#Expand investments in affordable housing through

[ivygorgon]

An open letter to the U.S. House of Representatives

Expand investments in affordable housing through FY24 Transportation-HUD bill

121 so far! Help us get to 250 signers!

Hello, I’m writing as a constituent because I’m concerned about the dramatic rise in homelessness affecting over half a million Americans, including families with children. I urge Congress to expand investments in affordable, accessible housing through the FY24 Transportation-HUD Appropriations Bill (H.R. 4820), and to oppose harmful amendments that would prevent those with the greatest need from accessing housing. As the House FY24 Transportation-Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill goes to the floor, I urge you to support increased funding for HUD programs that have been proven to reduce homelessness; and to vote against punitive policy amendments that would increase homelessness among vulnerable groups. This shouldn’t be about partisan politics. It should be about getting or keeping a roof over the heads of as many Americans as possible. Thanks.

▶ Created on November 3, 2023 by Jess Craven

📱 Text SIGN POLLRF to 50409

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[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #27

July 12-19 2024

President Biden announced the cancellation of $1.2 billion dollars worth of student loan debt. This will cancel the debt of 35,000 public service workers, such as teachers, nurses, and firefighters. This brings the total number of people who've had their student debt relived under the Biden Administration to 4.8 million or one out of every ten people with student loan debt, for a total of $168.5 billion in debt forgiven. This came after the Supreme Court threw out an earlier more wide ranging student debt relief plan forcing the administration to undertake a slower more piecemeal process for forgiving debt. President Biden announced a new plan in the spring that will hopefully be finalized by fall that will forgive an additional 30 million people's student loan debt.

President Biden announced actions to lower housing coasts, make more housing available and called on Congress to prevent rent hikes. President Biden's plan calls for landlords who raise the rent by more than 5% a year to face losing major important tax befits, the average rent has gone up by 21% since 2021. The President has also instructed the federal government, the largest land owner in the country, to examine how unused property can be used for housing. The Bureau of Land Management plans on building 15,000 affordable housing units on public land in southern Nevada, the USPS is examining 8,500 unused properties across America to be repurposed for housing, HHS is finalizing a new rule to make it easier to use federal property to house the homeless, and the Administration is calling on state, local, and tribal governments to use their own unused property for housing, which could create approximately 1.9 million units nationwide.

The Department of Transportation announced $5 billion to replace or restore major bridges across the country. The money will go to 13 significant bridges in 16 states. Some bridges are suffering from years of neglect others are nearly 100 years old and no longer fit for modern demands. Some of the projects include the I-5 bridge over the Columbia River which connects Portland Oregon to Vancouver Washington, replacing the Sagamore Bridge which connects Cape Cod to the mainland built in 1933, replacing the I- 83 South Bridge in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Cape Fear Memorial Bridge Replacement Project in Wilmington, North Carolina, among others.

President Biden signed an Executive Order aimed at boosting Latino college attendance. The order established the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) are defined as colleges with 25% or above Hispanic/Latino enrollment, currently 55% of Hispanic college students are enrolled in an HSI. The initiative seeks to stream line the relationship between the federal government and HSIs to allow them to more easily take advantage of federal programs and expand their reach to better serve students and boost Hispanic enrollment nationwide.

HUD announced $325 million in grants for housing and community development in 7 cities. the cities in Tennessee, Texas, Alabama, Florida, Nevada, New York and New Jersey, have collectively pledged to develop over 6,500 new mixed-income units, including the one-for-one replacement of 2,677 severely distressed public housing units. The 7 collectively will invest $2.65 billion in additional resources within the Choice Neighborhood area – so that every $1 in HUD funds will generate $8.65 in additional resources.

President Biden took extensive new actions on immigration. On June 18th The President announced a new policy that would allow the foreign born spouses and step children of American citizens who don't have legal status to apply for it without having to leave the country, this would effect about half a million spouses and 50,000 children. This week Biden announced that people can start applying on August 19, 2024. Also in June President Biden announced an easing of Visa rules that will allow Dreamers, Americans brought to the country as children without legal status, to finally get work visas to give them legal status and a path way to citizenship. This week the Biden Administration announced a new rule to expand the federal TRIO program to cover Dreamers. TRIO is a program that aims to support low income students and those who would be the first in their families to go to college transition from high school to college, the change would support 50,000 more students each year. The Administration also plans to double the number of free immigration lawyers available to those going through immigration court.

The EPA announced $160 million in grants to support Clean U.S. Manufacturing of Steel and Other Construction Materials. The EPA estimates that the manufacturing of construction materials, such as concrete, asphalt, steel, and glass, accounts for 15% of the  annual global greenhouse gas emissions. The EPA is supporting 38 projects aimed at measuring and combatting the environmental impact of construction materials.

The US announced $203 million in humanitarian assistance for the people of Sudan. Sudan's out of control civil war has caused the largest refugee crisis in the world with 11 million Sudanese having fled their homes in the face of violence. The war is also causing the gravest food crisis in the world, with a record setting 25 million people facing acute food insecurity, and fears that nearly a million will face famine in the next months. This aid brings the total aid the US has given Sudan since September 2023 to $1.6 billion, making America the single largest donor to Sudan.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau put forward a new rule that would better regulate popular paycheck advance products. 2/3rds of workers are payed every two weeks or once a month and since 2020 the number of short term loans that allow employees to receive their paycheck days before it’s scheduled to hit their account has grown by 90%. the CFPB says that many of these programs are decided with employers not employees and millions of Americans are paying fees they didn't know about before signing up. The new rule would require lenders to tell costumers up front about any and all fees and charges, as well as cracking down on deceptive "tipping" options.

[nientedal]

What progress at home has biden enacted? What policies of his show that he is making progress that prove he is actually different than trump?

I like to pretend I have faith in humanity, so I'll answer as if you're asking this in good faith.

Biden's DEA has lifted restrictions on telehealth prescriptions to make appointments and assistance more accessible.

He put a funding package into place to help unhoused people get access to mental and physical healthcare, as well as short-term and long-term housing.

He has attempted and is still attempting to get student debt relief through - this was blocked by Republican judges appointed by Trump, but he's still working on it.

Infrastructure repair - his administration has budgeted funds to actually fix some severely-damaged and frequently-traveled bridges.

Trying to expand access to healthcare to include undocumented immigrants who came to the USA as children (Dreamers) under the Affordable Care Act. Support for Navigator programs and outreach has also been increased.

He has vetoed Republican-led bills that were attempting to overturn environmental protections - one that would have forbidden investment fund managers to consider climate change in their portfolios (I have two degrees in accounting and this is actually huge), and another that would have overturned restrictions on agricultural runoff into our waterways.

He and his administration worked for ages to get rail workers paid sick days.

This is just some of what he's been doing. Meanwhile, Trump and other Republicans want to criminalize the lives of LGBT people like you and me. They want to eliminate no-fault divorce and force births that will kill parents or devastate them financially. They have stated flat out that they want to install a military dictatorship in the USA. They attempted to put that in motion on January 6th, 2021. They failed once. They will do better next time.

One party wants to house the homeless and expand social safety nets, while the other one wants to criminalize homelessness. One of them wants a future in which I might be able to vote to change how much of a war machine my country is, while the other one wants to eliminate my ability to vote entirely. Those are not the same. Those literally are opposites.

At the end of the day, all you and I can do is choose to do the least amount of harm possible. You and I cannot choose to do no harm. This is the USA, we sell war, you and I cannot choose to do no harm. I wish we could, my god do I wish we could, but that is not an option. So we grieve for the harm we couldn't eliminate and work to minimize the harm that is done. Despite all the crap they support, Democrats are the minimum amount of harm right now. Acting like they aren't is exactly what brought us to an election where our options are a future where we are either wading in blood or drowning in it.

Not voting for Biden will not help Palestine. Not voting for Biden will guarantee a Republican president who will make the situation in Palestine WORSE. AND it'll hurt a lot of other places as well, both at home and abroad, because Republicans are about business and the USA is in the business of war! And I would very much like that to change someday! I would very much like to someday be able to choose to do no harm! And I know what I have to do to try for that future, so what are YOU going to do? There is no standing off to the side in this. If you aren't helping pull, you're the dead weight we're pulling. Are you going to dig your feet into the mud and blood and drown us there? Or are you going to get the fuck off your ass, grit your teeth, and help us pull free?

[zvaigzdelasas]

China revealed this week it aims to spend more than a billion dollars to bolster manufacturing and domestic tech in a bid to remain globally competitive, while divulging little new support for the struggling real estate market.

Industrial support clearly ranked first on Beijing’s priority list for the year ahead, according to three major plans released this week as part of China’s annual parliamentary meetings.

One of those reports, from the Ministry of Finance, said the central government would allocate 10.4 billion yuan ($1.45 billion) “to rebuild industrial foundations and promote high-quality development of the manufacturing sector.”

While that’s down from the 13.3 billion yuan earmarked for the same category last year, the sector overall gained greater prominence. In 2023, plans to spend on industrial development came second to support for consumption.

“Unlike other economies that went through a wrenching adjustment in their housing market, China’s investment rate isn’t falling,” HSBC’s chief Asia economist Frederic Neumann and a team said in a report Friday. “Instead, [capital expenditure] is shifting towards infrastructure and, importantly, manufacturing.”[...]

Chinese authorities in 2020 intensified a crackdown on real estate developers’ high reliance on debt for growth. Property sales have since plunged while developers have run out of money to finish many projects, cutting into what was once about 25% of China’s GDP when including related sectors such as construction.[...]

Despite widespread attention on whether Beijing would bail out the property sector, real estate got no mention in the finance ministry’s spending plans, and limited attention in a ministry-level press conference about the economy during the parliamentary meetings. Instead, the housing minister was included in the lineup for a press conference about people’s livelihoods.

“Supporting the modernization of the industrial system” came first in the finance ministry’s report, followed by “supporting the implementation of the strategy of invigorating China through science and education.”

Within that second priority, the finance ministry said it would allocate 31.3 billion yuan for improving vocational education. Amid high youth unemployment, especially for university graduates, electric car company BYD and battery maker CATL are among those working with vocational schools to train staff for their expanding workforce.[...]

The report from the National Development and Reform Commission, the top economic planner, reiterated government plans to support some developers’ financing needs — under the eighth item on the priority list that called for preventing financial risks. The government work report presented by Premier Li Qiang gave real estate a similar level of prominence.

8 Mar 24

China will improve home sales in a "forceful" and "orderly" way, Minister of Housing and Urban-Rural Development Ni Hong said on Saturday (Mar 9), as weak demand in the country's beleaguered residential property market persists.[...]

Some developers should be allowed to go bankrupt or restructured according to legal and market-based rules, Ni said told a press conference on the sidelines of the annual meeting of parliament in Beijing.

Premier Li Qiang said this week that China will quicken the development of "a new model" for the troubled sector, focussing on building more affordable housing and meeting demand for homes.

But China will insist that "housing is for living in, not for speculation" when formulating a new development model for the sector, Ni said, reiterating an official line against property speculation.

9 Mar 24

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

August 6, 2024

Heather Cox Richardson

Aug 07, 2024

Today Vice President Kamala Harris named her choice for her vice presidential running mate: Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota. Walz grew up in rural Nebraska. He enlisted in the Army National Guard when he was 17 and served for 24 years, retiring in 2005 as a command sergeant major, making him the highest-ranking enlisted soldier ever to serve in Congress, according to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.  

He went to college with the educational benefits afforded him by the Army, and graduated from Chadron (Nebraska) State College. From 1989 to 1990, he taught at a high school in China, then became a social studies teacher in Alliance, Nebraska, where he met fellow teacher Gwen Whipple, who became his wife. They moved to Minnesota, where they both continued teaching and had two children, Hope and Gus, through IVF. 

Walz became the faculty advisor for the school’s gay-straight alliance organization at the same time that he coached the high-school football team from a 0–27 record to a state championship. The advisor “really needed to be the football coach, who was the soldier and was straight and was married," Walz said in 2018. 

Walz ran for Congress in 2005 after some of his students were asked to leave a rally for George W. Bush because one of them had a sticker for Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry. Walz won and served in Congress for twelve years, sitting on the House Agriculture Committee, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

Voters elected Walz to the Minnesota state house in 2018, and in his second term they gave him a slim majority in the state legislature. With that support, Walz signed into law protections for abortion rights, supported gender-affirming care, and legalized the recreational use of marijuana. He signed into law gun safety legislation and protections for voting rights, and pushed for action to combat climate change and to promote renewable energy. 

Strong tax revenues and spending cuts gave the state a $17.6 billion surplus, and the Democrats under Walz used the money not to cut taxes, as Republicans wanted, but to invest in education, fund free breakfast and lunch for schoolchildren, make tuition free at the state’s public colleges for students whose families earned less than $80,000 a year, and invest in paid family and medical leave and health insurance coverage regardless of immigration status. 

While MAGA Republicans are already trying to define Walz as “far left,” his votes in Congress put him pretty squarely in the middle.  His work with Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan to expand technology production and infrastructure funding in the state was rewarded in 2023, when Minnesota knocked Texas out of the top five states for business. The CNBC rating looked at 86 indicators in 10 categories, including the workforce, infrastructure, health, and business friendliness. 

Walz checks a number of boxes for the 2024 election, most notably that he hails from near the battleground states of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania and comes across as a normal, nice guy. He favors unions, workers’ rights, and a $15 minimum wage. He is also the person who coined the phrase that took away the dangerous overtones of today’s MAGA Republicans by dubbing them “weird.” As a student of his said: “In politics he’s good at calling out B.S. without getting nasty or too down in the dirt…. It’s the kind of common sense he showed as a coach: practical and kinda goofy.”

Walz is also a symbol of an important resetting of the Democratic Party. He has been unapologetic about his popular programs. On Sunday, July 28, when CNN’s Jake Tapper listed some of Walz’s policies and asked if they made Walz vulnerable to Trump calling him a “big government liberal.” Walz joked that he was, indeed, a “monster.” 

“Kids are eating and having full bellies so they can go learn, and women are making their own health care decisions, and we’re a top five business state, and we also rank in the top three of happiness…. The fact of the matter is,” where Democratic policies are implemented, “quality of life is higher, the economies are better…educational attainment is better. So yeah, my kids are going to eat here, and you’re going to have a chance to go to college, and you’re going to have an opportunity to live where we're working on reducing carbon emissions. Oh, and by the way, you’re going to have personal incomes that are higher, and you’re going to have health insurance. So if that’s where they want to label me, I’m more than happy to take the label.” 

Right-wing reactionary politicians have claimed to represent ordinary Americans since the time of the passage of the Voting Rights Act—on August 6, 1965, exactly 59 years ago today—by insisting that a government that works for communities is a “socialist” plan to elevate undeserving women and racial, ethnic, and gender minorities at the expense of hardworking white men. 

Historically, though, rural America has quite often been the heart of the country’s progressive politics, and the Midwest has had a central place in that progressivism. Walz reintegrates that history with today’s Democratic Party. 

That reintegration has left the Republicans flatfooted. Trump and J.D. Vance expected to continue their posturing as champions of the common man, but on that front the credentials of a New York real estate developer who inherited millions of dollars and of a Yale-educated venture capitalist pale next to a Nebraska-born schoolteacher. Bryan Metzger, politics reporter at Business Insider, pointed out that J.D. Vance tried to hit Walz as a “San Francisco-style liberal,” but while Vance lived in San Francisco as a venture capitalist between 2013 and 2017, Walz went to San Francisco for the first time just last month. 

Head writer and producer of A Closer Look at Late Night with Seth Meyers Sal Gentile summed up Walz’s progressive politics and community vibe when he wrote on social media: “Tim Walz will expand free school lunches, raise the minimum wage, make it easier to unionize, fix your [carburetor], replace the old wiring in your basement, spray that wasp’s nest under the deck, install a new spring for your garage door and put a new chain on your lawnmower.” 

Vice President Harris had a very deep bench from which to choose a running mate, but her choice of Walz seems to have been widely popular. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who are usually on opposite sides of the party, both praised the choice, prompting Ocasio-Cortez to post: “Dems in disconcerting levels of array.” 

Harris and Walz held their first rally together tonight in Philadelphia, where Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, who had been a top contender for the vice presidential slot, fired up the crowd. “Each of us has a responsibility to get off the sidelines, to get in the game, and to do our part,” he said. “Are you ready to do your part? Are you ready to form a more perfect union? Are you ready to build an America where no matter what you look like, where you come from, who you love, or who you pray to, that this will be a place for you? And are you ready to look the next president of the United States in the eye and say, ‘Hello, Madam President?’ I am too, so let’s get to work!”

Pennsylvania is a crucial state, and Shapiro issued a statement offering his “enthusiastic support” to the ticket. He pledged to work to unite Pennsylvanians behind my friends Kamala Harris and Tim Walz and defeat Donald Trump.”

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[dizzymoods]

Lots of VC questions recently. Someone emailed about what they should be engaging with to develop their artistic voice. Here's my answer:

In terms of guidance, Werner Herzog, who is admittedly a weirdo, said that the best thing a film student can do is go backpacking cross country, which I would never do. But the point he was ultimately making is that life experience is more important than anything a film school can teach you. Your artistic voice develops more sharply the more intune you are with the world; all the film stuff is superfluous really. So that would be my major advice. Live life! Be open to all sorts of experiences.

Outside of that I would say to read and watch anything and everything you can get your hands on. Especially stuff that has nothing to do with film. Be curious, which is to say non-judgemental. Sitting through stuff that you have no interest in or actively hate is good! It develops your taste in ways that seeking out only what you like can never do. It also expands your horizons and teaches you how much you actually don't know about anything. Keeps you humble. You'll be surprised 5 years on how something that you had no interest in is super relevant to what you're trying to do.

I'll drop some recommendations later but something you are going to run into is paywalls and exorbitant costs. Scihub, Libgen, and PaywallReader can be your friends in this regard. The more niche something is, the less mirrors there are. Investing in an internet audio/video ripper is essential. Rip often and indiscriminately. Nothing is safe unless you triplicate it. And if you can't afford hard drives, dummy alphabet accounts are the next best thing. Also, footnotes and reference lists are treasure troves of breadcrumbs.

The standard VC reading list includes: Reel to Real, The Devil Finds Work, Playing in the Dark, Young British & Black, Ways of Seeing (also a documentary), Orientalism, Film Manifestos and Global Cinema Culture, Questions of Third Cinema, Hollywood & Counter Cinema, Figures Traced in Light, Parallel Tracks, and Basho: The Complete Haiku

Hundreds of films can be found on Solidarity Cinema. Cinema of the World has a deep archive but you need to have space and a nitrofile account to download most films, but you can snipe a few films here and there (or look for them elsewhere). Rarefilmm updates semi-regularly and you can stream the films; they are now more active on twitter and are even taking requests. Some state-sponsored film industries have robust presences on youtube with english subs: Russia's Mosfilm/FUSE Mosfilm, Canada's NFB, the Korean Film Archive, Native People's Media. There's UbuWeb for all your avant-garde needs. There's FIlmmaker's Co-Op (pay-per-view), Paper Tiger Television, and Deep Dish Television for NYC indie stuff. AfroMarxist has a fair amount of political documentaries. NMAHC has an archive that houses the work of Chamba Productions and some of Pearl Bowser's stuff. And of course there's the legendary MikeD of ReelBlack. It's a crap shoot but some filmmakers and/or their estates make work available free online (Leo Hurwitz and Julie Dash come to mind). I'd recommend a Kweli TV subscription for black film, and never be surprised by what you can find on youtube or tubi!

This is probably super overwhelming but the joy of being an autodidact is the thrill of discovery so peruse at your leisurely interest. The internet is your oyster if you know how to use it! Back in my day hardly any of these sites existed and the ones that did weren't as robust as they are now. I've had to frankenstein whole movies from various clips posted in 144p on youtube 😩

I used to do a couple of themed months a year where I'd read and watch as much as possible about a filmmaker, genre, or movement that interested me. I'd spin a globe to learn a little about a random country's cinema. Best of lists/canons don't really mean much but they are good sources of stuff to at least be aware of.

[saddiedotdk]

Kamala Harris accomplishments as VP:

Cast tie-breaking vote for the American Rescue Plan of 2021.

Passed the American Rescue Plan, resulting in $1.9 trillion in economic stimulus.

Extended the Child Tax Credit through the American Rescue Plan.

Extended unemployment benefits through the American Rescue Plan.

Passed the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill.

Secured funding for electric school buses in the infrastructure bill.

Secured funding to combat wildfires and droughts in the infrastructure bill.

Secured funding for replacing lead water service lines.

Engaged with lawmakers at least 150 times for infrastructure investment.

Led diplomatic mission to Guatemala and Mexico to address migration issues.

Launched the "Central America Forward" initiative.

Secured $4.2 billion in private sector commitments for Central America.

Visited Paris to strengthen US-France relations.

Visited Singapore and Vietnam to bolster economic and strategic ties.

Visited Poland to support NATO allies during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Visited Romania to support NATO allies during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Launched the "Fight for Reproductive Freedoms" tour.

Visited a Planned Parenthood clinic in Minnesota.

Passed the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act.

Promoted racial equity in pandemic response through specific initiatives.

Chaired the National Space Council.

Visited NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center to promote space policies.

Passed the Freedom to Vote Act in the House.

Passed the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act in the House.

Built coalitions for voting rights protections.

Supported the Affordable Care Act through specific policy measures.

Expanded healthcare coverage through policy initiatives.

Passed initiatives for debt-free college education.

Hosted a STEM event for women and girls at the White House.

Championed criminal justice reform through specific legislation.

Secured passage of the bipartisan assault weapons ban.

Expanded background checks for gun purchases through legislation.

Increased the minimum wage through specific policy actions.

Implemented economic justice policies.

Expanded healthcare coverage through policy initiatives.

Secured funding for affordable housing.

Secured funding for affordable education initiatives.

Launched the "Justice is Coming Home" campaign for veterans' mental health.

Proposed legislation for easier legal actions against financial institutions.

Strengthened the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Secured investment in early childhood education.

Launched maternal health initiatives.

Launched the "Call to Action to Reduce Maternal Mortality and Morbidity".

Made Black maternal health a national priority through policy actions.

Increased diversity in government appointments.

Passed legislation for renewable energy production.

Secured funding for combating climate change.

Passed infrastructure development initiatives.

Secured transportation funding through the infrastructure bill.

Developed a plan to combat climate change.

Reduced illegal immigration through policy actions.

Equitable vaccine distribution through specific policy measures.

Supported small businesses through pandemic recovery funds.

Secured educational resources during the pandemic.

Promoted international cooperation on climate initiatives.

Secured international agreements on climate change.

Passed economic policies benefiting the middle class.

Criticized policies benefiting the wealthy at the expense of the working class.

Promoted racial equity in healthcare through specific actions.

Promoted racial equity in economic policies.

Reduced racial disparities in education through specific initiatives.

Increased mental health resources for underserved communities.

Secured funding for affordable childcare.

Secured federal funding for community colleges.

Increased funding for HBCUs.

Increased vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Secured policies for pandemic preparedness.

Ensured equitable vaccine distribution through policy actions.

Secured international cooperation for COVID-19 responses.

Reduced economic disparities exacerbated by the pandemic.

Passed digital equity initiatives for broadband access.

Expanded rural broadband through specific policies.

Secured cybersecurity policies through legislation.

Protected election integrity through specific actions.

Secured fair and secure elections through policy measures.

Strengthened international alliances through diplomacy.

Supported the Paris Climate Agreement through policy actions.

Led U.S. climate negotiations through international initiatives.

Passed initiatives for clean energy jobs.

Secured policies for energy efficiency.

Reduced carbon emissions through specific legislation.

Secured international climate finance.

Promoted public health policies through specific initiatives.

Passed reproductive health services policies.

Supported LGBTQ+ rights through specific actions.

Secured initiatives to reduce homelessness.

Increased veterans' benefits through legislation.

Secured affordable healthcare for veterans.

Passed policies to support military families.

Secured initiatives for veteran employment.

Increased mental health resources for veterans.

Passed disability rights legislation.

Secured policies for accessible infrastructure.

Increased funding for workforce development.

Implemented economic mobility policies.

Secured consumer protection policies through legislation.

Engaged in community outreach through public events.

Organized public engagement efforts.

Participated in over 720 official events, averaging three per day since taking office.

Supported efforts to modernize public health data systems.

[gatheringbones]

[“Our institutions have socialized us to scarcity, creating artificial resource shortages and then normalizing them. For example, because the residents of affluent neighborhoods have been so successful at blocking the construction of new housing in their communities, developers have turned their sights on down-market neighborhoods, where they also meet resistance, often from struggling renters fretting about gentrification.

As this dynamic has repeated itself in cities across America, the debate about addressing the affordable housing crisis and fostering inclusive communities has turned into a debate about gentrification, one pitting low-income families who have stable housing against low-income families who need it. But notice how contrived and weird this is, how our full range of action has been limited by rich homeowners essentially redlining their blocks. Or consider how a scarcity mindset frames so much of our politics, crippling our imaginations and stunting our moral ambitions. How many times have we all heard legislators and academics and pundits begin their remarks with the phrase “In a world of scarce resources…,” as if that state of affairs were self-evident, obvious, as unassailable as natural law, instead of something we’ve fashioned?

The United States lags far behind other advanced countries when it comes to funding public services. In 2019, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, and several other Western democracies each raised tax revenues equal to at least 38 percent of their GDPs, while the United States’ total revenues languished at 25 percent. Instead of catching up to our peer nations, we have lavished government benefits on affluent families and refused to prosecute tax dodgers. And then we cry poor when someone proposes a way to spur economic mobility or end hunger? Significantly expanding our collective investment in fighting poverty will cost something. How much it will cost is not a trivial affair. But I would have more patience for concerns about the cost of ending family homelessness if we weren’t spending billions of dollars each year on homeowner tax subsidies, just as I could better stomach concerns over the purported financial burden of establishing a living wage if our largest corporations weren’t pocketing billions each year through tax avoidance. The scarcity mindset shrinks and contorts poverty abolitionism, forcing it to operate within fictitious fiscal constraints. It also pits economic justice against climate justice. When lawmakers have tried to curb pollution and traffic gridlock through congestion pricing, for instance, charging vehicles a fee if they enter busy urban neighborhoods during peak hours, critics have shot down the proposal by claiming it would hit low-income workers in transit deserts the hardest. In many cases, this is true. But it doesn’t have to be. We allow millions to live paycheck to paycheck, then leverage their predicament to justify inaction on other social and environmental issues. Politicians and pundits inform us, using their grown-up voice, that unfortunately we can’t tax gas-guzzling vehicles or transition to green energy or increase the cost of beef because it would harm poor and working-class families. My point isn’t that these tradeoffs aren’t pertinent but that they aren’t inescapable. They are by-products of fabricated scarcity.”]

matthew desmond, from poverty: by america, 2023

[insert-witty-user-name-here]

50+ Good Things from the Biden Administration

Just a list of 50+ good things the Biden Administration has done in the last 4 years because I’ve been hearing too much rhetoric that it doesn’t matter who you vote for. It does make a difference. 

Increased access to healthcare and specifically codified protections for LGBTQ+ patients against discrimination. (x) 

Strengthened women's reproductive rights by increasing access to reproductive health care, improving confidentiality to protect against criminalization for patients receiving reproductive care, and revoked Medicaid waivers from states that would exclude providers like Planned Parenthood, and more. (x)

Expanded healthcare and benefits for veterans through the PACT Act (x)

Cemented protections for pregnant and postpartum workers through the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act. 

Improved access to nursing homes for those who receive Medicaid services and established, for the first time, a national minimum staffing requirement for nursing homes to ensure those in their care receive sufficient support.  (x) 

Lowered healthcare costs for those with Medicare which capped insulin for seniors at $35 a month, made vaccines free, and capped seniors’ out of pocket expenses at the pharmacy through the Inflation Reduction Act. 

Fully vaccinated 79% of American adults against COVID-19 (I know this is old news now this is a big deal) 

Banned unfair practices that hide housing fees from renters and homebuyers when moving into a new home (x) 

Reduced the mortgage insurance premium for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgages and clarified that inflated rents caused by algorithmic use of sensitive nonpublic pricing and supply information violate antitrust laws. (x) 

Increased protections for those saving for retirement from predatory practices. (x)

Helped millions of households gain access to the internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program. (x) 

Restored net neutrality (net neutrality is a standard which ensures broadband internet service is essential and prohibits interna providers from blocking, engaging in paid prioritization, and more.) (x)

Increased protections for loan holders as well as increased access to loans (x)

Cut fees that banks charge consumers for overdrawing on their accounts. (x)

Reaffirmed HUD’s commitment to remedy housing discrimination under the Fair Housing Act (which was– surprise, surprise– halted under the Trump administration). (x)

Rejoined the Paris Climate Accords.  

Listed more than 24 million acres of public lands across the country as environmentally protected and has channeled more than $18 billion dollars toward conservation projects. (And revoked the permit for the Keystone XL pipeline amongst others). 

Invested $369 billion to reduce greenhouse emissions and promote clean energy technologies through the Inflation Reduction Act. Through the tax incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, renewable energy (such as wind, solar, and hydropower) has surpassed coal-fired generation in the electric power sector for the first time, making it the second-biggest source of energy behind natural gas. (x)

Strengthened protections against workplace assault through the Speak Out Act. (x) 

Increased protections for workers during the union bargaining process (x)

Is making it easier for passengers to obtain refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change their flights, significantly delay their bags, or fail to provide extra services when purchased. (x)  

Invested $1.2 trillion into roads, waterlines, broadband networks, airports and more allowing for more bridges, railroads, tunnels, roads, and more through the Inflation Reduction Act (which also added 670,000 jobs). (idk about you but I like driving on well maintained roads and having more rail options).  

Strengthened overtime protections for federal employees (x)

Raised the minimum wage for federal workers and contractors to $15. (x)

Strengthened protections for farmworkers by expanding the activities protected from retaliation by the National Labor Relations Act and more. (Previously anti-retaliation provisions under the National Labor Relations Act applies mostly to only U.S. citizens) (x)

Invested $80 billion for the Internal Revenue Service to hire new agents, audit the wealth, modernize its technology, and more. Additionally, created $300 billion in new revenue through corporate tax increases. (x) 

Lowered the unemployment rate to 3.5% — the lowest in 50 years. 

Canceled over $140B of student debt for nearly 40 million borrowers. (x)

Strengthened protections for sexual assault survivors, pregnant and parenting students, and LGBTQ+ students in schools through an updated Title IX rule. This updated rule strengthens sexual assault survivors rights to investigation– something that had been gutted under the Trump administration, strengthens requirements that schools provide modifications for students based on pregnancy, prohibits harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and more. (x)

Revoked an order that limited diversity and inclusion training. (x)

Cracked down on for profit colleges. (x)

Reaffirmed students’ federal civil rights protections for non-discrimination based on race, national origin, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender in schools. Specifically, the Department of Education made clear students with disabilities’ right to school, limiting the use of out of school suspensions and expulsions against them. (x) (x) 

Enhanced the Civil Rights Data Collection, a national survey that captures data on students’ equal access to educational opportunities. These changes will improve the tracking of civil rights violations for students, critical for advocates to respond to instances of discrimination. 

Provided guidance on how colleges and universities can still uphold racial diversity in higher education following the Supreme Court decision overturning affirmative action. (x) 

Issued a federal pardon to all prior Federal offenses of simple possession of marijuana. Additionally, the DEA is taking steps to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III substance instead of a Schedule I, limiting punishment for possession in the future. (x) 

Changed drug charges related to crack offenses, now charging crack offenses as powder cocaine offenses. This is a big step towards ending the racial disparity that punishes crack offenses with greater severity than offenses involving the same amount of powder cocaine. (x) 

Lowered the cost of local calls for incarcerated people through the Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable Communications Act as well as increased access for video calls (especially impactful for incarcerated people with disabilities). (x) 

Enacted policing reforms that banned chokeholds, restricted no-knock entries, and restricted the transfer of military equipment to local police departments. (x)

Established the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD) which will better track police officer misconduct. This database will vet federal law enforcement candidates who have a history of misconduct from being rehired and will make it easier and faster to charge police officers under the Death in Custody Reporting Act. (x) 

Added disability as a protected characteristic alongside race, gender, religion, and sexual orientation. Under the law, police officers are prohibited from profiling people based on these characteristics. …It sadly happens anyway but now there’s an added legal protection which means a mechanism to convict police officers should they break the law. (x) 

Required federal prisons to place incarcerated individuals consistent with their chosen pronouns and gender identity. (x) 

Expanded gun background checks by narrowing the “boyfriend” loophole to keep guns out of the hands of convicted dating partners, strengthening requirements for registering as a licensed gun dealer (closing the “gun show loophole”), and more through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.  (x) 

Increased mental health programs within police departments to support officers experiencing substance use disorders, mental health issues, or trauma from their duties. (x)

Lifted Trump era restrictions on the use of consent decrees. The Justice Department uses consent decrees to force local government agencies (like police departments) to eliminate bad practices (such as widespread abuse and misconduct) that infringe on peoples’ civil rights. (x) 

Improved reporting of hate crimes through the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act (x) 

Nominated the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court 

Confirmed 200 lifetime judges to federal courts, confirming historic numbers of women, people of color, and other judges who have long been excluded from our federal court system. (64% are women, 63% are people of color) 

Designated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) status for immigrants from Cameroon, Haiti, ​​El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, Sudan, and more. (x) 

Ended the discriminatory Muslim and African bans (x). 

Provided a pathway to citizenship for spouses of U.S. citizens that have been living in the country without documentation. (x) 

Expanded healthcare to DACA recipients (x) 

This one is… barely a win but not by fault of the Biden Administration. The Department of Homeland Security as of Feb 2023 has reunited nearly 700 immigrant children that were separated from their families under Trump’s Zero Tolerance Policy. From 2017-2021, 3,881 children were separated from their families. About 74% of those have been reunited with their families: 2,176 before the task force was created and 689 afterward. But that still leaves nearly 1,000 children who remain tragically separated from their families from under the Trump Administration. (x)

(okay this one is maybe only exciting for me who’s a census nerd) Revised federal standards for the collection of race and ethnicity data, allowing for federal data that better reflect the country’s diversity. Now, government forms will include a Middle Eastern/ North African category (when previously those individuals would check “white”). Additionally, forms will now have combined the race & ethnicity question allowing for individuals to check “Latino/a” as their race (previously Latine individuals would be encouraged to check “Latino” for ethnicity and “white” for race… which doesn’t really resonate with many folks). (x) (I know this sounds boring but let me tell you this is BIG when it comes to better data collection– and better advocacy!).

Rescinded a Trump order that would have excluded undocumented immigrants from the 2020 Census which would have taken away critical funds from those communities. 

Required the U.S. federal government and all U.S. states and territories to recognize the validity of same-sex and interracial civil marriages by passing the Respect for Marriage Act, repealing the Defense of Marriage Act.

Reversed Trump’stransgender military ban. 

Proposed investments in a lot of programs including universal pre-k, green energy, mental health programs across all sectors, a national medical leave program for all workers and more. (x) 

Last… let’s also not forget all the truly terrible things Trump did when he was in office. If you need a reminder, scroll this list, this one mostly for giggles + horror, for actual horror about what a Trump presidency has in store, learn about ‘Project 2025’ from the Heritage Foundation. I know this post is about reasons to vote FOR Biden but let’s not forget the many, many reasons to vote for him over Trump. 

So, there it is, 50+ reasons to vote for Biden in the 2024 Election. 

Check your voter registration here, make a plan to vote, and encourage your friends to vote as well. 

All in all, yeah… there’s a lot of shitty things still happening. There’s always going to be shit but things aren’t going to change on their own. And that change starts (it certainly doesn’t end) with voting. 

Go vote in November. 

[mariacallous]

President Yoon Suk Yeol’s conservative People Power Party (PPP) suffered a major setback in South Korea’s parliamentary election held on April 10, 2024. Of the 300 seats in the National Assembly, the PPP secured only 108 seats through direct and proportional elections. Meanwhile, the major progressive opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and its satellite parties expanded its majority to 175 seats, hampering Yoon’s ability to govern for his remaining three years in office. Although the Yoon government’s domestic agenda may become further imperiled, his active foreign policy agenda will largely stay intact, including his staunch support for the U.S.-South Korea alliance and promotion of South Korea as a global pivotal state.

A referendum on President Yoon

South Korea’s midterm election was largely seen as a referendum on Yoon. Since coming to office in May 2022, Yoon’s domestic approval ratings have remained low, rarely breaking past 40 percent. Although support for the DPK and its party leader, Lee Jae-myung, has tracked equally as low, South Koreans were more likely to associate their country’s current economic woes, including inflation and high prices, with the ruling government.

A series of small, but unfortunate events and gaffes by Yoon during the election campaign may have also helped tip the scales in favor of opposition candidates in contested districts. In the months leading up to South Korea’s election, minor scandals surrounding the president’s wife and his former defense minister, an ongoing strike by the country’s medical doctors, and the president’s seemingly trivial comment about the price of green onions made him look out of touch.

Moreover, the rapid growth in support for a new progressive party founded by former Minister of Justice Cho Kuk just a month before the election attests to Yoon’s domestic unpopularity. Cho established the Rebuilding Korea Party (RKP) explicitly to challenge the Yoon administration, which he described as “dictatorial” and “anti-democratic.”  Despite the former justice minister’s own corruption scandals and indictment, the RKP performed better than any other third party, winning 12 seats in the party-list proportional voting system.

Domestic political challenges

A divided government and ongoing political polarization will make it especially difficult for government and opposition leaders to make compromises and find bold solutions to pressing social and economic problems, such as high inflation, falling birth rates, and the lack of affordable housing.

Yoon will continue to face challenges in implementing his domestic priorities. During recent town hall meetings, the president unveiled several policy initiatives in hopes of attracting voters, including plans for new housing through urban redevelopment and new infrastructure projects. Just prior to the election, Yoon promised major investment in a new industrial complex for the development of semiconductors and artificial intelligence and pledged to relocate the National Assembly out of Seoul to the administrative city of Sejong in the middle of the country. However, his government will face obstacles in the National Assembly in financing such projects with progressives holding a commanding majority.

Greater continuity in foreign policy

The basic contours of Yoon’s foreign and national security policy, including support for the U.S.-South Korean alliance, deterring North Korea, and the U.S.-Japan-Korea trilateral, will persist. Relations with the United States will also remain positive given wide public support, even among progressives, for the U.S.-South Korea alliance.

Likewise, the South Korean public’s unfavorable views of China and broad recognition of Chinese coercive actions in the region have muted major criticism that Yoon has antagonized China. Despite the Yoon government’s close alignment with Washington, Seoul has also maintained space to engage Beijing diplomatically. Last week, the Yoon government announced Seoul would host a China-Japan-South Korea trilateral summit in late May.

Nevertheless, the DPK’s electoral gains will take some of the wind out of Yoon’s foreign policy sails. The DPK may complicate further South Korean rapprochement with Japan and demand that Yoon seek greater concessions from Tokyo to address historical grievances. This in turn may slow the pace of U.S.-Japan-Korea trilateral cooperation and the implementation of the deliverables announced during the Camp David trilateral summit in 2023, particularly those that call for greater military cooperation with Japan.

Opposition party members may also feel more emboldened to speak out against Yoon’s hostile approach to North Korea in contrast to the DPK’s desire for greater inter-Korea engagement. Yoon’s revised unification plan for the two Koreas, which incorporates principles of freedom and democracy, will likely be criticized by DPK members.

A lame duck?

The term “lame duck” has been repeatedly used to describe Yoon’s remaining time in office. However, Yoon’s predicament may not significantly diverge from his first two years in office since the DPK did not win a supermajority—over 200 seats—needed to overcome filibusters and override presidential vetoes. The election results are also unlikely to change the overall tenor of South Korea’s polarized politics, as the ruling and opposition parties continue to highlight scandals and pursue corruption charges against their political opponents. Although political momentum may shift to the DPK, the PPP will likely regroup in preparation for the next presidential election in 2027 as it did following even greater losses by the conservative party in the 2020 parliamentary elections.

For South Korea’s allies and partners, some concern may emerge regarding whether the Yoon government can sustain its activist foreign policy agenda, including support for Ukraine or increased attention to Taiwan and cross-Strait relations. Yoon, however, is unlikely to backtrack on the idea of South Korea becoming a global pivotal state, as foreign policy and national security issues are typically the prerogatives of the president in South Korean politics, and Yoon remains at the helm of Korea’s strong executive branch.

Seoul recently hosted the third Summit for Democracy in March, and in May will co-host the AI Safety Summit and the China-Japan-Korea trilateral summit. NATO is looking toward South Korea and other Asian countries for greater support on Ukraine. Although unlikely, a more inward-looking South Korea resulting from the president’s so-called “lame-duck” status would be a loss for the international community.

Beyond partisan politics, the DPK too has a stake in elevating South Korea’s global role. Although North Korea and Japan issues elicit starkly different responses from South Korean progressives and conservatives, in recent years, attitudes towards the U.S.-South Korea alliance and China have somewhat converged. The United States and its allies should therefore continue to work with Seoul, irrespective of the party in power, to promote regional security and global order.

[chauhandipesh]

Discover Affordable Luxury at Advitya Heights, Faridabad

Nestled in the heart of Faridabad, along the bustling Main Mathura Road in Sector 143, Advitya Heights emerges as a beacon of Affordable luxury in the city’s real estate landscape. Offering a diverse selection of meticulously crafted 1 BHK, 2 BHK, and 3 BHK apartments, Advitya Heights caters to the discerning needs of modern families and investors alike.

Prime Location, Unmatched Convenience

Advitya Heights boasts a strategic location that ensures unparalleled connectivity. Situated in Sector 143, residents enjoy seamless access to major highways, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and recreational hubs. This prime positioning not only enhances daily convenience but also promises a lifestyle enriched with urban amenities.

Modern Amenities for Every Lifestyle

Step into Advitya Heights, and you'll find yourself immersed in a world of modern comforts and conveniences. Whether you seek an active lifestyle or tranquility, the project offers something for everyone. Residents can indulge in state-of-the-art amenities such as a well-equipped gymnasium, rejuvenating jogging track, expansive multipurpose lawn, vibrant shopping mall, safe children’s play area, and thoughtful 24-hour surveillance for peace of mind.

Quality Construction and Design Excellence

Built with a commitment to quality and attention to detail, each apartment at Advitya Heights exemplifies superior craftsmanship. From robust structural integrity to elegant interior finishes, every aspect is meticulously designed to elevate your living experience. The use of premium materials ensures durability, safety, and sustainability, reflecting our dedication to delivering homes that stand the test of time.

Affordable Luxury, Unbeatable Value

Advitya Heights redefines affordability without compromising on luxury. The project offers competitive pricing across its range of apartments, making it accessible to a wide spectrum of homebuyers and investors. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to expand your real estate portfolio, Advitya Heights presents an exceptional opportunity to own a piece of Faridabad’s thriving real estate market.

Customer Satisfaction, Testimonials that Speak

Don’t just take our word for it—hear from our satisfied residents. Rahul Sharma praises Advitya Heights for its spacious layouts and top-notch amenities, while Priya Singh recommends it for its excellent value proposition in Faridabad’s competitive real estate scene. Their testimonials underscore our commitment to exceeding expectations and creating homes where families thrive.

Experience Advitya Heights Today

Curious to explore what Advitya Heights has to offer? Schedule a visit to our office located on Main Mathura Road, Sector 143, Faridabad, Sikri. Our friendly team is ready to guide you through the project, answer your queries, and help you find the perfect home tailored to your lifestyle and budget.

For more information or to book your visit, contact us at 999-278-9260 or connect with us via WhatsApp. Stay updated on the latest news, offers, and insights by following Advitya Heights on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

Conclusion

Advitya Heights isn’t just a housing project; it’s a gateway to affordable luxury in Faridabad. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant community to raise your family or a promising investment opportunity, Advitya Heights promises a lifestyle enriched with convenience, comfort, and modernity. Discover your new home at Advitya Heights and embark on a journey where every day feels like a celebration of life’s finest pleasures.

[nordholm]

Discover Ultimate Destination for Premier Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Dubai

Welcome to Nordholm, the pinnacle provider of Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Dubai, proudly under the esteemed umbrella of Nordholm Investments—an innovative Swiss entity dedicated to guiding investors in expanding their businesses across global landscapes, notably in the thriving business hub of Dubai, UAE. Being the top choice among businesses, our holistic range of services goes beyond mere assistance; we excel in refining the entire gamut of business establishment. From facilitating effortless Company Formations and streamlined Visa Procedures to orchestrating smooth Bank Account setups, our expertise extends seamlessly. Moreover, we masterfully navigate HR management, payroll systems, VAT intricacies, and the nuanced landscape of accounting.

Why choose us as the leading provider for your accounting necessities within the realm of Bookkeeping Services in Dubai?

Swift and High-Quality Service: As the top-tier provider of Accounting and Bookkeeping firm in Dubai, our primary focus is delivering exceptional services promptly, ensuring uncompromising quality.

Solidity and Confidentiality: Choosing us guarantees stability and top-tier security for your sensitive data, surpassing the protections offered by part-time accountants.

Affordability and Efficiency: Small and Medium-sized enterprises can significantly benefit from our services, eliminating the need for in-house accountants and reducing overheads like labour cards, health insurance, visa expenses, and more.

We Specialize in Discreetly Providing unparalleled Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in UAE, allowing you to concentrate on core business operations. Our dedication revolves around propelling businesses forward by harmonizing sustainability with security, fostering resilience, and ensuring continuous growth.

Being recognized as the Leading Provider of Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Dubai, we empower businesses to seize opportunities and make informed decisions through punctual and high-caliber services operating seamlessly in the background.

Solidifying the foundation of a thriving business hinges on robust accounting and bookkeeping practices. Entrusting your Financial Backbone to our Professional Expertise in Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Dubai ensures not just operational smoothness but also precise reporting, fortifying your organization's overall efficiency.

At Nordholm, we transcend the conventional role of service providers. As the leading authority in Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Dubai, we offer more than just solutions; we become your guiding compass in navigating business ventures across diverse countries, especially within the dynamic UAE landscape. Our comprehensive array of services, from initial setup to ongoing management, is tailored meticulously to meet the varied needs of our investors. With us, you embark on a seamless and stress-free journey towards your business aspirations.

[digital-crusader]

Ageing India: Unveiling the Social Challenges Faced by Elderly Citizens

Introduction: India, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a rapidly growing population, is currently witnessing a significant demographic shift. The ageing population in India is increasing at an unprecedented rate, bringing forth numerous social challenges for retired individuals and elderly parents. It is imperative to shed light on these issues to create awareness and work towards finding sustainable solutions that ensure the well-being and dignity of our senior citizens.

Financial Insecurity: One of the most pressing concerns faced by the elderly in India is financial insecurity. Many retired individuals lack sufficient savings or pension plans to meet their daily needs, let alone cover medical expenses or unexpected emergencies. This vulnerability highlights the need for comprehensive social security systems and pension reforms that can provide a safety net for our ageing population.

Healthcare Concerns: Access to quality healthcare is another significant challenge faced by older individuals, particularly in rural areas where medical facilities are limited. As health issues become more prevalent with age, the lack of affordable and accessible healthcare services poses a grave risk to the well-being of the elderly. There is a critical need to prioritize geriatric healthcare and establish robust healthcare infrastructure to cater to the specific needs of older citizens.

Loneliness and Isolation: In a rapidly changing society, traditional family structures are evolving, leading to increasing instances of elderly parents living alone or being geographically separated from their adult children. This isolation and loneliness can have severe repercussions on their mental health and overall quality of life. We must focus on building support systems that foster intergenerational connectivity and address the emotional well-being of our elderly citizens.

Elder Abuse Awareness: A distressing reality faced by some elderly individuals in India is the occurrence of elder abuse. Physical, emotional, and financial mistreatment leaves the elderly feeling vulnerable and victimized. It is crucial to create awareness about this issue and establish legal frameworks that protect the rights and dignity of our senior citizens. Additionally, community engagement and education can help prevent elder abuse and encourage a culture of respect and care for the elderly.

Strengthening Social Support: To address the social challenges faced by elderly citizens, we need to strengthen and expand social support systems. Community-based programs, volunteer initiatives, and support groups can provide a sense of belonging and assistance to older individuals. Collaboration between the government, NGOs, and local communities is crucial in ensuring that the elderly have access to support networks that address their unique needs.

Enhancing Retirement Infrastructure: India’s retirement infrastructure is currently inadequate to cater to the needs of the growing elderly population. There is a need for comprehensive retirement planning mechanisms, including affordable housing, assisted living facilities, and geriatric care centers. By investing in infrastructure that promotes ageing with dignity, we can create an environment where older citizens can lead fulfilling lives and receive the care and support they deserve.

Ageism and Age Discrimination: Ageism and age discrimination are pervasive issues faced by older individuals in various aspects of life, including employment, social interactions, and healthcare. Changing societal attitudes and promoting intergenerational understanding can help combat these biases and create an inclusive society that values the contributions of the elderly.

Promoting Active Ageing: Active ageing is a concept that encourages older individuals to lead healthy, engaged, and productive lives. Through physical exercise, lifelong learning, and participation in social activities, older citizens can maintain their physical and mental well-being. It is essential to promote active ageing by creating opportunities for seniors to engage in meaningful activities and have access to lifelong learning programs.

Conclusion: Aumorto offers NRIs a powerful solution to the challenges they face in ensuring the well-being of their aging parents residing in Kolkata. By providing a nurturing environment, trustworthy care, cultural integration, comprehensive medical support and a serene retirement living experience, Aumorto empowers NRIs to offer their parents longer, healthier and more meaningful life. With Aumoto, NRIs can find solace, knowing that their parents are in the hands of a dedicated and compassionate society.

[rashigr]

Best Property in Joka Kolkata: Unleashing Potential

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a city steeped in history, art, and a vibrant spirit. As the city continues to grow and expand, new areas are emerging as promising hubs for real estate investments. Among these, Joka in Kolkata has captured the attention of property in Joka Kolkata enthusiasts and investors, offering a multitude of opportunities and untapped potential. Located in the southwestern part of the city, Joka stands at the threshold of transformation, poised to become a thriving real estate destination.

With its strategic location, excellent connectivity, and ongoing infrastructure development, Joka has all the ingredients necessary for a flourishing market of property in Joka Kolkata. The area enjoys proximity to key neighborhoods like Behala, Alipore, and New Alipore, making it well-connected to the rest of Kolkata through major roads and upcoming metro lines. This accessibility not only ensures convenience in daily commuting but also provides easy access to essential amenities, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and entertainment zones.

One of the standout features of Joka is its status as an educational hub, boasting prestigious institutions, and esteemed engineering and management colleges. This concentration of educational institutions not only attracts students but also creates a demand for rental properties, making Joka an excellent investment opportunity.

Moreover, Joka offers a range of affordable housing options, making it an attractive destination for first-time homebuyers and investors alike. With a mix of apartments, villas, and plots, the area caters to diverse budget ranges and preferences, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

Some Interesting features of the best property in Joka Kolkata

1. Strategic Location: Situated in the southwestern part of Kolkata, Joka enjoys proximity to key areas such as Behala, Alipore, and New Alipore. It is well-connected to the rest of the city through major roads, including the Diamond Harbour Road and the upcoming Joka-BBD Bagh flat near joka metro line. The area's accessibility makes it convenient for daily commuting and provides easy access to essential amenities, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and entertainment zones.

2. Educational Hub: Joka is renowned for being an educational hub, housing prestigious institutions, and several renowned engineering and management colleges. The presence of these esteemed institutions not only attracts students but also creates a demand for rental flats in Joka, making it an excellent investment opportunity.

3. Affordable Housing Options: Compared to other prime locations in Kolkata, Joka offers relatively affordable housing options. The area features a mix of apartments, villas, and plots, catering to various budget ranges. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an investor looking for long-term capital appreciation, Joka provides a range of options that suit diverse requirements.

4. Future Growth Potential: Joka's real estate market is poised for significant growth in the coming years. The area's proximity to the upcoming Joka-Airport Metro line proposed IT hubs and commercial developments indicates a promising future. As more infrastructure projects materialize and economic activities flourish, property in Joka Kolkata prices are likely to appreciate, ensuring attractive returns on investments.

5. Green Spaces and Serene Environment: Joka offers a peaceful and green environment, away from the bustling cityscape. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, with parks and open spaces providing a refreshing escape from the urban chaos. The presence of serene surroundings adds value to residential properties in Kolkata, providing a serene and healthy lifestyle for residents.

6. Upcoming Commercial and Retail Developments: Joka is witnessing the emergence of commercial and retail developments, making it an ideal location for businesses and entrepreneurs. The growing presence of shopping complexes, office spaces, and commercial hubs creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to establish their ventures and cater to the needs of the expanding residential population.

7. Cultural and Artistic Significance: Kolkata is known for its rich cultural heritage, and Joka is no exception. The area is home to the Alipore Mint and the famed Sabarna Roy Choudhury family's ancestral estate, known as the "Sabarna Sangrahashala." This cultural significance enhances the overall appeal of Joka, attracting individuals who appreciate history and arts.

8. Well-Planned Residential Complexes: Real estate developers in Joka are focused on creating well-planned residential complexes that offer modern amenities and a comfortable living experience. These complexes often include facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, community halls, landscaped gardens, and 24/7 security, providing a convenient and luxurious lifestyle for residents.

9. Growth in Rental Demand: Joka's proximity to educational institutions and employment hubs has led to a growing demand for rental properties. Investors have the opportunity to earn a steady rental income by investing in 1, 2, and 3 BHK flats in Joka. The demand from students, working professionals, and young families seeking affordable housing options ensure a consistent rental market.

10. Infrastructure Development: Joka has witnessed substantial infrastructure development in recent years, attracting attention from real estate developers and investors. The area boasts well-planned residential complexes, modern commercial spaces, and upcoming shopping malls. The expansion of the Joka-BBD Bagh Metro line and the proposed flat near joka metro line will further enhance connectivity, making Joka a preferred choice for homebuyers and investors alike.

Conclusion:

With its strategic location, infrastructure development, affordability, educational institutions, and future growth potential, Joka, Kolkata offers an enticing landscape for investment for property in Joka Kolkata. The area's green surroundings, upcoming commercial developments, cultural significance, and well-planned residential complexes make it an attractive destination for individuals and families looking for a thriving community to call home.

Whether you are an investor seeking returns or a homebuyer searching for a comfortable and affordable lifestyle, Joka has the potential to exceed your expectations. Embrace the possibilities and explore the real estate opportunities that await you in Joka, Kolkata!

[d-realtors]

What Are The Factors I Need To Consider When Buying A Property In Dubai

Thanks to the increased foreign direct investments and free trade agreements between UAE and other countries, Dubai has become one of the most happening cities in the world, especially for the wealthy across the globe.

 Besides free trade, low tax and zero income tax, Dubai is also dubbed as the business hub of the Middle East and enjoys the status as a favorite travel destination. Such features along with political stability and investment in infrastructure significantly boosted the country’s real estate.

 Reportedly, Dubai saw a 76 per cent rise in real estate transactions in 2022 which amounted to a whopping $140 billion, with a majority of buyers from Russia. If you are lured by the lush lifestyle and cheap service from low-wage laborers procured from Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and propelled to buy a property here, here’s how to make a smart purchase and enjoy your slice of the cake.

The Current Trends Of Property Demand In Dubai

While real estate in Dubai is broadly classified on a residential and commercial basis, the former is further classified as villas, apartments, penthouses and working houses or studio apartments that the opulent purchase to house their staff.

The commercial property includes office spaces, trade areas, warehouses, exhibition halls and industrial properties. While the demand for office space is believed to have subsided, the need for warehouses has increased due to enhanced e-commerce developments.

 The huge retail companies and international markets in the Emirates have caused this demand for warehouses and sorting places.

Appreciation For Dubai Property

 The strategic location and accentuating economy add to the appreciation of property value in Dubai. The flawless infrastructure makes any real estate investment fruitful, especially the off-plan ones.

 Through flexible payment plans, off-plan properties have enhanced appreciation since the property price increases as the building nears completion. Likewise, even end users benefit from buying a property at a lower cost with more value for money.

 Buyers can also benefit from various plans provided by promoters like post-handover payment plans and rent-to-own plans to name a few. Early investments offer immense profits through the appreciation perspective.

Allegedly the price of properties which are arriving in the markets here are expected to rise by 25 per cent per year. Demand for villas has superseded those for apartments and despite the shortage of luxury villas, the demand only grows.

 Zeroing In On The Right Property

The buyer must clarify self about the property type, purpose of the purchase, preferred locality and its functionality to satisfy the purpose, amount affordable for purchase, mortgage possibilities and the developer’s reputation to hand over the property in the scheduled time while purchasing the property.

 It is equally important to check the risks involved and estimated ROI on completion of the project.

Timespan Of Occupation

Purchasing a home anywhere across the world, leave alone in Dubai, must be considered on both a short and long-term basis. An apartment purchased by a newlywed or young couple may seem insufficient when the family expands.

Purchasing villas gives the option to expand and redesign besides providing a better return on investments. These villas which are excellently furnished can be sold to one of the increasing numbers of interested buyers if owners choose to relocate to another country.

 Budget

 As of February 2023, the starting price of a property in Dubai is reportedly between AED 3 lakhs to 3.5 lakhs. The price of apartments in Dubai depends upon floor area, locality and amenities among various other factors.

The buyer must be prepared to pay a 10 per cent refundable registration fee while purchasing the desired property.

Location 

The instance found below shows how price varies among localities for almost the same floor area.

 One-bedroom apartments measuring 800 to 900 square feet at Business Bay and Dubai Hills Estate at Mohammed Bin Rasheed are affordable. One-bedroom apartments are also available at Al Wasl (Jumeira), Dubai South City (Jabal Ali) at affordable rates.

 Single-bedroom apartments at Emaar Burj Vista measuring between 700 to 1000 square feet cost more than AED 2,00,000 at Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina. Proximity to Dubai Mall, Dubai Mall Metro Station and easy connectivity to Sheik Zayed Road and Dubai Property justifies the costly price of this single-bedroom apartment.

The Purchase Medium

A buyer could save a lot of money by avoiding brokers or middlemen while purchasing property in Dubai directly from the owner. Notably, brokers charge a 2 per cent agency fee and a 5 per cent VAT charge on the fee.

However, while avoiding brokers, one forgoes professional assessment of properties and expert navigation of transaction details like the contract paperwork, for instance, the art of negotiating.

Dubai Land Department Service Charges

Dubai Land Department service charges, which are mandatory while purchasing property in Dubai, may be shared equally by the buyer and seller or might be entirely paid by the buyer. The DLD charges amount to 4 percent of the property value.

Additionally, the buyer may need to pay a mortgage registration fee if bought through a loan, which amounts to 0.25 per cent of the loan along with AED 290. If the DLD is not paid within 60 days, the purchase is understood to be canceled.

Property Service Charges

The property service charges which are calculated on a square foot basis may range between AED 3 to 30. Besides property service charges one must foot Dubai Electricity and Water Authority fees along with insurance fees, security deposit and property transfer fees.

The property service charge varies along with locations, project type and purchase purpose. The buyer should also pay a ‘sinking fund’ which is a reserve fund that meets expenses for major repairs in future. Interestingly the 10 to 15 per cent price drop in key locations of Dubai facilitates developers selling to new end users.

While places like International City, Discovery Gardens have low service charges at 7 Dirhams per square feet (psf), Business Bay, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Sports City, Jumeirah Village Circle charge moderately at 10 Dirhams psf.

Arabian Ranches 1 and 2 require AED 0.89 psf and 2.44 psf respectively while Burj Vista property owners shell out a massive AED 17.44 psf for property services.

 Amenities And Their Scalability, Effectiveness And Quality

Villas are equipped with clubhouses, gyms and modern equipment and are tagged with excellent resale value. Villas in Dubai Hills, Arabian Ranches, Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Hills, Damac Hills and Al Furjan are sought for 18-hole golf course plus proximity to the city, connectivity to Sheik Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Waterfront view, Privacy with palatial layout, family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to Expo 2020 site in the same order.

Handling Installments

Installment plans are popular in Dubai real estate purchases. 10 percent of the total cost is paid as advance which is followed by installments that cover half the entire cost at the time of handover.

 Documents Required

Copies of documents including Emirates ID, passport, Visa page, reservation form, Sales and Purchase Agreement and Mortgage Contract if applicable required while purchasing property in Dubai.

Check Developer Background

It pays to check the developer’s track records before approaching them to buy property. If the developer lacks dedication, his property abounds in unsatisfactory plans and poor finishes while laying tiles, cupboards and walls.

Where To Purchase Off-Plan Properties

Purchasing a property through D Realtors, a professional and authentic real estate player in Dubai, fetches access to the functionally and aesthetically best property in Dubai which is spread across in prestigious locations such as Mohammed Bin Rashid City, The Fields, Burj Khalifa district and Sheik Zayed Road to name a few.

Final Words

The decision to join the game cannot be delayed too much since the prospects have already caught the eyes of many. Waste no time in deciding to take the plunge because the competition is already in the news.

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[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Matt Davies

* * * *

Biden delivers 2025 budget; House GOP hasn’t passed 2024 budget.

March 12, 2024

ROBERT B. HUBBELL

On Monday, President Biden delivered his 2025 budget proposal to Congress. The 2025 budget highlights important priorities in an election year and deserves attention from every American and news outlet. As expected, news outlets and headline writers began tussling over the “takeaways” from the budget proposal in an effort to “spin” the priorities in the budget. Don’t fall for the disinformation.

Instead, read the budget for yourself (or at least parts of it): Budget of the United States Government, Fiscal Year 2025 (whitehouse.gov).

President Biden included a summary letter (pages 1-3) and an “executive summary” (pages 5-14). If you merely scroll through those two resources, you will inform and educate yourself about the actual proposals by President Biden. Importantly, the introductory pages to the 2025 budget outline the Biden administration’s accomplishments to date. Keep it handy for future discussions with persuadable friends and neighbors.

The proposed budget, if adopted, would:

Reduce the deficit by $3 trillion over the next ten years

Increase taxes on corporations, millionaires, and billionaires

Protect Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid

Protect and expand the Affordable Healthcare Act

Invest in women’s health research

Defend and protect reproductive rights and healthcare

Ensure access to mental healthcare

Provide funding to fight the overdose epidemic

Support K-12 education

Support veterans, their families,

And much more . . .

The Republican response was bizarre and delusional. Trump chose Monday to promise (again) that Republicans would “cut” Social Security and Medicare. (“[T]here’s a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting and in terms of the theft and the bad management of entitlements.”)

Although Trump tried to “walk back” that statement, Trump has repeatedly advocated cutting Social Security and Medicare. See this montage of video clips of Trump calling for cutting Social Security and Medicare. See also Philip Bump in WaPo, Donald Trump stumbles onto the third rail: Social Security reform

The Republican congressional caucus released a “fantasy budget” as an alternative to Biden’s budget. The NYTimes described the GOP fantasy budget as follows:

House Republicans released a budget last week that seeks to reduce deficits much faster — balancing the budget by the end of the decade. Their savings relied on economic growth forecasts that are well above mainstream forecasters’ expectations, along with steep and often unspecified spending cuts.

Got that? The Republican “fantasy budget” is based on unrealistic growth projections and unspecified spending cuts. It’s easy to come up with a balanced budget if you rely on unspecified cuts and imaginary revenue from unrealistic economic assumptions. President Biden has delivered a real budget protecting the heard-earned benefits due to the American people while cutting deficits.

Do not allow anyone to tell you that Republicans have proposed an alternative budget that delivers tax cuts and a balanced budget. They have not! They are engaged in a con game—and you are their mark!

Indeed, the GOP-controlled house has not yet passed the 2024 budget, so it is hypocritical for them to be proposing a 2025 fantasy budget when they have forced the nation to lurch from crisis to crisis. The GOP’s inability to perform the most fundamental task assigned to Congress by the Constitution is inexcusable.

For additional background and detail, see The Guardian, Biden denounces Trump for $2tn tax cuts as he unveils budget plan. 

[Robert B. Hubbell Newsletter]