108 YEARS OF LEGA
Honoring Jamaica’s leg trailblazer and WWII v
Ena Collymore-Woodstock
OD, MBE — a woman whose life bridged war, justice, public service and extraordinary firsts has died at age 108. Her passing on December 2 closes a chapter on one of Jamaica’s most remarkable and barrier-breaking figures, but her influence endures across the Caribbean’s legal and civic landscape
Born in Spanish Town on September 10, 1917, CollymoreWoodstock rose from early
hardship, becoming orphaned in her youth, to chart a path that reshaped opportunities for women in law and public leadership She attended Central Branch School and St Hugh’s High School before beginning what would become a legendary career
Her early interest in the justice system was sparked in an unexpected way: a newspaper advertisement seeking a male clerk at the Sutton Street continues on B1 – Ena Collymore-Woodstock
Broward Schools propose closing 7 campuses as enrollment declines
Broward County Public Schools is preparing for major financial and structural changes as student enrollment continues to fall, prompting district leaders to propose school closures, implement a hiring freeze and halt out-of-county travel
The district has lost thousands of students this school year alone, part of a years-long decline In 2021, Broward Schools enrolled nearly 208,000 students This year, that number has dropped to 188,000, and by 2030, enrollment is projected to fall by another 25,000
Superintendent Dr Howard Hepburn
unveiled a list of schools recommended for closure or consolidation on Monday under the district’s Redefining Our Schools initiative
The announcement came after a public meeting where parents were able to weigh in on the proposed changes
The schools under consideration include:
• North Fork Elementary School, Fort Lauderdale
• Palm Cove Elementary School, Pembroke Pines
• Panther Run Elementary School,
Pembroke Pines
• Sunshine Elementary School, Miramar
• Bair Middle School, Sunrise
• Plantation Middle School, Plantation
• Seagull Alternative High School, Fort Lauderdale
Glades Middle School in Miramar and Walter C Young Middle School in Pembroke
Pines had previously been under review but were ultimately removed from the list
District officials say the financial strain has reached a critical point
“We are short this year $94 million, which means between January and June of this year we ’ ve got to constrict considerably,” said School Board Member Allen Zeman
Board members confirmed that the district has instituted a hiring freeze and a moratorium on travel
“If 10 teachers quit today, hopefully they won’t, I pray they won’t, I can’t go out tomorrow as a district to hire new teachers
That’s how bad our financial situation has become here within this district,” said Board Member Adam Cervera
Jamaican-American Latoya Clarke elevated to Assistant Deputy Mayor in Sunrise
MUO conrms Miss Jamaica sustained brain bleed, fracture in stage accident
Diaspora, regional leader pay tribute to late Consul General Alsion Roach-Wilson
Ofcial funeral for reggae legend
Jimmy Cliff set for December 17 continues on B3 – School closures
Jamaica’s
Musician Gramps Morgan delivers a moving musical tribute during the celebra on of life service for late Consul General Alsion Roach Wilson in New Jersey on December 5th. Photo: Derrick Sco Allan
South Florida group: Nadine, Peaches, Carol and Magali at the Gold Coast Ballroom in Coconut Creek during a recent 70th birthday celebra on
Long me friends (from le ), Archie, Sharon, Marion, Peaches, Ruth, Claire and Kenny enjoying a 70th birthday event
NEWSMAKER
Jamaican-American Latoya Clarke elevated to Assistant Deputy Mayor in Sunrise
Jamaican-American community leader Latoya S. Clarke has been appointed Assistant Deputy Mayor of the City of Sunrise, marking a meaningful step in her long-standing service to the South Florida municipality she has called home since migrating from Jamaica at age 14
The City of Sunrise announced the new leadership titles on December 3, congratulating both Deputy Mayor Jacqueline A Guzman and Assistant Deputy Mayor Clarke “We are grateful for their inspiring leadership and their continued commitment to serving our diverse community with pride, passion, and dedication,” the city said in a statement
Clarke, a proud Piper High School alum, brings more than 20 years of experience in the healthcare field, where she built a reputation for strong operational leadership, cost-optimization strategies, and improving service delivery across multiple hospital centers She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida Atlantic University and a Master of Science
f r o m N o v a S o u t h e a s t e r n University’s Shepard Broad College of Law
Her public service footprint in Sunrise stretches back to 2009,
“I am committed to serving the community and understand the diverse needs within it. I am not afraid to address difficult issues and am dedicated to planning programs that are both educational and entertaining for the youth, adults, and seniors in the community.” – Clarke
when she began volunteering for the East Sunrise Residents Association (ESRA) She eventually rose to the presidency in 2019, guiding neighborhood participation in beloved community traditions such as the July 4th
Parade, the Tunes ‘N Trucks concert series, National Night Out, the Adopt-a-Street Program, and the Community Resource Fair. Clarke also previously served on the Sunrise Board of Adjustment and completed several civic programs including the Sunrise
Community Police Academy, and the Sunrise Small Business Academy each strengthening her engagement in local issues and resident needs Her commitment to community extends beyond city limits
Clarke was recently appointed to the Broward County Community
Action Agency Advisory Board, which helps shape strategies to support low-income and vulnerable families She is also active in the Florida Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials and the National League of Cities’ Women in Municipal Government constituency group Her volunteer work includes longtime involvement with the International Pentecostal City Mission Church and City Mission Family Outreach, Inc
In 2015, Clarke founded Simply Living Management, offering budgeting support, estate planning guidance, real estate transaction services, and property management an extension of her dedication to helping families build stability and generational strength
Now sworn in as Assistant Deputy Mayor for Seat A, Clarke says she is honored to continue serving a city she has helped shape for more than a decade She plans to focus on unity, sustainable community growth, and expanding opportunities for residents across Sunrise
Clarke is happily married and credits her family’s support for fueling her passion for public service
Deputy Mayor Jacqueline A Guzman, also elevated last week, joins Clarke on the city’s leadership team alongside Mayor Michael J Ryan, Commissioner Neil C Kerch, and Commissioner Joseph A Scuotto
(from L-R) Commissioner Joseph Scuotto, Deputy Mayor Jacqueline Guzman, Mayor Micheal Ryan, Assistant Deputy Mayor, Latoya Clarke, and Commissioner Neil Kerch
MUO confirms Miss Jamaica sustained brain bleed, fracture in stage accident
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has issued a new statement on the condition of Miss Jamaica, Dr Gabrielle Henry, who was seriously injured after falling through an opening on the stage during the preliminary evening gown segment of the Miss Universe competition on Nov 19
The update released on behalf of MUO and Henry’s family aims to clarify her current status after days of speculation Earlier, MUO, the Miss Universe Jamaica Organization and Henry’s sister confirmed that she had been hospitalized in the intensive care unit in Bangkok following the fall
According to Monday’s release, “Dr Henry suffered a serious fall through an opening on the stage while performing her walk during the preliminary competition on November 19, 2025, resulting in an intracranial hemorrhage with loss of consciousness, a fracture, facial lacerations and other significant injuries ”
The statement added: “She was immediately admitted to intensive care in Bangkok, where she remained in critical condition under
constant neurological monitoring, and continues to require 24-hour specialist supervision ”
An intracranial hemorrhage is a type of bleeding inside the skull and is considered a serious medical emergency, which is why Henry was placed under constant neurological monitoring in the ICU
Henry is expected to return to Jamaica “in the coming days,” where she will arrive with a full medical escort and be transferred directly to a hospital for ongoing care
MUO also said it has covered Henry’s “hospital, medical, and rehabilitation expenses” during her time in Thailand, and provided support for her mother and sister’s “accommodation and living costs ” The organization added that it is funding her medically escorted repatriation flight and has “committed to covering all future medical expenses arising from this incident ”
The release continued: “From the time the incident took place, the Miss Universe Organization has stood beside Gabrielle and
her family as if she were their own, assuming full and immediate responsibility without hesitation The Henry family is deeply grateful to the Miss Universe Organization for their unwavering compassion, presence, and love shown Their response so far has gone beyond professional responsibility and reflected devotion and protection of the family ”
MUO also addressed rumors circulating online about the cause of the accident, rejecting claims that Henry contributed to the fall “The Miss Universe Organization has never attributed blame to Dr Henry and confirms that those suggestions are unfounded and do not reflect the facts,” the statement said
Henry’s return home will mark the start of a long recovery process, but her family, supporters and the Miss Universe community continue to rally around her as she begins the next phase of treatment
Trinidad gov’t introduces bill requiring mandatory permits for fireworks use
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister
Kamla Persad-Bissessar is urging Parliament to support sweeping new regulations on fireworks, calling the Summary Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2025, a long-awaited measure to protect citizens from years of harm caused by unregulated use
Speaking on the legislation on Tuesday, the Prime Minister said the country has endured nearly a decade of trauma linked to indiscriminate fireworks from terrified children and animals to fires, injuries, property damage and hospitalisations She also referenced reports of an alleged death of a three-day-old infant
Despite repeated warnings from medical professionals, teachers, T&TEC, the
Environmental Management Authority (EMA), and advocacy groups, “ no meaningful action was taken under the former administration,” she said The legislation proposes, among other things:
• Mandatory permits for discharging fireworks except in limited holiday windows
• Restricted zones around hospitals, airports, zoos, farms, animal shelters, Forest Reserves, and National Parks Fixed-penalty tickets and increased enforcement powers for the police
• Updated evidence rules allowing mobile recordings in prosecutions
• Regulations governing safety, storage, operator accountability and traceability
“The new framework aims to ensure that ‘nights of chaos become nights of calm,’ especially for babies, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and animals,” she said Persad-Bissessar underscored that the Law Reform Commission and Joint Select Committee found widespread evidence of injuries, respiratory complications, security risks—including fireworks being used in improvised explosive devices noise levels exceeding 120 decibels, and persistent enforcement failures Under previous laws, only five charges were laid in five years
The Prime Minister also pointed to her years of advocacy while in Opposition and said the Bill delivers on commitments to regulate fireworks and protect vulnerable groups Since assuming office, she said the Government has already cancelled loud Independence Day fireworks, allowed only silent displays, adopted the LRC’s recommendations, and secured Cabinet approval for the Bill The reforms have since received support from animal-welfare organisations, disability advocates and national safety groups
“This Bill is grounded in humanity, dignity, and justice,” she said “After years of pleas from our people, today we listen Today we act Promises made Promises kept ”
Henry
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Jamaican gov’t approves US$150M loan to JPS to speed up power restoration
Jamaica’s Energy Minister Daryl Vaz says the Government has formally approved the US$150 million (J$24 billion) loan to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), clearing the way for additional overseas line workers and equipment to support restoration efforts in hurricane-hit western Jamaica
“After long negotiations, I can state that the US$150M loan for the accelerated restoration of electricity to Western Jamaica has been signed off on,” Vaz announced Monday in a post on X
The agreement signed last Friday will allow 300 more overseas line workers to arrive in Jamaica within weeks It also authorises an extension of service for the 170 linesmen already on island, whose deployment was initially set to end this week
Vaz said details of the loan’s terms and conditions will be outlined by Finance Minister Fayval Williams in a statement to the House of Representatives this afternoon
Monday’s update finalises the Cabinet-approved loan arrangement first revealed in late November, when the Government agreed to lend JPS US$150 million to help fund nationwide electricity restoration following the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa
JPS has projected total restoration costs at US$350 million, leaving a US$200 million shortfall at the time the loan was announced Vaz previously indicated that part of the gap would be reduced through a drawdown from the Electricity Disaster Fund, with US$50 million pending approval from the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR)
Members of the parliamentary Opposition have raised concerns about the financing package Opposition Spokesman on Finance Julian Robinson has pressed Vaz to disclose where JPS intends to source the remainder of its funding Opposition Spokesman on Energy Phillip Paulwell has also
questioned the decision to advance the loan without an agreed interest rate and has queried the valuation of JPS’ assets
Vaz has maintained that taxpayers are safeguarded He said that if JPS is unable to repay the loan by 2027, the Government could recover the funds through asset acquisition or by converting the loan into preferential shares
The minister also clarified that the loan arrangement is unrelated to ongoing negotiations regarding JPS’ licence, which expires in July 2027
He previously told the House that JPS had requested a 15year licence extension to help secure credit for hurricane recovery, but warned that an automatic renewal under the existing terms would breach prior commitments to introduce “fundamental changes” to future licences
According to Vaz, the loan will run for five years, with the interest rate still to be negotiated He said it was necessary to avoid restoration delays that JPS warned could stretch into mid2026 without additional financing
UWP Council rejects Allen Chastanet’s resignation following St. Lucia election defeat
For the second time in four years, the United Workers Party’s (UWP) National Council has declined to accept a resignation from its political leader, Allen Chastanet, opting instead to keep him at the helm until the party’s next convention.
In a statement issued on December 8, the council described as the UWP’s “highest decision-making body” said it convened to assess “recent political developments,” including Chastanet’s most recent offer to step down After what the release called thorough deliberation, members arrived at a “clear and unanimous decision” that the former prime minister should remain in place
It is the second time the party has rejected Chastanet’s attempt to withdraw from leadership His first resignation was tendered after the UWP’s defeat in the 2021 general election The latest followed the party’s heavy loss in the December 1 vote, where the UWP won just one of the 17 contested seats — Chastanet’s own
The statement, signed by Public Relations Officer Leonard “Spider” Montoute, stressed unity and continuity as the party moves into a rebuilding phase
“The United Workers Party convened a meeting of the National Council, its highest decision-making body on Monday December 8th 2025 to discuss recent political developments, including the resignation submitted by the Party leader, Allen Chastanet,” the release stated
“After thorough deliberation, the body reached a clear and unanimous decision not to accept the resignation at this time Allen Chastanet will therefore continue to serve as party leader until the upcoming convention
“The United Workers Party remains committed to serving the
public interest, strengthening our organization and working constructively toward our shared goals
We thank our members, supporters and the public for their continued trust ” – Leonard Spider Montoute, Public Relations Officer
Chastanet, 65, was the sole UWP candidate to secure a seat in last Monday’s general election, which handed a resounding victory to the ruling St Lucia Labour Party (SLP) Prime Minister Phillip J Pierre’s SLP won 14 of 17 parliamentary seats, while independents Stephenson King and Richard Frederick both former members of Pierre’s previous administration retained their constituencies
The council’s decision effectively places the party’s future direction in Chastanet’s hands as the UWP prepares for its next internal leadership contest
Supreme Court rejects Paul Buchanan’s bid to overturn Holness’ election victory
The Jamaican Supreme Court on Monday dismissed an application by Paul Buchanan, the People’s National Party (PNP) candidate for St Andrew West Central in the September 3 general election, effectively ending his effort to overturn the result won by Prime Minister Andrew Holness
Buchanan had sought permission to pursue judicial review of the Constituted Authority’s decision not to apply to the Election Court to void the results, arguing that irregularities affected the integrity of the poll
In its ruling, the court said the statutory period for challenging election results had expired, making any review “meaningless ” Election matters, the judge stressed, are governed by strict timelines that must be followed regardless of the issues raised
The judge also found that Buchanan’s complaints were specific to St Andrew West Central and did not raise questions of broader national importance that could not be addressed through an election petition
While the court acknowledged that decisions of the Constituted Authority are subject to judicial review, it said Buchanan failed to show an arguable case It noted that although his filing fell within the three-month outer limit allowed under civil procedure rules, he was still required to act “promptly ”
The delay between the Authority’s September 30 decision and Buchanan’s October 8 application was deemed insufficiently explained and indicative of a lack of urgency
As a result, the Supreme Court refused Buchanan’s request for leave to pursue judicial review, bringing his latest attempt to challenge the St Andrew West Central election result to an end Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Communications Task Force Chairman, Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, welcomed the ruling, describing it as a victory for the rule of law and Jamaica’s democratic processes
“Based on the expert guidance of King’s Counsel Tom Tavares-Finson, we in the Jamaica Labour Party had expected the outcome that eventually prevailed today We are not taken aback by it,” he said “Indeed, we are of the view that it’s an indication of the upholding of our finest democratic traditions an upholding of the rule of law ” Fitz-Henley characterised the judgment as “ a strike against the willingness of the PNP to use disinformation, fake news and misinformation to burnish their political agenda ” Fitz-Henley also criticised the allegations contained in affidavits submitted by persons aligned to Buchanan, arguing that the claims were not supported by independent electoral workers who oversaw the voting process on election day
He accused the Mark Golding–led PNP of attempting to target Prime Minister Holness with “untruthful allegations,” adding that such actions risk undermining confidence in Jamaica’s democratic institutions
Chastanet
Buchanan
Martine Moïse renews calls for justice in assassination of President Jovenel Moïse
Former First Lady of Haiti Martine Moïse is again demanding justice for her husband, President Jovenel Moïse, more than three years after he was assassinated at the couple’s private residence on July 7, 2021
In a statement released last week, Moïse said her message has remained consistent
“From the beginning of the year until this past month, our message has not changed We continue to demand justice for Jovenel Moïse Many of you may doubt this because justice in Haiti is not guaranteed,” she said
Moïse, who survived the attack and later received medical treatment in the United States, argued that Haiti’s judicial system has been captured by powerful interests and is being used to manipulate political outcomes
“President Jovenel Moïse has never ceased to denounce the system that holds the country’s justice system hostage,” she said “They are using the judicial system to destroy President Jovenel Moïse’s character while he is still alive and to spit on his remains after he has been killed ”
She added that the justice system has been weaponized against those who demand accountability, saying people without influence face harsh treatment while those with means evade consequences
“They are using the judicial system to destroy President Jovenel Moïse’s character while he is still alive and to spit on his remains after he has been killed” – Moïse
Moïse also revisited the political tensions of February 7, 2021, when Haitian authorities announced they had foiled an alleged coup attempt Twenty-three people were arrested that day, including a Supreme Court judge and a senior police officer
“Where are the judges who issued the warrant against President Jovenel while he was carrying out the duties the people had
entrusted to him? It was this same warrant they used to kill him,” she asked
The former first lady questioned how a justice system she believes was involved in political persecution can be expected to deliver a fair investigation into her husband’s killing Moïse accused unnamed oligarchs, political actors and international interests of working together to maintain control over
Haiti’s political system and undermine reforms championed by the late president
She said those forces have fueled widespread instability and violence that has kept communities across the country in fear
“Oligarchs, corrupt politicians, and globalist whites sacrificed the people by assassinating President Jovenel Moïse,” she said, claiming that some actors are now preparing strategies to “ renew their hold on power” ahead of February 7
Moïse described the current environment as one in which citizens in multiple regions are living under extreme pressure and insecurity, saying the scale of violence has left many Haitians feeling as though the country has lost its way
Invoking historic Haitian figures including Boisrond-Tonnerre, Makandal, Boukman, Toussaint Louverture, and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, Moïse framed the struggle for justice as part of a larger national fight against oppression
She quoted her late husband as once asking: “What will we do in the face of these criminals, these lawless bandits?”
According to Moïse, “the people have had enough The time has come for the system to collapse ”
Rubio urges Latin American and beyond to step up support for Haiti
U S Secretary of State Marco Rubio last Thursday urged countries across Latin America and beyond to step up financial and personnel support for the multinational mission working to stabilize Haiti, saying the effort cannot succeed without broader international backing
Rubio made the appeal while hosting Kenyan President William Ruto at the State Department for a signing ceremony, praising Kenya’s “extraordinary, really heroic role” in leading the security intervention in Haiti He said Washington is preparing to move into a
new phase focused on establishing a “ gang suppression force” to combat the country’s spiraling violence
“We understand and believe they cannot do it by themselves,” Rubio said “I wanted to use this as an opportunity to continue to encourage countries in the region and around the world to step up and contribute We need their money We need their funds, and we need their personnel as well to make this work ”
Rubio added that if “five or 10 countries” contributed even half of Kenya’s current support, “it would be an extraordinary
achievement ” Kenya has been at the forefront of the international push to stabilize Haiti, which has endured years of political instability, widespread gang control, and deepening poverty
The call for more support comes amid grim security and human rights assessments from the United Nations
The UN Integrated Office in Haiti reported last month that 1,247 people were murdered and 710 injured between July and September
While 30% of the killings were attributed to gang violence, the report found that 61%
resulted from operations carried out by Haitian security forces, including drone strikes, ground missions, and incidents involving excessive use of force and summary executions Another 9% of deaths were linked to self-defense groups and lynch mobs
The report also underscored the alarming exploitation of children by armed groups, describing it as one of Haiti’s most severe human rights crises At least 302 children were recruited by gangs in 2024, though UN officials warn that the true figure is likely much higher
Don’t let loneliness ruin the Christmas season
The Christmas season is supposed to boom with happiness, peace, and goodwill But for some, the season can be filled with activity, consumerism, social pressure, and the expectation to “be joyful,” even when they’re dealing with loneliness, grief, financial stress, or unresolved problems The lights, music, and celebrations may create a temporary emotional escape but don’t address the deeper issues particularly loneliness that some people live with yearround
Others find the season highlights their struggles even more because it throws into contrast what they wish their life could be In this context, one wonders what this Christmas will be like for the many Jamaicans who experienced great loss because of Hurricane Melissa How many will be able to rise above their losses and the possible resulting loneliness to find some joy? Most likely, if Melissa had hit earlier in the year, not so close to Christmas, the pain and loneliness would be eased
Psychiatrists say the worst type of loneliness is often found among people who seem happy and fun-loving but who are really hurting inside, even when surrounded by others Some may ask how it’s possible to feel lonely when one has family or friends around That’s because there’s a fundamental difference between loneliness and being alone
Some people enjoy being alone, even during Christmas, because they’re confident and comfortable in their own company This may seem like selfish behavior, but it’s far less devastating than loneliness
People can be extremely lonely and depressed among others because their inherent needs aren’t being met They want something that not even their dearest loved ones spouse, children, parents, or best friends can fulfill The sad and dangerous
part is that people feeling this kind of loneliness often aren’t aware of what’s missing Ironically, these are the people who most need the support of their loved ones
Lonely people usually display clear signals that friends and family should recognize They may suddenly pull away from others in a room, sitting alone with a distant look on their face They may go off by themselves with the excuse of not feeling well Even men tend to get melancholic or cry when they hear sad songs or music Some psychiatrists say certain Christmas music, with its melancholic melodies and lyrics, can provoke or deepen feelings of loneliness and sadness
Lonely people often try to find a balm for their pain Unfortunately, some of these can be harmful, including excessive alcohol, drug use, nonstop partying, or sexual promiscuity More positive escapes include turning to spiritual endeavors, becoming involved in church, or joining charitable organizations But while these efforts may provide temporary relief, they often don’t resolve the underlying loneliness
Those who feel this burden should talk about it and seek help something that can be difficult in the Caribbean American community Cultural norms often discourage
people from seeking professional help from psychiatrists It’s not unusual for Caribbean Americans to react defensively when encouraged to get help, saying, “After mi nuh mad ” But persistent loneliness can be a mental health issue that needs professional attention Help can also come from talking with a close friend, family member, co-worker, church brother or sister, or pastor No one should bear this burden alone
Sadly, in recent years the rise of social media has made too many young people vulnerable to loneliness and depression. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook expose them to unrealistic images and social behaviors that make some feel inadequate Seeing others gain popularity can make them feel unworthy, pushing them into dark, lonely emotional spaces
Young people must be guided to believe they can accomplish meaningful things with their lives and not let their self-worth be diminished by social media negativity It is the responsibility of parents regardless of how busy they are not only during Christmas but year-round, to watch for signs of depression, withdrawal, and loneliness among their children
The increasingly commercialized Christmas season can obscure the deeper spiritual meaning of Christmas and act as a temporary mask for life’s pain But the core meaning of the holiday the birth of Christ as hope for a broken world remains available to anyone who seeks it, even amid the season ’ s bustle
For believers, this season can be a chance to intentionally return to the spiritual roots of Christmas rather than letting commercial pressures dominate and lead them into loneliness and despair, even after a devastating event like a hurricane
Experiences Bringing People Together Through Sweet
WOMEN IN FOCUS
Eileen Higgins makes history as Miami’s first woman mayor
Eileen Higgins scored a landmark victory Tuesday night in Miami’s mayoral runoff, defeating Republican Emilio González and becoming the first Democrat to lead the city since 1997. With 98% of precincts reporting, Higgins secured 59% of the vote to González’s 41%.
Higgins, 61, is also poised to become the first woman to serve as mayor of Miami A former Miami-Dade County commissioner, she entered the race with long-standing name recognition and a résumé that includes international development work, Peace Corps leadership in Belize, and diplomatic service with the U S State Department
The win gives her control of Florida’s second-largest city, a global tourism and finance hub often described as the “gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean ” On the campaign trail, Higgins emphasized affordable housing, city budgeting reforms, and unlocking public land for residential development
Tuesday’s election capped a runoff triggered after neither Higgins nor González secured a majority in the Nov 4 contest
While Higgins dominated the marquee
November but failed to clear 50%
Miami Commission –District 3:
Political newcomer Rolando Escalona defeated former Commissioner Frank Carollo with 53% of the vote Carollo, who previously served eight years on the commission and is the brother of outgoing District 3 Commissioner Joe Carollo, had led in
Miami Beach At-Large Commission Seat (Group 1):
Monica Matteo-Salinas won in a landslide, taking 71% of the vote over Monique Pardo Pope to fill the seat vacated by Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez
Hialeah Council Races:
In Group 3, Gelien Perez cruised to victory with 80% of the vote over Jessica Castillo
In Group 4, William “Willy” Marrero won with 71%, defeating Javier Morejon
Higgins’ path to the mayor’s office
Born in Dayton, Ohio and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Higgins earned a mechanical engineering degree from the University of New Mexico and an MBA from Cornell University Before entering elected office, she worked across Latin America on transportation and infrastructure projects, later serving as Peace Corps Country Director in Belize and as a U S foreign service officer with economic and regional portfolios in Mexico and South Africa
Higgins moved to Miami in the early 2000s and became active in community advocacy before entering politics She was first elected to the Miami-Dade County Commission in 2018, winning re-election in 2022 and again in 2024 without opposition
Her victory on Tuesday positions her as a central figure in shaping Miami’s growth, climate adaptation, and affordability challenges in the years ahead
Shenseea mobilizes major aid effort in Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa
Jamaican artist Shenseea has joined the wide national push to assist families affected by Hurricane Melissa, coordinating an extensive relief effort in the aftermath of the storm.
Shenseea personally funded, packed, and helped distribute more than 5,000 relief packages containing food, clean water, shelter materials, household supplies, and other essentials for communities hardest hit across Jamaica
Since last week, she was on the ground in St. Elizabeth her hometown working alongside her team to prepare thousands of pounds of goods before beginning the first round of islandwide deliveries Additional distributions are scheduled in the coming days
The initiative includes goods sourced from Restaurant Depot, Sam’s Club, Uline, Home Depot, and Lowe’s Among the donated items:
• Food & Water
• 7,000+ lbs of rice
• 5,000 lbs each of flour and cornmeal
• Sugar, oats, beans, pantry staples
• Hundreds of cases of noodles, mac & cheese, canned proteins, and condensed milk
• Nearly 700 gallons of water and over 1,100 bottles of water
• Household, Hygiene & Baby Essentials
Toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine products, wipes
• More than 1,200 diapers in multiple sizes
• Paper towels, toilet paper, detergents, bleach, foil, trash bags, and foam plates
• 2,000 reusable shopping bags for continued community distribution
• Emergency & Shelter Supplies
• 200 tarps (16×12) and 100 tarps (20×30)
• Five 20×40 emergency tents
• Six portable generators for areas facing extended outages
Shenseea said her support is part of a long-term commitment to helping families recover
“Jamaica raised me, and whenever my country is hurting, I feel it deeply I wanted to act quickly and give families what they need right now: food, clean water, shelter, and basic essentials. This is home, and I’ll always show up for my people,” she said
Local partners are assisting with deploying supplies to some of the hardesthit communities As recovery efforts continue, Shenseea urged supporters worldwide to keep Jamaica in their thoughts and contribute to verified organizations working on long-term rebuilding
race, several local contests were also decided across Miami, Miami Beach and Hialeah
Miami Mayor-elect Eileen Higgins speaks to supporters as she celebrates her victory at her election night party held at the Miami Women's Club on December 9, 2025. Joe Raedle/Getty Images
WOMEN IN FOCUS
Diaspora, regional leaders pay tribute to late Consul General Alsion Roach-Wilson
An overflowing Community Baptist Church in Englewood, New Jersey, was filled with tributes last Friday as government officials, diplomats, community leaders, and members of the Caribbean diaspora gathered to honour Jamaica’s late Consul General to New York, Alsion Roach-Wilson, who died on November 8 after battling breast cancer
Among those reflecting on her life and legacy were Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness; Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Senator Kamina Johnson Smith; St Lucia’s Consul General and Caribbean Community Consular Corps chairman Jeremiah Hyacinth; New York business leaders; and U S Congresswoma Clarke
Roach-Wilson’s family, led by he Omar Wilson, was presented with th of the Order of Distinction (Comman during the thanksgiving service She unable to accept the honour at t National Honours and Awards cer King’s House due to her illness Sh the award for her contribution to development in education, techno healthcare capacity building In 201 awarded the Order of Distinction Class) for her philanthropic work
Prime Minister Holness described Roach-Wilson as a dedicated public servant who set a high standard Jamaica’s diplomatic service
“She gave more than she took She, through her work as consu general, galvanised the community and she bore burden well,” he told the packed congregation Holness recalled meeting Roach-Wilson for the first time
a n d m i s p r o n o u n c i n g h e r name something she “did not tak kindly to ” He remembered her a assertive, strong, and clear-minded
“She was not content merely to occupy the office of consul genera but to transform it and reimagine the role,” he said “She became a belov figure in the diaspora A depen servant of the people who exce
Resident Magistrate’s Court. Despite the gender restriction, she applied — and was hired — though only as a typist That foot in the door set the trajectory for a lifetime of service in both military and legal arenas
A soldier before she was a judge
In 1943, Collymore-Woodstock took another bold leap and enlisted in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS), the women’s branch of the British Army That decision placed her on the front lines of World War II, where she pushed boundaries once again
She became the first West Indian woman trained as a radar operator and later Britain’s first Black female radar operator — helping track enemy aircraft and relay critical intelligence that shaped counter-operations
Her service took her to Belgium and later to posts within the British War Office In her later years, she would be recognized as Britain’s oldest surviving female WWII veteran
After the war ended, she pursued law in London By 1946, she was studying at Gray’s Inn while also training in juvenile justice at the University of London She stood out not only for her academic performance but also for being the sole woman on Gray’s Inn’s debating team, another milestone in a life marked by breaking conventions She was called to the
“She provided thousands of laptops and tablets to Jamaican schoolchildren to assist their learning once the pandemic was lifted,” he said, adding that she also offered numerous student scholarships funded through the Jamaican Independence Gala
Holness emphasised that Roach-Wilson “sacrificed to be in the position that she held,” and used her influence not for herself, but for people in need including those who were not Jamaican
He further described her as “ a very smart lady” who understood how to build partnerships, negotiate, and deliver results for the diaspora
Roach-Wilson is survived by her husband, Omar, and her children Brian, Vanessa, and Patrick
During the service, Prime Minister Holness again underscored the breadth of her impact, saying: “Consul General Wilson was not content merely to occupy an office She reimagined what a consulate could be And
moments of crisis ” Holness highlighted Roach-Wilson’s eadership during the COVID-19 andemic, where she launched the “CG on e Beat” initiative, delivering food and sential supplies to Jamaicans unable to ess services during the lockdowns
When the travel restrictions to Jamaica lifted, she ensured that many Jamaicans were stranded in the United States were to get back to Jamaica She used her vast work in the service of her fellow maicans,” he said
The prime minister noted that her umble beginnings helped shape her dedication to children in Jamaica
through her vision, she elevated Jamaica’s presence across New York and throughout the 33 states under her jurisdiction ” He said her leadership reflected “ a rare combination of professional excellence and profound humanity ”
“Her work was defined by a rare combination of professional excellence and profound humanity, a blend that made her not only an outstanding public servant, but a beloved figure in the diaspora community,” Holness said He added that she “excelled in moments of crisis when leadership matters,” and described her as “ a good steward” and “ a dependable servant of the people ”
ENA COLLYMORE-WOODSTOCK from
British Bar in 1948
Shaping Jamaica’s justice system
Returning home in 1950, CollymoreWoodstock immediately began clearing new ground for women in the legal profession She became Jamaica’s first female Clerk of the Courts, a role she initially had to fight for after an early rejection on the basis of gender By 1953, she was appointed Assistant Crown Solicitor — the first woman to hold the post — and later served as Crown Solicitor
Her career reached another historic height on August 7, 1959, when she became Jamaica’s first female Resident Magistrate She presided over civil matters and, through her commitment, professionalism, and formidable intellect, became a central figure in modernizing judicial processes during the nation’s formative post-emancipation decades
In 1964, when Jamaica formally established its Juvenile Courts, CollymoreWoodstock played a critical role as Chair from 1964 to 1967, helping build the young nation’s early frameworks for youth justice and rehabilitation Balancing motherhood with the demanding duties of a traveling magistrate,
she often took her three children on circuit — a testament to both her resilience and her refusal to let structural limitations hinder her progress
She retired from the Jamaican bench in 1977 as Senior Resident Magistrate for St Andrew Parish but continued serving regionally, joining the Turks and Caicos Islands Judicial Service and later presiding in the Anguilla Magistrate’s Court
Leadership beyond the courtroom
Collymore-Woodstock’s influence extended into civic life, youth development, and women ’ s empowerment She served as Chief Commissioner of the Girl Guides Association of Jamaica from 1964 to 1974, receiving the Silver Fish Award — the highest honor given by the Commonwealth Girl Guides — in recognition of her exceptional service
She also chaired the Civil Service Housing Company, served on the Parish Council Service Commission, and led the Soroptimist International Caribbean Area Council as President Her leadership consistently centered on helping vulnerable communities,
uplifting women, and strengthening public institutions
Her national honors included the Order of Distinction (OD) from the Government of Jamaica and the Order of the British Empire (MBE) from Queen Elizabeth II
A legacy cemented in perseverance
In its tribute, the Jamaica Defence Force lauded Collymore-Woodstock for her “stellar and distinguished career both within and outside the military,” celebrating her bravery, intellect, and lifelong dedication to public service “Long live your legacy, Mrs Ena Collymore-Woodstock!” the army said Her story remains one of unwavering determination — a young girl from Spanish Town who challenged the limits of her era, stepped into battlefields and courtrooms where few women had stood, and carved a path that generations now walk more freely because she walked it first At 108, Ena Collymore-Woodstock leaves behind a towering legacy: soldier, jurist, community leader, trailblazer, and national icon Her life stands as one of Jamaica’s most powerful examples of courage in service
The Prime Minister along with cabinet members at the funeral service of Alsion Roach-Wilson
Prime minister Andrew Holness with the late Alsion Roach-Wilson at a book distribution event hosted by the Palmyra Foundation
Broward Sheriff’s
Ofce warns of new scam targeting
families of recent arrestees
The Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) is alerting residents to what officials describe as “ an emerging scam ” in which criminals impersonate law enforcement officers and pressure victims into sending money electronically a scheme authorities say mirrors similar fraud attempts seen across South Florida in recent months
According to BSO, scammers have been calling family members of people who were recently arrested, posing as deputies, sergeants, or pre-trial specialists The callers claim that immediate payment is needed to resolve an arrest or secure a release, and often demand money through Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, wire transfers, or gift cards
“The Broward Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about an emerging scam involving individuals impersonating law enforcement personnel The suspects are contacting family members of people recently arrested and are posing as deputies, sergeants or pretrial specialists,” the agency said in a statement
BSO noted that the scheme plays on fear, urgency, and confusion following an arrest — a tactic consistent with other impersonation scams reported in Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and other parts of the region, where callers have also pretended to be officers, court staff, or federal agents
Deputies stressed that BSO will never request money over the phone or through any digital payment service Officials urge residents to immediately hang up if someone claiming to be from BSO asks for payment, and to avoid sharing personal or financial information with unknown callers
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized is urged to call the BSO non-emergency line at (954) 764-HELP (4357) to file a report
Miami jury convicts North Miami Man in violent home invasion and kidnapping case
A federal jury has convicted 37-year-old Alphonso Gainer of North Miami on kidnapping and multiple firearm charges stemming from a 2023 home invasion that prosecutors described as a near-fatal attack
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Gainer broke into the victim’s North Miami home around 6 a m on July 11, 2023, and opened fire, nearly killing the victim A 911 call recorded during the incident captured Gainer firing three more rounds as the victim tried to take cover
“This victim endured unimaginable fear and terror in his own home,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida “Thanks to the courage of the victim and the swift work of law enforcement, justice was delivered We will never relent in pursuing those who use guns to threaten, harm, or intimidate others ”
Officers responded within minutes, but Gainer escaped before they arrived Hours later after police had cleared the scene Gainer returned, kidnapped the victim at gunpoint, and forced him into his rental vehicle The victim managed to escape unharmed and photographed the license plate, allowing law enforcement to trace the vehicle back to Gainer
Investigators later recovered a firearm from Gainer’s residence that matched shell casings found at the scene
The jury found Gainer guilty of one count of kidnapping and three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm or ammunition. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison for the kidnapping charge and up to 15 years for each of the firearm counts A federal judge will determine his sentence at a later date
COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA
Miami Host Committee opens FIFA World Cup Volunteer Center at Brightline MiamiCentral
Miami has taken another major step toward hosting the FIFA World Cup 26, officially opening its Volunteer Center at Brightline’s MiamiCentral station on Monday The facility will function as the operational hub for more than 6,000 Miami-based volunteers who will help welcome the world to South Florida during the global sporting event
The launch marks a key milestone in preparations for the tournament, which will rely on approximately 65,000 volunteers across 16 Host Cities the largest volunteer initiative in FIFA World Cup history
“United by passion, purpose and a shared love of the beautiful game, volunteers are an integral part to this World Cup,” said Rodney Barreto, Co-Chairman of the FIFA World Cup 26™ Miami Host Committee “Volunteers will be the first smiles, first voices, and first stories visitors experience, making them the true face of our city ”
The Volunteer Center, located inside Brightline’s downtown Miami station, will serve as the primary venue for volunteer training, orientation, uniform distribution, and deployment Officials said the choice of location underscores Miami’s commitment to connectivity, sustainability and seamless visitor experiences
“As Miami prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 26™, we ’ re proud to help volunteers and visitors experience the world-class amenities that Miami has to offer,” said Patrick Goddard, CEO of Brightline Florida and Board Member of the Miami Host Committee “Hosting the Volunteer Center at MiamiCentral reflects our commitment not only to connectivity, but to fostering a spirit of community engagement, hospitality, and pride ”
Volunteers will play essential roles in stadiums, training facilities, airports, media centers, fan zones, and other key locations across South Florida Their responsibilities will range from operational support to assisting international visitors throughout the month-long tournament
Organizers say the new center will anchor the volunteer experience, ensuring that Miami’s team is fully prepared to showcase the region’s culture, hospitality, and vibrancy to a global audience
FIFA World Cup volunteers
COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA
Broward Health earns major ratings boost as patient demand surges
Broward Health has received a major boost from national credit agencies, with Moody’s Investors Service upgrading the North Broward Hospital District’s (NBHD) revenue bond rating from Baa1 to A3 and shifting its outlook to positive from stable The improvement reflects sustained operational strength, rising patient volumes, and a growing financial foundation across the five-hospital public health system
Broward Health serves the diverse communities of South Florida, including a large Caribbean-American population that relies on its hospitals, emergency departments, and community health services
“Our continued focus on high-quality care and operational discipline is delivering measurable results,” said Alisa Bert, chief financial officer and senior vice president of
financial operations “Moody’s recognition affirms the financial strength Broward Health is building and our commitment to maintaining a strong health system for our community ”
According to Moody’s, the upgrade reflects sustained operational strength, substantial growth in liquidity, and a meaningful decrease in the average age of plant — improvements the agency linked to enhanced board structure and strengthened financial policies
“The A3 reflects NBHD’s vital role in Northern Broward County as a safety-net provider,” Moody’s reported “NBHD has demonstrated a consistent pattern of robust cash flow and increasing cash reserves ”
“All of these rating upgrades from independent financial bodies are a clear indication that Broward Health has made significant strides in its financial perfor-
mance,” said Shane Strum, President & CEO of Broward Health “Our patient volumes and revenues have exceeded expectations while operational expenses have been held in check ” Strum added that the strengthened financial position will allow Broward Health to continue expanding services, including investments in new facilities, technology upgrades and freestanding emergency departments
Broward Health served more than 1 17 million patients in fiscal year 2025 — a 4 3 percent increase over the previous year
“We are currently performing at a very high level, and patients recognize that and are choosing Broward Health as their provider of choice,” Strum said “The future has never been brighter for Broward Health ”
Miami-Dade County School Board
Member Danny Espino, District 5, joined City of Miami Commissioner Ralph Rosado, District 4, and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Natalie Milian Orbis, District 6, on Tuesday to spread holiday cheer at Kinloch Park Elementary School, ensuring every student felt included in the season ’ s celebrations
In a show of community partnership and support for families, the three officials personally purchased toys for every student from Prekindergarten (Pre-K) through 5th Grade Students lined the halls as gifts were delivered classroom by classroom, creating moments of excitement throughout the school
Younger students also received an added treat Children in Pre-K through 1st Grade enjoyed an interactive holiday show featuring music, storytelling, and festive entertainment turning the day into a full celebration of fun and community spirit
“Today was all about bringing joy to our students,” said School Board Member Danny Espino “Seeing their smiles is a reminder of why our work matters I’m grateful to our community partners who step up every day to support our schools ” The event highlighted the commitment of local leaders to uplifting students, strengthening community ties, and supporting meaningful experiences for children during the holiday season
School
Closures
A letter sent to families on Monday outlined new restrictions, including a freeze on out-of-county travel and limits on overtime
Zeman said the district’s challenge goes far beyond just the initial list of schools
“We’re probably right now 50 or so schools too big and today we talked about nine or 10 schools Over time, I’m sure we ’ re going to talk about more,” he said
Some board members have pushed to add additional campuses to the closure list
Hepburn noted that selling or leasing properties could provide significant revenue
“The taxable value for those buildings combined is $230 million,” he said “To lease market rate for an elementary school is roughly $2 million annually For a middle school, roughly $3 7 million annually ”
Hepburn emphasized that Broward is not the only large district grappling with shrinking enrollment
“We can’t continue to kick that can down the road and hoping and praying, we need to take action,” he said “And part of that action right now is not (to) hire new people that we ultimately are going have to release at the end of the year ”
The superintendent is expected to finalize his recommendations on Friday The Broward County School Board will vote on the proposed closures and consolidations in January
COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA
Lauderhill, Florida Power & Light team up to deliver Christmas cheer to local veterans
A steady downpour couldn’t stop the City of Lauderhill and Florida Power & Light (FPL) from spreading holiday cheer to a group of local veterans on Tuesday
On December 10, a team of about 20 volunteers — including Mayor Denise D Grant, Commissioner Melissa Dunn, and other city leaders — visited a veterans’ home in the St George neighborhood to decorate the residence, deliver gifts, and offer thanks to those who served The home was selected by FPL as part of its long-running holiday community service initiative, which has been active for nearly 20 years
Mayor Grant helped to decorate the home, present gifts and share love and good cheers, while Commissioner Dunn helped to greet the homeowners “It rained, but the mission continued!” Mayor Grant said “We’re honored to honor our veterans and give back to those who have given so much ”
The veterans, visibly moved, expressed heartfelt gratitude as they received gifts and enjoyed the visit
FPL, one of South Florida’s largest employers and service providers, powers millions of homes and businesses across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties The company is known not only for its energy operations but also for its steady community presence — from hurricane relief support to annual holiday outreach projects like this one Through partnerships with cities, nonprofits, and neighborhood groups, FPL invests heavily in programs that uplift vulnerable residents and support local families
Officials said this year ’ s collaboration in Lauderhill reflects that ongoing commitment Rain or shine, volunteers said, the goal remained the same: ensuring local veterans felt celebrated and appreciated this holiday season
Two Miami men sentenced in $28M scheme involving diverted HIV and cancer drugs
Two Miami men have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in two related schemes that funneled diverted and misbranded prescription drugs including medications used to treat HIV and cancer into pharmacies across the United States
On Oct 30, U S District Judge Darrin P Gayles sentenced Boris Arencibia, 52, and Jose Armando Rivera Garcia, 45, to 57 months in prison, to be served concurrently with 43month sentences they also received in a separate 2025 case In total, prosecutors say the men trafficked about $28 million worth of diverted pharmaceuticals
According to court documents, Arencibia and Rivera Garcia bought high-cost medications from illicit street sources, including
patients who sold their prescriptions rather than taking them, and individuals who obtained prescriptions through fraud The drugs requiring strict temperature and storage controls to remain safe were kept with no safeguards before being moved through the conspirators’ distribution network
“Diverted drugs put patients’ lives at risk,” said U S Attorney Jason A Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida “These defendants pushed tainted and repackaged medications into pharmacies across the country, knowing full well the danger ”
Investigators say members of the conspiracy repackaged the drugs and falsified documentation to make them appear as
though they came from legitimate manufacturers or wholesalers The medications were then sold through sham pharmaceutical distribution companies to pharmacies nationwide Some bottles purchased by unsuspecting patients contained incorrect medications, vitamins or even pebbles
The first case, indicted in 2019, charged 20 defendants All but one fugitive have now been sentenced to terms ranging from 30 months to 14 years Arencibia was identified as a major supplier of diverted drugs, while Rivera Garcia operated LDD Distributors, a shell corporation that handled the fraudulent products before reselling them to another conspirator’s wholesale business Both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering
The second case, filed in 2025, accused the pair of running a wholesale company that marketed diverted drugs to pharmacies using falsified paperwork to hide the medicines’ true origins and mishandling They pleaded guilty to trafficking in medical products with falsified documentation
Federal authorities say the schemes endangered patients who rely on life-saving HIV and cancer medications and undermined the integrity of the U S pharmaceutical supply chain
The cases were investigated by the FDA, HHS-OIG, the FBI and other federal partners
South Florida rallies for Jamaica
and community choirs boost
South Florida’s Jamaican diaspora continues to mobilize in a big way for Hurricane Melissa relief, with efforts ranging from star-powered concerts to heartfelt community performances
On Saturday, December 6, some of reggae and gospel’s biggest names took the stage at The Faith Center in Sunrise for the One Love Jamaica Rebuild Initiative, a benefit concert supporting families across western Jamaica still recovering from the late-October storm Grammy-nominated reggae gospel artist Papa San headlined the event, joined by Marion Hall, Kevin Downswell, Carlene Davis, and a lineup of local and international performers
The initiative — organized by Jamaica’s Consul General to the Southern U S , Oliver Mair, in partnership with Bishop Henry Fernandez and the Dare to Care Organization — aims to rebuild homes, restore access to clean water, provide medical and food supplies, and repair damaged infrastructure
After the show, Consul General Mair announced that the night raised over US$120,000 for Hurricane Melissa relief
“Thank you to everyone who came and donated,” he wrote on Instagram
While big stages are drawing major
donations, quieter efforts across South Florida are also helping keep Jamaica’s recovery in focus
On Sunday, December 7, the South Florida Caribbean Chorale performed Jamaican Christmas classics at Plantation United Methodist Church — a free holiday concert
with a purpose As the group sang familiar refrains like “all over Jamaica everybody Jesus born,” many in the audience said they came because they want to see their homeland rebuilt
“This is about supporting home,” one attendee said “We’re far away, but we still feel
everything happening in Jamaica ” The chorale, founded and directed by Steve Higgins, has now hosted four benefit concerts since Hurricane Melissa tore through western Jamaica, destroying homes and disrupting livelihoods The previous show raised more than $25,000, and Higgins said they moved quickly to keep the momentum going
“Two days after the hurricane, we were ready with flyers and started to spread the message — we have to start raising funds for Jamaica,” Higgins said Donations have ranged from essential goods to financial contributions Food For The Poor has partnered with the chorale on the series, supporting logistics and collecting relief funds The nonprofit promoted the Plantation concert as a “Tribute to Jamaica,” urging attendees to “bring your giving spirit ” Organizers say there’s more to come: the chorale has been invited to perform in Weston, with additional concerts planned for early 2026
With Christmas approaching, South Florida Jamaicans say the emotional weight of watching the devastation from afar is heavy — but the response from the diaspora has been steady But with more events already in the works, South Florida’s support for Jamaica shows no signs of slowing
One Love Jamaica Rebuild concert in Sunrise
Official funeral for reggae legend
Jimmy Cliff set for December 17
The official funeral for late reggae icon Jimmy Cliff will take place on Wednesday, December 17, at the National Indoor Sports Centre, beginning at 10:00 a m
Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange made the announcement in a media release on Tuesday, noting that Cliff — born James Chambers in 1944 — is being honored with an official funeral for “his immense contribution to Jamaican culture and entertainment ”
According to the release, the arrangements are being finalized by the Office of the Prime Minister in consultation with the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and Cliff’s family
Minister Grange said the service would “provide an opportunity for the country to bid farewell to an outstanding son of Jamaica; an icon ” She added that the ceremony will feature only spoken word, dance, and music, in keeping with Cliff’s wishes
Jimmy Cliff passed away on November 24, 2025 at the age of 81 His wife announced that he died that morning from pneumonia after being hospitalized following a seizure
Prime Minister Andrew Holness, in a statement following Cliff’s death, said the legendary musician’s work “lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaica enjoys today ”
Widely regarded as one of Jamaica’s greatest musicians, Jimmy Cliff played a central role in popularizing reggae on the world stage He was often described as rivaling Bob Marley in international prominence and influence within the genre
Ninja Man’s appeal hearing postponed, new date set for March 23
The appeal hearing for dancehall veteran Ninja Man and his two coconvicts has been postponed once again, following unresolved issues surrounding legal representation The matter, which was scheduled to begin this week with oral arguments, has now been pushed to the week of March 23 next year
Court officials confirmed that the delay stems from complications involving co-convict Dennis Clayton, whose attorney fell ill prior to the hearing Although a new lawyer was retained, the appointment came only days before the appeal was expected to begin, leaving too little time for the attorney to adequately review the extensive case files
The Court of Appeal noted that the volume of documents covering more than a decade of proceedings requires sufficient preparation to ensure a fair and comprehensive hearing for all parties. The judges agreed that proceeding without a full review would place the newly appointed lawyer at a significant disadvantage
Ninja Man, whose real name is Desmond Ballentine, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2017 alongside his son and co-accused Dennis Clayton for the 2009 murder of Ricardo Johnson in Lower Mall Road, St Andrew The men were also convicted of shooting with intent Prosecutors argued during the trial that the fatal incident stemmed from a domestic dispute, presenting eyewitness testimony and forensic evidence that linked the three to the shooting
The case has experienced multiple postponements over the years, with a combination of procedural issues, changes in legal representation, and scheduling complications slowing progress toward a final appellate ruling The latest delay means the parties will now wait several more months before the court revisits the 2017 conviction
Though the hearing has been delayed, Ninjaman remains one of dancehall’s most influential and controversial voices, shaped by a catalogue of hits and a reputation built on powerful performances and lyrical prowess Ninjaman first broke through in the late 1980s with a self-produced single titled Protection (a duet with Courtney Melody), which helped establish him as a rising voice in the Jamaican music scene Over the years, he became synonymous with the “badman era” of dancehall due to street-savvy, hard-hitting tracks like Murder Dem, Permit to Bury, Border Clash, and My Weapon These songs helped solidify his image as a fearsome deejay, capable of commanding sound-clash stages with razor-sharp delivery and theatrical presence
For now, the entertainer and his coconvicts remain in custody as attorneys prepare for what is expected to be a detailed and somewhat closely watched appeal next March
Jimmy Cliff
Ninja Man
South Florida ignites its World Cup countdown with seven Premier 2026 Fixtures
Miami’s march toward the historic FIFA World Cup 2026 reached full stride this week as FIFA released the complete tournament match schedule following the Final Draw
The publication on FIFA com signals far more than a logistical update, it officially ignites the countdown to the world’s mostwatched sporting event, now expanded to an unprecedented 104 matches across 16 Host Cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States
The 2026 edition promises not only scale, but also a tailored experience: minimized travel for teams and supporters, thoughtful rest intervals between fixtures, and carefully selected kick-off times aimed at maximizing spectator comfort and global broadcasting reach
And Miami is preparing to be one of the tournament’s most sought-after stops
Miami Stadium will host seven FIFA World Cup 2026 fixtures, including four Group Stage clashes featuring marquee names such as Brazil, Portugal, Uruguay, Colombia, Scotland, Saudi Arabia, and Cabo Verde
These are the matches South Florida will welcome:
• Match 13 – Mon, 15 June 2026 | 18:00
ET | KSA vs URU (Group H)
• Match 37 – Sun, 21 June 2026 | 18:00
ET | URU vs CPV (Group H)
• Match 49 – Wed, 24 June 2026 | 18:00
ET | SCO vs BRA (Group C)
• Match 71 – Sat, 27 June 2026 | 19:30
ET | COL vs POR (Group K)
• Match 86 – Fri, 3 July 2026 | 18:00 ET
| Round of 32
• Match 99 – Sat, 11 July 2026 | 17:00
ET | Quarter-Final
Match 103 – Sat, 18 July 2026 | 17:00 ET | Bronze Final
These contests place Miami at the heart of the global spectacle, an intersection where elite football, international culture, and worldclass hospitality will converge
Local organizers are embracing the moment with pride and purpose
“Miami is ready to welcome the world,” affirmed Alina Hudak, President & CEO of the FIFA World Cup 26 Miami Host Committee
“Our city represents the very essence of global fútbol culture, and hosting these FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be a celebration of our diversity, passion, and world-class hospitality This will be a moment our community remembers for generations ”
Her words capture the community’s sentiment: Miami is not merely hosting games; it is curating a once-in-a-lifetime cultural event
FIFA has made the full 104-match schedule available on FIFA com, opening the door for global supporters to finalize travel plans and secure stadium access
The next ticketing window the Random Selection Draw opens 11 December and runs through 13 January 2026 at FIFA com/tickets
Importantly, the timing of a fan’s entry within that period does not influence chances of success
Successful or partially successful applicants will receive email notifications and automatic payment processing in February
This marks the third phase of ticket sales, with nearly two million tickets already claimed
Fans looking for guaranteed access can also turn to official hospitality packages, available now through On Location at FIFA com/hospitality These packages include match tickets and premium amenities for supporters seeking an elevated World Cup experience
With its match slate confirmed, Miami moves into the next phase of preparation as anticipation surges The city is preparing for a summer of powerful sporting drama, cultural exchange, and global celebration, an international spotlight that promises to define the region’s sporting legacy for generations
Persistence turns to brilliance as Shaw res City to 3-0 win
For much of Sunday afternoon, Manchester City’s dominance lacked only the final touch
Chance after chance slid past Khadija “Bunny” Shaw’s boots or drifted beyond the far post, leaving Leicester City momentarily buoyant in the Women’s Super League clash at the King Power Stadium
But when the match approached what felt like an inevitable stalemate, Shaw transformed frustration into authority, producing a late burst that carried City to a commanding 3-0 victory and extended their lead atop the WSL table to six points
A flurry of misses before the breakthrough
Shaw’s early afternoon was defined by near-misses, six of them, including four in the first half alone. Manchester City dictated tempo and territory, yet Leicester goalkeeper Janina Leitzig and a determined defensive unit kept the scoreboard motionless deep into the second period
The tension grew as each chance went begging and the minutes ticked away City’s rhythm was intact, but their finishing refused to cooperate, until Shaw seized control
In the 74th minute, the Jamaican striker finally cracked Leicester’s resistance A mishandled clearance by Celeste Boureille presented Shaw with a fleeting window, and she needed no invitation She drove a firm, low effort past Leitzig to break the deadlock and release City from their scoring drought
Nine minutes later, Shaw rose above the defensive line to meet Lauren Hemp’s precise cross, guiding a header into the far corner for her second of the evening and tilting the contest decisively Manchester City’s way
Still not finished, Shaw turned provider in stoppage time In the fourth minute of added time, she threaded a through ball into space for Kerolin, whose composed finish sealed City’s three-goal cushion
Justin Greaves’ monumental 202 signals his arrival on the Test stage
When Justin Greaves walked off Hagley Oval in New Zealand with an unbeaten 202 carved across nearly 10 and a half hours of concentration, he had done far more than salvage a draw He had reintroduced the West Indies to the art of the impossible Tasked with chasing a towering 531 and teetering at 72 for 4, the 31-year-old allrounder chose resistance over resignation Over 388 balls, he built a monument to patience and discipline, guiding his side through 163 3 overs and sealing an extraordinary stalemate that leaves the two-match series balanced ahead of Tuesday’s second Test in Wellington
“Test cricket is a lot more demanding both physically and mentally. This is where I always wanted to be, so I had to change the way I train, both strength-and conditioning-wise and skill-wise. I’m enjoying it, learning as I go along.” – Greaves
In the aftermath of his career-defining innings, Greaves admitted that the leap from regional first-class cricket to the international arena had been a revelation For Greaves, the transformation required more than minor adjustments It demanded a reinvention, of body, of mindset, and of daily
habits
A key part of Greaves’s development has come through absorbing wisdom from teammate and former West Indies captain Jason Holder Their conversations have become a quiet cornerstone of his evolution
“I lean on Jason Holder I’ve dropped him a few messages in terms of finding out what he’s done to have the career he’s had in Test cricket so far,” Greaves explained “If I can pick up some tips from the other successful allrounders around the world when we play against them, I pretty much do that ” Such mentorship has helped him navigate the steep learning curve of an international career now 12 Tests deep, featuring tours of Australia, Pakistan, and now New Zealand
Greaves
