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Bahamian civil aviation authorities ban Galaxy Note 7

THE BAHAMAS – CAA

Bahamian civil aviation authorities have warned passengers that they risk causing a “catastrophic incident” if they seek to evade a ban on travelling with the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 mobile phone by placing it in their checked luggage.

Several countries have banned passengers from having the phones in their possession when boarding flights over concerns of the phone’s fire prone batteries. In a statement, the Department of Civil Aviation said it has instituted a ban on air travel in The Bahamas on all Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphone devices, effective Monday October 17, 2016.

It said if passengers attempt to travel by air with their Samsung Galaxy Note7 devices, they will be denied boarding.
“Passengers who attempt to evade the ban by packing their phone in checked luggage are increasing the risk of a catastrophic incident.  Anyone violating the ban may be subject to criminal prosecution, in addition to fines.”

Guyana and U.S implement Foreign Accounts Tax Compliance

GUYANA  – FATCA

Guyana has signed an agreement with the United States to implement the Foreign Accounts Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) – providing a “significant step” in the fight against offshore tax evasion.

The agreement was signed by US Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway and Finance Minister, Winston Jordan .

Under the US FATCA legislation, Washington demands that foreign banks provide information to America’s Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on any customer deemed a “US person” if they have more than US$50,000.

Washington says the legislation aims to crack down on tax dodgers who hide hundreds of millions of US dollars in offshore accounts annually in an effort to avoid paying taxes.

 

 

This day in History: US Olympic committee suspends two black athletes

On this day in Caribbean history, October 18, 1968, the US Olympic Committee suspends two black athletes, for giving a black-power salute as a protest at a victory ceremony in Mexico City.

The 1968 Olympics Black Power salute was a political demonstration conducted by African-American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos during their medal ceremony at the 1968 Summer Olympics in the Olympic Stadium in Mexico City. After having won gold and bronze medals, respectively, in the 200 meter running event, they turned on the podium to face their flags, and to hear the American national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner”. Each athlete raised a black-gloved fist, and kept them raised until the anthem had finished. In addition, Smith, Carlos, and Australian silver medalist Peter Norman all wore human rights badges on their jackets. In his autobiography, Silent Gesture, Smith stated that the gesture was not a “Black Power” salute, but a “human rights salute”. The event is regarded as one of the most overtly political statements in the history of the modern Olympic Games.

Smith and Carlos were largely ostracized by the US sporting establishment and they were subject to criticism. The Time magazine on 25 October 1968 wrote: “”Faster, Higher, Stronger” is the motto of the Olympic Games. “Angrier, nastier, uglier” better describes the scene in Mexico City last week.” Back home, both Smith and Carlos were subject to abuse and they and their families received death threats.

Smith continued in athletics, playing in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals before becoming an assistant professor of physical education at Oberlin College. In 1995, he helped coach the US team at the World Indoor Championships at Barcelona. In 1999 he was awarded the California Black Sportsman of the Millennium Award. He is now a public speaker.

Carlos’ career followed a similar path. He tied the 100 yard dash world record the following year. Carlos also tried professional football, was a 15th round selection in the 1970 NFL Draft, but a knee injury curtailed his tryout with the Philadelphia Eagles. He then went on to the Canadian Football Leaguewhere he played one season for the Montreal Alouettes.[20] He fell upon hard times in the late 1970s. In 1977, his ex-wife committed suicide, leading him to a period of depression. In 1982, Carlos was employed by the Organizing Committee for the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles to promote the games and act as liaison with the city’s black community. In 1985, he became a track and field coach at Palm Springs High School. As of 2012, Carlos works as a counselor at the school.

Bolt announces date of retirement

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, October 17th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW 90.

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

Here’s a look at our top stories:

The city of Lauderdale Lakes, Westgate neighborhood invites all business owners and residents to the candidate’s forum and mayoral debate. The event will be held this Friday at the City of Lauderdale Lakes multipurpose building. Doors open at 6:30p.m. Questions from the audience are encouraged.

Yesterday, Orlando Jerk Fest celebrated at the Central Florida Fairgrounds with legends like Marcia Griffiths, Maxi Priest, and the energetic Elephant man. Along with the great music was a variety of jerk flavored foods and Caribbean inspired drinks. This year the Culture festival featured the first Soca artist, Lyrical, with his chart topper Cloud 9.

In the spirit of Halloween, Boo”-Ville at the Miramar Town Center is back for all residents and friends. This year the event will be held on Friday, October 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. It is a free event open to all ages and is a safe environment for fun Halloween night. Come dressed in your best costumes and enjoy candy stations, photo booths and magic shows.

In sports:

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers defeated Puerto Rico FC 2-0 at the Central Broward Stadium on Saturday night adding three points to their combined North American Soccer League standings. With 38 points they are now tied for fourth, and final spot in the playoffs with the Rayo OKC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies respectively.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

On Friday, Jamaica’s sprint champion Usain Bolt said he will run his last race in Jamaica during June’s Racers Grand Prix before retiring from competition. The 30-year-old said he plans to retire from the sport after the August World Championships in London.

For today’s weather forecast:

Scattered Storms in Broward County with a high 85 of and a low of 74. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 83 and a low of 78.

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.

What every new driver needs to know about tires

What every new driver needs to know about tires

When you get behind the wheel, some actions come automatically, without thinking, such as checking your fuel gauge, using your turn signal and snapping on your seat belt.

But even the most experienced drivers fail to follow this key habit that every driver should practice: They don’t check their tires.

If you miss the warning signs that your tires need air, repairs or replacement, you could end up with a tire blowout as your car zooms down the highway. This can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and, ultimately, an accident. According to a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 12 percent of crashes involving inexperienced drivers are caused by tire-related issues.

So as a new driver, you have an opportunity to start a new habit right away. Check your tires once a month, and schedule a reminder on your phone. It’s worthwhile to take a few moments to pay attention to your tires. Otherwise, if you don’t, your tires will one day force the issue.

If any of these tasks on this checklist are unfamiliar to you, have a trusted family member or friend show you how. Before long, these steps will be almost as effortless as checking the fuel gauge!

Inflation: Learn how to check tire pressure with the help of a simple, inexpensive tool that fits right in your glove box: a tire pressure gauge. First, look in your jamb of the driver’s side door for the PSI number, which means pounds per square inch. This tells you how much air your tires need. Remove the cap from the valve stem of your tire and apply the pressure gauge to find out how much air is in your tires. If you need to top them off, find a nearby service station, hopefully one that offers free air!

Wear: Get down and examine each tire, front, back and sides, and use the penny test to check for excessive wear. You accomplish this by placing the coin in the tread with Lincoln’s head pointing downward. If you can see the top of his head, your treads are too worn down to adequately grip the road and it is time for replacement.

Debris: Check your treads for any debris, such as rocks or nails. If you think one of your tires is punctured, yet you don’t hear any hissing, place some liquid soap on the suspected area. If a bubble arises, that’s a sign of a puncture and it should brought in.

Bulges: If you see a “bubble” or a bulge in the sidewalls, that is a sign of distress and your tire in danger of failing. Bring it in as soon a possible. This is usually caused by striking a curb or a pothole or some other debris on the road. If you should accidentally hit something, it’s a good idea to pull over to a safe place and examine the tires for signs of damage. If you don’t see anything, be sure you check again the next time before you get behind the wheel.

Rotation: Front tires will wear more quickly than the rear, thanks to the heavy weight of the engine. That’s why it’s recommended that you rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Luckily, this can be done very easily during an oil change. All you have to do is ask.

Equipment: Is your spare tire in the trunk of your car, along with all the other necessary tools? Don’t forget to check the tire pressure of your spare, as well. If you are in a situation where you can’t change your own tire, know who you would call, and whether you have the resources to cover the costs. Now that winter is coming, it’s a good idea to be prepared with other supplies to keep you safe in case you are stopped, such as a winter kit and a snow shovel.

Your tires are the only things between your car and the road. But investing a few minutes into this monthly safety check is an important step in reducing your risk in getting into a crash. To learn more about being safe on the road, check out Michelin’s Beyond the Driving Test at www.beyondthedrivingtest.com.

JN Money Transfer aids in Haiti relief

JN Money Transfer waives remittance fees to help in Haiti’s recovery from Matthew

 JN Money Services, has announced that in an effort to bring relief to the people of Haiti who were devastated by the recent impact of Hurricane Matthew, the company has waived all fees on remittances being sent to that country. Haiti, is recovering from recover from the flooding and dislocations related to the storm which left more than 1000 persons dead and others missing.

Persons living in Haiti can access funds sent to them from any of the over 300 UniTransfer locations across the country.

“Whenever there is a disaster, remittances to the affected country normally increase; and, as many persons outside of Haiti seek to send funds to their relatives and friends, we have taken the decision to waive all remittance fees. This will result in persons being better able to assist their loved ones to get back on their feet,” said Horace Hines, Acting General Manager, JN Money Services.

The World Bank estimates that remittances to Haiti, with a population of about 10 million persons, form a significant portion of its Gross Domestic Product.

JN Money Services Limited, with head office based in Kingston, Jamaica, markets its services under the JN Money Transfer brand, with operations in the United Kingdom, United States of America, including offices in Lauderdale Lakes, South Florida, Canada, Ghana, the Philippines and across the Caribbean.

The company began operating in Haiti last year, an addition to its established network across the Caribbean, with operations in Guyana, The Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, as well as, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Michigan Barbershop rewards young readers with haircut discount

Parents in Michigan have a reason to be a whole lot happier with a special discount as a way to get kids to practice their reading skills. However, it doesn’t stop there, the kids also get quizzed on what they read. Ryan Griffin, the barber who created the program at The Fuller Cut barbershop said “It’s not just about reading, but also about comprehension.” Griffin, 44, said he was inspired to offer this deal to his younger clients while reading an article about another barbershop incorporating the same concept.

Griffin incorporates a sense of self in the books he offers his clients to read by providing books that reflect his largely African-American clientele. His books include “Chocolate Me,” and “Big Hair Don’t Care”. He mentions that many of the kids start out shy and are often intimidated to read out loud, however, it doesn’t stop Griffin from encouraging them to read. The staff will correct the ‘youngins’  along the way with any words they don’t know how to say, and says he has seen lots of improvement from his readers. “You may have a kid that never wanted to read, and now all of a sudden the kid will come in and read,” he said. Although the discount is great for the parents, Griffin says that it’s a simple thing. It’s about giving back to the community and paying it forward through education.

Bolt’s last race in Jamaica will be June 2017

Bolt’s last race in Jamaica will be June 2017

Jamaica’s legendary Olympian and the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt is definitely retiring. Last week in an interview on TVJ morning program “Smile Jamaica” he said his last race in Jamaica will be next June at the Racers Grand Prix at the Jamaica’s National Stadium. On the program he said the Racers Grand Prix “will be my last race in Jamaica. It will be the last time I run in Jamaica.”

Bolt also confirmed, what he already indicated that his last major meet at the World Championships in London next August 5 -13. Reports from London that already tickets for the men’s 100 and 200 meters, races that Bolt has set individual world records and won gold medals in three consecutive Olympics,  and the 4 x 100 relay in which he and his team members have won Gold medals in successive Olympics and World Championships are already been sold out in anticipation of Bolt’s performance. “I am definitely going to retire after the World Championships in London,” he told the hosts on the TV program.

Nugent Walker, Bolt’s executive manager said Bolt is looking forward to a “special sign-off” before his Jamaicans fans, and the day he performs will be a very important day for him. Walker also indicated Bolt has already qualified for the World Championships in London owing to the fact that he is the World Championship defending champion in the 100 and 200 meters.

Bolt and other members of Jamaica’s Olympic team who excelled at the Rio Olympics last August were honored by the Jamaican government at a special function on Saturday night.

Jamaica: National Heroes Day

JAMAICA

Jamaica is observing National Heroes Day Monday with the politicians urging citizens to reminisce on the significance of the occasion.

“Now more than ever we need to rediscover the things which bind us together. Our National Heroes, through their fixity of purpose, common vision of liberation and focused determination, summon us to find common cause,” said Prime Minister Andrew Holness in a message to mark the occasion.

He said while to the country’s National Heroes, freedom was the essence of humanity “there are things which constrain our freedom and which, therefore, militate against the work of our Heroes.”

“Crime constrains our freedom. The right to life is the most basic freedom. As a society, we have to deeply embed the concept of the sanctity of life.”

Holness said –   “when we take the lives of our own brothers and sisters, essentially taking over from our slave-masters in destroying lives, we are dishonoring our Heroes.”

In her message, Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller said National Heroes Day provides an opportunity for Jamaicans to reflect on their strength, great courage and perseverance.

She said the ongoing challenge now is to build a society and an economy that provide for all Jamaicans the necessary social and material benefits.

“These include safety, social protection, high quality education, access to health care, home ownership and decent as well as rewarding work. These achievements will motivate our Jamaican youth, many of whom are frustrated with their circumstances.

Meanwhile, five Jamaicans will be conferred with the nation’s fifth-highest honour — the Order of Jamaica (OJ) on Monday.

They include Ambassador Anthony Johnson for distinguished national service in the public and private sectors, and particularly his contribution to the foreign service; former Member of Parliament and Jamaica Labour Party stalwart Dr Kenneth Baugh for distinguished service to the Jamaican Parliament as well as his work in the field of medicine; Professor Denise Eldemire-Shearer for outstanding advocacy for senior citizens; Professor Renn Holness for outstanding work in neurosurgery; and Dr David Wayne Boxer, for distinguished contribution to the National Gallery of Jamaica and the arts.

The OJ is considered the equivalent of a British knighthood, and members of the order are styled “The Honourable”.

 

Haiti elections to be held November 20

HAITI

The long delayed presidential and legislative elections in Haiti will be held on November 20 following yet another setback due to the destruction caused by Hurricane Matthew. On Friday, the Provisional Election Council said the second round of elections will be held on January 29.

Haiti’s elections had been scheduled for last week. The country’s previous elections, in 2015, were canceled because of violence and fraud, leaving Haiti in political limbo.

Since President Michel Martelly, demitted office in February – parliament elected Jocelerme Privert as interim president, but his 120-day mandate expired in June.

Haiti was forced to postpone the scheduled second round of elections in January amid protests after the frontrunner Jude Celestin said he would not campaign until government officials addressed fraud allegations resulting from the October 25 poll last year.

Celestin welcomed the latest postponement after the hurricane saying “getting assistance to the population is more important than elections right now.

“It’s difficult to go ask people to go vote, given what we’re dealing with right now. But elections are important. I hope that the CEP announces a new date as soon as possible so that regardless of the conditions, there is a new president who takes office in Haiti on February 7.”

The four main challengers for the post of president are Jean-Henri Céant, Jovenel Moise, Moïse Jean-Charles and Celestin

This Day in History: Ziggy Marley was born

On this day in Caribbean history, October 17, 1968, David “Ziggy” Marley, Jamaican musician, leader of the band, and the son of legend Bob Marley, was born.

In the earliest known record of his musical career, David Marley performed as part of a singing group called The Seven Do Bees, made up of him and his classmates, and wherein he was given the stage name “Freddie Dic”. The moniker never stuck, however, and instead David went on to become known as “Ziggy”, a nickname given to him by his father Bob Marley, meaning ‘little spliff’. But Ziggy states the following to Melody Maker Magazine in 1988: “Me name David but me big Bowie Fan. So at the time of the ‘Ziggy Stardust’ album, me call meself Ziggy and now everyone do.”

During the late 70s, Ziggy could also be seen alongside his brother Stephen at some of their father’s larger concerts around Jamaica and abroad. In 1978, the duo appeared on stage at the One Love Peace Concert in Kingston, and the following year at Reggae Sunsplash II in Montego Bay.

Also in 1979, Ziggy and his siblings Sharon, Cedella and Stephen formed the Melody Makers – named after the British weekly pop/rock music newspaper, Melody Maker – and made their recording debut with “Children Playing in the Streets”. The track was written for them by their father, who had composed the song four years earlier for them and wanted to share this gift with children around the world. All royalties from the single were pledged to the United Nations, to aid its efforts during the International Year of the Child.

Later that year, the Melody Makers made their on-stage debut as a group on 23 September 1979, performing on the same bill as their father for the first and only time at the ‘Roots Rock Reggae’ two-day concert series in Kingston’s National Arena. Ziggy was 11 years old at the time. Notable other early moments in Ziggy’s musical history include a performance with Stephen at their father’s funeral in 1981, and later that year the Melody Makers released their second single, “What A Plot”, under the family’s Tuff Gong record label.

After Bob Marley’s passing, Ziggy began performing in his place alongside the Wailers at various shows around Jamaica, and in 1984 the group went on tour in support of the year’s Bob Marley ’Legend’ compilation album release.

FITCE Returns to Broward County

FITCE Returns to Broward County

Mayor Martin David Kiar and the Broward County Board of Commissioners would like to invite you to register for the 2016 Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE), the largest international trade and cultural event of the year sponsored by Broward County Government and organized by the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development.

The FITCE 2016 will be held over two days, next week Wednesday and Thursday, October 19-20 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale. The event is free, however there are limited tickets available and an RSVP is required.

In attendance will be over 150 international delegates, 350 local businesses, multi-cultural global trade representatives from over 30 countries and government leaders from around the globe. The goal of FITCE is to expand South Florida’s position as a center for international trade, fuel economic growth and promote cultural exchange.

The event will feature two days of panels, workshops, networking and special events focusing on exploration of new economic opportunities around the world with international businesses, government officials, consuls general, bi-national chambers of commerce & key speakers from over 30 countries from around the globe! Confirmed Guests of Honor include the Honorable Erwin Contreras, Minister of International Trade and Petroleum for Belize, the Honorable Oliver Joseph, Minister of Economic Development for Grenada, the Honorable Derrick Simmons, Commissioner of Tourism for the Island of St Eustatius, Mr. Noel K. Tshiani Muadiamvita, 2016 Presidential Candidate for the Democratic Republic of Congo and Renowned International Economist, and Ambassador Erwin Laroche, Secretary General for CARICOM

International delegations, consulates, trade commissions, and bi-national chambers who would like to receive a complimentary table to exhibit at the World Expo can contact Paola Isaac Baraya at 954-357-7894.

Belize Independence Feature

Michael D Young

Born in: Belize, C.A.

Lives in: Miramar, FL

Profession: Emissary of State (FL); International Strategist/Agent & Consultant

Your life’s passion?

To be an actual proponent and contributor to the economic and educational empowerment of my people and country, through viable businesses and direct investments; to continue to be a benefactor to my family, namely my life-partner wife, kids, family clan, & dearest friends. My motto is: God, Family, Business & Country (in that order).

 

What do you miss most about home?

The People. Apart from Belize’s natural beauty and of course we can’t forget about “the food!” … the genuine-warmth & bless-ed love of the ones grown up with, friends and family alike, including the ones you get to know along the way is what makes returning home so sweet every time. We are a true compact melting pot, with almost seven distinct cultures, all, for the most part, existing harmoniously.

 

What makes you a proud Belizean?

My homeland country’s uniqueness. Belize is what we patriots at times refer to as, with bias of course, “the best of both worlds.” Belize is simultaneously a part of the Central American Block, as well as the Greater Caribbean Community, while being the only country within the former (C.A.) i.e., where English is the official language, coupled with the fact that the majority of its population are of Hispanic or Latin descent.

 

Petrotrin to review security after body found

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Trinidad and Tobago’s state owned oil company, Petrotrin, has started to review security operations following the sighting of a body within the oil tank at the Point Fortin on the weekend.

On Thursday, Petrotrin confirmed reports that Curtis Pierre, a resident of Point Fortin entered the tank on Saturday.

“Petrotrin wishes to confirm the sighting of a body within the oil tank in its tank farm operations …..this development follows an exercise to extract the contents of the tank, which began on Sunday.

The company says it is continuing the extraction exercise to retrieve the body and for it to be identified by the relevant authorities.

Concerning the security arrangements, the company says it will place razor wire at the top of a 12 foot security fence; place signage indicting that the facility is for authorized personnel only; will construct a solid brick wall at the northern side of the facility and ensure that there is routine surveillance and patrol by security officers.

According to Petrotrin, further details on security arrangements as well as efforts to recover the body will be released as they become available.

Are you ready for flu season?

High levels of Flu cases reported across the US

Are you ready for flu season?

Fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, sore throat and headache — these are just a few of the common symptoms of seasonal influenza, also known as the flu. While you may think you can weather the storm, the flu can be a major health concern for you and your family, especially for children and the elderly.

The flu is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by influenza viruses that attack the nose, throat and lungs. Unlike many other viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold, flu symptoms vary from mild respiratory illness to severe complications, hospitalization and in some cases death. An average of 200,000 people are hospitalized due to flu complications in the U.S. each year. To reduce illness and potential death resulting from the flu, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages annual vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older.

“Despite strong recommendations for everyone in the U.S. 6 months of age and older to be vaccinated against the flu every year, fewer than half of eligible people did so in the 2014-2015 season. This includes children, the group with the highest incidence during community outbreaks,” said Kim Tran, MS, PharmD, pharmacist, PillPack, Inc. “Even healthy people are at risk — they should be vaccinated to help protect themselves and to prevent transmission to others.”

Due to the variety of factors that can determine a person’s suitability for a vaccine, including age, health and allergies, different flu vaccines are approved for use in different populations of people. In particular, quadrivalent vaccines, which help protect against four strains of the flu, approved for both children and adults aim to broaden flu coverage.

The traditional seasonal influenza vaccine is a trivalent formula consisting of two strains of influenza A viruses and a single strain of influenza B virus. Although there are two very different lineages of B viruses that both circulate during most seasons, experts are limited to choosing only one of the B virus strains for inclusion in the trivalent vaccine. The use of a quadrivalent influenza vaccine may now provide protection against both B lineages, which may provide broader protection against circulating flu viruses. In addition, studies have shown that seasonal flu vaccines made to protect against four flu viruses have a safety profile similar to vaccines made to protect against three viruses.

Most healthy adults may be able to infect other people with the flu beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven days after becoming sick. Some people can even be infected with the flu and spread the virus to others without having any symptoms. While the best way to help prevent the flu is to get a flu shot every year, you should also take everyday precautions against the spread of germs. Wash your hands often with soap and water, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and try to avoid close contact with sick people.

You could protect yourself and your family against the inconvenient and potentially life-threatening complications of the flu by simply getting vaccinated. For additional resources regarding what is best suited for you, please visit www.whatsyourfluplan.com.

Jamaica Government fights for Marcus Garvey

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck
Justice Minister Delroy Chuck.

JAMAICA

The Government of Jamaica is taking steps to expunge the criminal record of National Hero, the Marcus Mosiah Garvey, for an offence, which he reportedly committed in the country.

This was disclosed by Justice Minister, Delroy Chuck, in response to questions raised in Parliament earlier this week.

Chuck said information indicates that Garvey was charged for contempt of court in 1929 after making statements criticising Jamaica’s legal system, which he reportedly described as oppressive.

Chuck said that during preparations by the now defunct People’s Political Party to contest the 1930 Legislative Council Elections, Garvey called for laws to punish judges who acted unfairly.

He was convicted following a two-day trial in September 1929, fined £100 and sentenced to three months’ imprisonment in the St. Catherine District Prison.

Garvey was subsequently released in December of that year.

Garvey received a Royal Pardon in 1984 from late former Governor-General, Sir Florizel Glasspole, at the request of former Prime Minister, Edward Seaga.

“However, this pardon, under Section 91 of the Constitution, affects only the sentence and not the conviction. As such, a statutory pardon is required,” he said.

According to Chuck “the Government was “taking steps to effect same”.

The IMF and Jamaica agree on 3 year arrangement

JAMAICA

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a staff level agreement with Jamaica on a three year “Precautionary Standby Arrangement” (SBA).

The Washington based financial institution says staff level agreement was reached on a new SBA to “support an economic programme aimed at sustaining macroeconomic stability, boosting employment, raising living standards and progressively reducing poverty.”

“The precautionary SBA will be an insurance against unforeseen economic shocks that are beyound the control of Jamaica.”

The IMF says a mission led by Uma Ramakrishnan, visited Kingston during September 21-30 to conduct discussions on a new IMF supported economic programme with the island.

To underscore the “positive outcomes of these discussions,” the IMF said J Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Alejandro Werner, Director of the IMF’s Western Hemispheric Department, issued a joint statement in Kingston on Thursday.
“The IMF team and the Jamaican authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on a new economic program for Jamaica that would be supported by a 36-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with the IMF with access of SDR 1.2 billion (equivalent to 312 percent of quota or about US$1.7 billion),” the statement said.

“If approved by the IMF’s Executive Board, SDR300 million (about US$430 million) would be immediately available,” it added. “Given the Bank of Jamaica’s comfortable foreign reserves position, the Jamaican authorities have indicated their intention to treat the SBA as precautionary, that is, effectively an insurance policy against unforeseen economic shocks that are beyond the control of Jamaica.

MINUSTAH to stay in Haiti through April 2017

HAITI

The United Nations Security Council has agreed to a six month extension of the mandate of the peacekeeping mission in Haiti.

The 15-member Council has passed a resolution allowing for the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) – consisting of 2,370 troops and up to 2,601 police component personnel – to stay in the country through April 15, next year.

The UN said the mandate renewal comes in the wake of the humanitarian emergency caused by the October 4 passage of Hurricane Matthew that killed hundreds of people and caused widespread destruction. It also forced the postponement of the October 9 elections.

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the Category 4 storm had claimed the lives of 473 people, as of October 11, with 75 missing and 339 injured.

 

“Enough is enough” Michelle Obama

“Enough is enough” Michelle Obama

In one of the more passionate, bi-partisan, effective and brilliant speeches of the current presidential election campaign cycle, First Lady Michelle Obama stood up for the rights of women and condemned the demeaning sexist remarks made by Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in a video released last week.

Speaking at a Clinton campaign rally in New Hampshire on Thursday, referring to Trumps comment on being privileged to kiss and grope women without their consent, nut never calling his name, Mrs. Obama said, “This is not something that we can ignore.  It’s not something we can just sweep under the rug as just another disturbing footnote in a sad election season.  Because this was not just a “lewd conversation.”  This wasn’t just locker-room banter.  This was a powerful individual speaking freely and openly about sexually predatory behavior, and actually bragging about kissing and groping women, using language so obscene that many of us were worried about our children hearing it when we turn on the TV.”

Turning to the negative impact that Trump’s remarks has on women, the first lady said she was concerned and feels it personally, especially “The shameful comments about our bodies.  The disrespect of our ambitions and intellect.  The belief that you can do anything you want to a woman. It is cruel.  It’s frightening.  And the truth is, it hurts……and I know it’s a campaign, but this isn’t about politics.  It’s about basic human decency.  It’s about right and wrong.  And we simply cannot endure this, or expose our children to this any longer — not for another minute, and let alone for four years.   Now is the time for all of us to stand up and say enough is enough.  This has got to stop right now.”

Since Mrs. Obama’s speech the response has been electrifying in the Caribbean-American community and in the Caribbean region. Social media has been viral with tweets and Facebook messages with people arriving at the consensus that the speech could “be the highlight of the presidential campaign,” and the “turning point of the campaign.”

In a tweet from Jamaica, attorney Carole Tenn, summarized what many Caribbean-Americans expressed on hearing Mrs. Obama’s speech, “Michele just restored my faith in American politics. Her presence on the campaign should help America elect Hillary.”

 

Nova Southeast University student, Gabbie Turner said  listening to the speech she “cast off the doubts” about voting in the general elections and now plans to vote as soon as the polls open on October 24, the first day of early voting. Turner, says she and a group of seven young men and women heard the speech and all have decided to go out and vote. “I agree with Mrs. Obama ‘enough is enough’ with this dark, depressing election cycle, and her speech made us recognize the importance of voting against bigotry and against a candidate who disrespects and demean women.”

 

So effective was Mrs. Obama speech that on Friday  morning, less than 24-hour after the speech, the Clinton campaign began airing an ad featuring Mrs. Obama and excerpts of her speech.

 

 

 

Residential rental rates continues to rise in Broward County

Report shows average renter in much of U.S. needs $100,000 salary

Residential rental rates continues to rise in Broward County

According to a report from the Florida brokerage company, Marcus & Millichap, the combination of declining residential construction and the demands especially from residents under 35 have driven rental rates in Broward County by an average of 8 percent, or $1,614 monthly.

The report indicated with the median price for a three-bedroom house now average some $293, 200, home ownership is out of reach for many residents, forcing them to rent. The demand, fueled by more young people entering the housing market preferring to rent than purchase a home, continues to drive up the cost of rent.

The report said the demand for rental apartments could be eased until sometime in 2018. That is the time table given for the completion of some 7, 300 apartments currently under construction in Broward County. Marcus & Millichap predict that even with those apartments coming on stream, it will not be sufficient to meet the rental demand and the cost of residential rental will continue to rise.

The high demand for residential rental properties also prevails in Miami-Dade pushing up the cost in that county.

Trinidad

Trinidad government confirms negotiations with “preferred bidder” for PETROTRIN oil refinery

TRINIDAD

Trinidad and Tobago’s state owned oil company, Petrotrin, has started to review security operations following the sighting of a body within the oil tank at the Point Fortin on the weekend.

On Thursday, Petrotrin confirmed reports that Curtis Pierre, a resident of Point Fortin entered the tank on Saturday.

“Petrotrin wishes to confirm the sighting of a body within the oil tank in its tank farm operations …..this development follows an exercise to extract the contents of the tank, which began on Sunday.

The company says it is continuing the extraction exercise to retrieve the body and for it to be identified by the relevant authorities.

Concerning the security arrangements, the company says it will place razor wire at the top of a 12 foot security fence; place signage indicting that the facility is for authorized personnel only; will construct a solid brick wall at the northern side of the facility and ensure that there is routine surveillance and patrol by security officers.

According to Petrotrin, further details on security arrangements as well as efforts to recover the body will be released as they become available.

An easy way to save on your healthcare in 2017

An easy way to save on your healthcare in 2017

If you’re like most people, there are a few times a year when you sit down to review your expenses – your cable bill, entertainment expenses and grocery receipts, for example – and try to figure out where you and your family can save money.

One item you should consider is your healthcare costs in 2017. Since the fall season marks the beginning of the annual open enrollment period for employees, now is the perfect time to sign up for a new health benefit plan or make changes to your current plan.

Offered as part of those benefits, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are two simple ways for people to save money in the New Year. An FSA, which is provided by your employer, allows you to save funds for eligible healthcare expenses. An HSA – which you can obtain on your own or through your employer – is a tax-advantaged savings account that allows you to set aside money to cover medical expenses throughout your lifetime.

A major advantage of both accounts is that individuals may use the full amount of their pre-tax dollars toward the care you and your family may need; employees who enroll in an FSA can contribute a portion of their salary pre-tax to pay for qualified medical or dependent care expenses, while an HSA helps individuals with qualifying high-deductible health plans pay for current and future medical expenses.

The number of HSA accounts has risen to 18.2 million in 2016, a 25 percent increase since 2015, according to Devenir Research. In addition, according to the 2016 Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account Consumer Research study commissioned by Visa and conducted by C+R Research, 90 percent of FSA users agree that saving money, since contributions are pre-tax, tops their list of reasons for having an FSA. In fact, 40 percent of FSA users claim they would cut back on their medical expenses if they didn’t have an FSA.

The study also finds that an FSA with no carryover option represents an important barrier to adoption amongst employees, who fear losing their unused dollars at the end of the plan year. 60 percent of non-FSA users noted they would sign up for this benefit if their employer offered the option to carryover up to $500 of their unused health FSA balances remaining at the end of the plan year.

One of the most convenient ways to access funds in an HSA or FSA is with a Visa Healthcare Card, which allows employees to use funds in their HSA or FSA to pay for qualified medical expenses wherever Visa debit cards are accepted, making it easy to pay for expenses such as:

*Copays and deductibles

*Prescriptions

*Dentist visits: Cleanings, orthodontia, dentures

*Exams: Physicals, dermatologist

*Vision care, including exams, new glasses, LASIK

*Hearing exams and aids

*Medical equipment such as blood pressure monitors, thermometers

*Smoking cessation programs

For added convenience, most pharmacies, grocery stores and other retailers that sell healthcare products have the capability to distinguish between covered items and non-covered items when you pay for them, so you don’t have to wonder whether something is covered or not.

By using a Visa Healthcare Card at these locations, you no longer have to pay out-of-pocket and then submit receipts to be reimbursed for your medical expenses, saving you time and money!

There’s a reason why 78 percent of FSA users surveyed report having an FSA card and why 52 percent of HSA owners surveyed say they use a debit card linked to their HSA to pay for their medical expenses, as the 2016 Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account Consumer Research study commissioned by Visa and conducted by C+R Research found. As you review your options this open enrollment season, ask your employer if they offer an HSA or FSA with a Visa Healthcare Card to provide easy access to your funds. To learn more, visit www.visahealthcare.com.

National Weekly October 13, 2016

Category 3 storm, Nicole slams into Bermuda today

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, October 14th, 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:

According to a report from the Florida brokerage company, Marcus & Millichap, residential rates continues to rise in Broward County. The company says the combination of declining residential construction and demands, especially from millennials, has driven rental rates by an average of 8 percent, or $1,614 monthly.

In a push to offer aid to Hurricane battered Haiti, JN Money Transfer has already begun to waive all fees on money being sent to the Caribbean nation. The company says this will result in persons being better able to assist their loved ones to get back on their feet.

Florida International Trade and Culture Expo is getting ready to close registration as they are already at the full capacity of 600 attendees. If you have not registered yet and would like to participate in this free event with a chance to meet representatives from 37 countries, please do so today because registration will close this afternoon.

In sports:

In the North American soccer league, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers will play against Puerto Rico FC tonight kicking off at 7. As of today, Puerto Rico FC is unbeaten in seven consecutive games from September 3 and our Strikers sit just three points out of the final NASL postseason spot after Wednesday’s 1-0 win. The match will be held at the Central Broward Stadium.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Hurricane Nicole, slammed into Bermuda today as a Category 3 storm – the strongest to hit the island since Hurricane Fabian in 2003. The Miami based National Hurricane Centre, says Nicole hit, just shy of a Category four storm. Late Wednesday, the island came to a virtual shutdown as the hurricane bore down on the island ahead.

 For today’s weather forecast:

Partly cloudy in Broward County with a high 86 of and a low of 75. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 84 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: Marcia Barrett of Boney M. was born

On this day in Caribbean history, October 14, 1948, Marcia Barrett, one of the original singers with the vocal group, Boney M. was born in St Catherine, Jamaica.

In 1971, she signed to Metronome Records and made her first record, “Could Be Love”, written by Drafi Deutscher. It sold poorly but she kept touring with cover songs such as “Son of a Preacher Man”, “Oh Happy Day”, and “Big Spender”.

In 1975, she joined Boney M. a group of models and dancers to make discothèque and television performances of “Baby Do You Wanna Bump”, a song recorded by the record producer, Frank Farian. The single sold in the Benelux countries. When singer Claudja Barry left in early 1976, Barrett suggested a fellow Jamaican, Liz Mitchell, as replacement. Mitchell happened to be a singer and Farian tried her and Barrett for a follow-up. The recording was “Daddy Cool” and Boney M.’s first album Take the Heat Off Me, in 1976. After an appearance on the German television programme, Musikladen in September, the group was in the charts all over Europe, and a series of hit singles and albums followed over the next decade.

Barrett made her second album, Come into My Life, in 2005. It included a cover of “Hey Joe”, a new version of “Belfast”, as well as original recordings written by her and her husband Marcus. in addition a cover of Fleetwood Mac’s instrumental “Albatross”, for which Barrett had been allowed to add her own lyrics by its composer Peter Green, and the song “Rip It Up” were also part of the track listing. She now tours with her own version of Boney M. She reunited with Liz Mitchell and Frank Farian at the London and Berlin premières of the Daddy Cool musical, although she did not sing on the new recording “A Moment of Love”, added to the group’s compilation The Magic of Boney M.. In October 2007, she turned down a song for the album Disco 2008, a project by UK music producer Ian Levine. In October, she and her Boney M. were invited by President Mikhail Saakashvili to perform in South Ossetia.

On 8 March 2008, Barrett performed with her band at the palace grounds in Bangalore, India as “Boney M. featuring Marcia Barrett”. In 2009, she started Xoah Records. The first release on the label was a remix of her Survival track “Seeing Is Believing”, released on 6 March 2009, followed by “I Don’t Know Why”. While her third solo album Strange Rumours had been announced to follow, the album was put on hold when she was hit by another bout of cancer.

 

 

 

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