WASHINGTON, (CMC ) — The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency says it has issued a new customs declaration form “in print and online” that expands the definition of family members for arriving Caribbean and other travellers. CBP said the definition expands to “members of a family residing in the same household who are related by blood, marriage, domestic relationship, or adoption.” The agency said it has accepted this family definition since the final rule became effective on January 17. The new form – CBP Form 6059B – provides the expanded definition in the first paragraph. CBP said the recent regulation change allows more returning US citizens, residents and international visitors to file a joint customs declaration for items acquired abroad. “This produces less paperwork for people travelling together as a family and streamlines … Read entire article »

Residents participate in yesterday’s march for peace in West Kingston. The theme of the march was ‘Taking Back Our Communities’. – Rudolph Brown/Photographer– Residents of several communities in West Kingston peeped through windows while others lined the streets dancing during a march through the capital’s crime hotspots yesterday. The walk, which was organised by the West Kingston Planning Committee (WKPC) in collaboration with other stakeholders was meant to be a symbol of solidarity in reclaiming these communities from the grip of gangs, crime and violence. Areas that were visited included Darling Street, Wellington Street, Denham Town and Tivoli Gardens. Alaphia Chambers, a resident of Tivoli Gardens, said she was hoping that the friction between the communities of Denham Town and Tivoli Gardens would come to an end. CONCERNED ABOUT THE CHILDREN “The people want hope, … Read entire article »

Having recently released his album “No Prejudice” to rave reviews, Natural Black has been busy on his promotional trail with interviews, sharing his music with fans worldwide, and slated performances such as his upcoming performance in Grenada at the 2014 Caricom Festival! The multifaceted artist was recently featured and gave an interview to Behind The Scenes Mag. Natural Black called in from Jamaica to speak to Behind The Scenes Magazine about his new album “No Prejudice.” The album has a familiar sound, he brings a straight roots vibe and wants the community to know that no matter who you are, you deserve love and respect. “No Prejudice”delivers several uplifting and empowering tracks, just what we expect from the voice and pen behind hits “Far From Reality” and “Jah Knows”. He has a message and this album is a testament … Read entire article »

The US Embassy in Kingston has issued a travel warning to its citizens travelling to Jamaica because of the severe drought conditions in the country. The embassy says travellers are to be careful and alert of their surroundings, especially when driving in rural areas and to monitor local media reports and heed warnings from local authorities. According to a statement from the embassy, Jamaica is currently facing severe drought conditions, which have dried out much of the underlying vegetation throughout the country. It says because of these dry conditions, fires can start unexpectedly and change direction quickly. … Read entire article »