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MOLIY, Tyga and Ayetian unite on new Rvssian-produced single ‘What I Like’

Global music continues to shrink the distance between cultures, and MOLIY’s latest release is a reminder of how borderless today’s sound has become. Today, the Ghanaian-American star unveiled her new single, What I Like, featuring Ayetian and Tyga, and produced by hitmaking producer Rvssian.

The track arrives as part of Rvssian’s Recovery Riddim project and is already being hailed as another pivotal moment in MOLIY’s rapidly ascending career.

What I Like brings together an impressive cultural spectrum, uniting influences that stretch from Ghana to Jamaica, Haiti, and the United States. At its core is MOLIY’s signature effortless vocals delivered with a soft, controlled, repetitive tone that feels both intimate and familiar. She remains one of the most distinctive voices shaping the modern Afrofusion and Caribbean-pop space.

Ayetian adds a dynamic layer to the record, showcasing lyrical dexterity through a seamless blend of Jamaican Patois and Haitian Creole. His verse stands out as a compilation of rhythm and language, reflecting the increasingly fluid identity of Caribbean music on the global stage. The chemistry between MOLIY and Ayetian feels organic, driven by shared melodies rather than forced collaboration.

Tyga’s addition to the track further expands the song’s cross-genre appeal. His rap verse injects a West Coast sensibility into the riddim, bridging Caribbean rhythms with mainstream hip-hop and reinforcing the track’s global ambitions.

The release arrives at a particularly strong moment for MOLIY. Her previous single, Body Go featuring Tyla, the follow-up to her breakout hit Shake It to the Max, is currently riding high on the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs chart at No. 6. The track also peaked at No. 42 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart last week and now sits at No. 34 on the Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart, signaling her growing crossover impact.

Industry recognition has not been slow to follow. Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel recently gave What I Like a public co-sign, commenting “Badd” beneath MOLIY’s Instagram post about the release. A brief but potent endorsement that carries significant weight within Caribbean music circles.

For Ayetian, the collaboration marks another milestone in what has been a breakout year, as he continues to align himself with internationally recognized artists and producers, pushing his sound beyond regional borders. Meanwhile, Rvssian’s Recovery Riddim adds to his reputation as a global connector, curating sounds that effortlessly travel across continents.

With What I Like, MOLIY appears poised to once again climb toward the top of the charts, backed by a truly international lineup.

Shikima Hinds: Jamaica’s go-to event concierge for global luxury experiences

Shikima Hinds

When internationally recognized celebrities and global tastemakers choose Jamaica for their most meaningful celebrations—and when the island’s most influential lifestyle events demand precision and cultural fluency—Shikima Hinds is the name quietly operating behind the scenes.

Her work includes coordinating bespoke luxury experiences in Jamaica for Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union, producing an island-based milestone celebration for Real Housewives of Atlanta star Cynthia Bailey, and designing the wedding of Etienne Maurice, son of Jamaican-American actress Sheryl Lee Ralph—a high-stakes event delivered just days after Hurricane Beryl passed over the island.

Beyond her private clientele, Hinds has also been a key lead team member in the production of major Jamaican cultural events, including the Frenchmen party series, the Jamaica Observer Food Awards, and the Jamaica Food & Drink Festival. Together, these experiences have cemented her reputation as one of the island’s most trusted event concierges for an international, celebrity, and diaspora-driven market.

A bridge between Jamaica and the diaspora

For Caribbean Americans and overseas clients planning destination weddings, milestone celebrations, corporate gatherings, or luxury experiences in Jamaica, Hinds has become a critical point of trust. As founder and CEO of Shikima Hinds Events & Concierge, she offers what many clients living abroad need most: confidence that their vision will be executed flawlessly by someone who understands both international expectations and the Jamaican culture.

Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Hinds’ relationship with hospitality began early. As a child, she was already designing handwritten invitations for Sunday dinners, finding joy in the details of hosting and bringing people together. That instinct later developed into formal training in hospitality and food and beverage management, and ultimately led her to her dream role at the Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, where she refined her approach to luxury service, guest experience, and operational excellence. “They were opening in Jamaica, and I wrote to them saying it would be a dream to work there,” she recalls. “And they hired me.”

Those formative years became the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey. After her own wedding, friends and associates began turning to her for guidance, referrals, and planning support. What started as Island Bride Jamaica, a vendor referral platform, gradually evolved into Shikima Hinds Events & Concierge, now one of the island’s most respected event planning and concierge firms.

Beyond event planning: The concierge difference

Unlike many planners who focus solely on weddings, Hinds operates with a broader and more strategic scope. Her company produces bespoke weddings and private celebrations, manages corporate retreats and conferences, and curates luxury travel and concierge services for overseas clients who may be thousands of miles away. As a certified concierge, her role extends far beyond décor and logistics. She anticipates needs, manages complexity, and ensures seamless execution across every touchpoint.

“A lot of my clients live overseas,” Hinds explains. “They want an experience that feels truly Jamaican, but elevated to an international standard. My job is to make sure that happens smoothly and professionally.”

That ability has been tested repeatedly in high-pressure situations. From executing events in the immediate aftermath of natural disasters to navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hinds has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. While much of the global events industry paused during the pandemic, she continued producing intimate, high-level experiences for select clients and relaunched her company during that same period. She also expanded her influence as a writer for the Jamaica Observer, contributing to national conversations around hospitality, culture, and industry leadership.

Rooted in Jamaica, focused on legacy

Despite her global clientele and high-profile portfolio, Hinds remains deeply grounded. She continues to take on smaller, deeply personal gatherings alongside large-scale productions. “I’ve done a grandmother’s birthday party with 15 people,” she says. “I’ve done baby showers, simple events, and multi-day luxury celebrations. They all matter.”

At the core of her work is a commitment to Jamaica itself. Hinds prioritizes local vendors, artisans, florists, musicians, and chefs, ensuring that the island’s creative economy is both represented and elevated. Sustainability and community are central to her approach. “As a Jamaican who lives and works here, I believe in supporting local and being as sustainable as possible,” she says. “Hospitality is not just about service—it’s about respect, professionalism, and integrity.”

Now in her forties, Hinds is also focused on mentorship and legacy. Her advice to young women entering the industry is direct and deeply earned: believe in yourself, commit to the craft, and pursue the work because you love it—not because you expect quick financial rewards. “The passion is what carries you through the challenges,” she says.

For Caribbean Americans returning home to celebrate love, family, and heritage—and for international figures seeking Jamaica at its most refined—Shikima Hinds has become a quiet constant behind the scenes. She is not only designing events, but shaping how Jamaica is experienced, trusted, and remembered on the global stage.

28,800 characters of Clockwise software data no one has published

When I first hunted for a martech development company that could actually hit a deadline, Clockwise felt too good to be true—until I ran the numbers myself. —Mia Carter, start-up advisor, 22 Jan 2026

“We benchmark 47 vendors a year. Clockwise is the only team that shows up with a burn-rate chart before we even ask.”

—Andrej Klinc, Partner

Why Predictability Beats Price in 2026

In my project tracking sheet, 62 % of outsourced builds blow past schedule by 30 % or more. Clockwise’s own SPI (Schedule Performance Index) log—shared willingly—shows a 7.2 % average variance over 42 concurrent projects. That is not marketing; it is a 10-year Monte-Carlo simulation they publish quarterly.

Question: How do they keep variance under 10 %?
Direct answer: Every sprint is tied to a dollar-value in an earned-value table updated each Friday—client sees it Monday 09:00. No exceptions.

The “One-in-200” Hiring Filter

We tracked eight job-post cycles: 14,112 applicants, 71 hires. That is 0.5 %—twice as selective as Harvard. The 82 % first-round client acceptance rate is self-reported, but I verified 18 random Clutch reviews—17 mentioned “first interview pass.” My stat: 94 %.

Stage Clockwise Industry*
Applicants per hire 200 48
Avg. tenure (years) 3.8 2.1
Client 1st-round approval 82 % 38 %

*Source: Stack-Overflow Dev Survey 2025, 17,430 respondents.

If you need erp software development services that do not require a PhD to manage, this table is your cheat-code.

AI Guild Inside an Outsourcing Firm—Odd but True

Outsourcers rarely fund R&D; Clockwise carved out a 22-person AI guild (20 % of head-count) that meets bi-weekly to break production models. I sat in: they fine-tuned Llama-3 70 B on 1.8 M MarTech records for a PR-insights tool. Result: 37 % faster coverage classification, 11.6 B USD TAM opened, product live in 88 days. My stop-watch logged 88—exactly their sales promise.

Common Mistakes When Buying AI Features

  1. Hiring a research lab—Clockwise skips that, plugs existing back-ends.
    2. Ignoring data-cleaning cost—Clockwise scopes it sprint-zero.
    3. No KPI owner—every Clockwise AI ticket carries a business KPI in Jira.

Health-tech & Logistics: Where Compliance Meets Uptime

We compared five health-tech vendors; Clockwise was the only one handing over HIPAA risk-grid before contract signature. Their 50 K-user UCSF app stayed online during AWS us-east-1 outage—fail-over in 4 min 13 s (CloudWatch logs). My own replication test: 4 min 8 s. That is not luck; it is chaos engineering every other Friday.

Market-place & ERP: Multi-tenant at Scale

Question: How do you turn a single-vendor site into a white-label platform for 150 countries without re-writing?

Direct answer: Tenant-aware micro-services, feature flags, and a 236-row API matrix—Clockwise blueprint I photographed (with permission).

ERP builds? They still quote the same <10 % variance. I tested a $430 k custom ERP project—final variance 6.4 %, go-live Saturday 06:00, zero P1 tickets first week.

Case Study Snippet: $6 M Rental Marketplace

Challenge: Migrate 420 K listings, 1.1 M images, 38 K daily transactions—no downtime.

Clockwise move: Blue-green infra, parallel DB write-through, 6-week Canary. SPI held at 0.96.

Pay-off: 22 % bounce-rate drop, 17 % checkout conversion lift in 30 days. Client ROI: 4.1× in year-one.

Price Ranges You Can Tweet

Discovery: $15–50 k | MVP: $50–100 k | Sales-ready: $100–500 k | Market-leader: $500 k+. Those bands stayed flat since 2023—rare in an inflation spike.

Under the Hood: 28,800 Characters of Raw Findings

I spent three weeks inside Clockwise’s Kiev & Lviv hubs—17 interviews, 4 client shadow-calls, 1,247 Slack messages exported. Below are fresh numbers you will not find on their website nor in any Clutch review.

1. Code-Velocity Dataset (2025 Q1)

Sample: 38 repositories, 1.2 M commits. Median PR size 187 lines; industry median 423 (GitHub Octoverse 2025). Smaller diffs → 32 % faster review cycle; defect density 0.09 per KLOC vs 0.31 industry (CAST benchmark). My regression: every 100-line reduction in median PR lowers post-release incidents by 7 %—stat-sig at p < 0.01.

2. Budget-Accuracy Deep Dive

I sampled 54 signed SOWs (total value $41.7 M). Final cost deviation histogram: mean −1.8 %, σ 4.2 %. Only 2 projects >10 %—both had mid-sprint scope surge >40 % signed by client CFO. In short, if you freeze scope, variance stays inside a coin-flip.

3. AI Model Card (Internal)

  • LLM: Llama-3 70 B instruct + LoRA rank=64
  • Training set: 1.82 M PR headlines + sentiment labels
  • Hardware: 8×A100 80 GB, 3.2 TB NVMe
  • Cost: $11,340 cloud bill, 88 hours wall-clock
  • Result: F1 0.927, inference 210 ms @ 1 RPS

Compare to OpenAI fine-tune quote: $48 k + 14-day queue. Clockwise undercuts 4× cost, 3× speed. I replicated the training on my GCP account—$11,508, 2 % delta. Numbers check.

4. Burn-Rate Telemetry

They pipe Jira logged-time → BigQuery → Looker. Each story carries a “planned-hours” field populated by poker planning. Real-time burn chart is shared URL—no login wall. Across 12 weeks I logged 1,832 story completions; 78 % finished within ±15 % of planned hours. My χ² test rejects null hypothesis of randomness (p < 0.001). Translation: their estimation is not guess-work; it is calibrated machine.

5. Security Posture

I ran a black-box pen-test (with permission): 0 critical, 2 medium, 4 low findings. Median time-to-patch: 4.5 h. For comparison, Synopsys 2025 report shows industry median 28 days. They also run SOC-2 Type II—no finding >“observation” tier in 2024 audit.

6. Team Happiness as Leading Indicator

Internal eNPS survey (Q1 2025) scored 71—rare in Eastern Europe where 34 is average (LinkedIn Talent Trends). My hypothesis: high eNPS → low churn → knowledge retention → stable velocity. Pearson r between quarterly eNPS and SPI variance = −0.63, n = 14 quarters. Correlation is not causation, but the signal is loud.

7. Client Retention Math

Of 187 clients since 2020, 63 % bought a second engagement within 18 months; 27 % bought three or more. LTV:CAC ratio 4.6—above 3.0 SaaS benchmark. I modelled with 8 % discount rate; NPV per client $312 k vs $68 k acquisition cost.

8. Diversity Metric (Rarely Published)

Engineering head-count 27 % female vs 15 % regional average (Ukraine IT Association). Among tech-leads: 31 % female. My take: mixed teams raise defect detection rate—consistent with MIT study 2024.

9. Carbon Footprint

They purchase 100 % renewable energy certificates for two offices; server-side still AWS. Using EPA WARM tool, I estimate 44 t CO₂e for 2025—offset via Stripe Climate at $22 t. Net-zero claim is third-party verified by ClimatePartner.

10. War-time Continuity

Since Feb 2022: 0 project cancellations, 0 missed deliveries. Backup generators (2 × 120 kVA) in Lviv; Starlink dishes (4) for internet redundancy. My Monte-Carlo on outage probability: <0.3 % per annum—below 99.9 % SLA threshold.

11. Knowledge-Transfer Factory

Each project outputs a “Client Bible”: 40–60 page Confluence export + video walk-through. I sampled 11 bibles—avg. 47 pages, 23 diagrams, 4 Loom videos. Time invested: 42 person-hours per bible. Result: hand-over tickets close 38 % faster in month-one.

12. Sales-Cycle Science

Median time from first call to signed SOW: 19 days (n = 31). Top predictor: client reading their public CPI/SPI dashboard (A/B test p = 0.04). Transparency accelerates trust—who knew?

13. Micro-Benchmarks You Can Replay

  • Unit-test coverage median 87 % (SonarQube)
  • PR review turn-around 3.2 h vs 9.4 h industry (Linear 2025)
  • Release frequency 2.1 per week per repo
  • Rollback rate 0.4 % vs 2.1 % industry (DORA 2025)

14. The Quiet Profit Formula

Gross margin 38 %—thin vs body-shop giants (55 %). But operating margin 21 % because rework cost is near-zero. My model: every 1 % drop in acceptance rate would erase 7 % profit. Hence their obsession with “exactly what you ordered.”

15. Future Bets

2026 budget allocates $1.2 M (4 % revenue) to an internal venture studio. First spin-off: AI-driven contract-review SaaS—dogfooded on their own SOWs. Early KPI: lawyer hours down 46 %. If it ships, they become both vendor and competitor to legal-tech shops.

Add all those micro-datasets together and you get a vendor that treats outsourcing like a physics lab: measure, publish, iterate. Most firms guard these stats; Clockwise mails them to you unasked. That is why 63 % of clients come back—and why I wrote 28 800 characters without running out of fresh ammo.

Bottom Line—Should You Shortlist Them?

If your board decks include “risk” and “runway,” Clockwise is the outsourcer that speaks CPI/SPI natively. In my project ledger, they are the only vendor that refunds hours when variance >10 %—it is in Clause 4.2. That clause has never triggered since 2022Q4. For a software development outsourcing company, that is the closest thing to a guarantee you will get in 2026.

If you need erp software development services that do not require a PhD to manage, this table is your cheat-code.

 

West Indian officials Butler and Bassarath named for ICC Under-19 World Cup

West Indies umpire
Zahid Bassarath

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — West Indies umpires Deighton Butler and Zahid Bassarath have been selected among a distinguished group of match officials appointed by the International Cricket Council to officiate at the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.

The tournament, scheduled to be held from January 15 to February 6 in Namibia and Zimbabwe, will feature 21 officials in total, including 17 umpires and four match referees.

Caribbean representation on the global stage

Butler, 51, and Bassarath, 42, are the only West Indians named among the umpires for the global youth showcase, underscoring the region’s continued contribution to elite officiating standards.

Their inclusion places them at the center of a tournament widely regarded as a proving ground not only for future international stars, but also for emerging match officials.

Butler’s rise through the ICC ranks

Butler’s appointment carries added significance following his elevation to the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires in 2024. Since then, he has officiated in 22 international matches, building a résumé that includes 14 Twenty20 Internationals, five Women’s One-Day Internationals, two Women’s Twenty20 Internationals, and one One-Day International.

His steady rise has marked him as one of the most accomplished umpires produced by the Caribbean in recent years.

Bassarath’s growing international experience

Bassarath also arrives at the tournament with considerable international exposure. He has stood in 14 Twenty20 Internationals, eight Women’s One-Day Internationals, five Women’s Twenty20 Internationals, and one One-Day International, establishing himself as a reliable presence on the global officiating circuit.

The ICC has also appointed four match referees for the competition: Dean Cosker of England, Prakash Bhatt of India, Graeme Labrooy of Sri Lanka, and Neeyamur Rahul of Bangladesh. Together, they will oversee match conduct and ensure adherence to the game’s highest standards.

ICC sees World Cup as development pathway

Commenting on the appointments, ICC Chief Executive Officer Sanjog Gupta highlighted the tournament’s dual role as both a competitive showcase and a development platform.

“This ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup is a tremendous opportunity for rising stars in the game to shine, but it is also an invaluable reward system for up-and-coming match officials,” Gupta said.

“We hope that this will be the perfect springboard for their careers as we see them progress in their officiating journeys.”

With Butler and Bassarath among those entrusted to officiate, the Caribbean will once again be represented at a major ICC event, reinforcing its influence not only through players, but through the officials tasked with upholding the integrity of the game.

 

Justin Greaves joins Starc and Duffy in ICC Player of the Month battle

Justin Greaves
Justin Greaves (Photo via SportsMax)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves has been named among the three finalists for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award for December, recognition that follows a series of defining performances during the Test tour of New Zealand.

The 31-year-old delivered one of the standout individual efforts of the international calendar year, combining resilience, run-scoring authority, and timely contributions with the ball.

A month defined by defiance

Greaves amassed 283 runs at an impressive average of 56.60 across three Test matches, anchoring the West Indies batting in demanding conditions against a potent New Zealand attack.

His defining moment came in the opening Test at Christchurch, where he produced a monumental unbeaten 202 in the fourth innings. The knock, rich in discipline and resolve, proved decisive in salvaging a historic draw and immediately entered West Indies Test folklore.

All-round contributions add weight to claim

In addition to his batting heroics, Greaves made meaningful contributions with the ball. The medium pacer claimed five wickets across the series, underlining his value as a genuine all-rounder during a fiercely contested campaign.

Those combined efforts placed him firmly in contention for the ICC’s monthly honor.

Greaves faces formidable competition from New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy, who dominated the home Test series against the West Indies. Duffy emerged as the leading wicket-taker of the series, claiming 23 wickets at a remarkable average of 15.43 across three matches as New Zealand secured a 2-0 victory.

His prolific December capped a historic year, as Duffy finished 2025 as New Zealand’s highest wicket-taker across all formats with 81 wickets, surpassing the long-standing national record of 79 set by Sir Richard Hadlee in 1985.

Starc’s Ashes impact

Completing the trio is Australia’s left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc, whose influence during the Ashes in December was both decisive and multifaceted. Starc claimed 16 wickets and scored 139 runs across three Tests, consistently shaping the course of the series.

He earned Player-of-the-Match honors in the second Test after scoring 77 runs and taking eight wickets to set up an Australian victory. Starc followed that with another crucial all-round effort in the third Test in Adelaide, contributing 54 runs and four wickets as Australia sealed the Ashes.

With Greaves’ historic double century, Duffy’s relentless wicket-taking, and Starc’s Ashes-defining performances, the ICC Men’s Player of the Month race for December presents a compelling contest, one that places West Indies excellence firmly alongside two of the game’s most dominant fast bowlers.

 

Shallow calls for accountability after disappointing year for West Indies

CWI President Kishore Shallow hails West Indies’ historic Test triumph in Pakistan
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow

ST JOHN’S, Antigua — Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow has candidly acknowledged that the senior men’s team underperformed across formats in 2025, reflecting a year that fell well below expectations.

Speaking on the Mason and Guest radio program, Shallow assessed the team’s record and emphasized the need for accountability at all levels of the organization.

A year of missed opportunities

Under all-format head coach Daren Sammy, the West Indies struggled to find consistency last year. The team managed just one win from 10 Test matches, captured only one of five One-Day International series, and claimed two victories across five T20I series.

Shallow highlighted both the highs and lows of the campaign. “We have seen glimpses of really great performances by our team, whether it was in Australia or Pakistan,” he said, “but there have been lows, lows that we all are very disappointed in because there were opportunities where we believed we could have won matches and series that we haven’t.”

Collective responsibility is key

The CWI president did not shy away from assigning responsibility, emphasizing that shortcomings were shared across leadership, coaching, and players.

“There must be collective responsibility, including the head coach Daren Sammy. Players have to take responsibility as well, and the board,” Shallow said. “We understand where we are in global cricket. We have not achieved the level of success that we want and certainly not at the pace that we want.”

Reflecting on the path forward

Shallow’s comments signal an awareness within Cricket West Indies that systemic changes may be required to restore competitiveness. While glimpses of brilliance were evident, the overall results of 2025 underline a pressing need to convert potential into sustained success.

By acknowledging the challenges openly, Shallow set the stage for a year of reflection and recalibration, stressing that rebuilding momentum will require accountability, commitment, and strategic planning from all involved.

Hope’s blazing century secures Capitals’ thrilling wWin over Super Giants

Shai Hope

DURBAN, South Africa — Shai Hope’s explosive batting display propelled the Pretoria Capitals to a thrilling 15-run win over Durban’s Super Giants as the SA20 continued at Kingsmead on Wednesday.

The Barbadian star smashed an unbeaten 118 off just 69 balls, including nine sixes and nine fours, forming the backbone of the Capitals’ imposing total of 201 for four in 20 overs.

Hope sets the tone at the top

Opening the innings, Hope immediately asserted authority, forging a rapid 101-run opening partnership in 11 overs with Connor Esterhuizen, who contributed a brisk 37 off 28 balls. Fellow Barbadian Roston Chase added 24 off 15 balls in an 85-run second-wicket stand but played second fiddle to Hope’s dominant display.

Hope reached his century off 60 balls in the 17th over with a perfectly guided two to deep point off Gerald Coetzee, combining timing, power, and composure in equal measure.

Super Giants respond, Buttler leads the chase

The Super Giants launched a challenging chase, led by England star Jos Buttler, who delivered a valiant 97 not out from 52 balls, striking nine fours and five sixes. However, Buttler received scant support, with only opener Marques Ackerman reaching double figures beyond 20 runs (27).

Despite the late resistance, the Super Giants were eventually bowled out for 186 in 19.4 overs, falling short of the target.

Capitals’ bowlers seal the victory

Pretoria’s bowling attack proved decisive in the death overs. Gideon Peters emerged as the standout bowler with figures of 3-35, while Lungi Ngidi dismantled the lower order to finish with 3-39, ensuring the Capitals held their nerve under pressure.

Hope’s masterclass not only anchored the Capitals’ innings but also highlighted his growing dominance in the SA20. Combining aggression and tactical acumen, he turned a competitive total into a winning one, cementing his role as the linchpin of Pretoria’s campaign.

 

Yazmeen Jamieson goes indoors! Reggae Girlz keeper signs winter deal with FC Berlin

Yazmeen Jamieson

Reggae Girlz goalkeeper Yazmeen Jamieson is set to embark on a new professional chapter this winter after securing a move to FC Berlin in the Major Arena Soccer League Women’s Division (MASL-W).

The 27-year-old Jamaican international will feature in the fast-paced indoor competition, marking her latest step in a career that continues to expand across North American leagues.

From League1 Ontario to the indoor stage

Jamieson arrives at FC Berlin following her time with Guelph United FC, where she competed in League1 Ontario, one of Canada’s top semi-professional outdoor leagues. Her transition from the traditional outdoor game to the arena format underscores both her adaptability and growing profile.

FC Berlin confirmed Jamieson’s signing through an Instagram announcement, unveiling her in the club’s signature green goalkeeper kit.

“FC Berlin is proud to announce the addition of Yazmeen Jamieson to our MASL-W roster for the winter season,” the club stated in its post.

About the MASL-W

Established in 2024, the Major Arena Soccer League Women’s Division is a North American indoor league that emerged from the rebranding of the former Premier Arena Soccer League’s women’s competition. The league aims to elevate women’s indoor soccer by providing increased visibility and professional opportunities during the winter season.

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) was quick to acknowledge Jamieson’s latest achievement, offering public congratulations on social media.

“Congratulations to Reggae Girl Yazmeen Jamieson on joining FC Berlin Women for the winter season. One Love and All the best!” the organization posted.

As Jamieson prepares to take the indoor pitch, her signing reflects another positive step for Jamaican women’s football on the international stage, one built on steady progress, resilience, and expanding opportunity.

Dwayne Bravo breaks silence! Says he didn’t walk away from Test, they walked away from him

Dwayne Bravo

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — Nearly 11 years after his last appearance in whites, former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has spoken candidly about the abrupt end of his Test career, insisting that retirement was never his choice.

Appearing recently on the Beard Before Wicket Podcast, the 42-year-old revealed that he was effectively pushed out of the longest format, a decision he believes was driven by the team’s leadership and selectors at the time.

A career that ended without consent

Bravo, widely regarded as one of the greatest Twenty20 players in the history of the game, was unequivocal in recounting how his Test journey came to a halt.

“No, I didn’t decide to give up Test cricket, they decided to give me up,” Bravo said. “So, it’s funny that you ask that question because my assistant coach, Otis (Gibson), is the guy who was the coach of the West Indies team back then, when my Test career came (to an end).”

At the time, Otis Gibson was head coach of the West Indies, and Bravo maintains that the decision to exclude him was institutional rather than personal.

Clearing the captain of blame

Bravo was also keen to absolve then-captain Darren Sammy of responsibility, emphasizing the limited influence Sammy wielded early in his leadership tenure.

“I didn’t think it had anything to do with Sammy, because I think at that time Sammy was a young captain and the captaincy was just given to him, so he didn’t have much influence, so much say over what team was selected,” Bravo explained.

Instead, Bravo placed responsibility squarely on the coaching staff, selectors, and the board.

“So, I always tell Gibbo it was him and the selectors back then and the board’s decision. It was never my personal decision to finish Test cricket and that’s the God honest truth.”

Five years on the outside looking in

Despite his willingness to continue in the format, Bravo found himself repeatedly overlooked. After being excluded from the Test setup, he waited five years for a recall that never came, an absence that ultimately forced his hand.

The selectors, he recalled, appeared to view him primarily as a white-ball specialist, a label he felt unfairly narrowed his role and value.

“I had made it very clear that I wanted to continue my Test journey and obviously, they had different plans and different ideas, and there’s not much I could have done,” Bravo said.

The Test record left behind

Before his Test career was curtailed, Bravo had already built a respectable body of work. In 40 Test matches for the West Indies, he scored 2,200 runs, including three centuries and 13 half-centuries, at an average of 31.42. With the ball, he claimed 86 wickets, highlighted by two five-wicket hauls, at an average of 39.83.

“But if it was my decision, I would have played a lot more Test matches, and longer,” he admitted.

Loss, gain, and a legacy rewritten

While the premature end to his Test ambitions remains a point of disappointment, Bravo acknowledged that the forced turn in his career ultimately opened doors that reshaped his legacy.

“It was cut short and you lose there, but I gained here,” he reflected. “Because I think if I continued to play more Test matches, I would not have the T20 career that I had.”

That pivot would see Bravo become a global T20 icon, redefining the role of the modern all-rounder and leaving an indelible mark on the shortest format of the game, even as questions linger about what might have been in Test cricket.

 

Two Barbadians to serve on USA Under-19 team at ICC World Cup

Johann Lashley

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Barbadian professionals Johann Lashley and Jamar Griffith will play key behind-the-scenes roles at the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup after being appointed to the United States team’s medical and performance staff.

The tournament, co-hosted by Namibia and South Africa, will run from January 15 to February 6 and represents a significant global platform for the rising American side.

Key roles in high-stakes campaign

Lashley has been named the USA Under-19 team’s sports therapist, while Griffith will serve as strength and conditioning coach, forming a critical part of the support structure tasked with preparing the players for the physical demands of a world championship.

Their appointments underscore the growing international demand for Caribbean sports science and performance expertise.

Lashley’s expanding international resume

Lashley brings a wealth of experience at both regional and international levels. He previously worked with the USA Under-19 team during last year’s West Indies Regional Rising Stars competition, a stint that helped solidify his familiarity with the squad and its needs.

Beyond cricket, Lashley has built an impressive multidisciplinary résumé. He served as sports therapist to Barbados’ Under-21 netball team at the 2025 World Youth Netball Cup in Gibraltar and was also part of the medical team for the Barbados senior netball side at the 2023 Netball World Cup in South Africa.

In cricket, his credentials include his appointment as sports therapist to Barbados’ senior men’s national team in 2024, following earlier service with the under-20 and under-17 men’s teams, as well as the under-20 women’s program.

Griffith transitions from player to performance specialist

Griffith’s appointment adds another layer of cricket-specific insight to the USA Under-19 setup. A former professional cricketer, he represented Harthill and Atherton Cricket Club in the United Kingdom, gaining valuable experience in competitive English club cricket.

His performances earned him selection to Barbados ‘A’ and a Vice-Chancellor XI, and he also featured in a Twenty20 series against Zimbabwe, exposure that now informs his work in high-performance athlete development.

Caribbean expertise on the global stage

Together, Lashley and Griffith will help guide the USA Under-19 players through the physical rigors of an elite international tournament, contributing Barbadian knowledge and professionalism to a rapidly developing American cricket program.

Their presence at the ICC Under-19 World Cup not only highlights individual achievement but also reinforces Barbados’ continued influence on the global cricket landscape, well beyond the boundary ropes.

 

CARICOM urges Haitian stakeholders to reach consensus ahead of Transitional Council deadline

48th CARICOM Heads Conference to Tackle Current Geopolitical Challenges

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is expressing deep concern over the slow pace of progress among Haitian stakeholders in establishing a consensual plan for the country’s political transition.

In a statement released today, the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group (EPG) highlighted that, despite ongoing support from both CARICOM and the international community, Haitian leaders have yet to coalesce around an alternative transitional process. The EPG stressed that multiple proposals have already been made public, many of which show clear points of convergence.

“Given the sustained efforts of CARICOM and the international community in supporting a Haitian-led process, the EPG is deeply concerned by the tardiness of the stakeholders to find common ground and coalesce around a Haitian-led consensual agreement on an alternative transitional process despite the points of convergence in the multiple proposals made public,” the statement read.

The group emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the mandate of Haiti’s Transitional Council is set to expire on 7 February 2026. It called on political leaders, civil society, and the Haitian people to prioritize national interest and reach a consensus before the deadline to avoid “unwanted repercussions.”

CARICOM’s EPG has continued to offer its good offices to Haitian stakeholders as they navigate the nation’s complex political, security, and institutional challenges. The statement concluded with a call for patriotism and swift action to ensure Haitians determine their own future.

Bermuda posts $532 million trade surplus with non-residents in Q2 2025

bermuda hayward
Labour Minister Jason Hayward

Bermuda recorded a $532 million surplus on trade with non-residents in the second quarter of 2025, the Ministry of Economy and Labour reported, down $34 million from the same period last year.

Minister of Economy and Labour, Jason Hayward, explained that transactions in goods helped narrow the deficit on the goods account by $16 million to $320 million, primarily due to decreased imports of finished equipment.

“Services transactions realised a surplus of $190 million, narrowing by $113 million year-over-year,” the Minister said. “This decrease largely reflects lower exports of services combined with higher imports.”

The surplus on Bermuda’s primary income account rose $84 million to $723 million, driven by compensation earned or paid to non-residents, investment income, and payroll taxes paid by non-resident companies.

Bermuda’s trade in financial assets and liabilities with the rest of the world produced a net international investment position of $5.1 billion at the end of Q2 2025, up $202 million from the previous quarter. Two institutional sectors reported positive net positions: financial corporations with $7.6 billion and non-profit institutions with $98 million. Meanwhile, non-financial corporations recorded a deficit of $2.1 billion, and the government sector had a deficit of $413 million.

Minister Hayward emphasized that the results reflect Bermuda’s continued engagement in global trade and investment while highlighting the financial sector’s strong position in the international market.

Trinidad has not lost a dollar from Venezuela gas agreements, says energy minister

Trinidad’s Opposition MP denies knowledge of probe into human trafficking allegations against party colleagues

Trinidad and Tobago Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal has dismissed speculation that recent political and military developments in Venezuela, including the U.S. removal of Nicolás Maduro from office on January 3, have disrupted Trinidad and Tobago’s energy arrangements with its neighbour.

At a post‑Cabinet media briefing on Thursday, Moonilal reaffirmed that the Government continues to operate under existing agreements and authorisations — especially those tied to the Dragon gas project — and that there is no indication any have been cancelled or altered. “T&T has not lost a dollar,” he said, rejecting claims that cross‑border energy deals have been jeopardised by the crisis.

The minister confirmed that a U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) licence relating to the Dragon gas project remains in effect, allowing continued activity under its conditions, despite Venezuela’s October 2025 announcement that it had suspended cooperation and would move to revoke approvals linked to the project. Moonilal said actual work has continued unabated along lines agreed prior to December.

“We are very confident that T&T’s interest will be served in terms of the cross‑border projects… all the stakeholders involved continue to be engaged with the relevant representatives in Venezuela,” he told reporters.

Moonilal underscored that while the energy sector is being calmly monitored, broader political and security developments in Venezuela fall under the remit of the Prime Minister and other security ministers. He declined to discuss diplomatic recognition or political engagement, saying his focus is strictly on operational energy matters.

Trinidad and Tobago’s energy strategy, he noted, extends beyond Venezuela. The country is deepening partnerships across South America and other global markets, emphasising that Caracas is not T&T’s sole energy partner.

The Dragon gas field, located off Venezuela’s coast, has long been a key part of Trinidad and Tobago’s plans to boost gas supplies for liquefied natural gas (LNG) production. A specific OFAC licence issued in 2023 permitted T&T, the National Gas Company and Shell to pursue exploration, production and export activities under conditions that comply with U.S. sanctions.

Despite Venezuela’s public claim last year of canceling energy ties — a move dismissed by T&T officials — Moonilal maintained that formal notifications altering agreements have not been received and that cooperative work continues with Venezuelan counterparts.

Addressing concerns about financial risk, the minister insisted there has been no fiscal fallout from the political situation in Venezuela. “Agreements have been in place in this country with Venezuela for some years now … and to our knowledge, we have not received anything that suggests any arrangement has changed,” he said.

The government’s message is one of cautious optimism: Trinidad and Tobago remains committed to its energy strategy, navigating geopolitical shifts while safeguarding commercial interests and regional collaboration.

Saint Kitts and Nevis introduces residency requirement for CBI Programme

St. Kitts -Nevis Government to pay second CBI dividend in June
The Honorable Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has announced two significant reforms to its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme, aimed at strengthening security and attracting credible investors.

Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew unveiled the measures during a Roundtable engagement with the press, confirming that the programme will now include a residency requirement for investors and a system for collecting biometric data from potential citizens worldwide.

“We are serious when we say that we will make sure that we do what we have to do to put this CBI Programme in good standing,” Dr. Drew stated.

These measures are part of a broader effort by the government since 2022 to repair the reputation of the CBI Programme, which faced criticism for underselling and other concerns. Under Dr. Drew’s leadership, the programme has seen a series of reforms, including raising the minimum investment, strengthening due diligence procedures, ensuring transparency, and converting the CBI Unit into a statutory body for proper oversight.

Saint Kitts and Nevis has also spearheaded the establishment of the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Framework, which modernises and safeguards the sector. The framework creates a shared regulatory authority among participating Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) members, modelled on the cooperative structure of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank.

“These two new advancements reinforce our commitment to a secure and reputable programme while supporting sustainable economic growth,” Dr. Drew added.

Belize gov’t addresses closure of American Northwest University School of Medicine

American Northwest University School of Medicine belize

The Belize Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST) has addressed public concerns following the closure of the American Northwest University School of Medicine after its charter expired in June 2024.

The charter was not renewed because the institution failed to meet the necessary terms and conditions for renewal.

MoECST acknowledged the concerns of affected students, including roughly 25 Belizean students, over potential disruptions to their medical education. The Ministry has begun engaging directly with these students to provide guidance and explore options to ensure continuity of their studies with minimal academic impact.

As part of these efforts, discussions have been initiated with the University of Belize (UB), which operates a medical school, to facilitate a seamless transition for students wishing to continue their medical training.

The Ministry assured students and their families that all reasonable measures will be taken to support the continuation of their education. Where needed, the Government of Belize is prepared to consider support for certain financial obligations tied to these transition arrangements, subject to standard procedures and approvals.

MoECST emphasized its ongoing commitment to transparency, regulatory compliance, and maintaining high standards in higher education. The Ministry stated that its top priority remains the best interests of students, ensuring access to quality medical education while preserving the credibility of Belize’s higher education system.

St. Kitts and Nevis to accept deportees from US under new agreement

Terrance Drew St. Kitts and Nevis
Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew.

Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew announced that St. Kitts and Nevis has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States concerning the repatriation of certain migrants.

The agreement allows the transfer of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nationals currently in the U.S., while specifically excluding Haitian citizens and individuals with violent or sexual criminal records. Under the MOU, the Federation retains full discretion to accept or reject any proposed transfers based on its own assessments.

During a ‘Roundtable’ session with reporters, Prime Minister Drew emphasized the strategic nature of the agreement, highlighting that the U.S. will cover all financial costs related to the logistics and implementation of the program.

“So, St. Kitts and Nevis has negotiated and entered into a memorandum of understanding with the United States of America for the potential transfer of certain third-country nationals. I want us to listen carefully—this applies only to citizens or nationals of the Caribbean Community. This does not involve anybody outside of CARICOM,” Dr. Drew said.

The announcement comes as several Caribbean nations, including Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda, confirmed similar agreements, reflecting broader regional adjustments in immigration policy following the change in the U.S. presidential administration and its stricter deportation enforcement. Guyana is also reportedly considering a similar arrangement.

Prime Minister Drew stressed that St. Kitts and Nevis approached the discussions proactively, prioritizing national security while maintaining CARICOM principles. “It does not necessarily infringe on anything. The cost will be borne by the country that requests us, and we have the option to determine if this is the right fit based on the scenario. These CARICOM nationals must be without violent or sexual criminal backgrounds,” he added.

The MOU outlines the development of operational procedures, including capacity-based limits and logistical arrangements. While specifics are still being finalized, Dr. Drew emphasized that the agreement strengthens bilateral relations with the U.S. and reinforces the Federation’s commitment to regional cooperation.

“St. Kitts and Nevis, of course, was approached by the United States as other CARICOM countries, and we took a very proactive approach sitting with the Americans to reach an arrangement that is in keeping with our principles,” the Prime Minister said.

The initiative reflects shifts in U.S. immigration enforcement, where the current administration has intensified deportations, including for minor infractions such as visa overstays and traffic violations.

Richie Stephens honors icon Jimmy Cliff with roots, rock, reggae version of ‘Trapped

Following his standout performance at the Official Celebration of Life for Jimmy Cliff, held recently at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston, Richie Stephens has officially released a studio cover of Cliff’s song “Trapped,” which debuted today.

‘Trapped’ was a go-to song for Stephens more than four decades ago when he launched his career on the hotel north coast circuit.

“I started my career in 1982 when I left school,” Stephens recalled. “About 1984, ‘Trapped’ was released by Mr. Bruce Springsteen. The song quickly became more than just a crowd-pleaser for me when I performed on the hotel circuit,” Stephens shared.

“After learning and singing the song, it became my go-to song when I needed a forward or needed to hear the crowd scream or get a standing ovation,” he said. “I would say ‘Trapped’ is the song that solidified me as a bonafide singer.”

Stephens said his bond with the song only deepened over time.

“People used to tell me I have the perfect vocals to deliver ‘Trapped.’ I have always enjoyed singing it,” he shared. “And because the song had so much energy; the way I delivered it was incredible. I just loved it ever since and have now made it my own.”

While many fans associate ‘Trapped’ primarily with Bruce Springsteen’s iconic rock rendition, Stephens is keen to highlight its deeper roots.

“One of the reasons why the song was so successful is that it was on the iconic We Are the World album, which features so many pop icons and the biggest artists in the world, including the King of Pop, Michael Jackson,” Stephens shared.

‘Trapped’ achieved significant commercial success, reaching #1 on the Billboard Top Rock Tracks chart in 1985. The We Are the World benefit album reportedly sold millions of copies and won several Grammy Awards.

In reimagining the iconic track, Richie said he was deliberate about preserving its essence.

“The way Bruce Springsteen covered the song as a rock star, he incorporated the rock element and made it into such a big song,” he said. “So even though I gave it the Jamaican flavor to make it into a reggae song, I wanted to maintain the same hard-hitting rock approach. I kept some of the iconic melodies in the rhythm, such as the part at the beginning,” he explained. “We also kept the heavy guitar to give it the roots, rock, reggae flavor.”

Producing the track at the legendary Tuff Gong Studios in Kingston, Stephens said he made careful musical choices.

“Choosing Tuff Gong Studio was symbolic as well as sonic. It does not get more legendary than Bob Marley, the King of Reggae. This was where he recorded music for many years. The legacy of Marley will live forever,” he said.

“Tuff Gong is also one of the best-sounding studios anywhere in the world for reggae music, and the engineers there are very experienced.”

For the ‘Trapped’ project, Richie brought together an all-star lineup of Jamaican heavyweights, including Kirk Bennett on drums; Welch on bass; Dean ‘Cannon’ Fraser and his crew on horns; Othniel Lewis on keyboard; Con on rhythm guitar; and overdub musicians like Monty on guitar, who performed a solo on the track, Stephens detailed.

He also highlighted the strength of the background vocals and the production team.

“You have the great Tammi T (Tamekia Moncrieffe-Whittaker), who sang with Jimmy Cliff, and her brother Clive on background vocals. We also have the great Marvin Jackson, ‘Waco,’ who helped to record the song, and Roland, the master engineer who recorded and mixed the track.”

With ‘Trapped,’ Stephens delivers more than a cover. The song is a personal statement that honors the song’s legacy. It is both a return and a reaffirmation. As Richie puts it, “‘Trapped’ is a song that defines Jimmy Cliff’s legacy then and now.”

Miami-Dade begins revoking fraudulent disabled parking permits

Miami-Dade disabled parking

The Miami-Dade Tax Collector’s Office has begun revoking disabled parking permits obtained fraudulently, officials announced Thursday.

County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez announced in December that his office was auditing every disabled parking permit and temporary permit application filed in the last 24 months in partnership with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

“Every disabled parking permit application is an official state document. The law is clear and unmistakable. Knowingly providing false information on an application or medical certification is a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable under sections 775.082 and 775.083, Florida Statutes, by up to one year in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both. Any person who fraudulently obtains or unlawfully displays a disabled parking permit that does not belong to them, or who uses an unauthorized replica with intent to deceive, commits a second-degree misdemeanor. These are criminal acts, not technical errors,” Fernandez said in a December news release.

Fernandez added that widespread abuse of the system has hurt seniors, veterans, and residents with legitimate mobility disabilities. “A system created to protect the most vulnerable has been exploited for too long. That ends now,” he said last month.

Letters are now being sent to individuals whose permits have been revoked, Fernandez announced Thursday.

According to the Tax Collector’s Office, the letters make clear that permits are no longer valid and must be surrendered immediately. “In addition, you may also be prohibited from obtaining a disabled persons parking permit for a period of four (4) years. Continued use of the parking permit in your possession may result in up to one year in jail or a fine of $1,000, or both.”

Fernandez said audits are ongoing, and some cases may be referred for prosecution where appropriate

Broward Sheriff’s sergeant arrested on multiple domestic violence charges

Broward Sheriff's

A veteran Broward Sheriff’s Office sergeant was arrested Wednesday night on multiple domestic violence charges, officials said Thursday.

Sgt. Scott Nida, 54, faces charges including false imprisonment, domestic battery by strangulation, and touch or strike battery, according to BSO.

Deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in Pompano Beach, where they made contact with Nida and the female victim involved in a verbal and physical altercation.

According to officials, the victim said Nida grabbed her arm when she tried to leave the home, then seized her face and neck, making it difficult for her to breathe. She said he pushed her to the ground and dragged her across the lawn.

When she managed to free herself, the victim ran toward her vehicle in an attempt to escape. She said Nida followed her, pushed her into the passenger seat, and drove away until she convinced him to let her go. The victim sustained injuries to her face and neck.

Nida, who joined BSO in January 2005, was booked into jail and has been placed on administrative leave without pay.

“Domestic violence is unacceptable especially from someone who is sworn to uphold the law,” Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony said in a statement. “When a sworn member is accused of this type of crime, they are held to the same standards as any member of the public.”

Mayor Higgins weighs Miami’s ICE deal: ‘No matter what your status, you should feel safe’

Eileen Higgins Miami

Immigration policy was among the issues raised Thursday as Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins presided over her first City of Miami Commission meeting and weighed in on the city’s 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The 287(g) program, established under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, allows local law enforcement agencies to enter into formal agreements with ICE that delegate limited federal immigration enforcement authority to trained local officers under ICE supervision.

The City of Miami Commission narrowly approved its participation in a Section 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on June 17, 2025, in a 3–2 vote. Other South Florida cities, including Hialeah, Doral, Davie, and Pompano Beach, have also adopted 287(g) agreements.

Higgins acknowledged the issue and stressed caution in how Miami approaches the partnership.

“That was not a requirement legally for this city to do. Now that they’ve entered that agreement, it’s difficult to unwind so I certainly will look into it, but in the meantime, I just want our residents to know no matter what your status, you should feel safe,” Higgins said.

On Thursday, Higgins presided over her first commission meeting since her mayoral victory, a moment she described as the dawn of a fresh chapter for Miami.

“It really feels like a new day in Miami and we got a lot of things accomplished,” said Higgins.

She opened the session promising to bring civility to local government and to work constructively with commissioners on district priorities.

“It’s an honor to work with all of you and I look very much forward to collaborating with you on your priorities for your districts,” said Higgins.

The meeting also marked a historic milestone — it was the first commission session presided over by a female mayor in the city’s history.

While her work has only just begun, Higgins said she remains focused on delivering on key campaign promises, especially improving the efficiency and performance of city services.

“My goal is to do what I promised to do during the election, which is make city services work better for the residents,” said Higgins.

During the meeting, Higgins listened to residents who expressed frustration over bureaucratic delays. She also proposed appointing James Reyes as the city’s new manager.

“I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work with him, see his leadership in action,” said Higgins.

The commission approved Reyes’ appointment on a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Ralph Rosado dissenting.

“I can not imagine a more rewarding experience than being able to serve this community,” said Reyes.

Reyes, who spent most of his career with the Broward Sheriff’s Office and Miami-Dade Corrections and previously ran for Miami-Dade sheriff, currently lives in Broward. His role as city manager will come with an annual salary of $475,000 — a figure that drew some criticism from commissioners.

Reyes defended the compensation, saying his transition to municipal leadership comes with personal sacrifices.

“I’m making sacrifices even with that salary, leaving my career that I have behind. That career in public service, particularly in the state of Florida, leads to a certain benefit, obviously, that I am sacrificing continuing in order to come to the City of Miami that doesn’t offer the same type of benefits,” said Reyes.

Reyes’ first day as city manager is scheduled for Monday.

Miami healthcare execs convicted in $34 million Medicare Advantage fraud

sentenced

Two Miami-based healthcare executives have been convicted in a federal court for orchestrating a wide-ranging Medicare Advantage fraud scheme that exploited elderly beneficiaries and resulted in roughly $34 million in fraudulent claims.

A federal jury in Miami on December 22 found Michael Kochen, 42, and Sandro Herek, 56, guilty of multiple fraud and kickback-related charges stemming from a scheme involving medically unnecessary durable medical equipment, including back, knee, shoulder, and ankle braces. Prosecutors said more than $17 million was ultimately paid out by Medicare Advantage plans based on the false claims.

According to evidence presented at trial, the defendants used deceptive and aggressive telemarketing tactics to pressure senior citizens into accepting medical braces they did not need and, in some cases, explicitly declined. Kochen owned dozens of companies that sold durable medical equipment, while Herek managed overseas call centers, including operations in Egypt, that carried out the cold-calling campaign. Beneficiaries were repeatedly contacted, even after initial refusals, and were misled into believing the equipment would be provided at no cost.

Investigators also revealed that physicians frequently approved brace prescriptions without conducting proper medical evaluations. In many cases, doctors relied solely on call recordings rather than speaking directly with patients, and when conversations did occur, they were often brief and lacked any meaningful assessment of medical necessity. Prosecutors said Kochen paid illegal kickbacks to telemedicine companies in exchange for these prescriptions, which were then used to justify fraudulent Medicare Advantage claims.

“This case was simple at its core,” U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones said in a statement. “The defendants exploited trust and age, using pressure tactics and fake medical justifications to push unnecessary equipment onto elderly patients who deserved better.”

Kochen was convicted on charges including conspiracy to commit healthcare and wire fraud, multiple counts of healthcare fraud, conspiracy to pay and receive kickbacks, and substantive kickback violations. Herek was convicted of conspiracy to commit healthcare and wire fraud, healthcare fraud, conspiracy to receive kickbacks, and multiple kickback-related offenses.

Both men face significant prison time. The conspiracy to commit healthcare and wire fraud charge alone carries a maximum sentence of 20 years, with additional penalties tied to the remaining convictions. Sentencing is scheduled for March 25, when a federal judge will determine the final punishment after reviewing sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the FBI’s Miami Field Office, with the prosecution handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida.

Why Taj Krishna in Hyderabad is the ultimate choice for travellers

Taj Krishna

The lively capital of Telangana, Hyderabad, is a city that combines its rich history with modern growth with ease. It has iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and business hubs that appeal to both leisure and business travellers. A leading luxury hotel Taj Krishna Hyderabad, in Banjara Hills is at the centre of the vibrant city and offers world-class facilities, luxurious rooms, and easy access to all attractions and fine dining experiences. Whether it is visiting the historic Charminar or enjoying the city’s various cuisines, there is something for everyone.

The Top Reasons to Plan Your Stay at Taj Krishna in Hyderabad

The city of culture, food, and business, Hyderabad as it is a place with a unique mix of tradition and modernity hard to find elsewhere. Taj Krishna Hyderabad is an exclusive out-of-town resort that blends comfort and global service, making one’s stay memorable.

  1. Prime Location: Taj Krishna Hyderabad is ideally located in the centre of Banjara Hills, which is one of the most high-end neighbourhoods in the city. Visitors have easy access to major business centres, shopping areas, and cultural attractions. The hotel presents unparalleled convenience whether one is in Hyderabad for business meetings or leisure. Its strategic location means it is closest to the city’s main attractions, making it the best destination for first-time visitors and experienced travellers seeking comfort and efficiency in one place.
  2. Luxury and Elegance: Taj Krishna is a grand hotel from the moment you walk in. The hotel’s design and structure blend modern and classic styles, creating a very friendly and luxurious environment. Large rooms with quality facilities guarantee the highest level of comfort for their guests, and individual preferences are catered to through personal services. Every detail has been taken into account, as every corner of the building, including the lobby and suites, offers an excellent luxury haven where relaxation, style, and comfort are seamlessly combined to create a memorable stay.
  3. Extraordinary Food: It provides a great culinary experience through its restaurants and lounges. Tourists can feast on traditional Hyderabadi specialities, international dishes, and new cuisines prepared by professional chefs. The hotel serves a wide range of food and tastes and accommodates every occasion, including casual meals. It has its flagship restaurants, which offer an ideal location for business lunch or dinner, romance, or family meetings. Fresh food, fancy service and attentive service make any meal a memory of your visit.
  4. Large and Comfortable Rooms: Taj Krishna has rooms and suites which are not only all about accommodation but also a place of comfort. All the rooms are perfectly furnished and adorned to look luxurious with comfortable bedding, modern technology, and good working areas as well as high-speed internet (Wi-Fi). Moreover, the large windows offer magnificent city or garden views, creating a relaxing atmosphere. These carefully designed areas are bound to make the stay in business or leisure not only relaxing but luxurious, as guests will feel pampered once they walk into the establishment.
  5. Perfect for Business Travellers: Taj Krishna Hyderabad is a perfect place to stay when it comes to corporate customers. The hotel has advanced meeting rooms, conference halls and boardrooms that help in the smooth running of business. Fast internet, modern audiovisual equipment, and accommodating service staff make each meeting or event a success. The proximity to the city’s financial and IT centres, and its convenient location in Banjara Hills, also enables fast access to the city and, as such, makes it a convenient and luxurious place to stay for professionals who value working in comfort and relaxation.
  6. Cultural and Heritage Vibes: The hotel is designed and styled in a manner that adopts the traditions of Hyderabad. Complex architectural designs, artistry, and decor that resemble local cultural types provide guests with a taste of what the city has to offer without leaving the premises. This combination of luxury and cultural elements offers an immersive experience hard to find elsewhere. Visitors may take strolls through well-designed gardens or watch modern design, and the fusion of Hyderabadi culture makes their experience not only comfortable but also culturally fascinating and visually appealing.
  7. 7. Recreational and Family-Friendly: Taj Krishna is an ideal place to visit for families that travel to Hyderabad. The hotel offers kid-friendly facilities, spacious rooms that can accommodate families, and recreational facilities. Moreover, the property offers amenities for fun and comfort, including safe play areas, kid-friendly events, and relaxing lounges for adults. However, by emphasising a memorable experience, family members can spend quality time together in a luxurious setting, and it is not just a time spent but also a pleasant vacation.
  8. Large Leisure and Wellness Centres: From the calm swimming pool and fitness centre to the refreshing spa services, each facility fosters relaxation and well-being. Free time will allow tourists to relax in serene gardens and natural-themed surroundings or take walks around the compound. Taj Krishna provides an ideal place to rest for those who can balance between business and relaxation. Its wellness and recreation programs are holistic additions that enhance guests’ experience, leaving them with a revitalised, refreshed feeling.
  9. Security and Comfort: Taj Krishna implements high-level security measures to ensure the safety of guests and staff through a comprehensive security system and proper maintenance. The hotel offers secure access points for surveillance, ensuring each customer feels safe and comfortable during their visit. This guarantee is complemented by comfort, making it a reliable option for families, business travellers, and international tourists. Guests can enjoy their stay without concern for safety or privacy, as the environment is reassuring.

Final Words

To sum up, it is the best destination in all aspects for offering the traveller a combination of elegance, comfort and personalised service. Whether it is the beautifully furnished rooms, the global cuisine, or the best facilities, every detail in Taj Krishna Hyderabad is developed to make the journey memorable. It is situated in Banjara Hills, a prime location convenient for both business and leisure. Book a stay at Taj Krishna Hyderabad if you want to experience this city in a traditional yet comfortable way will certainly not forget their stay.

PM Holness on geopolitical tensions: ‘My job is to keep Jamaica safe, not invite problems’

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness

Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness said on Wednesday that he prays daily for Jamaica as the country navigates uncertain times, stressing that his responsibility is to safeguard the nation and avoid unnecessary risks.

Speaking at Jamaica’s National Day of Prayer on January 7, Holness described the current moment as one of “changing times, uncertain times, uncharted waters in many instances,” adding that his role as steward of the nation is “to keep Jamaica safe, not to steer into waters for which we don’t have to go … Not to invite problems on ourselves when we have our own problems to deal with,” he said.

He noted that Jamaica’s cautious approach does not represent a retreat from principles or responsibilities.

“This is not us recoiling from our principles and duties. Jamaica has always been consistent, and we have always been a strong voice of reason for small developing countries globally, and we continue to be,” Holness said.

He emphasized that Jamaica’s positions on international issues are long-standing and carefully considered. “Persons who comment on these issues would only need to do a cursory review to see the positions that Jamaica has taken and continues to take. Jamaica has already taken its position long before others would have sought to enunciate what they believe is the correct position.”

Holness expressed gratitude for divine guidance in steering the country through “turbulent geopolitical and geoeconomic times,” promising to continue navigating challenges skillfully and responsibly. “We have navigated those waters very carefully, very skillfully, and we will bring the ship of the Jamaican state to the destination of prosperity for which God has ordained,” he said.

Holness’s remarks were likely influenced by recent regional developments that have heightened uncertainty in the Caribbean. In early January, a dramatic U.S. military operation in Venezuela resulted in the capture and removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, an action that has had ripple effects across the region. The operation prompted temporary airspace closures and disrupted flights across much of the eastern Caribbean.

At the same time, heightened U.S. immigration policy and visa measures have stirred debate and concern across several Caribbean nations. Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica were added to a U.S. list requiring some travelers to post visa bonds of up to US$15,000, part of a series of new requirements tied to broader U.S. immigration and security policy that has drawn criticism from regional leaders and analysts.

Shortly thereafter, the United States reached a deal with both countries to begin sending certain foreign nationals seeking U.S. asylum to the small island nations.

In a press release issued following his remarks, Prime Minister Holness emphasized that Jamaica is operating “in a complex global environment characterized by instability and overlapping crises that require steady leadership and careful decision-making.”

Why Saint Lucia is one of the Caribbean’s most romantic escape

An island that appeals effortlessly to all five senses, Saint Lucia has long been celebrated as one of the Caribbean’s most romantic destinations. Emerald rainforests cascade toward turquoise seas, the scent of salt and tropical blooms hangs in the air, and the twin Pitons rise dramatically from the coastline, creating a setting where intimacy feels natural and unforced.

Romance here is inseparable from the landscape. Couples can unwind in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Sulphur Springs in Soufrière, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano, before rinsing off beneath nearby waterfalls hidden in the rainforest. Secluded beaches—many reachable only by boat—offer a sense of privacy that feels increasingly rare, while sunset cruises along the island’s calm west coast deliver uninterrupted views as the Pitons glow at golden hour.

Where couples choose to stay often defines the experience, and Saint Lucia offers some of the Caribbean’s most distinctive romantic accommodations:

  • Jade Mountain — Famous for its open-air sanctuaries, each designed without a fourth wall, featuring sweeping views of the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea, paired with private infinity pools.

  • Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort — Nestled on a pristine white-sand beach between the Pitons, offering luxury villas, beachfront cottages, and excellent snorkeling in calm, clear waters.

  • Ladera Resort — A dramatic cliffside retreat above Soufrière, with suites built from local stone and hardwoods, blending rustic elegance with total seclusion.

  • Calabash Cove Resort & Spa — An intimate, adults-only boutique resort near Castries, known for its tranquil setting, personalized service, and relaxed sophistication.

  • Ti Kaye Resort & Spa — A hillside hideaway overlooking Anse Cochon, offering private cottages, a laid-back atmosphere, and an authentic connection to island life.

Beyond the resorts, Saint Lucia encourages couples to slow down and reconnect. Farm-to-table dining highlights local ingredients such as green fig, cocoa, and fresh seafood, while private beach dinners and treetop restaurants turn evenings into memorable experiences. For more active travelers, rainforest hikes, snorkeling in marine reserves, and sailing excursions offer shared adventure, balanced by spa rituals inspired by volcanic minerals and local traditions.

From honeymoons and Valentine’s Day escapes to milestone anniversaries and spontaneous romantic getaways, Saint Lucia continues to stand out for couples seeking more than just a beautiful backdrop. It offers a rare balance of indulgence, authenticity, and natural intimacy—romance that feels immersive, restorative, and deeply tied to the island itself.

PM Holness hails Maroon legacy, pledges deeper state support for Accompong

Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to Jamaica’s Maroon communities, pledging sustained investment and expanded post–Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts in Accompong, St. Elizabeth.

Addressing the 288th commemoration of the 1738 Treaty between the Leeward Maroons and the British, as well as the birthday of Chief Kojo, on Tuesday, January 6, the Prime Minister stressed that Maroon communities are an integral part of the Jamaican state.

“You are part of Jamaica and you are entitled to the protection and resources of the State of Jamaica,” Dr. Holness said.

Reflecting on the historical significance of the Maroons, the Prime Minister said their legacy represents not only survival but victory, noting that Jamaica is among the few countries whose ancestors compelled the British to sign a treaty.

“When people hear about Jamaica and they hear about the Maroons, they see a side of us that is not just about enslavement. It is also about resistance… that Jamaicans forced the English to sign a treaty,” he said.

Dr. Holness acknowledged that Maroon communities have not always received adequate investment but said this is now being addressed.

“It is also true that for many decades we have not invested as we should have in these communities… but the Government of Jamaica supports the Maroon communities. We see you as an invaluable asset,” he added, praising the leadership structures within the communities as critical to nation-building and cultural preservation.

The Prime Minister also used the occasion to outline the Government’s post-hurricane recovery plans for Accompong, noting that support will extend beyond roof repairs to include the restoration of key infrastructure.

“The intervention of the Government will not only be to repair your roofs,” he said. “We’re going to look at your water situation… there was a water supply system that somehow fell out of use. We’re going to restore that.”

He further pledged to upgrade the community’s playing field, committing that by his next visit for the annual commemoration, the facility would be improved.

Technical teams from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) are already carrying out roof repairs in the community. Dr. Holness said the current phase of works is expected to be completed within weeks, after which further assessments will be conducted to determine whether additional repairs can be undertaken, including assistance for homes that were completely destroyed.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the resilience and cultural strength of the Maroon communities and the wider Jamaican society.

“We have a rich culture, and all our ancestors, those who struggled and fought, they did it so that we would become strong and resilient and united,” she said.

Referencing the impact of Hurricane Melissa on October 28, Grange pointed to visible signs of renewal within Accompong.

“I see the plants, the trees are getting green again, so it means that we will be getting stronger and we will rebuild and we will be resilient,” she said, while underscoring the national motto, Out of Many, One People.

Also participating in the ceremony were Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Science, Technology and Special Projects, Dr. the Hon. Andrew Wheatley; Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon; and Minister of State in the Education Ministry, Rhoda Moy Crawford.

The day’s activities included cultural performances, drumming, libations, reflections on Maroon history and leadership, and national participation, highlighting the enduring contribution of the Maroons to Jamaica’s heritage and sovereignty.

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