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Guyana passes death penalty in anti-terrorism bill

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, January 6, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Former owner of Dade Medical College, Ernesto Perez, has turned himself in to start serving his house arrest sentence, following a plea deal for illicit campaign funding. His arrest marked the final blow for the for-profit college laboring under financial investigations, eventually closing last October. The school was a popular training program for Caribbean immigrants.

Responding to the recent surge of the designer drug flakka in Broward County, a county grand jury has released a 60-page verdict recommending measures to combat the wave. The report includes a proposed ban on entire classes of designer drugs, as well as streamlined procedures for emergency responders and treatment counselors.

To support their fundraising efforts, the Ladies of Lawrence Row Legendary Foundation will be hosting their Lawrence Rowe Birthday Celebration, this Saturday, starting 9 pm at Waterfalls Restaurant & Lounge in Tamarac. Entertainment includes music by local DJ Shalamar, as well as a surprise guest artist. The foundation was founded by the record-breaking Jamaican cricketer Lawrence Rowe.

In Sports, Trinidadian sprinter Machel Cedenio has been named the 2015 Sportsman of the Year by the T&T Olympic Committee. Cedenio, who trains with Orlando-based coach Launce Brauman of PURE Athletics, received the award in a special ceremony yesterday in Port-of-Spain. Cedenio won gold in the men’s 400 meters last year at the Diamond League in Stockholm.

What’s trending:

Guyana’s national assembly has passed an anti-terrorism bill enforcing the death penalty on anyone found guilty of an act of terrorism. Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan argued that the legislation is necessary to ensure Guyana does not become a haven for terrorists.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 71 and a low of 61. For Miami-Dade, thunderstorms with a high of 70 and a low of 61.

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

T&T sprinter named 2015 Sportsman of the Year by T&T Olympic Committee

Trinidadian sprinter Machel Cedenio has been named the 2015 Sportsman of the Year by the T&T Olympic Committee.

Cedenio, who trains with Orlando-based coach Launce Brauman of PURE Athletics, received the award in a special ceremony yesterday in Port-of-Spain. Cedenio won gold in the men’s 400 meters last year at the Diamond League in Stockholm.

The honour was bestowed upon the 20-year-old at the 18th Annual Awards Ceremony held at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, Port-of-Spain, on Tuesday.

EDITORIAL: Key goals this year for Caribbean-American community

As the public awaits the anticipated November presidential elections, many members of our community do not have the privilege of participating. Despite this, our community can play a key role in campaigning for the issues affecting our community. Even if they do not have the right to vote, it is important to use whatever influence available to ensure candidates address these key issues.

In former elections, national security wasn’t ranked as a top issue for the Caribbean-American community. However, the perennial threat of terrorism from internal and external sources make it imperative for candidates seeking election. But it is important that the community does not live in an environment of fear, as this has the potential to impede the community’s general progress.

The community shouldn’t only be concerned about threats from terrorists, but also about crime, especially the surge of gun violence affecting the youth in our community. Some South Florida neighborhoods are more vulnerable to the impact of crime than others, but it’s necessary that state and national policies are adapted to counter the spread of crime and protect citizens.

Related to the eradication of crime is the fair enforcement of the law to every resident, irrespective of class or race. It is essential that elected national and local officials soon reveal plans to remove one of the worst scourges of recent years – unwarranted abuse from law enforcement officers. The repetition of these abuses has in some instances created an unfortunate breach between communities and law enforcement, which must be bridged. The community depends on law enforcement, but law enforcement must be sensitive to the characteristics and needs of the community to earn the community’s respect. This issue is of utmost priority.

Also the community needs laws to be amended and implemented to ensure courts impart justice impartially. In the recent past, too often has justice been unfairly skewed depending on one’s race, class, or religion. The community expects and should vote only for those who stand for impartial justice.

The state of the general economy still remains a major issue for every community. Currently, the nation’s and Florida’s economy is vastly improved compared to 2008, but the benefits of this improved economy are yet to trickle down to most residents. Although more people are in jobs, several are still not earning a living wage that enables them to maintain a decent standard of living. Americans, including South Floridians, cannot exist on the current minimum wage. The community should elect officials that are sensitive to the need for residents to earn salaries that remove them from the periphery of poverty. There is sufficient economic evidence demonstrating that raising the minimum wage won’t cost jobs, or close businesses, but can actually help expand the economy.

Another potent issue for our community is immigration reform. It’s important to keep abreast of candidates’ differing policy on immigration, to determine whether they plan to reform laws that address the status of law abiding, tax-paying undocumented immigrants, and laws conducive to legal immigrants and others planning to migrate to the U.S. legally.

While the Obama administration has succeeded, against tremendous opposition, to provide communities with affordable health insurance and access to healthcare, opponents are determined to remove this benefit if permitted. This cannot be allowed. Community healthcare is a right, not a privilege. It’s important voters carefully assess which candidates best assure this privilege.

There are several other issues, including access to affordable housing, improvements in race relations, affordable college education, and a reform of Florida’s property insurance policies. One does not need to be able to vote to convey to the relevant candidates the need to positively address the critical issues that affect their personal lives, and their community’s.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dade Medical College owner begins house arrest sentence

Former owner of Dade Medical College, Ernesto Perez, has turned himself in to start serving his house arrest sentence, following a plea deal for illicit campaign funding.

His arrest marked the final blow for the for-profit college laboring under financial investigations, eventually closing last October. The school was a popular training program for Caribbean immigrants.

As part of a plea deal with the state, perjury charges were dropped against Perez in exchange for his guilty plea to the other charges

He was fitted with a GPS ankle monitor to serve his 60-day house arrest sentence as part of a plea deal with prosecutors. He will also serve three years of probation and pay a $150,000 fine.

Perez was facing up to six years in prison had he not taken the plea deal.

CTO declares 2016 “The Year of Romance in the Caribbean”

The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) has declared 2016 as the Year of Romance in the Caribbean.

The organisation says with the launch of this new initiative, the CTO and its member countries and hotels will highlight the region as the leading choice for a romantic vacation for consumers and travel planners selling the region.

 “With over 30 destinations to choose from, the Caribbean region provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway highlighted by pristine beaches, secluded accommodations, an abundance  of land and water activities, top-notch spa services and personalized attention that meets the needs of the most discerning traveler,” said Hugh Riley, secretary general of CTO.

“The Year of Romance in the Caribbean will spotlight the romantic features of our region beyond the traditional times of year such as Valentine’s Day. A romantic theme is easily embraced by all of our member destinations 365 days a year,” Riley noted.

Throughout the year, CTO in cooperation with its private sector partner the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association; will assist member countries with ideas which can be implemented around the theme of romance to appeal to consumers, travel agents and tour operators.

Some of the areas of focus will include first or second marriages and the renewal of vows, the most romantic locations to “pop the question” or say “I do” and inviting celebrity couples to get married in the Caribbean.

The campaign will be promoted through social media and traditional media channels and will create opportunities for travelers and vacation planners to share their experiences and ideas of a romantic Caribbean vacation throughout 2016.

Brandpointcontent.com

Haiti’s election chief sets date for electoral run-off

Head of the Provisial Electoral Council (CEP), Pierre-Louis Opont says the date for the presidential and legislative runoff votes will be January 24.

Following a meeting late Tuesday with other members of the CEP, Opont, in a letter to President Michel Martellly said he can “guarantee” that the council will be able to organise the final election round, a week later.

This anonouncement follows uncertainty that was voiced by the CEP in a letter that was sent to Martley on Monday.

In that letter the CEP said more time was needed to organise the runoffs and 12 days of preparation “will not be sufficient”.

Last week, Martelly had announced last week that the elections council was warning that the runoffs must be held by January 17 at the latest to fulfill the constitutional mandate of inaugurating a new president February 7.

The run-off was scheduled to take place two weeks ago, but was jettisoned after opposition factions alleged fraud during the first round in October.

A special commission was asked to investigate the electoral process following widespread street protests.

In his speech, Martelly, who is constitutionally prohibited from seeking re-election, urged nationals respect the election rules and go to the polls.

The opposition is demanding an independent review of the late October first round of voting, which it insists was rigged in favor of government-backed candidate – banana exporter, Jovenel Moise.

Moise will go up against the former head of a construction company, Jude Celestin, who came second in the first round of voting.

New exhibit gives intimate look at President Obama

As the United States 44th president, Barack Obama must be one of the most photographed men in the world, but few news bulletin photos can give and intimate insight into what life must be like behind the presidential seal.

President Barack Obama | The Exhibition, is a new show seeking to give a more intimate look at the president’s life, collecting iconic images specially selected by the Chief White House Photographer and Director of the White House Photo Office, Pete Souza. The collection of photographs covers many of the historic moments captured during President Barack Obama’s two terms in office.

“This exhibition and its timing have provided a unique reflection of the City of Miramar and the nation in time for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black History Month celebrations,” said Stephen Kantrowitz, Director of Cultural Affairs. “It reflects the many contributions African-Americans have made and continue to make in this country.”

The exhibit opens on January 14, and runs to February 29, at the Ansin Family Art Gallery, located in the Miramar Cultural Center. A community program will also be held on Wednesday, January 20, starting 7 p.m. in the Miramar Cultural Center – on the day marking exactly seven years since the inaugural date of President Barack Obama. The program is free and open to the public; however, tickets must be secured to attend at the center’s website.

The exhibit will also acknowledge the historic election of City of Miramar Mayor Wayne Messame who last year became the city’s first African-American mayor. The show will also include numerous photos highlighting Messam’s historic first year in office.

JA report to expose bad gas chain

A report from the committee that was established to probe the distribution of bad gas, will be made public.

Energy Minister Phillip Paulwell made announcement in response to calls from the main opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the public for the names of the entities implicated to be disclosed.

The committee has been mandated to submit its first set of findings by the end of this month.

Last week, 17 gas stations were ordered to close pumps selling the bad gas that reportedly contained what is called ‘unwashed gum’.

Paulwell appointed the Committee last Thursday and met with JGRA members on Monday morning.

He said once he report is made public, the members may issue statements, updates and comments on any related issue.

Meanwhile, the JGRA has been instructed to serve claims on petroleum marketing companies to recover losses they incurred due to the sale of  contaminated fuel.

The order was issued on Monday during an emergency meeting of  the Association.

“The JGRA can confirm that we have been instructed by some of the affected dealers to start the process of filing claims against the marketing companies that were supplying products.”

He said the Association is considering all the options given the losses incurred by the gas station operators since the closure of  the pumps nearly a week ago.

Last week, Paulwell ordered 17 gas stations across the country to shut off their pumps after tests showed they had been selling contaminated gas, and instructed the Major Organized and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) has been instructed to investigate further.

The minister said that legal counsel had advised that the names of petrol stations and suppliers implicated in the investigations should remain classified.

“The investigations are ongoing and as a responsible Minister of Government it would be unwise for me to make statements before the completion of due process and in a manner that would negatively impact the trade and the businesses of law-abiding players in the industry,” Paulwell said.

The Bureau of Standards has assured that it will maintain its close and rigorous scrutiny of the entire chain of activity in the distribution and trade and enforce measures designed to maintain optimum standards.

6 kitchen tips to keep mornings moving

The average American mother has a bazillion things to do every morning, and only two hands — and limited time — to get it all done. Finding some tricks and tactics to make the morning go smoothly can help ensure you accomplish everything, squeeze in a satisfying breakfast, and get the family out the door on time.

Here are six smart ways to save time in the morning and get the day off to a good start:

1. Work ahead — Anything you can do the night before is one less thing you have to do in the morning. Generally, moms have more time at night after the kids are in bed, so shave minutes off your morning tasks by doing basic things — like choosing outfits, organizing backpacks and athletic bags, and even pre-packing non-perishables in lunch bags — the night before.

2. Know what’s coming — Use smartphone apps to check the weather forecast and traffic reports so you can be prepared. A quick look at the next day’s forecast before going to bed can help you know how to dress everyone, and setting your phone to receive real-time driving alerts can let you know if you need to leave the house a little earlier to beat the traffic.

3. Choose a speedy, wholesome and satisfying breakfast — You may not have time for a hearty feast, but skipping breakfast altogether is a bad idea. You need that boost of energy and satisfaction in the morning to help get the day started right. Look for wholesome options that are easy to eat on the go.

4. Build organizational habits — Hunting for car keys, your purse, running shoes, or your kids’ backpacks can add critical minutes to your morning schedule. Designate spots in your house for important morning items — such as a hook next to the door for your car keys — and return those items to those spots each time you’re done using them.

5. De-stress with some stretching — It may be difficult to fit in a run or workout every morning, but you can still savor the benefits of some mild physical activity. Stretches can relax your mind and loosen muscles, and you can do them virtually anywhere. Lift yourself onto your tip toes and rock back on your heels to stretch calf muscles while you’re standing at the counter or waiting for your kids to get ready. Do some gentle head rolls to ease neck strain while you’re sitting in the car at a stoplight or waiting in traffic.

6. Keep kids moving with music — Children may not feel motivated by a traditional timer, or by you verbally counting down the minutes for them. Instead, try making a playlist of their favorite songs that lasts exactly as long as they have to get ready in the morning. Help them learn that by the end of the first song, teeth must be brushed. When the third song is over, everyone should have backpacks and their favorite Quick Starts in hand and be ready to walk out the door.

From wholesome on-the-go breakfast snacking to easy stress-relievers and better organization, it’s possible to manage the hectic pace of every morning — and get your day started smoothly.

Brandpointcontent.com

Chris Gayle gets in hot water for asking out journalist live on air

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

Jamaican health Minister Horace Dalley is hailing the Diaspora for supporting the public health sector. Speaking in response to this past weekend’s successful Shaggy and Friends concert fundraiser, where artistes among the diaspora such as Sean Kingston and Omi returned to perform, Minister Dalley says the community’s contribution made “tremendous difference to the quality of service hospitals deliver.”

Seeking to increase county police transparency among the public, the Broward Sheriff’s Office has launched their new police body camera pilot program, installing 100 deputies with the equipment. The agency is working on eventually expanding the program to all 1,400 road patrol officers.

The Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their first event of the year this Friday at the “Get in Gear for the New Year Business Mixer,” starting 6 pm at the Jerk Machine Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. Members will have the chance to explore business opportunities for the upcoming year.

In sports, 21-year-old Jamaican Reggae Boyz midfielder Jorginho James heads to Ft. Lauderdale this Thursday to attend the Adidas Major League Soccer Combine at the Central Broward Regional Park. So far, James is the only recruit from the recent MLS Caribbean Combine to proceed to the U.S. showcase, where several MLS team recruiters will be searching for fresh talent.

What’s trending:

Jamaican Cricketer Chris Gayle has gotten himself into hot water after he asked a sports journalist on a date during a live TV broadcast in Australia. Australia Big Bash league head Anthony Everard called the move “disrespectful,” and said he will speak to Gayle and his team, the Melbourne Renegades, about the incident.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 72 and a low of 66. For Miami-Dade, scattered showers with a high of 73 and a low of 66. For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. 

Celebrate MLK Day at Celebration of Unity Multicultural Festival

Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Broward County with music, dance, art, storytelling, and food from all over the world at this year’s Celebration of Unity Multicultural Festival at Huizenga Plaza starting at 11 am.

Other activities include the MLKCC Day of Service project providing educational supplies for homeless children, and performances from the Fund for Racial Progress in America’s recent Shine A Light concert. Individuals can also participate in the taping for a documentary, “A Penny for Your Thoughts on Race.”

JA USA Chamber of Commerce to host first event of the new year

The Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their first event of the year this Friday at the “Get in Gear for the New Year Business Mixer,” starting 6 pm at the Jerk Machine Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale.

Members will have the chance to explore business opportunities for the upcoming year.

Healthy New Year at Miami Gardens Fair

The City of Miami Gardens gets set to start the year on the right foot, promoting wholesome and healthy living at the fourth annual free Health Fair, set for this Saturday, January 9th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Arlington Academy in Miami Gardens.

At this all-family affair, attendees have the chance to receive one-on-one health evaluations, including mini physicals, HIV & STD testing and dental presentations. You can also stock up on all the healthy goodies you need for the new year with complimentary health care gift bags. There will also be many fun activities for the children to keep them healthy and active all day long.

“We are here to serve the community,” say Aundrea Blye, the Principal and Director of Arlington Academy. “Healthy living has always been a mantra that we live by at Arlington Academy, so annually we provide an opportunity for the community-at-large to gain knowledge on the keys to live a healthy life for free.”

This event is presented in partnership with the City of Miami Gardens, as part of their healthy living initiative. Vice Mayor Felicia Robinson will also serve as the keynote speaker.

How to say goodbye to skin imperfections

It was once believed that costly doctor visits were the only way to get health advice. Now, thanks to websites like WebMD and health.com, Americans are only a few clicks away from valuable medical information. Millions of people are flocking to online resources to learn about health conditions, with some of the most commonly searched topics being related to skin concerns.

Acne is known to be the most common skin disorder in the U.S., affecting 40-50 million people, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Further research has shown that up to 95 percent of people with acne may go on to suffer from scarring. Acne scars are disfiguring and can make sufferers feel isolated, ashamed, or embarrassed, which is why an educational and supportive online community for these individuals is of growing importance.

Here are five ways to say goodbye to their most hated skin imperfection:

1. A holistic approach. Those who live with acne scars know the toll they can take on one’s self-esteem. Recognizing that these scars go deeper than just the skin on your face, “A Scar Free Me” offers support to address the many social and emotional issues that arise from scarring, as well as practical measures to eliminate the physical effects of scarring.

2. Ask the experts. With a team of medical doctors, dermatologists and self-esteem experts ready to answer questions associated with acne scarring, community members can get real answers to a wide range of questions — from relationships to social anxiety to daily skin care.

3. A community message board. This is an opportunity for people to share their story and connect with others who have similar experiences. Through making these connections, many community members find relief from the isolation that so often results from scarring. The support network that develops is a vital component to building self-esteem and restoring the confidence that acne scars can rob people of.

4. Treatment options. As a hub for both expert advice and individual sharing, “A Scar Free Me” is a place where a lot of new treatment options are discussed. One that has recently been creating a lot of buzz among the community members is Bellafill. The community’s experts noted Bellafill is the only filler on the market approved by the FDA for the correction of facial acne scars.

5. Confidence Corner Blog. Written by the same team of experts that answer the questions of community members, this blog covers common struggles and offers real-world advice for helping people with acne scarring improve their lives.

Brandpointcontent.com

Chris Gayle gets in hot water for asking out journalist live on air

Jamaican Cricketer Chris Gayle has gotten himself into hot water after he asked a sports journalist on a date during a live TV broadcast in Australia.

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

Australia Big Bash league head Anthony Everard called the move “disrespectful,” and said he will speak to Gayle and his team, the Melbourne Renegades, about the incident.

Renegades chief executive Stuart Coventry reacted by fining Gayle $10,000 Australian dollars

JA Health Minister hails Diaspora for supporting health sector

Jamaican health Minister Horace Dalley is hailing the Diaspora for supporting the public health sector.

Speaking in response to this past weekend’s successful Shaggy and Friends concert fundraiser, where artistes among the diaspora such as Sean Kingston and Omi returned to perform, Minister Dalley says the community’s contribution made “tremendous difference to the quality of service hospitals deliver.”

He said that in every public-health facility in Jamaica, the support from the diaspora and corporate Jamaica, and ordinary individuals and churches, has made a tremendous difference to the quality of service hospitals deliver.

Shaggy, an internationally acclaimed artiste, led a band of entertainers that took over the lawns of Jamaica House, Kingston on Saturday night for the 2016 instalment of the Shaggy & Friends benefit concert.

The proceeds from the concert’s 5th staging, organised by the Shaggy Make A Difference Foundation, will go towards completing the first diagnostic Catheterisation Laboratory at the Bustamante Hospital for Children.

Broward Sheriff’s office launches police body camera pilot program

Seeking to increase county police transparency among the public, the Broward Sheriff’s Office has launched their new police body camera pilot program, installing 100 deputies with the equipment.

The agency is working on eventually expanding the program to all 1,400 road patrol officers.

Hallandale Beach Police Department became the first city in Broward County to wear body cameras, as officers received equipment last month.

Hallandale Beach equipped 28 out of 100 officers with body cameras in the pilot program’s first year. Former Lauderhill Police Chief Andrew Smalling says body cameras have become crucial policing tools, providing the officer’s perspective during encounters.

5 US athletes with Caribbean roots

It’s almost that time of the year – Basketball season! With the NBA season about to start, trades finalized, and with players reporting to training camp and the season opener set, the National Weekly looks at a few of the NBA players with Caribbean heritage.

Roy Hibbert

Born in Queens, NYC, to a Jamaican father and a Trinidadian mother,  Indiana Pacers center Roy Hibbert has chosen to represent Jamaica in international basketball competition. 

Sanya Richards-Ross

This U.S. Olympian was born in Jamaica and started running at the age of 7. She holds five Olympic gold medals including gold in the 2012 Summer Olympics in the 400 metres and also as part of the 4×400 meters relay at the 2004 Games, the 2008 Games, and the 2012 games.

Carmelo Anthony

Though his Puerto Rican father, Carmelo Anthony Sr., died when he was only two, Carmelo Jr. has reconnected with his roots in recent years, contributing to community rebuilding projects in the island.

Tim Duncan

5 time NBA champion Tim Duncan was born and raised in Christiansted, a town in Saint Croix, one of the main islands composing the US Virgin Islands. Duncan has been honored with the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor, the highest award bestowed by the Virgin Islands territorial government, and has been celebrated in several “Tim Duncan Day” ceremonies.

Al Harford

Haiti’s first round vote ‘stained by irregularities’

The commission appointed to investigate the results of the October 25 presidential and legislative elections, says the poll was “stained by irregularities.

However it has given the go ahead for the second round run off scheduled for January 17.

The commission has also recommended that legal action be taken against poll workers and others who were involved in fraud.

In the upcoming run off  for a successor to President Michel Martelly – banana exporter Jovenel Moise, who won 33 per cent of the vote in the first round , will face ex-state construction company head Jude Celestin, who came second with 25 per cent.

Martelly, who is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election, postponed the run-off vote that was due to be held on December 27 after street protests against fraud in the first round turned violent.

The opposition alleged widespread fraud in the presidential and legislative vote in October.

In a speech  on Friday, to mark Haiti’s independence, Martelly called on Haitians “to vote en masse, like they should, for the person who best represents them.”

Supreme Court asked not to review case on Obama Amnesty

Over the Christmas holiday, the State of Texas filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court, requesting that the court deny the Obama Administration’s request to review the case.

The Justice Department had filed a request for review with the Supreme Court recently, in order to lift the hold placed on the programs by a Texas Federal judge, so that the President’s Executive Orders on Immigration could go forward and be implemented throughout the U.S.. Executive Action Programs being blocked by the Texas judge’s Order include the expanded DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) for Dreamers and new DAPA (Deferred Action for Parents of Americans) programs, which would benefit an estimated 5 million immigrants, most of whom are the parents of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

Under these programs, DACA and DAPA immigrants would be eligible for Work Permits, Driver’s Licenses, Social Security, Earned Income Tax Credit, unemployment insurance, Medicare and other benefits.

City of Sunrise to come alive at A Night of the Arts

On January 17, at 6 pm, the city of Sunrise will come alive at A Night of the Arts in Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr at the Sunrise Civic Center.

The free event will feature live music by the Hope Band and the Valerie Tyson Band, along with performances by youth poets from the Jason Taylor Foundation’s Omari Hardwick bluapple Poetry Network.

Attendees will also be able to view paintings by Charles Mills, complemented by historical items on loan from the African American Research Library and Cultural Center, and the Old Dillard Museum.

There will also be live music in the Rotunda, and a performance of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

For more information or to claim tickets, visit the Civic enter Box Office.

A perfect post-holiday smoothie

Christmas and New Years is one of those days that you want to let it all hang out, and you should! Over the next few days, get your sweat on, and fuel your body with this delicious detox smoothie.

The coconut water is hydrating and will help replace electrolytes lost during a Thanksgiving booze fest. Brazil nuts contain tons of magnesium, which help alkalize the body and can even help relieve constipation and pineapple contains bromelain, which is an enzyme that will help digest any leftover turkey.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup coconut water
  • ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 scoop Vanilla Vega One protein powder
  • 3 Brazil nuts
  • 1 cup kale
  • ½ small banana
  • 1 cup frozen pineapple
  • 4-5 ice cubes

Instructions

Place all ingredients into your blender and blend until smooth. Add water for desired consistency.

Brandpointcontent.com

Food for the Poor helps release over 100 prisoners for the new year

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, January 4, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

102 prisoners from Jamaica, Guyana, Haiti and Honduras face a fresh start for 2016, as they were released from prison thanks to locally-based Jamaican charity, Food for the Poor. As part of their Prison Ministry program, the organization seeks to combat prison overcrowding by paying outstanding fees for non-violent offenders.

6 people were suddenly displaced this New Year’s weekend after an early morning fire broke out in a townhouse in Miami Gardens. 2 suffered minor injuries from jumping from the 2nd story to escape the flames Reports say authorities are regarding the fire as suspicious, and has detained one of the victims for questioning.

Legendary Rapper Nas has just been confirmed as the latest addition to the line-up of the much-anticipated 23rd annual 9 Mile Music Festival, set for February 27 in downtown Miami. The concert, held every year to honor the memory of Bob Marley, will also feature performances from his sons Stephan Marley, Damian Marley and Julian Marley.

In sports, founders of the Atlanta Georgia Relays are seeking to recruit more Jamaican schools to participate in their international meet in May. Co-founder Maurice Smith, a former Jamaican Olympian and Calabar high alum, says the meet will provide crucial exposure for Jamaica’s young athletes in the US, expanding their stage beyond the Penn Relays.

What’s trending:

Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller surprises comedians Ity and Fancy Cat on stage with a surprise appearance at Shaggy and Friends concert.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Mostly sunny in Broward County with a high of 71 and a low of 56. For Miami-Dade, partly cloudy with a high of 71 and a low of 54.

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

 

What you can do to protect yourself from card fraud in 2016

You may have already received your new credit or debit card equipped with a microchip. If you haven’t received your new chip card, you most likely will by the time your card expires. The EMV chip technology is intended to help reduce debit and credit card fraud, and thanks to a collaboration between America’s payment networks and card-issuers, you’ll see many more merchants using EMV-equipped card readers over the coming months.

Chip-enabled cards store the same basic information that’s already in the magnetic strip on the back of your card, such as the card number and expiration date. They add a layer of fraud protection by producing a single-use code to validate every transaction. While EMV technology is intended to reduce card fraud, it’s still important to be aware of how fraud happens, what you can do to prevent it and what your card-issuer does to help protect you.

“Fraud prevention is a partnership between cardholders and the bank,” said Pam Codispoti, president of Chase Consumer Branded Cards. “By working together, we can help customers keep their accounts safer and more secure.”

Chase offers some tips to help you stay alert to fraud while you holiday shop and in the New Year:

* Keep your contact information, including phone number and email address, up to date so the card issuer can contact you quickly if they detect signs of fraud on your account.

* Review your card agreement to be sure you understand what anti-fraud measures the issuer takes. For example, Chase uses specialized monitoring tools to keep an eye on your account 24/7.

* If your card company or bank offers it, sign up for account alerts to monitor your finances and keep your accounts safe. Most issuers will allow you to choose to be alerted to any unusual account activity via text, email or phone call.

* Review your statements every month to ensure all charges are accurate and authorized by you. If you spot a charge you don’t recognize, contact the card issuer or bank immediately. With the shift to greater use of EMV technology, if fraud occurs on your account and you have a chip-enabled card, the merchant will be responsible for the costs in most situations. Also, banks like Chase offer zero liability protection — you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.

* Monitor your credit reports. Although you’re entitled to a free report from all three major credit bureaus once a year, checking your report more often can help catch signs of fraud earlier.

* Opt for secure paperless billing. Theft of paper documents, such as from your mailbox or trash, is still a top way fraudsters obtain information. By going paperless, you eliminate an opportunity for someone to steal your statement and get your account information.

* Switch to secure online or mobile payments to help protect your account information. Online payments add layers of security to your transaction and can help ensure you never miss a payment.

* When using your card in a store, never allow the card out of your sight. If you have to enter a PIN number to use the card, be aware of who’s standing around you and shield the keypad from view when you type in your PIN.

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Haiti’s postponed presidential run-off to take place on January 17

Haitian President Michel Martelly has announced January 17 as the date for the postponed presidential run-off to choose his successor.

The run-off was scheduled to be held last week but was postponed as opposition factions alleged fraud during the first round of voting in October.

In a speech  on Friday, to mark Haiti’s independence, Martelly called on Haitians “to vote en masse, like they should, for the person who best represents them.”

He said the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has warned that in order to fulfill the constitutional mandate of inaugurating a president by February 7, the runoff must be held by the latest, January 17.

Last month , the Provisional Election Council (CEP)  postponed the December  27 presidential runoff to allow a five-member commission to address allegations of multiple voting and ballot tampering.

The opposition is demanding an independent review of the late October first round of voting which it insists was rigged in favor of government-backed candidate – banana exporter, Jovenel Moise.

Moise will go up against the former head of a construction company, Jude Celestin, who came second in the first round of voting.

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