National Weekly April 9, 2020 by Creative Network Media

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14

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MASKS ON! This position did not arrive overnight, as reputable international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) took ambivalent positions. But as the coronavirus crisis deepens, leaving in its terrible path painful stories of survival and heart-wrenching accounts of deaths, these positions have evolved to the point where both organizations now adopt a more pragmatic approach to deal with this clear and present danger to humankind. As late as March, both the WHO and the CDC’s position was that wearing masks was not necessary for the general population, except in situations where people were visibly sick especially with bouts of coughing. This position had its genesis in the stance taken by U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome M. Adams, who early in February advisably warned against purchasing medical masks, noting that it would not aid in the prevention of the coronavirus. This was generally thought, in some quarters, to be a position born out of trying to reserve this special piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) equipment for the health workers, who were on the frontline in the war against this pandemic. So what has caused this seachange in advice from global public health leadership which relies primarily on hard data and evidence in drawing their conclusions? It is the

Some cities in South Florida, such as Sunrise and Miramar, have now mandated the wearing of masks, bandanas or other face coverings in public spaces, bringing to the fore the debate over whether we need to wear masks as a means of ‘flattening the curve’ or containing the spread of COVID-19. Many people are already practicing social distancing and handwashing as recommended, but this is another layer of protection that the medical and scientific communities are now saying will have farreaching positive effects.

by Trevor G. Brown

fact that the rate, widespread nature, and prevalence of COVID-19, confounded the previous ‘modeling’ that was available in the medical and scientiﬁc community. WHO, also in February, made the important note that transmission of the dreaded virus via asymptomatic persons was ‘rare’ but had to backtrack on these statements soon after, when evidence to the contrary emerged very forcibly. This was further conﬁrmed by evidence presented by the CDC in late March, regarding the infection rate among the ‘illfated’ Diamond Princess cruise liner, which found out that among the 700 passengers and crew that were found to be infected, 46.5 percent did not have any symptoms of the COVID-19 when they were initially tested. The CDC then made the allimportant deduction “that a high proportion of asymptomatic infections could partially explain the high attack rate among passengers and crew members.” Carolyn Machamer, Professor of Cell Biology from John Hopkins School of Medicine and specialist in coronavirus, was very clear in her study about the possibilities of aerosolization of transmission of COVID19, given the fact that it can last up to three hours in the air. Therefore, normal human actions such as speaking, coughing, sneezing are mediums through which transmission can occur. It is therefore through continues on B4 Masks On!

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Tensions Build Over Drug To Treat COVID-19 by Garth A. Rose

With coronavirus (COVID19) cases increasing dramatically in the United States—some 387,000 cases as of Wednesday—the nation now has the most cases globally and is desperate for a drug to effectively treat the virus. Unlike other forms of coronavirus, like the common cold and influenza, there is yet no proven medication to treat COVID-19. The possibility of a vaccine to treat the virus is at least a year away, according to most scientists' best estimates. In recent weeks, there have been claims, including from President Donald Trump and members of his administration, that a drug, hydroxychloroquine, normally used to treat malaria and lupus, is effective in treating COVID-19. Two weeks ago, Trump at one of his coronavirus task-force press conferences, optimistically said the drug has potential as a drug to treat COVID-19. However, at the same press conference the top U.S. infectious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, while agreeing that the drug could have a positive effect with COVID-19 patients, cautioned that it needed to be tested before it can be generally prescribed for coronavirus. Last Sunday at another coronavirus task-force press conference, President Trump again touted the use of hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 although testing of the drug hasn't been completed. “What do I know, I'm not a doctor," Trump said Sunday. “But I have common sense.” In promoting the use of the drug, the president has often stated, “What have you got to lose?” One of the Trump administration's continues on B4 – Tension Builds

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

EASTER FEATURE

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

U.S. NAVY CAPTAIN JANICE SMITH MAKES HISTORY AGAIN A3

TASTY CARIBBEAN EASTER RECIPED B1

VYBZ KARTEL LOSES APPEAL IN COURT B3

WARNER NAMED IN CORRUPTION CHARGES C3

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| THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14

Make Your Own Mask: To help stem the spead of the Coronavirus, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams demonstrated to American ci zens how to make their own masks using everyday household items. – Contributed

#StayHome: City of Miami Beach Police Department Deputy Chief, Wayne Jones (pictured) joined Chief Police chief Rick Clements in ge ng the message across to members of the Miami Beach community. – Contributed

Community Feeding: Superintendent of Miami Dade County Public Schools, Alberto Carvalho (le ), City of Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert (center), and friends conducted community feedings, serving over 1,000 hot meals prepared by partner restaurants during #COVID-19. – Contributed

Wellness Wednesday: Commissioner Mike Gelin reminding the ci zens of Tamarac to take care of their minds, body, and spirit during this period with the Coronavirus, by making healthy choices and staying ac ve. – Contributed

Fire Rescue: Members of the City of Tamarac Fire Rescue team took advantage of the pick up services oﬀered by local Tamarac restaurant Sushi Raku. – Contributed

Checking In: Sheriff Gregory Tony (right) visited BSO's Central Regional Communica ons site to check in with personnel who are the very first of first responders, responsible for receiving incoming emergency and non-emergency calls for service and dispatching the appropriate response resources. – Contributed

Self-love #recommended Jessica Wong, selflove advocate, internet model and swimwear designer invites her audience to stay mo vated, keep moving, stay ac ve, and ins ll some love of self. – Contributed

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14 –

NEWSMAKER

U.S. Navy Captain Janice Smith Jamaican Creates History as First Black Woman to Head Military Sealift Command Atlantic (MSCLANT) Among the thousands of Jamaican immigrants that have relocated to the United States of America and have maintained a standard of excellence is Navy Captain Janice Smith, who recently became the ﬁrst African-American woman to head the Military Sealift Command Atlantic (MSCLANT). She assumed leadership of MSCLANT during a change of command ceremony held at Naval Station Norfolk on Thursday, March 19. The promotion places Smith in control of the entire Atlantic regarding the execution of strategic sealift missions, the transportation, and maintenance of military equipment, as well as logistics coordination. Smith is also one of only two active-duty African-American women within the U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Community who are screened for Major Command. Janice Smith, like many JamaicanAmericans, came from humble beginnings. As a child in Jamaica, she was raised by her late grandmother, Iris Plummer, who sold goods in Linstead Market in the rural parish of St. Catherine to make ends meet. Her mother earlier had left Jamaica in search of a better life for her family. In Jamaica, Smith lived in Morris Hall, not

In a 2016 interview with Caribbean National Weekly, Smith recalled a valuable lesson taught by her grandmother, which impacted her decision. “My Grandmother Iris taught me the importance of school and I was determined to complete college,” said Smith. “Coming from a singleparent family in Linstead, Jamaica, with little resources for college, I seized the opportunity.”

very far from Bog Walk in St. Catherine. She attended the Bog Walk Secondary School, now Enid Bennett High in St. Catherine. After graduating from high school, she migrated to Florida in 1988, joining her mother Gloria and brothers in South Miami. She was attending Miami-Dade College when she joined the U.S. Navy in 1989 to have the chance to expand her educational opportunities. In a 2016 interview with Caribbean National Weekly, Smith recalled a valuable lesson taught by her grandmother, which impacted her decision. “My Grandmother Iris

taught me the importance of school and I was determined to complete college,” said Smith. “Coming from a single-parent family in Linstead, Jamaica, with little resources for college, I seized the opportunity.” Smith started out as a cook onboard the USS YOSEMITE AD-19, stationed in Mayport, Florida, and went on to complete a BSc at Saint Leo University and an MSc at Troy State University, before applying for the Officer's Candidate Program in 1997. In 2016, she also created history when she became the first Jamaican-American and second Black woman to become a commander in the U.S. Navy. At that time, she assumed leadership of the Arleigh Burke-class guidedmissile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79). As a trailblazer in her field, her demanding job has not been without sacrifices. The wife and mother of two has been candid about the strain of navy life on her family. Being away from home between one week to nine months at a time, Smith says she is grateful to her husband, Julius Lyles for his support, as “[it] would be impossible without a spouse who understands and willing to fill the gaps when I am away missing a lot of day-to-day opportunities to influence our children lives.” Despite the challenges, Smith recommends a Navy career for other women. “Whether serving 2 or 20 years it provides good education benefits, opportunity to travel and lead a young, smart and educated workforce,” says Smith. “The U.S. Navy has done a great job of implementing policies to ensure all sailors have equal opportunity to excel. I'm very grateful to the courageous woman who paved the way for myself and other young women in today's Navy.” Although she has now lived in the United States for the majority of her adult life, Smith still remains close to Jamaica. As recently as last year, she was on the island visiting with relatives. She also remains in close contact with her alma mater, Enid Bennett High.

As we navigate these trying times, let us recognize the people on the frontlines in the ﬁght against COVID-19. The best support we can oﬀer is to do our part by following the CDC guidelines such as staying at home, practicing social distancing and wearing protective covering in public. Remember, we are all in this together.

N E T W O R K

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IDB To Finance Caribbean Projects For Coordinated COVID-19 Response The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is to make available more than US$7 million in non-reimbursable resources to Latin American and Caribbean countries under the 2020 Call for Proposals of the of the Regional Public Goods (RPG) Initiative. This is being done in light of what the lending agency says are the “recent developments and exceptional circumstances associated with the expansion of COVID-19. The Washington-based financial institution said the initiative will finance proposals for regional cooperation and policy coordination in the framework of Latin America and the Caribbean's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2020 Call for Proposals under the RPG Initiative opened on February 14. “Flexibilization mechanisms to allow for the submission of proposals under the current exceptional circumstances include a new deadline for submitting proposals on May 15 at 5:00 p.m. (US Eastern Standard Time),” said the IDB in a statement. The IDB said alignment with its operational priorities, and particularly with its response to COVID-19 in all fields of action, including social, fiscal, infrastructure, environmental, trade, among others, is a selection criterion. The other criteria are the value-added of a regional (vs. national) approach to addressing a development challenge or opportunity and sustaining the benefits of regional collective action once the initiative's support has concluded. The IDB said the RPG Initiative provides technical grants to finance solutions to shared challenges through regional cooperation among three or more IDB borrowing member countries.

U.S. Pledges $700,000 To Help Jamaica Fight COVID-19 The government of the United States has pledged US$700,000 to the government of Jamaica to help in the ﬁght against the COVID-10 outbreak across the island. According to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the funds will go directly toward Jamaica's emergency response. In a statement, USAID added that along with Washington, it is coordinating with the Government of Jamaica, international humanitarian partners, and other stakeholders to identify priority areas for investment. The release also quoted U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica, Donald Tapia as saying that the “Government of Jamaica has done a commendable job at addressing the spread of COVID-19 in the country. These funds will directly support emergency response activities that are vital for helping to ﬂatten the curve here in Jamaica.” The emergency response resource will support case management to strengthen clinical care while minimizing the risk of transmission to others; infection prevention and control in health care facilities and laboratory strengthening to prepare systems for large-scale testing of COVID-19.

“Government of Jamaica has done a commendable job at addressing the spread of COVID-19 in the country. These funds will directly support emergency response activities that are vital for helping to ﬂatten the curve here in Jamaica.” – Donald Tapia

Guyana Asks CARICOM Team To Return For National Recount The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Monday announced that it will be requesting the return of the high-level CARICOM team to give validation to the national recount of votes. In a statement, CECOM said that although the CARICOM representatives would not be in a supervisory role, the commission believes that the team's presence will give credibility to the process. GECOM Commissioner Vincent Alexander said that the agency will be soliciting the return of members of the team, who, after spending four days in Guyana last month, returned to their respective countries following the ﬁling of

an injunction against the initial recount. On Monday, during a meeting, members of the electoral body continued examining the modalities for the recount. Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield has been tasked with drafting the official document for the process. “The idea is to see if we can still get the CARICOM body, not as supervising the count but their presence can give some credibility to what GECOM does. The Commission will be reaching out. We have decided today that our preference in terms of external bodies to give validation is CARICOM. They will be informed soonest,” Alexander told journalists following

the meeting. He explained that the recount will follow all procedures of regular polling stations. Instead of the regular Statements of Poll, however, he explained that the commission will be developing a similar document to record the votes tabulated. “Along with the recount of the ballots, everything that is done at a polling station will be also be done during the counting. All of the issues of rejected ballots, all of those things will come up for review.” Regarding the roles of Returning Oﬃcers, Alexander said the commission has not decided whether or not they will be part of the process. continues on B4 – Guyana Recount

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Talk UP How are you managing, working on the frontline, during the coronavirus outbreak? Jeffrey (M.D, Pain Management & Clinical Trial Director) - Never would I have thought to witness such catastrophic events as a medical health professional. COVID-19 does not discriminate against age, race, or socioeconomic status. Physically, I am gratefully energetic and willing to give aid where needs be. Mentally, I'm drained; the sight of staggering numbers and lives this has touched leaves me distraught at times. Hope and faith is what gives us the stamina to carry on. Be safe, be courageous, and be strong! Bernadette (RN) - Right now things are very slow at the hospital, I work in outpatient surgery and they have canceled all non-emergency surgeries. I'm sure things will pick up soon as the virus ramps up on this area. I have heard that the hospital is trying to conserve on PPEs and is only allowing one per shift, these were made to be changed with each patient encounter. This is concerning! We could become an agent that helps to spread this awful disease. Our oath is to cause no harm. Tracy (RN - I.C.U.) - It's very difficult and stressful. The anxiety level is very high for us nurses and for me especially because this is a new environment. I just recently moved from Florida to California. A big move for me, but moving at this time is even more difficult but my hospital is supportive. They are providing the help we need, the PPEs and the proper training to care for these patients. But anxiety, tension and fear are very high on my unit. As I.C. nurses, we get the bulk of COVID-19 patients, so I'm in the middle of it. I just practice what I've been taught to keep safe, and have faith. Sheba (Registered Respiratory Therapist) - We are in the front lines daily along with our nurses and doctors. We have always been valuable assets in managing someone who comes into an emergency room or hospital in respiratory distress. Sadly, not many people know who we are. We do have degrees and licenses like our nursing allies. It is scary to go to work now because we are short of required PPE. The last few times I worked I reused my face shield and N-95 mask for an entire 12-hour shift. I recently got tested because I was symptomatic after taking care of patients who tested positive. My health office told me to return to work before I got my results and just wear a mask. I find this inappropriate. I am sad that America is willing to spend millions on campaigns but when we need a ventilator or PPE it is a bidding war. Governor Cuomo said it best, “I felt like I was on eBay.” Natalie (Medical Office Manager) - the office is a total mess. Patients who have been exposed want testing. They supplied us with 20 tests and we had 15 positive. No more tests were given to us so we're just treating patients based on symptoms. Hanging by a thread. My Dad was positive but thank God he is doing well. It's a crazy, hectic time. At first it was a ghost town (in the streets), but each day that passes, New Yorkers do not stay their backsides home. They are all over the place jogging, having a good time. They don't listen. I work in a Jewish neighborhood and it's 1000 percent worse there. Every 12 minutes someone dies in NYC. Ramona (RN) - Many people treat us nurses like we have the plague, understandably but it hurts. Today not feeling well, I went to the stadium with my emotional support dog, got pharyngeal swan test (for COVID-19), then a mutual sister friend and nurse left a couple masks on her porch so we were socially distant, [I'm] personally finding out [if I have the virus]. If I'm COVID positive, [I'll focus on] not spreading, getting better and globally eradicating this menace. I am praying. Lorna (RN) - It just happens that I was exposed, two of my patients were COVID-19 positive so I had to get tested and received my results a couple hours ago. Thank God I'm negative. The first thing that went through my mind was my family and what that would mean. Then, trusting God for a good report, I went through my mind over and over how I was forced to reuse the same N95 mask and gown and hope I was adequately protected.

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| THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14

Should Churches Comply With Stay-At-Home Orders? One of the many underlying social impacts resulting from the measures being taken locally and nationally to counteract the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) is the impact on religion. Since it’s the consensus of scientists that people-to-people contact is the primary way of spreading the virus, entire communities, including businesses and churches, have ceased to function regularly, to facilitate very important social distancing. For several weeks now, Christians in South Florida have been unable to attend and participate in regular Sunday services. This is understandable as crowded churches—with some from the most vulnerable population of 60 and older along with the younger population—make it more likely for people to spread the virus. Even before public oﬃcials issued stay-athome orders, some churches took measures to stop members from taking the rite of Holy Communion, especially in churches where the wine, representing the blood of Jesus Christ, is served to congregants from one cup, or chalice. However, more Christians are restless about attending church on Easter Sunday, to commemorate the resurrection of Christ from his cruciﬁed death on the preceding Good Friday. Last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis imposed a 30-day stay-at-home executive order for Florida but made the controversial decision to exempt churches. Justifying his decision, the governor said he didn’t think he has the right to stop churches from holding services. Since his decision, several churches,

including the Catholic Diocese of Miami, have stated they’ll not be hosting Easter services, in light of the continued spread of the coronavirus. In Rome, Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church, has also canceled the anticipated, and largely attended Easter services, as the virus continues to cripple Italy. Still, there are churches across the country, which are determined to, at the risk of penalty to church officials, continue holding services, not only at Easter but every Sunday. Many argue their Christian faith does not harbor fear, including of a vicious pandemic, as their God, who is not a God of fear, will protect them from the virus. Religious leaders and congregants who are complying believe that they don’t need a physical location to practice their faith. Further, this defiance of a rule meant to protect the wider society can put religious people in a bad light. On the other hand, some religious leaders view these new rules as an infringement on their religious freedoms, instead of the public safety recommendations that they are. No one is preventing Christians from worshipping God—instead, they are asking them not to gather in large groups to help prevent a virus for which there are no known cures or definitive treatments, or vaccines. A Louisiana pastor, who remains determined to open his church for worship, asked in a recently televised interview, “How can we say we trust and believe in God’s protective grace, and then act in fear of going to church to worship Him?” The Christians who are willing to continue attending churches despite the warnings of reducing social gatherings, see themselves as strong, faithful servants protected by God, not by man—hence obeying these orders challenges their faith. There are also concerns that if churches

close, people will lose an important support system in many communities. Churches remain one of the places many people go when things get dire and they need divine comfort, however, some churches are using video and conference calling to keep the community together. It also cannot be excluded that churches are concerned about their ﬁnancial health and are still looking for the tithes and oﬀerings their members bring, which many fear they will not receive if they close their doors or opt for remote worship. These trying times make it most important that Christian believers, irrespective of the level of their faith, are able to worship and pray to God on a more personal basis. After all, what’s important is the relationship a Christian has with God, which isn’t relegated to a crowded church. What the coronavirus pandemic is revealing is that if Christians truly believe and trust in God, they can be in touch with Him privately, in the quiet of their homes. God is there too as He is in the church.

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They didn't have to die By Dr. Anthony J. Hall There are over 11,000 Americans dead today who first heard about the coronavirus pandemic almost two months ago. Eleven thousand of our fellow citizens. Souls. Friends. Colleagues. Strangers. All dead. Quickly. They have been killed in every state of our country. Hundreds of thousands of us have been infected by the invisible yet powerful enemy. The worldwide destruction of life and society hearkens of a time over 5,000 years ago when our species had less control of the planet than we do today. The world is now on its knees. Onto these knees bow the competent and incompetent leaders of our world. We have seen some stalwart efforts by small nations such as Jamaica. With two deaths and almost 60 infected persons, Jamaica is fighting to stay closeted from the world and survive. Should they be hit hard, they may not recover. Here in the USA, we have been misled and bamboozled by our political leadership masquerading as disaster experts. Worse yet, they are practicing public health and critical care medicine without the slightest clue of what they are doing. Trained experts are sidelined by political mavericks with disruptive agendas. Yet, we are provided minimal information only. We have so little knowledge about the rate of infection and death amongst African-Americans and other people of color. There is ample evidence in the literature that Black people in this country suffer more diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and arthritis-related complications and disease than all other groups. Black people live in more climate and environmentally damaged communities than other groups. Black people have fewer medical providers in their communities and fewer hospital beds available per capita. Certain chronic, sometimes terminal conditions, such as Sickle Cell Disease, place Black people at more risk from conditions that prey on the immune system, as does the SARS-CoV2 virus, the cause of COVID-19 disease. Shall we ever receive the vital racedefined data on infection, hospitalization, respiratory support, and deaths caused by COVID-19? Will the people in the marginalized urban and rural communities

of color in this country be provided the same personal protective equipment (PPE) as others? What about some face masks at less than $15 each? African-Americans occupy a significant percentage of the staff of many hospitals throughout the country, working predominantly in the nursing and housekeeping departments. As we have seen on television, they are using operating room gowns incorrectly as PPE suits, incomplete plastic shields instead of proper eye cover, bouffant caps instead of head and neck hoods, and other errors of protection. They are subject to infection and the numbers will soon reflect these inadequate practices. The African-American communities of Florida and this country are on the edge of decimation by this microscopic virus and the bungled approach to its control and hope of containment. Unless drastic action is taken quickly, the community is in peril. The community cannot wait on the government officials to come rescue us. We need to jump to action now. Protect yourself by doing the following: ● Distance yourself from others – get 6 to 8 feet from everyone you meet. ● Stifle your respiratory secretions – wear a mask. Make your own mask or buy from the tailor or seamstress in your community. ● Sanitize everything – start with washing your hands multiple times every day and sanitize anything that people touch. ● Strengthen your immune system – find those ancient concoctions that our ancestors drank. Roots drink, herbal tonics, ground food, and build up yourself for the inevitable. ● Stay fit and healthy – exercise, stop or reduce cigarette smoking and alcohol intake. There may be a vaccine in 1-2 years. There may even be a cannabinoid supplement or treatment in 1-2 years. An old medication for malaria may even work, if it can get tested and trialed properly by medical personnel and not political lackeys. Our Black communities cannot wait for them. We may not exist in our present form in one to two years if we sit around and wait. Dr. Anthony J. Hall, MDCM, FACS is a Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained Neurosurgeon and the president of the James W. Bridges Medical Society. He has been practicing medicine for over 25 years.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14 –

LA SECTION HAITIENNE

Haiti Teams Up With Canada To Bolster Health System

World Bank Approves Million-dollar Grant to Support COVID-19 Response in Haiti

Haiti is seeking to strengthen its health system by developing enhanced cooperation with Canada. This was one topic discussed during a meeting between Prime Minister Joseph Jouthe and the Canadian Ambassador accredited to Haiti, Stuart Savage.

WASHINGTON, D.C. CMC – The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a US$20 million grant for the Haiti COVID-19 Response Project. The Washington-based ﬁnancial institution on Thursday said that this project aims to respond to the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic through testing and improved treatment in Haiti. “The rapidly evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic requires urgent action to prevent outbreak and save lives in Haiti,” said Anabela Abreu, World Bank Country Director for Haiti. “The World Bank is working in partnership with the Haitian Government and donor community to respond eﬀectively to the threat posed by COVID-19 by preparing the country’s medical system to diagnose and treat this

During the recent meeting, Savage said he was open to any request from the Haitian Government relating to the consolidation and extension of its body of health workers, the need for equipment for health infrastructure in the country. He stressed that synergy must be developed in order to provide proportional responses to the ﬁght against the coronavirus pandemic. Jouthe informed Savage that Haiti had already placed orders for more than 400 tonnes of medical equipment and he hopes to acquire powerful sprayers for disinfecting urban spaces. The Prime Minister also informed the Canadian diplomat that steps were underway with the Minister of Finance to open a solidarity account intended to collect funds from donors, the private sector and citizens wishing to help the country to face the health crisis in which the country engages. He also mentioned, among other things, the program of distributing food kits to the most vulnerable people in society.

continues on B4 – Million-dollar grant

Haiti Warns Of Dangers Posed By Expansion Of Coronavirus The Organization of American States (OAS) says Haiti has assumed the chair of its Permanent Council, warning of the dangers posed by the expansion of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Haiti's Permanent Representative Leon Charles, who will chair the council for the AprilJune period has called on governments in the hemisphere to face with open minds the challenges that the pandemic brings. “In these diﬃcult times, when COVID-19 represents an ever more serious threat for regional and global stability, the leaders of the region must show creativity and innovative spirit to contribute to the strengthening of

health infrastructure,” he said in assuming the chairmanship. Outgoing Chair of the Council and Permanent Representative of Guyana, Riyad Insanally recalled the challenges that the organization faced during his term. “It was an honor and a privilege for Guyana to preside over the OAS Permanent Council during a particularly diﬃcult period for our organization and our hemisphere,” Insanally said. “I wish all the best to the incoming chair.” The Permanent Representative of Belize, Daniel Gutierrez, will serve as vice-chair of the council. The World Bank's Board of Executive

Directors on Thursday approved a US$20 million grant for the Haiti COVID-19 Response Project. The Washington-based ﬁnancial institution said that this project aims to respond to the threat posed by the coronavirus pandemic through testing and improved treatment in Haiti. “The rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic requires urgent action to prevent [an] outbreak and save lives in Haiti,” said Anabela Abreu, World Bank Country Director for Haiti.

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14 –

FEATURE

Caribbean Easter Recipes Jamaican Easter Bun

Ingredients 3½ cups ﬂour 1½ cups sugar 4 tsp. Baking powder 1 cup stout or beer 1 egg (beaten) 2 tblsp. spoon melted butter or margarine 2 tsps. vanilla 1 cup cherries, raisins, mixed peel, cherries* ½ tsp. ground allspice pinch of salt 1 tblsp. spoon nutmeg ½ tblsp. spoon cinnamon ½ tblsp. spoon rose water ½ tblsp. spoon anise extract

Method In a large bowl, mix together ﬂour, salt, baking powder, spices and sugar. Mix thoroughly and add fruit. Make a well in the center of mixture and add melted butter and beaten egg. Mix again until like coarse bread crumbs. Make another well in center of mixture and add beer or stout. Mix the whole thoroughly and turn into well greased baking pans. Bake for 1¼ hours at 300° F. Makes two meatloaf pans. If desired, press a few whole cherries into the top of each bun. Combine fruit as desired.

Jerk Pork Ingredients Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

5 lb. Pork Shoulder (ask your butcher to cut into medallions or cubes) 5 tsp. Salt (season salt) 5 Garlic Cloves (minced) 4 sprigs Fresh Thyme 10 Whole Pimento (allspice berries) 1 tbsp. Burnt Sugar 1 cup Jerk Marinade

Method Wash pork in cold water then drain. Rub in the season salt, minced garlic and jerk marinade (see marinade recipe below). Add the burnt sugar and rub in to give a rich dark hue. Let marinate overnight or for at least two hours with the thyme and pimento then cook on the barbeque grill or in your oven at 400º F for about 30 minutes then lower the temperature to 275º F until done. Serve with Mango Salsa and Rice-N-Peas. Enjoy!!!

Easter Egg Dye Ingredients Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

12 large Eggs 8 cups Boiling Water 1/4 head Red Cabbage 1 teaspoon Vinegar

Method Place eggs in a single layer in the bottom of the pot. Add water, vinegar and cabbage. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer for 15 minutes. Remove eggs from pot and place in large bowl. Strain liquid through a coﬀee strainer and pour strained liquid into bowl with eggs. Cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper color. Remove from liquid and keep refrigerated.

ESCOVITCH FISH Fish prepared escovitch style is seasoned, fried and marinated with a peppery vinegar-based dressing made colorful with julienned bell peppers, carrots and onions. And, everyone knows this dish tastes better the next day. Even though it’s eaten year-round, no God-fearing Jamaican would be without fried king ﬁsh or red snapper on Good Friday. It’s the highlight of the Easter holidays. Ingredients Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

4 whole red snappers Salt and pepper 1 cup cooking oil

Method 1. The day before, clean and scale fish. Season with salt and black pepper and refrigerate. 2. Set stove to High and add cooking oil to pan. Dry fish with paper towel and pan fry for about 5 minutes each side. 3. Take fish out of pan and place on paper towel to drain oil

Escovitch Dressing Ingredients Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

½ each, green and red bell pepper, julienned 1 carrot, julienned 1 small onion, sliced in rings 3 Tbsp cooking oil (you can use leftover oil from frying ﬁsh) 2/3 cup vinegar 10 pimento berries (optional) ½ tsp salt 1 tsp hot pepper sauce ½ scotch bonnet pepper, seed removed and chopped

Method 1. Cut and chop vegetables and put aside. 2. Put vinegar and oil into a saucepan and bring to a boil 3. Add carrots and let simmer for about a minute 4. Add pimento seeds, if using, salt and pepper sauce 5. Add red and green bell peppers a simmer for a minute 6. Add onion and simmer for about 5 minutes or until the onion is transparent 7. Add scotch bonnet pepper and stir 8. Place ﬁsh into serving dish and spoon dressing on top

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Miami-Dade Residents Can Get unemployment Assistance Forms At Community Libraries While Florida's unemployment website and call center continue to struggle due to the overwhelming number of applicants, Miami-Dade has begun printing thousands of physical applications and using about half of the county's libraries as distribution and delivery centers. Mayor of Miami-Dade Carlos Gimenez says starting Wednesday, April 8, at 8 a.m., people who don't have access to computers can go to one of 26 libraries in the county to fill out their unemployment claim and return it to that same location. Completed forms in sealed envelopes can be submitted through a participating library's book drop-off station. County staff will then deliver it to the local state unemployment office. From there, the state office, CareerSource, will send the paperwork overnight to headquarters in Tallahassee for processing. The number to call to find one close to you is 305-375-2665. Residents in Miami-Dade County can visit any library for a printed application. The libraries will be open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. List of participating libraries below: Ÿ Allapattah Branch – 1799 NW 35th St., Miami, FL 33142 Ÿ Arcola Lakes Branch – 8240 NW Seventh Ave., Miami, FL 33150 Ÿ California Club Branch – 700 Ives Dairy Rd., Miami, FL 33179 Ÿ Coconut Grove Branch – 2875 McFarlane Rd., Miami, FL 33133 Ÿ Concord Branch – 3882 SW 112th Ave., Miami, FL 33165 Ÿ Coral Reef Branch – 9211 SW 152nd St., Miami, FL 33157 Ÿ Country Walk Branch – 15433 SW 137th Ave., Miami, FL 33177 Ÿ Edison Center Branch – 531 NW 62nd St., Miami, FL 33150 Ÿ Fairlawn Branch – 6376 SW Eighth St., West Miami, FL 33144 Ÿ Golden Glades Branch – 100 NE 166th St., Miami, FL 33162 Ÿ Hialeah Gardens Branch – 11300 NW 87th Ct., Hialeah Gardens, FL 33018 Ÿ Hispanic Branch Library – 1398 SW First St., Miami, FL 33135 Ÿ Homestead Branch – 700 N. Homestead Blvd., Homestead, FL 33030 Ÿ International Mall Branch – 10315 NW 12thSt., Doral, FL 33172 Ÿ Kendall Lakes Branch – 15205 SW 88th St., Miami, FL 33196 Ÿ Miami Beach Regional Library – 227 22nd St., Miami Beach, FL 33139 Ÿ Miami Lakes Branch – 6699 Windmill Gate Rd., Miami Lakes, FL 33014 Ÿ Naranja Branch – 14850 SW 280th St., Miami, FL 33032 Ÿ North Dade Regional Library – 2455 NW 183rd St., Miami Gardens, FL 33056 Ÿ North Shore Branch – 7501 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33141 Ÿ Northeast Dade – Aventura – 2930 Aventura Blvd., Aventura, FL 33180 Ÿ Palm Springs North Branch – 17601 NW 78th Ave., Hialeah, FL 33015 Ÿ South Miami Branch – 6000 Sunset Dr., Miami, FL 33143 Ÿ West Dade Regional Library – 9445 Coral Way, Miami, FL 33165 Ÿ West Flagler Branch – 5050 West Flagler St., Miami, FL 33134 Ÿ West Kendall Regional Library – 10201 Hammocks Blvd., Miami, FL 33196 The City of Hialeah has also made provisions for its residents that want to pick up printed applications.

Miramar Mandates Wearing Masks In Public If you plan to be out in public in the City of Miramar, you'll need to wear a mask or protective cloth that covers your nose and mouth, this according to an order issued Tuesday night by City Manager Vernon Hargray. City Manager Hargray stated, “COVID-19 continues to be a concern due to increases in the number of positive cases within the City of Miramar. In order to limit its potential community spread, it is now necessary for the City to implement further restrictions for the general health, safety, and welfare of the community.” This follows the “Safer at Home” order issued by the City on March 27th, advising residents to stay home. This is in line with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) recommendation that everyone “wear cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are diﬃcult to maintain.” In addition to the requirements applicable to grocery stores, hardware stores, pharmacies, and restaurants, employees and customers of all other essential retail and commercial establishments are strongly encouraged to wear a form of covering over the nose and mouth. BROWARD

COVID-19 Call Center Now Open Till 6pm The COVID-19 Hotline, established in partnership between Broward County and the Florida Department of Health in Broward on March 21, changed its hours of operations to mirror the Call Center for the Florida Department of Health in Broward County, eﬀective Tuesday, April 7. The new hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. Both the County and the Department of Health in Broward call centers will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 12. Florida Department of Health (FDOH) in Broward

reduced its COVID-19 Call Center hours eﬀective April 2. The COVID-19 Hotline answers caller's questions and performs over-the-phone assessments for testing eligibility, before referring callers to the Department of Health for testing. Since March 21, the Broward County COVID-19 Hotline has answered 9,180 calls and referred 1,433 callers to the Department of Health. For the latest updates, visit FloridaHealth.gov, email COVID-19@ﬂhealth.gov or call the FDOH Call Center at 866-779-6121 or 954-357-9500.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14

CONTINUATIONS

Tensions Build

Masks On!

from A1

strongest backers of the drug is Trade Adviser Peter Navarro, who according to reports that surfaced after Sunday's press conference, clashed with Dr. Fauci over the use of the drug. Dr. Fauci continues to be concerned about recommending the drug based only on unscientific, or as he puts it “anecdotal” evidence. Navarro, on the other hand, despite not having formal medical training, claimed in a CNN interview on Monday that reports of studies on the drug's use, which he had collected, were enough to recommend the drug widely. The American Medical Association's president, Dr. Patrice Harris, also said she wouldn't prescribe the drug for coronavirus patients, because the risks of severe side effects were “great and too significant to downplay” without large studies showing the drug is safe and effective for such use. Nonetheless, some doctors are actually prescribing hydroxychloroquine to patients with COVID-19. Research studies are now beginning to test if the drugs truly help COVID-19 patients, and the Food and Drug Administration has allowed the medication as an option for doctors to consider for patients who cannot get into one of these studies. Dr. Harris and other doctors claim the drug has serious side effects, especially affecting the heart rhythm, and still want more testing conducted before it's clear that the drug works against the virus and where the side effects are concerned.

an abundance of caution that the advocates argue that masks are now placed in the mix to bolster us from the asymptomatic carriers, who exhibit none of usual easily identifiable symptoms of cough, fever and muscle aches, but are nonetheless, significant transmitters of this dreaded disease. Although the studies and the debate over the efficacy of using masks to help contain the virus are ongoing, what is unquestionable is that using masks in this fight is better than not using anything at all. The barrier which it provides you from being ‘showered’ during normal speaking with an individual, much less when you are the unfortunate recipient of a sneeze or cough, could mean the difference between ending up being hospitalized or suffering excruciating pain, discomfort or death, as is the case in the present situation. Furthermore, this very normal practice of covering your nose and mouth to prevent droplets whenever we sneeze or cough is a normal part of one’s day-to-day activity, which is only being enhanced by a mask in these challenging times of COVID-19. We are only doing our community and ourselves a world of good, as wearing a mask is a low-risk intervention in staunching the spread of this virus. When we all don a mask, we are not only protecting ourselves, we are protecting everyone in our community. Masks on!

Cuba's Interferon Alpha 2B Meanwhile, a drug developed in Cuba has been proving to have positive results in treating COVID-19 patients. The drug, Interferon Alpha 2B, is among 22 drugs developed in Cuba since 1986 by its Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB) and used as a treatment for HIV-AIDS, hepatitis B and C, herpes zoster or shingles, dengue and different types of cancers. It is also highly recommended by medical specialists for its ability to fight the COVID19 virus. During the onset of the virus in Wuhan province, the Chinese authorities found it exceptional in destroying the virus from thousands of its citizens who contracted the disease at the earliest stages. Since the success of this antiviral drug has become public knowledge, Cuba has been flooded with requests from across the globe, including, Africa, Europe, Latin, and South America and Caribbean nations.

Million Dollar Grant

from A1

from A7

infection,” she added. The World Bank said that Haiti faces significant risks from the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the first cases have been officially confirmed, it said the risk of local transmission has increased, stating that a state of emergency was declared on March 20. “Vigorous response measures will be essential to reduce the spread of the virus,” the bank said. “Otherwise, there is a high potential for the number of COVID-19 cases in Haiti to rise significantly.” The World Bank said the new Haiti COVID-19 response project aims to limit the transmission of COVID-19 in Haiti through detection, infection control in health facilities and access to best care possible for people who become ill. This includes enhancing testing, minimizing spread through contact tracing of confirmed cases, and providing needed laboratory and protective equipment for healthcare staff to ensure quality of care as pressure on the medical system increases, the bank said. It said the project will also support communications activities to help community members understand what they can do to prevent spread and counter misinformation. The project supports the COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan developed by the Ministry of Health. The World Bank said it is rolling out a US$14 billion fast-track package to strengthen the COVID-19 response in developing countries, such as those in the Caribbean, and shorten the time to recovery. The immediate response includes financing, policy advice and technical assistance to help countries cope with the health and economic impacts of the pandemic, the bank said. As countries need broader support, the World Bank Group said it will deploy up to US$160 billion over 15 months to protect the poor and vulnerable, support businesses and bolster economic recovery.

Guyana Recount from A4

Evidence tuberculosis vaccine BCG prevents COVID-19 infection Recently reports surfaced that the BCG vaccine given to counter tuberculosis (TB) may provide protection against COVID-19 and signiﬁcantly reduce death rates in countries, including most Caribbean countries, with high levels of this vaccination. A study of 178 countries conducted by an Irish medical consultant in conjunction with epidemiologists at the University of Texas indicated countries with BCG vaccination programs have far fewer coronavirus cases by a factor 10, compared to countries without such programs. The BCG vaccine is still widely used in developing countries, where scientists have found, along with preventing TB, it also prevents infant deaths from a variety of causes, and sharply reduces the incidence of respiratory infections like the coronavirus. Most Caribbean-Americans residing in South Florida bear the scars of the BCG vaccine on their upper arms, as the vaccine was and still is mandatory for attending public schools in the Caribbean.

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He said the CEO will make such a determination. GECOM will be moving ahead with the national recount of votes on its own accord after the Appeal Court ruled on Sunday that it should not allow outside forces to interfere with its constitutionally mandated responsibility. Private Citizen Ulita Moore had ﬁled the injunction against the commission last month, contending that an agreement between His Excellency President David Granger and opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo, for CARICOM to overlook a national recount was illegal. After litigations in the High Court and its Full Court, the Appellate Court ruled on Sunday that the involvement of CARICOM was indeed unconstitutional. President Granger had requested from CARICOM's Chair Mia Mottley that the body supervise a national recount of all votes cast in Guyana's March 2, General and Regional Elections.

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Vybz Kartel Loses Appeal Controversial Jamaican entertainer Vybz Kartel and his three murder co-convicts had their appeals against their murder charges dismissed by the Court of Appeal on April 3. The Court of Appeal aﬃrmed the conviction, and thus all four men will continue to remain behind bars. The lawyers of the four men had presented a total of 14 grounds of appeal. Following the verdict, Vybz Kartel's Senior Attorney, Valerie Neita Robertson, QC, said she believes that the court has already agreed the sentences of the men should be reduced, however, the lawyers have seven days to submit paperwork for the court to make a ﬁnal decision on the sentences. In 2014, all four men were sentenced to life imprisonment for the 2011 murder of Clive 'Lizard' Williams. At the time, Justice Lennox Campbell directed that Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, serve a minimum of 35 years before being eligible for parole. Shawn Campbell (also known as Shawn Storm) and Kahira Jones would be eligible for parole after 25 years, while André St. John would be eligible after 15 years. Williams was murdered amid a dispute over two missing guns on August 16, 2011, at

Vybz Kartel

a house in Havendale, St. Andrew, but his body has never been found. Central to the prosecution's case was the forensic evidence. The trial was 65-days long—the longest in Jamaican history. Before Friday's verdict, Neita Robertson said on Thursday that she was “consistently conﬁdent” about the outcome of the appeal based on her review of the trial transcripts.

“It was a lot of paperwork, lot of reading, and it is my considered view that Mr. Palmer did not get a fair trial. What happened at that trial was a travesty of justice, and nobody in this country should support that,” Neita Robertson told The Gleaner newspaper. “Give the man a fair trial, and if the verdict is guilty, it's guilty, but don't do what was done,” she added, before quipping that there was still recourse at the Privy Council, Jamaica's court of last resort. “All of Jamaica knows what happened in the trial,” Neita Robertson added. “They heard it every day in the news and in reports in the media, and we know he didn't get a fair trial.” Fans of Vybz Kartel and Shawn Storm have outrightly voiced their disappointment in the Jamaican justice system, echoing the statements of the lawyers that the men did not receive a fair trial. Many dancehall fans around the world consider Vybz Kartel as “the voice of this generation.” Since his imprisonment, Kartel has managed to remain at the forefront of dancehall, even though he is not permitted to record music while in prison.

‘Best of the Best 2020’ Canceled “Taking into consideration the safety of our patrons, the uncertainty of the workforce and the climate of the travel industry, we have decided to postpone Best of the Best 2020 until next year, Sunday, May 30, 2021. Let us all focus on getting through these times with our families and loved ones,” the organizers said in a statement. “We have all been aﬀected and we all need each other to pull through completely before we commence and start going to concerts again. To all our supporters over the past 13 years, we thank you and appreciate you. We will get through this together and celebrate Best of the

Best of the Best, the annual Caribbean stage show held in Miami, has been canceled due to the coronavirus (COVID19). The organizers of the festival have conﬁrmed their decision to prioritize the safety of their patrons and promoters as the virus spreads across Florida, and the United States.

SAFARI

“Young, Gifted And Black" A Reggae Classic In early 1970, the Jamaican duo of Bob Andy and Marcia Griffiths entered the British national chart with “Young, Gifted And Black.” It was one of the biggest hit songs in the United Kingdom that year. On April 4, Trojan Records celebrated the 50th anniversary of the single's achievement by launching its younggiftedandblack2020 website. It highlights the accomplishments of young black people, posted by fans. "Young, Gifted And Black" was a reggae cover of American jazz singer Nina Simone's 1958 standard, "To Be Young, Gifted And Black." It peaked at number five on the British national chart. Laurence Cane-Honeysett of Trojan Records said an increasingly diverse Britain got into “Young, Gifted And Black” which was produced by Jamaican Harry "Harry J" Johnson. "'Young, Gifted And Black' was embraced by many as a unifying anthem—and of course music is one of the most emotive and motivational forces known to mankind," he reasoned. Cane-Honeysett added that "The positive theme is of course timeless. As of course, such is the quality of the duo's wonderfully uplifting performance, and beautiful, sympathetic production, which still sounds fresh and vibrant after all this time." Andy and Griffiths, who met in the early 1960s in Kingston, were romantically involved at the time of Young, Gifted And Black's success. They were also two of the top solo acts at producer Clement Dodd's Studio One label in the late 1960s. A prolific songwriter, Andy died in Kingston on March 27 at age 75. Griffiths, who became a member of the I Three, Bob Marley's harmony group, performs regularly in Europe and North America.

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Best's 15th year, healthier, stronger and bigger than before. See you all in 2021,” it read further. The event, which was set for May 24, was being billed as a tribute to women in Caribbean music, with an all-female lineup set to take to the stage. They are maintaining the same all-female lineup for the 2021 edition of the event, to be held at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami. The female acts advertised were Koﬀee, Spice, Lady G, Shenseea, Allison Hinds and Tanya Stephens. There is no conﬁrmation yet if the exact lineup will be the same for next year's event.

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Jack Warner Again Named In COVID-19 Further Upsets Corruption Indictment In U.S. CONCACAF Calendar Former FIFA executive and Trinidad and Tobago minister of government, Jack Warner has again found himself at the center of corruption charges after being implicated in a 53-count indictment unsealed Monday in the U.S. District Court in Brooklyn.

The 77-year-old Warner, once a powerful vice-president of football's world governing body, FIFA, and a perennial head of continental governing body, CONCACAF, and Caribbean umbrella organization, CFU, has been accused of receiving up to US$5 million in bribes. His charges include wire fraud, money laundering, and racketeering, with prosecutors alleging crimes to have taken place between 1998 and 2011. The indictment alleged that Warner “together with others, conspired to use their positions to engage in schemes involving the solicitation, oﬀer, acceptance, payment, and receipt of undisclosed and illegal payments, bribes and kickbacks. “Although the defendants and their co-

The coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the Caribbean football calendar, with organizers forced to postpone next month's ﬁnal stage of the Caribbean Club Championship along with the 2021 Gold Cup qualiﬁers set for June.

Warner

conspirators also helped pursue the principal purpose of the enterprise, the defendants and their co-conspirators corrupted the enterprise by engaging in various criminal activities, including fraud bribery and money laundering, in pursuit of personal and commercial gain,” the indictment continued. “The conspirators also participated in the corruption of the enterprise by conspiring with and aiding and abetting their co-conspirators in the abuse of their positions of trust and the violation of their ﬁduciary duties.”

Warner is among several former football oﬃcials and media executives charged by the US Department of Justice, sparking yet another scandal in the global football community. Former Brazil federation president, Ricardo Teixeira, and Guatemala football chief, Rafael Salguero, were among those implicated. Warner was named in a similar US Department of Justice indictment in 2015, also charged with “wire fraud, racketeering, and money laundering”, but has so far successfully avoided extradition to face those charges.

Reggae Boyz Keep Fit Despite COVID-19 Disruption The Jamaica Football Federation has devised programs for its players to ensure they remain in shape, as the regional and international calendar remains on pause due to the coronavirus pandemic outbreak. The governing body's president, Michael Ricketts, said there had been coordination between trainers and head coach Theodore Whitmore on developing plans for players. “Our technical team has been having constant meetings. The last one was last week Thursday, and they have been looking at ways

and means, keeping players ﬁt,” Ricketts told the Gleaner newspaper. “So, the physical trainers – Jason Henry and Lamar Morgan – along with coach Theodore Whitmore, have worked out a program for the locally based players in order to keep them ready.” CONCACAF, the continental governing body for football in the hemisphere, has been forced to postpone several tournaments due to the threat of COVID-19, leaving the Caribbean without any ongoing tournaments.

The first and second rounds of the Nations League have already been scrapped along with the quarter-finals of the Champions League and the Caribbean Club Championship and Club Shield. Of importance are the qualifiers for the 2020 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, which are set for late August and early September. Ricketts said while the future remained unclear because of the virus outbreak, it was important the JFF kept the national side at the ready.

In a statement, continental governing body CONCACAF, also announced it was also postponing the Nations League finals also carded for June in Texas. “Given the ongoing public health situation, and following consultation with FIFA regarding the international football calendar, we have made the decision to suspend the CONCACAF Nations League Finals, which was scheduled for June 4-7, 2020 in the Houston and Dallas areas,” CONCACAF said. The statement added: “…following the same considerations and discussions with FIFA, we have made the decision to suspend the Road to Gold Cup qualification matches scheduled in the June international window and the Caribbean Club Championship scheduled for May. “We will discuss with stakeholders format and scheduling options for these matches and communicate our plans in due course.” The Caribbean Club Championship finals were due to be held May 8-13 in the Dominican Republic and feature Jamaican club Waterhouse, Haitian side Arcahaie and host units Atlético Pantoja and Cibao.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, APR 9 – APR 15, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 14

A D V E R T I S E M E N T