Caribbean National Weekly July 20, 2023

IMMORTALIZED IN MIRAMAR

Jamaican retired sprint legend, Usain Bolt, made a notable appearance at the Ansin Sports Complex in Miramar, Florida on Saturday, July 15 as his bronze statue was unveiled.

Diplomatic tensions emerge as Jamaica denies accreditation to American diplomat’s same-sex spouse

A diplomatic dispute has been brewing between Washington and Kingston, straining the historically strong ties between the United States and Jamaica. At the center of the conflict lies Jamaica’s refusal to grant accreditation to the spouse of an American diplomat, a decision that could have far-reaching consequences for diplomatic relations between the two nations

It is reported that earlier this year, the United States government formally requested approval from the Jamaican government to extend diplomatic immunity and privileges to the married partner of a diplomat set to be posted in Jamaica Notably, the diplomat and their partner are in a same-sex relationship, an aspect that has added complexity to the situation since same-sex marriage is not recognized in Jamaica

Sources indicate that the Jamaican government failed to respond promptly to the initial request made by the United States Frustrated by the lack of a timely response, American officials sent another diplomatic note urging a swift reply In a disappointing turn of events, the Jamaican government eventually rejected the United States’ request

The statue, skillfully crafted by Basil Barrington Watson, a native of Kingston, Jamaica, captures Bolt’s iconic pose from the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China

During those games, Bolt won three gold medals and accomplished the sprint double, commemorating each triumph by leaning back and gesturing towards the sky, a symbolic acknowledgment to the world

WHAT’S INSIDE

The inspiration behind the statue

The statue was inspired by Bolt’s occasional kneeling pose, which the sprinter used in his younger years

Recognizing its profound significance and relevance to contemporary social issues, Watson incorporated this pose into the monument Adorned at the base of the statue is

Jamaica’s PM conrms no negotiations with gangs

Bolt’s renowned quote: “Anything is possible

Don’t think limits ” The Olympian shared that this motto originated from his experiences as an athlete, particularly when he began collaborating with his coach, Glen Mills He explained that it symbolizes his unwavering belief that setting ambitious goals and having faith in oneself can lead to extraordinary accomplishments,

According to a senior government source who spoke to Radio Jamaica News, granting approval to the request would require Jamaica to acknowledge same-sex marriages, an act that remains illegal within the country’s legal framework This refusal by the Jamaican government has triggered a series of retaliatory measures from the United States continues on A8 – Diplomatic tensions continues on C3 – Immortalized

Buju Banton reveals new album: Born for Greatness

Jamaica’s footbal fraternity mourn passing of

C3

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Jaheim Hawkins of Jamaica takes on two German opponents in the World Lacrosse Men's Championship

Dona Regis-Prosper becomes rst woman to lead Caribbean Tourism Organization as CEO

Bancro Gordon

Consul General of Jamaica, Oliver Mair making a presentaon to Usain Bolt while Jamaica’s Minister of Sports and Culture, Olivia Grange and Miramar Vice Mayor Alexandra Davis look on. – Uriah Benne

photo

Dona Regis-Prosper

becomes first woman to lead Caribbean Tourism Organization as CEO

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the premier tourism development agency for 25 Caribbean countries and territories, has appointed Dona Regis-Prosper as the new Secretary-General and Chief Executive Officer

Beginning her assignment on September 1, 2023, Regis-Prosper, who hails from St. Lucia, is set to make history as the first woman to assume leadership of the intergovernmental body

Regis-Prosper’s career journey

With a career that spans more than 22 years, Regis-Prosper brings an unparalleled depth and breadth of knowledge and experience in the tourism industry to the CTO

She has lived and worked in multiple Caribbean destinations, and served as Director of Marketing and Product Development of the St Lucia Air and Seaports Authority; Director of Business Development for Margaritaville Caribbean Group in Jamaica; CEO of the Tortola Pier Park in the British Virgin Islands; and General Manager of the Antigua Cruise Port where she is currently employed

Chairman of the CTO, Kenneth Bryan, who is the Minister of Tourism and Ports of the Cayman Islands, welcomed Regis-Prosper to the regional body

“We are extremely pleased to have Dona Regis-Prosper come on board to lead the CTO

Her vast experience, strategic insight, and impressive track record in the tourism sector make her an exceptional choice to propel our organization into a new era,” he stated, adding that having more women in positions of influence enhances the efficiency of the region’s major economic earner and sends positive messages of encouragement and inspiration for women and girls across the Caribbean

Regis-Prosper’s leadership style

A dynamic and transformative leader who has built and sustained a strong network of

professionals in both the public and private sectors (working closely with regional government officials, tourism stakeholders, and industry professionals), Regis-Prosper emerged as the top choice from a pool of more than 60 highly qualified applicants

The rigorous selection process included multiple rounds of interviews and a comprehensive assessment related to addressing some of the most pressing issues faced by the regional tourism industry

Chairman Bryan disclosed that throughout the selection process, ministers, commissioners, and directors lauded Regis-Prosper’s transformational leadership style “They found

her to be innovative, forward-thinking, resultsdriven, and solution-oriented,” he said, noting that her perspective on managing the climate crisis was particularly well-received, illustrating her deep-seated passion for sustainability and her ability to develop practical solutions to critical industry issues

Regis-Prosper takes over the organization’s leadership reins from Acting Secretary General and CEO Neil Walters, CTO’s Director of Finance and Resource Management, who has been filling the position following the retirement of Barbadian Hugh Riley in 2019

The other two Caribbean tourism professionals to serve in the region’s top tourism post include the late tourism stalwart Jean Holder and Vincent Vanderpool Wallace, former Bahamas Director General and Bahamas Minister of Tourism

Of her new role, Regis-Prosper stated, “I am deeply honored to have been selected to serve as Secretary General of the CTO and am grateful for the trust and confidence the CTO Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism and the Board of Directors have placed in me I eagerly look forward to working with our dedicated team and diverse stakeholders to promote the Caribbean tourism sector, champion sustainability, and continue to foster impactful relationships and deliver ROI for our members ”

With a Master of Business Administration degree, Certified Professional Marketer qualification, and significant experience in business development, strategy, marketing, and sustainability, Regis-Prosper is well able to lead the Caribbean tourism sector into a bright and prosperous future, Chairman Bryan asserted

Regis-Prosper

Trinidad conrms rst case of monkeypox virus

Trinidad and Tobago has reported its first case of the Monkeypox virus, according to health authorities

The patient, a middle-aged man with a history of international travel, tested positive for the virus after being tested on Tuesday

The sample was sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) for further analysis

In response to the confirmed case, the County Medical Officer of Health has initiated a public health response, which includes contact tracing The Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant in order to prevent the spread of the virus

The Monkeypox virus continues to circulate globally, as reported by the World Health Organization As of July 4, there have been 88,144 cases across 112 countries, resulting in 149 deaths The virus can cause a range of illnesses, from mild to severe, and is primarily transmitted through close contact or respiratory droplets

Monkeypox signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of Monkeypox include a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting two to four weeks, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes

Health authorities have advised individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility

They have also emphasized the importance of practicing good hygiene, such as regular hand-washing and sanitization, to prevent further spread of the virus

Jamaica’s PM confirms no negotiations with gangs

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness reiterated the Government’s firm stance against negotiating with gangsters, emphasizing that they pose a threat to the safety and security of the State

He expressed his strong position during an interview with journalists following the official opening of concrete pavements in the community of McDonald Place, St Andrew West Central, on Thursday, July 13

According to Holness, gangs have a destructive impact on the country and do not operate in the best interest of citizens

He highlighted that their motives are driven by selfishness, and therefore, they should be dealt with using the full force of the law

The Prime Minister emphasized the need to eliminate gangs from society,

stating, “Gangs must be eliminated from our society, and I want to make that absolutely clear ”

Holness explained that the Government has implemented measures to address the issue of gangs and ensure that no special treatment is given to those who choose to join them

He noted that this Administration has taken the initiative to bring gangs to the criminal justice system, prosecuting and treating them as criminals

The Prime Minister also discussed the Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the intelligence capabilities of the security forces, enabling them to apprehend criminals and bring them to the courts

He further highlighted that the country is on a challenging journey to interdict gangs, as it requires the development of strong and robust evidence He acknowledged that frustration and fatigue with crime may arise among citizens but assured them

American Airlines expands ights to St Maarten and Barbados

American Airlines (AA) has recently announced an expansion of its services from Miami International Airport (MIA) to the Caribbean for the upcoming winter travel season

From December 20, 2023, to January 7, 2024, AA will increase its flights to Anguilla, offering two flights per day

Additionally, flights to St Maarten and Barbados will be increased to three times per day during this period AA also plans to increase its Saturday flights, the busiest day, to

three times per day

Starting on February 3, 2024, AA will introduce non-stop service from MIA to Governor’s Harbor, Bahamas (GHB) This service will operate twice weekly using the Embraer E175 aircraft The airline’s decision to offer this new route complements its existing 14 daily departures to six Bahamian destinations

Juan Carlos Liscano, American’s Vice President of MIA Hub Operations, expressed the airline’s pride in serving as the hometown airline at Miami International Airport for over

30 years

Liscano emphasized their commitment to providing customers with an unparalleled network that includes unique destinations such as Governor’s Harbor, Bahamas, and Anguilla

He further added that next winter they are proud to continue to invest in the undisputed gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean

Gonsalves champions dialogue about slavery reparations

St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, expressed that he anticipates “mature” dialogues to unfold at the two-day summit between the European Union (EU) and the Community of Latin American and the Caribbean States (CELAC)

The meeting commences in Brussels on Monday, marking the first of its kind in eight years

As CELAC’s acting president, Gonsalves expressed his optimism for the final communique to address the pressing issue of reparation for slavery

Before the summit’s inauguration, he revealed having pre-summit dialogues with Charles Michel, the President of the EU Council, to facilitate some agreement in the declaration

Gonsalves has a myriad of issues he hopes will be tackled during the summit These pressing concerns include climate change, poverty, food security, the need for a global financial architecture reform, digital transition, and the enhancement of multilateralism

He expressed his optimism that the

summit’s declaration will incorporate a section on the historical impacts of indigenous genocide and African enslavement, and make strides towards reparative justice

He referenced the English-speaking

No negotiations from

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that the Government is investing in the capacity of the police force to address crime effectively

Caribbean countries, specifically the United Kingdom, now excluded from the EU, where Prince Charles, before his ascension to King Charles, declared at the Commonwealth Heads of Government last year in Rwanda that it was time for a mature dialogue on the matter

“We have seen apologies issued by some countries, recently the King in the Netherlands

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has put forward a 10-point plan for reparative justice this is not a plan for individual persons to get money, it’s a plan on many issues involving the question of debt relief, social and inclusive matters in education and health (and) some cultural issues ”

The goal, according to Gonsalves, is to establish a collaborative front between the Caribbean and Europe “ on those matters to repair the historical legacies of underdevelopment resulting from native genocide and enslavement of African bodies”

Gonsalves expressed that consensus on the issue will lay a solid foundation for an “intelligent, mature discussion ”

Holness further mentioned that significant investments are being made to improve and transform the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) These investments include providing equipment and gears, enhancing police-citizen interactions, and focusing on leadership development within the force

The Prime Minister emphasized that there is a long-term plan to build the capacity of the police force to combat crime while also implementing emergency measures to prevent crime from escalating He expressed confidence in the current capabilities of the JCF and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) to adequately police crimes and undermine the capabilities of gangs

As part of their corporate social responsibility program, the Caribbean Cement Company Limited undertook the initiative to install concrete pavements in McDonald Place at a cost of $8 million This initiative aims to enhance the infrastructure and improve the quality of life for residents in the community Additionally, it involves the removal of derelict structures and the creation of gardens

Bermuda implements new crime intervention initiative

In an effort to deter criminals and enhance security, Bermuda’s government has initiated a project to establish a comprehensive network of CCTV cameras across the island

The National Security Minister, Michael Weeks, issued a stark warning to wrongdoers, asserting that “ someone has eyes on you ”

The government’s ambition is to make the expansive system, comprising nearly 250 cameras, fully operational by the end of the year As it stands, only 75 cameras have been installed and are currently functioning

However, Weeks clarified that it is not merely the number of cameras that will transform the battle against crime

The authorities intend to incorporate cutting-edge technology to enhance the quality of the surveillance images and employ advanced analytics, which would vastly improve the police’s capacity to identify suspects and vehicles

Weeks shared in his interview with the Royal Gazette newspaper that the presence of the CCTV system serves as a significant

deterrent

He explained that because people may know that the CCTV is there – that “ someone has eyes on you” –it may discourage those contemplating any form of crime

Weeks also addressed the public directly, stating, “This CCTV system, once we have it implemented, is going to increase the feeling of safety and security for the whole country So for those that are engaged in untoward behavior –you’d better beware ”

Furthermore, Police Commissioner Darrin

Simons suggested that the new technology would expedite criminal investigations The ability to apply analytics to the surveillance footage is anticipated to streamline the current time-consuming process

The authorities have reported that the first phase of the project is set to be completed by the end of the year

There are further plans for enhancements in the second phase, which will start early in 2024 These upgrades will include speed monitoring and facial recognition capabilities

Gonsalves

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EMERITUS

What a diplomatic mess!

For the past several months rumors have been circulating regarding changes in postings of Jamaican diplomats One rumor suggested Jamaican Ambassador to the US Audrey Marks would be recalled to Jamaica to replace the incumbent Minister of Foreign

Affairs Another rumor was Jamaican Consul General to the Southern United States Oliver Mair was to be recalled this year when his current term ends. But, a viral media report out of Jamaica earlier this week throws a different light as to the possible reason behind these rumors

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According to the report, earlier this year the US government wrote to the Jamaican government seeking its approval for the married same sex partner of a US diplomat, who is to be posted in Jamaica, to be given diplomatic immunity and all the privileges of a diplomat It seemed the Jamaican government procrastinated in its response, so the US government sent another diplomatic note demanding a response The Jamaican government then responded rejecting the request, ostensibly because same sex marriage is considered illegal in accordance with Jamaica’s laws and policy To approve the US request to grant the diplomat’s same sex partner diplomatic immunity would have been tantamount to the Jamaican government going against the nation’s stance on same sex marriage

According to the reports, the US government responded by rejecting a request from the Jamaican government to extend diplomatic privileges that approved the stay in America of three Jamaican diplomats, including Marks and Mair

This report has created a strong reaction among Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora Many people are of the opinion that the US government is acting in a bully fashion, without any respect for the laws of Jamaica, a sovereign nation

True, Jamaica is a sovereign nation with its own laws, which should be respected in the international community, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States The US and Jamaica have been very close diplomatic partners ever since Jamaica gained independ-

ence in 1962 Surely, the US government must be aware of Jamaica’s buggery laws, and the Jamaican government’s policy towards same sex marriage With the US government knowing this policy, why did it make a diplomatic push for posting a same sex couple in Jamaica? Didn’t they expect pushback from the Jamaican government, or did they think the Jamaican government would give in to the diplomatic power yielded by the US?

As some Jamaicans are asking in several social media posts, would the US have posted a diplomat with a same sex partner in Saudi Arabia or another Arab country where same sex marriages are fundamentally illegal?

It is the strong opinion that by posting this diplomat to Jamaica, and taking it for granted the Jamaican government would approve the request for giving his same sex partner diplomatic immunity is a total disrespect of the Jamaican government, Jamaican people, and Jamaican laws

There’s a legal opinion that since the marriage of the US diplomat took place in the US, full faith and credit should be given to that marriage Legally, it is argued since the marriage was legal in the US it should therefore be accepted internationally But it’s still debatable if, although the marriage was legally accepted in the US, it should be accepted in Jamaica where same sex marriage is considered illegal

No doubt, this is a major diplomatic mess, and a mess, now that it’s exposed, that places tremendous pressure on the Jamaican govern-

ment Some people believe this is deja vu for the Jamaican government as it is some way reminiscent of the circumstances surrounding the Christopher “Dudus” Coke extradition affair back in 2010, which eventually led to the premature resignation of then Prime Minister Bruce

Golding

In the Coke extradition situation, the then government dithered and dithered in taking a firm decision to extradite Coke Many people believe if the government had acted more quickly and firmly, much of the ensuing chaos would have been avoided

In the current diplomatic crisis, some people also believe the Jamaican government shouldn’t have procrastinated in denying the US request to grant diplomatic immunity to the same sex partner of the diplomat What was the reason for the Jamaican government’s procrastination?

It wouldn’t be surprising if the government was weighing its diplomatic options with the US carefully Jamaica hasn’t got the financial nor military assets to act like a political David against the mighty US Goliath That’s a stark, blatant fact But, nonetheless, Jamaica cannot afford to compromise its laws and policies to hypocritically give into the USA whenever it comes making demands

It is unclear how this diplomatic mess will be resolved It will take the best diplomatic maneuvering of the Jamaican government to resolve this matter, retain the respect of the US government, and the countries’ positive diplomatic relationship

Mair Marks

Haitians face deportation following charges for illegal entry into Jamaica

A group of 29 Haitians who recently landed in Jamaica are facing deportation to their homeland after Jamaican authorities charged them with illegal entry. The group, consisting of 24 men and five women, received fines amounting to $7,000 or an alternative sentence of three days of hard labor each

They appeared before the Portland Parish Court on Tuesday The 29 individuals were part of a larger group of 37 who reached Boston Beach in Portland at around 1:40 p m on July 10

According to reports, it is believed that they initiated their journey from Jeremie, Haiti, roughly two weeks prior Residents allegedly noticed a vessel transporting the group close to the beach, subsequently assisting them to land

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged the EU states to seriously consider offering financial assistance to Haiti

He was speaking at the EU-Caribbean Leaders Meeting in Brussels, Belgium on Monday His call comes in response to the Haitian crises of humanitarian and security nature that require immediate attention

Holness, during his address, highlighted the compounding issues troubling the

Haitian populace He pointed to the recent adversities like the earthquake and flooding, combined with the persisting political and economic turmoil that have further burdened the Haitian citizens

He further noted that women and girls are more vulnerable to gang violence and that there has been an escalating sense of insecurity

Drawing attention to the financial needs of the 2023 UN Humanitarian Response Plan, Holness revealed its aim to amass US$720 million to assist roughly three million Haitians

These citizens have been victims of extreme gang violence, are battling hunger, and are living amidst a cholera outbreak However, Holness pointed out the glaring shortfall in funding; currently, the plan has

only been able to garner 23 percent of the required amount

In his discourse with EU leaders, Holness expressed gratitude for the technical and financial support that the EU and individual countries within the union have rendered He also expressed appreciation for their efforts, especially considering Europe’s own struggle against the harsh impacts of war

Furthermore, he underscored the urgent need for financial resources, training, and equipment to bolster the Haitian National Police’s efforts in curbing the worsening security situation

Along similar lines, he emphasized the requirement of additional funds for the UN Basket Fund, a body constituted specifically for this objective

Haiti

Lack of funding forces UN to slash food program amid a surge in malnutrition

The U N ’s World Food Program announced Monday that it is facing a shortage of funds and won’t be able to help 100,000 people in Haiti this month who urgently need assistance

The 25 percent cut comes as a record 4 9 million people in the country of nearly 11 million need help with finding food, the agency said

“These cuts could not come at a worse time, as Haitians face a multi-layered humanitarian crisis, their lives and livelihoods upended by violence, insecurity, economic turmoil and climate shocks,” said Jean-Martin Bauer, the agency ’ s director for Haiti

The agency warned that its Haiti response plan is only 16% funded, and that it won’t be able to provide food to a total of 750,000 Haitians if it doesn’t secure $121 million through the end of the year

“Unless we receive immediate funding, further devastating cuts cannot be ruled out,” Bauer said

So far this year, the World Food Program has provided more than 450,000 school children with hot meals, often the only food they receive in a day

Per capita, the number of Haitians facing emergency-level food insecurity is the second highest in the world, with nearly 5 million struggling to eat every day, according to the agency More than 115,000 children younger than 5 also are expected to struggle with malnutrition this year, a 30 percent surge compared with last year

Gang violence has worsened the situation, paralyzing the transportation of goods and preventing people from leaving their homes

Haitians apprehended on a beach in Portland, Jamaica

Migrant workers, advocates challenge DeSantis’ new immigration law

On Monday, a federal lawsuit was filed by migrant workers and advocates against a portion of a recent Florida law that criminalizes the transportation of individuals who have unlawfully entered the country

The suit claims the law is unclear, thereby encouraging “unlawful arrest, prosecution, and harassment ”

The controversial law, strongly backed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, stands among several actions undertaken by the state’s Republican leadership in recent years, aimed primarily at immigrants crossing the border from Mexico

The enacted law includes amendments to the existing human-smuggling law to make it a felony to transport into the state an individual who the transporter is aware of, or “reasonably should know,” has entered the country illegally

The law imposes punitive measures on those who transport immigrants who “entered the United States in violation of law and has not been inspected by the federal government since his or her unlawful entry ” Violators could face charges of a second-degree felony for each offense

However, the lawsuit, lodged in Miami on Monday, asserts that “Section 10” of the law lacks clarity According to the complaint, this section fails to define the term “inspected,” rendering it “hopelessly vague and incoherent ”

The complainants point out that the phrasing of “Section 10” could potentially encompass a wide variety of immigrants, including those who are lawfully present in the United States or are actively seeking legal immigration status

The plaintiffs argue that the law could restrict family and friends from visiting each other, hinder parents from accessing healthcare for their children, and prevent congregants from aending church services. They allege the law places thousands of residents, both citizens and non-citizens, at risk of being arrested, charged, and prosecuted for transporting a vaguelydefined group of immigrants into Florida.

Diplomatic tensions from

Caribbean National Weekly’s efforts to reach out to Oliver Mair, Jamaica’s Consul General in Miami, have proved futile, as there has been no response as of yet regarding their position

United States retaliates by revoking visas of Jamaican diplomats

According to Jamaican media reports, the

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United States, in response, rejected a separate request from Jamaica to extend the stay of three diplomats stationed at the Jamaican embassy and consulates within the United States Consequently, these diplomats have been instructed to leave the country immediately following the expiration of their five-year diplomatic visas

This move diverges from the existing practice, where extensions to diplomatic visas for Jamaican diplomats beyond the five-year

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of several plaintiffs, including the Farmworker Association of Florida, Inc , and other migrant workers and advocates, identified by their initials

Among these, one plaintiff, an employee of a non-profit, assists in transporting immigrants from Georgia to Jacksonville for meetings with U S Citizenship and Immigration Services officials Another plaintiff, known as “CA,” is a U S citizen residing in Miami

She is the legal custodian of her grandson,

who was brought to the U S by his mother as they fled their home country in fear for their lives, the lawsuit detailed

The suit further highlights the significant disruption the law has caused to people’s lives, particularly those who used to travel to other states for seasonal work as migrant workers or to visit family

The plaintiffs argue that the law could restrict family and friends from visiting each other, hinder parents from accessing healthcare for their children, and prevent congregants from attending church services

Furthermore, they allege the law places thousands of residents, both citizens and noncitizens, at risk of being arrested, charged, and prosecuted for transporting a vaguely-defined group of immigrants into Florida

The lawsuit contends that the state law intrudes on powers constitutionally reserved for the federal government

Moreover, it impedes the federal immigration system by barring immigrants from entering Florida and forces state officials into unlawfully making complex decisions regarding individuals’ immigration status and history, according to the plaintiffs

When approached for comment on the lawsuit, aides to Governor DeSantis dismissed it Jeremy Redfern, DeSantis’ spokesperson, stated in an email that the state would persist in its fight against illegal immigration and human trafficking, promising to defend Florida’s “humane laws” against attacks from organizations like the ACLU and its “leftist cronies ”

Florida has lodged several lawsuits over the past few years challenging the Biden administration’s handling of immigration

The state’s governor, Ron DeSantis is a candidate in the 2024 Republican presidential race

period are typically granted as a routine matter

Among those directly impacted by the decision are Audrey Marks, Jamaica’s ambassador to the United States, and Oliver Mair, the Consul General based in Miami Both officials have been instructed by American authorities to return to Jamaica within the current year

Tensions threaten diplomatic relations between the US and Jamaica

At present, it remains uncertain what further diplomatic measures, if any, the United

Dominican soap company takes legal action against Jamaica

DCP Successors Limited (DCPS), a Dominica-based company, has brought a case against the Jamaican government before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in Trinidad

The company alleges that Jamaica is in violation of the provisions outlined in the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, specifically concerning the manufacturing of soap Court proceedings

According to the CCJ, this case marks the first in-person hearing conducted by the court since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic

The matter falls under the Court’s Original Jurisdiction, which serves as an international tribunal responsible for interpreting the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas that governs CARICOM, the regional integration movement

The impact on regional integration

The CCJ possesses the exclusive authority to adjudicate disputes arising from the interpretation and application of the treaty, which oversees the operation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) The CSME facilitates the free movement of goods, skills, labor, and services across the region DCPS, a company duly incorporated under the laws of

Dominica, specializes in the manufacturing of various soap products They employ the saponification process to produce generic soap noodles that can be further scented and molded

In their case, DCPS argues that the Jamaican government’s exemption of soap manufacturers from paying the Common External Tariff (CET) on imported soap noodles, which do not qualify for community treatment as imported products, constitutes a breach of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas

States government might take against Jamaica as a consequence of the denial of diplomatic immunity to the spouse of one of its diplomats

The ongoing disagreement has the potential to strain relations between the two nations, raising concerns about the future of their diplomatic partnership

Hialeah Abortion Clinic reaches $20,000 settlement over allegations of Florida law violations

An abortion clinic in Miami-Dade County has agreed to pay $20,000 to the state to resolve accusations of non-compliance with a law mandating the provision of information to women at least 24 hours prior to undergoing abortions

Last week, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration filed an order at the state Division of Administrative Hearings, thereby concluding the case against A Woman’s Choice, LLC, a clinic located in Hialeah

Initially, the agency had sought to impose a fine of $32,000

The settlement calls for a $20,000 payment, with the clinic denying accusations that it violated the law

After years of legal disputes regarding its constitutionality, the 24-hour waiting period law came into effect in April 2022

Following a review conducted in May 2022, the agency claimed that A Woman’s Choice had failed to adequately document its compliance with the law

The order filed on Wednesday marks the third settlement in similar cases over the past few weeks, highlighting an ongoing trend

DeSantis

Caribbean asylum seekers find refuge in NYC’s new center

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has unveiled the establishment of two additional Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Centers, as the number of Caribbean and other asylum seekers under the city’s care exceeds 52,000.

According to city officials, a significant portion of the asylum seekers arriving from the southern border of the United States consists of Cubans, Haitians, and Venezuelans

Adams shared that the newly established humanitarian relief center will cater to over 330 families with children who are seeking asylum Furthermore, in the upcoming weeks, an additional emergency respite site is expected to provide support for approximately 1,400 adults

“New York City continues to receive thousands of asylum seekers each week, and we continue to do everything in our power to

respond accordingly, but we are still in dire need of assistance from our state and federal partners,” Adams stated “The transition of these two emergency respite sites to humanitarian relief centers will provide, when combined, thousands of individuals with a range of services and help

them reach their final destinations New York City is doing more than any other city or state to respond to this crisis, but we need others to step up and do their part as well,” Adams added

Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom emphasized that

the two newly established sites will enable the city to accommodate hundreds of families with children, as well as adults, as they settle in New York City or transition to their ultimate destinations

“As we continue to respond to this humanitarian crisis, we again call for the federal government to advance work authorizations for people seeking asylum and for the federal government to lead this humanitarian crisis with a national coordination strategy ”

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, Philip Banks III, acknowledged that navigating this crisis has necessitated a significant allocation of resources and innovative approaches

“Despite the challenges facing the city, we have continued to do what’s right and open new humanitarian relief centers as needed to ensure asylum seekers’ health and safety ”

Since the commencement of this humanitarian crisis, Mayor Adams highlighted that the city has taken swift and urgent action, opening around 180 emergency shelters, including an additional 12 large-scale humanitarian relief centers

Jamaica’s Audrey Marks to chair OAS Permanent Council

Audrey Marks, Jamaica’s Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), has been assigned as the chair of the OAS Permanent Council until September 30 of this year

Carlos Quesada, Honduras’ Permanent Representative, is slated to serve as vice chair of the council for the duration of the JulySeptember period

During the Monday handover ceremony held at the OAS headquarters in Washington, Marks shared her vision for constructive

chairmanship

She expressed that she looks forward to a “ very productive chairmanship that will result in tangible and fruitful outcomes for the benefit of our hemisphere ”

She pointed out that the OAS General Assembly in June served as a potent reminder of the inescapable connections between human rights, democracy, and sustainable development

Marks also highlighted the persistent challenges in the region, particularly in the

Caribbean

These include food and energy insecurity, an onslaught of non-communicable diseases, and hindrances to democratic governance and development agendas, all of which are continually threatened by crime and violence

As such, she underscored the growing importance of multilateral mechanisms like the OAS Permanent Council, stating, they “have an even greater role to play, as it allows the further deepening of our engagement, in our efforts to collectively address these challenges plaguing

our region ”

Jamaica claimed the council’s chairmanship from Uruguay Previously, Uruguay’s Permanent Representative, Washington Abdala, held the position from March to June

The OAS informs that the Chair of the Permanent Council rotates every three months among member states of the hemispheric body, following alphabetical order

The vice chair position also undergoes a similar rotation every three months, though in reverse alphabetical order

Adams

Leading Jamaican-American medical entrepreneur in South Florida

It’s a miracle the phone connects on the first try Yvette Fletcher left instructions to keep trying if I didn’t get through the first time, but her warm voice greeted me after a few rings She repeats her warning, at any time Fletcher could be called out to either of her two locations or a home visit She insists it’s no concern, she’s used to multitasking

Fletcher is the owner and primary physician at Medix Urgent Care and Family Health Center Medix has two locations – one in Hollywood, Florida, and an office in Fort Lauderdale A one-stop clinic, Medix is outfitted to provide x-rays, EKGs, vaccines, IV treatment, physicals, medication refills, CPR certification, and more

On any given day, Fletcher might be called in to do some combination of stitching a suture, drawing labs, and performing a physical

She jokes not to print her age, but with more than 40 years working in medicine and healthcare in some capacity, she claims to be winding down her career However, Fletcher is not very convincing The veteran healthcare provider travels on medical missions each year with the Hope for Humanity group The medical team goes to countries where the healthcare system is either overburdened or underdeveloped She’s been to Haiti, Panama, and back home to Jamaica with the mission

“People think it’s fun it’s not,” she deadpanned Over a week, Fletcher’s team would see over 100 patients leaping at the chance for free checkups and treatment The schedules get hectic Wake up Eat Work Eat Sleep Repeat It’s draining work, but she refuses to give it up “Until I die, or until I can’t travel any more, I intend to continue traveling on missions ”

Medicine is in her DNA

Fletcher set her sights on England to complete her education Each institution turned her down and she briefly considered applying for the Jamaica Defense Force before her

mother intervened She attended the West Indies College, now called Northern Caribbean University (NCU), and spent 4 years there completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Resident Nursing Degree

Fletcher returned home to Montego Bay and worked in the Cornwall Regional Hospital

She was immediately thrust into the rigors of the Jamaican medical system She remembers her first day, working the night shift in the postop ward, attending to over 50 patients with only one assistant nurse “The nurse didn’t talk to me the whole night,” she laughed “Not even good afternoon, good morning, nothing ”

She spent a year at Cornwall Regional and did a stint at the National Chest Hospital before completing her Midwifery certificate in 1987

“In Jamaica, at the time back then, by now you figure I’m a little up in the age there Back then if you didn’t have a midwifery certificate on top of your RN (registered nurse) certificate, you’d never be promoted,” she explained

After her certification she worked all over,

bouncing around from clinic to clinic “I worked at the STD clinic on Slipe Road worked in some real rough towns I had some experiences there with gunmen, ” she laughed Fletcher finally settled in at the University of the West Indies Hospital in Kingston At this point, she had married and had her first child But, something always pulled her home, and the University was on the opposite end of the island She packed up her child and left her husband behind The commute was hellish “During the process of traveling back and forth, I realized this kind of life is not the life I want,” she explained. “Trying to get into a Mobay bus with a baby, you have no idea. Back in the day you didn’t have the amount of buses you have now, you had to fight!” For the first time since high school, Fletcher started to look at opportunities abroad, this time in the United States

It would be her first time leaving the country She stayed with a friend of her hairdresser, but knew she needed a more permanent solution She returned undocumented and had to redo her certificates Fletcher enrolled at the University of Miami and completed her recertification in 1997, graduating with a Nurse Practitioner (NP)

degree and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) She started working in nursing homes and then worked at Broward Health (then called Broward General) “It was very stressful for me, I was working full time, going to school full time,” she admitted She lived in Lauderdale Lakes and the University of Miami was an hour’s drive away Making that trip 2–3 times a week at night took its toll

Fletcher completed her education at the University of Science, Arts, and Technology in Montserrat where she earned Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), a Doctor of Medicine (DM) degree, and a Doctor of International Medicine degree (DIM) She took a position in the US Virgin Islands, managing their labor delivery unit An idea began to germinate If she could run a unit and open clinics for her employers, she could strike out on her own “I always considered myself a maverick, I was never one to sit under administration,” she elaborated Fletcher lost her job 10 months later “People say there’s always good out of a bad thing, well that was the best thing they ever did for me I went out on my own, opened my first clinic [in 2009],” she explained

Slowing down? Not likely

“Do you know anyone on the Jamaican medical board?” Fletcher asks in half-jest Despite proclamations of slowing down, she’s still feeling the pull of home again and wants to open a clinic. She’s also opening a third facility in Wilton Manors, Florida “If you talk to my clients, they will tell you I have a heart and I know I have a heart,” she explained She thrives in the bustle of a clinic

Before she hangs up I ask Yvette Fletcher how unusual it is to have an hour without any interference She smiles, ”I’m actually taking care of my 87-year-old mother who has Alzheimer’s Her caregiver is out So if I have to go, she’s going with me!”

Recent study shows Miami-Dade County holds highest prevalence of Alzheimer’s, Dementia in the US

New research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Amsterdam on Monday has revealed that Florida’s Miami-Dade County holds the highest prevalence of individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia in the United States

Among counties with a population of 10,000 or more individuals aged 65 or older, the researchers found that the highest rates of Alzheimer’s prevalence were observed in the following areas: Miami-Dade County, Florida (16 6%); Baltimore City, Maryland (16 6%); Bronx County, New York (16 6%); Prince George’s County, Maryland (16 1%); Hinds County, Mississippi (15 5%); Orleans Parish, Louisiana (15 4%); Dougherty County, Georgia (15 3%); Orangeburg County, South Carolina (15 2%); Imperial County, California (15 0%); and El Paso County, Texas (15 0%)

Unveiling the research methodology for Alzheimer’s disease

The study utilized cognitive data from the Chicago Health and Aging Project (CHAP) as well as population estimates from the National Center for Health Statistics (NHCS) to estimate the prevalence of Alzheimer’s among adults aged 65 and older in all counties across the nation

According to the Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, approximately 6 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease The report also indicates that, based on previous projections, the western and southwestern regions of the United States are expected to experience the largest percentage increase in individuals living with Alzheimer’s dementia between 2020 and 2025

Factors contributing to higher Alzheimer’s prevalence rates

According to reports, researchers further noted that specific demographic characteristics, such as older average age and higher proportions of Black and Hispanic residents, may contribute to the higher prevalence rates observed in these counties

Dr Kumar B Rajan, a professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at Rush

Medical College, emphasized that the research estimates are based on cognitive and demographic characteristics

He added that Alzheimer’s is a multifactorial disease involving several risk characteristics that interact with demographic risk factors and ultimately contribute to its prevalence

Furthermore, based on the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2023 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, older Black Americans are approximately twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias compared to older Whites, while older Hispanics are about one and a half times as likely

Dr Rajan expressed that these new estimates provide more detailed data on the prevalence of Alzheimer’s across the country

He believes that this information, along with raising awareness about the Alzheimer’s crisis in specific communities, can help public health programs better allocate funding, staffing, and other resources to support the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s and all other forms of dementia

Fletcher

Extreme heat wave scorches western and southern US, breaking records

More than 80 million people woke up on Sunday to find themselves under excessive heat warnings or advisories in the western and southern states of the US

These regions are currently experiencing relentless, recordbreaking temperatures that are affecting large areas of the country

Areas bracing for widespread record highs

The National Weather Service (NWS) has cautioned about a “widespread and oppressive heat wave” that extends from the West to the South, with scorching temperatures expected to persist throughout the upcoming week This poses significant health risks for millions of individuals

According to a report from NWS on Sunday morning, it anticipates widespread record-breaking high temperatures and warm daily minimums in various parts of the Southwest, western Gulf Coast, and South Florida

Power conservation measures implemented

In an effort to manage the high demand for electricity, residents of the metropolis have been requested to conserve power from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Saturday through Monday

Southern Californians experienced scorching temperatures on Saturday, with thermometers reaching 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit (41-43 Celsius) They now face another day of similarly brutal temperatures, as the mercury is expected to surpass 115F (46C) in parts of California, Nevada, and Arizona, according to the NWS

By Saturday afternoon, Death Valley in California, considered as one of the hottest places on Earth, had reached a lifethreatening temperature of 124F (51C) Sunday’s peak is

predicted to soar as high as 129F (54C)

On Saturday, the town of Idyllwild, located east of Los Angeles and approximately 5,400 feet (1,645 meters) above sea level, surpassed its previous record by reaching 100F. Meanwhile, Imperial, California, situated east of San Diego, tied its daily record of 116F

Leading weather-related cause of death

The NWS has highlighted that heat is the leading weatherrelated cause of death in the United States and has urged Americans to take the risk seriously

As stated by the NWS, as of this morning, more than 80 million people across South Florida, the Gulf Coast, and the Southwest remain under either an Excessive Heat Warning or Heat Advisory

Authorities have been issuing warnings for days, advising people to avoid outdoor activities during the day and to remain properly hydrated, as dehydration can quickly become fatal in such extreme temperatures

In Arizona, the state capital Phoenix has endured 16 consecutive days with temperatures exceeding 109F On Saturday afternoon, temperatures reached 118F, and overnight temperatures remained above 90F (32C)

Brightline clamps down on reckless drivers challenging oncoming trains

In an effort to address the alarming increase in incidents of reckless drivers trying to outpace Brightline trains, the company has taken decisive measures to enhance safety

The company has installed cameras at select railroad crossings and has issued warning letters to drivers caught attempting to pass before an oncoming train has become a key strategy

The warning letters sent by Brightline serve as mere cautionary measures, as the company

does not issue tickets to drivers

Videos obtained from the newly implemented Red Camera Program vividly depict drivers making split-second decisions to challenge the train’s speed as the crossing guards descend

Brightline’s initiative aims to educate and inform drivers about the perils associated with disregarding trains

Since 2021, more than 11,000 drivers have received cautionary letters regarding this risky and potentially fatal maneuver

One recent incident that attracted the attention of the Broward Sheriff’s Office occurred in Dania Beach during a late-night collision between a Brightline train and a

vehicle

A video captures the moment of impact, resulting in sparks scattering along the train tracks Reports are that the three occupants of the vehicle managed to escape seconds before the collision

An eyewitness said that the car turned onto the tracks in the direction of the oncoming train, evoking a sense of panic among the occupants Despite attempting to reverse, they eventually fled the vehicle just moments before the train struck Authorities from the Broward Sheriff’s Office suspect that alcohol or drugs may have played a role in the crash

Data from the U.S. Federal Railroad

Administration’s online database reveals a concerning trend of accidents and incidents involving Brightline trains. Last year witnessed a peak of 43 recorded incidents, and in 2023 alone, 20 incidents have already been documented

To bolster safety measures, Brightline plans to invest approximately $10 million in a South Florida safety enhancement initiative, which is slated for completion by year-end Delineators, commonly employed in the region’s express lanes, have already been installed at 37 crossings in Broward County, serving as a deterrent for drivers attempting to bypass the crossing gates

Crossword Puzzle Across Down Sudoku

Buju Banton reveals new album

BBuju Banton, the GRAMMY winning, multiple Billboard charttopping artiste, is set to release his highly anticipated album, “Born For Greatness,” on September 8, 2023, through Gargamel Music/Roc Nation Records/Def Jam Recordings

The album, consisting of 17 brand-new tracks, takes listeners on a captivating journey through various vibes Opening with the cinematic track “Ageless Time” and concluding with the triumphant finale of “Let My People Go,” Buju showcases his musical prowess and artistry Notably, he collaborates with Victoria Monét on the sultry and seductive “Body Touching Body” and joins forces with Stephen Marley on the emotionally charged “Feel A Way ”

As a prelude to the album, the Jamaican reggae icon recently released the infectious dancehall anthem “Coconut Wata (Sip) ” Vibe magazine describes the track as “powered by a breezy backdrop,” with Buju urging listeners to let go of life’s troubles and embrace the moment Rap Radar praises the song for its fresh sound and acknowledges Buju’s resilience during challenging times

“Coconut Wata (Sip)” follows the success

of the global hit “High Life,” featuring Snoop Dogg The track received praise from HYPEBEAST, TMZ, and REVOLT, with HotNewHipHop highlighting the perfect blend of both artists’ styles Rap Radar commends the collaboration, stating that Buju and Snoop Dogg spread good vibes with their music, while Rolling Stone simply describes it as “bumping ” GRAMMY nominations and historic concerts

Buju Banton is no stranger to critical acclaim and accolades His previous album, “Upside Down 2020,” released in 2020, received a GRAMMY Award nomination for “Best Reggae Album” and garnered rave reviews from The Guardian and Rolling Stone, earning a solid “4-out-of-5 star” rating from both publications

Kicking off 2023 with a bang, Buju joined forces with reggae legend Beres Hammond for a concert on New Year’s Day in Jamaica This historic event marked the first time the two reggae stars headlined a concert together on the island Prior to this, Buju made a triumphant return to the stage with a highly acclaimed performance at Kingston’s National Stadium The Long Walk to Freedom Concert, one of Jamaica’s biggest music events, served as the launch for the subsequent tour of the same name

Jamaican-Nigerian team wins inaugural JAHFROBEATS competition

Veteran producers, Chimney Records, and independent Nigerian starlet, Zasan, secured first place in the inaugural JAHFROBEATS competition held on the Cyphr app platform.

The team took home $2,500 in winnings

The competition ran through this past June and brought together musical talents from Jamaica and Africa The rules were simple — each team had to consist of a Jamaican and an African, either could be the producer or the artiste and had to create a track After a month, the track with the most listens won

The competition played to the unique strengths of the Cyphr platform, which not only

connects producers with artistes but streamlines the process from collaboration to releasing a single The winning team of Zasan and Chimney Records had their song aired on the British radio station WestSide Radio 89 6 It was Zasan’s first time hearing herself on the radio “We’re very pleased with how it went,” shared Cyphr CEO and founder Dylan Brennan “Our intention was to drive collaboration see what kind of magic could have been created between African and Jamaican artists ”

JAHFROBEATS pulled in over 30 entries While the winning track won with over 18,000 listens, the difference between the 1st and 2nd was in the 100s. “The artists really rallied their fanbases,” explained Brennan “I was blown away, even by the ones that didn’t win ”

JAHFROBEATS executes on the Cyphr

team’s vision and has led to the birth of a new sub-genre Additionally, the competition has shone a light on emerging talents While Chimney Records are stalwarts of the Jamaican dancehall scene, boasting the likes of Mavado, Vybz Kartel, and Aidonia among their collaborators, Zasan is an emerging talent in the truest form “You go on their Instagram, and they barely have any followers or likes, but their talent is through the roof ”

Looking Forward

The Cyphr team is looking to push the JAHFROBEATS initiative further, with a series of in-person parties in Jamaica “It’s a party series where we’ll be playing dancehall, afrobeats, and Jahfrobeats music,” Brennan

explained over the phone The Cyphr team intends to do more competitions in the future exploring even more genre collaborations

Cyphr is a mobile app available on iOS devices worldwide and coming soon to Android devices The app creates an environment for musicians to connect, collaborate, and selfpublish their music, bringing the ethos of ‘work from home’ to the studio space and allowing anyone to make music

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Messi engages in first full training session with Inter Miami

Argentine World Cup champion

Lionel Messi kicked off his journey with his new team, Inter Miami, on Tuesday, actively engaging in his first full practice session with the Major

League Soccer squad

Together with his ex-Barcelona teammate, Spanish middle fielder Sergio Busquets, who became a Miami player on Sunday, Messi was greeted with a ‘tunnel’ welcome by his new squad

His fellow players positioned themselves in two lines opposite each other, and Messi and Busquets made their entrance through the ‘tunnel’ while getting applause and friendly pats on the back from their teammates

Engaging in a conversation with Venezuelan international Josef Martinez, predicted to be his offensive partner for Miami, Messi was observed by more than 200 media representatives who were present at the session while he partook in basic drills

the end of October, then comes the playoffs, and the championship match, MLS Cup, on December 9

Messi

Messi was introduced to the club’s fans on Sunday at a festive event at the stadium, joined by Miami co-owner David Beckham

His inaugural game is slated for Friday

Inter Miami prepares for Leagues Cup

Miami, currently at the bottom of the 29team MLS, will be challenging the Mexican club Cruz Azul in the initial game of the brand new Leagues Cup, a tournament-style competition

involving all premier league teams from MLS and Mexico’s Liga MX

Following his team’s continuous winless run now reaching 11 games, Martino did not dismiss the possibility that Messi might not be game-ready quite yet

Messi’s last competitive match was for Paris Saint-Germain in the French league on June 4, followed by a friendly match representing Argentina against Australia in Beijing on June 15, where he scored within the first 79 seconds, contributing to a 2-0 victory

Contrary to the majority of Europe, the MLS season operates from late February until

Ethiopian Football Federation embarks on historic tour of USA

The Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) and the firm of CJA Newman LLC have announced their first-ever tour of the United States of America

This historic event is set to mark a significant milestone for Ethiopian football as the national team steps onto American soil for a series of matches

The tour guarantees to captivate spectators, showcasing the talents and skills of the Ethiopian national team against formidable opponents

The tour will kick off with an extraordinary encounter between the Ethiopian national team and the Guyana Football Federation at Segra Field in the DC area on August 2 Football enthusiasts from both countries can anticipate a clash between the two teams, fully committed to giving their all on the field

Following the opener, the Ethiopian national team will face off against the Atlanta Rovers on August 5th at Southern Crescent Stadium

“The Ethiopian Football Federation is extremely proud and excited to embark on this historic USA tour,” expressed Mr Bahiru of the Ethiopian Football Federation

“This marks a significant moment for Ethiopian football, allowing our national team to showcase its talent and foster international relationships We are honored to compete against esteemed opponents such as the Guyana Football Federation and Atlanta Rovers This is history in the making, and we look forward to leaving a lasting impression on American soil ”

The Ethiopian national team has been preparing for this momentous tour, engaging in rigorous training and strategic planning They are determined to leave their mark and exhibit the skills that have earned them a revered position in African football Fans, both Ethiopian and American, are encouraged to watch this sporting event The matches are expected to be an extraordinary display of passion, teamwork, and skill

Immortalized

surpassing perceived limitations

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This unveiling marks a significant milestone, highlighting the extraordinary accomplishments of Bolt’s illustrious career, which notably includes numerous recordbreaking achievements

Miramar, a city boasting one of the largest Jamaican populations in the US, considers this statue an important addition to its Art in Public Places and Art in the Park initiatives

Serving as the inaugural monument created for these programs, it holds great significance Miramar Vice Mayor Alexandra P Davis, who orchestrated the celebration, observed the lack of art in public spaces within the city She hopes that Bolt’s statue will serve as a constant reminder and a profound source of inspiration for aspiring athletes

Preceding the unveiling, Bolt received recognition at the Usain Bolt Fundraising Banquet on Friday, where he was presented with the key to the city of Miramar

Additionally, witnessed the inauguration of Usain Bolt Day (July 14) Having retired after the 2017 World Championships in London, where he concluded his remarkable career with a bronze medal in the men ’ s 100m, Bolt continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of sprinting

Although currently at the absolute bottom of the Eastern Conference with the poorest record in the league, Miami is not officially out of the running for the playoffs Yet, it would require a monumental impact from the seven-time Ballon d’Or recipient to reverse their season ’ s course

Messi’s Impact on MLS

Messi marks the most prominent star to sign with an American team since the legendary Brazilian player, Pele, joined the New York Cosmos in 1975

The MLS anticipates that his presence will dramatically amplify the league’s interest, which includes teams from the USA and Canada, and consequently generate a substantial increase in their broadcast revenue with Apple TV

The 10-year contract between MLS and Apple TV, valued at an estimated $2 5 billion, will enable Messi’s fans in 107 countries to witness his performance through a subscription

Jamaica’s football fraternity mourns passing of Bancroft “Banky” Gordon

Jamaica’s football fraternity is mourning the death of Bancroft “Banky” Gordon, a wellknown figure in Jamaica’s football history, who passed away suddenly on Tuesday night

His death was confirmed by one of his brothers who spoke with Radio Jamaica Sports Reports are that the former Jamaican footballer who was also an accomplished attorney and corporate executive died while visiting the island

His legacy is described as one of excellence, embodied in his persona as an exceptional student-athlete

The 66-year-old is remembered by many in the football community as the captain of the 1974 Excelsior High School Manning Cup football team, a student whose intellectual prowess was as exceptional as his athletic abilities

Starting his football journey as a little-used reserve on the 1970 Excelsior High School U-15 colts football team in 1970, Banky’s dedication to hard work and self-improvement later became fruitful

By the end of the 1970s, he was a starting midfielder for the Jamaica national football team

Beyond football, Banky’s sports involvement extended to basketball, hockey, cricket, and track and field at Excelsior High School As his life progressed, he discovered and cultivated a passion for golf, proving to be an enthusiastic practitioner until his final days

From the field to the classroom: Banky’s inspiring journey

After graduating from Excelsior in 1973 and attending Excelsior Community College in 1975, his exceptional commitment to both academics and sports earned him a football scholarship at Howard University in Washington, DC

At Howard, he continued to shine both academically and athletically, maintaining an

almost impeccable grade-point average while also earning All-America honors in football and Phi Beta Kappa honors for his academic performance

Upon his graduation from Howard University with a BA in Economics, his dreams of a professional football career were dashed when the North America Soccer League (NASL) ceased to exist However, his stellar academic record offered a different path admission to Harvard University’s Law School

Thanks to a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) post-graduate scholarship, one of only six awarded to collegiate athletes across the United States, he was able to complete his studies at Harvard

Banky’s contribution to The Jamaica Nationals

For 20 years, Banky continued to support his amateur football team, The Jamaica Nationals, a squad consisting of former Jamaica national representatives and scholars from American universities, mainly linked to Howard U n i v e r s i t y A s t h e t e a m ’ s s p o nsor/manager/coach, he assisted numerous players to reach different levels of professional soccer in the US

Gordon

Lionel Messi in training with Inter Miami FC

Inter Miami FC