Home Blog Page 1427

Billboard Hot 100

Jamaica government facing defamation lawsuit from Dancehall artiste Popcaan
Dancehall Artist, Popcaan

The new favorite Jamaican-Canadian rapper, Tory Lanez continues to climb the Hot 100 chart with his hip-hop/reggae mix and remake of Tanto Metro and Devonte’s Everyone Falls In Love which currently sits at number thirty on the list. Dancehall’s, Popcorn, who collaborated with Drake and Rihanna on the single, Too Good, has climbed to the number fourteen spot.

After spending three weeks in the number one spot with the single Cheap Thrills alongside Sia, dancehall artist Sean Paul has fallen to the number two spot on the Billboard Hot 100 this week.

Another remake, remix on the charts is the song In my head by Fifth Harmony and Fetty Wop. The song samples the work of Mad Cobra’s 1992 release of Flex.

For the Reggae album top ten, Vybz Kartel who released his “King of the Dancehall” on June 10 is currently holding its spot at number eight, while King Jammy’s latest project, King Jammy Presents New Sounds of Freedom, debuted at number 10.

This Day in History: Ellis Achong passed away in TNT

Ellis Achong

On this day in Caribbean history, August 29, 1986, left-arm spin bowler Ellis Achong died in the twin island republic. Achong was the first cricketer from Trinidad and Tobago of Chinese extraction to play Test cricket appearing for the West Indies in six matches against England. Chosen to tour England in 1933, he played in all three Tests but with limited success, and in all first-class matches that season took 71 wickets.

His stock ball was left-arm orthodox spin but one of his variations was unorthodox left-arm spin. After bowling this variation to have Walter Robins stumped at Old Trafford in 1933, it is reputed that Robins said to the umpire Joe Hardstaff Sr., “fancy being done by a bloody Chinaman”. Learie Constantine is said to have replied: “Do you mean the bowler or the ball?” An unorthodox left-arm spin delivery (spinning from the off side to the leg side for a right-handed batsman) is known as a “chinaman” as a result.

After 1935 he played in the Lancashire leagues until 1951, and having returned to live in Trinidad he stood as an umpire in the 1953-54 Port-of-Spain Test between West Indies and England. In all first-class matches he took 110 wickets at 30.23, his best figures being seven for 73 for Trinidad against British Guiana in 1932-33.

He returned to Trinidad and Tobago in 1952, and stood as a Test umpire in the 4th Test between West Indies and England at Port of Spain in March 1954, a high-scoring draw in which West Indies scored an imposing 681 for 8 declared, with the 3 “W”s (Everton Weekes, Frank Worrelland Clyde Walcott) all scoring centuries in West Indies’ first innings, and Peter May and Denis Compton doing the same in England’s 537 in reply.

Ellis Achong ultimately became a sports coach with the Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Education, coaching and selecting the new comers to the Trinidad and Tobago cricket team.

Alia Atkinson lands victory at FINA Swimming World Cup

Alia Atkinson lands victory at FINA Swimming World Cup

Alia Atkinson, of Jamaica, has succeeded in matching the World Record in the 100 breaststroke at the 2016 Federation Internationale De Natation (FINA) World Cup Series stop in Paris/Chartres. The 27 year old continued her superb post Olympic form by landing her second victory grabbing gold in the women’s 50 metre breast-stroke gold with a brilliant 29.25 seconds.

She again beat Olympic 100m silver medallist, Russia’s Yuliya Efimova who swam 29.34 seconds for the runner-up spot and American Katie Meili who claimed bronze in 29.75 seconds.

Atkinson was also a fourth place finisher in the 50 metre butterfly. She touched in 26.04 seconds, almost a second behind the winner Jeanette Ottesen of  Denmark 25.09.

The prize for setting a World Record at one of the FINA World Cup is $10,000 U.S. dollars, but unfortunately does not rule in favor of Atkinson because it only counts if the record is broken, not tied. Atkinson’s top swim does however, put her in good standings towards the World Cup’s first place prize of $50,000.

 

Jamaica’s adult literacy rate has increased to 87 percent

Jamaica’s adult literacy rate has increased to 87 percent

Deputy Executive Director of  Jamaican Foundation for Lifelong Learning (JFLL) ,Dr. Grace-Camille Munroe says this is a very positive development.

She however noted that the island is still lagging behind some of its Caribbean neighbours.

Munroe added that with Jamaica lagging behind, this affects the country’s productivity and competitiveness.

“According to organisations such as the World Bank and the World Economic Forum, Jamaica needs to do more. Therefore, the JFLL is modernising and expanding what we offer to ensure that where people live, move and have their being, they have access to education.  Education is not just about literacy and numeracy; it is about life chances, it is about equipping adults to be able to make effective decisions that will impact  their lives, their families, their workplaces and their communities,”   Munroe said.

She pointed out that in 2014, the JFLL embarked on an ambitious endeavour  by  revising the more-than-40 year-old curricula, modernised its instructional material and retooled the offices to ensure that all who access JFLL programmes island wide are better able to fend for themselves and move on to higher learning.

“So, we are on a mission to refocus our energy and rebrand ourselves.”

The JFLL, which has 34 centres island wide, provides the opportunity for a second chance to adult learners to be able to find a better job or to transition to post-secondary education.

One such avenue is its High School Diploma Equivalency (HSDE) Programme that was launched in September 2014.

This programme is geared towards adult learners 17 years and older.

The programme targets students who leave high school without certification, school dropouts, persons who want to access skills training, unattached youth and persons who are incarcerated.

 

 

Dominican Diaspora urged to invest in Dominica

Dominican Diaspora urged to invest in Dominica

Dominican business owners living overseas are being urged to invest in the country in order to create job opportunities.

The call was made by President of the International Foundation for the Development of Haitians (IFDH), Petit Louis Acceus .

“We have to tell people about Dominica to come to invest in Dominica, that means when people from overseas come here to invest that is opportunity for Dominican people,” said Acceus .

“ We get people who have money to come and invest, the good thing, light will pay, social security will pay and more people will be employed…everybody will get a piece of that bread.”

He also encouraged Dominicans to  help the IFDH that was established in 2012 to assist Haiti in the aftermath of the massive earthquake that rocked the French speaking Caribbean nation in 2010.

“We call on the public to continue to support the foundation,” he noted. “We are trying to put measures in place where we can assist more Dominicans and Haitians.”

The foundation has in the past, reached out to Dominicans.

In November 2015, the IFDH assisted persons who were affected following the passage of Tropical Storm Erika.

 

This Day in History: Daniel Bankhead became the first black pitcher in MLB

Daniel Bankhead

On this day in history, August 26, 1947, Daniel Robert Bankhead became the first black pitcher in Major League Baseball. He played in Negro league baseball for the Birmingham Black Barons and the Memphis Red Sox from 1940 to 1947, then played for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1947 to 1951. During World War II, he served in the Marine Corps from 1942 to 1945.

Dan Bankhead is best known for two things. He was the first African-American pitcher in the major leagues, and he and four brothers all played in the Negro Leagues. However, Bankhead’s big-league career was brief and unsatisfying, and so he received scanty mainstream press coverage. Even the black newspapers never profiled him in any depth.

He also passed away at the young age of 55 in 1976, before Negro Leagues and Brooklyn Dodgers historians could record his personal memories. Fortunately, family and friends have helped to connect the dots.After a strong career in Negro league baseball playing for the Birmingham Black Barons and Memphis Red Sox, Bankhead was signed at age 24 by Branch Rickey to play in the Brooklyn Dodgers’ farm system. Bankhead, an excellent hitter who was leading the Negro League with a .385 batting average when purchased by the Dodgers, hit a home run in his first major league at bat on August 26, 1947, in Ebbets Field off Fritz Ostermueller of the Pittsburgh Pirates; he also gave up ten hits in 3-1/3 innings pitching in relief that day. He finished the season having pitched in four games for the Dodgers with an earned run average (ERA) of 7.20.

Bankhead was shipped to the minor leagues for the 1948 and 1949 seasons. Pitching for clubs in Nashua, New Hampshire and St. Paul, Minnesota in 1948, he recorded 24 wins and six losses. He returned to the Dodgers for the 1950 season, appearing in 41 games, with twelve starts, and finished with nine wins, four losses and a 5.50 ERA. In 1951, his final year in the majors, he appeared in seven games, losing his only decision, with an ERA of 15.43. After he played his final major league game, Bankhead spent time in the Mexican League, playing with various teams through 1966.

These dots were widely scattered — as with many black ballplayers in his day, Bankhead’s career was multinational. He starred in Puerto Rico, made detours to the Dominican Republic and Canada, and then knocked around Mexico well into his 40s. Always a respectable hitter, Dan played the field abroad in addition to pitching. Outside the US, he was also a coach and manager.

Remembering Vonnie McGowan-Arscott

Remembering Vonnie McGowan-Arscott

Oliver Falloon-Reid,  President of JURA

Vonnie McGowan-Arscott, O.D. who passed away on Thursday, August 18 can be described as a woman of excellence. While we use this description for a variety of people and events, when we think of this illustrious Jamaican, advocate for the less fortunate, and ambassador for things Jamaican, we realize these words have genuine meaning.

Her legacy spans across the Jamaican Diaspora, touching countless lives in many ways.  She loved people, and was passionate about Jamaica and Jamaicans, and very fitting, pioneered the Woman of Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding Jamaican women for many years – always shining the spotlight on others.

People who knew her, may recall her time as a very successful radio and TV presenter in New York City during the 1980s. Her skills as a Disc Jockey raised the profile of vintage Jamaican music, influencing many concerts and creating an opportunity for music promotions at the time.  Many successful musicians and Jamaican artistes will testify to her role in promoting their careers and securing life changing international opportunities for them.  This aspect of her work served to break new ground for Jamaican culture and music in world renowned venues, including Madison Square Garden and the World famous, Apollo Theatre in New York City.

In 1990, McGowan-Arscott relocated to South Florida, and maintained her community momentum by getting involved with various civic organizations and continued helping the less fortunate. She became a member of Jamaica United Relief Association, Inc. (JURA), serving as president from 2009 to 2011.  Her signature projects included the monthly outreach feeding of the homeless in Broward and Miami-Dade, a collection drive where she said “your small change can make a big change”.  She also assisted a number of ‘undocumented’ Caribbean farm workers in the agricultural belts of Florida, was involved in countless feeding projects in Jamaica, and raised funds for the Athletic Foundation in that country to assist the gifted youth.

She is survived by her Husband Paul Arscott, her children Daemion, Jody Black, Robert Arscott and five grandchildren. Her memorial service has been set for September 17.

 

Sold Out!

Local fans all but Shut Out of T20I Cricket Series

International cricket returns to South Florida with a big bang this weekend. Preceded by the success of the Hero Caribbean Premier League T20 series last month, on Saturday and Sunday, August 27 and 28 the world number 2 ranked team, India, and the T20 world champions, West Indies, will play two Twenty20 International (T20I) games at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Lauderhill.

Only this time unlike previous games staged at the stadium, the vibrancy of the local Caribbean community by all accounts will not be rocking in the park.

Lauderhill Mayor Richard Kaplan told National Weekly that as soon as the India/WI T20I series was announced earlier this month, city and Broward County offices were inundated with calls for tickets, priced from $75 to $150. Despite very local limited promotion, tickets for the weekend games are all sold out, before local cricket fans were even made aware of the event.

“I really think the ticket sales were delayed for too long, creating pent-up demand. Tickets went on sale on the internet on Monday and were totally sold out within hours. The organizers held back some tickets for sale at the event but based on the vast demand, they also sold these on the Internet. These went very fast as well. I couldn’t even get a ticket. I only received one through the generosity of the organizers.”

He regrets the price of the tickets may have precluded hundreds of local cricket fans from attending the games. “The quality of this series is similar to an NFL Super Bowl played in the region, where most of the tickets are purchased by wealthy fans from out of town.”

The Regional Park in Lauderhill is one of the best cricket facilities in the U.S, and according to Kaplan, it is poised to be the center of international cricket in the country.

Earlier this month officials of the Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) and the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) announced the T20I series, with BCCI president Anurag Thakur hinting the possibility of the series becoming an annual event in the USA.

Both the BCCI and the WICB are cognizant of the opportunities for the success of international cricket in the U.S especially with the very large Caribbean and Indian Diaspora.

The Regional Park has a capacity for 15,000 spectators, but Kaplan said if required it can be expanded to hold up to 30,000 spectators.

Kaplan also said from information he has received, hundreds of visitors from across the US, and internationally, will be streaming into South Florida for the games. “This will be another tremendous boost for Lauderhill’s and the region’s economy,” reiterating the potential international cricket has locally and nationally.

Lauderhill and the US will also receive tremendous promotion from the series through live televised broadcast to millions of cricket fans in India and other cricket markets. In order to facilitate television broadcast live in India, this weekend games will begin unusually early at 10:00 a.m.

Both the West Indies and India are fielding very strong teams for the series. The West Indies team features stars like Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Dwayne Bravo and Andre Rusell. The team has a new captain in Carlos Brathwaite of Barbados, who replaced two-time T20 champion skipper Darren Sammy. Other members of the WI team include Andre Fletcher, Samuel Badree, Jason Holder, Marlon Samuels, Kieron Pollard, Lendl Simmons, Evin Lewis and Johnson Charles.

The Indian team includes MS Dhoni (captain),  Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Amit Mishra, and Stuart Binny.

Improvements seen in Primary Elections early voting

Improvements seen in Primary Elections early voting  

Supervisor of Elections in South Florida has described early voting underway in the August 30 Primary Elections as “steady” and “encouraging.”

Early voting commenced in Palm Beach and Miami-Dade County on August 15, and in both counties representatives of the respective SOE described voting as steady. Lily Hernandez who was at the voting site at the West Kendall Regional Library in Miami on Tuesday afternoon said voting was “somewhat slow” on the first few days, put picked up over the past weekend and this week. “I think the voting in these primary elections are an improvement over past primaries, which is encouraging.” However, Hernandez was unable to give an estimate of the votes cast up to Tuesday.

According to the website of the Palm Beach SOE, over 14, 000 voters had cast votes up to August 24. A staffer said she expects votes to “steadily” increase over the next few days and on Election Day.

In Broward County, Tanya Edwards, Public Information and Voter Education Coordinator at the SOE office said 11,488 voters had voted since early voting began on August 20. Compared to early voting in the similar period of the March 15 presidential elections, this is an improvement.

The three counties have approximately 2,320,000 registered voters. However, since the Primary Elections are closed elections, some 915,000 voters who are registered without party affiliation with either the Democratic of Republican parties, or NPA, are illegible to vote.

At the voting center at the West Kendall Regional Library   some voters, despite earlier publicity, were disappointed they couldn’t vote because they are registered NPA. Carolee and Stephanie Best, expressed frustration when they were turned away because they were NPA registrants. “We are strong supporters of a candidate running for Congress, and anticipated voting very much.”

A representative of the candidate present said the campaign “tried very much” to urge supporters who were NPA’s to register with the relevant party so they could vote in the primaries. “Obviously, and unfortunately, some people ignored our efforts,” she said.

The main objective of these primary elections is for voters to decide on a candidate from multiple candidates seeking to represent that party in respective offices in November’s general elections. Candidates receiving the majority vote in the primary will be elected to office, should there be no declared candidate from another party to oppose him/her in November.

Voters in Lauderhill, in addition to voting for candidates in federal, state and county offices are also required to vote for or against bond issues to raise $44.5 million to fund city projects. These include funding police body cameras, park renovations and road reconstruction.

In the City of Miami Gardens where voters are also voting for mayor and City Council members, voters also have another responsibility. They are required to vote for or against a change in the city charter. If approved by more than 50 percent of voters, city residents will, for the first time, through their elected officials, have a say in the development of lands adjacent to the newly named Hard Rock Stadium, owned by the Miami Dolphins. Approval of the charter means zoning applications would be processed through the city, and if an application is denied or amended developers can appeal to Miami-Dade County.

 

 

South Florida schools opens smoothly, but plenty mosquito spray in Miami-Dade

 South Florida schools opens smoothly, but plenty mosquito spray in Miami-Dade

From all accounts, the opening of public schools in Broward and Miami-Dade County went smoothly on Monday. Broward County Supervisor of Schools Robert Runcie referred to the day “as a pretty could start” to the school year. While Alberto Carvalho, Miami-Dade’s school superintendent expressed similar sentiments, the threat of the Zika virus was ever present in that county.

Marlene Moses, who resides on the outskirts of Wynwood, the area with the largest outbreak of locally contracted Zika, described the days efore school opened, and Monday, as “pretty weird,” Moses adhered to warnings from the school district and purchased long sleeves blouses for her girls to wear to school to avoid bites from Zika carrying mosquitoes.  “In addition to the long sleeves, which the middle school students hate, I sprayed them liberally with Off, the mosquito spray.”

“Mosquito spray is a major scholastic necessity for now,” said Bianca Perez of the Florida Department of Health (FDH). “It’s important everything be done to prevent students from being contaminated by mosquitoes.”

At some schools in the region the FDH placed representatives in booths at the entrances offering cans of mosquito spray, repellent towelettes and printed information on the Zika virus to parents.

Students were not allowed to take the repellent into the school compounds, but at several schools especially those in and close to Miami Beach, where the Zika outbreak is also evident, and Wynwood, parents and guardians walked with, or collected the spray cans from the FHD and sprayed their kids before they entered the school compounds.

Superintendent Carvalho actively participated in the Zika preventative measures evidenced on Monday.  He and other district officials attended a class at the Jose de Diego Middle School just outside of Wynwood where students were given lessons on the dangers of mosquitoes,  and  specifics about the Zika virus.

Haitian-American Celeste Josephe said her son Claude was in the class when Carvalho was present, and the school chief explained to him and the other students what some of the symptoms of Zika were.

Josephe admitted to not being “too concerned” about her three school-aged children getting Zika. “I’m confident the schools are doing everything possible to protect students.  They have been advising parents what to do and expect. I’m more concerned about me getting Zika, as my husband and I are planning a new baby. We going to postpone that,” she said with a smile.

On Monday, Carvalho emphasized that from the preparation made at the schools to protect students against mosquitoes, including providing some parents with long-sleeved uniforms and mosquito repellents, the schools were “the safest and best places” for students to be.

The cost for Zika prevention measures in the Miami-Dade School District are being met by the district, but Carvalho said he expects the state to refund the district from emergency funds it will most likely provide to combat the Zika crisis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Private use of ganja could be allowed in Guyana

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 25th, 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 Florida Caribbean Students Association of South Florida has been certified as an official Florida Third Party Voter Registration Organization. The certification means the group can now register voters on college campuses and communities across Florida. In preparation for participation in National Voter Registration Day on September 27, the group will join thousands of other businesses, organizations, and election officials to elevate civic engagement and participation in the democratic process.

As reports of confrontations between law enforcement and citizens continue, residents of South Florida are encouraged several local police departments are responding to the public’s appeal to wear body cameras. Joining the decisions made by other police departments the City of Pembroke Pines in Broward County also plans to phase in use of the cameras in 2017.

A new entertainment event is coming to South Florida’s Caribbean Diaspora. “Once A Month,” presented by local radio personality, Luther Mack, kicks off this Saturday with a night dedicated to the music of the 90’s. The event features reggae songstress Nadine Sutherland and dancehall comedian Professor Nuts, and will be held at the Luxurious Ballroom in Fort Lauderdale, starting at 9 pm.

Let’s take a look at sports:

International cricket returns to South Florida this weekend with, India, and T20 world champions, West Indies, scheduled to play two T20 International games at the Central Broward Regional Stadium in Lauderhill. The matches will start at 10 am. Tickets for the 15,000 seat stadium are already sold out.

And now, here’s what’s trending:

Guyanese President David Granger is suggesting there’s a possibility the private use of ganja could be allowed in Guyana in the near future. The Cabinet is awaiting advice and recommendations from the Ministries of Public Health and Public Security on how to move ahead with the issue.

For today’s weather forecast:

Scattered Thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 90 and a low of 78. Scattered storms in Miami-Dade, with a high of 87 and a low of 81.

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 Suzette Speaks.

National Weekly August 25, 2016

The National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses was founded

On this day in history, August 25,1908, the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses (NACGN) was founded by Martha Minerva Franklin.

This organization was dedicated to promoting the standards and welfare of Black nurses and breaking down racial discrimination in the profession. They served an important need, as Black nurses were not welcome in the American Nurses Association (ANA), the main purpose of the NACGN was to win integration of Black RNs into nursing schools, nursing jobs, and nursing organizations.

In 1934, Estelle Massey Riddle Osborne, who three years earlier had become the first black person to obtain a master’s degree in nursing, was elected president of NACGN. Her top priority was the hiring of the group’s first paid executive director, and the person she chose was Mabel K. Staupers. For 12 consecutive years, Osborne and Staupers attended each ANA House of Delegates meeting, lobbying for complete integration of Black nurses into their professional association. RNs had to be a member of a State Nurses Association, such as NYSNA, to belong to ANA. However, 16 southern states and Washington, D.C didn’t allow Black members.

They traveled throughout the country, drumming up new members and support for the NACGN’s goals among conventional nursing groups, other Black organizations, and the Black press. They were phenomenally successful. In 1933, the NACGN had only 175 members; by 1949, that number had grown to 947. One of their greatest achievements was their successful lobbying for an integrated Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II. This, in turn, produced a snowball effect; by the end of the war, all but a few state nurses associations admitted Blacks as members. Shortly after the war, the ANA suggested that it take over the functions of the NACGN “and that its program be expanded for the complete integration of Negro nurses.”

The ANA also agreed to continue awarding the Mary Mahoney Medal to the person or group contributing the most to inter-group relations. The NACGN had created that award in 1936, named for the nation’s first Black graduate nurse. So, in 1951, the NACGN did something rare in the history of bureaucracies: it declared victory and voted itself out of business and its members voted to merge with the American Nurses Association.

 

 

 

source: www.aaregistry.org

City of Miramar to unite community and law enforcement with “Let’s Talk”

City of Miramar to unite community and law enforcement with  “Let’s Talk”

Tensions between law enforcement and the community are still high with social media capturing tragic events of “police brutality” and hostile “protest” in certain regions across the globe. In an effort to aid communication between South Florida communities and local officers in highly concentrated Caribbean areas, the City of Miramar is taking action. The city says the number of negative encounters between citizens and its police force is low and they want to try and keep it low.

“An incident like Ferguson can happen in anytown USA from unfortunate interactions and altercations. As mayor I want to have a conversation to engage the community and inform residents about programs that the police department have to offer the community.”

On Thursday night, they are hosting a meeting for residents, business owners, activists, kids and their parents to discuss police stops and how to avoid confrontations that can become violent, among other topics. The event will be hosted by Mayor Wayne M. Messam, Police Chief Dexter Williams and clergy at Miramar City Hall from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“The city is looking to provide resources about what to do if a Miramar police officer was to pull you over and how to comply. A more educated and informed community will reduce the incidents that we have seen across the country. Chief Williams has taken the issue to the next level in trying to understand what the concerns are and address them.”

For those who will not be able to make it to the meeting will also be live streamed on the city’s Facebook page as well as the city’s cable channel on Comcast. Mayor Messam noted that residents are invited to post questions to social media with #LetsTalkMiramar

“As mayor of very diverse community, I understand the frustration of the community and concerns of the police department. I don’t have the leisure to pick a side, police officer versus resident or resident versus officer, my job is to unite the community. Law abiding residents should not feel intimidated by officers whose job it is to protect and serve.”

 

Mr. Vegas calls it Quits

Mr. Vegas calls it Quits

Jamaican music superstar, Mr. Vegas, has officially announced the forthcoming project, This Is Dancehall, his final dancehall album. The highly anticipated set is scheduled to be released September 23rd on the artist’s own MV Music record label and distributed worldwide by VP Associated Labels (VPAL).

Mr. Vegas, who celebrates his 20th anniversary in entertainment next year, admits it was a tough decision, but says his hand was forced by the current state of the industry.

“The days when dancehall acts were selling albums are basically over,” explains the artist and CEO.” It is very expensive to produce an album and most times, in this Internet era, you take a loss. The business is back to being more single driven so that is where I will be concentrating my efforts when it comes to dancehall.”

Part history lesson and part tribute, Mr. Vegas says the new album was inspired by the recent surge of dancehall-influenced records being played on major platforms around the world. “I also noticed mainstream artists were tapping heavily into the genre and not giving credit where credit is due. I’ve spent twenty years of my life making dancehall. This album kicks in the door, musically speaking, and claims our rightful seat at the table.”

 

 

TNT Olympian complains about team unity at Rio

Keshorn Walcott conquers world as youngest T&T javelin gold medalist

TNT Olympian complains about team unity at Rio

According to a CMC report Trinidad and Tobago’s 2012 Olympic javelin champion Keshorn Walcott won a bronze medal in the event in the Rio Olympics has been critical of the spirit and the element of unity in the T&T camp during the games which ended on August 21.

Walcott threw the javelin a distance of 85.38 metres on Saturday after German Thomas Rohler, who won gold with a top throw of 90.30m, while Kenyan Julius Yego took silver with an effort of 88.24m

Walcott told reporters, “We did not do so well as a team this year because honestly, for my part, we were not a team. We did not come together as a unit as in 2012,” he complained.

“I was young in 2012 and I was one of the younger ones and I saw the gelling of the team, but here it was not like that.”

Without calling names, the 23-year-old athlete said the leaders of his country’s delegation to Rio and not the athletes should be blamed for what he interpreted as the team’s lack of unity. “You need to be able to understand that for a team to be able to perform properly, you need to bring them together….., It is the environment. When you as a team do not feel everybody is together, (it) is like everybody is just concentrating on their own.”” said Walcott

Meanwhile, the country’s Chef de Mission Dr Ian Hypolite is coming under public criticism for his role as an analyst on ESPN during the games.

Walcott is scheduled to return to Trinidad and Tobago in l early September after competing in the Paris leg of the Diamond League on Saturday before travelling to compete in Zurich, Switzerland on September 1.

Jamaica Prime Minister on earthquake in Italy

Jamaica Prime Minister on earthquake in Italy

Jamaica’s Prime Minister  Andrew Holness, has conveyed Jamaica’s deepest sympathies to Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and the people of the Republic of Italy, in the wake of a devastating earthquake which has  so far killed at least 120 persons .

In his letter, Prime Minister Holness said Jamaica is praying for the people of Italy in their time of grief and sorrow.

“We join with the rest of the international community in extending our solidarity and support at this time”.

The Prime Minister expressed the hope that there will be a speedy recovery in affected areas and that the resilience of the people of Central Italy, will enable them to overcome the impact of this tragedy.

Early Wednesday a power earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 toppled homes and other buildings in a wide swath of medieval towns in central Italy .

Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, says dozens more were missing or feared dead .

 

 

Beck’s Beer company donates to save “Big Night in Little Haiti”

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 24th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

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:

A tropical wave may become a tropical depression in the next day or two while moving near the Leeward Islands and the Greater Antilles. According to the National Hurricane Center, Long-range models give the wave about a 70 percent chance of developing into a tropical system over the next five days and reaching the Gulf of Mexico.

It is moving westward at 10 to 15 miles per hour and is expected to head toward the southeastern and central Bahamas.

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake has hit Amatrice (Amah-three-che) in central Italy and rescuers are searching for survivors. CNN has reported 39 dead following aftershocks. European leaders have offered their condolences, and the Pope postponed his weekly catechesis to pray for victims.

Beck’s beer company has donated $20,000 in an effort to save the recently defunded monthly event “Big Night in Little Haiti”. Beck’s Urban Canvas partnered with South Florida nonprofit Rhythm Foundation to relaunch the free music and arts series which celebrates art, music, culture, and food every third Friday at the Little Haiti Cultural Center. The event, held since 2011, had run out of funds but now will bring that event back to the community.

Let’s take a look at sports:

Trinidad and Tobago took home a win during the opening day of the Caribbean Pre-Cadet Table Tennis Championship yesterday. The nation won the Under-13 Girls’ title at the National Indoor Sports Centre yesterday defeating Guyana 3 to1 and then Jamaica 3 to 0 to take the crown. Day Two of the championship began this morning at 10 and scheduled to end at 6 p.m. The competition will resume on Friday with individual games.

And now, here’s what’s trending:

Tonight, Sizzla Kalonji will perform for the first time eight years at Revolution live in Fort Lauderdale. The living legend has announced his long awaited return to the U.S earlier this month and will make his way through Florida with a 4 city mini-tour including Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa Bay.  Doors open at 6 pm and show time is at 9.

For today’s weather forecast:

mostly cloudy in Broward County with a high of 88 and a low of 79. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 87 and a low of 80.

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 Harvey.

Dub poet Linton Kwesi Johnson is born in Chapelton, Jamaica.

Linton Kwesi Johnson

On this day in History, August 24, 1952, Linton Kwei Johnson, better known as LKJ, was born in Chapelton, Jamaica. In 2002, the UK-based dub poet became the second living poet, and the only black poet, to be published in the Penguin Modern Classics series. His performance poetry involves the recitation of his own verse in Jamaican Patois over dub-reggae, usually written in collaboration with renowned British reggae producer/artist Dennis Bovell. Johnson’s middle name, “Kwesi”, is a Ghanaian name that is given to boys who are born on a Sunday.

Johnson’s poetry is mostly political and deals primarily with the experiences of being an African-Caribbean living in Britain. Johnson once said “Writing was a political act and poetry was a cultural weapon”. He has used his voice an power to discus tough issues as British foreign policy and the death of anti-racist marcher Blair Peach. Many believe that his most celebrated work was produced in the 1980’s under Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government. ‘Sonny’s Lettah’ and ‘Di Great Insohreckshan’ include recounts of police brutality on young black men and capture the unwritten attitude of resistance and antagonism with vivid descriptions of rioting and imprisonment.

In 1985, he was made Associate Fellow at Warwick University and Honorary Fellow at Wolverhampton Polytechnic in 1987. He is a broadcaster on the radio in the UK and even hosted an evening of Caribbean music and culture for BBC Radio 2 in October 2001.

Johnson now lives in Brixton, South London and a selection of his poetry, entitled “Mi Revalueshanary Fren”, was published in 2002 as a Penguin Classic edition with an introduction by Fred D’Aguiar. In 2005 he was awarded a Musgrave medal by the Institute of Jamaica for eminence in the field of poetry.

 

Jamaica partners with the United Kingdom for its underprivileged youth

 

The United Kingdom’s Department for International Development, has signed  grant agreement valued at J$20.7 million with Fight for Peace  – a non-governmental organisation that supports young people in communities plagued by crime and violence.

According to the junior minister of National Security Pearnel Charles junior, his Ministry plans to implement similar programmes aimed at preventing young people from getting involved in criminal activities.

Fight for Peace  – which has its headquarters in Brazil, is open to young people ages seven to 29 years who live in Corporate Area inner city communities that are targeted by the programme.

It uses boxing and martial arts combined with education employability, youth leadership and supporting services to help youth from these communities realize their potential.

The methodology has proven effective in Rio de Janerio and London by assisting 140 partner organisations in 25 countries to better service the young people in their communities.

This year, FPP opened an office in Kingston to expand its work in Jamaica and bring together a network of community-based organisations and national stakeholders.

The objective is to develop, test and codify a model for a collaborative approach to youth violence prevention that can be replicated in other communities and other countries.

 

 

 

 

 

Bolt issues warning to entities using his brand without authorization

Bolt issues warning to entities using his brand without authorization

A warning of legal action has been issued to entities that have been using the image of Jamaican sprinter, Usain Bolt.

The warning, from his company – UB Management Limited, was published in Sunday’s edition of the Gleaner newspaper.

The company noted that entities that have been using Bolt’s trademark and image to advertise products and services without authorization, could face legal action.

The statement, signed Norman Peart,  the head of UB Management Limited said activities have been resulting in loss and damage to Bolt’s reputation and business.

Peart noted that Bolt is the owner of the “To the World” pose and several trademarks that incorporate his name, nickname, signature, image and likeness.

It says Bolt’s image and trademarks should not be used to falsely represent any business or enterprise and the goods and services offered by those businesses or enterprises.

Persons have been warned to immediately cease the unauthorized use of Bolt’s intellectual property.

The warning was issued two days after Bolt made history, becoming the first man to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 100 and 200 metres, and the 4 x 100 metre relays.

 

 

Big Night in Little Haiti to return later this year

Becks beer company has donated $20,000 in an effort to save the recently defunded monthly event “Big Night in Little Haiti”. Becks Urban Canvas partnered with South Florida nonprofit Rhythm Foundation to relaunch the free music and arts series that celebrates art, music, culture, and food every third Friday at the Little Haiti Cultural Center.

Earlier this year, organizers announced that funding for the event, held since 2011, had run out; bringing one of the biggest events in the area to a close. This isn’t the first time that Becks Urban Canvas has supported the Little Haiti community; last summer, they showcased 12 local artists who were commissioned to create murals and installations throughout the area, which included Little Havana, Hialeah, and Wynwood.

“We are always looking for ways to foster and support local artists and communities in South Florida,” says Daniel Blake, Beck’s senior associate brand manager.

Big Night in Little Haiti started from grants awarded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, with the intention of it becoming a self-sustaining event. However, over the life of the event, the cost of production became too high and soon organizers were asking the community for donations to keep it alive. With the event closing in April of this year, Becks Urban Canvas has come to the rescue, bringing the night back to the community with an expected relaunch to happen later in the fall. The organizers are hoping to continue this again, as an annual series.

Usain Bolt, warns people against using his brand without authorization

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 23rd, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

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:

North Miami’s city council approved a plan to build a Chinatown arts and business district with Asian-owned commercial businesses, tech start-up companies, Chinese artwork and restaurants. Some residents say that the proposed district is outside of the unofficial Chinatown area and believe the area will focus more on strip malls rather than the high concentration of Asian immigrants living in the area.

The 35th International Reggae and World Music Awards is scheduled to be held at the Coral Springs Center on October 2. This year’s nominee’s for the Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year include: Beres Hammond, Ziggy Marley and Spice. Best Male Vocalist nominees include Christopher Martin, Nesbeth, and Tarrus Riley.

Let’s take a look at sports:

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers battled against the Ottawa Fury FC Saturday night scoring two goals in the second-half to pull away to a North American Soccer League win. Carl Howarth gained the second goal in the 28th minute and Italian striker, Amauri scored his second goal of the game in the 77th minute. However, an own goal by Rafael Alves gave the Strikers a win of 3-1.

And now, here’s what’s trending:

The management team of world recorder holder in the 100 and 200 meter run, Usain Bolt, issued a warning to violators of the athlete’s intellectual property rights. In a published statement, Bolt’s “UB Management team” says they will take legal action against people using his trademarks and image to advertise their products and services without authorization.

For today’s weather forecast:

Partly cloudy in Broward County with a high of 93 and a low of 78. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 90 and a low of 80.

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 the Goldson Spine and Rehabilitation Center, who reminds you “After a car accident, Call Goldson Spine.”

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

Foot care tips to keep vacationers on the go

Foot care tips to keep vacationers on the go

Clothing, passport, toiletries, accessories – when you travel you have a lot of important items to fit into your suitcase. But two of the most essential ingredients in an enjoyable vacation don’t go in your luggage: your own feet. Whether you’re walking on a sandy beach or strolling through a bustling marketplace, healthy feet that feel and look great can make the journey much more enjoyable.

Here are foot care tips to help get your feet travel-ready:

Before you go

If your vacation is to a warm destination where you’ll spend time in sandals and flip flops, treating yourself to a pre-trip pedicure can help your feet look their best. Be sure to choose a reputable salon and bring your own instruments. Remember, toenails should always be trimmed straight across and never let anyone cut your cuticles.

You can also take care of unsightly and uncomfortable toe and foot fungus infections before you go. Over-the-counter treatments like Fungi-Nail(R) Toe & Foot(R) can quickly and easily help clear up toe and foot fungus and athlete’s foot. The product begins killing fungus on contact and helps stop it from spreading. ClearGuard moisture block technology ensures the medicine will stay on your feet, no matter how much you sweat or how often you dip in the water. You can also use Nailner(R) for healthy, brighter nails fast. Nailner is a convenient pen that whitens discolored fungal nails with results you can see in just seven days. An eight-week consumer trial showed Nailner is effective in reducing nail thickness.

While you may be tempted to only pack cute flip flops for your beach trip, and impressive fashion boots for cooler locales, keep comfort in mind, too. Walking in uncomfortable shoes can cause blisters and chafing; sore feet can really dim your enjoyment of vacation. Never take brand new shoes on vacation. Instead pack a few pairs of comfortable shoes made of breathable, natural materials and try to stick with a lower, cushioned sole.

Finally, pack a foot care kit that includes bandages for covering minor cuts and scrapes, antibiotic cream, an emollient-enriched moisturizer, an anti-fungal (like Fungi-Nail), blister pads, an oral anti-inflammatory medication to ease tired and swollen feet, Nailner nail renewal pen to keep your nails looking whiter and brighter while at your destination, sunscreen and sunburn cream.

On the move

While on vacation, change socks daily to help reduce the risk of fungal infection. You should also avoid walking barefoot in public places like pools, locker rooms and showers. If you pick up a fungal infection while traveling, treat it promptly to prevent it from spreading.

If your feet will be exposed to the sun on the beach, remember to apply sunscreen to them too. Since feet can swell in hot climates, be sure to drink plenty of water that will help keep you hydrated and minimize swelling.

It is important to choose footwear that’s appropriate for the type of activity you’ll be doing each day. It’s normal for feet to feel a little tired and sore after a long day of walking around seeing the sights. But, if serious pain occurs or your feet continue to hurt even after you’ve returned home, you should talk to your doctor.

For more information about how Fungi-Nail eliminates and stops the spread of toe and foot fungus, or regarding Nailner nail renewal pen visit www.funginail.com or fn-nailner.com.

 

 

 

brandpointcontent.com

This Day in History: Bunny “Striker” Lee was born

bunny lee

On this day, August 23, 1941, Edward O’Sullivan better known by the name Bunny “Striker” Lee, a Jamaican record producer and one of the major forces in the Jamaican music industry was born.

Bunny Lee grew up in the Greenwich Farm area of Kingston, where his father was a shoemaker Lee began his career working as a record plugger for Duke Reid’s Treasure Isle label in 1962, later performing the same duties for Leslie Kong. He then moved on to work with Ken Lack, initially in an administrative role, before taking on engineering duties. Lee then moved into producing (i.e. financing) records himself, his first hit record coming with Roy Shirley’s “Music Field” on WIRL in 1967. Lee then set up his own Lee’s label, the first release being Lloyd Jackson’s “Listen to the Beat”. He produced further hits during 1967–68 by Lester Sterling and Stranger Cole, Derrick Morgan, Slim Smith and The Uniques (“My Conversation”), Pat Kelly, and The Sensations, establishing him as one of Jamaica’s top producers. Between 1969 and 1972 he produced classic hits including Slim Smith’s “Everybody Needs Love”, Max Romeo’s “Wet Dream”, Delroy Wilson’s “Better Must Come”, Eric Donaldson’s “Cherry Oh Baby”, and John Holt’s “Stick By Me”.

Lee was a pioneer of the United Kingdom reggae market, licensing his productions to the Palmer Brothers (Pama) and Trojan Records in the early 1970s.

The mid-1970s saw Lee work with his most successful singer, Johnny Clarke, as well as Owen Gray and Cornell Campbell, and along with Lee “Scratch” Perry, he broke the dominance of Coxsone Dodd and Duke Reid. This era also saw the emergence of the “flying cymbal” sound on Lee’s productions, developed by drummer Carlton ‘Santa’ Davis, with Lee’s session band, The Aggrovators.

Lee was instrumental in producing early dub music, working with his friend and dub pioneer King Tubby in the early 1970s. Lee and Tubby were experimenting with new production techniques which Lee described as “implements of sound.” Working with equipment that today would be considered primitive and limiting, they produced tracks that consisted of mostly the rhythm parts mixed with distorted or altered versions of a song.

1...1,4261,4271,428...1,545Page 1,427 of 1,545