National Weekly December 1, 2016

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48

N E T W O R K T H E

M O S T

W I D E L Y

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

FIDEL LIVES ON IN THE HEART OF THE CARIBBEAN A5 Thoughts from the South Florida community

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N E W S P A P E R

I N

F L O R I D A

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A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48

Rebel Salute Hopeton Lindo and Queen Ifrica at Club Euro during the Launch party in Downtown Fort Lauderdale (Photo By: Gail Zucker Photography)

Fete Dayz A 70s and 80s themed dance with Mark Swaby (le ), Radcliffe Reid (center) and Lenworth Samuels held at the Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes (Contributed)

Time for Togetherness Hazelle Rogers with members of the community as she gives back during the Thanksgiving holiday (Photo By: Uriah Bennet)

Irie Vibes Brothers Melvin and his brother pose for a quick photo during a pre-Thanksgiving dance. (Contributed) Happy Birthday Celebra ng her 60th Birthday, Barbara Drummond poses with her daughter during the party (Photo By: Uriah Bennet)

Elected again!

Barbara Sharief, was elected the Mayor of Broward County for the second me, and is sworn in by Broward Circuit Court Judge Ilona Holmes at the County Government Center in Fort Lauderdale. (Contributed) All America City Commissioner Margaret Bates gets sworn in this past week for another term to take Lauderhill into 2020 (Photo By: Uriah Bennet)

Thanksgiving Feast to go Ian Richards, newly elected commissioner Veronica Phillips and other community officials gave their me to help the less fortunate at the Merrell United Methodist Church (Photo By: Uriah Bennet)

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LOCAL

Seniors to pay more for Medicare South Florida seniors, over age-65, who are beneficiaries of Medicare, the federal healthcare program for seniors, will pay more for the benefit as of January.

According to the spokesman for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), as of January 1, 2017 the monthly Medicare Part B premium will be increased by 10 percent to $134 from $104.90 in 2016 for those earning $85,000 or less.

Medicare Part B covers physician services, outpatient hospital services, certain home health services, durable medical equipment and

medical items.

However, for seniors who are recipients of Social Security benefits the real increase will be from $104.90 to $109. The reason for this is the stipulation in the Social Security that correlates increase in Medicare premiums to the dollar increase in monthly Social Security benefits. Last October the Social Security Administration announced a 0.3 percent, or approximately $4.00 per month in Social Security payments, which is relatively on par with the $4.10 increase that beneficiaries of Social Security will pay for Medicare.

However, seniors who are not yet Social Security beneficiaries and those entering the

Medicare program next year will pay the new premium of $134.

A local study conducted in March indicated 22 percent of South Florida's population were Medicare recipients, and 19 percent of the Caribbean-American population Miramar Caribbean-American resident, Horatio Nugent, 72, attest to having “absolutely no reservation whatsoever” in paying the increase. Nugent has nothing but positive comments about Medicare. “As I age I develop several medical problems; however, every doctor visit to my primary physician, to specialists, to hospitals, and to a pharmacy for medication is covered either in full or almost in full by

Medicare. I think this is the best healthcare service offered by the US government.”

But Nugent's wife, Millicent isn't too happy.

She'll be entering the Medicare program for the first time next year, and will have to pay the $134 premium. “What bothers me,” Millicent said, “is every time the government gives seniors a little increase in our Social Security Checks they also increase Medicare. So we don't get any real increase from Social Security. Still, I am looking forward to the great benefits I see my husband constantly receive through Medicare” People with annual incomes over $85,000 and up to $107,000 per annum will pay new Medicare premiums of $187.50.

Major change in South Florida school choices for 2017 A new state law that becomes effective on January 1, will enable students in South Florida students to attend any public school in the region, once space is available at that institution of choice.

Prior to this, parents were restricted to sending their children to public schools based on their residential address. However, it was discovered that several parents tried, and succeeded, in circumventing the system by using the address of friends and relatives to send children to preferred schools outside of the residential school zone.

A possible downside of the new law is that parents or students will not be eligible for transportation by county school districts if students attend school in another county.

Jamaican-American Delores Lewis, whose children attend high school in Coral Gables, Florida, said she is “overjoyed” with the new arrangement. “I wanted my kids to attend a school with less of a Spanish influence than they are receiving at their current school in Miami. I have found such a school in Southwest Miami, and the kids, and my husband and myself are very happy with this.”

On the other hand, another CaribbeanAmerican parent Lilly Mckenzie who lives in North Miami, has been trying to have her two

middle-school sons transferred from a school in Miami Gardens to another in Miramar, but the desired school has no space . Mckenzie said, “I have no problems in transporting the boys to and from school, but they won't be able to transfer for the next semester, as the school I want them to go has a long waiting list.”

However, the Broward County school district has also announced a policy indicating that it will not enroll students from outside the school district to a school where enrollment is 102 percent or more of capacity.

The list of schools with available space in the country will be released by the end of November, and applicants can be submitted to these schools as of December 1.

While schools in the Broward County School district have received admission requests from parents and students in MiamiDade, parents from Broward County are also trying to transfer their kids to schools in Palm Beach County. In response Palm Beach County announced that it will make the list of schools with available space for students seeking to transfer from outside the district in January, but new applications will not be accepted before April, 2017.

The Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach County school districts will offer the priority for transfer to new schools to students residing in the county rather than those from other counties, depending on space availability.

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JAMAICA

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Ruling JLP wins Local Government elections

Ruling party in TT wins Local Government elections

The ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) emerged victorious, taking control of eight municipal corporations in the long overdue Local Government elections held on Monday.

According to preliminary results from the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ), the JLP won in eight municipal corporations – Kingston and St. Andrew, Portland, St. Mary, St. Ann, Trelawny, St. James, Clarendon and St. Elizabeth.

The opposition People's National Party (PNP), that previously controlled the councils, won in the parishes of Hanover, Manchester, Westmoreland, St. Catherine and the Portmore Municipal Council.

However in the eastern parish of St. Thomas - the vote is tied.

Following the announcement of the outcome late Monday, Prime Minister Andrew Holness told JLP supporters at the party's Belmont Road headquarters in the business district of New Kingston, that this is an endorsement of the Government's performance since winning the February general election.

“Jamaica is saying you have performed - but we are not taking it for granted, we are going to work even harder, because the situation at the central government is still tight and there is no room for error or complacency”.

While supporters of the JLP celebrated at the party's headquarters and across the island, it was a subdued atmosphere at the Corporate Area headquarters of PNP, where party's leader Portia Simpson Miller was noticeably absent.

In addressing the small crowd, PNP General Secretary Paul Burke, said the party had inadequate funds going into the election.

Concerning its defeat at the polls, Deputy General Secretary of the PNP, Julian Robinson said a review of the party's performance will be conducted.

In Monday's poll 489 candidates competed for 228 divisions. The preliminary results state that the JLP won 131 divisions to the PNP's 97.

The final count of the ballots will begin on Tuesday morning.

Both the ruling People's National Movement and the main opposition United National Congress (UNC) are claiming victory in Thursday's Local Government elections.

Preliminary figures show that the PNM, which had controlled eight of the 14 municipal regions in the 2013 elections, won seven and tied with the UNC for another. The UNC improved on the last outing holding on to its six corporations, while tying with the PNM for the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation.

The PNM has won 83 electoral districts and the UNC's 54.

“We in the PNM, we are very pleased with the results, we entered this campaign at a particularly difficult time for Trinidad and Tobago...from the moment we got into government we were governing in very strained circumstances and, not surprisingly, there were some people who were disappointed that things were not as rosy at it should be,” PNM and Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley told reporters.

But UNC and Opposition Leader Kamla Persad Bissessar said that the results showed that the population was not pleased with the Rowley-led administration that won the general elections in September 2015.

Tonight I believe is a victory for the people of Trinidad and Tobago. We asked that the people send a message to the Government that there was so much pain and suffering that the time for change has come,” she said, adding that the citizens had sent that message to the government.

“We trust that the Rowley Government received that message,” she added.

None of the other political parties, including the Congress of the People (COP), the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ) and the Independent Liberal Party (ILP) made any inroads into the traditional base of the two main political parties.

BARBADOS

Barbados confiscates skin bleaching creams

Barbados health authorities say they have confiscated creams being advertised here to lighten their skin amid various health concerns.

The Barbados Drug Service (BDS) said the creams found on store shelves are advertised to lighten the skin, but which may also cause a variety of complications.

The BDS said that under the instructions of the Barbados Pharmacy Council, it has confiscated all products deemed to contravene the Second Schedule of the Pharmacy Act, CAP 372D. “There has been a surge in the use of steroidal creams to lighten the skin. The creams are being sold in some beauty supply stores in Barbados. These products are given various names designed to attract attention as beautifying agents, without any warning of the dangers of using them,” the BDS said.

The Drug Service has identified the list of complications from using these products as atrophy or wasting away at the site of application, rosacea, irritancy, and allergy, among other complications. It further advised that the internal absorption of topical steroids could cause a mild Cushing's syndrome reaction, or could suppress the patient's own cortisol supply.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48 –

Talk UP

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TALKUP

What are your thoughts on Fidel Castro's passing?

Frederique: Plantation/Jamaica – It's sad to see of anybody when they pass, so I have mixed emotions on that one. He did some good, and some bad, so I'll leave it at that. There should be room for growth now, so let's see what happens. It's a good opportunity to now pave a new way, so we'll see.

Kettly: Sunrise/Haiti – He was a good man. I come from Haiti and he took a lot of students (to study) for free to be a doctor. So many great countries we have, and so many people don't know how to read and write. Healthcare is free over there; if I want one of my kids to be a doctor, I don't have the money and this is the best country in the world according to everybody. But thank God I am here, I don't have anything to complain about.

Jason: Sunrise/New Jersey – I am not sure that the death of Castro will change many things for the Cuban people, but hopefully it might be a step in a new direction. I don't know much about the situation, I know that Raul is taking over, I know that we are sort-of mending relations as far as the embargo goes, but hopefully, when one leader dies, one can maybe change things, hopefully for the better.

Aisha: Plantation/North Carolina – Well, I think that some people are actually mourning his death, and some are happy about it. I hope this is for the better. Based on what I've heard, I think it's going to be for the best, but it's kind of contradictory because the people that he worked alongside were those that believed in justice and equal rights, so I don't know.

Rene: Plantation/New Jersey – It's hard because he was such a terrorist. He killed people and [his rule] was just not a good thing, so I would hope for a new regime to give people more freedom and to be able to have relations between the US and Cuba; that would be really good. I hope that the people will have more freedom and more of a democracy than a dictatorship; that their livelihoods will change.

Keith: Lauderhill/Jamaica – I see Fidel as a major figure. He and his government contributed enormously throughout the wider Caribbean and Jamaica. Nonetheless, there are some things that are very controversial where he is concerned, but if we look at things in a wider context, history will determine him as a force to be reckoned with in terms of the achievements. For me, I am in the middle.

Earl: Plantation, Spanish Town, Jamaica – I think that it's good for the country. I know a lot of people who were oppressed, they weren't happy with the way life was. I feel sometimes change is needed, so let's see what happens going forward. I hope that the country can thrive now, that the country can come together and they can prosper and the economy can start booming; they can start building.

Rochelle: Sunrise/Jamaica – I don't think that anyone should be celebrating anyone's death, but I do (understand) the people of Cuba who were antiCommunism, they see this as somewhat of a victory, it is a bit of freedom for them even though he was no long in power. My hopes for Cuba is that this would probably bring them more together as a nation because I know that they are divided on certain issues.

Derek: Plantation/Panama – I don't know [of] him that well, but it's sad that he died. One thought is who is going to be the President of Cuba now? I hope they stay strong. It's kind of messed up that people are celebrating, I don't agree with that – everybody should have some type of compassion because it is a death, even if you didn't like him – it could have been your parent or your father, you know?

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CASTRO The Friend and the Foe

Fidel Castro, Cuba's revolutionary leader and president from 1959 to 2008 has died at age 90. Because he was in the background of Cuba's and international politics for the past 8 years the grand celebration at his death by South Florida Cubans seem anticlimactic.

However, thinking objectively, some may appreciate Cuban exiles celebration of Castro's death as the end of a difficult era. Thousands fled Cuba after 1960 as Castro unfolded communist policies, including state control of land and businesses, restriction on the free press, arrests of dissidents and cancellation of free elections.

For others, Castro was a paradoxical personality. Some, despite his autocratic control of Cuba, and his fierce reaction to opponents of his policies, nonetheless herald him for his resilience, and tenacity for his ideological beliefs. Fidel Castro

never swayed from his belief in social equality for his people. His beliefs brought him strong aggression from American presidents since 1960 when he removed Cuba from being the playground of rich Americans and American mobsters, towards a close relationship with America's arch-enemy, the Soviet Union.

Cuba's significance in the international policies of former Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev, and the resistance Khrushchev received from former US President John F. Kennedy over building Russian missiles on a Cuban base almost led to nuclear war

in 1962. And, even when the Soviet Union disintegrated in the early 1990's resulting in Cuba losing Soviet financial and other support, Castro didn't flinch in his commitment to achieve social equality among Cubans.

For five decades, Castro steadfastly resisted opposition and several US attempts to remove him from power. He remained one of the world's more tenacious leaders, despite all the hardships Cuba incurred, particularly from the US trade-embargo which severely denies the Cuban people of provisions most of the free world take for granted.

Jamaicans old enough to remember will recall the influence Fidel Castro had on former Jamaican PM Michael Manley in the 1970s. The recollection for some Jamaicans may be similar to the contempt some Cubans have for Castro. Hundreds of Jamaicans fled Jamaica for refuge in the US because they believed Castro had too strong an influence on Manley. These Jamaicans, and the US government, were weary Manley was determined to transform Jamaica under communist ideals.

However, other Jamaicans will recall the Manley/Castro relationship resulted in Cubans building schools in Jamaica, assisted in developing the inland-fishing industry, provided Cuban doctors and nurses for Jamaican hospitals, and provided scholarships for Jamaican students to study in Cuba. Although in 1980 Manley's successor, Edward Seaga, reversed Jamaica's close relationship with Castro, he allowed Cuban medical personnel to remain and work in Jamaica.

Jamaican and other Caribbean people who labored under adverse socio-economic conditions similar to the pre-Castro revolution in Cuba, admired Castro for his outreach to the region. Many have not forgotten Castro's involvement to have the region provided with oil as oil prices surged. When Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez agreed to supply Cuba with oil on very soft terms, Castro helped broker the deal between Chavez and the Caribbean to receive oil on similar terms under the PetroCaribe agreement.

Caribbean leaders and people also admired

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continues on B4 – The Friend and the Foe

Fidel Castro mourned by millions Garth A. Rose

Leaders from across the region and beyond , gathered at the historic Plaza de Revolucion on Tuesday to pay tribute to Cuban leader Fidel Castro, who died on Friday at the age of 90.

The leaders, including Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness, the Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Allen Chastant as well as the presidents of Mexico, Venezuela, South Africa and Panama all paid tribute to a man described as a revolutionary.

Representatives from opposition parties also attended, including Jamaica's Portia Simpson Miller – leader of the People's National Party (PNP).

The death of Castro, has led to nine days of official mourning that will end with the internment of his remains at a cemetery in Santiago de Cuba on December 4.

So revered was the revolutionary leader, that schools and government offices across the island have been closed, giving employees to

LAW OFFICE OF ATTORNEY

Mark A. Douglas s

opportunity to pay tribute .

Castro's urn is being taken around the country, retracing the steps in reverse of the

'Caravan of Freedom' – a march made by Castro and his revolutionaries in January 1959, from the city of Santiago de Cuba to Havana where they eventually took power.

On December 3, another large public gathering will mourn Castro at Plaza Antonio Maceo in Santiago de Cuba.

In Havana and across the island, condolence books have been signed and others have paid tribute at several sites. Cubans have also used this period of mourning to reaffirm their belief in socialism.

The people of Cuba, have honored Castro's memory by abiding to the government's restriction on the sale of alcohol and closing clubs and bars. In the meantime, while Cubans at home are in mourning, Cuban exiles are celebrating his death with song, dancing in the streets, large rallies - expressing relief at the death of the revolutionary leader. A major celebratory rally was held in the Cuban community of Little Havana in Miami-Dade on Wednesday evening, and this coming weekend the celebrations will continue even as Cubans on the island gather to pay their last respects to Fidel Castro.

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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LA SECTION HAITIENNE

Haiti elects new president Jovenel Moise, a member of the PHTK (“the Bald Heads Party) has been declared winner of the November 20 presidential election, the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has said.

Moise, a plantation owner, received 595,430 votes or 55.6 per cent of the votes cast defeating Jude Célestin of the LAPEH Parrty of former president Michel Martelly, who received 208,837 votes or 19.52 per cent of the popular votes.

The margin of victory for Moise means there will not be a runoff.

The other presidential candidates Jean-Charles Moïse, of the Pitit Dessalines received 118,142 votes or 11.04 per cent while Maryse Narcisse, of the Fanmi Lavalas and who was a

Moise

spokeswoman for former president Jean Bertrand Aristide, received 96,121 votes or 8.99 per cent of the popular votes.

The announcement by the CEP came as protestors took to the streets breaking windshields of motor vehicles, throwing rocks and in some areas, gunshots being heard.

The protestors were enraged that the CEP, which had promised to make the announcement early Monday, had not done so late into the night.

Interim leader Jocelerme Privert had appealed for calm ahead of the announcement. “Resorting to acts of violence can only spoil the fruits of the beautiful day we had on 20 November,” he said.

CEP President Léopold Berlanger said the reason for the late announcement of the results was due to the “democratic work” and that he was anxious to respect the date of Monday. he “Preparation of final results after litigation” will take place on December 28 with the publication of the final results for both the presidential and legislative polls scheduled for December 29.

Chef Creole to spotlight social injustice at Art Basel The Miami Urban Contemporary Experience (MUCE) and Chef Creole are set to present the 'Now or Neverland Art Fair: Urban Uproar Edition' during Art Basel weekend starting Thursday. At center stage of the art fair is Urban Uproar, an exhibition featuring a collection of over 40 local, national and international visual artists including Miami native and artistic genius Anthony Lumpkin of Lavish-n-Looney, whom with canvas and paint brush explores social issues affecting the black male experience in America. The exhibit reflects

THERE'S

Chef Creole

the dynamic process of forging cultural identity in urban landscapes. The uproar is the urban voice as it maintains cultural evolution among the often chaotic pulse of food, migration, climate, politics and economics. The four-day event will also feature a fashion show, an awards block party for the winners of the South Florida Web Fest (SoFloWebFest), live and interactive art for the entire family, and live performances from artists such as The Florensics featuring Ja'Nia Harden, The Tattooed Ballerinas, the Kamaria Dance Group and poetry powered by

Poetry & Talents.

“We want the diverse community that makes up Miami to be center stage during Art Basel,” said Chef Wilkinson "Ken" Sejour, the owner of Chef Creole. “I want all 80 thousand visitors, guests to come experience excellent art and fantastic foods in what locals call the 'real' Miami.”

The uproar is the urban voice as it maintains cultural evolution among the often chaotic pulse of food, migration, climate, politics and economics.

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Thank you for making IFC number one to Jamaica for the past 18 years!

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48 –

RETURNING RESIDENTS

Brought to you by:

RETURNING RESIDENTS GUIDE

THINKING OF MOVING BACK TO JAMAICA? HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO KNOW

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| THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48

RETURNING RESIDENTS

Sponsored by

First Steps To

Owning A Home in Jamaica Most developers build beautiful and affordable homes, but they are not a financial institution, so they do not offer any financing assistance. This means that a Home needs to be paid for 100% before you receive your keys!

You can buy a HOME as a cash purchaser but most buyers will need to apply for a mortgage loan in order to buy a home.

Before you begin to shop for a HOME, you should set up a time to talk to a Mortgage Officer so that you can figure out how much you can afford and also get pre-qualified to borrow the money you will need to purchase the home.

This will put you in a better position as a buyer.

To get pre-qualified for a mortgage loan, the Mortgage Officer will collect information about your debt, income, and assets. They will also look at your credit profile and assess your ability to pay the initial deposit along with closing costs. From these discussions they will get an idea of different loan programs that would work for you and they will work out what your monthly payment will be. With this information you can make an informed decision as to whether this is the right time and the right home for you.

Mortgage Institutions will typically ask you to provide the following documents if you are living and working in Jamaica: a picture ID

YOUR CHECKLIST A picture ID Can be a passport or both Birth Certificate with Driver 's License or National ID, a TRN Card, NIS Card.

Here's a good rule to follow:

which can be a passport or both Birth Certificate with Driver 's License or National ID, a TRN Card, NIS Card, a job letter stating your job title and annual salary, last 2 pay stubs and they will ask you to provide proof that you have the deposit and closing costs. For persons living and working overseas, you will be asked to provide these documents along with a credit report showing three scores.

It is important to understand that getting pre-qualified just allows you to estimate what you are eligible to borrow; it is not a commitment to lend. It will however guide you as to what price range you can comfortably look at for homes and will help you to understand if your current financial situation will allow you to purchase a HOME.

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Your monthly mortgage repayment should be no more than 25% of your personal or combined household income.

The length of your mortgage loan will be determined by your age. To know what length mortgage you will qualify for, you can add your age on your next birthday to the length of your anticipated mortgage term and that number should not exceed 65.

Example: You will be 45 years old on your next birthday and you will be applying for a 20-year mortgage. 45 + 20 = 65.

A Job Letter Stating your job title and annual salary.

Salary stubs Stubs showing your last 2 salary payments.

Proof of Deposit They will ask you to provide proof that you have the deposit and closing costs.

Credit Report This applies to persons living outside of Jamaica. They would have to provide a report showing 3 scores.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48 –

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RETURNING RESIDENTS

Sponsored by

Making Real Estate Dreams a Reality with

JAMAICA NATIONAL

Jamaica National continues to provide a full service experience for its members and other customers, especially those living in the Diaspora, through the JN Preferred Lender Partnerships and the JN Real Estate Referral programs.

The Florida Office will assist any person desirous of owing property in Jamaica by facilitating doing the entire mortgage application. Currently there are large populations of Jamaicans in various cities across Florida and the rest of the United States who are seeking information about home ownership. The fact that these individuals don't have to go to Jamaica to complete the process but liaise directly with the office in Florida is a huge incentive to start the process and get all the necessary information from the JN team locally.

The JN Preferred Lender Partnership and the JN Real Estate Referral program provide much needed assistance in giving US residents an opportunity to find out what's available in Jamaica and work with our partners on finding the right property for them.

Both initiatives help to facilitate the real estate needs of Jamaicans at home and abroad whether they need to purchase a property or to seek out other services for their existing holdings in Jamaica.

Under the Preferred Lender Partnerships program, JN liaises with developers in Jamaica who have properties on the market. These developers have to satisfy strict criteria to be a preferred lender partner of JN. JN in return, provides marketing and promotional support and assists local and overseas customers by connecting them with Preferred Lender Partner developments.

Janice McIntosh, chief representative officer with the JN Florida Office says, “This program has assisted many of our members living here in Florida in finding a solution that

“At present there are over 30 realtors and real estate agencies participating in this program and they have been actively assisting our members who live in Jamaica, as well as in Florida, with these needs,” Janice McIntosh Chief Representative Officer, Florida

is perfect for their needs and ensures that they receive support in completing the mortgage application process.”

Mrs. McIntosh also noted that developer partners in the program “have participated in a number of events organized by the Representative Office in the past that enabled them to engage with potential clients and members of Jamaica National. Clients find the service we offer invaluable and attend our many information sessions to find out all the necessary requirements for home or other property ownership in Jamaica. ” The JN Real Estate Referral program

enables persons to select an approved Realtor to assist them with a property purchase or sale, property management, rental, valuation or survey of their property in Jamaica.

“At present there are over 30 realtors and real estate agencies participating in this program and they have been actively assisting our members who live in Jamaica, as well as in Florida, with these needs,” Mrs. McIntosh explained.

Persons can access these realtors by either visiting the Real Estate Referral page on the JNBS website or by visiting the JN Florida Representative office in Tamarac.

Mrs. McIntosh said, “Once we receive the request and based on the needs of the member, we will share their details with our team in Jamaica, who then forward the request to a realtor who can assist.”

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RETURNING RESIDENTS

Sponsored by

RETURNING RESIDENTS Who is Eligible?

Documents Required

In order to be considered a Returning Resident, and to benefit from the concession afforded to Returning Residents, you must satisfy one of the following conditions:

Returning Residents must visit the Jamaica Customs Agency Returning Residents Unit and submit the following: 1. Valid Jamaican Passport or foreign passport that is endorsed with the unconditional landing stamp.

2. Validated Bill of Lading or Airway Bill 3. Taxpayers Registration Number (TRN) 4. Documentary evidence that will substantiate residency outside of Jamaica for 3 or more consecutive years.

5. Returning Students should present a transcript, students I-20, confirmation letter of attendance from last institution of study and identification card issued by the institution 6. Deportees should present their Deportation Order and case file.

Entitlement 7. A specified amount of personal and household effects can be imported free of customs duty.

8. Returning Residents may import their tools of trade free of customs duty 9. Returning Students are entitled to import reasonable quantity of used household effects, musical instruments, and one of each type of electronic equipment (new or used) 10. Deported persons will receive entitlement similar to that of returning residents.

1. Be a Jamaican national who has attained the age of 18 years, and who has been residing overseas for the last 3 consecutive years, and is returning to Jamaica to reside permanently.

2. Be a Jamaican who gave up your citizenship, and can provide proof of that previous status and wishes to return home.

3. Be a Jamaican student who has attained the age of 18 years and who has studied abroad for more than one year but fewer than 3 consecutive years.

4. Be a Non-Jamaican whose spouse is a Jamaican Returning Resident.

5. A Deportee who has been residing overseas for the last 3 consecutive years A couple - husband and wife- will be counted as one family if returned together, and will only get one concession. Spouses not returning together, but within three years of each other, are treated as one family and will also get only one concession.

WITH SAFARI YOU CAN SHIP 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 8:30am-6pm Saturday: 10am-5pm Sunday: 11am-4pm

Fastest transit times Hassle free clearance Lowest rates Packaging and Creating service available.

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Qualified applicants can benefit only ONCE from this concession For complete list of items and quantity permissible visit –www. jacustoms.gov.jm

Motor Vehicles The Motor Vehicle Importation Policy is primarily administered by the Trade Board Limited, which is responsible for granting Import Licenses for motor vehicle transportation.

Pets Importation of pets or other animals will require an Import Permit from the Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry of Agriculture prior to importation.

Plants Importation of plants will require a Permit from the Plant Quarantine Division of the Ministry of Agriculture.

IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION Returning Resident Unit Jamaica Customs Agency Myers' Wharf, Newport East, Kingston 15 Telephone: 750 3098 or 750 3005 Jamaica Customs Agency Montego Bay Revenue Service Centre Bldg 18B Howard Cooke Blvd., Montego Bay, St. James Telephone: 952-0000 extension 2023 Diaspora and Consular Affairs Department Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade 21 Dominica Drive, Kingston 5 Telephone: 926 4220 Veterinary Services Division Ministry of Agriculture Norman Manley International Airport Telephone: 924-8077 or 924-8079 The Trade Board Limited 10th Floor Air Jamaica Bldg.

72 Harbour St., Kingston Telephone : 967-0507 or 967-0674

BARREL RATES

60 75

$

JAMAICA

$

BARBADOS TRINIDAD ST. LUCIA

80 90

$

GRENADA

$

DOMINICA GUYANA ST. KITTS ST. VINCENT DOM. REP. NEVIS SURINAME

$

95

ANTIGUA ST. MAARTEN

$

110

MONTSERRAT

SAFARI Spectacular!

D-CONTAINER BOXES L

58” W 42” H 45”

$

260

JAMAICA

$

250

ST. LUCIA ST. MAARTEN DOM. REP. NEVIS MONTSERRAT BARBADOS DOMINICA GRENADA GUYANA ST. KITTS ST. VINCENT TRINIDAD SURINAME

$

300

ANTIGUA

E-CONTAINER BOXES L

42” W 29” H 30”

$

80

JAMAICA

$

120

ST. LUCIA ST. MAARTEN DOM. REP. MONTSERRAT NEVIS BARBADOS DOMINICA GRENADA GUYANA ST. KITTS ST. VINCENT TRINIDAD SURINAME

$

130

ANTIGUA

*Boxes need to be packed in accordance with specific dimensions.

ABSOLUTELY NO BULGING. IF OVER-PACKED, A DIFFERENT RATE APPLIES.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48 –

RETURNING RESIDENTS

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“Amerijet's reputation of being a trusted partner is based on our service commitment, exible transportation solutions and proactive communication.” Gonzalez further added, “We never forget that our customers have choices. Our commitment to our friends and family in the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Mexico is reected in every shipment we touch.”

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6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48

RETURNING RESIDENTS

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6 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT IMPORTING

COMMERCIAL GOODS

If a Customs Broker is required, then all documents must be presented to the Broker who will complete the clearance process.

When the service of a Customs Broker is used, the C73 Form must be completed by the importer and the fee of JA$5000 paid to the JCA. This form is valid for one year. If a local agent (instead of a Customs Broker) is used to effect clearance on behalf of the importer, a letter of authorization stamped by a Justice of the Peace (JP) or Notary Public must be presented to the JCA.

In Jamaica, many persons and business entities – small, mediumsized or large, import items for resale or for business purposes from overseas family, friend or business. For the clearing custom process to run smoothly in Jamaica there are some important guidelines that must be followed by the recipient/importer.

1 What are commercial

6 The Clearance Process

goods?

Goods are classified as commercial, if they fall into any of the following categories: Ÿ They are imported for business purposes. Ÿ They are imported for resale. Ÿ They are samples imported for business purposes.

2 What are the documents

needed to import commercial goods? Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Ÿ

3 What are the payment

options when clearing commercial goods? Ÿ

Shipping documents such as a Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.

An authentic invoice from the supplier.

Import permits or licenses, where applicable.

A Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC), Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN), and a copy of the General Consumption Tax (GCT) Certificate.

An Original Certificate of Origin, if the goods are being imported from a country with which Jamaica has a Trade Agreement, and for which preferential duty treatment is being claimed.

Ÿ

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Cash up to a maximum of one million dollars (JA$1,000,000.00) Online payment – importers must register with the JCA in order to pay online Debit or Credit card Manager's check Direct Bank Transfer using Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) Advanced Deposit Account

4 When do I need a Customs

clearance of all motor vehicles must be done by a licensed Customs Broker. Where the CIF value of the goods is US$5000 or less, the use of a Customs Broker is optional. Goods of this value can be cleared by the importer at the port of entry upon presentation of the clearance documents to the Customs Officer.

Persons must ensure that they use only Customs Brokers who are registered with the Jamaica Customs Agency and possess a valid license to practice.

5 How are commercial

goods cleared?

Broker?

Goods with a Cost Insurance and Freight (CIF) value of more than US$5000 must be cleared by a licensed Customs Broker. The

Commercial goods must be cleared using the Electronic Single Administrative Document (eSAD) on the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA).

Collect shipping documents from local agent and pay relevant fees. Then, proceed to the port or warehouse and pay relevant local handling charges, and storage fee if applicable.

The warehouse operator will locate the goods and place them in the examination area. A customs officer will be assigned to examine the shipment against the documents presented by the importer/agent and make an assessment for payment. The importer/agent must proceed to the customs cashier and pay relevant fees. A Customs Release will be generated and a gate pass will be issued to the importer/agent by the port operator.

For further information contact: Jamaica Customs Agency Myers' Wharf, Newport East, Kingston 15 Telephone: 922-5140-8 Toll free: 1-888-CUSTOMS (1-888-287-8667) Website: www.jacustoms.com Email: public.relations@jacustoms.gov.jm

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48 –

7

RETURNING RESIDENTS

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Clearing Personal Imports Via Air, Sea Ports, Post Office

Traditionally, Jamaicans travelling from overseas bring back personal items or gifts for families and friends. Some passengers pack these items in their luggage, while others pack and send them in barrels, boxes or other packages, through the air, sea ports, or post office.

1 What is required for

clearing personal items via the air, sea ports, and post office?

Clearing Personal Imports via Air Port All passengers 18 years and older, are entitled to US$500.00 duty free allowance on personal and household effects, not for resale or commercial use. This means that no Customs duties, taxes or fees will be charged on items that are at, or below this amount.

Passengers with unaccompanied baggage (that is baggage/goods sent via air or sea to the passenger two months before or after travel) must indicate same to the Customs Officer prior to the examination of the baggage. The Customs Officer will conduct the examination and complete the Unaccompanied Baggage Declaration (Form C27)/Yellow Form.

If the passenger uses only a portion or all of the allowance (US$500.00), then the Customs Officer will indicate on the form that full allowance was given or the amount of the Duty Free Allowance utilised. Once there is an allowance remaining, the passenger will utilise the balance to clear the Unaccompanied Baggage.

The 'Yellow Form' is valid for the clearance of goods that arrive in the island two months before, or after the passenger.

2 Clearing Personal

Shipments Goods with a Cost Insurance and Freight (CIF) value of more than US$5000.00 must be cleared by a licensed Customs Broker.

Documents Required for Clearing Shipments Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Tax Registration Number (TRN) Valid Identification (Driver's Licence, Passport or Voter's/National ID).

The passenger must present the passport/receipt from the Kiosk in the Immigration Hall at the airport if the Yellow Form is used.

Invoice Bill of Lading or Air Way Bill C27 (Unaccompanied Declaration Form) Ÿ C86 (Goods Declaration Form)

Steps for Clearing Shipments 1. Collect shipping documents from the shipping agent and pay the relevant handling and/or freight charges.

2. Proceed to the warehouse where the shipment is stored and pay the relevant handling and storage fees.

3. If the importer or passenger has an Unaccompanied Declaration Form (C27/Yellow Form) this must be presented to the Customs Supervisor for verification.

4. Once the shipment is located, the Customs Officer will request that the consignee (or the individual acting on the authority of the consignee) opens the

shipment for examination.

5. Following examination, the Customs Officer will value the goods and advise of the applicable Customs duties and fees to be paid.

6. Duties and fees must be paid to the Customs Cashier at the location.

7. After duties and fees are paid, the importer is issued with a Release Order. This is to be presented to the Warehouse Operator who will issue a gate pass.

8. Proceed to the delivery area with the gate pass (and vehicle if necessary), to collect the shipment.

Goods Being Received via the Post Office Packages may be sent via the post office. It is important that persons sending packages ensure that they include the invoice(s) along with the items, to assist with the assessment of the items.

If the postal address on the package is outside of Kingston (Central Sorting Office), it will be sent to the local post office address provided.

4 Required Documents: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Ÿ Ÿ

3 Was Your Package

detained by Jamaica Customs?

First, you will receive an advisory from Jamaica Post stating the reason for the detention and the documents you are required to submit to allow for clearance.

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Tel: 407-843-8500

Government Issued Identification (Passport, National ID, Driver's Licence) Permit/Licence, where applicable Invoice TCC (Tax Compliance Certificate) Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN) Charity Certificate (where applicable) Procedures Submit the required documents to the Central Sorting Office (Kingston) either: Personally / Fax: 967-1666 or by Email: info@jamaicapost.gov.jm Pay the import duty to the cashier at the post office where the package is stored.

Collect the package.

Contact: Jamaica Customs Agency Myers' Wharf, Newport East Kingston 15 Telephone: 922-5140-8 Toll free: 1-888-CUSTOMS (1-888-287-8667) Email: public.relations@jacustoms,gov.jm Website: www.jacustoms.gov.jm Follow: @jacustoms

8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48

RETURNING RESIDENTS

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RETURNING RESIDENTS guide 2016

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48 –

The Roots, Jill Scott, LL Cool J for Jazz in the Gardens Miami Gardens highly anticipated event, Jazz in the Gardens (JITG) music festival has announced the celebrity lineup for 2017.

Miami Gardens mayor Oliver Gilbert shared with awaiting fans the names of the artists coming to South Florida including Common, The Roots, Jill Scott, LL Cool J. JITG concerts will be held at Hard Rock Stadium over two days, March 18 and 19. This, its 12th year, Jazz in the Gardens has become one of South Florida's premiere music events through these concerts which celebrate diversity, culture, and art through various genres of music. JITG has easily become the City of Miami Gardens premiere entertainment event. With 11 years of history,

festival-goers find themselves engrained with rich rhythms and a musical pulse all coming from a star studded stage. The event not only brings worldrenowned talent to Miami Gardens but it gives local artists the opportunity to be seen, heard and possibly discovered. JITG music festival has been deemed as the undeniable “travel destination for the spring.”

JITG occurs annually in March and serves as the inaugural event of the highly anticipated music festival season. The JITG experience is complemented by scenic beaches, plentiful shopping, incredible golf courses, 5-star restaurants, and many other inviting attractions which make South Florida a “must visit” destination.

Hollywood comes to Little Haiti

Thursday, December 1 11am: SPOTLIGHT FEATURE: SOUP JOUMOU by Dudley Alexis 4pm – 6pm: SOFLOWEBFEST MIX & MINGLE – REGISTRATION OPENS 6:30PM: KEYNOTE SPEAKER Friday, December 2 SOFLOWEBFEST SCREENING SCHEDULE 1:00pm – 1:30pm – DRAMA Soiled Roots: Miami, FL I Killed Susan Blake: Los Angeles, CA Carmilla, Canada Autume Leaves, Iran 1:45pm – 2:20pm – COMEDY Subway Series: NYC FISH: Iran The Glory is Gone: Germany Stay At Home Mom: Calabasas, CA

South Florida Web Fest (#SOFLOWEBFEST) is Miami's premier festival dedicated to web entertainment that brings non-traditional voices of cinema to the forefront. #SOFLOWEBFEST aims to connect digital creators by providing a physical space for producers, directors, investors and fans of web series and digital entertainment to network, share, and learn the art of sustainability. Guests can expect a 4-day collective of local, national, and international filmmakers presenting works that reflect a variety of genres.

Screening 27 of the best local, national and international web series, #SOFLOWEBFEST highlights creators through our awards ceremony, live entertainment, art-crawl and educational panels on emerging trends in digital media and entertainment. All screenings occur at the Little Haiti Cultural Center in Miami.

2:35pm – 3:20pm – SUSPENSE/THRILLER Aisha My Virtual Girlfriend: India Desenterros: Spain 3:35pm – 4:15pm - NON-FICTION Growing up Pup Guide: Los Angeles, CA Eyes on Your Mission: Miami, FL 4:30pm – 4:50pm – FANTASY/SCI & ANIMATION Princess in distress: NYC, US The Spell Tutor, Canada 5PM – 6PM SOFLOWEBFEST HAPPY HOUR

B1

1 So Strong Stephen Marley / Shaggy

2 Cherry Oh Baby Patrice Roberts / Busy

Jill Scott

3 Don’t Come Back Tarrus Riley

4 Judgement Mykal Rose

5 Dash Wata Raging Fyah

6 Hey Girlfriend Hopeton Lindo

7 Mercy of God Vershon

8 Progress

Sean Paul hailed

by Forbes magazine One of Jamaica's most popular entertainers, Sean Paul, has received commendations from internationally renowned Forbes Magazine as “one of the most surprising stories of 2016 in the music world”.

In an article, the business magazine described Sean Paul Henriques, 44, as “the pretty boy of Jamaican music,” stating that his career is booming because of either of two factors - an expertly curated strategy on the part of his management, his record label, and himself or that he happened to work with the right artistes at the right time.

2016 has been a great year for Sean Paul, He was featured on British singer Sia's Cheap Thrills which climbed to number one of the on the US record charts. He also was featured on the Rockabye by the British group which was a number one hit in the UK this year.

Forbes magazine said “While these songs aren't making Sean Paul's name, they are helping to resuscitate his career, as well

Mavado

9 World Cup Popcaan

10 Nail Pon Cross

Damian Marley as to introduce him to a new, 11 My Love younger Christopher Martin generation that might not know his own works very well.”

Sean Paul also signed a recording deal with Island Records UK in August and has just released two new songs, No Lie (with Dua Lipa) and Tek Weh Yuh Heart, which features Tory Lanez.

“He's one of the very few reggae greats to have gone global. What Sean has done for Jamaica and helping reggae music cross over makes him nothing short of a cultural icon,” Darcus Beese, president of Island Records UK told Billboard.

Sean Paul first broke through on the internationally scene in 2002 with the album Dutty Rock featuring hits like Gimmie The Light, Like Gule and Get Busy.

In 2006 he made it to the Billboard top ten with the hits - Temperature and (When You Gonna) Give It Up To Me.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48

BARBADOS INDEPENDENCE

BARBADOS 50th independence anniversary Barbados celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence today, November 30, having gained its autonomy from Britain in 1966. Barbados now joins three other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states – Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana – in their golden jubilee celebrations. Preparations started months ago for the grand festivities under the anniversary theme, "'BARBADOS WE COME FROM' from Bussa to Barrow and Beyond.”

However, reports out of Barbados indicates

today's celebrations are being dampened by persistent heavy rainfall.

Barbados was led into independence by Errol Walton Barrow who became the nation's first Prime Minister who served until 1976, and again from 1986 to 87. The other prime ministers of Barbados were John Tom Adams (1976 to 1985), Bernard St. John (1985 to 1986), Erskine Sandiford (1987 to 1994), Owen Arthur (1994 to 2008), David Thompson (2010), and the incumbent Prime Minister Fruendel Stuart who was

appointed prime in October 2010 to succeed Thompson died in office. Stuart was subsequently elected to office in general elections in February 2013.

Bridgetown is the headquarters for several regional and international organizations including Caribbean Development Bank, Caribbean Examination Council, Caribbean Regional Environmental Program, Caribbean News Agency, Caribbean Broadcasting Union, Caribbean Regional Organization Standard and Quality,

PM Freundel Stuart addresses the Nation Barbados celebrated its 50th anniversary of independence from Britain on November 30, despite inclement weather that forced the postponement of some activities.

In his Independence Day message, Prime Minister Freundel Stuart said the island had made significant socio-economic and political strides during the past 50 years and that the pursuit and achievement of nationhood was never intended to be an end in itself.

“It was not just a search for psychic satisfaction.

We pursued nationhood in order that we might take our destiny into our own hands and mould that destiny in such a way as would develop to the fullest extent possible the hidden potential of our people.”

Today as we look back over the past 50 years, we have every reason to feel satisfied with and proud about what we have been able to achieve despite sometimes daunting odds. We have so diversified our economy that sugar, while still a

feature, now plays a role subordinate to tourism and international business and financial services.

“Our manufacturing sector continues to show commendable stamina, while two new sectors, the Cultural Industries and the Renewable Energy sectors, are on the rise. Our housing stock has improved vastly, not only in respect of the conversion from wood to stone, but also because most homes are now equipped with electricity and waterborne facilities,” Stuart said.

But he said that while health and healthcare have improved, the system is now being forced to deal with, and has been responding to, the unacceptably high incidence of a number of life-style diseases, otherwise known as chronic non-communicable diseases.

To mark the occasion Britain's Prince Harry, who arrived in the island on Tuesdayd headlined the list of other dignitaries including pop super star – Rihanna. On Wednesday evening, the prince and Rihanna were guests at a mega concert at the Kensington Oval cricket ground in Bridgetown, featuring some of the best Bajan talent.

Caribbean Tourism Organization, UNDP, FAO, and several others.

Barbados is thickly populated with nearly 300,000 residents living in its 166 square miles.

The Caribbean nation boasts outstanding personalities like George Lamming, David Simmonds, Richard Cheltenham, Rihanna, and iconic cricketers including Garfield Sobers, the three WS, Weekes, Walcott and Worrell, and fast bowlers pacers Wesley Hall and Charlie Griffith, and renowned cricket commentator Tony Cozier.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48 –

B3

FIDEL CASTRO FEATURE

August 13, 1926: Fidel Alejandro Vittore Castro Ruz is born in Biran, eastern Cuba. He was the third of seven children to a Spanish immigrant landowner and a Cuban woman, who was the housekeeper of the landowner's family.

Castro establishes a relationship with the Soviet Union. The United States severs diplomatic relations with Cuba. Cuban forces defeat 1,400 anti-Castro fighters in the US-backed Bay of Pigs invasion.

And Castro officially announces Cuba is a Socialist estate.

1945 – 50: Castro studies law at the University of Havana, graduating with a law degree in 1950.

October 11, 1948: Castro marries Mirta Diaz-Balart. They have a son, Fidel Angel “Fidelito” Castro born on September 1, 1949

April 15 -27Castro meets with US Vice President Richard Nixon in the United States.

February 13, 1962: US President John F. Kennedy decrees a trade embargo against Cuba. The Soviet Union deploys nuclear missiles in Cuba. President Kennedy establishes a naval/military blockade to prevent further missiles entering Cuba.

After a tense period of four days, Soviet President Nikita Khrushchev agrees to withdraw the missiles from Cuba based on guarantees from the United States that it would not invade Cuba.

July 26, 1953: Leads an attack on Santiago de Cuba's Moncada military barracks. The attack failed and Castro is arrested sentenced to 15-yrs in prison. He is released in 1955 and leaves for Mexico where with other Cuban exiles he starts the July 26 movement named after the failed attack.

January 1, 1959: After his defeat at the Battle of Santa Clara in December 1958, Cuban Dictator Fulgencio Batista flees the country.

Castro makes a victorious entry into Havana on January 8, assumes the role of Commander-in-Chief and is appointed prime minister in February.

April: Castro makes his first visit to the Soviet Union.

Castro sends troops to help Angola independence fighters, and signal his opposition to apartheid in neighboring South Africa.

1965 Castro founds the Communist Party of Cuba, and becomes its leader.

Approves the exodus of some 125,000 Cuban refugees from the Cuban Port of Mariel to the US in what is known historically as the “Mariel Boatlift.”

December 2, 1956: Castro launches a 25-monthlong military campaign in the Sierra Maestra mountains.

The Soviet Union collapses, and Cuba loses significant support from its former ally. This results in Cuba experiencing severe economic difficulties without Soviet financial aid.

Castro visits China for the first time.

Welcomes Pope John Paul II on his historic visit to Cuba.

Fidel Castro in retirement makes occasional public appearances in Cuba, but spend most of his time indoors writing a series of newspaper columns, and meeting visiting foreign dignitaries. Raul Castro announces his death shortly after midnight on November 26, 2016. He was 90.

July 31: Castro is diagnosed with an intestinal illness, has surgery and temporarily transfers power to his brother, and Chief of Defense Raul Castro, 75.

February: Fidel resigns as Cuban President and Raul Castro is named president and head of the Cuban Communist Party.

Launches a successful campaign for the return of six-year-old Cuban shipwreck survivor Elian Gonzalez from Florida.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, DEC 1 – DEC 7, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 48

The Friend and the Foe Castro's will to lead Cuba by self-determination and alternative indigenous economic strategies; and his anti-imperialistic stance.

Despite Cuba's shortcomings under Castro, it cannot be denied through him Cuba developed a first-class healthcare system several developed countries don't experience. Cuba also enjoys an impressive educational system, and is relatively free of the deadly crime wave of its Caribbean and North American neighbors.

Even among the harsh opposition and criticism Castro received in the 1970s, people, mostly black South Africans, will favorably recall his stance against the dreaded apartheid system, and Cuba's intervention in Angola against that policy.

There's little doubt that Castro was paradoxical. There's little doubt some people,

from A6

including his own Cubans, saw him as a tyrannical dictator. Others, including another set of Cubans, saw him as a friend. He may have made mistakes. Maybe he could have relented his harsh anti-imperialistic policies to allow more international intervention to assist in the development of Cuba's economy. Maybe if he did, more Cubans would have remained in Cuba. But, very few can deny for over fifty years Fidel Castro remained a colossal figure in world politics.

Cubans in Miami are celebrating Castro's death, marking his passing as “freedom,” and promise of a “glorious” future. Fulfilment of this promise will need major social and economic development in Cuba. Ironically, this development rest with the US that Castro so opposed. The new Cuba which Cuban exiles expects depends on policies, including possible removal of the existing trade embargo, of the incoming Trump administration.

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C.H.A.T Miami Offers Park & Ride Experience for Art Basel Goers Cultural Heritage Alliance for Tourism Will Promote and Drive More Locals and Tourists to Miami's Heritage & Urban Communities Creating Opportunities for Small Businesses.

Shuttle transportation will be available for South Floridians as well as domestic and international visitors coming to Miami for Art Basel. CHAT Miami will provide pick-up locations in North Miami and the Downtown area and through a North and South loop that will allow Art

Basel and Art of Black attendees to move around town without the hassle of driving, dealing with traffic or parking fees. Single and multi-day Park & Ride passes are available for December 1-4, 2016 and can be purchased at www.chatmiami.tours.

CHAT Miami is managed by the Cultural Heritage Alliance for Tourism, Inc., a network of tour operators, attractions and small businesses offering exciting educational and interactive tours of cultural, historical and urban contemporary

LAUDERDALE LAKES

A Magical Christmas returns to Lauderdale Lakes The city of Lauderdale Lakes is thrilled to present the annual holiday tradition, a Magical Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Block Party. The holiday spectacular is scheduled for Friday, December 9, at 6 p.m. and set to be held at the Samuel Brown Monument located on the corner of State Road 7 and 36th Street.

Special guest at the event will be DJ Lil Bear of 99 Jamz who will be filling the air with cheer and excitement, inviting live performances and Christmas carols. Exclusively for the little ones will be a Kids Fun Zone filled with snow and bounce houses. The event is free and open to the public.

Scattered across the park will be a food truck invasion, local vendor holiday shopping opportunities, great music, and more!

Complimentary parking will be available across from Vincent Torres Memorial Park. For more information, please contact Parks and Human Services, 954-535-2785 or visit the website at www.lauderdalelakes.org.

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experiences within heritage communities and the Greater Miami area.

Alliance members curate and offer customized art, history, food & beverage, music, special events and shopping experiences for South Floridians, domestic and international tourists visiting the South Florida area.

“The absence of quality cultural heritage tour experiences to attract South Floridians, domestic and international visitors to Miami's heritage communities has excluded many small businesses from participating in Miami's tourism ecosystem and benefitting from tourists' traffic and dollars,” says Stephanie M. Jones, president for the Cultural Heritage Alliance for Tourism, Inc. “Although these businesses are positioned as tourist attractions, they require additional assistance with enhancing their business, marketing and tourism capacity so they are better positioned to access the 15.1 million visitors and

$23.5 billion that comes to the Greater Miami area annually.”

With support from the Cultural Heritage Alliance for Tourism, Inc., community assets can be developed into vibrant cultural heritage experiences that can be packaged and promoted as tourism products that will attract South Floridians, domestic and international visitors to Miami's heritage neighborhoods on a consistent basis creating economic sustainability for residents and businesses.

“CHAT Miami is long overdue for minority businesses who want to participate in Miami's tourism industry. Through the Alliance, we can partner together to create unique tour experiences that drive traffic to and leave dollars in heritage communities,” says Antonio King, president of King Tours and Alliance Partner.

CHAT Miami is offering the Art Basel and Art of Black Park & Ride Experience as well as A Taste of Culture and Cuisine VIP Tour Experience for groups of 12-20ppl on an exclusive party bus.

Park & Ride passes can be purchased at www.chatmiami.tours.

Groups interested in the VIP Tour Experience can email book@chatmiami.tours or call 786.507.8500, ext. 901. CHAT Miami will offer the Ultimate Wine & Dine Tour Experience to Schnebly Redlands Winery beginning January 7, 2017. Booking for the Wine & Dine Tour opens on November 7, 2016 at www.chatmiami.tours.

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BEACH SOCCER

The Bahamas to host 2017 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup will translate into an economic boost.

“Having been involved with FIFA for a number of years and been to several of these world cup events; I can tell you that this is a major deal for the country,” said BFA president Anton Sealy.

The 2.5 million dollar stadium being renovated for the event has a capacity of more than 3000 persons. Officials say construction of the site should be completed by January in time to host CONCACAF Qualifiers, a test event for the World Cup. “I think the World Cup will be broadcast to 150 million world –wide and we are hoping to be even better when we host the next one,” said head of FIFA competitions Jaime Yarza.

Football officials in the Bahamas say they are anticipating a major tourism spike as a result of the country hosting the 2017 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. The event will be staged at the newly renovated Bahamas Football Association (BFA) Beach Soccer Facility from April 27 to May seven. Sixteen teams from around the world are down to participate in the event and officials are upbeat that the live coverage

CRICKET

Hero CPL Global TV Viewership grows by 44% to 134m The Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) are delighted to announce that the 2016 season was the tournament's biggest yet, with over 134 million viewers tuning in globally to the biggest party in sport, representing a 44 percent increase from 2015.

Cumulative audience figures have risen steadily year on year since the tournament's inception from 36 million viewers (in 2013), to 66 million (2014), 93 million (2015) and now to 134 million (2016).

Television figures from Sony SIX broadcast figures in India alone almost doubled from 44

million to 82 million, while there was also a significant rise in the United Kingdom arising from the partnership with broadcasters Dave / UK TV with audience figures growing from 548,000 (in 2015) to 2.5 million. The partnership with One World Sports in the USA, meanwhile, saw audience figures increase from 694,000 (2015) to 743,000.

This year the Hero CPL also broke new ground by becoming the first professional cricket league to stage matches in mainland USA and matches were viewed across more lands than ever before, with One World Sports (USA),

Sony SIX (India), Dave / UKTV (UK), Sky (New Zealand), Fox Sports (Australia), EcoNet / KweseTV (sub-Saharan Africa) and OSN (Middle East) all showcasing the CPL. With significant viewership increases across each of the key markets, a delighted Damien O'Donohoe, CEO of the Hero CPL reflected: “Today is a proud day and further evidence of the rising international stature of the Hero CPL not just in the Americas, but across the UK, India, Middle East and beyond.

“The release of these global viewership figures is a tremendous boost, not just for the game of cricket in the Caribbean, but for each of the local tourism boards and our loyal sponsors who invest so much in the development and marketing of the game.

“The profile of West Indies cricket has never been higher and 2016 was a memorable year with the Men's senior and Under-19 sides, as well as the Women's team, enjoying international success in the first half of the year.

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T