Rep. Wasserman Schultz Addresses Women’s Event at Caribbean Museum as Jamaican Heritage Candidate Kamala Harris Sets Sights on Presidency

Photo by David I. Muir — Kerra Denel, Attorney Debbie Dickinson, Attorney Shari N. Warner, Dr.Teshamae Monteith | Photo: David I. Muir (Island Syndicate)

Island SPACE Caribbean Museum Honors Exceptionally Regal Sisters at HERS 2024.

Plantation, FL: On a balmy July afternoon in South Florida, more than 200 women walked into Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, welcomed by the sweet sounds of steel pan music. From noon to 5:00pm at the second annual HERS event, “Honoring Exceptionally Regal Sisters,” attendees enjoyed light Caribbean bites, welcome drinks, ethnic fashions from the casual to the exotic, and a stellar comedy set. A series of workshops tackled topics including vaginal health and other self-care methods and practices, as well as business related topics like personal branding. Brilliant panelists as well as 14 artisan vendors offering accessories, plants, makeup and hair care products, unique clothing and more, engaged a sisterhood of women spanning Caribbean cultures.

Rep. Wasserman Schultz Addresses Women’s Event at Caribbean Museum as Jamaican Heritage Candidate Kamala Harris Sets Sights on Presidency — *A model from Badgyal Brukin’s Collection during the HERS fashion show segment. | Photo: David I. Muir (Island Syndicate)*

Though this was the event’s second staging, it was the first time that regal sisters were singled out and recognized for HERS awards. Nominees included Attorney Debbie Dickinson, Dr. Teshamae Monteith, mental health counselor Shari N. Warner, and entertainment consultant and non-profit founder Kerra Denel, who became the ultimate winner.

That Sunday, July 21, Americans collectively caught their breath as the announcement that Joe Biden would step down as the Democratic presidential nominee ricocheted through social and traditional media. US Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz had just arrived to make a scheduled appearance at the HERS event, presenting congressional recognition certificates to the four nominees being celebrated.

Of course, she took the opportunity to acknowledge the historic moment all these women were standing in: Just before Wasserman Schultz took to the stage, it was announced that President Biden was throwing his support behind his vice president, Kamala Harris, a Black and Asian woman of Jamaican parentage who was the first woman vice president and who would be only the second woman to clinch a major party’s presidential nomination, if her bid was successful.

Many of the attendees were from the island of Jamaica, where Harris spent childhood summers with her paternal grandmother. Wasserman Schultz said to the roomful of women, “The sisterhood in this room came together intentionally to honor women that have been toiling in the wilderness and who have been able to be successful in their small businesses or their nonprofit organizations or in the education world or in the cultural world. We have come so far as women in the United States of America. We just passed the 100th anniversary of our having the right to vote. And this is our moment, ladies. We need to channel that energy into action.”

The moment was powerful, though it did not eclipse the celebration being held around it.

Event coordinator Camille Edwards, a former Island SPACE board member, proudly confirmed that the event could not have come together without the collaboration of her exceptional team of volunteers, and sister organization the Jamaican Women of Florida.

Learn more about HERS and other Island SPACE events at https://islandspacefl.org.

Island SPACE Caribbean Museum is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the State of Florida Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, the Broward County Cultural Division, “King” George Jograj, Dr. Lydia Malcom of Authentic Behavioral Health LLC, and her husband, Mr. Waynewright Malcolm, and the following funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Judith Cornfeld Fund for the Arts, Helen and Frank Stoykov Charitable Endowment Fund, The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund and Samuel F. Morrison Community Impact Fund.

About Island SPACE

Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education (Island SPACE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of arts, culture, history, and educational initiatives that represent the Caribbean region, in South Florida and the broader diaspora. The public is invited to visit the Caribbean museum Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. General museum entry is $10 per adult and $5 per child. Contact [email protected] or call 954-999-0989, or visit islandspacefl.org to learn more.

Meet Four Trailblazing Caribbean Women Making Waves in STEM

By

-

July 22, 2024

island-origins-trailblazing-caribbean-women-in-STEM-dr. camille wardrop alleynespace — Photo via inewsguyana.com

Whether through groundbreaking research, innovative engineering or impactful public health initiatives, the Caribbean has produced remarkable women who have made significant contributions to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). These trailblazers have demonstrated that dedication, passion and innovation can lead to significant contributions to global knowledge and society.

Their achievements not only highlight their personal successes, but also pave the way for future generations of women in STEM, inspiring young minds to dream big and pursue their passions despite it being a male-dominated field.

Dr. Camille Wardrop Alleyne

4 Trailblazing Caribbean Women in STEM — *Photo via camillewalleyne.com*

Dr. Camille Wardrop Alleyne is an aerospace engineer and space scientist from Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. She has an impressive roster of degrees, including a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Dr. Alleyne is now an esteemed member of NASA, where she currently serves as the Associate Program Scientist for the International Space Station at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. She has worked on various missions and programs, including the Orion Project and the Constellation Program, as well as played a significant role in NASA’s international partnerships and collaborations in human space exploration.

Outside of her current role, Dr. Alleyne is a STEM advocate, particularly for women. She is the founder of the Brightest Stars Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and inspiring young women to pursue careers in STEM.

Dr. Deborah Persaud

Born in Guyana and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Deborah Persaud is a renowned virologist and pediatric infectious disease specialist. She earned her medical degree from New York University and completed her residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center.

Dr. Persaud is celebrated for her groundbreaking research in pediatric HIV. She was a lead investigator in the “Mississippi baby” case, which marked the first documented instance of HIV remission in a child. Since, she has received numerous awards, including the Elizabeth Glaser Scientist Award for her contributions to HIV research and in 2013 she was recognized by Time magazine as among the “100 Most Influential People” of that year.

Dr. Persaud is a professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where she continues her pioneering work in HIV/AIDS drug development and mother-to-child HIV transmission as the Director of Pediatric Infectious Diseases.

Dr. Bernadette Theodore-Gandi

Hailing from Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Bernadette Theodore-Gandi is a medical doctor and public health expert. She holds degrees from the University of the West Indies and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

Dr. Theodore-Gandi has held various leadership roles in public health, including with the World Health Organization (WHO), where she worked on health policy and program implementation in the Caribbean and Latin America. She has also been instrumental in developing and implementing strategies to combat non-communicable diseases in the region, as well as acting as a strong advocate for health education and the empowerment of women in health sciences.

In 2018 she held a Caribbean Health Forum Leadership in partnership with The Commonwealth Fund Fellowship in Minority Health Policy at Harvard University Leadership Forums on “Perspectives on Caribbean Health.” She is also a published author in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization on the title “Health Conditions in the Caribbean: Pan American Health Organization Scientific Publication No. 561” which examines the significant changes in the health landscape of the Caribbean from 1989-1992, highlighting the impact of social inequities and poverty.

Dr. Maya Trotz

Dr. Maya Trotz is a Guyanese environmental engineer with a focus on sustainable development. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Stanford University and is now a professor at the University of South Florida, where she conducts research on water quality, sustainability and environmental health.

Throughout her career, Dr. Trotz has worked extensively on projects that engage communities in sustainable practices, particularly in the Caribbean. With a background in chemical and environmental engineering from MIT and Stanford, she has served on the governing council of the Caribbean Science Foundation and spent a sabbatical year with them as a visiting research scientist. Dr. Trotz also holds a patent for functional composites and received numerous awards, including the 2014 AEESP Award for Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Engineering and Science Education.

Nurturing the Soul with These Summer Wellness Retreats in the Caribbean

By

-

July 22, 2024

island-origins-caribbean-sumnmer-wellness-retreats-resorts — Photos via @naturacabana, @comoparrotcay and @thebodyholiday

From secluded yoga retreats to luxurious spa escapes, the Caribbean offers a plethora of wellness retreats that beckon travelers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. Treat yourself to a summer of wellness at some of the top retreats in the Caribbean, where yoga, meditation and spa therapies converge.

The BodyHoliday, St. Lucia

4 Relaxing Caribbean Summer Wellness Retreats to Nurture the Soul — Via @thebodyholiday on Instagram

Since 1988, BodyHoliday in Saint Lucia has offered guests a unique, authentic and inspiring beach holiday focused on wellness and rejuvenation. Nestled on the shores of St. Lucia, the top-rated retreat aims to change lives through a 360-degree approach to optimal health and well-being. Lush tropical gardens overlook the sparkling Caribbean Sea at this all-inclusive resort that provides guests with a diverse array of wellness activities, including daily yoga and meditation classes, fitness sessions and personalized spa treatments.

Whether you’re seeking to unwind with a relaxing massage, connect to nature with a sunrise yoga session, or embark on a guided hike through the island’s verdant rainforest, The BodyHoliday is true to its name as the perfect setting to nourish your body, mind and soul.

COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands

Located on a private island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago, COMO Parrot Cay is a luxurious 5-star wellness retreat that attracts guests from all around the world for its world-class spa facilities. Surrounded by white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, this exclusive resort offers a range of holistic wellness programs designed to promote relaxation and inner harmony. Guests can enjoy nine treatment rooms, a spa infinity-edge pool, private yoga pavilion, Pilates studio, steam rooms, sauna, outdoor Jacuzzis, a gym with Asian-inspired holistic therapies developed by COMO Shambhala and nutritious, locally sourced cuisine that nourishes the body from the inside out. For those looking for more ocean-related activities, paddle boarding, kayaking through the nearby mangroves, and diving are also available.

Kamalame Cay, Bahamas

Tucked away on a private island off The Florida Keys Reef Tract, the world’s third largest barrier reef in the Bahamas, Kamalame Cay is a secluded retreat that offers a sanctuary for those seeking peace. This boutique resort offers secluded bungalows, cottages, and villas amid lush jungle and white sand beaches. Guests can look forward to restful, yet exciting activities like daily yoga, guided nature walks, diving and snorkeling off the reef, kayaking, lounging by the freshwater pool and pampering treatments at the Bahamas’ only overwater spa.

Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa, Dominican Republic

During a vacation in 1997, a young Chilean couple and their four daughters fell in love with Cabarete, Dominican Republic and, despite initial skepticism, purchased beachfront land, transforming it into Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa, an ecological paradise that reflects their passion for architecture and homeopathic medicine, with bungalows crafted from felled trees and palm fronds, offering an eclectic retreat for any occasion.

Now, Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa offers a serene retreat for those seeking to reconnect with nature. This eco-friendly resort features rustic-chic accommodations, a spa offering holistic treatments inspired by Taino Indian traditions, daily yoga, meditation and fitness classes held in open-air pavilions, a walkable Buddha Path that leads to the resort’s organic garden, of which some of the organic cuisine is made.

Essential Safety Features Every New Florida Home Needs

By

-

July 19, 2024

A beautiful, orange Florida home sits on a waterfront property. Palm trees scatter the landscaping.

Living in Florida has its perks—sunny weather, beautiful beaches and vibrant communities and culture. However, the unique climate and geographical considerations also mean Florida homeowners have a unique challenge. They must prioritize safety features to protect their home and loved ones. Here are some essential safety features every new Florida home should have.

Hurricane-Resistant Windows

Florida is no stranger to hurricanes and tropical storms, which makes hurricane-resistant windows a must-have. These windows can withstand high winds and flying debris, offering much-needed protection during a storm. In fact, impact windows are essential for any Florida home, providing peace of mind and ensuring your home stays intact during extreme weather conditions.

Reinforced Garage Doors

Another critical safety feature is a reinforced garage door. Standard garage doors can easily buckle under the pressure of strong winds, but reinforced ones will endure the harshest conditions. This stability protects your car and stored items and prevents wind from entering your home and causing internal damage.

Secure Roof

A secure roof is important for defending your home against rain, wind and debris. Opt for materials that are known for their durability, such as metal or architectural shingles. Regular inspections and maintenance can help ensure your roof remains in top condition to weather any storm.

Home Security Systems

Modern home security systems offer more than just protection from intruders. Many now come equipped with weather detection features, alerting you to severe weather conditions and potential hazards. Smart technology allows you to monitor your home remotely, giving you real-time updates and control over your home’s security no matter where you are.

Fire Safety Measures

Fire safety is crucial in any home, and Florida is no exception. Ensure your home has smoke detectors in every room and test them regularly. Keep fire extinguishers in accessible locations, such as the kitchen and garage. Additionally, an emergency plan can make all the difference in a critical situation. Make sure all family members know the plan and conduct regular drills to keep everyone prepared.

Prioritizing safety in your Florida home is not just about protecting your property—it’s about the well-being of your family. By incorporating these essential safety features, you can enjoy all the benefits of having a home in Florida without compromising on safety. Take action today to fortify your home against the unique challenges of Florida living.

Why Caribbean Homes Need Emergency Shelters

By

-

July 19, 2024

An illustration of a large, swirling hurricane forming over the ocean as it would appear from space.

The Caribbean is a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures and warm hospitality. However, it’s also a place that faces frequent extreme weather events such as hurricanes and tropical storms. These natural occurrences make it crucial to understand why Caribbean homes need emergency shelters. Delve into the importance of emergency shelters, how they can protect lives, and what you need to consider when building one.

The Threat of Hurricanes

Hurricanes are regular and sometimes devastating occurrences in the Caribbean. They can cause widespread damage to homes, infrastructure and the natural environment. Emergency shelters provide a safe haven during these storms, protecting families from powerful winds, heavy rains and flying debris. A well-built shelter can be the difference between life and loss, offering peace of mind during hurricane season.

Importance of Structural Integrity

Caribbean homes often feature beautiful, airy designs suited for the tropical climate. However, these designs may not always withstand the brute force of a hurricane.

Emergency shelters can endure extreme weather conditions. They use reinforced materials and innovative engineering techniques to ensure they remain intact even under the most severe circumstances. Investing in an emergency shelter means investing in your family’s safety and well-being.

Protection for Extended Families

In the Caribbean, it is common for extended families to live together or nearby. This close-knit living arrangement makes it even more critical to have an emergency shelter that can accommodate multiple people. Having a designated space where everyone can gather ensures that all family members remain safe during a storm. It’s a practical solution that keeps loved ones close and safe.

Essential Features of Emergency Shelters

When considering whether your Caribbean home needs an emergency shelter, it’s essential to focus on specific features that enhance their effectiveness. Ventilation is crucial, so keeping your storm shelter air vents clean ensures that fresh air circulates during an emergency. Additionally, your shelter should have essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, first aid kits and communication devices. These preparations can make a significant difference in how comfortably and safely you ride out the storm.

In conclusion, the Caribbean’s geographic location makes it susceptible to severe weather events, underscoring why Caribbean homes need emergency shelters. These structures offer protection against hurricanes, preserve the integrity of living spaces, and safeguard extended families.

By incorporating essential features and maintaining them properly, you can ensure that your shelter serves its purpose during emergencies. Remember, having a well-prepared emergency shelter is not just a precaution—it’s a commitment to the safety and security of those you love.

8 Caribbean Athletes to Watch at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics

By

-

July 16, 2024

From Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada to Haiti and beyond, the Caribbean is renowned for producing world-class athletes who dominate the international sports scene. As the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics approach (from July 26th to August 11th), the region’s top talents are gearing up to shine on the global stage once again. Sprinters, swimmers, tennis players, and even weightlifters — these athletes embody the spirit of excellence and determination. Keep an eye on these incredible eight Caribbean athletes as they strive for glory and continue to elevate their islands’ proud sporting heritage.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce | Jamaica | Track and Field

The Top 8 Caribbean Athletes to Watch at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics — In 2015, Fraser-Pryce (center) became the second woman to defend a world 100 m title, and the first woman to win the title three times
Erik van Leeuwen, via Wikimedia Commons

A well-known legend in sprinting, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce continues to be a formidable force on the track. At 37, the “Pocket Rocket” shows no signs of slowing down in Paris, despite an announcement that this Olympics will be her last before retirement. With multiple Olympic gold medals to her name, Fraser-Pryce aims to further solidify her legacy in the 100m and 200m events. Her incredible speed and experience make her a strong contender for the podium in Paris, and with fellow “Big Three” sprinter Elaine Thompson-Herah out with an achilles injury, there are even more eyes on Fraser-Pryce and teammade Shericka Jackson to bring home gold for Jamaica.

Kirani James | Grenada | Track and Field

Kirani James, the pride of Grenada as the first and only Olympic medalist of the island, is another athlete to watch closely. Known for his prowess in the 400m, “The Jaguar” has previously won Olympic gold in London in 2012 and silver in Rio in 2016. After a challenging period dealing with the confirmed onset of Graves’ disease, he surprised fans and returned to form with a bronze medal in Tokyo 2020. James’ resilience and competitive spirit will be key as he seeks to add a fourth medal to his collection in Paris with new coach Chris Lawrence. His former coach Harvey Glance passed away in June 2023.

Dylan Carter | Trinidad and Tobago | Swimming

Dylan Carter is a versatile swimmer from Trinidad and Tobago, competing in freestyle, backstroke and butterfly events. Carter has represented his country in multiple international competitions, like the 2021 World Short Course Championships where he became the first Trinbagonian swimmer to win a silver medal in the 50 meter butterfly. He made his first appearance in Rio in 2016 and also competed in Tokyo 2020 without taking home any medals, so he’s looking to make a significant impact as he heads to Paris after breaking the Olympic standard of 48.34 seconds in the men’s 100m freestyle by .10 seconds at the 2023 TYR Pro Swim Series in Ft Lauderdale, cinching his qualification for Paris.

Jean-Julien Rojer | Curaçao | Tennis

Jean-Julien Rojer, representing the Netherlands but originally from Curaçao, is a top-ranked doubles tennis player. With multiple Grand Slam titles to his name, Rojer’s expertise and experience in doubles make him a formidable competitor in the Olympic tennis tournament. Despite not placing higher than 9th since his first Olympic appearance in London in 2012, he will look to add an Olympic medal to his impressive career achievements in Paris.

Yohan Blake | Jamaica | Track and Field

Yohan Blake, the 2011 World Champion in the 100m, remains a key figure in Jamaican athletics. After Usain Bolt’s retirement in 2017 after the Rio Olympics, Blake stepped into the spotlight as a leader of the new generation of sprinters. Although he has faced challenges with hamstring injuries, Blake’s experience and determination make him a strong contender for a medal in the 100m in Paris, which he has publicly stated will be his final Olympics.

Andre De Grasse | Canada | Track and Field

While competing for team Canada, Andre De Grasse’s roots trace back to Trinidad and Tobago on his mother’s side, and he proudly represents the Caribbean diaspora. De Grasse is known as the “fastest man in Canada” and won gold in the men’s 200m, and bronze in the men’s 4x100m relay and the men’s 100m in Tokyo 2020. In Rio 2016, his first Olympic games, he stood out with silver in the 200m and two bronze medals again in the 100m and 4x100m relay. His remarkable speed and consistency make him a favorite in both the 100m and 200m sprints for his showing in Paris.

Steven Gardiner | The Bahamas | Track and Field

Steven Gardiner, the reigning Olympic gold champion in the 400m, is another star from The Bahamas. Known for his smooth and powerful running style, Gardiner has consistently been at the top of his game. In a devastating turn at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, Gardiner suffered a tendon sprain and collapsed during his semi-final heat, abruptly ending his Budapest campaign. However he is back to full health, looking forward to defending his title in Paris 2024 and continuing The Bahamas’ tradition of success in track and field.

Julien Alfred | Saint Lucia | Track and Field

Julien Alfred is a rising star in Caribbean athletics, known for her speed in the sprints. Hailing from Saint Lucia, Alfred has made significant strides on the international stage, particularly in the 100m and 200m events. With her recent successes in the collegiate circuit and her gold medal in the 60m event at the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships, Alfred is poised to make a big impact in Paris and possibly secure her, and Saint Lucia’s, first Olympic medal.

From seasoned champions to emerging stars, these athletes embody the spirit and resilience of the Caribbean and will undoubtedly inspire millions as they compete on the world’s biggest stage.

6 Unique Ways To Make Your Caribbean Wedding Day Stand Out

By

-

July 16, 2024

A wedding in the Caribbean is a dream come true for many brides. The crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches and lush landscapes create the perfect backdrop for your special day. But how can you make your Caribbean wedding truly unforgettable? Let us help! These unique ideas will help you make your Caribbean wedding day stand out.

Choosing the Perfect Caribbean Location

The Caribbean offers many amazing and stunning locations, each with its own unique charm. Whether you prefer Jamaica’s vibrant culture, the Bahamas’ serene beaches or the Dominican Republic’s exotic allure, there’s a perfect spot for your nuptials.

Unique Themes and Decor Ideas

Incorporate the essence of the Caribbean into your wedding theme and decor. Think tropical flowers, vibrant colors and beachy elements. Don’t shy away from bold and colorful wedding dress styles that reflect the lively spirit of the region. This tip will make you stand out and add a unique flair to your wedding photos.

Local Customs and Traditions

Incorporating local customs and traditions can add a unique touch to your ceremony. Consider including a local band from the Bahamas or a traditional Dominican rum cake in your festivities. That cake will surely leave an impression on your guests. These elements will entertain your guests and give them a deeper appreciation of the local culture.

Tips for a Memorable Beach Wedding

A beach wedding in the Caribbean can be magical. To ensure everything goes smoothly, choose an optimal time for the ceremony, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the midday heat. Remember to provide your guests with essentials like sunscreen, fans and flip-flops to keep them comfortable.

Don’t forget the time of year matters as well. Hurricane season is from June to November. It’s best to avoid planning a wedding during these months.

Must-Try Caribbean Cuisine and Cocktails

Food and drink are crucial elements of any celebration. Delight your guests with Caribbean cuisine such as jerk chicken, conch fritters and plantains. Signature cocktails like the Piña Colada or Rum Punch will add a refreshing twist to your reception and keep the tropical vibes flowing.

Eco-Friendly Wedding Options

Protecting the natural beauty of the Caribbean is important. Opt for eco-friendly wedding options such as biodegradable decorations, locally sourced flowers and sustainable catering choices. These choices minimize your environmental impact and support the local economy.

Your Caribbean wedding day should reflect your personality and style. By incorporating these unique ideas, you can create a memorable Caribbean wedding that you and your guests will cherish forever. Good luck with wedding planning!

FFTP Partners With Cedella Marley for Hurricane Beryl Response

By

Guest Admin

-

July 11, 2024

island-origins-FFTP-cedella-marley-07-08-24_Cedella Marley FFTP Packing03 - resized — Grammy award winner Cedella Marley, daughter of reggae music legend Bob Marley and his wife Rita Marley, stopped by Food For The Poor (FFTP) headquarters in Coconut Creek, Fla., to help pack relief supplies bound for Jamaica last week. Hurricane Beryl’s eyewall brushed by Jamaica’s southern coast on July 3 as a Category 4 storm with winds of 130 mph, blowing off roofs, knocking out power, and unleashing intense wind and rain. Marley is leading relief efforts in partnership with FFTP. Photo/Food For The Poor

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. (July 10, 2024) – Food For The Poor (FFTP) is partnering with Grammy Award-winning artist Cedella Marley to raise funds to help survivors of Hurricane Beryl with repairs or replacement of thousands of Zinc roofs damaged and destroyed by the Category 4 storm, which swept across Jamaica and several other Caribbean Islands last week.

Marley is the daughter of legendary Jamaican reggae musicians Bob Marley and Rita Marley.

“I have many family members and friends in Jamaica, and I’ve been in constant contact with them,” said Marley, who lives in South Florida. “They tell me there’s great concern for those left hungry and homeless, especially the children.”

FFTP Partners With Cedella Marley for Hurricane Beryl Response — Grammy award winner Cedella Marley, daughter of reggae music legend Bob Marley and his wife Rita Marley, stopped by Food For The Poor (FFTP) headquarters in Coconut Creek, Fla., to help pack relief supplies bound for Jamaica last week. Hurricane Beryl’s eyewall brushed by Jamaica’s southern coast on July 3 as a Category 4 storm with winds of 130 mph, blowing off roofs, knocking out power, and unleashing intense wind and rain. Marley is leading relief efforts in partnership with FFTP. Photo/Food For The Poor

Marley visited FFTP’s Coconut Creek headquarters on Friday and Saturday and worked alongside volunteers to pack hygiene kits with essential everyday items that people need in a crisis.

“People need help and that’s why we’re working with Food For The Poor on delivering much-needed supplies,” Marley said. “This is a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions.”

With so many homes in need of new roofs or major roof repairs, the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation, working in concert with FFTP, is raising funds to provide zinc roofing and hurricane straps. Go to foodforthepoor.org/1love1roof to learn more.

“We are deeply honored to partner with Cedella Marley and the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation,” FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine said.

“The materials for new roofs and these repairs are critical for the families affected,” he added. “They will provide safety, security, and hope to those who have faced unimaginable hardship. As we brace for what is expected to be an active hurricane season, it is more important than ever that these roofs and repairs are completed swiftly.”

FFTP launched a massive response to Beryl even before the storm made landfall, with hundreds of disaster preparedness kits staged in Jamaica and the Windward Islands.

Prior to the storm in Jamaica, disaster preparedness kits for 500 families were ready to be deployed. The day after the storm, the charity delivered 400 packages (and an additional 140 by that weekend) of food, hygiene kits, tarps, water boots and blankets to affected families in the six hardest hit parishes of St. Mary, St. Thomas, St. Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, and St. Elizabeth.

FFTP also has 53 containers of food, hygiene items, and medical supplies either at the port or en route to all affected areas, including 27 containers in transit to Jamaica.

More than 1,000 people evacuated their homes in Jamaica and are now in shelters. FFTP-Jamaica is supporting these shelters through partnerships, providing food, hygiene items, mattresses, bed linens, and pillows.

Raine said FFTP is uniquely positioned to provide aid through its network of more than 30 distribution centers around Jamaica, plus a network of partners in the Windward Islands.

“Our team, in collaboration with local partners, is ensuring that essential aid reaches those who need it most,” Raine said. “We are committed to standing by these communities as they begin the process of recovery and rebuilding.”

Additional help from trusted FFTP partners includes:

A total of 720 family emergency kits and 720 emergency food kits from Toronto-based GlobalMedic.

Medical supplies and hygiene kits from Lenexa, Kan.-based Heart to Heart International.

Amazon’s Disaster Relief Team, through a partnership with Good360, has donated $20,000 in gift cards to FFTP to order relief items.

Bob & Rita Marley Foundation

The Bob & Rita Marley Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to community upliftment through initiatives in education, sports, culture, healthcare, and sustainable development in Jamaica. Guided by the principles of love and compassion, it aims to eliminate poverty and discrimination, particularly for the elderly, women, and children, embodying the Marleys’ vision of One Love, One Heart, One Voice. For more information visit bobmarleyfoundation.org.

Food For The Poor

Food For The Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the nation, does much more than feed millions of hungry children and families living in poverty primarily in 15 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. This interdenominational Christian ministry provides emergency relief assistance, water, medicine, educational materials, homes, support for vulnerable children, care for the aged, skills training, and micro-enterprise development assistance. For more information, please visit foodforthepoor.org.

The Best Golf Courses To Play in the Dominican Republic

By

-

July 9, 2024

A golf course green overlooks the crystal-clear, turquoise ocean. A red golf pin flag sits in the hole.

Golfers seeking a tropical paradise to indulge in their passion will find nothing can compare to the Dominican Republic. With its stunning landscapes, world-class courses and year-round perfect weather, it’s no wonder this Caribbean gem has become a top destination for golf enthusiasts. Here, you’ll find the best golf courses to play in the Dominican Republic.

Top Golf Courses in the Dominican Republic

Each of these golf courses will deliver an unforgettable golfing experience with exceptional design, stunning scenery and unique challenges. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a casual player, these courses will impress and provide a memorable round of golf.

Teeth of the Dog

Teeth of the Dog, located in La Romana, is the crown jewel of Caribbean golf. Designed by Pete Dye, this course features seven oceanfront holes that provide stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The course’s strategic bunkering and challenging greens make it a favorite among golfers worldwide.

Punta Espada

Punta Espada is a new course that has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best in the region. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course in Cap Cana offers eight holes that play along the ocean, with several others providing spectacular sea views. Punta Espada’s immaculate conditioning and challenging layout make it a must-play for any golfer visiting the Dominican Republic.

Corales Golf Course

Designed by Tom Fazio, Corales Golf Course in Punta Cana is known for its stunning seaside holes and dramatic cliffs. The course culminates in the “Devil’s Elbow,” a trio of final holes that challenge players with demanding shots and breathtaking scenery. Corales has hosted PGA Tour events, further cementing its status as a top-tier course.

Dye Fore

Another Pete Dye masterpiece, Dye Fore in Casa de Campo offers seven scenic cliff-side holes. Every golfer will enjoy picturesque views of the river below. Some even say you’ll see the most stunning view of the Dominican Republic from this golf course.

Iberostar Bávaro Golf Club

Located in Punta Cana, Iberostar Bávaro Golf Club is an accessible yet challenging course designed by P.B. Dye. The course’s rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers and water hazards make for an engaging round. Iberostar’s all-inclusive resort amenities add to the appeal, making it an excellent choice for a golf getaway.

Experience the Dominican Republic Beyond Golf

While golf is one of the best attractions, the Dominican Republic offers plenty of other activities. Non-golfers can explore the island’s beautiful beaches, vibrant towns and rich cultural heritage. Activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and hiking provide opportunities to experience the island’s natural beauty. Don’t forget to visit historical sites, sample local cuisine and engage in water sports to enhance your trip.

Gather a group today and book your flight to the Caribbean to visit one (or all!) of these top golf courses in the Dominican Republic. There’s no bad time to visit.

Grenadian Formula 1 Star Lewis Hamilton Takes the Heat on Popular YouTube Show “Hot Ones”

By

-

July 3, 2024