National weekly mar 17 2016

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

N E T W O R K T H E

M O S T

W I D E L Y

CARIBBEAN

REGION LAUNCHES TSUNAMI RESPONSE PROGRAM PAGE A4

Do you want free tickets to your favorite events?

Subscribe to our free newsletter on cnweeklynews.com for your chance to win!

HEALTH

ZIKA: THE NEWEST STD? PAGE B3

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

WATCH IT. READ IT. LOVE IT. WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

Hillary sweeps Florida Keeps eye on national race by courting Caribbean vote Cnweeklynews.com

Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton secured a resounding victory over her Democratic rival Bernie Sanders in Florida's Democratic primary this past Tuesday, winning with 64.3 percent of the votes.

Her major sweep in the Sunshine State owes much to her dominance in Broward County – the most democratic county in the state – where she won 74 percent of the vote. And Clinton's big Broward turn-out is thanks in no small part to her serious pursuit of the Caribbean-American vote.

Mindful of the potential of South Florida's CaribbeanAmerican vote, the Clinton campaign made a structured approach to engage this voting bloc prior to Tuesday's primary, establishing a Caribbean Leadership Council with 45 Caribbean-Americans from a cross section of South Florida's Caribbean Community.

Council members include Florida Representatives Hazelle Rogers and Daphne Campbell, Broward County Commissioners Dale Holness and Barbara Sharief. Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Jean Monestime, and Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam.

"Hillary has a strong record of standing with the Caribbean American community, from ensuring incomes are rising for our families to strengthening U.S.-Caribbean regional relationship continues on B6 – Hillary

A Proud Legacy DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME: HELP OR HINDRANCE? PAGE A5 COMMUNITY

FESTIVAL OF COLORS TAKES OVER SOUTH FLORIDA PAGE B5

SPORTS

STRIKERS MIDFIELDER JEAN ALEXANDRE TO PLAY FOR HAITI PAGE B7

Florida House Rep. Hazelle Rogers looks back at 8 years in office Dr. Garth A. Rose Completing her official last session in the Florida House of Representatives on, District 95th Representative Hazelle Rogers said she feels “quite nostalgic” about not returning to chambers in Tallahassee.

Recalling her tenure in the House, Rogers says she's proud that “I was elected with Obama [in November 2008] and I am leaving as the representative of District 95 with Obama.”

The outgoing Caribbean-American representative of the Florida House described her last legislative session “as a relatively good one,” seeing some of her initiatives passed.

Collaborating with her South Florida colleagues in the House and Florida Senate, and the city managers in her district's seven cities in her district, she was gratified that “this budget includes some $80 million in projects for Miami and Broward County, including several cities in District 95,” Rogers said.

Projects funded include some $3 million continues on B1 – Rogers

High Expectations Diaspora searches for revamped relations under Holness Cnweeklynews.com Newly minted Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, set expectations high among the Diaspora in his inaugural address, where he pledged to “make it easier for the Diaspora to participate in the development of their homeland.”

“I am hearing of too many problems from the Diaspora when they want to make a contribution to Jamaica,” said Holness in his address. “This has to change. This has to stop.”

This strong pledge has leaders across the Diaspora in the U.S. hopeful – and some skeptical – about when and how the community will be engaged in Jamaica's development. Wayne Golding, the Jamaican Diaspora Advisory Board member for the Southern USA, expressed confidence in the new administration.

“There are several areas, including health, education, and social programs, where the Diaspora has already been participating in building Jamaica, and the Diaspora is capable of doing much more,” said Golding. But, he acknowledge that there was still a need for “a long-term official strategic partnership with the Diaspora in addressing the comprehensive changes that are critically necessary to the building of Jamaica. One such area is the building of modern hospitals facilities across Jamaica providing efficient, continues on B6 – High Expectations

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

Say no to money laundering Janice P. Holness, Execu ve Director, Financial Services Commission, Jamaica discusses Senior Management and Auditor Rela onships at the recently held Caribbean Basin An -Money Laundering & Financial Crimes Conference 2016 in Miami. – Mishael Fabien photo

Girl power Commissioner of Lauderhill Howard Berger (center) is flanked by Women of Dis nc on awardees at the 2nd Annual Tribute to Women's Month event in Lauderhill on Monday. – CNW photo – Uriah Benne

Fun in the sun Esther and Gifford Silva enjoyed a day in the sun at the recently held Belize Na onal Heroes and Benefactors Day picnic last weekend – Contributed photo

Engaging the audience Jeremy Stephen MSc. DIC. BSc., Lecturer, Department of Economics, University of the West Indies – Cave Hill Campus, Barbados engaged the audience as he spoke about the opportuni es and threats facing the Caribbean Basin at the Caribbean Basin An -Money Laundering & Financial Crimes Conference 2016 held in Miami last week. – Mishael Fabien photo

Belizean and proud President of the Belize Associa on of Florida, Margaret Usher addressed the crowd at the recently held Belize Na onal Heroes and Benefactors Day picnic last weekend. – Contributed photo

All eyes on us Vice Mayor of Lauderdale Lakes Eileen Rathery (right) and Women of Dis nc on awardee Paula Sco were all smiles at the 2nd Annual Tribute to Women's Month held in Lauderhill on Monday. – CNW photo- Uriah Benne

Meet and Greet Chairman of the Hai an-American Chamber Of Commerce of Florida (HACCF) Jeff Lozama is pictured with Congresswoman Mia Love a er presen ng her with a plaque for becoming the first Hai an-American elected to the United States Congress at HACCF's “Meet & Greet Breakfast” event on Saturday. – Gerry Brierre photography

Beauty and grace Chris na Rowles posed for our photographer at the recently held 2nd Annual Tribute to Women's Month event in Lauderhill on Monday.

CNW photo- Uriah Benne

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11 –

A3

LOCAL

ICE targets immigrant felons in Central Florida In what U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) spokesperson Tammy Spice called a targeted operation conducted from February 29 to March 4, the agency arrested 25 immigrants in Central Florida, including Caribbean nationals from Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Turks and Caicos Islands.

According to Spicer, the only individuals who were arrested were convicted on charges meeting ICE's “enforcement priorities.” This only included “threats to national security, border security and public safety.” Some of the felonies apprehended in the Orlando had felony convictions for serious or violent

offenses including manslaughter, child abuse, armed burglary, false imprisonment, weapons and drug violation.

The second ICE priority for detention is for repeated, three or more, “significant misdemeanors” including sexual abuse or exploitation; domestic violence and driving under the influence. Some of those arrested were also felons convicted of felony DUI, hit and run, and racketeering.

Spicer says she understands the sensitivity of the Caribbean American community regarding ICE operations, but pointed out the agency's operations raids are primarily against convicted felons, not the general undocu-

mented immigrant community.

“Law abiding residents need to have no fear of ICE,” said Spicer. “ICE is a feared agency, especially within the undocumented immigrant community,” said Desiree Lindo, a Homestead immigration advocate and a member of Florida's Immigration Coalition. “[But] once immigrants documented or undocumented adhere to state and federal laws and avoid criminal activities especially those that could attract felony charges they should have nothing to fear from ICE. However, let me stress, ICE has authority to target all immigrants who are convicted as felons, not only undocumented immigrants.”

Lindo, however, acknowledged that young immigrants were more vulnerable to “be easily led to join criminal gangs.” Immigrant families should be “very aware” that convictions for criminal gang activity is included in ICE's top priority. Current ICE enforcement priorities were refocused in November 2014, by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) “to prioritize the use of enforcement personnel, detention space, and removal assets to support the Department's civil immigration enforcement priorities. ICE continues to work with local law enforcement partners to uphold public safety, while taking dangerous criminals out of our communities.”

PALM BEACH

PBC caregivers must be licensed by April 4 The home nursing industry in Palm Beach county undergoes a major shift, as all homecare aides for the elderly and disabled will need to be fingerprinted and licensed, effective April 4th, following an ordinance passed by county commissioners.

Some healthcare providers, however, express concern about the new ordinance, which may discourage Caribbean immigrants from becoming certified nursing aides (CNA) – a group that has long formed the bedrock of the profession.

“Although we were aware the writing was on the wall, we were still hoping for a possible intervention that would prevent this requirement,” said Loretta Percy, a Haitian-American owner and operator of a Boca Raton nursing agency, and member of the Home Care Association of Florida.

Perry said she's concerned that potential capable caregivers will be unable to provide the required documents, such as a valid driver's license or a passport, to get the license.

“Moreover, some potential applicants may be weary of the licensing application process because they may have had minor

legal problems, fearing this could reflect on their immigration status in the U.S.,” say Percy.

Francine Legister, a Florida Department of Health field compliance investigator, said the licensing requirement is

entirely a county initiative, nothing to do with the state.

However, “the DHHS has already taken steps to ensure caregivers meet specific criteria to ensure they are ethical and in no way comprise the safety or health of their patients,” noted Legister. “Nursing agencies and registries are monitored closely to ensure caregivers meet set criteria, including being checked for criminal records, verification of certificates, and having liability insurance.”

The Palm Beach County Commission decision to initiate the licensing requirement responded to reports of unethical caregivers victimized their patients in their homes through theft and other abuses.

Effective April 4, caregivers working in Palm Beach County must obtain a Palm Beach County Home Caregiver License from the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division. Applicants who have already undergone a National Fingerprint Based Check through the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) may present an affidavit nursing agency or registry that they were previously fingerprinted when they apply for the license.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

REGION

Region launches tsunami response program The region will participate in a large scale tsunami response exercise on Thursday, that is geared towards identifying possible weaknesses in the tsunami and other coastal hazards warning system for the Caribbean and adjacent regions.

Known as Caribe Wave 16, the exercise will test the effectiveness of early warning provisions involving those responsible for the management of emergencies in the region, including national Tsunami Warning Focal Points, weather forecast centers, national coast guard services and emergency relief services.

Nearly 70,000 people are involved in the exercise and countries will also be able to extend the test at the local level.

Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Panama are planning to test their

preparedness through an evacuation exercise for some of their coastal populations.

The exercise will test a double scenario, including a major earthquake off the coast of Venezuela and another off the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It will feature fictitious

GUYANA

Gov't installs rural solar energy Guyana has launched the Sustainable Business Models for Rural Electrification and Energy Access project that will allow for at least 6,000 homes across 25 hinterland communities to receive solar home systems.

The project, which is being spearheaded by MPI's Hinterland Electrification Unit (HEU), is a collaboration with the not-for-profit company, CARIBSAVE, and the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF), a member of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Group. MIF has contributed US$1.3 million towards the US$1.7 million project.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, noted that, in Guyana, over 80 percent of hinterland communities have no access to electricity, while the coastlands boast a nearly 100 percent electrification rate.

“The unbalance is glaring,” said Ferguson. “It is no secret that the hinterland remains the reserve of Guyana's wealth; therefore, if we can create the infrastructure that will improve energy availability for rural communities, the result will be a win-win for everyone…rural electrification improves social, environmental and economic parameters of rural livelihood.”

messages sent by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre (PTWC) to the countries taking part in the exercise. Countries can choose to extend the test at the local level by disseminating the alert via sirens or loudspeakers.

Over the last 500 years, 75 tsunamis have

occurred in the Caribbean, nearly 10 percent of the worldwide total over the same period. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says tsunamis, whether caused by earthquakes, landslides or volcanic activity have claimed more than 3,500 lives in the region since the middle of the 19th century.

The first tsunami warning exercise in the region took place in 2011. The Tsunami and other Coastal Hazards Warning System for the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions was established in 2005 replicating the models of the Pacific, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean and Northeast Atlantic systems. Created under the auspices of the UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), the Intergovernmental Coordinating Groups help Member States establish tsunami warning and response systems.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

Former PM Bird says CCJ is essential for true independence Former prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir Lester Bird says replacing the London-based Privy Council with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) “finishes Antiguan and Barbudan independence and autonomy that was begun in the 1930s.”

In a broadcast on Sunday, Sir Lester, who served as the island's second prime minister from 1994-2004, said that the ruling Antigua Labour Party (ALP) had long advocated the need for the country to move away from the Privy Council.He said when the island sought to attain political independence from Britain in the 1960s, it wanted full independence that would have also included an independent judicial system.

“We rejected the idea that judicial decisions which affect our lives should be made in a city thousands of miles away, and by persons appointed largely by the Prime Minister of a country that was our former colonial power,” Sir Lester said.

Last week Thursday, Antigua and Barbuda launched a three-month public education program on whether to continue with the Privy Council or replace with the

Trinidad-based regional court. At the end of the exercise, citizens will be asked to vote in a referendum on the matter.

Sir Lester, 78, who is now a National Hero and senior minister in the present Gaston Browne administration, said he welcomed the initiative since “it is important for the people of this country to know that serious consideration of our delinking from the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council did not start this week.”

www.Laparkan.com

Global Freight & Logistics Solutions

Ship your barrels to any of our many destinations, including: !

NEW LOCATION

gs Lauderhill Crossin Park Blvd.

5710 W. Oakland 33313.

Lauderhill, Florida Tel: 954.731.1440 Park Corner of Oakland Ave. Blvd. and NW 56th acle Church) rn be (Behind Faith Ta

Antigua Barbados Guyana Jamaica Suriname Trinidad

LAPARKAN SOUTH FLORIDA LOCATIONS MIAMI 3775 NW 77th Street Miami, FL 33147

FT. LAUDERDALE 5710 W. Oakland Park Blvd.

Lauderhill, FL 33313

LAPARKAN AIRWAYS 2361 NW 66th Ave., Bldg. 702, Suite 102, Miami, FL 33122

(305) 836-4393

(954) 731-1440

(305) 870-9949

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11 –

A5

Talk UP Daylight Savings Time: help or hindrance?

Quentin – Lauderhill, FL. I think it's more of a help because it speeds up time.

The sun going down a little later. [It] doesn't really affect my schedule, although it gives me a chance to do a little more in the daytime.

Stephanie – Sunrise, FL. No, I don't like Daylight Savings Time because it's the Japanese who designed it, so that they can get more work time. I also don't like it, because you have to work longer hours in order to get paid. I have to wake up too early. Sometimes I am afraid for my safety, especially because I don't drive and I have to walk in the dark.

Koi and Joshua – Hollywood and Tampa, FL. I like it because now when school is over I get more time to play and do things with my mother, so it's better for me. I don't like when we lose an hour though. When school is out it's already nighttime.

Steven – Lauderdale Lakes, FL. Daylight Savings Time is the best thing ever. I love the outdoors. I have more time in the day which allows more time in the sun. I get to go to the beach more often. I think it's the best thing in the world.

In the morning I get more of an opportunity to get my thoughts together. I get more time to meditate and think about the day ahead. Daylight Savings Time gives me vibes and energy.

Nelson – Lauderhill, FL. It doesn't matter to me, although I think this time around they forwarded the time a bit too early. I don't like it when it's still dark in the morning. It would have been better if they started it at the end of the month. I'm not sure if I'm more productive with the longer hours. I have never really thought about it. I have no idea who came up with it. When you're closer to the equator, it doesn't matter, because those countries still have the 12 hours. I think we are at the Equinox right now, so everybody is getting the standard 12 hours.

Shannice – Broward, FL. I don't like it. I don't think there's anybody who likes it. Other countries in the world have the same time, except for this country. This country is different in so many things. It doesn't make sense. I don't think it makes anyone more productive.

Nothing has changed. Things are still happening, in the same way. It's just one hour behind or one hour ahead. Every other country continues on in the same way. In Japan, for example, the time doesn't make a difference. Daylight Savings Time doesn't make any sense, especially if you want to call someone in another country.

Tespha – Fort Lauderdale, FL. It really doesn't matter. You have no control over it.

You just have to work with it. You just have to get up early and do what you have to do. If you prepare well enough for it, the impact of it would not be so harsh.

Milton – Fort Lauderdale, FL. I hate it because I have to wake up earlier and it's darker when I get up. The evening time doesn't affect me for work at all. I am self-employed, so I have to be at work whenever I have to be at work. I don't know who came up with the concept of Daylight Savings Time. If I was president, my first official act would be to get rid of Daylight Savings Time altogether. There are two states, I think, that don't have Daylight Savings Time. And I think others are lobbying to get rid of it.

Judith – Lauderdale Lakes, FL. I don't like it. I hate it because when I get up in the morning, it's too dark outside, and by the time I get home to cook the day is done. I don't like getting up too early. I think the person who came up with Daylight Savings Time is someone who likes to get up early.

SATURDAY HORACE ANDY MARCH 19

Special

CAMEO PERFORMANCE

@ WATERFALLS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 6455 W. COMMERCIAL BLVD. TAMARAC, FL 33319

Hosted by

Yvette Marshall from

Music by DJ YOYO & DJ RICKY LAW Presold: $15 Lauderhill Coral Springs Miramar Palm Beach Miami

TICKET OUTLETS

Rainbow Records 954.733.6580 Reggae ʻN Tings 954.255.3280 Samʼs West Indian Grocery 954.436.1384 D & L Caribbean Grocery 561.413.5358 Tropical Oasis 305.654.8320

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

The Power of Free Speech

P.O.Box 551712 Davie, FL 33355 advertising@cnweeklynews.com www.cnweeklynews.com

First amendment rights shouldn't be used irresponsibly Emotions have been running high along the Donald Trump campaign trail these past few weeks. Just last week saw violent clashes between Trump supporters and Trump protestors in Chicago, eventually leading the campaign to cancel a planned rally.

Fistfights broke out between demonstrators and followers, requiring police intervention.

Both sides, regardless of political convictions, may have believed they were enacting their constitutionally protected right to freedom of speech – to bodily and aggressively express their political ideals. It does not help that the presidential candidate himself has seemingly advocated for freedom of speech through violence, often in the heat of the moment egging supporters on to seek out protestors. He himself expressed his own desire to “punch a protester in the face.”

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution does give Americans the right to assemble and protest peacefully. Word for word, the first amendment promises that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech.”

But the amendment was never meant to allow violent protest, nor allow free speech used to incite violence against others. There are those who firmly believe

that the political tension of today's presidential campaign stems from individuals and groups misusing the First Amendment as a methodology to incite lingering public discontent – a situation that could lead to very dangerous consequences.

Social media, in many ways, has heighten this aggressive branch of free speech with such triggerhappy platforms as Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. We also arguably see this same aggressive speech culture in mainstream media, through their use of “sound-bites” that document and highlight every irresponsible and inciting word uttered by candidates, members of their campaign team, and celebrity supporters. Portraying complex political situations through sound bites focuses on sensation rather than substance. These sound bites also perpetuate the cycle; the more controversial these words are the more, the more frequent they are rebroadcasted and the faster and wider they are copied and spread by social media.

It's apparent that some television media companies salivate at outrageous, inflammatory speech in the political arena. Too often, these irresponsible statements of politicians, their supporters and the growing cadre of political analysts and commentators are fodder for “breaking news” to stimulate ratings. A growing number of Americans are increasingly concerned about this irresponsible free speech repeated again and again throughout the repetitive 24-hours news cycle. They are concerned about how quickly these words spread on social

media. One cannot help watch this growth of aggression and fear that the US could be approaching a major national crisis.

To avoid such a crisis, more responsible free speech is needed in society. Political candidates, their campaign team need to be more responsible in the example their set for their supporters. Supporters need to be more responsible expressing their political views; not agreeing with someone else does not negate that person's right to express concern. The news media, television in particularly, should exercise more responsibility in the news they carry, how this news is carried, and what statements they rebroadcast, so as not to provide material to further disseminate irresponsible statements across social media.

When the founding fathers of the American Constitution drafted this document, they probably would have reconsidered the right for every citizen to speak freely and to protest if they could have foreseen the powerful influence of 24-hour television news and social media.

The right of freedom of speech, and the right to protest, are powerful rights in the American Constitution, and rights passionately craved for by people living under totalitarian regimes. However, these are rights that should be used responsibly. The line between responsible and irresponsible freedom of speech is rapidly becoming blurred. This is very dangerous for the nation, especially in an environment fraught with tension.

www.JamaicaFreight.com

MANAGING EDITOR Garth A. Rose, PhD editor@cnweeklynews.com

EDITORIAL Kathy Barrett kbarrett@cnweeklynews.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrew Karim akarim@cnweeklynews.com

SPORTS EDITOR Don Anthony sports@cnweeklynews.com

MEDIA SPECIALIST Stacy Rose-Warburton srose@cnweeklynews.com

ADVERTISING/CIRCULATION Hugh Ferguson advertising@cnweeklynews.com hferguson@cnweeklynews.com

Tel: 954-739-6618 Fax: 954-765-6199

100% Jamaican!

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

Hassle free clearance Fastest transit times Best prices guaranteed We load containers daily!

Ship NOW AND pay nothing to collect your barrel in jamaica

FREE shipping!

2 2

Bring in

Ship to Kingston

barrels

80

$

for only

*Ship 1 barrel for $50

Kingston: 76 Marcus Garvey Drive Ship to Montego Bay

Bring in

barrels for only

100

$

*Ship 1 barrel for $60

Montego Bay: Seaboard Marine Warehouse

Open 7 days a week! ek

*one lucky customer each we

2712 NW 31st Avenue Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33311 Mon-Wed: 9am-7:30pm Thur: 9am-8:30pm Fri: 9am-4:30pm Sat & Sun: 10am-4:30pm

Toll Free: 888-SHIP-IFC

(888-744-7432)

FOODTOWN 5335 N. Military trail #60 West Palm Beach, Fl 33407

561.242.1100 or pickup every Wednesday! 9am – 5pm

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11 –

A7

LA SECCION HAITIENNE

Interim Healthcare to pay $100,000 ne for “No Haitians” ad South Florida-based home health aid company, Interim Healthcare, has been ordered by the New York State Attorney General's office to pay a $100,000 fine for posting a job ad warning “No Haitians need apply.” Back in October 2015, the Interim Healthcare New York branch, who has their corporate office in Sunrise, posted an offensive and typo-riddled advert calling for a “laid back nurse, no haitians [sic].”

The incident sparked outrage within the Diaspora in New York and South Florida, where Interim Healthcare is based. In October, Miami Dade Commission Chairman Jean Monestime had called the company's actions “completely unacceptable” and called on Attorney General Pam Bondi to “immediately join the case” investigation by New York's Attorney General Office's Office into Interim Healthcare's employment and hiring practices. The Haitian-American Nurses Association's (HANA) South Florida Chapter also responded to the controversy, saying that “this type of ignorance will not be tolerated,” and demanded that “proper actions are taking against Interim Healthcare, Inc.” No action has been reported regarding whether Florida's Attorney General's office investigated the company for discriminatory hiring practices in the state. But, as part of the New York Attorney's office's settlement with Interim Healthcare, the company will now be required to also create more stringent anti-discriminatory policies, dubbed as “Caregiver Placement Equal Employment Opportunity Policy,” in addition to the fine.

The New York Attorney General's investigation into the incident found that the ad's specification stemmed directly from a patient's request and was not reviewed by the company for potential violation of equal opportunity rights laws before it was published in a Rockland County pennysaver.

The agency also agreed to assign the Vice President of Human Resources to supervise the processing of patients' requests for caregivers. Interim Healthcare will also have to train all its employees responsible for hiring and adverting in an anti-discrimination program. The company will also investigate all complaints, written or oral, alleging discriminatory treatment on the basis of race, national origin or gender and provide the Attorney General with reports describing all such complaints.

Calling for Nominees!

Top 20 Haitian-Americans under 40 The Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce of Florida (HACCOFL) is calling on the public for nominees for their Top 20 Under 40 awards, highlighting young HaitianAmerican professionals in South Florida.

The award seeks to spotlight and celebrate young entrepreneurs among the Haitian Diaspora. Any Haitian-American professional

under the age of 40, and who has demonstrated leadership both in their field and in community service, will qualify. The public can nominate their desired candidate online at haccofl.com.

The winner will be awarded at a special banquet ceremony on Thursday, June 2, at the Little Haiti Cultural Center.

Architect of Hope Remembering Little Haiti pioneer Yves Savain Haitians back home and across the Diaspora are mourning the loss of longtime social advocate, Yves Savain, who recently passed away in Baltimore, MD at 65. Savain was a longtime advocate for Haiti and the Diaspora, particularly in South Florida, as the head of numerous organizations.

In the early 1980s, he served as the executive director of the Haitian Task Force of Miami, which sought to bring both economic and cultural development for the then rapidly growing community. One landmark project was launching the design contest for what would now be known as the Caribbean Marketplace.

Savain also advocated for many social issues that affected the community, from fighting for the right of undocumented immigrant students to access public education, to ending the federal government's band of blood donations from Haitians at the height of the AIDS scare.

Following the 2010 earthquake, Savain also served as executive director of Haiti's CTMOHOPE, which helped facilitate U.S. investment partnerships and compliance to boost the local economy. Under Savain's guidance, the agency also launched a design competition to rebuild the Cathedral Notre Dame de l'Assomption in Port-au-Prince, after being severally damaged in the earthquake.

Savain's life will be celebrated in a memorial Mass at 10 a.m. on Monday at the Cathédrale Notre Dame de l'Assomption in Port-au-Prince by his friend, Port-au-Prince Archbishop Guire Poulard. Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski has also confirmed that a mass will be celebrated in his honor in Miami at a later date.

Savain leaves behind his wife Genevieve Auguste and three sons Harvey, Travis Harvey and Gregory.

SUBSCRIBERS! NOW IS YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TICKETS TO SEE BOYZ II MEN! AND ENVOGUE! SATURDAY, APRIL 23 | LAUDERHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER | 3800 NW 11TH PLACE, LAUDERHILL FL 33311

To enter, click the link, in your CNW Network newsletter.

Click-To-Win

Tickets

Not a subscriber?

Simply log on to www.cnweeklynews.com Subscribe today for free and catch up on the latest news and information happening in your community.

Radio

Today ’s South Florida headline news

N wscast

Your views on what’s trending

To advertise, call 954.739.6618 or email us at advertising@cnweeklynews.com

Newsletter

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

Auto Accidents Slip / Trip & Fall Cruise Ship Accidents Work Injuries Wrongful Death Medical Malpractice

Justice Is Our Priority www.TheMcFarlaneFirm.com F R E E C O N S U LTAT I O N Main Office: Pembroke Pines Consultations also available in: Miami / Kendall / Ft. Lauderdale / Plantation

954-210-5571

ATTORNEY ATTORNEY

Camille Miller

Gregory McFarlane

New income requirements for sponsors New minimum income requirements have been released, with a slight increase, for affidavits of support from U.S. citizen and resident sponsors. To qualify, sponsors are required to meet or exceed 125 percent of the poverty guidelines. For example, the minimum yearly income of $20,025 is now required to sponsor a spouse, compared with $19,912 for 2015. Here is a rundown of the minimum income requirements for sponsors in most States:

Number of Family Members in Household Including the Immigrant

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Minimum Income Requirements 125% of Poverty Guidelines All States (other than Alaska and Hawaii)

$20,025 $25,200 $30,375 $35,550 $40,725 $45,912 $51,112

Useful tips for Affidavits of Support

The children can obtain U.S. residency at a later date, in one of several ways:

1 Make sure that your adjusted gross income on your tax return meets the minimum income requirements.

2 Always include a copy of your most recent tax return and W-2s, past 3 months' paystubs and a current letter from your employer stating your fulltime position, dates of employment and wages (to match your paystubs).

3 If sponsors don't meet the requirements, they must still file an I-864 and include an I-864 from a joint-sponsor who does meet the qualifications. Be sure to include a copy of the joint-sponsor's U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, naturalization certificate or Green Card. Also include a copy of the most recent tax return and W-2, past 3 months' paystubs, and a current letter from their employer stating fulltime position, dates of employment and wages (to match paystubs).

4 U.S. citizen parents sponsoring minor children under age-18 are not required to file affidavits of support, since the child will automatically become a U.S. citizen upon obtaining U.S. residency. Instead, the child is required to file form I-864W requesting the exemption.

1. Once you obtain your green card, you can sponsor them.

Children of U.S. residents who are under age 21 are in the immigration category called F2A for minor children of U.S. residents. The visa line in that category is currently about one and a half years.

2. As a U.S. resident, you will also be able to sponsor your adult daughter as well. Adult, single children of U.S. residents who are age 21 or older are in the immigration category called F2B. The visa line in that category is currently about seven to eight years, and children cannot marry during that time, or the petition is cancelled.

3. Your U.S. citizen son can petition for his sister in the F4 immigration category for siblings (and their spouses and children) of U.S. citizens, but the visa line in that category is currently 12 to 14 years.

Comprehensive Eye Exams Large Selection of Eyewear Contact Lenses Most insurance accepted including VSP, Eyemed, Spectera, Davis and Sunshine.

Evening and Saturday Appointments Available

Question: Our American-born son is 20, and will turn 21 next month. He will then apply for me, my husband and two kids, both under age 18. We have a few questions for you about representing us in our case. Since both kids are under the age of 18, can they be included in our process through our American son? How long will the process be for us to immigrate? We also have a single daughter who is 27 years old.

What can we do about her immigration?

Answer: This is a very common question, and often very confusing to parents of U.S. citizens who have minor children. Parents of U.S. citizens are called “immediate relatives,” (as are spouses and minor children). U.S. immigration regulations only allow U.S. citizens to sponsor each of their immediate relatives separately, and no dependent spouses or minor children are able to immigrate with them. For instance, a U.S. citizen child cannot sponsor his parents together as a couple.

Instead, each parent must be sponsored in a separate family petition. Therefore, your son can sponsor you and your wife (his mom) separately, and you can immigrate to the U.S. However, your children will not be able to immigrate along with you. It currently takes between eight to 12 months for parents of U.S. citizens to immigrate to the U.S.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11 –

Mediate Before You Litigate!

Georgia D.N. Robinson It is a truism that “conflict is inevitable, resolution is a choice” and that “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.” Legal mediation is the smart choice – often the “ounce of prevention” that most business owners overlook, which can save thousands of dollars and affect the bottom line. Better yet, mediation may protect their business in the event of an unforeseen adverse monetary award by a court.

What is mediation?

Mediation is a process where a neutral third party assists parties to resolve disputes.

Florida law requires that parties to a civil lawsuit attend mediation prior to the matter being heard by a judge or jury. As a result, most lawsuits are resolved using the mediation process. Mediation, like arbitration, is becoming a standard clause to resolve disputes in today's business agreements. It is imperative in our litigious culture that agreements with customers, employees and vendors, contain a mandatory pre-suit mediation provision prior to filing a lawsuit against your company.

Mandatory pre-suit mediation will not only save money, but will help your company identify problems early, solve them, and maintain your company's greatest asset – goodwill. And in the event a lawsuit is filed against your company, ask your lawyer about early mediation, which can help you to identify the real issues and allow you to save time, money and company goodwill.

Mandatory pre-suit mediation and early mediation during a lawsuit are prudent business decisions and preventative measures that affect your company's bottom line, save money, save time, preserve confidentiality and customer goodwill. So remember, it is good business to mediate --- before you litigate!

Georgia D.N. Robinson is an attorney and mediator. She can be reached at 954-535-0827 or at robinsonlawmediation@gmail.com or gdnrobinson@aol.com.

Rogers

B1

from A1

for projects in the City of Lauderdale Lakes, including improvements to the 31st Ave corridor. The budget also reflects projects funded for the cities of Pembroke Pines, Lauderhill, Sunrise, Margate and North Lauderdale.

However, Representative Rogers cautioned “it's important for residents to realize the budget having been passed by the Florida Legislature doesn't mean it will be approved in its entirety by Governor Rick Scott. I am expecting some projects will be defunded by the governor, but I am not expecting they will be severe this year.” She advises residents of respective cities to lobby for related projects in those cities.

Though Rogers celebrated her 20th consecutive year in public service on March 12, the date she was first elected as a City of Lauderhill Commissioner in 1996, she says she is not finished with public office. “I had a good tenure with the state, and served my constituents well, but I've a lot of service still to give, and a lot more constituents to represent in meeting their needs.”

“Although I have few regrets I am disappointed that in the last session I, and other representatives, failed to get salary increases for continues on B5 – Rogers

6 tips to avoid lottery scams You think it's the happiest day of your life when you receive a letter, email or text message saying you've just won the lottery.

You might even get a check with part of your winnings. All you have to do, says the message, is pay the processing fees or taxes and provide proof of your identity – then the rest of the money will be yours. It seems too good to be true. That's because it is.

The “lotto scam” has surged in frequency of late, with many criminal enterprises in Jamaica targeting American residents with this particular fraud. Instead of winnings, the scheme takes as much of your money or personal information as possible. Thousands of people each year fall victim to such fraud.

Meanwhile, scammers are constantly altering the ploy to keep it new. But there are some basic tips you can use to protect yourself.

Keep these tips from Western Union in mind:

Never hand over your personal information. If the correspondence starts asking for personal information, this is your

first clue. Never provide your personal and banking information to people or businesses you don't know.

Never send money to someone you have not met in person: You can be at risk of becoming a victim of fraud if you do not know the person you are sending the money to.

Always avoid foreign lotteries: Many lottery scams offer high dollar winnings to the recipient from a foreign lottery. This is most likely a scam. Plus, playing legitimate foreign lotteries via mail or telephone is illegal under federal law.

Look for that personal touch: If the letter, email or text claims you're a winner, then they should know who you are. Look for the personal touch in the correspondence. Is your name included? Is it spelled correctly?

Or does the message begin with a generic greeting? Generic often means the letter has been sent to millions of other people too.

Remember Lotto rules: Many scams can be spotted immediately because they do not clearly disclose the terms and conditions, including rules and how to claim your winnings. You will never have to pay money in advance if you've won a legitimate lottery.

If you received a check with the lottery letter and deposited it into your bank account, never send funds from the deposited check until it officially clears. This can take weeks.

Under Federal Law, financial institutions have to make the funds available to account holders within days. Just because the money is available in your account, doesn't mean the check is good. Lastly, always remember that in order to win a lottery, you must enter in the first place.

Call for help: If you fear you have been scammed, don't wait to find out – take action immediately. Contact authorities and your financial institution, and notify them you think you've been the victim of a scam.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

HEALTH

Zika the Newest STD? As Florida gets first case of sexually transmitted Zika virus, here's all you need to know about the disease.

As if you didn't have enough to worry about in your sex life. Florida health officials have confirmed the state's first case of sexually transmitted Zika virus.

One of two new cases discovered in Polk County, the virus was sexually transmitted from a resident who recently traveled outside the country, though the report did not specify where.

Do I really need to floss?

Though it's one extra task in your daily dental care, flossing is an essential part of preserving the health of your teeth and gums.

The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day to help remove plaque from the areas between your teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. This is important, because plaque not removed by brushing can eventually harden into calculus or tartar. Flossing also helps prevent cavities and even gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can be a risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and a high body mass index. In addition, bacteria can cause bad breath. By also removing the residue that can make your teeth look less white, flossing can also improve the appearance of your mouth.

What Type of Floss Should I Use? Nylon (or multilament) oss The more affordable option, nylon floss is available both waxed and unwaxed, and in a variety of flavors. But because this type of floss is made up of many strands of nylon, it may sometimes tear or shred, especially between teeth with tight contact points.

Normally contracted by mosquito bites, Zika has caused panic throughout the Caribbean, with cases confirmed in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Guyana, Haiti, St. Vincent and Grendadines, and many other CARICOM nations.

Though symptoms are mild, resembling the flu, the disease has been linked to higher rates of birth defects from mothers infected with the virus.

The fact that this disease can be sexually transmitted makes it all the more worrying for couples. The World Health Organization reports that the disease being sexually transmitted is far more common than previously reported. So how specifically is it sexually transmitted, and what can you do to prevent it? Check out the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) breakdown of the virus's features and how to prevent infection.

PTFE (monolament) oss While more expensive, single filament (PTFE) floss slides easily between teeth – even through tight spaces – and is virtually shred-resistant. This makes it a great option for those on the go.

But, when both are used properly, they prove equally excellent at removing plaque and debris.

Simple Steps to Floss We know we should floss at least once a day, but not everyone knows the right way to do it. Use this step-by-step guide to find out how to properly floss your teeth:

Contraction Men do the spreading Reports confirm that the Zika virus is spread by a man to his sex partners. The virus can be contagious before, during and after men experience symptoms, as the virus can live longer in semen than in blood – though how long is not known. The CDC also does not know if women can transmit the virus to her sex partner. So, for now, only people whose male sex partners have traveled to areas with Zika transmission need to be concerned. If the guy in your life has traveled recently for a family trip to the Caribbean, talk with your doctor about getting tested for the virus. Men - talk to your medical provider about your travel history, how long you stayed, and whether you took any steps to prevent mosquito bites.

THE WISDOM TOOTH

Prevention Since the main source of contraction is through semen, proper use of a condom should cover all your bases. Taking precautions to prevent any accidental pregnancies should also be considered. But, if you are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant, then you will definitely need to take extra precaution.

Because of the link between Zika and birth defects, couples must take steps to prevent your partner from getting Zika during her pregnancy. In addition to condoms, the CDC strongly recommends to couples to not have sex while pregnant, as it's the best way to be sure that someone does not get the virus. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what steps will be right for you.

1 Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.

2 Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.

3 Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.

4 When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.

5 Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth. Don't forget the back side of your last tooth.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11 –

A Family Affair

Morgan Heritage and more at Broward Center for the Performing Arts

The Buzz

Your breakdown of this weekend's hottest events “Border Patrol” March 19: Flanagan High School Theater, 8 p.m.

March 20: Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 6 p.m.

The ever popular Andrea “Delcita” Wright is at it again with her legendary antics in her latest play, “Border Patrol,” also starring Christopher McFarlene. Directed by Wright, the new play takes a satirical stab at Church wives, side chicks and the police. Though Jamaican theater fans may be mourning the loss of Wright's iconic “Delcita” character, “Border Patrol” shows this actress and director is just getting started.

Horace Andy in Concert

Get ready to move and groove to the sounds of authentic reggae with three of the genre’s hottest acts, when Morgan Heritage, along with Maxi Priest and Junior Marvin's Wailers head to South Florida to perform at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts – set for April 2, starting at 7:30 pm.

Fresh off their Grammy win for “Best Reggae” Album at the 58th Grammy Awards, Morgan Heritage will be performing singles off their latest album “Strictly Roots,” which topped the Billboard Reggae Album Chart when it was released last April.

Reggae fusion fans will also be in for a musical experience when the original reggae fusion crooner Maxi Priest hits the stage, with such unforgettable hits as “Close to You” and “Just a Bit Longer.” Junior Marvin's Wailers, who joined Bob Marley for the acclaimed “Exodus” album, will take you back in time, reliving the iconic music of Bob Marley and the Wailers.

B3

March 19: Waterfalls Restaurant & Lounge Roots reggae legend Horace Andy lets off some sweet sounds at this much anticipated concert. Expect such hits as “Skylarking,” “See a Man's Face,” “Mr. Bassie” and “Fever.”

Hosted by Yvette Marshall, the concert will also feature the DJ stylings of DJ Yoyo and DJ Ricky Law. This event also marks the launch of VP Records' new vintage imprint reissue of Andy's 1977's “In the Light” album.

1 This Magic Moment Vybz Kartel

2 Life Skip Marley

3 My Dream Nesbeth

4 Hello Fiona

5 What You Gonna Do Freddie McGregor

6 Rasta Party Bugle

7 Use To Hungry Vershon

8 Gain The World

STOMP March 19: Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, 8 p.m.

March 20: Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, 1 p.m.

Explosive, provocative and utterly unique, STOMP is an unforgettable percussion sensation that has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.

Jahmiel

9 Here I Come Jahmiel

10 Never Played A 45 Macka B

11 Try A Little Smile Adele Hartley

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

1

2

3

4

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

5

12

6

7

8

13

15

29

30

45

46

19

24

25

26

31

21

33

32 35 38

37 41

42 48

22

28

27

34

47

11

17

16

20

40

10

14

18

23

9

36 39 43

44

49

50

51

52

53

54

55

Get more boatloadpuzzles.com Log on to @ boatloadpuzzles.com for more

1.

5.

8.

12.

13.

14.

15.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

23.

27.

31.

33.

34.

36.

37.

38.

40.

42.

47.

49.

50.

51.

52.

53.

54.

55.

Go-getter Disencumber Fail to include Fit Some Zilch Broadcast Behaves Makeup purchase Folding bed Fore’s opposite Terminal (abbr.)

Pod vegetables James Earl Ray, e.g.

Sign up “The _____ Strikes Back” Store owner Stocking mishap Squeak by Joan of _____ Paddle’s kin Water removal Crossword diagram Involved Critic Rex _____ So-so grade Apple’s center Soften Not even Eager

DEC-14 242

1. Palm fruit 2. Heed 3. She, in Nice 4. Rod’s companion 5. Precipitation 6. Map parts 7. Tinter 8. _____ wing and a prayer (2 wds.)

9. Native American slipper 10 Interested by 11. Exam 16. Through 21. “Cheers” bartender 22. Chef’s units (abbr.)

23. Apiece 24. Compass point (abbr.)

25. Blood vessels 26. Drench 28. Notched like a saw 29. Nest egg (abbr.)

30. Opposite of pos.

32. Perjure oneself 35. Worked for 39. Spy org.

40. Fairy-tale fiend 41. Zone 42. Art _____ 43. Shaving cut 44. Sunburn soother 45. Richard _____ of “Pretty Woman” 46. Eve’s home 48. President before JFK

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A

PUNCH!

Advertise with the National Weekly and give your business the extra punch it needs to drive customers. Backed by the power of a CVC Audit, you’ll be sure that you’re getting your bang for your buck! Call us today!

Tel: 954.937.6618

www.BoatLoadPuzzles.com

Air Conditioning

CPR 35 $

786-393-0479

SRI HANUMAN ASTROLOGY CENTRE

Indian Priest is an expert in predicting Indian Priest can give immediate your Past, Present and Future through: solutions to: Palm Reading Love Problems Work problems Face Reading Marriage Drinking Problems Name Reading Financial Addictions Book Reading Date of Birth Reading Court Cases Enemity Sexual Problems Depression We also give Childless Problems Sickness House Protection Education Family Problems

PRIEST: Trivikram Address: Sunrise, FL 954.451.6590

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11 –

B5

Festival of Colors takes over South Florida Cerone White Get a taste of traditional fun this weekend at the annual Holi Festival of Colors, set for Saturday, March 26, 2016, starting 1 p.m. at the Brian Piccolo Park in Hollywood. Full of singing, dancing and the joyful mess of throwing colored powder and water at each other, this year's festival continues to honor the deep roots of the local Indo-Caribbean community.

“This Festival of Colors, a traditional event, is exactly how it was many years ago in India,” said event coordinator and president of Jayadevi Arts Inc., Denyse Baboolal. “[But] it doesn't matter your creed, your ethnic background. This event is for everyone; enjoy yourself, you will be glad you did.”

In its fourth year, the festival promises to be

more exciting than ever, full with a serious lineup of performers from Florida and across the Caribbean. This year's headliners are the ever popular Baithak Gana Warriors from Suriname,

led by Rayen Kalpoe. And straight from Trinidad and Tobago, Chutney Soca Monarch semi-finalist Dave Lall will be bringing the heat.

Local dance troupes, the Jayadevi Dancers and

the Champa Chameli Dance Group, will also be dancing up a storm with traditional and contemporary Indian and Indo-Caribbean dance styles.

For this day of music, dancing and color, there is only one rule – wear something (inexpensive) and white. Or better yet, dress head to toe in white, so you can get fully doused in all the Holi color. Whatever you'll be wearing will be fully saturated and dyed forever in colored power and water, making a perfect memento for this festive day.

Continuing the celebrations at 7 p.m., Jayadevi Arts Inc. will host Color of Music and Dance concert at Artserve in Fort Lauderdale.

This special concert will feature the Baithak Gana Warriors, and performances from many local and international dancers.

Destination Fridays at the AARLCC goes to Cuba Rogers On April 8, from 6:30-9:30 pm, get ready to dance up a storm at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center's (AARLCC) “Destination Fridays: Cuba.”

Get set for performances by the worldrenowned Afro-Cuban dance and music group IFE-ILE, whose dancers, musicians and choreographer have worked with Miami superstar Gloria Estefan.

Prior to the performances, attendees will have the opportunity to take group salsa lessons taught by the Dancer's Gallery and take photos

by a fully restored 1957 Chevy Bel Air. A representative from Exotic Sports Cars will be on hand to discuss the intricacies of the car and explain how vintage American cars are so much a part of the Cuban culture.

The event also offers an opportunity to learn about wines and spirits and how to mix Cuban drinks, as well as a presentation on Cuban travel. And no destination event would be complete without food and drink. Attendees will enjoy cuisine from five restaurants, which will offer a variety of Cuban dishes including

Cuban sandwiches, rice and beans, plantains, croquettes, empanadas, pastelitos, and Cuban cake.

Cuba is just one of the many countrythemed parties being presented this year by the AARLCC. On May 6, the festivities head to Haiti, with a Haitian-themed fete, and will continue on September 9, as the party heads to Madrid, Spain. Destination Fridays will conclude the year on October 7 with a New York Harlem Renaissance themed event.

CASHIERS KITCHEN HELP BAKERS MANAGERS DRIVERS

from B1

state staffers, some who work exceptionally hard,” confesses Rogers. “I am also disappointed that House Bill 33, which I sponsored and sought to provide economic relieve to Florida communities struggling with double-digit poverty rates, wasn't even heard. We have to be more concerned with the plight of the poor in our counties and the state.”

She hoped to at least pursue these same goals at the local level, with plans to campaign for Barrington Russell's seat as the Mayor of the City of Lauderhill, where her political career began.

Must be willing to relocate.

(770) 674-9010.

B6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

High expectations accessible healthcare.”

Leo Gillings, a South Florida resident, former leader of the Jamaican Diaspora in California, and leader of the Jamaica Diaspora Education Task Force, also expressed confidence in a positive working relationship with the new government.

“Based on the JLP's campaign manifesto, I am at ease noticing there's a level of continuity in the areas of Education,” said Gillings. He's particularly confident the Diaspora will participate meaningfully in Jamaica's educational development.

The Diaspora Education Task Force recently participated in the Jamaica Association of Guidance Counsellors in Education conference “to help amplify the need and help to fortify teachers in this very needy area.” Through the taskforce's study on Jamaica's early childhood education needs, she said the group is ready to work with the Jamaican Early Childhood Commission to improve this key aspect of education in Jamaica.

Focusing on education, Gillings suggests for the “Diaspora to have a better understanding of

MARKETPLACE

Hillary

from A1

Jamaica's educational needs and be more active.” She also suggests that the new government should allow for “the appointment of members of the Diaspora” to sit on organizations like the Early Childhood Commission and the Tertiary Education Commission.

Since 2004, when the inaugural Jamaica Diaspora Conference was held in Kingston, administrations have tried to establish a more structured relationship with the Diaspora. The conference is held biennially in Jamaica, attracting large delegations from the U.S., the UK and Canada.

However, some people within the Diaspora are frustrated that there is still not enough being done to incorporate the Diaspora in Jamaican affairs.

Dr. Lloyd Cohen, a Miami-Dade educator and member of the South Florida delegation to the 2004 and 2006 conferences, said he is frustrated “with all the conferences and several Diaspora organizations liaising with Jamaica. We have seen little tangible, concrete evidence of a pragmatic relationship between Jamaica and the Diaspora. There has been a lot of talk, a lot of meetings, but we need to see tangible long-term results of the Jamaica-Diaspora relationship.”

INTERNATIONAL MORTGAGE & FINANCE GROUP, INC 4300 N. University Drive, Suite A-107 FHA VA USDA Conventional Home Ready Purchase & Renance Remodel/Additions Loans

954-858-5984

Lauderhill, FL 33351

“Purchase your dream home with as little as 3.5% down and 580 credit score”

Refinance your home up to 97% with No Income and No Appraisal Additional sources of income (relative, friend, rental, etc.) allowed on primary first mortgages

International Mortgage & Finance Group, Inc. your first and last source of mortgage financing.

Have your loan approved by an underwriter at application, subject to Sales Contract, Appraisal & Clear title. Closing in two weeks.

from A1

through economic development, and her commitment to comprehensive immigration reform," said Messa, regarding his support of her campaign. Monestime also described Clinton as “a fighter for the Haitian American community. Hillary is fighting for our families each and every day." And the Clinton campaign, said campaign representative and Trinidadian-American Neisha Blandin, is determine to hold on to the Caribbean coalition for the general elections in the key state of Florida.

During a conference call with a group of Caribbean Americans last Saturday, Blandin gave assurance the community's vote will not be taken for granted, that the campaign “will be active in earning this vote.” Exit polls in Florida, however, show significant support by young voters under age 35 for Sanders. The trend also seems to translate among young Caribbean-Americans. In the National Weekly post-vote survey, over 50 percent of the 17 percent of Caribbean-Americans who voted for Sanders were under age 35.

Christine Daniels, 24, of Davie voted for Sanders “knowing his chance to win was slim, [but] I preferred his message. He gives me real hope.” While saying she would support Clinton in the general elections, Daniels “want[s] to hear Clinton giving me unequivocal reasons to believe the quality of my life will improve if she's the next president.”

Also winning in primaries held in Ohio, North Carolina, Missouri and Illinois, Clinton seems well positioned to secure the 2,383 delegates to win the Democratic Party nomination. Although Sanders is continuing in the nomination race, Clinton is so far ahead in delegates, her campaign has begun preparing for her general election campaign. The Republican nominee seems likely to be Donald Trump, who also won convincingly on Tuesday in Florida over South Florida's Senator Marco Rubio.

COMPREHENSIVE

INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. Homeowner and Business Owners

HOME COMMERCIAL AUTO CONDO FLOOD www.CompInsFL.com BROWARD

MIAMI-DADE

4100 S. Hospital Drive, Ste. 206, Cooper City, FL 33317

12904 SW 133rd Court, Ste. A, Miami, Fl 33186

30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

954.450.9890 305.259.3637

COMPETITIVE RATES

AA INSURANCE WORLD Auto Home Flood Motorcycle Boat Commercial Auto Commercial Liability Commercial Property Garage Liability Workers Compensation Special Events

We have more than 25 years of experience helping a wide variety of clients.

Why risk it? Call 954.430.7676 email: admin@aainsworld.com

8868 Miramar Pkwy.

Miramar, FL 33025 AAInsWorld.com

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11 –

B7

SWIMMING

Alia dominates in Plantation Jamaican swimmer struts her stuff ahead of Summer Olympics Jamaican swimming pioneer Alia Atkinson again dominated the breaststroke events this past weekend at the Florida Gold Coast's Speedo South Sectional meet held in Plantation.

Atkinson conquered the women's long course 100-meter breaststroke, clocking a new Florida Gold Coast Championship Open record time at 1:07.82 minutes. This is in addition to her Florida Gold Coast record of 1:06.21, which she set last August. Atkinson also won the women's long course 50-meter breaststroke with a time of 31.45, just short of the 30.11 Florida

Gold Coast record she set last August. She also swept the women's long course 200-meters breaststroke with a time 2:32.49 minutes.

The three-time Jamaica Olympian also led her club, the Pembroke Pines-based South

Florida Aquatics Club (SOFLO), to victory in the 200-meters medley relay, contributing to their first-place position with a very fast 30.87 breast split. The team also won the women's long course 400-meter relay.

This weekend marked an inspiring performance from the swim star, as she gets set to represent Team Jamaica in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Atkinson represents Jamaica's great hope for an Olympic swimming medal, as the only black woman and Jamaican to win a world swimming title.

The globe-trotting swimmer will stay in the Sunshine State this weekend, to compete in the Florida Gold Coast (FGC) Senior Championships, being held at the Academic Village Swimming Pool in Pembroke Pines.

SOCCER

Alexandre heads to Haiti

Strikers midfielder to participate in world cup qualifiers Fort Lauderdale Strikers midfielder Jean Alexandre has been called up by the Haiti Football Federation for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualification matches against Panama. Alexandre will link up with the Haiti national team for qualifiers against Panama on March 25 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and March 29, in Panama City, Panama.

“We are very happy that Jean will participate in these important World Cup qualifying matches for his country," said Strikers Head Coach and General Manager Caio Zanardi. "Jean is an important player and leader for both the Strikers and Haiti. We wish him the best of luck with his national team."

Alexandre, 29, has earned more than two dozen

caps for Haiti. The midfielder has represented his country at three major international tournaments, including once as captain: the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup. "[Playing for Haiti] means the world to me," said Alexandre. "As a little kid I always dreamed of representing my country, and to get the opportunity to do so is a blessing. I'm very excited for the fact that we've qualified for the Copa America and hopefully we can do the double and qualify for the World Cup." Alexandre will report to the national team on March 20, following his return from the Strikers preseason tour of China. The midfielder returns from national team duty in time to participate in the Fort Lauderdale Strikers' 2016 North American Soccer League season opener on April 2 at Lockhart Stadium against league newcomers and regional rivals, Miami FC.

Batting for Guyana New York Enforcers celebrate Guyana with Florida Cup Victory It was sweet sweet victory for the New York Enforcers in more ways than one this past Sunday at the 2016 Florida Cup All-Stars Championship finals, held at the Central Broward Regional Park.

The Enforcers swept the all-star pack, neatly defeating the much favored South Florida Softball Cricket League (SFSCL) All-Stars with 82 runs from 3 wickets from 12.2 overs. Batsman Vickey Sugrim particularly stood out with a quickfire 43 runs. When it was their turn up to bat, the SFSCL was bowled all out with 81 runs, thanks to a stellar performance from Enforcer Captain and tournament bowling MVP, Balieram Beharry.

This marks a first Florida Cup win for the New York Enforcers, and a particularly poignant one, as the tournament was dedicated in honor of Guyana celebrating 50 years of independence this year. The Enforcers are deeply dedicated to giving back to children in Guyana through their Enforcer charity. Their organization donates much needed supplies to homes and orphanages that care for the homeless children in Guyana. Throughout its three years, the Enforcer Charity has already donated over 90 barrels of food and clothing for over 700 children in 23 orphanages, and over 300 children in 12 villages. Captain Beharry has pledged that a portion of their $4000 prize will be dedicated to continuing the team's charity work.

Immigration Family / Divorce Personal Injury Opal Lee Attorney At Law

Attorney Lee also practices in Jamaica; her practice areas include Real Estate, Probate, Family, Litigation and Commercial.

FloJam Legal, P.A. 29 South State Road 7

Plantation, Florida 33317

954.358.2020 www.FloJamLegal.com Fax: 954.358.2021

Email: flojamlegalpa@outlook.com

The hiring of an Attorney is a very important decision and should not be based solely on advertisement. Before deciding, ask us for information on our experience and qualifications

954.838.0621

B8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAR 17 – MAR 24, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 11

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