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OneUnited Bank starts the #BankBlack Challenge

OneUnited Bank, the largest Black owned bank in America and the first Black internet bank, is launching the national #BankBlack Challenge, designed to harness the economic power of the Black community focused on one clear financial message that #BlackMoneyMatters.

On Saturday July 30th, OneUnited Bank partnered with The Miami Dade Chamber of Commerce, The Young Professionals Network, Black Professionals Summit, HOT 105 Radio and other community organizations, to host a first-time account opening event at the OneUnited Bank’s Liberty City branch.

In recent weeks America’s Black community has galvanized via social media, public media and word of mouth, answering the call for a show of economic force by moving their money from traditional banks to Black owned banks. The #BankBlack challenge grew stronger among the community when Rapper Killer Mike implored the Black community to deploy “a portion” of its financial resources to make a tangible difference during a town hall meeting on BET and MTV. Other celebrities such as Jessie Williams and Queen Latifah, and recently Michael Jordan have joined the conversation urging Black Americans to move their money to Black owned banks. Since then, OneUnited has seen a sharp influx in web traffic and new accounts, with over $3 million deposited since this call to action.

Over 1,000 people were expected to attend the #BankBlack Miami event to encourage a positive and exciting opportunity for Miami’s urban community to participate in the nationwide push. The event featured food trucks, free giveaways, spoken word, a personal meet-and-greet with the owner of OneUnited Bank, Teri Williams, and fellowship around the #blackmoneymatters movement.

“If 1 million people opened a $100 savings account in a Black owned bank, we would move $100 million! That’s real economic power”, said Teri Williams, President & COO of OneUnited Bank. “It is critical for the Black community to utilize our $1.2 trillion in annual spending power to create jobs and build wealth in our community.”

This Day in History: Special Tax placed on Marijuana

On this Day in History, August 2, 1937, the Marihuana Tax Act, a U.S. federal law that imposed a special tax on the sale of cannabis, hemp, or marijuana was enacted. The Act was drafted by Harry Anslinger and introduced by Representative Robert L. Doughton of North Carolina, on April 14, 1937.

The Act did not itself criminalize the possession or usage of hemp, marijuana, or cannabis. But included penalty and enforcement provisions to which marijuana, cannabis, or hemp handlers were subject to. Violation of these procedures could result in a fine of up to $2000 and five years of imprisonment.

In 1936 the “Reefer Madness” Propaganda film was produced by the French director, Louis Gasnier. The 1936 film became known as a cautionary tale featuring a fictionalized and highly exaggerated take on the use of marijuana. The film showed a trio of drug dealers leading innocent teenagers to become addicted to “reefer” cigarettes by holding wild parties with jazz music. The same year, the Motion Pictures Association of America, composed of the major Hollywood studios, banned the showing of any narcotics in films.

Concern about the rising use of marijuana and research linking its use with crime and other social problems created pressure for the federal government to take action, but rather than promoting federal legislation, the Federal Bureau of Narcotics encouraged state governments to accept responsibility for control of the problem by adopting the Uniform State Narcotic Act.

In 1937 the Marijuana Tax Act was brought on after national propaganda campaigns against the “evil weed,” continued. Congress passed the Marijuana Tax Act effectively criminalized marijuana, restricting possession of the drug to individuals who paid an excise tax for certain authorized medical and industrial uses. The Act established that every person who sells, deals in, dispenses, or gives away marijuana must register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and pay an occupational tax.

College and credit cards: How parents can play professor

Learn how parents can help their college age children learn to manage credit cards.

Last year, college campuses across the country had 2.1 million recent high school graduates walk through their doors – a number that will likely be matched in 2016. But a freshly printed campus ID isn’t the only plastic eager students will carry this fall. A recent survey commissioned by USAA found that as parents send their children to college, most make sure their kids pack at least one credit card in their wallets.

Parents cite a number of reasons why their child has a credit card. Most overwhelmingly, the primary reasons are the ability to build credit history and convenience.

However, one-third of parents surveyed say their children will not have a credit card in college. JJ Montanaro, a certified financial planner with USAA, encourages parents to reconsider if they feel credit cards might be unnecessary.

“College is a place to learn – whether it’s academics or life lessons,” he says. “Building a credit history and understanding of how to manage credit should be a part of the overall college experience.”

Montanaro offers parents this syllabus for helping their college students make the grade in Credit Cards 101:

Communicate expectations.

Surprisingly, parents say they are just as likely to discuss budget management as they are academic priorities with their college-bound child (both 82 percent). This is great news, but Montanaro encourages parents to lay a good financial foundation well before their kids are headed off for higher education. Before college, parents should teach their children the basics of setting a budget and following it.

Select the right card.

Since the 2009 CARD Act, it is more challenging for students to get a credit card without mom and dad’s help. Parents report that nearly 50 percent of college credit card holders are authorized users on their account or using a card they have co-signed for.

“It’s a great idea for the student to have a card to which the parent has access and visibility,” says Montanaro. “Keeping a clear line of sight into how the card is used and paid each month allows parents to help young adults learn from their mistakes and create successful money and credit management habits.”

For students who still need training wheels, a secured credit card can be a good option. When they apply for one of USAA’s secured cards, they’ll also open a USAA Bank two-year variable rate Certificate of Deposit (CD), which allows them to earn interest while helping to build a positive credit history.

Master the fundamentals.

While there are many benefits of having a credit card in college, irresponsible use can have lasting consequences. Montanaro suggests using a credit card for recurring charges, like cell phone or internet service, as a safe way for students to build credit. Once they are ready to charge a wider array of expenses, both parents and children must abide by the most important rule: Pay off the card in full each month.

Learning to responsibly use credit cards while in college can have many benefits. In the short term, it allows students to build a positive credit history in order to purchase a car or rent an apartment once out of school. Longer term, they can carry positive credit management habits with them throughout their lifetimes. Montanaro sums it all up, “Allowing your kids to dip their toes into the world of credit cards while you’re able to closely monitor the situation provides an opportunity to learn and the freedom to fail without big stakes.”

 

 

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St. Lucia Zouks defeats Jamaica Tallawahs in CPLT20

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 1st, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Todays news is brought to you by the Goldson Spine rehabilitation Center, who reminds you, “After a car accident, call Goldson Spine!”

Here’s a look at our top stories.

The City of Miami Gardens is in the process of identifying funds to purchase body cameras to be used by police officers. According to Cameron Benson, the City Manager, the funds could be sourced from grants and bonds. Meanwhile, Mayor Oliver Gilbert believes having cameras will be beneficial to both police officers and residents saying that everyone behaves better when the cameras are on.

Jamaica’s track and field team at the Olympic Games in Rio were awaken most of the night Saturday as gunshots were heard for hours from a Brazilian slum, which borders the teams training base at the Linx Hotel. It’s not clear who was responsible for the shooting, however the team says sirens could be heard as the shooting continued into the early morning.

On the Reggae Billboard top ten chart this week, George Nooks new album ‘Ride Out Your Storm’ made its debut at number four facing competition from Ziggy Marley and Vybz Kartel. Freddie McGregor’s new album ‘True To My Roots’ which debuted at number 10 on the chart last week, fell from the top 10.

In Sports, The St Lucia Zouks continued their winning streak at the Hero Caribbean Premier League this weekend as they defeated the Jamaica Tallawahs for the second time in two days. This win did not secure a spot in Playoff 1 matches but the team will instead head to their Playoff 2 match against the Trinbago Knight Riders on Thursday.

Let’s take a look at whats trending

OneUnited Bank, the largest Black owned bank in America and the first Black internet bank, is launching the national #BankBlack Challenge. Designed to harness the economic power of the Black community, the challenge focuses on one clear financial message, Black Money Matters. The challenge is to open a UNITY Savings account at the bank and challenge 20 friends to do the same.

For todays weather forecast:

ThunderStorms in Broward County with a high of 89 and a low of 79. Partly 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.

Todays news is brought to you by the Goldson Spine rehabilitation Center, who reminds you, “After a car accident, call Goldson Spine!”

Jamaica Independence Message from the Consul General of Jamaica for Miami, Franz Hall

This Day in History: Jamaica’s Emancipation was Declared

Photo: JIS

Jamaica’s Emancipation Day

On this Day in History, August 1, 1834 in Jamaica, the Emancipation Declaration was read from the steps of the Old Kings House in Spanish Town, St Catherine, the country’s capital at the time.

Emancipation Day was officially introduced as a public holiday in Jamaica in 1893. It was replaced by Independence Day, then observed on the first Monday in August. Emancipation Day was re-instituted in 1997 by then Prime Minister PJ Patterson as a national holiday celebrated on August 1, Independence Day declared to be on August 6.

The bill for the abolition of slavery in the British colonies was recognized on August 28,1838 and read,

Be it enacted, that all and every one of the persons who on the first day of August one thousand eight hundred and thirty four, shall be holden in slavery within such British colony as aforesaid, shall, upon and from and after the said first day of August, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-four, become and be to all intents and purposes free and discharged from all manner of slavery, and shall be absolutely and forever manumitted.

The passage of this bill in the British Parliament in England allowed  approximately 311,000 enslaved Africans in Jamaica and thousands more the freedom for which many of their predecessors had fought and died. However, the Africans did not receive full freedom until four years later, as all slaves over six years old were subjected to a mandatory six-year period of ‘apprenticeship’. The ex-slaves would work without pay for their former masters for three-quarters of the week in exchange for lodging, food, and clothing. They could also, if they chose, hire themselves out for additional wages during the remaining quarter of the week, meaning that with this money, an ex-slave could then buy his freedom.

Trinidadian Sweet Potato Patties with Spicy Coconut and Callaloo Sauce

This recipe is a take on the Caribbean twist of crab cakes with a vegetarian substitute. The Trinidad and Tobago recipe for crab cakes that were coated in grated sweet potato and served with a Callaloo sauce. Callaloo is a leafy green similar to spinach and collard greens. The recipe serves about two to three people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and eat. The recipe can be altered to accommodate vegans, vegetarians and meat lovers. Share your photos with us on our social media pages.

What you’ll need for the patties:

  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled & cut into 1inch cubes
  • 1 or 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp dried chilli flakes
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • whole clove of garlic
  • 2 chopped scotch bonnets pepper (alter amount for spice/flavor preference)
  • 3 chopped scallions
  • salt & pepper
  • a handful of chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • lime the zest (1 lime)
  • sprinkle of thyme leaves

What to do:

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Place the sweet potato cubes with the olive oil, allspice, cumin, dried thyme, chilli flakes salt & pepper. Roast the head of garlic at the same time.
  3. Roast until soft. About 20 minutes.
  4. Mash the sweet potato in a bowl with half of the roasted garlic clove.
  5. Cook the onions and scotch bonnet with a pinch of salt, in a little oil for a few minutes until softened.
  6. Stir this into the potatoes with the chopped coriander and lime zest.
  7.  Cover and leave to rest in the fridge during the preparation of the sauce.

What you’ll need for the Coconut and Callaloo Sauce:

  • 1 tin coconut milk, 400 ml
  • 125g of fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 small chopped onion
  • the rest of the roasted garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper
  • 1 green
  • 1chopped tomato
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 fresh thyme springs
  • salt & black pepper
  • 1/2 a lime (juice)
  • a handful of fresh coriander, chopped, extra for garnish

 

What to do:

  1. Put everything except lime juice & coriander in a large saucepan, season with salt & pepper and bring to the boil stirring to soften the spinach.
  2. Lower the heat and simmer gently for 20-25  minutes,
  3. Remove the whole scotch bonnet and thyme sprigs and blend with a stick blender or in a food processor until smooth. If not hot enough cut the flesh from the scotch bonnet and add that to the sauce and blend again.
  4. Add the lime juice and chopped coriander and taste for seasoning, add more salt if necessary.
  5. Pour the sauce back into the saucepan and keep warm while you cook the cakes.
  6. Shape the sweet potato mix into patties.
  7.  Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan or skillet over a medium high heat.
  8. When the oil is hot, add the cakes to the pan and cook on each side until browned and crispy.
  9. Pour enough sauce into your dishes.
  10. Sprinkle with some fresh coriander and serve with extra lime wedges to squeeze over.

You can enjoy this dish with a bowl of rice, salad or by itself. Works perfectly as a casually meal with friends or a elegant dinner with family.

Crave a fun, illuminating vacation? Visit a lighthouse!

If you’re looking for a fun vacation, consider visiting a lighthouse….

Aug. 7 is National Lighthouse Day, a reminder to pay homage to these beautiful, picturesque structures rich with history. The Hillsboro Lighthouse in Pompano Beach has monthly trips that allow visitors to climb to the top and look out over the ocean.

Long before global positioning devices made it possible for ships of all sizes to independently sail with confidence anywhere in the world, lighthouses and lighthouse keepers protected the safety of seafarers. Today, ships use other methods for navigation, but lighthouses remain an important part of America’s maritime heritage. Across the country, lighthouses have been converted into museums, living history centers and even hotels.

To inspire you to visit a lighthouse this summer or fall, the USLHS and SeaPak have teamed up to share these fascinating lighthouse facts, along with some useful lighthouse tourism information:

* Historians believe one of the first known lighthouses was built in Egypt, nearly 300 years before the birth of Christ. “The Pharos of Alexandria” lighthouse was said to be more than 440 feet tall and guided ships to the city’s harbor for more than a thousand years before earthquakes destroyed it in the 14th century A.D. The Pharos is remembered as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

* Despite the creation of other navigational technologies, many operational lighthouses still exist around the world. Most have been automated, but some are still “manned” by a lighthouse keeper. In the U.S., only the Boston Light on Little Brewster Island in Massachusetts is still staffed. It is the oldest continually operating lighthouse in the country.

* Each lighthouse has a unique light signature that helps mariners identify it. For example, a lighthouse may flash its light once every seven seconds, while another miles away on the same coast flashes its light every 10 seconds. The different flashing patterns help sailors know which lighthouses they’re passing in the dark of night. Lighthouses also are painted in distinctive patterns and colors, to ensure they’ll be a visual signal for mariners during the day, as well.

* Because they’re located in coastal areas, lighthouses are often found in communities that have a lot to offer tourists. A lighthouse visit can be the pinnacle of a trip that also includes dining in nearby restaurants, shopping, day cruises, stops at other historic sites, and additional family friendly activities.

* Throughout the summer and fall, lighthouses along America’s seasides and inland coasts are the focal point of festivals. For example, the lighthouses of Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands on Lake Superior host a celebration every year in late August and early September; two dozen historic Maine lighthouses are open to the public on Maine Open Lighthouse Day (which this year falls on Sept. 10); and, in New Jersey, the annual Lighthouse Challenge weekend (this year on Oct. 15-16) encourages people to visit all of the state’s participating lighthouses on the Atlantic Coast.

* You can easily book a lighthouse tour that comes with behind-the-scenes insights into the history and operation of a lighthouse. In some cases, you may even be able to stay in the lighthouse keeper’s quarters and assume some honorary duties!

* While you’re having fun visiting lighthouses, you can help support their preservation by participating in the USLHS Passport Program. When you visit a participating lighthouse, you’ll earn a stamp in your free passport. You also help support the lighthouse through your ticket price and gift shop purchases.

“The history of the lighthouse is almost as old as human history itself,” Gales says, “and while the 300-year era of manned lighthouses in the U.S. has ended, lighthouses remain a precious symbol of our maritime heritage.”

Visit www.USLHS.org to learn more.

 

 

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St. Lucia Zouks take victory last night of CPL in Lauderhill

St. Lucia Zouks win over the Jamaica Tallawah

The St Lucia Zouks continued their winning form at the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) as they defeated the Jamaica Tallawahs for the second time in two days. This win was not enough to secure a place in Playoff 1 where a route straight to the final was up for grabs but they will head to their Playoff 2 match against the Trinbago Knight Riders full of confidence and hopeful of victory.

On Saturday when these two teams met at this ground the Zouks batted first and blasted their way to 206-3 on the back of an excellent opening stand from Andre Fletcher and Johnson Charles. Today’s Zouks innings was almost a carbon copy as Fletcher and Charles put on 104 runs for the first wicket from 68 balls. Both men were brutal on everything that the Tallawahs’ bowlers served up, and both of them made half centuries in the process as the Zouks made 194-3 from their 20 overs.

Charles was the first man to go, well caught in the deep by Chadwick Walton off the bowling of Garey Mathurin for 64 from just 35 balls. Charles was replaced by Mike Hussey who didn’t find the same fluidity as the openers. He made just eight runs before he too was caught on the boundary by Walton, this time it was Rovman Powell that was the bowling – it was his first wicket in T20 cricket.

Having made 74 not out in the last game Fletcher carried on that form as he laid the foundation for a match-winning total and set up the fifth win for the Zouks in the last six matches.

Fletcher eventually fell for 70 (54), also caught by Walton who seemed to be everywhere in the field. Shane Watson took up the boundary hitting on his way to a 17-ball 42 that included five Hero Maximums. 64 runs came from the last five overs as the Zouks set a target of 195 to win.

It would take a fine batting performance from the Tallawahs to chase that down and they would need runs from Chris “Universe Boss” Gayle. When Gayle began his innings looking to blast the ball as far as possible from the very beginning he seemed to think that he needed to go big early on to get up the win. He rode his luck in the PowerPlay with several balls landing just out of the reach of fielders.

That good fortune did not last for Gayle, eventually getting caught on the long-on boundary by Daren Sammy off the bowling of Watson for 30 from 15 balls. Fellow opener Chadwick Walton also went inside the PowerPlay as the Tallawahs reached 51-2 off the first six overs of their chase.

Kumar Sangakkara looked to set a base in order from which to launch the chase but he fell for 24 to the first ball of Gidron Pope’s spell to leave the Tallawahs in real trouble at 75-3 with the Andre Russell and Rovman Powell at the crease.

Anything is possible with Russell in the middle and he immediately looked to up the run rate, particularly off the bowling of Grant Elliott who conceded 27 runs from two overs. But his pyrotechnics did not last long either, falling to the bowling of Delorn Johnson for 21.

The Tallawahs did a decent job at keeping up with the rate but were losing wickets throughout. When Powell fell in the 16th over there was no coming back despite some lusty blows from Alex Ross as the Zouks won by 17 runs.

This match ends the hugely successful Florida leg of the Hero CPL which has seen great cricket and big crowds. Now the tournament moves on to St Kitts & Nevis for the knockout stage.

 

 

 

Hero CPL 2016 Media Press Release

Yona Knight-Wisdom makes history as first Jamaican Olympic male diver

Yona Knight-Wisdom makes history as first Jamaican Olympic male diver

Yona Knight-Wisdom, Jamaican diver, makes his Olympic debut by making history. The 21 year old is the first Jamaican male to enter the games held in Rio De Janeiro next month.

His weight, 198 lbs, is what he and other speculators believe allows him to reach a higher point from the springboard and create harder dives letting gravity aid him.

“My advantage is that I’m able to get a really clean entry into the water, so I make very little splash,” said Knight-Wisdom, who competes in the individual 3m springboard event. “I’m just aiming to keep it really, really simple and just try to get the most consistent performance, because I feel like people will make mistakes.”

Sponsored by British-Jamaican musician Levi Roots, he chose to represent Jamaica after struggling to get into the British diving team; Jamaica has only had one other Olympic diver, Betsy Sullivan, who was in the 1972 Games in Munich.

Knight-Wisdom is not letting the moment and opportunity pass him by, he says his main goal is to enjoy the occasion, admitting, his presence holds greater significance in breaking down stereotypes about divers.

“Some people do still get shocked when I say I’m a diver. To see an African-American diver kind of at the top level in this sport, there’s very few of us,” he said.

Knight-Wisdom, attending Leeds Beckett University, believes that he can influence and inspire other who don’t think that this is for them or that the market isn’t big enough or want to branch out and try different things.

Commissioner Holness welcomes 18 families into new homes

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, July 29th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Todays news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Here’s a look at our top stories.

The People’s National Party in Jamaica has reiterated the call for the Government to test all pregnant women for the mosquito borne Zika virus to limit the possibility of them having babies with microcephaly. Meanwhile, in light of the 55 travel related Zika Cases in Broward County and 96 in Miami Dade, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also urged doctors in South Florida to also screen pregnant women for the virus taking advantage of new testing technology.

Commissioner Dale V.C Holness helped welcomed 18 families to their new home in a ribbon cutting ceremony to the redeveloped community now known as Franklin Park Estates in Sunrise. Commissioner Holness, who was instrumental in getting the new homes developed in what is considered a low economic area, says owning a home is part of the American dream and revitalizing the area shows that investing in the communities brings about positive results.

Legendary Soca entertainer Irvin “Blackie” Blackman is bringing his take of Caribbean music worldwide with his new tracks “Something Tonight” and his reggae release “Something Special”. Blackie is hailed as one of Soca music’s longtime leading lyricists and an entertainer who consistently delivers witty lyrics and performances.

In Sports,

Officials from the Board of Control for Cricket in India were set to meet in Florida this week to discuss the possibility of staging a series of T-20 international matches at the Central Broward Regional Park. Duncan Finch, the Broward Parks & Recreation Manager, confirmed to ESPN that the match would be played between the West Indies and India in a possible three day tournament the last week of August.

Let’s take a look at whats trending

Jamaican entrepreneur Jacques Graham, will launch his Jamaican Olympic gear website, LandWeLove.com on Saturday, August 6 coinciding with Jamaica’s 54th anniversary of independence and the day after the 2016 olympics. The website provides customers with the opportunity to shop anytime and on any device, creating economic empowerment for many of Jamaica’s artisans who only sell their products locally.

For todays weather forecast:

Scattered ThunderStorms in Broward County with a high of 92 and a low of 77. Partly 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.

Todays news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

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

Free Back to School Immunizations

Free Back to School Immunizations

By Bob LaMendola

Florida Department of Health in Broward County

Before you know it, summer vacation will be gone and the kids will have to get ready for school again. So, it’s time for parents to start planning to get back-to-school immunizations.

The best choice is to take the kids to your family doctor to get their shots. But for parents who do not – or cannot – take their children to a physician, county offices of the Florida Department of Health (DOH) are offering free immunizations over the summer. DOH-Broward will offer them again at Lauderhill Mall from August 8 through 23.

“Vaccines have helped us wipe out diseases that used to kill our children by the thousand,” says Dr. Paula Thaqi, Director of the DOH in Broward County. “Parents who want to protect their children should have them fully immunized.”

Skipping immunizations does matter. In South Florida and elsewhere in the U.S., a few unvaccinated children have come down with cases of measles, chickenpox and whooping cough.

Florida law says children cannot start school unless they have received all vaccinations that protect against nine contagious and potentially fatal childhood diseases. Every year, parents and school officials get headaches when children cannot be admitted on the first day of classes because of missing shots.

Back-to-school Immunizations are especially important for children entering kindergarten and seventh grade, because different requirements begin at those grade levels. Vaccinations required for school include:

Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough) – Four or five doses of DTaP vaccine for babies and pre-schoolers. A booster dose, TDaP, before seventh grade.

Polio – Three to five doses of vaccine for babies and pre-schoolers.

Measles, mumps, rubella (German measles) – Two doses of MMR vaccine for babies and pre-schoolers.

Varicella (chickenpox) – Two doses of vaccine for babies and pre-schoolers. A booster dose before seventh grade.

Hepatitis B – Three doses of vaccine for babies.

Parents can also consider additional protection for the children, by giving other immunizations that are not required for school but are recommended by federal health officials. These include vaccines against flu (every year starting at age six months), rotavirus (three doses for babies), Haemophilus influenzae B (three to four doses for babies), pneumococcal disease (four doses for babies), hepatitis A (two doses for babies), human papilloma virus (three doses at age 11 or older) and meningococcal disease (two doses at age 11 or older).

But for back-to-school needs, DOH gives free shots provided through the federal Vaccines for Children program:

DOH-Broward – Free school shots at two Department health centers and August 8 through Tuesday Aug. 23 at Lauderhill Mall, 1267 NW 40 Ave. Evening hours on Thursdays, family fun day / health fair on Saturday, Aug. 13.

 

The fight for Little Haiti

The fight for Little Haiti

Members of the Caribbean American community in South Florida and across the country are being urged to invest in Little Haiti, as community activists continue the push to preserve the community , that is home to several Haitian immigrants.

Following a resolution earlier this year, in which the boundaries of Little Haiti were approved by the Miami City Commission, Marleine Bastien,  the Executive Director of Fanm Ayisyen nan Miyami (FANM), a Haitian community  organisation, said the success story must be continued.

“Caribbean Americans need to invest, they need to buy a piece of property, because we cannot let only those from other places buy. Have a stake in Little Haiti, it represents the

courage (and) the resiliency of immigrant groups who came with nothing.”

Bastien, who along with others spearheaded the 16-year fight to have the community recognized said an outreach campaign has been launched  to encourage residents to fight for the preservation of their culturally diverse neighborhood.

According to Bastien, as developers continue to acquire most of the space in Little Haiti, it is hoped that the campaign will reverse this trend.

The campaign is focused on four major issues:  encouraging homeowners to know their rights;plans to organize a community land trust; organizing a home owners and renters association and a Keep Little Haiti Clean campaign.

While Little Haiti’s designation is arguably one of the most controversial in the history of Miami, Bastien is determined to keep the focus on the community .

“People come from all over the world to see Little Haiti. This is a success story for all of use in the Americans to show that when we come here, we come with a purpose, we do whatever it takes to succeed in this melting pot.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Gepsie Metellus, the Executive Director of  Sant La – the Haitian Neighborhood Center, who also believes that several hurdles still need to be cleared.

“We want to ensure that those who remain (in Little Haiti) are given opportunities  – this is a highly desirable area at this point in time in Miami – but improvements can be made to avoid the displacement of long time residents.

Concerning investment opportunities, Metellus said Haitians and other Caribbean nationals could play a vital role in ritualizing the area.

“I know that we are working very closely with the City of Miami and we are looking at ways to work with other community stakeholders to revitalize the area financially to retain what is attractive and at the same time protect those who live there.”

For several years, Little Haiti, known mainly as a haven for immigrants and refugees from the French speaking Caribbean nation, was not officially recognized by city officials.

However that changed when on May 26, 2016, commissioners voted unanimously to designate Little Haiti as a neighborhood  in the city  – a decision-which according to Bastien “No one can come and erase.”

This Day in History: Desegregation of Tennis

Desegregation of Tennis

On this day in history, July 29, 1940, African-American tennis players were finally able to swing their tennis rackets on the same court as their white counterparts. Interracial matches were held for the first time ever on the courts of Cosmopolitan Tennis Club in New York City.

This occasion was six years before the Brown vs. Board of Education decision and  seven years before the bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama.

The protest in Druid Hill Park challenged the city’s segregation laws and became the subject of a column by H. L. Mencken. Mr. Weaver is believed to be the last African-American still in Baltimore to have participated in that protest.

The 1940’s was a period that represented the hard work by activists who stood up for their civil rights, equality, and desegregation. It was a time that foreshadowed the Civil Rights Movement and the essential plan of action for advocates to demonstrate equality and justice among all Americans. July 1948 was just that; it was a moment that demanded attention to the continual mistreatment and injustice of African Americans. A group named the Young Progressives of Maryland planned to manifest an interracial tennis match that would represent the unfair domination that segregation played in their lives.

Grand Slam tennis legend Don Budge and American Tennis Association champion Jimmy McDaniel desegregated the sport in a game that ended in Budge’s favor, 6-1 and 6-2. Budge then teamed up with American Tennis Association player Dr. Reginald Weir in an interracial doubles match against Richard Cohen and McDaniel. Weir would later go on to become the first African-American to compete in the U.S. Indoor Lawn Tennis Championship in 1948.

Althea Gibson, another athlete to set the mold of the tennis world, was an American tennis player and professional golfer, and the first black athlete to cross the color line of international tennis. In 1956, she became the first person of color to win a Grand Slam title at the French Open. The following year she won both Wimbledon and the U.S. Nationals, she then won both again in 1958, and was voted Female Athlete of the Year by the Associated Press in both years. In all, she was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the International Women’s Sports Hall of Fame.

Prior to 1940, African-Americans were prohibited from joining any tournaments authorized by the United States Lawn Tennis Association and snubbed from participating in friendly matches.

Ft. Lauderdale Strikers to leave Lockhart Stadium

Strikers Leave Lockhart

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers are leaving their home stadium at Lockhart Stadium to relocate to the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill.

The field that the team has called home for nearly 40 years is going to be taken over by a private company using the field as a water park which has brought on some concern from Rapids Water park in Riviera Beach. The Strikers will play their last game at the park July 30 against the Jacksonville Armada and debut at the Lauderhill sports park on August 20, when they host Ottawa Fury FC.

The Strikers, whose lease at Lockhart runs until December 31, say the move is necessary due to the neglect of major improvements needed at the field. Since 2015, members say it has made only minor improvements to Lockhart, including a video board, upgrading the press box and the PA system and renovating seating areas. Team players sat that the field and attached buildings needed major work done to the core of the building including new locker rooms, a stadium roof, and repairing the concrete structure itself.  The remote 57-year-old venue may have seemed unnecessary with the prospect of a   $70-million Schlitterbahn Water Park proposed for the 64 acres of city-owned land. The Schlitterbahn master plan includes revamping Lockhart into a state-of-the-art venue. The Strikers would sublease the stadium from the water park operator, meanwhile, using the Lauderhill location as a home.

The Schlitterbahn proposal presented to the city has two phases. The focus of the first phase is building the water park and $40-million hotel lodgings. Once those are complete, which is expected to take two years, plans for a possible Phase Two sports park would redevelop the surrounding property adjacent to the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airpark into four public soccer fields. The Strikers have used Central Broward Stadium as a training facilities since January and now they will use it as a more permanent fixture adding to the hype of the Caribbean Premier League matches scheduled to take place this weekend.

National Weekly July 29, 2016

Yoga Knight-Wisdom, First diver to represent Jamaica at the Olympics

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, July 28th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW 90 Im Jahlisa Harvey.

Todays news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Here’s a look at our top stories.

The landmark Caribbean Premier League Cricket matches will begin today in Lauderhill at the Central Broward Regional Park. After a long pause of international matches, Commissioner Dale Holness says having the games here will boost the economy in South Florida. The games are being held following the failure of the USA Cricket Association to secure an emergency injunction from the local courts. In the first match scheduled to begin at 7pm, the Guyana Amazon Warriors will face the Barbados Tridents.

A group of Venezuelans who illegally crossed the border to flee the economic crisis in their country may not be sent home from Guyana. Although officials in Guyana ordered their deportation, the Government said Venezuelans who enter the country out of desperation, should not be deported.

Sizzla Kalonji, the grammy nominated reggae artist, can now travel to the United States again after being issued a U.S visa. After being prohibited from entering the country since 2008, the musicians travel documents have been renewed. Many concert goers are speculating whether Sizzla will be performing at the Reggae on the River festival in California next month.

In Sports,

21-year-old Yona Knight-Wisdom, will be the first male diver to represent Jamaica at the Olympics. Jamaica has had only one other Olympic diver, Betsy Sullivan, in the 1972 games in Munich, Germany. The 2016 Olympic games will begin on August 5th in Rio De Janeiro.

Let’s take a look at whats trending

A non-spanish speaking South Florida teacher is suing on the grounds of discrimination after they rejected her for a job that required teaching an hour of Spanish every day. Third grade teacher, Tracy Rosner, filed a federal employment discrimination lawsuit against the Miami-Dade County School Board claiming that her race, prevented her from getting the job.

For todays weather forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 92 and a low of 78. Partly 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.

Todays news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

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

Janine Gordon takes the Crown of Miss Jamaica Diaspora 2016

Miss Jamaica Diaspora 2016

Janine Gordon, Miss Jamaica Diaspora 2016

Janine Gordon was crowned Miss Jamaica Diaspora 2016 during the Coronation show at the Sunrise Civic Center Theatre in Sunrise Florida. Set to take over the duties currently being fulldilled by last years winner, Rohannia Mooyin, the 19-year-old is daughter to two Jamaican born parents and is currently attending the Francis Marion University in South Carolina on a soccer scholarship. Studying to become a Lawyer, wearing the Dutch Pot Jamaican Restaurant sash, the sophomore also works as an Assistant Manager at Vector Marketing.  She is passionate about giving back to Jamaica and will focus her efforts specifically on giving underprivileged youth the academic opportunities that may otherwise be denied.

The renowned Candice Buchanan hosted the event, presenting the young and talented performers Ethnotricity, Prestige Music Center, and Wayne Roy took the stage bring even more life to the audience with their performances throughout the night.

Judges included Marie McKenzie – Chief Judge, Dr. Allan Cunningham, John Beckford, Lavern Deer, and Shana Simpson selected Gordon from an incredible group of 6 ladies who were either Jamaican born or born outside of Jamaica to Jamaican parents. Contestants competed in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and the interview, which culminated in Miss Jamaica Diaspora 2015 Rohannia Mooyin from Bridgeport, Connecticut handing over her crown to her successor Janine Gordon.

First Runner-Up went to Ashley Williams, Miss Mortgagegrants.com, followed by Second Runner-Up, Ghenelle, Grant, Miss Kalyber Commuter Club,  Miss Congeniality, Laureen Taylor; Altruism Award Ghenelle Grant, Most Photogenic, Skye Excell, Miss Essence of Style, Laureen Taylor, Best in Swimwear, Ashley Williams; Most Aware, Janine, and Best in Evening Wear, Janine Gordon.

The 2016 Miss Jamaica Diaspora Pageant is proud to support the philanthropic efforts of The Galleon Foundation whose goal is to financially assist students across South Florida and in the Caribbean achieve academic excellence.

This Day in History: The 14th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified

The 14th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified

On this day in history, July 28, 1968, the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified. The amendment granted citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States” which included former slaves who had been freed after the Civil War. Unsurprisingly, the amendment was rejected by some of the Southern states but was ratified by the required three-fourths of the states and officially adopted into the U.S. Constitution..

This became known as the “Reconstruction Amendment,” forbidding any state to deny a person “life, liberty or property, without due process of law” or to “deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”

Two years after the Civil War, the Reconstruction Acts of 1867 divided the South into five military districts, where new state governments, based on universal manhood suffrage, were to be established. Thus began the period known as Radical Reconstruction, which saw the 14th Amendment, which had been passed by Congress in 1866, ratified in July 1868. The amendment resolved pre-Civil War questions of African American citizenship by stating that “all persons born or naturalized in the United States…are citizens of the United States and of the state in which they reside.” The amendment then reaffirmed the privileges and rights of all citizens, and granted all these citizens the “equal protection of the laws.”

During most of the first half of the 20th century, the “separate but equal” doctrine served as a measure to justify segregating many public facilities between white and black citizens. This separation included railroad cars, hospitals and schools in the Southern regions and other likeminded areas. In 1954, the court unanimously struck down Plessy v. Ferguson in its Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka ruling.

“When they go low, we go high” – Michelle Obama

Consensual positive reaction to her convention speech

Dr. Garth A. Rose

The Twitter universe was extremely vibrant on Monday night with hundreds of Caribbean-Americans and residents in the Caribbean praising First Lady Michelle Obama scintillating address on the first night of the Democratic National  Convention in Philadelphia.

“In a speech of so many memorable lines, what stood out for me was when she said ‘when they go low, we go high.” This stood out for me because it directly referred to the low blows dealt by the Trump campaign against President Obama, Hillary Clinton and the Democratic Party,” Miami-Dade College lecturer Brooklyn Blaise told the National Weekly. “I am a registered voter without party affiliation, but wow! Michelle Obama totally convinced me to vote for the Democratic ticket.”

Down in Perrine, Miami-Dade roommates Michael Hilton and Roger Dale, supporters of Bernie Sanders held a small viewing party to witness Sander’s convention speech. “We were still holding hope, slim as it was that Bernie would convince some Clinton delegates to vote for him. But after hearing Mrs. Obama’s speech, especially when she said after the 2008 campaign when Hillary lost the nomination to Barack Obama, Hillary didn’t get angry or disillusioned because she realized the issue was bigger than her own desires. This made me realize  the overall movement of the Democratic Party is bigger than the Sanders movement, and we need to come together to win in November.”

Miami civil rights veteran activist and Liberty City resident, Latrecia Moses, told National Weekly on Tuesday morning she was so moved by Michelle Obama’s speech, “I couldn’t sleep last night after hearing her.” Moses said, she wonders how many black people, especially “young black people” realize the significance of Michelle’s words when referring to the White House. She said she now “wakes up every day in a house built by slaves” and watch her two girls play on the lawns of the White House. “Lord, oh dear Lord, those were powerful words, as it vividly portrays the journey of the American black race from the slavery plantations to the pinnacle of authority in this country. But still we have a long road to travel because every day there are forces that seek to knock us off the pinnacles we have reached.”

On Twitter during and after Mrs. Obama’s speech tweets flooded social media from across the globe, with several from recognized personalities in Jamaica. One of the more memorable tweets from one such personality read “Michelle commands the divided hall like a modern day messiah.”

This tweet was remarkably relevant as before Mrs. Obama’s  speech, there was a demonstrated division between supporters of Bernie Sanders, most of who were riled over reports of emails leaked by Wikileaks suggesting support by the Democratic Party Committee for Hillary Clinton over Sanders during the Democratic Party primary elections. While Bernie supporters booed and heckled some speakers when they mentioned Clinton’s name, there was no such dissension or disturbance, but rather rapt attention during Mrs. Obama’s speech, for which she received united standing ovation when she was finished.

Another memorable tweet originating from Jamaica read “Barack is good, but he’s now the second best speaker in the Obama family.”

Jamaica to participate in Zika clinical trials

Jamaica is to participate in a number of clinical trials in the drive to find a vaccine to treat the mosquito-borne Zika Virus.

Health Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton says the island’s participation forms part of an international study and fight against Zika and are being supported by the World Health Organizaton (WHO).

Tufton said the vaccine could become available within a year, but in the meantime, more persons and countries will be affected. He said that once the virus gets to its second phase, less people will be affected.

Tufton said that Jamaica is among some 65 countries fighting the virus and Jamaicans must appreciate the fact that the virus will continue to spread for a while.

“The Zika virus is new and there is no resistance. The immune system has not experienced it and developed the capacity to fight against it. So, when something is new like Zika, it tends to spread faster until you develop some sort of resistance to it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tufton said the Jamaican government is determined to empower citizens to fight Zika through the free flow of information at all levels, and that once persons are informed, they will be better able to tackle the virus.

“The biggest and most significant line of defence to fight this virus is us,” Tufton said, urging citizens to clean their environment to get rid of the breeding sites of the aedes aegypti mosquito, the carrier of the Zika Virus.

5 ways to save money for travel

So you want to travel…

Summer is a time to get out and enjoy yourself. Get out and see a new perspective on the world and take some time to experience a new culture. Here are ways to have fun without breaking the bank when planning for a big trip.

1. Skip the movie theater. Summer is a blockbuster movie season, but if you’re saving for vacation those first-run films may not be worth the expense. When you total up the costs for movie tickets, drinks, popcorn and candy, a date to the movies can cost up to $50. Instead, stream movies and make popcorn at home, putting that monthly movie allowance in a vacation savings fund.

2. Cut your wireless bill. Switching to a more affordable plan can save you a lot of money. Straight Talk Wireless offers consumers access to the best phones on the best networks at just $45 per month for unlimited talk, text and data with the first 5 gigabytes at high speeds (then 2G*). And for those data lovers out there, now you can double your data for only $10 more with Straight Talk Wireless’ new 10 gigabyte plan, with the first 10 gigabytes of data at high speeds (then 2G*) – all for $55. And switching is easy because you can keep your phone, network and number with Straight Talk’s Bring Your Own Phone program (BYOP). Best of all, there are no contracts, credit checks or mystery fees. Cutting your wireless bill allows you to save money for more summer fun.

3. Clean up and cash in. Did you skip spring cleaning this year? If so, dive deep into your closets, sort through garage piles and lift up those sofa cushions. Gather items you no longer need and stage a yard sale. You might even find a treasure trove of loose change lying around where you least expect it.

4. Exercise with Mother Nature. Gym memberships, fitness classes, yoga sessions and organized team sports all cost money. Going for a jog outdoors is free. Even if you go to a discount gym, suspending your membership and exercising outdoors for three months can save you big bucks. Take your workout outside – by jogging, hiking, gardening, doing yard work or just playing with the kids.

5. Automate your savings. Most banks now offer online tools that allow you to set up an automatic transfer between your checking and savings accounts. You can also setup direct deposit to automatically split your paycheck so a set amount gets distributed to your savings each month. Automating your savings means it happens without even having to think about it – so there’s less temptation to spend those funds on something else!

By taking a few steps to save this summer you’ll have more cash in-hand to enjoy every moment summer has to offer!

 

 

 

 

photocred: oneikathetraveller.com

Fortune teller, Miss Cleo dies at 53

look at some of the top stories making the news today, July 27th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Todays news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Here’s a look at our top stories.

Democrat Hillary Clinton made history last night as the first woman officially selected to lead a major party presidential ticket. Hillary made her appearance at the convention via video saying she cant believe that we’ve just put the biggest crack in the glass ceiling.

As Jamaica celebrates 54 years of political independence from Great Britain, the Jamaica Grand Independence Ball will be held on Saturday at the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure in Weston at 7p.m. Special guests will include Counsel General of Jamaica in Miami Frantz Hall and elected officials from Broward, Dade, and Palm Beach Counties.

Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett, this week said the country plans to promote Jamaica as the premier location for guaranteed quality entertainment year-round. He says that establishing the reggae music experience, instead of looking at single events, the country can develop a product to package and market to visitors to increase tourism.

In Sports, tomorrow night the Barbados Tridents will take on the Guyana Amazon warriors in South Florida at 7pm. The historic four day Caribbean Premiere League matches will be played at the Central Broward Stadium in Lauderhill concluding with the Jamaica Tallawahs battling against the St Lucia Zouks at 4pm Sunday.

Let’s take a look at whats trending

Miss Cleo, who’s real name is Youree Dell Harris, was the face and voice of psychic hotline commercials in the late 1990s died yesterday at the age of 53. TMZ reported that she had died in a hospice center in Palm Beach County, Florida after suffering complications from cancer.

For todays weather forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 92 and a low of 79. Partly cloudy 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 Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Sizzla to return to the States, issued U.S visa

Grammy nominated recording artist, Sizzla Kalonji can now visit the United States again after being issued a new U.S visa. After he was prohibited from entering the country after his visa was revoked in 2008, musicians travel documents have been reinewed.

The reggae living legend gave a special thanks to his supportive group of fans and people who worked to ensure he made his way to the states again. “Big up the fans dem, big up all the people who support Sizzla over the years, bless up mi lawyers dem because they have been doing good work Rastafari up mi sey.”

During Sizzla’s time away from the U.S, he has been working on some community improvement initiatives in Jamaica’s inner city. The icon says that many musicians have lost a lot of income not being able to perform in the states, but he is glad to be able to travel freely.

“Praise unto the almighty the U.S visa has been reinstated so you know the work continues so the fans can look out for Sizzla. Just more fire, more music, more joy, more happiness, more business and tek care of the family,” the elated artiste said.

Sizzla is rumored to perform at the 32nd annual Reggae on the River festival in California, but there has been no confirmation on whether this will be his first performance in the U.S since his absence.

This Day in History: The execution of 167 political prisoners was ordered

On this day in Caribbean history, July 27, 1915, Jean Vilbrun Guillaume Sam, commander of Haiti’s Northern Division, ordered the execution of 167 political prisoners and was mutilated by the rebel population.

Sam led the revolt that brought President Cincinnatus Leconte to power, later heading the revolt that conquered President Oreste Zamor. Sam was proclaimed president when his predecessor, Joseph Davilmar Théodore, was forced to resign on February 25, 1915, when he was unable to pay the militiamen who had helped him overthrow Zamor.

As the fifth president in five chaotic years, Sam was forced to contend with a revolt against his own regime, led by Dr. Rosalvo Bobo, who opposed the government’s expanded commercial and strategic ties with the U.S. Fearing that he would share the same fate as his predecessors, Sam acted harshly against his political opponents, particularly the better educated and wealthier mulatto population. Sam’s repressive measures came on July 27 1915, when he ordered the execution of 167 political Port-au-Prince jailprisoners, including former president Zamor. This infuriated the population, which rose up against Sam’s government almost instantly the they heard the news.

Sam, fearing for his life, fled to the French embassy, where he received asylum. The mulatto rebel leaders successfully broke into the embassy, found Sam, and dragged him out and beat him to near death. The rebels threw the presidents body over the embassy’s iron fence to the waiting populace, who then ripped his body to pieces and paraded the parts through the capital’s neighborhoods.

News of the murder soon reached the American Navy ships anchored in the city’s harbor, and Washington D.C. President Woodrow Wilson, ordered the troops to seize the capital. They reached the shore the next day on July 28th and continued to occupy the country for nineteen years until August 1934.

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