NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51
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The True Spirit
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Haitian Women Seek Child Support For 'Peacekeeper Babies' Haitian women who claim they were sexually exploited by UN soldiers want child support.
by Garth A. Rose
One of the primary characteristics of this holiday season is the spirit of giving, especially to the less fortunate among us. Within the Caribbean Diaspora in South Florida, several organizations and individuals have been busy over the past several weeks, ensuring that the less fortunate members of the community and people in their respective home countries, who are faced with adverse situations, are not ignored. One of these organizations is the Jamaican Women of Florida, (JWOF), founded by attorney Dahlia Walker-Huntington in 2012. Since its launch, the organization organizes an annual food and toy drive beginning from Thanksgiving through to Christmas. Under the leadership of current president, Camille Edwards, the
organization has continued its involvement to caring for the less fortunate in the community. Over the past Thanksgiving holidays JWOF conducted an aggressive drive through partnerships with Kiwanis Sawgrass/Sunrise and the Jerk Machine Restaurant, to obtain and donate turkeys to families, to enable them to have the traditional Thanksgiving Day dinner. Turkey gift packages were donated to needy families identified at several churches, including the Holy Family Episcopal and Parkway Baptist in Miami Gardens, Christway Baptist in Miramar and the Blessing & Power Healing Deliverance Int'l Ministries, Fort Lauderdale. This Christmas, the JWOF, according to Vice-President June Minto, “identified several locations in Broward and Miami-Dade for our annual Book & Toy Drive, and we are most grateful that the response was quite heartening from the community.” Large donations of books and toys were received from students and parents of Andover Academy in Plantation; the congregation of the Holy Family Episcopal Church, clients, staff of the local law firm, Robinson Law & Mediation, and the management and staff at all the locations of Broward Meats. continues on B8 – Christmas Spirit
Lawyers for 11 women have filed the first legal action against both the UN and individual peacekeeping soldiers in paternity and child support claims. The lawsuit has been brought by human rights group Bureau Des Avocats Internationaux, (BAI) and the Institute for Justice and Democracy in Haiti, (IJDH). One mother claims she was raped while another was aged 17 when she gave birth, which amounts to statutory rape under Haitian law. Lawyers allege that the women were sexually exploited in some form by the soldiers, and should therefore receive support. The alleged fathers are scattered around the globe, having returned to their homes in Uruguay, Sri Lanka, Nigeria and Argentina, making it difficult to proceed with claims. Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary general, told the Guardian, that the organization would liaise with the countries the alleged fathers come from, and request that paternity and support claims be addressed. But he stressed that responsibility rests with “individuals who have been established to have fathered children.”
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CNN’S YOUNG WONDER OF THE YEAR A3
PASSING OF VETERAN JAMAICAN JOURNALIST MOURNED A4
NINJAMAN GETS LIFE IN PRISON B5
BARBADOS SPRINTER FACES DOPING BAN C1
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Fun and Laughter Mortgagegrant.com CEO, Chester Bishop, Barbara Gayle and Lauderdale Lakes Mayor Hazelle Rogers, share a light moment with the a endees at the Annual Black And White gala in Tamarac last Saturday night, Dec. 16. (Photo By Donovan Bedasee)
Til Death Do Us Part Jerrod Baldwin, (r.), proudly walk down the isle with bride Noelle at their wedding at the Bellefield Great House in Montego Bay, Jamaica earlier this month. (Photo contributed)
Stars Come Shinning Kidson Barnes wooed the audience at his annual event – Kidson Barnes Christmas Dinner Cabaret Show and Dance - at the Colony West Golf Club in Tamarac. (CNW Photo - Uriah Benne )
And The Honorees Are… Dr. Germaine Smith-Baugh, Roxanne Brown, Janice McIntosh, Geri Peterkin, Orel Powell, Leslie Cadet and Mr. Has ngs, (subbing for his dad Congressman Alcee Has ngs), were recipients of this year community awards at the Annual Black And White gala held at the Woodland Country Club in Tamarac last Saturday night, Dec. 16. (Photo By Donovan Bedasee)
Fashion Statement Winsome Charlton, (l.), and Claude e Hammond, showed off their head apparel at the High Tea party, held at the Grace Fellowship Church Hall, in West Palm last Sunday. (CNW Photo - Uriah Benne )
A Thousand Words Chris ne and her daughter displayed their affec on for each other on camera at a recent holiday event held in Chapel Trail, Pembroke Pines. (CNW Photo - Uriah Benne )
Tis' The Season! These two lovely folks, pictured at the Kidson Barnes Christmas Dinner Cabaret Show and Dance in Tamarac, surely bring out the joy of the holiday season with their infec ous smile. (Photo by Luke Ballen ne)
Cheers (L-R): Newly-wed Noelle Baldwin, nee McMahon, KaraAnn Boyne-Anderson and LeToya Boyne, all Miss Jamaica Florida past ambassadors, shared the moment at Noelle's wedding at the Bellefield Great House in Montego Bay, Jamaica earlier this month. (Photo contributed)
Ligh ng Up The Red Carpet Kimala shows off her black dress on the red carpet at the Annual Black And White gala in Tamarac last Saturday night, Dec. 16. (Photo By Donovan Bedasee)
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Jamaican American Teen Is
CNN Young Wonder Of The Year A soon to be 17-year-old Caribbean-American from New Windsor, New York, was on Friday night, Dec. 15th, presented with a CNN Young Wonder of the Year award in New York City. Haile Thomas, who was born to Jamaican parents in Dallas, Texas, and was inspired to cook by her mother at the age of five, was honored as a teen health activist for leading the next generation toward a healthier future by bringing cooking lessons and nutrition education to children in underserved areas. The teen is currently not just an activist but also a vegan chef, a motivational speaker and founder and CEO of The HAPPY Organization. Thomas says she began exploring healthier cooking with her family, when her father was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2008. In 2009, she started a YouTube channel, Kids Can Cook, with her four-year-old sister Nia. Thomas attended St. Gregory College
Haile with Former First Lady, Michelle Obama
Thomas
Thomas
Preparatory School but was later home schooled. In 2012, Thomas created one of the winning entries – a salad of quinoa, black beans, and corn – in the first White House Kids' State Dinner, hosted by Michelle Obama as part of her Let's Move! campaign. She also introduced the First Lady at the 2013 Kids' State Dinner and later joined her at the 2013 State of the Union Address. In 2013, the Jamaican-American founded The HAPPY Organization, to bring nutrition education to youth through cooking classes, summer camps, and in-school programs. In 2015, Thomas began employment at the Canyon Ranch Institute as a nutrition science assistant. In 2016, Thomas partnered with the non-profit organization Harlem Grown to provide education in urban farming, sustainability, and nutrition. In September of that same year, she moved with her family from Arizona to New York in order to expand her business and a year later,
Thomas is currently not just an activist but also a vegan chef, a motivational speaker and founder and CEO of The HAPPY Organization. Thomas says she began exploring healthier cooking with her family, when her father was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2008.
graduated as the youngest Integrative Nutrition Health Coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Thomas has served on the youth advisory boards for Alliance for a Healthier Generation and ChopChopKids, and as a Junior Chef Advisor for Hyatt Hotels. She has also given talks for TEDx, Deepak Chopra's Sages and Scientists Symposium, The Clinton Foundation's Health Matters Conference, Partnership for a Healthier America Summit, and the YWCA Women's Leadership Conference. Thomas has also appeared on The Today Show, Rachael Ray's Kids Cook-Off, and The Dr. Oz Show as well as in Fortune, O, The Oprah Magazine, Teen Vogue and YES! Magazine. Asked by Ripa about a vegetable she disliked, the teen said she could not name any but said the food she did not like are boiled Jamaican dumplings. “No offense to Jamaicans,” she added. Thomas was among five Young Wonders honored along with 10 CNN Heroes of the Year at the 11th Annual CNN Heroes All-Star Tribute hosted by Anderson Cooper and Kelly Ripa on Friday, December 15th. She turns 17 on Dec. 23rd. (NewsAmericasNow) Aubrey Stewart
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Passport Scandal In Grenada Yet another diplomatic passport scandal is unfolding in Grenada, according to local media report. Grenada news reports indicate that a 40year-old wealthy Pakistani national has been issued a Grenada diplomatic passport by the current administration of Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell. The individual has been identified as Fahad Sultan Ahmed, born on May 14, 1977, in Karachi, who reportedly obtained a Grenada diplomatic passport two years ago. However, he is not named in any official diplomatic capacity at the Grenada High Commission in London, nor does he hold any other portfolio or assignment anywhere for Grenada. This latest revelation follows allegations earlier this year that Henley and Partners, an advisory firm that plays a major role in promoting the citizenship by investment (CBI) program run by Grenada, was involved in an alleged scheme to obtain a diplomatic passport from the government of Grenada for a Ukrainian businessman, in exchange for a payment of US$1 million.
Passing Of Veteran Journalist Mourned The Caribbean media fraternity is in mourning over the death of veteran Jamaican journalist, Ian Boyne. Boyne died on Monday morning, Dec. 18, 2017 at the University Hospital of West Indies where he was hospitalized earlier this month after suffering a series of heart attacks. He was 60. At the time of his passing, he was the deputy chief executive officer of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), a Jamaica Gleaner columnist, and host of Television Jamaica's long running program, Profile, a weekly personality interview program, and Religious Hardtalk. Political leaders also weighed in. Jamaica's Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, expressed “deep sense of loss, shock, and regret” at Boyne's passing and said he “has been inspiring the nation as he shared remarkable stories of adversity, stories of triumph, resilience, and excellence through his television program.” Jamaica's Information Minister, Senator Ruel Reid, praised the professionalism and patriotism of Boyne, saying he had served the government and people of Jamaica well through the JIS, across political administrations and through his television program. Opposition Leader Dr. Peter Phillips asserted that Boyne had enriched Jamaican journalism while maintaining the highest traditions of the profession. Cricketer Chris Gayle said Boyne was “easily the most articulate person I have watched on TV over the years” while Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce added that her heart was heavy.
Boyne
Over 80 Caribbean Nationals Among Interpol's Most Wanted A whopping 84 Caribbean nationals are on the current Interpol's Most Wanted List for a range of serious crimes ranging from murder to drug trafficking to sexual assault and rape News Americas has found.
Leading the tally is Jamaica, which ranks sixth globally with the highest rate of violent deaths in the world. According to News Americas analysis, the number of wanted criminals from Jamaica on the Interpol list is a whopping 52. The list includes 29 who are wanted for murder. Second on the list of Caribbean nations is the Dominican Republic, which has 16 nationals on the list. They include two
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women – Elizabeth Cleydy Peralta Marte and Joan Jose Espinal Carvajal, both 27, who are both wanted for counterfeiting Guyana has six wanted persons on the list including Julie Elizabeth Ravel, a German citizen reportedly living there, who is wanted for alleged murder while Suriname has five including Brazilian-born, Surinamese national, Patrícia Terezinha Miguel Bom, 43, who is wanted for narco trafficking.
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51 –
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What does the Christmas season mean to you as a Caribbean immigrant in the US? Sunita Mohammed, “I have been to Jamaica for Christmas and I think it was more family oriented and more fun! I think here in the US, the holiday reason and season is lost in the corporate world. Family and holiday time are so minimal here it is hard to enjoy and difficult to get time off. I am grateful and blessed to live here and be a professional so it is just a part of our reality.” Shazard Mohammed, Miami, FL “Christmas is a very social time in Trinidad and Tobago with most people having parties. The traditional Trinibagonian Christmas meal includes apples and grapes, sorrel, ponche-de-creme (a version of eggnog) as well as other homemade delicious dishes. The climate is warm and flowers are in bloom which makes it a colorful season. Also, Parang is a specialty during the Christmas season. If you're a local or a visitor lucky enough to experience Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago, you'll know that there is nothing quite like a true “Trini Christmas.” The food, the atmosphere and the traditions that have evolved over the years make Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago truly unique.” You can also look for us in Jamaica
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Sabrina Hing, Miramar, FL “The December holiday season means a lot to me as a Caribbean immigrant because back home we don't really celebrate Thanksgiving so this time of year is for celebration, giving thanks for family and all that transpired during that year and bringing in the New Year with friends and family, with our little unique traditions. Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday and the New Year is filled with blessings and prosperity!” Meena Sardarsingh, “The December holiday should mean family, friends and lots of parties filled with food and drinks in celebration of the birth of the man to whom we owe our lives and faithfulness. However, living in the US has put a different spin on that. It's so much more commercialized here. Everything is the almighty dollar. The true spirit of the season is sadly, no longer celebrated.” Amber Rhoden, Florida “There's no Christmas like the one spent in Jamaica. Everybody comes together and enjoys each other's company, lots of laughter and reminiscing on times as children … good vibes, great food and cannot forget the sorrel. It's not Christmas with the sorrel!” Sabrina Lyn, Miramar “The December holiday season back home is celebrated as Christmas. As a Caribbean immigrant, Christmas is a blessing no matter where it is celebrated. It's a day family and friends come together, enjoy good food as well as share old childhood stories/memories. The holiday season tends to be an emotional time of year; it's always so nice to see family from abroad/ overseas. A big plus is that I look forward to the Jamaican traditional foods and drinks, such as sorrel and rum cake made with love by the relatives I don't get to see on an everyday basis!” Ashley Husman, Miramar, FL “As an immigrant from the Caribbean, the December holiday season in the U.S is a time to celebrate togetherness and appreciation for our beloved friends and family! It's the time of the year to appreciate the little things, such as Christmas lights and the festive decor, eggnog with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg and holiday potlucks as well as other celebrations. Growing up in the Caribbean, the holidays were most about family than gifts, so I believe it's imperative to keep family and friends at the heart of the December's holiday season.”
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Oliver Falloon-Reid, Pembroke Pines, FL “For me, Christmas has always been that special holiday that is filled with childhood nostalgia for the most part. As I get older, I take time out to look back at the year's coming to a close and to think about all the blessings I've had and how I can share love and concern for others. It is really a time to care, share and embrace the imputed meaning of God's love and gift of peace and goodwill to mankind.”
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These Christmas Gifts Bring No Joy Yes, it is almost Christmas Day; the annual traditional celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ that is marked by good cheer and the exchange of greetings and gifts. This Christmas, some “gifts” are being offered which seem to be coming from the Grinch, who according to the popular Charles Dickens' 'Christmas Story,' is bent of stealing the joy from Christmas. For the past several weeks, the Republican administration and the incumbent US President have been furiously trying to put together a tax package they claim benefits the middle class. The plan is to have this tax bill rushed to the President's desk to be signed into law before Christmas Day. The President says the new tax package is the “best Christmas Present” Americans will receive. But this gift seems to be one wrapped in pretty paper and tied with a golden bow, while inside, the wrapper is a porcupine with nasty needles. On one hand, the promo surrounding this tax package claims it will result in most Americans paying less taxes, placing more spending money in their pockets. However, on the other and most importantly, the implementation of this new tax package means the government will increase the national debt by well over a trillion dollars. To reduce this massive increase in the national debt, the government will be forced to cut programs funded from the federal budget. Already, the Republican leadership in Congress has indicated that
among the priorities of the 2018 agenda is the reduction of entitlements. These entitlements include programs for senior and low-income Americans such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Meals On Wheels, Food Stamps, WIC and the Children Health Program. So this much hailed gift of a beneficial tax package is being given with the right hand while the left hand is poised to take away the benefits it's proposed to give. Another package that the Republican administration has been preoccupied in preparing for American consumers, one which seems determined to take the joy out of this Christmas, is changing the way the Internet is used. Last week, the Federal Communications Commission, (FCC), voted to end the policy of Net Neutrality, which the Obama administration introduced in 2015 to govern the operations of Internet providers like Comcast and AT&T. Under net neutrality, Internet providers are required to provide all content equally, without giving preference to some digital content providers. In other words, under net neutrality, consumers are free to access any website, app, video, etc., equally, regardless of where the content is hosted.
The intent of the Obama administration was to ensure information provided over the Internet is as open as possible. Comcast, for example, was not permitted to make access to one website slower than another, or charge a fee to access more popular websites like YouTube. The FCC vote now threatens the open Internet. If this policy is implemented, it means that Comcast, ATT, Verizon etc., could make it more difficult to access popularly visited websites. Internet providers would be able to operate the Internet similar to CableTV providers. The latter markets some channels as part of a basic, less expensive package, but market channels like HBO and Showtime as primary channels at a higher fee to consumers. This reversal of the net neutrality policy could have a negative impact on how businesses conduct research on the Internet; how students' access information related to their respective courses of study and how the general public access information and use the Internet. Of course, the Internet providers will benefit significantly if the policy is implemented. The impact of the new tax package and net neutrality can be averted if members of Congress, mostly Democrats, are more aggressive in opposing them. It's anticipated that Congressional Democrats will be more aggressive in ensuring that entitlements due to seniors and low-income Americans are not compromised. These Democrats also have a responsibility to ensure Americans have access to free, easily accessible information through an open Internet. Meanwhile, we at CNW hope our readers, associates, and advertisers will receive other gifts they truly deserve this Christmas. We also hope the message of “Merry Christmas” will resonate with meaning throughout your families and businesses.
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Thousands Bid Adieu To Caribbean Patty King A South Florida Diaspora leader made it his business Monday, to fly to New York City to pay his final respects to the Caribbeanborn co-founder of the Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill, 'Caribbean Patty King,” Lowell Fitzgerald Hawthorne. Leo Gilling, a former Jamaica Diaspora Board Member for the West/Midwest U.S. and agency principal of Allstate Insurance in South Florida, said he had to say goodbye in person at a viewing held in Mount Vernon, NY on Monday night, Dec. 18th, since Hawthorne helped him to launch his first patty shop in Los Angeles with no upfront money. “He will be missed,” he told News Americas, adding that Hawthorne built the largest Caribbean franchise in the US competing with mega chains like McDonalds and Burger King because he “dreamed big and proved it was possible.” On Tuesday, Dec. 19th, some 5,000 people stood in long lines to gain entry to the funeral service, held at the Christian Cultural Center at 12020 Flatlands Avenue in Brooklyn, NY. Many had hoped to get a last glimpse of the man who created Caribbean franchise history in the US but family members kept the early morning viewing private. However, once inside, they were able to read all about the Jamaican immigrant who achieved the American dream and became a self-made millionaire in the US, inside the pages of a 45page funeral program. Local politicians joined Diaspora leaders, employees, franchise owners, friends, family and well wishers in celebrating the life of the 57-year-
Family members sing a tribute at the funeral for Lowell Hawthorne at Christian Cultural Center on Tuesday in Brooklyn. (Debbie Egan-Chin/New York Daily News)
old who died from a self-inflicted gunshot at his Bronx corporate headquarters on Dec. 2, 2017. His death remains a mystery even though the rumor bill has been buzzing. But Hawthorne's widow, Lorna, shared her private pain with mourners, writing that his shocking suicide left her family heartbroken and grasping for answers. Though you left us with many tears and questions-we must continue our life and will see you in paradise," she wrote. Son Haywood Hawthorne, a vice president at Golden Krust, said his father is “now in eternal peace while his daughter Monique Hawthorne choked back tears as she described losing her "best friend."
Hawthorne's two other sons, Darren and Omar, also gave moving eulogies, with Darren voicing the family's shock over the unexpected tragedy. "I always knew the day would come when I would have to write this tribute. While I didn't expect the day to come this early, you have instilled the principle of faith in all of your children," he said. Former Jamaican Councilwoman Una Clarke spoke at the funeral and presented a proclamation from her daughter, JamaicanAmerican Congresswoman, Yvette Clarke, who was voting on the tax bill in Washington and could not attend. Also sending greetings was Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Jamaica's former Prime Minister PJ Patterson. Hawthorne was born in St. Mary, Jamaica and migrated to the U.S. in 1981. He earned a Bachelor's Degree from Lehman College. In 1989, he along with his wife, Lorna and four siblings pooled their money together to open the first Golden Krust retail location in Bronx, New York. They later turned the company into a franchisor of Caribbean food and pastries, and today there are over 120 restaurants in nine U.S. states. He was also an author who recently released the autobiography: 'The Baker's Son;' had appeared on the popular CBS show 'Undercover Boss,' and was a philanthropist who supported many Caribbean American causes including some 300 scholarships for students of the University of the West Indies through the American Foundation of the UWI, (AFUWI). In 2012 he was conferred with an honorary doctorate from UWI. Hawthorne was laid to rest following a private burial in Westchester, NY. (NewsAmericasNow)
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Christmas
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CHRISTMAS FEATURE
Across The Caribbean By Garth A. Rose
Christmas is a very special time in the Caribbean, highlighted of course by Christmas Day, but with the festivities beginning from around December 1. Regionally, the season is characterized by a heavy rotation of Christmas carols and music on the radio; office, school and house parties; shopping, including special Christmas markets; cultural dances and masquerades; concerts, feasting, caroling by church groups, exchange of gifts, and of course, Christmas Day church services heralding the birth of Jesus Christ. In recent years, as the North American and European influence permeates the region, aspects of Christmas in the Caribbean have adapted a foreign flavor. This includes the decoration of artificial Christmas trees, Santa Claus at malls and shopping centers, decorations of houses with Christmas lights and a more profound commercialism than in former years. Despite the influence from the First World, there is something about Christmas in the Caribbean that is special, more inter-personal, offers a greater expression of love and carries a more poignant religious message than in either North America or Europe. Some of the features of Christmas in the Caribbean include:
Christmas Preparation Preparations for Christmas in the region begin weeks before Christmas Day. For most families, regardless of how humble, the focus is on home and children. The period leading up to Christmas is a time to repaint or do repairs around the house. Those who cannot afford to repaint the house repaint the fence, but the house must look 'good' for Christmas. Christmas is also the time for new curtains, bed spreads, utensils, furniture and electrical appliances. Several people save during the year in traditional bank accounts, Christmas clubs or informal 'partners' to have 'Christmas money' to “fix up the house.” In the modern Caribbean homes, families decorate real or artificial trees, and several hang colored or white Christmas lights from their roofs. As Christmas approaches parents spend some of the 'Christmas money' to
purchase new clothing and toys for children. On Christmas Day, children and their parents too, are usually seen in church or Christmas markets in their new outfits from head to toe. Girls are proud of their Christmas dress and boys their new Christmas shoes. Certain drinks and food are key components of Christmas in the Caribbean. In Jamaica, housewives set about “drawing” sorrel, by steaming the fleshy buds from the plant in water, white rum, blended ginger, pimento and sugar. The longer the sorrel drink is set to brew, the better
Junkanoo dancers in Jamaica
Christmas Service
the drink tastes when it is served on Christmas Day. In some countries in the region, women purchase and season portions of pork days before Christmas Day. In Antigua, for example, pork cooked in a variety of forms is very popular at Christmas. In countries like Jamaica, a leg of ham is purchased and baked in the days just before Christmas. Another traditional Christmas treat is the Christmas pudding, and cake. These pastries are made from a blend of mixed dry fruits, including currants, raisin, prunes, mixed peel, and a very liberal application of red wine and/or rum. Caribbean homes have a special aroma in the immediate days before Christmas emanating from hams, puddings and cakes being baked in ovens.
Trinidadians will have pastelles - a cornmeal pocket stuffed with minced beef, highly seasoned, with peppers and olives, and varieties of roti. In Barbados the specialty is jug-jug, a dish made with ground meats, guinea corn and pigeon peas and in Guyana it is pepper pot, a dark meat stew. The drink is either rum punch, sorrel, ginger beer, mongay (Trinidad), rum-popo (Belize), anisette (Haiti), or a fruit punch, and dessert all over the Caribbean is the famed Christmas fruit (black) cake or pudding. The Christmas meal is a main event for the gathering of families, old
Baked Ham
carols. In recent years, some churches hold a Christmas service late on Christmas Eve, ending a little after midnight on Christmas Day. Portions of these Christmas Eve services are sometimes held in candlelight, with the congregation singing carols like “Silent Night.”
Christmas Church Service
The Christmas Meal
In the old days, families dressed in their brand-new Christmas dresses, suits, hats and shoes - some much too tight and painful - and attended early morning Christmas services, some starting as early as 5 a.m. However, as crime has become an unfortunate problem, the early morning Christmas service has moved to around 7 or 8 a.m. Regardless of the time, the Christmas Day service is a big tradition in the Caribbean, where choirs, joined by the congregation, sing rousing renditions of Christmas
Christmas Day, after the opening and exchange of gifts on Christmas morning, is one long day of feasting and drinking in the Caribbean; but the focal meal is Christmas dinner. The content of the meal varies in every Caribbean country, depending upon the culture of that country. In Jamaica, baked ham, fried or jerked chicken, roasted beef, curry and rice and peas, is almost a certainty, Many countries have now adapted the roasted turkey. In Antigua, the meal will consist of baked, corned or stewed pork.
and new, and friends who may have no family or visiting from overseas. Usually, there is food for anyone who wants to share in this great Caribbean Christmas tradition, which is akin to what the Thanksgiving meal is in the USA, plus some. In Haiti, Haitians attend midnight mass and return home to enjoy the "reveillon” meal, a breakfast that begins very early on Christmas morning lasting until the sun comes up. At the Reveillon it is very common to find, Conch Creole, Seafood Soup, and many other types of dishes and desserts.
Christmas Masquerades And Traditional Music In several islands, Christmas is characterized by colorful masquerade groups that parade and dance to musical bands featuring drumming
and the blowing of fifes. Among the most popular of these bands are the Junkanoo dancers. Some 50 years ago, Junkanoo bands were very popular in Jamaica. These bands including players dressed in costumes depicting the devil, policemen, dragons, horse heads, pregnant women and clowns, paraded the streets dancing and prancing. Although they were usually a festive attraction some of these masqueraders scared some children and even adults. These bands are rarely seen in Jamaica nowadays. However, Junkanoo is more popular in the Bahamas, where several bands parade attracting large, enthusiastic crowds. There are similar bands in other islands, including the Highlanders, Jumba-Ben and Tall Ghosts in Antigua. In some islands, Christmas is a time to break out traditional music. On Christmas Eve, mainly in rural communities, groups of residents still go out caroling with a Caribbean flavor. In some areas of rural Jamaica one can hear mento bands on Christmas Day at fairs, or see folk groups dancing the Quadrille, and young girls performing the colorful Maypole dance. In Trinidad and Tobago Christmas is Parang season. Parang is a lively, rhythmic music featuring instruments including drums, guitars, maracas, saxophones and tambourines, which have its origin in Spanish culture. Parang is heard and danced all over Trinidad at Christmas and is as popular as calypso and soca is at carnival time. Parang is also popular in Grenada where a parang festival is during the Christmas season. Dancing, whether to reggae and dancehall in Jamaica, Parang in Trinidad and Tobago or Kompa in Haiti, is very popular at Christmas. The night clubs which have mushroomed in Caribbean cities in recent years are jammed pack at Christmas, especially on Christmas Eve, Christmas night and Boxing Day.
Natures Gifts Christmas in the Caribbean is characterized by cool winds – “The Christmas Breeze” - that blows in from North America adds to the Christmas mood. This mood is enhanced by the lush blooms of poinsettia and bougainvillea which creates natural red and white Christmas colors across the landscape. No matter how times are hard financially, people in the Caribbean maintain a peculiar happy, cheerful mood during the Christmas season. This is the natural, infectious spirit of Christmas in the Caribbean, a spirit that blended with the sound, music, and religious message of Christmas, makes those residing in the Diaspora yearn with nostalgia to return home every December.
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CHRISTMAS FEATURE
A Christmas/New Year's Message It is hard to believe that another year has passed and we are preparing to celebrate the Christmas Season once again. Of course, the Season symbolizes the spirit of hope, family, togetherness and rebirth. It is also a time for us to reflect on the year that has passed and to focus our minds and energies on the tasks that lie ahead for us as individuals, as a people and as a nation. This year, Jamaica celebrated its 55th year of Independence, which was observed under the theme: “Celebrating Jamaicans at home and abroad.” This theme recognizes that the strength of Jamaica lies in the talent, resilience and creativity of our people. Whether at “yawd” or “abrawd,” our people continue to rise above what may seem to be insurmountable challenges and continue to exert their influence at the global level. As part of the celebrations to mark this milestone year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade hosted the Jamaica 55 Diaspora Conference in Kingston, which served to reinforce the bonds of nationhood among Jamaicans across the globe and to highlight the areas for opportunity and collaboration with the Diaspora. For our part, the Consulate-General in Miami, has sought to foster a sense of community within the area under our jurisdiction, as Jamaicans overseas have a key role to play in ensuring that Jamaica becomes the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business. In this regard, I express sincere gratitude to the various Diaspora groups and individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Jamaica in diverse areas, including education, health, social programs, business development and the fight against crime. The ConsulateGeneral is committed to doing what we can to deepen this ongoing partnership during the coming year and beyond. On behalf of the staff of the Consulate-General of Jamaica at Miami, I convey best wishes for this Christmas Season and a New Year that is filled with countless blessings. One love!
Franz Hall
Franz Hall Consul General Of Jamaica In Miami
B3 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51
CHRISTMAS FEATURE
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51 –
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CHRISTMAS FEATURE
And The Most Popular Christmas Song Is...
21 % 20 % 13 % 11 % 9% 8% 5% 5% 4% 4%
Silent Night O Holy Night The Christmas Song Away in a Manger O Little Town of Bethlehem I’ll be Home for Christmas Mary’s Boy Child Jingle Bells White Christmas Little Drummer Boy
The other songs and carols just missing the top ten are: “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “Joy to The World” and “I saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.”
Wishing all of our customers Season’s Greetings and thanks for supporting us throughout 2017.
B5 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51
CHRISTMAS FEATURE
2017
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51 –
Life In Prison For Ninjaman Veteran Jamaican dancehall deejay, Ninjaman, was sentenced to life in prison on Monday, Dec. 18th, for the 2009 murder of Ricardo Johnson. Ninja Man, whose real name is Desmond Ballentine, must serve 25 years before he will be eligible for parole. He also received 20 years for the shooting with intent indictment. His son, Janiel Ballentine, and coaccused Dennis Clayton, were also slapped with life in prison for the murder. They will be eligible for parole in 15 years. The life sentences follow a unanimous guilty verdict from a seven member jury on
November 20th. When the sentenced was handed out, Ninjaman, gave the thumbs up. His attorney, Queen's Counsel Valerie NeitaRobertson, had earlier indicated the artist would be appealing the verdict. The three were accused of the murder of Ricardo Johnson, also known as “Trooper,” in March 2009. Ninjaman rose to prominence in the 1980s and during his career spanning more than 30 years, had several hits including his first titled “Cover Me,” featuring Tinga Stewart.
TT Court Orders Retrial Of Soca Stars
Ninjaman
St. Lucia Mourns Death Of Cultural Icon lover of St. Lucian culture – song, dance and traditional dress.” In 1990, Hall formed the island's premier dance group, The Helen Folk Dancers, and was also instrumental in establishing the first dance group at the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School. The former school teacher's contribution to national development included the organization of arts and cultural events such as the Primary School Quadrille Festival and the National Youth Pageant received the island's highest award, The Piton Gold Medal, (SLPM), in 1995, and the British Empire Medal (BEM), in 2007.
The government of St. Lucia is mourning the death of cultural icon Theresa Hall, who passed away on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017. Eighty-seven-year-old Hall died last week after a short illness. The government, in a statement, described Hall as a “true pioneer of culture,” adding that her “passion and commitment to culture and dance in particular, spans decades and has marked her as one of St. Lucia's premier cultural activists. The Cultural Development Foundation, (CDF), also extended condolences to Hall's family and said that the island had lost “a passionate and dedicated daughter” who was “a devoted
Popular soca stars Machel Montano and Kernel Roberts have been granted a retrial. Justices of Appeal Alice Yorke Soo Hon and Mark Mohammed on Friday, Dec. 15th, allowed the appeal by Montano and Roberts against their convictions and sentence stemming from a fracas outside the Zen nightclub in 2007. Both men had been convicted and fined in 2013 for assaulting a group of people outside the nightclub. In December 2012, Magistrate Maureen Baboolal-Gafoor found Montano guilty of assaulting Gerard Bowrin, Janelle Lee Chee, Brandis Browne and Russell Pollonais. Roberts was found guilty of assaulting Browne and Pollonais. Montano was ordered at the time to pay compensation totaling TT$13,500 and fines totaling TT$13,700, while Roberts was ordered to pay compensation totaling TT$11,000 and fines totaling TT$13,000.
Look Out For A Vinyl Of Stony Hill Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley is coming to vinyl in the New Year. The Grammy-winning reggae singer is set to release a LP of Stony Hill on January 19, 2018 on VP Reggae. Anticipation for the vinyl set is high, following the albums #1 debut on the Billboard Reggae Chart in July, as well as the albums recent GRAMMY® nomination of the CD and digital configurations. This is the first solo album of Damian Marley since 'Welcome To Jamrock.'
Theresa Hall
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B7 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR RUTH K. BROAD/ BAY HARBOR K-8 CENTER The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida (Board), intends to award one Construction firm for the following General Obligation Bond (GOB) project:
PROJECT NO. 01439400 RUTH K. BROAD/ BAY HARBOR K-8 CENTER CLASSROOM ADDITION AND RENOVATIONS 1155 93 STREET BAY HARBOR ISLANDS, FL 33154 BIDS DUE: Sealed bids will be received by The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, for the project listed herein, until 2:00 P.M. local time, Tuesday, February 6, 2018, at 1450 N.E. Second Avenue, Room 650, Miami, Florida, following which time and place, or as soon there-after as the Board can attend to the same, the said bids will be publicly opened, read and tabulated in Conference Room 321, Miami-Dade County School Board Administration Building, by an authorized representative of the Board. Award of the contract will be made to the lowest, pre-qualified responsible and responsive bidder for the actual amount bid considering base bid and accepted alternates (if any) as listed in the bidding documents. The Board will award the contract based upon the results of the tabulations as covered by applicable laws and regulations. Bidders desiring to participate in this solicitation must be pre-qualified by the Board prior to submitting their bid in response to this solicitation. Contact the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Office of Economic Opportunity at (305) 995-1307 for information regarding Contractors' Pre-qualification procedures. QUESTIONS: Written questions regarding this project will be accepted. All written communications must be sent to the Project Architect/Engineer, Daphne Gurri (dgurri@gurrimatute.com), Gurri Matute, 5001 S.W. 74 Court, Suite 208, Miami, Florida 33155. MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE (Ruth K. Broad/ Bay Harbor K-8 Center): Tuesday, January 9, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. local time, at the Ruth K. Broad/ Bay Harbor K-8 Center on 1155 93 Street, Bay Harbor Islands, Florida. There will be a sign-in period from 10:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Potential bidders arriving after the fifteen (15) minute sign-in period will not be allowed to participate in this solicitation. Proposals submitted by firms not represented at the Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will not be considered. BOARD POLICIES: Cone of Silence A Cone of Silence, pursuant to Board Policy 6325, shall commence with the issuance of this Legal Advertisement and shall terminate at the time the item is presented by the Superintendent to the appropriate Board committee immediately prior to the Board meeting at which the Board will award or approve a contract, reject all bids or responses, or take any other action that ends the solicitation and review process. Any violation of this rule shall be investigated by the Board's Inspector General and shall result in the disqualification of the potential applicant from the competitive solicitation process, rejection of any recommendation for award, or the revocation of an award to the vendor as being void, rendering void any previous or prior awards. The potential vendor or vendor's representative determined to have violated this rule, shall be subject to debarment. General questions regarding the legal advertisement will be sent to the Office of Capital Improvement Projects via email at ocip@dadeschools.net, and a copy filed with the Clerk of the School Board at celiarubio@dadeschools.net (or at 1450 NE 2nd Avenue, Room 311, Miami, Florida 33132), who shall make copies available to the public upon request. Lobbyist Lobbyist requirements, pursuant to Board Policy 8150, shall be applicable to this solicitation and all proposers and lobbyists shall strictly conform to, and be governed by, the requirements set forth therein. Contact the Clerk of the School Board for additional information. Vendor and Employment Preference Local-Vendor Preference, pursuant to Board Policy 6320.05, shall apply to this solicitation. Based on Board policy, Local Business means a vendor or business that has a valid business tax receipt, issued by a jurisdiction located in Miami-Dade County, that has either (1) its headquarters, manufacturing facility, or locally-owned franchise located within the legal boundaries of Miami Dade County, for at least twelve (12) months, or (2) has an office with a street address within the boundaries of Miami-Dade County for at least twenty-four (24) months, calculated from the bid or proposal opening date. Post office boxes are not verifiable and shall not be used for the purpose of establishing said physical address. In order to be considered for local preference, vendors must provide a copy of their business tax receipt and the Local Business Affidavit of Eligibility with their proposal. Proposers who fail to submit the required documents will not be considered for Vendor Preference. Jessica Lunsford Act The successful proposer(s) shall fully comply with the State of Florida's House Bill 1877 “Jessica Lunsford Act” (JLA); FS 1012.465, 1012.32, 1012.467 & 1012.468 and Board Policy 4121.01, Employment Standards and Fingerprinting of all Employees (also refer to Board Policy 8475). Ethics, Conflict of Interest and Anti-Fraud Proposers responding to this solicitation shall comply with the following ethics, conflict of interest and anti-fraud policies: - Board Policy 6460, Business Code of Ethics; - Board Policy 6460, Disclosure of Employment of Former School Board Employees; - Board Policy 8700, Anti-Fraud; and all related Board policies and procedures, as applicable Contractor Debarment Procedures Pursuant to Board Policy 6320.04, Contractor Discipline Procedures, debarred contractors are excluded from conducting business with the Board as agents, representatives, partners, and associates of other contractors, subcontractors or individual sureties. Commercial Anti-discrimination, Diversity, and Inclusion Proposers responding to this solicitation shall comply with the following anti-discrimination policies: - Board Policy 6465, Commercial Anti-discrimination, Diversity, and Inclusion (proposers shall be required to certify compliance with Board Policy 6465); - Board Policy 1362.02, 3362.02 and 4362.02, Anti-discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedure; and - all related Board policies and procedures, as applicable SMBE & M/WBE Programs SMBE & M/WBE Programs, in accordance with Board Policy 6320.02 and the “Small/Micro Business Enterprise Program Administrative Procedures Manual” Board-approved May 8, 2014, shall be applicable to this solicitation. Contact the Office of Economic Opportunity at 305-995-1307 or OEO@dadeschools.net for list of certified firms. Protest Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed and in the manner specified in Board Policy 6320 (Purchase Approval and Competitive Bidding Process Requirements) or in accordance with FS Section 120.57(3) shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under FS Chapter 120. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The proposer acknowledges that all information contained in their RFQ Response is part of public domain as defined by the State of Florida Sunshine Law. Therefore, any information received is subject to public inspection and copying in accordance with FS 119. No action on the part of the proposer would create an obligation of confidentiality on the part of the School Board including, but not limited to, making a reference in the RFQ Response to trade secrets FS 812.081 and 815.045. It is recommended that potential proposers exclude from their response any information that, in their judgment, may be considered a trade secret. Board policies, as amended from time to time, can be accessed and downloaded at: http://www.neola.com/miamidade-fl/. The successful proposer(s) shall fully comply with the State of Florida's House Bill 1877 “Jessica Lunsford Act” (JLA); FS 1012.465, 1012.32, 1012.467 & 1012.468 and Board Policy 4121.01, Employment Standards and Fingerprinting of all. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed and in the manner specified in Board Policy 6320 or in accordance with §120.57(3). Fla. Stat. (2014) shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes. Pre-qualified bidders may obtain a CD of the documents for construction at no cost or a full set of printed documents for construction at the bidder's expense from the office of Thomas Printworks, 5000 S.W. 75th Avenue, #114, Miami, Florida 33155, on and after December 18, 2017. OFFICE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY Assistance levels have been established at: Ruth K. Broad/ Bay Harbor K-8 Center: MBE/SBE Mandatory Subcontracting Goals: 25% Construction and 20% Local Work Force, within a 10-mile radius. Aspirational M/WBE Subcontracting Goals: 10% African American and 5% Women The Board reserves the right to waive informalities and to reject any and all bids. THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Alberto M. Carvalho Superintendent of Schools
NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51 –
St. Lucia launches Food & Rum festival St. Lucia has launched its Food & Rum Festival with Tourism Minister Dominic Fedee noting that the island had in the past invested heavily in the St. Lucia Jazz festival, which for many years became the island’s main tourism marketing event. Rum drinking people “We are historically a rum drinking people’, Fedee said at the press launch of the St. Lucia Food and Rum Festival, adding “I believe that rum gives our destination that platform to find expression and meaning in its authenticity, in its culture”. Fedee acknowledged that over the years, the main stakeholders had started shying away from the jazz festival forcing the island to reconsider its promotional strategy. “…We had to begin asking ourselves a very serious question and that question is: ‘Whether St. Lucia could afford to continue spending EC$14 million) on a festival which did little for publicity for the destination, or was it more of a cultural showpiece, or was it an event that was more targeted towards the Caribbean market?” Fedee said as a result, St. Lucia developed the “Soleil Summer Festival” with the Rum and Food Festival as one of the initiatives. “The intention still remains the same and it is within that effort and in keeping with that
goal to drum up publicity for us as a tourism destination,” Fedee said, adding that the Caribbean has been guilty of presenting itself as a destination of sun, sand and sea, but has neglected a lot of the other elements of the destination and “who we are as a people.” Fedee, a former Sandals Resorts public relations manager, recalled that when he worked in the hotel sector he used to ‘hate’ wine and cheese events, indicating that such events took away from “who we really are.” “We really are a rum-producing people and historically we really are a rum drinking people. and rum is a very proud and main part of our heritage, and this festival will better refine and leverage the tremendous asset that exists in
culture, in food and in showcasing to the world our heritage.” Fedee said that several international media outlets, including the New York Times and City TV from Canada, will be coming here to cover St. Lucia in a ‘new way’ informing their readers that St. Lucia is more than just a beach destination, but one that is very diverse, has soul, color and vibrant, interesting people. The St. Lucia Food and Rum Festival will take place from January 12-14, next year and among the highlight will be the inaugural Caribbean Rum Awards.
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Christmas Spirit from A1
The books and toys are being shared with students and families of Family Central, and Florida Palms Academy in Hollywood, FL, during their Christmas holiday treat for the student/residents. JWOF, along with other charitable organizations, recently fellowshipped at the St. Louis Catholic Church in Miami, FL, to support hurricane relief efforts in Dominica. JWOF handed over a donation check to support the efforts. This was made in consultation with US Caribbean Strong Foundation (Hurricane Relief Fund) set up to assist families in hurricane stricken areas in the Caribbean. In Cutler Ridge, South Miami-Dade, a group of Caribbean-Americans, led by Ruby and Dennis Sevrine, have been toiling since Hurricane Irma and Maria devastated Barbuda and Dominica to ”ensure folks, especially the kids, can still enjoy Christmas this year.” The group of about nine individuals has been collecting, toys, clothing, household items and non-perishable food to send off to these countries. “We are so pleased at the cooperation of people in South Florida to our efforts. This has been a real blessing this holiday season,” Dennis said. The giving spirit also covers Puerto Ricans in the region. The Lopez brothers, Juan and Pedro, and sister Jennifer, from West Kendall, have made three trips to their homeland since Hurricane Maria devastated that Caribbean island in September. “Our focus is to ensure we can bring cheer through even the simplest gift,” said Juan Lopez. “Even a balloon and a Christmas tree ornament donated to families and children on the island who lost everything, or almost everything during the storm, brings cheer. Many people still have no electricity, but whatever we can give to help these families light up their life. This we know, because we have seen it. Thanks be to God.”
B9 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
| THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51
Across 1. 4. 9. 12. 13. 14. 15.
16105
Last Week’s Answer
17. 18. 19. 21. 22. 23. 26. 29. 30. 32. 33. 35. 36. 37. 40. 42. 46. 47. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54.
Down
Little demon Nervous UN member Sandra _____ (“Gidget”) Overact Opposite of pos. Water under the Brooklyn Bridge (2 wds.) Water (Fr.) Verify Fiesta item _____ Plaines, Illionois Psychic Possessed Actor Kevin _____ Legendary boxer Meager Historic time Outstanding HST’s party Baby’s “piggies” Depot (abbr,) Points of debate Martial artist Chuck _____ _____ de Janeiro Big, hairy spider Increase Call forth Foxy Caspian _____ Copenhagen natives Snaky letter
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 16. 20. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 30. 31. 34. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 43. 44. 45. 48.
Mental image Vegetarian’s taboo Annoying person To the point Sends forth It follows Oct. New spouse’s boy Spookiest Unmerited Bench Water (Sp.) Senator _____ Kennedy Hair holder Possesses Bottom-row key Sugarless soft drink (2 wds.) Station wagon Before, poetically Battering _____ Rained ice Tapioca source Baseball’s _____ Gehrig Slithering reptile Pitches Skill Levin and Gershwin Flank Trick Misfortunes Declares Director _____ Howard
Last week’s answer
4 5 8 7 2 6 3 1 9
7 2 3 9 1 4 5 6 8
1 9 6 8 5 3 7 4 2
2 3 5 1 6 7 8 9 4
9 1 7 5 4 8 6 2 3
8 6 4 2 3 9 1 7 5
6 8 1 3 9 2 4 5 7
3 4 9 6 7 5 2 8 1
5 7 2 4 8 1 9 3 6
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51 –
22 Get A Shot At A Golden Ticket
Barbados Sprinter faces Doping Ban
A group of 22 soccer players from across the region have a shot at a golden ticket early next year - a Major League Soccer contract.
a two-year contract with Adidas. It was the first time that a Barbadian had signed a contract of this nature while still in school. Following the signing of the contract, the athlete declined several scholarship opportunities offered by colleges in the United States. “We have decided that Levi will be based at home,” said his mother, Destiny Cadogan. “The family has built a solid business foundation for him, which will allow him to focus his attention on his athletics rather than academics.” She said she was sure Levi would become a 'top class athlete' but to date, he had yet to live up to those expectations. His best performance at a global championship to date was an eighth-place finish in the semi-final at the 15th IAAF World Championships in Beijing, China. That same year he ran his personal best of 10.06.
Barbadian sprinter, Levi Cadogan, has reportedly tested positive for a banned substance and faces a possible two-year ban from the sport. It's reported that Cadogan, 22, the 2013 Carifta Under20 200-m bronze medalist, tested positive for Furosemide, a diuretic and masking agent. The athlete reportedly met with the National Anti-Doping Commission on Monday night after which he hinted at possible retirement. “Thank you, Barbados, I will miss the sport,” was posted on his Twitter page. Cadogan was seen as the next great sprinter from Barbados, following in the footsteps of Olympian Obadele Thompson. In 2014, while still a student, he signed
The almost two dozen players have been invited to participate in the 2018 MLS Caribbean Combine, which will take place from Jan. 9-11 at the Sawgrass Hotel and Suites Sports Complex in Fort Lauderdale. Players will compete in front of scouts for three days for the potential to be signed directly by an MLS club during an upcoming transfer window. The Caribbean Combine will lead into the 2018 adidas MLS Player Combine, which will be held from Jan. 11-17 in Orlando. Both Combines will be followed by the 2018 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas on Jan. 19th in Philadelphia. The full list of Caribbean Combine invitees are: 1. Oniel Anderson (Jamaica) 2. Maalique Foster (Jamaica) 3. Alex Marshall (Jamaica) 4. Jeff Beljour (Turks & Caicos) 5. Gilbert Tilus (Turks & Caicos) 6. Mazhye Burchall (Bermuda) 7. Thierry Catherine (Martinique) 8. Jonah Ebanks (Cayman Islands) 9. Kyle Edwards (St. Vincent & the Grenadines) 10. Djai Essed (St. Maarten) 11. Jules Haabo (French Guiana) 12. Hadan Holligan (Barbados) 13. Tyrique Lake (Anguilla) 14. Germain Hughes (Anguilla) 15. Andrez Joseph (Dominica) 16. Gylles Mitchel (Dominica) 17. Yohannes Mitchum (St. Kitts & Nevis) 18. Nickenson Paul (Aruba) 19. Na-jir Jacques Peney (Curacao) 20. Jamarlie Stevens (Antigua) 21. Kathon St. Hillaire (Trinidad & Tobago) 22. Josiah Trimmingham (Trinidad & Tobago)
Cadogan
Caribbean Fans Will Soon Have Access To UEFA Matches As of next summer, Caribbean sports fans will have access to every UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League match. Flow Sports and SportsMax are teaming up with the UEFA to bring some of the world's most exciting football matches to the region.
The matches will kick off in August 2018 with the 2018/19 European football season. Under the terms of this exciting new threeseason deal, Flow Sports and SportsMax will equally share all of the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League matches starting in August 2018 and for each season through to June 2021, ensuring
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C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY
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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51 –
Jamaica All-School Team Wins Annual Casa Youth Classic The Jamaica All-School team was victorious in the 8th Annual Casa Youth Classic. They beat Futsoc in the final on Sunday, Dec.17th at the Lauderhill Sport Park by 20. The six team tournament included Trinidad & Tobago, CASA U20 and Peru. The winners of each group contested the final. The 5-day tournament started on Wednesday, Dec. 14th. Casa U20, the previous year winners could only manage 3rd place this time around, beat out Trinidad and Tobago by 21 to secure the spot. It was the Jamaica all school team that most fans came out to see and they did not disappoint. Tyreek Magee the ace midfielder from Jamaica College was the MVP of the tournament. He scored the first goal in the final and ended the tournament on 3 goals and 3 assists. The leading goal scorer of the tournament was Richards from CASA U20 with 4 goals.
MVP winner Tyreek Magee receives his award from CASA Assist Director of Sports Maxine Dyers.
Bolt Part Of New Set Of Constellations Jamaican sprint legend, Usain Bolt, has been chosen to be one of the new set of constellations representing stars of sport, literature and science. A constellation is a group of stars, considered to form imaginary outlines or meaningful patterns on the celestial sphere, typically representing animals, mythological people or gods, mythological creatures, or manufactured devices. The new star alignments, created by researchers at The University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, are based on modern-day inspirational figures in a bid to get more children looking up to the stars and interested in the universe. The eight new constellations in the “Look Up to The Stars” project are the brainchild of The Big Bang Fair, a science education event for young people and astronomers at the University of Birmingham. The proposals include Harry Potter's glasses, a tennis racket for Serena Williams, a spaceship for astronaut Tim Peak, a blue whale for naturalist David Attenborough and a book in honour of Nobel-winner Malala Yousafzai. There are currently 88 existing constellations officially recognized by the International Astronomical Union. The new creations include well-known stars to make it easier to find them in the night sky, researchers said. Bolt, 31, who retired from track and field after the IAAF World Championships in Rio on August 12th after winning eight Olympic gold medals and 11 world titles, has cemented himself as the greatest sprinter of all time.
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| THURSDAY, DEC 21 – DEC 27, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 51
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