Wicked For Good: How Four Wicked Superfans Turned the New York Premiere into Their Runway

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

By: Carter Kenney 

When the invitation to the Wicked: For Good New York premiere landed, Logan Allison, Chad Evett, Theo Tiedemann, and Nathaniel Dolquist didn’t just RSVP; they rewrote the dress code. These longtime cosplayers (already beloved by Universal for their viral Elphaba, Glinda, Fiyero, and Wizard content) were determined to evolve their characters from convention floor to fashion week-level glamour. The result? Four breathtaking, hand-crafted red carpet looks that merged Oz mythology with high-octane couture, proving that the most memorable premiere style often comes from the fandom itself.

Logan Allison’s Elphaba was pure wicked elegance. Inspired by the Winkie armor the flying monkeys gift Elphaba in No Good Deed, he and designer Chad Evett translated Oz’s iconic spiral motif into couture armor using an almost-forgotten technique: rickrack ribbon folded origami-style into perfect triangles, then meticulously sewn into swirling patterns across the shoulders. The armor crowned a sharply tailored black crop blazer and dramatically flared high-waisted trousers, creating an exaggerated hourglass silhouette that screamed Defying Gravity without the use of a cape. Emerald green graphic eye makeup and contour sealed the spell. “Your style, the way you dress, is often the first thing anyone sees about you,” Logan laughs, “you can tell everything about a person from how they dress. And in channeling Elphaba, I wanted to communicate her journey, the strength she finds in becoming the Wicked Witch, while also displaying the beauty of this change and her character’s growth. ”

Wicked For Good: How Four Wicked Superfans Turned the New York Premiere into Their Runway

Photo Courtesy: Emily Kay Shrader

Chad Evett, the group’s resident designer and the mastermind behind every stitch, embodied Glinda as a living watercolor painting. Starting with a thrifted base, he hand-painted organza and silk in bubblegum pinks and sky blues, then diluted fabric dye with rubbing alcohol so the colors bled and blurred like wet paint. Butterfly appliqués exploded across exaggerated shoulders, and under the Lincoln Center lights, the entire look shimmered like a Monet in motion. “I wanted sparkle, glitz, and a little bit of every Glinda who came before me,” Chad says. 

Theo Tiedemann channeled the Wizard with stealth-wealth Emerald City energy. His hero piece: a thrifted trench reimagined in deep landscape green, hand-painted with oversized red poppies that were then encrusted with Swarovski crystals for maximum flashbulb impact. Tinted emerald sunglasses (mandatory Ozian eyewear) were sourced last-minute before the flight to New York for the premiere. Everything else came from Theo’s own closet, styled with the confidence of someone who finally found his fashion voice post-transition. “I only bought the sunglasses and tie,” Theo grins. “The rest was upcycled, one of my favorite ways to create an outfit.”

Nathaniel Dolquist, the group’s resident Disney prince incarnate, stormed the carpet as Fiyero in electric blue velvet. Chad transformed the suit (found and purchased on the very first try in L.A.’s Garment District) into a military-meets-couture masterpiece: asymmetrical mirrored lapels, 3-D origami ribbon shoulder plates cascading down the back, and dozens of mirrored (not rhinestone) crystals that turned him into a walking disco ball. “I wanted to honor Paul Tazewell’s blue Fiyero costume from the first movie while incorporating elements of his role as captain of the Gale Force from the second,” Nathaniel explains.

Wicked For Good: How Four Wicked Superfans Turned the New York Premiere into Their Runway

Photo Credit: Joshua Brandenburg

Four friends, one shared obsession, zero rules. In an evening dominated by designer gowns and A-list stylists, these self-made looks (hand-painted, crystal-encrusted, and sewn through glue-fume-fueled all-nighters) stopped traffic on the emerald carpet. These four talents are proof that when passion meets craftsmanship, the result isn’t just fashion: it’s magic.

 

Gabriella Pomare’s Approach to Redefining Divorce: From Broken Families to New Beginnings

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

By: Priscilla D. Blanton

For too long, the story of divorce has been one of destruction. We picture broken homes, angry ex-partners, and confused children caught in the middle. This story tells us that a family has failed. It says that the end of a marriage means the end of a family unit. But what if that story is not entirely accurate? What if separation is not always an ending, but potentially a difficult yet powerful new beginning? A growing movement is challenging the old narrative. Award-winning lawyer and author Gabriella Pomare is leading the charge to reframe the conversation. Her book, The Collaborative Co-Parent, offers a new approach for those navigating separation and divorce. She teaches that a family can evolve, not necessarily break.

The Old Story of Separation

The traditional path of divorce is often filled with conflict. Parents may fight over assets and parenting time. They might use children as messengers or even weapons. Children may feel forced to choose sides. They carry the weight of their parents’ anger and sadness. This environment can create stress and anxiety for everyone. In many cases, it leaves lasting emotional scars on children. The system often encourages this battle, as it pits parent against parent in a win-or-lose scenario. But what are they really winning? The cost is often the well-being of their children. This outdated model focuses on what is ending, while overlooking what must continue: the family.

Introducing a New Vision

Gabriella Pomare offers a different vision. She calls it collaborative co-parenting. This philosophy shifts the focus from conflict to cooperation. It moves from ending a relationship to potentially restructuring a family. The goal is to foster a new kind of family dynamic. This structure has two homes connected by respect and a shared purpose. The children remain at the center of this new family. They are not pawns in a game. They are the most important people in the room. This approach requires a conscious decision. Parents must be willing to put their children’s needs above their own hurt. This is the core message of Gabriella Pomare’s work and her important book, The Collaborative Co-Parent.

The Expert Who Lives the Philosophy

Gabriella Pomare is not just a theorist. She is a highly experienced family lawyer who has witnessed the complexities of divorce. She has handled challenging cases involving high conflict and international child custody. She understands the legal battlefield intimately. But her expertise goes beyond the courtroom. She is also a mother who has navigated her own separation. She knows the feeling of waking up alone and wondering about the future. She has felt the sting of failure. Then she heard her son call out for her. In that moment, she knew her mission was to protect him. This personal experience gives her advice remarkable authenticity. She does not just give advice. She lives the philosophy she teaches.

The Core Tools for a New Family Dynamic

So, how does this restructuring work? The Collaborative Co-Parent by Gabriella Pomare is a practical guide. It provides the essential tools for this journey. One key tool is communication. The book teaches parents how to talk to each other without anger. It advises listening first, pausing to think, and then responding with respect. Parents learn to see their relationship as a partnership. Their shared business is raising happy and healthy children. Another tool is creating stability. Children need routine and consistent rules in both homes. This makes them feel safe and secure. The book also guides parents on how to speak about each other. It is vital that children never hear one parent insult the other. This helps preserve the child’s love for both parents.

The Lifelong Impact of a Collaborative Choice

Choosing a collaborative path is not just about making life easier today. It is about influencing the future of your children. Children who grow up in a cooperative co-parenting environment may learn vital lessons. They may learn how to solve problems peacefully. They see that relationships can end with dignity. They understand that love for a child is constant, even when living situations change. These children could become more resilient and emotionally secure adults. They are likely to love both parents without guilt. By choosing collaboration, parents may give their children a priceless gift. They give them a childhood free from the burden of adult conflict. This is the powerful message that Gabriella Pomare advocates for.

A Call to Change the Story

The old story of divorce is one of loss. The new story, championed by Gabriella Pomare, is one of transformation. It is a difficult but potentially rewarding path that requires courage and commitment. However, the potential rewards are significant: a future where children thrive. It leads to a life where parents can find peace and even a new form of partnership. The Collaborative Co-Parent is more than a book. It is a manifesto for a gentler, more respectful way to navigate family change. It shows that the end of a marriage does not have to mean the end of a family. It could be the start of a new chapter, written with intention and love.

If you are facing separation, consider letting this book be your guide. To learn the practical steps for building a collaborative future for your children, you can get your copy of The Collaborative Co-Parent by Gabriella Pomare today. It is available at Barnes & Noble or directly through Gabriella Pomare’s website.

The Awakening of Marianne

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

By: Matt Emma

Marianne’s Magical Journey begins with a little girl named Marianne, who lives an ordinary life but carries an unexplained sadness in her heart. Despite having a loving family and going to school like any other child, Marianne feels confused and lost about the purpose of the things she does every day.

Her life takes a magical turn when she meets Banu, a beautiful, talking parrot from the Amazon rainforest. This encounter becomes the doorway to a remarkable adventure, one that teaches her, and readers alike, what it truly means to be happy.

The Magical Encounter That Changes Everything

One ordinary afternoon, Marianne follows her curiosity into a pet store and meets Banu. The colorful bird senses her sadness and begins to share his own story, of being captured, taken from his jungle home, and yet still finding joy in every moment. Through Banu, Marianne learns about Matori, the wise guardian of the jungle who ensures that no creature remains sad. Intrigued, Marianne begins to dream of a world filled with magic, freedom, and harmony, a world far beyond the walls of her daily routine.

This meeting becomes the first spark that ignites Marianne’s transformation. She learns that happiness isn’t about where you are, but how deeply you connect to the life around you.

A Journey into the Heart of the Amazon

When Matori appears, he invites Marianne to journey with him to the Amazon rainforest. Through the power of belief and magic, she transforms into a bird and experiences the beauty of the jungle firsthand.

Surrounded by vibrant trees, singing creatures, and colorful skies, Marianne discovers a living world where everything is connected; every flower, insect, and bird plays a part in the grand pattern of life. Under Matori’s guidance, she learns that true joy comes from feeling part of something bigger than oneself.

It is in the rainforest that Marianne finally understands what has been missing in her life: connection, purpose, and appreciation for the miracle of being alive.

The Secret of Happiness

Matori reveals to Marianne that the secret of life, and the secret to happiness, is realizing that everything in nature is connected. When one sees oneself as part of the whole, loneliness disappears.

Marianne learns that sadness often comes from feeling separate or alone, but in truth, no one is ever truly alone. Whether we are people, birds, or even tiny insects like the brave flea and butterfly in the story, we all belong to the same pattern of life.

This lesson transforms Marianne’s heart forever.

A Return with New Understanding

When the time comes to leave the rainforest, Marianne returns home carrying

Matori’s wisdom is within her. She is no longer the sad, confused girl she once was. Her heart is full of joy and gratitude, and she sees the world differently, as a place filled with beauty, connection, and endless magic.

Back in her city life, she remembers her promise to protect nature and spread kindness. Although no one realizes she was ever gone, Marianne carries the rainforest’s light inside her forever.

Conclusion

Marianne’s Magical Journey is more than a children’s fantasy; it’s a timeless reminder that happiness comes from within. The story beautifully teaches that life is magical when we see ourselves as part of its living web.

Marianne’s transformation mirrors what every reader can experience: when we stop feeling separate and start appreciating the connection between ourselves, others, and nature, sadness fades, and true joy begins.

In the end, the story reminds us that magic isn’t something you find; it’s something you feel when your heart is open to the world around you.

How To Build Your Own Factory For Good

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

You Already Have the Tools to Build a Factory For Good 

Many founders know how to build a successful business — but few have learned how to build systems for doing good and driving lasting impact.

When the desire to give grows beyond the business itself, it can be hard to know where to begin. That’s where Factory For Good comes in — helping individuals and families turn their success into something deeper: a purpose-driven framework for impact that endures.

At Factory For Good, they are focused on helping families apply a practical framework for transforming purpose into measurable impact. The nonprofit believes impact is not an afterthought, but rather the next phase of enterprise design. At Factory For Good, the team does this by showing individuals and families how to use existing skills, resources, and relationships to create their own factory. 

Factory For Good exists at the intersection of entrepreneurship and giving back while helping builders turn their wealth into impact. 

The Idea—What Is a Factory For Good?

At Factory For Good, their main goal is to help you build your own factory for good. A factory represents any repeatable system that converts time, talent, and financial success into lasting impact. This could be a post-exit entrepreneur preparing to move from building a company to philanthropic work or a family wanting to give back with the wealth they have worked so hard to create.

But you don’t have to be a founder to build a factory. Anyone can. A family seeking more intentional ways to give. An individual searching for greater purpose. A team ready to turn shared values into shared action.

Your Factory might take many forms — a family fund that fuels giving, a mentorship network that opens doors, or an investment strategy that sustains good over time.

Just like any successful enterprise, a factory for good runs on a clear structure: inputs, operations, and outputs. But instead of products, it produces impact.

And the framework is simple. Every Factory For Good is built on three foundational pillars: purpose, relationships, and legacy. These are what transform good intentions into systems that last and generosity into something you can live now, not just leave.

Step 1—Define Your Purpose

As you step forward into building your factory, your first step will be to find your purpose. The purpose is the blueprint of every factory. 

Defining your purpose begins with reflection. It’s about paying attention to what moves you — the causes that matter, the values that guide you, and the communities that feel like home.

Ask yourself:

  • What kind of impact feels personal?
  • What problems keep me up at night?
  • What would I build if profit didn’t matter?

If you’ve built a company before, you’ve already done this work — identifying needs, defining purpose, and creating systems to serve them. Now, it’s about channeling that same clarity into your next chapter of impact.

And if you’re building alongside your family, start there. Explore what matters most to each of you. The shared values you uncover will become the foundation for your own factory for good.

If you are struggling to figure out what your purpose could be or would like help, Factory For Good has a Happiness Audit that can clarify fulfillment looks for you. 

Purpose gives your Factory its blueprint; clarity before complexity. 

Step 2—Strengthen Your Relationships

Relationships are the engine that powers your factory.

No one builds meaningful impact alone. A person or family can do a lot individually, but true growth comes through collaboration. When you build with others, your reach expands, your ideas deepen, and your good multiplies.

Start by connecting with the people already around you — partners, peers, families, and local communities. These are the foundations of shared impact. Every shared effort brings generosity to life in new ways.

At Factory For Good, they’ve seen that the most powerful legacies are collective ones. Founders and families who give together sustain their impact far longer than those who give alone — because relationships are renewable capital. When directed toward a shared mission, they don’t diminish; they multiply.

So ask yourself: Who can I build with?

Most people want to help — they just need an invitation. When you create the space for connection, you turn giving into something bigger than yourself.

With your purpose defined and your relationships beside you, you’re already laying the foundation for a legacy that lasts.

Step 3—Build A Legacy That Lasts

Legacy is what emerges when your Factory is working as it should — when purpose and relationships come together to create lasting impact.

It’s not something that waits at the end of your success. Legacy is alive, a system that continues to create value long after you’ve stepped away. It grows through the structures you’ve built, the people you’ve empowered, and the causes you’ve set in motion.

Families who follow the factory framework often see their legacy take shape in living forms: education initiatives that open doors, mentorship programs that shape futures, and community investments that strengthen neighborhoods. These aren’t one-time acts of generosity, they’re systems designed to last.

Building a legacy requires a long-term mindset. You’re not creating moments; you’re creating momentum. The true catalyst for good is the structure that keeps giving after you’re gone.

The Framework in Action

Factory For Good is both a resource, nonprofit organization, and community designed to help people build their own factory.
They have tools you can use, like:

  • The Happiness Audit to help you identify and clarify purpose
  • The Factory For Good Builder, helping you figure out what you care about and where to give.
  • The Factory Friday newsletter to help you learn from others’ systems, keeping the momentum alive. 

Beyond tools, Factory For Good is a growing community of founders, families, and builders who are redefining success through systems that scale impact. 

Start Building Your Factory For Good

Most philanthropists don’t just stumble upon their purpose, they build it. They make the decision to turn intention into structure, to turn moments of generosity into systems of impact.

You can start that same journey today by defining your values, nurturing your relationships, and taking the first small step toward a legacy that lasts. Because every great factory begins with a spark of purpose and the courage to act on it.

The most meaningful factories aren’t powered by machines; they’re powered by people, by vision, compassion, and the belief that doing good can be designed with intention.

Your legacy doesn’t have to wait. You can start building yours today and in doing so, create a factory for good that keeps working long after you do.

ActivTrak’s Impact on EdTech Teams and Remote Learning Success

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

You have probably had an experience: one day, you are in the classroom, learning face-to-face; the following day, you teach students through a video-conferencing platform, and your EdTech team will assist in creating and rolling out the content, as well as handling logistics for hybrid learning. This is a dynamic change that offers opportunity and pressure to remote learning employees and hybrid teachers.

Teaching teams are not merely teaching, but they are working together on technology, handling asynchronous material, balancing student support, and responding to continuously changing learning spaces.

Let’s read more!

Why It Matters: The Case of Insights in EdTech Teams

With remote and hybrid classes, the people in charge frequently have to fulfill many roles: instructor, facilitator, content creator, and technical troubleshooter. That complexity demands clarity: knowing where time is spent, which tasks are misaligned, and how team members are actually performing.

That is where a powerful employee productivity software can be applied. Data on digital activity cross-linked with team analytics can provide educational technology leadership with practical insights into what is happening in the workflow, what is preventing it, and what teams cannot collaborate on.

  • Get an idea of how much time content developers waste updating the platform and working with students.
  • Determine whether teachers are spending too much time on administrative tasks rather than on students.

Important Workforce-Management Insights that Matter in EdTech

Here are the key insights.

1. Visibility & Workflow Awareness

When teams are dispersed, with some in the classroom and others remote, invisible work may become the norm.

Hybrid educators frequently take on hidden microtasks, such as fixing minor tech issues, preparing last-minute slides, reviewing student submissions outside official hours, or responding to multiple communication channels. Visibility tools bring these tasks to the surface so leaders can understand accurate workload distribution.

2. Custom Metrics & Benchmarking

It is one thing to monitor time spent. Another thing is to specify practical measures for educators and EdTech teams: preparation time, live communication with students, asynchronous development of modules, platform maintenance, and teamwork.

3. Flexibility + Autonomy

It has been found that remote/hybrid teams flourish under autonomy and structure. For educators, it implies flexibility and the tools and visibility to ensure teams are on track and remain effective.

When teachers have autonomy to organize lesson planning time or asynchronous module updates, they tend to experiment more creatively with digital pedagogy. Productivity insights help ensure this freedom doesn’t drift into inefficiency or overwhelm.

4. Team Cohesion Teamwork.

The disadvantage of hybrid teams is that they may lack spontaneous interaction, which, in turn, can slow innovation and support.

Scheduled sync-ups, shared dashboards, and transparent goals can reconnect distributed teams, making collaboration feel intentional rather than forced.

Remote Learning Staff Practical Applications Hybrid Educators

We can work through the ways an EdTech leader can utilize these insights:

  1. Assign roles and workflow: Name essential roles, including “hybrid instructor”, “content developer”, “platform support specialist”. In each case, list common tasks (delivering live lessons, asynchronous content development, solving tech-tickets) and pinpoint pain-points.
  2. Install dynamic dashboards: Have a program that monitors time usage in applications, tasks, and devices. During instructional activities, hybrid instructors often spend significant time on scheduling and administrative tasks rather than directly teaching students.
  3. Trigger alerts and support: if the time-in-system of support staff surges past the threshold or slips below target, automatically put under review.
  4. Clarify the intention and establish credibility: Employees need to know that the goal is to promote enlightenment and improve monitoring.

Conclusion

Prompt yourself: Which of your remote or hybrid educator team data insights workflows might be enhanced this week? Select one measure, create some visibility, communicate your purpose to your team, and begin the process. 

Radius Debuts in New York Market, Offering Luxury Teams AI-Powered Independence from Major Brokerages

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

Company’s entry into Manhattan positions luxury real estate teams with cutting-edge technology to compete with major brokerages.

NEW YORK, NY – November 21, 2025 – Radius, the first AI-powered brokerage platform for top-producing teams and brokerages, today announced its expansion into the New York market. This strategic growth marks a significant milestone in Radius’s mission to empower high-performing real estate teams with comprehensive technology solutions while maintaining their independent brand identity.

The New York expansion brings Radius’s white-labeled platform to one of the nation’s most competitive luxury real estate markets. The company has appointed a managing broker and secured licensing to support New York-based teams, with initial partners including luxury market specialists transitioning from major brokerages, including Compass and Williams & Williams.

“Entering New York represents a major step in our growth strategy,” said Biju Ashokan, Founder and CEO of Radius. “The luxury market here demands the highest level of service and the most polished professional image. Our platform gives independent teams the technology to compete with major brands while building their own reputation. New York agents can now leverage our AI-powered tools, integrated communications, and complete transaction management without sacrificing their brand identity.”

The expansion addresses a critical need among top-producing New York teams seeking technology infrastructure that matches their sophistication without requiring them to sacrifice independence. Radius’s platform integrates AI assistant Mel, VoIP phone systems, transaction management, and comprehensive back-office support into a single solution that teams can white-label under their own branding.

While many brokerages make promises about AI capabilities, Radius distinguishes itself through proven results and ground-up technology integration rather than bolt-on solutions. 

“There’s certainly no shortage of brokerages making promises about AI. In fact, a few even claim to offer assistants that can handle marketing, communication, and compliance. However, those promises rarely yield real-life benefits,” noted Ashokan. 

“Radius is the real deal. We’re not a social media gimmick or a marketing-first brokerage. We’re a technology company with proven results from the most advanced brokerage product in the market today. Our AI assistant doesn’t just draft ideas; it drives your operations, keeps your agents productive, and your clients connected.”

New York partners gain immediate access to Radius’s full suite of features, including automated client communication, proactive lead nurturing, intelligent documentation management, and seamless transaction workflows. The platform eliminates the need to juggle multiple vendor systems while enabling team leaders to focus on growth and client relationships rather than administrative tasks.

“Our technology particularly resonates with luxury brands who understand that their clients expect a premium experience at every touchpoint,” added Ashokan. “Teams in Manhattan’s high-end market need systems that reflect their caliber of service. Radius provides that foundation while letting them maintain complete control of their brand.”

The New York launch follows Radius’s recent expansion of services, including the introduction of Radius Escrow in California and enhanced AI prospecting capabilities through Mel. The company currently supports over 200 real estate teams nationwide with backing from industry leaders, including Pete Flint (Founder of Trulia), Spencer Rascoff (Co-founder of Zillow), Gokul Rajaram, Cota Capital, Sierra Ventures, Crosscut Ventures, and Atlantic Vantage Point.

Radius is actively partnering with established New York teams and welcomes inquiries from luxury market specialists seeking to elevate their operations with best-in-class technology. For more information about bringing Radius’s white-labeled platform to your New York team, visit https://www.radiusagent.com.

About Radius

Radius is the premier tech-driven brokerage firm for real estate professionals eager to grow their brands and profits. Radius empowers real estate brokerages and teams to grow their businesses while saving them time and money. Visit https://www.radiusagent.com/ to learn more.

Contact

Heather Hook
KeyCrew Media
heather@keycrew.co

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. While the companies and technologies discussed may offer innovative solutions, success is not guaranteed. Results may vary based on individual circumstances, market conditions, and other factors beyond control.

Citizenship Programs in 2026: The Evolving Global Market and Caribbean Regulatory Framework

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

By 2026, only around ten Citizenship By Investment countries will maintain active, government-sanctioned citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs: the five Caribbean jurisdictions of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia; the two Pacific nations of Vanuatu and Nauru; as well as Jordan, Egypt, and Türkiye.

The April 2025 ruling of the European Court of Justice, which brought Malta’s CBI program—the last of its kind within the European Union—to an end, effectively closed the door on investment-based citizenship anywhere within the EU or among states seeking future accession. The decision formalised what had already become a rapid European retreat from CBI as a legitimate policy instrument.

Prospective CBI applicants are redirecting their attention to jurisdictions where frameworks remain legislated, operational, and internationally recognised. As a result, the Caribbean is expected to become a key centre for the global CBI industry—the only region offering programs marked by multi-year regulatory development, efficient administrative systems, and well-established due diligence structures.

Caribbean CBI Policy Reform

With European CBI programs closing in 2025 and global interest in investment migration continuing to grow, Caribbean governments have moved to undertake the industry’s most ambitious regional reform initiative to date. The formation of the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (EC-CIRA), a region-wide supervisory body headquartered in Grenada, responds simultaneously to regional governance priorities and to external requirements from the United States, the European Union, and other key partners.

This new institutional architecture introduces shared regulations, aligned investment thresholds, and cross-border enforcement capabilities, signaling to international partners that the region is committed to strengthening transparency, security, and integrity. Key foundations of the new regulatory framework include:

1. Application Caps

EC-CIRA will assign and enforce annual quotas on each of the five participating jurisdictions. These caps serve a dual purpose: managing program volume and acting as an enforcement mechanism. Non-compliant countries risk having their quotas reduced—even suspended entirely.

2. Standardised Applicant Requirements and Obligations

The reform package introduces region-wide obligations such as:

  • Minimum 30-day physical presence within the first five years
  • Civic or cultural orientation requirements
  • Mandatory video or in-person interviews
  • Five-year initial passport validity tied to compliance
  • Financial penalties for non-compliance and the possibility of revocation proceedings.

These changes shift CBI away from transactional citizenship and toward a model anchored in ongoing engagement.

3. Unified Data and Shared Rejection Lists

A new regional digital database will house all applications, approvals, and denials. Under this system, a rejection in one Caribbean state automatically applies across all five. Screening will also incorporate CARICOM IMPACS-JRCC to enhance due diligence with regional intelligence and law-enforcement expertise.

4. Independent Oversight of Agents and Developers

All market participants must be pre-qualified by EC-CIRA before operating region-wide. The Authority will be empowered to investigate, license, sanction, and revoke permissions. Annual audits of national CBI Units will further harmonise standards and improve transparency.

5. Region-Wide Minimum Investment Thresholds

The Caribbean is introducing a common minimum investment level of US$200,000, reinforcing a coordinated approach to economic sustainability and preventing market erosion through underpricing.

What the New Framework Means for CBI Participants

For prospective applicants, the Caribbean’s transition to a coordinated regulatory structure brings:

  • Predictability: clearer rules, consistent standards, and aligned investment thresholds
  • Reduced risk: integrated data-sharing and region-wide rejection enforcement
  • More robust due diligence: with CARICOM IMPACS-JRCC adding intelligence-driven vetting
  • Long-term program continuity: as governments move toward stability over competition.

Rather than facing a patchwork of varying systems, CBI investors entering in 2026 will encounter a harmonised, multi-state ecosystem governed by a single regulatory authority.

Conclusion

By 2026, the Citizenship by Investment market will be characterised by a significantly narrower selection of options. As global demand for second citizenship continues to rise, with only ten active CBI programs remaining worldwide and Europe absent from the CBI market entirely, the Caribbean Citizenship by Investment transitions from a group of independent programs to an integrated regulatory community, a defining development shaping the CBI industry’s future.

The establishment of EC-CIRA marks a decisive step toward a unified model built on harmonisation, transparency, and accountability. For governments, this provides a powerful mechanism for safeguarding program integrity and long-term sustainability. For CBI investors, it offers a more predictable and professionally governed environment.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute immigration, legal, tax, investment, or financial advice, nor should it be relied upon as a substitute for professional guidance. Citizenship-by-Investment (CBI) regulations and eligibility requirements are subject to change and may vary based on individual circumstances. Readers should consult qualified legal, immigration, and financial professionals for advice tailored to their specific situation. No entity associated with the creation of this article assumes responsibility for any actions taken based on its content.

John Edward Jacob on Resilience, Civil Rights, and Why He “Fears No Evil”

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

By: Elowen Gray

When Vernon E. Jordan Jr. was shot in 1980, the National Urban League was thrown into crisis. The civil rights icon was clinging to life in an Indiana hospital, and the movement he helped lead suddenly faced uncertainty. Into that void stepped John Edward Jacob — a quieter, steadier figure known more for strategy than headlines.

Two years later, Jacob was officially named Jordan’s successor. From 1982 to 1994, he served as president of the Urban League, steering the century-old organization through some of its toughest years.

Now in his nineties, Jacob is sharing his journey in a new memoir, I Will Fear No Evil.
It’s part history lesson, part personal testimony — a look back at how a boy from segregated Houston became one of the most influential civil rights leaders of his era.

From a Three-Room House to Howard University

Jacob’s childhood in Houston was defined by poverty and segregation. The youngest of six children, he grew up in a three-room house with no electricity or plumbing. His mother cooked on a wood stove, and he studied by kerosene light.

“I refused to ride segregated buses,” he recalls. “I walked miles to school instead.”

Despite the obstacles, Jacob excelled. He became president of his senior class and the honor society at Jack Yates High School.  A scholarship changed his trajectory, taking him to Howard University, where he studied economics, joined ROTC, and was commissioned as an Army officer before turning toward social work.

The Strategist of the Urban League

Jacob’s path into national leadership wasn’t flashy — it was deliberate. He joined the Washington affiliate of the Urban League in 1965, later led the San Diego chapter, and returned to Washington in 1979 as executive vice president.

When Jordan resigned in 1982, Jacob took the helm. He immediately rolled out what he called the Urban Marshall Plan, a bold demand for government and corporate investment in Black communities, centered on jobs, housing, and education.

“We want jobs, not reasons why we can’t get those jobs,” he told delegates at the League’s annual conference, setting the tone for his presidency.

Confronting the Reagan Years

Jacob’s tenure collided with the conservative revolution of Ronald Reagan.
Social programs were being cut, unemployment soared, and the civil rights consensus of the 1960s seemed to wane. 

Jacob pressed forward anyway, clashing with federal officials while building partnerships with corporations willing to invest in Black workers and entrepreneurs.

He also championed Project Thrive, a program aimed at steering youth away from drugs and gangs by focusing on education, mentorship, and community service.
For Jacob, the work was always both systemic and personal: change the laws, but also change the lives.

Speaking Out Against Apartheid

Jacob was also outspoken on global justice. Under his leadership, the Urban League became an important voice in the American movement against apartheid in South Africa. He urged companies to cut ties with Pretoria’s white-minority regime and pressed lawmakers to impose sanctions.

“We cannot stand silent while our brothers and sisters are denied their basic humanity,” he said at the time.

From Advocacy to the Boardroom

After stepping down in 1994, Jacob entered corporate America as executive vice president at Anheuser-Busch. He later served on nonprofit and corporate boards, one of the few civil rights leaders of his generation to bridge activism and business at such a high level.

A Life of Preparation

In his memoir, Jacob reflects on the lessons he’s carried across nine decades.
Chief among them: preparation. “I never asked to be Urban League president,” he writes. “But I had spent every second preparing for it.”

The title of his book, I Will Fear No Evil — speaks to that mindset. To Jacob, courage is not the absence of obstacles but the determination to face them.

“The progress we made was real,” he says today, “but it was never complete. Each generation inherits the responsibility to move it forward.”

For John Edward Jacob, that responsibility has always been clear: fight for opportunity, demand justice, and never let fear stand in the way.

The Complete Guide to Basic Surf Lessons at Santa Barbara Surf Lessons: Start Your Journey With Confidence

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

By: Jaxon Lee

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave, the right place to start is with basic surf lessons guided by trained professionals. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed introduction to the ocean or a structured learning path with a certified surf instructor, finding a trustworthy school makes all the difference. For those beginning their surf journey in the USA, there are many options available—especially at well-established schools like Santa Barbara Surf School. This guide will help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how to choose a programme for your level.

Learning to surf is more than standing on a board; it’s about understanding ocean behaviour, safety, equipment, and technique. That’s why taking professional lessons is the safest and effective way for new surfers to develop strong foundations from the beginning. Before you book your first session, it’s important to know what makes a great surfing school and what your early learning experience will look like

What to Look for When Choosing a Surf Lesson

Choosing the right surf lesson is essential for building confidence and staying safe in the water. Not all schools offer the same level of structure or support, so it’s worth considering several key factors before signing up.

First, look at the teaching approach. A reliable school will offer step-by-step instruction beginning on land, covering basics such as paddling technique, board positioning, popping up, and wave timing. This ensures that by the time you enter the water, you already understand essential mechanics.

Next, evaluate the class size. Smaller groups allow for more personalised feedback, helping you improve faster. Many new surfers benefit from semi-private or private lessons, especially if they feel nervous or want individual attention.

Finally, review the school’s safety standards. Certified instructors should demonstrate strong knowledge of ocean safety, rip currents, board handling, and emergency procedures. These elements are crucial for beginners, who need reassurance and hands-on guidance as they learn.

A well-structured surf lesson should leave you feeling supported, encouraged, and excited for your next session.

Why a Good Surf Instructor Makes the Difference

A good surf instructor is an important factor in your learning experience. Surfing may look effortless from shore, but balancing on a moving board in an ever-changing environment can be challenging. A skilled instructor not only teaches technique but also reads the ocean on your behalf, helping you enter the water at the right time and select waves suitable for learning.

Instructors who specialise in lessons for new surfers know how to break down complex movements into simple steps. Instead of overwhelming you with theory, they create a learning environment that feels fun, structured, and achievable. You’ll learn how to paddle efficiently, position yourself correctly on the board, recognise safe conditions, and understand surf etiquette—all under professional guidance.

A knowledgeable surf instructor also adjusts the pace based on your confidence level. Whether it’s your first time in the ocean or you already have basic swimming experience, the right instructor can transform the entire process from intimidating to exciting.

Understanding Surf Lessons for Beginners

When searching for surf lessons for beginners, it’s important to choose programmes designed explicitly for first-time surfers. Beginner lessons focus on fundamentals rather than advanced manoeuvres, helping you build strong foundational skills.

Many beginner sessions begin on the beach, where you’ll:

  • Learn about board anatomy and handling
  • Practise paddling technique
  • Master the “pop-up” to stand correctly
  • Understand wave selection and timing
  • Review safety rules and ocean behaviour

Once you’re comfortable, you’ll move into shallow water with gentle, rolling waves ideal for new surfers. Your instructor will help you catch your first wave, often giving the board a gentle push to ensure proper speed. This early support helps build confidence quickly, allowing you to transition into independently catching and riding waves as the lesson progresses.

High-quality surf lessons for beginners also include feedback after each attempt. This constant guidance accelerates improvement and helps you avoid common mistakes many self-taught surfers struggle with.

Why Basic Surf Lessons Are the Ideal Way to Start

Professional basic surf lessons give beginners a structured environment that helps them learn faster and more safely than going alone. Surfing involves more than physical movement; it requires understanding ocean dynamics, weather patterns, and board control. For beginners, these elements can feel overwhelming without proper guidance.

Taking structured lessons removes uncertainty. You’ll learn at a pace suited to your ability, with a trained professional always watching conditions and guiding your next step. This reduces frustration and significantly increases your chances of standing up on your board during your first session.

Moreover, basic lessons establish habits that stay with you as you progress. Proper paddling technique, correct foot positioning, and early awareness of safety rules all contribute to long-term success in surfing. Without guidance, beginners often develop incorrect habits that become harder to fix later.

When taught correctly, the foundations laid during basic surf lessons allow you to transition into intermediate waves and more advanced techniques with confidence.

What to Expect in Your First Surf Session

Your first lesson combines practical skill-building with fun, confidence-boosting moments. New surfers typically experience the following stages:

1. On-Beach Introduction

You’ll meet your instructor, review equipment, practise dry-land pop-ups, and learn essential safety tips.

2. Warm-Up and Positioning

A short warm-up prepares your muscles, and your instructor will show you how to position your board in the water.

3. Entering the Surf Zone

In shallow water, you’ll practise paddling and catching small waves with instructor support.

4. Your First Wave

Many students stand up successfully within their first session—thanks to the techniques introduced earlier.

5. Feedback and Adjustment

Instructors review your attempts and help you refine foot placement, balance, and timing.

6. Independent Attempts

As your confidence grows, you’ll begin catching waves with less assistance.

Learning through a structured format makes the process enjoyable and encourages progression at every stage.

How to Prepare Before Taking Surf Lessons

Before signing up for your first surf lesson, a small amount of preparation can help you feel more confident and comfortable.

  • Improve basic swimming skills for safety and confidence
  • Stretch and strengthen your core, which helps with paddling
  • Arrive early to adjust equipment and warm up
  • Wear appropriate surf gear based on water temperature
  • Bring sunscreen and water, as lessons can be physically demanding

These simple steps enhance your experience and allow you to focus entirely on learning during your session.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Surf Journey With Confidence

Whether you’re drawn to the ocean for relaxation, excitement, or a brand-new challenge, beginning with basic surf lessons is the smartest and safest way to learn. Professional programmes provide the instruction, safety knowledge, and encouragement needed for success. With the support of an experienced surf instructor and well-structured surf lessons for beginners, anyone—regardless of age or experience—can enjoy their first wave with confidence.

By choosing reputable schools in the USA that emphasise quality instruction and strong safety practices, you’re taking the first step toward becoming a capable, confident surfer. And with reliable options like Santa Barbara Surf School offering lessons explicitly designed for beginners, there has never been a better time to start your surfing journey.

Secure Your Cloud with Opsio Cloud’s Expert Pentest Solutions

NY Weekly Staff on November 21, 2025

By: Jaxon Lee

In today’s rapidly evolving digital environment, cloud platforms have become the backbone of modern business operations. From hosting critical applications to managing sensitive data, organizations rely heavily on cloud infrastructures for speed, scalability, and flexibility. But with this convenience comes an equally rising challenge — cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent and sophisticated. This is why businesses must prioritize strong cloud security, and an effective way to do so is to invest in pentest cloud services.

At Opsio Cloud, helping businesses build a secure digital foundation is a core mission. Through expert penetration testing, risk assessment, and vulnerability monitoring, the company ensures your cloud environment stays protected from cyber threats before they cause real damage.

Why Your Business Needs Pentest Cloud Services

With organizations increasingly shifting to cloud platforms, attackers are shifting their focus too. This means your cloud systems — whether public, private, or hybrid — require continuous testing and monitoring. Using pentest cloud services helps uncover hidden vulnerabilities in your environment.

Here’s why pentesting is essential:

1. Identify Vulnerabilities Before Hackers Do

Cloud systems can contain misconfigurations, outdated components, weak access controls, or integration flaws. Pentesting exposes these weaknesses early, keeping your business a step ahead of attackers.

2. Strengthen Your Cloud Security Framework

By understanding where your system is vulnerable, your security team can take proactive action. Pentesting enables better hardening, improved policies, and stronger access management.

3. Ensure Compliance and Industry Standards

Many industries require regular penetration testing to meet compliance standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO 27001. Pentesting not only protects your cloud but also strengthens your business credibility.

How Comprehensive Pentest Services Work

When you use pentest cloud services, the process is detailed and systematic. It involves:

1. Cloud Asset Mapping

Security experts begin by identifying and mapping all cloud-connected assets — applications, databases, APIs, user roles, and more. This gives a clear view of what needs to be tested.

2. Manual + Automated Testing

Both automated scanning tools and manual attack simulations are used to uncover weaknesses. Manual checks mimic real-world hacker behavior, providing deeper insights.

3. Risk Assessment and Prioritization

After vulnerabilities are detected, each issue is prioritized based on severity — high, medium, or low risk. This helps businesses focus on the critical threats first.

4. Actionable Reporting

Businesses receive a detailed security report outlining every vulnerability, how it can be exploited, and recommended steps to fix it.

5. Retesting After Fixes

Once improvements are made, retesting ensures every issue is fully resolved.

Benefits of Comprehensive Cloud Pentest Services

✔ Improved Security Posture

Pentesting strengthens your defenses by identifying potential entry points.

✔ Protection Against Data Breaches

By closing security gaps, you protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.

✔ Reduced Operational Downtime

Attack prevention means fewer system failures and smoother operations.

✔ Better Cloud Configuration

Pentesting helps correct misconfigurations — a common cause of cloud attacks.

✔ Peace of Mind

Knowing your cloud is tested by professionals gives confidence and long-term protection.

Why Choose Opsio Cloud for Pentest Services?

Opsio Cloud brings more than experience — it brings dedication to secure cloud architecture. Their pentest experts work closely with clients to deliver:

  • Customized cloud pentesting solutions
  • Real-time vulnerability monitoring
  • Actionable and transparent security reporting
  • Round-the-clock support
  • Scalable services for small to large enterprises

Whether you’re migrating, expanding, or simply maintaining your cloud, Opsio Cloud ensures every layer of your infrastructure is tested and secure.

Conclusion

Cloud security isn’t optional anymore — it’s a necessity. With growing cyber threats, businesses must stay proactive by identifying and fixing vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them. Using pentest cloud services is a reliable way to strengthen your cloud infrastructure.

And with a trusted partner like Opsio Cloud, you gain expert protection backed by assured experience, helping your business stay secure, resilient, and future-ready.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, we make no representations or warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the cloud security services or pentesting information discussed. Any actions you take based on this information are at your own risk. We recommend consulting with a professional for personalized advice regarding your cloud security needs.

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