Caribbean National Weekly May 5, 2022

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THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022

BVI Premier Arrested on Drug Charges in Miami

TOP STORIES CARICOM “deeply concerned” at British moves to directly control affairs in BVI

US Customs seize cocaine concealed in cooler cups shipped from Jamaica

UWI appoints rst female principal for Trinidad campus

The premier of the British Virgin Islands, Andrew Fahie on Monday, who was arrested in Miami, demanded his immediate release from U.S. custody, arguing he is immune from prosecution on cocainesmuggling charges because he is the elected, constitutional head of government of the British overseas territory.

Andrew Fahie

continues on B4 – BVI Premier Arrested

NY Mayor Vows to Help Stop Flow of Drugs and Guns to Jamaica Jamaicans living in the United States, he is concerned about the trade of illegal drugs and guns between the two places.

“As Mayor of the Great City of New York, which is home to almost a million Jamaicans, I am concerned about the flow of guns and ammunition as well as drugs from New York City to Jamaica and the impact that it is having on the country as it relates to loss of life. Some of the guns that are causing deaths in Jamaica, are the same that are

The Mayor of New York, Eric Adams has vowed to assist the Jamaican government in helping to stem the flow of guns and drugs to the island.

Mayor Adams offered assistance to the Andrew Holness-led administration while addressing the launch of Jamaica-60th independence celebrations in New York on Sunday.

Adams said with New York being home to the largest percentage of

Eric Adams

manufactured here in the United States and are shipped to Jamaica and the region which are also causing the same deaths in my city,” he said.

“We will partner with your government Mr. Prime Minister, together, to be responsible for changing the culture of the flow of guns and drugs that is destroying the public safety of both our countries in a real way,” Mayor Adams added.

Mayor Adams also acknowledged the contribution of the Jamaican diaspora to New York, saying that the continues on B4 – A Mayor’s Vow

Man dies, four hurt in Bermuda apartment block explosion

Kes Among the Caribbean Performers at This Year’s Essence Festival

Antigua PM says general elections “months away”

Calabar Alumni Overseas Chapters Say Thanks to Teachers With 1.5 Million

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

HAITI

HEALTH

SPORTS

Ed Bartlett Inducted into Global Travel Hall of Fame A3

Trinidad Former Police Commissioner Launches Political Party A4

Haitian Group Demands Half a Million Dollar Ransom for Dom Rep Diplomat A7

May is Lupus Awareness Month B3

Former Bermudan national goalkeeper Freddy Hall dies in car crash C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 Former Third World drummer, Willie Stewart leads a band of musicians comprising students from the Everglades High School in a performance at Rhythms of Africa on April 30 in Miramar. Photo: Mark James

Jamaica's Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange (center); Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartle (right); and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Seth George Ramocan, at the official launch of Jamaica 60 celebra ons in London on April 25. – Contributed

Jamaican American Congresswoman Yve e Clarke (center) and US Ambassador to Jamaica, Nick Perry (right) were among those who a ended a special church service at the New Life Tabernacle In New York on May 1. The service marked the launch of the Jamaica60 celebra ons in New York. – Contributed

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness (center) poses with Jamaican American Actress Khadeen Ellis and her husband, former NFL player Devale Ellis at the recently concluded Penn Relays in Philadelphia. – Contributed

Residents of Miramar enjoy the musical performances at the Rhythms of Africa concert held at the Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater on April 30, hosted by former Third World drummer, Willie Stewart. Photo: Mark James

Lauderhill Commissioner Denise Grant and a city staff member help to freshen up the Lauderhill Sports Park at one of her Adopt-A-Park ini a ves recently. – Contributed

Former Third World Drummer Willie Stewart and legendary reggae singer Marcia Griffiths pose backstage at Stewart's Rhythms of Africa concert in Miramar on April 30, 2022. – Contributed

Grammy-nominated Reggae ar ste Gramps Morgan receives the key to the city of Miramar from Mayor Wayne Messam (center) and Commissioner Alexandra Davis at Willie Stewart's Rhythms of Africa concert in Miramar on April 30, 2022. Marcia Griffiths also received the key to the city. Photo: Mark James

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NEWSMAKER

Edmund Bartlett First Regional Minister Inducted in

Global Travel Hall of Fame Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett has been honored for his hard work in helping Jamaica's tourism industry rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, with induction into the prestigious Global Travel Hall of Fame.

The Global Travel Hall of Fame, formerly dubbed The British Travel and Hospitality Hall of Fame, “recognizes the highest achievers in the travel, hospitality, tourism and leisure sectors.”

Inductees are also hailed as having not only “achieved phenomenal business success but have also inspired and shaped those around them.”

Minister Bartlett is the first Caribbean tourism leader to receive this honor.

The elaborate induction ceremony was held at The Chesterfield Hotel in London on April 28.

Minister Bartlett said he was “humbled by the recognition” which follows a stream of other worldwide industry awards bestowed upon him.

“It is really a humbling experience to be recognized in this manner and to be included as a member of such as revered group, more so because it recognizes not just my own contribution to the sector, but the fact that Jamaica stands out as a prime example of what can be achieved in tourism,” expressed Minister Bartlett.

He has also given credit to the team he leads in the Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies, describing members as “very dedicated and hardworking public sector workers who

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett (right), being presented with Global Travel Hall of Fame award by Brett Tollman, CEO of The Travel Corporation.

appreciate the significance of what they do to the success of tourism and its important contribution to the Jamaican economy.”

Minister Bartlett also lauded tourism stakeholders across the island for their contribution and support as partners in developing the sector over the years.

His other awards include being named the Caribbean's Leading Personality for Outstanding Services to Tourism at the 23rd World Travel Awards in 2016 and the Caribbean Tourism Minister of the Year at the Caribbean Travel Awards in 2017.

Earlier this month, Minister Bartlett was also named among 50 global icons of travel and tourism “who have innovated and created new benchmarks in the travel, aviation, tourism, hospitality and allied sectors.”

Under his leadership, Jamaica has seen its tourism industry bouncing back from the COVID-19 pandemic with record figures for

arrivals and earnings.

In 2021, Jamaica hosted more than 1.54 million overnight visitors. The country's 2021 visitor totals were driven by U.S. vacationers, who accounted for 1,278,679 overnight, landbased air arrivals in 2021.

During the weekend March 3 to 6, 2022, Jamaica also welcomed approximately 27,000 visitors — the highest number for any one single day since Jamaica reopened its borders to visitors in June 2020.

Edmund Bartlett has given some 40 years of service to Jamaica and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). After graduating from the University of the West Indies with a degree in accounting, he worked at the senior management level in the areas of marketing and sales as well as accounting, prior to entering elective politics.

In 1980, he became a member of the JLP as the member of parliament for St. James East

Central and served as minister of state for information, broadcasting and culture in the Office of the Prime Minister and minister of youth, sports, and community development till 1989.

He later served as senator and opposition spokesman on various portfolios from 1989, until he was appointed minister of tourism in 2007 under former Prime Minister Bruce Golding. After the 2011 election, when the People's National Party became the government, Bartlett spent his time as an opposition minister travelling the world and forging alliances with strategic partners for global initiatives. He returned to the helm of the Ministry of Tourism following the JLP's February 2016 victory at the polls.

Many locals have regarded Ed Bartlett as the island's best tourism minister ever. During his tenure as tourism minister, the island's tourism industry underwent a major transformation, which resulted in a billion-dollar increase in revenue for the country. From 2016 to 2017, Bartlett developed and launched Jamaica's Shovel-Ready initiative to attract investors and major hoteliers to the island and thus expanded the island's room capacity by 20 percent in just one year. With the availability of more tourism jobs during his tenure, Bartlett also established a pension programme for local tourism workers and more recently, free tourism training for those impacted by COVID. For his contributions to Jamaica's tourism industry, Bartlett was honored with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander (CD) in 2012 and was also the recipient of the 2016 Caribbean Tourism Minister of Distinction award at the World Tourism Awards.

Outside of work, Minister Bartlett enjoys cricket, dominoes, and dancing. He has been married for over 30 years and has two children.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN

Cayman extends mask mandates by two months The government of the Cayman Islands says the mask mandate for everyone aged five and over in public buildings, schools, restaurants, bars, transport, including inbound flights to Cayman, and other indoor settings where social distancing cannot be maintained will be in effect for two more months.

Limits on outdoor gatherings have been scrapped and the indoor limit on the number of people has increased to 750.

Changes to the Control and Management of COVID-19 Regulations came into effect on Friday and will last until June 30.

In a statement, Chief Medical Officer Dr Autilia Newton urged the public to remain compliant with the mask-wearing requirements, as other restrictions continue to be eased.

“While we acknowledge that some countries have lifted mask-wearing requirements, we have to consider and assess the implications for protecting our population and healthcare system,” she said.

“Mask wearing is still required for indoor events where a distance of six feet cannot be constantly maintained, especially since we have noticed a recent increase in new cases over the last four weeks.”

Travelers, including cruise passengers and air arrivals, must also comply with mask-wearing requirements when in Cayman.

Although restrictions on the number of ships and their passenger numbers allowed to call have been lifted, passengers and crew must be vaccinated and have a negative test prior to the start of their cruise.

Visitors flying in must be vaccinated and provide a negative test before arrival. They must also clear their arrival with Travel Cayman.

While a number of US-based airlines have removed the requirement for passengers to wear masks on domestic flights, inbound flights to the Cayman Islands will still require passengers to wear masks during the flight.

Officials also reminded the owners and operators of restaurants and bars that servers and front-of-house staff are required to wear masks or cloth face coverings while serving customers.

As well as removing the outdoor gathering limits, people are no longer required to seek Cabinet's permission for processions and parades, paving the way for the return of full carnivals. The removal of the public gathering limit for outdoor areas extends to boats and sporting events, though boats and venues must still continue to abide by their legal occupancy requirements.

Trinidad's Former Police Commish launches political party Former commissioner of Police Gary Griffith has announced the launch of a new political party.

In a post on social media late Saturday, Griffith said he has started his National Transformation Alliance (NTA) and called for people to become registered supporters.

“Being of service has always been a bridge to the light for me and after engaging in numerous conversations, listening to many perspectives, and reading your countless contributions, I am, more than ever, committed to the mission of improving our country through transformation and continued national service this time through the National Transformation Alliance, the NTA,” Griffith said.

Our country has noble, progressive visionary, hard-

Gary Grifth

continues on B4 – New Political Party

St. Kitts PM announces salary increase for public servants Embattled Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris on Monday announced a ten percent salary increase for public sector workers benefitting more than 9,000 workers in the twin-island federation.

“I am pleased to announce that my government has determined that our civil servants, pensioners, and STEP workers will benefit from a significant increase in wages, salaries, and pensions at the rate of ten per cent and this shall be retroactive to January 2022,” Harris said in a broadcast marking Labor Day.

“This is another clear example of our investment in our people as we put more money in the pockets of a large number of our citizens and residents. These resources will translate to increase purchasing power for approximately 4,000 salaried civil servants, 1,064 government auxiliary employees, 1,365 pensioners, and 2,800 STEP workers,” he added.

Harris, who faces a vote of no confidence after several members of his Team Unity coalition filed the documents in Parliament last week, said the workers engaged with the Skills Training Empowerment Programme (STEP) are closer to becoming government auxiliary workers that will allow them to enjoy greater job security.

He said the regularization process will continue apace over continues on B1 – St. Kitts Salary Increase

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TALKUP

What's your view on the U.S. supreme court possibly overturning Roe vs Wade, making abortion illegal?

Leslie-Ann W. – Canada

The government should absolutely not intervene in a woman's rights to her body. And yes it is her body, whilst I don't condone abortion as a method of contraception on a personal level, it is her body and she would have to suffer the consequences for her life, therefore it is her choice. Especially in area of assault she should absolutely have the right to choose. The facts are that, all they will do is place women in danger, as they will still do the abortion just in a back room and in unsafe circumstances. they are putting women back to the dark ages. And as far as i am concerned if they are trying to bring the bible in as justification as a Christian the God of the bible that Ii read, murdered first born of the Egyptians, and when they entered the promised land etc he asked that everyone including women unborn children and children also be wiped out.

So the justification of the bible does not hold water to me. So revoking roe vs wade is an assault on women’s personhood.

Melinda P. – Miami

I feel like it's a woman choice and a man should not make a choice about a woman's body. Would I personally do one no, would I recommend it no but I still think it's an individual choice.

Yakima S. – Miami

I think it should remain you can't tell a woman what to with her body. I mean what if someone gets raped or something why bring that child in the world as a painful reminder. If this is revoked America is going backwards

Michael D. – Coral Springs

Clearly I'm neither lawyer nor judicial expert, but Alito's use of the "Constitutional reference" argument for overturning this right amounts to nothing less than an indictment of the Constitution itself....there are several rights and safeguards, never countenanced by America's founding fathers that many Americans have come today to accept as fundamental....how can five individuals, and four men, seek to go so blatantly against the popular will and sentiment?? Astounding

Michelle T. – Sunrise

I don’t think the law should be overturned. There are so many instances nowadays where the law as it stands, actually protects rape individuals and sexual assault victims from having this ind of tragedy. The choice should be left to the individual a.k.a. the victim. Overturning this law would be a step back from how far we’ve come as a society.

Ralph M. – Davie

Even though it was a hot topic, I don’t know much about the law. Clearly there are some grey areas about it that legislators feel the need to have it revoked. In many cases the same law that is being used to protect individuals, especially women, are sometimes taken advantage of. I personally don’t believe in abortion, but I am totally not against it depending on the circumstances of how it happened.

Amanda. R – Sunrise

I believe all women should be given her rights to her body. If abortions become legal, many people will still find ways to get the procedure done or dispose of their newborns some how. It’s sad to think about but it’s true. Some women have abortions because of traumatizing events and others jus don’t feel ready or fit to be a mom yet.

Dani D. – Ft. Lauderdale

“As a Christian I do not believe in abortions. I do understand people’s view points on why they are against it, why people feel like “your body your choice” but my body is a temple of the lord. Life is created within you, God keeps that baby healthy inside you it’s his blessings. Back alley abortions will rise but in reality why are we having babies outside of Gods will or outside of his intended time frame. At the end of the day, it’s a life to me that an abortion would take.”

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

EDITORIAL

Great Cause for Concern of BVI's Premier Arrest The arrest last week (April 28) of British Virgin Island's (BVI) Premier Andrew Fahie by US Drug Enforcement Agents in Miami has to be a worrisome burden on the people of the BVI and the wider Caribbean population.

Based on information from the affidavit published by CNN, the premier was arrested at the Opa-Locka Airport in Miami. He and two other individuals are on charges related to “drug trafficking and money laundering.”

In making the announcement, BVI Governor John Rankin, who is the de facto leader, said, “It is my duty as Governor to inform you that this morning the Honourable premier Fahie was detained in Miami on charges related to conspiracy to import a controlled substance and money laundering.” He further asked for calm from the people of the British territory, saying, “I realize this will be shocking news for people in the Territory.

And I would call for calm at this time."

Shocking is an understatement to describe what has happened to Mr. Fahie. While everyone is considered innocent until proven guilty, the mere allegation is more than a blemish on the premier's image, and his reputation and character will be forever tainted. His family will suffer, and searching eyes will probably be placed on other government officials.

In 2003, Offshore Alert reported that Fahie was being investigated for money laundering when he was Minister of Education.

In response, a statement from Liz Truss, Britain's Foreign Secretary, said she was “appalled by these serious allegations.” She went on to say that the arrest “demonstrates the importance of the recently concluded Commission of Inquiry.” The

As a result of the arrest and the commission of inquiry, Britain has indicated its willingness to impose direct rule over the territory. This will result in the suspension of BVI's constitution and the dissolution of its government.

Fahie

commission was set up in January 2021 and investigated allegations of “systemic corruption, cronyism, jury intimidation and misuse of public funds” by the government.

As a result of the arrest and the commission of inquiry, Britain has indicated its willingness to impose direct rule over the territory. This will result in the suspension of BVI's Constitution and the dissolution of its government.

This cannot be good for any democracy, even a limited one, as exists in the BVI. While Britain has the powers to act, this move is perceived as too authoritarian and a slap in the face of BVI's citizens

who exercised their rights to vote in modern society.

Leaders of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) are opposed to the move.

Grenada's Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Mitchell, told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that the OECS leaders were of the view that they could not “support” the move by London. He said “the general feeling is that we don't understand why the British in the 21st century, making decisions similar to what they had done years ago in other countries”.

Seven OECS leaders said in a statement that “It is clear to us that, in principle, it is ill-advised to impose direct colonial rule and the history of such imposition in the Caribbean has never delivered the desired result.”

The OECS also addressed the arrest of Mr. Fahie, stating that “Like all persons charged with a criminal offense, Andrew Fahie is entitled to the presumption of innocence, procedural fairness, and a free and a fair trial within a reasonable time.”

We hope the series of events happening to the people of the British Virgin Islands will not dampen their spirits but increase their resolve to be better and learn from the experience.

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la section haitienne

Dominican diplomat released four days after kidnapping Leader of powerful Haitian gang extradited to US A diplomat from the Dominican Republic who was kidnapped by a gang in Haiti and kept for four days was released on Tuesday, according to the country’s Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez. Álvarez said Carlos Guillén, an attaché for the Dominican embassy, was “safe and sound”.

“We thank everyone who actively participated in his release,” the minister wrote on Twitter, although he did not give details.

Guillén was abducted last Friday through the Croix-des-Bouquets area on his way to the Dominican border city of Jimaní.

The 400 Mawozo gang is believed to have been responsible for Guillén’s kidnapping as well as several others.

His release came just hours after the gang’s leader, Germine Joly, was extradited to the United States.

The reputed leader of the infamous 400 Mawozo gang known for its mass kidnappings has been extradited to the United States to face charges related to the kidnapping of 16 American missionaries in 2021.

Haiti police confirmed that Germine Joly, alias Yonyon, was flown from Port-au-Prince to the US on a special FBI flight on Tuesday, following a request from the US on April 22.

An international warrant had been issued for Joly on charges of kidnapping American citizens and seeking ransom, importation of weapons of war, and conspiracy and violation of the US Export and Contraband Control Reform Act. The 400 Mawozo gang had threatened to “put a bullet” in 17 missionaries – 16 American and one Canadian – with Christian Aid Ministries if its demand for US$1 million ransom for each victim wasn’t met. Members

Joseph

A recent photo of the 400 Mawozo gang

The 400 Mawozo gang is said to also be responsible for armed conflict that has led to the deaths of at least 20 civilians in the past week and a half and forced hundreds of Haitians in its stronghold – the Croix-desBouquets area, east of the capital – from their homes. of the group, which included several young children, were released in groups last year.

The gang leader had been incarcerated in Haiti since 2015, accused of kidnapping, kidnapping for ransom, rape, armed robbery, murder, illegal possession of a firearm, and criminal association.

However, it has been alleged that he led his gang from prison, planning several

Carlos Guillén Tatis kidnappings from his cell.

The 400 Mawozo gang is said to also be responsible for armed conflict that has led to the deaths of at least 20 civilians in the past week and a half and forced hundreds of Haitians in its stronghold – the Croix-desBouquets area, east of the capital – from their homes.

Prime Minister Henry Urged to Declare State of Emergency Prime Minister Dr. Ariel Henry is being asked to declare a state of emergency for one month as Haitian authorities warn that rival gang warfare could further destabilize the country.

The Working Group on Security (GTS), a think tank on insecurity, comprising security experts, human rights organizations, trade unions and the private sector, as well as religious, academic and grassroots organizations, made their call following the bloody clashes between rival gangs, particularly in the Plaine du Cul-de-Sac, Croix-des-Missions, and Santo.

Residents reported intense automatic weapon fire as the “400 Mawozo” and “Chen Mechan” gangs clashed also in the north of the capital. The 400 Mawozo gang, which is considered the more powerful of the two and has long been accused of kidnapping and other violent acts, last year kidnapped 17 United States missionaries.

The Government Commissioner of Croixdes-Bouquets, Roosevelt Zamor, said special units of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) are continuing their operations with the help armored vehicles.

The PNH said it was urging the population, most of whom have been holed up in their homes, to remain clam as the operations continue.

The gangs already occupy the main road leading to Haiti's south, making it difficult for aid to reach those affected by a deadly earthquake last year.

Unofficial reports said at least 20 people have been killed since the start of the gang wars, and several others have been injured.

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A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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THE DIASPORA

Diaspora Gets Ready for Annual Community 5K Run/Walk Jamaican nationals and friends of the diaspora are getting ready for the third annual Community 5K Run/Walk on May 7, 2022, at the Miramar Regional Park in Miramar.

Warm-up will begin at 6:30 a.m., and the race will start at 7:30 a.m. simultaneously in five cities across the Southern USA. The cities include Atlanta, GA; Birmingham, Alabama; Charleston, South Carolina; Phoenix, Arizona; and Orlando, Central Florida, and the tricounty South Florida region.

Billed as the JAMAICA Hi-5 5K Run/Walk, the event was initiated by Consul General Oliver Mair and is intended to raise awareness and engage in healthy lifestyles in everyday living in the diaspora.

Consul General Mair continues to engage members of the diaspora in projects benefitting primary health care in Jamaica. Proceeds from annual registration continue to support the Adopt A Clinic (AAC) Program of the Ministry of Health and Wellness in Jamaica. So far, four clinics have been adopted in rural areas across

the island.

The event so far, has continued to garner positive response from the community as this year, registration numbers have already exceeded last year's count of 685 and still climbing.

Consul General Mair is urging persons to join the Community 5K Run/Walk as registration is still open at www.jamaicahi5krun.com. “You can join us by running, walking or even making a donation to the cause”, he said. “It's a great experience of giving back as we stay healthy”.

Training Program Consul General Mair has even developed a weekly training group free of charge to residents across the surrounding communities.

This has now been formalized with a coach, Jamaican sprinter, Daniel England. He has generously given his time to helping persons stay healthy. Other persons have contributed with all kinds of supporting regimen for healthy lifestyles. There have been health tips to eating, dance programs, yoga classes, boot-camps, name it and it has become a part of the weekly efforts.

Hi-5K Launch The annual Hi-5K was launched in October 2019, by Consul General Mair. This followed the effort of the Ministry of Health and Wellness' initiative “Jamaica Moves”, officially launched in April 2017, by Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton. As a result, it has now become part of the daily lifestyle of nationals at home. The Ministry of Health and Wellness developed Jamaica Moves to equip the community with the knowledge and information to live a healthier life. Mr. Mair took the challenge one step further as he engaged nationals to also become more active by promoting healthier lifestyles in the diaspora and at home.

Adopt-A-Clinic Programme The Adopt-A-Clinic programme under the Ministry of Health and Wellness, a primary health care renewal strategic initiative to engage the Jamaican private sector, and also members of the diaspora to play a critical role in improving the provision and access to primary health care in Jamaica. Under the AAC programme, a three-year Memorandum of Understanding is established between the

Ministry and the adopting agent. The adopted clinic benefits from a variety of donations, including a set financial obligation, mission trips and support teams from the benefactor.

Several clinics have already been adopted by the diaspora including the Atlanta-MoBay Sister Cities Program. While formal adoptions have not yet been established, several charitable groups such as the Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida, and the Kiwanis Club have done annual mission trips to support the adoption programme.

Mr. Mair praised the community associations, churches, educational institutions, corporations, and individuals for their active involvement in participating in the launch through physical participation, sponsorship and donations all contributing to the success of the event annually.

The Hi-5K event is geared not only at improving physical lifestyles, but also has a plethora of family fun activities and community participation. This includes the awards ceremony, competitions, promotional activities by sponsors, health workshops and screenings, brunch, and entertainment.

St. Kis Salary Increase

from A4

the next few months.

“The Select Committee and the Human Resource Management Department have successfully completed the work necessary to facilitate the integration of the first group of STEP workers into the public service as government auxiliary employees. Over the last two weeks, hundreds of people have received letters offering permanent employment with the government.”

Harris outlined other measures that have been implemented by his government to cushion the impact of the high increase in the cost of living including the reduction in the excise tax on the importation of fuel from EC$2.25 per gallon to EC$0.95 cents per gallon effective from April to September this year.

He said the government also granted an increase in the gas station dealers' margin by EC$0.30 cents and that the fuel subsidy programme will be extended for an additional six months.

The income and disability support programmes have been extended for an additional three months and will target people who remain unemployed due to job loss from the pandemic, and those whose income has been significantly reduced.

The government said the duty-free allowance usually permitted in December has been reintroduced from May 1 to September 30, and households will be able to import 500 pounds of food items free of duty and tax.

The government will introduce an eightmonth cap on the freight cost used in the calculation of duties and taxes that are paid on the importation of goods.

“This cap will help to moderate the rising prices as a result of increased freight cost. Let me take this opportunity to make very clear this government's firm expectation that all suppliers must pass on the benefit of this concession to consumers who face rising prices,” Harris said in his Labor Day message.

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HEALTH

May is

Lupus Awareness Month Drug-Induced Lupus

Lupus is a life-long chronic disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of the body. It's an autoimmune disease, which means your immune system — the body system that usually fights infections — attacks healthy tissue instead.

At least 5 million people suffer from Lupus globally, and is 2 to 3 times more prevalent in people of color including Africans, Hispanics and Asians. No two cases are alike and about 10 to 15 percent of Lupus patients die prematurely due to complications of the disease.

According to statistics, around 1.5 million Americans have Lupus, of which a whopping 90 percent are women. It usually affects women in their child-bearing years between the ages of 15 and 45.

Many symptoms of the disease mimic those of other illnesses making it difficult to diagnose. The diagnosis is based on a combination of physical symptoms and lab results and for most people it takes multiple tests to confirm a diagnosis.

The good news is that the survival rate of Lupus patients has improved when given proper treatment and early diagnosis. In 1955, patients diagnosed with the disease had a 50 percent survival rate at 5 years. Recent studies have shown that most patients with Lupus can expect to live a normal life span.

Lupus most commonly affects: • Skin • Joints • Internal organs, such as the kidneys and heart Because lupus affects many parts of the body, it may cause several different symptoms.

Neonatal Lupus

Cutaneous Lupus Systemic Lupus

Lupus symptoms There is no one first sign or symptom of lupus. The early signs and symptoms of lupus are the same, including extreme fatigue, joint pain, or a butterfly rash. However, the early signs vary widely from person to person.

Common signs and symptoms of lupus The most common lupus symptoms (which are the same for men and women) are: • • • • • • •

Extreme fatigue (feeling tired all the time) Pain or swelling in the joints Swelling in the hands, feet, or around the eyes Headache Low fever Sensitivity to sunlight or fluorescent light Chest pain when breathing deeply

Many people with lupus also have problems that affect their skin and hair: • A butterfly-shaped rash on the cheeks and nose

• • •

Hair loss Sores in the mouth or nose Fingers and toes turning white or blue and feeling numb when cold or stressed (Raynaud's Disease)

What causes lupus?

No one knows what causes lupus — but lupus and other autoimmune diseases run in families. Experts also think it may develop in response to certain hormones (like estrogen) or environmental triggers.

What are the types of lupus?

When people talk about lupus, they're usually talking about systemic lupus. But there are four types: • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form • Cutaneous lupus, is limited to the skin • Drug-induced lupus, a lupus-like disease caused by certain prescription drugs • Neonatal lupus, a rare condition that affects infants of women who have lupus Source: Lupus.org

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CONTINUATIONS

New Political Party from A4

working citizens who desire to fulfill our motto, together we aspire, together we achieve, therefore I invite every citizen of T&T to register your interest and desire to assemble under the banner of the NTA.” Griffith said this is the start of the process of national transformation.

“For those who share similar views that our nation requires immediate and urgent transformation, this is your bridge to that lighthouse,” he said, displaying the party's symbol, a lighthouse over an obscure image of people holding hands.

Griffith who served as commissioner of police from August 18, 2018, to August 17, 2021, claims he was improperly removed from office on the basis of unsubstantiated reports of firearm corruption.

Prior to that Griffith, served as a national security adviser, government senator, and national security minister at various times in the tenure of the United National Congress-led People's Partnership coalition between May 24, 2010, and February 2, 2015.

He was a temporary opposition senator from October 17, 2002, to September 28, 2007.

He also served in the defense force for 15 years, reaching the rank of captain.

Griffith, who hopes to become the next prime minister of the twinisland republic, is also the holder of a master's in security management from the Department of Criminology at the University of Leicester, United Kingdom.

BVI Premier Arrested An attorney for Fahie made the request in a filing with Miami federal court. Fahie, 51, was arrested last week during a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration sting as he was preparing to board a private jet in Miami.

According to a criminal complaint, Fahie and Oleanvine Maynard, his ports director, were at the airport to meet who they thought were Mexican drug traffickers but in reality, were undercover DEA agents. In the criminal complaint, Maynard refers to Fahie as a “little crook sometimes” who wouldn't hesitate to profit from a plan cooked up with the help of self-proclaimed Lebanese Hezbollah operatives to move mass quantities of cocaine and drug proceeds through the Caribbean island.

The shock arrest roiled the British Virgin Islands, where Fahie was already facing allegations of widespread corruption, and seemed to bolster calls to suspend the constitution for two years to clean up government and return to home rule by officials from London.

Fahie's attorney declined to comment, and in her two-page filing didn't provide details about her client's immunity claim. Fahie, who also serves as the finance minister, is said to have

from A1

traveled to Miami to attend a conference for the cruise industry and ahead of his departure had appointed a deputy to act as premier in his absence.

But any battle to assert immunity is likely to face numerous obstacles.

“Immunity doesn't protect you if you're on your own private boondoggle,” said Dick Gregorie, a former federal prosecutor in Miami who in the 1980s indicted the prime minister of Turks & Caicos, another British colony, on drug charges and then Panamanian strongman General Manuel Noriega.

Still, prosecutions of foreign officials are rare and going after the Caribbean island's top elected official would certainly have been greenlighted at the highest levels of the U.S. Justice Department and State Department given the potential impact.

For example, federal prosecutors in New York waited for Honduras' President Juan Orlando Hernandez to step down this year before indicting him on allegations of drug trafficking that first came to light in the trial of his brother.

“This isn't done willy-nilly. Prosecutors are

A Mayor’s Vow

from A1

city is “the heart and soul of the Jamaican Diaspora in the United States”.

“As Mayor, I want to thank the Jamaicans for their contribution at every level of commerce, public safety, health, innovation and education.

And having the Jamaicans here is a signal that we are going to strengthen those bonds that exist between us and look at the areas of education, expanding trade and increasing business between the City of New York and Jamaica,” Mayor Adams said.

Prime Minister Holness also thanked members of the diaspora for their contribution to the development of Jamaica and called on Jamaicans at home and abroad to come together to make Jamaica greater.

“The Government will be bringing together all our Jamaicans so that we can look at what we have achieved over the past 60 years and have Jamaicans recommit themselves to make Jamaica advance towards economic independence as we go forward,” Holness said.

The launch was also addressed by United States Senate Majority Leader Senator Charles Schumer of New York, Minister of Sports and Culture Olivia Grange and Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Alison Wilson.

TOP STORIES ON CNW NETWORK CARICOM “deeply concerned” at British moves to directly control affairs in BVI UWI appoints rst female principal for Trinidad campus Man dies, four hurt in Bermuda apartment block explosion Suriname to issue biometric passports

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clearly very confident in the evidence,” said Gregorie.

The string of islands of 35,000 people east of Puerto Rico is currently under a 2007 constitution giving it limited self-governance.

Governor John Rankin, who is Queen Elizabeth II's representative to the islands and its ultimate executive authority, said the arrests prompted him to release — earlier than originally intended — a report by a commission of inquiry launched in January 2021 to investigate allegations of widespread government fraud.

Governor Rankin said the inquiry concluded that millions of dollars were spent on projects, some of them linked to allies of the premier, that were abandoned or found to be of no public benefit.

“Some of them were, on their face, false,” the governor said.

The commission had concluded that “unless the most urgent and drastic steps are taken, the current situation with elected officials deliberately ignoring the tenants of good governance will go on indefinitely,” Rankin told the televised news conference.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 –

C1

ENTERTAINMENT

Kes Among the Performers at This Year's Essence Festival Trinidadian Soca stars Kes (aka Kes The Band) will perform on the main stage at this year's ESSENCE Festival of Culture in New Orleans on July 1.

This marks Kes' second appearance at the massive music festival and their first on the main stage at the 74,000-capacity Caesars Superdome. Last year saw the band perform

virtually from Trinidad at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture's first virtual edition.

“After getting a taste of the ESSENCE Fest experience virtually last year, we're excited to connect with the people live and direct this year and bring a bit of the Caribbean and our islands of Trinidad & Tobago to New Orleans,” said Kes front man Kees Dieffenthaller, who is also known individually as Kes. “This year, we are beyond excited to spotlight our international Essence family on the Main Stage at the Superdome,” said Stephanie Dunivan, Vice President of Experiential, Video and Branded Content for

ESSENCE. “We will be celebrating African and Caribbean music in the biggest way possible.

Bring your flags, rep where you're from…we are bringing Eastern Parkway vibes to the Dome!”

Kes will perform alongside Trinidad-born rapper Nicki Minaj, legendary Jamaican dancehall artiste Beenie Man, Trinidadian soca star Machel Montano and American country singer Mickey Guyton on the festival's Night Two, Friday, July 1, at the Caesars Superdome.

Kes

Dancehall Meets Country Reggae, WesRok and Laa Lee fuse genres with “Is There A Party” Jamaican singer WesRok is seeking to establish 'country reggae' as a bona fide brand of reggae music on the local and international stage.

The country reggae singer made musical moves with one of Jamaica's hottest dancehall's artistes Laa Lee, and what they produced in the studio is sure to keep fans vibing well into summer. Most definitely a next certified hit!

The new single “Is There A Party”, released on April 29, asks a relevant question in light of the entertainment sector now open, and answers the call by party promoters who have been without an avenue to relieve their stress for the past two years.

The dynamic duo of WesRok and Laa Lee feeds music lovers with fresh new music with an upbeat tune guaranteed to get people out of their seat and on their feet. WesRok is happy to

WesRok bring his authentic country reggae-infused style to the song while Laa Lee supplies that intoxicating flow that gets listeners moving their heads to the positive vibrations that the song provides.

Laa Lee is hot on the local scene with his smash hits Dirt Bounce and Bing Bong.

According to the Leggo Di Bird entertainer, now that people are free to go out again, he is

poised to capitalize on the number of upcoming events and just wants to be his usual creative self.

“I make music based on how I feel as I'm always happy, so I make happy music, you get me.”

When it comes to music, just like most things you cannot knock it until you've tried it.

While the two artistes may seem like an unlikely musical pairing, what they have fused will have epic results. WesRok who also produced the single, shared that fans will be pleased with the song as from the first notes they will be happy to find it happy and full of that party vibe that people are seeking now.

Emphasizing that the song has the potential to be a summer anthem, WesRok explained that he and Laa Lee were a musical fit from the get-go.

“It came about as Laa Lee has been getting the attention with Dirt Bounce, so a friend introduced him to me.”

Laa Lee is ecstatic about the collaboration with WesRok. He emphasized that the collaboration provided a smoother, different sound that people will think is new and exciting.

Laa Lee emphasized that it was an amazing experience working with WesRok and that there may be more collaboration with the artiste in the future.

Born Percival Buddan, WesRok is hopeful that with the reopening of the entertainment sector there will be more demand for musical events and the summer will be a bright one for him.

WesRok, who is a retired officer of the law, has a head for business and a degree to match in business administration. The country-reggae crooner is always striving to make moves that benefit not only him as an artiste but the overall genre as well.

Is There A Party is available for streaming on all digital music platforms.

C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 –

C3

SPORTS

Former Bermudian national goalkeeper Freddy Hall dies in car crash Tributes have been pouring in at home and abroad for former Bermuda goalkeeper Freddy Hall, who died aged 37 following a weekend car crash in St George's.

In addition to earning ten caps for Bermuda, Hall also played for a string of overseas clubs, including Canadian outfit Toronto FC, Northampton Town, AFC Telford, Burton Albion, Chester, and Oxford City in England as well as Limerick in Ireland.

Hall, who represented Bermuda at the Under-17 and Under-21 levels, made his senior national debut against Trinidad and Tobago in September 2011.

Neil Paynter, president of St George's Cricket Club, where Hall served as football chairman, said Hall's death was “a big loss not only for his family and St George's but for the community of Bermuda at large”.

He added: “The way I look at it as president, Freddy was one of our future leaders.

“We had high hopes and aspirations that once he finished with football, he would be a

Hall

leader in our community.”

Hall, who in the past also played cricket for the club, was “imparting a lot of his skills, assets, and knowledge”, Paynter said.

“He was always willing to pass it on to another goalkeeper, to improve our standards in Bermuda.

“He was a great guy, well-mannered, well respected, well-spoken, very polite and intelligent.”

Freddy Hall spent the 2011-12 season in England's League Two with Northampton, playing three times, and later played for

Telford in the National League before winning the Irish First Division title at Limerick, for whom he made 41 appearances.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of his passing,” a Northampton statement said.

“Our thoughts are with Freddy's family and friends at this very sad time.”

A Limerick tribute added: “Freddy served the club with distinction during his time here. The club extends its sincere condolences to Freddy's family at his tragic passing.”

TRACK & FIELD

Camperdown, KC, JC taste success as 126th Penn Relays end Camperdown High School returned to the pinnacle of sprinting at the 126th annual Penn Relays when they copped the High School Boys 4x100m Championships of Americas title for the first time in 16 years on Saturday.

The quartet of Rimando Thomas, Junior Harris, Jason Lewis, and Rashawn Clarke recorded 40.13 seconds for the win ahead of Jamaica College in 40.16 seconds, and St Jago High just back in 40.17 seconds for third place. Calabar High finished fourth as Jamaican schools occupied all but one of the nine places in the final.

It was Camperdown's first success in this event in 16 years.

There was more success for Jamaica, as Kingston College captured the High School Boys' 4x400m Championships of Americas

title in commanding fashion.

Kingston College recorded 3:09.52 minutes to beat Bullis School which recorded 3:11.90 minutes and St Jago High who timed 3:12.09 minutes.

Kingston College were led by Amal Glasgow, Shaemar Uter, Emmanuel Rwotomiya, and Marcinho Rose.

Jamaica College, the lone Jamaican entrant in the High Schools Boys 4x800m Championships of Americas event, duly

obliged with a facile victory in front of a raucous, partisan Jamaica crowd, which included Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

The Old Hope Road-based institution, parading Omarion Davis, Handal Roban, Kemarrio Bygrave and J'Voughnn Blake, posted a smart 7:28.38 minutes, number three on the all-time Penn Relays books, in their run-away victory.

Ridge finished in second place in 7:41.59 minutes, with West Springfield finishing in third place in 7:45.14 minutes.

Following a two-year break due to the novel Coronavirus pandemic, -the highly anticipated festival returned this year, and as usual Jamaican schools and supporters dominated.

In addition to claiming a number of field events in the high school category, Edwin Allen, and Hydel High claimed success in the High School Girls 4x100m, 4x400m and 4x800m Championships of Americas titles.

CRICKET / INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE

Injury sidelines Bravo again, as CSK lose Former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo was again a non-starter, and Chennai Super Kings stumbled to a 13-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League on Wednesday.

Bravo missed the previous match for the Super Kings against Sunrisers Hyderabad due to an injury and it appeared he was still fit again to play against Royal Challengers.

Chasing 174, CSK openers – Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway – emerged from a cautious start their side to 51 without loss after the power play.

But CSK started to unravel after Shahbaz Ahmed got Gaikwad caught at long-on for 28 in the seventh over and Australian Glenn Maxwell had Robin Uthappa caught at backward point for one in the next over.

Maxwell then bowled Ambati Rayudu for two, as CSK reached the halfway stage of their chase on 77 for three.

Conway, the South Africa-born New Zealand left-hander, transported his form from the previous match and reached his 50 after adding a six and a four following the strategic time-out.

But Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga claimed the crucial wicket of Conway caught at deep backward square in the 15th over for the top score of 56 from 37 balls, and CSK were 118 for four with five overs remaining.

Pacer Harshal Patel claimed three crucial wickets in the closing over and RCB completed a successful defence of the target.

Earlier, a quick-fire 42 from 27 balls from Mahipal Lomror piloted RCB to 173 for eight from their 20 overs after they were put in to bat.

RCB remained unchanged from their previous game, and their openers – former India captain Virat Kohli and former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis – got them off to a solid start, and RCB reached were 57 without loss at the end of the power play.

But three wickets – two to Ali – in the space of 16 balls rocked RCB between the eighth and 10th overs.

The England spin bowling all-rounder Moeen Ali got du Plessis caught at deep midwicket for 38 in the eighth over and bowled Kohli for 30 in the 10th over. In between, Maxwell was run out in the next over.

RCB were 79 for three at the halfway mark, and Lomror and Rajat Patidar helped them regain the momentum with a crucial stand of 44 for the fourth wicket. Both Patidar and Lomror added a four and six each.

RCB were 123 for three at the end of 15 overs before South African. Dwaine Pretorius got Patidar to a fine running catch by Mukesh Choudhary at deep backward square leg in the 16th over.

But off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana claimed three wickets in the penultimate over, including the prized scalp of Lomror to give his side a chance, but they failed to grasp it.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 5 – MAY 11, 2022 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T