Caribbean National Weekly May 27, 2021

THE MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED CARIBBEAN AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN FLORIDA

THURSDAY MAY 27, 2021

CNWEEKLYNEWS.COM

More Caribbean-Americans Need to

Get Vaccinated!

Says Broward County Mayor

TOP STORIES Americans Mark the One Year Anniversary of George Floyd’s Death Haitian Women’s Group Welcomes Extension of TPS

By Sheri-Kae McLeod CNW Reporter

The large CaribbeanAmerican community in Broward County is being called out for their reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccination.

Veteran Reggae Boy Defender and Former Leicester City Cpt. Wes Morgan Retires Remembering Bobby Digital — Iconic Jamaican Producer

We’ve seen vaccine hesitancy particularly among the English-speaking and Frenchspeaking Caribbean-American communities. Again, it does not maer your age, ethnicity, or national origin. I am urging everybody to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community. Get vaccinated. COVID is not over,” Despite the CDC announcing that vaccinated Americans can ditch masks and social distancing, the United States is still on a quest to achieve herd immunity. In the state of Florida, with the easing of restrictions, the COVID-19 vaccination rate in South Florida has slowed dramati-

Remember Our Commitments

Jamaican-born Winsome Earle Sears Wins Republican Party Nod for Lt. Gov.

Broward Sheriff Speaks on Anniversary of George Floyd Murder All across the United States, Americans gathered on Tuesday to honor George Floyd and mark the year since he died at the hands of Minneapolis police, a death captured on wrenching bystander video that galvanized the racial justice movement and continues to bring calls for change.

In the aftermath of Floyd’s death, major changes were announced in police departments across the country. The Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) formed a new social justice task force to help bring about positive changes within the organization and improve relations between residents and the police. On the

anniversary of Floyd’s death, Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony said all organizations including his own have a responsibility to follow through on the commitments made after George Floyd’s death.

“We need to look at what happened a year ago and remember the detrimental effects it had on a global scale, not just here in the United States. Some 50 plus states and 18 countries around the world have pushed for some form of protest and called for equality and justice for minorities and Black folks across the world,” he said in a video statement.

“So we have a responsibility to remember the

continues on B4 – Hesitancy

continues on B4 – Our Commitments

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

Kristen Clarke: First Black Woman To Lead DOJ Civil Rights Division A3

Jamaican 16-Y-O Recruited for NASA Internship A4

Jesse Royal Music Video with Vybz Kartel Trending B3

“The Show Must Go On” says JOA President Christopher Samuda C1

New Cuban Policy Leaves Outbound Travelers Stuck With Pesos Guyana Schools to Remain Closed Until New Term

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 Styling: The male models were not to be outdone. They showed up and showed out.

Photo credit: Luke Ballen ne.

Fashion Over Style: (Far Le ) Harrell of Harrell's Menswear; (2nd from le ) Mayor Rogers; (4th from le ) Vice Mayor Denise Grant; (6th from le ) Commissioner, Joy Smith; and (far right) Karrelle Chang, president of the Lauderhill Chambers Commerce are surrounded by members of the male models who took part in fashion. – Photo by Luke Ballen ne

Pre y in Pink: One of the female models struts her stuff on the runway as part of the fashion show. Photo Credit: Luke Ballen ne

On Sunday, May 23rd, Vice Mayor Denise D. Grant of the City of Lauderhill in partnership with the Lauderhill Chambers of Commerce hosted a brunch and fashion show honoring the cosmetology industry as part of a month long recogni on of Small Business Month in the City of Lauderhill. The event held at the historic Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens welcomed guests of all areas of cosmetology including hairstylists, barbers, makeup ar sts and nail technicians.

Sunshine Smiles: Socialite Stephanie crooks and her companion enjoy some of the sunshine in the Park. – Photo by Luke Ballen ne

A Pink Affair: This young man in pink shows that he can do as well as the older models. Photo Credit: Luke Ballen ne

An ‘Official’ Pose: (From L-R) Vice Mayor Denise Grant, Illene Lieberman and Mayor Hazelle Rogers pose for a picture in the same park named a er Ms. Lieberman.

Photo credit: Luke Ballen ne.

Savoring: Another well-known member of our community Andrea Pear, having the fight of her life with this piece of chicken! She won! Photo credit: Luke Ballen ne.

Timeless: A male model shows off his mepiece in this one-ofa-kind pose for the lens. Photo credit Luke Ballen ne Flashy: Shemy, one of the well-known barbers, was on hand to celebrate with the rest of the community. Photo Credit: Luke Ballen ne

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM –

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NEWSMAKER

Kristen Clarke

First Black Woman to Lead DOJ Civil Rights Division On May 25, the U.S Senate confirmed the appointment of Kristen Clarke to the justice department, making her the first Black woman to lead the U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights division.

The vote was 51-48 with Sen. Susan Collins as the only Republican voting for her confirmation. Clarke's confirmation breaks barriers in a department that was established in 1957 and coincided with the one year anniversary of the death of George Floyd.

Clarke, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, was

nominated by President Joe Biden to serve as Assistant Attorney General for the division. While accepting Biden’s nomination on January 7, Clarke thanked her Jamaican parents for teaching her the principles of hard work and respect as a child.

“Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, my parents instilled in my an unrelenting belief in the principle of hard work and respect for the dignity and humanity of all people. I am deeply thankful for the trail that my parents blazed and I can only imagine the pride they are feeling as I take on the challenging new opportunity.” She also thanked her partner, Mustafa and made mention of her teenage son.

Clarke, a veteran of the Department of Justice, started her career in civil rights as a career

attorney in the Civil Rights Division at the Department of Justice where she handled cases of police misconduct, hate crimes, human trafficking, voting rights, and redistricting cases.

A statement from the White House read that “she has been a champion of systemic equity and equal justice throughout her career.”

Clarke was born in Brooklyn, New York. Her parents migrated from Jamaica to the United States just a few years before she was born in 1975.

She has said that she grew up in a household that was “about discipline, working hard in school and about making the most of every opportunity.”

Clarke was a member of Prep for Prep, a non-profit organization that looks to support students of color in

Clarke

“

Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, my parents instilled in my an unrelenting belief in the principle of hard work and respect for the dignity and humanity of all people. I am deeply thankful for the trail that my parents blazed and I can only imagine the pride they are feeling as I take on the challenging new opportunity.

“

Jamaican-American

accessing private school education.

She attended Choate Rosemary Hall, where she was the only girl to join the boy's wrestling squad.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard University and a Juris Doctor from Columbia Law School in 2000.

After graduating she worked as a trial attorney in the United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. In this capacity, she served as a federal prosecutor and worked on voting rights, hate crimes and human trafficking cases.

In 2006, Clarke joined the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, where she co-led the political participation group and focused on election law reform. In 2011, she was appointed Director of the Civil Rights bureau of then Attorney General of New York, Eric Schneiderman, where she led initiatives on criminal justice issues and housing discrimination. Under her initiative, the bureau reached agreements with retailers on racial profiling of their customers, police departments on policy reformer and with school districts on the schoolto-prison pipeline.

In 2015, Clarke was appointed president and Executive Director of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. One of her first roles was leading Election Protection, a voter protection coalition. She became well known for her work combating the discrimination faced by marginalized communities.

In 2019, Clarke represented Taylor Dumpson, the first AfricanAmerican woman student body President of American University, in her lawsuit against Andrew Anglin, who placed bananas around campus. He then directed his followers to harass her on social media, a so-called "troll storm".

Clarke successfully fought for the United States District Court for the District of Columbia to recognize that hateful online trolling can interfere with access to public

accommodation, as well as securing damages and a restraining order.

She is currently the president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Clarke was sworn in Tuesday, May 25th, by Jamaican-American Vice President Kamala Harris, whose office called Clarke "a tireless champion of equal justice".

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A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN JAMAICA

Bahamas Announces Lockdown

J’can 16-Y-O Recruited For NASA Internship

The Bahamas government has announced a two-week lockdown for Cat Island and North and Central Andros, effective 8:00 pm on Monday as the country moves to curb the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The Bahamas recorded 52 COVID-19 cases on Saturday, including seven in Cat Island and nine in Andros. The country has recorded 222 deaths and 11, 296 positive cases since March last year.

Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis, in a nationwide radio and television broadcast, said that only essential workers will be allowed to visit the islands during the lockdown.

The Bahamas recorded 52 COVID-19 cases on Saturday, including seven in Cat Island and nine in Andros.

“Every agency, business or establishment shall remain closed, except for the Royal continues on A6 – Lockdown

Innis

A 16-year-old Jamaican is now the recipient of a coveted National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) internship and will become the first black female from the Martin Van Buren High School in New York to be chosen for the prestigious position.

Rynola Fraser, who moved to the United States only two years ago at the age of 14, was selected to fill one of only four available posts from a total of about 4,000 who applied. She is scheduled to begin the six-week internship on July 5.

Fraser, originally hailing from Lionel Town in Jamaica, stated that though the international move took some adjustment, she had been steadily building her profile for some time as she prepared to apply for the post. She noted, however, that it was not something she wanted at the time as her lifelong dream was to become a lawyer.

Back home, Fraser attended the Hope

Basic School where she learned its motto ‘Ever Striving For Excellence’, which she still lives by. She then attended Glenmuir High before moving to start her junior year abroad. There, she joined the Scholars club, housed some of the brightest children in the country, and was also placed in a Science Research class where she did mostly environmental field research. Soon after, her teacher Miss Wang encouraged her to apply for the NASA post after noticing that Fraser had a natural talent for the sciences.

During the internship, her team of researchers will include her teacher Miss Wang, Dr Dorothy Deteet and an undergraduate student. They will research the existing factors that affect climate change. In an encouraging note to others, the successful teen sent a word of motivation to others telling them “not to let opportunities pass”.

Fraser

CAYMAN ISLANDS

Cayman Could Be the First Caribbean Country to Achieve Herd Immunity The Cayman Islands may be the first country in the Caribbean to achieve COVID-19 herd immunity.

As per the latest vaccination statistics provided by the Chief Medical Officer of the Cayman Islands, Dr John Lee, the country only requires some 5,000 more people to get vaccinated in order to reach its national target.

The vaccination benchmark for herd immunity and border reopening is 70 percent.

As of May 20, 64 percent (41,307 people) of the

country’s 65,000 residents had received at least one dose of the vaccine. Some 54 percent have been fully vaccinated.

There have been 76,379 COVID-19 vaccinations given in total in the Cayman Islands. The country has just under 10,000 vaccine doses left to be used.

Premier of the Cayman Islands, Wayne Panton has said that a target of 70 percent of the total population is “do-able” and that the country is “within striking distance of this now”.

According to Panton, “The last Government had set the target vaccination rate at which borders would reopen at around 70 to 80

percent of the total population. We believe that while 80 per cent may be difficult to achieve, 70 per cent is do-able, if we have persons committed to acting in a manner that is reflective of the greater public good just like the way we rallied as a community, staying home and limiting movement for several challenging months in 2020.”

Public Health, members of Cabinet, the Chamber of Commerce and local leaders of business have urged Cayman Islands residents who have not yet been vaccinated to get their first vaccination before June 9, as existing vaccine stocks expire on June 30.

Cayman Island, which is a British overseas territory, received its first shipment of vaccines on January 5th. The shipment, which contained over 9,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine, was donated by the government of the United Kingdom.

CARICOM countries in the region began receiving vaccines in February.

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Talk Up!

TALKUP

How Did the Killing of George Floyd Make You Feel?

It's been one year since the horrific murder of George Floyd, the unarmed Black man that was killed by Minneapolis police on May 25, 2020. Floyd's death sparked international protests and renewed calls for police reform in America.

Although a year has passed and the white officer who kneeled on Floyd's neck, Derek Chauvin has been convicted of murder, emotions are still running high in the Black community in South Florida. To commemorate the death of George Floyd, we asked residents how Floyd's death made them feel. Here are the responses:

Kasha - When I first heard about the lynching of George Floyd so many emotions raced across my mind; outrage, disgust, confusion, fear, and worry. The part that had my emotions the most heightened is the fact I learned about this when I was with my 5-year-old Black son sitting next to me. He had so many questions and couldn't even put them into words. So I answered the look on his face, “why?” … I replied “Simple, this is America.” I was disgusted that was the answer I had to offer him. I'm extremely upset that the talk I had to have with my son is the new normal … a rite of passage of sorts for young black males. In the space where I'm to teach my son to be proud, stand tall, demand respect but yet at the time teaching him that around “some” you will have to dim your light to save your life. At this point, my heart cries and bleeds for every black male.

Rinel — George Floyd's death caused me to feel a range of emotions. Anger and sadness mostly being the daughter of a black man and a sister to black men. Occurrences like this make me fearful of them walking out the door. It makes me think about what we can do as a community to prevent these occurrences from happening.

How can we protect ourselves?

Markus —I think that the passing of George Floyd is very sad, the same as it would be if this happened to any innocent man getting murdered in the street, especially when it was senseless. It's always emotionally strenuous and these issues would provoke anybody. It's not the first time; we all know that and it's not going to be the last. I feel like the core problem is internal, within us, in our homes, families, and most of all a broken system. The solution to these issues will not come overnight. Police officers need better training. They are first responders and their duty is to subdue and protect the people, but it seems more and more like officers are trained to kill.

Officers should be given psychological screenings prior to starting the job. How will people of color especially ever feel truly safe or protected while feeling hunted by the government?

Shomari — The lynching pissed me off because the officer clearly knew George Floyd couldn't breathe, especially with local bystanders who were screaming to the officer that he couldn't breathe. It was, in my opinion, a cold-hearted murder. Officers knew what was going on and refused to stop. It is very heartbreaking but unfortunately, he wasn't the first and won't be the last. The police brutality, unfair treatment, and racism need to end but it is extremely farfetched.

Ervince — It made me feel like this is the norm, I don't believe anything is going to change until we rebuild. It got me to the point where I know for a fact I'm not dying by police without fighting back and I'm not going to watch my brother die without a fight! It made me realize I have to stay militant in a place I'm supposed to call home and that people rather be comfortable than address these serious issues.

Mathew — Should I expect to be murdered by a police officer today? Should I feel anxiety or fear jogging through my neighborhood at the risk of being shot and killed? These are the questions people like me have to ask. At its best, America is a symbol of freedom and hope to the world, but as its worse, she is the darkest corner of mankind. Police have to do better. They need better judgment and mental evaluations.

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A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

editorial

A Year After the Death of George Floyd Lots to be Done to Effect Real Change Last Tuesday marked the one-year anniversary of the killing of George Floyd.

And nationwide, we saw supporters come together in honor of his life with memorial events, marches and demonstrations in recognition of the man who has, in recent times, become a major symbol in the fight for racial equality and police reform.

The day’s activities had multiple goals – the obvious, which was to acknowledge that it’s been a year since Floyd died under the knee of a then-Minneapolis police officer, and also to celebrate the reforms that have come about across the country since the incident that sparked major civil unrest last year.

In Minneapolis, people gathered throughout the day in remembrance near the site where he died, an area that has come to be known as George Floyd Square. In Houston, there was a celebration of his life held in the city where he spent most of his years. In New York, masses knelt outside the entrance of the Holland Tunnel, which connects Manhattan and New Jersey, for nine minutes and 29 seconds — the length of time a white police officer knelt on Floyd's neck.

Other major cities across the nation

George Floyd family: Gianna Floyd, the daughter of George Floyd, leads the chant "say his name" as members of the Floyd family talk with reporters after meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House, Tuesday, May 25, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

celebrated in recognition of him too.

At the White House in the country’s Washington, D.C., capital, members of the Floyd family met with President Joe Biden, VicePresident Kamala Harris and congressional leaders to discuss the nation’s progress with race relations.

We’re all encouraged by this ongoing positive movement and the strides made in the last year. In fact, many finally feel like change is here.

But where are we as a country a whole year later?

In the beginning, Floyd's death prompted a summer of international protests against police brutality and racial justice. Most recently, Floyd’s convicted killer Derek Chauvin stood

trial and had been found guilty of all three charges of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. The guilty verdict was a significant moment in history as American police officers have rarely been known to face legal consequences for misconduct.

There’s also been major efforts on the police reform front at the local level since Floyd’s killing. As an example, we’ve seen Austin’s city council cut the police department by one-third last summer and the Berkeley City Council in California approve a measure that shifts traffic enforcement away from the police department. Overall, the police has

been largely defunded too.

But there’s still a lot that needs to be done to effect real change – a tangible one that we can all feel in our everyday lives. Chief of these is passing the George Floyd Act, which proposes legislation change that aims to combat police misconduct, excessive force, and racial bias in policing while it also seeks to ban chokeholds and limit no-knock warrants. We also need to collectively continue to root out racism wherever it exists in police departments across the country.

We should not have to engage in civil disobedience and extreme measures to demand justice. In the words of President Biden in his statement since meeting with Floyd family members, “the battle for the soul of America has been a constant push and pull between the American ideal that we’re all created equal and the harsh reality that racism has long torn us apart”.

Looking forward, we’re all hoping for even more change. But until then, as American history has shown us, it’s likely that violence and clashes will continue. Because this too marred the anniversary celebrations as militant protesters staged yet another riot in Portland, Oregon, destroying local businesses, and at least one person was also shot Tuesday near the Minneapolis intersection where George Floyd was killed.

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la section haitienne

US Extends TPS for Haitians The Joe Biden administration in the United States on Saturday announced a new 18-month designation of Haitians for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Secretary of US Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said that the new TPS designation enables Haitian nationals – and individuals without nationality who last resided in Haiti – currently residing in the United States, as of May 21, to file initial applications for TPS, “so long as they meet eligibility requirements.”

“Haiti is currently experiencing serious security concerns, social unrest, an increase in human rights abuses, crippling poverty and lack of basic resources, which are exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mayorkas in a statement.

“After careful consideration, we

determined that we must do what we can to support Haitian nationals in the United States until conditions in Haiti improve so they may safely return home,” he added.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said that, after consultation with interagency partners, Mayorkas decided to designate Haiti for TPS “due to extraordinary and temporary conditions in Haiti that

prevent nationals from returning safely, specifically, a political crisis and human rights abuses; serious security concerns; and the COVID-19 pandemic’s exacerbation of a dire economic situation, and lack of access to food, water and healthcare.”

“The persistent effects of the 2010 earthquake have also exacerbated the severity of the extraordinary and temporary

conditions in Haiti currently,” the department said.

It said the designation of Haiti for TPS also is not contrary to the national interest of the United States.

DHS said a country may be designated for TPS based on one or more of the three statutory grounds for designation: ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or extraordinary and temporary conditions.

“It is important to note that TPS will apply only to those individuals who are already residing in the United States as of May 21, 2021 and meet all other requirements,” the department stressed. “Those who attempt to travel to the United States after this announcement will not be eligible for TPS and may be repatriated.”

It said Haiti’s 18-month designation will go into effect on the publication date of the US Federal Register notice to come shortly.

DHS said the Federal Register notice will provide instructions for applying for TPS and employment authorization documentation.

“Individuals eligible for TPS under Haiti’s new designation must file an application for TPS with US Citizenship and Immigration Services within the registration period that will begin upon publication of the Federal Register notice,” it said.

DHS said individuals filing for TPS may also request an Employment Authorization Document and travel authorization.

“All individuals applying for TPS undergo security and background checks as part of determining eligibility,” it said.

DHS noted that former US Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano initially designated Haiti for TPS in January 2010, “based on extraordinary and temporary conditions within the country, specifically the effects of a 7.0-magnitude earthquake.”

According to the DHS, Haitian beneficiaries retain their TPS and TPS-related documents through October 4, 2022.

The department said it will continue to extend the benefit and documents if required to comply with court orders.

Haiti Imposes Curfew, Orders Mask use for Pandemic Emergency Haiti’s government imposed a nightly curfew and other restrictions Monday under an eight-day “health emergency” meant to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

All outdoor activity will be banned from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m. under the decree issued by President Jovenel Moise, who was in Ecuador on Monday for the inauguration of that country’s new president.

The decree also makes the use of face masks mandatory for anyone out in public, while temperature checks and handwashing stations are required for all public or private buildings such as banks, schools, hospitals and markets. Social distancing in public places is set at 1.5 meters (nearly 5 feet).

The president also ordered public institutions to reduce staff on duty by 50%, while he encouraged that other employees work from home.

Residents of Port-au- Prince seemed to take little regard of what was expected of them under these new rules as street markets continued to be crowded as was public transportation. Most people were not wearing masks and social distancing was not followed.According to official government statistics, Haiti has had 13,906 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began in March 2020 and 288 deaths related to COVID-19.

But a recent surge in daily cases of contagion has prompted authorities to declare the state of emergency.

Haiti has not yet begun to vaccinate its population against the coronavirus. The government recently announced its expects to begin giving the shots in June.

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM TRAVEL LIFESTYLE CUISINE

Healing Hot Springs in

Jamaica

The eruption of La Soufrière Volcano in St. Vincent is a reminder that several of the Caribbean islands were created as a result of historical volcanic activity. While most of the volcanoes in the region are dormant, in islands like Jamaica they have created extremely soothing and therapeutic mineral springs. These springs are very popular with local residents and tourists, some of who travel from far distances to benefit from the healing qualities of these springs.

By Seema Gurnani Currently, COVID-19 restrictions impede travel to Jamaica and other Caribbean islands, but if you can travel now or when traveling becomes less restrictive, you may want to visit one or more of these mineral springs.

The following article of some of the more popular mineral springs in Jamaica was sourced from www.traveltriangle.com.

Well known for the scenic beaches, blue mountains, museums and resorts, Jamaica is gifted with natural mineral springs and baths that have many therapeutic properties to offer.

The ones in Jamaica are famous across the world with radioactive levels and mineral deposition levels much higher than the other well-known hot springs. The location of the hot spring and its source of origin play a significant role in determining the mineral composition and temperature of the hot springs. Though most of it originates from the very crust of the Earth with some flowing through mineral-rich rock caves or limestone caves. People who visit

these hot springs often report feeling refreshed and relieved of certain pain and ailments.

So, the boiling question here is where in Jamaica are hot springs located?

Bath Mineral Fountain, St. Thomas The Bath Mineral Fountain consists of two hot springs that flow through the rocks on bamboo pipes. The water here is rich in sulfur, magnesium and lime. One of these hot springs is piping hot while the other is relatively cold.

This spring was discovered in the 17th century by a runaway slave who was suffering from ulcers on the leg. He bathed here and noticed the healing following which the news spread and started to attract visitors soon after that.

The place was sold to the government in 1699 and till date is flocked by visitors from all over the world.

Milk River Bath, Clarendon This hot spring is said to have the highest

levels of radioactivity among all other mineral springs in the world. The average temperature here ranges from 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The water here is rich in magnesium, calcium, sulfate and natural chloride. The water is known to treat rheumatism, arthritis, sciatica and nerve issues.

People here aren’t allowed to stay in the water for more than 10 to 20 minutes at a time and are given a maximum of three baths a day because of the high temperature and radioactivity. This spring is said to have healed a slave who was beaten near to death. His master later willed the property to the Jamaican government.

TLC

Fire Water, St. Ann The Fire Water hot spring has a combination of sulfur and natural gases and its ability to ignite the healing power. This ability of this water to ignite was discovered in earlier times when flames from a nearby fire that got out of hand ended up in the water, kindling it.

This is probably one of the most popular mineral springs in Jamaica, and it attracts numerous visitors due to this unique property.

Blue Hole, Westmoreland The Blue Hole is a 40-foot deep cavern encased by limestone completely. Visitors can either dive from the cliffs or climb down with the provided ladder to enter the cool mineralrich water. There is a pool as well, for the ones with a faint heart who are too scared to venture into the mainspring. The mud surrounding the springs is said to have healing properties for the skin as well. Rubbing it on the skin or face can be done in order to reap the benefits. It is the best hot spring in Negril, Jamaica.

Black River Spa, St. Elizabeth The Black River Spa is a mineral spring that is especially rich in sulfur and several other minerals. The water in the spring is constantly collected from underground water reserves and is said to have been a dumpsite in the earlier ages. The spa was discovered in the British era and was said to be used by the estate owner to treat enslaved people with rheumatism and other illness.

Bubbling Springs, St. Elizabeth The Bubbling Springs is a mineral-rich thermal water body with a composition of magnesium, potassium, chloride, sodium, iron, and manganese. This spring derives its name from the percolating water flowing through the sand on the pool bed, giving it a bubbly appearance. The water here remains warm early morning and even in cold weather conditions.

Blue Lagoon, Portland This lake is a distinct shade of blue, and due to its spectacular depth, it used to be considered bottomless. Later, the research found it to be about 200 feet deep. This mineral water spring is said to have aphrodisiac properties which means it is credited for healing secondary sexual problems and fertility issues. The cold water here has two distinct temperatures— warm and cold—as it merges with the warm water of the Caribbean Sea.

Rock Fort Mineral Spa, Kingston Born from the Port Royal earthquake of 1907, this spring derived its name from the nearby Rock Fort site. The location houses several private baths as well as a large swimming pool that is fed by mineral water flowing from the surrounding hills. This water is highly radioactive and slightly saline, it is said to have therapeutic qualities as well. Take a dip in this mineral water spring and bask in its therapeutic properties for better health.

Traveltriangle.com

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM –

B1

COMMUNITY

Florida Fatal Overdoses, 7th-highest Nationwide Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Florida has seen an over 40 percent increase in drug-related overdose deaths. A recent study conducted by QuoteWizard for Lending Tree found that 2,143 more Floridians died of a drug overdose in 2020 than in 2019, making Florida the state with the seventh highest number of overdoses in 2020.

Nationwide, 87,203 people died of an overdose in 2020 compared to 68,757 in 2019.

Florida joins states like Pennsylvania and California, who’ve also had the highest numbers of overdose deaths overall. Also, Louisiana, Kentucky and West Virginia have had the highest increases in overdose-related deaths.

Combined, opioids account for nearly 70 percent of overdose deaths. Heroine, cocaine, methadone and psychostimulants account for the other 30 percent of fatal drug overdoses.

Emily Blunt, Public Relations Officer for QuoteWizard, said the pandemic itself seems to be the leading factor contributing to increased

numbers. “We found that the sharp increase in overdose-related deaths coincides with the start of the pandemic in many places. It’s hard to attribute the rise in deaths to any one specific factor but the isolation, prolonged unemployment and overall feeling of uncertainty, and increased feelings of stress and depression that went along with the pandemic certainly played a role.”

Blunt is calling for a multi-pronged approach to solve the drug problem that has been exacerbated by the pandemic “Solving this problem requires a multi-faceted approach. As a nation, we need a greater focus on prevention and education regarding the dangers of opioids

and other controlled substances. There needs to be better reporting so that we can manage access to powerful drugs and track how they are being used. And we need additional funding for treatment and recovery programs.”

Persons going through addiction or individuals with friends or relatives going through addiction are reminded that there is help available and they are not alone. Blunt explained, “The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a hotline dedicated to helping people who are dealing with addiction. The number of fatal drug overdoses is a rapidly growing problem, but it’s also one we can solve.”

Every year, tens of thousands of people in Florida and across America die from drug or alcohol overdoses. In 2019, the Florida Legislature expanded the Good Samaritan Act, enacted in 2012, to curtail those numbers. The act shields people from arrest or prosecution of certain crimes if they seek medical help for themselves or someone else undergoing a drug or alcohol overdose.

While this act has contributed to more persons seeking help for drug or alcohol-related overdose, the onset of the pandemic has dampened progress made in 2019. Blunt is, therefore, welcoming “any additional legislation that adds to prevention and education, increased surveillance and reporting and additional funding for treatment and recovery that could help to stem this deadly tide”.

Parents Protest School Districts’ Mask Orders

By Sheri-Kae McLeod

“Children should not wear face masks in school” was the stern message from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Tuesday, May 18, suggesting that local school districts should get rid of their mask mandates.

As the school year comes to a close in Florida, school districts have begun issuing protocols for the next school year. Governor DeSantis said that come August, he wants all school districts in the state to return to prepandemic operations.

“Our direction for the new school year is relatively simple: have a normal school year. I think that’s where we need to be. These kids do not need to be wearing these masks. We need to be able to let them be kids,” he said during a press conference in the state.

Two South Florida school districts have so far issued guidance for the next school year.

Miami-Dade Superintendent Alberto Carvalho announced this week that masks will be optional for students come August. Palm Beach School District will also not require students to wear masks when the new school year starts in August.

But even an optional mask mandate wasn’t satisfactory for some South Florida parents. In Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties, scores of parents protested the mask mandate, saying they wanted it to end immediately. The same happened in Broward County on Tuesday, where parents held a protest at the school board headquarters.

The Broward school district later issued a statement saying that the policy on this matter remains in effect for the remainder of the school year. Jamaican-born BCPS Superintendent Robert Runcie says the guidelines for the next school year will be discussed and announced in June or July.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM –

B3

ADVERTORIAL

Black Pastors Show Faith in Medical Marijuana Treatment M

arijuana has long been a target of condemnation in Black churches.

And for good reason: Pastors have seen how the racially biased enforcement of marijuana laws has impacted their communities and congregations. Blacks are nearly four times more likely than Whites to be arrested for related offenses, even though both races share similar usage rates, and serve time for related convictions at a greater rate than their White counterparts.

But three Black pastors in Florida reflect a national trend in changing attitudes toward cannabis, particularly its legal use for medicinal purposes. Dr. Erta C. Livingston Jr., Pastor Leo Stoney and Dr. Lonnie Davis Wesley III, all support medical marijuana as a physicianauthorized treatment, saying its use is no different than taking any prescribed drug. The church leaders also share common ground on the subject of legalizing recreational marijuana as a legal drug in Florida.

Dr. Livingston is the Senior Pastor of the Church of God by Faith #1 in Gainesville and Director of Patient Services for UF Health Jacksonville. In the latter position he oversees chaplains, interpreters and other patient services.

A Pentecostal pastor with 40 years of experience, Dr. Livingston takes a hardline approach to marijuana but makes an exception when it's used medicinally to treat people in pain. Working in hospitals changed his perspective, he said.

“I see pain every day, and I see people trying to get relief from pain. I lay hands on them, I do all the spiritual things I need to do, but sometimes the pain continues. So, in a compassionate way, I want to support whatever it takes to relieve pain. I want to support them in that as long as it's legal,” he said. “If medical marijuana is prescribed by a doctor, you have my support.

Livingston

Stoney

I'm not going to put you on the altar and send you to hell.”

Added Pastor Stoney of The MaxOut Church in Melbourne: “This is definitely a taboo topic because we are pastors, right? Like, what are you all even talking about? Don't you believe in prayer? Well, I go back to this. If there's medicine for cancer — there's medicine for COVID now — and there's medicine for everything else, why can't there be a medicine prescribed by a doctor that has been tested and proven to make someone in pain feel better?” (“Chronic nonmalignant pain” caused by a qualifying medical condition can be treated with medical marijuana under Florida law. Go online to https://knowthefactsmmj.com/ for more information on qualifying conditions and other

Wesley

facts about medical marijuana treatment in Florida.)

Dr. Wesley has spent 16 of his 24 years in the ministry as pastor of the Greater Little Rock Baptist Church in his hometown of Pensacola, and he serves on MMERI's External Advisory Council. He said congregants really shouldn't concern themselves with a church's position on medical marijuana.

“It isn't the church's business what medicine your doctor has prescribed for your medical care,” he stressed. “Do what you have to do medically to help you have a better quality of life.”

The pastors all agreed that education about medical marijuana was key to their acceptance of the drug.

“As I learned about medical marijuana, I

became more open and I didn't allow my background or my upbringing to isolate me from knowing more,” said Pastor Stoney. “The scripture says, 'My people are destroyed because of a lack of knowledge,' which also means we formulate opinions and thoughts that aren't based in anything. So, we've got to evolve our thinking.”

On the topic of recreational marijuana, all three voiced reservations on legalizing it regardless of whether that's done by the state or federal government.

“I wouldn't want to legalize something that could cause havoc to families and relationships,” said Dr. Livingston.

While Dr. Wesley could see legalization as a step toward ending the discriminatory enforcement of marijuana laws, his belief that “weed” is a gateway drug poses a high hurdle he isn't ready to clear.

“You know, that's just how a lot of people get started into drugs,” he said. “The cocaine user started with weed. The crack user, I think, will say I started with the joint, so it's just a heavy subject that we cannot jump into. We have to really do serious due diligence and weigh the pros and cons.”

“I totally agree with my colleagues,” said Pastor Stoney. “We're already a disenfranchised people, so I think we have to be a little bit wiser before we jump the gun on this.”

Visit bit.ly/MMERI_Religion_Forum to watch MMERI's Conversations on Cannabis Virtual Forum featuring Reverend Lonnie Wesley (Greater Little Rock Baptist Church), Pastor Leo Stoney (MaxOut Church), Elder Doctor Erta Livingston (Church of God by Faith #1 in Gainesville) on YouTube. For more information on medical marijuana, visit MMERI's website at http://mmeri.famu.edu Editor's note: This commentary is provided by the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) of Florida A&M University.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CONTINUATIONS

Our Commitments

impact but also to remember our commitments that we made to change the culture within law enforcement and to be a more equalitydriven society where no one feels ostracized, vilified or as though their life doesn’t matter,” he added.

The Broward County Commissioners also voted unanimously and passed an ordinance to create a police and criminal justice review board, sponsored by Jamaican-born Commissioner Dale Holness.

In April, the white officer that killed George Floyd was convicted of murder and faces sentencing June 25. Three other fired officers still face trial.

On Tuesday, Floyd’s sister Bridgett and other family members held a moment of silence at a ‘Celebration of Life’ event at a downtown Minneapolis park that included music, food trucks, an inflatable bouncy house and a vaccination stand. A few miles away, at the site of the intersection where Floyd died, dozens of people kneeled around a steel fist sculpture for several minutes — symbolizing the 9 minutes, 29 seconds during which Floyd was pinned down.

“It’s been a troubling year, a long year,” Bridgett Floyd told the crowd downtown. “But we made it. … The love is here. George is here.”

Other members of Floyd’s family met in Washington with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who urged Congress to quickly pass a law in Floyd’s name that would bring changes to policing. A moment of silence to honor Floyd was also held in New York and a rally was held in Los Angeles. Globally, a rally took place in Germany and Floyd’s death was marked by U.S. embassies in Greece and Spain.

Hesitancy

Lockdown

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Floyd, 46, who was black, died May 25, 2020, after then-Officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck, pinning him to the ground for about 9 1/2 minutes.

His death, which was captured on video, sparked global outrage and prompted protests in South Florida, and the entire United States, across the Caribbean. The protests also went global, in cities like London, Berlin, Toronto and Copenhagen.

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cally, with Broward County Mayor Steve Geller lamenting that not enough residents are taking the vaccine.

At a press briefing on May 19th, Mayor Geller also singled out the Caribbean-American community, which he says have been hesitant to take the shot since the start of vaccinations in December.

“We have seen in Broward County, some of our southern zip codes and some areas of West Broward show an alarming discrepancy in the percentage of people vaccinated. We’ve seen vaccine hesitancy particularly among the English-speaking and Frenchspeaking Caribbean-American communities. Again, it does not matter your age, ethnicity, or national origin. I am urging everybody to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community. Get vaccinated. COVID is not over,” he said.

Mayor Geller noted that since state Governor Ron DeSantis rescinded COVID-19 restrictions, many South Florida residents seem to think that the country is at the end of the pandemic.

“When you have roughly 60 percent of the adult population vaccinated, you would expect the [COVID-19] numbers to continue to improve. However, I have sensed almost a sense of giddiness that the

954.739.6618

COVID crisis is now completely over. It is not completely over. It has been substantially improving and if we continue to use common sense precautions, it is our hope that we can beat this,” he said.

Some 60 percent of Broward County’s adult population have been vaccinated, according to Mayor Geller. At least 70 percent of the population needs to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity.

Mayor Geller noted that of Broward County’s total population, including residents under the age of 18, only 47 percent of residents have been vaccinated. He said that in the last few weeks, vaccination rates have slowed in the county.

The slow uptake has caused several sites in Broward and MiamiDade to close down or change operations. The Hard Rock Stadium in Miami is ending COVID testing to focus more on vaccines. In Broward, the T.Y. Park and Tradewinds sites are among those that closed this month.

Several vaccination sites are still open in the countries across South Florida. But local leaders say they are now shifting focus to popup sites in an attempt to provide access to different communities.

from A4

Bahamas Police Force, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Government community clinics, and COVID-19 vaccination sites.

“No individual, other than an essential worker, shall leave his or her place of residence for any purpose other than for the purpose of seeking urgent medical attention, to go to a vaccination site, or on prescribed days, to purchase food, water and other essential items.

The administrator or a designee, is permitted to distribute food and water on behalf of the Government,” he said in the broadcast.

He said that food store owners may be permitted to restock their stores, after the arrival of the respective mailboat and the Seacorp.

“Food stores may be opened for two days, between 6:00 am and 6:00 pm after the mailboat has arrived. Residents may leave their homes, to go to the food store during the two days, immediately following the arrival of the mailboat only. Farmers are permitted to water their crops, between the hours of 5:00 am to 9:00 am.”

Prime Minister Minnis said that subsistence fishing will be permitted and that the commercial banks may reload their Automated Banking Machines.

“Gas stations may open on Fridays from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm for government agencies only. Customs and Immigration will be able to fulfill their duties as needed. Security guard services will be permitted. Hotel workers carrying identification will be permitted to traverse to and from their places of employment.

Prime Minister Minnis said that residents of North and Central Andros will be allowed to harvest crabs during the lockdown.

He said also that the AUTEC’s Navy Base will be allowed to operate and Emile Knowles Construction Company will also be allowed to work on the government’s bridge project in Stainard Creek during a 12 hour period.

“Out of an abundance of caution, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, has already dispatched officers to Cat Island, and North and Central Andros, to ensure that residents are not leaving these areas, and risking the greater spread of the COVID-19 virus, to other communities and islands,” Prime Minister Minnis said.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 27 – JUN 2, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM –

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ENTERTAINMENT The visuals, which premiered on May 10 via Jesse’s official Vevo channel, have already garnered close to 500,000 views and peaked at #25 last week as it trended on the YouTube platform in Jamaica.

Displaying variations of everyday blue-collar Jamaicans in their ‘kingly character’ as they toiled, both the lyrics and their visual depiction were met with resounding approval in the comments from both Jesse’s fans and Kartel’s die-hard cult following ‘Gaza nation’.

The duo has always shown massive respect for each other’s music craft. Jesse said, “Working with the undisputed king of Dancehall for me is a big school. You learn every single time. You’re excited and intrigued every time. So, for me, it’s a blessing. An honour, yes but it’s more of a schooling and you cyaa pay for dem high level ah school-

“The single is denitely reminiscent of how I see myself as a person and on a greater scale, what I wish for my people to see as their reality.... This is all about reclaiming certain vibrations and ‘overstanding’ that we were carefully crafted and everything that we go through was what we needed to go through to get to where we need to go to.” – Jesse Royal

Rich Forever

ing.” Produced by Jamaican recording artiste, songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Iotosh, the new song presents Vybz Kartel collaborating with Jesse Royal for the second time around to create an inspiring and memorable Reggae and Dancehall fusion with crossover appeal.

Jesse Royal hopes to enrich the minds of everyone with the concept of the video, which was done by Extreme Arts in St. Andrew Jamaica. The video shows Jesse Royal as King Midas, who touches persons in his immediate surroundings and, suddenly, they appear as versions of themselves who are rich in love, respect and values.

Jesse Royal further explains that the video is also a testament to how he lives his everyday life, uplifting those he cares about. He also wants everyone to know that they are “carefully crafted creatures of the universe” with a regal quality. He explained, “We specifically went with the visuals and the concept of it because everybody in their own way is royal at some point in time. So, whatever you’re doing to earn your honest bread, you automatically become a kingly representation of that field. Whether is gardening or music, whether you’re a chef or a mechanic... once you are being true to yourself and doing the greatest that you can do, a kingly aura will slowly but surely fall to the I.” When asked if he had any initial reservations about collaborating with an artiste who is incarcerated, Jesse replied, “There was no initial hesitation with working or collaborating with an individual like that” Laughing, he continued, “I mean, what we do is create music – we don’t work in any judicial system.”

The single is in anticipation of his second album titled ‘Royal’, which will be out June 11 via Easy Star Records. He describes it as a collective effort between himself and those he respects in music and all aspects of the entertainment industry. Jesse doesn’t only see himself as royal; those around him get that same respect and this new album’s select sounds are indicative of that wholesome vibe.

By R. Samuels

Jesse Royal’s Music Video with Vybz Kartel Trending on Social Media Reggae crooner Jesse Royal is excited about the recent release of the new music video for his current hit single ‘Rich Forever’ featuring Vybz Kartel, who he says is “the undisputed king of Dancehall”.

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Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrested the singer, whose real name is Simsky Kimberly Harrison. She was later transported to the

Dovey Magnum Stewart Detention Center. Up to Friday evening, Dovey Magnum was still listed as an ICE inmate on their website.

According to multiple reports, the artist has been living in the United States for well over a year without the proper documentation.

Dovey Magnum was advertised to headline Purity’s all-white bash in Florida with Dexta Daps on May 23. It is not yet known if she has been released from ICE or if she will be replaced at the event.

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C3

SPORTS COMMENTARY

VIEW FROM THE SIDELINES

SOUTH FLORIDA CRICKET ALLIANCE

“The Show Must Go On” – Christopher Samuda, President of the Jamaica Olympic Association

A

ccording to the French press agency, AFP, cancelling the Tokyo Olympics in response to mounting public opposition in Japan to holding the Games during the novel coronavirus pandemic would be an unparalleled act in peacetime.

“It would represent a bombshell for the sporting world and have far-reaching and complex financial consequences.

“While the Japanese Government and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) say they are confident they can stage a safe Games, opinion polls in Japan show more than 80 percent of residents are opposed just over two months before the opening ceremony.”

But there would be severe consequences for a cancellation, especially after COVID-19 forced a postponement from last year.

Formally, the host city's contract signed by Japanese organizers puts that responsibility on the shoulders of the IOC should there be war or civil disorder, or if it deems that participants' safety is “seriously threatened or jeopardized for any reason whatsoever”.

The IOC, however, has no intention of cancelling, convinced that a safe and secure Olympics can be held for the 11,000 expected athletes in the Japanese capital.

But calls for cancellation have been ramping up in Japan, where concern has been expressed at stretched medical facilities and polls show overwhelming support from the local population for a scrapping of the Games.

The vaccination roll-out in Japan has been slow to get off the ground, and national and local elections are also coming into view.

What are the consequences for Japan?

A large part of the Games budget has already been spent. Re-evaluated at the end of 2020 at US$15.4 billion, more than half of this expenditure is made up of public investments in permanent sites around Tokyo.

A cancellation would reduce operating costs linked to the Games themselves: catering, transport, energy, and the rehabilitation of the Olympic Village before it is turned into apartments. But it would also, above all, slash revenues. Japan has already bitten the bullet on missing out on ticket sales estimated at US$800 million due to the ban on foreign fans.

A decision is yet to be taken on whether to allow limited numbers of local fans into venues.

Organizers would also be stuck with an enormous bill: a partial reimbursement for local sponsors to the tune of US$3.3 billion, while they would probably have to pay back the IOC's contribution of US$1.3 billion.

What would a cancellation cost the IOC? The IOC has never divulged what revenues it expects from the Tokyo Games, the reason being the body only publishes its revenues on a

PEOPLE AT PLAY

Underdogz registered an exciting five wicket win over Mega Blasters in the 2021 South Florida Cricket Alliance (SFCA) 30movers competition at the John Mullings Park in Lauderhill last Sunday.

four-year cycle. Revenues in the 2013-16 cycle covering the Sochi Winter Games and the 2016 Rio Summer Games touched US$5.7 billion.

Three-quarters of those revenues come from broadcasting rights, with insiders estimating that the IOC will receive at least US$1.5 billion for Tokyo, a sum it would have to pay back should the Games be cancelled.

The remaining revenues come from international sponsors and cancellation would involve detailed negotiations with each partner on how much they could recoup, the French press agency reports There is no doubt the IOC, which only keeps 10 per cent of its revenues and has reserves of more than US$1 billion, would be hit hard should it be deprived of this financial windfall.

Also in danger would be the entire sports movement since the IOC finances both National Olympic Committees and international federations — and they are already under the financial crunch because of the coronavirus pandemic.

What would insurance cover?

This remains the principal mystery: since the 2006 Winter Games in Turin, the IOC has been insured against the risk of cancellation, “but it is not known whether the policy remained at the original amount, around US$900m, or was lowered” as the Lausannebased body's reserves swelled, according to Patrick Vajda, head of XAW Sports which specializes in risk management and insurance solutions for sports events.

In any case, the indemnity would only cover a part of the potential losses, and there is nothing to say that the Japanese organizers would recoup anything from their side: they have never confirmed that they are covered against a cancellation.

For the president of the Jamaica Olympic Association, Christopher Samuda, the Games must go on and the choice to attend is personal.

At last week’s virtual monthly meeting at The Rotary Club of downtown Kingston where

“

It's a delicate balance, an unenviable duty that resides with the decision-makers as to whether to go to war or to retreat. Very early in the game, President (Richard) Bach told a group of us, Presidents, that there is no plan ‘B’. And I thought then that we, therefore, had beer be on our ‘A’ game.” – Samuda

“

Who would decide to cancel?

Underdogz Notches Win Over Blasters

he was the guest speaker, Samuda asked, “Should athletes, therefore, be denied that opportunity for self-actualization and to create earning opportunities?

“Should the Olympic movement capitulate in the wake of this onslaught when its principles impel us to be resilient, determined and steadfast?

“Should the Olympic Movement give in to a viral invasion, or should it continue to take up arms against the enemy in sport in fighting the battle on its way to winning the war? And then, should the IOC and Olympic movement pick wisely the battles to fight in the interest of public safety, for healthy lives matter?”

Samuda said the Japanese government has a battle on its hands in the face of growing public opposition to the Games. “Should, as some are saying, the government of Japan in the face of public polls calling for the cancellation of the games and now protests, select wisely its political battles to avoid disfavor or suicide at the polls or should it stand firm, with clenched fists, on the principle of athletes' actualization and their coming of age on the greatest international stage of sport?”

He admitted that the decisions were not easy ones and would take bravery to arrive at.

Mega Blasters winning the toss and decide to bat first; posted a challenging total of 224 runs before they were all out in their allotted 30 overs. Adarsh Patibandla top score with an entertaining inning of 92 from 42 balls, which included six fours and 10 massive sixes.

He was supported by Arun Shankaralingam who made 29 with extras been the third best score, at 28.

Anand Maharaj took 4 for 51 from his six overs, Amarnath Singh 2 for 42 and Anwthon Singh 1 for 35 Bowling for Underdogz. Three wickets went via the run-out route including the final one of the innings.

Replying, Underdogz find themselves in early trouble with the departure of USA representative Timothy Surujbally out caught at the wicket for 9 with only 13 runs on the board; Two more quick wicket fell, that of Stefan Babulal for 8 and Raheem Cunningham for 19 with the score reading 65 for 3 in 7.3 overs.

However, the inning was salvage when skipper Tariq Hosein partnered with Devin Kumar, to post 99 runs partnership when former departed with the score on 164 for 4 contributing 71 with 5 fours and 6 sixes.

It was then left up to Kumar 38, Anwthon Singh 33 not out from 15 balls and Vikram Kumar 17 not out to guide the Underdogz to 228 for 5 in 21.2 overs to victory.

Bowling for Mega Blasters, Chinmay Desai got 2 for 50. Puneet Srivastava Took 1 for 36 and Suni Maruthi 1 for 38.

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