Posts Tagged ‘Jamaica’

ibex Sponsors Outsource2Jamaica Conference 2023

Octavia McIntosh of ibex Jamaica to Join Panel Discussion

ibex Sponsors Outsource2Jamaica Conference 2023
The event is taking place from May 10-11 in St. James, Jamaica.

CARIBPR WIRE, KINGSTON, Jamaica, May 10, 2023ibex (NASDAQ: IBEX), a leading global provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) and customer engagement technology solutions, today announced its sponsorship of the Outsource2Jamaica Conference 2023 in St. James, Jamaica, May 10-11, 2023. In addition, ibex Senior Director of Talent Acquisition Octavia McIntosh will participate in the Destination Dialogue Panel to discuss Jamaica’s potential as a hub for the global services sector.

“As a global leader and innovator in delivering customer experience (CX) solutions geared for the digital-first marketplace, we are pleased to sponsor the Outsource2Jamaica Conference and support the growing outsourcing sector on the island,” said Tamara Ricketts-Brown, VP of Operations and Jamaica Country Manager, ibex. “Jamaica has earned a place as one of the top markets for BPOs around the globe. ibex views Jamaica as an excellent outsourcing market based on its well-educated English-speaking talent pool, robust infrastructure, and stable government. We continue to invest in growing our operations in Jamaica, where we currently have six sites and more than 7,500 employees.”

The Outsource2Jamaica Conference and Exposition, which is the largest event focused on Jamaica’s Global Services Sector (GSS), is presented by the (GSAJ). GSAJ is the leading representative body serving the Information, Communications Technology, Logistics Outsourcing and Business Process Outsourcing (Contact Center) sectors in Jamaica.

The theme for this year’s Outsource2Jamaica is “Ahead of the Curve”. The program is designed to showcase the resilience, growth and determination of this sector, illustrate how members in Jamaica have grown and pivoted, and promote Jamaica as the leading English-speaking outsourcing hub of the Caribbean.

“ibex is a long-standing and proud member of the GSAJ and will continue to be a champion in the effort to grow the outsourcing industry in Jamaica and bring higher value CX services and support opportunities to the island,” added Ricketts-Brown.

For more information about Outsource2Jaim, please visit https://outsource2jamaica.com/.

About ibex
ibex delivers innovative business process outsourcing (BPO), smart digital marketing, online acquisition technology, and end-to-end customer engagement solutions to help companies acquire, engage, and retain valuable customers. Today, ibex operates a global CX delivery center model consisting of 34 operations facilities around the world, while deploying next-generation technology to drive superior customer experiences for many of the world’s leading companies across retail, e-commerce, healthcare, fintech, utilities and logistics.

ibex leverages its diverse global team of over 30,000 employees together with industry-leading technology, including its Wave X platform, to manage nearly 200 million critical customer interactions, adding over $2.2B in lifetime customer revenue each year and driving a truly differentiated customer experience. To learn more, visit our website at ibex.co and connect with us on LinkedIn.

iBEX auspicia Conferencia Outsource2Jamaica 2023

Octavia McIntosh de IBEX Jamaica se une al panel de debate

CARIBPR WIRE, KINGSTON, Jamaica, May 10, 2023: ibex (NASDAQ: IBEX), un proveedor líder mundial de outsourcing de procesos empresariales (BPO) y soluciones de tecnología de participación del cliente, anunció hoy su auspicio de la Conferencia Outsource2Jamaica 2023 en St. James, Jamaica, del 10 al 11 de mayo de 2023. Además, la directora sénior de adquisición de talento de ibex, Octavia McIntosh, participará en el panel de debate de destinos para abordar el potencial de Jamaica como centro para el sector de servicios globales.

“Como líder mundial e innovador en ofrecer soluciones de experiencia del cliente (CX) orientadas al mercado digital, nos complace auspiciar la Conferencia Outsource2Jamaica y apoyar el creciente sector de outsourcing en la isla”, dijo Tamara Ricketts-Brown, vicepresidenta de operaciones y gerente de país de Jamaica para ibex. “Jamaica obtuvo un lugar como uno de los principales mercados para BPO en todo el mundo. ibex percibe a Jamaica como es un excelente mercado de outsourcing basado en su grupo de talentos de habla inglesa y bien educados, infraestructura sólida y gobierno estable. Continuamos invirtiendo en el crecimiento de nuestras operaciones en Jamaica, donde actualmente tenemos seis localidades y más de 7,500 empleados”.

La Conferencia y Exposición Outsource2Jamaica, que es el mayor evento centrado en el Sector de Servicios Globales (GSS) de Jamaica, es presentada por el (GSAJ). GSAJ es el organismo representativo líder dedicado a servir a los sectores de información, tecnología de comunicaciones, outsourcing de logística y outsourcing de procesos empresariales (Centro de Contacto) en Jamaica.

El tema de Outsource2Jamaica de este año es “Ahead of the Curve” (adelantarse a los acontecimientos). El programa está diseñado para demostrar la resiliencia, crecimiento y determinación de este sector, ilustrar cómo los miembros en Jamaica han crecido y pivotado, y promover a Jamaica como el principal centro de externalización de habla inglesa del Caribe.

“IBEX es un miembro orgulloso y de larga tradición del GSAJ y continuará siendo un campeón en el esfuerzo por avanzar el sector de outsourcing en Jamaica y ofrecer servicios de CX de mayor valor y oportunidades de soporte a la isla”, agregó Ricketts-Brown.

Para más información acerca de Outsource2Jaim, visite https://outsource2jamaica.com/.

Acerca de ibex
ibex ofrece outsourcing de procesos de negocios (BPO) innovadores, marketing digital inteligente, tecnología de adquisición en línea y soluciones de participación del cliente de extremo a extremo para ayudar a las empresas en la adquisición, participación y retención de clientes valiosos. Hoy, ibex opera un modelo de centro de entrega de experiencia del cliente (CX) global que consiste de 34 instalaciones de operaciones en todo el mundo, al mismo tiempo que implementa tecnología de última generación para promover experiencias superiores para el cliente para muchas de las empresas líderes mundiales en los sectores minorista, comercio electrónico, atención médica, tecnología financiera (fintech), servicios públicos y logística.

ibex aprovecha su diverso equipo global de más de 30.000 empleados junto con tecnología líder en el sector, incluyendo su plataforma Wave X, para la gestión de cerca de 200 millones de interacciones críticas con clientes, añadiendo más de $2.2 mil millones en ingresos vitalicios de clientes cada año e impulsando una experiencia de cliente verdaderamente diferenciada. Para más información, visite nuestro sitio web ibex.co y conéctese con nosotros en LinkedIn.

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LORD ASHCROFT POLLS: NEW CORONATION POLL FINDS LEAD FOR REPUBLIC IN ANTIGUA, BAHAMAS AND JAMAICA – OTHER CARIBBEAN NATIONS WOULD STAY WITH THE CROWN

LONDON, May 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ – Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas and Jamaica would vote to become republics in a referendum tomorrow, according to new research from Lord Ashcroft Polls. The other five countries in the Caribbean region where King Charles is head of state would choose to remain constitutional monarchies.

How countries where King Charles is head of state would vote tomorrow in a referendum on the monarchy – Lord Ashcroft Polls

Findings from the survey include:

  • More said they would vote for a republic than the monarchy in Antigua (by 47% to 45%), the Bahamas (by 51% to 27%) and Jamaica (by 49% to 40%). The remainder in each case said they didn’t know or would not vote.
  • More said they would vote to remain a constitutional monarchy than to become a republic in Belize (by 48% to 43%), Grenada (by 56% to 42%), St Kitts & Nevis (by 52% to 45%), St Lucia (by 56% to 39%) and St Vincent and The Grenadines (by 63% to 34%).
  • More than 75% of pro-republic voters in all 8 countries polled in the region said that becoming a republic would bring real, practical benefits. The remainder said the monarchy was wrong in principle and should be replaced whether there were practical benefits or not.
  • Most pro-republic voters in Jamaica and St Kitts said the monarchy had been good for their country in the past but makes no sense today. In the other 6 countries, most pro-republic voters said the monarchy should never have been part of how their country was governed.
  • In all 3 countries where more would vote for a republic than to keep the monarchy, majorities (53% in Antigua, 69% in the Bahamas, 75% in Jamaica) agreed that “in an ideal world we wouldn’t have the monarchy, but there are more important things for the country to deal with.”
  • Despite their “referendum” votes, majorities in Antigua (55%) and Jamaica (62%) agreed that the monarchy meant they had more stability in their country than they would have without it. With the exception of the Bahamas, majorities in all countries polled in the region agreed that the King can unite everyone no matter who they voted for, and that the royal family cares a lot about their particular country.
  • Asked to choose between two statements, people in Antigua, Belize, St Kitts, St Lucia and St Vincent were more likely to see the monarchy as a valuable force for stability and continuity; those in the Bahamas, Grenada and Jamaica were more likely to see it as part of a colonial past that has no place in their country today.
  • Majorities in all 8 countries polled in the region had a positive view of King Charles, except the Bahamas (38%).
  • In 7 of the 8 countries, most said the monarchy made them feel more rather than less warm towards the UK (people in the Bahamas were divided 50-50). Clear majorities in all 8 said that if their country became a republic they would want to remain part of the Commonwealth.
  • Aside from Antigua, the Bahamas and Jamaica, the polling found that voters in Australia, Canada and the Solomon Islands would vote to become republics if a referendum were held tomorrow.

4,077 adults were interviewed online in Antigua & Barbuda, the Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Jamaica, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia and St Vincent and The Grenadines in February and March 2023. A total of 22,701 adults were interviewed in the 15 countries in which King Charles is head of state. The full report, Uncharted Realms: The Future of the Monarchy in the UK and Around the World, together with full data for each country,is available for free at LordAshcroftPolls.com

LORD ASHCROFT KCMG PC is an international businessman, philanthropist, pollster and author. He is a former Deputy Chairman of the UK Conservative Party and honorary Chairman of the International Democrat Union. His recent political books include Going For Broke: The Rise of Rishi Sunak, First Lady: Intrigue at the Court of Carrie and Boris Johnson, and Red Knight: The Unauthorised Biography of Sir Keir Starmer.

LordAshcroftPolls.com //  LordAshcroft.com //  Twitter/Facebook: @LordAshcroft

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FROM CANE TO CUP – WORLD FIRST APPLETON ESTATE RUM BOUTIQUE OPENS AT JAMAICA’S SANGSTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, March 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Travelers flying from Jamaica’s busiest airport, Sangster International in Montego Bay, can now explore the world of APPLETON ESTATE Jamaica Rum in a new high-tech, premium boutique just opened in the airport’s main duty-free store.

FROM CANE TO CUP – WORLD FIRST APPLETON ESTATE RUM BOUTIQUE OPENS  AT JAMAICA’S SANGSTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

A world-first for the rum brand, the shop in shop takes shoppers on a self-guided, cane-to-cup journey into the heart of what makes APPLETON ESTATE such a unique Caribbean rum, seamlessly blending physical, multisensorial and digital elements. Customers navigate their way through the boutique via a series of interactive touchpoints that express the legend, craft and personality of the island’s iconic rum.

The latest APPLETON ESTATE release, Ruby Anniversary Edition, takes pride of place in the new Sangster store. Produced to celebrate Master Blender Joy Spence’s 40 years with the distillery, APPLETON ESTATE Ruby Anniversary Edition is a rich, complex blend of five rare rums, each aged for a minimum of 35 years, carefully chosen from Appleton Estate’s stock of over 200,000 sleeping barrels.

The distinctive insignia of APPLETON ESTATE, formed of five national symbols of Jamaica, is the central feature of the store’s physical experience. It has been brought to life as a stunning modernist 3D copper sculpture in the centre of the store; a magnet for shoppers to help them learn more about the brand’s origin and terroir.

The insignia is the starting point for the shopper’s digital journey within the boutique. Travelers can scan the front label of any bottle with their mobile device to discover a detailed description about the rum they have chosen, including individual tasting notes and a cane-to-cup explanation of the distillery’s production process narrated by APPLETON ESTATE Master Blender, Joy Spence, herself.

Highlights at the new APPLETON ESTATE Sangster store include:

  • A vibrant tasting bar. Expert brand ambassadors show travelers how to make delicious APPLETON ESTATE cocktails and lead guided tastings of its award-winning rum family that includes APPLETON ESTATE Signature, APPLETON ESTATE 8 Year Old Reserve, APPLETON ESTATE 12 Year Old Rare Casks, APPLETON ESTATE 15 Year Old Black River Casks and APPLETON ESTATE 21 Year Old Nassau Valley Casks.
  • Home cocktail-making ideas Travelers can use the personalized digital insignia guide on their phone or tablet to discover key APPLETON ESTATE serves and classic cocktails to make at home.
  • Personalized gift shopping. The shop’s brand ambassadors can create a personalised digital message for the giftee which can be accessed via a QR-code-enabled neck hanger on the purchased bottle of Appleton Estate 15 Year Old or 21 Year Old.

“We are thrilled to open the APPLETON ESTATE experience at Montego Bay Airport, just 50 miles from where our incredible rums are lovingly crafted,” said Marco Cavagnera, Managing Director of Global Travel Retail at Campari Group. “It’s a perfect premium location to engage shoppers by showcasing every facet of APPLETON ESTATE its rich history, passion for natural ingredients, local provenance, the skill of our Master Blender Joy Spence and the versatility of the award-winning portfolio created under her guidance, ensuring there is an APPLETON ESTATE rum for any elevated occasion, from premium cocktail-making to sipping rums.”

A global leader in premium aged rum, APPLETON ESTATE Rum is located just 50 miles from Montego Bay in Jamaica’s lush Nassau Valley. Aged APPLETON ESTATE Rums carry a prominent minimum age statement and Jamaican GI rum classification which guarantees no additives, ageing solely in Jamaica, and the use of pure, filtered limestone water in the production process.

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APPLETON ESTATE JAMAICA RUM ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF THE RUBY ANNIVERSARY EDITION, COMMEMORATING MASTER BLENDER JOY SPENCE’S FOUR DECADES AT THE DISTILLERY

The Ruby Anniversary Edition is a Luxurious Blend of 5 Exceptionally Rare Jamaica Rums Honoring Master Blender Spence’s 40 Years at Appleton Estate

ST. ELIZABETH, Jamaica, Jan. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Appleton Estate, a global leader in premium aged rums, is proud to announce the launch of Ruby AnniversaryEdition, a limited-edition release celebrating Master Blender Joy Spence’s 40 years of craftsmanship with the distillery. Ruby Anniversary Edition is an exclusive release unlike any before it in the brand’s 270-year history: it is a blend of 5 exceptionally rare Jamaica rums, aged for a minimum of 35 tropical years, and including rums as old as 45 years, resulting in a complex sipping rum like no other. With only 500 bottles available, this offer is a luxurious gem for rum lovers, a commemorative release for the first female Master Blender in the spirits industry, and a taste of decades of craftsmanship and dedication.

The Ruby Anniversary Edition is a limited-edition release celebrating Master Blender Joy Spence’s 40 years of craftsmanship with the distillery.

There can be only one woman to hold the title of “First Female Master Blender in the Spirits Industry,” and that woman is Joy Spence. Her trailblazing accomplishment is proof of her pioneering mindset and commitment to excellence in her work. An energetic, unbelievably skilled and deeply passionate force of nature, Joy has worked at Appleton Estate for four decades and proudly served as its Master Blender for nearly a quarter of a century, pouring her vast knowledge and perfectionism into every bottle of Jamaica’s most-celebrated rum. Joy’s unparalleled sensory skills, allowing her to detect the most delicate notes in her rums, are the crowning jewel of her dedication and expertise.

“Forty years ago, I had the opportunity to channel my passion, talent, and knowledge into a role at Appleton Estate,” recalls Spence. “I was honored to join one of the most revered world-class brands, in the place I call home. Forty years later,” Spence continues, “from luxury editions to permanent expressions, I am still immensely proud to continue to innovate and produce luxurious aged rums at the highest quality standards, suited for every occasion. Since 1981, my goal has been to create the world’s most exquisite, refined aged rums and to share them with the world. This special edition marks a milestone for me and was created using some of the finest stock in our over 200,000 barrels.”

Produced at the oldest continuously-operating rum distillery in Jamaica,  Ruby AnniversaryEdition is an exquisite blend of five hand-selected column and pot-still rums, crafted with Jamaican limestone-filtered water, with no added flavours, and aged in Jamaica – a taste of the excellence of the land and its people. Aged a minimum of 35 years, one of the charms of the Ruby Anniversary Edition is rooted in its strict ageing process. Each bottle contains liquid as old as 45 years and as young as 35 – a luxurious time capsule to taste the flavour of decades in the tropics. Due to Jamaica’s climate, Appleton Estate rums age nearly three times more quickly than spirits aged in cooler climates, allowing for richer, fuller flavors to develop in a shorter period of time – meaning that the minimum age of 35 years in the tropical climate of Jamaica is equivalent to over 100 years of ageing in a cooler climate, thanks to the significant loss of liquid by evaporation. “Heaven’s envy” is captured in the very limited quantity of liquid bottled for this release.

A truly unique collector’s item, Ruby Anniversary Edition is a true work of craftsmanship and expertise, an ode to the talent of iconic Master Blender Joy Spence. To mark such an occasion, a ritual must be encouraged for tasting. Best enjoyed neat or in a tulip-shaped Glencairn snifter, nosing the rum will announce the powerful aromas of cinnamon with minty orange bouquet. Next, airing the rum will reveal notes of delicate apple, overlaying rich vanilla, and continue with bursts of warm butterscotch, and rich coffee with toasted oak. Sipping this luxurious rum reveals on the palate with a delicate molasses and spicy honeyed taste. The finish is delicately smooth, with creamy dry oak– a complex sipping rum meant to be enjoyed slowly.

Appleton Estate Ruby AnniversaryEdition is a limited-edition release, with only 500 bottles available at the Joy Spence Appleton Estate Retail Rum Experience in Jamaica and at select premium retailers starting in January 2022.

For more information visit: www.appletonestate.com and www.camparigroup.com.

ABOUT APPLETON ESTATE
Nestled in the heart of Jamaica, in the beautiful, lush Nassau Valley lies the Appleton Estate. For over 265 years, we have been crafting authentic, premium rums using time honored traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. From cane to cocktail, our critically acclaimed rums are created by the environment, ingredients, and practices that are unique to our Estate. Our terroir, with its ideal climate, fertile soil and topography, the natural spring that supplies our water for fermentation, through to distillation, ageing and blending all combine to produce rums that are delicious and alive, vivid and deep with complex flavors and aromas.

The Appleton Estate rum collection includes the Signature rum, 8 Year Old Reserve rum, 12 Year Old Rare Casks rum, 15 Year Old Black River Casks rum and 21 Year Old Nassau Valley Casks rum.  Showcasing the Estate’s renowned aged rum inventory, limited edition offers, such as: 30 Year Old Jamaica rum and 50 Year Old Jamaican Independence Reserve.  Additionally, in 2017 Appleton Estate introduced Joy Anniversary Blend, a limited-edition 25 Year Old rum, to celebrate Joy Spence’s 20th Anniversary as the first female Master Blender in the spirits industry.

ABOUT THE CAMPARI GROUP
Campari Group is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. Campari Group was founded in 1860 and today is the sixth-largest player worldwide in the premium spirits industry. Campari Group’s portfolio, with over 50 brands, spans spirits (the core business), wines, and soft drinks. Its internationally-renowned brands include Aperol®, Appleton Estate®, Campari®, SKYY®, Wild Turkey®, and Grand Marnier®. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari Group owns 22 plants worldwide and has its own distribution network in 22 countries. Campari Group employs around 4,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano N.V. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), have been listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy our brands responsibly.

Please enjoy our brands responsibly.

Appleton Estate Rum

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$100,000 Art Contest Announces Winners

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 8, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Engage Art Contest announces its winning artists for their 2019-2020 contest. The contest, open to artists in North America, featured four categories—Visual Art, Music Video, Film and Performing Arts—and drew more than 1,000 submissions from 24 countries. Each category was juried blind by a panel of experts in that field of the arts. Cash prizes total $100,000.

The Engage Art Contest is the creation of art appreciators and philanthropists, Bill and Linda Bantz of North Carolina. Bill felt a strong calling from God to re-introduce artists to a time-tested source of inspiration —the Holy Scriptures. For centuries, artists such as Bach, Mozart, Chagall, Dali and Matisse have been inspired to create works based on Scripture. Bill and Linda feel that now is the time for this generation to draw on this source and contribute a contemporary take.

The topic of this contest is the Spiritual Battle as described in Ephesians 6:10-20, with each artist asked to explore this spiritual dynamic from their own viewpoint. In truth, the theme is universally relevant and evergreen, and it provides fodder for a broad array of artistic response.

The 2020 Engage Art Winners are:

Visual Art
1st Place: Steve A. PrinceArmor of God: Equipping Ourselves to do Social Justice—Virginia, USA
2nd Place: Jonathan MilletThe Contenders—Texas, USA
3rd Place: Jeffrey A. GomezForever and Ever—California, USA

Honorable Mentions: Geoffrey Bowton (Oregon), Sandra Jean Caes (Colorado), Maria Andrea Diaz Perazache (Costa Rica), Nirvani Harriram (New York), Cody F. Miller (Ohio), Ronald Mondesir (Massachusetts), Michelle Washington (California)

Performing Arts
1st Place: Willow PinkertonTrial and Faith—Pennsylvania, USA
2nd Place: Karlos SmithTransformed—Ohio, USA
3rd Place: Triston N. Gollop—Insurrection—Barbados

Honorable Mentions: Marcelino DaCosta (Ontario), Camille C. Hanson (Minneapolis), Sanjae Shanna Kay Innis (Jamaica), Daniel Knudsen (Michigan), Javaughn Lewis (Jamaica), Jhenelle Lewis (Jamaica), Gersha H. Tjaaroeme (St. Maartin)

Music Video:
1st Place: Jeremiah BligenWake—North Carolina, USA
2nd Place: Shane ‘Rizon’ GibsonAct Like You Know—Trinidad and Tobago
3rd Place: Bj’orn PierreNo Grudge—Trinidad and Tobago

Honorable Mentions: Esther Acheampong (Ontario), Robert Barrera (Michigan), Darian Johnson (California), Marley Nunez (Belize), Andrew Pickens (Missouri), Wrudell Timothy (Trinidad and Tobago), Katrice Walker (New York)

Film:
1st Place: Isaac MornatusFirm—Dominican Republic
2nd Place: Antwan WitterMy Biggest Fear—South Carolina, USA
3rd Place: Patrick MeikleTruly Valiant—Jamaica

Honorable Mentions: Daniel Anleu (Guatamala), Johnny D. Dutch (North Carolina), Jonathan Rothermel (Pennsylvania), Alfonso Meléndez Sánchez (Mexico), Willie Singh (Trinidad and Tobago), Simon Joseph Thompson (Jamaica), Christian Vargas (Costa Rica)

Plans for the 2021-2022 Engage Art Contest are underway and will be announced in January 2021. For more information or to view the winners work, visit www.EngageArt.org.

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GAP, the first airport group in the world to accredit all its airports in the ACI Airport Health Accreditation (AHA) programme

GUADALAJARA, Mexico, Sept. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ – Airports Council International (ACI) is pleased to announce the accreditation of all the airports that are part of Grupo AeroportuarIo del Pacífico (GAP) in the ACI Airport Health Accreditation (AHA) programme. GAP becomes the first airport group in the world to successfully accredit all its airports in the AHA program.

ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation programme supports airports assessing the new health measures and procedures introduced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in accordance with ICAO Council Aviation Restart Task Force (CART) recommendations and in alignment with the joint EASA and ECDC Aviation Health Safety Protocol.

The AHA program recognizes airports’ commitment to the safety of passengers, airport employees, and the general public. All passenger areas and processes are considered including terminal access, check-in areas, security screening, boarding gates, lounges, retail, food and beverages, gate equipment such as boarding bridges, escalators and elevators, border control areas and facilities (in collaboration with authorities), baggage claim area and arrivals exit.

“Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico reaffirms its commitment to the health and safety of passengers and employees by accrediting the 14 airports of the group (12 in México and 2 in Jamaica) in the ACI Accreditation of Sanitary Measures (AHA) program. GAP becomes the first Airport Group in the world to demonstrate that all its airports have successfully implemented their health measures in accordance with the recommendations of the ICAO CART and aligned with the best practices of the industry”, said Rafael Echevarne, Director General of ACI-LAC.

“Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico’s priority is to give its passengers a safe and pleasant travel experience. As proof of this is the present accreditation, which keeps us in the leadership of health security at an international level, applying the best protocols and measures in all our airports”, added Raúl Revuelta, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico.

About ACI
Airports Council International (ACI) is the international airport organization, with 1,960 airports in 176 countries. The Latin American and Caribbean office (ACI-LAC) has 270 airports in 34 countries that manage 95% of air traffic in the region.

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico, S.A.B. of C.V. (GAP) is a Mexican company that develops its activity in the airport sector. GAP operates 12 international airports in Mexico and two in Jamaica, serving more than 300 destinations, through 35 airlines. Its shares are listed on the stock exchanges of Mexico and New York.

In 2019, GAP served 48.7 million passengers, 8.4% more than in 2018.

The airports managed by Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico are located at:

  • Guadalajara and Tijuana, serving the main metropolitan areas.
  • Mexicali, Hermosillo, Los Mochis, Aguascalientes, Guanajuato and Morelia, serving medium-sized developing cities.
  • La Paz, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo and Montego Bay, serving some of the most important tourist destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean.
  • On October 10, 2018, GAP signed the concession contract with the government of Jamaica in order to operate, modernize and expand the Norman Manley International Airport (”KIN”) located in the city of Kingston.

The airports managed by GAP in Mexico are owned by the Mexican government and have been allocated in a 50-year concession starting in 1998, as part of a domestic initiative to privatize and improve the quality and security of the country’s airport services.

In Jamaica, the government owns the Montego Bay Airport and the concession granted for its operation is for a 30-year period, which will conclude on April 2033. The Kingston Airport was granted for a 25-year concession. GAP took control of the operation and administration this past October 2019.

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico believes in the value of each individual and seeks to trigger his or her potential through education. Better-educated Mexicans will raise their quality of life and contribute towards the country’s development. GAP, in line with its business model and through its Foundation, is committed to be a factor of change. We work on two strategic pillars: work with the community, through the GAP Schools, and on training the airport community, with Community Training Centers.

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The Caribbean’s First Non-Profit Investigative News Network Launches

-CIJN releases four hard-hitting investigations-

KINGSTON, Jamaica, Jan. 6, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – The Caribbean Investigative Journalism Network (CIJN) just launched with the unveiling of four deep dive exposés produced by over a dozen Caribbean journalists. CIJN is a project of the Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC) which is headquartered in Kingston, Jamaica.

The four long-form multimedia investigative stories were led by former Los Angeles Times publisher and editor, Davan Maharaj; former CNN anchor and correspondent, Jim Clancy; senior Caribbean journalist, Wesley Gibbings; and Caribbean-based media executive, Kiran Maharaj.

Maharaj, President of MIC and Co-founder of CIJN, said the CIJN initiative was meant to “create space for our Caribbean region on the global map of quality investigative reporting…. in small island nations we are straddled with the constraints of lack of resources, and the constant fear that our identities will be known and our lives at risk.”

The ISIS story reveals a trail of activities related to the recruitment of Islamist militants by a network of organizations in the twin-island state.

Human Trafficking in Plain Sight explores the sordid realities of human trafficking arising out of the turmoil in Venezuela. The existence of criminal networks working in tandem with corrupt police, immigration authorities and businesses is investigated in harrowing detail.

The team’s investigation of heavy Chinese investments in the Caribbean traces the growing influence of the Asian economic giant on regional development. Using supporting data, the story examines the impact of opaque investments in Caribbean mega-projects on a legacy of debt and geo-political influence in the Americas.

CIJN reviews the ill-fated PetroCaribe energy deals with the Caribbean; unravelling details on how an oil alliance founded by Chavez to confront U.S. influence in the Caribbean collapsed into broken deals, dashed hopes and rampant corruption.

Speaking at the launch, Jamaica correspondent, Steffon Campbell, said he saw the regional network of investigative journalists as being capable of seeing “the bigger picture; a regional picture; a transnational picture.”

MIC is a member of the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN), Global Forum for Media Development (GMFD), Institute for Non-Profit News (INN) and the International Press Institute (IPI). Its Advisory Board comprises leading media leaders, journalists and media development players from North America, Europe and the Caribbean.

CIJN stories can be accessed at cijn.org. All content can be freely republished with attribution and without amendment. For more information email: [email protected].

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Grupo Therrestra continues to lead construction in the Caribbean with a new project in Jamaica of 957 rooms

The new “Ocean Coral Spring by H10 Hotels” of approximately 120,000 m2 of construction, will be an avant-garde complex with an imposing design composed of two phases, a wide range of entertainment spaces for all ages.

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 25, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Grupo Therrestra, under the leadership of Engineer Hugo Pérez Ovalles, continues to intensify its presence throughout the entire Caribbean region with the execution of the new project “Ocean Coral Spring by H10 Hotels”. This project represents a new sign of success for the group which specializes in Design, Construction and Supervision, recognized in the region for executing tourism projects of the most demanding and high end hotel chains in the world with quality and within a short period of time.

For the New Ocean Coral Spring, Therrestra will employ values that characterize the organization, which are: talent, adaptability and the confidence that H10 Hotels placed for the development of 957 rooms to be executed in two phases with a total of approximately 120,000 m2 of construction.

The first phase, with 75,000 m2 of construction, will conclude by the end of 2019 and will have 513 rooms in an urbanized environment with an impressive main building which has a great Gastronomic offer, Theaters, Convention Center, Bowling area and others. Will also have a luxurious Spa and other 14 service buildings to enrich the experience.

The second phase, with 45,000 m2 of construction and 444 rooms will be the ideal environment for adults and it is scheduled to open by the end of 2020. Will have a main building and a lobby along with thematic restaurants and other specialized suitable areas for an environment to rest and relaxation.

The president of the Group, Hugo Pérez Ovalles, is thankful for the confidence deposited in Therrestra by the hotel chain, affirming its commitment with the development of high-quality projects and to continue being an ally of the tourism sector with the execution of hotel projects that exalt the Caribbean as an elite destination.

Satisfied with the projects carried out to date and grateful for this new challenge, Perez Ovalles confirmed that “The new Ocean Coral Spring by H10 Hotels is called to be a World Leader in tourism in the Caribbean and we are proud to be part of this initiative”.

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Starbuds, one of the world’s largest cannabis retailers, continues International growth with expansion into Jamaica

CaribPR Wire, DENVER, March 20, 2019: Starbuds, one of the world’s largest cannabis retailers, is pleased to announce its expansion into Jamaica. With plans to open in late Spring of 2019, Starbuds will become one of only 4 dispensaries to open its doors in the Jamaican capital of Kingston.

Through this licensing agreement, Starbuds will partner with Jamaican native Jonathan Harris to bring its exceptional customer service, industry knowledge and cannabis education to what is often thought of as the mecca of cannabis.

“Jamaica has a reputation as the birthplace of cannabis. It only makes sense that the market will continue to expand through International partnerships with more established companies and Starbuds is proud to be among the first.” says Brian Ruden, founder of Starbuds. “Through our unique owner-operator model, we have been able to provide an unprecedented level of customer service and industry know how while catering to the local demographic of each individual location. We strive to continue this model in Jamaica by pairing our history of experience in the industry with Jonathan’s connection to the community and the island’s affinity for the plant.”

“In Jamaica, I’ve always been surrounded by cannabis,” says Jonathan Harris, Starbuds Jamaica owner operator.  “It wasn’t until I started understanding the medicinal benefits of the plant and what cannabis can actually do, that I fell in love with it. I wanted to share the knowledge with my home country.”

Starbuds Kingston represents Starbuds’ first of many International ventures. Following the opening of Starbuds Kingston, Starbuds and Harris plan to partner on a second licensing agreement, to bring an additional Starbuds location to the Northern Coast of the island.

About Starbuds

Starbuds is changing the way people think about cannabis. Founded in 2013, Starbuds was among the first retail outlets to receive licensing when Colorado legalized recreational cannabis. Starbuds intends to establish its footprint as one of the largest internationally-operating cannabis retail companies.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This communication contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and forecasts, as well as the beliefs and assumptions of Starbuds’ management, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict.  Many factors could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated, including: risks and uncertainties discussed in this communication. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

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Jamaica Participates in Routes Americas

KINGSTON, Jamaica, Feb. 12, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Jamaica is participating in Routes Americas in Quebec, Canada between 12 and 14 February to promote the country as a tourism and business destination. Routes Americas is top leading summit in the Western Hemisphere for the development of new routes and airlift attended by airline and airport executives from across the region.

Jamaica’s objective at the event is to attract new flights and airlines to this leading Caribbean destination. The promotion of destination Jamaica is being supported by Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), which operates Jamaica’s leading international gateway, Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, and as incoming operator of Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston.

Meetings have been scheduled with 20 airlines based in Canada, the US, the EU and Latin America, including American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, British Airways, Air Canada, Lufthansa, Southwest, United Airlines and TUI, among several others.

Routes Americas will get the industry geared up for the World Routes 2019 summit to be held in Adelaide, Australia in September, where GAP will intensify the promotion of Jamaica as an investment and tourism destination. The World Routes summit in Adelaide will have a global reach with the participation of airlines based in the EU, Africa, Asia and Australia, many of which do not typically participate in Routes Americas.

GAP is committed to promoting Jamaica as an extraordinary destination with countless natural wonders and an excellent tourism product, as well as for its attractiveness as a destination for foreign investment that promotes the sustainable economic and social development of the country.

About Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico
Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico, S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) is a leading airport operator based in Mexico. GAP holds concessions for the operation of 12 international airports in Mexico and two in Jamaica, providing service to more than 300 destinations via 35 airlines. The company’s shares are listed in Mexico and in New York.

GAP served 40.7m passengers in 2017, an 11.4% increase over 2016.

Airports operated by GAP are based in:

  • Guadalajara and Tijuana, serving the principal metropolitan areas;
  • Mexicali, Hermosillo, Los Mochis, Aguascalientes, Guanajuato and Morelia, serving these medium-size developing cities;
  • La Paz, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo and Montego Bay, leading tourism destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean;
  • On October 10th, 2018, GAP announced it had closed the public-private-partnership to operate, modernize and expand Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica.

Airports operated by GAP in Mexico are owned by the Mexican government and operated under a 50-year concession that commenced in 1998 as part of a national initiative to privatize and improve the quality of service and security at airports across the country.

Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay is owned by the Government of Jamaica and operated under a 30-year concession by MBJ Airports, a partnership between GAP and Vantage Airport Group. GAP was awarded a 25-year concession to operate Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston commencing in October 2019.

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Jamaican Jazz Maestro Monty Alexander Brings Love Notes To Queens, NY For The Holidays

Dr. Monty Alexander, CD. (PHOTO CREDIT: Joe Martinez/Jazz at Lincoln Center)

Dr. Monty Alexander, CD. (PHOTO CREDIT: Joe Martinez/Jazz at Lincoln Center)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Dec. 12, 2018: Jamaican-born, Grammy-nominated international jazz maestro, Monty Alexander, CD, is set to make his first US performance this holiday as a newly-minted honorary Doctorate of Letters of the University of the West Indies Mona Campus.

Alexander, who has made his mark globally for his own brand of jazz, will celebrate the holidays at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, (JCAL), 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Queens, NY 11432, on December 15, 2018 at 7 p.m. under the theme: “Love Notes.”

The performance is sure to feature the maestro’s mashup of jazz with calypso, reggae, mento and other island music from his Grammy-nominated album, and leave many fans tapping their feet, straight up dancing or make converts of the staid.

Tickets are US$20 for adults and $15 for students and can be obtained here or on Event Brite.

Born Montgomery Bernard Alexander on D-Day in Kingston, Jamaica in 1944, the musical virtuoso has five decades of performances and over 70 CDs under his belt.  Alexander began his musical career at age four by playing Christmas carols by ear. He is now most widely known as an upper echelon master of the swinging piano trio function as he has demonstrated with several top-shelf groups, including iconic units with bassist John Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, and with the legendary bassist Ray Brown and guitarist Herb Ellis.

Alexander also performs frequently with Harlem-Kingston Express, a double trio in which he coalesces his love for hard-swinging jazz with musical flavors that reflect his Jamaican heritage, shifting between an acoustic trio and master Jamaican practitioners of electric bass and drums.

At 74, he continues to tour the world relentlessly with various projects, delighting a global audience drawn to his vibrant personality and soulful message.

For more on the Monty Alexander and his amazing brand of jazz, visit him on YouTube or at montyalexander.com. You can also like him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or keep up to date on his performance on Twitter at @montyHKE.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Felicia Persaud

Hard Beat Communications

718-476-3616

[email protected]

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Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico Will Operate the Norman Manley Airport in 2019

KINGSTON, Jamaica, Oct. 10, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The most honorable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica hosted the Norman Manley International Airport Public-Private Partnership Execution of the Concession Agreement to Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico (GAP).

The Jamaican authorities, including the Prime Minister, Andrew Holness; during the execution of the concession agreement with the GAP's CEO, Raul Revuelta Musalem

GAP is a Mexican corporation that operates thirteen international airports in large metropolitan areas, industrial centers, and world-class leisure destinations of Mexico and Jamaica. In the last 18 years, the Group has invested over $1.2 billion US Dollars in the airports, positioning itself as one of the fastest growing airport groups of its size in the world. During 2017, the airports of the Group managed 40.7 million of passengers.

In April 2015, Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico assumed operational control of Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, investing over 191 million US Dollars to acquire a 74.5% stake in this airport. This was the largest investment of the Group outside Mexico.

GAP has developed a culture committed to customer service. One of the main objectives of the Group once it takes control of the operations of the Norman Manley International Airport next year, will be to improve the infrastructure and equipment to fulfill passengers’ needs.

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, manages airports based on establishing strong partnerships with the airport owner, the passengers, the airlines, business developers, members in the air transportation industry and notably, with the local authorities.

“We will collaborate with the government of Jamaica in identifying tourism development opportunities and possible investors from Mexico; as well as explore potential growth for new resorts, tourism facilities and time-share business in parts of the country where the connectivity provided by the airport could be a catalyst”, mentioned Raul Revuelta, Chief Executive Officer of the Group during the ceremony in which participated Hon. Robert Montague, Minister of Transport & Mining.

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) is a Mexican company that operates 13 international airports in the Pacific and Central Regions of Mexico and in the Caribbean:

  • Guadalajara and Tijuana, serving the main metropolitan areas.
  • Mexicali, Hermosillo, Los Mochis, Aguascalientes, Guanajuato and Morelia, serving mid-sized and developing cities.
  • La Paz, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo and Montego Bay, serving some of the leading tourist destinations.

In Mexico, the airports are owned by the Mexican government and were assigned 50-year concessions as part of a national initiative to privatize and improve the quality and safety of the country’s airport services. In the last 18 years, GAP has invested over $1.2 billion USD in the airports. During 2017, the airports of the Group managed 40.7 million passengers.

In April 2015, GAP assumed operational control of the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.

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Phoenix Tower International Closes $485mn Term Loan Facility to Finance Further International Growth

BOCA RATON, Florida, Oct. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Phoenix Tower International (PTI), a leading wireless communications infrastructure provider, announces it has closed a US$485mn senior secured term loan facility to continue its international expansion.

Phoenix Tower International - LOGO

PTI successfully upsized and extended its existing credit facility and strengthened the composition of its syndicate group highlighting the company’s continuing success. The transaction consists of US$290mn senior secured 5-year term loan and US$195mn delayed draw which will allow PTI to continue expanding internationally.

The credit facility was led by Scotiabank, with Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, Santander, ING Capital, Natixis, Banco General, Orix Capital, and Towerbank participating and is the first Pan-Latin America facility of its kind secured by infrastructure assets. The credit facility provides financing on PTI’s existing wireless infrastructure, new tower development and acquisitions across PTI’s existing Latin America markets as well as many additional Latin America markets including Belize, Chile, Costa Rica Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, the French West Indies, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Paraguay.

“With this financing, PTI has full flexibility to continue to grow the business across Latin America with available debt financing at our disposal.  This will allow us to deliver for our customers, sellers and business partners in an expedited manner with a syndicated lender group comprised of long term relationships that PTI has had since inception as well as new relationships that will help PTI take the business to the next level in the years to come.  We are incredibly excited to close this loan with Scotiabank and the entire lender group,” said Dagan Kasavana, Chief Executive Officer of PTI.

PTI was represented by Locke Lord. Scotiabank and the Lender Group were represented by White & Case. Terms of the transaction remain confidential between the parties.

About Phoenix Tower International:

Founded in 2013, Phoenix Tower International (”PTI”) owns and manages over 6,000 towers, 974 km of fiber and other wireless infrastructure and related sites throughout Costa Rica, Panama, El Salvador, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, French West Indies, Jamaica, and the United States, including Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

PTI’s investors include funds managed by Blackstone Tactical Opportunities and John Hancock, as well as various members of the management team. For more information, please visit www.phoenixintnl.com.

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Award Winning Jamaican Jazz Maestro Gets Ready For Busy Round Of Caribbean American Heritage Month Performances

Award-winning Jamaican Jazz Maestro Monty Alexander  (PHOTO CREDIT: Joe Martinez/Jazz at Lincoln Center)

Award-winning Jamaican Jazz Maestro Monty Alexander (PHOTO CREDIT: Joe Martinez/Jazz at Lincoln Center)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. June 7, 2018: Over five decades of performances and more than 70 CDs later, award-winning Jamaican jazz maestro, Monty Alexander, is still thrilling jazz fans and introducing newbies to the genre with style. And this June, he is getting ready to do it all over again, as he gears up for a busy National Caribbean American Heritage Month in the United States.

The man, who singer extraordinaire, Tony Bennett, has declared put on one of the “best jazz shows” he has ever seen, is getting ready to play venues across the US as well as in Canada this June.

His month will kick off in Phoenix, Arizona on June 21st as the man considered to be one of the top five jazz pianists ever, will take his rhythmic, emotionally charged and virtuosic style of playing to Phoenix, Arizona’s Musical Instrument Museum, (MIM), at 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Show time is 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $38.50–$48.50 and can be obtained here.

The Museum is the largest of its type in the world with a collection of over 15,000 musical instruments and associated objects includes examples from nearly 200 countries and territories. Alexander will join a long list of stellar artists who have performed at MIM, including jazz legend Ramsey Lewis, Grammy-award winner George Benson, Motown’s Martha Reeves, Lyle Lovett, American Idol winner Jordin Sparks and Ronnie Spector.

Then its off to the West Coast for a two-night LA performance at Catalina’s Jazz Club at 6725 W. Sunset Blvd. from June 22nd to the 23rd. Showtime will be 8:30 p.m. nightly and tickets are priced from $30 for the Friday night show and can be bought here while Saturday night’s performance will cost $5 more and can be secured here.

New York Performances

Alexander will celebrate jazz and Caribbean American Heritage Month in New York City with back-to-back shows from June 24 – 26th at the popular NYC Jazz haunt, Blue Note, at 131 West 3rd Street in Manhattan. Show time nightly will be 8 p.m. and this special series of performance will be presented under the theme: “Love Notes: Jamaica To Jazz,” paying tribute to the maestro’s homeland, which he left behind 55 years ago but still holds in his heart and honors with every performance.

Tickets start at $20 for a bar seat and $35 for a table reservation and can be obtained here.

Canada
The Jamaican and American classic will wrap up the month in Canada as he takes his unique brand of jazz to the groovy Montreal International Jazz Festival at Monument-National, 1182 St. Laurent Blvd. from 8 p.m. Tickets are $51.75 and can be secured here.

ABOUT ALEXANDER

Born on D-Day, June 6, 1944 in Kingston, Jamaica, Alexander was playing Christmas carols by ear at 4, entertaining neighbors and relatives by 5 and taking his first piano lessons at 6. He resisted formal instruction, but still, growing up in Kingston, absorbed all the musical flavors that comprise his mature sonic palette of today.

Alexander began playing in local Kingston clubs at 14, when he also made his first recordings, some as leader of a group called Monty and the Cyclones, and others as a sideman for such legendary producers as Ken Khouri (Federal Records), Duke Reid (Treasure Isle), and Clement Coxsone Dodd at Studio One.

These early sessions for Federal, which Alexander describes as “not calypso music, but the beginning of Ska,” included such subsequently famous talents as trombonist Don Drummond, tenor saxophonist Roland Alphonso and guitarist Ernest Ranglin.

Alexander is most widely known as an upper echelon master of the swinging piano trio function, as he has demonstrated with several top-shelf groups, including iconic units with bassist John Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, and with the legendary bassist Ray Brown and guitarist Herb Ellis.

He also performs frequently with Harlem-Kingston Express, a double trio in which he coalesces his love for hard-swinging jazz with musical flavors that reflect his Jamaican heritage, shifting between an acoustic trio and master Jamaican practitioners of electric bass and drums. He debuted the project at Jazz at Lincoln Center in 2009 and documented it both on the Grammy-nominated 2011 CD, Harlem-Kingston Express: LIVE, and its 2014 Soultrain Award nominated follow-up, Harlem Kingston Express 2: The River Rolls On (Motéma).

For more on the Monty Alexander and his brand of jazz, visit him on YouTube or at montyalexander.com. You can also like him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or keep up to date on his performance on Twitter at @montyHKE.

Media Contact:

Felicia Persaud

Hard Beat Communications

718-476-3616

[email protected]

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Global Standards Leader ASTM International Launches “Caribbean Roadshow” in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana

WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, Pennsylvania, May 14, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — ASTM International, one of the world’s leading standards organizations, announced today that it will host several events in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana as part of the “Caribbean Roadshow,” June 4-8.

The roadshow includes outreach, training, and education focused on the growing use of ASTM International standards and International Code Council (ICC) codes. The team will highlight longstanding Caribbean partnerships and focus on how standards and codes are the foundation for quality and safety in construction projects.

Activities also include industry workshops and meetings with high-profile groups in Kingston (June 4-5), Port of Spain (June 6), and Georgetown (June 7-8). Speakers will include Mark Johnson, executive vice president of ICC, and R. Christopher Mathis, ASTM International board member and president of MC2 Mathis Consulting.

“This partnership involves unprecedented outreach and networking aimed at finding solutions to sustainable construction challenges,” said ASTM International director of external relations, James Olshefsky. “We look forward to highlighting the many members and dozens of partners who increasingly use ASTM’s high-quality standards throughout the region.”

In addition, the roadshow will include student forums during which students will learn about ASTM’s academic offerings, and laboratory roundtables, where ASTM staff will present information about ASTM’s laboratory services.

ASTM International has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) as well as all of its member states including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana. These agreements encourage participation of technical experts worldwide in the standards development process, while also broadening the global acceptance of ASTM International standards.

The “Caribbean Roadshow” follows a similar roadshow in September 2017 to El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Panama.

Over the past 17 years, ASTM International has signed 109 MOUs with national standards bodies worldwide. As a result, its standards have been referenced more than 7,500 times outside the United States in laws, regulations, codes, and elsewhere. For more information on this program, visit www.astm.org/GLOBAL/mou.html.

Follow the Road Show on Facebook and Twitter (#ASTMRoadShow).

About ASTM International

Committed to serving global societal needs, ASTM International positively impacts public health and safety, consumer confidence, and overall quality of life. We integrate consensus standards – developed with our international membership of volunteer technical experts – and innovate services to improve lives… Helping our world work better.

Roadshow Contact: James Olshefsky, tel +1.610.832.9714; [email protected]

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The Sunwing Foundation partners with Books Give Us Wings to spread the love of reading on Read Across Jamaica Day

CaribPR Wire, TORONTO, May 08, 2018: As part of their recently launched Flying Start program, Sunwing Foundation is joining forces with Books Give Us Wings (a Toronto-based charity established by seasoned North York elementary school teacher and Jamaican-born, Myrna Gabbidon, that promotes children’s literacy in the Caribbean) to fly just under 3,000 new and gently used children’s books to Jamaica in time for Read Across Jamaica Day (May 8th).

A quantity of books donated were collected as part of the Sunwing Foundation’s Flying start program that seeks to provide children with all the necessary supplies for learning in destinations served by the travel company. A large part of today’s donation was coordinated by Ms. Gabbidon who reached out to students at several schools across Toronto for help in order that a special delivery could be made in time for the national reading awareness day.

Ms. Gabbidon and the books collected were flown down on Sunwing Airlines to Jamaica yesterday. Sunwing’s local destination team, Sunwing Experiences, will be coordinating deliveries of the books to select local elementary schools throughout Jamaica with Ms. Gabbidon today, May 8th, and May 9th.

“My primary goal with this initiative is to ensure every child owns a book, as I believe literacy and art are both key to helping children become successful in their education and develop into contributing members of society,” says Gabbidon. “When you give a child a book, you give them wings; enabling their imagination to take flight and to become passionate and curious about the world.”

The Sunwing Foundation established the Flying Start program earlier this year to support students in the Caribbean by providing them with books and education supplies. Today’s donation is expected to positively impact thousands of Jamaican students.

“The Sunwing Foundation is committed to supporting youth and education projects in the destinations we serve.” says Stephen Hunter, CEO of Sunwing Travel Group. “We are pleased to help promote literacy on Jamaica’s National Reading Day.”

For more information on the Sunwing foundation, please visit www.sunwingfoundation.com.

About The Sunwing Foundation

A charitable initiative established by the Hunter family, the Sunwing Foundation reflects the Sunwing Travel Group’s enduring commitment to the support and development of youth in the communities where it operates in the form of project funding or the transport of humanitarian aid. The Sunwing Foundation passes on 100% of the charitable donations it raises to the communities that need it the most, funding educational and skills development projects to provide a direct, impactful, and sustainable improvement to quality of life for years to come.

About Books Give Us Wings
Books Give Us Wings is a charitable initiative created and led by seasoned school teacher from the North York area of Toronto, Myrna Gibbon. The idea for Books Give Us Wings was sparked in 2011 when Marguerite Jackson, Director of North York Board of Education at the time, collaborated with a number of educators, including Myrna, to provide each elementary classroom a bin of books the students could relate to—both fiction and non-fiction. The initiative received such a strong and positive response, Myrna decided to take the initiative further. Thus, Books Give Us Wings was born.

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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzjZ-lcuaqBQH7Sq0u3ru7A

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :

http://resource.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/e53c408a-e2af-4a99-9a34-f8265530037e

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La fundación Sunwing Foundation se asocia con Books Give Us Wings para fomentar el amor por la lectura en el evento Read Across Jamaica Day

CaribPR Wire, TORONTO, May 09, 2018: Como parte de su programa Flying Start de reciente lanzamiento, la fundación Sunwing Foundation trabaja junto con Books Give Us Wings (una organización benéfica con sede en Toronto, creada por la experimentada maestra de escuela primaria de North York, la jamaiquina Myrna Gabbidon, que promueve la alfabetización de los niños en el Caribe) para enviar por avión casi 3000 libros para niños nuevos y usados en buen estado a Jamaica a tiempo para el día de fomento de la lectura Read Across Jamaica Day (el 8 de mayo).

Una gran cantidad de libros donados se recolectó como parte del programa Flying Start de Sunwing Foundation, que busca brindar a los niños todos los elementos necesarios para el aprendizaje en los destinos a los que vuela la empresa de viajes. Gran parte de la donación de hoy fue coordinada por la Sra. Gabbidon, quien se comunicó con estudiantes de muchas escuelas de Toronto para pedirles ayuda para que esta entrega especial pudiera realizarse a tiempo para el día nacional de fomento de la lectura.

La Sra. Gabbidon y los libros recolectados volaron ayer a Jamaica en Sunwing Airlines. El equipo local de Sunwing, Sunwing Experiences, coordinará la entrega de los libros a escuelas primarias seleccionadas en todo el territorio jamaiquino junto con la Srta. Gabbidon, el 8 y 9 de mayo.

“Mi principal objetivo con esta iniciativa es garantizar que cada niño posea un libro, ya que creo que la lectura y el arte son clave para ayudar a los niños a triunfar en el aprendizaje y a desarrollarse como miembros activos de la sociedad”, expresó la Sra. Gabbidon. “Darle un libro a un niño es darle alas; esto permite que su imaginación vuele, le da entusiasmo y despierta su curiosidad con respecto al mundo”.

Sunwing Foundation lanzó a principios de este año el programa Flying Start para apoyar a los estudiantes del Caribe mediante la provisión de libros y suministros para la educación. Se espera que la donación de hoy tenga un impacto positivo en miles de estudiantes jamaiquinos.

“Sunwing Foundation se ha comprometido a apoyar a los jóvenes y a los proyectos educativos en los destinos a los que viaja”, comentó Stephen Hunter, director ejecutivo de Sunwing Travel Group. “Nos complace ayudar a promover la lectura en el Día Nacional de la Lectura de Jamaica”.

Si desea obtener más información sobre Sunwing Foundation, visite www.sunwingfoundation.com.

Acerca de Sunwing Foundation

Sunwing Foundation, una iniciativa benéfica creada por la familia Hunter, refleja el inquebrantable compromiso del Sunwing Travel Group de apoyar a los jóvenes en las comunidades donde opera mediante la financiación de proyectos o el transporte de ayuda humanitaria. Sunwing Foundation destina el 100 % de las donaciones que recauda a las comunidades que más lo necesitan a través de la financiación de programas educativos y de desarrollo de habilidades con el fin de crear mejoras directas, concretas y sostenibles en la calidad de vida de los años venideros.

Acerca de Books Give Us Wings
Books Give Us Wings es una iniciativa benéfica creada y liderada por Myrna Gabbidon, una experimentada maestra de North York, en el área de Toronto. La idea de Books Give Us Wings surgió en 2011 cuando Marguerite Jackson, directora de la Junta de Educación de North York en aquel momento, colaboraba con algunos educadores, incluida Myrna, para brindar a cada clase de la escuela primaria una caja de libros, de ficción y de no ficción, con los que los niños pudieran sentirse identificados. La iniciativa tuvo una respuesta contundente y positiva, pero Myrna decidió ampliar esta iniciativa. Así surgió Books Give Us Wings.

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Jamaica’s Award-Winning Jazz Great To Return To The Nation’s Capital After Four Year Absence

Grammy Nominated Legendary Jamaican Jazz Great Monty Alexander.

Grammy Nominated Legendary Jamaican Jazz Great Monty Alexander.

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Mar. 30, 2018: Jamaica’s Grammy-nominated jazz maestro, Monty Alexander, is set to return for a four-night performance next week in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., after a four-year absence.

Alexander is slated to perform at the legendary Blues Alley, located at 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW in Washington, D.C., from Thursday, April 5th to Sunday, April 8th.  The show has been billed as: “Monty Alexander – From Kingston to Harlem,” and fans will certainly be taken on this extraordinary musical journey with the star musician, who not only treats his audience to a spectacular performance, but to a captivating tale of his rise from a self-taught young man in Kingston, to the globetrotting, in demand performer he is today.

“I have been playing at Blues Alley off and on since 1971, so this will be my 47th year there and I am looking forward to returning,” commented Alexander.

Showtimes are 8 and 10 p.m. nightly and tickets start at US $46 and can be purchased directly by logging on here or at https://www.bluesalleylive.com/?fuseaction=home.artist&VenueID=3&artistid=2145

Blues Alley has been around since 1965 in Washington, D.C.’s Georgetown neighborhood. It is the nation’s oldest continuing jazz supper club. Jazz musicians who have recorded a Live at Blues Alley album include Dizzy Gillespie, Wynton Marsalis and Grover Washington, Jr. Blues Alley offers its patrons a unique ambiance, reminiscent of the jazz clubs of the 1920’s and 30’s.

ABOUT ALEXANDER

Alexander is a Jamaican and an American classic. Since moving to the US 55 years ago, he has continued to tour the world relentlessly with various projects, delighting a global audience drawn to his vibrant personality and soulful message. Like his “eternal inspiration,” Erroll Garner, Alexander – listed at Number 5 in ‘The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players of All Time,’ gives the hardcore-jazz-obsessed much to dig into while also communicating the message to the squarest “civilian “along with his Harlem-Kingston Express. In live performances with his band, Alexander spontaneously orchestrates, switching-off from straight-ahead to two-worlds-meet.

Born on D-Day, June 6, 1944, Alexander was playing Christmas carols by ear at 4, entertaining neighbors and relatives by 5 and taking his first piano lessons at 6. He resisted formal instruction, but still, growing up in Kingston, absorbed all the musical flavors that comprise his mature sonic palette of today.

For more on the Monty Alexander and his brand of jazz, visit him on YouTube or at montyalexander.com. You can also like him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or keep up to date on his performance on Twitter at @montyHKE.

Media Contact:

Felicia J. Persaud

Hard Beat Communications

718-476-3616

[email protected]

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Priority Pass Unveils The World’s Best Airport Lounges – and They’re Not Where You’d Expect

Lounges in Jamaica, Estonia and Malta among those recognised in annual poll based on 72,000 ratings from Members

LONDON, Dec. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — A selection of the world’s best airport lounges have been revealed by independent lounge membership program, Priority Pass, in its annual Lounge of the Year Awards.  This year winners include lounges in Jamaica, Estonia, Malta and Quebec as well as Singapore and Dubai.

The awards are based on ratings provided by Priority Pass Members and recognize excellence within the world’s largest independent lounge membership program. Priority Pass now includes more than 1000 airport lounges in over 500 cities and is this year celebrating its 25th Anniversary.

This year’s overall winner is Club Kingston, at Jamaica’s Kingston Norman Manley International Airport. With a decidedly Jamaican flair, the lounge features artwork and décor sourced from across the country plus local food and drink including traditional Jamaican patties and peas soup – all served to a gentle soundtrack of reggae music. An on-site bartender even creates signature cocktails, including a ‘Club Kingston Classic’, ‘Priority Passion’ and ‘VIP Splash’. But it’s not all pleasure! The lounge also offers excellent facilities to support business travelers on the move, including a conference facility and dedicated work stations.

Tallinn Airport Business Lounge at the Lennart Meri Airport Tallin, Estonia was crowned Best Lounge in Europe by Priority Pass Members, closely followed by La Valette Club in Malta International Airport. Tallinn’s Airport Business Lounge was designed to give travelers the feeling that they are waiting for their flight in the comfort of their own living room and aims to live up to the airport’s customer promise of being “the worlds cosiest airport”. Stand-out features include a massage chair and sleeping pods, a library where travelers can select an in-flight read, a curated selection of local food, beer, wine and spirits, a cosy electric fireplace and even an outdoor terrace – all of which clearly helped the lounge draw the plaudits of Priority Pass Members throughout 2017.

Shelly-Ann Fung, Chief Executive Officer, VIP Attractions which owns and operates Club Kingston, said: “We believe that during our six years of existence, we have made significant and innovative contributions to the travel experience for guests entering and leaving Jamaica. Not only does Club Kingston offer the innovative design and extensive facilities that travelers expect of first-class lounges in the world’s finest airports, but they also showcase the best of Jamaica through cultural designs, local brands, and a visual journey through displays, sports and music.”

This year’s overall winners are:

Justin Banon, Director of Priority Pass, added: “Travelers increasingly know what they want, and are not willing to settle for less. They have greater expectations and choice when it comes to airport experiences which delight and surprise. As a result, we’re seeing increased investment and recognition of the value of lounges from airports, airlines, financial institutions and other organizations worldwide. This can only be great news for both business and leisure travelers as there is a wider choice on offer to meet the different needs of individuals. During 2017 we’ve seen this reflected in our member feedback, with lounges in different destinations recognized for their service, food and drink and business facilities.”

The Club MCO at Orlando International Airport in Florida was ranked top for Best Business Facilities, with its ‘Productivity Zone’ (designed to help guests conduct business calls in private and provide a quiet space to work) proving very popular with travelers. The Club MCO was closely followed by Dubai International Business Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport, which was also highly commended in this category.

Both lounges received further recognition in their respective regional awards, with The Club MCO ‘highly commended’ in North America, while the luxurious Dubai International Business Class Lounge was named top lounge within the Middle East and Africa.

Other North American lounges fared very well in the final two categories, with Turkish Airlines’ Lounge in Washington DC winning Best Quality of Refreshments. Its signature dishes of lamb with baked eggplant and Mediterranean salmon, often followed up with Turkish tea or coffee alongside fresh baklava, proved a hit with travelers. Elsewhere, The Club BWI in Baltimore USA, was recognized for the service and attitude of its lounge staff.

In the Asia Pacific region, SATS Premier Lounge Terminal 3 at the world-renowned Singapore Changi International Airport, was named Regional Lounge of the Year. The lounge is known for giving its guests a chance to experience Singaporean culture, featuring real orchids, a display of Peranakan porcelain plus artwork depicting local scenes, decorating the lounge – which also hosts regular events, (such as serving fresh mooncakes during the Mooncake festival) ensuring that visitors are treated to a unique experience each time they enter the lounge. Its signature SATS Laksa meal is also a favourite for travelers.

Ahlan Business Class Lounge at Dubai International was named Lounge of the Year for the Middle East & Africa. Surrounded by wine barrels and wine chillers, the lounge specializes in creating personalized dining experiences for guests. Its signature ‘Refresh’ cocktail, a buffet offering an array of Arabic delicacies, a la carte menu and spa – all helped the lounge secure its win. It was also highly commended in the Best Business Facilities category.

Priority Pass received over 72,000 ratings from its Members in this year’s awards via the lounge rating function on the Priority Pass website and app. Members provide ratings on a wide range of criteria covering overall lounge quality, refreshments, staff, business facilities and ambience.

Notes to Editors:

The complete list of winners in the 2017 Priority Pass Lounge of the Year Awards:

Global:

Europe:

Africa & Middle East:

Asia Pacific:

North America:

Latin America & The Caribbean:

Best Business Facilities:

Best Quality of Refreshments:

Best Attitude and Service from Lounge Staff:

About Priority Pass

The original and largest independent airport lounge membership program.

Priority Pass is the original and largest independent airport lounge membership program, accepted at over 1000 lounges worldwide across 500+ cities and in more than 130 countries, (regardless of class of travel / airline flown) plus access to exclusive Collinson partnerships and dining, retail and spa offers through the Priority Pass app.

Priority Pass is a flagship product of the Collinson Group, a global leader in influencing customer behaviour to drive revenue and value for its clients and program members. The Group offers a unique blend of industry and sector specialists who together provide market-leading expertise in delivering products and services across four core capabilities: Lifestyle Benefits, Loyalty, Insurance, and Assistance. Collinson Group has more than 25 years’ experience, with 25 global locations, servicing over 800 clients in 150 countries, employing over 2000 staff, managing over 20 million end customers.

For more details please visit http://www.prioritypass.com

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French Journalist Notes Unique Similarities Between Jamaican Greats – Monty Alexander & Usain Bolt

…. As Alexander Gears Up For Six-City Tour

Grammy Nominated Legendary Jamaican Jazz Great Monty Alexander.

Grammy Nominated Legendary Jamaican Jazz Great Monty Alexander.

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Aug. 16, 2017: A French journalist’s comparison of the fluidity of the strides of recently retired Jamaican Olympic legend Usain Bolt to the agile hands of Grammy-nominated, Jamaican jazz great, Monty Alexander, on a piano, has left the virtuoso speechless.

Alexander said he was shocked recently, when while reading journalist David Gakunzi’s piece, ‘Bolt: La course manqué,’ he realized the writer had compared his hands, furiously playing one of his classics, ‘Take The A Train,’ to the strides of the world’s greatest athlete.

“To conquer the sky once more … his steps as fluid as the agile hands of Monty Alexander revisiting ‘Take the A train’ on a furious piano, marking history one last time,” Gakunzi wrote in French in his August 14, 2017 piece in La Regle Du Jeu.

“It is definitely a unique comparison,” Alexander commented recently. “I never thought of it that way but I know for me, similarly to Usain Bolt, I want to help to bring more good will and see Jamaica rise to its highest potential wherever I go.”

Alexander, who has been presented with the Commander In The Order Of Distinction for outstanding services to his homeland as a worldwide music ambassador, is set for a six-city tour across the US, beginning tomorrow, August 17th.

The one-of-a-kind musician will play the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, Arizona at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 17, 2017. Tickets for this one-time performance are $43.50 – $48.50 and can be purchased here.

On Friday, August 18th, Alexander will play one show only at the Smith Center in Las Vegas from 7 p.m. Tickets are $39 – $59 and can be purchased here. On Saturday, August 19th, the man widely known as an upper echelon master of the swinging piano trio function, will travel to California for three performances. On Saturday night at 5 and 8 p.m., respectively, he will play the Lesher Theatre. Tickets are on sale now and can be bought here.

On Sunday August 20th, Alexander will play a sold-out matinee show at Jazz at Filoli in Woodwide, CA and on Monday, August 21st, the top pianist will play the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in n Santa Cruz, CA from 7 p.m. Tickets are $30-35 and can be purchased here.

Alexander will wrap up his six-city performance with back-to-back shows at Dazzle’s Jazz in Denver, CO from Tuesday August 22nd to Wednesday, Aug. 23rd. Showtime nightly is 8:30 p.m. and tickets from $20 – $45 can be obtained here now.

ABOUT ALEXANDER

Alexander is one of the most sought after jazz pianists in the world and is ranked in the top five in ‘The Fifty Greatest Piano Players of All Time.’ Soon after moving to the U.S. from his native Jamaica, his amazing talent caught the ears of Frank Sinatra and Jilly Rizzo, and he was hired as house pianist at Jilly’s, New York City’s famed club, where he worked with some of the top names in jazz. Fifty-five years after he moved to the United States from Kingston, Jamaica, he has become an American classic. Whether playing straight jazz, Jamaican Reggae, Soul, or the music of his idols, Nat ‘King’ Cole and Frank Sinatra, Alexander’s energy and vibrancy, coupled with his musical prowess on the piano, will astound fans anywhere. He tours the world relentlessly with various projects, delighting a global audience drawn to his effervescent personality and soulful message. His spirited conception is one informed by the timeless verities: endless melody-making, effervescent grooves, sophisticated voicings, a romantic spirit, and a consistent predisposition. As Alexander, himself, sums it up: “To build up the heat and kick up a storm.”

For more on Monty Alexander and his music visit him on YouTube or at montyalexander.com. You can also like him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or keep up to date on his performance on Twitter at @montyHKE.

Media Contact:

Felicia Persaud

Hard Beat Communications

718-476-3616

[email protected]

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CHRISTEL HOUSE EXPANDING TO JAMAICA

CaribPR Wire, Indianapolis, Indiana, July 18, 2017: The Government of Jamaica and Christel House last week entered into a Memorandum of Understanding and Agreement, which facilitates the development of a new learning center on the island – the second most-impoverished in the Caribbean.  Christel House, an international NGO with a proven track record of breaking the cycle of poverty for severely at-risk children, will build its facility on a 10 acre parcel of land near Kingston, which the Jamaican government is contributing as part of a public private partnership.   At its own expense, Christel House will construct a facility which will serve approximately 840 students from the severely impoverished area.

Minister of Education, Youth & Information, Senator the Hon. Ruel Reid, applauds the decision of Christel House to invest in Jamaica. “This proposed development will be a significant addition to the many safe housing facilities available for the children under our watchful care,” says Reid. “This will be a home where the children will experience love, care and security, while their education and development needs are being addressed.”

Christel House Jamaica plans to begin operations no later than August, 2019.  The school will be built in phases, with the first phase to accommodate grades KG – 2.  Each year thereafter an additional 60 kindergarten students will be admitted, and the school will grow organically until it reaches capacity at grade 13.  Admission to the tuition-free school is needs-based. In addition to academics, leadership and character education, students will receive books, uniforms, transportation, breakfast, lunch and a snack daily and health services.

Christel House Founder and CEO, Christel DeHaan, is delighted with the expansion announcement.  “Breaking the cycle of poverty is the only way to unleash human potential and to build better societies.  We are thrilled to bring a Christel House to Jamaica and we thank the Ministry of Education for its support and belief in our model and our mission.”

Fundraising initiatives will be pursued both on-island and around the world, but particularly in the U.S., where Christel House International is based.  Christel House Jamaica is a Jamaican legal entity, with an independent board of directors, and its nonprofit tax status is expected to be received shortly.  The organizations have no political or religious affiliations.

See a video about Christel House Jamaica

About Christel House International

The mission of Christel House is to transform the lives of impoverished children around the world—breaking the cycle of poverty and building self-sufficient, contributing members of society. A focus on academic excellence through a robust K–12 curriculum is combined with a strong character development program to give students the skills and competencies necessary to compete successfully in complex 21st Century society.

Much more than a school, Christel House was established in 1998 by Founder and CEO Christel DeHaan, and currently serves over 4,600 impoverished students through eight learning centers—located in India, Mexico, South Africa and the U.S.A. Christel House students maintain a 99% graduation exam pass rate, and the majority of its graduates go on to pursue higher education. They become productive citizens, and many secure employment with top multinational corporations. Christel House graduates are confident, hardworking, responsible and ethical, with a passion for giving back to their communities and caring for their families.

For more information, please visit www.christelhouse.org and follow us on social media: www.facebook.com/christelhouse; www.twitter.com/christelhouse

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f4ac2bb2-046c-453e-a0f2-a844d16319fb

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/62d47922-4b5e-4239-858a-ed9f7b0b0e3b

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