Home Blog Page 1503

Lauderdale Lakes to host two days of community service events for the holidays

On December 12th & December 19th, 2015, join Phillips & Phillips, P.A. Attorneys-At- Law and the City of Lauderdale Lakes Vice-Mayor Dr. Eileen Rathery as they celebrate the season of giving by hosting two days of community service events entitled “A Day of Service” and “Verry Merry Holiday Fair.”

Both charitable events are aimed to spread the holiday spirit with joyful residents and offering a helping-hand to local families in the community.

The celebration will begin with A Day of Service on Saturday, December 12th, 10 a.m.– 3p.m. Friends, family and colleagues will gather as they provide the gift of giving by volunteering to assist in beautifying selected deserving Lauderdale Lakes resident’s homes. The renovation will include, freshly painting the exterior of the houses and repairing their landscaping.

To conclude the celebration of service, Verry Merry Holiday Fair will take place on Saturday, December 19, 2015, 1 p.m.–6 p.m., at Vincent Torres Memorial Park. Special guest and celebrity judges include renowned Jamaican native’s actor Paul Campbell and recording artist Pluto Shervington.

This free holiday fair will feature Community Resource Information, Health Screenings, Free Immigration Legal Consultation, Employment Information, Soccer Match: Miami United –vs- Lauderdale Lakes Victory, Half  Time Show, Live Performances, Santa Kids Village and more.

Tips to keep your family safe during the holidays

The holidays bring lots of opportunities for family fun and great gatherings, with home-cooked feasts, bright lights, decorations and evergreen trees in the living room. But be sure to take a few small precautions to keep your family safe during all the activity.

In the kitchen:

  1. Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stove. 
  2. Keep children away from the stove, hot food, hot liquids, steam and cooking splash.
  3. Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags. 
  4. Keep knives, matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children. 
  5. Avoid dangling cords from an electric knife, coffee maker or other appliances over the counter within easy reach of a child. 
  6. Test smoke alarms.

Inside and outside the house: 

  1. Find a freshly cut tree, as they are more resistant to catching fire. Keep it watered and away from flames.
  2. Discard holiday light strings with frayed cords, cracked lamp holders or loose connections.
  3. Make sure electrical items such as light strings, extension cords, spotlights, etc. are certified by UL.
  4. Keep outdoor light electrical connections off the ground and away from metal objects. Use insulated tape or plastic clips to fasten them.
  5. Use an outdoor timer to switch lights on and off. Wait until 7 p.m. to avoid peak electricity hours. Turn them off when you leave home or go to bed.
  6. Use only one extension cord for each need. Never string them together.
  7. Don’t use your gas fireplace if the glass panel is removed, cracked or broken.

Sources: CSA International, National Fire Protection Agency

A taste of Venezuela: Chicken and grape arepas

For an international vibe at mealtime, try arepas. A Venezuelan specialty, arepas were traditionally eaten as bread. The dough, made from a mix of white cornmeal, water and salt, is pressed into a patty shape, then baked, fried or grilled. Today, an “arepa” actually refers to the signature Venezuelan sandwich that uses the corn bread as a base, that’s then split open and filled with different ingredients.

Arepas are satisfying, simple to make, and fun to eat. Best of all, they inspire creativity – arepas can be stuffed with any type of filling. Add even more global flair to arepas’ South American roots by incorporating a bit of Greek flavor with shredded chicken, smoked paprika, feta cheese and crunchy grapes. It’s a deliciously global combo.

Chicken and grape arepas

Ingredients:

2 cups arepa flour (pre-cooked masa, also called masarepa, which can be found online and in Latin specialty grocers, as well as some supermarkets)

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons safflower or grapeseed oil (divided)

1 cup shredded cooked chicken

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 scallions, thinly sliced

Salt and pepper

1 cup sliced red and green California grapes

1/2 cup crumbled feta

Directions:

Preheat an oven to 250F. In a large bowl, combine the arepa flour and salt. Stir in 2 1/2 cups warm water and stir until smooth. Let stand five minutes. Knead the dough lightly and divide into eight pieces. Roll into a ball and then flatten to 1/2-inch thickness.

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the arepas, cover and cook until golden (about six to eight minutes.) Turn and cook uncovered, another six to eight minutes, adding more oil if needed. Transfer to a sheet pan and put in oven to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining arepas.

Once the arepas are cooked, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the skillet over high heat. Add the chicken, paprika, scallions, salt and pepper to taste and cook until chicken is slightly crispy and browned, about 5 minutes. To serve, split the arepas and stuff with chicken, grapes and feta.

Makes four servings.

Nutrition information per serving: Calories 468; Protein 19 g; Carbohydrate 52 g; Total Fat 22 g (Saturated fat 5 g); 40% Calories from Fat; Cholesterol 53 mg; Sodium 680 mg; Fiber 4.5 g.

Brandpointcontent.com

JA political parties to refrain from using political paraphernalia

In the run up to a general election that is constitutionally due next year, both political parties, the ruling People’s National party (PNP) and the main opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), have agreed to refrain from using political paraphernalia as they continue on the campaign trail.

The decision was made on Wednesday during a meeting with Political Ombudsman Donna Parchment-Brown.

The meeting , which involved the General Secretaries of  both parties, followed concerns about the mounting of  flags in breach of  the Political Code of  Conduct.  

It was also  prompted by a recent incident in which two persons were killed in the central parish of St. Catherine. The police believe that their deaths were politically motivated .

Parchment Brown says it was recommended that the parties will not mount flags during the political campaign period.

“I am also being told that while people may enthusiastically put up flags in advance of  a meeting, generally to get them down, you have to pay people to take it down  so I really want to recommend that the taking down be planned as part of the putting up process.”

She added that certain limits were agreed in the event flags are mounted without authorization.

“They would like a certain amount of time to have the flags taken down  . If anybody without authority raises a flag in your colours, you should ensure that it is removed,” the Political Ombudsman said.

A general election is constitutionally due by December 28, 2016.

Superintendent Carvalho praises congressional leaders’ bipartisan efforts

Superintendent of Schools Alberto M. Carvalho praised the strong bipartisan efforts of congressional leaders in the reauthorization of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which was signed into law Thursday by President Barack Obama. 

 “I am grateful for the vision and leadership of our members of Congress, especially Rep. Frederica Wilson and Rep. Carlos Curbelo,” said Carvalho.  “Their tireless and bipartisan work on behalf of children will benefit urban education and create reasonable and equitable standards for measuring student learning gains and academic progress.”

The Every Student Succeeds Act represents an important step forward to improve the nation’s education system. Students across the nation will have the opportunity to receive a fair, even-handed and high-quality education, supporting efforts to close the achievement gap. While No Child Left Behind expected 100 percent proficiency for all students by 2014, ESSA gives states the authorization to identify their own goals to address proficiency on tests, English-language proficiency and graduation rates.

ESSA does not take a one-size-fits all approach and reduces the number of standardized tests administered each school year. The law maintains the annual testing requirement for Reading and Math in grades 3-8 and once in high school, and grade-span testing in Science. It also maintains subgroup reporting and a 95 percent testing requirement. States allowing opt-outs must still meet this requirement without excluding these students.

 Additionally, the law directs states to develop a differentiated accountability system for all schools and subgroups based on six key factors: 1) Proficiency; 2) Growth or another academic indicator; 3) Graduation rate for high school; 4) English language proficiency; 5) Other indicator(s) of student achievement and school success, and 6) 95 percent assessment participation. ESSA does not include Title I formula changes or portability provisions. 

 “This is a great day for students in Miami-Dade County as well as students across the nation,” said Carvalho. “Our nation’s leaders have taken bold steps toward fixing No Child Left Behind, building stronger schools and reassuring every child that they have the potential and now the opportunity to excel academically.”

Almost 600,000 Floridians have enrolled through the Health Insurance Marketplace

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) released new numbers showing that 598,279 Floridians have enrolled or re-enrolled in plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace during the first weeks of open enrollment, which includes November 1 through December 5.

Enroll America wants to encourage all Floridians who have not enrolled yet to take action and enroll by December 15 if they want their coverage to begin on New Year’s Day. For consumers who need to renew their coverage, December 15 is the deadline to choose a plan so they don’t experience any cap in coverage as the new year begins.

“With Florida once again leading all federally-facilitated marketplace states in enrollment, we are reminded that Floridians continue to want access to quality, affordable health insurance,” said Raymond Paultre, Florida State Director of Enroll America, “and the nearly 600,000 Floridians who enrolled or renewed their coverage so far will ring in the New Year with the peace of mind that comes from knowing they will not be one broken bone or illness away from financial ruin.

“But there is still a lot of work to be done. Uninsured Floridians have until December 15 to give themselves and their families the gift of health coverage starting in January. Enroll America and our partners are working to make sure Floridians are aware that there is free, unbiased application assistance available throughout the state, and that there is financial assistance available to make getting covered more affordable than ever.”

Maximiliano Schendfeld named NAIA All-American

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has announced the 2015 NAIA Men’s Soccer All-America teams on Tuesday. The NAIA All-America committee consists of the NAIA-Men’s Soccer Coaches Association Executive Committee, the National Championship Games Committee and four men’s soccer coaches—selected based on geography. Each team—first, second and third—consists of 11 members.

Maximiliano Schendfeld, The junior midfielder from Santiago, Chile was named as an Honorable Mention recipient. This is the first such honor for Schendfeld and the program. Schendfeld led the Lions in scoring 7 goals this past season.

Ambassador Thomas to pay key role between members of the diaspora and government

Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Ralph Thomas says he has prioritized his roll as the interface between the diaspora and the government through direct outreach between members of the diaspora and various organizations.

Ambassador Thomas who was addressing a breakfast meeting of heads of diaspora organizations in New York at the Door Restaurant in Queens said, “as interface between our government and our diaspora I will be bridging the gap with information and better communication and with being the spokesperson for our mutual interest.”

He added that he believes that this presents a better opportunity for dialogue and in this regard the Embassy of Jamaica will serve as interlocutor.

The ambassador told the over 150 participants that on assuming office, both Prime Minister the Most Honourable Portia Simpson Miller and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade the Honourable A.J. Nicholson instructed his to pay priority attention to the diaspora. He pointed out that since assuming office he has already visited and met with members of the diaspora in Seattle Washington, New Jersey, Connecticut and New York.

“Having lived and worked as a member of diaspora for over two decades and having shared many of the challenges and experiences that individuals go through there are a number of areas in which we will all have to work together to address,” said Ambassador Thomas. Among them he said are; immigration and deportation, economic empowerment of Jamaicans in the diaspora promoting cultural awareness especially among second and third generation Jamaicans, and the strengthening of the bonds between the Jamaican in the United States and citizens back home.

The ambassador added that he would like to see the diaspora feature as a centerpiece of our development and investment strategy and for the diaspora to understand how to connect with Jamaica in different ways and benefit from those opportunities that exist.

The breakfast meeting with various head of Jamaican organizations in New York was organized by the North East Advisory Board, which is chaired by Attorney Joan Pinnock. Also in attendance was Jamaica’s Council General to New York, Mr. Herman Lamont.

Ambassador Thomas who paid a three-day visit to New York met with members of the North East diaspora board, launched a toy drive to assist children in various children home and the Bustamante Children’s Hospital. He also delivered the keynote address at the 21st Anniversary Annual Scholarship Gala of the New York based Jamaica charity, Children of Jamaica Outreach, and attended church services at the Lenox Road Baptist Church in Brooklyn and the St. John’s United Methodist Church in Queens.

 

Westfield Broward Mall features first solo exhibit with artist Erin Basset

Committed to bringing culture to the community, the ever evolving Westfield Broward mall is pleased to announce its first solo artist exhibit at The Art Gallery at Westfield Broward with an opening reception on Thursday, December 10, 2016 from 6pm – 8pm. Fostering local talent, the exhibit will feature works by artist Erin Basset over a

6 week period.

 

 

Erin is a textile artist based in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Her artistic journey began with painting lessons in her grandmother’s garage at the age of 5, the gift of a camera at the age of 18 and the discovery of fabric at 28. Now, her inspiration comes from her fascination with the characteristics of silk. Her art is described as a fantasy world that is reminiscent of the coral reefs of her native South Florida. She has been an exhibiting artist since 2002 after graduating from the University of Florida with a BFA in Creative Photography and continued through her studies at the Savannah College of Art + Design, where she received her MFA in Textile Design.

 

Erin talks about her art: “I love taking simple items, like yards of silk fabric, metal washers, glass beads and rubber bands to create sculptures that are unexpected, fascinating and unique. Using Shibori, smocking, weaving, photography, and digital printing, I create three-dimensional sculptures in fabric juxtaposed next to two-dimensional images. My artwork is a magical landscape of shapes that tricks the eye to investigate what it’s seeing.”

 

“The gallery is booked with artists through April of 2016 with the help of an announcement by the Broward Cultural Division which has gotten us a flood of submissions,” said Andrew Martineau, Marketing Director, Westfield Broward mall. “Celebrating culture is a large part of what we embody as a shopping center and the gallery gives us an opportunity to showcase our community”. We encourage interested artists to continue to submit their work to the mall marketing department at broward@westfield.com. This is a great opportunity to exhibit and celebrate local art free of charge.”

 

From Enjoying a movie and Shopping at a blend of national and regional retailers to Dining at one of the diverse restaurant selections and Playing at the new Play Space, Westfield Broward mall offers a relaxing environment that’s rich with culture and entertainment for all.

County Commission approves new BB&T center operating agreement

Broward County Commissioners have voted in favor of a proposal to revise a long-term agreement with Sunrise Sports and Entertainment (SSE) to provide funding for upgrades and operating costs for the BB&T Center.

Under the terms of the $86 million agreement, Broward County will provide $39 million for maintenance, repair and upgrades to the 17-year-old facility, and $45.5 million to assist with operating expenses such as utility costs and insurance. An additional $1.5 million will be used to attract a high impact event. Funding will come from tourist development taxes, which are paid primarily by visitors to Broward County.

The Florida Panthers will continue to pay $5.3 million annually to reduce the debt on the Arena, contribute $500,000 annually to a County tourism marketing fund, and share revenue and profits with the County under the new terms.

Broward County will also gain development rights for property surrounding the Arena, and further protect taxpayer investment in the facility by securing an irrevocable letter of credit from SSE in the event the team defaults, files bankruptcy or relocates.

“This provides a lot of protection for Broward County. Tourism is very important. Tourism is best protected by approving this amendment to the agreement. The financial success of the Florida Panthers is going to be based on whether they win on the ice, and Broward County is not in a position to affect the Panthers win/loss record but we are in a position to protect the taxpayers’ interest,” said Commissioner Tim Ryan.

“We now have a letter of credit and we have development rights to a minimum of 120 acres of land that surrounds the arena. We have a termination fee that if the deal is terminated in a specified year, the Panthers pay off our debt. This deal gives us an upside to share in profits. We get a release on any threats of litigation. This is a much better deal economically then in 2014. Based on the new terms of the deal, based on the recommendations of our consultants, based on the outreach I did in district two, I will support this deal,” said Commissioner Mark Bogen.

“I think that the staff here, our consultant, the Panthers organization has done nothing less than showed true leadership in providing a give and take. There were two requests that came out of the Tourist Development Council. Those two requests have been turned into reality in this contract. You listened. You delivered. I think that what we have in front of us is as good as it gets,” noted Commissioner Lois Wexler.

“I believe I see many positives to this agreement in terms of the benefits to the people of Broward County, one of which is the twenty-five percent commitment to small businesses. Many of my constituents e-mailed and voiced concern about the potential loss of jobs if we don’t have a team in place. I think we’ve negotiated the best deal for the people of Broward County,” said Commissioner Dale V.C. Holness.

Vice Mayor Barbara Sharief, Commissioners Lois Wexler, Tim Ryan, Mark Bogen, and Dale V.C. Holness voted in favor of the new proposal. Broward Mayor Marty Kiar, Commissioner Chip LaMarca and Commissioner Beam Furr voted against revising the current contract.

Commissioner Chip LaMarca voiced concern about using tourist taxes that also finance beach renourishment. “I think we need to maintain this team here. We need to maintain our arena, it’s our building. But, I have to support the beach and I don’t think I can support this.”

“We’re told we can either give them the money or that they might declare bankruptcy and that we’re left holding an empty arena. I’m not convinced that that would be the end result. The team finally has an owner and a general manager that seem to know how to run an arena, but they’ve only had this team for a couple years. Changing the terms of the contract just feels premature to me. I want to see them try to live up to the terms of the agreement that they signed,” said Commissioner Beam Furr. “I don’t think this is the best use of tourist development tax dollars. There are other options. One is to simply honor the contract as it is written.”

“I’m going to vote no on this. There are plusses and minuses for the County and the same for the Panthers,” said Mayor Marty Kiar.

The National Hockey League will contribute $1.5 million to youth hockey development in Broward County, and consider awarding at least one All Star Game to the BB&T Center before 2022.

The BB&T Center is a popular venue for concerts, sporting and entertainment events. Broward County taxpayers own the $212 million facility, built in 1998, which is managed by SSE and has been operating at a loss. SSE is also the parent company of the Florida Panthers, the Center’s primary tenant.

Little Haiti goes Art Pop

Nowhere was as colorful and rich in artistic innovation than Little Haiti this past weekend, as the neighborhood celebrated Art Week Miami with a bang, featuring countless exhibits, performances and panels. Local dignitaries, artists, and art fans alike showed up in droves to support Little Haiti’s art week.

At the heart of this year’s festivities lay Art Beat Miami – a week-long celebration of art across the Diaspora, featuring pop-up galleries, live performances, a Q&A with legendary artist Edouard Duval-Carrié and a classy brunch with Chef Creole. Most memorable was the moving exhibit “Haiti: Contemporary Photographic Perspectives.” Curated by Edouard Duval-Carrié and dedicated to the lives lost in 2010 earthquake, the show feature works by renowned photographers Carl Juste, Roberto Stephenson, Leah Gordon and Maggie Steber, among others.

Another stellar pop-up exhibit was After Dark: Kreyol Basel, which displayed work from local Haitian American street photographers, Alain Pierre-Louis (Atis Lakay), Gerry L’aurore (L’aurore) and Woosler Delisfort (Tewoose), and guest Trinidadian photographer, Johanne Rahaman. The show revealed an intimate look at life in Little Haiti, from the botanicas to Vodou ceremonies.

Still available for public viewing is the illuminating exhibit, “Borderless Caribbean: Unmapped Trajectories – Annotating Art Histories.” Opened on December 5th at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex and running until January 25, the show explores the artistic and cultural connections across the Caribbean.

Jamaican entrepreneurs explore opportunities for investment and trade in Cuba

Opportunities for investment and trade in Cuba were the topics for discussion at the ‘Cuba Demystified’ business forum hosted on Friday, December 4, 2015 by  JAMPRO,    PricewaterhouseCoopers  and NCB Capital Markets.

The forum, which featured international and local experts in the investment and    trade  fields, discussed the opportunities, challenges and procedures to do business in    the    Cuban market.

With the Cuban economy projected to grow by 5% in  2015, the private sector was   urged to take advantage of that economy’s gradual  liberalisation by exploiting     Jamaica’s special government-­‐to-­‐ government   relationship.   Primarily,   that   relationship includes special arrangements for financing with the  EXIM Bank, cooperation between the ports of Kingston  and  Mariel and the CARICOM-­‐Cuba Trade  &  Economic  Cooperation  Agreement, amongst other    benefits.

‘Cuba  Demystified’ also  explored the  processes needed to successfully export to the    Cuban market, the Jamaican products that are in demand in Cuba and the major    distributors in that market. Entrepreneurs were advised that succeeding in the Cuban   market required   sustained   interaction   and   participation   in    Cuban    trade    exhibitions.

Honourable G. Anthony Hylton, Minister of Industry, Investment  and     Commerce, stated that the Government has noted the challenges for companies to   export to Cuba, and said that funding was  an  important  factor  in increasing   the   export of  Jamaican products,

“The  Government, through the EXIM’s Bank facility with Cuba, greatly attenuates the risk of timely payment for goods traded  with  Cuba. However, the time has come to consider the expansion of this  line of credit  to include   services and to increase the volume of the credit line.”

He continued “Like you, however, I anxiously await the  day when the US embargo   against Cuba  is completely torn down. I will,therefore,continue to move the Resolution in our Parliament against the embargo on Cuba, just as I have done each   year   since   2007,during the  period of the vote in the United Nations    to    End    the    Embargo    Against    Cuba.”

Corporate   Jamaica   also     offered     their   support   for     the   initiative,     with   Wilfred   Baghaloo   Director   of   the    Advisory       Services     Department     of     PricewaterhouseCoopers     Jamaica     and     Steven     Gooden,     CEO     NCB    Capital    Markets    Limited    committing    to    assist    their    clients    with    targeting    Cuba.    Gooden    noted    that    NCBJ    has     intensified     its   focus   on   regional   expansion,   and     boosted     its   ability   to     provide   support   to   companies    both     locally   and     regionally   through     NCB     Capital   Markets   Limited.       Both     men     believed   that     all   Jamaican    companies    should    seek    to    grow    their    businesses    through     other  markets    and    that    it    was    time    to    take    on    the    challenges.

JAMPRO   has   undertaken   a   programme   of   initiatives   aimed     at   growing   Jamaica’s   presence   in     the   Cuban    market.     The   agency   will   be   continuing   its   Cuba   Market   Development   Plan,     and   is   building   strategic    partnerships    with    government    and    private    bodies    to    further    the    penetration    of    Brand    Jamaica    in    Cuba.

JAMPRO   has   undertaken   a   programme   of   initiatives   aimed     at   growing   Jamaica’s   presence   in     the   Cuban    market.     The   agency   will   be   continuing   its   Cuba   Market   Development   Plan,     and   is   building   strategic    partnerships    with    government    and    private    bodies    to    further    the    penetration    of    Brand    Jamaica    in    Cuba.

M-DCPS presents first ever All-In-One, All-Around business fair

On Monday, December 7, Miami-Dade County Public Schools held its first-ever, All-in-One, All Around Business Fair at Miami Central Senior High School.

The all-inclusive free event included employment opportunities for job seekers, technical training for employment, information on how to do business with M-DCPS and certification opportunities for small and minority women business enterprises.

More than 25 local employers (prime contractors and subcontractors) as well as the District’s Transportation and Maintenance departments were on hand to interview and offer jobs to qualified applicants. Staff from the Office of Economic Opportunity and the Office of Procurement Management Services was on hand to provide current and potential school district vendors with vital information on acquiring certification as a Small and Minority Women Business, upcoming goods and services bids, and how to become a vendor in order to do business with the District.

The Adult and Career Technical Education Department  provided information regarding training opportunities in the following workforce areas: air conditioning; building construction/carpentry; CDL/bus driving; cabinet making; electricity; heavy equipment operation; masonry; plumbing; tile setting; welding, and core construction.

Art, Beats and Lyrics returns to Miami for a 2nd year

On Saturday December 12, join the travelling art and music tour, Art, Beats and Lyrics, presented by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey and Gentleman Jack as it returns to Miami for it’s second year.

What began as a small art show in Atlanta has grown to be one fo the worlds largets tours of its kind. In its 11th year, the multi city tour showcases comes of today’s best upcoming artists, along with seasoned veterans in art and music under one roof.

Visual masterpieces will be on display from featured artists Dubelvoo, Kazilla and Diana Contreras, among many other notable names recognized globally. Previous featured acts have included Kendrick Lama, 8Ball and MJG, Pator Troy and Master P.

Additional details are available at jackhoneyabl.com

Miami Dade Haitian American judge faces election challenge

Miami-Dade county’s first Haitian-American Judge Fred Seraphin is facing competition for next elections, raising concerns among local Caribbean bar associations. Appointed by Governor Jeb Bush in 2001 to fill a vacancy left by former county court judge Kevin Emas, Seraphin has not yet filed to run for re-election.

Miami-based criminal defense lawyer Milena Abreu, a former public defender for Miami-Dade Public Defender Carlos Martinez, has announced her plans to run. Abreu, along with a few Florida based women groups have criticized Seraphin regarding an incident in June when he refused to accommodate assistant public defender Marissa Altman Glatzer’s request for a 15-minute break every three to four hours during trial so that she would be able to pump breast milk.

On the other hand, Caribbean Bar Association President-elect Devona Reynolds-Perez has cited concerns that the county already lacks judicial diversity.

Miami Dade currently has 123 judges, with less than 10% being black.

South African athletes slighted by Bolt’s new Telkcom deal

Although Usain Bolt has earned and deserves the title as the “World’s Fastest Man,” this doesn’t mean his fame or athletic prowess surpasses the pride athletes of other countries have in their own athletic ability.

This is evident in a recent controversy in South Africa involving telecommunications company Telkom SA SOC Ltd., Bolt and top South African athletes. Telkom recently announced Bolt as its company spokesperson to market its newest broadband technology.

“We believe that Bolt‚ as the fastest person in the world‚ will assist us in creating awareness of the speed‚ consistency and reliability that fiber technology offers,” said Telkom’s Chief Marketing Officer, Enzo Scarcella.

However, some South African athletes are peeved by the decision, including Anaso Jobodwana – who won the bronze medal in the 200 meters finals at the World Championships in Beijing, China earlier this year. The athletes felt snubbed that Telkom overlooked local sprinters to market its speedy broadband technology. Speaking on a South African radio program, Jobodwana said the decision to select Bolt sent a message that local athletes “are not good enough.”

In the company’s defense, Telkom spokesperson Jacqui O’Sullivan did say that Telkom would soon announce spokesperson deals with local athletes, with plans to incorporate them in the company’s marketing campaign next year for the Olympics.

But Coral Gables sports marketer Miguel Estrada says that selecting Bolt was more a matter of marketing than national fidelity.

“International companies routinely use internationally recognized sports or entertainment personalities to market their product,” says Estrada. “It seems natural that an international company promoting speedy Internet service would want to use the fastest human on earth. This is a powerful way to communicate its new technology.”

Estarda does, however, note that it’s “quite understandable why South African athletes may feel slighted, but any company will do what it thinks is the best strategy.”

Next year, Bolt will also be competing in the Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Both Jamaicans and global track and field fans will be eagerly anticipating a hat trick for Bolt to win gold medals in the 100 and 200 meters, and in the 4 x 100 meters relay as he did in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics in Beijing and London respectively.

Despite being at the height of his career, both as an athlete and public figure, Bolt is considering stepping down from international competition after the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Bolt recently suggested that he could retire from international competition in 2017, and according to reports, is undecided about competing in the 2017 World Championships in London.

“But if Bolt wins gold in the both sprint races in Brazil, I doubt he’ll retire,” says Estrada. “As long as he continues to win, he’ll be an advertiser’s dream. More big contracts like that from Telkom will come chasing him. He won’t get those contracts if he retires.”

TalkUp: What can be done to prevent terror attacks on U.S. soil?

Jamaican Government to apologize to Rastafarian community

Zika virus hits Caribbean. This and a look at some of the top stories making the news today, December 11, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Miami-Dade county’s first Haitian-American Judge Fred Seraphin is facing competition for next elections, raising concerns among local Caribbean bar associations. Miami-based criminal defense lawyer Milena Abreu has announced her plans to run. But Caribbean Bar Association President-elect Devona Reynolds-Perez cites concerns that the county already lacks judicial diversity.

As part of Lauderdale Lakes’ outreach efforts, residents will gather as volunteers this Saturday for the City’s Dade of Service. Volunteers will paint and repair homes in need as part of the city’s beautification program. Vice mayor Dr. Eileen Rathery says the initiative seeks to engage residents in giving back to their community.

South Florida’s best steel drum bands and percussion groups head to Lauderhill this weekend to celebrate the holiday season in style at the Pan-Parang Festival, set for this Saturday, starting 2 p.m. at Central Broward Regional Park. Performers will include former Miami Broward carnival Panorama winners Silver Stars USA and Pantastik.

The recently dropped Jamaican soccer star Dane Richards gets a second chance in South Florida, with plans to join the North American Soccer League’s new franchise, Miami FC. The 31-year-old, who was recently released by the New York Bulls, is expected to be named as one of the latest additions to the Miami soccer team.

What’s trending:

To fend off potential outbreak of the rising Zika Virus in the Caribbean, the Jamaican Government has recruited 1000 inspectors to manage infections in community. The virus has already appeared in Suriname.

 

zika virus hits caribbean

Read more: Minister warns of Zika virus hitting Trinidad & Tobago

Arlene Harrison-Henry
Arlene Harrison-Henry

A report on the 1963 Coral Gardens incident released by the Office of the Public Defender is recommending that the State apologizes to the Rastafarian community. Public Defender Arlene Harrison Henry, on Thursday presented the report at a meeting of  the St James Parish council. Harrison Henry explained the report looked at the events which led to the burning of  a gas station in Coral Gardens in St James and the subsequent arrest, trial and imprisonment of  Rastafarians.

Read More: JA Gov’t apologizes to rastafarian community

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 80 and a low of 69. For Miami-Dade, mostly isolated thunderstorms with a high of 79 and a low of 68.

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

The easiest way to prevent diseases: take care of your teeth

(BPT) – Millions of baby boomers set for retirement are facing the question of whether to buy dental insurance. In many cases, they’ve had dental insurance their entire working lives, thanks to employer-sponsored plans. But teeth are not immune to aging, and many people will find themselves paying for costly procedures like crown replacements, extractions, implants and dentures unless they continue with the preventive care usually covered by dental insurance.

“If you’re on the verge of retirement, now is not the time to quit going to the dentist,” says Dr. Jed Jacobson, chief science officer of Renaissance Life & Health Insurance and the director of the Renaissance Dental Research and Data Institute. “If anything, it’s more important than it was when you were younger. Baby boomers are the first generation to have had access to great dental insurance and care throughout their working lives. When they make the switch from an employer-sponsored health plan to Medicare, they might think they no longer need dental insurance — but it’s vital for seniors to have it.”

In addition to the obvious benefit of preserving dental health, regular care by a dentist can help seniors spot signs of up to 120 different diseases, including oral cancer and diabetes. With diabetes, for example, your dentist is often the first person to detect early warning signs like frequent yeast infections in the mouth and periodontal disease. Starting care at the first sign of trouble is critical for successful long-term care.

“Aging takes a toll on oral health,” Jacobson says. “Many older adults take prescription drugs for things like hypertension that can make them more prone to periodontal disease and tooth decay. If a dentist spots a disease or illness in its early stages, it’s not only beneficial to your health; it may also help to lower medical costs.”

According to the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) research, people without dental insurance are not only less likely to go to the dentist; they’re more likely to have heart disease, osteoporosis and diabetes — health issues older people are particularly prone to. And researchers have even found an association between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s disease, according to a report in U.S. News & World Report.  Researchers found that bacteria from the mouth could enter the bloodstream, travel to the brain and possibly cause the kind of brain cell deterioration associated with Alzheimer’s.

Would you go to the emergency room for a toothache? Each year, thousands of Americans without dental insurance — including many seniors on Medicare — do exactly that. In fact, non-traumatic dental conditions now account for more than two percent of all emergency room visits, according to Stanford University researchers. Every year, more than 738,000 people visit emergency departments for dental treatment, NADP reports.

“No one wants to have to go to the emergency room, especially not for an issue that could have been prevented before it reached a crisis stage. Additionally, emergency rooms are not equipped to take care of the problem, which means follow-up care will still be needed to solve the issue,” Jacobson says. “Having dental insurance empowers seniors to take care of their teeth, and can help them maintain better overall health as well.”

Misconceptions of the cost of dental insurance may cause some seniors to forego coverage. Retirees actually have many options for finding affordable dental insurance, from group plans offered through associations to customizable individual plans from providers like Renaissance Dental. In fact, Renaissance can customize plans as a supplement to Medicare, and offers a network of leading national and regional PPO networks. Plans cover preventive care, such as routine exams and cleanings, plus certain dental procedures like crowns and implants. Plan premiums can be as little as $25 per month.

Brandpointcontent.com

Former Antigua and Barbuda PM calls on government to submit report on CIP

The government of Antigua and Barbuda has been called on to release a report on the country’s Citizenship by Investment programme (CIP).

The call came from former Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer who  Prime Minister Gaston Browne must honour the law by presenting a report on the programme to parliament every six months.

Spencer, who is now opposition leader told supporters at a political rally last week, that although the president administration has been in office for 18 months, a report is yet to be submitted.

“While the law requires that they are supposed to come to parliament every six months with the full report outlining how many passports were granted, where the people came from and the basis upon which they came. Up to now, parliament has not received any report,” Spencer said.

Under the CIP programme investors are granted citizenship on making substantial contributions to the island’s development in several areas.

Antigua and Barbuda is one of several Caribbean countries engaged in CIPs as a means of attracting investors.

Former Red Bull Dane Richards joins Miami FC

The recently dropped Jamaican soccer star Dane Richards gets a second chance in South Florida, with plans to join the North American Soccer League’s new franchise, Miami FC.

The 31-year-old, who was recently released by the New York Bulls, is expected to be named as one of the latest additions to the Miami soccer team.

Richards completed a loan deal with Indy Eleven from the New York Red Bulls this past October.

Richards featured in 12 matches for the Red Bulls this season before moving to Indy, where he appeared in 15 matches, scoring three goals as a converted forward.

The Montego Bay native was drafted out of Clemson University in 2007 and remained in New York for over five-and-a-half seasons, earning 147 MLS regular season appearances and tallying 21 goals and 26 assists during his first stint with the club.

Guyana, US sign MOU for counter-narcotic initiative

The government of Guyana has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United States for the operation of a vetted counter-narcotic investigative unit programme.

The Vice President and Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan and US Ambassador to Guyana Perry Halloway signed the MOU on Wednesday.

The Vetted Unit Program of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA),is to train, equip and provide necessary assistance to partner countries so specialized units in those countries can meet certain standards and increase capacity in integrity, professionalism, and competence in fighting drug crime.

“This program is intended to ensure better investigations and interdiction, and to prosecute and dismantle high-value targets in narco-trafficking networks,” said a release issued following the signing.

Members of Guyana’s Law Enforcement sector who will participate in the Vetted Unit Program will have to pass certain background checks, plus tests as to medical and psychological fitness for duty, polygraph testing and random drug testing.

The DEA will be responsible for all expenses for training, whether it be local or international. It was noted that the MOU will remain in force for a period of five years.

JA Govt. to apologize to rastafarian community

A report on the 1963 Coral Gardens incident released by the Office of the Public Defender is recommending that the State apologises to the Rastafarian community.

Public Defender Arlene Harrison Henry, on Thursday presented the report at a meeting of  the St James Parish council. 

Harrison Henry explained the report looked at the events which led to the burning of  a gas station in Coral Gardens in St James and the subsequent arrest, trial and imprisonment of  Rastafarians. 

The report found several human rights violations including denial of religious freedom. 

The report recommended that a J$10 million  trust fund  be set up for survivors of  the victims of  the Coral Garden incident.The report also recommended that the State considers the granting of licenses to the Rastafarian community to grow marijuana for research.

3 delicious Grenadian foods to try

Looking to take a vacation anytime soon? Why not take a trip to the “Island of Spice” we know as Grenada to indulge in some of their most delicious foods.

Nutmeg Ice Cream

Made the same way a traditional ice cream is made, the secret ingredient to this yummy dessert (in case you didn’t guess) is the addition of one teaspoon of nutmeg. The nutmeg blends perfectly with the cream, eggs and milk which makes it a staple for those hot sunny days on the Spice Island. For those that want to spice it up even more (pun intended) add a few cinnamon sticks and you’re good to go.

Roast Pork

A favorite dinner meal for locals and tourists, Grenadians use the pork tenderloins to create this mouth-watering dish. The meat is seasoned to perfection with chopped shallots, bay leaves, salt, allspice, and ginger and then cooked until the meat is juicy and succulent. To top it all off, the sauce is made from fresh orange juice, minced shallots, brown sugar, fresh ginger, bay leaves, and allspice. The meal is usually served with black bean and corn salad.

Oildown 

The national dish of Grenada, Oildown is a stew made with salted pigtail, onion, carrot, celery, peppers, dasheen, breadfruit, and coconut milk. It is usually served with dumplings. Easy to prepare, the stew is boiled until all the coconut milk is absorbed and the mixture has an oily texture. The tasty dish is usually served with dumplings.

Remembering the late former Prime Minister of JA Michael Manley

On Thursday, December 10, had he been alive, Michael Manley would have celebrated his 91st birthday.

Manley, who served as prime minister of Jamaica from 1972 to 1980 and from 1989 to 1992, is remembered for his participation in social legislations and creation of institutions in the 1970s which changed Jamaica forever. These include equal pay for women, maternity leave with pay, national minimum wage and the National Housing Trust.

The former prime minister died on March 6, 1997, at the age of 72.

To celebrate his birthday, the secretariat of the Peoples’ National Party (PNP) hosted a tribute event under the theme ‘The Word is Love’  at the PNP’s Headquarters on Thursday morning. The event took the form of an exhibition about the life and times of Michael Manley, followed by an evening of reflections.
There will also be an all day exhibition reflecting themes of his ideas and work, which started at 10 am in the Conference Room at the PNP Headquarters.
1...1,5021,5031,504...1,543Page 1,503 of 1,543