Caribbean National Weekly October 14, 2021

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THURSDAY OCTOBER 14, 2021

Buju Banton's Daughter Says He Tried to Kill Her KHALIA

HALL

Miss Jamaica World 2021

From left: First runner-up Dominique Shorter, Miss Jamaica World 2021 Khalia Hall and second runner-up Melessa Vassell

On Saturday, October 9th, a new Jamaican queen was crowned. Of the bevy of beauties vying for the prestigious title and a chance to represent Jamaica, 25-year-old mechanical engineering graduate Khalia Hall, stunned the judges and walked away with the 2021 Miss Jamaica World crown.

continues on B4 – Miss Jamaica

Buju Banton with daughter Abihail

It would be a classic case of hesaid, she-said, if only the he in this case, Buju Banton addressed the allegations of abuse made against him by his own daughter.

“

How can I, my daddy’s ‘princess’ be missing and he is sooo nonchalant about it? Not one post, come on – Myrie

“

Hall — who wore the sash Miss General Food Supermarket, beat 14 other finalists at the pageant's grand coronation at the Courtleigh Auditorium in New Kingston. Dominique Shorter and Melessa Vassell were first runner-up and second runner-up, respectively.

The new queen, who was also the Fast Track Top Model competition winner, was crowned by Miss World 1976 Cindy Breakspeare. Hall will replace Miss World 2019 Toni-Ann Singh, the fourth Jamaican to win the Miss World title. Singh is also the longest-reigning Miss World owing to the coronavirus pandemic and the postponement of the 2020 competition.

Khalia Hall hails from the parish of St Ann, but attend the Campion College High School in Kingston. She was born to a Jamaican mother and British father.

Hall graduated with a masters in mechanical engineering from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. She has also worked as

Alleges The Deejay is Abusive To All His Children

Hall

Hall will now go on to represent Jamaica in the Miss World grand coronation at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Jose Miguel Agrelot in San Juan on December 16.

The allegations came to the fore earlier this week, when Abihail Myrie, the youngest girl of Buju Banton's 17 children took to social media, claiming that her famous father tried to kill her. In a series of Instagram posts, now deleted, the 21-year-old said that the deejay has been physically abusive towards her, and his other children.

One of the posts showed a picture of someone's neck, with the continues on B4 – Abihail Myrie

TOP STORIES Buju Banton’s Daughter Rejects Claims that She is Missing Grenada Health Authorities Worried about the Decline in Vaccination Rate Best of the Best Caribbean Concert was Just That!

Koffee Missed Miami show due to Alleged COVID Positive Winning T20 World Cup Team to Get US$1.6 million App Designed to Save Lives not Popular with Broward Teachers US President Allocates 15,000 Refugee Admissions from Latin America and the Caribbean President Biden Signs Havana Act into Law

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

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COMMUNITY

ENTERTAINMENT

Jah Cure Facing Possible 15-year Sentence for Stabbing A3

Cayman Islands Looks Towards Reopening by Year End A4

Biden vs.

DeSantis: The Political Feud Continues A8

Lila Iké Working with H.E.R on Reggae Album B3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 A group of Belize na onals rep' their home country at the 15th annual Best of the Best Music Fes val, which took place on Sunday, October 10th at the Bayfront Park in Miami. Pictured here are: Jessica Manzanl, Camila Salazar, Tracy Gomez, Nicole Gomez, Raul Gomez and John Gomez. Photo: Patrick Green

Trinidadians Pam Small and Narda Steel pose for a photo while awai ng their favorite performers at the 15th annual Best of the Best Music Fes val, which took place in Miami over the weekend.

Photo: Patrick Green

Prime Minister,. the Most. Hon Andrew Holness (centre), delivers remarks prior to handing over tablet computers and a printer to the Cedar Grove Academy in St. Catherine. Others (from le ) are: Principal for the Gregory Park Primary School in St. Catherine Richard Williams; State Minister in the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and East Central St. Catherine Member of Parliament, Hon. Alando Terrelonge; Cedar Grove Academy student, Ajani Williams, and Ac ng Principal, Jonelle Prince. Photo: Rudnarath Fraser

Erica and Felicia represent the Bahamas with the na onal flag at the 15th annual Best of the Best Music Fes val, which took place on Sunday, October 10th at the Bayfront Park in Miami.

Photo: Patrick Green

Lauderhill elected officials show support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, at the #PinkUpLauderhill event on October 1. The event was spearheaded by Commissioner Lawrence Mar n. From le : Commissioners Lawrence Mar n, Melissa Dunn, Mayor Ken Thurston and Commissioners Ray Mar n. Contributed

Miramar Vice Mayor Yve e Colbourne (le ) and Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness present the keys to the county to Belize's Minister of Home Affairs & New Growth Industries, Kareem Musa (center) on October 8, 2021. Contributed

Jamaica's Consul General for New York, Alsion Wilson delivers remarks at the Jamaica Tourist Board's Northeast Regional Seminal in Brooklyn on October 5, 2021. Contributed

Jamaica's Health and Wellness Minister, Dr. Christopher Tu on and Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Audrey P. Marks, are all smiles as they pose for a photo during Dr Tu on's recent visit to the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington DC. Photo Derrick Sco

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A3

NEWSMAKER

‘It’s Cure Again!’

Reggae Singer Jah Cure Could Face Another 15-Year Sentence After Stabbing Promoter in Netherlands Over two decades ago, Reggae Singer Jah Cure was sentenced to 15 years in prison for illegal possession of a firearm, robbery with aggravation, and rape of a 19-year-old girl in 1999. He was released on parole after serving only eight years, but now the controversial singer is possibly facing another 15-year stint, this time for attempted manslaughter, among slew of other charges.

The reggae singer, whose real name is Siccature Alcock, currently sits behind bars remanded, for the alleged stabbing of an event promoter in Zaandam, Netherlands.

A report from the Netherlands Public Prosecution Service confirmed details of a stabbing incident on October 1 in the Dam Square and that a suspect was in custody; however, due to Dutch privacy laws, they could not provide the name of the individuals involved.

Subsequent reports revealed that the singer had an altercation with event promoter Nicardo Blake, who was instrumental in arranging his booking to perform overseas.

The disagreement in Dam Square, the city center of Amsterdam, resulted in the alleged stabbing of Blake in the abdomen by Alcock.

Blake managed to go to the police and make a report. He was then taken to the hospital where he had surgery.

Amsterdam police personnel were quick with their investigations and wasted no time in arresting the reggae singer on October 2, in the city center of Utrecht. On October 5, Alcock was arraigned before the examining judge, who ordered that the artist remains in custody, without bail, in a detention center for 14 days while investigations go underway.

Eek-A-Mouse

Jah Cure

Jah Cure is facing possible charges of suspicion for attempted murder, attempted manslaughter, and aggravated assault. This is also not the singer's first time being arrested outside of Jamaica. In 2016, he was arrested for a violent altercation in the Bahamas, and in 2015, arrested in Trinidad for failing to pay performance fees.

Some fans say it is bad fate that Jah Cure is looking at another 15-year stint in prison, after not completing the first, but for veteran reggae

Blake

singer, Eek-A-Mouse, it's the alleged stab victim who had it coming.

Eek-A-Mouse explained to Caribbean National Weekly that Blake, a well-known promoter, has been “ripping off” Jamaican artists for years, and finally met his match with Jah Cure.

“A lot of history is repeating, this is history we are seeing here, dem man deh wicked. I know the promoter very well so I can say these things, and much more can be said.”

That is how it is in foreign, somebody can rip you off; they can rip you off, and tempt you to provoke you to stab them or punch them down. You go to the police and it is like you lose double, you know double Jeopardy?” – Eek-A-Mouse “Capleton worked with Papa and knows Papa too. He should tell the people that Papa took his money too. Luciano as well must come out and tell the people, cause Jah Cure nah go jail enuh,” He told CNW Network.

Jah Cure celebrated his 43rd birthday, in prison, on October 11. He is set to appear before a judge in Amsterdam on October 18th.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN

Cayman Looks Towards Reopening by Year End The Government of the Cayman Islands is hoping that the borders of the territory will be unlocked before the end of the year.

According to Tourism Minister Kenneth Bryan, he is hoping that American Airlines could resume flights to Grand Cayman by Christmas.

Speaking in an interview with the Cayman Compass the Tourism Minister said that following a virtual meeting with officials from American Airlines while they were excited and ready to return to service in Grand Cayman, but they need at least 60 days' notice to initiate flight resumptions.

According to Bryan, he spoke to the regional representatives of the airline who said they did not want to have to cancel flights. They added they would try to restart as soon as possible once an official announcement was made.

He said he advised them that if they were unable to restart at that time, Cayman Airways stood ready to pick up some of the slack on the

Tourism Minister Kenneth Bryan said that American Airlines was excited about resuming flights to Cayman.

key routes, such between Dallas and Grand Cayman.

“We do not want to have that loss for Cayman as a destination… It was important for them to know that, not that we are trying to step on their toes.”

Bryan said the relationship with American Airlines had to be positive and “not hostile” and it was important to discuss with them about Cayman Airways filling in with flights not yet

reinstated by the US carrier.

“They understand, they were cool with it,” he said, adding he was encouraged that officials said they will do everything they can to restart flights within their capacity of operations.

“It is not like they do not want to be here.

They have expressed that they are quite saddened to have canceled flights. They are excited to come back as soon as they can,” he added.

Barbados to Establish Vaccine Safe Zones The Barbados government has announced plans for the establishment of safe zones as the island continues to be impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley in a radio and television broadcast on Monday night, said that her administration had decided against further lockdowns and that it was now necessary to protect those who are taking the vaccine.

“The reality is that we are satisfied that we need now at this stage to start the process of the creation of safe zones. And what do we mean by

safe zones? That we need to be able to have places where persons are either vaccinated or recently tested,” she said.

“The Ministry of Health will therefore feed us with a series of bitesize chunks; and why?

Because we have limited capacity as a small state. I would love to tell you we can do the guidance notes for every area and every sector [at] one time. But if we want to do what we are doing well, while at the same time managing the home isolation and the home quarantine programme, then we are going to do it in ways

that are manageable and sustainable.”

Mottley said that the creation of these safe zones will first target care workers in the first instance, followed by frontline workers, along with those in the tourism and education sectors.

The government is hoping that over a period of time, people employed in the restaurant and entertainment sectors, as well as worshippers, will be included in the creation of safe zones.

Mottley said that an estimated 142, 543 continues on B4 – Safe Zones

Bahamas Opposition to Hold Convention to Elect New Leadership The Bahamas main opposition Free National Movement (FNM) will hold a one-day convention on November 27 to elect a new leader following the party's trouncing at the September 16 general elections, when it was trounced by a 32-7 margin.

FNM Chairman Carl Culmer, said that the party's central council had earlier this week, agreed to hold the convention amid concerns that some members were of the opinion that the leadership contest should take place Culmer in December.

Former prime minister Dr. Hubert Minnis, who led the party into the last general election, has not given an indication as to whether or not he will stand for re-election even as he had been sworn in as Opposition Leader.

Culmer said he would not speculate on whether Minnis would be nominated for the post.

“At the end of the day, persons are free to nominate. The nomination will close on the Saturday before and so they have between 9 and 5 each day. Preparations will be made for ballots and nominations and so at the end of the day persons will have the opportunity to nominate.”

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 –

Talk Up!

TALKUP

What Do You Think Attracts So many Immigrants to the South Florida Region?

There has been a significant increase in the number of Caribbean-Americans migrating to the South Florida region, and in particular, to Broward County. That's according to date released from the 2020 census. The data reveals that Broward County is a majorityminority county- meaning the majority of the population identifies outside of the 'White' demographic.

The largest minority group in Broward County is now Hispanic, but the Black population has also increased by 15 percent, when compared to the 2010 census, according to Broward County Mayor Steve Geller. He said the reason for that increase is the large number of Caribbean nationals that have migrated to the state, particularly to the South Florida region. Given the increase in immigrants to Broward and other areas of South Florida in recent years, we asked readers that they think attracts immigrants to South Florida. Here are the responses:

Brittany Johnson: Work has always been the great magnet attracting migrants to the South Florida. Historically, immigrants tackled jobs that native-born Americans avoided, such as digging canals, building railroads, or working in steel mills and garment factories. My parents are immigrants from Haiti and found a home away from home here because the job opportunity was greater here than in any other state at the time.

Karen Douglass: As a realtor for the tricounty, Florida's popularity as a relocation destination is aided by lower housing costs than other states, depending on where you are coming from and whether you're in the market to rent an apartment or buy a home. Those moving to The Sunshine State get a deal on homeownership, paying less than 1% for property taxes while other popular states pay more than 2%. Florida's no income tax status is also a big attraction for those moving out of states that tax individuals on income. Florida is one of only nine states in the U.S. with no income tax.

Abigail Francis: My dad sent me up here from Jamaica to live with my aunt so that I can get a nursing job when I graduate from college.

They thought that was the best decision since not all my credits would have transferred from Jamaica if I stayed there to get my degree.

Overall, I don't think the education system is better here I just feel as though the job opportunities out of college is greater and easier to attain.

Rasheed Likam: It's one of 7 states that do not collect individual income tax and its part of the Florida Constitution so highly unlikely that this benefit will change in the foreseeable future. Can you imagine not having to pay individual income tax? That's a huge draw for anyone moving to Florida. So, I’m guessing that it has some relevance in why people choose Florida. Among other factors of course.

Odain Beckford: As South Florida is such a popular destination for British expats and migrants, there is a whole industry set up to make the transition as easy as possible. So no matter whether it's buying property, finding a job or shipping your belongings to South Florida, the move here from essentially anywhere in the Caribbean is feasible and manageable. From amazing culture and climate to the economy, architecture and property it's a seriously attractive proposition for anyone who fancies living in a vibrant, forward-thinking state.

The Charleston's: The attractive stance on income tax, the great education and the affordable housing all cement Florida as one of the go-to places for anyone with ambition and drive. There's something for everyone here! It’s a perfect mix of diversity that allows people from other countries to be who they are while adapting to life in America.

A5

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A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

EDITORIAL

Prevention is Always Better Than Cure A

lmost everyone in the Caribbean or the diaspora, has heard the adage: “Prevention is better than cure.” We are also familiar with the maxim, “those who can't hear will feel.” No explanations needed to understand what is meant by these sayings. But as profound as they are, many have either forgotten or chose to ignore them during this existential crisis brought on by Covid19.

The damage to Caribbean lives and livelihood is incredible. The latest figures from the World Health Organization shows that the 20 Caricom countries have had 340,902 cases of covid infections. 7,914 of our people have died because of Covid. 2,034 persons died in Jamaica, 1,555 in Trinidad, Surinam had 974, Guyana with 842, and Haiti's 643 account for the top five. These numbers are more than statistics. They are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, loving relatives, and friends.

Apart from the devastating loss of lives, the impact on livelihood has been severe. Every Caribbean country and people, including those in the diaspora is feeling the pinch. Jobs are being lost, while income at the macro and micro levels have been reduced. Social infrastructures have had massive dislocations, our children are facing monumental challenges in their learning experiences, and our health care systems are crumbling under the pressure.

But why are we facing this catastrophic dilemma and were there opportunities to lessen the blows? Simply put, we ignored what we know; prevention is better than cure and those who can't hear will feel.

During the early part of the pandemic, we were faced with choices and the opportunities to drastically limit the impact of covid-19. We were told to practice some simple basic procedures. We were advised to wash our hands frequently, stay at least six feet from others, avoid crowds, cover our coughs or sneezes, clean surfaces frequently, wear a mask, and don't put dirty hands in our faces. We

Governments began to implement lockdowns and mandates to get compliance but that failed as well. And now here we are today, with the latest effort being vaccination mandates as part of the cure.

Not only are more governments adopting forced vaccinations, but a fast-growing list of public and private companies are geing into the mix as well. paid little attention to these suggestions and the numbers climbed.

As the numbers increased dramatically, we were also advised to lock our doors and borders, to avoid further transmission from people we do not know or who were coming from other places.

Again, we ignored that too. The numbers kept on climbing and we were told to continue all the above, plus take a vaccine. Yet again, we ignored the suggestion and the warnings. The northbound trajectory of the numbers kept on going.

Governments began to implement lockdowns and mandates to get compliance but that failed as well. And now here we are today, with the latest effort being vaccination mandates as part of the cure. Not only are more governments adopting forced vaccinations, but a fast-growing list of public

and private companies are getting into the mix as well. As a result, more people will have to make the choice to keep their jobs or create their own, get services with proof of vaccination or stay without.

This is obviously going to cause more hardships and dislocations. But it is not as if we did not know; “prevention is better than cure, and those who don't hear will feel.”

An analysis of the numbers from countries where people listened, and governments made the tough choices is quite telling. China, which has 1.402 billion people, is reporting 125,085 cases with 5,695 deaths. Australia's population is 25.69 million, yet its covid case numbers are 129,570 with 1,448 deaths. The best case of a country that has succeeded in containing the covid spread however, is New Zealand; With a population of 5.084 million, the island has only 4,345 cases with twenty-eight deaths.

Of course, some people will insist that the resources of these countries and access to solutions including vaccines, are much better than any Caribbean Island. We will also hear the argument about trade dependency, particularly where Caribbean islands depend on people from other places to provide needed revenue through tourism.

Yes, they may be right, but there is a deeper and more potent reason for the containment in these countries. In the places where governments and the people create a united team to fight the covid enemy, success usually occur. Where there are divisions, chaos and high covid numbers are inevitable.

Fighting covid does not only require access to and use of the best solutions, but it is also essential and critical to have a mutual understanding and agreement between people and governments. Only then will we have a restoration of freedom to do what we want, when and how we want. Otherwise, choices will be made for us, which may have decimated consequences on our lives and livelihood.

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 –

A7

la section haitienne

Wife of Haiti's Slain President Meets with Judge amid Investigation Martine Moïse, the widow of Haiti's assassinated president, traveled to her homeland to answer questions behind closed doors last Wednesday from a judge overseeing the murder case.

Surrounded by heavy security, Moïse waved to supporters who yelled “Justice!” and entered the courthouse in the capital of Portau-Prince, emerging almost three hours later.

“I answered 80 questions,” she said. “I gave him all the information I had.”

The investigation into the July 7 attack in which President Jovenel Moïse was shot several times at his private home and his wife injured continues as many wonder who masterminded and financed the assassination. More than 40 suspects have been arrested including 20 Haitian police officers and 18 former Colombian soldiers, with Colombian officials saying the majority did not know the true nature of the operation. Authorities say other suspects are still on the run, including a former Haitian senator.

As Martine Moïse left the courthouse, a group of about 50 supporters surrounded her car and chanted, “This is my mom!

This is my mom!”

Before departing, Moïse said she was seeking justice for her husband: “I'm calling on everyone who knows something about the assassination of my husband to bring some information to authorities.”

She declined further comment except to say that it is the first time she speaks to the judge about the case and that she would be available any time she is needed. Moïse was flown to Miami after being shot and has been temporarily living there.

Earlier in the day, supporters wearing white T-shirts emblazoned with a picture of Jovenel Moïse chanted and clapped as several yelled that the assassination was a blow for them. Some of them scuffled with critics of Moïse who also were present.

Martine Moïse was interviewed the same day that the ombudsman-like Office of Citizen Protection held a press

Martine Moïse

conference to demand that authorities investigate Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry. The former chief prosecutor of Port-auPrince, whom Henry fired, said the prime minister had received two phone calls from a key suspect just hours after the assassination.

Henry recently told The Associated Press that he does not recall receiving those calls, adding that he fired the prosecutor and the justice minister as he accused them of not being credible or ethical.

The Office of Citizen Protection also requested that the United Nations launch an international commission of inquiry.

Top US Official Uzra Zeya to Visit Haiti The United States Department of State says a top official will travel to Haiti on Tuesday to meet with officials on the ongoing political, economic and humanitarian crises in the French-speaking Caribbean country.

It said Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya will travel to Haiti and Panama during a five day period.

In Haiti, Zeya will meet with Prime Minister Ariel Henry “to discuss an inclusive, Haitian-led political dialogue that will lead to free and fair elections; how Haiti can provide better security for all its citizens; and support for returning Haitian migrants.”

The Under Secretary will also meet with Minister of Justice Liszt Quitel to discuss the investigation into the July 7 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and the Bel-Air, La Saline and Grand Ravine massacres, the State Department said.

“The Haitian people deserve justice in all these cases,” it said, adding that Zeya will also meet with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) “to thank them for their humanitarian assistance and earthquake recovery efforts in Haiti, including IOM's assistance to the Haitian government in receiving Haitian returnees.

“These meetings will advance partnerships that are addressing the root causes of migration in Haiti, and support Haitian-led efforts toward the restoration of democratic institutions,” the US State Department added.

Late last month, the United Nations said conditions on the ground are “dire for the thousands of Haitian migrants being forced to return to their homeland from the Americas, many of them emptyhanded and bewildered.”

Giuseppe Loprete, chief of the International Organization for Migration's (IOM) Mission in Haiti, told the UN that around 5,500 people have been forcibly returned to Haiti since September 19, “with thousands more expected in the days ahead.”

Those being expelled from the US border area continues on A8 – Zeya to Visit Haiti

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

COMMUNITY

Florida Threatens to Take Federal Funds Given to Broward Schools by Biden The feud continues between the Biden Administration and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over Florida’s handling of the pandemic and its mandates, and neither seem to backing down anytime soon.

By Sheri-Kae McLeod

A week after the Biden administration awarded Broward Schools over $420,000 to support their decision to keep a mask mandate, Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran has threatened to take that money away.

Corcoran sent a letter to the State Board of Education on last week asking for more financial penalties for the Broward School District for disobeying the Governor's orders.

The letter asked the state board to “withhold state funds in an amount equal to 1/12 of all school board members' salaries, as well as withholding state funds in an amount equal to any federal grant funds awarded to” Broward's school district.

The threat is the latest in a two-month battle between state officials and Broward schools over mask mandates for students.

Recently, some Broward parents gathered in protest, trying to convince the school board to comply with the governor's order. During the school board meeting, Christine Shapiro, a parent at Broward Schools, said it is frustrating that the board won't allow continues on B4 – Federal Funds

Miramar Manor Construction Underway with Groundbreaking Ceremony Miramar Commissioner Alexandra Davis and Vice Mayor Yvette Colbourne visited the site where the luxury residential complex, Miramar Manor is being built. The official groundbreaking was held on October 12, 2021. The space, located in the Miramar Town Center, will have 393 apartments along with an interior courtyard with a pool, a game room, a bowling alley, a club room, a private dining area, a yoga and spin room, coworking space, and a spa with sauna and steam rooms. The project will be completed in 2023.

Pictured left to right: Matt Zaryk, Project Manager Current Builders; Jon Paul Perez, President Related Group; Miramar Commissioner, Alexandra P. Davis; Miramar Vice Mayor, Yvette Colbourne; Ron Melendez, Vice President Related Group.

Zeya to Visit Haiti from A7

and flown home, often after spending years away, are “returning to a land facing multiple crises,” said Loprete, including “a recent devastating earthquake, rampant gang violence and the COVID-19 pandemic.”

US Congressman Gregory W. Meeks said his “heart goes out to the people of Haiti, especially those seeking refuge at our borders that have fled their homes after enduring extreme political and environmental hardships.

“American values dictate that we respond to our neighboring friends with compassion, as the Haitian government responds to multiple, overlapping crises,” said Meeks, who represents the 5th Congressional District in Queens, New York.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 –

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FEATURE

Best of the Best Caribbean Concert was Just That!

By Patrick Green

Thousands of Caribbean immigrants and lovers of Reggae, Dancehall, and Soca music jammed the Bay Front Park grounds in Miami on Sunday, to soak in six hours of pulsating rhythms and live entertainment at the 15th staging of Best of the Best Concert. Apart from the absence of Koffee who allegedly missed the show because of Covid, the crowd certainly got their monies worth.

Scheduled to start at 3 pm, the first entertainer did not grace the stage until about 4:30 pm, but from there on it was nonstop rocking, jumping, and gyrating to loud Caribbean music. From all indications the show was a success. The promoters had earlier indicated that the show was a sellout, and there were very few spots on the ground to prove otherwise.

A true Caribbean affair, national flags were plenty, as patrons waved and danced to their favorite songs.

MC Jabba was at his best, as he kept the crowd engaged and entertained with the help of his Djs. The first segment was dedicated

Alison Hinds

to Soca music and the performers did not disappoint. Problem Child, Farmer Nappy, Lyrical, Bunji Garlin and Skinny Fabulous were at their best, as Soca lovers jumped and gyrated nonstop. When Soca queen Allison Hinds touched the stage at around 6:30 pm she infused an infectious excitement in the already ‘unruly’ crowd. Her skin-tight pants suit and flexible hips gave her command of the crowd, as she teased and displayed her indiscriminate ability to rotate her hips.

Kicking off the Reggae section was veteran DJ Lady G. The ‘Nuff Respect’ and ‘Legal Rights’ hit maker, reminded the crowd why she was at the top of the dancehall table at her peak. She performed with her two daughters and introduce the crowd to some new renditions.

There is hardly a Reggae concert without a Marley. This year’s Best of

Tarrus Riley

Tanya Stephens

Spice

Ding Dong

the Best concert was no different.

Representing Reggae music’s biggest name was Jo Mersa Marley, the grandson of the legendary Bob Marley and son of Stephen. He and his brother Yohan kept the crowd

rocking to songs of his grandfather and a few of their own.

By this time the crowd was well primed for ‘Superman’ Taurus Riley.

Teaming up with saxophonist Dean Fraser, he pleased the Caribbean

crowd with song after song. His ‘She’s Royal’ serenading performance to Allison Hinds made his stint special and got him a crowd favorite medal.

Tanya Stephens was her usual ‘Unapologetic’ self, belting out the crowd’s favorite classics with lessons for both the men and women in the audience. An overzealous Ding Dong and his entourage took the stage a little after 9 pm and gave an electrifying performance. By far he was the most engaging artist. He and his crew walked off the stage and interacted with the crowd like no other, waving Jamaican flags while moving tables and chairs in their way.

The self-professed “madman,” at one time was sitting atop the barrier fencing that separated the VIPs from the general admission audience, while keeping the rapt attention of the crowd.

The curtains came down on Best of the Best 2021 with the spiciest performance of the night. Dressed in a butterfly costume, Spice minced no words, took no prisoners, and delivered her “Gaza” styled lyrics to a very vociferous crowd. Her dancers were just as raunchy, delivering dance moves with acrobatic skills that kept the pulse of the audience racing.

Spice was amazing with her stage performance as well, and as is customary, pulled a male fan on stage to demonstrate her sexually suggestive lyrics.

All in all, Best of the Best lived up to its name. It was five months late, but the wait was well worth it.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM 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 LAWTON CHILES MIDDLE 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. 01617100 LAWTON CHILES MIDDLE SCHOOL RENOVATIONS 8190 N.W. 197 STREET MIAMI, FLORIDA 33015 BIDS DUE: Sealed bids will be received by The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, for the project listed herein, until 1:00 P.M. local time, Tuesday November 23, 2021, at 1450 N.E. Second Avenue, Lobby in the N.E. Fifteenth (15th) Street entrance, 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 the Board Auditorium, 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 or via email at oeo@dadeschools.net 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, Norman Schwartz, (nschwartz@saltzmichelson.com), Saltz Michelson Architects, Inc., 8400 N.W. 36 Street, Suite 450, Doral, Florida 33166. Questions will be accepted until 5:00 pm on Friday, November 5th, 2021. Answers will only be issued to Contractors who attend the mandatory Pre-bid Conference.

MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE: (Lawton Chiles Middle School): Tuesday, October 26, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. local time, at Lawton Chiles Middle School, 8190 N.W. 197 Street, Miami, Florida 33015. 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, 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 FS 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: https://go.boarddocs.com/fl/sbmd/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BK6KUF4FFE14.

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. on 3715 Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 on and after October 11, 2021.

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 January 15, 2020, 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: Lawton Chiles Middle School: S/MBE Mandatory Subcontracting Goals: 19.47% Construction and 20% Local Work Force, within a County-wide radius.

Mandatory M/WBE Subcontracting Goals: 5.53%- 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

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B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CONTINUATIONS

Miss Jamaica

from A1

an engineer in Italy and Singapore.

She describes herself as a health and nutrition enthusiast and mechanical engineer-turned-foodie. She launched her plant-based Shibumi Jamaica food delivery service in Jamaica in 2020 upon discovering that 74 percent of Jamaicans do not eat the recommended daily portions of fruits and vegetables.

Shibumi, which is Japanese for “simple, effortless beauty”.

Hall is also a food blogger at Mix Up and Blenda, where she promotes her philosophy of living: finding a balance, choosing simplicity, and eating “real food.”

Hall will now go on to represent Jamaica in the Miss World grand coronation at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Jose Miguel Agrelot in San Juan on December 16. There, she will compete against beauties from 122 other countries for the coveted Miss World 2021 title. She said she has already achieved one of her major goals, given that entering the pageant was something "in the back of my mind from I was a little girl".

Federal Aid

from A8

parents to make the decisions.

“I understand that you guys are trying to find a middle ground but it is still breaking the law. For the parents that are watching their children suffer, it is frustrating to feel ignored and unheard,” she said.

Despite the requests and threats, Broward School Board refused to budge. On Tuesday, they voted 8 to 1 to maintain the mask mandate, which allows an exemption only for medical conditions. The protocols will stay in place until COVID positivity rates sit at or below 3% for 10 days, in addition to the 66% vaccination rate already achieved.

Chair of the board, Dr Rosalind Osgood said she won't be risking the lives of people in the community.

“I'm not willing to risk anybody's life — student or staff,” said Rosalind Osgood, chair of the Broward school board. “I wouldn't do it with my children, my grandchildren, or myself,” she said.

In the meantime, other South Florida counties, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach may also face penalties for their mask rules.

The state's Department of Education will meet Thursday to consider possible punishments.

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Safe Zones

from A4

Barbadians have already been vaccinated against COVID-19 and that while the government was maintaining its position against mandatory vaccinations, government still had a duty to create a “safe place and a safe zone” for those who were vaccinated and did not wish to be infected by the virus.

She said that officials were satisfied that they needed to start the process of creating safe zones where persons were either vaccinated or frequently tested.

“At the end of the day, what matters is that you are safe and not in a position to put each other at risk,” Mottley said, adding that such a process would result in unvaccinated people being tested weekly at government's expense, while vaccinated persons would be tested, but less frequently.

“The truth is that persons who are vaccinated will have a less frequent regime…. Persons who are vaccinated are less likely to catch it [COVID-19], and if they catch it, they are less likely to be contagious because it is not going to stay with

Abihail Myrie

from A1

caption, “my own father @bujubanton who I thought was good, who I even defended-tried to kill me. He strangled me and put me out of his home- out of our home and I have scars to show. If you can do this to your own blood, what will you do to other people?”

Another post showed screenshots from a conversation, seemingly between Myrie and a family member, with other allegations of abuse by the deejay. The screenshot was posted with the caption, “@bujubanton you abuse all your kids” Hours after the posts were made on Tuesday, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) released a statement saying that Abihail was missing. The JCF stated that she had been missing since Saturday, October 9, despite the posts coming from her social media accounts on Tuesday, October 12.

Hours after the report was made, Abihail took to social media again, to dismiss claims that she was ever missing, and to reiterate the claims of abuse. Through an attorney, her mother, Lorna Strachan, also said her daughter is safe and has been in constant contact.

The statement from Maurice McCurdy's law firm said: “Miss Myrie is concerned about the report and would like to assure the public about her well-being. She is in direct communication with her mother, Lorna Strachan. The police

954.739.6618

them…,” Mottley said.

She said the process of establishing safe zones would be led by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and done “in a series of bite sized chunks” as it continued to manage the overall situation in the country.

Mottley said that in the first instance, the government would be seeking to protect the most vulnerable in society such as the elderly, those in nursing homes, the Geriatric Hospital, hospitals and those dependent on caregivers.

She said the guidance notes which would be issued by the Ministry of Health and Wellness later this week would insist on testing for persons based on risk.

“The Ministry of Health [and Wellness] has indicated that those are the high risk areas, and… it is anticipated that unvaccinated persons…in these high risk areas will have to be tested at least once a week, in order to ensure that we are taking care of those we have to take care of.”

have been advised of same.”

Abihail took to Twitter to explain that she thinks her father and sister, Jodian Myrie - a member of the Jamaica Labour Party, were behind the missing person's report. Jodian is the councillor caretaker for the East Central St. Andrew division.

“I'm not missing. they are lying. my sister Jodian and my dad are doing this because I proved that he abused me. and has been abusive- not only to me but everyone around him and them. They are doing this to trick you all because they are trying to kill me,” she tweeted.

She also questioned why her father remained silent on the missing person's report, if he was genuinely concerned about her safety.

“How can I, my daddy's 'princess' be missing and he is sooo nonchalant about it? Not one post, come on,” she wrote.

“If anything happens, you all know where to look,” she added. In the rant, Myrie also posted images of her neck with several scars, alleging that she was strangled by her father. She has retained a lawyer and said that she will be taking legal action to protect her image.

Up to the time of this report, neither Buju Banton, nor Jodian Myrie, has commented on any of the allegations.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 –

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ENTERTAINMENT

Lila Iké Working with H.E.R on Reggae Album After being spotted in the studio together last year, Jamaican starlet Lila Iké has confirmed that she is working on her upcoming Reggae project with R&B superstar and Grammy and Oscar award-winner H.E.R. Iké sat down on a London street sidewalk in an episode of Deadly Links with host Becca Dudley recently to discuss what it was like flexing bars with the Damage singer, who revealed last month that she would be bringing “Roots Reggae, Dancehall, R&B Feels” on her next project.

While H.E.R. stated that the album's guest list would be a “surprise,” Shenseea has already confirmed that she will appear on it.

Lila, 27, told Dudley that the Damage singer's team approached her about helping with the project, and she was thrilled because she was already a huge fan.

“That was dope, she's one of my favorite R&B Soul artists right now,” she said.

The Solitude singer praised H.E.R.'s work ethic and described her time working with her as “one of the greatest things I've experienced in my career.”

Lila went on to say, “She's exceptional,” before explaining why.

“First and foremost, her writing… I believe she is 22 years old. [Now 24], she's still very young, but the way she expresses herself reminds me a lot of Lauryn Hill. I see a young Lauryn Hill in her, as well as her work ethic.”

They would spend several hours in the studio recording song after song, and “she

just keeps going, like we finish a song, it's like alright let's hear something else,” Lila said.

“And just her musical knowledge, she understands music theory, she plays almost all instruments… It's something beautiful to witness and be inspired by,” she added.

The experience inspired her to return home and hone her own abilities with the 'chords.'

Iké, who released her debut EP, The ExPerience, in 2020, stated that when she returns to Jamaica, she plans to finish her debut studio album and is “excited and confident” about what she and her team have in store. Fans can expect some cool international collaborations as well as her opening up more about her life and thoughts, according to her.

Lila Iké

Entertainment Minister Pleased With Jamaica's Portrayal in New James Bond Film Jamaica's Entertainment Minister Olivia Grange says that she is happy with how Jamaica was showcased in the new James Bond film, No Time To Die. In a statement, Grange said the film “has really promoted destination Jamaica, location Jamaica, the culture of Jamaica — its warmth, its people, its vibes, its music, it's just wonderful.”

The film, parts of which were shot in the eastern parish of Portland, was due to be released in April 2020 but was delayed because of the covid-19 pandemic.

It is now in theatres worldwide.

“I'm so happy that the Bond film has now been released. I'm so happy because what it has done is showcase Jamaica in so many ways,” said Grange as she spoke following the recent screening of the movie.

The new James Bond girl Lashana Lynch – is of Jamaican heritage. The movie also featured another Jamaican actress, Naomi Harris.

Grange said several government ministries, including the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service as well as the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, facilitated the local production.

“It took a collaborative effort and I'm happy we have seen the fruits of our labor and our collaboration. I'm proud to be Jamaican when I look at this film… and there is an arrangement now where the film will promote Jamaica as a tourist destination.”

The Minister said the government would continue to push Jamaica as the perfect location to make films.

“I just want to encourage other filmmakers to continue to come to Jamaica. Make your films here. We have all that you need. We have the required skills and we have the beautiful locations.”

C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

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SPORTS CRICKET

HORSE RACING

Sir Viv Questions Jason Holder's Exclusion from T20 World Cup Squad

Bajan Walcott and Jamaican Nelson Combine for Three Caribbean Wins

Legendary West Indies batsman and former captain Sir Viv Richards says he is puzzled about why allrounder Jason Holder was left out of the 15-member T20 World Cup squad and instead named among the reserves.

Sir Viv said the former West Indies captain is still one of the best players in the region and deserved to be part of the 15-man squad.

“We may have our issues with Jason when he was in charge as captain of the team, but we can never doubt the individual's ability and his talent and I just felt sad that someone with such ability couldn't make a West Indies T20,” the cricket legend told the Antigua Observer newspaper.

Holder was named as a reserve for the tournament, in which West Indies are defending champions, along with Darren Bravo, Sheldon Cottrell, Jason Holder and Akeal Hosein.

Holder had a total of 90 runs, an average of 30, and claimed nine wickets in 10 matches and three of West Indies' series against Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka, although he struggled in the team's most recent series against Pakistan, getting just two runs and four wickets in four matches.

The squad for the West Indies team includes Kieron Pollard (Captain), Nicholas Pooran, Fabian Allen, Dwayne Bravo, Roston Chase, Andre Fletcher, Chris Gayle, Shimron Hetmyer, Evin Lewis, Obed McCoy, Lendl

Richards

“We may have our issues with Jason when he was in charge as captain of the team, but we can never doubt the individual's ability and his talent and I just felt sad that someone with such ability couldn't make a West Indies T20.” – Richards

Holder

Simmons, Ravi Rampaul, Andre Russell, Oshane Thomas, and Hayden Walsh Jr. Despite his disappointment in Holder's omission, Sir Viv called for fans to rally behind the West Indies in their title defence.

“At the end of the day, regardless of who goes out … I still believe that things can be accomplished and that's the way we should feel…. It's a West Indies team and every time we go out onto the field, as supporters, we should get behind them,” Sir Viv told the newspaper.

Barbadian Rico Walcott continued his push for another jockeys' title and Jamaican Dane Nelson kept up appearances on Friday's nine-race card at the Century Mile racetrack.

Walcott landed a double thanks to a disqualification in the fifth race to move to 60 wins for the season – six more than his nearest rival Enrique Alonzo Gonzalez – with the season set to end on October 30. Nelson has only seven wins.

Nelson was first in the frame when he rode 3-1 chance Wheelsupinthirty to a 2 1/2-length win over Maryam, under Walcott, in the CAN $8,000 fourth race.

Wheelsupinthirty, a six-year-old, dark bay mare, quickly took command of the 1,300 metres gallop on the dirt and responded well to her challengers in the homestretch before drawing clear to clock one minute, 17.06 seconds.

In the CAN $7,030 next race over six furlongs on the dirt, Walcott got 5-1 bet Devils Command to finish second a neck behind Bare Back Jack, under Alexander Marti, but won the race in the stewards' room.

Walcott put Devils Command to stalk the dueling pace-setters, and he moved up the fouryear-old, dark bay gelding alongside Bare Back Jack at the head of the homestretch to challenge for the lead.

Marti, however, was not able to maintain control of Bare Back Jack and the four-year-old, dark bay gelding repeatedly bumped Devils Command, knocking her off her stride, and got to the line in 1 min, 10.10 secs.

Walcott completed his double with a win by a head aboard the 4-1 choice Piper Rose in the CAN $11,030 eighth race over seven furlongs on the dirt.

Walcott put Piper Rose to chase the frontrunners on the inside and swung the seven-yearold, dark bay mare out in the final turn and rallied the “ol' girl” between horses through the homestretch and narrowly prevailed in a multiple horse dash to the wire in 1:23.91.

SUNDAY DEC. 12

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 14 – OCT 20, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T