Home Blog Page 1476

CDC encourages guidance to prevent sexual transmission of Zika virus

On February 5, 2016, the CDC published interim recommendations for protecting people against sexual transmission of Zika virus.

This guidance was issued after lab confirmation of the first case of Zika virus infection in a non-traveler in the continental United States, which was linked to sexual contact with an infected partner.

CDC and state public health departments are now investigating 14 new reports of possible sexual transmission of Zika virus, including several involving pregnant women. In two of the new suspected sexual transmission events, Zika virus infection has been confirmed in women whose only known risk factor was sexual contact with an ill male partner who had recently traveled to an area with local Zika virus transmission; testing for the male partners is still pending.

For four additional suspected sexual transmission events, preliminary laboratory evidence (IgM antibody test) is available for the women, but confirmatory tests are pending. For eight other suspected events, the investigation is ongoing. In all events for which information is available, travelers were men and reported symptom onset was within 2 weeks before the non-traveling female partner’s symptoms began.  Like previously reported cases of sexual transmission, these cases involve possible transmission of the virus from men to their sex partners.  At this time, there is no evidence that women can transmit Zika virus to their sex partners; however, more research is needed to understand this issue.

Although sexual transmission of Zika virus infection is possible, mosquito bites remain the primary way that Zika virus is transmitted. Because there currently is no vaccine or treatment for Zika virus, the best way to avoid Zika virus infection is to prevent mosquito bites.

Because these new reports suggest sexual transmission may be a more likely means of transmission for Zika virus than previously considered, CDC issued a Health Advisory Notice (HAN) today to underscore the importance of adhering to the interim guidance published on February 5.

Lauderhill to host Citizenship Drive

Drive set for February 27 and 28

In partnership with Broward County Commissioner Dale V.C. Holness, District 9,  the Florida New Americans, and Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the City of Lauderhill will be hosting the  two-day Lauderhill Citizenship Drive this weekend, set for Saturday, February 27 and Sunday, Sunday February 28 at the Lauderhill Mall.

The free Lauderhill Citizenship Drive is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for both days. Hundreds are expected to turn out, as volunteers both legal and non-legal will provide assistance with filling out the N-400 US Citizenship application and other required documents.

“I am excited to partner with both Florida New Americans and SEIU Florida, to bring this Citizenship Drive to the Lauderhill Mall,” said Commissioner Holness. “I am happy the Drive will be on the weekend, which is helpful for those who work during the week.  I encourage everyone to arrive early and bring the required documents so it can be a smooth process.”

Jamaican designer presents collection during New York Fashion Week

Designer channeled the Jamaican immigrant experience during presentation

As New York Fashion Week Fall / Winter 2016 came to a close on February 18, designer Glenroy March presented his latest collection La Vie du Noir (of House of D’Marsh) at the Soho District location of the high-end European mattress maker, Coco Mat.

The Fall 2016 runway show, which coincided with the celebration of Black History Month saw the Jamaican-born designer drawing inspiration on the immigrant experience.

March’s season’s collection was inspired by the story of a black stylish couple from the fashion capital of Paris who emigrated to New York City and the challenges of race and color they face in adjusting given their strong sense of style and fashion.

As has become customary for the designer, each show has an unusual or unexpected opening. And this year was no different as this season opened with a talented dance trio comprised of two males and one female from the Alvin Ailey Dance School in New York.

Before a large-sized crowd, the Fall 2016 collection opened with the campaign dress which set the mood for the show which saw the designer using black as the basis of his collection complimented by a remarkable fabric which he took back from a recent Paris trip, a mix of white, aqua and gold that contrasted well with the collection.

The Fall 2016 collection, designed for both women and men, comprised a number of cocktail dresses, a signature evening gown and men’s casual elegant wear.

 

AARLCC goes Bollywood at Destination India

On Friday March 18 from 6:30 – 9:30 pm at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, ladies, wrap yourself in bright fabrics with costume jewelry galore and men, dress up in flashy suits or flowing robes and turbans at Destination Fridays: India, a glamorous evening of Bollywood-style entertainment.

Attendees will be able to participate in free Bollywood lessons in the lobby by the Nach Bollywood Style dance company, that will introduce you to the elegant hand gestures that tell a story and the dance steps that are often fused with hip hop and reggae moves.

During the evening, there will be a cooking demonstration of curry and spices by Billo’s Cuisine as attendees will have the opportunity dine on Indian cuisine including naan bread, chicken tikka masala with traditional gulab jamun for dessert, courtesy of Punjabi Dhaba and Tandoor Catering—with an assortment of beverages to choose from, including authentic Indian sodas donated by Patel Brothers Grocery along with a signature drink.

Entrance fee is $10 (payable at the door or through Eventbrite). For more information, call 954-357-6210.

Five FMU basketball seniors honored on Senior Night

Florida Memorial University’s (FMU) Men’s Basketball seniors, Samuel Dorismond, Davonte Byrd, Clive Smith, Shaquille Harding & Sean Daniels Jr were recently honored at FMU’s Senior Night 2016 game against visiting Johnson & Wales University.

The five players were honored by Head Coach Artis Maddox at the start of the game, for their hard work and dedication to the program. After the festivities, they helped the Lions battle Johnson & Wales University.

In their final regular season home game as a Lion, Samuel Dorismond led a balancedscoring attack for FMU with 15 points, 2 boards and 3 steals, Davonte Byrd chipped in 9 points, 3 boards and 3 steals and Shaquille Harding poured in 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Clive Smith scored 2 points, grabbed 3 rebounds and had 3 assists. While Sean Daniels Jr scored 4 points and grabbed 2 rebounds.

Looking to buy a home? 5 mortgage steps you need to know

The home loan process can seem intimidating, especially for a first-time homebuyer. It is not a simple process, but it doesn’t have to be too complicated. There are many resources available to help you prepare for your home buying journey, and your mortgage lender can answer the questions you have throughout the process.

Here are some of the key steps to the home loan process, as well as some tips to help you understand what you can expect:

1. Preparation and self-assessment

Before you dive head-first into buying a home, make sure that you know how much you can afford.  The first step is to calculate your “debt-to-income ratio.” You can do this by adding up your current monthly bills then subtracting your total current income. This will help you determine whether you can afford a mortgage payment, and if so, what amount might fit into your budget. Using an online mortgage calculator is a good way to help you determine what the estimated cost of your monthly mortgage payment will be. Doing these calculations first will help you assess your resources and determine your budget to purchase a home.

2. The loan application

Download a blank loan application ahead of time so you can look it over and familiarize yourself with it. This will give you an idea of the information you need when completing and submitting the application. The necessary documents may include: proof of income, proof of employment for the past two years, proof of identity, proof of residency and your social security card.

3. Origination and Underwriting

Origination – The loan officer will review your financing options, work with you to complete the credit application and create the loan account.

Underwriting – An underwriter will review the application and determine the level of credit risk you represent based on your credit score, income, existing debt and down payment. You may be asked to provide additional information about your finances during this step.

4. Satisfying loan conditions and full loan approval

In this step, you will receive a “conditions to approval” list from your lender, which outlines the tasks you must complete before the loan can be closed. For example, the lender may ask for additional documentation to verify income, savings or emergency funds or other proof that you can afford to repay the loan. At this point in the process the lender may offer a conditional loan approval and start the document verification process. If you accept the conditional loan approval offer, once all conditions have been met, the lender will issue a full loan approval.

5. Processing

Once you’ve selected your dream home, you’ll sign a purchase agreement with the seller. The purchase agreement tells the lender how much you have agreed to pay to purchase the home. The lender may then have the home appraised and will provide you with a copy of the appraisal.

6. Closing

In the final step of the process, the lender works with a title company to obtain and review a title report and then finalize your title on the home. The titling company receives a closing package, which contains the documents that need to be signed, recorded and become part of your mortgage loan file. At the closing, you will sign all closing documents and pay any closing costs. The lender then receives all of this signed paperwork to complete the process.

Once this process is complete, you’re ready to move into your dream home. The home loan process may take some time, but these steps are well worth the wait.

Flu vaccine nearly 60 percent effective according to preliminary CDC data

Weeks of ongoing flu activity still ahead, CDC urges flu vaccination

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today reported preliminary overall influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) of 59 percent this season. These data were presented at a meeting of the agency’s Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) in Atlanta. This finding is comparable to past estimates for seasons when most circulating flu viruses and vaccine viruses have been similar.

“This means that getting a flu vaccine this season reduced the risk of having to go to the doctor because of flu by nearly 60 percent,” said Joseph Bresee, M.D., chief of CDC’s Epidemiology and Prevention Branch. “It’s good news and underscores the importance and the benefit of both annual and ongoing vaccination efforts this season.”

There were sufficient data from the U.S. Flu VE Network to also calculate more specific VE estimates:

·         51 percent VE against the H1N1 viruses responsible for most flu illness this season

·         76 percent VE against all influenza B viruses

·         79 percent VE against the B/Yamagata lineage of B viruses

At this time, there are not enough data to estimate VE by age group, nor to estimate VE against H3N2 viruses or B/Victoria lineage viruses.

CDC maintains and monitors several influenza surveillance systems. This season, influenza-like-illness levels and the numbers of influenza-positive laboratory tests became elevated the week ending January 16. Activity now has been elevated for five consecutive weeks. For the past 13 seasons, flu seasons have averaged 13 weeks in length, with a low of one week to a high of 20 weeks.

“Flu activity this season started a bit later and has been lower so far than we’ve seen during the previous three seasons, but activity is still on the upswing and expected to continue for several weeks,” said Bresee. “Flu causes serious illnesses and deaths every year. This season, CDC has received reports of hospitalizations and deaths in young, otherwise healthy people who were infected with influenza A H1N1, but not vaccinated.”

While flu vaccine effectiveness can vary, CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine as the best way to prevent seasonal flu. CDC also recommends rapid treatment of seriously ill and high risk suspect flu patients with influenza antiviral drugs.

Interim VE estimates are based on data collected from the U.S. Flu VE Network from November 2, 2015, through February 12, 2016. With weeks to go for the current flu season, VE estimates may change. CDC will continue to publish influenza laboratory and disease surveillance data weekly in FluView. Updated VE estimates will be provided as warranted and final VE estimates will be published after the season ends.

Also at the February 24, 2016 ACIP meeting, the committee renewed the universal recommendation for influenza vaccination, which has been in place since 2010. The committee also amended language related to flu vaccine recommendations for egg-allergic patients so that they may now receive the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV).

 

Did Beyonce cross the line?

National Weekly, February 25, 2016

JLP pulls off election upset win

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, February 25, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

The Jamaica Labor Party squeezed past the ruling People’s National Party late last night to win the general elections in Jamaica. The JLP won 51.7 percent of the votes with 33 seats, beating out the at PNP 48.3 percent with 30 seats. In his acceptance seat, Prime Minister-elect Andrew Holness pledged to take Jamaica from “poverty to prosperity.”

Jamaica Tourist Board has announced the appointment of Francine Carter Henry as Miami-based regional manager. Carter Henry will be responsible for establishing relationships with tour operators and airline stakeholders by developing marketing strategies for Jamaica.

Promoting greater civic engagement, Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness will be hosting a two-day citizenship drive, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday at the Lauderhill Mill. Hundreds are expected to turn out as legal volunteers will be on hand to provide guidance throughout the citizenship application process.

City of North Miami Beach has declared today Esther Anderson Day, in honor of the famed Jamaican actress and filmmaker. In association with the docMiami International Film Festival, there will be a special free screening tonight of Anderson’s classic 1973 film with Sidney Poitier, “A Warm December,” starting 7 pm at the Julius Littman Performing Arts Theater. Miami Councilwoman Barbara Kramer will also present Anderson with an official City Proclamation.

In sports, the ever popular International Night Cricket T20 Tournament begins tomorrow night starting 5 pm at the Lauderhill Sports Park. The tournament will kick off with Team Jamaica facing Team Trinidad and Tobago. The tournament continues every Saturday night until the finals on May 21st.

What’s trending:

Bouvier Clark, widow of late singer Bunny Rugs is calling on reggae band Third World to pay out money owed to her late husband. In a statement, reps defended the band, saying any royalties would be paid by performing rights agencies.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Mostly Sunny in Broward County with a high of 73 and a low of 49. For Miami-Dade, sunny with a high of 74 and a low of 53.

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 outlet. And be sure to check out our in-depth breakdown of Jamaica’s general elections. Go beyond the headlines, and delve into the deeper consequences of this year’s elections, from who won your home constituency, to what may happen next for Jamaica.

Jamaica brings warm vibes underground to New Yorkers

Port Authority Trans-Hudson commuters pose for a snapshot against a poster featuring Moon Palace Jamaica Grande’s warm sandy beach.

The home of “all right” invites commuters to enter to win a trip to Jamaica

The Jamaica Tourist Board engaged commuters at the 33rd Street Port Authority Trans-Hudson (PATH) station in Manhattan on Thursday, February 25 from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., offering New York and New Jersey residents a brief escape to the warm island of Jamaica.

Jamaica Tourist Board’s Business Development Managers, Marcia Sinclair and Kenton Senior, were on-site to interact with PATH commuters, providing travel information and facilitating consumers as they enter to win an all-inclusive Jamaican getaway to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande.

Jamaica Tourist Board’s Business Development Managers, Marcia Sinclair (second left) and Kenton Senior (right), interact with PATH commuters/
Jamaica Tourist Board’s Business Development Managers, Marcia Sinclair (second left) and Kenton Senior (right), interact with PATH commuters/

The event also featured live reggae music by Lion Melta, with giveaways of Jamaica “Home of All Right” branded lip balm and sunscreen, and a chance to take a picture at the “Home of All Right” photo booth.

Independent reggae artist, Lion Melta, provided live entertainment and thrilled passersby with a number of acoustic reggae hits.
Independent reggae artist, Lion Melta, provided live entertainment and thrilled passersby with a number of acoustic reggae hits.

From February 25 to March 7, those who participate in taking a selfie with any of the Jamaica ads on the PATH, tagging #HomeofAllRight, @VisitJamaicaNow and @PalaceResorts on Twitter, will also be entered to win a trip to Jamaica.

Haiti-based Sunrise Airways announces fleet expansion

New aircraft to pave the way for routes connecting more of the Western Caribbean

Sunrise Airways recently announced that it will expand its fleet with the addition of a new 46-seat ATR 42-320 aircraft. The airline expects to accept delivery of the new ATR in late-February 2016 in advance of launching new routes better serving a wider swath of the Western Caribbean from its hub in Port-au-Prince.

“Bringing an ATR into the Sunrise fold represents a bright new beginning for our airline; one that will see us branching out swiftly to serve longer-haul routes connecting more of the Western Caribbean more effectively than ever before,” said Philippe Bayard, President of Sunrise Airways.

From its hub in Port-au-Prince, Sunrise Airways currently operates regularly scheduled service to/from Santo Domingo (JBQ), Santiago de Cuba (SCU), and Cap Haitien (CAP) utilizing 19-seat Jetstream 32 EP aircraft.

“This fleet expansion is really all about our passengers, many of whom have long expressed an interest in having us spread our wings further afield,” added Bayard. “Havana, Camaguey, Kingston, Nassau, a return of the service to Turks and Caicos – the demand is strong for these and several other attractive regional gateways. Now, with the added size, comfort, and luggage capacity afforded by the ATR, we can look to serving routes like these with the same uncompromising style, safety, and reliability that our passengers have come to expect from Sunrise.”

The first and only Haitian-owned airline to be awarded a Part 129 Dominican Operating Permit, Sunrise Airways currently serves Santo Domingo (JBQ), Santiago de Cuba (SCU), and Cap Haitien (CAP).

New flights connecting Port-au-Prince with Kingston, Jamaica (KIN); Providenciales, Turks & Caicos (PLS); Camaguey, Cuba (CMW); and Nassau, The Bahamas (NAS) are planned for 2016. In line with the expansion of its route network, Sunrise Airways will also augment its fleet in 2016, adding new 46-seat ATR 42-320 aircraft to serve alongside its pre-existing cadre of 19-seat Jetstream 32 EP turboprops.

#Jamaicaelections: Jamaica Labour Party wins 2016 election

jamaica-labour-party-wins-jamaica-elections
Jamaican Labour Party leader Andrew Holness

#Jamaicaelections: Jamaica Labour Party wins 33 of  63 constituency seats

On Thursday evening, the Andrew Holness-led Jamaica Labor Party (JLP)  squeezed a tight victory over the Portia Simpson Miller-led People’s National Party (PNP), winning 33 seats to the PNP’s 30 in the Jamaican general elections this Thursday. The JLP won 51.7 percent of the votes and the PNP 48.3 percent, a margin of only 3.4 percent – the reverse of what most pollsters predicted.

JLP also proved wrong the pundits’ claims that the party would lose if voter turnout was low. But, with a 52.69 percent turnout – the lowest ever in the country’s history – it was obvious the JLP garnered more support.

jamaica-labour-party-wins-jamaica-elections
Andrew Holness, leader of the opposition Jamaican Labour Party, shows his ink-stained finger after casting his vote at a polling station Thursday in Kingston. (Gilbert Bellamy/Reuters)

The results were surprising to the many South Floridians who hosted election watch parties Thursday evening. Speaking from an election watch party in Pembroke Pines, Hortense Prince said she kept close contact with both parties’ campaign, “and from all reports, the PNP seemed set to win at least 36 seats, and the elections. I am surprised, but offer my congratulations to the JLP and Andrew Holness.”

The Jamaica Labor Part secured victory by winning 11 of 12 marginal seats. These seats included victory by Juliet Holness in the St. Andrew East Rural Constituency over Imani Duncan-Price. Holness will join her husband Andrew in the new Jamaican parliament. Duncan Price’s sister, Patricia Duncan Sutherland, also lost the marginal constituency of Clarendon South Eastern, which she was touted to win over veteran JLP MP Rudyard Spencer. Another closely watched marginal seat in St. Catherine W. Central was won by the JLP’s Dr. Christopher Tufton, who returns to parliament after losing his seat in St. Elizabeth in the 2011 general elections.

Watch now: Wanna Bet? Betting company offers bets on who will win Jamaican elections

Regarding the PNP’s unexpected loss, James Sinclair of Coral Springs suggests that the “PNP was over confident and may not have paid attention to the ground work in the marginal constituencies as they said they would have. The people wanted to see and hear the PNP debate and answer tough questions. I think that would have inspired more people to turn out, including PNP supporters, who may have wanted more assurance from their leaders. I recall Trinidad and Tobago’s former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar refused to debate her opponent in that countries general election and also lost.”

Prince’s husband Granville said he’s pleased with the closeness of the results. “The PNP has a large parliamentary group, and should be an effective opposition. This is needed, because the PNP did a good job in stabilizing the economy, and the PNP must ensure that the new government build on this and not run the country into an untenable debt situation again. The PNP must also ensure that the JLP keeps its promises to ease the financial burdens on ordinary Jamaicans.”

Most members of Portia Simpson Miller’s cabinet will also return to parliament. “This should allow the new Leader of the Opposition to appoint an effective shadow cabinet,” said Granville.

Holness, 43, will be assuming his second term as prime minister, but this is the first time he has secured the mandate of Jamaican voters. He was elected by JLP parliamentarians to succeed former Prime Minister Bruce Golding in 2011, following Golding’s resignation in October that year. He served for less than three months, when he called and lost the general elections in December 2011. Most members in his Cabinet have also been reelected, including Edmund Bartlett, Audley Shaw, Daryl Vaz, Olivia “Babsy” Grange and Horace Chang. In leading the JLP to victory, Holness also answered his critics, who said he would be unable to lead the JLP to an election victory.

Watch Jamaica Labour Party leader Andrew Holness deliver his victory speech:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWWSFML-Rjg

 

 

Gianni Infantino elected as new president of FIFA

FIFA President Gianni Infantino
Gianni Infantino elected as new president of FIFA

Gianni Infantino elected after a second round of voting

Gianni Infantino, a top administrator in European soccer, was elected president of FIFA, the sport’s global governing body, in an election on Friday.

Mr. Infantino will replace Sepp Blatter, who announced his resignation just days after winning a fifth four-year team in May amid a growing corruption crisis.

It was a surprising victory, as many experts predicted Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa of the Bahrain Royal Family would win the election which featured five candidates.

In his victory speech, Infantino said, “I told you I went through a journey, an exceptional journey and a journey which made me meet many fantastic people – many people who love football and believe in football, and many people who deserve FIFA to be respected.”

 “We will restore the respect people have in FIFA and everybody will applaud us, and they will applaud all of you for what you do.We have to be proud of what we do for FIFA. I would like to thank all of you and all of the other candidates. It was a great sign of democracy of FIFA. I want to restore a new era in FIFA where we put football at the centre of the speech.”
Gianni Infantino shakes hand with Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa, who was second in the voting.

Infantino won election during the second round of voting after the first round yielded no candidate with the required 138 votes, a two-thirds majority of the 207 countries eligible to cast a ballot. After that round, Infantino had 88 votes and Sheikh Salman had 85. The two other candidates to receive votes – Prince Ali bin al-Hussein of Jordan and Jerome Champagne of France – finished with 27 and seven votes, respectively.

Blatter, the previous president of FIFA who first took office in 1998, was ineligible for the election because he had been banned from the organization by the FIFA Ethics Committee for eight years, a sentence that was later reduced to six years.

Bob Marley’s nephew preaches healthy living on “Dr. Oz” and “The Today Show”

Charles Mattocks

Following the footsteps of famous uncle, Bob Marley, health advocate Charles Mattocks is spreading the gospel of conscious living to American audiences – this time through healthy eating. From diabetes awareness to accessible healthy foods, Mattocks has been campaigning all over daytime TV, from “Dr. Oz” to “The Today Show,” educating the public about the healing benefits of good food.

“My Uncle Bob has inspired and helped the world through the message of his music,” says Mattocks. “I want to help the world through the message of my films and TV shows.”

Mattocks, a resident of Tampa and son of Marley’s sister Constance Marley, is the acclaimed dietician and personality “The Poor Chef,” celebrated for developing healthy economic meals for under $7. His foray into healthy cooking marked an unexpected turn for the filmmaker, who was inspired when he was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. In collaboration with the American Heart Association, Mattocks soon published “The Budget-Friendly Fresh and Local Diabetes Cookbook,” which explored how anyone could manage the disease through diet and exercise.

“So many people have diabetes and are confused about the appropriate diet and lifestyle to counter the disease,” says Mattocks. “This has caused too much suffering and unwarranted deaths.”

Using his background in filmmaking, he has also produced documentary “The Diabetic You,” through his film company, Halo Films. Due to be released in June, the film travels around the world to portray the plight of diabetes, and the efforts to effectively treat the disease. Mattocks also plans to bring the fight to Jamaica, with a new reality program in the works called “Reverse.” To be filmed in Jamaica and released later this year, the show features guests fighting the disease through proper diet and exercise.

“This will be similar to another reality show, ‘The Biggest Loser,’ where overweight people are challenged to lose weight,” says Mattocks. “But guests on ‘Reverse’ will be challenged to reverse diabetes.”

Through his other documentary “Trial by Fire,” Mattocks also seeks to spread awareness about a rare, painful nerve disease called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), which his mother suffers from. About 200,000 people in the U.S. and another 100,000 worldwide live with this disease, which causes excruciating pain all over the body, with no identified cure.

The documentary has been aired at film festivals across the US, including the Hollywood Film Festival in South Florida, where it won awards for Best Director and The Most Impactful Film. The film features Mattocks’ mother and her personal struggles with the disease, but “the main purpose of the film is to draw attention, especially from the medical fraternity, to the thousands suffering from this disease,” says Mattocks. “I am hoping [the film] generate a movement to advance treatment, and a possible cure for the disease.”

Mattocks is also coordinating a social media campaign to draw attention to the sufferings of CRPS victims. He has embarked on a mission to distribute the documentary widely, including through Netflix.

Mattocks, who plans to relocate to South Florida within a few months, said he’s “comfortable and motivated” – creating, producing and distributing films with “a positive effect on millions of people worldwide afflicted with disease, especially rare diseases like CRPS. You don’t have to be a doctor to help the sick, you just have to care.”

Jamaican Cultural Center heads to Lauderhill

Project receives land donation next to Lauderhill Performing Arts Center

The upcoming Jamaica Resource and Cultural Center can now officially call Lauderhill home, as the governing Jamaica Diaspora Legacy Foundation (JDLF) confirms a parcel of land along State Road 7, next to the recently opened Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, has been donated to the project. The planned property would include a historical depository center, an art gallery, performance spaces, community meeting rooms, as well as a banquet hall.

JDLF board members met with regional developer Yokam Izhak, to discuss a deal, and “Izhak gave assurance he would be donating no less than 10,000 acres to the Foundation to build the property,” said board member and realtor Chester Bishop. The deed for the donated property is to be presented to the Foundation shortly.

Izhakl, who is also the new owner of the nearby Lauderhill Mall, said he agreed to donate the land as his way “of giving back to the Jamaican community, which has been very supportive of my businesses over the years.” Izhak said his decision was also influenced on the recommendation of Broward Commissioner Dale Holness, a Jamaica American, and City of Lauderhill Commissioner Howard Berger.

The board of the JDLF has agreed to accept the donated land, which “will provide a significant boost,” says Bishop, as the Foundation embarks on its drive to raise over $5 million to construct the center. “Acquiring the land takes us a far way on our goal to build the center.”

Maurice Grey, building engineer and an advisor to the JDLF, who along with local architect Neil Hall is designing the center, said the original designs for a sprawling one-floor building “will be redesigned as a multi-story structure, retaining the proposed components.”

Earlier plans for the building included a 350 seat performing arts theater. However, according to Cheryl Winter, the Foundation’s secretary, with the donated land placing the center adjacent to the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, the Foundation is “hoping to establish access to its facilities,” for center members, eliminating the performing arts theater “until further down the road.”

Izhak also plans, in conjunction with the City of Lauderhill, to build a multi-story car park on the property. The car park will be available for visitors to the site, which is also earmarked for a hotel, restaurants, and retail shops.

The city of Lauderhill has long been one of the cities earmarked for the project, due to the area’s long-standing Jamaican community. Alternative sites were also considered in cities with vibrant Jamaican communities, such as Lauderdale Lakes, Miramar and Pembroke Pines.

HANA tackles critical community health issues at general meeting

HANA board members and members at their recently held general meeting.

Presentations focused on highlighting heart disease education and awareness

From heart disease to the zika virus, community health issues were at the top of the agenda this past Saturday at the Haitian American Nurses Association of Florida (HANA) general meeting, held at Miami Dade College, North Campus.

In honor of February as American Heart Health Month, presentations focused on highlighting heart disease education and awareness. HANA of Florida President Amina Dubuisson discussed about the prevalence of heart disease among women in particular. In the United States, one in four women die from heart disease. Dr. Deidree Edwards, Senior Medical Science Liaison of AstraZeneca, provided HANA members an outstanding presentation on Clinical Consideration in Acute Coronary Syndrome and Prior MI. ASN & RN-BSN students from Miami Dade College Benjamin Leon School of Nursing and Chamberlain College of Nursing also created beautiful teaching poster boards highlighting various aspects of the disease and how the condition can be alleviated by lifestyle changes nutrition, stress management and physical activity.

Due to the overwhelming concerns of the Zika Virus in the global community, HANA also felt the urgency to educate members, and how they can serve as health ambassadors to their families and the community.

HANA Co-Chair of Louise Marjori Paul, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC, made an excellent job presentation on the disease relatively new to the Caribbean and U.S. In the spirit of collaboration, there were also presentations from Mme. Yolanda Nitti, MSN, RN, the President of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses – Miami Chapter and Nahomie Mirville, Chair of Education and Past President of HANA. Member was also updated on important state legislative reform by Dr. Marie O. Etienne, Chair of Legislative Affairs of HANA of Florida. Of particular interest was the HB 423 presented by State Representative Cary Pigman and SB 676 by Senator Denise Grimsley, which would allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to prescribe controlled substances. Another promising bill called HB 325/SB 572, from Haitian-American Rep. Daphne Campbell and Sen. Thad Altman, would allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to initiate involuntary examination under the Baker Act of persons believed to have mental illness.

HANA executive members also welcomed all the new members, and thanked current members for their continued support of the association. “The success of the association lies on the great support of the members, sponsors, and the community,” said the association in a statement.

A nutritious but enticing salad recipe

It’s easy to get carried away with heavy entrees and sweet treats as vegetable side dishes fall to the wayside. Instead, opt for a dish that feels indulgent even though it’s filled with greens and naturally good seasonal ingredients.

This recipe for Apple, Gouda and Farro Salad from the blog Two Peas and Their Pod is a delicious, healthy and hearty addition.. It’s the ultimate cold-weather salad full of flavor and textures from the apple slices, Gouda bits, farro, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries and a simple apple cider vinaigrette. Plus, it takes only minutes to throw together, making it the perfect time-saving side dish for any holiday get-together.

Apple, Gouda and Farro Salad

Makes 6 servings as a side dish, or 4 servings as a meal

Ingredients:

For the salad:

1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts

6 cups mixed greens

1 large apple, core removed and thinly sliced

6 ounces Arla Dofino(R) Gouda cheese, cut into cubes

1 cup cooked farro

1/3 cup dried cranberries

For the apple cider vinaigrette:

1/4 cup olive oil

1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 Teaspoons honey

1 Teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 Teaspoon minced shallot

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

First, toast the walnuts in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. Cook until the walnuts turn brown and smell toasted. This will take about 5 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl to cool.

Place the greens in a large bowl. Top with sliced apples, Gouda cheese cubes, farro, dried cranberries and toasted walnuts.

To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, mustard and shallot. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Drizzle the salad with the vinaigrette and gently toss. Serve!

Note: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples are great options, but any apple variety will work.

Brandpointcontent.com

Antigua prepares for referendum on CCJ

Prime Minister of Antigua Gaston Brown

Prime minister reiterates call for non-partisan approach 

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has reiterated the need for there to be a non-partisan approach ahead of a proposed national referendum on whether or not Antigua and Barbuda should adopt the Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as its final appellate court.

Antigua and Barbuda will launch a public education programme on March 10 as the island prepares for the referendum on whether to replace the London-based Privy Council with the CCJ, which was established in 2001 by regional governments.

While St John’s is a member of the CCJ’s Original Jurisdiction, only Barbados, Dominica and Guyana are the Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries that have signed on to the appellate jurisdiction of the court that also serves as an international tribunal interpreting the Treaty of Chaguaramas that governs the regional integration movement.

Prime Minister Browne said that matters surrounding the CCJ in Antigua and Barbuda can be ‘divisive political issues’ and in recognition of this fact, his administration sought to have a commitment from the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) that neither party will seek to politicise the issue.

The prime minister repeated an earlier statement that he will not proceed with the referendum if it becomes clear that there are any attempts to politicise the venture.

“It is not an occasion to test political strength … for this is such a critical issue regarding our independence and our sovereignty, that we believe it should not be the subject of partisan politics,” PM Browne stated.

Prime Minister Browne said that his administration has adopted the philosophical position that issues surrounding Antigua and Barbuda’s independence and sovereignty will be approached in a mature manner.

“We must recognise that if we are to have a truly independent and sovereign country, we must be able to preside over our own jurisprudence. If we don’t have that level of maturity, we will not proceed,” he said.

The Antigua and Barbuda leader also expressed strong confidence in the level of justice coming out of the CCJ.

He said the judgements so far are on par with those coming out of any other jurisdiction, in any part of the world and Browne said despite that there is still much scepticism and what he termed “unfounded notions” surrounding the CCJ.

PM Browne made reference to the efforts made to ensure the independence of the CCJ noting that among other things, it is independently funded which gives it a greater autonomy than most other courts.

He also expressed the view that the Caribbean’s reluctance to sever ties with the Privy Council may have something to do with the legacies of colonialism.

“There is much suspicion associated with our own: we tend to accept imported talents, imported things, and we are very suspicious and unsupportive of our own. Clearly, this is one of the legacies of our colonial past that we have to address,” he noted.

 

Black History Month Spotlight: Frank Greene

Frank Greene

Pioneering light

Considered one of the first black technologist, Frank Greene stands among the ranks of other Silicon Valley giants as one of 63 inductees into the Silicon Valley Engineering Hall of Fame. He first made his mark in the 1960s, developing the pioneering high-speed semiconductor computer-memory systems at Fairchild Semiconductor Research and Development Labs, and held the patent for the integrated circuit that made the company a leader.

By 1971, Greene branched out on his own, founding CEO of Technology Development (TDC). By 1985, TDC was traded publicly, had more than 300 employees, and was recognized by Black Enterprise as one of the top 100 businesses. After an equity interest in TDC was sold, Greene launched ZeroOne Systems, Inc, developing large-scale scientific computer systems for the government. In two years, ZeroOne reached $15 million in annual revenue.

Greene also became an advocate for diversity in the field, becoming a co-founder of NewVista Capital, a firm which funded over 26 start-up information technology companies founded and headed by people of color and women. He was also president of the GO-Positive educational foundation, which offers leadership programs with “core positive values” for high school and college students. He is the author of “Leadership in the NOW: Power and Endurance” and “Leadership in the NOW: Success Guide.”

Black History Month Spotlight: Felecia Hatcher

The Collision Point

The future of diversity in the tech industry proved particularly bright this past week at the second annual Black Tech Week conference held in Miami. Tech leaders and innovators from across the country came to share and collaborate at this landmark event, while providing serious inspiration for South Florida’s own budding talents. And this is all thanks to Black Tech Week co-founder and Jamaican-born entrepreneur, Felecia Hatcher, who with her husband and business partner Derick Pearson founded the event to jumpstart more diverse talent in the industry. Hatcher herself is a lauded tech advocate as the founder of educational non-profit Code Fever, a tech training program targeting underserved minority students between the ages of 13 to 21 in South Florida. For her vital contribution to the industry, the White House awarded her as a 2014 Champion of Change for STEM Access and Diversity.

Speaking with Hatcher at the Women in Innovation Brunch, closing off a week of events, the National Weekly about the conference’s success and its implications for the future.

Why did you and Derick decide to launch Black Tech Week?

There still a lot of work that needs to be done in term of engaging our community in the innovation economy. Black Tech Week for us is the solution to the problems that people keep complaining about – particularly the lack of [black] techies in some of the major tech companies across the globe. But nothing is pushed as a solution towards that, so that’s why we wanted to start Black Tech Week. The other part is Code Fever, which is our technical training component, and we wanted to bring the resources full circle with this conference.

Felecia Hatcher (at podium) at Black Tech Week
Felecia Hatcher (at podium) at Black Tech Week

What were your goals for this year’s event?

We wanted to duplicate and expand on what we did last year. And also expanding the foot print a little bit to include some other areas that are tech related, but people are not connecting the dots to when they hear about Black Tech Week, and trying to figure out they fit into all of that.

Why is diversity so important in the digital and technology industry?

It’s really important because that’s where diversity happens. True diversity allows us to have better innovation in our community and really lets us build things that solve problems. So when you have an eclectic array of people sitting at the table creating and making things, we build better products and we build better communities

There were so many fantastic events this week. For you, what was the major takeaway from this year’s event?

The major takeaway is just providing that collision point. People were coming together, they were enjoying the panels. But they really want to connect, to be able to network with each other. And make deals happen at the end of the day. From the former NFL players that we had come here. They’re former NFL players that are now techies and they wanted to connect with programmers to build out the applications they want and the technology they’re trying to do. We had rappers here that are looking to connect with people in order to increase what they’re doing in the social space. We had a very eclectic group of people here, and the collision points were what was most important, and the biggest takeaway for me.

What was your favorite moment from this year’s conference?

There were so many!  But I would say it was seeing all the young people that came out here at Black Tech Week. There were a whole bus-full of students from Florida Memorial. Miami-Dade has students that came in to Florida International University, which has been a great partner for us. We had innovators from all over the place, and it was great that our young talent could be exposed to all the possibilities these leaders represent.

PHOTO captions:

Felecia Hatcher (far right) seeking with panelists Dawn Dickson of Venture.IO, T. Bernie of COCOCHIC, LLC, Barbara Jacques of JACQ’s Organics, and Ebony Pope of Leadership Development Associate Village Capital) at the Women in Innovation Brunch last Saturday.

“Protect Them” Symposium to create awareness against child sexual abuse

Caribbean-American leaders will gather this Saturday for the first ever “Protect Them” symposium seeking to combat child sex abuse here and in the Caribbean.

Starting at 11 am at the Church of God New Life Worship Center in Miramar, the event includes panelists Miramar Police Chief Dexter Williams and Michelle Hague from the Children’s Services Council. 

“PROTECT THEM” serves to rally South Florida’s diverse populations around an issue that affects all communities. Participants will learn the facts about child abuse, current trends, hear from victims, and participate in visioning activities that will be formulated into a strategic plan for prevention and subsequent eradication of this worldwide epidemic. 

The symposium is part of the Nuh Go Deh Diaspora campaign.

On Saturday April 23, 2016, The “Protect Them” Gala will be held at the luxurious Carolina Golf Club in Margate, to conclude National Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Month.

“As an offshoot of the ‘Nuh Guh Deh’ Campaign launched by Eve for Life, a nongovernmental organization, in October 2014; this gala is intended to bring awareness to the issue of child sexual abuse; prevalence and prevention. Through this event, we are reaching the young, the old, males, females, Americans and members of the Diaspora, because child sexual abuse transcends, age, gender, race and nationality.” said Lavern Deer, Diaspora Nuh Guh Deh Taskforce Chair and Jamaica International Female Football Development Inc. (JIFFD), CEO.

 

Protect your sight with this little known nutrient

There’s an existing nutrient that is incredibly important to your eye health. However, odds are you’ve probably never heard of it.

The nutrient is called zeaxanthin (pronounced Zee-ah-zan-thun). The antioxidant, along with lutein, is found in the back of the eye as a component of the macular pigment. Light enters through the front of the eye, or pupil, and projects onto the retina, a light-sensitive wall of cells at the back of the eye. The retina has millions of photoreceptor cells known as rods and cones, which are responsible for central and peripheral vision.

The macula, located in the center of the retina, is responsible for discerning color and fine detail. This area mostly includes cones. The cones in the fovea are smaller and more densely packed. They are not obscured by a layer of nerve cells or blood vessels. This accounts for the sharp vision associated with them. This is where zeaxanthin is deposited by the body in the highest concentrations.

Zeaxanthin and lutein are antioxidants that protect against light-induced oxidative stress, functioning like “internal sunglasses” to protect the photoreceptors and provide visual performance benefits. In nature, lutein and zeaxanthin appear to absorb excess light energy to prevent damage to plants from too much sunlight, especially from high-energy light rays called blue light.

Increasing zeaxanthin intake helps maintain visual performance over the long term.

Certain benefits to ensuring an optimal supply of zeaxanthin to one’s diet includes:

* Enhanced visual acuity — improved vision in fine detail situations like needlepoint or reading in low light situations.

* Reduced glare recovery time — faster recovery from temporary “blindness” caused by high intensity lighting, such as automobile or stadium lights.

* Improved contrast sensitivity — ability to discern objects from their background, e.g., seeing a white golf ball or baseball clearly against a light blue sky.

* Diminished light sensitivity and visual discomfort — less visual discomfort in sunlight or when exposed to bright light.

* Increased visual processing speed — seeing an object more clearly, enabling improved processing speed and reaction time.

There are more than 600 carotenoids in nature. Fifty are found in the food chain. About 12 are measured in the human bloodstream. Lutein and zeaxanthin are the only two naturally occurring carotenoids found in the macula. The body does not make zeaxanthin or lutein. Although zeaxanthin is found in foods, like paprika and goji berries, available data indicates the foods containing these nutrients are not abundantly consumed by the average American.

A study published in American Journal of Epidemiology, found higher levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in the diet are associated with a lower incidence of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). AMD destroys central vision and is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over the age of 55. There is no current cure for AMD and the effects are irreversible.

While there are certain non-modifiable risk factors, there are also risk factors than can be modified. Quitting smoking, incorporating a healthy diet and having a healthy body mass index are ways to reduce the risk. Incorporating a supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin, like EyePromise, can also help protect as well as preserve vision.

Brandpointcontent.com

Caribbean talents to hit the stage at LPAC’s Grand Opening

Trinidadian calypsonian David Rudder

David Rudder, Alison Hinds, Third World & More for Lauderhill Performing Arts Center Grand Opening

A lineup of top-tier Caribbean talent is expected to deliver high-energy performances in what promises to be an electrifying night in the Grand Opening Signature Series of events for the newly opened Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC).
The Caribbean segment, dubbed “Musical Showcase,” is slated for Saturday, March 5 at 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill and will feature live performances by Trinidad’s David Rudder, Barbados’ Alison Hinds, Jamaica’s Third World, as well as South Florida’s Eugene Grey and the Pantastik Steel Band.

Production consultant Sidney Roberts of Jamaican Awareness, Inc. is excited about this event and is grateful to the city for acknowledging its significant Caribbean population with a special night. He said, “This production is highly suited for the community and we really give thanks to the City of Lauderhill for putting on this event, which reflects a strong bond with the Caribbean community.”

Roberts added that “The artists involved have exemplified themselves over the years by the accolades that have been showered on them and the artistry that they bring to this community.”
Soca queen, Alison Hinds is expected to be in rare form, pulling from an extensive cache of old favorites such as “Faluma,” “Roll It Gyal,” and “Iron Bazodee” to more recent hits like “Parade,” which is getting wide acclaim. Hinds is known to rule the stage with her catchy tunes and crowd-pleasing performances that she has perfected over the years.
From his cult classics “High Mas” and “Hammer” to more recent releases such as “Wrong,” soca fans are known to “give praise” and say “amen” to what living legend David Rudder brings to the stage. The calypso and soca singer/songwriter still creates music that can reach people, proven by his ability to stay relevant decades after first bursting on to the scene.

Reggae ambassadors Third World will no doubt draw from their extensive repertoire with hits like “Satta Massagana” dating some four decades back to their debut album, and a string of other popular songs including “96 Degrees,” “Now That We’ve Found Love,” “Sense of Purpose” and of course, “Reggae Ambassador.” With such high-caliber hits under their belt and their musical diversity, Third World is expected to deliver an excellent show fans will enjoy.
Rounding out the set is world-class guitarist Eugene Grey with his eclectic mix of jazz, reggae and classical music, as well as Pantastik Steel Band orchestra.

“This is a must-see event for all who treasure quality music in all its genres. And it is a very good reflection of the cultures of the Caribbean in their many forms,” Roberts added.

Talking Immigration Rights with Edwidge Danticat

Edwidge Dandicat

Award-winning author speaks about her critique of the immigration system

The heated debate about immigration rights takes a decidedly literary (but all too genuine roots), as esteemed Haitian-born author Edwidge Danticat heads to Miami to talk family, grief and U.S. immigration politics at the upcoming “Big Read” session, scheduled for March 31, starting 6:30 p.m. at the Little Haiti Cultural Center.

The author will speak in conversation with Americans for Immigrant Justice’s Executive Director, Cheryl Little, on immigrant rights. Danticat has long written about the real physical and emotional plight of immigrants living in the U.S., perhaps most poignantly in her family memoir “Brother, I’m Dying,” which tells the true story of the author’s Mira, and his brother, Joseph. When Mira decides to immigrate to the United States, her Uncle Joseph—a community leader and pastor—chooses to remain in Haiti with his congregation. Edwidge, only two years old at the time of her father’s departure, is left in the care of her Uncle Joseph and his wife, Tante Denise. Joseph and Edwidge develop a close relationship over the next several years, even after she joins her family in the U.S.

Now grown and living in Miami, Edwidge faced the impending death of her father and the birth of her first child. Meanwhile, as political unrest in Port-au-Prince grow due to government and gang disputes, Edwidge fears for the safety of her Uncle Joseph and his family. Fleeing for their lives, Uncle Joseph and his son Maxo seek safety in America and come face to face with the complications of the U.S. immigration system. Over the next 72 hours, Danticat’s world is forever changed as her father’s condition worsens and her uncle’s whereabouts are unknown. Told through Danticat’s singular voice, these events set the stage for a powerful tale of loss and remembrance.

Attorney Cheryl Little worked closely with Danticat on her uncle’s immigration case, and will speak in detail about how many of these same policy issues are affecting immigrants today.

1...1,4751,4761,477...1,544Page 1,476 of 1,544