Caribbean National Weekly December 9, 2021

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 9, 2021

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Going Home for Christmas?

TOP STORIES Barbados PM Named UN’s 2021 ‘Champions of the Earth’

Jamaicans Get To Experience a “Normal” Christmas

by Sheri-Kae McLeod

Jamaicans will get to experience a somewhat normal Christmas Eve this year following new COVID-19 measures that were announced by Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Tuesday.

The curfew has been pushed back to 10 p.m. nightly until January 14. Exceptions to the curfew will be made on Christmas Eve- December 24th and New Years Eve - December 31st , when residents will

only be required to be indoors between the hours of 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

“How well we are able to maintain these hours really depend on how well people behave. It is not our intention to deprive people of enjoying the festivities of this season. I am of the view that the country has been under so much pressure, that people should be able to enjoy Christmas responsibly,” Holness said after announcing the new measures.

Sharing Holness's sentiments were scores of Jamaicans on social media, who said they were grateful for a much-needed break from the previous 9 PM curfew. continues on B4 – Home for Christmas

Miami Schools Superintendent to be Knighted by Spain

The curfew has been pushed back to 10 p.m. nightly until January 14. Exceptions to the curfew will be made on Christmas Eve- December 24th and New Years Eve - December 31st , when residents will only be required to be indoors between the hours of 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Former Haitian Gov’t Ofcial Says Kidnappers Are Better Equipped than Police

Argentina Donates COVID-19 Vaccines to Barbados

Former Prime Minister PJ Patterson Urges Jamaica to Achieve Republican Status by 2022

CWI Names West Indies Rising Stars U19 Squad for Upcoming Cricket World Cup

Andrew Holness and Leader of the Opposition Mr. Mark Golding, Jamaica's longest-serving prime minister urged both gentlemen to sit down and iron out the “single outstanding issue” that could present a challenge to Jamaica becoming a republican state.

The issue he said is “whether the incumbent [head of state] should be chosen by a two-third membership of both houses sitting separately or jointly.” Mr. Patterson advised both gentlemen that “one early Vale Royal meeting” between them could easily settle the issue.

US Based Frontier Airlines Launches Service to Antigua and Barbuda

By Patrick Green Former prime minister of Jamaica, PJ Patterson, has ignited the call for Jamaica to ditch the Queen as head of state and operate under a republican system of government by 2022. This comes a week after Barbados severed ties with the chief occupant of Buckingham Palace as their ceremonial head of state.

Next year will be Jamaica's 60th year of independence from Britain and Mr Patterson feels that the move will be “a truly historic landmark” for the country's Diamond Jubilee.

In a three-page letter obtained by Caribbean National Weekly to both Prime Minister

Jamaica's inclination to be a republic since 2002 Jamaica has shown an inclination to become a republic from as far back as 2002 according to Mr. continues on B4 – Republican Status

Nesta Carter Slapped With Four-Year Ban for Second Doping Violation

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

Should Usain Bolt Become a National Hero? A3

Barbados to Create Slavery Museum after Becoming a Republic A4

Shenseea Wins MOBO Award for Best Reggae Act B2

Reggae Boy Leon Bailey Suffers Fresh Injury Blow C1

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 9 – DEC 15, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness presents a proclama on to Dr. Requel Lopes, Execu ve Director at the World AIDS Museum and Educa onal Center in Fort Lauderdale during the County Commission mee ng on December 7, 2021. The proclama on designate December as AIDS Awareness Month in Broward County. – Contributed

Vice Mayor of Lauderhill Melissa Dunn and Commissioner Ray Mar n take a photo while a ending the Jazzin at St. George Park event on December 4, 2021. – Contributed

Elected officials par cipate in the tree-ligh ng event which took place in Fort Lauderdale on December 3, 2021, on Sistruck Boulevard. From le : Fort Lauderdale Commissioners Robert McKinzie and Steve Glassman and Lauderhill Commissioner Lawrence "Jabbow" Mar n. – Contributed

Jamaican-American Mayor of Miramar, Wayne Messam watches as students show off their inven ons at the Mayor Messam Avia on Expo, which featured Vex Robo cs and Broward Schools. The event took place at the Miramar Amphitheater at Regional Park on December 4, 2021. Photo: AJ Shorter Photography

Miss Jamaica Universe 2021 Daena Soares waves her Jamaican flag as she prepares to depart the island for the Miss Universe Compe on, scheduled to take place on December 12, 2021, in Eilat, Israel. – Contributed

Prime Minister Andrew Holness presents Elaine Thompson-Herah with a diploma c passport during a courtesy call at the Office of the Prime Minister on December 7, 2021. – Contributed

Lauderhill Commissioner Denise Grants (right) takes a photo with Prime Minister of Bahamas, Most Honorable Philip E. Davis, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and Mildred Murphy, during his recent visit to Fort Lauderdale. Prime Minister Davis was presented with the key to the city of Lauderhill. – Contributed

Miramar elected officials gather around the massive Christmas tree at the Miramar city hall to mark the start of the fes ve season. From le : Commissioners Maxwell Chambers and Winston Barnes, Mayor Wayne Messam, Vice Mayor Yve e Colbourne and Commissioner Alexandra Davis. – Contributed

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A3

NEWSMAKER

Usain Bolt: Fastest Man Alive, National Hero?

B

arbados announcing Rihanna as the island's 11th national hero last week has triggered conversations in Jamaica as to when the island will update its list of seven national heroes. This is an annual debate in Jamaica, which usually takes place in October, around National Heroes Day. The names that usually dominate the debate are Bob Marley, and to a lesser extent, Louise Bennett-Coverley.

Rihanna is only one of two living national heroes in Barbados. The other is cricket great, Sir Garfield Sobers, who is arguably one of the best cricketers to ever play the game.

The debate about living heroes, has pushed Usain Bolt - undoubtedly the greatest sprinter the world has ever seen - into the national hero spotlight.

The beloved sprinter captured the hearts of sports fans around the world in 2008 when he set a new 100 metres world record of 9.72s, erasing fellow Jamaican sprinter, Asafa Powell's record of 9.74.

Bolt then ascended to heights of sports super-stardom, leading Jamaican track and field for a decade. Not only did he dominate the sport for a number of years, but he was also the fan-favorite in all sprinting events, with his impressive displays of humility and charm that made him one of the most loved sports personalities of this generation.

As an eight-time Olympic gold medalist and an eleven-time World champion, he is widely regarded as the greatest sprinter in the history of

As an eight-time Olympic gold medalist and an eleven-time World champion, he is widely regarded as the greatest sprinter in the history of track and field. The beloved sprinter captured the hearts of sports fans around the world in 2008 when he set a new 100 metres world record of 9.72s.

Bolt

track and field.

At the 2017 World Championships, Bolt closed the curtains on his track and field career after finishing third in the men's 100m. His absence has left a void in track and field, and in particularly, Jamaican track and field, as the local athletic industry now struggles to find the spark, inspiration and motivation

that Bolt provided to the local athletes during his active years.

Behind Michael Phelps, Bolt currently holds the second-highest number of accumulative Guinness World Records in sports, with a total of 19 records. Three years after his retirement and he is still the world record holder in the 100 metres, 200 metres and 4 × 100 metres relay. And

while there has been much debate on the next sprinter that will eventually break his records, there will certainly never be another Usain Bolt.

Many expected him to slow down after his retirement from Athletics, but Bolt only expanded his scope, dabbling in new ventures and pursuing his other passions.

In 2018, the avid football fan trained with Australian football club, Central Coast Mariners of the ALeague. He made his friendly debut for the club as a substitute in August 2018. In October 2018, Bolt was offered a contract by the Mariners but later decided that he would not pursue a career in football.

His latest passion project involves being a music producer. Bolt has long been a fan of reggae and Dancehall music, and in July 2019, he announced his first riddim, titled Olympe Rosé, that featured 5 tracks from Jamaican dancehall artistes.

Since then, he has released several dancehall riddims and plans to produce music from other regional genres like Soca.

Usain has also taken advantage of other opportunities, through his

partnerships with G.H. Mumm Champagne, Hublot Jewelry and Digicel Jamaica, and his entrepreneurial endeavours like Bolt Mobility and the Tracks and Records restaurant.

He has also given back to Jamaica through his Usain Bolt Foundation. Since the start of the pandemic, Bolt has regularly distributed laptops, tablets and other school supplies to Jamaican students and teachers, especially those living in rural Jamaica. He has also invested in a major Business Process Outsourcing center in Kingston. The call center will provide jobs to thousands of young Jamaicans once it is completed.

As busy as he is, Usain has also made time to expand his family. In June 2021, the 34-year-old announced that his longtime girlfriend, Kasi Bennett, had welcomed twin boys, Saint Leo and Thunder. The couple also has a daughter, Olympia - born in 2020.

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A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 9 – DEC 15, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN Opposition Party Scores Win in Tobago Elections

Barbados to Create Slavery Museum After Becoming A Republic Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amor Mottley has announced the creation of the Barbados Heritage District – an area that will include a memorial, a major global research institute, and a museum located in Newton Plantation just on the outskirts of Bridgetown.

In making the announcement on Saturday, Mottley said that this will be dedicated to accurately recounting the historic and contemporary impact of slavery on Barbados and on the lives of individuals, cultures, and nations of the Western hemisphere.

The Prime Minister added that the District's research institute will document Barbados' pivotal role as the harrowing portal through which millions of enslaved Africans

Duke

continues on A8 – Slavery Museum

COVAX Facility Orders St. Vincent to Pay for Vaccines It Donated to Trinidad COVAX Facility, the worldwide initiative aimed at equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines, has ordered St Vincent and the Grenadines to pay US$70,000 for COVID-19 vaccines that it donated to Trinidad and Tobago in May. The government donated 5,000 doses of AstraZeneca to Port of Spain amidst a spike in cases there and as the vaccines were at risk of expiring because of low uptake in St Vincent.

However, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves revealed last week that the COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) said his government should have returned the vaccines instead of giving them away.

“COVAX said to us what we gave to Trinidad, we should not have done so, we should have

given them back and they would give whoever they want. I think they had somewhere else they wanted to give them – not in the Caribbean. We gave them to Trinidad so we will have to pay for those. It's about US$70,000,” he disclosed.

Gonsalves said that when his Trinidad counterpart, Dr. Keith Rowley, heard about the development, the government offered to pay for the vaccines.

“I said, 'No. No. No. No. No. We gave you.'

So we have to organize — I believe the payment has been made already, the US$70,000 to COVAX because if we are getting now through the US, I don't want to have any indebtedness to COVAX,” Gonsalves said.

“We are a people of solidarity; that's how we

function. Social solidarity, regionally, globally and nationally. Love thy neighbor as you love yourself. Trinidad has been very generous to us in many, many ways. I can't give you that and ask you to pay for it. Absolutely not. That ain't how we stop. We nah stop so,” the Prime Minister insisted.

Back in May, Trinidad's government had imposed a state of emergency due to a rise in COVID-19 cases. Rowley has said he came to the realization that he was seeing a “population that is scared”.

Trinidad also got caught vaccine donations from the United States, which pledged to share millions of doses with countries around the world.

The opposition Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) has won the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections that political observers say will have implications for the future relationship between Trinidad and Tobago in the future.

The PDP routed the ruling People's National Movement (PNM) that had been in office for the past 21 years.

Preliminary results from Monday night's polls show that the PDP led by trade unionist, Watson Duke, has won at least 12 of the 15 seats in the THA and the PNM Tobago Council leader, Tracy Tracy Davidson-Celestine, who was vying to become the first woman Chief Secretary also lost.

The incumbent chief secretary Ancil Dennis, was also a casualty of the poll that followed the inconclusive results in January when both parties won six seats in the then 12-member THA. The seats were increased so as to prevent a re-occurrence of the situation and in an immediate reaction to the results, PDP deputy leader, Farley Augustine, who is expected to be the new chief secretary, said the results should be viewed in the context of the move to gain self-determination from Trinidad. continues on B4 – Tobago Elections

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Talk Up!

TALKUP

Is Joe Biden Doing A Good Job As President So Far? In January 2021, Joe Biden took office as the 46th president of the United States, inheriting a country battling the worst virus outbreak in a century, along with racial tension and immigration issues. President Biden promised, like all other Presidents before him, to work assiduously to correct these issues.

Almost a year into his Presidency, and there has already been major moves like a sweeping vaccine mandate, withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan, a hate crimes bill, and most recently, the mass expulsion of migrants at the border. With all that has happened in the United States in 2021, we asked some of our readers if they think that President Biden is doing a good job so far. Here are the responses: Diane Harris: Months ago, 63% of us Democratic Americans approved of our President Joe Biden's great performance. As we continue to advance closer to the one year mark, many of us have changed our minds based solely on his decisions related to the vaccine mandate, Afghanistan and now the immigration status and the effects on the Haitians seeking refuge in America. Yes, I'm human and taking into consideration his "failures". I would be among those who would consider his performance so far, poor.

But, in order to give a honest opinion, I must take a look at the man himself. He is in his first year as President and cleaning up the dirt left behind. It is not an overnight change. He is required to improve incrementally. If he was continually on a high, I would be concerned. He's going to grow a lot more gray hair before it's over. Is he doing a good job you ask, what is good? Good is relative, let's give the man a chance just like we did for Donald Trump.

Ludnie Joseph: I feel as though he's doing the best he can given the circumstances the nation was left in after the Trump administration. Here's the thing, presidents aren't people-pleasers, they strive to meet the needs of the people but inevitably it is impossible to do so. Unfortunately, they look like the bad guys because they can't deliver or succumb to promises they made in the heat of running for office. There are many factors involved. None could have predicted the resurgence of the pandemic. These are unpredictable times.

Jonathan Bateman: This is America. Mandates should be decided by 2/3 branches of government.

Not one man. Biden can appear to be hypocritical at times. He initially said he didn't believe in any mandate and now he's issuing them left and right. I just feel sorry for the millions of people being torn between the two sides. This doesn't affect me though but I can imagine how it affects others who maybe indecisive.

Sabrina Foster: Overall I believe that Biden and his administration is doing a fine job. They are under a lot of pressure with all that's going on at the border, natural disasters, and the political affairs in Afghanistan. Right now as a nation we need to not focus on if he's doing a good job, but come together to rectify the issues at hand. We are living in unprecedented times. To judge his performance relative to other presidents is unfair given the situation he is now up against.

Tony Garcia: Losing a war undermines the public's trust in any leader. But the setback causing the most damage to Joe Biden's political standing likely isn't the U.S. military defeat in Afghanistan—it's the frustrating home-front struggle against the resurgent coronavirus pandemic. He had much to say before the election about his plans to battle the pandemic.

He built his campaign on that and we are waiting to see how he handles the resurgence going forward.

Shirley Seivright: Everybody's into Biden as a savior but I am not quite sure Joe Biden even knows what he's doing. I don't think he's necessarily doing a good job. It appears he has an agenda for pushing the vaccine in a very subtle manner so I'm not comfortable with Joe Biden. He's definitely doing a much better job than Donald Trump. He's a more decent person in terms of certain things. Beneath the scene, I am just fearful that there is some thing that is going to occur that will shake the nation. That's how I honestly feel right now.

A5

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A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 9 – DEC 15, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

EDITORIAL

Medical Marijuana Can be Sweeter than Sugar Cane for the Caribbean F or over three centuries and more so after the end of slavery, Caribbean countries depended on sugar cane and its derivatives to sustain its economies. With rich soil and an agricultural labor force, countries exchanged the “sweet” sugar grains for the “sweet dollars.” Billions of dollars were earned from sugar exports and the Caribbean people, whether they worked the fields, in the factories or supply the cane, benefitted.

Today, sugar has lost its sweetness to the Caribbean people. There is no more preferential market status in Europe, where the Caribbean once supplied 80 to 90 percent of the need. The United States also ended its preferential quota treatment years ago. And along with the depression in sugar prices, competition from Central and South America, and inefficiencies in production, it is no longer wise economically to invest in sugar factories and sugar cane cultivation.

According to the World Bank, between 1991 and 2001, 13 Caribbean countries produced 1.24 billion tons of sugar, using 31.4 percent of cropland.

With factory closings taking place in most Caribbean countries, it means that there are good, fertile lands available for viable economic cultivations.

Now is the time for the Caribbean governments to act with haste and grab another sensational opportunity to enrich its people, improve their quality of life and allow them to enjoy a high standard of living while helping to solve a myriad of health problems. Enter the production of medical marijuana.

Worldwide, the medical marijuana market is projected to reach $197.74 billion by 2028, according to fortunebusinessinsights.com. The North American Market which accounts for the bulk of the economic value and usage, stood at 5.994 billion in 2018 and is estimated to reach 24.578 billion by 2026. This worldwide growth is precipitated by the “increasing application of cannabis for a myriad of medical conditions,” the report said. And with the US population getting older and older, the need for pain relief medicines provides justification for growth in the region.

Some Caribbean countries have seen the light and are moving towards it.

British Virgin Islands is giving its citizens lands to cultivate the “weed.” Last year Barbados began issuing licenses for marijuana cultivation while St Vincent approved their first license in 2019. Of all the Caribbean countries acting or considering the value of the “herb,” Jamaica has taken the most advanced actions. The country now has in place the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA), a government agency tasked with administering the licensing, cultivation, production and sale of medical marijuana.

Chairman of CLA, LeVaughn Flynn, said: “The question we have to ask ourselves in Jamaica is what piece of that pie do we want?” “Even if Jamaica has a small part of that pie, it can have a tremendous impact not only on our economy but our public health as well,” he said.

Mr. Flynn could not be righter. The value of medical marijuana has been

proven in many countries and in particular, the United States. The leading beneficiary in the US is Colorado. In 2019 the state collected over $302 million in taxes and fees. A report from Colorado State University, found that the industry contributed over $80.8 million to the local economy in 2017.

Currently, twenty-nine states and Washington DC have legal marijuana laws.

There is little doubt that this will increase in quick time.

The business of medical marijuana also provides jobs in nurseries, dispensaries, factories, farms, and in governments. The industry provides investment opportunities for local citizens as well as the injection of foreign direct investments (FDI), when foreign companies seek partnerships to take advantage of opportunities. And of course, the legalization for medicinal use, will reduce the cost associated with control and enforcement while it is illegal.

Not to mention the effect on illegal traders who may no longer have a viable market for those in need. This benefit will certainly have a positive effect on crime and violence when drug pushers have less money to acquire guns and ammunition to kill others.

But while the economic benefits are very important, governments should also look at how they are impacting the lives of their citizens and others abroad.

Studies show that the use of medical marijuana can have benefits for a long list of conditions. These include:

• • • • • • • • •

Alzheimer's disease Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) HIV/AIDS Crohn's disease Epilepsy and seizures Glaucoma Multiple sclerosis and muscle spasms Severe and chronic pain Severe nausea or vomiting caused by cancer treatment

The covid pandemic has decimated the economies of every Caribbean country. Getting out of this economic precipice, will require creativity, innovation and decisive action. While many Caribbean governments are still talking about having “another meeting” to “discuss” medical marijuana, other places are taking advantage of the opportunity. We believe, that if done right, the benefits of medical marijuana could be even “sweeter” than those provided by sugar cane.

Over thirty countries have seen and grabbed the opportunity including The Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Norway, Germany, Italy, and Greece, Israel, Canada, Switzerland, Mexico, Argentina, and Australia. We implore our governments to act now and take advantage of this emerging industry.

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A7

la section haitienne

US Religious Group says Haitian Gang has Released 3 Hostages A religious group based in Ohio announced Monday that a violent gang in Haiti has released three more hostages, while another 12 remain abducted.

The statement from Christian Aid Ministries said the people were released on Sunday in Haiti and are “safe and seem to be in good spirits.” The group provided no further details.

On Nov. 21, the religious organization announced that the 400 Mawozo gang had released the first two hostages of a group of 17 kidnapped in mid-October. There are 12 adults and five children in the group of 16 U.S. citizens and one Canadian, including an 8-month-old.

The leader of the 400 Mawozo gang has threatened to kill the hostages unless his demands are met. Authorities have said the gang was seeking $1 million per person, although it wasn't immediately clear that included the children in the group.

“We are thankful to God that three more hostages were released last night,” said the statement from Christian Aid Ministries, an Anabaptist missions organization based in Berlin, Ohio. “As with the previous release, we are not able to provide the names of the people

released, the circumstances of the release, or any other details.”

The group reiterated its request for supporters to devote Monday through Wednesday as days of prayer and fasting “to intercede for those who are still being held as well as those who have been released.”

The release comes amid an ongoing spike in kidnappings in the capital of Port-au-Prince and elsewhere in Haiti, which is struggling to recover from the July 7 presidential assassination, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck in mid-August and a severe fuel shortage.

On Sunday, a gang leader known as “Ti Lapli” posted a YouTube video warning people not to cross in upcoming days through the Martissant community, which has been the site of violent clashes between warring gangs.

“Insecurity has increased,” the gang leader said. “I invite the people of Martissant to stock up on food and gasoline. The next few days will be difficult... We will not remain with our arms crossed in face of those who try to destroy us.”

Haiti to Improve Food Security with IDB's Support The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved US$60 million of nonreimbursable financing to improve the food security of rural households, including farmers, fishers, seafood merchants, and rural workers of Haiti.

It said the project will promote rural productivity and connectivity to rural markets and will be co-financed with US$18.3 million from the Global Agriculture and Food Security Programme (GAFSP).

The agriculture, fisheries, and rural infrastructure activities proposed in the program will increase productivity and income while promoting the sustainable management of the

critical resources on which rural beneficiaries depend.

The program will support farmers' adoption of agricultural technologies through technical assistance, improving food availability through increased production, and food access through higher agricultural revenues.

The IDB said a menu of agricultural technologies has been developed based on their food security relevance, climate adaptation potential, and the environmental sustainability of different crops. Farmers will have the option to choose among these technological packages.

This component includes actions specifically targeted to women and youth participation, with

packages targeted to women's activities to be included in the menu.

The program will also support around 65 fisher and merchant associations to adopt sustainable practices that will improve fishers' food security through improved productivity while ensuring the sustainability of marine resources. These associations will also be able to acquire boats, engines, fish conservation, and processing equipment through a matching grant mechanism.

“Finally, through its rural infrastructure component, the project aims to improve road accessibility and decrease transportation costs, production losses and increase access to markets

through the rehabilitation of rural roads.

“It will also invest in climate-resilient public infrastructure, including fish landing infrastructure and fish markets, and technical assistance to local government and fishers' associations to ensure sustainable operations and the proper maintenance of fishing facilities,” the bank said, adding that the program is aligned with the IDB's Vision 2025, which prioritizes social inclusion and equality, productivity and innovation, economic integration, and resilience to climate change. The funds will be disbursed over a five-year period, starting in 2022,' the IDB added.

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 9 – DEC 15, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

COMMUNITY

M-DCPS Warns: School Threats Will Result in Arrests Since the beginning of the 20212022 school year, the MiamiDade Schools Police Department (MDSPD) has investigated 40 threats involving our schools and made six arrests. Half of those incidents have taken place within the last week.

The district says hoax threats have seriously disrupted the schools' educational environment and interfered with police officers' ability to protect schools from real dangers.

“Our Schools Police Department will continue to collaborate with federal and local law enforcement partners and the State Attorney's office to investigate and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law all individuals

associated with threats against our schools,” said Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho.

“Hoax or not, there will be short- and longterm consequences that will leave indelible marks on the lives of these individuals.”

On average, it takes 24 hours from start to finish, spread over a three-day work period, to investigate these cases and determine their validity. Simpler cases can be resolved over an 8hour period with one detective, while others can take more than 40 hours and require several detectives and the involvement of external police and criminal justice agencies.

The District is reminding the public that anyone making such a threat will likely be identified; a written threat to kill or harm is a felony that will not be tolerated; and perpetrators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

“We investigate every threat, including pranks, with extreme vigor,” said Miami-Dade Schools Police Chief Edwin Lopez. “These threats wreak havoc for the entire school community. We urge parents and guardians to speak to their children about the importance of acting responsibly and how negative actions can lead to life-altering repercussions.”

Arrests have a lasting impact on students' futures. A federal charge could be included, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. Even if federal charges are not warranted, state charges may be considered.

Several years ago, the School Board approved an item endorsing the FBI's Education Awareness Campaign, #ThinkBeforeYouPost, on the consequences of posting hoax threats on social media regarding schools and other public places.

Funeral service for former Congresswoman Carrie Meek held in Miami Gardens A funeral and homegoing celebration was held Tuesday for former Congresswoman Carrie Meek in Miami Gardens. The service began at 11 a.m. at the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.

Meek, the grandchild of a slave and a sharecropper's daughter who became one of the first Black Floridians elected to Congress since Reconstruction, died last week at age 95.

Prior to the funeral service, her family took part in a motorcade procession in Miami, “the Carrie Meek Final Farewell Journey,” that passed by key landmarks associated with her life.

Meek began her congressional career at an age when many people retire. She was 66 when she easily won the 1992 Democratic congressio-

nal primary in her Miami-Dade County district, as one of the first African-Americans from Florida to win a seat in Congress.

In 2003, due in part to health issues, Meek left Congress to make room for her son Kendrick Meek.

“She's home now,” her son told those gathered for a memorial service for his mother on Sunday.

“She loved to have fun and she loved a good time and she was brilliant,” he said. “We as a family are just extremely proud of the example that she left with us here still in this community of how to live and how to serve.”

The service was open to the public, and the wake and funeral service will be as well.

Numerous elected officials attended to pay their respects.

At the Broward County Commission meeting on Tuesday, Commissioner Dale Holness also paid tribute to Meek. He designated December 7, 2021 as Carrie Meek Remembrance Day in Broward County.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Carrie Meek Foundation, which she founded in November 2001 to provide the Miami-Dade community with much-needed resources, opportunities and jobs. Meek led the Foundation's daily operations until 2015 when she stepped down due to declining health.

Slavery Museum

from A4

were forced to the Americas.

“In the wake of Barbados' transition to the Parliamentary Republic, the Barbados Heritage District will also serve as a cornerstone and catalyst for the ongoing development of Barbados' independent identity, culture, and place on the world stage.”

The Prime Minister also announced that David Adjaye has been commissioned to design the Barbados Heritage District.

The first phase of the project will be the Newton Enslaved Burial Ground Memorial, a monument to the nation's enslaved ancestors that will serve as a place of remembrance, honoring those individuals impacted by the effects of forced migration.

Located at the Newton Burial Ground, the memorial will provide the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual framework for the scholarly research and public programs that the future center will generate.

Upon completion, it will be the first research institute and resource center of global stature based in the Caribbean dedicated to exploring the history and enduring impact of slavery and forced migration on the world.

The groundbreaking is slated for November 30, 2022, on the first anniversary of Barbados' status as the Parliamentary Republic.

The development of the Barbados Heritage District will support significant job growth in new industries, technologies, and construction sectors.

The District is being developed in partnership with the Prime Minister's Office, the Barbados Archives Department, and the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, who are working in collaboration with a team of Barbadian scholars, spearheaded by Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 9 – DEC 15, 2021 –

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COMMUNITY

US Tightens Travelers' Testing Requirements

Miami Schools Superintendent to be Knighted

by Spain

Carvalho

The Biden administration has tightened testing requirements for international travelers to the U.S., including both vaccinated and unvaccinated people, amid the spread of the new omicron variant of the coronavirus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that they will now require that all air travelers to the U.S. be tested for COVID-19 within a day before boarding their flight. The new requirement takes effect on December 6, 2021.

The move comes just weeks after the U.S. largely reopened its borders to fully vaccinated foreign travelers on Nov. 8 and instituted a two-tiered testing system that allowed fully vaccinated travelers more time to seek a pre-arrival test, while

requiring a test within a day of boarding for the unvaccinated.

“CDC is working to modify the current Global Testing Order for travel as we learn more about the Omicron variant; a revised order would shorten the timeline for required testing for all international air travelers to one day before departure to the United States,” the agency said last week.

Much remains unknown about the new variant, which has been identified in more than 20 countries, including whether it is more contagious, whether it makes people more seriously ill, and whether it can thwart the vaccine. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease expert, said more would be

known about the omicron strain in two to four weeks as scientists grow and test lab samples of the virus.

As he sought to quell public concern about the new variant, President Joe Biden said that in his Thursday remarks, “I’ll be putting forward a detailed strategy outlining how we’re going to fight COVID this winter — not with shutdowns or lockdowns but with more widespread vaccinations, boosters, testing, and more.”

Asked by reporters if he would consult with allies about any changes in travel rules, given that former President Donald Trump had caught world leaders by surprise, Biden said, “Unlike Trump I don’t shock our allies.”

The superintendent for Miami-Dade County schools is being knighted by Spain for his work in expanding Spanish-language programs.

Superintendent Alberto Carvalho will be admitted into the Order of Isabella the Catholic, an honor given to people whose work contributes to Spain and its culture. The knighthood will be awarded on behalf of King Felipe VI of Spain by Miami’s Spanish Consul General Jaime Lacadena on Dec. 13 at his home.

Born and raised in Portugal, Carvalho leads Florida’s largest school district in a county where seven out of 10 people are Hispanic.

“I am deeply humbled by this recognition for it acknowledges our ongoing commitment to expanding access to dual-language programs across our community,” the Miami schools superintendent said in a statement.

Along with being named the 2018 National Urban Superintendent of the Year, Carvalho has received honors from Portugal and Mexico.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 9 – DEC 15, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

ENTERTAINMENT

Shenseea Wins MOBO Award for Best Reggae Act International dancehall artiste Shenseea won the 2021 Music Of Black Origin (MOBO) Award for Best Reggae Act during the awards ceremony held in London on Sunday.

The MOBO Awards is lauded as the UK’s biggest celebration of black music and culture. Shenseea is the first female artist to win the Reggae Award since its inception in 1996.

MOBO Awards made an announcement via their official Instagram page, saying “Huge congratulations on @shenseea for winning BEST REGGAE ACT…” Shenseea also thanked the awards' committee for her win.

Also sending congratulations on her historic win were several of her musical peers including Sean Paul, PopCaan, Beenie Man, and American rapper Juicy J. The other nominees in the category this year were Skillibeng, Popcaan, Sean Paul, Spice and Lila Iké. Buju Banton won the title at last year’s awards.

The 25-year-old singer is set to release her debut studio album in early 2022, under Rvssian’s Rich Immigrants label (a joint venture with Interscope Records). Shenseea is also up for her first Grammy award, following her two features on Kanye West’s Donda album, which is nominated for Album of the Year.

Shenseea

Grenadian Reggae Star A#keem Debuts 'True Story'

By Ramona Samuels Grenadian Reggae crooner A#keem has released his six-track debut EP titled, 'True Story'. The album, which features the hits 'Big Shot' and 'Stay', is available for digital download and purchase on popular streaming platforms; Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, YouTube Music, Napster, and iTunes.

The melodic masterpiece of feel-good songs and bounce-worthy beats, embodies all the elements of cross-over-worthy material. On the first track from the album, 'Thinking Bout You', the songwriter displays his affection for his love interest on an R&B-inspired, pop beat. The very appealing harmonies blend perfectly with the synced instrumentals propelling the song's

A#keem

attractive layout.

“This journey began in the midst of Grenada's second wave of Covid-19, sometime in July 2021, while secluded in my creative space, I decided to compile my thoughts, talents, and knowledge of music production acquired during this Covid-19 era, along with previously

recorded material, to share as an expression of myself, the individual, coping with these strange times.”

The satisfying sparkle and change of the guitar on track two's, 'Stay', featuring Direman, is enough for the listener to anticipate that the song will be a quick and easy, ear-pleasing composition of emotions, mixed with interesting storytelling.

A#keem whose real name is Ahkeem David Abraham, uses his music to uplift his fellow countrymen, and has developed an approach of thought-provoking instances to drive the messages in his music. His soulful and deeply felt tone has made him a respected household name in Grenada, poised for international reggae-fused stardom.

Caribbean Food & Rum Festival Brings A Taste of the Islands to Florida on Dec. 12 The Caribbean Food & Rum Festival will offer South Florida residents a taste of the most delicious Caribbean cuisine on Sunday, December 12, at the Hollywood ArtsPark at Young Circle in Florida.

As one of South Florida's largest celebration of Caribbean-American heritage, attendees at this year's Caribbean Food and Run Festival can island-hop among Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad, the Bahamas, Belize, Grenada and Haiti as they indulge in all things Caribbean – food, rum, cocktails, music, arts and crafts – at this familyfriendly event featuring plenty of photo opportunities.

“We are thrilled to welcome visitors and locals to join us in celebrating the beautiful Caribbean culture found here in Greater Fort Lauderdale, where we welcome everyone under the sun,” said Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Celebrated chefs bring mouthwatering dishes from Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas and Trinidad to Festival goers. Among them is celebrity chef Maurice who has been featured on Food Network's “Chopped” and has been recognized with the 2021 Chef Award from the National Black Chef Association. Chef Maurice will serve up conch salad shots, lobster fritters with rum cream sauce and guava duff bites. Foodies will also enjoy Caribbean specialties and fusion cuisine from other renowned chefs and a curated selection of eateries.

“Greater Fort Lauderdale has a strong Caribbean community, and we're excited to bring this experiential festival for everyone to enjoy authentic Caribbean flavors and entertainment in our inclusive, tropical paradise,” said Lindell Douglas, president and CEO of Caribbean Village Entertainment.

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

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CONTINUATION

Tobago Elections

Home for Christmas from A4

“Let this win be a strong message that Tobago has rejected your incomplete autonomy bill and we demand more. Let this be a resounding message, a strong message that we have rejected your notion that we are only good enough to earn TT$200 million per year and we must resort to be beggars of the national purse.

“Let this be a strong message Mr. prime Minister that we in Tobago have rejected your bullying tactics and that the kind of bullying that is part of the political culture in Trinidad is not welcome in Tobago,” Augustine said.

Earlier this year, the government was forced to send the legislation aimed at improving the socio-economic and political relationships between Trinidad and Tobago back to a joint select committee of Parliament after opposition legislators failed to provide the necessary support for the measure.

The government, with 22 members, needed a special three-fourths majority or 31 legislators to approve of the “The Constitution (Amendment) (Tobago Self Government) Bill, 2020 Augustine said Tuesday that he was open to working with Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, who is from Tobago, on improving relations between the two islands.

“And so Mr. Prime Minister even before we get to Thursday's swearing-in, I want to say to you that I hope we can have a cordial relationship because the country must come before party and country must come before self.

“I urge you do not spite Tobago because the Tobagonians I know are mighty enough to get rid of you. Let that be a warning that you ought to respond to us in a dignified manner and that we are willing to work with you to see this island develop. We have been behind …to long, our development parameters have not worked for far too long and it has to work from henceforth,” Augustine added.

But in a statement posted on his Facebook page, Prime Minister Rowley said “once again, the people of Tobago have gone to the polls, as required, and have taken part in free and fair elections, cementing our position that in this nation democracy is very much alive and well taken care of:”.

He said the results have clearly indicated that the people of Tobago, on this occasion, have opted for change.

“The People's National Movement, having managed the affairs of Tobago for 21 years, unbroken, must thank the people of Tobago for the many occasions when you would have entrusted us with the responsibility for your care, attention and development.

“On this occasion when we have been replaced, even in disappointment, we commit to continue to be of service to all the people of Tobago, remain resolute in our support of the further development of the island and the improvement in the quality of life of all Tobagonians.”

Rowley said that the various campaigns held out various clear positions to the people and the winning party, the Progressive Democratic Patriots, now has a clear mandate to stand by the commitments it held out to the population of Tobago.

“The PNM and the Central Government will continue to respect the wishes of the people of Tobago and will do all that is within its capacity and responsibility to ensure that Tobago progresses within the administration of Trinidad and Tobago as required by the existing laws and our common pursuit of national development,” he added.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad Bissessar has extended “congratulations to Tobago for choosing new leaders to help chart a course towards a future for sustainable opportunities and transformation for all in Tobago”.

She congratulated Duke, Augustine and the PDP “on your resounding victory.”

Persad Bissessar's United National Congress (UNC), had been supportive of the PDP in the election.

“It's so great. Cause now I can spend more time out with my kids and family, especially now when it's Christmas time which is family season,” wrote Shane Wibley.

“Its a good move. People need to go get vaccinated. Its the only way forward. We cannot continue like this. Schools need to be open and we need to get back to normal,” said Sara Chambers.

It's been two years since Jamaicans at home, and even those living in the diaspora who go home for the holidays, have experienced a normal Jamaican Christmas. In 2020, due to COVID-19, the tradition of Grand Market—a Christmas Eve shopping event, which takes place into the wee hours of Christmas morning, was canceled. Prime Minister Holness had also asked members of the diaspora to reconsider coming home for the holidays because of the threat of the virus.

But this year, Christmas in Jamaica will be quite different than last year. The island is already seeing an uptick in travel ahead of the holidays, despite the new one-day testing requirement imposed by the United States. The Jamaica Tourist Board reported that Jamaica's hotel occupancy and airline capacity are currently outpacing the global average. The

The Constitutional Requirement In satisfying the constitutional requirements to amend the “deeply entrenched provisions,” Mr. Patterson said that section 49 allows: “A period of three months between the introduction of the bill and the commencement of the first debate on the whole text of the bill in the house, and a further period of three months between the conclusion of that debate and its passage.” According to section 49(ii) he said, “the bill has to be submitted not less than two months nor more than six months after its passage through both houses to the electorate.” This according to him “means a referendum.”

Of the eight referendums held to decide the fate of the queen, only three have been successful: Ghana, South Africa

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island is also now leading the world in terms of demand by travelers searching for destinations, according to Travel Agent Central.

With a new COVID-19 variant on the rise, there is a concern that the resumption of regular frolicking and an increase in travel will trigger a fourth wave of the virus on the island come January.

But Prime Minister Holness said that Jamaica will not see another lockdown. At the same time, he also expressed disappointment at the fact that just 19 percent of the island's population are fully vaccinated.

“The government has made available multiple brands for citizens to choose from. Despite this, vaccine take-up continues to be disappointingly low. The main barrier is no longer access and convenience and availability. It is now simply vaccine hesitancy or vaccine nonchalance. People are still waiting to see or just care,” Holness lamented.

The Prime Minister has urged all Jamaicans and those who will be flying into the island this month, to keep in mind the responsibility that comes with freedom.

Republican Status Patterson. “For some time before we entered our fortieth year of independence, our country has been actively engaged in extensive discussions and consultations on moving towards a Republican system,” he reminded them. Continuing, he said: “The political parties you both lead have repeatedly accepted the institution of our own indigenous President as head of State. This has been reflected in the election manifestos of both the JLP and PNP since 2002.”

He said successive prime ministers have reiterated that firm intention at their inaugural installations and reaffirmed their policy positions in numerous throne speeches from the dawn of the millennium.

In 2012 then prime minister, Portia Simpson-Miller placed the item on the agenda in her inauguration speech to the country. Since then, the subject has gained traction. Both parties have talked about having a Jamaican head of state and even promised a referendum on the matter. Mark Golding stated earlier this year in the Independent that “This is fundamental to our identity and our nationhood,” referring to the removal of the queen.

Former Prime Minister Bruce Golding stated in his 20112012 budget debate that “he wanted Jamaica to make its 50th year of Independence free of its colonial ties to the British monarchy.”

Current Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his JLP government have also voiced similar sentiments on Jamaica attaining republican status. When he took office after the 2016 elections, his government declared at the time that they would amend the constitution to replace the queen with a non-executive president as head of state.

Patterson himself had declared that Jamaica should aim to achieve republican status by the time he left office in 2006.

from A1

from A1

and Gambia (second one). St. Vincent and the Grenadines was part of the losing set when their referendum was defeated by 12 percent in 2009. Trinidad and Tobago went through parliament with a new constitution in 1976 and Guyana did the same with a constitutional amendment 1970. Barbados started out with the intention of going the route of a referendum, but it was postponed twice; in 2003 and 2007. But with a super-majority in parliament, Prime Minister Mottley flexed her political capital and bypassed the Barbadian population.

Mr. Patterson feels that a referendum would be a “spectacular contribution” to building Jamaica's parliamentary democracy; “permitting both parties to share a single platform in a campaign to secure national approval and allow one of our own image to become head of state.” He said that it “would inspire the fullest confidence” in the Jamaican people.

At the end of last month, Prime Minister Andrew Holness told the Jamaican people that there will be a comprehensive review of the Jamaican constitution in 2022. In addition to the goals outlined by the prime minister for the review, some are speculating whether it is a precursor to handing Queen Elizabeth II her goodbye papers.

Jamaica's Entanglement and Reparation Desires Interestingly, Buckingham Palace gave the prime minister a post-nominal title in May of this year, making him a member of the UK Privy Council. At the time, many persons wondered if he would be able to serve the queen and Jamaica effectively, especially when many Jamaicans and his government are pushing for “reparatory Justice.”

Former Prime Minister Patterson has more than reparations on his mind at this time, however. In closing his letter to the two political leaders, he said that: “It would be repulsive to contemplate a Diamond Jubilee where our constitution rests on an order in council dated the 23rd July, 1962 and a head of state who does not reflect our own image and enables every Jamaican to aspire in reaching the highest position within our native land.”

Jamaica now joins St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines where top political leaders are touting movement to republican status.

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SPORTS

Reggae Boy Leon Bailey Suffers Fresh Injury Blow Luckless Reggae Boy winger Leon Bailey has suffered a fresh injury blow that will keep him out of action until after Christmas, his English Premier League club Aston Villa has confirmed.

Bailey, 24, pulled up holding his thigh after sprinting in the first half an hour of last Wednesday’s 2-1 defeat against Manchester City. He was replaced in that game

by Ashley Young and was seen heading down the tunnel visibly upset.

Ahead of Villa’s match against Leicester on Sunday, which Villa won 2-1, manager Steven Gerrard said: “Unfortunately, he’s [Leon Bailey] had a scan and that has confirmed there is a muscle injury.

Bailey, who completed a £30 million (US$39.7 million) move from German club Bayer Leverkusen in the summer, limped off in September after a brilliant 21minute cameo in which he scored with a thunderous shot that wrapped up Villa’s 3-0 win over Everton at Villa Park.

“It’s going to be quite a long one, so he’ll be missing for a number of weeks and you won’t see him before Christmas.” – Steven Gerrard, Aston Villa Coach He returned from that quad injury in October and was handed his first start of the season in a 4-1 defeat against West Ham United in which he faced his Jamaica colleague Mikhail Antonio, but neither Reggae Boy scored.

Bailey’s combination of pace, trickery and eye for goal has given Gerrard’s side a potent attacking force from out wide and removes much of the goal-scoring burden from the likes of Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings.

The Jamaican’s injury-marred start to life at Villa Park has seen him play just 423 minutes of football in the Premier League, but the FootballFanCast website said the player had already made a huge impact in his short time at the club.

“As one of the club’s marquee summer signings, it’s been desperately disappointing to see Bailey spend so much time off the field rather than on it, and this latest niggling problem is sure to have Gerrard absolutely gutted at not being able to count on him for the foreseeable future,” the website added.

CRICKET

Powell Cameo Fails to Rescue Warriors Rovman Powell warmed up for West Indies’ series against Pakistan starting next week with an explosive knock but his efforts proved in vain as Kandy Warriors slumped to a 20-run defeat to Dambulla Giants in their opening game of the Lanka Premier League on Monday.

In pursuit of a challenging 191 at the R Premadasa Stadium, Warriors found themselves tottering on 88 for six in the 13th over, with West Indies batsman Devon Thomas (2) and Jamaican Kennar Lewis (17) both perishing cheaply.

Arriving at number six with Warriors in deep trouble, the right-handed Powell launched a brutal assault, hammering a four and four sixes in 42 off 21 balls, to rally the innings.

He put on 40 for the seventh wicket with Ishan Jayaratne (18) before falling at the start of the 17th over with 63 runs required from 24 balls, miscuing a slower ball from new-ball seamer Nuwan Pradeep (3-31) to mid off.

Powell, along with Thomas, were late call-ups to the West Indies side following injury to captain Kieron Pollard which has ruled him out of the series.

Jayaratne added a further 31 for the eighth wicket with Sachindu Colombage, who lashed an unbeaten 27 from 16 balls, before the innings subsided to 170 for eight.

Off-spinner Ramesh Mendis, who starred in the recent Test series against West Indies, finished with three for 21 from his four overs.

Earlier, Powell had proved perhaps the most economical bowler with one for 12 from his two overs of medium pace as Giants, choosing to bat first, tallied 190 for seven off their 20 overs.

Englishman Phil Salt slammed 64 from 27 balls, lashing four fours and five sixes in a rollicking 97-run, opening stand with Niroshan Dickwella who made 37 from 23 balls.

Salt was one of three wickets to tumble for 23 runs off 17 balls but Dasun Shanaka struck 24 off 18 deliveries to steady the innings before Mendis provided a dashing 11-ball unbeaten 22 towards the end.

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SPORTS

CRICKET

TRACK & FIELD

Ireland to Kick Off Very Active Series in West Indies West Indies will welcome Ireland to the Caribbean at the start of next year for four white-ball matches, which are expected to lay the platform for an active 2022 international calendar.

Sabina Park in Jamaica will host three OneDay Internationals from January 8-14, and a oneoff Twenty20 International on January 16 which is expected to serve as veteran left-hander Chris Gayle's international farewell.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Ireland back to the West Indies in January. They last visited the Caribbean in 2020 and we had some exciting encounters, so we can anticipate a competitive series to start the new year,” said Cricket West Indies chief executive, Johnny Grave.

“This will be the start of a very busy year for us at CWI, as we host several international teams as well as the ICC Men's Under-19 Cricket World Cup. “We want to thank the Government of Jamaica and our colleagues at the Jamaica Cricket Association, who have been working closely with us to make sure that the tour can take place safely and smoothly.”

The Ireland tour comes on the backdrop of a busy 2021 for West Indies when the region hosted the likes of Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia and Pakistan in Tests and white-ball matches.

Last year, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic decimated CWI's international home itinerary as Caribbean countries were forced into governmentenforced lockdowns, while regional travel slowed to a crawl.

Naz Farrow, the CEO of title sponsors CG

Insurance, said the pandemic had created unprecedented challenges which all stakeholders had been forced to navigate.

“When we first began our partnership a few years ago, we would have never imagined that the teams, and the world, were about to face one of the biggest challenges of this generation,” he pointed out.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have been thrilled to see the players and teams work through the various obstacles to constantly deliver worldclass cricket.

“Even now, as Ireland joins to play the ODIs in

January, we are proud to continue to support CWI, and this series, and look forward to these exciting matches in 2022.”

Ireland's last tour of the Caribbean came in January 2020 when they lost the ODI series 3-0 and drew 1-1 in the T20 phase.

West Indies are currently in Pakistan for a sixmatch white-ball series comprising three ODIs and three T20Is from December 13-22.

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More to Come Promises Reggae Boyz Star Michail Antonio

UK-born Antonio, whose parents were both from Jamaica, has also scored six goals for his English club West Ham United, currently riding high in fourth place in the Premier League, this term.

Antonio opened his Reggae Boyz account at the age of 31 in a 1-1 away draw against El Salvador last month in a World Cup qualifier,

Nesta Carter Slapped With FourYear Ban for Second Doping Violation Retired Jamaican Sprinter Nesta Carter was this week slapped with a fouryear ban from the sport for a second doping violation.

SOCCER

Hot-shot striker Michail Antonio, who has been juggling duties between club and country this year and has scored twice in four appearances for the Reggae Boyz, says he hopes there are more goals to come in his international career.

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producing a deft dink over the advancing goalkeeper.

Despite the superb finish, the goal was met with silence because of the empty stadium in San Salvador, Antonio said in an interview with Flow Sports.

“I scored, but there was no cheering because we had no fans there,” he said, adding that he had started to wonder if he had really scored.

He followed it up with a thunderbolt from outside the area against the United States in Kingston in another 1-1 draw – a “great strike”, he said.

“It was one of those things when you’re on the pitch and you’re in a moment and everything just feels right,” Antonio recalled. “[The ball] sat nicely for me and I’m just going to strike it. And then after you’ve hit it you realise that the world becomes normal again

Michail Antonio (2nd right) celebrates with his teamates after scoring an impressive goal against the United States in their World Cup qualier on November 16. – Contributed

because you’re kind of in a zone when you’ve got the ball at your feet.”

In a previous interview, Antonio said a Jamaican official had come to England to watch him play for Sheffield Wednesday when he was 22, but admitted he had a terrible game and heard no more from the Reggae Boyz camp.

In 2016, Antonio was called up by new England manager Sam Allardyce for a World Cup qualifier against Slovakia, but was an unused substitute.

The following year Antonio was called up by Allardyce’s successor, Gareth Southgate, for a friendly against Germany and a World Cup qualifier against Lithuania, but pulled out of both matches after picking up a hamstring injury This year, he applied for a Jamaican passport, pledging his allegiance to Jamaica, and finally made his Reggae Boyz debut in September in a 3-0 defeat against Panama.

Asked if he planned to continue playing for Jamaica, Antonio said: “I hope so,” adding that playing for the Reggae Boyz was completely different from playing for West Ham. “We use different tactics, different shape, everything is different to West Ham, but it is starting to work out for us. We’re unbeaten in four games now.”

Carter, who announced his retirement from track and field in August, was banned by Jamaica's Independent AntiDoping Disciplinary Panel for using the substance clomiphene.

Under the World AntiDoping Agency Prohibited List, clomiphene is prohibited at all times as an anti-estrogenic substance in the S4 category of Hormone and Metabolic Modulators.

The 36-year-old Carter tested positive for the substance in an out-of-competition test in March this year, which carries a maximum ban of eight years.

This is the second time that Nesta Carter has been banned from the sport for using an illegal substance. In 2017, he was slapped with a threemonth ban for using the stimulant methylhexaneamine in a retroactive test of a sample taken at the 2008 Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. Carter appealed, but an international sports tribunal upheld a ruling against him.

The positive test led to Jamaica being stripped of their Beijing 2008 gold in the men's 4x100 metres.

Nesta Carter announced his retirement this summer, saying he could not compete up to his standard in the sport.

“Now at the age of 35, I am no longer able to give of my best as an athlete to the sport that I know and love. As a result and for other reasons, I am announcing my retirement from Track and Field as an athlete,” Carter said in a statement.

He said he has been hampered by an injury that has prevented him from competing since March. Furthermore, he said that while he was prescribed medication to correct the problem, the medication breaches existing anti-doping rules.

Carter said he had to make a choice between athletics and his health.

Nesta Carter retired with a personal best in the 100m of 9.78 seconds, the eighth fastest time in history. He won Olympic gold as a member of the Jamaica 4x100m relay team that set the world record at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

He also won three World Championships gold medals as part of the Jamaica 4x100m relay team in 2011, 2013, and 2015.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, DEC 9 – DEC 15, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T

SUNDAY DEC. 12