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Belize gets down to Business

Beltraide Representative Hero Balani, OESBD Economic Development Specialist Paola Isaac Baraya and Belizean Minister of International Trade Erwin Contreras.

Minister Contreras talks trade opportunities with SoFla entrepreneurs

Belize was at the top of the business agenda this week, as Belizean Minister of International Trade Erwin Contreras stopped by at the Lauderdale Lakes Educational and Cultural Center for the “Doing Business in Belize” workshop.

During a special meet and greet session with workshop attendees, the Minister outlined the nation’s many commercial and trading opportunities in renewable energy, agro-processing, tourism, and food and beverage production and packaging. The Minister also encouraged participants to attend the upcoming trade mission, hosted by the Miramar based Belize American Chamber of Commerce of Florida.

The trade workshop, hosted by the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD), is part of a year-long series highlighting trading opportunities with many key partners of South Florida’s economy. Representative Hero Balani from the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (Beltraide) was on hand to update participants on the latest initiatives. He highlighted the country’s unique and respected reputation in the rapidly expanding fair trade and eco-label market. A spotlight was also shone on the country’s competitive investment incentives. This includes an export processing zone, offering multiple tax exemptions, including full import and export duty exemptions. The Fiscal Incentives Program also encourages investments in Belize through duty exemptions and tax holidays, providing both current and new investors with the legal and fiscal framework to stimulate productive economic activities.

Photo Caption: (L-R) Beltraide Representative Hero Balani, OESBD Economic Development Specialist Paola Isaac Baraya and Belizean Minister of International Trade Erwin Contreras.

GCA celebrates Grenada’s independence

Grenadian Med students Alisha Felix (left) and R Ciarah St. Paul (right) pose with Grenada Deputy Consul General Yolande Y. Smith

Grenada Cultural Association of South Florida (GCA) presented an exuberant blast of Grenada’s Carnival Mas at GCA’s 26th Dinner-Dance and Church Service honoring 42nd Year of Grenada’s Independence.

Over 200 guests from across the Caribbean sampled tasty Grenadians favorites such as fry bakes, fry salt fish, fry breadfruit, coo-coo, callaloo dip, coconut buns and current rolls for cocktail at the Sheraton-Fort Lauderdale Airport Hilton, on February 6, 2016.

The evening program was MC by Grenada’s former Honorary Consul General in Miami Richard Nixon under the leadership of GCA President Elizabeth Allick. Keynote speaker General Secretary of Grenada Community Development Agency (GRENCODA) Judy Ellen Williams outlined the agency’s 30 years of community outreach and mentorship, providing support in personal finances, education, legal aid, business development, and institutional strengthening for families, especially children and young mothers through communities in Grenada, Carriacou and Pettie Martinique. Williams thanked the GCA for their dedicated support with donations of essential school supplies to Grenada’s promising students.

Grenada’s Historic Mas was a hit, as most guests were up on their feet dancing as the Moco Jumbie, Shortknee, Jab Jab and Vieux Corps entered in live colorful costumes and pulsating Caribbean music. Other highlights includes Dunblare Scholarship recipient, 18-year-old Danielle Coard, for her essay about “Pros and Cons of Electronic Media and its Effects on Grenadian Youth.” The Founders Scholarship was awarded to Tamicka Augustine. Mr. Leonard “LEO” Augustine received the GCA 2016 Community Service Award. and other service awards were given to many members of GCA.

GCA 2016-2018 Executive Members were also presented – President Elizabeth Allick; Vice President Gerald James; Secretary Mona Hood-Julien; Treasurer Stephanie Vincent; Assistant Tresuarer/Secretary Danielle Marecheau; Parliamentarian Arthur Mareaheau; Public Relations Arlene White; Liaison Officers Christopher Hinds, Frank James and Joseph Alexander; Senior Coordinator Sonia Marryshow-Duncan; Youth Coordinator Earl Allick; Advisors Gordon Telesford, Eulette Edwards and Kenneth Nedd.

5 tips to protect your identity and celebrate refund season

The holidays may be over, but refund season is just beginning, and there’s a lot to celebrate. This tax season, while consumers are eagerly awaiting their refund, tax preparation companies, tax officials and the IRS are working together to combat one of the fastest growing threats for tax season 2016 — tax identity fraud.

Based on IRS data, nearly 3 million people have been victims of tax identity theft since 2010. Every year, criminals use increasingly advanced tactics — particularly geared toward taxpayers filing online — to steal taxpayers’ personal information, file fraudulent tax returns in their names and steal their refunds. After fraud occurs, it can take months and multiple steps by the victim to access a stolen refund and regain an identity with the IRS.

Protect your identity — and your refund — with these five tax tips from H&R Block:

1. File early and be cautious. Filing your taxes early will allow you to claim your refund before a criminal can. Before you file, protect your personal information by installing a security software with anti-virus and firewall protections.

2. Keep your paper records safe. Shred records you are no longer using and keep your social security card and any sensitive documents under lock and key.

3. Do not respond to individuals posing as a tax agency. The IRS does not demand immediate payment without sending a bill in the mail first. If you receive a phone call or an email with an external link, do not click on the link or share personal or financial information unless you personally know the person on the other end.

4. Change your password. The 2015 tax season saw a significant increase of tax fraud in the do-it-yourself (DIY) space. When using at-home tax software, such as H&R Block’s DIY products, create a strong password with capitalization, numbers, and symbols or avoid the risk by visiting a tax preparer.

5. Use tax identity protection services. Visit the IRS website to learn more about how to protect your identity. Additionally, H&R Block’s Tax Identity Shield provides clients with tools to reduce the risk of tax identity theft and resolution services, if a client becomes a victim of tax identity theft.

This tax season, take away the stress and put the “fun” back in “refund” by filing early. Plus, this year, you’ll have a chance to boost your refund — as an extra incentive, H&R Block is celebrating refund season by awarding $1,000 a day to 1,000 people. The first drawing for this limited time offer is Jan. 16. Visit hrblock.com/grand for rules and an alternate method of entry. Enter early to protect your refund and for more chances to win.

Go vegan, Caribbean style

Medical experts say a vegan diet can reduce risk of heart disease and diabetes. But who wants to give up their favorite Caribbean goodies? Find the best of both worlds with these classic recipes.

Vegan Patties

Vegan Chef Shernell Cooke has the perfect vegan version of this favorite snack. A touch of jerk spice makes this a guilty-free bite.

Ingredients:

Pastry

3 cups of flour

1 1/2 cups of equal parts mixed vegan margarine and vegan shortening, PLUS 2 heaping ice cold tbsps.

1 teaspoon turmeric

2 teaspoons curry powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup ice-cold water PLUS 1 tablespoon if needed for dough

Filling

1 tablespoon oil to sauté

1 medium onion minced finely

3 green onions minced finely

3 cloves garlic minced finely

1 1/2 cup tvp mince hydrated or frozen mince or seitan mince

2 tablespoon Jerk seasoning

1/2 Scotch Bonnet minced finely, optional

1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce

1 heaping teaspoon curry powder

Pinch of allspice and black pepper

1 tablespoon of ketchup or tomato sauce

2 teaspoons fresh thyme

3 tablespoon water

1 heaping tablespoon fine to medium breadcrumb

2 tablespoons soy cream to brush tops of pastry

For dough, rub in the fat to the flour so it resembles medium breadcrumbs and add turmeric, curry and salt. Slowly add water to form two balls, but don’t overwork. For filling, heat oil on stove and add green onion, onion garlic, protein mince and seasonings. Add all other ingredients and cook for 5 minutes on medium heat. Adjust for salt and heat. Put aside to cool. Then cut pastry into 6 pieces and roll to 5 inch circles. Fill with mixture and fold, sealing with fork. Bake for 25 minutes at 200 C/400 F. Brush with soy creamer 15 minutes after going into the oven.

Caribbeanvegan.wordpress.org

Banana Milk

Felix Padilla of SimplyTriniCooking.com swears by the morning booster, whether on its own or mixed in with your favorite breakfast cereal.

Ingredients:

3 cups coconut water, cane juice or coconut milk

4 ripe bananas

8 pitted dates soaked in 1 cup of water (overnight)

Put peeling bananas, dates and liquid in blender and blend until smooth. To add flavor, use water from soaked dates.

Simplytrinicooking.com

Corn Soup

Angela from CookLikeAJamaican.com loves this healthy version of a classic Saturday soup, extra delectable thanks to sweet corn.

Ingredients

1 tbsp. cooking oil

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 stalk celery, diced

10 cups water

1/2 cup coconut milk

3 large vegetable bouillon cubes

1 cup dry yellow split peas

3 cups Jamaican pumpkin cubed

2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated

3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 2 tsp dried)

3 Red medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

4 cobs fresh corn (or 4 cups frozen kernels)

3 carrots, diced

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper

1/2 tsp Black Pepper

1 tsp Salt, or to taste

1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional)

Sauté onion, garlic and celery in cooking oil until onion is transparent. Add water, coconut milk, bouillon, split peas and 2 cups of pumpkin to pot and bring to a boil. Lower heat and cook until split peas are soft. Meanwhile, cut 2 cobs of corn into 1/2-inch “wheels” and shave kernels off remaining 2 cobs; set aside. Once split peas are soft, use hand blender to puree broth until smooth. Add the remaining pumpkin, potatoes, carrots, corn, ginger and thyme and simmer on medium for about 20 minutes, or until carrots and potatoes are soft. Stir in the remaining seasonings. If using, place the scotch bonnet pepper on top. Simmer soup for about 5 to 10 more minutes to blend flavors. Discard scotch bonnet pepper.

cooklikeajamaican.com

“Empowered” book talk at AARLCC featuring Rasheda Jackson

African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

On February 20, 2016 from 2 to 6PM, author Rasheda Jackson will discuss her book, Empowered by His Purpose, at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC).

The author states that, “Life today makes it nearly impossible to realize your true purpose and plan for your life. However, when you take a biblical perspective toward life, having been redeemed by God, you begin to see your purpose emerge before your eyes.”

Pastor Rasheda Jackson knows firsthand about the search for one’s purpose in God, chronicling her journey through her advice book, Empowered by His Purpose; When All Things Work Together for Your Good. Rasheda believes everyone is given the potential to dream and achieve more in God than by themselves, empowered by a positivity over negativity approach. She asserts that the trials and obstacles you experience can work together for good, recalling her own testimony as proof of this belief. From never knowing her father to being molested as a child to becoming a young, single mother, Rasheda has seen those challenges be used to reveal her purpose and God’s love for her.

The author is an independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics, a motivational speaker, mentor and co-owner of Virtuous Management. She also co-pastors a church in Miramar, FL.

TalkUp: Should the Oscars be boycotted?

8 ways to tackle cold and flu season

Just how likely are you to come down with a cold or the flu this season? The U.S. routinely sees epidemic levels of the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and 36 states had already reported widespread activity by the end of last December. Each year, on average, 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population gets the flu, according to the CDC Foundation, costing an estimated $10.4 billion a year in direct medical expenses and an additional $16.3 billion in lost earnings.

But take heart — a regular case of flu usually resolves itself in three to seven days, though symptoms like a cough and fatigue may linger longer.

Here are eight ways that make prioritizing winter wellness easier, and may help avoid colds and the flu this season (or to feel better if you’re already in the throes):

1. Stay warm, well and rested: If you’re not feeling your best and you have a cold, make rest a priority. Keep NyQuil Severe at an arm’s reach so you can calm your cough and get the sleep you need.

2. Prepare your body for air travel: Many people travel over the winter holidays but flying can be uncomfortable for some when sick. The air pressure from the plane may affect your cold symptoms so don’t forget to pack a decongestant or cold medication, like DayQuil Severe or NyQuil Severe, in your suitcase.

3. Drink more water than you think you need: Drinking multiple glasses of water per day may help prevent viruses and bacteria from latching on to your body once you’re exposed to them. Mucus can help block germs out of your body. If you don’t hydrate often, the mucus dries up and doesn’t work as it should.

4. Prevent scaly, dry hands: It’s important to wash your hands to kill germs, but sometimes it takes a toll on delicate skin. Try wipe-off, soap-free cleansers and alcohol-free hand sanitizers—they tend to be less drying than traditional soap and water.

5. Get (and keep) moving: Staying active is a great way to avoid the cold and flu. Try fun physical activities like ice skating or go for a brisk walk. Regular exercise offers multiple benefits, like boosting your immune system, managing weight and taking care of your body.

6. Disinfect everything: It’s imperative that women clean makeup tools with cleaner, especially their lipsticks or lip balm. Disinfect your cell phones with a sanitizing wipe—remember that you’re constantly touching it and putting it to your face.

7. Use tissues when you sneeze or cough: Spare your loved ones from catching your germs. Be sure to equip each room in the house with a box of tissues.

8. Say no to stress. Stress can influence the symptoms of cold, cough and flu by interfering with how the immune system functions. To keep your immune system strong, make sure to get plenty of rest and sleep all the time, not just when you’re sick.

By taking precautions against colds and the flu, and taking care of yourself with the best remedies available, you have a better chance at navigating this season in comfort.

For more information about Vicks products, visit vicks.com/en-us/shop-products.

OAS to send observer team to Jamaica

OAS to observe parliamentary general elections

The Organization of American States (OAS) says it will deploy an Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) to the February 25 general elections in Jamaica.

The OAS said on Friday that the Mission will be headed by Janet Bostwick, former attorney general and minister of foreign affairs of the Bahamas, and will comprise by 21 observers from 17 countries.

OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, and Jamaica’s Permanent Representative to the OAS, Ralph Samuel Thomas, signed the agreement at OAS headquarters on Thursday.

The OAS leader highlighted the organization’s commitment to “accompanying Jamaica in this important democratic exercise.”

The OAS said it will be the third EOM dispatched to Jamaica.

During its visit to Jamaica, the OAS said the Mission will “implement methodologies to observe political financing, gender equity, and electoral organization and technology, among other issues”.

More than 150 candidates are expected to contest the 63-seats at stake in the elections, but political observers say the fight is a straight one between the ruling People’s National party (PNP) and the main opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) that have both nominated candidates for all the constituencies.

In the last general election the PNP won 42 of the 63 seats with the remainder going to the JLP.

Broward opens for business

New conference seeking to boost small business in the community

Whether setting up a new restaurant, a real estate agency or law practice, starting a small business in our community can become a tricky proposition. How much funding and resources do you need to start up? What laws and regulations do you need to look out for? And how can you get your name out there in such a competitive market?

Broward County’s Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) plans to start local entrepreneurs on the right foot with the upcoming, inaugural Capacity Building Conference – set for Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5, 2016 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center.

Themed “Strategic Pathways to Growth,” this free two-day event seeks to help businesses chart a course to success by strengthening their core capacities in general business operations through insightful dialogue and key connections. Scheduled panels include key topics for any entrepreneur starting out or seeking to expand their operations. Get help navigating the mires of marketing through social media at the “Marketing Strategies” panel, or learn what insurance plans you need (and don’t) within your industry at the “Safety & Loss Control” discussion. The keynote address will also be delivered by Florida Secretary of Commerce and President of Enterprise Florida, Bill Johnson.

On Saturday, the conference will also offer a Business Financing Clinic, where entrepreneurs can get their business strategies accessed. There will also be the county’s signature “Broward is Buying” expo, where local entrepreneurs can both share their range of services, all while exploring contracting opportunities with the county.

This event is perfect for Broward County vendors. Sponsor and exhibitor opportunities are still available for this much-anticipated event. To find out more about this conference, and how you can get your business registered, visit CapacityBuilding.Broward.org.

Marion Hall (FKA Lady Saw) to perform in Lauderhill for Valentine’s Day

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

U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch stops by Miami today on her national “community policing tour,” meeting with peace ambassadors in Overtown to spotlight improved relations between police and the public following years of tension. Her visit comes as the Justice department is finalizing a settlement on their civil rights case with the Miami police department, involving 33 police shootings between 2008 and 2011.

The 5 FIFA presidential candidates are in Miami today to meet with voters from the CONCACAF region, as the seek support in the race for the top position in soccer’s governing body. Though CONCACAF has been plagued with corruption charges, the federation’s 35 votes from the Caribbean, North and Central America make them a valuable contingent in the campaign.

Reggae fans can celebrate St. Valentine’s day in style this Sunday at the One Love in the Park Concert, starting 6 p.m. at Vincent Torres Park in Lauderdale Lakes. This romantic affair stars Marion Hall (FKA Lady Saw), rocksteady legend Leroy Sibbles, and crooning quartet L.U.S.T. featuring Lukie D, Thriller U, Singing Melody and Tony Curtis.

In sports, it was a soccer feast this week at the CASA Super league tournament in Lauderhill. Albion Plantation defeated Lauderhill juniors 3 to 1, while Island Strikers beat Melrose 2 to 1. CASA will also be hosting a major showdown next Monday, starting 7:30 pm at the Lockhart Stadium, as the CASA all-stars go against NASL team, the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers.

What’s trending:

The cricket Caribbean Premiere League is set to make its U.S. premiere this year, following announced plans to stage 6 league games stateside. Though dates have not been officially confirmed, the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill has been marked as a venue for some, if not all, of the games.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Sunny in Broward County with a high of 76 and a low of 51. For Miami-Dade, sunny with a high of 76 and a low of 52.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. And remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean outlet.

US Attorney General Loretta Lynch visits South Florida

Lynch to discuss ways of building trust and cooperation between law enforcement and local citizens

U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch is on a visit to Miami on her national “community policing tour,” meeting with peace ambassadors in Overtown to spotlight improved relations between police and the public following years of tension.

Her visit comes as the Justice department is finalizing a settlement on their civil rights case with the Miami police department, involving 33 police shootings between 2008 and 2011.

Lynch on Thursday recognized the Doral Police Department for training officers to have a better community relationship. Miami U.S. Attorney Wifredo Ferrer says that includes changing officer mentality from a warrior to more of a guardian.

 On Friday, Lynch will host a youth town hall at a Miami high school and hold a community policing discussion.

Later Lynch will visit Portland, Oregon; Indianapolis; Fayetteville, North Carolina; Phoenix and Los Angeles.

FIFA presidential contenders head to Miami to court CONCACAF votes

Candidates to presentations to CONCACAF officials

The five FIFA presidential candidates have arrived in Miami to meet with voters from the CONCACAF region, as they seek support in the race for the top position in soccer’s governing body.

Though CONCACAF has been plagued with corruption charges, the federation’s 35 votes from the Caribbean, North and Central America make them a valuable contingent in the campaign.

UEFA official Gianni Infantino and Asian chief Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa were both expected to be among the FIFA Presidential contenders giving presentations to members from CONCACAF, which governs football in North America, Central America and the Caribbean.

Infantino, a key ally of banned former presidential hopeful Michel Platini, and Sheikh Salman, the influential head of the Asian Football Confederation are battling for the right to replace ousted former FIFA chief Sepp Blatter at elections later this month.

Also in the running are Jordan’s Prince Ali bin al Hussein, South Africa’s Tokyo Sexwale and outsider Jerome Champagne.

All five candidates were expected to make presentations to CONCACAF officials at a hotel in Miami from Thursday to Friday.

LIAT issues Zika travel advisory

Obliges passengers booked for Zika-affected destinations

Regional carrier LIAT, says adjustments will be made for customers with reservations booked on or before February 10, who are concerned about travelling to destinations affected by Zika Virus .

In a release on Thursday, LIAT said customers may change the dates of travel to the same destination at no charge.

“You may change the destination without incurring a change fee. However, if the fare to the new destination is higher than the current reservation, you will be required to pay the difference in fare” the release stated.

The airline also said the booking can be cancelled entirely and LIAT will offer a full credit and waive the cancellation fee.

The credit will be valid for a year from date of cancellation.

The airline says customers will be able to make these changes up to March 14 .
However, changes made to bookings made after February 10 will incur the normal change and cancellation fees according to the fare rules.

The LIAT destinations listed in the advisory are Barbados, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St Martin and United States Virgin Islands.

 

West Indies players threaten to boycott WICB

Sir Andy Roberts questions Sammy’s Test coaching appointment
Darren Sammy

Contract crisis threatens West Indies on eve of World Twenty20

The saga between the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and selected players for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set for March 8 in India, continues. Threatening to boycott from the games, the players are asking the board to meet their demands for improved wages.

In a letter to the WICB, Twenty20 captain Darren Sammy said that the selected 15-man squad were unhappy about their contracted compensation for participating in the tournament, which shows a dramatic reduction when compared to previous World Cups. The players are requesting that the wages be increased to match the margins of past tournaments.

“For instance, in the 2012 T20 World Cup the lowest paid player was guaranteed US$57,937. Thehighest was guaranteed US$137,045,” said Sammy in the letter to the board. “To now be offered just US$6,900 per match across the board irrespective of experience is totally unacceptable. Players are being asked to start providing services from nearly four weeks ahead of the World Cup and be guaranteed just US$27,600 if they play all the guaranteed matches (which) is a staggering reduction. We are looking, even on 2012 figures, (at) reductions of between 50-80 percent.”

WICB CEO Michael Muirhead, however, defended the contract, arguing that the “terms on offer were negotiated and agreed between WICB and WIPA with the assistance of representatives from the ICC and FICA during a mediation process last year, and all parties agreed that they were fair and equitable and acceptable to be offered to the members WI team selected for the relevant ICC Event.”

Sammy also rejected that the contract negotiated between the WICB and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA), as “WIPA became conflicted during its negotiations with you and compromised itself.”

Muirhead says the players have until this Sunday to accept the terms of the offer. Meanwhile, Sammy has requested an urgent meeting before Sunday’s deadline. Though the West Indies has been struggling in the test match format, they are a frontrunner in Twenty20 cricket, and is currently ranked second in the world.

Page 2: February 11, 2016

Hazel Ambrister, Dorothy Orr and Ernestine Price pose for a picture after receiving the Trailblazer Award at the recently held Black History Month Gala in Lauderhill.
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Black History Month Spotlight: John Henry Thompson

Jamaican-American computer programmer John Henry Thompson helped make today’s technology beautiful, bridging the gap between art and technology. As a graduate of both MIT and the Art Student League of New York, Thompson was the inventor of the Lingo programming language used in Adobe Director, which helps render visuals in computer programs.

Thompson also used Lingo in one of his better-known computer inventions, Macromedia™ (Now Adobe) Director, which is able to incorporate different graphic formats (such as BMP, AVI, JPEG, QuickTime, PNG, RealVideo and vector graphics) to create multi-media content and applications, thus combining computer programming language with visual art. Lingo is now used with many programs that have interactive simulations with graphics, animation, sound, and video. It has also been used to create flash and shockwave programs that now are prevalent in video games, web design, animation, and graphics.

Thompson has been dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation of tech innovators as a former professor at New York University’s graduate Interactive Telecommunications Program (ITP), and as instructor at Drexel University.

The son of Jamaican parents who traveled from the UK to New York searching for a better life for their children, Thompson has also made great strides in giving back to the country of his parents’ birth. Thompson returned to Jamaica in 2012, where he also spent many years of his childhood, to lead a series of mobile apps development workshops under the Digital Jam 2.0 project. His vision for the program, said Thompson in a statement, was to “export an innovative software development strategy to enable Jamaican youth to prosper in the global internet knowledge economy.” For his innovations in the tech industry, as well as his dedication to mentorship, Thompson was awarded the Institute of Jamaica’s 2012 Musgrave award for Science.

Black History Month Spotlight: Mary Spio

From designing orbital tracks for NASA space rockets, to expanding Virtual Reality, Ghanaian-American engineer Mary Spio stands at the cutting each of multiple tech frontiers. Her patented technologies are used to digital release feature films over satellite, becoming a groundbreaking advance for the media industry. Now Spio has turned her talents to developing Virtual Reality as the founder of CEEK VR, expanding VR applications by developing immersive social platforms. Ahead of her presentation at the upcoming Black Tech Week (February 15 – February 19) in Miami, the National Weekly spoke with Spio about her past inspirations and future plans.

How did you come up with the concept for your company CEEK VR?

Virtual Reality has always been something I’ve been passionate about, and I felt strongly that there was a need for building VR applications outside of gaming. It’s a chance to align my passions with my particular expertise.

How did you get started in the tech industry? Did you have any mentors? 

I didn’t get my first mentor until I went to Syracuse University after serving in the Air Force. I felt like I didn’t fit in, because I was an older student, working three jobs and wasn’t as exposed as the others to programming. I was so discouraged that I was going to change my major, when I met Engineer Department Dean Lori Hunter. She was an engineer and an African-American woman, and that was the first time I met someone in the field who look like me. When she heard how I felt she started a program with 15 of us that still there today, providing support for students from financially challenged background. With her help I ended up graduating number one in my class. It just goes to show that with the right support, we were able to not just survive, but excel.

What has been your most memorable project so far in your career?

Definitely coming up with the technology I got a patent for. Being a part of the annals of global history feels like an out-of-body experience. Knowing you did something that changed the entire industry really gives you the confidence to do other things.

What would you recommend to black students, particularly immigrants, interested in getting involved in the tech industry?

Don’t let anybody tell you you’re less because you sound different. Trust your instinct. I was fortunate that my parents trusted my judgement and supported me. I understand the pressure in immigrant families to do something safe and traditional. But I truly believe that life is whatever we imagine it to be. When I was writing my book, “It’s Not Rocket Science – 7 Game-Changing Traits for Achieving Uncommon Success,” I wanted to get to the foundation to what it takes to have uncommon kind of greatness. And the biggest takeaway is to have faith in yourself. You also have to understand that technology isn’t about writing code. Technology is a tool. Whatever you do, think about how you can use technology. Whether you’re a nurse, a social worker or an architect, technology is in everything.

 

EDITORIAL: Jamaican politicians need micro-economic solutions to win the elections

As the election season begins this month in Jamaica, no question the economy remains paramount for voters – not so much the nation’s place in the global macro-economy of international trading, but micro-economic factors that affect everyday individuals and local businesses.

In many ways, the Jamaican economy in 2015 was both a tale of growth and of woe. The government recently received glowing reports from international sources for the nation’s economic gains in 2015.  American financial publication Bloomberg rated the Jamaican Stock Exchange (JSE) as the best performing exchange, based on the activity of registered companies. A close analysis of the JSE reveals several small and large companies have significantly boosted their capital inflows and their profitability by trading on the exchange.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) also lauded the government for executing the nation’s Funding Agreement, which the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) administration took on in 2012. This agreement includes severe conditions meant to reduce the nation’s massive national debt, but also severely impacted the population. The perennial devaluation of the Jamaican dollar escalated the price of consumer goods and services. While in the Diaspora, Jamaicans overseas have seen their pensions and investment dividends in Jamaica dwindle as the Jamaican dollar slides.

Minister of Finance Peter Phillips deserves praise for maintaining the difficult course to reduce the national debt. This has resulted in restored confidence in Jamaica from multinational funding agencies like the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the IMF. However, the benefits from this renewed confidence hasn’t begun to reach the pockets of the majority of Jamaicans. People still continue to pay more for goods and services, while wages and salaries are lower than their inescapable expense budgets. Unemployment also remains high, especially among young people

The need to control the national economy and debt, while ensuring the population attains an appropriate standard of living, has been the perennial predicament for Jamaican governments. Between 1980 and 1989 the Edward Seaga administration followed a route similar to the current administration’s approach. The Jamaica Labor Party (JLP) lost the 1989 elections, as many voters saw Seaga as out of touch with their financial needs – as he grappled with strengthening the national economy, voters sought for more spending power in their pockets.

Some political analysts believe the PNP could suffer a similar fate on February 25, since several Jamaicans are not benefiting personally from the national economic gains made over the past four tumultuous years. These analysts expect the JLP to use the hardship still being experienced by some voters to their advantage in the election.

Unlike Seaga, Portia Simpson Miller’s “Sista P” political persona helps maintain the public’s sense that her administration is deeply invested in their day-to-day economic strains – while Finance Minister Peter Phillips remains politically unencumbered to make the often difficult policy decisions.

Assuring the public about the PNP’s dedication to their earning needs, Simpson Miller has been travelling across Jamaica telling voters that better is coming after the bitter economic medicine applied by Phillips wears off.

Whether she succeeds or not will be resolved on February 25. Whichever party is elected, their leadership must be prepared to develop pragmatic plans targeting the monetary security of the Jamaican people, who have been waiting with impressive patience for years. With an improved national economy, the strengthening of Jamaican businesses through a strong stock exchange, and the international community’s renewed confidence in the country, it’s time to focus on the general welfare of the Jamaican people. The party that can realistically assure voters of this focus deserves to be elected come February 25.

VP/Greensleeves revamps 1970’s Reggae & Dub Titles

Throughout the month of February, VP/Greensleeves will honor reggae icons Glen Brown, Augustus Pablo and Horace Andy by revamping some of their major hits from the 1970s era. Each collection will feature a crisp remastered sound and will be available on all formats – including vinyl, CD and digital platforms.

Greensleeves will reissue Brown’s albums “Boat to Progress”, “Check the Winner” and “Dubble Attack” on February 12, a 14-track set, that will showcase Brown’s musical and production talents, as well as feature a variety of all-star vocalists.

Greensleeves will also reissue Augustus Pablo’s 1979 classic album “Original Rockers”, which includes flashes of his dub inspiration on standouts like “Rocker’s Dub” and “Tubby’s “Dub Song.” Reggae all-stars including guitarist Earl Chinna Smith, bassists Robbie Shakespeare and Aston Barrett and select vocalists like Dillinger and Hugh Mundell are featured on this collection.

VP Records vintage imprint 17 North Parade will reissue Horace Andy’s 1977 album “In The Light” on the reggae singer’s birthday, February 19. The In The Light collection, which is rightly regarded as one of Andy’s strongest testaments, includes newly commissioned sleeve notes by Noel Hawks and exclusive photos in the packaging.

National Weekly February 11, 2016

IDB to hold annual meeting in the Bahamas

IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Meeting will discuss key development challenges facing Latin American and the Caribbean

The Inter-American Development Bank Group will hold its annual meeting in the Bahamas  on April 7-10. Economic and financial leaders from its 48 member countries will discuss key development challenges for Latin America and the Caribbean on issues ranging from the global economic slowdown, private sector investments, energy sector diversification, sustainable urban development, the potential of creative industries, and natural capital as a line of defense against climate change, among others.

Representatives of other development agencies, commercial banks, companies and civil society organizations will also attend the gathering. The event will mark the 57th annual meeting of the IDB Group’s Board of Governors, the Bank’s top decision-making body. Most Governors are ministers of finance or the economy, or central bank presidents.

The IDB Group is made up of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC) and the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF). All of the IDB’s private sector operations were recently consolidated into the IIC. The MIF provides donations and resources to foster innovative small-scale projects in the region.

During the event the IDB Group will release its annual macroeconomic assessment of the region’s outlook amidst a difficult global economic environment. A panel discussion of senior officials will discuss the report’s findings and look ahead to fiscal, monetary and other challenges.

The IIC’s new General Manager James P. Scriven will discuss how the Corporation expects to support private sector investments in the region.

The Annual Meeting will feature discussions about the future of cities in the region, given their potential as urban hubs of creativity and innovation, as well as their vulnerabilities to disasters and other challenges. The Government of the Bahamas will showcase its vision for Nassau’s urban sustainability and the Emerging Sustainable Cities. The Nassau program will help protect the city from natural disasters related to climate change, create job opportunities for local residents, and build more inclusive public spaces in Nassau.

Speakers for the various seminars on urbanism include Joan Clos, executive director of the UN Human Settlements Program. The potential of creative industries in cities will be discussed by creative economy expert Lala Dehenzelin, and the international recognized architect Aziza Chaoni.

Using the richness of the region’s natural capital, a panel of experts that include University of West Indies’ Leonard Nurse and Stanford University’s Mary Ruckelshaus will discuss innovative solutions to stabilize shorelines, avoid flooding and protect marine ecosystems.

Nomination Day sets off official election season in Jamaica

63 seats in parliament up for grabs

Despite concerns of violence, it was a Carnival atmosphere this past Nomination Day in Jamaica, as both parties submitted their candidates for the February 25 general elections. Miami resident Carlton Cooke, returning to vote in his South St. Andrew home constituency, was concerned for his safety following reports of violence associated with a Jamaica Labor Party in Montego Bay last Sunday. “But from all reports, all went well,” says Cooke.

This year, 152 candidates from the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) and the opposition Jamaican Labor Party (JLP) will contest 63 seats in parliament. In addition, 7 candidates were nominated from the National Democratic Party, 19 were put forward from smaller parties or as independent candidates.

After all the candidates were nominated, with each expressing confidence in winning in their respective constituencies, the serious business of translating this confidence into victory begins. The latest formal political poll released two weeks ago had the PNP leading the JLP by 4 percentage points. However, the consensus among PNP insiders is that the party will still secure leadership, winning anywhere from 37 to 44 seats.  JLP supporters are predicting at least 35 seats in a narrow victory to retake the reign of government lost to the PNP in the 2011 general elections.

With the nomination process over, Director of Elections Orette Fishers says his office will move full speed ahead finalizing preparations. Both electoral office workers and the nation’s security forces will vote on February 22, as their services are needed for February 25.

On Nomination Day, political leader struck a picture of confidence, claiming victory for their parties. Simpson Miller, who has been touting the economic achievements of her government since she announced the election date on January 31, is confident the PNP will be “returned to continue the people’s business.”  Referred to some Jamaicans fondly as “Momma P,” she jokingly told supporters and the media at her constituency office that she no longer regarded JLP leader Andrew Holness as her son as she did during the 2011 election campaign.

“If he was my child he would behave differently.” However she promised Holness “a whipping on election day.”

Holness, however, seem confident in his party’s chances, arguing that the PNP hasn’t done enough to ease the financial burdens of Jamaicans. Recently he announced a 10-point plan, including tax relief for people earning under J$1.5 million (US$12,400), to ease this burden. He said while some people focus on economics, he “practices practical-nomics.” He also noted that recent internal polls conducted by the JLP showed a swing towards the JLP.

Holness, whose wife Juliet was nominated as the JLP candidate in the East Rural St. Andrew constituency, referring to Simpson Miller promise to whip him at the polls, said “she can only whip her children.”

OAS defends descendants of Haiti in DR

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

Jamaica Diaspora Nuh Guh Deh Taskforce Chair and Jamaica  International Female  Football Development Inc. CEO, Lavern Deer has announced the “PROTECT THEM” gala to rally South Florida’s diverse populations around the issue of child sexual abuse prevalence and prevention in Jamaica. This event is scheduled for Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Month in April.

The family of Lavall Hall, a young mentally challenged City of Miami Gardens man killed by that city’s police last year, is demanding justice. Last week, Miami-Dade prosecutors announced there would be no charges.  At a recent press conference, accompanied by her attorneys and representatives of the NAACP, Hall’s mother tearfully pled for justice.  The family is requesting that the U.S. Department of Justice and FBI investigate the case.

Renowned Harvard Cowles professor of sociology Dr. Orlando Patterson, one of Jamaica’s and the Caribbean’s foremost sons, and literary icon, is scheduled to speak at Florida Atlantic University College of Business on Saturday, February 13th.  Dr. Patterson’s book, The Children of Sisyphus, based on the plight of the poor, and first published in 1982, has been long regarded as a Caribbean classic,

In Sports: Seeking to succeed Caymanian Jeffrey Webb as the president of the regional soccer organization, CONCACAF, 50-year-old Canadian business executive Victor Montagliani says its time the organization stop being so politically polarized. He said CONCACAF need to function as a unit rather than three independent parts coming together to form a whole.  Elections are scheduled for May 12.

WHAT’S TRENDING: 

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, a body of the Organization of American States, has asked the Dominican Republic to restore nationality to thousands of people of Haitian descent affected by a controversial decision that affects persons of Haitian descent, deprives them of nationality, and relegates them to the status of stateless persons.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 62 and a low of 43. For Miami-Dade, partly cloudy with a high of 65 and a low of 43.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. And remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean outlet.

Gear up for Expo Jamaica 2016

Representatives from Canadian company Dattani Wholesalers (left) speaks to Earle McEwan of Wynlee Group of Companies during a business meeting about Wynlee's array of locally made products at Expo Jamaica 2014.

Diaspora encouraged to explore nation’s expanding productions

The Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) is currently encouraging buyers from across the Diaspora to participate in the bigger and better Expo Jamaica 2016. The Caribbean’s largest trade exhibition will be held on April 14 to 17, at the National Arena and Indoor Sports Complex in Kingston, Jamaica

In its 43rd year, the Expo will feature over 300 exhibitors on display, with products and service from various sectors, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, fashion, furniture and packaging. The expo will also provide a platform for exporters and service providers to broker partnerships, market products and engage in one-on-one session with attendees in an effort to generate sales.

“Expo Jamaica provides the opportunity to promote a large number of Jamaican products and services in one area,” said JAMPRO president, Diane Edwards. “[Buyers] can see the innovative side of Jamaica and do business with these companies, all in the same location.”

Ensuring meaningful interaction between buyers and companies, the show will have two dedicated buyers’ days on April 14 and 15, where both local and international buyers will have complete access to an inventory of familiar Jamaica products, along with a vast array of new and innovative products and services.

The event remains a popular hotspot for cross-Diaspora trading and commerce. At the expo’s last showing, the event attracted over 475 buyers from 24 countries.

Is the Jamaican Dollar Undervalued?

Why Burger King may tell more about the health of Jamaica’s currency

The true value of the Jamaican Dollar, whether or not it is overvalued or undervalued, has been a constant source of debate among experts in the field. There are two opposing views commonly held by researchers studying exchange rate movements. On the one hand, during a visit to the island in June last year, IMF chief Christine Lagarde claims that the Jamaican currency was overvalued and that the rate should be higher. Meanwhile, the Bank of Jamaica Governor, Brian Wynter, supports the notion that the Jamaican dollar is no longer overvalued and therefore less susceptible to unpredictable depreciation.

Generally, debate of this nature is solved by using what economists call the “Big Mac Index” where the true value of a nation’s currency is determined by the ratio of the local price of the Big Mac in these countries. Why the Big Mac? There tends to be a McDonald’s restaurant in most countries and the Big Mac is often the sandwich of choice in many countries where there is a McDonald’s restaurant. This makes the famous sandwich an ideal benchmark to compare purchasing power among consumers in different countries, and thus the comparative value of their currencies

A McDonald’s restaurant was opened in Jamaica in the 1990s, but closed after about eight years of operation. Therefore with no McDonald’s restaurant, the popular Big Mac index cannot be used to determine the true exchange rate value.  We believe that a good proxy would be the “Whopper Index,” as Burger King restaurants are now rivaling McDonald’s restaurants in terms of global reach. In fact, the Whopper sandwich is considered a favorite of Americans and others living in foreign countries just like the Big Mac sandwich.

Using the current price of a Whopper in Jamaica of J$490, and the current price of a whopper in the USA as $4.29 would put the purchasing power parity exchange rate at J$114.22 to US$1. Given the current exchange rate of J$120 to US$1, and the fact that we have substituted the Whopper sandwich for the Big Mac, and given the fact that the Whopper sandwich price varies by region and state, we are inclined to agree with Governor Brian Wynter that the Jamaican Dollar is not overvalued. However, only time will tell, as theory predicts that if the Jamaican dollar is overvalued, we should see increase in the exchange rate in the near future.

Dr. Schrouder is an Associate Professor at Barry University and Dr. Rhodd, an Associate Professor and Associate Dean at Florida Atlantic University

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