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St Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival cancelled, indefinitely

St Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival cancelled, indefinitely

The Eastern Caribbean island is calling it quits with 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.

Chastanet said that the cost for the two-week affair was too much. Never fear, the event is set to be replaced by a Summer Festival including a series of events that will include music, food and art activities. The Summer shin-dig will begin in May with a Jazz Week and feature an expanded St Lucia Carnival.

Caribbean musicians lead the way at the 2017 BRIT Awards

Caribbean musicians lead the way at the 2017 BRIT Awards

Jumping from collecting a handful of nominations for the 2017 Grammy Awards and the fourth annual iHeart Radio Music Awards, Bajan singer Rihanna and Jamaica’s dancehall icon Sean Paul are leading the way as Caribbean artist collectively sweeping the upcoming BRIT Awards with several nods. Rihanna was nominated in the International Female Solo Artist category with fellow nominees including the ever popular Beyoncé and her younger sister Solange. Rihanna also gained recognition for her collaboration with Calvin Harris on the 2016 summer hit ‘This Is What You Came For’ in both the Best British Single and British Artist Video of the Year categories.

Jamaica’s Sean Paul was recognized for his collaboration with Clean Bandit and Anne-Marie on ‘Rockabye’ in both the British Single and Video of the Year categories. Cheap Thrills, which he collaborated on with Sia for a chart topper also received a nod for his collaboration with Little Mix on ‘Hair’ in the Video of the Year category. The Brit Awards are schedules for to be broadcast live on February 22.

IRS warns of serious scams as 2017 tax season begins

IRS warns of serious scams as 2017 tax season begins

Effective on January 23, South Florida and other tax payers commenced filing their 2016 tax returns. As the season begins, with most taxpayers anticipating significant financial refunds, the IRS is warning tax- payers of the potential for serious scams.

The scams include: 

An aggressive and sophisticated phone scam targeting taxpayers, including recent immigrants. Fake callers try to make convincing claims to be employees of the IRS, but are not. The scammers use fake names and bogus IRS identification badge numbers, and usually alter their caller ID to make it look like the IRS is calling.

Victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer. If the victim refuses to cooperate, they are then threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license. In many cases, the caller becomes hostile and insulting. Or, victims may be told they have a refund due to try to trick them into sharing private information. If the phone isn’t answered, the scammers often leave an “urgent” callback request.

The IRS cautions tax payers that the it never call to demand payment. The agency, generally, will first mail taxpayer’s a bill if they owe taxes.

The IRS also cautions scammers are posing as members of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel a volunteer board that advises the IRS on systemic issues affecting taxpayer. The agency indicates some taxpayers are receiving emails appearing to be from TAP about a tax refund. These emails are a phishing scam, where unsolicited emails which seem to come from legitimate organizations — but are really from scammers — try to trick unsuspecting victims into providing personal and financial information. Taxpayers must not respond or click the links in these e-mails. People who receive an email that appears to be from TAP regarding their  personal tax information are urged to forward it to phishing@irs.gov , indicating the email seems to be a scam.

Taxpayers should also be alerted to:

Fake emails purporting to contain an IRS tax bill related to the Affordable Care Act; telephone scammers demanding payments for non-existent taxes, such as the “Federal Student Tax;”  another email phishing scam with fake IRS reps asking taxpayers to verify “the last four digits of their social security number” by clicking on a link provided. ; and fake calls from scammers claiming they want to verify information like Social Security numbers, bank and credit card information, on tax returns they claim to have.

Gresford Simpson of the IRS ffices in Plantation, Florida also cautions taxpayers to ensure they contact known credible and experienced tax prepares to prepare their tax returns, and if in doubt about a tax preparers credibility to contact the IRS for information.

 

 

Western Union admits to laundering and fraud violations

Good Afternoon and welcome. Today is Tuesday, January 24. 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:

Western Union, one of the leading money transfer agencies across the Caribbean, has admitted to anti-money laundering and consumer fraud violations. As a result, the United States Department of Justice said Western Union which is headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, has agreed to forfeit US$586 million. Western Union will also begin enhanced compliance obligations which are to include ensuring that the company report suspicious or illegal activity by its agents or related consumer fraud reports.

In Haiti, at least two people were killed and several others injured after a truck hit several pedestrians Sunday night. Media reports said that the bus, accelerated just before the crash and that the two people were killed instantly.

The African Heritage Youth Theater is looking for new members. The drama apprenticeship program at the Cultural Arts Center for youth, is looking for children between the ages of 11-19, who are serious about learning the craft of theater. Auditions will be held February 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and require a 1 minute monologue, a resume and or bio, and a 2.75 GPA.

In Sports:

Jamaican soccer star, Wes Morgan has been selected in the 2016 CONCACAF Male Best following a memorable year on the field. Morgan became the first man in Leicester City history to lift the Premier League trophy, playing every game during the Foxes’ 2015-2016 title triumph.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Jamaica’s female bobsledders, Jasmine Fenlator and Carrie Russell created history in Lake Placid, New York late yesterday when they became the first ever female team representing the island to win a medal on the North American Cup circuit.

For tomorrows weather forecast:

Sunny in Broward County with a High of 81 and a low of 61. Mostly Sunny in Miami-Dade, with a high of 78 and a low of 66. 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

 

Barbados leads the Caribbean with most ‘powerful’ passport

Passport

The Caribbean nation of Barbados, according to a study by Passportindex.org, has the most powerful passport in the Caribbean and the 50th most powerful in the entire world.

This takes into account the number of visa-free regions and countries that a passport has access to including destinations that are completely visa-free and those that require a visa upon arrival.

Barbados’ passport, which allows its holders to travel to 132 countries without having to get a visa before departure, 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.

Ranking fourth in the Caribbean and 57th in the world is St Kitts and Nevis, followed by Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and St Vincent and the Grenadines, with world rankings of 59th, 61st and 62nd respectively. St Lucia ranked 66th in the world, followed by Grenada, Dominica and Honduras, which took the 70th, 72nd and 76th places.

Further down the list is Jamaica (100), Guyana (103) and Suriname (109).

Cuba, The Dominican Republic and Haiti finished out the list with world rankings of 128th, 149th and 150th of the 199 countries respectively.

This Day in History: President Dartiguenave addresses United States President Warren G. Harding concerning the needs of Haitians

On this day in Caribbean history, January 24, 1921, President Dartiguenave addresses United States President Warren G. Harding concerning the needs of the Haitian people. Dartiguenave was a mulatto, born on April 6, 1863.

He served as President of Haiti from 12 August 1915 to 15 May 1922 in a government set up by the United States after its military occupation began on 27 July 1915 following an uprising which resulted in the death of President Vilbrun Guillaume Sam. He died on 26 July 1926.

In 1922, the Wilson administration appoints General John H. Russell as high commissioner and Louis Borno—an admirer of Mussolini—as the new Haitian president. This event follows the dismissal of the previous Haitian president, Sudre Dartiguenave, who had refused to sign an agreement concerning the repayment of debts to the US-owned National City Bank (later to be name Citibank) which controls Haiti’s National Bank and railroad system.

Jemere Morgan transitions to #2 on the Billboard

Jemere Morgan transitions to #2 on the Billboard

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 via Dada Son Entertainment, contains 17 tracks with collaborations with Toian (Bang Bang); Agent Sasco (Neighbourhood Girls remix); J Boog (Shakers and Movers); Ghanaian dancehall artist Soundbwoy (A.C.B.) and Jo Mersa Marley (Shouldn’t Have). His father, Gramps, is featured on the tracks Try Jah Love and Celebrate Life.

The young up and comer was born in Brooklyn, New York moving to Jamaica at the age of one then again back to the United States at eight years old.

Others on the top 10 include the re-entry onto the chart, Get Ready! Live in Columbus Brett Wilson from Roots Creation. The 13-track set jumps back onto the chart, having peaked at number eight in December of last year. Pushing five spots to number 11 is Hotting Up by Iration, while the group’s acoustic set Double Up falls from 10 to 12. Also slipping off the chart from number nine to 13 is Matisyahu’s Release the Bound (EP).

Case against Patrick Powell pushed back

Case against Patrick Powell pushed back

Patrick Powell, the Jamaican businessman who was charged with the murder of Kingston College student Khajeel Mais in 2011, has had his court case pushed back with a new trial date is expected for February 16. He will return to the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court in relation to the charge of failing to turn over his licensed firearm to police investigators.

The case was rescheduled as a result of an outstanding Supreme Court transcript of evidence given by the investigating officer and a member of the Firearms Licensing Authority during the”X6″ murder trial in the Home Circuit Court.

Powell was arrested and charged for Mais’ murder but was freed of the charge last October after the prosecution offered no further evidence.

Wes Morgan selected for Best Male in the 2016 CONCACAF title

Wes Morgan selected for Best Male in the 2016 CONCACAF title

Wes Morgan has been selected in the 2016 CONCACAF Male Best XI following a memorable year for the Jamaica international team. Morgan became the first man in Leicester City history to lift the Premier League trophy, playing every game during the Foxes’ 2015/16 title triumph.
His imposing performances saw him become an ever-present at the heart of the City defence, before he took to the international stage for Jamaica in the summer at the Copa America.
Morgan was named alongside Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas, FC Porto defender Miguel Layun and former Fulham forward Bryan Ruiz.

 

Mama’s Mama knows best

Mama’s Mama knows best

The millennial mom-to-be uses an app to track her fertility and pregnancy progress, pins nursery ideas on Pinterest and researches baby gear on YouTube. She reads online advice on everything from what to eat (or not), to when to talk to a doctor about prescription prenatal vitamins and what to do with the placenta after delivering.

Never without a smartphone in hand, armed with an app for everything, always connected or “on,” millennials were born in an era of emerging technology between 1980 and 1995, and have grown up in an ever-increasing digitally-enhanced environment. Access to technology and social media has defined every aspect of her life, including the expectant millennial’s approach to pregnancy. It’s a drastically different world than when her own mother was pregnant.

But what does this over-abundance of connectivity and information mean for the digital-savvy millennial mom-to-be? Per a recent poll, for nearly 60 percent it means there is too much conflicting advice on tips for a healthy pregnancy. In the poll conducted by Exeltis, the company that produces the number one doctor recommended prescription prenatal vitamin, Vitafol, 500 millennials and 500 baby boomers were asked to reveal details on their approach to pregnancy. While sifting through all the information available today was overwhelming to expectant millennials, only 36.2 percent of baby boomer moms, whose pregnancies were “pre-Google” and social media, felt this way.

In addition, in our constantly-connected world it’s common for people to feel license to dispense unsolicited advice to expectant moms. Twice as many millennial moms report they received advice while they were pregnant that they disregarded or didn’t agree with as compared to baby boomer moms.

That’s why it’s no surprise that with so much (often conflicting) sought-out and unsolicited information and advice, 51.8 percent of millennials said they had a hard time deciding which pregnancy advice to believe.

“We have so much more information than they did years ago,” said one millennial in the study. “I feel like millennial moms have a lot more pressure placed on them to do everything ‘right.'”

Thus, despite the advances in technology that make their pregnancies different (or perhaps, more likely, because of it), millennial moms are turning to their own mothers for advice, even more than their mothers turned to the generation before them. Millennials are using the “Grandma Filter” to essentially qualify and validate information that they are receiving from other sources.

In fact, when it comes to preparing for parenting, millennials turn to their mother/mother figure more than any other resource on a variety of topics. The “Grandma Filter” is number one when it comes to emotional/family concerns, relationship advice and determining what supplies she will need to register for. And, millennial moms also turn to their mother nearly three times more often than baby boomer moms would have regarding financial concerns in preparing for a new baby.

Even though she has so many more resources at her disposal, and she still goes to her doctor, spouse/significant other and friends and other family members on many matters, the millennial’s increased reliance on her own mother has changed significantly over the years.

Still, there are some elements of pregnancy that have remained unchanged. More than half of all millennial and baby boomer mothers polled prepared for pregnancy by taking a childbirth class. More than 97 percent of millennial moms and 92 percent of boomer moms took prenatal vitamins. In addition, 80 percent of both groups recognize prescription prenatal vitamins are the right choice for any pregnant mother.

Which all indicates that regardless of when they are pregnant, moms ultimately want what is best for her baby, but deciding what that is might best be determined with a slight tweak to the adage. In fact, “Mama’s MAMA knows best.”

Why eating breakfast boosts your health

Why eating breakfast supercharges your health

Want to make 2017 the year you focus on your health? Wellness goals are admirable throughout the year, but too often well-meaning people make a common mistake that sabotages their efforts: they skip breakfast.

It’s a daily choice that millions of people shrug off as no big deal, but research proves breakfast is an important component in how you feel throughout the day. Fueling up solely on java may perk you up momentarily, but it doesn’t do the trick long-term.

Consider these five reasons why breakfast boosts your health and should not be ignored.

Awakens your metabolism

When you eat breakfast, you “break the fast” from your sleep periods and give your metabolism a wake-up call. When you sleep, your metabolism slows and you burn fewer calories while you rest. By eating a nutritious breakfast, you are sparking your internal engine so it burns calories and gives you more energy throughout the day.

Helps you focus

Hunger can make people irritable and it’s hard to focus on work when your stomach is grumbling. By eating a balanced breakfast of fat, protein and fiber, the food is processed into energy, allowing you to feel fuller longer.

Steadies the burn

When you skip breakfast, the body panics for nutrition, so come lunch you tend to overeat. This in turn overwhelms the metabolism and you end up with peaks and pits of energy throughout the day. For steady energy and efficient calorie-burning, eat a nutritious breakfast and other meals on schedule.

Encourages healthy choices

People who eat breakfast tend to make healthier choices throughout the day. According to MayoClinic.org, “People who eat breakfast tend to eat a healthier overall diet, one that is more nutritious and lower in fat. In contrast, people who skip breakfast are more likely to skip fruits and vegetables the rest of the day, too.” Try starting the day with 100-calorie Thomas’ Light Multi-grain English Muffins.

Sets a good example

When you eat breakfast, it sets a good example for your family. Plus, sitting down to a nutritious meal is a positive way to start the day together. You’re helping your kids form healthy habits that will benefit them with increased focus and energy at school, ensuring they can do their best academically.

Try this easy 5-minute recipe to start your morning. For more nutritious breakfast recipes, visit thomasbreads.com/recipes.

Greek Yogurt English Muffin

What you’ll need:

1 Thomas’ Light Multi-Grain English Muffin
Plain Greek yogurt
Sprinkle of granola
Handful of blueberries
Honey for drizzling

What you’ll do:

  1. Split and toast English muffin. Let cool slightly, then top with yogurt, granola and berries. Drizzle with honey for an added touch of sweetness.
  2. Serve with more blueberries and strawberries, if desired.

Jamaican woman tried to smuggle cocaine in beef patty box

Jamaican woman tried to smuggle cocaine in beef patty box

United States law enforcement officials have arrested Chantal Alecia Edward, a Jamaican woman at the JFK International Airport in New York, Thursday as she tried to smuggle $70,000 in cocaine in a box of beef patties.

The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency said officers intercepted Bedward on arrival on a flight from Kingston, Jamaica on Tuesday. CBP said officers escorted Bedward to a private search room, where the box of beef patties was opened, and revealing 12 duct-taped packages.

The packages tested positive for cocaine and Bedward was arrested for the importation of a controlled substance and then turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) facing prosecution by the US Attorney’s Office in the US Eastern District Court of New York.

City of Miami Gardens to Host a Black Heritage Festival

City of Miami Gardens to Host a Black Heritage Festival

Celebrate Black History Month with City of Miami Gardens, Vice Mayor Erhabor Ighodaro, and County Commissioner Barbara Jordan at the Black Heritage Festival set to be fun for the entire family.

The festivities take place Saturday, February 4 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, located at 3000 NW 199th Street in Miami Gardens.

There will be something for everyone as the celebration will feature African Fashions, live Musical Entertainment, Dancers, Face Painting, Rock Climbing, Bounce Houses, Vendors, Food Trucks and more!

Police in Broward search for violent group attacking women

Hello and welcome to CNW90.. Today Monday, January 23 and 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 your host, Jahlisa Harvey.

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:

Police in Broward County are searching for a violent group that has ambushed women with beatings and pepper spray while stealing purses and electronics this week at shopping centers in Plantation, Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach. In two cases, women were followed to their homes, where, police said, their cars were stolen. Plantation Police Detective Philip Toman says they are following up on leads. The group has two women and one or two men, the attacks have so far happened at night.

President David Granger has announced Guyana’s launch against human trafficking. Granger said the country is prosecuting traffickers, collaborating with international counter trafficking organizations and will provide a shelter and psych-social services to victims.

International performing artist, Kristine Alicia, has her sophomore album “Songs from Zion” set for its Fort Lauderdale release event at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center on February 16th at 6:30 p.m. and the digital release of the album the following day on iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube, SoundCloud, and others Global Sports brand PUMA continues to deepen its roots in Jamaican athletics after securing the signatures of seven of the island’s top athletes.

In Sports:

Global sports brand, PUMA has followed its recent signing of champion Kemar Bailey-Cole with seven MVP Track Club athletes, including Olympic silver medallist Shericka Jackson, World Championships medal winner O’Dayne Richards, Janieve Russell, Christania Williams, Julian Forte, Rusheen McDonald and Megan Simmonds. This signing further builds the relationship between the brand and Jamaica since the stepping down of Olympic record holder Usain Bolt.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Chantal Alecia Bedward, a Jamaican woman was arrested at the JFK International Airport in New York, Thursday as she tried to smuggle $70,000 in cocaine in a box of beef patties.

For tomorrows weather forecast:

Sunny in Broward County with a High of 79 and a low of 52. Sunny in Miami-Dade, with a high of 79 and a low of 56. 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: St Lucian Economist, Sir William Arthur Lewis, was born

This Day in History: St Lucian Economist, Sir William Arthur Lewis, was born

On this day in Caribbean history, January 23, 1915, William Arthur Lewis was born in St. Lucia. Sir Lewis was an economist who was celebrated for his work in the area of economic development.

In 1979, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics. He earned a bachelor of science degree in 1937 and a doctorate three years later from the London School of Economics, where he worked until 1948. When Ghana established itself as an independent nation in 1957, Lewis served as the country’s first economic adviser and assisted in establishing Ghana’s development plan.

In 1959, he was appointed vice chancellor of the University of the West Indies. In 1963, he was knighted and appointed as a professor of economics at Princeton University, where he remained until his retirement in 1983. He was also director of the Caribbean Development Bank.

Lewis died in 1991 in Barbados and was buried on the grounds of the community college in St. Lucia that was named in his honor.

Puma signs more Jamaican athletes

Puma signs more Jamaican athletes

Global sports brand, PUMA has followed its recent signing of champion Kemar Bailey-Cole with seven MVP Track Club athletes, including Olympic silver medallist Shericka Jackson, World Championship medal winner O’Dayne Richards, Janieve Russell, Christania Williams, Julian Forte, Rusheen McDonald and Megan Simmonds.

This signing further builds the relationship between the brand and Jamaica since the stepping down of Olympic record holder Usain Bolt.

“Puma continues their commitment with up and coming athletes, and its mission to be the fastest sports brand in the world by signing seven Jamaican athletes to represent them in the upcoming World Championships in London. They all have a strong possibility to make the podium in London and increase PUMA’s footprint in Jamaican athletics, which includes none other than Usain Bolt,” read a release issued by the company.

 

President Trump firm on his vow to repeal ‘Obamacare’

President Trump firm on his vow to repeal ‘Obamacare’

As a first order of business, newly sworn in President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order aimed at limiting the “burden” of the Obamacare health law that he vowed to repeal during his campaign.

During the signing in the Oval Office, Trump’s chief of staff Reince Priebus described the order as aimed at “minimizing the economic burden” of the 2010 Affordable Care Act, “pending repeal.”

According to Republicans, and their view, Obamacare — which aimed to ensure healthcare for the millions of Americans who are unable to get covered by public insurance, or by their employers marked a costly drift toward socialized medical care.

The healthcare law has managed to add more than 20 million people onto insurance plans, lowering the national percentage of Americans without coverage from 16 percent in 2010 to 8.9 percent last year.

The president has said the law should be repealed and replaced “simultaneously,” a stiff challenge given the complexity of America’s vast health care system.

Republicans are pledging a repeal of Obamacare and rapid votes on a replacement bill in order to prevent gaps in coverage and reassure a restless insurance industry.

Half of all Americans are insured through their employers, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, while about seven percent are covered through the so-called individual market, which serves those who are self-employed or are employees without coverage through work.

Obama’s solution rested largely on requiring that everyone be insured, and providing federal subsidies to those who cannot afford coverage. Republicans deemed the first requirement too coercive, and the latter too costly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jamaica Observer

Kristine Alicia to hold album release event at AARLCC

Kristine Alicia to hold album release event at AARLCC

International performing artist, Kristine Alicia, has her sophomore album “Songs from Zion” set for its Fort Lauderdale release event at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center on February 16th at 6:30 p.m. and the digital release of the album the following day on iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube, SoundCloud, and others.

The singer/songwriter who recently collaborated with producer RoryStoneLove on Rory’s label, Black Dub Music, has already released two singles, “Freedom Fighters” and “Hand Over River” along with official music videos for each.

“Songs from Zion” comes nearly a decade since Kristine’s debut album “Get Ready” which received eight nominations at the 2009 Marlin Awards, as she took home both Artist of the Year and Female Reggae Vocal Performance of the Year. The 11-track album includes the work from renowned Jamaicans in music such as, Saxophonist Dean Frazer, Horns player Nambo Robinson, and Producer Mikie Bennett to name a few.

Since she stepped onto the scene, Kristine Alicia has performed nationally and internationally while producing singles which reflect her development as a person and as an artist. “Fans should expect a classic Roots Reggae album rich in inspirational messaging.”

Throughout the time of growth since her debut, Kristine Alicia has collaborated, opened for, and performed with artists such as Taurus Riley, Papa San, Third World, Etna, Nadine Sutherland, and Warrior King. She has performed in the USA and in multiple Caribbean countries. Most recently Kristine Alicia took to the main stage at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in November 2016.

 

Plantation Police on the search for violent group

Plantation Police on the search for violent group

Police in Broward County are searching for a violent group that has ambushed women with beatings and pepper spray while stealing purses and electronics this week at shopping centers in Plantation, Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach.

In two cases, women were followed to their homes, where, police said, their cars were stolen. Plantation Police Detective Philip Toman says they are following up on leads. The group has two women and one or two men, the attacks have so far happened at night.

At a Publix at 1181 S. University Drive in Plantation, a 61-year-old woman was loading groceries into her car’s trunk at 6:20 p.m. last Sunday when a car pulled up behind her and a man got out.

National Weekly January 19, 2017

Lauderhill police still search for suspect in the execution-style killing of Jamaican

Hello and welcome to CNW90.. Today is Inauguration day, Friday, January 20 and 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.

The news today is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

 

Here are today’s top stories:

The city of Lauderhill police officers are still searching for a suspect in the execution style killing of 34-year-old Jamaican national Gary Wallock. According to police, Wallock was leaving The Lobster and Seafood Warehouse with a female counterpart when he was shot at close range by a lone suspect and pronounced dead after police and rescue teams arrived on the scene. Anyone with information on the attack or the getaway vehicle, a 2010 blue Nissan Altima with dark tints, is urged to call Crime stoppers.

 

It’s not too late to have a fitness filled weekend as the 18th Annual Miramar-Pines Rotary 5K and 10K event will be held this Sunday at the Corporate Pavilion of the Miramar Regional Park. The race begins at 8 a.m. with sign in and registration at 7 a.m. The family friendly event is presented by the Rotary Club of Miramar-Pines in collaboration with the City of Miramar. Proceeds collected will benefit the Miramar Police Athletic League, and the Pack-A-Sack Children’s Food Program as well as many other club projects.

 

Jamaican-Nigerian actress, Nikki Beharie, is hosting the ninth season of AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange which features new episodes each Monday now through February 15. This season of takes viewers on an eye-opening trip to the Caribbean with My Father’s Land, which premieres January 30 on the WORLD Channel.

 

In Sports:

CASA Kicks off its annual 2017 Soccer Super & Maters League season tomorrow with a special feature match at 6 p.m. pitting the Lauderhill Jrs. against Links FC from Orlando. And at 8:30 p.m. the Redforce FC will battle against the CASA all Stars. All games will be played at the Lauderhill Sports Park.

 

Now, here’s what’s trending:

President elect Trump was sworn in this afternoon as the 45th United States President at a ceremony held at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. President Trump will now take over control of the White House as commander in chief.

 

For this weekend’s weather forecast:

Highs in the mid 80s in Broward County with scattered storms Sunday. Highs of 80 in Miami-Dade, also seeing some rain on Sunday. 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 news is brought to you by Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera drink, Refreshingly Delicious.”

This has been CNW90, I’m Jahlisa Harvey

 

This Day in History: Barack Obama became the first African American President

On this day in history, January 20, 2009, Barack Obama became the first African American president. He is an American politician who is the 44th and current President of the United States. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and growing up in the Pacific, Obama is a graduate of Columbia University and Harvard Law School, where he was president of the Harvard Law Review. He was a community organizer in Chicago before earning his law degree, and afterward he worked as a civil rights attorney and taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago Law School from 1992 to 2004. Obama ran unsuccessfully in the Democratic primary for the United States House of Representatives in 2000 against incumbent Bobby Rush while representing the 13th District for three terms in the Illinois Senate from 1997 to 2004. During that year, Obama received national attention with his March primary win in the U.S. Senate campaign, his July keynote address at the Democratic National Convention, and his November election to the Senate. In 2008, Obama was nominated for president, a year after his campaign began and after a close primary campaign against Hillary Clinton. He became president-elect after defeating Republican nominee John McCain in the general election, and was inaugurated on January 20. Nine months later, Obama was named the 2009 Nobel Peace Prizelaureate.

During his first two years in office, Obama signed more landmark legislation than any Democratic president since the Great Society. Main reforms were the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, often referred to as “Obamacare”; the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act; and the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Repeal Act of 2010. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 served as economic stimulus amidst the Great Recession, but the GOP regained control of the House of Representatives in 2011. After a lengthy debate over the national debt limit, Obama signed the Budget Control Act of 2011 and the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. In foreign policy, Obama increased U.S. troop levels in Afghanistan, reduced nuclear weapons with the U.S.-Russian New START treaty, and ended military involvement in the Iraq War. He ordered military involvement in Libya in opposition to Muammar Gaddafi, and the military operation that resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden.

In 2013, Obama was sworn in for a second term after being re-elected over Mitt Romney in November 2012. During his second term, Obama promoted greater inclusiveness for LGBT Americans, with his administration filing briefs that urged the Supreme Court to strike down same-sex marriage bans as unconstitutional (United States v. Windsor and Obergefell v. Hodges). Obama also advocated gun control in response to the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. In foreign policy, Obama ordered military intervention in Iraq in response to gains made by ISIL after the 2011 withdrawal from Iraq, continued the process of ending U.S. combat operations in Afghanistan, promoted discussions that led to the 2015 Paris Agreement on global climate change, brokered a nuclear deal with Iran, and normalized U.S. relations with Cuba.

President Trump in, President Obama out

President Trump in, President Obama out

Today, January 20, 2017 is a milestone in America’s history. Exemplifying the Democracy which Americans hold dear, at noon, President Barack Obama the 44th president of the US since January 20, 2009 will hand over the presidency to the 45th elected president, President Donald John Trump. Trump will be sworn in at the US State Capitol in Washington DC at that time.

President Obama the first and only African-American president to serve America, leaves office with the highest approval rating from Americans, He leaves office with an approval rating of 60 percent, and without the weight of any major controversies or scandals.

He recently indicated that as the nation’s former-president he plans to live a relatively quiet life with his wife and former first lady Michelle Obama, and two daughters, Malia and Sasha, in a Washington DC neighborhood not too far from the White House. He also plans to write a book, coordinate plans for the Obama Presidential Library to be located in Chicago, focus on developing a younger generation of leaders, and work with former attorney general Eric Holder in ensuring redistricting of congressional  districts are conducted fairly and not to the disadvantage of any particular group of voters.

In his final press conference on Wednesday, President Obama said he would not interfere in policies related to the new president and his administration. However, he said he would be vocal in case there is evidence there are serious threats to voter’s rights, people’s civil rights and should there be a policy creating mass deportation of people who were born in America.

President Trump, in contrast to the outgoing president assumes the presidency with an approval rating of only 40 percent, one of the lowest of any incoming president. He won the presidency with 306 electoral votes, but his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton received 2.8 million more popular votes.

Trump’s election campaign, and the period since his election on November 8 last year has been extremely controversial. Consensus intelligence reports of direct interference in the general elections by Russians, with the likely knowledge of Russian leader Vladimir Putin, cast a cloud over Trump’s election and has alienated support for his inauguration by over 60 Democratic congressional representatives including Caribbean American Congresswoman Yvette Clarke of New York, and Congresswoman Frederica Wilson and Congressman Alcee Hasting of South Florida.

President Trump has indicated his administration, in its first 100 days, will focus on repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) one of the highlights of the Obama administration; attend to is immigration reform, appointment of a Supreme Court Justice to finally replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia, and implement a stimulus economic plan based on nationwide infrastructure repair and replacement.

The incoming first lady and wife of Donald Trump is Melania Trump. The couple has a ten year old son, Barron, and the new president has four children, Ivanka, Eric, Donald, Jr., and Tiffany, from previous marriages. The three adult children, Ivanka, Eric and Donald, Jr. are married. Ivanka’s husband, Jared Kushner has been appointed as a senior White House advisor to President Trump.

Guyana – ‘not a one hit wonder” following another major oil find

Guyana – ‘not a one hit wonder” following another major oil find

Guyana’s fragile economy could be on the verge of taking off with the yet another world-class oil discovery in waters just off the coast of the South American nation.

Guyana, is the only English speaking country on the northeastern shoulder of the South American continent and players in the energy sector around the world are keeping close watch on the latest developments.

Last week, news emerged that the ExxonMobil affiliate – Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, encountered more than 95 feet of high quality, oil bearing sandstone reservoirs that was drilled to 18,080 feet in over 6,000 feet of water.

In welcoming this latest discovery, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman said this only confirms that Guyana is more than a “one hit wonder” and the country remains on target for oil production in 2020.

The oil was discovered in the Payara field, about 10 miles northwest of the 2015 Liza discovery and is the second oil discovery offshore Guyana.

“I believe that we can confirm that the basin is an active one that shows potential for more discoveries,” said Trotman, adding that  “Whether they would be very large or not is a matter that we need to wait to see, but I think we can now say that we’re heading into an oil and gas industry.”

He said this new discovery, will change the worldview on Guyana.

Meanwhile, the government is now working on establishing a Petroleum Directorate that will come on stream during the first quarter of 2017.
According to Trotman, the Directorate will follow international models, which separate policy development from regulation monitoring.

The government has allocated GUY$200.7 million in this year’s budget for petroleum.

The oil and gas sector is new to Guyana and President David Granger is taking all the necessary precautions.

According to Granger, now, more than ever, his country has to move swiftly to protect itself against the persistent claims of neighbouring Venezuela.

Granger says Guyana must protect its wealth and ensure that investors in the budding oil industry are secure with their investment.

But Guyana will not be entering into unchartered waters on her own. The country will have the support of its oil rich neighbor – Trinidad and Tobago.

During a visit to Guyana last year, Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Minister Nicole Olivierre said both countries will enter into a formal agreement for technical assistance in the development of the oil and gas sector.

 

 

University of Miami to lecture on #BlackLivesMatter

University of Miami to lecture on #BlackLivesMatter

Spring of 2017 will see a major controversial topic become a part University of Miami’s School of Law.  The University will convene an interdisciplinary course called “Race, Class, and Power: University Course on Ferguson and the Black Lives Matter Movement.” The course will engage the multiple facets where Ferguson, the Black Lives Matter movement, and racial justice in the United States could be explored including policing and criminal justice, comparative inquiry regarding race and identity, theories of social movements, law and legal reform and more.

Vice Dean and Professor Osamudia James are the masterminds behind the course and relay the issues behind the motivation. Speaking on the impulse to put together and build a curriculum James said “Black Lives Matter is interesting as both a specific movement in response to a specific set of events, and as a heuristic or signaling device that calls our attention to larger matters of racial inequality in the United States. Studying the movement, and the societal factors that gave rise to it, allows us to think not just about anti-black racial subordination in the United States, but also about the mechanisms of bringing about social justice more generally.”

Her hope is to for the students who take the course and faculty to come away with a “more informed understanding of the movement, of the problems that gave rise to the movement and other movements like it, and a sense for how it should shape participation in our democracy.” Authorities from the UM community will be joined by nationally recognized authorities who have been both vocal and silent on the matter which continued to gain major traction in 2016.

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