NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
T H E
M O S T
W I D E L Y
CARIBBEAN
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO FACING LOW OIL PRICES SAYS PM ROWLEY PAGE A4
HAITI
BIG NIGHT GETS JAZZY IN LITTLE HAITI PAGE A7
COMMUNITY
LINCOLN PARK REMEMBERS MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. PAGE B5
ENTERTAINMENT
REBEL SALUTE: REBEL FOREVER PAGE B3
SPORTS
CRICKET STAR KIERAN POWELL MAKES TRANSITION TO BASEBALL PAGE B1
STRICTLY LEGAL
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C I R C U L A T E D
C A R I B B E A N
A M E R I C A N
N E W S P A P E R
I N
F L O R I D A
ZIKA HITS MIAMI
Virus threatening pregnant women confirmed in MiamiDade and the Caribbean
Miami-Dade Health officials are warning those traveling in the Caribbean and South America – particularly pregnant women – to be cautious of the mosquito-borne ZIKA virus, following confirmation of two cases in the county, and a third case in Hillsborough County, just outside Tampa. The disease, which has been rapidly spreading in the Caribbean and South America, were contracted by the Florida residents during their travel abroad in the region. No contractions of the disease, however, has been reported locally. Meanwhile, members of the Diaspora planning to travel to the Caribbean are being warned of potential dangers, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issues a travel alert for
In Brazil, which has been experiencing a high number of infections, there are reports of over 3,500 babies born with brain damage, with an estimated 1.3 million cases of the disease. countries currently experiencing outbreaks. The disease, known for its flu-like symptoms, has been linked to babies born with birth defects from mothers infected with the virus. In Brazil, which has been experiencing a high number of infections, there are reports of over 3,500 babies born with brain damage, with an estimated 1.3 million cases of the disease. However, the CDC notes that additional studies are needed to specify the connection between birth defects and the Zika virus infection in the mother. Caribbean countries so far with confirmed cases are Barbados, Guyana, Martinique, Haiti, French Guiana, Suriname and Puerto Rico. Other countries in the region with confirmed cases include Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, and Venezuela. On January 14, the NFP for Guyana reported the first laboratoryconfirmed case of locally-acquired Zika virus infection in the country. The case is a 27-year-old female from Berbice, Region 6, with onset of symptoms on 1 January. And on January 15, the NFP for Barbados reported the first three laboratory-confirmed cases of locally-acquired Zika virus infection in the country. Fortunately, none of the cases had a history of travel. Caribbean scientist Hallie Barclay, a specialist in mosquito-borne continues on B5 – Zika hits Miami
Lauderhill goes Art Pop!
New Arts Center to showcase city's talent The much-anticipated Lauderhill Performing Arts Center(LPAC) finally opened this week in a special ribbon cutting ceremony, officiated by Broward County Commissioner Dale V.C. Holness and members of the Lauderhill City Commission. The new center, with a 1,200-seat theater, plans to provide a showcase for the city's diverse cultural community. Local artists were on hand to show off the new facility, with the Lauderhill Steel Ensemble, Ashanti Cultural Arts and the Ethnotricity Cultural Arts continues on A6 – Art Pop Lauderhill
TALLAHASSEE
No More Sanctuary Two new state bills seek to expand ICE's reach at the city level South Florida's status as a “sanctuary” for undocumented immigrants, where many cities do not cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in detaining individuals pegged for deportation, may collapse soon if two recently proposed bills are passed in the state senate. Despite protests from advocates gathered in Tallahassee, the House Civil Justice Committee approved the “sanctuary city” Bill HB 675, sponsored by Rep. Larry Metz, R-Yalaha, which would charge $5,000 a day to police and other local officials who do not cooperate with ICE in detaining individuals with deportation orders. The Justice Appropriations Subcommittee also approved Bill HB 9, sponsored by Rep. Carlos Trujillo R-Miami, which would make it a felony to live in Florida with a deportation order. While Democrats on both committees voted against the two bills, the bills received full support from Republican representatives. One protester, a Jamaican undocumented immigrant giving his name only as “Washy,” expressed grief over the recent vote, fearing “if this law pass, continues on B5 – ICE
A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
Inaugura on ceremony Mississippi's 64th Governor, Phil Bryant (le ) stands with his wife Deborah Bryant and Consul General of The Bahamas in Miami, Ricardo Treco following Bryant's inaugura on ceremony recently in Jackson, Mississippi. – Contributed photo
Rive ng performance Dancehall ar ste Mavado delivered a powerful performance at the recently held Rebel Salute concert last weekend in Jamaica. – Contributed photo
A work of art Art aficionados admire the works displayed at the recently held “A Night of the Arts” event in celebra on of Dr. Mar n Luther King Jr at the Sunrise Civic Center last Sunday. – CNW Photo by Andres Hernadez photo
Grand Opening Officials took the honors cu ng the ribbon to mark the official opening of the new Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) on Wednesday night. (L-R): Lauderhill Commissioner Ken Thurston, Lauderhill Commissioner Margaret Bates, Professional Facili es Management (PFM) President James “Lynn” Singleton, Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness, Lauderhill Commissioner Howard Burger, Lauderhill Mayor Richard Kaplan, Lauderhill Commissioner Hayward Benson, and Lauderhill City Manager Charles “Chuck” Faranda. – Contributed photo
Celebra ng a legend Vice Mayor of Broward County Barbara Sharief shares camera lens with Chello Davis, host of the recently held Mar n Luther King Jr Day celebra on in Miramar. – Contributed photo
Customer apprecia on day Interna onal Freight Consolidators customers were out and about at the company's customer apprecia on day in Lauderhill last weekend. – CNW photo- Uriah Benne
Crowd pleaser Jamaican Rastafari dub poet and musician Mutabaruka took to the stage at the recently held Rebel Salute in Jamaica last weekend. – Contributed photo
MLK Day of Service Mayor of Miami Gardens Oliver Gilbert III addresses the crowd at the Mar n Luther King Jr. Day of Service in Miami Gardens on Monday. – Contributed photo
Come Fly with Me! (L-R) Jet Blue Manager of Airport Opera ons Samora Emmanuel, Director of Barbados Tourist Board NY. Petra Roach, Barbados Minister of Tourism Hon. Richard Sealy, Broward County Commissioner Dale VC Holness, and Jet Blue Manager Route Planning Joshua Powe gather in Ft. Lauderdale to mark the upcoming daily flights between Fort Lauderdale and Grantley Adams Interna onal Airport (BGI) in Barbados. – Contributed photo
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3 –
A3
LOCAL
Concerns over growing trafc accident rates Dr. Garth A. Rose A recent ordinary evening turned tragic for one Lauderhill family, when sons Shaquille LeGrande, 22 and Tyrese LeGrande, along with their friend Nathaniel Morgan, 25, were killed when the car they were passengers in broke through a golf-course fence in Inverrary and was submerged in a pond. Only the driver of the car, DeShawn Prince, 24, survived. This marks the latest in a recent string of unusual car accidents, caused not by collisions with other cars, but with automobiles crashing into canals or caught driving on the wrong direction on highways. Expressing concern regarding this trend surging so early in the new year, Fort Lauderdale has joined the interna-
tional Vision Zero initiative, which seeks to eliminate all road deaths and injuries. Fort Lauderdale, which has the second highest pedestrian fatality rate in the nation, plans to improve safety with new engineering, urban design and a public education platform. Fort Lauderdale's transportation manager, Debbie Griner, who was instrumental in forming Vision Zero Fort Lauderdale, believes motor accidents can be avoided if motorists and pedestrians “exercised more care and responsibility.” Highway engineer Robert Blakely of Plantation says he's “encouraged” to see Fort Lauderdale adapting the program, which has worked positively in Sweden, where it was founded. And since the program was imple-
mentation in New York two years ago, traffic fatalities have fallen significantly. “If nothing else, the program creates more awareness on proper road use by motorists and pedestrians,” says Blakely. “I hope other cities in Florida adapt the program.” Addressing the increasing frequency of wrong-way accidents on the region's highways, Blakely said, “Municipal and state transportation authorities have been relentless to ensure motorists don't drive on the wrong side of the road. There are overhead signs, brightly lit signs, sign posts, markings and bright red reflectors on highway surfaces that clearly alert and caution motorists if they are driving on the wrong side of the road, but still these accidents continue.” Blakely said every time a one-way
accident occurs, officials and road engineers react to improve highway safety measures. “Some people want deflectors which damage automobile tires installed at the entrance to highway exit ramps, but this is not plausible, since police and medical emergency vehicles often access the highways from these exit ramps.” The Florida Highway Patrol reports that one-way accidents are caused by motorists driving under the influence of alcohol. “This is something Vision Zero and South Florida's law enforcement have to zero in on,” Blakely said. “Too many motorists, young and old, are driving drunk. Plus, there's also the problem of smart-phones distracting motorists which begs more effective regulations.”
Insurance relief pending for Florida's immigrant kids Uninsured immigrant children in Florida may get some reprieve, following the House Health Innovation Committee's unanimous approval of Bill HB 89, which will use Medicaid funds to provide coverage through Florida's KidCare Program. If the bill is approved by the full House and Senate, it could provide as much as $30 million to the Kid Care program. And estimated 32,000 children may qualify. House Democratic Representative Hazelle Rogers praised the decision as a “long overdue achievement,” and is grateful Republican representatives on the committee who voted for the bill “relented on their stance against
using Federal Medicaid funding for uninsured children.” The bill was jointly sponsored by Republican House Representatives, Jose Felix Diaz, Miami, and in the Senate by Senator
Rene Garcia, of Hialeah. South Miami pediatrician Dr. Emily Dobbs sees the bill as “very positive, [allowing] more children to see private doctors and alleviate the pressures on the region's hospitals with parents taken their kids to emergency rooms, because they have no insurance to take them to private doctors.” But healthcare advocate Paula Moore says that, though she welcomes the proposed expansion, “I still want to see the Legislature vote for Medical Expansion for all low-income uninsured Floridians. The feds have the money, will provide the money, so why's
Florida punishing the poor when the money is available?” There may also be some movement on the current five-year waiting period for immigrant children to qualify for KidCare, as House Speaker Steve Crisafulli, during his opening address to the House, said it was time to open up access. “For the life of me I couldn't understand why kids living in Florida legally couldn't receive health insurance all these years,” says Dr. Dobbs. “It's costing the state millions to pay hospitals for treating uninsured legal children in emergency rooms.”
A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
GUYANA
JAMAICA
Guyana receives equipment for Local Elections
Gov't urges women to delay pregnancy
Canada has signed an agreement with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) providing CDN$20,000 for purchasing equipment to be used in the Local Government elections last held in 1994. “Canada has been a strong supporter of the electoral process here in Guyana, and we were extremely pleased when we heard of the fixed date of March 18 for the local elections,” said Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Pierre Giroux. Giroux said that local elections “are very important” and forms part of a process to bring government closer to the people. “It fosters greater inclusion, civic responsibility and empowerment and participation,” he added. He said Canada will continue to be supportive of Guyana, noting that the two countries will be celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.
The Jamaica government is urging women to delay getting pregnant for at least the next six to 12 months given the possible link between the mosquitoborne Zika virus and birth defects. The Ministry of Health said women who were already pregnant should take extra precaution to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes, as Zika could cause microcephaly, a rare neurological condition in which an infant's head is significantly smaller than the heads of other children of the same age and sex. The statement by the Ministry of Health followed complaints regarding delays by authorities in warning women against pregnancy, as has been done in other
countries where the virus had been detected. In response, Health Minister Horace Dalley said there is still no absolute proof of the link between the Zika virus and microcephaly. He said based on evidence from Brazil, information from the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and other technical partners, the Ministry of Health is seeking to prevent any possible adverse outcome to pregnant women. Dalley said the health officials have heightened their alert and are scaling up vector control activities while reminding persons to take the necessary steps to rid their communities of the “aedes aegypti” mosquito which transmits the Zika virus.
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
T&T facing low oil prices, says PM Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley is warning of the possibility of the twin island republic facing an extended period of low oil and gas prices, acknowledging that the oil-rich country is at a “critical juncture of its existence.” Addressing the opening of the Energy Conference and Tradeshow on Monday, Rowley, who has already warned that the country needs to put its economic house in order or face the possibility of seeking assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), said whether the present situation becomes a crisis depends on how the country approaches survival and management of its affairs. “The word crisis conjures certain emotions and can trigger interesting debate given the
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number of uses for this word,” Rowley said, noting that June 2014 marked the end of four years of high and reasonably stable oil prices. Rowley said to any keen observer of the energy industry therefore, cycles of rising and falling prices represent the hallmark of the oil business. He said Trinidad and Tobago is once more at the crossroads, as it considers the actions required to preserve its energy interests going forward. “We are concerned about supply and demand issues, since our energy security and economic security is at stake. We are a small state, heavily dependent on energy and until the economy is diversified our dependence remains.”
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3 –
Talk UP What's a fair minimum wage for Floridians? Mildred – Miami Gardens, FL. We talk about minimum wage. The cost of living is high and wages are low, so $11 would be satisfactory for this community. At $11 an hour, people can work hard and in time, get a raise. But to start, $11 is reasonable money.
Clyde – Miami, FL. I think a fair minimum wage should be $15. It would allow for more room for saving, rather than spending their entire paycheck month to month.
Donovan – Fort Lauderdale, FL. I've heard $15 being passed around like that they are doing in New York. I work for a living. I do “body-work” and we make a decent salary, but when you go to buy a bottle of milk, you cannot afford it. I am also diabetic and to live a diabetic lifestyle is a “no-no” in this town. The state of Florida has always been that way from my understanding, in terms of looking down at working class people. I think it's nationwide, but Florida here, they have a very bad disposition about that. I think $15 is a reasonable start for somebody to be able to buy basic necessities. I'm not talking about luxuries. That's where I stand on that.
Donetha – Miramar, FL. The cost of living is on the rise for everything here in Florida, so I do believe that the minimum wage should go up. I think $12 would be good. I think a fair way to live is to pay people more. $12 is good for starters.
Orlando – Pompano Beach, FL. $15 an hour, it should be $20 or $5000, but $15 an hour should be okay. But, if I were the president, I would make it $5000 for any black Americans or white Americans, anyone all across America.
Janet – Miami Gardens, FL. A fair minimum wage should be about $13 to $15 an hour. That's very fair. Right now, I'm getting under $12, so anything higher would be even better.
Dr. Kapgang – Hollywood, FL. I don't think a consumer would have a problem getting comfortable if they can add a little more, like an additional $6.25. I don't think that you and I would have difficulty with that.
Alicia – Fort Lauderdale, FL. Minimum $12. I think people can live better on $12 an hour than they can on $8.25 an hour. Especially considering the fact that rent usually starts at about $1000 these days. Yes, I think $12 is a fair minimum wage.
Bill – Pembroke Pines, FL. It's fine where it is right now. People start in an entry-level job, that's where they begin. It's a stepping stone and then they educate themselves, work hard, improve, work extra hours, pull themselves up by their “bootstraps” and succeed.
Carlton – Lauderdale Lakes, FL. $12 an hour. I think people can live on that. You can't allow it to go too high, because if it goes too high, you're going to kill the small businesses. Most people say $15, but you have to look at the effect it's going to have on small businesses. The bigger businesses can afford the $15, but you have to remember that a lot of people work with small businesses. Not everybody is a college graduate, so $12 will make businesses run and people will get a little extra in their pockets.
A5
A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
Many battles remain in war against cancer I
n his recent State of the Union address, President Obama announced a new “Precision Medicine Initiative” aimed at curing diseases like the ever dreaded cancer. This measure is welcomed, as the disease continues to devastate countless families. The initiative marks a return for Obama, who in his first year in office included $10 billion for cancer research in the federal economic stimulus. But America's official war on cancer began in 1971, when former President Richard Nixon signed the National Cancer Act to support the National Cancer Institute's effort in finding treatments – and hopefully a cure. There were high hopes at that time, as scientists were close to understanding the underlying causes of the disease. But, despite millions of dollars spent and over 45 years of intense research, cancer continues to wage terror on families, with a significant death rate that rivals cardiovascular diseases. This war on cancer is not relegated to America. Last week, Jamaican insurance company Sagicor Group announced it was expanding the 18th staging of its annual Sigma Corporate Run to raise over J$50 million to contribute to the Jamaican
Art Pop Lauderhill Studio giving special performances honoring the occasion. “Please, please support this performing arts center,” urged Lauderhill Commissioner Margaret Bates at the ceremony. “It's yours and needs your support.” Broward Commissioner Dale Holness said he was proud of “working tirelessly with members of the community to obtain petitions to the county commission to grant the initial $5.4 million dollars to build this facility.” He said the Performing Arts Center will bring economic development to Central Broward County “by providing jobs and opportunities for patrons to spend money within the area.” LPAC General Manager Michael Tipton said there are plans to bring “the hottest acts in music, dance,
Cancer Society. One patron of this event, is Jamaican women's 400 meters champion Novlene Williams-Mills, a breast cancer survivor who went on to compete in the 2012 Olympics and ran a sensational anchor leg for Jamaica's 4 x 400m relay gold medal at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing, China. With such personal resilience and determination as an inspiration, the war to eliminate cancer urgently needs more aggression. Since 1971, scientists and doctors have made improvements in diagnosing the disease, leading to better early detection, improved preventative measures, and less invasive medical treatment. These measures have significantly contributed to the reduction of cancer mortality rates, from 215 deaths per 100,000 in 1991 to 172 deaths per 100,000 in 2010, according to recent reports. It's obvious the war against cancer involves winning several battles. The current goal is finding effective treatments that enhances the survival rate of victims. But scientists continue to be challenged by the complexity of the disease. In the 1950s, scientists assumed viruses were the primary cause of cancer. Further research showed the disease's
connections with defective cells in the body. Current research shows a variety of defective cells affecting cancers in different areas of the body. Professor of oncology and co-director of cancer biology at John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Dr. Victor Velculescu, recently said it may have been wishful thinking that curing a disease like cancer was a straightforward task. He said it has become clear that cancer isn't a single disease or even a hundred different diseases. Rather, each case of cancer is a unique dilemma. Complicating matters, the disease does not remain static, but continually changes. This makes it necessary to continually develop new treatment measures as the disease evolves It's blatantly evident that finding effective treatments – and a possible cure – requires increased research, with much potential in alternative medical sources such as marijuana. It's hoped that funding for Obama's vital new research initiative won't be subject to the bitter, divisive politics of Washington, but will receive quick congressional approval. Because cancer never discriminates, does not see the difference among political parties, nationalities, or social groups.
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comedy and theater to Central Broward and the South Florida community.” He said the performances will range from “the best in Broadway, musical and comedy concerts, dance, and family-friendly productions.” The new center will also be available to local theatrical groups for theatrical development and productions. But one Lauderhill playwright, speaking to the National Weekly under anonymity, expressed concern regarding the facility “will be really be accessible to community theater groups. The center is being run by a management company, and I am sure it will be the goal of that company to maximize profits. I hope the city insists the center will be accessible to local groups at reasonable rates.” Funding to build the center was provided in part
by the City of Lauderhill and Broward County Commission. Construction of the center underwent some growing pains, with building delays and unexpected costs. Originally conceptualized some 10 years ago at an estimated cost of approximately $9 million, various structural issues, including a stubborn leaking roof, resulted in the facility costing closer to $15 million. But city Commissioner Howard Berger expressed confidence in the investment, and the essential role the facility will come to play in the future. “This facility will celebrate creativity and diversity in our city,” said Berger. “This will be a place where culture and community comes together.”
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3 –
A7
LA SECCION HAITIENNE
Miami remembers 2010 earthquake From solemn family gatherings to hope-filled community prayer vigils, the Diaspora across South Florida gathered on January 12 in remembrance of the over 300,000 lives lost in the tragic 2010 Haitian earthquake. Dozens of local residents, including earthquake survivors, local officials, faith leaders and activists, gathered in front of the Toussaint L'Ouverture statue in Little Haiti for a special prayer vigil, bowing their heads at 4:53 p.m. to mark the exact moment the earthquake began in Port-au-Prince six years ago. The event, hosted by activist group Haitian Women of Miami (FAMN), also included a silent march, calling attention to the work that still needs to be done in the earthquake's aftermath. The march continued on to the Little Haiti Cultural Center, where attendees participated in songs, prayers and speeches. “We are marching in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Haiti, who are after surviving the worst crisis in modern history...continue to struggle against an imported cholera outbreak that killed over 8,000 people and infected 9,000 more, unemployment, hunger, and increased human rights
abuses resulting from a volatile political climate,” said Marleine Bastien, Executive Director of Fanm Ayisyen Nan Miyami. Meanwhile, at the University of Miami campus, student group Planet Kreyol also hosted a remembrance ceremony. Speaker Felicia Knaul, director of the University of Miami's Institute for the Americas, urged attendees to maintain the same resilience demonstrated by the earthquake's survivors. “Reliance is what we can apply to fight and respond to the earthquakes
that happen every single day [and]poverty that happens in Haiti and in other places,” Knaul said. Planet Kreyol VP and senior Freddy Michaud also urged his fellow HaitianAmericans to also think creatively about how they can contribute to Haiti's development. “Haitian-American people have had an impact on the people in Haiti,” Michaud said. “The work that we do here directly influences them, and we want to make sure that we keep this moment in remembrance of them and show that work still needs to be done.”
Opposition calls for Interim Government
Opposition supporters are demanding the formation of an interim government, as Haitians prepare to elect a new president this Sunday. "We declare this week the rebellion week to block the January 24 election. We will protest in front of each voting booth and voting center," said Assad Volcy, secretary-general of Platform Pitit Desalin, who is among opposition groups demanding the suspension of Sunday's runoff presidential election. The main opposition presidential candidate Jude Celestin has already said he would not contest the polls, accusing the electoral authorities of favoring the ruling party. Meanwhile, police said that the demonstrators took to the streets in the capital, as supporters in the rural areas burned several electoral offices. They also burned vehicles, threw rocks and attacked a petrol station. President Michel Martelly, who has been prevented by the Constitution from seeking another term in office, has denied that the vote is being rigged in support of his party's candidate, Jovenel Moise. The Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has already condemned the acts of violence and has vowed to go ahead with Sunday's poll that has the backing of the international community. Last year, the US government rejected demands by opposition parties for the establishment of a transitional government to lead the country into elections.
Big Night gets jazzy in Little Haiti The ever popular Big Night in Little Haiti concert series gets jazzy just in time for St. Valentine’s, with a special Kreyol Jazz concert, set for Friday, February 19, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Little Haiti Cultural Center. This concert features a special double billing, with Jazz guitarists Bemol Telfort and Band Leaders Chardavoine and the Creole Jazz Project. Jazz guitarist, composer, guitarist, arranger and bandleader Bemol Telfort finds beauty in a diversity of themes and rhythms, and a sense of pure freedom and joy that fills great music. Fans love Bemol's natural ability to mix swing, Pop, and Caribbean rhythms combined with great composition and arrangement skills. Haitian-born/Brooklyn-based bandleader and guitarist Jean Chardavoine represents the best of modern music and the future of Haitian jazz. He is well known for his work with jazz icon Dave Valentin and the Creole Jazz Project, bringing together eight top local musicians, including Josh Allen on bass, jazz drummer Rodolfo Zuniga, pianist Vaughn Henry, and traditional Vodou drummer Jean Raymond. Fronting the band with Chardavoine is Anthony Church, an outstanding saxophonist, teacher, producer, and engineer. The event is an all-family affair, with delicious Kreyol cuisine from Leela's Restaurant, and hands-on art activities for kids, sponsored by the Positive Impact Foundation and the Kose Famn and Bass Museum of Art.
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A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
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H-1B Work Visa applications open April 1st Attorney Caroly Pedersen, Esq The USCIS is accepting H-1B work visa applications starting April 1st, allowing foreign nationals to work for U.S. employers in certain professional occupations. But with only 65,000 visas available, estimates say they will be exhausted in the first week. So the USCIS may select applications by a random lottery, if the request volume exceeds availability. Those hoping to obtain an H-1B Visa this year, particularly OPT students, should line up a U.S. employer willing to support the H-1B Visa request quickly. Preparation for filing should be completed no later than early March, including obtaining preapproval of the Labor Condition Application from the Dept of Labor. The H-1B work visa allows qualifying foreign nationals to work for a U.S. employer for up to six years and even longer when an employer sponsors the H-1B worker for a green card. To qualify, the H-1B visa requires the foreign national to possess a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent and be offered a professional position in a U.S. company. You can find out more about H-1B and other work visas by visiting our website at: www.Immigratetoday.com
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Caroly Pedersen Attorney at Law Question: Hi, I'm from Jamaica and I met my fiancé in 2014 while vacationing in the U.S. I overstayed my visa by a couple of days to stay longer with him on a trip to Disney World. When I returned to visit the U.S. last month, the airport immigration officers sent me back on the plane because they said I overstayed the last time. I applied for another tourist visa, but was told at the U.S. Consulate that I can't be issued one because of overstaying my visa. Now my fiancé is going to fly to Jamaica to marry me. What do we have to do so that I can travel back to the U.S. with him after we are married? Your help would be so greatly appreciated! Answer: Unfortunately, once you overstay your authorized period in the U.S. – by even one day – you are not allowed to re-enter the U.S. on your current visa. You will need to apply for a new B1/B2 Tourist visa at the U.S. Consulate in your home country. And Consular officers are very unlikely to issue any type f non-immigrant visa, once an individual overstays. The exceptions are immigrant visas, such as a fiancée and spousal visa. However, foreign fiancées and spouses are not issued a visa until all the technical processing is complete, which takes more than 8 months. In your case, since your U.S. citizen fiancée is going to fly to Jamaica to marry you, once he returns, a spousal immigrant petition can be filed to initiate the process of bringing you to the U.S. as a U.S. resident. However, you won't be allowed to return to the U.S. along with your new husband. You have to wait in Jamaica for consular processing. One option, which may let you come to the U.S. a little earlier, but may still take up to 6-8 months, is called the K-3 visa, which can be approved once the spousal petition is filed.
Question: I filed an application to extend my visit here in the U.S. for another 6 months and it just got denied because I could not show I had financial support to stay in the U.S. Can I get my filing fees back? Answer: Unfortunately, the USCIS rarely, if ever, returns filing fees. That's why it is so important to make sure that you qualify for a benefit before you apply. When filing to change or extend your status in the U.S., it is very important to clearly document eligibility. This includes making sure required documentation is provided, including bank statements and a letter of explanation proving the visitor intends to return to their home country once the extended time expires. Now that your request has been denied, be sure not to remain in the U.S. past your I-94 authorized stay. If you're I-94 has already expired, it's a good idea to consult with an immigration attorney about your options. ** Contributions to this column are made by Attorney Caroly Pedersen, Esq. of the American Immigration Law Center – Call 954-382-5378
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3 –
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B1
ATTORNEY
Gregory McFarlane ATTORNEY
Camille Miller
Trying young offenders as adults
South Florida Association of Legal Administrators “Adopt-a-School”
Attorney Wolde Rose
The South Florida Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators (ALASOFLA) have partnered with Miami Carol City Sr. High School for the “Adopt-a-School” program. This ceremony will commence on January 26, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Miami Carol City Sr. High School. The ALASOFLA is comprised of numerous leading law, business and affiliated organizations with interests in exposing students to the business aspect of the law profession. Several of the association's members serve on the Business Advisory Council for Miami Carol City Sr. High School. Official Proclamations from the City of Miami Gardens, Miami-Dade County School Board, and the City of Miami will be presented at the ceremony, which will designate January 26, 2016 as the official “Adopt-ASchool” date. The proclamations will be presented by city officials. The purpose of the “Adopt-A-School” ceremony is to introduce the ALASOFLA members to the Miami Carol City Sr. High School's Business and Information Technology's (B.I.T.) student body, and outline the program initiatives. The professional services include providing junior and senior students with internships at law firms and related organizations, providing guest speakers and presentations of required work-related skills, providing a $1500 scholarship to a deserving student, and sponsoring fieldtrips to business organizations in the community. The Association of Legal Administrators is one of the oldest and largest organizations, with nearly 200 members from both small and large firms, throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. The ALASOFLA is an official partner of Miami Dade County Schools through Miami Carol City Sr. High School and provides training and support through a myriad of workshops, mentoring, and extended learning activities; and diversity & inclusion committee of the ALASOFLA is committed to exposing students to the plethora of careers associated with the legal profession and other industries that serve law firms.
Trying juveniles (under age 16) as adults for violent crimes such as murder has been a strong area of debate in the legal fraternity. Contrary to what many believe, no law states that courts should treat juveniles who commit murder with more leniency. Like most states, Florida allows juveniles charged with serious crimes to be tried as adults. However, they generally do not receive the death penalty, based on a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that stipulates capital punishment as unconstitutional for anyone who hasn't reached their 16th birthday. However, some states do impose the death penalty for convicts 16 years old and over. How a juvenile will be tried is mainly left to the prosecutor's recommendation and a judge's decision. And this decision is largely influenced by the defense attorney's ability to inspire sympathy from the court. This subjective nature can, and often, leads to controversy, especially when race and class biases may have affected the case. Most prosecutors accept that if defendants under 16 were in their right mind, were not mentally challenged, and deliberately engaged in the death or severe harm of another human, then they acted in the manner of an adult. In other words, prosecutors – and some judges – believe it's the crime committed and not the age of the accused that's the primary factor. It's not unusual for defense attorneys to experience TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
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B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
REBEL SALUTE 2016
Rebel forever Music just as good, as ganja goes legit
T
he ever popular Rebel Salute concert made headlines when the event received the only second ever official marijuana exemption from government authorities, guaranteeing that no patrons would be arrested for weed possession. Perhaps this made the music at this year's concert extra magical, with stellar performances at Grizzly's Plantation Cove in Priory, St Ann, from both reggae legends and newcomers. Opening night on Friday brought a bevy of classic crooners, including the ever tantalizing Sanchez, Tony Gregory, and South Florida's own Pluto Shervington. Veterans Luciano and concert founder Tony Rebel held down the roots reggae fort, while classic groups such as The Heptones and the Congos made a stellar comeback with their vintage tunes. Praising the long-anticipated decriminalization of marijuana, long-time ganja advocate Chezidek conquered the stage. Newer acts such as Kabaka Pyramid and Kelissa held their own on stage with confident original music. In all, it was an enchanting evening despite delays and rushed sets due to an overloaded line-up; clearly the audience was just fine having too much of a good thing. Night two on Saturday was a happy family affair, as Beres Hammond took the stage to an adoring audience, who were even more thrilled when the one and only Marcia Griffiths joined him on stage for a rousing
rendition of “Live On.” Singjay Mavado made a decent showing under his real name, David Brooks, while the ever charming Queen Ifrica returned the stage to mellow roots sound. But perhaps, despite the stellar musical line-up, attendees in the years to come may most remember the concert's inaugural “Herb Curb” – an informative symposium and expo. Local and international purveyors were on hand, showing off their latest and most innovative applications of weed. Though the concert started before the symposium finished, forcing speakers to holler over the music, the presentations ran the gamut. First Man, of the Rastafari Indigenous Village, spoke about the community's persecution over the year for using ganja as part of their religious practice. Poet and broadcast Mutabaruka spoke about weed's historic significance to the Rastafari faith, as well as the commercial potential of local hemp products in today's international market. Meanwhile head of International Development at Tweed Blaine Dowdie discussed possible opportunities for international trade. Medicanja Limited's Dominic McDowell bemoaned Jamaica's missed opportunities to develop commercially weed's medically valuable compounds, and what the country needs to do to catch up. (photos by Paul Perry)
New Lauderhill Performing Center opens with Reggae Legends
The much-anticipated Lauderhill Performing Arts Center has finally opened, set to premiere its first concert with the upcoming Caribbean Musical Showcase, on March 5 at 8 p.m. The show stars the iconic “Reggae Ambassadors” Third World, the “Queen of Soca” Alison Hinds, and calypso singer/songwriter David Rudder. Third World is one of the longest lived reggae bands of all time, and one of Jamaica's most popular crossover acts among international audiences, mixing in elements of R&B, funk, pop and rock and, later on, dancehall and rap. As undisputed Soca Queen, Allison Hinds has been wooing audiences with her powerful, emotional vocals and 1 Use To Hungry high-energy live shows. And Vershon Trinidad Calypsonian David 2 What You Gonna Do Rudder will be inspiring music fans Freddie McGregor to “Rally 'Round the West Indies” 3 I Couldn’t Believe with his irresistible melodies. Chris Demontague Caribbean Musical Showcase is just one of the many hot acts 4 This Magic Moment scheduled for Lauderhill's new Vybz Kartel premiere performance space. On 5 Life March 19, the hit, explosive Skip Marley percussion show STOMP opens, with the eight-member troupe 6 Hello Fiona using everything but conventional percussion instruments – 7 Here I Come matchboxes, wooden poles, Jahmel brooms, garbage cans, Zippo 8 Play Some Roots lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage Chronixx with magnificent rhythms. Then for music fans nostalgic for good 9 My League Mavado old 90's jams, the Center will feature legendary boy band, Boyz 10 Never Played A 45 II Men, with none other than Mack B special guest En Vogue, on April 11 Try A Little Smile 23. Adele Harley
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3 –
Remembering Martin Luther King Jr.
B3
AA&CC presents “Three Little Birds” Stage adaptation of Cedella Marley's book features songs by her father Bob Marley
From celebratory concerts to prayer vigils, South Floridians turned out in full force to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, with a number of unique events scheduled honoring the civil rights leader's important legacy. The celebrations started on a prayerful note, as the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee (MLKCC) hosted the “Time for Prayer - Time for Togetherness” prayer vigil last Friday at Lincoln Park. Faith leaders and congregates gathered to pray, sing songs, and call for the safety of their children, as well as for greater unity among the community. The Caribbean Diaspora also got in on the action. In association with the City of Sunrise, the Caribbean Cultural Coalition hosted a special “Night of the Arts” at the Sunrise Civic Center. Guested toured an exhibit featuring paintings of American artist Charles Mills, known for his intimate portrait of black culture. The evening continued with a bevy of special musical performances from saxophonist Gary Palmer, the Valerie Tyson Band and the Hope Band, along with youth poets from the Jason Taylor Foundation's Omari Hardwick Bluapple Poetry Network. Dr. King's iconic “I have a dream” speech was also performed. The festivities moved on to Miami Gardens with intimate looks at civil right movement's historic past as well as thoughtful panel discussions on contemporary issues. Held on Sunday at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, the event included an immersive "Miami Gardens MLK Smithsonian" exhibit, featuring speeches, marches, personal photos and letters from Dr. King. The panel discussion – featuring City Mayor Oliver Gilbert, Ann Marie Sorrell, CEO of the Mosaic Group and Peter Bailey, producer and host of “NiteCap with Peter Bailey” – explored how to encourage economic empowerment and social action in the community. The celebrations concluded in Miramar with their annual MLK parade and concert. Local high school bands and carnival dancing troupes performed for the crowd, while city officials joined police and fire department representatives for a special motorcade. The event also included live performances at Lake Shore Park from by RL of the R&B group Next, D Woods of Danity Kane, Taylor Girls, London Young, Karena Clarke, TP9, and the Gospel Motivators.
(Top) Guests discuss pain ngs at the Charles Mills Exhibit. (Right) Par cipant praying for peace at MLK prayer vigil at Lincoln Park. (Bo om right) Kevin Cameron woos crowd at the Miramar MLK Concert. (Below) Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert at city’s MLK discussion panel
Celebrating Jamaican culture and the incredible music of Bob Marley, who would have turned 71 on February 6, The Family Fun and Smart Stage Matinee Series at Aventura Arts & Cultural Center presents “Three Little Birds,” based on the children's book by Marley's daughter Cedella. This delightful children's musical tells a tale of triumph over anxiety and centers on young protagonist Ziggy as he tries to conquer his fear of hurricanes, mongooses, the bogeyman Duppy and other aspects of life in Jamaica that render him afraid to leave the house. This lively and colorful show is woven with a score of Bob Marley's favorite songs, whose music is known worldwide for powerful messages of love, peace and harmony. The show is presented as part of the Family Fun series on Sunday, February 7 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Each Family Fun Series performance provides the ultimate family theater-going experience with free pre-show face painting, art activities provided by Young At Art Museum and complimentary post-show snacks. The show will also be shown as a Smart Stage Matinee on Monday, February 8 at 10 and 11:30 a.m.
B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
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B6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3 –
B7
CRICKET / BASEBALL
CASA kicks off Super and Master's League
Cricket star Kieran Powell makes transition to baseball Former West Indies Cricketer Kieran Powell says his surprising transition to Major League Baseball (MLB) in the U.S. is going well, despite the challenge of changing his cricket swing to fit baseball's style. Despite the surprise switch, Powell's prospects looks promising. Recently, scouts from over 14 major league teams came out to watch his performance in a private workout at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL, where he has been training for the past 5 weeks. Scouts included the Los Angeles Dodgers, Detroit Tigers, San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers, New York Mets, Cincinnati Reds, Pittsburg Pirates and Oakland Athletics. Powell was the world's 76th-ranked batsman, according to the International Cricket Council's website. The 25-year-old scored three Test centuries in 40 innings at an average of 27.48 and also played
in 28 ODIs and a Twenty20 match during a fiveyear international cricket career. But when the Nevis native was not recalled to the West Indies team following a falling out with the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) in 2014, Powell last year began to investigate a possible transition to MLB in the U.S. Regarding his early exposure to the sport, Powell confesses that “being a professional in cricket, I didn't have much time to watch many other things.” But he did “watch it [baseball] when I was younger. I used to watch a lot of Ken Griffey Jr. when I was smaller.” And as for that transition to baseball's swing, Powell says the trick is just “keeping the bat on a plane. Obviously [in] cricket, the swing is low to high and baseball, it's just staying level through, going through the strike zone, so you have as great as possible a chance of hitting the ball.”
Caribbean Americas Soccer Association (CASA) once again kicks off its annual Soccer Super & Maters League for the 2016 season.
Kieran Powell
This promises to be another exciting season, which will feature several teams vying for the 2016 CASA Super and Masters League titles. In addition to the soccer tournament, sports fans can also come see Netball Youth Sports Association's (NYSA) much-anticipated competition, playing netball at its very best. And the event would never be complete without the ever popular domino competition.
TRACK & FIELD
Bolt and Fraser Pryce RJR Sportspersons of the Year Fulfilling expectations, both Jamaican sprinters Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce have again won the RJR 2015 Sportsman and Sportswoman award respectively. This year's award is Bolt's sixth and Fraser-Pryce's third Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year titles Fraser-Pryce took home this year's award for her stellar 10.76 seconds win in the women's 100m at the IAAF World Championships in Beijing, China, as well as for her remarkable anchor leg in the women's 4×100-m relay. Bolt won the award for his achievement in taking three gold medals at the Beijing World Championships. Bolt won the 100m, 200m and the 4x100m events, making it the third
Bolt
time he had taken the triple gold at the Championships. Bolt's triumphs made him the all-time most decorated male athlete of the Championships with 13 medals – 11 gold and
two silver. Both athletes in their speeches thanked family, friends, fans, and coaches for their support throughout the year. Sprint Hurdles World Champion Danielle Williams and shotputter O'Dayne Richards were named runnersup in the Sportswoman and Sportsman categories, respectively. Novlene Williams-Mills, whose determined anchor leg lifted Jamaica to a gold medal in the World Championships 4x400m relay and who also successfully fought breast cancer, was recognised with the Chairman's Award. Former Netball Jamaica president Marva Bernard was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The opening ceremony and first round of games will be held on January 23rd 2016, starting at 5 p.m. at the Lauderhill Sports Complex. The most anticipated games include the 6 p.m. face-off between the Chivas Florida Futbol Academy's U19 team, which is ranked number 5 in the United States, and the highly competitive Lauderhill Juniors U20 team, who are the current reigning Champions of the 2015 CASA/Lauderhill Youth Classic. And at 8:30 p.m., the Lauderhill Lions FC, the reigning CASA Super League 2015 Champion, will do battle with Plantation FC, the current CASA /Unifest 2015 Champion.
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B8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JAN 21 – JAN 27, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 3
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