iNews Briefs & Community Events
Cayman Islands utility company hurricane drill Wed (15)
Cayman Utiltity Company (CUC) will be performing its annual Hurricane Drill commencing at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, June 15, 2016.
They will be simulating the approach of a hurricane and will be shuttering the Administration Building, readying the Power Plant grounds, moving vehicles to the South Sound Substation and flying the hurricane flags. The displaying of hurricane flags outside the Administration Building will continue until Thursday, June 16 at about 2:00 p.m. when the simulated ‘all clear’ is given.
This is only a drill.
A ‘smart’ exosuit learns its user’s movements
By Andrew Dalton From engadget
And makes great strides for battery life in the process.
As military and heavy-lifting applications for robotic exoskeletons get closer to reality, the latest trend in wearable machinery is helping the elderly and those with limited mobility get back on their feet. Like their colleagues/competitors at Harvard and ReWalk Robotics, the team behind the Superflex have developed a soft robotic exosuit that could do everything from heavy lifting on the battlefield to replacing grandma’s walker.
While it’s not the first powered exosuit in development, the Superflex has an extra “smart” trick up it’s robotic sleeve. The onboard sensors actually learn the way each individual wearer moves and then uses that information to turn on the power at the precise moment when the wearer needs it. The result is a longer battery life and, eventually a less bulky set of body-mounted machinery. The main idea, SRI Ventures president Manish Kothari told the MIT Technology Review, is to empower users and “remove all of those areas that cause psychological-type encumbrances and, ultimately, redignify the individual.” Which is a polite way of saying the company wants to make you feel like a superhuman once you put it on.
The Superflex team, which was spun off from the SRI International nonprofit, doesn’t yet have a concrete date for a marketable version of the suit, but they are currently seeking partners to commercialize the prototype.
For more: https://www.engadget.com/2016/06/03/smart-exosuit-superflex/
Venezuela state governor blames Aruba and Curacao for food shortages
From Caribbean News Now
WILLEMSTAD, Curacao — Jose Gregorio Vielma Mora, a former general who is now the governor of the Venezuelan state of Tachira, has accused Curacao and Aruba of contributing to the shortage of food in Venezuela.
According to the retired general, tons of illegal products like vegetables, fruits and fish. “…are being exported to some islands in the Caribbean, particularly Curacao and Aruba.”
Vielma Mora indicated during an interview that he has instructed the Venezuelan consuls on these islands to explain to the authorities that these contraband exports are harmful for Venezuela.
The governor also informed that there are legal exports taking place from his state Tachira to the Curacaoan and Aruban markets. He spoke of products like cheese, coffee, potatoes, carrots and fruits that are being exported by 39 companies that have permits. He did not give more details about the companies with permits to export.
These declarations from the governor were met with heavy criticism from the opposition parties in the Venezuelan parliament. These parties say that this is another lie from the government party to cover the truth about what is happening in Venezuela.
For more on this story go to:
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Venezuela-state-governor-blames-Aruba-and-Curacao-for-food-shortages-30720.html
Caribbean launches marijuana commission
From Caribbean National Weekly
IMAGE: Caribbean launches marijuana commission
The Regional Commission on Marijuana will stage the first of its national consultations on the use of the drug for medicinal purposes at a meeting in St. Vincent on Wednesday.
Last year, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders agreed on the composition of a Commission to examine marijuana legalization throughout the 15-member regional bloc.
Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie, said then that the leaders had expected the Commission to “soon begin its work to look into the economic, health and legal issues surrounding the use of marijuana and to consult with stakeholders to get a view on the issue.”
The marijuana legalization debate has been on the Caribbean’s agenda for more than a year.
In February last year, Jamaica’s Parliament agreed to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana and establish a licensing agency to regulate a lawful medicinal marijuana industry. The legislation allows for residents can carry up to two ounces of marijuana without it being on their criminal record, and grow up to five plants where permitted.
The consultation is being held in collaboration with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines government.
For more: http://www.caribbeannationalweekly.com/news/caribbean-news/caribbean-launches-marijuana-commission/
Caribbean Bar Association announces Scholarship winners
From Caribbean National Weekly
The Caribbean Bar Association (CBA) has announced this year’s winner of their annual Scholarship Program, celebrating promising legal students of Caribbean descent in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
The 2016 CBA Scholarship Program recipients are Herboo Marceau of St. Thomas University School of Law and Chanelle Artiles of Florida International University College of Law. Both will receive a paid judicial or public interest legal summer internship, as well as a $3000 – supplied by donations and fundraising efforts by CBA members and supporters. Both will complete their internships at Legal Services of Greater Miami Inc., the largest provider of broad-based civil legal services for the poor in Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, and is recognized in the state and in the nation as a model legal services program.
Fluent in English, French and Creole, Marceau received his Bachelor’s Degree in Private Law from University of Limoges in Limoges, France, as well as earning a Master’s in business law, in addition to international and European criminal law. Marceau is expected to graduate in Spring 2017. Fluent in English and Spanish, Artiles earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and International Business from Florida International University’s College of Business. She was also appointed to the executive board of the National Black Law Student Association (NBLSA) for the 2015-2016 term, where she served as Career Specialist.
Founded in 1994 and based in Miami, Florida, the Caribbean Bar Association’s mission seeks to inform, educate and empower all members of the Caribbean-American community in South and Central Florida.
For more: http://www.caribbeannationalweekly.com/news/caribbean-bar-association-announces-scholarship-winners/
Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association selects new president
From South Florida Caribbean News
MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett was first to congratulate General Manager of Round Hill Hotel, Omar Robinson on his elevation to the top post of President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) at the association’s 55th annual general meeting on Saturday, June 10 at Sandals Ocho Rios in St Ann.
Omar Robinson, who served as 1st vice president over the past two years, succeeds Mrs. Nicola Madden-Greig who Minister Bartlett also congratulated for a “sterling performance” during her tenure.
Citing her achievement in growing the association, Minister Bartlett said he was confident her successor would continue the tradition of growth and he was satisfied “that the team that I will be working with from today onwards will be just as powerful and strong and will keep the tradition of growth and relationship going.” He stressed that the ministry wanted to continue its collaborative partnership with the JHTA moving forward.
For more: http://sflcn.com/jamaica-hotel-tourist-association-selects-new-president/
The Japan-Caribbean Climate Change Partnership Project Launches
By Gisela Scott From nbc svg
A media event to launch the local arm of the Japan-Caribbean Climate Change Partnership Project takes placed here this Wednesday June 15th from 9 am at Murray’s Heights Hotel.
The main address will come from Minister of Economic Planning, Sustainable Development, Industry, Information and Labour, Camillo Gonsalves.
The main aim of the initiative is to minimized barriers that will affect the implementation of climate-resilient technologies.
The project is head by the United Nations Development Programme Sub-regional Office for Barbados and the OECS.
The local launch follows the regional project launch in Barbados earlier this year, and it brings together policy makers, experts and representatives of affected communities to encourage policy innovation for climate.
For more: https://www.nbcsvg.com/2016/06/13/the-japan-caribbean-climate-change-partnership-project-launches/
Cayman Islands Film Screening shares tricks of the trade
The Cayman National Cultural Foundation (CNCF) will screen a film for filmmakers, through its latest installation of the ‘Lights, Camera, Action’ series.
“Cinematographer Style”, a film by John Fauer, discusses the art of how and why films look the way they do. It will share advice and technical insight into the craft of filmmaking. This screening keeps in line with CNCF’s special focus on film this month. In addition to this event CNCF will participate in CayFilm, a festival it is a founding member of, and is mentoring young filmmakers through its Young Image Makers programme.
The film will be screened on Thursday 16 June at 6:30 p.m. at the Harquail Studio Theatre. The event is part of the 30th anniversary celebrations for the Harquail Theatre. Admission is free and there will be a cash bar and refreshments on sale.
For more information call 949-5477 or email [email protected]. Visit www.artscayman.org/calendar for CNCF’s full events calendar.
Cayman Islands National Gallery
A Last Look!
The Native Sons
If you haven’t seen the temporary exhibition The Native Sons – Twenty Years On, this is your last chance to view stunning works by seven talented individuals. The exhibition ends Saturday, 25 June 2016. Admission is free for everyone and all ages are welcome! We even have fun activities for kids, just ask at reception.
A Creative Lunch Break
A delicious and informative lunch and lecture will take place next week Wednesday, 15 June at the National Gallery. Learn all about the Native Sons with NGCI Assistant Curator Kerri-Anne Chisholm and enjoy some local flavours, like jerk chicken and fresh mango!
View the menu.
Happy Hour with the Artists
The Butterfield Young Patrons’ Circle is set to host a “Happy Hour” with the Native Sons, 6:00 PM next week Friday, 17 June 2016 at NGCI. Mingle with the artists and enjoy curated led tours throughout the evening. Admission is free and everyone is welcome to attend.
Learn more.
Make Your Mark!
Want more? More art, more access, more perks? Become a member of the National Gallery. Already a member? Refer a friend and support free admission and free public programme for everyone!
Learn more.
A Closer Look with the Curator
“This painting titled Home to Parking Lot by Native Sons artist Solomon Solomon expertly blends past and present using cubist influences to illustrate a personal story of loss resulting from urban development. Depicted is the estate Solomon’s family occupied for five decades, and the site currently as a parking lot.” – Kerri-Anne Chisholm, NGCI Assistant Curator
Learn more about the artist.
Cayman Islands Chatterbox is collaborating with Cayman Theraplay to present our fun and therapeutic Superheroes Camp!
Unleash your superhero and have fun with movement, creativity, language and friendship skills!
To book, contact: [email protected]
COMMUNITY EVENTS (Date Order)
Cayman Drama Society: The funniest show on earth!
Have you got your tickets yet for the funniest play of the year? Join us for The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) Click here for tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-complete-works-of-william-shakespeare-abridged-ticket-sales-in-us-tickets-24974384055?aff=ehomecard
Cayman Islands: Register for the CNCF Summer Arts Camp
Learn new skills while having fun this summer. Registration is open for the Cayman National Cultural Foundation’s Summer Arts Camp.
Set to take place 11 – 19 August, the camp is open to students ages 7 – 16. Children 6 years old are accepted if an older sibling is enrolled in the camp.
Students will engage in activities that focus on the visual, traditional and performing arts, with classes in drama, storytelling, dance, and more. Students will also get to take part in field trips that highlight Cayman’s cultural and maritime heritage.
Registration forms can be found online at www.artscayman.org/creative-kids and are due by Thursday 30 June. Membership cost is $150 per child for seven days. Snacks and lunch are included. Payment is due Friday 15 July.
For more information about the camp you can email [email protected] or call 949-5477.
WED JUNE 15
NWDA In West Bay
The National Workforce Development Agency will be at the West Bay Library on Wednesday (15 Jun) from 10 – 1pm.
Floetry
Floetry is Wednesday (15 Jun) at Books and Books at 630pm.
THU JUNE 16
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister to Discuss International Terrorism and Caribbean Preparedness
Employment: Pensions
The Chamber of Commerce presents a course on Employment: Pensions on Thursday (16 Jun) from 9 — 11am. Register online at caymanchamber.ky.
FRI JUNE 17
King and Queen of Literacy
Red Bay Primary Presents King and Queen of Literacy at Mary Miller Hall on Friday (17 Jun) at 6pm.
SAT JUNE 18
St. Ignatius International Food Festival
The St. Ignatius International Food Festival is Saturday (18 Jun) from 5 — 8pm. Tickets are $12. Email [email protected] for tickets or further information.
Father’s Day 5K Walk Run
The Father’s Day 5K Walk Run is Saturday (18 Jun) at Smith Cover at 6am for Walkers and 630am for runners. Register online at caymanactive.com.
Culture at the Cinema: As You Like It
Culture at the Cinema presents Shakespeare’s As You Like It on Saturday (18 Jun) at 7pm at Regal Cinemas.
SAT JUNE 25
Cayman Islands: Mud Run organisers call for volunteers
The Pirates Week Festival is seeking 100 volunteers to assist with its upcoming Pirates Trail Mud Run on Saturday 25th June, 2016.
The 5k run and obstacle course is a fundraiser for the Islands’ national festival, Pirates Week (10-20 November, 2016).
Event organisers are looking for both service groups and individuals to pitch in as follows:
The week before the race,
- course set-up
- organising participant packets
On race day,
- registration
- EMS station (must be First Aid/CPR trained)
- water stations
- obstacle management
- lifeguard stations
- photographers
Along with giving back to the community, volunteers will receive a free t-shirt, food and beverages as well as a chance to win a free airline ticket on Cayman Airways (terms and conditions apply. A minimum of 3 volunteer hours is required).
Interested persons, aged 18 and older, will be provided with a short training session on Tuesday 21st June at 5:30pm at the Pirates Week Office.
For more information or to receive a volunteer application from, contact the Pirates Week Office via email at [email protected] or 949-5859/949-5078.
The Pirates Trail Mud Run is set for Saturday 25th June (see flyer attached) at the end of Sparky Drive, Industrial Park at 7:00am. There will be a children’s course (five and up) available.
Register online at www.caymanactive.com before Friday 17th June. Late registration begins on 18th – 22nd June at a higher cost, so register early. Registration details are as follows: Children 5 – 12: $15, Individuals: $40, Teams of four: $120 (Late registration: $50/Individuals | $160/Teams).
The first 200 adults to register get a collectible Pirates Trail Mud Run t-shirt.
NEW to Pirates Trail Mud Run!
2016 registrants will also have the opportunity to win an additional $1,000 in our TUG-O-WAR event.
Eight people can take home the cash prize for an additional fee of only $10 per person/$80 per team!
June Events at Camana Bay
We want to help you celebrate Dad this Father’s Day. From a family portrait session with Picture This Studios in beautiful Gardenia Court to a cooking class for dads and kids to whip up tasty treats at Bon Vivant, there are ample opportunities for bonding experiences this Father’s Day at Camana Bay.
With summer approaching, we have some exciting events to welcome this school’s-out season, including the return of our popular Moonlight & Movies series and a cooking class featuring the king of the grill, the Big Green Egg. Foodies can also enjoy an unforgettable night with a feast under the stars at Ortanique’s pig roast.
Here is a quick look at our special events:
Budding Chef Summer Tween Classes
Every Tuesday, 31 May through 28 June
3:45-4:45pm
Isy B. Fashion Show
Moonlight & Movies: Summer Series
Every Tuesday, June through August
7pm
Indian Infusion Cooking Class
Tuesday 14 June
6-8pm
Easy Entertaining Cooking Class
Wednesday 15 June
6-8pm
Floetry
Wednesday 15 June
6:30-7:30pm
Books & Books
Father’s Day Duo Cooking Class
Saturday 18 June
12-1pm
Culture at the Cinema: Shakespeare’s As You Like It
Saturday 18 June
7pm
Regal Cinemas
Big Green Egg and Bourbon Cooking Class
Tuesday 21 June
6-8pm
Cayman 27’s Island Living Show
Friday 24 June and Saturday 25 June
5-8pm and 10am-4pm
The Arts & Recreation Centre
Island-Style Cooking Class
Tuesday 28 June
6-8pm
Ortanique’s Final Pig Roast
Tuesday 28 June
6-9pm
The Island
Cuisine of the Sun Dinner
Thursday 30 June
5:30-10pm
Ortanique
