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Taste of Lauderhill tour takes foodies to the city’s best spots

From Jamaica to South Korea, and from pizza to sushi, get a big bite of what the City of Lauderhill has to offer at the upcoming Lauderhill Taste tour, set for Saturday, January 23.

Ride, eat, drink and learn about a community full of cultural diversity and authentic grub from places like the ever popular Jerk Machine Restaurant and Woodlands Indian Cuisine. Divided into a lunch and dinner tour, the event showcases cuisine from Jamaica, Korea, Italy, France, India Mexico, Japan and the good ol’ USA. The lunch tour will stop at casual eateries from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., while the dinner tour features fine dining establishments from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“With the opening of the new Lauderhill Performing Arts Center in January, we expect many to visit Lauderhill to enjoy the culinary offerings of our All-America City,” explained City Commissioner and tour organizer Hayward J. Benson, Jr., and Lauderhill Taste Organizer. “I thought it was a great time to introduce those visitors to all the wonderful restaurants many of us here in Lauderhill have known and loved for years.”

In addition, The Lauderhill SPICE Promotion will offer appetizing pre-fixed three-course menu selections for participating restaurants. Participating restaurants include: Fra Diavolo Italian Restaurant, Le Creperie, Sashi Suchi, ROK, Woodland’s Indian Cuisine. The Lauderhill SPICE Promotion will take place from January 11 to February 11.

Missing Jamaican woman found in Delray Beach

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, January 14, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Jamaican Delray Beach resident Marie Hutchinson, who went missing last week, has been found safe, reports the city police. Hutchinson is now being treated at a mental health facility in Broward County. Officials says the family is very grateful for the community’s efforts in locating Hutchinson, who is mentally challenged and unfamiliar with the area.

Company Jamaican Teas Ltd. reports that it has doubled its annual exports to more than $US 3 million in five years, thanks to targeting major growth markets in Florida. The company, which carries the popular Caribbean Dreams brand in Florida, also boosted domestic revenue for its beverage products by 60 percent since 2010.

Jamaican-born Reverend Horace D. Ward is celebrating 20 years as the popular Rector of the Holy Family Episcopal this Saturday with a special celebration at the church in Miami. A commemorative service will begin at 4 p.m. in the Sanctuary, and will be followed by cocktails in the Clinton Brown Center.

Former West Indies Cricketer Kieran Powell says his surprising transition to baseball is going well, despite the challenge of changing his cricket swing to fit baseball’s style. Yesterday, scouts from over 11 major league teams came out to watch his performance in a private workout at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL, where he has been training for the past 5 weeks.

What’s trending:

Hollywood star Taye Diggs expressed shock over the current skin bleaching tread during his recent trip to Jamaica. Currently in Kingston to promote his children’s books “Mixed Me” and “Chocolate Me,” which tackles racial identity and self-love, Diggs says he hopes his new works can promote more pride and confidence among Jamaican children.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Scattered showers in Broward County with a high of 72 and a low of 67. For Miami-Dade, showers with a high of 70 and a low of 67.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com.

 

Japan to help Guyana improve drainage problems in capital

The Government of Japan will be making resources available to improve the drainage across Georgetown.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge told the Government Information Agency that the proposal from Japan will contribute to the reduction of flooding in the city.

“…It now brings in additional resources and skills from Japan… as part of that mechanism we will put together the existing programmes to which other bilaterals may have been contributing,” Greenidge explained.

The execution of the project will see the Ministry of Agriculture, its National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, the municipality and Central Georgetown being brought together within a singular framework in order to have a coherent plan to treat the problem of the city’s constant flooding.

“The physical work is perhaps the last stage because they now have to devise this plan, draw up plans, then integrate them …before construction commences…that dimension is already on the way…in the case of the next 18 months or so the results of a number of these can be seen,” he added.

Throughout the years, Japan has made consistent contributions that assisted with Guyana’s development.

These include, US$9.5 million for the establishment of a new water treatment plant at Queenstown, Corriverton, Berbice in 2009; and a US$2.9-million grant aid project, which was utilised to import civil engineering equipment and electric power machinery in 2014.

South Florida reacts to Obama’s last “State of the Union”

President Barack Obama’s last “State of the Union” may have had a vastly diverse effect on TV viewers in the Caribbean-American community. However, there was consensus from supporters across party lines regarding Obama’s call to “fix our politics.”

“I thought the speech was another example of Obama’s unrealistic rhetoric,” said local Young Republicans member Courtney Jasper, 24, of Sunrise. “But I agree with him that America is too divided politically. This is where I want to see the change he’s been speaking about.”

On the other hand, Abdulla Ali, a Muslim resident in Miami Gardens said he was proud of the president’s “unflinching” support for Muslims on Tuesday night. Ali said he was particularly proud in Obama’s statement that “when politicians insult Muslims, that doesn’t make us safer.”

“We’re going to need a national coalition to remove the bigotry among some American politicians and some people,” says Ali.

Another South Florida Muslim resident, Rachel Shabazz, said the president was most effective when he urged Americans to “reject any politician that targets people because of race and religion.”

“There is too much hatred existing in our communities because of racial and religious hatred,” says Shabazz. “If the county is to progress, we the people must be vigilant to put a stop to it.”

Florida House Democratic candidate Roxanne Valies says she was most impressed by Obama’s call for Americans to heed the opening words of the American Constitution – “We the People,” which demonstrates the “power in our collective voices and votes.”

Though Palm Beach County Republican organizer Perry Cujoe says “there’s plenty I disagreed with in Obama’s speech,” he also “agree[s] the political system in America need changing. Like the president said, if we want a better politics, it’s not enough to just change a congressman or a senator or even a President; we have to change the system to reflect our better selves.”

 

Cudjoe’s Democratic counterpart in Miami, campaign organizer Bridgette Steele, said she was enthused by Obama’s renewed focus on ending partisan divide in his last year in office.

“One of the regrets of his presidency is the “rancor and suspicion between the political parties got worse,” says Steele. “If he succeeds in ending this divisive rancor, it would be a great achievement.”

St. Lucian-American heads to Hollywood for “American Idol”

Lee Jean Jr.

The Diaspora will be watching the Hollywood audition rounds on this season’s “American Idol” with bated breath, hoping for victory for young St. Lucian American contestant, Lee Jean Jr.

The 16-year-old Bluffton, North Carolina native got nods from all three judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr., for his rendition of “I See Fire” by Ed Sheeran. Jean Jr. wooed the visibly impressed judges with his smooth vocals over his own sacoustic guitar.

“I wanna squeeze you,” joked the one and only JLo on Jean Jr.’s stellar performance. “You’re so cute and so talented There’s an ease about your talent.”

Connick Jr. suggested that Jean needs to work on his pitch (which did falter in parts), but expressed confidence that he could learn to adjust. Urban complemented the young singer on his beautiful tone, saying he had a wonderful “singer/songwriter quality.”

“You could tell a story and I’m listening,” said Urban. “I’m interested in what you’re singing about. You’ve got so much God-given talent.”

Jean Jr. father, Lee Jean, is a St. Lucian from Patience, Mon Repos who immigrated to the United States with his family. Jean Jr. spoke about the close bond of his big Caribbean-American family, particularly following the loss of his older brother B.J.  in 2012. Before going in for his audition, his mom tells him “bring it home for B.J.”

“This little golden ticket alone means the world to my family,” said Jean Jr. after the successful audition. “And I know it would especially mean a lot to my brother B.J. And I know right now he’s smiling down on us and saying ‘I knew he was gonna do it.’ Cause he always knew.”

Caribbean-American fans will definitely be keeping their fingers crossed for this promising young crooner, as he competed for the title in landmark last season of “American Idol.”

Austin shortlisted for “Male Player of the Year”

Jamaican Reggae Boy skipper Rodolph Austin has been shortlisted for the CONCACAF Male Player of the Year. The 30-year-old midfielder attracted attention for his stellar performance at the pat Copa America tournament, leading the team to a historic final – the first ever for Team Jamaica.

Austin is the only Caribbean player nominated for the award this year on a list that includes Mexican stars Andres Gaurdado, Hirving Lozano, Oribe Peralta Javier Hernandez and Jesus Corona, Costa Rica’s Brian Ruiz, United States’ Clint Dempsey and Michael Bradley and Canada’s Cyle Larin.

Fellow Jamaicans Andre Miller and Dwayne Miller have also been nominated for “Goalkeepers of the Year.” Meanwhile, Reggae Boyz Coach Winfried Schaffer is also up for the “Coach of the Year” award

The CONCACAF awards seeks to recognize top players, coaches and referees in both women’s and men’s events from the CONCACAF region.

Missing Jamaican woman found in Delray Beach

Jamaican Delray Beach resident Marie Hutchinson, 43, who went missing January 6, has been found safe.

Speaking to the National Weekly, Deray Beach Detective Gary Ferreri said that Hutchinson, who is mentally challenged, was located safe and unharmed on Wednesday morning at 1:00 a.m. at a behavioral health facility in Broward County.

Mother Lilly Haye made an emotional appeal to the public for help finding her daughter, fearing that her daughter, who she brought from Jamaica this past December, would be harmed. On the morning of her disappearance, Haye had left her daughter in the home with her son, who was asleep, to take her grandson to school. When she returned a short time later, her daughter was missing, and was last seen by a neighbor around 9:00 a.m. that day.

Detective Ferreri, who led the investigations and search, said the city police conducted house to house searches, widely distributed fliers, held press conferences, solicited the help of the media, and sought the cooperation of police departments in Broward and Miami-Dade County in their efforts to find Hutchinson.

“Due to the extensive media coverage, leads from the public, combined with the collaboration of many law enforcement agencies at the local, county, state and federal level, Marie was located healthy and unharmed,” says Ferreri. He also offered special thanks to two Broward Sheriffs deputies and their Sergeant, for their attentiveness.

Ferreri also said he also wanted to thank the community for their efforts in locating Hutchinson, who he said will be returning home to her family “very soon”.

Efforts to contact Haye were unsuccessful, but a family member said she “cannot stop thanking God, the Delray police and all those, several of whom were strangers, who assisted in finding Marie.”

The family member said Haye experienced a very difficult time since her daughter went missing exactly a week ago.

“Her relief and appreciation at Marie having being found is a touching example of a mother’s love.”

Youtuber makes parody “Don’t blush baby” Chris Gayle video

Cricketer Chris Gayle created quite an uproar last week after his comments to a female reporter drew heavy criticism on social media, some describing them as as “disrespectful and simply inappropriate.”

After scoring 41 from 15 deliveries in the Melbourne Renegades win over the Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL on Monday night (Australia time), the former West Indies captain suggested to television reporter Mel McLaughlin that the pair go out for a drink. He added, “Don’t blush,” during an awkward pause in the interview.

Some individuals have made fun of the situation by creating t-shirts with the words “Don’t blush baby” in bright fonts, along with a picture of the cricketer. Others have created parody videos, recreating the incident and added a twist to it. Youtube account “Lexo TV” recently released a muppet version.

Soca Star Lyons-Alvarez runs for #10Goldsby2024

Soca star Fay-Ann Lyons-Alvarez will be leading the march for 10 Golds by 2024 Athlete Welfare and Preparation Fund initiative, run by the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC). Lyons-Alvarez will participate in this Sunday’s T&T International Marathon (TTIM), competing in the relay segment of the event alongside fellow entertainers Peter C Lewis, Devon Matthews of Red 96.7FM, as well as Hans Romany of We Sports.

The entertainers will donate their miles and pledged donations to the fund, which seeks to provide financial support to the nation’s athletes training for the Olympic Games.

And, thanks to her help, the Diaspora could also get involved in the cause. When approached to be part of the project, Lyons-Alvarez said she wanted more from it than just competing in a race and having the focus die at the finish line. So to keep the momentum going, a web site was built and launched where all fitness enthusiasts could pledge the miles covered in their daily exercise routine to sustain the awareness of the TTOC campaign. Donations would then be made to the TTOC’s Scotiabank account towards ensuring this country’s champion athletes were able to keep their training regimen on track for Rio 2016 Olympics.

“Destination Fridays” goes Jamming in Jamaica

Last year’s “Destination Fridays: Jamaica” celebrating Bob Marley’s birthday was truly a grand slam hit for the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC), with more than 360 people attending and plenty of people begging for its return.

So by popular demand, all things Jamaica and Bob Marley will be the theme for the first “Destination Fridays” event in 2016, set for February 5 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Adults age 21 and over can enjoy an evening of Jamaican effervescence, with rum punch, traditional dishes, lively music, and dancing in the lobby!

Get set for performances from singer Kristine-Alicia and sax man Randy Corinthian, along with poetry by Dr. Susan Davis. Local Jamaican art photographer David Muir is also providing some cinematic sights of Jamaica’s natural bounty in the library gallery.

So come dressed to jam in your Bob Marley t-shirt and your reggae colors. Dance your way to fitness with the ReggaeFit team and channel your inner Bob Marley for the Lip Sync Smackdown – where the grand prize winner can walk away with a $200 gift card.

Jamaica is just the first of many country-themed parties being presented this year by the AARLCC. For March 18, the festivities head to India, inspired by glamorous Bollywood films. Then the celebration continues in the Caribbean, with a Cuban-inspired fiesta on April 8, and a Haitian-themed fete on May 6. The September 9th party heads to Madrid Spain, and come October 7th, the celebrations go to New York with a Harlem Renaissance theme.

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.

Black Tech Week: Conference celebrates minority-owned start-ups

Entreprenuer Michael Hall at the 2015 Black Tech Week

 

Tech innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors will converge in Miami for the second annual Black Tech Week, from February 15 to 20.

Launched by co-founders, Jamaican-born Felecia Hatcher and her husband Derick Pearson of tech non-profit Code Fever, Black Tech Week seeks to change the narrative surrounding the Black community and the tech industry, replacing it with stories of innovation, creativity, and technology.

Key speakers and experts include Jeff Hoffman, Hollywood film producer and cofounder of Priceline.com; George E. Curry, founder of Emerge Magazine; Melissa James, President of The Tech Connection – the premier marketplace for purpose driven, diverse technical talent; and Kathryn Finney, Managing Director of digitalundivided – a social enterprise that finds, supports, and trains urban tech entrepreneurs.

From broad discussion of industry issues, to support programs for budding teen coders and local start-ups, the conference provides a dynamic and empowering resources for minority entrepreneurs. Participants can get hands-on with practical advice on what it takes to succeed, with a slew of panel discussions, business pitch competitions, and investor sessions. Also, continuing Code Fever’s commitment to teaching minority youth how to code, create technologies, and become entrepreneurs, the conference will also include over five “Youth Innovation” events.

And this special conference isn’t all business. The event also includes parties and “meet and greets” galore, particularly a special “Women’s Innovation Brunch,” highlighting the contributions of women entrepreneurs.

Last year’s inaugural event was well received by the local community, calling attention to the persistent lack of diversity within the tech industry – and how Miami’s unique blend of cultural diversity and rich innovation could serve as an anecdote to this issue.

“When I sat down with members of our steering committee to discuss the momentum in Miami and all the various conversations about diversity and inclusion in the tech space, we realized…the time was ripe for an event like this in Miami,” said Hatcher. “It’s time for an event that provides a collision point between tech, innovation and culture with a real focus on Miami as a conduit to the Caribbean and African Diaspora.”

South Florida remembers 6th anniversary of 2010 earthquake in Haiti.

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

Local advocacy group Haitian Women of Miami hosted a prayer vigil and silent march yesterday, commemorating the 6th anniversary of the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Local government leaders and earthquake survivors also attended the vigil, which also called for political unity in Haiti as the election fraud debate continues.

Florida Senator Marco Rubio has filed legislation seeking to curb welfare abuse by newly arrived Cuban immigrants. The presidential candidate says too many collect welfare, only to return to Cuba. The bill would require immigrants to provide proof of persecution before accessing services such as food stamps and Medicaid. Cuban immigrants are the only group automatically presumed as refuges, with immediate access to welfare services.

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, The Caribbean Cultural Coalition and City of Sunrise is hosting a special “Night of the Arts” concert this Sunday, starting 6 pm at the Sunrise Civic Center. The event will include an exhibit of paintings by Charles Mills, live music from the Valerie Tyson Band, the Hope band, and saxophonist Gary Palmer, and a performance of Dr. King’s “I have a dream” speech.

In his first interview since his 2009 fraud indictment, former Caribbean T20 Cricket sponsor Allen Stanford expressed regret for the damage his arrest did to the sport. But Stanford maintained his innocence, calling the charges against him “overzealous and wrongful prosecution. The founder of the popular Stanford 20/20 cricket tournament in the West Indies is serving a 110-year sentence in Florida.

What’s trending:

The Miami-based Jamaican born artist Sean Kingston stopped by in August Town, meeting with students in the area.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Partly cloudy in Broward County with a high of 73 and a low of 59. For Miami-Dade, mostly cloudy with a high of 74 and a low of 62.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. 

 

Marco Rubio files legislation to curb welfare abuse by Cuban immigrants

Florida Senator Marco Rubio has filed legislation seeking to curb welfare abuse by newly arrived Cuban immigrants.

The presidential candidate says too many collect welfare, only to return to Cuba. The bill would require immigrants to provide proof of persecution before accessing services such as food stamps and Medicaid.

Cuban immigrants are the only group automatically presumed as refuges, with immediate access to welfare services.

Rubio, who is the son of Cuban immigrants, has stated on the campaign trail in recent weeks that the special treatment afforded to those fleeing the island must be re-examined in light of “outrageous abuse” of the existing law.

A growing number of Cuban Americans in Congress have advocated for reforms to the conditions under which the federal benefits are provided, amid increased scrutiny over how the program is being used.

In addition to Rubio’s bill, Florida Republican Carlos Curbelo filed similar legislation in the House of Representatives last month that has since gained bipartisan support – including from Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a Florida congresswoman who chairs the Democratic National Committee.

St. Lucia PM takes offense at Chastanet’s CIP comments

Prime Minister Dr.  Kenny Anthony has taken offence to recent statement by Leader of the   opposition United Workers Party (UWP) Allen Chastanet that the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) has “gone rogue.”

Describing it as  “disrespectful and offensive” Anthony, who is also Finance Minister, said the statement attacks the integrity of every single person involved in the CIP from the members of the Board to the employees of the Unit.

“When a statement like that is made, it is clear that Chastanet wants to destroy the programme. His objective is to discourage badly needed investment in our country, and ultimately to prevent the programme from getting off the ground. The question is this: Why does Allen Chastanet want to harm our country?”.

The Prime Minister contended that not a single application for citizenship has been granted, yet Chastanet says the Programme has “gone rogue.”

He noted that the Government of St Lucia has appointed three major international firms or bodies to conduct due diligence on its behalf –  Thomson Reuters, BDO Consulting and IPSA International.

“Is Chastanet saying that these firms too are participating in questionable practices?

The Prime Minister said that Chastanet will not be allowed to get away with malicious insinuations, adding that in time “his dealings with certain external operatives in the sector will be exposed for all to see.”

The opposition UWP, led by Chastanet which initially supported the CIP has recently stepped-up it’s ‎criticism of the programme following its discovery of the over 12 month appointment of Saudi Arabian billionaire Walid Al Juffali as the island’s representative at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

The UWP has questioned the appointment given the fact that he was yet to attend a single meeting of the IMO and the fact that Juffali had allegedly been provided with ‎a St.Lucia passport.

The opposition further contends ‎that the only reason his appointment became known here was when an English newspaper published a story of Juffali claiming diplomatic immunity on the basis of his IMO appointment to resist the right of his former wife to seek judicial determination to her right to property in an English Court.

The British Government has since taken the unusual step of asking the St.Lucia Government to have his diplomatic immunity waived so that his wife could have her day in court, and has requested that the Government reply by Thursday.

The opposition has asked whether Juffali‎ is a “citizen-by-investment” of St.Lucia, and if so when did this happen, and how much has he invested in the island.

Arrangements for Juffali’s appointment were made by the then St.Lucia’s  Ambassador to the UK Dr. Ernest Hilaire, who has since retired and taken up the position of Chairman of the CIP.

 

US to help Guyana crack down on gold smuggling

Guyanese security officials have partnered with the FBI and U.S. Homeland Security to curb loopholes leading to the surge of gold smuggling.

Reports estimates that the country loses up to 60 percent of production to smuggling, with much of the gold passing through the Miami International Airport. Authorities say illegal trade is driven by better prices overseas, as well as tax dodging.

Miners Association spokesman Colin Sparman blamed the smuggling operation on buyers who fly to jungle mining camps with large suitcases of cash and offer miners higher prices than the government’s gold board.

Gold is Guyana’s main export and generated nearly $1 billion in revenue in 2013. However, the price of gold slid to a six-year low in 2015 amid a sluggish global economy.

Greenlight for Miami-based comedy #Josh

New show details growing pains of Haitian-American millennials

TV watchers well know the cinematic worlds of New York and L.A. But when it comes to Miami, us poor coach surfers are relegated to crime series, focusing on the city’s glitzy wealthy, with no hint of the SoFlo locals know and love.

Local filmmakers Edson Jean and Joshua Jean-Baptiste are just as bored with TV’s Miami, and are setting out to change that with their new web series, “#Josh” – the coming-of-age tale about a Haitian American millennial Miamian lost after the death of his mother, and forced to coexist with his promiscuous problematic cousin Wes, all while facing his fears of a human connection.

#Josh has just won the “#GetTheGreenlight” web contest from Project Greenlight, the popular Ben Affleck and Matt Damon HBO series which guides an aspiring filmmaker through the production process. Jean and Jean-Baptiste will get $25,000 for the show’s development, as well as distribution for their series.

Winning based on public votes, the show had stood out from its competitors for its witty portrayal of the tricky pitfalls of managing relationships online.

“[#Josh] revolves around social media and its effects on our generation,” says Jean in their pitch video. “Using motion graphics as a story-telling method, we’ll illustrate character interaction via mobile devices, web, etc., emerging viewers into the zeitgeist of the #Josh world.”

Most of all, #Josh is told through the eyes of a young Haitian American living in Miami, sensitively written by Jean and Jean-Baptiste based on their own experiences.

“[#Josh] has unique cultural representation,” says Jean. “How many TV or web series are told through the Haitian American perspective?”

The show, however, sets out to prove that just because a story’s protagonist may feature a minority community such as Haitian Americans and Caribbean-Americans, that doesn’t make its meaning any less relevant to American viewers.

“This is a universal story,” says Jean. “The journey in discovering oneself without a reliable male figure is something people can relate to.”

 

5 Calypso songs that will never get old

It’s almost the the middle of the week, and thankfully the weekend is not that far around the corner. To get you through the rest of the week, check out these 5 calypso songs that will give you a musical boost.

Jean & Dinah -Mighty Sparrow

Slinger Francisco, better known by his stage name Mighty Sparrow is one of the best-known and most successful Calypso singers around town. Dubbed the “Calypso King of the World”, Sparrow, through his lifetime, has delivered hit after hit which has won him Trinidad’s Carnival Road March competition eight times.  Sparrow released Jean & Dinah in 1956 and after a few weeks, the single became an international hit.

Hot hot hot – Arrow

“Feeling hot hot hot!” Every true calypso fan knows this soca classic. Featured on his 1982 album cakked Hot, hot hot,  the single became an instant hit in Arrow’s native country Trinidad & Tobago and worldwide.

Rum & Coca Cola – Lord Invader

Composed in 1943 by Trinidadian musicians Lord Invader and Lionel Belasco, the single was copyrighted by entertainer Morey Amsterdam. The song became a huge hit in the United States making it to the Billboard’s U.S. Pop Singles Chart.

Bee’s Melody- Lord Kitchener

The catchy and beautiful Bee’s Melody, written by calypsonian Lord Kitchener is one of those songs that will surely get the party going. The fast paced beat really makes you want to just jump out of your seat and show off your best dance moves. In the 1960s and 1970s, Kitchener along with Mighty Sparrow dominated the calypso competitions with their worldwide hits.

Cent, 5 cent – Soca Boys

“Cent, 5 cent, 10 cent dolla!, cent 5 cent 10 cent dolla!”. A party could not be considered a calypso party if this song wasn’t played. The very catchy lyrics made this club banger a favorite in the 90s, especially among the ladies.

West Indies climb to No 1 in T20 world rankings

The West Indies cricket team is the No. 1 side in the ICC Twenty20 rankings.

The Caribbean side claimed the top spot after Sri Lanka, who had largely occupied the top spot since they won the World Twenty20 in 2014, were whitewashed by New Zealand in their two-match series on Sunday.

New Zealand completed the sweep following an easy nine-wicket victory in Auckland. They completed the victory in 10 overs

West Indies have 118.36 rating points, and are now marginally ahead of both Sri Lanka and Australia ahead of the World Cup in India in March.

West Indies have played eight matches since the end of the World Twenty20 in April 2014 and won four of them, including a world record chase against South Africa in January 2015.

Sri Lanka had started the two-match series against New Zealand with a seven-point lead. Losing it 0-2 meant they were yet to win a Twenty20 series since becoming World Twenty20 champions (although they beat England in a one-off match in May 2014) and were pushed off their No. 1 slot.

 

Get Zumba fit at Westfield Broward Mall

 

Starting Wednesday January 13th Westfield Broward will offer Free Zumba Classes every Wednesday from 6pm – 7pm in the Macy’s Court.

Westfield Broward and Memorial Healthcare Systems instructors have joined forces to offer the community a free and fun way to exercise.

“This is one of the ways we give back to the community” says Andrew Martineau, Marketing Director of Westfield Broward. “As Plantation’s iconic mall evolves to be more than just a shopping destination, these Zumba classes give customers an opportunity to get some exercise in before they head home for the day.”

“Zumba is unlike any other work out regime” says Dina Dolan, Zumba instructor. “The music and the routines are so much fun, participants won’t even feel like they’re working out!”

Persons interested in participating are encouraged to get their FREE ticket on Eventbrite at the following link:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/zumba-wednesdays-tickets-20437434918. Space is limited so persons are advised to  RSVP in advance.

 

Five ways to up your entrepreneurial game this year in Broward County

Get Tactical

A New Year means a new business strategy. Get your business blueprint in gear at the 2016 Capacity Building Conference, running from March 4th to 5th at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center. This premier event promises new insights and an inclusive opportunity to connection with business experts and promising ventures. Featuring local a nationally celebrate experts, this event is perfect for establishing business owners and current Broward County venders.

Be sure to get registered as a sponsor, an exhibitor or attendee at CapacityBuilding.Broward.org.

Go Global

The OESBD has made accessibility to foreign markets a priority, with tons of informative programs on how local business can maximize connections with overseas trading.

For January, there are two useful educational sessions focusing on trading with foreign-based businesses. The latest session “Florida Export Opportunities: Mexico” is set for Tuesday, January 19, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Stadium Field House Hall in Central Broward Regional Parks. This session provides an overview of Mexico’s market and learn more about Enterprise Florida’s Export Development Trade Mission to Mexico City.

They will also be hosting another session called “Doing Business with the Italian Government: Healthcare Sector,” which is set for Thursday, January 21, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Broward Health Conference Room in Fort Lauderdale. Designed for medical device, pharmaceutical and information technology businesses specializing in the healthcare sector, this session provides information about the public procurement process with the Italian government and export opportunities to Italy for the healthcare and information technology sectors. Additionally, information about international collaborations and local procurement opportunities will be presented by Broward Health. This also includes a “Meet & Greet” with experts from Italy in the public procurement sector.

Get Certified

Broward County is buying! OESBD is recruiting firms for certification in business categories that provide goods and services where few firms are currently certified. Learn more and find out if your business can benefit from doing County business.

Once you get certified as a County Business Enterprise (CBE), a Small Business Enterprise (SBE), or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) learn how to take full advantage of your newfound status at the “You’re Certified: Now What?” session set for Wednesday, February 24, from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development located at 115 S. Andrews Ave., Room 302, Fort. Lauderdale, FL. This session will help new and previously certified firms develop a strategy to maximize their small business certifications and explore new opportunities.

Have your sights on Federal certification? The OESBD is also hosting a special session called “Completing Your Federal Certification Application,” set for Wednesday, February 10, from 3 p.m. t 4:30 p.m. at the OESBD offices in Fort Lauderdale. Learn how to complete a small business program certification application for your firm. Broward County certification team leaders will guide you through the step-by-step process to help you submit a complete application with all requested information and documentation to minimize processing time.

Get Protected

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering drought assistance for qualified small businesses. The SBA has approved an Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program for areas of South Florida, including Broward County, impacted by the extreme drought as of July 7, 2015. Completed loan applications can be filed until March 15, 2016.

Give Back

Make sure your small business is contributing positively to the local economy by providing employment to The Broward County Workforce Investment Program. The Broward County Board of County Commissioners established the program to encourage local economic development by increasing potential employment opportunities for the economically disadvantaged and hard-to-hire in connection with County-funded projects of at least $500,000 in annual payments. Through the program, contractors are encouraged to work with CareerSource Broward, the Florida Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and their contract partners as a first source for the recruitment and possible employment of employees for work on County-funded projects.

Teen MLK Poetry Workshop in Sunrise

Reverend King’s dream is still unfilled, but there’s hope
Martin Luther King Jr

Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. has left a long legacy for the generations to follow. But, perhaps overlooked under the iconic marches and landmark legislations, is Dr. King’s legacy as a scribe – how he used words to both conjure understanding, empathy and justice.

The upcoming “Write Your Dream” poetry workshop for teens seeks to continue this legacy for the next generation, just in time for the MLK Day celebrations in the City of Sunrise. The fun, free, all-day session is set for Monday, January 18, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom at the Sunrise Civic Center. Students age 13 to 19 are invited to participate in the creative and intensive writing workshop that integrates the literary arts and civic responsibility. There is no cost to participate, but pre-registration by tomorrow, January 13, is required. Visit www.sunrisefl.gov/mlk for a registration packet or call (954) 747-4662.

The workshop also includes a community screening of Ava DuVernay’s award-winning 2014 film, “Selma,” starting 1 p.m. at the Sunrise Civic Center Theatre. The film tells the story of how the revered leader and visionary Dr. King, along with his brothers and sisters in the civil rights movement, prompted change that forever altered history. “Selma” is rated PG-13. Seating is limited: Four free general admission tickets per family are available for pickup in advance. Call (954) 747-4646.

EDITORIAL: Community needs its own financial institution for a prosperous future

Jamaican investors celebrated a recent Bloomberg report showing that the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) has the highest growth rate in the world for 2015. Such numbers reveal a thriving Jamaican business sector and a viable emerging economy. But, though improving accessibility to the market for foreign investors did much to boast growth, the JSE still saw low engagement from the Diaspora – nowhere near what our community’s share of the market could be.

Many in our community have not taken advantage of investing in Jamaica through the JSE. The lack of participation also hints at a broader problem – the low number of savings and investment portfolios in our community

Granted, it’s difficult for the majority of the Diaspora to invest or save when, according to a 2014 survey, disposable income averages less than 5 percent. This hardly leaves sufficient excess funds to save or invest. However, the same survey shows a large percentage of the community spending heavily on unnecessary consumption goods, made evident by high credit card balances, which severely minimize the ability to save.

Some people may argue that interest rates offered by banks and other financial institutions in South Florida are so low, that it does not encourage savings or investment. However, the Diaspora risks weakening its empowerment if it’s not accumulating significant investment capital, particularly capital that can contribute to the expansion and viability of its business sector.

It’s disappointing that after some 45 years of our community’s steady growth to over 350,000 residents, the community does not own a major financial institution. Thanks to tight regulations set by the Florida Office of Financial Regulation, there are major challenge in establishing a community bank owned and operated by the Jamaican Diaspora. Fewer community banks have opened in South Florida since 2010 – but the window has not been closed to future enterprises.

Despite signs that a significant percent of the community overextends themselves in the consumption of material goods, the Diaspora is far from being financially depressed. It shouldn’t be difficult to source investment capital for either a community bank or a credit union owned by the collective South Florida Diaspora.

Even without a steady investment source, several small businesses have developed in South Florida’s Jamaican community. Entrepreneurship is definitely not lacking. Their expansion, however, may be limited due to the lack of reliable investment sources. Although the region’s economy has seen significant improvement since the 2008 market crash, commercial and community banks still maintain tight restrictions on business loans. Enterprising individuals have initiated limited loan portfolios to help small business, but this source of funding is more the exception than the rule.

Jamaica’s Diaspora in South Florida is desperately in need of such initiatives. We need to find alternatives to the scarce capital available outside the community.

This proposed financial institution won’t materialize overnight. It will take time to ensure the institution meet state requirements, and is organized to minimize potential risks. But it would be encouraging to at least see deliberate planning begin to create such an institution. The failure of so many promising businesses in the community because of insufficient capital is frustrating and wasteful.

A viable Jamaican-owned financial institution within the Diaspora could grab the attention of Jamaican investors. Some of the excess capital generated by investors on the JSE, should it continue its buoyancy, could be redirected to the business community in the Diaspora.

The success of the JSE, its investors and listed businesses, is yet another example of the resilience of Jamaicans. This resilience needs to be displayed in the budding business community among the Jamaica’s Diaspora.

 

Jamaican mom in Delray pleads for help to find lost daughter

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

Delray Beach Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating 43-year-old resident Marie Hutchinson, who went missing last week. Mom Lilly Haye made an emotional plea for her daughter, who is mentally challenged. Hutchinson recently moved to South Florida from Jamaica and is not familiar with the area. She was last seen wearing a pink, short-sleeve shirt with white flowers, pink pants and black and white sneakers.

Guyanese security officials have partnered with the FBI and U.S. Homeland Security to curb loopholes leading to the surge of gold smuggling. Reports estimates that the country loses up to 60 percent of production to smuggling, with much of the gold passing through the Miami International Airport. Authorities say illegal trade is driven by better prices overseas, as well as tax dodging.

The St. Lucian Diaspora in America is beaming proudly after 16-year-old Lee Jean Jr. recently won his gold ticket to Hollywood on American Idol. Jean Jr., who lives in Bluffton, Noth Carolina, is named after his father Lee Jean, a St. Lucian from Mon Repos, who immigrated to the U.S. with his family.

Jamaican Harbor View FC Head Coach Ludlow Bernard says the possible migration of the team’s top players will not affect their pursuit of the 2016 Red Stripe Premiere League crown. The team has lost several players traveling away for trials or joining overseas teams. Most recently, the clubs top players Kevaughn Frater and Jorginho James left for South Florida to compete in the Major Soccer League trials.

What’s trending:

Saint International golden girl Tami Williams once again represents renowned design house Valentino. The Saint International model stars in the Italian label’s latest Spring/Summer 2016 campaign.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Scattered Showers in Broward County with a high of 68 and a low of 52. For Miami-Dade, scattered showers with a high of 67 and a low of 53.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. 

Barbados Health Ministry issues Zika virus warning

Minister of Health John Boyce

The Ministry of Health has warned the public to be on the alert in the event that the mosquito born Zika Virus reaches the British overseas territory.

According to the Health Ministry, in light of reports that the virus has been detected in neighbouring countries, persons should  take better care of their surroundings in order to control the spread of the virus.

“The Zika Virus is now present in the OECS, Martinique and Puerto Rico and considering the volume of travel between the BVI and these islands, there is a need for increased surveillance and heightened awareness of this virus and its impact on human health,” said Medical Officer of  Health, Dr Ronald Georges.

A release from the government stated  also that the laboratory at the public hospital  – the Peebles Hospital laboratory is ready for testing of samples from suspected cases, and has established procedures for use by other local health care providers.

The government said that in addition, the Surveillance Officers at the Environmental Health Division will continue to carry out inspections and monitor areas where mosquito breeding may be occurring or areas where suspected cases have been identified.

On Friday, the government of Barbados said it was closely monitoring eight suspected cases of the virus.

At a press conference , Health Minister John Boyce, said samples will be sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency in Trinidad and Tobago for confirmatory testing.

A regional alert was issued recently  by the Pan American Health Organisation. The Zika virus is transmitted by the same Aedes Aegypti mosquito that is also the insect vector for Dengue and Chikungunya and the symptoms are also very similar.

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