Caribbean Billionaire Rihanna Supports A$AP At First Show

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 21, 2024: Caribbean born billionaire, Rihanna, showed up for beau A$AP Rocky as her partner and daddy to her two children, launched his first American Sabotage by AWGE menswear spring 2025 show in Paris.

RiRi redefined street style during Paris Fashion Week on Friday to proudly support her partner of nearly four years.

US rapper and designer ASAP Rocky (L) and his wife Barbadian singer Rihanna (C) pose at the end of the American Sabotage AWGE Spring/Summer 2025 menswear ready to wear collection show as part of Paris Fashion Week in Paris, on June 21, 2024. (Photo by GEOFFROY VAN DER HASSELT/AFP via Getty Images)

Rihanna’s ensemble for the event epitomized a blend of street style and high fashion. She sported a merlot-hued cropped puffer jacket with feather lining on the interior. Underneath, she wore a white tank top style dress accented with garter elements off the hemline. Her look featured additional layered elements, including an army green garment and a gray and red fabric piece beneath the cropped jacket.

Rihanna was seated in the front row, documenting the models as they showcased pieces from A$AP Rocky’s latest collection, American Sabotage. This event, which marked A$AP Rocky’s debut runway show, also served as an announcement for his new album, “Don’t Be Dumb,” now available for pre-order. The show was held at Karl Lagerfeld’s former home in Paris and attracted notable attendees such as Pusha T, JW Anderson, and Alexandre Arnault, who was seated beside Rihanna.

This Haitian Immigrant Will Represent Her Country At The Olympics

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. June 21, 2024: Haitians have something positive to cheer about in the midst of all the bad news that features daily globally on the crime and gang violence in the Caribbean country.

Lynnzee Brown of Haiti performs her floor routine during Women’s Qualification at the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships-Antwerp 2023 at the Antwerp Sportpaleis on October 2nd, 2023 in Antwerp, Belgium. She is now heading to Paris 2024. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

Penn State women’s gymnastics assistant coach and Haitian immigrant Lynnzee Brown earned a universality place qualification from the Olympic Games Tripartite Commission and will represent Haiti in women’s artistic gymnastics competition at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Brown will compete in her very first Olympics this summer in Paris following her previous outings on the global stage at the 2023 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Antwerp this past September, as well as multiple Pan American competitions within the last year. When she steps foot in the gym in Paris, she will become the first Haitian gymnast ever to compete in the Olympic Games. She will begin competition in the women’s qualification round, slated to begin July 28.

“I’m trying to think of what to say but I honestly have nothing that feels good enough,” Brown said. “I’m grateful for this journey and those that have supported me through it. I am honored that the Haitian federation is supporting me through this process, and I look forward to seeing what the next generation of athletes will do.”

The former Denver standout gymnast joined Penn State’s coaching staff in the summer of 2023 following an incredible career as a Pioneer. She was a ten-time WCGA Postseason All-American, a co-National Champion, and a two-time AAI Award finalist during her collegiate career. In her first season with the Nittany Lions, Brown and her fellow Penn State assistant coaches were named the WCGA North East Region Assistant Coaches of the Year following Penn State’s phenomenal 2024 campaign.

“We are so excited for Lynnzee,” said head coach Sarah Brown. “Making the Olympics was one of the first goals Lynnzee and I talked about when we connected last year, and I couldn’t be more proud of the work she has put in to turn her dream into reality. Being named the first Haitian gymnast to ever compete in the Olympics is a tremendous accomplishment, and we look forward to watching her compete for her country in Paris!”

Caribbean Roots Blac Chyna Defends Herself Against Custody Claims

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 21, 2024: Caribbean roots star, Blac Chyna, has responded to Rob Kardashian’s claim that he has sole custody of their daughter, Dream. The 33-year-old entrepreneur, who shares a nine-year-old son, King Cairo, with Tyga and five-year-old daughter, Dream, with Kardashian, faced criticism from both fathers last week. They challenged her complaints about not receiving child support and claimed to have primary custody of the children.

Caribbean roots star Blac Chyna attended the Ladylike Women Of Excellence Awards x Fashion Show at The Beverly Hilton on June 01, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Ladylike Women of Excellence Awards)

However, Neighborhood Talk clarified the custody agreement between Rob and Chyna. According to the agreement, Dream is with her mother from Saturday to Wednesday, with alternating weeks. The outlet shared this information on Instagram, urging people to stop criticizing Blac Chyna. They wrote, “So y’all need to get off Blac Chyna back. Rob should feel bad for creating that narrative to be honest.” Chyna commented on the post, affirming, “Facts [prayer emoji] (sic).”

The situation escalated after Tyga and Rob reacted to Blac Chyna’s social media post about having to give up several of her cars due to financial difficulties. She lamented her struggles as a single mother, stating, “Yesterday I had to give up 3 of my cars …my reasons… morals, beliefs, being a single mother, no support. I’m a MAMA. Single no support child support.”

Tyga quickly responded, explaining why he doesn’t pay child support. He commented on a screenshot of Chyna’s tweets, saying, “I pay 40k a year for my son school he lives w me mon-sat. Why would I pay child support lol.(sic).” Rob echoed this sentiment, stating, “I pay 37k a year for my daughter’s school. Handle every single medical expense. I pay for all her extracurricular activities. I have my daughter from Tuesday-Saturday. Why would I pay child support lol.”

In a humorous exchange, Tyga noted the difference in their payments and tagged Rob, asking, “how u pay 3k less. Let me kno the plug.(sic).” Despite the financial challenges, Blac Chyna continues to defend her role as a dedicated mother, maintaining her commitment to raising her children while managing her career.

Jamaican Launches Vodka Made From Yam

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 20, 2024: A Jamaican national has come up with a unique vodka, set to take the market by storm later this month.

Wait a Bit Vodka, a premium small-batch vodka crafted in Jamaica, has entered the market with a unique twist according to the Jamaica Observer. Made from select yellow yams grown by small farmers in the mountainside town of Wait a Bit, Trelawny, this vodka boasts a blend of local spring water from the Cockpit Country. Gluten-free and exceptionally fresh, Wait a Bit Vodka promises a high-quality spirit while supporting local farming initiatives.

Principal Lincoln Nicholson of Wait a Bit vodka.

Wait a Bit Distillers was founded by principal Lincoln Nicholson with a vision to produce premium quality spirits infused with authentic Jamaican flavors. The goal is to showcase these unique flavors to the world, starting with their flagship product, Wait a Bit Vodka. The ingredients for Wait a Bit Vodka are locally sourced, primarily within a 10-mile radius of the distillery in Trelawny. This proximity ensures freshness and supports the local farming community.

Wait a Bit Vodka is set to hit the market in late June 2024. It will be available at select retailers, offering consumers a taste of Jamaica’s finest small-batch vodka. True to its artisanal nature, Wait a Bit Vodka is crafted in small batches, with every aspect, including the packaging, done by hand. This attention to detail highlights the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

The distillery’s first major breakthrough came after a tasting session with a well-known spirits company, which praised the high quality of the vodka. This endorsement has been a significant boost for the brand. The response to Wait a Bit Vodka has been overwhelmingly positive. Consumers appreciate the fresh taste and the use of locally sourced ingredients, which support small farmers in Jamaica.

Wait a Bit Distillers aims to grow its brand internationally, making Wait a Bit Vodka known for its exceptional quality and unique Jamaican yellow yam base. The journey has not been without challenges, especially with engineering works and operating in rural Jamaica. However, the company has embraced these hurdles, embodying the spirit of patience reflected in its name, Wait a Bit.

Jamaicans are encouraged to support Wait a Bit Vodka, a product made from locally grown yellow yams by hardworking farmers. The brand’s focus on quality and its roots in the local community make it a premium choice in the market.

Guyanese Footballer Appointed Manager Of Oxford City Club

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 20, 2024: Guyanese Sam Cox, an international footballer who appeared in the hit TV show “Ted Lasso,” has been appointed as the new manager of the UK–based Oxford City club.

Guyanese Sam Cox is now the new manager of Oxford City club, UK. (Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Cox, who continues to play for Guyana, will lead the club in the National League North following their relegation from the National League last season.

The 33-year-old joins Oxford City after serving as interim manager at Wealdstone, where he helped the club secure their position in the National League. Cox also portrayed Armando, a fictional West Ham United player, in the third season of the popular Apple TV show about an American football coach managing a Premier League team.

Cox described his experience on “Ted Lasso” as “fantastic,” expressing his amazement at being part of a global TV series. Throughout his senior football career, he has made nearly 350 appearances, including 32 international caps as the captain of Guyana. He notably led his country to their first-ever major tournament, the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup.

When asked about his plans for Oxford City, Cox promised a positive and attractive style of play, aiming to win matches and elevate the club. He stated, “I know where I feel I can get this football club, and I’m going to do my very best to do that.”

Cox remains in touch with some of the cast and crew from “Ted Lasso” and hinted that they might visit Oxford City in the future.

Jamaican NFL Star Laken Tomlinson Joins Seattle Seahawks

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 20, 2024: Jamaican Laken Tomlinson, renowned for his incredible durability, has joined the Seattle Seahawks team on a one-year contract. The 32-year-old, who has played in 120 consecutive games since 2017, including for the New York Jets, brings a wealth of experience and reliability to the Seahawks.

Jamaican Laken Tomlinson, formerly #78 of the New York Jets, has signed with the Seattle Seahakws. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

Tomlinson attributes his longevity in the NFL to a combination of good luck and hard work. “I’ve been extremely lucky to play this long with good health. But I also put a lot of work into it as well. My body is my job, so I’ve been blessed, but I also work really hard,” Tomlinson said during the Seahawks minicamp.

Over his nine-year career, Tomlinson has made 138 starts and logged more than 9,000 snaps at left guard, playing for the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and New York Jets. He is set to replace Damien Lewis as Seattle’s starting left guard.

Tomlinson, who takes great pride in his Jamaican heritage, was born on the island and spent his early years there before moving to the United States. Reflecting on his upbringing, Tomlinson told Seattle Sports: “We didn’t have a lot, but I had a lot of fun growing up with my siblings and cousins. Jamaica has a rich culture, and I love it.”

His journey to the NFL began in Chicago, where his family settled when he was 11. Encouraged by his uncle to try football, Tomlinson quickly adapted to the sport, which eventually led to a successful career.

Beyond football, Tomlinson has aspirations in the medical field. He holds degrees in evolutionary anthropology and psychology from Duke University and plans to attend medical school after his playing career. Inspired by his grandfather’s death due to a lack of medical care in Jamaica, Tomlinson dreams of building a hospital in his native country.

Tomlinson’s addition to the Seahawks comes at a crucial time, as the team looks to bolster its offensive line, which struggled with injuries last season. Head coach Mike Macdonald praised the signing, stating, “He brings a veteran presence to our offensive line, some poise, and a wealth of experience. We’re very excited to have Laken on our O-line.”

Multi-Billion Dollar Development For Puerto Rico

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 20, 2024: Get ready for a multi-billion dollar development in the Caribbean.

Reuben Brothers and Three Rules Capital have unveiled a master plan for a $2 billion development in Puerto Rico featuring its own private airport and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

This multi-billion project is coming to Puerto Rico.

Named Esencia, this project on the island’s west coast will include luxury hotel rooms and branded residences. According to a statement, the development will be anchored by esteemed hotel operators such as Aman Group, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, with JPMorgan Chase & Co. as the lead financier.

“Puerto Rico, especially its west coast, is a beautiful and vibrant place with immense growth potential,” stated Jamie Reuben, a principal at Reuben Brothers. “We saw an opportunity for a transformative investment that will create thousands of jobs.”

Spanning over 2,000 acres (809 hectares), Esencia will feature two golf courses, an equestrian center, and a bilingual K-12 school. The plan will be executed in five phases, with the first phase expected to be completed three years after construction begins.

Billionaires Simon and David Reuben’s real estate investment company, which owns properties worldwide, including Los Angeles’ Century Plaza and London’s Admiralty Arch, is behind this venture. Their combined net worth is approximately $15.6 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

The Esencia project will preserve open spaces for recreation and conservation, limiting structures to 23% or less of the land.

Puerto Rico has become a hotspot for wealthy mainlanders, including traders, financiers, and crypto investors, due to its lucrative tax breaks. The US territory, home to 3.2 million people, began offering these tax incentives in 2012 to stimulate economic growth. Qualifying individuals pay no taxes on dividends, interest, and capital gains, attracting over 6,000 residents under the “resident individual investor” program.

Exclusive enclaves like Dorado Beach, where notable figures such as hedge fund billionaire John Paulson and YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul reside, have emerged. A penthouse in this community recently listed for $49 million.

“The growing and resilient customer base has led to demand outstripping supply in the luxury residential and resort market,” said Will Bennett, co-founder of Three Rules Capital. “This is particularly true in Puerto Rico, where the local government’s efforts have successfully promoted tourism growth.”

McBee Is Almost Here As Producer Announces Free Student Tickets

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 20, 2024: The first American presentation of Alwin Bully’s Caribbean drama “McBee” is almost here. “McBee” will be presented as a one-night-only staged reading at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) at 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, New York, 11432 on Sunday, June 23, at 7 p.m., with a complimentary Caribbean Cuisine Reception in collaboration with Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant starting at 5:30 p.m. The event honors the late Dominican-born writer, Bully, and is part of this year’s Caribbean American Heritage Month festivities in New York City.

Set on an unnamed Caribbean island, “McBee” tells the story of political power couple Allan and Alice McBee. After Allan receives a prophecy from three Rastafarians that he is destined to become Prime Minister, they plot to fulfill the prophecy with explosive consequences.

The cast features Luke Forbes (Amazon Prime’s “Harlem”) as McBee and Denise Hunt (“How Stella Got Her Groove Back”) as Alice, alongside Yinka Adey, Jerry Benzwick, Lincoln Brown, Dianne Dixon, Emilio Evans, Gerard Joseph, Miranda Melhado, Mitzie Pratt, and James Duke Walker. Janel C. Scarborough serves as Consulting Producer.

Broadway World Award winner, Jamaican David Heron, producer and director of the American premiere of the play, anticipates “an evening to remember” and a fitting tribute to Alwin Bully. “Our VIP balcony tickets sold out several days ago, so we look forward to hosting a large and enthusiastic audience, including some of New York’s best and brightest future entertainment professionals, for what is sure to be a very special occasion,” he said.

Heron has also announced a Free Student Ticket Initiative. This program will allow high school and college students from across New York City to attend the event at no cost. Students or their teachers and principals can request tickets by contacting Sure Thing Productions. Preference will be given to students pursuing or planning to pursue careers in theater, film, television, or the performing arts. Tickets will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and student ID may be required.

Patricia ‘Miss Pat’ Chin, VP Records co-founder, and Anita Bully, widow of playwright Alwin Bully, will be guests of honor. Miss Pat will sell and sign copies of her book, “Miss Pat – My Reggae Music Journey,” and offer free memorabilia giveaways courtesy of her V and P Foundation.

Kendel Instant Ginger Teas, a main sponsor, will provide free tea sampling during the pre-show Caribbean Cuisine reception. Additional sponsors include The True Tribute Organization, IMC Media, and Results Promo and Marketing.

For more information about the production and the Free Student Ticket Initiative, visit mcbeetheplay.eventbrite.com or call 646-533-7021.

Caribbean Immigrant Advocate Named Head Of NYC Mayor’s Office Of Nonprofit Services

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 17, 2024: New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced the appointment of a Caribbean-born advocate, Johnny Celestin, as the executive director of the New York City Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services. The appointment comes during National Caribbean American Heritage Month in the U.S.

Haitian American Johnny Celestin is now Executive Director Of the NYC Mayor’s Office Of Nonprofit Services

In his new role, the Haitian immigrant will lead efforts to engage and communicate with nonprofits, develop capacity-building programs to facilitate easier contracting with the city, and advance the recommendations of the Joint Task Force to Get Nonprofits Paid on Time.

“For nearly three decades, Johnny Celestin has led by example, advocating across multiple nonprofits to uplift those who need a helping hand, ensuring our social safety net catches New Yorkers most in need, and providing relief to those in his home country of Haiti,” said Mayor Adams. “In this new role, Johnny will use his expertise to help nonprofits continue to deliver compassion and care to New Yorkers across the five boroughs. Together, with government and nonprofits working together, we can work to build a better, stronger city.”

Celestin expressed his gratitude and commitment to the role, stating: “The nonprofit sector is critical for our city, providing essential services and enriching our communities. My experience fostering opportunity and advocating for equity at the New York City Mayor’s Office of Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses has prepared me for this exciting new challenge. Together, we can ensure the office fulfills its multifaceted mission head-on, including streamlining funding access for nonprofits, promoting equity, and maximizing community impact.”

Celestin brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience across various sectors, including his previous role at the New York City Mayor’s Office of Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. He has also worked with organizations such as the Robin Hood Foundation, Atlantic Philanthropies, and the Clinton Foundation. Celestin is currently a faculty member at the Studley Graduate Program in International Affairs. He was recently the executive director of the Future Leaders Foundation (FLF) and the Centre Haïtien du Leadership et de l’Excellence (CLE), a Haitian foundation focused on identifying, shaping, and connecting Haitian leaders to build a stronger and more equitable Haiti.

Before joining CLE, Celestin served as the deputy chief of staff for Haiti’s Minister of Planning, overseeing various special projects. He brings extensive leadership and international experience in administration, program management, change management, governance, leadership development, and community development. His diverse career includes roles at Accenture LLP, The Robin Hood Foundation, and The Clinton Foundation.

Celestin is also an entrepreneur, having founded several businesses and organizations, including The Black Pearl Café and 420Lenox LLC in Harlem, the Haiti Innovation Fund at Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, the Center for Innovation and Management in Haiti, and Black Pearl Innovation S.A. in Haiti.

He holds a master’s degree in International Affairs from The New School University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Iona College. Celestin has also earned various certifications in Organizational Performance from Accenture, Leadership and Teamwork from MIT, New Communities Movement (Saemaul Undong) from Yeungnam University, and Community Development from Coady International Institute.

Celestin is a change maker, bridge builder, and engaged citizen passionate about social change and social justice. He serves on numerous boards, including CLE, SOIL (Sustainable Organic Integrated Livelihoods), and the advisory board for New School University’s Graduate Program of International Affairs (GPIA). He co-hosts Le Mo-Jo show, a weekly live show aiming to inform and engage the Haitian diaspora community.

Johnny Celestin is married to Leila and is the proud father of Jenna Emily.

Mayor Adams’ administration has made significant investments to support the city’s nonprofit sector, including a $741 million investment for human services workers employed by nonprofit organizations. The administration’s initiatives have unlocked over $6 billion for nonprofits and reformed discretionary contract processes to ensure timely payments.

With this appointment, Celestin is set to lead the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services into a new era of collaboration and impact, supporting New York City’s nonprofits in their vital work for the community.

Caribbean Grammy Winning Star To Headline Jersey City Fourth of July Celebration

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 18, 2024: Grammy Award winner, Caribbean born singer Wyclef Jean will headline this year’s Fourth of July celebration at Jersey City’s Exchange Place, promising a spectacular and unique holiday experience.

Caribbean born singer Wyclef Jean, seen here playing at the “Sounds of Little Haiti” concert at the Haitian Cultural Complex in 2017 in Miami, Florida, will perform at the 2024 Jersey City Fourth of July celebration. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

The free event kicks off at noon, showcasing performances by local talent throughout the day. The musical lineup features DJ Funk Flex at 6 p.m., followed by rapper Fat Joe at 7 p.m. The main event will see the Haitian immigrant taking the stage at 8 p.m., delivering his renowned energy and hits to the waterfront audience.

The celebration will culminate in a breathtaking fireworks display by the Grucci family, starting at 9:25 p.m. over the Hudson River. Fireworks will be launched from two barges in the river, offering a wide viewing area along the waterfront. Spectators can enjoy the show from the Hudson River Walkway, stretching from Grundy Pier to the Colgate Clock.

In addition to concerts and fireworks, the day-long event will feature food vendors, family activities, and more, hosted by Jersey City Night Market along the Hudson River waterfront. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of entertainment and dining options.

For more information on the event, including transportation, directions, and what to bring, visit the city’s website at July4thNJ.com.

Past Fourth of July concerts in Jersey City have featured headliners such as Snoop Dogg, Pitbull, and Flo Rida. This year’s celebration with Wyclef Jean promises to continue the tradition of star-studded performances and community fun.