NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
T H E
M O S T
W I D E L Y
C I R C U L A T E D
C A R I B B E A N
A M E R I C A N
N E W S P A P E R
I N
F L O R I D A
Rise in deportation arrests CARIBBEAN
T&T PM DENIES MARIJUANA FOUND AT HER HOME PAGE A4
Talk UP JAMES OR CURRY – WHO IS BETTER?
PAGE A5
HAITI
LAMOTHE REJECTED BY ELECTORAL COUNCIL
PAGE A7
ENTERTAINMENT
MISS JAMAICA HOSTS CARIB STYLE WEEK
PAGE C1
SPORTS
MARLON SAMUELS SUPPORTS BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED
PAGE C5
A new study has revealed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has hiked up deportation arrests in South Florida for profit margins. “Banking on Detention: Local Lockup Quotas and the Immigrant Dragnet,” by Detention Watch Network and the Center for Constitutional Rights, confirmed that field offices specifically increased arrests to maintain the 34,000 beds, as contracted with private companies running detention centers. In South Florida alone, a minimum of 450 detainees a day were required to maintain funding at the Krome Detention Center in Miami-Dade County, and a minimum of 500 at the Broward Detention Center, owned by the GEO Group in Pompano Beach.
One report stated 62 percent of all ICE detention beds in the U.S. are currently operated by for-profit prison corporations. Profit margins have also increased for these enterprises. The Homeland Security Appropriations Act in 2010, which has oversight over ICE's detention budget, authorized the controversial “immigrant detention quota” policy, which tied funding to minimum occupancy. Since then, private business have entered the industry to earn a portion of the promised funding. One report stated that 62 percent of all ICE detention beds in the U.S. are continues on A6 – Deportations
JAMAICA
To vote or not to vote Diaspora weighs in on voting rights Kathy Barrett The debate is age old as it relates to the rights of the Jamaican Diaspora to actively participate in Jamaica's electoral process. It's an issue that has been brought into focus once more as the 6th biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, taking place in Montego Bay, Jamaica. With an increasing number of countries widening their democratic horizons overseas, it has often been debated whether Jamaicans living overseas could sit in Parliament with the creation of three additional constituencies, one each from the United continues on C4 – To vote, or not to vote
Bartlett
Palm Beach School District denies making registration difcult for undocumented children The Palm Beach County School District is taking measures to ensure immigrant students attending county's public schools are not denied entry. Their pledge follows reports from Department of Justice (DOJ), stating that schools have not eliminated discriminatory practices blocking children of undocumented immigrants from enrolling. Kathy Burstein, spokeswoman for the District, said it has taking measures to adhere to the stipulations set by the DOJ in 2013.
Director of the Department of Safer Schools, June Eassa, defended the school board's efforts, saying the district has been “deliberate in ensuring there's a uniform enrollment policy applicable to all of the district's 189 public schools.” “The criteria for registration is applicable to students of all ethnicities, immigrant and non immigrant, in the school district,” says Eassa. “It is incumbent on the principals and officers of each school to ensure all applicants continues on C3 – Undocumented
A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
Pu ng on a show Singer/songwriter Kris ne Alicia gets the crowd moving at the recently held Caribbean Village at the Central Broward Regional Park last Sunday. – Uriah Benne photo
Looking chic (L-R) Deanna Greene, Shewana Passley and Shachea Chris e share camera lens at June's birthday party last weekend in Lauderdale Lakes. – Uriah Benne photo
Catching up with the Na onal Weekly These avid readers took some me to skim through the Na onal Weekly while they a ended Caribbean Village last Sunday at the Central Broward Regional Park. – Uriah Benne photo
Working the stage Jamaica's top female jazz performer, Myrna Hague commands the stage at the recently held Jazz Matazz at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday. – Gail Zucker photography
Ribbon-cu ng ceremony Members of the Barbados American Chamber of Commerce at their ribbon-cu ng ceremony on Tuesday in Miramar. (From le ) Barbara Brathwaite, Trevor Rouse and Rose Cumberbatch – Monique McIntosh photo
Let's talk business Businessman Wesley Kirton and Deputy Consul General, Cheryl Gaile Thompson pose for our photographer at the ribbon-cu ng ceremony of the Barbados-American Chamber of Commerce in Miramar on Tuesday. – Monique McIntosh photo
Chilling at the Village (L-R) Founder of the Galleon Founda on Lindell Douglas, Broward Commissioner Barbara Sharief and her husband Commissioner Maxell Chambers hang out at Caribbean Village last weekend – Uriah Benne photo
Birthday girl June Doughty looks beau ful as ever as she celebrates her birthday in style last weekend in Lauderdale Lakes. – Uriah Benne photo
Jazzing it up Reggae singer Highland Dobson and musician Eugene Grey perform at the annual Caribbean Jazz Matazz at the Broward Center for Performing Arts on Sunday. – Gail Zucker photography
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25 –
A3
NEWS
Florida Senate nally approves budget With the deadline just days away, the Florida Senate and House have finally settled on a $79 billion budget with $400 million in tax cuts, less than the $300 million originally approved by the House in April. Speaking to the National Weekly, Florida Representative Hazelle Rogers says she's “elated” that the cuts include a 10 day tax holiday on back-to-school shopping. “The holiday will cover tax-free clothing and assorted school supplies and equipment, including no taxes on the first $750 for computers,” says Rogers.
Also included in the tax cuts are reduced taxes on cable TV and cell phone bills, and the elimination of sales taxes on college text books. Cuts on big-ticket ticket items such as boat and yacht repairs and gun clubs, were also included. Though expressing concerns that taxes on high-priced luxury items could have “been diverted to assist with the provision of healthcare coverage to Florida's low income residents,” Rogers says she is “satisfied with the budget, and more satisfied we have a budget. The outcome shows Republicans
and Democrats can work together to arrive at compromise.” The budget is subject to ratification by the full Legislature, then will be submitted to Governor Rick Scott. Rogers was cautious in specifying dollar amounts for some Broward County projects. These projects include a joint partnership between the Caribbean Chamber of Commerce and Broward College to provide mentorship and training for entrepreneurs in the region's enterprise zone; resurfacing and reconstruction of roads and sidewalks in
North Lauderdale; and funding for a summer internship program in the City of Lauderdale Lakes. She did note that significant funds were approved to document the state's African-American history by the Florida African-American Heritage Preservation Network. Miami-Dade projects funded in the budget include Mount Sinai Medical Center, land acquisition at Florida International University, a cultural facility in Opa-Locka, and infrastructure improvements for the Miami Design District.
Controversy over North Miami principal's removal Alberto Iber, the former North Miami High School Principal removed from office following controversial comments on the Mckinney police incident, will be reassigned to alternate administrative duties, pending the outcome of an inquiry. Iber was dismissed following comments he made on social media supporting the action by police in a viral video, showing a white police officer in Mckinney, Texas throwing and holding a teen-girl on the ground, and pulling a gun on other teenagers during a call at a pool party. The former principal, whose school had a student body of 99 percent
minorities, posted a message on Facebook arguing the officer “feared for his life, and did nothing wrong.” Defending the District's decision, Miami-Dade School District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho said that his removal was “not an infringement on freedom of speech, but rather our standard procedure when dealing with matters that have the potential to interrupt the learning environment and operation of a school.” Dr. Lloyd Cohen former president of the Jamaica Association of Dade Educators (JADE), said while he supports Carvalho reassigning Iber, he was relieved he wasn't fired. This issue, argued Dr. Cohen, was
one of sensitivity training. “I believe educators in South Florida should be more sensitive to the diversity and implications related to the region's ethnicity,” said Dr. Cohen. One report stated Iber tried to remove the comment immediately after posting it. But to Ralston Burgess, a former student and father of current students at North Miami High, says whether or not Iber meant the post, the thoughts behind them were of concern. “It makes me uncomfortable that the Hispanic principal of an overwhelming Black populated schools, couldn't see a problem with Black teenagers, especially a
Barry-Smith
15-year old girl, being abused by a white police officer,” said Burgess said. “To me this means he's comprised in his racial outlook as principal.” On the other hand, another parent, Thelma Trottman credited Iber for “improved the school's academic performance and discipline.” She noted that said she has never witnessed anything racist during Iber's one-year tenure as principal. Trottman believed Iber's comments were related not to the race of the McKinney police or the race of the students, but “to what he may have regarded as the actions of undisciplined teenagers at the pool party.”
A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
DOMINICA
REGION
ECC rejects appeal of Grenadian ex-army of icer
US$60m in fake goods seized across the Caribbean
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court on Monday dismissed an appeal by former army officer Ewart Layne who hoped to gain admittance to the legal bar here. In 2013, a Grenadian judge ruled that Layne – who was one of 17 men convicted of murder for his involvement in the 1993 coup – should be blocked from the legal profession. On Monday, the regional court, currently hearing regional cases in Dominica, rejected Layne's appeal of the decision handed down, saying it found “no unfairness” in the judge's ruling. Layne's lawyers said they will appeal to the Britain-based Privy Council. Layne was part of the “Grenada 17,” the group arrested for the killings of Prime Minister Maurice Bishop, four Cabinet ministers and six supporters on October 19, 1983.
The international police organization (INTERPOL) says car parts, fuel, food, detergent, cigars, shampoo and steel were among the fake goods worth nearly US$ 60 million seized in a two-week operation across the Americas and the Caribbean. Code-named Maya II, INTERPOL said more than 2,000 interventions by police, customs, investigators and Intellectual Property (IP) units were carried out at key locations including markets, border control points and shops across 19 countries and territories. INTERPOL said the operation was coordinated by its Trafficking in Illicit Goods and Counterfeiting unit. Investigations carried out by national authorities led to the identification and dismantling of several organized crime networks, as well as entire businesses selling counterfeit goods,
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INTERPOL said. In the Dominican Republic, authorities seized more than 100 bags of charcoal at the Haitian border, in addition to identifying and closing down two illegal factories manufacturing laundry detergent. A shopping Centre in Santo Domingo was also found selling fake goods along with genuine brands after their supply chain had been infiltrated by organized crime networks. A bootleg distillery was also shut down, and tests on the illegal alcohol seized during the raids showed it to contain potentially lethal additives. In Cuba, the police seized hundreds of fake boxes ready to be filled with fake brand-name cigars. It said other examples of seizures include counterfeit rifle scopes in Canada; fake electrical goods in Trinidad and Tobago; video game controllers in Mexico; and jeans and T-shirts in Curaçao. The operation was supported by the Caribbean Customs Law Enforcement Council.
T&T PM denies marijuana found at her home Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has dismissed allegations by her former embattled national security minister Austin “Jack” Warner that a quantity of marijuana had been found at her home in April 2013. “More lies and distractions which I have placed in the hands of my lawyers, should Mr. Warner have any information about any wrong doing he should take it to the police and the FBI,” Prime Minister Persad Bissessar said. On Sunday, the Trinidad Express newspaper carried a front page story in which Warner is quoted as saying that on Friday April 12, 2013, former deputy Commissioner of Police Mervyn Richardson came to Parliament and informed him that a packet containing four ounces of marijuana was
found outside a window of Persad Bissessar's private residence at Phillipine. Warner, who was national security minister at the time, has since submitted a statement to Justice of the Peace Anthony Soulette with the allegation. He said after he was approached by the former senior police officer, he summoned Leader of Government Business, Dr. Roodal Moonilal who advised him to contact the Prime Minister, who was in New York at the time. Warner claimed when he contacted the Prime Minister, she was surprised and enquired whether she should return home immediately and resign. He claimed further that he advised Persad Bissessar to not resign as he, Richardson, Moonilal and former national security adviser Gary Griffith would cover up the ganja matter.
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25 –
Talk UP Lebron James or Stephen Curry who is the better player and why? Donald – Sunrise Lebron is better than Curry. He's a better shooter, a better dribbler and a better passer than Curry. He deserves the accolades that he has received over the years. Rick - Lauderhill I am a Miami Heat fan so Lebron is in my life. He is a part of my basketball experience. I'm still a little upset that he went to Cleveland. For me, Lebron is a better overall player than Curry. I might be biased, but that's just the way that I feel. Sandra – Miramar Curry all the way! Curry has an energy, dynamism and drive that when combined with his skill and humility makes him a better player. Lebron may have more experience and skill, but the combination of attributes makes Curry stand head and shoulders above Lebron. He absolutely deserved to have won the championship! John – Kingston I think Curry is a better player. He is hungry, sharp, energetic, a great shooter and he deserves his time to shine. Like Jordan and others like him, Lebron needs to take a rest now and give someone else a chance. Albia - Lauderhill I love Lebron. I think he's just a little tired and frustrated. People have been doing a lot of talking and giving him a lot of pressure. He's been going through a difficult time, but he will get over it and shine again. He has a new team and it's going to take a little time for them to gel, but once they do, he'll be back on top. Pastor Arthur – Margate People say that Steph Curry is the best shooter of all time, but Lebron is a great player. He controls the game in more aspects than Curry. Curry is a good player, but at this moment, Lebron is a better all around player. If Curry could play better defense and if he was more involved on both sides of the court then maybe we could say that he is better than Lebron. Duvela - Miami Gardens Steph Curry is the better player. In this game, being a team player is crucial. Curry is a true team player. He doesn't play a selfish game like Lebron. You can't win by yourself. You need the strength and support of everyone pulling together. That's what Steph Curry has with Golden State. Dwight - Miramar I honestly wanted Lebron to lose because of how he left Miami, but I have to give him his respect. Lebron is the man. He's an excellent player, but Curry is a better team player. I also think that Lebron could also use a dose of humility. His cockiness is unnecessary. Simone – Miami Lebron is a better player than Curry for many reasons. To begin with, he is the first player in NBA history to score an average of over 30 points in the first 4 games of the NBA finals. He's evolved into one of the game's greatest defensive players in NBA history like Charles Barkley and Shaq, he can post you up like MJ, his point guard skills are like Jason Kidd's, he plays with the intensity of Derek Rose, his form is similar to Majic Johnson's. He's excellent. Andrew – Pembroke Park They are both good. Lebron #1 and Curry #2. Curry could not have won a game if he played with Cleveland and their castoffs. Lebron won two games by himself and could have won more if he nd rd got a little help. Keep in mind his 2 and 3 best payers were on the bench. Lebron is truly the superior player.
A5
A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
Regulation of career colleges welcomed The U.S. Department of Education's recent announcement that student debt incurred under Corinthian College will be forgiven again casts the spotlight on the legitimacy of for-profit schools. Are these institutions providing crucial alternatives for people seeking better work opportunities, or are they deceptive corporations more interest in profit that education? Career colleges were designed to play a very important role in preparing individuals for the job market. Several high school graduates do not meet requirements for traditional four-year colleges, but most can earn practical qualifications for midmanagerial or para-professional jobs. Some thirty years ago, when career colleges were less popular, students had to rely on their own resources to fund their education at these colleges. Later, when the federal government made accredited career colleges eligible for federal student loans, a plethora of colleges opened across Florida and the rest of the country. As the colleges spread, aggressively marketing to student with access to federal loans, criticism grew concerning the viability of some career colleges. While these colleges promoted themselves as providers of job-generating education, several reports showed a high percentage of graduates were unable to find jobs with the certificates and diplomas they held. Some schools were also criticized for offering sub-par courses conducted by teachers lacking the necessary qualifications and experience. As the criticism grew, calls have increased for the U.S. Congress to tighten the regulations governing these colleges. Effective in July, the Obama administration
should be able to operate profitably, and continue being eligible for federal student loans. Over the years, thousands of Caribbean-Americans have sought to advance their careers at South Florida career colleges. Some have benefitted by making their career advancements. Others have been frustrated, not making progress after borrowing and paying these colleges large sums for fees. It is important to have more Caribbean-Americans advance in their careers, and this should be made possible through more regulated and closely monitored career colleges.
Deportations will implement a new law that prohibits federal funds (in the form of federal student loans) going to colleges where there is a high percentage of graduates who cannot obtain jobs. This so-called “gainful employment” law has in turn drawn critics, who argue such regulation could result in the closure of several career colleges that cannot survive without revenue from fees paid from student loans. The argument is justifiable, as since the law was proposed, several career college chains operating schools in South Florida have been closed or sold. To some, the closure of schools is unfortunate, but it is important that the career college industry retains schools operating at high levels of efficiency, and offering quality designed courses that research indicate are in-demand on the job market. Understandably, these career colleges are for-profit institutions seeking financial gain, but colleges cannot compromise the quality of education they offer, or promise qualifications for jobs they cannot deliver. Regulations by federal and state agencies are important to ensure that career colleges place quality of education and job placement potential as primary priorities. The schools that adhere to this regulation
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EDITORIAL from A1
currently operated by for-profit prison corporations. Profit margins have also increased for these enterprises. For Corrections Corporation of America (CCA), their profits have increased from $133,373,000 in 2007 to $195,022,000 in 2014, while GEO Group realized an astonishing 244 percent increase from $41,845,000 in 2007 to $143,840,000 in 2014. As an alternative, Shernette Simmons, immigration attorney and advocate, says she and other local advocates want Congress to implement an Alternate to Detention Program (ADP). An ADP, says Simmons, would “significantly reduce the current detention program, replacing it with lesser penalties.” “Detention should be reserved for only the most serious cases of law infringement by legal and undocumented immigrants,” says Simmons. These advocates are also campaigning for Congress to stop tying funding for ICE to immigration detention quotas effective in 2016. They also want Congress to strengthen its oversight of contracts with private prisons, penalizing those who abuse detainees and continue to detain immigrants who are be held despite their detention being deemed unjustifiable by ICE authorities.
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25 –
A7
LA SECCION HAITIENNE
Lamothe rejected by Electoral Council The nine-member Provisional Electoral Council approved 58 names, but rejected Lamonthe as well as former Foreign Minister Duly Brutus and former Social Affairs Minister Josefa Gauthier. While the council gave no reason for rejecting the candidates, political observers say this is usually done if the candidates fail to obtain discharge certificates from Parliament, certifying that they properly managed state funds during their tenure. Lamonthe, who served as prime
Despite pleas for support to the Diaspora in a recent visit to Miami, Former Haitian Prime Minister Laurent Lamonthe is among 13 politicians rejected by the Electoral Council as Haiti prepares for presidential and general elections later this year.
qualified presidential candidates allegedly rejected for political rather than legal reasons. “Sen. Rubio believes that it is important that the Haitian people have the opportunity to freely and fairly choose their leaders,” sad Rubio spokeswoman Brooke Sammon in a public statement. “The Senator is pleased that the State Department will now be required to continue to update Congress on the status of Haiti's elections to help ensure that the Haitian government is responsive to the needs of its citizens.”
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minister during the period 2012-2014, also lacked the necessary discharge. Critics however have argued that other candidates with similar lack of discharge have been approved by the council. Last month, the Council blocked a former justice minister and a social affairs minister from running for the Senate because they did not have their discharge. Haiti is expected to hold local elections in August followed by the first round of presidential elections in October and a final round in December.
New NSU exhibit shows Haitian art photography through the decades
Sen. Rubio says U.S. funding should be tied to election In the midst of his president campaign, South Florida Senator Marco Rubio made a decisive stance in the current election controversy in Haiti by sponsoring several election amendments in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The amendment ties U.S. State department funding to reports from international observers on whether the election is free, fair and legitimate. Many critics read the move as Sen. Rubio stretching his political acumen in the international arena. Some read the move as an unspoken vote of support for
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Starting June 21, the Nova Southeastern University (NSU) Art Museum Fort Lauderdale will present the first comprehensive museum survey of Haitian photography in their exhibit “From Within and Without: The History of Haitian Photography.” The exhibition's nearly 350 works from the late 19th century to the present contrast historical pieces with the work of contemporary Haitian artists and photographers, offering a fascinating perspective on life in Haiti. “From Within and Without” features documentary, commercial, and official state photography, along with photographs from studio archives,
family snapshots, and graphic arts that incorporate photography and film, documenting Haiti's public and domestic architecture, its landscape and political history. “From Within and Without” is organized by NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale and is curated by Haitian-American artist Edouard Duval-Carrié. Duval-Carrié's work “The Indigo Room, Or is Memory Water Soluble,” – a room-size, mixed media installation that brings to life the story of the historical and contemporary Haitian experience – is also on display in the main lobby, as part of the museum's permanent collection.
A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
FEATURE
MISS
JAMAICA DIASPORA Meet this year's lovely contestants for the 2015 Miss Jamaica Diaspora Pageant, set for this Sunday, June 21st, at the Miramar Cultural Center at 6 p.m. Dedicated to their philanthropy, these proud Caribbean-American hail from across the U.S. The National Weekly gives the rundown on the ten accomplished ladies behind the satin sash.
Marla SpencE
Age: 25 Hometown: Miami, FL Philanthropy: VP of the Living Legends Organiza on for Senior Ci zens and volunteer for Miami Rescue Mission
Shana Simpson
Age: 27 Hometown: Orlando, FL Philanthropy: Member of Best Buddies Organiza on and marathon runner for various chari es
Ashli Wright
Age: 23 Hometown: Miami, FL Philanthropy: Organized marathons for Susan G. Koman and American Cancer Society, and assisted families with obtaining treatment
Moya Morgan
Age: 23 Hometown: Coral Springs, FL Philanthropy: Volunteer for the Homeless Voice Charity Walk
Jodi Campbell
Age: 19 Hometown: Clemont, FL Philanthropy: Founder of King's Jewels Book Club and organizer for Amway Back-to-School Drive
Taisha Monet Smellie
Age: 22 Hometown: Sunrise, FL Philanthropy: Volunteer at Joe DiMaggio Hospital and mentor for Miss Hosanna Praise
Nya Miller
Age: 25 Hometown: Tamarac, FL Philanthropy: Founder of JLS Youth Empowerment and volunteer for the Feeding South Florida and Habitat for Humanity
Kerissa Nelson
Age: 25 Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, FL Philanthropy: Volunteer for American Cancer Society's Relay for Life and Catwalk for Children with Au sm
Mitsouki Garvey Sanchez
Age: 21 Hometown: Lilburn, GA Philanthropy: Volunteer for kindergarten reading program and mentor for middle schools cheerleading team
Rohannia Mooyin
Age: 23 Hometown: Volunteer for YMCA, CT Food Bank, Augustana Homes and Making Strides Against Breast Canccer
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25 –
National Visa Center announces website glitch advisory The National Visa Center (NVC) has been experiencing ongoing technical problems, making it impossible for many immigrants to complete visa application and pay the necessary fees. As a result, the NVC has issued these instructions for those affected, until the issues are resolved: Payment of the Immigrant Visa processing and Afdavit of Support fees For those who are unable to pay through the online system, payment can be made by mail. Be sure to include a copy of the bill, along with a cashier's check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State for the amount listed. The NVC does not accept personal checks. Also be sure to write your NVC case number on the memo line of the cashier's check or money order. Mail the payment to: NVC Fee Processing Center P.O. Box 790136, St. Louis, MO 631790136
Access to the online DS260 form Those unable to access the online DS260 form should wait up to 10 days while the NVC corrects the technical issues. If you are unable to access the form after that time, the NVC advises calling the center at the telephone number provided on the NVC instructions.
FOR MORE
B1
Question: I am married to an American and we filed for my green card a few months ago and I got my receipts and did my biometrics appointment. But then we received a letter from immigration asking me for a copy of that little paper called the I-94 card. I came in the U.S. as a tourist back in 2002, but I lost that card a long time ago. We wrote a letter back to immigration explaining that I lost it and could not provide it. But we were so shocked when we got a letter denying my residency case because I didn't have that card! That means that we lost all the $1500 filing fees! Is it true that they can really deny my green card just for that? Can you please do something because I just don't have that paper anymore! Answer: Unfortunately, yours is very common problem. Immigration regulations require proof of legal entrance. That little I-94 paper called an “Arrival/Departure” card is issued by the immigration officer to visitors entering the U.S. Without providing a copy proving you entered the U.S. legally, the USCIS will deny your case, even when you provide other evidence, such as an entrance stamp copy in your passport. These days, the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol CBP no longer issues I-94 cards and instead allows traveler's to download I-94 printouts for entries within the past several years from their website – but it does not have records going back far enough to access your I-94. What we will do is apply for your I-94 replacement and reapply for your residency case immediately. The USCIS will then process your case and we will provide you with your I-94 replacement card to submit to the USCIS officer at your residency interview. Question: I have three U.S. citizen kids born in America ages 8, 12 and 17 during the time my wife and I were in the U.S. on student visas. I also have a U.S. citizen sister. I would like to move to the U.S. so my kids can grow up there and I can work and be able to support them. How do I obtain legal status to live and work in the U.S.? Answer: As the parent of young U.S. citizen children, immigration regulations do not provide any special benefits allowing you to live in the U.S. with them. At least one of the children must reach age 21 to sponsor your U.S. residency. Your sister can file an immigration petition, but sibling immigration sponsorship has a long waiting line of 12-14 years. There are other options available, including obtaining an investment, work or study visa, which would allow you to live in the U.S. with your children
B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
CAHM
CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Celebrating the Diaspora's Future Celebrating Caribbean-American Heritage Month, National Weekly shines the spotlight on the next generation of inspiring Caribbean-Americans. This week, we pro ile two talented young Caribbean-Americans excelling in academics. Dinesh Alexander
Ashantee Smith
Future Doctor and Proud UF Gator Caribbean Background: Trinidadian and Jamaican
Future Environment Lawyer and Proud Animal Advocate Caribbean Background: Guyanese
Love for medicine: A pre-med student at University of Florida, Dinesh is most excited about exploring medical research. “Shands Hospital is based right on campus and the medical program is crawling with opportunities,” says Dinesh. But always, his motivation to progress further in his studies hits close to home. “The opportunity wasn't there for many in my family to pursue their dreams,” says Dinesh. “To know that they sacrificed to get me where I am today, I want to give back to them and others.”
Love for the Law: Currently completing a Master's in Public Administration and Urban Policy at Brooklyn College, Ashantee was inspired to refocus on environmental law after watching the PB Oil Spill aftermath in 2010. “The images of the animals affected from the oil spill reignited that flame,” says Ashantee. “My dream is to eventually help create more treaties to protect the natural environment.”
Most memorable moment: “Definitely meeting President Obama,” says Dinesh. “He gave me the advice to, 'Keep doing what I'm doing,' and that stuck with me, that success will always come to people who never give up.”
Most memorable moment: A recent study abroad trip exploring international environment treaties to China, says Ashantee, helped opened her eyes to modern-day challenges in climate change. “Watching the natives struggle just to breathe was another confirmation that this was the field I belonged in.”
Downtime Escape: Aside from medicine, “I'm an ethnomusicologist minor,” says Dinesh. “I play the piano and bass guitar, and perform in a Reggae/Soca band with my cousin.”
Downtime Escape: Currently working full time as well as attending graduate school, Ashantee saves every spare moment to spend time with her close-knit Guyanese family. “I come from a family of eight and so in my downtime, I try to spend as much time with them as possible.”
Hope for the future: Dinesh plans to “hopefully graduate from medical school as a licensed general practitioner. But whatever life brings, my hopes for the future is just to be happy.”
Hope for the future: With law school in the future, meanwhile Ashantee plans “to utilize my Master's degree to the best of my ability, making myself available for any and all efforts to protect the environment.”
Why he's a proud Caribbean-American: “My Caribbean background has definitely taught me to appreciate the opportunities I have,” says Dinesh. “As a student I see that academics didn't come by so easily for many kids, and many have obligations that hindered their chance to get the education they wanted.”
Why she's a proud Caribbean-American: Ashantee is most grateful for the opportunities given to her thanks to “the determination, ambition and hardworking qualities of both my parents. Watching them, helped mold me into the person I am today.”
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25 –
Get colorful for Colors of the Caribbean on Father's Day Dads get a special treat this Father's Day weekend, as music lovers gear up the 4th annual Colors of the Caribbean, a free family music festival set for Saturday June 20th. From 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Hollywood ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood. Held on the Saturday of Father's Day Weekend since 2012, Colors of the Caribbean celebrates Caribbean American Heritage Month with music and flavors of the islands. Headliners include the original reggae bad boys Inner Circle, Trinidadian Soca Monarch Rikki Jai, and true diplomat of Caribbean music, Kevin Lyttle. Other artists include young Antigan star Ricardo Dru, as well as local
favorites Camille Kaye, RSPK and the popular DJ Majestic. This festival will also be hosted by local news celebrity, ABC Weekend Anchor, Neki Mohan. In addition to music in the amphitheater, the ArtsPark at Young Circle will be full of Caribbean delights: A Caribbean Travel Expo; YMCA Kids Zone powered by CSC of Broward County, a Caribbean Food Village with all the flavors of the islands on sale, Caribbean arts and craft vendors, and smaller stages featuring folk dance and culture performances including tassa and steel bands.
C1
1 Well Done Kabaka Pyramid 2 Seven Eleven Dexta Daps 3 Way Up, Stay Up Chi Ching / Beenie Man 4 Free Up Zagga / Tarrus Riley 5 Ready Fi Mi Josey Wales
Miss JA Kaci Fennell hosts Carib Style Week Miss Universe Jamaica Kaci Fennell will host this year's Caribbean Style Week in Fort Lauderdale from June 25-28. Winning over the hearts of millions at the 2015 Miss Universe pageant, Kaci created a great buzz for herself across the globe, solidifying the Caribbean region as one full of beauty and brains. The Jamaican beauty will officiate the fashion-filled festivities throughout the week. “I am delighted to be a part of Caribbean Style Week,” says Kaci. “Caribbean Fashion is on the rise, and events like this gives the region's designers a stage to showcase their talent and creative designs.” “Caribbean Style Week provides an excellent
platform for Caribbean Fashion to be displayed in its own space. From Trinidad to the Bahamas, small islands to the large ones, the week will feature fashion from the region's top designers. South Florida's community will delight in Caribbean talent, culture and most of all fashion through this eventful week,” states Asa Sealy, CSW producer. Carib Style Week kicks off on June 25 with a special VIP welcome reception. Confirmed attendees include, Miss Universe
Trinidad & Tobago 2014, Jevon King, super Carnival designer Sandra Hordart, and evening wear favorite Kazz Forbes of St. George Fashion House. The week will also be filled with runway shows featuring the rich and beautiful Caribbean culture. Westfield Mall Broward will play host to many of the runway shows over the weekend, with three external signature events: “Carnival Rocks the Runway,” “Epicurean By Design” and “Bikinis & Brunch” – a chic swimwear show set to close out the program of events for CSW 2015.
6 Miss Wire Waist Duane Stephenson 7 Hurt By Friends I Ocatne 8 Rasta (Sweet Reggae) Jah Cure 9 What If Busy Signal 10 News Carrying Dread Inner Circle / Chronixx 11 Sudden Flight Proteje
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25 –
Florida's Mango Festival celebrates Jamaican varieties From the revered “Julie” to the sweet and spicy crowd favorite “Blackie,” Jamaican mango varieties gets the spotlight at this year's 23rd annual Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens Mango Festival, set for July 11 to July 12. Just in time for mango season, the festival features a variety of mango trees for sale, a fruit market, cooking
demonstrations, lectures about growing mangos, educational activities, artisan vendors, delicious food and the famous mango auction, the largest in the world. Jamaican mangos in all their diverse glory will be featured throughout the day, including all weekend-long mango tastings, perfectly ripened and freshly cut. There will also be cooking
demonstrations featuring Jamaica varieties, such as Cycad Vista's Chef Allen Susser's signature Jamaican shrimp and mango curry. A lecture about all of Jamaica's assortment of mangos will be given by Dr. Richard Campbell, Director of Horticulture at Fairchild Botanical Gardens.
Tavis Smiley joins South Florida Book Fest Popular author and radio host Tavis Smiley joins the line-up for the upcoming South Florida Book Festival, on July 17 and 18, at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC). Smiley, the host of "Tavis Talks" on Blog Talk Radio's Tavis Smiley Network, will launch the celebrations with a 10:30 am reading on June 18. Three Caribbean authors are also on-
board. Edwidge Danticat, Fr. Albert Cutié and Joanne M. Simpson will discuss their books with panel leader Dr. Susan Lycett Davis, an expert in Jamaican and Caribbean culture. Other featured speakers include a trio of entrepreneurs—rocket scientist and media maverick Mary Spio, along with Felecia Hatcher and Sylvester Chisom. Pulitzer Prize winner Nick Chiles and a
Undocumented students are accommodated.” But in its recent letter, the DOJ said it was still receiving complaints from parents that county schools still require documentation, including photo ID matching fixed addresses and original birth certificates for students born out of the country. The DOJ also noted that the information required for registration and related handbooks are poorly translated from English into Spanish, French and Kreyol. Referring to the DOJ's recent letter, the District said that they have initiated proactive measures ensuring compliance, including creating a District-wide registration form and a single website
Georgia attorney Robbin Shipp, both authors of the book “Justice While Black,” will join a panel to talk about how the American justice system treats young African-American men. In a new category this year, Dr. Sonjia will discuss “Sex in South Beach” based on her book of the same name and featuring fun conversations about sex, relationships, and staying healthy between the sheets.
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translated in the district's major languages. “School staff will also receive mandatory training in the registration process and translation of all documents provided to parents,” said Interim Chief Academic Officer Keith Oswald. He reiterated that the School District will continue to fully cooperate with the Department of Justice in its implementation of the agreement “to ensure a high quality education is provided to all children in Palm Beach County.” A check with the districts revised website revealed that registration was available in English, Kreyol, Spanish and French. And though registration criteria require all students to bring documents
proving birth, the site said that parents who were unable to provide these documents could contact the respective school's administration. Families of Jamaican and Haitian students attending county schools expressed no difficulty in registering their children in 2013 and 2014. However, one mother, Inez Anderson, said a neighbor in Lake Worth had problems registering her children, “mainly because of language issues related to the registration process.” “I don't think the schools are deliberately fighting against registering immigrants,” says Anderson. “I think the problem is some immigrant families communicating in English.”
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COMMUNITY ROUND-UP Your cultural and career calendar of events around the Caribbean-American community in South Florida
June 19 Alison Hinds in Concert Miramar Cultural Center, 8 p.m. The undisputed queen of soca Alison Hinds is set to burn up South Florida with a steamy performance. Featuring an opening performance by local comedian Rohan Gunter. June 20 Colors of the Caribbean Hollywood Arts Park, 4 p.m. Inner Circle, Rikki Jai and Kevin Lyttle headline this family-friendly celebration of Caribbean music. Miramar Caribbean-American Heritage Concert Shirley Branca Park, 6 p.m. The City of Miramar celebrates CaribbeanAmerican Heritage Month with a fun-filled day of food trucks, music, dancing and entertainment. Headliners include Marcia Griffiths, Glen Washington, and Willie Panama. June 21 Miss Jamaica Diaspora Pageant Miramar Cultural Center-Artspark, 6 p.m. The lovely young ladies of the Jamaican Diaspora strut their stuff for the crown at the 2015 Miss Jamaica Diaspora Health and Wellness Beauty Pageant. June 24 South Florida Business and Leadership Conference Fort Lauderdale-Broward County Convention Center, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Workshops, networking and business experts with sound advice will all be at hand for this event. SBA South Florida will also present federal contracting resources.
C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
To vote, or not to vote Kingdom, the United States and Canada, representing the Diaspora. This week, Jamaica's Minister of Foreign Affairs AJ Nicholson said the government is giving serious thought to allowing Jamaicans in the Diaspora to vote. This idea has been now included in the draft National Diaspora Policy that heads to Cabinet shortly for deliberation. However, this issue has sharply divided some politicians. The opposition Jamaica Labour Party's (JLP) spokesman on Foreign Affairs, Edmund Bartlett, has suggested the Diaspora could have direct access to the Jamaican Parliament, through an elected seat. “If we added one seat it would be 64. That would be the Diaspora seat. The Diaspora would vote in the same way that they now vote for their regional leaders.” Bartlett added that voting could be done electronically or by sending ballots to missions overseas. “They could vote for whoever they wish, nominate candidates the way they want without having to do with JLP or PNP (People's National Party) – but it would provide a powerful base for the Diaspora to express its involvement in our governance.”
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governance structure of the country.” Opposition leader Andrew Holness supports Bartlett views. Holness, who went on a tour through Diaspora communities in the U.S. and the U.K., believes the Diaspora vote would lead to greater voice for Jamaicans overseas. He said this innovation could be decided by Jamaicans in a “grand referendum.” At a press conference following his overseas trip, Holness promised to urge the government to explore ways to give the Diaspora a constituent vote in Jamaica. He said the JLP would recommend a similar model to that practiced by the French
Nicholson
However Arnaldo Brown, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, responsible for Diaspora affairs, asserts that Bartett's position is not tenable at this time. Concerning absentee ballots, Brown said it's not an immediate issue on the table, but going forward it shouldn't be ruled out. He said, meanwhile there are no barriers point to prevent the Diaspora from participating in the electoral process. “There are members of the Diaspora who are active in the political process in Jamaica. They return to Jamaica and participate so there is really no impediment for those who want to participate in the
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government, in which nationals vote overseas, but their ballots are registered for only one constituency in the country. Also weighing in on the issue is political analyst Richard “Dickie” Crawford, who noted the Diaspora wants to be involved. “They feel as citizens they should elect their government as is done by many other countries like the Diaspora of the Philippines, Israel and the U.S. If Jamaica went this route it would be an advantage for all Jamaicans.”
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25 –
TRACK & FIELD
Bolt could appear at National Trials in Jamaica Usain Bolt is likely to contest this month's National Trials, as he looks to get in as many races as possible ahead of the Beijing World Championships. Following a poor showing on Saturday at the IAAF Diamond League meet in New York, , his coach Glen Mills hinted the sprinter may need as many races as possible to regain his competitive edge. “His training is coming along gradually. He's going to be running a lot more races in order to get him into competitive peak shape,” Mills told NBC Sports. “He hasn't been
doing much in terms of competitive running. Over the next two months, you'll see him doing quite a lot more races with a more aggressive approach in order to get the kind of competitive level we would like.” By virtue of being the defending champion in both the 100 and 200m at the previous World Championships, Bolt was not expected to take part as he is automatically entered for the event. Bolt, who finished in a slow 20.29, had an uncharacteristically bad corner, typically the strongest part of his race. The coach has also put that down to competitive rustiness.
CRICKET
SOCCER
Marlon Samuels supports blind and visually impaired
James Marcelin named NASL Player of the Week
Marlon Samuels, the Jamaica and West Indies middleorder batsman, has launched a foundation for the blind and visually impaired. “This is basically a charity that is in aid of the blind and disabled, and what it is going to be doing is rallying people from the industry – both sports and corporate Jamaica to just give to the charity,” says Samuels. “The funds collected will then be handed over to the various entities that will deal with things related to the blind and disabled.” Samuels has spent some time out of cricket after being hit in the face from a Lasith Malinga delivery during the Australian Big Bash. The knock threatened Samuels' sight permanently and left him partially blind for two weeks. The batsman recovered after surgery for a broken eye socket, but pledged future support for the blind and visually impaired. At the time, Samuels had made a $50,000 donation to the Salvation Army that helped five students with their exams.
The Haitian-born James Marcelin of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers has a happy birthday this week, as one of three Strikers named the NASL Player of the Week. The mid-fielder was praised for his assist on Stefano Pinho's opener, helping to marshal the center of the pitch in the Strikers' second-half comeback victory against the Minnesota United FC in their recent match in at the National Sports Center Stadium in Blaine, Minnesota. The win was the Strikers first since April 25, and moves their Spring Season record to 3-2-5 (W-T-L). The key play helped the Strikers earn a come-from-behind 3-2 victory over Minnesota United FC. Other players named by the NASL were Fabian King and Stefano Pinho. This marked the first NASL Player of the Week selection for Marcelin. The victory comes in the coaching debut for interim coach Iván Guerrero. The third-year Strikers' defender took the helm after Head Coach Marcelo Neveleff and top assistant Ricardo Lopes left the team six days ago.
C5
SPORTS ROUNDUP
Lions advance to face Blazers in finals Defending Champions Lauderhill Lions registered a convincing three nil victory over Plantation FC recently at the Caribbean-American Soccer Association (CASA) Super League tournament in Lauderhill. The Lions will now go against three-time champions Fort Lauderdale Blazers in the finals, set for Saturday June 20, at the Lauderhill Sports Complex. Lauderhill Lions will try to become the league's first back-to-back champion.
Reggae Boyz lose to Paraguay Jamaica's Reggae Boyz went down 01 to Paraguay in their Group B encounter at the Copa America in Chile on Tuesday. A goalkeeping blunder by Jamaica goalkeeper Duwayne Kerr proved decisive, as Paraguay picked up three Copa America points with a 1-0 win in Antofagasta. The Boyz will face Argentina in their final group game on Saturday.
Reggae Girlz train in Florida Jamaica's Reggae Girlz have arrived in the Sunshine State for a special training session. Members of Jamaica's senior female football squad arrived yesterday in Winter Park, near Orlando. They will stay for a five-day training camp in preparation for the up-coming Caribbean Football Union Olympic qualifiers. Three teams will go forward from the Caribbean for the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament, scheduled for January 2016.
C6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, JUN 18 – JUN 24, 2015 | VOL. 12 NO. 25
A D V E R T I S E M E N T