Business
President Obama met with Caribbean leaders in a U.S.-CARICOM Summit
President Obama met with Caribbean leaders in a U.S.-CARICOM Summit in Kingston, Jamaica. President Obama reaffirmed the importance of our relationship with the region, and the United States’ commitment to partner with Caribbean countries to advance economic development, security, and good governance. Leaders discussed a broad range of issues, from our important trade and investment linkages to security cooperation.
The leaders’ discussion focused on the importance of improving energy security, reducing energy costs, and fighting climate change. This follows robust engagement on these issues over the last year, including the White House Caribbean Energy Security Summit hosted by the Vice President in January 2015 and the launch of the Caribbean Energy Security Initiative (CESI) coordinated by the Department of State. The United States is deepening this collaboration through the following initiatives:
Clean Energy Finance Facility for the Caribbean and Central American (CEFF-CCA): The United States will launch a $20 million facility to encourage investment in clean energy projects. The facility will provide early-stage funding to catalyze greater private and public sector investment in clean energy projects. It will draw on the expertise of the U.S. Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) in coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Department of State.
Energy Security Task Force: The United States will partner with Caribbean and Central American countries in a task force to evaluate progress in our cooperation and identify concrete steps to advance energy sector reform, regional integration, and clean energy development.
Clean Energy Finance: In January, OPIC formed a dedicated financing and insurance team to advance development of the Caribbean renewable energy sector. OPIC is in advanced talks to finance a 20 MW solar farm in Jamaica, and has already committed financing to Jamaica’s largest private-sector wind farm, a 36 MW facility in Malvern, St. Elizabeth Parish. OPIC is actively looking for opportunities to support solar and wind energy projects in Jamaica and throughout the broader Caribbean region.
Clean Energy Technology Collaboration: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Jamaica’s Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy, and Mining signed a statement of intent today to advance our shared interest in sustainable energy. Areas for potential cooperation include energy conservation and efficiency, energy infrastructure, micro grids and energy storage, fuel diversification, and energy policy.
Clean Energy Economy Transition: The Department of Energy assembled U.S. and Caribbean stakeholder working groups to look at opportunities ranging from clean energy, efficiency, diversifying electricity generation, clean transportation and energy education, at the Caribbean Clean Energy Technology Symposium, held in St. Thomas in March. The working groups will report on progress at the 2016 Symposium to be hosted by Jamaica. Also, the Department of Energy will launch a new Energy Scenario Planning Tool¸ building on its Energy Transitions: Island Playbook, to help island communities plan clean energy projects that are most likely to attract investment, capitalize on local resources, and meet energy needs.
Greening Tourism: The tourism industry is the largest energy user in the Caribbean. The Department of Energy, with its Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and OPIC are undertaking the Caribbean Hotel Energy Efficiency and Renewables (CHEER) initiative, which supports projects to improve energy and water efficiency as well as the exchange of best practices in the hotel and tourism industry. USAID is launching a complementary project focused on the Eastern Caribbean that will develop new financing tools for energy efficiency and renewables.
Jamaica Clean Energy Program: USAID is working with the Government of Jamaica and the private sector on a new integrated Clean Energy Program to establish the pre-conditions for clean energy development, optimize renewable energy integration, and accelerate private-sector clean energy investment.
Photo of U.S.-CARICOM Summit:
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News continues its celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month by spotlighting another Hispanic leader within its network — Managing Editor Monica Hoyos, a proud first-generation Colombian American whose professional journey reflects her passion for communication, cultural connection, and community empowerment.
A Career Built on Connection and Communication
Monica holds a B.A. in Communications and Spanish from Old Dominion University and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in TESOL from George Mason University. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to bridging language and cultural gaps as both a professional interpreter and voiceover actor, bringing clarity and authenticity to English and Spanish audiences alike.
In 2025, Monica joined Florida National News as Managing Editor, Reporter, and Co-Host of the FNN News Podcast en Español, where she uplifts diverse voices through storytelling, interviews, and press coverage that reflect the heart of the Hispanic community.
Empowering Communities Through Leadership
Beyond her work with FNN, Monica serves as an Independent Contractor, working as Lead Project Manager for Esther Wise Community Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and as Senior Project Manager for Aravicta, a minority- and women-owned business offering professional speaking, coaching, and communication training for leaders and executives.
In both roles, Monica leverages her leadership and expertise to strengthen community initiatives, create inclusive programs, and promote representation for underrepresented voices across various industries.
Celebrating Heritage and Representation
Monica embraces her Colombian heritage with pride and purpose. She views Hispanic Heritage Month as both a celebration and a responsibility.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor our roots while celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of our community,” said Hoyos. “I carry my family’s journey and culture with me in every role I take on, and I’m committed to opening doors for others to do the same.”
Through her work, Monica continues to embody the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month — honoring her roots, connecting cultures, and empowering others to raise their voices.
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News TV Talks Real Estate welcomes special guest Lawrence Bedillo, President of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association (ORRA), for an in-depth discussion on Florida’s housing market and the latest trends shaping homeownership this fall.
Market Insight:
A recent Realtor.com study identifies October 12–18, 2025, as the best week to buy a home this year. During this key period, buyers can expect more listings, lower prices, and reduced competition. According to the report, homebuyers could save over $15,000 compared to peak summer prices as inventory rises and homes stay on the market longer.
Expert Perspective:
In the exclusive video interview, ORRA President Lawrence Beillo shares his insights on what this means for Central Florida buyers and sellers, offering valuable advice on navigating the market, preparing for purchases, and making informed decisions during this ideal buying window.
Watch the full video interview with ORRA President Lawrence Beillo on the Florida National News TV platform and Facebook channels.
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Hospitality entrepreneur and “Bar Rescue” host Jon Taffer has announced the official grand opening of Taffer’s Tavern Orlando on Wednesday, October 15. Located along International Drive, the debut marks the franchise’s first Florida location and introduces a refreshed design, reimagined menu, and immersive brand experience that Taffer calls the blueprint for the brand’s national expansion.
FNN Good News & Reviews is set to capture the one-of-a-kind experience as hospitality mogul Jon Taffer brings his Taffer’s Tavern franchise to Orlando with a highly anticipated grand opening on October 15, on I-Drive. The new tavern unveils a reimagined menu, spirit-infused sauces, and an exclusive lineup of signature cocktails, highlighted by Taffer’s own Browned Butter Bourbon.
A New Era for Taffer’s Tavern
Franchisee Nilesh Patel, a seasoned hospitality operator, brings the Orlando location to life in one of the city’s busiest entertainment districts. Just steps away from hotels, convention centers, and attractions, the tavern is positioned to welcome a mix of locals, tourists, and business travelers.
“Orlando is the perfect city to debut Taffer’s Tavern in Florida,” Patel said. “With its energy, diversity, and constant flow of visitors, it’s an ideal backdrop for the elevated tavern experience Jon has created.”
Elevated Comfort Food with Spirit-Infused Flavors
Inspired by traditional Old World pubs, Taffer’s Tavern features bold comfort food crafted with modern flair. Spirit-forward sauces developed with Taffer’s spirits portfolio infuse familiar dishes with innovative flavor. Menu highlights include:
Bourbon Burger – Browned Butter Bourbon sauce, glazed caramelized onions, whiskey bacon, cheddar, brioche bun ($17.95)
Hangover Wings – Twice-cooked chicken wings with flavors like michelada, tequila lime, and cinnamon whiskey ($12.95)
Whiskey Business Burger – Whiskey ketchup, bacon, arugula, fried egg, provolone, American cheese, brioche bun ($18.95)
Salted Caramel Triple Chocolate Brownie – Served with house-made honey bourbon ice cream and spiced rum caramel ($13.95)
Jon Taffer’s Vision for Expansion
Taffer says Orlando will serve as the model for future franchises. “This expansion into Orlando is more than just launching another location—it’s the blueprint for the future of Taffer’s Tavern,” he explained. “We’ve built a model that’s smarter, stronger, and designed to scale. Orlando is a natural fit for our brand, a city that thrives on energy, excitement, and hospitality.”
In addition to its food menu, the tavern features proprietary cocktails built around Taffer’s Browned Butter Bourbon, a whiskey with bold vanilla and toffee notes, inspired by Taffer’s work on “Bar Rescue.”
For reservations and franchise opportunities, visit tafferstavern.com.
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