Caribbean National Weekly November 10, 2022

The Republicans scored the largest victories in the Florida's governor's race in which incumbent Governor Ron DeSantis was reelected over challenger Charlie Crist by a whopping 20 percent margin, and Val Demings, despite a strong campaign, lost to incumbent Senator Marco Rubio by over 16 percent Republican voters in Florida turned out in much higher numbers to not only give DeSantis and Rubio strong victories but they have given both the Florida House of Representatives and Senate super majorities, or significant two third majorities which guarantee the passage of bills proposed by Republican members It also gives the Republicans the power to override a governor's veto and the rules that controls the passage of legislation

Despite the record spending by the political parties and the candidates during the elections, the voter turnout in South Florida was still relatively low, averaging 43 percent But while Republicans surged in votes, especially in Miami Dade where voters gave DeSantis a historical victory, Democrats for unknown reasons were content to stay away from the polling places

Gone are the years when the Democratic Party in South Florida was seen as the party of Afro Americans and Hispanics Since 2016 Hispanics have been drifting away from the Democratic Party, culminating in heavy Hispanic votes for Republican candidates in

Dr. Rose Marie Adam Lewis Committed to serving the Jamaican Diaspora

Marco Rubio

Ron DeSantis

Jamaica Tourist Board officials and stakeholder partners (from le to right): John Long, Vice President, Sales, Iberostar Group; Haydee Blanco Sales Director FL/US Lan, Caribbean & Central America, American Airlines; Pauline Pigo, Vice President, Sales, North America, Couples Resorts; and Marvin Alvarez Ochoa, Sales Manager Caribbean, Lan America, Guyana & Suriname American Airlines; Francine Carter Henry, Tour Operator and Airlines Manager; Donnie Dawson Deputy Director of Tourism, Americas; Karlene Shakes, Naonal Sales Manager; and Christopher Wright, Business Development Manager at the 2022 Travvy Awards ceremony. – Contributed

Denise Grant (center) celebrang her elecon victory with friends as Commissioner of Lauderhill –Contributed

South Floridians Georgia and Nickie took

me out for the lens at the recent

Merritone reunion in Negril – Contributed

Florida Golden Girls (L R in front) Em, Peaches , Viv (rear) Ginger and Val hanging out in Negril Jamaica at the recent Merritone reunion all white event. – Contributed

Dr. Allan Cunningham and friends celebrang Nadine Samuel's (Ava) birthday at Reggae Pon De Grill in Tamarac last Saturday. – Contributed

City of Lauderhill Fire Chief Robert Torres (2nd from right) welcomed home Hurricane Ian deployment strike team members: (from le) FF Henry Rudd, FF Jusn Wells & Lt Juan Velez. – Contributed

Members of the Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale and the Rotary Club of Old Fort recently had a day of service for special needs schools in Nassau, Bahamas. –Contributed

Mikey and Charles at the Merritone reunion in Negril Jamaica recently. –Contributed

Dr. Rose Marie Adamson Lewis

Committed to serving the Jamaican Diaspora

Dr Rose Marie Adamson Lewis is furthering her commitment to serving Jamaicans across the diaspora

This year, the board certified family nurse practitioner, specializing in psychiatric disorders and mental health, is running for the position of Southern United States Representative for the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council The representative will be a liaison to Jamaica's Minister of Foreign Affairs across thirteen states

As the sitting president of the Jamaican Diaspora Southern USA and the past treasurer at the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Representative, Southern United States, Dr Adamson Lewis is already an influential and prominent figure in Jamaica's diaspora affairs

She serves on the boards of several community building organizations, including the South Florida based nonprofit, Partner For Youth Foundation and the Global Humanity Network She's also a recipient of the US President Lifetime Achievement Award for outstanding community service, and takes a medical mission to Jamaica every year and has adopted the Robin's Hall Health Center in Manchester

As a stalwart of community development, Dr Adamson Lewis possesses a strong connection to her island home, and hopes to spearhead her detailed agenda for change

Born and raised in Robin's H Manchester, Jamaica, Dr Adamson never strayed from the island she hold years ago, but in truth, I have not left Jamaica, really,” she explains She makes a point to visit the island multiple times a year, either recreationally or on medical missions, and keeps abreast of local affairs

Fundamentally, she understands that many in Jamaica rely on remittances from members of the diaspora to live According to a report from the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) remittances from the United States of America accounted for 72 3 percent of total foreign currency inflow in the first quarter of 2021, up from 69 5 percent in 2020 over the same timeframe The remittance totaled approximately US$804 3 million This support can take

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many forms including monetary transfers and supply barrels containing everything from essentials to Christmas gifts

Education is another priority for Dr. Adamson Lewis. “I am encouraging Jamaica to reprioritize STEAM – science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through virtual platforms,” she asserts She explains that the ever increasing penetration of affordable digital devices will mean a computer can be in every child's pocket If there's a computer, then there's also a teacher, she reasons “If we can go back to those core classes, we can empower young people to create jobs, sustainability and generate income ” To complement this initiative, she plans to introduce the Birthright Program – which focuses on foreign born Jamaicans to provide them with scholarship and employment opportunities

For Dr Adamson Lewis, another priority is the Jamaican healthcare system “Health care is my baby,” she smiles “If I can facilitate the medical field, particularly the nurses, it will benefit everyone ” Her strategies include increasing the prevalence of remote diagnosis to reduce travel for both patients and practitioners, and promoting technological advancement within the field to ease the tremendous burden on Jamaican healthcare professionals

As a liaison between governments, Dr Adamson Lewis intends to invoke PL 114 291, also known as the United States Caribbean Strategic Engagement Act In broad strokes, its policy declares that the United States will seek to increase engagement with the governments of the Caribbean region, which includes Jamaica, with the development of both the civil and private sectors This multi layered act has provisions for economic development, crime reduction, diversifying energy sources, and prioritizing human rights “If we can put education, job creation, and PL 114 291 into strong gear, we can minimize the probability of crime,” she expounds

Dr Adamson Lewis is ready for action “I'm finding attainable, measurable goals, within variable timelines – short term and long term – so that we can implement them and observe what works and what does not,” she outlines “I do not just want to talk, I want to have purposeful intervention and implementation, with checks and balances ”

Adamson Lewis

Bermuda to scrap controversial travel form

The Bermuda government plans to drop a controversial Travel Authorization (TA) form imposed during the coronavirus pandemic three weeks earlier than previously announced

On Friday, the government said the TA's elimination will be effective November 13, saying the move will “streamline the overall travel experience for visitors” Previously the government said the TA form would end on November 30

It means the US$40 fee, along with proof of vaccination or medical insurance, will end on that date

From November 14, the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) is to reinstate the Bermuda arrival card, a digital form for visitors only, which was in place before the pandemic

The card captures visitor data, generating tourism statistics for the country and provides visitors, who opt in, with relevant, timely communications to enhance their stay It is meant to be completed before travel to the island

Tourism Minister Vance Campbell, said: “Our government has delivered on our pledge to protect the health and safety of our residents and visitors, and now with the earlier end date for the

US Coast Guard transfers Caribbean nationals to The Bahamas

The United States Coast Guard on Wednesday said the crew of its cutter Manowar transferred six nationals of The Bahamas, Jamaica, and Cuba to The Bahamas earlier this week following a rescue near Lake Worth Inlet, Florida

A Chinese was also among those rescued

The US Coast Guard said Cutter Resolute's crew alerted Sector Miami watch standers of a suspected smuggling venture Sunday at about

12 miles east of Lake Worth Inlet

Two people were taken into custody by US Homeland Security Investigations for further questioning, said the US Coast Guard, adding that no injuries were reported

“The Coast Guard and our partners continue to patrol the Florida Straits, and Windward and Mona passages to help prevent loss of life,” said Lieutenant Commander Mark Cobb, an enforcement officer with the US

Guyanese Media worker dies after boat capsizes

One media worker was killed, and several others injured Tuesday after a boat transporting workers and communication personnel from the Office of the President capsized in the Pomeroon River, situated between the Orinoco and the Essequibo rivers.

Cameraman, Trevor Patrick, 48, was attached to a television station in Essequibo and was undergoing training with Radio Essequibo

Media reports said the boat carrying the workers was reportedly a short distance behind the one carrying the presidential delegation when it suddenly flipped over, throwing all occupants overboard

The other occupants, including an information officer and two cameramen attached to the president’s office, were all pulled out of the river by the occupants of another boat that was in the area at the time

Patrick was pulled from the river in an unconscious state and taken to the Charity Hospital where he was pronounced dead The other injured persons taken to the city where they underwent additional medical checks, according to the Head of the President’s PR Unit, Suelle Findlay Williams

President Ali was in the lower Pomeroon area on a visit to flood affected communities He has since met with the widow of the cameraman who died

Burt

Coast Guard Seventh District “Taking to the seas on rustic makeshift vessels, without safety gear or lifesaving equipment, is extremely dangerous,” he added

Burt

Berkeley Campbell continues on C1 – Controversial Travel Form

Jamaica launches two-week gun amnesty

Jamaica has implemented a 14 day gun amnesty which will begin on Wednesday, November 5th

The announcement in the House of Representatives came as the new Firearms Prohibition and Restriction Act, which provides for penalties of 15 years to life in prison, took effect on Tuesday

It also came on the same day that Police Commissioner Major General Antony Anderson disclosed that 652 illegal firearms had been seized since January, representing an 11 percent increase over the same period last year

Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang said the November 5 19 amnesty will allow persons in possession of illegal or unregistered firearms and ammunition to surrender the weapons without the fear of prosecution

He said it was not only criminals who are being encouraged to turn in their guns

“There are individuals who may have inherited a firearm from a grandfather or uncle who may have had it locked in a safe and just had not paid any attention to it

“There might also be young men living in a tough community who are honest, hard working individuals; they might have applied for a firearm license and they didn't get it, acquired a firearm with no intention of committing a criminal act, and therefore find themselves exposed We are providing an opportunity for them to surrender the firearm,” the national security minister said

He warned that once the amnesty expires, the full force of the law will be applied to anyone found in possession of an illegal firearm or ammunition

In his contribution, Opposition Leader Mark Golding called for a register to be established when a weapon is surrendered and a receipt generated for that weapon with its specifics, including serial number and make

“Right now, it just says go in and hand in a weapon, and there is no paperwork around that and there is no accountability It may be that there is an intention to implement that operationally, but I would have thought that the order itself would have required it,” he said Chang

Testing to be done for presence of potentially serious respiratory virus in Jamaica

Jamaica's National Public Health Laboratory through the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is conducting testing to detect the presence of the potentially serious Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) within the population

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton said this has become necessary because of the emergent issue of increasing respiratory illnesses that have led to overcrowding at the Bustamante Hospital for Children and the Spanish Town Hospital

RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild flu like symptoms, and most people recover within a week However, it may cause serious illness, especially in young children and the elderly, who may be affected by bronchiolitis (inflammation of the airways in the lungs) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs) It may also worsen chronic lung diseases, such as asthma

The Epidemiological Surveillance System has indicated that Jamaica is in the influenza season, evidenced by the fact that Severe Acute Respiratory Illnesses (SARI) have passed the

seasonal threshold Dr Tufton said during the four weeks from September 25 to October 22, the number of SARI admissions rose from four to 19 This represents a more than 400 percent increase in the reported admissions at sentinel sites

“The increased SARI admissions are mainly among children and, in particular, children younger than six months old and those two to four years old Over the last two weeks, admissions were significantly greater than usually observed,” he said

“Whereas the Bustamante Hospital for Children would usually admit four SARI cases per week at this time of year, in the last few weeks, they admitted approximately 13 children for SARI in each week This has resulted in an increasing number of cases of SARI admissions to the Bustamante Hospital for Children ”

The minister informed that the current report from the Bustamante Hospital is that medical wards are above capacity at 111 percent. Additionally, there are at least an average of six

patients in the Accident and Emergency Department awaiting admission nightly

“This has worsened our current staffing challenges and has significantly impacted the work environment within the facility Of note, is that Spanish Town Hospital is also seeing a significant increase in admissions and overcrowding,” he stated

The occupancy of the pediatric wards has been persistently greater than 100 percent Admissions increased by 53 percent, with 98 patients in August and 150 in September Over the last four weeks, there has been a significant increase in the daily pediatric respiratory/asthmatic cases at the hospital

Dr Tufton said the Health and Wellness Ministry has noted the international trends in respiratory illnesses, especially among children

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EMERITUS

South Floridians should be breathing a huge sigh of relief that the barrage of political advertisements that has cluttered their television viewing for the past three months, the irritating political emails, text messages and robocalls is done Another fiercely contested general election is over Now it's time to heal the divisions that politics have brought upon the community

elections Yet, whenever these elections are called, time and time again large percentages of voters refuse to vote but continue to complain about their political representatives or parties On November 8 too many people refused to vote

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Andrew Karim akarim@cnweeklynews.com

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Dr. Garth A. Rose grose@cnweeklynews.com editor@cnweeklynews.com

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The call for unity and healing is nothing new It follows almost every general election This most recent election again revealed the sharp differences between Republicans and Democrats in America Since 2016, the divisions have become more profound and acrimonious, negatively penetrating the atmosphere at the workplace, in neighborhoods and even within families

It may be hard for younger generations of Floridians to understand that in the 1980s and 90s politics in Florida was a relatively civil, friendly affair Many immigrants coming from then political volatile nations like Jamaica and Haiti were thrilled at the refreshing atmosphere of political campaigns in the US People from different political parties could sit and discuss politics without rancor, and people of different political parties would amicably drive together to polling places to cast votes for their respective candidates

All that has changed. Democrats have come to turn against Republicans and vice versa In a West Kendall community, a Caribbean American family of registered Democrats was taunted by their Republican neighbors as these neighbors celebrated Republican victories on Tuesday night

RECOGNIZES

Through Internet search it's relatively easy to ascertain the political registration of homeowners living within communities Because of this, families registered to specific political parties are sometimes shunned It's a similar situation when people of a minority race move into neighborhoods dominated by another race

This situation needs to end People cannot allow politics to turn them into enemies Politicians will always present different ideologies, policies, and strategies This has been

so for centuries globally But the ironic thing about politics is that the party that assumes the power of government often passes legislation that affects the entire community

When the Republican administration during the COVID pandemic in 2020 approved funds to assist citizens facing financial difficulties, this benefitted entire communities, and people of differing political persuasions The same thing happened when the Biden administration also approved similar funding in 2021 It would be hard to find anyone who refused to accept these funds based on their political preference

In a democracy, which America still is, there's a proven method to protest against policies of political parties who people believe aren't representing their best interest This strategy is city, county, state, and federal

While everyone who is eligible to vote should be encouraged to do so when an election comes around, no one should be forced to vote for particular candidates, or parties And certainly, no one should be abused or discriminated against because they didn't vote for a preferred candidate or party

The progress of communities is hindered when citizens continue to perpetuate political divisions Communities are called communities because they are supposed to share common goals including good schools for children, effective policing, good roads, reliable water and sewage systems, attractive recreational facilities, and competent medical services Communities cannot thrive without these facilities, and these facilities cannot thrive within a sharply divided community

It may not be easy to heal political divisions within communities. To some this is too idealistic But a real attempt should be made Politics isn't going away In two years, there'll be another likely contentious general and presidential election It won't be long before the political advertisement and fuss and bother returns People should accept they are living in an aggressive political environment, and, nonetheless, be willing to accept that persons will cast their ballot who they want to vote for Florida maybe glowing ruby red today, but this should not sharpen the divide between supporters of the two parties Nothing is wrong with Democrats seeking to reassert their effectiveness, or Republicans trying to maintain theirs The best way to gain and maintain political relevance is to vote, not by hating

Let this be a time to heal DIABETES

It has been proven in the past that people of different political persuasions can live in harmony This harmonious environment should be the goal, even as voters prepare to vote peacefully next time

The 20th anniversary event of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival will be held on Sunday, November 13 at Miramar Regional Park, from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm

The ultimate Caribbean cultural event merging food, music, and entertainment for a one of a kind experience, the festival once again welcomes its title sponsor Grace Foods, which has held the premium sponsor position since 2009 “Being the title sponsor, presents us with an opportunity to showcase our brand, introduce new products, interact with the festival goers and play a part in all the day's entertainment and activities,” says Donna Callender, community outreach officer at Grace Foods (USA)

Grace Foods is often referred to as the international king of jerk “This title is fitting,” Callender notes “We are the best tasting, authentic jerk available in several key international hubs around the world ” The role also makes the company the perfect match for the jerk festival, which is the largest food festival in the Uni

Features of this year's festival includ food court offering a variety of jerk cuis dishes, the Publix Culinary Pavilion whic chefs and celebrities in competition, the W Cultural Stage, an arts and crafts village, a party zone Musical acts on the main s include Tarrus Riley, Christopher Mar Romain Virgo , Mystic Marley and Baby Cham, to name a few This year, Grace is celebrating its

100th year anniversary, and will make the event a special commemorative affair “Expect an impressive presence throughout the festival In our Grace Village there will be mouthwatering savory bites, primarily using our jerk line of products, as well as some of our other popular products, along with some new ones Festival goers will have the opportunity to win prizes and gift boxes with Grace products and premiums,” Callender reveals

According to festival CEO, Eddy Edwards, “With our

title sponsor Grace Foods celebrating its 100th anniversary our team will be pulling out all the stops to stage an exceptional event ”

The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival merges food, music, and entertainment, and hosts over 15,000 attendees who embark on a cultural Caribbean experience like no other

Popular Jamaican restaurant Kingston Delight, will make its 19th appearance at this year's annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, which will be held at the Miramar Regional Park on November 13.

The longstanding restaurant is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year as one of the oldest Caribbean restaurants in North Miami Beach

Kingston Delight specializes in all things Jamaican cuisine. “We give you 100% Jamaican island style,” boasts Donovan Thompson, the owner of Kingston Delight. He reinforces the statement with raw Jamaican dialect, “A nuh hospital we ah cook fah; we ah cook fah people who want to lick dem fingah ”

Thompson says the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is one of the highlights on Kingston Delight's annual calendar. While the festival has garnered a reputation for brave and experimental offerings such as jerk ice cream, Kingston Delight offers traditional jerk dishes made with high quality, authentic ingredients “We go to the Jerk Pit in Jamaica to get the good ingredients, because we ah go kill dem at the Jerk Festival,” jokes Thompson

According to Thompson, the festival is an incredible and must attend event for anyone curious about Jamaican food. “If you want a beautiful day hanging out with your family, you have to come to the jerk festival,” backing up his statement again with a bit of Jamaican humor “All if you and your cousin vex and you nah talk, this day ah go mek unnu mek up back,” he smiles

This year's event will mark the 20 year anniversary of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival

The Partners For Youth Foundation returns as an official charity partner of the upcoming Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival

A pillar in the South Florida area, Partners For Youth focuses on the emotional, social, academic, and cultural development of children and adolescents in South Florida's Jamaican diaspora, and in Jamaica The foundation was started over 30 years ago as a finishing service for children and adolescents who emigrated to the United States and suffered from culture shock Partners For Youth has evolved over the years to include the annual Miss Jamaica Florida pageant, which focuses on personhood over beauty, as well as scholarships that have propelled recipients into lucrative careers from medicine to law and everything in between, and seminars touching on sensitive and important topics such as mental health and navigating the perils of social media

Under charismatic chairman Steve Higgins, Partners For Youth has big plans for the upcoming jerk festival “Partners for Youth will be large, in charge, and noticeable,” proclaims Higgins “You'll see us in our tents with our branded polo shirts, helping patrons learn what they need to know about our culture ”

Also a tenor soloist, musician, public

“

speaker, actor, director and producer, Higgins has made a name for himself as an ambassador of Jamaican folk culture, particularly within the realm of music He has traveled to five continents teaching members of the Jamaican diaspora, and the Jamaica curious alike, songs of old Higgins says he is bringing a similar energy to the festival where the foundation's main theme will be passing on classic Jamaican games to the younger generations “I'm talking bull in the pen, dandy shandy, brown girl in the ring,” Higgins excitedly lists off a handful of the games he plans on teaching “A lot of these things we clearly have lost, because my interviewer doesn't even know them,” he exclaims, pointedly

The Partners for Youth Foundation is a 501(C)(3) non profit organization

Partners for Youth is the non the annual can Jerk portion of proceeds e Anthony ship Fund nitiatives b y t h e

This year's Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival will bring back the '90s in a big way, through an official musical tribute featuring three popular Jamaican DJs: Richie D, Supa Twitch and House Arrest

This tribute to the '90s will be a truly exciting celebration of the heyday of sound system culture After all, food and music go hand in hand

Richie D, who is known as the “the girls' cherry tree,” has been spinning records for over 33 years Also a talented producer, Richie D was considered by many to be among the best of the 90s “He played at the club that everyone used to sneak out to when they were teenagers,” laughs Roy Martin, the coordinator of the '90s tribute Supa Twitch specializes in dancehall and seamlessly mixes it with club sounds The veteran selector has been going strong for over 34 h is known for rom the mic is

est The ''Soca n the realms of wn for holding s well A House l house, Martin

Jamaican Jerk o years As the entire festival on ill be held on r Regional Park

When you think of jerk, what comes to mind is meat marinated in pepper and spices, then cooked on the grill until charred to perfection. Candacee Rakem plans on challenging this notion.

Rakem and her all natural company, Things Vegetarian, will not only be making her debut at the upcoming Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival on November 13 at the Miramar Regional Park, but will also be the festival's first vegan vendor

As Rakem notes, “It's ital, not vegan ” Ital cuisine is a Rastafarian cultural staple, referring to a plant based lifestyle Rakem sees her jerk offerings as a combination of different aspects of Jamaican heritage –it's Rastafarian cuisine with Maroon preparation It echoes the origins of jerk itself, where Maroons learned how to spice and preserve their food from indigenous Jamaicans, Tainos, giving birth to the legendary practice

But what of the food itself? Rakem and Things Vegetarian are pulling out all the stops Her ital steamers are sure to be show stoppers The dish features mushrooms and chickpeas wrapped in seaweed and rice paper, and then baked Afterward, it's topped with a coconut curry jerk sauce In addition, there will be pumpkin rounds garnished with an orange pineapple jerk sauce, pumpkin soup, and even vegan bun and cheese And, that's just scratching the surface on the special menu, Rakem notes

Rakem knows her food is good enough to turn heads Her mission is to clue people into the healing power of food, and how making the transition to an ital, gluten free, soy free, and preservative free life, is simpler than they may think The food gets you in the door, Rakem says, but she hopes to also help people transform and, ultimately, change their lives for the better, through a holistic lifestyle

WatchDeJerk

This year, the organizers of the annual G Jamaican Jerk Festival are pulling out a stops for their 20th anniversary with a n YouTube show, Watch De Jerk. The sho give patrons the latest scoop on the festi leading up to its November 13 event dat

This year's event, which will be held at Miramar R marks the triumphant return from a two year, pandemic in The time away gave the team space to think about how festival to best serve the needs of the patrons. It was durin that the concept for Watch De Jerk was born

Host of Watch De Jerk, Jody Ann Gray, says viewers see the inner workings of the festival on the show Lead event, Gray will interview acts slated to perform, and developments such as the festival's groundbreaking NFT T be artiste and behind the scenes interviews to drum up e the event, which happens to be the biggest Caribbean food United States

“We are the original and best Caribbean food festival i Gray explains, noting that the festival has cultivated patronage over the years The Youtube show, she explain one stop hub for information about the festival

On the day of the festival, Watch De Jerk will be captu lineup, live and direct “Most people come to the festival wi of buying food and watching the main stage, but there's m do,” Gray notes The YouTube show will help to bridge the those on the ground experiencing the event, and supporte world who want to participate remotely

Watch De Jerk will bring all of the splendor of the lege into people's homes, in high definition, so they won't miss a

The festival's trailblazing app is spearheaded by Allied Technologies, one of the outsourced developers in the field of pragmatic business solutions The app will not only augment the festival experience, but create a portal for anyone curious or excited about the festival to stay plugged in year round

Marie McMorris, business development manager for the festival, thinks the app will be a major boon for all patrons, and represents a multifront technological evolution for the event Features of festivals that we take for granted can now be deftly navigated, she explains For example, patrons can buy festival tickets via the app, and food from vendors such as Boston Jerk can be ordered ahead of time, up to weeks before the festival begins The app will also push notifications about the various vendors and even what's happening on the different stages during the event McMorris says this will ramp up patron participation and enjoyment, and allow for fewer deadlocks in lines

To top it off, to commemorate the event's 20 years, patrons with the app will receive a unique Jerk Festival NFT (non fungible token) A collaboration between Jungle Lab and legendary Jamaican artist Lisa Remeny, this NFT will be unique artwork by the artist that will be exclusive to patrons with the app who attend the festival

The festivals' app and NFT represent a leap of ingenuity and forward movement among Caribbean events across the region It's a move the festival team is particularly proud of

They say you cannot teach an old dog new tricks but the executive team behind the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival would beg to differ The legendary festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary on November 13 and has debuted its complementary mobile, Jamaican Jerk Festival app and accompanying NFT .

The Cultural Stage has always been a much loved part of the legendary, annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, which will be returning to Florida this year after a two year hiatus. The event will be held on November 13 at the Miramar Regional Park in Miramar, Florida

During the early years of the festival, the Cultural Stage began as a stall selling familiar produce that brought Jamaicans back to their island homeland The set up included a display of indigenous Jamaican ground provisions, fruits, and vegetables, while also educating children on their heritage, while reminding traditional upbringing

Today, the team behind the Culture Sta much more lavish production that celebrat rich history and diverse culture This year, experience will be woven more deeply into a the event As soon as patrons walk into the will be surrounded by culture immediately “ vibes to begin right then and there,” expla Edwards, head of the festival's cultural dep The entrance itself will be lined with far selling their wares, as well as artisans peddlin their craft and entertainers performing

The Cultural Stage itself will be headline by the Tallawah Mento Band, who will perform classic mento pieces and original compositions, and the Sasa African Dance Theatre, who will perform creole fusion dances and drum circles The emcee will be famous Jamaican personality Christopher 'Johnny' Daley, who is a longtime mainstay of the festival

Prohibited items

Weapons

Large

Disability Access & Accommodations

We want to make sure that all food lovers have access to the Jerk Festival experience. Special needs patrons call 786-361-1103 or visit our website at www.JerkFestival.com

Kids at Jerk Festival

Coming to the Jerk Festival with a youngster in tow? Children aged 10 and under are admitted FREE if accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. There is no limit on the number of kids per adult, within the discretion of the front gate staff

Heat Relief

Heatstroke is not cool. Drink lots of water. Wear sunscreen.

Safety & Medical

All persons attending the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival do so at their own risk. No liability is assumed by Event producers,managers,promoters,sponsors,orothersassociatedwiththeEvent.

By attending, you give the Jerk Festival the right to videotape and/or photograph any and all activities, events, and performances within the festival site, including all attendees and patrons and the right to use your photo, likeness, and voicecapturedonvideoorphotographyinanymannertopromotetheJerkFestival.

Reproductions of the Festival's name or logo are strictly prohibited. Violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent ofthelaw

Duetoartist'srequests,absolutelynovideocamerasofanykindareallowedintheFestivalconcertarea.

To Keep the Jerk Fest safe and healthy, Event ofcials ask that you report any violations to the above policies to either the Jerk Festival security or any uniformed ofcers on site and to assist in helping to keep the Festival grounds clean in usingavailablereceptacles.

We are making every effort to create a safe environment on the festival grounds, including public and private security and medical staff. If you need any assistance, seek out the medical tent, or look for a festival staff member

Lost & Found

During the Festival, look for lost items at the Lost & Found booths at the Corporate Circle. After the Festival, you can inquire about lost items here. Valuables will be held for 30 days and then donated to a local charity. Jamaican Jerk Festival USA, Inc. will not be held liable for any unclaimed items.

Suspect arrested for impersonating BSO Deputies Scamming victims thousands of dollars

A man suspected of impersonating Broward Sheriff's Office employees and using the agency's credibility to scam multiple individuals out of tens of thousands of dollars has been arrested

In late October, following a weeks long investigation, BSO detectives served an arrest warrant on Raquan Hardy, who is in jail out of state on similar charges The investigation began in early September after a phone scam surfaced in Broward County where an individual spoofed a BSO Courthouse Control Room phone number, contacted victims, and claimed to be a current BSO deputy

The scammer informed victims that there were active warrants for their arrest The scammer told victims that they needed to pay a surety bond in cash through a bail bond company to avoid arrest on outstanding

charges The arrest warrants did not exist

According to investigators, at least four victims fell prey to the scam, handing over more than $50,000 to Hardy between September 7 and 10 Overall, BSO detectives received more than 20 reports from multiple individuals, mostly female medical professionals, who were contacted by the scammer in early September

Once alerted to the scam, BSO Dania Beach District detectives, along with BSO's Public Corruption Unit, immediately opened an investigation and soon learned that similar crimes had recently occurred in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania Through investigative means, BSO detectives developed Hardy as a suspect in the Broward County cases and learned that he was in South Florida in the days before the scam began However, before they could locate him in South Florida, Hardy fled to

Georgia

BSO detectives eventually tracked Hardy to Dallas and began working with authorities there While in Texas, police conducted a traffic stop on Hardy and arrested him on a warrant for similar crimes in Pennsylvania Following his arrest in Texas, Hardy was extradited to Pennsylvania

On October 19, a Broward County judge signed an arrest warrant for Hardy for crimes committed in Broward County Hardy faces a total of 21 counts related to the phone scam, including an organized scheme to defraud, grand theft, impersonating a law enforcement officer, extortion, and criminal use of personal identification information The total bond for the 21 counts is $900,000

The investigation into Hardy's crimes and whether anyone assisted him is ongoing

COVID-19 vaccine proof still required for non-US citizens entering the country

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), has extended its COVID 19 vaccine proof requirement for non U S , nonimmigrant citizens trying to enter the United States

With this latest TSA directive, the United States is the only western country and among the few remaining countries in the world still to require such proof for entry

The directive states that effective to at least January 8, 2023, aircraft operators must require each non U S , nonimmigrant citizen to present a paper or digital documentation for “proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID

19,” or documentation proving the person is excepted from taking the vaccine, before boarding a flight to the United States

A “nonimmigrant” means not a U S citizen, U S national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), being fully vaccinated means having had an accepted single dose vaccine or a second dose of an accepted two dose series at least 14 days ago

A booster dose is not needed to meet the requirement

It comes after the Biden administration in June dropped its requirement for air travelers entering the United States to test negative for COVID 19, meaning a person with the disease could still be allowed into the country, provided they have proof of vaccination

While the vast majority of countries have dropped COVID 19 vaccine proof requirements for entry, the United States and a few other countries around the world continue to require them for non-citizens, with no alternate avenues for the unvaccinated such as requiring proof of immunity against COVID-19, a negative test, or a quarantine period instead

Controversial Travel Form

TA, travel to Bermuda will be simpler for our visitors ”

Tracy Berkeley, the interim chief executive officer at BTA added: “Bermuda's tourism industry fully supports the decision to eliminate the TA and bring the island's public health emergency orders to an end

“We are especially appreciative of our partners in the Ministry of Health for the collaborative approach to solving our shared challenges This is exciting news that will help to restore a frictionless travel experience for our visitors ”

Stephen Todd, the chief executive officer at the Bermuda Hotel Association said: “Bermuda's hoteliers are thrilled with the decision to end the TA three weeks early

“This move comes at a crucial time before the US Thanksgiving travel period This is a time when we anticipate welcoming visitors looking to take advantage of the current fall into winter promotions. It should also support demand in time for the return of three additional direct flights from Miami, JFK, and Toronto ”

Premier David Burt initially said the TA form — which had to be completed by visitors and returning residents alike — would continue until next spring It is expected to rake in more than US$20 million for government coffers, with the current fee down from the original $75

The opposition One Bermuda Alliance had long called for the form to be scrapped, with former premier Michael Dunkley claiming it was a stealth tax Leading restaurateur Philip Barnett said the government had scored “ an own goal” with its testing requirements the message they are giving you ”

Some Jamaican candidates successful, others fare poorly in midterm elections

There were mixed results in Tuesday’s mid term elections in the United States for the Jamaican candidates after some came out victorious while others running for Congress were unsuccessful

During the mid term elections, all 435 seats in the US House of Representatives were up for grabs while 35 of the 100 seats in the Senate were contested

Wes Moore, an African American of Jamaican heritage, became the new governor of Maryland, becoming the first black person to be elected to the post

He defeated Dan Cox, a Donald Trump backed Republican candidate

Moore, a businessman, author, philanthropist, and veteran, is the third African American to be elected governor of a state in the United States

Florida Turns Red

South, and the rest of, Florida on Tuesday

If the Democratic Party is to regain the strong footing it had in Florida, particularly South Florida, it has a lot of work to do to drive more voters, especially the increasing number of Hispanic immigrants to register as Democrats, and then find some way of motivating registered Democrats to vote

Mixed results for Caribbean American Candidates

Several Caribbean Americans in Florida were elected office in Tuesday's elections and while there certainly are victories to be celebrated, unfortunately, some of the results were very disappointing

Although highly touted to win the mayoral

race in the City of Lauderhill, Jamaican American Richard Campbell lost in his bid to unseat incumbent Mayor Ken Thurston Also disappointing were the losses sustained by Jamaican American Circuit Court candidates Tania Marie Williams and Tamar Hamilton, and Broward County Court candidate Suzette Hyde In the City of Tamarac, Haitian American Mike Gelin lost in his bid to unseat incumbent Mayor Michelle Gomez

The winners circle included: Haitian American Sheila Cerefilus McCormick who retained her US Congressional seat in District 20 Other winners included Jamaican American Jeff Holness who won the Broward County School District Seat 5 contest: Haitian

He is also a Rhodes Scholar endorsed by Oprah Winfrey, US President Joe Biden, and former president Barack Obama

On the other hand, other Jamaicans running for Congress like Karen Green did not fare very well

Green lost to her Republican opponent in Florida’s Congressional District 7 At the same time, Jackie Gordon lost to her Republican opponent in New York’s 2nd Congressional District

Carla Spalding, who ran in Florida’s 25th Congressional District, was also unsuccessful

However, Congresswoman, Yvette Clarke still holds her Brooklyn 9th Congressional seat Shelia Jackson Lee of Texas also retained her seat

Stacy Plascette of the United States Virgin Islands was also re elected to Congress, along with Sheila Cherfilus McCormick of Haitian heritage who represents Florida’s 20th Congressional District

American Samson Burgelin, winner of the mayoral vote in the City of North Lauderdale; Jamaican American Mark Anthony Spencer and Sharon Thomas winners of seats 1 and 2 respectively on the City of Lauderdale Lakes Commission; Jamaican American Denise Grant with over 80 percent of the votes in the City of Lauderhill District 4 race; Jamaican Americans Morey Wright and Kacia Daniels winners of Commission Seats 2 and 4 respectively in the City of Tamarac, and Dr Katrina Touchstone winner of Seat I on the City of West Park Commission

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Wes Moore celebrating his victory becoming the rst African American to be elected governor of Maryland AP Photo

Cherlus McCormick

Spice Clears the Air

Jamaican dancehall artiste Spice has broken her silence about her health condition in a post on Instagram

The artiste addressed rumors circulating on social media a few days ago that she was in a coma following post op surgery complications in the Dominican Republic

The dancehall queen began her message by thanking Jesus for saving her life

Hey besties, I’m in a better space today to properly update you on my current health situation. I suffered a damage hernia a few days ago that sent my body into sepsis, as a result i was rushed to the hospital ”

The artiste highlighted that she has been off social media for a while to rest mentally and had no idea that it was being said she had a heart attack, was in a coma and that she died and proceeded to set the record straight

Rihanna

“None of that is true However, I’m still recovering from what really happened so thanks so much for all the prayers and concerns, please take great care of yourself, eat, live, love, laugh, like its your last day, I love you all so so much ”

She continued, “And yuh dun know Gracie always ago be herself, so i guess this is no more jumping off a speaker boxes for me,” making light of the situation at hand

Though she is in recovery mode, Spice proceeded to apologize

to party promoters who had her booked for events “To all party promoters that has a confirmed booking with me please accept my humble apology Cayman i know you was up next, for the 25th of this month, however I’ll see you at a later date ”

A number of colleagues and fans have since left their heartfelt wishes for the artiste on her post

“Spice upppp GodaGod Hurry up n gud again d fans dem cyah do without yuh,” wrote dancehall artiste Dexta Daps

Social media influencer Quite Perry wrote “You were heavily in my prayers! Speedy recovery!!”

Fashion model Winnie Harlow also commented on Spice’s post saying “Jesussssss!!! One thing about prayerrrr Praise himmmmm Grace yuh had us a bawlllll!! So happy you ’ re okay my love!! Heal up, rest up! You’re blessed and highly favoured

Born Grace Hamilton- Spice is known for a slew of hit songs, including such as So Mi Like It, Sheet, Indicator, Fight Over Man, and Ramping Shop featuring Vybz Kartel

The Grammy nominated queen of dancehall recently released her album, Emancipated, which debuted at Number 7 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart Her debut album 10 was nominated for Best Reggae Album last year

In addition to her catalogue of accomplishments, Spice is also a brand ambassador for Magnum Tonic Wine In recent years, Spice has expanded her brand outside the realms of dancehall She is a co star in the VH1 reality series Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, and has launched her own clothing line, Graci Noir

Tyrone Downie, pianist for The Wailers has died

Tyrone Downie, a loyal member of the iconic Jamaican band Bob Marley and The Wailers, died in Kingston on Saturday at age 66. The Wailers disclosed the pianist's passing on the band's official Facebook page but did not disclose a cause of death.

"It is with great sadness and a heavy heart from the news that The Wailers' own keyboard player, brother, and friend Tyrone Downie passed away today Tyrone joined The Wailers just before the age of 20, making his recording début with the band on Rastaman Vibration When you hear the keys on Three Little Birds [and many others hits], you should always think

of Tyrone The Wailers and friends would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to Tyrone's family Rest in Power Tyrone #RestinPower #TyroneDownie," the statement read Downie studied at Kingston College and joined The Wailers in the mid 1970s, making his recording début with the band on Rastaman Vibration, having previously been a member of the Impact All Stars It was while at KC that he played his first recording session on Eric Donaldson's Cherry Oh Baby, which won the 1971 Festival Song Competition He played on every Marley studio album after Live!, including Exodus, and Kaya He remained a member of The Wailers following Marley's death in 1981, touring Europe and the United States

Nicknamed Organ D, Downie became one of the most in demand session musicians in Jamaica during the 1970s. He played with The Abyssinians, Beenie Man, Black Uhuru, Buju Banton, Peter Tosh, Junior Reid, Tom Tom Club, Ian Dury, Burning Spear, Steel Pulse, Alpha Blondy, Tiken Jah Fakoly and Sly & Robbie He resided in France and was a member of the touring band of Youssou N'Dour, whose album Remember he produced Downie released the solo album Organ D in 2001 Several members of the music fraternity have taken to social media to express their condolences at Downie's passing as they recognize the impact he had on Jamaica's musical landscape

Spice

Downie

WI Women renew rivalry with England

West Indies Women will host England Women in an eight match, white ball series starting next month, as they beef up preparations for next year ’ s Twenty20 World Cup in South Africa The tour will run from December 4 to 22 and will see a three match One Day International series, along with the first T20I, being played at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, and the remaining four T20 Internationals being played at Kensington Oval in Barbados

West Indies Women suffered clean sweeps in their last bilateral outings against England Women, going down 5 0 in their last T20 series three years ago and 3 0 in an ODI series four years ago

“We are really looking forward to this series against England It will be hugely important for us,” said West Indies Women captain Hayley Matthews

SOCCER

Former Barbados national player Kobe Shepherd shot and killed

Former Barbados national youth footballer Kobe Shepherd is among two people shot and killed in Bridgetown in the past 48 hours, police have confirmed

The police said Shepherd, 26, was shot on Sunday becoming the 36th murder recorded on the island since the start of the year

According to official reports Shepherd was outside his home when the incident occurred He was shot multiple times by a pillion on a motorcycle Shepherd was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital by a private vehicle but was pronounced dead on arrival He represented Barbados at the youth level and recently played for the University of the West Indies Blackbirds in the earlier rounds of the Republic Cup

Police are also investigating another murder following the death of a 47 year old man on Sunday night

Police said they had received a report around 10:15 p m that a man was seen with gunshot wounds The man later identified as Mark Anthony Armstrong collapsed and died after he ran into the Fairchild Street Terminal in the capital

ATHLETICS

“I’m hoping we can pick up some points in the ICC Women’s Championship as we take on a strong opposition at home

“We also have our eyes on the ICC T20 World Cup in South Africa It is always a big thing playing in a World Cup and this will be my first as captain so I will look to lead from the front

“We will go in looking to play really good cricket and give it all we have ”

The Caribbean side have been drawn in Group Two for the February 10 26 World Cup, alongside England, India, Pakistan, and Ireland

Group One comprises Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh

West Indies are currently in a period of turbulent form where they have won only two of their last ten ODI series and three of their last 10 T20I series

Keith Joseph is new CANOC president

Versed sports administrator Keith Joseph of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the new president of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC).

Joseph earned the majority of votes on the second and final day of the XX CANOC General Assembly, attended by 26 of the 30 member National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and Commonwealth Games Federations (CGFs)

Joseph campaigned on a record of achievement of the last CANOC executive, in which he served as the secretary general, highlighted by their successful staging of the 2022 Caribbean Games in Guadeloupe

The Games came off after a 13 year hiatus between the originally planned one – scheduled for 2009 in

Trinidad and Tobago – that was stymied by the H1N1 virus The 2022 edition too was postponed by one year due to the COVID 19 pandemic

Joseph won the presidency comfortably over his Jamaican challenger Christopher Samuda by a count of 17 9, successfully replacing former president Brian Lewis to serve the 2022 2026 term

Lewis himself got the nod from the membership to serve as the secretary general by a vote of 14 12 over Antigua and Barbuda's Cliff Williams The Virgin Islands' John Abraham conceded the first vice president post to the Cayman Islands' Carson Ebanks by 16 10, while Ytannia Wiggins of Barbados (18) and Guadeloupe's Alain Soreze (19) retained their executive member posts, beating Bruce Farara (14)

Edith Cox was returned unopposed as treasurer

The Joseph led administration will appoint a second vice president as the post was now tallied via nominations

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