National Weekly May 19, 2016

UNDERCOVER

BOSS

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

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

CARIBBEAN

MEDICAL MARIJUANA INDUSTRY URGENTLY NEEDED SAYS JAMAICA FINANCE MINISTER PAGE A4

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

Business, not barrels Caribbean Investment Summit calls for meaningful Diaspora engagement Monique McIntosh

ENTERTAINMENT

RIHANNA LAUNCHES FUND FOR DIASPORA

PAGE B2

Caribbean

Smile

DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS?

PAGE A5 STRICTLY LEGAL

WHO OWNS IT? WHO IS THE PROPERTY OWNER FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF A CO-OWNER? PAGE B3

LOCAL

CONSUMERS WARNED ABOUT FAKE INTERNET COUPONS PAGE A3

SPORTS

BOLT RETURNS TO THE TRACK PAGE B7

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

This carnival player is all smiles at the annual Unifest celebration this past Sunday at the Vincent Torres Park in Lauderdake Lakes.

Celebrating their 22nd anniversary, this year's festivities included performances from headliners Glenn Washington, Skip Marley, and a slew of local talents. The city's young also put their Caribbean pride on display, with a carnival parade, dance performances, and a marching band showdown.

Changing investment relations with the Diaspora was at the top of the agenda at the recent Caribbean Investment Summit, held at the Marriot Biscayne Bay in Miami Beach.

Government Ministers and business stakeholders from across the Caribbean gathered to showcase development in the emerging arenas of niche tourism, tech services and renewable energy.

Hosted by Carib-Export (Caribbean Export Development Agency), the summit seeks to expand the Diaspora's engagement with the continues on B6 – Business , not barrels

WEST PALM BEACH

PB Sheriff says Looking for a no to marijuana breakthrough in Sunrise Caribbean-born candidate seeks historic citation Dr. Garth A. Rose Palm Beach County's Sheriff Office is holding Bradshaw off from a new policy passed last year by the county commission to remove jail time for low-level marijuana possession. Sheriff Ric Bradshaw has not implemented the commission's ordinance, pending review.

The new ordinance reduces penalties for those found with less than 20 grams (less than an ounce) of marijuana from possible arrests to a $100 citation, similar to a traffic ticket. One reason for the commission's support for the new policy was reports that jailing small time offenders cost the county's tax payers $1.1 million between 2009 and 2015.

However, the sheriff's office questioned this cost, requesting the County's Justice Commission to reexamine the estimate. On Monday, the CJC issued revised estimates, which reduced the cost of jailing offenders to $322,915 over the 6-year period. The higher figure had included those arrested for associated minor offenses, such as trespassing.

“I assume the sheriff's office is trying to make an argument that it isn't costing the county all that much to arrest people found with small quantities of marijuana. But cost isn't the real issue here,” said county attorney, Wes Cooper. “The issue is that people, mostly youth, are being branded with arrest records that impede their future careers. The county continues on B4 – Marijuana citation

appointment on city commission

by Cnweeklynews.com

Another Caribbean-American is seeking to make history in the City of Sunrise, as local lawyer Mark Douglas enters the race for a city commission seat. Douglas is only the second Caribbean-American candidate to run for office in the heavily Caribbean-populated city, following Ghenete WrightMuir's candidatcy in 2008.

Mark Douglas

Douglas is contesting the city's Group A seat, held by incumbent Donald Rosen since 2001, who is now retiring.

The city's municipal elections are scheduled for November 8. Douglas is currently the only minority candidate, running against Yomtov “Vivi” Assidon, who contested the seat and lost in 2013, Gerald Brignola, Steven Del Re, a recently retired city of Sunrise cop, and Steve Feren, a former mayor who lost his Circuit judgeship after one term in 2014.

Unlike other Broward cities with a large contingent of Caribbean-Americans, such as Lauderhill, Lauderdale Lakes and Miramar, the City of Sunrise has never elected a Caribbean-American representative, and has been traditionally dominated by white men. However, Sunrise resident and attorney Mark Douglas, who graduated from FIU Law School in 2006, is seeking to change the status quo. Douglas, who was born in Clarendon, Jamaica and has been a Sunrise resident since migrating from Jamaica in 2001, says he's prepared for this opportunity, having been actively involved in the community for years, serving on the board of condo associations and on three city advisory boards, chairing one for two years. continues on B4 – Mark Douglas

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

Perfect a endance 17th Circuit Court Judge, the Honorable Elijah Williams (L) poses with Western High School senior Zackrie Gordon of Davie (2nd L), with proud parents Mr. and Mrs. Gordon. Zackrie received the perfect a endance award, for not missing a day of school from kindergarten to the 12 grade, at the recently held “Evening among the Stars” awards ceremony at the Planta on High School auditorium. CNW Photo – Uriah Benne

Role Model Miami-Dade Schools Chief of Police, Ian A. Moffe , speaks during an event held at Jungle Island for the 5000 Role Models Academic Signing. – Contributed Photo

Pre y in Pink (L-R) Nadine, Lotoya and Donna are all smiles at a recent gradua on party held in Lotoya's honor. CNW Photo – Uriah Benne

Pan Caribbean Dancers (L-R) Llicia Dow, Vedasha Roopnarine, Hanessa Ramnarine, and Ashley Dindial from Jayadevi Arts Inc. are looking fly in their Caribbean flag colors as they pose with dance instructor and Jayadevi Arts Inc. founder, Denyse Baboolal, just a er their performance at the Unifest concert this past weekend. CNW Photo – Uriah Benne

Iconic Sound Iconic reggae star Glenn Washington woos the crowd at this past weekend's Unifest Concert, held at Vincent Torres Park in Lauderdale Lakes. CNW Photo – Uriah Benne

Si ng Pre y These three ladies are taking in the sights in their patrio c Jamaica colors at the recent Unifest concert in Lauderdale Lakes. CNW Photo – Uriah Benne

Star Students Miami-Dade County School Board Vice Chair Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall (center) is all smiles with 12th-grade students from William H. Turner Technical Arts High School, all being awarded for their extraordinary achievements. (L to R): CAP Advisor Nancy Erdvig, Xavier Miranda-Colon, Julius Wade, Dajuan Bowman, School Board Vice Chair Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, Jonathan Cola, Melissa Eustache, Charles Vol me, and Student Services Department Chair Rene Posey.

Contributed Photo

Caught on Camera Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness smiles with District 95 State Rep. Hazelle Rogers as they rally the crowd at the recent Unifest concert.

CNW Photo – Uriah Benne

Whirlwind Dancers from the Nancy St Leger Danse Troupe are a whirlwind of colors at the recent Hai an Cultural Celebra on held at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center. Contributed photo – care of Urban Tour Host

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20 –

A3

LOCAL

Coupon Con Many South Florida shoppers got duped this past week, following the viral breakout of a false Publix Supermarket online coupon offering consumers $75 off purchases of $80 or more. This marks the latest in a recent surge of online coupon scams, says local fraud experts, with recent reports from several South Florida stores, including Kohl's, Costco, Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, Macy's, Olive Garden, Publix, Target, and Walmart.

Fake store coupons are becoming “increasingly widespread,” says Dillon Murphy, a West Kendall private website fraud investigator. As consumers struggle with domestic expenses, more store websites are being intercepted and fake coupons posted.

Consumers warned about fake Internet coupons

“Characters who post these fake coupons are not doing this to be creative, but to get information from people who use sites like Facebook and Twitter to provide personal information and also encourage their website associates to divulge their information,” says Murphy. “This is a dangerous source of ID fraud.”

He said when consumers click on the coupon link, it normally sends them to a “nefarious site” requesting to complete surveys with crucial personal information, which is then used fraudulently. These links also “often contain viruses,” says Murphy. Once the alternative site is visited, the thieves can get access and “nonetheless get the information

they are seeking.”

Murphy suggests shoppers avoid any coupons that ask for information like Social Security, credit card numbers and other

sensitive information, as “legitimate businesses would never ask for this information via the Internet.”

And when consumers see these “very tantalizing coupon offers, they should be doubtful,” suggests Murphy. Instead, he suggests that consumer call the company in question to confirm the coupon offer, or log off from the fake coupon site and visit the company's website for double verification.

“I really cannot understand why people fall for these scams. It is so unlikely a company will give away $75 or $100, when they are aggressively advertising for customers to spend money with them.”

Homeowners face unscrupulous repairers Often the most prized possession of South Florida's Caribbean community is their home.

But for many residents, finding a reliable service provider to maintain aging homes has proven difficult, with a number of companies actively deceiving their clients on the repairs needed.

That's what retired Caribbean-American nurse Dorothy Markham found with the constant repairs needed for the 32-year-old home in Pembroke Pines. “[I've been] getting the run around and feel I'm being ripped off by incompetent and unconscionable repair people,” says Markham, who recently faced a major repair with her home's A/C unit. When the A/C unit first stopped working, a repair man she selected from a website charged her $600 “but it worked for three days then died,” said

Markham. She was later referred to a Fort Lauderdale A/C company that confirmed the unit had to be replaced, which cost $3500, including labor. The company confirmed she had been duped by the original repair man, since the unit had deteriorated too badly to be repaired. Another a/c company confirmed she

needed a new unit.

Local contractor Las Stephens of North Miami says Markham's experience “is typical of several South Florida homeowners. I have seen several homeowners, most of them retirees, who have been scammed repeatedly by unscrupulous so-called repair people who are inexperienced but charge exorbitant rates.”

He said the problem is caused by these homeowners trying to have the repairs done “as cheaply as possible,” because of their financial constraints. “But picking people off websites or on referral without basis costs them more.”

However, says Stephens, “there are several routes South Florida homeowners can take to have house repair done without being ripped off.” Instead, Stephens suggests that

homeowners looking for reputable repair service providers “contact the local offices of HUD [Department of Housing and Urban Development].”

In addition to referrals, says Stephens, the agency also offers loan and insurance programs that facilitate costly repairs, ensuring the repairs are conducted by certified/licensed professionals. “And most lenders will offer qualified homeowners assistance, even through a credit card, to finance repairs like replacing a/c units, instead of people scrimping to save and turning to unscrupulous people.”

Stephens also recommend homeowners “contact the Better Business Bureau for verification of the individual or company if the homeowner doubts their credibility.”

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

JAMAICA

CUBA

Medical Marijuana industry urgently needed, says Finance Minister Jamaica's Minister of Finance Audley Shaw says Jamaica must move with urgency to develop a medical marijuana industry. Speaking during the opening of the 2016/2017 Budget Debate, Minister Shaw said that exploiting the benefits of marijuana is “not about smoking a spliff” or “walking around with two ounces of the weed.”

“This is about building an industry of value-added products,” he said as he delivered his first budget presentation of the new Andrew Holness government. Shaw, who cited other countries that have benefited from using the plant, said that Jamaica is uniquely positioned to play a leading role in the medical marijuana industry, which can create wealth for the country.

Shaw noted that in the United States alone,

the legal marijuana market is predicted to rise from US$6.7 billion this year to US$21.8 billion by 2020. He said that Canada has built a major industry, which may become fully legalized next year, adding that the Dutch Ministry of Health is exporting medical marijuana to Canada, Italy, Germany and the Czech Republic. In addition, Israel has over 12,000 medical marijuana patients and is leading the world in research on medical marijuana.

Shaw said developing a medical marijuana industry for the country will involve pursuing research at the universities to create medicines which can help people dealing with major illnesses, such as diabetes, epilepsy and others.

“One simple breakthrough in any of these areas will contribute billions of dollars to our economy. This is about turning wasted land into growing hemp products which contain no psychoactive properties and can be used for food, textiles, building materials and many others,” he said, adding that the aim is to build an industry in Jamaica where value-added products will be processed and manufactured locally.

“This is about an opportunity for small farmers who will now earn from land which is sitting idle. This is about our tourism industry where Jamaica will be positioned as the medical tourism capital, bringing health and wellness to the world,” he said.

REGION

DOMINICA

CARICOM targets sustainable growth

CTO appoints sustainability leader

Civil society organizations (CSO) from seven Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries will meet in the Bahamas next month to discuss key economic and social trends and challenges for the region under the perspective of Sustainable Growth.

The CSOs from Barbados, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago and the host country will meet on June 4, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) announced. The forum will be hosted by the Vice President for Countries, Alexandre Meira de Rosa, with the special presence of high government authorities and leaders of civil society and other development actors.

“The meeting will feature discussions about the future and sustainability of civil society organizations (CSOs) in alignment with their governments' development efforts,” said a statement from the IDB. It noted that the forum will include the innovation of an IDEATHON (hackathon of ideas) on Sustainable Growth & Sustainable Cities, looking for innovative solutions to build safety for the cities of the future.

The IDB Group and the Civil Society sustains a systematic dialogue with civil society organizations CSOs from 26 countries of Latin American and the Caribbean, which includes information, dialogue, consultations, collaboration and partnership.

The Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has announced the appointment of Dominican Amanda Charles as its sustainable tourism specialist. The CTO said that Charles will coordinate and implement the CTO's sustainable tourism program, aimed at enhancing the development, growth, quality, competitiveness and sustainability of Caribbean tourism.

Charles is a tourism professional with several years of experience, having worked most recently as the adviser to the directorate of sustainable tourism at the Trinidad-based Association of Caribbean States (ACS), a position she held for five years. She also worked as a tourism specialist consultant at the Organization of American States (OAS) department of economic development, trade and tourism in Washington, DC and as a project consultant at the OAS department of sustainable development.

The CTO said that as the sustainable tourism specialist, she will lead the organization's agenda, which includes “helping to develop quality standards for Caribbean destinations and their tourism products and services; designing, delivering and/or coordinating training and development programs dealing with sustainable tourism and product development” among others.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20 –

Talk UP Do you believe in ghosts?

Ian – Tamarac, FL. I believe in living spirits. It's even more than believing, it's knowing that we are all living spirits trapped inside a body. Since we are all living spirits, when we meditate, we can leave these bodies and exist in the heavens amongst gods. Our spirits cannot die. There are spirits that can possess a weak person and carry out wrongdoings. These are the living spirits that people may call ghosts. I have come in contact with them while levitating in the heavens.

Tanya – Lake Worth, FL. I really don't believe in ghosts. I have felt chills when walking into old buildings and I do believe in the spirit realm, but I am not convinced that this has anything to do with what people refer to as ghosts.

Eileen – Lauderdale Lakes, FL. I know that they exist. I have seen them on a few occasions. Once when I was a child I saw a family member after he died. My father appeared to me in my adult life and I also saw a tall Indian man in my house one night. I sometimes feel people's presence and I have felt someone lie down in my bed. I was scared during these instances, but I call on God for help. I think these spirits can harm you if you place your belief in them or establish a connection with them.

Lesmin – Ft. Lauderdale, FL. I do not believe in ghosts. I have never seen, heard or experienced ghosts. My family members have told me about ghosts, but I have never seen any myself. I believe that the spirits of people who have passed on may still linger here on earth and maybe they manifest themselves in a form that others interpret as ghosts. I don't believe that they can touch, box or harm anyone.

Rukkie – Ft. Lauderdale, FL. I don't believe in ghosts, I believe in angels. I have never seen them, but I believe that everyone is an angel in some way. Even those who are evil have a bit of good in them. Depending on the situation, evil from the spirit realm may manifest itself, but that would not scare me because my God is too strong.

Marcia – North Lauderdale, FL I do not believe in ghosts. When you die, you are asleep or your soul moves on. I think people who believe in ghosts will see them because that is already in their thoughts. We grew up in Jamaica hearing about “duppy,” but the truth is that when you die, you're dead. I also don't believe in evil spirits. I think that people can do bad things to you, but it has nothing to do with spirits.

Lindell - Plantation, FL. Yes, I believe in ghosts, but I have never seen one.

The bible talks about spirits, evil and otherwise, and I believe the bible, so they must exist. When people pass away, their spirits linger here on earth for three days then then move on. They are at rest.

If a spirit remains for longer than three days, then they must have done something wrong. They are in torment. I am not afraid of ghosts. They run from me. As they say, “Duppy know who fi frighten!”

Cynthia – Miami, FL. I do not believe in ghosts. Ghosts are a myth. I believe in Satan and fallen angels. People may see one of these fallen angels and call them ghosts. If you are a spiritual person and you believe in God, then nothing can harm you.

Roxann – Ft. Lauderdale, FL. I kinda' do and I kinda' don't. I believe in spirits.

When we die, our bodies are gone, but our spirits remain. These spirits can be either negative or positive. My parents and grandparents have told me stories, but I have never experienced ghosts/spirits personally. I don't think they can harm you unless you allow them into your mind.

A5

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

Securing the future of baby boomers It wasn't all that long ago when America's enlightened generation was the nicknamed “baby boom” generation, born between 1946 and 1964. This generation was the movers and shakers of the American society, responsible for many social and economic innovations and developments from the 1970s onwards, including phenomenal history makers like President Barack Obama.

Now this baby boom generation is aging rapidly, averaging age 70 to 52, with over 50 percent, mostly 65 and over, either retired, forced to retire and unable to find jobs relevant to their vast experience on the current job market. More concerning is that this group is earning incomes, mostly from Social Security, averaging 60 percent less than the incomes they were earning when they left the work-force, placing them in a serious financial plight.

With 18.7 percent of Florida's population over age 65, the predicament of seniors in the state is of particular concern. In South Florida, some 18 percent of the population is over age 65, including over 22 percent in Palm Beach County.

This is also a serious problem for the region's Caribbean-American population, as according to local demographic researchers, 23 percent of this community is over age 65, consisting mostly of migrants who arrived from the Caribbean in their

40s during the 1980s.

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), about half of Florida's retirees earn some 50 percent of their income from Social Security, and for 27 percent of current retirees, Social Security represents over 90 percent of their income.

Although this is troublesome, there is scant reference to the issue among the current political landscape, from the municipal level to the federal.

Who is really concerned about the plight of the baby boomers, that large group of American seniors who contributed so much during their careers?

While the baby boom generation is being rapidly succeeded by following generations, including the much discussed Millennial generation born after 1981, there is much the baby boomers still have to contribute to the workforce. Instead of forcing out workers over age 55 through retirement, more emphasis should be placed on retaining senior employees as mentors or consultants to the new generation of workers. In many organizations, operational continuity go through several unnecessary stops and starts as a new generation of employees enters. This is a waste of scarce corporate resources. More could be gained by making more senior employees available through paid mentoring or consulting programs to coach younger incoming employees.

Many have argued that retirement of senior employees is necessary to make way for a younger generation of talent. While this isn't an invalid point, it's possible that the production output and profit margin of several companies and organizations could be enhanced with the retention of more senior employees to pass on their experience to

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However, even if more measures are taken within the private and public sectors for these experienced workers, ultimately they will have to retire. But many will have little alternatives to Social security benefits, unless they are among the less than 10 percent of seniors with retirement accounts.

Astonishingly, the recently released Employee Benefits Research Institute's 2016 Retirement Confidence Survey says 42 percent of American workers surveyed have only saved less than $10,000 toward retirement.

Therefore, with Social Security such a vital component to millions of Americans, including some 4 million Floridians and over 150,000 Caribbean- Americans in South Florida, why aren't more voters demanding Social Security platforms from the current slate of candidates. This isn't just a problem for seniors over age 65, but every American approaching that age.

Moreover, with Social Security benefits contributing some $5.2 billion to Florida's economy monthly, the preservation and strengthening of this benefit isn't only vital to the livelihood of seniors, but also to the state's economy.

Americans still need sound personal financial planning to save for retirement as they approach this milestone. However, it's imperative that during this current election cycle, voters demand candidates to divulge their plans to ensure Social Security is strengthened, as it's a crucial financial lifeline for millions of aging baby boomers.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20 –

A7

LA SECCION HAITIENNE

Top 20 Under 40

Haitian Heritage Month

HACCOF honors local HaitianAmerican professionals

May 19 MEEC Haitian Flag Day MDC's North Campus, Lehman Theatre – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Miami Dade College's (MDC) North Campus and the Carrie P. Meek Entrepreneurial Education Center commemorate Haitian Flag Day in a special ceremony. Highlights of the event at MEEC will include a keynote address by Dr. Marie Etienne. Since 2006, Dr. Etienne has led groups of MDC students on medical missions to the Dominican Republic in partnership with the Haitian American Professionals Coalition (HAPC).

Your weekly breakdown of upcoming local events celebrating Haitian Heritage

The board of the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce (HACCOF) has announced their selection for this year's Top 20 Under 40 awards – honoring 20 Haitian-American Young Professionals (YoPros) under 40 in the South Florida community.

The (HACCOF) received over 70 applications from successful young Haitian-American professionals. The final list stood out “for their commitment and contributions both professionally, civically, academically and personally,” noted a statement from the HACCOF. “As a community of vibrant, energetic, creative and out-of-the box thinkers, YoPros are an expression of culture and pride throughout the Haitian community.”

This year's class of awardees spans all professions including law, business, education, health, government, public service, media and entertainment. Many business leaders and entrepreneurs were among this year's crop, including Project Executive at construction firm, Hammes Company, Edwige Clark, Managing Consultant at IBM Global Business Services, Docelyn Lordeus, and CEO at St. Forts Funeral Home, Evans St. Fort.

The nominees also highlighted the numerous individuals dedicated to supporting and developing the local Haitian Diaspora, including Policy and Advocacy Coordinator at Florida Immigrant Coalition Francesca Menes, CEO of financial advocacy group, Action Bridge, Ludvy Joseph, and founder of non-profit social services agency Prosperity Social & Community Development Group, Inc., Nadege Vilsaint.

From private to public practice, local legal talent also received the spotlight, from Special Assistant United States Attorney Fedline Ferjuste to Managing Partner at Elizee Law Firm, P.A., Patricia Elizee. This year was also a banner year for media and entertainment, with recognition given to TV and event producer Angie Bell, most celebrated for her work on the popular Big Night in Little Haiti concert series, as well as

Menes

May 20 Sounds of Little Haiti: Tambou Combo Little Haiti Cultural Center – 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Presented by City of Miami Commission Chairman Keon Hardemon, Sounds of Little Haiti plans to bring back the fun and excitement of the ever popular Big Night in Little Haiti. The outdoor concert will feature live music from Tabou Combo, Haitian cuisine from neighboring restaurants, retail shop vendors and “Langaj: The Political Discourse of Haitian Caricature,” LHCC's Haitian Heritage Month exhibit.

Clarke

Elizee

May 21 Haitian Compas Festival Bayfront Park, Miami – 1 p.m.

The 18th Annual Haitian Compas Festival is the largest gathering of Haitian music fans in the United States. It has been ranked among the Best in Live Music Entertainment events by Billboard Magazine. Performing Live: Djakout #1, Tvice, Carimi, Klass, Nu look, Kreyol La, Disip, K-Zino, Gardy, Girault, Nicky Mix, Francky Mixalot, Valmix, hosting by DJ Greo and DJ Gousse. Former president Michel Martelly aka “Sweet Micky” will be performing.

Gilles

CEO of Diaspora news and entertainment online platform L'union Creative, Wanda Tima-Gilles. The Consul General for Haiti in Miami, Consul Guy Francois Jr. was also selected as an awardee for this year.

The awardees will be honored in a special ceremony, scheduled for June 2, at the Little Haiti Cultural Center, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Haitian American Chamber of Commerce of Florida was established in 2005. Its mission is to serve as an advocate for its communities as well as a resource for consumers and businesses dedicated to serving both the needs of its members and the economic development needs of the broader Haitian American Community. The Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce also promotes investment and trade with the Haitian private and public sectors.

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May 23 Bouillon Night Moca Café, North Miami – 11 p.m. to 4 a.m.

Soup's up at the popular Haitian café and lounge, which will be serving up a night filled will entertainment by local konpa bands KLASS and 509.

May 25 Haitian History Bee Championship Stephen P. Clark Center, Commissioners Chamber In its fifth, year, the Haitian History Bee Championship tests local students on their knowledge of Haitian history. Teams from Miami-Dade schools from elementary, middle and high school levels compete for the top prize. The event is sponsored by MiamiDade Commission Chairman, Jean Monestime.

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A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

Question: I am in the process of applying for my US citizenship after 18 years as a permanent resident. My plans are to apply for my son (28 years old). Should I file for him now as a permanent resident, and as soon as I get my citizenship, advise immigration of my new status so the waiting time will be shorter?

Answer: As long as your adult son is single, you can sponsor him now while you are still a U.S. resident. The waiting line for an adult, single child of a U.S. resident and U.S. citizen is similar, at 7 to 8 years. The main difference is that if the adult child marries before the U.S. resident parent naturalizes, the immigrant visa is automatically cancelled.

On the other hand, adult children of U.S. citizens who marry still remain eligible. They just move from the F1 Immigration category to the F3, which currently has a waiting line of about 12 years.

Question: Hi. My marriage residency interview appointment is coming up in a few weeks in mid-May and we can't find my U.S. citizen wife's birth certificate like it says on the interview notice. We gave a copy of her American passport when we filed our application, but the notice is specifically asking for her birth certificate. Do you know if it will cause a problem at my interview if she doesn't find it by that time? Thank you.

Answer: According to USCIS policy for marriage residency interviews, your wife needs to bring proof of U.S. citizenship. Her U.S. passport should suffice if you can't find her birth certificate.. I hope this is helpful to you.

Contributions to this column are made by Attorney Caroly Pedersen, Esq. of the American Immigration Law Center.

Call 954-382-5378

Getting green cards for your parents Immigration regulations allow U.S. citizens to sponsor their parents for “Green Cards,” while permanent residents cannot. Even parents of U.S. citizens who are inside the U.S. with expired immigration status are eligible, as long as the parent entered the U.S. legally.

Parents are in the special immigration category called “immediate relatives” (which includes spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens), which gives them preference over other family immigration relationships. The only drawback of this category is that it's only for the individual parent, and does not include any dependents, such as spouses or minor children. Therefore, if the parent has a spouse who is not considered to be your parent (for

immigration purposes), he or she would not be able to immigrate along with the parent. Step-parents are considered to qualify as “parents” for immigration purposes, as long as the step-parent relationship was established before the child reached the age of 18.

The same is true of any minor children of the parent. This is a harsh rule, which often causes difficult choices for parents of U.S. citizens. One option for parents abroad who have minor children (or a spouse) is for them to obtain F-1 student visas for their minor children (or spouse) before immigrating to the U.S. In that way, both the parent and his or her child (and/or spouse) can be in the U.S. together. Once the parent obtains a green card, the parent can then sponsor his or her children and if applicable, a spouse.

Conditional Residency for spouses of U.S. citizens The foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen who has been married for less than two years at the time of obtaining residency, only receives a two-year “conditional resident” status.

Unlike regular U.S. residents who obtain a green card through family members, employment or other means, husbands and wives of U.S. citizens who got married less than two years prior to U.S. residency approval, only receive a twoyear green card, rather than the full 10-year permanent residency. In order to qualify for removal, the foreign and U.S. citizen spouses must file a request for removal of the conditional status (Form I-751) within the 90-day period prior to the conditional green card expiration.

In order to qualify, a couple must continue to not only be married, but live together as a husband and wife. The removal of

condition request must be submitted with extensive supporting documentary evidence that the couple has lived together in a real marriage. One of the biggest misconceptions that conditional residents have is the belief that as long as they remain “married” to the U.S. citizen spouse, but not actually living together, they will still qualify – a mistake that often leads to loss of residency and in some instances, deportation.

Conditional residents can file a removal request without the U.S. Citizen spouse in cases where the couple has divorced, where there is documented domestic violence and when a spouse is widowed. However, the burden of proof is on the conditional resident spouse to provide the USCIS with extensive evidence that prior to the divorce, domestic violence or death of the U.S. citizen, the couple were living together in a real marriage.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20 –

B1

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Who owns it?

Property ownership following death of co-owner Georgia D.N. Robinson One of the biggest mistakes that people make is that they buy real estate with another person, but they do not legally specify how the property will be owned upon the death of one of the owners.

If you are buying real estate with another person, whether it is a spouse, romantic partner, family member, friend or investor, the most important question to ask each other is: Who will own the property upon the other's death? Your attorney will ensure that your response to this question should be stated on the deed or title to your property.

When a person purchases real estate with another person, the information on the new deed or title (the document which states who owns the property) includes the names of the new owners and the type and percentage of ownership interest for each owner. There are at least three options for co-ownership.

The deed should also specify your wishes based on your response to these three important questions:

Option 1: Do I want my all of my share to go to my coowner immediately upon my death?

If the answer is yes, your attorney will ensure that the property will be owned by the owners as tenants by the entireties – for married couples – or joint tenants (or joint tenants with rights of survivorship) for non-married individuals. This means that as long as the owners remain married or do not make a new deed, the property will pass to the surviving owner immediately upon the death of a co-owner.

Option 2: Do I want my share to go to my heirs under my Will or as decided by the government if I die without a Will?

If the answer is yes, your attorney will specify that the property will be owned by the owners as tenants in common. This means that the property must go through a legal process called probate to transfer the interest of the co-owner who died to her or his heirs.

Option 3: Do I want my share to go to a specific individual other than my co-owner immediately upon death without going through probate?

If the answer is yes, your attorney will ensure that you create a life estate interest in the property. In this case, the person who inherits the property will have no rights or interest in the property while the owner is alive. However, your rights to the property while you are alive may be restricted.

If you do not let your attorney know the answers to these questions, the deed will not reflect your wishes. It is very likely that your property will end up in a lengthy probate process, and you will have to be wrestling with lawsuits from family members of a co-owner who died. An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of legal cure!

Always, always consult an attorney before signing a deed or title to real estate.

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

954.530.5363

National Bar Association heads to the Caribbean The National Bar Association heads to the Caribbean this week for the highly anticipated 2016 NBA Annual International Affiliates Meeting.

30 NBA delegates will first travel to BoyzOver II Men Haiti on May 18-22 and 120 NBA delegates will travel to Cuba on May 23-30.

NBA leadership and members will experience the cities of Port-au-Prince, Havana and Santiago, Cuba through a humanitarian exchange program. In Haiti, NBA members will meet with representatives of the Haitian Bar, visit the National Supreme Court and the historic Citadel – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

“As the first Black republic in our history in 1804, it is critical that we continue to build our cross cultural bonds between Haiti and the United States,” said NBA President Benjamin Crump.

“We are committed to support our professional peers in Haiti and assisting with their pursuit of great peace, security, rule of law and economic prosperity.”

In Cuba, the delegation will also visit a number of cultural and historic landmarks, meet with the Union Nacional de Jurists de Cuba to discuss ways to support the people of Cuba, and participate in a briefing and reception at the U.S. Embassy Residence.

“Given the political complexities and historical context of Cuba, we are excited regarding this opportunity to learn more about the culture and people of Cuba,” said Vanita Banks, NBA Past President and 2016 NBA International Affiliates Meeting Chair. “We look forward to understanding more about the challenges and nuances of the systems of justice and the economic realities impacting the Cuban people. Cuba is on the brink of transformative change, and the NBA stands ready to support the people of Cuba during this new era of relations between our countries.”

The program hopes to encourage a true “People to People” exchange of ideas, experiencing each country's system of life, laws, economy, as well as their culture.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

Rihanna Gives Back

Star launches scholarship fund for Diaspora Cerone White Bajan pop star Rihanna will be paying it forward to some deserving students in Caribbean and the Diaspora with her new Clara Lionel Foundation Scholarship fund. The program will provide financial support for students seeking to complete their education in the United States, particularly in health, education, arts and culture.

Applicants living in the U.S., Barbados, Brazil, Haiti, Jamaica and Guyana are eligible.

The scholarship will only be for persons

accepted into a bachelor's degree program at an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S. for the 2016-2017 academic year. Those interested will also need to submit a personal essay stating why they should be chosen.

Application deadline is June 10, and winners will be announced in August.

This scholarship will be between US$5,000 to US$50,000, and it is renewable up to three years or until a bachelor's degree is earned. Fifty students will be chosen, based on academic performance, leadership qualities and participation in school and community activities.

Grace Jamaican Jerk Fest heads to DC In honor of the city's celebrations for Caribbean-American Heritage Month in June, the South Florida-based Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival has announced plans to launch another staging in Washington D.C. Set for June 19 in Downtwon Washington, the D.C. festival will include the same signature features, from the classic to inventive spins on jerk, chef and celebrity competitions, and performances from top Caribbean stars.

For the first ever DC staging of the event, the entertainment line-up includes veteran reggae star Freddie McGregor, Jamaican crooner Christopher Martin, roots sensation Ikaya, Barbados' soca star Edwin Yearwood, the talented No-Maddz band and DC's own Image Band, along with DJ G-Nice. In addition to music, a Cultural Stage will also showcase artistic and literary performances celebrating Caribbean folk traditions. Scheduled performers include Sounds of Culture, the Pan Lara Youth Steel Orchestra, Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, author and playwright Judith Falloon-Reid, as well as a traditional Caribbean Carnival,

featuring costumed masqueraders from the 2016 DC Carnival. The event is set to take place on Sunday June 19, Downtown, Washington on Pennsylvania Avenue N.W. between 12th and 14th streets, from noon to 9:00 p.m.

The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival also hosts editions in Sunrise, FL, (set this year for November 13) and in New York. Starting out as a combined music and food fair in 2001, the festival has ballooned into an iconic event in both regions – making it ripe for expansion, says Festival CEO Eddy Edwards.

The new expansion plan, says Edwards, was inspired by the success of the New York branch of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, “where it has become an established summer event on that city's cultural calendar.”

As for which other cities may get its own Jerk Festival, in addition to D.C., Festival Chairman Abdul Mushin says “the potential markets in our expansion plan include cities with high density Jamaican communities, including Houston, Los Angeles, and Connecticut.”

In case you were wondering where Rihanna came up with this unique name for her foundation, the foundation's name is inspired by her grandparents Clara and Lionel Braithwaite. Rihanna's grandmother died of pancreatic cancer. To give others a fighting chance, Rihanna has also made substantial donations to help fight the cause back in her home country of Barbados, funding treatments for cancer patients in Barbados who cannot afford it.

The Foundation has also established the Clara Braithwaite Center for Oncology and Nuclear Medicine at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown, Barbados.

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“Ziggy Marley” – Ziggy Marley The 6th solo studio album from seven-time Grammy winner and reggae icon Ziggy Marley is rooted in and inspired by current world events, racial divides and human inequalities. Once again, Marley serves as the album's sole producer, enlisting musicians Lyle Workman, Steve Ferrone, Brain Macleod, Zac Rae, Abe Laboriel and Dave Wilder to join him in the studio.

The new self-titled album marks his first since 2014's critically acclaimed “Fly Rasta,” which took home the 2015 Grammy award for Best Reggae Album.

“Guide Me” – Gappy Ranks London-based dancehall star Jacob Lee a.k.a. Gappy Ranks is certainly not a newcomer to the reggae genre. “Guide Me” will be his fourth full-length album. “[I've] hand picked all 13tracks and delivered, compiled and executed a sure classic feeling,” says Ranks, “which hits the listener from the title track, 'Guide Me'.” In total, the album features production from a multitude of producers, including Zj Chrome from Jamaica, Costa Rebel from Costa Rica, American-based production crew Larger Than Life Records, Jugglerz Records from Germany, Asha D Records from England, Riddim Sky Records, Maximum Sound Production, Damalistik of Roots Survival, and the heavyweight production outfit, Special Delivery from France.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20 –

B3

HEALTH

Should you sleep with the door closed?

Should you sleep with your bedroom door opened or closed?

It's a straightforward question, but the answer isn't quite so clear-cut, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The association says there’s no simple a one-size-fits-all answer. New research shows that fires burn faster today as a result of the way newer homes are built and the content in the homes. This has led the NFPA to re-examine messaging around sleeping with the door closed.

“NFPA and others have long acknowledged that closing a door can impact the spread of fire, but the primary message has been and continues to be to make sure you have working

THE WISDOM TOOTH DR. SHARON ROBINSON

Dr. Sharon Robinson You probably know that a dental cavity is a hole in a tooth. But did you know that a cavity is the result of the tooth decay process that happens over time? Our mouths are full of bacteria. Hundreds of different types live on our teeth, gums, and tongue. Some bacteria are helpful. But some can be harmful, such as those playing a role in the tooth decay process. Tooth decay is the result of an infection when specific types of bacteria produce acid that destroys the tooth's enamel and its underlying layer, the dentin.

How does a cavity develop?

STAGE ONE: DEMINERALIZATION Enamel is the hard outer crystal-like layer, while Dentin is the softer layer beneath, consisting of nerves and blood vessels.

Bacteria exposed to sugars or carbohydrates can make acid, which attacks the enamel. This process is known as demineralization. The

Anything that can potentially give you more time to get out should be considered. You may have as little as two minutes to escape a home fire, compared to seven to eight minutes years ago. – Lorraine Carli

smoke alarms in your home, giving you early warning of a fire,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA's vice president of Outreach and Advocacy.

Instead, the association recommends to “install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. For the best protection, make sure all smoke alarms are

interconnected.”

As for the door open or shut question, the committee recommended additional research is needed to look at other factors, such as whether or not a closed door could delay the early warning from a smoke alarm outside the sleeping room, and how a closed door will impact the rate of fatalities when the fire begins in the room where the door is closed.

“While there are so many variables to where a fire starts and how it spreads, anything that can potentially give you more time to get out should be considered,” said Carli, emphasizing that you may have as little as two minutes to escape a home fire, compared to seven to eight minutes years ago. “Today's furnishings and open floor plans create scenarios that burn much more quickly than previous structures and their contents.”

One answer, however, is certainly clear.

Having a interconnected, properly installed fire alarm system can make the difference between life and death. “Given that the majority of fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms, we cannot stress enough the importance of making sure you have adequate protection from these life-saving devices,” said Carli.

How Does A Tooth Decay? first sign of this is a chalky white spot. At this stage, the decay process can be reversed.

Using fluorides at home and in the dental office can help the tooth repair itself.

STAGE TWO: COMPROMISED ENAMEL When demineralization continues, the enamel starts to break down. Once the enamel surface is broken, the tooth can no longer repair itself. The cavity has to be cleaned and restored by a dentist.

STAGE THREE: COMPROMISED DENTIN When the decay reaches into the dentin, it can spread and undermine the enamel. If left untreated, the decay will reach the tooth's pulp, where the tooth's nerves and blood vessels are found. When the pulp becomes infected, an abscess (swelling) or a fistula (opening to the surface of the gum) can form in the soft tissues.

Signs & Symptoms Cavity symptoms include: Ÿ Toothache Ÿ Sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold foods or drinks Ÿ Pain when chewing Ÿ Grey, brown or black spots appearing on your teeth Ÿ Bad breath

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips: Ÿ Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Ÿ Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaner. Ÿ Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking. Ÿ Check with your dentist about the use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about use of dental sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (where decay often starts) to protect them from decay. Ÿ Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examination.

Dr. Sharon Robinson DDS may be reached at The Dental Place, located at 6738 W Sunrise Blvd, Suite #105, Plantation, Fl 33313. Dr. Robinson may be contacted at 954-792-1857 or visit the website www.dentalplace4u.com.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

Marijuana citation voted to protect these offenders by having them cited. This decision should be honored by the sheriff's office.”

Attempts to make contact with the sheriff office or its spokesperson was unsuccessful, but according to reports, the department has instead elected to follow the guidelines of the state's statute for dealing with people found with marijuana. This statute makes possession of even small quantities of marijuana a misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to a year in prison and a $1,000 fine. The county's proposed policy, however, also grants case by case discretion for law enforcement, says Cooper, as officers can decide whether to issue a citation or make an arrest. In addition, the ordinance is binding only to the unincorporated

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County resident Nicola Harris, who has had close family members arrested for possession of “tiny amounts” of marijuana prior to the passage of the ordinance, wants the county commission to “take up the matter again.”

“The commission approval is very vague,” says Harris. “They should ensure it's enforceable by law enforcement once the offense is only possession of less than an ounce of the herb.”

Despite the delay by sheriff's office, County Commissioner Steven Abrams, who voted for the ordinance, said he's optimistic after further review the sheriff's office will implement the ordinance. On the other hand, according to reports, Commissioner Priscilla Taylor wants to withhold funds from the sheriff's budget to offset the cost of jailing offenders, instead of issuing citations.

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“My foray into representational politics is a natural progression,” says Douglas. “As a commissioner, my service will have a greater impact on a larger cross section of people thereby bringing my skills and experience to bear positively on people's lives.”

Unlike other Broward cities, Sunrise's municipal election isn't confined to districts, but is an at-large system where commissioners are voted for by all voters. To win this seat Douglas must win over not only voters among the city's estimated 28,000 African- and CaribbeanAmericans, but a coalition of voters from the city's estimated 85,000 residents.

Though Douglas emphasized that although he isn't running to just represent the CaribbeanAmerican community, “the city never had a minority serve on its commission, and it's time.”

He perceives the city as a majority-minority

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community and believes each candidate ought to be judged on his own merits. “I'll be successful, because I offer a diversity of skills and experience of service. Voters from the majority and minority populations will judge me on that.”

The strong Caribbean population of East Sunrise (east of University Drive), also needs greater representation, as “this large minority population has not been as well served as other areas of the city in terms of service delivery and infrastructure,” says Douglas. “That's something I will work to address. I want to ensure all city residents benefit equally.”

Douglas also plans to focus on strong fiscal management, ensuring funds for emergencies and capital activities aren't being used for recurrent expenses. He's also keen on seeking to improve the infrastructure of the city's middle schools, and engaging the youth vote.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20 –

B5

COOPER CITY

Jamerican high schooler honored by Princeton Jamaican-American Cooper City High Student Gillian Daley was honored by Princeton University this week for her efforts to promoting greater diversity and equality at her school. Daley was presented the Princeton Prize in Race Relations for her efforts this past Tuesday, May 17, in Miami with Cooper City Mayor Greg Ross in attendance.

A senior at Cooper City High, Daley was praised for founding her school's Multicultural Club. The club seeks to engage students and teachers talking about empowerment issues at the club's weekly meetings. She also organized events such as a Privilege Walk, to illustrate the many factors that play into people's success, and erecting the school's Peace Pole. The Peace Pole displays the message "May Peace Prevail on Earth" in 14 languages.

Daley is one of 33 high school students selected from around the United States for the 2016 Princeton Prize in Race Relations. The awards recognize young people who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the cause of positive race relations and who have worked to increase understanding and respect among all races.

The award is part of the The Princeton University Diversity Project.

Established in 2003, the project seeks to recognize young people who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the cause of positive race relations and who have worked to increase understanding and respect

(L-R) Principal of Cooper City High Wendy Doll, Gillian Daley, Chair of the South Florida Princeton Prize on Race Relations Committee, Jonathan Colan and Mayor of Cooper City Greg Ross.

among all races. A board that consists of Princeton University alumni, administrators and students select the recipients. Recipients receive recognition and cash awards up to $1000 for their efforts determined to have a significant positive effect on race relations in their schools or communities.

BROWARD

Broward receives $8 mil for county's homeless The Broward County Homeless Initiative Partnership has been awarded over $8.1 million in grants by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support the county's “A Way Home” Plan to End Homelessness program.

The new grants will fund 18 renewal initiatives and 1 new project providing permanent housing, transitional housing, supportive services, and Homeless Management Information System support. The projects plan to specially provide 705 permanent, 112 rapid rehousing, and 25 transitional beds (842 beds total) with related supportive services to Broward's homeless population.

These new funds will also create 30 new permanent supportive housing beds for chronically homeless persons, in partnership with the Broward County Housing Authority

and Broward Housing Solutions.

The new program is specifically targeting vulnerable adult and youth clients, including families, veterans, those with mental, emotional and physical disabilities, individuals with substance abuse disorders, and those who are “chronically” homeless and those who have cooccurring disorders. All the projects funded help

fulfill goals set out in the “A Way Home” Plan to End Homelessness, approved by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners in August 2013.

This year's Broward County Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, conducted over a three-day period on January 26-28, 2016 shows that the total number of sheltered and unsheltered persons experiencing homelessness in Broward County has decreased by 12 percent, from 2,615 to 2,302. The number of unsheltered persons decreased by 5 percent from 815 to 782. Both figures are comparisons to the same count done in January 2015.

For the Point-in-Time Count, the federal government identifies homelessness as those individuals living in places not meant for human habitation, emergency shelters or transitional housing programs.

XLCR alumni host Reunion & Family Fun Day XLCR Alumni giving back “with thy might” Local alumni of prestigious Excelsior High School in Jamaica will be hosting their 6th Annual Sports Day Event, set for Saturday May 21, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Cinnamon Ridge Park in Pembroke Pines. Filled with sporting events and familyfriendly fun, this event is extended to all Excelsior High School's past and present attendees and their families and friends.

Sporting activities will include football, netball, relays and other field events.

Following the day's festivities, there will also be dinner and dance, featuring live entertainment from Mr. Peppa, straight out of Jamaica, as well as fellow Excelsorian, singer/songwriter Novel-T. In addition to entertainment, there will be a night filled with prizes and surprises.

This year's event also seeks to give back to the alma mater. A scholarship fund has been created at Fundly.com where people can log onto the website and submit their donations.

“We are very big on giving back, as we feel success begins to foster from our early years in life,” says event co-organizer, Petrane Reddick. “The event is a way of connecting in a family environment while keeping the spirit of our Alma motto Age Animo 'Do it with thy might' and our school name Excelsior which means 'yet higher'.”

The event is being organized by Excelsior past students Petrane Reddick, Neisha Morgan, Raymond Quallo, Kirk Williams Atherly Soman and Sean Miller. Tickets for the event can be obtained at eventbrite.com.

B6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

Business, not barrels region beyond remittances.

“Barrels do not an economy make,” said Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of Carib-Export, in an interview with Caribbean National Weekly. “One of the biggest challenges with a diaspora is that they also represent what we've lost. That's the other side of the coin we tend to ignore. We have an incredible Diaspora, excelling in every area - medicine, technology, accounting, law, you name it. But when you have an 85 percent brain drain in two of our major countries in the region, that has an incredible impact on our development.”

Instead, “one of the things we hope to

MARKETPLACE

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accomplish is to bring back some of that brain power, that innovative thinking, and those connections they've developed, because it's not just about money,” said Coke-Hamilton. “if you do not have the skillset to make [industries] successful, then the money is pointless.”

The industries highlighted at this event particularly seek to attract these desired highly skilled and connected members of the Diaspora back to the Caribbean. With the growing demand for niche travel such as sports and medical tourism, “these are two significant areas where the Diaspora has developed linkages, where the diaspora can reinvest, and where there are opportunities to collaborate at various levels.” Industry know-how in the

technological sector is also need to support a planned “creativity park” – a one stop platform of resources and connections for the region's booming “internet generation,” which has been the driving force behind the growth of app development and animation in the Caribbean.

Carib-Export has also confirmed plans to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the New York-based Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACCI).

Both organizations plan to host a “joint conference” in the future to engage with communities abroad. But, says Coke-Hamilton, these sessions will be different from past events.

Instead, conferences would focus only on “select linkages” with key individuals and

organizations that have the specific skill sets required for the Caribbean's growing sectors.

“We need to explain to the Diaspora what we're looking for…and what the best forms of engagement will be for us, as opposed to simply [having] summits,” says Coke-Hamilton.

For President of the Jamaica/USA Chamber of Commerce, Marie Gill, the summit provided a refreshing view of Diaspora investment, that “you don't need to be a multimillionaire to come to the table.”

“We still don't trust sufficiently to collaborate and partner,” says Gill. “But that is how a lot of business is getting done these days – pooling resources so you can take advantage of an opportunity.”

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20 –

VOLLEYBALL

Bolt returns to the Track

Team Jamaica one step closer to Olympics The Jamaica Women's Beach Volleyball Team will advance to the final round of Olympic Qualifiers in Acapulco, Mexico next month, following their recent double victories in the third round of the Beach Olympic Qualifications in El Salvador recently. 12 teams from the region were competing for an Olympic spot in the North Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation

(NORCECA) Olympic Games qualification.

The team of Sashalee Wallen, Kai Wright, Alicia Malcolm, and South Florida's own Danielle Perry neatly defeated both St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago for the coveted spot.

They won against St Lucia 16-5 in a golden set, with the pair of Perry and Wright winning the all-important set after the teams were tied.

They then overcame Trinidad & Tobago 3-2,

Wins at Cayman Invitational

after being forced into a third and deciding set.

The team went on to finish in 4th place, just barely missing out on the bronze medal after losing to Nicaragua. Jamaica is the only Caribbean team to finish among the top four, among Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.

The top four finishers are guaranteed to compete in the final Olympic qualifying round.

CRICKET / LAUDERHILL T20

T&T and Guyana face off in finals Teams Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago head to the 2016 City of Lauderhill T20 Intl. Night Cricket Tournament finals this weekend, after emerging victorious from a competitive semi-final round last weekend at the Lauderhill Sports Park.

The two teams will face off to earn the ultimate crown this Saturday, May 21, 2016 starting at 6.30, follow by the presentation, at the Lauderhill Sports Park.

In their semi-final match, Trinidad & Tobago brushed aside last year's finalist, India, winning by 103 runs. Winning the toss and electing to field, India's bowlers were unable to restrict the Trinidadian batsmen, who earned 211 for 4 in the allotted 20 overs. USA national representative Akeem Dobson laid the foundation with a stylish and entertaining 82 runs from 53 balls, including five fours and five sixes. Dobson shared a second wicket partnership of 75 runs with Ken Singh, who blasted 39 runs from 25 balls, featuring three fours and four sixes. Dodson also shared a 96 runs third wicket partnership with Navin Stewart, who smashed 54 runs from 33 balls, laced with three fours and four sixes. Bowling for India, Renjith Chandran bagged 2 for 33 and Prasathi Kalvakuntia 1 for 25.

In reply, the Indians' batmen faltered, with

Mighty T&T Teammates Navin Stewart (L) and Timothy Surujbally

B7

108 runs in 14.3 overs against a disciplined Trinidad & Tobago's bowling attack, led by Stefan Babula, who finished with 3 for 14 from his allotted 4 fours. India's batsmen failed miserably in chasing the victory target, with only Vasu Konduru and Punith Kainthola producing good enough scores to reach the 20's. Konduru and Kainthola combined for a 53-run fourth wicket partnership, with Konduru scoring a delightful 32 and Kainthola 20.

Bowling for Trinidad & Tobago, Babula received valuable assistance from USA national representative Timothy Surajbally, who grasped 3 for 26, while veteran Ken Singh snared 2 for 24, Nevin Stewart 1 for 6 and Anil Khan 1 for 10.

Meanwhile, the semi-final match-up against defending champions Jamaica and the tournament’s number one seed Guyana ended without a ball being bowl. Persistent heavy showers left the Lauderhill Sports Park outfield in unplayable condition. Match umpires and the match referee declared the game abandoned leaving Guyana to advance to the finals.

Tournament rules states that in the event the semifinal games are abandoned, the team with the best net run rate (NRR) in the preliminary rounds will advance to the finals.

Olympic six time gold medalist and 100m world record holder Usain Bolt opened his 2016 season with a 10.05 second clocking to win the event at the 5th staging of the Cayman Invitational on Saturday night. It was Bolt's first race since last summer's World Championships in Beijing, China, where he captured three gold medals. Bolt's Racers' club-mate Kemar Bailey-Cole, winner at the Jamaica International Invitational, was third in a time of 10.18 seconds.

The six-time Olympic champion grimaced after crossing the finish line, saying his performance in the race was “rusty” after a long offseason. “I need to get a few more races under my belt,” Bolt, who has been recovering from an ankle injury since the winter season. “By [Olympic] trials time, I'll be ready.”

Earlier, 2008 Olympic silver medalist Kerron Stewart was a second place finisher in the women's 100 meters in 11.20 seconds behind American Jenna Prandini who took the women's sprint double in times of 11.16 and 22.63 seconds.

Another Jamaican, Jura Levy was 4th in 11.36. Intercollegiate champion Demish Gay posted a personal best 45.30 for 2nd in the men's 400 meters behind Trinidadian Machel Cedenio with 45.10 seconds.

Usain Bolt

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B8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, MAY 19 – MAY 25, 2016 | VOL. 13 NO. 20

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

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ANTIGUA ST. MAARTEN

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