Caribbean National Weekly May 23, 2024

DUAL CITIZENSHIP

Should Jamaican-Americ be allowed to sit in Jamaican Parliament?

Dual citizenship proposal starks debate among gov't officials

As Jamaica's journey to remove King Charles as head of state become a republic by 2025 progresses, the island is currently in the process of reform its constitution

Last year, Prime Minister Andrew Holness appointed 14 members of a Constitutional Reform Committee to discuss the necessary steps in transforming Jamaica into a republic including who the president, replacing the British monarch, will be, among other matters

One issue that has sparked heated debate in

Parliament recently is wheth not dual citizens, specifically t who have pledged allegia countries not part of the c wealth, should be allowed Jamaican Parliament

Under the current c Commonwealth citizens (i with dual citizenship) must for at least one year to be elig But while Commonwealth p participate in general election Senators, non-Commonwea allegiance (such as U S citize Jamaica's opposition le advocated for allowing Commonwealth citizenship suggesting that diaspora me and contribute should not be “Jamaica has a large tremendous support for ou critical areas,” Golding argued

“ 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 . – Prime Minister Andrew Holness

“I believe that the Jamaican Diaspora is much bigger than our Commonwealth … that we should allow persons with Jamaican citizenship to be able to serve Jamaicans in our Parliament politically. –Leader of the Opposition, Mark Golding continues on A4 – Dual citizenship

Florida records highest unemployment rate in over two years

Florida’s unemployment rate in April reached its highest point in more than two years, marking the second consecutive month of an uptick

According to the state Department of Commerce, the jobless rate was estimated at 3 3 percent, with 361,000 Floridians classified as unemployed This represents an increase of 8,000 unemployed individuals from March, while the labor force saw a slight decline to 11 095 million

Despite the rise in unemployment, the state reported robust job growth The chief of workforce statistics and economic research at the Department of Commerce highlighted that

Home Depot VP makes $100K donation to Holy Childhood High

the unemployment rate remains low by historical standards The national unemployment rate stood at 3 9 percent in April, slightly higher than Florida’s rate

The state continues to be favorable for job seekers, with private-sector employment increasing by 42,600 jobs in April The number of job openings outpaced the number of unemployed individuals, indicating a healthy job market

The state’s jobless rate in March was 3 2 percent, following three months at 3 1 percent The lowest unemployment rate recorded was 2 4 per cent in the spring of 2006

Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized

Four renowned Jamaicans to be inducted in St George’s College Hall of Fame

Florida’s strong performance in education and the economy, as ranked by U S News & World Report

Despite the slight increase in unemployment, the state remains below the national average, which has stayed under 4 percent since January 2022

In April, only Florida and Maryland experienced increased unemployment rates, each rising by 0 1 percentage point Florida’s rate was 2 7 per cent in April 2023, with the labor force growing by 148,000 year over year

The number of unemployed individuals increased by 61,000 during the same period The report showed modest employment gains

Andros Island: Why this Bahamian OutIsland is perfect for solo travelers

across various sectors Construction added 400 jobs, manufacturing increased by 2,300 positions, education and health services grew by 6,300 jobs, and leisure and hospitality saw an increase of 9,200 jobs

The Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metropolitan area continued to have the lowest unemployment rates in the state at 2 7 percent, unchanged from March The highest unemployment rate was in the Homosassa Springs area at 4.9 percent, followed by The Villages at 4 7 percent and Sebring at 4 6 percent

Tenor Steve Higgins to bring the rhythm of Jamaica to Japan

COMMUNIT Y B

Dr. Michelle Richards and alumna Ann-

The works of seven arsts are on display at the Haian Heritage Art Exhibit “L'Union

Fait La Force” From far le: Helene Boisson, Edouard Duval Carrie, Annick Duvivier

Ligonde (center), Garry Laurent, Sophia LaCroix at the mic, Dominique Ambroise, and Neddji e Bien Aime plus Island SPACE's board president Calibe Thompson. Photo by David I Muir

(L-R) TLo France, Marc Occenad, Leslie Dalencour, Pat Bimane, Tlo's wife, and Viviana Augusn Moise aend the recent opening recepon for the Haian Heritage

Exhibit “L'Union Fait La Force”, now live at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. Photo by David I Muir

Jimmy Joseph Moise, Pat Bimane, and Leslie Dalencour aend the

Fait La Force”, now live at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. Photo by David I Muir

(L-R) Lauderhill HOA President Barion Harris; Deputy

Chief

Levy;

Chief Roberto Torres; and other members of the community were on hand to witness the unveiling of the new Lauderhill fire engine. Also pictured is Police Chief Constance Stanley (fourth from right) and Deputy Chief of Police Allen Siegel (third from right). Photo Credit: Luke Ballenne

The men, women and even their beloved four-legged partner of the City of Lauderhill Staon 30 proudly stand by their brand new fire truck. This was a much-needed replacement for the staon that serves the heart of Lauderhill. Photo credit: Luke Ballenne

Home Depot VP makes $100K donation to Holy Childhood High

Holy Childhood High School (HCHS) in Kingston, Jamaica, received a generous $100,000 USD donation from distinguished alumna Ann-Marie Campbell, Senior Executive Vice President at Home Depot

The announcement was made during the Holy Childhood High School International Alumni Gala held on Saturday, May 18th, 2024, at the Double Tree Hotel in Sunrise, Florida

Campbell, a 1981 graduate of HCHS, has remained committed to her alma mater Her donation will significantly impact the school's athletic facilities

According to the Alumni Association President, Evangelist Dr Michelle Richards, the funds will be used to renovate and upgrade the school's gymnasium This will provide students with a modern and safe space for physical activity and sports

Additionally, the donation will support the purchase of new equipment and technology, enhancing the overall athletic experience for students Financial aid for deserving students is also included in the initiative

Campbell expressed her enthusiasm about giving back “Sports are important, and I understand the value of a good education,” she remarked “I'm excited to see the positive impact this donation will have on current and future Holy Childhood students ”

Ann-Marie Campbell was appointed senior executive vice president of U S stores and operations, The Home Depot Canada, The Home Depot Mexico, and outside sales and service in 2016, leading more than 2,300 stores and more than 400,000 associates In this role, she is responsible for driving sales with the company's DIY and Pro customers, both in

stores and through outside Pro sales efforts and the Home Services business

Formerly, she served as executive vice president of U S stores and international operations, where she led the company's three U S operating divisions as well as supply chain, merchandising, sourcing and strategy for The Home Depot Canada and for The Home Depot

Mexico

Ann-Marie began her career with The Home Depot in 1985 as a cashier in South Florida She learned her first lessons in retail from her grandmother in Jamaica, who owned a small furniture store and had a reputation for friendly, top-notch customer service After more than 35 years with the company, AnnMarie brings a deep understanding of The Home Depot's operations, culture and customers

Over the years, she has served in a variety of positions, including store manager, district manager and regional vice president She has also served as vice president of operations, vice

I understand the value of a good education. I'm excited to see the positive impact this donation will have on current and future Holy Childhood students.” – Campbell

president of merchandising and special orders, vice president of retail marketing and sales for Home Depot Direct, vice president of vendor services and president of the Southern Division She is an active Team Depot volunteer, working side by side with other associates to give back to local communities She serves on the board of the Georgia Aquarium and Workday

Ann-Marie is a graduate of Georgia State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy and a master's degree in business administration She is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, an international business honor society and the National Scholars Honor Society In 2014, Campbell was ranked 38th on ortune's Most Powerful Women (MPW) in Business list

Campbell

Holy Childhood High School, Jamaica

Strengthening law enforcement: Guyana and the US forge new partnership

Beat the heat: Jamaica’s health ministry urges public to take precautions amid hot season

Senior cop issues call for parental involvement amid teen violence in the Bahamas

Four renowned Jamaicans to be inducted in St George’s College Hall of Fame

Four of Jamaica’s internationally recognized stand-outs in the areas of advocacy, law, finance, and diplomacy, are to be inducted into the 2024 St. George’s College Hall of Fame at a banquet set for Saturday, August 31, 2024, at the S-Hotel, New Kingston

They are Christopher Berry, chairman of Mayberry Investments Limited; Michael Hylton, former solicitor general; Professor Trevor Munroe, founding director of National Integrity Action, Jamaica’s chapter of Transparency International and Christopher Chaplin, Jamaica’s honorary consul in Philadelphia and co-chairman of the Philadelphia Organising Committee of Team

Venezuelans arrested in drug bust in Guyana

Authorities in the East Coast of Demerara have taken four individuals into custody following the discovery of significant quantities of cocaine

The operation involved the collaboration of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and local law enforcement, targeting drug trafficking activities in the region

During a strategic operation in the Cummings Lodge area, law enforcement officers intercepted three individuals two Venezuelans and one Guyanese carrying a backpack Upon inspection, officers found three large, brick-like parcels within the backpack

These parcels contained a total of 3 348 kilograms of cocaine, confirming the suspicions of drug trafficking activities

In a related follow-up operation in the Grant Woodland area of the Lower Pomeroon River, another Venezuelan national was arrested

This individual, identified as 35-yearold Ortiz Sergio Rafael, was found in possession of 5 6 kilograms of cocaine

The narcotics discovered were meticulously packaged, with some parcels notably marked with labels such as “St Patrick’s Day” and “Lamborghini”

The authorities have not disclosed the street value of the seized drugs

Jamaica Bickle They are all past students of St George’s College

In making the announcement on the weekend, Donovan Chen See, chairman of the St George’s Hall of Fame Selection Committee,

said the four outstanding leaders have done their alma mater proud, both locally and globally

He said the criteria for selection by the sixmember committee included: Community

Spirit; Excellence and Achievement in a Particular Field; Inspiring Leadership; National and/or International Recognition; Vision and Innovation and Service to the College

“We feel proud of those selected for this year’s induction as they have been outstanding examples of the foundation which St George’s College has been laying over the past 174 years for the development of young men,” said Chen

See The St George’s College Hall of Fame is the highest accolade by which Georgian Old Boys and Faculty may be recognized

Established in 2000, there are now 56 inductees, portraits of whom are prominently displayed at the St George’s College Hall of Fame Room, in the Archbishop Samuel E Carter, S.J. Library at the North Street institution

The Hall of Fame is hosted every two years

Jamaican minister stresses need for multisector approach to human trafficking

Jamaica’s Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, Hon Juliet CuthbertFlynn, emphasized the importance of a multisectoral approach to combat human trafficking effectively

According to the Minister, no single individual, agency, or organization can tackle this challenge alone

The crime’s complexity, whether within or across borders, necessitates cooperation among countries of origin, transit, and destination to efficiently address, assist, and prosecute involved parties

On May 20, at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, the 2024 Freedom from Slavery Caribbean Regional Forum was inaugurated

Under the theme ‘Demystifying Human Trafficking in the Caribbean Context: The Intersection of Culture and Human Trafficking’, the event was co-organized by Free the Slaves and Jamaica’s Office of the National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons

This three-day conference aims to provide a platform for informed and collaborative strategies to confront human trafficking directly

Mrs Cuthbert-Flynn outlined ongoing government initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking These include reviewing and updating the Trafficking in Persons Act to keep pace with the evolving tactics of

Dual Citizenship fromA1

“My view is that the better approach is for all Jamaican citizens to be eligible to sit in Parliament if they wish to serve, including Jamaicans who are dual citizens from nonCommonwealth countries This will benefit Jamaica by further expanding the available talent pool in Parliament to include all our citizens ”

Prime Minister Holness has shown support for allowing diaspora members to sit in Parliament but insists that the country's leader must not hold dual citizenship

“I believe that the Jamaican Diaspora is much bigger than our Commonwealth that we should allow persons with Jamaican

citizenship to be able to serve Jamaicans in our Parliament politically So for me, it doesn't matter what other citizenship you have once you swear allegiance being a Jamaican citizen to Jamaica That would be my stated position

“The other thing I would say is that 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 on CVM at Sunrise earlier this week

His comments came after it was revealed that Mark Golding is both a Jamaican and a

traffickers

The Government has also shown commitment through the establishment of the National Taskforce Against Trafficking in Persons and the appointment of a National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons

This role involves conducting independent investigations into alleged instances of trafficking

The Minister highlighted the importance

British citizen

Under Holness' proposal, a JamaicanAmerican or any other diaspora member can sit in Jamaican Parliament, but they would have to renounce their second citizenship if they have aspirations of being the head of government

Jamaican-American David Mullings, CEO of Blue Mahoe Holdings and a former member of Jamaica's Diaspora Advisory Board, was among those living in the U S who gave his opinion on the matter He said that either all dual citizens should be allowed to represent in Parliament, or none at all

“The constitution should be changed so that ALL or NONE can sit for dual citizens

of education and awareness-raising to challenge and change cultural norms that may perpetuate trafficking

Government collaborations with civil society and international partners have led to the development of training programs for law enforcement, service providers, and the public to improve recognition and response to human trafficking

Furthermore, strategic collaborations with regional and international stakeholders aim to strengthen efforts against cross-border trafficking networks

Acknowledging the underlying causes of trafficking, such as poverty, gender inequality, and social marginalization, Mrs CuthbertFlynn reaffirmed Jamaica’s commitment to promoting socioeconomic empowerment

This commitment is part of a broader strategy to foster a cultural shift that rejects the commodification of human lives and supports the healing and empowerment of trafficking survivors

Bukeni Waruzi, Executive Director of Free the Slaves, advocated for an increased focus on community-level efforts, including in families and schools, to combat human trafficking and modern-day slavery

This grassroots approach is essential for the development of effective and lasting solutions to eradicate trafficking

regardless of Commonwealth status Archaic term and holdover from a collapsed empire that stole from many countries I am a dual citizen If I can’t sit then so be it No other dual citizen should be allowed either Their Commonwealth citizenship to a different independent country doesn’t make them better or worse than me Just be fair ALL or NONE,” he wrote on social media platform, X

Several JLP MPs, including Daryl Vaz and Everald Warmington, who previously held dual Jamaican and US citizenship, had to renounce their US citizenship and contest by-elections to remain in Parliament, doing so in 2009 and 2011 respectively

Berry

Hylton

Munroe Chaplin

Efforts to resolve Guyana teachers’ strike reach impasse

In a recent development in Guyana, negotiations between the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) and the Ministry of Education have reached a deadlock

The discussions, centered on a 20 per cent interim salary increase for teachers pending final negotiations, concluded without resolution on Monday evening

The Ministry emphasized the necessity for the GTU to comply with the procedures outlined in the 1990 agreement, specifically stating that the ongoing strike must end before any conciliation efforts can begin Government’s firm stance on procedure

The Ministry of Education remains steadfast in its requirement for the GTU to honor the existing agreements, asserting that conciliation processes cannot commence until the strike is concluded and normal operations are resumed

Additionally, the Ministry expressed its readiness to engage in discussions aimed at reaching a multi-year agreement starting from 2024

Despite the impasse, no further meetings have been scheduled with the Chief Labour Officer, Dhaneshwar Deonarine, to mediate between the two sides

The GTU, under the leadership of Dr Mark Lyte, persists in its demands for an interim payment Dr Lyte articulates this requirement as a necessary measure to protect teachers’ interests, especially given the government’s history of unfavorable negotiation practices

The industrial action, initiated by the GTU three months ago, was temporarily suspended to address legal challenges concerning the government’s plan to reduce the salaries of striking teachers and stop the deduction of union dues

However, following the court’s consideration of the case, teachers resumed work The government’s insistence on negotiating only for the current year led to the rekindling of the GTU’s strike

The situation is further complicated by

the government’s decision to appeal Justice Sandil Kissoon’s ruling to the Guyana Court of Appeal, with potential escalation to the Caribbean Court of Justice, the highest court in the region

Meanwhile, the GTU remains committed to advocating for a fair salary reflective of teachers’ qualifications and experience, emphasizing its readiness to continue the strike for improved compensation

The union has proposed salary increases of 25 per cent for 2019 and 20 per cent for the subsequent years through 2023, whereas the government holds firm on initiating a new agreement from 2024 onwards

This ongoing dispute highlights the significant challenges in reconciling the needs of the educators with the fiscal policies of the government

Hong Kong police thwart cocaine shipment from Suriname

Law enforcement authorities in Hong Kong have scheduled a court appearance for two men implicated in a significant narcotics operation, following the discovery of 225 kilograms of cocaine in a local warehouse

This incident marks the largest cocaine seizure in the city this year, with the narcotics estimated to have a street value of US$25 million

The operation unveiled a complex smuggling route where the cocaine was concealed within containers of scrap iron sourced from Suriname, a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

Authorities believe that the narcotics were intended for temporary storage in Ping Che before distribution to other international markets

This case highlights a recurring pattern of drug shipments from Suriname to Hong Kong, underscoring a sophisticated network that leverages commercial shipping channels to mask their activities

In a related incident last month, Surinamese police intercepted 50 kilograms of cocaine hidden within car parts destined for Hong Kong via Nigeria

Furthermore, in January 2022, Hong Kong police seized over 135 kilograms of cocaine stashed in a container filled with frozen meat

Hong Kong maintains stringent laws against drug trafficking, with penalties for major offenses including life imprisonment and substantial monetary fines

Industrial action by teachers in Guyana

Haitian News

Urgent call for protection amid Haiti’s escalating gang violence

The United Nations humanitarian coordinator, Ulrika Richardson on Friday called for increased protection for civilians grappling with severe gang violence in Haiti

The crisis has deeply affected the daily lives of residents, particularly impacting vulnerable groups such as children and women Violence has forced an alarming number of Haitians from their homes, with around 360,000 individuals displaced, a significant number of whom are women and children

The situation has worsened recently with coordinated attacks in Delmas and Gressier, which have displaced an additional 10,000 people In response to the growing humanitarian needs, the World Food Programme (WFP) is providing vital support in affected areas In Gressier alone, approximately 2,900 people are receiving daily hot meals for two weeks

Additionally, the WFP continues to distribute food in Cité Soleil, one of the most vulnerable areas of Port-au-Prince, reaching 80,000 people since the onset of the crisis

Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021, Haiti has been mired in political turmoil and gang conflicts The power vacuum has led to increased gang control, contributing to widespread fear and instability across the nation

Violence has forced an alarm ing number of Haitians from their homes, with around 360,000 individuals displaced

In a significant development, Kenya and Haiti have entered into an agreement to deploy a Multinational Security Mission (MSS), sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council, aimed at restoring peace in the beleaguered nation

This mission is bolstered by the arrival of 200 Kenyan police officers, skilled in rapid deployment and special operations, expected to significantly aid Haiti’s overwhelmed police forces

The UN Security Council has reaffirmed its commitment to Haiti by authorizing the deployment of the MSS and renewing sanctions targeting gang leaders and their financiers This international effort underscores the global concern for Haiti’s deteriorating security situation and the urgent need for effective interventions to restore order and provide relief to its people

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida (Board), intends to commission one firm or joint venture as a Construction Management at-Risk (CMR) firm for the following General Obligation Bond (GOB) funded projects:

PARTIAL REPLACEMENT AND RENOVATIONS AT MADISON MIDDLE SCHOOL

3400 NW 87 Street Miami, FL 33147

Project No. 01617300

Construction Budget: $22,219,750

MANDATORY PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE:

Date/Time: Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 9:30 pm local time

Sign-in Period: Until 9:50 pm local time

PARTIAL REPLACEMENT AND RENOVATIONS AT BROADMOOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

3401 NW 83 Street Miami, FL 33147

Project No. 01528000

Construction Budget: $15,140,533

Location: Educational Federal (EdFed) Credit Union, 1498 NE 2 Avenue, Miami, FL 33132

QUESTIONS: Written questions regarding this solicitation will be accepted via e-mail as noted below under the Cone of Silence until 4:00 pm local time, Wednesday, June 5, 2024 Questions must be submitted to German Gonzalez at with a copy filed with Celia Rubio, Clerk german gonzalez@dadeschools net of the School Board, at Questions and Answers (Q&As) will be posted under legal ad 200 in the “INFO” icon at celiarubio@dadeschools net https://capitalapps dadeschools net/solicitations/default

RESPONSES DUE: Firms or companies desiring to participate in this selection process shall respond with one (1) original RFQ response in a 3-ring binder; one (1) copy in a 3-ring binder; and three (3) flash drives (each containing the entire response as a single PDF document) from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm local time, Tuesday, June 18, 2024, to the attention of:

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Department of A/E Selection & Negotiations

German Gonzalez, Professional Selection Analyst School Board Administration Building - Room 305 1450 NE 2 Avenue Miami, FL 33132

REQUIREMENTS: This is an abbreviated ad; the complete legal ad with requisite proposal information, Contractor Pre-qualification requirements, Mandatory Sub-consultant and Sub-contracting Utilization Goals, project details and instructions for this solicitation, including selection procedures, are available at the above address, or at under legal ad 200 https://capitalapps dadeschools net/solicitations/default

Protest - Purchase Approval and Competitive Bidding Process Requirements, Board Policy 6320

Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed and in the manner specified in Board policy or in accordance with FS. Section shall constitute a 120 57(3) waiver of proceedings under FS. Chapter 120

In accordance with Board policies, a Cone of Silence, lobbyist requirements and protest procedures are hereby activated. Failure to comply with requirements of this legal ad and Board policies shall be grounds for disqualification These, and all related Board policies, can be accessed and downloaded at https://go boarddocs com/fl/sbmd/Board nsf/Public?open&id=welcome

NOTE: A/E SELECTION SOLICITATIONS ARE POSTED UNDER MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS WEBSITE AT https://capitalapps dadeschools net/solicitations/default

Haitians detained after illegal landing in Portland, Jamaica

Eight Haitians, believed to be part of a group that landed illegally in Jamaica at a beach in Hector’s River, Portland, late Sunday night, are in police custody

The details surrounding their apprehension are scarce, but it is understood that they were picked up at various locations in Hector’s River during a pre-dawn police operation

A police pick-up truck was observed transporting the detained Haitians to the Port Antonio Hospital, approximately 26 miles away, for medical treatment and check-ups shortly after 9 a m on Monday

Authorities are still uncertain about the total number of Haitians who landed and whether any remain at large

This incident mirrors a similar occurrence in January when 10 Haitians, found along a roadway in Hector’s River, Portland, were sent home less than eight hours after receiving medical treatment

Flights resume at Haiti's main airport after prolonged shutdown

Haiti's primary international gateway, the Toussaint-Louverture airport in Port-au-Prince, resumed operations on Monday, May 20, after a prolonged closure of nearly three months

The shutdown, a result of relentless gang violence, had severely disrupted connectivity since early March

The reopening is seen as a crucial step towards alleviating the acute shortage of medical supplies and other essentials, particularly as the nation's main seaport continues to be inoperative

Currently, only Sunrise Airways, a domestic airline, has resumed flights to and from the capital Major U S -based airlines are expected to resume their services by late May or early June

Previously, the only other operational airport in Haiti had been in the northern city of Cap-Haitien, which remained largely inaccessible due to gang-controlled territories on the routes from Port-au-Prince

As gang violence escalated, seizing police stations and targeting transport hubs in February, the U S government and various nonprofit organizations conducted emergency evacuations by helicopter from affected neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince

The violence has since spread to previously peaceful areas, displacing thousands and significantly increasing the death toll

The United Nations reported a more than 50 per cent rise in casualties in the first quarter of the year compared to the same period in 2022

The crisis also led to political turmoil, with former Prime Minister Ariel Henry unable to return from a trip abroad during the airport attacks, subsequently leading to his resignation

A transitional presidential council is now tasked with stabilizing the country, including appointing a new prime minister and organizing general elections

Internationally, countries like Kenya are finalizing plans to deploy police officers to assist Haiti, with support expected from multiple nations

This initiative is part of broader efforts to manage the violence that has overwhelmed the Haitian capital

Editorial

Hypocrisy prevails?

In a nation fraught with political controversies, a new controversy has grasped Jamaicans. This latest controversy relates to Jamaica's initiative to reform its Constitution leading to the nation becoming a Republic.

Over the past year, the governmentappointed Constitutional Reform Committee (CRC), which inexplicably doesn't include representatives from the diaspora, has been making recommendations to reform the Jamaican Constitution to make it more pertinent to the planned republic

Recently Jamaica's Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs sought signatures of CRC members on the CRC report prior to submitting it to the Cabinet However, Opposition Leader Mark Golding instructed representatives of the Opposition on the CRC not to sign the report until concerns he has about the constitutional reform process are addressed

Golding expressed his concerns in a letter to Prime Minister Andrew Holness on May 7 Among Golding's concerns is the matter of Jamaica's ultimate court He believes in breaking from the British monarchy Jamaica should also break from having the UK Privy Council as its ultimate Court, with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as the new republic's ultimate court Holness, on the other hand, firmly supports the retention of the UK Privy Council Golding wants the CCJ/Privy Council matter dealt with immediately, and not later

While the question of Jamaica's highest court is pivotal to a reformed Jamaican constitution, the current controversy isn't really over the court issue, but regarding dual citizenship for Jamaicans seeking to serve in Jamaica's parliament

Last week at a news conference, Golding expressed his opinion that the reformed Jamaican Constitution should allow Jamaicans who hold citizenship from non-Commonwealth

countries, like the USA, to serve in parliament He believes dual citizenship shouldn't be a “bar to service ”

Under the current Jamaican Constitution, individuals holding citizenship in nonCommonwealth countries who have pledged alliance to those countries, are barred from sitting in the House of Representatives But Jamaican citizens who are also citizens of other Commonwealth countries, like the UK and Canada, who have resided in Jamaica for at least one year are eligible to serve in parliament

Some Jamaicans, including members of the Jamaican diaspora, support changes in the reform Constitution making it possible for Jamaicans living in countries like the US being able to serve in Jamaica's parliament, once they swear allegiance to Jamaica and reside there for at least one year before being elected to parliament

Interestingly, the CRC report, supports Jamaicans who are also non-commonwealth citizens serving in parliament Section 6 1 9 of the report reads: “Therefore, in our view as long as a Jamaican citizen meets the residency requirement and swears an oath of allegiance to Jamaica and to uphold and defend the Constitution of Jamaica, his/her dual citizenship should not preclude him/her from eligibility to sit in our Parliament ”

Astonishingly, Goldings's opinion on Jamaicans holding dual citizenship be included in the reformed constitution so they can serve in parliament, prompted an acidic response from some leading members of the ruling government party Since Golding, who was born in Jamaica to an English father, became the leader of the PNP and Opposition Leader, there have been racist inferences about his color, being a white Jamaican, and his place of birth Last week some JLP members demanded Golding disclose if he's also a British citizen

Golding responded that he's both a Jamaican and British citizen, as his British father got him a British passport when he was a child, but his service in parliament is according to the Jamaican Constitution He viewed the JLP's

criticism as politically motivated as “the local government elections and recent polls seem to have some grasping for straws ”

Compounding the controversy, in a TV interview last Monday, asked his opinion on dual citizenship, Holness said he is okay with Jamaicans with dual citizenship serving in parliament, except for the prime minister, who, according to him, should definitely not hold dual citizenship Some Jamaicans, responding on social media saw Holness' opinion as targeted directly at Golding, and very hypocritical After all, some claim, Holness's mentor and the man behind his ascension as JLP's leader was Edward Seaga, the late, former Jamaican prime minister, who held dual citizenship being born in the US, to Jamaican parents

Golding is also being criticized for being hypocritical, wanting a new Jamaican Republic to make a clean break from the UK Privy Council while he himself retains British citizenship

Appearing on another TV morning show on Tuesday, Golding reiterated he's a British citizen with a British passport but is willing to give the matter of relinquishing his British citizenship some thought, more so if singular Jamaican citizenship is a requirement of the new Jamaican Constitutions

Many people, including PNP supporters, believe it would be politically astute for Golding to surrender his British citizenship in his quest to be Jamaica's next prime minister “Golding is definitely serving in parliament according to the constitution, but his and the PNP's political goals could be derailed if he persists in keeping his British passport. He cannot risk seeming hypocritical,” said a veteran PNP member

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L E E P I N G G I A N T

ANDROS ISLAND

Why

this Bahamian Out-Island is perfect for solo travelers

Dubbed “The Sleeping Giant,” South Andros Island stands as one of The Bahamas’ largest landmasses, yet boasts the smallest population, with just over 2,000 residents

A n d r o s c o m p r i s e s t h r e e m a i n islands North Andros, Mangrove Cay, and South Andros Characterized by minimal development, South Andros beckons solo travelers seeking a tranquil, sun-drenched retreat, perfect for unwinding, communing with nature, and embarking on off-the-beatenpath adventures

This unspoiled eco-paradise boasts the world’s third-largest fringing barrier reef and over 90 miles of pristine beaches Renowned as the world’s bonefishing capital, the island is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Moreover, South Andros is home to over 200 oceanic blue hole caves the highest concentration globally making it a must-visit for thrill-seeking solo travelers

Distinguished by their staggering depths and captivating cave formations like stalagmites and stalactites, these underwater cave systems allure divers from around the globe, offering an unparalleled exploration experience

For those eager to explore, Western Air provides daily 20-minute flights from Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) to South Andros Congo Town Airport (COX), while Makers Air offers 60-minute direct flights from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE)

The Caerula Mar Club is a boutique resort on South Andros (the island’s first – and only –luxury property), and is packed with one-of-akind adventure!

The area ’ s first new hotel in nearly two

decades and only five-star resort, Caerula Mar is owned and designed by Brian and Sarah Baeumler, an HGTV Canada reality power couple famous for their hit fixer-upper shows, including Island of Bryan, which chronicles how the couple transformed an abandoned Bahamian resort from the 1960’s into a hidden gem decked out with private villas, swaying hammocks, and some of the most luxe amenities in the region

Destination Caerula Mar sits on 10 secluded beachfront acres in South Andros, dotted with palm trees and spread across powder-white sands edged with crystalline turquoise waters

Resting beneath the shade of lush palm trees, just steps away from the beach, Caerula Mar’s six private villas and 18 Clubhouse Suites are designed to evoke a sense of barefoot luxury Guest rooms and villas are made with sustainable, natural materials and feature breeze outdoor living spaces, encouraging guests to immerse themselves in nature and

feel at one with their surroundings

Visitors can dine at three on-property restaurants that range from the whimsical café and smoothie bar, Switcha, to the oceanfront Driffs Bar & Lounge — an idyllic spot to mingle with cocktails and shareable plates, to Lusca — a fine dining restaurant that features dishes inspired by international flavors

Whether they’re seeking R&R or looking to get a taste of island life, guests have access to a resort-style oceanfront swimming pool, hammocks, a spa, fitness center, complimentary use of non-motorized water sports, bicycles available for daytime exploration, and excursions that include diving, snorkeling, boating, fishing and more With the combo of secluded relaxation and one-of-a-kind adventure, those traveling solo couldn’t ask for a better destination

Travel trends 2024: Caribbean destinations shine amid global tourism boom

The travel industry in 2024 is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by robust consumer spending and a significant increase in passenger traffic

According to the latest global report from the Mastercard Economics Institute titled “Travel Trends 2024,” the sector is flourishing with noteworthy implications for various economies, particularly in the Caribbean

The report highlights that four Caribbean destinations have become top choices for American travelers from June to August 2024

These include Oranjestad, Aruba (2nd), Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (5th), San Juan, Puerto Rico (6th), and Santiago,

Dominican Republic (10th) Oranjestad also ranks tenth globally as a top trending destination for the same period, while Punta Cana stands out as the eighth top

trending destination for Latin Americans Countries in the Caribbean offering relatively more affordable hotel options are experiencing exceptional growth This

affordability is contributing positively to their economies, with tourists extending their stays and increasing overall spending

For instance, the average duration of stays in Barbados has risen from 7 8 days in 2020 to 8 5 days in 2024, attributed to factors such as cost-effectiveness and favorable climate

On a global scale, the duration of vacations has increased from 4 5 days in 2020 to 5 5 days in 2024

The first half of the year has seen recordbreaking international travel, with 15 9 million Americans traveling internationally between January and March 2024

This surge underscores the sector’s continues on B1 – Travel Trends 2024

Oceanfront Signature Villa, Emerald Palms, Caerula Mar Club, Bahamas

Oranjestad. Aruba Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Buccaneer Wins Tripadvisor

Travelers’ Choice Award 2024

The Buccaneer in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands has been honored with a prestigious Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2024, placing it among the top 10% of listings worldwide

This award celebrates businesses that consistently receive outstanding traveler reviews, reflecting excellence in hospitality

Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, bases this accolade on genuine feedback from community members who have visited and shared first-hand reviews over a 12-month period This process ensures the Travelers’ Choice Award is a reliable indicator of quality

“We are deeply honored and grateful to be recognized among Tripadvisor’s Travelers Choice favorites this year This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our incredible staff and the support of our loyal visitors and reviewers,” said Elizabeth Armstrong, Owner of The Buccaneer “We extend our heartfel thanks to everyone who has contributed to our success ”

The Buccaneer combines charm and luxury

Located on St Croix in the U S Virgin Islands, The Buccaneer combines timeless charm with modern luxury Owned and operated by the Armstrong family for three generations, the resort has earned high honors and numerous “World’s Best” accolades from the travel industry The Buccaneer is committed to meeting and exceeding the highest standards of taste, elegance, and discerning preferences, with the goal of ensuring every guest becomes part of The Buccaneer family

“We are deeply honored and grateful to be recognized among Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice favorites this year. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our incredible staff and the support of our loyal visitors and reviewers.” –

Elizabeth Armstrong, Owner

y front beauty of St Croix, each featuring a patio or balcony for guests to enjoy spectacular views and cooling breezes The Buccaneer’s mission is to provide world-class service, ensuring every visitor leaves as an ambassador for St Croix

“Congratulations to The Buccaneer on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2024,” said John Boris, Chief

wth Officer at Tripadvisor “Travelers’ oice honors businesses that consistently monstrate a commitment to hospitality ellence This means you have made such a morable impact on your visitors that many hem took the time to go online and leave a at review about their experience People y on Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice seal to p them navigate the myriad of things to see, , and do across the globe We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2024 and beyond ”

The Buccaneer’s inclusion in the Travelers’ Choice Awards underscores its commitment to providing exceptional experiences, ensuring that every guest enjoys a stay marked by luxury, comfort, and a deep connection to the beautiful surroundings of St Croix

Trends

resilience and adaptability in the face of changing travel patterns and consumer preferences

Travelers are increasingly prioritizing experiences over material possessions, which now represent 12 per cent of tourism sales, the highest in at least five years

This shift in consumer behavior is driving demand for authentic and valuerich travel experiences, pushing destinations to enhance their offerings

Cruise travel surpasses pre-pandemic levels

Cruise travel is experiencing a resurgence, surpassing pre-pandemic demand levels

The Bahamas, for example, has seen an influx of 2 9 million additional passengers arriving by sea compared to 2019, highlighting the affordability and appeal of cruise vacations

Japan leads in tourist activity, while Munich tops the list for summer tourism In Europe, Albania ranks third among costeffective travel destinations

These trends indicate a broadening of popular travel spots as travelers seek diverse and budget-friendly options

Mastercard’s role in supporting global tourism

Mastercard continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the global tourism sector through market analysis, high-frequency data insights, and customer engagement strategies

These efforts aim to personalize the travel experience and foster brand loyalty, ensuring that the travel industry remains vibrant and responsive to consumer needs in 2024

The Buccaneer in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Community & the Diaspora

No Jamaican involved in farmworkers bus crash in Florida

Florida man recovering following shark attack in the Bahamas

Resident outcry in North Miami after City Council fires City Manager Rasha Cameau

AFJ presents over J$102 million in grant awards to Jamaican organizations

The American Friends of Jamaica, Inc. (AFJ) presented some $102 million JMD to reputable charities in Jamaica, with the support of donors in the United States.

In February this year, the annual AFJ grant cycle closed with 81 discretionary grant application submissions

Subsequently, following a rigorous evaluation process by the AFJ Grants Committee, 47 grant applications were approved to be awarded during the Grant Ceremony on May 7, 2024 Grant awards were presented at this official ceremony hosted by The Honorable N Nick Perry, U S

Ambassador to Jamaica at the United States Embassy in Kingston, Jamaica

Combined with Donor Advised Grants, a total of 47 grants were presented

The full list of grants to be presented during the ceremony are: A New Jamaica of Peace, Alpha School of Music, Bethel Baptist Church, BREDS – Treasure Beach Foundation, Busy Bee Educational Enrichment, Inc , Child Resiliency Program, VPA, Christel House Jamaica, Church Teachers College, Cornwall Regional Hospital/WRHA, Creative LanguageBased Learning (CLBL), Fight for Peace International, Friends of Hopewell, Half Way Tree Primary School, Institute of Jamaica, Jamaica Conservation & Development Trust, Jamaica Musical Theatre Company, Journey 2 Free, Lara Otunla Counseling Center, Lupus Foundation of Jamaica, Mission of Sight, Musson Foundation, National Education Trust- Level Up, National STEM Centre, Project STAR, Rose Town Foundation, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sagicor Foundation, Seprod Foundation, Southern Basketball Conference, St Mary’s Preparatory School, St Patrick’s Foundation/Riverton Meadows, Stand Up for Jamaica, STEM Boost Program, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Trench Town Primary, UWI – Amb Sue M Cobb Scholarship, UWI – Amb J Gary Cooper Scholarship, UWI – Amb. Glen Holden Scholarship, UWI Kathleen Newman Scholarship, UWI – Kevin Akindele Wright Scholarship, UWI – Klotz Family Scholarship, UWI – Margaret “Peggy” Steuart Scholarship, UWI – Ralph & Ricky Lauren Scholarship, UWI – Sydney A Phillips Scholarship, Violence Prevention Alliance, VM Foundation Limited, Youth Nutrition Program

“The AFJ believes in reducing education inequity, investing in skills-building opportunities, and improving patient care This year ’ s grants are an inclusive representation of our mission to impact Education, Healthcare, and Economic Development in Jamaica,” stated Caron Chung, Executive Director Reverend Canon Sirrano Kitson offered solemn commemorative tributes to recently deceased AFJ President Emeritus Ambassador Glen Holden and AFJ Director Emeritus Ambassador Gary Cooper Jamaica’s Minister of Education, Fayval Williams delivered remarks following an inspiring introduction by Permanent Secretary, Dr Kasan Troupe

The AFJ’s grantmaking cycle begins in November, grantees are selected once per year

The AFJ is able to award grants from proceeds raised from annual fundraisers in New York and Miami, private foundations, corporate partnerships, donor-direct contributions, and the AFJ online giving platform

Community

Tenor Steve Higgins to bring the rhythm of Jamaica to Japan

Fresh from his stellar performance at the Davie Jazz Festival in Florida, Jamaican tenor and cultural ambassador Steve Higgins is set to embark on a new adventure, this time in Asia. In May 2024, Higgins will land in Tokyo, Japan, ready to share the vibrant sounds of Jamaican Folk Songs

While in Japan, Higgins will perform in concert halls in Tokyo and Tottori, among other selected venues, offering a full 75-minute concert of Jamaica's rhythmic and pulsating folk music Japanese audiences, known for their deep appreciation of Jamaica's culture, are eagerly anticipating his arrival

This music tour is a collaborative effort involving the Embassy of Jamaica in Tokyo and Japan's Min-On Concert Association, with support from the Japan Agency for Cultural Affairs and the Tottori Prefectural Government The concerts in Tokyo and Tottori Prefecture commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Jamaica

Celebrated Japanese operatic soprano Ms Yukari Kiyono and distinguished pianist Mr Mitsuru Hirose will join Higgins for these highly anticipated commemorative events The Japanese community's response to this series has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic

In addition to his concerts, Higgins will visit Iwami High School in Tottori, engaging with students and enjoying performances of Jamaican music by the school's Blue Martin Jazz Orchestra This cultural exchange will culminate in a joint performance, including Bob Marley's iconic song “One Love ” Higgins' visit complements his annual workshops on Jamaican Folk music, which he conducts at universities, museums, and schools across the Jamaican Diaspora

“We are excited to welcome Mr Higgins to Japan for this Jamaican cultural showcase,” said H E Shorna-Kay Richards, Jamaican Ambassador

to Japan “I look forward to the nostalgia he will bring through hi Jamaica's folk musi On's Director of In “We all love Jamai culture! We've had Jamaican musicians be no different ” Higgins himself honoured to have re Japan and look for exhilarating perform a tribute to the Harry Belafonte!” h year, we bring love Land of Wood and W the Land of the R Sun during this spec anniversary year fo

Japan ” Steve Higgins Productions has s

Jamaican Folk music across Euro North America, the the United Kingdom songs, Higgins p Ballads, Standards, Sacred music, Italian popular Jamaican g attract diverse audie continues to prom cultural heritage He was recentl Proclamation from Davie, Florida as Musician He also Congressional Recog States Congress fo invaluable service to

Steve Higgins

Florida to introduce pregnancy and parenting resource website

In an effort to enhance support for expectant and parenting families, Florida is set to launch a new website by 2025

This initiative, driven by the passage of HB-415, which will take effect on July 1, 2024, aims to centralize and improve access to a wide range of resources

The development of the new website is a collaborative endeavor involving the Florida Department of Health, the Department of Children and Families, and t h e A g e n c y f o r H e a l t h C a r e Administration

The website will serve as a hub for an array of services, including educational materials on pregnancy and parenting, programs tailored for fathers, financial assistance, and adoption services

Legislative backdrop and funding

The initiative was spearheaded by State Representative Berny Jacques and has been met with mixed reactions from other lawmakers

Concerns were raised about the inclusivity of the resources, particularly regarding the full spectrum of family planning options

Despite debates over content, particularly the exclusion of abortion information due to state funding policies, the website will also offer details on crisis pregnancy centers among other statesupported services

The push for a new, more userfriendly platform stems from criticisms of the current Florida Department of Health’s website, which has been described as challenging to navigate and outdated

To address these issues, the legislation has allocated over $466,000 to a thirdparty developer tasked with creating the new website

‘Bob Marley: One Love’ nominated for ‘Best Movie’ At 2024 BET Awards

Paramount Pictures and Tuff Gong’s musical biopic Bob Marley: One Love has been nominated for “Best Movie” at the 2024 BET Awards

Other nominees in the category include 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 On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 44% of 185 critics’ reviews are positive, with an average rating of 5 4/10 The website’s consensus reads: “Kingsley Ben-Adir does an admirable job in the central role, but Bob Marley: One Love is ultimately a standard biopic that doesn’t do justice to its brilliant subject ”

Metacritic, which uses a weighted average, assigned the film a score of 43 out of 100, based on 36 critics, indicating “mixed or average” reviews Audiences surveyed by CinemaScore gave the film an average grade of “A” on an A+ to F scale, while those polled at PostTrak gave it a 91% positive score, with 80% saying they would definitely recommend the film

Jamaican entertainer Jimmy ‘Vagabond’ James dies at 84

Jimmy James, the cherished frontman of The Vagabonds and the iconic voice behind the timeless ballad “Come to Me Softly,” passed away on Wednesday, May 15, at the age of 84

James died in London at Northwick Park Hospital, as confirmed by his family to the Jamaica Observer He had been battling Parkinson’s disease and a heart condition, which ultimately led to his retirement from performing

Born in Brown’s Town, Jamaica, James moved to Kingston in the 1950s to pursue his musical ambitions He recorded with notable producers like Clement Dodd and Lindon

James

Pottinger, the latter producing the original version of “Come to Me Softly ”

The Vagabonds, a Jamaican dance band, formed in 1960 and relocated to the United Kingdom in 1964 during the British Invasion

Throughout their illustrious career, they shared stages with legends such as The Who, Rod Stewart, and Jimi Hendrix, releasing six studio albums including The New Religion (1966), This Is Jimmy James and the Vagabonds (1968), Open Up Your Soul (1968), You Don’t Stand a Chance If You Can’t Dance (1975), Now (1976), and Life (1977) Spanning over five decades, James’ career with The Vagabonds saw them extensively touring the UK and breaking new ground as the first musical group from the Western Hemisphere to perform behind the Iron Curtain in Hungary Their tours also took them

to Tunisia, Germany, Greece, France, Belgium, Holland, and other countries

Jimmy James & the Vagabonds achieved two Billboard Hot 100 hits: “Come to Me Softly,” which James wrote and which peaked at No 76 in 1968, and “I Am Somebody,” which reached No 94 in 1976 They also had a nearhit with a cover of Neil Diamond’s “Red Red Wine ” James continued recording throughout the 1970s, producing hits like “I’ll Go Where Your Music Takes Me” and “Now Is The Time ” He is survived by his wife Paula, five sons, two daughters, and his grandchildren

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Chris Dehring’s optimism for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA

By Patrick Green

Chris Dehring, the mastermind behind the iconic 2007 Cricket World Cup, is brimming with excitement for the upcoming T20 spectacle set to rock the West Indies and the USA next month With his keen eye for the game’s pulse, Dehring confidently predicts a whirlwind of success, fueled by the staggering broadcast rights awaiting the tournament’s organizers

The former organizing committee head spoke exclusively to CNW at the World Cup trophy tour event at the Central Broward Regional Park, the largest ICC-approved cricket facility in the USA

Dehring who is also a marketing executive, said the tournament “will be financially successful just by virtue of the sheer quantum of broadcast rights I mean, where that has gone to is just mind-boggling ” Dehring waxes lyrically about the technological marvels at play, promising fans an immersive experience like never before This he said will increase the engagement of fans and spectators globally

“Technological developments and audio-visual distribution around the world have dramatically changed,” he said, underscoring the access to the matches on a wide variety of mobile devices Now you have the matches in your hand anywhere you are, so the world is your addressable market, which is just phenomenal,” he stated

Tournament not without challenges

But amidst the buzz, Dehring injects a note of caution “Venturing into the US brings unique challenges,” he acknowledges He said there are reasons to be cautious “it’s the first time that the event is being staged in the United States So the US brings with it certain, extra challenges It’s one of the world’s biggest targets, for instance, for international terrorism ”

He also pointed to the challenge of hosting the tournament in multiple countries “It must be a special challenge because when we did it, we held it across 9 different

Caribbean Islands Now we ’ re holding it across 7 Caribbean Islands and another massive country And you could literally call it 3 more countries,” referring to the states of New York, Florida, and Texas

“Texas and New York are virtually countries Broward County is bigger as an economy and geographically than many of the Caribbean islands So you ’ re talking about 10, destinations with different legal regulatory environments And so it’s a big challenge,” he indicated

Commercial stakes

In pointing out the success factors for the host, Dehring said that “commercially, you want to try and put your best foot forward because it’s a sport you ’ re trying to grow in the United States ”

Highlighting the commercial stakes, Dehring stresses the importance of showcasing cricket’s charm to American audiences “It’s not just about the game; it’s about fostering a cricketing culture in the States,” he asserts “But with great opportunity comes great risk One misstep and the liabilities could overshadow the rewards ”

“You have to be able to host the games to generate massive revenues

So that’s where the liabilities of hosting these events are Everybody talks about the wonderful benefits of

hosting major events, but what I always tend to focus on is the size of your liability if you mess up And, so that’s the most important part ”

He cautioned the organizers to make sure they execute the matches as they are supposed to, which according to him will “generate the

television returns that you would have contracted ”

The former banker said that if the above are done well the tournament will “be a phenomenally, financial windfall for both the Caribbean and the international cricket ”

Can West Indies win the T20 World Cup?

Looking at West Indies’ chances of winning the tournament, Dehring was cautiously optimistic “It’s T20, so anything can happen In fact, that is one of the challenges that West Indies as a unit faces T20 has all of a sudden leveled the playing field amongst so many countries There are now 84 ranked T20 teams Nepal beat our West team the other day, and people were surprised ”

“The world of cricket has dramatically changed Nepal is ranked number 16, West Indies is number 7, any number can play Just like if Australia is ranked number one or India is ranked number one and West Indies is ranked number seven, any number can play

Looking back at the 2007 tournament when he led the organizing team, Dehring admitted that even with the success of the tournament from a financial position, he has one lingering disappointment

“We run a perfect World Cup in 2007 But at the end, you couldn’t help but just be so disappointed because our team didn’t do well ”

“At a final that West Indies was not at And you had to be handing this trophy over to some other country in the Caribbean There’s something about that I’ve been living with forever Being on that podium, seeing that trophy being given to Australia in the Caribbean Oh, it’s something that will devastate you ” As the countdown to the T20 World Cup begins, set to commence on June 1st at the Central Broward Regional Park in South Florida, Dehring’s insights offer a glimpse into the excitement and challenges awaiting cricket enthusiasts and organizers alike With twenty teams competing for glory, the stage is set for a captivating cricketing spectacle that promises to enthrall audiences until the final showdown on June 29th

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Supreme Ventures’ JustBet signs trio of Jamaican sports stars

As the Olympic Games draw near, local athletes are intensifying their preparations, and JustBet has timed its latest partnership perfectly to include three of Jamaica’s top sports representatives

Supreme Ventures’ JustBet recently unveiled its new campaign featuring Reggae Boyz captain and goalkeeper Andre Blake, Olympian Stacy Ann Williams, and motorsports sensation Fraser McConnell

The Olympic Games are set to be held in Paris, France, from July 26 through August 11

“We recently refreshed the JustBet brand and have just launched our new advertising campaign to reflect the energy of the brand It was important to us to align with a diverse group of athletes who all represent excellence in sports to be part of the JustBet story,” remarked

Kamal Powell, head of marketing for Supreme Ventures Limited

“The inclusion of accomplished athletes like Andre, Stacy Ann, and Fraser in our new television commercials underscores our commitment to showcasing the multifaceted nature of athleticism and entertainment while celebrating Jamaican sporting excellence We are proud to partner with these amazing Jamaican athletes as we continue to elevate the JustBet brand,” he added

Powell highlighted the strategic alignment with the brand ambassadors, emphasizing their significance to JustBet’s mission “Andre Blake, revered as the backbone of Jamaica’s football team, joins as a symbol of leadership and resilience Stacy Ann Williams, a formidable presence on the track, epitomizes the physical and mental fortitude it takes to be among the best in sports Fraser McConnell, known for his fearless approach to motorsports, perfectly

embodies the thrill and excitement that define JustBet’s ethos. We are truly thrilled to welcome them aboard,” Powell said Blake expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership “Supreme Ventures has supported sports in Jamaica, including football, for many years, and so I’m excited to work with their team not just in this new ad campaign but also by supporting the Andre Blake Foundation,” Blake said Through their partnership with JustBet, these athletes will inspire fans to embrace the excitement of sports and entertainment, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among enthusiasts nationwide, the company stated in a release Blake had also recently secured an endorsement deal with Spectrum Systems Limited, Jamaica’s largest distributor of roofing and building products

Chris Dehring posing in front of the ICC World Cup trophy Blake

Former West Indies star Dwayne Bravo appointed Afghanistan bowling consultant

Former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has been appointed as a technical adviser to the Afghanistan team for the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup, which starts on June 1 in the Caribbean and the United States

The 40-year-old, who was part of the twotime men ’ s T20 World Cup-winning West Indies teams, will serve as the bowling consultant for Afghanistan

Bravo follows in the footsteps of his Trinidad and Tobago compatriots, Kieron Pollard and Phil Simmons, who have also secured coaching roles for the tournament Pollard will be working with defending

champions England, the only other nation that has won the T20I World Cup twice, while Simmons will be attached to the Papua New Guinea team, competing in Group C along with co-hosts West Indies

Bravo has already joined the Afghan team in Basseterre, St Kitts, for their 10-day training camp as they prepare for the global event Afghanistan is also in Group C, which includes New Zealand and Uganda Their opening match in the tournament is scheduled for June 3 at the Guyana National Cricket Stadium against Uganda

Starting his international career two

decades ago, Bravo represented the West Indies until his retirement three years ago. He played in 40 Tests, 164 One-Day Internationals, and 91 T20Is, amassing over 6,000 international runs and more than 360 wickets Bravo’s prolific career in T20 cricket includes taking 625 wickets, the most in official T20 matches, with 78 of those in international games Bravo was a key member of the West Indies squads that clinched the T20I World Cup in 2012 and 2016 Recently, he served as the bowling coach for the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League

Jaquez joins elite company as rst-team All-Rookie in Miami Heat history

From the moment the Miami Heat selected Jaime Jaquez Jr in the first round of last year ’ s NBA draft, there was a sense that the team had found the right player at the right time

This notion was confirmed shortly after the season ended when Jaquez reflected on his rookie year

After being picked No 18 overall out of UCLA in June, Jaquez highlighted his commitment to improvement and maintaining health as crucial for building on his rookie success during his exit interview His dedication was evident as he became the first Heat draft pick to be named to the firstteam All-Rookie since Michael Beasley in 2009

“I would just say the biggest thing I would take away from this season is learning the importance of just taking care of your body, and your health and your mind,” Jaquez said “I think that’s probably the biggest thing to learn, that it’s a long season Your health is very important, mental, physical, so always got to keep that in check ”

Jaquez, a 6-foot-6 wing, appeared in a teamhigh 75 games during the regular season, demon-

strating his resilience and availability He joined the ranks of lottery-selected All-Rookie leading candidates like Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren, and Brandon Miller with personal expectations closer to those of a top draft pick

“It’s been great just having such an experienced group of veterans around me that have so much experience To be able to learn under them and to take what they’re giving me has just been huge,” Jaquez said, crediting teammates Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo for his rookie success “And I think it’s given me an advantage being able to play in my rookie season and just learning from guys like that ”

The 2024 NBA first-team All-Rookie included Jaquez, 2024 Rookie of the Year Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs), Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder), Miller (Charlotte Hornets), and Brandin Podziemski (Golden State Warriors) In the media balloting conducted prior to the playoffs, Jaquez received 89 first-team votes and 10 second-team votes, earning votes from all 99 media members Named second-team All-Rookie were Dallas Mavericks big man Dereck Lively II, Houston

Rockets forward Amen Thompson, Keyonte George, Oklahoma Cit Wallace, and Memphis Grizzlie Jackson II Voting was not positionJaquez was also named N Conference Rookie of the Month October/November and Decemb becoming the fifth Heat rookie to win the award, joining Beasley, Caron Butler, Josh Richardson, and Kendrick Nunn

“Jaime exploded on the scene,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said “That was obvious for everybo to see Then he got on everyo scouting reports Then it changed little bit Then he was injured Th came back, I really felt like he w better player He was able to see deeper level ”

Bravo

Jaime Jaquez, Jr