Caribbean National Weekly May 6, 2021

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THURSDAY MAY 6, 2021

CNWEEKLYNEWS.COM

George ‘Wrong’

TOP STORIES Trinidad Gov’t Announces Minor Cabinet Reshufe

Diaspora Condemns Alleged Actions of Embattled Jamaican MP

Yvette Clarke Calls for TPS Designation for St. Vincent Nationals

T

Privy Council Says PNP Ofcials Must Testify in Tragura Case

Runcie George Wright

he Jamaican diaspora in South Florida is calling on the Andrew Holnessled administration and local Jamaican authorities to, once and for all, take a firm stance against Westmoreland Central member of parliament George Wright who, for the last month, has been embroiled in an extremely controversial assault scandal.

Wright, a member of the governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), is allegedly the person involved in a viral video, where the individual is seen physically abusing a woman who is believed to be his partner Tannisha Singh. Both individuals had filed reports to the police on April 6, but neither confirmed whether the videoed incident and the reported altercation were one in the same.

Despite the police closing the highly publicized case due to a lack of cooperation and claims of inconclusive video footage of the woman being repeatedly and mercilessly beaten with the man’s fists and a stool, Wright was shunned from the JLP’s parliamentary caucus. He has also gone on a paid leave of absence from the House of Representatives.

Since the incident came to the fore, an amalgamation of advocacy groups including social justice, business and religious communities have called on Wright to resign. Dr. Allan Cunningham, Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Representative for

Beenie Man Pleads Guilty to Breaching COVID-19 Protocol Raul Castro Steps Down as Cuba’s Communist Party Chief

continues on B4 – George ‘Wrong’

FLORIDA

Governor Lifts All COVID-19 Restrictions Normalcy is being returned to Florida sooner than many thought after state Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he would be lifting all remaining COVID-19 safety restrictions.

On Monday, the Republican governor signed legislation giving himself authority to invalidate local emergency measures put in place by communities across the state during the pandemic — including mask mandates, limitations on business operations and the shuttering of schools.

“We don’t know what’s going to happen in the

future,” DeSantis said, “but I think this creates a structure that’s going to be a little bit more respectful, I think, of people’s businesses, jobs, schools and personal freedom.”

In addition to signing the law, which goes into effect July 1, he also signed a pair of executive orders to move more quickly, meaning that existing coronavirus measures enacted by local governments — such as requiring masks — would be abolished immediately. The order also permanently bans vaccine passports in the state.

In announcing the order at a press conference in St. Petersburg, DeSantis said at

this point in the pandemic, it is unnecessary to be policing people. He added: “Are saying you don’t believe in the vaccines, you don’t believe in the data, you don’t believe in the science?”

Since the announcement, several local leaders have expressed their disapproval of DeSantis’s order.

For Broward County Mayor Steve Geller, he is concerned that the order could send a message to Broward residents, including the large CaribbeanAmerican community, that they don’t need to be vaccinated.

“I am concerned that the COVID crisis may not be

DeSantis

Broward County Lifts Most Capacity Restrictions and Sanitation Requirements for Outdoor Activities Veteran Jamaican Journalist Michael Sharpe Has Died Brazil Variant of COVID-19 Detected in Trinidad

continues on B4 – Lifts Restrictions

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

COMMUNITY

HEALTH

SPORTS

Meet the First Black Person to Head Miami-Dade County IT Department A3

Trinidad Back On Lockdown After COVID-19 Surge A4

Election Announced to Fill Alcee Hasting’s Congressional Seat B1

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Are You at Risk? B3

Elaine ThompsonHerah Runs Season’s Best at Florida Meet C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 Black Beauty: This belle was spotted at the recent Florida staging of I Love Soca that was part of the new and exciting Xaymaca Weekend. – Contributed

Costumes on deck, these road revelers are ready to dance through the streets of Fort Lauderdale to the sounds of sweet soca at the Xaymaca Road march. – Contributed

Dj Radcliff (left) and Melvin Foster of the Jamaica Men of Florida paused from vibing with the music for a photo op at the recent 50th birthday bash for Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami Oliver Mair. – Contributed

The Broward Community & Family Health Centers Inc. recently opened their new Lauderhill ofce, which furthers the organization’s commitment to providing accessible, comprehensive, high-quality primary and preventive care services to all. Pictured left to right is: Damary Martinez, Lead Site Administrator-South; Fabiola Duncan, Lauderhill Site Administrator; Felicia Hart, Chief Operating Ofcer; Commissioner Dale V.C. Holness, Broward D9 Commissioner/FY 2020 Mayor); Rosalyn Frazier, Chief Executive Ofcer; Ryan Robinson, Lead Site Administrator-North; and Felicia Brunson, Mayor of West Park. – Contributed

Feting fun! These ladies decided to show this gentleman exactly how to have a good time at Xaymaca Weekend’s I Love Soca this past Saturday. – Contributed

Dr. Allan Cunningham (center), Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Representative for the Southern States, and City of Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam (right) share a moment with birthday boy Oliver Mair. – Contributed

These ladies came out to make memories ‘on di road’ last Sunday at the Xaymaca Road march. – Contributed

Riddims marketing executives Eddie and Bridget Edwards strike a pose for the Page 2 lens at the celebratory event for Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami Oliver Mair in Southwest Ranches. – Contributed

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE ABOUT MARIJUANA.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM –

A3

NEWSMAKER

Margaret Brisbane

First Black Person to Head Miami-Dade County IT Department No matter where in the world they go, Jamaicans manage to become trailblazers and leaders in their respective fields, even sometimes making history in the process. This is true of Margaret Brisbane, a Jamaican-born information technology (IT) specialist who recently made history by becoming the first woman and first black individual to be appointed as Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Director of the Information Technology Department (ITD) of MiamiDade County, Florida.

Brisbane holds the double distinction of being the first woman and the first person of color to serve in this role. In response to her remarkable success, she noted, “I am proud to step into this new role and looking forward to continuing to serve Miami-Dade as we build an even stronger department, developing technology solutions to meet the unique challenges of this current moment, and providing excellent services to our residents.”

Margaret Brisbane was named Female Technology Leader of the Year by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. And her most recent award is the ‘Ones to Watch’ from the CIO Executive Council.

Brisbane Brisbane's historic appointment was announced on April 27 by Mayor of Miami-Dade County Daniella Levine Cava and took effect immediately. In her new role,

Brisbane leads a team of IT professionals in servicing the technology needs of the county, which is home to nearly three million people. She had served previously as

interim director of ITD since February.

Speaking on her appointment, Miami Dade Mayor Levine Cava said, “I’m thrilled that a woman will be running our technology department as we lead by example from within county government in uplifting diverse leaders in tech.”

The Jamaican’s promotion follows a long and distinguished track record of professional and community involvement. During her 20-year career, she led the Telecommunications Center of Excellence for various Diageo brands, and worked on restaurant systems support as well as Point of Sales system implementation for various domestic and international locations.

Prior to joining the county, she served as Director of Service Delivery for Burger King Corporation.

Her current team provides support to all County Departments including enterprise solution for Financial, Payroll, Human Resources, Public Safety, Legislative, Commerce and the PeopleSoft systems. The team also supports document and asset management and geospatial systems, as well as major technology projects to include, but not limited to, Criminal Justice, Permitting and Code Enforcement, Radio and INFORMS. An alumna of the Florida International University (FIU) and Nova Southeastern University, Brisbane’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in International Marketing and a Master of Business Administration respectively.

Additional achievements include a certificate in Executive Leadership from Harvard University, the Torch award from FIU, and she was named Female Technology Leader of the Year by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. Her most recent award is the ‘Ones to Watch’ from the CIO Executive Council.

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A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN Another Month Of Weekend Lockdowns for Jamaica On Tuesday, Jamaica recorded a COVID-19 positivity rate of 8 percent, the lowest its been in eight weeks. But the island’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness cautioned residents against celebrating prematurely.

Prime Minister Holness said that while the numbers are a sign that the stricter measures implemented in March have worked, the island is still in the danger zone.

While in parliament on Tuesday, Holness announced that the current COVID-19 measures will remain in place for the next month, with some changes to the weekend lockdowns. He said the extension was recommended by the ministry of health and wellness.

“As of this weekend, the curfew will begin 6:00 pm on Saturday and at 2:00 pm on Sunday and will end at 5:00 am the following day. And this will run for the next four weeks,” he said.

The weekday 8 PM curfew will remain in place until June 3rd. The Prime Minister also announced a total lockdown of the country on Jamaica’s Labour Day on May 24th.

As it relates to travel, the Prime Minister also announced a travel ban on India and Trinidad and Tobago until June 2nd. This is in addition to the ban on travel from six South American countries. All other travel protocols, including the negative test requirement, will also remain in place.

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Trinidad Back On Lockdown After COVID-19 Surge The Trinidad and Tobago government had announced a partial lockdown after the country recorded a new COVID-19 one-day record of 328 new cases last Thursday.

“

The numbers we are seeing now are slightly ahead of the projected numbers that we would have made in some quarters and in some other quarters, we would see the curve not going in the direction we would like it to go... – Rowley

The country has now recorded in excess of 10,000 COVID-19 cases since the first reported infection in March 2020.

“The numbers we are seeing now are slightly ahead of the projected numbers that we would have made in some quarters and in some other quarters, we would see the curve not going in the direction we would like it to go,” said Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley in announcing the new stricter measures.

He said that all restaurants, bars, malls, places of worship, gyms, fitness centres as well as spas, hairdressing and beauty places, casinos, cinemas, continues on B4 – Trinidad Lockdown

Grenada Bans Travellers from India and Brazil Grenada on Tuesday announced a ban on persons entering the island with a travel history that includes visits to India and Brazil in the past 14 days as it seeks to curb the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“This means that no one with a 14-day travel history from India or Brazil will be allowed to enter Grenada. Persons will have to spend the relevant time in a third-party state that will allow them to enter,” Health Minister Nickolas Steele told reporters at the end of the weekly Cabinet meeting.

He said that Cabinet had agreed to restrict travellers from these two countries on the advice of the COVID committee and chief medical

officer. Both countries have reported a significant jump in COVID-19 infections, with India recording more than 20 million cases.

Grenada at present has one active imported asymptomatic case. Since the start of the pandemic, the island has recorded 161 cases with one death.

The island’s vaccination programme, which began on February 12, is ongoing and the authorities have reported that more than 13,000 people have received the first dose while more than 3,000 are fully vaccinated using the AstraZeneca vaccine.

But the health officials have openly expressed concern about the slow pace of

vaccination which is provided for every citizen above the age of 18.

Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Shawn Charles said that a significant number of healthcare workers are hesitant to get vaccinated while several frontline workers in the tourism/hospitality sector are even refusing to be tested even though they have been classified as “potentially exposed.

“These individuals are defiance and are resisting testing,” Charles said during the briefing. He explained these workers are mainly those in the housekeeping department of hotels and other accommodations that are used to quarantine persons upon arrival to the island. continues on A7 – Grenada Bans Travellers

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TALKUP

Do You Think Its A Good Idea for Florida to Suspend All COVID-19 Restrictions at This Stage of the Pandemic?

On May 3, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis suspended all COVID-19 restrictions in the state, saying that he doesn’t consider the state to be in a crisis anymore with the vaccine now in ample supply.

DeSantis issued an executive order immediately suspending COVID-19 emergency orders put in place by counties and cities. This includes masks orders and orders governing social distancing. The Governor also signed legislation that will make his COVID-19 vaccine passport ban permanent.

Following the announcement, several local leaders including Broward County Mayor Steve Geller, Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber and St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman expressed their disapproval for DeSantis’s orders. Although it means more freedom, many South Florida residents also disagree with the Governor. We asked residents if they think it’s a good idea for the state to do away with all COVID-19 restrictions. Here are the responses:

Imani Ingram: No, I don’t. The virus is still alive and well, and everyone is not yet vaccinated or willing to get the vaccine. I think that we should still be following COVID protocols until the virus is completely under control.

You can also look for us in Jamaica

Maya Williams: Not ‘all’. COVID-19 is still a threat. New cases are being reported by the day. C19 restrictions should align with the level of threat.

As more people get vaccinated and as numbers decline, restrictions can be lifted. And eventually ‘all’ restrictions can be lifted once this pandemic is a thing of the past.

Christy Brown: No, I think the state should gradually reopen in phases and still enforce social distancing, as well as a mask mandate so as to not cause another surge in positive COVID-19 cases.

As it is right now though, masks are required by some companies. People have a lack of regard to follow the companies’ standpoint in protecting everyone, whether vaccinated or not. And it’s sad that this pandemic has changed the world but some people still take it lightly. Though more and more people are getting vaccinated, you can still be infected during the phases of your vaccination, i.e. during the 21 or 28 day time frame from your first to second shot. We should err on the side of caution until the majority of the population is vaccinated and we truly have a better grip on COVID-19.

Stacy Rose: Absolutely not! Why the hurry?

We're finally turning the corner on this battle with COVID-19. What's the harm in waiting until a larger percentage of the population has been vaccinated? We are an indisciplined nation. We want what we want when we want it with little regard for consequences.

Michael Taylor: I strongly feel as though reopening the state is a step in the right direction.

It’s time to get back to a sense of normalcy.

However, I feel as though the governor should save a more smooth transition into reopening the state. It’s like he just ripped the Band-Aid off without gradually peeling it back so a lot of people may feel uneasy because they feel as though it’s happening too soon.

Mel Timothee: I think we need to go under a strict lockdown. My grandmother currently is in the hospital with COVID going on 2 weeks so they need to put very strict laws in place to avoid this from getting worse.

A5

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A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

editorial

A Serious Discussion about Violent Crimes Against Women in Jamaica

By K. Grey As a domestic violence advocate and a former board member of Safespace Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to the advocacy and empowerment of domestic violence victims, I watched in utter horror at the actions of the individual in the video that has now gone viral.

For far too long, violence against women has been a silent crime of acceptance among people of Caribbean descent. And the time has long passed for us as Jamaicans to excuse this kind of heinous violent behavior as "man and woman business".

Domestic violence, in the US, is defined as physical abuse inflicted by an intimate partner (i.e. spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend). It is an equal opportunity crime, and it has no racial or socio-economic boundaries. Why does it take a man of this stature for us to have a serious discussion about violent crimes against women in Jamaica?

Domestic violence is a complex issue with far reaching consequences. Left unresolved, the circle of violence remains

unbroken. Children who witness acts of domestic violence are more likely to experience emotional and behavioral problems and may grow up to be abused or become abusers in adulthood. When we know better, we must do better; if not for the adults, then for the children.

It’s time for a cultural shift when it comes to violent crimes against women and children, including rape. When we know victims of domestic and sexual abuse feel unsafe to bring charges against their abuser, we must question our authority to govern, and look inwardly to what must be done as a governing body to protect its citizens against these harmful and, in many cases, deadly acts. No one is above the law, and law enforcement (police and courts) should never protect those in positions of power from accountability for their actions.

Action must be taken to ensure he does not do this to anyone again.

To see a man physically put his body weight against a woman to leverage his ability to pummel her, and then take a stool to further inflict physical harm is criminal and unacceptable behavior. We must do better as a lawful society with laws on the books about violent crimes as there are at least

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Stills from the recent viral video where a male is seen mercilessly reigning blows down on a woman with his fists and a stool for nearly two minutes.

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155 countries in the world that have passed laws against domestic violence making it a criminal act.

People must be held accountable for their actions. Let's resolve to ‘Stomp Out Domestic Violence’ and raise awareness to help victims of violence without judgment.

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A7

la section haitienne

Church Ave. Now Named After Haitian born Philanthropist World famous Church Ave in the heart of the Caribbean communities in Brooklyn, New York will now also bear the name of, renowned Haitian philanthropist and founder of Catholic Charities, the Venerable Pierre Toussaint, who emerged from slavery to sainthood.

Haitian-born Councilmember Dr. Mathieu Eugene, who represents the predominantly Caribbean 40th Council District in Brooklyn, has partnered with the Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens, New York to co-name Church Avenue Pierre Toussaint Boulevard.

Dr. Eugene, the first Haitian to be elected to New York City Council, sponsored legislation in the City Council back in 2019; Intro 1631, to co-name Church Avenue as Pierre Toussaint Boulevard.

The councilman in an interview with Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) said that when he looks at the life of Pierre Toussaint, he feels “empowered and inspired, because he was enslaved and came to this country as an immigrant like myself.

Toussaint was born a slave in 1766 in the French colony of Saint Domingue, which is modern-day Haiti.

Eugene said Toussaint and his wife

Toussaint

devoted their lives to helping the poor and needy in New York City, working hand-inhand in aiding refugees in finding jobs and raising funds for several orphanages.

A staunch member of the Catholic Church, Toussaint was one of the benefactors of the multi-national Catholic School in New York City called St. Vincent de Paul.

He died Jun. 30, 1853 at 87, two years

Grenada Bans Travellers “Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect people from diseases,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Charles says the authorities have noticed that while there is now a policy in place allowing for fully vaccinated persons entering the island to spend 48 hours in quarantine, people are travelling as part of a group with unvaccinated persons.

“There are persons who are not vaccinated, and they do not carry the same level of protection against the disease. That is

after the death of his wife, Juliette.

Years after Toussaint's death, several groups and individuals started to advocate for consideration for sainthood for Toussaint.

In 1991, New York Cardinal John O'Connor sent the necessary documents to the Vatican; and, five years later, Toussaint he was named venerable by Pope John Paul II.

from A4

why if you have a mixed group and they cannot be separated they have to be treated as unvaccinated,” Dr. Charles said.

He said there were persons who may want to trick the system with fake documents like vaccine cards or PCR test results.

“We examine all vaccine cards at Ports of Entry and our health officers have the right to refuse that document if they think it’s not authentic. In addition, any document we believe that is not authentic we will follow up with the issuing country with the issuing agency while that person remains in

quarantine,” he said.

“We also test all these individuals, these individuals get a PCR test on arrival,” he said while confirming that the cards that are issued by Grenada can also be subject to scrutiny by other states and once an inquiry is made, the answer will be provided easily because the names of all individuals who receive the COVID vaccine is logged into a system.

“So, questions as to whether someone from Grenada is vaccinated or not, they can simply make a call to us,” he added.

Haiti to Hold Referendum in June Haiti has signaled its intention to hold a controversial referendum ahead of presidential and general elections despite growing international criticism.

“A referendum is an act of sovereignty. It essentially concerns Haitians: they are the ones who decide whether or not they want a referendum to change the Constitution,” Prime Minister Claude Joseph told a news conference on Tuesday.

Port au Prince says while it does not intend to abandon its project it remains open to dialogue.

“Some of the concerns expressed by our international friends are well-founded and legitimate,” Joseph told his first news conference since he was appointed Prime Minister on April 14.

“A referendum must indeed be an inclusive process, that’s why the president has initiated the process of dialogue,” he added.

The United States last week reiterated its position that elections should be held in the country. Washington has also said it does not intend to provide financial support for the constitutional referendum.

“We have repeatedly stated that constitutional reform is for the Haitian people to decide. We’ve emphasized to the Haitian government that the US government will not provide financial support for a constitutional referendum,” said State Department spokesman Ned Price.

President Jovenel Moise, who has been facing calls for his resignation, has been ruling by decree after legislative elections due in 2018 were delayed and following disputes on when his own term ends. In addition to presidential, legislative and local elections in September, Moise wants to submit a new draft of the constitution to a popular vote on June 27.

A senior government minister, Mathias Pierre, has been quoted as saying that materials for the referendum will arrive in Haiti on May 15.

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM –

B1

COMMUNITY

Election Announced to Fill Hastings’s Seat A special primary election to fill the seat of the late U.S. Representative Alcee Hastings will be held in November, followed by a deciding general election two months later, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced Tuesday.

Hastings, a Democrat from the Fort Lauderdale area, died April 6. He announced two years ago that he had pancreatic cancer.

At least seven Democrats and one Republican have said they will seek to fill the vacancy in the heavily Democratic district.

Those looking to take over from Hastings include Jamaican-born Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness, a former mentee and longtime friend of Hastings; another Broward Commissioner, Barbara Sharief;

Broward County Public Schools has partnered with the Florida Department of Health to administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to students who are 16 years old or older.

Holness

Messam

Sharief

continues on B4 – Up For Grabs

Over 50 Percent of Broward Residents Vaccinated More than half of Broward County’s population eligible for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine have received at least the first dose.

Since beginning vaccinations on January 3, 2021, the county has gone from supporting two public vaccination sites to now supporting 10.

County officials have, however, expressed their concerns over the slowing of vaccinations in the last few weeks. “Everyone that wanted urgently to get the vaccine has already gotten it,” said Mayor Steve Geller.

As a result of the increase in the number of vaccination sites throughout the county, Broward County has administered at least one

Broward Schools to Begin OnCampus Vaccinations

dose of COVID-19 vaccine to 829,000 people as of May 3rd. Some 575,000 of that number have been fully vaccinated. This means that Broward has achieved an adult vaccination rate for at least one shot of approximately 53 percent.

Broward County has achieved higher vaccine coverage in all age groups in comparison to the state as a whole, especially in more vulnerable populations. Over 81 percent of residents aged 65 years and older have been vaccinated.

To increase the rate of vaccinations in in the county, officials have announced new initiatives, which include:

Door-to-door outreach and partnerships with Broward County Public Schools, Florida Department of Health, faith-based institutions and municipalities Access to vaccines at public high schools and participating charter schools, targeting Broward students age 16+ and their families Extended hours at existing vaccination sites to accommodate various work schedules for residents Pop-up sites based upon vaccination trends, with locations determined based on consultations with faith-based and community leaders

Pfizer is the only FDA-approved vaccine that can be administered to 16 and 17-yearolds.

“I think the health department is looking for unique ways to get the whole community vaccinated, so this is just another way that they can ensure that everyone has access to it,” Broward Schools Chief Portfolio Services Officer John Sullivan said. “So we’re very happy to partner with them to make it available to our school community.”

The vaccination team will travel from school to school, beginning on Tuesday, May 4 and ending on May 13. The shots will be provided on a walk-up basis, so no appointments are necessary. Students under 18 must be accompanied by a parent to receive the Pfizer vaccine. Family members and school faculty will also be eligible to receive the vaccine.

For a complete list of schools visit CaribbeanNationalWeekly.com or scan the QR Code on the front to read this and more

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B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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B3

HEALTH & WELLNESS

3

Are You at Risk for Skin Cancer?

You know those days when your normal schedule gets thrown completely out the window? You're tired, overrun and can barely think about the next thing on your to-do list, let alone work on your larger goals or concentrate on your health?

When you're flying at rapid speed throughout your day and could use a small win, registered dietitian Paul Kriegler suggests trying a few of these five-minute health commitments:

More people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, then, that people of every age, race and gender are affected by the disease.

Simply put, if you have skin, you can get skin cancer. However, some people are at higher risk for the disease than others.

Understanding the factors contributing to your chances of developing skin cancer can help you prevent the disease.

“There is a clear connection between ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and a higher risk of skin cancer,” says Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “Everyone should be taking steps to protect themselves, but those with additional risk factors need to be particularly vigilant with their sun protection routine.”

Skin Type The first major factor affecting your risk for skin cancer is your skin type. According to the scientific classification known as Fitzpatrick skin typing, there are six types of skin ranging from very fair (type 1) to very dark (type 6).

The system classifies skin based on the amount of melanin (skin pigment) a person has, and their skin’s reaction to sun exposure.

People with skin types 1 and 2 face the highest risk of developing skin cancer, while those with skin types 5 and 6 are at the lowest risk.

Other physical attributes associated with a lack of melanin can contribute to your risk of skin cancer as well — those with red hair, light eyes and freckles also face higher chances of developing the disease.

Your History of Sun Exposure Unprotected exposure to UV rays, whether outside or in a tanning bed, is a key risk factor for skin cancer as well. Sunburns are especially harmful (just five sunburns can double your risk of developing melanoma) but even if you tan rather than burn, you’re sustaining sun damage that can lead to DNA mutations.

Indoor tanning specifically causes your risk to skyrocket, as one study found that those who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent.

Simple Ways to Boost Your Health

Whip up a sustainable energy boost:

Genetics and Family History If you have close relatives who have been diagnosed with skin cancer, this is a sign you’re also at higher risk. This is especially true when it comes to melanoma: one in every 10 patients has a family member who has also had the disease. Having many moles is another risk factor for melanoma, especially if they are large (bigger than a pencil eraser) or atypical.

Having lots of moles and a family history of skin cancer makes a person’s risk even higher. This combination is often referred to as Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome.

What Can You Do? No matter your risk factors, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a complete sun protection routine including covering up with clothing, hats and UV-blocking sunglasses, seeking shade and avoiding peak sunlight hours (10 AM to 4 PM). Apply a broadspectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day, and for extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broadspectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Be sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day: at least every two hours or more often if you are swimming or excessively sweating.

Those with many risk factors may want to use sunscreen products with a higher SPF and be extra vigilant about avoiding incidental sun exposure.

Think of food as fuel for your body. When you're busy and on the run, don't forget to pack healthy lunches and snacks to keep you nourished throughout the day. A protein and powdered green shake is the perfect quick snack or lunch, or make a 3-ingredient salad.

All you need is lettuce, a protein, and another veggie.

Fit in a workout: A workout doesn't have to disrupt your entire day. If you find yourself with five minutes to spare, get up and move. When you're at work, run up and down the side stairs of your office, or while at home, do three to six yoga poses to target a particular body part or objective.

Take time for yourself: “When you're constantly on the go, remembering to take time for yourself can be a challenge,” says Kriegler. “Whether you have to get up five minutes early or stay up five minutes late, fit in some time to connect with yourself.” Try a five-minute meditation to relax your body, or walk outside for a few minutes of sun and fresh air.

Although these may seem like minor tips, these small wins can help you on your journey toward a healthier way of life.

You can’t believe everything you read!

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B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CONTINUATIONS

George ‘Wrong’ the Southern States, said in an interview with Caribbean National Weekly, “When I saw the video, I was shocked and disappointed that these kinds of incidents of abuse are still taking place in our society. And for it to be a member of parliament, an elected official caught abusing a woman in such a wicked fashion, it speaks to the breakdown of morals in our society and the disregard that men on a whole have for women.”

Cunningham went on further to say that the Jamaican government should make its position on abuse firmly known while making an example of the situation. He continued, “I was 100 percent disappointed with the decision of the government and even more disappointed by such an archaic justice system. To have such a blatant act of criminality go unpunished is a low moment for Jamaica. This is one moment when I am not proud of the country.”

Youth and Community Advocate Lavern Deer, who is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Female Development World Organization, said that watching the video was painful and traumatizing for her. “As a child growing up in Jamaica, I witnessed the same things happening on my street. As

from A1

children, we would be playing. Then, we see a man and a woman start to argue and the man just starts beating the woman. And, it just became a norm.”

In regards to how the case was handled by authorities, she said that the country needs to revisit its laws to achieve long-term change.

"As Jamaicans, we need to look at the root cause if we are going to attempt to solve this as a community. It starts with the laws, the policies and the rules. And we have to ask: are they enough to protect us, the citizens?” She further stated that this behavior should never be condoned, regardless of the status of the perpetrator. “It is just not acceptable; it is against human rights.”

In speaking to the leave of absence granted to Wright, Deer also said, “It is hard to say if [the leave] is a sufficient consequence. It is, however, similar to what happens in America and the Black Lives Matter movement where police are killing unarmed black men and [the policemen’s] punishment does not fit the crime.”

Many have also been critical of the public response from Wright’s own church, the St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Westmoreland, Jamaica, in saying that it will not turn its back

Lifts Restrictions over in the state of Florida. I am concerned that by issuing an order saying that local governments cannot have any restrictions at all whatsoever, coupled with his order prohibiting vaccine passports, that this is sending a message to people that they don’t need to be vaccinated any longer,” he said at a press conference.

Over 50 percent of adults in Broward County have received at least the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. But Mayor Geller says this is not enough. “We need to be somewhere between 70 and 85 percent to

on him. To this end, Jamaican-American rector of the Holy Family Episcopal Church in Miami Gardens Father Horace Ward said it is not problematic for the church to show support for Wright. He opined, however, that in doing so they must also condemn the alleged abuse.

“It’s not that the local church community has condoned the actions on video, but rather [it expresses] God’s love. That’s a huge distinction.” Ward quickly followed, however, with expressing his concern about the recent wave of killings and abuse against Jamaican women. He said, “This must stop now and I will do by part in speaking out against these violations of our women.”

To date, despite the local and international condemnation and calls for George Wright’s resignation, the member of parliament has given no indication that he plans to resign from Jamaica’s House of Representatives.

from A1

achieve herd immunity,” he said.

Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber, whose city is within a county that was among the hardest hit by the coronavirus outbreak, said, “It feels like he’s spiking the ball on the 10yard line … he’s been following political ideology more than science during this whole pandemic.”

St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman suggested that it was thanks to local governments that the death toll wasn’t higher. “To be clear, cities like St. Pete, Tampa, Orlando, Miami and Miami Beach,

saved Florida and the governor’s behind throughout this pandemic. Can you imagine if each city had been led by Ron DeSantis?

How many lives would have been lost? What would our economy look like today?”

Kriseman tweeted.

To date, Florida has fully vaccinated some 37 percent of its population of over 21 million people. But the governor has expressed confidence that the worst of the pandemic is now over.

Trinidad Lockdown from A4

theatres and clubs, will be closed until May 23.

In addition, the public service will operate on essential services.

Rowley said that in the case of Tobago, there will be a cut in the number of flights to the island, as well as a reduction in the number of passengers utilizing the sea bridge. All tours to areas of recreation will also be curtailed in both islands.

The government also announced that the police would now be able to enter private homes and end activities that contrive the existing health protocols.

“Some of the people who we think should lead this country at their locations, their homes and their communities because they are in a position to lead…they have been the ones who have been putting themselves about the regulations (and are saying the measures) don’t apply to me, it does not apply in my neighbour.

“I could organize a party because the police cannot come in here and the police cannot tell me what to do. Yes, the police will be able to tell you what to do home. You see before we took the position that we would not overly intrude on the individual freedoms even as we fight the virus.

“But if in so doing persons are using that to misbehave and create situations that threaten the rest of the country then I want to let the country know that the existing laws and regulations of Trinidad and Tobago, I have been properly advised by lawyers who have been properly trained, and the advice that I have is that the existing laws in the public health and the regulations that flow from there allow the police to intervene in private spaces if the police are of the opinion that what is going on in that private space is detrimental to the public interest,” Rowley said.

He told reporters that the figures have shown that with all the cautions being thrown to the wind “the only thing we can do now in Trinidad and Tobago to evade a disaster brought on by COVID-19 in its second year is to intervene and to interrupt the distribution of the virus among the population”.

Rowley said that the introduction of the vaccine had also contributed to persons engaged in a relaxation of the various protocols, such as wearing masks, social distancing and washing hands.

‘We still have a lot of people who believe COVID is a hoax,” he said, adding that behaviours at home also contributed to the spread of the virus.

Rowley said recently the United States had indicated it would be making approximately 60 million doses of the virus available to other countries and Trinidad and Tobago was hoping to be among those benefiting from the gesture.

Hastings Seat from A9

Florida Senator Perry Thurston; and City of Miramar Wayne Messam.

During a news conference in Miami, DeSantis announced that the primary would be held Nov. 2. Candidates who win their party’s nomination would advance to a general election set for Jan. 11, 2022.

With a slim majority in Congress, there was some urgency among Democrats to fill the vacancy left by Hastings’ death. One candidate recently filed a lawsuit seeking to force DeSantis to schedule the special election.

“I know there will be a lot of folks that want to run for it. So, hopefully, that gives them enough time to be able to get on the ballot and do whatever they need to do to be competitive,” the governor said.

The 20th Congressional District encompasses much of the Black communities in the Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach areas. Hastings won nearly 80 percent of the vote in November.

Under Florida law, DeSantis was required to call a special election although he has wide discretion as to when.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM –

C1

ENTERTAINMENT

A

Delcita to Delight for Mother’s Day Spice, Sean Paul & Shaggy Dominate Global Reggae Charts The newly released single, “Go Down Deh” from the “Queen of Dancehall,” Spice featuring Sean Paul and Shaggy has dominated global reggae charts.

The single debut at #1 on US and Israeli iTunes Reggae, #2 in the UK, Italy and Canada, and Top 10 on Apple Music, iTunes and Deezer in multiple countries including Japan, Jamaica (#1 on Apple Music), Germany and the Netherlands.

The correlating music video – directed

by Jay Will (credits include: M.I.A, Lee Scratch Perry, Kayne West, Shaggy, Major Lazer) – premiered on BET last weekend and has since garnered 1 million YouTube views and is the number one YouTube video in Jamaica.

The song also sits atop Tidal Reggae and

Shaggy, Spice and Sean Paul

Dancehall Video hits.

The hypnotic “Go Down Deh” – produced by Grammy Award nominee, Costi Ionita and Shaggy and written by Spice, Sean Paul, Shaggy, Costi and Shane Hoosong – will be followed by Spice’s highly anticipated debut album, entitled TEN, slated for release on July 30.

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DJ Khaled Taps Buju, Capleton, Bounty and Barrington Levy for Legendary Collab

American producer DJ Khaled brought together four Jamaican music legends for a collaboration on his latest body of work ‘KHALED KHALED’.

The album features songs from Hip-Hop heavyweights JAY-Z, Nas, Lil Wayne, Drake and Diddy, but it is the legendary Buju Banton, Capleton, Bounty Killer and Barrington Levy who steal the show.

The track samples Barrington Levy’s 1985 hit song ‘Under Mi Sensi’, while the others supply the verses for the masterpiece titled ‘Where You Come From’. Levy also adlibs one of his iconic phrases throughout the song: “Hey, natty dreadlocks, a where you come from?”

While premiering the video on social media, DJ Khaled tweeted, “Let’s be CLEAR! All these artists have NEVER collaborated on one record before. This is HISTORY. JAMAICA I LOVE YOU!” The official music video was shot in Jamaica at the Holy Mountain estate in St. Ann. Since its release on May 1, the video has garnered over 3 million YouTube views and is currently the number two trending song on the platform.

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As South Florida continues to relax its COVID-19 protocols, face-to-face Caribbean theatre will resume with Jamaican actress and playwright Andrea ‘Delcita’ Wright debuting her brand-new play ‘The Baby Motha’ just in time for Mother’s Day. The live show will depict the family drama of a Jamaican common-law couple suffering emotional instability as the two are caught up in a custody battle. The female, Marsha Campbell, is an American citizen while the male, Mark Cameron, is visiting from Jamaica and hanging on to the strings of a possible first-world marriage.

On the other hand, Delcita is the long-time country bumpkin sweetheart of Mark Cameron’s character Barry, and she is anxiously awaiting his return to reggae-jamming Jamaica. Though Delcita is Barry’s ‘baby motha’, there is no guarantee that he will return to his third-world status.

Will Delcita have Barry extradited?

Will they have an out-of-court child maintenance settlement? Or, will Barry’s American lady love head to Jamaica to stop Delcita?

The scriptwriter Andrea Wright just penned the ‘Jamaica Entanglement’ for the successful Oliver-Delcita virtual matchup, and is now going live on stage with her exciting script for ‘The Baby Motha’. For those who wish to enjoy theatre from the comfort of their homes, ‘The Baby Motha’ will stream live at 7:30pm at www.caribbeanvillage.net.

The Baby Motha features: Andrea Wright, Marsha Campbell, Mark Cameron, Chandler Henry and Dreanna Williams.

Baby Motha is a Caribbean Village production and plays at Miramar Cultural Center Sunday, May 9, 2021.

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C3

SPORTS CRICKET

IPL Suspended Amid India’s COVID-19 Crisis

barred travelers from India, leaving many players, some from the West Indies, with limited routes to return home.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India decided to postpone the Indian Premier League, which started on April 9, after two staffers at Chennai Super Kings and a player for Sunrisers Hyderabad returned positive tests for COVID-19.

On Monday, the first cases involving players inside the IPL’s biosecure bubble forced a game between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore to be postponed.

“The BCCI does not want to compromise

The Indian Premier League, cricket’s richest and most glitzy competition, was suspended indefinitely after players or staff at three teams tested positive for the coronavirus on Tuesday amid a surge in nationwide infections.

Many of the world’s best players compete in the Twenty20 tournament and were scrambling to find ways to get back to their native countries. Countries including the United States and Australia have temporarily

COMMENTARY

on the safety of the players, support staff and the other participants,” the BCCI said.

“These are difficult times, especially in India. We have tried to bring in some positivity and cheer, however, it is imperative that the tournament is now suspended and everyone goes back to their families and loved ones in these trying times.”

The IPL staged 29 games without spectators, at least one every night until Monday, despite India’s stretched health system being pushed to the brink by another major wave of the virus.

India’s official count of coronavirus cases surpassed 20 million on Tuesday, nearly doubling in the past three months, while deaths officially have passed 220,000.

Staggering as those numbers are, the true figures are believed to be far higher, the undercount an apparent reflection of the troubles in the healthcare system.

The BCCI said it would do “everything in its powers to arrange for the secure and safe passage” of all players, but for some overseas players it wasn’t going to be easy.

The postponement of the IPL throws into doubt the International Cricket Council’s T20 World Cup set to be staged in India in October and November. The UAE has already been suggested as an alternative host.

The ICC had to cancel the 2020 T20 World Cup in Australia because of the pandemic.

Rather than push the schedule back by 12 months, cricket’s international governing body decided to stage the 2021 edition in India and return to Australia for the 2022 tournament.

TRACK & FIELD

Elaine ThompsonHerah Runs Season’s Best at Florida Meet

Thompson

Jamaican double Olympic 100m champion Elaine Thompson-Herah clocked a season-best of 10.78s to win the 100m at the Pure Athletics Elite Meet in Clermont, Florida, on May 2.

Thompson-Herah’s time was the secondfastest in the world this season. Only the USA’s Sha’ Carri Richardson has run faster with her time of 10.72 at the Miramar South Florida Invitational last month.

The women’s 100 was a 1-2-3 for the Jamaicans, as Natalliah Whyte clocked 11.08 for second place with Ashanti Moore third in 11.10.

On the men’s side, Jamaica’s 2011 World champion Yohan Blake finished second in the men’s 100m in 10.02, the same time as the winner Cejhae Green of Antigua and Barbuda. Jamaica’s Julian Forte was sixth with 10.19 and Jevaughn Minzie eighth in a slow 10.52.

World Championship 400m bronze medallist Shericka Jackson and 2016 Olympic 400m hurdles finalist, Janieve Russell also secured wins at the meet.

VIEW FROM THE SIDELINES

It’s Better Late Than Never for Reggae Boyz

By R. Bronson ‘It’s better late than never’ is a proverb that aptly describes the current reality of Jamaica’s senior football program for the Reggae Boyz and the Reggae Girlz, specifically when it comes to their readiness ahead of tournaments later this year.

News coming out of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) is that announcements are imminent regarding friendly games for both teams during the upcoming FIFA Window between late May and early June. The JFF was set to announce friendly games for the Reggae Girlz ahead of the start of the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in November.

And for those who might have forgotten, the Reggae Girlz, who qualified as the first Englishspeaking Caribbean nation for the 2019 World Cup Finals in France, have not played together in many moons mainly because of the devastating effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Jamaica’s sporting landscape has been severely affected as the Government struggles to balance public health and the resumption of sporting activities. That has seen many sporting disciplines remaining under lockdown, including football, the most popular sport on the island.

The announcement of these games will be great news for head coach Hubert Busby, especially after an opportunity to get in some much-needed practice in Spain earlier this year was missed

because of the deadly impact of COVID-19 in that European country.

While the Jamaican Government fidgeted with the return of sports, most of the rivals in CONCACAF found a way to return sports to the people. And those countries would have been more advanced in their preparations ahead of November’s start of the World Cup qualifiers.

But at least Busby and his technical staff can now finally begin to chart the way forward and try to get up to speed as quickly as possible. We wish our ladies well.

For the Reggae Boyz, a source has indicated that they, too, will be engaged in a two-game friendly series during the said FIFA window. This announcement will be made at a later date, the source said. If confirmed, that will be great news for head coach Theodore Whitmore and his technical staff, who have been given the proverbial straw basket to carry water.

Over the past year, several English-based players have been linked with the Reggae Boyz, some of whom have already committed and have made their debuts, while a few others are awaiting official Jamaica documents to formalize the process. Yet, others are discussing the move with their families for a final decision to be taken.

At the end of the day, the number of interested individuals is fairly high and Whitmore and his staff would need time to fully access these players and, more importantly, get in enough match

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practice to provide an environment for players to gel, develop an understanding of each other and to build team chemistry.

Whitmore must have a solid pool of players at his disposal as the format for this qualification campaign requires no less. For some windows, the Reggae Boyz will play three matches in quick succession, and Whitmore will need to have the resources to rotate players and still maintain a high level of play.

Sadly, Whitmore lost out on the last two FIFA windows last November and March. Not that the Reggae Boyz were not engaged. But to many, these games were rendered less than ideal.

The new COVID-19 protocols and bungled travel arrangements for the team to get to Saudi Arabia meant that the Reggae Boyz were shortstaffed and undercooked for their first game against the Middle Eastern country, which they duly lost.

However, the team rebounded massively and comfortably defeated their rivals in the return game three days later, proving that if they are

properly prepared, they have the tools to compete successfully.

Last March was another opportunity to help in the preparation of the team in a game against CONCACAF rivals the US in Austria. But, again, the opportunity was wasted in a 4-1 defeat. Half of the squad travelled from Jamaica and had not played competitively in a year, while the other half included about six players who had never before suited up in Jamaican colors.

Most of the players who had played in Saudi Arabia and who had been a part of Whitmore’s teams over the past year, watched from the sidelines because they were in a long, drawn-out salary dispute with the JFF. That dispute had since been settled.

From our vantage point, we hope that these players, some of whom are high-profile English Premier League campaigners, will grab the opportunity to make the trip for these two games so that they can strut their stuff and provide headaches for Whitmore and his staff.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, MAY 6 – MAY 12, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T