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US further eases trade, travel restrictions on Cuba

The United States further eased restrictions on business and travel with Cuba Friday, as it presses forward in rebuilding long-frozen relations with its former Cold War foe.

Two months after formally restoring diplomatic relations with Havana, the US made it easier for Americans to establish and operate businesses in Cuba, removed remittance limits, and widened travel opportunities to the Caribbean island nation.

It also cleared up small, but for businesses, irksome restrictions that had prevented representatives of US businesses working in other countries from taking their own computers into Cuba, and which blocked the use in the United States of Cuban-developed apps for cellphones and computers.

The new moves further break down the sanctions that were in place since the early 1960s until President Barack Obama reversed course by announcing an opening to the communist country last December.

Immigration Q&A: Job Sponsorhip

Question: I have a new immigration opportunity that I would like advice on. Since I can’t find someone to genuinely fall in love and marry to get a green card, I have worked with a lady as a housekeeper for over a year now and she would like to know if it’s possible to sponsor me to get my green card through my job. She was told she could file a form I-140 to start the process. Will this work?

Answer: Yes a U.S. employer can sponsor your residency, but no, it won’t allow you to work or get residency under current laws. Since May 1, 2001, immigration regulations say that (most) immigrants with expired I-94 cards are not eligible for residency in the U.S. through family and employment sponsored petitions. But the Dept. of Labor does have a process called “Labor Certification” or PERM, which allows U.S. employers to apply, regardless of the immigrant’s status. But, once the Labor Certification is approved, the next step is to file for a visa. That’s when everything falls apart.

As long as the U.S. company otherwise specifies, the USCIS will approve visas, but because they do not have legal status, they are not eligible to adjust status to residency. So it’s really a waste of time and money. In my opinion, it does little good to have the process done, only to end with no improvement. Many times scammers will charge immigrants through the entire process, only to tell them they aren’t eligible.

Ambassador Thomas presents credentials to US President

Jamaica’s new ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Ralph Thomas, officially presented his Letter of Credence to the President of the United States, Barak Obama during a ceremony held in the oval office at the White House on Thursday, September 17, 2015.

President Obama in his remarks said, “Jamaica and the United States are tied together by history, culture, family and most importantly by friendship.” He expressed strong support for the government and people of Jamaica and for the continued development of the special relationship that exists between the two countries.

In recounting his visit to Jamaica in April, President Obama said he was heartened by the warm reception he received from the people of Jamaica and pointed out that in the meetings he had with Prime Minister the Most Honorable Portia Simpson Miller, great progress was made to deepen and strengthen our cooperation in the region.

The US president said that the town hall meeting at the University of the West Indies reaffirmed his conviction that the young people of Jamaica are poised to lead their country to new and greater heights and that the US continues to value Jamaica as a true leader of the Caribbean.

In presenting his Letter of Credence to the President of the United States, Ambassador Ralph Thomas said that during his tenure, he would work to further deepen and strengthen the relationship between Jamaica and the US. “Over the years, Jamaica and the United States have shared a strong fraternal relationship which has been to our benefit and it is my firm intention to facilitate as much as possible the further strengthening of this bond.”

Ambassador Thomas noted that the discussions that took place between Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller and President Obama identified priorities for engaging with the United States, including issues such as: energy; trade and investment; competitiveness; youth-related matters; immigration and deportation.. These he said are key issues he intends to focus on while in office.

He pointed out that the United States remains our most important trading partner and the island continues to attract a significant number of American tourists. He said it is his aim to work at increasing the trade ties and tourism arrivals between the two countries, as we both seek to cement the economic recovery process and increase opportunities for our people.

Jamaica values the tremendous support now being extended with respect to development financing in the areas of energy; climate change and disaster management which emanated from the high-level meetings held earlier this year, with Vice President Biden.

Ambassador Thomas reiterated the Government’s deepest appreciation for the invaluable assistance provided by the United States Government in helping Jamaica to secure critical funding from the International Financial Institutions, in particular the agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

He noted that Jamaica has made significant strides with respect to meeting the targets set by these institutions. The austerity effects on our social programmers have been grave but the Government is steadfastly pursuing various avenues to spur growth and attract investments to the island, which will ultimately be to the benefit of our people, especially the less fortunate in our society”, he said.

Jamaica’s envoy to Washington was appointed Jamaica’s twelfth ambassador to the United States by Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller on August 21, 2015. Previously, he was appointed Ambassador to the Republic of China in 2013 and focused on strengthening relationships between the two countries in key areas of development.

A former teaching fellow at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona School of Business and Management, Ambassador Thomas has experience in multinational banking and trade finance and served as Vice President of the Bank of New York during his twenty two years with that institution.

A “Crowning” Achievement: Dental crowns and bridges

Though dental crowns and bridges make be an essential tool in modern dentistry, time can’t take away the significance of this extraordinary technology. When tooth structure falters due to decay or fractures, crown and bridges can restore both normal function and cosmetic appearance. And unlike removable devices such as dentures, crowns and bridges are cemented onto existing teeth or implants.

Crowns: Why they work

Placed over the degraded tooth, crowns are used to replace fillings, protect weak teeth, or restore fractures. And whether made from ceramic or porcelain fused to metal, the crown can be sculpted to look as natural as possible when located near the front of one’s smile. How we perceive our smile and appearance can affect our self-esteem and how we function in social and business relationships.  So, when this situation occurs, there is a sense of urgency.

Bridges: Why they work

A bridge, designed to fit over gaps, may be recommended if you’re missing one or more teeth. Gaps can eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces, creating a bad bite. This imbalance can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. To prevent this, bridges are cemented to the natural teeth surrounding the empty space. And like crowns, you have a choice of materials. Your dentist can help you decide which to use, based on location, function, aesthetic appeal and cost.

How are they made?

The tooth is prepared to allow enough room for the crown or bridge to fit over the tooth or teeth without extending too far and interfering with the person’s bite.  This procedure usually takes two visits, depending on the situation. Between appointments, a temporary acrylic crown or bridge is cemented over the teeth.  In the second visit, the crown is “tried in” to check both fit and color. If both the patient and dentist are satisfied, the crown is permanently bonded to the tooth.

How long do they last?

While crowns and bridges can last a lifetime, they do sometimes break or fall out. The most important step toward ensuring longevity is to practice good oral hygiene. A bridge can lose its support if the teeth holding it in place are damaged by disease. Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing twice daily. Be sure to see your dentist and hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings. Avoid chewing hard foods (including bones), ice or other hard objects.

Jamaica PM Portia Simpson Miller to be keynote speaker at Jamaican American Bar Association Gala

The Jamaican American Bar Association has announced that Jamaican Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller, will serve as keynote speaker at their annual Grand Gala and Awards Ceremony, set for November 7th at the Sheraton Hotel in Dania Beach.

The ceremony will recognize outstanding members of the Diaspora’s legal community and will feature a performance by Marcia Griffiths.

Miami Broward Carnival: Survivor’s Guide

We’re waiting in eager anticipation for the upcoming Miami Broward Carnival 2015, set from Wednesday, October 7 to Monday, October 12. But such a marathon of fetes require some serious preparation. Check out these six tips to have your best, most easy Miami Broward Carnival yet!

Stay cute (and comfy)

This may be obvious, but for Carnival, no matter how cute your shoes are, leave your strappy sandals at home. All that jumping, gyrating and marching needs some more serious foot support. Instead, opt for cute sneakers in bright colors (ideally matching your band costume.)

Stay sun safe

Just because you don’t sunburn doesn’t mean you don’t need protection. Keep that skin sexy for all your carnivals to come with strong, waterproof sunscreens with high SPF. Some sun blocks also come in beautiful shimmering tints that add a sexy, soft glow while protecting your skin.

Keep hydrated

Hard core Carnival soca aerobics can burn a lot of energy. Between your favorite “adult” beverages, be sure to drink lots of water to keep your body hydrated and ready to march to the beat all day long. No one likes to poop out early from beer fatigue.

Get a plan

A little pre-planning can go a long way. Pick your carnival schedule for the week in advance and stick with it. Pace yourself. It’s also best to pre-purchase discounted tickets online rather than at the door. And don’t just watch! Playing mas is a must-do experience, so check out the many bands accepting late registrations.

Get the goods

An event like Miami-Broward Carnival demands some good old Caribbean home-cooking. Playing mas is no joke; you need some seriously delicious carbs like roti or dumplings to carry you through. So avoid the lines at your favorite Caribbean restaurant by placing bulk orders in advance for pick up.

Get a ride

With people coming from across the state and around the world for the festivities, save the pain of traffic by carpooling with friends, and be sure to assign a designated driver. If you get stuck in traffic, at least you’ll be stuck together, jamming to your favorite soca tunes.

Barbados Minister blames U.S. for rum industry woes

 

Barbados’ Commerce Minister Donville Inniss has given the United States a tongue lashing for continuing to support Puerto Rican and US Virgin Islands rum producers with a “cover-over” tax at the expense of Caribbean rum producers.

He argues that the policy presents a significant challenge to manufacturers and goes “against the fundamental tenets of fair trade.”

Cover-over subsidies are annual payments from the US government to the US Virgin Islands (USVI) and Puerto Rico out of federal excise taxes. When a bottle of rum is produced in either the USVI or Puerto Rico, and then sold in the US, the federal excise tax on that bottle is returned to its place of production.

“It has done and can do considerable damage to the economies in the region, and we have been lobbying over and over again for that cover-over tax to be removed,” he said as he addressed a recent West Indies Rum and Spirit Producers Association cocktail reception.

Before an audience which included the European Union’s Ambassador Mikael Barford, Inniss argued that the tax made it difficult for regional rum to compete in the U.S. market against similar products being manufactured in the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Feel fit at any age

Check out our lifestyle tips for a healthier you no matter what age.

20s

Exercise: Do what you love

Keep up with the team sports you loved at school by starting regular matches with your fellow alumni. Team sports are a great way to keep up with friends, while motivating you to keep fit.

Nutrition: Clean up your act

A slower metabolism in your 20s means the same junk food of your adolescence carries bigger consequences. Think prevention: start by reducing sugar intake and avoiding fast food.

Supplements: Multivitamins, fish oil and probiotics.

30s-50s

Exercise: Flex

To maintain strength and flexibility, try regular strength training three to five days per week to prevent the progression of muscle loss that begins around age 35. Yoga can also reduce stress.

Nutrition: Less more often

Optimize young metabolism and healing by eating smaller meals more frequently that are packed with lean protein, as your body burns more calories when consuming protein.

Supplements: Add vitamin D and turmeric extract as a great natural anti-inflammatory agent.

50+

Exercise: Keep Limber

Regular strength training three to five days per week maintain muscle and bone strength to prevent falls. To reduce risk of injury, try low-impact sports like swimming and cycling.

Nutrition: Apple a Day

Strengthen your immune system with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, from five to 10 servings a day. Lean protein also helps preserve muscle mass.

Supplements: Add calcium for osteoporosis and creatine to reduce muscle decline.

CNW90: Lauderhill Police make big arrest in city’s Flakka scourge

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, September 21, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Lauderhill Police made a big breakthrough this weekend in the flakka scourge plaguing the city, following the recent arrest of 8 residents accused of being a part of the distribution ring. Authorities say the recent arrests will lead to more leads to curb the synthetic drug epidemic in Broward County.

Guyana’s Vice President Carl Greenidge is defending statements during his recent visit at the Florida Conference on Caribbean issues, as the Venezuelan government accuses Greenidge of attacking the Maduro administration over their current border dispute. In a public statement, Greenidge says he only commented on points of law at the conference, and that “Guyana will continue to pursue” its rights.

West Palm Beach will soon enjoy a window into The Bahamas thanks to new weekly radio show, The Scoop on The Bahamas,” premiering September 24th on 900 AM The Talk Radio Palm Beaches. Sponsored by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, the half-hour show will focus on heritage festivals and other cultural events on the island.

West Indies Cricket legend and former captain, Sir Vivian Richards, has given his blessing to the controversial appointment of 23-year-old Barbadian Jason Holder as Test captain, arguing that his youth could be a boon. Holder replaces Trinidadian Denesh Ramdin following the Cricket Board’s decision.

What’s trending:
Popular Jamaican novelist and Diaspora leader in Atlanta, Anthony Winkler, passed away this weekend. The awarded author was 73.
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 88 and a low of 73. For Miami-Dade, scattered thunderstorms with a high of 88 and a low of 73.
For more information on these and other stories, visit cnweeklynews.com.

Jamaica’s representative to the OAS presents credentials

Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Ralph Thomas, presented his credentials as Jamaica’s new Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), on September 18, to Secretary General of the OAS, His Excellency Luis Almagro at its headquarters in Washington, D.C.

In his remarks, Ambassador Thomas reassured the Secretary General that Jamaica is fully committed to the OAS charter and the organization’s essential purposes.

“Today, I underscore Jamaica’s commitment to the principles and objectives of the OAS, including the promotion of democracy, the protection of human rights, the maintenance of peace and security and the advancement of sustainable economic development throughout the hemisphere,” Ambassador Thomas said.

He pointed out that Jamaica is willing to work constructively towards the fulfillment of the mandates emanating from the Summit of the Americas and the General Assembly, which were held in April and June, respectively.

Ambassador Thomas expressed interest in working with the Secretary General, the Assistant Secretary General, as well as colleague Permanent Representatives in the restructuring of the Organization, to ensure that it fulfills the objectives outlined in the Strategic Vision for a more efficient, effective and responsive Organization. He also committed to supporting OAS processes and programs that will build on best practices and shared solutions.

Jamaica’s new Permanent Representative to the OAS pointed to some of the challenges that the region faces, including Problems of mass migration and increasing irregular migration Organized crime, terrorism, drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, arms smuggling and unacceptably high murder rates, particularly due to gun violence.

He further pointed out that violence against women and the exploitation of our children along climate change and the threat posed especially to the very economic survival of small states which too often have to rebuild most if not all of their infrastructure after the passing of a severe weather condition. Ensuring sustainable development in the face of high debt burdens.

“These are challenges that the OAS can help Member States to address in partnership with other international actors,” the Ambassador said.

Ambassador Thomas pledged Jamaica’s continued strong and full support for the OAS.

In his remarks, Secretary General Almagro lauded Jamaica for its tradition of providing leadership in the regional and sub-regional level. He is confident that Jamaica will continue to lead the way in the organization for a better understanding of peace and corporation among countries.

Earlier in the day, Ambassador Thomas held a private meeting with the Secretary General. The Jamaican Ambassador was accompanied to the OAS by Jamaica’s Alternate Representative to the OAS, Mrs. Julia Hyatt; the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Jamaica, Mrs. Marsha Coore-Lobban; Minister-Counselor for Trade, Mrs. Ariel Bowen; his wife Mrs. Sandra Dixon-Thomas and other members of his family.

Also attending the ceremony, held in the Gallery of Heroes were the Assistant Secretary General, Ambassador Nestor Mendez; the Chair of the Permanent Council, Ambassador Hugo Cayrus; as well as Permanent Representatives from CARICOM countries and the rest of the region.

CNW90: Whopping 9 Caribbean athletes join FSU’s track and field signing class

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, September 18, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Robert W. Runcie spoke in DC today as a special panelist for President Barack Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative. Runcie discussed the District’s efforts promoting educational opportunity and career preparedness. The discussion was part of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s annual Legislative Conference.

Broward County is set to approve new regulations to restart Uber operations in the county. But Uber representatives are objecting to some proposed regulations, including a ban on hiring convicts released in the last seven years, drivers who committed crimes of “moral turpitude,” and the payment of any outstanding fees before resuming operations.

Local PBS station WPBT2 has acquired the rights to broadcast new documentary “La Belle Vie: The Good Life,” by local filmmaker Rachelle Salnave. The award-winning film is both a critique of the complex classism that has shaped Haitian society, as well as Salnave’s own exploration of Haitian identity among the Diaspora.

In sports, Florida State University Track and Field will get a big Caribbean boost this season, with a whopping 1 Bahamian and 8 Jamaican athletes joining the university’s track and field signing class – making up almost a third of the 24-member class – a record number in the program’s history.



What’s trending:
Popular Miami singer Gloria Estefan will be performing for Pope Francis at Madison Square Garden during His Holiness’ visit to New York on September 25.
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 87 and a low of 74. For Miami-Dade, scattered thunderstorms with a high of 87 and a low of 74.
For more information on these and other stories, visit cnweeklynews.com.

Five reasons soup is the new sandwich

In the era of insulated lunch bags, it’s time to think outside the sandwich and opt for improved and wholesome lunch options like soup. Here are five “souper” reasons why:

* Soggy bread relief: Juicy tomatoes and dollops of mayonnaise make the sandwich, but drippy ingredients and layers of deli meats are a recipe for soggy bread. The fix? Fill a thermos with a wholesome, organic soup and pack a side of crunchy toppings. Cheddar Bunnies make great kid-friendly croutons.

* Convenience: Everyone loves a classic ‘wich, but not all good things come between two layers of bread. Save time spreading mustard and think soup. Thanks to recyclable carton packaging technology, soup is as easy as pour and heat. Yes, soup is science.

* Warmth: When it’s freezing outside, biting into cold cuts and iceberg lettuce isn’t helping the situation. Enter a pipin’ hot thermos of soup. Take that, winter.

* Extra veggies: Some say soup was invented by a magician to trick kids into eating vegetables. One thing is certain, you can’t trick kids into eating the unwanted, especially in between two slices of bread. The good news? Many soups, like Annie’s new Organic Tomato Soup has 1/2 cup of blended vegetables per serving. Now that’s magic.

* Organic: Bread only needs four ingredients – water, flour, yeast and salt – but not according to many conventional bread brands with long lists of hard-to-pronounce additives. Annie’s Certified Organic Soups are made without artificial flavors, synthetic colors, preservatives and high fructose corn syrup. Go on, put your spoon where your mouth is.

CNW90: 1in 4 Miami-Dade homes still underwater

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, September 17, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Miami-Dade commissioners have rescinded their vote to rename a street after Cuban-American real estate tycoon Jose Milton. The vote came just days after news leaked of another lawsuit against the Milton Corporation for racial discrimination, accusing the company of blocking black renters from their properties.

A new report shows that 23 percent of Miami-Dade and 19 percent of Broward homeowners still owe more on their mortgages than the value of their homes. The new number of homeowners underwater however marked a decline, vastly improving from the 50 percent of underwater South Florida homeowners in 2010.

Celebrating the 32nd independence anniversary of St. Kitts and Nevis, the St. Kitts and Nevis Association of Florida will be hosting their 17th annual Dinner and Ball, set for this Saturday, September 19th, starting 6:30 pm at the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. The event will feature their signature cultural showcases and performances.

In sports, South Florida-based Jamaican swimmer Alia Atkinson has been confirmed as one of the stars competing at the upcoming FINA Swimming World Cup in Dubai come November. This will be a homecoming for Atkinson, who earned her first world record at another international competition in Dubai last year.

What’s trending:
Jamaican writer Marlon James has made history by becoming the first ever Jamaican novelist
shortlisted for the UK’s Man Booker Prize, for his book, “The History of Seven Killings.”
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:
Thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 84 and a low of 75. For Miami-Dade, thunderstorms with a high of 84 and a low of 75.
For more information on these and other stories, visit cnweeklynews.com.

Jamaica mourns loss of renowned novelist Anthony Winkler

Considered one of Jamaica’s most gifted and successful writers, Jamaican born novelist Anthony Winkler died peacefully at his home in Georgia last Friday.

Born in Kingston in 1942, Winkler attended schools in Kingston and Montego Bay, before migrating to the United States at the age of 21 to pursue his bachelors and masters degree in English.

A popular contributor to many post-secondary English literary texts, Winkler published numerous works of non-fiction and nine books of fiction that were sold worldwide, of which The Lunatic became the most known and beloved, earning him a spot on best-seller lists.

Among his many accomplishments include receiving the Jamaica’s Musgrave silver medal in 2004, and the gold in 2014 for his achievements in Literature. He also received the Townsend Prize,in 2014 a biennial literary award recognizing the achievement of Georgia fiction writers.

Although much of his life was spent in the United States, Winkler was very active in the Jamaican community, serving as president of the Atlantic Jamaican Association for two terms. He also coordinated hurricane Gilbert relief efforts in 1988 and helped to bring plays from Jamaica to the United States.

At the time of his death he resided in Atlanta, where he lived for many years with his wife Cathy, who survives him.

Bunji Garlin & Damien Marley join forces to deliver “The message”

Trinidadian soca star Bunji Garlin and Jamaican Grammy-winning reggae artist Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley have teamed up on “The Message,” a passionate forward-thinking song fighting for the souls of our youth and the future generation.

The two Caribbean artists merge soca, dancehall and reggae into a universal sound on this world cry anthem, produced by Philip Mecksepe.  The two artistes go verse for verse addressing society’s illls and Marley delivers a powerful hook aspiring for change.

Marley is slated to perform in Garlin’s homeland on October 30th, 2015 in Tobago at Pigeon Point (Colours Of Reggae) and October 31st, 2015 in Trinidad at Hasley Crawford Stadium (Reggae On The Bay Presents Hennessy Artistry).

Lauderhill Police make big arrest in city’s Flakka scourge

Lauderhill Police made a big breakthrough this weekend in the flakka scourge plaguing the city, following the recent arrest of 8 residents accused of being a part of the distribution ring.

Some of those arrested are allegedly part of a violent street gang.The eight men faced a bond court judge Friday afternoon.

Flakka has hit epidemic levels in Broward County.The synthetic drug which acts as a powerful stimulant has been blamed for bizarre behavior like a man running naked through the streets and an incident where a man tried to break down the front door of the Fort Lauderdale police department.

Authorities says the recent arrests will lead to more leads to curb the synthetic drug epidemic in Broward County.

Former Jamaican PM calls for unity

 

Former Prime Minister of Jamaica P.J. Patterson has urged the ruling People’s National Party (PNP), to unite ahead of the upcoming general election.

On Sunday at the public meeting of the party’s 77th annual conference, Patterson said it is time for healing as the party seeks to consolidate its position and win the next election,that is constitutionally due by December 2016.

“This is a time to heal,” he declared, while appealing to the Party delegates to “ensure that the good health of our Party is restored.”

Patterson was speaking against the background of an outbreak of disunity in several constituencies, where incumbents are being challenged for the right to represent the Party in the upcoming election.

“Let us remember the good seeds that our Party sowed, so that we can reap when the time of harvest comes,” he added.

Patterson, who led the PNP, while being Prime Minister, from 1992 to 2006, told thousands of delegates and supporters at the public meeting yesterday, that it was important for the Party to remain in government, in order to maintain Jamaica’s good name in the international community.

FSU recruits Jamaican high school athletes

Florida State University (FSU) has recruited several top Jamaican high school athletes in a bid to bolster their performance at the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Championships.

Among the recruits are sprinter Shauna Helps, hurdler Peta Gaye Williams and high jumper Safia Morgan.

Gaye Williams broke the Class One 100 metres hurdles record at the Boys and Girls’ Athletics Championships this year, Morgan won the Under-20 girls high jump at this year’s Carifta Games and Helps will forego her final year of high school to take up a full scholarship at the Tallahassee-based institution.

“It’s actually a very comforting feeling, not just because of the freshmen coming in. ,” FSU’s website quoted Helps as saying.

“I know them from high school in Jamaica, we’ve been through numerous Champs and numerous national teams. It’s great that I come here and know that they have my back and also the freshmen have my back. It’s great all round”.

Other Jamaican athletes recruited by FSU are jumper Keneil Grant, thrower Kellion Knibb and sprinters Edward Clarke, Raheem Robinson and Chad Walker.

Politics shift as Caribbean-Americans elected officials term out in 2016

A new political landscape may be on the horizon as many local Caribbean-American incumbents with expiring terms seek new political offices in the 2016 elections. Some may have a high hill to climb, as newcomers will be seeking to fill the offices vacated.

One of the more visible elected offices whose term ends during November 2016, is Florida Representative Hazelle Rogers, who has represented District 95 in Broward County since 2012, and District 94 from 2008 to 2012. But Rogers, who previously served the Lauderdale Lakes Commission from 1996 to 2008 has her eyes on Lauderdale Lakes’ mayoral campaign against incumbent Barrington Russell, who also terms out next November.

“Lauderdale Lakes has been my home for over 30 years and every decision made in that city affects three generations of my family and that’s very personal for me,” says Rogers. “I have a vision which will resonate with every resident and business owner in the city.”

Rogers says she plans to continue improving some of the programs and partnerships she initiated as commissioner, including strengthening the Economic Development Advisory Board and maximizing relationship with the city’s property owners.

To date three candidates have registered to contest the District 95 seat being vacated by Rogers. The candidates include Surinamese-American Roxanne Valies a board member of the national Institute of Caribbean Studies and regular advocate for the Diaspora on Capitol Hill and at the White House. As the first Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce President selected to serve two consecutive terms (2011-2013), she also founded the accompanying Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Roxanne told National Weekly her goal is to “take the breadth and depth of my community experience and education and put it to work for the betterment of District 95. I will be a voice for access to the American Dream for all its residents with an emphasis on education and economic opportunity.”

It’s speculated current Lauderdale Lakes Mayor Russell could also be a contender for the District 95 seat, but attempts to contact him for confirmation was unsuccessful. Another potential candidate, also unconfirmed, is Lauderhill Mayor Richard Kaplan.

Meanwhile, to date four candidates have registered to challenge incumbent District 9 Broward Commissioner Dale Holness for his seat. The challengers include Florida Senator Chris Smith whose term ends next year. Holness said he understands anyone’s rights to seek any office, but is confident his record of accomplishment and “tireless work” in securing jobs and empowering District 9 residents and those of Broward County will speak in his favor at the polls next year.

Obama wants deeper relationship between US, Jamaica

President Barack Obama and Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller during a bilateral meeting in April.

President of the United States, Barack Obama, says Jamaica is a vital partner in the fight against transnational crime.

“We have supported your exemplary effort by providing training and equipment to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Jamaica Defence Force as well as working to improve overall security within the Caribbean basin,” the President told new Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Ralph Thomas.

At a ceremony in the Oval Office at the White House on Thursday, when the ambassador presented his credentials, President Obama said the US is also working with the Government of Jamaica to improve the country’s energy diversity and security.

“The Jamaica Clean Energy Programme, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will help pave the way for clean energy development in Jamaica. Clean, diverse and reliable sources of energy are keys to ensuring the economic prosperity of your island,” he added.

The President welcomed the ambassador, and said he is looking forward to working together, “to advance our common agenda as we deepen further the strong and abiding friendship of our two countries”.

Pope Francis arrives in Havana to kick off tour of Cuba, US

Pope Francis meets with Haiti’s Voltaire

Pope Francis arrived in Cuba Saturday on the first leg of a high-profile trip that will also take him to the United States, highlighting his role in the rapprochement between the Cold War foes.

Cuban President Raul Castro and Havana’s archbishop, Cardinal Jaime Ortega, greeted the pope at Jose Marti airport.

Looking smart in his papal whites — though minus his usual skullcap, which was blown off by the wind — a smiling Francis shook hands with the pair and blessed a group of children who presented him with flowers.

Thousands of people lined the road into Havana, which was decked out in giant posters of the Argentine pontiff.

Speaking to journalists on the plane, Francis said the world was “thirsty for peace.”

Francis was due to give a speech on arrival, and then retire for the day before launching into a packed itinerary that will also take him to the Cuban cities of Holguin and Santiago before he heads to Washington.

St. Kitts & Nevis Independence Spotlight: Clinton Wilson

Born in: St. Peters, St. Kitts

Lives in: Miramar

Moved to FL: 1993

Life’s passion: Clinton, wife Cheryl, and mom-in-law Dahlia founded the popular Fancy Loaf Caribbean Bakery and restaurant in Miami, which specializes in “small island” breads, pastries, dishes and other treats. The family decided to open up shop after seeing “very little for ‘small islanders,’ as the larger islanders love to call us.” “Our main staple is our Butter Bread,” says Clinton. “As island people we love our butter bread. It’s light, tasty and can be eaten by itself or with meat – but Kittians love saltfish.”

Miss most about home: For Clinton, childhood in St. Kitts meant being outside enjoying nature’s bounty. “I use to drink all the coconut water I wanted for free,” recalls Clinton. “Now we pay for coconut water because they just found out it’s good for you. And don’t even talk about soursop. I would never trade my childhood for anything. Give me soccer over Xbox any day.”

Love most about the Diaspora: From good home cooking to regular domino nights, Clinton has made it his goal to “create that same island vibe atmosphere at the bakery.” “We are very small but hard work people, resilient and proud,” says Clinton.

St. Kitts & Nevis Independence Spotlight: Avonelle Hanley-Green

Born in: Nevis

Lives in: Fort Lauderdale

Moved to FL: 1988

Life’s Passion: Avonelle balances life here as a businesswoman, proud mother of two, and “proud founder and vice-president of the Nevis Association of South Florida.” In particular, Avonelle prides herself in instilling the Nevisian cultural legacy for her children, so they can appreciate where their roots. “I love being able to reminisce about the beauty of life on the island and contrast it with life here. And at the same time discuss life here in the Diaspora.”

Miss most about home: Like our other interviewees, though she enjoys her work as a Medicare sales representative, Avonelle does find herself at times longing for “the slower pace and the more laid-back lifestyle” of Nevis – “just the fact that we knew each other on a personal basis, and we cared about and for each other.”

What makes her a proud Nevisian-American: Avonelle is most proud of her piece of the American dream, from achieving a college degree to “putting my own two children through college, and seeing one of them graduate.” But she also most cherishes the opportunities she has “to assist my family and other back home in various ways.”

St. Kitts & Nevis Independence Spotlight: Elvis “Charles” James Sr.

Born in: Basseterre, St. Kitts

Lives in: Miami

Moved to FL: 1990

Life’s Passion: As secretary of the St. Kitts and Nevis Association of Florida, Elvis most loves “seeing our people come together for the betterment of all,” particularly at the Association’s annual Dinner and Ball (set for this Saturday at the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel). This special event lets the community “look at the overall picture and focus on putting aside political views and personal gains.” Elvis says the association is committed to “assisting persons both here in South Florida and the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.”

Miss most about home: Though grateful for the opportunities in America, Elvis misses the pace of life. “Living in St. Kitts is less hectic. Having a population of 53,000 makes it possible to know almost everyone – and everyone already knows you, especially if you’re a ‘liming’ person.”

Love most about the Diaspora: Elvis cherishes the close intimacy and support of the Diaspora community in Florida, particularly following the loss of his beloved wife who passed away in 2008. The home they shared, says Elvis, “was called St. Kitts’ Miami embassy” – always open to compatriots looking for a few welcoming friends and warm laughter.

Canadian company opens large-scale gold mine in Guyana

A Canadian company has opened a large-scale gold mine in a remote section of Guyana.

Toronto-based Guyana Goldfields Inc. plans to produce more than three million ounces of gold over the next 17 years at its US$250 million site near the South American country’s border with Venezuela.

Production started Wednesday, a day after an opening ceremony with dignitaries including President David Granger. The mine is expected to employ some 500 workers.

Officials say it’s the biggest gold mine in Guyana since Omai Gold Mines Ltd. ceased operations in 2005. That mine was shuttered after waste overflowed into a nearby dam and caused an environmental disaster.

Gold is Guyana’s main export and generated nearly US$1 billion in revenue in 2013. But earnings have since dropped because of weaker gold prices.

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