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CEP announces date for second round of Haitian presidential elections

The Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) in Haiti says the campaign period for the second round of the presidential elections has started and will end five days before the run-off poll on December 27.

In a statement, the CEP, which has come under increasing pressure over the results of the October 25 poll, said that the campaign, which began on Thursday, will end at midnight on December 22.

It said it was inviting the two presidential candidates, Jovenel Moïse and Jude Célestin, as well as the cartels of local authorities,” to scrupulously comply with the prescribed of Article 115.1 of the Electoral Decree of March 2, 2015 in the course of their respective campaign”.

The CEP said it was also relying “on the commitment and willingness of all actors, particularly those involved in the second round of presidential elections, to create the climate of security essential to the proper continuation of the process”.

Earlier this week, the CEP said that Moise, who has never held political office and was picked by outgoing President Muchel Martelly as a successor, had received 508, 761 votes or 32.7 per cent, while Celestin of the LAPEH party, who is backed by the opposition, had polled 392, 782 or 25.29 per cent of the votes case.

But the announcement by the nine-member CEP set off a new wave of protests in Cabaret, where supporters of Moise Jean-Charles, one of the leading candidates from a field of 54, denounced the results.

Media reports said at least one police officer was shot and injured and another was shot with rocks.

Last week, thousands of Haitians demanded that the first-round presidential election be annulled during a violent protest that left at last one person dead.

Barbados gov’t mulls new cell phone policy

Finance Minister Chris Sinckler

Finance Minister Chris Sinckler says the plan to impose a new tax on cellular phone calls is still on the table, but a different method will be used to collect the Value Added Tax (VAT).

Earlier this year, the government had an initial plan of a three-cent tax on mobile airtime.

However, on Wednesday, Sinckler proposed a 4.5 per cent rise in the VAT on mobile phone service, to take effect from January 1, 2016, raising the tax from 17.5 per cent to 22 per cent.

. The Finance Minister told the Barbados Today publication, that the previous plan was proving too difficult and expensive for the telecommunications companies to implement.

“Subsequently, at the request of cell phone companies and others, we met with them to look at that excise. It was felt that given the way in which the billing structure for the companies is done, it would mean an additional cost to them to do a new billing system to accommodate the new excise at three cents.

“They also indicated that they would prefer if it were a percentage, rather than a real figure. It was recommended that the easiest and cleanest way to do this would be to do an increase on the VAT, because VAT is already charged on those services,” Sinckler said.

The Finance Minister said the additional tax will raise between BD$15 and BD$16 million, but the original plan would have cost Barbadians twice as much.

 

“Little Haiti After Dark” photographic exhibit to explore Little Haiti community

On Decmber 3-5, the New Tropic and Fondasyon Zaka/ZakaFest will present “Little Haiti After Dark: Kreyol Basel” starting at 6 p.m.

Curated by Yasmine Samimy, the photographic exhibit is a raw, unapologetic and authentic view of Little Haiti’s mystical “after-dark” community. The “After Dark” photographic exhibit gathers the work of four photographers who collectively tell the story of Little Haiti’s community within a community. The photographs highlight the late night ‘rara-bands’ and parade of Little Haiti, the midnight Voodoo ceremonies, the botanica shops, and most importantly the people who are the heartbeat of the community.

 

The photographers include: Alain Pierre Louis, Gerry L’aurore, Woosler Delisfort, and Johanne Rahaman. The celebration will also include performances by star-studded lineup of: Empress Addi, Abstract V, Sanba Noe and Neg Yo, Nixon Dimes, Rara Kuyu, Rara Rock, Court Poyser, Eric Noxe, and Kazoots.

This free admission event will kick off with a meet and greet of the artist on Thursday accompanied by live music and food. Friday, the exhibition will be on display with more live music. Saturday, the exhibition will close with key performance by Kazoots.

For more information and full schedule of Little Haiti After Dark: Kreyol Basel, visit zakafest.com/kreyol-basel  or contact Jaury “Jay” Jean-Enard at jaurymj@yahoo.fr or 786.506.0233.

 

BCPS to participate in National Computer Science Education Week

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) will participate in the Hour of Code, set to take place during National Computer Science Education Week from December 7-13.  As part of the Hour of Code, BCPS Superintendent Robert W. Runcie will participate in coding activities at Morrow Elementary School on Wednesday, December 9, 2015, at 1 p.m. 
The County’s goal is to have 100 percent of the District’s schools, as well as 100 percent of the District’s elementary and middle school students, complete at least one hour of computer coding in honor of the District’s centennial anniversary.  

 

BCPS is the first Florida school district to partner with Code.org to increase computer science courses, curriculum and resources in schools.  Since 2013, the number of BCPS students participating in computer science courses and curriculum has increased from 240 students to more than 38,000 elementary, middle and high school students in 2015/16.  In addition, computer science is offered at every BCPS high school.

As part of the Hour of Code, BCPS Superintendent Robert W. Runcie will participate in coding activities at Morrow Elementary School, located at 408 SW 76TH Terrace, North Lauderdale, on Wednesday, December 9, 2015, at 1 p.m.

Small business owners prepare for the most important shopping day of the year

SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet

Now in its sixth year, Small Business Saturday (November 28) is a day where every shopper can play a part to support their local economy and the small business owners who provide the majority of our economic growth. Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet, the head of the U.S. Small Business Administration and a member of President Obama’s Cabinet, made the following statement:

“On Saturday, November 28, please join the U.S. Small Business Administration in supporting America’s small business and entrepreneur community by participating in the sixth annual ‘Small Business Saturday’ and encouraging American consumers to ‘shop small’. Small Business Saturday plays a key role in driving customer traffic and growing revenue for our 28 million independent businesses during the important holiday retail season. We’re also encouraging consumers to ‘dine small’ by grabbing a bite at a local eatery.

“By shopping local and small the majority of the money stays within the community. Small business owners and Main Street businesses are the fabric of our daily lives. They have energy and passion for what they do, and when we support small businesses, jobs are created and local communities preserve their unique culture.

The SBA provides small business owners with access to counseling services, capital to grow or start their business, and a connection to the federal marketplace and corporate supply chain. More than anything, these entrepreneurs also need customers. Small Business Saturday also provides us an opportunity to honor and celebrate the hardworking men and women that are creating jobs and fueling the economy in their local neighborhoods.”

UN condemns ongoing violence following Haiti elections results

Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Haiti, Sandra Honoré

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Haiti, Sandra Honoré, has condemned the ongoing violence that followed the release of the preliminary results of the  October 25 legislative and first round presidential elections last week.

At least one person was killed and several others wounded as opposition supporters staged violent protests in the capital last weekend against the preliminary results.

Police report that the protestors erected barricades, burning tyres as they took to the streets demanding a recall of the election results.

They said one man was shot during the protest over the weekend that also saw police using tear gas and fired gunshots to disperse the crowd.

The Trinidadian born Honore deplored the repeated use of violence during the demonstrations that has also resulted in damage to private property.

“Freedom of peaceful protest and freedom of expression are civil and political rights guaranteed by international conventions, enshrined in the Haitian Constitution and supported by law,” she said, reiterating that  “efforts should be made by all actors of national life in order to avoid any recourse to violence, intimidation of all kinds, defamation or acts that can contribute to the infringement of individuals rights and private or public property, in exercise of the right to demonstrate and freedom of opinion.

Opposition politicians have been demanding the resignation of the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) accusing it of not ensuring that the polls on October 25 were free and fair.

According to the preliminary results released on November 5, the ruling party candidate Jovenel Moise will contest a run off on December 27 with the opposition candidate Jude Celestin to replace President Michel Martelly who is prevented by law from contesting a third consecutive presidential election.

Bolt, Fraser-Pryce win Caribbean Sports Awards

The world’s fastest man Usain Bolt and his compatriot Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce won the Annual Caribbean Sports Awards, as Jamaicans claimed five of the six categories on offer.

Bolt won the Sportsman of the Year award ahead of Paralympic athlete Akeem Stewart of Trinidad and Tobago and O’Dayne Richards, also from the twin island republic.

Other contenders were Grenada’s Kirani James, Machel Cedenio and George Bovell of Trinidad and Tobago.

Fraser-Pryce edged out Cuba’s Yarisley Silva and Alia Atkinson of Jamaica. 

The other nominees for the Sportswoman of the Year award were Jamaicans Stafanie Taylor (Cricket) and Danielle Williams (Athletics); Shaunae Miller (Athletics) of the Bahamas; Akela Jones (Athletics) of Barbados; Denia Caballero (Athletics) of Cuba and Trinidad and Tobago track and field athletes Kelly-Ann Baptiste, Michelle Lee Ahye and Cleopatra Borel.

Jeffrey Gibson of the Bahamas and Danielle Williams of Jamaica were voted the top Rising Stars in the Caribbean.

Jamaican relay teams dominated the Team of the Year categories with the quartet of Nesta Carter, Asafa Powell, Nickel Ashmeade, Usain Bolt taking the Male Team of Year for the 4x100m gold at the IAAF World Championships in a world leading time of 37.36 seconds.

The Barbados Cricket team and the two-man beach volleyball team of Fabien Whitfield and Daneil Williams of Trinidad and Tobago were also nominated.

The 4x100m championship record team of Veronica Campbell-Brown, Natasha Morrison, Elaine Thompson and Fraser-Pryce copped the Female Team of the Year.

 

Guyana and UAE sign Air Services Agreement

Guyana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) sign an open skies agreement in Montreal, Canada

An Air Services Agreement has been signed between Guyana and the United Arab Emirates.

The agreement, signed at the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) World Aviation Forum in Canada, paves the way for operations by airlines from either country.

The accord was signed by Junior Minister of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson who said with the UAE being the home of two of the world’s best airlines, Etihad and Emirates she hopes that at least one will operate into ‘Destination Guyana’.

The ICAO World Aviation Forum 2015, themed “Aviation Partnership for Sustainable Development” brings together States and financial/development community to raise the level of assistance in the civil aviation sector.

Guyana will be seeking support from ICAO for technical assistance to improve the level of compliance with ICAO Standards.

M-DCPS to provide free flu immunizations to students

On Tuesday, December 1 to Monday, December 18, the Miami-Dade Public County Schools (M-DCPS) in partnership with Healthy Schools, LLC and the Department of Health in Miami-Dade, students, and nurses will be administering flu immunizations or flu mist to students, free of charge with parental consent at every participating school.

M-DCPS has partnered with Healthy Schools, LLC and the Department of Health in Miami-Dade to ensure all resources needed are available to provide the flu mist at no cost.

Guyana opposition party wants COI released

General Secretary of the PPP/C, Clement Rohee

The main opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP)  in  Guyana has called on the government to release without any delay, the report of a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the death of noted historian Dr. Walter Rodney.

Rodney, the leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), died from a bomb blast in 1980 and the last government established the COI to examine the factors that led to his death.

The COI was brought to an end after 16 months following the May 2015 general election that was won by the coalition of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC).

The report of the Commission is expected to be handed over to the government next week, but PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee, speaking at a news conference Monday said he hoped there would be no “undue delay” in releasing the report.

The COI was criticised by the APNU while in opposition, which claimed that it was a move by the Donald Ramotar government to score political points.

Get the best performance from eggs in desserts

ther you prefer grandma’s famous pumpkin pie, snowflake cookies or delicious eggnog custard, there are plenty of dessert options to choose from during the holiday season. We often associate holiday desserts with sugar, frosting and all things sweet. However, the most important ingredient is not one that satisfies our sweet tooth, but is rather much simpler, and extremely nutritious — eggs!

In addition to their nutritional value, eggs perform more than 20 different functions within baking. For instance, eggs provide structure for cakes, texture to custards and add richness, color and flavor to almost all our holiday favorites.

Since eggs are an essential ingredient for baked goods, it is important to bake with them properly to get the best results. Here are some egg tips to keep in mind this baking season:

Room temperature eggs

If your dessert recipe involves a mixture or batter, make sure your eggs are room temperature so they blend easier. To get your eggs to room temperature you will need to remove them from the refrigerator at least one hour before you get cracking on your recipe. If you don’t have an hour to spare, speed up the process by placing the eggs in a bowl of warm water for 10-15 minutes.

Large eggs

Did you know most recipes are created using large eggs? Since the best bakers rely on precise measurements, using a different sized egg may affect the outcome of the recipe.

Egg yolks 

If you want a denser cookie or one richer in flavor, add more egg yolks than egg whites to help with the binding process. Keep in mind the yolk is the part of the egg that hosts essential vitamins like D, E and B12, and that the yolks of Eggland’s Best eggs contain more vitamins and nutrients than the yolks of ordinary eggs. Egg yolks are also great for setting mousses and custards.

Pumpkin Spice Cake Roll

Makes 12 servings

Ingredients

3 large Eggland’s Best eggs

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Filling 

6 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, plus additional for sprinkling

1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line the bottom of an 18×13 inch cookie sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. Stir in pumpkin, Eggland’s Best eggs, and lemon juice. Pour the batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.

3. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 5 minutes. Invert onto a damp kitchen towel dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Gently peel off parchment paper. Roll up cake in the towel jelly-roll style, starting with a short side. Place the cake on a baking sheet and let cool in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, make the filling: In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese, vanilla, lemon zest, and sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy. Chill in the refrigerator while the cake is cooling.

5. Unroll cake; spread filling evenly over cake, leaving a 1/2 inch border all around. Carefully reroll. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour (or more) before serving. Slice and enjoy! Store leftovers in the refrigerator. Optional: sprinkle additional confectioners’ sugar on top for garnish.

CNW90: Caribbean-American soccer coaches campaign for David Beckham’s new Miami stadium

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, November 27, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

A group of Caribbean-American soccer coaches, players and soccer enthusiasts are coordinating a campaign to support a possible election referendum approving soccer star David Beckham’s $200 million stadium deal with Miami Dade Public School District. Coach and group leader Michael Thelwell says the deal, which includes funding for school teams, will be a boon for young athletes.

A recent report shows that homes prices have continued to steadily rise in South Florida’s real estate market. House values in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties rose 7.7 percent in September, compared to September 2014. Prices have also grown in double digit rates since 2012.

Local charity, Education Gateway Foundation, is seeking assistance in providing 52 scholarships for students in Jamaica. The scholarships will target students living in rural areas, and also include vouchers for textbooks and school uniforms to alleviate financial stress on their families.

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has conceded to calls from the CARICOM Cricket Governance Committee for an urgent meeting to discuss the state of the game in the region. The meeting follows a CARICOM Review recommending the “immediate dissolution of the board.” Both governing bodies are due to meet Dec. 4.

What’s trending:

Fay Pickersgill has been confirmed as Jamaica’s new Ambassador to China. For more on what’s trending, follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Caribbean National Weekly, and on Twitter at National Weekly.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 80 and a low of 68. For Miami-Dade, partly cloudy with a high of 79 and a low of 66. For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. 

On behalf of the CNW90 team, we would like to wish you a wonderful Thankgiving.

From 20s to 50s: How to age gracefully

When you’re constantly bombarded with messages and news about the latest anti-aging treatments and methods, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. How can you maintain a skincare routine when the rules seem to be ever-changing? It might be simpler than you think. By separating the hype from reality, you can come up with a core skincare routine to perfectly suit the skin you’re in.

Many women don’t know where to start. Meaning, what types of anti-aging skincare products might be right for them and what the choices are when it comes to anti-aging products.

Dr. Jeanine Downie, board-certified dermatologist from Image Dermatology P.C. in Montclair New Jersey provides her tips for aging beautifully from your 20s to 50s and each decade in between:

20s: Preserve and protect. It’s never too early to start aging prevention. Hectic schedules, late nights out and days spent on the beach can wreak havoc on your skin. This stress shows up in the form of dark circles, under-eye bags, and dull or puffy skin. Fine lines begin to creep up as early as your late 20s, so a quality skin care routine is key. Start with a glycolic acid based cleanser and an oil free moisturizer. Dr. Downie recommends a separate sunscreen with an SPF 30 or above, rain or shine, January through December, regardless of your ethnicity. Sunscreen only works if you reapply it every two hours, according to skincancer.org. Sun protection forms the foundation of any anti-aging skin-care plan, according to the American Academy of Dermatology and The Skin Cancer Foundation, as the sun’s rays make our skin age more quickly – so regular use of daily sun protection is essential at all ages.

30s: Exfoliate. Once you hit your 30s, your skin’s natural exfoliation process begins to slow down. The growth factor in your skin also decreases. This means that you start to lose a teaspoon of collagen from your face every year by the time you are 30. Continue with your glycolic acid base cleanser. You also need an oil-free make up remover. Using an eye cream both day and night might help to increase moisture and suppleness around the eye area. Dr. Downie recommends a dual-pronged approach to help address some of the first signs of aging using topicals plus IMDEEN Derma One, an anti-aging oral supplement that provides nutrients from within, targeted to the dermal skin layers where creams and lotions can’t reach.  This supports hydration and helps to create a radiant glow.

40s: Strengthen. As you enter your 40s, your estrogen levels begin to change, resulting in dryer and thinner skin. Anti-aging products and creams with ingredients like retinoids and peptides are must-haves and always make sure to apply sunblock. Moisturize with serums containing growth factors and hyaluronic acid. Exfoliate – use a gentle face cleansing brush to help get rid of dead skin cells. Be sure to extend your skin care down to your neck and décolleté (upper chest) area. There are specifically formulated products to soothe and ease discoloration in this area. While you work hard to care for your skin on the outside, add IMEDEEN Time Perfection. This age-adjusted anti-aging supplement formula helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, so add it to your daily routine to nourish your skin from within. Nourishment from within supports the whole body, including the back of hands and upper chest.

50s: Beyond Hydration and Prevention. You should already be on a steady anti-aging regimen. As soon as you count 50 candles on your birthday cake, moisturizing should be your top skincare priority. Look for products with retinoids, peptides, alpha hydroxy and amino acids. You should be keeping vigilant with your sunscreen and moisturizers. You could always consider laser treatment surgery, Botox with filler or other non-invasive treatments. IMEDEEN Prime Renewal, the anti-aging skincare formula for women 50 and older, is a dietary supplement that helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots as it protects and repairs the skin, stimulating collagen production, and is a convenient addition to your daily skin care regimen.

Most important, Dr. Downie reminds that true beauty comes from within, so embrace your age throughout your life. Try to avoid excessive sun exposure (and indoor tanning as these rays may accelerate skin aging,) moisturize daily and consider an anti-aging oral supplement. Exercise, eat healthy foods, don’t forget to get enough sleep (it’s called beauty rest for a reason) and if you smoke, stop.

Follow this guide and take steps to shift you skincare routine throughout the decades to feel as beautiful as you look – both inside and out.

Brandpointcontent.com

City of Lauderale Lakes lends a helping hand

Every year around Thanksgiving, the City of Lauderdale Lakes has reached out to its churches and get a list of families that may need a little assistance and provide them with Thanksgiving dinner, and this year was no different.

“Lauderdale Lakes is a We Care City”, said Mayor Barrington Russell, Sr. “We recognize that the holidays may present a challenge for some of our residents and we try to seek out those families and provide them with some cheer; it’s our way of showing that we do care and appreciate their efforts to be productive citizens in our City.”

This year, the Department of Parks and Human Services worked closely with the Mayor and Commission office to provide a giveaway. The departments gave out more than 300 turkey dinners to residents that have been chosen through the four churches in our city as well as the Alzheimer’s Center participants.

“I am so grateful for the meal and feel blessed to be in a City where they consider the residents in this manner,” said dinner recipient Margie Clark.

JA PM to announce election date after voters list is published

Prime Minister of Jamaica, Portia Simpson-Miller

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller,  who says she is waiting the touch from God before announcing the date for the next general election, has told supporters that they will probably know the date for the polls only after the Voters List is published on November 30.

Addressing a mass rally in Black River, St Elizabeth on Sunday, Simpson Miller, who is president of the ruling People’s National Party (PNP), said Jamaica will not go to the polls on the current voters’ list.

“The youths of Jamaica should be given an equal opportunity to have a say in the way their country is governed,” she told supporters .

It has been widely speculated that the election, constitutionally due by December 29, 2016, could take place this year and both the PNP and the main opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) have been holding public rallies across the country in anticipation of an election date.

But Prime Minister Simpson Miller said the decision to wait until the next voters’ list is published on November 30 is a result of the “soundings” being across the island.

Thirty seven thousand new voters will be added to the list when a new one is published at the end of  the month.

Simpson Miller also announced that her party is calling off its political meetings until after Christmas saying she wants Jamaicans to have a peaceful Christmas Season.

 

The JLP says  it is prepared to await the publication of the new Voters List and is also confident of winning the election.

In the last general election, the PNP won 42 of the 63 seats.

New voters shun parties and register NPA

Florida Representative Hazelle Rogers

Recent reports show the percentage of voters registering with “No Party Affiliation” or NPA, has increased to some 27 percent or 3.2 million of Florida’s 12 million voters since 1995. The percentage of registered Democrats also declined from 47 to 38 percent, and Republicans from 41 to 35 percent.

The trend, says local officials, remains particularly relevant to newly naturalized immigrants in South Florida

“There has definitely been a trend,” says Florida Representative Hazelle Rogers, citing results from the Broward Supervisor of Elections showing over 2,000 newly registered NPA voters in immigrant-rich Lauderdale Lakes.

Curtis Forbes, an employee at a Perrine driver’s license office, believes this trend is because “several new citizens are reluctant to align with a political party when they register.”

“My privacy would be compromised were I to disclose my party affiliation when I register to vote,” says 23-year-old Courtney Spares. “That is my personal business. In Jamaica where I am from people keep their party affiliation private.”

“But this isn’t the Caribbean,” says Democratic Party field organizer Duane Livermore. “New voters should be aware it’s the norm to register Democrat or Republican. Even if you’re affiliated to a party, you can vote for any candidate during elections. But those registered NPA may not see their favorite candidates on the general election ballot, because they cannot vote in Florida’s closed primaries as NPAs.”

Representative Rogers said “more education is needed to make new voters aware of Florida’s election process.”

However, Miami political science professor, Dudley Stanford thinks the problem is that immigrant voters – particularly the younger generation – are not inspired by either of the major political parties.

Miramar’s Todd Miller, 23, said he only registered “because I was advised to when I was sworn in as a citizen. However, neither of the parties inspired me. I prefer being an NPA. If I decide to vote I will disclose my party affiliation on Election Day.”

Stanford said “NPA voters make Florida’s elections very interesting as they comprise a powerful voting bloc. NPA or independent voters are Florida’s famous, unpredictable voters that can swing presidential election either way.”

 

 

 

 

Home prices continue to rise in South Florida

A recent report by the National Association of Realtors shows that homes prices have continued to steadily rise in South Florida’s real estate market.

House values in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties rose 7.7 percent in September, compared to September 2014. Prices have also grown in double digit rates since 2012.

The rise of home price and shortage of home availability has strained the housing markets. Home buyers have been affected by concerns about potentially increasing mortgage rates as the concerns over the rate hike by the Federal Reserve continue to persist.

Analysts expect that the Federal Reserve will raise rates during its meeting in December. As the target federal funds gets raised, the interest rates and mortgage rates would also increase.

Caribbean-American soccer coaches campaign for David Beckham’s new Miami stadium

 

With a referendum likely in March 2016 to decide the fate of a soccer stadium in Miami for David Beckham’s Major League Soccer (MLS) team, a group of Caribbean-American soccer coaches, players and soccer enthusiasts are coordinating a campaign to support the plan.

Under this new deal, agreed to by Miami-Dade School Superintendent Albert Carvalho, Beckham will build with his own funds the 30,000 seat stadium estimated at $200 million, and assign ownership to MDPS. In return, Beckham’s group would save annual property taxes. The MDPS would also have use of the stadium for graduations, games and educational programming. The Beckham group would also assist the school board in funding school soccer teams.

The quid pro quo exchange will be fruitful for local youth soccer development, says West Kendall soccer coaches Richard Bayliss and Michael Thelwell, who are planning to launch a “soccer centralist” campaign to support the deal, as plans are underway to have the project placed as a referendum on the county’s presidential primary election ballot next March.

“Soccer is too positive a sport for South Florida’s youth to let this deal fail,” says Thelwell. “We plan to campaign to apprise voters of this so they support the MDPS deal.”

The group plans to raise funds for a media campaign to garner support for the deal from Miami-Dade voters with upcoming fundraiser showcase games among local school teams. Thelwell says the campaign will include radio ads, flyers, and spokesperson events.

The MDPS school board must formally approve the plan, but according to a staffer of the Miami School District “the board isn’t opposed to the deal.” Moreover, one of the strongest supporters for the deal is MDPS board member Raquel Regalado, in whose district the proposed stadium site falls.

Thelwell said he’s surprise it has taken so long for a decision to be made on a site for the soccer stadium, especially “since Beckham isn’t seeking funding from taxpayers. This shows lack of understanding about the popularity of soccer, and the benefits it can bring to a city.”

WICB to meet with Cricket Governance Committee

West Indies Cricket Board President Dave Cameron

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has conceded to calls from the CARICOM Cricket Governance Committee for an urgent meeting to discuss the state of the game in the region.

The meeting follows a CARICOM Review recommending the “immediate dissolution of the board.”

Three former Presidents of the West Indies Cricket Board had raised concern over the breakdown of relations between Caribbean Prime Ministers and the WICB and is criticising WICB President Dave Cameron for making the situation worse.

Former Presidents Wes Hall, Patrick Rousseau and Kenneth Gordon had issued a statement urging him to accede to a request to meet urgently with Caricom Heads.

Both governing bodies are due to meet December 4.

US and Cuba sign environmental pact

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Fisheries David Balton

A joint declaration to collaborate in environmental protection was signed earlier this week between Cuba and the United States.

The  Cuban embassy in Washington D.C.  says the accord focuses on the sustainable management of natural resources and shared ecosystems, particularly marine biodiversity.

The document also includes areas of common interest in developing bilateral cooperation, such as addressing the cause and effect of climate change, as well as measures for natural disaster risk reduction, which are crucial to address vulnerabilities of both territories.

The declaration expresses the joint willingness of both governments to boost the exchange of scientific, technological information and resources, and to develop joint research studies.

The document was penned at the US Department of State by Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Fisheries David Balton by Cuba’s ambassador to Washington Ramón Cabañas.

This is the second official instrument on the environment signed by the both over the past days following a November 18 memo of understanding on the protection of coastal marine resources, which was the first bilateral accord in the field since Havana and Washington reestablished diplomatic relations in July.

 

Top 3 Caribbean Restaurants in South Florida

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill

Founded in 1989, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill is a privately held corporation, is a manufacturer and distributor of Caribbean food products and franchisor of Caribbean restaurants. The company’s products can be found in its over 120 franchises, supermarkets, hospitals, schools, correctional institutions and food service facilities, sporting facilities, other retail outlets and at special outdoor events throughout the United States.

Aunt I’saunt-i-s-jamaican-restaurant

With 2 locations in South Florida, Aunt I’s has differentiated itself from the other Caribbean restaurants in the state of Florida. Known for it’s scrumptious meals, Aunt I’s was chosen by the Food Network to appear on their show the “Heat Seekers” and in 2013 the national network, ABC selected us for their food show “The Chew”. The restaurant was also ranked by the South Florida community as one of the top two Best Jamaican Restaurant on Miami’s local Channel 10’s Top 10 Jamaican Restaurants of 2013.

Tap Tap Restaurant

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Located in the heart of South Beach, Tap Tap restaurant has made a name for itself in Miami. From the murals that adorn the whole restaurant to the unique haitian cuisine, Tap Tap restaurant has become the “hit spot” for locals and tourists in Miami, looking to find the tastiest and most delicious Haitian meals.

Quick and tasty eggnog recipe

Step aside pumpkin spice, it’s time for eggnog to have its moment.

Eggnog isn’t just for drinking. It’s a flavorful, festive ingredient in a range of dishes, from breakfast options like Eggnog-stuffed French Toast to lunch yummies like classic Monte Cristo sandwiches dipped in an eggnog batter and pan-fried. And of course, eggnog has a place of honor in holiday desserts.  Incorporating homemade eggnog into recipes is easy, and it brings out the rich, authentic eggnog flavor that makes holiday dishes special. Check out this quick and tasty Caramel Apple Pie Eggnog recipe.

Caramel Apple Pie Eggnog

Ingredients:

4 Safest Choice pasteurized eggs

1 can (21 ounces) apple pie filling

1 1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon apple or pumpkin pie spice

whipped cream for garnish

caramel ice cream topping for garnish

cinnamon sticks (optional)

apple wedges (optional)

Directions:

Combine eggs and apple pie filling in a blender. Blend on high speed until very smooth, scraping container as needed. Add milk and apple pie spice. Blend on high speed until smooth.

Pour into glass or mug and top each serving with whipped cream and caramel topping. Sprinkle with additional apple pie spice and garnish with cinnamon stick or apple wedge, if desired.

Hummingbird Airlines to resume operations next month

The small Eastern Caribbean based Hummingbird Airlines is scheduled to resume operations next month, following a suspension of flights in the aftermath of two recent incidents.

The airline suspended all flights after it crash-landed in Barbuda in August and again in St. Lucia earlier this month.

Airline official, Sam Raphael  is quoted as saying the carrier will resume operations in late December.

He said the decision to stop flying was in an effort to restructure its operating procedures and make management changes.

He added that the company is taking time out to retrain captains and other changes to better serve the traveling public.

Following the latest incident in St. Lucia at the George Charles Airport on November 9, in which the landing gear of the plane failed, the company said it would conduct internal investigations.

 

Heart yourself with Omega-3s

(BPT) – Across the globe, heart health is becoming a growing concern. In order to combat a rising epidemic of heart disease and other heart-related illnesses, more and more Americans are placing a greater emphasis on the critical role of nutrition and a balanced diet.

More than likely you’ve heard about the importance of a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and its associated health benefits. However, despite this knowledge, it can be difficult to consume enough Omega-3s through diet alone. Knowing where to find the best sources of Omega-3s can be key to a heart-healthy lifestyle.

What are Omega-3s?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a form of polyunsaturated fat that helps support heart and joint health while maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Considered “essential” because the body needs them to function but can’t create them, Omega-3s must come from dietary sources like fatty fish, nuts or supplements such as krill oil. Unlike “bad” fats that can clog arteries and raise cholesterol, these “good” fats play a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart disease.

The benefits

In addition to supporting a healthy heart, here are just some of the great Omega-3 benefits:

*Supports healthy triglyceride levels
*Supports eye health and vision
*Supports healthy arteries
*Important for cognitive (or brain) health
*May support joint and bone health
*Important for healthy skin

Omega-3 deficiency symptoms

It’s also important to remember that the following symptoms may be caused by a lack of Omega-3s:

*Rough or dry, bumpy skin
*Dry, dull, brittle hair and dandruff
*Soft, peeling or brittle nails
*Excessive thirst
*Difficulty sleeping
*Difficulty paying attention
*Excessive mood swings, depression or unwarranted anxiety

Good sources of Omega-3

On average, Americans do not get enough Omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. Since Omega-3s are not produced naturally within the body, you can increase your daily intake with the following omega-rich foods and supplements:

*Fatty fish (i.e., mackerel, herring, lake trout, salmon, anchovies and tuna)
*Walnuts
*Flaxseeds
*Dairy and Eggs
*Supplements (i.e., MegaRed Krill Oil)

For those who can’t or would rather not eat fish or the other food sources high in Omega-3s, supplements can be a great way to bridge nutrient gaps. Not all supplements are the same, so it’s important to do your research and choose a product that has been clinically tested and proven to be beneficial. One supplement that has been proven to increase Omega-3 index within just 30 days is MegaRed Krill Oil because it’s an easily absorbed Omega-3. Furthermore, MegaRed is sustainably sourced from Antarctic krill and has no fishy aftertaste, a side effect of some other Omega-3 supplements.

Consuming a balanced diet of healthy foods and supplementing that diet is the key to unlocking heart and overall health.

JA’s Company Dance Theatre heads to Miramar

The Company Dance Theatre will present its latest production “The Rising” of its 27th anniversary tour on Saturday, December 5th, at the Miramar Cultural Center at 8 p.m.

Jamaica’s Consul General, Franz Hall and Miss Jamaica World 2005, Ms. Terri-Karelle Reid, will be the honorary chairs of the one night performance of  Jamaica’s leading modern dance company, under the artistic direction and founder Tony Wilson, who also operates the Tony Wilson School of Dance in Kingston.

The 27th anniversary season which opened at the Little Theatre in Kingston recently features new and remounted pieces from Jamaican choreographers as well as those from the renowned Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre, New York.   The titular piece “Rising” choreographed by Tony Wilson will present a showcase of the Company’s progress, described as pulsating musical accompaniment, featuring solos, duets and strong group work of modern contemporary pieces fused Caribbean folk style.

Wilson described the Florida performance as “very well packaged with a wide range repertoire of sheer energy, beauty and passion,” and also featuring guest dancers from the Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre. 

He added that “The Company Dance Theatre, now in its 27th Anniversary Season, will deliver and celebrate dance with the people of South Florida” as he invites patrons to experience the stories of “The Rising”, featuring extraordinary dancers as they display some of Jamaica’s most hidden talents.

Tickets are available at the Miramar Cultural Center’s Box Office. To charge tickets by phone call (954) 602- 4500 or – www.miramarculturalcenter.org

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