Caribbean Immigrant Judge Criticizes Trump’s Lawyers, Approves Redacted Filing Release

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 3, 2024: Caribbean-American Judge Tanya S. Chutkan, overseeing the federal case against former President Donald J. Trump related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, criticized Trump’s defense attorneys as she approved the redacted release of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s latest filing.

Caribbean immigrant Judge Tanya Chutkan

Judge Chutkan, who was born in Jamaica and is a naturalized US citizen, is tasked with reviewing the evidence Smith plans to present, line by line, to determine which allegations can be used in court while adhering to the Supreme Court’s recent ruling that grants presidents broad immunity for most official actions. Her challenge will be to decide which actions taken by Trump were official presidential duties and which were conducted in his capacity as a candidate, making them subject to prosecution.

In her order on Wednesday, releasing Smith’s filing, Chutkan admonished Trump’s legal team for focusing on political rhetoric rather than addressing the legal issues. “These accusations, for which Defendant provides no support, continue a pattern of defense filings focusing on political rhetoric rather than addressing the legal issues at hand,” she wrote, calling their tactics “unbefitting of experienced defense counsel.”

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan (L), pays respect to the late retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor as she lay in repose at the U.S. Supreme Court on December 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Smith’s filing aims to prove that Trump’s actions in 2020 were taken as a candidate rather than as president, meaning they would not be protected by immunity. Although Trump’s lawyers opposed making the filing public, Chutkan ordered its release with limited redactions, over Trump’s objections. Trump reacted angrily to the decision, posting on his Truth Social account that the case was politically motivated, calling it an “Unconstitutional Witch Hunt.”

Attorneys for former U.S. President Donald Trump Todd Blanche (L) and Emil Bove (C) arrive at the E. Barrett Prettyman U.S. Court House on October 16, 2023 in Washington, DC. Blanche and Bove attended a hearing held by U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on Special Counsel Jack Smith’s request for a partial gag order in the USA v. Trump case. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The Supreme Court ruling gives immunity to presidential actions deemed part of the “core” exercise of executive power. However, if Trump’s actions – such as pressuring state officials or spreading false claims about the election – are found to have been taken in his personal capacity as a candidate, they could be used in court to support the charges against him.

Chutkan is expected to make decisions regarding immunity by late October, following written submissions from both the defense and prosecution. Her rulings could be appealed, with the Supreme Court likely to have the final say on which parts of Trump’s indictment will proceed to trial.

First Dominican in MLB and Detroit Tigers’ First Black Player, Passes at 92

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 3, 2024: Ozzie Virgil Sr., the first Dominican Republic born player in Major League Baseball when he debuted at third base for the New York Giants in 1956, and later the Detroit Tigers’ first Black player, passed away on Sunday at his home in Monte Cristi, near the Dominican Republic’s border with Haiti. He was 92.

FLASHBACK – Ozzie Virgil Sr., the first Dominican-born player in the MLB, throws out a ceremonial first pitch before the game between the New York Mets and the Atlanta Braves on September 26, 2018 at Citi Field in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

His son, Ozzie Virgil Jr., a former Major League player himself, confirmed the cause of death as pancreatitis. Virgil’s death was announced by Major League Baseball.

Virgil enjoyed a nine-season career in the major leagues, primarily as a third baseman. While his fielding was exceptional, his hitting struggles limited his opportunities to secure regular spots in starting lineups. After his playing days, he continued his career in baseball as a coach and scout.

Ozzie Virgil Sr., the first Dominican-born player in the MLB, throws out a ceremonial first pitch before the game between the New York Mets and the Atlanta Braves on September 26, 2018 at Citi Field in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

When Virgil made his major league debut on September 23, 1956, playing against the Philadelphia Phillies, little attention was paid to his skin color or Dominican heritage. By then, the Giants already had prominent players like Willie Mays in center field and Puerto Rican pitcher Ruben Gomez, and other Latin American players from Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela had already made their mark in the league.

However, Virgil was a trailblazer for the wave of Dominican talent that would follow him into Major League Baseball, including Hall of Fame pitchers Juan Marichal and Pedro Martinez, and outfielder Vladimir Guerrero Sr.

Virgil played only three games with the Giants in 1956 and 96 games in 1957, the franchise’s final season in New York before relocating to San Francisco. The Giants were aggressive in signing talent from Latin America, which included stars like Marichal and the Alou brothers—Felipe, Jesus, and Matty.

In January 1958, Virgil was traded to the Detroit Tigers, a team, along with the Boston Red Sox, that had yet to field a Black player. Virgil recalled to Michigan History in 1997 that he was uncertain of his role with the Tigers, as they had never previously invited a Black player to spring training.

Facing pressure from activists to integrate their roster, the Tigers called Virgil up from the minors in June 1958. Yet, his reception from Detroit fans, both white and Black, was lukewarm. He later noted that Latino players were not always accepted as Black by the African American community. Larry Doby, who integrated the American League in 1947 with the Cleveland Indians, would join the Tigers as their first African American player in 1959.

Virgil played 49 games for the Tigers in 1958, batting .244 before returning to the minors. He appeared with the Tigers again in 1960 and split the 1961 season between Detroit and the Kansas City Athletics. His last MLB appearances came in brief stints with the Baltimore Orioles in 1962 and the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1965.

Following a trade back to the Giants in 1965, Virgil had limited playing time before retiring from the field in 1969 after a brief pinch-hitting appearance. He transitioned into coaching, first as a third-base coach for the Giants and later as a coach for the Montreal Expos, San Diego Padres, and Seattle Mariners.

Over his MLB career, Virgil played in 324 games, finishing with a .231 batting average and 14 home runs.

Born Osvaldo Jose Virgil Pichardo on May 17, 1932, in Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic, he moved to the Bronx with his family as a teenager. He attended DeWitt Clinton High School but played baseball with a local Puerto Rican team instead of the school team. His professional baseball journey began when the Giants signed him for a $300 bonus in 1953.

Virgil is survived by his son, Ozzie Jr., a two-time All-Star catcher who played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, and Toronto Blue Jays, as well as another son, Marcus; four daughters, Linda, Justine, Ruth, and Santina; and nine grandchildren.

He spent many years as an instructor at the New York Mets’ Dominican baseball academy, and in 2006, the Osvaldo Virgil National Airport was named in his honor in Monte Cristi.

Reflecting on his pioneering role, Virgil said in a 2015 interview with Simonetti Sports, “I may not have been the most talented, and I may not hold the records or any huge numbers, but I’ll always have a special number: number one.”

S&P Predicts Slower Growth for The Bahamas

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 3, 2024: The Bahamas is projected to see slower economic growth in 2024, according to a new report by rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P). The agency affirmed The Bahamas’ B+ long-term credit ratings with a stable outlook, noting that the country’s economic growth will decelerate to 1.8 percent next year before stabilizing in the following years.

A view of the beach in Bimini, Bahamas on May 1, 2024. (Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

S&P highlighted The Bahamas’ recent economic recovery, which has helped reduce the fiscal deficit and contain the national debt. However, the agency warned that significant short-term debt and refinancing risks remain, with nearly 25.9 percent of the nation’s debt maturing within the next year. S&P expressed confidence in the government’s ability to manage this debt, noting the domestic market’s liquidity could absorb it.

The report also acknowledged the impact of global economic conditions, specifically the expected slowdown in the U.S., which is The Bahamas’ main tourism market. Despite this, S&P believes that successful implementation of energy policy reforms could bolster medium-term growth. The government’s energy reforms, which include modernizing infrastructure and diversifying energy sources toward solar and natural gas, are expected to result in long-term savings and increased efficiency.

S&P reaffirmed its short-term sovereign credit rating of ‘B’ for The Bahamas, noting that ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts will likely prevent significant increases in debt. However, the agency cautioned that the rating could be lowered if the government reverses fiscal progress or if there is a sharp decline in per capita income. Conversely, the rating could be upgraded if public finance reforms, such as the introduction of corporate income tax and improvements in state-owned enterprises (SOEs), are implemented more swiftly than expected.

Tourism remains the cornerstone of The Bahamas’ economy, with total arrivals reaching 9.6 million in 2023, significantly surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The new cruise terminal in Nassau, which opened in May 2023, played a key role in boosting these numbers. S&P pointed out that the tourism sector will continue to drive growth, while other sectors like financial services and fintech present opportunities for future expansion.

The agency also noted that The Bahamas is well-positioned to tap into its blue economy, particularly through carbon credits generated by its extensive mangroves and seagrass beds. These natural assets could provide a new revenue stream in the medium term.

S&P expects The Bahamas’ net debt to fall to around 70.3 percent of GDP by the end of 2024, down from 80.9 percent in 2020, though interest payments are projected to remain high, exceeding 15 percent of government revenues for at least the next three years.

Get Ready For ‘Jamaica Marg’ In India

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 2, 2024: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that the road in front of the Jamaica High Commission in New Delhi has been officially named Jamaica Marg, symbolizing the growing ties between India and Jamaica.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Jamaica Prime minister Andrew Holness before their meeting at Hyderabad house on October 1, 2024 in New Delhi, India. (Photo by Sonu Mehta/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

Speaking at a joint press conference alongside Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness on October 1st, PM Modi, who has pushed a Hindu nationalist agenda, expressed optimism that the relationship between the two nations will grow “faster than Usain Bolt.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica, during a joint press conference, at Hyderabad House on October 1, 2024 in New Delhi, India. (Photo by Raj K Raj/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

Highlighting the role of sports in strengthening their bond, PM Modi noted: “Both India and Jamaica are cricket-loving countries, and sports play a very strong and important role in our relations.” He emphasized that the people of India hold a special affection for cricketers, adding, “The outcome of today’s discussions will accelerate our relations even faster than Usain Bolt, and we will continue to reach new heights.”

Prime Minister Modi also praised the Indian community in Jamaica, calling them a “living example” of cultural heritage. He acknowledged the nearly 70,000 people of Indian origin in Jamaica and thanked Prime Minister Holness for his support and care for them.

The Jamaican Prime Minister’s visit to India – Jamaica Marg, from September 30th to October 3rd, marks the first official bilateral visit of a Jamaican Prime Minister to India. PM Modi expressed confidence that this historic visit would inject new energy into both India-Jamaica relations and India’s engagement with the wider Caribbean region.

India has been a “reliable and committed development partner” in Jamaica’s growth, PM Modi added, underscoring the shared history that connects the two nations. Diplomatic relations between India and Jamaica were established on August 12, 1962. Following the visit of PM Indira Gandhi to Jamaica (1975), a resident Mission was established in Kingston in 1976. A Resident Mission of Jamaica in India started functioning in 2020.

Holness on Tuesday acknowledged the bilateral relations it shares with India, saying that Jamaica has a lot to learn from the country.

“As India positions itself as the knowledge capital of the world, we recognize the remarkable strides made by your government in STEM education and digitalization,” he said. “We, therefore, look forward to learning from India as a beacon of technological advancement and in the global south as the government of Jamaica seeks to equip itself and its people with the relevant skills to navigate this changing and dynamic world.”

United Airlines Launches Non-Stop Flights from Newark to Dominica

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 1, 2024: Dominica is set to receive a boost in tourism with the launch of a new non-stop flight from New York/Newark to Dominica’s Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM). United Airlines will operate the new service starting on February 15, 2025, with flights departing from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) every Saturday. This marks the second direct flight route from the U.S. to Dominica.

United is set to fly directly to Dominica next year

The decision to introduce this new route comes after significant upgrades to Dominica’s Douglas-Charles Airport, including a 6,351-foot runway extension and new runway grooving, which enhance safety, reduce flight cancellations, and accommodate larger aircraft. The terminal also received improvements to increase capacity and efficiency.

“This new service by United Airlines is a major step toward achieving the island’s ambitious goals,” said Dominica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton. “It will alleviate the access constraints Dominica has faced for years.”

This direct connection from the tri-state area, one of Dominica’s largest U.S. source markets, is expected to provide a major boost to the island’s tourism industry. Several new hotels are also set to open in 2025, adding nearly 500 rooms and increasing hotel capacity by 25%, just in time for what is anticipated to be one of Dominica’s busiest travel seasons.

Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority, highlighted the significance of the route. “The increased capacity will allow U.S.-based tour operators to confidently book group travel to Dominica, offering more travelers the opportunity to experience our world-class diving, hiking, wellness, and cultural offerings.”

The launch of this new flight also coincides with Dominica’s famous Mas Domnik Carnival, set for March 3-4, 2025. Known as the “Real Mas,” this Carnival celebrates traditional customs with calypso music, competitions, and exciting festivities. More details on the event will be announced soon.

“We are proud to partner with Discover Dominica Authority to add Dominica to our global route network,” said Matt Stevens, United Airlines’ Vice President of International Network. “This route will give our customers access to one of the most unique destinations in the world.”

For more information or to plan your trip to Dominica, visit www.discoverdominica.com. Direct flights can be booked on united.com or via the United app, pending government approvals.

Reggae Star Gyptian Drops New Single

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 1, 2024: Reggae and Dancehall star Gyptian has dropped a captivating new sexy and raunchy single and music video titled “In the Dark.” Released through VPAL Music, the sultry track explores a secretive, late-night romance that flourishes behind closed doors.

Gyptian, seen here performing at Reggae Land at Milton Keynes Bowl, Milton Keynes, UK on 3 August 2024, has dropped a new single and video. (Photo by David Corio/Redferns)

Born Windel Beneto Edwards, Gyptian is currently single and resides in Jamaica. Despite his musical success, the artist has faced personal tragedy—his twin sons passed away prematurely in June 2006. Four years later, on June 8, 2010, he survived a motorbike accident, sustaining minor head and shoulder injuries.

A devoted Rastafarian, Gyptian’s faith is reflected in his music, including tracks like “Leave Us Alone,” where he incorporates chants honoring Emperor Haile Selassie I.

Produced by Spot On Records and Mek Cent$ Entertainment, “In the Dark” features smooth melodies and lush background vocals, delivering a sleek and seductive vibe. Gyptian’s soulful voice glides effortlessly through the track, drawing listeners into the intrigue of the hidden affair, while the airy beat provides a rhythmic pulse. The music video, released alongside the single, visually captures the essence of the story.

Watch it here

Nearly Half of Haitians Facing Hunger Amid Ongoing Gang Violence

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 1, 2024: Nearly half of Haiti’s population is facing severe hunger as violence and economic instability continue to grip the nation. A new report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) reveals that 5.41 million Haitians are experiencing “high levels of acute food insecurity” between August 2024 and February 2025, with gang violence and inflation driving the crisis.

People wait for a food distribution in a displaced persons camp at the Lycée Marie Jeanne in Port-au-Prince on September 30, 2024. The UN Security Council extended on Monday its authorization of the multinational policing mission in crime-ravaged Haiti, but without any call to transform it into a UN peacekeeping mission, as floated by Port-au-Prince. (Photo by CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP via Getty Images)

The report warns that 6,000 people are suffering from “catastrophic levels of hunger” as armed groups continue to disrupt daily life, forcing families to flee their homes and cutting off access to essential supplies.

Children play on school desks that have been taken out of classrooms so people can sleep inside at Ecole National Joseph C. Bernard DeFreres displacement camp on August 27, 2024. Residents of areas in Port-au-Prince have been forced to take refuge in camps such as this rather than stay in gang occupied territories.

Haiti’s escalating violence, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, has severely hampered the delivery of food and humanitarian aid. Armed gangs, controlling nearly 80 percent of the city and key roads, have made it difficult for households to access basic foodstuffs, contributing to the crisis. As a result, food costs now consume up to 70 percent of household income, making it increasingly difficult for families to feed themselves.

The situation is further exacerbated by high inflation and the lingering effects of past climate disasters, including Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and the 2021 earthquake.

Despite international efforts to restore order, including a UN-backed mission led by Kenya, the violence continues to surge. According to the UN, at least 3,661 people have been killed in 2024 alone due to gang violence, and more than 700,000 people have been displaced in recent years.

The report underscores that the humanitarian crisis is unlikely to improve in the near future. Between March and June 2025, the need for food assistance is expected to surpass available aid, as violence continues to disrupt supply chains and worsen displacement.

Amazon Building First Delivery Center in the Caribbean

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 1, 2024: Amazon has announced plans to build its first delivery center in the Caribbean.

Located in the municipality of Dorado, Puerto Rico, this new facility is set to enhance the distribution and delivery of products throughout the region, including the island of Puerto Rico. The 100,000-square-foot facility will create more than 100 full- and part-time jobs and provide over 200 opportunities for drivers through Amazon’s Delivery Service Partners (DSP) program. The facility’s construction is expected to be completed by mid-2025.

“Puerto Rico is an ideal place for business, and our new delivery center will allow us to serve customers faster and more efficiently,” said Ashleigh de la Torre, Amazon’s Vice President of Public Policy.

Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi expressed pride in the project, stating, “Each new economic initiative, like this one, reaffirms the resilience and potential of the Puerto Rican people and showcases the best of what our island offers to the world.”

Manolo Cidre, Secretary of the Department of Economic Development and Commerce, added, “Amazon’s decision to enter Puerto Rico demonstrates the growing confidence in our market. This investment will create valuable job opportunities and foster collaboration with local service providers. It also underscores Puerto Rico’s appeal to both local and foreign investors.”

Grenadian Police Officer Charged With Incest Due Back in Court This Month

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 1, 2024: A police officer in Grenada facing multiple sexual offense charges, including incest, is scheduled to return to court later this month.

Grenada police officer Nigel Joseph, facing 15 sex-related charges, including incest, is set to return to court on October 28, 2024.

Corporal Nigel Joseph, attached to the Special Services Unit (SSU) of the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF), appeared in the Sauteurs Magistrate’s Court on September 23, 2024, where he was charged with 15 sex-related offenses, including incest with one of his daughters. Dressed in a blue and white shirt with black pants, Joseph covered his face with a red bandana as he arrived at the court.

Joseph, 48, was arrested on September 21, 2024, and has since been granted EC$50,000 bail with two sureties. As part of his bail conditions, he must surrender his travel documents, relocate from St. Patrick, report to the Hermitage Police Station weekly, and avoid contact with the victim. He is also required to seek permission from the court to leave Grenada and inform the authorities of any travel to Carriacou.

Joseph is due back in court on October 28, 2024. He has been suspended from active duty pending the outcome of the case.

The charges against Joseph highlight growing concerns about incest cases in Grenada. Senior Crown Counsel Howard Pinnock, of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, recently noted an increase in such cases during the opening of the Assizes.

This case is reminiscent of a 2016 conviction in which Cpl. Lennard Benjamin was sentenced to 15 years in prison for incest with his daughter in River Road, St. George’s.

Joseph faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted of incest involving a child under 13 years of age. His alleged offenses are said to have taken place in areas like River Antoine and Mt. Rose in St. Andrew and St. Patrick.

Kris Kristofferson’s Caribbean Inspiration

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, September 30, 2024: As the world mourns the passing of country music legend Kris Kristofferson, few may realize that the icon paid tribute to the Caribbean in two significant ways during his career.

FLASHBACK – Singer Kris Kristofferson performs onstage during Hardly Strictly Bluegrass at Golden Gate Park on October 1, 2016 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

One tribute can be found in the lyrics of his song “Castaway” from the ironically titled Feeling Mortal album, while the other was a Caribbean-flavored duet with Rita Coolidge, his wife from 1973 to 1980, called “A Song I’d Like to Sing,” featured on their album Full Moon.

Kristofferson, known for his trailblazing music career and memorable role in the 1976 remake of A Star Is Born, passed away on September 28, 2024, at the age of 88. Reports indicate he was surrounded by family, though no cause of death has been confirmed. The celebrated singer-songwriter had announced his retirement in 2021 after gradually stepping away from the spotlight.

One month before his passing, Kristofferson listed his ranch on Northern California’s Mendocino Coast for $17.2 million. Known for writing songs that “come from the soul,” Kristofferson’s work resonated deeply with fans, offering poetic reflections on life, loss, and love.

He also made a name for himself on the silver screen, starring in films such as Blade (1998) as vampire hunter Abraham Whistler, and in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974), where he played the love interest of Ellen Burstyn’s character. In 2016, Kristofferson was diagnosed with Lyme Disease after initially being misdiagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Dementia, causing significant memory loss. His wife, Lisa Meyers, revealed that treatment for Lyme Disease dramatically improved his condition, although he continued to have both good and bad days.

Kristofferson’s connection to the Caribbean can be seen in the lyrics of his song Castaway, where he paints a vivid image of “sailing on the Caribbean sea” and spotting a “little fishing vessel drifting aimlessly,” mirroring the feeling of being lost and adrift.

Lyrics from “Castaway” by Kris Kristofferson: “One day as I was sailing on the Caribbean Sea
I spied a little fishing vessel drifting aimlessly
Her sails were torn and tattered, and her wheel was spinning free
I told myself that little boat sure looks a lot like me…”

His tribute to the Caribbean through both music and lyrics offers a glimpse into his creative soul, as he weaved the region’s imagery into his work.

Kristofferson was also an activist who supported immigrants’ rights and other causes, including workers’ and farmers’ rights. He was inspired by Cesar Chavez’s work defending immigrant workers and became a supporter of the United Farm Workers (UFW). Kristofferson said that farm workers are essential and deserve help because they are paid so little. He believed that as an artist, it was his duty to speak out for the causes he cared about. Kristofferson was also known for his 1989 album Third World Warrior, which focused on Central America and the effects of US policy in the region.

Kris Kristofferson is survived by his wife of 41 years, Lisa Meyers, and his eight children: Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, Johnny, Kelly, and Blake.