GREEN, gold and black - colours of the Jamaican flag - will cover the Empire State Building in New York City between August 6 and 8 to mark Jamaica's 42nd year of independence

The Jamaican flag will also be flown on the 6th floor of the 5th Avenue entrance of the Empire State Building, one of the United States' most well-known landmarks.

What originally began as a request from Josh Williams, a Jamaican who works for the Empire State Building Management Company, and which was endorsed by community relations officer Janet Madden from the Jamaican Consulate in New York, has led to the occurrence of this event for the second straight year.

Madden, in an interview with JIS News, expressed her gratitude to Lydia Ruth, director of public relations and special events coordinator for the Empire State Building Management Company, and also to Williams.

"Miss Ruth has assisted us with this endeavour for the past two years and we are indeed grateful that people here in New York and New Jersey, and especially the Jamaicans who reside in this area, and indeed across the entire United States, will be able to view this landmark as it pays tribute to Jamaica," Madden said.

"Though Mr Williams now lives and works in New York, his patriotism and efforts to recognise his country are to be heralded. We are very proud that a part of our heritage will be on display for all to see and I encourage Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica to view the landmark August 6 to 8," said Madden.

Minister Grange tours new BBC studios

Guinness Sounds of Greatness creating a dancehall for everyone

Tarrus Riley shoots video for Start Anew