Caribbean National Weekly March 23, 2023

HAPPY Phagwah

Sheryl Lee Ralph speaks out on being sexually assaulted in Hollywood

ByMicaiahMorganCNWWriter

This week, Emmy Award-winning, Jamaican actress Sheryl Lee Ralph revealed that she was sexually assaulted by a well-known television judge The revelation was made during an interview with Angela Yee, a famous American media personality best known from her time on the popular, widely syndicated morning radio show, The Breakfast Club

Ralph was on Yee’s new show, Way Up, promoting her latest book, DIVA 2 0: 12 Life Lessons From Me For You, when she disclosed details about two situations where she was touched inappropriately and urged to keep quiet, while working as an actress in Hollywood

“There was one incident where it was

This festival was brought to places like Trinidad, Guyana, Suriname, and Jamaica by East Indians who first came to the Caribbean almost 200 years ago The celebration includes throwing colored water and powders on one another, with each color carrying a special meaning Red, for example, symbolizes love and fertility, and green symbolizes new beginnings

This year the festival was officially on March 8, but celebrations have been held throughout the month of March According to Indo-Caribbean community member Hazel Maragh, who is a prominent marketing and community consultant for GraceKennedy Remittance Services, “The IndoCaribbean community in South Florida actually had six Pagwah events that were put on by the different Hindu temples ”

Two of those South Florida-based Phagwah events included one on March 12 called Holi in the

WHAT’S IN

Park, which was held in Loxahatchee Grove by the Guyanese and Palm Beach Hindu communities Then, on March 18 in Cooper City, the Jamaican Indo-Caribbean community, with Rohan Tolan and Apache Promotions as hosts, held Phagwah 2023 “We celebrated Phagwah when we were young growing up in Jamaica,” Maragh explains “When we migrated to the United States we kept the tradition alive, and we ’ ve been doing it for 25 years It brings family and friends together, but we also collect donations to help take care of less fortunate persons in our community ” Maragh says that, due to the pandemic, the festival was forced to break for three years, but the community is elated to return to the joyous annual tradition “We were so happy to do it again,” she beams

like the third time something like this had happened to me, and I thought to myself, ‘what did I do to deserve that what made this man think that he could just come over and put his hands on my body,” Ralph said

She continued by saying that she confronted her abuser after running into him years later

“He sat down at the table across from me He did not remember any of this, but I had to let him know what he did that night He was right there, I had to confront him about it Do you want to know what was the shocking part?

Everybody around the table was appalled continues on B4 – Sheryl Lee Ralph

Church members, including two local policians (Yes, they are actual members of New Life Fellowship) had a fun me hanging with the dancers. From le to right, Sydney Ann Morgan, Dancer, State Representave Lisa Dunkley, Broward County Commissioner Hazelle P. Rogers, in red is Samantha Vacciana, Esq. followed by two addional dancers. – Luke Ballenne photo

DJ Nocturnal (le) chilling with friends at the recent HOLI Celebraon: A fesval of colors and Diversity which was held at Central Broward Park recently. – Contributed

This lucky lady received a gi box from GraceKennedy at the recently held HOLI Celebraon at Central Broward Park – Contributed

It was Bishop Rudducks (le) me to be recognized Presenng the award are (center) Reverend Cecil Wilson and Brianna Wilson

Credit: Luke Ballenne – Luke Ballenne photo

Joshua Grant, JFF U17 Goalie with Willis McGahee former NFL Running Back at the Lauderhill SAKE Awards honoring studentathletes. – Contributed

This dancer performed an Afro-Cuban Dance as part of Women's History Month Celebraon at the 7 Keys to Women's Empowerment conference at the Island SPACE Caribbean Museum in Broward Mall last Sunday. – DavidIPhoto

Guest Speaker, Dr. Patricia Morris addresses the audience at the 7 Keys to Women's Empowerment conference at the Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. – DavidIPhoto

Lady in pick, (le) was all smiles as she received the “Unsung Hero” Award from First Lady, Reverend Ann Marie Ruddock (center) and Bishop Clinton Ruddock (right) – Luke Ballenne photo

Photo

Pete A.

Kennedy

The new president of the Jamaican Men of Florida

Last month, Pete A. Kennedy was elected the new president of the Jamaican Men of Florida (JMOF)

JMOF is a South Florida-based men's organization whose mission is, “to empower, transform, and impact communities across generations inspired by the culture, identity, and the personal and professional excellence of men of Jamaican descent ” The organization was founded by Dr Allan Cunningham in 2020 Fittingly, Kennedy, who was born in Jamaica and lives in South Florida, is the President and CEO of EMYLL LLC, which stands for Educating Men & Youth How to Lead and Live The organization focuses on professional and personal development at the individual, group and organization levels As head of EMYLL, Kennedy’s role focuses on helping organizations thrive through leadership solutions He is known as the “Leadership Doctor ” His business focuses on the personal and professional development of individuals of all ages Prior to starting his own business, he gained experience in various industries including aviation and hospitality as a learning and development leader, and with Fortune 500

companies such as T-Mobile and Wells Fargo Bank

Kennedy earned a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems, and a master’s in educational leadership both from DeVry University He is a member of the John Maxwell Leadership Team, former secretary of JMOF, and membership manager for the Black Professional Networks in Miami For his role as a community servant, June 20th was designated by the Broward County Commission as Pete Kennedy Day

He recently authored and released the international bestseller, When a Man Loves: A Lifestyle & Leadership Most Men Will Never Experience The book ranks in the top six in four countries, including the USA, Canada,

Australia and Germany

Undoubtedly Kennedy, who shares two boys with his wife Jillian, brings a fresh perspective and what seems to be unlimited energy to the JMOF presidency The post, he says, is a manifestation of his love for Jamaica and the Jamaican diaspora

Additional members of the JMOF executive leadership team that were elected include: Kirk M Lawrence, Vice President; Cian Campbell, Executive Secretary; and Derrick Monroe serving his second term as Treasurer Elected to JMOF’s Board of Directors are David Muir, Jason Walker, Jermain Morgan, Easton Harrison, Pastor Powell, Dr Rupert Francis, Dr Allan Cunningham, and Honorable Peter Gracey

Members of the Jamaican Men of Florida supporting their female counterparts on Women’s History Month

CARIBBEAN As large mass of seaweed heads for Florida and the region Caribbean Tourism Threatened

By Micaiah Morgan CNW Writer

A massive collection of seaweed that is said to have grown in the Atlantic Ocean is making its way toward Florida’s shores and other Gulf of Mexico coastlines, potentially depositing deadly masses over beaches and significantly affecting the summer travel season

It is said that the seaweed, a variety called sargassum, has long generated substantial blooms in the Atlantic

According to Dr Brian Lapointe, a researcher at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, the blob is currently pushing west and will pass through the Caribbean and up into the Gulf of Mexico during the summer

He said that the seaweed is expected to become prevalent on beaches in Florida around July

He further mentioned that in Barbados, locals were clearing the beaches of seaweed using 1,600 dump trucks per day to make them

suitable for tourists and recreation on the beaches He also noted that this new phenomenon of the ocean is harming tourism in the Caribbean where it accumulates on beaches up to 5 or 6 feet deep

Lapointe said that the sargassum bloom this year started to emerge early and doubled in size between December and January, adding that it was greater in January than it has ever been since this new zone of sargassum development began in 2011

Barbadians told to be prepared for long drought and hot season

T h e D i r e c t o r o f t h e B a r b a d o s Meteorological Service (BMS), Sabu Best, is warning Barbadians that they should be prepared for a long drought period given that “there is not going to be any rainfall that is going to be coming in anytime soon ”

Best said that over the past couple of weeks, there has been a “significant reduction in rainfall across the island” and that the dry conditions, dry air, and abundance of sunshine “is actually leading to a lot of drying out of the top soils across the island, and a lot of areas are actually turning brown in fields and cane fields ”

“So, I know a lot of residents have noticed a lot of cane fires or grass fires that have been going on in the past few days,” he said, and that

some of those fires actually last for a “good few hours” and even days

“We expect that these kind of conditions are going to continue into March and into April with the dry conditions,” he said, warning the population that “there is not going to be any rainfall that is going to be coming in anytime soon

“And so I just want all Barbadians to be aware that you can expect to see the possibility of more fires in the days to come and just be ready and be prepared This is not an uncommon thing to actually happen during the dry season,” he said, adding that “the number of fires is probably unprecedented and also the duration of the fires

“So, our best advice to all the public out

there is just to be aware that these things are going to happen in the next few weeks, and the possibility, and just be ready For those who have respiratory challenges, just walk with the necessary medications and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself over the next few weeks,” Best added

He said the forecast for the future “is basically, like I said, March is going to be really dry

“We are going to see a slight increase in April, in terms of precipitation, and more so in May, especially going into the ending part of May, and we should have a lot more relief in the early part of June as well,” the BMS director said Best

Three CARICOM countries join Mexico in lawsuit against US gun manufacturers

The Bahamas government says it has joined a brief filed by Mexico in the United States Court of Appeal in the First Circuit, in support of a US$10 billion suit to hold US gun manufacturers liable for the harm caused by their products

The Bahamas has been joined by Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Human Security (SEHLAC), a network of nongovernment organizations and affiliated professionals specializing in international humanitarian law and seeking disarmament in the Latin American and the Caribbean region

The named defendants in the US$10 billion suit include seven major gun manufacturers and one gun wholesaler and distributor

“The guns used in the commission of violent crimes in The Bahamas are not

manufactured here, but instead, are manufactured abroad and illegally trafficked across our borders,” according to a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister announcing Nassau’s decision to join the legal battle

“A critical element of the government’s effort to reduce violent crime in our country is cracking down on the proliferation of firearms, with particular focus on strengthening borders and entry points and on interrupting networks of illegal smugglers

“Today, as part of this broader effort to reduce the impact of gun violence in The

Barbados and Kenya look to improve trade relations

Barbados and Kenya have acknowledged the need to form partnerships, build bridges, and identify challenges and opportunities for enhancing trade relations between the two countries

Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Business, Sandra Husbands, told the first Barbados Chamber

Husbands

of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (KNCCI) virtual Dialogue Series that as a result of increased political cooperation over the past two years, imports from Kenya had increased while Barbados’ exports to Kenya had decreased The virtual dialogue series is being held under the theme “Demystifying the Barbados and continues on A7 – Trade relations

Bahamas, our country joined an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief in the United States Court of Appeal in the First Circuit, in support of Mexico, who is appealing their case to hold US gun manufacturers liable for the harm caused by their products,” the statement added

Earlier this month, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, addressing a political meeting of his ruling People’s National Movement (PNM), said that Mexico despite having lost an initial approach to US authorities “intends to continue fighting “Mexico has approached CARICOM asking

us as independent sovereign states with the same problem to join the fight to test it in the courts of America to hold the manufacturers and distributors of handguns and assault weapons into our country, to hold them responsible for the mayhem that they have unleashed on our societies,” Rowley said, adding “ we have to join that fight” Rowley said America had passed laws to prevent gun owners from being sued, adding those who are making those guns knowing where they are going and what they could do, have been insulated from lawsuits

Grenada’s NIS seeking to raise millions, selling properties

Grenada’s National Insurance Scheme (NIS) says it expects to earn an estimated EC$18 8 million (One EC dollar=US$0 37 cents) from the sale of eight buildings 11 years after it had purchased several government properties

The then government had sold the properties because of its inability to meet monthly recurring expenditures such as salaries

The most expensive property for sale is the structure that once housed the St James Hotel with an asking price of six million dollars

Another building up for sale is the Drill Yard that formerly housed several government ministries before the construction of the Ministerial Complex In January, a portion of the building situated near the Sendall Tunnel collapsed NIS has a price tag of EC$4 5 million for the building NIS is also selling a building that housed Radio Grenada as well as the former Parliamentary Election Office The two buildings are priced at EC$400,000 and EC$950,000 respectively

Andrés Manuel López Obrador, President of Mexico Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister, Keith Rowley

Don't be left without health insurance coverage

Ironically, devastating as it was to the health

and general welfare of the community, COVID-19 was indirectly beneficial to Floridians who, because of their income levels, were ineligible to receive Medicaid benefits states offer to assist low -income residents

Dr.

Andrew Karim akarim@cnweeklynews.com

Prior to March 2022, when cases of COVID-19 began to impact Florida and the rest of the US, over 400,000 Floridians had no access to health insurance These unfortunate people did not earn enough to be eligible for insurance coverage available under the Affordable Care Act, Obamacare, but too much to qualify for Medicaid benefits Although the ACA offered states significant subsidies to expand Medicaid, Florida governors since 2011 has stubbornly refused to expand Medicaid

Currently, Florida is one of only 12 states not to expand Medicaid to its deserving residents

Don Anthony sports@cnweeklynews.com

Hugh Ferguson advertising@cnweeklynews.com hferguson@cnweeklynews.com

Tel: 954-739-6618

Fax: 954-765-6199

With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, under order from the Federal government, states stopped disenrolling people who weren't normally eligible for Medicaid, or who had not updated information re their eligibility This meant thousands of low-income families and individuals, including pregnant women and children has had access to healthcare provided by private practitioners and public health facilities for the past three years But this benefit is likely to end soon

In April 2023, states, including Florida, are expected to resume regular eligibility redeterminations and again disenroll those who prove to no longer be eligible for Medicaid

Also, additional federal Medicaid funding Florida have been receiving during the pandemic will be phased out over the course of 2023

According to Healthinsurance org Medicaid expansion in Florida grew from 3 8 million in March 2020, the start of the pandemic, to 5 5 million in November 2022

Although a process of verify eligibility for all these beneficiaries will be conducted over the next 12 months, it's estimated some 1,378,000 residents could be made ineligible for Medicaid since Florida has still not approved Medicaid Expansion

Florida Medicaid is currently undergoing the process of reaching out to people registered for Medicaid to update their eligibility information, and also advise them of the pending end of the special coverage offered during the pandemic

Medicaid beneficiaries are urged to respond to requests to update this information, so they do not suddenly find themselves without coverage

It does seem certain well over 400,000 Floridians will find themselves ineligible for any form of health insurance coverage when the Medicaid disenrollment process ends next year

This is a situation that should not be tolerated in Florida

Although the Republicanheavy Florida Legislature has not budged on its opposition to Medicaid Expansion, the community must express its discontent at this situation, and pressure their local Florida House Representatives and Senators, Democrats included, to do something practical to offer insurance coverage to those who are ineligible for Medicaid

The community is growing increasingly weary of politicians who make grand promises during their campaigns for elected office, but forget these promises when they get to their respective offices

If Medicaid benefits could be extended to low-income residents for the past three years, without any detrimental effect to Florida, why can't the extended benefit not continue? It just makes no logical sense

Meanwhile, they are options available to people who may not be eligible for Medicaid,

should they be able to avail themselves of these options

One option is to revert to seeking assistance under Obamacare The federal government through its portal Healthcare gov is offering an extended enrollment opportunity from March 31,2023 to July 31, 2024 for people who lose Medicaid coverage during that period

Also, there may be some Medicaid recipients who having reached age 65 and over are now eligible to receive Medicare, the federal insurance program for American citizens age 65 and over Medicaid beneficiaries now eligible for Medicare will have a special enrollment window during which they can sign up for Medicare without a late enrollment penalty This window is open for six months after a beneficiary's Medicaid ends

It has also been borne out that several Medicare recipients are missing out on extra benefits because they either are unaware, or ignorant, of the Medicare Advantage program offered by several private health insurance companies in Florida Through Medicare Advantage patients receive significant additional coverage for medical co-payment fees, optician and dental care, and are able to afford visits to a variety of healthcare specialists, and undergo critical medical tests and procedures

South Floridians are urged to act responsibly in ensuring they and their family members have access to healthcare insurance Those who find themselves ineligible, should take immediate steps to explore possible options, including seeking assistance from members of the community and political representatives to ensure they have access to affordable healthcare when needed

Fresh gang violence in Haiti leaves 187 dead in 11 days

New clashes between gangs in Haiti’s capital and beyond have killed at least 187 people in less than two weeks and injured more than 150 others, the U N said Tuesday.

The fresh wave of violence recorded between Feb 27 and March 9 in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and in the central region of Artibonite also has displaced hundreds of people and forced farmers to abandon fields as starvation worsens, officials said

“The situation is all the more alarming for children, who are often subjected to all forms of armed violence, including forced recruitment and sexual violence,” the U N in Haiti said

The surge of violence in central Haiti has been largely blamed on a gang called “Baz Gran Grif,” which roughly translates to “Big Claw Crew ”

In addition, nearly 260 kidnappings have been reported since the start of the year, with people abducted from their homes or public

places, officials said Gangs have grown more powerful since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, and already control an estimated 60% of Port-au-Prince They also have been clashing in the central towns of Petite Riviere de l’Artibonite, Verrettes, Estere and Liancourt

Trade relations

fromA5

Kenya Markets,” with Husbands highlighting the need for Barbados to implement new initiatives to ramp up its export potential

“It is to our benefit, therefore, that we must continue to focus on deepening our people-to-people interactions, as it is the foundation for generating all economic activity More people-to-people interaction creates greater receptivity to the goods and products which they offer,” Husbands said, noting that people-to-people interaction is key to achieving and increasing trade between the two countries

“And so part of our strategy for supporting the Barbadian enterprises that wish to engage the African continent and wish to engage Kenya is for us to be pursuing and building through our mission ”

Prime Minister Ariel Henry last week signaled that he is seeking to mobilize Haiti’s military to help an under-resourced and understaffed police department fight the unrelenting gang violence, which has forced an increasing number of schools and businesses to shutter

She said that through the Embassy in Kenya, Barbados is seeking to establish linkages between communities, clubs, and associations In addition, the island is seeking to have exchanges between schools, universities, cultural groups, and practitioners, as well as media entities

UN Rights Chief calls for a specialized force to tackle gang violence

A specialized force must be deployed to urgently help Haitian authorities tackle a tsunami of gang violence, as rapes, sniper killings, and kidnappings become daily threats, the spokesperson for the UN rights chief said on Tuesday

“We are gravely concerned that extreme violence continues to spiral out of control in Haiti,” said Marta Hurtado, spokesperson for UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Volker Turk

UN officials said that in the first two weeks

of March alone, clashes among gangs left at least 208 dead, 164 injured, and 101 kidnapped

Mirroring those grave concerns, UN Haiti issued a statement early Tuesday, strongly condemning the “extreme violence perpetrated by armed gangs ” , and expressing its support for the Haitian people

Hurtado quoted the High Commissioner as saying that as ever more violent and frequent clashes between rival gangs in the capital city of Port-au-Prince and other regions are killing and harming hundreds and displacing thousands,

action is needed now

“We call on the international community to urgently consider the deployment of a timebound specialized support force under conditions that conform to international human rights laws and norms, with a comprehensive and precise action plan ”

The High Commissioner also urged Haitian authorities to address the grave situation

“People must be able to return to their homes under safe and dignified conditions,” she said, calling on authorities to strengthen

National Police capacities and undertake profound judicial reform, as well as involving more support from the international community

“To break the cycle of violence, corruption, and impunity, all those responsible, including those providing support and finance to the gangs, must be prosecuted and tried according to the rule of law The rights to truth, justice, and reparations of all victims must be fulfilled ”

The High Commissioner’s urgent call for action echoes pleas for increased assistance

continues on B3 – Specialized force

1

Beryllium assessing operations across Jamaica after another attack on guards

Jamaica’s Government to widen plastic ban

The Jamaica government says it will be taking steps during this financial year to widen its ban on single-use plastic as it seeks to further protect the country’s natural environment from degradation and destruction

Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Matthew Samuda, told the 10th regional session of the Youth Environment Advocacy Program (YEAP) on ‘Marine Pollution: The Role of Plastics,” that microbeads and plastic lunch boxes will be targeted under impending changes to the ban on single-use plastic

Beryllium Limited has advised that there may be delays in the delivery of its services as it assesses its operations across Jamaica in the aftermath of the attack on its crew on Sunday

Reports are that one of the company ’ s vehicles and crew was targeted at Scotiabank in Portmore, St Catherine Beryllium Limited confirmed the that driver and three crew members were shot and injured in a press release issued on Sunday and stated that it is cooperating with police in their investigations

“We are cooperating with the police in their investigations Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with the crew and their family at this time,” the statement said

The two motorcars that were reportedly used by the gunmen in the attack were recovered by the police

They were found abandoned in the Lakes Pen area of the parish Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media, showing the shootout between members of the security team and the gunmen

The incident follows the attack on another Beryllium team which left a security guard dead and two others injured at the Portmore Pines plaza in February The gunmen escaped with $10 million in cash

Jamaica’s minimum wage moves to $13,000 weekly

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced that the national minimum wage will be increased from $9,000 to $13,000 per 40-hour work week effective June 1 This is a 44 percent increase and is said to be the largest in 20 years

Holness made the announcement during the Budget Debate at Gordon House on Thursday He stated that the government was strategic in not imposing new taxes in the trillion-dollar budget to avoid eroding Jamaicans’ income

“We recognized that the contribution of minimum wage earners such as household workers, artisans, laborers, store clerks, and security personnel is vital to the success of our manufacturers, hotel professionals, lawyers, doctors, and teachers in meeting our national productivity and service targets,” he said

He shared that the minimum wage for industrial security guards will be increased from $10,500 per week to $14,000, which will also take effect on June

He explained that the differential between the national minimum wage and the minimum wage payable to security guards has narrowed as security guards are now classified as workers

Holness said that the differential will be removed the next time an increase in the national minimum wage is announced

The Prime Minister further said that since taking office in 2016, the Jamaica Labour Party government has raised the minimum wage from $6,200 to $13,000, a 110 percent increase in seven years

He pointed out that the cumulative inflation over the period was less than 50 percent “and even in US dollars it represents a 66 percent increase in the minimum wage ”

Holness stated that his government has done more than any previous administration to bring prosperity to Jamaicans

“The principal intent of the ban is to p r e v e n t n o n - r e c y c l a b l e , n o nbiodegradable carcinogenic waste from entering our garbage,” Samuda said in the address read out by the Ministry’s Chief

He said the government will start in the new financial year to look at microbeads, which are microplastics in personal-care products, and different types of lunch boxes which are made of plastic

The government has already imposed

a ban on the importation, manufacture, and distribution of single-use plastic bags, straws, and polystyrene, which took effect on January 1, 2019, a move Samuda said has been bearing fruit

He noted also that the authorities will seek to engage with the population “ on this important national issue” as the push continues to encourage more Jamaicans to abide by the principles of environment preservation and protection

Since the establishment of YEAP, an estimated 1,400 students across the island have been sensitized about the importance of a healthy environment to the sustainable development of the country

Technical Director, Gillian Guthrie

One of Beryllium’s units that cam under gunre during the armed robbery at a Scotiabank in Portmore, Jamaica

Samuda

TheFloridaKeys

3 reasons why Caribbean Americans love it

Almost as many Caribbean people are living outside of the Caribbean as within it. Some leave for job opportunities, and others for better healthcare or to reunite with family. Still, almost all Caribbean people love aspects of their home countries – the climate, the beaches, the food. So, it’s no surprise that the Florida Keys is one of the busiest destinations for Caribbean people looking to get away

Many Caribbean natives joke that Florida is an honorary member of the Caribbean, as the state is the most populated with Caribbean immigrants. The Florida Keys represents in a few ways the perfect intersection of first-world luxuries with tropical familiarities

Most Caribbean people are not built for cold weather. Caribbean people are from a region that exists in perpetual summer and there are two seasons – wet and dry. The Florida Keys is an island paradise in the United States. The weather is always warm with not a snow cloud in sight, making it the perfect getaway during winter

months if the Caribbean is out of reach. This perfect climate also means year-round cruises, lounging, and of course beaches

The beaches in the Florida Keys give their Caribbean counterparts a run for their money. The Keys boast soft white sand bordering crystal clear, sapphire water that’s always the perfect temperature There are no seasonal beaches; the water is always fine. Its Instagram-ready hotspots will have everyone guessing whether you ’re in the Caribbean or not

As mentioned before, the Florida Keys is at a unique intersection of Caribbean and American cultures. The already robust Caribbean community present means you’ll have your pick at Caribbean events, restaurants that fuse Caribbean and American cuisines, and if you time it right, concerts and music festivals celebrating everything from reggae to reggaeton

Take a look at these Caribbean restaurants to visit in Atlanta

Caribbean immigrants can be found just about everywhere Whether first or secondgeneration, the people of the Caribbean have dispersed around the globe bringing bits of their culture with them One particular, but less talked about, a hotbed of Caribbean culture is the city of Atlanta Some of the best music, art, and of course food can be found throughout A-Town

Picking the best three Caribbean restaurants or even three must-try hole-inthe-walls in Atlanta is difficult It’s hard to narrow it down to just three! Regardless, these three restaurants are recognized within their communities for their rich histories and most importantly, delicious food

Chef Rob’s Caribbean Café

Chef Rob Gayle’s authentic Caribbean cafe lies in the heart of Sandy Springs, Georgia It’s a family operation He co-owns the restaurant with his wife and employs both his mother and his son Chef Rob’s Caribbean Cafe is an institution in the area, going strong for 16 years and counting Rob Gayle takes his CIA (Culinary Institute of America) training and uses it to elevate the classic Jamaican cuisine he grew up eating

Menu options range from traditional to fusion, with everything from classic braised oxtail and curried goat with roti, to jerk chicken egg rolls and Jamaican quesadillas

More than a restaurant, Chef Rob’s Caribbean Cafe includes a food truck determined to bring its unique menu to people on the other side of the city There’s also an upscale lounge that caters to an adult clientele and regularly hosts karaoke and comedy nights

Havana Sandwich Shop

On February 9, 1976, the Benedit family opened the original Cuban eatery in Atlanta

Havana Sandwich Shop continues on B4 – ATL Restaurants

Going to ATL? DRIVER NEEDED

Parrot Key Caribbean Grill

Chef Rob’s Caribbean Cafe

Celebrating its 10th anniversary & Third World Band, with special guest Julian Marley

Embrace Music Foundation will deliver a festive blend of sights and sounds that have awed and delighted diverse audiences worldwide Two concerts, April 1 and 2 at the Miramar Cultural Center, will salute the past while bringing it to life with Rhythms of Africa (ROA)– Music

Around the World 2023 Experience the power of music & percussion with the Pan African/Caribbean rhythms of Reggae, Blues, Soca, Samba, Ska, Dance Hall, Calypso,

music and additional on-stage excitement to captivate audiences and bring them to their feet

"People who watch these kids during the workshops see their incredible development, so that in no time at all when the performance comes around, their whole lives have changed for the better," Willie Stewart notes "Music is the soul of humanity, the universal language, timeless and eternal -- shouldn't it be central to our children's lives? It's all

Latin, New Orleans Jazz, Funk, R&B, Pop, Afro-Beats, and more "Reggae Ambassador" and Grammy-Award nominee Willie Stewart, former lead percussionist and co-director of the international group Third World, will demonstrate the transformative power of music, showcasing the talents of 25 musical novices from Everglades High School who have trained rigorously over the past couple of months Their preparation includes sessions with professional musicians, singers, and dancers to provide context to the

about the music It's all about the children "

ROA 2023 will also feature a special guest appearance by Julian Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley, a living link to the history and evolution of contemporary African/Caribbean rhythms

Rhythms of Africa is a musical journey that describes the movement of ancient rhythms from the souls of vibrant cultures carried by hand and heart from Africa to the Caribbean, South America, and the New World It is the rhythms of the Diaspora,

seasoned by time, cultivated, and rooted by generations of pilgrims

Hosted by Mayor Wayne Messam, the return to Miramar

Cultural Center pays tribute to Rhythms of Africa's inaugural concert at the then-new venue ten years ago It also celebrates Third World's 50th Anniversary, highlight-

ing their journey from 1976 to 1997, "Love Will Always Be There Concert," taken from the song Willie Stewart co-wrote for Third World. A cameo guest artist will accompany professional artists, dancers, and musicians while showcasing the newfound musical percussion talent of Everglades High School

The program is a presentation of Embrace Music Foundation, in partnership with the City of Miramar, a Broward-based nonprofit corporation with a mission to restore, preserve, and fortify the impact of music -- education, appreciation, and performance -- in schools and communities and to amplify its role in the development of children and families

Julian Marley

Messam

Willie Stewart

Third World Band

ATL Restaurants from B1

on Buford Highway This family-run establishment not only provides a connection to Cuban culture but is a trunk within their family tree All of the dishes served at the restaurant were designed by the founder Eddie Benedit Sr, who migrated to the United States in 1962

“Most of the recipes are foods he grew up with living in Cuba,” Mrs Benedit explained in an interview “That man could cook anything he put his hands on and he never cooked by the book ” This hasn’t stopped the menu from becoming a crowd favorite The most popular dish is, of course, the Cuban sandwich, but the spot is known for its empanadas, maduros, tostones, and yucca fritas

Today the restaurant employs around 10 people, many of whom have been long-term employees for over 15 years, maintaining the restaurant’s familial vibe

Royal Caribbean Bakery

While not technically a restaurant, the Royal Caribbean Bakery (RBC) serves delicious food by the basket An extension of the original bakery founded in 1987 by Vincent and Jeanette HoSang in the Bronx, New York, this Atlanta branch brings the same quality baked goods to A-Town

FAU receives $2.8M gift for Conch farm in Grand Bahama

Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute has received $2 8 million to establish a queen conch hatchery in Grand Bahama

This support expands FAU Harbor Branch’s extensive aquaculture and food security program focused on replenishing queen conch populations throughout the Caribbean It also enables the development of a conceptual master plan for a 25-acre innovation hub on Grand Bahama for researchers working to solve issues of island sustainability

The project is built on a network of collaborations to secure local support and participation FAU Harbor Branch will partner with the Bahamian community of Grand Bahama on a pilot-scale queen conch aquaculture farm led by Megan Davis, Ph D , a research professor, FAU Harbor Branch Aquaculture and Stock Enhancement, and the world’s leading expert on queen conch aquaculture with 40 years of research in the field

Bahamas National Trust

At the bakery, soft, freshly baked hard dough bread, delectably spiced buns, fluffy coco bread, chewy bulla cakes, and many more Caribbean classics are produced daily It also serves as a gateway to classic Jamaican kitchens It’s an official distributor of Delights Jamaican-style beef, chicken, and vegetable patties

The RCB was born out of necessity. Fresh immigrants from Jamaica, the HoSang’s missed the flavors of home and decided they had to fix that All of their signature recipes have been tested and approved by discerning Jamaican customers, ensuring you ’ re always on the end of a top-of-the-line baked experience

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that I would stand up for myself They were appalled They told me I should be ashamed of myself, and why would I even bring that up,” she shared

Ralph then shared an instance where she had been sexually assaulted by a well-known TV judge, but made it clear that it was not Judge Mathis

Prized for its iconic spiral shell and meat, the species is considered the cornerstone of the Bahamian culture and economy Through partnerships, the project leads envision developing new economic and environmental opportunities for the community, along with helping to replenish queen conch populations

“We’re extremely grateful to Builders Initiative for their generous support of our queen conch restoration efforts,” said FAU President Stacy Volnick “FAU Harbor Branch’s work in aquaculture is helping to meet the growing global demand for food, thanks to partners like Builders Initiative who share our belief in sustainable solutions to environmental challenges ”

This summer, the project will begin with a mobile queen conch lab where

Specialized Force fromA7

made on Saturday by a group of senior UN officials last week following a fact-finding mission to Haiti

Hurtado said that most victims were killed or injured by snipers who were reportedly randomly shooting at people in their homes or on the streets Sexual violence is also used by gangs against women and girls to terrorize, subjugate, and punish the population

Gang members frequently use sexual violence against abducted girls to pressure families to pay a ransom

Students and teachers have been hit by stray bullets during gang confrontations and the kidnapping of parents and students in the vicinity of schools has surged, forcing many of them to close Without the protective environment of schools, many children have been forcibly recruited by armed gangs, the High Commissioner’s spokesperson said, adding “people are fleeing to escape the daily danger,” she said

scientists, with assistance from Bahamian staff and interns, will grow queen conch from their egg stage to juveniles It will be located at Coral Vita, a commercial coral farm working to restore coral reefs, sharing resources with FAU Harbor Branch

Blue Action Lab is a key strategic partner, assisting with permits, negotiations, and other collaborator relationships Other partners include the Bahamas National Trust, the University of The Bahamas, the Perry Institute of Marine Science, and The Nature Conservancy, which will provide expertise on habitat mapping for conch breeding sites in seagrass beds

“Having a hatchery operating in the community with full participation from the community will be a great way to not only increase knowledge and awareness of the life cycle of the conch, but it will also allow the opportunity to build relationships, technical skills, and solutions together,” said Catherine Booker, program coordinator with the

The project also will provide research internships for students at the University of The Bahamas and ecotourism opportunities

Similar opportunities would come about through the 25-acre innovation hub Known as Conservation Cove, it will be located on 25 acres on Grand Bahama

It is envisioned to include a tropical aquaculture park, an aquarium, a research and education hub, co-working spaces, and a hospitality center FAU’s MetroLAB Design Collaborative, comprising FAU’s School of Architecture and Harbor Branch, will work with Blue Action Lab on the master plan

The Grand Bahama queen conch hatchery is the fifth FAU partnership project to restore the queen conch throughout the Caribbean FAU Harbor Branch has been working on restoration efforts since 2016 and has established other queen conch farms in Puerto Rico, Curacao, and Great Exuma, Bahamas

LEGAL NOTICE

TO: The 1st Defendant GR. Group International LLC Suite 210C, 1400 NE Miami Gardens Drive North Miami Beach Florida 33179, U S A

She said she contacted the mayor of New Orleans at the time, which was Marc Morial While Morial was willing to jump in and help, she said that the network execs told her to remain silent about the incident

“Do you know that they did not want any bad press around their show and did not care what just happened to me That’s the kind of stuff that happens That’s what makes it hard for women to speak up about these things,” Ralph added

Ralph then implored other women in Hollywood who would have gone through similar situations to speak out and tell the truth

“Do not carry the burden of that pain Especially if it’s something you feel you cannot work through,” Sheryl Lee Ralph said

As of mid-March, at least 160,000 people have been displaced and are in a precarious situation, staying with friends or relatives and having to share meagre resources A quarter of those displaced live in makeshift settlements, with very limited access to basic services such as drinking water and sanitation

Chronic instability and gang violence have contributed to surging prices and food insecurity Half of the population does not have enough to eat, and in some areas, such as Cité Soleil, hunger has reached particularly alarming levels, she said

Hurtado recalled that during his visit to Haiti in February, Türk issued “ a wakeup call” to the international community that has yet to be acted upon

She said given the grave situation, it is important that “his recommendations are more urgent than ever ”

Notice is hereby given to you that a Fixed Date Claim Form dated December 21. 2022, an Amended Fixed Date Claim Form dated February 6, 2023 and the Affidavit of Colett Grandison sworn to on December 30, 2022 were filed by Samuda & Johnson, Attorneys-atLaw of 15 Trinidad Terrace, Kingston 5, Jamaica, W I. on behalf of Andropov Jamaica Limited in the Supreme Court of Judicature of Jamaica, King Street, Kingston, Jamaica, W I in Claim No. SU 2023 CD 00001, Andropov Jamaica Limited v GR. Group International LLC , The Registrar of Titles and The Attorney General For Jamaica

By the Order of the Honourable Mrs. Justice C. Brown Beckford made in the Supreme Court of Judicature of Jamaica on February 8, 2023 Andropov Jamaica Limited is permitted to serve the Fixed Date Claim Form, Amended Fixed Date Claim Form, Affidavit of Colett Grandison all statement of case, prescribed notes and form documents and all other court documents in these proceedings on GR Group International LLC by Publishing Legal Notices of these proceedings for the attention of GR Group International LLC in the National Weekly Newspaper, Florida

If you GR. Group International LLC intend to dispute the claim being advanced in the Fixed Date Claim Form and Amended Fixed Date Claim Form you are required to complete and return an Acknowledgment of Service stating this intention to the Registry of the Supreme Court of Judicature of Jamaica within twenty-eight (28) days of the Publication of the Legal Notice of these proceedings in the National Weekly Newspaper, Florida. If you GR Group International LLC wish to dispute the claim and rely on written evidence in response, you GR Group International LLC are required to file and serve an affidavit containing such evidence within fifty-six (56) days after service of these proceedings by Publication of the Legal Notice of these proceedings in the National Weekly Newspaper, Florida

FILED by MESSRS. SAMUDA & JOHNSON of 15 Trinidad Terrace, Kingston 5, whose telephone numbers are (876) 929-4727, (876) 754-5637-8 facsimile (876) 929-7002, e-mail thefirm@samuda-johnson com, Attorneys-atLaw for and on behalf of the CLAIMANT herein

(Left to right, top row) Joe Thomas; Nako Brice; Shervin Tate; Megan Davis; Ph D , Randy Reckley; and Leroy Glinton. (Left to right, bottom row): Gail Woon, EARTHCARE; Cristina Zenato; Tereha Davis; and Jewel Beneby, Bahamas National Trust in Grand Bahama. (Photo credit: Jewel Beneby/ FAU)

Romain Virgo makes soulful return with “Driver”

Jamaican recording artiste

Romain Virgo announces his latest single, “Driver,” arriving on 24 March 2023. The VP Records release marks the singer’s followup to 2021’s “Good Woman.”

The reggae/dancehall powerhouse

Donovan “Don Corleon” Bennett (Sean Paul, Rihanna, Sizzla) co-wrote and produced “Driver,” adding fresh gloss and depth to Romain’s modern lovers rock sound

As Romain bears his soul across the track, he expands his vocal range, packing tender romance and sensual flair into smooth melodies

Describing the message behind the song, Romain says, “On “Driver,” I’m captivated by everything about her I’m reassuring her that, if given a chance, I’ll prove to her that I want to be in it for the long run ”

The video for “Driver,” directed by Sameel “SAMO” Johnson, features Romain

courting his love interest across the idylls of eastern Jamaica; he embraces her under palm trees, serenades her in caves and lagoons, and escorts her from vista to vista in a 1977 MGB GT convertible

Romain Virgo spent much of last year delighting live audiences After a few shows in Jamaica, he kicked off a five-week summer tour that began alongside Christopher Martin in New York for Jerk

Festival and Belgium for Reggae Geel

Romain then wrapped up the following seventeen dates in the U S as the solo headliner

He’s expected to announce dates in the Caribbean and the U S in the coming weeks

“Driver” will be available on all streaming platforms via VP Records

Reggae star Romain Virgo is one of the genre ’ s foremost crooners He has released three albums to date; ‘Romain Virgo’ (2010), ‘The System’ (2012), and ‘Love Sick’ (2018) as well as nineteen singles including his hits “Soul Provider,” “Stronger,” “Beautiful To Me” and “Star Across The Sky ”

His music has been streamed more than 57 2 million times on YouTube, 4 5 million times on Spotify, and 24 2 million streams on Pandora

He is ranked in the top 100 most popular artists from Jamaica and receives radio play worldwide in key markets The United States, The UK, The Caribbean, and Canada

CIGA Records taps region’s music for big global impact

Shawn Baptiste, founder and managing director of CIGA Records, has positioned his company to further expand the reach and impact of Jamaican music

At a launch event atop the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel on Thursday, March 16, Baptiste outlined his company ’ s vision and detailed his current projects

Operating as a talent agency and record label, CIGA Records was established in Jamaica to add value to the local music industry by bringing authentic reggae and dancehall acts into larger markets

Baptiste contends that “discipline and

organization are important A focused and unifying approach can move our music to expand our global reach and influence ”

In a room filled with industry players, CIGA Records unveiled the video for Beenie Man’s single Caribbean Boyz The video was shot on location in Jamaica and St Croix and directed by Stevie Bernard It provides a picturesque view of Caribbean locations as dancehall music, dance, and vibes are expressed in unique ways in various territories

The Caribbean Boyz Link Up Music Project, anchored by the title track and

Dancehall artiste Spice not pregnant

By Micaiah Morgan CNW Writer

Jamaican dancehall artiste Spice said that the post made earlier this week, which appeared to be that of a baby bump, was a representation of the rebirth she has undergone over the past six months since she was hospitalized

The artiste said the photo was not a publicity stunt promoting music, nor confirmation of pregnancy

This was revealed during her Instagram live on Friday when she described her experience in a Dominican Republic hospital, where she had to undergo emergency surgery for a hernia repair and sepsis

She also shared photos and told her ‘besties’ that this is her second life after she came so close to death while giving thanks to God

954.739.6618

corresponding music video, features singles from Alaine, Yaksta, Bounty Killa, Beres Hammond, Sizzla, Elephant Man, Natural Blacks, and dancehall’s newest sensation Valiant Shawn Baptiste, also known as CIGA, is a national of St Croix in the U S Virgin Islands He is a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, horse racing enthusiast, and an avid lover of reggae music. It is this love and appreciation for the genre, coupled with the invaluable encouragement from legendary stalwart Beres Hammond that birthed CIGA Records

Spice, whose real name is Grace Hamilton, also announced that she released a song on Friday called ‘God Bless Me’ The song is on all streaming platforms and her video is available on YouTube

She expressed her excitement for her new journey and invited her followers to join her on her new path

She also said that her shows will resume, including in the Cayman Islands next week, New York on April 8, and Jamaica and Bermuda She shared too that she is also considering doing a gospel album, and said that she has a reggae song coming out next week

Romain Virgo

Miami among 16 World Cup 2026 venues selected by FIFA

Miami has been selected by football’s world governing body FIFA as one of the 16 cities announced as venues for the 2026 men’s World Cup

Eleven cities were selected from the United States, three from Mexico, and two from Canada in what will be the first-ever 48team tournament

It will mark the first time the men ’ s version of the game will be hosted by Canada

The 11 cities and venues selected in the US are Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta; the Gillette Stadium in Boston; AT&T Stadium in Dallas; NRG Stadium in Houston; Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City; SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Hard Rock Stadium in Miami; MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey; Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia; Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco; and Lumen Field in Seattle

The two cities for Canada are BMO Field in Toronto, and BC Place in Vancouver, while those in Mexico include Estadio Azteca in

Mexico City, Estadio Akron from Guadalajara, and Estadio BBVA in Monterrey

As host nations, the US, Mexico, and Canada will all earn direct berths to the final

The 2026 World Cup will be the first tournament featuring 48 teams and 12 groups of four teams in each

The top two from each

Coley urges intensity as WI eye historic series win

Interim head coach of the West Indies

Andre Coley has urged continued intensity from his side in the final One-Day International (ODI) of the three-match series which bowls off on Tuesday, as the visitors are buoyed by the prospect of their first series win over South Africa in three decades

The Caribbean side was excellent in the second ODI in East London last weekend, producing a strong all-round performance to take down the Proteas by 48 runs at Buffalo Park

With the opener rained off last Thursday, the final game will serve as a series decider, with West Indies in touching distance of their first series win over South Africa since the inaugural 1992 series between the two teams in the Caribbean

group will reach the Round of 32, plus the eight best third-place teams will also reach the knockout rounds

There will be 104 games at the 2026 World Cup which will be hosted by three nations for the first time

Legendary footballer Richard Davy to be honored by the Jamaica College Old Boys Association of Florida

Former Jamaican soccer player and football legend Richard Davy will be honored at the True Blue Weekend hosted by the Jamaica College Old Boys Association of Florida (JCOBAFL) in Sunset Lakes, Miramar, Florida, on March 24th and 25th, 2023

Davy was born in Jamaica in 1953 and attended both Wolmer’s High School and Jamaica College (JC), and was a member of the Wolmer’s team that won the 1971 Manning Cup

He will be in attendance at a special invitational match between Jamaica College and Wolmer’s High School to be played in his honor during the weekend’s SoccerFest

In 1967, Richard led the Jamaica College Colts Under-14 team to the Corporate Area championship game and won a Manning Cup Championship at Jamaica College in 1968 before transferring to Wolmer’s Boys High School

game record of six goals, the single-season record of 23 goals, and the career record of 48 goals He left high school having won the high school championships at two different schools just four seasons apart

Richard Davy was awarded a scholarship to Howard University where he led his team in assists and was the second-best scorer between 1972 and 1975 During his time at Howard, the university team played in the National SemiFinals three times, played a Championship game twice and winning in 1974, and won fourth place in 1975 He was named to the AllAmerican All-South first team in 1975

when he retired During this period, many of Davy’s teams were undefeated, and he was the lead scorer in the league for most of the years

Richard Davy was inducted into the Howard University Hall Of Fame in 2014

The 2023 True Blue Weekend will be the first held since the COVID-19 pandemic It will be the 16th annual True Blue Weekend, an event that credits its longevity to the strong support of the community

The True Blue weekend is an expansion of the annual Ziadie Cup soccer match between The St George’s College Old Boys Association of Florida, Inc and The Jamaica College Old Boys Association of Florida, Inc The annual match is in memory of Dennis Ziadie, who coached both schools to Manning Cup victories

The True Blue Weekend is expected to draw over 1000 spectators and supporters The True Blue 2023 weekend dates, events & locations are as follows:

The Jamaica College Old Boys Association of Florida was established in 2004 It is committed to upholding the traditions of excellence of Jamaica College as one of the foremost educational institutions in the country of Jamaica while supporting the school in the development of its students

“Every game brings new possibilities We’re in a very good space mentally and we ’ re happy with our preparation,” Andre Coley told reporters on Monday

“And we ’ re really just looking at making sure we’re ready for this game The conditions, we’ll obviously have to work that out and work out what is the best approach, but we ’ ve been taking it on a match-bymatch basis

“We’re in a good space, we ’ ve had good plans and everybody is just looking forward to playing this second ODI with the possibilities that are in front of us ”

He added: “There are always going to be areas that you can point [to] for improvement but we ’ re just looking for a new start – a fresh start – and to be better all-round ”

While praising West Indies’ 335 for eight in East London, Coley urged his batsmen to build on their starts Only Shai Hope, in his first game as captain, carried on with an unbeaten 128 – his 14th ODI hundred

Rovman Powell (46), former captain Nicholas Pooran (39), and openers Kyle Mayers (36) and Brandon King (30) all got starts but failed to carry on

“Obviously it was satisfying, firstly getting a total of 300-plus obviously on the back of Shai’s hundred batting through the innings,” Coley pointed out

“Obviously we had significant partnerships [but] it would still have been good to see more batters go on from the starts but [there were] very encouraging signs nonetheless ”

In pursuit of their highest-ever target against West Indies, South Africa got away quickly to be 184 for two at the halfway stage of the innings, before fast bowler Alzarri Joseph and left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein hauled their side back into the contest with three-wicket hauls

But leg-spinner Yannic Cariah went at nine runs per over and fast bowler Odean Smith, eight runs per over, and Andre Coley said the team would be striving for an improved bowling effort overall

Also in 1971, he led the Wolmer’s team to win the Manning Cup, Walker Cup, and Olivier Shield, making the school only the second in history to accomplish this feat By the end of his high school football career, Davy set the single-

Davy was drafted by the Connecticut Yankees of the American Soccer League (ASL) after leaving Howard University and played in various professional and semi-professional leagues, including the Jamaica “Nats” based in Washington DC, through the season of 1987