Caribbean National Weekly February 5, 2026

Why T Fuss? Kudos Keznamdi

ByNorman“HumbleLion”Lawrence

Congratulations to Keznamdi, who just won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles for his project Blxxd & Fyah. The reggae category this year was a Jamaican showcase, with nominations for Lila Iké, Vybz Kartel, Mortimer, Jesse Royal, and Keznamdi, all representing different flavors of our music

Why Keznamdi’s win matters — and what you should know about the Grammys

Once again, the Grammy outcomes sparked heated debate among Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora, especially because our most popular local music today isn’t always what the Grammys choose to recognize

continues on B3 – Why the fuss?

South Florida leaders welcome court ruling blocking end of TPS for Haitians

South Florida leaders are welcoming a federal court ruling that blocked the U.S. government from revoking legal protections for Haitians enrolled in the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, granting relief to an estimated 350,000 immigrants who were set to lose deportation protections this week

On Monday, U S District Court Judge Ana Reyes indefinitely paused the planned termination of Haiti’s TPS designation, explicitly barring the federal government from invalidating the legal status and work permits of current enrollees, as well as from arresting and deporting them

In an opinion accompanying her order, Reyes sharply criticized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s decision to end the TPS policy for Haitians, concluding that the action was “arbitrary and capricious” and in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act

Haitian American Phy Dr. Alister Martin appointed NYC Healt Commissioner

Former PNP MP Jolyan Silvera pleads guilty to manslaughte in wife’s death

Following the ruling, Haitian-American North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme, Ed D , said the decision brings relief to thousands of families living under prolonged uncertainty

“Today’s court decision brings a deep sense of relief and hope to Haitian families who have been living under the weight of uncertainty,” Desulme said “For more than 350,000 Haitians, Temporary Protected Status is not just a legal designation It determines whether families can live with stability and hope or face constant fear and uncertainty about their futures ” continues on B4 – TPS

Kevin

to

NEWSMAKER

Haitian American Physician Dr. Alister Martin appointed NYC Health Commissioner

New York Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani has appointed Haitian American emergency physician

Dr. Alister Martin as commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), placing a nationally recognized public health leader at the helm of one of the largest public health systems in the world.

The appointment was announced Jan 31 Martin, an emergency room physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, will oversee New York City’s public health system, including disease surveillance and response, prevention initiatives, and community health programs across the city’s five boroughs

“Dr Martin will help oversee the city’s public health apparatus, monitor and manage disease outbreaks, and advance the Mamdani Administration’s vision for a city where every New Yorker can find affordable, accessible, world-class healthcare,” City Hall said in a statement

The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene operates with an annual budget of approximately $1 6 billion and employs more than 7,000 workers, making it one of the largest public health agencies globally

Martin said the appointment carries deep personal meaning and reflects a commitment to the communities that shaped his upbringing

“As a kid from Jackson Heights, nothing means more to me than coming home to serve the city I was born in,” Martin said in the announcement “I’ve spent my career building

“My mother raised me as a single parent in Jackson Heights. She worked her way up from a fry cook at McDonald’s to a consultant at the United Nations. As a kid from Jackson Heights, nothing means more to me than coming home to serve the city I was born in. – Martin

programs that turn healthcare settings into launchpads for opportunity ”

He said the role also reconnects him to his immigrant roots and to the experiences that influenced his career in medicine and public service

In a separate statement, Martin further emphasized his background and upbringing

“My mother raised me as a single parent in Jackson Heights, a Haitian immigrant doing her level best,” he said “She worked her way up from a fry cook at McDonald’s to a

consu Nation Ma served to Vic Kama and w t h e House o f P Engag

He is also the founder of Vot-ER, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization that promotes civic participation through healthcare settings, and leads A Healthier Democracy, a healthcare organizing incubator based at Northeastern University

According to the mayor ’ s office, Martin’s work has focused on expanding access to services beyond traditional medical care, including opioid addiction treatment, vaccine access, financial assistance, and civic resources His initiatives have partnered with more than 1,700 hospitals nationwide and trained tens of thousands of clinicians

“From the emergency room to the White House, he has built programs that deliver at scale,” said Michael Collins, former White House director of public engagement for the vice president’s office “He will bring that same results-driven approach to improving the health of all New Yorkers ” Martin was one of five new commissioners announced in the mayor’s latest round rs include commisDepartment of formerly hold that Mata as o f t h e terans’ la-Davies o f t h e uth and lopment, a Mayuga sioner of ffice of nistrative l s a n d rings

Former PNP MP Jolyan Silvera pleads guilty to manslaughter in wife’s death

Former People’s National Party (PNP) Member of Parliament for St Mary Western, Jolyan Silvera, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of provocation in the 2023 killing of his wife, Melissa Silvera, marking a dramatic turn in a case that was initially treated as a death from natural causes

The prosecution has accepted the guilty plea to the lesser charge, and Chief Justice Bryan Sykes is scheduled to rule on Thursday on whether the Gun Court will formally accept it

Submissions from both the prosecution and the defence were heard on Tuesday during in-camera proceedings, which were closed to the public as required under the Gun Court Act Members of the media were not permitted to attend

Silvera, 52, had initially pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and using a firearm to commit a felony after his wife was found dead at the couple’s Stony Hill, St Andrew home on November 10, 2023 Early reports suggested that Melissa Silvera, 42, had died in her sleep, and her death was not immediately treated as suspicious

She was laid to rest in January 2024 at St Andrew Parish Church in Half-Way-Tree, just weeks before investigators formally upgraded the case to murder At the funeral, Silvera wept openly as family and friends gathered to mourn

A subsequent post-mortem examination later revealed that Melissa Silvera had suffered at least three gunshot wounds, with bullet fragments recovered from her body, prompting a major shift in the investigation Detectives from the Major Investigations Division then intensified their probe, focusing on forensic and ballistic evidence

Sources have indicated that a unique ballistic identifier maintained by the Firearm Licensing Authority was used to link the fatal bullets to a firearm licensed to Silvera Investigators were able to make that connection despite initial tests suggesting the weapon had not been fired

Silvera was arrested on January 18, 2024, six days after his wife’s burial, and was charged the following day with murder and using a firearm to commit a felony under the Firearms (Prohibition,

Guyana president

says CARICOM differences should not be seen as divisive

Guyana’s President, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Monday said that differences of opinion within the 15-member regional integration grouping, Caricom, should not be viewed as “divisive,” as he sought to soften the impact of recent tensions within the regional movement

“While we must strive earnestly for consensus, a plurality of views, and at times divergence in perspectives are essential to the vitality of our deliberations,” Ali said while addressing a joint session of the Belize Parliament

Ali, who is on a three-day state visit to the Caricom country, said that differing positions among member states can strengthen the regional bloc rather than weaken it

“Such diversity sharpens analysis, strengthens decision-making, and ensures that outcomes are more inclusive and reflective of our lived realities Respectful disagreements are not a source of fragmentation,” he said

The Guyanese leader noted that Caricom has remained resilient and relevant for more than 50 years, despite a rapidly changing global environment, but acknowledged that reforms are necessary to ensure its continued effectiveness

“It is now incumbent upon us to make the community stronger, more responsive, and better equipped to serve both the collective and national interests of our peoples This requires renewal, commitment, and a shared sense of purpose,” Ali said

Caricom leaders are scheduled to meet in St Kitts and Nevis from February 24–27 In recent months, however, the integration movement has faced renewed scrutiny, particularly from Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who has been critical of the bloc following her country’s support for the United States’ war on drugs in the Caribbean

Last December, Persad-Bissessar said the regional organisation was “not a reliable partner at this time,” arguing that every sovereign state must be prepared to accept the consequences of its foreign and domestic policy choices Her comments came as she defended the United States’ announcement of partial entry restrictions on nationals of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica

“Caricom cannot continue to operate in this dysfunctional and self-destructive manner,” PersadBissessar said, citing what she described as poor management, lax accountability, factional divisions, destabilising policies, and inappropriate meddling in domestic politics by some member states

She also said that the organisation’s support for the then Nicolas Maduro regime in Venezuela — which has been accused of human rights violations and threatening Caricom members further undermines its credibility Persad-Bissessar insisted that the Caribbean cannot be described as a zone of peace, pointing to the region’s violent and deadly crime levels

Trinidad government moves to tax Carnival artists

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is introducing taxes on earnings by local artists during Carnival 2026

The Inland Revenue Division (IRD) of the Ministry of Finance on January 12 advised promoters, bandleaders, and local and foreign artistes of their obligations, which include income tax, corporation tax, health surcharge, green fund levy, and VAT registration for promoters with gross receipts of $600,000 or more Foreign artistes will be subject to withholding tax, which must be deducted and remitted by promoters Bandleaders are also required to comply with similar tax obligations

The Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) said it will address the issue after Carnival Its president, Ainsley King, acknowledged that implementing new taxes during the busy Carnival season could be challenging and that discussions with stakeholders will follow once the festival concludes Some promoters confirmed they have already been VAT-registered and compliant with tax laws, while smaller bands expressed concern over the additional financial burden, noting that declining band participation and rising costs may affect their operations

Although the IRD has announced field visits to ensure compliance, none of the stakeholders contacted so far reported being visited. This marks the first serious government attempt in over a decade to enforce taxes on Carnival earnings, with previous efforts in 2011 ultimately failing to take hold

Former NBA Star Rick Fox joins opposition

FNM slate ahead of Bahamas election

Former NBA star Rick Fox has been officially ratified as the Free National Movement’s (FNM) candidate for Garden Hills in the next Bahamian general election, despite months of publicly criticizing both major parties and hinting at a possible independent run Fox revealed that his three-year contract as an ambassador-atlarge, a government-appointed diplomatic role, was not renewed when it expired in 2024, despite earlier calls from PLP chairman Fred Mitchell for him to step aside

He was among 12 candidates ratified at the FNM headquarters on Mackey Street, bringing the party’s slate to 39 candidates as preparations for the upcoming election accelerate The next election is due by September this year

Speaking after his ratification, Fox said he felt “overwhelmed but grateful” for the trust placed in him to represent Garden Hills He explained that his decision to enter politics now was motivated by the struggles facing Bahamians — experiences he claims he has lived firsthand

“The urgency increased I don’t have time to wait until I’m 65 to maybe entertain the idea of getting into frontline and being part of the policy changes,” he said Fox, who has frequently used social media to call for political reform, transparency, and national development, emphasized that his criticism has always been aimed at the political system rather than individuals

“This is the first time I’ll be doing this job so I don’t know what that’s like to do so I have a lot of respect for the people that have put

themselves forward in service,” he said “It’s not about criticising them It’s about looking at the results we got in the system and realizing that across the board, it’s not an easy system to operate in and to run ”

Asked why he chose to enter politics now, Fox said:

“So, why now? I met the leader and I got to know him ” He also addressed previous reports that he was interested in running in St James, noting that discussions with FNM leader Mr Pintard focused on broader strategy:

“It’s not about me and where I want to serve The focus was on where the team could be most effective ”

Regarding his prior diplomatic role, Fox added:

“I move like an ambassador always so if he’s looking at me and he sees an ambassador representing the people of The Bahamas, I’ve been doing that for 30 years so maybe he is confused. Maybe you should ask him why he didn’t know that I had resigned or hadn’t extended my contract because it was confusing to me as well ”

Other candidates ratified at the event included FNM Deputy Leader Shanendon Cartwright for St James, Carlton Bowleg for Bimini and the Berry Islands, Jay Philippe for Bains and Grants Town, Jamal Moss for St Barnabas, Janice Oliver for North Andros, Mike Holmes for Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador, Dr Charlene Reid for Pineridge, Darvin Russell for Centreville, Julian Gibson for Mangrove Cay and South Andros, and Gadville McDonald for Nassau Village

French Senate approves Martinique’s bid for CARICOM associate membership

The French Senate has approved Martinique’s request to become an associate member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), following the island’s signing of the accession agreement at last year ’ s CARICOM summit in Barbados

French officials stressed that the January 28 vote is not the final step in the process, as the agreement still requires examination and approval by the French National Assembly to complete the country’s legislative procedure Nonetheless, the Senate’s widely supported decision sends a strong political signal in favor of closer ties between the 15-member regional bloc and the French Caribbean territories

Created in 1973 under the Treaty of Chaguaramas, CARICOM brings together sovereign states and non-independent territories around common priorities including economic integration, mobility, climate resilience, public health, education, and cultural cooperation

For French territories, relations with CARICOM have historically been limited to oneoff partnerships or technical cooperation without an institutional framework French authorities say Martinique’s accession as an associate member aims to formalize these ties

Associate membership, reserved for nonsovereign territories, allows active participation in CARICOM programmes and initiatives but excludes sovereign powers, such as foreign policy decisions or voting rights on binding measures French officials also emphasized that the accession does not alter Martinique’s status as a French collectivity or its position as an outermost region of the European Union

“The Senate’s vote on January 28, 2026 opens a new phase for Martinique within CARICOM The challenge now is to transform this institutional framework into tangible projects and useful cooperation for the territory and its stakeholders,” said Richès Karayib, a Frenchbased media platform showcasing Caribbean culture, heritage, and tourism

“Membership is not a symbolic achievement, but the starting point for regional participation that will be translated into action in the service of Martinique’s development and integration into the Caribbean,” the platform added

Prime Minister Phillip J Pierre has confirmed that the United States has called on St Lucia to stop sending its nationals to Cuba to study medicine, a move he says poses a serious challenge for the island’s already strained health sector

“I have a big problem Many of our doctors got trained in Cuba, and now the great United States has said we can’t do that any longer,” Pierre told a weekend meeting of the second World Congress on Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities

“This is a major problem I have to face,” Pierre said

The prime minister also raised concerns about the wider implications for cooperation with Cuban medical professionals “We also have Cubans who come over to work So the American government has said we can’t even train them in Cuba So I have a major issue on my hands,” Pierre told the conference Pierre said many of St Lucia’s doctors received their medical training in Cuba and that Washington has now taken the position that this long-standing arrangement can no longer continue, increasing pressure on the country’s healthcare system He attributed the

shift to United States geopolitical pressures and urged the diaspora, along with innovative local initiatives, to help the country navigate the emerging challenges

The issue has been gaining prominence across the region Last month, the US Embassy in Barbados said the Cuban regime’s “medical missions” programme, which has benefited several Caribbean countries, “relies on coercion and abuse ”

“Cuban medical workers face withheld wages, confiscated passports, forced family

separation and exile, restriction of movement through curfews and surveillance, intimidation and threats, and even pressure to falsify medical records and fabricate procedures

Many also endure excessive work hours and unsafe conditions,” the embassy said

Despite the concerns, the chair of the Congress, Sir Cato Laurencin, an orthopedic surgeon and senior academic based in the United States, said St Lucia is not without alternatives

“Those of us in the diaspora with St Lucian roots need to work more closely with St Lucia There are physicians here who want to be part of the new hospital system and support the country’s healthcare development,” Laurencin said, pointing to initiatives linked to the University of Connecticut’s institute as possible models

Laurencin also highlighted programmes focused on fitness, healthy lifestyles, and local food cultivation, noting that such efforts are becoming increasingly important as Washington has outlined concerns about Cuban medical missions through official diplomatic channels in the Eastern Caribbean Pierre also addressed the financial strain

facing the health sector, particularly the longdelayed re-opening of the St Jude Hospital in Vieux Fort He said commissioning the facility is expected to cost about US$50 million, an amount the national budget cannot absorb

The prime minister said his administration has explored using the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CBI) — which grants citizenship to foreign investors in exchange for substantial contributions to national development — as one option to help bridge the funding gap

“These disparities, apart from social and economic, must filter down into our health care system We have tried in St Lucia to have a school feeding programme where we try to ensure that our kids get at least one nutritious meal a day

“But sometimes the funders determine that you have to buy certain foods I have no choice,” he said, urging Caribbean people to rethink lifestyles and long-term approaches as the region confronts mounting health and economic pressures

US judge blocks termination of TPS for Haitians one day before expiration

A federal judge on Monday blocked the US government from revoking legal protections for Haitians enrolled in the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, granting a last-minute reprieve to an estimated 350,000 immigrants who were set to lose their deportation protections on Tuesday

US District Court Judge Ana Reyes indefinitely paused the planned termination of Haiti’s TPS designation, explicitly barring the federal government from invalidating the legal status and work permits of active enrollees, as well as from arresting and deporting them

In an opinion accompanying her order, Reyes sharply criticized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s decision to end the TPS policy for Haitians The judge concluded that Noem’s action was “arbitrary and capricious” and in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act

Reyes wrote that the decision failed to adequately consider “overwhelming evidence

of present danger” in Haiti, a country facing ongoing political instability, rampant gang violence, and widespread poverty

The judge also found that Noem’s decision was “in part” rooted in “racial animus,” citing disparaging remarks that have been made about Haiti and immigrants

In response, Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin said the Trump administration is considering asking the Supreme Court to intervene in the case

The blocked termination would have had a significant impact on communities such as South Florida, which is home to tens of thousands of Haitian immigrants who rely on TPS to live and work legally in the United States

MSF warns of surge in sexual violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Sexual and gender-based violence has surged dramatically in Haiti’s capital over the past four years and is being used systematically to terrorize communities, particularly women and girls, according to a new report released last Wednesday by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

The report, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, documents a sharp rise in attacks since 2021, unfolding alongside the collapse of public infrastructure, worsening insecurity, and deteriorating living conditions across the city

MSF says the number of survivors seeking care at its Pran Men’m clinic has nearly tripled, rising from an average of 95 admissions per month in 2021 to more than 250 per month in 2025

“This shows how the explosion of violence in Haiti in recent years has had a direct impact on the bodies of women and girls in Port-au-Prince,” said Diana Manilla Arroyo, MSF’s head of mission in Haiti

According to the report, women and girls of all ages are being targeted, with a growing number of survivors forcibly displaced from their homes — a condition that further exposes them to violence

Nearly one in five survivors treated at Pran Men’m reported experiencing multiple incidents of sexual and gender-based violence

MSF also documented a disturbing escalation in the brutality of attacks. Since 2022, 57 percent of survivors receiving care reported being assaulted by members of armed groups, often in group attacks involving multiple perpetrators More than 100 patients said they were assaulted by 10 or more perpetrators at once

One 53-year-old survivor quoted in the report described being beaten and assaulted along with her family “When I refused to sleep with them, they hit me and I fell,” she said “After raping me, they raped my daughter and beat my husband ” The report underscores severe gaps in services available to survivors beyond medical care MSF says it is often unable to refer patients to essential non-medical support such as safe shelters, relocation options, or livelihood assistance — services that are critical for long-term recovery

Survivors also face significant barriers to accessing care, including fear of stigma, financial hardship, insecurity, and lack of information These delays have serious medical consequences Since 2022, only one-third of survivors arrived at the Pran Men’m clinic within three days of their assault, the window during which HIV prevention treatment is effective Additionally, 59 percent were unable to access care within five days to prevent unwanted pregnancy

Against this backdrop, MSF highlighted recent efforts to strengthen sexual and reproductive health services, including the reopening of the Isaïe Jeanty Hospital in Chancerelles — the largest maternal health facility in Port-au-Prince — and the planned launch of a new MSF sexual and reproductive health project in the coming months

The organization is calling for urgent, coordinated action by Haitian authorities, donors, United Nations agencies, and security actors to implement a survivorcentered response focused on long-term recovery

“We call for expanded access to comprehensive medical and psychosocial care free of charge, which can only be achieved through a sustainable increase in funding for support services,” Manilla Arroyo said She also urged recognition of the widespread and deliberate use of sexual violence by armed groups “These are the challenges that must be addressed to empower survivors to regain control of their bodies and their lives ”

EDITORIAL

Reggae Month needs more ‘Soul’

ByLeoGilling,CNWContributor

Black History Month (African American History Month) is celebrated in February because it coincides with the birthday of two significant figures in America’s history

First, Abraham Lincoln, former President of the United States, was born on February 12th, and Frederick Douglass, a former enslaved African American, chose February 14th as his birthday Mr Douglas was a social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman who ran away from enslavement and fought for equality and justice for all people He did not know his actual birthdate Black History Month was built on Black History Week, which was started in the second week of February in 1926 Black communities have celebrated both persons’ birthdays since the late 19th century

Like Lincoln and Douglas, Reggae Month, celebrated in Jamaica, is recognized in February to acknowledge the birthdays, the life, and works of Dennis Emanuel Brown on February 1st and Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley on February 6th Both individuals are significant figures in the history of Jamaican music, Bob from inception and Dennis, a childhood phenomenon

Dennis Brown recorded his first single (a Rocksteady song) as a child, age 12 However, Bob Marley with Bunny Livingston and Peter McIntosh (Tosh), then known as the Wailing Wailers, recorded tracks in the era of Ska, Reggae Love Songs, and Rocksteady, the origins of what we now know as Reggae music

The government of Jamaica officially announced the Month of February as Reggae Month on January 9th, 2009, and the Proclamation read by Sir Keith Hall on January 24th, the same year, to acknowledge the reggae genre as endemically Jamaican and the impact and contribution the music made to Jamaica and the rest of the world Many activities are planned each year as part of the celebration of Reggae Month, including tributes to various original creators of the different types of Jamaican music: Ska, Rocksteady, lovers-rock, and dancehall

Almost daily, during February, Jamaica, the Diaspora, and the world are entertained by

televised and social media, live and recorded performances, panel discussions, and interviews depicting this central part of our culture each night There are missing pieces

However, that could be highlighted, streamlined, and captured to retain the foundation from which our music is derived But the JCDC does a beautiful job capturing most Dr Sylvanus Thompson remarked, “I watched the Bob Marley celebration at Emancipation Park this year and was impressed with the production I found the event extraordinarily reminiscent and relaxing Given Bob’s international reach, it was great that they included Exco Levi from Canada and an African artist to perform on the show ”

It is a good time in history when we can bring Jamaica’s musical journey together for the world to see Jamaican musical history is culturally rich and exciting, with all kinds of Jamaican music for everyone, as far back as Mento from the 1830s with Lord Flea, Count Lasher, Stanley and the Turbines, Lord Tanamo, Lord Messam and his Calypsonians, Count Owen and his Calypsonians, Lord Composer, Harry Belafonte and more Mento was popular in the hotel industry, entertaining tourists on the beaches from the 1930s as live entertainment showcasing the banjo, rumba box, Goady shakers, and cast aluminum lap steel guitar electric guitar, sometimes with a steel pan Popular mento songs include Hill and Gully Ride, Matilda, Take Her to Jamaica, Yellow Bird, and Linstead Market

Ska music entered Jamaica as it became apparent that independence from Britain was imminent The country wanted a more upbeat type of music representing freedom from colonialism It got Derrick Morgan, Skatalites, Prince Buster, Desmond Dekker and the Aces, The Wailing Wailers, the Maytals, Lauren Aitkins, and many more artists The sound was made famous by big bands led by Don Drummond, Roland Alphonso, Dizzy Johnny Moore, Tommy McCook, Lester Sterling, Jackie Mittoo, Lloyd Brevette, Jah Jerry, and Lloyd Knibbs, who developed Ska Riddim’s instruments with names such as “Man in the Street” Guns of Navarone” and more

We could dig deeper to extract more of the

origin of the music Much of the type of music needs to be added to what is captured and shown to us during the Reggae Month Dr Beverly Fray, an avid lover of early reggae music, agreed, “I have always been a fan of Reggae Month However, this year, so far, I’ve been underwhelmed The reason is that many of the interviews and performances have been repeated from previous years Despite that, I would not miss nightly activities at all ” There is so much more to capture

The roots and culture era is also a forgotten favorite in Jamaica Music; the music of culture with Joseph Hill, Peter Tosh, Burning Spear, Coco T, the Ethiopians, and the Rastafarian and Niyabinghi Chants These were rootsy music depicting some of the hardships in Jamaica or the rastaman’s religious beliefs and practices Missing alongside this are the specials popularly recorded on dubplates The actual dancehall created a culture of competition using special dubs, initially drum-and-base, but later voiced by famous singers and toasters

To maintain the viability of what Reggae Month should encompass, I recommend that the Month be broken up into four Named Weeks, highlighted by unique names so each day is themed and easily recalled, planned for, and maintained each year accordingly That way, we look forward, artists can plan to insert their pieces, and the government plays its role in the highlight For example:

● Week 1 For Dennis Brown & Bob Marley

● Week 2 Mento, Ska, rocksteady, festival, 60s lovers rock Nyabinghi music and folklore

● Week 3 Singers of reggae, Roots & Culture, dub-poetry, Jamaica soca, and international

● Week 4 Sound systems, clash, dubplates, Soca, Dancehall

Each category can be designated 1, 2, or three days dedicated to it, depending on its impact

Jamaican music is eclectic and derived from a depth not experienced elsewhere worldwide It should be captured for fun, excitement, embodiment, and richness in Jamaican living and lifestyle Each era is varied and different Let us streamline it for posterity

HEALTH & WELLNESS

February marks National Cancer Prevention Month and World Cancer Day

February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and February 4th marks World Cancer Day, a global call to action to reduce the burden of cancer through prevention, early detection, and healthy lifestyle choices

Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, with lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, and stomach cancers among the most common The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in the United States alone,

approximately 1 9 milli cases were expected in 2

The good news is cancers can be preve health experts empha choices, vaccinations, ings as key preventive m

Healthy diet and we management:

Diets rich in fruit and whole grains, wh processed and red m lower cancer risk. Main a healthy weight is as ated with a lower risk breast, colorectal, a pancreatic cancers

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urging countries in the Americas to accelerate cervical cancer prevention and care efforts, warning that progress is falling short of meeting 2030 elimination targets despite gains in HPV vaccination

In a statement issued ahead of World Cancer Day on Feb 4, PAHO said that with just five years remaining to reach global goals, the current pace of implementation risks leaving thousands of women behind, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean

Each year, more than 78,000 women in the Americas are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and over 40,000 die from the disease

ity:

ercise at least 150 moderate activity per reduce the risk of cers, including colon

bacco and hol: e is responsible for of cancer deaths , while excessive nsumption increases of liver, breast, and ctal cancers

cinations: The HPV vaccine

helps prevent cervical and other HPV-related cancers, while the hepatitis B vaccine reduces the risk of liver cancer

Regular screenings: Mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears, and skin checks help detect cancers early, when treatment is most effective World Cancer Day this year encourages individuals and communities to “Close the Care Gap” by promoting awareness, early detection, and equitable access to preventive measures Health authorities urge everyone to schedule screenings, adopt healthier lifestyles, and educate others on cancer risks By taking proactive steps, individuals can significantly reduce their cancer risk and contribute to a global effort to save lives

PAHO urges faster action to eliminate cervical cancer in the Americas

PAHO estimates that 83% of these deaths occur in Latin America and the Caribbean, where mortality rates are three times higher than in North America, reflecting stark disparities in access to prevention, early detection, and timely treatment

Cervical cancer is among more than 30 diseases targeted under PAHO’s Disease Elimination Initiative To achieve elimination by 2030, countries must reach three benchmarks: vaccinating 90% of girls against human papillomavirus (HPV) before age 15; screening 70% of women using highperformance tests at ages 35 and 45; and ensuring treatment for 90% of women diagnosed with precancerous lesions or invasive cervical cancer

“Important progress is already being seen in the Region,” PAHO Director Dr Jarbas Barbosa said in a video message He noted that the HPV vaccine is now available in 49 of the

51 countries and territories in the Americas, with first-dose programmatic coverage reaching 70% among women Barbosa added that 24 countries and territories have adopted a single-dose HPV vaccine schedule, a move that significantly improves coverage

However, PAHO said major gaps remain in screening and treatment While 14 countries have introduced HPV testing into their screening programs, overall coverage remains low and data reporting is limited Treatment capacity also remains uneven, with only 18 countries reporting the availability of radiotherapy services

If current trends continue, PAHO projects that cervical cancer deaths in the Americas could exceed 46,200 by 2030, underscoring the urgency of scaling up proven, cost-effective interventions

To support countries, PAHO is providing technical cooperation to develop national

plans for comprehensive cervical cancer care

Through its Regional Revolving Funds, member states can access HPV vaccines, screening tests, colposcopes, thermal ablation devices, and electrosurgical equipment at reduced costs PAHO said integrating these tools into primary health care systems is critical to closing access gaps The organization is also working with partners, including Unitaid and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, to strengthen prevention, detection, and treatment efforts across the region

HEALTH & WELLNESS

HEALTHY HABiTS FOR YOUR HEART

February is American Hea Month a time to focus o protecting one of the mos organs in your body: your h Heart disease remains the l cause of death in the Unit States, accounting for nea 697,000 deaths in 2020, a ing to the Centers for Dise Control and Prevention (C The good news is that ma heart-related problems ar preventable, and small life changes can make a big d ence

Here are practical habits to he your heart healthy:

STAY PHYSiCALLY ACTiVE

Regular exercise strengthens improves circulation, and helps healthy weight Adults should aim 150 minutes of moderate activity such as brisk walking, cycling, sw even dancing Incorporating stren a few times a week also supports heart health and overall fitness

AVOiD SMOKiNG AND LiMiT

ALCOHOL

Tobacco damages blood vessels and increases your risk of heart disease, while excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and heart failure Quitting smoking and drinking in moderation are critical steps to protect your heart

within a healthy range lowers your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems Work with your healthcare provider to understand your personal risk and take action when needed MANAGE STRESS AND PRiORiTiZE

SLEEP

Chronic stress, anxiety, and insufficient sleep can negatively affect heart health. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing, journaling, or simply taking time to relax can lower stress levels Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night to

our heart and body time to recover and

T A HEART-SMART DiET

ur diet has a direct impact on your heart Aim to fill at least half your plate with and vegetables, include whole grains, hoose lean protein sources like fish, y, or legumes Limit foods high in salt, d sugars, and saturated fats, which can blood pressure and cholesterol levwo major contributors to heart disease

W THE WARNiNG SiGNS eart problems can develop silently, but symptoms chest pain, shortness of h, dizziness, or irregular heartshould never be ignored. Seek medical on immediately if you experience any of igns

Y CONNECTED AND SUPPORTED aintaining strong social connections can ve mental health and reduce stress, both ch benefit heart health Participate in unity activities, exercise with a friend, or y spend quality time with family

merican Heart Month is the perfect tunity to take stock of your heart health and commit to positive changes Even small, consistent steps like adding an extra serving of vegetables, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or practicing a few minutes of daily mindfulness can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease over time

By adopting these habits and making heart health a priority, you can strengthen your heart, boost your energy, and enjoy a longer, healthier life Your heart works hard for you every day February is the perfect time to return the favor

COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

pleads not guilty to fraud charges

Haitian-American U S Rep Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla ) pleaded not guilty on Monday to federal charges alleging she conspired to steal $5 million in federal disaster funds during the COVID-19 pandemic and diverted some of the money into her congressional campaign

Cherfilus-McCormick’s attorney, William Barzee, informed the court of her plea through a docket filing and said the Florida congresswoman would waive her appearance at an arraignment scheduled for Tuesday She faces 15 federal counts accusing her of retaining Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds that were allegedly overpaid to her family’s healthcare company, Trinity Healthcare Services, where she previously served as CEO

Prosecutors allege that CherfilusMcCormick and her brother, Edwin Cherfilus, received the funds in July 2021 while Trinity Healthcare Services was working on a FEMAfunded staffing contract related to COVID-19

vaccination efforts Rather than returning the overpayment, the siblings are accused of routing the money through multiple accounts to disguise its source and retain the funds

According to the indictment, within two months of receiving the FEMA funds, more than $100,000 was used to purchase a 3-carat yellow diamond ring for the congresswoman

The ring resurfaced in public discussion late last year after it appeared to have been edited out of a Christmas post shared on Cherfilus-McCormick’s X account, which featured her official congressional portrait

When the charges were initially announced, Cherfilus-McCormick described them as an “unjust, baseless sham indictment ” She was released on a $60,000 bond after surrendering her passport

If convicted, the congresswoman could face more than 50 years in prison, though firsttime offenders are rarely sentenced to the maximum Her brother could face up to 35 years in prison

In addition to the criminal case, CherfilusMcCormick is facing scrutiny from the Office of Congressional Ethics The House Ethics Committee released a report last week stating that it found “substantial reason to believe” she violated multiple laws, regulations and standards of conduct

According to the report, the committee’s

investigative subcommittee is bringing charges related to campaign finance laws and regulations, criminal laws implicated by campaign finance misconduct, the Ethics in Government Act, the Code of Ethics for Government Service, and certain House rules

“The ISC’s investigation has revealed substantial evidence of conduct consistent with the allegations in the indictment, as well as more extensive misconduct as laid out in the following Statement of Facts in Support of Alleged Violations related to violations of federal laws and regulations, as well as ethical standards,” the investigative subcommittee stated

Attorney Michael Stroud, representing Cherfilus-McCormick in the ethics matter, asked the panel to pause its proceedings while the criminal case is ongoing and to dismiss the investigation, which began in June

An adjudicatory subcommittee is scheduled to hold a hearing on the matter on March 5

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office launches Distracted Driving Safety Program

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office has launched a Distracted Driving Safety Program aimed at reducing traffic crashes caused by careless and distracted driving, officials announced Monday

Careless driving including behaviors such as texting, eating, or interacting with in-vehicle systems has been identified as the most common cause of traffic crashes in Miami-Dade County According to the Florida Department of Transportation, Florida recorded 48,537 motor vehicle crashes involving distracted driving in 2021, resulting in 2,756 serious injuries and 308 fatalities

To address the issue, the Florida Department of Transportation initiated the “Put It Down” Distracted Driving Campaign, which focuses on public education and awareness to promote safer driving practices statewide

In support of those efforts, the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Motorcycle Units will conduct specialized enforcement operations throughout the county to educate motorists and enforce distracted driving violations. Enforcement locations will be determined using datadriven crash and violation statistics

Florida law allows officers to stop and cite drivers for certain distracted driving behaviors Under Section 316 305 of the Florida Statutes, law enforcement may issue citations to motorists who are texting and driving The law prohibits manually typing or entering multiple letters, numbers, or symbols into a wireless communications device for texting, emailing, or instant messaging while operating a motor vehicle

Additionally, Section 316 306 of the Florida Statutes prohibits the use of handheld wireless communications devices in designated school zones, school crossings, and active work zones An active work zone is defined as an area where construction personnel are present or equipment is being operated on or adjacent to the roadway

The Distracted Driving Safety Program will run from February 2, 2026, through September 30, 2026

Enforcement efforts officially began at 7 a m on February 2 and will continue across various areas of Miami-Dade County

Officials say the initiative is intended to improve roadway safety and reduce preventable injuries and fatalities linked to distracted driving

COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA

Sheriff Tony highlights role of Inspector General in strengthening BSO

Broward Sheriff Dr Gregory Tony used his February 2026 message to underscore what he called a core promise of his leadership: keeping Broward County safe while holding the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) to the highest professional and ethical standards

“From my first day as sheriff, I made a promise the Broward Sheriff’s Office would keep Broward County safe while operating at the highest professional standards,” Tony said “That commitment led me to establish the Office of Inspector General in 2021, embedding accountability and transparency into every aspect of BSO’s work ”

Tony said the creation of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) was designed to strengthen public trust and reinforce integrity across the agency

“ U p h o l d i n g t h e s e h i g h standards strengthens our organization, reinforces our integrity and makes our communities safer,” he said

According to Tony, the OIG provides independent oversight through three divisions — Internal Affairs and Public Corruption, Policy and Accountability, and

Internal Audit — each staffed by sworn and civilian professionals focused on ethical, efficient and fiscally responsible operations

recommends policy improvements and holds employees accountable when standards are not met,” he said “This oversight enhances operational effectiveness, reduces risk and ensures public safety operations are conducted efficiently, ethically and in a manner the community can rely on ”

He also highlighted the role of the Division of Policy and Accountability in setting clear expectations for employees

“The Policy Unit routinely reviews and updates policies to align with state and federal laws, accreditation standards and community expectations,” Tony said, noting that this provides personnel with “clear guidance to perform their duties safely and professionally ”

Within the division, Tony said the Research Unit plays a key role in shaping operations

“These systems provide deputies with real-time data to identify threats and protect the public,” he said “Strict compliance requirements ensure that information is accessed, shared and safeguarded appropriately ” The Division of Internal Audit, Tony said, adds another critical layer of accountability “ I t c o n d u c t s fi n a n c i a l , operational and performance audits across the organization,” he said “Detailed reports with actionable findings and recommendations help optimize resource allocation while protecting taxpayer dollars ” Tony said the Office of Inspector General ultimately serves the broader community

Tony added that the division’s work goes beyond individual cases

“By conducting comprehensive, evidence-based reviews, the OIG identifies patterns of misconduct,

“The Division of Internal Affairs and Public Corruption investigates allegations of misconduct, including use of force and firearms discharge incidents, thoroughly and objectively,” Tony said “These investigations assess whether actions are consistent with BSO standards, ensuring personnel serve the public with integrity and professionalism ”

Why the fuss?

Here’s the crucial truth behind that frustration: The Grammys are not decided by fans, charts, or streaming Many people assume the Grammy Awards reflect popularity or streaming success, but that’s not how it works

The Grammys are run by the Recording Academy, a private nonprofit membership institution, and only approved voting members decide nominations and winners

That means:

• Fans do not vote

• Charts do not vote

• Streams do not determine the winner

• Sales alone don’t decide nominations

Instead, artists are nominated and judged by industry professionals peers, producers, engineers, songwriters, and experienced recording artists

This is a peer recognition system, not a popularity contest

How an artist gets on the Grammy ballot

Music does not automatically get considered simply by being popular in Jamaica or on global streaming platforms

To be eligible:

• A project must be officially released within the eligibility window

• It must be properly submitted by the artist, label, or representative

• All deadlines and category rules must be followed

• No submission means no ballot, even if the song or album is a local smash

Unsigned or independent artists can be nominated, and Keznamdi is living proof But missed deadlines, incomplete submissions, or a lack of industry navigation can halt recognition long before votes are cast

Familiarity and visibility matter

While streaming figures don’t directly count, the members who vote are human, and they tend to recognize music that has, Industry buzz, press attention and critical conversations among peers

This doesn’t mean popularity in Jamaica alone will win a Grammy, but industry visibility and familiarity with voters certainly help

Roots reggae vs. dancehall: why confusion happens

Many Jamaicans were puzzled again this year because the Grammy category is called Best Reggae Album, yet nominees span roots reggae, modern conscious styles, and even influences from dancehall culture

That’s because the Recording Academy uses broad definitions of reggae

Dancehall and trap, although born from reggae culture, are not given their own distinct Grammy category

This creates confusion, especially when the music dominating our airwaves dancehall and its subgenres is not exactly the type of music Grammy voters tend to reward

And that’s why I have long said: Dancehall deserves its own category

Separating dancehall from reggae at

“It applies data-driven analysis to identify trends, enhance operations and guide resources where they will have the greatest impact on community safety,” he said Tony also pointed to additional safeguards, including the Criminal Justice Information Services Compliance Unit

the Grammys would better reflect the distinct musical identities we produce in Jamaica and avoid misunderstandings among international fans who hear “reggae” and expect more roots-oriented sounds

Keznamdi’s win: a big moment for Jamaican music

Even though some Jamaicans might question the category, Keznamdi’s Grammy win is historic He beat out established names like, Vybz Kartel, Jesse Royal, Lila Iké and Mortimer to take home the top honor

And that should make us proud, not disappointed

This is a call for better industry awareness in Jamaica We must help artists and managers understand, how the Grammy submission process works, how categories are defined, and how industry connections and visibility influence outcomes

Talent alone is not enough Strategy, preparation, and professional navigation matter Keznamdi’s success should inspire young Jamaican artists to pursue both creativity and industry intelligence

Big up yourself, Keznamdi, and big up all Jamaican music in every genre and every evolution

Let’s celebrate our victories, understand the system, and continue pushing Jamaican music to the world with clarity and pride

“The OIG plays a vital role in upholding integrity, accountability and transparency at BSO,” he said “Through oversight and collaboration, these divisions guide policy, support sound decision-making and protect public resources, delivering reliable and trusted service to the residents and visitors of Broward County ” Residents can learn more about the Office of Inspector General, review the OIG Annual Report or explore employment opportunities by visiting sheriff org

Restriction and Regulation) Act He has remained in custody since his arrest and had consistently maintained his innocence until entering the guilty plea this week

Following the presentation of additional ballistic evidence to the court, Silvera on Monday pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the basis of provocation Legal experts note that while a conviction for murder carries a mandatory life sentence, manslaughter attracts no mandatory penalty, although sentences exceeding 20 years are rare

Legal analyst Odane Marston, who is not involved in the case, explained that manslaughter applies where death is caused without the intent required for murder and can arise in circumstances involving provocation or certain mental abnormalities

At the time of Silvera’s arrest, then Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey, now serving as commissioner of police in the Turks and Caicos Islands, said investigators had followed several lines of inquiry and were satisfied there was sufficient evidence to support a viable prosecution

The case, which has drawn intense public attention because of Silvera’s political profile, was delayed earlier to allow for further examination of ballistic evidence It is being tried in the Gun Court, where proceedings are subject to strict statutory rules, including limits on public access

Silvera is represented by King’s Counsel Peter Champagnie and attorney Patrice Riley The Crown is led by prosecutors Dwayne Green and Latoya Bernard

The Silveras’ family tragedy has been compounded by the earlier loss of their third son, Justin, who drowned in the family’s swimming pool in 2017 at the age of two The couple, who married in 2015, are survived by three sons

Chief Justice Sykes’ ruling on Thursday will determine whether Silvera’s plea to manslaughter is accepted by the court, paving the way for sentencing in one of the country’s most closely watched criminal cases in recent years

Desulme noted that conditions in Haiti remain dire, citing violence, political instability, and an ongoing humanitarian crisis

“Haiti continues to endure extraordinary levels of violence, political turmoil, and humanitarian crisis,” he said “Removing protections in the midst of these conditions would have caused real harm to families who have done nothing more than seek safety and contribute positively to the communities they call home ”

He also emphasized the contributions of Haitians to communities across the United States “The Haitian community is resilient, hardworking, and deeply woven into the fabric of cities across this nation, including our own,” Desulme said “This ruling affirms the importance of compassion, humanity, and fairness in our immigration policies ”

Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins also praised the ruling, highlighting the potential disruption that would have resulted from a sudden termination of TPS protections

“I welcome and celebrate today’s court decision protecting Temporary Protected Status for Haitian families who have been living and working legally in our country,” Higgins said in a statement issued Monday “A last-minute termination would have created unnecessary disruption for workers, employers, schools, and neighborhoods, and this ruling provides much-needed stability while the case moves forward ”

Higgins added that Miami’s identity is closely tied to its immigrant population “Miami is a city of immigrants, built by immigrants, and our Haitian community is part of what makes our city strong,” she said

Dante Hillmedo tells diaspora stories rooted in community COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA

In the Bronx, Caribbean culture is not a destination but a way of life

From block parties and basement studios to church halls and school auditoriums, the borough has long served as a hub for Jamaican, Trinidadian, Haitian, and wider West Indian communities building new lives while staying closely connected to home

For Bronx-born filmmaker Dante Hillmedo, that environment shaped not only who he is, but how he tells stories

Raised by Jamaican parents, Hillmedo grew up immersed in the sounds, discipline, and resilience of Caribbean immigrant life in New York City Those influences are central to his work, which reflects experiences familiar to many Caribbean-American families, including single-parent households, financial pressure, cultural pride, and the quiet strength required to navigate two worlds at once

Hillmedo’s journey into filmmaking mirrors that of many children of immigrants — marked by ambition, adaptability, and necessity He enrolled at the School of Visual Arts with plans to become an animator, but financial challenges forced him to leave after his first year Rather than abandon his creative path, he taught himself videography and secured his first paid opportunity through a Craigslist post, filming Caribbean DJ DJ Mad Out, an early step that embedded him in New York’s Caribbean creative ecosystem

That entry point led to work with artists such as Shaggy, Ding Dong, and Kranium, allowing Hillmedo to document Caribbean culture from within the community His

visuals extended beyond performances, capturing movement, identity, and collective experience

“My goal has always been to make people feel seen,” Hillmedo says. “Caribbean stories are layered We come from strength, sacrifice, and survival I want that truth to live on screen ”

Hillmedo now leads Team Elite Productions, a visual production company known for discretion, excellence, and cultural respect His work has brought him into elite spaces, including documenting events for Michael Rubin and capturing moments connected to Jay-Z’s Shawn Carter Foundation, while remaining grounded in the Bronx communities that shaped him He has also collaborated with outlets such as Essence Magazine, helping bridge mainstream platforms with diaspora-centered storytelling

His most personal project to date is his

debut feature film, Butterfly, which won Best Feature Film at the Big Apple Film Festival in Spring 2025 The film follows a teenage girl growing up in a single-parent immigrant household in New York City who uses dance to cope with identity, pressure, and instability. The story draws heavily from Hillmedo’s own upbringing and reflects the lived realities of many Caribbean-American youth navigating school, home, and self-discovery in the Bronx and beyond

Rather than relying on spectacle, Butterfly centers emotional realism, focusing on quiet moments, generational tension, and creative expression as a form of survival The narrative resonates with families across the Caribbean diaspora

Beyond filmmaking, Hillmedo continues to invest in community development He recently launched Lunessence, a luxury fragrance brand inspired by memory and mood, and has spent six years teaching film and music production at a Riverdale high school There, he introduced students — many from Caribbean and immigrant backgrounds — to creative career paths often absent from traditional education pipelines

As Butterfly prepares for wider distribution and Hillmedo expands his creative ventures, his work stands as an example of Bronx Caribbean excellence, demonstrating that stories rooted in immigrant households and local communities can reach far beyond borough lines without losing their core

ENTERTAINMENT

Kevin Lyttle to headline One Tamarac Multicultural Festival

International recording artist Kevin Lyttle will headline the City of Tamarac’s annual One Tamarac Multicultural Festival, set for Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Tamarac Sports Complex

The free community event begins at 4 p m at 9901 NW 77th St and is open to the public Lyttle, best known for his global hit “Turn Me On,” is expected to cap off an evening celebrating cultural diversity through music, dance, food and family-friendly activities

The festival will open with a high-energy welcome from host and local entrepreneur Ludil, followed by a Samba Carnival performance on the community stage and a cultural showcase by a flamenco dance troupe Organizers say the program reflects the city’s

commitment to highlighting a wide range of cultural traditions

Beyond the stage, attendees can enjoy a family attraction zone featuring face painting, teacup and carousel rides, bounce houses and a rock-climbing wall

This year ’ s festival will also introduce a sensory-friendly area designed to support children and families who may need a calmer environment The designated space will offer a quieter setting away from loud music and large crowds, allowing children to relax and decompress City officials said the initiative aims to make the festival more inclusive and accessible for families with sensory sensitivities or developmental differences

The event will also feature a Cultural Shop Village with food trucks and artisan vendors, giving guests the opportunity to sample international cuisine and shop while enjoying live performances throughout the evening

As night falls, a laser light show will close out the festival

Admission to One Tamarac is free, but there will be no on-site parking at the Tamarac Sports Complex Attendees must use the city’s free shuttle service, which will operate continuously from 3 to 9 p m

Shuttle pickup locations include:

• Tamarac City Hall (Grenada Lot), 7525 NW 88th Ave

• Tamarac Community Center (Barbados Lot), 8501 W Commercial Blvd

• Tamarac Recreation Center (Trinidad and Tobago Lot), 7501 N University Dr

The last shuttle drop-off at the Tamarac Sports Complex will be at 7:30 p m , with return trips resuming at 8 p m

Wickie Wackie Music Festival set for February12 – 14

Against the backdrop of resilience and recovery, the Wickie Wackie Music Festival (WWMF) gears up to return for its third year, defying the challenges posed by the recent storm As an officially endorsed event of Reggae Month, the festival will once again transform Bull Bay’s iconic black sand shores into a vibrant stage of cultural celebration from February 12 to 14, 2026 From emerging talent to legendary acts, this year ’ s “Future, Fyah, Foundation” theme carries new meaning as we honor those who built the foundation we stand on The festival kicks off with the “Future” on Thursday, February 12, spotlighting emerging talent from our “Unda Da Almond Tree” sister series Performers such as Jah Vezel, Ineezi, Cungo1, Dhavid Slur, Jônelle, Spechinal, and Sashoné, along with the Affirmation Band, will

grace the stage, showcasing the vibrant future of Jamaican music This year, we proudly feature from Germany, the ‘reggaecore’ band Rhaatid, singer/songwriter Toke, and the soundsystem SoundQuake

Jamaica’s own YaadCore, T’Jean, and MediSun will headline the evening, promising

performances that illuminate a musical future that demands to be heard Uncle Ronnie closes the night with a strictly vinyl selection, welcoming home the Vinyl Thursday crew a roots party born in Kingston that found a second home in Germany

In this heartfelt family reunion, Soundquake and King Harrar Sound channel the spirit of classic soundsystem dance with artists and toasters that recall the golden era of Stonelove and Studio One

To showcase our deep reverence for soundsystem culture, Uncle Ronnie has invited SoundWave to bring their massive stacks of analog equipment, ensuring a sonic experience with rich bass that will excite festival-goers throughout the weekend

As Friday, February 13, commences, the “Fyah” theme ignites with a classic roots dance

and Soundsystem Culture Clash The night bursts with energy as Gabre Selassie from Kingston Dub Club hits the stacks with vocalists like Daweh Congo & Ras Shiloh. The fiery evening peaks with a Roots Culture Clash, pitting SoundWave Sound against CaveMan Sound

On Saturday, February 14, the “Foundation” theme pays homage through legendary live band performances. Kumar Fyah plans to deliver a standout set alongside luminaries like Etana and Turbulence Reggae Ambassadors Third World will take the stage to celebrate Cat Coore’s life, artistry, and the indelible mark he left on reggae music and all who were blessed to witness his gift Honoring the foundation will also include performances by The Abyssinians, Billy Mystic and selections by Rory from StoneLove

Miller’s header sends Young Reggae Girlz marching on Tyra GittensSpotsville soars to

Jamaica’s Under-17 Reggae Girlz delivered a performance defined by composure and resolve on Monday night, edging Honduras 1-0 at the Stadion Guillermo Prospero Trinidad in Oranjestad, Aruba, to secure automatic qualification to the final round of the 2026 Concacaf Women’s Under-17 World Cup Qualifiers.

The victory sealed Jamaica’s place as one of six group winners advancing from the first phase and capped a commanding campaign that underscored the program’s growing maturity on the regional stage

In a tightly contested top-of-the-table showdown, the breakthrough arrived just before halftime Elizabeth Miller rose above the Honduran defense in the 44th minute to head home a precisely delivered corner kick from Shennell Walters, giving Jamaica a crucial lead in a match where margins were always going to be slim

That goal ultimately proved decisive, shifting the pressure squarely onto Honduras and giving the Young Reggae Girlz a platform to manage the contest under increasingly difficult circumstances

Holding firm with 10 players

Jamaica’s challenge intensified early in the second half when Ricquanna Richards was shown a red card in the 57th minute, forcing the Caribbean side to navigate more than half an hour a player down against an aggressive Honduran attack

What followed was a disciplined defensive display marked by compact shape, collective workrate, and calm decision-making Jamaica

years

Group D secured the hard way

The result carried significant weight. Jamaica finished Group D on 10 points, one ahead of Honduras, who had entered the match unbeaten Victory ensured automatic qualification; any other result would have left Jamaica dependent on comparisons among second-placed teams, with elimination a real possibility

Instead, the Young Reggae Girlz emerged as group winners, validating their consistency across the qualifying window and confirming their place among Concacaf’s most competitive youth sides

Eyes on the final round

Jamaica now advances to the final round of qualifiers, where they will be joined by group winners Haiti, Costa Rica, El Salvador,

Panama, and the Dominican Republic, as well as best second-place finishers Nicaragua and Bermuda Awaiting them are Concacaf’s topranked nations, the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Puerto Rico, setting the stage for a demanding but historic next phase

For the Young Reggae Girlz, the victory over Honduras was more than a single result It was a statement of growth, belief, and resilience, and a vital step toward the ultimate goal of qualifying for Jamaica’s first FIFA Women’s Under-17 World Cup

new national indoor long

jump record

Trinidad and Tobago’s Tyra Gittens-Spotsville delivered a commanding statement of form over the weekend, capturing gold and setting a new national indoor long jump record at the K-State DeLoss Dodds Invitational in Kansas.

Competing against a strong collegiate and professional field, the 27-year-old produced a series of increasingly confident jumps that culminated in a recordbreaking performance and a clear victory

Gittens-Spotsville opened her competition with a solid 6 55 meters, followed by a 6 50-meter effort that kept her well-positioned among the leaders Momentum continued to build in the third round, where she surpassed her own Trinidad and Tobago indoor record with a leap beyond her previous 6 68-meter mark

That record, however, proved shortlived

In the fourth round, Gittens-Spotsville delivered her defining moment of the meet, launching herself out to 6 83 meters, an emphatic improvement on the national indoor record she had established just moments earlier The jump sealed the gold medal and stood as the longest mark of the competition

Following her record effort, the USbased athlete registered a measured 6 58 meters in the fifth round before electing to pass on her final attempt, content that the job had been done

The measured progression across her series reflected both technical control and competitive confidence as she sharpened her form early in the indoor season

Among the world’s elite indoors

The 6 83-meter leap places GittensSpotsville fourth on the 2026 world indoor performance list. Only Italy’s Larissa Iapichino (6.93m), American Sophia Beckmon (6 85m), and Portugal’s Agate De Sousa (6 84m) have recorded longer jumps this season It also stands as the second-best jump of Gittens-Spotsville’s career, surpassed only by the 6 96-meter national outdoor record she set in 2021

With a national record secured and world-class ranking already established, Gittens-Spotsville’s performance in Kansas signals strong early-season intent The leap reinforces her status as one of Trinidad and Tobago’s premier field athletes and positions her firmly among the global contenders as the indoor campaign gathers momentum

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