RABiES ALERT
Issued in Davie area of Broward County
The Florida Department of Health in Broward County (DOH-Broward) has issued a 60-day rabies alert after a raccoon in the Davie area off I595 tested positive for rabies on September 16 Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution, as rabies remains present in the local wild animal population.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear Rabies can be transmitted to humans and domestic animals through bites or scratches from infected wildlife
Early symptoms in humans include fever, headache, and general continues on B2 – Rabies
BSO fires 6 more deputies over mishandled Tamarac triple murder response
Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony on Friday announced that six deputies have been fired and 13 others disciplined after an internal investigation found deputies failed to act during a February triple homicide, despite having “every opportunity” to save lives.
Guyana mourns ve diplomat Elisabeth Ann Harper who died at 67
The disciplinary actions stem from the Feb 16 shooting in Tamarac, when 43-yearold Nathan Gingles fatally shot his estranged wife, 34-year-old Mary Gingles, her father, 64year-old David Ponzer, and neighbor Andrew Ferrin, 36 Court records show Mary had a restraining order against Gingles and had repeatedly reported threats to deputies in the weeks leading up to the killings
The six terminated deputies were identified as Sgt Travis Allen, Sgt Devoune continues on B4 – Deputies red
Kranium calls out ‘biggest violation eve after Caribbean Musi Awards blunder
Jamaica’s Consul
CACG Secretary Ms. Faye Linton and member Ms Yvonne Robinson pose for a photo at the CACG s 41st Anniversary Gala
CACG's 2025 Ball Honoree, Port St. Lucie Councilman Mr. David Picke and his wife embrace in a photo
CACG
NEWSMAKER
ELiSABETH HARPER
Guyana mourns veteran diplomat ambassador who dies at 67
Career diplomat Ambassador
Elisabeth Anne Harper has died at the age of 67, following a period of illness. She passed away on Saturday
Harper, who last served as Guyana’s Ambassador to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, also held the position of Director General in the ministry
President Dr Irfaan Ali, in a statement Saturday evening, described her as one of Guyana’s most outstanding citizens and foremost diplomats
“Her distinguished career in the Foreign Service was marked by excellence, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the advancement of our nation’s interests Guyana has truly lost an outstanding citizen, and our Foreign Service has lost one of its finest ever,” he said
He noted that Harper was an extremely knowledgeable diplomat whose insights enriched every sphere of her work “Ambassador Harper will be remembered not only for her professional brilliance but also for her engaging personality and the warmth with which she approached all those around her,” Ali added
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), also paid tribute, recalling his close working relationship with Harper during his presidency “I had the privilege of working closely with her during my presidency and witnessed first-hand her professionalism, wisdom, and commitment to advancing Guyana’s national interests,” Jagdeo said Harper was the PPP/C’s prime ministerial candidate in the 2015 General and Regional Elections, running alongside then-president
Donald Ramotar
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in its announcement of her death, said Harper joined the ministry in 1976 and “dedicated her life to the Foreign Service, during which she served with distinction in every position ” Tributes also came from across Guyana’s political spectrum and beyond Opposition parliamentarian Ganesh Mahipaul described her as “ one of the most professional and outstanding career diplomats ” The Alliance For Change (AFC) hailed her as a “trailblazer” who played a pivotal role in safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty and representing the country in regional and international fora The Forward Guyana Movement said she exemplified “integrity, professionalism, and love for country ” International recognition of Harper’s service also poured in The British High
Her distinguished career in the Foreign Service was marked by excellence, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the advancement of our nation’s interests… Guyana has truly lost an outstanding citizen, and our Foreign Service has lost one of its finest ever” – Ali
Commission in Georgetown noted that her “dedicated service to Guyana leaves a lasting legacy ” Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley also expressed condolences:
“Guyana has lost a true daughter of the soil and the region has lost one of the best examples of a true public servant I am sadden to learn of the passing of Elisabeth Harper, the Guyanese Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs whose public service career spanned over 4 decades Lis was the consummate professional and diplomat; someone who understood that effective diplomacy combines both competence and genuine human connection My relationship with her started at the turn of the twenty-first century while I was Minister of Education, Youth and Culture and often attended COHSOD meetings in Guyana She
was always pleasant and jovial and greeted everyone with a warm smile Lis’ advocacy for Caribbean integration was a vision that extended beyond national boundaries to regional cooperation and solidarity Her loss will be felt not only in Guyana but across the entire Caribbean Community May her family, President Ali, and the people of Guyana and CARICOM find comfort in knowing how deeply respected and appreciated she was by her colleagues across the region ”
Born on October 2, 1957, in Kitty, Georgetown, Harper was a devout Christian, married to Mark Harper, and the mother of five children
She began her Foreign Service career in 1976 as a clerk in the registry and rose through the ranks, serving in multiple divisions before becoming Director General in 2001 She also served as Counsellor at the Guyana High Commission in London, Director of the Department of the Americas and Asia, and later as non-resident High Commissioner to several Caribbean nations
Her distinguished service included participation in CARICOM, the Amazonian Cooperation Treaty Organisation, the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and other regional bodies She was part of Guyana’s delegation for the Guyana-Suriname Maritime Arbitration and contributed to numerous negotiations on behalf of the country
In 2011, she received one of Guyana’s highest honors, the Golden Arrow of Achievement, for her long and distinguished service From 2016 to 2020, she served as a consultant on border matters and acted as coagent for Guyana in the ongoing case at the International Court of Justice regarding the border with Venezuela
Harper’s career, which spanned more than four decades, left a mark on both Guyana and the wider Caribbean
Harper
PM Holness names new Cabinet,
Senate: Familiar faces return, Keith Duncan appointed
Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness has unveiled his new Cabinet, bringing back familiar names while making notable additions to the Senate
The Cabinet sees the return of Andrew Wheatley and Robert Montague, both reinstated as Ministers without Portfolio Wheatley will focus on science, technology and special projects from the Office of the Prime Minister, while Montague takes charge of land titling and settlements in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development Robert Morgan also joins that ministry with responsibility for works Holness himself retains the portfolios of Prime Minister, Defence, and Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, while key ministers such as Dr Horace Chang (Deputy Prime Minister and National Security), Dr. Christopher Tufton (Health and Wellness), Fayval Williams (Finance and the Public Service), Edmund Bartlett (Tourism), and Olivia “Babsy” Grange (Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport) continue in their roles
The Senate list also carries significance, with businessman Keith Duncan among the new appointees Duncan, who serves as Group CEO of JMMB and chairman of Jamaica’s Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC), is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading voices on economic reform and fiscal responsibility His appointment is especially notable as he replaces the late Don Wehby, another respected businessman who straddled both the private sector and politics Wehby’s passing earlier this year left a gap in the Senate that Duncan is now positioned to fill, bringing continuity to the tradition of business leaders contributing to national policy
Also reappointed is veteran senator and former Senate President Tom Tavares-Finson, alongside other familiar names such as Kamina Johnson Smith, Aubyn Hill, Dana Morris Dixon, Sherene Golding Campbell, Abka Fitz-Henley, Charles Sinclair, Kavan Gayle, Marlon Morgan, and Dr Elon Thompson Christian TavaresFinson and Rose Marie Bennett-Cooper are the other new additions to round out the 13-member slate
Holness, in a statement, underscored that the appointments are aligned with his administration’s historic 2025 mandate to transform Jamaica into a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous nation
T&T Chief Justice announces retirement after 18 years
Chief Justice Ivor Archie has announced his intention to retire, ending an almost 18-year tenure as Trinidad and Tobago’s top judicial officer The announcement was made during the Commemoration of the Opening of the 2025-2026 Law Term at the Convocation Hall, Hall of Justice, Port of Spain Archie, who turned 65 on August 18, said in his address: “Chief Justice is what I do; it is not who I am. The Office of CJ is not private property or something you own or cling to It is held in trust for the nation I am just a single runner in a never-ending relay and the baton must be passed at some time ” He emphasized that his decision was made to ensure transparency and seamless succession
Although the retirement age for judges was raised from 65 to 70 in 2020, Archie chose to retire on his own terms “No matter how innovative a leader may be, an infusion of fresh ideas from a new leader is desirable from time to time I also want to find new challenges and opportunities as I continue to grow,” he said Archie’s judicial career spans more than two decades Appointed a puisne judge in 1998, he was elevated to the Court of Appeal in 2004 and became Trinidad
and Tobago’s eighth and youngest Chief Justice on January 24, 2008 He also serves as Chairman of the Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC) and President of the Trinidad and Tobago Judicial Education Institute
Among the judges considered potential successors are Justices of Appeal R
Henderson, and Peter Rajkumar Archie’s tenure has seen landmark judicial developments Most recently, in
March 2025, the Privy Council upheld a judgment in favor of Justice Marcia AyersCaesar, ruling she had been unlawfully pressured by the JLSC under Archie’s leadership to resign from the High Court in 2017 The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) described the matter as a “serious concern” regarding judicial independence and security of tenure Senior Counsel Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj, part of the legal team in the Ayers-Caesar case, commented on the ruling, stating: “I cannot see how anyone in that position can just continue in office as if nothing happened ”
Born in Tobago on August 18, 1960, Archie earned a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of the West Indies before studying law at Solent University in the United Kingdom He later held senior legal positions in Trinidad and Tobago, the Cayman Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands, including as Solicitor General in the Cayman Islands Archie has been recognized for his service with the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT) in 2013 and has made significant contributions to judicial education and reform in the country
Archie
Duncan
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Venezuela’s Maduro accuses T&T
Prime Minister of threatening war
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Monday accused Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of threatening to authorize attacks on Venezuelan territory, calling her remarks “crazy” and akin to a declaration of war.
“The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago went crazy, she went crazy because she was threatening that she was going to authorize attacks from Trinidad and Tobago against Venezuela That is like declaring war against Venezuela,” Maduro said during a press conference
Maduro said he was certain the people of Trinidad and Tobago did not support such a stance, and urged the country to return to “relations of respect ” He speculated that outside forces, including U S politicians, were influencing Persad-Bissessar “Who is behind this? Marco Rubio of course The death war and warlord, that is how he is being described,” Maduro said Venezuela’s Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López also issued a warning, stating that any attack launched from Trinidad and Tobago or Guyana would be met with a response In an Instagram post, he said such retaliation would constitute legitimate
“The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago went crazy, she went crazy because she was threatening that she was going to authorize attacks from Trinidad and Tobago against Venezuela That is like declaring war against Venezuela” – Maduro
defense
“To those who sent a written statement from the United States, I am referring to the governments of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the government of Trinidad and Tobago, who have played along I say to you, well, if they attack you from your territory, you will also receive a response, and that is legitimate defense,” Padrino said The minister accused Trinidad and Tobago of aligning with Washington, noting Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s recent praise for U S military operations in the
Antigua’s
Caribbean He also denounced the interception of a Venezuelan tuna boat by the U S Navy destroyer USS Jason Dunham, saying fishermen were detained for eight hours during the search
Maduro emphasized Venezuela’s historic ties with its neighbor, saying Sucre State and Trinidad once shared a sense of community and cooperation He added that “there has never been a governor of Trinidad to threaten a war against Venezuela” until PersadBissessar’s government
Persad-Bissessar, for her part, has denied any plans to invade Venezuela, saying her government’s priority is to keep its citizens safe She previously welcomed U S countertrafficking efforts in the region, pledging access to Trinidad and Tobago’s territory in the event of a Venezuelan attack on Guyana, and has said U S forces should “kill all drug traffickers violently ”
Scan the QR Code to read more.
PM rejects calls to ‘rebalance’ ties between US and China
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has dismissed suggestions that Antigua and Barbuda, along with other Caribbean nations, should “rebalance” their relationships between the United States and the People’s Republic of China (PRC)
Speaking at a ceremony marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the PRC, Browne said Antigua and Barbuda has already achieved the right balance in its international partnerships
“There are some who argue erroneously that countries in the Caribbean that support China need to rebalance But I ask, what is there to rebalance?” Browne stated
He described the United States as “the most important country” to the Caribbean in terms of tourism and trade, while praising China for its consistent support through grants, concessional loans, and infrastructure development
“The United States is our largest source market for visitors and goods, and it plays an indispensable role in our development,” Browne said “At the same time, China has been a benevolent partner, helping us with critical projects in housing, education, and ports There is no conflict here — both relationships serve our national interests ”
The Prime Minister stressed that Antigua and Barbuda will not allow any outside power to dictate its foreign policy, reiterating his administration’s defense of sovereignty
“We don’t expect China to tell us that we need to rebalance our relationship with the
United States And similarly, we don’t expect the United States to dictate to us as a small sovereign country,” he said Browne also pointed to recent collaboration with Washington on the Alfa Nero matter, emphasizing that Antigua acted in its own national interest “China did not interfere, nor has it ever interfered, in our relations with the United States That’s what mutual respect looks like,” he added Despite vast differences in size and population, Browne said China has consistently treated Antigua and Barbuda as an equal partner He recalled discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping as an example of the mutual respect underpinning their relationship
“China, a country of 1 4 billion people, sits with us, a nation of 100,000, at the same table That respect is not only meaningful — it is a model of how global relations should work,” Browne said
Persad-Bissessar
Maduro
Browne
Haitian Government mobilises resources to regain control of Port-au-Prince
The Haitian Government has assured citizens that it is mobilising all available resources to regain full control of territories occupied by criminal gangs, while life in the capital is gradually returning to normal
“The Government is taking steps to restore the city centre to what it once was,” said Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé “The state calls on the entire population to cooperate with the authorities together, we can ensure security, freedom and dignity for every citizen ” He emphasised that public safety is nonnegotiable and that the state will never abandon its citizens
Last week, the Office of the Prime Minister released a video on social media showing progress in reclaiming areas seized by gangs, who have challenged the provisional Government since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on July 7, 2021 According to the Prime Minister’s office, operations led by the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H) in downtown Port-au-Prince are ongoing and will continue until full state control is restored
The nearly three-minute video highlights rapid cleanup efforts, including the removal of
over 1,000 cubic metres of waste and more than 200 wrecked vehicles The Ministry of Public Works, in coordination with other state agencies, is repairing roads and restoring infrastructure to allow normal movement of people and vehicles
Nations delegation led by Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief
Coordinator (OCHA) Discussions focused on immediate national priorities, including security restoration, humanitarian aid for displaced populations, election preparation, economic recovery, and the resumption of air travel
“Security remains the essential condition for the resumption of national life and the organisation of free and credible elections,” said President Saint-Cyr He reiterated the Government’s commitment to combating armed gangs, restoring state authority, and rebuilding public confidence “Haiti needs increased support from the international community to emerge from this crisis Gangs will not dictate the future of the country ” Prime Minister Fils-Aimé highlighted that millions of Haitians remain extremely vulnerable due to insecurity and stressed the importance of channeling aid through the Haitian Government to ensure coordination On elections, he noted that 87 percent of polling centres have been identified, 70 percent of electoral staff mobilised, and national funding of US$65 million has been secured through a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) managed common fund
Haiti’s draft Constitution enshrines gender parity
Haiti’s draft new Constitution formally establishes gender parity as a constitutional principle, a move hailed by officials as a historic advance for women ’ s rights in the country
At a recent press conference, Pedrica Saint Jean, Minister for the Status of Women and Women’s Rights (MCFDF), welcomed the inclusion of her ministry’s recommendations in the document She said Article 16 enshrines gender equality, creating a clear legal framework to protect women ’ s rights
“Today, equality between women and men
remains a central issue for the country,” Saint Jean said, announcing the creation of a monitoring committee to ensure gender parity is implemented under the new Constitution She added that no lasting change can be achieved without the active participation of women, and stressed that equality must serve as a pillar of national development
The minister also pointed to Haiti’s commitments under international conventions, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention
Saint Jean
of Belém do Pará on protection against violence toward women Joseph André Gracien Jean, Minister Delegate to the Prime Minister for Electoral and Constitutional Affairs, praised Saint Jean’s “ courage and determination” in pushing for gender parity during the constitutional drafting process He described its inclusion as “ a major advance that will be remembered in the history of national and global feminist movements,” while noting that the fight for emancipation and equality remains ongoing
Last week, President of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) Laurent Saint-Cyr and Prime Minister Fils-Aimé met with a United
A Case for Caribbean Action on Mental Health
BySirRonaldSanders
Mental health is no longer hidden in the margins of public life, whether in Europe, North America, or the Caribbean It is a growing global reality that costs lives and livelihoods, and prevents social cohesion and economic inclusion
Yet, while the problem is no longer a secret, its treatment in the Caribbean too often remains one of embarrassed secrecy Elderly people are institutionalized; younger people are locked away at home or in institutions Dedicated practitioners do their best, but they lack equipment and medications And there are not enough trained mental-health doctors and nurses
The World Health Organization WHO) estimates that more than one billion people live with mental-health conditions, and the trend is upward The latest official global count is that 727,000 people died by suicide in 2021 In 2023, in the United States alone, 49,316 people died by suicide Caribbean record-keeping is weak What little exists often reflects only institutionalized patients, but anyone working in schools, clinics, or courts knows the cases are rising
Social media is part of this picture, particularly for the young It is near-universal among teens: roughly 95% of 13–17-year-olds use it Frequent users are more likely to report bullying (in school and online), persistent sadness or hopelessness, and suicide risk
Spending more than three hours a day on social media is associated with roughly double the risk of anxiety and depressive symptoms, and teens now average about 4 8 hours daily online
In the Caribbean, accurate records are thin, but the pattern is unmistakable. In The Bahamas, a 2023 survey of 1,563 grade-nine students found two-thirds spending 3+ hours/day on social media; 46% had experienced cyberbullying; 62% reported depressed mood; and 48% had seriously considered
suicide Girls reported more cyberbullying (55% vs 37% for boys), and cyberbullying or sexting roughly doubled the odds of depression and suicidal ideation
Jamaica shows similar strain: UNICEF reports six in ten students have been bullied at some point, and a U-Report poll found about 39% of youth had experienced cyberbullying However, this data is not comprehensive because the problem is not being tackled fully The pattern is the same throughout the region
Climate stress is compounding the problem The mental pressure of Hurricanes does not end with the chaos they wreak before moving on They leave behind anxiety, grief, and trauma that surface months later in classrooms, clinics, and workplaces
Against this backdrop, Antigua and Barbuda has chosen to act Prime Minister Gaston Browne has kept mental health squarely on the national, hemispheric, and international agenda At the 55th Regular Session of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States in June 2025, member states adopted the Resolution, “Addressing the Critical Mental Health Crisis in the Americas ” As Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the OAS, I advanced this initiative to move the issue from sympathy to structure: a working group open to all states, and a partnership with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to explore a regional fund to address the problem
The mental health problem is real worldwide and worsening Wealthy countries have the means to address their domestic needs The Caribbean must do the same Resources must be allocated, country by country, based on clear plans and measurable objectives But first, we must acknowledge the scale of the challenge, stop hiding it in families or locking it away in institutions that were never designed to heal, and commit to care that is close to daily life: in primary clinics, in schools, in communities, and at moments of
crisis
This September, world leaders will meet in New York for the United Nations High-Level Meeting on noncommunicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being
The Caribbean should arrive not with rhetoric, but with clear objectives they want to achieve
In the margins of that meeting, there will be a private roundtable on “Political action and investment for mental health equity,” organized by the Clinton Global Initiative, cohosted by Prime Minister Browne and PAHO, to spotlight recent progress and identify practical pathways to accelerate investment
The goal is simple: turn high-level words into financed, measurable delivery
But the Caribbean should not rely on external support for addressing its worsening mental health problem Across the world, nations are confronted with their own challenges Therefore, the Caribbean should collectively design and finance a roadmap for mental health owned by CARICOM, budgeted by our governments, and delivered through our clinics, schools, and communities
Governments should not wait for the outside world to underwrite their national responsibilities If we put real policy on paper and real money in our budgets -however limited - then implement a timetable the public can see, partners will come That is how small states show seriousness: we start with our own resources, prove momentum, and invite the world to match what we are already doing, not to do it for us
It is in the region’s interest not to depend on handouts to end its critical challenges, including worsening mental health
US Department of State limits nonimmigrant visa interviews to home countries
The U S. Department of State (DOS) announced that all nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants must now schedule their visa interview appointments at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence
Previously, applicants had the flexibility to schedule interviews in third countries with shorter wait times The updated policy standardizes where NIV interviews may take place, reducing this flexibility The change follows a similar DOS announcement last week regarding immigrant visa interview locations and is part of ongoing efforts to tighten the U S visa process
The policy applies to nearly all NIV applicants, including those seeking temporary work visas (H, L), student visas (F, M, J), and tourism/business visas (B-1/B2) Certain visa categories, including diplomatic, official, and UN-related visas, are exempt. Applicants from countries where routine NIV operations are unavailable must apply at designated embassies or consulates
For Caribbean applicants, the designated posts under the new policy are:
• Cuba: Georgetown
• Haiti: Nassau
Applicants who schedule interviews outside their country of residence or nationality may face greater difficulty qualifying for a visa. Fees will not be refunded or transferred if appointments take place outside the required location Exceptions for humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy reasons may be granted at the DOS’s discretion Existing appointments generally will not be changed or canceled
The DOS warned that travelers from countries without routine NIV operations may face longer wait times and higher travel costs under the new rules
U.S. State Department Introduces $1 Fee for Diversity Visa Lottery Registration
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced recently that, beginning October 16, 2025, all individuals registering for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery (or “green card lottery”) must pay a $1 electronic registration fee. This is the first time that participants will be charged simply to enter the annual lottery
The change is intended to distribute the costs of managing the DV lottery more evenly across all registrants, instead of placing the burden only on the small number of applicants who are selected to apply for a visa
The new policy comes just before the registration period for the 2027 DV lottery, which opens in early October (exact dates to be announced by DOS)
Key Details About the New
Fee
$1 registration fee: All participants must pay $1 USD when submitting their electronic entry on the official U S government website Payment must be made through an authorized U S government portal at the time of registration Application fee unchanged: The $330 DV application fee for selected applicants remains the same However, certain administrative costs once covered by this fee will now be covered in the registration fee instead
Non-refundable: Registration fees will not be refunded, regardless of lottery results or whether applicants move forward with a visa application Fees cannot be transferred between lottery years
The DV lottery grants up to 55,000 immigrant visas each year to applicants from countries with historically low levels of immigration to the U S In recent years, the program has received tens of millions of entries annually, resulting in significant administrative costs for the government
According to DOS, the new fee structure means that an estimated 25 million annual registrants will help cover program expenses, rather than only the 55,000 lottery
winners who move forward with applications. This change is expected to generate approximately $25 million annually in new revenue for the DV lottery’s operational costs, which include system upgrades, enhanced data collection, and security reviews
The Department also noted that the fee could help reduce fraud by discouraging third-party scammers from submitting multiple fake entries
What This Means for DV Lottery Applicants
This fee adjustment is part of a broader trend of introducing or increasing fees across U S immigration services It reflects a shift in how program costs are shared, placing greater responsibility on applicants and less on the U S government, and aligns with the Trump administration’s push for increased oversight of the immigration system
DOS expects overall demand for the DV lottery to decline slightly as a result of the new fee Fewer entries could improve odds for applicants while easing the administrative burden of processing tens of millions of registrations
The additional revenue is also expected to strengthen the DV program by improving security, enhancing efficiency, and potentially reducing processing times
Updates from the USCIS
USCIS reaches H-2B cap for first half of fiscal year 2026
U S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced Tuesday that it has received enough petitions to meet the congressionally established H-2B cap for the first half of fiscal year 2026
The agency confirmed that September 12 was the final receipt date for new cap-subject H-2B worker petitions requesting an employment start date before April 1, 2026 Any petitions received after that date for employment beginning before April 1 will be rejected
The H-2B visa program allows U S employers to hire temporary non-agricultural workers when there are not enough U S workers available Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, Congress has established a statutory limit or cap on the total number of H-2B visas granted each fiscal year The current cap is set at 66,000 workers, split evenly between the first half of the fiscal year (October 1–March 31) and the second half (April 1–September 30) Unused numbers from the first half may be used in the second half, but they do not carry over into the following fiscal year
USCIS emphasized that the cap applies to nearly all H-2B applicants, including first-time applicants, those seeking to renew their visa, or individuals changing the terms of their employment Petitions for workers who are exempt from the cap such as those already in the United States in H-2B status extending their stay, changing employers, or modifying their employment terms will continue to be accepted Likewise, workers who have previously been counted against the cap in the same fiscal year are not subject to the limit if indicated on the petition
Other categories exempt from the cap include the spouses and children of H-2B workers classified as H-4 nonimmigrants, fish roe processors, fish roe technicians, and supervisors of fish roe processing Additionally, workers performing labor or
services in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or Guam remain exempt until December 31, 2029
The agency warned that applicants scheduling interviews outside the standard process or attempting to circumvent the cap may face rejection, and fees for petitions that are denied due to the cap are not refundable USCIS also encouraged the public to report suspected fraud or abuse related to the H-2B program through its online tip form
As the first-half cap for fiscal year 2026 has been reached, only exempt workers or those not subject to the cap will continue to be accepted Employers planning to hire H-2B workers for the second half of the fiscal year, beginning April 1, 2026, can still submit petitions once the second-half cap becomes available
USCIS to enforce consequences for immigrants who falsify information
The U S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced new policy guidance aimed at strengthening screening and vetting processes to combat immigration fraud, including false claims to U S citizen-
ship
“U S Citizenship and Immigration Services is restoring robust screening and vetting processes to detect aliens seeking to defraud or abuse the immigration system, including aliens who make false claims to U S citizenship,” the agency said in a statement
“We also are actively increasing public awareness among aliens and the public about the consequences of committing immigration fraud Aliens who use false information or deceitful practices to unfairly obtain immigration advantages will face serious consequences ”
The agency said it has updated the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 8, Part K, Chapter 2, to clarify how the 2019 Board of Immigration Appeals decision in Matter of Zhang applies to cases involving false claims of U S citizenship
The new guidance took effect immediately and applies to all requests pending or filed on or after the publication date
According to USCIS, the clarified policy specifies that the decision in Matter of Zhang supersedes all prior Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy that provided a defense to inadmissibility for false claims to U S citizenship under section 212(a)(6)(C)(ii) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) It also explains how the agency considers age, knowledge, and mental capacity in determin-
ing whether an individual had the subjective intent to gain an immigration or other legal benefit through a false claim
The agency noted that the updated guidance contained in the Policy Manual is controlling and overrides any previous instructions on the matter
USCIS to modernize fee payments with electronic funds
U S Citizenship and Immigration Services has implemented a new way to pay fees using electronic debit from a U S bank account
Effective immediately, individuals can make transactions directly to USCIS by completing and signing Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, and filing it with their applications, petitions, or requests
The move aligns with Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments to and from America’s Bank Account, and is aimed at reducing the time and manpower required to process checks and money orders, as well as reducing the risks of fraud, lost payments, and theft
“We have a responsibility to the American people to operate as efficiently and securely as possible,” said USCIS Spokesman Matthew J Tragesser “Over 90% of our payments come from checks and money orders, causing processing delays and increasing the risk of fraud and lost payments America deserves better, and we intend to deliver ” This new ACH debit payment option is in addition to the existing option of paying by credit card using Form G-1450, giving individuals multiple options to pay required fees
USCIS will continue to accept paper check and money order payments in addition to credit and debit payments until Oct 28, 2025 After Oct 28, USCIS will accept only ACH debit transactions using Form G-1650 or credit card payments using Form G-1450
Former Jackson Health Foundation
exec pleads guilty to $4.3M fraud
The former chief operating officer of Jackson Health Foundation has admitted to stealing millions of dollars from the nonprofit through false invoices, kickbacks, and personal luxury purchases, federal prosecutors announced Monday.
According to court documents, from 2014 through 2024, Charmaine Gatlin, 52, served as COO of the Foundation, which is the fundraising arm of Jackson Health System During her tenure, Gatlin drew a base salary ranging from
$185,000 and $290,000 Despite her compensation, Gatlin admitted that she defrauded the Foundation out of at least $4 3 million by directing funds to herself, her relatives, or unrelated entities, rather than to the Foundation or Jackson Health System
For example, Gatlin approved approximately $2 million in invoices from a Georgiabased audiovisual company for services that were never provided In return, the vendor paid Gatlin $1 million in kickbacks, which she used in part to pay her personal credit card bill Gatlin coached the vendor on how to falsify invoices, including billing for audiovisual services that had already been donated to the Foundation The vendor, Yergan Jones, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire
fraud in connection with the scheme Gatlin also directed a merchandise vendor to purchase luxury items for her from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Apple in exchange for keeping the Foundation’s business Gatlin further misused restricted donations, such as approving $55,101 in Foundation funds to purchase 10,000 “first aid kits” falsely labeled as “trauma burn giveaways” from the same vendor In another instance, Gatlin submitted a false invoice to cover the purchase of a rose gold-colored golf cart, which she had delivered to her Weston home in September 2023 Gatlin is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov 25 before U S District Judge Beth Bloom She faces up to 20 years in federal prison
Lauderhill passes FY2026 budget with tax cuts, senior rebates & social services boost
After months of preparation, the Lauderhill City Commission approved the FY2026 Budget at a Special Commission Meeting, delivering several wins for residents, including tax cuts, senior utility relief, and deeper investment in social services
Among the highlights:
• Taxes have been lowered to their lowest level since 2017
• No increase in fire fees
• A 1 2% overall reduction in the city budget
• $1 million allocated for water rebates for senior citizens
• Expanded social services assistance, with fewer budgeted events
Mayor Denise D Grant expressed her
gratitude to city staff and the community, saying:
“Huge thanks to my team and staff for their dedication! Thank you for affording me the opportunity to lead this great city Let’s keep making Lauderhill a better place to live!”
For longtime homeowners and renters alike, this budget provides relief at a time when many are feeling the pinch With lowered taxes and stable fire fees, monthly financial burdens are eased
Water rebates for seniors will help mitigate utility costs for one of the city’s more vulnerable populations And increased social service funding should mean better access to essential supports from emergency housing help to food assistance — even if fewer cultural or recreational events are on the schedule
The city’s Finance Department, which manages Lauderhill’s budget, payroll, utility
billing, and debt, will oversee implementation
Officials noted that the new water rebate program builds on existing senior relief initiatives, while maintaining stability in key utility fees In past financial reports, Lauderhill has relied on revenue streams such as utility taxes and franchise fees for electricity, water, and telecommunications, making the current tax cut especially notable
By reducing the overall budget by 1 2% and lowering taxes, the City signals a priority on fiscal discipline and resident welfare The $1 million in senior water rebates addresses affordability, especially for those on fixed incomes
Keeping fire fees steady prevents another cost burden And boosting social services suggests a shift toward necessary supports over “nice-to-have” events, perhaps reflecting both economic pressures and resident needs
weakness or discomfort,
, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, and paralysis
Animals that pose a h i g h e r r i s k i n c l u d e raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes Anyone exposed to r a b i e
attention, as post-exposure treatment is highly effective in preventing infection
The alert covers a section of Broward County with the following boundaries:
• North: Interstate 595
• South: Southwest 26th Street
• East: Southwest 112th Avenue
• West: Southwest 148th Avenue
DOH-Broward recommends the following precautions:
• Ensure pets and livestock are up to d a t e o n r a b i e s vaccinations
• Keep pets on a leash and livestock secured If an animal is bitten by another animal, seek veterinary care and contact local A n i m a l C o n t r o l Services
• Avoid contact with wild or stray animals, and do not feed or attract them with outdoor food or open garbage
• R e p o r t b i t e s o r scratches from wild or domestic animals to DOH-Broward at 954-467-4700
• Never bring wild animals into your h o m e ; i n s t e a d , contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator Call your local animal control to remove stray animals and prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering homes or occupied spaces
Gatlin
COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA
Broward County approves $8.8B budget, cuts property tax rate
Broward County residents will see a slight break on their property tax bills in Fiscal Year 2026, after commissioners approved a $1 7 billion property tax budget that lowers the county’s millage rate to 5 6658 mills
The county’s overall budget for the year, which includes non-property tax-supported agencies such as the airport, seaport, and utilities, totals $8 8 billion
Crafting the budget proved challenging, officials said, due to the loss of $80 million in funding to the newly elected Tax Collector’s Office and the need to cover costs for all county-wide constitutional offices To offset the shortfall, commissioners cut 159 funded positions and trimmed nearly $20 million in recurring operating costs from General Fund agencies
Even with reductions, public safety received the largest operating appropriation in county history The budget allocates $24 2 million more for the Broward Sheriff’s Office regional operations and 911 services — a 3% increase — which includes the second year of an $8 million salary adjustment for detention
For residents, the modest tax reduction means more money in their pockets at a time of rising costs Commissioners said the FY26 budget maintains funding for essential services like transportation, parks, libraries, environmental protection, and senior and veterans’ programs while preparing for future needs With Broward’s large CaribbeanAmerican population — many of whom rely on public services, small business opportunities, and cultural programs county leaders stressed that the budget is designed to balance fiscal responsibility with community investment
Williams, and Deputies Brittney King, Daniel Munoz, Lemar Blackwood and Eric Klisiak
Others received suspensions ranging from five to 15 days, including Deputies Dia Cross, Eric Baldy, Daniel Lovallo, Daimeon Nelson, Sophie Riggs, and Ilany Cebalos Two deputies had allegations against them dismissed Tony said body camera footage, sworn statements and surveillance video revealed deputies staged nearby as Mary ran for her life, rather than intervening A neighbor had called 911 to report gunshots and screams, but deputies remained in their vehicles for more than 20 minutes before approaching the home
“That is not within policy, that’s not what we train,” Tony said “Seconds matter They’re the difference between life and death ”
The sheriff acknowledged failures in handling Mary’s prior domestic violence reports but said the most serious mistakes came the day of the killings, when deputies failed to engage as Gingles shot Ponzer in the backyard, then killed Mary and Ferrin
Deputy union president Dan Rakofsky criticized the terminations, saying the deputies acted appropriately under the circumstances “Each and every one of these members’ cases will be heard in arbitration,” he said “We are confident the facts will show that our members could not have done anything different to change the tragic outcome ”
Family members of the victims expressed mixed emotions Ferrin’s uncle said he was glad accountability was being sought but questioned whether it would lead to meaningful change “It doesn’t bring my nephew back,” he said “Mistakes were made and lives were lost I’m glad that there is accountability, but is it going to change anything?”
Tony said he met with victims’ families Thursday to personally take responsibility “This was not an organizational or administrational failure,” he said “Either they were incompetent at the moment or just cowards I can assure you that moving forward, we will be better ”
Gingles, a U.S. military veteran, was arrested later that day after a standoff at a North Lauderdale Walmart, where deputies confronted him while he carried his barefoot 4-year-old daughter, Seraphine Detectives believe the child witnessed the shootings
He remains in the Broward County Main Jail on three counts of first-degree murder, kidnapping and other charges Prosecutors announced in March that they will seek the death penalty
ENTERTAINMENT
Kranium calls out ‘biggest violation ever’ after Caribbean Music Awards blunder
The glitz and glamour of the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards (CMAs) were overshadowed by a controversy that has left fans, industry insiders, and one well-known artiste demanding answers
Jamaican-born recording artist Kranium is speaking out after being stripped of the ‘Caribbean R&B Artist of the Year’ title, an award he was initially celebrated for during last month’s event in Brooklyn, New York
Held on August 28 at the historic Kings Theatre and televised on BET on September 12th, the CMAs were positioned as a major platform to honour the best in Caribbean music across genres and regions, but the celebration took a sharp turn when confusion erupted over one of the event’s top R&B honours Following the awards, fans and media outlets alike congratulated Kranium on what appeared to be a well-earned recognition in the Caribbean R&B space; however, that joy was short-lived
A social media post from the official Caribbean Music Awards account listing the complete set of winners identified Dexta Daps, not Kranium, as the winner in the Caribbean Dancehall R&B Artist of the Year category
Legendary
The post made no mention of Kranium at all, prompting confusion and speculation among fans
Kranium later revealed that he had been informed privately by the organisers that the initial announcement of his win was a mistake; a clerical or procedural error that led
to him being wrongfully awarded the title Taking to Instagram, Kranium did not mince words In a pointed post to his fans and followers, he wrote: “Respect to everybody nothing else to say biggest violation ever and it shall be the last ” The artist, known for hits like “Nobody
Has to Know” and “Gal Policy,” also voiced his dismay over the silence from organisers, labelling the ordeal as blatant disrespect
“It’s a major violation I was awarded, I celebrated with fans, only to be told later it was an error That’s not just a mix-up, that’s a disrespect,” he stated in a video post, which has since gone viral across social media platforms
The CMAs, still in their early years, have been praised for creating a platform to amplify Caribbean talent on an international scale However, this incident raises serious questions about transparency, professionalism, and accountability behind the scenes
As of publication, the Caribbean Music Awards organisation has yet to release an official statement addressing the blunder, the reason for the mix-up, or whether Kranium will receive any formal apology or recognition Fans and industry professionals have taken to social media in support of Kranium, calling for greater transparency in the award process and more respect for artists who dedicate their lives to the craft For now, Kranium’s message is clear: he wants accountability, and he’s not staying silent
Virgin Islands musician Louis B. Taylor Jr. dies at 76
Louis B Taylor Jr , a celebrated Virgin Islands musician, educator, and community activist, died Friday, September 12, on his 76th birthday His passing has drawn tributes from leaders across the territory, as well as from the community he served for decades through music and mentorship
Congresswoman Stacey E Plaskett called Taylor “a legendary musician, dedicated educator, and beloved son of St Thomas,” adding that his death “represents not just the loss of an exceptional artist, but the end of an era ” Born in Savan in 1949 and raised in the
Upstreet neighborhood, Taylor grew up in a musical family His grandfathers, Ernest Spooner of the Bamboula Fungi band and Bernard Taylor of the naval band under Alton Adams Sr , inspired his early passion for music He began piano lessons at age 11, and by high school he was already performing jazz professionally with the Charlotte Amalie High School band and at the V I Hilton Hotel with the Cedric Swan Combo He later earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Tennessee State University
Taylor’s career spanned more than 60 years, blending jazz with quelbe and
Caribbean folk traditions while sharing stages with music greats including Cab Calloway, Lou Rawls, Isaac Hayes, and Chaka Khan
Beyond his artistry, he spent more than three decades teaching at Joseph Gomez Elementary, Bertha C Boschulte Junior High, Addelita Cancryn Junior High, and the University of the Virgin Islands Many of his students went on to become musicians themselves, carrying forward the cultural heritage he worked to preserve
Just weeks before his death, the community honored him with a tribute concert at the Charlotte Amalie High School Auditorium,
where fellow musicians from across the islands celebrated his lifetime of contributions Despite physical challenges, Taylor attended the event and witnessed the outpouring of love from those he mentored Governor Albert Bryan Jr described him as “a gifted Virgin Islander whose talents and dedication left a lasting mark on our community,” while Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach praised his “ many significant and outstanding contributions” as both a musician and teacher Roach, who attended last month’s tribute concert, said Taylor’s influence “will undoubtedly be regarded as his
People Together Through
Sweet Experiences Bringing
SPORTS Jamaica to honor sprint legend Fraser-Pryce upon retirement
Jamaica is preparing to celebrate the illustrious career of sprint icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, following her final individual race at a major international tournament Sports Minister Olivia Grange confirmed plans to honor the “Pocket Rocket” for her remarkable contributions to track and field
Fraser-Pryce, 38, completed her final individual 100m race on Sunday, finishing sixth with a time of 11 03 seconds While the result wasn’t a fairytale podium finish, her career achievements have firmly cemented her place among the greatest female sprinters of all time
Nicknamed the “Pocket Rocket” for her explosive starts and fierce acceleration despite her 5foot frame, Fraser-Pryce’s trophy cabinet includes three Olympic gold medals the first in the 100m by a Caribbean woman five World Championships golds, and seven national titles She has previously received the keys to the city of Kingston and had a road in her community of Waterhouse named in her honor, underscoring her status as a national treasure
Minister Grange praised her enduring legacy:
“I must single out Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who is Jamaica’s most decorated female athlete She has earned three Olympic gold medals, including the first by a Caribbean woman in the 100 metre sprint, a staggering 10 world championships, with a record five wins in the 100 metres, and seven national championships I want her to know that the Government of Jamaica will celebrate her two decades of excellence on the track She remains our beloved pocket rocket ”
Beyond her medals, Fraser-Pryce has become a symbol of resilience and inspiration, balancing her dominance on the track with her roles as a mother and mentor Despite a limited campaign this season, she secured her spot at her ninth World Championships by finishing third at the Jamaican trials
Her Tokyo farewell marks the end of an extraordinary journey that began at the 2007 World Championships in Osaka, where she competed as a reserve on Jamaica’s 4x100m relay squad From that debut to her storied career spanning nearly two decades, Fraser-Pryce has consistently redefined sprinting, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come
West Indies unveil packed overseas calendar to close out 2025
The West Indies men ’ s team will embark on a whirlwind finish to 2025, with tours scheduled across four countries following home assignments against Australia and Pakistan
In just under three months, the regional side will contest 22 international matches spanning all three formats
The tour begins with a landmark series in Sharjah, where the West Indies will face Nepal in their first-ever bilateral encounter The three-match T20 International series runs from September 27 to 30, opening a busy stretch that will test both depth and endurance
Immediately after, the West Indies will shift focus to red-ball cricket, traveling to India for their first Test tour there since 2018 The two-match series, part of the 2 0 2 5 – 2 0 2 7 I C C W o r l d T e s t Championship cycle, starts October 2-6 in Ahmedabad before moving to Delhi from October 10-14 The contests promise to be a stern challenge in familiar subcontinental conditions
Tajay Gayle, Jamaica’s 2019 world long jump champion, reclaimed his place among the sport’s elite on Wednesday night, soaring to silver in the men ’ s long jump final at Japan’s National Stadium Now guided by Kerrylee Ricketts husband and coach of multiple global medalist Shanieka Ricketts Gayle equaled his season ’ s best with a leap of 8 34m That effort secured second place behind Italy’s 20-year-old sensation Mattia Furlani, who stunned the field with a lifetime-best 8 39m
The contest carried its share of drama Furlani struck on his penultimate attempt, moments after Gayle had left a significant distance wasted on the board an effort that might have sailed him beyond the Italian had his run-up been more precise
China’s Yuheo Shi captured bronze with a season-best 8 33m, while Jamaica’s other finalist, Nikaoli Williams, managed ninth with 7 85m Gayle’s silver lifted Jamaica’s championship tally to six medals: one gold, four silvers, and one bronze
From India, the Caribbean side heads east for a white-ball showdown in Bangladesh The schedule features three One-Day Internationals and three T20 Internationals from October 18 to November 1 Venues are still to be confirmed, but the series is expected to draw packed crowds given the nations’ spirited cricketing rivalry
The calendar year concludes with a comprehensive tour of New Zealand between November 5 and December 22 The itinerary includes five T20 Internationals, three ODIs, and three Tests staged across iconic venues such as Auckland, Dunedin, Christchurch, Napier, Hamilton, Wellington, and Mount Maunganui
Gayle
