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Broward judge rules in favor of Brenda Snipes

Broward judge rules in favor of Brenda Snipes  

After waiting several days for her ruling on a lawsuit filed by NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) against Broward Supervisor of Elections Brenda Snipes over the omission of Constitutional Amendment 2, regarding the legalization of medical marijuana on some county ballots, Circuit Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips ruled against the lawsuit.

In her ruling, Judge Phillips gave assurance that the BSOE has taken the appropriate measures correct the incidences were four voters received mail-in ballots on which Amendment 2 was omitted.

The judge wrote that NORML, the organization seeking the favorable vote for legalizing medical marijuana, failed to “demonstrate irreparable harm or a violation of a clear civil right.”

MORML wanted the court to rule that the Supervisor of Elections should post signs at county polling places, on  social media and through traditional mail, advising voters to check their ballots to verify they contain the amendment.

After the reports of the ballots with the missing amendment was made known to Snipes, she took action that included providing new ballots with the amendment to the affected voters and instructing the staff of the election office to examine returned mail-in ballots to make sure they included Amendment 2.

In a statement reacting to the court’s ruling, Norm Kent, attorney for NORML said the ruling only addressed the ballots which did not have Amendment 2, but did not address the possibility of more ballots not having the  amendment. Kent hinted that NORML could pursue further legal action. In his statement, he also said the ruling “leaves open the possibility that we may have to renew legal options if the breadth of the problem continues to become greater and more expansive than the Supervisor of Elections admits.”

 

Digicel Launches “Help for Haiti” Project

Digicel Launches “Help for Haiti” Project

Digicel announces the launch of its “Help for Haiti” project which intends to provide a safe and convenient option for customers in the US, UK and Canada to quickly provide food relief to Haitian communities affected by the devastating Hurricane Matthew.

The leading telecommunications provider in the Caribbean, Digicel has provided medical supplies, clothing and other important relief items while the Miami office has offered free calls to keep families connected.   This food transfer initiative is an additional outlet provided by their new eCommerce platform REDBARREL, the Caribbean’s first online eCommerce company.

“Our main goal is to ensure food supplies are available to help people suffering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Matthew,” says Andreina Gonzalez – Digicel Diaspora’s Marketing Director. “We have a system in place that will deliver these goods to impacted areas, and understand how time sensitive and crucial it is for residents to have the supplies they need to sustain throughout this ordeal.”

Customers can log on to http://go.redbarrel.com/helpforhaiti.html to access four food packages designed to for one or multiple people. Food will be delivered by Haitian retail partner, Jaco Transfer through their local warehouse in Haiti. Customers can also use the site to donate supplies for the general relief effort through Haven, an NGO partnering with the Haitian Government and supported by the Digicel Foundation, to immediately distribute supplies to those most in need.

For more information on how to participate in the “Help for Haiti” Project, contact care@redbarrel.com.

Helping Reduce the Risk of Infection During Strong Chemotherapy

Opportunity to Receive Support at Home

Having cancer is a journey. In addition to scheduling time for a doctor’s visit to receive strong chemotherapy, some people may need to return the next day to receive a white blood cell count-boosting medicine that helps reduce the risk of infection.

Neulasta® (pegfilgrastim) is a prescription medicine used to help reduce the chance of infection due to a low white blood cell count, in people with certain types of cancer (non-myeloid), who receive anti-cancer medicines (chemotherapy) that can cause fever and low blood cell count.

Important Safety Information

Who should not take Neulasta®?

Do not take Neulasta® if you have had a serious allergic reaction to Neulasta® (pegfilgrastim) or NEUPOGEN® (filgrastim).

What should I tell my health care provider before taking Neulasta®? Tell your healthcare provider if you:

  • Have sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease
  • Have had severe skin reactions to acrylic adhesives
  • Are allergic to latex
  • Have problems with your kidneys
  • Have any other medical problems
  • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if Neulasta® may harm your unborn baby.
  • Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if Neulasta® passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over the counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Patients receiving strong chemotherapy may develop a weakened immune system, leaving them at a higher risk of infection. Neulasta® has been shown to reduce the risk of infection or febrile neutropenia (an infection with a fever) – a medical emergency that can lead to hospitalization. Neulasta® Onpro® offers another way for people to receive Neulasta®, at home or in another appropriate setting.

“I’ve been working in oncology for 14 years, and while at times it can be emotionally challenging, I find my job very fulfilling. I feel good when I have the opportunity to offer appropriate patients receiving strong chemotherapy an innovative delivery option like Neulasta® Onpro®.”

– Linda Buck, Registered Nurse Practitioner

The Neulasta® Onpro® kit is comprised of a single dose of Neulasta® and a single-use On-body Injector. The On-body Injector is applied the same day as chemotherapy administration and is designed to automatically deliver the dose of Neulasta® the next day, so that you may not have to return to the doctor just for a shot of Neulasta®.

The On-body Injector (a small, lightweight delivery system) is filled with the co-packaged Neulasta® prefilled syringe and applied to the skin (arm or abdomen) by a healthcare provider during the chemotherapy appointment – designed to allow people who are undergoing strong chemotherapy treatment for certain types of cancer to receive Neulasta® any day of the week, including weekends or holidays.

Learn more about how the Neulasta® Onpro® kit may offer the possibility of fewer doctor visits. For information about the Neulasta® Onpro® kit, and patient support tools such as:

  • Questions for the doctor
  • Patient brochure
  • Patient video

Visit https://www.neulasta.com/onpro/

Important Safety Information, continued

What are possible serious side effects of Neulasta®?

  • Spleen Rupture. Your spleen may become enlarged and can rupture while taking Neulasta®. A ruptured spleen can cause death. Call your doctor right away if you have pain in the left upper stomach area or left shoulder tip area. This pain could mean your spleen is enlarged or ruptured.
  • A serious lung problem called Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Call your healthcare provider or get emergency medical help right away if you get any of these symptoms of ARDS: fever, shortness of breath, trouble breathing, or a fast rate of breathing.
  • Serious Allergic Reactions. Get emergency medical help right away if you get any of these symptoms of a serious allergic reaction with Neulasta®: shortness of breath, wheezing, dizziness, swelling around the mouth or eyes, fast pulse, sweating, and hives.

If you have an allergic reaction during the delivery of Neulasta®, remove the On-body Injector for Neulasta® by grabbing the edge of the adhesive pad and peeling off the On-body Injector. Get emergency medical help right away.

To provide additional support, patients and caregivers can download the companion app. The On-body Injector Digital Companion (Apple® and Android™ available), which is an optional resource for patients who have been prescribed the Neulasta® Onpro® kit. The app:

  • Generates optional notifications to guide the patient through the Neulasta® dose delivery process;
  • Provides easy access to Patient Instructions for Use, and Neulasta® Patient Prescribing Information and Important Safety Information;
  • Has the ability to share the Neulasta® dose delivery process by “connecting” the app with a friend or family member; and
  • Includes one-touch phone access to Neulasta® Patient Support Services.

Important Safety Information, continued

  • Sickle Cell Crises. Severe sickle cell crises, and sometimes death, can happen in people with sickle cell trait or disease who receive filgrastim, a medicine similar to Neulasta®.
  • Kidney injury (glomerulonephritis). Kidney injury has been seen in patients who received Neulasta®. You should notify your healthcare provider right away if you experience puffiness in your face or ankles, blood in your urine or brown colored urine or you notice you urinate less than usual.
  • Increased white blood cell count (leukocytosis). Your doctor will check your blood during treatment with Neulasta®.
  • Capillary Leak Syndrome. Neulasta® can cause fluid to leak from blood vessels into your body’s tissues. This condition is called “Capillary Leak Syndrome” (CLS). CLS can quickly cause you to have symptoms that may become life-threatening. Get emergency medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms:
    • swelling or puffiness and are urinating less often
    • trouble breathing
    • swelling of your stomach area (abdomen) and feeling of fullness
    • dizziness or feeling faint
    • a general feeling of tiredness

The most common side effect of Neulasta® is pain in the bones and in your arms and legs.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of Neulasta®. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1.800.FDA.1088 (1.800.332.1088).

For more information about Neulasta®, talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist; go to www.neulasta.com, or call 1.844.696.3852 (1.844.MYNEULASTA).

Please see Neulasta® Patient Information.

USA-003-035023

Great economic news: US economy grows 2.9%

Great economic news: US economy grows 2.9 %

After a sluggish 1 percent growth for each of the first two quarters of 2016, drawing criticism from opponents of the Obama administration that the national economy was not growing, on Friday the US Commerce Department announced the economy grew by 2.9 percent in the third quarter of the year.

The economic growth coincides with the increase in the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the value of all the goods and services produced in the national economy. The surge in economic growth reflects growth in investment, exports and  consumer spending.

Recently, economists surveyed by Bloomberg predicted that the economy would grow by 2.6 percent in the third quarter.

Miami economist Lindsay Bramwell had predicted an increase between 2.3 and 2.5 percent. “I definitely predicted positive growth, with oil price levelling off below $50 per barrel. The low price has strengthened the ability of countries that buy US products to purchase more, which is a tremendous boost to the US export market. This increase has in turn boost the sales of businesses, small, medium and large.”

Bramwell also cited that with employment on the rise across the country, and the price of one of the more demanding commodities, gasoline, falling consumers are spending more, and able to reduce household debt.

The growth of the nation’s economy has also been attributed to the maintenance of a low interest rate by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve has been looking for an acceleration in economic growth before raising interest rates again. The Fed is scheduled to meet next week but most economist do not expect the national interest rate to increase, even with the positive GDP growth. It is believed the Fed Reserve will not raise rates until concern over the November 8 presidential election subsides, and the new president and administration is settled. The Fed has also signaled that before raising the interest rate it wants to see a lowering of the unemployment rate below the current 5 percent that has prevailed since August this year.

 

Poll shows majority of Floridian voters support medical marijuana

Poll shows majority of Floridian voters support medical marijuana amendment

One of the more anticipated outcome of the November general elections in Florida is how voters vote on Constitutional Amendment 2 which seeks to legalize marijuana for medical purposes.

A survey released earlier this week by Florida Atlantic University (FAU) indicated 67 percent of eligible voters in Florida say they would vote in favor of the   constitutional amendment. The survey also found that 30 percent of those polled would vote against the amendment.

If the survey is correct, the amendment would be easily approved as it requires the vote of 60 percent of voters to pass.

Several other polls also showed the majority of eligible voters, Republicans, Democrats and voters without party affiliation, in favor of voting for the amendment.

This is the second time the amendment has been of Florida’s general election ballot. Appearing on the 2014 ballot the amendment was narrowly defeated as it received 58 percent of the 60 percent votes required. If approved the public will be able to purchase marijuana for medical purposed from state licensed vendors, and on prescriptions from medical practitioners

 

 

National Weekly October 27, 2016

FAA issues Emergency Order for Samsung Galaxy Note 7

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, October 28th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Here’s a look at our top stories:

To celebrate a spook-tacular season, the Lauderhill Police Department will be holding their 5th annual Night Out Against Crime and Halloween Safety Day. Held at the Sadkin Center tonight from 5 to 9, this free community event will feature a Kids Hayride, Haunted House, Police and Fire Demonstrations, and Candy. Residents and friends will get the chance to meet with officers and community officials as they offer a safe place for families to gather and join in the Halloween fun.

Tomorrow, the city of Miramar will be having a Family Fun Day at City Hall Town Center starting at 10 a.m. The event will include food trucks, a drawing competition, and live entertainment.

Booville returns tonight in the city of Miramar from 6 to 9. This event is free and open to all ages to provide a safe environment for the Halloween season. Organizers encourage attendees to be dressed in their best costumes and be prepared to have fun!

In sports:

Manchester United beat a weakened Manchester City 1-0 in the fourth round of the English League Cup yesterday, with Juan Mata scoring the second-half winner. United will play Burnley FC at Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester tomorrow at 10 a.m.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

The U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration announced the emergency order last week that they are enforcing a ban on the Galaxy Note 7. Government regulators warn that anyone caught trying to fly in a passenger plane with a Samsung Galaxy Note 7 could have their phone confiscated and “may face fines.”

For today’s weather forecast:

Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 82 and a low of 76. Cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 81 and a low of 77.

For more information on these and other stories, visit Caribbean national weekly.com. Remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean – American outlet.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera drink, Refreshingly Delicious.”

You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Suzette Speaks.

This Day in History: Trevor Berwick was found dead

Trevor Berbick, a former WBC heavyweight champ
Muhammed Ali tried but was outworked by Berbick for most of the fight.

On this day in Caribbean history, October 28, 2006, Jamaica Trevor Berbick, the last boxer to fight the legendary Muhammad Ali, was found dead in a churchyard near his home in Norwich.

At the age of 21, Berbick represented his native Jamaica in the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, Canada as a heavyweight boxer, despite having had only 11 prior amateur bouts. His lack of experience was evident as he lost to the eventual silver medalist, Mircea Şimon of Romania. However, he still displayed a lot of promise as a young heavyweight boxer. The previous year, Berbick lost a decision to future heavyweight champion Michael Dokes in the Pan American Games semifinals, winning a bronze medal.

On November 22, in his first defense of the title, Berbick took on Mike Tyson, who was looking to break Floyd Patterson’s record and become, at the age of twenty, the youngest ever heavyweight champion. In the second round, Tyson dropped Berbick with a quick knockdown. Berbick was quickly overwhelmed by his opponent and late in the round, he went down again. The champion rose to his feet, but immediately stumbled backward and fell back to the canvas. Berbick tried twice more to make it to his feet but fell both times, and referee Mills Lane stopped counting and waved the fight off to end Berbick’s reign as champion.

Along with Larry Holmes, Berbick is one of only two men in professional boxing history to have fought both Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson.

In 1991, he went to the UWFI in Japan to fight Nobuhiko Takada in a “boxer vs. wrestler” bout. Berbick claimed that he had been double-crossed and that he had expected the fight to be like American kickboxing, but it turned out that the rules allowed Takada to kick Berbick below the belt. Berbick refused to mount any offense, instead repeatedly complaining to the referee as Takada kicked him repeatedly in the legs. Takada claimed victory by default when Berbick exited the ring.

Afterwards, his career deteriorated further. He eventually fought his last bout in 2000 against Canadian journeyman Shane Sutcliffe, winning a 12-round unanimous decision. Afterwards, a CAT scan revealed a blood clot in his brain and his boxing license was revoked. His final professional record was 49 wins (33 by knockout), 11 losses, and 1 draw.

On Nov 3 police charged two men, one a nephew of Berbick, with murdering the former world heavyweight boxing champion. In 2007 a jury found Harold Berbick guilty of murder and Kenton Gordon guilty of manslaughter in the killing of the former boxer.

Urban Collective Celebrates the Arts and Humanities in South Florida

National Arts and Humanities Month

The Urban Collective joins thousands of arts organizations and communities across the nation in celebrating National Arts and Humanities Month throughout October. The Urban Collective and Art Africa Miami Arts Fair will carry this message to the people of the South Florida community through activities that honor the efforts of artists, historians, teachers, and cultural groups working to make the arts and humanities a part of everyone’s life.

Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts and national coordinator of Arts and Humanities month, says, “Everyone recognizes the creative and cultural value of the arts and humanities. National Arts and Humanities Month offers us a chance to celebrate the often overlooked economic, educational, and civic engagement values that the arts impart in our daily lives.”

“Arts and Humanities has always been a tool to claim space, build power, and to question the injustice that have shaped our social experiences,” says Neil Hall, Visionary Founder of the Art Africa Miami Arts Fair.

Everyone in the community is encouraged to participate in what has become this country’s largest annual collective celebration of the arts and humanities. Listed below are some of the special events planned for National Arts and Humanities Month in South Florida.

*Miami City Ballet-October 21-23-Giselle At

www.arshtcenter.org

*KROMA Gallery-October 1-November 5, 2016-A Visual Exploration of State-Sanctioned Violence-The force-www.kromamiami.com

*The Art of Design Constructability-October 28, 2016-Miami International University-305.428.5962

*Sandstorm Film-October 21-October 27, 2016-Coral Gable Art Cinema-786.472.2249

National Arts and Humanities Month is coordinated by Americans for the Arts, the national organization working to empower communities with the resources and support necessary to provide access to all of the arts for all of the people. This month-long celebration grew out of National Arts Week, which was begun in 1985 by the National Endowment for the Arts and Americans for the Arts.

More information about National Arts and Humanities Month is available online at www.AmericansForTheArts.org/nahm. View events across the nation and add yours to the celebration at http://artsmeet.artsusa.org.

 

 

press release

Tarrus Riley announces new video for hot track

Tarrus Riley announces new video for hot track

Tarrus Riley’s hit song ‘Don’t Come Back’ is coming soon. The song, which is on the Crown Love beat, which has been doing well in the French and Spanish speaking regions of the Caribbean, was also a number one song in Trinidad and Tobago. Riley says that for the video he is working with Walu who has directed videos for Sean Paul’s 2012 release of ‘Call on Jah’ which featured Spragga Benz and Segarra’s 5150, featuring Busta Rhymes. “The song is exploding all over the Caribbean. We were recently in the French Caribbean and they were fanatical about the song. The song is also doing well in the Spanish areas, because there is a little bit of Spanish in it and it is on a rhythm they like,” Riley said. “It is a nice love song stating that if you feel like you want to take me and play me for a fool, I prefer you leave and don’t come back.”

African Diaspora Festival brings Fashion to Ft. Lauderdale

African Diaspora Festival brings Fashion to Ft. Lauderdale

The African Wardrobe Festival (AWF) invites all members of the community to attend this year’s event promoting African fashion, visual art, music, literature and culture. It will be a day of cultural adventures an art exhibit and silent auction, a Q&A session with the panelists, documentary screening, a best-dressed competition in African attire, and a DJ. “There are a lot of cultural adventures in stores for the festival, and the experience will be like no other,” said Jaury Jean-Enard, Creative Director. The festival will take place Saturday November 5 starting at 1 p.m. at the Old Dillard Museum located in Fort Lauderdale. The African Wardrobe Festival has released the complete list of people who will serve on a panel to engage the audience on African culture, music, food and traditions.

The speakers include Ayanbinrin Tosin, affectionately known as ‘Mother Drum Africa’ she is the quintessential vocalist, dancer, and especially a talking drummer. In Dallas, she was named the Custodian of the Yoruba Heritage by Impeccable First Eye Concept in Dallas. She is also known for drum classes, tie-dye, folklore songs and cooking African dishes. Dr. Yinka Tella, president of the Nigerian American Foundation and promoter of African Museum of Arts and Culture (AMAC). He oversees all aspects of the Nigerian American Foundation in furthering the collective interests of all nonprofit Nigerian associations in South Florida. Babacar M’bow, Senegalese scholar and arts curator, he is also the former International Programs and Exhibit Coordinator for Broward County Libraries Division. M’bow was a recent speaker at the Caribbean Studies Association, Haiti Conference. Dr. Agbeko-Kwasi (AK) Tosu, international consultant and socio-pathologist whose work centers on facilitating transformative resolution pertaining to human relations, culture and diversity.

 

 

5th Annual Lauderhill Halloween Safety Day

5th Annual Lauderhill Halloween Safety Day

To celebrate a spook-tacular season, the Lauderhill Police Department will be holding their 5th annual Night Out Against Crime and Halloween Safety Day. Held at the Sadkin Center on Friday, October 28 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., this free community event will feature a Kids Hayride, Haunted House, Police and Fire Demonstrations, Child Safety Seat Inspections, Free Child ID Cards, Halloween Safety Bags and Candy. Residents and friends will get the chance to meet with officers and community officials as they offer a safe place for families to gather and join in the Halloween fun. There will also be games, prizes, and food provided by the Police Department.

Immigration application fees set to increase in December

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, October 27th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW 90, I’m Jahlisa Harvey.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Here’s a look at our top stories:

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke is urging Caribbean nationals in the US who want to file for immigration applications, to submit them before December 23 when several fees are set to increase. Congresswoman says her staff is ready to assist individuals with the status of pending applications as well as provide references to local organizations who assist in completing the application process and paperwork.

Donors are coming together for the pledge 2 build fundraising campaign where Jamaicans across the globe raise funds for their respective parishes. The fundraising period begins Tuesday, November 1, and runs through January 31, 2017. Before the “kick off” in Jamaica, there will be a series of Diaspora Launch Receptions including one this evening starting at 6 hosted by the Consul General to Miami, Franz Hall.

WhatsApp, the app many Caribbean Americans use to communicate with people overseas has rolled out the much-awaited video-calling feature available only to Android users. Customers can click on the calling button and choose between ‘Voice’ and ‘Video’ calling options.

In sports:

Jamaica’s Alia Atkinson on Yesterday broke the 50-metre breaststroke short course world record at the FINA World Cup tour in Japan. Atkinson won the event in 28 point 64 seconds, shaving 16 hundredths off the old record which was set by Jessica Hardy in 2009. This is Atkinson’s second world record as she is currently tied for the 100 meter breaststroke record.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Today is International Creole Day, a day of learning about Haitian culture and embracing the Creole language. Atizan will be hosting an event tonight at the Caribbean Marketplace from 6 to 9 hoping to encourage everyone to join and learn about the Haitian culture.

For today’s weather forecast:

Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 83 and a low of 74. Cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 81 and a low of 75.

For more information on these and other stories, visit Caribbean national weekly.com. Remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean – American outlet.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera drink, Refreshingly Delicious.”

You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Jahlisa Harvey.

Twenty percent of Florida voters have already voted

Twenty percent of Florida voters have already voted

With 12 days to go until the November 8 general Election, data posted by the various Supervisor of Elections Offices in Florida indicates strong participation by Florida voters in early voting and mail-in votes. The data indicates that as of Thursday morning, October 27 some 2.5 million people have voted out of the statewide roster of some 11 million registered voters.

Although it is not possible to ascertain who are the candidates voters have voted for, the data reveals that in accordance with party affiliation there is a virtual dead heat state-wide between the major parties. The data indicates 41 percent of Republicans have so far voted and 40.5 percent Democrats, and 16 percent are voters with no party affiliation.

It has long been predicted that the final outcome of the elections in Florida rests in the way the NPA  voters vote.

Closer analysis of the voting data reveals more Republicans, 53 percent, have so far voted by mail compared to 49 percent Democrats. On the other hand, 54 percent Democrats have already voted in early voting compared to 47 percent Democrats.

The percentage of early voting in South Florida is higher than other regions in the state. 19.5 percent of registered voters in South Florida has already voted early, with more people voting in Miami-Dade. Up to Thursday morning 103,500 people had voted in Miami Dade, 97,043 in Broward County and 49,714 in Palm Beach County.

Through Wednesday, more people in Miami-Dade have voted than anywhere else: 238,888, or 17.8 percent of the county electorate voted by early voting or by mail and in Broward County approximately 199,925 voters had cast votes by both methods by Thursday morning. Of these voters 116,024 were Democrats, 47,131 Republicans and 36,770 NPA.

Congresswoman urges Caribbean nationals to apply for citizenship before December 23

Congresswoman urges Caribbean nationals to apply for citizenship before year-end

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke is urging Caribbean nationals who want to file immigration applications and petitions to submit them before December 23, 2016, when several fees will increase.

Citizenship confers enormous benefits, such as the right to vote, that allow people an opportunity to enjoy the full blessings of American life.

It relieves and protects those lacking citizenship status, resident foreign nationals, from the fear that any interaction with the law enforcement officials or the court system could result in deportation proceedings and a forced separation from loved ones,” said Clarke, the daughter of the Jamaican born councilor Dr. Una Clarke.

“Citizenship makes it possible to fully enjoy the fruits of one’s labour. As the daughter of parents who came to the United States from the nation of Jamaica and the representative of a community that includes immigrants from around the world, I am hopeful that individuals who are eligible to apply for citizenship will complete the required paperwork and submit their forms before fees increase on December 23.”

She said her staff stands ready to assist interested individuals by inquiring about the status of pending applications as well as provide references to local organizations that assist in completing the application process and paperwork.

 

Jamaican murder verdict stuns Diaspora

Jamaican murder verdict stuns Diaspora

Members of South Florida’s Diaspora were shocked that a Jamaican businessman was acquitted earlier this week of all charges related to the controversial shooting death of 17-year old Kingston College student, Khajeel Mais, on the night of July 1, 2011.

Patrick Powell,59, was arrested after the shooting and murder, shooting with intent, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and failure to produce a firearm for inspection.

The prosecution contended Mais was a passenger in a taxi that collided with a BMW – X6 vehicle driven by Powell in Havendale, a St. Andrew suburb. It was  alleged Powell alighted from the vehicle after it was hit, fired at the taxi, hitting and killing Mais.

During the trial which began on Oct 12 before Judge Lloyd Hibbert, the key witness for the prosecution was Wayne Wright, the taxi’s driver.

However, Wright backtracked on most of the evidence he reportedly gave the police in two statements in July, 2011, but which were not digitally recorded.

Wright repeatedly denied he gave evidence to the police and had seen Powell with a gun from which he fired three shots on the fateful night. He also denied telling the police he previously knew Mais, his passenger.

Wright was eventually declared a hostile witness based his inconsistencies, adverse testimony and attitude towards the prosecution.

Most legal experts believe the trial collapsed based on Wright’s testimony.

On Oct 24, the jury acquitted Powell after the prosecution was unable to prove without a reasonable doubt that Wright was present when Mais was shot.

The verdict caused a passionate backlash among Jamaicans in South Florida and in Jamaica. Powell’s attorney, Patrick Atkinson, former Attorney General, in countering the backlash said,  “There was circumstantial evidence but certainly not enough to establish his guilt. There was a lot of real evidence around but somehow the dots were not connected for whatever reason.”

Most of the comments made by Jamaicans in South Florida were that the Justice system in Jamaica is “corrupt and inept.”

Responding to the public outcry against the Jamaican justice system Justice Minister Delroy Chuck tried to give assurances that transforming the system is among the government’s top priority.  “Recent developments over the past 24 hours have again fueled national discussion on the justice system. I assure you this Government views justice as a priority….we are even more determined to fix the ailing system with a sense of urgency,” adding there is no quick fix to the system.

 

 

Alia Atkinson breaks world record

Alia Atkinson breaks world record

Jamaica’s Alia Atkinson on Wednesday broke the 50-metre breaststroke short course world record at the FINA World Cup tour in Tokyo, Japan. Atkinson won the event in 28:64 seconds, shaving 16 hundredths off the old mark of 28.80 seconds which was set by Jessica Hardy in Berlin in 2009. This is Atkinson’s second world record as she is currently tied with Ruta Meilutyte for the 100 metres breaststroke record.

The Jamaican won the event ahead of Russia’s Yula Efimova and American Molly Hannis. She is only one of three women ever to have broken thee 29-second barrier in the 50 metres breaststroke.

She will receive a bonus of US$10,000 from FINA for breaking the world record, along with 20 points towards her cluster bonus.

Lauderdale Lakes Commission confirms new City Manager

Lauderdale Lakes Commission confirms Interim City Manager as City Manager

Acting swiftly following the resignation of City Manager Kevin Baker last month, the commissioners of the City of Lauderdale Lakes appointed interim City Manager Phil Alleyne to the position full time.

The decision to confirm Alleyne, 65, was made at a commission meeting on Tuesday night, but was not a consensus. Of the five commissioners, Commissioner Beverly Williams voted against the confirmation. Williams said while she has no problem with Alleyne, who before his confirmation was the city’s public works director, but she was reluctant to rush her decision. She said she “maintained” the position she held since last year when the commission sought to appoint a city manager to fill the vacancy left by the dismissal of Johnathan Allen. “I believe the hiring of the city manager should be done carefully, preferably with the aid of a professional consultant.”  However, her colleagues voted over her objections believing Alleyne was suitable, so there was no need to delay the decision or spend money hiring a consultant.

The decision was made although Alleyne doesn’t meet a key city rule for hiring the city manager – having have five years’ experience as a city manager or assistant city manager. Alleyne has neither of these experiences. However, the commissioners waived this requirement to appoint him.

He acted as city manager for less than two months, and has four-year experience as the city’s public works director from 2006 to 2010. He voluntarily resigned from his position in 2010 amidst the city’s financial crisis, but returned to the position in July of this year. Since August he has also served simultaneously as the city’s community development services director.

National Weekly found mixed response to Alleyne’s appointment from city residents.  Paul Bramwell said he isn’t opposed to Alleyne’s appointment. “I think he has the experience and knows how the city functions  after all these years.” However, another resident Leticia Kirlew said, “I’m surprised to hear a new city manager has been selected already.  I think It would be better to wait and select the city manager after the new commission and new mayor takes over next year.”

The commission did not set the terms of Alleyne’s contract at Tuesday’s meeting. The details of the contract were deferred to be developed by Mayor Barrington Russel who leaves office next month, and City Attorney Jim Brady.

 

 

100 Black Men of South Florida Connect Students to Careers

100 Black Men of South Florida Connect Students to Careers

The 100 Black Men of South Florida Continues to Lead By Providing Resources and Options To Help The Youth of South Florida Navigate Their Life and Career Choices Miami, FL-October 25, 2016-Encouraging students to explore careers they are interested in is a key way to demonstrate the relevance of a college degree. According to the U.S. Department of Education statistics from 2012, Florida is currently tied with four states, having the fifth-lowest graduation rate.
Researchers say nationwide progress means the national graduation rate could reach 90 percent by 2020. The 100 Black Men of South Florida (100BlackMenSF)’s College and Career Fair hopes to raise awareness about the importance of college, connects students with many different professions and gives community members a chance to share their expertise with students. This year’s expo will take place on Thursday, November 3, 2106 at the Miami-Dade County Fair grounds from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
A parent or chaperone must accompany each student. Each student must bring:  copies of their transcript, copies of their community service hours, copies of ACT/SAT scores. Students should dress in appropriate business attire for this event. Please see the guidelines below for what constitutes professional dress. Students should be encouraged to wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking.  The link for students to register is http://2016collegeandcareerexpo.eventbrite.com.
The outpour of support from college and vocational partnerships that have signed on with the 100BlackMenSF to help students navigate a plan for their future includes over 200 Colleges/Universities and Industry Leaders. The NACCP will also be in attendance to encourage those students who are 18 to exercise their right to vote in this year’s election.
The members of the 100BlackMenSF recognize that not all students are going to college.
The 100 Black Men of South Florida, Inc. has been at the forefront of mentoring and providing innovative programs for young black males in South Florida. Some of their signature initiatives include Positive Youth Development, Dr. Harold Guinyard Leadership Academy and Collegiate 100. Members say these programs have made a significant impact on the young men of the South Florida community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

press release, Harris Public Relations

On This Day in History: St. Vincent and the Grenadines Independence

On this day in history, October 27, 1979, St. Vincent and the Grenadines claimed their independence.

From 1763 until its independence in 1979, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines passed through various stages of colonial status under the British. A representative assembly was authorized in 1776, Crown Colony government was installed in 1877, a legislative council was created in 1925, and universal adult suffrage was granted in 1951.

During the period of its control of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the British made several unsuccessful attempts to affiliate the island with other Windward Islands. This would have simplified Britain’s control over the region through a unified administration. In the 1960s, several regional islands under British control, including Saint Vincent, also made an independent attempt to unify. The unification was to be called the West Indies Federation and was driven by a desire to gain freedom from British rule. The attempt collapsed in 1962.

Saint Vincent was granted “associate statehood” status by Britain on 27 October 1969. This gave Saint Vincent complete control over its internal affairs but was short of full independence. On 27 October 1979, following a referendum under Milton Cato, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became the last of the Windward Islands to gain independence. Independence came on the 10th anniversary of Saint Vincent’s associate statehood status.

In April 1979, La Soufrière erupted again. Although no one was killed, thousands were evacuated, and again there was extensive agricultural damage. In 1980 and 1987, hurricanes damaged many banana and coconut plantations. Hurricane seasons were also very active in 1998 and 1999, with Hurricane Lenny in 1999 causing extensive damage to the west coast of the island.

On 25 November 2009, voters were asked to approve a new constitution in a referendum. The new constitution proposed to make the country a republic and replacing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state with a non-executive President. A two-thirds majority was required, and it was defeated by 29,019 votes to 22,493.

Lawsuit filed against SEO Brenda Snipes

…

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, October 26th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW 90, I’m Suzette Speaks.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Here’s a look at our top stories:

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has insisted that the international governing body is immune from legal claims that it is responsible for the outbreak of a devastating cholera in Haiti that began in 2010. However, he recently acknowledged a “moral responsibility” for the epidemic and is now scrambling to compensate those infected with cash payments from a proposed $400 million cholera response package. He also wants to make good on an unfulfilled promise to eradicate cholera from Haiti as the disease continues to claim lives.

Yesterday during an emergency hearing, a Broward judge heard claims in a lawsuit filed by the Florida of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. The lawsuit was filed against Broward County Supervisor of Elections, Brenda Snipes last week after two voters presented mail-in ballots they received that didn’t include Amendment 2 to legalize medical marijuana.

Grammy-nominated Jamaican jazz pianist, Monty Alexander, known for his spirited musical conceptions, is coming to Miami next month. Alexander and the Harlem-Kingston Express Band will fuse the musical worlds of American jazz and Caribbean calypso in a performance to be held at the South-Miami- Dade Cultural Arts Center on November 5 starting at 8 p.m.

In sports:

Carlos Alberto, who famously captained the great 1970 Brazil soccer team to World Cup glory, has died at the age of 72.  Alberto died of a heart attack at the age of 72, with his former Brazilian club Santos leading with tributes the outstanding soccer player.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Florida with 29 electoral votes is being aggressively sought by the Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump campaigns to boost their chances for winning the US presidency. Over the past three days Trump, Clinton and their respective surrogates have held rallies across the State. Clinton and President Obama will return to campaign in Florida later this week.

For today’s weather forecast:

Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 83 and a low of 74. Cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 81 and a low of 75.

For more information on these and other stories, visit Caribbean national weekly.com. Remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean – American outlet.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera drink, Refreshingly Delicious.”

You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Suzette Speaks.

Jamaica’s Vashil Fernandez cut from Heat’s final roster

Vashil Fernandez

When the Miami Heat opens its 2016/2017 NBA season tonight against the Orlando Magic at the Amway Center in Orlando, Vashil Fernandez, the Jamaican born center the team signed on October 17 will not be among the 15 team members. Fernandez who played with the Heat in a pre-season game against the Charlotte Hornets was cut by the team after that game. However, there is speculation that if he is not signed by another NBA team, the Heat could resign him to the teams’ D or junior team.

This year’s Heat team is barely recognizable to the 2015/16 team that made it to the playoffs last year, advancing to the second round before being eliminated by the Toronto Raptors.

From the 2015/16 team only star center Hassan Whiteside, point guard Goran Dragic, forwards Justice Winslow, Udonis Haslem, Jeff Roberts, and Chris Bosh, and guards Josh Richardson, and Tyler Johnson remain. However, Bosh playing time on the team is undecided as he has not been cleared to play by team doctors following his second bout with blood clots last season which resulted in him missing most of the second half of the season and the playoffs.

A major disappointment for Heat fans is that forward Dwayne Wade who was with the team since 2004 and helped the Heat to win three NBA Championships decided not to resign after the 2015/16 season, and is now a member of his hometown team, the Chicago Bulls.

The team’s new members include former Toronto Raptors forward James Johnson, and former Oklahoma guard Dion Waiters. The other new members on the roster include, Derrick Williams, Luke Babbitt, Wayne Ellington, Rodney McGruder, and Willie Reed.

Despite the new look team Heat coach, Erik Spoelstra is optimistic the team could still make the playoffs. He says the team’s strength is its versatility and depth and will not have to depend on “one or two guys to dominate every night.”

 

Florida’s university wants to reduce cost of online classes

Florida’s university system seeking to reduce cost of online classes

Although Florida Universities like FIU and FAU that are part of Florida’s university system offer online courses, several students like Heidi Crooks, Jamaican-American Miami resident had to pay more for the convenience.

However, it was recently reported that the 12-college state  system is pursuing plans to reduce the costs for online course, which would make it possible for more students to access this method of learning and more quickly. The Board of Governors of the college system is seeking to increase up to 40 percent of undergraduate student credit hours in online classes by 2025.

Crooks, now a college education financial adviser, said several students have been unable to take advantage of online courses because the costs of these classes are comparatively higher than traditional on-campus classes.

The main reason for the higher rates of online is a $30 per credit hour distance-learning fee students taking online classes must pay. In the past this fee was even higher at some colleges, but Florida’s Legislature capped the fee at $30 earlier this year.

This disparity between fees paid for online courses and traditional classes were confirmed recently by the Innovation and Online Committee of the Board of Governors of Florida’s University System.

Responding to the appeal of students, especially those with full time jobs, who prefer the convenience of pursuing online classes than attending on-campus classes, the university system is seeking to reduce the cost of online courses.

Florida’s Governor Rick Scott also supports lowering the cost of online courses at state colleges. At an education summit earlier this year, calling on the colleges to increase their graduating rates, he pushed for expansion of on-line courses, saying students should not be disadvantaged by paying more for these courses.

The Board of Governors, assisted by leaders of the colleges are examining various proposals for reducing the cost of online courses.

The report of the Innovation and Online Committee claims an increase in online college courses would have an economic advantage for the state’s universities. It’s projected some $184 million would be saved by not building additional classrooms if online classes are expanded significantly over the next five years. The committee also indicated students pursuing online bachelor’s degree courses graduate usually within the required four-year period compared to 4.3 years for students who do not pursue these courses.

 

This Day in History: Mahalia Jackson was born

“On this day in history, October 26, 1911 Mahalia Jackson was born in New Orleans where she shared a shotgun house with 13 people.

But before it did, Jackson’s mother died when she was just four and she had to leave school in the fourth grade to help out at home. She had music though — the jazz bands that entertained the city and the gospel that healed souls, with some Bessie Smith in between. On Every Wednesday, Friday and four times on Sunday, when Jackson sang at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, the sound wafted out into the street so that, one imagines, sinners also could enjoy her energetic contralto voice.

In the late 1920s, Jackson moved to Chicago, where she sang and performed with church choirs and began recording in the 1930s. Her first big hit was “Move Up a Little Higher” in 1947, which sold a million copies and led to radio and television appearances, a tour in Europe and gospel music show on CBS.

Jackson also lent her powerful voice to the civil rights movement. The “Queen of Gospel” sang at Selma, Alabama, the March on Washington and at the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“She put her career and faith on the line, and both of them prevailed,” Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. told NPR. “And, of course, when she got through with the big meetings, she could cook as good as she could sing.”

 

 

 

 

bet.com

More Zika cases in Miami-Dade

More Zika cases in Miami-Dade

Some two weeks ago in a press conference held in the Wynwood community of Miami-Dade County, Florida Governor Rick Scoot declared that community free of the mosquitoe borne Zika virus which has contaminated several people.

However, Miami-Dade County is not free of Zika. On Tuesday, Florida’s Department of Health announced that six additional cases of Zika was found in Florida, and two of these cases were related to people who contracted the disease in Miami-Dade County.

Four new travel-related cases were also reported Tuesday, one in Miami-Dade, one in Orange County, one in Volusia County and one involving a pregnant woman. The Department of Health did not identify the counties of the cases involving pregnant women.

To date there has been 14 cases involving pregnant women, according to the Department of Health. Zika is particularly dangerous if contracted by pregnant women as the virus can result in deformities in new born babies.

The overall number of Zika cases in Florida has now reached 1,064. Of these cases, 171 were the result of mosquito infection within the state. The other cases involved people who were infected overseas and returned to Florida already infected.

When Governor Scott declared Wynwood free of the Zika Virus, the CDC in Atlanta continued to caution pregnant women against travelling to Miami-Dade County, and to take special precaution against being infected by mosquitoes if they do travel to the region. The CDC’s travel precaution continues to be enforced.

 

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