Caribbean National Weekly July 21, 2022

THE MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED CARIBBEAN AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN FLORIDA

CNWEEKLYNEWS.COM

THURSDAY JULY 21, 2022

123 JAMAICA COMPLETES THE TRIFECTA IN THE WOMEN’S 100M FINAL AT THE 2022 WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS Fraser Pryce Cements Status as Greatest Female Sprinter Story on C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 A resident of Miramar models her Bandana ou it during Jamaica's Diamond Jubilee celebra on in Miramar on July 15, 2022.

Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister, Olivia Grange (third le ) and 'Team Jamaica' supporters, share a moment with Shelly- Ann Fraser-Pryce (fourth le ), following her victory in the women's 100-metre event at the 2022 World Athle cs Championships in Eugene, Oregon on July 17.

Photo by: Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport

Residents in the city of Miramar display their Rastafarian a re during Jamaica's Diamond Jubilee celebra on in Miramar on July 15, with specially invited guest, Opposi on Leader, Mark Golding.

Leader of the Opposi on People's Na onal Party Mark Golding and Opposi on Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Lisa Hanna visit the Capitol during their US tour where they met with members of the Jamaican diaspora this week.

Mayor of Tamarac Michelle Gomez poses with two of Broward's finest from the Broward Sheriff's office at a recent event in Tamarac.

Miami Gardens Councilwoman Linda Julien (le ), State Senator Shervin Jones and Miami Dade Supervisor of Elec ons Chris na White host a townhall for residents in the city regarding elec on restric ons on July 19, 2022.

Judge George Odem and Judge Catalina Avalos at the fi h annual “Protect the Children” Gala held at Miramar Cultural Center last week.

Lauderhill Commissioner Denise Grant hosts Tea Time with Seniors Educa onal & Wellness Program at the Sadkin Center in Lauderhill.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 –

A3

NEWSMAKER

Dr. Elaine Grant-Bryan Jamaica's Honorary Consul Gets US Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award She has also received the President's Volunteer Service Gold Award, a civil award established by former President George W. Bush to honor volunteers who give thousands of hours per year, helping others.

The awards were presented at a ceremony held on May 20 in Orlando, Florida.

Dr. Grant-Bryan is the first Caribbean-born person in Georgia to receive the awards.

In an interview with JIS News, the Honorary Consul says she is grateful to be honored for her 4,000 hours of service.

“I am so happy the US Government values my many years of dedicated service. They looked at my records, checked everything out and believed that I deserved the two highest honors. So, it let me know somebody noticed and I feel totally, 100 percent satisfied,” she says.

In a letter that accompanied the award, President Joe Biden thanked Dr. Grant-Bryan for her service.

“By sharing your time and passion, you are helping to discover and deliver solutions to the challenges we face – solutions that we need now more than ever. We are living in a moment that calls for hope and light and love; hope for our futures, light to see our way forward and love for one another,” the letter states.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Dr. GrantBryan attended Excelsior High and Kingston Technical High, before pursing tertiary studies at Northwestern University, University of West Georgia, and Leadership Sandy Springs in 1978.

A real estate broker and the owner of Elaine Bryan Reality, Dr. Grant-Bryan was appointed honorary consul on October 1, 2018, representing her native country in Atlanta on a voluntary basis.

She works with various local entities to assist nationals in Atlanta and promotes the island overseas. Among the entities is the Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency

ELECT

Jamaica's Honorary Consul in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Elaine Grant-Bryan, has received the United States (US) Presidential 'Lifetime Achievement Award'. The award, signed by President Joe Biden, is in recognition of her thousands of hours of service to the Jamaican diaspora, the Caribbean and the US.

in the processing of passports.

Dr. Grant-Bryan says her “joy is in service and serving others.”

“Sometimes, I over schedule myself because I love to do it so much, but I am getting better at managing my time since I cannot serve the whole world,” she says.

Over the years, Dr. Grant-Bryan has received several awards. In 2005, she received the Judge Glenda Hatchett Award for outstanding service in the field of education and in 2006, she earned the Atlanta Mayor Phoenix Award for outstanding achievements in Education and Service to the people of

Atlanta.

Dr. Grant-Bryan says the funds obtained from the two awards helped her to set up the Elaine Bryan Foundation, in 2010.

The honorary consul lauds the support she receives from individuals and entities in carrying out her consul duties. She says everyone has a duty to give a bit of their time in service to their community.

“Everybody has significant talents and if we share those talents for the social good, that is the only way countries will continue to prosper,” she points out.

“That should be a priority. In fact, when we are trying to evaluate persons, I believe that quantifying what they have done for Jamaica, without pay, is very important. If you really love Jamaica that much, you will be able to work for Jamaica even in silence, even when no one is seeing us,” she contends.

State Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Leslie Campbell, commended Dr. Grant-Bryan, noting that she is “more than deserving of the awards.”

“As an honorary consul, she does 110 percent to facilitate our people who get into trouble, who are in need, and she is just always there doing things that one would not associate with a consul officer,” he pointed out.

He continued, “I have seen her help people who are having challenges getting their mortgages together or helping them with medical issues and linking them with the relevant people [to assist].”

The consul general is married to Gregory Bryan, who is a computer expert, and they work on local and international projects for the Elaine Bryan Foundation.

DALE

FOR us CONGRESS

Early Voting Aug. 10 – Aug. 20

Vote on August 23, 2022

Paid for by Holness For Congress

HolnessForCongress.com

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN Man wanted in the US found guilty of murdering real estate agent in St. Vincent A High Court judge in St. Vincent on Monday set September 21 as the date for the sentencing of a 35-year-old man Veron Primus, who was found guilty of murdering a 33-year-old real estate agent in November 2015.

A 12-member jury found Veron Primus, guilty of murdering Sharleen Greaves during the trial in which one of Primus’ adult female relatives, with whom he had a consensual sexual relationship, testified that he told her he murdered the real estate agent.

The prosecution led by Karim Nelson told Justice Brian Cottle, who presided over the more than the month-long trial that the prosecution would make every effort to be ready for mitigation ahead of sentencing.

Defense Counsel, Michael Wyllie, said he would be traveling on Saturday for medical attention and would not be able to mitigate before his return. He said this would depend on his diagnosis.

“Hopefully, I won’t need another surgery,” he added.

Primus is also wanted in the United States, having been indicted in June 2016 in connection with the 2006 murder of 16year-old Chanel Petro-Nixon.

In October 2019, Primus was jailed in St. Vincent for 16 months for escaping lawful custody and in December 2020, was sentenced to 24 months for escaping lawful custody, a second time, and three months for damaging a sheet of plywood at Her

Trinidad Police officers charged with murder Eight police officers were remanded on Tuesday after they appeared before a Port of Spain magistrate charged with the 2020 murders of three men in Second Caledonia, Morvant on the outskirts of the capital.

The matter was adjourned to August 16.

The officers – Sgt Joseph Solomon, 44, with 22 years’ service, Corporal Charles Budri, 55, with 34 years’ service, and Constables Sherwin Baptiste, Mark Lewis, Vaughn St Cyr, Jameel Mohammed, Colin Furlonge and Shawn Lord appeared virtually before magistrate Brian Dabideen.

The ages of the others ranged from 39 to 41 years with nine to 19 years service.

They were charged on Monday night with the murders of Joel Jacob, 38, Noel Diamond, 46, and Israel Moses Clinton, 27, on June 27, 2020.

The seven accused stood side by side, dressed casually, answered when the magistrate called their names and raised their hands. The officers who were last assigned to the Inter-Agency Task Force were part of a team of 18 officers who intercepted a vehicle and allegedly murdered the three men who were reportedly unarmed and had surrendered.

The incident was captured on CCTV and shared on social media shortly after the

incident. It also sparked widespread protests for three days as people demanded justice and a thorough investigation.

The Police Complaints Authority had completed its investigation in the matter and referred its findings to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Prominent attorney Israel Khan, SC is leading a battery of lawyers representing five of the police officers, while the others are being represented by attorneys Sheldon Maicoo, John Heath and Wade Ceballo.

St. Kitts PM Dr. Timothy Harris announces election date Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris Sunday night announced August 5 as the date for the long-awaited general election, telling supporters of his People's Labour Party (PLP) that he Is “confident” of being returned to office “to continue the wonderful job we have been doing”.

Harris was forced to call the election after the members of his coalition Team Unity government filed a motion of no confidence against him, two years after the three-party team was re-elected in the June 8, 20202 general election by winning nine of the 11 seats in the 15member Parliament. The other four legislators are nominated by the governor general following the polls.

Harris dissolved Parliament on May 10 paving the way for the general election after the People's Action Movement (PAM) and the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), the other two members in the coalition had filed the motion of no confidence against him. His move virtually scuttled that move and Harris also fired the dissidents and told the country he would announce a date for the polls within the stipulated 90-day period.

“All democracy loves, I now declare that I have advised His Excellency, the Governor General earlier this week that he should prepare for us to go to general elections in St. Kitts-Nevis on Friday, the fifth of August, 2022,” Harris told PLP supporters at a rally on Sunday night.

continues on A5 – Murder charge

continues on A5 – St. Kitts elections

Harris

FREIGHT CONSOLIDATORS 2970 NW 27th Street, Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33311 Mon, Tue, Wed: 9am – 6pm Thur: 9am – 7pm Fri: 9am – 4:30pm Sat & Sun: 10am – 5pm

Hassle-Free Shipping to Jamaica KINGSTON

1 STOP

TIVOLI Warehouse 76 Marcus Garvey Drive

MONTEGO BAY

1 STOP

IFC Warehouse Little Wharf Seaboard Marine

Or take advantage of our SAFE and SECURE

DOOR to DOOR Delivery Service Enjoy delivery from the comfort of your home.

Hassle free clearance Fastest transit times

Open Everyday!

Pickup Every Tuesday 9am – 5pm

Mon -Thur: 9am – 5pm Fri: 9am – 3pm

We load containers daily!

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 –

A5

CARIBBEAN

UWI declares scholarship in honor of Violet E. Edwards Edwards is the 5th oldest person to graduate college in the US The University of the West Indies Mona Campus has officially launched the Violet E. Edwards academic scholarship in honor of a Jamaican American who became the fifth oldest person to graduate from college in the United States at 96 years and 263 days old.

Mercy College, New York conferred Edwards with her degree on Saturday, June 25, 2022 The scholarship valued at $400,000 annually will be awarded to a Jamaican student for a maximum tenure of three years. The award is available to students registered in the undergraduate degree program and are Jamaicans; any age; and registered in the Faculty of Humanities & Education, Faculty of Science & Technology, or Faculty of Social Sciences. The University of the West Indies noted that “preference

will be given to an adult returning student, who may have previously dropped out of a degree program due to hardship.”

The award will be based on verifiable financial need and high academic performance where students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, although a lower GPA of 2.5 may be acceptable based upon extenuating circumstances.

Applicants for the Violet E. Edwards will be short-listed on the basis of performance in the Advanced Level GCE/CAPE Examination or university examination.

Candidates will also be interviewed by a panel comprising personnel from the university and the donors.

Violet Edwards who inspired the scholarship was born October 5, 1925, in Edwards

continues on B4 – Violet Edwards

Mask mandate ends in Trinidad & Tobago The mask mandate that was implemented in Trinidad and Tobago two years ago, officially ended on Sunday.

This means the public can do away with masks while in public spaces, but the mandate still applies to visits to health clinics, dental clinics and hospitals.

Last week, during a press conference, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh said individual businesses still have the final say on mask-wearing rules in their establishments.

He also encouraged the use of masks while in settings where the risk of COVID19 spread is high, saying it is a “common sense approach”.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Roshan

Parasram also stressed that wearing a mask would be based on an individual's level of risk in a particular setting.

In response to the lifting of the mask mandate, the president of the Supermarkets Association of Trinidad and Tobago (SATT), Rajiv Diptee said the measure is optional for customers entering its stores.

In a recent statement, SATT welcomed the lifting of the mask mandate, but urged customers to be mindful of the risk of COVID-19 and to wear masks during high traffic periods.

“We urge customers to carry a strong sense of personal responsibility for their own protection as they go about their shopping needs. We would like to remind

you to measure your distance, ensure pocket sanitizer is in your possession and be mindful of your neighbor in the aisle and at the register,” the advisory noted.

Meanwhile the Bankers Association of T&T in a statement on Saturday said it will be up to each bank to decide if they will allow customers into banks with or without masks.

The Association added that members of the public can visit their bank's website and social media platforms for further details.

It further cautioned customers to continue practicing other safety measures such as hand sanitization.

The mandate to wear masks in public was implemented on August 31, 2020.

St. Kis Elections from A4

“We are ready, we are ready to govern again, we are ready to deliver….my team is ready. We have set Tuesday, the 26th of July as Nomination Day,” Harris told cheering supporters.

The PLP said it will contest the eight seats on St. Kitts, while the PAM and the CCM have announced plans for a coalition of their own and will contest all 11 seats in the twin island federation.

The main opposition St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP), which last Friday staged a demonstration in the capital calling for the date of the general election to be announced, has also announced a full slate of eight candidates for the seats in St. Kitts.

Murder Charge

from A4

Majesty’s Prison, in Kingstown, from which he escaped.

Primus has also served prison sentences in New York for first-degree criminal contempt and thirddegree burglary.

The court heard that the body of the real estate agent was found by her secretary, Ronella Bailey, in her office on November 13, 2015, less than 12 hours after a female, speaking in a hushed voice, telephoned the police general line, saying someone had broken into her office at the building. The woman then began to scream, and the telephone line went dead as if someone had ended the call.

Detectives responded but found no sign of forced entry.

Primus, who was deported from the United States in June 2015, would not come to the attention of police until April 2016 when detectives, investigating a report by Mewanah Hadaway, then 24 years old, that he had kept her against her will in his home from January 1 to April 15, 2016.

Charges were brought against Primus in connection with that allegation, but they were withdrawn as Hadaway was not available to testify in a preliminary inquiry in 2017.

A total of 20 witnesses, 17 of whom were called by the Crown, testified in the trial, which began on June 14.

Donate

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

EDITORIAL

P.O.Box 551712 Davie, FL 33355 advertising@cnweeklynews.com www.cnweeklynews.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EMERITUS Dr. Garth A. Rose grose@cnweeklynews.com

MANAGING EDITOR Patrick Green pgreen@cnweeklynews.com

GRAPHIC EDITOR Andrew Karim akarim@cnweeklynews.com

EDITORIAL editor@cnweeklynews.com

SPORTS EDITOR Don Anthony sports@cnweeklynews.com

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

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

Celebrating

&

CARICOM Heads: Still in slow motion “ Reviewing the Communiqué of the 43rd CARICOM Heads of Government Conference, held in Suriname, July 3-5, did not leave me feeling inspired. As CARICOM Chairman, President Chan Santokhi of Suriname, said in his statement at the opening ceremony, the region is still too far from achieving its stated goals.

My first surprise was that not more countries had signed the Protocol to Amend the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas establishing the Caribbean Community including the CARICOM Single Market and Economy to Allow for Enhanced Cooperation among member states and to Address Related Issues (Enhanced Cooperation Protocol).

At this meeting, it was ratified by Barbados and signed by St. Lucia. At the Inter-Sessional Heads Meeting in Belize in March, four countries, Barbados, Belize, Dominica and Grenada, had signed. Considering that Heads at the 42nd Session in Antigua and Barbuda, had agreed to the St. John’s Declaration on Rededication to CSME Implementation, I would have expected more countries to have signed.

In the discussions on the CSME, it was evident that little progress had been made on the free movement of workers, specifically in the new categories which had been agreed. For these categories, household domestics, agricultural workers and private security officers, Heads were just now agreeing on definitions and qualifications. Heads of Government were again expressing disappointment at the slow pace of implementation of CSME and committing to take immediate steps to make progress.

On advancing the CARICOM Agri-Food Systems agenda, there seems to be more progress with a majority of Member States developing and submitting national targets to meet the 25 percent reduction in regional food export bill by 2025.

The Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) is to conclude, by the end of July, various initiatives and programs, aimed at the removal of non-tariff barriers to intra-regional

trade. The CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) is to accelerate implementation of various agricultural investment projects. It seems that 19 potential investment opportunities for displacing extra-regional agri-food imports have been identified.

Heads endorsed the Action Plan and Outcome Statement of the CARICOM AgriInvestment Forum and Expo held in Guyana from 19-21 May 2022. They also welcomed the Draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for the establishment of a Regional Youth in Agriculture Advisory Mechanism ensuring youth participation and inclusion is accounted for in all efforts towards achieving the 25 percent/2025 goal.

Another Agri-Investment Forum is to be held in Trinidad and Tobago from 19-21 August 2022.

There is to be continuing discussions on an enhanced transportation system, which is a critically important matter in the region for movement of people and goods. Working Groups have been established to provide project oversight, which include establishing a traditional ferry and fast ferry service for passengers and cargo for the region. Studies for ferry services, it seems, have been ongoing for a while. Air transport needs urgent attention.

On energy security, more studies and proposals were on the table as Heads considered and approved a paper on Economic Development and Energy Transition and Climate Change as the region’s overarching strategy in advancing energy security.

They will pursue energy diversification into LNG and fertiliser for agriculture, and will develop the renewable energy sector through building infrastructure for regional power generation. They will also be engaging with the USA to enable resumption of their bilateral relationship with Venezuela through Petrocaribe.

The region will also begin to focus on developing an industrial policy strategy. Suriname is now the Head responsible for industrial policy, which is part of the Revised Treaty (Policies for

The reality is, that we have everything to support each other in the economy, single market, movement of goods and persons, and connectivity. But the processes to facilitate this are going very slowly. Despite progress in some areas of regional cooperation, we are still far from achieving the stated goals.”

– President Chan Santokhi, Suriname, Chair of CARICOM

Sectoral Development) requiring implementation.

Chairman Santohki told the conference that he intended to advance the contours of a Caribbean Industrial Policy during his chairmanship.

Among other agenda items, the Heads also considered climate change, security and community governance, which aims to facilitate more effective decision-making and implementation of the Community agenda.

After going through the communiqué, while there are positives, I was still left wondering when we will actually see concrete deliverables, moving from studies, papers, working groups, and proposals, to actual completed actions.

The commemoration of the 50th anniversary of CARICOM will start at the 34th Inter-Sessional Meeting of Heads scheduled for the Bahamas in February 2023. Will we see even one or two deliverables in 2023, demonstrating a commitment to implementation and moving CARICOM beyond a talk shop?

The Chairman, during his address, made some interesting proposals and called for action now. How will our leaders respond in the next six months? In this time of crises, our leaders need to demonstrate their commitment to regional integration. * Elizabeth Morgan, who writes for CMC, is a specialist in international trade policy and international politics.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 –

A7

TALKUP

Bespoke Cake Desserts Luxury Wedding Cakes DIY Cookie Designer Kits Custom Sugar Cookies Cakes & Cocktails

KimonesCakeArtStudio.com

@KimonesCakeArtStudio

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

la section haitienne Haitian carrier establishes new route from DR to Jamaica

Death toll climbs as gang warfare continues Gang violence killed or injured at least 300 people from since the start of July in Haiti’s Cité Soleil, an impoverished and densely populated neighbourhood of the capital Port-au-Prince, the United Nations (UN) said on Saturday.

The unrest erupted between two rival factions and the city’s ill-equipped and understaffed police failed to intervene, trapping residents in their homes, unable to go out for even food and water.

With many houses in the slums made of sheet metal, residents fell victim to stray bullets.

Ambulances were unable to reach those in need.

“Most of the victims were not directly involved in gangs and were directly targeted by gang elements. We have also received new

reports of sexual violence,” said UN human rights office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence.

The Executive Director of the National Network of the Defense of Human Rights (RNDDH), Pierre Espérance, says the death toll from the fights among rival criminal gangs in Cité Soleil has reached monumental levels as Haiti continues to reel from criminal activities.

E s p é ranc e , s p e aki ng o n a rad i o programme, said as a result of the war in Cité Soleil between the coalition of gangs of the G-9 and G-Pèp, the new toll now stands at around

300 dead and 160 injured, mostly innocent citizens.

The police have not confirmed the statement by the RNDDH official, nor have they released any information on reports that businessman, Rony Dumont, the husband of the mayor of the town of Saut-d'Eau, had been killed by his abductors.

Reports said Dumont, who was kidnapped on June 13, was killed a month and four days after his abduction despite the payment of four ransoms, according to his wife.

Police are also investigating reports that armed individuals kidnapped journalist, Edner Décime, from Alterpress who was in his vehicle on Sunday, close to the petrol pump at Delmas 30.

Two youth organizations say 13 percent of children surveyed in a troubled neighborhood of Port-au-Prince had been in contact with members of armed gangs who tried to recruit them.

The private Haitian airline Sunrise Airways, has announced the establishment of a new direct route between Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and Kingston, Jamaica.

According to airline officials, starting August 11, the direct flight between the Sunrise Airways hub at La Isabela International Airport – also known as Joaquín Balaguer International Airport in the Dominican Republic – and Kingston, Jamaica, will take place on Thursdays and Sundays.

The new route is described as one that will offer passengers new business and tourism opportunities.

The 90 minute flight will be operated by the Dominican subsidiary of Sunrise Airways.

Haitian gang member extradited to the US Haiti has extradited 40-year-old Maxony Germinal to the United States where he is accused of being one of the arms and ammunition suppliers of the notorious criminal organization “400 Mawozo” involved in kidnapping and murders in the country.

Germinal was arrested on April 26 in Malpasse, a town in the Croix-desBouquets Arrondissement in the Ouest department of Haiti. as he was preparing to cross the border into the Dominican continues on B4 – Extradited

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 –

B1

COMMUNITY

Jamaica's Opposition Leader meets Diaspora members in South Florida After a whirlwind packed three-day visit to South Florida, Jamaica's Leader of the parliamentary Opposition and leader of the People's National Party (PNP), Mark Golding, departed July 16 to continue his meetings with members of the Jamaican diaspora in Atlanta, Georgia.

Golding accompanied by his wife, and members of the opposition PNP, are on a fourcity tour of the USA, primarily to introduce the leadership of the party to the diaspora, and herald in the celebration of Jamaica's 60th anniversary of political independence which falls on August 6.

Golding, and his party, including PNP General Secretary Dr. Dayton Campbell, party chairperson Dr. Angela Brown-Burke, and Senator Peter Bunting, arrived in South Florida on July 13.

During his visit, Golding met with several local organizations and individuals, including Jamaican-Americans elected to public office in South Florida; members of the Jamaica Alumni and teachers' association; members of medical missions to Jamaica; and members of the judicial and legal fraternity in South Florida.

Of his meeting with the elected officials

Golding said. “It's heartening to see the legacy of service and duty from the members of the diaspora, among both first- and secondgeneration Jamaicans.” Meeting with Golding and other members of the PNP leadership were Mayor Wayne Messam of the City of Miramar; Vice Mayor Melissa Dunn of the City of Lauderhill: Commissioner Mark Douglas, City of Sunrise; and Florida State Representatives Anika Omphroy and Daryl

Campbell.

Regarding his meeting with heads of Jamaican alumni and teachers' associations in the region, Golding said, “That meeting was a must, especially as education worldwide is facing difficult and unprecedented times. This meeting was a great way to hear perspectives on education in Jamaica and swap notes on how we can work together, and on behalf of our teachers, students, and the general

education system.”

With the provision of adequate healthcare in Jamaica a primary concern among the Jamaican diaspora, Golding regarded his meeting with members of non-governmental organizations and the frequent medical missions to Jamaica as another high priority.

“The diaspora plays a large role in sending much-needed medical equipment, supplies, and personnel to Jamaica to help our hospitals and clinics. Not only must we express our gratitude, but we need to listen to the roadblocks they face and how we can work together to help to make this process smoother.”

On Friday evening, Golding met and interacted with members of the diaspora at a cultural presentation hosted by the City of Miramar at the Miramar City Hall. The event commemorating Jamaica's 60th independence anniversary and promoted as 'A Public Celebration of Jamaican Diamond Jubilee', featured artistes including the Jamaica Folk Revue, Drumming Fingers, and local dub-poet Malachi Smith.

Expressing delight with the performances, Golding said, “Jamaica 60 is a very impressive milestone for Jamaicans worldwide. No matter where we are in the world, we cannot help but carry a little bit of our island home in our hearts. Tonight's public reception and cultural presentation, where we are able to showcase our culture, as well as meet everyone, is a distinct pleasure.”

The evening culminated in street dancing, which evoked memories of traditional street dances in Jamaica to celebrate the nation's independence. Golding and his party participated merrily in the event, dancing to music provided by local DJ's Mark Swaby and Radcliff.

Not showing signs of wear after his packed three-day visit to South Florida, as he left the street dancing Golding commented. “In true yaad style, we closed the night with a street dance! Jamaica 60 is alive and well in Florida.”

The Leader of the Opposition's tour continues in Atlanta from today to July 18, then on to Washington DC from July 18 to 20, and culminating in New York City from July 20 -22.

The Miramar Cultural Center presents Counter Valance II The Miramar Cultural Center (MCC), located at 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar has an exciting exhibit on display at the Ansin Family Art Gallery, Counter Valence II: The Gods are Watching in Silence by artist Isaie “Zeek” Mathias.

The collection takes guests on a sensory journey, literally and metaphorically, providing photographic glimpses into Haitian life. It is on display through August 7, 2022, with showing hours Mondays to Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Sunday, July 24, 2022, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in a free and open to the public meet and greet, patrons can get close and personal with the artist behind the thought- provoking photographs.

Zeek's work contradicts the perception of how Haiti has always been portrayed as a destitute “third world country.” The provoking images tell an inspiring story of Haitian life, set in its picturesque, tropical backdrop.

Through reminiscent photographs and innocent diary accounts, Zeek contrasts the general thought of the country's poverty with the reality of its richness of culture, historical contribution, and human resilience.

The Artist Meet and Greet will have light refreshments, however, guests must register.

Additional event highlights include smooth jazz by Wildmayer “Will” Marcelin, known as the gumbo of musical harmony.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

A D V E R T O R I A L

Cannabis Experts Urges Caution About Delta-8 Use What is Delta-8 THC and why is it under intense scrutiny in the regulated marijuana space?

You may have seen Delta-8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) advertised as infused in edibles, vape inhalers, smokeable joints, and tinctures sold everywhere from online marketplaces to gas stations to smoke shops to convenience stores. Delta-8 can also be found in cannabis-related products carried at Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers throughout the state. Cannabis above 0.3% total THC is still a controlled substance as a Schedule 1 drug, meaning it is illegal under federal law.

The reason Delta-8 THC can be sold is because the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, commonly referred to as the 2018 farm bill, was written with broad definitions and rules regarding the legalization of hemp. The bill does not address Delta-8 THC and other variations.

Delta-8 THC can be chemically created from CBD (cannabidiol), which is the Delta-8 THC found in many of the previously mentioned products.

The Delta-8 THC manufacturing process “uses substances such as hydrocarbons and acids. They're re-agents. These are solvents that are often found as contaminants in the products because the producer doesn't utilize the steps to cleanse the final product from these re-agents and solvents,” explains Dr. Genester Wilson-King, a qualified medical marijuana physician and the vice president of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians. In addition, there are other by-products that could be created in this chemical reaction that we don't know about, she said.

Florida's former director of cannabis, Holly

“I'm careful about using the word 'synthetic,” Ms. Bell says. “How I describe this product is it's chemically derived because they are putting a chemical on an organic compound to convert it into another organic compound, and that chemical is a solvent.” – Bell Bell, says Delta-8 THC products are required to test for solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants, but that is as far as the state goes.

“I'm careful about using the word 'synthetic,” Ms. Bell says. “How I describe this product is it's chemically derived because they are putting a chemical on an organic compound

to convert it into another organic compound, and that chemical is a solvent.”

To that point, Dr. Wilson-King offers this warning: “You don't know what the other unknown by-products are and how they will affect your body every time you dose with Delta-8 THC. Are they carcinogens? Are they damaging various organs inside your body? We

do not know.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), adverse effects of Delta-8 THC ingestion reportedly include lethargy, hallucinations, vomiting, tremors, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Ms. Bell says anyone using Delta-8 THC products for medicinal purposes, such as to help them sleep or curb anxieties, should consult with a qualified medical marijuana physician. The Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use lists more than 2,100 qualified physicians on its website, KnowTheFactsMMJ.com.

She and Dr. Wilson-King also recommend checking the scannable QR code to review the certificate of analysis (COA) on any hemp and cannabis-based products.

“Make sure your COA has a date within the last six months to a year and that it is a full panel test, which they have to do, and that it's covering all of the things, the solvents, the heavy metals, the pesticides,” says Ms. Bell.

Citing safety concerns, about a dozen states have banned Delta-8 THC. Editor's note: This commentary is provided by the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) of Florida A&M University.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 –

B3

LOCAL

Clarke welcomes passage of Women’s Health Protection Act

By Santana Salmon CNW Reporter

Caribbean American Congresswoman, Yvette D. Clarke, has welcomed the passage of the Women’s Health Protection Act and the Ensuring Access to Abortion Act in the US House of Representatives.

Clarke, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, who represents the 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn, New York, joined other legislators over the weekend in hailing the passage of the measures in the wake of the US Supreme Court’s ruling that overturns the constitutional right to abortion and denies millions of women their right to choose.

“Only weeks ago, six far-right Supreme Court justices ruled in defiance of a half-century of legal precedent and against common sense and morality by overturning Roe v. Wade, consequently stripping the right to abortion from millions of American women and girls

Clarke

and denying them autonomy over their own bodies,” said the legislators in a joint statement.

“This heartless, feckless decision comes on the heels of a decades-long war waged by the anti-choice party to undermine Americans and deny them their constitutional rights.

“Make no mistake, this ruling represents nothing more than disdain of women’s rights and progress, and a shameful smear by vicious

extremists. Though we are furious, above all else, we are concerned for the countless women who will suffer because of this ruling, especially the millions living in the 13 states that have already outlawed abortion, many of whom are Black and brown women, low-income women, and women from rural communities long burdened by the traumatic impacts of systemic inequality and discrimination.”

The legislators said, “the freedom to choose our own fate is, and always will be, the foundation upon which any and every other freedom is derived,” adding that House Democrats last Friday “took necessary, historic steps towards permanently protecting the right of women and pregnant people to an abortion”.

They said the Women’s Health Protection Act and the Ensuring Access to Abortion Act “represent an opportunity for the Senate to codify the right to choose into the legal fabric of our country.

LOG ON TO cnweeklynews.com

Florida woman found dead, grabbed by gators in pond Authorities say a Florida woman was found dead after falling in a pond and being grabbed by two alligators.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office told news outlets that the elderly woman was seen falling into the pond along a golf course in Englewood late Friday and struggling to stay afloat.

While she was in the water, two alligators were seen grabbing her, authorities said. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two alligators have been removed from the area, but it’s not yet clear whether those were the reptiles involved.

The cause of death has not been determined.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says alligators are more active when temperatures rise.

Florida teen charged with smothering sister, 3, to quiet her A teen in Florida is facing a manslaughter charge after police say she killed her 3-year-old sister by putting a pillow over her head after their mother told the girl to quiet the toddler while she was on a work call at an extended stay hotel.

The 16-year-old girl was arrested last Friday, according to police officials in Altamonte Springs, a suburb of Orlando.

According to a police report, the 3-year-old girl was being loud so their mother asked her older daughter to keep her younger sister quiet in the suite’s living room while she was on the phone for work in the bedroom. The teenager put a pillow over her sister’s head to quiet her down, and when she returned to the room, her sister was unresponsive, according to the Altamonte Springs Police Department.

Police officers were called to the hotel, and the toddler was taken to a hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Extradited from A8

Republic.

The authorities said he was extradited last Saturday as part of a mutual legal assistance policy with Haiti, initiated by the American judicial authorities of the District of Columbia.

Germinal is also accused of being one the accomplices in the October 17, 2021, kidnapping of 17 American missionaries from a Christian religious organization located in Ohio, as well as members of their family including children.

The kidnappers had demanded US$17 million for their release, but the missionaries managed to get away on their own, their organization has said.

Germinal is the second Haitian involved in the kidnapping of the American missionaries to be handed over to US authorities, following the extradition of 26-year-old Jean Pelice on May 16, 2022.

Pelice appeared in US court on July 7.

According to the complaint, Pelice, along with other members of the gang used firearms to guard the missionaries during their captivity.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

LEISURE ACROSS 1

2

3

4

5

13

14

17

18

20

21

24

25 30

35

36

49

50

26

73

66

11

27

28

29

32

33

23

39

38

44 48 53

52 56

57 62

61

71

34

40

43

51

67

12

16

47

60 65

10

22

55

54

9

19

42 46

8 15

37

45

70

7

31

41

64

6

68

58

59

63 69 72 75

PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL

www.AstroMahindraji.com Specializes in Get Rid of Black Magic, Generation curse, Jadoo, Obiya, Witchcraft, Voodoo, All type of Evil Spirits, etc.

954-995-9994

DOWN

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 –

C1

ENTERTAINMENT St. Lucians participate in Carnival activities after two year-hiatus

Dancehall’s

Merciless Found Dead in Hotel Room Jamaican dancehall entertainer Merciless was found dead in a hotel room near Lyndhurst Road in St. Andrew earlier today. Initial reports suggest that the DJ died from natural causes.

Merciless, whose given name is Leonard Bartley was born on 1 July 1971 in Turner district Chapelton, Clarendon, Jamaica.

Merciless first found success performing with sound systems across Jamaica. He made his recording début in 1994 with “Lend Out Mi Mercy“, which was a hit in Jamaica and elsewhere, and a string of further hits followed, including “Mavis”, which was the top

reggae single in Jamaica in 1995 and used the same riddim as Shaggy’s “Mr. Boombastic”. Like several other dancehall stars, he adopted ‘conscious’ lyrical content in the late 1990s. He is similar in sound to fellow artist Bounty Killer.

He is also known by the nickname “Warhead”, and engaged in several high-profile on-stage ‘battles’ in the late 1990s and 2000s with fellow deejays Beenie Man, Ninjaman, and Bounty Killer. His rivalry with Bounty Killer did not prevent the two from recording together, “No One Cares” released in 2000.

Revellers took to the streets on Monday following a two-year hiatus, as St. Lucians participated in Carnival activities since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, in a statement on his Facebook page, urged to be safe and responsible while health authorities reminded the public to take care of their sexual health during the two-day carnival festivities.

“Be responsible. Be safe. Have fun,” Pierre said, adding that as is customary, he would be viewing and enjoying the Parade of the Bands from the side-lines.

“After a two-year hiatus and months of planning, today, thousands of carnival revellers will play their mas. Please have a safe and enjoyable masquerade,” Pierre wrote, expressing gratitude to Carnival band owners, entertainers, promoters, stakeholders, and essential services personnel, for contributing to the industry's growth.

“We will continue to support you,” Pierre said.

Meanwhile, Senior Medical Officer in the Ministry of Health's Infectious Disease Unit, Dr. Gail Gajadhar, said during the Carnival season, people are more likely to become impetuous and urged the public to be prepared regardless of the circumstances.

“Carnival is a time when we find people are uninhibited, meaning they are more likely to do things they would not have done in other situations.

There are different reasons for that, for example, alcohol use. Any substance that alters feelings and moods can affect one's ability to make sound decisions. I encourage persons to be prepared and carry protection. If you don't know your partner, ensure that you have protection so that if you find yourself in an unexpected situation you are prepared. Safe sex does not apply only to carnival festivities. It applies 365 days a year, and ideally you're practicing safe sex because you don't want to acquire any unwanted sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis.”

Stone Love Movement and Jamaica 60th Comes to Miramar The sound system culture will take center stage in Miramar as Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis presents the exciting celebration of Jamaica 60th Pre- Independence Day Fête with Stone Love Movement on Friday, August 5, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. at the Miramar Multi-Service Complex located at 6700 Miramar Parkway.

Stone Love Movement, which is also celebrating its 50th anniversary of sound

system culture and entertainment to the world will be led by noted dancehall selector “Geefus”.

There is much to be appreciated in sound clash culture. This tradition traces its roots back to 1950s Jamaica when systems like Tom the Great Sebastian and Duke Reid’s the Trojan clashed in Kingston. For decades, sound systems would travel far and wide, to champion their crew and ‘kill’ their opponents, notably with dubplates courtesy of some of the most

gifted voices in Reggae and Dancehall.

This celebration is free for everyone to come and enjoy. Food, drinks, and souvenirs will be available for purchase. Music provided

by I-Star Sound System along with DJ X-Quad, Mickey-D Xpress, DJ Agent Movement, and more!

“As a proud Jamaican, I am honored to present this Independence Day fête to my Miramar community, my fellow Jamaicans,

and those who want to learn more about the Jamaican culture,” says Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis. “This event signifies our rich heritage and reminds us of our dynamic cultural upbringing. I welcome everyone to join me at this celebration.”

To register, visit MiramarJam60.eventbrite.com.

For information, call (954)-602-3156.

C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

MARKETPLACE PROBATE / INHERITANCE LAW EDUCATION LAW MEDIATION

BANKRUPTCY - FORECLOSURE DEFENSE

1451 West Cypress Creek Road, Suite 300, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

www.DsouzaLegalGroup.com

954.535.0827

8751 W. Broward Blvd St 301, Plantation FL 33324

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our experience and qualifications.

Free Initial Consultation

Real Estate

Payment Plans Available

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement.

Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

John Beckford The Beckford Group

Email: dtdlaw@aol.com

Realtor & Licensed CAM

“Experts in the First Time Home Buyers Down Payment Assistance Program” 8400 N. University Drive, Suite 312, Tamarac FL 33321 Cell: 954.494.4483 Ofce: 954.444.9950

tbgreteam.com TBG Real Estate @TBGRealEstateFlorida

Buying Selling Renting

Commercial Investing Property Management

Mention this newspaper and receive up to $500 towards your closing costs.

MEDIX URGENT CARE CENTER Don’t spend hours in the emergency room. Come to us for...

Cough, Colds, Flu, Pregnancy Tests Suture Repair & Removal

Medication Re ills Immunizations ...and all minor care

G License Physical....... $45 CPR............................. $45/$65 Inservices.................... $10 each IV Vitamins..................$65 & up

Immigration Medicals

35

$

School, Sports and Work Physicals Mon.-Fri: 9am – 7pm Sat: Closed Sun: 11am – 5pm

954.484.8444

954.589.1238

2331 N. State Rd. 7, Suite 102, Lauderhill, FL 33313

3829 Hollywood Blvd. Ste A Hollywood, FL 33021

Free Covid test available.

No Appointment Necessary.

Funeral Assisstance Plans

STANDARD RATES

You can have members in Jamaica, Barbados, Haiti, Dominican Republic and the Bahamas on this plan. In addition your airline ticket your relatives or friends on this plan.

24 Hour

We Clear Warrants!

“Just Call My Name & I’ll be there!”

ALICIA BAKERS BAIL BONDS, INC. 4959 N State Rd. 7, Suite A, Tamarac 33319

954.777.9946

954.297.9967

SPECIAL RATES

For more information please call (954)319-7066.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 –

C3

SPORTS

Fraser Pryce Cements Status as Greatest Female Sprinter “I'm a competitor. I love to compete. I believe that God has given me a gift and I somehow feel special, and I always want to compete and show the work that I have been doing. I'm hardworking and I'm driven and I'm always hungry to do more because I [always] believe there is more to be done. – Fraser Pryce

Legendary Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce cemented her status as the greatest female sprinter ever after claiming an historic fifth 100 metres World title on Sunday night.

The pint-sized Fraser-Pryce raced to a superb championship record of 10.67 at Hayward Field as she led her country's sweep of the podium, with Shericka Jackson taking silver in 10.73 and Elaine Thompson-Herah claiming bronze in 10.81.

“I'm a competitor. I love to compete. I believe that God has given me a gift and I somehow feel special, and I always want to compete and show the work that I have been doing,” Fraser-Pryce told media moments after her victory.

“I definitely believe I can run fast and once I have that belief; I'm not going to stop until I do.”

Fraser-Pryce won her first-ever global title at age 21 in the 100 metres at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and followed up the very next year with her first 100 metres World title in

Berlin.

Since then, the amicable sprinter has gone on to dominate sprinting, adding World titles in Moscow, Beijing, and Doha, before producing her fireworks in the Pacific Northwest.

Fraser-Pryce was forced to play second fiddle to Thompson-Herah with silver at last year's Tokyo

Olympics and though it left many questioning her future in the sport, she said she had remained focused.

“There are a lot of expectations I'm sure but that has nothing to do with me. I'm just focused on running my race and following the instructions of my coach,” she pointed out.

“If I sit and worry about the opinions of 20 other people then I'll

never hear the voice I need to hear and that's my own voice and my coach's voice.

“So I focus on those two things, and I eliminate [everything] else, and I get to the line, and I compete.”

She added: “For me, I hope it shows them age doesn't change anything. You can be in your 20s, you can be in your 30s and you can still accomplish greatness, so you just have to believe in yourself, trust your instincts and your gut, listen to your coach, show up and compete.”

Only last month, Fraser-Pryce signaled her best form when she raced to 10.67 at the Paris Diamond League before clocking 10.70 at the National Championships in Kingston.

And she said being able to dip below 10.70 had been especially pleasing, especially amidst the pressure of big races.

“I'm glad I was able to do it again.

Championships for me are weird,” she explained.

“You're thinking about so many things, and you just want to win for a lot of people so technically sometimes you're going to be off but to come away with a win is good.

“I have another 100 to run in Poland so I'm definitely looking forward to that and hopefully [in] different conditions which are a lot more relaxed and hopefully you can have a better execution.”

She added: “The conditions are intense [at major championships] and it's very different because you're focused on just getting out and running [and] getting to the line first.

“So definitely it wasn't technically the best race so hopefully I will be able to put that together in other meets.”

HORSE RACING

Nelson, Prescod ride braces to extend good form Jamaican Dane Nelson continued to chase the lead at Century Mile with another brace while recent arrival N'Rico Prescod of Barbados also logged a double, to shine on Saturday's eight-race card.

The 37-year-old Nelson captured race one with favorite Linchpin Storm and race five with another favorite Stevie Wonder Girl while the 23-year-old Prescod won with 2-1 choice Count

On It in race six and 25-1 longshot No Collusion in race seven.

Enrique Gonzalez, who also won twice on Saturday, tops the standings with 29 wins but Nelson is just two behind, while Prescod lies seventh on ten wins in what has been a competitive campaign at the western Canada oval.

Nelson opened his account in a six-furlong sprint, guiding four-year-old gelding Linchpin Storm to a one-length win over the three-yearolds and upward.

Linchpin Storm stalked early while Mr. Artistic dueled with Yorktown before grabbing

the lead near the five-sixteenth. However, Linchpin Storm wore down the leader in the stretch before getting by late.

Nelson's second win came in a mile trip, piloting three-year-old filly Stevie Wonder Girl to a crushing 9¾ length victory over the threeyear-old and upward fillies and mares.

Stevie Wonder Girl dismissed a challenge from Get Bakk through the first quarter before dominating the latter stages.

Prescod, last season's champion apprentice in Barbados, claimed his first win of the day after five previous attempts when he combined with three-year-old filly Count On it to beat the

three-year-old and upward fillies and mares by 2½ lengths over six furlongs.

Favorite Jagen, ridden by Barbadian Rico Walcott, produced the early fractions before being run down in the stretch by Count On it.

Prescod followed up immediately, pairing with five-year-old bay mare No Collusion to carve out a three-quarter length score over the three-year-old and upward fillies and mares, in another six-furlong sprint.

Edge of Okotoks and Eyespymylittleeye dueled through the first half before Prescod brought No Collusion from off the pace to get the better of the running in the lane.

CRICKET

Lendl Simmons retires from international cricket West Indies batsman Lendl Simmons has retired from international cricket after 16 years in the sport, two days after fellow Trinidadian and former Windies teammate Denesh Ramdin made a similar announcement.

“I’m closing this chapter of international cricket having played 144 matches and scoring 3,763 runs from all formats,” Simmons said in the announcement on Twitter on Monday.

“I still do extensive training and keep myself relatively fit, so my focus is to continue playing franchise cricket for as long as my body permits. Hopefully, I can continue to entertain the people of my region and all over the world for a few more years as I’m still timing the ball beautifully and beating bowling.”

The top-order batsman, who played for the West Indies in eight Tests, 68 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, last represented the Caribbean side against South Africa in a group stage match at last year’s T20 World Cup. He said he had given the game his all throughout his career.

“I never cheated the game; I gave it 100 percent of hard work and that is why

I was able to play internationally for almost 16 years,” said Simmons who made his debut for West Indies on December 7, 2006, with an ODI series against Pakistan in Faisalabad before playing his first T20 and Test matches in 2007 and 2009, respectively.

The right-handed batsman, occasional right-arm medium pace bowler and part-time wicketkeeper offered advice to young cricketers as he urged them not to be ashamed to dream big.

“I wish the new crop of WI players all the best and to keep on believing in yourselves and your abilities,” he said.

“It takes a lot of a lot of determination, focus, and a strong mind to get over the numerous hurdles, but it is all worth it in the end.”

Simmons was part of the Windies’ winning 2012 and 2016 ICC T20 World Cup teams and participated in the Caribbean Premier League where he was the leading run-scorer with 2,629 runs that included 20 half-centuries from a total of 91 innings. He also took his talents to the Indian Premier League, Pakistan Super League, Bangladesh

Premier League, and the Abu Dhabi T10.

Of his total 3,763 runs in international cricket, Simmons made 1,958 in ODIs, 1,527 in T20I, and 278 in Tests.

He expressed gratitude to the West Indies cricket team for the opportunities provided to him; and thanked his family and friends who were his “true motivators” and stood alongside him “when the odds were against me”, as well as his fans who cheered him on from the stands or via social media.

Last Friday, in a post on Instagram, former West Indies captain Ramdin announced his retirement from international cricket but not professional cricket, as he said he will still be playing franchise cricket around the world.

The wicketkeeper-batter said the past 14 years of his career “have been a dream come true”.

“I fulfilled my childhood dreams by playing cricket for Trinidad and Tobago and the West Indies,” he said.

Ramdin, who was also part of the West Indies T20 World Cup triumphs in 2012 and 2016 played a total of 74 Tests, 139 ODIs and 71 T20Is for the West Indies.

Violet Edwards

from A5

Kensington in the parish of Portland, Jamaica. She was the youngest of three children and was always an avid reader and a curious child. She excelled in school and became the first in her village to attend Happy Grove High School on a full academic scholarship. This was during World War II, and she remembers many sacrifices to obtain basic school supplies. She went on to pass her Senior Cambridge exams, which was necessary to continue to higher education.

However, money was not available to pursue higher education, so Violet entered the workforce. She made a successful career in the postal service in Jamaica. She retired from the position and moved her family to the USA to pursue better opportunities.

Violet focused on family and getting her daughter through medical school. Once that goal was accomplished, she decided to go to college to pursue her degree while working full time. Again, financial roadblocks intervened, and she was not able to complete her goals, reluctantly leaving school one year shy of obtaining her goal of a bachelor’s degree. She spent the intervening years helping her daughter establish her medical practice, helping to raise her grandchildren and recently opted to return to college to accomplish her goal before she celebrates her centennial.

One phone call however revealed that her prior school, The College of New Rochelle had gone out of business, just the year before. Mercy College in New York had become the custodian of the student records. So off to Mercy she went after being accepted as a transfer student. Unfortunately, of her 84 credits earned at the College of New Rochelle Violet was unable to transfer all her prior college credits.

Consequently, she had to settle for an Associate of Science degree, which she earned from Mercy College, New York with highest honors with a 4.0 grade point average.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUL 21 – JUL 27, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T