National Weekly October 22, 2020

THE MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED CARIBBEAN AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN FLORIDA

CNWEEKLYNEWS.COM

THURSDAY OCTOBER 22, 2020

JAMAICA

E N D O R S E M E N T

Buju Banton Receives Backlash For Anti-Mask Rant

We’re Exhausted!

Vote Joe Biden For President

Veteran Reggae/Dancehall artist Buju Banton has received massive backlash for an anti-mask rant he made on social media.

In the series of videos posted to his Instagram account, the deejay lashed out at the Jamaican government while calling for an end to wearing masks.

“We wah done with this maskwearing bulls**t inna Jamaica and who fi dead ago dead and who Nah go dead ago just live,” Buju Banton boldly stated.

He continued to accuse policymakers of causing the Jamaican people to be in abject fear and of driving people into poverty. “What have you done for all those who you have laid off and mek dem business close early? Jamaican people need to wake up… Mi nah wear nuh mask …mask nuh mek fi man,” Banton added.

In a follow-up video, also posted on Instagram, the artist also lashed out at Jamaicans for “selling their votes.”

“My people unuh better wake up

CNW Editorial Board

Joe Biden has often said on the campaign trail that we’re in a “battle for the soul of our nation.” He’s right. Our country is mired in multiple crises—a deadly pandemic that’s out of control, a cruel immigration system, a widening wealth gap and a flailing economy. Our people are deeply divided and are exhausted by uncertainty and constant chaos.

The problems we’re currently facing and the fight ahead of us will require a different approach: calm, steady leadership with experience, empathy and decency. That is what Joe Biden brings to the table. Biden and his formidable VP pick, Kamala Harris, are up to the task of course-correcting and restoring America’s faith in our leadership and our democratic institutions.

It’s also not lost on Caribbean Americans—and African Americans—that Biden has chosen a woman of color to help him on this journey. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris clearly represent the interests of Caribbean Americans.

Biden is cognizant that COVID-19 has affected communities of color disproportionately—a factor steeped in income inequality, limited access to healthcare, institutional biases and other societal ills—and positions himself as the candidate who believes in science and leads by example. These are key characteristics for combatting coronavirus.

continues on C4 – Buju Banton

Buju Banton

continues on B1 – Exhausted

WHAT’S INSIDE BATTLING VALIANTLY FOR BROWARD SCHOOLS A3

TLC

SPORTS

FEATURE

THE JAMAICA PEGASUS REDEFINING WORK-FROM-HOME B8

T&T FA PRESIDENT READY TO QUIT THE FIGHT HE LOSES APPEAL D3

fire up yuh’ grill ON OCTOBER 25 C1

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020

STAR POWER: Consul General Oliver Mair (le ) sharing a moment with Jamaican actor Paul Campbell, as he paid a courtesy call on the consul general recently at the Consulate office in downtown Miami.

Campbell is recognized interna onally for his dis nct roles in many films and on stage performances and is also an accomplished painter.

- Contributed

RAISE THE WAGE: Broward County Mayor Dale Holness, seen here in a Biden/Harris face mask, joined low wage workers at a “tent city” protest in Fort Lauderdale to highlight poverty wages and urge voters to pass Amendment 2 on Thursday. Contributed

YES ON 2: State Senator Perry Thurston showed up to a “tent city” protest in Fort Lauderdale to help low wage workers stump for their cause—raising the minimum wage in Florida. The measure is on the ballot as Amendment 2 and protesters are urging Floridians to vote yes on 2. - Contributed

READY FOR JERK DAY: In lieu of canceled jerk fes vals this year, fes val producers and organizers will celebrate the inaugural Na onal Jamaican Jerk Day on October 25, with a virtual experience for jerk lovers around the world. Here discussing plans for the celebra ons on the set of “Bar Talk” on Sunday, October 18 are (l-r) Jody Ann Gray, media personality and co-host of the Best of Jerk Fes vals; Abdul Muhsin, chairman of the board, Jamaican Jerk Fes val USA, Inc.(JJFUSA); Luke Ballen ne, host of Bar Talk, and Bridget Edwards, managing partner of JJFUSA - Contributed

TENT CITY: Protesters pitched tents as they protested low wages and support raising the minimum wage. Community ac vists, as well as labor and community groups, including 32BJ SEIU, the union that represents essen al property service workers, Fight for 15, and New Florida Majority were also present to support the ballot ini a ve that will raise Florida's minimum wage to $15 an hour by September 2026. - Contributed

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

RUNCIE BATTLING VALIANTLY FOR BROWARD SCHOOLS

T

he year 2020 has been marked by unprecedented challenges for everyone including students around the world. In South Florida, Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) Superintendent Robert Runcie, a Jamaican American, is facing one of his most difficult years yet as leader of the school district.

But Runcie isn't one to shy away from difficult challenges after the tragedy that afflicted his school district in 2018.

This year, arguably his most pressing challenge has been the decision to safely reopen Broward County public schools amid the persistent coronavirus pandemic. While the school board had also come under pressure from state officials to reopen schools, parents of BCPS students had feared that face-to-face classes would put their children at risk. A significant number of teachers also expressed fear of contracting the virus by returning to teach in classrooms. These fears may not be unfounded, as with less than two weeks after schools in the county have reopened, there have now been over 60 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among students and staff. Now, much of the blame has been placed on Runcie, the man who vowed his commitment to do the best for BCPS students nine years ago.

Robert Wellington Runcie, the son of a

the school year, Runcie went on to excel in his classes. As a student athlete at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in Hyde Park, N.Y., he juggled sports—basketball and cross country running—while earning top grades in math and science. Close to the end of his high school career, Runcie applied to several Ivy League schools, eventually deciding on Harvard University, where he majored in economics and met his wife Diana, a literature major and Harvard Law School graduate.

The couple graduated in 1984 and moved to his wife's hometown of Chicago, where they raised their three daughter, Mariama, Ayann and Folasade. Runcie earned an MBA at Northwestern University and worked as a consultant before starting his own management and technology firm.

He later joined the Chicago Public Schools where he served in various strategic roles including chief information officer, chief administrative officer and chief area

Despite sobering reviews, Runcie has still maintained his unwavering commitment to the safety and academic development of BCPS students.

Runcie

sugarcane farmer and a doting stay-at-home mom, was born in rural Perth Town, Trelawny, Jamaica in 1961.

As a child, his everyday life involved milking cows and helping his mother collect eggs from the chickens. When Robert was six years old, a chance encounter would changed the family's fortunes. A construction firm owner visiting Jamaica offered Runcie's father a job in New York. His father went alone and then after two years, his family, including young Runcie, his mother, two brothers and sister packed their bags and moved to Poughkeepsie, New York, to begin a new life.

Despite having to repeat the first grade, because his family had moved in the middle of

officer to the Board of Education, overseeing one of the largest school districts in the U.S. In 2011, when BCPS, beleaguered by mishaps and mismanagement, began its search for a new superintendent, Runcie was successfully interviewed and the school board offered him the opportunity to lead the sixthlargest school district in America. At the time, members of the community praised the hiring of the district's first black superintendent.

Under Runcie's leadership, a bright light began to shine on the Broward County school district. BCPS dramatically increased the number of A-rated schools and graduation rates throughout the county. Runcie also led the school board's creation of PROMISE—also

A3

known as Preventing Recidivism through Opportunities, Mentoring, Interventions, Support and Education—to help students remain in school, receive behavioral and counseling support and reduce non-violent misdemeanor arrests. Two years in a row, in 2015 and 2016, Runcie was named Superintendent of the Year by the Florida Association of Districts Superintendents. He also consistently received positive performance reviews by the Broward County School Board.

Then on February 14, 2018, a mass tragedy happened that would change the face of public education in Florida and alter Runcie's career.

The Parkland shooting, which is the deadliest high school shooting in United States history, happened at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and claimed the lives of 17 people, including 14 students. Many parents of the victims immediately called for the removal of Runcie, saying that his leadership had “enabled” the shooting. But in 2019 following contentious public hearings, and pushback from seemingly biased board members, the school board nonetheless voted that Runcie could keep his job.

Since March of this year, the coronavirus pandemic has presented another challenging year for the district and tested the leadership of Runcie. Like school superintendents in school districts across America, he ordered schools be closed as the pandemic soared, but found himself embroiled in, not only countywide, but a state-wide controversy, as he and the school board vacillated between different dates to open schools. Finally, succumbing to pressure from state officials to open schools or risk being defunded, Runcie agreed to open schools in Broward County two weeks ago. But it is yet to be seen if the potential for COVID-19 to spread rapidly will force him into another agonizing decision for the welfare of Broward students and teachers.

Just last month, Runcie received a grade of 2.8 out of 4 from the school board, the same grade he received in 2019. Despite what some perceive as sobering reviews, Runcie has still maintained his unwavering commitment to the safety and academic development of BCPS students.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020

CARDI Warns of Possible Hunger Pandemic The Trinidad-based Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) said, last week, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the region's food insecurity and warned against a possible hunger pandemic.

In a message to mark World Food Day 2020, CARDI established in 1974 to serve the agricultural research and development needs of the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM), noted that the COVID-19 pandemic “has revealed very clearly that although the world is producing enough food to feed all seven billion plus of us, widening inequality gaps are threatening the most vulnerable with hunger and malnutrition.”

It said in May, the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) estimated the number of people experiencing severe food insecurity in Latin America and the Caribbean will increase from 3.4 million to continues on C4 – Hunger Pandemic

‘Go With Golding’ Mark Golding Launches Official Campaign for PNP leadership On Sunday October 18, the People's National Party (PNP) presidential hopeful, Mark Golding, officially kicked off his campaign for leadership of main Jamaican opposition party with a virtual launch that boasted endorsements from a number of Jamaican private sector heavyweights and veteran politicians.

The 'Go With Golding' one-hour event included presentations from Golding's business colleagues Joseph M Matalon, Garfield Sinclair and Golding's longtime business partner and friend, Chris Dehring.

Jamaican-American Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph also endorsed Golding. During her presentation, she revealed she and Golding had worked on an album many years ago. Golding is a known lover of reggae and dancehall music and was involved in music production in the early days of career. He was the co-owner of a music label in the late 1990s.

Ralph said she had no doubt that Golding was going to well, citing his dedication to his work, integrity, commitment and passion.

Other presentations came from Senator Gabriela Morris, along with his campaign spokesperson Patricia Duncan-Sutherland and campaign director Dr Angela Brown-Burke. All spoke about their interactions with Golding in both professional and personal capacities and touted his leadership qualities.

Golding also received endorsements from president of the PNP Patriots Omar Newell, and a number of his St. Andrew Southern constituency's youth and community leaders. The launch has racked up over 17,000 views on Facebook since Sunday. continues on C4 – Golding

Mark Golding

Grenada Marks 37th Anniversary of the Murder of Former PM Grenada marked the 37th anniversary of the shooting death of its first-ever left wing prime minister, Maurice Bishop, with a call for closure for the families of those who were killed at Fort George on that day.

The shooting of Bishop, who led the People's Revolutionary Government (PRG), and some cabinet ministers and supporters triggered off an American-led invasion of the island six days later.

Bishop seized power in 1979, when his New Jewel Movement (NJM) overthrew then prime minister, Sir Eric Gairy, in the first ever coup in the English-speaking Caribbean.

Bishop

Four years later, Bishop was put under house arrest by his Deputy Prime Minister Bernard Coard.

The executive member of the Maurice Bishop and October 19th 1983 Martyrs Foundation, Dr Terrence Marryshow, laments the fact that 37 years later, there's still no closure for the families of those killed.

“There is still no closure, and particularly for continues on C4 – Maurice Bishop

FREIGHT CONSOLIDATORS

WEEKEND SPECIAL

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

A5

Talk UP What are your views on using mail-in ballots in this year's election?

In response to COVID-19, most states have ramped up mail-in voting as alternative for voters who want to avoid joining lines at poling stations. But during such an unprecedented presidential election, fear has also been widespread, as many Americans claim that more voting by mail will result in rampant election fraud.

CNW Network asked some New York and South Florida residents if they trusted the security of mail-in voting.

Christian Andres Apponte, NY - “In general, about the elections, it's all very concerning. If you don't do mail in voting, you gotta show up to long lines at polls. In this modern age, where we use technology to do everything, I don't hear any innovative ideas about how we can use technology to vote in this election. The U.S. Postal Service is being slashed tremendously by the current presidential administration. How can we be sure that they are gonna be capable of executing such a huge task for millions of voters?

I'm still not clear on the process. I'm very skeptical of the whole thing, I'm very concerned and this is just the state of where we find ourselves in this country—a lot of confusion.”

You can also look for us in Jamaica

Brenda Gregory, FL - “I'm all for mail-in voting under normal circumstances. However, even though we're facing the COVID-19 pandemic, I do not trust mailing in my ballot come November. Right now, the post office is being gutted and there's no way to tell whether the Supervisor of Elections will get the ballots in time to be counted. This election is too important.

I will be voting in person.”

Jamal Kennedy, NY - “I feel really confident about it. I think the department of elections is doing a really good job. I think the vote-by-mail option for people is really safe. I think the New York system is catered to getting more people to vote such as getting people paid time off to vote, extended voting during the primaries. So I feel confident about it. I think it's very secure and I wish more people felt that way. We're in the era of COVID where a lot of people may be reluctant to go out and vote in the public so I think mail-in voting is a valid option.”

Jeremy Teperman, NY - “I'm a fairly trusting person, so in terms of mailing the ballot and trusting that it will get to where its supposed to go, I feel the same way about it as I do in-person voting. Even if you go to the polls, tampering is always a possibility. So the mailing aspect of it doesn't make me feel any different about the security. I do feel concerned about the defunding of the postal service but as long as the post office is able to do its job, I feel okay about it. I think its gives a lot of people, who wouldn't be able to get to polling stations, the chance for their voice to be heard.”

Dan Norzea, FL - “I wouldn't go as far as calling it a necessary evil, but the use of mail-in ballots, while indeed questionable, is necessary, particularly in this year's election. COVID-19 is an obvious reason for this. However, because of this country's current political climate, it's more important than ever that all eligible persons vote.

For that to be accomplished, all methods of voting need to be utilized, including mail-in ballots.”

Brenda Clarke, NY - “I'm kinda against the mail-in voting because I feel like our votes wouldn't count if we go through to mail system.

I'm hoping that on Election Day, it's safe to come out and vote. We still have to keep a social distance. I don’t fully trust mail-in-voting, especially with all the scandals and interference going on in this election. As long as there are safe and structured procedures in place on election day, I would definitely come out and vote on November 3rd.

Dental Place Cosmetix Spa Winchester Business Center 15 Hope Road, Shop #5, Kgn 10 Ph: 876-630-4710 Fax: 876-630-4276

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020

EDITORIAL

Vote To Suppress The Suppressors Well over 30 million Americans have already cast their ballots in the 2020 presidential/general election, including some three million in Florida.

Despite significant turnout, however, voter confidence is lacking since as a considerable number of voters are uncertain about the outcome of their ballots.

With so much riding on this election and an obvious and persistent attempt to intimidate voters, disrupt the submission of mail-in ballots and create obstacles, many voters are opting to vote before Election Day, November 3. The public is also aware that all the shenanigans could delay the outcome of the election for days, and possibly weeks.

Toss up states, such as Florida, are targeted heavily since the traditional slim margin of victory between Democratic and Republican candidates makes it more susceptible to voter suppression.

In Texas, for example, polling stations and drop-off sites for mail-in ballots have been significantly reduced. Other tactics are purging voters’ lists, giving voters less time to return their ballots and the Supervisor of Elections offices less time to count the votes. Here in Florida, many exfelons, who should have been able to cast votes this in this election, were disenfranchised.

While these tactics are not new, they have escalated since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2013 against Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which required certain states and local governments to obtain federal preclearance before implementing any changes to their voting laws or practices. Without this provision, some states have

With more voting options available, voters must seek to break the voting record to ensure that there is a fundamental change in the outcome of the election.

wantonly implemented laws that continue to make voting more difficult, particularly for Black and Latino voters.

Meanwhile, recognizing these new rules to suppress the vote would likely result in a rash of lawsuits, Republican governors across the country have packed their courts with Republican-leaning judges, and the incumbent U.S. president and majority leader in the U.S. Senate have focused over the past three and a half years on packing the federal courts with Republican-leaning justices. This has resulted in a tug-of-war in state and federal courts over the constitutionality of several of these stunning voting laws.

Often, as occurred in Texas last week, a state judge overturns a governor’s imposition of a law that deliberately suppresses the vote, resulting in an appeal to a related federal court where the ruling of the state court is overturned. A similar situation also occurred in Florida when initially a Florida court blocked Governor Ron DeSantis’ decision to overrule the Constitutional Amendment approved by voters in 2018 making it possible for ex-felons to vote. In short order, a federal court condoned DeSantis’ decision to disenfranchise ex-felons unless they pay off all outstanding court fees and fines. Just last week, an email was disbursed by the DeSantis administration to strike ex-felons off the voters’ list although not in time for November’s election.

The absolute mess taking place nationwide to frustrate and suppress votes many voters believe it will take a Democratic majority in both the U.S. House and Senate to pass a law that once again protects the rights of voters in every state in presidential and general elections... and a Democratic president to sign it.

A large majority of Caribbean Americans are

MANAGING EDITOR Dr. Garth A. Rose grose@cnweeklynews.com

EDITORIAL baffled by the lack of uniformity of U.S. presidential and general election. Every state controls how voting is conducted in that state, and there’s wanton confusion deliberately backed by federal and state laws. Some people argue it’s impossible to have a uniform federal voting system, since the U.S. constitution give states the right to determine their peculiar electoral system. But, there seem to be no reason why there cannot be a new law that protects voters in each state from having their votes suppressed in federal elections.

What is certain is that voters can turnout in such huge numbers that the final tally of their votes overcomes attempts to suppress them. It’s encouraging to observe that with several days to November 3, voters are inclined to vote heavily.

To overcome all attempts at voter suppression, and leave no doubt about who wins the election, voters must seek to break the 1876 record of 81.8 percent voter turnout—which has been mostly poor ever since. Even in 2008, when the election between Barack Obama and John McCain created much excitement, voter turnout was only 57.1 percent.

Voters are encouraged to continue to vote aggressively, in droves to suppress the suppressors.

IRISH MOSS

editor@cnweeklynews.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrew Karim akarim@cnweeklynews.com

SPORTS EDITOR Don Anthony sports@cnweeklynews.com

ADVERTISING/CIRCULATION Hugh Ferguson advertising@cnweeklynews.com hferguson@cnweeklynews.com Tel: 954-739-6618 Fax: 954-765-6199

ADE WI M REAL

TH

DELICIOUS DESSERT MEDLEY

BY

P.O.Box 551712 Davie, FL 33355 advertising@cnweeklynews.com www.cnweeklynews.com

NELCIA’S NATURAL HERBS Starting at only

5

$

Weight & Wellness Store 6096 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise FL 33313 Tel: 954.861.7272

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

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

THIS ELECTION,

WE VOTE FOR OUR LIVES OUR HOMES OUR SAFETY OUR FAMILIES OUR DEMOCRACY

WE VOTE FOR

JOE BIDEN KAMALA HARRIS FOR PRESIDENT

FOR

EARLY VOTING ELECTION DAY

VICE

PRESIDENT

STARTS OCT. 19 NOVEMBER 3

TO FIND OUT WHERE TO VOTE, VISIT

FLORIDAWILL.VOTE Paid for by Win Justice. www.winjustice.org. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

A7

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

B1

VOTER’S GUIDE General Election, November 3, 2020 With the November 3, 2020 presidential election fast approaching, many South Floridians are heading to the polls to take advantage of early voting, which began on October 19, or have been submitting their mail-in ballots.

This is one of, if not, the nation's most critical elections in light of the often caustic, bizarre nature of the presidential campaign.

Voters are advised to not be dissuaded by some of the extremely negative aspects of the campaign, and overt attempts at voter intimidation and suppression but to make every effort to let their voices be heard through their special privilege to vote.

While many voters are eager to cast their ballot for next president, they are reminded whoever becomes president will have a more difficult time passing legislation or delivering on their agenda if they do not have the support of the U.S. House and Senate. That means voters should also be sure to select candidates in House and Senate races. Also very important

Exhausted

from A1

Our community needs a president who will work towards equality, racial justice and economic upliftment for the middle and working class.

With a platform of bold ideas, Biden plans to implement an economic recovery plan for working families, narrow the wealth gap and advance racial equity across the economy.

Biden’s stance on immigration is in stark contrast to the current inhumane measures in place—such as family separation—and promises to provide a fair and just system, while safeguarding the security of the nation.

Many of these issues have not been addressed in the last four years and no tangible plans have been put forward to address issues in the interest of Caribbean Americans for the next four.

With some 46 years in the U.S. House, U.S. Senate and including eight years as vice president to President Barack Obama, Joe Biden has the experience to pull America out of its current health and economic nose dive. He joined Obama in accomplishing a major economic recovery between 2008 and 2016 and he’ll be joined by Senator Kamala Harris, a proven leader in the California justice system and the U.S. Senate.

The pulse of the Caribbean American community is beating to the tune of the Biden/Harris campaign because we believe that Biden will fight for the issues that affect us the most.

What Biden is offering us is so much more profound than policy or party—he’s offering us a chance to reflect on our country today and decide whether we want to continue in the same direction or work towards a more perfect union. And that’s all we can hope for.

Therefore, the National Weekly endorses Joseph R. Biden for president.

Endorsements cont’d on PAGE ???

are local races— county and city mayors and commissioners, circuit and county court judges, and school board members—which directly impact individuals where they live and where their children go to school.

The constitutional amendments are also important and can potentially impact the lives of South Florida residents, dependent on how the majority votes.

Voters in most of the cities in Broward County must be cognizant and take careful note of the elections for offices in the city commission or city council in their respective city. These municipal elections are of extreme importance. It is the city mayor, and respective city commissioners or councilors that influence the issues that affect the daily lives of residents.

These issues include water and sewage, police security, property taxes, garbage collections, parks and gardens, city beautification, small business development and more.

Too many issues are at stake in Florida—South Florida specifically—and the nation for registered voters not to participate in the process to elect individuals who they believe can address these issues adequately.

To assist voters in their choice the Caribbean National Weekly over the past

several months has closely observed the candidates, their respective platforms, campaign website, responses to our questionnaires, and have concluded who should best be elected to represent various offices in these elections.

Voters voting by mail are encouraged to complete and sign, and turn in their ballots by mail (they can be placed in designated drop boxes at a local post office) or by delivering them to the respective Supervisor of Elections office as soon as possible, or deliver the ballots in person to an early voting polling site as soon as early voting begins.

It is specifically emphasized that mail-in voters make certain they sign the envelope in which the ballot is returned, with a signature that is as close as possible to their normal signature. Voters must not risk their ballots being rejected because of a signature that do not match the signature on file at the Supervisor of Elections office.

Voters should be aware they are able to monitor of their mail in ballot is received and has been counted by tracking their ballot on the website of the supervisor of elections office in their respective South Florida community.

If the Supervisor of Elections inform a voter

that his/her vote was rejected either because there is a problem with the signature or the outer envelope was not signed, the voter can easily correct the problem by requesting, signing and sending a Vote-By-Mail Affidavit to the office of the Supervisor of Elections along with a copy of the voter's ID. This is a key reason why those voting by mail-in ballot should try to vote and return the ballot as soon as possible after it is received.

Voters who rather vote in person, are encouraged to do so in the early days of the two week period from October 19 to November 1. If they did request and received a mail-in ballot they can take that ballot to the early voting site, turn it in and vote in person Early voting takes place from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily. Polling places will be copiously sanitized and voters can wear masks when they go to vote.

If the voter's only option is to vote in person on November 3, they should try to vote as early as possible on that day, as lines could likely be very long.

So, there are several options which voters have to be able to vote. Please vote.

CNW recommendations for the presidential/general elections are as follows:

U.S. PRESIDENT/VICE PRESIDENT

District 21 Lois Frankel (DEM) Incumbent Congresswoman Frankel has also been a very focused, hardworking representative of Floridians. She serves on the important Appropriations Committee and co-chairs the Democratic Women's Caucus. Her top priorities include building credible systems to control pandemics, racial justice, climate change, police reform and strengthening Social Security and Medicare.

District 27 Donna Shalala (DEM) Incumbent The former president of the University of Miami, and Secretary of Health in the Bill Clinton administration has also justified her 2018 election to the House. She has readily absorbed herself in the flow of congressional procedures and has shown strong commitment to secure the welfare of her constituents.

Joe Biden/Kamala Harris (DEM) Joe Biden and Kamala Harris clearly represent the interests of Caribbean Americans.

Interests including positive and comprehensive immigration reform; nonbiased law enforcement; improving the criminal justice system; affordable comprehensive healthcare; stopping the spread of COVID-19; increasing the federal minimum wage; improving the national economy and creating more job opportunities; improving comprehensive health insurance as approved enhancing civil rights for minorities; streamlining the federal student loan system; more accessibility to affordable college education; expansion of paid family leave; improvement in the Social Security program. and a more secure society.

These are issues which were not addressed, or addressed adequately, by the incumbent Trump/Pence administration.

Moreover, no plans have been put forward by the administration that these issues will be addressed to comply with the interests of Caribbean Americans.

With some 46 years experience in the U.S. House, U.S. Senate and including eight years as vice-president to President Barack Obama, Joe Biden has the experience to pull America out of its current health and economic nose dive. He joined Obama in accomplishing a major economic recovery between 2008 and 2016, and will be joined in doing this by Senator Kamala Harris, a proven leader in the California justice system and the U.S. Senate.

The pulse of our community is not in line with the Trump/Pence administration governing selectively In his one term, Donald Trump has proven he is unsuitable to continue as president. He is the president of a base of supporters, but not all Americans. He has stubbornly refuted competent advice, notably as in the case of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moreover, his bigotry and divisive tendencies are not the suitable qualities of an American president.

US CONGRESS District 20 Alcee Hastings (DEM) Hastings, a focused, hardworking congressional representative should easily win his 15th term and continue to offer his dedicated veteran experience in congress.

District 22 Ted Deutch (DEM) Incumbent First elected to Congress in 2010, Deutch has consistently proven himself a committed Democratic, devoted to issues like gun control, affordable healthcare, improvement in Social Security and Medicare, raising the minimum wage and helping the lot of working families.

District 23 Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (DEM) Incumbent Wasserman-Schultz fights tirelessly for women issues, and social issues including child protection. She remains the best candidate to represent the district in the US Congress, and support the next president in fighting for immigration reform; increasing the minimum wage; job growth and expansion of comprehensive healthcare.

District 24 Fredericka Wilson (DEM) Incumbent The congresswoman remains one of the more courageous and strongest the strongest proponents for the cause of African and Caribbean Americans in the U.S. Congress.

She should be overwhelmingly re-elected.

District 26 Debbie Mucarsel Powell (DEM) Incumbent Facing a challenging race with Republican Carlos Giminez, former Miami-Dade Mayor Powell should be reelected to continue the service she began in 2018 in congress. She has proven to be an extremely committed representative for Floridians. Recently she pushed hard to ensure residents who lost their jobs to COVID-19 received unemployment assistance, and is currently fighting to ensure small business and residents are not unduly disadvantaged by the impact of the virus.

FLORIDA SENATE District 29 Tina Polsky (DEM) District 31 Lori Berman (DEM) District 35 Shevrin “Shev” Jones (DEM) District 37 Jose Javier Rodriquez (DEM) District 39 Javier Fernandez (DEM)

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES District 81 Kelly Skidmore (DEM) District 88 Omari Hardy (DEM) District 89 Jim Bonglio (DEM) District 91 Emily Ann Slosberg (DEM) Incumbent District 92 Patricia Williams-Hawkins (DEM) District 93 Linda Thompson Gonzalez (DEM) District 101 Marie Woodson (DEM) District 103 Cindy Polo (DEM) Incumbent District 104 Robin Bartleman (DEM)

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

B3

VOTER’S GUIDE District 105 Maureen Porras (DEM)

Supervisor of Elections Joe Scott (DEM)

District 106 Sara McFadden (DEM)

State Attorney Harold Pryor

District 110 Annette Collazo (DEM)

Public Defender Gordon Weekes

District 111 Ross Elde Hancock (DEM)

School Board – District 9 Jeff Holness

District 112 Xavier Nicholas Duran (DEM) Incumbent

COURT OF APPEAL JUDGES

District 114 Jean-Pierre Bado (DEM)

Fourth District Court of Appeal Shall Judge Alan O. Forst of the Fourth District Court of Appeal be retained in office?

VOTE: Yes

District 115 Francesca Cesti-Browne (DEM) District 116 Bob Lynch (DEM) District 118 Ricky Junquera (DEM) District 119 Imtiaz Ahmad Muhammad (DEM) District 120 Clint Barras (DEM)

BROWARD COUNTY County Commission District 7 Tim Ryan (DEM) Incumbent District 9 Dale Holness (DEM) Incumbent Circuit Judge Court 17 Group 16 George Odom Jr. County Sheriff Gregory Tony (DEM) Incumbent

Fourth District Court of Appeal Shall Judge Mark W. Klingensmith of the Fourth District Court of Appeal be retained in office? VOTE: Yes Fourth District Court of Appeal Shall Judge Martha C. Warner of the Fourth District Court of Appeal be retained in office?

VOTE: Yes County Referendum 1 Home Rule Charter Amendment For The Establishing Of An Independent Inspector General. VOTE: Yes County Referendum 2 Charter Amendment Regarding Elections to Fill Mayor or Commission Vacancies During Primary and General Elections (and not by a specially called election). VOTE: Yes County Referendum 3 Nonpartisan Election of County Sheriff, Property Appraiser, Tax Collector and Supervisor of Elections. VOTE: Yes Broward County Ballot Question Seeking Approval of Special Law CS/HB 989 (2020) Relating to The Functions of Broward County's Government. VOTE: Yes

Broward County Charter Question County Regulation to Facilitate implementation of the Development of Surtax-Funded Improvements to the County's transportation system. VOTE: Yes

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY MAYOR Daniella Levine Cava The former Miami-Dade Commissioner is seeking to emerge as the county's first female mayor but facing a strong challenge from Esteban Bovo. She, however, offers a muchneeded fresh perspective on the leadership of the myriad problems of this very diverse community seem to understand how to build bridges across the county as the effects from COVID-19 threatens its economic well being.

County Commission District 3 Gepsie M. Metellus District 5 Eileen Higgins District 7 Cindy Lerner

County Referendum 2 Charter Amendment Regarding Elections to Fill Mayor or Commission Vacancies During Primary and General Elections. VOTE: Yes County Referendum 3 Nonpartisan Election of County Sheriff, Property Appraiser, Tax Collector and Supervisor of Elections. VOTE: Yes DISTRICT COURT OF APPEAL JUDGES Shall Judge Monica Gordo of the 3rd District Court of Appeal be retained in office?

VOTE: Yes Shall Judge Eric William Hendon of the 3rd District Court of Appeal be retained in office?

VOTE: Yes Shall Judge Fleur Jeannine Lobree of the 3rd District Court of Appeal be retained in office?

VOTE: Yes Shall Judge Thomas Logue of the 3rd District Court of Appeal be retained in office?

VOTE: Yes Shall Judge Bronwyn Catherine Miller of the 3rd District Court of Appeal be retained in office? VOTE: Yes

District 9 Kion McGhee

PALM BEACH COUNTY

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER

County Commission

District 3 Lucia Baez-Geller

District 3 Dave Kerner (DEM)

District 5 Mara Zapata

District 5 Maria Sachs (DEM)

District 9 Dennis Moss

District 7 Mack Bernard (DEM)

County Referendum 1 Home Rule Charter Amendment Establishing Independent Inspector General VOTE: Yes

County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw (DEM) Circuit Judge 15th Judicial Circuit Group 30 – Jaimie Goodman

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

B5

VOTER’S GUIDE PORT OF PALM BEACH Group 3 – Jean L. Enright (DEM) Palm Beach Water & Soil Conservative Group 2 Ann Marie Sorrell Palm Beach Water & Soil Conservative Group 3 Nicholas T. O'Neal Palm Beach Water & Soil Conservative Group 4 Rob Long District Court of Appeal Judge Fourth District Court of Appeal Shall Judge Martha C. Warner of the Fourth District Court of Appeal be retained in office?

VOTE: Yes County Referendum 1 Home Rule Charter Amendment Establishing Independent Inspector General VOTE: Yes County Referendum 2 Charter Amendment Regarding Elections to Fill Mayor or Commission Vacancies During Primary and General Elections VOTE: Yes County Referendum 3 Nonpartisan Election of County Sheriff, Property Appraiser, Tax Collector and Supervisor of Elections. VOTE: Yes Florida Supreme Court Justice Shall Justice Carlos G. Muñiz of the Supreme Court be retained in office? VOTE: Yes

FLORIDA CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS No. 1 Constitutional Amendment Article VI, Section 2 Change Citizenship Requirement to Vote in Florida Elections VOTE: No

This amendment implies meaningless semantics. Whether the law says “Every citizen can vote” as it currently does, or “Only citizens can” as required by the amendment, it still means it is illegal for people who are not U.S. citizens cannot vote in Florida elections. There is no evidence given of noncitizens voting in Florida elections.

No. 2 Constitutional Amendment Article X, Section 24 Raising Florida's Minimum Wage to $10 per hour on September 30, 2021, and $1 per annum to a maximum of $15 on September 30, 2026. VOTE: Yes No. 3 Constitutional Amendment Article VI, Section 5 All Voters, Including Voters Registered as No Party Affiliation Vote in Primary Elections for Florida Legislature, Governor, and Cabinet VOTE: No Currently, Florida holds closed primaries.

This means voters are only allowed to vote in their own Party's primary election, and voters who are registered as having No Party Affiliation (NPA) are unable to vote at all in the primaries.

This amendment would open primary voting to anyone eligible to vote, regardless of party affiliation. Under the current system, the Democratic and Republican primary winners advance to the general election; however, if the amendment is approved, the two candidates who receive the most votes, irrespective of party affiliation, would advance. This means that two Democrats or two Republicans could face each other in the general election.

No. 4 Constitutional Amendment Article XI, Sections 5 and 7 Seeking Approval for Dual Votes to Approve Constitutional Amendments VOTE: No This amendment smacks of absolute government control, as it's calling for not one, but two votes by 60 percent of the electorate in two separate election for an amendment to

pass. So, potentially it would take a minimum of eight years for an amendment to be approved. Constitutional amendments are placed on ballots in a sense of urgency.

Waiting eight or more years for an amendment to pass is unrealistic and would kill most amendments.

No. 5 Constitutional Amendment Article VII, Section 4 and Article XII Limitations on Homestead Property Tax Assessments; increased by one year of portability period to transfer accrued benefit to homeowners selling one house and purchasing another.

VOTE: No At face value, this seems to be an amendment that offers a tax break to homeowners. But while some owners would benefit, if approved, the amendment would take much-need revenue away from cities and most likely result in increases in property taxes to take care of the shortfall.

No. 6 Constitutional Amendment Article VII, Section 6 and Article XII Homestead or Property Tax Discount for Spouses of Certain Deceased Veterans Who Had Permanent, Combat-related Disabilities VOTE: Yes While this amendment will also like reduce the tax revenue of local governments, it is arguable if the reduction will be so significant as to warrant increase in property taxes. It will, however, fairly provide what could be a much-needed benefit to the spouses of those who served the country and who may well be financially disadvantaged to these spouses who most likely would be in their senior years.

City of Hollywood Commission District 2 Linda Anderson Mayor, City of Lauderdale Lakes Hazelle Rogers City of Lauderdale Lakes Commission Seat 4 Karleen Maxwell Williams City of Lauderhill Commission Seat 1 Eric Reid City of Lauderhill Commission Seat 2 Richard Campbell City of Lauderhill Commission Seat 3 Ray Martin Mayor, City of North Lauderdale Ana Zaidie - Incumbent Mayor, City of Pompano Beach Rex Hardin – Incumbent Pompano Beach Commission District 4 Ed Phillips City of Plantation Council Group 3 Jennifer Andreu City of Sunrise Commission Seat D Jacqueline Guzman City of Tamarac Commission District 1 Marlon Bolton – Incumbent City of Tamarac Commission District 3 Jody Ann Wright CITY OF WEST PARK

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS City of Coral Springs Commission Seat 3 Nancy Metayer City of Delray Beach Commission Seat 2 Jennifer Jones

Mayor Christina Eveillard Commissioner District 3 Joy B. Smith

B6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

Open Late Restaurants and Bars Can Now Operate Until Midnight Broward County restaurants and bars are now permitted to serve food and/or alcohol up until midnight, effective immediately. The previous cut-off time was 11p.m.

The on-premises sale, service, and consumption of food and/or alcohol are prohibited between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m. Food preparation and food/alcohol delivery, drive-through and take-out services will also cut off at midnight.

The new Emergency Order 20-28 also prohibits alcohol consumption in open containers or to-go cups remains prohibited in public spaces such as beaches, beach boardwalks, parks, streets, parking lots and other areas identified in the order.

All buffet-style food or salad bars must be served by staff. Selfservice buffets and salad bars are prohibited. Establishments licensed to serve food may only operate at greater than 50 percent and up to 100 percent of indoor capacity if the establishment maintains 6 feet of distance between occupied tables at all times; limits parties to no more than six people at a table at any one time; and ensures that people wear facial coverings at all times except when actively eating or drinking.

Social distancing and facial covering requirements, restaurant capacity limits and sanitation and safety requirements to prevent the spread of COVID-19 remain in effect.

B7

Leaders Focus On Turning Out Caribbean Americans Votes

O

n October 17, Caribbean American voters and community leaders came together in a Zoom nonpartisan event aimed at maximizing Caribbean-American voter turnout in the 2020 presidential election.

The event featured several CaribbeanAmerican political leaders who provided attendees with information re voting procedure, election protection resources, and the overall impact the CaribbeanAmerican community can have on the election and beyond.

There are over an estimated 4.4 million Caribbean Americans who are eligible to vote in the election and, with increased turnout, the community can help swing results in key states like Florida, Georgia, and Pennsylvania.

“As Caribbean young leaders, we understand the importance of voting in any election and felt it necessary to host this get out the vote (GOTV) webinar to encourage our Caribbean-American brothers and sisters to exercise their right to make their voices heard. We know this is an important election and there are many items on the ballot that impact our Caribbean-American community. It's important for us to arm voters with all the information they need to make informed decisions.” said Mona-Lee Belizaire, host committee member.

Caribbean-American Congresswoman Yvette Clarke pointed out 2020 is a critical year for democracy and the CaribbeanAmerican community. With issues like immigration, health care, and more at stake, no member of the community can afford to sit this election out. “If just a few thousand people decide to sit this one out, we are risking sacrificing our democracy.

As we continue to show up at the polls, show we have a voice and will shape our democracy, we will be heard… your voices matter… As my mother would say, 'we nah goin no place'… you have been given an opportunity to shape this nation.”

“We have a unique opportunity as Caribbean Americans. We are going from the group that is little talked about and now we have a real opportunity where that is changing” said Melissa Noel, awardwinning journalist.

“We are largely ignored or only tapped as we get closer to Election Day. That has changed because we have someone of Caribbean descent making history on the ballot, but we need to think beyond the election. We build political power as a community when we serve in leadership roles within the political parties, form Caribbean commissions in our states, and put money and time into the candidates who represent our interests” said Joanne Antoine, host committee member.

“We have to have more collaboration. … We have to communicate more and we need to deliver. What does deliver look like… Are you donating money to the campaign you believe in? Are you volunteering, phone banking and text banking during this COVID-19 period?

And are you voting?” asked Marlon Hill, Miami Attorney.

With less than 2 weeks until Election Day, Caribbean-American voters and others throughout the country have or will start voting shortly.

Caribbean American voters were cautioned it could take longer to count the votes and verify a winner in this year's election.

“We should anticipate that in many swing states like Florida, Pennsylvania, and Georgia that we will not see results on election night. We should also anticipate litigation” said Michele Jawando, Google.

“Don't be scared… if you voted early or by mail, you can go on your local board of election site and track your ballot.”

B8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 TRAVEL. LIFESTYLE. CUISINE.

JAMAICA PEGASUS

REDEFINING

WORK FROM W HOME How Kingston's premier business hotel, restructured its operations to remove the connement of working from home, and take a well earned vacation even while carrying out their work responsibility.

“Success in business today is largely predicated on a corporation's ability to remain nimble and flexible. Telecommuting, mobile and remote work are more important now than ever before. The Jamaica Pegasus' Co[ME] Work program effectively meets the challenges and opportunities presented by the new normal of today's business world, helping to keep Jamaica moving forward.”

– Oliver Mair Jamaica Consulate General in Miami

orking from home creates a new problem—cabin fever, or the feeling of abject confinement in the limited space of the home. Thanks to modern technology and Wi-Fi connectivity, work-from-home does not necessarily mean work at home.

Many people are desirous of getting away to somewhere safe from the virus, but offering a new refreshing scene, while they continue to work on their job assignments.

Recently in Jamaica, the Jamaica Pegasus, Kingston's premier business hotel,

Named one of “The Top 52 Places to Go in 2017” by The New York Times, and recently designated as a “Creative City of Music” by UNESCO, Kingston shines among the most dynamic, exciting, and culturally significant cities in the Americas. Known historically as a key center of trade in the West Indies, Kingston carries a renewed sense of vitality today, its renowned fashion scene, pulsating nightlife, celebrated gastronomy, and attractions fueling a renaissance in the largest predominantly English-speaking city south of the United States.

LOG ON TO

restructured its operations to best meet the needs of workers who want to get away from the confinement of working from home, including those who would like to travel and take a well earned vacation even while carrying out their work responsibility.

With this twin objective the Jamaica Pegasus has launched two new for visitors.

The first package is the Co[ME] Work package that target work-from-home professionals and students who could benefit from an elegant, resort-style change of scenery to spice-up their typical workday. Co[ME] Work packages include the private use of guest rooms converted into office suites, with desks and conference tables replacing the hotel's legendarily comfortable beds.

Jamaica Pegasus Co[ME] Work packages can be booked by the day, the week (seven days), in 10 day periods, or on a monthly (30 days) basis at very attractive discounted rates.

A four-hour option is also available. Co[ME] Work office suites can accommodate one professional or a group of up to four. All office suites include desks, small conference tables, high-speed Wi-Fi internet service, sofa or love seat, mini-fridge, coffee machine, hot water kettle, bottled water, flat screen TV, and private restrooms.

Oliver Mair, Jamaica Consulate General in Miami, commented on the new Jamaica Pegasus initiatives, saying: “Success in business today is largely predicated on a corporation's ability to remain nimble and flexible.

Telecommuting, mobile and remote work are more important now than ever before. The Jamaica Pegasus' Co[ME] Work program effectively meets the challenges and opportunities presented by the new normal of today's business world, helping to keep Jamaica moving forward.”

Guests taking advantage of Jamaica Pegasus Co[ME] Work packages also enjoy access to the hotel's fitness center, spa, tennis courts, pool, restaurants, bar, and larger meeting facilities. Added fees apply.

“For Jamaicans that work from home, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and students, as well as international travelers visiting Jamaica, our Co[ME] Work packages provide a welcome, stimulating new environment where

DISCOVER JAMAICA

BY BIKE Tourism Officials Endorse Cycling Association's New Wellness Initiative

they can focus and pursue professional or academic goals in style and removed from the distractions of home,” noted Mrs. Nicola Madden-Greig, group director of marketing and sales. “The packages are also ideal for those in the Jamaican Diaspora based overseas who may need a professional space to carry out some business in the course of enjoying an extended visit with family.”

The other package, particularly relevant to U.S. workers who are eager to get away is the hotel's Workation program, which invites the working visitor to experience the best of of daily life in Kingston by staying and working at the Jamaica Pegasus on a monthly basis.

Workation packages carry a 30-night minimum stay and start at US$3,499 monthly, including all taxes—a savings of 70 percent off regular published rates.

“Taken together, our Co[ME] Work and Workation packages offer two great options for anyone who can work from anywhere to take their careers to new heights in style in Jamaica,” added Madden-Greig.

The Jamaica Pegasus is located within convenient distance of Kingston's prime commercial center, as well as such noted attractions as Devon House, The Bob Marley Museum, and Emancipation Park, allowing guests to do business and enjoy the best of Kingston with ease.

What started out as a local event to pilot a consumer cycling program will officially become a bookable experience in 2021 known as Discover Jamaica By Bike.

The test ride, which was organized and led by the Jamaica Cycling Association, got underway in Port Antonio and saw riders including Jamaica's Director of Tourism Donovan White making the trek through Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril, South Coast and ending in Kingston.

Discover Jamaica by Bike kicked off with a press conference at Goblin Hill in Port Antonio, before participants hit the road for the scenic test ride which had its first stop in Ocho Rios. Portions of the itinerary take participants through the Resilient Corridors highlighting the rolling hills, beaches and many towns along the way that make Jamaica such a unique destination. Video was captured along the way with highlights of the first leg, showcasing riders departing from Goblin Hill Villas and ending at Jamaica Inn in Ocho Rios. Commentary on the day's ride was provided by White, who was the first speaker and Dennis Chung, recreational cyclist the second speaker.

The new experience is part of a larger initiative rooted in developing physically distanced outdoor activities, with a wellness focus, that allows visitors to embrace the island's natural beauty.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

C1

Celebrating cuisine and culture for a virtual event on

National

Jamaican Jerk Day

With most mega events canceled this year, producers of the Florida, New York, and Canada Grace Jamaican Jerk Festivals, along with Orlando and Palm Beach festivals are taking their celebration to you with a virtual festival to mark October 25, 2020, National Jamaican Jerk Day - USA. Event organizers have been working nonstop to deliver an exciting virtual experience for jerk lovers around the globe, featuring live performances, cultural presentations and interactive cooking segments.

June Minto, Jerk Cook-off coordinator, is especially excited about the impact this year's unique festival is expected to have.

“Through this virtual event, we are able to reach a larger market,” says Minto. “Usually, our jerk festivals are staged in one city but now it's going to be streamed worldwide and so many more people can participate by creating their own jerk dishes, voting on our cooking competitions and, of course, tuning in to our live-streamed event on the 25th of October.”

Minto has planned a number of culinary activities—some which are already underway, such as the exciting Publix Jerk Showdown and 'Dine with Jerk,' with participating restaurants in New York and Florida offering specials on jerk dishes up to National Jamaican Jerk Day. On the day of the event, there will be cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs including Chef Andre Fowles and Chef Irie. Viewers are

Chef Irie

Jody Ann Gray

Chef Max Hardy

Noah Powa

encouraged to participate by cooking their own dishes as they celebrate Jerk Day. The Publix Chef Showdown features six chefs—from Canada, New York, Atlanta and Baltimore—in three contests where two chefs at a time create their dishes and are judged based on the ingredients and the presentation. Chef Max Hardy of Baltimore and Chef Eddie G of New York are still up for votes. Viewers get to choose the winner on jamaicanjerkday.com and also get a chance to win Publix gift cards.

In addition, says Minto, there will be highlights of culinary competitions featuring TV personalities, celebrity chefs, professional athletes, and prominent elected officials who have participated in jerk festivals over the years.

But this historical National Jamaican Jerk Day celebration will include so much more than jerk cuisine, it will also showcase Jamaica's deep cultural traditions.

Cultural coordinator Bridget Edwards says the theme for the cultural component is “Nanny of the Maroons.” Nanny, Jamaica's

only female national hero, was a military strategist and a master of guerilla warfare. But the Maroons are not only known for their military prowess, they are revered for creating the authentic underground method of jerking meat.

“It was ingenious how they cooked their food underground, communicated by drumming and camouflaged themselves in the bush to keep themselves safe and to defeat the British colonizers,” says Edwards, explaining that it was important to cook their food underground so the smoke would not give away their location.

Reflecting on the theme, Edwards says it came quickly and she believes that “Nanny intervened on her own behalf, because everything just fell into place. When we work on heroes … it sounds weird to say it … but they come. They are a part of it. Lliterally. The spirit of Nanny is in it.”

Actress Maxine Osborne will play the role of Nanny, appearing several times throughout the presentation on Jerk Day. “Nanny will be coming back from the past as a force who comes to reassure her people of

their ingenuity, resistance and resilience because she knows about the struggles we face and how to overcome these adversities,” says Edwards. She also believes in these trying times, we all could all benefit by channeling the wisdom and warrior spirit of Nanny as we face the challenges of 2020 head on.

The virtual event, hosted by Jody Ann Gray and Noah Powa, will also include highlights of past performances as well as live cultural presentations and be streamed live from the Miramar Amphitheater, home of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in Florida.

So mark your calendars, grab your ingredients and prepare for an exciting day of jerk goodness, cultural upliftment and riveting entertainment.

LOG ON TO

C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

C3

LA SECTION HAITIENNE

Rodney Pepe-Souvenir Haitian American Lawyer Sworn in as NYC Democratic Board of Elections Commissioner Rodney Pepe-Souvenir, a Haitian-American public interest lawyer, has been sworn in as the Democratic Board of Elections commissioner.

New York State Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, who represents the 42nd Assembly District in Brooklyn, recently said that Pepe-Souvenir was sworn in after a near unanimous vote by the New York City Council.

Ten commissioners are appointed from the five boroughs in New York City—Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, Staten Island and the Bronx.

“As an advocate of election reform, I know PepeSouvenir, a public interest lawyer, will lead the Board of Elections in a positive and more transparent direction,” Bichotte said, adding that she had nominated her for the position.”

– Rodneyse Bichotte NY State Assemblywoman “As recent events showed us, it is more important than ever that we oversee the selection and award of contracts to vendors.

“I believe Pepe-Souvenir will help vet that process. The new commissioner's other goals are to improve language access for voters, promote an efficient electoral process, ensure polling stations are well-staffed and prevent long lines on election day from occurring and suppressing votes, especially in traditionally underrepresented areas.

Pepe-Souvenir

“I congratulate the commissioner on her appointment and look forward to seeing these changes effected under her term,” Bichotte said.

Pepe-Souvenir, who currently serves as president of the Haitian American Lawyers Association of New York (HALANY), is an experienced attorney who began her career in New York, where she focused on public interest law.

She first served as an Assistant District Attorney in Kings County, and then as a Special Assistant Corporation Counsel with the city's Administration for Children's Services.

Pepe-Souvenir is also the University Title IX Director with the City University of New York (CUNY) having worked in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) office of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) investigating complaints of discrimination and sexual harassment, and training FDNY personnel and emergency management technicians (EMTs) in Equal Employment Opportunity matters.

Most recently, Pepe-Souvenir worked as an Affirmative Action Administrator with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

Pepe-Souvenir said she is “committed to working” in her local Haitian American community on such issues as mentoring of young people, and working with local elected officials and churches in providing legal information and support.

Opposition Parties in Haiti Renew Calls for Moïse to Step Down

Opposition politicians Monday said they have no intention of collaborating with President Jovenel Moïse as they staged protest demonstrations in the Haitian capital over the last weekend, calling for him to step down.

The demonstrations coincided with the 214th anniversary of the October 17, 1806 assassination of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, which President Moïse used to reiterate earlier calls for unity and the need for all parties to come together to ensure a brighter socio-economic future for the country.

“I laid down a wreath at the Haitian National Pantheon Museum (MUPANAH), to honor the memory of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the founding Father of our Homeland. An act that renews our faith in the legacy he bequeathed to us.

“Haiti needs tolerance, peace and stability. In this circumstance, let us join forces, let us forget our quarrels,' Moïse added, urging closer collaboration 'in order to guarantee a better country for future generations”.

“The failure to resolve our political differences resulted in the assassination of the Founder of our Homeland, resulting in a divided country. Today, the past invites us to act differently to resolve our differences. This is the best tribute to Emperor Dessalines.”

Moïse stayed away from Pont-Rouge, the site of the Dessalines assassination so as not to provoke the opposition parties that had declared last Saturday a day of general anti-government mobilization to demand his resignation.

But several opposition leaders, including André Michel, leader of the socalled “democratic and popular” movement, who participated in the weekend protests, told reporters “we are on the way to the transition.

“There will be no elections with Jovenel Moïse in power, nor cohabitation.

His constitutional mandate ends on February 7, 2021,” he added Michel said that President Moïse would do better to pack his bags and leave the National Palace, adding “his term will end in three months, but the people will not wait three months to demand his departure.”

Former opposition legislator, Nenel Cassy, who has also called for Moïse to step down, said “we are not going to listen to the announcements, promises or demands of Jovenel Moïse.

“He never tells the truth. We have to listen to the people who want another team and another system,” he added.

Police reported that over the last weekend, the opposition parties under the banner, “Directorate of the opposition” that included the Fusion of the social democrats, Christian Movement for a new Haiti (MOCHRENAH), Organization of the People in Struggle (OPL), led thousands of demonstrators in the streets of the capital and in some provincial towns demanding Moïse's departure.

The authorities said that barricades of burning tyres were erected in several places in the capital with demonstrators also breaking windows, vandalizing cars and throwing stones and bottles.

The Haitian National Police (PNH) used tear gas to disperse the protestors and eyewitnesses said unidentifiable, masked and heavily armed individuals were seen throughout the protest.

Haiti's legislative elections were due in October last year and as a result, Moïse is ruling by decree. There is currently a debate as to when the elections are due with the last being held in 2015.

Moïse last month installed the ninemember Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) after a divided Haitian Supreme Court opted not to swear them into office.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020

Hunger Pandemic 13.7 million over the course of 2020.

“COVID-19 has placed the region's food insecurity in the spotlight. As countries slowly embark on post COVID-19 recovery plans, we must be mindful and fiercely guard against a hunger pandemic,” CARDI said, warning that “as rebuilding efforts continue it is important that plans are grounded in improving productivity, access and availability to safe, nutritious food, climate proofing the sector and preventing food wastage”.

CARDI said it was working on several initiatives to improve regional food and nutrition security and is continuing to leverage its extensive network of regional and national partners to ensure the agriculture sector is productive, resilient and sustainable.

“We remain supportive of governments initiatives which target vulnerable households to expand and improve emergency food

assistance and social protection programs,” CARDI said, adding that ongoing evaluation trials for key commodities such as roots and tubers, herbs and spices, coconuts and small ruminants are geared towards improving the quality and availability of planting materials and introducing new technologies and practices for boosting productivity.

It said that resilience, continues to be a priority area to guarantee impacted countries and communities quickly recover from climate related shocks.

“Evaluations on drought tolerance and other resilient high yielding varieties are ongoing in Jamaica and other territories.

Complementing this work are focused efforts on preserving and safeguarding local agrobiodiversity.

“Availability and affordability to nutritious food must be a pillar in all countries

Maurice Bishop the families and victims of October 19,1983.

There has been closure for the perpetrators, they have been freed, they are living their best lives,” said Marryshow.

“A lot of innocent Grenadians were gun down, some lost a limb, lost an eye and they continue to suffer. Up to this day, we are still no closer in term of getting what will lead to the recovery of the remains of Maurice Bishop and his cabinet colleagues who died.

“We know what happened up to a point, the onus is now on the Americans to come forward and tell us what they have done with the remains,” said Marryshow, who is of the firm belief that identifying the missing remains of Bishop and his cabinet colleague will not only bring closure for their families but the entire nation.

The Foundation once again held its annual ecumenical service at Fort George in memory of those who died when soldiers of the People's Revolutionary Army (PRA) opened fire on demonstrators who had just freed Bishop from

Buju Rant

from A4

from A4

house arrest.

Bishop, along with some of his cabinet ministers, including Norris Bain, the father of current Culture and Sports Minister Yolande Bain-Horsford, and an unknown number of people died during that was termed a palace coup staged by Coard.

Coard was among 17 persons who were convicted for the killings. They have since been released from prison after serving time following a re-sentencing in 2007 ordered by the London-based Privy Council. Coard's Jamaican-born wife, Phyllis, who was also jailed, died in Jamaica last month.

The long awaited report into the events by the South African-style Commission has been submitted to the Grenada Parliament but the events of 37 years ago continue to split Grenadian society.

LOG ON TO

FREE

development plans. In Belize, yield trials are ongoing to identify and select the most adaptable bio fortified beans. These beans will be useful in delivering much needed micronutrients to lower income families, where nutritional needs are largely unmet across the Caribbean.”

CARDI said its vision is to have a food secure region.

“We view this as a shared responsibility and CARDI remains committed to working with all stakeholders to improve the region's selfsufficiency whilst, exploiting our full production potential in a sustainable manner” says CARDI's executive director, Barton Clarke.

World Food Day 2020 was observed under the theme “Grow, nourish, sustain. Together.

Our actions are our future.”

Golding

from A4

In the meantime, Golding's opponent, Lisa Hanna said she will not be launching any “bank-breaking” campaign for the presidency.

“I want a practical, pragmatic, compassionate campaign, which is relevant to the times that we are living in. Because it would be audacious, it would actually be almost obscene, if I was spending the kind of exorbitant money on running a very glitzy campaign… Mi a tell you dat straight. I cyaan find it in me,” said Hanna.

Her comments came one day after Golding's campaign launch.

Both presidential aspirants have received the delegates list to be used in the November 7 internal polls, which will be conducted by the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ).

Just over a year ago, 2,778 delegates voted in the leadership contest featuring Dr. Peter Phillips and former Manchester Central Member of Parliament Peter Bunting, in which Phillips hung on to his leadership.

from A1

because unuh going… First and foremost, Jamaicans unuh sell unuh vote enuh. And from unuh sell unuh vote, unuh nah nuh sense.

And in the last video on the topic, Banton declared that his love for Jamaicans “supersedes all that this world has to offer.”

He assured too, that he would not join other entertainers in ‘tricking them.’

In continuing, he affirmed: “I will not lead you down a path of destruction. I have always been sincere and true to you my people. A lot of people are benefitting by leading people down that path that is totally destructive here in Jamaica, here in America.”

Meanwhile, several social media users voiced their disagreement with the views expressed by Banton, including his daughters, Abihail and Jodian Myrie.

Jodian, who is the Jamaica Labour Party caretaker for East Central St. Andrew, tweeted: “Let us all as Jamaicans play our part in flattening this curve by continuing to wear our masks and practicing social distancing! Follow the protocols set in place to protect not only your life, but the lives of your loved ones.”

Other social media users scolded Buju Banton for his view that urged persons to not adhere to mask-wearing, a key part of the COVID-19 prevention protocols. They also called out his hypocrisy in selling masks as merchandise on his website.

But amid the uproar, Banton has been supported by other Jamaican entertainers, including Chi Ching Ching and Spragga Benz. Both commented under the artist’s Instagram videos.

Since March, Jamaica has recorded over 8000 cases of the virus, with just over 4000 being placed among the recovered and 174 deaths. Meanwhile, 40.9 Million persons have contracted the virus worldwide, with 30.6 million of that total having recovered. The data also shows that over 1.1 million persons have died as a result of complications brought on by the virus.

SISTER ALBERTA GOD GIFTED SPIRITUAL ADVISOR & LIFE COACH Live Life Without the Problems that are Blocking your Inner Peace & Joy.

Are you having problems, worried, unhappy, separated from the one that you love?

Call for immediate results.

321.443.7532

I can and will bring back, the one that you love, control his/her mind. Call enemies by name. I remove all unnatural sickness, bad luck and negativity from your life. Also control immigration and legal problems.

Jealous people Can Set You Back & Block You From Obtaining Your Goals More Than You Will Ever Know.

Sister Alberta has Over 30 Years of Experience in Solving All Troubles of Life Such As Generation Curses, Evil Influence, Sickness, Reuniting loved ones, etc,

One Call Will Truly Convince You About Her God Given Gift.

954-770-0984 All Readings & Spiritual Cleanings are dobe in the privacy of here home in Broward 100% Guaranteed.

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

Wolmer's Alumni To Host Covid-19 Relief Telethon

A HERO’S BURIAL Toots to be Buried at National Heroes Park

the family of our dear Charles Hyatt had requested he be buried in National Heroes Park, but they were told there were no more spaces available. He was instead interred at the Meadowrest Memorial Park in St. Catherine.”

The Culture Minister said it was later discovered there was one final burial space available in the relevant section at National Heroes Park and the government went back to the family who decided they would exhume Mr. Hyatt's remains and re-inter them in National Heroes Park.

She added that in light of the current need for a suitable burial place for the late Toots Hibbert – “The Hyatt family has generously consented to allow the Reggae legend to be interred in the final burial spot in the section for cultural icons in National Heroes Park.”

“I have received the approval of Prime Minister Andrew Holness, to proceed with plans for the interment of Toots Hibbert in National Heroes Park. I deeply appreciate the consideration of the Hyatt family in this matter,” Grange said.

Hibbert, one of the pioneers of reggae music, has also been credited with giving the genre its name.

“He is a national treasure whose humble demeanor and affable personality belied his

Jamaica's Culture Minister Olivia Grange, has announced Reggae legend, Fredrick “Toots” Hibbert, will be laid to rest in National Heroes Park.

The thanksgiving service for the internationally acclaimed reggae star, leader of the group Toots and the Maytals, was held on Thursday but the internment was halted abruptly when the family discovered they were not in possession of the burial order.

According to Grange, the burial at National Heroes Park is possible due to the generosity of the family of the late Charles Hyatt, the actor, broadcaster, director and author, whose remains were due to be re-interred in the last remaining burial spot for cultural icons at National Heroes Park.

“At the time of his death in January 2007,

SAFARI

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING, INC. Monday-Friday 8:30am-6pm Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm

Avoid the hassle and long wait.

For your convenience we will also clear customs for you at a minimal fee!

D1

Safari CARES! Now offering

Open

7 days

*All statutory fees will still apply and has to be paid. A valid ID, TRN and Power of Attorney are required

Packaging and Creating service available.

Door To Door service in Jamaica Special package for returning resident.

3790 NW 16th St. Lauderhill, FL 33311

954-581-4655 4711 N. Australian Ave. WPB, FL 33407

561-844-2820

towering global stature,” Grange noted.

She said that the internment in National Heroes Park will suitably memorialize his contribution to Jamaica and reignite the unity in his family, among his peers and his fans which is required at this time.

The Culture Minister also endorsed plans to erect a monument to Toots in his hometown, adding that the current situation has highlighted the need for the establishment of a Memorial Park for the interment of Jamaica's Cultural Icons.

“We started work on the establishment of this Memorial Park in the Bruce Golding Administration. So far, we have developed a concept, identified a location where the relevant tests, including soil testing, have been completed. We will now move to develop the designs and budget to present a detailed proposal to the Cabinet. I commit to ensuring that the late Charles Hyatt is memorialised in the proposed park,” Grange said.

Toots died at the University Hospital of the West Indies on September 11, nearly two weeks after he tested positive for COVID-19.

Among the other cultural icons interred at the National Heroes' Park are reggae singer Dennis Brown, Olympian Herb McKinley, artist Edna Manley, folklorist Louise Bennett Coverley (Miss Lou) and actor Ranny Williams.

The Wolmer's Alumni Covid-19 Relief Telethon, scheduled for Sunday, October 25, is aimed at raising funds to assist students that are facing major financial challenges associated with virtual learning.

The event will feature celebrities and other prominent members of the Wolmer's community.

Wolmer's is the only certified Microsoft and Google campus with certified teachers in Jamaica. The goal is not only to continue to advance technologically, but to leverage and expand resources to assist two primary schools in the area—Allman Town and Central Branch Primary Schools. Proceeds will be allocated to provide support for virtual and hybrid learning; resources for families to obtain access to reliable internet and mobile devices; assistance for increased cost of utilities (light, water, food, etc.) as students work from home; and assistance to frontline parents with younger schoolaged children.

This collaborative Alumni event scheduled from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. EDT, will be broadcast/live streamed from TVJ in Jamaica, South Florida, Atlanta, Maryland and Canada via www.wolmers.org and multiple platforms.

Hosted by Wolmerians Norma BrownBell and Francois St. Juste from Jamaica; Dr. Chris “Sarge” Parker out of Atlanta, Jason Skywalker, Tricia Chung Foster and Fabian Lyon from South Florida, the Wolmer's Alumni Covid-19 Relief Telethon promises to be an evening of enhanced Wolmer's pride, fun entertainment, favorite memories and renewed connections.

This event will be highlighted by performances from Wolmerians Johnny McFarlane, Parry Hinds, former drummer of Third World, Willie Stewart, international reggae/dancehall artists Valton “VC” Craigie and Wayne Marshall, featuring popular deejays such as DJ Squeeze, Boyd James, and DJ Narity.

REDUCED PRICES! to help you through these difcult times Ship to Kingston or Montego Bay, Jamaica for only $45 per barrel Offer subject to change without notice.

45

$

D2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020

Hilary Creary, P.A. FL Supreme Court Family Mediator Adoption Divorce Restraining Orders Modification of Final Judgments Parental Rights Paternity Pre-Nuptial Agreements Guardian Ad Litem Establishment and Enforcement of Timesharing Schedules

1995 East Oakland Park Blvd., Ste. 300, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306

Hilary Creary, Esq. hilarycreary@hcpalegal.com www.hcpalegal.com

954.366.7939

Hurricane/Property Damage

Palm Beach County’s #1 Funeral & Cremation Provider to the Caribbean Community Tel: 561.557.4739

FL Supreme Court Family Mediator Shama Rhoden

Kilon Rhoden

Chief Executive Officer

Family Care Coordinator

Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer

lakesidefuneralcare.com

BANKRUPTCY - FORECLOSURE DEFENSE

3350 SW 148th Avenue, Suite 110, Miramar, FL 33027

The Basement Hair Salon

Immigration Credit Restoration Real Estate Civil & Business Litigation

D&S LAW GROUP P.A ELIAS LEONARD DSOUZA, ESQ. www.DsouzaLegalGroup.com

Email: dtdlaw@aol.com

8751 W. Broward Blvd St 301, Plantation FL 33324

SHOP: 754-200-5090 SHELLY: 754-234-2045

Free Initial Consultation

Payment Plans Available

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement.

Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

Juice

2560 N. State Road 7. Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313

SEWING LACE BRAIDING CUT WASH & CURL BONDING RELAXER NAILS ...AND MORE

Located in the Dutch Pot Plaza Next to the Laundromat

Wheels Tires & Service New & Used Tires Tire Rotation & Balance 4 Wheel Alignment Full Brakes Service 3653 NW 19th Street Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33311 www.JuiceWheelsAndTires.com

954.486.2252 / 954.486.2219

The Community Network We’re Now

LOOKING FOR

Skilled, Reliable, Professional Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Home Health Aides (HHAs) Competitive Rates Hourly and Live-In Male and Female

Licensed, Bonded Insured

Tri-County Nurse Registry

954.382.1932 CommunityNetworkPlantation@gmail.com

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 22 – OCT 28, 2020 –

D3

Moment of Truth T&T FA President Ready to Quit FIFA Fight if Appeal Goes Against Him Beleaguered Trinidad and Tobago FA president William Wallace says if FIFA wins next week's court appeal he will not pursue any further legal challenges against football's powerful world governing body.

High Court Judge Carol Gobin earlier this week ruled in Wallace's favor regarding FIFA's appointment of a normalization committee to replace Wallace and his administration.

But the Court of Appeal is now set to hear a challenge from FIFA next Monday over the Gobin's jurisdiction to hear the matter and Wallace said if the judgement did not come down in his favor, he would end his long-running battle with the Zurich-based organization.

“If we lose this matter, that's it for me. There is no more appealing,” Wallace said in an interview on WESN Content Capital TV. “I [would] say 'thank you very much' and I walk away. There is nothing like that (appealing to the Privy Council). I have no intention of going beyond our court.”

Justice Gobin ruled against FIFA noting the normalization committee installed last March and headed by Trinidadian businessman Robert Hadad, “was unwarranted and indefensible”.

“If we lose this matter, that's it for me.

There is no more appealing. I [would] say 'thank you very much' and I walk away.

There is nothing like that (appealing to the Privy Council). I have no intention of going beyond our court.” – Wallace

In a huge victory for Wallace and his team, Gobin also ruled that FIFA's actions had been “made in bad faith and for an improper and illegal motive.”

Despite the victory for United TTFA, Trinidad and Tobago remain under international suspension by FIFA due to Wallace's decision to pursue action against the world governing body in the local courts.

Wallace has challenged that decision before the Court of Arbitration of Sport, and hopes the matter can be heard soon, in the best interests of Trinidad and Tobago football.

“There is still the matter we have before the Court of Arbitration, that matter there I hope can be heard. I hope we can hear that matter, I think we have a good chance,” he stressed.

Trinidad and Tobago were last month included in CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifying slated for next year, despite the imposition of the FIFA ban.

However, continental governing body CONCACAF said unless the FIFA ban was lifted by December 18, T&T would be replaced in the competition by Antigua and Barbuda.

Wallace said he was cognizant of the important timelines involved in the matter.

“I hope we can get it (CAS hearing) as early as possible because we've got to be always thinking about the 18th of December which is extremely important to us, so everything that happens now we must bear that in mind,” Wallace pointed out.

Jamaican Kevon Lambert’s First Goal Puts Phoenix in USL Conference Final Jamaican Kevon Lambert scored his first goal of the season in a sterling performance as Phoenix Rising FC defeated hosts Reno 1868 FC in a penalty shootout to reach the Western Conference final of the United Soccer League on Saturday night.

After scores were locked 2-2 following two periods of added extra time at Greater Nevada Field, Phoenix put away all five of their spot kicks, with their goalkeeper Zac Lubin then saving the all-important fifth from Reno's Aidan Apodaca.

Lubin, whose blunder led to Reno's opening goal, praised Lambert for a special performance.

Lambert

“He was flying around everywhere, making huge challenges and he deserved that first goal,” Lubin said.

“He was a guy who I think put the team on his back and said 'we're going to win this.”

Playing without their leading scorer, Jamaican Junior Flemmings who is serving a controversial ban, Phoenix found themselves staring at elimination, down 2-0 after 40 minutes.

Corey Hertzog was gifted the opening goal in the sixth minute when Lubin mistakenly passed the ball into his path in the penalty area, for the 30-year-old forward to tap in from close range.

And when Kevin Partida finished off a busy move by Reno also from close range, the hosts had taken a stranglehold on the game.

Phoenix's revival began in injury time when

Lambert pulled one back for the hosts to offer them a lifeline at the break.

A blocked shot fell to the 23-year-old's feet and he maintained his composure from five yards to beat goalkeeper Benjamin Beaury.

Solomon Asante then grabbed the equalizer in the 71st minute but neither team could find the winner in regular time.

Phoenix will now face El Paso Locomotive FC in the conference final next Saturday at Casino Arizona Field after the Texas franchise beat New Mexico United also on penalties at home at Southwest University Park.

There was disappointment, however, for Jamaican teenager Nicque Daley, Bermudian winger Zeiko Lewis and Trinidad and Tobago's Leland Archer as their Charleston Battery went down 1-0 to Tampa Bay Rowdies at Al Lang Stadium in St Petersburg.

D4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCT 15 – OCT 21, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T