Young woman found guilty of killing romantic rival in Tamarac
A jury on Tuesday found Sakiyna Thompson, 31, guilty of first-degree murder in the July 2022 killing of her romantic rival, 23-year-old Kayla Hodgson. Thompson, a native of Jamaica, could face life in prison
Hodgson’s family expressed relief and joy over the verdict, hugging each other in the courtroom
"We're just so thankful in this moment that the jury was able to see the story for what it is, that Kayla did not deserve to die the way that she did," family members said
Prosecutors alleged that Thompson flew from New York to South Florida days before the murder with the intent to kill Hodgson, who had been dating Thompson’s ex-boyfriend Authorities said Thompson was enraged after Hodgson blocked her on social media following a series of tense messages
During the trial, jurors heard four hours of closing arguments centered
Florida Publix stores to permit open carry after court ruling
Publix, Florida’s largest grocery store chain, will now follow the state’s open carry policy after a recent court ruling
Open carry is the practice of carrying a firearm visibly in public, as opposed to concealed carry, where the firearm is hidden from view (for example, under clothing)
on whether Thompson had planned the killing or acted in selfdefense Prosecutors described Thompson as “jealous and insecure,” while defense attorneys argued she acted to protect herself and her unborn child
In July 2022, Thompson confronted Hodgson at her Tamarac apartment at 5 a m , and the encounter escalated into a fatal struggle Jurors were shown graphic police body camera footage of the crime scene, where Hodgson was found stabbed dozens of times
"Being violated in your own home, in the sanctity of your own home, is a scary thing," said Tonya Johnson, an assistant state prosecutor "What’s even scarier is being attacked, being brutally murdered in your own home, and that person getting away with it "
On Sept 10, 2025, a panel of the 1st District Court of Appeal (DCA) overturned a 1987 law that made it a misdemeanor to visibly display firearms, according to Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier. The ruling allows private businesses to “compel individuals carrying firearms to leave their premises ” Weeks later, on Sept 25, Florida implemented its statewide open carry policy
“As of Sept. 25, 2025, Florida law allows the open carry of firearms Publix follows all federal, state, and local laws. In any instance where a customer creates a threatening, erratic, or dangerous shopping experience we will engage local law enforcement to protect our customers and associates.” – Publix Spokesperson
The chain confirmed that open carry will be permitted at stores across South Florida, including locations in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Davie, Miramar, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Gables, and Homestead
Thompson Hodgson
David Cole, son of Allan “Skill” Cole greets Jamaica’s Minister of Sport Olivia Grange during his father’s funeral at the Na onal Arena in Kingston on Saturday
Singer Tarrus Riley paid tribute to Jamaican football legend Allan “Skill” Cole at his funeral held in Kingston on Saturday
The Lauderhill Police Department recently hosted a Meet
Greet at Lauderhill Inverrary Apartments, bringing together residents, property management, and officers for
evening of meaningful dialogue and connec on
A er several years, dancehall star Mavado (center) made his return to Jamaica this week.
NEWSMAKER
YVONNE BREWSTER
Jamaican-born theatre pioneer dies at 87
Yvonne Brewster OBE, the Jamaican-born actress, director, writer, and cofounder of two landmark theatre companies the Barn Theatre in Kingston and Talawa Theatre Company in London died on October 12 at the age of 87, according to reports
A towering figure in theatre and television, Brewster spent her life expanding opportunities for Black artists, reshaping the narratives presented on stage, and mentoring
generations of performers across the Caribbean and the UK
Born on October 7, 1938, in Kingston, Jamaica, to an uppermiddle-class family, Brewster’s love of performance was sparked at age 16 She recalled a transformative visit to the Ward Theatre with her father to see Jean-Paul Sartre’s Huis Clos: “And in it was Mona Chin, who I thought looked just like me She was fantastic I looked at this woman and I said, ‘Hey, Daddy, I want to be like her ’” That moment would set her on a path to becoming one of the most influential figures in Black British theatre
In 1956, Brewster moved to the United Kingdom to study drama at
years ago, she and her husband settled in Florence, Italy
Brewster returned to Jamaica in the 1960s, where she taught drama and co-founded the Barn Theatre in 1965 alongside playwright Trevor R h o n e A s J a m a i c a ’ s fi r s t professional theatre company, the Barn became a crucible for local talent and a platform for storytelling rooted in Caribbean identity Its productions provided a stage for emerging playwrights and actors, helping define Jamaica’s cultural landscape during a period of postindependence artistic exploration
In the early 1970s, Brewster returned to the UK and quickly established herself across radio, television, and stage She starred in the BBC drama Maybury in 1981 and served as Drama Officer at the Arts Council of Great Britain from 1982 to 1984, supporting emerging talent and shaping arts policy
Her most enduring contribution came in 1985 with the co-founding
Rose Bruford College, becoming the institution’s first Black female drama student On her first day, she was told she was unlikely to find work in British theatre, yet she persevered, later attending the Royal Academy of Music and earning a distinction in drama and mime Brewster married and returned to England in 1971 Several
of Talawa Theatre Company alongside Mona Hammond, Carmen Munroe, and Inigo Espejel Talawa meaning “small but m i g h t y ” i n J a m a i c a n patois quickly became a powerhouse of Black British theatre Under Brewster’s artistic direction, the company staged landmark productions, including C L R
James’s The Black Jacobins in 1986, starring Norman Beaton as Toussaint L’Ouverture, and the first
a
y a n d Cleopatra in 1991, featuring Doña Croll and Jeffery Kissoon Her productions were celebrated for bold casting, authenticity, and a deep respect for the cultural roots of the material Brewster’s influence extended beyond the stage From 2000 to 2001, she appeared as nurse Ruth Harding on the BBC daytime drama Doctors, earning recognition for her commanding presence and dedication to her craft, even while dealing with health challenges in real life She also chronicled her life and career in her memoir The Undertaker’s Daughter: The Colourful Life of a Theatre Director and edited several collections of plays, ensuring that Black voices in theatre were preserved and celebrated
Her work earned widespread
appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1993 and received a living legend award from the National Black Theatre Festival in 2001 She was included in the 2003 list of 100 Great Black Britons, granted honorary doctorates, and named one of the BBC’s 100 Women in 2013 Throughout her career, she served as a mentor to countless actors, directors, and playwrights, leaving an indelible mark on both Caribbean and British theatre
Yvonne Brewster’s passing is not only the loss of a theatrical pioneer but also the loss of a cultural bridge someone whose work connected Jamaica and the UK, brought Caribbean stories to global audiences, and paved the way for generations of Black artists to follow their passions unapologetically She is survived by her husband
Bringing People Together Through
Sweet
Experiences
Talawa Theatre Company in Croydon, UK
Caribbean Airlines announces leadership transition as CEO Garvin Medera resigns
The Board of Directors of Caribbean Airlines has announced that Chief Executive Officer Garvin Medera has resigned from his position, effective immediately
In a statement on Monday, the Board expressed gratitude to Medera for his years of service and leadership, extending best wishes for his future endeavors
To ensure continuity, Chief Operating Officer Nirmala Ramai has been appointed Acting Chief Executive Officer until further notice She will work closely with the Senior Leadership Team under the Board’s guidance to maintain smooth operations during the transition
The airline confirmed that its full flight schedule will continue without any disruption to customers or partners
According to the Board, the leadership change marks an important period of renewal and focus for the airline, aligning with its broader goals of stability, safety, and accountability
As part of the transition, Caribbean Airlines outlined five key strategic initiatives:
• Supporting employees and stakeholders through open communication and care
• Reviewing operations to increase efficiency and modernization
• Enhancing the customer experience with improved services
• Developing a long-term, financially responsible, and sustainable growth plan
• Conducting comprehensive audits across all departments to strengthen governance and safety
commitment to developing and promoting talent from within before seeking external candidates, ensuring opportunities for employee growth and advancement
Caribbean Airlines emphasized that it remains dedicated to serving the region with “pride, reliability, and a steadfast commitment to safety,” while maintaining open and timely communication with employees, customers, and stakeholders throughout this transition
“I want to take this opportunity to thank all the employees of Caribbean Airlines who have done such a fantastic job over the past few years, facing some very difficult challenges and being their best, time and again, for each other and our passengers. Also, thanks to partners for their support and commitment and customers for their trust and loyalty. I wish everyone well.” – Medera
Juliet Holness appointed to Commonwealth Parliamentary Executive Committee
Jamaica’s Speaker of the House of Representatives, Juliet Holness, has been appointed as a Representative of the Caribbean, Americas, and Atlantic Region to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) International Executive Committee
The appointment took effect on October 12, 2020, following the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Barbados Holness led Jamaica’s delegation to the conference, which included Government representative Andrew Morris, Opposition member Yvonne Rose Marie Shaw, Clerk to
the Houses Colleen Lowe, who served as secretary, and Legislative Counsel Ashleigh Ximines
As a member of the CPA’s International Executive Committee, Holness will play a key role in advancing parliamentary democratic principles across more than 180 national and local legislatures worldwide She will also sit on the Caribbean, Americas, and Atlantic (CAA) Regional Executive Committee, where her responsibilities include strengthening interparliamentary cooperation, promoting good governance, and encouraging member
participation in CPA initiatives
In accepting the appointment, Holness expressed gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to democratic advancement within the Commonwealth “It’s an honor to serve as Regional Representative for the Caribbean and the Americas Regions,” she said “I look forward to representing my region with integrity and dedication, and ensuring that our voice remains strong in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association ”
The CPA network represents over 17,000
parliamentarians across nine regions and serves as a platform for collaboration and the exchange of best practices on shared governance challenges Holness’s appointment highlights Jamaica’s continued leadership and active engagement in promoting democratic values and inter-parliamentary collaboration within the Commonwealth
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Ready to protest against US radar equipment
Former Grenada Senate President Chester Humphrey says he is ready to lead a peaceful protest against what he describes as a dangerous U S military move in the Caribbean — the proposed installation of radar equipment and American technical personnel at the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA)
Humphrey, a veteran trade unionist and influential political figure, claimed that the U S request signals a potential prelude to military action against Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro government, a close ally of Grenada
“It will be a grave stain on our history and against the memory of our forefathers for us to join in a war against a state that has done us nothing — a state that has helped us tremendously,” Humphrey told WPG10 Television “By giving the United States our facilities the very Maurice Bishop Airport, which they accused us of building as an air base, is now being used by the very Americans Cuba built us this international airport — it was always civilian ” Humphrey said he intends to launch a national peace movement urging Grenadians to stand in “defiance and in support of peace,” and to oppose what he views as the militarization of the
Caribbean
Last week, the Grenadian government confirmed it had received a formal request from the United States for the temporary installation of radar equipment at MBIA In a statement, the Dickon Mitchell administration said the proposal is being carefully reviewed by the Ministries of National Security, Legal Affairs, and Foreign Affairs, along with the Grenada Airport Authority
“Any decisions will be made only after all technical and legal assessments are completed,” the government said, assuring citizens that any action taken
will prioritize Grenada’s sovereignty, national interest, and public safety
However, Humphrey warned that recent U S actions including the reported revocation of Grenada’s finance minister’s visa, calls to end the island’s health brigade program with Cuba, and trade restrictions on local seafood exports — are part of what he described as efforts to “soften” Grenada into cooperating with Washington’s broader geopolitical agenda
“If we agree to this (U.S. radar request), it is like Grenada being the place from where an invasion occurred,” he said “There are times in the lives of men when you have to stand for something The worst thing you can do in the face of a bully is to run ”
Humphrey accused the U S of targeting Venezuela for its vast oil reserves, calling the pressure campaign against Maduro “ a case of robbery ”
He also noted the irony of the timing, recalling that it was in October 1983 when U S forces invaded Grenada following the coup that led to the death of Prime Minister Maurice Bishop
“It’s ironic that in October, the Americans are back again,” Humphrey said, adding that Grenada must not allow history to repeat itself
Dominica to honor late prime ministers with nation’s highest award
The Dominica government presented a motion in Parliament on Tuesday seeking approval to confer the country’s highest national honor posthumously on former prime ministers Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles
According to a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, the motion recognizes the “extraordinary national service and leadership” of both men, whose contributions “advanced Dominica’s development and inspired citizens through their dedication to social justice, education, and community upliftment ”
The government described Douglas and Charles as leaders who served the nation “with vision and courage,” adding that the tribute marks “ a moment for the nation to honour two leaders who gave their all to our people, and whose example continues to inspire our spirit of resilience and our collective pursuit of a stronger, more united Dominica ”
The Award of Honour will be conferred posthumously during the official 47th anniversary of Independence observance ceremony on November 3 Douglas, a key figure in Dominica’s independence movement, launched the Popular Independence Committee, which agitated for full political independence from Great Britain, helping to pave the way for the island to gain independence in 1978 After serving as a senator in the post-independence government, he won the Paix Bouche constituency seat in 1985 and later became the Dominica Labour Party’s International Secretary Following the death of his brother Michael Douglas in 1992, he assumed the party’s leadership
Known for his advocacy of socialist-inspired reform, Douglas led the DLP to victory in the January 2000 general election, defeating the United Workers’ Party of then-Prime Minister Edison James He formed a coalition with the Dominica Freedom Party and took office as Prime Minister on February 3, 2000
When the DLP-DFP coalition assumed power, Pierre Charles was appointed Minister of Public Works and Communications During Douglas’s brief eight-month tenure, Charles frequently served as Acting Prime Minister. After Douglas’s sudden death in October 2000, Charles succeeded him as head of government, continuing to serve until his own passing in January 2004
Turns Deadly
Thompson testified that she had gone to Hodgson’s apartment uninvited to talk “woman-to-woman” about their shared romantic interest. She said the discussion quickly turned violent
"She just starts grabbing my hair and punching me," Thompson told jurors "I’m on the floor I’m kicking I’m trying to get up to fight back at this point cause now it’s a fight "
At the time, Thompson said she was two months pregnant She claimed Hodgson struck her over the head with a hookah stem and slashed her stomach with a piece of glass
"I killed her because she took the glass from the hookah and slashed me across my stomach," Thompson said "I told her I was pregnant and I felt like she was trying to hurt my baby I didn’t just fight for me I fought for me and my baby "
After the struggle, Thompson admitted to panicking, cleaning parts of the scene with Lysol wipes and paper towels, discarding her bloody clothes, and changing into Hodgson’s outfit before leaving Surveillance footage later showed her exiting the apartment complex in different clothing from when she arrived around 4 a m
"I was pregnant, and I just killed somebody," she told the courtroom, explaining why she did not call the police
Defense attorneys insisted that Thompson did not initiate the fight and that the killing was unplanned
"She thought, 'Oh, God, she’s coming for me and my baby,'" said Ros Meritxell, a defense attorney
"That’s when she grabs the glass, and she blacks out She knows she slashed, she’s not saying she didn’t cause that, she can’t tell you the order that it happened in This was a fight, a mutual fight "
The state said Thompson attempted to conceal her identity that night by wearing a hat and a COVID-19 mask and using a fake Uber account to travel to and from the apartment The defense countered that there was no evidence Thompson brought a weapon and that Hodgson allowed her into her home
The jury’s guilty verdict brings a close to a case that captured Broward County’s attention and highlights the tragic consequences of jealousy and violence
Humphrey
US delivers armored vehicles to Haiti’s new Gang
Suppression Force
The United States has delivered 20 armored vehicles to Haiti’s newly established Gang Suppression Force (GSF) the first major equipment shipment for the 5,500-member UNbacked mission created to tackle rampant gang violence across the country
Despite the delivery, no official deployment date has been announced Key questions also remain about the GSF’s funding sources, aside from voluntary contributions, and how its members are being recruited, as the force is still in its formative stages
“These vehicles will strengthen the capacity of the GSF and the Haitian National Police (PNH) to counter the deadly gangs terrorizing the people of Haiti,” the U S Embassy in Haiti said in an Oct 8 statement, reaffirming Washington’s support for the country’s security efforts
T h e G S F s u c c e e d s t h e K e n y a - l e d
Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), whose mandate expired on Oct 2 after achieving limited progress against armed groups that now control roughly 90% of Port-au-Prince The new force — composed of both military and police personnel — aims to reinforce anti-gang operations and lay the groundwork for Haiti’s return to democratic governance
The U S Permanent Mission to the UN confirmed last week that discussions are underway with member states, including Caribbean Community (Caricom) nations, to coordinate the GSF’s structure and eventual deployment
Meanwhile, Guatemala has become the first country to pledge new personnel for the mission
Some 150 Guatemalan military officers, including 19 women, are currently in training to join the GSF Colonel Alfredo Sáenz said the United Nations has not yet requested their deployment but noted the troops are ready to assist once called
For now, the United States says it will maintain its support as the new mission takes shape — a crucial move amid persistent violence and political instability in Haiti, where communities continue to endure daily attacks from heavily armed gangs
Child malnutrition doubles in Haiti, says World Food Programme
Women, children, and displaced families are bearing the brunt of Haiti’s prolonged crisis, which has pushed hunger and malnutrition to alarming new levels, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Monday following the release of the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis.
According to the report, a record 5 7 million Haitians more than half the population are now facing acute food insecurity, marking a three percent increase from last year Child malnutrition has doubled in two years, with 14 percent of children under five affected, compared to 7 percent in 2023 Some regions are recording even higher rates
“WFP has ramped up its response to reach a record 2 2 million Haitians this year,” said WFP Haiti Country Director Wanja Kaaria “However, needs continue to outpace resources If this continues, families will potentially fall further into hunger, and we simply don’t have the resources to meet all the growing needs ” Armed violence, economic decline, persistent inflation, and weak agricultural production continue to drive the crisis The IPC warns that if current trends persist, more than 5 9 million people could face severe hunger or worse by March 2026 In the North-West and West departm e n t s i n c l u d i n g P o r t - a uPrince malnutrition rates have already reached “Critical” (Phase 4) levels or higher
Among the most vulnerable are 1 3 million people displaced by armed conflict
Three in four of those sheltering in schools or public buildings are now experiencing Crisis (IPC Phase 3) or Emergency (Phase 4) levels of hunger Overcrowded shelters and poor sanitation, combined with limited access to nutritious food, have placed babies and young children at extreme risk of malnutrition
Still, the IPC analysis notes some progress from humanitarian efforts Expanded food assistance has helped lift around 8,400 displaced people from Catastrophic (IPC Phase 5) to Emergency (Phase 4) levels of hunger, while sustained aid has reduced the number of Haitians facing Emergency-level food insecurity by roughly 200,000 since April
“These small but significant gains show that when WFP has the resources and works closely with governments and partners, we can turn the tide of hunger,” Kaaria said “With sustained and predictable support, we can continue to reduce
food insecurity while investing in long-term solutions that tackle its root causes ”
Despite those gains, Haiti’s crisis remains critically underfunded The WFP says it needs an additional US$139 million over the next 12 months to continue supporting the country’s
Kaaria
Is Mia Mottley most effective Caribbean leader or just the most outspoken?
Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley is
currently one of the more prominent Caribbean leaders There are strong arguments both for her being extremely effective and particularly outspoken on the world stage While other world leaders were noticeably conservative, even cautious, in their individual addresses at the recent meeting of the General Assembly of the United Nations, PM Mottley was, as has come to be expected, very bold in her approach, calling on the world’s developed countries, including the United States, to focus more on assisting in the development of smaller nations, particularly in the area of climate change
Mottley’s courageous and bold style of speaking on the international stage has endeared her to many within and outside the Caribbean, regarding her as the region’s most effective leader
Mottley, aside from gaining notoriety for her bold and frank voice, has backed this up with key achievements under her leadership in Barbados since taking office in 2018 Among her more outstanding achievements is her work on climate change She has pushed a plan to phase out fossil fuels in Barbados by 2030 and has initiated another program for Barbados to plant more than one million trees to enhance resilience and food security, engaging citizens in environmental restoration
Internationally, she has helped to lead regional and global initiatives, like the Bridgetown Initiative, calling for reform of the international financial architecture to better serve, among others, small island developing states vulnerable to climate change
Her government has reduced Barbados’s debt-to-GDP ratio from very high levels through renegotiation of debts and creative financial instruments Despite economic shocks caused by storms, COVID-19, and dependence on tourism, Barbados has shifted toward economic diversification through solar and green energy,
as well as the digital economy
Under Mottley’s leadership, Barbados promptly transitioned to being a republic, cutting ties with the British monarchy something very meaningful for Barbados’ national identity and sovereignty
Mottley’s style of leadership is blatantly visible She doesn’t shy away from addressing global inequality, colonial legacies, climate justice, among other issues This has given Barbados and the Caribbean more voice on the global stage
All this suggests she’s more than just an outspoken speaker She combines visible international advocacy with concrete policy and has won strong electoral mandates
But being vocal doesn’t always equal effectiveness, and there are limits and criticisms Some people are unhesitant in pointing out that Barbados is small, which sometimes makes ambitious policies easier or more visible than in larger nations Small island economies are vulnerable to external shocks like hurricanes, climate disasters, dependence on tourism, and global supply chain issues Even with strong leadership, those vulnerabilities limit success
Some critics argue about pace, implementation, or whether promises always match outcomes, especially when international funding or cooperation is required So, while Mottley’s outspokenness helps her bring global attention to issues like climate justice, reparations, and global inequality, that isn’t a guarantee of success She needs tools, resources, and cooperation to back up the rhetoric, her critics argue
Comparison is often made between Mottley and Jamaica’s PM Holness, who recently led his Jamaica Labour Party to a historic third consecutive term Despite criticism from his political opponents, Holness has also made significant achievements
Under Holness, Jamaica has made credible
strides in improving some macroeconomic fundamentals For example, the debt-to-GDP ratio has been reduced, employment improved, and inflation more stable His administration raised income tax thresholds, cut certain taxes like the GCT on electricity, increased the minimum wage, invested heavily in infrastructure development, and has initiated social safety net programs But social problems like crime remain a big issue in Jamaica, and while improvements exist, they're not uniform Public perception still sees insecurity, corruption, and inequality as major problems The scale of Jamaica’s socioeconomic challenges is large Issues like social and economic inequality are persistent deficits, which easily make big wins in one area offset by persistent problems in others
Mottley and Holness have made significant achievements, but when one prioritizes international visibility, climate advocacy, moral leadership, and exemplary policies addressing small-island vulnerabilities, Mottley is arguably near the top Mia Mottley is a very effective leader in terms of agenda-setting and combining internationally relevant causes with domestic policy wins Whether she is the most effective Caribbean leader depends on what people value But her bold outspokenness creates the perception that she’s the beacon of Caribbean leadership She effectively pairs strong domestic performance with exceptional international advocacy She has elevated Barbados, and by extension, the Caribbean, onto the world stage more than any regional leader since perhaps Eric Williams or Michael Manley
US State Dept. releases October 2025 visa bulletin
The U.S. Department of State has released the Visa Bulletin for October 2025, providing updated wait times for familyand employment-based green card applicants This monthly bulletin determines when applicants can move forward in the immigration process
For October, U S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed that:
Family-based applicants and employmentbased applicants must use the “Dates for Filing” chart
Key Highlights: FamilyBased Categories
The October 2025 bulletin brought significant progress across several familysponsored preference categories:
• F-2B (Unmarried Adult Children of Green Card Holders – Mexico) advanced more than 8 months
F-1 (Unmarried Adult Children of U S Citizens – Mexico) moved ahead over 4 months
continues on B1 – Bulletin
US naturalization civics test set for major overhaul this month
The U.S. government announced a major update to the naturalization civics test, making it longer and more challenging for applicants seeking citizenship
Beginning October 20, 2025, applicants will face up to 20 questions drawn from a wider pool, and they must answer more correctly to pass
The changes, published Thursday by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will not affect applicants who already filed or submit their N-400 (Application for Naturalization) before the deadline These individuals will continue to take the simpler 2008 version of the test
“This 2025 version carries forward the major elements of the 2020 test, including making the test longer, expanding the pool of possible questions, and increasing the number of correct answers necessary to pass,” said Erik Finch, director of global operations at Boundless and a former USCIS officer “Unlike the 2020 proposal, the officer will now stop administering the test once the applicant has either passed or
failed, rather than asking all 20 questions ”
Special provisions remain for applicants 65 or older with at least 20 years as permanent residents, who will continue to take a simplified 10-question version, needing 6 correct answers to pass
USCIS also announced stricter naturalization standards, including tighter reviews of disability exceptions, enhanced assessment of “good moral character,” and the resumption of neighborhood checks to verify eligibility. The English language component of the test remains unchanged
Before October 20, 2025: Applicants
who file by this date or have pending applications will take the simpler 2008 test
Those hoping to avoid the harder version have just 30 days to submit their paperwork
After October 20, 2025: Applicants must prepare for the more comprehensive test and factor in additional study time, particularly for those whose first language is not English
The updated test represents the first major revision in years and restores key elements of the short-lived 2020 test, raising the bar for civic knowledge in the naturalization process
US introduces $1 registration fee for Diversity Visa Lottery
The U S Department of State (DOS) announced that beginning October 16, 2025, all individuals registering for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery commonly known as the “ green card lottery” will be required to pay a $1 electronic registration fee This marks the first time participants will be charged simply to enter the annual lottery
The State Department said the new fee is intended to distribute the costs of managing the program more evenly across all registrants, rather than placing the burden solely on the small number of winners who proceed to
submit visa applications
Key details:
• $1 Registration Fee: All applicants must pay $1 when submitting their entry through the official U S government portal
Application Fee Unchanged: The standard $330 DV application fee for selected applicants remains in place Some administrative costs that were previously included in the application fee are now covered by the registration fee
• Non-Refundable: The registration fee will not be refunded, regardless of lottery results, and cannot be transferred between lottery years
The DV lottery provides up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually to individuals from countries with historically low levels of U S immigration. According to DOS, tens of millions of entries are submitted each year, generating significant administrative costs By introducing the registration fee, the department expects that roughly 25 million
annual registrants will help offset program costs, generating approximately $25 million annually for system upgrades, security reviews, and enhanced data collection DOS also noted the fee could reduce fraud by discouraging third-party scammers from submitting multiple fake entries
Officials anticipate that the new fee may lead to a slight decline in registrations, potentially improving applicants’ odds while easing the administrative burden
DHS streamlines filing process for certain agricultural worker petitions
The U S Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in coordination with the Department of Labor (DOL), has announced a final rule to modernize and streamline the filing process for certain temporary agricultural worker petitions under the H-2A program The rule took effect on October 2, 2025
The new regulation allows U S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to begin processing petitions for H2A temporary agricultural workers while DOL reviews the corresponding applications for temporary labor certification (TLC). The change is designed to speed up processing and provide more flexibility for U S agricultural employers
“This change allows USCIS to support American farmers in their critical work for our nation while also ensuring that they hire thoroughly screened and vetted foreign labor,” said USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser “When migrants choose legal pathways to employment in the United States, it benefits American businesses, public confidence in the rule of law, and the foreign workers themselves ”
Beginning October 2, petitioners seeking
Bulletin fromA8
unnamed beneficiaries may electronically file the newly created Form I-129H2A, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker: H-2A Classification, after DOL issues a notice of acceptance of the TLC application and before it is approved
• F-2A (Spouses and Children of Green Card Holders) advanced nearly 4 months across all countries
• F-3 (Married Children of U S Citizens –Philippines) progressed by 3 months
• F-4 (Brothers and Sisters of U S Citizens) moved forward 2 months for China and “All Other Areas,” and by 2 weeks for India
Key Highlights: Employment-Based Categories
• The employment-based visa categories also saw major advancements: EB-1 advanced 6 months for China and more than a year for India
• EB-2 moved ahead by nearly one year for all countries
• EB-3 and Other Worker categories saw large jumps for China and India
• EB-5 (Investor Program – India) advanced over two years, marking the biggest movement this month
With the start of the new fiscal year, EB-4 became available again, reopening with a February 15, 2021 priority date for all countries
What Is the Visa Bulletin?
The Visa Bulletin acts like a monthly progress report for green card applicants, showing where each category stands in line
• Priority Dates: Your priority date is your place in line
• Dates for Filing: If your priority date is earlier than the listed cut-off date, you can submit your application
• Final Action Dates: These indicate when the government is actually ready to approve your green card
The gap between “Dates for Filing” and “Final Action Dates” represents the estimated processing time There are two main ways to move forward once your date becomes current:
• Adjustment of Status – if you ’ re already living in the United States
• Consular Processing – if you ’ re applying from outside the U S
The information above is drawn directly from the U S Department of State’s October 2025 Visa Bulletin, based on data from Section 203 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), with family and employmentbased cut-off dates detailed in Charts 4 A–5 B Full bulletin available at travel state gov
Petitioners must include the ETA case number issued by DOL with their initial filing, allowing USCIS to start processing sooner However, no petitions will be approved until DOL has finalized the corresponding TLC
The TLC serves as DHS’s consultation with DOL to confirm that no qualified U S worker is available for the job and that hiring foreign workers will not adversely affect wages or working conditions of similarly employed U S workers
The new Form I-129H2A can only be filed online by uploading a completed PDF through a USCIS online account Paper submissions will be rejected Initially, the form will only be available for petitioners filing for unnamed beneficiaries without Form G-28, though DHS plans to expand its use to include named beneficiaries and those filing with legal representation in the coming weeks
Employers who prefer to file by paper must continue to use the existing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, and follow current procedures The procedural updates introduced in this rule do not apply to H-2A petitions with named beneficiaries or paper-filed petitions
According to DHS, the modernization effort aims to make the H-2A process more efficient for U S farmers while maintaining safeguards that protect both domestic and foreign agricultural workers
Open Carry
While Publix will now allow open carry, other major retailers in the state are taking different approaches Walmart, Winn Dixie, Harveys, and Fresco y Más have issued statements regarding their concealed carry policies, while stores such as Costco and Target maintain strict no-gun policies, banning both open and concealed firearms
Publix is popular among many Caribbean nationals in Florida, who appreciate the chain’s community engagement and cultural inclusivity The supermarket actively participates in Caribbean American Heritage Month, hosting in-store events celebrating Caribbean culture through food, music, and cultural displays
For Caribbean shoppers who frequent Publix, the new open carry policy may be a change to get used to, but the chain emphasizes safety and a respectful shopping environment
Celebrating 28 years of healing, hope and humanity
ByAnthonyTurner
For the past 28 years, New Jersey-based Caribbean Medical Mission (CMM) has made the trek to the Caribbean and Africa with the expressed mission of providing free medical care to underserved communities that need it most
On November 1, the organization will host its annual Black Tie Gala at The Grand, 38 Lackawanna Avenue in Totowa, New Jersey. Music will be provided by DJ Supreme
“Funds raised from the gala will help our trip next year to Belize, so we really need folks to come on out and support us,” said Dr Donna Hutton-Cassie, President of the CMM
This year, Dr Montrae Calhoun Thomas, a pediatrician in New Jersey, and Mr Michael Wattkis will be honored by the CMM for their mission of service to New Jersey
“Recognizing them (Dr Thomas and Mr Wattkis) makes everyone aware of the value and the impact they have had on the community,” Dr Hutton-Cassie informed
For the past 40 years, Dr Thomas has worked tirelessly caring for the children of North Jersey She has also inspired and mentored many young, aspiring physicians Mike Wattkis, who co-founded the Mystic United Soccer Club and launched the Heritage Invitational Soccer Tournament & Health Fair, is an accomplished journalist and community advocate He has spent decades strengthening Caribbean and American communities through education, sports, and mentorship
“Recognizing these individuals will encourage others to do community service and inspire them to get involved It’s also important to let them know that all the work that they have done is appreciated I think sometimes we don’t recognize those who
are out there doing the work,” Dr HuttonCassie reminded
Speaking about the genesis of the Caribbean Medical Mission, Dr Cassie said, “Our founders realized there were people, especially in rural areas, who lack access to even the most basic healthcare It was started when the need was recognized in Jamaica by then Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Hon Portia Simpson Miller,” Dr Hutton-Cassie informed
“Since then, we ’ ve been going to Jamaica and to other countries, providing free health care We usually have doctors
with us, including an ophthalmologist This is our past president, Dr Winston Scott We have an OBGYN, pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and internists. We have nurses and our support staff to help us with the people we are serving,” she said
“All of our members volunteer their time,” she explained “The doctors close their private practices, nurses take vacation time, and support staff come along, all at their own expense They pay their way because they believe in giving back ”
“CMM collaborates closely with the Ministry of Health in each host country to ensure all medications and treatments meet national standards In Jamaica, for example, we have treated hundreds of patients with glaucoma,” Dr Cassie said “Many were not on proper medication or had never received treatment Our ophthalmologist, Dr Scott, sometimes sees up to 400 patients in a single day,” she said CMM has, over the years, donated dialysis machines, EKG units to local clinics, provided eyeglasses, medication, and free consultations to thousands
SHIPPING IS OUR BUSINESS
Caribbean Medical Mission donates to the Jamaica Cancer Society
Uthmeier
Hutton-Cassie
COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA
FITCE to mark 10th anniversary with Convention Center Expansion grand opening
The Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE) is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary in historic fashion, with the grand opening of the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center Expansion serving as the centerpiece of this year ’ s event
The two-day expo, hosted by the County’s Office of Economic and Small Business Development
( O E S B D ) , t a k e s p l a c e o n Wednesday, October 22, and Thursday, October 23, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale
OESBD has announced recordbreaking community and business support for this milestone edition of FITCE — the highest in the event’s history The timing aligns perfectly with the debut of the newly expanded convention center, a project that symbolizes Broward County’s ongoing economic growth
and development
The $1 billion expansion of the Broward County Convention Center and OMNI Hotel employed more than 70 local small businesses as subcontractors, reflecting the County’s commitment to job creation and supporting local
enterprises
“The ability to showcase the Convention Center Expansion during FITCE will allow Broward County to deliver economic development with a dash of history as it recognizes an important FITCE anniversary while inaugurating
such a transformational project,” the County said in a statement “The expansion project provides new opportunities and job creation, adding to residents’ quality of life and enhancing the County’s economic growth ”
OESBD Director Maribel Feliciano emphasized the importance of community collaboration in making this year ’ s celebration possible
“FITCE will be the first event to unveil the Convention Center Expansion and will create a historic moment and beautiful backdrop to showcase Broward County as we welcome and engage attendees from around the world,” said Feliciano
FITCE 2025 will highlight the t h e m e s o f G o v e r n m e n t
Procurement and Artificial Intelligence (AI), continuing its tradition of promoting international
trade, business connections, and innovation Each year, the Expo attracts more than 2,000 attendees — including international heads of state, government officials, and delegations from over 70 countries
Sponsors and Partners
Signature Sponsor: Broward County Cultural Division World Sponsors: Broward County Port Everglades, Broward County Aviation Department, City of Miramar World Expo Marketplace Pavilion Sponsors: North American Economic Herald Media Group (Asian Pavilion) and SEM Radio (Caribbean Pavilion)
A full list of sponsors, exhibitors, and event activities along with confirmed dignitaries and the updated a g e n d a
FITCExpo com
Broward Judge publicly reprimanded by Florida Supreme Court for misconduct
Broward Circuit Judge Stefanie Moon appeared before the Florida Supreme Court on Thursday to receive a public reprimand for misconduct on the bench — standing silently as the justices recounted a series of ethical violations committed during her 2024 reelection campaign
The reprimand formally concludes a disciplinary case in which Moon was accused of asking an attorney from the bench why he had not returned a fundraising call, engaging in exparte communication with a witness in a restraining order case, and making partisan political donations, all in violation of judicial ethics rules
“Your behavior in these instances is unacceptable,” Chief Justice Carlos Muñiz told Moon “You have discredited yourself, and your thoughtless actions have risked undermining public confidence in the judiciary as a whole We hope never to see you again under circumstances like this ” Moon did not dispute the allegations before the Judicial Qualifications Commission She previously served a 10-day suspension and paid a $2,115 fine as part of her discipline Her appearance before the Supreme Court lasted less than three minutes, during which she did not speak
The commission’s investigation found that Moon’s misconduct began in February 2024, when she was in the midst of her first re-election campaign While presiding over court in her robe, she questioned a lawyer — who supported her opponent — about not returning a recent call That call, she later admitted, had been a campaign solicitation The commission labeled her conduct “inherently coercive ” Moon’s case is one of five disciplinary actions brought this year against Broward County judges by the Judicial Qualifications Commission, highlighting a period of intense scrutiny for the South Florida judiciary
Moon
How a New Law Could Impact Medical Marijuana Patients
During Florida’s 2025 Legislative Session, legislators passed Senate Bill 2514 , which includes a provision that medical marijuana
p a t i e n t s s h o u l d b e a w a r e o f ( s e e flsenate gov/Session/Bill/2025/2514 for more information) Signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, it introduces the prospect of some patients immediately losing the ability to legally use medical cannabis if convicted of involvement in illegal drug activity
SB 2514, which went into effect on July 1, enacts a new penalty aimed at medical marijuana cardholders and their caregivers who violate Chapter 893, Drug Abuse Prevention and Control, of the Florida Statutes (head to https://www leg state fl us for more information)
The new law states that the Florida Department of Health(FDOH) must revoke the registration of a qualified patient or caregiver “convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to, regardless of adjudication, a violation of Chapter 893 if such violation was for trafficking in, the sale, manufacture, or delivery of, or possession with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver a controlled substance ” Recreational marijuana is an illegal substance in Florida
“This particular instance relates to drug trafficking, sale, the manufacture, delivery, and possession with intent,” clarifies Sha'Ron James, a Tallahassee-based lawyer and lobbyist with expertise in healthcare and cannabis policies. “So, a simple possession [of illicit marijuana] would not fit the scope of this particular law ”
Ms James explains that enforcement of the law is up to FDOH, which includes the Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU) OMMU issues medical marijuana registration cards to patients with qualifying conditions for treatment and their caregivers (go to knowthefactsmmj com for more information)
More than 920,000 full- or part-time Florida residents currently hold active medical
There hasnt been a tremendous amount of agency action that specifically finds how the agency will apply the statute. There's also not a process where law enforcement specifically notifies the Department of Health of a person's convictions. So, it really is on the cardholder to monitor that and be aware that their card may no longer be valid,” – James
cannabis ID cards
“But in order for this law to be implemented, there has to be, and there will be, some degree of coordination between the Department of Health and law enforcement,” she adds
While SB 2514 does not explicitly state if it’s retroactive, it is likely to apply to past
charges or convictions for a Chapter 893
offense Ms James thinks the law’s implementation is “definitely something that will need to be monitored ”
“At this point, there hasn't been a tremendous amount of agency action that more specifically finds how the agency will apply and implement the statute,” she notes
Currently, there isn’t a process in place for notifying cardholders or registered caregivers that their medical marijuana ID registrations have been revoked for Chapter 893 violations
“There's also not a process where law enforcement specifically notifies the Department of Health of a person's convictions So, it really is on the cardholder to monitor that and be aware that their card may no longer be valid,” she says “An example would be if you have your card revoked because of one of these convictions, and you ' re stopped, that means that you are no longer in lawful possession of the marijuana that you receive through your medical marijuana card And that's something people should be very aware of ”
Ms James believes it’s unclear whether a suspension will be reported to medical marijuana qualified physicians and cannabis dispensaries. Such details could be ironed out in a rulemaking process
According to the law, anyone who loses a medical marijuana ID may seek its reinstatement by submitting “ a new application accompanied by a notarized attestation by the applicant that he or she has completed all terms of incarceration, probation, community control, or supervision related to the offense ”
The new law could lead to a reduction in the number of medical marijuana ID holders, Ms James points out, which could impact physicians and dispensaries working in the cannabis space
Editor’s note: This commentary is provided by the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) of Florida A&M University
Visit bit ly/MMERIAugust2025 to watch MMERI’s Conversations on Cannabis Virtual Forum featuring attorney Sha’Ron James discussing “How a New Law Could Affect Medical Marijuana Patients ”
ENTERTAINMENT
‘This one is about
impact’
Joe Bogdanovich honored with American Friends of Jamaica Award
ByAnthonyTurner
On, October 10, Downsound Records founder Joe Bogdanovich received the prestigious International Achievement Award from the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) at the 2025 Hummingbird Gala, scheduled for the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York City. The Reggae Sumfest boss was recognized for his contribution to Jamaica’s culture, the global entertainment landscape, and his philanthropic efforts
Cultural advocate Jason Henzell, son of “The Harder They Come” film producer Hazel
Humanitarian Award
Bogdanovich’s impact on Jamaica’s entertainment industry is phenomenal He has helped to revitalize the Reggae Sumfest festival brand This began in 2016 when his company, DownSound Records, acquired Reggae Sumfest from Summerfest Productions Limited In fact, this year ’ s 2025 Reggae Sumfest with Vybz Kartel and R&B hitmaker Toni Braxton was hailed as the biggest in the festival’s three-decade history
Other career highlights include using the Reggae Sumfest brand to give Jamaican artists an important platform to showcase their talent He has also used Reggae Sumfest to bring visibility to Jamaica’s tourism brand by drawing global attention to the island’s music and culture With Reggae Sumfest concert attendees making the trek in droves to Montego Bay from all parts of the globe, it is documented that the festival pumps billions of dollars annually into the Jamaican economy
Bogdanovich is also passionate about his philanthropic work He has supported Jamaica’s youth and the creative industries
through his DownSound Records Foundation, which has invested in educational and youthfocused programs In 2021, days after Haiti had been devastated by a major earthquake and a tropical storm, his company donated $5 million to the Food For the Poor Help Haiti Fund During the COVID-19 pandemic, his Caribbean Love Now Foundation donated over a million dollars to the Ministry of Health and Wellness for COVID-19 relief
While Bogdanovich has received many awards during his decorated career, the AFJ’s International Achievement Award means a lot to him
Prior to the gala, Caribbean National Weekly was given carte blanche access for an exclusive interview with the US-born, Jamaican-based business mogul
Here are a few of the questions we asked
1. You have received multiple awards in your career. Why is this one extra special?
I’m always so grateful and humbled to be recognized for my work This one is special because it represents more than just business success; it’s about impact The American Friends of Jamaica is an organization that’s deeply rooted in giving back, uplifting communities, and supporting Jamaica’s growth So, to be recognized by them means the work we ’ re doing, through music, culture, and philanthropy, is resonating on a higher level It’s about using entertainment as a bridge to create opportunity, hope, and pride in Jamaica That’s what makes this award particularly meaningful
2. What is your biggest accomplishment and why?
My biggest accomplishment is helping to position Jamaica as a global cultural powerhouse, where music, art, and creativity thrive as serious industries Through Reggae Sumfest, Downsound Entertainment, and partnerships with incredible artists, we ’ ve been able to create sustainable opportunities that empower others It’s not just about producing shows; it’s about building platforms that give young Jamaicans a voice and a vision for the future That’s legacy work
3. People say Vybz Kartel is Jamaica’s biggest dancehall artist! Is this true?
Kartel is a lyrical genius He’s one of the most talented and influential artists Jamaica has ever produced He’s transcended the boundaries of music to become a cultural symbol His storytelling, his wordplay, his understanding of the streets and the people, it’s all unmatched He connects with fans on a deeply human level, and that’s what great artists do They reflect society, challenge norms, and inspire movement
4. Why has the world gravitated to him so much?
Kartel represents authenticity and resilience He’s unfiltered, fearless, and constantly evolving Whether it’s love songs, social commentary, or hard-hitting dancehall anthems, there’s always a layer of genius in his delivery People see themselves in him He’s the voice of the people, and that’s universal
5. The Freedom Street, which you produced at the National Stadium last December, was a career-defining moment for Kartel. Talk about your role in Kartels success Freedom Street is a project that symbolizes more than a concert; it’s a movement It’s about restoration, redemption, and reconnection with the fans who’ve stood by him for years Downsound Entertainment’s role has been to create the right platform for Kartel to showcase his brilliance in a new era of dancehall – one that celebrates the art form, professionalism, and global appeal We’ve worked to make sure his return is not just historic, but transformational for the industry It’s about changing the narrative and raising the bar for what’s possible in dancehall
5. Whats next on the agenda to achieve in dancehall and the music industry for you? Through our companies, I want to continue building infrastructure, more festivals, more collaborations, and more international exposure for Jamaican artistes The world is looking to Jamaica for creativity and inspiration, and we have to deliver it in a modern, professional, and scalable way The goal is to expand Reggae Sumfest’s global footprint, support new talent, and create a year-round ecosystem that keeps Jamaican music at the center of the world stage The future is about evolution, and we ’ re just getting started
Dutch prosecutors seek longer sentence for reggae star Jah Cure
Dutch prosecutors are pushing for a longer prison sentence for Jamaican reggae artist Jah Cure, as they continue their appeal in his ongoing legal battle in the Netherlands
A representative from the Netherlands Prosecution Service told Observer Online on Thursday that the Public Prosecutor’s Office is seeking a 9 5-year prison sentence for the singer, whose real name is Siccature Alcock, on a charge of attempted murder The case stems from the stabbing of Dutch concert promoter Nicardo “Papa” Blake in October 2021
“In November, the Supreme Court will issue the ruling,” the spokesperson said The renewed push comes as prosecutors continue to challenge the court’s initial decision to acquit the Unconditional Love singer of attempted murder. Jah Cure’s defense team has also filed an appeal against his attempted manslaughter conviction, for which he was sentenced to six years in prison in March 2022
The incident occurred in Amsterdam following a dispute over unpaid performance fees While the court acknowledged that Jah Cure had stabbed Blake, judges ruled at the time that the act was not premeditated, leading to his acquittal on the more serious charge of attempted murder Jah Cure remains in pre-trial detention in Amsterdam as both appeals continue The final ruling from the Dutch Supreme Court is expected in November
Jason Henzell (left) and Joe Bogdanovich display their International Achievement Awards citations as they ank New York’s Deputy Mayor for Intergovernmental Affairs Tiffany Raspberry
Jah Cure
Reggae Boyz reignite World Cup push with 4-0 demolition of Bermuda
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz reclaimed command of Group B in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers with an emphatic 4-0 dismantling of Bermuda inside Kingston’s National Stadium on Tuesday night
After a shaky opening, a fortuitous own goal from Bermuda captain Dante Leverock set the tone before Bobby Reid and Shamar Nicholson tightened Jamaica’s grip before halftime Substitute Dujuan “Whisper” Richards later sealed the three points in a commanding display that restored both confidence and control
The result, combined with Trinidad and Tobago’s late equalizer away to Curaçao in Willemstad, propelled Jamaica back to the summit on nine points Curaçao slipped to second with eight, followed by Trinidad and Tobago on five, while Bermuda’s campaign all but ended — four defeats from four, and still without a point
Smarting from Friday’s 0-2 defeat to Curaçao, head coach Steve McClaren rang the changes — five in all — to spark a reaction His reshuffled attack delivered in style
At the forefront was Shamar Nicholson, Jamaica’s leading scorer in these qualifiers, who entered the match with four goals and a point to prove after his surprising omission from last summer ’ s Gold Cup squad McClaren deployed Nicholson in a lively front three with Renaldo Cephas on the left and Kaheim Dixon on the right, supported by the energetic Kasey Palmer in midfield
For the first time in the Englishman’s tenure, the Reggae Boyz looked genuinely potent in attack — cohesive, fluid, and relentless, even allowing for the modest caliber of their opposition
After a period of cautious probing, the breakthrough came in the 24th minute Palmer, fouled midway Bermuda’s half, whipped in a teasing free kick that Leverock inadvertently headed past his own goalkeeper The home crowd had barely caught its breath when Cephas darted down the left flank and squared for Reid to tuck home from close range two minutes later — 2-0 and cruising
By then, Jamaica’s front four were in full command, penning Bermuda deep and forcing hurried clearances Cephas was a constant menace, his pace and trickery too much for his marker In the 35th minute, he once again turned provider, cutting in from the wing before laying off for Nicholson to slot home his fifth goal of the campaign and his 21st international strike
The Reggae Boyz were in full rhythm Dixon nearly added a fourth before halftime, only for his angled drive to be brilliantly tipped onto the crossbar by goalkeeper Daley Eve, who did his best to stem the tide
Jamaica continued to dictate after the break, enjoying 75 percent possession and unleashing 28 shots in total Cephas twice went close before being substituted to generous applause in the 72nd minute
Enter Dujuan Richards, whose bright 30-minute cameo brought
flair and finality The young forward exuded confidence and was rewarded on 76 minutes, rifling home Jamaica’s fourth after a solo run from midway the half It was a fitting flourish to a performance that restored both pride and purpose ahead of two decisive away fixtures
After the match, McClaren hailed the performance and the collective mentality that underpinned it
“I think it was a great response from the team,” he said “What we wanted was to be back in control of the group, and I thank Trinidad for getting a result at Curaçao. It’s still a lot of work to do, but we ’ re pleased with the reaction and the performance
Looking ahead, McClaren emphasized the importance of consistency and structure
“The players knew the result against Curaçao was disappointing and wanted a reaction — you could see that in training and in the performance tonight There’s still a long way to go We just hope the players stay healthy, keep playing for their clubs, and maybe we can get even stronger with returning players ”
Brian Lara honored with CEAT Lifetime Achievement Award
West Indies cricket icon Brian Lara was bestowed with the CEAT Lifetime Achievement Award on Tuesday, adding yet another jewel to his storied career
The honor came during the 2025 CEAT Cricket Rating Awards, an annual celebration of global excellence in the sport
The 56-year-old batting maestro, famed for his artistry and enduring records, was presented with the award by none other than Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar, himself one of the most revered names in world cricket
Lara’s link to the CEAT awards stretches back nearly three decades. When tyre manufacturer CEAT introduced its cricket rating system in 1995, Lara made history just a year later as the CEAT Cricketer of the Year His name has remained synonymous with brilliance ever since — especially for his unbeaten 400-run Test record, a feat still unmatched in world cricket
In a moving social media tribute, CEAT hailed Lara’s enduring influence and unmatched flair:
“Some careers set records; a few set horizons Tonight, we honour Brian Lara with the CEAT Lifetime Achievement Award – a salute to craft, charisma, and a legacy that continues to guide how greatness is imagined ”
Sharing the spotlight, former Indian leg-spin great B S Chandrasekhar was also honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award, acknowledging his pivotal role in India’s cricketing rise during the 1970s
Among active cricketers, England’s Joe Root claimed the International Cricketer of the Year award, while his compatriot Harry Brook was named Test Batsman of the Year after amassing over 500 runs at an impressive average of 53 90
Sri Lankan spinner Prabath Jayasuriya earned recognition as Test Bowler of the Year, underscoring his growing impact in the longest format of the game
In One-Day Internationals, New Zealand’s pair of Kane Williamson and Matt Henry walked away with the top batting and bowling honors respectively, affirming their consistency on the world stage
The T20 International categories were dominated by Indian talent Varun Chakravarthy took home the T20I Bowler of the Year, while Sanju Samson was named T20I Batsman of the Year following a year of explosive performances
South African Test captain Temba Bavuma received a Leadership Award for guiding the Proteas to their World Test Championship triumph over Australia in June India’s own Rohit Sharma was presented with a special memento in recognition of leading his nation to victory in the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year
Rounding off the night, India’s leading women ’ s players also took center stage Smriti Mandhana was named Women’s International Batter of the Year, while allrounder Deepti Sharma earned the title of Women’s International Bowler of the Year, both celebrated for their consistency and match-winning prowess
Kasey Palmer of Jamaica defends the ball against Roger Colville Lee of Bermuda in their World Cup Qualifying match at Jamaica’s National Stadium on Tuesday. – contributed
