National Weekly November 21, 2019

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 21 – NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46

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JAMAICA

Dollar Jamaican Currency Hits Rock Bottom

by Sheri-Kae McLeod and Garth A. Rose

Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora are experiencing a tumultuous time financially, with the Jamaican dollar hitting an all-time low exchange rate of over $142 to USD $1 in early November.

Dale V.C. Holness Makes History As Broward County's First Jamaican-American Mayor Another Jamaican-American made political history in South Florida on Tuesday when Dale V.C. Holness, Vice Mayor of Broward County and District 9 commissioner, was elected unanimously by the commission to serve as the county's new mayor for the year ending in November 2020.

Mayor Holness was sworn in by Senior Pastor of the Faith Center Ministries, Henry Fernandez. The mayor's son Daylan, held the Bible on which he swore the oath of office before a standing-room-only crowd.

The Broward County Charter stipulates that Commissioners, elected from single-member districts, vote annually in November for the position of Mayor and Vice Mayor.

Holness is the first Jamaican-American to serve as Mayor of Broward County, or any Florida

country. He was first elected to the county commission in 2010 to represent District 9, which includes a population in excess of 200,000 residents and covers over eight municipalities.

Mayor Holness told the CNW that despite not being elected by county residents as in MiamiDade, the one-year term mayorship isn't any less effective. “Holding the position of county mayor comes with far, far more responsibility than being a commissioner. Although the functioning of the Broward County Commission is very strong, the mayor is the face of the county and its administration. As mayor, it will be my responsibility to set the county's agenda for the next year and ensure the role of the county's management and administration is effective in meeting the needs of all county residents.”

Holness says one of his missions as mayor is to

– Mayor Holness

continues on B4 – Mayor Holness

continues on B4 – Dollar Woes

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

STRICTLY LEGAL

DOMINICA’S PM SEEKS FOURTH CONSECUTIVE ELECTION WIN A3

IMMIGRATION FEES TO INCREASE DRAMATICALLY A6

The massive slide began in early October, when the Jamaican dollar steadily slipped from $134.80 to $141.10 on November 5—a depreciation of $6.30 or 4.6 percent. In the days following, it went above $142 for the first time ever, causing panic among residents, small business owners, and Jamaicans in the diaspora.

Jamaican living overseas, particularly in the U.S., who are dependent on receiving payments like pensions, investment dividends, and proceeds from property rented in Jamaica, are negatively impacted when their money is worth much less in U.S. dollars.

Though a fluctuation in any currency is normal, it is understandable why Jamaicans are experiencing anxiety. The rapidly devaluing dollar means residents pay more for locally priced goods and businesses importing goods have to spend and charge their customers more.

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A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46

Literary Excellence: Winners of the St. Lucia 40th Anniversary of Independence Literary Compe on, Mar na President - 1st place (2nd from le ), and Krystal Felex - 2nd place, flanked by Heather Munns, PhD (le ), Director of Admissions, Johnson & Wales University, and Hon. Tassa Jean, Consul General of St. Lucia to Miami (right). – Contributed

Remembering Winston Blake: Monte Blake (right) and Denver “Jamusa” Silvera at Memories in the Park celebra ng Winston “Merritone” Blake in Lauderhill. – Contributed

There's A New Mayor In Town: Jamaican American Dale V.C. Holness (front right) takes his seat to make history as the first County Mayor in Florida, flanked by Vice Mayor Steve Geller (front le ) and the Board of County Commissioners. – Contributed

Show Your Colors! Maria Buddy, VP of The GrenadaAmerica Educa onal and Cultural Organiza on of Central Florida par cipa ng in the 7th Annual Interna onal Day Celebra on in Apopka, FL. Photo Credit: Mea Allman

Lady In Red: Judy Jackson, Board Member of the Jamaica Nurses Associa on of Florida flashes a winning smile at their Annual Banquet and Scholarship Awards. Photo Credit: Luke Ballen ne

African Pride: Central Floridians celebra ng Nigerian culture with the 2019 Evolu on of Nigerian Fashion at Three Masks Event Center & Art Gallery in Orlando. Photo Credit: Mea Allman

Jamaican In Davie: Vocalist Steve Higgins (right), performed at the Town of Davie's Veteran's Day Celebra on led by Mayor Judy Paul (le ). – Contributed Beloved Nurses: Joan Howard (center), President of the Jamaica Nurses' Associa on of Florida, with current members Joan James (le ) and Almira Thomas Gayle at the Annual Banquet and Scholarship Awards Ceremony in Miramar. – Photo Credit: Luke Ballen ne

The Chairs Have It: Hai an American Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairwoman Dr. Lumana Joseph (le ) and Past Chair, Jeff Lozama (right), at a recent Meet and Greet held in Miami. – Contributed

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NEWSMAKER

Roosevelt Skerrit

Dominica's Prime Minister Seeks Fourth Consecutive Election Win Among Caribbean leaders, Dominica's Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has been making news for the past 15 years—first as the world's youngest head of government, and particularly since 2017, when a hurricane devastated Dominica.

The youngest and perhaps one of the most resilient prime ministers in the region, Skerrit is seeking his fourth consecutive win in Dominica's general elections on December 6.

Skerrit, a husband and father of one, has been the prime minister and leader of the Dominica Labor Party (DLP) since 2004. He made the upcoming election announcement in

early November while urging citizens of Dominica in the country and the region to exercise their right to vote.

Skerrit said due to the divisive nature of elections, he felt campaigning should not be carried over into the new year.

"Dominica must mark the start of the third decade of the 21st century with a clear decision about who will lead the country into its future," he said, stating that his vision for the island is to become the first climate-resilient country in the world and the top tourism destination in the region.

The DLP will go against the island's main opposition, United Workers Party (UWP) headed by Opposition Leader Lennox Linton.

The nominations process for the upcoming general elections began on November 19.

Roosevelt Skerrit: A Young, Political Visionary Roosevelt Skerrit became a member of the DLP when he returned to Dominica after studying at the University of Mississippi. He was elected to parliament for the Vieille Case constituency in February 2000 and served as minister of education—establishing the Dominica State College in the early 2000s—and minister of sports and youth affairs.

On January 6, 2004, Skerrit was thrust into the position of prime minister of Dominica following the sudden death of his predecessor, Pierre Charles. Two days later, 31-year-old Skerrit was officially sworn into office and became the world's youngest head of government. After becoming prime minister, he

Skerrit was elected as the political leader of the DLP. Though Skerrit's role was initially marred by tragedy, he quickly gained popularity in Dominica as a young, charismatic and dynamic leader. In the general election in 2005, Skerrit retained leadership with an outright majority vote in the legislature, a feat that was last achieved by the DLP in 1975. During this term, he served as finance minister, minister of foreign affairs and minister of national security.

Under his leadership, the government established several policies and new infrastructure relating to education, agriculture, and education. The DLP remained the overwhelming favorites, and this was again shown at the polls in the December 2009 general elections. Skerrit led his party to win a second consecutive outright majority in the legislature, strengthening his Party's share to 18 of 21 possible seats. During his second term as prime minister, he held the portfolio as minister for information technology, finance, and foreign affairs.

As prime minister, Skerrit was dedicated to strengthening ties with China, Venezuela, and Cuba, along with establishing new relations with a number of other countries around the world.

Caribbean leaders like Grenadian Senator Arley Gill vouched for Prime Minister Skerrit as “one of the most visionary leaders in the Caribbean.” The growing popularity of Skerrit within the region was attributed to him and the DLP being re-elected for a third time in December 2014.

His most challenging term as leader, thus far, Skerrit has had to battle natural catastrophes and controversies. In 2017, Dominica was among several islands that were completely ravaged by Hurricane Maria. The hurricane left 65 people dead, damaged all 53 of the island's health facilities, left the majority of towns in ruins, and caused US$1.37 billion in losses across the island.

Following the hurricane, Skerrit and his government, regional governments and members of the international community sprung into action and began rebuilding Dominica. The education sector was the fastest to recover, as 100 percent of the island's students were displaced following the natural disaster.

The healthcare sector and tourism followed suit.

The development of many sectors such as healthcare and agriculture were aided by China, with which Dominica has developed an even better relationship under Skerrit's leadership.

Some Dominicans at home and abroad proudly hail Skerrit's leadership in their country's rebound after the hurricane but, despite their commendation, Skerrit is now forced to defend his leadership and the role of his government on December 6.

Despite Dominicans in recent weeks protesting electoral reform to ensure free and fair elections, some interpret these protests as political partisanship and also believe Skerrit's prospect for re-election is favorable, owing to his 15-year track record.

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St. Vincent PM Urges CARICOM To Speed Up Reparation Claims According to a report from the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC), St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has implored Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders to raise the issue of reparations for indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans with their European counterparts as a priority, according to the New York-based Black group, Institute for Black World 21st Century (IBW21).

Gonsalves said if those conversations do not yield tangible results, then CARICOM leaders must explore all legal and political options available to them for redress, IBW21 said on Saturday.

“We have to have a conversation with the British, with the French in the case of Haiti, the Dutch, in the

case of Suriname,” IBW21 quoted the Vincentian prime minister as saying in addressing the topic of reparations for native genocide and slavery at the Scarborough Library, Tobago.

“And if that conversation yields nothing tangible, if there is a breakdown, well then we have to use legal and political instruments on an ongoing basis,” he added at the 11th installment in a year-long lecture series hosted by the Tobago Writers' Guild and Tobago Library Services.

Gonsalves was among several Caribbean leaders who established the CARICOM Reparations Commission (CRC) in 2013, with a mandate to formulate a case for reparatory justice for the region's indigenous peoples and African descendants, IBW21 noted.

It said the CRC's 10-point plan

Gonsalves includes a formal apology for the crimes that were perpetrated against the two groups, psychological rehabilitation, illiteracy eradication, debt cancellation, and an indigenous

people's development program.

A strong proponent for reparations, Gonsalves said if the European leaders do not address the issue in any meaningful way, the

matter would be raised at the International Criminal Court within the framework of certain conventions.

The St. Vincent PM singled out the convention for the elimination of racial discrimination, “which speaks to redress for the legacy of underdevelopment in the region, occasioned by native genocide and the enslavement of Africans.”

He said CARICOM leaders could also apply political pressure or act on resolutions of the United Nations, its specialized agencies and other international bodies, and want reparation to assume greater prominence, given that five years have already gone in the United Nations' designation of 2015-2024 as the decade for people of African descent.

Hurricane Dorian Damage in The Bahamas Estimated at $3.4 Billion GREAT ABACO, The Bahamas – According to a new report published by the Inter-American Development Bank, the total cost of the impacts and effects of Hurricane Dorian on The Bahamas is $3.4 billion, with hundreds dead or missing and impact on the economy that will last for years.

The estimate comes out to over a quarter of the country's GDP—or the equivalent of the U.S. losing the combined economic outputs of California, Texas, and Florida. The magnitude of the losses requires a new development approach to achieve climate and disaster resilience in areas that range from location of settlements to redesigning infrastructure and strengthening environmental protection, according to the report,

Assessment of the Effects and Impacts of Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas.

The number of confirmed deaths caused by Hurricane Dorian is 67, with 282 persons still missing as of 18 October 2019. An additional 29,472 persons were affected by the hurricane by damages to their homes and assets.

Between Sept. 1 and 3, Hurricane Dorian struck Grand Bahama and Abaco with punishing winds and storm surges, with the island of New Providence also suffering some impact.

Inadequate construction and infrastructure located in vulnerable areas exacerbated the storm's effects.

“It is important that those directly affected by

the disaster feel the presence and solidarity of the government throughout the difficult process ahead,” said Daniela Carrera-Marquis, the representative of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). “Reconstruction efforts will last many years and will require wellcoordinated participation of public and private sectors, civil society and the international community.”

The government of The Bahamas asked the IDB to assess the impacts of Hurricane Dorian. As part of a long-standing partnership, the IDB teamed up with the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) for technical assistance with the

valuation. The taskforce was complemented by the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO).

The Damage and Loss Assessment (DaLA) team of external experts, ECLAC, IDB and PAHO staff started in early October the complex task of collecting relevant baseline and post-disaster data to assess the effects and impacts of the disaster.

The results are divided into damage, losses and additional costs.

Post-disaster the economy is expected to grow 0.9 percent. The impact of Hurricane Dorian is a percentage point of GDP, resulting in a decrease in salaries of $51.3 million and of capital income of $60.9 million.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46 –

A5

Talk UP As we prepare to vote for the new Jamaican diaspora representative, what do you think is the most pressing issue that our diaspora is currently facing and why?

Michael - The members of a Diaspora are that country's most important ambassadors and as such should be the first line of positive press and representation. I think the new representatives should understand that and make it their mantra. Too often members of the diaspora seem to settle for the maladies of social media rather than first hand info and as a result disseminate fake news and negative press about our beloved country. Investigate, clarify, and disseminate responsibly.

Horace - I think we need a seat at the table in terms of representation in the Parliament as a Senate seat, or as a separate seat as MP. We don't have any voice and both parties have been reluctant to grant us that. We contribute substantially to Jamaica, whether by remittance, medical volunteers, or by alumni. Also, with the sales that Jamaican companies like Grace and Lasco, etc., sell to the diaspora, I don't think that we get reciprocity. The people who are running, I don't see what their agenda is... How do we evaluate their performance?

Faith - As a member of the Jamaican Diaspora, the values I hold, and the link to my Jamaican cultural heritage is priceless. Issues that I believe we are facing include identifying strategies in creating a solid economic foundation and healthcare delivery system for families and friends residing in Jamaica. Another issue is identifying strategies in overcoming barriers that prevent the ability to leverage resources leadership skills, finances, and education that can be transported back to the island to aid in improving its economy.

Robert - With approximately three million Jamaicans living outside the country I think the ability to fully partake in the selection of the Government is one of the important things missing. We all help by sending money and helping institutions but we are unable to help select the government. Unlike, for example, U.S. citizens who can vote from almost anywhere in the world if they so choose.

Phil - The most critical issue that the diaspora is facing is lack of identity. Many Jamaicans in the Diaspora are unaware of it and those who are, are having challenges recognizing its importance to them and to Jamaica. This creates an environment of mistrust and misguided loyalty.

This can easily be resolved by educating the Diaspora about its definition, the role it will play in our island's economic development, and how we as a single voice can impact policies and procedures on the island.

Collin - Elected officials get overwhelming support from their countrymen, yet once elected, will quickly tell you that they are not a Jamaican Representative (which is true). However, I find it curious that Cubans, Haitians, etc. can find ways to help their biggest voting bloc. Maybe it would be a good idea if they could help to dispel the negative images that we have of law enforcement and encourage more of our people to become police officers. At the very least we would have people in authority that understand us culturally.

Tanya - The Diaspora Representative needs to be tasked with the purpose of engaging those who are uninvolved or disengaged for whatever reason, being either not sufficiently informed, or being totally unaware of the existence or purpose of the cause… Hit the campaign trail and get to know the constituents outside of your immediate circles. There are way too many people who are unfazed by the movement! Also, now that we've established what we can do for Jamaica, tell me, what can Jamaica do for us that won't cost us an arm and a leg?

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Secure The Financial Future Of Baby Boomers It wasn't that long ago that America's enlightened generation, born between 1946 and 1964, was nicknamed the "babyboom" generation. They became the movers and shakers of the American society, responsible for much of the dynamic innovations and developments that have taken place, particularly since the 1970s, and provided phenomenal history makers in various fields, including politics, business, technology, entertainment, and sports. Now, this baby-boom generation is aging rapidly, averaging age 55 to 73, with over 50 percent, mostly 65 and over, either retired or forced to retire and unable to find alternative jobs relevant to their accumulated experience.

More concerning is most boomers over 65 are earning incomes, mainly from Social Security, averaging 60 percent less than incomes they earned before they retired, placing them in a serious financial plight.

With the U.S. Census Bureau estimating that 18.7 percent of Florida's population was over age 65 in 2013, the predicament of seniors in the state is particularly concerning. In South Florida, some 18 percent of the population is over age 65, including over 22 percent in Palm Beach County.

This is also a serious problem for the region's Caribbean-American population as according to local demographic researchers, 23 percent of this community is over age 65, consisting mostly of the flow of migrants who arrived from the Caribbean in their 40s during the 1970s and 1980s.

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA) about half of Florida retirees earn some 50 percent of their income from Social Security, and for 27 percent of current retirees, Social Security represents over 90 percent of their income.

Although this is a serious predicament, there's little reference to it by political aspirants for political offices, municipal through to federal. Who is really concerned about the plight of the baby boomers – that large group of American seniors who contributed so much during their careers?

While the baby-boom generation is being rapidly succeeded by the generation born after 1964, including more liberal millennials born after 1981, there's much the baby boomers still have to

contribute to the community through their vast experience. Instead of forcing out workers over age 55 from the workforce through retirement, more emphasis should be placed on retaining senior employees as mentors or consultants to the new generation of workers. In many organizations, continuity of operations undergo several premature stops and re-starts as the new generation of employees enters and redefine these operations. This is a waste of scarce corporate/organizational resources. More could be gained in several companies by retaining some senior employees through paid mentoring or consulting programs to coach the younger incoming employees.

Countering this argument of retaining more senior employees past age 55 or even 65 is that companies need to weed out these older employees to make way for the younger generation of employees.

While this isn't a baseless counter-argument, it's nonetheless possible the production output and profit margin of several companies and organizations could be enhanced by retaining more senior employees to pass on their experience to younger employees in a structured transition phase.

However, even if more measures are taken within the private and public sectors to retain the services of people over 55 for more years, ultimately they will have to retire. Unless they are among the less than 10 percent of seniors with retirement accounts, they will have little alternative but to depend on Social Security benefits.

Astonishingly, in 2016 the Employee Benefits

Research Institute Retirement Confidence Survey indicated 42 percent of American workers surveyed had saved less than $10,000 toward retirement.

Therefore, with Social Security such a vital component to millions of Americans, including some four million Floridians and over 150,000 CaribbeanAmericans in South Florida, why aren't more voters demanding the current slate of candidates for various state and federal political offices reveal their plans for improving this crucial benefit. This isn't just a problem for seniors over age 65, but every American approaching retirement age.

Moreover, with Social Security benefits, according to the SSA, contributing some $5.2 billion to Florida's economy monthly, the improvement of this benefit isn't only vital to the livelihood of seniors, but also to Florida's general economy.

There's no contradicting that it's sound personal financial planning for Americans to prepare for their senior years. However, only relatively few people can afford to do this. Baby boomers need a security blanket. Therefore, it's imperative voters demand those seeking political office to divulge plans to ensure Social Security is strengthened. This benefit is a crucial financial lifeline for millions of aging baby boomers.

Similar to how society rewards former military personnel, it should reward people who made significant contributions to the community and are now retired seniors. They too are veterans who society has a responsibility to properly provide for.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46 –

A7

LA SECTION HAITIENNE

UN Reports Claims One-third Of Haitians Need Urgent Food Aid More than a third of Haitians are facing "severe food insecurity," sparked by price hikes, dwindling agricultural production and widespread social unrest, according to a recent report from the United Nation's World Food Program (WFP).

A study conducted in October indicated out of Haiti's 11 million inhabitants, nearly 3.7 million are in a situation of "severe food insecurity," WFP spokesman Herve Verhoosel told journalists in Geneva.

Among the Haitian population, over one million people are considered to be facing a food "emergency"—just one step away from "famine"—meaning families face extreme hardship to meet their food needs, the agency said.

Having the unfortunate reputation as the poorest country in the Americas, Haiti has been impacted over the past two months by protests,

which were triggered by fuel shortages but have turned violent and morphed into a broader campaign to remove President Jovenel Moïse.

According to UN data, at least 42 people have been killed and dozens injured during anti-government protests since midSeptember.

Verhoosel lamented that the dire security situation in Haiti had hampered WFP and other aid organizations' efforts to reach people in need for more than seven weeks.

"WFP's school feeding program has been badly affected and many deliveries have had to be postponed," he said.

"WFP has also postponed food distributions through cash-based transfers," he said, warning that "This is affecting some of the most vulnerable communities in Haiti who were counting on this assistance to provide food to their families."

Verhoosel pointed out that food insecurity had swelled by 15 percent in rural areas of the country since the previous study was conducted there nearly a year ago.

And last month's analysis had for the first time looked at urban areas in the Port-auPrince, finding that some neighborhoods of Cite Soleil in the capital were categorized as facing a food "emergency."

"Without immediate assistance, the situation is expected to deteriorate further," Verhoosel warned, pointing out that the analysis conducted last month indicated that the number of people in urgent need of food assistance would swell to 4.1 million by next March.

Haiti's Electoral Office Destroyed

By Fire On Sunday fire gutted the building housing Haiti's Departmental Electoral Office and the National Office of Identification in the northern section of the country. Officials said the Civil Protection Directorate is awaiting a complete evaluation of the fire.

Media reports said that the fire began following the arrest of an un-named political activist when opposition demonstrators, who have been calling for the removal of President Jovenel Moïse from office, took to the streets.

Moïse, who came to power in 2017, has refused to accede to the calls of the various opposition parties and has instead named a former prime minister to hold talks on the possibility of establishing a government of national unity.

Last weekend, Costa Rica became the latest country appealing for peace and calm in the French-speaking country and urged dialogue between the parties as a means going forward.

Opposition parties have vowed to prevent President Moïse from attending the activities commemorating the 216th anniversary of the Battle of Vertières on Monday.

Opposition spokesman, André Michel, said Moïse should not be allowed to visit the lace of the heroes, at Vertières.

But political observers say the statement is more symbolic than binding as Moïse had last year commemorated this anniversary and made his speech to the nation without going to Vertières.

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MDCPS Superintendent Reappointed To National Assessment Governing Board Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho has been reappointed

by U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos to serve as a member of the 7-member National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB) from October 1, 2019, to September 30, 2023. Carvalho has served on the NAGB since 2015 and is the only Board member to have been reappointed.

“The theory of action behind testing kids cannot be simply to report data; the end goal must be to improve teaching and learning,” said Carvalho. “I am deeply proud to continue being a part of this great work, and I thank Secretary DeVos for the reappointment.”

NAGB was created by Congress in 1988 as an independent, nonpartisan board to set policy for the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as The Nation's Report Card. NAEP is the largest nationally representative, continuing evaluation of the condition of education in the United States. It has served as a national yardstick of student achievement since 1969. NAEP informs the public about what American students know and can do in various subject areas and compares achievement among states, large urban districts, and various student groups.

NAEP offers to the public and to education policymakers at the national, state and local levels, objective data on student performance in nearly a dozen subjects. The information NAEP provides helps education stakeholders evaluate the progress of American education.

The 26-member nonpartisan, independent Governing Board determines the subjects and content of NAEP tests, sets the achievement levels for reporting and publicly releases the results.

Carvalho joined the Governing Board in 2015. As superintendent of MDCPS he leads the nation's fourthlargest school system. During his tenure, MDCPS has become one of the nation's highest-performing urban school systems, receiving systemwide accreditation from AdvancEd in 2014.

MIAMI-DADE

Board To Explore Later Start Times for Schools MIAMI, Florida – The Miami-Dade School Board voted to explore options for creating a bell schedule that will both consider the health needs of all students while increasing transportation access to high-demand choice programs across Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS).

Sleep is a vital, often neglected, component of every person’s overall health and well-being. However, for adolescents the medical community at large has declared a public health crisis of epidemic proportions. Adolescent sleep needs are driven by a temporary biological shift in sleep onset and wake times that occurs concurrently with the onset of puberty and ends in early adulthood. Early school start times run counter to this biological condition and can contribute substantially to adolescent sleep deprivation.

“For years, we have been hearing about the negative effects that lack of sleep poses on our students,” said Superintendent of Schools Alberto M. Carvalho. “It’s time we carefully analyze this issue and bring a solution that better aligns with the science and research regarding the natural sleep cycle of adolescents.”

As a result of board discussions and an item previously proffered by School Board Member Dr. Martin Karp and approved by the Board, an initiative to explore a new bell schedule was launched. As a result, the District had some schools participate in a pilot of later start times, and explore on a limited basis, the academic and financial feasibility of offering later start times for high school students. Initial findings yielded reports of higher energy and

alertness from participating students.

Currently, M-DCPS start times run from 7:20 a.m. for high schools, to 9:10 a.m. for middle schools. Elementary schools have two start times: 8:20 a.m. for Pre-K to first grade; and 8:35 a.m. for elementary and K-8 Centers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that middle and high schools start no earlier than 8:30 a.m.

Potential bell schedule alternatives will include options for starting all grade levels no earlier than 8 a.m. and allow for expanded transportation operations.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46 –

Question: My husband has been in the U.S. for many years since he came as a student and did not ever leave. We have been together for 4 years and I am a resident for 6 years.

I am eligible to file for my citizenship but we are afraid that when I put my husband on the immigration papers that could be bad for him. We don't want to do anything that could get him in trouble with immigration. Can I just leave him off the marriage part of the application?

Answer: You can safely file for your naturalization without any worry about your husband's legal immigration status and you must list him on the application. Failing to provide or concealing information on your Naturalization application can affect your eligibility. In Part 10, page 7, list all your husband's information, then on page 8 #7 c. if you don't know his technical status just mark “other” and list student visa or leave that part blank. At your interview, you can explain your husband's circumstances to the officer if asked.

Once you are naturalized, you can file for his residency immediately! Let me know if you have any questions.

Question: Me and my girlfriend just got married and we want to file to get my legal status. She has a good job now as a nurse and makes good money, but she had some tax issues a few years back and owes about $12,000 in back taxes. She has to make monthly payments from her bank account directly to the IRS every month to pay it back. We are worried that she can't sponsor me because she owes money to the IRS. Can you please help us with the case and tell us what we need to do so she can qualify?

Answer: In Residency cases, Immigration regulations only require that a Sponsor or Joint Sponsor provide copies of IRS Tax Returns proving that all required tax returns have been filed. There is no requirement that all taxes owed have been paid. In Naturalization cases, however, residents are required to show that not only have all required tax returns been filed, but also that either all outstanding taxes have been paid or an agreement for repayment has been reached with the IRS and all payments due under the agreement have been paid as agreed, even if a balance is still due. So in your case, your wife can still sponsor you, even though she owes money to the IRS. An immigration attorney will need to review her current paystubs and income to determine whether she meets the income guidelines, and if not, you can always use a Joint Sponsor whose income does meet the qualifications.

B1

Immigration Fees To Increase Dramatically

by Attorney Caroly Pedersen Under a new proposal issued by the Trump Administration, the USCIS aims to substantially increase immigration application fees, including Naturalization fees by more than 60 percent and Green Card fees by some 56 percent. For example, the USCIS fee to apply for U.S. Citizenship would increase from the current $725 fee to $1,170 and Residency filing fees to adjust status inside the U.S. will go from $1,760 to $2,750, allowing the USCIS to charge immigrants a separate fee of $490 for the work permit and an additional $585 for the travel permit.

Both fees are currently included in the residency application fee. Other fee increases include those for DACA applications under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program which would rise from $495 to $765.

The Department of Homeland Security published the fees increase notice in the Federal Register on November 14, 2019, leaving a short 30-day public period for comment, which is only half the normal 60 days given, ending on December 16, 2019.

The new fees could go into effect at any time after that date. Unlike most government agencies, the USCIS is a feefunded agency, which means that the costs for much of its services are funded by filing fees. According to revised calculation methods used by the acting director of USCIS Ken Cuccinelli, current fee levels would result in the agency being underfunded by approximately $1.3 billion per year.

The last USCIS fee increase was in 2016, with only modest increases, when historically, fees for processing immigration applications have drastically increased over the years. For instance, in 1985, the application fee to apply for Naturalization was only $35, compared with the new proposed fee of $1,170!

Critics say that the substantial proposed fees increases are just a way for the Trump administration to further restrict legal immigration, to get around long-standing immigration laws passed by Congress.

The administration's recent efforts to institute the “public charge rule” and health insurance requirements for immigrants have been temporarily defeated in the Federal courts, but that will likely not stop the administration from devising alternative methods to reduce legal immigration.

NATURALIZATION FEES RESIDENCY FILING GREEN CARD FEES FEES

+

56%

60%

57%

The fee increase comes just as deadlines loom for many Green Card holders to apply for Citizenship in order to vote in the 2020 Presidential election. Once the increased fees go into effect, there is no doubt that many immigrants will no longer be able to afford to file immigration applications and fewer Residents (green card holders) will become citizens, which may, in fact, be the ultimate political objective.

Likely the best gift a family member can give this holiday season is the gift of the Naturalization filing fee of $725 before the increase goes into effect!!

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR GULFSTREAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida (Board), intends to award one Construction firm for the following General Obligation Bond (GOB) project:

PROJECT NO. 01442702 GULFSTREAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BUS DROP OFF 20900 SW 97TH AVENUE CUTLER BAY, FLORIDA 33189 BIDS DUE: Sealed bids will be received by The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, for the project listed herein, until 2:00 P.M. local time, Tuesday, December 10, 2019, at 1450 N.E. Second Avenue, Room 650, Miami, Florida, following which time and place, or as soon there-after as the Board can attend to the same, the said bids will be publicly opened, read and tabulated in Conference Room 321, Miami-Dade County School Board Administration Building, by an authorized representative of the Board. Award of the contract will be made to the lowest, pre-qualified responsible and responsive bidder for the actual amount bid considering base bid and accepted alternates (if any) as listed in the bidding documents. The Board will award the contract based upon the results of the tabulations as covered by applicable laws and regulations.

Bidders desiring to participate in this solicitation must be pre-qualified by the Board prior to submitting their bid in response to this solicitation. Contact the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Office of Economic Opportunity at (305) 995-1307 for information regarding Contractors' Pre-qualification procedures.

QUESTIONS: Written questions regarding this project will be accepted. All written communications must be sent to the Project Architect/Engineer, Tony Rosabal (tony@livs.net) LIVS Associates, 2121 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Suite 610, Coral Gables, Fl 33134.

MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE (Gulfstream Elementary School): Tuesday, December 3, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. local time, at the Gulfstream Elementary School, 20900 S.W. 97th Avenue, Cutler Bay, Florida. There will be a sign-in period from 10:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Potential bidders arriving after the fifteen (15) minute sign-in period will not be allowed to participate in this solicitation. Proposals submitted by firms not represented at the Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will not be considered.

BOARD POLICIES: Cone of Silence A Cone of Silence, pursuant to Board Policy 6325, shall commence with the issuance of this Legal Advertisement and shall terminate at the time the item is presented by the Superintendent to the appropriate Board committee immediately prior to the Board meeting at which the Board will award or approve a contract, reject all bids or responses, or take any other action that ends the solicitation and review process. Any violation of this rule shall be investigated by the Board's Inspector General and shall result in the disqualification of the potential applicant from the competitive solicitation process, rejection of any recommendation for award, or the revocation of an award to the vendor as being void, rendering void any previous or prior awards. The potential vendor or vendor's representative determined to have violated this rule, shall be subject to debarment.

General questions regarding the legal advertisement will be sent to the Office of Capital Improvement Projects via email at ocip@dadeschools.net, and a copy filed with the Clerk of the School Board at celiarubio@dadeschools.net (or at 1450 NE 2nd Avenue, Room 311, Miami, Florida 33132), who shall make copies available to the public upon request Lobbyist Lobbyist requirements, pursuant to Board Policy 8150, shall be applicable to this solicitation and all proposers and lobbyists shall strictly conform to, and be governed by, the requirements set forth therein. Contact the Clerk of the School Board for additional information.

Vendor and Employment Preference Local-Vendor Preference, pursuant to Board Policy 6320.05, shall apply to this solicitation. Based on Board policy, Local Business means a vendor or business that has a valid business tax receipt, issued by a jurisdiction located in MiamiDade County, that has either (1) its headquarters, manufacturing facility, or locally-owned franchise located within the legal boundaries of Miami Dade County, for at least twelve (12) months, or (2) has an office with a street address within the boundaries of Miami-Dade County for at least twenty-four (24) months, calculated from the bid or proposal opening date. Post office boxes are not verifiable and shall not be used for the purpose of establishing said physical address. In order to be considered for local preference, vendors must provide a copy of their business tax receipt and the Local Business Affidavit of Eligibility with their proposal. Proposers who fail to submit the required documents will not be considered for Vendor Preference.

Jessica Lunsford Act The successful proposer(s) shall fully comply with the State of Florida's House Bill 1877 “Jessica Lunsford Act” (JLA); FS 1012.465, 1012.32, 1012.467 & 1012.468 and Board Policy 4121.01, Employment Standards and Fingerprinting of all Employees (also refer to Board Policy 8475).

Ethics, Conflict of Interest and Anti-Fraud Proposers responding to this solicitation shall comply with the following ethics, conflict of interest and anti-fraud policies: - Board Policy 6460, Business Code of Ethics; - Board Policy 6460, Disclosure of Employment of Former School Board Employees; - Board Policy 8700, Anti-Fraud; and all related Board policies and procedures, as applicable Contractor Debarment Procedures Pursuant to Board Policy 6320.04, Contractor Discipline Procedures, debarred contractors are excluded from conducting business with the Board as agents, representatives, partners, and associates of other contractors, subcontractors or individual sureties.

Commercial Anti-discrimination, Diversity, and Inclusion Proposers responding to this solicitation shall comply with the following anti-discrimination policies: - Board Policy 6465, Commercial Anti-discrimination, Diversity, and Inclusion (proposers shall be required to certify compliance with Board Policy 6465); - Board Policy 1362.02, 3362.02 and 4362.02, Anti-discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedure; and - all related Board policies and procedures, as applicable Protest Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed and in the manner specified in Board Policy 6320 (Purchase Approval and Competitive Bidding Process Requirements) or in accordance with FS Section 120.57(3) shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under FS Chapter 120.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The proposer acknowledges that all information contained in their RFQ Response is part of public domain as defined by the State of Florida Sunshine Law. Therefore, any information received is subject to public inspection and copying in accordance with FS 119. No action on the part of the proposer would create an obligation of confidentiality on the part of the School Board including, but not limited to, making a reference in the RFQ Response to trade secrets FS 812.081 and 815.045. It is recommended that potential proposers exclude from their response any information that, in their judgment, may be considered a trade secret.

Board policies, as amended from time to time, can be accessed and downloaded at: http://www.neola.com/miamidade-fl/.

The successful proposer(s) shall fully comply with the State of Florida's House Bill 1877 "Jessica Lunsford Act" (JLA); FS 1012.465, 1012.32, 1012.467 & 1012.468 and Board Policy 4121.01, Employment Standards and Fingerprinting of all. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed and in the manner specified in Board Policy 6320 or in accordance with §120.57(3). Fla. Stat. (2014) shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

Pre-qualified bidders may obtain a CD of the documents for construction or a full set of printed documents for construction at the bidder's expense from the office of Go Green Document Solutions, Inc. 3715 Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 on and after, November 18, 2019.

OFFICE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY Small/Micro, Minority/Women-Owned, and Veteran Business Enterprise Programs, Board Policy 6320.02 Awarded firms will be required to comply with Board Policy 6320.02 and submit a monthly report via the Online Diversity Compliance System for compliance with Small/Micro, Minority/Women and/or Veteran sub-consultant goals, subcontractor goals, local workforce information, and/or any affirmative procurement initiatives. Awarded firms will be required to submit monthly compliance reports online at: http://miamidadeschools.diversitycompliance.com. Please note that the "Small/Micro Business Enterprise Program Administrative Procedures Manual", Board-approved June 20, 2018, shall be applicable to this solicitation. Please contact the Office of Economic Opportunity at 305 995-1307 or via email at OEO@dadeschools.net for additional information.

Assistance levels, as established by the Goal Setting Committee: Gulfstream Elementary School: S/MBE Mandatory Subcontracting Goals: TBD Construction and 20% Local Work Force, within a County-wide radius.

Mandatory M/WBE Subcontracting Goals: TBD African American, Native American and Asian American firms.

The Board reserves the right to waive informalities and to reject any and all bids.

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Alberto M. Carvalho Superintendent of Schools

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46 –

Star-Studded All-Female Lineup For BOTB The year 2020 may be a history-making year for women in more ways than one. In an unprecedented move, the 14th staging of Best of the Best (BOTB) has revealed its first round of artists announcement with an all-female starstudded line-up from across the spectrum of reggae, dancehall, and soca.

On Sunday, May 24, 2020, BOTB, one of North America's largest Caribbean music festivals will welcome Billboard-charting star renowned for her showmanship, Spice; young reggae sensation, Koffee; dancehall phenomenon, Shenseea; legendary Tanya Stephens, trailblazer Lady G and soca queen Alison Hinds to the stage of the Bicentennial Park in downtown Miami.

Coined “The Year Of The Woman,” 2020 celebrates the women who have fought for women's right to vote in the United States, the latter strikes a similar sentiment for women in the music arena, who have seen this past year as a breakthrough year after fighting for their respective space in the male-dominated field.

“In all areas, women are such a force to be reckoned with, especially this past year there has been no denying the power of women in Caribbean music, just look at the reggae charts. It is unfortunate that often enough their presence isn't more visible and highlighted. In addition to playing our part in giving more female artists the stage, we at Best of the Best wanted to make a statement by revealing our first round of an all-female artists lineup,” explained the music festival publicist Ronnie Tomlinson.

Recognized and honored in 2018 with a proclamation by the city of Miami, the one-of-a-kind music festival has each year welcomed a diverse community of recordbreaking crowds from all over the world and has become the perfect getaway for music aficionados who prefer to “experience” live Caribbean music. “It is a celebration of Caribbean heritage. It has been kind of downplayed because it has been doing well for so long. Best of the Best has earned its reputation based on the fact it's in its 13th year. This particular festival also hasn't had any negative incidents and we are very proud of that,” said Retha Boone-Fye, program officer and director of the county's Black Affairs Advisory Board.

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B3

HBCUs To Showcase AfricanAmerican Fine Art At Miami Art Week As South Florida's art connoisseurs gear up for an exciting Miami Art Week / Art Basel from December 5 to 8, Hampton Art Lovers (HAL) will introduce their Point Comfort Art Fair + Show in historic Overtown at the Historic Ward Rooming House located at 249 NW 9th Street, Miami FL 33136.

The Point Comfort Art Show provides a platform for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) museums to showcase their collection of the African American masters of American fine art at the largest art exposition in North America.

The Art Fair showcases modern masters of black art and emerging contemporary artists that speak to the future of black art.

This year HAL will feature selections from the (HBCU) Spelman College Museum of Fine Art. The jointly curated exhibition will feature “Home: The Beverly Buchanan Collection” and “Barrington Watson: The Spelman Years.” The art show is sponsored by the Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency.

Point Comfort Art Fair + Show is an art exhibition inside the gallery and an art fair behind the gallery in a fully enclosed, climate-controlled tent.

The name “Point Comfort” is derived from the place in colonial Virginia where captives from the West African Kingdom of Ndongo (Angola) arrived in 1619. This marked the inception of American slavery and what we call the beginning of African American Art.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46

ON THE COVER

Dollar Woes

Mayor Holness

from A1

With a large percentage of the island's population already struggling to make basic ends meet, Jamaicans have been desperately calling on government and stakeholders to intervene.

The lack of financial education and knowledge of exchange rate flexibility contributes to the level of panic many Jamaicans are experiencing. Economic experts tend to use finance jargon the average person may not understand. Moreover, no government representative has given a clear, basic explanation of why the dollar has devalued at such a rapid rate in less than one month.

Speaking on the issue in an interview with Jamaica Gleaner, senior Central Bank (Bank of Jamaica (BOJ)) Deputy Governor John Robinson said market conditions which have caused the devaluation of the dollar are known to the bank and are likely to subside soon. “We do know one of the reasons behind the imbalance between demand and supply at this time is the presence of some extraordinary demand for portfolio purposes, which we expect to pass,” said Robinson. When pushed for further details to make the issue of devaluation clearer for many residents, Robinson declined further comment.

Adding to the confusion was BOJ Governor Richard Byles, who said Jamaicans should get used to the fluctuations.

“You may be surprised to know that foreign exchange management is not a part of our (BOJ) mandate…” Byles said recently. “The foreign exchange market is a market, meaning it has to be operated by the participants, buyers, and sellers. We have to learn to accommodate it, absorb it, find ways to make it be less volatile and be able to predict it a little more…be able to buy forward.”

Despite Byles urging Jamaicans not to panic over the rapid devaluation, the BOJ has intervened in the foreign exchange market to ease the panic. For three consecutive days this month, the BOJ sold US$40 million, US$30 million and US$20 million respectively to local

cambios and authorized foreign currency dealers to relieve “temporary demand and supply imbalances” in the market.

The bank's intervention resulted in marginal revaluation of the dollar, with the rate opening at J$139.90 to US$1 on Tuesday morning.

The BOJ is also asking major participants in the foreign exchange market to stagger large U.S. currency transactions as the bank attempts to halt the devaluation. The bank also explained there's an increase in demand for foreign currency due to the re-stocking by retailers ahead of Christmas.

Though the BOJ intervened to ease the devaluation, it's not expected such intervention will be habitual. Both the BOJ and Prime Minister Andrew Holness have made it clear Jamaicans’ focus should be on improvement in inflation.

At a recent Jamaica Labor Party (JLP) conference, Holness urged Jamaicans to focus on the inflation rate instead of the devaluing dollar.

"For 40 years we have paid attention to the exchange rate. We have valued ourselves through the U.S. dollar...but since 2017, the exchange rate has depreciated for as many days as it has appreciated, meaning that it goes down and it goes up. I want you to have faith in the economic policy," he said.

Ironically, Jamaicans in the diaspora making fixed remittances can now remit less U.S. dollars, and Jamaicans who depend on these remittances are enjoying an increase in their Jamaican value. However, unless the remittance is being stashed away in savings accounts, this joy is ruined when the recipient encounters increased prices at stores and supermarkets.

from A1

oversee a long-term 30-year plan for the county, called the 2050 (development) plan.

He wants to focus particularly on improving the lives of all Broward's residents based on the theme 'Broward County, One Community' but particularly the county's black residents. He said, “Something tangible must be done to improve the lives of black residents who make up a large percentage of the county's population. We need to improve the wages earned by the black population, many who are living from paycheck to paycheck. We need to improve housing availability, and most importantly, we need to end the unfair criminal justice system which results in black youth being disproportionally arrested and charged compared to youth of other races.

Prior to being elected as a Broward County Commissioner, Holness served as a City of Lauderhill Commissioner from 2004 to 2010, serving as Vice Mayor twice, in 2007 and 2010. He was involved in the formation of the Lauderhill Chamber of Commerce and also established the Lauderhill Business Incubator.

The hardworking commissioner is also an advocate for developing Broward County as an international trade hub. Accordingly, he was instrumental in the formation of the annual Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE). This year's fair, held last October, saw representation from 60 countries, with some 2,000 attendees—the largest and most successful fair to date.

A practicing real estate broker for over 30 years, Holness is president and CEO of All Broward Realty. He is a well-known advocate for small, minority- and women-owned businesses, fair wages for workers, improving and providing economic development opportunities for all, and homeownership.

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46 –

C1

COMMENTARY

By L. Bronson

nearest rival Guyana on 10 points, Antigua and Barbuda on nine and Aruba pointless.

These outstanding results guaranteed Jamaica a ticket to the next CONCACAF Gold Cup, where the Jamaicans have been impressive over the past three editions with back-to-back finals appearance and a semifinal berth last time out.

The team's good work has also resulted in them locking down a top-six placing in CONCACAF, which would secure them a place in the hexagonal (final six) for the FIFA World Cup Finals qualification campaign if they maintain that standing up to June 2020. From the hexagonal, the top three teams earn automatic berths to the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final, while the fourth-placed team earns a two-way inter-continental play-off.

Suddenly, a cursory glance at the football landscape in CONCACAF suggests that the Reggae Boyz stand a good chance of making a return to the "greatest show on earth", the FIFA

So the Reggae Boyz have completed their fixture in Group C of League B in the inaugural CONCACAF Nations League with a win and a draw.

The Boyz went into Monday's final game inside Catherine Hall Stadium in a perfect win record after five games, but the much changed-up starting 11 performed below par and ended 1-1 with Guyana, a team they had defeated 4-0 away.

Thus Theodore Whitmore's charges finished with 16 points, including 21 goals for and a solitary strike against, to be well clear of

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It will not be easy, not by any stretch of the imagination, but neither is it far-fetched, for Head Coach Whitmore has used the League B campaign to meticulously build a solid team from defense up.

But he needs the support of his employers, the local governing body, the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), to give the team the best possible chance of advancing to the World Cup Finals.

Firstly, the JFF must, as a matter of urgency, increase the technical staff by at least three individuals – two assistant coaches with expertise in defending and attacking, and an international scout with the expertise to access teams and help devise schemes to counteract their strengths and weaknesses.

This is now standard international practice, and Jamaica can't afford to be left behind.

The JFF's biggest challenge is to source the additional scarce financial resources needed to

fully outfit the team, but they can't let that deter them, as they need to go all out to take advantage of this rare opportunity.

In other words, they need to view this undertaking as an investment, which could be rewarded in short order with qualification to the Qatar FIFA World Cup Finals.

The current top-10 teams in CONCACAF based on the latest FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking are as follows: Mexico (11), USA (23), Jamaica (45), Costa Rica (47), Honduras (63), Canada (69), El Salvador (73), Curacao (76), Panama (80), and Haiti (88).

Mexico is always kingpins of the region; the USA is closer to Jamaica in terms of quality than it has ever been; Costa Rica is now an old team and in transition; Honduras is struggling, like Panama, but Canada is stocked with talent and could prove a potent force in this cycle; El Salvador is there or thereabouts, while Curacao and Haiti are on the improve and could prove pesky if they get into the final six.

It is our understanding that Coach Whitmore has asked for such support in the past, and even some of the more seasoned professional players have been astonished by what he has been able to accomplish with little or no technical support.

A concerted effort is being made by Whitmore to advance the senior football program, and he should, at the very least, be given the support, as this cycle represents a grand opportunity to achieve great things.

Each team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Finals in Russia earned $8 million for participating in the group phase, plus an additional $1.5 million for tournament preparations.

It is expected to be more for 2022 and that's where the JFF should be looking to reap the benefits of this proposed investment.

Timing has been good to JFF President Mike Ricketts, what with the qualification of the Women's team to the France FIFA World Cup Finals his biggest achievement.

He should take control of the reins and put all his energies into making sure Whitmore gets all the support he needs to continue building a solid senior Jamaica men's team with the ultimate goal of qualifying for Qatar in 2022 for this team if far more advanced at this stage of their preparation than the heroes of the 1998 campaign.

Bite the bullet and go for it, Mike!

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Angela Pryce

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46 –

Fraser-Pryce Among Finalists For Female Athlete Of The Year

C3

Reggae Girlz To Play Canada And Mexico In CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Matches According to the 2020 CONCACAF Women's Olympic Championship schedule which was recently released, Jamaica's Reggae Girlz have been drawn in Group B, with Canada, Mexico, and St Kitts and Nevis for the championships, which will qualify two teams from the confederation to the Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Reigning World champions USA headline Group A, which also includes Central Americans Costa Rica and Panama, as well as Haiti.

The preliminary games will be played in Edinburgh, Texas where the Reggae Girlz began their run that took them to the finals of the FIFA Women World Cup in France this year.

Jamaica will again face Canada, who they lost to 0-2 during the group stages of the qualifiers. The North Americans, along with Mexico, will prove tough for the Jamaicans who will have to beat one or both teams in order to secure one of two spots from the group to the semifinals.

Jamaica defeated Cuba, U.S. Virgin Islands, Barbados, and St Lucia in their Caribbean phase of qualifiers in September.

The schedule for Caribbean teams in the preliminary games is:

Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann FraserPryce has been named among the five finalists for the 2019 Female World Athlete of the Year.

Fraser-Pryce brought her 2019 season to a successful close by winning two gold medals at the IAAF World Athletics Championships in

Doha, Qatar in September.

She became the first woman to win the 100 meters at four World Championships when she clocked a stunning 10.71 seconds to take the gold in the women's 100-meter final.

Following the win, Fraser-Pryce paraded the track with her two-yearold son Zyon, who she said gave her “superpowers” to win her first global medal since giving birth.

Fraser-Pryce is among other exceptional female athletes such as Sifan Hassan (Netherlands ), Brigid Kosgei (Kenya), Dalilah Muhammad

(USA) and Yulimar Rojas (Venezuela).

Voting for the Female World Athlete of the Year closed on November 5.

The male and female World Athletes of the Year will be announced live on stage at the World Athletics Awards 2019 in Monaco on Saturday, November 23.

If she wins, the award will become Fraser-Pryce's second title, having won the Female Athlete of the Year award in 2013.

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Tuesday, January 28, 2020 – BBVA Stadium, Houston, TX USA vs Haiti

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Wednesday, January 29, 2020 – HEB Park, Edinburg, TX Mexico vs Jamaica Canada vs Saint Kitts and Nevis

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Friday, January 31, 2020 – BBVA Stadium, Houston, TX Haiti vs Costa Rica

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Saturday, February 1, 2020 – HEB Park, Edinburg, TX Saint Kitts and Nevis vs Mexico Jamaica vs Canada

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Monday, February 3, 2020 – BBVA Stadium, Houston, TX Panama vs Haiti

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Tuesday, February 4, 2020 – HEB Park, Edinburg, TX Jamaica vs Saint Kitts and Nevis

Two semi-final matches will be played on Friday, February 7, 2020, at the Dignity Health Sports Park, Los Angeles, California. The final match will be played at the same venue on Sunday, February 9, 2020.

DEC 13

IT BOAT DOCK

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY

| THURSDAY, NOV 21– NOV 27, 2019 | VOL. 16 NO. 46

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