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Jamaica’s bobsledders call on Diaspora for support

 

Forever inspired by the cult classic “Cool Runnings,” Jamaican bobsledder Seldwyn Morgan hopes to relive the team’s Olympic experience. Two two-man teams and a female pair may have replaced the four man squad immortalized in the 1993 movie, but the difficulties remain the same in garnering support for a country not known for winter athletics.

Pilot Morgan, however, still holds the same dreams for today’s team.

“For us right now, we’re all-in. We just need the sponsorship and the equipment, the mental support from our family and friends back home. Bobsled is a very expensive sport,” said Morgan, who was competing this past week in North American Cup races at Canada Olympic Park.

Competing in Canada, the team often has to rent its sleds in order to train and compete in competitions, with a new sled costing US$100,000 – a price far out of the reach of the association.

Morgan hopes that a fundraiser in Calgary next year, which will be attended by members of the original team and many of the actors from the popular movie, will help raise the requisite funds. In the meantime, the bobsledder has called for support and more belief in the team.

“If you don’t have the right equipment to work with, it doesn’t matter how good you are,” said Morgan. “You could be the best driver in the world, but if you don’t have the right sled to drive, it would mean nothing. That’s why so many teams have an advantage over us. It’s not that they are stronger or faster. They have better resources.”

 

Diaspora voting rights will be “lengthy battle,” says Haiti PM

Prime Minister of Haiti Evans Paul

Obtaining voting rights for members throughout the Diaspora “will take time,” said Prime Minister of Haiti Evans Paul, speaking at last weekend’s National Association of Haitian Professionals (NAHP) annual conference at Florida International University in Miami.

“It’s going to be a lengthy battle for the diaspora to play its political role fully,” noted Minister Paul, acknowledging the political edge behind the strong resistance in Haiti against the Diaspora vote. “A constitutional amendment won’t resolve the issue. If I’m honest, there are people who are afraid of political competition from the Diaspora. There are some people tightening the reigns.”

Instead, the prime minister argued that advocates need to “find a way to come together with the people who are resisting the Diaspora. There is space for everyone. It is a question of patience.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Paul shifted focus on the economic benefits the Diaspora currently enjoy, from the removal of visa restrictions on descendants of Haitians, to unhindered purchasing of goods and services for Diaspora business persons.

The Prime Minister did however support the diaspora voting rights agenda, asserting that “the diaspora has to participate at the highest level in the management in the country. There should not be a rivalry.”

But the slow and steady approached to Diaspora voting rights was not enough for Haiti’s former Prime Minister Laurent Lamothe, who also served as a keynote speaker at the conference over the weekend.

“All of you who live overseas, the diaspora, you should have been given the right to vote in this year’s election,” argued Lamothe. “You work hard. You punch in early. You love Haiti. You have earned the right to vote for Haiti’s election. This is going to be a call to action, to have a unified front to take the diaspora’s political destiny in hand. The Haitian government should send a clear signal to the diaspora to tell them that their input is very important and valued. We need to stop seeing the diaspora as just a cash machine for handouts.”

Fellow former Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive, however, called for more pragmatic support from the Diaspora to target Haiti’s current economic issues. The diaspora, he said, is a huge repository for Haiti, but “loving Haiti is not enough.”

“What Haiti needs is a vision; not slogans or non-realistic promises of changing everything overnight just because you think you are better men or women than the previous team,” said Bellerive.

 

 

Star pilot inspires students with helicopter classroom

Barrington Irving

Tanicia Milton was still oozing with excitement days after famous Caribbean-American pilot Barrington Irving visited her Lauderhill school, Royal Palm Elementary, in a helicopter. Irving Barrington, who holds the record as the youngest and first black pilot to fly solo around the world, has been taking his “flying classrooms” to schools across the global for his STEM education program

“I was so excited to see this big helicopter landing!” said Milton.

Accompanying Irving were Broward School Superintendent Robert Runcie and the vice-chair of the Broward School Board, Rosalind Osgood.

Tanicia father, Delano Milton, said he is “very proud at the unique strategy Irving is taking to bring the awareness of important subjects like math and science to young students. By flying to schools, these students will never forget the importance of these subjects.”

Delano, originally from Jamaica, expressed pride “in the role my fellow Jamaicans, Irving and Runcie, are playing in education. These Jamaican men make so proud of their achievements.”

Irving also flew to Pines Lake Elementary School in Pembroke Pines, and Westwood Heights Elementary School in Fort Lauderdale. Irving also spoke with students, encouraging them to explore the STEM fields.

These recent visits are an extension of his global “Flying classroom” program. The program is normally done by satellite communication into classroom, as he travels around the world showing case studies relevant to their course work. But this helicopter visit, said Irving, allowed him to more directly engaged with local students in his home county

Superintendent Runcie supported the local initiative, calling the project “inspirational and motivational” for the students who he described as being “awe struck” by last week’s experience. Meanwhile, Irving plans to take his helicopter-classroom to more schools in South Florida.

“I really hope Irving gets will be able fly into as many schools as possible. The plane that he flew around the world was named ‘The Inspiration’ and he has been a real inspiration to the youth in America, Jamaica and globally. He has inspired my 19-year-old boy to be a pilot,” said Milton.

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A Night of Culture with Haiti First

As part of their fundraising efforts to support education and growth in Haiti, Haiti First will be hosting their annual Cultural night, set for this Saturday, November 21st, from 7 p.m. to midnight, at the Hyatt Regency in Miami.

The event will be a rich showcase of Haitian culture among the local Diaspora. Rev. Fr. Reginal Jean-Mary will serve as keynote speaker. Currently leading the congregation at the Notre Dame d’Haiti Church in Little Haiti, Fr. Jean-Mary has long served as a spiritual and cultural advocate for the Diaspora community in South Florida, and was a strong champion for the church’s new building. Cultural entertainment will also include performances from Les Petits Amis De Sainte Therese.

Haiti First is local non-profit organization established in 2006, with a clear mission to work with all sectors of the Haitians to help them achieve continuous success through technology, education, health and social empowerment. The group primarily focuses on promoting higher education and guide Haitians in reaching their full potential through ongoing development programs.

New police chief in place in Miami Gardens

Chief Antonio G. Brooklen poses for a picture after being inducted as the new Police Chief for the City of Miami Gardens at his recent Installation Ceremony

Antonio Brooklen was officially sworn in on Monday as Miami Gardens’ police chief, following his recent appointment by city manager Cameron.

Brooklen, 39, has been serving as the city’s acting police chief since February, stepping in to fill the void left when former police chief Stephen Johnson was dismissed after his arrest in a prostitution sting.

The new chief has over 7 years with the Miami Gardens Police Department, joining since it opened in 2007. Brooklen also served in the Miami-Dade police department where his career began as a Public Service Aide in 1994, at age 18.

Residents of Miami Garden say they are pleased about Brooklen’s confirmation.

“In these past few months he has handled the department well and has succeed in building rapport between the residents and the police,” said Macie Ricketts, a business owner in Miami Gardens.

“Things have been steady, and crime has declined somewhat,” said Leo Moses, another resident. “He’s from the city, so I hope succeeds as police chief. It seems each time we have a new chief in this city, something bad happens.”

Prior to Johnson, Matthew Boyd had a relatively short tenure as city police chief, and was removed amid criticism of unfair tactics to apprehend city youth and other residents in the city, whose population is overwhelmingly African- and Caribbean-American.

When Brooklen took over the reigns, there was some tension between the police and residents following the shooting death of Lovell Hall. Hall, who had a history of mental illness, was shot by police after being summoned by his mother for help to constrain him. However, when Hall attacked officers with a broomstick, he was shot.

Self-described community leader Lucille Johnson said under Brooklen’s leadership “much of the tension that existed back then with the police and the residents have calmed.”

Benson said the major factor in confirming Brooklen was his long tenure with the department, which made him “familiar with the profile and characteristics of the city, and his interaction with the community.”

Brooklen who graduated from Lynn University with a Bachelors in criminal justice/police science in 1996, and born and raised in Miami Gardens, said his primary objectives is to “create trust between the police and residents, and run a department that is totally transparent.”

He said there were too many police departments across the country that maintain distance from the community.

“I want the police department to build bridges with, not create gaps in Miami Gardens,” said Brooklen.

The city has grown significantly since it began operations in 2007, from a department of just over 100 sworn officers to over two-hundred with plans to hire new officers soon.

8 time-saving tips for busy parents

The first time around, being a parent means learning a lot of new things and approaching each new stage with caution. The second time around, moms and dads know sometimes you need to wing it and embrace the imperfections of parenthood.

Through this experience, parents, especially moms, learn some amazing time-saving, stress-busting, mind-blowing parenting tricks. Want to know the best time-tested strategies?

Here are eight genius tips to save time and money and live a stress-free life.

Smart snack storage: There’s no need to buy expensive snack food containers for all the kiddo’s goodies. When you’re done with your coffee creamer, simply remove labels, wash and fill with favorite dry snacks. These handy containers are a breeze to pop open and pour into bowls, plus the upright bottle maximizes space in cabinets.

Cut car chaos: If you have kids, you know all about car clutter, but this doesn’t have to be your reality. A canvas shoe organizer in the back seat is a fantastic way to store toys and supplies. Next, eliminate spills and goo by placing silicone cupcake liners into cup holders. Finally, a tackle box is ideal for creating a food travel kit with various snacks in each compartment.

Quick and easy diapering: Experienced moms make diaper time easier by using Luvs with NightLock. The new, larger refastenable stretch tabs make fastening Luvs diapers super quick and easy, plus moms can rest-assured knowing baby’s getting a secure, snug fit every time. Best yet: these high-quality features come at less cost than the premium brands. Parenting is full of stressful moments, so don’t let diapering be one of them.

Streamline grocery shopping: A trip to the grocery store doesn’t have to be a disaster with kids in tow. First, eat before you shop. Empty tummies make for grumpy kids who want everything in sight. Next, to keep kids focused on the task at hand, let them be shopping assistants.

Simplify dressing: If you dread putting onesies over your baby’s head, you can take a sigh of relief because there’s an easier approach. Those layered shoulder tabs on onesies mean you can stretch the neck out and dress baby from the bottom up. When it’s time to undress, simply pull down. No more wiggling, crabby baby.

Streamline midnight feeding: Don’t lose precious Z’s because it’s feeding time. Keep baby in “sleep zone” with little-to-no light and refrain from talking. Light and moms voice are extremely stimulating to baby. Another smart idea: change her diaper first so if she falls asleep while eating, you can lay her down and get back to bed quickly.

Inventive cold packs: From babies to toddlers to big kids, boo-boos are a fact of life. For little bumps, a mini-marshmallow pack is a fun way to make ouchies feel better. Mini marshmallows are lightweight, soft and hold the perfect amount of cold; all you have to do is place them in a plastic bag, seal and keep in the freezer.

Keep small hands clean: There’s no need to strain your back holding your kid up so he can reach the sink to wash his hands. An empty shampoo bottle can easily transform into a handy faucet extender. Ditch the cap and cut a hole on the bottom to hook to the faucet. Secure on the spout and the water will extend out so it’s within a child’s reach.

Experienced moms know more, know better and know that clever tips and tricks can help save time and money. That means less stress plus more time and energy for creating lasting memories with the little loves of your life.

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Plan for your children’s future without breaking the bank

College costs in the U.S. are on the rise. According to the latest College Board survey, the average price tag for an in-state public college for the 2014–2015 academic year averaged $23,410, and a private college averaged $46,272. This is a 3 percent increase from the year before.

Another number on the rise is student loan debt. Nearly seven in 10 graduates from the class of 2013 took out institutional, state or federal loans, graduating with an average $27,667 in debt.

Here are a few strategies to get a head start on saving for college that can help you avoid drowning in debt:

Estimate costs: Tuition and fees take the lion’s share of your income, with annual costs rising at about 6 percent. Start comparing public, private, community and in- and out-of-state schools to get a ballpark figure on cost, and then you can start to estimate how much you need to invest based on your timeframe and budget. There are tools and resources online to help calculate these costs, and you can always consult a financial professional for further guidance.

Start saving and investing now: With college costs on the rise, saving and investing now can pay off later. That’s because starting early allows more time and opportunity for your investments to grow — and can reduce the amount you have to borrow. Remember, it’s never too soon or too late to start saving. Every dollar saved is one less you may need to repay with interest, and automating your savings and investments will help to make sure you don’t forget.

Consider a 529 plan: Whether investing for a child, grandchild or even yourself, 529 college savings plans are flexible, tax-advantaged accounts that allow the investor to make high contributions to help the recipient pay for college expenses. These funds aren’t taxed as they grow—and no federal (and often state) taxes are applied to withdrawals used for qualified higher education expenses. It’s also a great gift alternative for holidays, birthdays and special occasions.

Borrow with care: While it’s cheaper to save than borrow, student loans can be an important tool to help close any gaps between your savings and the cost of tuition. If paying cash for college means skimping on another financial priority — like your retirement savings — student loans can help. Some options allow the student or parent to begin paying off the interest while they’re still in college, so be sure to explore the different types of loans to find the one that’s right for your situation.

Balance college savings with other life priorities: Investing in your or your children’s education is a goal that should be set with other life priorities. Instead of tapping into your nest egg to cover tuition costs, consider all funding sources to avoid jeopardizing your financial health, including financial aid, grants and scholarships. Seek the help of a financial professional to assist in balancing your goals with your finances.

It’s never too early to start preparing for the cost of college. Whether you have a 2-year-old or 16-year-old child at home, or if you’re thinking about going back yourself, college is a worthwhile, but significant investment that requires financial preparation.

TalkUp: Do you have to be regular church-goer to be a ‘good’ Christian?

CNW90: Airport workers go on strike at Hollywood International Airport in Ft. Lauderdale

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, November 20, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

A new study reports that the number of international students enrolled in US universities increased dramatically in 2014, by 10 percent, according to the Institute of International Education. China and India are the two largest sources for the surge, making up nearly 45 percent.

Workers from Lauderdale/Hollywood International airport joined in a nationwide protest yesterday for better working conditions in the industry. Though the group copped a major win last month, after a county commission decision ruled to increase wages, the protest intended to highlight the unfair labor practices at other airports.

Eminent Trinidadian novelist and historian Michael Anthony will be reading from his work tonight at a special reception, starting 6:30 pm at the Trinidad and Tobago Consulate General’s office in Miami. Representatives from the Writers Union of Trinidad and Tobago will also be reading from their work.

Netball teams from across the Caribbean head to Coral Springs this weekend for the 2015 Senior Florida Netball Classic, set for Saturday and Sunday at the Coral Springs High School gymnasium. Defending champions, Business House and JUTC teams from Jamaica will be returning to defend their crown.

What’s trending:

Following the recent terrorist attacks, France has extended their state of emergency to the French Caribbean. 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:

Scattered thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 83 and a low of 72. For Miami-Dade, scattered thunderstorms with a high of 83 and a low of 73. For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. 

PHTK wins big in Haiti municipal elections

Haiti’s ruling PHTK party won more than 30 mayoral races including the capital, Port au Prince, according to results released Tuesday by the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP).

The candidates and parties which contested the October 25 elections had three days to challenge the results.

The results of the elections, which coincided with the first round of the presidential race to replace President Michel Martelly, who is barred from seeking a third consecutive term by the Constitution, showed there had been a low turnout voters.

In the capital for example, where more than 500,000 were eligible to vote, the PHTK won the seat receiving just over 10,000 votes.

The winning candidates will take office only after any challenges are ruled on by electoral tribunals.

In the presidential elections run-off on December 27, the PHTK candidate Jovenel Moise will come up against the main opposition candidate Jude Celestin.

FL scholarships in the works for Grenadian students

Grenadian Minister of Education, Simon Stiel stands with Deputy Consul General at the Consulate General of Grenada in Miami; Yolande Y. Smith (left) and Managing Director and owner of Grenadian-based company, ComServ; Isabelle Slinger; following the Grenada Townhall Meeting last Saturday in Lauderhill.

A new bond program is in the works for Grenadian students to attend universities in South Florida, says Grenada’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Simon Stiell. Speaking at a Diaspora town hall meeting this past weekend in Lauderhill, Minister Stiell said the government is working with top tier local institutions to place students in the nation’s top priority fields, including tourism management, technology, education, architectural preservation and the sciences.

“It was important that these scholarships relate to the nation’s priorities,” said Minister Stiell in an interview with National Weekly. “So we can fill the gaps where we don’t have sufficient human resources.”

Tackling the educational needs of Grenada’s youth is “a high priority for Grenada,” said Minister Stiell, citing the record 50 percent youth unemployment when the New National Party came into power in 2013.

This new program however, says Stiell, will seek to protect tertiary education investment. Under the new policy, students would receive scholarship support and additional privileges (such as in-state tuition rates) in exchange for a two- to three-year bond in public or private employment in Grenada within their field.

This approach will vastly differ from programs form the past, where “provisions were not made for [students’] return,” said Stiell. “This time, we will identify places for students before they leave, so that when they return that can bring value to their workplace, and carry real responsibility.”

Minister Stiell spent a week touring facilities and discussing potential programs with officials at the University of Miami, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University and Miami Dade Community College. Stiell confirmed that university officials will also be visiting Grenada in the coming weeks to explore the establishment of fully certified online classes for local students, as well as satellite campuses on the island.

Attracting another education institution in Grenada would also be a major economic boon for the island, said Stiell. Revenue alone from St. Georges University equates to 25 percent of the island’s GDP.

The Minister also discuss establishing exchange programs, where South Florida students, including Caribbean-American scholars, come to Grenada to study specific fields, from marine biology to climate change.

“Grenada offers students a safe destination and the chance earn an incredible life experience,” said Stiell.

Airport workers go on strike at seven US airports

Workers from Lauderdale/Hollywood International airport joined in a nationwide protest on Wednesday for better working conditions in the industry. Though the group copped a major win last month, after a county commission decision ruled to increase wages, the protest intended to highlight the unfair labor practices at other airports.

The workers joined more than 2,000 workers, including cleaners, wheelchair attendants, and baggage handlers that went on strike at airports in Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Newark Liberty and New York’s Kennedy and LaGuardia airports.

The walkout is part of a growing national campaign for a $15-an-hour minimum wage for the lowest-paid airport workers who keep terminals and plane cabins clean, move bags and transport people with disabilities. They work for contractors that serve all major airlines, and some of them are making hourly salaries as low as $6.75, union leaders say.

Airport workers across the U.S. have held protests, marches and rallies over the past three years, calling for better pay and benefits. Some workers say the low wages force them to work two or three jobs to sustain their families.

Foreign enrollment at US colleges sees biggest growth in 35 years

According to a recent Open Doors Reports on International Educational Exchange released by the Institute of International Education, the number of international students enrolled in US universities increased dramatically in 2014, by 10 percent, the highest rate of growth in 35 years.

The strong growth of international students confirms that the United States remains the destination of choice in higher education, with China and India making up the two largest sources for the surge, making up nearly 45 percent.

The report also found the number of U.S. students studying abroad increased by five percent in 2013/14, the highest rate of growth since before the 2008 economic downturn.

The Open Doors report is published annually by the Institute of International Education in partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Int’l netball teams head to Florida for Senior Florida Netball Classic

Netball teams from across the Caribbean head to Coral Springs this weekend for the 2015 Senior Florida Netball Classic, set for Saturday and Sunday at the Coral Springs High School gymnasium.

The two-day event is split into a junior and senior competition, with countries in the junior section vying for the competition trophy, while countries in the senior competition will compete for a cash prize.

Defending champions, Business House and JUTC teams from Jamaica will be returning to defend their crown.

 

Top 4 jerk restaurants in Jamaica

Has Grace Jamaican Jerk Fest wetted your appetite for more? Learn more about the homeland of jerk by eating your way through Jamaica at these iconic locations, from roadside eateries to adventurous culinary tours.

Scotchie’s Jerk Center – Island-wide

scotchies-jerk-center

With locations near Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and in Kingston, the jerk lover can follow the Scotchie’s jerk trail across the whole island. The franchise started in the coastal community of Coral Gardens, and soon got so popular that they opened a second location in Drax Hall just minutes outside of Ochi. With comfortable seating and a welcoming, airy atmosphere, this location is ideal for people in transit. Smack dab in the middle of the island’s capital, the Kingston location is just as much an oasis of flavor. The menu features an excellent selection of succulent jerk pork, chicken and sausages. There are also delicious fish dishes available for those who are not of the pork persuasion.

Jamaican Jerk Outback Adventure – Ocho Rios

Jamaican-Jerk

Get the culinary adventure of your dreams at the truly unique Jamaican Jerk Outback Adventure. This gourmet boot-camp is a hands-on cooking experience offered at the historical Great House at Prospect Plantation in Ocho Rios. Class takes place in the “Sea View” kitchen, on the veranda of the historical house 1100 feet above sea level. Each person will have their own work station with a clear view of Chef “Irie,” as he guides you in the preparation of your own Jamaican fare. Prepare your own Prospect’s Special Blend Jerk Sauce, coconut “run down” with shrimp, and more.

Boston Jerk Center – Boston Bay

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Boston Jerk Center is an organic, literally home grown mall focused around jerk cooking. The legendary center features seven jerk pits, fresh fruit juices, and even a resident DJ, DJ Sheppy. As a truly organic and rural community-created experience, it is also very much a network of related families. Many of the center’s Jerkmen have ancestors who were among the original jerk masters that first made the iconic dish for commercial sale. The center is also home to the third and fourth jerk pits that ever existed in the world: Ivy’s Jerk Center and Shaggy’s Jerk Shop, respectively. The iconic bay is also home to Jamaica’ thriving surf scene, with a nice jerk lunch being the perfect pick-me-up between waves.

Ossie’s Jerk Center – Negril

ossie-s-jerk-centre-jamaica

A small wood shack with outside tables under a roofed patio located on the Morass side of Norman Manley Boulevard in Jamaica’s “Capital of Casual” Negril, Ossie’s Jerk Center has a solid reputation, not only for its tasty jerk dishes but also for its outstanding “must-have” sauces. A rare gem that’s as popular with locals and visitors alike, this spot is perfect for those seeking home-cooked goodness. The atmosphere is also as delightful as the affordable food, this spot is definitely worth a stop for anyone vacationing in Negril.

 

Spice up everyday recipes with a healthy and adaptable ingredient

When it comes to entertaining, each season has its own unique characteristics for traditional dishes and dinner party themes. But who says you can’t break the rules and step outside the box with a versatile and innovate menu item? Whether you’re hosting or simply making a fall family meal, Spanish olives are the secret ingredient you’ve been searching for.

Full of vitamins, the good kind of fat and naturally sugar-free, Olives from Spain can help naturally lower your cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of both heart attack and stroke. That’s a lot of power in a tiny package. Just one serving of these olives provides only 35 calories and 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat, which makes it a great substitute for foods high in saturated fats. Additionally, each of the four types of Spanish olives adds a unique flavor, from smoky to vibrant and robust. And don’t forget that olives contain the four basic tastes – acidic, salty, sweet and bitter.

Let Spanish olives add ingenious flavor to your fall cuisine with these delicious dish ideas:

Appetizers, side dishes and tapas

While Spanish olives are already considered an elegant hors d’oeuvres, there are plenty of ways to spice up your typical olive platter.

* Try mixing Olives from Spain with smoked or salted almonds. Toss the mixture with a splash of olive oil and serve at room temperature. The two flavors truly complement each other.

* Have you ever thought of pairing olives with other fruits, like berries or watermelon? Pick your favorite fruits and Spanish olives and toss them in a bowl. Serve chilled with a dusting of black pepper.

* Using skewers, slide Spanish olives, bell pepper chunks, mushrooms or any other preferred vegetables into kabobs. Watch them sizzle in a pan or on the grill as the flavors combine.

* If you’re looking for a way to spice up traditional deviled eggs, Spanish green olives are just the trick you need. When making the filling, mix yolks, mayonnaise, olives, finely chopped celery and black pepper.

The main course

As an excellent source of nutrition, olives can give almost any meal a boost. Whether they take center stage or support the overall flavor of the dish, you can add olives to almost anything.

* Pair savory with sweet when you combine ripe black olives from Spain with juicy, sweet oranges in a non-traditional salad. Add sliced red onions and pomegranate seeds and you’ll be showcasing the versatility of Spanish olives.

* When serving salmon, combine with bacon and lentils to bring out the smoky flavor. Garnish with Gordal olives and chives for a hearty finishing touch.

* Top hot pastas with Spanish olives for an unexpected burst of flavor. Toss them in whole for a bold accent or simple sprinkle on chopped for a delicate addition.

* When you’re slow roasting a stew, use olives to add richness and depth. Green Olives from Spain have a briny taste that will provide an unexpected element to your recipe.

Make Spanish olives a staple in your pantry and the delightfully appetizing possibilities are endless.

Chicken with Lemon and Olives

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts

1 cup Green and Black Olives from Spain

2 preserved lemons, rinds removed and thinly sliced

1 lemon, juiced

4 sprigs rosemary

1 cup loosely packed parsley leaves

Olive oil

Salt and pepper

Directions:

* Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

* Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large, heavy bottomed, sauté pan over medium high heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. When hot, add the chicken breasts skin side down. Cook until skin is golden brown and the skin is crispy, about 4-5 minutes.

* Flip chicken breasts over, add the rosemary sprigs to the pan and place the entire pan in the oven. Cook until the chicken is just cooked through, about 10-12 minutes, or until a thermometer reads 150 degrees internally.

* Remove the chicken from the pan, add the olives, preserved lemons, lemon juice, parsley, and about 1/4 cup EVOO to the pan — this will be the sauce.

* Divide the chicken between four plates, heat the sauce over medium heat and spoon evenly over the chicken breasts.

* Serve while hot and enjoy with a vegetable side such as roasted onions or carrots.

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South Plantation HS goes “Singing in the Rain”

Broward County Public School Superintendent Robert Runcie (back row-5th from right) poses with the “Singing in the Rain” cast at the Paladin Playhouse Theater

The classic Broadway musical “Singing in the Rain” made its grand premiere this weekend, with umbrellas and all, at the Paladin Playhouse Theater in South Plantation High School.

Director by award-winning theater teacher Jason Zembuch, this production tells the tale of Don Lockwood, his sidekick Cosmo Brown, and aspiring actress Kathy Selden on their hilarious journey making a “talkie” in the waning day of Hollywood’s silent era.

Young budding actress Tajah Lee, originally from Jamaica, says she’s thrilled to be starring in the classic production, playing the female lead Kathy Selden.

“Theater has been such a passion of mine for so long,” says the young thespian, who hopes to continue studying theater at university.

The young cast also enjoyed a special guest for the production’s premiere weekend. Broward County Public School Superintendent Robert Runcie stopped by and had a quick dinner with the cast, and also cheered them on for their first showing. Runcie congratulated the group on their performance, as well as the program’s strong commitment to the arts. The Paladin Players are a award-winning and highly regarded drama program in the county, with elaborate fall and spring productions every year, thanks to the financial (and moral) support from the South Plantation Friends of the Theatre, who fundraise for the program every year.

The show goes on (as it must) this weekend at the Paladin Playhouse, this Friday and Saturday, November 20th and 21st, starting at 7 p.m., and on Sunday, November 22, starting at 2 p.m.

Jamaica could stand out in ganja industry – Minister Hylton

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Anthony Hylton,

 Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Anthony Hylton, says Jamaica already has a head start with brand recognition towards establishing a legal cannabis industry.

Speaking at the Swept Away Resort in Negril on Saturday, November 14, on the final day of a Beckley Foundation two-day conference on Jamaica’s Cannabis Reforms, the Minister said that no country has “a greater opportunity than we here in Jamaica to leverage the country brand association with marijuana.”

He added that the cannabis industry, previously seen as a negative, now holds much growth potential for Jamaica, with opening markets in the U.S., the Netherlands and Canada, which recently announced plans to legalize the cultivation, sale and recreational use of cannabis.

“The implications are already sending ripples across the world. Indeed, once the cannabis industry fully develops, there exists a clear opportunity for trade in cannabis given Jamaica’s strong brand and long-standing trade partnership with Canada,” the Minister said. “We are now witnessing the transformation of the once obscured and mainly underground marijuana industry, which has been steadily gaining increased traction globally.”

The conference examined the developments in Jamaica and a number of other countries in the regulation and legalization of the cannabis industry, and the economic opportunities of the opening market.

Page 2: November 19, 2015

Actor Omari Hardwick of Starz’s hit show “Power” shares camera lens with Miami Gardens City Manager Cameron Benson (left) D’Rene Benson, and Miami Gardens Councilwoman Lisa Davis.

T&T at risk now more than ever – PM Rowley

Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Keith Rowley

 

In response to the terrorist attacks in Paris last week, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Keith Rowley, says the country is more vulnerable than ever to such attacks.

Comparing today’s conditions with the attempted 1990 coup, the Prime Minister argued that the nation “must know that we are not just vulnerable, but we are more vulnerable now than in 1990. We have to be vigilant in every single area. We have to be always vigilant and cognizant that we are exposed as everybody else in the world to this particular threat.”

He also assured the public that the question of returning T&T-born foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) was being addressed. Former National Security Minister Gary Griffiths estimates that at least 30 citizens had become terrorist fighters.

Prime Minister Rowley also clarified current National Security Minister Edmund Dillon’s comments that “ Isis wasn’t a threat to TT.”

“There are a couple statements attributed to Mr. Dillon. One of the perils we face [as politicians] is we are subjected to interpretation and angles,” said Rowley. “I don’t know that he was saying Isis is not a threat. This thing called Isis is a global threat and if anyone understands that, it’s the National Security Minister.”

CNW90: Bolt faces two American contenders in IAAF’s Athlete of the Year award

ok at some of the top stories making the news today, November 19, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Tomorrow, over 300 immigrant students from high schools throughout Broward County will present their legislative policy proposals to local elected officials at the Close Up – Broward Youth Policy Summit Expo at the Don Taft University Center. This event is a follow-up to the 2014/15 Close Up – Rally to the Tally, where hundreds of recently arrived local immigrant students traveled to Tallahassee to present their legislative agenda to elected state officials.

Health and Human Resources Secretary Sylvia Burwell stopped by Miami yesterday as part of a local campaign to boost Florida enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance exchange. Reports estimate that over one million Floridians eligible for the program remain uninsured.

The Jamaican Women of Florida will be hosting their second annual “Ole Tyme Jamaican Gran Market” on Saturday, November 21 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Christway Baptist Church in Miramar. The event will feature both local and Jamaican vendors specializing in arts and craft, gourmet food items, cosmetics and jewelry.

In sports, Double Olympic and World Champion Usain Bolt is to head into yet another clash with American athletes as he and two others make the final cut for IAAF’s Athlete of the Year award. Joining Bolt on the three-man shortlist are American decathlete Ashton Eaton and triple jumper Christian Taylor.

What’s trending:

Commonwealth heads are set to ratify support for Guyana in border dispute with Venezuela at upcoming heads of government meeting in Malta. 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:

Scattered thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 84 and a low of 72. For Miami-Dade, scattered thunderstorms with a high of 84 and a low of 73. For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. 

Barbados to end AIDS by 2030

Executive Director of UNAIDS, Michel Sidibe, says Barbados is on track to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

During a recent visit, Sidibe congratulated the National AIDS response on its progress, noting that based on the data, the island could be among the first to “break the backbone of the epidemic.”

Barbados’ Minister of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment and Community Development, Steven Blackett, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to fast-tracking the HIV response. He noted that in the new phase of the AIDS effort, Barbados is addressing the social determinants which support transmission, including inter-generational poverty and transactional sex.

Sidibé assured officials that UNAIDS is advocating for increased focus on investments in fragile communities in order to ensure that middle income countries are not left behind.

“We need to band together to demonstrate that the concept of low and high income countries is obsolete,” said Sidibé. “How do we finance vulnerabilities? We need to focus on more fragile communities, not fragile countries.”

The UNAIDS Executive Director also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to facilitate collaboration on the UNAIDS Fast-Track initiative, validation for the elimination of mother to child HIV Transmission, strategic information and legal and policy development throughout the region.

Bolt among finalists for IAAF Athlete of the Year Award

Usain Bolt to receive Lifetime Achievement Award from BBC Sports
Usain Bolt

Double Olympic and World Champion Usain Bolt heads into another clash with American athletes as he and two others make the final cut for IAAF’s Athlete of the Year award.

Joining Bolt on the three-man shortlist are American decathlete Ashton Eaton and triple jumper Christian Taylor.

The 29 year old Jamaica retained his 100m, 200m and 4x100m titles at the world championships in Beijing in August. The American decathlete Eaton, won gold with a world record 9,045 points at the championships, while triple jumper Taylor won gold for triple jump, the second best jump in history.

In the women’s category, the three finalists are Genzebe Dibaba, Dafne Schippers and Anita Wlodarczyk.

Man killed in Opa-locka after reportedly attacking officer

The Miami-Dade Police Department is investigating a police shooting of a 25-year-old in Opa-Locka.

Reports are that early Wednesday morning, an officer saw Cornelius Brown at a convenience store, acting carelessly. When the officer drove into the parking lot, Brown walked away. The officer then followed in his patrol car.

When Brown reached NW 32nd Avenue, officers report that Brown jumped on the patrol car and smashed the windshield, then turned towards the officers, who shot him. It is also alleged that Brown had a broomstick which he used to attack the officers.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Brown’s family reports that Brown had mental issues, but was never violent. They have also said that the shooting was not justified and have hired an attorney.

 

HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell pushes Obamacare in Miami

Health and Human Resources Secretary Sylvia Burwell

Health and Human Resources Secretary Sylvia Burwell was in Miami on Wednesday as part of a local campaign to boost Florida enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance exchange.

Burwell toured an enrollment center at Miami Dade College’s Wolfson Campus and met with South Florida healthcare leaders.  She also held a press conference where she introduced a Miami small business owner currently is under the ACA insurance exchange who pays only a small fee per month.

Burwell also repeated slogans about the “affordability” of health plans sold on the exchange and spoke to how simple and easy enrollment has become with new user-friendly features, such as an “out-of-pocket cost estimator” tool that debuted this year on healthcare.gov to help consumers estimate their plan deductibles, co-payments and other expenses.

Reports estimate that over one million Floridians eligible for the program remain uninsured.

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