Two Caribbean Athletes Among Nominees for 2024 World Athletics Track Athlete of the Year

News Americas, New York, NY, October 21, 2024: Caribbean superstars Julien Alfred of St. Lucia and Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic are among the six athletes nominated for the prestigious 2024 World Athletics Women’s Track Athlete of the Year award.

St Lucia’s Julien Alfred celebrates after winning the women’s 100m final of the athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 3, 2024. (Photo by Martin BERNETTI / AFP) (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Alfred and Paulino will face stiff competition from Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet, the Olympic 5,000-m and 10,000-m champion, and Faith Kipyegon, who secured Olympic gold in the 1,500-m. Additionally, the USA’s Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the Olympic 400-m hurdles gold medalist, and Gabby Thomas, the 200m Olympic champion, are also in the running.

Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic wins the 400m during Athlos NYC at Icahn Stadium on September 26, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Athlos/Getty Images for Athlos)

Julien Alfred, at just 23, has had a stellar year, winning gold in the 100-m and silver in the 200m at the Paris Olympics, while also taking home the World Indoor 60m title. She capped off her incredible season by being crowned the 100-m champion at the Wanda Diamond League.

Marileidy Paulino, 27, was unbeaten in 2024 in the women’s 400-m, securing gold at the Paris Olympics and claiming victory at the Wanda Diamond League.

On the men’s side, Americans Rai Benjamin, Grant Holloway, and Noah Lyles, along with Letsile Tebogo of Botswana, Emmanuel Wanyonyi of Kenya, and Jakob Ingebrigtsen of Norway, have been nominated for the Men’s Track Athlete of the Year.

The winners will be decided through public voting on World Athletics’ social media platforms, with voting set to close on October 27, 2024.

D328eco™ ready to meet demand for regional connectivity across Latin America and the Caribbean

News Americas, Nassau, Mon. Oct. 21, 2024: German aircraft manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, will attend this year’s ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum in Nassau, Bahamas to share further insights about the new D328eco. This commercial aviation conference is a leading forum for industry leaders and government representatives to discuss current challenges and promising solutions for aviation in Latin America.

Regional aviation in South America and the Caribbean is expanding considerably, fuelled by robust GDP growth, a significant increase in tourism activity and the emerging middle class. This has created a crucial need for a reliable and efficient regional air transportation solution that can connect remote areas across diverse geographical landscapes.

The D328eco is uniquely positioned to meet all these requirements with its 40-seat capacity, outstanding operational efficiency and flexible operational configuration. This next-generation turboprop is the right aircraft to fulfil the demands of the regional aviation market, allowing operators to establish new routes and support the continued expansion of airports and infrastructure.

The high-performing solution for regional aviation in Latin America

Regional aviation plays a pivotal role in boosting tourism, stimulating local economies and strengthening regional development. Tourism is one of the key markets in the region, with more than 117 million international tourists visiting Latin America in 2023 (a 12% increase from 2022). To maximise on this potential, regional airlines need to offer efficient and accessible transportation services, expand their network connectivity and prioritise passenger experience.

The turboprop from Deutsche Aircraft sets the bar for performance and efficiency in its class, making it a perfect match for this developing regional market. With a nominal range of 600NM, a high service ceiling of 30,000ft, a top speed of 324KTS and a climb rate of 2,355ft, the D328eco can handle the wide-ranging landscapes across this continent. Combined with its unpaved runway and 800m STOL capabilities, it is ideal for serving smaller, remote airports across the region.

The D328eco has elevated the concept of comfort with its contemporary cabin layout, which includes a spacious stand-up aisle. Passengers will enjoy plenty of room, including generous overhead bins for their belongings. Its modular galley can be tailored for both hot and cold service, ensuring that all passenger requirements are satisfied.

A path to profitability

Regional aviation in Latin America and Caribbean is crucial for connecting remote areas and providing essential transportation services. Served by numerous smaller carriers, the 30–50-seater aircraft market presents significant opportunities for growth and profitability.

The D328eco from Deutsche Aircraft sets new standards for operating economics, offering up to 50% improvement in operating costs compared to similar sized aircraft.

Versatility for any mission

The aircraft’s versatile payload capacity and ability to operate in extreme hot-and-high conditions and high -altitude runways, make it ideal for navigating the mountainous terrain and vast territories of Latin America under the toughest conditions.

Multi-role aircraft plays a vital role in addressing the diverse challenges faced by countries in the region. The adaptability and robustness of the D328eco allows it to be modified for different missions as required, offering remarkable operational flexibility and the capacity to adapt to a variety of special mission requirements, from emergency response and humanitarian aid to cargo, border patrol and ISR missions.

Talk to our team at the ATLA AGM

Curious about this state-of-the-art turboprop? Nils Heuer, Sales Director at Deutsche Aircraft, will be available to connect with potential operators and discuss how the D328eco represents the future of regional air travel in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Caribbean-Born Man Among 50 Accused In Shocking French Rape Case

News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: A Caribbean-born man is among 50 men accused in a disturbing case in France, where a woman was allegedly drugged and raped by dozens of men over nearly a decade.

Defendant Gisele Pelicot (C) and her lawyers Antoine Camus (L) and Stephane Babonneau (R) leave the courtroom during a break in the trial of her ex-husband, along with 49 other accused, for drugging her and enlisting dozens of strangers, including a Caribbean immigrant, to rape her for nearly ten years, on October 16, 2024 in Avignon. (Photo by CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP via Getty Images)

Joan Kwai, 26, originally from French Guiana, is on trial as part of a group of men charged with sexually assaulting Gisele Pelicot, 71, after being invited to her home by her husband, Dominique Pelicot.

The case has captivated global attention due to the horrific nature of the crimes. According to court testimony, Dominique Pelicot, a retired electrician, drugged his unsuspecting wife between 2011 and 2020, allowing other men to rape her while she was unconscious. Kwai, who moved to France at the age of 16, first visited the home on the day his daughter was born in 2019. He admitted to visiting a second time and admitted to planning a third visit, which was canceled.

Prosecutors revealed that Kwai initially claimed he did not question whether Mrs. Pelicot had consented but later admitted that she was unconscious and that it was rape. Kwai, described as having depressive tendencies, is the first of the accused to give testimony in the trial.

Mrs. Pelicot has waived her anonymity to become a symbol of strength for rape survivors in France. She has bravely faced the courtroom proceedings in Avignon, where she is often met with applause from supporters.

The trial involves a total of 50 men, divided into smaller groups to manage court proceedings. Fourteen of the accused have admitted their involvement, while the rest, including men from various professions, deny the charges and claim they were deceived by Dominique Pelicot.

Dominique Pelicot was arrested in September 2020 after being caught filming women without their consent in a supermarket. A search of his home revealed thousands of incriminating photos and videos. In addition to this case, Pelicot faces charges for the rape and murder of a 23-year-old estate agent in Paris in 1991.

The trial is expected to run until December, with heightened security due to public outrage and tensions surrounding the case.

Here’s The Latest On What The Caribbean Immigrant Judge Has Said About The Trump Case

News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: Caribbean immigrant and federal Judge Tanya Chutkan made headlines again on Friday, October 18th, when she ordered the release of over 1,800 pages of heavily redacted evidence linked to the case against former President Donald J. Trump. The materials were released despite objections from Trump’s legal team, who argued that making any information public ahead of the election would amount to interference.

Caribbean immigrant Judge Tanya Chutkan

“If the court withheld information that the public otherwise had a right to access solely because of the potential political consequences of releasing it, that withholding could itself constitute – or appear to be – election interference,” Judge Chutkan wrote in her October 17th ruling.

The evidence, tied to federal prosecutors’ claims that Trump sought to overturn the 2020 election, included a four-part appendix submitted by special counsel Jack Smith. Although much of the document remains redacted, Judge Chutkan defended the release, stating that withholding it could be seen as a form of election interference itself.

Trump has since reacted strongly, labeling Judge Chutkan, who was born in Jamaica, as “the most evil person” and accusing her of contributing to election interference by releasing the evidence. He criticized the decision during a podcast appearance, claiming the move was politically motivated and comparing the treatment of Capitol rioters to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

The newly released evidence mostly includes material already public, such as parts of former Vice President Mike Pence’s statements about not overturning the election results. While these documents do not appear to introduce major new allegations, they offer additional context to the case.

Judge Chutkan’s decision follows the Supreme Court’s July ruling that certain actions by a president may be protected under immunity. The court tasked Judge Chutkan with determining what evidence remains admissible, with Trump’s team set to respond by November 7th.

Despite the intense scrutiny, Judge Chutkan has maintained that legal decisions will not be influenced by Trump’s ongoing campaign schedule.

Here’s What You Should Know About Angelina Jolie’s British-Jamaican “Boyfriend”

News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: British Jamaican rapper, author, and activist Akala is making headlines alongside actress Angelina Jolie, 49, as the two were recently seen at the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall. This sighting has fueled speculation about their relationship, following Akala’s appearance on Jolie’s Instagram just a month ago, hinting at a budding romance or is it just friendship?.

Akala seen here attending the “Maria” Headline Gala during the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall on October 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Neil Mockford/Getty Images for BFI)

Jolie and Akala first sparked romance rumors in August when they were seen leaving her hotel together during the Venice International Film Festival.

Angelina Jolie also attending the “Maria” Headline Gala during the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall on October 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage)

At the time, In Touch claimed the two had been dating for “more than a year” after Akala joined Angelina and her daughters Zahara, 19, and Shiloh, 18, at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica in May last year.

The duo was also said to have enjoyed dinner together in Milan six months later, sparking further curiosity about their connection. 

However, according to TMZ, the pair are just good friends and Akala is reportedly in a relationship with Chanelle Newman, the co-founder and executive producer of his music and the Hip-hop Shakespeare Company.

Despite being in the middle of a legal dispute with her ex-husband Brad Pitt, Jolie radiated confidence in a striking black blazer paired with a plunging waistcoat, tailored trousers, and heeled boots. Her elegant ensemble, paired with minimal makeup and gold earrings, captured the spotlight. Akala, meanwhile, looked dapper in a turtleneck sweater worn under a double-breasted coat, dark jeans, and smart sneakers.

Here are 10 things to know about Akala, the British Jamaican talent linked to Jolie:

Full Name: Kingslee James McLean Daley, professionally known as Akala, was born on December 1, 1983, in Crawley, West Sussex.

Family Roots: Akala’s mother is Scottish, and his father is Jamaican. His sister is Grammy Award-winning artist Ms. Dynamite.

Pan-African Influence: Raised in Kentish Town, London, Akala credits the Caribbean Pan-African community for shaping his education and intellectual development.

Educational Advocacy: Akala, who skipped university, went on to receive honorary degrees from Oxford Brookes University and Brighton University for his educational work.

Musical Career: Akala’s debut album It’s Not a Rumour (2006) brought him widespread recognition, winning the MOBO Award for Best Hip-Hop Act.

Social Activism: A vocal advocate for racial equality, Akala’s work spans beyond music. His 2018 book Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire tackles themes of race, class, and inequality.

Shakespeare Connection: Akala founded The Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company in 2009 to explore the cultural connections between Shakespeare’s works and modern-day hip-hop.

Global Performances: Akala has performed across the world, becoming the first hip-hop artist to headline a concert in Vietnam in 2007.

Romantic Speculation: The growing rumors about Akala and Jolie’s relationship began after his appearance on her Instagram, sparking interest in their dynamic.

Cultural Impact: Akala continues to influence not only the music industry but also literary and educational circles through his activism, writing, and public speaking.

As the two continue to make appearances together, the world is keeping an eye on this intriguing pairing.

Ironically, Madonna also made headlines recently for her apparent romance with a Jamaican 28-year-old man.

Valentine’s Day Romantic Getaways Americas

News Americas, NEW YORK:: News Americas Now is offering the top 10 most romantic getaways in the Americas – Latin America and the Caribbean

1: Aruba: The number one most romantic in the Caribbean as chosen by readers is Aruba. The island is also a popular honeymoon destination. Aruba offers couples a mix of day-time and night-time activities that include romantic sunset walks on warm, sandy beaches and private coves as well as great fine dining options, or exploration of the natural beauty or cultural attractions in the day time.

2: Jamaica: The second most romantic getaway in the Caribbean is Jamaica. Couples can enjoy not only long stretches of beautiful beaches and waterfalls but great food, warm people, the rhythms of reggae and the natural beauty of this amazing island.

3: Puerto Rico: Chosen as the number three romantic getaway, Puerto Rico offers trails leading to dramatic waterfalls, cobblestone streets (Old San Juan) beautiful beaches and even casinos.

RELATED: The 10 Best Caribbean Hotels

4: St. Maarten/St. Martin: At number four, St. Maarten-St. Martin is a great two-for-one option since it offers a blend of European and Caribbean cultures that is both French and Dutch.  St. Martin boasts lavish elegance and secluded beaches featuring nude sunbathing or horse back riding while St. Maarten is a bustling center with casinos and clubs that offer up Zouk, calypso, reggae and jazz as well as some of the region’s best restaurants.

5: Barbados: Barbados, is at number five in the list & offers the beach, afternoon tea-British style, the pulsating sounds of reggae or calypso and a lot of chilling with a glass of rum under a star-studded sky.

MEXICO, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA

1: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: The number one most romantic spot in Mexico, Central and South America is Puerto Vallarta.  Banderas Bay was the site of Elizabeth Taylor’s and Richard Burton’s big romance and still offers fabulous beaches, top restaurants and boat rides to the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan.

2: Playa del Carmen, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Coming in at number two is Playa del Carmen, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, located on the beautiful Mexican Riviera. It is place where you can strolls or sunbathe on alabaster-white beaches; swim or dive in sparkling clear waters or explore ancient Mayan ruins in the day-time and enjoy quiet sunsets together.

3: Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Making the number three spot on the list is Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula. Here is a place that is blessed with a bounty of beaches while offering an energetic pulse or a laid-back ambiance to suit your taste.

RELATED: Top Americas Destinations Favored By the Wealthy 

4: Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: At number four is Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula. Cozumel makes for a perfect romantic rendezvous for two with its Caribbean beaches surrounded by coral reefs, golden beaches and turquoise waters as well as Mayan ruins, duty-free shopping and colorful festivals.

5: Buenos Aires, Capital Federal District, Argentina: At number five is the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires. What is more romantic than the sensual tango and this city is the birthplace of this erotic dance. You can also explore the ambience of old neighborhoods or linger at the restaurants while enjoying varied nightlife options after a romantic meal out.

Read more: Romantic Caribbean Getaways: Discover the Most Romantic Hotels

Valentine’s Day Romantic Getaways Americas

News Americas, NEW YORK:: News Americas Now is offering the top 10 most romantic getaways in the Americas – Latin America and the Caribbean

1: Aruba: The number one most romantic in the Caribbean as chosen by readers is Aruba. The island is also a popular honeymoon destination. Aruba offers couples a mix of day-time and night-time activities that include romantic sunset walks on warm, sandy beaches and private coves as well as great fine dining options, or exploration of the natural beauty or cultural attractions in the day time.

2: Jamaica: The second most romantic getaway in the Caribbean is Jamaica. Couples can enjoy not only long stretches of beautiful beaches and waterfalls but great food, warm people, the rhythms of reggae and the natural beauty of this amazing island.

3: Puerto Rico: Chosen as the number three romantic getaway, Puerto Rico offers trails leading to dramatic waterfalls, cobblestone streets (Old San Juan) beautiful beaches and even casinos.

RELATED: The 10 Best Caribbean Hotels

4: St. Maarten/St. Martin: At number four, St. Maarten-St. Martin is a great two-for-one option since it offers a blend of European and Caribbean cultures that is both French and Dutch.  St. Martin boasts lavish elegance and secluded beaches featuring nude sunbathing or horse back riding while St. Maarten is a bustling center with casinos and clubs that offer up Zouk, calypso, reggae and jazz as well as some of the region’s best restaurants.

5: Barbados: Barbados, is at number five in the list & offers the beach, afternoon tea-British style, the pulsating sounds of reggae or calypso and a lot of chilling with a glass of rum under a star-studded sky.

MEXICO, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA

1: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: The number one most romantic spot in Mexico, Central and South America is Puerto Vallarta.  Banderas Bay was the site of Elizabeth Taylor’s and Richard Burton’s big romance and still offers fabulous beaches, top restaurants and boat rides to the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan.

2: Playa del Carmen, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Coming in at number two is Playa del Carmen, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, located on the beautiful Mexican Riviera. It is place where you can strolls or sunbathe on alabaster-white beaches; swim or dive in sparkling clear waters or explore ancient Mayan ruins in the day-time and enjoy quiet sunsets together.

3: Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Making the number three spot on the list is Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula. Here is a place that is blessed with a bounty of beaches while offering an energetic pulse or a laid-back ambiance to suit your taste.

RELATED: Top Americas Destinations Favored By the Wealthy 

4: Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: At number four is Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula. Cozumel makes for a perfect romantic rendezvous for two with its Caribbean beaches surrounded by coral reefs, golden beaches and turquoise waters as well as Mayan ruins, duty-free shopping and colorful festivals.

5: Buenos Aires, Capital Federal District, Argentina: At number five is the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires. What is more romantic than the sensual tango and this city is the birthplace of this erotic dance. You can also explore the ambience of old neighborhoods or linger at the restaurants while enjoying varied nightlife options after a romantic meal out.

Read more: Romantic Caribbean Getaways: Discover the Most Romantic Hotels

The 10 Most Romantic Hotels In The Caribbean You Should Know

News Americas, DEERFIELD BEACH, FL: We spotlight the most romantic Caribbean hotels/Getaways in the Caribbean. Here’s the 10 you should know

1:  Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort- Eagle Beach, Aruba

If
you and your love are looking for an intimate, romantic getaway then Bucuti
& Tara Beach Resort is definitely the place for you. This 4-star resort is eco-friendly
and creates a relaxing, quiet atmosphere that is perfect for couples who are
seeking time to coddle with each other. With two top tier restaurants located
on the resort and a chance to have a romantic dinner on the beach, this resort
will give you a romantic vacation that you will never forget.

2.) Hermitage Bay – St. Mary’s, Antigua

This
luxury and secluded vacation spot is located in one of the more private area of
Antigua. Located right on the beach, couples can truly get a feel of being
detached from the rest of the world and being able to just enjoy each other’s
company. Hermitage Bay has suites that include split level lounges and patios
and access to private plunge pools. Guests will also get the chance to enjoy daily
a la carte menus that include freshly squeezed juices from the organic produce
grown in the area.

3.) Jamaica Inn-Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Known as one of the top hotels in the Caribbean since the 1950s, Jamaica Inn is an amazing vacation spot for couples to go for a romantic getaway in the Caribbean! This place earned its spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 16 Most Romantic Places to Stay in the World for a reason! Couples can select the Celebration of Love Package and receive all the best benefits to create a romantic atmosphere such as dinner by candlelight complete with a bottle of wine, a one-hour couples’ massage at the local spa, and so much more!

4.) OCEANZ Boutique Hotel Aruba- Noord, Aruba

OCEANZ
Boutique Hotel has it all! From providing transportation to one of the top 10
most beautiful beaches in the world, an incredibly attentive staff that
provides for all your vacation needs in whatever activity you choose including
lunch on the beach, and a wide array of international cuisine to choose from,
and even being welcomed with a great cocktail upon your arrival, this hotel is
fully equipped to give couples and anyone a great vacation experience.

5.) The Spa Retreat Boutique Hotel-Negril, Jamaica

Rated
#1 on TripAdvisor for several consecutive years and known as the ideal place
for weddings and romantic escapades, The Spa Retreat Boutique Hotel has a lot
to offer couples looking to sneak away for a private and romantic getaway. The
hotel offers several activities that guests can engage in, including a tour of
the area. The hotel amenities include a full-service spa, a farm-to-table
restaurant and bar and a seawater pool.

6.) Sandals Royal Plantation-Ocho Rios, Jamaica 

The
Sandals Royal Plantation Resort has everything necessary for a fun-filled and
relaxing vacation for couples. This resort includes service provided on private
beaches located on the resort from the well-renowned Guild of Professional
English Butlers service. Guests at this resort can also have the great chance
to experience cuisine inspired by French, Mediterranean, and, of course,
Caribbean influences. With 24-hour in-suite dining and the Caribbean’s only
Champagne and Caviar Bar, this resort is an ideal place to go for a great couples
get-away.

7.) Galley Bay Resort & Spa-Five Islands Village, Antigua

You and your loved one can experience an incredibly fun and relaxing romantic getaway, at the Galley Bay Resort in Caribbean country of Antigua. Start your vacation with a bang by going snorkeling, kayaking, or working out in the resort’s incredible Fitness Center! Then, you can indulge your senses at the Indulge Spa, pampering yourself with a body wrap or a facial. Last but not least, experience the local cuisine by checking out one of the hotels three open-air restaurants on site.

8.) Couples Sans Souci-Ocho Rios, Jamaica

This
beautiful resort boasts top-notch international cuisine and is located near
some of Jamaica’s most beautiful natural attractions. Guests can enjoy the
experience of braving Jamaica’s famous Dunn’s Falls, or on the more relaxing
side, enjoy the local natural mineral springs in the area. With a plethora of
resort activities to choose from, including amazing spa treatments as well,
Couples Sans Souci is a great choice for a couple’s getaway!

9.) Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa-Palm-Eagle Beach, Aruba

If
you are looking for a romantic experience that includes a beach-side spa
inspired by Caribbean-Balinese influences, an all-inclusive a-la-carte dining
option and the chance to partake in Yoga and Pilates classes, then Manchebo
Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect place for you and your partner. This
resort has amenities that include spa-like bathrooms and deluxe room options
that give you a great view of the beautiful ocean surrounding the resort so you
can also soak in the view.

10.) Jade Mountain Resort-Soufriere, St. Lucia

Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia.

The Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia will give you a beautiful, secluded and luxury romantic experience. The area is located close to the World’s Heritage site – the famous Pitons and surrounded by a gorgeous, tropical landscape that includes two lovely beaches that are near coral reefs. Resort guests will have a chance to also experience private biking and hiking trails, a kayaking center and a scuba center. Guests can further relax by checking out the local professional spa or they experience the islands culture by visiting the local library and art gallery. It’s an experience worth having at the Jade Mountain Resort.

By Jordan Bowles