Caribbean National Weekly September 30, 2021

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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2021

Security Breach

TOP STORIES R&B Superstar R. Kelly Convicted in Sex Trafcking Trial Fun And Safety Top Priorities for 2021 Miami Carnival Celebration

Since American social media influencer and youtuber Jayda Cheaves was caught illegally with guns and ammunition in Jamaica, questions have been raised about how exactly a tourist was allowed to come into the island with firearms unauthorized. continues on B4 – Gun Loophole

Gyptian to Get Heritage Award from Consulate General in NY

– Getty Image

Broward Employees Conflicted Over New Incentive Program

By Sheri-Kae McLeod

The Broward County government's new incentive program has received a stamp of approval from the majority of Commissioners, but county employees, especially those of Caribbean descent, are still divided on the issue.

As a way to encourage its employees to get vaccinated, the county is using more than $3 million in federal COVID-19 stimulus money to give every vaccinated employee $500. Those who aren't vaccinated will have to pay a surcharge of $20 every two weeks for health insurance. They'll also have to be tested weekly.

The program begins on October 1. The memo sent

“I know everyone has a responsibility to themselves, their families and their community. But the people out there that haven't goen vaccinated yet, they just haven't made it convenient for themselves to go out and do it. This incentive will help,” – Dale Holness out to county employees from County Administrator Bertha Henry stated that although county leaders struggled with the decision, they felt “obligated to act now to secure a greater level of safety for the workforce of nearly 7000”.

The program also dominated the discussion at the most recent Commissioners' meeting, where several local leaders including Jamaican-born Commissioner Dale Holness showed their support for the initiative.

There are some Broward employees, like Jane Campbell*, a Human Resources Officer at Broward County Government, who agree with Holness that the program will convince more workers to go out and get the shot.

“Hopefully, it convinces more of us to go out and take the vaccine. If I was given the choice between getting money or losing money for something as

Jamaican Nurse Highlighted at White House COVID-19 Summit Suriname Club Booted from CONCACAF; Owner Suspended for Three Years Haiti PM says Migration will Continue as Long as there is Inequality Florida Makes Quarantine Optional for Exposed Students

continues on A8 – Incentive

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER

caribbean

HEALTH

SPORTS

Meet the Jamaican Army’s First Female Chief, Commodore Wemyss Gorman A3

Hubert Minnis Sworn in as Opposition Leader of the Bahamas A4

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month B3

Jamaica Vs Costa Rica in Ft. Lauderdale October 24th C3

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness (right) is gi ed with an Aston Villa Leon Bailey jersey from American billionaire entrepreneur Wesley “Wes” Edens, who paid a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister on September 22, 2021.

Edens is co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks NBA team franchise. – Contributed

Members of the Jamaica Nurses Associa on Florida (JNAF) loading dona ons of basic medical supplies des ned for Kingston Public Hospital (KPH).

This is part of the ongoing commitment of the JNAF in their ongoing efforts through their medical missions to Jamaica. – Contributed

Shovel ceremony for construc on of the Casa Sant' Angelo affordable senior housing community. A 113 Unit Affordable Senior Living Community in Miramar (from le to right) shows Kenneth Naylor, Juana Mejia, Aristedes Pallin, Eric Silva, Wayne Messam, Kelvin Baker, Alexandra Davis, Shaun Gayle, Whi ngham Gordon, Leonard Burgess

Jamaica's Health and Wellness Minister, Dr Christopher Tu on (le ) and Carissa F. E enne, Director of the Pan American Health Organiza on, take a photo during Tu on's recent visit to Washington DC. Tu on chaired the 59th Direc ng Council of PAHO from September 20-24. – Contributed

Congratula ons to Zaria Modeste, who was crowned Miss Miami Broward Carnival Queen 2021-2022 during the 13th staging of the Miss Miami Broward Carnival Pageant at the Miramar Cultural Center on September 18. – Contributed

Denise Casale (le ) and Chris ne Curran (right) from the South Florida restaurant show, Dining Divas take a photo with Christopher Wright, Business Development Manager at the Jamaica Tourist Board while visi ng the Cruise Jamaica booth at the Seatrade Cruise Conference in Miami on September 28, 2021.

Jamaica's Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange (right), and General Manager of Independence Park Limited (IPL), Major (Ret’d) Desmon Brown (le ), and Execu ve Director, Heart Founda on of Jamaica, Deborah Chen, in doing the hand heart sign, as they par cipate in the Heart Founda on of Jamaica’s illumina on of the Usain Bolt statue for World Heart Day, at Statue Park, Na onal Stadium, on September 24. Photo by: Michael Sloley.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 –

A3

NEWSMAKER

Commodore Antonette Wemyss Gorman

Jamaican Army's First Female Chief As Lieutenant General Rocky Meade retires, the Jamaican army will have its first female Chief of Defence, Commodore Antonette Wemyss Gorman.

Wemyss Gorman will assume her new role in January 2022, when she will also be promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral.

She takes over from General Meade, who was a member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) for 38 years. In December 2016, he was named Chief of Defence Staff.

Gorman, 48, was one of three senior Jamaica Defence Force commanders interviewed for the job.

A release from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) said: "The Defence Board is announcing its decision, after interviewing three senior JDF officers, to appoint Commodore Antoinette Wemyss Gorman to the post of chief of defence staff. Wemyss Gorman is a career officer whose 29 years of service has been characterised by notable achievement and exceptional service" to the JDF. She has performed at the strategic level of command within her technical area of expertise and in other domains, both internal and external to the JDF."

Commodore Antonette Wemyss-Gorman reviews the JDF Air Wing Guard at Maritime, Air and Cyber Command Change of Command Parade. (Lance Corporal Cordell Williams / JDF)

Commodore Antonette Wemyss Gorman enrolled in the Jamaica Defence Force in 1992 and has served for 29 years.

She is the JDF's highest-ranking naval officer and the only female officer.

Wemyss Gorman graduated with honors from the University of the West Indies with a Master's Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. She was promoted to her present rank in December 2019 and took over as Force Executive Officer in January 2020.

She presently offers strategic counsel to the Force in support of the Chief of Defence Staff's transformative strategy.

She is also in charge of the

Caribbean Military Maritime Training Centre (CMMTC) and the Maritime Air and Cyber Command, which comprises the JDF Coast Guard, JDF Air Wing, and Special Forces.

Her pending appointment has already been hailed by several prominent Jamaicans, including Gender, Sports, Entertainment and Culture Minister, Olivia Grange, who said Wemyss Gorman's appointment represented not only a "huge step for women and girls, but also gender equality in the country."

President of the People's National Party, Mark Golding also congratulated Wemyss Gorman on her historic achievement. “ We t hank y ou f or y ou r tremendous service to our great nation and look forward to your term as Chief of Defence Staff.

Congratulations! We wish you continued success as you continue to encourage Jamaican women and girls,” he said.

Commodore Antonette Wemyss Gorman enrolled in the Jamaica Defence Force in 1992 and has served for 29 years. She is the JDF's highest-ranking naval officer and the only female officer.

According to the OPM, she is married and is the mother of a 15year-old son.

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A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN

Trinidad Government Announces Safe Zones for Vaccinated Residents must also have the vaccination cards on them as proof of their vaccination status “to provide it to the enforcement officers.”

“At this time, we are looking at the enforcement officers being the Police Service and public health officers,” he said.

Prime Minister Rowley also hinted at the possibility of having public servants vaccinated against the coronavirus.

“If it becomes necessary, we will. The government has taken up a whole lot of the response to the virus. For example, all government employees have got their full emoluments during this pandemic.

“People who are in the private sector, where the business just could not carry the burden, many persons have lost their jobs. But what we did was to make sure that the population got its means of survival with the government carry at taxpayers' expense a huge burden.

“It is the same thing here. To get more activity in the country, especially to those persons who have been carrying the burden of the shutdown, give them an opportunity to conduct their businesses because we now know

The government of Trinidad and Tobago will open restaurants, entertainment facilities and other venues to fully vaccinated residents only.

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley at a media conference announced that the safe zones will be in effect from October 11, as vaccination numbers continue to increase.

The Prime Minister, which also announced a one hour reduction in the daily curfew hours, said that fully vaccinated people will be allowed to participate in several activates, including in-house dining, going to cinemas, gyms and casinos.

“We are accepting that we have to live with the virus. We living with the virus with a vaccination programme and hoping for co-operation from the population,” Rowley said.

Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Stuart Young, said that “in the safe zones business owners would be required to make sure that all of the employees are fully vaccinated.

“They are also required to have proof of the vaccination of all of the employees operating in the safe zone on the premises,” Young said, adding that patrons

continues on B4 – Safe Zones

THE BAHAMAS

Minnis Sworn in as Opposition Leader Former Prime Minister of Bahamas, Dr Hubert Minnis was sworn in as opposition leader on Friday.

His swearing-in ceremony follows the defeat of his Free National Movement (FNM) party on September 16.

On that day the party suffered a crushing defeat at the polls, winning only seven out of 39 seats.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, the former Prime Minister said the FNM will be an effective opposition despite its size.

“Little axe can cut down a big tree. I have a very powerful opposition group. . .Michael Pintard, Kwasi Thompson, Adrian White, Adrian Gibson—I have a very powerful and effective group,” he said.

Minnis

On Wednesday, the chairman of the FNM Carl Culmer revealed that the party's council agreed to let Minnis remain as the leader of the party until a new leader emerges from a convention in November.

The meeting followed the FNM executive committee's decision to recommend to the council that Minnis remains the leader during the transition period.

The opposition leader had told committee members that he will hold on to his seat and has no plans to resign from the House of Assembly.

Minnis added that he hopes the new administration will keep the policies he implemented to give Bahamians a better life.

Barbados PM Calls on Global Community to Address Climate Change, Vaccine Inequality at UNGA Barbados has sought answers to a number of questions from the international community ranging from climate change to a new world order that would allow for the global community to shape its own future destiny.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley addressing the United Nations General Assembly continues on B4 – Climate Change

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 –

Talk Up!

TALKUP

Is Joe Biden Doing A Good Job As President So Far? In January 2021, Joe Biden took office as the 46th president of the United States, inheriting a country battling the worst virus outbreak in a century, along with racial tension and immigration issues. President Biden promised, like all other Presidents before him, to work assiduously to fix these correct these issues.

It is now nine months into his Presidency, and there has already been major moves like a sweeping vaccine mandate, withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan, a hate crimes bill, and most recently, the mass expulsion of migrants at the border. With all that has happened in the United States in the last nine months, we asked some of our readers if they think that President Biden is doing a good job so far. Here are the responses:

Diane Harris: Three months ago, 63% of us Democratic Americans approved of our President Joe Biden's great performance. As we continue to advance closer to the one year mark, many of us have changed our minds based solely on his decisions related to the vaccine mandate, Afghanistan and now the immigration status and the effects on the Haitians seeking refuge in America. Yes, I'm human and taking into consideration his "failures". I would be among those who would consider his performance so far, poor. But, in order to give a honest opinion, I must take a look at the man himself. He is in his first year as President and cleaning up the dirt left behind. It is not an overnight change. He is required to improve incrementally. If he was continually on a high, I would be concerned. He's going to grow a lot more gray hair before it's over. Is he doing a good job you ask, what is good? Good is relative, let's give the man a chance just like we did for Donald Trump.

Ludnie Joseph: I feel as though he's doing the best he can given the circumstances the nation was left in after the Trump administration. Here's the thing, presidents aren't people-pleasers, they strive to meet the needs of the people but inevitably it is impossible to do so. Unfortunately, they look like the bad guys because they can't deliver or succumb to promises they made in the heat of running for office.

Jonathan Bateman: This is America. Mandates should be decided by 2/3 branches of government.

Not one man. Biden can appear to be hypocritical at times. He initially said he didn't believe in any mandate and now he's issuing them left and right. I just feel sorry for the millions of people being torn between the two sides. This doesn't affect me though but I can imagine how it affects others who maybe indecisive.

Sabrina Foster: Overall I believe that Biden and his administration is doing a fine job. They are under a lot of pressure with all that's going on at the border, natural disasters, and the political affairs in Afghanistan. Right now as a nation we need to not focus on if he's doing a good job, but come together to rectify the issues at hand. It’s unfair to put all the pressure on him taking into consideration the trying times that we are living in. I think, under the circumstances, he has been doing fairly well.

Tony Garcia: Losing a war undermines the public's trust in any leader. But the setback causing the most damage to Joe Biden's political standing likely isn't the U.S. military defeat in Afghanistan—it's the frustrating home-front struggle against the resurgent coronavirus pandemic.

America’s efforts to manage the pandemic has paled compared to it’s counterparts in Europe and the rest of the developed world, and that’s where he is dropping the ball.

Shirley Seivright: Everybody's into Biden as a savior but I am not quite sure Joe Biden even knows what he's doing. I don't think he's necessarily doing a good job. It appears he has an agenda for pushing the vaccine in a very subtle manner so I'm not comfortable with Joe Biden. He's definitely doing a much better job than Donald Trump. He's a more decent person in terms of certain things.

Beneath the scene, I am just fearful that there is some thing that is going to occur that will shake the nation. That's how I honestly feel right now.

A5

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A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

EDITORIAL

What took you so long Caribbean Tourism Leaders?

Tourism is one of the biggest economic engines of the Caribbean.

The region's beautiful beaches, lush greenery, amazing weather, delicious food, and friendly people make it a favorite vacation spot for almost 32 million visitors in 2019. According to statista.com, tourism contributed 24.5 percent or roughly $24 billion to the region's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020. Despite those numbers, visitor arrivals for last year nosedived from its peak to a paltry 11 million, a drop of 65.5 percent.

The covid pandemic has hit the industry very hard and the Caribbean is feeling it. Up to August 2021 only four of the 24 destinations have recorded growth, based on figures from the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO). Most destinations have now opened their doors and rolled out the red carpet, eagerly awaiting the arrivals of visitors. And while growth is expected, it will be a long and slow journey to the record numbers of 2019.

The pandemic has brought out the creative forces of some Caribbean islands. In July last year, Barbados created the 'Welcome Stamp Programme' that allowed visitors to stay and work in the island for up to one year. Essentially, giving visitors the best of both worlds; working safely from the pandemic and enjoying an extended vacation. By the end of August, the government reported that it made eight million dollars from 1,987 approved applicants.

In Jamaica, the government benefitted tremendously from its 'Resilient Corridor.' This is a stretch of

‘tourism’ real estate that is designed to encourage safe vacationing for visitors.

It afforded visitors the opportunity to enjoy their vacation free of covid while protecting workers as well.

Data from the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association showed that 25 percent of the more than 250 Caribbean tourism companies surveyed, were not expecting full recovery until at least mid-2023. What is even more dreadful is that more than 50 percent of those businesses were unsure they could stay afloat.

On September 27 the World Tourism Organization (WTO) celebrated World Tourism Day 2021, under the theme, “Tourism for Inclusive Growth.” In recognizing the day, the WTO asks its members to see this as “an opportunity to look beyond tourism statistics and acknowledge that, behind every number, there is a person.” This is especially germane to the Caribbean nations where there is a high dependency on tourism.

For its part, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) used the day to “highlight and address the challenges faced in forging a sustainable tourism sector and identifying the opportunities to build a more socially inclusive, sustainable and smart sector.” In doing so, the CTO said there is “a clear sign of the importance we all place on collaboration and inclusion.”

The organization said it “recognized that to achieve its goals, it's imperative that we forge alliances and partnerships with organizations and institutions that play a meaningful role in contributing to the social and economic development of the region.”

It is inconceivable and rather disheartening, that it took the CTO 32 years to conclude that for tourism to be sustainable and beneficial to its members, it must include its communities. It is estimated that more than two-third of the accommodations in the Caribbean are foreign-

owned. This means that most of the money earned by these companies never reach the people and places that make the countries what they are, for tourism. For example, Craft vendors and other creators of 'tourism products' hardly benefit from their business ventures, which affects their ability provide for their families.

We have seen too often where the tourism dollar goes mostly to the 'big players' while the 'small man' gets nothing or just mere crumbs. This must stop if fairness and economic prosperity is the goal of Caribbean leaders.

We are happy that the major stakeholders have seen the light, but sorry that it has taken so long, and a pandemic to focus on this very important area that is so vital to Caribbean people. In fact, it was just last month that the CTO launched the Caribbean Community Tourism Network (CCTN). This according to them, will “provide a platform to support the continued development of [Community-based Tourism] CBT in the Caribbean.

Nearly 18 million people depend on the tourism dollars in the Caribbean. It cannot be that only a few at the top benefit. We therefore hold the CTO to its word when it says: “By providing opportunities such as these to vulnerable groups, we enhance the capacity of Caribbean people to play a leading role in their own development.” We will also be looking to see how it makes tourism inclusive and "by extension promote growth in all our communities."

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A7

la section haitienne

Special Envoy to Haiti Resigns Over Migrant Expulsions The Biden administration's special envoy to Haiti has resigned, protesting “inhumane” large-scale expulsions of Haitian migrants to their homeland wracked by civil strife and natural disaster.

Daniel Foote was appointed to the position only in July, following the assassination of Haiti's president. Even before the migrant expulsions from the small Texas border town of Del Rio, the career diplomat was known to be deeply frustrated with what he considered a lack of urgency in Washington and a glacial pace on efforts to improve conditions in Haiti.

“I will not be associated with the United States inhumane, counterproductive decision to deport thousands of Haitian refugees and illegal immigrants to Haiti. Our policy approach to Haiti remains deeply flawed, and my policy recommendations have been ignored and dismissed, when not edited to project a narrative different from my own.” – Daniel Foote Foote wrote Secretary of State Antony Blinken that he was stepping down immediately “with deep disappointment and apologies to those seeking crucial changes.”

Two U.S. officials with direct knowledge of the matter confirmed the resignation on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss it publicly.

One official, who was not authorized to publicly discuss personnel matters and spoke on condition of anonymity, said that Foote had consistently sought greater oversight of Haiti policy and that the administration did not believe his requests were appropriate.

Foote's sudden departure leaves a void in U.S. policy toward Haiti and adds another prominent, critical voice to the administration's response to Haitians camped on the Texas

border. The administration's U.S. ambassador, Michele Sison, another career diplomat, is expected to depart soon after being nominated to serve as the State Department's assistant secretary of international organization affairs.

The camp has shrunk considerably since surpassing more than 14,000 people on Saturday – many of them expelled and many released in the U.S. with notices to report to immigration authorities.

The White House is facing sharp bipartisan condemnation. Democrats and many proimmigration groups say efforts to expel thousands of Haitians without a chance to seek asylum violates American principles and their anger has been fueled by images that went viral this week of Border Patrol agents on horseback using aggressive tactics against the migrants.

The expulsion flights to Haiti began laast Sunday. U.S. officials say they are ramping up to seven flights a day, which would mark one of the swiftest, large-scale expulsions from the U.S. in decades.

Foote served previously in Haiti as deputy chief of mission and is a former ambassador to Zambia. In new role, he worked with the U.S. ambassador to support Haiti after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

For weeks, he had been quietly pushing in Washington a plan to boost U.S. security assistance to Haiti to pave the way for presidential elections. But Haiti watchers said he became increasingly disappointed with the pace of decision-making in the administration.

“When someone who is tasked with Haiti policy at the highest level resigns because 'recommendations are ignored and dismissed' it's not only troubling, but shows you this administration does not tolerate anyone who won't go along with their distorted view of the facts,” said Damian Merlo, a Republican strategist who has worked for years on Haiti policy and is now a registered lobbyist for the country's government. “Dan Foote is a world class diplomat who refuses to be told what do. I wish more foreign service officers had his courage to stand up and call out their bosses.”

Haiti PM says Migration will Continue as Long as there is Inequality As thousands of Haitian migrants are being deported from the United States southern border in Texas, Haiti Prime Minister Ariel Henry says that as long as there is inequality, migration will continue.

Henry told the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Debate on Saturday that “human beings, fathers and mothers who have children, are always going to flee poverty and conflict.

“Migration will continue as long as the planet has both wealthy areas, whilst most of the world's population lives in poverty, even extreme poverty, without any prospects of a better life,” he said in a pre-recorded message.

Henry also reminded wealthy nations that their prosperity is in some part due to the efforts of migrants.

“We believe that many countries which are prosperous today have been built through successive waves of migrants and refugees,” he said, pointing to the 80 million displaced persons worldwide, including 30 million refugees and asylum seekers.

Henry urged leaders to address the root causes of displacement, including the living conditions in places of origin.

The Haitian Prime Minister also lauded international solidarity in response to the earthquake that struck the French-speaking Caribbean country in August, including the recent visit to the country by UN Deputy SecretaryGeneral, Amina Mohammed.

A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

COMMUNITY

State Makes Quarantine Optional for Students Exposed to COVID-19 Florida's newly appointed surgeon general has signed new protocols allowing parents to decide whether their children should quarantine or stay in school if they are asymptomatic after being exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

The new guidelines signed by Dr. Joseph Ladapo also tweaked the state's prohibition against school mask mandates, prompting an administrative law judge to dismiss a lawsuit against the old rule that had been filed by various school boards.

In terms of quarantine rules, Ladapo eliminated previous mandates requiring students to quarantine for at least four days off campus if they've been exposed. Under the new guidelines, students who have been exposed can continue going to campus, “without restrictions or disparate treatment,” provided they are asymptomatic. They can also quarantine, but no longer than seven days, provided they do not get sick.

“Quarantining healthy students is incredibly damaging for their educational advancement,” Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis said last Wednesday at a news conference in Kissimmee.

“It's also disruptive for families. We are going to be following a symptoms-based approach.”

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says people who get infected can spread the virus starting from two days before they have any symptoms. The CDC recommends that a student should quarantine for 14 days if they are unvaccinated. They can shorten the quarantine to seven days by testing negative, according to the CDC. The president of a statewide teachers' union said school districts need all the tools necessary to keep children safe.

“Limiting districts' options and blocking them from following CDC guidelines is not in the best interest of the health of our students, employees or families,” said Andrew Spar, president of the Florida Education Association.

DeSantis named Ladapo to the job last Tuesday. Ladapo, who previously was a UCLA doctor and health policy researcher, shares the governor's approach to managing the coronavirus pandemic. Like DeSantis, Ladapo has said he doesn't believe in school closures, lockdowns or vaccine mandates.

DeSantis' administration has opposed mask

and vaccine mandates, fought local school boards over their efforts to require students to wear masks in schools and championed the use of monoclonal antibodies as a treatment for those who get sick with COVID-19.

Unchanged from the earlier rules are requirements that students with the virus either quarantine for 10 days, receive a negative test and be asymptomatic before returning to campus or offer a doctor's note granting permission.

As in the previous guidelines, schools can require masks as long as students can opt out, though the new rules add language that it's “at the parent or legal guardian's sole discretion.”

School officials in Alachua, Broward, Leon and Miami-Dade and Orange counties recently challenged the state's prohibition against mask mandates. But the Florida Department of Health argued that its new rule should lead to the dismissal of the lawsuit that targeted the old rule. An administrative law judge agreed Wednesday, saying no decision on the validity of the rule could be made since it had been repealed.

VMBS Continues to “Make Moves” in South Florida With Community Blitz Victoria Mutual Building Society (VMBS) Florida Representative Office will culminate its 2021 Series of “Bank on the Move”' Diaspora Community Blitz in early October.

The events will take place at Donna's Caribbean Restaurant, 5434 N University Drive, Lauderhill (October 4th and 5th) and Dutch Pot Jamaican Restaurant, 19695 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami Gardens (October 7th and 8th), between

10:00am and 6:00pm.

According to Suzette Rochester Lloyd, Chief Representative Officer, VM – Florida Representative, “the 'Bank on the Move' Diaspora Community Blitz is a financial wellbeing education initiative.” It allows new and existing members to meet the VM team , ask questions, and get valuable information on VM's products and services..

Victoria Mutual has held similar 'Bank on the Move' blitz in Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Tampa, which Rochester Lloyd said were, "well received by the Jamaican and friends of Jamaican communities.

She said feedback from members indicated that they very appreciative of the society's committment to facilitate the ease of doing business, and provide documentation updates.

Incentive

from A1

simple as taking the vaccine, well that seems like a no-brainer to me. I think others will eventually come around,” she said.

For other county employees, like Jamaican-American Jasmine Faye* who works in the transit department, the program seems more like enforcement than encouragement.

“I'm surprised no employee has protested it yet. People who are vaccinated are happy about the $500, but for those who aren't, they'll lose $20 every two weeks. How dare they? People are still recovering from this pandemic,” she said, Faye, who is fully vaccinated, said most of the employees who work in her department are vaccinated. She said, however, that the general consensus among coworkers is that the county is doing a disservice to its employees by docking the pay of those who haven't taken the shot.

A similar point was raised by Broward County Vice Mayor Michael Udine, who said that the policy may be pushing the county's Caribbean employees to make a decision that they aren't comfortable with.

“This program is gonna affect lower-level employees who are gonna be penalized this most over this. This is a cultural thing for a lot of our Caribbean employees - a lot of people not from this country, they don't wanna take the vaccine. I don't agree with them but this is culturally-embedded in how they move forward. I don't wanna pay someone $500 to do something what they should be doing,” Udine said. *names were changed to ensure the privacy of the employees.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 –

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

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B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR HERBERT A. AMMONS MIDDLE SCHOOL- REVISED The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida (Board), intends to award one Construction firm for the following General Obligation Bond (GOB) project:

PROJECT NO. 01894900 HERBERT A. AMMONS MIDDLE SCHOOL NEW SCHOOL FACILITY TO REPLACE PORTABLES 17990 S.W. 142 AVENUE MIAMI, FLORIDA 33177 BIDS DUE: Sealed bids will be received by The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, for the project listed herein, until 1:00 P.M. local time, Tuesday November 2, 2021, at 1450 N.E. Second Avenue, Lobby in the N.E. Fifteenth (15th) Street entrance, Miami, Florida, following which time and place, or as soon there-after as the Board can attend to the same, the said bids will be publicly opened, read and tabulated in the Board Auditorium, Miami-Dade County School Board Administration Building, by an authorized representative of the Board. Award of the contract will be made to the lowest, pre-qualified responsible and responsive bidder for the actual amount bid considering base bid and accepted alternates (if any) as listed in the bidding documents. The Board will award the contract based upon the results of the tabulations as covered by applicable laws and regulations.

Bidders desiring to participate in this solicitation must be pre-qualified by the Board prior to submitting their bid in response to this solicitation. Contact the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Office of Economic Opportunity at (305) 995-1307 or via email at oeo@dadeschools.net for information regarding Contractors' Pre-qualification procedures.

QUESTIONS: Written questions regarding this project will be accepted. All written communications must be sent to the Project Architect/Engineer, Rudy Hernandez (rudy@zyscovich.com), Zyscovich Architects, 100 Biscayne Boulevard, 27th Floor, Miami, Florida 33132. Questions will be accepted until 5:00 pm on Tuesday, October 19, 2021. Answers will only be issued to the Contractors who attended the mandatory Pre-bid Conference.

MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE: (Herbert A. Ammons Middle School): Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. local time, at Herbert A. Ammons Middle School, 17990 S.W. 142 Avenue, Miami, Florida 33177. There will be a sign-in period from 10:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Potential bidders arriving after the fifteen (15) minute sign-in period will not be allowed to participate in this solicitation. Proposals submitted by firms not represented at the Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will not be considered.

BOARD POLICIES: Cone of Silence A Cone of Silence, pursuant to Board Policy 6325, shall commence with the issuance of this Legal Advertisement and shall terminate at the time the item is presented by the Superintendent to the appropriate Board committee immediately prior to the Board meeting at which the Board will award or approve a contract, reject all bids or responses, or take any other action that ends the solicitation and review process. Any violation of this rule shall be investigated by the Board's Inspector General and shall result in the disqualification of the potential applicant from the competitive solicitation process, rejection of any recommendation for award, or the revocation of an award to the vendor as being void, rendering void any previous or prior awards. The potential vendor or vendor's representative determined to have violated this rule, shall be subject to debarment.

General questions regarding the legal advertisement will be sent to the Office of Capital Improvement Projects via email at ocip@dadeschools.net, and a copy filed with the Clerk of the School Board at celiarubio@dadeschools.net, who shall make copies available to the public upon request.

Lobbyist Lobbyist requirements, pursuant to Board Policy 8150, shall be applicable to this solicitation and all proposers and lobbyists shall strictly conform to, and be governed by, the requirements set forth therein. Contact the Clerk of the School Board for additional information.

Vendor and Employment Preference Local-Vendor Preference, pursuant to Board Policy 6320.05, shall apply to this solicitation. Based on Board policy, Local Business means a vendor or business that has a valid business tax receipt, issued by a jurisdiction located in MiamiDade County, that has either (1) its headquarters, manufacturing facility, or locally-owned franchise located within the legal boundaries of Miami Dade County, for at least twelve (12) months, or (2) has an office with a street address within the boundaries of Miami-Dade County for at least twenty-four (24) months, calculated from the bid or proposal opening date. Post office boxes are not verifiable and shall not be used for the purpose of establishing said physical address. In order to be considered for local preference, vendors must provide a copy of their business tax receipt and the Local Business Affidavit of Eligibility with their proposal. Proposers who fail to submit the required documents will not be considered for Vendor Preference.

Jessica Lunsford Act The successful proposer(s) shall fully comply with the State of Florida's House Bill 1877 “Jessica Lunsford Act” (JLA); FS 1012.465, 1012.32, 1012.467 & 1012.468 and Board Policy 4121.01, Employment Standards and Fingerprinting of all Employees (also refer to Board Policy 8475).

Ethics, Conflict of Interest and Anti-Fraud Proposers responding to this solicitation shall comply with the following ethics, conflict of interest and anti-fraud policies: - Board Policy 6460, Business Code of Ethics; - Board Policy 6460, Disclosure of Employment of Former School Board Employees; - Board Policy 8700, Anti-Fraud; and all related Board policies and procedures, as applicable Contractor Debarment Procedures Pursuant to Board Policy 6320.04, Contractor Discipline Procedures, debarred contractors are excluded from conducting business with the Board as agents, representatives, partners, and associates of other contractors, subcontractors or individual sureties.

Commercial Anti-discrimination, Diversity, and Inclusion Proposers responding to this solicitation shall comply with the following anti-discrimination policies: - Board Policy 6465, Commercial Anti-discrimination, Diversity, and Inclusion (proposers shall be required to certify compliance with Board Policy 6465); - Board Policy 1362.02, 3362.02 and 4362.02, Anti-discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedure; and - all related Board policies and procedures, as applicable Protest Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed and in the manner specified in Board Policy 6320 (Purchase Approval and Competitive Bidding Process Requirements) or in accordance with FS Section 120.57(3) shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under FS Chapter 120.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The proposer acknowledges that all information contained in their RFQ Response is part of public domain as defined by the State of Florida Sunshine Law. Therefore, any information received is subject to public inspection and copying in accordance with FS 119. No action on the part of the proposer would create an obligation of confidentiality on the part of the School Board including, but not limited to, making a reference in the RFQ Response to trade secrets FS 812.081 and 815.045. It is recommended that potential proposers exclude from their response any information that, in their judgment, may be considered a trade secret.

Board policies, as amended from time to time, can be accessed and downloaded at: https://go.boarddocs.com/fl/sbmd/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BK6KUF4FFE14.

The successful proposer(s) shall fully comply with the State of Florida's House Bill 1877 “Jessica Lunsford Act” (JLA); FS 1012.465, 1012.32, 1012.467 & 1012.468 and Board Policy 4121.01, Employment Standards and Fingerprinting of all.

Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed and in the manner specified in Board Policy 6320 or in accordance with §120.57(3). Fla. Stat. (2014) shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

Pre-qualified bidders may obtain a CD of the documents for construction or a full set of printed documents for construction at the bidder's expense from the office of Go Green Document Solutions, Inc. on 3715 Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 on and after, September 27, 2021.

OFFICE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY Small/Micro, Minority/Women-Owned, and Veteran Business Enterprise Programs, Board Policy 6320.02 Awarded firms will be required to comply with Board Policy 6320.02 and submit a monthly report via the Online Diversity Compliance System for compliance with Small/Micro, Minority/Women and/or Veteran sub-consultant goals, subcontractor goals, local workforce information, and/or any affirmative procurement initiatives. Awarded firms will be required to submit monthly compliance reports online at: http://miamidadeschools.diversitycompliance.com. Please note that the “Small/Micro Business Enterprise Program Administrative Procedures Manual”, Board-approved January 15, 2020, shall be applicable to this solicitation. Please contact the Office of Economic Opportunity at 305-995-1307 or via email at OEO@dadeschools.net for additional information.

Assistance levels, as established by the Goal Setting Committee: Herbert A. Ammons Middle School: S/MBE Mandatory Subcontracting Goals: 13.04% Construction and 20% Local Work Force, within a county-wide radius.

Mandatory M/WBE Subcontracting Goals: 11.6%- African American, Native American and Asian American firms.

The Board reserves the right to waive informalities and to reject any and all bids.

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Alberto M. Carvalho Superintendent of Schools

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 –

B3

HEALTH & WELLNESS

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month The month of October is used to bring awareness to breast cancer, show support for victims and survivors, and to promote mammograms and breast cancer screenings which continue to save millions of lives annually.

Here are statistics of which every woman who has postponed a mammogram should be aware: Women who had mammograms had a 25% lower rate of advanced breast cancer and a 41 percent lower rate of breast cancers that were fatal within 10 years, according to a recent study published in the journal Cancer.

What this study underscores is that even with all the encouraging advances in breast cancer treatment, nothing is more important than finding breast cancer early, before it has spread to the lymph nodes or elsewhere.

For women who belong to certain ethnic or racial groups, the concern is even greater.

Breast cancer is diagnosed in Black women and White women at about the same rate.

However, Black women die from it at a higher rate. In keeping with this disturbing health disparity, breast cancer was more likely to be found at an earlier stage among White women than among Black women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

When to Obtain a Screening The American Cancer Society recommends women between 40 and 44 years of age have an annual mammogram, should they wish to do so, and women 45 to 54 years of age have yearly mammograms. Women 55

screening based on their family history and other risks.

Breast Cancer Services Breast cancer screening technology includes digital mammography, sensory suites, contrast-enhanced mammography and Tomosynthesis.

Where to Start

and older may switch to mammograms every two years or can continue yearly screening.

Given the considerable proof that screening reduces the rates of advanced and fatal breast cancers, all women should talk to their doctors about when they should begin mammography

Study after study demonstrates that incident and mortality rates often increase with delayed screenings. The best way to care for yourself and those you love is to obtain a breast screening, today. Use this October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a catalyst to get up to date with your mammogram and any other health screenings your doctor recommends.

Pfizer Says COVID-19 Vaccine Works in Kids Ages 5 to 11 Pfizer says its COVID-19 vaccine works for children ages 5 to 11 and that it will seek U.S. authorization for this age group soon — a key step toward beginning vaccinations for youngsters.

The vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech already is available for anyone 12 and older. But with kids now back in school and the extracontagious delta variant causing a huge jump in pediatric infections, many parents are anxiously awaiting vaccinations for their younger children.

For elementary school-aged kids, Pfizer tested a much lower dose — a third of the amount that's in each shot given now. Yet after their second dose, children ages 5 to 11 developed coronavirus-fighting antibody levels just as strong as teenagers and young adults, Dr. Bill Gruber, a Pfizer senior vice president, told The Associated Press.

The kid dosage also proved safe, with similar or fewer temporary side effects — such as sore arms, fever or achiness — that teens experience, he said.

“I think we really hit the sweet spot,” said Gruber, who's also a pediatrician.

Earlier this month, FDA chief Dr. Peter Marks said Pfizer turns over its study results, his agency would evaluate the data “hopefully in a matter of weeks” to decide if the shots are safe and effective enough for younger kids.

Many Western countries so far have vaccinated no younger than age 12, awaiting evidence of what's the right dose and that it works safely in smaller tots. But Cuba recently began immunizing children as young as 2 with its homegrown vaccines and Chinese regulators have cleared two of its brands down to age 3.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CONTINUATIONS

Gun Loophole

from A1

Cheaves, and her friend Gregory Wright, on Wednesday, were charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition in Jamaica.

The entrepreneur, who is also know for her relationship with rapper Lil Baby, arrived on the island last week to celebrate her 24th birthday on September 25th. While attempting to depart the island via the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay on Monday, Cheaves and Wright were found in possession of two 9mm pistols, and 15 rounds of ammunition.

They were attempting to board a private jet.

A release from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Corporate Communications Unit (CCU) said the US citizens admitted to owning the firearms, which were not declared when they arrived on the island.

“These weapons are licensed to the persons in question in their home countries, but not in Jamaica,” the statement said.

Cheaves and Wright were charged and appeared at the Western Regional Gun Court in St. James to answer to the charges. They both pleaded guilty and were fined a total of over USD$5,000 for the ammunition offence.

The incident has raised concerns about a looohole regarding contraband and other unauthorized items being brought into the island.

An undisclosed source at the Sangster International Airport revealed that many times, internationals visitors who fly via private jets are often not checked at the port of entry.

Elaine Daley, an inspector at the Central Police Station in Jamaica also explained that many celebrities are able to bypass security at U.S. airports.

“Some celebrities don’t go through the Transport

Climate Change that it is possible to reduce the risk through the vaccination programme and as we bring more and more people out, it is possible that a few more persons will get infected…but we are hoping and we are anticipating that persons will see that exposure and say that infection I am exposed to, I can ameliorate it with a vaccine,” he told reporters.

Rowley said that the rule model being used in a pandemic is already in use and has been implemented successfully in several countries.

He told reporters that some Caribbean countries

Security Administration (TSA) when they’re coming into Jamaica. That’s if they fly private. And if they aren’t checked when they arrive in Jamaica, that’s definitely a loophole. It’s a flaw in the system both locally and internationally,” she explained.

A pilot who flies private jets confirmed that people who fly private generally get to bypass security checks at airports in the U.S. “That’s how it is most of the time. People who fly private don’t go through security or anything. They’ll check ID, your passport. But not bags,” he told Caribbean National Weekly.

He also stated that security protocols are relaxed for people who fly private in most countries in North and Latin America.

“Mexico is the only country that I’ve flown where they have strict security protocols. They don’t play.

Sometimes Canada too, but generally, people in America can fly private to most places without security checks.”

Members of the diaspora expressed shock at the massive breach, citing that it could also explain the high level of illegal firearms brought into Jamaica annually.

“That’s ridiculous. You’d think they’d take security more seriously. The Jamaican government needs to step up because an incident like this is what criminals would take advantage of,” said Orane Jackson, a Jamaican living in Lauderdale Lakes.

Cheaves and her entourage left the island on Wednesday afternoon after appearing in court. Via Instagram, she said the incident was “an honest mistake” and said that her birthday celebrated in Jamaica was “the best one ever”.

from A4

had taken “draconian” and “dictatorial measures” by Trinidad and Tobago standards to deal with the pandemic and that imposition of harsher measures for unvaccinated people around the world is seen as bullying and interpreted as “taking away rights.

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh said that the enforcement and cross-checking of immunisation cards would callow for catching those using fake cards with Rowley reminding the population that the falsification of a government document was illegal and those caught in such acts would face significant penalties.

Safe Zones (UNGA), said that three ago when she delivered her maiden speech to the international community she warned then that the world appeared perilously similar to how it was 100 years ago and “we have not moved the needle.

“I am not here to say I told you so.

But I will say that we must move the needle! We must lead and we must act.

How many variants of COVID-19 must arrive, before a worldwide vaccination plan is implemented? How many deaths must it take, before 1.7 billion excess vaccines are shared?”

Mottley also questioned the unwillingness of states to deal effectively with fake news even as they continue to defend the public digital spaces.

“We have come together with alacrity to defend the right of states to tax across the digital space but we are not prepared to come together quickly to defend the right of our citizens not to be duped by fake news in that same space.”

She said the global community is awaiting “global moral strategic leadership” to these issues including climate change.

“How much must global temperatures rise, before we end the burning of fossil fuels? How much must sea levels climb, before those who profited from stockpiling greenhouse gases contribute to the loss and damage they caused?

“And yes, how much must hurricanes destroy, locusts devour, and islands submerge, before we recognize that US$100 billion is not enough?

The answer Mr President is that we are waiting for urgent leadership” She asked the international community to indicate how many crises and natural disasters need to hit before there is a change of the old conventions of aid in order to reach those most vulnerable.

from A4

Mottley also questioned how wealthier must technology firms get, before “we worry about how so few have access to data and knowledge.

“The answer Mr President is that we have the means to give every child a tablet, every adult a vaccine, and invest in protecting those most vulnerable from a changing climate, but we chose not to.

She said equally is the question as to how many more times must people of color as well as women be attacked disproportionately as they seek to lead international organizations and then only be met by goodwill and nice words, only, before nationalism and militarism return.

She said that this age dangerously resembles that similarly unequal world, on the eve of the Great Depression and world war, and that the world continues to gamble with the future. “If we do not control this fire, it will burn us all down. As I said two years ago …now is the time for leadership,” she said, questioning who will sign the new charter for the 21st century that will bring hope and progress for “our people now”.

“Who will stand up in the name of all those who have died during this awful pandemic? Who will stand up in the name of all those who have died because of the climate crisis? Who will stand up a COP 26-foot small island developing states for 1.5 to survive?

Who will stand up for all those who continue to suffer in the indignity of unemployment and underemployment? Who will stand up for our children who simply want to learn mad to live in a world without being forced into migration?”

She said as a result of these issues, Barbados is calling on the international community and people of the world to “indicate the direction that we must go in to save our planet and to save our people.”

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 –

C1

ENTERTAINMENT

Spice Discusses Ending the Generational Poverty

The So Mi Like It singer, 39, declared herself “blessed!” in an Instagram post, following an interview with Forbes Magazine in which she revealed how she maintains wealth as an artist and entrepreneur.

Grace Hamilton, born in Old Braeton, Portmore, said she saw her mother struggle to feed her and her five siblings.

“I tell my mother that she is my inspiration because I have witnessed her struggle with all of us. She truly created something from nothing. My mother would cook a pound of rice and make sure we were all fed. We felt like we were carrying ten pounds of rice! I come from humble beginnings, and I overcame all adversity to become a boss,” Spice told Forbes.

Motivated by her past, Spice has launched several businesses, including her own label, Spice Official Entertainment, a clothing line called Graci Noir, and Faces & Laces, which offers full lace wigs, beauty, skincare, and other services.

“My past has inspired them. I've been so poor, and I never want to go back there. I am also a mother of two children, and I am working hard to break the generational curse of poverty. I'm still working hard to ensure a prosperous future for all of us.”

Spice also offered some advice to women who want to follow in her footsteps.

“Never accept no for an answer. Go for it if you believe in yourself and your product, even if others don't,” she advised.

“Prayer and hard work are two things I live by. It makes no difference what you have right now. You will be successful if you pray and work hard.”

Spice's debut album 10, which was released on August 6, debuted at number six on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart.

by Ramona Samuels Dane James, the talented vocalist known professionally as Si-Dane, is ecstatic about the release of his debut EP, 'Inevitable Fortune'.

The four-track set comprises beats by composer Ahbentlee, which puts him in a league of his own. The release comes courtesy of his own record label, Stainz International.

The ardent songsmith, who has been composing lyrics since seventh grade, has tapped into his long-time love of writing to put together this fresh project that he hopes will break him into the international market.

The first release, 'Let It Rain', is a somber, delicately expressed song describing his affection towards the woman he admires. Its steamy video will be released in the coming weeks via his YouTube channel.

By Jovani Davis

From poverty to owning houses, the Queen of Dancehall Spice has revealed more about her “rags to riches” story with Forbes Magazine, and why she is working so hard to break the generational curse of being born into poverty.

R&B Dancehall Singjay Si-Dane Releases New EP

“

My past has inspired them. I've been so poor, and I never want to go back there. I am also a mother of two children, and I am working hard to break the generational curse of poverty. I'm still working hard to ensure a prosperous future for all of us.”

– Spice

continues on C3 – Singjay Si-Dane

Skip Marley Teases New Song with Popcaan Vibe, a new collaboration between Reggae singer Skip Marley and dancehall superstar Popcaan, is on the way. The Bob Marley heir teased the track's October 1 release date on Twitter recently, with a snippet of the new acoustics.

“Mi new chune 'Vibe' will be officially out fuh di people on 10/1,” he tweeted.

“Thank yuh all for believin' wit me #GoodVibrationz.”

Skip Marley is no stranger to crossgenre collaborations, having previously collaborated with American pop star Katy Perry on her two-time platinum single Chained To The Rhythm.

Higher Place, his debut EP, also featured American rapper Rick Ross and

R&B singer Ari Lennox on Make Me Feel, and H.E.R. on Slow Down, the recently Gold-certified, Billboard-topping, and Grammy-nominated R&B song.

Higher Place was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album last year, but some critics argue that the EP isn't “really a reggae record.”

During Marley's interview with Wha' Gwaan Munchy on Reggaeville, the host stated that, while she agrees that the message in his music is “Reggae,” the delivery and style of his songs do not always sound distinctive to the genre.

Marley explained that while reggae is the root and foundation of his music, he is frequently inspired to take it to new

places and branch out into different sounds.

“Reggae is the foundation, but the tree has branches, and leaves grow from that branch and spread out… “I'm not really in a box, so you're just wherever the inspiration takes me at the time,” Skip explained. “But the root, Reggae music is always the foundation you know because that's where I come from, so no matter what…”

The Unruly Boss, who is also a prolific cross-genre collaborator, has previously collaborated with Reggae acts such as Beres Hammond on A Mother's Love and God Is Love, and Protoje on Like Royalty.

C2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 –

C3

SPORTS SOCCER

TRACK& FIELD

Jamaica Vs Costa Rica in Ft. Lauderdale October 24th

Thompson-Herah Dismisses Claims Surrounding Departure from MVP Track Club

Regional football fans will get a chance to witness top-class skills next month, when Jamaica's Reggae Girlz takes on its Costa Rican counterpart in an exhibition match at the Fort Lauderdale's DRV PNK Stadium on October 24th. The game is a promotional event as part of a major football initiative by Cedella Marley for the women's game.

Now in her seventh year as Global Ambassador for Jamaica's Women's football program, her new initiative dubbed Football is Freedom (FIF), will be used to “provide tools and resources for the development and growth of women's football throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, as well as diaspora communities in the United States.”

The core objectives of FIF are: 1)Support the development of women's football at the grass-roots level in the region by funding existing programs/academies in the islands AND in diaspora communities in Canada and the United States 2)Supporting the growth and development of national teams by staging an annual exhibition match/mini tournament to provide a quality training experience and raise funds that will go directly into the women's programs of the participating federations 3)Invest in the holistic wellness of the players by funding scholarships and programs that assist players with skillsets and tools to help them succeed outside of football once that time comes.

Marley sees her new initiative as an opportunity to empower women, and was inspired by firsthand experiences of the Costa Rican Federation's investment in the women's program. “In the process of my role as ambassador, I have taken note of the crucial role that football can play in empowering young women; through opportunities for education and professional advancement (both on and off the pitch). Through the Football is Freedom Initiative we can expand our efforts to other

Reggae Girlz

Marley

countries in the region and eventually beyond.”

Both the Reggae Girlz and Las Sele will arrive in South Florida October 18th for a week of training before the two-game series.

The first match will be a closed-door scrimmage on Saturday October 23rd, and the finale will be opened to the public the following day at 5 pm.

The festivities will also include a pregame party, entertainment, food trucks, a community marketplace, and a musical halftime show. Tickets will go on sale starting October 6 from Ticketmaster.

SOCCER

Injury Sidelines Striker Leon Bailey for a Month Aston Villa and Jamaica Reggae Boyz will be gutted after it was revealed that winger Leon Bailey suffered a quad injury during the 3-0 victory over Everton last Saturday in the English Premier League.

Bailey suffered the injury after coming on as a second half substitute. He scored one goal and assisted with another in a dramatic 21 minutes. The injury forced him to leave the field with ten minutes to go at Villa Park.

“Leon has a strain which is likely to keep

him out until after the international break,” Villa head coach Dean Smith told the club's media.

“We would be hopeful that he would be available for the Wolves game, but we will need to assess him nearer the time and see how he progresses over the next ten days or so.”

The news will also be a major blow for the Reggae Boyz, as they prepare for a resumption of Concacaf qualifiers next month for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The Boyz sit at the bottom of the octagonal table with only one point from three matches, after Mexico beat them 2-1, Panama brushed them aside 3-0 and they earned a 1-1 draw with Costa Rica.

The Reggae Boyz face the United States on October 7 in the American city of Austin, return home to host Canada on October 10 before flying out to meet Honduras on October 13 in San Pedro Sula.

The fastest woman alive, Elaine ThompsonHerah has dismissed recent claims that she plans to depart from the MVP Track Club.

Last week, reports surfaced that Thompson-Herah, the Olympic sprint double champion, had written a letter to the club informing them of her decision to cut ties with her longtime coach, Stephen Francis. There were also reports that she would be coached by her husband, Derron Herah, going forward.

Elaine addressed the claims on the NBC magazine show Brother From Another, saying they were just rumors.

“You know what the news media is like; I am the fastest woman alive, so they are going to try to create some form of news to try and distract the world. It's rumours, of course. I have seen articles in the media [saying] that I have died… it's always rumours. They always target me, I don't know why,” she said.

When asked how she thought the rumors started, Thompson-Herah said her recent absence from training may have caused a stir.

“Probably, because I have not shown up for practice. I am still on my rest period [but] people might be speculating why she is not in practice. But we just came back from the international circuit and we normally get about a month's rest and I am in my second week, so people are just assuming things and spreading rumours,” the athlete said.

Famed track coach, Stephen Francis had guided Thompson-Herah's career since 2014.

The 29-year-old Thompson-Herah just wrapped the best season of her career so far, where she created history by becoming the first woman ever to retain an Olympic sprint double title. She also clocked 10.54 seconds to win at the PreFontaine Classic in August, the secondfastest time in history, and then later, won her Diamond League title.

C4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, SEPT 30 – OCT 6, 2021 | CNWNETWORK.COM A D V E R T I S E M E N T