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Caribbean Tourism Energy Agreement

Caribbean Tourism Energy Agreement

The United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Caribbean Clean Energy Programme (CARCEP) has signed a collaborative agreement with the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) in what is described as a landmark move to bolster energy efficiency in the Caribbean’s hotel sector.

The hotel sector is considered the largest electricity consumer sector in the region.

On the weekend, CARCEP said the agreement, which was signed during the official ceremony of the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) in Barbados, defines the joint actions to be taken to “effectively address the sector’s needs primarily in the areas of energy policy reform, research and capacity development.”

This initiative is largely directed at beneficiary countries under USAID CARCEP’s mandate – Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, said CARCEP in a statement.

It said hotel owners in these islands will be equipped with access to technical tools, training and other resources to help them understand and adopt energy efficiency best-practices to reduce their energy consumption.

 

Hang your Bra for a cause

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The Miami Urban Contemporary Experience presents the Hang Your Bra for the Cause Exhibition opening reception on Wednesday, October 5th, from 3p.m. to 9p.m. Hang your Bra for the cause is presented in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month at the Little Haiti Cultural Center in Miami. Event is free and open to the public.

The Hang Your Bra Exhibition reception features six visual artists: Carla Jamieson, Le’ Adonis Ferguson, Anthony Lumpkin, Nik Rye, Victoria Miessler, and Giselle Markers.  A live musical performance by the Spread Love Gang will accompany key note speaker and survivor Carla Hill who will share her challenges and triumphs during her journey. Guests are invited to BYOB (Bring Your Own Bra) to decorate in honor of a survivor or a warrior who has passed on due to Breast Cancer. All bra’s will be integrated into the honoring wall at the Hang Your Bra Exhibition. Lite bites will be available for sale along with the complimentary wine that will be provided.

The Hang Your Bra Exhibition celebrates women’s rights and brings awareness to societal triumphs and challenges women face for having breasts (e.g. breast cancer survival and loss, acceptance and restriction of nursing in public, objectification of breast as sexual pleasure, restrictive garments that pronounce or hide a women’s breast). The desire and rejection of breast as an identifier of femininity.

Exhibition is made possible by the City of Miami, Commissioner Keon Hardemon, Little Haiti Cultural Center, MUCE, Breastless Beauty, and Roots Collective. For more details about MUCE, please contact 305.890.2121 or email here.

 

No Microcephaly in Jamaican born babies

Zika Virus – Microcephaly

Jamaica’s Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton says he has not received any report of babies being born in Jamaica with microcephaly as a result of the mosquito-borne Zika virus. According to Tufton, there are more than 500 pregnant women on record who have contracted the virus, but he is yet to be notified that any of those cases have resulted in microcephaly.

He added that the Ministry of Health remains very transparent about the possibility of babies being born with the disease, noting that if and when any report is confirmed, details will be made available to the public.

He said the government has taken a proactive position on the matter and has established a fund to address the possibility of babies being born with microcephaly.

“We have put in place J$50 million to provide support, such as early stimulation and psychosocial counseling for the mothers. We have also provided training in the respective parishes in certain of the health facilities to deal with those cases, once they occur,” Tufton said.

Microcephaly is a birth defect where a baby’s head is noticeably smaller than the average size of babies of the same sex and age. Babies with microcephaly often have smaller brains that might not have developed properly.

 

Marcus Garvey earns place at the Smithsonian Museum of African American History

A look at some of the top stories making the news today Wednesday, October 3rd, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW 90, I’m Suzette Speaks.
Today’s news is brought to you by The Goldson Spine and Rehabilitation Center, who reminds you, “After a car accident, Call, Goldson Spine.

 

Here’s a look at our top stories:
Although the petition for the post-humous exoneration of the right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey, did not meet the necessary signature requirements to be reviewed by US President Barack Obama, he will have a spot in the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C. The museum is the first national museum fully dedicated to the African American experience. Jamaican born, Marcus Garvey was arguably one of the most prolific leaders of the early twentieth century and is famously known for his “Back to Africa” movement, and for founding the Universal Negro Improvement Association

Lauderdale Lakes City commissioners approved City Manager Kelvin Baker’s resignation, at a special meeting Friday and appointed Public Works Director Phil Alleyne as acting manager. Commissioner Gloria Lewis’ motion to accept the resignation immediately passed on a 3 to 2 vote. Baker ended his term saying that he is just not a fit for the city and will allow it to find someone who is.

The International Reggae and World Music Awards (or I-Rama) was held last night at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts and included a star studded red carpet. In attendance was the Lifetime Achievement award recipient, the Cables, as well asGramps Morgan from Morgan Heritage and WAVS Radio host award recipient Mikey B. The event showcased performances from various groups from across the Caribbean including Dancehall United Nations from Jamaica, and X-Tassy from Haiti.

In sports:
After their victory over Cuba in the under 17 Caribbean Cup finals, the back-to-back champs, Haiti, were received at the National Palace by President Jocelerme Privert last Friday. The Head of State praised the performance of the young Haitian footballers and officials of the Haitian Football Federation.

Now, here’s what’s trending:
The US National Hurricane Center is tracking Category 4 Hurricane Matthew as it makes its way through the Caribbean sea. Matthew is drifting very slowly northward towards Jamaica, Haiti and Cuba.  U.S. Hurricane forecasters say it is too early to determine if Matthew will directly impact the U.S. and are predicting rainfall totals between 10 and 15 inches in Jamaica, with some areas in both Haiti and Jamaica getting as much as 25 inches.

For today’s weather forecast:
Scattered Storms in Broward County with a high of 84 and a low of 76. Rain in Miami-Dade, with a high of 84 and a low of 78. For more information and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.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 The Goldson Spine and Rehabilitation Center, who reminds you, “After a car accident, Call, Goldson Spine.
You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Jahlisa H.

Marley nephew shines light on CRPS in new documentary

CRPS, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Inspired by the illness of his mother Constance Marley, the sister of the late Reggae legend Bob Marley, Charles saw this dire need and wanted to contribute to getting that need filled. Charles has talked to many, heard scores of stories and researched the condition; with this knowledge, his heart was moved to get involved and become an advocate for the condition through the love of his mother and the heartfelt for the countless others suffering.

This moving piece takes us on a journey that will impact the perspective of how we view healthcare and the caregivers of those suffering daily. We walk with Charles as he helps his mother through her own treatment and life changes. We will also meet others fighting to stay alive from this deadly disease. We will work to allow the film to have a voice on some of the biggest television platforms that Charles has worked with, including CNN, Dr. Oz, The Today Show and scores more around the globe!

We will fight to help this project move the health care system to figure out ways to help those who need the funding or the health care coverage to get the needed treatment to allow them to live.  We will expose what at times seems like Guinea pig-type of treatments that at times can do more harm than good. This is a story that needs to be told and this documentary will open the eyes of many around the world that never knew of this condition and bring hope to those with CRPS.

Charles Mattocks is best known as a celebrity chef, Emmy-award nominated actor, best-selling author,  film and television producer, as well as, a world dIabetes advocate. Charles is currently editing a film on diabetes entitled “The Diabetic You.” Being a type 2 diabetic, Charles has strived to become a global advocate for diabetes and make a change in health care. Moved by his own struggles to help people with diabetes around the world, Charles has put his all into creating films that can help express and bring awareness to the plight and fight of people with conditions that are close to his heart.

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This Day in History: 1780 Hurricane hits Jamaica

On this day in history, October 3, 1780, Jamaica was hit with one of the deadliest Atlantic hurricane season in recorded history.

Savanna-la-Mar, also known as Sav-la-Mar, is a coastal town and capital of Westmoreland Parish, Jamaica. The town contained an 18th-century fort constructed for colonial defence against pirates in the Caribbean.

In 1780, the town was completely destroyed by a powerful hurricane known as the Savanna-la-Mar hurricane. It was rebuilt, as the port was an important part of the Atlantic trade in sugar, slaves and other goods.

On October 2 there was an unusual elevation of the sea, which then broke suddenly in on the town, and on its retreat swept every thing away with it. There were no buildings left standing in the town or in the area for 30 to 40 miles around it. Allegedly, it caused the sea to rise to such a degree that ships were found stranded amongst the trees. On the next day this was succeeded by the worst hurricane they had ever experienced, followed by an earthquake, which almost totally demolished every building in the parishes of Westmoreland, Hanover, part of St. James and some parts of St. Elizabeth.

Jamaican folklore follows that the devastation of this western town as the work of the runaway slave known as Plato the Wizard, from beyond the grave. Just before his 1780 execution, the renowned obeahman pronounced a curse on Jamaica, predicting that his death would be avenged by a terrible storm set to befall the island before the end of that same year.

Seahawks, Cliff Avril builds schools in Haiti

Seattle Seahawks defensive end, Cliff Avril, born to Haitian parents has returned to the Caribbean nation to break ground on a special project, a school.

This week, as he and his Seahawks teammates prepared to face the New York Jets, his wife, Tia, former teammate Marshawn Lynch, and his cousin, Emmanuel Thalerand, returned to Haiti to officially open the first schoolhouse, which has classrooms for kindergartners and first-graders.

“Your perspective on life is completely different from age 15 to 30, having kids, having a wife, having your values change over time. I had the opportunity to work with an organization called Free the Children that goes to different third-world countries. I met them, they do work in Haiti, and I realized this was the perfect opportunity to do something in Haiti and I’m fortunate to make it happen.” said Avril.

Working closely with the former Seahawks running back’s ‘Beast Mode’ brand, Avril has teamed with the “very supportive” Marshawn Lynch and cornerback Richard Sherman to launch an exclusive line of clothing called #Bricks2Books, which is available for purchase at Lynch’s Beast Mode store in Seattle. The proceeds from the clothing line will, Avril said, “go to helping finish building the school” in Haiti.

The group also handed out backpacks, donated school supplies for the classrooms, and purchased shoes and uniforms for the kindergarten students.

“I told the people in the community we’re committed. Hopefully by April (the second building) is finished and we can move more kids,” he said. “A lot of these kids walk an hour, hour-and-a-half to get to school every day, but hopefully we can encourage more kids to go to school.”

 

Debunking one of the biggest misconceptions about menopause

The surprising truth about common menopause misconceptions

Nearly all women will go through menopause at some point in their lives. Often with this comes a loss of intimacy, one of the biggest – yet least discussed – side effects of menopause. While to some this may seem inevitable, menopause does not need to signify the end of a woman’s sex life.

In honor of Menopause Awareness Month, and the estimated 6,000 women who reach menopause in the U.S. each day, it’s time to shed light on their intimate wellness. Women going through menopause don’t have to live with uncomfortable and discouraging symptoms, and will find relief in some key facts about this important stage in life.

Myth: Women experience menopause in their fifties.

Fact: Menopause actually affects a broad age range of women. While the average age of menopause for U.S. women is 51 years, perimenopause – which refers to the time during which a woman’s body begins to transition in preparation for menopause – can begin as early as mid-30s. Additionally, early onset of menopause can occur as a result of chemical and surgical interventions, such as chemotherapy or hysterectomies.

Myth: Hot flashes and mood swings are the most common menopause symptoms.

Fact: While nearly every woman will experience menopause at some point in her life, not all of them will experience it the same way. According to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), as a woman transitions into menopause, lower estrogen levels not only cause hot flashes but have several other effects on the body such as vaginal dryness, which can undermine sexual motivation and drive.

In fact, according to a 2015 Toluna Quick Survey Study of 1,000 postmenopausal women, 75 percent suffer from vaginal dryness to some extent, and 90 percent who responded they suffer from vaginal dryness to a moderate-large extent said the dryness negatively affects their life. This is because peri, menopausal and postmenopausal women often experience VVA (Vulvo Vaginal Atrophy), also known as GSM (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause) – characterized by lesser known symptoms of vaginal dryness, burning, itching, incontinence and painful intercourse.

Myth: Menopause symptoms impacting a woman’s intimacy are permanent.

Fact: Symptoms that affect intimacy can be frustrating for both a woman going through menopause and her partner. However, women who experience these types of symptoms do not need to live with them for the rest of their lives. CO2RE(R) Intima – a simple, quick and effective procedure – is one of the latest innovations in vaginal therapy, helping women with their intimate wellness, particularly with issues surrounding menopause. The procedure delivers both immediate and long-lasting relief in a painless, non-surgical treatment. CO2RE Intima can help treat these symptoms and get a woman’s sex life back on track. Visit www.co2reintima.com to find a physician in your area and to see if treatment is right for you.

Myth: After menopause, a woman’s sex life is never the same.

Fact: Many women remain sexually active beyond midlife and into older age. Some women enjoy their sex lives even more once they are postmenopausal as they no longer need to worry about pregnancy. Additionally, menopause may come at an age when many women are becoming “empty nesters” after sending children off to college, an opportunity for them to reconnect with their partners and reinvigorate their sex lives. If you’re experiencing symptoms of menopause that may be preventing you from enjoying your sex life, visit www.co2reintima.com to learn more about CO2RE Intima treatment and how it can help restore vaginal health.

Myth: All vaginal rejuvenation treatments are for aesthetic purposes.

Fact: While some women may think that vaginal laser treatment is strictly for cosmetic purposes, in fact, it can help restore women’s intimate wellness by offering a number of functional and clinical benefits. CO2RE Intima is designed for women who want to relieve the signs of childbearing and aging in their vaginal area. This includes post-child bearing and peri and menopausal women, women who desire enhancement in sexual functioning and a better sexual experience, women who seek vaginal cosmetic improvement and women who want to feel more confident about their feminine health.

Rather than an ending, menopause should signify a new beginning in a woman’s life and opportunities for renewed intimacy. Don’t let menopause interrupt your sex life. Now that you know the facts and what CO2RE Intima treatment can offer, you can feel confident about your feminine health throughout your menopausal journey.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Are you prepared for Hurricane Weather?

Tips to prepare your home for hurricane season

NOAA predicts a 70 percent likelihood of 10 to 16 named storms in 2016 with four to eight potentially becoming hurricanes. However, while weather experts monitor storm patterns, homeowners don’t have to sit idly by and wait for disaster to strike.

“Getting your home prepared before a hurricane hits can help prevent damage,” says Jim Clifford, director of underwriting at United Service Automobile Association and its affiliates (USAA). “While you can’t prevent the storm, knowing you did everything possible to help protect your assets can help with this emotional experience.”

Clifford explains what steps to take now, before a storm hits and after it passes.

What to do now:

Tame Mother Nature. Trim trees to reduce potential damage from falling limbs.

Clear out gutters. Clean rain gutters and keep them free of debris. You could create your own flood with clogged drains and gutters.

Get rid of clutter. Pick up things around your yard that you are no longer using, such as empty plant pots, etc.

Shield glass. Purchase storm shutters or 5/8-inch marine plywood and have it cut to fit and ready to install to help protect windows, glass doors and skylights in the event of a storm.

Make a plan. Develop a family communication plan and practice your evacuation.

What to do before the storm hits:

Move belongings. Keep valuable items away from windows.

Bring the outdoors inside. Bring lighter-weight outdoor items indoors, such as trash cans, patio furniture, plants and toys. Secure other objects that could be picked up by the wind.

Shelter your car. If you have to evacuate and plan to leave a vehicle behind, put it in the garage or on higher ground. Avoid parking it under a tree or on a low-lying street where it could be damaged by water.

Secure heavy-duty items. Make sure to properly store items such as boats or motorcycles, following the same general guidelines as with your car. If your boat will stay in the water, tie it down securely and remove the motor and any small objects.

Unplug electronics. To prevent damage from an electrical surge, unplug electronics and household appliances. Don’t rely on surge protectors to save them.

Create an emergency kit. In the event of evacuation, be ready to go.  Pack medication, nonperishable food, water (1 gallon per person per day), first aid kit, flashlight and batteries.

Evacuate. Leave the area if necessary to protect yourself and your family. Always comply with mandatory evacuations.

What to do after the storm:

Wait until the coast is clear. If you are forced to evacuate, listen to the radio or TV news stations and wait until the area is declared safe before returning.

Don’t flip the switch. Once you return home, don’t turn on the power right away if the area or your home is flooded. Have an electrician inspect your home first. You should also have your gas lines inspected — avoid open flames or candles until you do. Have your plumbing checked out as well.

Create a documentary. Record or photograph any damage to your home and belongings — before repairs are made or claims are filed with your insurance company. Help protect your property from further damage and keep all receipts for these costs.

For more information regarding USAA’s hurricane loss mitigation and flood insurance, visit USAA.com and search “hurricane.”

 

 

 

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Jamaican scientist receives the Secretary of Defense Award

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, September 30th, 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:

The Miami Urban Contemporary Experience presents the Hang Your Bra for the Cause Exhibition opening reception on Wednesday, October 5th, from 3pm – 9pm. Hang your Bra for the cause is presented in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month at the Little Haiti Cultural Center.

The Carnival season kicks off tomorrow with Junior Carnival where over 350 young masqueraders will walk the perimeter of Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill wearing bright, colorful costumes. Ages 2 to 18 are allowed to walk in the parade and will compete based on the originality and craftsmanship of their costumes. Gates open at 11a.m. and kids under 10 years old are in free.

The Third Horizon Caribbean Film Festival launched at O Cinema Wynwood last night in Miami. Supported by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the festival will run through October 2nd with the purpose of highlighting Caribbean filmmakers who are shining a light on their nations through cinematography. Some featured works include Bajan artist Sheena Rose and the anticipated neorealist film Ayiti Mon Amour.

In sports:

FIFA has come under criticism for disbanding its anti-racism task force saying it had “completely fulfilled its temporary mission.” The task force was set up in 2013 by the organization’s former president Sepp Blatter to combat racism in the sport. Former FIFA presidential candidate Prince Ali of Jordan commented on the subject saying “The fight against racism is far from over and the notion that the current FIFA leadership believes that the ‘task force’s recommendations have been implemented’ is shameful.”

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Jamaica born U.S Army scientist Pauline M. Smith is the recipient of the Office of the Secretary of Defense Award for Excellence. The award is given to those who have contributed significantly to the mission of the US Department of Defense. Smith was honored for her contributions to Tactical Warfare Systems, Land Warfare and Munitions.

For today’s weather forecast:

Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 90 and a low of 74. Cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 90 and a low of 78.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.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 H.

The First Government Continuation School In Jamaica Was Built

On this day in Caribbean history, September 30, 1911, the first government continuation school in Jamaica was built. In 1892 the Board of Education in Jamaica discovered that there was a lack of thousands of schools on the island, mostly in Kingston.

On the motion of the Reverend William Gillies it was decided to “establish one large graded elementary school for boys, and another for girls arranged in three divisions under the direction and supervision of the Board itself.”

“The school is to gradually grow into a centre for specialised manual instruction. Children from other Kingston schools are from the first to benefit by the training afforded by the Board School.”

These plans resulted in the establishment of the Board School taking over the former Mico College. In 1896 the Board secured the services as Headmaster of Mr. Peet, a trained and certificated English teacher and a qualified in wood-work. Shortly after this the name was changed to the Manual Training School.

In 1901 it was decided to close the Girls’ Department, and up to the time of the earthquake of 1907 the school consisted of a Kindergarten Department, and the Manual Training School. The school was temporarily closed to be used for governmental purposes and the manual training school was removed to Elletson Road.

Ft. Lauderdale Strikers loss ends 7 game streak

Ft. Lauderdale Strikers loss ends 7 game streak

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers had an end to their undefeated streak after a 4-1 loss to rival, the Tampa Bay Rowdies at a rainy Central Broward Stadium on Saturday.

The Strikers result coupled with other NASL action this weekend, sees the Fort Lauderdale in eighth place in the combined standings. But Fort Lauderdale sits just four points out of the final spot in the NASL Championship, currently held by Minnesota. Tampa Bay takes ahold of fifth place, one point behind the Loons.

For the Rowdies, former England international and Premier League winner, Joe Cole, found teammate Georgi Hristov inside the box right in front of goalkeeper Bruno for a sliding goal. Hristov also scored another goal in the 43rd minute and completed his hat trick with eight minutes to play. Tommy Heinemann’s tally in the 37th minute gave the Rowdies a 3-1 lead at halftime.

Back in the game, the Strikers caught a break but were unable to score enough to bring them to victory. After Junior Sandoval and Amauri came on the pitch in the 53rd minute to strengthen the front, Sandoval came close with a couple of attempts in a span of two minutes.

At one stage, the Strikers managed a series of six corner kicks but without netting a goal. Nunez also executed a dangerous free kick in the 74th minute as Tampa Bay goalkeeper Matt Pickens managed to block the ball giving the home team another corner.

During the intense play, Bruno made eight saves which included a few high quality stops keeping the Strikers loss to a low 4 of the Rowdies total 12 shots on goal.

The Strikers hit the road for three consecutive games losing to Puerto Rico F 2-1 . They will now travel to New York to take on the Cosmos on Sunday, followed by a game in Carolina October 8th.

 

Presidential debate motivates voter registration

Presidential debate motivates voter registration

The anticipated first presidential debate between Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump seem to have been a major motivator for voters who had been sitting on the fence about voting, and for people who were reluctant to register to vote, in November.

Based on the responses from South Floridians under age 45, 17 of whom were registered voters – 7 Democrats, 5 Republicans, and 5 independents, interviewed by National Weekly post-debate, Clinton won the debate 11 – 4 with 2 Republicans believing neither candidate won. Not surprisingly all the Democrats believed Clinton won, as did three independent and one Republican.

Among those, what surprised and concerned them was Trump’s response to Clinton’s allegation of not paying federal income tax, saying “That makes me smart.”

“How can Trump seek to become president of this country and imply that it’s not smart to pay taxes, when taxes are the life blood of funding key federal projects?” Nadia Blessing, a 26-year-old Tamarac resident, asked.

Most of the other registered and non-registered voters interviewed believed Trump’s remarks were either “irresponsible” or “stupid.”

The two Republicans who believed neither Trump or Clinton won, expressed concern that “Trump seemed unsettled and flustered,” and Clinton, “too scripted and smug.” “I doubt I will be voting this year”, said Andrew Mayes, 39. “I am not happy with either candidate whatsoever.”

Of the six unregistered voters five said the debate “seriously motivated” them to register before Florida’s October 11 deadline. “Honestly, I wasn’t really paying attention to the presidential election campaign until about two weeks ago, but the debate has completely motivated to get registered quickly,” said 31-year old Bradley Noble. He said he will likely register without party affiliation but “Unless something seriously occurs, I will vote Clinton. In the debate she seemed so much more confident, assured of herself and presidential compared to Trump.”

A coalition of Florida organizations are taking advantage of the momentum being generated as Election Day approaches, and from the debate, to register citizens who are still unregistered.

On Tuesday, designated National Voter Registration Day, Florida Immigrant Coalition in partnership with organizations like the Young American Dreamers, Hope CommUnity Center and the Farmworkers Association of Florida focused on registering Floridians of color in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties.

“Too many times our communities have been left forgotten by those who sought out their votes during election seasons. Now we are building our electoral power to demand plans of action from our elected officials,” said Daniel Barajas, Executive Director of the Young American Dreamers. “This goes beyond any election day, because our work is for our children’s future.”

“Our communities will not be persuaded by empty promises. We are actively reaching out to immigrant and black communities to ensure all eligible voters have our families in mind when heading to the polls this November.” said Ivan Parra, South Florida Campaign Lead Coordinator.

According to a recent United States Citizens Immigration Services, (USCIS) Florida is leading the nation in newly naturalized citizens with a spike of 54 percent in the past year.

Meanwhile, the presidential campaigns continue to focus their attention on Florida. On Tuesday Trump held a rally in Melbourne, Central Florida, while Clinton is scheduled to campaign in Broward and St. Lucie counties on Friday.

 

Haiti Orphanages, trafficking children

Haiti Orphanages, trafficking children

According to the Lumos charity, founded by British author J.K. Rowling, four in five children living in Haiti’s orphanages have been given to the homes on false promises of an education or medical care. The London-based charity Lumos said many orphanages in the Caribbean nation were run by enterprising traffickers who starved and beat children to attract sympathy and money from well-intentioned donors.

“When people hear the word ‘orphanage’, they imagine that it’s a good thing or they imagine that it’s necessary. They do not imagine that so many orphanages are actually trafficking, beating, sexually abusing and starving children.” Lumos Chief Executive Georgette Mulheir told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

These proclaimed ‘Entrepreneurial’ people have seen that foreigners love giving money to orphanages and so they set up a company and begin to pay people to find and to recruit children,” said Mulheir. These people that find children track down poor families in the area and around and convince them to give up their children or they offer to pay for pre-natal care of pregnant women in exchange of their child as a form of repayment, she added.

In a report done by Lumos, the company said that there are some 30,000 children living across 760 orphanages in Haiti, but only about 15 percent of the institutions are officially registered. During that 2010 earthquake which collapsed most of Haiti, adoptions began to sky rocket and leaving some safeguards meant to protect the nation’s children were ignored. Experts say cases of human trafficking after a disaster are common as survivors are driven to desperate measures after losing their homes.

“The people who do this need to be prosecuted so that fewer people will think that this is a good way of making money.”

 

Thomson Reuters Foundation

Bruce Golding on CARICOM Reform

Former Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding, is defending the regional integration movement, saying the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is not a failure having achieved successes in several areas.

“I think we have done very well in terms of functional cooperation. If every country in CARICOM had to set up their own examination system, instead of having the Caribbean Examinations Council, it would be difficult for much of the smaller islands that have fewer resources than we do,” said Golding, who is also Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Review Commission.

The CARICOM Review Commission is the brainchild of Prime Minister Andrew Holness. It has been tasked to examine Jamaica’s role in the regional bloc and how it has impacted the country’s development.

Golding, who chairs the Commission, told a youth forum in Kingston that institutions such as the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) were successful areas of cooperation.

“We are all subject to natural disasters, and the response to natural disasters when they occur requires institutional building, capabilities, and it requires management. If every country had to set up (one) for itself, then you see the difficulties that many countries would have,” Golding said.

The former prime minister also argued that CARICOM is important for foreign policy coordination.

 

Bondi controversy in accepting Trump’s $25,000

Bondi claims no wrong doing in accepting Trump’s $25,000 campaign donation

In recent weeks Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi has become embroiled in the 2016 presidential election campaign.

Earlier this month, Florida Democratic Party Chair Allison Tant filed an elections complaint with the Florida Elections Commission against Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, claiming he made an illegal donation of $25,000 to Bondi. The lawsuit alleged Bondi personally solicited Trump for a donation during her 2013 campaign for attorney general and the Donald J. Trump Foundation donated $25,000 to Bondi in violation of IRScode. When Bondi attempted to return the donation, the Foundation refused to accept the check, but Trump reimbursed the Foundation $25,000, in violation of Section 106.08(5)(a), Florida Statutes.

It’s also alleged at the time Bondi requested and Trump made the donation, the attorney general’s office was reviewing complaints of fraud brought against Trump University operated by Donald Trump.

Last week, at a press conference Bondi did not deny accepting the donation. She said when she accepted it her office was not investigating the university. Bondi, a declared supporter of Trump’s run for president, said when she accepted the donation, “I just knew there was nothing improper.”

Bondi was originally elected attorney general in 2010.  Prior to her taking office in 2011 several Florida residents complained to the state about fraudulent practices of Trump University founded in 2005, offering courses in real estate, asset management, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation. Bondi said her office received three complaints since she took office, one before the $25,000 donation and two after.

There are allegations and calls by Bondi’s critics for her to resign because it’s implied she gave Trump a pass on investigating the claims against the university in exchange for the money. However, Bondi said she “would never, ever trade any campaign donation for some type of favor to anyone.”

Bondi said she solicited donations from Trump and several people during her 2013 reelection campaign.  However, when Trump made the $25,000 donation he was the subject of a $40 million lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.

Trump also hosted a fundraiser for Bondi at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach in March 2014, after it is alleged she was aware of the lawsuit against the university.

During the press conference Bondi said she hoped her credibility hasn’t been damaged because of the controversy, and insisted she wouldn’t be resigning from office.

Bondi whose term as attorney general ends in November 2018, has indicated she will be out of politics when this time comes.

National Weekly September 29, 2016

Page 2: September 29, 2016

Environmentally Conscience Paul B Perry, Director of Annual Giving and immediate past President of the Alumni Association of Titchfield High School, South Florida Chapter, TAATHS, presenting a check in the amount of US$35,000.00 to the Principal of Titchfield High School Mr. Richard Thompson

North Miami Mayor Smith Joseph urges South Florida to challenge Haitian deportation

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, September 29th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW 90, I’m Jahlisa H.
Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious!
Here’s a look at our top stories:
Mae Smith is challenging incumbent Lauderhill Commissioner Margaret Bates for the third time, concerned that the city’s appearance is worsening and that some neighborhoods are being neglected. Smith says they need to make sure all residents have a chance to take advantage of city services.
North Miami Mayor Smith Joseph is urging people in South Florida especially in Miami-Dade County to join in an effort to get the Obama Administration to reconsider its new policy that will deport thousands of Haitians living in the United States. He believes Haiti is not stable enough to absorb an influx of Haitian deportees.
Wells Fargo customers are being urged to review their accounts after bank employees opened millions of unauthorized accounts to meet sales goals. The bank has been fined $. 185  million by regulators, and says they have already given back $ 2.6  million in fees for products that were sold without authorization.
In sports: 
The Fort Lauderdale strikers fell just short in a comeback attempt last night with a 2 – 1 loss to Puerto Rico FC. This was the team’s second loss following a 4-1 defeat to Tampa Bay on Saturday.
Now, here’s what’s trending: 
Tropical storm Matthew is expected to strengthen into a Category 2 hurricane over the Caribbean before turning north toward Jamaica and Cuba by Monday. The National Hurricane Center issued the first advisory on Matthew late last night.
For today’s weather forecast:
Thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 88 and a low of 74. Mostly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 86 and a low of 77.
For more information on these and other stories, visit
caribbeannationalweekly.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 H.

This Day in History: The 1991 coup d’etat in Haiti took place

On this day in Caribbean history, September 29, 1991, The Haitian coup d’état took place. When President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, elected 8 months earlier in the Haitian general election, 1990–1991, was deposed by the Haitian army. The coup was led by Army General Raoul Cédras, Army Chief of Staff Phillipe Biamby and Chief of the National Police, Michel François. Aristide was sent into exile, his life only saved by the intervention of United States, French and Venezuelan diplomats.

Emmanuel Constant later reported that US Central Intelligence Agency agents were present with Cedras at the army headquarters during the coup, although the CIA denied prior knowledge. The CIA “paid key members of the coup regime forces, identified as drug traffickers, for information from the mid-1980s at least until the coup.” Cédras and François had received military training in the United States.

After the coup (led by Raoul Cédras), members of the new coup regime, notably Chief of National Police Michel François, were accused of drug smuggling at a much greater rate. A 1992 US State Department report noted that Aristide was “planning new policies and institutions to combat narcotics trafficking, [and] his ouster…crippled narcotics control efforts in Haiti.” An internal 1993 US Congress memo stated that “all those jailed for drug-trafficking have been released and…Michel François has personally supervised the landing of planes carrying drugs and weapons.” The US later indicted François but could not secure his extradition from Honduras.

A coup attempt against Aristide had taken place on 6 January, even before his inauguration, when Roger Lafontant, a Tonton Macoute leader under Duvalier, seized the provisional President Ertha Pascal-Trouillot and declared himself President. After large numbers of Aristide supporters filled the streets in protest and Lafontant attempted to declare martial law, the Army crushed the incipient coup.

The coup was condemned by both the United Nations General Assembly and the Organization of American States in October 1991, and throughout the coup regime’s existence the only state to recognise the regime was Vatican City. The 31 July 1994 United Nations Security Council Resolution 940 authorised a United States-led multinational force under unified command and control to restore Aristide to office, under Operation Uphold Democracy.

 

 

 

wiki resource

Jamaica Football Federation names 20-man squad for CFU matches

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has named a 20-man squad for games in the Scotia Bank Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Caribbean Cup Round Three. Prepared by Interim Head Coach Theodore “Tappa” Whitmore, former coach and national player, and Assistant Jerome Waite after head coach Winfried Schaefer was fired following Jamaica’s catastrophic FIFA World Cup record which ended with back-to-back losses against Panama and Haiti. Both coaches were named after veteran coach Carl Brown was offered and turned down the job earlier this week.

For Group One, Jamaica will play against Suriname on Wednesday, October 5 at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex in Trench Town and face off against Guyana at the National Stadium in Providence, Guyana.

Playing in Group Two is Haiti, French Guiana and St Kitts & Nevis. For Group Three will be Curacao, Antigua and Barbuda and Puerto Rico. Group Four will host Trinidad and Tobago, Dominican Republic and Martinique.

Team Jamaica will show the talents of 12 overseas players and eight local players.

 

 

Mr. Runcie goes to Washington

Mr. Runcie goes to Washington  

On Monday Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Robert W. Runcie was a guest at the White House in Washington DC where he was invited to participate in discussions on the importance of regional partnerships in Kindergarten to Grade 12 computer science education. He was accompanied to the discussions by Broward District’s STEM(Science Technology Engineering and Math) Science Supervisor Dr. Lisa Milenkovic and Office of School Performance and Accountability Director Christine Semisch.

Superintendent Runcie participated in a panel discussion and shared the Broward District’s efforts to increase students’ access to computer science in schools.

The White House discussions highlighted the need to establish regional collaborators to build computer science communities and organizations dedicated to supporting, advocating for and funding work in computer science.

Broward County Public Schools has the distinction of being the first school district in the US to partner with the national organization Code.org, to expand computer science opportunities for students and increase professional development opportunities for teachers. The District is the recipient of a $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to develop a national model for integrating computer science into the elementary school curriculum.

Pertaining to his invitation to the White House event, Runcie said, “It is a tremendous honor to be invited to share information on the great work being done across Broward County Public Schools to increase access to computer science in schools. Computer science is a foundational field that opens doors to a variety of high-wage, in-demand career fields.” He said the District appreciates the ongoing support from its partners, Code.org and the National Science Foundation, who are instrumental in the success of our computer science initiative.

Earlier this month, Broward County Public Schools was recognized during the White House Summit on Computer Science for All for the District’s commitment to expand its computer science initiative. Called #BrowardCodes, the initiative is geared to positively impact more than 50,000 students with computer science offerings at all the Districts 236 K-12 schools in the 2016/17 school year.

Through its Professional Learning Partnership with Code.org, the District is also building a unit of 20 master teacher trainers and plans to increase the number of computer science trained K-12 teachers to over 1,000. Eight of the Districts middle schools currently offer the Exploring Computer Science course, and 2,000 high school students are enrolled in computer science courses at the college level through Advanced Placement or college dual enrollment.

Former President Jagdeo to visit South & Central Florida

 

Former President Jagdeo to visit South & Central Florida

Former President and current leader of the main opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Bharat Jagdeo, will address the 18th annual Eric E Williams Memorial lecture in Miami this Friday before meeting with members of Guyana’s Diaspora in Central Florida on Sunday.

As a former president himself, Jagdeo will address the US election, presidential power and Donald Trump at the lecture; a theme derived at against the backdrop of this year’s presidential election campaign which has proven to be controversial on many levels with Donald Trump being the center of many debates and controversy.

Jagdeo, who served as president from 1999 – 2011, will head to Orlando following Friday’s presentation where matters related to Guyana’s development as well as the state of the economy and politics are likely to be discussed.

In recent weeks, Jagdeo, 52, has made headlines both at home and in the Diaspora following a speech made in New York in which he blamed the current administration of President David Granger of discriminating against Guyanese of Indian origin.

Jagdeo, who made the claim in July, has also sought to assure the Diaspora that the PPP/C will win the general election that is constitutionally due in 2020.

The former president has constantly berated the current administration that was elected in May 2015, for taking the country backwards.

Prior to his presidency, Jagdeo was Guyana’s Finance Minister; he then succeeded the late President Janet Jagan following her resignation due to failing health.

In 2011 he became the first President to relinquish the office in accordance with the term limits of the constitution.

 

“Don’t deport Haitians from the US”

“Don’t deport Haitians from the US”

On Tuesday, the North Miami City Council, on the initiative of Mayor Dr. Smith Joseph passed an emergency resolution urging other Florida cities, and counties, to have the Obama Administration reconsider the recently announced policy to recommence deportation of undocumented Haitians living in the US.

Since the 2010 earthquake that devastated Haiti, killing and injuring thousands, the US government has been lenient in accepting undocumented Haitians fleeing the country into the US.

When President Obama assumed office for his second term in 2012, he has extended Temporary Protective Status (TPS) for undocumented Haitians allowing them to live and work in the US, the latest extension of TPS is scheduled to expire in July 2017.

The current stance taken by the US precludes Haitians currently protected by TPS from being deported unless they are convicted of serious crimes or pose a national security threat.

However, recently the Obama administration announced while TPS would remain in effect until 2017, the administration will be more vigilant in deporting Haitians fleeing to the US from Haiti.

In making the announcement, the US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said conditions have improved significantly in Haiti since the earthquake “to allow the US government to expel undocumented Haitians on a more regular basis, in line with the practice used for nationals of other countries.”

According to Homeland Security, an increasing number of Haitians have been attempting to enter the US from Haiti with most showing up at the California border, travelling from Haiti via Central America and Mexico. The Department said some 5,000 Haitians were stopped from crossing the border in San Diego, California since October 2015, compared to 339 the previous year. Meanwhile, over 500 Haitians are in shelters at the California border waiting appointment with US immigration officials to enter the US. Should the new policy be implemented, hundreds of Haitians arriving at the US borders could be turned back as is the case of people currently fleeing from Central America.

Homeland Security said, nonetheless, if US Citizenship and Immigration Services officers believe those arriving Haitians have a “credible fear” of persecution in Haiti, the officers can take the decision to have them enter and remain in the US pending appearance before an immigration judge for asylum or other relief.

The announcement by the Obama administration is sternly opposed by Haitian communities in the US, including the large South Florida community. Most of these Haitians believe circumstances in Haiti have not sufficiently improved since the earthquake to justify recommencing deportation of Haitians from the US.

The City of North Miami’s resolution also appeals to the US Conference of Mayors, to join North Miami in getting the Obama administration to cease the deportations.

With one of the largest Haitian communities in the US, increase in deportations could seriously impact residents of North Miami. City Pastor, Josephe Dugan, who despite migrating from Haiti in 2005 still visits the homeland frequently. He said, “Haiti is still in recovery mode from the earthquake and any significant deportation of Haitians will only impose on the hardships the country still endures.”

Mayor Joseph also said, “Conditions in Haiti are certainly far from stable to justify the US embarking on a policy of deporting Haitians back to Haiti.”

Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett reaches out to Caribbean Community

Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett reaches out to Caribbean Community

On Monday, Congress representative, Stacey Plaskett, met with Caribbean community leaders in South Florida on behalf of the Clinton campaign. The representative alongside Anika Omphroy and the Caribbean Coalition Director, Karen Green visited Little Haiti, Overtown, and heavily dominated Caribbean cities to listen to the needs of that area. Plaskett visited Joys Roti Shop in Lauderhill, sitting with officials including Broward County commissioner Dale Holness, reiterating the importance the Caribbean community plays in deciding the next president of the United States.

Speaking on behalf of the presidential candidate, Plaskett made it a point to speak directly to the Caribbean Americans in south Florida stating that they are one of the primary targets for voter registration and other support.

On her small business tour, Plaskett took time to share a moment to stop at Laparkan Shipping Company in Oakland Park, Stiles Farmers Market in Lauderhill, and The Dutch Pot Lauderdale Lakes. During the meeting at Laparkan, Plaskett introduces herself as a representative of the “entire Caribbean, to being their voice in congress, not just to talk about the needs of the Caribbean but the potential of the Caribbean.” She added that businesses like Laparken and other businesses “show the wealth and the depth of community and of understanding that occur within the Caribbean and the Caribbean Diaspora the has made the United States their home. The importance of having a strong economy in the US for those Islands.”

Plaskett made her final stop, the reason for her visit, at the Presidential Debate Watch Party held at The Garden in Lauderdale Lakes. Plaskett’s visit came only days before the Democratic candidate is scheduled to hold public campaign events to speak with the community on including jobs, education, criminal justice reform, and combating gun violence.

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