Caribbean National Weekly June 23, 2022

THE MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED CARIBBEAN AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN FLORIDA

CNWEEKLYNEWS.COM

THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2022

TOP STORIES JAAA conrms Fraser-Pryce will get a bye to 100m at World Champs

World Bank approves funds to strengthen primary health care in Haiti

KUDOS!

Jamaicans cautioned about using cryptocurrencies

Diaspora Gives US$300 Million Boost to Jamaica’s Healthcare Sector

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jamaica’s healthcare sector received a boost valued at US$300 million from various diaspora organizations and individuals. This was revealed by the island’s Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie at the recent Diaspora Conference continues on B4 – Kudos!

Health and Wellness session.

ECLAC-ILO warns of ‘slow, partial and uneven’ employment in the Caribbean The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) say while regional economies grew 6.6 percent last year, the recovery in employment has been “slow, partial and uneven”.

In a joint report entitled “Employment Situation in Latin America and the Caribbean, real wages during the pandemic: trends and challenges,” the two United Nations agencies underline that the recovery of employment to pre-coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic levels lags in comparison to

the recovery in the countries’ economic activity.

The report notes that by the end of 2021, most countries had regained their pre-crisis gross domestic product (GDP) levels, while employment levels remained lower in many cases.

“As seen in other crisis situations, the dynamics between employment and economic activity play a critical role in implementing better and more timely labor policies, which means that possible lags in employment suggest the need to strengthen the instruments to facilitate people’s reincorporation into the labor market.”

The report said after the number of employed in the region suffered a historic contraction in 2020 (8.2 percent), there was a significant rebound in

that indicator in 2021, notching 6.8 percent growth in the fourth quarter of that year versus the same period of 2020.

“However, despite the considerable increase in employment throughout the year, the number of employed people in the region did not return to the level seen at the end of 2019 until the fourth quarter of 2021.”

The report states the labor gaps between men and women widened in 2021, adding that the labor market recovery has also been unequal, “to the detriment of women.

“Although employment and labor force participation has improved for both men and women, the former have benefited more than the continues on B4 – Slow growth

Jamaica Carnival Calendar of Events 2022

Guyana to promote the use of renewable energy sources with IDB and Norway support

UWI’s SRC cops global award for managing La Soufrière crisis

Guyana to provide free treatment for people living with Hepatitis C

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

Meet the First Black Female President of the Broward County Bar Association A3

Guyana’s President dismisses calls for resignation of Vice President A4

Spice Receives International Music Ambassador Award C1

Beautifully Done!

Fraser-Pryce Pleased with execution of her 100m victory C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 Miami Gardens Vice Mayor Reggie Leon speaks during the first press conference for the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup where Miami was announced as an official host city. – Contributed

Principal Stewart Baugh speaks at the gradua on ceremony for the graduates of Millennium 6-12 Collegiate Academy gradua on held in Tamarac. – Contributed

Global Jamaica Diaspora Council USA representa ves at the recent Diaspora conference in Kingston Jamaica. L to R Dr. Karren Dunkley NE Dr. Allan Cunningham SE and Shauna Chin W MW. – Contributed

The Environ Cultural Center was the mee ng place for 'Tea Time with Seniors' hosted by Lauderhill Commissioner Denise Grant (seated) on June 16th. She was joined by representa ves from the Lauderhill Police Department, Parks and Recrea on Department, Area Agency on Aging of Broward County, Broward County Property Appraiser's Office and Healing Arts Ins tute. – Contributed

Excelsior alumni Sheves and Anthony at an Excelsior Alumni Fun Day in TY Park in Hollywood – Contributed

Mayor of Miramar Wayne Mesam takes a group selfie with members of the Girl Scouts Troop 10507 on June 11th. The Mayor also assisted in giving each member their badge. – Contributed

Excelsior alumni Owen and Kenroy at an Excelsior Alumni Fun Day in TY Park in Hollywood – Contributed

Miramar Commissioner Alexandra Davis (le ) and People's Na onal Party Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade, Lisa Hanna pose for a photo during the 9th Bi-Annual Jamaican Diaspora Conference last week. – Contributed

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 –

A3

NEWSMAKER

First Black Female President of Broward County Bar Association Jamaican American attorney Alison Smith made history on June 18 when she was sworn in as the first Black woman President of the Broward County Bar Association (BCBA) in Florida.

Before law school, she earned a BSc in psychology with a minor in legal studies.

Later, at age-33, she became the first Black, the youngest, and the first Caribbean-American partner in the 25year history of the law firm Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, P.L. Throughout her legal career she has received awards from such notable organizations as the Broward County Bar Association, the Miami Herald, South Florida Business Journal, Daily Business Review, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and Legacy Magazine.

The swearing-in ceremony was part of a gala staged by the voluntary Broward Bar Association at the Ritz Carlton Hotel on Ft Lauderdale Beach.

“This historic moment is not lost on me,” said Smith during her acceptance speech at her swearing-in as president. She is the first woman of color to serve as the organization's president in its nearly 100-year history.

The Jamaican American is currently a Partner at Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, where she practices labor and I am proud of my employment law.

Jamaican culture and She has been on the board of the Broward County Bar Association since 2014 and is also the my Jamaican accent. former president of the Caribbean Bar Although Jamaica has Association.

Smith was born in New York but at oneits challenges, I month-old was taken by her parents, Fay and fiercely defend it, and Donald Smith, an attorney who practiced in am proud to see other Black River, St Elizabeth, to Jamaica, where she grew up with her sisters, Meisha Smith-Coulter, Jamaicans in the also a lawyer and Jessica Smith, a doctor. spotlight.

It's my aim After graduating from Manchester High School in Mandeville, Smith returned to the to occupy the spotUnited States, where she settled in Miramar, and light in a positive way, followed her father's footsteps by pursuing a law career. reflecting on Jamaica At the age of 22 years old, Smith became the and Jamaicans. youngest graduate with the Juris Doctorate degree from Nova Southeastern University in Florida. She was also the youngest valedictorian.

She also spearheaded several initiatives to showcase and inspire people of color in their college career such as “Aspire to Inspire” at Miami Dade College where students hear from minorities and immigrants who have struggled and achieved success in their various fields.

Smith says her Jamaican heritage has “significantly influenced” her principles, morals, values, and her law practice.

“I am proud of my Jamaican culture and my Jamaican accent. Although Jamaica has its challenges, I fiercely defend it, and am proud to see other Jamaicans in the spotlight. It's my aim to occupy the spotlight in a positive way, reflecting on Jamaica and Jamaicans,” she noted in a previous interview with CNW Network.

She is the mother of twin girls and caregiver for her 100y e a r - o l d g r a n dmother.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN IMF predicts 11 percent growth for Barbados The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Tuesday said despite significant economic shocks associated with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, twin natural disasters, and the war in Ukraine, Barbados has made good progress in implementing its Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) plan to restore fiscal and debt sustainability, rebuild reserves, and increase growth.

In a statement, the Washingtonbased financial institution said that international reserves increased to US$1.5 billion at end-2021 supported by international financial institutions (IFI) loans.

“This, and a successful 2018-19 public debt restructuring, helped rebuild confidence in the country’s macroeconomic framework,” the IMF said, adding that economic growth is projected at 11 percent for 2022 premised on a robust recovery of tourism, which is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2024.

It said the outlook nonetheless remains highly uncertain, and risks are elevated, including from higher global commodity prices following the Russian invasion of Ukraine that are feeding into inflation. The IMF said since Barbados imports the bulk of its food and energy needs, the government has adopted temporary value added tax (VAT) caps on oil products to contain retail price increases -fiscal cost of 0.3 percent of gross domestic product (GDP).

Guyana’s President dismisses calls for resignation of VP President Irfaan Ali has dismissed calls from the opposition for vice president Bharrat Jagdeo to step aside or be fired to allow a probe into the allegations of corruption leveled against him by a Chinese businessman.

Before departing for Rwanda to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government

president Ali said.

The Opposition believes that there should be an independent international probe following the allegations made by the Chinese businessman.

Ali said the government is focused on delivering a prosperous Guyana for and he is

“Absolute rubbish, as I said before there is not a shred of evidence with the greatest use of deception and secrecy to implicate the vice president in any wrongdoing.” – Ali meeting, the president said Jagdeo should take legal action against the news agency and the journalist who filed the report.

“Absolute rubbish, as I said before there is not a shred of evidence with the greatest use of deception and secrecy to implicate the Vice President in any wrongdoing. The attempts by Norton to score cheap political points on a nonissue are part of his desperation in light of the tremendous strides of the Government”,

not interested in the “sideshows and baseless targeting.”

The president added that Jagdeo “enjoys my full confidence”.

Meanwhile, Jagdeo has indicated that he intends to take legal action against the Chinese businessman who made the claims and who he considered a close friend.

The vice president has repeatedly indicated that the allegations against him are false.

Jagdeo

Bermuda same-sex couples assured marriages will remain valid A campaign group has welcomed an assurance from Bermuda’s Home Affairs Minister Walter Roban that same-sex couples who married before a landmark Privy Council judgment would have their nuptials remain valid if legislation tabled in the House of Assembly on Friday is passed.

Roban, who is also deputy premier, said the Domestic Partnership Amendment Act 2022 would extend a transitional period in light of the

ruling handed down by the island’s highest court of appeal in London in March.

The Privy Council, the island’s highest court, in a majority 4-1 ruling, said the Domestic Partnership Act (DPA), which confined marriage to between a man and a woman, was not unconstitutional.

The ruling gave the Bermuda government the green light to ban future same-sex marriages in the British Overseas Territory. It is under-

stood that by mid-March, there had been 33 same-sex marriages on the island since 2017 and ten on Bermuda-registered ships.

“The uncertainty over the validity and recognition of same-sex marriages potentially has widespread negative effect on the rights previously enjoyed by the couples involved who were married lawfully under the law as it existed at the time and who may suffer the loss or interruption of certain rights and benefits,” continues on A5 – Same-sex Marriages

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, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 –

A5

CARIBBEAN GRENADA

Political parties launch manifestos ahead of general election Grenada’s two main political parties have launched their manifestos as they prepare for Thursday’s general election that Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell called ahead of the March 2023 constitutional deadline.

The main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) launched its 52 page “Transforming Grenada” document on Monday night, a few hours ahead of the ruling New National Party (NNP) manifesto launch on Tuesday.

Both the NNP and the NDC are contesting all 15 seats in the June 23 general election, with the NNP having swept all the parliamentary seats in the last two general elections. There are five political parties and one independent candidate in the race.

Prime Minister Mitchell, 75, who has already indicated that this will be his last general election, said the manifesto outlines the plans for the future socioeconomic development of the island under an NNP administration.

“This is a manifesto of hope…and also of opportunities…it outlines a road map for the future,” Mitchell said, insisting “this document is achievable.

Prime Minister Mitchell urged the nation to regard the manifesto as “a developmental bible,” saying “always referring to it …for guidance as we go forward within the next five years.

“We have bold plans and bold initiatives and with leadership and the team working together, discipline and commitment, this document is achievable,” he added.

The NNP is promising improved housing, jobs, startup for small businesses, further assistance for those in the information, technology and communication (ICT) sector as aid to farmers, tourism and the health sectors.

The NDC, under the new leadership of 44-year-old attorney, Dickon Mitchell said its vision is for a “sustain-

954.739.6618

Dickon Mitchell

Keith Mitchell

able, equitable and prosperous Grenada”.

“The National Democratic Congress believes that now is the time for a new approach in the leadership and management of Grenada. We cannot continue on the same path with failed policies, bankrupt idea and the same old team that has failed to transform the lives and living conditions for Grenadians.

“We firmly believe that as a people we can do much better. The National Democratic Congress believes that we can once again instil confidence, faith and hope in our people,” The NDC leader added.

The NDC says it will honor its prior commitment for the payment of the pension to public servants, pay public servants twice per month to assist in addressing cash flow challenges, as well as undertake a collaborative review of wages with the private and labur sectors.

In addition, the NDC is promising the construction of a new modern hospital with teaching facilities, fully implement the National Health Insurance Scheme and create and facilitate access to housing that will increase substantially the number of Grenadian families who own and live in their own homes.

The party is also promising that if elected to office, it will guarantee “free universal education up to community college” with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Same-Sex Marriages from A4

Roban told legislators.

“It is therefore not tenable to leave the Act as it is without making the appropriate amendments,” he said, adding “Section 53 of the principal act provides that a marriage is void unless the parties are respectively male and female.”

The minister said the Act also allowed for a transitional period when certain same-sex marriages entered into on the island or on Bermudaregistered ships would be valid, and “before or during which certain overseas same-sex marriages could be recognized” on the island.

Legislators heard that the transitional period was from May 5, 2017, when a Supreme Court decision paved the way for same-sex marriage, until immediately before the commencement date of the DPA on June 1, 2018.

Roban said on June 6, 2018, then Chief Justice Ian Kawaley ruled in the Supreme Court that Section 53 of the Act was unconstitutional, but his judgment was stayed pending appeal.

“On November 23, 2018, the Court of Appeal upheld the Supreme Court decision – though on different grounds – and refused to extend the stay previously granted by the Supreme Court.

“Consequently, from that date same-sex marriages conducted in Bermuda and on Bermuda-registered ships were not invalidated by Section 53, and certain overseas same-sex marriages could be recognized in Bermuda.”

But Roban added that on March 14, 2022, the Privy Council overturned the decision of the Court of Appeal and determined that Section 53 was not unconstitutional.

“This cast doubt on the validity of same-sex marriages conducted in Bermuda or on Bermuda-registered ships since June 1, 2018, and the recognition in Bermuda since that date of overseas same-sex marriages.

“The intention of these proposed amendments is to extend the transitional period to March 14, 2022, to confirm the validity of same-sex marriages formalized according to the law of Bermuda prior to the date of the Privy Council judgment and to recognize certain same-sex marriages formalized overseas during the extended transitional period.”

After the legislation was tabled, the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning) campaign group OutBermuda said “while we wish that Bermuda was in a different place with equal marriage for all, we are grateful that those married couples that have been in limbo these past three months have certainty on the validity of their marriages under the law.”

The bill tabled on Friday is likely to be debated in the Parliament at the start of next month.

The original Supreme Court decision in 2017 came in a judgment by Puisne Judge Charles-Etta Simmons after Bermudian Winston Godwin and Greg DeRoche, his Canadian partner, litigated against the registrar general for refusing to post their wedding banns.

Despite their landmark victory, Godwin and DeRoche chose to marry in Canada. Bermudian lawyer Julia Saltus and her Ghanaian American partner Judith Aidoo were the first gay couple to wed in Bermuda.

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

EDITORIAL The Caribbean and the IMF:

Building on a Strong Partnership

N

early seven decades ago, famed Barbadian novelist George Lamming, who sadly passed away recently, wrote that, “The architecture of our future is not only unfinished; the scaffolding has hardly gone up.”

Now, as we celebrate his life, the people of Barbados, and the entire Caribbean, are once again putting in place the economic scaffolding to support building a more inclusive and resilient future.

This work goes on as the region, and the world, face the most difficult economic challenges since Lamming wrote those words. Caribbean economies were especially hard hit by the pandemic and lockdowns, contracting three times as much as the rest of the world in 2020.

While tourism remains below pre-COVID levels for most countries, it is on the rebound and gaining momentum. And we expect the region to grow by about 3.7 percent this year.

Still, there are big hurdles to overcome now and to build resilience for the future. Higher global food and fuel prices, exacerbated by the war in Ukraine, are putting upward pressure on inflation—stretching household budgets already stressed by the pandemic.

For most countries in the region, government debt is elevated, due in part to spending that was vital to the pandemic response—and tightening global financial conditions will increase the costs of servicing current debt, as well as in acquiring new financing.

Above all Caribbean countries must contend with the significant threat from climate change: more frequent and intense natural disasters, and the relentless rise in sea levels.

Building a more resilient future will not be easy in these circumstances, but the right policies—the right economic ‘scaffolding’—helps. Looking around the region, it’s encouraging to see how countries are doing just that.

I am keen to hear that regional perspective during my visit to Barbados this week, from Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Barbadian officials, from the people of Barbados directly, especially young people, as well as from policymakers from across the Caribbean, who will also join our discussions in Bridgetown.

Together we can define the right economic policies that can tame inflation, protect the most vulnerable, address debt, and fight climate change—so as to reinforce the economic recovery, and build resilience to future shocks.

Governments should target support to families in need by strengthening the adequacy and efficiency of social assistance. Take Grenada for instance, where they scaled up cash transfers through their main social assistance program to ensure households were adequately compensated for increased living costs.

Programs like this provide better support than measures like price controls on imported products, while conserving limited fiscal resources. Upgrading COVID-19 testing and reducing vaccine hesitancy will strengthen health systems and give tourists the confidence to return.

Central banks in the region also have an important role. Like their counterparts around the world, those with independent monetary policy should act decisively to address inflation and communicate clearly.

Tightening global financial conditions will also require added vigilance to preserve financial stability in the region, especially as debt suspension programs from earlier in the pandemic expire.

And, looming above all else is the need to adapt to climate change to secure a better future.

Disaster resilience strategies—like those developed in Dominica and Grenada—help countries incorporate climate risks and adaptation plans into their budgets and into their infrastructure investments.

In designing and building the architecture of the Caribbean’s future, the IMF is a committed partner.

Our Caribbean Technical Assistance Center in Bridgetown is a powerful symbol of that partnership, as it celebrates 20 years of delivering technical assistance and training to help governments across the region.

We also partner through financial support.

Barbados is an excellent example. With the help of an IMF-supported program since 2018, the government stabilized and was able to effectively deploy macroeconomic policies to counter the

pandemic and support vulnerable people.

Similarly, Jamaica and Grenada restored stability and reduced debt through IMF-supported programs before the pandemic, also better positioning them to respond to the COVID-19 crisis.

And the recent IMF-supported program to restore macroeconomic stability in Suriname is off to a strong start.

We’re also working to adapt our lending to meet countries’ evolving needs. The IMF’s new Resilience and Sustainability Trust is a prime example and is thanks, in no small part, to Prime Minister Mottley’s strong and consistent advocacy.

By providing affordable, longer-term financing, the RST is designed to help countries address structural challenges—like climate change and pandemics—and in turn build resilience to external shocks and ensure sustainable growth. All Caribbean IMF member countries are eligible for the RST, including countries in the region that have previously not had access to concessional IMF financing. It will also catalyze financing from international financial institutions and the private sector.

Mobilizing climate financing—and safeguarding debt sustainability affected by climate-related and natural disasters—requires a more comprehensive financial framework, including novel financing solutions. For instance, Belize recently agreed to specific marine protections in exchange for a reduction in its international debt to private bondholders—a “debt-for-nature swap” that also could be part of the solution for other countries.

Also, for countries at risk of large natural disasters, contract clauses that allow for delayed debt repayment when disaster strikes—such as those introduced by Barbados and Grenada during public debt restructurings—are a promising way to shore up financial resilience.

With natural beauty, the resilience and resourcefulness of its people—especially young people—and international partnerships, the Caribbean is well placed to build on its progress with an even better architecture for the future.

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

CNW Recognizes Caribbean American Heritage Month

By Kristalina Georgieva: Managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

2780 N. University Drive Sunrise, FL 33323 954.861.7272

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 –

A7

TALKUP

Jamaica is considering to withhold bail for persons held on murder or gun charges What are your thoughts?

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

KimonesCakeArtStudio.com

@KimonesCakeArtStudio

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

la section haitienne

Haiti's primary health care to be strengthened The World Bank's Board of Directors has approved additional financing of US$20 million for the Strengthening of Primary Health Care and Surveillance in Haiti Project (PROSYS), which aims to increase utilization of primary health care services in selected geographical areas, and strengthen disease surveillance capacity, especially cholera.

Access to quality healthcare is crucial to mitigating cyclical poverty, enhancing Haiti's human capital, and helping future generations reach their full potential,” said Laurent Msellati, World Bank country manager for Haiti.

“Haiti has been cholera-free for more than three years and thereby successfully eliminated it; however, more efforts are necessary in other essential health areas, as fewer than half of all children are fully immunized, and only a third of women deliver at health facilities.”

In the aftermath of August's 2021 earthquake, the World Bank quickly reallocated US$20 million from the PROSYS Project to cover approximately 65 percent of the total reconstruction costs in the health sector of US$31 million identified by the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA).

Those funds are supporting the rebuilding and rehabilitation of

Belize to ban charter flights from Haiti

Courtenay

Belize says it will not allow charter flights from Haiti to land in the country warning also it is prepared to reverse provisions of allowing Haitians to enter the country without a visa.

approximately 30 damaged health infrastructures in the three affected departments of Nippes, Sud, and Grand'Anse, directly benefiting more than 650,000 people. The reallocation of funds also provides equipment and supplies to the rehabilitated health facilities and supported the coordination of all stakeholders involved in the reconstruction activities in the sector.

This approved additional financing will address the gap caused by the reallocation of funds due to emergency and will provide financing for key activities such as strengthening primary health care referral networks, providing incentives to healthcare providers, and increasing their accountability through the result-based financed programme.

The additional financing will also

help maintain the government's nationwide surveillance and response capacity in the fight against infectious diseases such as diphtheria and measles.

The initial Strengthening Primary Health Care and Surveillance in Haiti Project was approved by the World Bank Board of Executive Directors on May 16, 2019, for a general amount of US$70 million.

Of this amount, US$55 million came from the International Development Association and US$15 million from the Global Financing Facility (GFF).

LOG ON TO FOR MORE

Foreign Minister Eamon Courtenay said the decision follows reports that “corrupt and abusive mafia …using chartered flights out of Haiti to smuggle Haitians.”

In recent times there have been several requests for chartered flights carrying Haitian visitors to arrive in Belize.

However, the authorities said those aircraft won't be allowed to touch down at the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) because many of those on board are arriving with one-way tickets.

They said, in addition, the Haitians do not have hotel arrangements and end up being smuggled out of the country en route to the United States.

“We have taken a decision this week, and I informed Cabinet yesterday that we have requested over the next six weeks for a number of flights to come as charter (from) Haiti [to] Belize, “Courtenay said.

“In collaboration with (the Department of) Civil Aviation, we are not going to allow them to land, and if we have to reverse the provision of Haitians coming into Belize without a visa, we are going to do so. Why? Because these people are abused by smugglers, they are trafficked by smugglers and we will not allow it to happen through Belize as long as we can stop it,” the Foreign Affairs Minister added.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 –

B1

COMMUNITY

Bob Marley's Three Little Birds musical in Miami-Dade theatre starting June 22 City Theatre and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County are proud to present Bob Marley's Three Little Birds.

This jammin' musical featuring the timeless music and lyrics of Bob Marley is based on the children's book (Every Little Thing) by his daughter Cedella Marley. Playing June 22-July 9 in the Arsht Center's intimate Carnival Studio Theater, Bob Marley's Three Little Birds features a live reggae band playing onstage and makes for an entertaining summer theater event for the whole family.

Bob Marley's Three Little Birds is a tale of peace and love. Mama says “breathe easy,” but Ziggy's afraid to leave the house. He's too busy worrying about tropical storms, evil spirits and steering clear of that sneaky, hair-snatching Duppy! But with the help of Doctor Bird and his feathered friends, Ziggy's reminded that “every little thing gonna be all right!”

“It's an honor to see my father's music connect with each new generation. My own

children loved singing 'Three Little Birds' when they were little. It was like their own little mantra, and that's what inspired me to write the book. Seeing this story come to life onstage

illustrated by my father's music gives it an added dimension. It's positive, uplifting vibe is something the world needs more of, especially these days,” shares Cedella Marley.

Tickets to Bob Marley's Three Little Birds and may be purchased at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 949-6722, or online at arshtcenter.org.

Bob Marley's Three Little Birds is directed

by Gladys Ramírez with musical direction by Jamie Hinckson and choreography by Sandra Portal-Andreu. The cast includes TJ Pursley (“Ziggy”), Noelle Nicholas (“Nansi”), Frankie Midnight (“Duppy”), Malik Archibald (“Doctor Bird”), Toddra Brunson (“Cedella”) and Deanna Gamboa (“Tacoomah”).

The Bob Marley's Three Little Birds creative team includes City Theatre Artistic Director Margaret M. Ledford; set designer Jodi Dellaventura; sound designer Steve Shapiro; costume designer Ellis Tillman; lighting designer Eric Nelson; properties designer Jameelah Bailey; and stage manager Izabella Orelle.

Bob Marley's Three Little Birds is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

Launched in 1996, City Theatre is one of Miami's oldest theater companies. They are nationally distinguished for being the only theater in the country producing ten-minute plays and musicals year-round and for all ages.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

LOCAL FL deputies disciplined after Bob Saget death investigation Two Florida deputies have each been suspended for about two weeks for leaking news about actor and comedian Bob Saget’s death before his family was alerted, officials said.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Monday that the two deputies were each suspended for 81 hours without pay.

“This case highlights how important it is to allow detectives in death investigations the time to ensure next of kin notifications are made before that information is disseminated to the public,” Orange County Sheriff John Mina said in a statement. “The deputies acknowledged their wrongdoing and were disciplined for their actions.”

One of the deputies told his brother about Saget’s death shortly after responding to the scene, and then the brother posted the information on social media, according to an investigation report. The other deputy, who was offduty and not involved in the death investigation, told his neighbor about Saget’s passing, officials said.

Saget, 65, was found by a hotel security officer at the Ritz Carlton in Orlando on Jan. 9 after he had failed to check out of the hotel and his family had asked for a well-being check. A medical examiner later determined that the “Full House” and “America’s Funniest Home Videos” star had died from an accidental blow to the head, likely from a backward fall.

Florida primary will be a scramble to fill House seats With about two months before Florida’s primary, the most exciting event to watch outside the Democratic nomination for governor is the mad scramble to fill congressional seats.

The departure of four U.S. House members, Florida’s acquisition of a new seat in Congress and a redistricting process that has shaken up the state’s political maps have combined to create interesting races in the August 23 primaries.

Qualifying for Florida’s ballot ended Friday, and while there’s a competitive primary between U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist and Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried for the Democratic nomination to face Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, congressional races will get a lot of attention as Republicans try to regain power in the U.S. House.

One of the most crowded primaries is for an Orlando-area district that favors Democrats.

Former U.S. Reps. Alan Grayson and Corrine Brown are among ten candidates. Brown of Jacksonville recently served two years in prison in a charity and tax fraud case. The conviction was thrown out and she pleaded guilty to a single tax fraud count to avoid a second trial.

Grayson, known for his inflammatory remarks, was first elected to Congress in 2006, but lost reelection. He returned to Congress in 2011 for two more terms before giving up the seat for an unsuccessful Senate bid. Two years later, he lost an attempt to be elected to the U.S. House again.

The seat is open because Democratic U.S. Rep. Val Demings is running for the Senate.

Among other Democrats on the ballot are state Sen. Randolph Bracy. There are six Republicans seeking the nomination.

In a district between Tampa and Lakeland that should favor the GOP, five Republicans are seeking the nomination, including former Secretary of State Laurel Lee, state Sen. Kelli Stargel and state Rep. Jackie Toledo. Five

Democrats are seeking the nomination.

Several Democrats were hoping to replace Crist in a St. Petersburg seat, but the district was redrawn to favor Republicans, and all dropped out other than Eric Lynn, who served as an adviser to secretaries of defense during President Barack Obama’s administration.

On the Republican side, Anna Paulina Luna, and Amanda Makki — who came in first and second respectively in the 2020 GOP primary, lead a field of five.

U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick will face a primary to keep the South Florida seat she won in a January special election. Former Broward County Mayor Dale Holness, who lost last year’s primary to Cherfilus-McCormick by five votes, is on the ballot, as is state Rep. Anika Omphroy.

In a redrawn district extending from the Orlando area to the Atlantic coast, eight Republicans, including state Rep. Anthony Sabatini, are seeking the nomination. Four Democrats are also facing off in the district that

leans Republican. The seat is open because Democratic Rep. Stephanie Murphy is leaving office.

Republican U.S. Rep. Dan Webster, who is in his sixth term, is facing a primary challenge from far-right activist Laura Loomer in a central Florida district. Two years ago, Loomer easily beat five other Republicans to face Democratic U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel in a Palm Beach area district. Loomer lost the general election by 20 percentage points.

Jared Moskowitz, a former state representative who has served as the state’s emergency management director under DeSantis, is the best known of six Democrats hoping to replace retiring Rep. Ted Deutch in a heavily Democratic South Florida district. Six Republicans are also on the primary ballot.

In legislative races, seven candidates for Senate and 28 House candidates are already guaranteed victory with no primary or general election opponents.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 –

B3

FEATURE

Caribbean Cuisine

You can’t believe everything you read!

Don’t believe everything you read.

Many newspapers claim inated readership and circulation numbers.

Choose the National Weekly, audited by the Circulation Verication Council to ensure that your advertising dollars reach your desired audience.

Tel: 954.937.6618

www.cnweeklynews.com

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

LEISURE Across

Down

CONTINUATIONS

Slow growth

from A1

latter. The crisis prompted by the coronavirus disease (COVID19) pandemic affected female employment more significantly, marking a setback equivalent to more than 18 years in the levels of women’s labor force participation.

“The slow recovery in the activities that account for a larger share of female employment and the larger burden that women shoulder in caring for the sick, children, and older people help explain this notable difference in the dynamics of total participation rates,” it added.

The report noted that the health crisis stemming from COVID-19 has had “important effects” on wage trends in the region. It said the impact of the recent evolution of inflation has been most clearly reflected in real minimum wages, “the purchasing power of which declined in 2021”.

In addition, the average real wages in the region in 2021 were 6.8 percent below pre-pandemic levels, “lagging more than economic activity and employment vis-à-vis that marker,” warning this could worsen in 2022 when even steeper rises in inflation are expected.

“It is vital to deploy institutional instruments, such as collective bargaining and minimum wages, to enable discussion of wage adjustments at the level of productive units and branches of activity, to meet the needs of both workers and companies,” says Mario Cimoli, ECLAC’s acting executive secretary, and Claudia Coenjaerts, the ILO’s regional director for Latin America and the Caribbean, in the document’s foreword.

They wrote that policies to facilitate the insertion of wage earners – such as hiring subsidies – that are focused on the most vulnerable groups will not only contribute to a faster recovery in their employment levels but will also “prevent wage conditions from becoming more precarious than before the pandemic.”

According to the report, in 2022, the pace of job creation is expected to decelerate, adding that “it is foreseen that progress in the vaccination process, fewer restrictions on movement, and the reopening of schools will fuel a recovery in participation levels, especially among women.

Kudos!

from A1

The panelists for the session included the CMO along with Dr. Gary Rhule, Jamaica Diaspora North East co-chair; Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, state minister in the Ministry of Health and Wellness; Claudette Powell, chair of the Jamaica Diaspora Northeast USA Health Sector, and several other members of the diaspora who joined virtually.

While speaking on the recent developments in the island’s healthcare sector, the CMO noted that members of the Jamaican diaspora continue play a significant part in the sector’s growth.

“We are very happy to have the diaspora on board. You have been on board for a long time, but I think that at this time, there is even more opportunity for engagement. When we look at it over the last two years with COVID, the diaspora contributed over 300 million in terms of equipment and supplies and so we recognize that you are a huge force that we need to join with and to ensure that we’re integrated in our approach,” Dr Bisasor-McKenzie said.

Health and Wellness Minister, Dr Christopher Tufton also thanked the diaspora members for their assistance in helping Jamaica get through one of the harshest health crises the world has ever seen.

“Approximately six percent of our budget has been contributions or donations in one way or the other – whether through personnel and expertise or gifts in equipment –

When we look at it over the last two years with COVID, the diaspora contributed over 300 million in terms of equipment and supplies and so we recognize that you are a huge force that we need to join with and to ensure that we’re integrated in our approach.

– Bisasor-McKenzie

coming from the diaspora,” Minister Tufton noted.

The minister also noted that the government has a special diaspora unit in the Ministry of Health and Wellness to facilitate contributions and donations.

The CMO also urged continued collaboration between Jamaica and members of the diaspora and said there are other areas in which they can assist the island’s healthcare sector such as telemedicine and the establishment of a database to allow for the re-engagement of medical professionals in the diaspora.

Dr Bisasor-McKenzie said she recognizes that many medical personnel including nurses who migrate from Jamaica have a yearning to return to the island and give service.

Claudette Powell, who is also a registered professional nurse, echoed the CMO’s sentiments and also urged members of the diaspora to be alert for opportunities to assist Jamaica.

“The diaspora is willing and able to assist positively to transform the health and wellness services in Jamaica if we are recognized as stakeholders and allowed to share our expertise. And I want to implore the members of the global diaspora to look for opportunities for Jamaica,” Powell said.

The CMO added that the government is looking to transform the healthcare sector in the next few years and will actively engage members of the diaspora for assistance, especially in the area of expertise.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 –

C1

ENTERTAINMENT

Spice Receives International Music Ambassador Award

Jamaica Festival Song Competition Back On

The Queen of dancehall, Spice continues to reign supreme after being the first Jamaican to be honored by the New York City Council's Black, Latino and Asian Caucus and the Power and Music Committee.

Jamaica’s Minister of Entertainment, Gender and Sports, Olivia Grange has announced that the Jamaica Festival Song Competition is back on.

The Minister made the announcement during the opening session of the Jamaica 60th Diaspora Conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade on Tuesday, June 14.

The Minister added that she will be working with players in the entertainment industry for the competition.

“I have been networking with the entertainment industry to get good producers, songwriters and performers on board, so we can come up with ten songs.”

Earlier this month, Minister Grange announced that the competition was omitted from this year's Jamaica Festival package due to unsatisfactory entries.

The minister in her speech emphasized the importance of this year's competition and reassured the Jamaican diaspora that the competition will have quality entries.

“So, I want to say to the diaspora and to the Jamaicans here at home that we will have a festival song competition and we will have quality entries.”

She added that the competition is in addition to the Jamaica 60 commemorative album which will feature artistes including Shaggy, Koffee, Freddie McGregor and Marcia Griffiths.

Entries for the competition will reopen for one week from June 14 to 21 to select seven new songs.

These will be added to the three songs already identified by the selection panel from the previous 123 entries.

A panel that was established to select the finalists for this year's competition, advised that it was unable to choose ten suitable songs from among the entries despite extending the entry period.

The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) will be ramping up the Jamaica Festival Competition workshops over the next 12 months to ensure that there are improved entries for next year.

Spice, whose given name is Grace Hamilton, was awarded for her outstanding achievements in music. Awarded 'International Music Ambassador' she was among notable honorees such as Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes, Hip Hop pioneer Doug E Fresh, and legendary singer Patty LaBelle just to name a few.

The dancehall star took to Instagram to share the moment with her followers.

“Let it be known that today, June 15th, the New York City Council's Black Latino and Asian Caucus honored me with the International Music Ambassador Award for my outstanding achievements in music.

Thank you Power Music Awards I'm humbled. From homeless to greatness.”

– Spice A number of fans took to social media to show their support for the dancehall queen. Among them were hip hop artiste Busta Rhymes and dancehall deejay Demarco, Kemar Highcon and Charly Blacks.

“Congrats and bless up boss lady!!!” Busta Rhymes commented.

Demarco added “Well deserved mumma. Most hardworking entertainer in the business.”

Meanwhile, Charly Blacks stated “Congratulations as always sis to which Spice responded, thank you my bro. You're always so happy for me, I love you.”

This is Spice's second honorary award for the year. The dancehall artiste was honored by TV One's Black Women in Media Awards (BWIM), just days before the 64th Annual Grammys. The BWIM committee honors women of color who have made significant contributions to communications, media, entertainment, publishing, TV and film, literature, technology and much more.

Through the years, Spice has been a trail-blazing force in the dancehall industry and as the years go by her accolades continue to

grow.

The dancehall queen is the first female hardcore dancehall artiste to be nominated in that category. She was nominated for her debut album 'Ten', produced by dancehall legend Shaggy. Even though Spice did not win, she was very grateful to be nominated and thanked her fans for their continued support.

She is also the CEO of Graci Noir, a loungewear and clothing brand as well as Faces and Laces, her luxury hair and beauty brand.

Spice is also the brand ambassador for the official drink of dancehall, Magnum Tonic Wine, where she has her own talk show called Magnum Spice It Up, which explores topics relevant to the dancehall community and connects her to her fans.

C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

MARKETPLACE BANKRUPTCY - FORECLOSURE DEFENSE

PROBATE / INHERITANCE LAW EDUCATION LAW MEDIATION 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.

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

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 –

C3

SPORTS TRACK & FIELD

Beautifully done!

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce pleased with execution of 100m

By Ian Burnett

Ace Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann FraserPryce has expressed satisfaction with her execution in the 100m victory at the Paris Diamond League meeting on Saturday.

The 35-year-old ran a blistering 10.67 seconds inside the Charlety Stadium to equal her world-leading time done in Nairoba, Kenya, in May. The two-time World Champion over 100m has thus exposed her readiness for next month's World Athletic Championships slated for Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

But before that she could line up as a participant at this week's Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association National Championships at Kingston's National Stadium.

“I feel very good, technically it was very good. The goal is always to be on top technically, then the lap times follow,”

said Fraser-Pryce.

The twice Olympic Games 100m gold medalist was out of the blocks with her trademark bullet start as she held her head down throughout what appeared an extended acceleration phase, and by the time she transitioned into the drive phase with her body upright and eyes focused ahead, she separated herself from the field to win in commanding fashion by better than two metres.

“Physically, I was good too. Running 10.6, only a few sprinters can achieve that,” she added.

Well behind in second place was Britain's Daryll Neita, who clocked 10.99 seconds, with Marie-Josee Ta Lou of Ivory Coast third in 11.01 seconds.

By virtue of being the defending 100m champion, Fraser-Pryce has already qualified for the 100m at the World Championships.

Still, she is yet to determine if she will contest the sprint double at the National Championships.

“We'll see if I'm ready to do it physically and mentally,” she had said on Friday.

CRICKET

SOECCER

Roach targets 300-wicket club in another few years West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach anticipates continuing at international cricket for a few years yet and as such he’s targeting the 300-wicket club.

Having gained experience with a number of trophy-winning teams, Reggae Girl Drew Spence plans to bring a winning mentality to Tottenham.

He credited “blood sweat and tears” for the achievement of equalling the legendary Michael Holding on 249 wickets, during the opening Test against Bangladesh which finished on Sunday.

The 33-year-old, who was adjudged Man-of-theMatch for his seven-wicket haul in the contest at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, said he anticipated continuing at international level for a few years yet, giving him enough time to reach the cherished landmark.

Courtney Walsh (519), Sir Curtly Ambrose (405), Malcolm Marshall (376) and Lance Gibbs (309) are the only West Indies bowlers to have passed 300 wickets.

I want to reach 300 Test wickets. I have 249 now but I still have two to three more years in me. I am proud because of how I started.

Obviously I came into the team under very difficult conditions and then obviously to build a career and get amongst the greats, is always a good feeling.” – Roach “I am always one for stats. I love my stats. I always look at my stats – every night. Even if I’m not playing, I still look at my stats so it’s good to be among the greats. It’s good to be up there with all the fantastic people in West Indies cricket.”

Roach overtook the peerless Sir Gary Sobers (235) during the England series last March and now lies joint sixth on the all-time West Indies list next to Holding.

His next target before the 300 club will be Joel Garner who is fifth on the all-time list with 259 wickets.

Roach is the only active West Indies player with more than 200 Test wickets, the next best being Shannon Gabriel with 161.

On last Saturday’s third day of the opening Test, Roach picked up his 10th five-wicket haul in Tests and now averages 26 from a 72-match career.

“It’s been commitment and hard work and I’ve had to improve on my skill. I lost pace due to injury so I had to

Reggae Girl Drew Spence hopes to bring winning mentality to Tottenham

improve on my skill,” he said.

“It’s been a lot of hard work, a lot of consistent bowling obviously to get where you want to be in your career. It’s been blood, sweat and tears – blood, sweat and tears – and it’s actually good to go out there and see the results.”

Roach has taken 127 wickets at an average of 23 from 35 Tests over the last 5 ½ years, leaving him among the elite in the world.

However, during that period West Indies have also struggled, winning only 15 of 44 matches, to remain in the bottom half of the International Cricket Council rankings.

Roach said a laser-like focus on his role had kept his motivation high during what had been a difficult period for the Caribbean side.

“You have to focus on your role – that’s me,” Roach explained. “Obviously I would’ve loved to have won more games but my role is to be the leading bowler, obviously go out there and show fight and put the team in a position to win.

“That’s what I focus on: I just go out there, perform for the team, do whatever the skipper asks, do whatever the team ask, and keep coming [in].”

Spence joined English Women’s Super League (WSL) side Tottenham from neighbours Chelsea on a two-year deal with the option of an extra year.

The experienced 29-year-old midfielder, who left Chelsea last month, was the club’s longest-serving player, netting 50 goals during 238 appearances.

Spence, who made her senior debut for the Blues in 2009, has won five league titles, three FA Cups, two Continental Cups and one Community Shield.

“It’s a new chapter for me,” said London-born Spence, who last year switched allegiances from England and earned her first cap for Jamaica.

Tottenham finished fifth in the WSL last season.

“I’ve seen how much the team has progressed over the past few seasons, challenging teams at the top, so it’s the right move for me and somewhere where I can bring all my experience,” said Spence, whose 34-year-old brother Lewis plays in midfield for Isthmian League Premier Division side Hornchurch.

“I know how to win titles, I know what it’s like to be in a dressing room where there is a winning mentality every day and hopefully that’s something I can bring here.”

Spurs’ head coach Rehanne Skinner added: “Drew is a fantastic addition to the squad we are building. Her achievements in the WSL have been significant, having been involved in the league since the start in 2011.

“She brings a huge amount of experience and understanding of winning, having been a part of 11 trophywinning teams.

“As a midfielder, Drew is creative, tenacious and capable of unlocking defences in a number of ways, and will be an asset to the team.”

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 23 – JUN 29, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T