National Weekly September 17, 2020

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Change or Die! Jamaica's PNPYO Serves Ultimatum to Peter Phillips

By Sheri-Kae McLeod

As the fallout in the People's National Party (PNP) continues following its general election defeat, party leader and leader of the opposition Peter Phillips was given an ultimatum to vacate his posts within 30 days.

The directive came from the party's youth organization PNPYO, who sent Phillips a letter, which has been made public.

In the letter, signed by PNPYO president Krystal Tomlinson, it stated that as the PNP enters its phase of reconstruction, the party must “acknowledge the ultimatum issued by the Jamaican electorate on September 3, 2020—change or die.”

The letter also stated the party must move with immediacy to “elect a new party president and leader of opposition before Local Government Elections are due in November.

The party must acknowledge the ultimatum issued by the Jamaican electorate on September 3, 2020—change or die.

continues on B4 – Ultimatum

BSO Launches Social Justice Task Force Following the wave of protests that swept the entire country earlier this year, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) formed a new social justice task force to help bring about positive changes within the organization.

At a press conference on Thursday, Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony said the creation of the task force comes from a new model and premise that he is pushing for the BSO; one of accountability, transparency and

inclusion.

The main goal of the group is to bring civic leaders from the county together so they can be a voice for residents in preventing problems and reforming policies, among other things.

“Having the community get involved in the activities that we’re

doing, the policies that we’re making, the engagements we’re trying to have — to earn and continue to keep the public’s trust,” said Tony.

He said that the creation of the task force is a response to the death of George Floyd, an African American man who was killed during an arrest in Minneapolis in continues on B4 BSO Task Force

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

DeSantis Cuts Support For Long-term Care Facilities

By CNW Reporter Even though Florida’s long-term care facilities have been allowed to accept visitors for two weeks now, some facilities in the state have not yet begun to do so due to “the lack of clear communication, standardized procedures and administrative support.”

This is according to the CEO of the Florida Assisted Living Association, Veronica Catoe.

On September 1, Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order to end the ban on visitors at long-term care facilities that had been in place since March. But while the facilities welcomed the executive order, Catoe said it brought about much confusion.

“Confusion among facilities comes from a lack of proactive communication with the impacted businesses prior to statements being released to the general public,” she said in a statement.

“This led to an influx of phone calls and requests to providers before they knew what was to be required of them. On top of that, the rule is complicated because it impacts a variety of businesses that are differentiated by their size, location and the types of residents they care for. The rule also allows for essential caregivers to not solely be someone who was providing care before, but includes anyone who wants to provide care now.”

She said that even after two weeks, some facilities are still not ready to accept visitors due to the guidelines set out by the governor in addition to their continued COVID-19 efforts.

“Many facilities are trying to finalize policies and procedures, as well as confirm staff trainings and schedules, all while continuing to provide regular care and services,” she stated, while also noting that providers were not consulted before the order went into place.

Catoe also decried the lack of protection continues on B4 – Cuts Support

WHAT’S INSIDE STRICTLY LEGAL

NAOMI OSAKA SCORES SECOND U.S. OPEN TITLE A3

GUYANA’S PRESIDENT WELCOMES VISIT FROM U.S. SECREATRY OF STATE A4

Court Orders State Department To Issue GREEN Card Lottery Visas B1

JACK WARNER RELEASED FROM HOSPITAL AFTER BEING TREATED FOR COVID-19 C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020

MEN OF HONOR: Broward County Mayor Dale V.C. Holness (right), the new honorary chair of the Jamaican Men of Florida, gives a socially distanced gree ng to emcee a orney Marlon Hill. They were at the organiza on’s third board mee ng and press conference to announce their new patron Oliver Mair, Consul General of Miami for Jamaica; honorary chair (Mayor Holness) and three honorary members, Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam, Episcopal minister Father Horace Ward and former Consul General Basil Bryan. - Photo by Danielle Domond

FRESH FACE: Gabriela Morris, at just 23 years old, becomes the youngestever Jamaican to be appointed as a senator. She was sworn in on Tuesday along with seven other women who were appointed to the Jamaican Senate. The Montego Bay na ve is a long me member of the People’s Na onal Party’s youth organiza on PNPYO and has been involved poli cs since she was a teenager. - Contributed

SPREADING THEIR WINGS: Elijah and Mikara Bell are all smiles at the opening of their new Wing Stop loca on located in Hollywood, Florida. The official launch to the public will be on Sunday, September 20, at 2438 Sheridan Street, Hollywood Florida. – Contributed

YUMMY!: Mikara Bell serves up an order of wings at her new Wing Stop loca on: – Contributed HONORARY MEMBER: Episcopal minister Father Horace Ward addresses a endees at the Jamaican Men of Florida’s third board mee ng where he was named an honorary member. Photo by Danielle Domond

PATRONAGE: Jamaican Consul General to Miami Oliver Mair (right), new patron for the Jamaican Men of Florida, shares a moment with Melvin Foster at the organiza on’s third board mee ng and press conference to announce new members. - - Photo by Danielle Domond

THE WING STOP: The loca on of Elijah and Mikara’s Wing Stop to be officially launched on Sunday September 20. – Contributed

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 –

A3

Naomi Osaka

Haitian-Japanese Tennis Star Scores Second US Open Title tennis player in the world, and Osaka was ranked number 406.

She continued to play in various tournaments trying to climb the tennis rankings. In 2016, she reached her first WTA final at the 2016 Pan Pacific Open in Japan to enter the top 50 of the WTA rankings.

Osaka made her breakthrough into the upper echelon of women's tennis in 2018 when she won her first WTA title at Indian Wells, becoming the youngest champion at the event in Holness ten years. With her first title, she became ranked No. 22 in the world. The following week, Osaka played at the Miami Open and extended her win streak by beating her childhood idol Serena Williams.

Later in the year, she again defeated Williams in the final of the U.S. Open to become the first Haitian or Japanese player to win a Grand Slam singles title. The match was marred by an oncourt dispute between Williams and the umpire highlighted by Williams receiving a game penalty. Osaka later described the win as "a little bit bittersweet.” Osaka received support from tennis fans around the world and the “bittersweet” win was her catalyst to becoming a household name.

Young Haitian-American tennis star, Naomi Osaka, 22, landed the third grand slam title of her career and second at the U.S. Open on Saturday, September 13, as she produced a brilliant fightback to deny Victoria Azarenka.

The Japanese player came from behind in the match to win 1-6 6-3 6-3 inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, becoming only the fifth player in the Open Era to win her first three finals at the majors.

Even just as important as her win, was the political statement made by Osaka throughout the tournament. In each match at this year's Open. She wore a mask bearing the name of a Black victim of alleged police or racist violence in the US. In order, Osaka honored Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain, Ahmaud Arbery, Trayvon Martin, George Floyd, Philando Castle and Tamir Rice.

Following her win, Osaka graciously acknowledged her ancestry which has fueled her to exceed expectations. "I would like to thank my ancestors because every time I remember their blood runs through my veins I am reminded that I cannot lose," tweeted the tennis star on Sunday.

In the short amount of time that Naomi Osaka has become a tennis superstar, she has seemingly found her footing; not only excelling at her craft but also being a vocal Black activist.

Osaka was born in Japan in 1997 to a Haitian father and a Japanese mother. Osaka's parents met when her father was visiting Hokkaido while he was a college student in New York.

When Osaka was three years old, her family moved from Japan to New York.

Her father, Leonard François, had always had a passion for tennis but never learned to play. As soon as his family settled in the United States, he began coaching Naomi and her older sister, Mari. Osaka's father was inspired to teach his daughters how to play tennis by watching the Williams sisters, Venus and Serena, compete at the 1999 French Open. He sought to emulate how Richard Williams trained his daughters to become two of the best

Young people were drastically undercounted in the 2010 U.S Census—which missed more than 1 in 10 children under the age of ve. In Broward County alone, we lost over $210 million dollars of federal funding because of people undercount.

Especially children.

When we fail to count children, the programs that support their wellbeing—such as childcare, schools, health insurance, housing, and public transportation — lose out on needed funds for the next 10 years, an entire childhood. So, be counted!

players in the world.

In 2006, Osaka's family moved to Florida so the girls would have better opportunities to train. Although Naomi moved around from various training academies in Florida, she also frequently practiced on the Pembroke Pines public courts.

During her junior tennis career, she competed in a only a handful of junior championship tours, which was unlike the average young tennis player. At the age of 14, she made her debut at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Women's Circuit, having skipped out on the junior international tour. She competed against her older sister twice—losing in a semi-finals to Mari and winning in another finals match.

Naomi came to prominence at age 16 when she defeated former U.S. Open champion Samantha Stosur in her Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour debut at the 2014 Stanford Classic. At the time, Stosur was ranked number the 19 female

Make sure everyone in your family is counted. You count!

We all count!

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In 2019, Osaka won the Australian Open championship, becoming the first woman to win consecutive Grand Slam singles titles since Serena Williams in 2015. Her victory also made her the first Asian to win 2 Grand Slam “singles” titles in a row. With a series of wins that year, she became the world No. 1 women's tennis player.

This year, Osaka also became the highest-paid female athlete in the world. The Japanese-Haitian athlete earned a total of US$37.4 million from prize money and endorsements between June 2019 and May 2020. Her earnings effectively overthrow Serena Williams, who's held the title for four years. Of course, she added to that total with her U.S. Open victory on September 12.

A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020

Opposition Leader In Belize Predicts High Turnout In November Election The leader of Belize main opposition People's United Party (PUP), John Briceño, believes there will be a high turnout of voters for the upcoming general election schedule for November.

While he admits the COVID-19 pandemic may have an effect on the polls, Briceño is nonetheless convinced that the voter turnout will be much higher than in Jamaica, where just 37 percent of the electorate cast ballots on September 3.

“I do believe that people will come out.

They will certainly come out a lot more than the 37 percent that Jamaica had, but it's important to point out that in 2016 Jamaica only had about 47 percent turned and we had in the high 70s. So I do expect a turnout in probably in the high 70s, in some instances in the low 80s.”

The ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) is seeking an unprecedented fourth consecutive term in office and Prime Minister Dean Barrow, who has already indicated that he is stepping down from active politics, is yet to announce a date for the poll, but have hinted it will be in November.

As of last Friday, the Elections and Boundaries Department received just over 8,500 applications for transfers during July and August.

Briceño said he is also concerned over reports that dozens of Indian students have registered to vote in the elections.

Opposition candidate Dolores Balderamos Garcia is claiming that the students should not be allowed to register to vote because they have no permanent tie to Belize.

Under Belize law, citizens of any Commonwealth country residing in Belize for no less than 12 months can register.

Balderamos Garcia says the applications of these students are being fast tracked for political gain. – CMC

COVID-19 Causing Food Shortages In Some Jamaican Households

by Sheri-Kae McLeod Food insecurity amid the coronavirus is a reality for many people in Jamaica, the United States and many other countries seriously impacted by lockdowns and its associated job loss and economic downturn. However, as leaders reopen their economies, food shortages persist—affecting children more severely.

An alarming report from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) shows that 45 percent of Jamaican households have experienced food shortages due to COVID-19 restrictions. This was felt more acutely felt in female-headed households, where 56 percent experienced food shortages from June to August.

The report stated that most households coped with food shortages by eating smaller meals or eating fewer meals per day.

“In any emergency, children are always the most vulnerable—but often we don’t have enough evidence to show the full extent to which they are affected,” said Mariko Kagoshima, UNICEF Jamaica Representative.

“It was critical for UNICEF to conduct this study so that we could examine various ways children are impacted and how the country can respond to better protect them.”

The shortages in households were as a result of the massive loss of jobs across virtually every sector in Jamaica during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. From March to midJune, the island had closed its borders to

tourists and implemented a series of lockdowns and curfews that resulted in the loss of thousands of jobs across the tourism and entertainment industries, which are among the most popular on the island.

UNICEF reported that approximately 80 percent of family households on the island suffered a reduction in income. Even more alarming is that one in every two households reported only having enough income or savings to sustain them for two weeks or less.

Remittances, stimulus provide some relief but not enough And as Jamaicans locally felt the economic pressure of COVID-19, so too were those in the diaspora. Over 30 percent of Jamaicans had

Guyana's President Welcomes Visit of US Secretary of State President Dr. Irfaan Ali has described as “extremely important” the visit later this week of the United States Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, to Guyana.

“I think his visit is at a key time especially when as a country, we are exploring various initiatives in accessing capital, ensuring that we have capital that is not only accessible but cheap capital or low-interest capital.

“We also have a transformative agenda that we want all to be involved in,” Ali said, noting that Washington is a key partner in Guyana's development.

A government statement issued on Monday said some of the areas of interest expected to be discuss include climate change,

private sector collaboration, local content, biodiversity, democracy and freedom as well as security and tackling the drug trade.

Pompeo is due to pay a two-day visit

Georgetown from Thursday and Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon has already indicated he intends to table a question in the National Assembly regarding Pompeo's visit. continues on B3 – Pompeo Visits Guyana

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 –

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A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020

EDITORIAL

Despite Fatigue, We Must Find The Will To Move Ahead It’s now going on seven months that the U.S. and so many other countries have been struggling to live with COVID-19. Despite efforts to prevent its spread, this stubborn pandemic continues to create severe illness, take lives, and rob us of the normalcy of life. We are growing increasingly weary, and it is affecting almost all aspects of our lives.

Psychologists, psychiatrists and many others have been sounding the alarm, reporting the significant negative effects COVID-19 is having on so many people’s mental health. The disease has virtually erased some of the normal lifestyle outlets that would have allowed people to cope with life’s stresses and challenges.

Currently, there is relatively little normal activity outside the home. Most sporting events are closed to fans and although some restaurants are opening to limited capacity, many people are not confident enough to risk dining in. Movie theaters are mostly closed and bars, a popular stress-relieving venue, are very limited in their service—if they are even allowed to operate. In many states, students—from kindergarten to college—are forced to learn from home on online portals, deprived of social interaction on campuses. And, millions of people seeking refuge and fellowship in church are unable do so, as several churches remain closed or are limited to significantly fewer parishioners.

With no definitive end in sight for the pandemic, and news of daily spikes in contamination and deaths, people become increasingly weary. As the fatigue sets in and people yearn for normalcy, more of us are willing to ignore mask wearing and social distancing, notwithstanding the risk of death hovering about us.

P.O.Box 551712 Davie, FL 33355 advertising@cnweeklynews.com www.cnweeklynews.com

MANAGING EDITOR Dr. Garth A. Rose grose@cnweeklynews.com Indirectly, the pandemic is creating problems that are increasing weariness, which psychologists are also cautioning is sparking a sharp increase in suicides and domestic violence.

Because of the impact on job and income security, a large percentage of the community is experiencing severe financial hardships. Many are unable to pay rent, as eviction and homelessness loom, and many more are unable to feed themselves and their families. The food-distribution car lines that stretch for miles at several locations across South Florida is evidence of the dire food insecurity crisis.

To compound the issue, we’re in the middle of a contentious political season, and the fatigue spilling over from COVID-19 is causing apathy among some voters.

The recent general elections held in countries including Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, revealed sharp declines in voter participation, as many stayed away, fearful of COVID-19 contamination.

Here in the U.S., 2020 may be one of the most unfortunate years to hold a general election. Not only are people expressing fear in going out to vote personally, there are also indications voters are weary of politicians and their failure to adequately represent their interests.

Several pollsters and political analysts are

finding that as people struggle with financial challenges from job loss and reduced incomes, they are losing faith in Congressional Democrats and Republicans. As the two political parties fail to find compromise in passing a bill that assures financial aid to them, some potential voters are indicating unwillingness to vote. They are simply fed up of the political process and politicians who aren’t helping them.

For many, 2020 may be the most challenging year of their lives but, for those old enough to recall, 1968 was also a very difficult year. America was involved in the Vietnam War, students were rioting and demonstrating in several cities, two prominent leaders, Democratic Party presidential candidate Robert Kennedy and civil rights icon Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., were assassinated; and the American society was in general turmoil amidst a presidential election campaign. But, the country was able to find the collective will to overcome this turmoil and move ahead positively.

So, although we feel worn from this persistent plague and all its repercussions, we cannot afford to lose hope. This is time to find strength from whichever source we choose and behave sensibly and responsibly. To do otherwise—to lose faith and hope in society and the political process, isn’t the solution. We must press on, hopeful of victory.

IRISH MOSS BY

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrew Karim akarim@cnweeklynews.com

SPORTS EDITOR Don Anthony sports@cnweeklynews.com

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 –

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020

Judge Renatha Francis Replaced As Florida Supreme Court Nominee Jamaican Americans in South Florida who were excited about Gov. Ron DeSantis' Florida Supreme Court pick Judge Renatha Francis earlier this year had their hopes crushed on Monday, he replaced her with Judge Jaime Grosshans—a judge from the 5th District of Appeal in Daytona Beach.

After weeks of legal back and forth with the high court regarding the validity of DeSantis' appointment of Francis to the Supreme Court, she withdrew her name for the appointment last Friday. Her withdrawal came shortly after

Grosshans

Francis

the Court announced a unanimous ruling ordering DeSantis to pick another judge to fill the vacant supreme court seat by Monday. A Florida high court had previously ruled Francis was constitutionally ineligible to sit on the Supreme Court as she had not completed the

Return 2 Work Virtual Job Fair For Lauderhill Sept. 22 As Floridians continue to navigate the inconvenient truths of life during a pandemic, MD Marketing Network CEO and Lauderhill resident, Melissa P. Dunn has created a space where companies can safely recruit new talent and potential employees can comfortably participate in socially distant interviews.

Dunn, who has served Lauderhill since 2013, believes the pathway to economic independence begins with livable wage jobs for everyone. To that end, she will host the first RETURN@WORK JOB FAIR in the Lauderhill on September 22.

The job fair be promoting jobs coming to Lauderhill, but they will also be conducting interviews virtually and providing much-needed job skills training opportunities in several industry verticals.

“For me, it was imperative that we bring to the table employers with livable wage jobs. It was also important that we strictly adhere to ALL social distancing protocols at every step of the process,” said MD Marketing Network's Melissa P. Dunn.

“Because job loss contributes high levels of emotional and financial stress, the other critical component for the fair was ensuring we offer assistance to the newly unemployed in applying for their unemployment benefits,” she concluded.

required 10-year on the Florida Bar when she was appointed by the governor in May this year.

Her 10-year tenure will be reached on September 24.

The governor had made a last-minute appeal to the Supreme Court to appoint

Francis, but his appeal failed.

DeSantis' original appointment of Francis was to meet his objective of appointing a Black judge to fill the vacant seat on the Supreme Court.

By replacing Francis with a white judge, for the first since 2019, no Black judges will sit on the Florida supreme court. Resistance to Francis' appointment originated from a lawsuit filed by Florida Rep. Geraldine Thompson, Democrat of Windermere. She originally sought for DeSantis to redo the nomination process to fill the Supreme Court vacancy by including a qualified Black candidate. Francis was the only Black candidate on the slate of nine names picked by the Judicial Nominating Commission, a nine-member panel selected by the governor.

Miami-Dade and Broward Counties Move into Phase Two Reopening Broward and Miami-Dade counties, the remaining two South Florida counties moved into the second phase of reopening on Monday, Sept. 14. Palm Beach County entered Phase 2 last week.

Phase two reopening allows for entertainment venues like movie theaters, concert houses, auditoriums, bowling alleys, playhouses and arcades to operate at 50 percent capacity, under strict rules. As earlier announced, however, bars will remain closed in all three counties.

Broward and Miami-Dade were among the hardest-hit counties by COVID-19, recording a total of more than 4,000 resident deaths since the start of the outbreak in March. But over the last two weeks, COVID-19 deaths and cases

have declined significantly.

The governor said Miami-Dade County's daily lab positivity rate for COVID-19 was 4.8 percent on Friday, down from over 20 percent in July. Miami-Dade County which was under a 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew revised the curfew to start from 11 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 14.

Broward's daily lab positivity rate has been in the 3 to 4 percent range in recent days according to DeSantis.

Broward officials say they are uncertain whether key indicators will trend upward following Labor Day weekend, and residents should remain vigilant and continue to take the necessary safety precautions.

“As the numbers permit, Broward will incrementally allow for further openings that continues on B4 – Phase Two Reopening

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 –

Court Orders State Department To Issue Green Card Lottery Visas

By Attorney Caroly Pedersen

A Trump administration immigration ban issued in April and extended until December 31, 2020 put a halt on nearly all family and employment immigrant visas, as well as visas for winners of the Green Card Lottery under the Diversity Visa program. In response, family members and visa applicants filed lawsuits in federal court to force the State Department to resume issuing visas.

In a decision issued on September 4, federal judge Amit Mehta, ruled that the State Department should resume issuing diversity program visas before the September 30, 2020 deadline.

For background, every year there are 50,000 immigrant visas set aside under the diversity visa program for nationals who come from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. Those who are not issued immigrant visas by September 30th each year lose the opportunity to immigrate to the U.S. This year, due to COVID-19 and the immigration ban, only about 12,000 such visas have been issued so far.

To the disappointment to many, judge Mehta did not extend the deadline past September 30 and failed to issue an order to force the administration to issue visas to the thousands of family members and workers who have been shut out of the U.S. by the immigration ban.

Challenges to the immigration ban will continue.

Trump

There's An Additional Sixty Days To Respond To USCIS Notices Due To Covid-19 With the various challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic for people going through the immigration process, responding to a simple request from the USCIS can be a very difficult, if not impossible task right now.

Immigrants who require civil documents from their home country, like certified birth and other certificates find them impossible to obtain due to office closures and reduced services.

As a result, documents which would normally only take a few weeks to obtain may not be available for many, many months.

As a result of such delays, the USCIS has extended the time allowed for applicants and petitioners to respond to letters and notices issued by the agency on pending cases. Under the new extension policy, an additional 60 calendar days from the deadline date will be given to submit a response to a request or notice issued from March 1st through September 11, 2020, which may be extended in the following months. The additional 60 days applies to: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Mehta

B1

Requests for Evidence Continuations to Request Evidence (N-14) Notices of Intent to Deny Notices of Intent to Revoke Notices of Intent to Rescind and Notices of Intent to Terminate regional investment centers Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings and Filing date requirements for Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion.

It is important to note, that responses must be received on or before the deadline, not just postmarked by the deadline date. Also, responses to request for additional evidence should always be mailed in one package, not in multiple response filings, since once the USCIS receives the first response, the officer will usually make a decision based upon that response, not no anything received later. Finally, always send responses, appeals, motions via fed-ex or another mail service, overnight.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 –

B3

LA SECTION HAITIENNE

Search and Rescue Mission Underway for Jamaicans and Haitians Missing at Sea Members of the Royal Bahamas Defense Force, the Royal Bahamas Police Marine Division and the United States Coast Guard, began a search and rescue mission on Sunday for several Haitian and Jamaican nationals reportedly missing at sea.

The police say they received an alert early Saturday, that a 27-ft vessel was taking in water nine miles south of Chub Cay in the Berry Islands. On arrival, the cops found the vessel partially submerged with several individuals in the water clinging to the vessel.

Twelve persons were subsequently rescued with ongoing search efforts to find the remaining 15 persons who were on the boat according to those rescued.

The rescued migrants were transported to HMBS Coral Harbor to be processed and checked by medical personnel in advance of subsequent handover to Police and Immigration officials for further processing and investigation.

The Defense Force Coordinator, Commander William Sturrup and the Royal Bahamas Defense Force both reminded boaters of their responsibility to observe boating safety requirements related to the possession of adequate safety, survival and communications equipment as per the Port Department regulations. The boaters were also warned to pay strict attention to weather warnings, which are guided by the Bahamas Meteorological Department.

In addition, the Royal Bahamas Defense Force urged the general public to report instances of smuggling and trafficking in person trends to its Operations Department to effectively counter such transnational maritime threats.

Up to press time their were no reports of additional survivors or bodies related to the ill fated boat.

Religious Leader Says Haitians in Bahamas

Under Pressure President of the League of Haitian Pastors, Reverend Jean Paul Charles, says Haitians living in The Bahamas are suffering economically as a result of the conditions being imposed by health authorities there to curb the spread of COVID-19.

“The Haitian community is not doing too well at the moment because of the pandemic. Many of them are no longer working and they are not benefiting from the aid program in The Bahamas,” said Charles, who is also the pastor of the Evangelical Baptist Church of Berean in Nassau “It's difficult in the Haitian community…people are asking for help,” he said, adding that the Haitian community, not just the pastors, but the community as a whole, “share all we can.”

The Bahamas, like many Caribbean

“The Haitian community is not doing too well at the moment because of the pandemic. Many of them are no longer working and they are not beneting from the aid program in The Bahamas,” – Rev. Charles Community (CARICOM) countries, is now reopening its borders after shutting them down in mid-March.

The government also implemented a number of measures, including a curfew in a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, which as of September 14 killed 65 people and infected to 2,814 others in the

Pompeo Visits Guyana

from A4

Pompeo had been critical of the David Granger administration following the disputed March 2 regional and general elections. Washington had threatened to impose stiffer sanctions on the government and other officials if the data from the national vote recount had not been used to determine and declare the results of the polls.

Granger had said that in April, his administration had turned down a request from Washington to relay the Voice of America (VOA) radio broadcasts to Venezuela, which is preparing to hold elections.

The US has called for the removal of Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro from office, supporting instead Opposition leader Juan Guaido. But Maduro has the backing of China, Russia and Cuba.

The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is urging the Irfaan Ali government “to make public, well in advance of the visit, what are the nonnegotiable elements with respect to Venezuela.” – CMC

Bahamas.

Many Haitians fearing deportation have gone into hiding and there is no official data on the number of COVID-19 cases in the Haitian community.

Reverend Charles said the Haitian community, especially in the slums, continues to try to follow social distancing protocols adding however “at the same time you can't control anyone…”

He said while the churches are preparing to reopen, the appropriate requirements and protocols will be implemented to ensure compliance with mask wear, sanitation and social distancing.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), considers that Haitians form the major part of the migrant population in The Bahamas.

Phase Two

from A8

give our residents and businesses added flexibility,” said Broward County Administrator Bertha Henry.

“We want to ensure that we use common sense when reopening Broward County to keep our community safe,” said Broward Mayor Dale V.C. Holness.

While the numbers are headed in a favorable direction, county officials say it is still important to avoid the “3 C's”—Closed Spaces, Crowded Places, and Close-Contact Settings. Broward residents are also urged to wear a facial covering when in public, and maintain social distancing of at least six feet.

People violating the facial covering requirement will now receive a $100 fine.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020

Ultimatum

Cuts Support

from A1

“If our councilors and councilor candidates are to escape a fate similar to our parliamentary candidates, electors must be convinced PNP is changing gears, and among the changes they expect is new leadership,” the letter stated.

The group had also made recommendations for the appointment of opposition senators, which Phillips rejected, naming his own people.

The PNPYO recommended its president Krystal Tomlinson, Michael Hemmings, Zulieka Jess, Omar Newell, Raymond Pryce, Patricia Duncan Sutherland, and Wavell Hinds.

Phillips later named Norman Horne, Janice Allen, Gabriella Morris, Donna Scott-Mottley, Dr Floyd Morris, Sophia Fraser-Binns, Damion Crawford, and Lambert Brown as senators.

The letter is another example of the party's chaotic internal affairs. Even prior to the general election, the party had been widely criticized for its obvious divisions and disconnect among party members. Political analysts named this as one of the main reasons for the party's bruising loss.

The PNPYO president had lost her bid in West Rural St. Andrew to newly appointed junior minister in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Juliet CuthbertFlynn.

In the meantime, the island awaits the PNP's announcement of an election for a new party president. Following the Sept. 3 polls, Phillips submitted a resignation letter to the chairman of the party but said he would hang on until a new leader is elected.

BSO Task Force

from A1

May. George Floyd’s death prompted worldwide protests and calls for police reform.

“The murder of George Floyd ended up echoing across this entire country much-needed calls for police reform from Black Lives Matter and many other civic groups out there, demanding that they not only be heard but that they would see action and response from their leaders.”

Tony said that as the leader of the BSO, it is his responsibility to answer that call.

Sheriff Tony also said that the social justice task force is not intended to impede the police and criminal justice review board that is currently being formed by Broward County leaders. The pre-selected 20-member panel is made up of community activists in the Black, Hispanic and LGBTQ communities, along with retired judges, police and clergy.

Their stated goal is to “encourage mutual listening, learning and educating in order to address community challenges, achieve goals and improve the quality of life for the residents of Broward County.”

BSO said the task force held an orientation on Sept. 16th and will begin formal meetings later this year.

from A1

for facilities against civil liability. “Other states have recognized the potential long-term problems and are implementing protections; why isn’t our governor?

More legal cases, no matter the outcome, will eventually increase insurance rates, even if the claims are not in our state. Insurance rates were already climbing in long-term care centers in Florida before COVID-19.

Assisted living facilities, in particular, have not received any financial relief thus far.”

Workers at risk without testing In recent days, the DeSantis administration had announced that it would be eliminating statesupported testing of workers—many of whom are from the Caribbean-American community—in long-term care facilities. It also said it was shuttering 23 COVID19 nursing facilities dedicated to residents who are battling the virus and cannot be properly isolated in facilities where they normally live.

The argument is that the policies are no longer necessary.

Catoe noted that state-funded and required testing in assisted living facilities stopped as of Sunday, September 13, 2020, and that “If facilities want to continue testing both staff and family members, that will be their cost to bear.”

As of September 16, the Florida Health Department reported 2,737 positive cases among residents of longterm care facilities and 3,282 among staff.

FREE

Shortages

from A4

turned to their loved ones overseas to send remittances to survive.

At the peak of COVID-19, money transfer services across the island had hundreds of Jamaicans lining up on a daily basis to collect remittances from family and friends abroad. As of June this year, remittances to the island had increased by 49 percent, compared to the same period last year, after falling in March and April.

In April, Jamaicans who had lost their jobs due to COVID-19 were given a $10,000 JMD ($70 USD) COVID-19 stimulus from the government, but for many households with children, this was barely enough to purchase a week’s worth of groceries. This coincided with the payment of $1,200 stimulus cheques by the U.S. government to residents in early April.

As the island now surpasses 4,000 cases of COVID-19, concerns have grown about whether or not there will be stricter measures imposed to limit the spread of the virus. But Prime Minister Andrew Holness, at his swearing-in ceremony on September 7, said that the island simply cannot afford another lockdown and residents will have to learn to “live with COVID19” as it begins to rebuild the economy.

Dr. Christopher Tufton, the minister of health and wellness, has predicted that some 1.5 million Jamaicans, roughly half of the population, will contract COVID-19 at some point.

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C1

NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 –

Miramar Residents Get Free Classical Music Lessons

The Miramar Cultural Center (MCC) has partnered with the Palm Beach Symphony (PBS) to bring free Classical Instrument Training to community members.

Since the beginning of September, each week individuals are being taught the basics of playing orchestra instruments from professionals at the Palm Beach Symphony.

Camasha Cevieux, Director at the Miramar Cultural Center stated, “This is a unique opportunity to bring classical music to our community to engage, inspire and educate audiences in a creative and safe way. Family members of all ages will be able to participate and follow along with local experts.”

Palm Beach Symphony Director of Education and Operations, Olga M. Vazquez, PhD added, “This exciting partnership with the Miramar Cultural Center ArtsPark will enable us to pursue our mission and expand our educational programs to students in Broward. Together, we will provide a creative outlet through music to students who are coping with the stressful changes in their lives during this unprecedented time.”

The following instruments are being covered by Palm Beach Symphony musicians: ● September 1-4: Flute was taught by Joseph Monticello ● September 7-10: Percussion was taught by Lucas Sanchez ● September 14-17: Clarinet is being taught by Anna Brumbaugh ● September 21-24: Trombone will be taught by Domingo Pagliuca ● September 28- October 1: Viola will be taught by Yael Hyken The Miramar Cultural Center's YouTube channel serves as the centerpiece of the virtual experience, with content added to the Live 2 U Virtual Programming @MiramarCultural.

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Jamaicans and reggae fans around the world are mourning the death of legend Frederick Nathaniel “Toots” Hibbert, the leader of the veteran reggae and ska band Toots & the Maytals, has died at the age of 77.

Hibbert “passed away peacefully” in Kingston, Jamaica surrounded by his family, a spokesperson for the group announced on Friday night, September 11.

The official cause of Hibbert's death has not been released, but reports were that he had been tested for the coronavirus and later put into a medically induced coma. The last medical update on his condition had come from Jamaica's Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange, who said he was slowly making improvement, and urged Jamaicans to donate blood to the singer, and put an end to then rumors of his death.

Hibbert is credited with popularizing reggae music and even naming the genre—his 1968 single “Do the Reggay” was the first song to use the term.

Before that he attained popularity in Jamaica for this 1966 Festival Song “Bam Bam” which has remained a perennial favorite with Jamaicans home and abroad.

Other hits by Toots during his career as one of reggae's foremost international artists included “54-46 That's my number,” “Pressure Drop,” “Funky Kingston,” “Sweet and Dandy,” another Festival Song winner; “Time Tough” and a cover of John Denver's “(Take me Home) Country Road.”

News of the five-time Grammy nominee's ill-health came just weeks after his last known performance, on a national live-stream during Jamaica's Emancipation and Independence celebrations in August as an entrant in the 2020 Jamaica Festival Song competition won by Buju Banton.

In a statement, the Maytals and Hibbert's family thanked medical staff “for their care and diligence.” He is survived by his wife and seven of his eight children.

His death comes just weeks before the release of Got to Be Tough, the band's first full-length album in more than a decade.

Minister Grange mourned the singer on social media, saying “It is truly a sad day. Toots is gone.”

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness also mourned the singer, saying “Today I mourn with all Jamaicans as we woke to news of the passing of our very own legendary Reggae singer Frederick “Toots” Hibbert from the iconic band, “Toots and the Maytals.”

He said that over the years, “Toots has added significant value to #BrandJamaica and many of us will remember him as one of Jamaica's best musical talents.” Prime Minister Holness sent his condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Ziggy Marley, son of Bob Marley, tweeted about the death saying he spoke with Hibbert a few weeks ago and, “told him how much i loved him we laughed & shared our mutual respect,” adding, “He was a father figure to me.”

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C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020

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NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 –

Win Streak!

Record-breaker Netballer Fowler-Reid Extends Her Team's Unbeaten Streak Sunshine Girl Jhaniele Fowler-Reid outshone Trinidadian counterpart Samantha Wallace by setting a new league record for the most points in a match as red-hot West Coast Fever won their fifth game in six outings with an 8071 victory over New South Wales Swifts in Brisbane, Australia on Saturday.

Entering the contest at the Nissan Arena without a defeat since their sixthround demise at the hands of Queensland Firebirds on August 22, Fever used a dominant first quarter where they out-shot Swifts 23-15, to lay the platform for the eventual result and extend their six-game unbeaten run in the Suncorp Super Netball League.

The 31-year-old Fowler-Reid shot 68 goals from 71 attempts to lead Fever's charge, in what was perhaps one of her finest performances of the season.

She netted 20 of Fever's first quarter goals and was again on target in a crucial second quarter, scoring all 16 of their goals as they led 39-31 at the half-time whistle.

For the second straight quarter, Fowler-Reid scored all 22 of Fever's goals in the third as Swifts answered with 20 and even though the reigning champions got the edge, 20-19, in the final quarter, it was not enough for the win.

The previous record for the most points in the game was also set by Fowler-Reid when she poured in 66

against Adelaide Thunderbirds two years ago.

Wallace was a perfect 25 of 25 and was particularly effective in the final quarter when she netted 15, as Swifts attempted a comeback.

At the same venue, 21-year-old Sunshine Girl Shimona Nelson grabbed the spotlight but her Collingwood Magpies wasted a powerful start to slump to a 61-53 defeat to Melbourne Vixens.

Nelson scored 43 from 44 attempts while for the winners.

On Sunday at the USC Stadium in Sunshine Coast, another Jamaican shooter Romelda Aiken starred in another losing effort as her Queensland Firebirds went down 75-67 to Sunshine Coast Lightning.

The 31-year-old Aiken netted 46 from 51 attempts but Firebirds were also guilty of wasting a strong start, fading badly when it mattered most. – CMC

C3

Reggae Boy Dane Kelly Continues To Shine In USL Jamaican Dane Kelly scored two goals bringing his season tally to 10 as his team Charlotte Independence stunned group leaders Birmingham Legion 3-1 on Saturday night, September 12, to march to their third win on the trot in the United Soccer League.

In the top-of-the-table contest at the BBVA Field in Birmingham which ended with both teams reduced to 10 men, Charlotte scored twice in the first half through the 29-year-old Kelly, to lay the platform for the crucial result in Group G. While Charlotte remained second, they moved to within a point of Legion who remained stuck on 22 points with their second defeat in three outings, having played one game more.

Kelly opened the scoring in the 17th minute, but another Jamaican, 29-year-old Nico Brett, then levelled for Birmingham with his seventh goal of the campaign when he finished off a clinical passing move from close range, giving custodian Brandon Miller little chance.

However, Kelly restored the advantage in the first minute of stoppage, splitting defenders to send a powerful header past Van the goal keeper.

Charlotte's victory was marred, however, when left back Joel Johnson was handed a second yellow for a poor challenge in the final minute.

At Fifth-Third Bank Stadium near Kennesaw, Georgia, 17-year-old Trinidad and Tobago youth international Ajani Fortune scored his first goal of the season but Reggae Boy Romario Williams countered with his sixth to push Miami FC to a 2-1 victory over Atlanta United 2.

Another Jamaican, Jason Johnson, also got on the scoresheet with his first goal of the season after coming off the bench in the 74th minute, netting deep in injury time at the end as hosts Louisville FC brushed aside Saint Louis FC 3-0 at Lynn Family Stadium.

Jack Warner Released from Hospital, Being Treated for COVID-19 The embattled former vice president of the International Football Federation (FIFA), Austin Jack Warner was released from a Trinidad hospital where he had been receiving medical care for COVID19.

“The worst part is over but the journey back to good health is incomplete,” said the 77-yearold Warner, who is also facing extradition to the United States on fraud-related charges linked to his role as a senior global football official.

Warner had been hospitalized since September 2 and he said he is under strict instructions to self-quarantine until September 24.

“I will also be called from time to time by the relevant official in the Ministry of Health so

Warner

as ensure that I comply with all the posthospital COVID-19 protocols.

“This was not a good road trip and I will be following the medical guidelines to the dot and to the tittle not simply because it is my social and legal responsibility to do so but because the discomfort, the isolation and the pain that one goes through is not an experience that anyone will wish for another,” said Warner, who also served a government minister here and was unsuccessful in winning a seat in the August 10 general elections.

Warner, who is on TT$2.5 million bail on charges of fraud, racketeering and money laundering, also indicated in his statement that he would remain “in the shadows away from

media contact.

“And this is not because of any disrespect to this profession to which I have grown to love but rather to allow me to recover undisturbed; I would truly wish that my request for silence during this period is respected.

“Let me, first of all, thank God for this second chance and for his mercy in allowing me to unite with my family and also once again to thank my family and friends for being my source of comfort and strength along this journey and for their prayers for healing which ascended to the throne of grace and my behalf.

God has answered and for that, I am not only grateful but extremely thankful; thanks again to one and all,” Warner added.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 17 – SEPT 23, 2020 A D V E R T I S E M E N T