GE Vernova announces the first Caribbean H-Class order

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, Dec. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) announced that it has secured an order to supply its Class H natural gas-fired combined cycle power generation equipment for Generadora San Felipe Limited’s (GSF) 470 megawatt (MW) power plant in Punta Caucedo, Boca Chica, Dominican Republic. This project is GE Vernova’s first H-Class gas turbine order in the Caribbean. It will contribute to implementation of the Dominican Republic’s climate ambitions and sustainable development goals by supporting the expansion of renewable energy through its dispatchable power profile.

In recent years this Caribbean country, one of the fastest growing economies in Latin America, has managed to replace most of its oil-based electricity generation capacity with natural gas. Natural gas accounts for almost half of all energy generated in the Dominican Republic and plays a crucial role in the country’s energy transition, supporting and complementing the expansion of renewable sources.

“Our new plant, powered by GE Vernova’s highly efficient H-Class technology, will support our efforts to provide less carbon-intensive and more reliable electricity, which is critical for the country’s productivity growth and people’s well-being,” said Antonio Ramírez, General Manager of Generadora San Felipe. “We rely on the strong reputation of HA technology and turned to GE Vernova, a leader in innovation on the path to decarbonisation, based on a long-standing collaboration between our two companies.”

The new San Felipe power plant has a multi-shaft generator block, equipped with a GE Vernova 7HA.02 gas turbine coupled to an H65 generator, an STF-A650 steam turbine coupled to an H35 generator, a triple-pressure heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) with superheat and a condenser.

“The San Felipe power plant development is a very ambitious project, and we are proud to support it,” said Dave Ross, President of GE Vernova’s Gas Power business in the Americas region. “Once completed, the plant is expected to be one of the most efficient in the Caribbean and can be configured with post-combustion carbon capture systems to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions.”

A New Caribbean Christmas Song To Make Spirits Bright

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 16, 2024: Jamaican dancehall star Jahvillani has released a festive new track, “Criss-Muss Time,” offering fans a stylish and energetic anthem for the holiday season. The single, released on December 6 via VP Records, blends Jahvillani’s signature swagger with a UK drill-inspired beat produced by Tevin “YGF” Richards.

Jahvillani has released ‘Criss Muss Time’

In “Criss-Muss Time,” Jahvillani showcases his lifestyle with lyrics highlighting luxury, confidence, and his undeniable presence in the dancehall scene. With lines like “Dem cyaa call me nuh underdog,” the artist reaffirms his standing in the genre. Accompanying the track is a visually striking music video directed by DaManiac Visualz, also released on December 6.

Listen to “Criss-Muss Time” HERE: Jahvillani.lnk.to/CrissMussTime
Watch the Music Video HERE: YouTube

Jahvillani has cemented his place as a modern dancehall force, amassing over 100 million YouTube views and 85,000 monthly Spotify listeners. Known for his dynamic storytelling and commanding deejay skills, he has captivated fans globally through performances on platforms like Capital Xtra and BBC Radio 1Xtra.

His 2022 hit “Rockefeller” was highlighted by NPR Music as one of the year’s top tracks, and recent releases such as “Haad Ayse Pickney” and “Stars” have further solidified his reputation. In November, Jahvillani performed at Kingston’s Big Yard Studios for BBC Radio 1Xtra, showcasing his versatility as a top-tier dancehall artist.

About Jahvillani
Born Dujon Edwards in Saint Ann, Jamaica, Jahvillani blends vivid storytelling with modern dancehall and trap influences. His breakout hits, including “Wileside Government” and “Nuh Reason,” brought him international acclaim, and his debut album Dirt to Bentley in 2021 featured collaborations with artists like Skillibeng and Kranium. His upcoming album Re[tro]spect promises to continue this trajectory, fueled by tracks such as “MONEY-POWER-RESPECT” and “Gad Speed.”

“Criss-Muss Time” is now streaming on all major platforms, bringing the perfect mix of festive vibes and dancehall flair to the holiday season.

Cricket West Indies Names New CEO

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 16, 2024: Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced the appointment of Chris Dehring as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ushering in what officials describe as a transformative chapter for West Indies cricket. Dehring, a renowned Jamaican born entrepreneur and media innovator, will officially assume his role on February 1, 2025.

The announcement followed a global search process that attracted over 50 applicants from Europe, Australia, Afghanistan, India, and the Caribbean. CWI’s President, Dr. Kishore Shallow, described Dehring as “the best of the best,” highlighting his extensive track record of success across business, media, and cricket administration.

“Chris Dehring represents the best of the best—an innovator, strategist, business magnate, and passionate advocate for West Indies cricket,” Dr. Shallow said. “His return as an executive at West Indies cricket signals the dawn of an exciting new era as we work to reclaim our position as a dominant force in world cricket.”

Dehring is widely recognized as the founder of SportsMax, the Caribbean’s first sports television broadcaster, which reshaped the region’s media landscape by airing global events such as the FIFA World Cup and the NBA. He also co-founded Dehring, Bunting & Golding, Jamaica’s first investment bank, which became a financial powerhouse before being acquired by Scotiabank.

Additionally, his entrepreneurial ventures include launching ReadyTV, Jamaica’s first digital broadcast television service, and ReadyNET, the country’s first satellite internet provider.

Dehring’s contributions to cricket are well-established, having served as Managing Director and CEO of ICC Cricket World Cup 2007, where he successfully organized one of the most complex multi-nation sporting events in the Caribbean’s history.

In a statement, Dehring expressed enthusiasm for his return to West Indies cricket leadership.

“West Indies cricket has always held a special place in my heart,” Dehring said. “As a unifying force and a symbol of pride for our region, I am honored to return to an organization that holds great significance to our people. Together with the CWI team and stakeholders, I am committed to driving innovation, fostering talent, and reigniting the passion for West Indies cricket, both at home and globally.”

Dehring’s vision and expertise are expected to play a pivotal role in the resurgence of West Indies cricket, a sport deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the region.

Fight Over Butch Stewart Estate Spills Into Public

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 16, 2024: The family feud over the multi-billion-dollar estate of the late Jamaican-born hotel mogul, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, has spilled further into the public eye, with a newly issued open letter adding fuel to the dispute surrounding the Sandals Resorts empire.

FLASHBACK – Invest Caribbean presented the ICN Leadership Awardee to the Gordon ‘Butch Stewart’ in 2014 for his investment, commitment, and dedication to the Caribbean. (Sharon Bennett image)

Since Stewart’s passing in January 2021, legal battles over his will and the management of his Bahamian-held estate have embroiled his family members in courts in Jamaica and the United States. The latest development sees U.S.-based Cheryl Hamersmith-Stewart, her three children, and Robert ‘Bobby’ Stewart, another of Butch’s Jamaican-born children, addressing an open letter to Adam Stewart, the CEO of Sandals Resorts International and ATL Group.

In the letter, the signatories accuse Adam of engaging in a media campaign via the Jamaica Observer, where he serves as executive chairman, to allegedly misrepresent their late father’s intentions for his estate.

“We are deeply disappointed that you have chosen to submit Butch’s family – our family – to this ‘trial by media,’” the letter states. “We cannot allow you to impugn the integrity of your father’s closest advisers and friends.”

The letter further claims that Butch Stewart left clear instructions for the division of his assets, which include provisions for a family-run board of directors with representation from all sides of the family. According to the letter, Adam Stewart was intended to receive a 16.67% share of the estate, rather than total control.

The authors of the letter allege that Adam has sought to overturn his father’s wishes and “resist the proper administration” of the estate. They accuse him of attempting to replace the current executors and withholding necessary financial information, which they claim has delayed the process of distributing the estate’s assets.

“These actions have disproportionately affected those siblings whom you have excluded from the benefits of the companies founded by your father,” the letter asserts, further stating that such resistance raises concerns about the future of the businesses and the interests of Sandals’ loyal employees.

The family members emphasize their commitment to ensuring that Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart’s wishes are honored. “We remain absolutely committed to seeing to it that your father’s wishes are implemented, not defied, and that the businesses he worked so hard to create will flourish for the benefit of all stakeholders, not just you.”

The public nature of this dispute underscores the deep divisions within the Stewart family and casts a shadow over the legacy of one of the Caribbean’s most iconic business moguls.

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Blue Diamond Resorts Cuts Check-In Times With New Online Pre Check-In

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News Americas,  ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, Dec. 12, 2024: Blue Diamond Resorts is revolutionizing the all-inclusive industry with its latest innovation: Online Pre Check-In: Fast Track Your Vacation. Now available at Royalton Luxury Resorts and Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts, this feature slashes check-in times by up to 50%, meaning guests can dive into relaxation faster than ever before. Designed to deliver a seamless, stress-free arrival, this tool ensures every guest’s journey begins with ease, setting the tone for an unforgettable getaway from the moment they step foot on the property.

“Today’s travelers are increasingly seeking simpler, more efficient processes, and this is especially true in the all-inclusive sector, where the demand for seamless experiences continues to rise. The launch of this new feature addresses this need by streamlining the check-in process and cutting wait times by half,” said Daniel Lozano, Senior VP of Operations for Blue Diamond Resorts. “As we continue to evolve with the changing expectations of our guests, this innovation is part of our commitment to providing elevated service and ensuring every moment of the vacation is enjoyable.”

With the Online Pre Check-In, guests can start the registration process in advance, ensuring a smooth and expedited check-in experience upon arrival. By visiting either www.royaltonresorts.com or www.planethollywoodhotels.com and following a few simple steps—entering their details, uploading required documents, and submitting the information—guests are all set before they even leave home. Upon arrival, those who have completed the process will have access to an exclusive fast-track lane, where their documents are swiftly validated, allowing them to check-in faster and jump straight into vacation mode.

Powered by secure, advanced hospitality technology, this new tool significantly improves efficiency, ensuring a smoother start to every stay. It not only enhances the guest experience but also allows travelers to begin enjoying the resort’s world-class amenities—from pristine beaches and pools to gourmet dining, luxurious spas, and unique entertainment offerings—without unnecessary delays.

Blue Diamond Resorts continues to elevate the all-inclusive experience, and the introduction of the Online Pre Check-In reflects their commitment to making every moment of the vacation count. For more information, visit royaltonresorts.com and planethollywoodhotels.com.

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 60 properties, exceeding 18,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee. To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com

These Top Luxury Resorts Are Opening In The Caribbean Next Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 12, 2024: The Caribbean is set to welcome an array of luxurious new resorts in 2025, offering travelers unparalleled experiences in some of the world’s most stunning destinations. From secluded private islands to vibrant beachfront properties, these resorts represent the best in luxury, relaxation, and adventure. Here’s a preview of some of the additional new top resorts set to debut across the Caribbean next year.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel, Belize

This marks Four Seasons’ first private island in the Americas. Located on the sunset side of Caye Chapel, Belize, the Four Seasons Private Residence 19 will redefine luxury with panoramic ocean views and elegantly designed outdoor spaces. This 4,807-square-foot residence, priced at $6.5 million, will feature a private plunge pool, waterfront access, and amenities like an outdoor kitchen, fire pits, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.

It is also perched near the UNESCO-listed Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, home to the Western Hemisphere’s largest barrier reef. The property offers unmatched access to Belize’s natural wonders while embodying the signature comfort of Four Seasons hospitality.

The island will also feature a 104-key resort, 18 overwater bungalows, and 24 exclusive residences, blending modern luxury with pristine surroundings. Designed by Mauricio Gomez de Tudo and Taller G, with interiors by Meyer Davis, Residence 19 integrates natural materials and sophisticated finishes, making it a haven for relaxation and entertaining.

Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa

The Cayman Islands will host its first Hyatt-branded hotel on Seven Mile Beach. The Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa will feature a spa, fitness center, pools, and Camp Hyatt for kids, catering to both families and luxury-seekers. It is set to become the pinnacle of Caribbean luxury. This first-of-its-kind contemporary development will offer 164 elegantly designed residences, all featuring ocean views and private terraces that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.

The resort will allow guests to enter through a dramatic threshold bridge into its breathtaking lobby, complete with a Gallery Living Room and Gourmet Market. With 900 feet of beachfront, a main pool overlooking the ocean, and fully serviced cabanas, relaxation will come effortlessly. Children can enjoy their own pool near Camp Hyatt, ensuring fun for the whole family.

Exclusive ownership benefits will include $2,500 annual resort credit, Hyatt Globalist membership, discounts on dining, spa services, and accommodations, plus VIP priority reservations.

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Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Turks & Caicos

South Caicos will welcome Salterra in February 2025, offering 100 ocean-view rooms and suites with private balconies. With six dining options, a full-service spa, and a kids’ club, it promises to be a sanctuary for relaxation. Nestled on the secluded Salterra Beach, Salterra Resort & Spa will be the newest gem in The Luxury Collection, offering an unparalleled experience in Turks and Caicos. Every room boasts breathtaking ocean views, overlooking the pristine beach, the barrier reef, and the striking Fish Rock. Guests can choose from elegant one- and two-bedroom rooms, spacious suites, or the exclusive penthouse suite.

The resort’s design pays homage to South Caicos’ historic sea salt industry, once the nation’s largest salt producer. The nearby salinas are a haven for vibrant birdlife, including flamingos, egrets, and herons, adding to the area’s natural charm.

Salterra will feature a diverse culinary scene with gourmet dining at Brine, laid-back elegance at Regatta and Cobo Bar & Grill, and casual fare at Flamingo Café. The Spa at Salterra will offer indulgent treatments in a setting inspired by the island’s heritage, complete with vitality pools, saunas, and more. It will be perfect for weddings, retreats, or a serene getaway.

Secrets Resorts Expands to St. Lucia and Aruba

Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa: This adults-only, all-inclusive resort opens in January 2025. Arrive via a scenic drive through St. Lucia’s lush landscapes, where every detail of your stay has been crafted for unparalleled comfort. From romantic rendezvous to unforgettable adventures, Secrets St. Lucia offers the perfect backdrop for pampering, relaxation, and lasting memories. Experience tropical luxury redefined at this idyllic escape. Set amidst 30 acres of lush tropical gardens, the resort features 355 elegant accommodations, each with private balconies and panoramic views of the sea, mountains, or volcanic beaches. Indulge in Unlimited-Luxury with gourmet dining at nine restaurants, six bars, 24-hour room service, and top-shelf drinks. Rejuvenate at the world-class spa, enjoy nearby golf courses, and explore a wide range of activities on land and water.

Secrets Baby Beach Aruba: Opening in March 2025, Secrets Baby Beach Aruba is an adults-only, all-inclusive oasis located on the pristine southern coast of San Nicolas. This luxurious retreat will offer 304 elegantly designed suites, many with breathtaking ocean views, and is perfect for couples seeking romance and relaxation. Enjoy the expansive infinity pool, unlimited gourmet dining, top-shelf spirits, and live entertainment in an idyllic setting of white sands and turquoise waters. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Secrets Spa, designed to pamper and restore. Secrets Baby Beach Aruba promises an unforgettable escape, blending tranquility, luxury, and unparalleled beauty.

The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort, Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort is set to open by late Q1 2025. Guests can enjoy 200 rooms, including suites with swim-out options, a St. Regis Spa and event spaces, all in a prime beachfront location. The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort guests will be able to savor nine exceptional culinary experiences, from gourmet dining at Nina, led by a celebrity chef, to the barefoot charm of Marola Sea Side Bar. Indulge in bespoke treatments at The St. Regis Spa or unwind at The Amber Room cigar bar. Host events in stunning venues like the Poinciana Ballroom. Every moment will reflect the timeless elegance and impeccable service that define the St. Regis brand.

Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton

The coastal town of Miches in the Dominican Republic will debut this 500-room, family-friendly property in February 2025. With a waterpark, six restaurants, a spa, and retail shops, Zemi Miches offers something for everyone. Overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Playa Esmeralda, the all-inclusive oceanfront resort will offer the perfect escape. Located 90 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport, the resort boasts an exclusive beach near Redonda Mountain, 10+ restaurants and bars, four pools, a waterpark, and a full-service spa. Club Azure and bungalow guests enjoy elevated amenities, including rooftop pool access and exclusive dining options.

Stay in Caribbean-inspired rooms, suites, or bungalows with stunning views, some featuring private plunge pools. Savor diverse menus inspired by Caribbean, Thai, and Italian traditions, and sip tropical cocktails at swim-up bars. With 1,000 sq. m. of event space, custom catering, and group activities, the resort is perfect for memorable events.

First Papa John’s For Guyana

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 11, 2024: Restaurant Brands Holdings Inc. (RBH) has secured exclusive franchise rights for Papa John’s in Guyana, Suriname, Curaçao, and Aruba, marking a significant milestone in its mission to introduce globally renowned dining brands to the Caribbean and South America.

Restaurant Brands Holdings Inc. (RBH) is a leading franchise operator in Guyana, focused on introducing globally respected dining brands to the Caribbean and South America. Known for its emphasis on customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and local market insight, RBH aims to enhance the dining experience with high-quality food and outstanding service. Through its expanding portfolio, RBH brings exciting, globally-inspired culinary options tailored to local tastes.

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This move underscores RBH’s dedication to providing high-quality, customer-focused dining experiences tailored to the region’s unique tastes.

As a leading franchise operator in Guyana, RBH has earned a reputation for excellence in the quick-service and fast-casual dining sectors. The addition of Papa John’s strengthens its portfolio and reaffirms its commitment to offering premium options. Papa John’s is globally recognized for its focus on quality, with pizzas crafted from fresh, never frozen dough, mozzarella cheese, vine-ripened tomato sauce, and meat free from fillers, ensuring a superior taste experience.

Enhancing Regional Dining Experiences

RBH’s expansion reflects its strategy to elevate the regional dining landscape by introducing innovative concepts and maintaining high standards of service. This partnership aligns with its vision to expand its presence in Guyana and nearby Caribbean markets, bringing world-class culinary experiences to local communities.

The first Papa John’s restaurant in Guyana is set to open on December 16, 2024, at the corner of Vlissengen Road and Garnett Street. Customers can look forward to a menu featuring Papa John’s signature pizzas made with top-quality ingredients, as well as wings and desserts. The launch promises to deliver the brand’s hallmark freshness, flavor, and outstanding service that have won over pizza lovers worldwide.

Papa John’s is a world-renowned pizza brand celebrated for its commitment to “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.” Since its founding in 1984, the brand has become a leader in the global pizza industry, delivering high-quality pizzas and exceptional service to customers worldwide. With a dedication to innovation and community connection, Papa John’s continues to unite people over its irresistible menu and welcoming dining experience.

American Airlines Halts Haiti Flights Amid Rising Gang Violence

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 11, 2024: American Airlines has announced it will not resume flights to Haiti in February, citing escalating gang violence and instability in the Caribbean nation. The decision underscores ongoing safety concerns that have also led other airlines, including Spirit and JetBlue, to suspend operations in the region.

People walk past a car set on fire by armed gangs in the Poste Marchand area, The Poste Marchand neighborhood is one of the hardest hit areas. Long prey to gang attacks. Following this tragic event, many families fled the area, joining thousands of displaced people seeking refuge in other parts of the capital.

Over the end of the year, more than 20,000 people were forced to flee gang violence in the metropolitan area of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Gang violence has plunged Port-au-Prince into chaos, with residents trapped in bloody clashes. This Tuesday, December 10, 2024 marks a few weeks since the uninterrupted violence, exacerbated since the announcement of the dismissal of Garry Conille as Prime Minister and the appointment of Alix Didier Fils-Aim to replace him. The security situation is deteriorating rapidly, with many neighborhoods under constant threat of gunfire from armed groups. Port-au-prince, Haiti, Tuesday December 10, 2024. (Photo by Guerinault Louis/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“American has made the difficult decision to suspend daily service between Miami (MIA) and Port-au-Prince, Haiti (PAP),” a spokesperson for the airline told FOX Business. “We are proud of our more than 50-year commitment to Haiti and will continue to monitor the situation, assessing safety, security, and customer demand, in evaluating a return of service.” Impacted customers will be contacted and offered full refunds.

Safety Concerns Spark Flight Suspensions

The airline’s decision comes in the wake of increased gang violence, which has affected both civilian safety and commercial operations. Last month, Spirit and JetBlue planes were struck by gunfire amid rising unrest, prompting those airlines to also temporarily cease flights to Haiti.

The U.S. government continues to warn against travel to the country. “The security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince stated. “You should consider your personal security situation before traveling anywhere in Haiti.”

Crisis Deepens Amid Political and Social Unrest

Haiti has faced worsening violence this year, with the United Nations reporting at least 4,500 deaths and over 2,000 injuries in 2024 alone. Since November 11, an estimated 42,000 people have been displaced due to gang-related violence, according to UNICEF.

In one particularly harrowing incident, the National Human Rights Defense Network reported that gang members killed at least 110 elderly individuals in the Cite Soleil slum, alleging witchcraft as the motive. The violence involved machetes and knives, reflecting the brutal nature of the unrest.

Adding to the turmoil, Haiti’s political leadership remains in flux. Businessman Alix Didier Fils-Aimé recently replaced Prime Minister Garry Conille, who was ousted last month.

Hope for Stability

While American Airlines reiterates its long-standing connection to Haiti, it emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety before resuming operations. The carrier will continue evaluating conditions to determine when flights may safely restart.

Voodoo-Linked Massacre Deepens Haiti’s Turmoil

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 10, 2024: Haiti is grappling with one of its most brutal massacres in recent memory after more than 180 people were killed in Cité Soleil, a poverty-stricken area of Port-au-Prince, over the weekend in what is being deemed a “voodoo killing.”

Ronalda Alcime cries after armed gangs executed her husband at Poste Marchands in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on December 9, 2024. Nearly 200 people in Haiti were killed in brutal weekend violence reportedly orchestrated against voodoo practitioners, with the government on Monday condemning a massacre of “unbearable cruelty.” (Photo by CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP via Getty Images)

According to the United Nations and local human rights groups, the killings were driven by claims of Voodoo-related witchcraft and carried out by gang members under orders from a local leader. The National Human Rights Defense Network, (RNDDH), reported that the massacre was orchestrated by Monel Felix, also known as King Micanor, after a priest told him that Voodoo had caused his son’s fatal illness. The killings, which began Friday night in Wharf Jérémie, targeted older Voodoo practitioners, with nearly 130 of the victims aged over 60. The slaughter, described as a personal vendetta, involved machetes and knives, and many bodies were burned or discarded into the sea, according to eyewitnesses and rights organizations.

The violence underscores Haiti’s deepening crisis as rival gangs continue to terrorize communities with impunity. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, called the killings a reflection of the country’s “accelerating spiral into the abyss.” Rights groups noted that the lack of a police presence in gang-controlled areas like Wharf Jérémie delayed the reporting of the atrocity.

Cité Soleil residents described horrific scenes, with entire families killed in their homes. “In some houses, five or six people were murdered,” said one resident, who requested anonymity for fear of retribution. The RNDDH also noted that young people, including motorcycle-taxi drivers trying to help others escape, were among the victims.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé condemned the massacre, calling it a “direct attack on humanity and the republican order.” He pledged that the government would use “every resource” to bring those responsible to justice. However, the government’s capacity to act remains limited, with gangs controlling vast swaths of the capital and other regions.

The violence in Haiti has claimed more than 5,000 lives this year and displaced over 700,000 people, according to the United Nations. Despite the presence of a UN-backed Multinational Security Support Mission, composed largely of Kenyan police officers, gang violence has continued unabated.

International human rights advocates are calling for increased resources and expanded operations for the Kenyan-led mission, including transitioning it into an official UN peacekeeping operation. However, resistance from veto-wielding countries like Russia and China at the UN Security Council has stalled the proposal.

The massacre highlights Haiti’s urgent need for stronger international support to address the escalating gang crisis and safeguard vulnerable communities. As violence surges, calls for global intervention grow louder.

Exploring The Positive Impact Of Gambling On Caribbean Economies

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Dec. 10, 2024: Different people have divergent opinions on gambling, but it may interest you to know that gambling as a form of entertainment and business venture has many positive contributions to the local and regional economies where it is in operation. We will explore this in detail, particularly as it relates to “Sun, Sea, and Sand Economies” in this article. 

The benefits of gambling in Caribbean countries transcend entertainment. It fosters job creation, contributes to tourism which brings infrastructure development, and generates revenue for counties. Let’s begin by understanding what the Caribbean economies entail. 

Understanding the Caribbean Economies

The Caribbean is a subregion bothered by North America, Central America, and South America. It is centered around the Caribbean Sea in the North Atlantic Ocean. It comprises numerous islands, islets, cays, banks, and reefs and has 13 recognized countries. 

The Caribbean economy is largely fueled by its agricultural potential, natural resources, travel, and tourism sectors. The people produce different agricultural products, like sugar cane, as well as a variety of tasteful fish species. 

However, gambling has become very popular in this region, especially due to the new era of digital technology. Many new online gambling platforms, like jackpot city offer a wide variety of exciting games with many bonuses. Many people are now going into gambling, and it is impacting the economies in more positive ways than anyone would have thought possible.

How Does Gambling Positively Impact the Caribbean Economies?

Findings reveal that gambling impacts Caribbean economies in the following ways:

1. Tourism Boost

This is one of the most evident contributions of gambling to the Caribbean, which is already a great tourist destination. Gambling at the numerous casinos and resorts often attracts a lot of people from all over the world, especially those who would never have considered visiting that region. 

In the Caribbean, you will find casino resorts with world-class amenities in places like the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and Aruba. Their outstanding services, combined with the beaches, cultural sites, and natural scenery in these places, contribute to the overall appeal of the region. This creates a luxury tourism market that is one of the largest contributors to the Caribbean’s GDP.

2. Job Creation

The gambling industry requires a significant workforce to run smoothly. Even online casinos still need background staff to keep things going. So, there are many jobs in casinos, resorts, security, hotels, and marketing. The industry provides many employment opportunities for locals in these regions, and it is especially favorable for regions with limited industries. 

Furthermore, the skills people develop in the gaming sector can also be valuable in other industries, so there is long-term career potential as a result of gambling.

3. Government Revenue

Caribbean countries can generate significant revenue from licensing fees and taxes, which come from gambling sites and casinos. This revenue can, in turn, be used to fund Healthcare, local education, and infrastructural projects, which can improve the overall quality of life of the people. 

Many Caribbean countries have regulations to ensure that gambling activities are taxed efficiently and funds are channeled properly.

4. Infrastructure Development

When casinos, resorts, and associated facilities are present, upgrades in infrastructure such as airports, ports, roads, utilities, and general urban development are expected. Revenues from gambling can be invested in infrastructure, and countries will gain investors, both public and private, as a result of the exposure gotten from hosting large-scale gambling events, such as poker tournaments.

5. Diversification of the Economy

It is a well-known fact that Caribbean economies still rely on traditional sectors like agriculture, so gambling has provided an avenue for diversification. This will go a long way toward stabilizing the economies by opening new economic activities, especially during downturns in other volatile sectors. Thus, gambling fosters a resilient and diversified economy where countries can reduce their dependency on a single industry.

6. Online Gaming and Innovation

Most Caribbean countries have also seen outstanding growth in online gaming; Antigua, Curaçao, and Barbuda have become hubs for sports betting services and offshore gaming. This is all possible because of the rise of gambling in these countries, which attracts global investors and operators. It is contributing greatly to the digital economy and related technology industries, it is also providing businesses and entrepreneurs the opportunity to tap into the global online gambling market.

7. Cultural and Social Opportunities

In some areas, gambling has also become part of the culture. At some cultural events, you will find gambling activities like bingo, lotteries, and other forms of traditional betting integrated into social activities. This creates opportunities for local businesses to thrive and enhances social cohesion among the locals. 

This is equally an avenue to promote responsible gambling programs and awareness initiatives to help mitigate any potential negative social impact and ensure people can fully utilize the benefits of betting. 

The Future of Gambling and Economic Growth

Considering the evolution and impact of the gambling industry in the Caribbean so far, it is expected that the industry will continue to thrive, and its influence on the economy will lead to significant growth. Online gambling, in particular, will continue to experience rapid growth and create new opportunities for casinos, and gamblers and in contrast, new challenges for policymakers and regulators. 

But be that as it may, while there is evident economic growth due to gambling, we can’t deny the potential downsides, which include gambling addiction, so it is crucial to continue to explore effective ways to mitigate the possible side effects of gambling. This can consist of the implementation of stronger regulatory frameworks and responsible gambling environments to ensure that economic growth is not at the expense of the well-being of local communities. 

Gambling in the Caribbean has a multifaceted influence on the economy and local communities, it provides a range of positive economic impacts from generating revenue to creating jobs, boosting tourism, and fostering infrastructural development. However, gambling still comes with some risks of problem gambling, social disruption, and crime, so the benefits must be balanced with responsible gambling practices, community support, and regulatory oversight to curb the downsides of gambling and ensure a balance for the long-term economic growth and development of the Caribbean.