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Bahamian Hacker faces 10 years in jail

hacker convicted Bahamian Alonzo Knowles
Alonzo Knowles

Bahamian-born hackers Alonzo Knowles may now be facing up to 10 years in prison, after pleading guilty in Mahattan federal court to identity theft and criminal copyright infringement.

According to the indictment, Knowles, 24, hacked into personal e-mail accounts of industry leaders in the entertainment, sports, and media, taking copyrighted and confidential documents, including scripts, personal identifying information. Once obtaining his victim’s electronic passcodes, Knowles, unbeknownst to the victim, would change the settings in the victim’s e-mail account in order to continue to access to it. In order to avoid detection from the victim, Knowles would delete notifications from the e-mail service provider regarding changes to the settings of the victim’s e-mail account,” court documents stated.

“His crimes did not end with this frightening invasion of privacy, as Knowles then sought to sell what he stole, including unreleased movie and television scripts, to the highest bidder,” the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Preet Bharara said after the conviction on Monday.

He was arrested following a sting operation that began in December last year, when he tried to sell the stolen property to an undercover agent.

Knowles will be sentenced on August 25.

TalkUp: Should men pay on dates?

Should men always pay on a date?

Ainsworth – Port St. Lucie, FL.

If you ask a lady out, you have to impress her. The most important thing is for her to see that you are financially capable of taking care of her. It’s kind of hard if a woman shows up on a date and the man asks her to pay for the date. If I was her, I would walk away. If a woman asks me out, I would still pay. It’s expected for a man to always be a man and take care of those kinds of responsibilities. I’ve been on a few dates where I stepped away and when I got back, the bill was already paid. Those weren’t first dates, so it was ok with me.

Daneelou – Plantation, FL.

No, the man should not always have to pay. I think that we live in a progressive enough era where women are making equal pay, so we should be equally responsible for courtship. I never go on a date with the expectation that someone else will pay. I am always prepared to pay my own way and if my date decides to pay then that’s great. I have never been required to contribute to or cover the bill. I have actually argued for the right to pay for myself. My mother raised me to be independent and accountable for myself.

Godfrey – Lauderdale Lakes, FL

It depends. If it’s a nice girl and depending on how she looks or where she wants to go, I may pay. I’ve been on dates where the woman insisted on paying and that made me feel very good. They should pay sometimes. I have no problem telling a woman that I cannot afford to take her to certain places.

Deborah – Miami, FL.

Yes, I am from the old school. If a man invites a woman out, it is only right that he pays. If a woman asks a man out, as a courtesy, the man should still offer to pay. Men should always maintain their role as men. They should always offer to take responsibility for those things. If the woman is rich and the man is unemployed, then I could understand the woman taking care of the bill. I’m very upfront with people, so my dates always know where I stand. I never have this problem.

Mathew – Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

It really depends on the couple. In today’s society there are diverse people with diverse ideas. Some women today make more money than men. It may even be a man’s birthday. There are a lot of reasons why a man may not pay, but it is his responsibility to take the leadership and take care of most of these things. I don’t always pay because sometimes I get gifts or a lady may decide to give me a treat.

Sherry – Lauderhill, FL.

I wouldn’t say always, but he should pay the majority of the times. As a courtesy, a woman can sometimes show appreciation and take care of the bill. She should never be required to do this though. I sometimes pick up the bill, but I expect the man to be the head and take the lead on that. It’s even ok if he gives me the money for me to take care of the bill.

Sammie – Sunrise, FL.

No, the man should not always be required to foot the bill. It’s equally as difficult for women as it is for men, so sometimes you should be able to find balance. People rely on tradition a bit too much. You should be able to follow your heart and if you feel like taking the lead, there should be no problem. Those types of things make the date more interesting. I would never ask a woman to pay, I am always prepared, but if she offers to pay or to share the bill, that’s a good sign for me. It’s hard to find women like that.

Dorrel – Lauderdale Lakes, FL.

Yes, the man should always pay. I have never offered to pick up the bill. My dates always pay. If it’s a nice guy who looks good, smells good and everything, I would offer to pay.

Pablo – Franklin, FL.                                           

If the man asks a woman out, he should pay. If it’s the other way around then they should split the bill. Whenever a woman has offered to pay the bill, I allow her to do it. I make sure that she knows that I appreciate her though. I won’t hide not being able to afford a date. In most cases, we just look for somewhere cheaper.

Quincey – Plantation, FL.

It depends. This is a loaded question. If I ask a woman out, then it should be understood that I am going to pay. I am old school traditional. I open doors, pull chairs out and I pay. I am always prepared. If a man does not want to pay, it means that he is not really interested in the woman. The only time a woman should be required to pay is if we are married and the funds are coming from our joint account. When I dated my wife, she insisted on paying. It was surprising, but I married her.

Three Jamaican artists are on the Billboard charts this week

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, May 13th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Here is a look at our top stories…

George Zimmerman, the Florida man who fatally shot Trayvon Martin, an unarmed black teenager, had plans to auction the handgun used in 2012. When asked about the statement he replied… “I’m a free American. I can do what I’d like with my possessions.” When the auction was set to begin, the weapon was no longer on the website and was replaced by a page saying, “Sorry, but the item you have requested is no longer in the system.” No word yet on what happened and Zimmerman has refused calls.

Top National security adviser and Jamaican descendant, Susan Rice, is promoting the importance of diversity in the national security division. At a commencement address at FIU Rice spoke passionately saying that as America becomes more diverse, so do our best people. The adviser went on to encourage the listeners to dismiss the naysayers and those who try to disparage our diversity.

Three Jamaican artists are sitting pretty on the Billboard charts this week. Popcaan, Serani and Beenie Man have all been featured on Canadian hip hop artist Drake’s new album. Amidst controversy over the song “Controlla” which was believed to feature Popcaan, went instead to Beenie Man, the two have been quiet in regards to questions.

In Sports, The CASA Super league semi finals have the FC Steelers as triumphant. The game ended with a score of 5-2 with the Island Strikers trailing behind. The final game is scheduled to be held at the Lauderhill sports park on Saturday at 8:15 pm.

And now, here’s what’s Trending:

A new federal program is seeking to replace the criminal self identification box on college applications. While colleges such as FIU include the criminal history question as a means of securing college campus safety, the U.S secretary of Education argues that “too many Americans are denied opportunities to lead fulfilling and productive lives because of a past arrest or conviction.”

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Mostly sunny in Broward County with a high of 86 and a low of 72. There will also be some sun in Miami-Dade, with a high of 86 and a low of 73.

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.

 

An Easy Meal Idea Everyone Can Do

Jamaican Pepper Steak

For a quick and easy meal for yourself or the whole family, Pepper Steak seasoned with traditional Jamaican spices should be added to you repertoire. Sirloin steak is suggested for optimal flavor and tenderness, however, any steak will do. You can use one kind of bell pepper or a variety is good for appearance and the level of spiciness, simply simply add more pepper sauce. Serve this meal on a bed of rice with a side of salad or greens and just like that, you have a quick and tasty meal.

What you’ll need:

1 lb beef top round steak, 1 inch thick
2 teaspoons of olive oil
1 onion, sliced thin
2 cloves of minced  garlic
1 cup of beef broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1 thinly  sliced green bell pepper
1 thinly  sliced red bell pepper
1 thinly  sliced yellow bell pepper
1 can chopped tomato, drained or 2 tomatoes peeled and cut into wedges
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Slice the beef into 3 inch strips 1/4 inch wide
  2. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet on medium high and add onion and garlic, stirring until onion is tender
  3. Remove with spoon
  4. Add remaining oil and sauté the beef until browned
  5. Remove with spoon
  6. Add the broth, soy sauce, sugar black pepper and hot pepper sauce to the skillet and stir
  7. Put beef back in the pot, onion and garlic to the skillet and simmer covered for 30 minutes
  8. Add bell pepper and tomatoes
  9. Cover and cook until peppers are tender
  10. Dissolve the cornstarch in cold water
  11. Stir into the skillet stirring constantly until thickened around 2 minutes

 

On This Day in History: “Rivers of Babylon”

Rivers of Babylon

On this day in history in 1978, Boney M was featured at number one on the UK chart with the hit song ‘Rivers of Babylon’. The five week chart topping single was originally sung by Jamaican reggae group “The Melodians.” The 1972 movie “The Harder They Come” had the original version of the song on the sound track.

The Germany-based band Boney M., whose version of the song was released to the public as a single, stayed at the number one spot and was also the group’s only significant US chart entry, peaking at number 30 on the Pop charts. 2 million copies of Boney M’s version had sold in the UK and remains one of the top ten songs of all-time, and is also still the best-selling single in the UK. In Canada, the song was featured in   RPM magazine’s top 100 singles chart at number 25 and reached number nine on the Adult Contemporary chart. Rivers of Babylon was the first single from the band’s equally successful 1978 album Nightflight to Venus.

Did you know that the Rastafarian language was removed from the Boney M. version of the lyrics? They did perform an early mix of the song on a German television show singing “How can we sing King Alpha’s song”, as in the Melodians version, although it was changed to “the Lord’s song” for the original biblical words, in the released versions. Another part of the song also was changed to adapt to the audience; “O Far-I” became “here tonight” rather than the written Biblical original way of “O Lord”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ybv4DOj-N0

 

 

Jamaican Lawyer to run for Sunrise Commission

Mark Douglas Sunrise Florida Elections Commission
Mark Douglas

Local Jamaican-born attorney Mark Douglas is making his first foray into public office, running for a spot on the commission for the City of Sunrise. He is up against four other candidates for four spots on the commission.

Born in Chapelton, Clarendon, Douglas has been a longstanding local attorney in south Florida, specializing in criminal defense, immigration law and family law. A Commissioner seat would be his first elected public position, though he has served as Chairman of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, and as an executive member of the local Jamaican-American Bar Association. Last August, Douglas was also named one of Caribbean National Weekly’s Next Gen Diaspora: Top 20 Jamaicans under 40 in South Florida.

Contesting for a Commission seat, Douglas will face Yomtov Vivi Assidon, Gerald Brignola, Steven J Del Re, and Steven Brian Feren. Municipal elections for the city will be Held on November 8th this year.

Douglas is one of many Caribbean-American running for public office this year. Four Caribbean-Americans are running for Florida State Representative for District 95, to replace current Rep. Hazelle Rogers, who terms out this year. The candidates include Jamaican-born Lauderdale Lakes mayor Barrington Russell, Haitian-American Patrick Jabouin, Sr., Suriname-American Roxanne Valies and Anika Omphroy of Jamaican and Haitian ancestry.

Tony Cozier, remembered as the “Voice of Cricket”

Tony Cozier

World renowned West Indies commentator, Tony Cozier, has passed away on Wednesday following a long illness.

Cozier was 75 years old and had covered almost every West Indies series since 1962. Cozier is known as the most respected cricket writer, broadcaster and historian to have come out of the Caribbean.

“It was with great sadness that we learned of Tony’s sad passing.” said Damien O’Donohoe, Chief Executive Officer of the CPL.

“To many fans across the Caribbean and beyond he was quite simply the voice of West Indies cricket. His love of cricket was a positive influence in telling the story across a golden era for West Indies cricket and he was hugely respected and loved, in equal measure, by fans of the game.

“For more than 50 years Tony’s voice has resonated through television, radio or the written word in homes across the cricketing world and he was admired internationally for his passion, insight and enthusiasm.

“Most recently Tony was kind enough to share some of his hopes and thoughts on the forthcoming CPL in a way that was typically Tony; full of insight, forthright opinion and, above all, humor. He spoke at length about his beloved Barbados, St. Kitts & Nevis and the soon to be published Jamaica. Though this series will now remain unfinished, like his legacy, they will live on and no doubt endure for all time.

“On behalf of the CPL I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his wife Jillian, children Craig and Natalie and his family and friends at this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”

Comm. Dale Holness hosts 2-day citizenship drive

There will be another free Citizenship Drive this weekend, set for May 14 and May 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lauderhill Mall. Hosted by Broward County commissioner Dale Holness, the free event will particularly provide assistance to applicants filling out the N-400 US Citizenship application and other required documents for naturalization.

For this weekend’s events, expert legal volunteers will be on hand from immigration advocacy group, Florida New Americans, as well as the Caribbean Bar Association and the Jamaican-American Bar Association. Individuals who qualify for the program must be 18 years or older, have a permanent resident card for 5 years or be a spouse of a U.S. citizen and have a permanent green card for 3 years.

Supported by U.S. Congressman Alcee Hastings and Broward County commissioner Dale Holness, the renewed event was in response to the overwhelming turn-out at this year’s drives, the last one being held in April. Since this year alone, the drive reports that 700 applicants have submitted their completed paperwork through the Lauderhill program, with an additional 1500 expected to complete their application by the end of this month.

The drive also provides valuable financial support for those applying for citizenship. “Some 70 percent of those who were eligible obtained a fee waiver, which is a significant savings, since the application fee costs $680,” says Commissioner Holness. Applicants may receive a waiver if they receive public benefits such as Medicaid or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The regulations allow waivers to applicants who are single earning under $17,650 annually, from a family of two earning $23,900, and families of three and four earning $30,135 and $36,375 annually, respectively.

Rihanna Gives Back

Cerone White

 

Bajan pop star Rihanna will be paying it forward to some deserving students in Caribbean and the Diaspora with her new Clara Lionel Foundation Scholarship fund. The program provided financial support for students seeking to complete their education in the United States, particularly in health, education, arts, and culture.

 

Applicants living in the U.S., Barbados, Brazil, Haiti, Jamaica and Guyana are eligible. The scholarship will only be for persons accepted into a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S. for the 2016-2017 academic year. Those interested will also need to submit a personal essay stating why they should be chosen. Application deadline is June 10, and winners will be announced in August.

 

This scholarship will be between US$5,000 to US$50,000, and it is renewable up to three years or until a bachelor’s degree is earned. Fifty students will be chosen, based on academic performance, leadership qualities and participation in school and community activities.

 

So, in case you were wondering where Rihanna came up with this unique name for her foundation, it derived from her grandparents Clara and Lionel Braithwaite. Rihanna’s grandmother died of pancreatic cancer. To give others a fighting chance, Rihanna has also made substantial donations to help fight the cause back in her home country of Barbados, funding treatments for cancer patients in Barbados who cannot afford it. The Foundation has also established the Clara Braithwaite Center for Oncology and Nuclear Medicine at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown, Barbados.

This Day In History: President Jimmy carter visits Cuba

Jimmy Carter in Cuba

 

By:Cerone White

On this day in history May 12, 2002, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter visited the island of Cuba for five days. During Carter’s visit he was the second U.S. president, after Calvin Coolage, in or out of office to ever visit the island in efforts to help build relations between the two countries.This visit was significant in part of Carter wanting to bridge the gap between the country and in part as a response to Castro’s personal invitation. Carter’s presidency lasted from 1977-1981 and during this term he sought to regain diplomatic and commercial connection between the two countries.

President Obama followed in Carter’s footsteps by being only the third U.S. president to ever visit the island. In 2016, Obama along with his entire family and other diplomats visited the island creating a historic moment. While there for the visit, the Obama’s stayed at the Grand Embassy Mansion. This estate was reputedly first conceived as a possible winter White House for Franklin Roosevelt. President Obama’s visit lasted three days.

Jimmy Carter Historic Speech In Cuba

Did you know:

  • The US treasury department has the power to fine U.S. citizens up to US$50,000 if they visit Cuba without a license
  • Coolage attended the Pan American Conference.

 

 

5 fresh steps to reorganize your spring routine

Put some prep in your day

The changing seasons create a great opportunity to rethink your habits to keep your “always on” routine at its freshest. With some quick, consistent changes, you can refresh your daily routine and form better habits with minimal effort required. Here are five easy tips to feel confidently fresh and always on as you go about your day.

Prep the night before. Have you ever been late in the morning because you weren’t organized for the day ahead? Take 10 minutes before bed to pack your bag for the next day. After all, the more you rush, the more likely you are to forget something important. Gather your essentials in advance — whether gym clothes, lunch or handbag basics — so you don’t miss anything in the morning. Anticipating the day’s needs will make you feel more confident come morning knowing you don’t have to worry that you’ve forgotten anything before heading out the door.

Eliminate the snooze button. It’s tempting to hit the snooze button when the alarm goes off, but that is no way to get ahead. For a better start, set the alarm for the time you truly need to be up and then place it somewhere that requires you to get out of bed to turn it off. This will make it easier to wake up the first time. Then use those extra few minutes to eat breakfast, shower or apply makeup — the possibilities are endless. Give it three weeks and you won’t miss your snooze button at all.

Freshen up your beauty routine. Do you really need a dozen bottles of half-used moisturizers and a purse full of last season’s lip and nail colors? Refresh your beauty cabinet and makeup bag to keep your essentials easily accessible. Every woman has her list of must-haves to keep on hand and in her bag — dry shampoo, hand sanitizer and daily panty liners. Try Always Xtra Protection liners to feel shower fresh all day long. These thin and flexible daily liners are super comfy and keep you 5 times drier as you go about your day. It’s extra convenient that they are individually wrapped, so you can toss some in your gym bag, purse, desk and bathroom for that always on, always shower fresh feeling anywhere you go.

Travel essentials to stay shower fresh. In your 24/7 life, you never know where the day will take you. From morning meetings in the office to last minute business trips, you always want to feel your best. There are certain items that are portable and easy to keep around to refresh without taking up too much room in a carry on. Deodorant, daily panty liners and eye drops are a smart travel top three. Deodorant will keep you smelling sweet and can also be used to prevent blisters from unforgiving shoes, eye drops can refresh dry eyes or take redness out of a zit and 50 percent of women agree that wearing a liner on a long flight would keep them feeling fresher, according to a 2013 Always online study. From take-off to touch down, you’ll not only have finished reading your latest book club selection, you’ll also feel as fresh as when you started.

Find time to refresh daily. Whether near or far, at home or at work, burning off some steam (and even some calories) with exercise or a night out is a great way to refresh your body and mind. Don’t let any 9-5 obligations keep you from finding time for yourself! Carving out a little “me” time is an important way to keep you feeling your freshest day in and day out. To make it easier to fit it all in, try creating calendar appointments for your workouts and social plans to make them feel like more of a priority. Also, keep your personal essentials (make up, panty liners, deodorant) handy to seamlessly transition from one thing to the next, proving that an “always on” woman can do it all and still feel her freshest!

Try these easy tips to help refresh and reorganize your daily routine for the next few weeks and see how simple it is to change your habits.

 

Brandpointcontent.com

St. Kitts and Nevis make strides in geothermal energy

Prime Minister Timothy Harris and Minister of Energy Ian Liburd, attended the U.S.-Caribbean-Central American Energy Summit in Washington, D.C. last week to discuss the country’s geothermal progress with key stakeholders. 

 

“During the day-long meeting on May 4th, Prime Minister Harris highlighted the Federation’s significant progress in developing its geothermal resources and further emphasized Nevis’ laudable advancement towards achieving a green economy rooted in renewable energy,” Mr. Justin Hawley, Counselor at the St. Kitts and Nevis Embassy to the United States of America, said.

Mr. Hawley added that, “Before a packed room that comprised Summit delegates, U.S. Government officials, international partners and CEOs of influential private sector companies, such as New Fortress Energy, Tesla and SolarCity, the Honourable Prime Minister outlined the importance of forging partnerships for investment in renewable energy to decrease the Federation’s dependence on fossil fuels.  Then on the margins of the Summit, the Prime Minister and Minister Liburd met with Mr. Daniel Pfeffer, President of Thermal Energy Partners, to discuss that company’s ongoing involvement in Nevis’ nascent geothermal project.”

On November 20th, Texas-based Thermal Energy Partners, LLC, acting through its subsidiaryNevis Renewable Energy (NRE) International, entered into a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with Nevis Electricity Company Limited (NEVLEC).  The PPA worth approximately US$800 million is in connection with a 9MW geothermal project on Nevis that is capable of exporting 40-50 MW of additional power to St. Kitts and other neighbouring islands.  NRE International, the developer, has chosen Turboden, a group company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., to be the turbine supplier and the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor for the project.  The geothermal project is on target to begin operation at the end of 2017.

Prime Minister Harris and Energy Minister Liburd were in D.C. to attend the  the U.S. Department of State, which convened key stakeholders to discuss recommendations of the U.S.-Caribbean-Central American Energy Security Task Force.

Banning the Box on College apps

Ban the Box college application criminal history

College hopefuls get second chance as movement grows to remove criminal history on college applications

Many South Florida teens are finishing their high school careers, looking forward to the upcoming opportunities of a college experience. But it was not so for Ramone Headley of West Kendall, who despite top grades was unable to gain admission to three Florida colleges. The culprit? Headley has a misdemeanor charge from shoplifting with two high school peers in 2011. The family believes his history caused the rejection, despite undergoing counselling and a letter from his family attorney explaining the charges.

“I estimate hundreds of South Florida high school graduates are denied college entry annually because of the criminal record question on college application forms,” says South Florida college recruitment officer, Wendy Clarkson. “Some students don’t even bother to complete the application, and that’s sad.”

College applications across the country include this yes or no question box. For example, the application form for undergraduate courses at Florida International College (FIU) ask: “Have you ever been convicted of, or charged for a criminal offence or are you currently the subject of any criminal proceeding?” The application cautions that failure to disclose this information “may result in revocation of admission.”

A new federal program is seeking to replace the question box with alternative measures. The U.S. Department of Education recently held a press conference recommending American colleges and universities to remove this question preventing an estimated 70 million citizens with criminal records from pursuing higher education. While colleges defend the criminal history question as a mean of securing college campus safety, the newly released federal guide for colleges includes recommendations on how the colleges might consider campus safety and applicant’s criminal history without unduly discouraging or rejecting otherwise qualified candidates.

“We believe in second chances and we believe in fairness,” said US Secretary of Education John B. King, Jr. “The college admissions process shouldn’t serve as a roadblock to opportunity, but be a gateway to unlocking untapped potential of students…..We must ensure more people, including those who were involved in the criminal justice system in their past but paid their debt to society, have the chance at higher education opportunities that lead to successful, productive lives, and ultimately create stronger, safer communities.”

“Too many Americans are denied opportunities to lead fulfilling and productive lives because of a past arrest or conviction, including opportunities to access quality education,” said U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch in her support of the recommendations. “Expanding access to higher education for justice-involved individuals can help them step out of the shadow of their pasts and embark on the path to a brighter future.”

“I think it only fair that the question be removed from application forms, and reserved for the interview process,” says Clarkson. “[That’s] where the applicant can explain his criminal history if there’s one.”

What’s up with Beckham’s soccer stadium?

Delays plague stadium for MLS Team

Caribbean-American soccer enthusiasts are again concerned if the anticipated Major League Soccer (MLS) stadium to be built by English soccer star David Beckham in South Florida will be a reality.

“We can’t get information on what is holding up commencement,” says West-Kendall soccer coach, Richard Bramwell, who led a grassroots campaign last year for the county to support the plan. “There’s significant potential from soccer as an organized sport in South Florida. The presence of the MLS team and the soccer stadium would be added incentive in seeing this potential realized.”

In February, 2014, there was elation among soccer fans when Beckham, MLS officials, Miami-Dade and Miami officials jointly announced Beckham received approval to bring an MLS team to Miami.

Since then, the Beckham Group, has experienced several delays in securing an appropriate stadium site. Last year after planning to build the stadium in conjunction with the Miami-Dade School District on lands close to the Florida Marlins Park in Miami, those plans were shelved to build the stadium on a 9-acre site in Overtown, based on agreements reached with Miami-Dade County.

Attempts to obtain information from the Beckham Group as to the delay in commencing the building of the stadium have been fruitless. County officials said the work will commence soon, without offering a time frame for “soon.”

However, according to reports the holdup is a result of the Beckham Group’s delay in agreeing to the county’s proposals in exchange for a parcel of three acres of land owned by the county to be included in the nine acres to build the stadium.

The county’s proposal seeks the Beckham Groups commitment to paying market value for the land, employing local residents at the stadium, paying fines if these hiring targets are not met, benefits for stadium workers, and a package of benefits to boost Overtown’s economy. The county proposals also include a $1 million fine if the stadium isn’t built.

David Beckham announces plans to bring MLS team to

The reports stipulate the proposed community-benefit package is the issue creating the delay in the agreement being finalized.

“This is very frustrating,” said Bramwell. “I’m not privy to the issues that are delaying the building of the stadium, but hundreds of soccer enthusiasts, youth and adults, who are motivated by playing soccer are anticipating the MLS soccer in Miami. There’s significant gains and potential from soccer as an organized sport in South Florida. The presence of the MLS team and the soccer stadium would be added incentive in seeing this potential realized. Players and fans have been tantalized by this proposed MLS team and stadium for over two years. Either the stadium is going to be built and be a major boost to soccer in the region, or the plans are scrapped and let soccer fans and players deal with alternative reality.”

 

National Weekly May 12, 2016

Golden Krust CEO to be featured on CBS’ “Undercover Boss”

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, May 12th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Here is a look at our top stories…

The Emmy-winning TV show “Undercover Boss” will feature a familiar face in the next few episodes. The Golden Krust President and CEO, Lowell Hawthorne, will be disguised as an everyday employee where he will be able to see first-hand where the company’s business model thrives and fails with customers. The show will air on CBS Sunday May 22nd.

After missing his scheduled Fort Lauderdale show, Bunny Wailer has released a statement assuring fans that he is alright. It was released that he as well as members of his band are suffering from the flu. Wailer expressed that a visit to the doctor Friday before the concert was a routine consultation and his doctor expressed that performing would be harmful to his health.

Commander Janice G. Smith will now command the U.S Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin. Smith has become the first women of Jamaican descent and the second woman of African American descent to command a US Navy destroyer. Smith joined the team nearly two years ago as the ship’s executive officer and is now the ships first female commanding officer.

In Sports, Legendary West Indian commentator Tony Cozier has passed away following a long battle with illness. The familiar Barbadian voice of Cricket will be remembered as a man with a truepassion for the sport and for a career in TV, radio and journalism spanning 58 years. Cozier was 75 years old.

And now, here’s what’s Trending:

Reggae artist and “Shottas” actor Spragga Benz celebrated his daughter’s graduation from Villanova University with a photo on Instagram. He captioned the moment as his “Happy Moment”. The instagram photo has almost 2 thousand likes.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

In Broward County there it will be cloudy with a high of 84 and a low of 70. There will also be some cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 84 and a low of 71.

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.

Goals NOT Guns 5K Run, Walk or Pedal

Miami Commissioner Frank Carollo, Community Partners and Elected Officials to Lead Goals NOT Guns 5K Run, Walk or Pedal Event on May 14, to Raise Awareness and Support against Youth Gun Violence

Following the recent successful daylong Goals NOT Guns forum on youth gun violence, Miami Commissioner Frank Carollo has announced the details of his upcoming Goals NOT Guns 5K Run, Walk or Pedal, which will be held on Saturday, May 14, at 8 a.m. The special event is being organized in collaboration with Miami Marathon foundation and community leader Frankie Ruiz.
The upcoming walk will depart from Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami and follow a course which will take participants into East Little Havana and Overtown, where several deadly shootings involving children have taken place in recent years.
“I am still energized and filled with hope following our unprecedented Goals NOT Guns forum a few weeks ago and, as I announced that day, we will have several initiatives to keep this terrible epidemic at the center of our thoughts and actions,” said Commissioner Carollo.
The event is powered by United Way, and excess proceeds will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Miami-Dade, which last year provided close to 1 million mentoring hours.  The Boys & Girls Club of Miami Dade strives to give youth a sense of belonging, increase self-worth and self-esteem through sports programs, as well as, teach valuable skills such as teamwork, respect, responsibility, and goal setting-giving our youth an alternative avenue rather than violence in the streets.
There will be music and refreshments at the conclusion.  Water will be provided along the route.
To register, please visit goalsnotguns5k.eventbrite.com
 
WHAT:         Goals NOT Guns 5K Run, Walk or Pedal
WHEN:        Saturday, May 14, 2016, 8 a.m.
WHERE:      Starting at Bayfront Park
301 Biscayne Boulevard

Golden Krust on Undercover Boss May 22nd

Golden Krust President & CEO Lowell Hawthrone Conducts Covert Company Mission on CBS Hit Series Undercover Boss

Episode to be broadcast Sunday, May 22 at 10 PM EST

Lowell Hawthorne, President and CEO of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill, will be featured on the Emmy Award-winning series UNDERCOVER BOSS, Sunday, May 22 (10:00-11:00 PM EST/PST) on the CBS Television Network. Known for its signature golden crust patties and other Caribbean culinary delights, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill is one of the fastest growing franchises in the U.S. with over 120 franchise restaurants in nine states.  Golden Krust also operates a Retail Divison that provides Jamaican patties to the New York City public schools, the penal system, military channels and over 20,000 supermarkets, club stores and dollar stores nationwide.

As with other episodes of the reality show, Hawthorne is disguised in order to get a first-hand look at the business models’ strengths and flaws as well as learn of the personal and professional struggles of employees and franchisees. Hawthorne noted that the eye-opening experience provided meaningful insights into the brand and invaluable appreciation that goes into the day-to-day operation of a Golden Krust Restaurant.

“Our mission is for Golden Krust to become the “King of Patty” and therefore be the preferred patty, the preferred employer and preferred choice of food for customers nationwide. Everything we do revolves around that mission,” Lowell Hawthorne noted. “Being on ‘Undercover Boss’ provided a golden opportunity to get an inside look from the perspective of the employee, the franchisee and the customer.  I walked away with an extraordinary sense of pride for our amazing employees. When it boils down to it, it’s about our product and the committed people behind it.”

Lowell’s son, Omar Hawthorne, spoke with us here at Caribbean National Weekly and said that CBS has kept a tight lid on the episode, so he’ll be tuning in along with America to see his dad’s experience and is “excited to watch the outcome and what made final cut.” Omar celebrates that Golden Krust is “one of the few minority and Caribbean own companies” that CBS has chosen to feature on the show. “We’re proud to have another way of putting Jamaica on the map, we are not only people of food and music but business minds as well.” When we asked him about the preparedness for the even longer lines to come, he laughed and said “It’s a serious concern, but a good concern that we are ready to tackle.” Omar Hawthrone operates out of the headquarters in Bronx, NY as the Franchise Development Manager.

During the episode, Golden Krust will be hosting a live chat on Twitter via @GoldenKrustBkry and will respond in real-time to any conversations using #UndercoverBoss.  Golden Krust encourages their fans to host viewing parties by offering a downloadable “party pack,” available on their Facebook page beginning May 16. The Golden Krust Patty Party Pack will include downloadable e-vite, Spotify playlist as well as Golden Krust trivia to play with partygoers.

Additionally, the company is hosting a Twitter Photo Contest where fans are asked to upload photos of their viewing party and the one with the most likes receives a Golden Krust gift basket filled with golden and delicious Jamaican favorites and a 24-pack of Golden Krust Jamaican beef patties. Contest information will be posted on the Golden Krust Facebook page (www.facebook.com/GoldenKrustBakery).

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill, a wholly Jamaican-owned chain of quick service restaurants continues on an aggressive growth path with the company eyeing expansion not only in the U.S., but Europe, the Caribbean and Canada.

undercoverboss

 

UNDERCOVER BOSS, in its seventh season, is a two-time Emmy Award-winning reality series that follows high-level executives as they slip anonymously into the rank-and-file of their own organizations.  Each week, a different leader will sacrifice the comfort of their corner office for an undercover mission to examine the inner workings of their operation.

About Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill

Founded in 1989 as the vision of Jamaican immigrants Lowell Hawthorne and his 10 siblings and extended family, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill is inspired by the recipes passed down from family patriarch and master baker Ephraim Hawthorne, known for his homemade baked goods that feature the finest ingredients, Caribbean spices and signature, flaky crust.  Golden Krust now operates over 100 franchise restaurants in nine states, serving traditional Jamaican cuisine that has come to delight consumers of all backgrounds.  Golden Krust’s Jamaican patties are available in a range of flavors – spicy beef, chicken, soy and limited editions.  They are also sold at a variety of retail stores and supermarkets across the United States.

Spragga Benz is a proud Papa at his daughter’s graduation

Jamaican Dancehall deejay, Spragga Benz, posted this photo showing his “Happy Moment” as a proud Papa at his daughter’s graduation recently from Villanova University in Pennsylvania. He captioned his Instagram photo “Congrats to you Shanice… Next… On to the Masters…” showing his pride but also his high expectations.

Carlton Errington Grant was born in Kingston Jamaica in 1969. As he started his career in 1991, he was known as Spaghetti for his tall and thin frame but that was soon shortened to Spragga. He used to work for L.A. Benz, so that was a natural addition to his name. He has had several dancehall hits and is also notable for his role in the 2002 film Shottas.

Spragga’s daughter Shanice received her Bachelor’s from Villanova University, Class of 2016.

This Day In History: Robert Nesta Marley dies

bob marley

Bob Marley passed away on this day

By: Cerone White

On this day in Caribbean history May 11, 1981 Jamaican reggae artist Robert Nesta Marley died. Marley died of cancer in a Miami hospital. In 1977 he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. During his illness kept on working, releasing album “Kaya” which did well on the charts. It is reported that he was jogging and he collapsed, he was taking into the hospital and it was found out that the cancer had spread to his brain, liver, and lungs. Marley wen to Germany to see a cancer specialist and on his way he had to make an emergency stop in Miami for medical care. He died at the Cedars of Lebanon Hospital on May 11, 1981, at the age of 36.

Marley was born born February 6, 1945 in Nine Miles, St. Ann in Jamaica. The reggae icon got his start in 1961 when he formed a group called “The Teenagers” with fellow bandmate Neville “Bunny” Livingston, and Peter McIntosh. Among the group’s first single were “Terror” and “One Cup of Coffee” among others. Later on they formed a new group called the ‘Wailers’. In 1973, the Wailers released their first album, “Catch a Fire.” In 1974, the group disbanded but Marley’s success was not stymied; he went solo and he changed the face of music as we know it today. He broke down walls and introduced the world to Jamaican music.

February in 2001, Marley was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and on February 1981, he was awarded Jamaica’s third highest honor, the Jamaican Order of Merit. Bob married Rita Anderson in 1966 and together they both had six children. Today, his legacy continues and indeed he is “Jammin”, looking down at how his work has help cement the pathways for fellow Jamaican artists such as Elephantman, Sean Paul, and others.

Rihanna launches scholarship program for the Caribbean

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, May 11th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Here is a look at our top stories…

With the Florida right to medical marijuana initiative on the November ballot as a constitutional amendment, a lot of the state’s residents are voicing their opinion. The passage of this law would allow the use of medical marijuana for individuals with debilitating medical conditions in this state. The results of a recent poll done in Miami Dade show that 61% of residents are in favor of the bill. The last vote on the topic was done in 2014 with officials voting just short of 60%, not enough to get the bill passed.

May 9th through the 15th is now recognized as the first Mosquito Awareness week. The campaign has branded the slogan “Fight the bite, destroy mosquito breeding sites” and will focus primarily on the Zika virus. The main cause of the campaign is to educate on the risks associated with the disease, especially for pregnant women. The Florida total of Zika cases has risen to 100 and 9 infections with 2 new confirmed cases in Miami.

The sisters of Morgan Heritage are set to develop a new pop culture web based talk show called: “At Home with the Morgan’s.”  The 12 episode show will include conversations on entertainment, beauty, and current events.

In Sports, the CASA Super league match between Team Albion versus the Plantation Footballers ended with a score of 9-0 in favor of Team Albion. The next game will be tonight at the Lauderhill sports park with the Lauderhill lions playing against Albion and the Island Strikers facing off against the FC Steelers. The games will begin at 7:45 pm.

And now, here’s what’s Trending:

Rihanna is launching a new scholarship program from the Clara Lionel Foundation. The nonprofit organization is set to help give the gift of higher education to students in need from many Caribbean Islands including Jamaica, Barbados and Haiti and also many students right here in the U.S. Applications are accepted until June 10th.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Some clouds in Broward County with a high of 83 and a low of 72. It will be partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 85 and a low of 73.

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.

Parkes, banned for season

Romeo Parkes, Jamaica international player, has been banned for the rest of this season as ruled by the United States Soccer League (USSL) for his attack on defender Karl Ouimette.

Parkes, former Pittsburg Riverhounds player, kicked a New York Red Bulls player in the back as he walked off the field, this came after both players were given a red card for an incident towards the end of the match.

Ouimette fell to the floor and had to be carried from the field on a stretcher. After testing and exams, it was released recently that the player did not suffer a significant injury.

The incident, which has gone viral, shows Parkes, who is a part of the country’s provisional Copa Centenario squad, the subject of strong criticism in several quarters.  The Riverhounds have terminated the player’s contract, but USL president Jake Edwards has still spoken up about what has happened, not condoning this action for other players at any time.

“There is no place in our game for this type of unprofessional conduct and our decision reinforces the USL’s commitment to preserving the integrity and reputation of the game,” said Edwards. “Player safety is paramount and any type of behavior that is detrimental to the well-being of our players will not be tolerated.”

5 innovations in homebuilding

What’s everyone talking about…

In the last 10 years, televisions have become flatter, video rental stores have nearly disappeared and phones have become devices that are more like a computer than a phone.

There’s good reason that when most people think about changes in technology, they tend to think about the digital world. After all, with the news full of reports of driverless cars, it’s easy to forget that some of the most important technological advancements are happening around us in ways we may not be aware of — namely — in our homes.

From drywall to windows to insulation, home building materials have developed in a way that might seem like something from a science fiction movie. But as more homeowners are getting accustomed to living with these comforts, they wonder how they ever did without them. Here are five of the most exciting innovations.

Sound-dampening drywall – Everyone wants to go home to some peace and quiet, but in a busy household with televisions, video games and music playing out of surround-sound systems, it can be hard to find quiet. Some look to noise canceling headphones or sound-muffling curtains, but engineers at CertainTeed Gypsum have discovered that something as simple as the right drywall can do wonders in canceling out noise. Their SilentFX(R) QuickCut noise-reducing drywall puts a blanket over sound energy and significantly blocks the amount of sound carried through walls and ceilings.

A new lease on lumber – Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is a material made by gluing together smaller pieces of timber to create large slabs that serve as an alternative to steel and concrete. As strong as steel, and in many ways even more fireproof, CLT allows for contractors to put up incredibly durable buildings incredibly fast. With computer-aided design programs, architects can design a building and send the exact specifications to robotic routers that cut the exact dimensions for each piece so that the entire building can be assembled like a big piece of furniture.

Quartz, an engineering miracle – While granite countertops and marble bathtubs may be at the top of everyone’s list, the cost can be prohibitive. Quartz, which is a name for stone that has been engineered by grinding quartz with resins, polymers and coloring, has emerged as a substitute that outperforms granite and marble, for a fraction of a price. Extremely durable and virtually maintenance free, modern engineered quartz comes in a variety of colors and patterns that mimic the erratic design prized in natural stone.

Air-quality control – People spend a lot of time and money ensuring their home has good air flow. However, most people aren’t aware of the role the right drywall can play in ensuring clean, breathable air. Common household products such as carpet, perfume, hairspray, candles, flooring and more actually give off formaldehyde that affects the quality of the air. As part of the new “smart” generation of drywall,AirRenew(R) with M2Tech(R) technology is a drywall that is not only moisture and mold resistant, but actively removes formaldehyde from the air and converts it into safe inert compounds, contributing to a healthier home environment.

Bio concrete – Though it’s the world’s most common building material, concrete ages quickly. Changes in temperature, the shifting of the earth, weather and chemicals all contribute to the inevitable cracks and deterioration. Several years ago, scientists in the Netherlands developed a kind of concrete that can repair itself by integrating limestone-creating bacteria that “heal” cracks. This process is similar to the way bones heal themselves when broken. The result for home builders is stronger foundations, less seasonal repair and more overall value.

While people may not line up outside a store to get these materials the way they do with the newest phone release, these technologies will have positive effects on people’s daily lives. So if you’re curious about what innovative drywall solutions are available today, visit CertainTeed.com/Silent-FX and CertainTeed.com/CleanTheAir.

 

Brandpointcontent.com

Two new Zika cases in Miami-Dade

Zika virus miami-dade florida

Bring total to 109 confirmed cases in Florida

Two new cases of the zika virus have been confirmed in Miami-Dade County, announced by state health officials. The new cases bring the grand total to 109 confirmed cases of the virus in Florida.

Miami-Dade has received the brunt of infections with 44 cases – all which were transmitted by residents who recently traveled to the Caribbean and South America, and were not domestic transacted. So far, Broward County also has 15 reported cases in total.

As the rainy season approaches in South Florida, Governor Rick Scott heads to Washington D.C. this week to lobby congress for support in combating the virus. Governor Scott also plans to meet with several state officials to discuss prevention strategies for the state, including Celeste Philip, a physician and interim state surgeon general; Wayne Gale, director of the Lee County Mosquito Control District; and Bryan Koon, director of the state’s Division of Emergency Management. In addition, U.S. Senator for South Florida Marco Rubio is calling on Congress to approve President Barack Obama’s request for $1.9 billion in emergency funding to combat the Zika virus.

Meanwhile, the Center of Disease Control (CDC) has updated its guidance recommending that state health officials use blood and urine tests for identifying acute Zika virus disease. This follow recent research from the Florida health department showing that urine samples more accurately detect the virus than other testing methods.

So far, the CDC has reported 472 Zika virus infections in total in the continental U.S. as of May 4. Of the 109 zika virus cases confirmed in Florida, seven are pregnant women, who are considered to be at greatest risk from the Zika virus because of an established link between the virus and congenital microcephaly, a condition in which a newborn’s head is smaller than expected, which can lead to developmental issues.

 

Haitian Lawmakers fear dissolution

Haitian Lawmakers fear dissolution

Electoral Verification Commission to verify elections

Haitian lawmakers have gone on their annual leave with a warning to the Interim President appointed Electoral Verification Commission that their legitimacy is guaranteed by the government. Many of the senators and deputies will return to their jobs on June 13, and they have openly stated their concerns about the work of the Commission that is chaired by a former member of the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP), Francois Benoit.

“I remind the Commissioners of that Commission that the legitimacy and the duration of our mandate (as parliamentarian)] are guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of the Republic,” said Cholzer Chancy, the President of the Chamber of Deputies.

The main function of the five-member Commission is to restore confidence in the electoral process by examining poll results from last year when opposition figures claimed that they had been rigged in favor of the government’s candidate. The Commission are expected to develop a methodology for a technical analysis of available data to the Votes Tabulation Center and are also to “purify the voting process by analyzing the signing sheets, the partial electoral lists, count sheets, minutes of counting, minutes of deficiency, incidence minutes, ballots and already registered.”

In addition, the Commission is also expected to “evaluate all decisions of litigation organs of the Provisional Electoral Council having been the subject of denunciations, of regularly documented complaints, and propose to appropriate review of these decisions that for the purposes of law.”

On Monday, 21 out of the 24 senators and 82 of the 92 deputies were present for the last sitting of the first regular session of the parliament, which opened on January 11. Some of the legislators openly expressed fears that Interim President Privert could take advantage of their absence to dissolve parliament, in order to stay in power beyond the terms of the February 5 agreement.

The second round of the presidential election to elect a successor to Michel Martelly who left office on February 7, was scheduled for April 24, as stipulated in the February 5 political accord to transfer power from the caretaker government to an elected one. But last month, Privert said he expects an election calendar to be published by the end of May, thereby throwing into doubt the installation of a new head of state by May 14.

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