CaribPR Wire

Innovative plant features first TM2500+ turbine in commercial operation to run on LPG

JACKSONVILLE, Florida, Dec. 12, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — APR Energy, a global leader in fast-track power solutions, announces today that it has signed a 12-month contract with U.S. Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) to provide 25MW of power generation using liquid petroleum gas (LPG). The project features a retrofitted GE TM2500+ mobile gas turbine, the first ever to be commercially operated on LPG – a significant milestone that will provide customers access to a cheaper and cleaner-burning alternative to other conventional petroleum-based fuels.

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The project is the latest in a string of business wins for APR Energy since being privatized at the beginning of the year, bringing the total of new awards, extensions and expansions in 2016 to more than 1GW. The project also is the company’s sixth award in the past year using mobile gas turbines.

“This first-of-its-kind project will enable the USVI to leverage its significant investment in LPG infrastructure by greatly reducing the cost and environmental impact of power generation,” said APR Energy Executive Chairman John Campion. “Experts are forecasting a 15-percent increase in the price of diesel fuel during the next two years, while LPG prices are expected to remain stable. Using LPG should provide WAPA with significant savings compared with diesel-powered reciprocating engines, which are common in the Caribbean.”

“The switch to the lower-cost and cleaner-burning LPG as the primary source of fuel in generating electricity in the Virgin Islands has been the single biggest capital project WAPA has undertaken in recent history,” said WAPA Executive Director and CEO Julio Rhymer, Sr. “We are excited about potentially providing lower rates for our customers and are pleased that with today’s contract signing APR Energy will be part of our energy solution in the Virgin Islands. For years now, WAPA has had a positive relationship with APR Energy, and we are pleased to work with them in becoming the world’s first electric utility to place an LPG-fired TM2500+ into commercial operation.”

Campion expects this project to serve as a model for other utilities looking to benefit quickly from LPG as an alternative, cheaper fuel source. “Interest in LPG is growing in many markets around the world, especially in the Caribbean and parts of Africa and Asia, where availability of the fuel has expanded significantly in the last few years,” Campion said. “The TM2500+ turbine is one of the few fast-track technologies capable of running on LPG, and it offers customers the added flexibility to switch quickly and seamlessly between fuels based on price and availability.”

The new project supplements APR Energy’s existing 25MW diesel-fuelled turbine plant installed in 2012 for WAPA, bringing its total generation at the site to 50MW.

About APR Energy

APR Energy is the world’s leading provider of fast-track mobile turbine power. Our fast, flexible and full-service power solutions provide customers with rapid access to reliable electricity when and where they need it, for as long as they need it. Combining state-of-the-art, fuel-efficient technology with industry-leading expertise, our scalable turnkey plants help run cities, countries and industries around the world, in both developed and developing markets. For more information, visit the Company’s website at www.aprenergy.com.

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OVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands, Dec. 8, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — interCaribbean Airways is pleased to announce a new nonstop weekly service from Providenciales to Montego Bay.

These new flights will commence operating on December 18^th, 2016 every Sunday and return every Monday. The service is initially offered on a once weekly basis on the following schedule.  This new flight increases the flights to 8 weekly flights in each direction between Jamaica and the Turks and Caicos Islands with a faster flight and improved connections from San Juan -Puerto Rico, Nassau – Bahamas and Santo Domingo -Dominican Republic.  These flights offer the fastest way around the Caribbean.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, welcomed the announcement by interCaribbean Airways of the new nonstop weekly service from Providenciales to the island’s tourism capital and second city.

Minister Bartlett said “intra-regional travel has a critical role to play in Jamaica’s efforts to grow visitor arrivals over the current growth rate of five percent.  Cooperation between our sister islands will assist in establishing multi-destination marketing arrangements that give us access to new markets.  This is exciting news for us and we are happy to have interCaribbean Airways on board.”

Dr. Rafael Echevarne, Chief Executive Officer of MBJ Airports Limited said we are very pleased with the new non-stop service to Providenciales. Montego Bay not only gains a new destination, but having direct access to interCaribbean’s hub opens up a wealth of much needed connectivity to the Caribbean.

Trevor Sadler, interCaribbean Chief Executive Officer said the steady increase in demand to Montego Bay warrants the introduction of this new service.  We are pleased to continue to respond to the need of the Caribbean Traveler with this service.  With significant ties between the two Caribbean nations we look forward to building on this initial once per week service.

About interCaribbean Airways:
interCaribbean Airways is based in the Turks & Caicos Islands, and was founded 25 years ago, to connect you and the Caribbean. The company operates a fleet of EMB 120, Twin Otter, BE99 aircraft connecting the Turks & Caicos to Antigua, Tortola, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, the Bahamas and Cuba; Domestic flights in Jamaica between Kingston and Montego Bay, are also offered.

NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Less than 100 miles from Florida, in the island democracy of the Bahamas, politicians and the police are harassing environmentalists, illegally hacking and publicly releasing their private communications and other confidential information. And, when the Supreme Court ordered several cabinet members to stop violating the conservationists’ constitutional rights, they threatened to jail the judge.

These startling events are laid out by environmental attorney and activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., chairman of Waterkeeper Alliance, in a new story in EcoWatch, one of America’s top environmental news sites.

Why are civil rights and the rule of law under attack? As Kennedy explains, some Bahamian officials are allied with one of the island’s worst unregulated developers. [See the full story and a video here: http://www.ecowatch.com/bahamas-nygard-bacon-kennedy-2128498516.html]. He notes that a well-connected billionaire developer who donated millions of dollars to members of Bahama’s government, Canadian apparel manufacturer Peter Nygard expanded the buildings on his private residence by filling Clifton Bay without government permission, damaging its world-famous marine area.

Shortly after a feisty environmental group, Save the Bays, sued Nygard, undercover police raided the home of Nygard’s neighbor, Louis Bacon, a philanthropist who co-founded the Save the Bays. In March, Bahamian cabinet ministers disclosed Save the Bays’ private emails and financial records during an open session of parliament.

Responding to a legal action by Save the Bays, the Bahamian Supreme Court ruled that the ministers had violated the environmentalists’ constitutional rights to privacy. But instead of backing down, the ministers doubled down. They appealed the ruling, arguing that parliamentary privilege trumped personal rights to privacy, and that the Supreme Court lacked power to enforce the constitution against parliament.  The ministers have launched a process to hold the lawyer who argued the case and the judge who decided against them in contempt of parliament.

The developer-friendly cabinet ministers are attacking the rule of law, stomping on privacy rights, and savaging judges, lawyers and environmental and human rights organizations, Kennedy’s story says, adding: It is time for level-headed leaders in the Bahamas to step in and fix this fiasco before permanent damage is done to the country’s natural environment and international reputation as a scenic destination and secure financial haven.

TORONTO, Dec. 1, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — In anticipation of the upcoming winter season, award-winning Memories Flamenco in Cayo Coco, Cuba has completely redesigned its beach, adding metres of pristine beachfront for guests of all ages to enjoy.   This change is the latest in a number of service upgrades designed to provide guests with an even more enjoyable vacation experience.

The beaches of Cayo Coco have been popular with vacationers for decades due to the pristine white sands and calm turquoise waters.   “We’ve been very honoured to receive accolades including the Award of Excellence from TripAdvisor® and are focused on continuous enhancements for our guests,” said Mohamad Fawzi, Senior Director of Operations for Blue Diamond Resorts, Cuba. “A brand new beachfront is an excellent way to improve guest experience.”

In addition to a redesigned beach Memories Flamenco, is updating its ranchon as the ideal place for a lunchtime buffet or afternoon snack. Poolside, the resort has a range of choices from a wading pool for small children to an activity pool so there is something for everyone. Ideal for families, the resort offers safe and supervised clubs for both infants and children, as well as a professional babysitting service for parents to enjoy an after dinner show or nightcap. Also for parents, the recently remodeled spa provides the perfect place to achieve some much needed rest and relaxation. A number of outdoor massage huts have been created in a tranquil part of the resort grounds for a massage with fresh air and the sound of crashing waves.

To book your next vacation, please contact your travel agent or visit www.memoriesresorts.com

About Memories Resorts & Spa

Memories Resorts & Spa welcome guests to “Celebrate the Moments” with family and loved ones in lush tropical settings across the Bahamas, Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Memories properties provide top-notch facilities and amenities, laid-back ‘toes in the sand’ elegance with personalized service and spacious accommodations to suit the needs of each traveler.  With world-class à la carte dining, premium drinks, and day-to-evening entertainment, couples and newlyweds enjoy Memories Resorts & Spa as the ultimate romantic hideaway to create unforgettable memories.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CaribPR Wire, TORTOLA, BVI, November 17, 2016 – COSME, an European Union funded programme and key supporter of entrepreneurs in the Caribbean region, is proud to announce its three finalists in their Confessions of an Entrepreneur contest.  The three finalists are: Libbie Oliver, Owner of Caribbean Mountain Coffee, British Virgin Islands, Cristal Legrand of SSSAS Tourism Ambassador in Sint Maarten and Madhavi Mathura of Accounting & Enterprise Solutions in Cayman Islands.  These finalists were able to deliver a short, well-articulated message about being an Entrepreneur. The contest was open to all entrepreneurs in the 12 Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT’s): Anguilla, Aruba, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Montserrat, Saba, St. Barthelemy, Sint Eustatius, Sint Maarten and Turks and Caicos.

The three videos have been posted on Facebook with voting boxes. The final winner will be selected by the public through online voting, which can be done here or at  http://bit.ly/COSMEVideo. The video with the most votes by midnight November 20^th, 2016 will win a HD Kindle Fire.

Ms. Oliver of Caribbean Mountain Coffee focused on the need for passion and how it will carry you through in a well-crafted message that tied into her own passion for coffee. Ms. Legrand of SSSAS Tourism is a brand new entrepreneur that was bubbling with enthusiasm and commitment for her upcoming opening.  Ms. Mathura of Accounting & Enterprise Solutions was clear about her dream and the need to just make a start or nothing can happen. All videos presented excellent messages.

As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week VI initiatives, COSME adopted the Confessions of an Entrepreneur series in its efforts to learn more and share more stories from entrepreneurs in the Overseas Territories.  This contest generated awareness and coordinated with a number of Entrepreneur activities taking place during Global Entrepreneur week, November to 14 – 20, 2016.

“The Confessions of an Entrepreneur contest enables COSME to show its support through results driven social media in profiling these successful entrepreneurs. This contest demonstrates that social media implemented in addition to traditional channels is an effective tool that OCT entrepreneurs can use to create awareness for their businesses in and beyond their country borders. During the video submission week COSME received over 30,000 visits,” stated, Diana Hendrickson-Fleming, COSME, Key Expert.

The public will choose which of the three entrepreneurs’ videos at http://bit.ly/COSMEVideo has the best Confession. Join in on the fun and cast your vote.  Voting will close November 20, 2016.

ABOUT COSME

COSME is a 54-month programme with the responsibility to disperse 15M Euros to projects benefiting participating Caribbean Territories. The funds were made available by the European Union (EU). The programme’s overall objective is to contribute to the sustainable and climate-resilient economic diversification and prosperity of Caribbean OCTs by improving the competitiveness of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the participating territories.

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Media Contact:

Samuel K. Kruiner

Private Sector Development Expert/SME Expert (British OCTs)

Caribbean OCTs SME (COSME) Programme SME Regional Project Office

Email: [email protected]

SME Regional Project Office

Road Town

Tortola

British Virgin Islands

www.cosmeprogramme.org

www.facebook.com/cosmeprogramme

Click Here for More Information »

Legendary Piano Master And Jamaica's Commander Of Distinction, Monty Alexander

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 14, 2016: Grammy-nominated, Jamaican jazz pianist and band leader, Monty Alexander, is coming to the legendary Chicago Jazz Showcase later this month.

Alexander and the Harlem-Kingston Express band, whose blend of music combines jazz seamlessly with the reggae genre of his homeland, will play the Chicago Jazz Showcase from November 24-27, 2016. Show times are 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. nightly.

The Jazz Showcase is the oldest historic jazz club in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 1947 by Joe Segal and is now owned and operated by Wayne Segal, Joe Segal’s son.

Caribbean and other jazz fans who call Chicago home can see the award-winning Jamaican musician and his band by securing their tickets for the shows here or by logging on to the Chicago Jazz Showcase website. Tickets are $45 and $25, respectively, per show.

Alexander is an American classic. His performances have been called pure magic by many journalists and jazz fans around the world, and his sets are undoubtedly “a refined concept of groove.” This extraordinary musician continues to tour the world relentlessly with various projects, delighting a global audience drawn to his vibrant personality and soulful message. His energetic pieces, documented on more than 70 CDs, draws upon the timeless verities: endless melody-making, effervescent grooves, sophisticated voicings, a romantic spirit, and a consistent predisposition “to build up the heat and kick up a storm,” as Alexander puts it.

In the course of any given performance, Alexander applies those aesthetics to repertoire spanning a broad range of jazz and Jamaican musical expression – the American songbook and the blues, gospel and bebop, calypso and reggae. Like his “eternal inspiration” – Erroll Garner -  Alexander is cited as the fifth greatest jazz pianist ever in The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players of All Time (Hal Leonard Publishing) and mentioned in Robert Doerschuk’s ‘88: The Giants of Jazz Piano.’

For more on the 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.

MADISON, N.J. and ST. VINCENT & the GRENADINES, Nov. 4, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced the brand’s expansion in the Caribbean with the opening of St. Vincent & the Grenadines Sotheby’s International Realty.

The firm, which is led by Michelle Bellegarde, owner and chief executive officer, and Pierre Bellegarde, president, will serve the luxury real estate market throughout the 32 island nation located in the Eastern Caribbean including the islands of St. Vincent, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Tobago Cays, Palm Island, Mayreau and Union.

“St. Vincent & the Grenadines is a hidden gem in the Caribbean,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “With pristine beaches in an idyllic setting, the islands are attractive for second-home buyers. We are proud to welcome Michelle and Pierre Bellegarde and their team to our network.”

“It gives us great pride to represent the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand in this incredible part of the Caribbean,” said Michelle Bellegarde. “We look forward to providing an exceptional real estate experience for those seeking the luxurious and incomparable Caribbean lifestyle.”

St. Vincent & the Grenadines Sotheby’s International Realty is located conveniently along the Belmont Walkway in Port Elizabeth, Bequia.

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has more than 20,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in approximately 850 offices in 65 countries and territories worldwide. St. Vincent & the Grenadines Sotheby’s International Realty listings will be marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website. In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firm’s brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs. Each office is independently owned and operated.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. In February 2004, Realogy entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

TORONTO, Nov. 1, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — One of the most respected and credible luxury travel publications, Conde Nast Traveler has ranked Royalton Punta Cana and CHIC Punta Cana among the Top Resorts in the Caribbean for its 2016 Reader’s Choice Awards.

“Royalton Punta Cana has been operating for nearly four years and CHIC just under two, so we are extremely proud of our dedicated management and staff who have achieved this honor in a short period of time,” said Mauricio Zarate, General Manager of Royalton Luxury Resorts in the Dominican Republic.

An award based strictly on traveler feedback, the Reader’s Choice Award is a strong acknowledgement of each resort’s dedication to customer service.  Between April and July of 2016, over 300,000 people cast their vote on more than 20,000 experiences, and chose to rank both Royalton Punta Cana and CHIC among the top 60 luxury resorts in the Caribbean.

“Royalton Luxury Resorts is still establishing itself and remains an emerging brand,” said Jordi Pelfort, Managing Director of Blue Diamond Resorts.  “However, as Royalton has been the recipient of numerous industry-leading accolades so far, we are thrilled to see how Royalton will grow over the next few years.”

Royalton Luxury Resorts offer guests an unforgettably elegant vacation experience in some of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations. With signature All-in Luxury® features including the premium, handcrafted DreamBed™, Unlimited Reservation-Free Luxury Dining, All-In Connectivity™, a Sports Event Guarantee™, elegantly styled rooms, splash parks, superb culinary options and entertainment for guests of all ages, Royalton Luxury Resorts are confirmed leaders in luxury vacation experiences. In each of these modern and contemporary hotels in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, Diamond Club™ upgrades are available for the most discerning guest offering butler service, premium in-suite liquor, exclusive pool and beach areas and the Diamond Club™ Lounge for private hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.

To book your next luxury all-inclusive vacation visit www.royaltonresorts.com or contact your travel agent.

About Royalton Luxury Resorts
Epitomizing modern elegance, award winning Royalton Luxury Resorts offer All-In Luxury® vacations in some of the world’s most popular tropical destinations, including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Cuba. Boasting an array of world-class all inclusive features including the premium, handcrafted DreamBed™, unlimited reservation-free luxury dining, All-In Connectivity™ with complimentary Wi-Fi and in-room long distance calling, a Sports Event Guarantee™, and more.  Many of the resorts cater equally to families and couples alike, with industry-leading supervised kids and teen activities offered at no additional cost combined with family-friendly accommodation and dining options. Royalton Luxury Resorts will expand its offering of upscale and elegant vacation experiences with the addition of five new resorts, Royalton Blue Waters which opened on October 15^th and Royalton Saint Lucia, Royalton Negril and their adults only Hideaway will open January 15, 2017.

Press Release from Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited

Dominican Republic Foreign Minister Miguel Vargas called out to participants so that efforts be oriented towards consensus, focusing on what unites us.

Vargas will preside the plenary of the Conclave that will reunite delegations from over 59 countries.

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, Oct. 25, 2016 /PRNewswire/ – Dominican Republic has become the capital of transatlantic diplomacy today with the reception of more than 30 ministers and 59 delegations of countries participating at the first meeting of Foreign Ministers and Senior Officials of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the European Union states, event that will be held until Wednesday.

Federica Mogherini, Vice President and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security will accompany the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Miguel Vargas Maldonado, in the development of the CELAC-UE meetings in the Caribbean nation.

The Minister from the Dominican Republic, motivated his counterparts from the Community of Latin American and Caribbean-European Union to participate actively in the dialogues, exhorting that the decisions taken should be based on consensus among participants, putting the general interest of bi-regional community first.

“We are at a critical point, where we are committed to ensure that the European CELAC-EU forum fulfills its transcendental purpose that has arisen facing common global challenges.”

“Therefore, I appeal to you all, so that your efforts are oriented towards consensus, under a constructive spirit, aimed at reconciling positions, putting aside what separates us, focusing on the goals that unite us”, added chancellor Vargas, as he welcomes the start of the of conclave discussions with a meeting of Senior Officials of the CELAC-EU.

Delegations Arriving

Since early hours, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been receiving the different delegations arriving in the country which include on the side of Latin American and Caribbean countries, the Vice President and Foreign Minister of Panama, Isabel De Saint Malo Alvarado; the foreign ministers of Chile, Heraldo Muñoz; Colombia, Maria Angela Holguin; Haiti, Perriot Delienne; Ecuador, Guillaume Long; El Salvador, Hugo Martinez; Guatemala, Carlos Raul Morales Moscoso; Bolivia, David Choquehuanca Cesoede; Belize, Wilfred Elrington; Antigua and Barbuda, Charles Henry Fernandez.

The ministers of Dominica, Francine Baron; Bahamas Frederick Mitchell; Barbados, Maxine McClean; Jamaica, Kamina Johnson Elizabeth Smith; Saint Kitts and Nevis, Mark Brantley; Argentina, Susana Malcorra; Honduras, Maria Dolores Lara Aguero; Costa Rica, Manuel González Sanz and Paraguay, Eladio Loizaga.

Meanwhile already in the Dominican capital are the European foreign ministers: from Portugal, Augusto Santos Silva; Latvia, Edgar Rinkevis; Poland, Witold Easzcykowski; Bélgoica, Didier Reynders; Slovakia, Miroslav Lajkac; Luxembourg, Jean Asselborn and Hungary, Peter Szijjarto.

Delegations led by deputy ministers and officials have arrived in Santo Domingo to join technical meetings, whose first and preliminary sessions initiated Sunday afternoon at the Foreign Relations Convention Center.

Several sessions of this kind will take place until tomorrow Tuesday afternoon, when the formal meeting of the Foreign Ministers will initiate with an opening ceremony led by Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, Miguel Vargas and Vice President / High Representative of the European Union Affairs Foreign and Security Federica Mogherini, with the presence of the Dominican President Danilo Medina.

Foreign Minister Miguel Vargas pointed out that in accordance with the commitment made by the Dominican Republic as a country holding the Presidency Pro Tempore of CELAC, the Ministry has deployed all the arrangements and requirements for this encounter between Latin American, European, and Caribbean partners, stemming that the meetings be held auspiciously, with the will of strengthening the bi-regional dialogue for the benefit of our peoples and nations.

The Foreign Ministry has worked with effort and dedication to uphold the image of the country and further strengthen the regional leadership of the Dominican Republic.

Felicai-J-Persaud-keynotes-Invest-TCI

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Sept 7, 2016: Caribbean leaders need to throw out the old play book, and think big – beyond the status quo.

That’s the word from Felicia J. Persaud, CEO and founder of Invest Caribbean Now (ICN), to delegates at the just concluded Invest Turks & Caicos ‘Enhancing National Competitiveness Conference.’

Delivering keynote remarks at the TCI event on the topic ‘Dimensions of Competitiveness in the 21st Century: A Global Perspective,’ Persaud said that the Caribbean region is being left behind while other developing regions are soaring ahead because the problems and challenges are being addressed with the same standard solutions.

“We need to throw out the old play book, and think big – beyond the status quo,” said Persaud. “We need to begin by re-imagining the Turks & Caicos and the Caribbean for the future.”

The ICN CEO recommended five keys which she said the region and the Turks & Caicos should be applying in this 21^st century to overcome serious growth challenges in the post-Brexit era in which the Caribbean and TCI now finds itself.

They include, according to Persaud, “thinking outside the proverbial box, telling our story, harnessing our natural assets and competing for our wallet share, harnessing the right human capital and enhancing collaborations and partnerships, growing the middle and focusing on technology and energy efficiency.”

She also urged the TCI to look seriously into the medical business “of that herb many love to hate and see it as an economic engine of growth as Puerto Rico is working on doing along with Jamaica.”

The legal marijuana market in the US is predicted to rise from US 6 point seven billion dollars this year to US 21 point 8 billion by 2020 and some countries like the Netherlands have begun to export medical marijuana to countries like Canada, Italy, Germany and the Czech Republic,” said Persaud.

“So ask yourselves – why should they be making all the money from a herb that emerged in our region?,” she stated. “We as Caribbean leaders must create a new direction for our people in order to meet the economic challenges of our time. To restore growth to our countries and region and opportunity to our people, to empower our people so they can take responsibility for their own lives – so we as one Caribbean can also take our place in the world as an economic giant like India and our Latin American brothers and sisters.”

And she added: “Let us combine out visions and our energies so we can see a little further down the road and around the corner. So we can use that vision to challenge the status quo and most of all – use that vision to innovate with outside the box strategies so we can grow, expand and excel… in this country and as One Caribbean region!”

The day-long event also featured Anya Williams, Deputy Governor of the Islands; Washington Misick, Minister of Finance, Investment & Trade of the TCI; Mark Durliat, CEO Grace Bay Resorts and John Williams, Director General, Telecommunications Commission Turks and Caicos Islands.

ABOUT ICN

Invest Caribbean Now was launched five years ago in collaboration at the time with the Caribbean Tourism Organization to serve as a conduit between funders and governments and private sector developers in the tourism field.

It began with an annual investment forum that featured investment bankers, private equity investors, ministers of governments, hotel developers, tourism officials, architects, real estate developers, financial advisers, entrepreneurs, Chinese government officials and investors as well as the media in a giant match making event that put the spotlight on investment opportunities in several Caribbean nations including Bermuda, the Turks & Caicos Islands, St. Martin and Trinidad & Tobago.

Based on its effectiveness in bringing people together to do business and its network of high net worth lenders and programs, ICN, owned by Hard Beat Communications, expanded it focus in 2015 to become the private sector investment agency of the Caribbean, focusing now year round on matching projects with funders and funding.

Construction projects like resort and hotel construction, villa and mixed use developments and multi-family properties are welcome as well as major infrastructure development, energy and mining projects. Additionally, debt funding is available for refinancing, purchase or bridge loans of between USD$1 to $100 million.

Meanwhile, small to medium-sized Caribbean American and Hispanic-owned businesses in the U.S. and Canada who have been in existence for one year and have earnings of USD100, 000 can also contact ICN for access to SBE loans of up to USD250, 000 for expansion.

For more information see investcaribbeannow.com.

The full speech can be seen here.

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SOURCE: Invest Caribbean Now

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kathy Bronson

Communications Coordinator

Invest Caribbean Now

[email protected]

718-476-3616

Finalists selected from pool of 290 cities that submitted bold ideas to address urban challenges and improve city life

Finalists now competing for $9 Million USD in Innovation Funds

NEW YORK, June 20, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Bloomberg Philanthropies today announced the 20 Latin American and Caribbean cities selected as finalists in its 2016 Mayors Challenge, a competition that encourages cities to generate bold ideas that solve urban challenges and improve city life – and have potential to spread.  The finalists, hailing from 10 countries, will move forward to compete for a $5 million USD grand prize and four $1 million awards, as well as extensive implementation support. The ideas reflect creative new approaches to some of the most pressing issues facing cities in the region, including mobility, youth unemployment, waste management, obesity, and social and economic inclusion for immigrants and people with disabilities.

“We received so many great ideas for this Mayors Challenge, and narrowing it down to just 20 finalists was a big challenge in itself. These ideas really capture the diversity of the region and the creativity and commitment of its leaders and citizens in making cities work better. Each of them has the potential to improve the lives of local residents — and if they work, to spread far and wide. We look forward to working with all of the finalists on their proposals and to seeing the winning cities bring them to life,” said Michael R. Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies and three-term Mayor of New York City.

The 2016 Mayors Challenge is Bloomberg Philanthropies’ first in Latin America and the Caribbean following successful competitions in the United States and Europe. After receiving submissions from 290 eligible cities in April, Bloomberg Philanthropies conducted an intensive review of the ideas with the support of Bloomberg’s extensive global network and a selection committee of 13 innovation and policy experts from across Latin America and the Caribbean. Ultimately, the top 20 best and most innovative ideas were selected to move forward in the competition.

The 20 finalist ideas were evaluated against four key criteria – their idea’s vision, potential for impact, implementation plan, and potential to spread to other cities. Finalists will next attend Bloomberg Ideas Camp in Bogotá, Colombia – a two-day convening in July where leading innovation experts and peer cities will help finalists take their proposals from good to great. Prize winners will be announced by the end of 2016.

The finalists’ ideas (outlined below) illustrate fresh thinking to address common urban challenges experienced by cities across regions:

1. Asunción, Paraguay – Data: Closing the city’s socio-economic data gap by conducting citizen-led research to gather demographic information that can inform and measure the impact of policymaking for the first time.
2. Barueri, Brazil – Social Inclusion for People with Disabilities/Workforce Development: Increasing access to the workforce for people with disabilities by creating a physical and virtual network to improve job training, analyze workplace conditions, and provide technical assistance to employers and job candidates.
3. Bogotá, Colombia – Education: Twice daily, the city will leverage all transportation channels, public facilities, volunteers and the city’s cultural history to enhance and shorten the severe school commute times for children.
4. Cap-Haïtien , Haiti – Waste Solutions/ Environment: Reducing deforestation and mangrove destruction by creating community biodigesters, which are closed containers that break down organic waste and turn it into renewable energy.
5. Caracas, Venezuela – Social Inclusion for People with Disabilities/Mobility: Enrolling volunteers to drive people with motor disabilities to and from public transport points and providing assistance during their commutes,  opening access to education, culture, healthcare, employment and productive citizenship for a vulnerable segment of the population.
6. Corumbá, Brazil – Environment/ Economic Development: Combatting further environmental degradation caused by improper disposal of ore – a mining byproduct – by repurposing the waste into productive materials for construction.
7. Curitiba, Brazil – Social Inclusion for People with Disabilities/Mobility: Drawing on its history of transit innovation, improving the mobility of disabled people by integrating more inclusive transport services and introducing better designed routes.
8. Estación Central, Chile – Social Inclusion for Immigrants / Entrepreneurship: Promoting social inclusion by matching immigrants with new business ideas to technical assistance, office space, and local entrepreneurs looking to partner to launch a new startup.
9. Godoy Cruz, Argentina – Waste Solutions: Preventing illegal waste disposal in canals – an essential feature of the city’s irrigation system – by placing sensors to monitor and identify the exact location where infractions occur.
10. Guadalajara, México – Transparency / Government Efficiency: Tackling corruption by streamlining the legal requirements for construction projects through a new geo-referenced app that publicly maps business names, plans, licenses and payments, speeding processing times and increasing transparency.
11. Kingston, Jamaica – Youth Unemployment / Workforce Development: Tackling entrenched youth unemployment through a mobile digital platform that encourages young people to explore, create, and access career opportunities in a variety of industries, especially Jamaica’s cultural and music industry, based on their strengths and interests.
12. Medellín, Colombia – Public Safety / Financial Empowerment: Reducing demand for illegal loans that finance organized crime by creating neighborhood lending collectives that offer low-interest commercial loans and connections to employment.
13. Milagro, Ecuador – Environmental Sustainability: Encouraging emergency preparedness for children through the creation of a network chaired and formed by students that promotes better preparation for adverse weather and natural disasters.
14. Pudahuel, Chile – Education: Pairing older residents wishing to volunteer with the children of working families in need of after-school child care, limiting social isolation for seniors and providing a vital service for families.
15. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Public Health: Improving children’s healthcare standards and outcomes by removing silos and integrating data across agencies to improve the health and wellbeing of children ages zero to six.
16. Santiago (Commune), Chile – Public Health: Through citywide challenges, encourage neighborhood groups to work together to reduce childhood obesity; communities earn points they can use to fund local recreational and civic infrastructure.
17. São Paulo, Brazil – Economic Development: Creating an online exchange that connects growing local demand for locally produced farm products from restaurants, markets, and schools to struggling local farmers on the outskirts of the city, addressing a market failure.
18. Tlalnepantla de Baz, México – Social Cohesion: Publishing and promoting a municipal catalog of good deeds, an effort to address widespread civic apathy by engaging citizens in acts like helping the elderly and improving the local environment.
19. Tuxtla Gutiérrez, México – Anti-Corruption: Fighting corruption and improving efficiency by streamlining service delivery for public facing transactions and allowing users to monitor the activity of civil servants through a new mobile app.
20. Valdivia, Chile – Entrepreneurship: Directing promising academic research toward practical problems and helping the local economy by testing bright ideas from local universities in real-world markets with a new mobile lab.

“This year’s finalists are using innovation to address the concrete, clear, and urgent needs of citizens – with noteworthy emphasis on vulnerable populations,” said James Anderson, the head of Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Government Innovation Programs. “There is so much cities around the globe can learn from the way these finalists are engaging citizens and data to meet pressing needs,” said James Anderson, the head of Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Government Innovation program.

To learn more about the Mayors Challenge, visit www.mayorschallenge.bloomberg.org and @BloombergCities on Twitter and Instagram.

About Bloomberg Philanthropies

Bloomberg Philanthropies works in more than 120 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on five key areas for creating lasting change: Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg’s charitable activities, including his foundation and his personal giving. In 2015, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed over half a billion dollars.  For more information, please visit bloomberg.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter @BloombergDotOrg.

Media Contact
Bloomberg Philanthropies, Rebecca Carriero, (212) 205-0182 | [email protected]

St. Maarten, the Cayman Islands, Curacao, and Grenada boost regional protections for sharks

MAHO, St. Maarten, June 15, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Sharks are safer across the Caribbean Sea, with the announcement of four new shark sanctuaries in the region. Prime Minister William Marlin of St. Maarten and Wayne Panton, minister of financial services, commerce, and environment for the Cayman Islands today announced that their exclusive economic zones (EEZs) are completely closed to commercial shark fishing. Additionally, Curacao and Grenada announced that they will establish legislation this year that will protect sharks in their waters.

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Government leaders were joined by ocean advocate Sir Richard Branson, as well as by global shark experts and representatives from The Pew Charitable Trusts and other nongovernmental organizations, at a press conference in St. Maarten to champion the new protected areas.

“People from all over the world come to our island to dive and snorkel with our marine wildlife, including sharks and rays,” said Irania Arrindell, St. Maarten’s minister of tourism, economic affairs, transport, and telecommunications. “St. Maarten’s shark sanctuary will help to ensure that our local shark populations exist for future generations and continue to benefit St. Maarten’s marine ecosystem and ecotourism.”

Together, the two new sanctuaries cover a total of 46,190 square miles (119,631 square kilometers), raising the total number of Caribbean sanctuaries to seven.

Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Unite founder, said: “We applaud the steps taken by Caribbean island governments to conserve sharks in their waters. To these governments, sharks are worth far more alive than dead. We are delighted and encouraged to see this bold action being taken to protect Caribbean ecosystems and bolster ecotourism industries.”

“St. Maarten and the Cayman Islands have joined a progressive group of leaders in global shark conservation by choosing to fully protect the diverse but vulnerable shark and ray species found in their waters,” said Luke Warwick, director of Pew’s global shark conservation campaign. “We look forward to continued expansion of shark conservation in the Caribbean to secure the region as a safe haven for threatened shark species.”

The announcement came during a three-day shark conservation symposium co-hosted by the government of St. Maarten, the St. Maarten Nature Foundation, the Bahamas National Trust, and The Pew Charitable Trusts. At the symposium, Caribbean leaders had the opportunity to learn from global shark experts, such as Boris Worm, professor in marine conservation biology at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and discuss shark conservation and shark-related tourism in their jurisdictions.

Since 2009, Pew has worked with governments around the world to establish shark sanctuaries in their territorial waters. The creation of these sanctuaries in the Caribbean brings the total number of sanctuaries worldwide to 14, covering 6 million square miles (15.5 million square kilometers), an area bigger than Canada.

Worldwide, at least 100 million sharks are killed each year in commercial fisheries; nearly 30 percent of all known shark species assessed by scientists are threatened with extinction. Sharks play an important role in maintaining the health of the entire ocean, but they grow and reproduce slowly, which makes them particularly vulnerable to overfishing. Officials in many coastal and island nations recognize sharks’ high value to the dive tourism industry.

“Establishing sanctuaries to protect all sharks makes clear that these top predators warrant the same status as other vulnerable marine wildlife that help attract ecotourism, such as turtles and whales,” Warwick added.

The Pew Charitable Trusts is driven by the power of knowledge to solve today’s most challenging problems. Learn more at www.pewtrusts.org.

Barbara Cvrkel, +1 202-510-5670
[email protected]

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago, March 8, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – The Renaissance at Shorelands, an ultra-luxurious residential development located along the northwest coastline of Trinidad, has completed a limited number of its spectacular penthouses. Dubbed “Platinum” because of their rarity and splendor, the new penthouses are designed for the privileged few whose discerning taste exceeds conventional luxury. Chief Operating Officer at the Renaissance, Anthony Bowen, describes the penthouses as “the jewel in the crown” and remarks “there is absolutely nothing to compare in the whole of Trinidad”. Bowen revealed potential investors are already displaying an interest in them.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160303/340413

The impeccably designed three-story penthouses contain grand windows that offer views over the Port of Spain skyline. The outdoor roof terrace, with a grandiose pool, affords a panoramic view of the capital city and the tranquil Gulf of Paria.

Residents of the Platinum Penthouses are greeted by a private lobby, lined with a marble floor. The expansive living space includes a 10-seat dining room, spacious kitchen, bar, and a living room with balcony. A striking feature is the imposing circular staircase that leads to the study and well-appointed master bedroom.  Each residence is in excess of 9000 square feet and can be configured to either 3 or 4 bedrooms.

The Renaissance at Shorelands caters to a growing niche in the real estate market – homeowners who want more than just someplace nice to sleep.  They want to relax and recharge, as one would normally do at a hotel, but from the convenience of their home.  As residents of the stylish towers that comprise the Renaissance, penthouse owners have access to the property’s ample amenities.  These include a modern spa, high-performance gym, an entertainment area, infinity edge pool with hot tub, a boardwalk by the sea, concierge and 24-hour internal security. The neighboring yacht club is a further enticement for boat owners.  Collectively, these conveniences guarantee a luxurious lifestyle.

The previous 74 residences built in the Renaissance at Shorelands are regarded as dream homes. The new regal penthouses can therefore be considered the ultimate real estate investment.

About the Renaissance at Shorelands

The Renaissance at Shorelands is a high profile development in Trinidad that includes seventy-four private residences, penthouses, numerous luxury lifestyle amenities and security features.

For more information about the Platinum Penthouses and the other residences, please visit www.renaissanceatshorelands.com or email Anthony Bowen at [email protected]

Media Contact:
Anthony Bowen
Tel: + (868)-772-7296
Email: [email protected]

RICHMOND, Virginia, LONDON and HAMILTON, Bermuda, Dec. 8, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Markel Corporation (”Markel”) (NYSE: MKL) and CATCo Investment Management Ltd. (”CATCo”) jointly announced today the completion of the acquisition by Markel of substantially all of the assets of CATCo.

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The business, which provides collateralized protections to over 35 global reinsurance buyers, will now operate as Markel CATCo Investment Management Ltd. (”Markel CATCo”). Every member of the CATCo team, led by Chief Executive Officer Tony Belisle, has transferred to Markel CATCo.

Richard R. Whitt, President and Co-Chief Operating Officer of Markel, commented, “We welcome Tony and the CATCo team into the Markel family. The reception by existing CATCo reinsurance buyers and investors to the newly established Markel platform has been overwhelmingly positive. We truly will be hitting the ground running.”  Whitt further remarked, “Joining CATCo’s insurance linked investment management capabilities alongside Markel’s traditional reinsurance capabilities should make for a powerful combination.”

Tony Belisle, Chief Executive Officer of Markel CATCo Investment Management Ltd., said, ”I am delighted with the successful closure of the transaction and the bringing together of two fantastic organisations that share similar goals and cultures.

“The extra support our new owner brings will enable us to offer enhanced product ranges and secure capital efficiencies for our growing number of reinsurance buyers. With a significant amount of next year’s renewals already committed and projected AUM expected to exceed $3bn, 2016 is shaping up to be a positive and exciting year.”

Willis Capital Markets & Advisory served as exclusive financial advisor and Hogan Lovells International LLP served as legal advisor to CATCo. Sidley Austin LLP served as legal advisor to Markel.

About Markel Corporation

Markel Corporation is a diverse financial holding company serving a variety of niche markets. The Company’s principal business markets and underwrites specialty insurance products. In each of the Company’s businesses, it seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting and operating profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value. Visit Markel Corporation on the web at www.markelcorp.com.

About Markel CATCo Investment Management Ltd.

Markel CATCo Investment Management Ltd. is a specialist investment management business. From its headquarters in Hamilton, Bermuda, Markel CATCo manages retrocession and traditional reinsurance portfolios for clients around the world, including financial institutions, charities, pension funds, family offices and investment funds. Markel CATCo Investment Management Ltd. is authorized and regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority.

Disclaimer

Some of the statements in this release may be considered forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Markel’s and Markel CATCo’s beliefs, plans or expectations, are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on Markel’s and Markel CATCo’s current plans, estimates and expectations. There are risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by such statements. Neither Markel nor Markel CATCo assumes any obligation to update this release (including any forward-looking statements herein) as a result of new information, developments or otherwise. This release speaks only as of the date issued.Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140415/73238

CONTACT: Markel Corporation, Media, Paul Broughton, Managing Director, Marketing, 804-527-7618, [email protected]; Markel Corporation, Investors, Bruce Kay, Managing Director, Investor Relations, 804-747-0136, [email protected]; Markel CATCo Investment Management Ltd., Media, Mark Way, Investor Relations Director, +44 7786 116 991, [email protected]; Markel CATCo Investment Management Ltd., Investors, Tony Belisle, Chief Executive Officer, 508-259-1640, [email protected]

Hotel giant accelerates Caribbean expansion with development of first Wyndham Grand Resort on site of historic Sam Lord’s Castle in St. Philip

PARSIPPANY, N.J., Oct. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Highlighting strong and growing interest in its portfolio of upscale brands in the Caribbean, Wyndham Hotel Group, the world’s largest hotel company, today announced plans for further global expansion with the development of the 450-room Sam Lord’s Castle Barbados, A Wyndham Grand Resort.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151013/276536

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Located in the parish of St. Philip at the former site of Sam Lord’s Castle–a spot renowned for pirates in the 19th century and one that carries great historical significance in the Caribbean today–the all-new construction resort is being developed with Barbados Tourism Investment, Inc. and will be managed by Wyndham Hotel Group. In addition to spacious, elegantly appointed guest-rooms, the resort will offer three on-site restaurants, 20,000 square-feet of state-of-the-art meeting space as well as an expansive luxury spa and fitness center. It will be the first Wyndham branded resort in Barbados.

“The famous buccaneer Sam Lord settled in this area for its beauty and mystique. Today, we believe he selected the perfect location for our continued growth in the Caribbean,” said Paulo Pena, president and managing director, Latin America and the Caribbean for Wyndham Hotel Group. “This new hotel’s spectacular design will surely become an icon for guests in search of unique 5-star offerings and amenities.”

“Each year Barbados hosts more and more visitors as it continues to position itself as a top vacation spot in the Caribbean. The development of Sam Lord’s Castle Barbados, A Wyndham Grand Resort, will offer guests the beauty of our beaches and access to our distinctive history, merged with the luxurious experience that the Wyndham Grand brand offers to travelers around the world,” said Everton Walters, chairman of Barbados Tourism Investment Inc.

Sam Lord’s Castle Barbados, A Wyndham Grand Resort will be situated along the gorgeous beaches of Long Bay by Sam Lord’s Castle. The site was a beautiful Georgian mansion built in 1820 by Samuel Hall Lord, known as ‘Sam Lord’. It is said that the notorious buccaneer used to hang lanterns on palm trees to attract merchant ships whose captains mistakenly thought the place was a safe harbor.

When it opens in 2018, the hotel will be Wyndham Hotel Group’s 13th property in the Caribbean, with a portfolio which includes The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, under the Wyndham Grand® Hotels and Resorts, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts®, Wyndham Garden® Hotels, Ramada® and Howard Johnson® brands. The company is also scheduled to introduce the first TRYP by Wyndham hotel in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico later this year.

The new hotel will participate in Wyndham Rewards®, the simple-to-use, revolutionary new loyalty program from Wyndham Hotel Group that offers members a generous points earning structure along with a flat, free night redemption rate – the first of its kind for a major rewards program. For more information or to enroll, visit www.wyndhamrewards.com.

For additional photos of today’s event, please click here.

About Wyndham Hotel Group

Wyndham Hotel Group is the world’s largest hotel company based on number of hotels and is one of three hospitality business units of Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE: WYN). As both a leading hotel brand franchisor and hotel management services provider, the company’s global portfolio consists of approximately 7,700 properties and over 668,500 rooms in 71 countries under the following brands: Dolce Hotels and Resorts®, Wyndham Grand® Hotels and Resorts, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts®, Wyndham Garden® Hotels, TRYP by Wyndham®, Wingate by Wyndham®, Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham®, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham®, Ramada®, Baymont Inn & Suites®, Days Inn®, Super 8®, Howard Johnson®, Travelodge® and Knights Inn®. Wyndham Rewards, the company’s guest loyalty program, offers more than 40 million members the opportunity to earn and redeem points at thousands of hotels across the world. For more information visit www.wyndhamworldwide.com.

CONTACT: Paula Carreiro, Wyndham Hotel Group, (973) 753-7927, [email protected]

CaribPR Wire, PAGET, Bermuda, Oct. 12, 2015 — Last Saturday, the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association inducted Caribbean Hotelier/Developer John Jefferis, JP into the Tourism Hall of Fame for 2015. He is one of only two persons ever to be inducted. The Tourism Hall of Fame recognises and honours those persons who have been outstanding performers in the hospitality and tourism industry and whose hard work, dedication and innovation make Trinidad and Tobago the destination of choice for tourists.

John Jefferis is the owner of Coco Reef – Bermuda, Coco Reef – Tobago and a number of other businesses in the Caribbean region, including Cuba. He started his career as a 15-year-old pot washer at a fish and chip restaurant in London. Today, he is the Chairman and sole shareholder of the Palm Reef Hotel Development Company Limited, Coco Reef Resorts Ltd, the Caribbean Construction Company, Island Resorts International Ltd and Inflite Catering, an airline catering company with operations in both Bermuda and Tobago.

Mr Jefferis, a past President and Chairman of the Bermuda Hotel Association, was the driving force behind Bermuda joining the Caribbean Hotel Association. He went on to become President of the Caribbean Hotel Association from 1996 to 1998 and Chairman from 1998 until 2000. During his presidency, Mr Jefferis visited nearly all of the Caribbean Association member Islands. During his speeches to the Island Hotel Associations his mantra was “Without a vibrant and profitable hotel industry a country can never have a successful tourism industry.”

In 2011, Mr Jefferis was appointed Deputy Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Board. He also served as Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Board’s Gaming Committee.

“We are proud to recognise John Jefferis’ 50 years of substantial and sustained contribution to leadership, service and success in the Trinidad and Tobago hospitality and tourism industry,” said Andrew Welch, President, Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association. “The Award Judging Committee acknowledges John’s contribution to the growth of Trinidad and Tobago’s hospitality and tourism sector through innovation and astute business practices.  Mr Jefferis has left a positive lasting legacy within his organisation, as well as with the people with whom he has worked.  Coco Reef Resorts has significantly contributed to the improvement and the recognition of Tobago as a tourism destination.”

Mr Jefferis studied at Birmingham University where he was awarded the Hotel and Catering Institute’s National Award for the top final year management student. As a result of the award he was able to secure an internship at the Savoy Hotel in London. He then moved to Bermuda where he was employed as Junior Assistant Manager at the Belmont Hotel. He was subsequently promoted to General Manager at Belmont and was the youngest person ever to hold that post.

Subsequently Mr Jefferis was appointed Managing Director and a member of the Board of Directors of the Elbow Beach Hotel and Development Company. During his time at Elbow Beach, the hotel’s market share and reputation increased dramatically, making it Bermuda’s most successful and profitable hotel.

Mr Jefferis was also the owner of Edgehill Manor, Roxy’s Night Club and the Palm Reef Hotel, all of which he later sold. He was the major shareholder in the Haley Corporation, which was for many years, Bermuda’s largest tour operator and source of tourists.

In 1992, Mr Jefferis commenced the design, development plans, financing, and construction of the $82 million Coco Reef – Tobago, which became one of the Caribbean’s most successful properties. A well-known leading Caribbean Tour Operator/Airline Executive stated: “Without Coco Reef, there would not be any tourism in Tobago.”

At the staff orientation meetings after the opening of Coco Reef – Tobago, the essence of Mr Jefferis’ opening remarks was: “We are in the business of theatre. My job is to spend a lot of money to create a beautiful set for our guests. You are the actors and actresses, many of you will become stars. We must always remember that we are only as good as our customers’ perception of our last performance.” His philosophy on staff recruitment was made clear by the large sign over the General Manager’s office door:  “Hire for Attitude – Train for Skills”.

In 2003, Mr Jefferis acquired the Stonington Beach Hotel situated on Bermuda’s most famous beach and underwent a $14.3 million reconstruction, renovation and refurbishment to open Coco Reef – Bermuda in 2004.

In response to his induction into the Tourism Hall of Fame, John Jefferis said: “Having devoted my career to the hospitality and tourism industry, it is an honour to be inducted into the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association Hall of Fame. Creating new and memorable experiences and continually upgrading and redesigning my hotels for our guests is my passion and I am always humbled to be recognised for doing what I love most.”

Mr Jefferis has won countless accolades and awards including:  Bermuda Hotel Association’s first “Bermuda Hotelier of the Year” in 1989, The Caribbean Hotel Association’s “Caribbean Hotelier of the Year” in 1991, Ernst and Young’s “Caribbean Entrepreneur of the Year Award” in 2000 and Caribbean World’s “Lifetime Achievement Award in Tourism and Travel” in 2008. Most recently, in 2014, he was named International Caribbean Life’s “Entrepreneur of the Year.” In addition, Coco Reef – Tobago has won the World Travel Award for the “Caribbean’s Leading Hotel” for the past 11 years.

Media Contacts:

Elizabeth Tee

Troncossi Public Relations

(441) 292-5838

[email protected]

Empresario hotelero caribeno John Jefferis es incluido en el Salón de la Fama del Turismo 2015

CaribPR Wire, PAGET, Bermudas, Oct. 13, 2015: El pasado sábado, la Asociación de Turismo de Hoteles y Restaurantes de Trinidad incluyó en el Salón de la Fama del Turismo 2015 al empresario/promotor hotelero caribeño John Jefferis, JP. Él es una de las dos únicas personas presentadas en la historia de este evento. El Salón de la Fama del Turismo reconoce y celebra a aquellas personas que han sobresalido en la industria de turismo y hotelería y cuyo trabajo duro, dedicación e innovación hacen de Trinidad y Tobago el destino predilecto de los turistas.

John Jefferis es dueño de Coco Reef – Bermudas, Coco Reef – Tobago y un número de otros negocios en la región del Caribe, incluyendo Cuba. Comenzó su carrera como lavaplatos a los 15 años de edad en un restaurante de pescado y papas fritas en Londres. Hoy en día, él es el presidente y único accionista de Palm Reef Hotel Development Company Limited, Coco Reef Resorts Ltd, the Caribbean Construction Company, Island Resorts International Ltd e Inflite Catering, una compañía de catering para aerolíneas que opera en Bermudas y Tobago.

El señor Jefferis, antiguo presidente y director general de la Asociación de Hoteles de Bermudas, fue la fuerza que impulsó la incorporación de Las Bermudas a la Asociación de Hoteles del Caribe. Se convirtió en el presidente de la Asociación de Hoteles del Caribe desde 1996 a 1998 y en director general desde 1998 hasta 2000. Durante su presidencia, el señor Jefferis visitó casi todas las islas miembros de la Asociación del Caribe. Durante sus discursos ante las Asociaciones de Hoteles de la Isla, su mantra fue “Sin una industria hotelera vibrante y lucrativa un país nunca podrá tener una industria turística exitosa”.

En 2011, el señor Jefferis fue designado subdirector general de la Junta de Turismo de Bermudas. Asimismo, se desempeñó como director general del Comité de Juegos de la Junta de Turismo de Bermudas.

“Nos sentimos orgullosos de reconocer los 50 años de contribución sustancial y sostenida de John Jefferis para con el liderazgo, servicio y éxito en la industria del turismo y hotelería de Trinidad y Tobago”, indicó Andrew Welch, presidente de la Asociación de Turismo de Hoteles y Restaurantes de Trinidad. “El Comité Evaluador de Galardones reconoce la contribución de John al crecimiento del sector de turismo y hotelería de Trinidad y Tobago mediante la innovación y las prácticas empresariales astutas. El señor Jefferis ha dejado un duradero y positivo legado dentro de su organización, así como con la gente con la que ha trabajado. Coco Reef Resorts ha contribuido significativamente a la mejora y el reconocimiento de Tobago como destino turístico.”

El señor Jefferis estudió en la Universidad de Birmingham donde fue galardonado con el premio nacional del Instituto de Hotelería y Catering como el mejor estudiante de administración del último año. Como resultado de este galardón, fue capaz de asegurar una pasantía en el Hotel Savoy en Londres. Luego se mudó a Bermudas donde fue empleado como gerente adjunto júnior en el Hotel Belmont. Luego fue promovido a gerente general en Belmont y fue la persona más joven en obtener ese puesto.

A continuación, el señor Jefferis fue nombrado director gerente y un miembro de la Junta de Directores de Elbow Beach Hotel and Development Company. Durante su tiempo en Elbow Beach, las acciones del mercado y la reputación del hotel incrementaron dramáticamente, haciéndolo el hotel más lucrativo y exitoso de Bermudas.

El señor Jefferis también fue dueño de Edgehill Manor, Roxy’s Night Club y el Hotel Palm Reef, los mismos que vendería después. Fue el accionista mayoritario en la Corporación Haley, que fue por muchos años el operador de tours más grande de Bermudas y su fuente más importante de turistas.

En 1992, el señor Jefferis comenzó el diseño, los planes de desarrollo, el financiamiento y la construcción de Coco Reef – Tobago de $82 millones, el mismo que se convirtió en una de las propiedades más exitosas del Caribe. Un reconocido operador turístico/ejecutivo de aerolíneas del Caribe, señaló: “Sin Coco Reef no existiría el turismo en Tobago”.

En las reuniones de orientación del personal después de la apertura de Coco Reef – Tobago, la esencia de los comentarios iniciales del señor Jefferis fue: “Estamos en el negocio del teatro. Mi trabajo es gastar mucho dinero en crear una hermosa escenografía para nuestros huéspedes. Ustedes son los actores y actrices, muchos de ustedes se convertirán en estrellas. Siempre debemos recordar que solo somos tan buenos como la percepción que nuestros clientes tengan de nuestro último desempeño”. Su filosofía sobre reclutamiento de personal quedo establecida con el gran signo sobre la puerta de la oficina del gerente general: “Contratar la actitud – Capacitar las aptitudes”.

En 2003, el señor Jefferis adquirió el Hotel Stonington Beach ubicado en la playa más famosa de Bermudas el cual experimentó una reconstrucción, renovación y remodelación de $14.3 millones para abrir como Coco Reef – Bermudas en 2004.

Como respuesta a esta introducción al Salón de la Fama del Turismo, John Jefferis dijo: “Habiendo dedicado mi carrera a la industria de la hotelería y el turismo, es un honor ser incluido en el Salón de la Fama de la Asociación de Turismo de Hoteles y Restaurantes de Trinidad. Crear nuevas y memorables experiencias y actualizar y rediseñar continuamente mis hoteles para nuestros huéspedes es mi pasión y siempre me siento honrado al ser reconocido por hacer lo que más amo”.

El señor Jefferis ha ganado innumerables premios y galardones que incluyen: el primer “Empresario Hotelero del Año en Bermudas” de la Asociación de Hoteles de Bermudas en 1989, “Empresario Hotelero del Año en el Caribe” de la Asociación de Hoteles del Caribe en 1991, el “Premio al Empresario del Año en el Caribe” de Ernst and Young en 2000 y el “Premio honorífico a toda una vida en Turismo y Viaje” de Caribbean World en 2008. Recientemente, en 2014 fue nombrado el “Empresario del Año” de International Caribbean Life. Además, Coco Reef – Tobago ganó el premio World Travel Award por el “Hotel más importante del Caribe” por los últimos 11 años.

Contactos con los medios de comunicación:
Elizabeth Tee
Troncossi Public Relations
(441) 292-5838
[email protected]

NEW YORK, Oct. 6, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Mutual of America Life Insurance Company, which specializes in providing retirement products and related services to organizations and their employees, as well as to individuals, announced the appointment of Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick to its Board of Directors.

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A native of Port of Spain, Trinidad, Dr. Frederick is the 17^th President of Howard University in Washington D.C., a world-renowned academic and research institution committed to academic excellence and access to an affordable education. Prior to his appointment as President, he served as Interim President, Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Associate Dean in the College of Medicine, Division Chief in the Department of Surgery, Director of the Cancer Center and Deputy Provost for Health Sciences.

“I am delighted that Dr. Frederick has joined the Company’s Board of Directors,” said Thomas Moran, Chairman and CEO of Mutual of America. “His leadership and extensive experience in the education and healthcare sectors, keen understanding of the challenges facing our country and dedicated service to ensure the betterment of society, will be an asset to the Company as we continue our commitment to help individuals plan for a financially secure future.”

A triple alumnus of Howard University, Dr. Frederick earned a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Medicine and completed his surgical residency training at Howard University Hospital. He also earned a Master of Business Administration. He began his academic career as Associate Director of the Cancer Center at University of Connecticut, where he also served on the Department of Surgery faculty, before returning to Howard University in 2006.

As a distinguished researcher and surgeon, Dr. Frederick is the author of numerous peer-reviewed works. He has received many awards honoring his outstanding scholarship and service. In June 2014, the United States Congress recognized him for his contributions in addressing health disparities among African-Americans and historically underrepresented groups by awarding him the Congressional Citation for Distinguished Service.

About Mutual of America

Since 1945, Mutual of America has remained committed to offering plan sponsors, plan participants and individuals carefully selected, quality products and services at a competitive price as well as the personal attention they need to help build and preserve assets for a financially secure future. For more information, visit mutualofamerica.com.

CONTACT: Kieran O’Dwyer, 212-224-1743