Caribbean carnival enthusiasts have flocked to Miami for this weekend’s eagerly awaited Miami Carnival. The annual extravaganza promises not only a celebration of Caribbean culture, but also a significant boost to the local economy through a surge in bookings for South Florida hotels, car rentals, restaurants and more continues on B3
Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley is rumored to be a top contender for the United Nations Secretary-General position, with selection due in 2026.
Despite no official statement, insiders suggest Mottley is likely to be the favored candidate With the role historically cycling through different global regions, the next Secretary-General is anticipated to hail from Latin America or the Caribbean, favoring Mottley’s candidacy
As the position has never been held by a woman in its 78-year history, there’s significant pressure to appoint a female candidate Mottley meets this crucial criterion, standing out among potential candidates
Names like former Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos, Argentinian diplomat Rafael Grossi, and high-level UN officials Alicia Bárcena, Rebeca Grynspan, and Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garcés are also circulating as potential successors to current SecretaryGeneral António Guterres
Gonsalves Pledges Support
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime
Minister Ralph Gonsalves v support for Mottley, stating: “I would make a great Secretar Whatever she does, I will suppor Mottley, who has served Minister since 2018, is inte acclaimed for efforts in severing h colonial ties and addressing issu reparations, climate change financial institution reform He refusal to pander to powerful made her a popular choice diplomat expressed they would and down” with excitement if s selected
Over 60 Jamaican students rushed to hospital after being sold cannabis candy B2
NYU to screen documentary of J’can heroine Nanny of the Maroons
Teejay scores Billboard entry with ‘Drift’
October is National Breast Cancer Awarenes Month
Amid Haiti’s turmoil, where violence and hunger have gripped the nation, a group of resilient children in Portau-Prince are turning to the power of music. Despite the grim reality of gang-controlled streets, where daily conflicts claim lives and thousands live in fear, these young musicians have found hope in the rhythm of their beats.
Eleven-year-old Woodberson Seïde, a budding percussionist, walks hand in hand with his stepsister through the streets of the Haitian capital They navigate cautiously, avoiding gang territory on their way to an after-school music program Woodberson, like many others, often goes without proper meals and sleeps on the floor of a church since his family lost their home to gang violence “When I play drums, I feel proud,” he says with a glimmer
Music’s
power
Woodberson is part of a band called “Hope,” a testament to the resilience that music brings He began his musical journey two years ago, when he enrolled in an after-school program run by the U S non-profit Music Heals International Despite shooting in the background, these young musicians get together twice a week for two hours of music, forging a path towards a brighter future
Mickelson Pierre, who once learned to play the guitar through the program and now teaches it, emphasizes the transformative power of music “It’s something extraordinary,
and it leads to peace of mind,” he notes
In this program, students have the freedom to choose their instruments With 90 guitars, 62 keyboards, 24 bass guitars, and more, they explore various Haitian musical traditions, ranging from rara to compas to mizik rasin (roots music) Together, teachers and students decide on the genres they’ll explore, including compas, reggae, rock, Latino music, and African rhythms
As they immerse themselves in music, these budding musicians excel academically, and their parents breathe a sigh of relief, knowing they’re less likely to be drawn into the clutches of local gangs, says music program manager Emmanuel Piervil
Beyond Woodberson’s band, another group called “PMF” (Plezi Music au Feminin or “Enjoy Feminine Music”) has found solace and
hope in creating music Ester Ceus, a 17-yearold band member, shares, “When I am playing the piano, I release a vibe that I did not know I have in me It makes me feel relaxed ”
Music Heals International’s program, which began with just 60 children, has now grown to include 400 students across eight schools Many of whom have had the chance to perform at local concerts and even form their own bands
The importance of providing these youngsters with a moment of safety and peace despite the upheaval is emphasized by Ann Lee, CEO and co-founder of Community Organized Relief Effort, a California charity that sponsors the program According to Lee
“To be transported to a place where that is not the first thing that comes to mind when you ’ re away from your family and home, it’s a
gift ” Through the healing power of music, these tenacious Haitian students are creating a future filled with hope and possibilities
She highlights the necessity of schools as lifelines, providing a haven for children to escape the harsh reality that surrounds them
Dozens of primary school children in Jamaica were rushed to the hospital after being sold cannabis-infused candy by a vendor
According to the Minister of Education Fayval Williams, over 60 children at the Ocho Rios Primary School on the north coast were rushed to the hospital on Oct. 2 after consuming the sweets which caused them to vomit and hallucinate
Several of the students were placed on IV drips, according to the minister
Minister Williams posted a photo of the product called “Sour Belts,” which contains 8 THC, a psychoactive substance found in the
Cannabis sativa plant
In the United States, 8 THC products are not approved for safe use. The Food and Drug Administration said 8 THC products may cause
hallucinations, vomiting, tremors, confusion, and loss of consciousness, among other side effects FDA says these products should also be kept away from children
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) recently concluded an operation near Puerto Rico, resulting in the repatriation of 140 migrants to the Dominican Republic
This initiative unfolded last week after the detection of two vessels overcrowded with migrants in the vicinity of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
Reports are that upon identification of the vessels located 75 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, the crew aboard the Cutter Joseph Doyle swiftly took action
Responding promptly to the reports, they intercepted the vessels, thereby preventing the continuation of the migrants’ perilous journey
Within the group of intercepted migrants were 137 nationals from the Dominican Republic and three from
Haiti
The assemblage was promptly transported to the territorial waters of the Dominican Republic, situated south of Punta Cana, to ensure their safe return
On Friday, 104 migrants were handed over to a navy vessel within the Dominican Republic’s territorial boundaries However, due to unfavorable sea conditions, the complete transfer experienced delays
The Cutter Joseph Doyle made a subsequent trip the following day to transfer the remaining 36 individuals
Rise in irregular migration attempts
From October 1, 2022, to August 28, 2023, the USCG has noted an uptick in irregular migration attempts in the Mona Passage and surrounding waters near Puerto Rico
In total, during the specified
operation period, the USCG has thwarted 64 such attempts, resulting in the detention of 1,675 Dominicans, 264 Haitians, 15 Venezuelans, seven Kazakhs, one Albanian, and two Colombians
The USCG has consistently warned against the hazardous journey attempted by these migrants Captain José Díaz, the Coast Guard Sector San Juan Commander, emphasized the inherent risks involved in these irregular migration voyages, highlighting the potential loss of life due to overloaded vessels and treacherous sea conditions
Furthermore, Captain Díaz reiterated the unwavering commitment of the USCG and its partner agencies to diligently work towards preventing these unlawful voyages and the tragic loss of life at sea
The sour belts candy contains 100mg per piece, according to the packaging — a dose that is only recommended for experienced consumers who have a high tolerance for THC
“Over 60 primary school students had to be taken to hospital Parents please beware!!” Williams wrote “One little boy said he only had ONE sweetie That’s how potent this product is ”
The minister also said on X that she visited the hospital where the children were being treated, and that “doctors & nurses are doing all they can to ensure the students recover ”
Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness has commended five students of B B Coke High School in Junction, St Elizabeth, who helped to seek medical attention for their schoolmate who was severely injured on the school campus last week
On Thursday, Sept 28, eight-grader Jaheim Colman, 14, was beaten unconscious by a grade 11 student for allegedly stepping on his Clarks shoes
In a video that later went viral on social media, a group of five boys from the school were seen transporting an unconscious Colman via foot to the nearest medical facility It was reported that the students could not get public transportation to assit them at the time of the incident
The five boys, who met with Prime Minister Holness at Jamaica House on October 3, were hailed as “Ambassacontinues on A5 – Students honored
Grenada’s Ambassador to the United States, Tarlie Francis, recently presented his credentials to US President Joseph R. Biden, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Ambassador Francis communicated Grenada’s initiation of a substantial national development program
This transformative agenda aims to cement Grenada’s commitment to bolstering bilateral relations with the United States, building upon their longstanding, amicable, and synergistic relationship
The Grenadian envoy underscored Grenada’s strategic positioning as a steadfast ally in enhancing regional and international cooperation
He warmly welcomed the United States to join forces, fostering a partnership rooted in mutual benefits and shared objectives
Grenada expressed gratitude towards the United States for its continuous support and assistance
Both nations, currently navigating through pivotal challenges, recognize the imperative need for collaborative efforts and a unified approach to tackle these pressing issues effectively
Climate change, a daunting global challenge, is threatening environments, economies, and communities worldwide
Grenada, identified as a small island state, is particularly susceptible to climate change’s detrimental impacts, including escalating sea levels and increasingly severe hurricanes
With the United States at the forefront of the global economy, it holds a crucial responsibility in mitigating climate change effects and championing sustainable initiatives
Students honored fromA4
dors for Good ”
The youngsters Leon Barnes, Khari Green, Garry Bartley, Daejuan Gordon and Dejaun Powell — were each presented with a laptop and a certificate of official commendation “Jaheim’s survival today could be tied to the actions of these young men In acknowledging it, we also give tokens that they can have to [recall] this moment and to enlist them as Ambassadors for Good and Ambassadors of Positive
In this context, Grenada acknowledged and appreciated the support offered through the US-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis (PACC 2030) initiative
Ambassador Francis highlighted the commitment to deepening collaboration with the United States in combating transnational organized crime and halting illicit firearms trafficking in the Caribbean region
This pledge not only fortifies the safety and security of citizens in both nations but also opens avenues for cooperative endeavors in ensuring peace and security
President Biden assured ongoing engagement with Grenada in crucial areas such as education, entrepreneurship, climate resilience, and energy initiatives The president envisions a safer and more secure future for both nations and their citizens through steadfast cooperation and deepening ties between the two countries
Behaviour,” the Prime Minister added Minister of Education and Youth, Fayval Williams, who shared that she has visited the hospitalized student several times, commended the Ministry of Health and Wellness for the swift action taken and the quality of care being provided
“Up to Sunday afternoon, we were there [at the hospital] with his mother, uncle, his aunt, his brother and other relatives,” she said
“He indicated that he was feeling well and
B e r m u d a ’ s g o v e r n m e n t experienced a major cyberattack last Thursday, severely impacting its information systems However, the subsequent investigation into the incident, as stated by the government, has not revealed any signs of third parties accessing personal data
Premier David Burt addressed the public through a news conference, reassuring citizens that initial investigations show no signs of compromised data
The premier stated that a comprehensive forensic investigation is currently underway to pinpoint any possible infiltration The international team assigned to evaluate the cyber incident has not found any forensic evidence pointing toward data exfiltration so far
Burt further cautioned that the process is ongoing, and discoveries may still occur In the event of identifying a breach, he said that the government commits to acting swiftly, notifying affected individuals, and taking necessary action in the best interests of Bermuda’s citizens
that, most importantly, he had already forgiven the other student who caused him to be in the hospital,” Mrs Williams said Colman remains in the hospital as of October 4
In the meantime, a grade 11 student was arrested on reasonable suspicion of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm in relation to the incident He was later granted bail at
$300,000
The government encourages all citizens to remain vigilant against phishing attempts and advises regular password updates as protective measures against potential cybersecurity threats
The Bermuda Government has vowed to keep the public informed, promising to release accurate and timely information once they have a clearer understanding of the accessed data, if any
continues on A7 – Cyberattack
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It's been more than a year since Haiti's interim Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, called on the United Nations for urgent assistance He requested a specialized armed force to tackle Haiti's growing security crisis, and since then, the situation has only worsened
It seemed a multinational military intervention would have been inevitable after UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres backed Henry's demand. However, this did not materialize
Ruthless gangs now terrorize the country, committing thousands of murders, rapes, and kidnappings. They've also disrupted the distribution of essential supplies like fuel and food, causing widespread chaos and hunger
A few weeks ago, Guterres reiterated the call, urging the UN Security Council to approve such an intervention Kenya, Jamaica, The Bahamas, and Antigua have all declared their commitment to joining an international mission aimed at bringing peace and stability to Haiti According to a US Department of State official, 12 countries are now on board
Just this Monday, the UN Security Council made a significant decision They voted in favor of sending an international force, led by Kenya, to Haiti This mission is set to last for an initial period of one year, with a review scheduled after nine months While the deployment date is yet to be confirmed, it's anticipated to occur in the coming months
The US has pledged its support to the mission, offering logistical assistance that includes $100 million in funding and medical aid In addressing the crisis, UN SecretaryGeneral Guterres proposed two potential avenues for UN involvement: providing support to both the multinational force and Haiti's police, or bolstering an existing UN political mission in Haiti
As security conditions in Haiti continued to
deteriorate in the past year, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) took a proactive stance They formed the Eminent Persons Group (EPG), led by former prime ministers from Jamaica, St Lucia, and the Bahamas –Bruce Golding, Dr Kenny Anthony, and Perry Christie, respectively This group has been actively engaged in visits to Haiti to have discussions with Prime Minister Henry and other stakeholders, all in pursuit of viable solutions to the crisis Despite these ongoing dialogues, the challenges posed by the gangs persist
Guterres remains resolute in his belief that international intervention must employ force to eliminate the threat posed by these gangs In a written statement to members of the Security Council he stated:
“Haiti's current context is not conducive to peacekeeping Nothing short of the robust use of force, complemented by a suite of nonkinetic measures, by a capable specialized multinational police force enabled by military assets, coordinated with the national police, would be able to achieve these objectives ”
Although a large portion of the international community is in favor of intervening in Haiti to dismantle organized gangs, tey are understandably wary of armed involvement They believed it would back the Henry government, which is regarded by many Haitians as unconstitutional A group of Haitian gangsters recently marched into the nation's capital, Port-au-Prince, with the intention of ousting Henry
Haiti has witnessed numerous international interventions over the years, often spearheaded by the US While these temporarily restored some semblance of order, the longstanding issues of chaos and disunity resurfaced upon their departure The US appears to have learned this lesson, as
evidenced by their hesitation to join the upcoming multinational force
Still, it remains challenging to envision a scenario where a violent confrontation can be avoided, even if the primary objective of these interventions is peacekeeping It is undeniable that the heavily armed criminal gangs in Haiti will vehemently oppose the intervenors, setting the stage for a potentially rapid escalation of hostilities
Haiti's current situation is a clear conundrum CARICOM's EPG aims to foster a consensus among Haitian stakeholders to form an interim government, paving the way for future elections However, the feasibility of establishing a transitional government within the current environment appears quite slim Thus, gaining control of and demolishing these gangs must immediately become the top priority
Precious time was wasted in deciding to have international intervention into Haiti During this time, the gangs have only grown in strength and influence, becoming an even more menacing force, while brazenly challenging Haitian law enforcement. To revitalize a stable government and business sector, enabling ordinary citizens to resume their daily lives in peace, the restoration of security must be reestablished
This seems to require intervention by an external, international force. The big questions arising now, are:
How will the gangs react to this intervention? If, as expected, they react with force, how effective will the international coalition be in quelling this aggression? How will they manage to establish law and order with minimum bloodshed?
And, of course, how will they create a favorable environment for conducting elections that most Haitians will support?
roadways and announcing their intention to challenge the Henry-led administration with full force
Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021, Haiti has been in turmoil
This tragic event paved the way for gangs to grow in strength, fuelled by their involvement in illicit activities like drug trafficking and extortion
Prime Minister Ariel Henry, ruling on a provisional basis since the president’s demise, has been trying to establish security and stability with promises of future elections
According to reports, Cherizier has also voiced concerns regarding foreign interference, challenging the role of the international community in Haitian affairs and their support for Henry
Canada has imposed sanctions on Carl Braun, the vice president of Haiti’s largest bank, UNIBANK.
In a daring move, Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, once a police officer and now the recognized leader of one of Haiti’s most influential gangs, has spearheaded a call for the removal of Prime Minister Ariel Henry from power
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The government will also shared that engagement with the Privacy Commissioner and corresponding international authorities will be made as required, ensuring that all necessary notifications are dispatched and appropriate actions are taken
Privacy Commissioner Alexander White highlighted the importance of organizations informing individuals about security breaches, pointing to the obligation as not
With the backing of his formidable coalition of gangs, Cherizier is exerting significant influence over large sectors of Port-au-Prince
On Tuesday, the streets of the capital resonated with the sounds of drums and shouts as Cherizier and his armed entourage marched, showcasing their strength and determination
According to reports, they did not just march in protest; they took over, obstructing
just a legal requirement but a protective measure for citizens
White stated that these notifications serve as warnings to individuals, helping them act protectively, and as communication from organizations about the steps being taken to mitigate potential adverse effects
Under personal information protection laws, organizations in possession of private data on individuals must contact the Privacy
It is a critical time as Kenya considers leading a multinational force, backed by the United Nations, to aid Haiti’s police force in their battle against gang violence
Cherizier also said that residents of the densely populated Carrefour Feuilles neighborhood who had been forced to flee due to escalating gang-related confrontations might soon find a more peaceful abode to return to
Alongside Braun, sanctions also extend to Marc Antoine Acra, previously an adviser to the former Prime Minister Laurent Lamothe, and Jean-Marie Vorbe, serving as the CEO of a significant energy sector firm
The Canadian authorities, represented by Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, believe these three prominent Haitian figures are instigating violence and instability within Haiti
Commission if they have been the victim of a cyberattack They must then notify any individual who may be affected by the breach
However, those rules do not come into effect until January 2025
According to reports, Furthermore, there is a claim of their involvement in empowering illicit armed groups responsible for instilling fear, thereby undermining peace and security within the nation
In response to the sanctions and serious accusations, UNIBANK’s vice president has publicly denied participating in any form of criminal or gang-related activities
The White House has proclaimed October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as companies and organizations nationwide, as well as governments around the world, show support for victims and survivors of the disease, and promote mammograms and screenings which continue to save millions of lives annually
“Nearly 300,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and one in eight women in America will be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetimes,” the White House said Breast cancer is most often found in
women, but men can get the disease too About 1 out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the United States is found in a man
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 42,000 women and 500 men in the U S die each year from breast cancer Black women have a higher rate of death from the disease than all other women
“We have made enormous progress in our decades-long fight against cancer — discovering new prevention and earlydetection measures and exploring medicines and therapies to extend and save lives Despite these advancements, a breast cancer diagnosis is not only frightening but also a doorway into a confusing world of appointments, procedures, and expenses,” the White House said in its statement
President Joe Biden said he wants to cut the overall cancer death rate by at least half in the next 25 years
“I established the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) and secured $2 5 billion in bipartisan funding to drive scientific breakthroughs in prevention, detection, and treatment for cancer and other diseases,” he said
The president said he is also doubling his investment and making new alliances with community health centers that provide early detection and support services to underserved communities
The disease is also a frightening reality for women and men living in the Caribbean
According to research from the National Library of Medicine, in the Caribbean, there is a higher mortality rate compared with North
have higher incidence rates
Breast cancer is the foremost cause of cancer death affecting women globally and has now risen to the top, surpassing lung cancer, with 2 3 million new cases reported as of 2020 GLOBOCAN 2020 estimates reported approximately 685,000 deaths globally in 2020
In the Caribbean, breast cancer, with 15,000 new cases in 2020 and a five-year prevalence of 219 per 100,000, has been the second leading cancer after prostate cancer for the last two decades For the decade 20032013, it was the leading cause of cancer death among women across 21 Caribbean nations
Early detection of breast cancer is the best chance of survival as it increases the chances of successful treatment and often leads to less aggressive treatment options There are a few key methods for early detection:
Breast Self-Exams: Regular breast selfexams can help you become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts If you notice any changes, such as lumps, dimpling, or nipple discharge, consult a healthcare professional
Clinical Breast Exams: During routine check-ups, your doctor or healthcare provider may perform a clinical breast exam to check for any abnormalities
Mammograms: Mammography is the most common screening tool for the disease It involves X-ray images of the breast tissue For women at average risk, mammograms are recommended annually starting at age 40, but this can vary depending on individual risk factors
Breast MRI: In some cases, particularly for women with a higher risk, a breast MRI may be recommended in addition to mammography
Genetic Testing: Some individuals may have a higher genetic predisposition to breast cancer Genetic testing can identify specific mutations (e g , BRCA1 or BRCA2) that increase the risk If you have a family history of breast cancer, consider discussing genetic testing with a healthcare professional
The World Health Organization (WHO) has advocated for the prohibition of smoking and vaping within educational institutions
This proposal stems from the continual targeting of young individuals by the tobacco industry with nicotine and tobacco products
WHO has noted that these marketing strategies have significantly contributed to the rise in e-cigarette use among youth, with the initiation age of smoking dropping alarmingly to as early as 11 in some cases
WHO points out that educational institutions serve a crucial function in the lives of children, who spend approximately onethird of their waking hours within school premises
It notes that during this significant period, children are exposed to peer pressures, including the enticement to smoke or vape
In its sixth year, CanEx Jamaica has already etched its reputation as the premier platform for cannabis and psychedelicbased knowledge in the Caribbean region
Beyond maintaining its legacy, CanEx is poised to grow its offerings
From October 20-22, 2023, the Montego Bay Convention Centre will house not just the renowned cannabis and psychedelics conference but also CanEx’s debut Caribbean Wellness Expo
The CanEx conference never fails to draw international attention With participants ranging from the Caribbean, United States, Canada, and stretching to as far as Europe, Australia, and Africa, the event is a nexus for industry leaders, policy framers, researchers, and eminent business figures
It is a hub for those who are new to the world of cannabis and psychedelics and seasoned experts alike
CanEx ensures that attendees get ample opportunities to network and connect
Beyond the panels and discussions, the event houses an array of experiences designed to both educate and enthrall The new Caribbean Wellness Expo promises a rich tapestry of experiences from yoga sessions and herbal medicine showcases to immersive discussions about diet, spirituality, and mental health
Understanding the importance of the digital sphere in today’s world, CanEx introduces its Online Marketplace
This innovative e-commerce platform, exclusive for exhibitors, will remain live for six months post-event, amplifying the reach of products and services while ensuring greater return on investments for sponsors and exhibitors
Attendees can expect a comprehensive exploration into wellness in its myriad forms
Moreover, it is expected to also have organic food items and life coaching services for companies prioritizing ecofriendly tourism experiences The expo offers a 360-degree view of holistic health and well-being
WHO believes that schools thereby have the advantage and responsibility to substantially influence and mold students’ perspectives and behaviors regarding smoking and vaping
WHO reports that there has been an upswing in the development and accessibility of new tobacco and nicotine products designed to appeal to the youth
These products, including e-cigarettes, are not only available but also affordable due to the sale of single-use items
WHO believes that these often lack the requisite health warnings, further endangering young lives
Jamaican-American Cardiologist Dr Bryan Smith is one of 15 people selected as a White House Fellow for 2023-2024
The White House Fellows program is one of America’s most prestigious programs for leadership and public service. Selected individuals applicants regarded as exceptional community leaders — typically spend a year working as a full-time, paid Fellow to senior White House Staff, Cabinet Secretaries, and other topranking government officials
In announcing this year ’ s list of appointees, the White House said: “This year ’ s Fellows advanced through a highly competitive selection process, and they are a remarkably gifted, passionate, and accomplished group These Fellows bring experience from across the country and from a broad cross-section of professions, including from the private sector, local government, academia, non-profits, medicine, and the armed forces ”
Dr Smith, who is of Jamaican descent, follows in the footsteps of Dr Garth Walker, who was named a White House Fellow in 2021-2022, and former secretary of state, the late General Colin Powell
In a social media post, Smith said he was honored to be named a White House Fellow
“I am thrilled to be named a 2023-2024 White House Fellow So grateful to be among so many courageous, thoughtful, and compassionate leaders, and I am honored to be included with this inspiring group,” he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter
“I am thrilled to be named a 2023-2024 White House Fellow So grateful to be among so many courageous, thoughtful, and compassionate leaders, and I am honored to be included with this inspiring group,” he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter
Smith, who was born in the United States to Jamaican parents, has credited his Jamaican upbringing for his success
“I credit my Jamaica heritage for being the person I am,” he said in an interview with the Jamaica Gleaner
New York University (NYU) is set to host an engaging screening of the documentary, Reimagining Queen Nanny: Her Sword, A Seed
The film will dive into the life and legacy of the Jamaican national hero, Queen Nanny of the Maroons on Tuesday, October 10, from 6 to 8 p m
The event takes place at the King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center’s screening room, nestled at 53 Washington Square South
The screening will be followed by a captivating panel discussion will ensue, shedding more light on the acclaimed documentary
In attendance will be the film’s producer and NYU Professor Leo Douglas, and the talented narrator and co-writer of the documentary, Marcia Douglas
Leo Douglas not only imparts knowledge as a clinical associate professor at NYU Liberal Studies but also oversees the Caribbean Initiative in the Center for Caribbean and Latin American Studies (CLACS)
On the other hand, Marcia Douglas occupies the position of associate chair for creative writing at the University of Colorado Boulder
The screening is more than entertainment; it is an educational venture into the life of Queen Nanny of the Maroons
Born in present-day Ghana, Queen
Nanny was a pivotal figure among the Jamaican Maroons who valiantly fought for freedom from enslavement in the 18th-century colony of Jamaica Not only celebrated for her remarkable skills in insurgent warfare, but Queen Nanny also
made significant contributions as an early Afro-Caribbean eco-spiritual leader, a facet of her life that remains lesserknown yet intriguing
Furthermore, the documentary carefully chronicles her central role while delving into vital themes of racial identity, gender, sexuality, and religion
The documentary screening and subsequent discussion coincide with the observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day and the National Heroes’ Month of Jamaica
The event is free and open to the public
Registration is required at the NYU events calendar For more information or to request accessibility accommodations, please email lsdeansoffice@nyu edu or call 212 998 7120
We regret to inform you of the passing of a true visionary entrepreneur Lloyd R. Finlay went home to be with his Lord on Monday, September 25, 2023. He was a true pioneer in the Shipping Business for over 30 years. He started the company, Finlay's Ship to Jamaica in 1978 which became a household name in South Florida, shipping barrels and personal effects to Jamaica and eventually other Caribbean Islands. His professional achievements were a source of pride for him, but he never let success change his humble and down-to-earth demeanor. He inspired those around him to strive for greatness while remaining grounded and humble
Lloyd was a loving husband, devoted father, doting grandfather, great grandfather, and a man of faith
He leaves behind his wife, Marvel, children: Wendy, Glenn, and Derren and a host of other relatives and friends. May his soul rest in eternal peace
The state of Florida’s action to completely remove Black history lessons from school curricula has been met with much controversy
Following this decision, which was made in response to public outrage at the sanitized and distorted versions previously taught, black community churches in the state are now filling the void
Now, at the beginning of a new school year, the Rev. Gaston Smith, 57, was standing at the pulpit of at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Liberty City with a lesson on one of those chapters — he and other Black pastors across the state agreed their churches had no choice but to counter this decision and teach Black history themselves
“Whenever there has been any kind of movement, particularly in the African American community, it started in the house of God We cannot be apathetic, we cannot sit back, we cannot be non-vocal We have to stand our ground, because the Bible says we have to speak up for those that cannot speak up for themselves,” he shared
This motion began with his church, which teaches black history on Wednesday nights in a session called ‘Winning Wednesdays’, defying the state’s restrictions on schools At one such event, the television screens were displaying the words “BLACK HISTORY MATTERS,” an appropriate response for the setting also known as “The Ship,” a landmark in the largely Black neighborhood It had been present for many key incidents of the previous century, guiding devotees through the Jim Crow era, peak years of the KKK, the civil rights movement and, more recently, the racial
Panorama competition set to delight
justice protests
An outpouring of support was given in response to the church’s pledge Faith in Florida, a nonprofit alliance of religious organizations, created an 11-chapter toolkit to assist churches and make recommendations for books, articles, videos, and reports that examine the Black experience through what it refers to as “the lens of truth ” The toolkit’s numerous chapters provide material suitable for readers of all ages; one is titled “From Africa to America,” and another focuses on “Race, Racism, & Whiteness ”
Almost 200 religious leaders from the United Methodist, African Methodist Episcopal, and other religions rapidly signed up to use it Everyone promised to incorporate lessons on Black history into their sermons, Sunday school lessons, or Bible
Broward criminal justice leaders are urgently seeking alternatives to incarceration for the mentally ill, acknowledging the current system’s ineffectiveness
An incident involving a man with mental health problems climbing atop a Miramar fire truck, halting traffic and leading to his arrest, showcased the issue publicly “A lot of things could have gone catastrophically wrong and someone could have died,” warned Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony
study sessions to reach both parents and children
The involvement of the churches harkens back to the vital role that many played in the effort to end segregation and achieve voting rights “There’s always been that connection,” said Loren Lyons, a spokesperson for the coalition “And so, we pretty much said that because of what’s going on in the curriculum and what’s going on in Florida right now, it’s time that we took back that power ” Scan
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The festivities kick off with the Panorama Steel Band Competition on Friday, October 5th, where music lovers and steelpan enthusiasts will converge at Central Broward Park in Lauderhill to witness the rhythmic mastery of steel bands in action
J'ouvert: a splash of color and culture
Saturday, October 7th, marks the J'ouvert celebration, also held at Central Broward Park It's a lively event that adds a vibrant splash of color, culture and fun to the weekend's lineup
Mas band parade and concert: the grand finale
The grand climax of Miami Carnival weekend, its Mas Band Parade and Concert, will be held on Sunday, October 8th, at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds This promises to be a spectacular display of Caribbean culture, with a procession showcasing a dazzling array of vibrantly dressed participants embodying the spirit of the traditional West Indian Carnival vibes
Star-studded musical performances
Mas will host a star-studded lineup of performances, featuring soca luminaries like Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, Olatunji, Skinny Fabulous, Ricardo Drue, Claudette Peters, Iwer George, and many others
Fusion of culture and commerce
As in previous years, Miami Carnival 2023 combines legacy with a full-fledged celebration of "Caribbeanness " This spectacular weekend of rhythm, color, and culture is not to be missed Get ready for a musical journey through the heart of the Caribbean!
Florida Congresswoman Frederica S Wilson unveiled the expansion of her in-school mentoring program, 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, to the Bahamas on Sunday afternoon This announcement was made aboard a cruise ship anchored at Port Miami during festivities marking the Bahamas’ 50th independence anniversary
The celebratory event was attended by prominent figures including Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Public School Board Chairwoman, Mari Tere Rojas, and Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis
The mentoring initiative was established by Wilson in 1993 and pairs male high school students with male mentors, offering alternative paths to steer them towards success Wilson, with a background as a teacher, principal, and former Miami-Dade County School Board member, mentioned the program is already operative in multiple counties in Florida and in Detroit, Michigan
During the announcement, Wilson mentioned it was a perfect moment to disclose the program ’ s expansion amidst the Bahamas’ anniversary celebration The initiative is slated to launch in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, in September 2024, benefitting over 50 students initially
Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis, who had previously been a mentor in the 5000 Role Models program, suggested taking the project international as Wilson recommended Reflecting on his experiences, he expressed a strong desire to introduce the program in the Bahamas by quoting Frederick Douglass, renowned U S orator and abolitionist: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men ”
Sheriff Tony advocates for a change in police dealings with mental health cases, emphasizing the strain on officers He initiated a program last October where mental health professionals accompany police during mental crisis calls Out of 545 clients encountered, 537 accepted services and there were zero use-offorce incidents reported from September 2022 to September 2023
With around 42% of Broward County Jail’s approximately 3,500 inmates receiving mental health treatment, the cycle of arrest, medication, and release is not only ineffective but expensive for taxpayers, says Broward County Chief Judge Jack Tuter Each incarceration costs hundreds daily, excluding medication expenses
Both Tuter and Tony believe that funds should be allocated towards mental health treatment centers as a more effective solution “We have to find a better way to deal with this,” insisted Tuter They call for support from city and county commissioners controlling budgets, and public advocacy to prioritize mental health services
The biopic of Reggae legend Bob Marley, initially slated for a January 12, 2024, release date has been pushed back to February 2024
The Paramount Pictures film, titled Bob Marley: One Love, is now scheduled to hit theaters worldwide on February 14, 2024, according to Deadline
No reason was given for the rescheduled date, but it is likely that the recent Hollywood actors’ strike was one of the factors
The strike, which began in May of this year, brought a halt to American film and television production as well as promotional events such as movie premieres The strike ended on September 27
The diaspora is gearing up for the release of the film, which marks the first time that Bob
Marley’s life and career will be showcased in theaters around the world as a biopic
The film stars British actor Kingsley BenAdir as Bob Marley and Lashana Lynch as Rita Marley
The director of the movie is Reinaldo Marcus Green, who also directed King Richard, the award-winning film which follows the coaching journey of Richard Williams, the father of Venus and Serena Williams Green confirmed that the Marley biopic will cover the period 1976 to 1978, which will include the infamous attempted assassination of Marley and wife Rita, the making of his iconic Exodus album, and his eventual return to Jamaica for the historic One Love Peace Concert
Dancehall artiste Teejay has scored his first Billboard entry with his summer hit Drift.
D r i f t d e b u t e d a t n u m b e r 4 7 o n
R&B/Hip-Hop Air chart for October
Teejay joins Jamic born dancehall ar Byron Messia as the dancehall artistes w an entry on the chart The dancehall hit Talibans by Messia moves up continues on C3 – Teejay
rds
Broward County stands to earn between $40 million to $50 million from the T20 Cricket World Cup matches next year The International Cricket Committee (ICC) last week announced that the Broward County Stadium in Lauderhill will be one of the venues for the 2024 tournament, which will run from June 4 to June 30 next year
The stadium will be one of three U S venues where the ICC will host its men ’ s World Cup games The other two sites will be Eisenhower Park in New York and Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, Texas
This would mark the first time the T20 World Cup will be held in the United States, which will co-host the tournament alongside the Caribbean
At a ceremony unveiling the announcement on Monday, county officials said Broward stands to earn big from the tournament
“We’re seeing an international phenomenon
You got 2 4 to 5 billion fans, if not more, and they’re coming to the United States to watch cricket,” said Dan West, director of Broward Parks and Recreation
Cricket is the second most popular sport in the world, behind soccer
Broward County Commissioner Hazelle Rogers said the tournament will bring approximately $40 million to $50 million in economic value to the county
The United States will co-host the tournament along with countries in the Caribbean A total of seven Caribbean countries completes the list of host countries for the 55 games: Antigua and Barbuda; Barbados, Dominica, Guyana, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines; and Trinidad and Tobago
“We are delighted to announce the seven Caribbean venues that will host the biggest ICC Men’s T20 World Cup ever staged, with 20 teams competing for the trophy,” said ICC Chief
Executive Geoff Allardice
“This will be the third ICC senior men ’ s event hosted by the West Indies, and the matches will again give cricket fans the unique experience of enjoying cricket in the Caribbean I would like to thank Cricket West Indies and the seven host governments for their continued commitment and support of our sport ”
Cricket West Indies CEO Johnny Grave said he is grateful for the support of Caribbean governments in hosting the tournament
“We are grateful to the host Governments of the Caribbean for their overwhelming responses and enthusiasm for hosting what will be the most significant sporting event held in our region for a generation ”
Grave added: “We are confident that together we will deliver a world-class tournament showcasing the best this region has to offer with our unique culture and carnival atmosphere that will ensure there is a real celebration of the sport next June ”
Following the announcement of the venues for the World Cup, several Jamaican stakeholders
and government officials voiced their concerns and disappointment over Jamaica not being selected as one of the hosting countries
The Jamaican government later explained that opted against submitting an official bid to host games at next year ’ s men ’ s T20 cricket World Cup because it had to “ pay attention to the costand-benefit analysis” as a consequence of “limited resources” on the island
Minister of Sports Olivia “Babsy” Grange said “it wasn’t an easy decision” but after considering “different permutations”, the government felt that Jamaica’s cost of hosting World Cup matches would far exceed any potential benefits
“We had been considering the cost and source of funding of nearly half a billion dollars to host a few games in Jamaica,” Grange said in a statement “In our cost/benefit analysis with stakeholders, we also considered the economic, social, and development impact, including the potential tourism-related impact and attendant industry benefits using year-over-year economic modeling, reconciled against current tourism performance
to number 22 in its 15th week on the chart
In June, Teejay signed a publishing deal with Warner Chappell Publishing and then a record deal with Warner Music in the United States, which he credited to the success of Drift The song, released in March via Panda/DJ Mac/Top Braff Music, has received heavy airplay on Jamaican and overseas radios and went viral on Instagram and TikTok
Solid Agency, which manages Teejay, said the artiste’s Warner signing was “dancehall’s biggest deal for the year ” However, details of the deal were not provided in the release
“Me feel good A music we a duh from long time, and me hard work is finally paying off Dis a just the start,” Teejay said in a release by the agency
While sharing the news in a post on Instagram, the Uptop Boss captioned the photos: “Damn look what drift did ”
Co-chair and CEO of Warner Chappell Music, Guy Moot, said he is happy to see dancehall music and another Jamaican artiste in this context and on the global rise
“It’s the right artiste with the right music and the right time,” he said
Drift has gone viral on TikTok with over 20 million views on songstats and myriad dance challenges, the release said The song, which was written and recorded in one hour, has also reportedly blown up internationally, with the biggest numbers in London, New York, and Atlanta
