Caribbean National Weekly December 7, 2023

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2023

BORDER

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Should Venezuela proceed to act in this reckless and adventurous manner, the region will have to respond,” he said.

“And that is what we're building.

We're building a regional response.”

Irfaan Ali

Venezuela

CLASH Guyana preparing to defend itself against Venezuela over disputed Essequibo region

by Sheri-Kae McLeod Guyana's President Irfaan Ali told The Associated Press that his country is taking every necessary step to protect itself from Venezuela, which has ordered its state-owned companies to explore and exploit oil and minerals in Guyana's vast Essequibo region that it considers its own.

When asked on Wednesday if he has requested military assistance, Ali said his government is reaching out to allies and regional partners, some of which Guyana has defense agreements with, to protect the Essequibo region, which makes up two-thirds of the country.

“We take this threat very seriously, and we have initiated a number of precautionary measures to ensure the peace and stability of this region,” Ali said in a brief phone interview.

He noted that Guyana's Defense Force also is speaking with counterparts in other countries but didn't say which ones.

“Should Venezuela proceed to act in this reckless and adventurous manner, the region will have to respond,” he said. “And that is what we're building. We're building a regional response.”

Venezuela's president orders oil drilling in Guyana region

The Essequibo region is a disputed territory west of the Essequibo River that is administered and controlled by Guyana but claimed by Venezuela. The boundary dispute was inherited from the colonial powers (Spain in the case of Venezuela, and the Netherlands and the United Kingdom in the case of Guyana) and has been complicated by the independence of Guyana from the United Kingdom in 1966.

Ali spoke a day after Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Monday said he would “immediately” grant operating licenses for exploration and exploitation in Essequibo and ordered the creation of local subsidiaries of Venezuelan public companies, including oil giant PDVSA and mining continues on B2 – Border Clash

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SPORTS

Jamaican-Canadian Marva Wisdom receives prestigious Order of Ontario A3

SSL fraud exceeds US$30 million, says Jamaican FID A4

Empowering communities to combat HIV A8

Bailey deals blow to Manchester City’s title aspirations C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE 2 Chief Dr. Nike DaviesOkundaye from Nigeria at AfriKin Art Fair VIP Opening in North Miami – Contributed

(From L-R) CEO of Splendor Realty, Sharon McLennon; Broward County Commissioner, Hazelle Rogers and CEO of Housing Founda on of America, Inc. Chester Bishop at Splendor Realty’s annual White Christmas party held in Planta on Acres – photo by Uriah Benne

Ar st Musah Swallah from Ghana sharing his work of the icons Mar n Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X on pain ngs on wine corks on exhibit at AfriKin Art Fair – Contributed

Sandy took me out for the lens at Splendor Realty’s annual White Christmas party. – photo

by Uriah Benne

Barbados Tourist Department provided amazing food from Chef Creig and Mixologist Alexander DaVinci served up refreshing Bajan rum for all a endees to enjoy. – Contributed

(from L-R) Trisha Soman, Tra Mulrey with Sharon Mclennon – photo by Uriah Benne

(from L-R) Steve Higgins, Marie and John T Hodgson hanging out at the Splendor Realty Party – photo by Uriah Benne

Zest Collec ve Jazz Performance by Deja Darbonne at AfriKin Art Fair VIp Opening. – Contributed

North Miami Councilman Sco Galvin, Chief Dr. Nike Davies-Okundaye from Nigeria, North Miami City Clerk Vanessa James, Ar st Shayee Awoyomi from Nigeria – Contributed

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 –

A3

NEWSMAKER

Jamaican-Canadian Marva Wisdom receives prestigious Order of Ontario “I’m just so honored and grateful. There are so many wonderful people trying to make the world a better place and to be recognized as one of them, I am just honored,” – Marva Wisdom

Marva Wisdom, a prominent equity and leadership practitioner, has been appointed to the prestigious Order of Ontario, the highest honor bestowed by the province for exceptional achievement.

Her acknowledgment of the countless individuals who supported her journey underscores the importance of community in her success.

Wisdom joins the esteemed list of 26 new appointees for the year 2022, as announced by the outgoing Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario, Elizabeth Dowdeswell.

The new lieutenant governor, Edith Dumont, bestowed the Order of Ontario to the new appointees in a ceremony on November 27.

The Order of Ontario is a recognition of exceptional leaders from diverse fields whose influence and enduring legacy have contributed significantly to the growth of the province, the country, and the world, according to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.

Dowdeswell expressed her pride in recognizing the 2022 appointees, describing them as outstanding Ontarians who have excelled in various disciplines, including arts, science, education, sports, and human rights.

She emphasized how these individuals, by reflecting the best of Ontario, inspire greatness in others.

Wisdom, originally from Red Ground, St. Catherine, Jamaica, moved to Canada in 1974 with her father and siblings to reunite with her mother, who had previously migrated to Canada as a domestic worker during Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau’s tenure.

Dunkley Wisdom attributes her Jamaican roots and

Wisdom

her parents’ dedication to service as significant influences on her life and work. She expressed her gratitude to her parents and siblings for their unwavering support.

Wisdom’s commitment to community service led her to become deeply involved in the Black Experience Project (BEP), where she engaged in extensive community outreach to ensure the study accurately reflected the community’s lived experiences.

The BEP, initiated by the Environics Institute in 2011 and released in 2017, aimed to

capture the perspectives of Black Canadians and their contributions to the nation.

Inspired by a presentation by Michael Adams, president of the institute, highlighting the contributions of immigrants to Canada, Wisdom’s dedication to the study has been instrumental in its widespread adoption by all levels of government—federal, provincial, and municipal. Her previous role as vice chair of the Canadian Centre for Diversity further exemplifies her commitment to promoting inclusivity and understanding within Canadian society.

Wisdom, an alumna of Centennial College and the University of Guelph, is not only the founder and former president of the Guelph Black Heritage Society but also a senior fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto.

She co-authored the book “Collecting Courage: Joy, Pain, Freedom, Love: Anti-Black Racism in the Charitable Sector,” shedding light on critical issues within the sector.

Ontario residents are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals for the 2024 Order of Ontario, with a nomination deadline of March 31, 2024.

Appointments to the Order are made based on the merit of accomplishments, with nominees put forward by members of the public.

Since its establishment in 1986, the Order of Ontario has recognized 849 individuals for their outstanding contributions to the province.

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A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN

SSL fraud exceeds US$30M, says Jamaican FID The multimillion-dollar fraud at Jamaican investment firm Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) has exceeded some US $30 million and impacted over 200 accounts.

The Financial Investigations Division, which is involved in the investigation, said inquiries extend beyond Jamaica.

“Evidence now shows that there are over 200 affected accounts and a staggering amount exceeding US$30 million attributed to fraud and other irregularities related to clients’ funds.

Despite numerous appeals and direct means of communication, the Financial Investigations Division (FID) has only received 23 official statements from affected individuals and entities,” FID said in a statement.

Alleged fraudster remanded until 2024 So far, only one person, Jean Ann Panton, has been charged in relation to the fraud. She appeared again in court today,

SSL Headquarters, Jamaica

and was remanded until May 27, 2024.

Panton was indicted for three counts of larceny as a servant, three counts of falsification of accounts, five counts of forgery, five counts of uttering forged documents, three counts of engaging in transactions involving stolen property, and three counts of breaches of the Cybercrimes Act.

Panton is accused of fleecing roughly $3 billion from more than 30 SSL clients over a 10-year period.

Olympian Usain Bolt and a sitting Member of Parliament, whose name is being withheld, are among the more than 30 people whose investments at SSL are believed to be among those fleeced by a wealth advisor.

American pastor accused of exploiting children in Cuba gets jail sentence A pastor in Wisconsin, United States, who stands accused of sexually exploiting children from Venezuela and Cuba, on Monday received a federal prison sentence of 15 years.

He is Cory Herthel, who served at the SeventhDay Adventist Church in Green Bay. The 40-year-old pled guilty in August to one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a child.

According to court documents, reports indicate that the church reached out to the FBI in May, informing them that they had received information about Herthel engaging in the exchange of sexually explicit videos with a 15-year-old in Venezuela.

As per prosecutors and court records, Herthel admitted to encountering the child, who was begging on the streets in Ecuador, and maintained communication with the child even after the child and his mother returned to their home country of Venezuela. During this correspondence, they exchanged sexually explicit videos.

Furthermore, investigators also learned that Herthel was allegedly exchanging sexually explicit videos with two children in Cuba.

It is also reported that he was in a sexual relationship with one of the children and was sending money to the other.

continues on A5 – SSL Fraud

Barbados’ PM Mia Mottley calls for methane regulation at COP28 In an address at the COP28 climate talks in Dubai, the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, emphasized the urgent need for global action on methane regulation.

Highlighting the critical state of climate change, she described it as a potential “death sentence” for many regions.

Mottley pointed out the absence of a significant global agreement on methane, a greenhouse gas with a near-term impact far

more damaging than CO2.

She stressed the importance of moving from regulatory discussions to concrete actions to control methane emissions effectively.

The Prime Minister directed attention towards the oil and gas industries, urging them to take a more proactive role in reducing emissions.

She advocated for stringent regulations and compliance to minimize the adverse effects of

methane, contributing to rising global temperatures.

While Mottley recognized the progress made, particularly the establishment of a loss and damage fund, she called for adequate funding of these initiatives.

She highlighted the cost-effectiveness of preemptive measures in disaster management, noting the significant savings in both monetary terms and human lives.

A major accomplishment at this year’s UN climate conference was the finalization of a fund designed to support countries grappling with climate change-induced loss and damage.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in global climate efforts.

Several countries, including Germany and the United Arab Emirates, have already contributed to the fund, each pledging $100 million.

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A5

CARIBBEAN

Paulwell-Patterson accused murderer remanded until March 2024 Leoda Bradshaw and Roland Balfour, the other two people accused in the murder of Jamaican Parliamentarian Phillip Paulwell’s 10-month-old daughter and her mother, have been remanded until early 2024.

On Friday, a Supreme Court Judge ordered the two to return to court on March 6, 2024.

During Friday’s hearing, the court was informed that the prosecution’s case file is incomplete. According to reports, the forensic material, forensic certificate and statements from investigators were not on file. When the two make their next court appearance, it is expected that all outstanding documents will be available and disclosed to the defense team.

Judge Vinnette Graham-Allen ordered that on or before January 31, the statements from investigators should be submitted. The forensic material and certificate were ordered to be submitted on or before February 29.

Bradshaw and Balfour were charged with murder and other offences in relation to the abduction and killing of 27-year-old Toshyna

Bradshaw

Patterson and her 10-month-old daughter Sarayah Paulwell in September.

Bradshaw, who shares a child with Phillip Paulwell, has been charged with two counts of conspiracy to murder, two counts of conspiracy

Tragic shark attack claims life of US woman in The Bahamas A woman hailing from the United States tragically lost her life in The Bahamas due to a shark attack.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force, in a statement to Eyewitness News Bahamas, revealed that the incident occurred shortly after 11:15 am on Monday.

Reports are that the victim, aged in her 40s was visiting from Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and was accompanied by a male relative.

Both of whom were paddleboarding at the rear of a resort located in western New Providence.

Reports are that their location was

approximately three-quarters of a mile away from the safety of the shoreline when disaster struck.

It is reported that a lifeguard who was on duty at the time took a rescue boat to retrieve the victim along with the male relative to bring them to safety.

Reports are that CPR was administered to the victim, however, she suffered serious injuries to the right side of her body, including the right hip region and also her right upper limb.

Emergency medical services also responded to the scene and assessed the victim. However, they revealed that she showed no signs of life.

to kidnapping, two counts of kidnapping, and two counts of murder. Balfour, the cousin of Bradshaw, faces similar charges.

The other two men that were implicated in the double murder were sentenced last month.

Richard Brown, a 31-year-old graphic artist from Kingston, was sentenced to 30 years in prison on each of the two counts of murder for the killing of baby Sarayah and her mother.

He was also sentenced to one year and 10 months in prison on each of the two counts of kidnapping of the mother and daughter. The sentences are to be served concurrently and he has been ordered to serve 20 years before he is eligible for parole.

Brown’s accomplice, Roshane Miller, was sentenced to serve seven years and 10 months for each count of accessory before the fact to murder; two years and 10 months for each count of conspiracy to kidnap; and one year and 10 months for misprision of felony. The sentences are to run concurrently.

SSL Fraud

from A4

FID also highlughted the complexity of the investigation, as it involves a comprehensive examination of the company’s activities dating back to the inception of SSL in 2006.

“The meticulous inquiry requires a thorough analysis of the entire time period, scrutinising the flow of investor funds.

This process, by its nature, is timeconsuming and deliberate,” they said.

So far, the investigation has revealed criminal breaches involving the company and people associated with it.

“Presently, the findings indicate potential criminal and regulatory breaches involving both the company itself and individuals associated with it. It should be noted that these matters are distinct from the ongoing court case, which centers on a prolonged fraud affecting numerous investors,” FID said.

“The investigative process is far advanced and we are now at the point where a file is currently with the prosecutors who are reviewing the evidential material with a view to discerning the possible charges,” the FID added.

Dominica: Two American nationals charged in connection with murder of hoteliers Two American nationals are charged for the murders of Canadian-born hoteliers in Dominica.

The charred remains of Daniel Langlois and Dominique Marchard were found in a burnt-out vehicle last Friday.

The accused are Jonathan Lehrer, a 57year-old and owner of the historic Bois Cutlette estate in Dominica, and Robert Snider from Pittsburg, Florida.

The accused are set to make their first appearance in a magistrate’s court on Wednesday.

Their arraignment is scheduled before a Roseau Magistrate, where the grave charge of “murder” will be formally leveled against

them.

Lehrer, along with his wife and Snider, along with a Dominican national, had initially cooperated with the authorities in their inquiry into the murders.

Reports are that the victims, Langlois and Marchand, were known for their ownership and operation of the Coulibri Ridge Resort.

Law enforcement agencies revealed that the two hoteliers fell victim to an ambush by a hired hitman, who killed them before setting their vehicle ablaze.

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM

EDITORIAL

Does Jamaica Need a Ministry to Address Violence?

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E

arlier this year, Jamaica's Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, suggested in the nation's parliament that there may be a need for a new ministry to address the increasing violence within the country. More recently, at the annual conference of the Jamaica Labor Party (JLP), of which Holness is the leader, he announced that he has commissioned a study to determine whether to establish such a ministry, possibly called the Ministry of Peace and Human Development, though the final name remains undecided.

Undoubtedly, the surge in violence and violent crime in Jamaica has had a profoundly negative impact on the nation and its citizens.

As Holness mentioned in his JLP conference speech, although Jamaica isn't at war, the annual murder rate of 55 per 100,000 persons exceeds the death rate of several countries currently at war. Moreover, in addition to the high cost in human lives, there is a significant economic burden, with reports indicating that violence and violent crime cost the country approximately J$120 billion annually. This is money that could be better utilized for muchneeded social and training projects, particularly targeted at the youth.

There is widespread agreement with Holness that there is far too much conflict among Jamaicans in nearly every aspect of society. The nation urgently requires the implementation of organized conflict resolution within families, between neighbors, romantic partners, employers and employees, among workers, teachers and students, students themselves, customers and customer service personnel, and members of political organizations.

But what does Holness truly mean by suggesting the need for a ministry dedicated to addressing violence in the country? An analysis of crime in Jamaica reveals two primary categories of violence: violent crime and

domestic violence, in addition to violence related to the inability to peacefully resolve conflicts.

Notably, while Holness has proposed the need for a new ministry to address violence in Jamaica, he did not mention the need for a separate ministry to focus solely on violent crime. Is this omission intentional, or does he intend for the existing Ministry of National Security to continue addressing violent crime?

Violent crime should remain within the purview of this ministry.

The proposal of a new ministry to deal with violence in Jamaica has left some members of the diaspora wondering why the Prime Minister needs a ministry other than the Ministry of National Security to cope with violent crime, as if the latter is incapable of handling it. Interestingly, Holness never mentioned violent crime, leading to the assumption that the new ministry wouldn't deal with violent crime.

However, there is a pressing need for the Holness administration to urgently reorganize and enhance the effectiveness of the Ministry of National Security and the law enforcement operations falling under its purview. The ministry has not been as effective in addressing violent crime as it should be. There is a growing consensus within Jamaica and the diaspora that, given the seriousness of violent crime as a national problem, the Prime Minister should also assume the portfolio of Minister of National Security. This would signify his commitment to addressing the issue.

Regarding domestic violence and conflict resolution, the creation of a new ministry may indeed be worthwhile. Earlier this week, Betty Ann Blaine, the founder of the Jamaican organization Hear The Children's Cry, suggested establishing a Ministry of Family Affairs to address the issue of violence in the country. There is agreement with Blaine's

assertion that "The state of the family in our society is the root of the problem of our current untenable levels of crime and violence."

Several factors, including the absence of a father figure, single mothers working away from home, frustration stemming from poverty, unfaithfulness, and peer pressure, have contributed to serious violence within families.

This violence has spilled over from the family home into schools, the workplace, social gatherings, and throughout communities.

A dedicated ministry could focus on studying the root causes of this violence, developing and implementing remedial measures in homes, schools, workplaces, and the general community, with a strong emphasis on conflict resolution and addressing the potential for deadly violence in intimate domestic relationships.

Blaine also aptly commented, "Issues such as domestic violence, parental migration, inappropriate and often violent disciplinary measures, and disgracefully underserved innercity and deep rural communities, all need to be corrected through a well-coordinated initiative that receives the highest priority."

Something or multiple factors are undeniably contributing to violence taking root in some Jamaican families and spreading rapidly throughout numerous communities.

This issue requires urgent attention, whether through a new ministry or the reorganization of an existing one, with the assistance of various community sectors. Addressing this problem of violence will necessitate not only a new or restructured ministry but also the collective efforts of the entire nation.

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 –

A7

HAITI

Haitian coup leader repatriated amidst Haiti’s gang crisis The United States on Thursday repatriated Guy Philippe, a man deeply intertwined with Haiti’s tumultuous history.

He served six years in a U.S. federal prison for money laundering.

Jean Joseph Louicher, Philippe’s attorney, confirmed his client’s arrival in Haiti.

Reports are that 55-year-old Philippe, a notorious coup leader, played a pivotal role in the 2004 rebellion against the thenPresident Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

According to reports, a professor at the University of Virginia with expertise in Haitian politics, Robert Fatton shared that Philippe wielded significant influence through his extensive connections with law enforcement, political figures, and the business elite.

Reports are that Philippe served as the police chief of Cap-Haitien, a northern coastal city. However, his life took a different turn after he was accused of orchestrating attacks on police stations and other targets while in exile in the Dominican Republic.

In 2004, Philippe returned to Haiti and led a group of rebels in capturing CapHaitien.

His involvement in the uprising ultimately led to the ouster of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, cementing his place in the annals of Haitian history.

The story of Guy Philippe took another unexpected twist when he was arrested in Haiti in January 2017 while participating in

a live radio talk show.

Haiti has been making international headlines as it is besieged by powerful gangs that have thrived in the wake of President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination in July 2021.

Philippe’s return has ignited concerns that he may exacerbate the turmoil in the Caribbean nation which is already facing adverse challenges due to political instability and an alarming surge in killings.

Former DEA informant pleads guilty to role in killing Haitian president Joseph Vincent, a former informant for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), pleaded guilty on Tuesday, marking the fourth individual to admit involvement in the 2021 assassination of Haiti's president, which resulted in a destabilizing power vacuum.

Hailing from a Haitian-American background, Vincent is part of a group of 11 defendants, including Colombian ex-soldiers and businessmen. They are accused of providing financial support and weapons and executing a nighttime attack on President Jovenel Moise's residence in Port-au-Prince.

Vincent, along with another Haitian-American, James Solages, was apprehended shortly after the assault and initially claimed to be hired as interpreters by the conspirators.

During the attack, the assailants posed as DEA agents, although the DEA later clarified that neither Vincent nor Solages were acting on behalf of the agency.

In a court filing, signed by Vincent, he admitted to offering material support and services to the plot. This included providing advice on the political landscape and holding meetings with influential community leaders.

During these encounters, Vincent often wore a U.S. State Department pin, creating an impression that he was associated with the U.S. government.

The filing revealed that Vincent traveled to Haiti in early 2021 to support the bid of Floridabased pastor Christian Sanon, a co-defendant, to replace President Moise. On the night of the attack, Vincent was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Solages to the president's residence.

Vincent's guilty plea follows similar admissions by former Haitian Senator Joseph Joel John, retired Colombian army colonel German Rivera, and Haitian-Chilean citizen Rodolphe Jaar. Jaar and Rivera have been sentenced to life in prison, while John's sentencing is scheduled for December 19.

Vincent, facing a potential life sentence, will learn his fate on February 9.

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM

HEALTH & WELLNESS

W o r l d A I D S D ay 2 0 2 3

Empowering communities to combat HIV On World AIDS Day, celebrated annually on December 1st, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) underscored the critical importance of communities and civil society in delivering vital HIV-related services, including testing, prevention, and treatment, across Latin America and the Caribbean.

This year, the theme for World AIDS Day is “Let communities lead,” highlighting the central role that organizations led by individuals disproportionately affected by HIV play in

Cabal

We are on the home stretch “ when it comes to ending AIDS

as a public health challenge, but we will only achieve this goal if we empower the most affected communities that are being left behind.” – Luisa Cabal

combating this four-decade-long epidemic.

Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, emphasized that there is a fundamental part that communities play in accelerating the HIV response.

“Today, let us renew our commitment and support for community leadership as we work together to eliminate AIDS in the region of the Americas,” he added.

Luisa Cabal, Regional Director of UNAIDS for Latin America and the Caribbean, added, “We are on the home stretch when it comes to ending AIDS as a public health challenge, but we will only achieve this goal if we empower the most affected communities that are being left behind.”

Caba further said that community leadership is essential in all HIV plans and programs, which must also have financing and

protective regulations for their operation.

To extend services to key populations and individuals living with HIV, PAHO and UNAIDS jointly initiated the “I am key” initiative in eleven Latin American countries.

This effort has fostered stronger collaborations with communities and civil society, supporting an accelerated response and people-centered service models.

Empowering communities to devise their strategies is essential to reach those most in need with critical information, HIV self-testing, antiretrovirals (PrEP), and treatment to achieve an undetectable viral load, thus breaking the chain of transmission.

Services led by community groups, known for being free of stigma and discrimination, contribute significantly to acceptance and retention in care for key populations such as

Jamaica surpasses 1000 conrmed cases of dengue

Minister of Health & Wellness Christopher Tufton (in beige vest) and health workers examining a potential mosquito-breeding site.

Jamaica has now surpassed 1,000 confirmed cases of dengue, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

As of November 30, there were 1,301 confirmed Dengue cases in Jamaica, the ministry said, along with 12 Dengue-related deaths – eight of which have been classified as suspected and four as confirmed.

Kingston & St. Andrew has reported the highest number of cases for 2023 at 1,232. At the same time, St Thomas continues with the highest rate of 541.4 cases per 100,000 population.

The highest number of cases continues to be observed in the 5–14-year-old cohort at a rate of 623.1 cases per 100,000 population.

The ministry is again reminding the public that Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease that is usually a mild illness in which a person may get a fever, headache, joint, and muscle pains.

“Rest and adequate hydration are usually enough to see one through the period of illness.

The recommended treatment for the fever is acetaminophen/paracetamol,” it said in a statement.

The ministry has also urged residents not to

self-treat themselves if they suspect that they have dengue, but to visit a health facility and seek medical advice.

It also urged people to play their part by checking for and eliminating mosquito breeding sites in their surroundings.

“Persons are asked to play their part in ensuring that the Dengue cases are minimized by monitoring water storage containers for mosquito breeding; keeping surroundings free of debris; destroying or treating potential mosquito breeding sites; wearing protective clothing and using a DEET containing mosquito repellent,” the statement read.

Since the outbreak was declared in September, over 400 communities have been fogged to date, according to Minister of Health Christopher Tufton.

Morning and evening fogging sessions are just one part of the ministry’s dengue outbreak mitigation plan, which includes a public education campaign on dengue, clinical management, destroying mosquito breeding sites (primarily located in the homes of residents), drain cleaning, and waste removal.

gays and men who have sex with men, sex workers, trans individuals, and drug users – populations crucial in the fight against HIV and among whom the highest number of new infections are reported.

Reports are that in Latin America and the Caribbean, approximately 2.5 million individuals live with HIV. In 2022, around 130,000 people contracted the virus, and 33,000 lost their lives due to AIDS-related causes.

Advancements in medicine and public health have facilitated rapid diagnosis and combined prevention methods, making effective treatment against the virus possible.

Adherence to treatment by a person with HIV means they no longer transmit the virus, while a healthy person taking PrEP enjoys 99% protection against HIV. The region has made significant strides in implementing PrEP, evident in the increasing number of countries with public health policies on PrEP and its greater accessibility.

However, efforts to expand PrEP coverage must be accelerated to prevent new HIV cases.

Disseminating information to communities can stimulate greater demand for PrEP, especially among those at the highest risk of exposure.

Additionally, through the PAHO Strategic Fund, countries in the Americas can purchase PrEP at affordable prices, providing crucial support given the limited resources of some health ministries.

On World AIDS Day 2023, Latin America and the Caribbean stand united in recognizing the invaluable contribution of communities and civil society in the battle against HIV and renew their commitment to ending AIDS in the region.

Saint Kitts and Nevis unveils kidney transplant program In a momentous stride towards reshaping healthcare in Saint Kitts and Nevis, Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, unveiled the Kidney (Renal) Transplant Program on November 24th.

The historic launch unfolded during a special edition of “Health Wise” on ZIZ Radio and Television, hosted by the accomplished Dr. Joylette WoodleyFassale. Dr. Woodley-Fassale, a General Surgeon at the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital, serves as President of the St. Kitts Nevis Medical and Dental Association and heads the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at JNF. A commitment to accessible healthcare During his opening address, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare for all citizens.

He acknowledged the mounting prevalence of renal disease, closely linked to chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

Dr. Drew made a compelling case for renal transplants, citing their costeffectiveness and the prospect of an enhanced quality of life compared to existing dialysis treatments.

Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew’s vision for the Kidney Transplant Program resonated with the healthcare landscape’s urgent needs.

“What we are really doing here is to launch a program that will benefit the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis no matter where they live or their stead in life, as long as they need this type of medical care we want to make it available,” he said.

He attributed the surge in renal disease partly to chronic ailments like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. He emphasized the program’s potential to

Drew

alleviate financial burdens and elevate the overall quality of life for the citizens of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Dr. Morton remarked, “If it’s one thing that everyone agrees with is that anything that can give more hope and more options to the persons who suffer from end-stage renal disease is something that the staff is going to be all for.

Anything to either improve the dialysis options or in this case, anything to give them another treatment modality.”

Dr. Dunia Diegguez Velqzgue, a Nephrologist at JNF, shed light on the transformative impact of kidney transplants.

With 40 patients on hemodialysis at JNF, she emphasized the life-changing benefits a kidney transplant offers, including improved health, reduced complications, and the full restoration of kidney functions.

The Minister of Health conveyed a dual message to the public: advocating prevention through healthy lifestyle practices and early management of chronic diseases to prevent the progression to end-stage renal disease.

He affirmed, “This initiative is a significant advancement in our healthcare system, ensuring highly specialized care is available here in Saint Kitts and Nevis.”

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 –

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

How to have a safe holiday amid COVID-19 concerns and new variants free, in-person COVID-19 testing locations can be found at testinglocator.cdc.gov.

With the holiday season just around the corner, it's essential to be well-prepared for the challenges posed by COVID-19 and the emergence of new variants.

Safety Measures After Testing Positive For individuals who receive a positive COVID-19 test result, it's crucial to follow appropriate measures to prevent further transmission. COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, making gatherings and shared meals during the holidays potential risks. Even after symptoms appear, the virus can remain contagious for up to eight days, according to the CDC. The CDC's latest quarantine recommendations suggest isolating from others at home for a minimum of five days following a positive test. If symptoms persist or worsen during this period, continue isolation until at least 24 hours have passed without a fever (without using fever-reducing medication), and other symptoms improve. As for those who test positive but remain asymptomatic, a five-day isolation period while infectious is still recommended, followed by a return to normal activities.

Monitoring the COVID-19 Situation As we approach the holidays, experts are keeping a watchful eye on the COVID-19 situation. Last year, following Thanksgiving in 2022, there was a significant increase in hospitalizations related to the virus, even though the early fall had seen a decline. This year, we see a similar trend, with data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicating an increase in emergency room visits for COVID-19 between late September and the beginning of November.

Free At-Home Testing Kits In anticipation of rising cases, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced the reintroduction of free COVID-19 testing kits delivered to homes, starting on November 20. It's crucial to be aware of this initiative to protect your loved ones and yourself.

Understanding Respiratory Illnesses COVID-19 isn't the only respiratory illness to be concerned about during the holiday season. The rise in cases coincides with the annual flu season and an increase in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections. Given the symptom overlap among these illnesses, it's vital to distinguish between them. Symptoms like a runny or congested nose, fever, cough, fatigue, sore throat, muscle pain, headache, and vomiting can occur with both COVID-19 and the flu. However, diarrhea is more common with the flu. A complete loss of taste and smell is more likely with COVID-19. RSV symptoms include a congested nose, dry cough, fever, and sore throat, with fevers generally less severe.

RSV infections are more common among young children and older adults, especially those with preexisting respiratory or immune conditions.

Boosting Protection This Season When to Get Tested Knowing when to get tested for COVID-19 is crucial. Symptoms may appear between two to five days after exposure, sometimes taking up to 14 days. If you've been in contact with the virus, consider taking a COVID-19 test between four and five days post-exposure, even if you don't have symptoms. If you experience COVID-19-like symptoms, getting tested is advisable, even if you're unsure about exposure. It's also wise to take a test before attending family gatherings or group events if you're experiencing symptoms to prevent potential virus spread.

Ensuring Adequate Testing Kit Supply To maintain a sufficient supply of COVID testing kits at home, remember that these kits have expiration dates. The HHS has announced that every household in the U.S. is eligible to order an additional four free at-home tests starting November 20. If you haven't ordered tests this fall, you can place two orders, totaling eight tests. These tests are available at no cost, including shipping, and can be requested at covid.gov/tests. Additionally,

To strengthen your protection against illness this season, consider the latest COVID-19 booster, released in midSeptember and targeting the most recent variants. The CDC Director, Mandy Cohen, emphasizes the importance of vaccination: "We know when we get to Thanksgiving, people are going to travel, they're going to gather, and that's when viruses spread. Right now is the best time for folks to protect themselves so they can build up those antibodies ahead of the holiday." This booster is recommended for everyone over the age of six months, regardless of prior COVID-19 vaccinations.

Whether vaccinated or not, maintaining good hygiene practices is essential, including frequent handwashing, avoiding crowded areas, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wearing a mask when unwell, as advised by the CDC.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM

DIASPORA

From the bus driver’s seat to the spotlight Caribbean-American bus driver takes center stage with debut play Bill “Triple-5” Vila, known both for his acting prowess and his role as a bus driver, is steering his career in an exciting new direction.

Vila has just completed his debut play, titled “From Where I Sit,” a project he and his team are actively developing for a full-scale production in the heart of New York City.

A Brooklyn-born talent with Caribbean roots Born and raised in Brooklyn to a proud Puerto Rican family deeply connected to their Caribbean heritage, Vila is a multi-talented individual. His alias, Triple-5, stems from his past life as an executive car driver when he was assigned the code name “555.”

Beyond acting, Vila’s creative talents extend to music; he composed the music for “From Where I Sit” and is an accomplished singer and pianist.

“From Where I Sit” is a one-act drama infused with music, reflecting Vila’s life experiences as a long-distance coach operator.

Across countless miles and many years, Vila has witnessed and been a part of remarkable stories on his buses—some heartwarming, some tear-inducing, and others infuriating.

He views a long bus ride as a metaphor for life itself, and the play explores these human experiences from the unique perspective of a bus driver.

Vila plans to play the lead role—himself—in “From Where I Sit.” Alongside him, an ensemble of actors will transform into various characters, weaving together the anecdotal stories that make up the play.

Vila’s motivation for creating this work was twofold: to provide himself with a platform for performance and to use the stage as a catharsis for the less pleasant moments he encountered on the job.

Vila embarked on this creative journey back in 2007 after conversations with his voice technician, Susan Baum.

She recognized his passion for sharing his bus excursion stories and encouraged him to start journaling them. That decision marked the inception of “From Where I Sit.” For Vila, storytelling has been a lifelong passion. He draws inspiration from notable Puerto Rican actors like Raúl Juliá and Rita Moreno.

Border Clash conglomerate Corporación Venezolana de Guayana.

Over the weekend, Maduro asked Venezuelan voters whether they would support establishing a state in Essequibo, grant citizenship to its residents, and reject the U.N. court's jurisdiction in the dispute. On Sunday, he said the referendum was a success.

Maduro also announced the creation of a Comprehensive Defense Operational Zone for the territory in dispute. It would be similar to special military commands that operate in certain regions of Venezuela.

“The announcements by Venezuela are in full defiance of international law,” Ali said. “And any country that so openly defies important international bodies should be of concern not only for Guyana but for all of the world." He said Venezuela's actions can severely disrupt the region's stability and peaceful coexistence.

The Guyanese president said in a statement late Tuesday that his administration has reached out to the U.S., neighboring Brazil, the U.K., France, the U.N. secretary-general and the U.S. Southern Command, which oversees military operations in Central and South America and the Caribbean.

Guyana/Venezuela's longstanding land dispute The Guyana-Venezuela land border controversy is a long-standing territorial dispute between the neighboring countries. It revolves around the ownership of the

Vila

His journey in the arts began at Simon Baruch Junior High School in Manhattan under the guidance of his music mentor, Dr. Robert Barry Sharon.

Cast as Pepe in a school production of “West Side Story,” Vila’s path was set.

He continued his education at the High School of Music and Art (now Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Performing Arts) and has since appeared in television productions like “Louie,” “Bull,” and “People You Know.”

Vila’s fascination with buses and driving was fueled by his uncle, a former New York City Transit Authority bus driver. He looked up to his Uncle Mario and aspired to follow in his footsteps.

In June 1997, Vila acquired his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and began his career as a bus driver that October.

With “From Where I Sit,” Bill “Triple-5” Vila is poised to merge his roles as a bus driver and storyteller for the very first time, an opportunity he finds genuinely exhilarating.

He aspires for audiences to gain insight into

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Essequibo region, a vast and resource-rich area located in the eastern part of Guyana, which accounts for two-thirds of the country.

The dispute dates back to the 19th century when Venezuela claimed that an 1899 arbitration award, known as the Arbitral Award of Paris, which settled the border between the British colony of British Guiana (now Guyana) and Venezuela, was invalid. Venezuela argues that the award was the result of coercion and fraud.

In recent years, the controversy has escalated due to the discovery of significant offshore oil reserves in the waters off the coast of Guyana, near the disputed region. Both countries have engaged in diplomatic efforts and legal actions to assert their claims to the territory.

The situation remains unresolved, with both countries holding firm to their respective claims and periodically engaging in diplomatic tensions and negotiations to find a peaceful resolution to the dispute. International organizations, such as the United Nations, have been involved in mediating the conflict, but a final resolution has yet to be achieved.

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the dedication, passion, and unique calling required for both his roles—being before an audience and being behind the wheel.

Together with director Patrick Marran, Vila has exciting plans for “From Where I Sit.” They intend to host a series of staged readings in 2024, using feedback to refine and shape the production.

After years of dedication, Vila and his team eagerly anticipate the next chapters in this creative journey, knowing that there’s nothing quite like “From Where I Sit” on the theatrical landscape.

Jamaican Consulate in New York to get new location by February After two decades at its current address, the Jamaican Consulate in New York is gearing up for an eagerly anticipated move to a brand-new location.

The discussion surrounding the consulate’s relocation has been ongoing for some time. However, the necessary steps to facilitate the move have only recently been set in motion.

The consulate’s new address will be 300 East 42nd Street, situated at the intersection of 42nd Street and 2nd Avenue in Manhattan.

The new space is currently undergoing construction and is firmly on track for the scheduled February move.

Consul General Alsion Wilson confirmed to the Jamaica Gleaner that leases for the new location have already been signed, solidifying the consulate’s future home.

One of the standout features of the new location is the significantly increased space it offers compared to the current one.

According to Wilson, the waiting room will be more spacious, ensuring a more comfortable experience for both consulate staff and visitors. The consulate will occupy two and a half floors within the building, providing ample room for its various functions.

Safety and security are top priorities at the new location. It is understood that one measure to bolster staff safety will be the installation of bulletproof glass in the waiting area.

The new address will serve as a hub for several important entities, including the Jamaican mission to the United Nations, JAMPRO, and the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies.

This consolidation is expected to enhance collaboration and efficiency among these organizations.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 –

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COMMUNITY

Miami rises as top global relocation destination Recent data released by Remitly reveals a surprising trend in global relocation preferences, placing Miami in a highly coveted position.

This analysis, which prioritizes the perspectives of a diverse range of countries, underscores the evolving patterns in international migration.

Global search trends highlight Miami’s appeal In an intriguing twist, Miami has emerged as the second most desirable city for relocation, surpassing both Paris and New York City.

This conclusion stems from Remitly’s

analysis of Google search volumes for the phrase ‘move to [city]’ across 164 countries. By excluding searches from local regions, Remitly’s findings offer an accurate representation of global preferences.

While Dubai tops the list, attracting the interest of 60 countries including powerhouses like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., Miami’s popularity is noteworthy.

The Sunshine State’s city has captured the imagination of residents from diverse countries such as Greece, Haiti, Afghanistan, and Chile.

A detailed look at the data reveals that Miami’s allure spans continents. Countries like Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and others in Central Asia, along with nations from South

America and the Caribbean, are increasingly interested in moving to Miami. Miami was the most popular searched city in these countries.

This shift in relocation preferences is set against the backdrop of a significant increase in international migration over the last three decades.

According to Remitly, an estimated 281 million people were living outside their country of birth by 2020.

This figure represents a significant jump from 1990, accounting for 3.6 per cent of the global population and highlighting a trend that continues to reshape the dynamics of global mobility.

Couple arrested for allegedly beating their children with extension cords A Florida City couple is accused of severely beating their two young children with extension cords over a span of 11 days.

Janice Young, 46, and Ashanti Young, 43, were arrested Thursday on two counts each of aggravated child abuse causing great bodily harm, the arrest reports said.

The incident came to light when they returned to their elementary school in Homestead after the holidays.

Reports are that the children endured this harrowing ordeal during their Thanksgiving break, which took place from November 18 to 29.

According to reports, the school counselor became suspicious when a child in the physical education class refused to remove his jacket.

The 7-year-old child shared that he had bruises on his arm, but upon closer examination by the school nurse, fresh cuts were discovered.

It is further reported that his 8-year-old sister disclosed to the school counselor that

their mothers beat them using a white and black cord.

According to reports, the 8-year-old recounted the gruesome details, explaining that her misbehavior during the Thanksgiving break, such as coloring and drawing, had triggered the abuse.

She reported that Janice Young, one of her mothers, had beaten her with a white electrical cable on the back of her thighs.

The ordeal was so painful that she had trouble sitting down due to the excruciating pain in her legs.

The young girl further revealed that Janice Young would sometimes employ a cord, shoe, or stick to administer punishment, while Ashanti Young, her other mother, was less severe but still culpable in the abuse.

The 8-year-old girl exhibited multiple scars on her back and arms, along with freshly scabbed welts on the back of her legs.

Meanwhile, the 7-year-old boy disclosed that Janice Young had beaten him with a white extension cord for merely coloring in one of his books.

She then instructed him to conceal his injured arm beneath a sock and refrain from showing it to anyone.

He also had scabbed welts on his arm and scars on his leg.

Reports are that Janice Young claimed that the children had inflicted harm on each other, resulting in their injuries.

Ashanti Young, on the other hand, denied any involvement in abusing her children and said that she does not know how they got hurt.

Seminole Tribe’s sports betting app widely accessible to Floridians The Seminole Tribe has unveiled the full-scale launch of its mobile sports betting app, granting access to Floridians across the state.

The official announcement was made on Tuesday.

Reports are that the Hard Rock Bet app had experienced a limited launch in November.

Initially, it catered exclusively to existing customers who had previously engaged with it during its brief introduction in 2021, in addition to new customers on a waitlist.

However, amidst this triumphant launch, the Seminole Tribe faces two legal challenges from rival betting companies, both keen on putting a halt to the tribe’s sports betting.

One lawsuit was presented to the Florida Supreme Court, while the other has been presented before the U.S. Supreme Court.

U.S. Supreme Court weighs in Reports are that the U.S. Supreme Court has already rendered a verdict regarding this contentious matter. It rejected an attempt to block the implementation of a deal, also known as the Gaming Compact, which allows the tribe to offer online sports betting, craps, and roulette.

Adding to the Seminole Tribe’s multifaceted gaming landscape, the tribe had previously disclosed that inperson sports betting would stage its comeback on December 7th.

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B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM

LEISURE Crossword Puzzle

Across 1. 24-hr. cash sources 5. Paper fastener 9. Auto engine 14. Get ready, for short 15. Carousel or Ferris wheel 16. Run off to wed 17. __ fish sandwich 18. Make level 19. Gave as a bonus 20. Federation with Italy, France and Sweden 23. Midmorning hour 24. Office neckwear 25. Takes in, as a rescue dog 29. Adhesive substance 31. Double-curve letter 34. Aladdin's magical pal 35. Of low quality 36. Ancestry chart

37. ''Down under'' swimming stroke 40. Applies frosting to 41. __ bar (serve drinks) 42. Art studio's stand 43. Table tennis barrier 44. Male deer 45. Sheets placed on windshields 46. __ Beta Kappa 47. Everyone 48. Purple flower of Tanzania 55. Mistake 56. Beer's topping 57. Shaped like an egg 59. Minimum amount 60. Without any guarantee 61. Ceramic flooring piece 62. Wives or husbands 63. Depend (on) 64. Vehicle on snow

Down

Scramble

Arrange the circled letters to form the bonus answer, as suggested by the caption in the cartoon

1. Rental dwelling: Abbr.

2. Factual 3. Restaurant's listing 4. Practice boxing 5. Fancy pancakes 6. Perk (up) 7. Notion 8. Actor Sean 9. Cruel person 10. ''Golden'' song of long ago 11. Phrase atop a chore list 12. Unlock 13. Scarlet or crimson 21. Furry river mammal 22. Driver's reversal 25. A second time 26. Low poker card 27. Initial stage 28. Cherry seeds 29. About to leave 30. Fill with cargo

31. Remove a pencil mark 32. Underground drain 33. Is a dealer in 35. Urgent request 36. Cafeteria's food holder 38. House's upper storage level 39. Big stringed instrument 44. Tank tops and tees 45. Weak, as an excuse 46. Nonpoetic writing 47. To no __ (unsuccessful) 48. Vicinity 49. College club, for short 50. Worship from __ 51. Aroma detector 52. A whole bunch (of) 53. Wicked 54. Colorful story 55. Furniture wood 58. Was winning

Sudoku MEDIUM

Arrange the circled letters to form the bonus answer, as suggested by the caption in the cartoon

The owner of the small retail shop was worried about what was being built —

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 –

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entertainment

Legendary Japanese sound system Mighty Crown retires after 30 years each act took turns cycling through their respective anthems, letting loose familiar dubplates that rang out at ground-shaking volumes.

At one point, a tribute was extended to the Five Star General Panther, 9x world champion selector, in front of the international crowd.

“He’s contributed so much to the growth of the arena,” said Chin, “and we needed to celebrate him.”

‘Bob Marley: One Love’ biopic lead actor gets Ziggy Marley’s stamp of approval Kingsley Ben-Adir, who portrays reggae icon Bob Marley in the upcoming ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ biopic has gotten the stamp of approval from the legend’s oldest son, Ziggy Marley.

Celebrating sound system culture

Mighty Crown

B

one-chilling temperatures did little to scare off the thousands who converged on Amazura in Queens, New York this past Thanksgiving weekend at World Bash to celebrate the renowned Japanese sound system and eight-time world champion sound, Mighty Crown.

World Bash, the biggest sound system event of the year, was billed as a musical sendoff for Mighty Crown, comprised of Masta Simon, Sami T, Cojie, and Ninja. The veteran group of Japanese selectors have flown the flag for reggae/dancehall and Jamaican culture for over three decades, and have now retired.

Organized and promoted by Irish & Chin, World Bash brought together Mighty Crown, Bass Odyssey, David Rodigan, Soul Supreme,

Killamanjaro, Dynamq, Pink Panther, LP International, Bodyguard, Tony Matterhorn, along with surprise special guests, Wyclef Jean, and Metromedia with Skyjuice and Oliver, for a night focused more on celebration than competition.

“When I was putting the World Bash lineup together, I wanted it to reflect all the sounds (sound systems) that played a role in Mighty Crown’s journey. They’ve clashed with some of these sounds over the years and have even become rivals with them. Others are sound systems that inspired them to be soundmen, to get into the business.. sounds like Bodyguard and a Sky Juice, and so on,” said Garfield ‘Chin’ Bourne, who also manages Mighty Crown.

Juggling replaced clashing, and for hours

More than a triumph for Mighty Crown, the night was an unquestionable victory for sound system culture, which has entrenched itself so deeply in Jamaican culture and the diaspora.

The night’s success made it clear: The art and appeal of events like this are here to stay.

Reflecting on World Bash, Chin said, “The event was to commemorate their journey. At the same time, I wanted to put something together that would be such a strong force that it would shake the industry, and make people realize that the power of sound system is still there. For a long time, the sound system thing has been very quiet, so World Bash made the story. It’s a new day. I’m hoping it will spark interest in sound system culture.”

“What I’m ultimately trying to do is create a modern industry that celebrates each other for their contribution, despite whether they get along or not. The arena has been so entertaining because of multiple people, not just one person, right? So, I’m trying to lead by example and get people to celebrate each other. Once we celebrate each other, people will then celebrate us as well.”

Kingsley Ben-Adir as ‘Bob Marley’

In a new promotional video for the movie released by Paramount Pictures, Ziggy shared his thoughts on the performance of the actor who will play his father on the big screen.

The eldest Marley son said during the audition process, Kingsley was the one who kept his attention and gave an authentic portrayal of Bob Marley, without trying to mimic him.

“Kingsley do a great job in an artful way … Not trying to mimic my father, but continues on C3 – Stamp of approval

C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM

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SPORTS SOCCER / PREMIER LEAGUE

Bailey deals blow to Manchester City’s title aspirations Leon Bailey's second-half goal delivered a shocking blow to Manchester City, as they suffered a 1-0 defeat against the in-form Aston Villa.

Unai Emery's team dominated most of the match, limiting City's chances. Aston Villa's home streak continued, securing their 14th consecutive Premier League victory at home, while City now sits in fourth place, trailing six points behind the league leaders, Arsenal.

Manchester City's title aspirations took another hit with Leon Bailey's decisive second-half strike, securing a well-deserved 1-0 win for Aston Villa. Unai Emery's squad, riding a 14-game winning streak at home in the Premier League, controlled much of the game, marking Emery's first managerial victory over fellow Spaniard Pep Guardiola.

Ederson's remarkable save early on denied Pau Torres from giving the hosts an early lead, while Emiliano Martinez's double save kept Erling Haaland at bay. These were the only on-target shots for the visitors, who spent the majority of the match defending against attempts from Bailey, Lucas Digne, and Ezri Konsa.

The second half saw a more closely contested battle, with John McGinn missing a golden opportunity just after the hour mark. However, Bailey ultimately broke the deadlock with a shot from the edge of the box that took a significant deflection, looping into the net.

In the dying moments, Luiz came close to adding a second goal with a curling effort that struck the post. City, on the other hand, struggled to break down Villa's resilient defense, extending their winless streak in the Premier League to four games with only three points from a possible 12.

Bailey

YGCA Miami Stormers fall short in MLC U14 final against SRCA Stars

from C1

being true to who Bob was, how he speaks, acts, and how he sees the world,” he said.

Ziggy Marley also gave props to the 37-year-old British actor for humanizing his father, who is considered one of the greatest musicians of all time.

“I think Kingsley brings that human element, and not just [showcasing] Bob the legend or Bob the artist, but the human side, the emotional side,” Ziggy said.

This biopic will mark the first time that Bob Marley’s life and musical journey will be showcased on the big screen.

The film is produced in partnership with the Marley family and also stars Lashana Lynch as Marley’s wife Rita.

The film will also feature Jesse Cilio as Norval Marley, Sundra Oakley as Diane Jobson, and James Norton as Chris Blackwell. Additional cast members, including Tosin Cole, Michael Gandolfini, Nadine Marshall, and Anthony Welsh, will appear in roles that remain undisclosed for now.

The movie will be released in theatres on February 14, 2024.

It is anticipated to be available on the Paramount Plus streaming service, aligning with Paramount Pictures’ ownership of the platform. For those already subscribed to Paramount Plus, the Bob Marley biopic will be accessible upon its release.

awards presented to notable players:

By Ben McLeod

•

In a thrilling cricket final, SRCA Stars from California emerged as the deserving champions of the MLC Under-14 (Division B) Thanksgiving Tournament, overcoming the challenge posed by YGCA Miami Stormers (Fort Lauderdale).

• • •

The final match was held at Miramar Regional Park in South Florida. Aadithiya Dev Mitra, the captain of YGCA Miami Stormers, flipped the toss but Saanvi Immadi, captain of SRCA Stars, made the right call and chose to bat.

SRCA Stars posted a formidable total of 179 runs in their allocated 30 overs. Suhrut Naresh was the top scorer with an impressive 69 runs off 60 balls, which included three sixes and six fours. Maahi Madhavan also made a valuable contribution with 32 runs off 35 balls.

YGCA Miami Stormers' bowlers faced a tough challenge, with Ranveer Nayyar taking two wickets and Dev Mitra, Bhavyansh Sachwani, and Pranav Narayan each securing one wicket.

In pursuit of a target of 180 runs, YGCA Miami Stormers made a strong start, with Dev Mitra and Manvik Reddy matching each other's strokes. However, Dev Mitra fell in the 9th over with the score at 47. Unfortunately, YGCA Miami Stormers never fully recovered from this setback and were bowled out for 134 runs in 27.4 overs.

Soham Phadatare showed resilience during the latter part of their innings, contributing 27 runs off 30 balls. The only other notable scores were Reddy's 23 off 35 balls and Dev Mitra’s 22 off 26 balls. Harsh Dattani was the standout bowler for SRCA Stars, claiming three wickets, while Ram Kuruganti and Arnav Anand took two wickets each, and Saanvi took one.

The tournament commenced on November 18.

Suhrut Naresh was rightfully awarded the MVP of the final, recognizing his outstanding performance.

The four-day tournament commenced on November 18 and featured matches primarily held on various grounds across Broward County. This event was hosted by the Young Genius Cricket Academy (YGCA), known as the premier youth cricket academy in South Florida. The tournament featured 14 teams from across the United States, with a total of

Stamp of approval

•

The SRCA Stars, champions of the tournament.

The YGCA Miami Stormers, runners-up in the tournament.

28 games played during the competition.

Throughout the tournament, several notable matches took place: Chicago Grizzlies defeated MLCA Atlanta Lions by 34 runs on the opening day, YGCA Miami Stormers secured a 79-run victory over Cincinnati MCA Conquerors, Austin Thunder won by six wickets against NJ Bluejays, Houston Sparks

emerged victorious with a 76-run win over Philly Crushers, Detroit Terminators defeated NACA Starz by 19 runs, SRCA Stars registered a four-wicket win against Denver Dynamites, Future Star Eagles secured a six-wicket victory over Boston Colts.

The second day witnessed several exciting encounters, with NJ Bluejays defeating Sparks by nine wickets and NACA Starz winning by eight wickets against Philly Crushers, among others.

On the penultimate day, Cincinnati MCA Conquerors beat NJ Bluejays by five wickets, and Denver Dynamites triumphed over Boston Colts by 104 runs. Other notable matches included the Philly Crushers' victory over MLCA Atlanta Lions and the Detroit Terminators' win against Houston Sparks.

Outstanding individual performances The tournament also recognized outstanding individual performances, with

Alok Priyesh from Detroit Terminators received the Best Batter award for scoring 242 runs.

Krishna Chintamaneni, also from Detroit Terminators, earned the Best Bowler award for taking 10 wickets.

Aryan Rewaria from Austin Thunders was named the Best Fielder for achieving six dismissals.

The Best Wicketkeeper award was jointly shared by Anshul Vedam from Future Stars Eagles and Aditya Vijey from SRCA Stars, both registering 14 dismissals behind the stumps.

Alok Priyesh was honored as the MVP of the Tournament.

This remarkable achievement by SRCA Stars and YGCA Miami Stormers saw both teams advance to the coveted Division A of the MLC Junior Championship, along with Future Star Eagles. This marks a significant milestone, particularly for the local team from the Young Genius Cricket Academy (YGCA).

YGCA Miami Tornadoes, an Under-16 team, had previously won the Division B championship earlier in the year.

The MLC Junior Championship, Under14, Division B, proved to be a grand success during its first appearance in Broward County, Florida. The Young Genius Cricket Academy (YGCA) played a crucial role in hosting the tournament, showcasing national talent and fostering youth cricket in South Florida.

The organizers and supporters of YGCA received praise for their efforts in bringing national talent to South Florida and promoting youth cricket in the region. For further information about YGCA, interested individuals can reach out to Tilak Mitra at 954-2639050 or Anirudh Kalluraya at 561-221-3881.

Additional updates can be found on their website at https://www.ygcapanam.com and on Instagram at @ygcapanam.

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C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 – DECEMBER 13, 2023 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T