MULTIPLE SCHOOL CLOSURES
Broward County School Board members met Tuesday to discuss the next phase of the district’s Redefining Schools initiative, a sweeping plan that could see several schools across the county closed or repurposed in response to declining enrollment and reduced state funding. So far, 34 schools have been identified for review, with at least six elementary and middle schools potentially slated for closure by the 2026–27 school year.
continues on B3 – School closures
Golding and Holness clash again over Jamaica’s republic path
Jamaica’s Opposition Leader Mark Golding and Prime Minister Andrew Holness are once again at odds over how Jamaica should complete its transition to a republic
The latest clash stems from Holness’ proposal for Golding to meet with Justice Minister Delroy Chuck to restart constitutional reform discussions — a suggestion Golding has flatly rejected, insisting that only direct talks between the two leaders can move the process forward
In his letter dated October 3, 2025, Golding said the reform process must begin with direct engagement between himself and the prime minister if Jamaica is to make meaningful progress in completing what he called “the unfinished circle of Independence ” His response followed a September 30 letter from Holness proposing that Golding meet
with Chuck to resume talks on constitutional reform
Golding said he had expected the prime minister to invite him to a meeting to chart the way forward, based on Holness’s call for partnership at his recent inauguration at King’s House At that ceremony, Holness had reportedly told him, “Mark, let us partner
together to complete the work we started in making Jamaica a republic ”
“The proposal for me to meet with the justice minister will not initiate the required partnership of which we had spoken,” Golding wrote. “It is you and I, as leaders of Jamaica’s two major political parties, who must establish a basis for the required partnership if the
reform process is not to become another exercise in futility ” The Opposition Leader reaffirmed his support for Jamaica to achieve full sovereignty by both removing the British monarch as head of state and ending appeals to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London He noted that this dual goal has long been the position of the People’s National Party (PNP) and argued that both issues must be addressed together for the country to achieve genuine constitutional reform
Golding also cited historical precedents for bipartisan cooperation, noting that significant constitutional advances have always required cross-party consensus He referenced the collaboration between Norman Manley and A
continues on A4 – Jamaica’s Republic Path
Herschel Walker conrmed as rst US Ambassador to the Bahamas in 15 years a3
Trinidad Prison Chief reports over 600 drone drops bringing contraband into jails
JMEA Annual Awar Gala celebrates rum pioneer Dr Joy Spence
Andre Blake’s brilliance carries Union past MLS powerhouses to 2025 Shield title
Holness
Golding
Howard Hepburn Broward County School Superintendent
Members of the Miami Gardens City Council were out on the greens at the Mayor’s Golf Cup held on Oct. 2. From le : Katrina Wilson, Reggie Leon, Mayor Rodney Harris, Michelle C. Powell, Vice Mayor Robert L Stephens III, and Katrina L. Baskin
Miami Gardens Parks & Rec kids took part in the
Official Hospitality Elevated Soccer event this past Saturday at Bayfront Park in South Florida
Jamaican-American Broward County Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis poses with the Florida Panthers Stanley Cup championship ring during a recent Commission mee ng
GraceKennedy and Jamaicas Minister of Sports Olivia Grange celebrated
Lauderhill Mayor Denise Grant, Commissioner John T. Hodgson and Vice Mayor Sarai "Ray" Mar n are pictured at the Breast Cancer Awareness Month Recep on and Pink Ribbon Ligh ng on October 2
Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Antony Anderson (at right) and Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tu on (le ) share lens with RalRosa Founda on board members (from le ) Courtni Foster, Kim Watson, Richard Watson, Dr. Jacqueline Watson, President of the RalRosa Founda on, Nicole Shirley, and Dr. Nicole Kboba, at a recep on hosted in his honour by the Founda on in Georgetown, Washington, D C , on Oct. 1,2025. Photo: Derrick Sco
Young masqueraders smiling as they cross the 2025 Miami Junior Carnival stage
Wassi Babes female masquerader shows off her Queen of the Band costume
NEWSMAKER
Herschel Walker confirmed as first US Ambassador to the Bahamas in nearly 15 years
After nearly 15 years without a U S. ambassador in Nassau, former NFL star and political candidate Herschel Walker has been confirmed by the U S Senate as the next ambassador to the Bahamas
The vote, held Tuesday, came as part of a sweeping confirmation of more than 100 nominees, enabled by recent changes to Senate rules designed to speed up the approval process for President Donald Trump’s picks Walker, 63, fills a post that has been vacant since 2011, one of only five ambassadorial positions worldwide including Bolivia and Cuba left unfilled for over a decade The appointment comes amid heightened U S concern over China’s expanding influence in the region “Having an ambassador in place is more important than ever China is aggressively projecting power and malign influence,” Walker said during his Senate confirmation hearing last month “It built a nearly $3 billion deepwater port and has made other investments in sensitive sectors that could have implications for U S national security ”
A State Department spokesperson said Walker “will be a true champion of the America first foreign policy agenda” and that his appointment would help advance U S interests in the Bahamas, located less than 60 miles from Florida
A native of Augusta, Georgia, Walker’s life story is a journey from sports stardom to public service Raised in Wrightsville, Georgia, as one of seven children, Walker overcame childhood challenges including obesity and a stutter At Johnson County High School, he excelled in football, basketball, and track, rushing for over 3,100 yards in his senior year and helping lead his football team to its first
state championship He also dominated in track and field, winning multiple events at the Georgia High School Association championships
Walker went on to star at the University of Georgia, winning the Heisman Trophy as a junior His professional football career began in the United States Football League with the New Jersey Generals, where he earned MVP honors, before moving to the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys. He later played for the Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Giants, earning Pro Bowl and AllPro honors along the way His contributions to college football were recognized with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999
Beyond the gridiron, Walker represented the U S in bobsleigh at the 1992 Winter Olympics and pursued business ventures in food processing From 2019 to 2020, he served
as co-chair of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition under Trump In 2022, he narrowly lost a U S Senate race in Georgia, falling to Democratic incumbent Raphael Warnock by just 2 8%
Walker’s diplomatic nomination was officially announced by Trump in December 2024 He subsequently disclosed his financial assets, pledging to resign from business leadership roles and divest stock holdings if confirmed His Senate testimony addressed issues such as drug trafficking and the growing Chinese presence in the Caribbean
For Walker, the transition from sports and politics to diplomacy represents another highprofile chapter in a life defined by public achievement His confirmation brings a longvacant post to life at a critical moment for U SBahamas relations, highlighting the strategic importance of the Caribbean amid shifting global dynamics
Trinidad Prison Chief reports over 600 drone drops bringing contraband into jails
Acting Commissioner of Prisons Hayden Forde says more than 600 drone drops have been detected across Trinidad’s prisons between April and October this year, with the majority occurring at the Maximum Security Prison in Arouca
Forde, speaking on a local television programme Monday, said the growing use of drones to smuggle contraband has become a serious challenge for prison authorities, adding that some officers are also complicit in the illegal activity
“The greatest challenge that we face on a daily basis would be drone flights Drone flights take place every single day,” Forde said “So, the criminal realise that that’s a weak spot and they are actually using that to their advantage Despite that we have officers who are intercepting some of those drops, the vast majority, obviously based on the flight patterns we have not been able to intercept ”
He revealed that between April 4 and October 4, 2025, prison officials recorded 626 drone sightings, most of which occurred over the Maximum Security Prison — home to the largest population of remanded inmates
Forde said that while officers have
managed to recover some of the contraband, the prison system lacks the necessary technology and resources to effectively counter the problem He also admitted that several officers have been aiding in the smuggling operations
“We have several rogue officers who are operating in our system Despite efforts to weed them out, they are still in our system,” he said “They are complicit, and I am not going to hide that at all as far as I am concerned they are gang members, they are part of a criminal network ”
The comments follow a recent joint operation in which police and prison officers arrested two people — including a 13-year-old boy — who allegedly attempted to fly a drone loaded with marijuana, cigarettes, wrapping paper, and cellphones into the Maximum Security Prison
Forde said talks are ongoing with Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander on possible countermeasures, including antidrone systems capable of detecting, disabling, or tracking the devices back to their operators
“What is really needed are anti-drone devices that are in a fixed place, but can cover a certain radius and detect it, capture it, defuse it,” he said “It can send it back to the operator where the police can follow the drone and make an arrest if possible ”
The prison chief also expressed alarm over the involvement of minors in smuggling operations “It seems as though they (criminals) are training people to get involved in criminal activities and continue on that line,” Forde said “That is alarming to us as a society, because basically what they’re doing is succession planning ensuring that crime is not abated in this country ”
Jamaica’s Republic
Path fromA1
Independence, as well as that between P J Patterson and Edward Seaga during the constitutional reforms of the 1990s He further pointed to the 2010 passage of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms under a partnership between then Prime Minister Bruce Golding and Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller
“The only route to reaping success in this reform effort is through authentic collaboration, as demonstrated by former political leaders,” Golding said Golding’s letter also highlighted that with the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) no longer holding a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives, bipartisan support is now essential to advance any constitutional amendment
The ongoing impasse stems from deep divisions over the sequencing of reforms During the last parliamentary term, the Opposition withdrew from the Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Reform after the government refused to link the move to republican status with simultaneously replacing the Privy Council with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as Jamaica’s final appellate court
Holness and the JLP maintain that while they support removing the British monarch as head of state, the question of Jamaica’s final court should be decided by the Jamaican people in a referendum The PNP, however, argues that both issues are central to achieving full sovereignty and must be resolved together
That standoff led the PNP to boycott committee meetings earlier this year, effectively halting debate on the Constitution (Amendment) Republic Bill tabled by then Legal and Constitutional Affairs Minister Marlene Malahoo Forte After the September 3 general election, Malahoo Forte was not reappointed to the Cabinet, with aspects of her former portfolio absorbed into Chuck’s Ministry of Justice Golding’s latest letter called on Holness to return to the principle of leadership-level dialogue to avoid another stalemate “I therefore invite you to reconsider the matter in light of what I am suggesting in this letter, and look forward to hearing from you presently,” he wrote, adding that he would make the correspondence public since the prime minister’s invitation to partnership had been delivered in a public forum
Forde
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Jamaicans warned to avoid overseas job scams
Jamaica’s Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon Pearnel Charles Jr , is again warning citizens seeking employment overseas to use only official channels to protect themselves from fraudulent schemes and exploitation
“It is very important, as we have a lot of scamming You have many individuals that try to mimic the Ministry, and some of them even [post] my image and give persons the impression that we are recruiting through TikTok [and] Instagram,” Mr Charles told JIS News
He reaffirmed that there are no registration or placement fees associated w i t h t h e M i n i s t r y ’ s O v e r s e a s Employment Programme “We [continue to remind] persons [that] there is no fee involved at any stage of the recruitment process,” the Minister stressed
Mr Charles explained that while there are licensed private entities authorized by the Ministry to facilitate overseas employment, the governmentrun agricultural programme is managed exclusively by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security
The Overseas Work Programme provides temporary, skilled employment opportunities for Jamaicans under Canada’s Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP) and the United States’ H-2A and H-2B visa schemes,
“Because they want to access the programme so badly, they are easy to be manipulated by persons who can create perceptions that look very close to what the Ministry would be doing,”
– Charles, Jr
which support the agricultural and nonagricultural sectors, respectively
“Once you have someone asking you to make a payment other than the visa fee, which would mean you have gone
through all of the process and just have to pay for your visa, then you know you are dealing with someone who is not authorised by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security,” Mr Charles said
He noted that several Jamaicans have avoided scams by reaching out to the Ministry for verification “Thankfully, many Jamaicans have reached out to me on social media, some get my number and they call and we talk to them Some of them reach out to the Ministry, show us the images before they get involved, and we have been able to really divert them from those potential issues,” he said
Despite these efforts, the Minister said too many individuals still fall victim to exploitation “Because they want to access the programme so badly, they are easy to be manipulated by persons who can create perceptions that look very close to what the Ministry would be doing,” he explained
He reiterated his warning: “Do not fall prey to these scammers If you ever have any issue, reach out to us But be advised, we don’t ask you to make any payment when it comes on to recruitment or placement That’s not the Ministry’s process it will never be ”
Guyana Opposition leader Azruddin Mohamed indicted in US on fraud charges
Just over a month after leading his newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party to become the main opposition in the Guyana National Assembly, billionaire businessman Azruddin Mohamed has been indicted by a United States grand jury on multiple fraud-related charges
According to U S authorities, Mohamed and his father, businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, have been charged with wire and mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering The charges stem from allegations of tax evasion related to gold exports and the importation of a Lamborghini luxury vehicle If convicted of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, both men who were sanctioned by the U S Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in June 2024 could face up to 20 years in prison on each count, three years of supervised release, and fines of up to US$250,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain or loss
On the charges of wire fraud, Azruddin Mohamed could also face a 20-year prison sentence, three years of supervised release, and fines of up to US$250,000 or twice the pecuniary gain or loss For conspiracy to commit money laundering, the grand jury is seeking a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a fine of US$500,000 or the value of the property involved in the transaction
The United States government has also requested that, upon conviction, the defendants forfeit to the U S “ any property, real or personal, which constitutes or is derived from proceeds traceable to such offense ” The property listed for forfeiture includes a shipment containing approximately US$5 3 million in gold bars exported from Guyana by Mohamed’s Enterprise and seized at Miami International Airport on June 11, 2024
According to the unsealed indictment, between 2017 and June 2024, the defendants “did knowingly, and with the intent to further the objects of the conspiracy, combine, conspire, confederate, and agree with each other and others, known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States ”
The indictment alleges that the purpose of the conspiracy was for the defendants to unlawfully enrich themselves and defraud the government of Guyana of taxes and royalties owed on gold exports
The U S accuses the Mohameds of reusing empty boxes with intact Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Guyana Gold Board (GGB) seals for shipments of gold, to make it appear as if Mohamed’s Enterprise had paid the required taxes and royalties when, in fact, it had not
The grand jury further alleges that the Mohameds paid bribes to Guyanese government officials, including customs officers, so they would accept shipments of gold with duplicate paperwork and reused seals The indictment claims the defendants shipped GRA and GGB seals from Miami to Mohamed’s Enterprise in Guyana to facilitate the alleged scheme
“Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed reused empty boxes with intact GRA and GGB seals for shipments of gold to make it appear that Mohamed’s Enterprise had paid Guyana taxes and royalties on shipments of gold when, in truth and in fact, Mohamed’s Enterprise had not paid them on those shipments of gold,” the court document states
The indictment also includes allegations surrounding the purchase and importation of a Lamborghini valued at approximately US$680,000
The U S grand jury alleges that Azruddin Mohamed directed an unnamed individual referred to as “Individual 1” to acquire the car in California for his benefit and arrange its shipment from Miami to Guyana
He allegedly instructed the individual to create a falsified invoice showing the Lamborghini’s value as US$75,300, far below its actual price, and caused the fake document to be presented to the Guyana Revenue Authority This alleged act enabled him to evade more than one million dollars in import taxes owed to the Guyanese government
Mohamed
UN appoints new deputy special representative in Haiti
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Nicole Flora Boni Kouassi of Côte d’Ivoire as the new Deputy Special Representative for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) She will also serve as Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in the country
Ms Boni Kouassi succeeds Ingeborg Ulrika Ulfsdotter Richardson of Sweden, whom the Secretary-General thanked for her “dedicated service and steadfast commitment” to the UN
Bringing more than 22 years of United Nations experience, Ms Boni Kouassi has built her career across development, peace and security, and humanitarian work Since 2022, she has served as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Niger, where she also took on the role of Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator ad interim between 2023 and 2024 She previously led UNDP’s office in Burundi from 2019 to 2022 and held interim leadership as Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in 2021
Her earlier career includes leadership roles as UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Djibouti and Niger, as well as Senior UN Coherence Specialist in New York
Ms Boni Kouassi holds a Doctorate in Medicine from Université Félix HouphouëtBoigny in Abidjan and a Master of Public Health from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in the United States She is fluent in both English and French, in addition to her native Baule
MSF reports sharp rise in civilian casualties in Haiti
As Haiti’s capital descends further into chaos marked by violent clashes between armed groups and police forces, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) says the number of civilian casualties arriving at its facilities is surging
Nearly two in five Haitians are in urgent need of medical care due to widespread insecurity and violence, yet 60 to 80 percent of Port-au-Prince’s health facilities remain closed or non-functional for the same reasons
Between January and June 2025, MSF teams assisted 2,600 victims and survivors of sexual violence, admitted 13,300 patients to emergency rooms, and treated 2,267 victims of violence Among these, 26 percent were minors more than double the rate recorded in 2024 Most were under 15 years old, and one-third were girls Thirty percent of all minors treated for violence-related injuries suffered gunshot wounds
“These figures reflect the alarming deterioration of the situation in Haiti, where civilians, including women and children, are increasingly exposed to danger every day,” said Mumuza Muhindo Musubaho, MSF’s head of mission in Haiti “Civilians must be spared by the parties to this conflict ”
The worsening violence was underscored on September 20, when MSF treated 17 wounded people following a drone attack in the Cité Soleil neighborhood Among the casualties were two men who were dead on arrival and another who died during transfer Ten women were also wounded one of whom died en route to MSF’s trauma hospital in Tabarre and three children who did not survive their injuries Two additional women later died at the Isaïe Jeanty maternity hospital, where MSF is also active
The violence stems from an ongoing territorial conflict, with entire communities trapped between explosive drone attacks and the brutal tactics of armed groups, who loot, burn homes, destroy neighborhoods, and increasingly use sexual violence as a weapon of control, punishment, and extortion
MSF reports that about 18 percent of patients in its general healthcare programs in areas controlled by armed groups say they avoid using public transportation to seek care outside those neighborhoods for fear of being targeted
The combination of restricted movement, armed attacks, looting, and a shortage of medical staff and supplies has crippled the healthcare system. Since 2024, hospital closures have left most residents without access to vital services MSF’s trauma hospital in Tabarre has increased its bed capacity by 50 percent to meet rising demand, with 26 percent of its
universitaire de la Paix remains operational in the capital, but it is often overwhelmed
“This devastating context fuels a profound sense of abandonment among Haitians,” said Musubaho “And, it must be said, the severe decline in healthcare availability – a crisis within the crisis – also leaves the few remaining humanitarian and medical actors with the impression of being overwhelmed by ever-growing needs ”
MSF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Haitian people and said it continues to work closely with the Ministry of Public Health and Population The organization reiterated its call for the protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and medical facilities amid the ongoing violence
Should there really be concern about Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
In recent years, there has been growing concern that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is taking over the functioning of human intelligence Is this concern valid, or is there a misunderstanding of the impact of AI?
AI is the simulation of human intelligence by machines, mainly computer systems designed to think, learn, and make decisions like humans AI allows computers to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence
Contrary to what some people believe, AI isn’t a new development It dates back to the 1950s and has undergone rapid transformation The technology now works at a far faster pace than human output and has the ability to generate a wide range of creative responses, such as text, images, and videos
Today, AI is designed for specific tasks in the form of voice assistants like Siri, ChatGPT, or Google Translate But other forms of AI are being developed, such as General AI, which will be able to understand and perform any intellectual task humans can do, and Superintelligent AI, which is expected to surpass human intelligence in all areas
AI has definite transformative power and can improve human life dramatically, but it must be carefully managed and monitored. If left unchecked, it can widen inequalities, threaten privacy, and reduce human control
AI has been seen to have many positive attributes, but also negatives
AI can process and analyze huge amounts of data far faster than humans In medicine, manufacturing, and engineering, AI can reliably reduce errors and increase quality
Unlike humans, AI systems don’t need rest and are therefore available at all times They also free humans from boring, dangerous, or monotonous jobs AI is very useful in accurate decision-making, as it can analyze complex data patterns and assist in making smarter, evidence-based decisions
In the medical field, AI is very useful in analyzing X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to detect cancers or heart problems earlier than doctors sometimes can AI facilitates the speedy development of new medicines, as was evident during research for the COVID-19 vaccine It is also used to analyze patient data for customized therapies And platforms like chatbots can answer medical questions or monitor patients remotely
On the negative side, AI can create bias in diagnosis For example, if training data mostly includes one demographic, like Caucasians, AI might misdiagnose patients from other demographics
Sensitive medical data can also be misused or leaked Moreover, AI cannot comfort or emotionally support patients the way human medical personnel do
AI also helps people with disabilities, including voice recognition for the visually impaired or speech synthesis for those unable to speak
One of the more concerning aspects of AI is in education There is a common belief that it compromises the ability of students to use rationalization and analytical skills in problem-
solving and composing academic papers
Positively, AI tutors can adjust lessons to match each student’s pace and understanding Tools like Duolingo or Google Translate help bridge language barriers, and AI automates grading, attendance, and record-keeping so teachers can focus on teaching
On the other hand, students can misuse AI (like ChatGPT) to complete assignments dishonestly Poorer schools without access to AI tools fall further behind, and overreliance on AI tutors can limit personal interaction and critical thinking
In the job market, AI increases productivity as it automates routine work, saving companies time and money, and creates jobs in areas like data science, AI ethics, and robotics Businesses also use AI analytics to predict trends and reduce risks
But, very concerningly, AI has the potential for job displacement Routine and manual jobs like cashiers, drivers, and factory workers are being replaced by machines While high-tech workers stand to benefit, low-skill workers may be left behind AI can also be used to track workers’ every move, reducing privacy and trust
Another major area of concern is AI use in the media, with some believing it generates fake news AI does help in writing articles, designing graphics, and even composing music Search engines and chatbots make knowledge widely available, and, ironically, AI can help to counter fake news by flagging disinformation online
But it’s true that AI can create realistic fake videos that spread lies or harm the reputations of people and organizations It can also foster algorithms that push false or biased content
AI is very useful in matters of national security and crime-fighting It can counter cyberattacks by detecting hacking attempts faster than humans AI can analyze crime patterns to prevent criminal incidents or intervene during criminal activity
The technology is also a very effective tool following natural disasters, as it can analyze satellite data to locate survivors in collapsed buildings or other difficult situations
But in the areas of national security and policing, there are also potential negatives Governments or companies can misuse facial recognition or tracking data generated by AI
AI has definite transformative power and can improve human life dramatically, but it must be carefully managed and monitored If left unchecked, it can widen inequalities,
threaten privacy, and reduce human control
There must be clear laws and human oversight within governments globally to control potential dangers from AI
The ballroom of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel sparkled on Saturday night as Jamaica’s top manufacturers, exporters, and industry innovators gathered for the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) Annual Awards Gala
The evening celebrated trailblazers across industries, with special recognition for Dr Joy Spence, Master Blender at Appleton Estate, and Nayana Williams, founder and CEO of Lifespan Spring Water, highlighting their outstanding contributions to Jamaica’s manufacturing and exporting sectors
Held in partnership with Victoria Mutual and themed “Gems of the M E T – Bold Risk, Bright Innovations, Brilliant Growth,” the gala brought together an eclectic mix of dignitaries, business leaders, and innovators, all united by a shared commitment to advancing Jamaica’s industrial and economic growth From longestablished manufacturing powerhouses to cutting-edge technology startups, the event showcased the ingenuity, creativity, and resilience driving the country’s economy
Among the evening’s most prestigious accolades was the JMEA Icon Award, presented to Dr Joy Spence in recognition of her groundbreaking achievements in the rum industry Born in 1951 in Manchester and raised in Kingston, Dr Spence discovered her passion for chemistry at the age of 13 She earned First Class Honors in chemistry at the University of the West Indies and a master’s degree in analytical chemistry from Loughborough University in England She began her career as a research and development chemist at Tia Maria before joining J Wray and Nephew Ltd , the parent company of
WOMEN IN FOCUS
Over her career, Spence has crafted bespoke blends for world leaders, including Ronald Reagan, Prince William, and Prince Harry, while serving as a brand ambassador for Appleton Estate and travelling extensively to promote Jamaican rum
Appleton Estate In 1981, she became chief chemist at Appleton Estate and worked closely with master blender Owen Tulloch to develop her exceptional “organoleptic talent” the ability to distinguish and blend aromas at a professional level
After 17 years of mentorship, Spence was promoted to master blender upon Tulloch’s retirement Her first creation in this role, a special rum blend for Appleton Estate’s 250th anniversary, earned international acclaim, cementing her reputation as a global innovator in the spirits industry Over her career, she has crafted bespoke blends for world leaders, including Ronald Reagan, Prince William, and Prince Harry, while serving as a brand ambassador for Appleton Estate and travelling extensively to promote Jamaican rum Dr Spence also manages technical and quality services at the distillery, ensuring every bottle meets the highest standards Beyond craft and commerce, she played a pivotal role in securing geographical indication for Jamaican rum in 2016, safeguarding the industry’s heritage and international recognition Her accolades include the Commander of the Order of Distinction (2017), the Musgrave Gold Medal (2022), and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (2022). Appleton Estate has honored her legacy through tours named The Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience and special rum blends celebrating her 20th and 40th anniversaries as master blender
The gala also celebrated Nayana Williams, who received the Scotiabank Woman in Manufacturing and Exporting Award for her outstanding leadership in the manufacturing sector Williams is the founder and CEO of Lifespan Spring Water, a 20-year-old bottled water company based in Portland, Jamaica Her recognition as a leading female awardee highlights her role as a trailblazer, setting high
JMEA President Kathryn Silvera (right) presents the JMEA Icon Award to Dr Joy Spence at the 2025 M&E Awards
Spence receiving the VM Group JMEA Legacy Award
standards for innovation, leadership, and sustainable business practices in the manufacturing industry. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of my team, and to all women who continue to break barriers and drive progress in Jamaica’s manufacturing industry,” Williams said. Her leadership has fostered growth, created opportunities for empowerment within the community, and inspired the next generation of female entrepreneurs and industry leaders
Throughout the evening, the JMEA Annual Awards Gala emphasized its theme of bold risk-taking, bright innovation, and brilliant growth The event honored achievements across Jamaica’s manufacturing, exporting, and technology sectors, highlighting the talent, creativity, and resilience that fuel the nation’s economic progress By celebrating leaders like Dr Joy Spence and Nayana Williams, the gala not only recognized individual excellence but also underscored the critical role women play in shaping the future of Jamaica’s industrial landscape
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of my team, and to all women who continue to break barriers and drive progress in Jamaica’s manufacturing industry.
– Williams
With events like the JMEA Awards, Jamaica continues to spotlight the innovators, entrepreneurs, and trailblazers whose vision, dedication, and achievements inspire both current and future generations of industry leaders
WOMEN IN FOCUS
Kamla PersadBissessar wins People’s Choice Leader Award at Caribbean Global Awards
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar received the People’s Choice Leader Award at the 2025 Caribbean Global Awards, held at the Cumberland Hotel in London on September 27
The award, determined by public vote, saw Persad-Bissessar top a list that included Barbados’ Mia Mottley, St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Ralph Gonsalves, Jamaica’s Andrew Holness, and Guyana’s Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali Ralph Gonsalves placed second, Mottley third, and Holness and Ali finished fourth and fifth, respectively
Addressing the ceremony via video from New York, Persad-Bissessar said, “It is indeed a profound honour to accept the Caribbean Global People’s Choice Leader Award 2025 I do regret not being with you in person. However, my duties at the United Nations General Assembly have called me to New York where I carry the voice of Trinidad and Tobago and of our small island nations, speaking for resilience, fairness and the dignity and future of all people, especially our children ”
She stressed that the award reflects collective achievement “Yet even as I stand on that world stage, my heart is here with you because this award belongs not to me alone but to all of us who believe that unity is our greatest strength ” Persad-Bissessar reflected on her upbringing and journey into leadership, saying, “I was born in colonial Trinidad into a poor family in the rural village of Siparia My late mother Rita sold roti to support our family whilst my father Lalraj worked as a bookkeeper From those humble beginnings to becoming the first woman Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, I learned that leadership is not a privilege but a duty to serve ”
Highlighting her achievements in public service, she said, “Throughout four decades of public service, I have sought to turn compassion and equality into action As Prime Minister from 2010-2015, my Government created the Children’s Life Fund, we advanced universal secondary education, we formed the SEA and we provided laptops for every student, and we also expanded higher learning ” On her current term, she added, “I continue that mission, revitalising the economy, modernising energy, advancing digital transformation, and ensuring governance that is transparent, inclusive and centred on people’s lives ” Persad-Bissessar also emphasised the broader purpose of recognition, saying, “Tonight’s celebration is more than an award; it is a reminder that recognition must serve a purpose Even when progress feels like two steps forward and one back, we must keep faith, choosing evidence over noise, dignity over cynicism, inclusion over indifference and truth over silence ”
She made a heartfelt call to action for communities and leaders, urging them to “lift up one vulnerable child, show them that they can lead Open the doors of your classrooms, your workplaces, your creative spaces and let them see what is possible Share with them the struggles of past generations so they know resilience is our inheritance ”
Persad-Bissessar concluded: “Our ancestors forged democracies from broken colonial fragments, from stolen lives, from stolen dignity and from stolen heritage, and yet still they endured so that we could rise In lifting the most vulnerable, we transform talent into leadership, hope into history and ensure the promise of our countries and the survival of our generations to come ” She also congratulated her fellow honorees, noting that their achievements “proved that when courage meets collaboration, together we shine brighter ”
CEO and founder of Lifespan Spring Water, Nayana Williams poses with her award at the JMEA Annual Awards
Miami-based Paquee Golf Club
donates J$10.5M
to Mustard Seed Communities
ByCurtisMyrie
Exceeding expectations, the Miami-based Paquee Golf Club, from its recent inaugural charity tournament, has raised J$10 5 million for Mustard Seed Communities in Jamaica, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the care of the disabled and abandoned children and adults unable to care for themselves
The J$10 5 million donation will sustain Mustard Seed Communities’ mission of providing lifelong care, quality education, and therapeutic services to residents of the organization, many of whom have severe disabilities
Mustard Seed Communities provides residential care to over 700 persons in Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, and the contribution demonstrates critical commitment from the Miami community To be ratified, it is, however, likely that the tournament will be an annual calendar event by the Paquee Golf Club to continue its support for both local and international causes that align with its values of community and compassion
“We are absolutely thrilled by the generosity of our members, sponsors, and participants,” said Clinton McCaw, fundraising chairman of the club “Knowing that every dollar goes directly to providing essential loving care for some of the world’s most vulnerable people at the Mustard Seed homes in Jamaica makes this success incredibly meaningful
The Paquee Golf Club, established in 1988 in Miami, Florida, and now embarking on supporting particular social endeavours, will next engage the Jamaica Buccaneers Golf Club – competition activity for the past 30 years to enhance and maintain long-term friendships within the diaspora
Ambassador Anderson rallies diaspora to lead Jamaica’s $1.8B medical tourism push
Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, has unveiled a bold plan to harness the expertise and capital of Jamaica’s diaspora doctors to build a worldclass medical tourism industry that could generate more than US$1 8 billion annually
Not a career diplomat versed in cocktail-circuit pleasantries, nor a healthcare bureaucrat fluent in policy jargon, Anderson—the man who once commanded Jamaica’s military, overhauled its police force, and advised the Prime Minister on national security now faces perhaps his most audacious mission yet: convincing diaspora doctors that their exodus from Jamaica wasn’t abandonment, but preparation
Standing before a room packed with Jamaican professionals educators, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and other diaspora leaders Anderson delivered an unconventional diplomatic pitch Speaking at a reception hosted in his honour by the RalRosa Foundation in Georgetown, Washington, D C , on October 1, the Ambassador challenged Jamaican medical professionals in the United States to view their migration as preparation for a new phase of national service through investment and collaboration
“If I was going to get sick, here’s the place to do it,” Anderson joked to the audience before shifting to a more serious tone “Imagine if those same skills and expertise could generate billions while fixing the very healthcare system you left behind ”
The Ambassador’s call draws on lessons from Turkey and Thailand two countries that successfully turned their health sectors into global medical tourism destinations
Turkey alone earns more than US$1 8 billion each year from patients, many from the United States, seeking affordable, highquality care abroad
“Those countries didn’t just build facilities for foreigners,” Anderson noted “Their investments lifted the quality of care for everyone Jamaica can do the same ”
He added that Jamaica’s proximity to the U S , its English-speaking workforce, and its deep pool of diaspora physicians provide a natural competitive advantage
Anderson’s proposal reimagines the role of diaspora healthcare professionals
Instead of competing with U S hospital salaries, Jamaica would offer equity partnerships in medical tourism facilities, allowing rotational practice and knowledge
transfer without requiring full relocation
He said he intends to begin discussions with Health and Wellness Minister Dr The Honourable Christopher Tufton to establish the necessary regulatory framework, including international accreditation, malpractice protections, and investment incentives
“When supply meets demand, it’s no longer a problem it’s an industry,” Anderson told the audience. “We can transform our brain drain into a business model that strengthens the healthcare system at home ”
SHIPPING IS OUR BUSINESS
Tamarri Lindo and his family w
Major General Antony Anderson addressing the audience at a reception hosted by the RalRosa Foundation held in Washington D C. on October 1, 2025
Miami-Dade launches program to help residents reinstate suspended driver’s licenses
Miami-Dade County kicked off
Operation Green Light on Monday, a county initiative designed to help residents reinstate suspended driver’s licenses and resolve outstanding court obligations
The program, spearheaded by MiamiDade County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Juan Fernández-Barquín, aims to reduce the number of license suspensions by facilitating payments for eligible residents According to FernándezBarquín’s office, the twice-yearly initiative allows participants to save an average of 30% on eligible cases, restoring access to essential services that require a valid driver’s license
Driver’s licenses in Miami-Dade are typically suspended for unpaid traffic tickets, failure to appear in court, point suspensions, and other related infractions
Operation Green Light, which previously ran in April, gives residents the opportunity to pay fines and overdue amounts online, by phone, or in person The operation will continue until October 19
Eligible payments include traffic citations, parking violations, and criminal cases, with additional fees for accounts transferred to collections waived during the initiative
In-person payment locations with extended hours include:
• Coral Gables District Court, 3100 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134
• Hialeah District Court, 11 E 6th Street, Hialeah, FL 33010
• Richard E Gerstein Justice Center, 1351 NW 12th St, Miami, FL 33125
• Joseph Caleb Center Court, 5400 NW 22nd Ave, Miami, FL 33142 (Thu: 9 a m –8 p m ; Sat: 9 a m –1 p m )
North Dade Justice Center, 15555 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami Beach, FL 33160 (Thu: 9 a m –8 p m ; Sat: 9 a m –1 p m )
• South Dade Justice Center, 10710 SW 211th St, Suite 1200, Miami, FL 33189 (Thu: 9 a m –8 p m ; Sat: 9 a m –1 p m )
Residents seeking more information can visit the Operation Green Light website
School closures fromA1
“We can no longer afford to fund empty, or have empty schools,” Hepburn said “We must fund students and the quality of their educational experiences Every dollar should strengthen instruction, expand programs, and enhance the learning environments where our students thrive ”
Under the current proposal, the schools most likely to close include Bair Middle in Sunrise, North Fork Elementary in Fort Lauderdale, and Plantation Middle, which would merge with Plantation High to form a 6–12 public safety magnet school In Miramar, either Fairway Elementary or Sunshine Elementary could be consolidated, while Glades Middle may be repurposed as a branch campus of Sheridan Technical College The board is also weighing whether to close either Palm Cove Elementary or Pines Lakes Elementary in Pembroke Pines
Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn told board members that the district has lost nearly 10,000 students since last year, resulting in a $90 million drop in funding.
Most members supported the plan to close six of seven recommended schools The only major proposal that did not advance was to shut down Forest Glen Middle in Coral Springs Board member Lori Alhadeff, who represents the district, objected, noting that 19 other middle schools are more under-enrolled “I think that it’s ridiculous that we would even be thinking about potentially closing Forest Glen Middle School when compared to the other middle schools within the district,” she said
Parents and teachers voiced strong opposition during the meeting, especially over plans to close Glades Middle School “This is a school, not to close or repurpose, but to invest in,” said teacher Christine McMahon Nebe Parent Cindy Kim, whose child attends Glades Middle, said the proposal “devastated” her family “Glades is a longstanding school,” she added
Critics argue that the closures could push families toward charter schools and deepen enrollment losses “Forcing those students back or dispersing our students amongst elementary schools will not strengthen Broward schools,” Nebe warned
District leaders estimate that closing one elementary school could save $1 8 million, while shutting down a middle school could save $2 7 million and a high school $4 3 million
The board also expressed willingness to sell or lease the K C Wright administrative headquarters in downtown Fort Lauderdale and relocate operations to unused school buildings Additionally, proposals are being considered to redesign Hallandale Beach High to mirror Pompano Beach High’s four-day academic model and to use portions of certain campuses for community purposes in Dania Beach, Hollywood, Pembroke Park, and Sunrise Broward County, home to thousands of Caribbean families, could see significant community impacts if the closures are approved Three regional town halls are scheduled before final recommendations are made: Oct 27 at Coral Springs High (north), Nov 6 at Dillard High (central), and Nov 13 at Miramar High (south)
“We don’t take closing schools or talking about consolidation lightly,” Hepburn said “We want to ensure that no matter what school our students attend in the future, it’s going to provide the best opportunity for them to learn and exceed their potential ”
Caribbean City Culture Clash set to turn up the heat
Get ready to wave your flags high and rep your island loud! The ultimate Caribbean celebration returns to South Florida with Caribbean City Culture Clash: Bring Ya Flag, Rep Ya Country, happening Saturday, October 11th at 100 SW 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, right in the heart of the Miami Carnival Weekend festivities
From 9 PM to 4 AM, this electrifying event promises to be more than just a party; it’s a full-blown cultural showdown where pride, music, and vibes collide Whether you ’ re repping Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Haiti, Barbados, Guyana, Saint Lucia, or anywhere across the diaspora, this is your night to shine
Curated for the love of soca, dancehall, and afrobeats, Caribbean City Culture Clash has earned its crown as South Florida’s #1 Caribbean Monthly Party With each edition bringing together diverse island vibes under one roof, it’s no surprise this event has become a staple on the Entertainment calendar
This month’s lineup is nothing short of epic, featuring a heavy-hitting roster of DJs set to control the vibes all night long:
• DJ Paddy International (NYC): Known for his seamless transitions and high-energy sets that keep the crowd jumping
• DJ Active (NYC): Bringing the heat from the Big Apple with dancehall and afrobeats fyah
• DJ Fergie: A local Florida favorite whose name is synonymous with Caribbean party anthems Ironheart Sound: Masters of the mash-up, delivering that authentic island sound
• SJ Swoll Joel: The life of the party, guaranteed to keep you dancing until sunrise
This isn’t just a party, it’s a Caribbean experience Expect non-stop flag-waving, waistline-moving, and culture-sharing with
people who love the vibes just as much as you do The dress code? Come island-fresh, and don’t forget your flag
The event takes place at 100 SW 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL, on Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Starting at 9:00 PM and running until 4:00 AM Must be 21 and older to party
Whether you ’ re a Carnival veteran or just looking to soak up the island energy, Caribbean City Culture Clash is the place to be this Miami Carnival Weekend
Miami Carnival connects art, culture and community
Every fall, Miami opens its doors to the world of art, creativity, and culture From museum walls to outdoor murals, performance stages to city streets, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Fall for the Arts season (October–December) celebrates the many ways art takes shape in the Magic City
And nowhere is that creativity more alive than at Miami Carnival
On Sunday, October 12, the Parade of Bands and Concert will transform the MiamiDade County Fairgrounds into a moving masterpiece of color, rhythm, and storytelling Masqueraders in handcrafted costumes bring their band themes to life with precision, artistry, and pride Behind them, trucks echo with the pulse of soca and steelpan, reminding everyone that Caribbean culture has always been both performance and poetry It is a vibrant reminder of the Caribbean’s enduring influence on Miami’s cultural heartbeat
Beyond the road, the artistry continues More than 50 food vendors serve up flavors from the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, and the Dominican Republic Local artisans and small businesses fill the Arts & Crafts Village, while families gather in cultural spaces that connect generations through creativity, music, and movement
For visitors taking part in Fall for the Arts, Carnival Sunday offers a different kind of gallery one without walls, where every dancer, designer, and drumbeat tells a story of migration, memory, and belonging It is where the Caribbean diaspora paints Miami in its truest colors
As Fall for the Arts spotlights performance, design, and visual storytelling across Greater Miami and Miami Beach, Miami Carnival stands as the living art form that connects them all It is a reminder that culture doesn’t just hang in galleries or play on stages It moves through people
Experiences Bringing People Together Through Sweet
DJ Paddy Int’l DJ Active DJ Fergie Ironheart Sound SJ Swoll Joel
Blake’s brilliance carries Union to 2025 MLS Shield title
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz goalkeeper and captain Andre Blake has once again etched his name into Major League Soccer history, guiding the Philadelphia Union to the 2025 Supporters’ Shield — awarded to the team with the league’s best record after the regular season
For Blake, it is yet another crowning moment in an already glittering career, and a testament to his enduring excellence between the posts
In a year defined by unprecedented spending and global star power — led by Lionel Messi’s high-profile Inter Miami — the Union’s triumph stands as a triumph of unity, discipline, and leadership With Blake as their heartbeat and longest-serving player, Philadelphia outclassed their more lavishly assembled rivals through sheer resilience and consistency
Blake produced another masterful display in the decisive fixture, keeping a third consecutive clean sheet to seal the Shield His performances throughout the campaign anchored one of the stingiest defenses in MLS, earning the Union their second Supporters’ Shield, following their first in 2020 — also with Blake at the helm
This latest success reinforces his status as one of the greatest goalkeepers in MLS history, if not the definitive best
Speaking moments after the title-clinching match, a beaming Blake reflected on the magnitude of the achievement and the values that continue to drive him
“It’s just hard work paying off; there’s no better feeling,” he said “I always say I prefer team trophies, team accolades over individual accolades And just being able to celebrate this moment with the team — words can’t describe how I feel right now ”
It was vintage Blake — grounded, humble, and team-first — embodying the leadership that has defined his decade-long spell in Philadelphia
The 2025 season has been one of both professional triumph and personal happiness for the Jamaican star Earlier this year, he claimed MLS Save of the Month honors for April, adding another accolade to his decorated résumé Off the pitch, he celebrated the birth of his daughter, a milestone that has added extra joy to what he calls “ a
blessed chapter” in his life
“Things are going my way right now, and I’m just grateful,” Blake said “I’m living in the moment, and when it’s your time, it’s your time ” As Philadelphia celebrates, Blake’s focus quickly turns to international duty After missing the previous window due to injury, the Jamaican captain is set to rejoin the Reggae Boyz for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers
His return offers a timely boost for Jamaica, who will lean on his composure, leadership, and world-class shot-stopping as they continue their push toward World Cup qualification
With another major honor secured, Blake’s legend only grows — a symbol of excellence for both club and country
Sara Misir’s masterclass in Lagos propels Blue Rising toward E1 title showdown
Jamaican motorsport sensation Sara Misir continued her spectacular debut season in the E1 Series with another commanding performance, steering Team Blue Rising to a second-place finish at the Lagos Grand Prix — the first-ever E1 event held on African waters
Her result helped propel the team into third place in the overall standings, setting the stage for a dramatic season finale at the Grand Final in Biscayne Bay, Miami, scheduled for November 7–8
Coming off the momentum of their Monaco Grand Prix victory in July, Misir and teammate John Peeters arrived in Lagos determined to keep their title hopes alive The pair delivered a near-flawless weekend of racing that kept spectators on their feet from start to finish
Misir opened the event with a breathtaking charge, slicing her way from P7 to P2 by the chequered flag in her opening race Her stellar drive secured Peeters a front-row start for the second heat — an opportunity he fully capitalized on, converting it into a dominant win that solidified Team Blue Rising’s shot at the podium
When the final got underway, Misir once again demonstrated the poise and precision that have defined her rookie season Starting third on the grid, she maintained ra elentless pace and composure to clinch second overall, trailing only Team Brazil by Claure Group, with Team Drogba rounding out the top three
The Lagos result marked Team Blue Rising’s third consecutive podium finish — following their triumph in Monaco and a third-place result in Italy on June 28 Earlier in the season, they also claimed third in the opener in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Out of six Grand Prix weekends so far, Misir and Peeters have now secured four podiums — a feat that underscores both their rising form and competitive resilience on the international stage
With Lagos behind them, Misir and Peeters have firmly established Team Blue Rising as contenders heading into Miami, where the championship title will be decided
“It was a really intense race weekend, and I’m proud of how we fought through the field,” Misir reflected “The team strategy paid off and we ’ re in a strong position heading into Miami We can’t wait to give it my all at the Grand Final ”
Misir
Andre Blake with his Philadelphia Union teammates as they lift the 2025 Supporter’s Sheild trophy
