Home Blog Page 1483

#Haitielections: US urges Haitian authorities to reach an agreement

US Department of State spokesman John Kirby

Martello leaves office with Haiti in crisis

The United States has called on all political actors in Haiti to support the agreement that averted a constitutional crisis in the country after President Michel Martelly demitted office on Sunday.

“We trust that all actors will keep the best interests of Haiti and its people above all other considerations,” said US Department of State spokesman John Kirby on Sunday, as he acknowledged the role of the special mission of the Organization of American States (OAS) in defusing the situation in the country.

Under the terms of the new agreement, Parliament will elect an interim President for a term of 120 days and confirm a consensus Prime Minister.

Continuation of the elections process to the second round will take place on April 24. The new President, elected by that process, will be installed on May 14, 2016.

Opposition parties had boycotted the January 24 second round of voting to choose a successor to Martelly after accusing him and the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) of planning to rig the polls in favour of the government-backed candidate Jovenel Moise.

The opposition backed Jude Celestin, who had said he would not participate in the second round of voting.

Kirby said the United States was looking forward to continue working with Haiti and its international partners “in support of strengthening democracy in Haiti”.

On Friday, the OAS said the agreement for the peaceful transition of government in Haiti was accomplished.

The mission chief, Sir Ronald Sanders, who is also Chair of the OAS Permanent Council said ‘we wish the stakeholders every success as we encourage them to implement the formula for going forward”.

 

Grenada celebrates 42 years of independence

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell r

PM Dr. Keith Mitchell urges unity as the island celebrates milestone

Grenada is observing its 42nd anniversary of political independence from Britain with a public holiday on Monday with Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell reminding citizens that the island’s “footprint in the world is larger than our 133 square miles”.

He said that Grenadians had established their marks in politics, finance, education and sports throughout the world with the “well-accomplished research consultant and entrepreneur, Mrs. Celina Caesar-Chavannes, appointed as Parliamentary Secretary to Canada’s new Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau.

“Only a few days ago, the Peel District School Board in Canada announced that Grenadian, the Honourable Jean Augustine, a former longstanding Parliamentarian in the Canadian Government, will have a Secondary School in Canada named after her—the Jean Augustine Secondary School,” Mitchell said.

“To use the lingo of our times: Take a bow, Grenada,” Mitchell said, adding that the while island had over the past 42 years has succeeded in building a respected democracy, ”we must always remember the most important commodity in our continued march toward consolidating our successes and reaching for more – that is unity of purpose.

“As we move forward, that unity becomes even more apparent and necessary. It is telling that our first plea to the nation three years ago upon assuming office, was the need for us to unite as a country if we were to successfully tackle the economic and human despondency which we faced.

“That our people have answered the call for unity and to put country first is an achievement we should all appreciate and continue to consolidate. We have indeed witnessed in the last couple years, a change in our patriotic responsibility.”

The Caribbean country attained independence from Britain on February 7, 1974 and on Sunday staged its traditional military parade to mark the occasion.

 

Cuba signs agreement with France to monitor air quality

The government of Cuba has signed a cooperation agreement with France to increase the island’s capacity to monitor air quality.

Earlier this week, representatives from Cuba’s Meteorology Institute of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment signed a letter of intention with the French Environment S.A. Company that will be responsible with the construction and production of the equipment linked with atmospheric contamination.

The instrument will begin cooperation which will ease the agreement in locating equipment in Cuba for an experimental phase said Celso Pazos, general director of Cuba’s Meteorology Institute.

Pazos explained that the French company will offer the equipment and the technical counseling and Cuba will play its role by have equipment installed in the Institution and the national meteorological service.

An academic exercise will also be done between both parties with the objective of analyzing the feasibility of later increasing the equipment in Cuba to monitor air quality.

According to Pazos the importance of the agreement is related with the Cuban government’s political will to protect the environment.

He noted that although Cuba’s contribution to global warming is low, the island is focused on reducing emissions and controlling contamination.

He said the agreement is an important step as it will increase the island’s capacity in measuring the quality of air and take steps in favor of reducing contamination.

St. Vincent signs multi-million dollar geothermal loan agreement

St. Vincent PM Gonsalves scoffs at idea of a national holiday to mark Queen Elizabeth’s burial
Ralph Gonsalves

Project funded as part of the US$350 million ADFD/IRENA project facility

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has signed a US$15 million loan agreement with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) to establish a geothermal power station on the Caribbean island.

The agreement was also signed by the SDFD director general Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi.

The geothermal project is being funded as part of the US$350 million ADFD/IRENA project facility, set up in 2012, to provide concessional financing for renewable energy projects in developing countries affiliated to International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

One of the five projects selected for funding as part of the second loan cycle facility, the power plant aims to utilize naturally occurring geothermal energy to plug the power shortage in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

It will also help drive the wider energy sector and accelerate sustainable economic development across

“The proposed geothermal power plant will give a strong boost to the energy sector in our country, supporting its economic growth and development programmes,” Gonsalves said.

“ADFD plays an active role in financing development projects that translate into significant economic and social impact in beneficiary countries. My government is keen to leverage our collaboration with the Fund to push ahead with more development projects that deliver key sustainable development goals and benefit the overall economy,” he added.

Suwaidi said “ADFD has paid particular attention to the renewable energy sector given the essential role of the sustainable energy in meeting the growing needs of developing countries, and supporting their social and economic development.

He said evidence suggests that despite the enormous potential of renewable energy in acting as a key enabler of sustainable development across the world, there remain challenges and gaps in the ease of accessing global funds to support these projects so we are delighted to be able to support this project by providing essential finance.

“The renewable energy projects financed by the Fund since 1974 to date have contributed to delivering clean energy for millions of people in more than 24 developing countries across the globe. These projects have generated thousands of megawatts of renewable energy, and stimulated economic growth in the beneficiary countries,” he added.

Puerto Rico declares health emergency over Zika virus

Virus continues to spread across the island

The Governor of Puerto Rico has declared a public health emergency due to the presence of the Zika virus across the island.

“Our principal objective is to guarantee the security of Puerto Ricans and to give them advice on necessary preventive measures”, said Governor Alejandro Garcia Padilla said in announcing the action .

Health officials in this U.S. territory say at least 22 people have been infected with the virus.

As a result, the State Emergency and Disaster Administration is creating a task force for both federal and state officials to deal with the crisis.

It was also announced that a price freeze has been ordered for products needed to prevent the disease.

Health officials revealed that a pregnant woman in her first trimester was diagnosed with the virus.

In addition, a man also diagnosed with the virus, has developed a rare paralysis syndrome – Guillain-Barré, that is sometimes associated with viral or bacterial infection.

The health authorities say they will track the cases and report the results weekly.

Concerning the impact on tourism, a statement issued by the government revealed that the virus is having an impact on the sector, with some tourist groups canceling reservations, particularly weddings in hotels.

However, there were no reports of conventions being canceled.

Bob Marley company launches new cannabis line

The branded cannabis to be sold with the permission of the legendary musician’s family

Just in time for the reggae legend’s birthday, a Bob Marley Cannabis Line has launched, dubbed “Marley Natural” included four types of cannabis flower, as well as hemp seed oil-based body care products.

The line of cannabis will initially be carried in a handful of dispensaries in California (where medical marijuana is legal) before expanding in that state over the next month. That expansion will continue to other states where the drug is legal throughout the rest of this year and, by next year, they will be sold internationally, the company said in a press release Friday morning.

The company is also launching a line of body care products, including lotion and soap, made with hemp seed oil and Jamaican botanicals as well as a line of wood and glass marijuana-smoking accessories. Those products are available to buy online.

The branded pot—named after Marley, who died from melanoma cancer in 1981—will be sold with the permission of the legendary musician’s family. It is part of a 30-year worldwide exclusive licensing agreement with Marley Natural’s parent company, Privateer Holdings, a cannabis-focused investment firm.

Commissioners ban fracking in Broward County

An application to drill an exploratory oil well in the Florida Everglades is currently under review

Commissioners recently unanimously banned any type of hydraulic and acid fracturing, known as “fracking”, to extract oil and gas from the ground in Broward County.  The vote comes as the Florida Legislature contemplates a series of bills that would stop local governments from regulating the practice.

“This is about protecting our water supply and environment,” said Commissioner Beam Furr, who brought the ordinance to the Commission for a vote.  “We’re discussing a ban on fracking today and at the same time state lawmakers are discussing taking away our authority to do so.  We must ban this now.”

Fracking involves the pumping of huge amounts of water, sand and chemicals into the ground using extreme pressure to recover oil and gas deposits.  Oil and gas companies are not currently required by federal or state law to disclose formulas used in fracking.

“This is Tallahassee once again trying to take away the authority of local elected officials who represent the people who live in Broward County.  This is a critical issue for us.  If necessary, I’m in favor of pursuing appropriate legal remedies to enforce this ordinance,” said Broward County Mayor Marty Kiar.

Dozens of people attended a public hearing to tell Commissioners they opposed fracking and spoke in favor of the ordinance to ban the controversial practice. An application to drill an exploratory oil well in the Florida Everglades, just west of the city of Miramar is currently under review by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Public and private water utilities across Broward County rely entirely upon groundwater sources, including the Biscayne and Floridan Aquifers for drinking water supplies.  The Floridan Aquifer alone is the source of drinking water for ten million residents.

Many of the chemicals used during the fracking process have resulted in thousands of documented cases of water contamination and adverse effects on human health and the environment in the United States.

Dietary differences? Keep breakfast satisfying with smart substitutions

5 common dietary differences

When it comes to breakfast, the options are truly endless. However these days, dietary sensitivities to dairy, eggs, nuts and meat-free lifestyle choices can make it challenging to serve a breakfast that’s nourishing and satisfying for everyone.

Fortunately, making smart substitutions and choosing alternative ingredients can allow you to savor breakfast without sacrificing any of your favorite dishes. Here are some common dietary differences, and easy ways to accommodate them at the breakfast table:

* Dairy sensitivity – About 65 percent of people have dairy sensitivities of varying degrees, according to the National Institutes of Health. Milk and dairy are key ingredients in many favorite breakfast foods, from lattes to smoothies to egg dishes. One dairy substitute that works for many people who are sensitive to dairy due to lactose is Lactaid. It’s 100 percent real, farm-fresh milk with all the vitamins and calcium found in regular milk, just without the lactose, which can cause discomfort. If you’re sensitive to dairy due to lactose, you can have Lactaid milk not only with your morning cereal, but also in any breakfast recipe that calls for milk. You can make muffins, banana pancakes, fruit smoothies and French toast using Lactaid.

* Egg-free – Whether you follow a vegan diet that eliminates all animal products, or have a sensitivity to eggs, you can still enjoy your favorite egg-based breakfast dishes. The countless food substitutes make it easy to enjoy the foods you love regardless of the diet. Many vegan quiche recipes, for example, replace the eggs with tofu. Egg-free pancakes rely on vegetable oil and baking powder to produce fluffy, smooth griddlecakes.

* Nut-free – If you’re a fan of granola, but want to follow a nut-free diet, you don’t have to give up this nutritious breakfast favorite. You can make your own granola and replace nuts with a variety of healthful, delicious seeds such as sunflower seeds. Have a breakfast recipe that calls for peanut butter? Try sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter as a substitute. Recipes that rely on nuts for crunch and texture (such as banana nut muffins) can also benefit from replacing the nuts with seeds.

* Vegetarian – Many people choose meat-free lifestyles for a number of reasons, including the health benefits of a diet rich in veggies. It’s possible to follow a vegetarian diet while still enjoying some of the flavors of popular breakfast meats. Vegetables make wonderful additions to omelets and breakfast burritos, and a number of companies offer meat-free products that mimic the taste and look of bacon or sausage.

* Gluten sensitivity – Millions of Americans have found that eliminating gluten from their diet helps them feel healthier. Until recently it could be challenging to find gluten-free breakfast foods, but now many grocery stores offer gluten free breads, muffins and other foods. It’s also easy to make your own gluten-free breakfast foods at home, thanks to online recipe banks like allrecipes.com, food.com and even foodnetwork.com.

Brandpointcontent.com

Jamaican elections spike keen interests in South Florida

Jamaicans head to the polls on February 25

Jamaican voters are set to vote February 25, following the recent announcement from Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller. The Opposition Jamaica Labor Party (JLP) led by Andrew Holness and the governing People’s National Party (PNP) will contest 63 constituents, seeking to win at least 32 seats to form the next government.

The announcement came as a relief for Miami businessman Lynford Beckels, who is among the few Jamaican registered voters residing in South Florida.

“Speculation of an early election went on much too long, and was beginning to become counter- productive for the country,” said Beckels. He remains keen on returning to Jamaica to vote, as “the election is going to be very close between the two parties, and my vote could really make a difference.”

And though the Jamaican constitution doesn’t allow the Diaspora to vote, that hasn’t stopped many Jamaicans in South Florida from weighing in.

“I think Jamaica is at a very serious junction.” said Jamaican University of Miami student, Staci Pennant. “The present government prevailed through difficult economic times, but there are signs of improvement. Should they be allowed to continue this work, or is it time for a change?”

Lake Worth teacher Rosemarie Stennett described herself as “an avid party activist” while living in Jamaica. “But since living in the U.S., I see the Jamaican situation more from a national [rather] than a party perspective. Jamaica’s main problem is youth unemployment.  Jamaicans should reason carefully and elect the party with the best plan to solve this everlasting problem to ensure the youth get jobs.”

Claude Russell of Miramar believes “voters in Jamaica are turned off by both political parties. Whichever party wins isn’t really going to represent the majority of the people. This can’t be good for the country.”

The results of a recent poll conducted by pollster Don Anderson shows the PNP leading the JLP by 4.3 percent (27.5 to 24.2 percent), while 17.4 percent of those surveyed remain undecided. But nearly a quarter of the electorate, at 23.2 percent, said they do not plan to participate.

The high voter absences “make it difficult to give an educated forecast on the election’s outcome,” said Miami political analyst Mortimer Gray, who focuses on Caribbean politics. “The outcome of these election will rest on [issues driven] voters. And urban voters versus rural voters, and how they are influenced by their leaders’ personalities. I predict the party leader with the strongest personal appeal to rural voters will win. Thus far, that leader is Simpson Miller.  For the JLP to win, Holness must buffer her charismatic-like appeal in three weeks.”

But Coral Spring-based Jamaican political bloggers Richard Blackford of “The Artful Blogger” said he doesn’t think the elections will be close “in terms of seats.”

“The vote distribution will as usual favor the PNP, but I don’t see it as being close.”

Ideological issues will also not be important in this elections, argues Blackford. “That isn’t the case and hasn’t been in the last four or five election cycles. Were there deep ideological differences, it could perhaps make a difference. Not so this time.”

New tool helps event organizers counterbalance carbon emissions

With the rise in awareness of the influences of carbon emissions to our environment, the Plan it Green Program, a local and voluntary carbon offset program intended to counterbalance carbon emissions generated by local events and visitors, has been revamped and relaunched.

The Plan It Green Program allows event organizers to offset carbon emissions generated by such things as transportation, product manufacturing, and electricity used for events, which contributes to the trapping of heat on the planet.

Administered and managed by Broward County’s Environmental Planning & Community Resilience Division (EPCRD), the Plan It Green Program, an online calculatorconverts event activities to carbon equivalents and assigns a dollar amount based on the number of trees required in order to offset the activity.

Visitors, event organizers and attendees can go to the website and calculate the carbon footprint associated with events and travel and make donations to offset their share of that footprint. Program participants receive a certificate of participation and their funds support local tree planting at Plan It Green designated sites.

In addition to offsetting carbon emissions, the Plan It Green program expands urban tree canopy providing more shading and cooling and creating wildlife habitats.  For less than $2 per person, the average event can be Plan It Green certified while achieving local and corporate sustainability objectives and protecting the natural environment against future climate impacts.

The program builds on Broward County’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions and the impacts of climate change through energy conservation, renewable energy initiatives and climate adaptation planning.

Miami must feature other minority retailers, says Miami Dade Commission

The airport terminal never felt so important. The precious cafes and duty-free stores that populate terminals at the Miami International Airport can be profitable real estate for contractors – but can also be a crucial platform to showcase key regional brands to travelers.

With this in mind, the Miami-Dade County Commission has ordered the Miami International Airport (MIA) to provide more ethnic diversity in their retail spaces, after MIA granted preferential contracts to both Miami-based clothing brand Perry Ellis and the Emilio and Gloria Estefan-owned Estefan Kitchen – a spin-off of their popular Cuban restaurant chain Bongos.

The two companies were selected for representing the ideal “flavor of Miami,” and was able to bypass the often fiercely competitive bidding process for contractors. The county commission, however, argued that the city’s other iconic companies among the Caribbean and Black community should be considered. MIA is now required to negotiate leases with famed Haitian restaurant Chef Creole and African-American-owned company, Jackson Soul Food. The commission did not specify whether other local retailers could be evaluated for the special no-bid deal.

“Tt was important that the concessions of MIA reflect the diverse cultures and peoples that make up the county. The flavor of Miami is not just Bongos, and it’s not just Perry Ellis,” said Commissioner Barbara Jordan, who presented the proposal, and is one of four black members on the 13-seat commission. “The flavor of Miami is also Chef Creole and Jackson Soul Food.”

Her legislation passed 9-1, with one lone no-vote Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava, who objected to the idea of offering a no-bid deal to any company, preferring all companies bid with equal access.

In their defense, MIA executives said they were already negotiating contracts with these two companies for 8-year leases, and had plans to add them to the list of vendors for the commission’s approval. Commissioner Jordan, however, said she was not “confident” that the executives would have proceed in diversifying the retail space without the commission’s intervention.

Bob Marley – a musical legend

Reggae icon continues to live on through his music

There are many musicians who have gone on to become more renowned after death, but none quite like Bob Marley. On Friday, February 6, Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley OM, had he been alive,would be celebrating his 71st birthday. However, even though it has been more than 33 yearssince the music legend was laid to rest, his music has never been more widespread, more popular, and more respected.

Bob Marley was not the only reggae musician of his time, but along with band mates of his groupThe Wailers, was able to put the reggae genre on the world stage, fully personifying its spirit and spreading its gospel to all corners of the globe with a series of hit songs and albums. Marley’s contribution to reggae, as well as other genres, is undeniable and the impact he left behind on the music industry is astounding, with many recognized artists today attributing much of their musical inspiration to him. Moreover, many of Marley’s lyrics speak to an upliftment that Marley referred toas “positive vibrations”.

Marley’s influence however, extended well beyond the parameters of music to political and social causes. Through his music Marley supported the peoples of South Africa’s struggle against apartheid most notably in his song entitled “War” which was a speech penned by Haile Selassie, the then Ethiopian Emperor who is considered the spiritual leader of the Rastafarian faith, the faith to which Marley ascribed. The song speaks to the fact that there will be no peace until all persons regardless of race or class are treated equally.

He also pushed for political change and because of his passionate vocalization of the struggles facing the poor and oppressed, he was loved by millions and even considered a heroic figure to some. It was only fitting in 1980 when he was presented with the United Nations Medal of Peace for his courageous work in appealing for justice and peace during a time of political unrest not only in Jamaica but internationally as well.

Marley achieved several other accomplishments during his lifetime, including earning induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, and selling more than 20 million records, a feat which has earned him recognition as the first international superstar from a third world country.

He was also awarded with the Order of Merit in his native Jamaica shortly before he succumbed to cancer on May 11, 1981. Despite not being around physically, Marley’s commitment to fighting oppression still continues through The Bob Marley Foundation, an organization that was established in his memory by the Marley family. The Foundation is devoted to helping people and organizations in developing nations fight the causes he so strongly verbalized musically

Get fit at the Dr. Fidel Goldson Sr. 5K Run

Bigger and better than ever, the 3rd annual Dr. Fidel Goldson Sr. 5K Run in the Gardens gets set to return on Saturday, February 20 Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex.

After last year’s huge success, this year’s event, hosted by the Goldson Spine Rehabilitation Center and The City of Miami Gardens, will see more cheers and fun as runners, patients, vendors and volunteers hit their strides to promote healthy living, while raising financial support for students. The run kicks off at 7:30 am, taking walkers and runners across scenic surroundings to Sun Life Stadium and back. Then a health expo and festivities follow at noon. The expo will also feature companies specializing in wellness and local businesses, sharing their insights into keeping fit with smart nutrition and produce benefits. The event will also include entertainment and host special guests.

All proceeds from the event will go toward providing a total of $3,000 in scholarships for the Miami Carol City and Norland High Schools. An additional $3,000 will go to the Kingston College Scholarship Fund created in honor of Dr. Fidel Goldson Sr.

The 5K Health and Wellness Expo was launched by Dr. Goldson Jr. in 2013 to honor the memory of his father, who spent his life spreading awareness on how natural health strategies can improve the quality of life.

“The reason why we put on this event is not only to continue my father’s legacy, but to also stress the importance of education to our youth,” said Dr. Goldson Jr. “My hope is that that people will come out to support and embrace this effort because we truly see it as a pathway to building stronger and healthier communities.”

St. Lucia opposition warns of “dirty campaign”

The leader of the small Opposition Lucian Peoples Movement (LPM), Therold Prudent, on Tuesday warned of what he termed “a dirty general election” in the coming months as St Lucians prepare to elect a new government.

Prudent told a news conference that while his party would not be part of that sort of campaign, he was predicting that millions of dollars will be spent by the ruling St Lucia Labour Party (SLP) after four years of dismal performance.

He also said that people would become targets of criticism by the ruling party.

“Even you members of the media will be attacked for presenting balanced views which they don’t want you to present. They want you to be in their pockets,” Prudent said, adding that the independence of journalists will be at stake.

“You are the ones to help to protect the democratic system,” he said.

“When you present a balanced view, they will take issue with you and tell you that you did not do it right, but you do not work for them, you work for your company and you work for the people of St Lucia most of all,” Prudent told the news conference.

The general election is constitutionally due by December, and the ruling SLP is expected to face a challenge from the main Opposition United Workers Party and the LPM.

“Doing Business with Belize” session set for February 9

Get down to business with Belize at the upcoming “Doing Business with Belize” session on February 9, starting 2 pm at the City of Lauderdale Lakes Educational and Cultural Center.

Hosted by the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD), this free event for local entrepreneurs includes a special presentation on export opportunities to Belize, organized in collaboration with the Belize American Chamber of Commerce and the Belize Ministry of International Trade. This session will also provide attendees with an opportunity to meet the Honorable Erwin Contreras, the Belize Minister of International Trade, and learn about the Belize American Chamber of Commerce’s upcoming trade mission to Belize.

Belize has many lucrative areas for investment, from renewable energy, consumer products, agriculture, construction and building materials, as well as technology. To register for this signature event, sign up at Eventbrite or contact the Office of Economic and Small Business Development at 954-357-6400.

The Belize session is just the latest in a year-long series hosted by the OESBD, exploring Broward County’s diverse trading opportunities with key international traders and markets.

#DrivingwhileBlack more expensive in Palm Beach

County’s black drivers disproportionally ticketed for seat belt infractions  

Black drivers in Palm Beach county are three times more likely to get tickets for not wearing a seat belt, according to a new report from American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

The ACLU compiled its report from data gathered by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, after a 2005 law required state law enforcement agencies to collect information on the race and ethnicity of drivers who are ticketed for not wearing seatbelts. The move was supposed to combat concerns about the racial profiling during traffic stops.

The report however shows the trend continuing across the state, with 147 different agencies surveyed across Florida. On average black motorists in Florida were given 22 percent of tickets for seatbelt violation issued in 2014, while representing only 13.5 percent of the statewide driving-age population with access to a car.

For South Florida’s civil rights advocate Clement Milton, the ACLU report is another reason why the Florida civil rights division of the state attorney office should “look into the high incidence of traffic stops involving black motorists to determine what is the root cause of these stops. These frequent stops are deterrent to positive race relations with law enforcement in Florida.”

Meanwhile, the ACLU has called on state police departments to review their training and policies on traffic stops. But this would have little effect on some counties like Miami-Dade, which has not complied with the law to report data on their arrests – a fact of great concern for the ACLU.

“We cannot have a law that requires reporting of the race of ticket recipients and has no consequences for the agencies that fail to comply,” said Howard Simon, Executive director of ACLU Florida.

Palm Beach County’s Sheriff’s department said they are still reviewing the report.

3 top rated attractions in Martinique

Thanks to its French Creole culture, and ever vibrant people, Martinique is one of the most unique destinations in the Caribbean. Check out 3 of their most top-rated attractions!

Downtown

Martinique’s lively capital city is safe and friendly for a walking tour, and must-see stops include the Schoelcher Library.The highlight of any visit is a stop at the bustling Covered Market, full of vendors selling unusual tropical produce, local handicrafts, and folk tonics, including at least one herbal answer to Viagra.

Mount Pelée

An active volcano, Mount Pelée erupted on May 8, 1902. The volcano is currently in a quiet phase and visitors can hike to the summit and enjoy spectacular views of the Atlantic and the surrounding mountains on clear days.

Trois Ilets

If you’re looking for nightlife entertainment, make your way down to the tiny marina village of Trois Ilets. Restaurants serve till about 11 p.m., and tourists and locals can dine by the marina or in old Creole houses. The tiny village also offers ice cream shops, clothing boutiques, and pizza joints.

Aretha Franklin, Janelle Monae join 2016 Jazz in the Gardens festival lineup

Singers join award-winning singer Usher at festival’s 11th staging

Queen of soul Aretha Franklin, R&B star Janelle Monae have been recently added to the line-up of the much anticipated Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival, set for March 20th at the Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens.

They join Grammy award-winning singer Usher, R&B sensation Babyface and iconic disco group, Kool and the Gang, as well as other local acts at the festival’s 11th staging.

Along with the festival, Miami Gardens hosts a Woman’s Impact Luncheon and an opening night party on March 18 that will will kick-off a weekend filled with music, food, fun and excitement. It will also shine some light on up-and-comers, as the organizers held open submissions for artists to send in their music for a chance to be one of the three artists to perform on stage.

Previous acts have included Mary J. Blige, Robin Thicke, Maxwell, Toni Braxton, Boyz II Men, Lauryn Hill and Run DMC.

For ticket information visit jazzinthegardens.com

Winston “Gypsy” Peters wins “ExTempo” Calypso title

Former T&T Minister heads to the Calypso finals

Former Trinidadian government minister Winston “Gypsy” Peters won his first title since his resignation as a minister in the Carnival celebrations.  

Gypsy won the “ExTempo” Calypso title ahead of the blind singer, Joseph “Lingo” Vautor-La Placeliere, in the final held at the Queen’s Park Savannah on Thursday night.

Karene Asche copped the Social Commentary category and Duane O’Connor won Political section of the competition.

Peters, who resigned from the People’s Partnership government after he was overlooked as a candidate for the September 7 general election last year, will join Asche in the finals of the 2016 Calypso Finals to be staged on Sunday night.

Peters, an accomplished calypsonian, who had put his career on hold while he served as a government minister for last five years, was warmly received by the crowd as he and Lingo exchanged “lyrics” during the battle for the top position.

 

Outrage over bill banning “Sanctuary Cities” for immigrants

Hazel Rogers

New bill requires police departments and schools to comply with federal immigration authorities on deportation requests

Jamaican-born Rep. Hazelle Rogers of Lauderdale Lakes is protesting the controversial HB 675 Bill passed by Florida House of Representatives.

The bill requires local agencies such as police departments and schools to comply with federal immigration authorities on deportation requests. Rep. Rogers says the bill is “not good for our local communities and the state of Florida.”   

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is one of six sheriff’s offices that have said they will limit their cooperation with the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement when it demands they detain an immigrant. The others are the Hernando, Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Broward sheriff’s offices..

In addition, the Miami-Dade County Commission has adopted a similar, countywide policy.

The ban proposed under the House bill would affect all seven counties.

Was Chris Gayle out of line?

Black History Month Spotlight: Roy L. Clay Sr.

Bringing PCs to everyone

Computer science pioneer Roy L. Clay Sr. helped engineer today’s personal computer as a leader in the development of Hewlett-Packard computer divisions. In the 1960 and 1970s, Clay ran the company’s first computer division and oversaw all computer-related research and development.

Establishing the foundation of today’s freewheeling personal computers seems a far cry from Clay’s oppressive upbringing in the Jim Crow South, growing up in Kinloch, Missouri, a predominantly black town adjacent to Ferguson (a town now famously in the news for its persistent unequal treatment of black residents). Clay recalls once as a teenager, while doing some gardening work one summer to earn some extra cash, he was harassed by Ferguson police officers, who told him to never show his face in town again. But he didn’t let that incident stop him, in part thanks to his mother, who told him, “Never let racism be a reason you do not succeed.”

He went on to become one of the first African Americans to graduate from St. Louis University. Clay quickly began building operating systems, developing a Fortran compiler at Control Data Corp. that made computers more user-friendly. At Hewlett Packard, Clay led the team that engineered HP’s entrance into the computer market with the development of the 2116A computer in 1966.

During his tenure at HP, Clay also established programs to help more African Americans get into Silicon Valley. When he forged out on his own to form his own company ROD-L Electronics (which became a world leader in electrical safety testing equipment), he also became at one point the largest employer of African American professionals in Silicon Valley.

Whether as a tech innovator or equality advocate, Clay will always be remembered as a champion for invention and creativity for all, no matter who you are.

Black History Month Spotlight: Sian A. Morson

Founder of Kollective Mobile, entrepreneur, and author

This Caribbean-American tech entrepreneur has been making her stamp on Silicon Valley as founder of Kollective Mobile – a company that builds mobile apps and mobile optimized websites for both fresh-faced startups and Fortune 500 companies. Born in Antigua and raised in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Morson has also become a major thought leader on mobile strategies, as well as a tireless advocate for more diversity in the tech industry. Ahead of her presentation at the upcoming Black Tech Week (February 17 – February 19) in Miami, the National Weekly spoke with Morson about her past inspirations and future plans.

NW: How did you get started in technology? Did your Caribbean background influence your interest?

SM: I fell into tech when I moved to the Bay Area during the first dot-com boom. I started my career as a Project Manager in advertising working for clients such as Philips, Audi, Coca-Cola and Reuters. My mom was a role model for me. She was and is the epitome of a self-starter. She also always had various entrepreneurial endeavors on the side. In terms of technology, I remember having an African-American computer teacher when I was in junior high school. I now know that was rare. So, I appreciate Mr. Fuller now more than ever.

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

SM: My most memorable project to date is one that we [Kollective Mobile] just completed. We created apps (Android and iOS) for the SEIU Local 2015 Union. It’s a union for nursing and home care workers. Growing up, my mom was a nurse’s aide briefly, as are many West Indians. This project was near and dear to my heart because I was able to work closely with the people who would be using the application to make their jobs easier. It’s sometimes rare to see the fruits of your labor in my industry, but this was a great opportunity.

NW: What would you recommend to students interested in joining the tech industry? 

SM: Figure out what your passion is and then try to understand how technology can enhance it. Everyone doesn’t have to be a coder.

NW: Why do you think more diversity in technology is important? 

SM: I believe it’s important for young people to see other POC in technology as role models. We need to change the narrative away from the only career options being available for our youth is in entertainment or sports. These are fine professions for sure, but we need to show that there are other options. That’s why what Black Tech Week is doing is so important. It’s really going to help shed some light on technologists that are doing great work that others can aspire to.

Community speaks out over anti-undocumented immigrant bill

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, February 5, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Jamaican-born Rep. Hazelle Rogers of Lauderdale Lakes is protesting the controversial HB 675 Bill passed by Florida House of Representatives. The bill requires local agencies such as police departments and schools to comply with federal immigration authorities on deportation requests. Rep. Rogers says the bill is “not good for our local communities and the state of Florida.”

The pedestrian recently hit and killed crossing State Road 7 in Lauderdale Lakes has been identified as Guyanese native Goonwatty Ramnarine, age 59. Investigators says the driver was not impaired, and has stayed at the scene, calling 911 for assistance. Ramnarine reportedly was on her way to work as an aide at a nearby preschool. She is survived by her husband, Nanraj.

Rum and reggae get set to collide this Saturday at the Tropical Rum Festival, starting 3 pm at the Meyer Ampitheater in downtown West Palm Beach. Headline acts include Yellow man, Luciano, Dutty Dex and the Code Red Band. The event will also include selections of local and international rums.

In sports, it was clear victories for Miami United and Lauderhill Lions at the recent Caribbean American Soccer Association’s (CASA) Super League tournament at the Lauderhill Sports Park. Miami United won 5 to 3 against Team Haiti, while Lauderhill Lions defeated Team Academy 2 nil. Miami United captain Pedro Yunez says the tournament has proven invaluable for local players. The tournament continues this Saturday with two more showdowns, starting 6:15 pm

What’s trending:

Queen of soul Aretha Franklin and R&B star Janelle Monae has been added to the line-up of the much anticipated Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival, set for March 20th at the Sun Life Stadium. They join Grammy award-winning singer Usher and iconic disco group, Kool and the Gang.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 65 and a low of 61. For Miami-Dade, partly cloudy with a high of 65 and a low of 61.

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.

Push continues for equal pay for women

New proposed measures seeks to ensure companies’ compliance with the Fair Pay Act

Local labor advocates are praising the new proposed measures to strengthen the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, announced by President Obama last week.

The new regulations would require private companies with 100 or more employees to include salary information by gender, race, and ethnicity to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The measure seeks to ensure companies’ compliance with the Fair Pay Act.

A report by the American Association of University Women (AAU) reports the annual median salary for Florida women in 2013 was $33,823, compared to $40,951 for men, at a ratio of 83 percent.

This trend, says Miami employment consultant Margaret Jacques, also remains the same in South Florida. She said in 2012, women in Florida made an average of 77 percent of the salaries men earned, but that average has only increased to the current ratio of approximately 82 percent.

“Although Florida complied with the 2009 Fair Pay Act, and has a law that makes it illegal for employers to discriminate in salaries and wages between men and women on jobs which requires equal skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions, all employers do not follow this law,” says Jacques.

Jacques attributes this to the low enrollment of workers in the state, which currently stands at 8 percent.

“Without the protection, some employers are getting away with discrimination in salaries paid between men and women,” says Jacques. “The proposal will force employers to document the salaries paid and serve to counter this discrimination.”

National Weekly’s investigation with several South Florida businesses, small and large, bore out that salaries were paid based “on performance, not gender.” However, a female floor supervisor in a Miami-Dade factory claim she was being paid $6 per hour less, compared to her male counterparts, although she has held the position 15 months longer.

“There’s no way you can prove there is discrimination in this factory,” Jacques said, “unless you were allowed to examine the company’s payroll records. Most companies are very protective of these records even among employees. Obama’s measure would make the payroll information available.”

EEOC Chair Jenny Yang said the new rule proposed by Obama should be completed by 2016, with the first reports from employers due by September 2017.

“Unfortunately not many workers realize if there’s discrimination in the wages they receive,” said Miami attorney Leslie Fields, whose has defended many workplace discrimination cases. “[They] only realize this discrimination several months after employment, losing precious time in filing a wage dispute claim, as the window to file is only two years from the salary was first paid.”

 

1...1,4821,4831,484...1,544Page 1,483 of 1,544