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This Day in History: Marcus Garvey was born

This Day in History: Marcus Garvey was born

On this day, August 17, 1887, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, a Jamaican political leader, publisher, journalist, entrepreneur, and orator who was a proponent of the Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism movements, was born in St. Ann.

At 14 years old, Garvey became a printer’s apprentice. In 1903, he traveled to Kingston, Jamaica, and became involved in union activities. In 1907, he took part in an unsuccessful printer’s strike and the experience gave him a new found passion for political activism. Three years later, he traveled throughout Central America working as an newspaper editor and writing about the exploitation of migrant workers in the plantations. He later traveled to London where he attended Birkbeck College, now called the University of London, and worked for the African Times and Orient Review, which advocated for Pan-African nationalism.

Garvey was active in the United States from 1916-1925 and advocated for racial separation and emigration of American-Africans to Africa. He was the founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and founded the Black Star Line, a steamship company owned and operated by blacks to link black communities around the world. The Black Business Network is inspired by the vision and accomplishments of Garvey. 

By 1919, Marcus Garvey and UNIA had launched the Black Star Line, a shipping company that would establish trade and commerce between Africans in America, the Caribbean, South and Central America, Canada and Africa. At the same time, Garvey started the Negros Factories Association, a series of companies that would manufacture marketable commodities in every big industrial center in the Western hemisphere and Africa.

In August 1920, UNIA claimed 4 million members and held its first International Convention at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Before a crowd of 25,000 people from all over world, Marcus Garvey spoke of having pride in African history and culture. Many found his words inspiring, however, some black leaders found his separatist philosophy to be one of controversy. W.E.B. Du Bois, a prominent black leader and officer of the NAACP called Garvey, “the most dangerous enemy of the Negro race in America.”

Marcus Garvey died in London in 1940. In 1964, his remains were exhumed and taken to Jamaica where the government proclaimed him Jamaica’s first national hero enshrined him in the National Heroes Park. His message of pride and dignity inspired many in the early days of the Civil Rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s. In tribute to his many contributions, Garvey’s bust has been displayed in the Organization of American States’ Hall of Heroes in Washington, D.C. The country of Ghana has named its shipping line the Black Star Line and its national soccer team the Black Stars, in honor of Garvey.

Shaunae Miller ‘dives’ to victory in the Women’s 400m

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 16th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW90, I’m Jahlisa Harvey.

Today’s news is brought to you by Goldson Spine Rehabilitation Center. Who reminds you, “After a Car accident, Call Goldson Spine.”

Here’s a look at our top stories.

Ahead of celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago to mark the nation’s 54th anniversary of political independence from Great Britain, members of the Diaspora will recognize the achievements of the twin island republic by hosting the 14th anniversary Independence ball in South Florida. The event, scheduled for August 20th, will be addressed by Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Tourism, Shamfa Cudjoe. Trinidad and Tobago gained Independence on August 31, 1962.

Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness is being backed by Democratic congressman Alcee Hastings. Hastings, who is from Miramar, is endorsing Holness in the election scheduled for August 30 primary against challenger, state senator Chris Smith. In show of his support, Hasting gave a $1,000 dollar contribution to his campaign.

Music lovers in South Florida can now vote for their favorite nominee in this year’s International Reggae and World Music Awards. By submitting votes online or through the mail, music fans worldwide have the final say in the selection of the winners. All mail-in ballots must be postdated by September 8 which is the official deadline.

In Sports,

Trinidad and Tobago’s Michelle-Lee Ah-yee topped the Caribbean qualifiers while veteran Jamaican sprinter Veronica Campbell-Brown crashed out of the women’s 200 meters yesterday at the Olympic Games. Ah-yee was the fourth fastest in qualifying with 22 point 50 seconds, ahead of Olympic 100 metre champion Elaine Thompson of Jamaica and her teammate Simone Facey .

Let’s take a look at what’s trending

Shaunae Miller of the Bahamas produced a desperate dive at the line to edge World champion Allyson Felix in a dramatic finish to the women’s 400 meter final. Miller’s win has made history as the Bahamas first individual Olympic gold medal in 12 years and only their third overall in the Rio Olympics. Jamaican, Shericka Jackson, finished with bronze in a time of 49 point  85 seconds.

For today’s weather forecast:

Partly cloudy in Broward County with a high of 89 and a low of 77. Scattered Thunderstorm in Miami-Dade, with a high of 87 and a low of 01.

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 Goldson Spine Rehabilitation Center. Who reminds you, “After a Car accident, Call Goldson Spine.”

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

The wait is over, Sizzla to perform in SoFlo next week

Sizzla Kalonji to perform in SoFlo for the First Time in 8 Years

When news of the Grammy nominated Reggae artist, Sizzla Kalonji, gaining entrance into the U.S was announced, social media was full of fans highly anticipated for him to announce a performance schedule. His return to the U.S after getting his Visa renewed last month drew buzz to whether he would perform at the Reggae on the River Festival in California, which he did.

Sizzla, born Miguel Collins, and The Fire House Band will make their way to the East Coast starting in Florida with a four city mini-tour including stops in Ft.

Lauderdale, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa Bay. Ft. Lauderdale fans will have the opportunity to be the first to see Sizzla after his U.S hiatus inside Revolution Live (America’s Backyard). Doors to the concert open at 6 p.m., with show time starting at 9 p.m.

“This will be the highest anticipated show for any Reggae artist next to Buju Banton’s final performance in Miami before his sentencing. The fans are yearning for Kalonji, and we’re proud to bring him to Florida,” said event organizer, Drew Minott.

The living legend has 70 albums under his belt, with his first musical steps as a singer for Caveman Hi-Fi, his energetic style and spiritual lyrics earned him acclaim with his 1995 debut album “Burning Up”, while the 1997 follow-up “Black Woman & Child” was an international breakthrough. Tickets for the event are available at local Caribbean ticket outlets, Revolution Live Box Office, and can also be purchased online via Ticketmaster.

Bolt, Triple Threat

Jamaican sprint superstar Usain Bolt completed the first phase of an ambitious “triple-triple” at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games when he sensationally won the men’s 100 metres final in Rio on Sunday night.

Competing in his final Olympic Games, the 29-year-old battled back from a bad start to win his third consecutive gold medal in a modest season-best 9.81 seconds, to become the first athlete to win a hat-trick of Olympic titles in the event.

He finished ahead of American rival Justin Gatlin who clocked 9.89 to grab silver while Andre de Grasse of Canada sped to 9.91 for the bronze.

Yohan Blake of Jamaica finished fourth in a season best 9.93.

The time was the slowest of all Bolt’s Olympic triumphs after he clocked 9.69 seconds for his first 100m title at Beijing 2008 and lowered the time to 9.63 at London 2012.

The win brings Bolt closer to his goal of winning the 100m, 200m and the 4x100m relay in three consecutive Olympic Games.

“The start wasn’t as good as I wanted but after the semis I was a lot more confident. I knew I got a bad start but I told myself, ‘don’t panic, take your time’,” he said afterward.

“I knew Justin was going to have a good start but I told myself to take my time and chip away the lead. After the semi-finals I was confident I could win this one.”

Bolt described Gatlin as an outstanding athlete who brought competitiveness to the field.

“He is a great athlete without a doubt. He always pushes me to run fast. He makes you be at your best at all times,” Bolt said of the American, the champion in Athens 2004 and the world-leader this year.

Bolt has won every major global 100m and 200m titles since 2008 except at the World Championships in 2011 when he disqualified for a false start.

 

Get adventurous before busy fall routines set in

Get adventurous before busy fall routines set in with these 5 fun family activities

Summer is fleeting and schedules are filling up quickly, so take advantage of the free time you have to partake in fun activities with those you love the most: your family. It’s tempting to stick to the same routine of going to the local playground, taking in a movie or playing in the backyard. Why not try some new experiences this year and go on a family adventure? These five activities are fun for the whole family and will help create lasting memories together. Incorporate a couple (or all five!) ideas into your schedule to finish summer with a bang and begin fall on a fun note.

Take in a variety of wildlife at the zoo.

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! You don’t have to be a child to marvel at the unique and awe-inspiring beauty of our world’s wildlife. Frito-Lay 2 Go (FL2Go) is partnering with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to encourage families to get out and enjoy unique animal experiences. By visiting an AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium, you’ll be supporting their conservation efforts to save endangered animals from extinction – all while having an unforgettable time with your family. To find a free kid’s pass, head to your local grocery store and look for FL2Go packages featuring a tiger, panda, monkey, elephant or penguin. Then visit aza.fritolay2.com to upload the receipt and find your closest AZA facility.

Go kayaking and plan a picnic by the water.

Forget the open road, and hit the open water instead this summer! Kayaking is a fun, active adventure. Soak in the sun and cool breeze, relish in the relaxed environment and enjoy a quiet moment or two with the kids.

When you’re done, extend your time by the water and have a family picnic. Pack a lunch of sandwiches and your favorite chips to refuel.

Spend a night star gazing to look for constellations.

Before the sun goes down, take some time to learn about the various constellations, and have everyone in the family select their favorite one. Then, in the evening, lay out a blanket in your backyard for a night of star gazing, and see who can spot their favorite constellation.

To amplify the adventure, turn the night into a backyard camping trip, complete with a tent, campfire and songs.

Stop by the local animal shelter to take friendly pups on a walk.

The best part of volunteering is anyone at any age can make a difference! Schedule a family trip to your local animal shelter to spend the afternoon walking dogs, playing with cats and more! Time with a few furry friends will brighten everyone’s day and you can feel good knowing you brightened their day, too.

Pick your own apples before baking a mouth-watering pie.

When the temperature starts to drop and the leaves begin to turn colors, embrace the changing of seasons by visiting your local apple orchard. A delicious day trip, apple orchards often offer a wide range of family fun activities, such as hay rides and petting zoos, to make the apple-picking experience that much more enjoyable. After you return home, continue the family time in the kitchen by baking a homemade apple pie!

Hectic fall schedules will be in full swing before you know it, so take advantage of the time you have now to go on a family adventure and create fun-filled memories. Visit fritolay2go.com for more family-friendly activities.

 

 

 

 

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This Day in History: Trinidadian, Hasely Crawford was born

Trinidadian, Hasely Crawford was born

On this day in Caribbean history, August 16, 1950, Hasely Joachim Crawford, the first Olympic champion from Trinidad and Tobago, was born in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago.

Crawford started running track at 17 and competed in the 1972 Munich Olympic Games at the age of 22. In 1976, while competing in the Montreal Olympic Games, he won the Gold medal in the 100 meter sprint, the first Gold medal won by an athlete from Trinidad and Tobago ever. Crawford also competed for his country at the 1980 Moscow and 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. After these Games, Crawford met with further success, winning the 100 meter event at the Central American and Caribbean Championships in 1977.

During his reign as the 100 metre Olympic champion, he also appeared on postage stamps and was awarded Trinidad and Tobago’s highest honour, Trinity Cross, in 1978.This award was changed to the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Crawford went on to compete in a total of four Olympic Games as he also represented T&T at both the Moscow and Los Angeles editions in 1980 and 1984, but was unable to qualify for another final.

In 2000, Crawford was named the Trinidad and Tobago Athlete of the Millennium. The Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain was named in his honor in 2001. He is a member of the Caribbean Hall of Fame, along with Ato Boldon and Artur Wint, one of only three track and field athletes to be inducted.

After his reign, Keshorn Walcott won Gold in the 2012 Olympics in London.

Usain Bolt is aiming for the “TRIPLE-TRIPLE”

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 15th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Today’s news is brought to you by Goldson Spine Rehabilitation Center. Who reminds you, “After a Car accident, Call Goldson Spine.”

Here’s a look at our top stories.

Mayor Carlos Gimenez of Miami-Dade County has sent a letter to Florida Governor, Rick Scott, asking for the state to pay back the money spent fighting the Zika virus. Mayor Gimenez is asking to be reimbursed for things including aerial and ground spraying as well as outreach efforts to the public. The Center for Disease Controls sent the state close to $36 million in funds to be used to help in the fight, and Miami-Dade County so far as received some $300,000 of that. Govenor Scott’s office says that they have been in contact with Gilbert and a resolution will be reached.

According to a recent Migration Policy Institute report, during the first two quarters of fiscal year 2016, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services received 440,000 applications for naturalization. Researchers believe this is due to the Obama Administration encouraging immigrants to become U.S. citizens to vote in the 2016 presidential election. The application level represented a 21 percent increase over the 365,000 applications submitted during the same timeframe last year.

UB40 and Jomersa Marley will be performing at the Pompano Beach Amphitheater tonight starting at 8 pm. UB40 is known for their global reggae and pop songs such as “Red Red Wine” and “Falling In Love With You”. Opening the show will be special Guest, JoMersa Marley. Doors open at 7 pm.

In Sports,

Team Jamaica made history this weekend in Track and field events. Sprinter, Elaine Thompson became the second Jamaican to win Olympic gold in the women’s 100 meter after clocking 10.72 seconds becoming the fastest women in the world. Sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the 2008 and 2012 Olympic champion clocked 10.86 to come in third place winning the bronze medal.

Let’s take a look at what’s trending

Usain Bolt has defended his title as the fastest man alive with his time of 9.81 seconds becoming the first Olympian to win the event three times in a row. During an interview post-race Bolt said he is aiming for a “triple-triple” by adding the 200 meter and 4 x 100 meter titles to his collection.

For today’s weather forecast:

Scattered thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 90 and a low of 78. Scattered Thunderstorm in Miami-Dade, with a high of 88 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 Goldson Spine Rehabilitation Center. Who reminds you, “After a Car accident, Call Goldson Spine.”

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

Third World Drummer to perform at Broward College, August 20

Third World Drummer to perform at Broward College

Just in time for back to school, next Saturday, August 20, starting at 3:30 p.m., former Third World drummer and percussionist, Willie Stewart, will be sharing his views on music and society while you take an up close look and an interactive approach during this musical event. The free event, held at the South Regional Broward College (BC) Library in Pembroke Pines, will offer the first 100 participants a hands on drumming experience, but Stewart reassures us that everyone will have an instrument to help contribute to turning “beats into rhythms, and rhythms into music.”

“We’ll practice some beats, play some percussion, and let the music set the tone for the way we should live together, it’s important to communities.” says Stewart. “That is why I am fighting as an advocate to bring the arts back to the schools because it keeps kids balanced. They can relate to music quickly and they need a place to express this, it would make a difference in their lives.”

Visitors are invited to experience the thrill of playing drums as Willie guides you in all things drumming. Stewart is working to initiate a program that will create an environment between local law enforcement and the community to use music as a tool to level the playing field. He says “Music unites everyone, it is a fabric that unites them because people try something new and whether they are skilled or not, people always end up laughing.”

Stewart say this event will have people feeling energized mentally, spiritually, and physically. They will definitely have a feeling of rejuvenation.

“Drumming brings out the best in us; where we all can work together to achieve a common goal. It teaches us the importance of team building and harmony and is the fabric the glue that brings people together, families closer in a very special way.”

– Willie Stewart

This event is brought to you by the Broward County Library, and the Friends of South Regional-BC Library in collaboration with the Embrace Music Foundation. For more information visit broward.org/library

Empowerment group, Black Girl Magic, to hold launch party

 

Empowerment group, Black Girl Magic, to hold launch party

Black Girl Magic Florida, an initiative of the Mosaic Group will hold their launch party on August 19 starting at 6 pm at 1st Klass Café in Pembroke Pines. All women of color and those who support them are invited to attend, to collectively celebrate black women.

Black Girl Magic exists to empower, inspire, educate, collaborate and give back while honoring the achievement, beauty, and strength among black women in Florida and beyond. The organization has a charitable mission of funding nonprofit organizations and causes with a focus on women and girls of color. Members can donate $250 annually, pool their funds and vote to award multiple grants to local nonprofits and causes with annual revenues less than $250,000 and are based in the State of Florida.

“It is important to highlight the accomplishments and successes of black women throughout our state while forming relationships, opportunities for growth and collaboration, and the pooling of resources to support some (of) our most impactful yet underfunded charitable initiatives. Black Girl Magic Florida serves as the vehicle to accomplish these things.” says Ann-Marie Sorrell, CEO of the Mosaic Group and Founder of Black Girl Magic Florida.

The upcoming launch marks the second in Florida, with the first held in May 2016 in West Palm Beach with over 200 women in attendance.

The Black Girl Magic Florida Broward Edition launch party will feature Jill Tracey from HOT 105.1 FM as the guest host, and Atlanta’s renown DJ Empress Rah on the turntables. The event is free to attend and vendor and sponsorship opportunities are available.

 

Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister visits doctors in Miami

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley

The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago,  Dr. Keith Rowley is has been undergoing a series of  medical tests at a health clinic in Miami, amid widespread speculation that he is seriously ill and calls by opposition parliamentarians for him to disclose the status of his health.

Prime Minister Rowley, 66, who is on a two week vacation in the United States has acknowledged that for the past 35 years he has managed his health issues through diligent and disciplined guidance from his chosen doctors at home and in California.

“I have been regularly, even annually (been) reviewed by them (doctors) over the years. This occasion is hardly different except that as a result of the intensity of my activities during the last 36 months or so I have not kept my annual appointments until recently.

“I did my examinations locally and the results were transmitted to my doctors abroad. There have appeared to be some changes which both sets of doctors conclude should be investigated further. That is what I am here for and that is what I have referred to when I spoke to the public about travel and health as well as vacation,” Rowley said in a text message to the Trinidad Express newspaper.

He said that while he is “very heartened by the outpourings of empathy and prayers which have been voluntarily directed towards me and my family from a wide cross section of the population…I am with family who are in the medical field here in California and I check into a clinic on Monday for the examinations as mentioned.

Rowley became Prime Minister in September last year after leading the People’s National Movement (PNM), into office.

 

This Day in History: Contingent of U.S Troops leave Haiti

On this day in history, August 15, 1934, the last contingent of American troops left Haiti. The occupation officially which lasted 19 years and four days ended on August 1, 1934. This came after President Franklin D. Roosevelt reaffirmed an August 1933 disengagement agreement and on the 15th, a formal transfer of authority to the Garde d’haiti, the power to take over control of the government, allowed Haiti to again become an independent nation.

In 1930, Sténio Vincent, a long-time critic of the occupation, was elected President. By 1930, President Hoover had become concerned about the effects of the occupation, particularly after the December 1929 incident in Les Cayes. Hoover appointed a commission to study the situation, with William Cameron Forbes as the chair.

The Forbes Commission praised the material improvements that the U.S. administration had achieved, but it criticized the continued exclusion of Haitian nationals from positions of real authority in the government and the constabulary, which had come to be known as the Garde d’Haïti. The commission asserted that “the social forces that created [instability] still remain – poverty, ignorance, and the lack of a tradition or desire for orderly free government.”

The Hoover administration did not fully implement the recommendations of the Forbes Commission; but United States withdrawal was under way by 1932, when Hoover lost the presidency to Franklin D. Roosevelt. Roosevelt was a proponent of the “Good Neighbor policy” for the US role in the Caribbean and Latin America. On a visit to Cap-Haïtien in July 1934, Roosevelt reaffirmed an August 1933 disengagement agreement. The U.S. retained influence on Haiti’s external finances until 1947.

The occupation by the United States had several significant effects on Haiti. An early period of unrest culminated in a 1918 rebellion by up to 40,000 former cacos and other members of the opposition. The scale of the uprising overwhelmed the Gendarmerie, but US Marine reinforcements helped put down the revolt. An estimated 2,000 Haitians were killed in the fighting. The positive effects the the occupation held on the nation was helping Port-au-Prince to become the first Caribbean city to have a phone service with automatic dialing. Agricultural education was organized, with a central school of agriculture and 69 farms in the country.

Jamaica Diaspora 20 under 40: Tajay Higgins: The Baller

The Baller

Tajay Higgins 25, who was born in Jamaica and recently made South Florida his home, contributes sports, and soccer in particular, as the engine that has promulgated him from a tough community in St. James, Jamaica to be close to attaining a master’s degree at St. Thomas University in North Miami, and a career in sports administration.

Tajay said he owes everything in his young life to soccer, a game he loves passionately. “Soccer has enabled me, through scholarships to come to the US where I successfully pursued and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and pursue the master’s degree. Sports is such a positive influence. It has taught me discipline, time management and has other positive influences on my life.”

He said he can’t remember when he didn’t love soccer. “I played the game almost daily growing up and always saw soccer in his future.” He said playing for the Herbert Morrison Technical High School in Montego Bay, and the St. Elizabeth Technical High School 2009 Dacosta Cup Championship team, he had dreams of advancing his soccer career as a talented defender (center back), but fate stepped in. “Last year I experienced a very serious knee injury, which took me out of the game. This made me rethink my future, leading me to focus on a career in sports administration rather than as a soccer player. While I may be able to play soccer again after completing therapy on the knee, there’s no guarantee how effective ‘ll be able to play. I can however gain substantially, and make great contributions, especially to the youth here in the US and in Jamaica, in sports management.”

December 2016 is Higgins target date to graduate with his advanced degree. He says he plans to take a year off from his other goal to pursue a doctoral degree, and finalize the course and exams to obtain his coaching license. He is currently the coach of Hochberg Preparatory School soccer team in Miami and the Miami Lakes Soccer Club. However, his ambition is to also coach more advanced teams. The Hochberg team won the Jewish League Championship in May.

One of his long term goals is to one day develop and own his own soccer team. In the meantime he plans on remaining in the US after graduation and use his qualification in sport administration to build soccer to be a major sport. Tajay is passionate in his belief that sports has the potential for the positive development of youth. “Look where sports took me. It takes great effort and commitment, put sports can bring a lots of benefit in one’s life.”

He says through sport in Jamaica, the US, including his part-time job in the sports department of St. Thomas University he has met several outstanding sports personalities who have a positive influence on his life. “I firmly believe a lot more can be done for the youth through soccer, or any other sport, to enable them to live better and more productive lives. There are many positive influences in sports.”

According to Tajay who struggled economically as a youth in Jamaica, this aspect of his Jamaican heritage gave him a special drive to succeed. “As a Jamaican, like most Jamaicans, I believe there are  alternative path to reaching my goal. Soccer is my chosen path to success.”

Reiterating his gratitude for the opportunities soccer presented him, Taye advises the youth saying “When you work hard for something like I did in playing soccer,  you really cherish what you have gained.”

Jamaica Diaspora 20 under 40: Shawn ‘Ikaro’ Taylor: The Musician

Jamaicans are known for their love of music, but Shawn took this to another level. Rather than sit by and listen, he decided to nurture and grow his talents from a young age. He always saw himself as a superstar who enjoys performing and entertaining people.

“I was always a lover of great sounding music. From a young age, music was always a part of who I was and still is today. I started singing and writing my own lyrics at the age of 13.”

Ikaro has performed at local venues in South Florida including Top Hop Gardens in Fort Lauderdale receiving an outpouring of support form the patrons. He has been inspired from many different channels, but has never strayed too far from his true love, music. Ikaro encourages members of the Diaspora to “Never give up on their dreams. There will be obstacles along the way but just stay the course and work hard.”

When asked what makes him a proud Jamaican-American, he replied “Our heritage and culture. Our foods, and music is so exotic that people all over the world want to experience it. I am proud to tell anyone, everywhere I go, that I’m Jamaican, without any hesitation.”

He says that when it comes to his music, he doesn’t claim to know it all. “Influences drawn from my Jamaican heritage is one that I take pride in. Our heritage is rich especially in music so I listen to those before my time, like the different sounds and melodies and incorporate them in my music today.”

Ikaro has recorded a few singles in the past but is mostly looking forward to his latest single titled ‘Crown’ to be released soon featuring Gerry Raziel.

Jamaica Diaspora 20 under 40: Attorney Yanique L. Otto: The Motivated Attorney

The Motivated Attorney

Inspiration can come from the smallest and most unlikely things. Yanique Otto got her motivation for the career she enjoys so much from a television show.

“I chose law because I see it as an opportunity to serve the needs of my community, while at the same time ensuring a good living for myself and my family. I used to watch a lot of Law and Order and Matlock, and I just believed I could do that too!”

Born and raised in Jamaica, Otto attended Utech and University West Indies before migrating to the United States in 2002 leaving her brother and parents.

Otto came to the U.S with a goal to be the best she could and that she did. She has a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology, a Juris Doctorate in Law, and is a member of the Florida Bar with a Certification in Family Law from the Florida Supreme Court.

The mother of one says her most memorable moment as an attorney was helping a father to spend time with his 4 year old son after he and the mother broke up.

“He had the child outside wedlock, and the mother refused to allow him timesharing. He tried to represent himself in court and was not having success establishing paternity, due to some legal hurdles he did not know how to overcome. I believe both parents should have equal rights to timesharing, regardless of what happened between them, so helping him achieve this was exhilarating!”

Yanique is creating a name for herself by creating a site called PeacefulDivorce.com We help people to navigate their divorce processes without need for court intervention.

“This initiative makes me especially proud, because many times individuals believe that the only way to complete a divorce is through a combative process of litigation. This helps the clients same money and time, and most importantly, reduces the emotional stress which can be associated with the divorce process.”

Body cameras considered for Miami Gardens police

Body cams being considered for Miami Gardens police

Subject to cost finalization, the City of Miami Gardens could soon equip its police officers with body cameras, devices being worn increasingly by officers in police departments nationwide, as a means of alleviating rising conflicts between police and residents.

Recently, City Manager Cameron Benson and city staff members participated in a workshop to discuss the technology of the cameras, and has moved on to consider the funding to assign them to the city police department. According to reports among the possible sources are a city $60 million general obligation bond, general fund money or other grants. Benson believes the cost of the cameras could be included in $10 million of the city bond funds that has been earmarked to improve police technology in the city’s police department, but has to get approval for the purchase of the camera’s to be included.

The staff estimates the cameras to cost an average of $2,250 each. However, there could be additional costs related to the maintenance and storage of the equipment. A more comprehensive estimate of the cost of the cameras are to be submitted to the City Council by the end of September.

Residents are anxious for city police to wear the cameras on their uniforms to record activities while they apprehend suspected law offenders. Lofton Murray, a city baker, said “Whilst these cameras are regarded as a deterrent to unnecessary abuse by police, I also think they could be a deterrent to crime, as the camera would be a means of identifying criminal suspects.”

It has also been reported that Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert is anxious for the cameras to be assigned to the police department, and has indicated he would support a gradual phasing in of the cameras to ease the budgetary concerns. Mayor Gilbert also believes the cameras could have a positive effect on the behavior of residents as well as aid better policing.

Several other South Florida police departments are currently considering implementing the use of the body cameras, while police departments in Hallandale Beach, Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County have already approved them.

Jamaica Diaspora 20 under 40: Letoya Boyne: The Visionary

The Visionary

Thirty-two year old LeToya Boyne (Stairs), born in New York to Jamaican Americans, is proud of being a Jamaican-American. The Lauderdale Lakes resident is a Marketing Communications Consultant, and owner of Carnival Stockings and Carnival Pop Up Shop in Miami.

LeToya graduated from Florida State University with a BA in Communications and Media Studies, and an MS in Commications, Advertising/Public Relations from Florida International University. Her master’s thesis was focused on the Jamaican Diaspora.

She is very interested in the positive relationships between the Diaspora and Jamaica. In 2013, she participated in the Jamaica Diaspora Conference in Montego Bay. She says that she loves the eclectic Jamaican culture which has transformed her to be a “devoted cultural enthusiast.”

Following her graduation from FIU, and while facilitating Publix’s marketing presence at the Oprah Live the Life You Want tour in Miami, she met the iconic communicator Oprah Winfrey; one of the persons who inspires her most.  Another memorable moment in her career came when she opened her businesses out of her love for Carnival. In 2014 she began CarnvalStockings.com, and in 2015 Carnival Pop Up Shop Miami.

Although she has worked with Fortune 100 organizations implementing interesting projects “and influencing business partnerships galore, most importantly I am proud of my own business launches.”

Completing four internships prior to completing her undergraduate degree helped her decide on a marketing career. “I have always been curious about the very interesting differences and similarities in people and how that impacts our ability to communicate with one another.

She advises youth in the Diaspora “to spend time early exposing and exploring who you are. Nowadays for many professions you definitely don’t need a traditional (and expensive) degree to learn new skills or create business opportunities. Use your resources and think big, early! Believe you are chosen and deserve great things and don’t be fearful of perusing them.”

LeToya has been definitely inspired by her Jamaican heritage. She sums up her love and pride of her heritage , simply: “Life’s too short not to be Jamaican”.

 

 

Jamaica Diaspora 20 under 40: Jessica Cameron: The Communicator

 

The 22 year-old was born in Miami. Both her parents were born and raised in Jamaica, and she currently resides in Tampa, Florida where she is pursuing a double Bachelors/Masters Degree in Language, Speech and Hearing with a focus on Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD), and Sociology with a focus on Identity and Community, at the University of South Florida.

Prior to attending USF, Jessica attended Miami-Dade College where she served as President of the Florida Caribbean Students Association. She describes one of the more memorable moments of her youth as the last day of the FCSA‘s 40th Leadership Conference. “l learned much about myself and the importance of community, while learning how to produce large scale functions and events. This moment empowered me to journey paths I never envisioned for myself.”

She later advanced to the position of Vice-President for the statewide organization FCSA, where she contributed to important discussions that pertain to the dynamic lives of the students she met with. One discussion during a general meeting at Miami Dade College by Tropical Beat, CSA, was on the subject of colorism or skin bleaching that lead to an enlightened conversation on cultural norms, self-love, and the need for youth to have more confidence in themselves.

Having great value for communication and always encouraging others to try and express themselves in all situations, “I think I have the opportunity to give people their voices! Unfortunately, this is not a very diverse field, being predominately practiced by White women. I hope to make waves in the comradery of minority Speech Pathologists…specifically in the treatment of minority cultures in America.”

Jessica wants to encourage youth in the Jamaican Diaspora to understand that no matter what, they should be conscious of their capabilities. Jessica plans on continuing on to obtain her Ph.D. in CSD.

Jessica sees her Jamaican heritage reflected in nearly all aspects her life, from the food she eats, to her life’s perspective. “Jamaica has been the greatest influence on the woman I am today. Fortunately, my love for culture and my being able to relate to life as a Jamaican-American makes me want to focus my future research and practice on people of the Caribbean.”

 

National Weekly August 11, 2016

Annual Labor Day Weekend performances of Oliver Samuels

Annual Labor Day Weekend performances of Oliver Samuels moves to a bigger venues in South Broward

From Belgium, to Costa Rica and recently the Dutch isles, Jamaica’s Oliver Samuels seems to be carrying the torch of Caribbean theater all over the world. Florida residents will get six shows from Samuels this year for the Annual Labor Day weekend offering fans the ability to secure a seat to the performance.

When asked for a comment, Whirlwind’s Live Performances CEO responded, “Naturally, we are disappointed that our home base of South Florida only got three shows but as patriotic Jamaicans and lovers of the arts, we are thankful that Oliver’s marketability continues to grow so we know we have to share with our neighboring communities.” When probed about how his Company has handled such exponential growth of the years, he continued “We haven’t been perfect, for example, we acknowledge that they were long lines to get in to the shows over the last two years and we have made some changes and added more staff to speed up the process.”

One such change is the move of the South Broward show from the Suzan B Katz theater off Sheridan Street to Everglades High School in Miramar September 3. Coral Springs High school that had to open extra parking lots to accommodate last year’s crowd will have all parking lots open early, September 4.  Also, the Labor Day show in West Palm Beach is going to be held at Royal Palm Beach High School, September 5. Jamaicans all over the world have endeared Oliver Samuels over the years, but it is clear based on the number of shows and the support over the years, Florida is certainly a special place for Oliver.

 

Jamaica Diaspora 20 under 40: Opal Jackson: The Culinary Artist

Rivaling Opal’s love for her native Jamaica is her love for cooking which she has groomed into a very promising career.   Although the 39 year-old Broward resident has a degree in Medical Administration from Boces University, she prefers the career of being a chef.

“I have enjoyed food and cooking from I was a child. I grew up around food as my mother was a chef, and I learned to cook from her,” says Opal, who has been cooking for people since she was age 15, and began cooking professionally 15 years ago at age 25.

One of the more interesting aspects of her career as a chef is in creating and experimenting with recipes. “I have found out there are so many ways to prepare meals by the use of spices and different ingredients. In Jamaica, and through the Jamaican stores in South Florida, we have the advantage of so much rich spices, that it is no wonder why Jamaican foods is so delicious.”

She cited that there are good opportunities for chefs who are Jamaicans or who have that special talent for cooking Jamaican food. “Jamaican chefs have introduced so much to non-Jamaican food which were usually quite bland that they are in high demand.”

The advice I would eagerly give to youth in the Diaspora, especially if they want careers as chefs, is to “strive to be the best. They must practice, practice to improve the dishes they prepare, and be willing to try new recipes until they are perfect.”

Opal is focused on her plan to open her own restaurant in South Florida where “I can bring my cooking skills, using a Caribbean and Italian twist to Florida to prepare tasty and attractive meals. She also wants to own and operate a mobile food truck, but one with a difference that takes full meals, not snacks, to the people. “I really want as many people as possible to enjoy my meals.”

She says it is no secret that the food she cooks is reflective of her Jamaican heritage. “But much more, my heritage has influenced me in a major way to go after my goals doing my very best in all I do.”

“I am confident and proud of being a Jamaican-American. I am especially proud of the fact that Jamaica has taught me well and prepared me to be rich in culture, ambition and adjust to diversity.

TalkUp: What do you enjoy most about the Olympics?

What do you like most about the Olympics?

Timothy – Miami, FL

I just recently started taking an interest in the Olympics and I’m not a huge fan. I like watching Michael Phelps and the swimming competitions. I think the games set a great example for children. It encourages them to be active which is in keeping with what God wants. I’ve always been very active myself.

Joann – Miami Gardens, FL.

I like the fact that athletes from different countries can come together to be proud of where they are from and show off their abilities. I have some concerns though about the crime in Rio as well as the fact that some of the locations in the Olympic village were not ready. They had 4 years to get it together. My favorite events to watch are gymnastics, basketball, soccer, volleyball and track and field.

Chris – Miramar, FL

I’ve been watching the Olympics especially the gymnastics and swimming. I’m also looking forward to the start of the track and field events. I was involved with athletics when I was growing up, but I lost interest. At one point I even dreamt of going to the Olympics, but dreaming was as far as it got.

Yvette – Miami, FL

I’m loving the tennis and my girl Serena Williams. I’m also a huge Tiger Woods fan. I’m not really into track and field although I do know about Usain Bolt.

Pretty Ricky – Miami Gardens, FL

I love watching the women run. They’re fast too. Even that Usain Bolt. Someone is going to get him this year. Someone from the States. As a matter of fact, most of the medals are coming back here to the good old US of A. Growing up, I was a big sports fan, but my height prevented me from getting very far. They said my legs were too short. O well. I wish all the athletes success.

Stacey – Miami, FL

I’ve been watching the events a little. My favorite event is gymnastics. Those women look very strong doing their flips and routines. I really like watching it. Growing up I played basketball, softball and I was a runner. At one point I actually wanted to run in the Olympics. My favorite athletes were Flojo and Jackie Joyner –Kersee. I don’t watch a lot of TV now so I don’t know who Usain Bolt is.

Terry – Overtown, FL.

It’s really good to watch all the athletes doing their thing. I am a basketball fan, but I like watching the track and field events the best.

Nadelyn & Sunshine – Miami Gardens, FL.      

We like the swimming and gymnastics, but we really love the excitement of track and field. Usain Bolt is our favorite athlete. We are both very athletic so we do dream of one day representing the country in the Olympics.

Michael Dabney – Opa Locka, FL

I’m a big fan of the Olympics. My favorite event is boxing. I actually did some boxing when I was growing up. I was a middle weight. When I go home, I will be glued to the TV to watch Bolt. He is going to set more records this year. He will actually break his own records and set new ones. I love everything Jamaican. I love my people and I am proud of all that we have accomplished. I bleed black, green and gold.

 

Locally contracted Zika cases spread

Dr. Garth A. Rose

The spread of the Zika virus continues to concern South Floridians, as more reports of locally contracted cases from mosquito bites emerge. At the time of writing, the Florida Health Department reported 17 local cases – 14 cases in Miami-Dade, primarily in Wynwood, two in Broward County, and one case in Palm Beach County.

Efforts are being made by regional public health departments to increase aerial spraying, to stop the reproduction of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the breed of mosquito that spreads the virus. Since August 3, Miami-Dade County has increased spraying in a 10-mile square zone in and around Wynwood.

Due to this apparent localized proliferation of the virus making headlines, businesses in Wynwood, one of Miami’s premier tourism destinations, have begun to see a decline in customers.  This decline compounds existing concerns about the effects of the disease on Miami-Dade’s $25 billion tourism industry.

On Tuesday, following days of continued rain, neighbors in a West Kendall community were seen emptying drums in street drains. Kathrine Holmes, a Caribbean-American resident in South Florida said she and her neighbors were taking steps to ensure mosquitoes “don’t breed and spread in the area. We have several pregnant women in the neighborhood. We must protect them against Zika.”

The CDC has cautioned pregnant women, or women planning to become pregnant, to be especially vigilant against contracting the disease because of the proven birth defects it can have on new born babies. The CDC has also issued an advisory against pregnant women traveling to, and living in the vicinity of Wynwood.

Holmes said she’s hopeful the county will find the “the necessary resources” to extend mosquito aerial spraying across the county. “With all this rain, and the potential to breed more mosquitoes; with residents moving from place to place, I fear there’s real possibility of Zika spreading beyond the Wynwood area.” According to a report, one of the cases contracted in Broward County involved someone bitten by a mosquito in the Miami city.

With the academic school year due to begin in Miami-Dade on August 22, parents are concerned about their children contracting the virus in school. “I can protect my kids with stuff like mosquito repellent at home,” said Olive Walker of South Miami, “but students aren’t allowed to take the repellent to school, so I am really concerned.”

School officials in Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) have taken a proactive approach as the opening date gets near with some 400,000 students scheduled to return.

Miami-Dade District Superintendent, Alberto Carvalho said measures are being taken to ensure there is no breeding ground for mosquitoes at county schools, particularly at the six schools in the vicinity of Wynwood, who have large numbers of Haitian and other Caribbean-American students registered. The district said all the schools are safe from mosquitoes.

In addition, MDCPS officials have been making calls to homes of students on updates related to the virus, and urging students to wear long sleeve shirts and long pants to guard against being bitten by Zika-carrying mosquitoes. Walker said she has received the calls and plans to have her kids wear the recommended clothing to school “although they’ll be hot as hell.”

District officials are also making plans, in case the spread of the virus intensifies, to move students to schools outside affected areas. County school board member Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall said the county is prepared for any eventuality.

Sizzla to perform in South Florida after 8 years

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 12th, 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.

A Cuban woman and US resident (Is this a Cuban who is also a US resident? Two women? One? ) was arrested after she was allegedly paid to wed 10 illegal migrants in order for them to get them legal status. Yosandra Piedra Vasquez and Yoel de Moya Lozada (they both married the men? – who was arrested ?) married nine foreign nationals in south Florida and another in Georgia between 2002 and 2012. According to an indictment from the U.S District Court for the Southern district of Florida, the pair is facing charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States and could face almost a decade in prison.

As the battle continues in the fight against the mosquito borne Zika virus, congress woman Fredrica Wilson has been handing out information packets in Little Haiti. According to Wilson, this is necessary in the midst of the Zika crisis. There are 118 cases of Zika in Miami.

Congresswoman, Fredrica Wilson, has gone door to door at local businesses in Little Haiti, handing out information packets to get the word out about Zika and how people can protect themselves and their families.

The men and women of the Broward Sheriff’s office along with Sheriff Scott Israel will host another initiative to discuss matters concerning the community tomorrow. Dubbed “Scoops with BSO’s Troops” the event will from 11am to 2pm at McDonalds on North State Road 7 in Lauderdale Lakes.

This Saturday, the men and women of the Broward Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Scott Israel host another ‘Scoops with BSO’s Troops’ from 11 am to 2 pm at the McDonald’s on North State road 7 in Lauderdale Lakes. The summer initiative allows the firefighters and deputies to discuss matters concerning the community in a fun relaxed environment.

In Sports,

Caribbean sprinters will be aiming for the record books when the track and field events at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games today. From Team Jamaica – sprinters Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce will be placed in the spotlight along with Grenada’s  Kirani James of Grenada and others.

Bolt and Fraser-Pryce are racing for three consecutive 100 metres titles at the Games and James hoping to become the second man to win the men’s 400m in successive Olympic Games.  To show support for the athletes the Jamaica Tourist Board has invited the Diapora to witness the events on the 14th 17th and 19th at the Grand Café Restaurant in Pembroke Pines

Team Jamaica begins their Olympic run in track and field today with the men’s 400 meter tonight at 8:05 pm and the women’s 100 meter at 9:40 pm. The Jamaica Tourist Board invites the community to celebrate the Jamaican Olympians as they compete on August 14, 17 & 19 at the Grand Café Restaurant, Bar & Lounge in Pembroke Pines.

Let’s take a look at what’s trending

Grammy nominated Reggae artist, Sizzla Kalonji will make his way to the East Coast starting in Florida with a four city mini-tour including stops in Ft.

Lauderdale, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa Bay. Ft. Lauderdale fans will have the opportunity to be the first to see Sizzla after his U.S hiatus inside Revolution Live on August 24 at 9 p.m.

For today’s weather forecast:

Partly cloudy in Broward County with a high of 90 and a low of 77. Mostly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 88 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 Suzette Speaks.

West Indies to play India in Lauderhill, Sammy not on squad

West Indies to play India in Lauderhill, Sammy not included in squad

Reigning T20 World Champions, the West Indies, will take on India during their international series in Lauderhill on August 28 and 29.

Central Broward Regional Park will debut India’s first match on American soil just shy of a month after the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matchs were held after a long hiatus of international games. Prior to the July matches, New Zealand played two T20 games against Sri Lanka in 2010, with the West Indies taking on New Zealand in a two-match series in 2012.

This is a Board of Cricket Control in India(BCCI) initiative hoping to tap into the cricket market in the U.S where the Indian Diaspora is very large. The only problem posed seemed to be ability of both teams to get U.S visas.

File photo of Indian cricket team. AFP

BCCI President Anurag Thakur said, “As part of our continuous efforts to reach out to new markets and audiences, I am very happy to announce that Team India will play two T20Is against the current world champions West Indies in the United States.”

To add to the hype and anticipation of the match, the West Indies has announced that their current Captain, Darren Sammy will not be joining the team on the two-day stay in Florida.  The team has cut the two-time World T20 winning captain and replaced him with Carlos Brathwaite.

Sammy, who led West Indies to their second World T20 title earlier this year could not find a place in the 13-member squad.

In a statement from the West Indies Cricket Board, the chairman of selectors noted that the named squad was selected purely on players’ performances.

Congresswoman Fredrica Wilson fighting ‘The Bite’

Congresswoman Fredrica Wilson Takes proactive role against ‘The Bite’

Officials confirmed on Tuesday that there were four more cases of Zika virus obtained locally bringing the total infections to 21 cases. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) believes the people infected were bitten in the Wynwood area of Miami.

Congresswoman Fredrica Wilson is not letting this take over her community and has decided to take action by going door to door and speaking with local businesses. She is handing out information packets and repellent wipes trying to get word out that Zika does not know the difference between Little Haiti and Wynwood. Congresswoman Wilson says that she is also concerned about Zika in Haiti since there’s so much travel from the Diaspora between here and the Caribbean country.

“We go to Haiti every day, people from Haiti come here every day, and so we want to make sure people who come here understand and people who leave here understand that this is a crisis.”

Maryland Representative Steny Hoyer and some opinions on the matter of Congress using funds to go on ‘vacation’ rather than aid the nation in the fight against Zika. “It is unconscionable and frankly immoral to have left for seven weeks of break without passing the president’s request, which he made in February of this year.”

Although the fight against the Zika visus carrier, the Aedes aegypti is vigilant by residents here in South Florida, the Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau is also trying, desperately, to get the message out that Miami is open for business despite the negative attention that is circulating regarding the tourist populated city. They know that millions and possibly billions of dollars are at stake, which can directly affect the local business owners.

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