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Tragic turn of events in relation to the missing Sorineida Moreno – Arias

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July 13, 2016 – We are deeply saddened by the tragic turn of events in relation to the missing Sorineida Moreno – Arias.

Our hearts go out to her family especially the children  and the entire Dominican community. Another young life has been snuffed out by a heartless coward who played god for a moment and in a cruel and senseless act robbed children of their mother and family and friends of their loved one.  This senseless act highlights a number of pressing national issues and we can ill afford to allow this crime to go unsolved. The Police have stated that they are looking for a blue Nissan March and if there are those of us among us, as I do believe there always is, who know something and do not speak, then you are equally as guilty.  I invite us to not pass judgment and be insensitive in our comments. Victims of crime can and should never be blamed for crimes against them. All lives matter and everyone deserve the right to be safe in all situations. I had prayed for her safe return but am grateful that she has been found so that her family can have closure and give her a proper farewell.

Unfortunately, I must state again how disappointed I am that an image of the deceased has been making its way around on social media. I call on persons to cease such a thing and to respect the victim and her family. It is insensitive and disrespectful to all women, as an act against one must be seen by other women as an act against all.

This issue also highlights the need for a Rapid Response Task Force for missing persons, particularly women and children.  I praise the Dominican community for their efforts and the other nationalities who helped in one or another. The need to preserve crime scenes when applicable is critical and the protection of the body from unauthorised photographs must be of paramount importance, not just for the rights of the victim and their families but to not expose evidence to a receiving public that may include the perpetrator. We must catch up in crime fighting and response. Times and criminals have changed and we must employ new tactics and tools. Whilst we appreciate the limited resources, we can not embrace that reason and must demand that more be done.

Crime though low in comparison to neighboring countries is still at a level that we should never accept. Crime is a serious concern for my Party which is why we have rolled out a 12 point crime plan that is all encompassing. We invite the authorities to look at it and do what is best for our people.

I am personally seriously concerned about the safety of our women and children and earlier this year I raised this concern as it relates to transportation by jitney.  This cry like others has fallen on deaf ears. It was only a few days ago that I submitted a parliamentary question requesting the statistics (inclusive of numbers and types of offenses) relating to crime against women and this question should be answered at the next House Meeting  on July 25, 2016. Last year when we passed laws to increase the rights of women, we saw two heinous crimes against women and I spoke to both in a joint release. We have since heard and seen more incidents that ought to encourage all sisters to speak out and stand together.

To all women and all residents alike, we must not make take our safety for granted and we must be wise in our decisions and take no unnecessary risks.

I encourage us all to speak out from where we stand especially those who have information about this and other crimes . Crime Stoppers at 1800TIPS welcomes tips and you will remain anonymous.

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Caribbean News

Sandals Resorts Rewards Caribbean Medallists with Free Vacations

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~All medalled athletes from islands where Sandals operates, to receive weeklong stays at luxury chain

for their Paris Olympics performances~

 

 

Montego Bay, Jamaica – September 8, 2024 – Sandals Resorts International, in a show of celebration following the extraordinary performance of Caribbean athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, extended complimentary vacations to all medalists from the islands where the resort brand operates.

Jamaican top performers, Rojé Stona, Kishane Thompson, Shanieka Ricketts, Rajindra Campbell, Wayne Pinnock and Rasheed Broadbell will receive week-long stays at any Sandals or Beaches resort in the Caribbean. Saint Lucia’s Olympic champion Julien Alfred, alongside Grenada’s star athletes Lindon Victor and Anderson Peters will also receive complimentary one-week vacations at any Sandals or Beaches resort across the region.

“The Olympic Games are always a special time for us here in the Caribbean. Our athletes are incredibly talented and we are thrilled to witness their wins and record-making performances. On behalf of our entire Sandals family, we excitedly celebrate with our Olympic medallists and we look forward to hosting them for a relaxing vacation at Sandals,” shared Executive Chairman for Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart.

This latest show of support for Caribbean athletes has become a hallmark of Sandals Resorts as they made a similar offering to athletes at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The resort chain has also been a major sponsor of regional sports such as the West Indies Cricket team and multiple motorsport athletes among many others.

 

Captions:

Rojé Stona: Jamaican track and field athlete Rojé Stona broke the Olympic record to win the gold medal in the men’s discus throw at the 2024 Summer Olympics. Stona is the first Jamaican to win Olympic gold at a throwing event.

Shanieka Ricketts: Jamaican athlete Shanieka Ricketts copped silver in the women’s triple jump at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Julien Alfred: Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred celebrates her historic performance after copping gold in the women’s 100m at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Alfred also won silver in the women’s 200m competition.

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Caribbean News

Registration Now Open for Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum 2024

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The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has opened registration for the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF 2024). This premier event is set to take place November 18-20, 2024, at the Kovens Conference Center in North Miami.

Under the theme “Keeping it Real – Amplifying Caribbean Tourism through Authenticity, Integration and Immersion”, CHIEF 2024 promises to deliver cutting-edge insights and networking opportunities for hospitality professionals across the region.

Patricia Affonso-Dass, Chair of the CHIEF 2024 Planning Committee, explained that “CHIEF 2024 is more than just a conference; it’s a call to action for the Caribbean hospitality industry.”

“Under our comprehensive theme, we’re focusing on what truly sets our region apart: our authenticity, our people, and our commitment to sustainable tourism. This forum will equip attendees with the knowledge and connections to not just navigate the future but to shape it,” she stated.

CHIEF 2024 will cover a range of critical topics, including:

  • Marketing the Authentic Caribbean Experience: Delegates will discover strategies to showcase the Caribbean’s unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local experiences. This includes promoting local cuisine, artisans, eco-tourism and community-based experiences.
  • Embracing Technology and Innovation: Attendees will explore the latest technological advancements reshaping the hospitality industry. They will learn how AI can improve their offerings to visitors and optimize operations and marketing.
  • Boosting Revenue with Proven Strategies: Participants will gain insights into tactics to increase profitability in the competitive Caribbean tourism market. Sessions will feature case studies and discussions of dynamic pricing models and upselling techniques.
  • Prioritizing Staff and Guest Well-Being: Delegates will delve into the growing importance of well-being for employees and guests in the hospitality industry. Strategies will be shared to enhance staff satisfaction and retention, integrate wellness programs and create environments that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

The forum will also feature the return of the popular CHIEF Speed Networking Session, allowing attendees to forge valuable connections in the industry. The full schedule of events is available at https://chtachief.com/schedule-of-events. Members and non-members are invited to register early to take advantage of the Early Bird rate at https://chtachief.com/registration/.

As the Caribbean’s top networking conference, CHIEF provides an unmatched platform for industry leaders to connect and collaborate. With expert-led sessions, an Exchange Hub for showcasing the latest innovations, and the prestigious CHIEF Awards, the event is essential for staying ahead in the hospitality sector.

For more details about CHIEF 2024, including sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, visit chtachief.com.

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Bahamas News

CIBC Caribbean Donates Computers Across the Country

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CIBC Caribbean’s Branch Support Services Manager, Sammy Gardiner (R), presents computers to National Library and Information Services representative and librarian, Winifred Murphy (L)

Nassau, Bahamas, September 12, 2024 Digital resources have become an integral part of day-to-day business activities and the education experience. As another school year begins and library traffic heightens, students and patrons across the country will have more devices at their fingertips.

CIBC Caribbean recently donated a substantial number of computers to public libraries and Yellow Elder Primary School. The computers donated to the National Library and Information Services will be distributed to libraries in New Providence, Abaco, and Grand Bahama.

Jacqui Bend, CIBC Caribbean’s Managing Director said, “At CIBC Caribbean, we are deeply committed to advancing technology both within our organization and in the communities we serve. By donating these computers to libraries and schools across The Bahamas, we’re helping to ensure that everyone has the digital tools they need to thrive in today’s world, just as we continually innovate to better serve our clients.”

Dorcas Bowler, Director of Libraries, emphasized the importance of CIBC Caribbean’s donation.

She said, “In today’s technological world, a library does not only house books but is also an information hub and a treasure trove to access information at the click of a mouse on computer terminals, tablets, and other electronic devices via the Internet and WIFI. Patrons, including adults and children, need up-to-date information for success in school and everyday living.

“This donation from CIBC Caribbean aligns perfectly with our mission to provide ready access to quality resources and services for all persons throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. It supports our vision of an accessible library system equipped to meet the demands of the 21st century.”

Bowler further highlighted the critical role libraries play in fostering lifelong learning and providing equitable access to information. “Libraries build strong communities and change lives,” she said.

“This generous donation from CIBC will significantly enhance our ability to offer modern technological resources to all, particularly in remote and underserved communities.”

Yellow Elder Primary School will utilize the computers to enhance its educational offerings. The school’s acting principal, Tamica Adderley, expressed profound gratitude, stating, “Computers play a pivotal role in modern education, revolutionizing the learning experience for both educators and students.”

Adderley said, “At Yellow Elder Primary School, these computers will enable our students to engage with adaptive learning platforms such as Renaissance Star 360, which tailors educational content to individual learning needs. This not only fosters a dynamic and participatory learning environment but also ensures that our students are equipped with the vital digital literacy skills necessary for future success.”

She added, “On behalf of Yellow Elder Primary School Family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to CIBC Caribbean for its generous donation. CIBC Caribbean’s commitment to education and technology will have a lasting impact on the learning experiences of our students. With CIBC’s support, we can create a technologically enriched environment that empowers our students to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Thank you for being a valuable partner in shaping the future of our community.”

 

Photo Caption:

Libraries across the country and Yellow Elder Primary School received computers from CIBC Caribbean to support the evolving needs of day-to-day business activities and the education experience

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