people of the Caribbean.

Hopefully, 50 years of lessons will not go unlearned. The vision of a fully integrated Caribbean, where borders are irrelevant, and collective strength prevails, can still be realized.l

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.

Rent Regulation Does Not Mean Neglect: Landlords Are Fearmongering to Gut Tenant Protections

BY OKSANA MIRONOVA & SAMUEL STEIN URBAN MATTERS

In 2019, the New York State Legislature passed the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act (HSTPA), which strengthened the rent regulation system by closing landlordfriendly loopholes. This law has acted as a stabilizing force during a pandemic-driven resurgence of speculation on multifamily properties. According to the latest data collected by New York City’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the median monthly rent in rent-regulated units was $1,400, $425 lower than in unregulated rentals.

In order to undermine the HSTPA, landlord lobbyists have recently resurrected the mythical connection between rent regulation and housing abandonment and neglect, grounding their arguments in fuzzy math and false readings of New York City’s history.

In fact, time and time again research has showed that rent regulation does not lead to property neglect. New Jersey is a good place to test the impacts of rent control policies, because the state has a range of municipalities with and without rent regulation. Using a sample of 161 communities in New Jersey, a 2015 study published in the journal Cities tested the impact of rent regulation (both its presence and its relative strictness) on housing quality and foreclosure rates (as a proxy for abandonment). It did not find any significant impact on the two variables when controlling for apartment size, income, race, and median rents.

Current data from New York City also does not show any relationship between stronger rent regulations and worsening building conditions. In 2021, the NYU Furman Center analyzed HPD complaint data through the beginning of the pandemic, and found that their seasonal pattern did not change after HSTPA’s passage. Last summer, the group we work for, the Community Service Society, polled New Yorkers about a wide range of issues, as part of our annual “Unheard Third” survey. We asked respondents if their rents went up in the past year, and, if so, whether their landlords had made any

improvement to their apartments or buildings. We found that rent-regulated tenants who experienced a rent increase were 12 percentage points more likely to see improvements in their buildings compared to unregulated tenants (44 vs. 32 percent).

While these numbers should be far higher for any tenants experiencing rent increases, they point to an important fact: Rent-stabilized landlords seem to be more likely to invest in improvements than market-rate landlords. Counter to anti-regulatory arguments, rent regulation does not inhibit building maintenance. Instead, it incentivizes it, by making a portion of the rent increase contingent on apartment or building improvements.

Given ample empirical evidence to the contrary, why are landlords dredging up tired myths about rent regulation and vacancy? To bully State and local officials to undermine rent stabilization.

We know that landlords in some highcost neighborhoods with large concentrations of rent-stabilized units are purposely holding units off the market, either to combine apartments and set high rents (“Frankensteining”) or to wait out the existing rent regulation regime in the hopes that by willfully worsening the housing crisis, the State Legislature will grow weary and relent to landlords’ calls to weaken tenants’ rights.

Vacancies, however, are far more prevalent in high-rent than low-cost housing. On the one hand, an over-production of luxury housing has led to a supply glut; on the other, many buyers of luxury apartments have no intention of ever really living in them, using them instead as pieds-à-terre or as pure investment vehicles.

Some in the real estate industry have said explicitly that they are not renting vacant units because, under current regulations, it costs more than they are willing to pay to upgrade them. If they are, in fact, admitting to withholding otherwise affordable rentals from potential tenants, it reflects an act of politically motivated sabotage to further worsen the housing emergency and undermine hard-fought tenants’ rights in New York.

Landlords claiming that renovations of

units held off-market would cost an average of $80,000 are significantly overstating the average costs of renovation at turnover. Responsible operators of rentstabilized housing tend to average $15,000 in renovations at turnover, which matches the way the post-HSTPA Individual Apartment Improvement (IAI) guidelines are written. In rare cases where the need for rehabilitation is immense, renovation costs can reach $30,000. The only way that an $80,000 renovation pencils out is if the goal is to turn a formerly affordable unit into a luxury one.

Meanwhile, the City of New York has several programs available to landlords who need money to bring apartments up to code. For years, HPD’s Landlord Ambassador program has offered both capital and human resources to owners facing such a predicament. More recently, the City’s Unlocking Doors program offers landlords $25,000 for renovations in long-vacant low-cost apartments. In exchange, the landlords must agree to rent to a tenant holding a CityFHEPS (Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement) voucher. Because the City already offers a $4,500 bonus to landlords who accept these vouchers, this payout is closer to $30,000.

This is a sensible way to approach the problem: landlords get the money they need to repair units; homeless households get a place to live; and the cost to the city for the voucher is lower than it would be if it were subsidizing a tenant living in a more expensive apartment. And yet landlord lobbyists have urged landlords to reject the payments and instead hold out for legislation that would deliver massive rent increases.

Rather than bending to landlords’ will, New York City legislators should:

•Create a commercial and residential vacant property registry, with publicly available data.

TEAM

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

Publisher

I.Q. INC.

Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief

Pearl Phillip

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Brian Figeroux, Esq.

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•Use the City’s existing code enforcement system to speed up inspections of vacant units and enforce habitability standards in those apartments.

•Support the City’s commitment to match landlords who are truly struggling to afford repairs with renovation grants and voucher-holding tenants.

•Support the State Legislature in closing the “Frankensteining” loophole.

•Housing neglect is a serious problem, but the solution isn’t gutting tenant protections; it’s getting serious about enforcing rent laws and building codes, and treating housing as a vital resource rather than a source of profit maximization.l

Oksana Mironova and Samuel Stein are senior policy analysts at the Community Service Society of New York. This Urban Matters is adapted from their June 6th testimony to the New York City Council Committee on Housing and Buildings.

Keeping Our Communities Safe: One Young Person at a Time

BY HON ERIC ADAMS

The old saying, ‘Prevention is better than cure’ is truer than ever today. There are many problems that we face now, which—if we deal with them at the source—can be handled effectively and with less suffering. Gun violence among our young people is one of them. Our administration’s historic $89 million investment in New York City’s Crisis Management System as well as landmark investments in our Summer Youth Employment Program and Summer Rising will give our young people a sense of purpose and keep them engaged and safe. Our Crisis Management System is based on a widely recognized public health approach to addressing violent conflict and aims to change New Yorkers’ attitudes towards using violence in tense situations. Taken together, our Crisis Management System and the summer programs will provide our young people with the opportunities and skills they need to build a better future and help prevent gun violence before it arises.

These efforts will build on our success in preventing crime: shootings have declined by 24% in the first six months of 2023, and more generally, crime has fallen in five of the seven major cate-

gories during the first six months of the year compared to the same period in 2022. We will continue to bring crime down and keep New York the safest large city in the nation.

Our Crisis Management System deploys local residents, "violence interrupters,” and community leaders to mediate disputes and connect young people aged 16 to 24 most at risk of gun violence to mentorship. Violence interrupters are often people with a history of violent behavior who have succeeded in turning their own lives around. They are well positioned to defuse tensions before they become dangerous, and can connect high-risk individuals to mental health

services, job training, employment opportunities, and more, giving young people a sense of purpose and decreasing the risk of violence. Our CMS teams will operate in 31 neighborhoods that account for more than two-thirds of shooting incidents citywide.

We’re also getting more of our young people on the right track with summer enrichment and employment programs that will keep them challenged and engaged so that we reduce the need for these kinds of interventions later on. Our Summer Rising Program serves 110,00 young people in grades K-8. The program, which runs for 6 to 7 weeks starting on July 5th, will help students close

the COVID learning gap and allow them to enjoy a fun summer in a secure and supervised environment. It allows our parents and caregivers to work without worrying about how their children will stay occupied. Our Summer Youth Employment Program will reach 100,000 youth this summer; it provides paid opportunities in a variety of fields including business, tech, and healthcare.

Gun violence doesn’t take place in a vacuum. It occurs when young people lack a sense of purpose and turn to violence or other antisocial behavior instead. With the right social-emotional skills, and with paid and engaging internship opportunities, our at risk-youth can turn their lives around. I should know. When I was a young man, I got into trouble with law and now, I’m mayor of New York City.

I want all our young people to have the same second chance that I did, and for New York to remain a safe and a thriving beacon for all.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.

New York, NY - August 3, 2022: Mayor Eric Adams speaks during joint briefing with then Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell at One Police Plaza. Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

tions, and served as Director of Marketing and Product Development of the St. Lucia Air and Seaports Authority; Director of Business Development for Margaritaville Caribbean Group in Jamaica; CEO of the Tortola Pier Park in the British Virgin Islands; and General Manager of the Antigua Cruise Port where she is currently employed.

Chairman of the CTO, Kenneth Bryan, who is the Minister of Tourism and Ports of the Cayman Islands, welcomed RegisProsper to the regional body. “We are extremely pleased to have Dona RegisProsper come on board to lead the CTO. Her vast experience, strategic insight, and impressive track record in the tourism sector make her an exceptional choice to propel our organization into a new era,” he stated, adding that having more women in positions of influence enhances the efficiency of the region’s major economic earner and sends positive messages of encouragement and inspiration for women and girls across the Caribbean.

A dynamic and transformative leader who has built and sustained a strong network of professionals in both the public and private sector (working closely with regional government officials, tourism stakeholders, and industry professionals), Regis-Prosper emerged as the top choice from a pool of more than 60 highly qualified applicants. The rigorous

selection process included multiple rounds of interviews and a comprehensive assessment related to addressing some of the most pressing issues faced by the regional tourism industry.

Chairman Bryan disclosed that throughout the selection process, ministers, commissioners and directors lauded Regis-Prosper’s transformational leadership style. “They found her to be innovative, forward-thinking, results-driven, and solution-oriented,” he said, noting that her perspective on managing the climate crisis was particularly wellreceived, illustrating her deep-seated passion for sustainability and her ability to develop practical solutions to critical industry issues.

Regis-Prosper takes over the organization’s leadership reins from Acting Secretary General and CEO Neil Walters,

CTO’s Director of Finance and Resource Management, who has been filling the position following the retirement of Barbadian Hugh Riley in 2019. The other two Caribbean tourism professionals to serve in the region’s top tourism post include the late tourism stalwart Jean Holder and Vincent Vanderpool Wallace, former Bahamas Director General and Bahamas Minister of Tourism.

Of her new role, Regis-Prosper stated, “I am deeply honored to have been selected to serve as Secretary General of the CTO and am grateful for the trust and confidence the CTO Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism and the Board of Directors have placed in me. I eagerly look forward to working with our dedicated team and diverse stakeholders to promote the

Caribbean tourism sector, champion sustainability, and continue to foster impactful relationships and deliver ROI for our members.”

With a Master of Business Administration degree, Certified Professional Marketer qualification, and significant experience in business development, strategy, marketing and sustainability, Regis-Prosper is well able to lead the Caribbean tourism sector into a bright and prosperous future, Chairman Bryan asserted.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), headquartered in Barbados, is the Caribbean’s tourism development agency, comprising membership of the region’s finest countries and territories, including Dutch-, English- and Frenchspeaking, as well as a range of private sector allied members. The CTO’s vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year-round, warm-weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members, the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution, and research & information technology.l

Kenneth Bryan, Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and Minister of Tourism and Ports for the Cayman Islands delivering remarks at CARICOM Flag-raising ceremony in NY. Photo: PP/IQINC

St. Lucian Dona Regis-Prosper/ continued from page 1

‘Just Leave Me Alone!’ Why Staying Connected to Your Teenager is Tricky But Important

BY ELISE WOODMAN THE CONVERSATION

Parenting teenagers can feel daunting. With high rates of youth mental health diagnoses and persistent messages about adolescents’ desire for independence, parents and carers are searching for ways to support their kids and have a relationship with them.

Family connectedness – the sense of belonging and closeness that can be present in families of all shapes and sizes –can protect young people’s wellbeing and mental health.

Feeling connected to family can provide a stable foundation for positive development and building a sense of self. Family connection helps young people feel secure and supported at home as they cope with the changes of adolescence and explore the world and relationships around them.

But it’s not always easy to foster when the teenager in your life says they want

you to leave them alone. Here are some ideas to try.

Pushing away but wanting connection

Our previous research involved interviews with young people, who told us that although their words and actions sometimes push relatives away, they need and value time with family much more than we might realise.

Similar research suggests young people

STAY FUN, AND SEXY FRESH,

still want family involvement, despite sometimes sending mixed messages. In 2020, 80% of 15–to-19 year olds surveyed rated family relationships as very or extremely important.

Here’s what young people told us they wanted family to do.

1. Be present in their lives

Time with family members is important to young people. Connections are built

by being engaged with your teenagers during the mundanity of life – while washing the dishes together, sharing meals or driving places.

Young people need to see you are genuinely interested in their lives. Ask openended questions and remember the important things they tell you. A good first step is putting away your phone –yep, just like we keep telling them to. Do not assume changes in their mood are just due to hormones or neurological shifts. Teenagers in our research told us sometimes they hide away in their bedrooms because their parents are focused on work and not mentally present to connect with.

When life gets busy, be explicit that you value time with them and want more of it.

If you are not living with your young person, showing a consistent interest in their lives is crucial to maintaining your connection.

continued on page 7

Have

LGBTQIA+

Reproductive

Low-to

FAMILY MATTERS

Connect to Your Teenager

continued from page 6

2. Share in each other’s interests

Common interests naturally support time together and engaged conversations. Ask about the things they care about. Spend time together doing the things they enjoy – op-shopping, hiking, watching movies. Think about ways they can enjoy their interests at home – cook a meal or watch a movie together.

3. Value them for who they are right now

Young people want to feel valued as an important part of the family and have their individuality and ideas respected. They are used to adult opinions being valued above their own and appreciate you taking their views seriously and being willing to change your mind. Our research revealed different ways to show you respect and accept them. Young people want you to accept their friends, notice their strengths, and be trusted with subject and career choices. They definitely do not want to be compared to their siblings.

4. Balance freedom and boundaries

For many young people, being given independence is a sign of trust and helps them feel more connected.

Even young people recognise they can

be given too much independence and, in the long term, see reasonable boundaries as a sign of care.

Negotiate fair boundaries with your young person, develop mutually agreed consequences and talk things through calmly when things do not go to plan.

You don’t have to do it alone

I often hear parents express guilt about how they parent. But parents are not solely responsible for family connection. Young people and the wider family also play an important role.

Supportive relationships with siblings, extended family and close friends extend their network of support. You can support and encourage these relationships with others by keeping communication open and suggesting opportunities to spend time together.

Hang in there!

Do not let your idea of adolescent independence stop you from engaging with the young people in your life – they value staying connected with family, even if they do not always show it.

Even if connections have become strained, most young people will be open to new efforts to connect. As they grow, you can think about moving towards interdependence and a more mutually supportive relationship.

And just like the younger stages of infancy and childhood, this too shall pass. As teenagers move towards adulthood, most young people will become clearer and more expressive about how they value you and your relationship. l

Elise Woodman is a Social Work Researcher and Lecturer, Australian Catholic University

BE EQUITY SMART

3 Ways to Earn Some Spare Cash to Help Pay Your Mortgage Down Faster

BY EQUITY SMART REALTY INC

Amortgage is one of the most expensive purchases you'll make in your life, and for many the idea of being indebted to it for years can seem like quite a burden. However, while you won't necessarily be able to pay off your home with instant savings, there are ways that you can pay it down more quickly. If you're wondering how to drum up some extra money for your mortgage, you may want to consider the following options.

Refinance Your Mortgage

One of the best ways to get a hold of extra funds is by lowering the amount you owe, and refinancing can be a way to do this. Since the interest rate on your mortgage adds up to additional money spent over time, getting a lower rate can easily minimize your monthly mortgage payment. It's just important to be aware of all the costs associated with refinancing beforehand so that you can be sure the choice will result in money saved and an improved financial outlook.

Review Your Budget

Budget may be a dirty word for many people, but when it comes to scrimping for your home, it may be one of the best weapons you have in paying down your mortgage. Instead of looking elsewhere, sit down and review your budget to ensure your expenditures aren't out of line with your income. It may seem too good to be true but, in all likelihood, you'll be able to find a few places you can cut back for a little extra money each month.

Get A Second Job

It may not be the best option if you're already working hard at your day job, but getting a job on the side can end up being a great way to find extra cash without

limiting your lifestyle. Whether you decide to work in a restaurant or pick up a freelance gig on the side, there are plenty of options that may quickly add up to a more-rapidly reduced principal. You may even want to find something you already enjoy so it feels less like work.

Guidance

The idea of paying down your home more quickly may seem out of reach, but by reconsidering your budget and considering other employment, you may be able to hustle up some additional funds for your investment. If you're preparing for home ownership and are considering your mortgage options, you may want to contact one of our professionals for more information. Call 888-670-6791.l

Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates

Addressing Personal Injury from Car Accidents in New York

BY LINDA NWOKE

Across the United States, vehicle accidents are the leading cause of personal injury claims. In a year, an average of 4.5 million people seek medical treatment for car accidents. These injuries range from minor bruises and scrapes to permanent disability and death. If you or someone in your family has been injured or killed in a car accident in New York City, you should consult with the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates. We are a law firm wellknown for our track record of litigation success in car accident cases. Our experienced personal injury attorneys have won large settlements for victims of car injuries.

Numerous examples of settlements on personal injury cases from vehicle accident lawsuits exist. For instance, there is a case against the City of New York for failing to repair a flooded roadway, which caused the motorist's accident and resulted in brain injuries.

A 35-year-old driver struck by another car that needed surgery filed a case for compensation for the treatment of injuries to her lumbar spine. Similarly, a 45-yearold passenger in her lane who stopped at a traffic light was hit from the rear. She required surgery on her neck and back.

Car accidents are commonplace in New York City, sometimes leading to traffic jams. They are more frequent during the weekday, especially around rush hours— lunchtime and evening commute leading to several crashes. Overall, thousands of vehicle crashes in New York State, with an average of 30 hits per hour around the Empire state.

Car Accident Statistics by Borough

The statistics of vehicle-rated accidents across the five boroughs in New York City show that Brooklyn (Kings County)

and Queens have the highest traffic-related deaths. Bronx county records slightly higher deaths than New York County. At the same time, Staten Island has the least number and is considered the least dangerous place. Interestingly most hospitalizations and death occur among pedestrians, while the vehicle occupants often end up seeking emergency treatment.

Types of Accidents in New York City

The frequently seen type of accident in New City is collisions between passenger vehicles. The most occurring factors are violating traffic laws and distracted driving. Another common accident in the city is pedestrian accidents, which have been traced to speeding, distracted driving, failing to see pedestrians, or yielding to someone in a crosswalk. Car-bicycle collisions are also a significant cause of death in the city. An average of 3,800 bicycle-vehicle crashes in 2019 resulted in injuries or death to bicyclists.

What to Do After a Car Accident

Most vehicle collisions are unexpected and brutal, with most victims feeling confused in the event's aftermath. Hence, the actions taken afterward can have both financial and health-related repercussions.

Most personal injury cases from car accidents in New York are settled out of court. In contrast, some cases go to trial and are heard by a jury or judge. In cases where the driver was negligent, the victim may receive compensation for their experience of pain and suffering. However, many factors considered in passing judgment include providing irrefutable evidence that the injury was caused by accident and that the victim suffered a significant loss due to the accident.

Types of Personal Injury Occurring from Car Crash

In general, life for many car accident victims is never the same. While the impact can range from mild to severe, victims sometimes must endure long-term medical treatments, including physical and psychological therapy. Some of the injuries caused by car accidents include soft tissue and bone injuries and traumatic brain injuries.

Some of these injuries are life-changing because they can take a long time before healing and is beside the unimaginable effect these accidents have on the victim's family members. However, the state of New York has laws that address some of the victims of personal injury from car accidents.

No-fault' Insurance In New York

The No-fault insurance, also referred to as "Personal Injury Protection" (PIP) insurance, was approved by the state's lawmakers in the 70s. Car insurance lowers the cost of auto insurance by settling small claims outside the courts. The insurance companies handle paying the cost of up to $50,000 on behalf of their policyholders to victims. This will cover simple items like minor injuries, lost earnings, and medical bills, irrespective of who caused the accident. However, some conditions can make a person ineligible for a no-fault benefit. They include driving under the influence, intentional accidents, committing a felony, getting injured while riding in a stolen vehicle, and having an uninsured vehicle. However, under New York State laws, a legal settlement can still be pursued over the victim's pain and suffering, injuries, and loss of personal property.

New York's Statute of Limitations

It is worth noting that when an individual sustains a personal injury from an accident, there is a three-year gap to file a case before the state of New York. Therefore, when an individual is seriously injured in a vehicle accident, the amount of time they must file a claim after a car accident is up to three years from the date of the accident. It is expedient for the injured person to seek medical treatment soon after the accident and legal advice from a car accident lawyer to review their case.

Factors that Affect a Car Accident Settlement's Value

There is no uniform agreement or guideline on settling car accident settlements cases. Sometimes out-of-court settlements from accidents can be reached with the attorney. In the case that goes to trial,

continued on page 2

QUEENS, NEW YORK - JULY 2: Car wreck on Vernon Boulevard Taken July 2, 2014 in Queens, NY. Editorial credit: eddtoro / Shutterstock.com

The Most Common Car Crash Injuries in New York

Various reports from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) shows that car accidents cause the second-most common injury among New York residents. Traffic accidents cause more injuries and deaths, leading to a high number of hospitalizations and a high number of visits to the emergency department visits. More than 1,900 New York residents die each year from fatal injuries caused by traffic accidents. Among them are many pedestrians (over 300), drivers and passengers (over 290), motorcyclists (over 100), bicyclists (over 30), and many unspecified persons.

Concerning hospitalizations from traffic-related injuries, more than 12,000 New Yorkers become patients each year, with the most significant number of drivers and passengers (6000+) as victims. Many pedestrians (3000+) and motorcyclists (1500+) make up most of the victims. More than 136,000 New York State Residents are reportedly treated and released from an emergency department each year due to traffic-related injuries, with the occupants making up the highest number of patients.

The Most Prevalent Car Crash Injuries in New York

Accidents have various types and levels of impact on drivers, passengers, and beyond. For vehicle occupants, some of the most common injuries among victims of a car crash in New York are bonerelated, internal, and psychological injuries. Referencing the data by the National Highway Safety Administration (NHSA), some of the frequently occurring injuries are:

Bone Injuries: Neck, Knee, Back, Hip, Wrist, and other forms of broken bones in the body.

Broken Bones: A common, severe, and long-term type of injury sustained from car accidents in New York. It results from the strain against the seatbelt, blunt force trauma, and the crush between the car components and the surrounding environment. The arms and legs are often broken as they are least protected during a crash.

Whiplash/ Neck injuries: This is another common injury from accidents in New York. Upon impact, the head is forced to bend and thrash around differently, causing muscles and ligaments to tear along the neck.

Back or Spine Injuries: The back muscles are often torn, and victims experience dislocated discs due to the jolt to the body during the crash. This is because the spine experiences severe strain and stress.

Knee Injuries: This is a common injury found among drivers and front-side passengers who are slammed into the dashboard, glove box, or steering wheel, causing severe injuries to the surrounding bones, ligaments, and the knee's patella.

Hip Injuries: The hip bone gets injured when the victims are hit from the side of the car during a crash, especially in a Tbone or side-swiping accident. Often, the upper body is thrashed and bends to one side, causing dislocation or ruptured areas of the hip.

Accidents from Head-on Collisions: These accidents also result in hip injuries. In this case, the victim's weight suddenly shifts forward, putting a strain on the lower part of the seat belt across the lap, causing severe hip injuries.

Soft Tissue Injuries: Although not typically life-threatening, soft tissue injuries which affect the eyes, mouth, skin, and other soft tissue are among the most painful and long-term injuries obtained from traffic accidents in New York.

Stomach Injuries: The injuries to the stomach are caused by the seatbelt. They are mostly experienced as internal bleeding in the gut. They are not easily detected because the pain from these can be delayed for an extended period.

Nerve Damage: When the deep tissues are affected by blunt force trauma during an accident, the nerves can be damaged by debris, or exposed components, leading to partial or total loss of function in affected areas, either temporarily or permanently.

Chest Pain: Chest pains indicate many injuries following the car crash. The injuries are in the form of panic or heart attacks, rib cage or abdominal bruises, or more. These pains can also be delayed and arise afterward, depending on the type of injury causing the pain.

Emotional Suffering: Some emotional pain caused by traffic accidents result in anger, depression, and fear. Mood changes indicate traumatic brain trauma injuries from a car accident.

Psychological Trauma: Psychological trauma often occurs among the survivors of car accidents, and it is not related to the accident's severity. Victims often develop post-traumatic stress and other forms of association between driving and pain, fear, and sadness.

What Causes Car Accidents in New York?

Several factors lead to a car accident. However, in New York, car crashes are linked to two significant factors, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and Drowsy Driving.

Driving While Intoxicated

Drunk driving is a significant offense

among New York drivers, and many accidents have been attributed to drunk driving. In 2018, official data from New York State government reported that over 8,900 casualties were linked to alcohol intake. The amount of alcoholic content in a driver's blood impairs the ability to stay alert, focused, and attentive while driving. In New York State, the blood alcohol percentage (BAC) allowed is up to 0.18% while going, which is the equivalent of one drink. Anything above that number attracts a fine of over $1000, a one-year jail sentence, or license revocation in some instances. This is ultimately one of the leading causes of pedestrian injuries in New York.

Drowsy Driving

In 2018, New York State Traffic Safety Statistical Repository (TSSR) reported that over 4,000 drivers fell asleep behind the wheel, especially in late-night crashes. It is considered even more dangerous than driving while intoxicated. Some of the effects of drowsy driving are impaired decision-making, slow reactionary time, and lowered attention to other road users. Hence driving becomes a danger to both self and other road users.

Settling Car Accident Injuries in New York

It is common practice for cases relating to a car accident to be settled in New York without trial. Many insurance companies will offer to resolve accident cases quickly. These settlements are much smaller than the amount a victim can receive post legal representation and compensation in court. Some typical settlements determined by courts include car repair costs, medical bills (past and future), lost wages, and time away from work.

However, suppose there is no injury from the collision. In that case, New York Law will not allow the victim to file a lawsuit against another person, even if the victim's car was damaged.

In delayed injuries, the victim can file a lawsuit for delayed damages even if they have passed the standard limit established by the statute of limitations but with a solid legal representation. Different car accidents create higher risks of sustaining specific injuries and can be used to determine the person at fault during a collision.

Legal Assistance

If you're being sued after a car accident, you need the services of an effective defense attorney who will help you build a solid chance to prove that you were at minimal fault for the accident. Contact the experienced Personal Injury Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates which can also help you prevent the issue from reaching the payout stage. Call 855-7688845 l

Personal Injury from Car

Accidents/continued from page 1

ments from accidents can be reached with the attorney. In the case that goes to trial, the jury considers all aspects of damages — economic, non-economic, and punitive, especially in accidents caused by distracted driving and recklessness.

The amount of settlement awarded in New York State is determined by percentage. For instance, it can be agreed that the driver is 80% at fault. At the same time, the other such as occupants, etc., is 20% at fault, otherwise known as pure comparative negligence. They are determining the cost of medical treatment. All the documentation associated with the medical expenses during or after the accident must be considered for claims.

In determining the severity of personal injuries, settlements are largely determined by the level of the injury and seriousness of the damage. A minor damage will receive less money than a permanent, chronic, or severe injury. Furthermore, the jury also reviews other factors during a trial, such as the worth of the other party's insurance, i.e., how much the other party's insurance policy carries. To determine if the person who caused the presenting situation that led to the car accident doesn't take high-value insurance coverage. All these require an expert view to help determine alternatives to obtaining an insurance claim or other revenue sources that will enable the defendant to provide a payout.

Therefore, some factors that influence compensation after a car accident are the law of shared fault and negligence, the number of economic damages, the severity of injuries, and the auto insurance policy limits. Most cases need legal support and expert advice, especially from personal injury attorneys.

Legal Assistance

A personal injury attorney specializes in helping victims obtain settlements by providing legal assistance and advice after a car crash. The attorneys at the Personal Injury Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates possess a wide range of experience and the expertise needed to advocate for victims who have been placed in vulnerable positions from a car accident. Call us at 855-768-8845 or schedule an appointment at www.askthelawyer.us l

Do I Need a Lawyer After Being

in a Car Accident?

BY CHRIS TOBIAS

After being injured in a car accident that was caused by the carelessness and negligence of somebody else, you might ask whether it's in your best interests to retain a car accident lawyer to represent you. In most cases, the answer is yes, you should.

That's because it's inevitable that disagreements will arise with the opposing insurance company during the processing of your claim. They're likely to involve issues on liability, damages, or how much money the insurer should pay to compensate you for your injuries and damages fully. An experienced and effective car accident lawyer at the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates will know how to respond to any such disagreements while preserving and protecting your rights during the claim or litigation process.

The Opposing Insurer Will Try to Devalue Your Case

Auto Insurance companies make money by depositing premium payments made by their customers and investing that

money to make even more money. Then, when liability claims are made against their customers, they search for ways to minimize the sums they'll need to pay accident victims or even not pay them anything. An accomplished car accident lawyer can help prevent such tactics while protecting their client's right to full compensation.

You're Likely to Make Mistakes When Representing Yourself

Every car insurance company has its teams of trained adjusters and defense lawyers who seem threatening and intimidating to victims who are continuing to recover from their injuries. The last thing you want to do during your recovery is to argue with an opposing adjuster and chase around for records, bills, and

reports from your healthcare providers or other entities. You might even be on prescription medication when the opposing insurer's adjuster phones you and requests more information. Your attorney can attend to any calls or chasing for you. They know when to put an end to it, too.

Don't Give a Statement of Any Kind

It's not uncommon for a car accident victim to be contacted by an insurance company's adjuster before they are even capable of consulting with an attorney. The adjuster might ask for a recorded statement from the victim for purported purposes of wrapping up the claim and getting rid of it.

Giving such a statement is often the biggest mistake an unrepresented accident victim can make. The law doesn't

require the victim to do that without an attorney being present on their behalf. No matter how pressured you might feel, never give any written or recorded statement to an opposing insurance company without an attorney being present on your behalf. That adjuster already knows what happened. They have already spoken with the person who caused your accident and even have a copy of the police accident report in front of them when phoning you.

Even the most successful car accident lawyers offer prospective new clients free consultations and case reviews. They also take cases on a contingency fee basis, so no out-of-pocket money must be paid for them to represent you.

Consulting with and retaining such an attorney as soon as possible after a car accident caused by somebody else will assure that your right to compensation for the injuries and damages you suffered will be preserved, protected, and asserted. Contact the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates at 855-768-8845 or www.askthelawyer.us before the opposing insurer contacts you.l

Children & Car Accidents: Reducing the Risks!

BY CHRIS TOBIAS

According to statistics, car accidents are among the leading cause of deaths among children in the USA. About 45% of deaths among children are because of car accidents. What can you do if there is a car accident involving your child? During this difficult time, you need a strong advocate on your side like the attorneys at the Personal Injury Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates.

How can we deal with the greater risks that children face when it comes to car accidents? Child victims in car accidents can be placed in two categories. There are those who are passengers and there are those who are pedestrians. It is important to realize that a lack of precautionary measures has been the main reason for child victims of car accidents in both scenarios. Children need keen supervision whenever they are walking along the road, crossing a road or in any other situation where they are interacting with traffic. Further, they need to be looked after when in transit aboard a vehicle and the necessary precautions

taken so as to ensure they remain safe under any circumstances.

For child pedestrians the following measures can help reduce the risk of accidents among children.

1.Close supervision of children at all times when near a road.

2.Training of children in road safety and teaching them safe road use.

3.Educating drivers and other road users on “Child safe road use.”

Reducing the risk to child passengers can be done by taking the following steps:

1.Always ensure that the child is safely secured in the vehicle.

2.Discourage risky activities and play while on board a car.

3.Avoid any showmanship and road rage as you drive because this will set a poor example for the children in your vehicle.

4.Train the children on safety while on board a vehicle.

While these measures will not eliminate child victims of car accidents, they will greatly reduce the risk children face while traveling along the roads or when in a car.

What Can You Do?

A personal injury attorney specializes in helping victims obtain settlements by providing legal assistance and advice after a car crash. The attorneys at the Personal Injury Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates possess a wide range of experience and the expertise needed to advocate for children who have been in car accidents. Call us at 855-768-8845 or schedule an appointment at www.askthelawyer.usl

Mistakes to Avoid

If you or a loved one were in a car accident, please avoid the following mistakes:

Delaying or neglecting to seek medical treatment

A common mistake personal injury victims make is failing to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Making untruthful statements about your injuries

One of the biggest mistakes a victim can make in a personal injury case is to lie about or exaggerate the extent of their injuries.

Failure to secure legal representation

That's one of the biggest mistakes you can make. It will cost you big time.

Speaking with insurance companies without legal representation

Insurance companies are mainly concerned with protecting their interests, meaning minimizing the compensation they pay out for personal injury claims. When one talks directly with an insurance company, they may inadvertently provide information that the insurance company can use to deny or reduce the value of their claim. Statements can be taken out of context or used against you in court.l

The Long-Term Economic Benefits and Dynamic Impact of Migrants

BY AMERICA’S VOICE

Washington, DC: A new article in The New York Times, “As Politicians Cry ‘Crisis,’ Some Migrants Are Finding Their Way,” offers an important reminder that the short term stresses and budget impacts from migrants on New York City that get a great deal of media and political attention only tell part of the story. Whatever the short-run costs and adjustments, economists continue to observe that they are more than made up for by their long-term positive economic and social impact on the city and country. Meanwhile, the story in the Times portrays the real stories and potential successes of the individuals behind the headlines, who are too often dehumanized or aggregated into faceless and nameless statistics.

According to Vanessa Cárdenas, Executive Director of America’s Voice: “We all know New York isn’t New York without immigrants and the current cohort of migrants are no different. Immigrants are an asset, essential and, as always, are keeping the economy dynam-

ic and growing in New York City and throughout the U.S. The short term stresses of cities and states gets a lot of attention and opponents of immigration want that to be the focus. But the bigger picture is that for New York and countless other cities, each migrant has a story and a unique contribution to the overall fabric of the city and its economy. Policies aimed exclusively at preventing migration or pushing migrants into a black mar-

ket of smuggling and living underground are not serving the country well. It is in our self-interest to find the balance of a controlled system of migration, a recommitment to integrating and incorporating immigrants fully into our communities, and tapping the economic potential that powers American society today and throughout our history.”

Here are excerpts from The New York Times article,“As Politicians Cry ‘Crisis,’

Some

Migrants Are Finding Their Way,” below:

“Mayor Eric Adams begged for federal help, disparaged President Biden and warned that the city was being ‘destroyed.’

But unseen and unheard were economists and social scientists, who point out that the immediate controversy has overshadowed an established truth: The city was built by waves of migrants who settled in, paid taxes, buttressed a labor force, started businesses and generally lifted the communities they joined. This latest group will do the same, they argued.

Without immigrants, New York City would be shrinking. Even if New York never recovers what it spends now, the economists and historians say, the migrants will eventually be good for the city.

…‘Yes, for a little while, maybe some of them need a little assistance,’ said Giovanni Peri, an economist at the University of California, Davis. ‘But if you take a deep breath, you see that

continued on page 14

IMMIGRATION

Record Demand for US H-2B Temporary Workers Visas

BY HARRY JOHNSON ETURBO NEWS

The United States Department of Labor announced that it received more H-2B Temporary NonAgricultural Workers Visa applications for the year’s first-half allotment than total visas available.

H-2B program allows US employers who meet specific requirements to bring foreign nationals to the US to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs.

In response to this announcement about record-setting demand for H-2B visas amid sustained workforce shortage, US Travel Association issued the following statement:

“The overwhelming demand for H-2B worker visas—the earliest the first-half cap has ever been met—is further proof that this highly successful program should expand to meet workforce demand. With nearly 10 million job openings across the U.S. economy, and 1.4 million in the leisure and hospitality sector alone, there are simply not enough American workers to meet hiring needs.

“The federal government can address these critical workforce shortages—and spur the U.S. economy—by increasing

the cap on H-2B temporary worker visas.”

The H-2B program allows US employers or US agents who meet specific regulatory requirements to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs.

A US employer or US agent as described in the regulations, must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, on a prospective worker’s behalf.l

Harry Johnson has been the assignment editor for eTurboNews for more than 20 years. He lives in Honolulu, Hawaii, and is originally from Europe. He enjoys writing and covering the news.

Impact of Migrants/continued from page 13

American cities will benefit from these people who are coming to work.’

In the long run, economists and historians see a familiar picture: A spike in immigration stirs heated political debate, even as people who immigrate, both legally and illegally, begin to set down roots and start contributing economically.

‘Immigration is integral to the nation’s economic growth,’ according to a National Academy of Sciences report published by 29 of the nation’s top economists and demographers.

‘It’s very hard to find an economist who doesn’t think that,’ said Tara Watson, an economist at Williams College.

…The path of Ms. Antolinez and her husband, Darwin Valbuena, is already tracking with economists’ expectations for migrants. The family fled San Cristobal, a small city in Venezuela, over a year and half ago, after a bodega they owned was struck by robbers. Ms. Antolinez was seven months pregnant.

After crossing into California, the couple applied for asylum, flew to LaGuardia airport, and in January 2022 moved into the two-bedroom apartment of Rut Ostos, an Evangelical pastor who had married them back home.

Now, with hustle and a little help, the family has gained a toehold in New York City.

A member of Ms. Ostos’s church offered the Valbuenas a four-bedroom apartment in Corona that they rent with two other families. Mr. Valbuena, a former professional soccer player, has two soccer coaching jobs and plans to open his own soccer academy.

…‘I had nothing,’ Cristina said of her arrival in New York. Until, she added, ‘I found a community that has helped me.’”l

Ayesha Curry Launches Sweet July

Skin Inspired by Caribbean Roots

OAKLAND, Calif., July 11, 2023

/PRNewswire/:

Ayesha Curry, Founder and CEO of lifestyle brand Sweet July, announced today the launch of her first-ever skincare line – Sweet July Skin. A natural extension of the Sweet July brand, Sweet July Skin is a celebration of Ayesha's Jamaican roots, featuring clean, simple and effective products that offer a sensory experience to treat your skin to an island vacation.

Utilizing Ayesha's culinary expertise, Sweet July Skin features formulated "recipes" that embrace the power of Caribbean ingredients, such as guava, papaya, and soursop. The new line of clean formulas combine the sensorially rich properties of these superfoods with hardworking actives to provide efficacy and proven results. The result is simple yet effective products that transform your daily skincare regimen into a private self care retreat.

"Throughout my life, I've learned a lot about skincare and the natural benefits derived from superfoods like papaya and guava from my mother and grandmother," said Ayesha Curry. "In pairing those

ingredients with proven actives, we've developed a skincare experience that is great for your skin but also truly enjoyable. I'm excited to share a little bit of my Jamaican culture with everyone through these products."

Launching with the Pava Exfoliating Cleanser, Pava Toner, and Irie Power Face Oil, Sweet July Skin features a nutrient-rich blend of natural ingredients to reveal smoother, brighter and hydrated skin. As a women-led company, Sweet July Skin is proud to partner with Girls Inc. of Alameda County, an organization headquartered in Oakland, CA that is dedicated to empowering young girls and helping them realize their full potential. When customers make a purchase on the Sweet July Skin website, they have the opportunity to round up their total to donate to this impactful cause. l

Kitchen Corner

Cobb Salad

This Cobb salad has some of my favorite ingredients: chicken, egg, tomatoes, blue cheese, and avocado. Barrett, AllRecipes.com

Ingredients

6 slices bacon

3 eggs

1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded

3 cups chopped, cooked chicken meat

2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped

¾ cup blue cheese, crumbled

3 green onions, chopped

1 avocado - peeled, pitted and diced

1 (8 ounce) bottle Ranch-style salad dressing

Directions

Step 1

Place eggs in a saucepan and cover completely with cold water; bring to a boil, then cover and remove from heat. Let eggs sit for 10 to 12 minutes, then cool, peel and chop.

Step 2

While the eggs are cooking, place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until evenly brown, 7 to 10 minutes. Drain, crumble, and set aside.

Step 3

Divide shredded lettuce among individual plates. Top with rows of bacon, eggs, chicken, tomatoes, blue cheese, green onions, and avocado.

Step 4

Drizzle with dressingl

Nutrition Facts

Per serving: 525 calories; total fat 40g; saturated fat 10g; cholesterol 179mg; sodium 915mg; total carbohydrate 10g; dietaryn fiber 4g; total sugars 5g; protein 32g; vitamin c 13mg; calcium 153mg; iron 2mg; potassium 720mg

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

Courtesy of Peter Ash Lee for Sweet July Skin

PAHO Convenes Health and Foreign Affairs Authorities for Second Meeting on Future Pandemic Agreement

Washington, DC, (PAHO): The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is bringing together authorities from its 35 Member States in the U.S. capital this week to discuss the key components and implications on the Region of the future pandemic instrument, as well as the proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR-2005). The aim of the meeting is to share information, promote better understanding and facilitate consensus.

Both processes are driven and led by the Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) and seek to ensure that the health, social and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is not repeated, and that the world is better prepared to prevent or respond to future pandemics through increased collaboration, exchange, and high-level political commitment.

"Member States have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to approve a new instrument and amendments to the IHR2005 to set the basis of a safer world for all humanity," said Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, in a video message at the

opening of the meeting. "It is essential that Member States continue to engage actively in the deliberations in Geneva, ensuring proper interaction and alignment between their respective capitals and permanent missions,” he said.

Until Wednesday, representatives of the Ministries of Health and Foreign Affairs of the countries of the Americas will participate in the second meeting convened by the PAHO Director to "facilitate their meaningful participation" in the deliberations. The meeting also includes mem-

bers of countries’ permanent missions to the United Nations in Geneva and to the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington.

In December 2021, the World Health Assembly established the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) to draft and negotiate a convention, agreement, or other international instrument within the framework of the WHO Constitution to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. This will be submitted for

approval in 2024.

Last year, the World Health Assembly created a working group of Member States to examine the proposed amendments to the IHR, a legally binding agreement to prevent the international spread of disease. The IHR was previously amended in 2014, to extend for life the validity of the yellow fever vaccination certificate, and in 2022, to reduce the duration of entry into force of future amendments from 24 to 12 months. The face-to-face meeting in Washington is being held in preparation for the Sixth meeting of the INB (July 17-21) and the Fourth meeting of the IHR Working Group (July 24-28), when delegates from all WHO Member States will continue in-depth discussions on the preliminary draft pandemic instrument, chapter by chapter, as well as proposed amendments to the IHR (2005).

An effective pandemic agreementbased on solidarity among countries - is expected to help ensure that health personnel worldwide are better equipped for the next pandemic, and that the production and distribution of vaccines and other medical products is more equitable. It also aims to ensure effective early detection and response measures against potential pandemic pathogens, and to improve the response capabilities of health, laboratory and research services, among other objectives.l

Photo courtesy: PAHO

Who Keeps the Engagement Ring After a Breakup? 2 Law Professors Explain Why You Might Want a Prenup for Your Diamond

BY NAOMI CAHN & JULIA D. MAHONEY THE CONVERSATION

When Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck got engaged the first time, in 2002, he gave her a very pricey ring. That engagement ring was reportedly worth as much as $2.5 million, made by luxury jeweler Harry Winston and adorned with a 6.1-carat pink diamond.

After the movie stars broke up in 2004 without getting married, J. Lo said she intended to return the ring “quietly” to Affleck. Whether or she ever did that or not, was Lopez entitled to keep the that rock or any of the others she got from her numerous ex-husbands and former fiancés?

The answer can matter to anyone who is engaged, married – or even thinking about tying the knot. No one knows for sure how many engagements end in a breakup, although there are estimates that roughly 1 in 5 do so.

As law professors who teach property and family law, we frequently talk to students – and our own relatives – about gifts and marriage. Students often ask us who owns the engagement ring if couples don’t get married or if they eventually divorce. They also want to know what happens if the ring is stolen.

Analysis of the world, from experts

While taxes, laws and insurance are not very sexy topics, marriage has never been only about romance. It’s also a partnership with economic repercussions.

Rare before the 20th century Engagement rings were fairly rare until

about 100 years ago, even though the first diamond engagement ring was apparently given by Emperor Maximilian to Mary of Burgundy in 1377. But it wasn’t until the end of the Great Depression that a sophisticated advertising campaign created a market for diamond engagement rings in the United States.

By 1940, 10% of brides received diamond rings. That share jumped to 80% by 1990.

Perhaps propelled by the belief that a ring should cost as much as a man earns in three months, expensive diamond engagement rings grew in popularity from 1935 to 1965.

No recourse for jilted grooms

Law professor Margaret Brinig has found that legal changes coincided with the new customs around the mid-20th century.

Specifically, Brinig points to the abolition of the lawsuits known as “breach of promise” actions, which could be filed after broken engagements.

That is, brides could keep rings – even expensive ones – without getting married.

This new convention, Brinig has written, could have served as a form of compensation if the bride had lost her virginity after getting engaged. Should the marriage not happen, she’d at least have something of value to hold onto.

No-fault engagements?

In the second half of the 20th century, U.S. divorce laws changed, and courts stopped determining who was to blame when married couples broke up. In what came to be known as no-fault divorce, neither spouse had to prove the other had cheated or been cruel to them.

And, as law professor Rebecca Tushnet documents, many courts have applied a similar “no-fault” framework to broken engagements. That means it doesn’t matter who broke it off, or why.

In addressing that rule in 1997, three judges on a Pennsylvania superior court drew on the story of Adam and Eve, meandered into Roman times and then announced “the gift of the ring to [the bride] at the time of their betrothal was subject to an implied condition requiring its return if the marriage did not take place.”

And that was in a case in which a man who had proposed to his girlfriend called off the engagement twice.

Courts in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi and other states have issued similar rulings.

Are they arguing over who gets to keep the ring?

Engagement Ring/

continued from page 18

Different states, different stakes

But the Supreme Court of Montana held in 2002 that an ex-fiancée could keep her engagement ring after a breakup. Noting that women “often still assume the bulk of pre-wedding costs,” the court expressed concerns that treating engagement rings as gifts conditional upon marriage could perpetuate gender bias.

And a Texas court ruled a year later that someone who gave an engagement ring to his fiancée and then later called off the wedding was not entitled to its return.

In California, a state law enacted in 1939 provides that the ring must be returned if the marriage is broken off by mutual consent or the person who received an engagement ring initiates the breakup.

Regardless of where you live, if you’re legally obligated to return an engagement ring and fail to do so, you may be on the hook for monetary damages. This can lead to financial hardship when rings are lost, stolen or intentionally thrown away.

Tax consequences

If one person keeps the ring after a breakup, there may be gift tax consequences for the person who bought the ring. But that’s only if the ring costs more than $17,000, and there are a lot of vari-

ables and loopholes that can reduce the chances that a jilted ex would ever owe any money to the Internal Revenue Service.

Anyone can make gifts worth up to $17,000 per year, as of 2023, to anyone else without incurring consequences. Gifts worth more than that threshold are officially subject to a gift tax, and the IRS requires that taxpayers report the amount of those gifts annually.

As of 2023, taxpayers also may give away gifts totaling $12.92 million during their whole lifetimes, or after death in their wills, with no tax-related consequences.

But gifts of $17,000 or more will eat into that credit.

Planning ahead

Anyone who gets engaged can insure a ring.

And while no readers should see this article as a source of personal legal advice, we do note that engaged couples can set their own rules. Courts will generally enforce written agreements reached between two people who plan on getting married that stipulate who gets the ring after a breakup.

Couples can draft or sign a ring-related contract, particularly if that piece of jewelry has great sentimental or monetary

value.

We understand that such paperwork might not materialize during a time of bended knees and joyful celebration. We also get that what people do with their rings when an engagement is called off isn’t just a matter of what the law requires.

Few such lawsuits

Perhaps not surprisingly, we have found relatively few cases in which someone sued an ex over this issue.

Not even Ben Affleck did that. Had he tried to sue J. Lo in 2004 in a California court, he might have won. But his success would have turned on how the engagement ended.

Besides, as you may have heard, the high-profile couple reunited in 2021 and married in 2022.

The second engagement ring Affleck gave Lopez is reportedly worth $5 million – probably double that of the first one. J. Lo gets to keep that huge, rare green diamond forever now that she’s saying her name is Mrs. Jennifer Lynne Affleck.l

855-768-8845

Naomi Cahn is a Professor of Law, University of Virginia. Julia D. Mahoney is a Professor of Law, University of Virginia

A celebrity’s engagement ring can cost millions of dollars.

Tourism Resilience/

continued from page 1 currency import under the guidance of this driven man.

Today, he was interviewed at UN headquarters in New York City at the HighLevel Political Forum’s (HLPF’s) official side event on Economic, Social, and Environmental Sustainability in Tourism, where he explained what tourism resilience is truly all about. The question posed to him was:

In this context of championing tourism resilience, can you share with us the challenges and opportunities that you are facing as a tourism minister to put tourism front and center in efforts for achieving the SGDs.

His Response

When I think of the relationship between tourism and the SGDs, these key issues of sustainability come to mind- social inclusiveness, gender equality, inclusive economic growth; community development, decent work; poverty reduction; resource efficiency, environmental protection and cultural and heritage retention.

The tourism sector has demonstrated its enormous potential to deliver results in relation to several of these goals. In the context of Jamaica, tourism remains one of the most labor-intensive sectors of the national economy and generates jobs not only in the sector, but through its value

chain in many other sectors such as cultural industries, agriculture, construction, manufacturing, transportation, entertainment, handicrafts, health, financial services or information and communication technologies. Indeed, Tourism is the lifeblood of many marginalized rural communities in Jamaica where it is often the only viable economic sector generating mass employment for residents and income opportunities for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. Ultimately, by keeping thousands of Jamaicans employed and earning wages that stimulate consumption in the broader national economy, tourism is a significant catalyst of poverty reduction.

The tourism sector also promotes social inclusiveness and inclusive economic growth by generating a wide range of employment opportunities for Jamaicans across all age ranges, skill levels, educational levels, social and economic classes and geographical locations. These persons are employed in diverse areas such

as concierge, reservations, food and beverage, operations management, information and technology, human resource management, accounting and cost control, grounds & maintenance, entertainment, transportation, housekeeping, security etc. Also, since more than 60 % of tourism workers are women, the sector also contributes positively to the economic empowerment of thousands of women, especially rural women, who would have otherwise had limited avenues for income generation.

An Island Nation Exemplifies Tourism

Jamaica’s tourism product is also considerably culture and heritage-based. Its mass appeal lies in its expansive range of cultural/heritage assets that have been converted into tourism products and offerings such as national landmarks, heritage sites, museums, festivals, music, art and craft, local cuisine. This ultimately means that the competitiveness and sustainability of the country’s tourism

product is crucially linked to the preservation and protection of indigenous cultures and heritage.

Notwithstanding these positive attributes of the country’s tourism product, I will be the first to admit that there are long-standing challenges that present implications for the transition of the tourism sector to sustainability. The tourism product remains largely undiversified. Resort development in still heavily concentrated in coastal areas; revolving around the “sand, sun and sea” concept. Consequently, the tourism sector continues to place a heavy burden on dwindling land-based and marine ecosystems. The pace of transition to the adoption of renewable and green energies is admittedly slow and the tourism experience is still largely built around the promotion of laissez faire practices that emphasize excessively indulgent and unlimited behaviors among tourists, which doesn’t necessarily bode well for the promotion of goals linked to environmental sustainability such as sustainable consumption and resource conservation. Generally, tourism development in SIDs such as Jamaica typically highlight the difficulty of balancing economic development with environmental sustainability since the tourism product in these countries is considerably based on the exploitation of depleting natural resources.l

This is an excerpt.

Read the full story at cawnyc.com

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Editorial credit: Yevgen Belich / Shutterstock.com

Are You Ready to Start Your Podcast for Your Business, Non-Profit or Passion?

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

POLITICS

How Insurgent Chris Banks Toppled the Barrons’ Stronghold in East New York — For Now

BY GWYNNE HOGAN THE CITY

The first time Chris Banks, a lifelong East New York resident, challenged the Barron political family, he was a 28-year-old working at an after-school program in the Pink Houses. It was 2012 and Banks had decided to run against Inez Barron, wife of Charles Barron, for the state’s 60th District Assembly seat.

“Her first year and a half she was just nowhere to be seen,” Banks told THE CITY. “We were getting absentee representation and I wanted to change that.”

He ran — and lost, by 598 votes out of 5,314 cast.

But Banks wasn’t deterred. Over the next decade he challenged the Barrons another four times in elections for Assembly and district leader seats, culminating in what appeared to be a victory over Charles Barron Tuesday evening for a City Council seat in District 42.

Unofficial election night results from the New York City Board of Elections had Banks up by 437 votes above Barron, of 5,958 ballots cast.

“This has been an ongoing journey to bring about new leadership in the East

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New York community,” Banks, 39, said in a conversation with THE CITY. “We knew it was just a matter of time that we would get the victory.”

While there are 417 outstanding absentee ballots yet to be counted, and 321 votes for a third candidate that could change the final tallies once ranked choice tabulations are performed, Barron conceded to his opponent Wednesday in an interview with the Daily News.

“They have won it,” he said. “I don’t think the ranked choice will change anything.”

Barron did not return a request from THE CITY for further comment.

The apparent loss was a stunning defeat for Barron, who’s represented East New York in some capacity almost uninterrupted since 2001, serving three fouryear terms in the Council, followed by four two-year terms in the state Assembly.

An ‘Elected Revolutionary’

Charles Barron started his political life as an activist in Harlem’s Black Panther Party in the late 1960s and was later taken under the wing of the Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, the founding chairman of the National Black United Front.

Barron served as chief of staff in the organization, a Black nationalist advocacy group that pushed for reparations for the descendants of enslaved people and prison reform, among other issues.

He made it into the Council on his second try, winning a primary in 2001 against Daniel Wooten, the son of City Councilmember Priscilla Wooten, who had been term-limited out.

Barron made waves right away, calling Thomas Jefferson a “pedophile” and demanding the removal of his bust at City Hall, seeking its replacement by a statue of Malcolm X.

The next year, at an August march on Washington calling for reparations for Black Americans, Barron ruffled establishment feathers again.

“I’m so mad. I just might walk up to the nearest white man and say, ‘You don’t understand. This is a Black thing,’ and

slap them just for my mental health.

“I am not a politician. I am an elected revolutionary,” he declared.

But over the years some residents of his district soured on his confrontational style, fearing it was a distraction from issues on the ground impacting his constituents.

“If he cared about reparations, he would make sure to take care of the people in his backyard,” said Pamela Lockley, the tenant association president of Linden Plaza, a towering 1,500-unit MitchellLama housing complex between Linden Boulevard and Sutter Avenue.

Lockley, a Banks supporter, said when the complex faced lengthy elevator outages or when a shooting happened on their doorstep, it was Banks — who served on the community board and the local precinct council — not Barron, who showed up.

“He’s been doing the job,” she said. “We’ve been ready for new leadership for a long time.”

Barron’s defenders see it otherwise. Brother Paul Muhammad, who sits on local Community Board 5, pointed to affordable housing complexes Barron pushed for like the Ebenezer Plaza Project and Livonia Commons; the new schools that have been built in the district; and early support for non-police alternatives to tamping down on gun violence like the group Man Up!, as evidence that Barron has delivered for East New York residents.

“I’m very sad. You don’t need a new voice. You need a renewed respect for militancy,” Muhammad said. “I want the man that has proven he could fight for my community.”

He sees Barron’s ousting as the triumph of Brooklyn’s political establishment, which has long viewed the pol as a thorn in their side.

“This is more of a well-funded antiBarron [campaign] more than it is pro somebody else,” he said.

Barron had certainly made political enemies over the years. Both Barrons have been willing to buck the Democratic Party line. In 2012 Charles ran against Democrat Hakeem Jeffries in the 8th Congressional District, which caused a frenzy among the political establishment when Barron seemed to gain traction in the race. (Jeffries has held that seat since then, presently serving as House Minority Leader.)

Beef between the two men has continued for years, with Jeffries’ senior advisor Andre Richardson calling Barron a “washed-up irrelevant hater,” and Barron returning the jab, calling Jeffries a “political animal opportunist.”

Jeffries has supported various challengers to Barron’s tenure, backing Banks in his various runs, as well as Nikki Lucas, who tried to wrest the Council seat from him in 2021.

Lucas won Inez Barron’s Assembly seat last year after she retired, beating a candidate the couple had picked to succeed her. It’s unclear if Charles Barron will seek to oust Lucas and attempt to reclaim his former Assembly seat when it’s up for election next year.

Banks said he got word in the final weeks of his campaign that Barron was making urgent appearances at local churches.

“His message was he was in a fight for his life and he needed their help,” Banks said.

Up until that point Barron had treated him with the same confident indifference he had on earlier occasions, sure he would cruise to victory again, Banks said.

“‘You’ve been rejected before, they’re gonna reject you again,’” Banks said Barron told him. “This time they rejected him.”l

This story was originally published on June 28, 2023 by THE CITY.

Fifth time’s the charm for Banks, who has been running against the political couple for a decade.

Charles Barron Editorial credit: a katz / Shutterstock.com

Inez Barron

Photo: NYC.gov

Chris Banks

Photo courtesy: Banks Campaign