National Weekly February 27, 2020

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

N E T W O R K T H E

M O S T

W I D E L Y

C I R C U L A T E D

C A R I B B E A N

A M E R I C A N

N E W S P A P E R

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F L O R I D A

Historic

Not If, But When Coronavirus could become serious pandemic, economic disaster

All-Jamaican Crew

by Garth A. Rose

On Sunday, February 23, American Airlines made history on a flight from Kingston to Miami, with an all-Jamaican crew. Flight 2370 was operated with a Boeing 737-800 and a Jamaican crew that included: Captain Robert McPherson, First Officer Shaun Nelson and flight attendants Linneth Duhaney, Shanecia Witter, Mario Facey and Stanley Franklin.

With every passing day, news of the novel coronavirus—a respiratory virus that was first identified in Wuhan, China, last December—becomes more worrisome.

“American Airlines has a long history in Jamaica, with 43 years operating in the country, and this is the first time that we’ve ever had an all-Jamaican crew operating one of our flights,” said Maxine Meijerink, General Manager for Kingston.

“Our team is so proud and I know that our Jamaican customers were also thrilled to be part of this historic journey. American is a company that values diversity and inclusion and this crew exemplifies that commitment.”

Captain Robert McPherson, from Kingston, has been an American Airlines Pilot for more than 20 years. “After three years flying together, First Officer Shaun Nelson and I are now going to fly different aircraft, so this was our last flight together. We couldn’t believe that on this particular flight we had an all-Jamaican crew.”

“Before the flight, we all had ackee and saltfish for breakfast, the perfect way to start this special day,” added McPherson.

Flight attendant Stanley Franklin, from the parish of Portland, remembers the excitement around the flight. “Being a part of the all-Jamaican crew was exciting, to say the least. We were shocked and excited

Spreading rapidly from China to Europe and other areas of Asia over the last two months, the virus has infected over 80,000 people more than 30 countries, causing over 2,700 deaths. As the count of victims and death rises daily, the disease is poised to become a serious pandemic.

In South Florida, where no coronavirus cases have been detected, the impact of the virus is being felt, especially in the business sector.

Two of the regions more prominent businesses, Carnival Corp, operator of Carnival Cruise Lines, and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. incurred significant losses when the U.S. stock market list some 1900 points earlier this week due to investor fears over the impact of the virus.

Royal Caribbean’s shares dropped more than 7 percent Tuesday, and Carnival’s shares fell more than 5 percent. continues on B4 Coronovirus

continues on B2 – All-Jamaican Crew

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

DAME EUGENIA CHARLES: THE CARIBBEAN’S FIRST FEMALE PM A3

FIVE CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE FOR H-2A AND H-2B VISAS A4

CAPLETON AND MORE TO HEADLINE AFROCARIB FESTIVAL B3

MATTOCKS ACCUSED OF INSURANCE FRAUD IN NEW YORK C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

Third World meets Tanto: Members of the Interna onal Reggae Band Third World sharing the stage with Tanto Irie at the Hot 105 Penthouse. L-r: Stephen “Cat” Coore, Tanto Irie, A.J. “Boots” Brown, and Richie Daley. Photo Credit: Mark James

Family St. Lucia: This beau ful family celebra ng St. Lucia's Independence at Holy Family Episcopal Church in Miami Gardens. – Contributed

Shoo ng The Breeze: L-R: Mea Allman, Latoya Jean, Imole Akinlana, and Roy Mamah a er an evening of discussions. – Contributed

One Tamarac: This s lt walker shares the lens with a youngster at the One Tamarac Mul cultural event held at the Tamarac Sports Complex. – Contributed It's Mul cultural! City of Tamarac Commissioner Marlon Bolton having a chat with Tamarac Chamber President Peter Mason at the One Tamarac Mul cultural event. – Contributed

St. Lucia 41: St. Lucia's Consul General, Tassa Jean (center) with members of the St. Lucia Diaspora displaying their na ve war and St. Lucia colors, at the 41st celebra on of Independence held at Holy Family Episcopal Church in Miami Gardens. – Contributed

Partners for Youth: L-r: Partners for Youth Founda on chairman, Clinton DaCosta; Broward Superintendent of Schools, Robert Runcie; Partners for Youth Founda on secretary, Noelle Baldwin; Re red Chief of Police, Andrew Smalling; Davie Mayor Judy Paul; Partners for Youth Founda on vice-chair, Steve Higgins; Partners for Youth Founda on directors, Dr. Rose-Marie Lewis and Abigail Thompson and Jamaican Consul General to Miami, Oliver Mair at the Davie Pine Island Park Mul purpose Center. Photo Credit: Uriah Benne

Celebra on of Black Mayors: L-r: Miramar Mayor, Wayne Messam; Caribbean Bar Associa on past president, Alison F. Smith; Lauderdale Lakes Mayor, Hazelle Rogers; Pembroke Park Mayor, Ashira Mohammed; Lauderhill Mayor, Ken Thurston; Broward County Mayor, Dale Holness; Caribbean Bar Associa on past president, Robert Vaughn; West Park Mayor, Rev. Eric Jones, Jr., and execu ve director of the Broward Bar, Braulio Rosa. – Contributed

Birthday Cake and Cocktails: Cake Ar stry instructor, Kimone Ferguson (center) shares her cra on her birthday with friends and family. Photo Credit: Luke Ballen ne

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8 –

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

DAME

EUGENIA

A3

NEWSMAKER

CHARLES

The Caribbean's First Female Prime Minister An outstanding Caribbean newsmaker, who deserves special mention in the celebration of Black History Month, is the late former Prime Minister of Dominica, Dame Mary Eugenia Charles.

The leaderships of Barbados' Mia Mottley, Trinidad and Tobago's Kamla Persad-Bissessar, and Jamaica's Portia Simpson-Miller, among others, are all the dominoeffect of the political career of Dame Mary Eugenia Charles, the Caribbean's first female prime minister.

Charles served as the Prime Minister of Dominica from 1980 to 1995, the second prime minister of that Caribbean nation. Not only was she the first woman in the Americas to be elected in her own right as head of government, but she created a legacy as the longest-serving female prime minister in the Caribbean and the second-longest serving prime minister in Dominica. She was also the world's third longest-serving female prime minister, behind Indira Gandhi of India and Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka.

Eugenia Charles was born in 1919, long before Dominica gained independence from the United

Dame Eugenia with President Ronald Reagan at the White House, announcing the Grenada invasion to the world, 25 October 1983.

Kingdom in 1978. Though she was born during Dominica's colonial era, Charles grew up relatively wealthy, as her parents were descendants of free people of color. Her father was a mason who became a wealthy landowner and had business interests in the import-export business.

She attended the Catholic Convent School in Dominica, the island's only girls' secondary school at the time. After graduating, Charles became interested in law while working at the colonial magistrate's court. She attended the University of Toronto in Canada and gained her law degree in 1947. She later moved

to the United Kingdom where she, like many other Caribbean nationals, attended the prestigious London School of Economics. She passed the bar in London and returned to Dominica, where she became the island's first female lawyer.

She decided to enter politics, and began campaigning during the 1960s against imposed restrictions on press freedom. She helped in founding the Dominica Freedom Party (DFP), and served as party leader from the early 1970s until 1995. She was first elected to the House of Assembly in 1970 and became opposition leader in 1975, and would continue serving in that position until Dominica gained its full

independence from British rule in 1978.

Charles had the distinction of becoming the first female prime minister in the Caribbean when she led the DFP in a sweep of the 1980 elections, the party's first electoral victory. She took over from former Prime Minister Oliver Seraphin, who had taken over only the year before, when mass protests had forced the country's first prime minister, Patrick John, to step down from office. She, additionally, served as Dominica's foreign minister from 1980 to 1990, and as chairperson of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

She became more widely known to the world outside of Dominica for her role in the lead-up to the United States Invasion of Grenada in 1983.

In the wake of the arrest and execution of Grenadian Prime Minister Maurice Bishop, Charles, then serving as chairperson of the OECS, appealed to the United States, Jamaica, and Barbados for intervention. She appeared on television with U.S. president Ronald Reagan, supporting the invasion. Journalist Bob Woodward reported that the U.S. later paid millions of U.S. dollars to the Dominica government. At the time, some critics regarded portions of the payment as payments by the CIA as a 'payoff' for Charles's support for the U.S. intervention in Grenada.

During her tenure as Prime Minister, Charles made policies that

Charles

protected the poor and disadvantaged in Dominica. She supported many social welfare programs, anticorruption laws and individual freedom policies. For her uncompromising stance on these issues, she became known as the "Iron Lady of the Caribbean." In 1991, she was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, the equivalent to a knighthood for a man.

With her popularity declining during her third term, Charles announced her retirement in 1995.

The DFP subsequently lost the 1995 elections. After retiring, Charles undertook speaking engagements in the United States and other countries. She became involved in former U.S. President Jimmy Carter's Carter Center, which promotes human rights and observes elections in several countries to encourage fairness.

In 2005, Charles entered a hospital in Fort-de-France, Martinique, for hip-replacement surgery. She died from a pulmonary embolism on September 6, 2005, at 86 years of age.

Charles never married or had children.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

Five Caribbean Countries Eligible for U.S. H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs the programs in 2020.

These Caribbean countries are Barbados, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

But USCIS said while the Dominican Republic is eligible to participate in the H-2A program, it is not eligible to participate in the H-2B program.

For 2020, USCIS said the DHS has determined, with the concurrence of the Office of the Secretary of State, that the countries designated as eligible in 2019 will remain unchanged.

“DHS maintains its authority to add

The Trump administration has listed five Caribbean countries among 84 worldwide that are eligible for H-2A and H-2B visa programs that allow U.S. employers to bring foreign nationals to the U.S. to fill temporary agricultural and nonagricultural jobs.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), said the five Caribbean countries are eligible to participate in

USCIS Director, Ken Cuccinelli

countries to the eligible countries list at any time, and to remove any country whenever DHS and DOS determine that a country fails to meet the requirements for continued designation,” said USCIS in a statement.

It said examples of factors that could result in the exclusion of a country or the removal of a country from the list include fraud, abuse, denial rates, overstay rates, human trafficking concerns, and other forms of noncompliance with the terms and conditions of the H-2 visa programs by nationals of that country.

Typically, USCIS said it approves H-2A and H-2B petitions only for nationals of countries continues on A7 – Visa programs

President Granger Pleased With Early Voting in Guyana

St. Lucia Celebrates 41st Anniversary of Political Independence St. Lucia celebrated its 41st anniversary of political independence from Britain on Monday, February 24. In marking the anniversary with his Independence Day message, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet urged nationals “to shake the habits that continue to drown” the island.

Chastanet said that with the developments over the past four decades, including building an economy no longer tied to or dependent on an agricultural monocrop, “we must continue to recognize the things that keep us back, the attitudes and modes of behavior which hurt us, and eliminate them once and for all.

“We need to apply equal effort to the development of values as we do to fiscal policy and infrastructure. But what are these values? I am speaking here about love and respect for each other and for our country, respect for authority and the laws of our country, tolerance, honesty, discipline and so on.”

“As I have said before, St. Lucia, it is our time but, we must work together to shake the habits that continue to drown our sweet Helen,” he said, urging a change even in the driving habits of motorists and the murders which, he said, had occurred “because of personal differences and the inability to resolve conflicts peacefully.”

Guyana President David Granger said he was “very satisfied with the turnout,” as members of the security forces began casting ballots on Friday, February 21, ahead of the March 2 regional and general elections in Guyana.

“The process is smooth; it is proceeding without interruption. I am very satisfied with the turnout, and I think the people of Guyana can be assured that the disciplined forces are performing their civic duty,” said Granger, who, under the Guyana Constitution, is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Guyana Defense Force (GDF).

Granger, a retired military officer, added “they are not being obstructed by the administration, in any way, and the administration of the elections commission seems to be functioning efficiently.”

But Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, in a statement posted on his Facebook page, said prior to the vote, the opposition People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was “aware” that a few “senior officials of the joint services have been trying to intimidate ranks and officers to vote” for the coalition administration — A Partnership for

Granger

continues on B4 – Granger pleased

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8 –

A5

Talk UP Do you think mental illness and suicide prevention are discussed widely enough in the Caribbean community?

Francis Taveras, Miami “No. I personally think in the Caribbean, mental illness and suicide are considered a taboo and people don't talk about it as they should. They prefer to discuss it at home and sometimes even not even then. I think we need to take the time to help people understand that needs to be treated.”

Vanessa Rostant, Miami “I would have to answer no. Even in today's forward-thinking world, I still feel that there is a stereo-type associated with mental illness and not nearly enough compassion. Many people, in my opinion, do not understand that mental illness is a very real disease. In the Caribbean community, especially, I feel that people brush things under the rug in many cases, instead of addressing it, possibly for fear of being shunned by their peers or being judged.”

Sunita Mohammed, Miami “No, not really! I personally think some people in the Caribbean Community believe mental illness is “not real” or are in denial about it, thinking it's a stereotype and that people are “crazy” as opposed to actually dealing with a mental issue. It's very sad because I do believe it should be spoken about more and taken more seriously.”

Shamara Passley, Pembroke Pines “No, but maybe now that it's starting to affect more Caribbean families, I do hope mental illness and suicide prevention is taken more seriously and programs are created to help people get the help they need. Unfortunately real people suffer from real pain/anxiety within themselves and never speak about it. People go years without telling people about their condition and end up dead because they didn't even feel comfortable enough to talk about it or reach out for help; and people are too quick to judge.”

Jason Lyn, Fort Lauderdale “No I don't think it is because I feel like Caribbean parents raise their kids better or more strong minded than other places typically do. I do feel like Caribbean people don't really hold back on expressing themselves and would be more open to expressing feelings of sadness/ depression and anxiety which I would think are feelings that can lead to suicidal thoughts.”

Handel M. Edwards II, Esq., Plantation “It has been mentioned that many Caribbean parents do not want their children to be tested for mental issues despite studies showing that psychological interventions are most successful when implemented from a young age. By encouraging more dialogue in our communities on this topic, we can change the perception of identifications and interventions being a negative long-term classification of the child to being a resource that will help the child maximize his or her potential.”

Stephanie Mendoza, Miami “I don't think it's discussed enough in the Caribbean or in all of the world. I feel it's a topic that is very hard to open up about. There definitely needs to be more dialogue with regards to depression and psychological issues because the rate of suicides is rapidly increasing in our society.”

Donovan Harris, Jamaica “No it is not. It's almost taboo to talk about mental health in the Caribbean based on the fact that it isn't taken seriously. Most discussions about mental health to anyone is met with aggression and immediately shut down making them feel more obligated to speak about what it is that may be bothering him or her; this in turn causes the victim to clam up.”

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A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

Is America Primed For An Ideological Sea Change?

MANAGING EDITOR

T

here was a time when the mere mention of the word socialism in America was synonymous with treason. Socialists were immediately associated with communist leaders like Cuba’s Fidel Castro, and Russia’s Lenin, Stalin, and Khrushchev. Socialists were deemed to be despicable people who control every aspect of the lives of those they govern.

Fast forward to 2020 and, amazingly, there is evidence of a socialist wave gradually building across America. More remarkable is that a septuagenarian candidate, a self-declared Democratic Socialist, campaigning for the United States presidency is gaining significant support from a coalition of diverse voters, dominated by young voters.

What happened to cause this phenomenal turn of events? Why are people defying the old stigma of socialism and are now supporting Democratic Socialists?

Back in 2007 when Barack Obama declared his candidacy for president, he was labeled a socialist. At the time, a political commentator writing in a Chicago newspaper said although Obama may not be a socialist, America was “primed for socialism” because of the lingering socio-economic inequalities.

Over several decades, the divide between the tiny percentage of “haves” and the overwhelming majority of “have-nots” in America has widened, prompting the call for social and economic equality.

In reality, there are no signs America is primed for the classic definition of socialism where the government controls everything, but there is a growing concern about income disparity. It’s ready for a government that offers everyone a fair chance at a decent standard of living.

However, it’s unnecessary for those who seek to create this change to label their mission as socialist, because the society, especially a wealthy society, is usually better off with a social and economic balance.

In fact, several CEOs of Fortune 500 companies have begun to sound the alarm that the current system needs to be adjusted to facilitate a more equitable society.

It is a fact that Americans are demanding

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While unemployment in America is at a historic low, underemployment is way too high.

This means millions of working Americans are nonetheless earning insufficient income to provide adequately for themselves and their families.

But, realistically, can those who are now waving the socialist banner convince a majority of Americans to elect them as their leader?

Opinions vary on how Americans react to socialism. In May 2019, Gallup found 43 percent, particularly minority populations and the youth, thought some form of socialism would be good for the country. A Harris poll found only 24 percent would vote for a socialist.

Another Harris poll suggested half of those under age 40 would “prefer to live in a socialist country,” and that three-quarters of Democrats believed the country would be “better off” if it were more socialist.

Although it currently seems there’s increased leaning towards progressive candidates, there is really no clear indication most Americans are prepared to elect a socialist as president. What is clear, however, is that the American working class is unafraid to emerge

from that false place which suggested they are content with their lot. They are far from content and seem willing to say so with their votes.

Is America now poised for a real ideological sea change?

One just doesn’t know, although in today’s America anything is possible. The answer will soon be clear, in what is shaping to be a truly bizarre election year.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8 –

A7

LA SECTION HAITIENNE

Haiti Cancels Carnival Amid Police/Army Gun Battle For the second year in a row, Haiti's pre-Lenten Carnival celebration has been cancelled as the country's two armed forces: the Haiti National Police (PNH) and the Army, squared off in a gun battle over the weekend.

The gun battle between the police, civilians dressed in regular clothing, and members of the newly revived Armed Forces of Haiti ensued shortly after 1 p.m. on the Champ de Mars, the staging ground for Carnival festivities.

By 8 p.m. the government announced that its national Carnival, planned for Sunday through Tuesday (February 25), was officially cancelled “in order to avoid the planned bloodshed.” At least one person was killed in the capital when he was hit in the head with a bullet, local radio Radio Mega reported. At least 13 others were also wounded, including police officers, according to media reports.

Police officers said the battle began on their

side because of the government's failure to meet their demands for a pay increase. The clashes also involved persons demanding the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse and members of the Haitian Armed Forces.

In a statement, the government said that it was condemning “these acts of violence and acts which violate freedom and democracy.”

It questioned the rationale behind the attacks aimed at driving the country into chaos, despite the commitments and decisions of the authorities to respond to the demands of the

police officers.

It urged people to be vigilant “in these troubled moments of national life” noting that “in any case, it cannot allow a trivial exploitation of the demands of the PNH and justify these violent actions which expose the country as much, through an alleged rejection of carnival by a certain sector of the population.”

On Sunday night, acting Prime Minister Jean-Michel Lapin said the government could not immediately raise officers' pay—which is between $200 and $255 a month before taxes—due to rules governing the salaries of public servants.

But in another report, President Jovenel Moïse announced other measures which included doubling a monthly police debit card from $51 to $102 for 15,000 members of the police force; the construction of a new police housing village with 2-bedroom apartments that would be sold with a mortgage payable over 25 to 30 years at 7.5 percent interest rate, and access to the National Old Age Insurance Office (ONA), a government pension plan reserved for private-sector employees.

Visa Programs from A4

that the DHS secretary has designated as eligible to participate in the programs.

However, USCIS said it may approve H-2A and H-2B petitions, including those that were pending as of the date of the Federal Register notice, for nationals of countries not on the list on a case-by-case basis “only if doing so is determined to be in the interest of the United States.”

USCIS said the list does not affect the status of H-2 beneficiaries who currently are in the United States, “unless they apply to extend their status.”

It also said the list applies to nonimmigrants changing status in the United States to H-2A or B. “Each country's designation is valid, subject to removal for failure to meet the requirements for continued designation, from January 19, 2020, until January 18, 2021,” USCIS said.

Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup Comes to North Miami for 20th Anniversary Tournament Sixteen soccer teams across South Florida will be vying for the 2020 Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup beginning March 1 and culminating on March 17 at the North Miami Stadium. The event, which is a partnership between Digicel, communication and entertainment provider for the Caribbean, Central America, and the Asia Pacific, and the 2020 Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup, will mark the 20th anniversary.

During the Cup's opening day, attendees will also be able to enjoy performances from Yani Martelly, Klass, Disip, Kenny, TonyMix – DJ, Paz-DJ, AJ 305, Rara Lakay, among others.

“This is one of the biggest and most exciting events for our Haitian community, and we are more than proud to be a sponsor year after year.

We want to be present and support our community in any way we can. There's no better occasion than this one,” said Richard Mas, general manager for Digicel in Miami.

Digicel has developed two exciting new promotions for the Haitian and Caribbean communities to enjoy.

The first is Cash Drop WINsday, where anyone that sends a $10 plan or Top Up using digiceltopup.com will give the chance to their loved one to win their share of up to $12,750 in cash and prizes. Winners will be announced every Wednesday until the end of March.

The other is Refund$20/$20, where anyone in the U.S. and Canada that sends a plan or Top Up valued at $20 or more to a Digicel phone will participate in the raffle of 20 gift cards a day valued at $20/each. The winning team of senders and receivers will be notified via text. Refund$20/$20 will be live from March 1 until April 20.

The 2020 Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup is a unique event that combines the best in soccer and music for the Haitian community in South Florida. “This cultural event belongs to the community, and, year after year, we make it bigger and better with the community in mind,” said Patrick Fabre, owner Kyata Sports Entertainment (KSE) and producer of the Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup.

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A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

While Jamaica has some of the most well-known tourist attractions, like climbing the Dunn's River Falls and rafting on the Rio Grande, in the Caribbean, there are other relatively new attractions on the island that are just as beautiful and adventurous which has been gaining great popularity.

For those who have visited Jamaica and have previously taken in the most popular Jamaican attractions, they are invited to put these newer attractions on the list for their next trip to Jamaica. According to travel site tripsavvy, only 31 percent of US adults said they took a romantic getaway in the past 12 months. Couples don't have to wait for Valentine's Day for an amorous vacation and Jamaica has the perfect locations for lovers seeking an unforgettable experience.

In addition to awe-inspiring sunsets, sunshine, azure water and sandy beaches, couples looking to keep the passion going after a hot summer can turn to these romantic attractions:

Blue Mountain Hike

The lush, mist-filled hills leading to the Blue Mountains create a dreamy and almost celestial setting. While far above the rest of the island, couples can feel hidden away from the rest of the world, experiencing everything from a bike tour to some of the most expensive coffee in the world.

Hiking to the Blue Mountain Peak in The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park and World Heritage Site, is another Jamaican phenomenon.

The hike begins in the dark, earlymorning hours. Couples can join a group of hikers ready for the seven-mile trek up to Blue Mountain Peak, the highest on the island, rising to an altitude of 7,402 feet.

The way is narrow and steep, especially at a part known as Jacob's Ladder. But hikers conquer each hurdle. With every step, the stars seem to get closer. As the hikers near their destination, the dark outline of the forest grows on either side.

On a clear morning, hikers can see Buff Bay and Port Antonio's Navy Island to the north, and Kingston, Portmore and St. Thomas' coast to the south. They might even spot the outlines of Cuba, 90 miles to the north. After the long trek, hikers can rest, knowing they have just conquered Blue Mountain Peak.

The hike down is in the daylight, and as hikers take care with each step they cannot

miss the botanical richness of the mountains.

They pass through an elfin forest, where the low canopy makes them feel as though they are walking through a green tunnel. As they descend they see clusters of tree ferns, bamboo and eucalyptus trees, colorful wildflowers and hundreds of ferns growing alongside the mossy trail. As they travel through this lush tropical forest, birdcalls fill the air, a natural musical background for the hike.

Overall, the 14-mile trail takes about seven hours. Starting early in the morning makes for an exciting hike and incredible view of the sunrise; however, couples don't have to follow this popular trend. The hike can be accomplished in the daylight.

Those who decide to begin the hike in the morning, can spend the night at either Whitfield Hall or Wildflower Lodge, or camp out at Portland Gap. Both lodges are cozy and rustic, and their staff will make arrangements to pick up hikers from Kingston or Mavis Bank. They will also organize local guides, and can provide meals on request. Generally, the best time to try the hike is during the Blue Mountains' dry season, which lasts from December to April, coinciding with the peak of Jamaica's tourism season.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8 –

B1

TRAVEL. LIFESTYLE. CUISINE.

Luminous Lagoon

Also located in Falmouth, has become a popular attraction for couples visiting Jamaica. The lagoon's primary attraction is the glowing water.

When swimmers move their bodies through the phosphorescent lagoon, microscopic organisms are disturbed, causing the water to glow and let off a glistening light. This phenomenon is said to take place in only three places in the world, so visitors should savor this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The Luminous Lagoon stretches along the marshslands of Trelawny from the small community of Rock to Falmouth. Located where the Martha Brae River meets the Caribbean Sea, the lagoon housed a wharf where large vessels from England unloaded goods onto smaller ships to be delivered inland up the river.

Years after the sugar trade's decline, scientists discovered the lagoon's geographical location was important for another purpose. It was the best place to observe and study micro-organisms called dino-flagellates, which thrive in the layers where salt and fresh water combine and glow the brightest in shallow, warm water.

At night, the lagoon sparkles and glistens when disturbed, as these microscopic organisms produce an eerie glow, reflecting the outlines of fish and other objects in the water. The Luminous Lagoon continually attracts and awes visitors and scientists from around the world.

Departing every night from the Glistening Waters Marina, crowded tour boats take visitors on a ride around the lagoon. The highlight of the 45-minute tour is where visitors get the chance to take a swim and their bodies are surrounded by the luminous green glow.

On the south coast of Jamaica is St. Elizabeth parish where there is a majestic 1,700-foot cliff called Lover's Leap.

According to Jamaican lore, the cliff obtained its name from two young slaves who were in love, but leaped to their deaths together. The legend relates that the woman was in love with a field slave but the plantation owner wanted her for his personal pleasures. When the owner threatened to sell the male slave to another plantation owner and separate them, they made a bond to leap to their deaths.

The site, which has been developed into an attractive park, offers visitors an ecstatic scenery. Couples can enjoy the view while considering the tale about the lovers.

TALLAWAHS

Lover’s Leap

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

MIAMI GARDENS

Jamaican-American Lavern Deer To Launch Campaign For Mayor Lavern Deer, senior program project coordinator for the Broward County Human Services Department, and founder/CEO for the non-profit organization Female Development World Organization Inc. will launch her election campaign for mayor of the City of Miami Gardens on March 4, at the Top Notch Whiskey and Cigar Lounge on Miami Gardens.

The city's incumbent Mayor Oliver Gilbert terms out this year, and is expected to contest the Miami-Dade Commission seat being vacated by Commissioner Barbara Jordan, who also terms out this year.

Jamaican-born Deer, who migrated to The Bahamas at age 9 and settled in Florida later, has been a resident of Miami Gardens since 1990 and is honored and confident she's wellqualified to serve the city.

During the launch event, Deer will present her priorities to revitalize the city of Miami Gardens and positively serve its residents. She says her strategic plan as mayor is to focus on what she considers to be the top six priorities

Deer

impacting the city: crime reduction, job creation, elderly affairs, youth development, housing and review of the redlight camera process.

Deer holds a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration and a master's degree in business administration from Nova Southeastern University. She is the single mother of a son.

In 2013, Deer designed the successful Reggae Girlz Awareness Campaign which encouraged youth development and facilitated the Jamaica National Women Soccer Team to become the first Caribbean nation to qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup. She has also organized and chaired the Jamaica High School Alumni Sporting Network Inc. (JHSASN) which has seen the development of the All Alumni High School Soccer tournament, now a staple event in South Florida.

She founded Female Development World Organization Inc. (FDWO) with the mission to positively impact the education, health, and

Caribbean-American Pre-teen Awarded 2020 NASA Rocket and Space Center Scholarship Jayda Washington-Boothe, a 12-year-old American of Jamaican and Bahamian descent, is the recipient of the 2020 NASA Rocket and Space Center Scholarship for Robotics.

The scholarship will cover tuition, room and board in Huntsville, Alabama. Jayda completed a rigorous application, including references, a research project, resume, and patch application from August 2019November 2019.

Jayda is a 6th grader in the Broward County Public Schools. She is involved in numerous activities including Black Girls Code-Miami Chapter, IT Women, Girl Up,

Word Camp Miami, Broward County Chess Ambassador/Queen, Vex Robotics SECME, National Junior Honor Society, and The U.S. Chess Federation.

She volunteers with numerous organizations including Dare to Care Outreach, The Faith Center Ministries Youth Department, “Hands on Broward,” and Hurricane Dorian Relief Efforts. Jayda is a recipient of Florida State Representative Richard Stark Community Service Award and nominee for the City of Coral Springs MLK Monument Award for leadership and community service.

Jayda's goals are to become a software engineer, a professional chef, and a professional athlete.

social development of girls and young women across all communities by aggressively engaging their leaders, organizations, and government representatives to foster increased and consistent awareness of the systemic problems impeding such development, most specifically, in socio-economically challenged communities.

Some of the municipalities addressed by the FDWO includes: Miami Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Margate, Tamarac and North Miami Beach. FDWO and Lavern have taken its mission a step further by working with Florida legislators to propose language for the Human Trafficking Education in Schools Bill. The bill is supported by the Department of Education and has successfully passed all its Senate Committees.

In 2018, Deer successfully completed a month-long training on human trafficking through Shared Hope International and now serves as a Human Trafficking Expert and Subject Matter Volunteer Ambassador of Hope.

All-Jamaican crew

from A1

when all four cabin crew were all-Jamaican but when we found out the cockpit crew both are Jamaican as well, we realized it was an unusual and special occasion.”

Passengers also took part in the fun. “The passengers were also excited…we were all able to speak to them in Patois. It made for a very upbeat, fun flight and you could feel the pride and excitement of the passengers,” said Franklin.

First Officer Shaun Nelson, from Montego Bay, added: “Jamaicans are a proud set of people and when passengers hear the Jamaican accent coming from the cockpit it makes them feel good. You get a lot of ‘Respect Mon’ and ‘Big Up’ when we greet and say goodbye to those passengers.”

After a two hour and six-minute flight, AA2370 landed in Miami at 8:50 a.m. Flight Attendant Linneth Duhaney made her arrival announcement: “This all-Jamaican crew would like to welcome you to Miami.”

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8 –

B3

Capleton, Stonebwoy And Amara La Negra Headline Afro Carib Festival Amara La Negra

Capleton

Stonebwoy

Reggae and Afro-beats will mingle with a spicy latin flavor when Capleton, Stonebwoy and Amara La Negrat hit the stage at the Afro Carib Festival on Saturday, February 29, at the Miramar Amphitheater at 6 p.m.

The event, hosted by Miramar Vice Mayor Alexandra P. Davis, is part of the city's monthlong celebration of Black History Month.

Vice Mayor Davis said, “We are so excited to be hosting the first Afro Carib Festival right here in Miramar. February is Black History Month and it also happens to be Reggae Month. We have put together an artist lineup that is exceptional. We are fusing the different genres of music from the African diaspora and we hope Miramar residents and visitors from all over can come out to enjoy great music at a gorgeous venue.”

Reggae's self-proclaimed “Fireman” Capleton, Afro-beats artist Stonebwoy from Ghana and Amara La Negra will headline the show, joined by Julien Believe and Jay Shep from The Bahamas, gospel-reggae singer, Soné and the Gutta Twins from Jamaica. Miramar's own Tone C will also be performing. The event will be hosted by Yvette Marshall and Lance-O of Kulcha Shok Muzik with DJ Mikey Mike.

The festivities will also include food trucks offering multicultural cuisine, local vendors and much more. Event sponsors include Aetna, Workspace Property Trust, WZOP/WZPP Radio and CES Consultants.

The Afro Carib Festival is free to the public with a $10 parking fee benefiting United Way's Hurricane Dorian Fund & Food for the Poor.

The African Heritage Cultural Arts Center Celebrates Women’s History Month With NAACP Award-winning Play “Pretty Fire” MIAMI, Florida – The African Heritage Cultural Arts Center celebrates Women’s History Month with the NAACP awardwinning play, “Pretty Fire” on March 13-15 at the Sandrell Rivers Theater, 6103 NW 7th Ave in Miami. The play features women in lead production roles – including director, stage manager and producer – and is part of the Center’s 45th-anniversary celebration.

“Pretty Fire,” winner of two NAACP Theatre Awards – Best Play and Best Playwright – is the first play of a trilogy written by playwright and actress Charlayne Woodard.

In five autobiographical vignettes, the play is a touching story of an African American family

through three generations of love, struggle and triumph. The one-woman show shares the story of Woodard’s premature birth and her growing up in Albany, New York, while the Ku Klux Klan burned crosses in her grandparents’ town in Georgia.

The cast includes the lead role played by actress Trittney Huzzie. “Pretty Fire” is the directorial debut of Carbonell-nominated actress, and winner of the Broadway World Award for Best Actress, Khadijah Rolle.

“We are thrilled that Khadijah Rolle agreed to direct such a poignant theatrical work, by one of the great voices of the American theatre,” stated Marshall L. Davis, the Center’s Managing

Director. “We are committed to telling the stories African American women, and an allfemale production during Women’s History Month is an important way to lead and celebrate.”

“Pretty Fire” has a run time of 2 hours, including a 15-minute intermission. Ticket prices range from $5 to $35. Discounts are available for students, seniors, military, and groups of 10 or more. Tickets can be purchased online at https://tickets.ftfshows.comor by calling the Sandrell Rivers Box Office at (305) 284-8872. Box Office hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Rolle

Visit BestOfTheBestConcert.com for ticket outlets

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

ON THE COVER

Coronavirus

Granger pleased

from A1

more of a question of exactly when this will happen,” Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases told a news briefing.

She said plans should be made for “social distancing measures,” like dividing school classes into smaller groups of students or closing schools altogether; cancellations of meetings and conferences, and businesses arranging for employees to work from home.

“We are asking the American public to work with us to prepare, in the expectation that this could be bad,” Dr. Messonnier said.

Jerry Parrish, chief economist of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, has cautioned that Florida’s tourism could take a blow soon, noting that international travelers and cruise passengers were vulnerable industries.

International travel, ocean cruises, in particular, could be seriously impacted by the virus if it’s not controlled soon. Earlier this week, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands prevented passengers on a cruise ship from Miami-based cruise line MSC Cruises, from disembarking in their ports for fear of the coronavirus. This, after health officials discovered that a crew member with flu-like symptoms was quarantined. Health ministers from both countries cited protecting their citizens as the reason for the decision.

Florida International University (FIU), which has for several years sponsored a Study Overseas program, announced on Tuesday that the program has been suspended over caution over the coronavirus.

Major Concerns To compound the potential danger of this disease which has claimed victims mostly over age 65, a renowned Canadian epidemiologist, Dr. Bruce Alyward who led a team of medical experts to China to study the coronavirus on behalf of the World Health Organization says outside China, other countries are not ready for a pandemic.

Moving proactively to cope with the possible impact of the coronavirus in the U.S., the White House requested $2.5 billion from Congress, but on Wednesday lawmakers, including Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer, indicated this amount will need to be significantly increased.

A major concern was raised by

At least 57 cases in U.S. Although up to press time just 57 cases have been reported in the United States, health officials here warned the new coronavirus will almost certainly spread in the U.S. They urged hospitals, businesses and schools to begin making preparations.

“It’s not so much of a question of if this will happen anymore but rather

Alex M. Azar II, the secretary of health and human services, who told a Senate panel on Tuesday, there was a need for more ant-viral masks, for people to wear to protect themselves from contracting the virus. Azar said that there were 30 million N95 masks, respirators best suited to guarding against viruses that typically cost less than $1 apiece, in the nation’s emergency stockpile. That may seem like a lot of masks, but the U.S. has a population of over 327 million people.

Another major concern is that there’s no available vaccine to prevent the spread, or treat the symptoms, of the virus, either nationally or globally.

The estimated timeline for such a vaccine being available ranges from 12 to 18 months.

Dr. Francis Cornelius, a South Miami epidemiologist, cautions that people should prepare for the impact of the coronavirus, “like they do preparing for a hurricane.” He advises residents to stock up with face masks, sanitary wipes to clean hard surfaces, and hand sanitizers. “Protect yourselves as you do for other respiratory viruses, wash hands frequently, cover the mouth when you cough or sneeze, and stay home if you are sick with a cold or the flu.”

FOR NEWS, AND MORE LOG ON TO

from A1

National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC).

“We urge you not to be intimidated, as your right to vote for a political party of your choice is constitutionally enshrined. Your vote is also secret and there is also no way of determining who you vote for, as ballots cast will not be counted at the place of poll, but rather, they will be added to those cast on March 2,” Jagdeo wrote.

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) said members of the GDF, Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Fire Service (GFS) and Guyana Prison Service (GPS) cast early ballots at 60 polling places across the country.

GECOM said an estimated 10,226 members of the disciplined forces were eligible to cast ballots at the polling stations across the 10 regions.

Granger, who visited Base Camp Ayanganna and the Police Officers Club, accompanied by senior government officials, indicated his satisfaction with the punctual start of the voting process, and emphasized his visit was not, in any way, an obstruction to the procedure. He said he expects the same efficiency on March 2.

“I expect that, on the second of March, the national process will be equally satisfactory executed by the elections commission, which has responsibility for that function,” he said.

GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier Patrick West, was the first to cast his vote at Base Camp Ayanganna, where a 95 percent voter turnout was expected.

He said those who were not able to vote on the 21st, will do so, with the general public, on March 2, and that every soldier has the right to vote for the political party of his/her choice.

Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, who also cast his ballot, expressed his satisfaction with the easy flow of the voting process.

Meanwhile, the PPP/C has issued a statement saying it is “deeply disturbed” by the recent decisions of GECOM, to reduce the number of polling places, “especially in PPP/C strongholds”.

“We consider this latest development, as yet another attempt by GECOM, to frustrate voters, suppress and hinder voting and create possible confusion on Elections Day,” the party said, adding that it was calling on the technical advisors from the Commonwealth and Canada, “all the election observer teams in Guyana, the diplomatic community and civil society organizations to note our concerns and to join us in our efforts to ensure that the Guyanese electorate gets a free and fair opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote on March 2, 2020.”

Sudoku 1

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1. Objective 4. On an ocean trip 8. Fury 12. Gun org.

13. Tree greenery 14. Building extensions 15. 12th mo.

16. Jaunty 17. Pod dwellers 18. Bother 20. Land measure 21. Tavern drinks 23. Lifts 25. Country of origin 29. Birthday number 30. Distributed cards 31. _____ loss for words (2 wds.)

34. Between 40 and 60 (hyph.)

36. Tranquilize 39. Fishing string 40. Begged 41. Firstborn 45. Film legend_____ Hayworth 46. Stallion’s mate 47. Discoverer’s cry 50. Gossip bit 51. Corrupt 52. Children’s game 53. Actor Richard _____ 54. Sharp blows 55. Superlative suffix

1. Additionally 2. Wrath 3. Large knife 4. Swiss peaks 5. Witnesses 6. English nobleman 7. Nevertheless (2 wds.)

8. Gave back 9. Guinness and Baldwin 10. Blinding light 11. Some curves 19. Fire residue 21. Medical org.

23. Ship’s diary 24. Initial stake 25. Rewrite 27. Savior 28. Boy 29. Stir up 30. Twice five 31. Summer cooler 35. French title 36. Capone and Gore 39. Parsley piece 40. Upper crust 41. Discourage 43. Volcanic flow 44. Leak 45. Slithery swimmers 46. Contains 48. CIA employee (abbr.)

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8 –

C1

VIEW FROM THE SIDELINES

The Lack Of Maturity Is Limiting Young Talent

by L. Bronson

We have seen cricketers and footballers end up stagnating their careers precisely because of immaturity early on in their career. Some made amends as late bloomers, while others simply vanished.

We've often heard that as a region (West Indies or the Caribbean) we possess a lot of young natural talent in the field of sports. However, the stark reality is that this perceived natural talent does not always translate to success on the field of play.

In fact, most times that young natural talent fails to even transition to the senior level with any degree of consistency or success, leaving many asking why.

And this situation mostly affects our boys.

Our history is replete with boys who appeared to be world-beaters at the youth level but virtually disappear into obscurity or fail to make the required transition to the senior level.

And it goes across the whole gamut of sport. But why is this so?

It is my humble view that immaturity plays a huge role in this phenomenon. Some close to sports, especially at the international level, have said many times that the region's boys have failed to truly fulfil their potential because of a lack of maturity in the wider scheme of things, which ultimately inhibits their potential for growth.

Conversely, we have many examples of our boys finally making the step up in their late 20s or early 30s, instead of as late teenagers or shortly thereafter.

This phenomenon brings into sharp focus the ever-increasing need for a proper support mechanism in a young athlete's life, as often

Hetmyer

Vassell

times they are thrust into situations for which they are mentally unprepared, and sooner rather than later they lose it all.

Based on my conversations with seniorlevel professionals, it's not unusual for talented youngsters, even those who they have mentored, to be easily distracted leading up to their games. This highlights the absolute need for the youngsters of today to arm themselves with the proper support staff if they really wish to transition to the very top of their chosen field.

And their talent means so much to these super-rich clubs that many times they help in facilitating the support they deem fit for the

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For those who might have forgotten, the great Usain Bolt has said that he has found a lot of the youngsters of present-day Jamaican athletics achieving a lot financially too early, by way of endorsements etc., without putting in the hard work at training trying to improve themselves. So they become lackadaisical and too easily satisfied, and in many ways hinder their own progress.

We have seen cricketers and footballers end up stagnating their careers precisely because of immaturity early on in their career.

Some made amends as late bloomers, while others simply vanished.

Guyanese cricketer Shimron Hetmyer is seen in some quarters as the finest batting talent since the great Brian Lara, and while showing flashes of brilliance at times, he has been far too inconsistent and immature in his reading and execution of play over time.

He was dropped for a few games and was recently axed alltogether from the on-going One-Day International Series away to Sri Lanka because of unfitness.

He earned a big-money contract to last season's Indian Premier League but failed to spark, again because he did not approach games in the right manner.

We remember young Reggae Boy PeterLee Vassell, who was contracted by Los Angeles Football Club in Major League Soccer, only to be loaned out to the lower leagues after he failed to transition into the first team.

Though they are young in age, they need to understand that they are competing in a man's world and as such, they should put away the childish things and act and behave like grown men.

It has been done before and it is being done right now in all leagues across the world.

It is a great opportunity for those agents out there to pay special attention to, especially when dealing with boys from the Caribbean, for if the athletes succeed, then the agents benefit.

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C3

Reggae Boyz’ Darren Mattocks Accused of Insurance Fraud In USA Reggae Boyz striker Darren Mattocks has fallen foul of the United States legal system, facing insurance fraud charges related to a car accident he was involved in in January 2019. US media reports indicate that the 29-year-old, who is in his second season with Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit FC Cincinnati, is accused of making a false, fraudulent or incomplete insurance claim, and theft by deception, and is on a $50,000 bail.

According to ESPN which obtained the Affidavit of Probable Cause from the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office, the felony charges stem from a car accident that occurred on the morning of January 20, 2019.

Mattocks and a passenger had been travelling in his BMW X6 from New York City to Cincinnati on State Route 70, near Monongahela, Pennsylvania, when he lost control of the vehicle driving over an ice patch. The car went over an embankment and flipped over.

The affidavit stated that at the time of the accident, the car's insurance had lapsed, but Mattocks then took out a new policy later that day and filed a claim three days later.

It added that when contacted by the insurance company, Mattocks said the accident had occurred around noon and he had acquired the insurance policy at 05:00hrs. that same day.

The insurance company investigated further and discovered inconsistencies in Mattocks' story, and he was subsequently charged.

However, his attorney David J. Shrager has

issued a statement claiming that the issue was a “misunderstanding.”

“My client respects the laws of both his native country and the United States. He has never been in any kind of criminal trouble whatsoever in his life and this matter is merely a misunderstanding regarding insurance laws here in Pennsylvania.

“We look forward to clearing up this matter.

We have been cooperating with the courts and continue to do so. We look forward to resolving this matter expeditiously,” he said.

According to court documents, Mattocks last appeared in court on the matter on January 29, the same day he missed his club's friendly against Phoenix Rising FC. His absence had been explained by the team as being due to a personal matter.

The FC Cincinnati forward is scheduled to return to court for a formal arraignment on February 27, three days before his outfit kick off their 2020 MLS regular season with a match against the New York Red Bulls.

Mattocks

Kobe Bryant's Widow Sues Helicopter Company Venessa Bryant widow of basketball great Venessa Bryant, widow of basketball great Kobe Bryant has filed a lawsuit against the operators of the helicopter that crashed on January 26 killing Kobe, his daughter Gianna and seven others.

The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday, February 24, the same day the nation saw images of Venessa Bryant valiantly paying tribute to her late husband and 13-year-old daughter, and the other victims of the tragic accident at a memorial service the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Gianna Bryant's basketball teammates

Alyssa Altobelli and Payton Chester, Altobelli's parents John and Keri, Payton's mother Sarah, and basketball coach Christina Mauser were also killed.

The lawsuit names Island Express Helicopters, Island Express Holding Corp and the estate of the helicopter's pilot, Ara Zobayan, who was among the victims.

The National Transportation Safety Board is still investigating the exact cause of the crash, although preliminary findings showed no sign of mechanical failure.

The lawsuit blames the company for allowing the helicopter to fly in “heavy fog and

low clouds” the morning of the accident, conditions which even prompted “law enforcement agencies and tour companies” to ground their helicopters.

“On information and belief, Island Express Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration's operating certificate limited its pilots to flying only under visual flight rules,” the lawsuit says.

“The subject helicopter was not licensed or certified to be flown into instrument conditions.

On information and belief, the pilot-incommand, Ara George Zobayan, was required to fly only in conditions that he could navigate visually.

“Ara George Zobayan attempted to maneuver the helicopter up and forward to clear the clouds then entered a turn, sending the helicopter into steep terrain at approximately 180 mph,” according to the suit. “Witnesses on the ground reported seeing the helicopter flying through a layer of clouds and fog before the helicopter crashed.”

The lawsuit notes that in 2015 Zobayan was cited by the FAA for violating the visual flight rules minimums by “flying into an airspace of reduced visibility from weather conditions.”

The lawsuit seeks unspecified general, economic and punitive damages.

Young Reggae Girlz defeat El Salvador 4-1

Jamaica's Under 20 women's football team cruised to a 4-1 win over El Salvador in their CONCACAF Under 20 Women's Group E match on Monday at the Stadio Panamericano in the Dominican Republic, securing advancement to the knockout phase.

Jody Brown scored twice in the second and 11th minutes, while Lacey Murray and Chantelle Parker added to the scoreline in the second half.

Mara Rodriguez got the lone goal for El Salvador two minutes into first half stoppage time, converting from the penalty spot.

The young Reggae Girlz currently lead the group with four points after drawing with Guatemala 4-4 on Saturday.

Canada and Guatemala, who are in second and third place in the group with three points and one point respectively, were also scheduled to play each other on Monday. The top three teams in the group will advance to the knockout stage of the tournament, with the best two teams qualifying for this year's Under 20 Women's World Cup in Costa Rica and Panama

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, FEB 27 – MAR 4, 2020 | VOL. 17 NO. 8

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