July 19, 2023

A COMMUNITY

For a solution imposed on SecretaryGeneral by the Security Council as situation becomes desperate

Page 4

JAMAICA

JILL STEWART PASSES

Wife

Sandals resort Chairman Adam Stewart dies after a year-long battle with cancer

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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

PM WILL PAY EXTRA FOR COPS WITH INTEGRITY

PM Rowley- because there are too many criminals in the police service, willing to pay more for good cops

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SHERYL LEE RALPH WOMEN SELF CARE A PRIORITY

Must nourish the body and mind and lift the spirits

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CTO

DONA REGIS-PROSPER TO HEAD CTO

The St. Lucian becomes first female Secretay-General of CTO of 25 countries

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THE

MIGHTY

Dr. Slinger Francisco the undisputed King of Calypso is stll going strong as TUCO pays him special honor

of

Biden-Harris Administration Launches $2.2 Billion Relief Initiative to Support Black Farmers

by Stacy Brown - P 9

AFRICA WORLD BRIEFS

Bringing a war criminal to justice

On 30 July 2010, armed members of the militia Nduma Défense of Congo (NDC) fanned out across 13 remote villages in restive, resource-rich Walikale, the largest territory in North Kivu, 150 kilometres west of the provincial capital of Goma.

Situated within a large equatorial forest, the area had been plagued by two decades of conflict, with myriad armed groups fighting to control lucrative mines, including those extracting tin’s primary mineral, cassiterite.

The then 34-year-old Mr. Sheka – a former miner who founded a year earlier what Goma’s chief military prosecutor called the area’s “most organized” armed group, complete with units, brigades, battalions, and companies – had given his orders.

SPORTS

Concacaf

For four days and nights, his recruits discharged them. “Sheka wasn’t just anyone,” Nadine Sayiba Mpila, the lawyer representing civil parties in the case, told UN News. “Sheka committed crimes on a scale never seen in DR Congo.” She described how his soldiers “would slaughter people and put the heads of these people on stakes and walk through the streets of the villages to say this is what awaits you if you don’t denounce what he called ‘the enemies’”.

By 2 August 2010, the armed militia had begun to fully occupy the villages.

Sudan: ‘We cannot work under the barrel of a gun,’ UN relief chief says

“For three months now, the people of Sudan have endured unspeakable suffering amid violence that is tearing their country apart,” Martin Griffiths, UN Under-SecretaryGeneral for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said in a statement.

“As the conflict enters its fourth month, the battle lines are hardening, making it ever more difficult to reach the millions of people who need urgent humanitarian assistance,” he added.

More than 3 million people have been displaced due to the conflict both within Sudan and across its borders; the fighting, which broke out in mid-April has reportedly claimed the lives of more than 1,100 people and injured over 12,000, according to the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Health workers and facilities have also been attacked, severely limiting access for those in need, and with the onset of the rainy season, there is an increased risk of outbreaks of water- and vector-borne diseases, compounded by challenges in waste management and shortages of supplies.

Children are among the worst affected, with an estimated 13.6 million – roughly half the number remaining in Sudan – in urgent need of assistance.Four years on, through institutional will and leadership, civil society engagement, and a dynamic UN and international community’s effort, I can say much has been achieved.

UN rights experts denounce forced evictions of Palestinian families

“As we have repeatedly said, forced evictions of Palestinians in east Jerusalem are part of Israel’s apartheid machinery at work, designed to consolidate Jewish ownership of Jerusalem and racially dominate the city’s population,” the experts, including Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territory occupied since 1967, said.

According to the news release, Israeli police evicted Nora Ghaith and Mustafa Sub Laban from their home in the Old City of Jerusalem in the early hours of 11 July.

The Ghaith-Sub Laban family, who had a protected lease on the house since 1953, reportedly faced constant harassment and lawsuits from Israeli authorities and settlers seeking to seize their home under an inherently discriminatory law that applies to Palestinians in east Jerusalem, the release added.

‘Senseless, unjustified war’ in Ukraine must stop: UN political affairs chief

Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo briefed the Security Council in the wake of the collapse earlier in the day of the Black Sea Initiative to bring grain and fertilizer from the region to the world.

“The longer this war continues, the more dangerous its consequences, including the possibility of a wider conflict,” she warned.

“For the sake of the Ukrainian people and for the sake of our global community, this senseless, unjustified war must stop.”

Ms. DiCarlo provided a toll of the destruction since the start of the war on 24 February 2022.

“Over 500 days since the beginning of Russia’s full scale invasion, life in Ukraine remains a ‘living hell’, as the Secretary-General characterized it,” she said.

To date, 9,287 people have been killed and more than 16,300 injured, according to the UN human rights office, OHCHR, although actual numbers are likely to be higher.

Children in particular have been hit hard, with 537 killed. Last year, Ukraine was the country with the highest number of children killed and maimed, and the most attacks on schools and hospitals.

“As the Secretary-General has consistently underlined, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a blatant violation of the UN Charter and international law,” she said. She also addressed the situation at the beleaguered Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which has been under Russian control since the early weeks of the war.

It’s American Workers Who Are Paying the Price for Climate Change by Ben Jealous - P 9

Advocates and Providers Celebrate Council Override of City FHEPS Veto

City Hall, NY – In response to the City Council’s historic override of the Mayor’s veto of Introduction 878-A, 893-A, 894-A and 229-A to address the city’s homelessness and rising eviction crises, the following housing and homelessness advocates and providers said:

“During his campaign Mayor Adams publicly pledged to give youth experiencing homelessness in the Department of Youth and Community Development shelter system access to CityFHEPS vouchers within the first hundred days of his term. Not only did he fail to keep his promise, but he also vetoed the bills that will satisfy that pledge,” said Jamie Powlovich, the Executive Director of the Coalition for Homeless Youth. “We are deeply grateful to the Council for standing up for the needs of all people experiencing homelessness and those facing eviction by overriding the veto of these historic pieces of legislation. The Council is finally giving young people access to rental assistance they need to exit homelessness into

their own apartments.”

“We laud the New York City Council –especially bill sponsors Diana Ayala, Pierina Sanchez and Tiffany Cabán – for taking this necessary step to enact a package of needed reforms that will ultimately prevent evictions and combat homelessness,” said Robert Desir, Staff Attorney in the Civil Law Reform Unit at The Legal Aid Society. “But let us be clear, should the Adams Administration refuse to implement these measures or bring a challenge in court, we are prepared to intervene with litigation on behalf of our clients. Given the magnitude of the local housing crisis, we have an obligation to ensure that the New Yorkers we represent have every available option to secure a long-term, safe and affordable place to call home.”

“New York City’s number one asset is its people; however the Adams’ administration’s emergency approach to housing immigrants has remained short-sighted, costly and ineffective,” said Murad

Awawdeh, Executive Director of the New York Immigration Coalition. “This has ultimately exacerbated the load on our already overburdened shelter system. Thanks to the NYC Council Speaker Adams and the NYC Council, more New Yorkers will finally be able to leave, and skip entering, our overburdened shelter system and get into permanent housing and on the road to self-reliance and stability. By relieving pressure on the shelter system, we hope that this will mean a reduction in the use of HERRCs, which are often located in neighborhoods with poor access to public transportation, essential services, and don’t always have basic amenities like showers or proper access to bathrooms – making them ineffective locations for both the shortterm and long-term needs of new arrivals. We thank the NYC Council for overriding the Mayor’s veto and for prioritizing the long-term needs of all New York families by ensuring increased access to CityFHEPS vouchers. It’s both the right thing to do to promote stability for more New York families, but also the most cost-effective measure in the long run.”

“By overriding the Mayor’s veto of their CityFHEPS reform and expansion package, the City Council is taking bold steps toward addressing our homelessness and eviction crises” said David R. Jones, President and CEO of the Community Service Society. “As CSS’s research has repeatedly shown, these bills are a smart investment for New York City and its people: fewer evictions and shorter shelter stays improve life for everyone.”

“I’ve lived in the Bronx for most of my life. I was unhoused and now we’re housed thanks to receiving the CityFHEPS voucher,” said Ethel Brown, Leader

withthe Safety Net Activists. “The voucher really helped us once we had the right people doing what needed to be done in order to get the paperwork rolling. All of the four sponsored bills, Intro 878, Intro 893, Intro 894, and Intro 229 are critical to helping people avoid homelessness and helping homeless New Yorkers get housing. Thank you, City Council, for being there and continuing to be there for the unhoused and homeless. And I beseech you Mayor Adams, to have some empathy and work to implement these bills right away so that people can get housing.”

“This historical vote is a monumental story of victory for all New Yorkers impacted by the city’s housing and homelessness crisis,” said Elizabeth Mackey, VOCAL-NY HU Leader and CityFHEPS voucher holder. “We would like to thank Speaker Adrienne Adams and the members of the New York City Council who not only remained steadfast in their commitment to centering and protecting the dire needs and voices of the community, but also exemplifying how to forging a path of collaborative leadership that delivered tangible and sensible housing solutions and policies. Once implemented, this package of bills will keep thousands of families and individuals in their homes, create a pathway to exiting shelter and lessen the burden of households struggling far too often to obtain economic and housing stability at the same time. This is what people-centered policy looks like and today’s bold and unified action from the City Council is what it will continue to take to truly get stuff done for the people of New York City.”

NYS – Appeals Court Orders Drawing of New Congressional Lines

An appeals court in New York ordered state leaders to redraw the congressional map on Thursday — which could prove to be a big boon for Democrats nationwide, and a major setback for Republicans seeking to hold the House next year.

The ruling now opens the door for district lines across the Empire State’s 26 congressional districts to be shifted away from those in the court-drawn map adopted in 2022 after Republicans successfully challenged the Democratic-led legislature’s map.

In response, U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, “The Appellate Division decision confirms that the New

York State Constitution requires congressional district lines be drawn by an independent redistricting commission. In contrast, the current congressional map was drawn by an unelected, out-of-town Special Master appointed by an extreme right-wing judge, who himself was handpicked by partisan political operatives. It’s important that the Independent Redistricting Commission get to work expeditiously and present a map that fairly reflects the racial, ethnic, cultural, regional and socio-economic diversity of our great state.”

On Thursday, the appellate division of the state Supreme Court sided with the

Democratic Party, that argued in a lawsuit that the district map that was drawn for the 2022 midterms was only meant to be temporary.

The current map was drawn by a special master who had been appointed by the state Supreme Court after it ruled that Democrats had unfairly gerrymandered the previous map. That ruling took the responsibility for redistricting out of the hands of the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC). However, a five-judge panel on Thursday voted 3-2 in favor of ordering the IRC to “commence its duties forthwith” and redraw the state map.

Haiti – UN Chief to Lead Plan to Fight Armed Gangs

The UN Security Council has called on secretary-general Antonio Guterres to come up with options to help combat Haiti’s armed gangs, including a possible UN peacekeeping force and a non-UN multinational force.

On Friday, in a resolution adopted unanimously by the council, Guterres was asked to report back on “a full range” of options within 30 days to improve the security situation, including additional training for the Haitian National Police and providing support to combat illegal arms trafficking to the impoverished Caribbean nation.

It also authorizes up to 70 UN police and corrections advisers to scale up support and training for Haiti’s understaffed and underfunded national police force. And it “encourages” countries, especially in the Caribbean region, to respond to appeals from Haiti’s prime minister and from Guterres for the deployment of an interna-

tional specialized force.

Last year, Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry sent an urgent appeal asking for “the immediate deployment of a specialized armed force, in sufficient quantity” to stop gang warfare.

Last week, Guterres, who visited Haiti earlier this month, called for a robust international force to help the Haitian National Police “defeat and dismantle the gangs.”

He said the estimate by the UN independent expert for Haiti, William O’Neill, that up to 2,000 additional anti-gang police officers are needed is no exaggeration.

In the French speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member state, the gangs have grown in power since the July 7, 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and are now estimated to control up to 80 per cent of the capital. (CMC)

The Impact of Jamaican Diaspora For Years

The Honourable Alando Terrelonge, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, welcomes r ecent media reports which credits the innovation behind mass produced iron and the resultant industrial revolution, to enslaved workers on a Jamaican plantation.

“The academic paper authored by Dr. Jenny Bulstrode, a lecturer in history of science and technology at the University College London (UCL), testifies to the innovative and resourcefulness of Jamaicans. Some would

argue that it adds fuel to the reparations movement, as it was this method practiced by slaves in Jamaica and exported to the empire that propelled Britain to its leadership role in the Industrial Revolution,” Minister Terrelonge stated. The Minister, who last month participated in Windrush Day (June23) activities in London, England and who gave the keynote address at the 7th United Kingdom (UK) – Jamaica Diaspora Regional Conference, in the same city, reiterated his commendations to the Windrush generation and their de-

scendants, lauding them for their ‘stellar contribution’ to the UK and their homelands, including Jamaica.”

The Minister with responsibility for Diaspora Affairs cited the Guardian article and the related study as “further evidence of the impact that Jamaicans have had wherever they call their home of abode.” He drew reference to the presence and contribution of Jamaicans throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, including non-traditional receiving countries like Panama, Colombia, Honduras, Belize and Costa Rica.

PM Gonsalves Wants Reparation on the Agenda of EU-CELAC Summit

BRUSSELS, CMC – St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on Monday said he expects “mature” discussions to take place during the two day European Union and the Community of Latin American and the Caribbean States (CELAC) summit that gets underway in Brussels on Monday.

The EU-CELAC summit is the first to be held in eight years, and Gonsalves, who is CELAC pro tempore president, told reporters ahead of the deliberations that he expects the final communique would make reference to the issue of reparation for slavery.

He told reporters outside the venue of the summit that he has already held talks with Charles Michel, the President of the EU Council “to see how we could finalise some issues in the declaration”.

Gonsalves said that there are several issues

affecting the region he would like discussed, including climate change, poverty, food security, reform of the global financial architecture, digital transition and improved multilateralism.

“I am very hopeful that we will see a paragraph in the declaration addressing the historical legacies of native genocide and enslavement of African bodies and something towards reparative justice.

“This is a subject on which we need to have a mature conversation. In the case of the English-speaking Caribbean countries, one of the main countries in Europe, well they are not in the European Union… the United Kingdom, Prince Charles, before he was King Charles at the Commonwealth Heads of Government last year in Rwanda said the time has come for a mature conversation on the subject,” Gonsalves said.

We have seen apologies issued by some countries, recently the King in the Netherlands. The Caribbean Community (CAR-

ICOM) has put forward a 10-point plan for reparative justice…this is not a plan for individual persons to get money, it’s a plan on many issues involving the question of debt relief, social and inclusive matters in education and health (and) some cultural issues…”

Gonsalves said the intention is for the Caribbean to work together with Europe “on those matters to repair the historical legacies of under development resulting from native genocide and enslavement of African bodies”.

Gonsalves said that an agreement on the issue would be a “basis for the intelligent mature discussion.

“You know as well as I do know it is a discussion the time of which has now arrived,” he told the reporters.

Mayor Appoints Edward Caban as NYPD Commissioner, Tania Kinsella as First Deputy Commissioner

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of Edward A. Caban as the 46th commissioner and Tania Kinsella as 45th first deputy commissioner of the New York City Police Department (NYPD). Caban is the first Latino to serve as commissioner of the NYPD in its 178-year history, and Kinsella is the first woman of color to serve as first deputy commissioner in NYPD history.

A 32-year veteran of the NYPD, Caban has served at several precincts across the five boroughs where he has held nearly every position within the Police Department, including police officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, executive officer, commanding officer, deputy inspector, inspector, and first deputy commissioner before being promoted today to commissioner. He became the NYPD’s first deputy commissioner in 2022 and was designated as acting police commissioner earlier this month.

A 20-year veteran of the NYPD, Kinsella has also served at several precincts across the five boroughs where she has held numerous positions such as captain, commanding officer, deputy inspector, and inspector. She became executive officer at the office of the chief of patrol in 2022, where she was subsequently promoted to deputy chief.

“It is my honor to announce the appointment of Edward Caban as the next commissioner of the New York City Police Department and the first Latino police commissioner in NYPD history, as well as Tania Kinsella as the next first deputy commissioner and first woman of color to

serve in that role in NYPD history,” said Mayor Adams. “A Bronx native, with more than 30 years of experience as one of New York’s Finest, Commissioner Caban is the right choice at the right time. Not only has Commissioner Caban climbed the ranks, serving in nearly every role within the Police Department, but policing is in his blood, as he follows in the footsteps of his father, another veteran of the NYPD. As first deputy commissioner, Commissioner Caban worked side by side with Commissioner Sewell to deliver double digit decreases in shootings and murders in our first year — a downward trend that continues today. And I am confident that Commissioner Caban will continue that legacy of success while supporting our officers going forward every day. The same is true for First Deputy Commissioner Kinsella. The

youngest daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and Guyana, her appointment today truly personifies the American Dream. In her 20 years with the NYPD, First Deputy Commissioner Kinsella has devoted herself to bringing the police and the community together, building bonds, and making our city a better, safer, and stronger place to live.

Commissioner Caban and First Deputy Commissioner Kinsella are the best of the NYPD. They truly understand the importance of both safety and justice, and I look forward to continuing to work with them to help keep our city safe.”

“I want to thank Mayor Adams and my fellow New Yorkers for putting your faith and trust in me,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “I am humbled to be on your team and to lead the

greatest police department on the globe. The NYPD is the most consequential police department in all of law enforcement. Its storied history is a living legacy of valor, bravery, and sacrifice — of ordinary New Yorkers who did extraordinary things. When a person in need rings the bell, you can always count on the NYPD to answer the call. Together, we will build upon our successes and continue to drive down crime and improve the quality of life in our communities.”

“Aside from being a mother, working as a police officer is the most deeply rewarding job I can imagine, and I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to do even more for the city I love,” said NYPD First Deputy Commissioner Kinsella. “From the very first moment I joined the NYPD 20 years ago, it was love at first sight because being a police officer is about so much more than keeping people safe. It’s about building community, helping others from all walks of life, and making a difference in people’s lives, especially those in need. As a mother, I am always thinking of my children’s safety and well-being, and as the commanding officer at the 120th Precinct — in my home borough of Staten Island — I have been determined to protect all our children and families and make a difference in the place I love and call home. The Bronx made me, and Staten Island raised me. As the daughter of two immigrants, this is the American Dream, and I want to thank Mayor Adams and Commissioner Caban for helping fulfill that dream. I am honored to take on this role and thankful for this opportunity to serve my fellow New Yorkers.”

St. Lucian Dona Regis-Prosper Named First Female Secretary-General

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the premier tourism development agency for 25 Caribbean countries and territories, has appointed Dona Regis-Prosper the new Secretary-General and Chief Executive Officer. Beginning her assignment on September 1, 2023, RegisProsper, who hails from St. Lucia, is set to make history as the first woman to assume leadership of the intergovernmental body.

With an impressive career that spans more than 22 years, Regis-Prosper brings an unparalleled depth and breadth of knowledge and experience in the tourism industry to the C TO. She has lived and worked in multiple Caribbean destinations, and served as Director of Marketing and Product Development of the St. Lucia Air and Seaports Authority; Director of Business Development for Margaritaville Caribbean Group in Jamaica; CEO of the Tortola Pier Park in the British Virgin Islands; and General Manager of the Antigua Cruise Port where she is currently employed. Chairman of the CTO, Kenneth Bryan, who is the Minister of Tourism and Ports of the Cayman Islands, welcomed Regis-Prosper to the regional body. “We are extremely pleased to have Dona Regis-Prosper come on board to lead the CTO. Her vast experience, strategic insight, and impressive track record in the tourism sector make her an exceptional choice

and CEO

to propel our organization into a new era,” he stated, adding that having more women in positions of influence enhances the efficiency of the region’s major economic earner and sends positive messages of encouragement and inspiration for women and girls across the Caribbean.

A dynamic and transformative leader who has built and sustained a strong network of professionals in both the public and private sector (working closely with regional government officials, tourism stakeholders, and industry professionals), Regis-Prosper emerged as the top choice from a pool of more than 60 highly qualified applicants. The rigorous selection process included multiple rounds of interviews and a comprehensive assessment related to addressing some of the most pressing issues faced by the regional tourism industry.

Chairman Bryan disclosed that throughout the selection process, ministers, commissioners and directors lauded Regis-Prosper’s transformational leadership style. “They found her to be innovative, forward-thinking, results-driven, and solution-oriented,” he said, noting that her perspective on managing the climate crisis was particularly well-received, illustrating her deep-seated passion for sustainability and her ability to develop practical solutions to critical industry issues.

of the CTO

Regis-Prosper takes over the organization’s leadership reins from Acting Secretary General and CEO Neil Walters, CTO’s Director of Finance and Resource Management, who has been filling the position following the retirement of Barbadian Hugh Riley in 2019. The other two Caribbean tourism professionals to serve in the region’s top tourism post include the late tourism stalwart Jean Holder and Vincent Vanderpool Wallace, former Bahamas Director General and Bahamas Minister of Tourism.

Of her new role, Regis-Prosper stated, “I am deeply honored to have been selected to serve as Secretary General of the CTO and am grateful for the trust and confidence the CTO Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism and the Board of Directors have placed in me. I eagerly look forward to working with our dedicated team and diverse stakeholders to promote the Caribbean tourism sector, champion sustainability, and continue to foster impactful relationships and deliver ROI for our members.”

With a Master of Business Administration degree, Certified Professional Marketer qualification, and significant experience in business development, strategy, marketing and sustainability, Regis-Prosper is well able to lead the Caribbean tourism sector into a bright and prosperous future, Chairman Bryan asserted.

Trinidad – Ready to Pay Extra for Police Officers of Integrity

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley speaking at a local government election meeting at Harris Promenade in San Fernando, says he is willing to pay more to police officers to be part of what he described as “vetted units” reserved for officers of the highest integrity.

Criticizing the police service, Rowley held nothing back. “There are too many criminals in the police service,” he said, noting that his proposal was critical.

“I was in a meeting with the Minister of National Security and our experts and the American experts where the American government has undertaken and we have agreed to accept it, to create within our police service, what we call vetted units. Vetted units, meaning groups of special police officers, men and women who are

vetted to ensure that their integrity is intact.”

Rowley is adamant about getting rid of corrupt police officers who put lives in danger.

“When you’re going after the non-police criminals, they have their friends in the police service, to tip them off. And we have to have vetted units,” he explained. “I’m telling this country that we are prepared to pay extra to police officers in those vetted units if they will maintain their integrity and help us to root out the criminals in the police service, in the customs, in immigration and in the Parliament.”

T&T – Growing Attacks on Bank Customers by Criminals

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC –

The Bankers Associations of Trinidad and Tobago Wednesday said it “acknowledges with great concern” the increased risk being faced by clients before and after they visit banks and branches and automated teller machines (ATM).

In a statement, the association said that the increase in criminal activity is of as much concern to it as it is to its customers and that in an effort to combat the “uptick in these criminal activities, BATT has strengthened its coordination effort among all banks; broadened the interaction with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service; and is finalizing a partnership with Crime Stoppers Trinidad and Tobago Ltd with a view to mitigating and or managing incidents of this nature collectively and expeditiously.

We would like to assure our clients that their safety remains a primary concern of BATT and while we encourage clients to make greater use of our non-cash service options, we are committed to doing what we can to provide a safe environment for clients who choose to avail of our cash services.

In recent times, many customers, mainly elderly people, have been attacked on leaving the banks or ATMs, and the association, which groups together eight of the major banks, said it wanted to remind customers “to remain alert, pay close attention to their immediate environs when approaching and leaving bank premises and notify the bank and police right away if any suspicious activity or individuals are noticed.”

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A Community Cannot Be Heard If You Have No Voice

tality, the work, most of it free work, to demonstrate the value of the Caribbean American community, so much so that even when there was a need for immigration work to be done to allow for producers, announcers from the Caribbean, to be a part of the WLIB team, the Progressive League was in a position to sponsor. So the need for Black Caribbean radio was pushed, developed, and expanded even then. And the community became more focused, and more robust.

managers, we would have had a program flow across the entire platform that would attract corporate advertisers and function with a strong board that will support the community.

We have experienced recently the silencing of what is called Caribbean Radio and the ‘leased time producers’ left in a quandary with the sale of WVIP, a radio station which carries Caribbean programming. A community must have a voice, and that voice must be owned and controlled by the community. That is the issue at hand, as we see in this particular situation where the individual producers are now without a platform for their music, events and products.

It has been a model of `leased time’ that has carried with it for a long time, the inerrant danger of the inability to sustain itself and to really serve the needs of the community. The need for a community voice, community media, was recognized almost 200 years ago by a Jamaican John Brown Russwurm and an African American, Reverend Samuel Cornish, suggesting that it was time for Black people to come together and have their own voice.

And it was the theme of that, that for too long, others have spoken for us as a people and now we wish to plead our own cause. That has been the anthem of the struggle for Black freedom and Black voice and community voice over those two centuries. It was in 1914 that Marcus Garvey published Freedom: The Negro World, documenting, inspiring articles and advocating for the voice of Black people to take charge of their destiny, to have their own voice, to control their own media. and to be able to determine their own

destiny. This has translated itself into all levels of media.

In particular, in the New York area, the Caribbean population grew and expanded its impact and influence. There was no real connecting, community-owned media. It was at this time that Carib News was founded to fill that voice, to fill that void, to provide a voice that pleaded our own cause, a voice that spoke to the needs of our community, a voice that is and of the community, owned and directed by the community.

On the issue of Black radio, in 1970, Percy Sutton and a number of Black investors bought the radio station WLIB specifically to talk to the issues of Black people, to give them a voice. It provided an opportunity at that time for an understanding of the Caribbean American population and its potential as a market.

The Jamaica Progressive League, whose president at the time was Carl Rodney, grasped the opportunity and worked with the Suttons to plea the need for the Black voice to include the Caribbean American community not only plead the need, but demonstrated its value. And so it was through that effort that Caribbean programming came to WLIB and the Caribbean community had a radio voice. Not owned by Caribbean Americans, but at least owned by Blacks and had investors who were Caribbean American. So it was a wide opening for the Caribbean American population to have a radio voice in New York. And it was through the instrumen-

And around that time also, WWRL provided another Black radio outreach that was available to the Caribbean community on a limited basis, but nonetheless available. This interest in Caribbean radio spilled over into leased time operations. There were individual producers with leased time from various radio stations to promote their events and their products and had a lucrative but limited exposure to what the community meant, needed, and was capable of, but nonetheless, it was an outlet that had value and was available.

Several attempts were made to bring together these various producers to form collaborations, and coalitions, and in fact, look at a business model that would be more sustainable than just the ongoing leasing of time. Here again, Carl Rodney was involved in trying to pull it together. Individual producers from WPAT, WNWK, who are primarily Caribbeandirected, form companies that would be viable and focused and even more profitable if we could have a Caribbean-themed and focused programming across all platforms.

The barrier, of course, was the individual interests of the producers, the satisfaction of owning their own radio niche, and the inability to see what a strong, across-theboard radio programming would have been and of certainly the glory of ownership.

It was always felt that ownership of a radio product was the goal. Again, when WLIB became available and a business model that included business persons, investors from the Caribbean, some of the largest companies, and investors from the U. S. came together to find a way to acquire WLIB, and the independent producers were invited in to contemplate the owning of the station. They’d probably have to give up some of their own individual approaches, but we would have had a program director, we’d have had advertising

While the business person were keen and ready to go, the producers of the various programs were reluctant to give up on their lease time niche, their lease time programming to come into a structured Caribbean owned radio. And so we have had a history of attempts being made and not fully brought to fruition.

And this is not pointing fingers because people operate in their own best selfinterest.

It points to the need for coming together as a people to build our own institutions, to own our own operation, and to be able to have a voice and a say in our community, its direction, its development, and its empowerment. So it’s really a learning experience that if we are going to really strive, grow, and be impactful, is that we might have to give up some individual control to a larger effort need to come to that as a people.

We need to find the formula to have our institutions owned and controlled by our people, you can bet there are people there who will exploit us as a community, who will imitate themselves as value to our community. But are in fact only using our community as a hustle. We have to be mindful of that. It exists today. We have to be mindful of what is referred to by academicians as mercenaries who will work for the man in a way of disguising true intention. And this is the most dangerous when it comes to media, because as Garvey says, we must free our mind and we can’t free our mind if people control what we read, hear, and see. And so it’s no small matter. And it’s no casual complaint. It’s probably the time now when there are a number of options, from commercial radio, to community radio, from internet radio, satellite radio, to have a platform that speak for, speak to, and is controlled and owned by Caribbean Americans. This is a learning point, and one that we hope the community will grow stronger for, as we look to solve the issue of who will speak for us. Where will our voice be and how can we own our and build our institutions free from imitation, interference and exploitation from outside groups, even when they look like us.

We Must Own Our Voice to be Heard!

Biden-Harris Administration Launches $2.2 Billion Relief Initiative to Support Black Farmers

by Stacy Brown

The Biden-Harris Administration has unveiled a $2.2 billion relief initiative aimed at providing support to Black farmers and other individuals who have faced discrimination within federal government lending programs.

The Inflation Reduction Act, part of Biden’s commitment to addressing historical injustices, includes a total of $5.3 billion dedicated to offering relief to tens of thousands of farmers across the country. Of the allocated funds, $3.1 billion reportedly will be used to assist distressed borrowers in paying off their farm debts without losing their land or becoming ineligible for future assistance.

An additional $2.2 billion will be allocated specifically to farmers who have suffered discrimination through USDA farm programs.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that applications are now being accepted for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program, which aims to provide financial aid to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who have experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending prior to 2021.

“The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our com-

mitment to providing financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending, as swiftly and efficiently as possible,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized.

The initiative comes after decades of Black farmers accusing the USDA of discrimination and being denied loans crucial for their livelihoods and land preservation.

A study conducted in May 2022 revealed that Black farmers had lost over $326 billion in land value throughout the 20th century.

The Washington Informer reported in 2022 that researchers considered that figure to be a conservative estimate of the actual financial impact racist practices have had on Black American farmers since 1920.

Biden issued an executive order last year, instructing the USDA to establish a 15-member independent equity commission aimed at rectifying discrimination within its policies and practices concerning Black farmers. Under the initial Build Back Better plan, the Biden administration said it wanted to allocate significant funds to support Black farmers. However, the plan was scuttled after white farmers filed lawsuits claiming that the earmarking of funds specifically for Black

farmers amounted to discrimination. The legal action has resulted in the tying up of $4 billion as the administration continues to defend the action in court.

Further, a 2021 report from ProPublica also shed light on the systematic discrimination faced by Black farmers at the hands of various federal agencies, including the USDA.

The report detailed how the USDA impeded Black farmers’ access to critical federal funds through discriminatory loan denials and deliberate delays in financial aid.

“If you are Black and you’re born south of the Mason-Dixon Line and you tried to farm, you’ve been discriminated against,” Lloyd Wright, the director of the USDA Office of Civil Rights under Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and a Black Virginia farmer, stated in the report.

In an earlier interview with the Informer, John Wesley Boyd Jr., founder, and president of the National Black Farmers Association in Bakersville, Virginia, added, “The oldest occupation in this country for Black people is farming. But from slavery through Jim Crow, the USDA, and the banks – all these things put together means we are facing extinction.”

Boyd added:

“What’s troubling is when the brown bear, the black bear, and the bald eagle were facing extinction, Congress put harsh laws in place until their numbers came back up. So why can’t they do the same thing for the oldest occupation in history for Black people, which is farming?”

The White House said the launch of the $2.2 billion relief initiative represents a significant step towards rectifying the historical injustices faced by Black farmers and marks the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing systemic discrimination in federal lending programs.

With the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program now accepting applications, eligible farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners should now have access to needed financial assistance.

It’s American Workers Who Are Paying the Price for Climate Change

by Ben Jealous

Smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to endanger public health and cause hardship for tens of millions of people of all ages from New York to Missouri, we are painfully reminded of Maria Alvarez, a home care worker in Santa Paula, California. Several years ago, during the devastating Thomas Fire, Maria kept her disabled son, who depended on a ventilator, alive by manually pressing on his chest and lifting his head while the raging wildfire engulfed her community with smoke and left her without power for days.

Alvarez’s story, like many others, serves as a stark reminder that the climate crisis and its devastating impacts extend far beyond environmental concerns. It affects the lives and livelihoods of essential workers and their families, including the Service Employee International Union’s 2 million members working across the service and care economy, who increasingly find themselves on the front line of the climate crisis. Service workers often care for our neighbors with respiratory illnesses and other serious health conditions aggravated by climate-driven emergencies. When increasingly common and devastating hurricanes, floods, heatwaves and wildfires strike, these everyday heroes help evacuate the most vulnerable members of our community, including children, people with disabilities and senior citizens.

Meanwhile, other essential workers, like airplane cabin cleaners and building janitors who often work behind the scenes, perform their jobs in stifling heat when the power goes out or systems are shut off to save money.

The climate crisis won’t wait, and neither can the health and safety of millions of workers and families around the country who need relief from the unrelenting effects of air pollution. In May, the Biden administration took desperately needed action by proposing climate pollution standards for fossil fuel power plants, one of the largest sources of carbon pollution and a major driver of climate change. When finalized, these will become the first meaningful federal limits on carbon emissions from coal and gas plants, and one of the most significant tools available to shift the power sector from fossil fuels to clean energy.

As proposed, President Biden’s climate pollution standards are projected to cut carbon pollution by as much nearly 800 million metric tons while also reducing other dangerous air pollutants released by power plants. These changes are long overdue. According to the EPA’s own analysis, this proposal will deliver $85 billion in net health benefits. The standards are also expected, on an annual basis, to avoid 1,300 premature deaths, 800 hospitalizations, 38,000 school absences, and 66,000 lost workdays.

An agricultural scientist and advocate with the Sierra Club, Katie Rock, recently testified in support of strong climate pollution standards before the EPA. In her home state of Iowa, coal plants are the largest source of carbon emissions, and strong climate pollution standards could make a real difference in the air she and her neighbors breathe every day.

The proposed climate pollution standards, when finalized, will work together with other recent actions from the Biden administration to address the climate crisis. These include measures to reduce methane emissions from oil and gas drilling, limits on carbon pollution from cars and trucks, and the historic investments in clean energy from the Inflation Reduction Act.

Together, these measures can not only ensure safe and healthy working conditions but also sustain a livable planet for generations to come.

We must remember that the fight against the climate crisis is inseparable from the fights for racial justice, economic justice, and labor rights. It is a fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and a dignified life for all workers. It is a fight to ensure that every person, regardless of their background or zip code, can enjoy clean air, drinkable water, and a healthy planet.

Throughout history, labor, environmental and racial justice activists have played a

crucial role in advancing working conditions and sustaining robust economies while protecting our planet. As we witness the unfolding clean energy transition, through which we must create new, family-sustaining union jobs, it becomes evident that our past and future are profoundly interconnected. To save the most lives and prevent the worst effects of climate change, we must act together, with the fierce urgency of now. The Biden administration must do its part and move forward with the strongest possible standards to cut power plant pollution and implement the standards as quickly as possible.

As leaders of the Sierra Club and the SEIU, we stand united in urging President Biden to prioritize the finalization and implementation of strong climate pollution standards for power plants. Let us seize this opportunity to address the climate crisis, protect the health and well-being of workers and families, and build a sustainable future for all.

Jill Stewart, Wife of Sandals Chairman, Adam Stewart, Dies

ney, our family’s journey, wherever it led. Opening herself to this community was brave and generous. Just like Jill. She remained deeply touched by your words of comfort and she hoped her story would serve to impact and protect others in the pursuit of prevention.

things we have ever experienced. We are deeply aware and forever grateful for your time. It is everything.

The sad news has led to an outpouring of support from Jamaica, where Sandals Resorts was founded and is based today, and beyond.

not adequately convey the depth of our sadness and the pain we feel for your loss. The passing of your beloved wife, Jill, is a devastating blow that has left us all with a profound sense of grief.”

Jill Stewart, the wife of Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International Adam Stewart, has passed away. Adam shared the announcement on Saturday to his social media.

From the moment we received her terrible diagnosis a little more than a year ago, Jill was certain she wanted to share her jour-

Time with the ones you love is what life is all about. Jill believed this to her core and told us so time and time again. She fought harder than anything I have ever seen and never ever gave up. Hers will forever be a story of courage, strength, and grace. We are shattered to begin this new journey without her but the love she left us will be our guide.

To our beautiful Jilly, you taught us the true meaning of selfless love and we will love you forever.

On behalf of my family, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking part in our story. Your support and encouragement have been one of the most sacred

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness took to Twitter on Saturday to express his condolences. He shared: “I extend my deepest condolences & prayers. We mourn the loss of a remarkable woman whose selfless love touched the lives of so many. May Jill’s memory forever inspire us to embrace life fully, to love unconditionally, & to cherish every precious moment with our loved ones. Her story will forever be etched in our hearts as a testament to her courage, grace, and resilience. We grieve with you, and we are here to provide comfort, strength, and solace in the face of your immense loss. Adam (@AdamStewart), words can-

Condolences From The Community

The Honorable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, along with members of the Ministry’s Senior Executive Management Team and Bahamas family of Tourism Partners, expressed their sympathy upon learning of Jill’s passing this past Friday. Deputy Prime Minister Cooper said, “We convey our deepest condolences to Mr. Adam Stewart, the couple’s three children, immediate family, and extended Jamaican and Bahamian families as they mourn the

Latia Duncombe, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation expressed her sentiments on Jill’s passing:

“Our hearts go out to Mr. Adam Stewart and his family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. In going public with her year-long struggle with cancer, Mrs. Stewart gave a gift to the world. She demonstrated to us all how to confront adversity with courage, tenacity and grace.”

loss of a wife, mother, relative and friend who exemplified so many noble qualities.”

Jill Stewart was born in The Bahamas and in 2005 moved to Jamaica where she made her home alongside her beloved husband Adam Stewart. The couple met in their teens in boarding school in Boca Raton. Mrs. Stewart’s twin passion for running and youth development led her to throw her ardent support behind the development of Montego Bay’s first 10K/5K run and walk for education, the MoBay City Run.

Jill Stewart was diagnosed with cancer just over a year ago. She made the brave decision to chronicle her journey with cancer on social media for the benefit of others who struggle with terminal illness. Day after day, through her uplifting posts on Instagram, the public witnessed the face of a woman who valiantly confronted the fight against cancer. Mrs. Stewart passed away peacefully on the evening of Friday, July 14, surrounded by family and friends.

Latia Duncombe, Director General of the

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett also expressed his condolences. Bartlett recalled that, “The love they shared and the care that [Adam] offered is so powerful and strong that it makes the real point about how true love and marriage ought to be. Even in this moment of pain, for that quintessential role he played as husband and father.”

“The entire tourism family and my own family offer deep condolences as we hold up Adam in prayerful support during this difficult hour. May Jill’s soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine upon her,” the Minister said.

Thoughts, prayers and condolences may be sent to: WithLove@JillStewartFamily.com

Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, also expressed her sentiments on the passing of Jill Stewart: “Our hearts go out to Mr. Adam Stewart and his family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. In going public with her year-long struggle with cancer, Mrs. Stewart gave a gift to the world. She demonstrated to us all how to confront adversity with courage, tenacity, and grace.”

CVM Television on Sunday extended heartfelt condolences to executive chairman of Sandals Resorts Adam Stewart on the passing of his wife, Jill Stewart.

“It is with deep regret that we send heartfelt condolences to a dear friend and colleague Adam Stewart on the passing of his wife, Jill Stewart. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful moments and cherished memories we shared with her. Her warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit will forever remain in our hearts. Her steadfast spirit and loving heart were evident to all who knew her,” CVM said in a release.

“May her soul find eternal peace, and may you Adam and your dear children, find solace in the love and support of your family and friends during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers,” CVM added.

Six Heads of Government on Sub-Committee to Define Regional Approach to COP28

Heads of Government of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Saint Lucia, Suriname and St. Vincent and the Grenadines are on a sub-committee that has been established to chart the regional approach to COP28.

Heads of Government set up the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee during the just-concluded 45th Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in Port-ofSpain, Trinidad and Tobago.

Given the critical importance of financing to address the impact of climate change,

the grouping of Heads will define the regional approach for preparations for COP 28, the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference.

The Heads agreed on the need for strong political advocacy from the Region on key action areas to keep the 1.5 temperature goal within reach, focusing on areas of finance for adaption and loss and damage, improving access to finance for SIDS, de-risking, debt sustainability and innovation as key points. They also agreed to actively support the Caribbean Develop-

ment Bank’s proposal to host the Santiago Network on Loss and Damage.

The COP 28 will be held in the United Arab Emirates in November and President-designate of the Conference, His Excellency, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, was a special guest at the Heads of Government meeting.

In his virtual interaction with the Heads of Government, the President-designate said that his presidency will focus on an action-oriented, consensus-driven approach to climate change mitigation, with a view

to protecting nature and enhancing food security.

The Communique issued at the end of the Meeting said Heads of Government welcomed his proposed new framework, which included efforts to keep pressure on donor countries regarding financing and targets for the reduction of carbon emissions. They insisted on the need for urgent and decisive measures.

Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies: Over 100 Brooklynites Joined Borough President Reynoso

Christopher Rose Community Empowerment Campaign

Diaspora Community Services

Hope and Healing Family Center

Life of Hope

Morris Heights Health Center (MHHC)

Brooklyn

My Angel Doula Alliance

NYC Administration for Children’s Services

NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

NYC Health + Hospitals

NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull Midwifery Service

NYC Midwives

Plant Powered Metro New York Public Health Solutions

ing information on how to prevent maternal mortality and morbidity, exercise choice in providers and hospitals, learn how to self-advocate and connect with community partners and doulas. The frank conversations we had on Saturday have the power not only to informbut to template the minds of those receiving care so that clients, partners, and families eat better, know their rights, have useful words to use in challenging situations, find providers that share their care philosophy and now have some navigational tools to make their labor and birthing experience a safe, satisfying and sacred experience.”

BROOKLYN, NY (July 18, 2023) – Brooklyn

Borough President Antonio Reynoso on Saturday hosted a maternal health expo to provide expecting Brooklynites, new parents, and anyone who is planning pregnancy with information on a healthy pregnancy and postpartum experience. Over 100 Brooklynites joined for the all-afternoon event featuring workshops, Mommy and Me yoga and belly dancing classes guided by Harlem Yoga Studio, resources provided by tabling organizations, and remarks by Borough President Reynoso, Deputy Borough President Kim Council, Assembly Member Brian Cunningham, Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, Council Member Rita Joseph, and others. The expo builds on the Borough President’s historic maternal health agenda, which Borough President Reynoso kicked off over a year ago after assembling his Maternal Health Taskforce and making history by dedicating the entirety of his FY2023 capital funding – a total of $45 million – to Brooklyn’s three public hospitals for maternal healthcare improvements. This marked the first time a Borough President has ever allocated an entire fiscal year’s capital funding to one cause, and within one city organization.

“This crisis we have in Brooklyn – where Black women are dying at 9.4 times the rate of their White counterparts – is deeply personal to me,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “It’s an all-hands-on-deck crisis, and our maternal health expo was all about the power we already have among us to encourage healthy and happy pregnancies. We came

together as city agencies, local organizations, maternal health experts, doctors, doulas, and more to show that Brooklyn is ready to turn the tide on maternal mortality, and I’m so grateful to everyone who showed out to make the day possible. Together, I know we can make this borough the safest place in the city to have a baby.”

The day featured four healthy pregnancy workshops:

Prenatal Nutrition & Cooking, led by Daphne Bianco, a Women’s Health Dietician at H+H/ Kings County.

Know Your Rights: Paid Parental Leave, Health Insurance, and More, led by Yomaha Gordon, Program Coordinator for the Caribbean Women’s Health Association.

Breastfeeding, led by Paulette Porter-Clarke, RN, CLC, of H+H/Woodhull.

Safe Sleep, led by Shantel Taylor Tull, Family Wellness Suite-Site Coordinator, NYC Health Department.

Current and expecting parents enjoyed safely moving in their bodies during two classes led by Nyota Nayo of the Harlem Yoga, who first led ‘Mommy and Me yoga’ followed by a class in ‘Mommy and Me belly dancing.’

Elected officials, city agencies, community organizations, and others that were on site to provide additional resources included:

The Alex House Project

Assembly Member Brian Cunningham

Brooklyn Perinatal Network

CAMBA

Caribbean Women’s Health Association

Puerto Rican Family Institute

The NYC Health Department closed the event by raffling off a limited supply of Pack-n-Plays.

The maternal health expo is made possible by the partnership of Brooklyn for All, Inc., Borough President Reynoso’s Maternal Health Taskforce, Assembly Member Brian Cunningham, the Caribbean Women’s Health Association, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and NYC Health + Hospitals.

“Healthcare, specifically black maternal healthcare, is in crisis,” said Assembly Member Brian A. Cunningham. “Just last month, Olympian Torie Bowie died from complications related to childbirth, preventable with the proper resources, information, proper midwifery, and doula care. As a black male legislator, mandating healthcare professionals receive culturally responsive care, centers the mothers’ priorities, and creates a more inclusive, holistic, and safe birthing experience. Thank you to Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso for hosting this vital forum for all pregnant and expecting Brooklynites.”

“The Maternal Health Expo is the first of many manifestations that were ignited when the BP was elected to turn Borough Hall into a classroom for the citizens of Brooklyn on the topic of maternal health and wellness,” said Helena Grant, Co-Chair of Borough President Reynoso’s Maternal Health Taskforce, Senior Advisor of Midwifery Initiatives for the Department of Health & Mental Hygiene.

“This is another promise he has kept to uplift and empower birthing people with life-sav-

“The Borough President’s Maternal Health Expo on Saturday was a demonstration of the knowledge and power already among us to begin chipping away at a maternal health crisis that has claimed way too many lives already and disproportionately harms Black women and women of color,” said Dr. Wendy Wilcox, Co-Chair of the Borough President’s Maternal Health Taskforce and Chief Women’s Health Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals. “This expo was but one piece of the puzzle when it comes to improving pregnancy outcomes for New Yorkers, and I’m so grateful to be working with Borough President Reynoso and our incredible taskforce of experts and advocates as we continue building a Brooklyn where no pregnant person dies from a preventable cause. This is a crisis that will require solutions from all sides –infrastructure improvements, public education, career pipelines, and more – but together as one city, we can and will get the job done.”

“The NYC Health Department is pleased to be a co-sponsor of the Maternal Health EXPO with Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso,” said Dr. Zahirah McNatt, Assistant Commissioner, Bureau of Brooklyn Neighborhood Health, Center for Health Equity and Community Wellness, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. “These collaborative efforts aim to enhance services for pregnant and expecting Brooklyn residents, improve birth outcomes, counter historic disinvestment, and eliminate birth inequities. We are grateful for the opportunity to aid in the improvement of pregnancy, birth and postpartum experiences for Black women and birthing persons in Brooklyn.”

Guyana – US Probing Contractor for Smuggling Drugs and Gold

In 2021 and 2022, US government officials repeatedly warned Exxon Mobil to avoid doing business with two mining magnates in Guyana, who face investigation on suspicions of money laundering, drug trafficking and gold smuggling. The individuals in question are the owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise, who have been involved in gold mining and foreign currency exchange before expanding into the oil business in recent years.

Exxon Mobil ignored the US’ warnings, continued to engage the men as part of a $300 million onshore logistics deal with the Mohammeds as partners to a contract awarded in April 2022.

The US is now considering imposing sanctions on the men – Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin – which could require Exxon to sever its business relationship with any sanctioned individuals or companies.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the Mohameds deny any wrongdoing, although they are being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Homeland Security and other U.S. agencies, on suspicions of smuggling Colombian cocaine and illegally mined Venezuelan gold to the United States, Europe and the Middle East. The men are also suspected of laundering money for drug traffickers and criminals, including sanctioned Russian nationals operating in the region.

Back in April, Nazar Mohamed declared he was not involved in any `scampish’ business, and secured the Washington DC public relations and lobbying firm, Barbour Griffith & Rogers to investigate why he has been blocked for more than a decade from securing a US non-immigrant visa.

Pension Reform for St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Kingstown – St Vincent and the Grenadines Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves has warned that reform to the pension and benefit structure of the National Insurance Services (NIS) can begin as early as next year.

Gonsalves wa briefing lawmakers on the finding of the 11th actuarial review of the National Insurance Services (NIS) and an independent analysis of the actuarial review, conducted by the World Bank’s Reserve Advisory and Management Partnership (RAMP).

The Finance Minister told Parliament that according to the report, NIS reserves are projected to be depleted by 2034 if reform is not undertaken and as such “the intention of the government is to implement NIS and pension reform beginning in budget year 2024.”

These changes, he said, would allow the social security agency to be able to continue providing its essential services to the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines, “thereby avoiding last minute draconian changes or fiscally imprudent government interventions”.

The 11th actuarial review made 11 specific

recommendations for the financial viability of the NIS which includes an increase in the contribution rate to at least 15 per cent — up from 10 per cent — progressively over the next 10 years and making NIS registration and payment contributions mandatory for all self-employed and informal sector workers.

The actuarial reviews also suggest considering a number of options to reduce long-term old age pension costs, including consideration of continuing the increase of the pensionable age until age 67 by the year 2032.

The review also suggests reducing the maximum old age pension replacement rate from 60 per cent to 55 per cent, meaning that rather than receiving 60 per cent of their salary, pensioners would receive 55 per cent.

It also recommends that the NIS discourages “the take up of early retirement pensions through adjusted benefit calculations or making the pension formula more progressive. That is, instituting a slightly lower pension rate for those at higher income levels”. (CMC)

NYC Emergency Management and NYC Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene Urge Workers to Take Precautions and Prepare for Poor Air Quality

NYC Department of Health is available at https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/eode/aqi-guidelines-general.pdf

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, together with NYC Emergency Management, today issued an advisory alerting New Yorkers to prepare for potential deteriorations in air quality. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s projected forecast places the Air Quality Index (AQI) at a level potentially unhealthy for at risk groups, with conditions anticipated to persist for the initial part of the upcoming week. Monday’s AQI of 120 indicates the necessity for targeted populations—specifically children, older adults, and individuals of all ages with respiratory or cardiac conditions—to exercise additional caution. With an AQI within the range of 101-150, these sensitive groups may experience adverse effects due to reduced air quality. When the AQI goes over 150, all New Yorkers should begin to take precautions. While forecasting smoke conditions over the next few days presents a formidable challenge, indications suggest that smoke originating from regions north of the city is likely to impact air quality across the metropolitan area significantly. In light of this, NYC Emergency Management, the agency coordinating the city’s response to such environmental risks, is advocating for New Yorkers to increase their vigilance. “We have a robust infrastructure in place and stand fully prepared to respond to air quality conditions,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “While our teams work tirelessly behind the scenes, we urge all New Yorkers, especially those in high-risk categories, to adopt precautionary measures to safeguard their health. Alongside these actions, let us remember the power of community resilience.

Times like these underscore the vital importance of looking out for one another, particularly for those of us who are more vulnerable to health risks.” “While we may see fluctuation in the air quality in the coming days, we also have tools and

guidance to help us navigate conditions,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Pay attention to airnow.gov, listen to your body and take action if you’re feeling the effects of poor air quality.”

NYC Emergency Management is proactively promoting a broad range of preventative measures. These efforts include distributing masks available at local public libraries, FDNY firehouses, and NYPD precincts, and urging New Yorkers to subscribe to the Notify NYC alert system. While Notify NYC remains a crucial conduit for relaying emergency communications about air quality conditions, it is complemented by coordinated efforts with community and faith-based leaders, and the Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT).

Another specialized tool in the agency’s communication strategy is the Advance Warning System, a communication tool for organizations that serve people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. In addition to these measures, public-private partnerships are being leveraged to enhance communication effectiveness. The Strengthening Communities plan is also being deployed, leveraging an extensive network of 35 community groups that have strategized communication plans for emergencies. Each of these diverse initiatives is a critical component of the agency’s comprehensive strategy, purposefully designed to provide residents with the necessary tools and information to safely navigate this week’s anticipated conditions.

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and NYC Emergency Management, in concert with a broad spectrum of critical City agencies are committed to a strong interagency collaboration to ensure that all New Yorkers stay safe, informed, and prepared amidst any potential environmental shifts affecting the city’s overall health. Safety Tips Full guidance from the

The best way to limit exposure to poor air quality is to reduce time outside and limit strenuous activities. The threshold to take these actions, depends on your individual level of risk.Call 911 if you or someone you’re caring for has trouble breathing. Monitoring air quality conditions and being prepared. Visit the EPA’s air quality website airnow.gov or download the AirNow mobile app.Now is a good time to pick up a mask, in case air quality deteriorates. The city is already making masks available at FDNY firehouses and NYPD precincts and is looking to expand supplies to more vulnerable communities. When air quality is poor, wearing a high-quality mask (e.g., N95) can reduce exposure to harmful pollutants. We will continue to communicate with New

The Yorkers about air quality through the summer. The situation will change regularly but we City will provide alerts if conditions deteriorate further (e.g., AQI above 200), but warnings sent by your body are equally important. New Yorkers should listen to their body. Reactions to poor air quality can include watery eyes, scratchy throat, headaches, or shortness of breath.If you feel any of these conditions, go indoors and limit time outside.New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC, the City’s free emergency notification system, to stay informed about the latest weather updates and other emergencies.

To learn more about the Notify NYC program or to sign up, visit NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, call 311, or download the free app for your Android or Apple device. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.

Sheryl Lee Ralph - Self-Care Should Be a Priority For Women

Speaking at the public session of the 50th-anniversary conference of the P eoples National Party Women’s Movement at the Cedar Grove Academy in Portmore on Sunday, Emmy-award winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph is urging Jamaican women to prioritize taking care of themselves, in light of the many demands on them.

Ralph asked women to take care of themselves so they can stand up and take their rightful place in the world. She shared that self-care does not stop with individual actions but extends to cooperation among women. She described sisterhood as a gift that transcends borders and unites women in their shared and varied experiences.

“Today, before everything, I want to remind you about the importance of

self-care in a world that often demands so much of us, we must take the time to nourish our bodies, nourish our minds and lift our spirits,” said Ralph. “As Jamaican women we are bound together by a shared history, culture and once again resilience that withstood the test of time, let us recognize that our strength lies in our collective voice.”

Emphasizing community and cooperation, Ralph shared about her mentor Beverly Manley Duncan and asked, “You think I reach where I am by myself, hell no, somebody took me by the hand.

Ralph is nominated for her second Emmy award.

The conference event was attended by the likes of United States Ambassador to Jamaica Nick Perry, and other notable individuals.

Sparrow Celebrates His 88th Birthday

socially-conscious lyrics, blending humour, satire, and social commentary in a way that only a true musical genius can. Your songs have not only entertained but have also served as a voice for the voiceless, shedding light on important issues and sparking meaningful conversations.

As the “Calypso King of the World,” you have been recognised with numerous accolades and honours, including the prestigious Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT), the Order of the British Empire (OBE), and the Caribbean Music Lifetime Achievement Award. These accolades are a testament to your immeasurable impact on the music industry and your unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.

On Sunday, the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organization (TUCO) joined the global calypso community in celebrating the 88th birthday of the Calypso King of the World, the Mighty Sparrow. Born Slinger Francisco, this calypso legend was born in Grenada, but raised in Trinidad & Tobago from a toddler. He has won Trinidad’s Carnival Road March competition eight times, Calypso King/Monarch eight times, and has twice won the Calypso King of Kings title.

Tuco’s tribute stated:

On this special day, the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) joins the global calypso community in celebrating the incredible journey and remarkable contributions you have made to the world of music. Your unparalleled talent, wit, and charisma have solidified your place as a true icon in the realm of calypso.

Throughout your illustrious career, you have captivated audiences with your powerful and

Your influence extends far beyond the shores of your beloved homeland, as your music has resonated with people from all walks of life around the globe. Your artistry has transcended boundaries, uniting people through the universal language of music and fostering a sense of pride and identity in the Caribbean diaspora.

Today, on your 88th birthday, we celebrate not only your remarkable musical legacy but also the incredible person that you are. Your humility, kindness, and dedication to uplifting fellow artists have inspired generations of musicians and have left an indelible mark on the hearts of your fans worldwide. We wish you good health, happiness, and continued success in all your future endeavors. May your melodies continue to enchant us, and may your spirit forever soar high like a Mighty Sparrow. Happy birthday, Dr. Slinger Francisco!

St. Lucian Dona Regis-Prosper Named First Female Secretary-General and CEO of the CTO

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (July 13, 2023)

– The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the premier tourism development agency for 25 Caribbean countries and territories, has appointed Dona Regis-Prosper the new Secretary-General and Chief Executive Officer. Beginning her assignment on September 1, 2023, Regis-Prosper, who hails from St. Lucia, is set to make history as the first woman to assume leadership of the intergovernmental body. With an impressive career that spans more than 22 years, Regis-Prosper brings an unparalleled depth and breadth of knowledge and experience in the tourism industry to the CTO. She has lived and worked in multiple Caribbean destinations, and served as Director of Marketing and Product Development of the St. Lucia Air and Seaports Authority; Director of Business Development for Margaritaville Caribbean Group in Jamaica; CEO of the Tortola Pier Park in the British Virgin Islands; and General Manager of the Antigua Cruise Port where she is currently employed.

Chairman of the CTO, Kenneth Bryan, who is the Minister of Tourism and Ports of the Cayman Islands, welcomed Regis-Prosper to the regional body. “We are extremely pleased

to have Dona Regis-Prosper come on board to lead the CTO. Her vast experience, strategic insight, and impressive track record in the tourism sector make her an exceptional choice to propel our organization into a new era,” he stated, adding that having more women in positions of influence enhances the efficiency of the region’s major economic earner and sends positive messages of encouragement and inspiration for women and girls across the Caribbean. A dynamic and transformative leader who

Full Circle Moment: A Captain Gives Back Through Mentorship

has built and sustained a strong network of professionals in both the public and private sector (working closely with regional government officials, tourism stakeholders, and industry professionals), Regis-Prosper emerged as the top choice from a pool of more than 60 highly qualified applicants. The rigorous selection process included multiple rounds of interviews and a comprehensive assessment related to addressing some of the most pressing issues faced by the regional tourism industry.

Chairman Bryan disclosed that throughout the selection process, ministers, commissioners and directors lauded Regis-Prosper’s transformational leadership style. “They found her to be innovative, forward-thinking, results-driven, and solution-oriented,” he said, noting that her perspective on managing the climate crisis was particularly well-received, illustrating her deep-seated passion for sustainability and her ability to develop practical solutions to critical industry issues.

Regis-Prosper takes over the organization’s leadership reins from Acting Secretary General and CEO Neil Walters, CTO’s Director of Finance and Resource Management, who has been filling the position following the

retirement of Barbadian Hugh Riley in 2019. The other two Caribbean tourism professionals to serve in the region’s top tourism post include the late tourism stalwart Jean Holder and Vincent Vanderpool Wallace, former Bahamas Director General and Bahamas Minister of Tourism.

Of her new role, Regis-Prosper stated, “I am deeply honored to have been selected to serve as Secretary General of the CTO and am grateful for the trust and confidence the CTO Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism and the Board of Directors have placed in me. I eagerly look forward to working with our dedicated team and diverse stakeholders to promote the Caribbean tourism sector, champion sustainability, and continue to foster impactful relationships and deliver ROI for our members.”

With a Master of Business Administration degree, Certified Professional Marketer qualification, and significant experience in business development, strategy, marketing and sustainability, Regis-Prosper is well able to lead the Caribbean tourism sector into a bright and prosperous future, Chairman Bryan asserted.

For as long as Quincy Pulliam could remember, he gazed up at the sky to watch the airplanes fly by at his mother’s beauty salon. Located in Euless, Texas, it was perfectly positioned near Dallas Fort Worth International Airport to watch planes land and take off.

It was also at that salon where Quincy formed strong connections that led him to discover his passion for aviation and find support through lifelong mentors and where he began his journey to become a pilot. His mentors introduced him to the

CR Smith Museum Aviation STEM Summer Camp and the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) that supported him on his journey to success at American.

Quincy, now a captain at American Airlines, is determined to pay it forward by inspiring the next generation of aviators to pursue their dreams.

Watch his inspiring story on YouTube at https://youtu.be/B6ckswxesNo

Concacaf Launches “Heritage” a Fan-Focused Series That Celebrates The Spirit of the Region

Heritage marks the first series to be shared under Concacaf’s new storytelling platform - 41 Diamonds - which aims to give an equal voice and visibility to all 41 Member Associations

Concacaf is thrilled to announce the launch of “Heritage- the first campaign under the new storytelling platform- 41 Diamonds.” This groundbreaking campaign aims to showcase the real stories of football enthu

siasts, highlighting their national pride and unwavering love for the game.

Heritage is a testament to the incredible football culture that thrives in the Concacaf region. Through the eyes and voices of 16 storytellers from various countries including Canada, Costa Rica, Curaçao, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Sint Maarten, St. Kitts & Nevis, Trinidad & Tobago, and the USA, the project will capture the diverse perspec-

tives and experiences of individuals deeply entrenched in the football world. The storytellers selected for Heritage represent a rich tapestry of backgrounds, lifestyles, and occupations. From artists to activists, coaches to leaders of football supporter groups, filmmakers to coffee farmers, and mixologists to super fans, these individuals bring unique perspectives that contribute to the multifaceted nature of the football community.

Mexico GK Guillermo Ochoa Named Winner of Best GK Award

LOS ANGELES, California – Guillermo

Ochoa of Mexico is the winner of the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup Best Goalkeeper Award presented by Rexona.

Ochoa was an anchor in net for El Tricolor, registering four clean sheets in six games, including all three knockout round matches to help Mexico win their ninth Gold Cup title.

Overall, Ochoa finished the tournament with nine saves.

Sunday was also a historical night for Ochoa, as he became the all-time appearances leader for Mexico players in the Gold Cup, with 25 matches played, surpassing former teammate Andres Guardado (24).

Ochoa also becomes the only man to have

won five Gold Cup titles, one better than DaMarcus Beasley and Landon Donovan (4) of the United States.

It is the second time that Ochoa has claimed the Best GK Award, having done so in Mexico’s prior Gold Cup title run in 2019.