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10
Sep/Oct 2019
9 Devastated by Dorian, here is some good news about the Bahamas:
September 15th - October 15th During National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) we recognize the contributions made and the important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and celebrate their heritage and culture. Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuriesold traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their community. Hispanic Heritage Month, whose roots go back to 1968, begins each year on September 15, the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize also celebrate their independence days during this period and Columbus Day (DĂa de la Raza) is October 12. Today, 57.5 million people or 18% of the American population are of Hispanic or Latino origin. Share in this special annual tribute by learning and celebrating the generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.
While the slow-moving nature of Hurricane Dorian caused unspeakable destruction in Grand Bahama and Abaco, business is fully operational in Nassau - the second-most populated cruise destination in the Caribbean – and a host of private islands. Additionally, the rapid response of the Bahamas, neighboring destinations, and many organizations both in Florida and across the country have worked to give the Bahamas a jump start as far as recovery and restoration go. Countries across the Caribbean have already pledged their support, both financially and otherwise, to the relief of the Bahamas following the
damage caused by this unprecedented storm. Ms. Dorine Gustave, Acting Director of Saint Lucia's National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), said Saint Lucia is in the process of determining how best to help, including finding the best way to transport water, and the the Government of Saint Lucia has set up accounts at selected banks for those that wish to assist with recovery efforts. Saint Lucia Prime Minister and CARICOM Chairman Hon. Allen continued on pg 8
