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CEP urges voters to turn out to elect new Senators on Sunday

CEP urges voters to turn out to elect new Senators on Sunday

The Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has called on voters to exercise their franchise on Sunday in the second round of legislative elections to be held in Haiti.

CEP executive director, Uder Antoine, says the January 29 poll will be for the election of the Boards of Directors of the Communal Sections (CASEC), the Administration of the Communal Sections (ASEC), the city delegates as well as for the a third of the Senate.

He also reminded voters, political parties, political groups and candidates that they should ensure they are aware of the polling station where they will be required to cast ballots and that the information could be obtained from the Call Center that operates daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm (local time).

The CEP did not disclose the number of candidates contesting Sunday’s elections nor the number of voters, but had earlier indicated that campaigning will end on Friday.

On Monday, President Jocelerme Privert, accompanied by Prime Minister Enex Jean-Charles, met with the various regional and international stakeholders ahead of the poll carded for Sunday.

The meeting that was also attended by the head of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH)  Sandra Honoré, and the Director General of the National Police of Haiti (PNH),  Michel-Ange Gédéon “focused on electoral observation, security, protection of election materials, and funding.

National Weekly January 26, 2017

Over 50? You’re at Increased Risk for Shingles

Over 50? You’re at Increased Risk for Shingles

A few years ago, a Harris Interactive-sponsored poll* found that Americans consider 50 to be the “perfect age” to live forever in good health. For many, the half­-century mark can be a time when experience and opportunity balance perfectly — as told by the saying “50 is the new 30.” At 50 there may be more time to spend on your hobbies or other activities that interest you.

At 50, the last thing anyone would want is to be blindsided by illness. Yet risks of certain medical conditions increase with age. For example, shingles is a condition caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox — a virus that 98 percent of adults have had according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even after recovery from chickenpox, the virus never leaves the body. At some point later in life, it can unexpectedly reactivate and emerge as shingles — a painful blistering rash that can last for 30 days.

When Edwin DePeiza discovered he had shingles, he learned the meaning of the adage: “You don’t miss something until it’s gone.” DePeiza, who is in his 60s and resides in Massachusetts, first noticed a burning sensation on his torso. By the time he saw his doctor, a rash had developed. Upon seeing the rash, his doctor quickly diagnosed it as shingles.

DePeiza, a passionate guitar player, witnessed how shingles can interrupt the moments that matter in life. His guitar playing had taken him all over the world, but the intense pain of shingles forced him to put his passion on hold.

“The things I love to do most I couldn’t do, like playing in the band and spending time with [my wife] Marylou,” DePeiza recalls. “The sensation of having shingles for me was like being scalded by hot water, [or] having hot cereal spill on you. I have never experienced that kind of pain or burning sensation.”

According to the CDC, one in three people will get shingles in their lifetime, and every year, about 1 million cases are diagnosed in the United States. Adults aged 50 and older are especially at risk for shingles, as the risk increases with age due to naturally declining immune systems. There is no way to tell who will get shingles, nor how severe the case will be.

Shingles most commonly surfaces on a single side of the torso, but it can appear anywhere on the body — even the face. For most people, after the shingles rash and blisters heal, the pain and itch subside — though some people may experience permanent scarring even after the rash heals. In some cases, shingles can cause complications like postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a long-­term nerve pain that can last for months or even years after the blisters heal and the rash disappears.

Speaking with a healthcare professional to understand one’s personal risk for shingles is important. Learn more about Edwin’s shingles experience, and talk to your doctor or pharmacist about a vaccine that can help prevent shingles. For more information go to www.ShinglesInfo.com.

This Day in History: Haiti’s President Oreste abdicates during revolt

On this day in Caribbean history: January 27, 1914 Haiti’s President Oreste abdicates during a revolt, and US Marines land in the nation to preserve order.
Michel Oreste Lafontant served as president of Haiti from May 1913 to January 1914. He was a reformist toppled by forces loyal to landowner elites such as his successor Oreste Zamor. He died in exile in New York City on 28 October 1918.

Michel placed great value on education during his administration. He held several positions in the Haitian government prior to his term as president. He served as asenator when he was elected president of Haiti .

He was known to be part of all the debates that brought about satisfactory changes to the nation. Therefore, the National Assembly appointed him as the new president of Haiti, following the untimely death of President Cincinnatus Leconte .

The December of maypole of 1913 , Michel was officially elected president of Haiti for seven years.

Michel Oreste believed strongly in unity and always involved Haitian officials in the affairs of the country. He became the first president to involve Haitian officials in organizing and planning the nation’s progress. Michel and his government officials set aside $ 350,000 to rebuild the destroyed National Palace . The people who were given this money, fled with him without a trace. When asked about the money, those involved promised to return it within a few months. Michel did not rest until recovering.

The government of Michel had to face the panic that caused the burglars , robbers or peasants in the northern mountains along the porous Dominican border, who were recruited by political rival factions, under the promises of money, to be paid After a triumphant revolution. This caused that all the development achieved by Michel was forgotten and the government officials began to blame him for this situation.

These officers rebelled against Michel Oreste and forced him to retreat and disappear. Michel retired on January 27. Lost funds were recovered and the reconstruction of the palace were made between 1914 and 1920.

OECS welcomes kidney transplant operation in Antigua and Barbuda

OECS welcomes kidney transplant operation in Antigua and Barbuda

The St. Lucia-based Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has congratulated Antigua and Barbuda following the first kidney transplant operation to be done in the sub-region.

“This operation had ushered in a new era of health care proficiency within the region driven by a whole of government approach in collaboration with local health authorities and regional health coordinating groups including the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA)” said OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules.

He said the OECS Commission supports the call for a seamless regional organ donor registry in the wake of the operation and would work closely with all stakeholders to formulate a viable proposal.

“The rise in chronic non-communicable diseases in the OECS such as diabetes, cancer and kidney disease require we work holistically across all strata of government and employ new and innovative ways of addressing these health challenges given the fiscal and other resource constraints of member states.

“The OECS Commission’s Health Unit is working closely with Chief Medical Officers and other stakeholders to further strengthen our associations with our global health development partners and to support proposals for centers of specialized medical care excellence in each OECS member state”,’ Jules said, adding that “this would also include formalising the call by the OECS Health Policy Forum for establishing a national and regional organ donor database, because as we know in the case of kidney disease, a transplant is significantly cheaper and less traumatic than keeping someone on haemodialysis”.

The eight-hour procedure was performed by a 14-member team consisting of four surgeons, two anaesthetists and eight specialist nurses on January 16.

Haitian Jack returns

Haitian Jack returns

One of the most infamous names of Hip-Hop lore, Haitian Jack, is to return in Benny Boom’s production of an eight-part  miniseries about the man born Jacques Agnant. Director Benny Boom of All Eyez On Me, writer Alan Wenkus from Straight Outta Compton, and Ted Field the Radar Pictures and Interscope Records co-founder, have teamed to create the series with Haitian Jack himself is serving as a technical advisor on the project.

A release from the group describes the miniseries as exploring “Haitian Jack’s journey as an immigrant from Haiti thrust into the mean streets of Brooklyn at the height of the New York crack epidemic. As he transitions from private schools to becoming a feared stick-up artist targeting drug dealers, Jack finds himself in the cutthroat music business during the most controversial period in hip-hop history.

Jack gained his entry in the Hip-Hop business via Wyclef Jean, who he is related to, before meeting Tupac and eventually becoming acquaintances with the likes of the Notorious B.I.G. and Madonna. “Haitian Jack’s story is extraordinary and the opportunity to explore his life through a television series is incredible. Crime, drugs violence and music as told through his experiences will be a groundbreaking moment for television,” said Benny Boom.

Haiti Carnival set for February

Haiti Carnival set for February

Over the weekend, President-elect Jovenel Moïse accompanied by the former President, Michel Martelly, were in the city of Les Cayes to support the candidate senator of the South, François Sildor. During the gathering, Jovenel Moïse announced that the city of Les Cayes will host the 2017 National Carnival on February 26th, 27th and 28th, just as Michel Martelly had decided during his first year in office.

Posted on his Facebook page Jovenel Moïse wrote “The 2017 Carnival is going to take place in the city of Les Cayes so that we encourage the economic movement in the department after the passage of Hurricane Matthew. All walking bands who want to participate in the carnival contest, we encourage them to register early.”

 

Fears grow as ‘gentrification’ nears

Fears grow as ‘gentrification’ nears

Zillow has released its study of the “Hottest Housing Markets for 2017” breaking down the five housing markets in Miami-Dade and Fort-Lauderdale metro areas expected to gain the most value in 2017. According to their report, Little Haiti is expected to outgrow every other neighborhood from Homestead to Fort Lauderdale with a projected 4.6 percent increase in property values. According to Trulia.com, the median home sale price in Little Haiti at the moment is $180,000, which is slightly down from last year.

The 441 corridor in Miami’s Liberty City, among others round out the top five. Given Zillow’s incoming forecast and the recent development proposed for the Wynwood area, 2017 is expected to be the year Little Haiti’s anti-gentrification activists lose their battle against the slew of wealthy developers.

In November, developer Tony Cho announced plans to turn his newly opened music venue Magic City Studios into a block-sized “innovation district,” which will turn 45,000 square feet of space on NE Second Avenue between 60th and 64th Streets into restaurants, shops, and music venue.

SPV Realty, the New York-based company that owns the Design Place apartment complex on 50th Street, has filed plans to replace it with a complex featuring 2,798 apartments, 418 hotel rooms, 283,798 square feet of retail space, 97,103 square feet of office space, and more than 4,600 parking spaces in an area just south of Churchill’s Pub and Sweat Records on NE Second Avenue. Plans show the complex to include towers as tall as 28 stories.

After protesters showed up to Miami’s Urban Development Review Board’s last meeting in December, the board delayed voting on the project. The project will come up for a vote again this month.

CASA Masters League kicks off Saturday

CASA Masters League kicks off Saturday

Caribbean Americas Soccer Association (CASA) set to kick off its Annual Soccer Masters League Saturday with two matches at 4:30 p.m. On the West field will be the Oldtymers FC versus the South Florida Kickers. On the East field will be Lions Master taking on the Attackers FC. This promises to be another exciting season which will feature teams vying for the 2017 CASA Super and Masters League titles. In addition to soccer, come see Netball Youth Sports Association – NYSA playing Netball at its very best.

Small Business Workshops coming up

business

In-Person Events

Development Services Business Workshop/Webinar Series

Tuesday, January 31, 9:30 A.M. – 3:30 P.M., Miami Gardens

The City of Miami Gardens will host a “Development Services Business Workshop/ Webinar” series designed to help entrepreneurs start or grow their businesses. Join the U.S Small Business Administration, Beacon Council, Neighborhood Lending Partners, Accion, Partners for Self-Employment as they present the “Access to Capital: Financing Your Small Business Workshop” from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. This is a free workshop. To attend, you can register by email at taxcreditsworkshop@miamigardens-fl.gov. For a complete list of all scheduled workshops and available webinars, you can contact the City of Miami Gardens Department of Development Services at (305) 622-8000. This event will be conducted by the City of Miami Gardens.

Fort Lauderdale, Setting Prices in Your Business 

Tuesday, January 31, 5:30 P.M. – 8:30 P.M.,

Too often owners and managers treat pricing as a tactical marketing challenge or worse an accountant’s financial problem. In reality it is a key business decision that affects your ability to grow and be successful. It affects profit, losses and survival more quickly than any other strategic decision. $32 in advance, $42 at the door. Registration is required. This workshop will be conducted by the Broward SCORE Chapter.

West Palm Beach, Writing a Winning Business Plan

Wednesday, February 1, 5:30 P.M. – 8:30 P.M.,

A step-by-step workshop that arms participants with the fundamentals on writing an effective and winning business plan, perhaps the most important thing you can do to help understand your business. The workshop is interactive, and each participant will perform a number of exercises that will assist in developing their own winning business plan. $30 in advance, $50 at the door. Registration is required. This workshop will be conducted by the Palm Beach SCORE.

Fort Lauderdale, Learn the Basics of Non Profit Fundraising

Wednesday, February 1, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.,

Lack of funding is the major cause why so many amazing initiatives don’t even take off, or get to the next level of impact.  Most nonprofits, as well as many socially conscious businesses, individuals and others fall prey to limiting paradigms that curtail programs that have the potential of empowering thousands, and even millions. $32 in advance, $42 at the door. Registration is required. This workshop will be conducted by the Broward SCORE Chapter.

Fort Lauderdale, Legal & Tax Implications When Setting Up Your Business in Florida

Wednesday, February 1, 2017, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.,

Many new business owners do not spend enough time & planning to ensure that they choose the right legal entity when formally setting up their business. They push off legal and tax issues, and see them as boring and confusing. When a business owner understands legal and tax issues that affect his or her business, however, he or she may become more empowered to discover the paths to success in business. $32 in advance, $42 at the door. Registration is required. This workshop will be conducted by the Broward SCORE Chapter.

Fort Lauderdale, Champagne & Chocolate Speed Networking

Thursday, February 2, 2017, 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.,

Bring your business cards, a firm handshake, your best smile, an upcoming event to share & kind words – come prepared to enjoy SPEED NETWORKING!  The event is free, register at: www.FLWBC.org – Events Tab. For more information, call Gail-Lee at 561-265-3790 – ext. 114. This workshop will be conducted by the Florida Women’s Business Center.

Bodies of Haitians wash ashore in TCI

Bodies of Haitians wash ashore in TCI

Search and rescue teams are resuming the search for persons, presumed to be Haitians on Wednesday, after 10 bodies were found in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday.

A spokesman for the Turks and Caicos Police Force, Kevin Clarke, said that at least five of the bodies had washed ashore early Tuesday after law enforcement authorities were alerted “to people running in the bushes on the northwest point”.

We know there are survivors, but none has been captured by the police,” Clarke added.
A small fishing boat was found capsized along the beach and Clarke said the police have not yet confirmed whether it was the boat on which the migrants travelled.

“It’s a very small boat (and) we still don’t know how many persons came.”
Police said the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the illegal migrants are not yet clear, but the waters off the island’s northwest point can be treacherous especially during bad weather as had been the case on Tuesday.

Lindy Delapenha, dead at 89

Lindy Delapenha, dead at 89

One of Jamaica’s legendary sports broadcasters, Lindy Delapenha, is dead.

Lindy died Wednesday morning at age 89.

Born Lloyd Lindberg Delapenha, “Lindy” served with the British armed forces in the Middle East following World War II and while there he was spotted by scouts playing football and became the first Jamaican to play professional football in England, where he became a legend with Middlesborough, having started his professional career with Portsmouth.

Soon after returning home to Jamaica, he became Director of Sports at the now defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) where he remained for 30 years.

The Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Women with early cervical cancers and pre-cancers usually have no symptoms. Symptoms often do not begin until a pre-cancer becomes a true invasive cancer and grows into nearby tissue. When this happens, the most common symptoms are: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding after sex (vaginal intercourse), bleeding after menopause, bleeding and spotting between periods, and having longer or heavier (menstrual) periods than usual. Bleeding after douching, or after a pelvic exam is a common symptom of cervical cancer but not pre-cancer. An unusual discharge from the vagina − the discharge may contain some blood and may occur between your periods or after menopause. Pain during sex (vaginal intercourse). These signs and symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. For example, an infection can cause pain or bleeding. Still, if you have any of these problems, you should see your health care professional right away − even if you have been getting regular Pap tests. If it is an infection, it will need to be treated. If it is cancer, ignoring symptoms might allow it to progress to a more advanced stage and lower your chance for effective treatment. Even better, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Be screened regularly. Suggested treatment for cervical cancers  General treatment information The options for treating each patient with cervical cancer depend on the stage of disease to determine its size, how far it has grown into the cervix, and how far it has spread. After establishing the stage of the cancer, treatment options will be recommended by your medical team. Patients must make sure they understand these options.  Apart from the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis, other factors influencing your treatment option includes your age,  general health, individual circumstances, and preferences. Be sure  you understand all the risks and side effects of the various treatments , including the effects on your sex life and the ability to have children, before making a decision. Many specialists, including gynecologists and radiologists,  nurse practitioners, nurses, psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation specialists, and other health professionals may be involved in your treatment and care.

Common types of treatments for cervical cancer include: Surgery Radiation Therapy Chemotherapy Often a combination of treatments is used. It is recommended that patients seek a second opinion pertaining to the treatment plan. This can provide more information and help build your confidence about choosing a treatment plan.  It is important to discuss all of your treatment options, including their goals and possible side effects, with your doctors to help make the decision that best fits your needs. It’s also very important to ask questions if there is anything you’re not sure about.

North Miami officials sign Sister-City agreement with Haiti

Good Afternoon and welcome. Today is Thursday, January 26. We’re taking a look at some of the top stories that are making the news across your Caribbean-American community here in South Florida… I’m Jahlisa Harvey, and you’re watching CNW90.

The coverage today is brought to you by Grace Soups: Spice up your kitchen with Grace Soups today.  Genuine Caribbean taste enjoyed worldwide!

Here are today’s top stories:

North Miami officials including councilman Alix Desulme, signed a Sister-City agreement with Haiti committing both cities to identify activities that can generate new initiatives to further nurture economic, social, and cultural relationships. The signing took place in City of Arcahaie and is the second Sister City agreement signed by the City of North Miami since 2008.

According to a study done by Passportindex.org, Barbados has the most powerful passport in the Caribbean and the 50th most powerful in the entire world. Barbados’ passport allows its holders to travel to 132 countries without having to get a visa before departure and is followed by The Bahamas, which allows visa-free travel to 129 countries, and Antigua and Barbuda which allows visa-free travel to 124 countries.

St. Lucia is bidding farewell to their 25-year-old festival known for bringing visitors from all around the world. Prime Minister Allan Chastanet announced that the festival has been cancelled because of the $14 million price tag associated with the preparation and execution of the event. However, the event is set to be replaced by a Summer Festival including a series of events, music, food and an expanded St Lucia Carnival.

In Sports:

In the CASA Super League… Last night the South Florida Soccer lost against the Fort Lauderdale Blazers 3-0 at the Lauderhill Sports Park. The next match will be between team Haiti and Coral Springs FC at 6:15 Saturday evening.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

The Department of Agriculture has reportedly lifted an executive order that called for scientists and employees of its research arm not to release any of its work to the public. After a report that the agency had told staff to stop releasing any “news releases, photos, fact sheets, and social media content,” BuzzFeed reported that another memo was sent from a top official that the original order was rescinded.

For tomorrows weather forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a High of 81 and a low of 62. Scattered shower in Miami-Dade, with a high of 79 and a low of 55 For more information on these and other stories, visit us online at Caribbean nationalweekly.com. Make Sure to pick up your copy of the National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean American outlet.

Today’s coverage was brought to you by Grace Soups: Spice up your kitchen with Grace Soups today.  Genuine Caribbean taste enjoyed worldwide!b”

This has been CNW90, I’m Jahlisa Harvey

 

This Day in History: Bessie Coleman was born

On this day in history, January 26, 1892, Bessie Coleman, a renowned aviator who was the first African-American woman to become a pilot and to hold an international pilot’s license, was born.

When she turned 18, Coleman took her savings and enrolled in the Oklahoma Colored Agricultural and Normal University (now called Langston University). She completed one term before her money ran out, and returned home.

In 1915 she moved to Chicago and worked as a manicurist, listening to stories from pilots who had flown in World War I. Determined to become a pilot, she was encouraged by Robert S. Abbott, founder and publisher of the Chicago Defender to study aviation abroad. Coleman received financial backing from a banker and the Defender. She eventually traveled to Paris and became the first African-American woman to earn an international aviation license and also the first in the world to earn an aviation pilot’s license.

Later she traveled to the Netherlands and Germany to get additional training before returning to the United States, where she did stunt flying and was billed as “the world’s greatest woman flier.”  Coleman developed a reputation as a skilled and daring pilot, who would stop at nothing to complete a difficult stunt. She died in 1926 after an airplane malfunction caused her aircraft to crash at the age of 34.

PNM retains control of Tobago House of Assembly

PNM retains control of Tobago House of Assembly

The ruling People’s National Movement (PNM) retained control of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) winning 10 of the 12 seats in Monday’s elections.

According to the preliminary results, the newly formed Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) led by the president of the Public Service Association (PSA), Watson Duke, won the other two seats.

Prime Minister and PNM leader Dr. Keith Rowley said he was pleased with the outcome of the results, telling supporters, it was “a “handsome victory by any standard.

“We are extremely happy,” Rowley said of the victory given that the PNM had controlled all 12 seats in the last THA.

He said the victory, which provides the PNM with a fifth consecutive hold on the THA “should say a lot of the PNM’s success in Tobago and is something to be very proud of”.

“Anybody would know that the longer you are in office, the harder it is to win,” he said.

The PNM entered the election under a new leader in Kelvin Charles, who replaced outgoing THA Chief secretary Orville London.  Charles won 1,050 votes to take the Black Rock/Whim/ Spring Garden seat, by a clear-cut margin.

Charles is expected to be sworn in as the new THA Chief Secretary on Thursday.

Martinique to host CFU Men’s Caribbean Cup

Martinique to host CFU Men’s Caribbean Cup

The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) announced Wednesday that Martinique will host the finals of the 2016/2017 Scotiabank CFU Men’s Caribbean Cup scheduled for June 22 to 25. CFU officials also conducted a draw for the semifinals which landed Jamaica-French Guiana and Curacao- Martinique paired to play each other Both on June 22.

Following those matches, losers from the semifinals will meet to vie for third place, followed by the final. Each of the final-four sides topped their third-round groups in a competition that started in March 2016, earning them each a ticket to the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup, which will be played July 7 to the 26 in the U.S. Haiti, the winner of the Caribbean Cup fifth-place playoff, can still secure a place in the biennial CONCACAF event, but it must prevail over Nicaragua in a two-legged qualifying playoff.

Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce announces ‘Women of Distinction’ honorees

Nine Influential Women Announced

This years theme for the 4th annual awards breakfast “Rise Up!”, will take place on March 3. During an exclusive VIP reception on January 19th, the Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC), revealed their 2017 honorees for the 4th Annual Women of Distinction (WOD) Awards Breakfast, powered by the Florida Panthers. After being nominated in November, nine of Broward County’s most influential women have been selected. The women will be honored on March 3rd, from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the BB&T Center.

The Annual WOD awards breakfast is the hallmark event produced by the Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce to honor powerful women of Broward County. Attended by the highest esteemed business owners, professionals, public officials, tastemakers and movers and shakers, this three-time sold out event continues to attract a diverse and influential audience. In the past three years, the WOD award has honored numerous of women in Broward County who are at the peak of their profession and make significant contributions to improving the quality of life in Broward County. Themed “Rise Up!” this year, the LRCC has selected another group of powerful women who exhibit qualities of strength, excellence, and empowerment.

Melissa P. Dunn, MBA – President of the Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce, is ecstatic about this year’s honorees. “Our Women of Distinction Honorees represent thousands of women who work hard and serve others while balancing family and career.  By honoring them, we are honoring girls who aspire to become them.  We are affirming that women can lead and succeed.”

Meet the 2017 Women of Distinction honorees:

  • Veda Coleman-Wright – Public Information Office Director, Broward Sheriff’s Office
  • Dr. Traci Lynn –  CEO, Traci Lynn Jewelry
  • Nerissa Street –  Founder, Be Your Own Answer
  • Dee Thompson – CEO, Dee Thompson Speaks
  • Karen Pandy-Cherry – President, Refresh Live Foundation
  • Sandra Carey – Deputy Consul General, The Bahamas
  • Donna Borland – General Manager, VITAS Healthcare
  • Sherry Friedlander-Olsen – Founder, A Child is Missing, Inc.
  • Ilene Lieberman – First Female Strong Mayor in Broward County

The Miss Lou Reading Festival to host 2- day event!

miss lou

The Miss Lou Reading Festival to host 2- day event!

On Friday, February 3rd, the Louise Bennett-Coverlet Reading Festival will begin a two-day event commemorating the 10th annual celebration of the legacy of Jamaica’s former cultural Ambassador, the late Hon. Louise Bennett Coverley, OM, OJ, MBE.  The event begins on Friday, February 3rd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.,and Saturday, February 4th from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Broward College Performing Cultural Arts Theater in Pembroke Pines.

The Festival which is free to the public and is presented by the Consul General of Jamaica, is jointly coordinated by Broward College, the Friends of the South Regional Broward Library and the Jamaican Folk Revue, Inc.

This year, the two-day celebration is titled “Is Anansi Meck It – Jack Mandora Mi Noh Choose None” and traditionally forms part of the Library’s activities commemorating Black History month. The smorgasbord of events, begins with a panel discussion at 6:00 p.m. on Friday evening February 3, themed “Is Anansi Meck It – Jack Mandora  Me Noh Choose None”, followed by  a star-studded Cultural Extravaganza on Saturday February 4, starting at 2 p.m.

“This is a significant anniversary, celebrating a decade of honoring Jamaica’s beloved Miss Lou, (as she was affectionately called), and will include two exciting days of ‘Boo-noo-noo-noos’  events” according to Norma Darby, Director Emerita of the Jamaican Folk Revue, and founder of the annual Reading Festival.

Headlining the evening’s customary program of rich cultural performances, will be some of Jamaica’s renowned proponents of the island’s unique cultural heritage including writer, educator and performing artist, Owen “Blakka” Ellis; actor, media personality and UWI Lecturer Fae Ellington C.D; and  founder of  the Storytelling Foundation of Jamaica- Amina Blackwood-Meeks.  Several local performing artists sharing in the cultural presentation are the Tallawah Mento Band, the Reggae violin strings of the Sons of Mystro, the Sierra Norwood Calvary Children’s Cultural Ensemble, the Jamaican Folk Revue, the Carimer Culltural Group, Deja Vu Theatre Group and others who had worked closely with, and were influenced by, Miss Lou.

Louise Bennett-Coverley’s work continues to influence many individuals immensely, through her volumes of lasting and immeasurable contributions to Jamaica’s cultural development. Proceeds from Fundraisers & your Tax-deductible donations, continue to sustain the Louise Bennett-Coverley Memorial Scholarships, educate and bring a high level of rich cultural awareness and entertainment, to South Florida’s Community.

All donations are Tax deductible and will be greatly appreciated.

Art, made for and by everyone!

Art, made for and by everyone!

United Arts of Central Florida is spreading the word to help the Caribbean Community and others, to gain access to micro-grants of $2,500 and larger grants of up to $25,000 or more – to finance and promote our cultural heritage. Join them for ‘Arts All’ day festival ready to take place on Saturday, February 4 at Loch Haven Cultural Park in Orlando from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This inclusive and accessible family friendly event will bring together all members of the community to experience a day showcasing the diverse local artist and arts organizations that call central Florida home. United Arts of Central Florida is coordinating more than 50 arts and cultural organizations to provide 45-minute-long vignettes throughout multiple indoor and outdoor theaters and venues. Other activities include informal “pop up” experience, food trucks, and interactive digital media exhibit, not to forget the on-site babysitting services and hands on arts activities for all ages. ‘Arts for All’ day festival will also serve as a fundraiser for United Arts of Central Florida which provides funding for local arts organizations and arts education.

Bring the family, friends, and neighbors out and enjoy a day that will bring ALL central Floridians together in celebration of arts and culture in our community! Everyone is invited because art is made for and by everyone!

 

Did the Women Marches have desired impact?

Did the Women Marches have desired impact?

Myrna Lloyd, Bajan- American, one of several Caribbean-Americans that participated in last Saturday’s Women March on Washington, endorsed media reports that the event was “an overwhelming success, as far as the crowd size mattered,” but expressed concern with the event’s impact.

“To call the event a march is a misnomer,” Lloyd said. “The crowd of possibly over 500,000 people, assembled on the assigned 1.2 mile route for what should have been the march, was so huge,  that the it could only move three or four feet forward and backward. So, what should have been a march was really a gigantic, several hours long rally, featuring very passionate speakers.”

Lloyd expressed concern whether the thousands of women, and men, that rallied in Washington, and other US cities, including Miami, last Saturday, had “a meaningful impact” on the Trump administration regarding the issues the women rallied for.  “Women marched for issues like equal pay, family leave, domestic violence, for pro-abortion choices and securing Planned Parenthood and women clinics. However, after this mass showing of women, one of the first actions Trump took on Monday was to sign an anti-abortion executive order. This is very frustrating, like a slap in the face. Now, women need to ensure last week’s rally wasn’t just a one-off event for show. For women, and other Americans to ensure the rights that constitutionally belong to them are implemented, there have to be several more rallies, more often. We don’t have to travel to Washington DC to rally. People can effectively rally in the cities where they live, including right here in South Florida.”

It has been estimated that some 10,000 men, women, and children, turned out for the Women Rally of South Florida at the Bayfront Park Amphitheater on Saturday afternoon. Among the Caribbean-Americans at this rally, Veronica Lindsay, 32, a Miami librarian, who said the Miami rally was more directly “opposed to Trump’s inauguration than for women rights. I saw more ant-trump signs and posters, than posters rallying for women rights.”

However, another Caribbean American, Megan Rochester, 30, a nurse at Jackson South Hospital, said “The rally may have seemed more anti-Trump, but several of the issues highlighted were issues Trump opposes, for which we were rallying to be considered by his administration. These issues affect South Floridians, and include healthcare rights, immigrant rights, student’s right, voter’s rights, worker’s rights, environmental rights, and, of course, women rights.”

The anti-abortion executive order Trump signed bans US government funding to international non-government organizations that offer a wide range of family planning and reproductive health options’ if these include supporting abortion.

Dr. Grichen Phillipe, doctor at a North Miami woman’s clinic, says. “While this order doesn’t ban abortion in the US, or defunds Planned Parenthood, it does signal that the Trump administration could, as was hinted during the election campaign, support defunding Planned Parenthood, and make it difficult for women to have the right to choose.”

 

Bolt stripped of Gold Medal

Good Afternoon and welcome. Today is Wednesday January 25. We’re taking a look at some of the top stories that are making the news across your Caribbean-American community here in South Florida… I’m Jahlisa Harvey, and you’re watching CNW90.
The coverage today is brought to you by Grace Soups: Spice up your kitchen with Grace Soups today.  Genuine Caribbean taste enjoyed worldwide!
Here are today’s top stories:
Today President Trump is expected to sign an executive order to begin paying for a wall on the U.S. Mexican border. Trump tweeted out last night that he has a big day panned and quote “among many other things, we will build the wall.”
Trinidad and Tobago beverage manufacturer SMJ, the largest manufacturer of non-alcoholic drinks in the English speaking Caribbean, is making it easier for consumers to get one of the company’s flagship the sodas, Chubby by making it available for purchase online at Amazon.com.
Reggae artist, Jemere Morgan, the son of Morgan Heritage member Gramps Morgan, made his 2017 debut on the Billboard Reggae album chart with his album Transition entering at number four and making a jump to number 2. Transition, released on January 6 contains 17 tracks with collaborations with J Boog, Ghanaian dancehall artist Soundbwoy and his father, Gramps, who is featured on the tracks Try Jah Love and Celebrate Life.
In Sports:
President of the Caribbean Football Union, Gordon Derrick has taken the first step in moving to break from CONCACAF. Derrick says that since electing Canadian Soccer Association president Montagliani as head of the organization the CFU has seen the majority of funding and grants heavily cut and been allowed no major input in CONCACAF’s decision making process.
Now, here’s what’s trending: 
Usain Bolt has been stripped of his 2008 Olympics relay gold medal as a result of his teammate Nesta Carter testing positive for doping.
For tomorrows weather forecast:
Sunny in Broward County with a High of 81 and a low of 62. Partly Cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 84 and a low of 64. For more information on these and other stories, visit us online at Caribbean nationalweekly.com. Make Sure to pick up your copy of the National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean American outlet.
Today’s coverage was brought to you by Grace Soups: Spice up your kitchen with Grace Soups today.  Genuine Caribbean taste enjoyed worldwide!”
This has been CNW90, I’m Jahlisa Harvey

Bolt to lose Olympic relay medal

Bolt to lose Olympic relay medal

Usain Bolt has been stripped of his 2008 olympic relay gold medal as a result of his teammate Nesta Carter testing positive for doping.

Carter was part of the Jamaican quartet that won the 4x100m in Beijing in 2008.

His was one of 454 selected doping samples retested by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) last year, and has been found to contain the banned stimulant methylhexaneamine.

This Day in History: Pope John Paul II visits The Bahamas

On this day in Caribbean history, January 25, 1979, Pope John Paul II starts his first official papal visits outside Italy to The Bahamas, Dominican Republic and Mexico.

During his reign, Pope John Paul II (“The Pilgrim Pope”) made 104 foreign trips, more than all previous popes combined. In total he logged more than 725,000 miles. He consistently attracted large crowds on his travels, some among the largest ever assembled. While some of his trips, such as to the United States and the Israel, were to places previously visited by Paul VI, the first pope to travel widely, many others were to countries that no pope had ever previously visited.

Life of T&T President threatened

Life of  T&T President threatened

Trinidad and Tobago’s National Security Minister Edmund Dillon says death threats have been made on the life of President Anthony Carmona.

Dillon confirmed the report and said the security agencies were continuing to monitor the situation.

“And we continue to ensure the security of the head of state. The Defence Force and Special Branch have been informed accordingly – through the Police Commissioner and Chief of Defence Staff – and are taking the necessary action,” Dillon told the Trinidad Guardian newspaper.

The Guardian said the anonymous death threat was received at the Police Command Centre on Sunday with the male caller  threatening not only the head of state but “all ah dem”.

The caller said he would be “waiting by the Savannah to offload shots for the President” threatening also to bomb police stations.

So far senior police officials have met with the President.

The Office of the President confirmed that information had been received from the police about a threat being made on the President’s life very recently.

Carmona came to office in 2013 for a five-year term.

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