Caribbean National Weekly November 11, 2021

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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 11, 2021

No More Fifth Form Graduation

TOP STORIES Miami-Dade School District Makes Masks Optional TTFA Normalisation Committee Appoints Trustee For Debt Repayment

Jamaican Gov’t Extends High School by 2 Years

By Sheri-Kae McLeod

Members of the Jamaican diaspora have responded with mixed feelings to a move by the government of Jamaica to extend mandatory formal education of students by two years, in a bid to prepare them for university and the job market.

Former St Vincent Prime Minister in Intensive Care Unit in Barbados

But while some persons in the diaspora see the move as an opportunity to create a more educated and employable society, others cautioned that it is counter-productive and will create more problems for Jamaica.

Ansell Forbes who teaches at a high school in Fort Lauderdale, said the move is just a delaying tactics because the government cannot provide enough jobs for current high school graduates.

Republican Florida Governor DeSantis Files for Reelection

continues on B4 – No Fifth Form Graduation

Port Antonio Welcomes First Cruise Ship As Industry Reopens

BSO Sheriff Says Department Lost Nine Employees to COVID-19 COVID-19 has had a staggering impact on the sheriff’s department in Broward County, Florida.

BSO Sheriff Gregory Tony, told a memorial service for nine employees who died from the virus, that well over half the department’s 5,600 employees had been exposed and 32% (1,800 employees) have contracted the disease.

“We didn’t lose one, two, three — we lost nine,” the sheriff said, noting that the first death from the virus came in April 2020.

The South Florida SunSentinel reported that black and white photos of the victims were on stage at the church in Sunrise. The victims are Deputy Shannon Bennett, 39; Nikima Thompson, 41; Wiley Huff, 73; Lt. Aldemar Rengifo Jr., 54; Pamela Ford, 54; Stephen Adams, 42; Sgt. Shane Owens, 48; Edwin Sanchez, 61; and Tasha Blackwood, 54.

Tony

Tony told their family members, friends and coworkers, that each one is greatly missed. A bell tolled nine times in their honor. The sheriff was flanked by an honor guard as American flags were placed in the hands of their relatives.

Many states and cities are requiring public employees to be vaccinated against COVID, which is now the highest cause of deaths of law enforcement officers this year, and yet infections continue to spread among police and other first responders, who are among those most hesitant to get vaccinated.

In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis has prohibited vaccine mandates. The BSO sheriff didn’t mention vaccines, but urged his people to remain vigilant, reminding the crowd of several hundred that the pandemic is not over.

UNICEF Calls for an End to Abductions in Haiti Alia Atkinson Gets Honorary Doctorate from UWI Miller, Brown Replace Barnes, Gray in Reggae Boyz Squad

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

CARIBBEAN

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

Thompson-Herah is NACAC’S Female Athlete of the Year A3

Prince Charles to Visit Barbados as Island Transits to a Republic A4

It’s Time for the Grammys to include a Dancehall Category C1

‘Trailblazer’ Dwayne Bravo to Retire from Int’l Cricket C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 11 – NOV 17, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 Honored: Reggae ar st Gramps Morgan delivers a speech while being honored at the Jamaica Consulate in New York Heritage Awards on Friday, November 5.

– Contributed

Heritage Awards: Jamaica’s Consul General for New York Alsion Wilson (center) and her husband Omar Wilson (le ) take a photo with reggae ar st, Gyp an, who was one of the awardees at the Consulate’s Heritage Awards on Friday, November 5th. – Contributed

The End of her Reign: Miss World 2019/2020, Jamaican Toni-Ann Singh (right) pays a visit to Jamaica’s Minister of Gender, Culture, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange. Toni-Ann’s reign will end in December, when a new Miss World will be crowned. – Contributed

Bidding Farewell: President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden and former President Barack Obama pause during a prayer during the funeral for former Secretary of State, Jamaican-American Colin Powell at the Washington Na onal Cathedral, in Washington, Friday, Nov. 5, 2021.

(AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Condolences: Jamaican Member of Parliament Lisa Hanna signs a Condolences Book at the U.S. Embassy in Kingston dedicated to JamaicanAmerican former Secretary of State, Colin Powell who died last month. – Contributed

Prime Ministers Meet: Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mo ley engage in a discussion while at the #COP26Glasgow conference in Scotland on October 26, 2021. – Contributed

Awarded: Jamaican Olympian Briana Williams receives her award from Jamaica’s Consul General Oliver Mair during the Jamaica Diaspora Honors held in Sunrise, Florida on Sunday, November 7th.

Williams was one of twelve honorees. – Contributed

Honoring the Fallen: Miramar Vice Mayor Yve e Colbourne a ends the City of Miramar ribbon-cu ng ceremony for a monument honoring fallen officers of the Miramar Police Department on October 27, 2021. – Contributed

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE ABOUT MARIJUANA.

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NEWSMAKER

Elaine Thompson-Herah

NACAC's Female Athlete of the Year Repeat Olympic Games sprint double champion Elaine Thompson-Herah has been named Female Athlete of the Year by the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC).

Ground in Manchester Parish, Jamaica. She did track for the Christiana High School and later Manchester High School.

After high school, she was recruited to the University of Technology, Jamaica by Paul Francis, brother of MVP Track Club head coach Stephen Francis. With MVP coaching, Thompson's times started improving steadily.

In 2014, Thompson won her first

Ryan Crouser of the US who set world records in the indoor and outdoor shot put was named the Male Athlete of the Year.

The award was expected after the Jamaican ace sprinter dominated world sprinting at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, where she won three gold medals, and then totally annihilated rivals afterwards to end the year as the undisputed queen of sprinting and the fastest woman alive.

The Jamaican successfully defended her sprint double honours by lifting the 100m in an Olympic Games record 10.61 seconds, before capturing the 200m crown in 21.53 seconds. She later won a third gold medal as a member of the 4x100m relay team.

In a release from NACAC, it started that Thompson-Herah's “2021 season will go down in history, as she produced one of the greatest runs of excellence of all time. Within the span of just over three weeks, between the end of July and late August, she won two individual gold medals at the Olympic Games in

Thompson-Herah's 2021 season will go down in history, as she produced one of the greatest runs of excellence of all time. – NACAC Statement

Thompsin-Herah

Tokyo, Japan. Her 100m win came in an Olympic record time of 10.61, while her 200m victory four days thence yielded a national record time of 21.53 seconds.

“Shortly after her double Olympic triumph, which she topped off by winning the sprint relay with Jamaica, Thompson-Herah lined up at the Prefontaine Classic, in Hayward Field, Eugene, Oregon, USA. She stamped her class with a run of 10.54 seconds, a new national record, and – like her 200m Olympic win – the fastest time in the world since Florence Griffith-Joyner's World record in 1988.”

Thompson is a native of Banana

(l-r) Elaine Thompson Herah, Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, Shericka Jackson and Brianna Williams

intercollegiate title, placed fifth in 11.26s at the national championships, and had a seasonal best of 11.17s.

Thompson made her international breakthrough in 2015. She repeated as Jamaican intercollegiate champion in March and broke 11 seconds for the first time at the UTech Classic, running a worldleading 10.92 seconds. She then ran 10.97 seconds at the Jamaica International Invitational in Kingston, defeating a field that included Blessing Okagbare and Allyson Felix.

In 2016, Thompson-Herah set a personal best in the 100m with a time of 10.70s, winning the event at the Jamaican Championships for that year's Olympic games.

In the 100m final of the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Thompson-Herah won the gold medal with a time of 10.71s, ahead of Tori Bowie and the 2012 London Olympics winner Shelly-Ann FraserPryce . In the 200m final, she won her second gold, clocking 21.78s. She was the first female Jamaican sprinter to win the 100m and 200m at one Olympic Games and the seventh overall. She also ran in the national 4 × 100 m relay team which placed second, thus leaving Rio de Janeiro with three medals.

In 2021, after wrapping her most successful track season to date, Thompson-Herah announced that she was departing from the MVP Track Club, and would no longer be coached by Stephen Francis. There were rumors that she would be coached by her husband, Derron Herah.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 11 – NOV 17, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN

Former St Vincent Prime Minister in Intensive Care Unit in Barbados Former St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Sir James Mitchell, remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados after being diagnosed with dengue and a number of other health-related conditions.

A statement issued by his family on Monday said that Sir James, who had first taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital in St Vincent, continues to receive excellent care and attention from the doctors and nurses and in particular from “Dr. Fakoory, the head of the ICU and Dr. Emtage as well as one of our very

Mitchell

own, Vincentian Dr. Wilson who is also on the ICU team”.

The statement said that his daughters, Sabrina and Louise have been with him over the past few days and his other daughters, Gretel and Gabija, are flying in soon from Toronto and London and that other family members will also visit.

“He continues to enjoy having his favorite song 'Don't Cry for me Argentina', played for him daily as well as having hymns and other favorite songs sung to him and prayers read, as well as poems including a new favorite, 'Chant for the Bequia Easter Regatta', by Richard Dey,” the statement said.

The statement said he has been “reciting with his daughters the following evening

Prince Charles to Visit Barbados as Island Transits to a Republic Britain's Prince of Wales, Prince Charles is to visit Barbados to participate in the island's transition to a Republic on November 30, according to an official statement issued by the British High Commission.

“The Prime Minister of Barbados, The Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, extended an invitation to The Prince, as future Head of the Commonwealth, to be Guest of Honour at the Republic Celebration events. His Royal Highness will also undertake a short program of engagements in Barbados,” the brief statement noted.

Prince Charles's last visit to Barbados was in March

Prince Charles

2019 during a Caribbean Tour with The Duchess of Cornwall, the statement said. It also noted that “the Royal Household will take all necessary measures to comply with COVID-19 regulations and guidance in Barbados during the course of this event”.

In October, Barbados legislators elected 72-year-old Governor-General, Dame Sandra Prunella Mason, to be the first-ever President as the island moves to end its political relationship with Britain and adopt a republican status on November 30, its Independence Day. Dame Sandra had been nominated by both Prime Minister Mottley and Opposition Leader, Bishop Joseph Atherley continues on B4 – Prince Charles

prayer: 'O Lord, support us all the day long, until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes, and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then in thy mercy grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at last.' After each reading, he says, 'Amen!'”

The statement said that the family is “grateful and humbled” for the “overwhelming outpouring of love” towards Sir James, adding “we ask that you continue to lift him up in your thoughts and prayers”.

Sir James, an agronomist, became a parliamentarian at age 35. He was Prime Minister from 1984-2000 and in 1975, he founded the now main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).

Only Vaccinated Passengers will be Allowed to Enter Guyana The Guyana government says there will be no further extension for travelers to take the second dose of a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine and that only fully vaccinated people will be allowed into the country.

“After the end of November, the mandate will be fully implemented. So, unless you're fully vaccinated, you're not going to be allowed. So, people have a chance to get themselves in compliance and once they do that, then they will be able to travel freely,” said Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony, adding that the measure goes into effect at the end of this month. continues on B4 – Guyana

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Talk Up!

TALKUP

Do you think COVID-19 Is Still A Major Health Threat in United States?

Despite the emergence of new COVID-19 variants, Americans, generally, have returned to their normal way of life. With states like Florida lifting all COVID-19 restrictions and the CDC issuing a maskless guidance for vaccinated Americans, many people seem to think that the pandemic is over, at least in America. Local leaders in South Florida like Broward County Mayor Steve Geller have been urging residents to still take precautions, but state governor Ron DeSantis is pushing for the state to return to normal. With these contradicting messages, we asked South Florida residents if they believe that COVID-19 is still a major threat to the United States. Here are the responses:

Geneveve Barnes: I believe it still is. There are a lot of people who still wanna wear masks and then there are those who are able to go without masks because they've been vaccinated.

But you don't really have any proof of who is who. And those people who continue to be reckless in their behaviors can cause the spread.

The delta virus is still out there and so we still have be cautious. That means everybody. For those of us going back into the school, that includes us too.

Maurice Spence: Hell yes. The very Republicans who are anti-everything all got the vaccine and they all have doctors taking care of them. So the people that don't want to believe its real, that's their business. They need to stop believing the Republicans and their propaganda. It’s because of this, as well as other issues, why we have been fighting a losing battle with this pandemic.

Too many of us are conspiracy theorists.

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Don Douglas: I believe its still a threat. The variants are what we need to worry more about.

And I believe until we get these things under control, we'll be at risk. This virus is capable of transforming itself into different variants. It’s unlike any virus we have ever seen before. To say that we are out of the woods is very premature given the unpredictable nature of the virus.

Janet Davis: I still think its a threat because we still have a new variant that is out now- the Delta. And we've been informed that the Delta variant is more contagious and even more severe that the others. Even persons that have been vaccinated are still stricken with this variant. And who knows to what extent this virus will evolve again. We never predicted the evolution of it to begin with. We are still learning more about the virus, and until we can fully understand its properties, then it will always be a threat to humanity.

ENROLL IN 10 MINUTES!

Dr. Beverley Mullings: I think that it's still a threat because people are dying. It's not as bad as before but its still active. We still need to have restrictions. At this point, you don't know who has it from who doesn't so its best for us to still protect ourselves, still do social distancing, still wear masks and sanitize because that's the best way to stop the spread. I also think that people should get vaccinated because that's a sense of prevention. I am vaccinated and I'm happy that I did it.

James Davis: Whether vaccinated or not, it will always be a threat. Recent reports have shown that even being fully vaccinated, does not protect you from contracting the virus, and furthermore, dying from it. There are new variants popping up all over the place and humanity is incapable of practicing the habits necessary to mitigate against the spread of Covid. People attending concerts and crowded events, not practicing social distancing, and not even wearing face masks are all contributing to the never-eneding spread.

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EDITORIAL

Is Elaine Thompson-Herah Really the best Athlete for 2021?

E

laine Thompson-Herah, Jamaica's top female sprinter, has been voted the best athlete of the year, by the North American, Central American, and the Caribbean Athletics Association – (NACAC). But does she really deserve the title of “Female Athlete of the Year.”

Thompson-Herah came into 2021 performing below her expected standards. At the World Championships in 2017 she placed fifth in the 100m and place a spot better in Doha, at the 2019 edition.

Apart from a gold medal with Jamaica's relay team at the 2017 World Relays, and a 100m gold at the Pan am games in 2019, not much happened for the double sprint gold medalist of the 2016 Rio Olympics.

But her performance was not entirely by her own efforts or design as she was plagued by injuries for an extended period.

Entering the national trials ahead of the Olympics, it was going to be either Elaine or Shelly Ann for the gold in both sprints. Or so everyone thought. On the 24th of June at Jamaica's national stadium, Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce dipped at the finish line first in the 100m, ahead of Sherika Jackson (second) and Elaine (third). This was the same result in the 200m and now the reigning double Olympic champion was no longer a favorite for a medal, much less a gold.

Unlike her previous Olympics, where she won all her races leading up to the finals, this time she placed second in her heat and the semifinal. With the third fastest time into

the finals, there was a definite chance for Elaine to be on the medal podium. But having the fastest woman alive, who was also twice an Olympic champion in the lane next to her, it was going to need something spectacular to retain her title from four year prior.

But when the clock stopped at 10.61 seconds; the world witnessed a new Olympic record, and a successful defense of the Olympic 100m title by Thompson-Herah. Her time was just 0.12 seconds off the longstanding world record.

Next up was the 200 meters.

In the finals, Elaine qualified with the fastest time of 21.66 seconds from her semis. With the 100m behind her and the confidence from her semis, she was now the favorite.

Just one more win and history would be created. The gun went off again and Elaine started out well. By the middle of the curve, she was in front of the pack. And that was how it stayed until the clock stopped at

21.53 seconds to create a new personal best.

With the win and the doubledouble Olympic prize now wrapped up, Thompson Herah set her sights on bettering her Rio Olympics glory.

She now needed to win the 4x100m relay and cement her place as one of the greatest female sprinters ever.

This time Elaine needed the help of her teammates. She would have the services of Briana Williams, Shericka Jackson, and Shelly-Ann FraserPryce. Williams gave Jamaica an incredible start and handed off to Thompson-Herah. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce was next to receive the baton, and she made sure Jamaica stayed in front. Shericka Jackson, running the anchor leg, was not going to be denied her first Olympic gold medal and took Jamaica home in a national record of 41.02 seconds.

Elaine Thompson-Herah was now crowned a triple Olympic gold medalist, and in the process established an Olympic record, a

personal best and two national records.

Overall, for 2021, Elaine participated in twenty-five races: 17 in 100m and 8 in the 200m. She won 15 100m races, all under 11 seconds, and took gold in five of her 200m events. She established three meet records in the Diamond League, one Olympic record, two national records and one Diamond League record.

She was the 2021 Diamond League champion for the 100m, a title she held in 2016 and 2017.

In 2021, Elaine ThompsonHerah became the fifth woman to end a season with the fastest times in the 100m and 200m, and the only female to achieve the feat twice. She did in 2016.

In a release, NACAC said that Elaine's 2021 season “will go down in history, as she produced one of the greatest runs of excellence of all time”.

“Beyond a shadow of a doubt, as far as athletics goes, 2021 belonged to Elaine Thompson-Herah. In uncertain and challenging times, she treated the world to superlative displays that will mark this as one of the greatest years ever in women's sprints,” NACAC said.

To say that Elaine ThompsonHerah had a spectacular 2021 is an understatement. Her performance was historical, inspiring, and monume ntal . So, Is E laine Thompson-Herah Really the best Athlete for 2021? Absolutely yes!

Congratulations Elaine, you made Jamaica and the Caribbean people very proud to call you their own.

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la section haitienne

Four Months Later....

No Conviction in President Moise Assassination Four months after the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, authorities in Haiti say they are working towards completing the investigation.

Moise was shot several times and killed when armed gunmen attacked his private residence overlooking the capital on July 7. His wife, Martine Moïse, survived the attack and had to be flown to the United States for medical treatment.

“Four months after the assassination of President Jovenel, the sponsors and main executors are still running uneasily on the streets,” she said.

Foreign Minister, Claude Joseph, said that four months later, the expectations of the people are intact, complete the investigation, identify and punish the culprits.

“I will continue my efforts with friendly countries to advance judicial cooperation. It is a moral responsibility that is part of this collective effort for Justice for Jovenel,” he added.

But the former minister of justice, Rockefeller Vincent said “four months later, warrants issued against the President's main assassins remain ineffective.

“This is unacceptable. Haitian justice and the government have this responsibility before history. This investigation, against all odds, must be successful,” said Vincent, who was fired

by Prime Minister Ariel henry earlier this year.

Former senior legislator, Gary Bodeau said that without justice, there

is no democracy in the Frenchspeaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country.

“It has been four months since the murder of President Jovenel Moïse,” Bodeau urging the authorities to ensure that Haitians never lose the battle for justice.

Last month, a key suspect in the assassination of Moïse was arrested in Jamaica, with law enforcement authorities there saying that Mario Palacios Palacios, a former Colombian military officer, was arrested in Kingston after surrendering.

“The Jamaica Constabulary Force(JCF) can confirm that an individual alleging to be a Colombian national has been arrested in Jamaica on immigration breaches,” the JCF said in a statement. “He has subsequently become the subject of an INTERPOL Red Notice as of today,

October 21, 2021. We are working with our international partners in line with our established treaties and protocols.”

Haitian authorities have arrested 44 people in connection with the crime, including 18 Colombians and three Haitian Americans who lived in South Florida. Police have said that former Colombian soldiers made up the hit squad that stormed Moïse's private residence in the middle of the night on July 7.

Among those who remain on the run are a former Haitian government official in the anti-corruption unit, Joseph Felix Badio; a former diplomat, Ashkard Pierre; and Rodolphe Jaar, a convicted drug trafficker.

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UNICEF Calls for an End to Abductions The United Nations Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) is calling for an end to the abductions of women and children in Haiti, saying that for the first eight months of this year, kidnappings have already exceeded last year's total.

“Nowhere is a safe place for children in Haiti,” said Jean Gough, UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Whether it's on their way to school, at home or even at church, girls and boys are at risk of being kidnapped anywhere, at any time of the day or night. It's every parent's worst nightmare.”

Figures released by UNICEF based on official sources, indicate show that 71 women and 30 children have been kidnapped in the first eight months of this year, compared to 59 women and 37 children for the entire 2020. Most kidnappings take place in the capital.

“Criminal gangs use children as bargaining chips and earn money from parents' love for their children,” Gough said, adding it is odious. “These acts of violence have a lasting impact on kidnapped parents and children, captivity always causes trauma as they often witness or suffer humiliation, threats and in some cases violence.”

To improve incident reporting and assistance to children in need, including kidnapped children, UNICEF says it is supporting the national child protection agency “Institut du Bien-être Social et de Recherches”, in reactivating its free hotline to be used with a telephone hotline of the Brigade for the Protection of Minors.

UNICEF said it was urging all relevant actors to refrain from targeting children and women and calls on the government to take action to combat gang violence against children.

Meanwhile, the fate of 17 United States and Canadian missionaries, including, remains unclear after their abductors demanded US$17 million for their release or that they would be killed.

The leader of the 400 Mawozo gang that police say is holding the missionary group released a video late last month outlining the demands for their release. “I swear by thunder that if I don't get what I'm asking for, I will put a bullet in the heads of these Americans,” said Wilson Joseph who was dressed in a blue suit, carrying a blue hat and wearing a large cross around his neck.

In addition to kidnappings, the criminal gangs are also blamed for blocking gas distribution terminals and hijacking supply trucks, which officials say has led to a shortage of fuel.

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 11 – NOV 17, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

COMMUNITY

An Evening with Olympian Shelly Ann-Fraser-Pryce in Miramar Jamaican Olympian Shelly-Ann FraserPryce will be a special guest in the City of Miramar, on Tuesday November 16, where Commissioner Alexandra Davis will host “An Evening with an Olympian” to raise money for Fraser-Pryce's Pocket Rocket Foundation.

The event will feature music by King Banton, Saxophonist Joseph Tapper, and hors d'oeuvres. A Silent Auction will be taking place with personal items from AMB Fraser Pryce such as; A pair of Nike Spike, A framed photo of her, her unicorn wig from the Doha World Championship, a Nike Jersey from this year's Diamond League Circuit.

The Pocket Rocket Foundation was created

by Fraser-Pryce out of a need to assist high school student-athletes. Her personal experience of receiving financial assistance that afforded her a high school education while she

Fraser Pryce

competed, provided the foundation she needed to pursue a first degree in child and adolescent development to become the first person in her family to complete a degree program.

In May 2013, The Pocket Rocket Foundation had its official launch at The Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica.

In September of that year, the first 7 student-athletes were awarded full academic scholarships to cover their high school expenses. Eight years later, the Foundation continues to create lasting change.

To date, a total of 50 high school studentathletes (25 boys and 25 girls) from 20 different high schools located islandwide, competing across 11 different sporting disciplines have benefited from full academic scholarships.

Since 2014, a total of 16 scholarship recipients have successfully graduated from

high school. The remaining 15 student-athletes are currently enrolled on full scholarships courtesy of the Foundation.

Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis stated, “I believe it is fitting and proper that the City of Miramar extend official recognition to Ambassador Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce CD's dedication and commitment to encourage student-athletes towards excellence in both academic and sporting endeavors.”

Miramar residents and other members of the public are also invited to attend with Suggested donation to Pocket Rocket Foundation of $100 would be appreciated. To donate, go to www.miramarfl.gov/donate .

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Florida Plans to Sue Biden Administration Over Vaccine Mandate Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the state will be filing a lawsuit against the Biden administration over its COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

The Government released details regarding the mandate last week, stating that Americans who work at companies with 100 or more employees will need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 4th or get tested for the virus weekly.

The new requirements will apply to about

84 million workers. People who work in nursing homes, hospitals and other facilities that receive money from Medicare and Medicaid will not have an option for testing and will need to be vaccinated.

Governor DeSantis said Florida will be following Georgia and Alabama, as well as other plaintiffs with a lawsuit against the Biden administration. He said people should be able to make their own decisions regarding healthcare.

“This is not consistent with a government of limited and enumerated powers,” the Republican governor said. “There is no general police power, there is no power to mandate on the American people from the federal government.”

“Individuals should make informed choices

about their own healthcare,” he added. “They shouldn't be coerced into getting the jab.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said companies that fail to comply could face penalties of nearly $14,000

per violation. Workers will be able to ask for exemptions on medical or religious grounds.

OSHA will require businesses to provide paid time off for employees to get vaccines and sick leave to recover from side effects that prevent them from working. The requirements for masks and paid time off for shots will take effect Dec. 5.

Because vaccines are free, OSHA said, companies do not have to provide or pay for tests.

The White House also said that it would push back its federal contractor vaccine mandate deadline from Dec. 8 to Jan. 4.

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COMMUNITY

All-Star Line-up For Veterans For Veterans As the countdown hits zero, a starstudded lineup including Bounty Killer, Tarrus Riley, Agent Sasco, Tessanne Chin, Jermaine Edwards and Dean Fraser will come together for the Veterans for Veterans concert on Saturday November 13. The virtual event will be the main donation drive for the National Poppy Appeal 2021. It will raise funds for the care of indigent ex-soldiers.

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Tarrus Riley

“This event is the Grand Finale for our 2021 Poppy Appeal month which was launched on October 3” explained Lieutenant Colonel Warrenton Dixon, chairman of the National Poppy Appeal and Executive Tessanne Chin Producer of the event. “Our goal this year is to raise $15 million, and we have been pulling out all the stops with our Poppy Patrols and the Step for Vets. However, we are still below the target and so this event will be used not only to entertain, but to educate and to push for donations”.

This one-of-a-kind event promises to be more than just concert. “It will be a top-class production that will offer first class entertainment while revealing a unique Agent Sasco perspective of the army core. With the performances set within a backdrop of some of the army's exclusive locations, we will showcase the grandeur, the pageantry and the style of the JDF, along with the star powered musical line up that will be offered”, remarked Martin Lewis of Team Solutions, producers of the event.

“Special features interwoven with the musical performances will make for a unique virtual experience which we are sure our viewers will enjoy”.

This year will be the second virtual staging of the event which was taken online in 2020 as a result of COVID 19. “We did it as a necessity last year, commented Colonel Dixon, “however, the experience taught us that a virtual presentation was actually beneficial to the cause as it allowed us to reach a much wider audience than we had in the past.

So, this year, it was a no-brainer to do the virtual show.

We have now demolished our boundaries and are reaching out to our Jamaican brothers and sisters, and our friends all across the globe, to firstly share in our collective duty to remember those who have sacrificed their lives and wellness for our freedom, and secondly, to donate to the cause so that we can help the ones in need. There are chapters of the Jamaican ex-soldiers in various countries and this cause is also important to them. In fact, Jamaica Ex-Soldiers Association UK joined us this year to stage a gospel concert dubbed “Blessed for Vets”, in Birmingham, England and a special highlight feature of this show will also be included in our Vets for Vets”.

Veterans for Veterans will be aired free on YouTube/poppyappealjamaica, Caribtix.com, One Spot media and TVJ. The National Poppy Appeal is launched each year on the first Sunday in October and goes until November 11, Veterans' or Remembrance Day, which is used to pay tribute to war veterans who sacrificed their lives in honour of their country. While wearing of the poppies will officially end on November 11, also called Poppy Day, the fund-raising efforts will continue, and potential donors are encouraged not only to give generously during the Veterans for Veterans event, but also to continue to do so throughout the year.

Several companies have come on board to sponsor the concert including the Jamaica National Group, the JDF Credit Union, The Tourism Enhancement Fund, The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Iprint Digital, Irie-Jam and Bridge 99 FM, TVJ, One Spot Media, The Gleaner Company, Martin Lewis Productions, The Jamaica Observer, Phase 3, Touchstone Productions, Mayberry, and Supreme Ventures. There are also several companies who have donated and supported the appeal by buying poppies for their staff.

Others are encouraged to do so.

For more information follow @lestweforgetjm on Instagram and Facebook as well as subscribe to YouTube @poppyappealjamaica

Twelve People honored at Jamaica Diaspora Honours 2021.

Twelve outstanding Jamaicans in various fields were honored by Jamaica’s Consul General Oliver Mair at Jamaica Diaspora Honours 2021 on Sunday, November 7.

The honorees, who all hail from Southern USA, were awarded at a Virtual ceremony.

Their names will be inscribed on the Honour Roll of Jamaicans in the Southern USA. Consul General Mair in congratulating the awardees said that “these persons have served with exception in the respective categories and have served the community selflessly without seeking recognition” he emphasized.

The Luminary Honours were awarded for several areas including Public Service to Andrew Adams of the Jamaica Foundation of Houston (JFH); Faith and Religious Leadership to Pastor Robert Stewart, Senior Pastor Pentecostal Tabernacle, Miami; Cultural Arts (Media, Entertainment, Culture) to Ms. Audrey Anderson, Board member of the Louise Bennett Coverley Heritage Council (LBCHC) and Xavier Murphy, Media Consultant and Founder of Jamaicans.com; Business Leadership to Patrick Cha Fong, Principal of Kingston Miami Trading; Health Care to Dr. Yvonne Smith, AtlantaMontego Bay Sister Cities Committee; Youth Leadership to Miss Briana Nichole Williams, Jamaican Olympian athlete; Education to Pauline Jolly, PhD. Founder and Past President of Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization; Philanthropy/Social Services to Bruce Palmer, President of Jamaica United Relief Organization (JURA); and Special Community Honour to Ms. Andrea Dixon, Registered Nurse who is being recognized as an outstanding humanitarian and philanthropist.

The Jamaica Diaspora Honours also presented two Community Awards to the Louise Bennett Coverley Heritage Council (LBCHC) for outstanding contribution to Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage in the Diaspora; and to Grace Kennedy (USA) for their contribution as a corporate/community partner.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 11 – NOV 17, 2021 –

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ENTERTAINMENT

Jerk Fete, an exquisite offering of food, music and wow!

According to the organizers of the inaugural Jerk Fete the event is shaping up to bring all the excitement the annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival normally brings.

DYNAMITE

Sean Paul Debuts New Video Featuring Sia The multi-awardwinning dancehall artist Sean Paul recently released visuals for his latest pop banger “Dynamite” featuring Sia. Directed by Storm Saulter, the music video matches the energetic single with its lively choreography and Sci-Fi setting.

The fun & futuristic video gives viewers a peek into the new tech fueled & chrome filled world of Kingston, Jamaica in the future. The video sees dancers decked out in elaborate colorful costumes as they are swayed by the infectious rhythm of “Dynamite” while competing in an epic dance battle.

Of the track, Sean shared, “The concept of the video is futuristic, reflecting the sound of the song as well as how I see the longevity of my career. We also showcased a futuristic view of Jamaica with the style of dressing, flying cars, and big buildings. Big up to Storm Saulter who executed the vision and his work definitely highlight the great talent we have here in Jamaica.”

Parts of the music video were also shot in Jamaica's Ward Theatre, which has been under construction since 2017.

In a recent tweet, the Mayor of Kingston, Delroy Williams hailed Sean Paul for showcasing the national theatre on the international scene.

“As many will see some of our repairs including the new seats are displayed,” Williams wrote in part.

“Looking forward to the next phase and the day when many more such

activities will take place inside the #wardtheatre. #stillbelieviing,” Mayor Williams said via his Twitter account.

The Ward Theatre's restoration is part of an ongoing project by the Jamaican government to redevelop and restore Downtown, Kingston.

The Ward Theatre is the largest theatre of its kind in the Englishspeaking Caribbean. It was presented as a gift to the city of Kingston in 1912

by Colonel Charles Ward, then Custos of Kingston. It occupies a site in Downtown Kingston, which has been in continuous use as a theatre since the 1770s.

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Having canceled the 2021 staging of the jerk festival due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the organizers have modified plans and developed an alternative event Jerk Fete slated for Sunday, November 14th, 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, at Vizcaya Park in Miramar.

The event which is scheduled to be in a more in a smaller controlled setting is gearing up to be a success; if ticket sales are any indication as they are going well.

According to Eddie Edwards one of the promoters, Jerk Fete is an exquisite experience of food, music, and wow, and will thrill many festival fans who were yearning for a taste of the Jerk Festival vibe this year.

Jerk Fete is an innovative concept which fills a void in the Caribbean entertainment landscape, appealing to an audience of influencers and professionals who are selective in their entertainment endeavors.

The Jerk Fete experience will deliver an array of Jerk delicacies to tantalize every tastebud, a varied selection of music to satisfy all souls, custom cocktails and drink concoctions, designer decorated setting, luxury cabanas for the elite consumer and reserved tables for personal service.

“Jerk Fete is an amazing party, where patrons get a chance to socialize with friends, enjoy a menu of selected Jerk cuisine and dance to a variety of music presented by legendary DJs at the top of their game,” stated Edwards, CEO of Jamaican Jerk Festival USA, Inc. “We want patrons to come and have an unforgettable experience, from the minute they enter the venue to the time they leave, saying 'wow!' with a big smile.”

The selection of DJs for the inaugural Jerk Fete is loaded featuring Steelie Bashment from New York, Colin Hines and Richie D from Jamaica, along with South Florida's own DJ Radcliffe. One of the features of Jerk Fete will be the DJs Dutch Pot Clash, where two DJs will don aprons and compete to prepare a dish in record time to impress the judges. This is a culinary competition like no other.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 11 – NOV 17, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CONTINUATIONS

No Fih Form Graduation “Spending another two years in school without the right programs and infrastructure to make them employable at 17 or 18 is just ridiculous,” he said.

Sonia Ferguson whose two sons attend school in Kingston and is due to join her in Miami in another year, laments that it will be difficult to get them into college here, without a high school diploma when they leave in 5th form.

“Both my sons are in 10th grade and the plan was to get them here in a year's time so they can start college. Now that will be difficult if they are not going to come with the required documents.”

Sunrise resident, Jermaine Guthrie is of the view however, that the move will benefit Jamaica in the long run. “If Jamaica is to become competitive on the global stage, we must have a more literate and educated society. This move I believe, will strengthen the educational fundamentals and make our future better and brighter,” he said.

The Ministry of Education will officially launch its seven-year high-school program next year.

On Monday, as some Jamaican students returned to school after over one year of closure, the Ministry of Education released details regarding its Sixth Form Pathway Program. The program requires students who complete grade 11 to either attend sixth form for two years, attend a trade school for two years or go straight

Williams

to university. Students, even when they have completed the 11th grade and attained Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects, will not get a school-leaving certificate unless they complete the seven years of “secondary school”.

According to the island's Minister of Education, Fayval Williams, the program is to better prepare Jamaican children for the working world.

“Students will be able to secure multiple qualifications within the two years and acquire

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college credits that will provide a head start in their tertiary studies,” she said. “For those who choose not to attend a tertiary institution, the certification they receive at the end of the Sixth Form Pathways Program will prepare them to enter various fields of work or receive further general or technical training.”

But the program has also received some backlash from educators who believe that Jamaica's education sector is not yet at a place where the ministry can implement such a program.

Linvern Wright, President of the Jamaica Association of Principals of Secondary Schools, has some reservations regarding institutions being adequately equipped to provide the technical education required.

"We know that a lot of the equipment in schools is really not up-to-date, run down," he pointed out, suggesting that this was especially the case for schools that serve "the most vulnerable".

"We are saying, the way it is being done, you're really going to end up where you started," Mr. Wright warned. He also believes more resources and adequate funding are needed for the program to work.

Another educator, Mr. Jason Murray, a teacher at the Inswood High School in St Catherine, said that both teachers and students are still trying to play catch-up and make up for

the learning loss suffered due to COVID-19.

“I understand and fully support the essence of the program, but it's bad timing. Some students are just getting back into the classroom after basically one and a half year of being shut out. I don't think the ministry fully grasps how much work it will take to make up for the loss over the last two years,” he told Caribbean National Weekly.

Murray says the government should place their focus on ensuring that students are even able to pass their exams this year, before introducing two additional years of formal education.

Another parent, Terrence speaking with CNW said the plan was for his child to get a job after he graduated fifth form. “I understand why its good. It makes sense, but not every parent has the money. Sixth form was optional, university was optional, trade school was optional. Now they are saying, you have to; who gonna pay for it?”

For her part, Minister Williams has defended the program, saying Jamaicans will have to accept the notion of mandatory seven-year high school as “something our law called on us to do some 57 years ago.”

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Guyana

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In the updated COVID-19 guidelines for November, only fully vaccinated persons will be allowed to enter Guyana. But there have been objections from sections of society, requesting time to be fully vaxxed.

Dr. Anthony said the government realized that many Guyanese would be barred from returning to the country and as such lifted the policy until the end of November.

“The challenge when we did that is that we discovered very quickly that there are some Guyanese who only took one of the doses and some of them took the dose and they have traveled abroad and to get back into the country would have caused that difficulty.

“So, we have given them a limited period by which time, if they only have one dose, they have up to the end of November that they'll be allowed to return to Guyana,” Dr. Anthony said, adding this will further protect Guyana from imported cases.

He said that as there are no vaccination sites at the two international airports, passengers desirous of being vaccinated can visit any of the 100 vaccination sites countrywide.

He is urging the population to be vaccinated, as it will slow down the infection and death rates.

Prince Charles from A4

to replace Queen Elizabeth II as Barbados' Head of State.

A former British colony that gained independence in 1966, Barbados with a population of just under 300,000 had long maintained ties with the British monarchy. But calls for full sovereignty and homegrown leadership have risen in recent years.

Dame Sandra will be sworn in on the country's 55th anniversary of independence from Britain and Prime Minister called the election of a president “a seminal moment” in the country's journey.

“We have just elected from among us a woman who is uniquely and passionately Barbadian, does not pretend to be anything else (and) reflects the values of who we are,” Mottley said following the vote.

The government said that the change would bring to an end a British head of state of Barbados ever since English settlers landed on the island in 1625.

Prime Minister Mottley maintained that the time had come for the transition as Barbados needed to be in complete control of all of its affairs. She dismissed any notion that Barbados would change its name.

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 11 – NOV 17, 2021 –

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ENTERTAINMENT

It's Time For The Grammys To Include A Dancehall Category

By Ramona Samuels

Dancehall music stands as a very distinct and popular form of Jamaican music that started in the 1970s. Since its creation, dancehall has completely taken on an identity of its own with unabashed lyrical expressions, style, community, and culture. Its impact on other popular globally respected genres, continues to grow as music diversifies and expand.

With these facts, some music insiders and practitioners of the genre, believe that it's time for the GRAMMY's to officially include dancehall music as a single category, giving the craft the identity it deserves.

Popular Irish television producer, Mark Kenny of Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall, recently agreed that dancehall should indeed be added as a category. “Yes, it should be added, dancehall is such an influential genre.”

Iconic reggae-dancehall star Eek-A-Mouse shares the sentiment. “Yes, the GRAMMYs not should, but must add a dancehall category. He who comes from nowhere, makes himself exist.

The rock category came from nowhere, that's how it is, a replication of the process in a childlike spirit. Dancehall should be, a must in the GRAMMY category. They've been keeping down dancehall all the time,” he said.

Sixty-three years ago, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences first

presented the GRAMMY awards, known back then as the Gramophone Awards. At that time, there were only twenty-eight categories.

Since then, the Recording Academy gave several variances in their categories, some have been made redundant, and new ones are being introduced as music's creative influences broadens and evolve. To date, the categories total eighty-four and awards are presented to several popular genres including Rap which made its way thirty years after the first award showcase, Rock came in twenty years later, Pop,

Country, and R&B. Other genres awarded at the GRAMMY's are Children's, Spoken Word, Gospel (Contemporary Christian), New Age, Classical, Jazz, Composing, Latin, Dance (Electronic), World Music, Comedy, Contemporary Instrumental, Alternative, Musical Theatre, American Roots, and Reggae.

It was twenty-six years after the first Gramophone awards that reggae music was added as a category. Though the genre's win has never been televised, the inclusion of the brand

has given practitioners the global opportunity to shine and succeed in other markets.

When Black Uhuru made history in 1985 as the first Jamaicans to win a GRAMMY award, the already very appealing art form's impact catapulted the culture beyond borders imaginable at that time. The complete set of nominees in that year for Best Reggae Recording were Jimmy Cliff's Reggae Nights, Black Uhuru's Anthem, Steel Pulse's Steppin' Out, Peter Tosh's Captured Live, and Yellowman's King Yellowman.

Dancehall Stars who have won the prestigious award in the reggae category are: Shabba Ranks in 1992 and 1993 for his albums As Raw As Ever and Xtra Naked, Shaggy in 1996 with Boombastic, Beenie Man in 2002 with his album Art and Life, Sean Paul in 2004 with Dutty Rock, Damian Marley in 2002 with Half Way Tree, and again in 2006 with Welcome to Jamrock.

With consideration to the lyrical content of reggae music and the disconnect between dancehall, the latter's own category will not only propel it as its own brand internationally but also help to note the importance of the contrast.

In January 2021, GRAMMY.com launched its new 'Genre Pages' to expand music and artist discoveries. Music lovers can look forward to reading about and exploring the genres celebrated each year at the GRAMMY awards and learn about new music being created each day by the talented artists, engineers, writers, composers and producers who make music possible.

According to grammy.com, “As music continues to progress and fans expand the ways they consume music and culture, GRAMMY.com remains your go-to destination for new music discovery, Recording Academy and industry updates and engaging, music-first content.”

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SPORTS

CRICKET

'Trailblazer' Dwayne Bravo Retires From Int’l Cricket Veteran all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has been hailed as a “trailblazer” and one of the finest players of his era, after bringing his international career to a close on Saturday.

The 38-year-old announced last Thursday he would retire following West Indies' final group match of the Twenty20 World Cup against Australia and came in for widespread praise in the wake of the outing which saw the Caribbean side slump to a heavy eight-wicket loss.

“Dwayne Bravo has been an outstanding cricketer of his generation, who has been popular with fans the world over. He was successful in all formats and is part of an elite club of two-time World champions,” said Geoff Allardice, the acting chief executive of cricket's world governing body, the International Cricket Council.

“His versatility and the experience of playing the world over have helped him gain an immense understanding of the game and I hope he will be able to find ways to stay involved in cricket.

“On behalf of the ICC, I wish him all the best for the future.”

Cricket West Indies also praised Bravo's contribution to the game, pointing out the Trinidadian had evolved to become “one of the world's leading white-ball death bowlers and a valuable mentor for the next generation of West Indies players.”

President Ricky Skerritt, under whose tenure Bravo returned in 2019 following a 15month retirement stint, said the former oneday skipper had also “added value to all levels of West Indies cricket.”

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Bravo

“On behalf of all West Indies cricket fans, I salute Dwayne Bravo on completing his illustrious international career,” Skerritt said.

“He performed admirably in all three formats and added value to all levels of West Indies cricket. He was a trailblazer in T20 cricket and set the standard for how the newest format of the game should be played.

“Dwayne's talent, commitment, and dynamism thrilled fans of all ages and he was a star attraction for a generation of young cricket lovers.

“He excelled and demonstrated his immense prowess with both bat and ball and created a legacy of top-quality performances.

He will always be a true West Indian champion and we thank you for that.”

Dwayne Bravo was unable to have any

impact on the West Indies' fortunes during the ongoing T20 World Cup, the nowdeposed champions losing four of their five games to finish fifth of six teams in Group 1 on two points.

He took only two wickets from 16 overs in the tournament at an economy rate of 8-½ per over and managed only 26 runs from five innings.

Captain Kieron Pollard, a close friend of Bravo's, said the player's immense knowledge remained valuable to West Indies cricket.

“What Bravo has done for West Indies cricket and sort of bringing all-rounders in the Caribbean when he started is paramount,” Pollard pointed out.

“He spoke about the discipline that was instilled in him and he was able to bring that discipline and enthusiasm and courage to each and every team he represented. We are fortunate and lucky to have an individual like him amongst us for the last 18 years or so.

“For me personally, I wish him all the best. Obviously, we'll still be seeing him on the cricketing circuit and I'm sure he has a passion to give back to West Indies Cricket, especially.

“Long may his career continue outside of international cricket, and thank you for being a great role model and mentor for us in the Caribbean.

“I'm sure there are youngsters in the Caribbean still looking up to you and want to tap into the brain and knowledge that you have over these past 18 years.”

Bravo finished with 78 wickets from 91 T20 Internationals, while taking 553 wickets and scoring 6,627 runs from 512 matches overall.

Jamaica to Host CARIFTA Games in April 2022

By Sheri-Kae McLeod Jamaica will be the host country for the 49th CARIFTA Games, scheduled to take place from April 16 to 18, 2022.

The announcement was made by the President of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA), Garth Gayle, during the NACAC Special Congress on November 6th.

Gayle said his organization received official word from the Minister of Sport, Olivia Grange, that the government of Jamaica gave its support to hosting the Games over the Easter Weekend in 2022. This will be the eighth time that Jamaica has hosted CARIFTA. Minister Grange is of the view that hosting the Carifta Games would be an ideal fit with the government's plans for a year-long celebration of the country's Diamond Jubilee as an independent nation. There is no word yet on whether or not spectators will be allowed to attend the event.

The meet normally runs over three days during the Easter period and includes over 150 separate events. The Games has two age categories for boys and girls: under-17 and under-20, the latter in line with the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) guidelines for junior athletes. The meet is run entirely under IAAF rules.

The 2021 staging of the CARIFTA Games, which would have taken place in Bermuda, was canceled due to COVID-19. The Games, first held in 1972, were set to be staged in Bermuda for the fifth time.

Jamaica has won more medals at the Carifta Games than any other member federation.

During the 2004 renewal, Jamaican Usain Bolt signaled his future greatness at just 17, when he became the first junior athlete to break the 20-second mark over 200 metres, crossing the winning line in 19.3 seconds.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 11 – NOV 17, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T