Beryl the beast
At least six people have died as Hurricane Beryl caused “almost complete destruction” on small and vulnerable Caribbean islands.
Late Monday, Beryl became the earliest storm to develop into a Category 5 hurricane in the Atlantic and peaked at winds of 165 mph (270 kph) It weakened to a still-destructive Category 4 on Tuesday night, with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph, just hours before it made landfall on Jamaica on Wednesday morning
Historic Beryl also marked the farthest east that a hurricane has formed in the tropical Atlantic in June, breaking a record set in 1933
Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew
Holness announced an nationwide curfew from 6 a m to 6 p m on Wednesday The entire island was also been declared a disaster area for seven days under section 26 of the National Disaster Risk Management Act
An evacuation order was also in effect for areas prone to landslides and flooding
On Wednesday, nearly 500 people had been placed in shelters, according to the prime minister Jamaica's southern coast, including Kingston, faced the worst of continues on A6 – Beryl the Beast
Jamaican government could repay $150 million for Kartel appeal
The Jamaican government could have to repay some $150 million in lawyer fees to Vybz Kartel and his three co-accused for their United Kingdom Privy Council appeal
A new report reveals that the government paid £185,659 (J$36 2 million) to the British lawyers who argued against the appeal before the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC) This includes £48,138 (J$9 3 million) paid last year for the defense's unsuccessful application to introduce new evidence An additional £137,521 80 (J$26 8 million) was paid in April for the core appeal arguments, according to data obtained by the Gleaner from the Finance Ministry's compensation unit
The Privy Council ultimately overturned the murder convictions in March, stating that the decision to keep a tainted juror was “fatal to the verdict ” The London court also ordered
Jamaica to cover the legal costs for Kartel and his co-defendants
Their attorneys are still calculating these costs, which, according to a Gleaner source, could reach J$150 million If the government disputes the costs, the Privy Council will determine the final amount
“You can calculate 36 million times four because none of the King's Counsels representing Kartel and his co-accused will want less than what the government paid, and they have junior lawyers to pay as well,” the source said
Jamaica was represented by British attorney Peter Knox, KC, and a junior colleague, both instructed by the law firm Charles Russell
Speechless
Kartel and his co-accused hired at least three King's Counsels from England and several Jamaican attorneys for the appeal His
Jamaican named
Update from the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl
attorneys were David Hislop KC, Isat Buchanan, and Alessandra LaBeach, who were instructed by Simons Muirhead & Burton LLP Shawn 'Storm' Campbell's attorneys included Julian Malins KC, Bert Samuels, Thalia Maragh, Linda Hudson, Bianca Samuels, and Isat Buchanan Andre St John and Kahira Jones were represented by Hugh Southey KC, John Clarke, James Robottom, and Anirudh Mathur
A senior government insider defended the payments, citing the complexity of the case, which involved four accused persons, each represented by at least two attorneys, and over 6,000 pages of legal arguments
The insider added that the legal challenge was Jamaica's biggest appeal in the last twenty years, involving extensive preparation and
Shericka Jackson prepares for Olympi glory amidst season challenges continues on B3 – Kartel appeal
Buchanan
Twi er/X
Jamaican named as new chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University
Jamaican Donette Chin-Loy Chang, a distinguished communications leader, accomplished public affairs strategist, and prolific philanthropist, has been recommended to the Board of Governors as the next chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU)
Succeeding Janice Fukakusa, Chin-Loy Chang's appointment as TMU's sixth chancellor will commence on October 10th for a three-year term
The role of the chancellor, who is the ceremonial head of TMU, involves acting as an ambassador for the university on local, national, and international levels, presiding over all convocations, and conferring degrees and diplomas
“Donette has been a valued member of the TMU community for decades Through her work and support for equity-focused organizations and her commitment to education, she continues to make her mark in improving the lives of those around her,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Mohamed Lachemi “We are so pleased that she will continue to strengthen her relationship with TMU in her newest role as our chancellor ”
Over the years, Donette Chin-Loy Chang, who is also a proud alumna, has supported hundreds of students by funding scholarships and well-being initiatives at TMU She has established bursaries across several areas of the university, including the DMZ, The Chang School, and the Lincoln Alexander School of Law She also created an emergency fund for students during the pandemic and contributed to TMU's Viola Desmond Awards program and the President's Awards to Champion Equity
“TMU always challenges the status quo with bold and innovative action, responding to the needs of learners in an everchanging world. I accept this role with great humility and am proud to be part of an extraordinary community that truly values excellence, equity and reconciliation.”
– Chin-Loy Chang
campaign
“TMU always challenges the status quo with bold and innovative action, responding to the needs of learners in an ever-changing world I accept this role with great humility and am proud to be part of an extraordinary community that truly values excellence, equity and reconciliation,” she said Chin-Loy Chang's professional career spans over four decades. She has created and managed successful strategies for numerous corporate, government, not-for-profit, and institutional clients As a philanthropist, she and her late husband, G Raymond Chang, TMU's third chancellor, have been dedicated to transforming lives through education, health care, social justice, and the arts in Canada and globally
After graduating in 1978, she worked as a reporter-producer with CBC Radio, eventually leading the overseas service of Radio Canada International in Toronto Chin-Loy Chang has
written for a number of prestigious Canadian publications and has trained journalists in several English-speaking Caribbean countries and in Haiti As a strategist for the global public relations firm Ruder Finn & Rotman, she provided counsel to the Prime Minister of Jamaica, ministers of government, heads of crown corporations, and media practitioners She was later appointed by the Prime Minister as head of radio at the Jamaica Information Service
She was also a visiting lecturer at the University of the West Indies in the Faculty of Mass Communications In the early 1990s, she founded Donette Chin-Loy and Associates, a leading communications agency in the Caribbean In 2000, she partnered with fellow TMU alumna, Lucy La Grassa, to establish La Grassa Chin-Loy Communications in Canada Donette Chin-Loy Chang has dedicated her time and philanthropy to many influential organizations and causes She is former cochair of Food For The Poor Canada, an international relief agency She is also co-patron of the University of the West Indies annual benefit awards, the largest Canadian fundraiser in support of student scholarships
Chin-Loy Chang served on the dean's advisory board for TMU's Faculty of Community Services and was a member of the university's renaming committee Currently, she is a board director for the BlackNorth Initiative and the Toronto International Film Festival, and chairs TMU's Alumni Council She also sits on the advisory boards of the Onyx Initiative and TMU's Anti-Asian Racism Taskforce, founded by the university's fifth chancellor, Janice Fukakusa
Chin-Loy Chang holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree in Journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University She has received honorary degrees from Toronto Metropolitan University (2021) and the University of the West Indies (2018)
Chin-Loy Chang
JAMAICA: government reaffirms commitment to youth empowerment
PUERTO RICO: Puerto Rico issues heat advisory amid power challenges
Death toll climbs after Hurricane Beryl hits Grenada
The death toll in Grenada has risen to three following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, which struck the island nation with devastating force
Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell announced in a national address on Tuesday morning that two fatalities occurred on the island of Carriacou, which bore the brunt of Beryl’s strength as a powerful category four storm
One casualty occurred in Grenada itself, where a man tragically lost his life when a tree fell on his home
Mitchell emphasized the grim possibility of additional fatalities He also highlighted the severe impact on Carriacou and Petit Martinique, describing them as completely devastated
The destruction has rendered gas stations inoperable, severely limiting fuel supplies and hindering the use of heavy equipment for recovery efforts
The scale of destruction has drawn comparisons to Hurricane Ivan, which wreaked havoc on Grenada in 2004, further underscoring the severity of the current crisis
As Grenada began the daunting task of recovery, Mitchell called
upon all citizens to unite and support each other through what promises to be a long and challenging journey
Plans are underway to deliver aid to Carriacou and Petit
Martinique as soon as sea conditions permit safe passage for relief shipments
Jamaica's opposition leader Mark Golding to renounce UK citizenship
Mark Golding, President of Jamaica's opposition People's National Party (PNP), has announced he will renounce his United Kingdom (UK) citizenship
This decision comes after extensive discussions about whether an aspiring prime minister of Jamaica should hold dual citizenship
Golding made the announcement at a PNP meeting on Sunday and later shared it via social media
In a video where he announced his intentions, Golding said, “As promised, I would take the time to listen to views both internally and externally in making an informed decision in regards to having British citizenship by descent ”
He emphasized that while he is not legally required to give up his UK citizenship, he did not want it to affect his future candidacy
“I do not want my status to affect our party nor any candidates who are running for a seat I have to take all things into consideration and therefore I will renounce my UK citizenship Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feedback over the last month Now let's get back to the real issues that are affecting the majority of Jamaicans,” Golding said Mark Golding faced criticism from members of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) who questioned his nationality after he supported the idea that dual citizens should be
allowed to sit in the Houses of Parliament
He later confirmed that he holds both Jamaican and British citizenship, the latter through his father who had migrated to Jamaica from the UK He stated he had not renounced his British citizenship because it was not “legally necessary” for him to do so
Prime Minister Andrew Holness also urged Golding to renounce his UK citizenship, arguing that the country's leader should not
BERMUDA: Bermuda police issues urgent warning against toy guns in public spaces
Hurricane Beryl
Antiguan police officers deployed to hurricanestricken islands
A contingent of Antiguan police officers has embarked on a mission to assist neighboring islands devastated by Hurricane Beryl
The team departed from Antigua at approximately 9a, on Tuesday, bound for Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines, both of which suffered significant damage from the hurricane's passage on Monday
The officers are traveling aboard two separate coast guard vessels, one from Barbados and another from St Vincent
The Police Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda, along with other high-ranking officers, were present at the departure to see off their colleagues
PM Rowley: TT ready to assist other islands affected by Beryl
hold dual citizenship
“To be the ultimate leader of a country, to be the ultimate executive leader of the country, you should have no other citizenship There should be no question by your citizens that you lead that you know that you have somehow split loyalties,” Holness said Golding reiterated that he would only renounce his UK citizenship if the people of Jamaica required him to
In May, Jamaican Senator and government Minister Matthew Samuda announced that he had begun the process of renouncing his British citizenship, which he acquired at birth
Opposition spokesman on finance, Julian Robinson also announced that he will renounce his UK citizenship, citing the current national debate around dual citizenship as a potential “distraction and diversion from the very real issues affecting the Jamaican people ”
Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has spoken out following the passage of Hurricane Beryl
In a quick Facebook post on Monday night, the PM said: “Trinidad and Tobago survived Beryl without too much bruising I extend my sincerest thanks to all my Colleagues in CARICOM who reached out to commit assistance to the people of T&T even as the hurricane was bearing down upon us We stand ready to offer support to Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines at this time as we pray 'there but for the grace of God go I' ” Carriacou, a small island off the coast of Grenada and Union Island, one of St Vincent's Grenadines, were among the hardest hit areas One death was confirmed in St Vincent CARICOM nations have already announced plans to come together to aid territories requiring assistance
Jamaica advances CCTV installation in schools
The Ministry of Education and Youth in Jamaica is actively increasing its efforts to ensure schools across the nation are equipped with state-of-the-art closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance systems
This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance safety and security in educational institutions
In a recent statement, the Portfolio Minister, Hon Fayval Williams, highlighted the ministry’s commitment to the safety of children by outlining the current status and future plans for the CCTV systems in schools
Following a thorough evaluation, the ministry is aware of the operational status of existing cameras and is now embarking on a significant procurement process
This initiative is designed to ensure that every school is incorporated into the safety and security architecture essential for creating safe learning environments
Transformation Officer, provided an update on the progress of the CCTV project Plans are underway to prepare a project concept for submission to the public investment appraisal branch by September 2024
Additionally, the procurement process has already started to install CCTV systems in seven more schools, including Norman Manley High and Spanish Town High, among others
Moreover, the ministry is not only focusing on hardware installation but also on capacity building among school leaders
Hurricane Beryl
Hurricane Beryl wreaks havoc on Carriacou
Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell reported that Hurricane Beryl, a Category 4 storm, has caused extensive damage across Carriacou and Petite Martinique, flattening much of Carriacou in just half an hour
The hurricane struck Carriacou around 11 am on Monday There are no injuries or loss of life have been reported thus far
The hurricane’s impact was severe, with significant storm surge, numerous roofs lost, and structural damage to buildings on Carriacou
Chaired by Professor Orlando Patterson, the JETC’s report has set the foundation for reforms covering several key areas, including safety and security, governance, curriculum development, and infrastructure enhancements
The initiative is monitored by the Education Transformation Oversight Committee (ETOC), which oversees the implementation of various recommendations from the Jamaica Education Transformation Commission (JETC)
To date, 80 additional school leaders have been trained under the National College for Educational Leadership to promote and maintain safety in schools
This training includes specific programs in partnership with UNICEF to create childfriendly school environments
Guyana strengthens local employment policies
In a decisive move to enforce local employment policies, the Local Content Secretariat of Guyana has issued a stern warning to foreign employers
This warning emphasizes the legal requirements to prioritize qualified Guyanese nationals for job opportunities
As part of their regulatory duties, the Secretariat plans to conduct audits ensuring that foreign contractors, subcontractors, and licensees adhere to these stipulations
According to the Local Content Act, alongside the approved Local Content Master Plans and Annual Plans, there is a mandate that when a Guyanese national possesses the
necessary qualifications but lacks experience, they must receive the necessary training
This directive obliges foreign employers to implement continuous training and capacity development programs
This effort aims to bridge any experience gaps and enhance the employability of Guyanese workers within the sector
The Secretariat has outlined specific compliance requirements for foreign companies operating primarily in the energy sector
These companies are now required to demonstrate their efforts in offering equal job opportunities to Guyanese nationals
This includes providing evidence of the
measures taken to ensure fair application processes for vacancies, equitable benefits for all employees regardless of nationality, and active initiatives to address the experience shortfalls of Guyanese applicants through structured training and mentorship programs
The Secretariat has made it clear that noncompliance with these guidelines could lead to significant repercussions
Companies failing to meet these criteria risk being deemed non-compliant, which would impede their ability to receive the Local Content Certificate of Compliance and other critical operational approvals
Both Carriacou and Petite Martinique are currently without electricity, and communication has been greatly affected, complicating reporting and damage assessment efforts
In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Mitchell has begun coordinating recovery efforts The Housing Authority has been directed to make Chinese-built affordable homes available for those left homeless, providing immediate temporary housing solutions
Furthermore, local suppliers have been instructed to provide essential materials such as plywood, tarpaulins, and water to aid in the recovery process
Prime Minister Mitchell plans to visit Carriacou as soon as conditions permit to personally assess the damage and update the nation on the recovery efforts
This visit aims to further coordinate and refine the recovery strategy based on firsthand observations
Williams
Haiti’s gang violence has displaced 300,000 children
Gang violence in Haiti has displaced over 300,000 children since March, according to the U N children’s agency on Tuesday The Caribbean nation continues to grapple with rampant killings and kidnappings
More than half of the nearly 580,000 people made homeless in the past four months are children This surge in violence began in late February following coordinated attacks on key government infrastructure, leading to Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s resignation in April
“The humanitarian catastrophe unfolding before our eyes is taking a devastating toll on children,” said Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s executive director “Displaced children are in desperate need of a safe and protective environment, and increased support and funding from the international community ”
Gangs now control at least 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and the key roads leading in and out of it
Over 2,500 people have been killed or injured across the country in the first three months of the year, according to the U N
Many children are living in makeshift shelters, including schools, which are in poor hygienic conditions and pose a risk of disease School closures are also contributing to a higher dropout rate
The agency reported that children in Haiti are being forced to join violent gangs to survive due to a lack of access to food, health care, clean water, and sanitation. Displaced children and teenagers are at increased risk of sexual assault, exploitation, abuse, and family
separation, according to UNICEF
This announcement comes just days after hundreds of Kenyans arrived in Haiti to help free the country from the grip of armed gangs The deployment has received mixed reactions, as a previous U N peacekeeping mission introduced cholera in the country and was marred by sexual allegations
On Monday, U S Deputy National Security Adviser Jonathan Finer met with Haitian Prime Minister Garry
“Displaced children are in desperate need of a safe and protective environment, and increased support and funding from the international community”
– Catherine Russell, UNICEF
Conille to discuss the initial deployment of the U N -backed mission to Haiti Finer emphasized the United States’ strong support for accountability and oversight mechanisms as part of the mission
Additionally, Haiti is preparing for a strong hurricane season, which started earlier than usual A tropical storm watch was in effect for Haiti’s southern coast as Hurricane Beryl moved into the Caribbean Sea
US government announces TPS extension for Haitians to 2026
The United States government has extended and redesignated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians for 18 months, from August 4, 2024, to February 3, 2026, due to extraordinary and temporary conditions in Haiti
After consulting with interagency partners, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N Mayorkas made the decision based on the continuing conditions that justify Haiti’s designation and was deemed not contrary to the national interest of the United States
Several regions in Haiti still face violence and insecurity, with limited access to safety, healthcare, food, and water The country is also prone to flooding, mudslides, and significant damage from storms and earthquakes, leading to ongoing urgent humanitarian needs
“We are providing this humanitarian relief to Haitians already present in the United States given the conditions that existed in their home country as of June 3, 2024,” said Secretary Mayorkas “In doing so, we are realizing the core objective of the TPS law and our obligation to fulfill it ” The redesignation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) allows approximately 309,000 additional Haitian nationals (or stateless individuals who last lived in Haiti) to apply for TPS, if eligible They must have established residence in the U S on or before June 3, 2024, and have maintained continuous residence since then
Eligible individuals without TPS can file an initial Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, during the initial registration period that runs from July 1, 2024, through Feb 3, 2026 They can also apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and travel authorization To request an EAD, applicants should submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with their Form I-821, or separately later
Haitians not residing in the U S. by June 3, 2024, are not eligible for this protection and may face removal to Haiti unless they establish a legal basis to stay The extension of TPS for Haiti allows current beneficiaries to maintain TPS through February 3, 2026, provided they meet eligibility requirements Current TPS holders must continues on B1 – TPS
Beryl the Beast
Beryl Coastal water levels rose by 6 to 9 feet (1 8 to 2 7 meters) above normal in some areas
Public buildings, including the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, saw infrastructure damage On Wednesday, there was one reported casualty in Jamaica A young man was washed away in the Trench Town gully in Kingston, after playing football in the road
The U S National Hurricane Center described Beryl as “catastrophic” and “lifethreatening ” The hurricane left a trail of “utter devastation” in Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). Reports indicate that hundreds of buildings, including homes, schools, hospitals, and police stations, have been badly damaged or destroyed In the Grenadine island of Union, part of SVG, it is believed that at least 90% of buildings have been affected "Basically, an entire island with 2,500 people is homeless,” said SVG Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves in an update
Beryl also caused a country-wide electricity blackout, severely impacting communication and transportation channels, making it difficult to assess the true extent of the damage on some islands
“The situation is grim,” Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell told Grenadians as he updated them on the situation in the Grenadian islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique early on Tuesday “There is no power, there is almost complete destruction of homes and buildings on the island The roads are not passable, and in many instances, they are cut off because of the large quantity of debris strewn all over the streets ” He added, “In half an hour, Carriacou was flattened,” during a press conference late on Monday
On Tuesday, officials in both countries were assessing the damage and seeking support from regional and international agencies Prime Minister Mitchell stated on social media that the government was working to get relief supplies to both Carriacou and Petite Martinique “The state of emergency is still in effect Remain indoors,” he wrote on Facebook
fromA1
In SVG, Prime Minister Gonsalves spoke about the “pain and suffering” across the nations and praised the resilience of the Vincentian people He told reporters: “Hurricane Beryl has come and gone and has left in its wake immense destruction The faces of our men and women are strained and anxious But tomorrow, we get up with the conviction to rebuild our individual lives and our family's lives To rebuild our country, to recover ” Beryl ripped off doors, windows, and roofs in homes across the southeastern Caribbean on Monday after making landfall on Carriacou in Grenada as the earliest category 4 storm in Atlantic history, fueled by record warm waters From St Lucia to Grenada, the streets were strewn with shoes, trees, downed power lines, and other debris Banana trees were snapped in half, and cows lay dead in green pastures with homes made of tin and plywood tilting precariously nearby
At least six people have died due to the storm Three people were reported killed in Grenada and Carriacou, and another in St Vincent and the Grenadines Two more deaths were reported in northern Venezuela, where five people are missing, and heavy rainfall affected about 25,000 people
In Grenada, a tree fell on a house, causing one of the fatalities, according to Kerryne James, Minister of Climate Resilience, Environment, and Renewable Energy Caricom, the regional intergovernmental organization, held an emergency meeting to discuss support for the islands affected by Beryl Meteorologists noted that Beryl gained its strength from record warm waters, which are hotter now than they would be at the peak of hurricane season in September They attribute the hotter water temperatures to the global climate crisis driven primarily by the burning of fossil fuels
Beryl is just the first storm in an “above average” hurricane season, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration The agency has predicted between 17 and 25 named storms for 2024
Editorial
The debates are over. Now what?!
As predicted, the much-touted June 27 presidential debate did little to give American voters clarity on how the two presumptive presidential candidates will address the issues that concern voters, whichever candidate is elected in November Instead, voters were subject to 90 minutes of dismal political theater that left millions wary of the effectiveness of the two men who are poised to be nominated to contest the presidential elections
Both the Democratic and Republican parties have a responsibility to nominate candidates of integrity and sound mind, capable of leading the country to maintain its democratic principles and reputation as the leader of the free world
Voters have the responsibility of assuring they elect a president from either of the parties, who they think is of sound mind, with the integrity and the capabilities to provide a better standard of life for them and maintain America's reputation as the leader of the free world
Even before last week's debate, a significant percentage of Americans had serious concerns about the capabilities of both presumptive nominees to effectively lead the nation in these crucial times, primarily based on their advanced ages
The debate was the first time in four years millions of Americans were seeing both candidates side by side, ostensibly to debate crucial national and international issues But what America saw did little to allay the concerns about these two candidates One seemed inarticulate, and confused, like a deer caught in headlights, the other blatantly side-stepping questions on crucial issues while resorting to persistent mendacity
But while Republicans have continued to offer their support to their presumptive candidate, Donald Trump, with absolutely no suggestion of replacing him, Democrats fear the reality that Joe Biden could be defeated, and the country left to a president who has vowed revenge on his opponents, are running around confused and uncertain Immediately, after Biden's dismal showing in the debate, some Democrats were very vocal about wanting him replaced before or at the Democratic Party convention scheduled for August 19-22 in Chicago
Unlike the Republican Party which seems unified in its support for Trump, the Democratic Party appears fractured with varying views regarding support for Biden
A large percentage of Democrats are confident Biden has proven himself, despite his advanced age, to be an effective president who has accomplished much for the country in his three-and-one-half-year tenure They are confident he can continue to be an effective leader and should be reelected They firmly believe Biden can again defeat Trump
Another percentage of Democrats, although believing Biden has been effective as president, do believe his advanced age is affecting, and will continue to impact, his ability to remain effective They are concerned if Biden is reelected, he'll be physically and mentally compromised in an era when America needs a strong, effective leader These Democrats are genuinely concerned Biden will be unable to defeat Trump and would prefer a younger candidate represent the party as its presidential nominee
There's yet another segment of Democrats, mostly young people, who although having voted for Biden in 2020 are disappointed with aspects of his presidency, and want him replaced These Democrats seem less inclined to turn out to vote if Biden remains on the ticket
Although there's opinion Biden can be replaced at the Democratic Party convention, this isn't as easy as it seems Biden would have to agree to step down and willingly release the delegate's commitment to him to support an alternate candidate If he doesn't agree to this, he remains on the ticket
Although there are reports some influential Democrats have suggested to Biden that he step aside, it has also been reported other major Democrats like former Presidents Obama and Clinton are supporting his candidacy Moreover, there's evidence Biden's family, led by his wife, is determined he should remain in the presidential race
But is Biden really being an unselfish American patriot? Is he genuinely committed to putting country and party over his, and his families' ambitions? If he's genuinely concerned about the leadership of the nation falling into the wrong hands and is aware of the growing concerns of millions of voters, why wouldn't he step down? After all, he has proven to himself that he can be a very effective president Why not be magnanimous and make way for a candidate who many voters would be more likely to have confidence in and would be willing to vote for?
America has reached a very critical crossroads and needs a very strong, competent, respected president to lead the nation The Republican and Democratic parties owe it to the nation to nominate the best candidates to represent each party in the ensuing elections What America saw in the recent presidential debate wasn't the best candidates Not by a very long shot They are both flawed and, frankly, need to be replaced
Health & WELLNESS PIONEERING HEALTHCARE
Jamaica’s comprehensive approach to sickle cell management
The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Jamaica is making significant strides in managing sickle cell disease (SCD), focusing on comprehensive screening and early interventions.
This genetic disorder impacts approximately one in every 170 individuals in Jamaica, with one in 10 carrying the trait
The ministry’s dedicated efforts aim to enhance the quality of life for those affected by ensuring they receive timely care and support
In 2022, the Ministry achieved a milestone by screening 99 7 percent of newborns for sickle cell disease across both public and private healthcare facilities, totaling 31,806 babies
Building on this success, 2023 saw an increase to 99 9 percent coverage, with 28,898 newborns screened
These high coverage rates reflect the ministry’s commitment to early detection of the disease, which is crucial for reducing complications and improving patient outcomes
Dr Carol Lord, the National Sickle Cell Programme Coordinator at the Ministry, emphasizes the importance of early detection
By identifying the disease in newborns, the ministry can initiate timely interventions that significantly lessen the risk of severe complications
Specialized care is coordinated through parish coordinators and the Sickle Cell Unit, ensuring that those diagnosed receive comprehensive management
The Ministry’s approach encompasses a life-course strategy, which includes screening all pregnant women and their newborns, as well as testing the general population as
“You cannot go to your general practitioner for follow up for sickle cell disease and pregnancy. That's a big risk. You should be seeing a specialist, an obstetrician. You need high specialized care for favorable outcomes for you and your baby.”
clinically necessary
The first five years of life are particularly critical for managing sickle cell-related complications
Through proactive measures such as screening and vaccination, the ministry aims to prevent many potential deaths
In addition to screening, the Ministry provides essential vaccinations, including the pneumococcal vaccine, administered in five doses annually
This vaccine is crucial for protecting infants and young children from severe diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections
If not covered by the ministry, this vaccination would cost parents over $100,000
Moreover, the Ministry has developed a childcare guidance chart to assist healthcare workers in managing children with sickle cell disease, tailoring interventions to different life stages
Pregnant women identified as at increased risk for sickle cell complications are screened during their antenatal care
This ensures that any potential complications can be managed effectively during pregnancy and delivery
– Dr. Carol Lord Scan the Code to read more.
Lord
While being obese certainly changes the way you look, it’s also important to note that obesity is a health condition and can also impact other aspects of your health According to the World Health Organization, more people are obese than underweight in every region except the South-East Asia Region
Since 1990, the prevalence of obese adults has more than doubled globally A study found that 43% of adults were classified as overweight in 2022. Meanwhile, obesity has long been linked to the development of severe diseases and health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers, leading to a demand for improved healthcare systems globally
However, where does the Caribbean lie on this scale? In this post, we’ll take a closer look at obesity in the Caribbean and what we can do to pursue and promote healthy weight loss methods to prevent the development of severe or lifethreatening diseases and conditions:
Unfortunately, obesity is no longer a problem in developed countries According to insights on obesity levels from the Caribbean Public Health Agency, the Caribbean has some of the highest rates of overweight and obesity in the Americas This includes adults ranging from 18 9% in Antigua and Barbuda to 31 6% in the Bahamas Meanwhile, the number of children aged five to nine years old in CARICOM countries continues to increase, with the highest rate recorded in the Bahamas at 39 5% In fact, the prevalence of obesity in Caribbean children is two to three times higher than in the rest of the world As such, to prevent the rising risk factor for noncommunicable diseases, it’s important to address the obesity epidemic
Based on data from the Turks and Caicos Ministry of Health and Human Services, the rising obesity rates may have to do with the continued modernization seen in the Turks and Caicos Islands and other Caribbean nations This notes a significant shift away from more traditional diets based on plants, whole grains, beans, and fish Instead, diets tend to consist of processed sugars, fats, and high levels of salt The rise of digital technology has also been linked to a concerning trend towards more sedentary lifestyles
In response to these findings, the local government
Health & WELLNESS
reiterates the need for collective action promote healthy lifestyles, including propos introduce healthy lunches, and communitie taking part in wellness programs
As mentioned above, the importance o can’t be ignored if we want to promote he sustainable means of weight loss in Unfortunately for many, even when the solut and recommended, there’s still the obstacle o
In this case, joining a weight loss program p p extra guidance and direction to keep you motivated and accountable throughout your weight loss journey In line with continued modernization in the region, modern weight loss programs can be accessed online and on various devices, from computers to tablets and smartphones These programs promote healthy eating without restrictive diets and behavioral changes like upping physical activity and improving sleeping habits
Finally, another important step in promoting healthy weight loss and reducing obesity rates is to maintain regular
physical activity in one ’ s daily lifestyle Researchers have noted that increased physical activity can help supplement lifestyle modifications like reduced caloric intake to help reduce obesity rates At the same time, physical activity also offers numerous health benefits and can significantly impact critical health markers More importantly, this isn’t restricted to people who are obese Data indicates that physical activity can improve other health markers in individuals, including improved overall quality of life, brain health, cognition, memory, sleep, and anxiety
Rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations reported in the US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands Department of Health (VIDOH) has reported a recent increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations affecting the territory’s two main hospitals
The Juan F Luis Hospital in St Croix is currently treating three patients, with one of them requiring ventilator support
In contrast, the Roy Lester Schneider Hospital in St Thomas has six patients hospitalized due to the virus, though none are in need of ventilatory assistance
With the anticipation of increased visitor arrivals during the upcoming summer travel season, USVI Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion has reiterated the persistence of COVID-19 and its threats
Encarnacion stresses the importance of continued vigilance, including frequent handwashing, using proper respiratory etiquette, and staying home when sick
These measures are vital alongside vaccination, which remains the most effective defense against severe symptoms and the spread of the virus
Public health officials have emphasized the availability of COVID-19 vaccines at no cost throughout the territory
On St Croix, vaccinations are offered at the Department of Health’s clinic, while on St Thomas, adults can receive vaccines at the Community Health Clinic within the Schneider Regional Medical Centre
St John residents are encouraged to contact the Morris De Castro Clinic to schedule their vaccinations
Additionally, plans are underway to facilitate vaccine access for insured individuals through private providers and urgent care facilities starting in July
This initiative aims to bolster the territory’s defenses against a potential surge in COVID-19 cases as social activities increase
The health commissioner has also issued a special advisory for households with elderly members or individuals with compromised immune systems
Those suspecting they have contracted COVID-19 are advised to exercise extreme caution, limit close contact, and wear masks to mitigate the risk of transmission to vulnerable individuals
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tai HunteCeasar also recommends prompt testing for anyone exhibiting symptoms, to enable timely treatment and reduce further spread of the virus
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re-register during the 60-day period from July 1, 2024, to August 30, 2024, to keep their TPS and employment authorization
The Department of Homeland Security acknowledges that not all re-registrants will receive their new EAD before the current one expires and is automatically extending the validity of certain EADs previously issued under Haiti’s TPS designation through August 3, 2025 If you have one of these EADs, to get an EAD that is valid after Aug 3, 2025, you must re-register for TPS and file Form I765, Application for Employment Authorization, following the instructions in the Federal Register notice If U S Citizenship and Immigration Services approves your newly filed Form I-765, USCIS will issue you an EAD valid through Feb 3, 2026 USCIS will continue to process pending applications filed under previous TPS designations for Haiti Individuals with a pending Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, or a related Form I-765 as of July 1, 2024, do not need to file either application again If USCIS approves a pending Form I-821 or Form I765 filed under the previous designation of TPS for Haiti, USCIS will grant the individual TPS through Feb 3, 2026, and issue an EAD valid through the same date
Dr. Hunte-Ceasar
Community & the Diaspora
118 Haitian migrants make landfall in Key West
Four MiamiDade police officers indicted for 2019 deadly shootout
Miramar’s Juneteenth celebrations: A tribute to Black history and community unity
Dr. Lavern Deer Honored with the US Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr Lavern Deer, a distinguished Jamaican resident of Miami Gardens, has been awarded the prestigious US Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for 2024 The presentation ceremony took place on June 28 in Miami Gardens, Florida with The United Nations Ambassador Her Excellency Rev Dr Coretta Mathie doing the honors
Dr Deer, founder of the Female Development World Organization Inc (FDWO), has tirelessly championed causes close to her heart ) Established in 2013, FDWO is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to raising awareness and preventing human trafficking, as well as helping survivors to heal and rebuild their lives The organization has received support from local municipalities, including North Miami Beach, Miami Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Margate, and Tamarac, through town halls and symposiums aimed at educating residents and officials
In 2018, Dr Deer completed extensive training on human trafficking prevention and now serves as a subject matter expert During the 2018-2019 legislative session, she and FDWO collaborated with Florida legislators to propose a Human Trafficking Education bill
This initiative led to the adoption of a policy by the Department of Education, making Florida the first state to include human trafficking education in school curricula Dr Deer also founded the Caribbean Anti-Trafficking Committee (CAC), commissioned by the Jamaica Consul General to Miami
Beyond her anti-trafficking advocacy, Dr Deer was one of the pioneers of a program to help bring awareness to the Reggae Girlz's first
quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Her program galvanized local and international support, culminating in the team becoming the first Caribbean nation to qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2019
Under Dr. Deer's leadership, FDWO launched “Pathway to Change,” a transformative program that aids survivors in reconditioning their minds, bodies, and souls
The initiative works in partnership with local municipalities in Broward and Miami-Dade
counties, executing impactful projects that restore hope and dignity to survivors
Dr Deer's community spirit also extends to organizing annual sports tournaments that bring together alumni from various Jamaican high schools for friendly competitions in Lauderhill, Florida for the last 14 years The tournament also raises funds for charity
Upon receiving the award, Dr. Deer expressed her gratitude, saying, “Receiving the U S Presidential Medal and Lifetime
Achievement Award is a humbling recognition of my lifetime of dedication, service, and impact This award symbolizes the highest honor and respect for my contributions to society and will forever serve as a reminder of my responsibility to continue striving for excellence while making a positive difference in my local community and the world ”
Dr Deer also took a moment to thank those who have supported her journey, particularly acknowledging her mom and grandmother as the greatest influences in her life
Lavern Deer was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and moved to Nassau, Bahamas, at the age of nine She later relocated to South Florida, living in Overtown and North Miami Beach, and proudly graduated from North Miami Beach Senior High School as a Charger Driven by a passion for education, Dr Deer earned a bachelor's degree in Healthcare Administration and a master's degree in Business Administration, becoming the first in her family to attend and graduate from university Her academic achievements and community advocacy efforts were recognized in May 2021, when she was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy Her prestigious accolades underscore Dr Deer's unwavering commitment to service and her extraordinary contributions to society, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and make a lasting impact on their communities
Dr Lavern Deer (right) receiving her 2024 US Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from UN Ambassador Her Excellency Rev. Dr. Coretta Mathie
Community
Haitian PM meets with Rep. Frederica Wilson in Miami
Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille met with U S Rep Frederica Wilson on Saturday at the Notre Dame d'Haiti Catholic Church in Miami's Little Haiti neighborhood, marking his first official visit to the United States as Prime Minister
Conille, a United Nations development specialist and Haiti's former 2011-2012 prime minister, left Port-au-Prince on Friday He entrusted Carlos Hercule, Haiti's justice minister, to serve as the acting prime minister during his absence amid chronic instability
Following a meeting that included guests but was closed to the public, Conille and Wilson held a news conference
“We know for sure that the only way we get out of this successfully within the next 20 months is if our brothers and sisters in the diaspora are actively engaged in the process, and we are looking forward as a transitional government to establishing the systems and the processes and platforms to make sure we can make the most of these incredible assets,” Conille said during the news conference
Wilson noted they discussed the Temporary Protected Status granted to some Haitian migrants in the U S She also mentioned her list of demands for President Joe Biden's administration, which included strategies to address the gangs causing turmoil in Haiti
“We talked about prevention; we were surprised to find out that 50% to 70% of the gang members are little boys,” Wilson said “These are not grown men as we see ” Wilson emphasized her efforts to keep
Haiti on “the radar” of the White House and advocated for increased funding to support Haiti's transition
“We are forever fighting for Haiti,” Wilson said, adding that she plans to travel to Haiti between August and September and invited Haitian-American leaders and U S lawmakers to join her
Conille's delegation in the U S includes Dominique Dupuy, Haiti's foreign minister, and Kelteen Florestal, Haiti's finance minister Their itinerary features meetings in
Washington, D C , and New York City
The visit by Conille and other officials, leading the transitional government in the CARICOM member state, comes just days after Kenyan police arrived in Haiti on a mission to help stabilize the nation, which has been disrupted by powerful gangs
The visit also coincides with Washington's promise of substantial funding for the UNbacked mission, though it has ruled out sending American troops
Florida dedicates highway to Jimmy Buffett
Kartel appeal
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several different applications beyond the two-day televised hearing in February
“A lot of preparation would have gone into the different issues that arose, not only in relation to Vybz Kartel, but the other accused persons and there were several different applications that were made,” they said
Since the Privy Council's ruling, the Jamaican Court of Appeal held a six-day hearing in June to determine whether Kartel and his co-accused should face a second trial for the 2011 murder of Clive 'Lizard' Williams
During the hearing, the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Claudette Thompson, told the Court of Appeal that the state would have to bear the expenses of a retrial, should that be the outcome
“The state will have to bear the cost It will just have to
Governor Ron DeSantis has recently enacted legislation to memorialize the beloved singer Jimmy Buffett by renaming a prominent Florida highway and introducing a new specialty license plate
This initiative reflects Buffett's lasting impact on Florida's culture and its natural environment
The newly signed bill designates the stretch of Florida A1A from Key West to the Georgia border as the “Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway ”
This honor recognizes Buffett not only as a cultural icon but also for his environmental advocacy, particularly his efforts to protect Florida's manatees and natural landscapes
In conjunction with the highway naming, another bill was passed to revamp the state's specialty license-plate program, which includes the creation of a “Margaritaville” license plate
This plate, inspired by Buffett's famous song, symbolizes his influence and the laid-back beach lifestyle he popularized
Proceeds from the sale of these plates will support the SFC Charitable Foundation, an organization founded by Buffett aimed at social and environmental change
Jimmy Buffett, who passed away at the age of 76 due to skin cancer, was a figure synonymous with the Florida Keys lifestyle
His songs often celebrated life by the sea and his connection to the “temperate zone” of Florida
His musical and philanthropic legacy continues to influence the state, as seen by his involvement with the Save the Manatee Club and now through the specialty license plates that fund conservation efforts
The legislation also introduces several new license plates, including those for the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, general aviation, and other community causes, reflecting a broad spectrum of Florida's cultural and environmental assets
The bill, effective from October 1, also makes significant amendments to existing plates, enhancing the diversity of the state's specialty tag program
bear the cost,” Thompson said “Murder in general is worth it and this murder specifically because of how it was done, the reason it was done I don't know how we can affix a cost to justice,” she added
Chief Justice Marva McDonald-Bishop interjected, saying, “You are saying because it is a murder and the type of murder, the government will have to find the money?”
McDonald-Bishop further challenged the prosecutor, stating, “If one case is going to deplete all our resources — time, money, human — then that has to be considered ”
McDonald-Bishop, along with Justices Paulette Williams and David Fraser, will hand down their decision before July 31
Miami Beach Commission rescinds 'Sean Diddy Combs Day'
The city of Miami Beach has retracted its decision to dedicate a day to music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs following recent legal troubles and abuse accusations
A resolution from June 26 by Miami Beach's mayor and city commission rescinded the proclamation designating October 13 as 'Sean Diddy Combs Day '
The now-revoked holiday was initially established in October 2016 by thenMayor Philip Levine to honor Combs, a Miami Beach resident The move by commissioners is the latest fallout from a series of sexual assault lawsuits filed against the 54-year-old music mogul Controversy surrounding Combs intensified last month when CNN released a 2016 surveillance video showing him assaulting his ex-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie Ventura, in a hotel hallway In response to the video, Combs stated that he began therapy and rehab following the incident
“It's difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life, sometimes you gotta do that,” Diddy said “I was f–ked up I mean, I hit rock bottom but I make no excuses My behavior on that video is inexcusable I take full responsibility for my actions in that video I'm disgusted ”
Since Cassie came forward with her claims against Combs last year, the rapper has been hit with five lawsuits accusing him of sexual assault, sexual trafficking, and engaging in other criminal activities Combs has denied all allegations and has filed paperwork in court seeking to dismiss a Jane Doe lawsuit and partially dismiss another woman's suit
Miami Beach Commissioner David Suarez issued a strongly worded statement on Monday following the city's decision to rescind the day dedicated to Combs
“As long as I am a City Commissioner of Miami Beach, women beaters, sexual predators, and pedophiles will have no place in our city,” Suarez said
Miami Beach is not the first city to revoke an honor from the disgraced rapper and label head New York City Mayor Eric Adams also revoked Diddy's honorary key to the city in response to the disturbing footage of his assault on Ventura
Sean Diddy Combs
Jimmy Buffet
Haitian Prime Minister, Garry Conille with Rep. Wilson and staff members. Photo: X/Twitter
Moving Cannabis to Schedule 3 Could Have Wide-Ranging Impact
More than 50 years after being designated by the federal government to have “ no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse,” marijuana could be reclassified from a Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 drug under an i n i t i a t i v e l a u n c h e d b y t h e B i d e n
Administration If enacted, the proposed rule change would put marijuana in the same category of drugs considered to have a “moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence,” such as Tylenol with codeine
In its current classification, marijuana is grouped with LSD and heroin
The proposed move would not decriminalize marijuana under federal law, although some say this could be seen as a step in that direction
That said, such a change in how the federal government views marijuana could “ open the door to changes in marijuana regulation and the impact that it has on research and business,” says Sha'Ron James, a regulatory lawyer and public policy strategist, who is involved in highly regulated industries She represents domestic and international businesses throughout Florida before the state Legislature, and several executive branch state agencies
The Schedule 1 classification has been an obstacle to conducting robust research on marijuana, Ms James contends “Interestingly, in order to do research related to marijuana, the specific marijuana that you ' re studying can only be received through one entity What this [proposal] does could potentially open up the ability for researchers to test other types of marijuana and the impact that it has on the body An example is if someone or an institution is interested in studying the impact that marijuana has on chronic pain, right now, they're not able to do that unless they receive the marijuana from one particular place,” she says
Chronic pain caused by a qualifying medical condition is treatable with medical marijuana under Florida law
Michelle Foye sees a possible unintended consequence of the proposed rule change She's the CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of Precis Screening, a 24/7 national drug-testing service and provider of workplace safety, compliance, and community health services
“If marijuana gets moved to a Schedule 3, I want everyone to absolutely be aware that [commercial] truck drivers may no longer be tested for marijuana because the DOT [U S
Department of Transportation] panel runs off that Schedule 1,” Ms Foye says But, she adds, if the rule change goes through the DOT would have the tough job of evaluating its drug-testing policy to continue screening safety-sensitive occupations it regulates for marijuana use Non-regulated workplace drug policies might also be updated to continue drug testing employees for marijuana use even though its reclassification would put it in the same group of drugs that are considered to have low physical and psychological tolerance
Ms Foye says she does not foresee a lower classification for marijuana hurting the drugscreening industry as a business
“I don't think that [the rule change] is going to put us, as a drug testing industry, out of business I think that it actually might create more opportunity because as that research comes forward, as we start to see things materialize and actualize, there's probably still going to need to be a response from drug testing overall,” she says “Employers might want to call a company like ours to say, 'Hey, how can we be proactive in educating our employees? Can you check out our drug and alcohol policy and program?'” Public comments can be submitted online at https://www regulations gov/ until July 22, 2024
Visit bit ly/MMERIMAY2024 to watch MMERI's Conversations on Cannabis Virtual Forum featuring attorney Sha'Ron James and drug testing expert Michelle Foye discussing the major changes and plans to reclassify marijuana in the U S
Editor's note: This commentary is provided by the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) of Florida A&M University
Foye
Bob Marley: One Love wins 'Best Movie' at 2024 BET Awards
Paramount Pictures and Tuff Gong's musical biopic Bob Marley: One Love won “Best Movie” at the 2024 BET Awards, which took place in Los Angeles on June 30
Other nominees in the category included American Fiction, Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, The Book of Clarence, The Color Purple, The Equalizer 3, and The Little Mermaid
Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, Bob Marley: One Love features Kingsley Ben-Adir as Marley, Lashana Lynch as his wife Rita, and James Norton as Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, alongside several Jamaican artists
According to Billboard, it is now the fifth highest-grossing music biopic in the U S The top spot is held by the Freddie Mercury biopic Bohemian Rhapsody (2018), followed by Straight Outta Compton (2015), Elvis (2022), and Walk The Line (2005)
The film premiered at Carib 5 in Kingston, Jamaica, on January 23, 2024, and was
released in the U S by Paramount Pictures on February 14, 2024 Despite mixed reviews from critics, it has grossed $177 million worldwide, making it the tenth-highest-grossing film of 2024
Dancehall artist Skillibeng and Reggae star YG Marley also performed at the awards Skillibeng joined South African singer Tyla and American rapper Gunna for a high-energy performance of their hit song “Jump ” The
track, featured on Tyla's self-titled debut album, has soared on the charts, peaking at No 6 on the Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart, No 3 on the US Afrobeats Songs chart, and No 38 on the UK Singles chart
This marked Skillibeng's second performance at the BET Awards in as many years At the 2023 show, he participated in a tribute to Busta Rhymes, who had received the Lifetime Achievement Award YG Marley, the son of Rohan Marley, performed during his mother Lauryn Hill's set, delivering his new song “Survival” and the viral hit “Praise Jah in the Moonlight ” Hill also revisited the iconic “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” and “Lost Ones,” before Wyclef Jean, her fellow Fugees member, joined them to close out the performance with “Fu-Gee-La ” Cole Bennett, who directed YG Marley's music video for “Praise Jah in the Moonlight,” won the 2024 BET Award for Video Director of the Year
“Praise Jah in the Moonlight” recently received Gold certification in the US (500,000 units), Silver in the UK (200,000 units), and Platinum in Canada (80,000 units)
BBQ, Brews & Blues Returns for Its Ninth Year
Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 29, 2024, from 4 to 9 p m , as BBQ, Brews & Blues makes its return to West Palm Beach's Historic Northwest Join the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) at Heart & Soul Park, 825 North Rosemary Avenue, for an evening of live music, mouthwatering food, craft beer, exciting competitions, and more. This event also provides a perfect opportunity to learn about the latest CRA projects in the Historic Northwest Admission is FREE and open to everyone
This family-friendly event will feature top BBQ Pit Masters from Palm Beach County competing for the annual trophy Attendees can enjoy soul food, craft beers (21+), and various meals and drinks from local vendors There will be plenty of fun activities for children, including engaging workshops and a pop-up skating rink, ensuring something for everyone Be sure to arrive early to savor summertime barbecue specialties such as pulled pork, boiled peanuts, chicken, ribs, and more Music lovers are in for a treat with Shenetria Moore as the M C , leading an evening of
Nicole
Hall,
MPA Director of
Resource Development
entertainment with local bands, including The Blues Therapy and Jazz Band, DJ Sho-Nuff, Ladi T & The SuperStar Players, and headliner Dr J & Company These bands, known for their soulful sounds, have been captivating South Florida audiences for over three decades
"We are thrilled to host the BBQ, Brews & Blues Festival in the Historic Northwest, showcasing the community's vibrant spirit and energy This event is not only a fantastic way to enjoy great food, music, and entertainment but also an opportunity to spotlight the ongoing projects transforming this amazing neighborhood," said Christopher Roog, Executive Director of the CRA
Throughout the event, the CRA will highlight various local projects currently in development in the Historic Northwest, offering local businesses and residents several opportunities to invest in this thriving neighborhood
Spice teams up with Busta Rhymes for new single 'Round Round'
Grammy award-nominated dancehall sensation Spice has dropped her latest single and music video, “Round Round,” featuring 12-time Grammy award-nominated rap icon Busta Rhymes
Directed by Sergio Parra, the rustic music video showcases Spice and Busta Rhymes in a barn-themed dance setting, complete with cowgirl dancers The infectious track combines Spice's signature dancehall sound with a unique blend of country, alternative, and hip-hop, making it an ideal anthem for the upcoming summer season
As the lead single from her forthcoming album, “Mirror 25,” this collaboration promises to be a summer hit Spice, known for her chart-topping dancehall tracks, stays true to her roots while infusing her music with hiphop and country influences This blend ensures a smash hit that's both fresh and familiar
The club banger “Round Round” harmoniously fuses Spice and Busta Rhymes' distinct styles, creating a mesmerizing mix of alternative/techno, dancehall, hip-hop, and country
Written by Spice and produced by Spice Official Entertainment, the track is poised to captivate audiences worldwide with its infectious beats, catchy hook, and fiery lyrical delivery The rhythm track, composed by Keron “Yow Levite” Young, was mastered by Redboom Super Mix and recorded at Ireland
Recording Studios
“Working with the legendary Busta Rhymes on my new song 'Round Round' was an absolute pleasure,” said Spice “I am elated to have this opportunity for us to join together on the mission of pushing Jamaican culture around the world I can't wait for everyone to feel the magic we ' ve created together Grab your cowboy hats and let's have fun together ” Spice's new album, “Mirror 25,” set to release in Summer 2024 through her label, Spice Official Entertainment, with distribution through Empire, is an introspective work The album will serve as a raw, open diary of the dancehall queen's tribulations and triumphs, offering a glimpse into her 25-year career as an international recording artist
TRACK & FIELD
TRACK & FIELD:
Carey McLeod soars to long jump victory at National Championships
CRICKET: West Indies fall short against Proteas, miss out on T20 World Cup semis
CRICKET: West Indies’ Nicholas Pooran makes ICC team of the tournament despite team’s exit
Shericka Jackson prepares for Olympic glory amidst season challenges
Jamaican 100 and 200-meter
national champion Shericka Jackson is aiming to replicate her success on the international stage when she competes in Paris this August Jackson is not only preparing to claim her first Olympic gold but also hopes to keep the sprint double title in Jamaican hands
Despite entering the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA)/PUMA National Junior and Senior Championships with only a handful of races under her belt, Jackson emerged victorious Her confidence stems from her trust in her coach and a well-designed preparation process to ensure she peaks at the right time for the Olympics
“It was a late start to the season, you know, but nevertheless, coach and I had sat down and had a conversation about how I wanted to approach the season, and I think we did pretty good,” Jackson stated “I've only run one 100m this season, and my 200m wasn't the best, but as I said, it's a work in progress, and you just have to trust the process ” Injury concerns shadowed much of Jackson's season, leading to fewer appearances on the track However, she clarified that there was never a real
danger of missing the Paris Games
Last year's intense schedule, including multiple rounds of competition at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, left her fatigued This year, her focus has been on better race management to maintain her health and preparedness
“Honestly, there was a little niggle here and there, but it wasn't anything serious Last year, I ran a lot, and by the end of the season, I was a lot more tired than usual, especially after the World Championships I just said, 'Coach, make the rules and I'll follow,' and that's what we did ”
The Paris Games are particularly significant for Jackson as she seeks her first individual Olympic gold medal Her best Olympic finishes to date are a bronze in the women's 100m at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze in the women's 400 meters at the 2016 Rio Olympics
“I don't have an Olympic gold medal, so that's something I'm definitely looking forward to,” she expressed “One of the greatest things is you believing in yourself, and I believe in myself Yes, a part of the season I lost a bit of hope, but as I said, I trusted my coach, and I am here now ”
Jereem Richards and Keshorn Walcott star at NAAA National Championships
Former 400-metre World Indoor champion Jereem Richards stole the show on the second day of the NGC National Association of Athletics Administrations (NAAATT) Junior and Senior Championships, sprinting to victory in the men ’ s 400-metre final at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, on Saturday
Despite thunderstorms and gusty winds, dedicated fans braved the inclement weather to witness their favorite Trinidad and Tobago athletes in action Anticipation was high for the men ’ s 400m final, which began around 7:30 pm after a 12-minute delay due to crowd noise
Richards, undeterred by the delay, dominated the race, finishing in 44 72 seconds, comfortably under the Olympic qualifying standard of 45 seconds This time also marked a new season ’ s best for Richards, surpassing his previous 44 82
seconds from the NYC Grand Prix on June
9 Representing Abilene Wildcats, Richards finished more than a second ahead of his competitors Jaden Marchan of Siparia Athletics secured second place in 46 30 seconds, while Shakeem McKay of Abilene Wildcats finished third in 46 62 seconds
Richards and McKay had previously helped Trinidad and Tobago qualify for the men ’ s 4x400m event at the World Athletics Relay Championship in the Bahamas In the 400m final, Richards celebrated his victory with a Trinidad and Tobago flag, waving to the appreciative crowd
The women ’ s 100-metre final faced a delay due to a faulty starter’s gun, but once the race began, Leah Bertrand ran a brilliant race, winning the gold medal in 11 18 seconds Although impressive, Bertrand’s
SOCCER
Former Reggae Boyz coach Hallgrimsson reflects on progress
Former Reggae Boyz head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson stated there are " no grudges" following his resignation on Sunday after a disappointing trip to the Copa America
Hallgrimsson expressed confidence that he is leaving the senior program in " a better place than when I came "
In a video-recorded statement released on Sunday night, Hallgrimsson took the time to reflect on the positives during his two-year stint with the national program He emphasized the progress made with the national team and expressed hope that his successor can continue the growth
“We have at least seen to it that the growth can continue and we don't need to restart from zero and there is a basis that we can work from,” Hallgrimsson said “I've given a lot of work and time to this project and I would really love to see it continue to grow ”
time fell short of the Olympic standard of 11.07 seconds. Sole Frederick finished strong, narrowly beating her sister Sanaa Frederick and Akilah Lewis to claim second place in 11 43 seconds. Lewis finished third in 11 50 seconds, while Sanaa Frederick placed fourth in 11 55 seconds
In the men ’ s 100m final, Devin Augustine defended his title with a wellexecuted run, finishing in 10 21 seconds Jonathan Farinha, who looked favored for most of the race, was pipped at the line by Augustine and settled for second in 10 23 seconds Kion Benjamin finished third with a time of 10 38 seconds
The boys’ Under-20 100m final was closely contested, but Dylan Woodruffe of Cougars emerged victorious with a time of 10 57 seconds Kadeem Chinapoo, who won Carifta gold in the boys’ Under-17 200m earlier this year, edged out his brother Hakeem for second place in 10 66 seconds Hakeem Chinapoo secured third in 10 73 seconds
In the girls’ Under-17 100m final, Lisa Arianna Raye claimed gold with a time of 11 42 seconds, while Akira Malaver took second place in 11 90 seconds In the girls’ Under-20 100m final, Xenia Nicole Raye won the gold medal with a time of 11 57 seconds, and Symphony Patrick, a 2024 Carifta silver medallist, took silver in 11 94 seconds
The last field event of the day saw 2012 Olympic gold medalist Keshorn Walcott win the men ’ s javelin event with a throw of 85 22 metres, marking a new season ’ s best Walcott also recorded throws of 84 42m and 83 85m, impressing the remaining spectators with his series of powerful throws
Hallgrimsson took charge of the Reggae Boyz in 2022, immediately facing a daunting debut match against South American giants Argentina, which resulted in a 3-0 loss. He secured his first win months into his tenure with a 4-1 victory over Caribbean rivals Trinidad and Tobago in the group stages of the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup Under his leadership, the team reached the semi-finals of the same tournament and claimed a third-place finish in the most recent CONCACAF Nations League A historic victory away to Canada paved the way for Jamaica's qualification for the 2024 Copa America
His final game as coach was on Sunday, a 3-0 loss to Venezuela, resulting in the team bowing out of the Copa America without a win
Hallgrimsson
Richards
