Caribbean National Weekly June 20. 2024

DIASPORA LAUDED

for key contributions at record-breaking conference

“Our diaspora and the support of our diaspora are absolutely critical to our survival as a nation ” Those are the words of Jamaica's Opposition Leader Mark Golding who, alongside Prime Minister Andrew Holness, hailed the contributions of Jamaicans living abroad during this week's Jamaica Diaspora Conference

continues on B3 – Diaspora Lauded

Two Jamaican-Americans to sit on Broward County Commission for first time in history

For the first time in history, the Broward County Commission will have two JamaicanAmericans occupying seats

This comes as Alexandra P Davis, the Vice Mayor of Miramar, secured the Broward County Commission Seat for District 7 without opposition following the close of qualifying on June 14

Davis will officially take on her new role

Caribbean fash pioneer Kingsl Cooper has died

after the elections on November 5, continuing her service on the Miramar Commission until then

Expressing her gratitude on social media, Davis posted, “I must first thank God for his mercies for they endureth forever! Thank you to my family, my mother may her soul rest in peace, my son for believing in me and my abilities, my siblings, many cousins my

Judge orders $6.2M i restitution for forme Haitian president's widow and son

campaign team, my community I ran over 13 years ago to make a difference in Miramar and I hope that that difference has been felt! Now l am Broward County Commissioner Elect for District 7 which comprises parts of Miramar, Pembroke Pines, and Hollywood and I will continue my track record of making things happen for the people I represent! Just know that I love you, will work hard for you and there's nothing you can do about it!”

Another Jamaican-American Broward County Commissioner Hazelle Rogers is also running unopposed for re-election in Broward's District 9

Both Rogers and Davis have a long history in public service

The Kingston-born Rogers began her political career in 1996 when she was elected to

continues on B1 – Commissioners

STRICTLY LEGAL

Biden unveils Executive Action to shield undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens

Fraser-Pryce starts season with 11.15 sec. victory

Jamaica Diaspora Conference 2024

Jamaicas

Jamaicas Minister of Foreign Affairs Kamina Johnson Smith (center) shares a moment with (from le) President, Jamaican Women of Florida, Aisha Rainford; High Commissioner of Jamaica to Canada, Marsha Coore Lobban; Ambassador of Jamaica to Belgium and Head of Mission to the

Union (EU), Symone Beon Nayo; and Consul General of Jamaica to New York, Alsion Wilson during the Conference Photo: JIS Prime Minister Andrew Holness is pictured with

Photo: Danielle Bishop

Courtney Campbell (right), President and CEO of VM Group, legacy sponsor for the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, is pictured with Jamaica's Consul General for Southern

Oliver Mair at the 10th Biennial Diaspora Conference on June 19

Photo: Danielle Bishop

Reggae singer Gramps Morgan (right) receives a Governor-General Achievement Awards from GovernorGeneral Patrick Allen during the 10th Biennial Diaspora Conference

Jamaican-American

photo at the10th

Diaspora Conference in Montego Bay, Jamaica, held this week Photo: Danielle Bishop

Marsha Rose, Development & Markeng Manager for Food For the Poor (le) and Annlee Armstrong-Bishop, represenng Housing Foundaon of America, Inc. (right) are pictured with Jamaica's Ambassador to the US. Audrey Marks at the recent Jamaica Diaspora Conference Photo: Danielle Bishop

Caribbean fashion pioneer Kingsley Cooper has died

Kingsley Cooper, a pioneer in the Jamaican fashion industry, attorney, and the founder of Pulse Investments, has died at the age of 71.

Cooper had reportedly been hospitalized in Florida before his passing Pulse Investments, in a statement late Tuesday night, confirmed his death

“It is with the greatest sadness that Pulse Investments Limited Announces that Chairman and founder Kingsley Cooper CD died peacefully this evening,” the statement read, in part

Cooper's legacy as a fashion pioneer extends far beyond Jamaica, impacting the entire Caribbean region He played a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing an international modeling industry for the Caribbean, discovering and developing numerous supermodels and international stars

In 1980, Cooper, alongside fellow attorney Hilary Phillips, founded Pulse Modeling Agency The agency became a cornerstone for top modeling agencies such as Ford and Wilhelmina, paving the way for Jamaican models like Lois Samuels, Nadine Willis, and Althea Laing Laing made history as the first Jamaican model to appear on the cover of Essence magazine, achieving this milestone twice She gained prominence in 1985 after winning the Miss Jamaica Fashion Model title, an event organized by Pulse

Samuels, who graced the cover of Vogue twice, and Willis, a former exotic dancer who became the face of Gucci's fall/winter campaign in 2003, were among Pulse's notable discoveries Willis's rapid ascent in the fashion industry saw her featured in major magazines across Paris, Milan, New York, Miami, and Los Angeles

Pulse Investments, the first of its kind in the Caribbean for fashion production, modeling, and entertainment, was later listed on the Jamaica Stock Exchange Under Cooper's leadership, Pulse introduced several innova-

tions and firsts for Jamaica and the Caribbean In 2001, Cooper launched Caribbean Fashion Week to spotlight regional and local designers The event has since showcased over 150 designers from various countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Trinidad and Tobago, and Haiti Other notable initiatives included the Caribbean Model Search, an international modeling agency, the Superjam concert series, and the highly acclaimed TV programs Caribbean Fashion Weekly and The Search for the Caribbean's Next Supermodel Born in Kingston on June 3, 1953, Cooper was educated at Kingston College, The University of the West Indies, and the Norman Manley Law School He practiced law from 1975 to 1980 before fully dedicating himself to

Pulse In recognition of his contributions to the modeling industry, he was awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander in 2007 Cooper's daughter, Safia, is the current CEO of Pulse Investments The company has expanded to include hospitality and media branches, producing various TV titles for Caribbean and international broadcasters The Pulse Centre on Trafalgar Road, controlled by the company, features a mix of shops, offices, beauty service outlets, and Pulse Rooms, a 26unit guest accommodation Additionally, Pulse operates Pulse Suites at Villa Ronai in Stony Hill, a 75-unit property on 9 acres, with plans for a 30-unit Pulse Homes development at Villa Ronai

Kingsley Cooper's visionary work has left an indelible mark on the Caribbean fashion industry, and his legacy will continue through the ongoing efforts of Pulse Investments

Cooper

Kingsley Cooper with daughter Saa

Kingsley Cooper received the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander in 2007

Caribbean News

HAITI: Haitian leaders oust police chief and appoint a new one

Three Bahamians recognized in King's birthday Honours

In a notable announcement, Bahamas' Governor General Dame Cynthia “Mother” Pratt revealed that three distinguished Bahamians, including the Secretary to the Cabinet, have been honored in the 2024 King's Birthday Honours

The King's Birthday Honours are part of a United Kingdom tradition that dates back to at least 1860 during Queen Victoria's reign These honors are bestowed on the sovereign's official birthday and form one of the two annual honors lists in the British honors system, the other being the New Year's Honours List

Gerald 'Gerry' DeVeaux, a celebrated Bahamian songwriter, producer, and creative director, has been conferred the prestigious title of Knight Bachelor This honor recognizes DeVeaux's significant contributions to humanity and the entertainment industry

Sir Gerry DeVeaux, as he will now be known, has an impressive career He has served as a contributing editor for the style magazine Tatler and as a style consultant for

MTV Networks, co-hosting shows like MTV Style and contributing to programs such as Who Wore What DeVeaux has also achieved considerable success in the music industry, with multiplatinum hits like “Be My Baby” for French singer/actress Vanessa Paradis and international hits for Lenny Kravitz, including

“Heaven Help ” His work extends to writing and producing hits for Kylie Minogue and Angie Stone, whom he signed to his label, DeVox Records Notably, the Angie Stone album Black Diamond, co-produced by DeVeaux, was voted Best Album of the Year by Billboard and achieved international platinum status He has also written hits for Chaka Khan, including “Never Miss the Water ”

Two other Bahamians have been honored with the Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George for their exceptional public service

Marsha Nicole Campbell, the Secretary to the Cabinet, has been recognized for her dedication to public service While Dr Franklin Walkine has been honored for his contributions to public health Dr Walkine's company, Air Ambulance Service provides critical medical transport, offering access to emergency and specialized care within The Bahamas, Turks & Caicos Islands, and Florida His service ensures that essential medical care is available even in remote locations

The Order of St Michael and St George is bestowed in recognition of extraordinary service in a foreign country or in relation to foreign and Commonwealth affairs

Jamaicans encouraged to ramp up blood donation

Jamaicans are being urged to consider blood donation as a routine activity to help double the island's annual blood collection from 30,000 to 60,000 liters

This call was made during a World Blood Donor Day event organized by the Ministry of Health and Wellness

At the event held at the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) headquarters in Kingston, Permanent Secretary Dunstan Bryan highlighted the critical importance of each blood donation in saving lives

He emphasized the flawless safety record of the NBTS, ensuring that all transfusions are conducted without compromising patient safety

Bryan also stressed the personal responsibility associated with blood donation, encouraging individuals to manage their health proactively to remain eligible donors

To increase blood donation rates, operational days at the Spanish Town Hospital Blood Collection Centre in St Catherine will be extended

Starting from June 24, the center will open on both Mondays and Saturdays, facilitating more donors

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The ministry is also set to launch the EDelphyn Software, an advanced platform designed to streamline blood donation processes

This software will be instrumental in organizing blood drives, tracking donor records, and maintaining a safe and efficient blood supply

Ian Stein, a representative from the PanAmerican Health Organization (PAHO),

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underscored the essential role of blood transfusions in extending the lives of patients with severe medical conditions

He mentioned PAHO's efforts to increase voluntary blood donations to ensure timely access to safe blood supplies

Sonya Binns Lawrence, recognized as the Top Female Voluntary Donor, shared her passion for blood donation with JIS News

She described it as a personal mission fueled by the transformative stories of those saved by these critical donations

The event celebrated the theme '20 Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You, Blood Donors', marking two decades of contributions from donors who have continuously supported the blood bank, ensuring its readiness for any crisis

The NBTS, a key agency under the Ministry of Health and Wellness, remains dedicated to the safe collection and storage of blood, pivotal for medical transfusions

GUYANA: Police investigate shooting of 6-year-old girl

Cause of gastro outbreak in Grenada identified

The Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has identified the cause of the gastroenteritis outbreak in Grenada

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shawn Charles stated: “We have confirmed sapovirus, salmonella and E Coli as the causes of the gastroenteritis outbreak we are currently experiencing,” Dr Charles said

The Ministry of Health in its weekly report for the period ending June 9 said that there had been 155 cases of gastroenteritis recorded in both the public and private health sector, a 27 per cent increase over the previous week

Gastroenteritis is described as acute (sudden) onset of diarrhoea, with or without fever A person with the gastro will experience three or more loose or watery stools in a 24 hours period, with or without dehydration, vomiting and/or visible blood

Dr Charles said that the sapovirus and the other bacteria are all spread through unhealthy hygienic practices such as not washing hands after using the toilet or changing the diapers of babies and the elderlies

“There is no specific treatment or vaccine for sapovirus The illness subsides on its own within a week,” he added

The primary mode of transmission of the sapovirus is through the faecal-oral route Sapovirus can be transmitted by food or water contaminated with the virus, by contact with the vomit or faeces from infected persons or by contact with contaminated objects

E Coli and salmonella are both bacteria that can cause food poisoning Ecoli is spread through infected animals or people whereas salmonella occurs in raw poultry, eggs, beef, and occasionally unwashed fruits and vegetables

DeVeaux

US investigates smuggling links between Colombia, Venezuela, and Guyana

The United States is actively probing a gold smuggling operation that threads through Colombia, Venezuela, and Guyana, highlighting the complex nature of transnational crime and its implications on international relations

Investigations began under Guyana's previous administration led by the People's Progressive Party Civic (PPPC)

However, Raphael Trotman, the former Minister of Natural Resources, indicated that these efforts were disrupted by political changes Following the PPP's return to power in 2020, local initiatives by the APNU+AFC coalition to combat gold smuggling were abruptly halted

Trotman disclosed that a particularly secretive intelligenceled operation, nicknamed for its unique focus, was shut down within five days of the new administration's inception

The US Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control recently highlighted the significant economic impact of these smuggling activities

From 2019 to 2023, Mohamed's Enterprise, a key player in the scandal, reportedly failed to declare over ten thousand kilograms of gold in import and export documents

This omission led to more than $50 million in evaded duty

taxes to the Government of Guyana

The operation not only skirted financial regulations but also raised alarms about the potential financing of activities detrimental to US security interests

US Ambassador Nicole Theriot emphasized the discreet nature of such international investigations, drawing parallels with domestic protocols in the United States

She explained that detailed information about ongoing investigations is closely guarded to prevent potential compromises

This approach reflects standard practices where information is only disclosed once investigations reach a mature stage, safeguarding the integrity of the investigative process

The investigation revealed that the illicit gold was not merely a matter of economic concern but also had potential security ramifications The sale proceeds were suspected to finance activities hostile to US interests

This revelation underscores the complexities of tackling international crime that spans multiple jurisdictions and requires substantial intergovernmental cooperation to address effectively

Jamaica commits to strengthening border security

In a significant move to strengthen national security, Jamaica's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang, has reinforced the government's dedication to enhancing border security

At the Overseas Security Advisory Council Aviation Security Conference held at the AC Marriott Hotel in St Andrew on June 17, Dr Chang conveyed the government's vigilant stance on supporting initiatives aimed at securing the nation's borders more effectively

The government is implementing a robust strategy through policy development, legislative measures, and substantial investment in resources to fortify ministries, departments, and agencies directly involved in security operations

This comprehensive approach underscores security as a cornerstone of government policy, with significant resources being channeled into enhancing the operational capabilities of both the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF)

The infusion of increased resources and advanced technological tools into security forces highlights a key aspect of the government's strategy to improve overall security

measures

Dr. Chang noted that these strategic investments are crucial for upgrading the security apparatus and effectively managing both existing and emerging transnational threats

The aviation security conference serves as

a platform for sharing insights and best practices among local and international stakeholders in law enforcement and the aviation industry

Dr. Chang emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to bolster the resilience of Jamaica's aviation sector against threats that could disrupt safe operations

The discussions and collaborative initiatives at the conference are expected to play a pivotal role in further strengthening border security

Highlighting the dual importance of Jamaica as a prime transshipment hub and a popular tourist destination, Dr Chang stressed the government's focus on developing these economic areas while ensuring robust security measures to prevent criminal

activities that could harm the nation's economy, reputation, and the well-being of its citizens

The commitment to securing the borders is seen as essential not only for maintaining safety but also for fostering economic growth and stability

Amy Tachco, Chargé d'Affaires at the United States Embassy in Kingston, also highlighted the critical nature of inter-agency collaboration in effectively addressing the security threats faced

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Haitian News

Judge orders $6.2M in restitution for former Haitian president's widow and son

In a significant legal development, six men convicted in the assassination plot of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse have been ordered to pay his widow and elder son a total of $6 2 million in compensation This restitution order was issued by a federal judge in Miami, highlighting the ongoing ramifications of the tragic event that occurred on July 7, 2021

During the early morning attack on his home in the hills above Haiti's capital, President Moïse was fatally shot twelve times His widow, Martine Moïse, survived the attack and was flown to Jackson Memorial Hospital for treatment of her injuries

According to Miami Herald, U S District Judge Jose Martinez awarded Martine Moïse $5,305,387 to cover her hospital bills, travel, and security expenses upon her return to Haiti ten days after the incident

This restitution amount was jointly recommended by federal prosecutors and defense attorneys after extensive negotiations

Despite Martine Moïse's claims that she was shot in the arm, her injuries have been a contentious topic in Haiti Earlier this year, she was indicted alongside 50 others, including close associates of the late president, in connection with her husband's assassination Joverlein Moïse, the elder son of the late president who now resides in Quebec, Canada, was awarded $865,396 The judge's order does not clarify why the six convicted individuals are responsible for compensating Joverlein, who was not present at the scene However, he filed a motion in a Port-au-

Prince court to join the investigation, a move that under Haiti's French-style legal system allows crime victims to seek damages from the perpetrators

The effectiveness of this restitution order remains uncertain, as only one of the six convicted men is known to have any assets This raises questions about how much Martine Moïse and her son will ultimately receive

There's also a tinge of irony in the federal judge's order to compensate the widow: Although U.S. authorities view Martine Moïse as a “victim” in her husband's fatal shooting, in Haiti she's accused of playing a

role in the assassination plot Martine Moïse's attorney in South Florida, Paul Turner, has dismissed the allegations by a Haitian investigative judge as “nonsense” and “politically motivated,” asserting that she had no prior knowledge of the assassination plan Turner said he and Martine Moïse, who is currently living in South Florida, were grateful that a settlement was reached between the prosecutors and defense lawyers rather than her being forced to testify about the hospital bills and other expenses in a court hearing before the federal judge in Miami

Escalating crisis in Haiti drives mass displacement

Recent data reveals a 60 per cent increase in displaced Haitians since March, pushing the total to approximately 580,000 individuals seeking refuge from gang violence

This alarming trend underscores the deepening humanitarian crisis in Haiti, according to a report from the United Nations' International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Philippe Branchat, head of the IOM, highlights that the current displacement figures are the culmination of years of escalating violence, which peaked in February

This ongoing turmoil has forced many Haitians to abandon their homes, with some experiencing displacement multiple times

Despite the fact that the year is not yet half over, the number of displaced individuals has nearly reached the total for the entirety of 2023

Haiti, with a population of around 10 million, saw a new government formation recently

This government is striving to stabilize the nation after enduring prolonged disruptions primarily caused by gang conflicts, particularly in Port-au-Prince

The violence intensified at the end of February when armed factions in the capital declared their intention to overthrow then-Prime Minister Ariel Henry

Following these developments, Henry resigned in early March, proposing a transitional council aimed at guiding Haiti towards elections remarkably, the country has not held elections since 2016

A new acting prime minister and cabinet have since been appointed in an effort to restore order

Martine Moïse

Joverlein Moïse

Editorial

Is democracy failing?

There's a current perception among political analysts in the United States and elsewhere that Democracy or left-wing politics is failing, with a definite shift towards the political right or conservatism

The results of recent elections in Europe, including France, Germany, and Spain, where conservative parties have gained significant victories have fueled this perception In the U S , recurring political polls are showing a stubborn shift to the right

Conservatism emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional institutions, customs, and moral values Conservatives generally advocate for less involvement of government in people's lives, favoring individual responsibility and free market principles; they often emphasize the importance of personal responsibility, selfreliance, and hard work, and tend to be wary of social programs to help the marginalized in the society; they believe economic prosperity is best achieved through minimal government intervention in the economy They usually advocate for fiscal responsibility, including balanced budgets and limited government spending

Conservatives also tend to be cautious about rapid or radical societal change, preferring gradual, incremental change that preserves stability And, while not universal, many conservatives value religion's role in society and its influence on personal morality

With democracy, citizens exercise power by voting; power resides with the people, who elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, and all citizens have similar political rights and opportunities Citizens also have the freedom to express their opinions, form political parties, and participate in the political process

In democracies, everyone, including the government, must follow the law, and while decisions are made by the majority, the rights of minorities are protected Democrats usually tend to provide a social net to assist the poor and marginalized to find food, healthcare, and shelter and also provide for the welfare of seniors, and retired citizens

Within Democracies elected officials are

accountable to the people, and government should be transparent Elections are free, fair, and competitive, allowing for a peaceful transfer of power Democracy respects and protects the fundamental rights of individuals including the freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to vote

Frankly, in today's world, there's a blurring of the tenets of democracy and conservatism, as the people, voters, look towards both conservatives and democrats whenever either are in government to meet their hopes

For the population of most countries, the core of politics is hope People hope for a better life or standard of living and look to political leaders to fulfill this hope It's the hope that people harbor that influences politicians to emerge with promises, based on either democratic or conservative values, to turn these hopes into reality But invariably what has been happening is that the promises of politicians usually turn out to be hollow, and they fail the people

American politician and civil rights leader Jesse Jackson once rallied on the theme “keep hope alive," but people don't want to keep living in hope. They want hope to be realized. In 2007 Barack Obama succeeded in his presidential bid, promising a change to fulfill the hopes of most Americans But, although he certainly tried during his eight years as president, these hopes were not all fulfilled, leaving some voters to turn to conservative promises

Democracy offers people an option to vote for leaders they believe are most likely to turn their hopes into reality. Most people globally hope for jobs, higher wages, better education, good, affordable healthcare, safe communities, affordable housing, and the support of a benevolent government when their backs are against the financial wall But when democratic leaders and parties fail to meet these hopes, the people, as they now seem to be doing, flee from democracy to opposing conservative leaders and parties who, ironically, basically are making similar promises as the democrats

Looking at democracy in America and other countries, reasons for the perceived failure of

democracy and the rise of conservatism seem complex, but there are several similarities, including:

Economic Anxiety: Many people feel left behind by the economic policies of democrats, leading them to turn to more conservative economic policies that prioritize job security and protectionism

Identity Politics: There's a resurgence of identity politics, with some groups and communities feeling marginalized and turning to conservative ideologies that emphasize traditional values and cultural identity

Disillusionment with Establishment Politics: Some people are disillusioned with mainstream politicians, political parties, and institutions, leading them to seek alternatives, including more conservative or populist, cult-like leaders and movements

Media Influence: Conservative media have grown in influence, increasingly shaping public opinion and promoting conservative ideologies

International Trends: There's a rise in conservative and populist movements, which is influencing the political landscape in other countries

The world seems locked in a powerful conundrum Neither democracy nor conservatism are fulfilling the hopes of most people Voters shift from one ideology to the other only to be disappointed Perhaps, as some have suggested, there's an urgent need for a hybrid ideology embracing tenets of both democracy and conservatism, because while conservatism and democracy fail people, autocracy hovers

Strictly Legal

Biden Unveils Executive Action to Shield

Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens

In a significant move ahead of the election, President Joe Biden announced a new executive action aimed at protecting undocumented spouses of American citizens, potentially shielding approximately 500,000 immigrants from deportation

The White House revealed the policy on Tuesday, branding it as “ new action to keep families together ”NBC News had reported that such a measure was imminent, following strong advocacy from immigration proponents and Democratic lawmakers, as Biden seeks to strengthen his appeal to Latino voters in critical battleground states

The policy permits noncitizens who have resided in the U S for at least 10 years and are married to American citizens, along with their children, to apply for permanent residency without having to leave the country

During a White House ceremony, President Biden described the initiative as a "commonsense fix" to an immigration system he deemed "cumbersome, risky, and separating families " He emphasized that the policy, set to take effect this summer, is designed for long-standing residents contributing to the economy, not recent arrivals “This is about helping those who are paying taxes and contributing to our country,” Biden stated

An immigration advocate familiar with the policy highlighted its significance, comparing it to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program initiated by President Barack Obama in 2012 “This is the biggest thing since DACA,” the source said

Anticipating potential opposition, the White House underscored its ongoing efforts to secure the border and combat human smuggling "The president believes that securing the border is essential," the adminis-

tration asserted in a news release

"He also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together, recognizing that immigrants who have been in the United States for decades, paying taxes and contributing to their communities, are part of the social fabric of our country "The statement noted that the spouses eligible under this policy have lived in the U S. for an average of 23 years Additionally, the action proposes to facilitate the process for undocumented immigrants to obtain green cards and eventually citizenship, with provisions for work permits on a case-by-case basis

Further, DACA recipients who have earned higher education degrees and are seeking employment in their field would benefit from expedited work visas

However, the executive action has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans Former President Donald Trump, at a campaign rally

in Wisconsin, vowed to revoke the policy if reelected “It’s been a nonstop catastrophe, but one of crooked Joe's most destructive moves yet is the lawless executive action he's taken today,” Trump declared “Under this program, a deluge of illegals will be given immediate green cards and put on the fast track to rapid citizenship so they can vote ” House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La , echoed this sentiment, condemning the policy as "granting amnesty to hundreds of thousands of illegal aliens" and warning it would "incentivize more illegal immigration and endanger Americans "The new program, impacting about 500,000 spouses and potentially 50,000 children, is expected to face legal challenges

• It will allow eligible applicants to work and live in the U S. legally on a temporary basis under the immigration parole authority.

• The Biden administration's policy would allow eligible immigrants to obtain a green card without having to leave the U S

• Administration officials estimate that roughly 500,000 unauthorized immigrants with U S. citizen spouses will qualify for the program.

• The policy is also expected to benefit an estimated 50,000 immigrant children with a parent who is married to a U S. citizen, officials said Undocumented stepchildren of U S. citizens — who must also leave the country to obtain green cards — will be eligible to apply for the parole process if they are under the age of 21.

Family Based Filings

Lawful Permanent Residence Abuse Spouse/VAWA

Visa Extension Removal of Condition Interview Preparation Hardship Waivers Citizenship Deportation Defense

Strictly Legal

Running with Ron

The New Laws Shaping Florida's Future

by Omar Patrice Contributor

In 2024, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis continues to define his legacy with a series of groundbreaking and contentious legislative actions These new laws, spanning healthcare, education, child protection, and public safety, are not only transforming Florida but also igniting national debates

Healthcare Reforms

The “Live Healthy” legislation package, a hallmark of DeSantis' 2024 agenda, is set to revolutionize Florida's healthcare landscape

This comprehensive set of laws is designed to bolster the state's healthcare workforce, particularly in underserved areas, and foster technological innovation in the healthcare sector For example, Senate Bill 7016 expands healthcare training programs to meet the needs of Florida's growing population. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 7018 encourages innovation in healthcare through partnerships with entrepreneurs and industry leaders Additionally, Senate Bill 1758 formalizes programs under the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, and Senate Bill 330 establishes new teaching hospitals focused on behavioral health care

“We are taking action to bolster our healthcare workforce to keep pace with our state's unprecedented growth,” DeSantis said during a signing ceremony in Bonita Springs These reforms are positioned to ensure that Florida remains a leader in healthcare quality and accessibility

Education and Child Protection

Governor DeSantis has also prioritized protecting children and restructuring educational policies through a series of new laws

The “anti-grooming” legislation introduces harsher penalties for sexual offenses against minors and provides law enforcement with enhanced tools to combat these crimes

House Bill 1545, for example, prohibits harmful communication to minors and increases penalties for child exploitation

House Bill 1131 establishes an Online Sting Operations Grant Program to aid in the capture of online predators Furthermore, House Bill 1235 sets stricter guidelines for sex

offender registration, and Senate Bill 1224 enhances the role of the Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office, implementing new training requirements for better assessment of domestic violence situations

“A child's safety and innocence should never be compromised,” said Executive of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Director Dave Kerner

“Governor DeSantis has always been a strong supporter of families, and today's bill signings are just another example of his dedication and leadership ”

Tax Relief and Economic Measures

In a significant move to support Florida's economy, DeSantis approved a substantial tax relief package, providing over $1 billion in cuts This initiative, codified in House Bill 7063, aims to reduce the tax burden on families and businesses, reinforcing Florida's appeal as a prime destination for new residents and enterprises The governor's office emphasized that these tax cuts are designed to support the state's growing economy and enhance the financial wellbeing of Floridians

“These tax cuts are a win for Florida

Constitutional challenges arise in Antigua and Barbuda over abortion laws

The ongoing debate over the constitutional validity of the antiquated abortion laws in Antigua and Barbuda is intensifying

Recently, the government took a stance on the issue, announcing its decision to leave the fate of the country's restrictive anti-abortion statutes to the judiciary

This decision came in the wake of a constitutional lawsuit initiated by activists, including prominent local healthcare professionals last week

These campaigners are pushing for legislative reforms that will protect a woman's autonomy in making reproductive choices

Lionel Hurst, a Cabinet spokesperson, articulated that the government's position is to refrain from commenting on ongoing legal proceedings

He noted that the resolution of this contentious issue should reflect the consensus of Antigua and Barbuda's residents and religious communities

Despite the heated discussions, Hurst clarified that the current laws would remain effective until potentially overturned by a higher court mandate

The courts are expected to review the case in September Hurst underscored the govern-

ment's commitment to adhering to the judiciary's directives, indicating that any forthcoming legal changes would prompt corresponding legislative actions

Under the current “Offences of the Person Act,” terminating a pregnancy is punishable by up to ten years in prison for the woman involved, with an accomplice facing up to two years

The only legal exception is in situations where the woman's life is endangered

The anticipation of the court's ruling brings these harsh penalties under increased scrutiny as the nation grapples with modernizing its approach to women's rights

families and businesses,” DeSantis said “They will keep our state's economy growing and provide much-needed relief ”

Public Safety and Governance

Public safety remains a cornerstone of DeSantis' legislative agenda. New laws enacted this year have increased penalties for various crimes and boosted funding for police departments Additionally, the state has introduced legislation to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in political advertising through House Bill 919, and to strengthen the juvenile justice system via House Bill 1425, which updates legal frameworks and increases support for affected youths

Political Implications

Governor DeSantis' legislative agenda is reshaping Florida and positioning him as a prominent figure in the national political landscape His policies, often seen as a template for conservative governance, resonate strongly with his base and could pave the way for a potential presidential bid The impact of these laws will unfold in the coming years, shaping the lives of Floridians and potentially influencing American politics at large

Whether viewed as necessary reforms or controversial overreaches, Governor DeSantis' actions are leaving an indelible mark on Florida As the state navigates these changes, the nation watches closely, observing the outcomes of his assertive policies

*The views or comments expressed in this article are not necessarily shared by the Caribbean National Weekly or CNW Network

Commissioners

fromA1

office in Lauderdale Lakes, where she served for 12 years, making her the first person from the English-speaking Caribbean-American community elected to office in the southeastern United States She was the only woman on her sevenmember commission She was later elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2008, making her the first Jamaican and second person from the English-speaking Caribbean to be elected to the House; she was re-elected subsequently. In 2016, the voters in Lauderdale Lakes elevated her with a 66 percent vote to the office of Mayor In 2020, she ran unopposed for another 4year term

On the other hand, Davis's journey in politics began in 2010 when she was first elected to the Miramar Commission She served until 2014 when she gave up her seat to unsuccessfully challenge Broward Commissioner Barbara Sheriff for her seat Davis, of Jamaican heritage, was born in England and raised in Jamaica She has spent most of her life in public service, including at the Ministry of Agriculture in Kingston, Jamaica, The Capital Taxes office in London, England, and the Miami-Dade County Government In 2019, she was re-elected to the Miramar commission for a second time She has also served as Vice Mayor of the city twice Broward County, Florida, is home to a vibrant and diverse Caribbean-American population, with a particularly strong presence of Jamaican immigrants and their descendants In 2010, Dale Holness became the first Jamaican-American elected to the Broward County Commission. He became mayor of the county in 2019

Hurst

Community & the Diaspora

PICA encourages Jamaican diaspora to apply for ePassports

Ex-husband detained after Jamaican woman fatally stabbed in the US

Three incumbent commissioners re-elected to Broward County Commission

Three incumbent Broward County commissioners will retain their seats on the county commission after the November general election.

Commissioners Steve Geller, Hazelle Rogers, and Michael Udine are returning for new terms Alongside them, Alexandra Davis, currently the vice mayor of Miramar, will be stepping into a county seat unopposed, marking her debut on the County Commission

The candidate qualifying period concluded on Friday, and the final results were updated on the Supervisor of Elections website last Saturday

This will mark the first time that the Broward County Commission will have two Jamaican-Americans occupying seats: Hazelle Rogers and Alexandra Davis

In Miramar, Davis has a long history of public service, having served as a commissioner since 2010, with a brief hiatus from November 2014 to March 2019 due to a previous run for the County Commission She will now represent the county's District 7, which includes parts of Hollywood, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, and tribal land. This seat is currently held by Commissioner Tim Ryan, who is stepping down due to term limits

Commissioners can serve a maximum of three four-year terms

Still to be decided in November will be a race for Broward County Commission's District 1, which serves Weston and parts of Miramar, Pembroke Pines, and Southwest Ranches The incumbent is Mayor Nan Rich, who has a single challenger, Herbert Vargas

Broward County commissioners oversee county services such as libraries, regional parks, tax collection, property assessments, buses, Port Everglades, the medical examiner's office, and the airport They also set the county budget, which determines tax rates for property owners

Udine represents District 3, which serves parts of Coral Springs, North Lauderdale, Parkland, Sunrise and Tamarac

Rogers represents District 9, which includes parts of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale Lakes, Lauderhill, Oakland Park, Plantation and Sunrise

Geller represents District 5, which includes the entirety of Davie, Cooper City, and portions of unincorporated areas, Plantation, Southwest Ranches, Sunrise, and tribal land north of Stirling Road, including the Guitar Hotel and Hard Rock

For the other commissioners in Districts 2, 4, 6, and 8, their terms will end in 2026

Advocates rally for citizenship opportunities for Caribbean DACA recipients

DeSantis discusses recovery efforts amid severe flooding in South Florida

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took center stage in Hollywood on Friday morning to confront the aftermath of intense rainfall that inundated South Florida due to a tropical disturbance

Accompanied by Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue, DeSantis underscored the severity of the situation

City officials in Hollywood reported nearly 20 inches of rainfall since Tuesday, exacerbating flooding conditions

In Fort Lauderdale, similar challenges persisted, prompting Mayor’s acknowledgment of the city’s ongoing struggle

Despite the disruption caused by flooding, residents of Hollywood expressed relief on Friday morning as water levels began to recede from inundated streets, necessitating the towing of stranded vehicles

DeSantis disclosed that over 100 pumps are operational to mitigate the flooding’s impact He emphasized continuous coordination with the Florida Department of Transportation and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to aid in recovery efforts

With more rain expected, DeSantis reassured the public of South Florida’s preparedness to manage the crisis

However, city officials in Hollywood pressed for additional pumps to bolster flood control measures as they brace for forthcoming weather challenges

June 21

Rogers

Geller

Udine

Broward County

appoints Joseph

Morris as new port director

The Broward County Commission has confirmed the County Administrator's appointment of Joseph Morris as Port Director of Broward County's Port Everglades Department

Morris currently serves as the Port Director for the Massachusetts Port Authority where he has worked for four years, originally as Deputy Port Director of Operations He is expected to begin at Port Everglades on July 15, 2024

“As one of the leading economic engines in Broward County, it is essential that we continue to have a strong leader at the helm of Port Everglades Joe was selected after an exhaustive national search that included input from a variety of port stakeholders Joe is a visionary who brings vast international experience and understands the vital economic role that a seaport plays in a community,” said Broward County Administrator Monica Cepero

“Joe has proven to be an exceptional leader throughout his private sector and public service career in the port industry, with more than 25 years of diverse experience in seaport, transportation, government, and business management ”

At Port Everglades, Joseph Morris will oversee the seaport's vast maritime business that generates more than $26 5 billion in economic activity statewide annually, supports nearly 11,000 local direct jobs, and results in more than $925 million in state and local taxes

“The County and Port Everglades have an unparalleled reputation for cultivating an inclusive economic environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, and I'm looking forward to joining the staff and its community partners in advancing the Port's position locally, regionally, and globally,” said Morris

During his time at the Massachusetts Port Authority, Morris has been responsible for managing cargo and cruise operations, multiple real estate properties, five public parks, and public access properties

He steers business development efforts, including the first new shipping line to call Boston home in more than seven years, and develops capital investment plans Morris also oversees 51 staff in the Massport Police Department, responsible for port facility security at terminals (cruise, container) as well as in the public domain (parks, and areas of South Boston)

Morris has worked with government authorities representing multiple countries including Costa Rica, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Great Britain, and led teams responsible for planning vessel, rail, gate, and yard operations for the largest container terminal in the United States of America, APM Terminals Los Angeles

Morris has a bachelor's degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix

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Community

Miami-Dade County Public Schools secures $8M grant for electric buses

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) is taking another big step towards greener transportation The district has been awarded an $8 8 million Clean School Bus grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

This substantial funding will enable MDCPS to add up to 25 electric buses to its fleet, aiming to have approximately 125 electric buses on the road by 2026

The grant isn't just for the buses themselves It also covers the installation of charging stations and the training of lead mechanics through the Bluebird Technician Academy This comprehensive approach ensures the district is well-prepared to maintain and operate the new buses effectively

As part of the grant agreement, M-DCPS will provide the EPA with up to 25 diesel buses, matching the number of new electric buses funded This swap will significantly reduce the district's reliance on diesel, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment for students and the community

This isn't the first time M-DCPS has benefited from the Clean School Bus grant

In January, the district received $19.7 million to purchase 50 electric buses Additionally, through the Florida Volkswagen Mitigation Settlement Trust, MDCPS rolled out 35 buses this past school year and plans to have 15 more on the road by next year

With the addition of the 25 new buses from the latest grant, M-DCPS is set to achieve its goal of having up to 125 electric

such as a child reminder button and a cooling mechanism for the electric batteries, ensuring the wellbeing of all on board

BSO officer found dead in southwest Miami-Dade

A Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) deputy who works at the Broward County courthouse took his own life Tuesday morning on a Homestead street in Miami-Dade, according to the Miami Herald Miami-Dade police and officers from other agencies lined up along Southwest 320th Street near 130th Avenue, where a body lay next to a BSO cruiser

According to Miami-Dade police Detective Angel Rodriguez, officers responded to 911 reports from a passerby of an “officer down” in the area around 6:30 a m

The Broward Sheriff's office released a statement that read in part:

Diaspora Lauded

From June 16-19, Jamaicans and other stakeholders from all over the world gathered in Montego Bay for the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference

This year's staging achieved its largest number of registrants ever, with over 1,100 individuals have registered, surpassing the government's target of 1,000 participants

While addressing the audience on Day 2 of the conference, Prime Minister Holness has extended his gratitude to the members of the Jamaican diaspora for their steadfast support and contributions to the nation's development

“Thank you for choosing Jamaica. I don't take it for granted that you would pay your way, put other things off, make plans [and] come to this Conference it does mean a lot to your government

“Your presence here is a clear testament to the decision to broaden the scope of diaspora engagement to nontraditional areas It also speaks volumes about your unwavering loyalty and commitment to our beloved Jamaica,” he said

Holness highlighted that the efforts to transform Jamaica are producing positive results, pointing to successful projects in various sectors including the economy, healthcare, national security, unemployment, and productivity

The country's economic growth was a major talking point for the Prime Minister, as he proudly pointed out that despite facing global challenges, Jamaica has experienced 12 consecutive quarters of growth post-COVID19

“Jamaica has now experienced 12 consecutive quarters of economic growth since the pandemic It is worth recalling that prior to the pandemic, we enjoyed 20 consecutive quarters of economic growth and

"(Our) primary concern is supporting the deputy's family and co-workers, ensuring they have the resources and care they need to process and grieve this tragedy The deputy has been employed at the Broward Sheriff's Office for 16 years and was off duty at the time of his death "

The IUPA BSO Deputies union issued a statement saying in part: "It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the tragic loss of a deputy from the Broward Sheriff's Office, who was also a valued member of the International Union of Police Associations, Local We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of our fallen deputy

“I want to recognize and place on record the appreciation of the government for the tremendous support and contribution of the diaspora. When tourism earnings fell off [and] went down to literally zero, it was the members of the diaspora who shared their income with their Jamaican families” – PM Holness

this was the longest unbroken period of economic expansion since our independence,” Holness said Holness also expressed gratitude to diaspora members for their support of local families and communities during the COVID-

"The loss of a fellow deputy has deeply affected us all, underscoring the urgent need to address mental health issues within our ranks and the broader community Suicide is a devastating reality that impacts countless lives It is crucial for everyone to recognize the signs of someone in distress and to reach out for help when needed If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that support is available You are not alone "

The deputy's identity has not been disclosed and the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death and the manner

19 pandemic, when the tourism industry, a major earner for the country, had shuttered

Similarly, People's National Party leader Mark Golding highlighted that the contributions of Jamaicans in the diaspora are critical to the country

“We are a migratory people and we always have been; and as it stands today, the Jamaicans living abroad constitute more or less similar number to those living on the rock itself Our diaspora and the support of our diaspora are absolutely critical to our survival as a nation They are the largest provider of foreign exchange to our country

“They support our balance of payments, they support the value of our currency and, indeed, during the pandemic when the other critical source of foreign exchange, the tourism industry, basically shut down, Jamaica was able to get through it without any balance of payments or exchange rate crisis because of the stepping up of our diasporans in support of our country,” he said

In addition to consecutive growth, the Prime Minister also highlighted other positives: A historic low unemployment rate of 4 2 percent and the creation of over 156,000 jobs since 2016; a reduction in Jamaica's debt to GDP ratio, which now stands at 72 percent; and a balance-ofpayment surplus for the fiscal year 2022/23, a significant economic indicator that had not been achieved since 1966

With economic stability now in its bag, the government is turning its attention to addressing the challenges of creating peace in the country and increasing productivity “We have attained economic stability How do we get to now peace and how do we increase productivity?” Holness said

fromA1

Morris

Holness

by Dr. Garth A. Rose

CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Queen Ifrica sued for allegations

made

against father Derrick Morgan

The family of Jamaican ska singer Derrick Morgan has filed a defamation lawsuit against his daughter, popular reggae singer Queen Ifrica, for allegations she made against him in 2023

Merrick Morgan, the son of the 83-yearold ska legend, confirmed they have retained attorney-at-law Charles Ganga-Singh in Jamaica The lawsuit was filed on June 12, 2024, in the Supreme Court of Jamaica, seeking damages for the harm done to Derrick Morgan's reputation

Documents obtained by Observer Online show that Derrick Morgan is suing his daughter, real name Ventrice Morgan, for several allegedly defamatory statements, videos and interviews made on August 1, 2023

“The defendant made several defamatory statements, videos and participated in several interviews hurling defamatory comments about the claimant, published such defamatory statements, videos and interviews and made said defamatory statements available to the public for posting, reposting, republication,” the document said

“Consequently, the claimant has suffered serious injury to his character and reputation, incurred financial loss and damages ”

In August, via social media, Queen Ifrica

“Queen I Freak Ya, you are a disgrace to the Morgan family. You are a wealth of lies and accusations, that is why our lawyers are on the case” – Derrick Morgan

alleged that her father had sexually violated her several years ago

She revealed that as a child, she had an estranged relationship with Morgan due to issues surrounding her mother However, as an adult, she attempted to reconnect with him

Queen Ifrica described a specific incident

where the alleged rape occurred, at his Kingston residence

“Inna the hours, mi go to bed and go lay down pon the bed. Mi father never ready to go to bed yet, and the next thing mi wake up to inna the hours is mi father a penetrate me

Mi wake up inna the hours to mi father trying to penetrate me sexually; hold mi down inna the bed and have sex with me and tell me seh him wife nah have no sex with him, so, him haffi do it with me,” she said

The singer further disclosed that the traumatic incident motivated her to pen the 2009 hit song “Daddy,” which addresses incest

Derrick Morgan later dismissed the allegations on Instagram

“Queen I Freak Ya, you are a disgrace to the Morgan family,” he wrote in a post “You are a wealth of lies and accusations, that is why our lawyers are on the case ” Morgan also highlighted a 2017 interview where Ifrica discussed the inspiration behind the song, emphasizing her admission of wanting to write about incest due to its prevalent impact on people she personally knows

His sons, Courtney and Merrick, had also defended him on various platforms, including on Ifrica's pages

Jamaican Court of Appeal to rule on Vybz Kartel retrial by July 31

The Jamaican Court of Appeal has announced it will deliver its judgment on whether entertainer Vybz Kartel should face a retrial for murder by July 31

The decision follows extensive legal arguments presented by both the defense and the prosecution

“The question of a retrial is never easy for a court of law, especially when [it involves] serious offenses and lengthy delays It's gonna

take us time but the court is mindful of the need for expedition in this matter,” said lead judge

Justice Marva McDonald-Bishop

“The court's judgment is reserved Given the importance of the case, even if we reach a decision, we cannot come back to just give our decision without our reasons for the decision And, that is where the delay usually comes from But, we ' re mindful of all the issues and especially the health issue of one of the

appellants So, we'll do our best and we can say we aim for no later than the end of the term ”

ordeal suffered by the accused is not a sufficient reason to avoid a retrial

Nicole Hall, MPA Director of

On Tuesday, the defense and the prosecution presented their closing arguments Defense attorney Isat Buchanan argued that an acquittal is the only appropriate response to prevent further constitutional breaches against Vybz Kartel and his three coaccused He contended that the prosecution has not shown how they will mitigate these breaches, stating, “The uncertainty of sustaining or continuing the breach elevates the breach ”

On the other hand, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Claudette Thompson asserted that Vybz Kartel and his co-accused should not evade justice due to a technicality Thompson argued that given the seriousness of the offense, the strength of the case, the public interest, and the availability of witnesses, a retrial is justified She maintained that the

The hearing, which began on June 10, saw Justices David Fraser and Paulette Williams presiding alongside McDonald-Bishop Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, along with his co-accused Shawn 'Shawn Storm' Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John, are charged with the 2011 murder of Clive Williams The men were convicted in 2014, and the verdicts were upheld by the Jamaican Court of Appeal in 2020

However, in March 2024, the Privy Council, the country's highest court, overturned the convictions on the grounds of juror misconduct and referred the case back to the appeal court to decide on a retrial

The accused have consistently denied any involvement in Williams' murder

Caribbean film starring Jamaican actress Sherando Ferril makes waves at Cannes

In a monumental achievement for Jamaican and Caribbean cinema, the feature film “Chokehold,” starring Jamaican actress Sherando Ferril, has been showcased at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival

Following its success at Cannes, the film is set to make appearances at both the Essence and Toronto International Film Festivals (TIFF) This marks a historic moment as “Chokehold” is the first film of its kind with a lead actress who not only hails from but also resides in Jamaica, setting a new precedent in the international film arena

Sherando Ferril's performance has been central to the film's success, earning accolades for her portrayal of a complex character navigating themes of gender violence a topic that resonates globally The film's reception at Cannes was nothing short of spectacular, paving the way for its upcoming presentations at other top-tier festivals and spotlighting Jamaican talent on an unprecedented scale

The significance of “Chokehold” extends beyond its artistic achievements It represents a pivotal moment for Jamaica's cultural export in the arts and entertainment sector, akin to the global influence seen with Jamaican sports

figures Recognizing this potential, the Jamaican government has invested one billion dollars into the Jamaica Screen Development Initiative (JSDI), aiming to amplify local content on a global stage This initiative underscores a strong belief in the transformative power of Jamaican films to compete internationally

Joel Ayuk, the director of “Chokehold,” expressed his excitement, saying, “Our film was very well received at Cannes and the feedback was amazing The comments on our cinema-

Queen Ifrica

Ferril

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Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce starts season with 11.15 secs. victory

After an unusually long wait, eighttime Olympic Games medallist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce finally began her 2024 season on Saturday night at the National Stadium, competing in the French Foray meet

Fraser-Pryce finished ahead of the pack in a moderate 11 15 seconds in the women ’ s 100 meters

With high expectations from the crowd inside the National Stadium, many fans left with mixed feelings The typically silky, smooth Fraser-Pryce performance was noticeably absent Uncharacteristically, Fraser-Pryce’s signature bullet start abandoned her, forcing the seasoned Olympian to come from behind to overtake SprinTec’s Jodean Williams 10 meters from the finish line Williams secured second place with a time of 11 20 seconds, while Sabrina Dockery of Lacovia High finished third in 11 46 seconds

Fraser-Pryce, who refused interviews after her run, adds to the growing questions about how well Jamaicans will perform at the upcoming Olympics With just over 10 days remaining before the National Senior Championships, Fraser-Pryce, along with Shericka Jackson and Elaine Thompson Herah who swept the podium at the last Olympic Games in the 100 meters do not seem to be at their best

In other events, Williams also secured second place in the women ’ s 200 meters,

clocking 23 53 seconds to finish just behind Kemba Nelson of Elite Performance Track Club, who won in 23 51 seconds Jura Levy of Legacy Track Club came in third with a time of 24 29 seconds

Ronda Whyte, representing Swept Track Club, captured the women ’ s 400 meters title with a time of 53 59 seconds, followed by

Roneisha McGregor of UWI, Mona, in 54 71 seconds Abrina Wright of Holmwood Technical secured third place with a time of 55 66 seconds

National 100-meter junior record holder Bouwahjgie Nkrumie of Racers Track Club made a rare appearance this season, winning his heat in 10 21 seconds, the fastest overall time Sandrey Davison of Dynamic Speed Track Club won his heat in 10 25 seconds, placing second overall, narrowly edging out schoolboy Deandre Daley of Herbert Morrison, who finished third in 10 26 seconds Ackeem Blake, after his second-place finish behind Nkrumie in 10 30 seconds, was fourth overall

Former national 400 meters champion Javon Francis claimed victory in the men ’ s 200 meters with a time of 21 00 seconds

Jehlani Gordon secured second place in 21 02 seconds, and Davison was third in 21 24 seconds

Assinia Williams of Titans Track Club won the men ’ s 400-meter hurdles in 49 08 seconds, followed by Demar Murray in 50 39 seconds Antonio Forbes of Dynamic Speed Track Club finished third with a time of 51 04 seconds

As the athletes continue to prepare for the National Senior Championships and the Paris Olympics, all eyes will be on their performances in the coming weeks

tography, our music and the performance of our actors rivaled any other film on the roster ” As Sherando Ferril leads this cinematic movement, the need for robust local support becomes ever more apparent Just as Jamaica has historically rallied behind its athletes, there is a burgeoning call for similar support for artists and filmmakers who are now carrying the flag on cultural and creative fronts Corporate backing is especially crucial, providing not only financial resources but also enhancing the global perception of Jamaica as a hub of diverse and compelling storytelling

The involvement of local corporations in supporting arts and entertainment mirrors a strategic investment in Jamaica's cultural legacy and global reputation As “Chokehold” continues to garner international attention and acclaim, the spotlight on Sherando Ferril and her groundbreaking role will hopefully ignite a wider recognition of the arts as a vital component of national pride and international identity

With the film's journey from Cannes to Essence and TIFF, Sherando Ferril and “Chokehold” are not just participating in festivals; they are making history, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers, and advocating for the support that Jamaican artists deserve

To date, “Chokehold” has won more than a dozen awards at global film festivals The film was shot in St Martin and is written, produced, and directed by Joel Ayuk of Cani Studios

Jamaica’s football gets a boost with Wray & Nephew’s $200 million programme

The relationship between Jamaican football and corporate Jamaica has taken a significant step forward with the announcement of the Wray & Nephew Football Programme.

The beloved Jamaican brand unveiled its plans on Thursday, highlighting a substantial investment aimed at enhancing the technical aspects of football in Jamaica, with a particular focus on coaching education and supporting the Reggae Boyz and Reggae Girlz in their World Cup pursuits

The programme will see an investment of approximately $200 million over the next three years, marking a major commitment from Wray & Nephew to the development of Jamaican football

“ Th e Wra y & N e p h e w F o o t b a l l Programme has been created to support our commitment to advance football in Jamaica To that effect, we have decided to increase and widen our support and investment in the beautiful game, ” said Jean-Philippe Beyer, Managing Director at J Wray & Nephew

“Supporting football from grassroots programs to professional leagues is a privilege

for us and I say this because, through this partnership, we are not only seeing the triumphs of our players and our coaches, we are also seeing the positive impacts their achievements have on their families and communities ”

In addition to being the title sponsors of both the Jamaica Premier League (JPL) and the Major League, Wray & Nephew will also serve as the official spirit of the senior Reggae

Boyz and Reggae Girlz, aiding them in their quest to qualify for the World Cup Beyer also revealed plans for the direct sponsorship of several stadiums “We are still in discussions with a number of them but tonight I can announce that we are at the contract stage with Ferdi Neita Park and Waterhouse Mini Stadium,” he said Ferdi Neita Park is the home ground of Portmore United, while Waterhouse Mini Stadium is the

base for Waterhouse FC Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) President Michael Ricketts, who has long advocated for greater corporate involvement in Jamaican football, expressed his elation at the announcement “When we get a positive response from our daily calls from corporate Jamaica to come on board and help us use the sport of football to socially impact the wellbeing of boys and girls in this country, I am absolutely delighted,” he said Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Sport, also recognized the significance of this partnership “This evening, we add another to the many partnerships between Jamaican companies and sporting bodies, communities and the Government over the years, ” she said “This partnership with a Jamaican-born company, J Wray & Nephew Ltd, is a cause for celebration because, not only are we stronger together, but this partnership also highlights our shared passion for football and our vibrant sporting culture which, together, have brought so much joy to our people ”

The Wray & Nephew Football Programme aims to build on the success and passion for football in Jamaica, ensuring that both the Reggae Boyz and Reggae Girlz have the support and resources they need to excel on the global stage With this significant investment, the future looks bright for Jamaican football, both at the grassroots and professional levels

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Fraser-Pryce

(L-R) J. Wray & Nephew Ltd, Managing Director, Jean-Philippe Beyer; Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange; Jamaica Football Federaon President, Michael Rickes; and Jamaica Football