August 2, 2023

VOL. XLII NO. 2127 WEEK OF AUGUST 2 - 8, 2023

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CaribNews EDITORIAL From The Publisher and The President - Jamaica Celebrating 61 Years of Independence - P 8

BRIEFS Guyana – Could Be Electric Vehicles Manufacturing Hub - P 19

TRAVEL CHTA Announces The Return of Chief to Miami This Year - P 22

SPORTS Hetmyer, Hope, Thomas Return to West Indies T20I Squad for India Series - P 23

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023

AFRICA

WORLD BRIEFS

UN envoy to continue efforts towards restoring constitutional order in Niger

Violence at refugee camp in Lebanon leaves 11 dead, forces thousands to flee: UNRWA

Léonardo Santos Simão was in Abuja, Nigeria, on Sunday to participate in the extraordinary summit on the crisis, organized by regional bloc ECOWAS. “He will continue his consultations with all partners with a view to restoring constitutional order and consolidating democratic gains in Niger,” said UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq, speaking in New York.

At the Abuja meeting, ECOWAS demanded the immediate release of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum, who was seized by some of his guards at his official residence on 26 July.

The bloc’s 15 members said they would “take all measures necessary”, including use of force, if he is not reinstated in a week. They have also suspended commercial and financial transactions with Niger and closed air and land borders with the country. Mr. Simão, who also heads the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), condemned in the strongest possible terms the seizure of power by force and the undermining of democratic governance, peace and stability in Niger.

“The unconstitutional change of government in Niger has come to further complicate an already worsening security landscape in the Liptako Gourma area, and the region in general,” he said.

Ein El Hilweh , the largest of 12 Palestine Refugee camps in Lebanon, is located south of the city of Saida. Its inhabitants originally came in 1948, mostly from coastal Palestinian towns.

The site also hosts a large number of Palestine Refugees displaced from other parts of Lebanon, particularly from Tripoli, who found shelter there during the Lebanese civil war and in the aftermath of the Nahr el-Bared conflict in 2007.

Security and governance in the camp are the responsibility of Popular Committees and Palestinian Factions.

The camp is surrounded by a wall and access for people and building materials is controlled by the Lebanese Armed Forces through checkpoints. UNRWA called on all parties to immediately return to calm and take all measures necessary to protect civilians, including children. Armed actors are urged to respect all the agency’s premises and facilities in accordance with international law.

UNHCR urges solidarity with Burkina Faso’s victims of extremist violence

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Humanitarians have warned about mass internal displacement in Burkina Faso caused by non-state armed groups since 2015, “but it’s in 2022 that we’ve really seen large increase in the number of displaced in the country, and that is due to the increased activities by extremist, violent, violent extremist groups as well as increasing humanitarian needs”, the UNHCR official explained.

Latest UN estimates indicate that 4.7 million people across the country are now in need of humanitarian assistance in the west African nation, which is more than 20 percent of the country’s entire population.

Violence and conflict have also destroyed critical infrastructure and impacted state services and institutions, including in conflict-affected areas.

The humanitarian situation is especially severe for people living in towns that have been blockaded by violent extremist groups, including large numbers of internally displaced people.is indispensable to ensure the sustainability of development efforts,” she said.

Children have not been spared serious human rights violations, including forced recruitment by armed groups, child labour “as well as other types of violence, abuse, exploitation and gender-based violence”, Ms. Tan told journalists at a scheduled briefing.

The number of school closures has increased from approximately 3,000 in November 2021 to 6,334 schools as of 31

During visit to Greece, UN official calls for enhanced refugee protection “The Pylos tragedy and the other devastating tragedies in the Mediterranean underscore the primacy of saving lives and protecting the rights of people forced to flee. This was my message to the authorities,” she said.

She emphasized the criticality of safeguarding access to territory and asylum, ensuring a predictable and well-coordinated search-and-rescue system, and the need for responsibility-sharing and solidarity measures among States.

Ms. Triggs also raised concern about reports of summary forced returns, stressing the urgency of effective investigations and measures for prevention and remediation.

Noting that Greece and other countries at the external borders of the European Union (EU) face significant pressures in responding to irregular movements, she reiterated “the need to move towards a border and asylum management system that works for all States, while ensuring that those who seek asylum can access it and refugees are protected.”

Beyond the EU, she advocated for addressing the root causes and drivers of displacement through a routes-based approach and providing robust assistance to countries of origin and transit.

Ms. Triggs cited the establishment of the National Emergency Response Mechanism for Unaccompanied Minors as a best practice for the protection of children, and the relocation of unaccompanied children from Greece to various countries across Europe, as an example of responsibility-sharing in action.

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023

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Haiti – Progress Toward Peacekeeping Force says Blinken US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Saturday that progress is being made toward establishing a multinational peacekeeping force for Haiti.

“We’ve been very focused on trying to put in place what’s necessary for a multinational force, including finding a lead nation to take this on,” Blinken said. “My expectation is that we will have some progress to report on that very soon.”

The Caribbean nation continues to struggle with insecurity, as gangs control around 80 percent of the Haitian capital, and violent crime is prevalent.

Both UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Haitian Prime Minister Ariel

Henry have called for an international intervention to help support Haitian police, and the Security Council has asked Guterres to present a report on all possible options, including a UN-led mission, by mid-August.

The State Department this week ordered family of government employees and non-essential personnel to leave Haiti.

“US citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible by commercial or other privately available transportation options, in light of the current security situation and infrastructure challenges,” the State Department said.

Haiti – US Citizen and Child Kidnapped A week after the US warned its citizens in Haiti to leave the country, a community ministry has confirmed that a former New Hampshire resident and her child were kidnapped.

Alix Dorsainvil, a volunteer nurse and her child were kidnapped on the morning of July 27 near Port au Prince. Dorsainvil works for the Christian humanitarian aid organization, El Roi Haiti, and is married to its director, Sandro Dorsainvil.

According to Jason Brown, the president and co-founder of the ministry, Alix had been living in Haiti for some time, He said, “Alix is a deeply compassionate and loving person who considers Haiti her home and the Haitian people her friends and family. Our team at El Roi Haiti is grateful for the outpouring of prayers, care, and support for our colleague. We continue to work with our partners and trusted

relationships to secure their safe return.”

The organization shared this statement on July 29: Our team at El Roi Haiti is grateful for the outpouring of prayers, care, and support for our colleague. We continue to work with our partners and trusted relationships to secure their safe return.

We can confirm that Alix Dorsainvil, our Director’s wife, and their child were kidnapped on the morning of Thursday, July 27th from our campus near Port au Prince while serving in our community ministry.

Alix is a deeply compassionate and loving person who considers Haiti her home and the Haitian people her friends and family. Alix has worked tirelessly as our school and community nurse to bring relief to those who are suffering as she loves and serves the people of Haiti in

the name of Jesus.

Thank you for your support and compassion during this on-going situation. We would request that no attempts be made to contact the family for comment at this time. We will continue to update and share information as we can on our website at www.elroihaiti.org.

Please refrain from speculating on social media about this situation in order to protect Alix and her child during this time.

We continue to trust in Jesus Christ who is faithful, even in these very difficult circumstances. We are asking people to pray and cry out to Him, that He would hold our friends safely in His hands and place a hedge of protection around them as He makes their path straight back to us and to freedom.

US Issues Haiti Travel Advisory After Two Individuals Kidnapped Amid rising security concerns in Haiti, a New Hampshire woman working for a nonprofit organization in the country and her young daughter have been reported as victims of kidnapping. The U.S. State Department has taken precautionary measures by issuing a “do not travel advisory” for Haiti and instructing non-emergency personnel to evacuate from the area.

The State Department issue reads: Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure. On July 27, 2023, the Department of State ordered the departure of family members of U.S. government employees and nonemergency U.S. government employees. U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible by commercial or other privately available transportation options, in light of the current security situation and infrastructure challenges. U.S. citizens wishing to depart Port-au-Prince should monitor local news and only do so when considered safe.

Country Summary: Kidnapping is widespread, and victims regularly include U.S. citizens.

Kidnappers may use sophisticated planning or take advantage of unplanned opportunities, and even convoys have been attacked.

Kidnapping cases often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings. Victim’s families have paid thousands of dollars to rescue their family members.

Violent crime, often involving the use of firearms, such as armed robbery, carjackings, and kidnappings for ransom that include U.S. citizens are common. Mob killings against presumed criminals have been on the rise since late April. Travelers are sometimes followed and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince international airport. Robbers and carjackers also attack private vehicles stuck in heavy traffic congestion and often target lone drivers, particularly women. As a result, the U.S. Embassy requires its personnel to use official

transportation to and from the airport.

Protests, demonstrations, tire burning, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and can turn violent. The U.S. government is extremely limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Haiti – assistance on site is available only from local authorities (Haitian National Police and ambulance services). Local police generally lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Shortages of gasoline, electricity, medicine, and medical supplies continue throughout much of Haiti.

Public and private medical clinics and hospitals often lack qualified medical staff and even basic medical equipment and resources.

U.S. government personnel are limited only to the confined area around the Embassy and are prohibited from walking in Port-au-Prince.

U.S. government personnel in Haiti are prohibited from: Using any kind of public transportation or taxis Visiting banks and using ATMs

Driving at night Traveling anywhere between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.

Traveling without prior approval and special security measures in place.

Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks.

Arrange airport transfers and hotels in advance, or have your host meet you upon arrival.

Do not provide personal information to unauthorized individuals (e.g. people without official uniforms or credentials) located in the immigration, customs, or other areas inside or near any airports.

If you are being followed as you leave the airport, drive to the nearest police station immediately.

Travel by vehicle to minimize walking in public.

Travel in groups of at least two people.

Continued on website at www.nycaribnews.com

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WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023

Florida, US – T&T Nationals Sentenced for Arms Trafficking FLORIDA, (CMC) – A United States District Judge sentenced two Trinidad and Tobago nationals to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to smuggle goods from the country.

US Judge Steven D Merryday charged 30-year-old Tevin OBrian Oliver and 31-year-old Jameal Kaia Phillip.

Both men agreed to forfeit various firearms, ammunition and related items, which facilitated the offenses. The two men pleaded guilty to the offences on April 11.

According to their plea agreements, Oliver and Phillip were part of a ring that unlawfully exported firearms, firearms components, including upper/lower receivers and gun parts kits and related items from Florida to Trinidad and Tobago between 2019 and 2022.

The firearms, which included pistols and long rifles and related equipment, were concealed within boxing/fight equipment, speakers, and other household items to avoid detection by law enforcement and

customs authorities.

The conspirators also acquired firearms from different sellers through straw purchases, falsely representing the identities of the actual purchasers and recipients of the firearms as well as their ultimate destination.

The court heard that on or about April 7, 2021, Oliver shipped a package concealing and containing various firearms and related equipment, including a Taurus G2C 9mm pistol, a SAR Arms SAR-9 9mm pistol, a Taurus G3 9mm pistol, and a Ruger Security-9 9mm pistol, from Miami, Florida to Trinidad and Tobago.

Authorities in Trinidad seized those firearms and other related items that had been concealed in the shipment at Piarco International Airport on or about April 22, 2021.

“Dismantling this illicit weapons trafficking network makes a significant impact toward lowering crime and gun violence in Trinidad and Tobago, and the Caribbean,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kristopher Pagitt.

T&T – PM Shocked About Criminals in Politics

Prime Minister Keith Rowley expressed shock that criminal conduct is no longer seen by some people as debarring them from being politicians.

Speaking during a television interview on Thursday, Dr. Rowley addressed the crime rate and said he remains prepared to work with the Opposition and other stakeholders to find ways to curb crime.

He shared that since the PNM returned to office, the UNC refuses to cooperate with them to find bipartisan solutions to crime.

Rowley also said no government can be efficiently run on the basis of “rampant populism.”

“It has gotten to the point where certain politicians see the country’s success as the government’s success, especially if they are in power”.

He said he never envisioned himself in the political arena with people “for whom criminal conduct is not a disqualifier.” He recalled when he first entered politics in 1987 as an opposition senator.

“These sentences demonstrate the commitment of HSI alongside our federal and Caribbean nation partners and the US Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, to be steadfast in investigating and shutting down illegal firearms smuggling from the US,” he added.

The case was investigated by HSI including HSI’s Attaché (Caribbean) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Caribbean country, Ministry of National Security and T&T Police Service as well as US Citizenship and Immigration Services.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, US Customs and Border Protection and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs were also involved in the investigation.

“This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach,” the US authorities said.

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023

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Malcolm X Was Murdered – New Witness Claims Proof

Nationally-renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump and co-counsel Ray Hamlin held news conference on Tuesday 25 discussing bombshell developments in the alleged assassination conspiracy of Malcolm X, including information from a key witness who is speaking out for the first time and has objective evidence to corroborate the information he will share.

Speaking at the Audubon Ballroom on West 165th Street in Manhattan where Malcolm was killed, Crump said, “The government was involved in the conspiracy to kill Malcolm X.” Malcom X was assassinated on February 21, 1965, at age 39 while speaking at the Audubon Ballroom. He was shot a total of 21 times in front of his wife and daughters.

For years, theorists have believed that the

government was involved in his death, and revelations in recent years have added more fuel to the fire. Statements from former Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance in 2021 that then-FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover ordered witnesses to not tell investigators they were federal informants have proved this.

In a court affidavit that was released to the public, Mustafa Hassan, 84, said he was a member of the Malcolm X’s Organization of African American Unity and was part of the security detail on the day of the fatal shooting.

He said that after a “series of gunshots” at the Audubon Ballroom he encountered a man “running down the aisle towards the exit where I had been posted with a gun in his hand.”

Hassan claimed he knocked down the man, and identified him as Talmadge X. Hayer, the

individual eventually convicted of the killing, along with two other men, Muhammad Aziz (aka Thomas Hagen) and Khalil Islam, who died in 2009.

Moments later, Hassan said he saw Hayer outside, and heard one police officer ask another, “Is he one of ours?” in reference to Hayer. That question, said Hassan, made it clear that Hayer was an informant. He had no doubt.

Muhammad Aziz and Khalil Islam, who died in 2009, were both exonerated in 2021.

In February of this year, attorneys for the family filed a notice of claim with intent to sue the NYPD and government agencies for the alleged assassination and fraudulent concealment of evidence surrounding Malcolm X’s murder.

Black Civil Rights Leaders to Convene March on Washington This August

WASHINGTON – In wake of the Supreme Court’s continued campaign against democracy and civil rights, Black leaders will bring together a large coalition for the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington this August.

Rev. Al Sharpton, Martin Luther King, III, and Arndrea Waters King will lead a coalition of 60 national organizations across racial, cultural, and generational lines to commemorate this pivotal event at the Lincoln Memorial on August 26th.

The demonstration will come just two months after the Supreme Court gutted affirmative action in higher education and chipped away at LGBTQ+ rights – just one year after the bench rolled back longstanding abortion protections under Roe v. Wade. A coalition of right-leaning attorneys general immediately seized on the affirmative action ruling – warning Corporate America that any personnel decisions based on race or related factors would qualify as discrimination.

Black civil rights leaders have been steadfast in their fight to protect decades worth of rights won through organizing, marching, and voting.

The nation’s legacy civil rights organizations – ADL, Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC, Human Rights Commission, Lawyers’

Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, Legal Defense Fund, NAACP, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, National Council of Negro Women, National Urban League and UNIDOS – have signed on as co-chairs of the March.

Criminal justice reform and the impact it can have on Black communities has been a core pillar of the National Action Network’s work since Rev. Sharpton founded the organization in 1991 with the support of the King family. Over the last decade, Rev. Sharpton has delivered the eulogy for several dozen Black men and women unjustly killed by law enforcement. He delivered a clarion call for real, systemic change during the 2020 funeral of George Floyd, which was attended by the King family, which set the tone for the 2020 March on Washington later that summer. The Kings have also been on the forefront of protecting the right to vote, including leading the effort to pass the federal John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act in August 2021. They also led No Celebration Without Legislation in January 2022, with activations in almost every state.

While the March on Washington was centered around jobs and economic opportunities,

recent data from the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies (FPWA) shows Black and Brown Americans face multiple barriers. The median wealth gap between Black and white households has widened by $40,000 over the last 60 years, from $121,000 in 1963 to $161,000 today. Student debt, which overwhelmingly hits Black Americans harder, is a driving factor for this yawning gap – with limited relief in sight after the Supreme Court struck down the Biden administration’s plan to wipe as much as $20,000 per borrower.

A combination of bad policies, underinvestment, and the gutting of the Voting Rights Act and the Fair Housing Act have also driven poverty among Black and Brown Americans.

Unemployment among Black Americans remains twice as high when compared to white Americans, according to FPWA, and 1 in 3 Black children live in poverty as a result. Black and Brown women especially face the greatest economic hardships as they earn $.64 and $.55, respectively, for every $1 a white man earns.

Understanding Dr. King’s tenet that an injustice against one group is a threat to all, they have brought together a large tent of communities who are equally under attack by this concerted effort to undo these hard-won victories.

That’s why Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC, ADL, Human Rights Commission, and UNIDOS have additionally signed on as co-chairs for the demonstration.

Continued on website at www.nycaribnews. com.

Climate & Environmental Justice in Harlem: Storms, Heat & Wildfires Recent events like the Canadian wildfire smoke demonstrate how air quality gains can be eroded by climate change, having a disproportionate impact on communities already struggling with heat, air quality concerns, and their associated health impacts. What is the government doing to address these risks and get at the root causes of our climate crisis? How can community organizations and residents partner with local businesses, academic organizations, and government to cause real change in policy and outcomes? Learn more on the challenge and the opportunities to empower communities to lead the way into a cleaner, safer, healthier future.

Free and open to the public. For more information, please visit the event webpage.

When: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 5:30pm Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Harlem State Office Building, 163 W. 125 St., New York, NY 10027 Room/Area: 2nd Floor Art Gallery Keynote Speakers: • Dr. Vincent Boudreau, President, The City College of New York • Peggy Shepard, Co-Founder and Executive Director,WE ACT for Environmental Justice Panel: Moderator: Daniel Zarrilli, Special Advisor for Climate and Sustainability, Columbia University.

Panelists: • Robbie Parks, Assistant Professor of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University • Donna Walker-Kuhne, Esq, The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Legal Committee

• Chris Rice, NYC Mayor’s Office, Senior Advisor, Environmental Justice, NYC Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice • Tasfia Nayem, Chief of Staff, 5BORO Institute • Rossalyn Quaye, Project Manager, State Regulatory Affairs, Con Edison

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WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023

Reparations for Slavery – Africa and Caribbean Join Forces

TIME Magazine’s front page declaration “Slavery Reparations Are Coming”, has consciously foregrounded the epicenter roles of Barbados, The University of the West Indies and its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles who is internationally recognized as the global iconic face of the movement.

Last week, representatives from various African and Caribbean entities joined forces at a historic event in Bridgetown, Barbados to demand reparations for slavery and its legacy in today’s society.

The University of the West Indies (UWI), the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union (AU), Barbados’ government, grant-making network Open Society Foundations and the Caribbean Pan African Network teamed up to “call for reparations for historical crimes”.

Attendees included ambassadors and representatives from AU member states and the Caribbean Community political and economic union (CARICOM).

The recent coverage in TIME bears witness that the world is on the cusp of a major structural transition driven by reparatory justice, an inspired development jointly effected by the Caribbean’s only indigenous, world-ranked university and its CARICOM partners.

The UWI, wholly owning its mission as an activist university celebrates the activism that has placed it at the pinnacle of the global reparations movement, seeking justice and driving a new development paradigm for the region. Concretising the University’s role at the epicentre of this growing global movement, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, whose research features in the TIME’s article says, “The UWI continues to be at the forefront of justice conversations, including the battle for reparations to be made to peoples of the Caribbean. These are owed by colonial powers, as compensation for their historical crimes of native genocide and African enslavement, through which these powers have amassed great wealth, and from which they still profit.”

In July 2013 Caribbean leaders at the 34th CARICOM Summit agreed to pursue

reparations from Britain, based on representation made by Professor Sir Hilary Beckles. Two months later, at its first Reparations summit in September 2013, CARICOM identified Sir Hilary to lead its CARICOM Reparations Commission (CRC) as Chairman. Under his leadership, the CRC has taken the reparations discourse across the globe — to the British House of Lords and the US Congress, and to universities in Europe, North America and Africa to name a few.

The UWI, under Vice-Chancellor Beckles, established a Centre for Reparations Research (CRR) based on a mandate of the 34th meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government. The CRR, with Professor Verene Shepherd at the helm, leads the implementation of CARICOM’s Reparatory Justice Programme – promoting research on the legacies of enslavement, colonialism and native genocide in the Caribbean; working with national and regional

reparation commissions and committees to promote education on these legacies and the need for justice and repair; and promoting advocacy for reparatory and social justice by

publishing reparatory-justice focused research, building a capacity to provide consultancies to CARICOM and other relevant institutions, raising public awareness through media, and supporting activism around the Reparatory Justice Programme.

As The UWI marks its 75th anniversary year, Vice-Chancellor Beckles notes that it was started as a reparatory justice institution to address the harmful public health legacy of slavery. He distinguishes that The UWI has participated fully in the reparatory justice movement because of its ethical responsibility.

With social justice as part of its core, The UWI, in 2019, ushered in the first-ever Caribbean Reparatory Justice initiative in partnership with the University of Glasgow (UoG) in Scotland to create the Glasgow-Caribbean Centre for Development Research, built upon a negotiated

20-year commitment of a £20 million investment as part of an inaugural global reparations development framework.

This September, as an extension of that relationship, The UWI and UoG prepare to launch a joint MA/MSc in Reparatory Justice with a specific focus on the Caribbean and the slavery reparations movement.

The UWI has also been at the front and centre of two landmark individual family apologies and reparatory initiatives. The first from Bridget Freeman, whose family married into the Barbados slave-owning class, was a contribution of US$500,000 to the University’s development fund—through its 2021 Global Giving campaign, earmarking her gift as part of reparations that should be paid by those who benefitted from the crime against humanity. In February 2023, British-American BBC anchor/ correspondent, Laura Trevelyan delivered an apology, signed by 104 members of her family and the descendants of the part owners of six slave-owning plantations in Grenada. Laura Trevelyan’s personal contribution of £100,000 was pledged to establish an education fund for The UWI Open Campus.

Later this month, from July 24 to 29, The UWI in collaboration with partner agencies – African Union-Economic Social and Cultural Council (AU-ECOSOCC), CARICOM, Africa Judges And Jurist Forum (AJJF), Open Society Foundations and the Government of Barbados – will co-host a high-level study tour which brings together Ambassadors and representatives from selected Member States of the African Union, Pan-African academics, advocates, practitioners and campaigners in Africa, who have worked on or are working on issues related to reparations, healing and Pan -Africanism to draw lessons and learnings from their Caribbean counterparts on how to develop a unified front on reparations for historical crimes. It underscores the strategic relevance for Africa to serve as a leading voice for reparations by coalescing with ally nations in the Caribbean community.

Transition and Trajectories in Pan African Development This Congress pressed for decolonization of Africa and first enunciated the vision of a liberated and united global Africa, closely linked with the diaspora. The landmark World Conference Against Racism held in Durban, South Africa in August/ September 2001; the observance by the United Nations of the Bicentennial of the Abolition of the Trans-Atlantic Trade in captive Africans in 2007; and the Global African Diaspora Summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa in May 2012 should also be recalled as important historical markers.

We stand on the shoulders of many great Pan-Africanists whose vision and philosophy continue to guide our path to selfdetermination, such as Marcus Mosiah Garvey, National Hero of Jamaica, who articulated a vision for a new world, where all people of African origin are united, economically self-sufficient, and proud of their race.

Important Pan-African thought leaders include CLR James, Kwame Nkrumah and Jomo Kenyatta, Aime Cesaire, George Padmore, Henry Sylvester- Williams and Dudley Thompson.

I must also recognise the tireless efforts of former Prime Minister of Jamaica, Mr. P. J. Patterson through the Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy at The University of the West Indies, Mona, and Dr. Ralph Henry, Chairman of the Pan African Enterprise Research Council.

There is still much work to be done. More than half a century

after formal independence, it is evident that Africa and its diaspora, including of course in the Caribbean, have yet to enjoy full political, economic, social, cultural and environmental freedom and sovereignty.

In 2013, two years ahead of the start of the International Decade for People of African Descent, at a meeting in Trinidad and Tobago, Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community unanimously resolved to pursue reparations for Native Genocide and Slavery from Europe on behalf of the people of the region.

This led to the establishment of the CARICOM Reparations Commission, constituted by the membership of Chairpersons from national committees in 12 Member States, which has recently been expanded to include several civil society organisations.

This CARICOM initiative is building on long standing civil society activism by Pan-Africanists who have called for reparations for the crippling legacy of genocide against the first peoples of the region and centuries of enslavement and colonialism, with the attendant de-humanizing ideology of racism that continues to affect African people. This protracted period of exploitation is at the core of the contemporary reality of marginalization and persistent poverty which is highest among people of indigenous and African descent.

Systemic inequality and racism have more recently been starkly manifested in the devastating socioeconomic impact of the

COVID-19 pandemic, which has compounded long standing inequities in access to decent employment, education, health care, housing, other social services and importantly – to justice.

Continued on the website at www.nycaribnews.com

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CARIBEDITORIAL

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023

From the Publisher and the President Jamaica Celebrating 61 Years of Independence

As Jamaica is celebrating its 61st Anniversary of Independence the motto that has been chosen for this year’s celebration is ‘Jamaica 61 Proud and Strong’, and certainly it’s a motto that has some significance for the country, because yes, the country has provided some strong leaders and strong individuals and there is much to be proud of.

And so in celebration, we can remind ourselves of these achievements, but we must also be prepared to meet the challenges of today with strength and with integrity, and to produce a proud nation.

As we look in the 61 years of Independence, Jamaica has produced strong leadership that has guided the ship of government with determination, imagination, commitment, and with a great degree of wisdom and has guided the ship of Jamaica through many turbulent waters to a point where we can be proud of where we are as a country and the possibility to make significant progress.

We must remind the youth that to have made it through the 61 years, Jamaica has come through with strong and tested leaders with strength, proud individuals from Norman Washington Manley thru Sir Alexander Bustamante, followed by Donald Sangster, The Hon. Hugh Shearer, Michael Manley and the Hon. Edwards Seaga, The Honorable P.J. Patterson and the first and only woman Prime Minister of Jamaica, The Honorable Portia Simpson, and the former Prime Minister, the Honorable Bruce Golding and the current Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

And so 61 years of stewardship have steadied Jamaica’s direction and has built a strong brand globally for Jamaica in several areas and have guided this country to be recognized for its many

positive attributes around the world.

The Jamaica Independence movement has strong support in the Jamaican diaspora for years, and served as a catalyst for political activities and independence movement drive.

Almost 30 years before Independence, The Jamaica Progressive League in New York was very active in organizing awareness issues universal adult suffrage for Jamaica, and through many years funding and advocating for political and economic independence. They were stalwarts like W. Domingo, and W. A. Roberts, President of the Historical Society, who spent a tremendous amount of effort and time organizing the Independence movement in Jamaica.

Today, the Jamaican diaspora still serves as a strong support for Jamaica and Jamaica’s potential, and should not be overlooked, but should be embraced in a constructive way to help to further its growth and development.

The Diaspora and its remittances has served as one of the mainstays of Jamaican economic strength, and should be acknowledged for that, and not only acknowledged, but to be allowed to continue to expand its self-support and development for the country.

So through the 61 years, Jamaica has established in the world, a solid brand with support of Jamaicans at home and abroad, and these elements need to be admired, respected and certainly play a role in Jamaica as it faced many challenges.

Individually and collectively, Jamaicans have established and developed a reputation of forward-making significant contributions wherever they might reside and also making sure that their homeland is well provided for, providing as we

mentioned billions of dollars in remittances back to Jamaica.

So there is an essential ingredient for a country to take up and to, in the motto of this year, be strong and proud.

However, there are many obstacles to overcome. Jamaica currently faces a tremendous challenge with respect to crime and violence. Violent crime in on the rise, and so is the rate of murder. Corruption at all levels of the country’s operation is having a negative impact. Financial institutions are suffering from scamming. Returning residents are plagued by safety and security issues, and gangs have a significant role to play in what is happening in the country and need to be controlled.

And then of course, you are faced with the danger of climate change, which is a steep hill to climb for the region and, in fact, for the world, but Jamaicans again are a strong and resilient people, and we can look to playing a significant role as we look internationally to come to solutions of this existential problem of climate change. So as we look to the future, we must look for a determined and visionary leadership with the discipline and commitment to bring about the effort that is needed to climb the hill that Jamaica faces, not only Jamaica, but several of the Caribbean countries.

Jamaica is not short of talent and the absolute goodwill among Jamaicans at home and abroad to solve these problems to work on them; so as we celebrate Jamaica and we celebrate its strength and pride, we want to look to these attributes as we face challenges that the country must resolve.

Carib News as it does every year has on display strong and proud Jamaican-Americans with aspirational stories and inspira-

CARIB NEWS THE VOICE OF THE CARIBBEAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY

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tional achievement and Carib News looks at these Jamaican-Americans in the way of their contribution to their adopted homeland, their birth and heritage homeland, and to identify and celebrate what is now known as the Jamaican-American Power 100 where people making a significant difference in the country and around the world, and people who we can also identify as leaders, for not only the current effort in Jamaica, but also serve as role models for the future.

Yes, Jamaicans are strong and proud people and we need to give credit for that as we urge strong and proud people to apply that strength and pride to solving those present problems that we now face, and that our future independence celebrations can be continued to be joyous and positive and continue to show Jamaica in its highest light.

Currently, Jamaican-Americans are in very high places in the United States. From Vice President Kamala Harris to Congress member Yvette Clarke, Sheila Lee Jackson, also a member of the US Congress, and several members in the Biden Administration are of Jamaican heritage. These are just a few examples of the people serving the diaspora not only in the US, but also in Canada and around the world.

So yes, there is much to be proud of, and much strength that has been shown.

We extend hearty congratulations to Jamaica and Jamaicans on the 61st Anniversary of Independence and we applaud and celebrate Jamaica POWER 100 who make us so proud and let us remain forever, hopeful celebrating 61 years strong and proud.

KARL B. RODNEY PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF TONY BEST SENIOR EDITOR KARLISA RODNEY NEWS EDITOR MELL P MANAGING EDITOR

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Jamaican“POWER American 100”

HORACE E. ANDERSON, JR. Dean Professor of Law, Pace University

MONTY ALEXANDER Grammy-nominated Pianist/Entertainer

Horace E. Anderson Jr. is the ninth dean of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, appointed in December 2019. Prior to this appointment, Dean Anderson had been serving as Haub Law’s interim dean. The law school has been thriving under his leadership, with increased enrollment and application numbers and successful new programs, including the expansion of its part-time J.D. program to include an evening and weekend option.

Grammy-nominated pianist Monty Alexander is a musical classic, touring the world relentlessly with various projects, delighting a global audience drawn to his vibrant personality and soulful message. A perennial favorite at Jazz festivals and venues worldwide and at the Montreux Jazz Festival where he has appeared 23 times since 1976, his spirited conception is one informed by the timeless verities: endless melody-making, effervescent grooves, sophisticated voicings, a romantic spirit, and a consistent predisposition.

GINA BELAFONTE Founder/Executive Director, Sankofa.org An artivist, actor, director, and producer, Gina is the Founder and Executive Director of Sankofa.org, a social justice organization that elevates the voices of disenfranchised people, and promotes peace, justice, and equality.

She has spent her life in the confluence of entertainment and activism. She has spoken at events focusing on issues from dyslexia, to nonviolent direct action, to Black women’s empowerment. She was the lead producer of the award-winning documentary “Sing Your Song” that explores the life and legacy of her father Harry Belafonte.

MILOVAN BLAIR Senior VP for Operations, Con Edison As Senior VP for Operations, Blair is in charge of a team of 3500 responsible for planning, designing, operating and maintaining the company’s electric transmission system, substations, primary control center, steam generating plants, steam distribution system, and engineering and construction activities. He sees major challenges ahead in the intersection of sustainability and new technology. Blair dedicates his personal time to mentoring young people, leading education, and investing in the community. He serves on the several boards.

RENEE BOWEN Senior Economic Advisor, Biden Harris Administration Renee Bowen is a Professor at the UC San Diego, School of Global Policy and Strategy (GPS) and the Department of Economics. Between 2008 and 2017 Renee was an Assistant Professor at Stanford Graduate School of Business. Renee’s research focuses on Political Economy, Microeconomic Theory and International Trade. She has been a consultant at the World Bank working on international trade policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, and was an Investment Banking Analyst at J.P. Morgan Securities working with emerging markets.

LLOYD W. BROWN, II Managing Director & Head, CRA Regulatory Group Lloyd Brown II has been elected chair of The Executive Leadership Council (ELC), the preeminent global membership organization for Black current and former CEOs, senior executives, and board members of Fortune 1000 and equivalent companies, top-tier entrepreneurs, and global thought leaders. He works with business heads across the firm to establish CRA lending, investment, and service goals, which exceed $10 billion annually.

DR. BASIL BRYAN Distinguished Diplomat/Scholar/Author The Hon. Dr. Basil Bryan was Consul General for Jamaica in New York from 1998 to 2007 with responsibility for 38 states, including the Tri-state area of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Bermuda and Puerto Rico also fell under his jurisdiction. He also served as Deputy Ambassador in the Jamaican Embassy in Washington D.C. A community oriented person, his achievements brought him numerous accolades and awards. He has authored several publications, including “Social Service Reading and Workbook”.

BRANDON BLACKWOOD Designer, ESP Purse Blackwood spent most of his upbringing between New York City and Tokyo. He developed an affinity for fashion and design at a young age, and made hand-sewn bags as gifts for his friends in middle and high school. He secretly pursued fashion when his family thought he was sudying neuroscience, and interned at Bergdorf Goodman and Elle Magazine, in addition to working with a manufacturer to make custom handbags for himself. His handbag empire is on track to book $30 million in revenue.

RUSCHELL BOONE Award-winning Reporter, Spectrum News 1 Ruschell Boone is an award-winning reporter, anchor, and talk show host at NY1 News. In 2016, she made City & State’s top 50 list as one of the most influential people in Queens. Ruschell joined the station in 2002 and has covered a number of major news stories including the 2016 bombing in Manhattan, the 2016 Presidential Election, the growing homeless problem in NYC, and the New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square.

ANTHONY BROWN Member of US Congress - Maryland Anthony Gregory Brown is an American lawyer and politician, who is serving as the U.S. Representative for Maryland’s 4th congressional district. The district covers most of the majority-black precincts in Prince George’s County, as well as a sliver of Anne Arundel County.

The son of immigrants and raised in a home where his father was the first in the family to ever attend college, Congressman Brown was taught the value of service at a young age. Through his military and public service, Anthony has devoted his life to serving his community and defending our nation.

TASHANY BROWN Founder - Nueratrend Maids, Painting & Cleaning Tashany Brown founded Nueratrend Maids in 2011, a professional interior residential and commercial fullservice cleaning and painting services company. We offer affordable, top-the-art cleaning, organizing, and painting services to homes, residential facilities, hotels, and offices. The company was recognized twice for Best of Brooklyn Cleaning Service, in 2018 and 2019, by Expertise.com, and was the first to be a part of Amazon’s Home Cleaning Services program in 2015.

ORVILLE RICHARD BURRELL aka SHAGGY Award-winning Entertainer/Philanthropist Shaggy is a Grammy Award-winning musician, singer, and DJ. He is also a former United States Marine who had served in the Persian Gulf War. He embarked on a musical career after being discharged from the military.

His first hit song was the single ‘Oh Carolina,’ a remake of the 1958 song by the Folkes Brothers. He gained popularity with his song ‘Boombastic’ from his album of the same name. He established himself as one of the top Reggae musicians in the US in the ensuing years.

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“POWER Jamaican American 100”

ORELIA MERCHANT Judge, US District Court, East New York

WAYNE MESSAM Mayor, City of Miramar

Orelia Eleta Merchant is an American lawyer who serves as a United States district judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. She previously served as chief deputy attorney general for state counsel in the New York Attorney General’s Office. From 1998 to 2002, Merchant served as Assistant Regional Counsel in the United States Environmental Protection Agency. She was her nominated was sent to the Senatein 2022.

Mayor Messam is a first-generation American, born to Jamaican parents. Raised in South Bay, Florida, he is a lifelong athlete who proudly attended Florida State University on a full scholarship where he excelled both on and off the football field. He was a member of the 1993 National Championship Team under coach Bobby Bowden and had a brief stint in the National Football League as a Cincinnati Bengal. A Licensed General Contractor and LEED-Accredited Professional, Mayor Messam is a prominent professional in the construction industry

WES MOORE Democratic Primary Gubernatorial Candidate, Maryland ZELLNOR MYRIE New York State Senator Brooklyn

Democratic Primary Gubernatorial Candidate Wes Moore is a social entrepreneur, decorated army combat veteran, and bestselling author. He is the author of The Other Wes Moore and The Work, instant New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers that captured the nation’s attention on what draws the line between success and failure in our communities. He is the former CEO of one of the nation’s largest anti-poverty organizations, has devoted his life’s work to a basic principle: no matter your start in life, you deserve an equal opportunity to succeed – a job you can raise a family on, a future you can look forward to.

Senator Zellnor Y. Myrie is a Brooklyn native and affordable housing advocate serving the 20th Senate District. During his first legislative session, Senator Myrie served in leadership roles on several major legislative victories. Having grown up in a rent-stabilized apartment at the epicenter of the affordable housing crisis, Senator Myrie was honored to co-lead the Senate’s Housing Reform Working Group, which produced New York’s strongest affordable housing and tenant protection laws in generations.

DR.CLAIRE NELSON Ph.D. Futurist, Sustainability Engineer, Social Entrepreneur

ANDREW MORRIS President/CEO, Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace

Dr. Claire Nelson has been actively engaged in the business of international development for more than twenty-five years.

She works in the area of project development and management, with a particular focus on private sector development.

She is the first Jamaican woman to earn a Doctorate degree in an engineering discipline and the only black in her graduating class.

Andrew Morris, President, and CEO is a community stalwart with many accolades to his name, dating as far back from 2003 to 2018. An immigrant from Jamaica, he joined his family in the Bronx, New York in 1979. He enrolled in college and worked several jobs – foot massager, Textbook Editor for MacMillan-McGraw-Hill, and a Project Manager at Newsday, before venturing into the world of entrepreneurship.

ORLANDO PATTERSON Professor of Sociology, Harvard University

President/CEO, Prospect Cleaning Service, Inc.

INGRID MURRAY

Orlando Patterson, a historical and cultural sociologist, is the John Cowles Professor of Sociology at Harvard University.

He previously held faculty appointments at the University of the West Indies, his alma mater, and the London School of Economics where he received his Ph.D. He has written on the cultural sociology of sports, especially the game of cricket. He is the author of numerous academic papers and 6 major academic books.

Murray, a Jamaica native is CEO of Prospect Cleaning Service, a family owned business whose has over 20 years experience. Located in the east Flatbush Community in Brooklyn, The company prides itself on the longstanding relationships it creates. Murray is philanthropic, donating funds annually to Jamaica for school children, as well as scholarships to help students achieve their academic goals.

CLAUDETTE POWELL, RN Distinguished Nursing Professional, J’ca Diaspora Health Representative

DAVID A. PATERSON

Claudette Powell a registered nurse with administrative experience in hospital and community programs. Currently, she’s a health care consultant in compliance and regulatory affairs. Claudette’s strong passion for health and volunteerism, led her to venture and participate in wide range of activities. Recipient of the Governor General’s Award for excellence in the diaspora.

55th Governor NYC

David Paterson is an American politician and member of the Democratic Party who was the 55th governor of New York, succeeding Eliot Spitzer and serving out nearly three years of Spitzer’s term from March 2008 to 2010. He is the first legally blind person to be sworn in as governor of a U.S. state, and is the first African American to serve as governor of New York.

SHERYL LEE RALPH

AMBASSADOR N. NICK PERRY

‘Abbott Elementary’ star Sheryl Lee Ralph made her breakthrough role as Deena Jones in the Broadway musical Dreamgirls in 1981, for which she received a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. You may know her as Dee Mitchell on TV show, Moesha, and Florence Watson in the film, Sister Act 2. An AIDS activist, she is founder of The DIVA Foundation, created to remember the many friends she lost to HIV/AIDS and to break the silence and erase the stigma.

Noah Nickolas, “Nick,” Perry was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to be the Ambassador to Jamaica on March 10, 2022. He is the first person born in Jamaica to hold this position. Nick Perry, is a former New York State Assemblyman. He represented the 58th district for thirty years. The 58th district includes parts of East Flatbush, Canarsie, Brownsville and Crown Heights. He was first elected to the New York State Assembly in 1992. He was also Regional Vice Chairman of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.

Actress/AIDS Activist

US Ambassador to Jamaica

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Jamaicans Encouraged to Participate in Independence Activities

Jamaicans at home and abroad are being invited to participate in activities to mark the country’s 61st year of Independence, under the theme: ‘Jamaica 61… Proud and Strong’.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange said a range of activities are slated to be held from August 1 to 5 at the National Arena.

“The invaluable contributions of our freedom fighters will be recognized during our annual Emancipation and Independence Celebrations. I am inviting all of you to come and buy your produce there and to have good Jamaican breakfast and enjoy the display we have there,” she said.

The Minister was speaking at the National Independence and Emancipation Day Church Service held on July 30, at the Waltham Park New Testament Church of God in Kingston.

The church service included bible readings

by Prime Minister the Most Hon. Andrew Holness and Opposition Leader, Mark Golding.

Meanwhile, the Festival Village at the National Arena will be the centre of activities for festival.

On Emancipation Day, the ‘Augus

Mawning’ market will be held at the venue starting at 6:00 a.m., to be followed by the crowning of the National Festival Queen at 6:00 p.m.

On Wednesday, August 2, the Jamaica Praise and Gospel Star Final Show will be held at the Village starting at 8:00 p.m., and Thursday, August 3, will be the staging of the popular ‘Mello-go-roun’ featuring the best talents from this year’s JCDC festival of the arts programme.

Friday, August 4, will be Reel and Come Again (Film Night in the Village).

Old Skool Party – the School Uniform Edition, will take place on Saturday, August 5 and Sunday, August 6, will be the staging of the Independence Grand Gala at the National Stadium beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Emancipation Jubilee will take place at Seville Heritage Park in St. Ann on Monday, July 31 beginning at 7:00 p.m.

For more information, persons may visit the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s (JCDC) website at www.jcdc.gov. jm.

Photo: YHOMO HUTCHINSON

Massive Jamaica 61 Celebrations in the US

Jamaicans in the United States (US) are celebrating Jamaica’s 61st anniversary of independence, with a slew of events to take place in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia and New York.

The activities have been organised by the Embassy of Jamaica, the Consulate in New York, honorary consuls, and various diaspora organisations.

The festivities got underway on Friday (July 28) with the Rochester New York Jamaica Organization’s anniversary ball, which was addressed by Ambassador to the US, Her Excellency Audrey Marks.

On Sunday (July 30), the Embassy of Jamaica will host a Service of Thanksgiving at the Sligo Seventh Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland at 11:00 a.m, where Ambassador Marks will give the

official welcome and deliver the Prime Minister’s message.

Among the special guests are Maryland’s Governor, Wes Moore, who is of Jamaican parentage, members of the diplomatic corps, elected officials, and representatives of international organisations.

On August 19, the Jamaica Association of Maryland will stage its Jamaica 61 gala under the patronage of Ambassador Marks.

The event will be held at Martin’s West ballroom commencing at 8:00 p.m.

Led by Jamaica’s Honorary Consul, Christopher Chaplin, Jamaicans in Philadelphia will celebrate with a flag-raising ceremony on August 4 at the City Hall in Philadelphia commencing at 10:30 am.

On August 13, the Jamaican Diaspora Pastors of the Great State of Pennsylvania will hold a church service at the First

African Baptist Church, 6700 Lansdow Avenue, commencing at 4:00 pm.

In New York, the Jamaica 61 celebrations will take place on Independence Day, Sunday (August 6) with a church service at the New Life Tabernacle in Brooklyn beginning at 4:00 pm.

Jamaica’s Consul General in New York, Alsion Wilson, will deliver welcome remarks.

The Consulate will continue its celebrations with a grand Independence Gala on August 19 at the New York Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan. The function is expected to recognise seven outstanding Jamaicans including award winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph and Grammy Award winning recording artist, Orville “Shaggy” Burrell.

Over in New Jersey, there will be a thanksgiving service on August 13 to celebrate the Jamaica Organization of New Jersey’s 25th anniversary and Jamaica’s Independence, at the New Hope Baptist Church commencing at 4:00 pm.

On August 26, the organisation will stage its 25th anniversary and Independence Awards Gala at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Newark.

The guest speaker will be Ambassador Marks, and US Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and Comedian Oliver Samuels will be recognised.

In Atlanta, Georgia, the Atlanta Jamaica Association will stage its annual Independence Ball and Scholarship Awards at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway Hotel on August 12, and on August 13, the Benevolent Missions of Atlanta will hold its annual fundraising brunch at the Mayfair Tower.

On August 20, starting at 3:00 pm, the Jamaican community in Atlanta will participate in an ecumenical thanksgiving church service at the Peachtree Road United Methodist Church.

The country’s rich musical heritage will be showcased at ‘Jamaica Fest’ at the Veterans Plaza in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland on September 17 beginning at noon.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to facilitate these events, along with our partners and friends who have contributed to Jamaica’s development over the years,” said Ambassador Marks.

“I hope that all Jamaicans in the diaspora will continue the great tradition of sharing the Jamaican spirit. I encourage all Jamaicans and friends to embrace this year’s theme: ‘Jamaica 61…Proud and Strong,’ in celebration of Jamaica, land we love,” she added.

Photo: DERRICK SCOTT (JIS)

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Guyana – Could Be Electric Vehicles Manufacturing Hub

Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng met with Guyana President Irfaan Ali and his delegation on Wednesday. Ali took the opportunity to make a case for Guyana to become a manufacturing hub for electrical vehicles (EV), saying, “We do not want Guyana only to be a selling hub for your products, we want Guyana to be an important manufacturing hub for your products.”

“We want Guyana to be a natural choice as your partner in developing your industries, in moving to manufacturing and industrial development… having electronic vehicles manufactured in Guyana…for the [Latin America and Caribbean] region,” President Ali said.

Gong introduced the economic and social development of Shanghai and said that currently, Shanghai is deepening the construction of international economic, financial, trade, shipping, and scientific innovation centers in accordance with President Xi Jinping’s development positioning for Shanghai. Shanghai is accelerating the construction of a socialist modern international metropolis with world influence.

To prove how serious he is about the manufacturing of EVs, President Ali said his government is ready to “build a shell, to invest in a shell, to host such a facility in Guyana and to have the private sector maybe have a stake in the project.”

President Ali said he is ready to expedite this process.

Ali told the Mayor, “I am willing to commit resources to build the shell to accommodate such an investment to push development in Guyana.” The President said he is willing to designate an area as the ‘Shanghai Industrial manufacturing hub.’

Although China and Guyana are far apart, their friendship is long-lasting. As the window of China’s reform and opening up, Shanghai hopes to use the opportunity of jointly building high-quality “Belt and Road” to further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with Guyana.

In terms of economic and trade investment cooperation, Guyana’s participation in the China International Import Expo is warmly welcomed, and practical cooperation will

be carried out in areas such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.

In terms of green and low-carbon development, Shanghai looks forward to learning from each other and expanding cooperation in this area.

In terms of cultural and tourism cooperation, Gong hoped to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and let more citizens appreciate Guyana’s beautiful natural landscape and diverse cultural heritage, building a bridge of friendship between the two places.

Ali said that since Guyana established diplomatic relations with China more than 50 years ago, cooperation in various fields has continued to deepen, and people’s friendship has continued to develop. Cooperation with China has promoted Guyana’s transformation and development.

Guyana has rich oil and gas resources and hopes to play a more important role in areas such as climate change, environment, food, and food safety. Guyana looks forward to deepening cooperation with Shanghai in shipbuilding, new energy vehicles, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and culture, and welcomes Chinese investors to use Guyana as a bridge to enter the South American and Caribbean regions.

Guyana also welcomes Chinese companies to establish manufacturing factories and regional headquarters in Guyana, allowing Chinese products and services to better cover the local and surrounding markets.

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Join us on Sunday, August 6, Caribbean Day Fun for the Whole Family! Live Music, Great Food, Vendors, Kids Zone, Cooking & Mixology Demonstrations, Lawn Games, Pickle Ball Games, Wine, Cider, Spirits and Beer Tent.

AUGUST 5 & 6, 2023 Saturday, 11am-6pm Sunday, 11am-5pm Tasting Tickets: $25 in Advance|$30 at Gate Designated Driver: $10 | Children under 15 are free

Wells Park, 98 Oak Street, Brewster, New York For Vendors/Volunteers/Sponsors call 845-842-0575, info@putnamcountywinefest.com

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Jamaica – Slashe’s ‘Best in the World’ is 2023 Festival Song Iceman, now known as Slashe wins the Best Festival Song 2023 with his performance of ‘Best in the World’. The finals of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) competition took place on July 29 at the National Arena in Kingston.

This is his second time winning the competition, having won in 2004.

The song beat 10 other entries for the title and a cash prize of $3 million. It was produced by veteran music producer Donovan Germain of Penthouse Music.

Speaking with with OBSERVER ONLINE on Sunday morning, Slashe said, “I was encouraged by Donovan Germain, CEO

of Penthouse to enter the competition.

He felt I had the ability to be impactful there, so I wrote two songs, he selected his favourite and here we are months later,” Slashe disclosed in an interview He recalled the moment when his name was announced as winner.

“Just gratitude, king. Just humility in soaking up the moment. Shuga and Exco Levi are my co-workers on the same label and to see us get the trifecta like that was heartwarming. They are my friends, and we all work tirelessly in the pursuit of our dreams so hearing my name called was the icing on the cake for us three,” said Slashe.

NYC – Reggae Retro Dance Party Going Outdoors

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Reggae Retro, the longest-running reggae dance party in NYC is back and taking it outdoors. Hosted in select indoor venues around Brooklyn on the first Saturday of each month, this August they are inviting everyone to join the outdoor fest at Industry City Reggae Retro was established in 2002 and is celebrating the infectious rhythms of reggae music through the years. The party has become an integral part of the vibrant NYC music scene and has cemented itself as a cultural phenomenon showcasing contri-

bution of Caribbean music and culture to the city.

After a hiatus due to the COVID19 pandemic, Reggae Retro is back – celebrating with our loyal patrons and welcoming new family.

Unlike their usual late night indoor flex, the party will take it outdoors at 7 p.m. with resident DJs prepared to bring the energy like never before. Spinning classics from the early ‘70s through the early aughts, Reggae Retro will be lyrically weaving the history of reggae music for all music lovers.

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CHTA Announces The Return of Chief to Miami FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (July 27, 2023) – The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has announced the return of the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), to be held November 29 to December 1, 2023, at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon.

CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig said the Caribbean region’s premier engagement, networking, education, and best practice sharing event for hospitality industry professionals is back, and this year delegates will explore the theme “A New Era of Caribbean Tourism: Balancing Tradition, Technology and Community”.

“We want to emphasize the region’s commitment to embracing technology while preserving its rich cultural heritage and fostering strong community ties,” said Madden-Greig, who reported that the conference will tackle issues and opportunities that are most important to the region, setting a course for wealth creation, business success and sustainable growth.

CHIEF 2023 will welcome a diverse audience, including hotel, resort, villa and Caribbean attraction owners, management executives, hospitality product and service providers, government officials, students, and other individuals interested in the region’s hospitality industry.

CHIEF was created to encourage hoteliers to invest in their teams’ development, offering multiple opportunities for advancing their understanding of trends and exposure to new products, services and methodologies implemented in the industry. Over two days, delegates will be able to attend general and breakout sessions, an innovative trade show, and other activities to complement the core program.

For suppliers and vendors, CHIEF 2023 offers a unique opportunity to display products and services and engage in one-on-one interactions with hospitality business representatives. “The event will also serve as a valuable platform for fostering business relationships and discovering innovative solutions to enhance the overall guest experience,” said Bill Clegg, Chairman of the program.

Registration opens on August 8, and rates are priced affordably at: US $525 for the first attendee US $425 for additional attendees from the same business US $995 for exhibitors Visit www.chtachief.com for more details.

YOTEL and JetBlue Are Teaming Up to Launch New Partnership the global hospitality brand known for affordable luxury without compromising comfort – announces a new partnership with JetBlue to take travel and loyalty to new heights.

Beginning August 1, 2023, the partnership will benefit all members of JetBlue’s newly relaunched TrueBlue® loyalty program.

TrueBlue members of all levels can now earn TrueBlue points on stays at YOTEL locations around the world, will be eligible for exclusive discounted room rates, and receive a complimentary amenity on arrival. TrueBlue Mosaic® members will benefit even more with complimentary room upgrades and late check-out1.

From take-off to check-in, guests will notice the intrinsic link between YOTEL and JetBlue, with both brands disrupting the status quo while continuing to showcase dedication to customer service, innovation, and comfort. JetBlue is YOTEL’s first-ever U.S. airline collaboration and will serve as YOTEL’s most elevated partnership yet.

“YOTEL’s guest experience was founded on the principles of airline travel, from our self check-in kiosks to our clever, space-saving rooms and PADs, with adjustable beds,” said Hubert Viriot, CEO, YOTEL. “We’re proud to continue to enhance our customer experience by joining forces with JetBlue. Based on shared values to challenge the status quo, the innovative partnership will provide an even deeper level of benefits for the modern, nonstop traveler in current and future markets.”

“JetBlue is proud to partner with YOTEL, a company that also values maximum comfort at a lower price, to give our TrueBlue members an elevated experience when travel-

ing to our top domestic and international destinations,” said Christopher Buckner, Vice President of Loyalty and Partnerships, JetBlue. “Through this partnership, we’re excited to offer TrueBlue members even more ways to earn points and rewards both on the ground and in the sky.”

YOTEL.com today launches a dedicated booking page for JetBlue customers to find their travel inspiration and book their stays with points & receive perks. Alternatively, customers in the U.S. can further elevate their travel experience through JetBlue’s homegrown travel booking website Paisly. com. Customers who book their YOTEL stay through Paisly not only have access to a 24/7 dedicated phone line to Paisly’s helpful humans, but they can also earn TrueBlue points on their stay, with all qualifying spend on Paisly counting toward perks and Mosaic status. Plus, TrueBlue members and Mosaics who booked their YOTEL stay through Paisly will receive an exclusive hotel perk upon arrival.

In addition to earning points and exclusive room rates, TrueBlue members will be able to enjoy JetBlue’s bespoke pre/post-flight cocktail called the Mint Condition™, made with Bombay Sapphire Gin or Tito’s Handmade Vodka, ginger, lime, cucumber, and mint; available at select YOTEL bars.

As part of the collaboration, YOTEL and JetBlue will reward customers with “surprise and delight” promotions on flights between NYC, Boston and London throughout launch week.

To earn points with JetBlue and book a stay at YOTEL, please visit: www.yotel.com/ jetblue.

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023

CARIBSPORTS

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Jamaica On The Edge of Making History Against Brazil MIAMI, Florida – The Jamaican Women’s National Team are on the edge of making history again when they face Brazil on Wednesday at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Melbourne, Australia, in the last match of Group F. The Reggae Girlz (4 points) are standing in second place in the group, meaning they would qualify for their first ever Round of 16 with a result against the third-place Brazilians (3 points).

DF Allyson Swaby led her team to their first Women’s World Cup victory ever with the winning goal in a 1-0 final with Panama. Jamaica displayed the depth of their talented squad due to the fact that star striker Khadija Shaw was out for this game.

GK Rebecca Spencer was another player that has shined through their first games, anchoring a solid defense that is yet to concede a goal.

With a win or draw, Jamaica would be writing women’s and Caribbean football history, being the first Caribbean

national team to reach the knockout round of the greatest tournament of all. But to achieve that, they have to face a team that is full of legendary players.

Brazil, who shows up with a victory and a defeat after games with Panama and France, respectively, will take the pitch with no hesitation to keep believing in their first star journey.

FW Debinha has proven that Brazil can overcome any obstacle that comes their way, and she will be prepared to play for her country alongside some of the most important names in the sport. Legend Marta has appeared in both games to help her team, her last game in a Women’s World Cup group stage being no exception.

With everything to play for and history to write, this promises to be one of the most thrilling football matches that this Women’s World Cup will witness, with both teams ready to leave everything on the pitch.

Hetmyer, Hope, Thomas Return to West Indies T20I Squad for India Series

Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer, as well as Oshane Thomas, have been recalled to the West Indies T20I squad for the fivematch series against India as they look for the “right combinations” ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be played at home in the Caribbean and the USA. From West Indies’ last T20I squad, which won 2-1 in South Africa in March, the selectors have left out Shamarh Brooks, Raymon Reifer, Yannic Cariah and Sheldon Cottrell.

Lead selector Desmond Haynes said in a press conference that Cariah and Cottrell were in the selectors’ conversations, but they chose the “express pace” of Thomas and were content with just two spinners in the squad: Roston Chase and Akeal Hosein. Haynes also urged the ground staff in the Caribbean to prepare pitches with more purchase for the fast bowlers going forward in T20Is, so that West Indies will have an advantage over certain teams at the T20 World Cup.

The provisional 15-man squad, which will travel for all the five matches - to be played from August 3 and 13 - will be trimmed to a squad of 13 for each game before a final XI is picked.

“We want people with a little bit of X-factor,” Haynes said on the inclusion of Thomas and Hope. “With Oshane, we’re looking at somebody who is going to make a difference with pace. As you know, Oshane was in the wilderness for a while, he’s come back and worked very hard. He seemed to me as though he’s very keen and really wants to get back to top shape and also to be bowling fast again. I personally think that we need to find some fast bowlers in the Caribbean and I think with the start with Oshane, I’m hoping that [it’s] time to get ready to go to Australia for the Test series [in January 2024] with six or seven fast bowlers.

“We thought that Shai is obviously batting very well and well enough to play all three competitions for West Indies.

“The squad is selected with the next ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in mind. We are looking at various plans as we try to find the right combinations. As we prepare, we are looking to build a unit which we believe can do the job when we host the global event in just under a year. We have some match-winners in our line-up and we will look to have the right kind of preparation, starting here in Trinidad on Thursday.”

Haynes added that some other players could “come into consideration going forward” depending on performances in the CPL starting on August 17.

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CARIBNEWS

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 8, 2023