Hollywood divided over “racist” street names
Forrest Street BY Celina DeCastroResidents of the City of Hollywood are divided over whether to change the names of streets that have been named in honor of Confederate soldiers.The city recently announced a revision to the rules to rename streets from having two-thirds majority vote down to 50 percent of votes to allow a street name change.The controversial streets are Lee Street, Forrest Street, and Hood Street.Named after Robert E Lee and John Bell Hood who were soldiers of the Confederate Army as well as Nathaniel Bedford Forrest, who not only led massacres against union soldiers and slaves but was also one of the key founders of the infamous Ku Klux Klan immediately following the end of the Civil War.Some of the city’s residents believe that the names are a sordid reminder of the dark past which led to the American civil war, while others have no problem with the naming of the roadways as they see it as part of the city’s history.Architectural Historian and resident since the 1930’s, George Chillag, feels the names should remain not to glorify the generals but to show how far The United States has come from those dark times in history.“I can understand why someone would feel uncomfortable with the names,” Chillag said. “But this gives us a reason to walk over to the person who feels differently and talk about how far we’ve come since.”According to City of Hollywood Commissioner Richard Blattner, the three street names were not the original names, originally these and other streets were named after other minority cities within the United States like “Chicago”, “Macon”, and many others.The name change came during the 1920’s, after a decision was made to rename the streets from the beach to 56 AVE after Presidents and other military personnel.These names have come under fire after a 2015 vandalism incident resulted in all three street names being sprayed over with black paint.Since the incident, several residents including Benjamin Israel, an African-American and Orthodox Jew, has been demanding an immediate change to these street names because they are offensive.“Nobody wants to live on a street named after Charles Manson,” Israel told the Sun-Sentinel. “Yet a bunch of us are living on a street named after Nathan Bedford Forrest.’’According to Blattner, the focus of the name change is heavily concentrated on Forrest Street due to the dark deeds of Nathaniel B. Forrest.In 2005, the Commission board set up a set of rules to be put in place to change a street name in Hollywood. This includes a $2,000 applications fee, a naming committee to pick an alternative name, approval by commission in a 5/7 vote, and the new revised requirement of receiving a 50% vote of ballots entries.Mail-In ballots to homeowners within those areas have yet to be mailed out, the city staffers are in the process of creating new names to be offered on the ballot and are also considering the option of duel names to those streets.Quite like Barack Obama Blvd/SW 40th AVE in West Park, Florida that was approved by votes in July 2009.A set date of mailing out the ballots and result release have yet to be chosen
The Pembroke Pines City Center will the venue hosting the Caribbean American Exhibition and Festival on June 24.There will be several multi-cultural exhibits themed under health and wellness, arts, craft, island and Latin foods, Ska, Reggae, Zumba, Latin and R&B music fusion.Great family entertainment will also be on offer including hoola hoop, limbo, kite making and a children’s fun zone.
At least two people were killed and 12 people arrested in Haiti as protests action continued over the new budget presented by the Jovenel Moise administration. Four-days of demonstrations ahead Meanwhile, Jean-Charles has announced four days of demonstrations starting on Monday to protest the fiscal measures contained in the budget.He described the meeting between President Moise and leaders of some political parties here as “a huge joke” adding that “Moïse is deaf to the demands of the population.”The organizers said that transport workers have already signaled their intention to support the demonstrations. Dismisses Moise Jean-Charles involvementThe National Police of Haiti (PNH) also confirmed that at least four vehicles were burnt during the protest. PNH dismissed reports that an arrest warrant had been issued for former Senator Moïse Jean-Charles, in connection with the anti-governmental demonstrations.“The PNH has no arrest order against former Senator of the North,” said the PNH spokesman Frantz Lerebours, saying that the police were engaged in a routine check after a warning issued against the driver of a vehicle, which turned out to be that of the former legislator.
National strikePresident of the Association of Haitian Owners and Drivers (APCH), Mehu Changeux , said that a national strike has also been planned for Monday to force President Moïse to recall the budget that was ratified by both Houses of Parliament last week.
Found dead in his cellPolice said that around 7.30 a.m. Jason Wharton, 38, was found stabbed to death in his cell. His body was removed to the Port of Spain Mortuary. The Eastern Caribbean state of Trinidad and Tobago is under the gun.Murders continue to climb in the country that has been beset, much like other Caribbean states, with an out of control murder rate. As of Saturday, September 15, that country’s police reported that 344 persons had been victims of murder.Most fell victim to the gun. However, on Sunday a prison inmate was stabbed to death by three other prisoners inside the Golden Grove Remand Center in Arouca. Shot in the chestHours before Shackah Prince, 37, was sitting on the roadway near the bar when a gunman fired one shot, hitting him in the chest. The shooting happened at around 1a.m.Prince, of Bertrand Street, collapsed on the roadway.He was pronounced dead at the San Fernando General Hospital. The incident occurred near his home.Police are also considering arming some of its citizens with pepper spray and tasers in a bid to give law-abiding citizens a greater chance of fending off attacks from criminal elements.
Jazz at Lincoln Center has announced the three top-placing high school jazz bands in the nation that took the highest honors recently at the prestigious 23rd Annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival at Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, New York.The first-place winner is Dillard Center for the Arts from Ft. Lauderdale, FL. The second-place winner is Newark Academy from Livingston, NJ and third-place winner is Tucson Jazz Institute from Tucson, AZ. Honorable Mention is Beloit Memorial High School from Beloit, WI and Roosevelt High School from Seattle, WA . Beginning on May 10, the top 15 high school jazz bands in the country participated in the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival and were immersed in three days of mentoring, jam sessions, and workshops. The competition culminated in the May 12 concert wherein each top-placing band performed with their choice Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra member as a soloist. The final concert also featured the world-renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis – whose members served as mentors for the finalist bands throughout the week – performing repertoire made famous by Duke Ellington. Each finalist band was chosen by a panel of judges comprised of distinguished jazz musicians and historians: Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Managing and Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis; composer, arranger, acclaimed pianist Bill Charlap; big band leader, drummer and Grammy-nominated recording artist Jeff Hamilton; acclaimed musician and former Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra member Todd Williams and renowned flautist, saxophonist, composer, educator, and EE Alum Erica von Kleist. At the ceremony, Wynton Marsalis presented awards to each of the 15 finalist high school jazz bands. Dillard Center for the Artsaccepted the first place trophy and an award of $5,000. Newark Academy accepted the second place trophy and an award of $2,500.Tucson Jazz Institute accepted the third place trophy with an award of $1,000. Roosevelt High School and Beloit Memorial High School received honorable mention with an award of $750. The remaining ten bands were each awarded cash awards of $500. All monetary awards are to be used for improving the jazz education programs of each respective high school.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The Trinidad and Tobago government on Monday said it expects to lose revenue in excess of nine billion dollars (One TT dollar=US$0.16 cents) as a result of the dramatic decline in oil and gas prices on the global market. Imbert said that the government has processed and authorized the first batch of 1,000 salary relief grants and that if all goes according to plan, these grants will be wired to recipients on Tuesday and arrive in their bank accounts by Wednesday. “To date, over TT$65 million has already been spent or committed by that Ministry on Covid-19 relief measures. These measures include over TT$25 million worth of food cards distributed to Members of Parliament to assist parents for a 3-month period, whose children would normally receive meals through the school feeding programme, and for other needy persons in their constituencies.” “Accordingly, our fiscal deficit for fiscal 2020, which was originally estimated at TT$5.3 billion, is now expected to expand to TT$15.5 billion, TT$10.2 billion higher than was envisaged in our financial year 2020 budget.” “Indeed, the April 2020 World Economic Outlook envisages a partial recovery in 2021. However, there is tremendous uncertainty around the outlook, given that it can get worse,” he said, adding “we cannot allow this pandemic to destroy our economy and, therefore, while a reallocation of priority areas for spending is inevitable, it is our intention to maintain our original expenditure target of TT$53 billion for fiscal 2020”. “Further, we have taken steps to allow for emergency drawdowns from the Heritage and Stabilization Fund (HSF), not exceeding US$1.5 billion in any given year, for budgetary support in exceptional circumstances, such as the current pandemic,” he said thanking legislators for “unanimously supporting the amendments to the legislation governing the HSF to allow for such drawdowns. But he said notwithstanding the forecasts of …oil in the US$30 range and gas in the US$2.10 range for the rest of 2020, therefore, our latest revenue projections, are based on conservative prices of US$25 per barrel for oil for the rest of the year and US$1.80 per MMBTU for natural gas. Imbert said that calculating this revised deficit, the Keith Rowley government has taken note of the fact that the collapse of the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil to one US cent per barrel last week is having an adverse effect on other oil prices. In addition, it is also pursuing a further US$500 million for budgetary support from other external sources. “For example, Brent oil, which is closer in price to our local crude than WTI, has dropped to US$20. Such low prices were previously undreamt of. “ He said more than 75,000 households, comprising over 200,000 nationals, have benefitted from additional social support measures implemented by the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services so far. He said that the government has a targeted and sizable financial support programme for an initial period of three months at a cost of approximately TT$4.5 billion is providing a safety net for the most vulnerable households and businesses as a result of the pandemic.. “We have also raised TT$500 million locally to pay for the increased demands for goods and services for the Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) and to settle aged trade payables in the health sector. In terms of cash flow for the Ministry of Health and the RHAs, in the face of this pandemic, therefore, we are on a strong footing,” Imbert said. In his lengthy statement to the Parliament, the Finance Minister said substantial budgetary resources are being directed to the health sector, and this is aided by external financial support. To deal with the coronavirus. Finance Minister Colm Imbert in a statement to Parliament said in 2020, the government’s objective is to keep the economy moving, stimulate economic activity, provide financial assistance to individuals and businesses, and keep as many people employed as is possible including all workers in the public sector as the twin-island republic also deals with the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
“As a country, we have long recognized the importance of building up a foreign exchange buffer through our HSF which now has a Net Asset value of US$6.1 billion, US$500 million more than when we assumed office in September 2015, despite withdrawals totalling US$600 million since then and the collapse of the US stock market last month,” Imbert said. He said these include US$20 million from the World Bank, US$130 million from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and US$150 million from the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF). Imbert said for that reason, the government has been in discussions with certain multilateral institutions and development banks with a view to ensuring that in addition to domestic financial resources, appropriate external financing is available to meet the requirements of the expanded fiscal deficit in 2020 and 2021. Imbert told legislators that there is no question that fiscal 2020 will be “exceptionally difficult even if the pandemic fades in the second half of the year thus allowing for a gradual lifting of the containment measures and a re-opening of the economy. He said this will cost TT$30 million and that a further TT$10 million per month for food support will be given to the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government for distribution within the 14 Municipal Regions in Trinidad. He told legislators that the government’s “comprehensive social, financial and economic support package of measures” since the virus was first detected here, “has expanded our expenditure envelope, in the context of a serious erosion of our tax base caused by the collapse of oil prices. “This results in a projected loss of revenue in fiscal 2020 of TT$9.2 billion, to which must be added another net one billion TT dollars in extraordinary expenditure. Within that TT$9.2 billion revenue loss, we estimate a loss of TT$3.8 billion in taxes on Incomes and Profits, and losses of TT$750 million in Business Levy and Green Fund Levy, TT$600 million in taxes on Goods and Services and International Trade, TT$2.5 billion in Royalties and Production Sharing and TT$1.2 billion in Profits from State Enterprises, among other areas. “ He said in addition, addition, the government is currently processing applications for Income Support Grants of up to TT$1,500 per month per household, for persons who are outside of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and the Inland Revenue systems who have lost their jobs or incomes as a result of Covid-19 measures, i.e. persons in the informal economy. Rent Relief Grants of up to TT$2,400 per month are also available. “It is expected that these social support measures will cost up to TT$200 million for the period up to July 2020,” Imbert said, adding that grants totaling TT$10 million per month for the next three months, will be given to religious bodies in proportion to the size of their congregations for them to distribute food to the poor and needy in accordance with their existing procedures and programmes. Imbert said that existing food card recipients have also had their food cards topped up with additional funds at a cost of over TT$17 million and over 30,000 persons in receipt of public assistance or disability assistance have been given additional assistance at a cost of over TT$22 million. Food hampers have also been sent to all Regional Corporations.” “We have created a health system parallel to the traditional health facilities to specifically respond to the pandemic,” he said, noting that in terms of international financial assistance to address the unprecedented financial demands of Covid-19, the government is sourcing US$300 million from various multilateral agencies. “Thereafter, we expect to be able to increase our capacity to be able to process and deliver up to 10,000 new grants per week, as we speed up and streamline the process. These grants are eventually expected to reach as many as 100,000 persons at a cost of TT$400 million,” the Finance Minister said. CMC
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced the extension of a No Sail Order for cruise ships through September 30, 2020. This order continues to suspend passenger operations on cruise ships with the capacity to carry at least 250 passengers in waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction. This Order will remain in effect until the earliest of: 1. The expiration of the Secretary of Health and Human Services’ declaration that COVID-19 constitutes a public health emergency, Cumulative CDC data from March 1 through July 10, 2020, shows 2,973 COVID-19 or COVID-like illness cases on cruise ships, in addition to 34 deaths. These cases were part of 99 outbreaks on 123 different cruise ships. During this time frame, 80 percent of ships were affected by COVID-19. As of July 3, nine of the 49 ships under the No Sail Order have ongoing or resolving outbreaks. According to U.S. Coast Guard data, as of July 10, 2020, there are 67 ships with 14,702 crew onboard. 2. The CDC Director rescinds or modifies the order based on specific public health or other considerations, or
On cruise ships, passengers and crew share spaces that are more crowded than most urban settings. Even when only essential crew are on board, ongoing spread of COVID-19 still occurs. If unrestricted cruise ship passenger operations were permitted to resume, passengers and crew on board would be at increased risk of COVID-19 infection and those that work or travel on cruise ships would place substantial unnecessary risk on healthcare workers, port personnel and federal partners (i.e., Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Coast Guard), and the communities they return to. 3. September 30, 2020. CDC supports the June 19th decision by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) to extend voluntarily the suspension of operations for passenger cruise ship travel until September 15, 2020. In line with CLIA’s announcement of voluntary suspension of operation by its member companies, CDC has extended its No Sail Order to ensure that passenger operations on cruise ships do not resume prematurely. 
MANCHESTER, England -Half-centuries from opener Kraigg Brathwaite and Shamarh Brooks formed the foundation of a solid West Indies reply, on the penultimate day of the second Test against England on Sunday. At tea, West Indies were 227 for four in their first innings – still 242 runs behind – with Brooks unbeaten on a polished 60 and accompanied by Roston Chase on eight. Brathwaite had earlier top-scored with 75 in a critical 76-run, fourth wicket stand with Brooks which saw West Indies get the better of the second session, after they resumed from lunch on 118 for two. Shai Hope, unbeaten on 25 at the interval, perished in the third over following the resumption when he nicked one from left-arm seamer Sam Curran and was caught at the wicket. West Indies resumed from their overnight 32 for one after rain forced the abandonment of the entire third day and flourished in the first session as Brathwaite and nightwatchman Alzarri Joseph extended their second wicket stand to 54 before being separated. The right-hander put on 53 for the third wicket with Brathwaite, who was the second victim of the session, chipping a return catch to seamer Ben Stokes after facing 165 balls and hitting eight fours. Brooks has so far struck 10 fours off 115 deliveries. On 14 at the start, Joseph made 32 with three fours before being taken at short leg by Ollie Pope off Curran who has taken two for 35. CMC
Essential workers were treated to lunches consisting of Jamaican staples including jerk chicken, plantains, rice and peas, fish with festival and a selection of Grace Tropical Rhythms and coconut water. The program was launched out of GK Foods’ acknowledgment of the vital role of grocery store workers in sustainable food supply. Face masks have also been distributed during the eight-week initiative. “Grace does a very good job. We are very proud of our relationship. This is the first time we’ve ever seen anything like this. It brings out the Jamaican in you,” said Elvin ‘Eddie’ Fernandez, Owner of Bravo Supermarket in West Park, Florida, whose team benefitted from the Food Tour. GraceKennedy (GK) Foods USA is this week, winding down its eight-week “With Love from Grace” Appreciation Food Truck Tour, which has seen the company delivering hot lunches to some 2,000 essential workers over some 30 stops in New York and Florida since June. The Grace team also made stops at Walmart, Broward Meat and Fish, Presidente, Bravo, Shoprite, Western Beef and Pathmark Supermarkets across New York and Florida. This was our way of showing our appreciation for the selflessness and courage displayed by grocery store workers in keeping stores open during the COVID-19 pandemic. They have helped millions of people get through the current global crisis without interruption, risking their lives, while maintaining the highest level of quality and service,” said Derrick Reckord, President and CEO of GraceKennedy Foods USA, LLC. “Grace is a family brand, known and loved both at home in Jamaica and internationally. While we have contributed to several relief efforts in cash and kind, we also wanted to ensure that retail partners in our key markets, who work to keep our communities fed, are recognized for the essential service that they provide.
COUNTY JUDGE During his first term, Perez showed the type of drive and commitment that deserves voting for him from among his challengers to give him the opportunity to continue his “tireless work for the residents of the district and the residents of Florida.” Joe Scott (DEM) Ian Richards Luisa Santos Holness, the incumbent Mayor of Broward County, has served the district with utmost diligence over successive terms. He relentlessly fights for benefits for residents and has displayed in recent months as the county struggles with the challenges brought by COVID-19 that he possesses the relevant leadership qualities. CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS Scott, a West Point graduate, who refers to himself as a “tech geek,” has the necessary talents to ensure the county’s electoral system is capably and fairly managed. He will create a system where appropriate technological innovations will ensure votes are not compromised, and in which voters can turn out to vote in large numbers without hindrance, confident their votes will be counted on time. DISTRICT 7 District 21 Supervisor of Elections Gordon Weekes (DEM) Vic DeGrammont (REP) Pearson is an assistant state attorney advocating for criminal justice reform, committed to ending racial disparities within the criminal justice system and safely reducing Miami-Dade’s jail population. She wants to ensure the State Attorney’s Office put new resources and more attention towards bringing justice to domestic violence and sexual assault victims, and stem the criminalization of poverty by ending cash bond requirements for most non-violent offenders. COUNTY COMMISSION U.S. CONGRESS: Marie Flore Lindor-Latortue Christian Acosta (REP) GROUP 4 – Rob Long DeGrammont describes himself as a problem solver and “looking forward to representing his community and finally putting South Florida First.” He is confident his representation will make a difference in the key areas of public education, healthcare, immigration reforms, pro-gun laws, and improvement in the quality of lives for veterans, Alison Gilman Hill, an attorney, is a consistent “servant leader” in the Caribbean community. The Jamaican American, business and professional leader, wants “…to elevate what I have been doing for years on a different platform.” He’s seeking election to “help magnify the voices of Miami-Dade residents and needs to the hallways of county government.” His priorities include: providing a solution to the affordable housing crisis, fighting for public transit expansion to ease traffic congestion, preservation of the natural environment, and improving fair and just community policing. Caribbean American Weekes is a natural successor to Howard Finkelstein as Broward County’s public defender. The office, which serves mostly blacks and other minorities, could benefit from a candidate who understands them better, Finklestein who is retiring, was quoted as saying. Weekes successfully served as chief assistant public defender in charge of the Juvenile Division. Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation Zenteno has over fifteen years’ experience as a State General Appraiser. Her goal is to bring the county’s property appraiser’s office into the twenty-first century with stronger support for its diverse workforce. His platform is to invest in people—children, teens, and seniors. He wants to ensure children start and get the greatest education, teens remain in school and get a college degree, improve the lives of senior citizens, and honor veterans. Circuit Judge 16 District 22 This Caribbean American is an ambitious Republican seeking to represent the district with traditional conservative values including strengthening the police; protecting the U.S. borders against illegal immigration, and enhancing the quality of life for American families. Based on experience, Clarke seems the better Republican candidate. Ted Deutch (DEM) H. Wayne Clark (REP) Rene Garcia School Board Member DISTRICT 9 County Court Judge Gr 22 Maria Elvira Salazar (REP) Saima Farooqui (DEM) At-Large Seat 5 District 20 Gina Hawkins The former Florida Representative is seeking a Senate seat to give Broward and Palm Beach residents a voice in government. She wants to ensure Florida’s government prioritizes emergency preparedness to adequately respond to public health crises until a COVID-19 vaccine is developed. Her other platforms include gun control, improving public school education, protecting seniors, improved wages, affordable healthcare, racial justice and equality, and addressing climate change. District 33 Ahead of the August 18 Primary Elections, voters are reminded they can only vote according to their party registration in the Primary Elections. Thurston is seeking reelection and should be. In his initial tenure, he took his role in representing the people very seriously, and forcibly. He’s very concerned about the damage COVID-19 is wreaking on the state’s health security, economy and schools, and wants to be engaged in stemming the virus, saving jobs and improving the state’s unemployment system and compensation. PALM BEACH COUNTY FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 7 MIAMI-DADE COUNTY There are very serious issues that affect every member of this community. It is by exercising every voter’s special privilege to elect the most suitable candidate to represent him/her in the respective legislative chamber that these issues can be dealt with to the advantage of each voter, and the community. Gilbert, Mayor of Miami Gardens is in a tight race with Sybrina Fulton, mother of the late slain Miami teenager Trayvon Martin. While Fulton has gained notoriety for her mission against gun violence, and for criminal justice, Gilbert has more experience gained during his tenure as mayor. DuBose is seeking his third term in the Florida House. He’s anxious to be reelected to continue fighting for the district and providing residents with criminal justice reform, enhanced economic development, increased affordable housing, improved and expanded healthcare, and laws that prevent residents from gun violence. Silmo Moura (REP) Daniel Perez (REP) Incumbent Kelly Skidmore (DEM) District 26 STATE ATTORNEY – 17th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT GROUP 55Olanike “Nike” Adebayo Eileen Vargas (REP) Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (DEM) Incumbent Omari Hardy (DEM) Marie Woodson (DEM) County Public Defender Bobby DuBose (DEM) Incumbent DISTRICT 11 Palomino is seeking to be elected to the state legislature to put “we the people” back in control of state government. She wants to be involved in not just providing solutions, but also providing conservative solutions that represent the free market, and limited government values. Clerk of the Court Circuit Court Judge Gr. 18 District 96 The local attorney’s objective is to work tirelessly to protect district residents from tax increases and combat the special interests that threaten their quality of life. (County Commission, School Board, Circuit Court and County Court Judges, State Attorney, Public Defender, Sheriff, Clerk of The Courts, Supervisor of Elections) Lois Frankel (DEM) Incumbent County Court Judge FLORIDA SENATE Residential Seat 3 District 5 – Frank Anthony Barbieri, Jr. The former Mayor of West Palm Beach is the first woman to represent Florida’s 21st district. In Congress, where she has made her mark as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, where she serves on the Subcommittees of: Energy and Water Development; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies; and State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs. Residential Seat 1 Bado is seeking to represent District 114 to, among other priorities, fight the potentially devastating effects of climate change, especially the threat from rising waters on South Florida’s coast; support common-sense gun reform to keep schools and neighborhoods safe, as well as create more economic opportunity for residents. Jeff Holness District 94 DISTRICT 9 Vargas is advocating for pro-life, immigration reform; backs charter school and the vocational school movement, and endorses smaller government, and less regulation and taxes. Caribbean American Phoebee Francois is the best candidate in this race. She is super smart, capable, fair and compassionate. Maureen Porras (DEM) Maureen’s experience as an attorney defending the rights of vulnerable populations led her to run for office. She has served and protected families for over 11 years and is ready to serve District 105. Her priorities include: investing in public education, criminal justice reform, preserving Florida’s natural resources, supporting women’s reproductive rights, and protecting immigrants within the community. Omphroy is facing a strong challenge from newcomer Jasmen Rogers-Shaw for the seat won in 2018. She came under criticism for voting with Republicans on an abortion bill. However, she admitted to being agonized about her decision. She has also shown she has learned a lot in her first tenure, and displays a commitment to the best interests of the district, focusing on jobs, the economy, and other issues crucial to the district. This bold journalist is making her second bid for the U.S. Congress. The issues and policies she represents include anti-socialism, a stronger economy and job creation, term limits for politicians in Washington, and affordable healthcare. District 107 National Weekly, over the past several weeks, has closely analyzed responses to our questionnaires and the candidates’ position on various issues as they relate to the interests of Caribbean- and African-American voters. Below is South Florida’s primary election guide, complied by the CNW editorial team. School Board – District 3 District 112 Dotie Joseph (DEM) Incumbent This attorney, community activist, and civil rights advocate seems poised to be reelected to continue her quest “for equal access to affordable housing, safe communities, quality education, affordable health care, job creation, and improving quality of life for all who live, work, and play in the district.” GROUP 3 – Clarence “Chief” Williams lll (DEM) Frank Ledee. GROUP 24Christine Bandín GROUP 9Joseph J. Mansfield (State Attorney, Mayor, County Commission, Property Appraiser, School Board, Circuit Court and County Court Judges, State Attorney, Public Defender, Clerk Of The Courts) Gepsie M. Metellus District 39 District 7 District 3 The former Miami-Dade Commissioner is seeking to emerge as the county’s first female mayor from a strong field of four candidates. She offers a much-needed fresh perspective on the leadership of the myriad problems of this very diverse community. Kristin Padowitz Padowitz believes Broward citizens would “benefit by having a more efficiently run court system.” She is also sensitive to the role a person’s socioeconomic circumstances can have on whether they receive saying “A lack of availability to the courts because of one’s socioeconomic circumstances is an injustice I have seen.” County Sheriff Broward County Voters are also advised to contact the offices of the respective Supervisor of Elections in their county of residence for early voting places and early voting times. Lucia Baez-Geller GROUP 12 – Debra Moses Stephens Tim Ryan (DEM) Incumbent Eileen Higgins (Incumbent) DISTRICT 3 District 105 District 1 – Barbara McQuinn District 88 Christopher Benjamin (DEM) Circuit Court Judge Gr 50 Rosa Maria “Rosy” Palomino (REP) On behalf of the several candidates that have placed themselves for elections, and the time, energy and funds they have spent seeking to represent the voters of South Florida, we appeal to every eligible voter to vote. Daniella Levine Cava Hardy seems set to unseat incumbent Al Jacquet who has drawn criticism for unexplained absences from the Legislature during his second term. Hardy is a Lake Worth Commissioner with a no-nonsense approach to representation. He supports criminal justice reform, affordable housing, racial justice and equality, job and economic growth. Carla Spalding (REP) District 103 District 9 The incumbent congresswoman has proven herself to be a solid representative for her district and for Floridians in Congress. Her presence benefits Floridians in healthcare, job creation, minimum wage increase, racial and social justice, and fair immigration policies. PROPERTY APPRAISER County Court Judge Gr 27 Skidmore who previously served in the Florida House from 2006 to 2008 has been trying to return since. She had failed bids to the Senate in 2010 and 2016. She should be successful in this run, as she definitely seems to have more experience than her competitor, both as a former legislator and a legislative aid in both the House and Senate for 10 years prior. The former Mayor of Pinecrest has the necessary experience to represent the district. She is a nationally acclaimed leader on climate change policies—a skill much-needed on the county commission as sea level rises and threatens the coastline. Phoebee Francois (Clerk And Comptroller, Sheriff, County Commission, School Board, Circuit Court And County Court Judges, Soil And Water Conservation, Port Of Palm Beach, Tax Collector) Hastings has been a long-term member of Congress who has been consistent in his efforts to improve the quality of life in this district. He has the required experience to continue in the job. Sean Conway Dale Holness (DEM) Incumbent Circuit Court Judge Gr 30 COMMUNITY COUNCIL 11, SUBAREA 114 Christian Cevallos District 95 Felicia Simone Robinson (DEM) Jones is also seeking to transit from the Florida House to the Senate believing there’s much work to be done. His priorities include improving minimum wage to $15 per hour, increasing affordable housing options, reforming the criminal justice system, protecting the state’s coasts against climate change, improving investment in infrastructure, public transportation and providing more support to Florida’s small business sector. Sean stood up to an overly harsh judge and paid the price for it. He harbors ambition, if elected to Congress, to restore the power and authority of legislatures. His priorities include lowering the cost of prescription drugs, growing Florida’s and the national economy, and achieving sustained job growth; and closing what he calls the education achievement gap. Fernandez is seeking to continue serving Floridians in the Senate after serving in the House, cites his priorities as a senator to include: growing the economy and keeping taxes low, combatting the rigors of climate change, common-sense gun control, funding new infrastructure projects, and making it possible for more Floridians to afford homes. District 29 Circuit Court Judge Gr 27 Richards previously served as a good and fair judge and is deserving of another shot on the bench. Although he might always be remembered as the judge who jumped over the bench to protect a witness who was being attacked, he has proven himself to be capable of much more. For example, he streamlined the misdemeanor domestic violence unit; and of the more than 1000 cases and hundreds of jury trials over which he presided, 99 percent of his decisions were upheld. Nelson is a rare Republican that supports gun control, wanting to see the state introduce background checks and a three-day wait period on gun sales. Voting extends over a period of several days which enhances the convenience of voting. District 2 – Alexandria Marie Ayala Javier Fernandez (DEM) District 35 This is a close race between Paul Backman and Mark Alan Speiser, challenging incumbent Brenda Forman. Essentially, anyone can win this race, but we think Speiser is the most qualified. He will bring to the position a wealth of knowledge and an innovative spirit that will help to move the clerk’s office in a more positive direction. Having been involved in creating the nation’s first mental health court, Florida’s second drug court and Broward County’s first veteran’s court, Speiser shows he can put his out-of-the-box ideas to good use—a characteristic that bodes well for the clerk’s office and the people it serves. Heather Brinkworth A former councilwoman of the City of Miami Gardens, Robinson’s priorities are to improve affordable public transportation in the district, provide affordable, far-reaching healthcare; provide quality and innovative education, increase affordable housing, increase job opportunities, improve public safety, and improve the district’s environment with more green spaces and research parks. MAYOR Joseph Abruzzo (DEM) Perry Thurston (DEM) Incumbent STATE ATTORNEY, 11TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT Melba V. Pearson (DEM) Alcee Hastings (DEM) Incumbent Karen Marcus (REP) District 117 SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER GROUP 65Thomas Rebull COMMUNITY COUNCIL 15, SUBAREA 154 Marvin D. Wilson Sr DISTRICT 5 District 108 District 23 Robert Asencio Farooqui is self-described as having a passion for civil rights. The vice president of the Coconut Creek Democratic Club and secretary of the American Muslim Democratic Caucus of Florida is committed to making changes for the betterment of the community, emphasizing the importance of affordable education, accessible healthcare, economic growth, and implementing policies for public safety. DISTRICT 1 Christi Fraga Circuit Judge 15th Judicial Circuit District 7 Nelson Rodriquez (REP) Francis Ragoo Caribbean American Morey Wright Jr. brings fresh energy and new ideas to South Florida politics. His priorities include increasing funding for education, expanding access to affordable healthcare, advocating aggressively for seniors, veterans and small businesses; working to pass sensible gun reform, and protecting the environment from climate change. District 101 As County Commissioner, Higgins has been an advocate for residents and small businesses. She has fought for transportation solutions, championed affordable housing, helped Flagler St. businesses suffering through endless construction recover, and defended the environment and green space. District 24 Cindy Lerner Mark Alan Speiser Elvis Caines Asencio, a former state representative, promises to place emphasis on solving the grave transportation problem that hinders this district and improving the economic opportunities for the numerous small businesses located within the district. Shannan Ighodaro Fredericka Wilson (DEM) Incumbent District 104 Tim Ryan has worked hard to make sure Broward County is strong and resilient. His efforts include: creating high wage jobs and helping workers get skills they need, finding innovative solutions to reduce traffic, and protecting water quality and the environment. Harold Pryor is the right person for this position, especially at a time when people of color are demanding a more equitable justice system. Pryor has firsthand experience of the justice system’s shortcomings for Black people, and believes becoming a part of that system is the best way to reform it. As an Assistant State Attorney of the 17th Judicial Circuit of Florida, Pyror prosecuted serious criminal offenses, developing the reputation for being tough yet fair—a trait necessary for the role. Marlon Hill The Haitian American community activist is in a very crowded race of five candidates, vying for this seat. Her tireless community work has prepared her to serve the wider community, and address her priorities to help struggling families, expand opportunities for small businesses, increase affordable housing, and address traffic congestion in the county. Carlos Giminez (REP) Ric Bradshaw (DEM) GROUP 16 – Henry Quinn Johnson GROUP 75Dava J. Tunis DISTRICT 3 Elected to Congress in 2010 Deutch has proved himself a committed Democratic, devoted to issues like gun control, affordable healthcare, improvement in Social Security and Medicare, raising the minimum wage and helping working families. Shevrin “Shev” Jones (DEM) GROUP 57Roderick “Rod” Vereen George Odom Jr. George is a former Marine, and a straight shooter. He promises to “bring honor and dedication to the bench.” District 1 County Commission Tina Polsky (DEM) The former Florida senator has gained significant experience over the years and is suitable to be seated on the county commission where his priorities include providing more affordable housing, freezing property taxes for seniors, addressing mental health and substance abuse issues, and protecting the county’s environment. Anika Omphroy (DEM) Incumbent COMMUNITY COUNCIL 14, SUBAREA 144 Kelli Ann Thomas COMMUNITY COUNCIL 14, SUBAREA 146 Steven M. Green Jessica Laquerre Hylton (DEM) School Board – District 9 Clerk and Comptroller GROUP 1 – Wayne M. Richards (DEM) The Jamaican American, who founded the Female Development World Organization Inc. (FDWO) and was a pioneer in the Reggae Girlz development in their historic run to the FIFA World Cup, is focused on education, health, social development and ending the abuse of girls and young women, especially in socio-economically challenged communities. Deer is a Human Trafficking Expert who has worked with Florida legislators to propose language for the Human Trafficking Education in Schools Bill. GROUP 30 – Adam Myron Voters registered without party affiliation, or NPA, will not be allowed to vote. Registered Democrats can only vote for Democratic candidates on the ballot with Democratic candidates, and the same applies for registered Republican voters, they can only vote for Republican candidates. GROUP 67Marcia Giordano Hansen James (Jim) Pruden (REP) District 81 GROUP 3 – Nicholas T. O’Neal Hylton is seeking to be the youngest and first black woman to represent this South Miami-Dade district. She is keen on stomping out crime in the district, enhancing the potential for the success of small businesses, creating new opportunities for the youth, and driving homeownership. Dave Kerner (DEM) District 84 Ledee is a good man. Attorneys who went up against him when he was a Miami-Dade prosecutor, hailed his reputation for being tough and fair. Tax Collector District 114 Pruden says his campaign platform is consistent with, and advances, the principles of economic and political freedom established by the founders of the U.S., domestic and international security, healthcare reform, and an originalist adherence to the U.S. Constitution. District 102 CIRCUIT JUDGE, 11TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DISTRICT 13 Mark Bernard (DEM) She remains a warrior for the District since her first election in 2010 representing District 17. She has adequately represented the cause of the Black Community, including Haitians, and is quite fearless in Washington in fighting for the rights of her district and all Americans. Mayor Lavern Deer The incumbent Miami-Dade mayor is seeking to take a seat in Congress where he believes he will be able to influence the implementation of policies that affect South Florida, including protecting the environment, working for improved healthcare, and improved care for seniors. District 116 Oliver Gilbert GROUP 2 – Ann Marie Sorrell However, on Election Day, November 3, Democrats, Republicans and NPA’s can vote for a candidate of whichever party. DISTRICT 5 Port of Palm Beach Morey Wright Jr. (DEM) District 27 Bibiana Potestad (REP) Benjamin is eager to be elected to protect residents of his district and Floridians from the health and economic negatives caused by COVID-19. His immediate priorities are fixing and enhancing Florida’s problematic and inadequate unemployment system, training the unemployed for newly created jobs, assisting failing small businesses, and improving the quality of policing within the state. County Court Judge Gr 31 Marisol Zenteno With thousands of Floridians struggling to obtain adequate unemployment benefits, Woodson wants to be involved in creating an unemployment system that actually works. Her plan is to obtain federal funding to assist Floridians as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic; improve employment opportunities, especially for the underprivileged; improve healthcare, including coverage for mental health and substance abuse; improve security at public schools, and implement universal background checks to purchase firearms. COMMUNITY COUNCIL 8, SUBAREA 82 Alethia Emily Hinds Jean-Pierre Bado (DEM) Supervisor of Elections Paulette V. Armstead GROUP 2 – Katherine Waldon (DEM) Anne M. Gannon (DEM)