Caribbean National Weekly June 17, 2021

Page 1

THE MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED CARIBBEAN AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN FLORIDA

THURSDAY JUNE 17, 2021

CNWEEKLYNEWS.COM

TOP STORIES Uber Riding Into Kingston, Jamaica

by Sheri-kae McLeod, CNW Reporter

HONORED

BY THE QUEEN

for Promoting Racial Equality JAMAICA

Vybz Kartel's Phone to be Examined for Tampering By Jovani Davis CNW Contributor

The cellular phone of incarcerated dancehall artiste Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer, which contained damning text and voice messages linking him to the murder of Clive 'Lizard' Williams, is currently being analyzed by an expert for possible signs of tampering. Since 2020, Vybz Kartel's defense team has been trying to gain access to 'Exhibit 14C' i.e. the cell phone which contained controversial voice notes linking the deejay to the murder. The exhibit is among four evidential materials that the defense team had obtained permission from the Supreme Court to examine via a court order received on May 13, 2021. The order, which was made by Justice Leighton Pusey, gives the defense permission to not only analyze the cell phone but a marked DVD containing a video of the murder, DVD with voice notes, and a compact disc. continues on B4 – Vybz Kartel

Jamaican international football player Raheem Sterling has been honored by Queen Elizabeth II for his work to promote racial equality in the sport. On June 11, the Manchester City and England forward was named in the Queen's Birthday Honours list, which rewards individuals' bravery, service, or achievement in their fields. The 26-year-old, who has been heavily involved in anti-racism and antidiscrimination campaigns, has been made an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire). The MBE is an order of the British Empire award. It is the third highestranking Order of the British Empire award. It is also awarded to someone for making a positive impact in their line of work. The Jamaican-born footballer responded to the announcement, saying that he was grateful to be recognized. “I am grateful to have been recognised, but my priority is to try to help to educate society and myself,” Sterling said. “If it doesn't start from within, then there's no way you can help others. I'm learning every day.” Sterling, a Premier League and League Cup winner with City this season, has been subjected to racial slurs in stadiums and online since the start of his career. In 2019, he took part in an antiracism campaign, “No Room For Racism”. He was subsequently awarded The Integrity and Impact Award at the BT Sport Industry Awards for speaking out on a range of social issues, including continues on B4 – Sterling Honored

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

COMMUNITY

STRICTLY LEGAL

SPORTS

Another Jamaican Appointed to President Biden’s Administration A3

Guyana Formerly Recognizes Dr. Walter Rodney A4

Applying for Naturalization? Tips on Preparing for your Interview B3

More Frustration for Theodore Whitmore Ahead of Gold Cup C3

Commissioner Dale Holness Proclaims Kodak Black Day in Broward County Busby Thankful for Chance to Test Reggae Girlz at WNT Summer Series Tokyo Olympic Organizers Roll out Final Editions of COVID Rule Books St Kitts and Nevis Under Partial Lockdown for Two Weeks The Bahamas Welcomes Royal Caribbean Cruise Line British Royal Navy Delivers 75 Tons of Aid to St. Vincent & the Grenadines US Vaccine Surplus Grows by the Day as Expiration Dates Loom


A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2

Senior Drive: Broward Educa on Founda on board member Sue Colton presen ng a laptop to a gradua ng Broward County Public Schools student during the recent drive-through Senior SendOff celebra on hosted by Broward Educa on Founda on. – Contributed

Senior Send-Off: Broward Educa on Founda on in collabora on with Des na on Dorm delivered dorm essen als to Broward County public high school seniors during the recent drivethrough Senior Send-Off celebra on. (L to R): Des na on Dorm’s Meryl Raff; Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Robert Runcie and Jamie Raff of Des na on Dorm. – Contributed

The Symposium: Jamaica's Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Leslie Campbell (le ), consults with Por olio Minister, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, just before the start of the two-day virtual Jamaica Diaspora Sustainability Symposium on Wednesday (June 16). Photo: Mark Bell

Post-Covid: This young lady gets down to the music being spun by DJ Stunna on the turntables at a recent birthday party held in Sunrise recently. – Contributed

Senior Drive-Thru: Broward Educa on Founda on program director Claude e Lavoie presen ng a scholarship to Broward County Public Schools graduate Ethan Salmon-Gray during the recent drivethrough Senior Send-Off celebra on hosted by Broward Educa on Founda on. – Contributed

Stunna: DJ STUNNA shows off his skills on the turntables at a recent party in Sunrise. – Contributed

Miramar on Top: Miramar City officials come together on June 16, 2021, to celebrate Miramar winning the All America City Award. From le : Staff from State Representa ve Tom Fabricio, City of Miramar Vice Mayor Yve e Colbourne, Project Liaison and Miramar Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis, State Representa ve Marie Woodson, Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam, State Representa ve Felicia Robinson, and Miramar Commissioner Maxwell Chambers. – Contributed

All Aboard!: Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness stands in front of Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas, which docked Port Everglades on June 10, 2021. Odyssey of the Seas is homeported at Port Everglades and is Royal Caribbean’s first Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship to sail in the United States. – Contributed

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE ABOUT MARIJUANA.


CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 –

A3

Professor Renee Bowen

NEWSMAKER

Another Jamaican Appointed to Biden’s Administration Another Jamaican has been appointed to serve in the White House in President Joe Biden's administration. Professor Renee Bowen was recently appointed as the senior economist for trade with the Council of Economic Advisers. The Jamaican, who is also the pastor faculty fellow at the University of California San Diego, will hold the position for one year. She will focus on international economic issues and coordinate with other agencies, including the Office of the United States Trade Representative, the National Security Council, and the Committee on Foreign Investment in the US. Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness sent his congratulations to Bowen via social media, saying that she has Bowen, who is a daughter of the soil, “has given back to Jamaica through various policy advisory commissions. “Prof Renee Bowen will share her skills with the Biden Administration, focusing on international economic affairs & coordinating with other organisations including, the Office of the US Trade Representative, National Security Council, & the Committee on Foreign Investment in the US,” he

added. Dr. Bowen, originally from Kingston, Jamaica, earned a degree in Civil Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, but discovered her passion for economics while working on Wall Street at JPMorgan Chase. She also worked as a consultant for the World Bank where she concentrated on international trade policy for subSaharan Africa. She earned a master's and doctoral degree in Economics from

Georgetown University and has since been appointed to several world-class institutions, including most recently Stanford University prior to joining the faculty of UC San

Diego's School of Global Policy and Strategy. While living in Jamaica, she served on the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of Jamaica. Speaking on her appointment to the Biden administration, Bowen told the UC San Diego News Center: “I am extremely excited to serve in the Biden administration by providing expertise on economic policy based on data, research and evidence… I look forward to creating more opportunities to bridge the worlds of policymaking and academia to help build a better future for the United States and the world.” Professor Bowen joins Vice President Kamala Harris, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division/DOJ, Kristen Clarke and Domestic Policy Advisor, Susan Rice as Jamaican-American White House officials in the Biden administration.

LOG ON TO cnweeklynews.com


A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN St. Kitts & Nevis Under Partial Lockdown for Two Weeks

Guyana Formally Honors T Walter Rodney

In an effort to halt the spread of COVID-19, the government of St Kitts and Nevis has announced further restrictions, beginning Saturday and continuing for at least two weeks, including an 11-hour curfew. In a televised address to the nation last Friday, Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris said the decision to implement the partial lockdown was a difficult but necessary decision. “Our number one priority in this fight against COVID-19 is, and has always been, to keep our people safe and we will do whatever it takes to protect our people,” he said. “After a thorough evaluation of the situation on the ground, the Cabinet has agreed that we needed to restrict the movement of people to contain the movement of the virus. We will therefore place the country under lockdown as of Saturday, 12 June from 6 p.m. for 14 days to Saturday 26 June in the first instance.

he Guyana government on Thursday announced that it will honor prominent historian, political activist and academic, Dr. Walter Rodney, nearly 41 years after he was assassinated in the country. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, in a statement to the National Assembly, said efforts will be taken to change key details on Rodney's death certificate and make his gravesite a national monument. Nandlall said the actions follow a request by Rodney's family, his wife, children and brother, to bring a level of closure. He said although “this son of Guyana” was known and respected throughout the world for his academic accomplishments, scholarship and activism, his death certificate described him as “unemployed''. “This historical wrong will be corrected and the death certificate will be corrected to read 'Professor' instead of 'unemployed'.” continues on B4 – Walter Rodney

continues on B4 – St. Kitts Lockdown

Bermuda to Lift Most of its COVID-19 Restrictions Bermuda, which currently has only five active cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) after peaking at 904 in April, is to lift all social distancing restrictions apart from maskwearing in indoor public places and large groups. Premier David Burt told a media briefing on Tuesday night that while patience was growing thin with restrictions and lockdowns, many countries still had restrictions because of highly transmissible variants. Burt said more than 10 people could sit at a table at restaurants, land and sea restrictions would cease and the overnight curfew would end as of Sunday morning. Outdoor mask-wearing will also be

unnecessary, but masks will still be required inside buildings. Fifty-five percent of the population have now been fully vaccinated, Health Minister Kim Wilson said, adding that 2,000 children aged between 12 and 15 had received their first jab after recently getting the green light to be immunized. Meanwhile, the Bermuda Hotel Association (BHA) announced that hotel staff not vaccinated against COVID-19 will have to get tested for the coronavirus every seven days from next Tuesday. The BHA said the policy would apply in all its member hotels. “The purpose of the policy is to ensure that

all non-immunized hotel employees are aware of their health status as a means of protecting themselves, their co-workers, family members, visitors and guests, as well as all members of the wider community,” a BHA spokesperson said. “The hotel industry as a key employer wishes to ensure that we exercise a heightened level of care for the safety of everyone as we seek to successfully achieve the reopening of our tourism economy.” The policy is in line with the government's controversial mandatory quarantine restrictions for non-immunized travelers, which is expected to come into force on June 24, the measure having originally been due to come into place on June 6 but twice put back.

Seven hotel properties — including the Fairmont Southampton which is undergoing renovations and is not open to the public — will be used as quarantine centers. Travelers must pick one of the locations, cover the cost of the stay themselves and book before arrival in Bermuda. A fresh batch of 4,680 doses of the Pfizer vaccine sent by the British government is due to arrive on June 24 from London, Government House has announced. Britain has already sent around 80,000 doses of the vaccine to the island, a British Overseas Territory. In all, Bermuda has carried out almost 300,000 COVID-19 tests, resulting in 2,499 positive cases. – (CMC)

FREIGHT CONSOLIDATORS

! l a i c e p s Summer ARRELS B ! 3 pay FOR ING BR

4

GET 1 FREE!

STARTING AT

Hassle free clearance Fastest transit times

Best prices guaranteed We load containers daily! Door to Door Service


CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 –

Talk Up!

A5

TALKUP

Is the steady increase in gas prices affecting you? Are you driving less?

You can also look for us in Jamaica

Dental Place Cosmetix Spa Winchester Business Center 15 Hope Road, Shop #5, Kgn 10 Ph: 876-630-4710 Fax: 876-630-4276


A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

editorial

A Step in the Right Direction Trinidad and Tobago Senate Approves Law to Allow Public to Access Sex Offender Website The Trinidad and Tobago Senate on Tuesday night approved legislation that gives the public the right to access a sex offender website providing names, photographs and date of birth of convicted persons a move welcomed by Trinidadians both at home and across the diaspora. The Sexual Offences Amendment that was passed without opposition is seen as a step in the right direction making Trinidad the first CARICOM country to have a public sex offender registry. Currently, only Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Belize have Sex Offender Registry Laws in some form. The rest of CARICOM have nothing properly institutionalized to help local police authorities monitor potential nefarious activity by sex offenders. Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi, who piloted the bill, said it is intended to create two registers: The National Sex Offender Register, which would be private and for the use of law enforcement only, and the Public Sex Offender Website, which would be accessible by the public. The website would be under the control of the Commissioner of Police. Mr. Al-Rawi said convicted people would have their names added to the public register unless they appealed to the court not to do so for a valid reason, such as in the case of incest. He said granting this appeal would be at the discretion of the courts. Though this is a welcomed move and we give all commendations to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and encourage other Caribbean countries to follow suit, the journey to making the registry public was not however smooth sailing. We can recall back in February when the people of Trinidad out of frustration with the registry not being public created an unofficial sex offenders' registry to red-flag men who have been charged with sexual offences. The registry of violent offenders against women in Trinidad and Tobago was established by a group

Attorney General Faris AlRawi, who piloted the bill, said it is intended to create two registers: The National Sex Offender Register, which would be private and for the use of law enforcement only, and the Public Sex Offender Website, which would be accessible by the public.

P.O.Box 551712 Davie, FL 33355 advertising@cnweeklynews.com www.cnweeklynews.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EMERITUS Dr. Garth A. Rose grose@cnweeklynews.com

MANAGING EDITOR Shanique Palmer spalmer@cnweeklynews.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrew Karim akarim@cnweeklynews.com

EDITORIAL called “My Trini Experience”. The website provides a database of persons who were charged and named in newspaper reports. The alleged offender's names and photographs are in the registry and a link to the news story which reported the charge. The page states clearly that it is not an official Government information site. This, however, prompted the government to begin the process of updating the registry to include all offenders and subsequently making it public leaving us to wonder if the people of Jamaica, Belize and other Caribbean countries will have to take a similar route for their respective governments to consider a public sex offender registry. Though some may argue that a public sex offender registry is a violation of human rights others believe sex offenders should face the full brunt of the law” as the registry is aimed at

deterring, punishing and shaming rapists, pedophiles and others with a propensity to commit sexual offences. Here in the United States, for example, interested members of the public have access to and may search participating Jurisdiction Website public information regarding the presence or location of offenders who, in most cases, have been convicted of sexually violent offenses against adults and children and certain sexual contact and other crimes against victims who are minors. The public can use this Website to educate themselves about the possible presence of such offenders in their local communities. This might not be the be-all and end-all to sexual offenses, but the Trinidad and Tobago government must be lauded for their efforts as this is definitely a step in the right direction to deterrence.

editor@cnweeklynews.com

SPORTS EDITOR Don Anthony sports@cnweeklynews.com

ADVERTISING/CIRCULATION Hugh Ferguson advertising@cnweeklynews.com hferguson@cnweeklynews.com

Tel: 954-739-6618 Fax: 954-765-6199

LOG ON TO CNWEEKLYNEWS.COM


CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 –

A7

la section haitienne

'Unprecedented' Rise in Violence Across Haiti Displaces Thousands The United Nations said that an upsurge in deadly clashes between gangs in the capital of Haiti, Portau-Prince, has displaced more than 5,000 people since the beginning of the month. The UN, citing preliminary estimates from its humanitarian agency, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said people are fleeing to safer areas to stay with relatives, though many others, including children, are sleeping outside or in informal shelters. UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the newly displaced require urgent assistance and protection.

“Priority needs include sanitation, shelter, access to clean water and food”, he told reporters last Thursday. “Response efforts are underway to assist

some 2,000 of the most vulnerable people. These efforts are led by the Municipality and Civil Protection, with the support of the UN,” the spokesperson added.

The UN said that the violence has left several people dead, or injured, as rival gangs battle to exert control over populous areas such as Martissant, Cité-Soleil and Bel Air. Hundreds of homes and small businesses have also been burned. It said that the latest displacement adds to the more than 4,000 people uprooted in Haiti in the last 12 months due to similar incidents. OCHA reported that the national police force is often not able to provide security and protection during the clashes, leaving vulnerable populations to fend for themselves. It said police stations have also come under fire. One policeman was killed and another injured when armed assailants attacked all three police stations in Cité-Soleil on Saturday, stealing several weapons. “The unprecedented level of violence and subsequent displacements is creating a host of secondary issues, such as the disruption of community-level social functioning, family separation, increased financial burdens on host families, forced school closures, loss of livelihoods and a general fear among the affected populations,” OCHA said in a situation report earlier this week. The UN and partners said they are closely coordinating with the Haitian authorities to ensure humanitarian access. – (CMC)

Prime Minister of Haiti gets 30 Days Extension in Office Prime Minister of Haiti, Claude Joseph has thanked President Jovenel Moise for extending his tenure as head of the government for another 30 days. “While recognizing the enormity of the challenges of the moment, I am convinced that with the commitment of solidarity and the frank collaboration of all members of the Government, we will continue to rise to the task.,” Joseph said in a statement as he “warmly” thanked Moise “for having kindly placed his trust in me to lead the interim Government”. Last weekend, Moise announced he was “renewing” the mandate given to Joseph “for the same duration” even as he acknowledged that “the time has come to find a favourable outcome to this crisis which has lasted for 35 years”. The constitutional referendum in Haiti that had been scheduled for June 27, had been postponed “sine die” after the country experienced an upsurge in the coronavirus (COVID-19) cases. It would have been the first referendum in the country since 1987. It was unilaterally proposed by the Moise administration even as the opposition maintained calls to boycott the event. Moise had said that the referendum was necessary as the government moves to reform the constitution. He has been facing calls for his resignation and has been ruling by decree after legislative elections due in 2018 were delayed and following disputes on when his own term ends. The presidential, legislative and local elections are scheduled for September. In April, Moise named Joseph as the new prime minister, after the holder of the post, Joseph Jouthe announced that he has resigned, as the country faced a spike in killings and kidnappings. Jouthe had served as prime minister since March 2020. In his statement, accepting the 30-day extension, Joseph said the government was again inviting “the friends of the opposition to seize the outstretched hand of the Head of State, to sit at the table of dialogue with a view to the conclusion of an agreement leading to the establishment of a Government of national understanding”.


A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T


CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 –

B1

COMMUNITY CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Miramar Announces Island-Hopping Experience The City of Miramar has announced an Island-Hopping Experience that will take place at Shirley Branca Park located at 6900 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33023 on Saturday, June 19, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The event is part of the City’s month-long celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month which kicked off June 1, 2021. Guests will be able to make their way around the park, which will feature a Caribbean showcase from various islands, while enjoying art, culture, and entertainment from their favorite island. Miramar Commissioner Maxwell Chambers will host the event and is partner-

ing with Smiley Girl Entertainment and the SAEDINTRA Foundation to facilitate a free concert benefitting the victims of the La Soufrière Volcano eruption in St. Vincent and the Grenadines which took place earlier this year. The eruption forced upwards of 16,000 people to evacuate while leaving the entire population without clean drinking water. A donation drive will be held at the event to collect non-perishable and essential items such as water, canned food, and toiletries. St. Vincent’s Kevin Lyttle will headline the concert event, which will also feature performances by Haiti’s Mikaben and the Tennors from Jamaica.

Commissioner Chambers stated, “This is going to be an unforgettable experience and a great opportunity to bring out the entire family to have some fun while supporting a great cause. Guests will also be able to conveniently get the COVID-19 vaccine on-site at the park while they safely enjoy the sights and sounds of the Caribbean. Don’t forget to bring your flags and represent your country!” The Island-Hopping Experience is free to the public with registration available at www.IslandHoppingExperience.Eventbrite.co m. Food, drinks, and Caribbean products will be available for sale.

Commissioner Dale Holness Proclaims Kodak Black Day in Broward County Popular rapper Kodak Black was honored by Jamaicanborn Commissioner Dale Holness for his charitable work in Broward County. On Friday, Holness declared June 11 Kodak Black Day. The Pompano Beach native was honored with the proclamation at a charity basketball tournament to coincide with Kodak Black’s 24th birthday. The event took place at the Coral Springs Gymnasium and raised $5,000 for the Lippman Youth Shelter in Oakland Park. During the presentation of the honor, Holness lauded Kodak for his charitable

Kodak Black

works and accomplishments in the field of music. The proclamation detailed Kodak’s charitable work over the years, which includes donating a years’ worth of basic

items such as diapers, underwear and socks to the Jack & Jill Children’s Center in Fort Lauderdale. Additionally, Kodak has contributed monetary donations to fuel the holidays for families. He provided funds so community groups could distribute 1,000 turkeys to people in need. He also tapped into his Christmas spirit and donated more than $20,000 to purchase toys and other items to be used as presents. Kodak’s $100,000 contribution to the “families of fallen FBI agents” was also cited on the proclamation. The rapper, who is Haitian-American, said the proclamation means more to him than any platinum album.

Introducing the Jamaica Diaspora Champions 2021 The Jamaica Diaspora Taskforce Action Network (JDTAN) has announced the 2021 recipients of the Jamaica Diaspora and Friends Champion Award. The award is the first global and virtual Jamaica Diaspora peer award with completely open and online nominations and voting and was created to recognize individuals, organizations, and friends in the Diaspora who make exceptional contributions to the development of Jamaica. JDAFCA was launched in 2017 at the 7th Biennial Diaspora Conference and honors hardworking volunteers, all those unsung heroes, who give freely in service to the growth of Jamaica's national development, culture, economy, people, and communities. After hundreds of nominations and thousands of votes for this year's awards, the nominees with the most votes by sector were awarded and twelve have emerged as Jamaica Diaspora Champions. This year's champions are: Ÿ

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Steve McDonald: Yaad Market – The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Agriculture and Climate Resilience is Yaad Market Alexandra P. Davis: Miramar Commissioner – The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Art and Culture Keri-Ann Knight: The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Community Development The Jamaica Diaspora Champion continues on B4 – Diaspora Champions


B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T


CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 –

B3

STRICTLY LEGAL

Tips On Preparing For Your Naturalization Interview Important: Be sure to review all the questions beginning on page 12 through 15 so you are familiar with what you will be asked, since some ofcers will ask you every single one of them!

M

ost U.S. Residents who apply for naturalization feel excited about the prospect of becoming a U.S. Citizen, but very nervous and apprehensive about taking the required Civics test. That is why it's important to understand that much more happens at the interview than just taking the test and properly preparing for all the aspects of the appointment will help you to feel more confident and ensure that your interview goes smoothly. It generally takes about six to eight months (or longer due to covid-19 delays) to be scheduled for your naturalization appointment after the application is filed. So of course, there is plenty of time to study for the Civics test in order to answer up to 10 of the 100 civics questions, of which 6 must be correct and to write a simple sentence in English, as dictated by the officer.

What happens at the interview Once you have arrived for your naturalization appointment and gone through security, you will need to checkin at the front desk, give the personnel your interview notice and show your green card as identification. After checking in, you will be directed to go to the waiting room in order to wait to be called for your interview. Take this time to relax, think calming thoughts and feel empowered, knowing that you will pass the test with flying colors! Within 15 minutes to an hour or so, the officer will call your name and have you follow them to the office. Once you arrive at the office, they will generally have you remain standing, raise your right hand and swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, to which you answer, “yes”. After that, the officer will ask you to take a seat and

request your green card, driver's license and passport. From this point, many officers will immediately begin the civics test questions, then once complete, have you write a sentence in English (dictated by the officer) on a USCIS provided iPad. After the test, the officer will usually print out a paper saying you have passed the testing portion of the examination. The next part involves review of your naturalization application. Most officers will go over every single question from the beginning of your application to the end. So be sure to review your application a few days before your appointment so that it is fresh in your mind and to update the officer on address, employment or other changes to your application. Importantly, be sure to review all the questions beginning on page 12 through 15 so you are familiar with what you will be asked, since some officers will ask you every single one!

SAFARI

Monday-Friday 8:30am-6pm Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm

Open

7 days

*All statutory fees will still apply and has to be paid. A valid ID, TRN and Power of Attorney are required

Packaging and Creating service available. Door To Door service in Jamaica Special package for returning resident.

3790 NW 16th St. Lauderhill, FL 33311

954-581-4655 4711 N. Australian Ave. WPB, FL 33407

561-844-2820

Biden

On May 14, 2021, President Joe Biden issued a Presidential Proclamation revoking Trump's previous Proclamation requiring immigrants to provide proof of health insurance before being allowed to immigrate. Under the previous administration, immigrants were required to prove they would obtain qualifying health insurance within 30 days of entering the U.S. or that they had the financial resources to cover medical expenses. In signing the new directive, Biden continues on the course of systematically reversing most of the Trump era anti-immigration policies, instead, calling for a “fair and humane” immigration system. This comes on the heels of Biden's revocation of Trump's “public charge” rule earlier this year, which had allowed Trump administration officials to deny residency to legal immigrants who were deemed to receive public benefits in the future or had done so in the past (i.e. Medicaid or food stamps).

! h s u r e h t t a Be

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING, INC. Avoid the hassle and long wait. For your convenience we will also clear customs for you at a minimal fee!

LOG ON TO cnweeklynews.com

Biden Revokes Health Insurance Requirements for Immigrants

ton s g n i K o t l e r r Any ba ay B o g e t n o M r o $ only

50

Barrels, Boxes, Furniture & Equipment Whatever your shipping needs to Jamaica Call Safari! Ask about our services to other Caribbean Islands. Be covid safe. We offer pick up, customs clearance & delivery services.

Shipping to Jamaica? Think Safari! Offer subject to change without notice.


B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CONTINUATIONS Sterling Honored

from A1

racism, that same year. During the height of the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, following the death of George Floyd, Raheem Sterling was also one of the English Premier League players that replaced their names on their soccer jersey with the racial justice logo “Black Lives Matter.” The award comes just days after England players were booed by fans for taking the knee to protest against racial injustice before friendly matches ahead of Euro 2020. Sterling expressed “real disappointment” that some fans have not understood the reasons behind it. In England's first match of the Euro 2020 against Croatia on June 13, Sterling justified his starter selection by scoring the only goal of the game, giving the Three Lions a deserved 1-0 win. The Queen's Birthday Honors List includes 262 people, many of whom have been recommended for coronavirus-related activities.

Vybz Kartel

from A1

The defense lawyers have blamed the The items are to be made police for altering the phone's data and available to the defense possibly concocting the damning message that was sent from the deejay's phone. examiner on the condition Attorney-at-law Isat Buchanan, who is that the items do not leave representing Palmer, said that the defense has always taken the position that there was Jamaica and that the “significant tampering” with cell phone examiner not tamper with evidence. The items are to be made available to the or change the original defense examiner on the condition that the exhibit or any material. The items do not leave Jamaica and that the examiner not tamper with or change the items are to be examined original exhibit or any material. The items are in the presence of an to be examined in the presence of an officer of the court and an expert from the Crown. officer of the court and an The court also ordered that the items expert from the Crown. should only be handled by an officer of the court and the approved examiner. Vybz Kartel, along with fellow entertainer Shawn 'Shawn Storm' Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John, was convicted for August 16, 2011, murder of Williams in Havendale, St Andrew, but are seeking to have their life sentences overturned at the Privy Council. “We are just awaiting the date for the appeal,” Isat Buchanan said. Kartel was sentenced to 35 years before parole and St John, 30 years. The other two convicts were ordered to serve 20 years before being eligible for parole, but the accused each had two years shaved off their sentences following their appeal. Attorney-at-law John Clark is representing Jones and St John, while attorney-atlaw Bert Samuels is representing Campbell.

Walter Rodney from A4

The 38-year-old Rodney was killed on June 13, 1980, by a bomb that had been placed in his car.His brother, Donald Rodney, who was injured in the explosion, said that a sergeant in the Guyana Defence Force, named Gregory Smith, had given Walter the bomb that killed him. After the killing, Smith fled to French Guiana, where he died in 2002. In April this year, the Court of Appeal, set aside the conviction that linked the 69-year-old Donald Rodney to the assassination of his brother. The Court of Appeal also set aside the 18-month sentence for possession of explosives against Rodney, said to have been the only eyewitness to assassination of his brother, who was the co-leader of the Working People's Alliance (WPA). In 2014, a Commission of Inquiry declared that Rodney's death was not a misadventure but rather an assassination and the Attorney General told legislators that the death certificate will be amended to delete the words ''misadventure'' as the cause of death. The Rodney Gravesite and Memorial are currently being managed collaboratively between the Rodney family and the National Trust but the government intends to have it declared a National Monument to fall fully under the administration of the National Trust. Nandlall told the National Assembly that one of the greatest tragedies from Rodney's death is the loss of his scholarship to the people of Guyana. He said to this end, the books he wrote will be placed on the national syllabus by the Ministry of Education and in the hands of primary and secondary school students across Guyana. Additionally, his other major works, including, A History of the Guyanese Working People, Guyanese Sugar Plantations in the late Nineteenth Century, and How Europe Underdeveloped Africa, shall be made available to the library of the University of Guyana. The Walter Rodney Chair at the University of Guyana will also be re-established, Nandlall said, adding that every effort will be made to remove and expunge all public records that intimate any level of guilt or wrongdoing by Dr Walter Rodney in relation to the June 13, 1980 bombing. “We have already begun and will continue our efforts to secure the record of the 2014 Commission of Inquiry. Those records will be digitised by our National Archives, recently renamed the Walter Rodney National Archives,” he added. – (CMC)

St. Kitts Lockdown

from A4

“Under this lockdown, the Cabinet has determined that people should stay at home over the next two weeks. There shall be a curfew daily from 6:00 pm to 5:00 am,” the Prime Minister added. He said that under the new restrictions, all essential businesses and offices may continue their business operations by allowing their employees to work remotely from home utilizing virtual means, unless those employees are permitted to work under special exemption or are designated as being essential workers. All gaming establishments will be closed, there will be absolutely no mass events, beaches are to be used for the purpose of exercise only during this period, there will be no street vending for the next 14 days in the first instance and vending will only be allowed at the public market with controlled spaces where strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols must be observed. Moreover, there will be no in-person dining at restaurants and bars; however, take-out and delivery will be permitted and ferry service operations will be subject to heightened restrictions to curtail nonessential inter-island travel. The Prime Minister noted that security officers will be out in their numbers enforcing protocols with respect to social distancing and masks wearing. Persons not in compliance with these protocols will be penalized, he said. At an emergency meeting of the Federal Cabinet on Thursday, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Hazel Laws informed that the number of positive cases continued to grow. It was reported that there were 11 positive cases on Wednesday and another 25 were recorded on Thursday. That brought the total number of cases recorded since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to 155, an increase of 111 cases in a few short weeks. “Thankfully, 61 of these cases are fully recovered while 94 remain active, with four hospitalized, one being very ill,” Dr. Harris said. “We have listened carefully to the health professionals and have been guided by the science. That is precisely why we took tough measures early to contain the virus.”

Diaspora Champions from B1

Ÿ Ÿ

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

954.739.6618

Community Development Organization is Association of Jamaican Nationals in France, accepted by current President, Oneil Madden Dr. Beverly E Rowe-Mullings: The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Education The Jamaica Diaspora Champion Alumni Association is Immaculate Conception High School Alumnae Association – NY Chapter, accepted by current President, Karen WilsonRobinson The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Faith Based Leadership is Bishop Michael A. Hutchinson The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Health and Mental Health is Sylvanus Thompson The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Legal Sector Support and Immigration is Latangie A. William The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Media is Xavier Murphy The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Technology and Entrepreneurship is David P. A. Mullings The Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Taskforce Leadership is Dr. Beverly Gordon

The profiles of the winners and all honorably mentioned nominees can be viewed on www.jdafca.org. The public can watch the Jamaica Diaspora Champions 2021 accept their awards on Diaspora Day, Wednesday, June 16 at 7 PM US ET on Jamaicans.com's Facebook Live: @onelovejamaica and jdafca.org.


CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 –

C1

ENTERTAINMENT

Turbulence Gives “The Remedy” After Years on Hiatus by Ramona Samuels CNW Entertainment Reporter International reggae star Turbulence is back with 'The Remedy', a new 12 track digital album with hypnotizingly uplifting and emotional lyrics, backed by soulful reggae beats. The production's release was done by French group Neva Stop Booking on June 11. The 12 track reggae masterpiece features only one collaboration with Anthony B, titled 'Defenders', which was also the first promotional release for the production.

The songwriter whose real name is Sheldon Campbell says, “the reason why it took me so long to release another album was because I already had so many albums out there, so in building anticipation, here goes 'The Remedy' on all digital platforms”. High-pitched raspy vocals inflect to a soft and melodic tone as the singjay delivers through verses carefully to express the mood of each track, giving a commanding appeal to the listener. Perfectly mixed with sweet traditional reggae backing all but two tracks. On 'Let's Go', the album's first song, one drop drums help to tell the story of a man

Jesse Royal Drops 'MultiGenre Inspired' Reggae Album encouraging his woman to pack up and go away in the name of love, despite her parents and family telling her to “leave the bobo man alone”. This leads to the album's second track, 'Celebration of Life', an encouraging song, ideally suited for play when the spirit is down. As the tracks play out from one to the other, elements of alternative and rock samples are evident, with inspirations from familiar songs lyrically touched by Turbulence roaring signature sound. Music videos for select songs will complement the album's release over the next few months.

Usain Bolt Eyes Grammy Award After winning numerous medals and sports awards throughout his track and field career, retired Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt is now eyeing another prestigious award – a Grammy. The 34-year-old, who made his debut as a dancehall music producer with the Olympe Rose Riddim in 2019, says his end goal in music is to win a Grammy award. “That would be the biggest thing for me,” he said in an interview with World Music Views podcast. Bolt, who still has the title of the fastest man alive, mentioned that from a very early age, his father taught him not to think about limits, so whatever he wanted he went after it

in full confidence. He spoke of always loving music and has more time on his hands to pursue it in lockdown due to the pandemic. The 100m and 200m world record holder also said he is taking his time to carefully learn about the music industry. He says he wants to make the right connections and put in quality work. He spoke of discipline and incorporating what he has learned from his sport and applying it to the music industry. “I have been learning that it is totally different from what I am used to. So I work with people who understand that a time is a

time. I am not one of those people to do something halfway. Artists in Jamaica are not used to people correcting them but that's one thing I am bringing to the table. I will take from Track and Field and apply to music,” Bolt said during the interview. Usain Bolt, who recently featured on Spotify's Taste playlist, also spoke of eventually signing with his own artists and owning all the rights to his masters. In early January 2021, Bolt released a single titled Living The Dream with his childhood friend and manager Nugent 'NJ' Walker

The wait is over. Jesse Royal's much anticipated second album 'Royal' is out now. The 11 track production released on June 11 by Easy Star records, takes listeners on a journey of truthful insights, fused with beats of colorful reggae splendor. The album opens with the soulreaching, 'High Tide' featuring Samory I. Jesse starts off quoting profoundly, “a fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his own opinion”, which puts the listener in a moment of pause, reflecting quickly, before the beat leads into a hip hop, jazz intermixed set, positioning the tone for 'Royal's' lyrically uncharted and rhythmically diverse intrigue. Jesse explains, “on this album, you will hear elements of hip-hop, jazz, blues, Afrobeats and dancehall but reggae is the backbone that holds everything in place. We can't run from the authentic energy and vibes bestowed upon us by the Most High because that is what makes us great; there are things that you learn along the way, but greatness is when you know yourself.” The reggae star has been promoting the release of 'Royal' with the recent release of music videos for 'Rich Forever' featuring Vybz Kartel and shortly after 'Dirty money' done with Stone Bwoy. With empowering songs like 'Black', eye-opening ballad-inspired lyrics from 'Home', and the fun upbeat pop-inclined track 'Like Dat' featuring multi-talented producer Runkus; 'Royal' is a must-listento body of work.


C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

MARKETPLACE BANKRUPTCY - FORECLOSURE DEFENSE Immigration Credit Restoration Real Estate Civil & Business Litigation

D&S LAW GROUP P.A ELIAS LEONARD DSOUZA, ESQ. www.DsouzaLegalGroup.com

Email: dtdlaw@aol.com

8751 W. Broward Blvd St 301, Plantation FL 33324

1451 West Cypress Creek Road, Suite 300, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

Free Initial Consultation

954.535.0827

Payment Plans Available

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

Palm Beach County’s #1 Funeral & Cremation Provider to the Caribbean Community Shama Rhoden

Kilon Rhoden

Tel: 561.557.4739 lakesidefuneralcare.com

GIVE YOUR

BUSINESS A

PUNCH!

Advertise with the National Weekly and give your business the extra punch it needs to drive customers. Backed by the power of a CVC Audit, you’ll be sure that you’re getting your bang for your buck! Call us today! Tel: 954.739.6618

www.cnweeklynews.com

MEDIX URGENT CARE CENTER Don’t spend hours in the emergency room. Come to us for... Cough, Colds, Flu, Pregnancy Tests Suture Repair & Removal

Medication Re ills Immunizations ...and all minor care

G License Physical....... $45 CPR............................. $45/$65 Inservices.................... $10 each IV Vitamins..................$65 & up

Immigration Medicals

35

$

School, Sports and Work Physicals Mon.-Fri: 9am – 7pm Sat: Closed Sun: 11am – 5pm

954.484.8444

954.589.1238

2331 N. State Rd. 7, Suite 102, Lauderhill, FL 33313

3829 Hollywood Blvd. Ste A Hollywood, FL 33021

www.medixucc.com

SISTER ALBERTA GOD GIFTED SPIRITUAL ADVISOR & LIFE COACH Live Life Without the Problems that are Blocking your Inner Peace & Joy. Jealous people Can Set You Back & Block You From Obtaining Your Goals More Than You Will Ever Know. Sister Alberta has Over 30 Years of Experience in Solving All Troubles of Life Such As Generation Curses, Evil Influence, Sickness, Reuniting loved ones, etc,

One call will truly convince you free reading by phone

954-770-0984 All Readings & Spiritual Cleanings are dobe in the privacy of here home in Broward 100% Guaranteed.


CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 –

C3

SPORTS SOCCER/ GOLD CUP

More Frustration for Theodore Whitmore Ahead of Gold Cup By L. Bronson CNW Sports Contributor Reggae Boyz head coach Theodore Whitmore is unconvinced that his charges are ready for a title run at the CONCACAF Gold Cup in the US in under a month's time. And the former Reggae Boy star player is not being flippant with his views, but more realistic because of the evidence staring him in the face based on happenings at the last few FIFA Windows. Whitmore and members of the local delegation returned to Jamaica on Monday after a two-game series in Japan. The Boyz drew the first against Serbia, before being humiliated by the Japan Olympic team 4-0. But as is now the norm, it was anything but smooth sailing for Whitmore to properly plan and execute in preparation for the Gold Cup and then the CONCACAF FIFA World Cup qualifiers starting in September. The Boyz were originally slated for three games, including an opener against Japan senior team, but on the eve of departure to the far East, a number of players, including senior members, withdrew for one reason or another. And to make matters worse, the Englandbased players were denied boarding rights to Japan from their connection in Amsterdam due to inadequate COVID-19 test clearance certificates, forcing the Japan Football Association to cancel the game against Japan because the visitors could not field a full team. So Whitmore's 30-man squad eventually ended up at 19, including three goalkeepers. Far from what he had envisaged when he crafted his plan of action.

“ Whitmore

Then came news that a number of the players in Japan had not yet received their Jamaican Passports, a necessary document for eligibility for participation in any organised competition. “Firstly, we had set out to play three games and we were looking at the trip to Japan as a

When we take into consideration the time spent together, going into the Gold Cup we are going to miss a lot in terms of the chemistry, the physical conditioning of the team and team bonding and building going into the Gold Cup. – Whitmore

pre-Gold Cup camp. As you know, the original squad we selected to come to Japan was a 30man strong one, and this would have been the group that we wanted to play in the Gold Cup. “When we take into consideration the time spent together, going into the Gold Cup we are going to miss a lot in terms of the chemistry, the physical conditioning of the team and team bonding and building going into the Gold Cup,” Whitmore told the Jamaican media. He added, “We have lost some time on this tour heading into the Gold Cup, and then again, when you look at it the Gold Cup is just a few weeks away, and at this stage we have a number of players out injured and we don't know what condition we are going to get them in,” he said. “It's a risk to select this Gold Cup squad not knowing the conditions of the players,” insisted Whitmore. This past Monday was the deadline for submission of the provisional list of 60 players to CONCACAF, but the coach was unclear of the eligibility of some foreign-born players. “That is a concern (players without passport), but we have to take some licks for that. Personally, I don't believe any player should represent the country and don't have Jamaican citizenship, or don't have a Jamaican passport. And if my memory serves me well, I think it's a long-standing policy of the federation,” said Whitmore. Some of the English-born players who participated on the Japan tour were not holders of Jamaican passports, though their applications were said to be advanced in many of the cases. “Right now, all we have to do is hope and keep our fingers crossed and see where we go from here,” said the coach.

CRICKET / SOUTH FLORIDA CRICKET ALLIANCE

St. Bess Aame Away Victorious over Tropics United in QuarterFinal play of South Florida Cricket Alliance 30-over Competition By David Maitland Sports Contributor

St. Bess came out victorious over their opponents Tropics United in South Florida Cricket Alliance 30 over Quarter-Final play at John Mullins Park in Lauderhill last Sunday. Tropics won the toss and gave St. Bess the first strike. They open the inning with inform batsman; Jamaica senior team representative Zeniffe Fowler and Hanesworth Wallace. The pair put on a 61 run partnership for the first wicket before Wallace departed contributing 23. Captain Brian Gayle came to the crease to accompany Fowler and the pair added 149

runs before the fall of the second wicket with Gayle getting 63 (4 fours, 5 sixes) from fortysix ball. Fowler was eventually out bowled in the 27 over for 127 runs (14 fours, 7sixes) from eighty-five balls. This was Fowler's third century in a row. Sherwyn Powell made a quick fire 55 (5 fours, 4 sixes) from twentyeight balls to complete a mammoth 315 for 6 in the allotted 30 overs for St. Bess. Bowling for Tropics, Philerm Davis took 3 wickets for 73 from six overs. Replying, Tropics United was bowled out for 268 in 28.4 overs. Former Jamaica representative Gavin Wallace scored 93 (8 fours, 8 sixes) from 55 balls and Bert Davis 55 (5 fours, 3 sixes) to put up a rear-guard fight. Bowling St. Bess to a 47 runs victory were Herlando Johnson 3 for 37, Clevon Sailsman 3 for 56, Sherwyn Powell 2 for 37 and Theomar Blair 2 for 52.

Upcoming Semi-Final Games for Sunday June 20 Ambassador vs. St. Bess at John Prince Park in Lake Worth in West Palm Beach This Game should be a high scoring match with the inform Zeniffe Fowler with three centuries in a row, backed up by skipper Brian Gayle, Sherwyn Powell, Hanesworth Wallace and Keniel Irving. Hoping to bowl St. Bess to victory is rest on the shoulder of Herlando Johnson, Sherwyn Powell, Brian Gayle and Clevon Sailsman. Ambassador batting rest on the opening pair of captains Kenroy Wright and Keyone Gayle, Handale Martin and Carnell White. Ambassador will depend on Leon Tulloch, Keyone Gayle, Mark Laing and Carnell White for bowling.

St. Lucie vs. Underdogz at Girl Scout Friendship Park in Port St. Lucie With Undergodogz the only team to defeat St. Lucie in the regular season and St. Lucie looking for revenge this game should be a well fought game. Underdogz will be looking to USA representative Timothy Surujbally, Captain Tariq Hossain and Stefan Babulal to make the runs, and Dennis Durant, USA representative Kyle Phillips Anand Maharaj for Bowling. St. Lucie will be looking to SFCA leading runs scorer Mark Pinnock, allrounder Charles Reid, Elton Tucker Jr. and skipper Richard Louis to carry the batting, while in the bowling department Charles Reid, Richard Louis, Glen Angling and Shyram Negi is expected to carry the load.


C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JUN 17 – JUN 23, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.