Caribbean National Weekly November 7, 2024 by Creative Network Media

THE RETURN OF THE

DON

ELECTION SHAKE-UP: TRUMP RETURNS AS PRESIDENT; JAMAICAN-AMERICANS DOMINATE SEATS IN LAUDERHILL

Donald Trump secured a dramatic return to the White House on Wednesday, reclaiming the presidency as the 47th president of the United States. His decisive victory was sealed with 276 electoral votes, after a critical win in Wisconsin pushed him past the 270-vote threshold. Key battleground states, including North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, ultimately cleared his path back to power.

Keeva Ingram, the current principal of the St. Andrews High School for Girls in Kingston, speaks at the SAOGA Florida Chapter's 35th anniversary celebraon in Davie, on October 26, 2024

The ST. Andrews Old Girls

Associaon Florida Chapter celebrated its 35th anniversary in Davie, on October 26, 2024

Raymond

The legendary Marica Griﬃths and Jamaica's Minister of Culture Olivia Grange pose for a photo backstage at Griﬃths' concert held in Kingston on November 3

Patrons came out to the 6th Annual Treasure Coast Food & Music Fesval on Saturday, November 2, in Port St. Lucie, Florida, hosted by CACG

Reggae legend Luciano poses with Caribbean American Cultural Group President Dawn Bloomﬁeld & member Janice at the CARIFEST Meet & Greet in Port St. Lucie, Florida, over the weekend

Miramar Commissioner Maxwell Chambers, Senator DebbieWasserman Schultz and Commissioner Yvee Colbourne take a photo with middle-distance runner Tommy Cardenas who ﬁnished ﬁrst place at the Miramar Mile Run

Miramar Commissioner Yvee Colbourne (right) and Senator DebbieWasserman Schultz pose with Trenayi Howard, who placed third for the women at the 3rd Annual Miramar Mile Run held on November 2

Gregory Tony secures second full term as Broward County Sheriff

Broward County voters have opted to keep Gregory Tony as their sheriff for another four years, reaffirming his leadership in a tight race against challenger Charles Edward Whatley. Tony, who was first appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in 2019 and subsequently won election in 2020, campaigned on a platform of enhanced first responder training and public safety reform

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tony was the youngest of ﬁve children of Gloria Tony and William Scott He graduated from Olney High School in 1997 and later moved to Tallahassee, Florida, to attend Tallahassee Community College Tony continued his education at Florida State University, where he played football under legendary coach Bobby Bowden and earned a bachelor's degree in criminology in 2002 He later pursued further education, obtaining a master's degree in criminal justice from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale and, most recently, a Ph D. in criminal justice from the same institution in 2024

Tony began his law enforcement career with the Coral Springs Police Department in 2005 at the age of 26 and served until 2016, eventually rising to the rank of sergeant Alongside his police work, Tony has served as an adjunct professor for several years In 2015, he co-founded Blue Spear Solutions, an active shooter training company, with his wife He also held the position of Director of Community Development at North American Rescue, a South Carolina-based company specializing in bleedingcontrol kits, from 2016 to 2017

Tony's appointment to the sheriff's role came after DeSantis made a campaign promise to replace then-Sheriff Scott Israel, who faced criticism for his handling of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting and the 2017 Fort Lauderdale airport shooting Press reports indicated that DeSantis' vetting process for Tony was expedited, with a background check being conducted just one day before his appointment Tony's selection was notably influenced by a

recommendation from a parent of a Stoneman Douglas shooting victim, who had met Tony at a gym

Despite significant achievements during his tenure, including the establishment of the Broward Sheriff's Office's first-ever Research, Development, and Training Center, Tony's career has not been without controversy In 2022, a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) investigation found that Tony had failed to disclose a fatal shooting he was involved in at age 14, which was ruled self-defense The report highlighted discrepancies on his police applications, but criminal charges were not pursued due to the statute of limitations Additional scrutiny arose when it was discovered that Tony had provided false information on police and driver's license applications regarding past suspensions

The FDLE recommended a six-month suspension of Tony's law enforcement certiﬁcation in 2024 for these misrepresentations However, an administrative judge advised a less severe outcome, suggesting a written reprimand, ethics training, and an 18-month probation period

Despite these challenges, Tony has maintained the trust of Broward County voters His leadership has focused on improving response training for mass shootings, introducing racial equity and implicit bias programs, and enforcing a culture of accountability within the sheriff's office Voters' decision to grant him another term underscores their confidence in his ability to guide Florida's largest sheriff's office forward

Caribbean News

Guyana Chamber of Commerce raises alarm over counterfeit goods in market

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Guyana has issued a warning regarding the increasing presence of counterfeit, expired, and improperly labeled products in the market The Chamber expressed its alarm at the apparent disregard for laws and regulations by certain retailers and supermarket owners

In a recent statement, the GCCI urged the Bureau of Standards and the Food and Drug Analyst Department to conduct comprehensive investigations into these issues The organization called for the immediate removal of any products that violate legal standards from store shelves, ensuring they are no longer available for sale

Furthermore, the GCCI is appealing to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and its Customs Department to ensure that all imported goods comply with regulatory requirements during the clearance process

The Bureau of Standards and the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department have been known to conduct periodic raids on businesses to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations The GCCI noted the necessity for a closer examination of tax law adherence among businesses to promote equal enforcement of the law across the industry

In addition, the Chamber emphasized the importance of respecting labor laws, urging the Ministry of Labor to ensure businesses comply with the Labor Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and other relevant labor regulations

The GCCI has expressed its readiness to fully support the government of Guyana in investigating non-compliant businesses and penalizing violations to uphold the integrity of the market

GRENADA: Grenada

PM rejects allegations of excessive taxpayer-funded trips

HAITI: UN reports surge in violence as gangs tighten control in Haiti

DOMINICA: United Nations to examine Dominica’s human rights record

Belize condemns Israel’s move to ban UNRWA in Gaza

Belize has strongly condemned Israel’s decision to withdraw its request to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which dates back to 1967 This condemnation follows Israel’s recent passage of two bills that aim to sever all contact between the Israeli government and UNRWA, as well as bar the agency from operating within Israel

By issuing this ﬁrm and unequivocal stance, Belize is signaling its support for Palestinian refugees and the vital work of UNRWA, which has been providing humanitarian aid and services to Palestinian refugees since 1949 The move by Israel to restrict the agency ’ s activities is seen as part of its broader eﬀorts to limit international assistance to Palestinians and undermine the agency ’ s role in addressing the refugee crisis

“Belize ﬁrmly and unequivocally condemns this latest illegal action of the state of Israel and calls on the international community and all members of the United Nations to ensure that UNWRA is not dismantled and that international humanitarian law is adhered to

“There must at the very least be a total ban on the sale or transfer of arms to Israel, and means must be found to take life-saving aid to the Palestinian people Israel can no longer simply be allowed to exterminate a people,” the Ministry of Foreign Aﬀairs and Foreign Trade said in a statement

It noted that when Israel had announced plans to prohibit the country’s authorities from having any contact with UNRWA and bar the agency from operating within Israel, at the time, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed that the eﬀective ban would have “devastating consequences ”

Belmopan said that the heads of the UN agencies and organizations providing humanitarian support on the ground in Gaza have all spoken out against the Israeli ban on UNRWA

It quoted the acting head of the UN aid coordination oﬃce called the decision “dangerous and outrageous”, whilst UNRWA’s head said that the bills will “increase the suﬀering

of the Palestinians and are nothing less than collective punishment ”

The UN Human Rights Oﬃce declared that aid deliveries will “grind to a halt” without UNRWA, and the head of the World Health Organisation called the development “intolerable ”

UNICEF chief Catherine Russell declared that “this decision is dangerous; the lives and futures of Palestinian children are at stake,” while James Elder, a UNICEF staﬀer in the region, denounced the decision, saying “ a new way has been found to kill children ”

Belize said that UNRWA is “irreplaceable,” adding “it is not just an aid agency

“It provides education, healthcare, social services and protection for Palestinian refugees In Gaza, starvation and deprivation of water and the destruction of health services have been used by the Israeli state to complement its bombing and shelling in its commission of genocide

“Israel has ignored the binding orders of the International Court of Justice to stop the killing and allow humanitarian aid UNRWA has so far been able to fill some of the people’s needs, but its banning is certain to cause a substantial increase in the number of people dying and suffering from lack of food, water and health care,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade said in the statement

Bahamian legislator Kirk Cornish

acquitted of rape and assault charges

Bahamas' North Abaco legislator Kirk Cornish has been acquitted of multiple charges, including two counts of rape and one count of assault The verdict was

d e l i v

r e d l a s t Thursday, bringing an end to what Cornish described as one of the most challenging periods of his life

After less than t w o h o u r s o f deliberation, a ninem e m b e r j u r y unanimously found him not guilty of the rape and assault

c h a r g e s , a n d delivered a 6-3 verdict of not guilty on two additional assault and death threat charges

Justice Renae McKay, who presided over the three-week trial, thanked the jury for their service before oﬃcially acquitting Cornish

This trial was the second to take place regarding these allegations, as the ﬁrst jury was dismissed in May due to a reported connection between one member and the leader of the opposition

Following the jury's decision, Cornish issued a statement expressing his gratitude to his legal team and relief at the outcome He reaﬃrmed his commitment to the people of North Abaco and acknowledged their unwavering support throughout the ordeal

“Today, I am blessed to turn the page on what has been the most diﬃcult chapter of my life,” he stated “To the people of North Abaco, I want you to know how deeply I appreciate your support Your faith in me, even through these challenges, has been a profound source of strength, and I am truly humbled by the belief you ' ve shown ”

Antigua Mourns the sudden death of MP Asot Michael

The nation of Antigua and Barbuda is in mourning following the tragic passing of Asot Michael, the Member of Parliament for the St Peter constituency Michael was found dead in his home in St John's on Tuesday morning, reportedly in a pool of blood The exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, prompting an investigation by local authorities

While police have yet to release a statement regarding the discovery of Michael's body, the news has sent shockwaves throughout the country A crowd gathered outside his residence in Dry Hill, on the outskirts of the capital, to pay their respects and express their grief

Born on December 21, 1969, in Guadeloupe, Michael had a signiﬁcant political career, having served as a minister in a previous administration under Prime Minister Gaston Browne He contested the last general election in January 2023 as an independent candidate after leaving the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP)

As the investigation into his untimely death unfolds, the people of Antigua and Barbuda remember Michael for his contributions to the nation and express their condolences to his family during this diﬃcult time

Guyana Chamber concerned about counterfeit and expired goods being sold to consumers

Furthermore, the GCCI is appealing to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and its Customs Department to ensure that all imported goods comply with regulatory

requirements during the clearance process

The Bureau of Standards and the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department have been known to conduct periodic raids on businesses to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations

The GCCI noted the necessity for a closer examination of tax law adherence among businesses to promote equal enforcement of the law across the industry

The GCCI has expressed its readiness to fully support the government of Guyana in investigating non-compliant businesses and penalizing violations to uphold the integrity of the market

Cornish

Asot Micheal

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A time for reﬂection; moving forward together

The outcome of the recent U S. presidential election on November 5 has left many Caribbean Americans feeling disappointed, especially those in South Florida who supported Kamala Harris a candidate with Caribbean heritage and Democratic ideals that resonate within this community For some, her loss feels personal, as many had hoped Harris would bring a perspective to the White House that acknowledged and uplifted immigrant communities

Since the election, there's been a ﬂood of feedback about the strategies employed by the Harris/Walz campaign and the broader Democratic Party Many argue that President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the race came too late, putting Harris in the diﬃcult position of a shorter campaign window

Additionally, there's been speculation that Harris's choice of running mate, Tim Walz, may not have maximized her appeal among moderate and undecided voters as a more wellknown ﬁgure, such as Pennsylvania's Governor Josh Shapiro, might have done These critiques reﬂect the ongoing public debate surrounding the Democratic Party's tactics, choices, and timing in this election

It's worth acknowledging the challenges Harris faced as a candidate with only 144 days to introduce and build her vision for America

In contrast, her opponent has been building a base and maintaining a campaign mentality since 2016, with a four-year presidency that solidified his influence over his supporters Some Caribbean Americans and others argue that Harris's campaign suffered from racial and gender biases, creating hurdles that are difficult to quantify yet were keenly felt by those who supported her bid for the presidency

For those who feel anxious about the future, it's important to remember that this election was conducted under the protection of the U S Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to freely elect their leaders This process,

while not without ﬂaws, has stood the test of time. Over recent months, candidates communicated their visions, policies, and priorities clearly, giving voters the opportunity to weigh their choices Ultimately, the American people have spoken, exercising their democratic right in a historic turnout

Some voters expressed discomfort with the party's strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, suggesting that a more nuanced approach to certain social issues might align better with the values of diverse communities.

The U S government is structured with checks and balances that prevent any single ﬁgure or party from exercising absolute control

The power of the presidency is limited by the roles of Congress and the Supreme Court, as well as state governments History has repeatedly shown that even when one party holds sway across the executive and legislative branches, the separation of powers safeguards against excessive authority Although some fear the potential erosion of these protections, there's little evidence to suggest that the principles of the Constitution will be easily subverted Defeat can be a painful experience, particularly when one has invested their hopes and dreams in a speciﬁc candidate But it can also provide valuable lessons and opportunities to reassess strategies This election highlighted areas where the Democratic Party may need to make changes In Florida, for example,

Republican voter registrations have far outpaced those of Democrats, especially among new citizens and other voting blocs traditionally thought to lean Democratic Some have suggested that the Democratic Party needs to place greater focus on grassroots registration and outreach, especially in states where demographics are shifting

Additionally, some community members and political analysts have argued that elements of the Democratic Party's platform may have alienated potential supporters For example, some voters expressed discomfort with the party's strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, suggesting that a more nuanced approach to certain social issues might align better with the values of diverse communities This feedback underscores the importance of understanding cultural nuances within the electorate and taking them into account when shaping policies

While disappointment over Kamala Harris's defeat is understandable, her loss does not diminish the rights or voices of Caribbean Americans They are an integral part of the nation, and it is their continued engagement that will shape the future, no matter which party holds oﬃce Rather than feeling discouraged, the community can use this moment to strengthen their commitment to civic participation, ensuring that their needs and perspectives remain part of the national conversation Harris's defeat, while disheartening, is not a reason to surrender Instead, it's a reminder of the importance of resilience and the ongoing work required to secure a more inclusive vision for all citizens

Jerk Festival

BCT offering stress-free rides to Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival

For food lovers and culture seekers, Broward County is buzzing with energy this season, oﬀering a rich tapestry of Caribbean festivals, mouth-watering cuisine, and live music

From the spicy, sizzling dishes at the annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival to the vibrant rhythms of soca and reggae concerts, there's no shortage of enjoyable experiences

The twenty-first annual Jerk Festival, Sunday, November 10, at Miramar Regional Park, is a favorite celebration among Broward's Caribbean community It showcases the finest jerk dishes and authentic Caribbean eateries, offering everything from spicy jerk chicken and savory patties to jerk ice cream The one-day event brings together food lovers, music enthusiasts, and culture seekers for a day of island vibes

The annual celebration doesn't stop at ﬂavorful food With live performances, cookoﬀs, cultural presentations, and a variety of vendors, it promises excitement for the whole family However, as many SoFlo residents know, with large crowds come parking challenges, and the annual Jerk Festival draws over 10,000 attendees to the one-hundredand-acre park

According to the event's website, Jerk Fest is expected to draw thousands, and attendees are highly encouraged to utilize public transit because parking can be frustrating at the large park

“Route 28 is an excellent option for attendees to be dropped oﬀ right in front of the park, it's a great way to leave the car behind and avoid parking at the park ” said BCT CEO/General Manager Coree Cuﬀ Lonergan

Broward County Transit's website boasts

“Route 28 is an excellent option for attendees to be dropped oﬀ right in front of the park, it's a great way to leave the car behind and avoid parking at the park. It's easy to use the bus; if you try it once and see, it'll change the way you think about getting around ” – Cuﬀ Lonergan

convenient transportation options to many Broward destinations which guests can arrive ready to enjoy the festival without worrying about traffic or parking And with so many hidden gems and local spots to explore this season, hopping on a bus and taking in the sights along the way can turn a simple outing into an adventure “It's easy to use the bus; if you try it once and see, it'll change the way you think about getting around,” Cuff Lonergan shared If you ' re looking for more music and cultural excitement, skip the stress of parking and let the journey be part of the fun as you easily navigate Broward County's best offerings Visit www broward org/BCT or call 954-357-8400 to find the route that will take you to the best food, festivals, and fun this season

The Publix Culinary Pavilion

Get ready for an unforgettable gastronomic experience at the Publix Culinary Stage! This incredible festival feature is jampacked with food-centric excitement, featuring mouthwatering samplings, cooking demonstrations, epic competitions with celebrity chefs, food bloggers, and local TV personalities, all hosted by the amazing Chef Irie.

With high-energy cook-oﬀs and plenty of chances for audience involvement and giveaways, this promises to be an interactive and exciting experience you simply can’t miss And that’s not all – prepare for engaging Q&A sessions with food experts Calling all foodies –this is a feature you absolutely must experience

Host

and Resident Chef: Chef Irie

Meet Chef Hugh Sinclair, better known as Chef Irie – the culinary mastermind behind Chef Irie Spice Inc , serving unforgettable dishes across South Florida While he holds a degree in architecture from the University of Florida, designing buildings just couldn’t compare to his true love: crafting ﬂavors! Trading blueprints for cutting boards, Chef Irie ditched the world of architecture for the sizzle and spice of the kitchen, enrolling in Johnson & Wales University’s Culinary Arts program

Graduating with ﬂying colors (and a lot of delicious meals), he’s since become a culinary force in the Sunshine State

From personal chef gigs for athletes and entertainers to cooking for South Florida’s elite, Chef Irie’s ﬂavorful creations have been winning hearts and appetites alike But his talents don’t stop there! You might recognize him from the hit TV show “Taste the Islands with Chef Irie,” a PBS

f a v o r i t e t h a t showcases the vibrant ﬂ a v o r s o f t h e Caribbean It’s the ﬁrst of its kind, bringing Caribbean cuisine into the spotlight for food lovers nationwide Oh, and let’s not forget his appear-

ance on the Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen,” where Chef Irie sliced and diced his way to the second round

Catch Chef Irie live at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival and experience how his passion for food is truly irresistible!

TheChefClash

Get ready for an epic culinary showdown as Chef Lemaire and Chef Williams go headto-head in an exciting Chef Clash! Watch these two master chefs battle it out with bold ﬂavors and creative twists, bringing heat to the stage

Chef Alain Lemaire

Award-winning Chef Alain Lemaire is a native of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where he ﬁrst discovered his interest in cooking. That interest in food grew out of the need to feed himself what he wanted, and when he wanted it by watching his mother and grandmother in the kitchen, to fullblown passion by the time he graduated high school Alain is the Co-owner and Executive Chef of Sensory Delights, a full-service catering company based in South Florida He also owns the brand “Ou Manje Deja?” which means “Did You Eat Yet?”

Chef Alain Lemaire has appeared on several TV shows in the USA, Canada, and Haiti He was the host chef of the “Taste of Haiti” episode of the “Luda Can’t Cook” series with award-winning rapper, actor, and restauranteur Chris “Ludacris” Bridges He was also a contestant on the Food Network’s hit series

Kitchen, and Chopped

has participated in and been featured as a guest chef at numerous food events

and festivals throughout the United States and overseas Recent events include the Charleston Wine & Food Festival, New York African Restaurant Week, Grace Jamaican Jerk Fest, South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and more He also lands his voice and expertise as a panel speaker for Munaluchi’s Coterie Retreat, New York African Restaurant Week, A Week on Haiti, and more In addition, Chef Alain Lemaire has been featured in several online and printed publications such as USA Today, The New York Times, Saveur Magazine, Food & Wine Magazine, Epicurious, and more

Chef Winston Williams Inspired by his mother and grandmother, Chef Winston Williams began his culinary journey early, falling in love with cooking while working at a top resort in St Thomas, U S Virgin Islands He honed his skills at Florida Culinary-New England Tech in Florida and now runs a successful catering business, Catering CC Inc , specializing in Floribbean Cuisine

Today, he continues to cater, hosts a weekly YouTube cooking show, coaches aspiring caterers, and oﬀers a shared commercial kitchen space His product line includes spices and his Virgin Islands Johnnycake-Pate do gh mi

An award-win Winston, has cater Bowls, authored eis a preferred v venues His missi memorable culina and teach essenti home cooks and sta

Culinary Demonstratio

Chef Reece

Meet Travis “C Reece” Reece, mastermind behind Chef Reece Kitchen beloved Jamaic fusion spot in Dav Florida, known for

ﬂavors that are truly “out of this world ” Born in Kingston and raised on a farm in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, Chef Reece’s passion for food took root early as he helped his grandmother care for animals and harvest fresh produce Though once dreaming of becoming an agronomist, the kitchen became his true calling

What started with selling plates of his mouthwatering dishes grew into a thriving catering business, Taste of Jamrock, where he served bold, ﬂavorful Jamaican fusion to celebrities, athletes, and food lovers Chef Reece’s journey from Jamaica to becoming a celebrated chef in South Florida is a testament to his love for great food and his deep connection to his roots

Chef Darian

Straight from Jamaica, Chef Darian is heating up Buffalo, NY and beyond with his bold flavors and bigger-than-life style! You may recognize him from his appearance in Dodge Ram commercials, or from his features on Food Network, CBS News, ESPN, and more Known for his unforgettable “Jerk Hut” events, Chef Darian serves up colossal surf and turf and other Caribbeaninspired dishes that leave you craving more From fine dining pop-ups to private events and meal prep for pro athletes, this culinary rock star believes food should make people happy His signature fedoras and chef jackets are just as extra as his dishes, blending fine dining with island vibes Chef Darian’s mission? To represent Jamaica to the fullest while spreading joy through every bite Follow his flavorful journey on Instagram @chefdarianbryan, and come watch him in action at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival as he executes a live culinary demonstration you won’t want to miss!

Williams

Lemaire

Chef Darian

Chef Reece

Chef Irie

Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival to showcase Caribbean culture with dynamic performances Jerk Festival

The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, set for November 10 at Miramar Regional Park, promises not just culinary delights but a rich tapestry of Caribbean culture and entertainment This year's cultural presentations will celebrate the vibrancy and creativity that define the Caribbean spirit, offering a lineup filled with talented performers and memorable experiences

Festival-goers can look forward to an inspiring lineup of cultural presentations, starting with the soul-stirring poetry of Sharon Corinthian, a poet known for weaving themes of heritage, resilience, and community into her powerful verses Her performances are sure to evoke both thought and emotion, resonating deeply with all who attend

The event will also feature the stunning Afrocentric fashion showcase by Mamayashi, a designer revered for her bold, handcrafted garments that honor African and Caribbean aesthetics Festival attendees will have the opportunity to appreciate fashion that is as much art as it is apparel, embodying heritage and pride

Bringing the stage to life with movement and passion is the Sasa African Dance Theater, known for their electrifying performances that fuse traditional African dance with modern rhythms Their shows are a visual and auditory feast, bringing a high-energy vibe that's hard to match

For those seeking a moment of peace amidst the excitement, Yoga Babe Rocki will lead a session to unwind and reconnect with the body and mind Her approach, combining soothing techniques and positive energy, oﬀers festival-goers a chance to recharge before diving back into the festivities

Adding a hearty dose of laughter is Delcita, the legendary comedienne whose witty storytelling and comedic timing have made her a household name across the Caribbean Known for her relatable humor and dynamic performances, Delcita is bound to keep audiences entertained and engaged

Attendees can also look forward to being transported through time and tradition with Queen Maxine, a master storyteller whose narrative prowess brings Caribbean folktales and history to life Her performances are not just stories but vivid experiences, inviting listeners of all ages to lose themselves in tales rich with culture and wisdom

Guiding the day's program is none other than Chris “Johnny” Daley, the beloved host, actor, and comedian who brings his infectious energy and charm to every event His presence ensures that the audience stays entertained, connected, and fully immersed in the celebration

The sounds of the festival will be amplified by the rhythms of DJ Radcliffe and Extatic Sound, whose music will keep feet moving and spirits high throughout the day Their blend of classic and contemporary Caribbean beats ensures a non-stop party atmosphere from start to finish

The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is more than just an event; it's an experience that brings together the best in food, music, and cultural expression With such a stellar lineup of talent, November 10 at Miramar Regional Park is set to be a day ﬁlled with laughter, inspiration, and a true celebration of Caribbean heritage Don't miss out on this unforgettable event that promises something for everyone!

Chris “Johnny” Daley

Delcita

Sharon Corinthian

Mamayashi

Extatic Sound

DJ Radcliffe

Jerk Festival

Elephant Man

To Ignite The Stage

The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is set to ignite the stage this November with an electrifying lineup that promises a day packed with music, food, and vibrant culture.

Headlining this year's event is the Energy God himself, Elephant Man, famed for his pulse-raising performances and chart-topping hits like “Pon De River, Pon De Bank,” “Signal Di Plane,” and “Nuh Linga ”

With his unmatched energy and dynamic showmanship, Elephant Man's appearance is sure to be a highlight, drawing both dancehall veterans and new fans to the festival grounds

Taking place on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at Miramar Regional Park from 1 PM to 10 PM, the festival will also showcase an impressive lineup of talent that complements Elephant Man's headlining act The entertaining newcomer Nigy Boy, the powerful voice of Shuga, the legendary sounds of Chalice, and the harmonious presence of The Fantells will all share the stage, adding layers of musical brilliance throughout the day Keeping the crowd engaged and dancing between sets, Richie D, DJ Radcliﬀ, and EXTATIC Sound will ensure a steady stream of infectious Caribbean beats

Guiding the day's festivities will be the lively and entertaining Chris Daley and Jody Ann Gray, whose vibrant hosting styles promise to keep the audience connected and excited The festival experience extends beyond the music, with an abundance of expertly prepared jerk dishes available for attendees to savor The VIP Pavilion oﬀers an elevated experience with premium food, curated cocktails, and front-row access to performances for those seeking exclusive perks

November 10 at Miramar Regional Park is set to be an epic day where attendees can immerse themselves in unbeatable music, mouthwatering cuisine, and a true celebration of Caribbean culture

The Celebrity Quick Fire Challenge

This year the Publix Culinary Pavilion will feature guest celebrities competing in the Celebrity Quick Fire Challenge. Local 10 Reporter Alexis Frazier will challenge NBC6 Weekday Morning Anchor Kris Andersen in our Celebrity Quickﬁre Challenge

Alexis Frazier

As the morning traﬃc reporter, Alexis Frazier joined the Local 10 News team in April 2020 Within a year, she was promoted to Anchor, her show on WSFL, bringing fresh entertainment stories to viewers weekly She also co-anchors the weekend News on Local 10

She is a proud Floridian born and raised in Fort Lauderdale Before returning to the Sunshine State, Alexis gained over 5 years of experience as an Anchor/Reporter at ABC aﬃliates in Texas and South Carolina

Kris Anderson

Kris Anderson is a ﬁve-time Emmy® award-winning news anchor at NBC6 He currently anchors NBC6 Today, weekday mornings at 5am and 6am, and is the host of “Innovation on 6,” a segment dedicated to technology in South Florida

The Miami native, who started his career as an intern at NBC6 more than 25 years ago, is a graduate of Miami Central Senior High School, and earned his bachelor’s degree in communications from Florida International University 25 years after graduating from FIU, Kris is back at his alma mater working on his master’s degree in Global Strategic Communications Kris is thrilled to be back in his hometown, close to family and friends, anchoring for the TV station he grew up watching! He believes that everyone has a story to tell and loves that his job as a journalist allows him to help people tell theirs

Nigy Boy

Cannabis edibles may be tasty but should be consumed with caution

Edible cannabis products come in many forms, such as candies, desserts, snacks and beverages, but they should not be consumed like tasty treats, warn three cannabis experts.

“They're yummy, and you may not stop with one little morsel You want to eat the whole thing You don't know the eﬀects of it and, before you know it, it's a really bad experience,” says Dr Uma Dhanabalan, a family physician who is widely respected as an educator of cannabis and its therapeutic uses Dr Uma, as she prefers to be called, is also the founder and CEO of Global Health & Hygiene Solutions and Uplifting Health and Wellness, both based in Cambridge, Massachusetts

Her cautious approach to edibles is shared by Jacquie Cohen Roth, MS, founder and CEO of Maryland-based CannabizMD and nonproﬁt Tea Pad, and Dominique Gibson, a Jacksonville, Florida, chef with expertise in cooking with cannabis

Ms Cohen Roth earned her master's degree in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, where she is an adjunct professor Like Dr Uma and Ms Gibson, she is a proponent of medical cannabis edibles as a treatment for qualiﬁed conditions, but with a caveat

When someone consumes edibles infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it takes time for the psychoactive ingredient to kick in, taking anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours before their eﬀects are felt This delayed release fools some people into eating another brownie or gummy or beverage before the previous edible has been fully absorbed in the body But while the eﬀect of THC may take some time to be realized, its intoxicating

inﬂuence may last several hours So, patience is key with edibles

Ms Cohen Roth adds that “when edibles are processed in the liver, they actually go through metabolism with one particular enzyme that makes THC even stronger ” She says that overconsuming edibles can trigger an increased heart rate, paranoia and nausea, but these side eﬀects will pass

“So, the best thing to do if you ' ve had too

“They're yummy, and you may not stop with one little morsel You want to eat the whole thing. You don't know the effects of it and, before you know it, it's a really bad experience,” – Dr. Dhanabalan

much cannabis is just chill out, literally chill out My recommendation is always to have a CBD [cannabidiol] tincture on hand that will get into your system very quickly and help oﬀset too much of that THC in your system,” she says “The one thing about cannabis is it cannot kill you ” Such variables with the potency of edibles are even more reason to seek the guidance of a medical marijuana qualiﬁed physician and to purchase cannabis-related products only from a dispensary (medical marijuana treatment center)

In Florida, all legal medical marijuana products are regulated by the state and bear a certiﬁcate of analysis (COA) The COA conﬁrms the product has passed a range of tests and includes information on its contents, including percentages of THC and CBD

“It's going to tell you if it's been exposed to water or pesticides It's going to give you pretty much all the information that you need to make an educated decision based on what you need as a patient or just as an individual,” says Chef Gibson “And when it comes to the edibles, COAs also have the nutrition facts listed for people that may have allergies or people that have gluten allergies or diﬀerent things like that ”

She added, “ you still have to use a little bit of common sense when you are consuming something that is being manufactured with diﬀerent types of things If a cannabis product has a weird chemical smell, then beware ” Dr Uma stresses that cannabis use should be “personalized” because the drug's eﬃcacy varies from one person to the next Body weight, diet, age, quality of health and cognition, and the use of alcohol or prescription drugs factor into a patient's treatment

“Make sure you have liquids because cannabis is a dehydrant Make sure you have food on board because cannabis causes your blood sugar to drop, and that can make you more anxious Just as much as it treats anxiety, it can cause anxiety,” she says

Editor's note: This commentary is provided by the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) of Florida A&M University

Visit https://bit ly/TastyTHC to watch MMERI's Conversations on Cannabis Virtual Forum featuring medical cannabis experts Dr. Uma Dhanabalan, Jacquie Cohen Roth, MS, and Chef Dominique Gibson talking about cannabis edibles and concentrates

Dhanabalan

Community

Miami-Dade County elects a sheriff for the ﬁrst time in 60 years

In a historic election, Miami-Dade County voters selected Rosie Cordero-Stutz as their new sheriﬀ, marking the ﬁrst time in more than six decades the county has elected someone to the position

Cordero-Stutz, a Republican and the assistant director of investigative services at the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), won decisively over her opponent, Democrat James Reyes, the county's public safety director

Reyes conceded the race shortly after 8 p m on election night, expressing gratitude to his supporters “My life's work has been about public service and putting the community first, which is why I decided to run for sheriff Though tonight's results are not what we worked so hard for or what we hoped, I am so grateful to my family, our dedicated campaign team, and our incredible volunteers who have done so much to fight for our shared vision of public safety and public trust,” Reyes stated

He added that he looks forward to spending time with his family and continuing his role as Miami-Dade's Chief of Public Safety to ensure a seamless transition to the newly elected sheriﬀ Reyes also oﬀered congratulations to Cordero-Stutz, expressing his willingness to work alongside her in maintaining community safety

Cordero-Stutz brings nearly 30 years of experience with

the MDPD, where she started as a patrol officer and ascended to her current role overseeing investigative services Throughout her career, she has managed high-profile cases, from robbery investigations to homicides Her campaign was bolstered by endorsements from high-profile figures and organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former President Donald Trump, and 27 current Florida sheriffs Reyes, a veteran with over 20 years at the Broward Sheriff's Office where he led both administrative and detention departments, was hired to lead Miami-Dade County Corrections and later appointed public safety director by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava His campaign focused on priorities such as enhancing inter-agency communication, investing in advanced crime-fighting technologies, building public trust, and increasing transparency He received support from Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony, the Police Benevolent Association, and former Miami-Dade Police Director Freddy Ramirez

Cordero-Stutz's victory ushers in a new era for law enforcement leadership in Miami-Dade County as she prepares to take on the responsibilities of the oﬃce and build on her extensive career in public safety

Jamaica's Ambassador thanks US Pastor Donald McClurkin for post-hurricane aid

Jamaica's Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Audrey Marks, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to renowned American gospel singer and pastor, Donald McClurkin Jr , for his church's generous support in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl

Pastor McClurkin, who leads the Perfecting Faith Church in New York, and his congregation were recognized for their contributions during a service on Sunday, October 27, 2024

Addressing the congregation, Ambassador Marks conveyed her appreciation for the outpouring of aid provided by the church's Missions Department “I extend my sincere gratitude to Pastor McClurkin, the 'honorary yardie,' and the other members of the congregation for their generosity extended to my fellow Jamaicans,” she said She highlighted the invaluable assistance provided through medical services and essential supplies

“Many thanks to dentists and nurses who donated their services The seeds, fruit trees, and livestock provided in the

aftermath of Hurricane Beryl were both timely and greatly appreciated We are also very appreciative of the homes built, providing well-needed shelter for two needy families,” Ambassador Marks continued

In her address, she praised the church's commitment to community outreach, stating, “I must also applaud this church as you are a 'church on the move ' where 'ministry meets the people ' I encourage you to be 'steadfast, unmovable, and always

Former Miami-Dade corrections

abounding in the work of the Lord' because your labour is not in vain ”

Pastor McClurkin, in response, expressed his deep connection to Jamaica and its culture, noting that some tracks on his albums were inspired by Jamaican gospel songs He shared that his motivation to give stemmed from this bond and his dedication to supporting those in need

“This is not a small thing, and I'm glad to be a part of this I'm glad that our church, Perfecting Faith Church in New York, could be a part and partner with them and make this happen,” McClurkin said He reﬂected on the satisfaction of providing aid, emphasizing that donating a home equipped with proper amenities to a mother of ﬁve was particularly meaningful to him

Pastor McClurkin's commitment to Jamaica is longstanding, with this being one of several contributions he and his church have made over the years His ongoing support has made a signiﬁcant impact, fostering hope and relief for many aﬀected by natural disasters

The Don fromA1

Republicans also regained Senate control with notable wins in West Virginia and Ohio, while ongoing House races in New York and California have Democrats striving to recover seats previously held by Republicans

Speaking on election night, Trump addressed his supporters: “We overcame obstacles that nobody ever thought we could ” He pledged to advocate for American families and lead the nation into what he termed a “golden age of America ”

Trump's campaign was heavily focused on economic issues, particularly inﬂation, which resonated strongly with voters frustrated by the economic outlook Exit polls showed a notable advantage among Georgia's independent voters, driven by economic concerns His stance on immigration also drew support, with many voters seeing him as more eﬀective in handling the southern border

At 78, Trump becomes the oldest elected president in U S history, surpassing Joe Biden, who exited the 2024 race in July As Trump prepares to navigate his presidency amid ongoing legal challenges, his return signals a new chapter in American politics

In Florida, while Trump won with over 56% of the vote, Broward County leaned toward Kamala Harris, who secured 58% of the county's votes Broward voters also re-elected Gregory Tony as sheriﬀ, defeating Charles Whatley

Several mayoral races took place across Broward County cities, including Cooper City, Fort Lauderdale, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Lauderdale Lakes, Lauderhill, Pompano Beach, Southwest Ranches, Sunrise, and Wilton Manors

Daniel Fleureme, 56, a former Corrections Oﬃcer with the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department (MDCRD), has admitted to defrauding a COVID-19 relief program by securing an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) through false claims

Fleureme pled guilty on October 31 to wire fraud charges in relation to the scheme, which involved misrepresentations to the U S Small Business Administration (SBA)

The fraudulent activity stemmed from an application submitted on July 27, 2020, while Fleureme was employed full-time at MDCRD In the application, he falsely stated that he was the sole owner of a business operating under his name, claiming it was established on February 15, 2017, and employed three people as of January 31, 2020

He further certiﬁed that the business had generated $450,000 in gross revenues and incurred $97,000 in costs during the previous year These false assertions allowed Fleureme to obtain approximately $150,000 in EIDL proceeds from the SBA

The EIDL program was part of the broader Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which aimed

to support individuals and businesses aﬀected by the economic downturn due to the COVID19 pandemic The SBA directly administered these loans to assist businesses facing substantial ﬁnancial disruptions

Fleureme is scheduled for sentencing on January 7, 2025, at 11:00 a m , before U S District Judge Jose E Martinez in Miami He could face up to 20 years in prison, with the ﬁnal sentence being determined after the court reviews the U S Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant factors

The announcement was made by U S Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, FBI Special Agent in Charge Jeﬀrey B Veltri, Miami-Dade County Oﬃce of Inspector General (M-DC OIG)

Inspector General Felix Jimenez, and SBA Oﬃce of Inspector General (SBA OIG) Eastern Region Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite

The case was investigated by the FBI's Miami Area Corruption Task Force, which includes oﬃcers from the M-DC OIG and worked in collaboration with the SBA OIG

Assistant U S Attorney Edward N Stamm is leading the prosecution

A major win for the Caribbean-American community came in Lauderhill, where Jamaican-American Denise Grant was elected mayor with 62 69% of the vote, defeating Lawrence “Jabbow” Martin

Grant has served on the Lauderhill City Commission since November 2018 In 2020, she was elected as Vice Mayor of the city She gained the respect of her constituents by championing impactful community programs, policies, and initiatives, earning her numerous awards and accolades In addition to her role as Commissioner, Grant also serves on various governmental boards, including the National League of Cities Human Development committee

In Lauderhill's Commission race, popular WAVS 1170 radio broadcaster, JamaicanAmerican John T Hodgkins won a seat to the City of Lauderhill Commission (seat 1), gaining 33 87 of the vote

Current commissioners Melissa Dunn (seat 2) and Ray Martin (seat 3) will also return to the city Commission Additionally, In addition, Jamaican-American Richard Campbell will ﬁnally take his seat on the Lauderhill Commission (seat 4) after multiple prior campaigns

Cordero-Stultz

McClurkin

Quincy Jones, legendary music producer and composer, dies at 91

Quincy Jones, the multi-talented music producer and composer whose career shaped generations of music, died on Sunday night at his home in Los Angeles' Bel Air neighborhood He was surrounded by family, according to a statement from his publicist, Arnold Robinson

“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones' passing,” his family said “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones' heart will beat for eternity ”

Jones' profound impact on the music industry is unrivaled, spanning his work on Michael Jackson's Thriller the best-selling album of all time to prize-winning ﬁlm scores and collaborations with legends like Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles His production credits on Jackson's Oﬀ the Wall, Thriller, and Bad albums cemented Jackson's status as the “King of Pop” and showcased Jones' unparalleled ability to blend pop, soul, and funk

Jones, who had deep ties to the Caribbean through collaborations with artists of Caribbean descent like Harry Belafonte and his own inﬂuence on music culture in the region, enjoyed global recognition His friendships extended to international leaders, presidents, philanthropists, and musicians, making him a cultural

and musical ambassador worldwide

Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones' early years were marked by hardship He witnessed his mother's institutionalization due to emotional difficulties and spent much of his childhood on the streets, navigating gang life and crime His path shifted when he discovered music A piano in a neighbor's house ignited his passion, and by age 10, after moving to Washington state, Jones' musical curiosity flourished A chance encounter with a recreation center piano led to years of learning the trumpet and forging a friendship with a young, blind Ray Charles an enduring bond that shaped his career Jones' influence extended beyond his groundbreaking work as a musician and producer He became one of the first Black executives to break racial barriers in Hollywood, serving as vice president at Mercury Records in the early 1960s He also made history as the first Black musical director for the Academy Awards in 1971 His film and television scores, including the soundtrack for Roots and In the Heat of the

Night, earned him accolades, as did his production of The Color Purple, which garnered 11 Oscar nominations

His leadership in organizing the iconic

We Are the World charity single in 1985, featuring artists like Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, and Bruce Springsteen, raised millions for famine relief in Africa Richie once called Jones “the master orchestrator,” a tribute to his ability to unify and elevate a diverse roster of talent

Jones' life story was chronicled in his memoir Q, which highlighted his struggles and triumphs, and was further celebrated in documentaries like Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones (1990) and a 2018 ﬁlm directed by his daughter, Rashida Jones Honored with 28 Grammys, an Emmy for Roots, and two honorary Academy Awards, Jones' list of accolades also included France's Legion d'Honneur and Italy's Rudolph Valentino Award His lasting contributions to music and culture earned him a Kennedy Center Honor, cementing his legacy as a trailblazer who changed the sound of modern music

Jamaica gospel music industry raises $600,000

for Lt. Stitchie

The Jamaica Gospel Music Industry has contributed $600,000 to support veteran deejay Cleve “Lt Stitchie” Laing, who remains in a long-term care facility after suﬀering a severe stroke in September

The funds, raised at the “Hearts and Hands Beneﬁt Concert for Stitchie” on October 18, were presented to his wife, Sophia Laing, and manager, Raﬃque “Ali” Archibald The cheque was handed over by event organizers and radio broadcasters Nadine Blair and Markland “Action” Edwards, alongside gospel singer Prince Hall, during a worship service at The New Testament Church of God in Kingston on Sunday

The beneﬁt concert featured over 15 gospel artists, including Jermaine Edwards, Sebastian Braham, Goddy Goddy, Junior Tucker, Sister Patt, Johnmark Wiggan, and Jai Kingston, all of whom performed without charge to aid their ailing colleague

In addition to the concert proceeds, Sophia Laing last month received a signiﬁcant cash donation of US$10,000 (approximately $1 5 million) from Shaggy and Bounty Killer's The Bounty Foundation, presented at PAJ Limited in Kingston

These contributions come as Stitchie's family continues to seek support through a GoFundMe campaign with a target of USD $100,000 to cover extensive medical and rehabilitation costs

Stitchie, a revered ﬁgure in the reggae and dancehall community, is undergoing specialized treatment after a severe brain hemorrhage left him unresponsive

The GoFundMe page also highlighted the escalating costs of Stitchie's medical care and the importance of rehabilitation “Every donation, no matter how small, will make a diﬀerence and bring hope to Cleve and his family during this diﬃcult journey,” the family stated, urging fans and supporters to share the campaign to help reach the fundraising goal

Spice receives platinum plaque in Canada for hit single 'Go Down Deh'

Queen of Dancehall Spice has added another accolade to her illustrious career, oﬃcially receiving her platinum plaque from Canada for her chart-topping single “Go Down Deh ”

The track, which features fellow Jamaican music legends Shaggy and Sean Paul, is from her Grammy-nominated album 10 and has solidiﬁed its status as a dancehall anthem Certiﬁed platinum earlier this year by Music Canada, “Go Down Deh” has surpassed 80,000 units in combined sales and streaming equivalents, cementing its place as the decade's biggest dancehall hit

Produced by Shaggy and Constantin “Costi” Ioniță, “Go Down Deh” has resonated worldwide, racking up over 280 million views on YouTube and over 240 million streams on Spotify The song's infectious rhythm, catchy lyrics, and powerhouse trio have propelled it to the forefront of global dancehall music, earning critical and commercial success

Spice took to Instagram to celebrate the milestone, sharing her gratitude with fans and shouting out her collaborators “Big up my hero @direalshaggy @duttypaul,” she posted, also giving thanks to VP Records for their unwavering support Her acknowledgment underscores the collaborative eﬀort that brought the song to life and its farreaching impact

The official music video for “Go Down Deh,” directed by Jay Will, has played a significant role in its success, with its visually captivating production amplifying the song's appeal This platinum certification is Spice's first in Canada, a testament to her expanding global influence and the crossover appeal of

dancehall

Spice, who continues to blaze new trails in her career, recently released the single “Sitt'n Fi Chat” with VP Records, celebrating her 25 years in dancehall This release follows her latest album, Mirror 25, which showcases her enduring talent and adaptability in the evolving music scene The platinum achievement for “Go Down Deh” adds another chapter to her legacy, reinforcing her status as a leading ﬁgure in the genre

Quincy Jones

Spice

CRICKET: Rambaran and Layne shine as West Indies Academy notch ﬁrst Super50 victory

SURFING: Bajan surf star Tuach impresses, narrowly falls in La Marginal ﬁnal to McGonagle

TRACK: Thea LaFondGadson awarded Dominica’s highest honor for historic Olympic gold

Sports

Julien Alfred faces McLaughlin-Levrone for Women’s Track Athlete of the Year

St Lucia’s sprint sensation, Julien Alfred, has been named a ﬁnalist for the highly esteemed Women’s Track Athlete of the Year award, where she will compete against American Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone for the title

Alfred, 23, made history at the Paris Olympics earlier this year by securing gold in the women ’ s 100 meters and silver in the 200 meters, marking her as the ﬁrst athlete from St Lucia to reach the Olympic podium Now, she faces a formidable rival in McLaughlinLevrone, the United States’ Olympic 400meter hurdles gold medalist, as they both vie for the top honor in women ’ s track

On the men ’ s side, Norwegian distance star Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Botswana’s sprint champion Letsile Tebogo have emerged as the ﬁnalists for Men’s Track Athlete of the Year

Ingebrigtsen clinched gold in the 5000 meters in Paris, while Tebogo captured headlines by winning gold in the 200 meters, defeating a highly competitive ﬁeld

Other categories include Women’s Field Athlete of the Year, where Ukraine’s high jump champion Yaroslava Mahuchikh and Belgium’s heptathlon star Naﬁssatou Thiam will contend for the honor The men ’ s ﬁeld category sees Sweden’s Olympic pole vault champion, Mondo Duplantis, up against Greece’s Miltiadis Tentoglou, who earned gold in the long jump

In the out-of-stadium categories, Ecuador’s Brian Pintado, who took gold in the Olympic 20km race walk, and Ethiopia’s marathon champion Tamirat Tola are nominated for Men’s Out-of-Stadium Athlete of the Year

Shai Hope joins West Indies greats with 17th ODI century

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Shai Hope, captain of the West Indies One Day International (ODI) team, expressed his deep sense of honor after scoring his 17th ODI century, a landmark that places him among some of the West Indies’ cricket legends

The 30-year-old’s performance during the second ODI match against England at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Sunday earned him 117 runs, moving him into the prestigious ranks of West Indian cricket history

This remarkable achievement means Hope now shares the third spot for the most

ODI centuries by a West Indian, equaling the record held by Desmond Haynes, one of the team’s most celebrated opening batsmen The only West Indies players with more centuries in ODIs are the iconic Brian Lara with 19 and Chris Gayle with an impressive 25 across his 298-match career

Despite the milestone, Hope emphasized that his focus remains on winning games for the West Indies, not on personal accolades

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday at Kensington Oval, he said, “It’s really not a big thing for me; the big thing for me is winning games Yes, you have to respect history, and

they’ve been around and doing great things for years, but if I’m scoring centuries and we don’t win, it really doesn’t feel like anything ”

For Hope, individual records hold value only when they help the team secure victories

“Yes, it’s a great achievement, but I want it to contribute to wins,” he added ﬁrmly

Reﬂecting on his career since debuting against Sri Lanka in 2016, Hope noted that he didn’t foresee reaching such heights back then

“It wasn’t something I thought about at all I just wanted to win games, and personally, if I get those big scores, it’s a plus,” he admitted “It’s something that people like to talk

about it’s not one of my forefronts but I wasn’t really thinking about scoring 17 or 20 hundreds for the West Indies in any form ”

He concluded by highlighting the privilege he feels to play the sport professionally and to represent the West Indies “I’m blessed to be doing this I’m getting to play the sport that I love, and I always wanted to play for the West Indies Growing up watching all of the legends play and just replicating some of the things that they’ve been doing is a special thing for me ”

CNWnetwork.com

Alfred McLaughlin-Levrone