Posts Tagged ‘Caribbean’

Flex Seal Expands Retailers in the Caribbean

WESTON, Fla., May 3, 2022 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – The global Flex Seal® Family of Products is filling gaps, cracks and holes across the Caribbean. And many of their products are now available at a variety of retailers in Barbados, Bermuda, Guyana, Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, and St. Lucia.

Available products include Flex Seal, Flex Tape®, Flex Glue®, Flex Seal Liquid®, Flex Shot® and the Flex Seal Mini® products, each in a variety of their respective colors. These products are available at over 30 locations in-store and on some websites.

“The whole Flex Seal Family joins me in the excitement of this new opportunity and growth for our company,” said Phil Swift, CEO, Inventor and Spokesperson. “We are proud to partner with these new retailers and expand our offering of products to more countries globally.”

It’s important to protect your home and property during the storm season, and The Flex Seal Family of Products is there for you. Each product is useful for a variety of fixes and weatherizing around the home.

About The Flex Seal Family of Products
Swift Response, LLC is the distributor and marketer of The Flex Seal® Family of Products. Founded in 2011, the company provides a variety of DIY home repair and maintenance products specializing in waterproofing, adhesive, bonding and sealing.

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Caribbean Nationals Wanted For Heart Study

CaribPR Wire, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Sat. Jan. 22, 2022: A US study is putting the spotlight on Afro-Caribbean nationals who have heart disease, or have been diagnosed with Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy, (ATTR-CM).

Afro-Caribbeans with lived experiences can now share their story via a national, qualitative study and get paid if they are considered a good candidate.

The national study is intended to deepen understanding of Afro-Caribbean people suffering heart issues, including heart failure and related health conditions, such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, etc.

“We are focused on the Afro-Caribbean community due to a higher prevalence of heart failure and specifically Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM),” said Donna Fullerton, Research Partner at Now What. “It is well-established that the broader Black community is disproportionately affected by ATTR-CM, which is driving our attention here. We are looking to speak with, hear stories from, and understand the nuances within the Black community so that future communications and resources around disease awareness and treatment options will be culturally relevant and appropriate and hopefully lessen the health disparities we see today.”

To qualify, Afro-Caribbeans must be between ages 45-75, live in the US, and have been diagnosed with heart failure. Qualified participants will be paid $200 compensation for 2.5 hours of engagement, answering questions and completing activities over a computer or smartphone.

Participants who make the first round of the study, must also be open to take part in a follow-up 75-minute zoom call, for an additional $150.

If you feel you qualify, complete a short pre-qualification survey at: tinyurl.com/heartresearch before January 31st.

“The online exercises will ask people questions about their culture, their community, their thoughts about health and the healthcare system, and their experiences living with a heart condition,” added Fullerton. “All of our questions are designed to be respectful and empathetic – we only ask people to share what they are comfortable sharing and always respect people’s privacy.”

Heart diseases, such has coronary heart disease and heart failure, are more common in Blacks, than other ethnic groups — and so are the other cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and peripheral artery disease. Health issues like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes can increase a person’s risk of heart failure. People of African heritage have higher rates of heart failure, hospitalization and death from the disease, according to national data.

Although care of patients with Heart Failure, HF, has improved in the past decade, important disparities in HF outcomes persist based on race/ethnicity. Recent scientific data shows that age-adjusted HF-related cardiovascular disease death rates are higher for Black patients, particularly among young Black men and women whose rates of death are 2.6- and 2.97-fold higher, respectively, than White men and women.

Similarly, the rate of HF hospitalization for Black men and women is nearly 2.5-fold higher when compared with Whites, with costs that are significantly higher in the first year after HF hospitalization.

While the relative rate of HF hospitalization has improved for other race/ethnic minorities, the disparity in HF hospitalization between Black and White patients has not decreased during the last decade.

The ultimate goal of this ongoing, targeted research is to learn from and speak with members of the Afro-Caribbean community so that future communications and resources around disease awareness and treatment options will be culturally relevant and appropriate, in order to hopefully lessen the health disparities currently.

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As Mid-Terms Gear Up A Caribbean American Voter Leverages Educational Products To Empower The Disenfranchised

CARIBPRWIRE, WASHINGTON D.C., Thurs, January 6, 2022: Caribbean-born, US voter, Juliette Adams, a thought advocate and creator of The Frederick Press, has launched a creative, civic education tri-initiative to empower the politically disenfranchised in the U.S.

Launched on January 1, 2022, Education/Actions/Self-Investments, (EASI), was created within the framework of the Gifted & Magical 95 Percent (G&M 95%) series, a five-book political tool kit.

As Congresswoman Yvette Clarke highlighted at the Caribbean American Voter 2020 Townhall, low self-esteem contributes to the community political apathy, a feeling of powerlessness, and hopelessness, disenfranchisement and damaging the direction of one’s destiny in democracy.

Deployment of an EASI vehicle assists as an educational solution, said Adams.

The Funding vehicles, ‘A Human Capital Star – Civic Education Thought Initiative,’ is on Kickstarter and continues through January 28th.

‘Gifting Knowledge For Democracy Preservation,’ is on GoFundMe and ‘Legislative Input – Powering Economic Democracy,’ on Indiegogo, continues through February.

The community can opt to become revitalizing democracy players through creative and innovative civic education advocacy with the projected mid-term sweep of the House and Senate seats by Republicans.

Adams believes that a fundamental reason for Caribbean-American political firsts is their personalized cultural democracy, strong spirituality, love of freedom, and high education prioritization. Firsts include Caribbean American Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm (D – NY), Vice-President Kamala Harris, whose roots extend to Jamaica, (D), Congresswoman Mia Love, whose roots extend to Haiti, (R – UT) , and Lieutenant Governor-Elect, Jamaican Winsome Sears (R -VA).

EASI also applies to the underserved white community, evident in the September 18, 2021 rally. It highlights the powerful Trademark of Education in competitive politics, as the issue unexpectedly switched the VA governorship to Republican Glenn Youngkin and his running mate, Caribbean American Winsome Sears.

If the Virginia “Education” win directs mid-term campaigns, the Caribbean American community has an EASI route to be recognized for its substantial contributions, and the influence to direct national and regional policy, said Adams.

The Caribbean American thought advocate added: “It manifests Warren Buffett’s words: ‘Philanthropy is harder than business. You are tackling important problems that people with intellect and money have tackled in the past and had a tough time solving. So, the search for talent in Philanthropy should be more important than the search for talent in investment.’”

Educate, Inform, Embolden, Engage/Empower the EASI way, said Adams. “Support an EASI Grassroots Philanthropic Civic Education today.”

MEDIA CONTACT

Juliette Adams

202-733-0408

[email protected]

The Frederick Press


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Chuck E. Cheese Signs New Development Agreements In Qatar, Suriname And Guyana

Three new countries will soon experience the world’s number one family entertainment restaurant brand, Chuck E. Cheese, adding to an already rapid expansion story for Chuck E. Cheese internationally

DALLAS, Dec. 6, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Chuck E. Cheese, the global family entertainment brand, continues to drive international expansion and has successfully signed development agreements in three new countries across South America and in the Middle East. This adds to the rapid ongoing international expansion of the brand already announced in new regions like Egypt, Morocco, Romania and Kuwait, and sets Chuck E. Cheese on track to have over 100 international locations by 2022.

Chuck E. Cheese

“Investors and entrepreneurs continue to recognize Chuck E. Cheese as a high ROI opportunity within their local markets,” says Arun Barnes, COO & SVP of international development for CEC Entertainment. “With a unique business model that is unmatched in the Family Entertainment Center (FEC) landscape, we are the brand that can have an immediate impact in almost any country around the globe, while providing a reliable cash flow for franchise partners who have a passion for family entertainment.”

One of the most effective avenues of growth is through existing franchisees who see success in their own regions, such as franchise partner Joanna Rostant of Yay! Entertainment in Trinidad & Tobago who has signed to expand the brand through sub franchising into Guyana and Suriname. The first site at Suriname is under construction and scheduled to open in the first half of 2022.

Joanna Rostant stated, “We are thrilled to partner through a sub franchise arrangement with Sasja Lie Pauw Sam and his team at Blue Falcon N.V. to bring the joy of Chuck E. Cheese to families in Suriname. We note with confidence Suriname’s recent discovery of substantial volumes of hydrocarbons, and in keeping with the recent IMF forecasts, believe that Suriname will experience strong positive economic growth in the next couple of years. For these and other socio-economic reasons, we believe that the world’s leading family entertainment brand will be thoroughly enjoyed by children and families in Suriname.”

“It makes sense for Caribbean markets, and we are thrilled that Joanna’s strong operating model has positioned her company well to achieve and lead this exciting expansion. We look forward to her success in Suriname, and later in Guyana,” added Arun Barnes.

In addition to the Caribbean, Chuck E. Cheese has also partnered with new franchise partners, Benchmark Hospitality Services, to expand new locations across Qatar throughout the next few years.

“Working with the CEC International team is a pleasure,” said Yanni Jouaneh, franchise owner and CEO of Benchmark Hospitality Services. “They have great systems and processes to support international franchising, and our business feasibility survey of the brand showcased a unique opportunity to bring in a highly profitable brand into Qatar’s exciting market landscape. There is no other brand that offers a great mix of games, food, entertainment and birthday parties. Qatari families with kids will soon experience the joy of Chuck E. Cheese nearer to their home.”

For franchising interests or to learn more about how to bring the joy and profits of Chuck E. Cheese to your market, please visit the all-new international franchising website where you can discover all of the latest news and exciting expansion plans.

About CEC Entertainment, Inc.

CEC Entertainment is the nationally recognized leader in family entertainment and dining with its Chuck E. Cheese, Peter Piper Pizza and, delivery only, Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings brands. As the place where a million happy birthdays are celebrated every year, Chuck E. Cheese’s goal is to create positive, lifelong memories for families through entertainment, food and play. Committed to providing a fun, safe environment, Chuck E. Cheese helps protect families through industry-leading programs such as Kid Check®. As a strong advocate for its local communities, Chuck E. Cheese has donated more than $19 million to schools through its fundraising programs. The Company and its franchisees operate a system of nearly 600 Chuck E. Cheese and 120 Peter Piper Pizza venues, with locations in 47 states and 17 foreign countries and territories. For more information, visit our website or connect with us on social media.

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Ankura Appoints Fernando Batlle as First LATAM Chairman

Brings Wealth of Management Experience to Expansion Efforts in Latin America & the Caribbean

NEW YORK, Oct. 4, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Ankura Consulting, a global expert services and advisory firm, today announced the appointment of Fernando Batlle as the Firm’s first Chairman of its Latin America & Caribbean (LATAM) region. Mr. Batlle’s new position as LATAM Chairman underscores Ankura’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the region and to offering an expansive suite of solutions for clients across the world.

Ankura (PRNewsfoto/Ankura)

“We are thrilled to have an experienced executive like Fernando lead our growing LATAM team. This is a critically important region to many of our clients, and Fernando’s addition bolsters our ability to support them in the market,” said Ankura’s Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Lavin. “Fernando brings broad industry expertise complemented by a deep connection to and knowledge of the regional landscape, and truly embodies the collaborative culture at Ankura.”

Prior to his appointment as LATAM Chairman, Mr. Batlle served as a Senior Managing Director at Ankura and helped establish the Firm’s position in the turnaround and restructuring market. He holds three decades of leadership and executive experience in both the private and public sector, with a proven track record of executing turnarounds and growing businesses at high profile financial institutions. Mr. Batlle has provided strategic and financial advisory for the Government of Puerto Rico throughout the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history. He has held senior leadership positions in commercial and investment banking, securities brokerage, asset management, and public finance. His multiple areas of expertise encompass financial services, energy, capital markets, public-private partnerships, implementation of performance improvement and major transformation initiatives and debt restructuring. He has extensive experience advising governments, state-owned entities, and businesses on strategic and financial matters from development of comprehensive financial plans to economic strategy, debt management strategy, and governance.

“I look forward to growing our team and presence in Latin America and the Caribbean so that we are optimally positioned to address the complex business and financial issues our current and prospective clients face in the region,” said Mr. Batlle. “I’m honored to assume this new position and to advance the Firm’s commitment to developing innovative solutions and driving impactful results for our clients’ continued success around the world.”

Mr. Batlle holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BS from Northeastern University.

About Ankura

Ankura Consulting Group, LLC is an independent global expert services and advisory firm that delivers services and end-to-end solutions to help clients at critical inflection points related to change, risk, disputes, finance, performance, distress, and transformation. The Ankura team consists of more than 1,500 professionals in 34 offices globally who are leaders in their respective fields and areas of expertise. Collaborative lateral thinking, hard-earned experience, expertise, and multidisciplinary capabilities drive results and Ankura is unrivaled in its ability to assist clients to Protect, Create and Recover value. For more information, please visit, www.ankura.com

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Caribbean Celebrities Are New “Disaster Fighters” For 2021 Hurricane Season

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. May 31, 2021: A slew of leading Caribbean celebrities have adopted the new title of “Disaster Fighters” ahead of the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which climate scientists forecast will be above normal.

Top West Indian cricketers and music stars are joining arms as the new “Disaster Fighters” with The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the regional inter-governmental agency for disaster management in the Caribbean Community, (CARICOM).

The creative campaign to fighting disasters this season, kicks off today, May 31, 2021, one day ahead of the start of the hurricane season, and aims at reiterating the importance of Caribbean nationals to be prepared, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

West Indian cricketers, DJ Bravo, Darren Ganga and Stacey-Ann King of Trinidad and Tobago; Jamaica’s Chris Gayle; St. Lucia’s Darren Sammy, and St. Kitts & Nevis’ Kieran Powell, have joined forces with retired celebrity cricketing great, Sir Gary Sobers of Barbados and former cricketer turned music star Omari Banks of Anguilla, as well as musicians Mr Killa of Grenada, Tafa Mi Soleil of Haiti and Ricky T and QPID of St. Lucia, for the May 31st campaign kick-off.

The new CDEMA ground-breaking initiative, supported by the Africa Caribbean Pacific – European Union Natural Disaster Risk Reduction (ACP-EU NDRR) Program, the Canada Caribbean Resilience Facility, the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (managed by the World Bank), and Binance Charity, aims at increasing community preparedness and resilience to risks, such as hurricanes, volcanoes, COVID-19, and other natural hazards affecting the Caribbean region, through a catchy disaster prevention song and music video that will be promoted on social media.

The month-long campaign that coincides with the beginning of the annual hurricane season and will feature important preparedness messages alongside the campaign song and music video on Tik Tok, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, as well as the campaign’s website, disaster-fighters.org.

In an unprecedented move for the campaign, CDEMA will implement its first-ever Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) marketplace to raise donations and support disaster preparedness and disasters in the region. Participating musicians, cricketers and other celebrities will donate signed balls, t-shirts and various memorabilia including exclusive, limited-edition collectibles, that will be auctioned to the public as part of the initiative’s fundraising efforts. Items will include unique, personalized messages from the “Disaster Fighters” celebrity team.

Fans and the public are encouraged to show their support for the initiative by purchasing collectibles signed by their favorite celebrities to assist CDEMA in the important and meaningful work it does.

“Many Caribbean countries have been battling the compound impacts of drought, COVID-19, volcanic eruptions and now hurricane season,” said Elizabeth Riley, Executive Director (ag), CDEMA. “We wanted to use an innovative, inclusive approach to ensure that communities are empowered with the necessary plans, information and tools to tackle the disaster impacts that we as a region have been facing.”

Tahseen Sayed, World Bank Country Director for the Caribbean, added: “The past year has been very challenging for the Caribbean. Although much of the region has managed the health effects of the pandemic through early actions, the socioeconomic impacts have been severe. It is more important than ever this year for Caribbean countries and people to be well-prepared for the hurricane season. We are pleased to support this innovative new campaign from CDEMA that aims to help communities protect themselves and their livelihoods.”

For more log on the initiative and the marketplace log on to disaster-fighters.org or on  Tik Tok, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

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The Future of Barbados Does Not Include Waste

An exciting and important project has been approved by the Government of Barbados; the project, a cooperation between the Sanitation Service Authority (SSA) and Barbadian company Prosource Limited, will completely transform residential waste collection in the country.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, May 7, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Waste management is a significant challenge for any society. An appropriate waste management strategy mitigates public health risks, contributes to sustained economic activity, and enhances Public welfare generally. While waste management is one of the least recognized public policy issues in the Caribbean, with the implementation of this project, Barbados will have a world-leading and technology-driven solution for the efficient collection of residential waste.

Minister of the Environment and National Beautification, Hon. Adrian Forde, M.P. observed, “The consequences of COVID 19, climate change and the ash fall caused by the recent eruption of the La Soufriere volcano only serves to underscore the importance of solid waste management and the need for efficient waste collection in Barbados. One of the most important tenets of sustainable development is a partnership, whether with private entities, community groups or individuals. The health and safety of our people are paramount in our environmental planning and development. This project will ensure our streets, beaches, ecosystems, wetlands and other areas of biodiversity are maintained. I am eagerly looking forward to this seamless transformation at SSA. My Friends, this is who we are.”

The project is a cooperation between the Sanitation Service Authority (SSA) and Barbadian company Prosource Limited, which will vastly improve the efficiency, reliability, and regularity of waste collections. Prosource Limited, whose expertise lies in the residential, commercial, and industrial waste sector, will provide and implement a fully managed end to end solution for the country. Prosource Limited is a part of the Innotech Group and has successfully completed similar projects in the region. In 2020, the Solid Waste Management Corporation of St. Kitts engaged the company to undertake an island-wide waste collection improvement project. David Tomlinson, Director of Prosource Limited, explained how it works for the people of Barbados. “Each household in Barbados will be provided, free of charge, with a standardized Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) enabled 65-gallon roll-out cart for general waste and an 18-gallon bin to be used for commingled recycling. In addition, all the SSA’s collection compactor trucks will be retrofitted with market-leading equipment for mechanically lifting the carts. The RFID readers installed on the trucks will track collection activity, improve collection efficiency, and the in-cab route optimization and management solution will also benefit drivers whilst reducing SSA’s operational cost. Once implemented, the residential waste collection methodology for Barbados will change from a manual system to a much more efficient and safer mechanical operation.” The solution includes a specialist software system capable of tracking, monitoring, and providing analytics for waste collection services and operations. It also allows for automated work orders and asset inventory management. Households will now also have a convenient way to dispose of recyclables using the new recyclable bin provided by the SSA.

It is not just the public who will benefit from this project, according to SSA Chairman Ramon Alleyne. “This project will not only allow our team to be better equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technology, we will be able to deliver a higher standard of service to the public. Just as importantly, it will ensure safer, healthier and better working conditions for SSA’s workers who provide this critical service to the country.”

A cleaner Barbados will also be a benefit for the island’s tourism promotion efforts. A modern and progressive way of keeping the island environmentally friendly and clean can be a competitive edge for a destination, especially with health being a paramount consideration of travelers in deciding where to visit. Chairman of Innotech Group, Anthony Da Silva, stated, “This groundbreaking initiative is a huge win for the island, both for our people and our key industries such as tourism. It is innovative projects such as these that will hopefully serve as a model for the region. We must not overlook the importance of waste management and recycling, and this public health project is evidence that we are serious about making the improvements and investments necessary.”

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Most Anticipated Film “THE RANSOM” – Exploring Haitian History – Will Tell The Stories Of The Indigenous Taíno And The African Experience In The Caribbean

CaribPR Wire, Boston, Mass., Mon. Mar. 15, 2021: Award-winning filmmaker, writer, and producer, Jonas Nosile, invites the Haitian and Caribbean community to bring to life The Ransom.

This new film dramatizes a difficult and tumultuous journey of human suffering and resiliency, throwing light on the brutality faced by Taíno and African slaves in Hispaniola, while ending on a hopeful and positive note.

“Society has made great progress and come a long way, but this struggle for equality has been underway for more than 400 years—and still continues. The Ransom will show that the quest for equality is universal by telling the story of how, early in American history, a group of Africans brought to the Caribbean revolted to fight for their freedom and right this wrong,” said Nosile.

The Ransom tells this incredible story through Marie-Jeanne, a wealthy multi-racial Haitian woman living in France, who journeys back home for family affairs and is kidnapped. Her ransom, however, will require more than just money: she must travel back in time to reckon with her family’s complicity in Haiti’s tragic and violent history and face the truth about her own estrangement from her homeland. To be filmed in Panama and Haiti with ethnically accurate casting and with dialogue in English/Castellan/Spanish-Taíno creole/French, the movie will highlight the daily life of a once-thriving indigenous people and the desire for liberty of African slaves, all against the backdrop of the Caribbean sugar plantation system.

“As the world continues to deal with the negative effects of discrimination, racism, and imbalances of power, The Ransom provides a difficult but necessary reminder of the past and uses it as a catalyst for change. The rough yet resilient tale will tap the emotions of audiences around the world and keep this important part of our history alive. There couldn’t be a better time than now for a film with a social message,” said Nosile.

Jonas’s last project, “Haiti: Triumph, Sorrow, and the Struggle of a People,” won numerous awards, including the Associated Press Award for Best Documentary, and was nominated for an Emmy Award (Regional) in Outstanding Societal Concerns Programs. For The Ransom, he is teaming up with film veterans in Hollywood including veteran screenwriter Mark Richard, a former executive at LD Entertainment.

For more information about this film and to learn how the Haitian and Caribbean community can help bring it to fruition, visit http://theransommovie.com or email [email protected]

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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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University Canada West Promotes Women’s Leadership with virtual seminar and MBA Scholarship for Women

CaribPR Wire, TORONTO, Canada, Fri. Oct. 2, 2020: University Canada West (UCW) recently announced details on its next public program, a Women in Leadership virtual seminar with prominent Caribbean speaker: Lisandra Rickards on October 7th at 6pm EST. The featured topic is “Risk and Reward: Lessons from Caribbean Women in Entrepreneurship.”

In June 2020, the Vancouver-based UCW unveiled the Women in Leadership MBA Award, an MBA scholarship. This seminar further expands the university’s support of women leaders in this area.  The audience interested in registering for the seminar can sign up at: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_q5lpT5EnTAyr_4gwgUnIcA

As the talk is virtual, men and women across the Caribbean can log on to view this important and informative seminar. Speaking about the Women in Leadership MBA award, Brock Dykeman, UCW President said, “This is an important initiative for UCW and aligns with our goals to empower women to become business and community leaders. We hope to help develop future leaders through this unique initiative by providing them with the industry-relevant skills that employers are looking for in the fast-changing business and technology landscape.”

Speaker Lasandra Rickards is Founder and CEO of Soul Career, former CEO of the Richard Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship, and a Harvard MBA. As CEO of the Richard Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship, she coached over 220 entrepreneurs, created online programs for over 2,500 entrepreneurs, built a team of 12, and made the Centre a player in the venture capital space. With Soul Career, she helps executives, professionals and entrepreneurs lead authentically, and build powerful legacies.

Research shows that communities thrive and grow when women advance in their careers and run their own businesses.  UCW feels that these virtual seminars will provide women and men with tools to advance their leadership skills.

UCW is also of special interest to the Caribbean community because they offer the Americas Tuition, which provides tuition support for prospective students from North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. With the Americas Tuition award, students save up to 60% compared to regular international student’s tuition fees for UCW’s Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce and MBA degrees. UCW is offering the Americas Tuition Award for students starting in the intakes of January, April, July or October 2021.

Background:

University Canada West is a contemporary independent university located in the heart of vibrant Vancouver. Established in 2004, UCW offers a range of career-focused programs including the Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication, Associate of Arts and Master of Business Administration. Courses are offered at UCW´s two downtown Vancouver campus locations, as well as online.

The virtual seminar “Risk and Reward: Lessons from Caribbean Women in Entrepreneurship” is part of a Women in Leadership Seminar Series made up of four seminars focused on Mexico, South America, Brazil, and the Caribbean respectively. The registration link for the seminar is: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_q5lpT5EnTAyr_4gwgUnIcA

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Mastercard Study Shows Consumers in LAC Make the Move to Contactless Payments

Consumers cite simplicity, cleanliness and speed through checkout experience as contactless payments booster

– Mastercard champions effort to raise limits for contactless payment transactions across Latin America & Caribbean

MIAMI, April 30, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – During first quarter of 2020, as many countries imposed necessary restrictions on social distancing, a growing number of consumers in Latin America & Caribbean (LAC) turned to contactless payments for necessary purchases, a new Mastercard study shows. According to the survey, 35% of people in the region have increased their usage of contactless payments, citing simplicity, safety and cleanliness.

Consumer polling by Mastercard paints a picture of accelerated and sustained contactless adoption. This shift in consumer behavior is particularly clear at checkout as people express a desire for contactless cards and concerns over cleanliness and safety at the point of sale, according to the study. In fact, findings of the study show that the impact of social distancing and other safety guidelines on consumer payment behavior is extensive:

  • 56% of Latin Americans said they are more aware of dirtiness of cash.
  • 84% of Latin Americans believe contactless is a cleaner way to pay.

1.        Mastercard’s own initiatives, along with the intelligence of its technology, data analytics and investments in security, will continue to propel a world beyond cash. Already, more than half of consumers around the world (63%) are using cash less often, or not at all, since the pandemic began. The same is true in LAC, where on average 66% of consumers are using cash less often, or not at all:

  • 77% of Brazilians indicated that they are using cash less, or not at all, since the pandemic.
  • 61% of Colombians indicated that they are using cash less, or not at all, since the pandemic.
  • 68% of Costa Ricans indicated that they are using cash less, or not at all, since the pandemic.
  • 58% Dominican Republicans indicated that they are using cash less, or not at all, since the pandemic.

2.       Consumers are quickly appreciating the benefits of contactless payments with 79% across LAC finding them more secure when compared to keeping or paying with cash. Additionally, regional consumer polling by Mastercard indicated sustained contactless usage with consumers preferring the quick and efficient checkout experience.

  • 78% of Latin Americans indicated they will continue using contactless payments even after the pandemic is over.
  • The belief was even stronger among those under the age of 35, where 82% of this population indicated continued use post-COVID.

“As we all experience the first global pandemic in an age defined by the digitalization of our lives, contactless card payments have taken on a new urgency. It has been both encouraging and gratifying to see our partners throughout the LAC region adopt the changes and acceleration of contactless. The technology is available, and it’s clear that the change we are witnessing in consumer behavior is here to stay,” said Walter Pimenta, Senior Vice President, Products & Innovation, Mastercard Latin America and Caribbean.

Accelerating faster, cleaner, safer payments
Throughout the world, Mastercard has been spearheading the transition to contactless for more than 15 years, championing it as the simple, safe and fast way to pay. As a region with countries where contactless technologies are a newer experience, LAC has seen a rapid increase in infrastructure, with 75% of point of sale terminals ready to accept contactless transactions, and 60% of financial institutions issuing contactless-enabled cards.

In March, Mastercard led a move to increase the contactless payment limits across the LAC region as people looked for safer ways to pay in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, four countries have already raised their contactless payment limits including, Colombia, Argentina, Dominican Republic and Costa Rica, with many others expected to follow soon. The initiative is in line with similar actions taking place around the world as health officials recommend social distancing and a growing number of merchants are encouraging consumers to pay with contactless instead of cash to avoid contact.

“As the spread of COVID-19 highlights the steadfast mindset for ‘contact-free’ environments and experiences in many aspects of our lives, the increased interest in contactless payments is far reaching. We believe in providing consumers with the freedom of choice in how they pay and peace of mind when they pay. With increased convenience and security, we look forward to expanding the contactless footprint more than ever before,” added Pimenta.

Contactless Payments Growth
As consumers increasingly seek out ways to quickly get in and out of stores without touching terminals, Mastercard data reveals over 40% growth in contactless transactions globally in the first quarter of 20201. Further, 80% of contactless transactions are under $25, a range that is typically dominated by cash. LAC, a less mature region when it comes to contactless penetration, saw exponential growth, with contactless transactions up 500% overall since March of last year.

While countries worldwide are at different stages of contactless card deployment and usage for daily shopping habits, Mastercard’s insights on grocery and pharmacy trends – two areas where many day-to-day essentials are being purchased – showed that nearly all regions experienced significant spikes in February and March. Further, reinforcing changing behaviors and consumer checkout preferences, Mastercard saw the number of contactless card payments at grocery stores and pharmacies grow twice as fast as non-contactless transactions globally2.

Notes to Editors:

1 Growth calculated as the percentage increase in contactless transactions compared to the percentage increase in non-contactless transactions, comparing March 2020 to March 2019, at Grocery and Pharmacy categories

2Growth calculated as the percentage increase in contactless transactions compared to the percentage increase in non-contactless transactions, comparing March 2020 to February 2020, at Grocery and Pharmacy categories

Survey Methodology

  • Online interviews of 17,000 consumers in 19 countries worldwide
  • 1,000 banked respondents per country in the US and Canada (North America); Australia, Singapore (Asia Pacific); UAE, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, South Africa (Middle East and Africa); UK, Italy, France, German, Spain, Poland, Russia, the Netherlands (Europe).
  • 500 banked respondents per country in Brazil, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, and Colombia (Latin America and the Caribbean)
  • Research conducted April 10-12, 2020
  • Nationally representative sample
  • Readable sample sizes of:
    • Gen Z/Millennials
    • Affluent [defined at a country level]
    • Contactless users
    • Primary shoppers
    • Those with high levels of concern about Covid-19

About Mastercard
Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1162232/Contactless_Infographic_LAC_ENG_Infographic.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1162156/mc_symbol_Logo.jpg

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FRANCES-ANNE SOLOMON’S HERO OPENS LA’S 28th ANNUAL PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL

Caribbean Film Hero To Open LA’s 28th Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival

HERO_Castle_groupShot

CaribPR Wire, Weds. January 8, 2020 (Toronto, ON) – CaribbeanTales Media Group, California Pictures and Imagine Media International announce the screening of their feature film HERO: Inspired by The Extraordinary Life and Times of Ulric Cross directed by Canadian-Caribbean filmmaker Frances-Anne Solomon at the Opening Night of the Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) on Tuesday February 11th, 2020 at the Directors Guild of America Theater, 7920 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles.

“To be selected as the opening film for this prestigious festival is an honour,” says Solomon. “It’s a go-to event for Black Hollywood and to be recognized in this way by an audience of my peers is important to me as a Caribbean filmmaker of African descent.”

PAFF is the largest Black film festival in America with approximately 200 films from around the world and 100 fine artists participating in the largest Black History Month cultural event in the United States. The festival will be held from February 11 – February 23, 2020 at the Cinemark Rave 15 Theaters and the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) designated PAFF as an official qualifying film festival for live action and animation short films.

“We are very excited to screen HERO and share the triumphs and victories of Judge Ulric Cross and his Pan African brothers, which led to the creation of our modern world. It is truly an honour for me personally, as well as the Pan African Film Festival to present and create awareness about this great, important, enriching and entertaining story,” said Ayuko Babu, executive director of PAFF.

HERO is inspired by the extraordinary life and times of Trinidad and Tobago citizen, diplomat and judge Ulric Cross, the most decorated West Indian of World War II. He was a member of the highly decorated group of Caribbean pilots who flew combat missions for the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF) in World War II. After his service, Cross went on to play an active and important role in the Pan African Movement, which led to the creation of the 28 modern Caribbean and 54 modern African nations.

HERO--Official-Poster

“I first had the opportunity to see Hero in London’s Piccadilly Circus and was captivated by the depth and flavors of Ulric Cross’ life,” says Steven Istock of California Pictures. “I immediately knew I wanted to be involved in helping spread awareness of this great man’s story and impact around the world.”

Funded by Canada’s Telefilm and Trinidad’s Republic Bank, HERO boasts an all-star international cast that includes Trinidad and Tobago’s Nickolai Salcedo , in the lead role of Ulric Cross, alongside Canada’s Peter Williams ( Stargate SG1 ), UK stars Joseph Marcell ( Fresh Prince of Bel Air ), Fraser James ( Resident Evil ), Pippa Nixon ( John Carter ), and Ghanaian superstars John Dumelo, Adjetey Anang and Prince David Oseia.

“PAFF is an important platform in the US for our film HERO, which has captured the imagination of viewing audiences around the world,” said Executive Producer Lisa Wickham of Imagine Media International. “We are thrilled at the auspicious recognition it has received as the Opening Film for PAFF 2020.

An award-winning filmmaker, producer, curator and entrepreneur, Solomon is a 2019 member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences . HERO is her third feature film and has received critical acclaim on its worldwide tour, that has included a theatrical run in the U.K. Following a successful career as a TV Drama Producer and Executive Producer with the BBC in England, Solomon launched the CaribbeanTales Media Group in Canada and Barbados that includes an international film festival and distribution company. Full bio: www.francesannesolomon.com

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

For media inquiries and interviews with Frances-Anne Solomon contact:

Fennella Bruce |647.290.7610 | [email protected]

FOLLOW HERO ON SOCIAL:

Facebook: @Hero4Alltime

Instagram: @Hero_Film

Twitter: @Hero_Film

Visit the HERO Website

HERO World Tour Official Trailer

CaribbeanTales (CTMG) is a group of media companies that produces, markets, exhibits and distributes Caribbean-themed films from around the world, including CaribbeanTales Inc – a registered Charity in Canada, and CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution. Activities include The CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF), now in its 15th year; the renowned CaribbeanTales Incubator Program (CTI) – a year-round development and production hub for Caribbean, Diaspora, and diverse Producers; CaribbeanTales-TV a VOD streaming service; and CaribbeanTalesFlix, its production arm. More info at www.caribbeantales.org

About California Pictures

California Pictures was originally founded in 1944 by Howard Hughes and Academy Award winner Preston Sturges and reincorporated in 2008 by Steven Istock. The company is focused on creating great movies and television content with dynamic characters, strong and personally identifiable themes and powerful journeys for a worldwide audience.

California Pictures is an international production and distribution company, exhibiting and selling independent films across the world. They produce and sell films at the Cannes, American, Berlin and Hong Kong film markets and represent a diverse group of filmmakers and projects from around the world including England, China, India, Jamaica, Mongolia, Canada, Denmark, Australia, South Africa, Scotland, Nigeria, Russia, Barbados, Columbia, and Cambodia.

About Imagine Media

Imagine Media International Limited is an award-winning, full-service, production Company, based in Trinidad and Tobago and South Africa. Founded by award-winning, Producer-Director & Media Personality Lisa Wickham, the Company provides content creation across all media platforms, event management, marketing & PR Services, graphic design and training & consultancy. Imagine Media has developed and coordinated projects in Europe, North America, Africa and several Caribbean countries.

About The Pan African Film Festival

Over the past 27 years, The Pan African Film & Arts Festival has sought to increase cultural awareness and bridge diverse communities from the African diaspora by providing a creative safe space for the development and expression of the Black narrative through film, poetry, art and music.

PAFF’s legacy is evidenced by the success of storytellers and award-winning actors and actresses who’ve spotlighted their work at the festival, including such names as Denzel Washington, Kevin Hart, Jamie Foxx, Ryan Coogler, Alfre Woodard, Ava Duvernay and countless others. The festival’s platform proudly serves as a conduit for the careers of thousands of talented actors, actresses, directors, producers and executives; many of whom have gone on to win the industry’s top honors.

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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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Archipelago International Expands Portfolio in Cuba

Now Open: Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa

JAKARTA, Indonesia, July 29, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Archipelago International, Southeast Asia’s largest independent hotel group, today announced the signing of a Management Contract with Grupo de Turismo Gaviota S.A, for the 5 Star Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa in Cuba. The signing ceremony took place recently in Havana, Cuba.

Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa

Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa is located in the Northern Cayos of Cuba on Las Brujas Island, adjacent to Cayo Santa Maria. The resort is comprised of 727 rooms and suites, family and adult-only areas, five swimming pools, eclectic dining offerings, a ‘Technogym’ equipped fitness center, water sports, tennis, multi-sport areas and Cuba’s only Balinese-themed spa together with its own Pueblo (resort village with even more dining choices, a lively Salsa venue, the island’s most happening beach bar, a bowling alley and a variety of shops). The resort also has its own 3 km long private beach.

Archipelago has been brought in to maximise the potential of this wonderful new resort and will apply its proven operational, technical and training capabilities. The resort will provide guests with a multitude of choices and experiences throughout their stay, and will imbue a sense of our Southeast Asian heritage“, commented Gerard Byrne, Managing Director, Archipelago Overseas.

We are delighted to debut in Cuba and are honoured to be part of Grupo de Turismo Gaviota’s growing international family. Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa is a truly remarkable resort. Cuban hospitality services, combined with international management expertise, will ensure a memorable all-inclusive experience for its guests“, commented John Flood, President & CEO, Archipelago International.

Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa is Archipelago’s second project in Cuba. Its first, Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort, is currently under construction and is expected to open in 2021.

About Archipelago International
Archipelago International is one of Southeast Asia’s largest operators of hotels, resorts and residences with more than 145 operating hotels (20,000 rooms) and a further 100+ properties under development across Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East and the Caribbean. Its 10 multi award winning brands are Aston, Huxley, Alana, The Aston Heritage Collection, Kamuela, Harper, Quest, Neo, favehotels and Nomad.

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Caribbean Countries Agree to Protect Endangered Largetooth Sawfish

Dutch Proposal to List the Species under the Cartagena Convention Succeeds

ROATÁN, Honduras, June 5, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, on World Environment Day, the critically endangered largetooth sawfish gained a lifeline as Caribbean countries unanimously agreed to add the species to Annex II of the Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) Protocol under the Cartagena Convention. Seventeen member governments are thereby obligated to impose strict national protections for the species and cooperate regionally to recover populations.

“We are pleased that governments from across the Caribbean have seen the value of saving the iconic and irreplaceable largetooth sawfish from further regional extinction,” said Olga Koubrak, legal advisor for Sealife Law. “Sawfish are among the world’s most endangered marine species and urgently need strict legal protections wherever they remain.”

All five sawfish species worldwide are classified as Endangered or Critically Endangered under the IUCN Red List. Largetooth and smalltooth sawfish were once common in the Caribbean but are now seriously depleted. The smalltooth sawfish was added to SPAW Annex II in 2017. Caribbean countries thought to still have sawfish in their waters include the Bahamas, Cuba, Colombia, and Costa Rica. The level of national sawfish protection varies, however, and regional conservation initiatives are lacking.

“Today’s decision is warranted and welcome, as time is running out for sawfish,” said Sonja Fordham, president of Shark Advocates International. “The success of this measure depends on prompt and robust implementation of associated conservation commitments. We thank the Netherlands for proposing sawfish listing and urge continued engagement to ensure sawfish protection programs are developed across the Caribbean, before it’s too late.”

Found globally in warm waters, sawfish can grow to nearly 20 feet. Like other rays, low reproductive rates leave them exceptionally vulnerable to overfishing. Incidental catch is the main threat to sawfish; their tooth-studded snouts are easily entangled in nets. Despite increasing protections, sawfish parts are used for curios, food, medicine, and cockfighting. Habitat degradation also jeopardizes survival.

Sealife Law (SL) brings legal information and education to ocean conservation. Shark Advocates International (SAI) advances science-based policies for sharks and rays. SL and SAI have joined with marine researchers from Havenworth Coastal Conservation (HCC), CubaMar, and Florida State University to form a Caribbean sawfish coalition, supported by the Shark Conservation Fund. SAI, HCC, and CubaMar are projects of The Ocean Foundation.


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A Free Benefit Concert For The USVI Is Coming To St. John This May

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Apr. 17, 2019: The countdown is on to an exciting free benefit concert for the US Virgin Islands this May 18th in St. John.

The “Music Is Life” benefit is being presented by Intellectual Global Concepts, (IGC), in collaboration with The Coral Bay Caribbean Oasis, The RTPark, The University of The Virgin Islands, (UVI) and Grammy-Award winning Jazz Drummer, Dion Parson.

It is set for May 18th-19th from 5 p.m.-12:30 a.m. at The St. John Bayfront at The Coral Bay Caribbean Oasis.

The event will feature world renowned South African electronic music maestro, Hyenah, who is known for his elusive identity, top charting tracks on ‘Resident Advisor,’ and his performances at top clubs across the globe. Additionally, the event will showcase USVI’s own Cool Session Brass Band and UVI’s SHUT Down Band along with DJ Mike Swells of NYC and local fire dancers and drum circle.

Event attendees will also be able to experience the local food culture with several amazing food vendors placed throughout the venue and an online Silent Auction at 32auctions.com/musicislife, that will feature a fantastic selection of prizes with winners of the auction announced live at the event.

Taxis will be available to bring guests to the venue and back for US $6 each way, while boat operators will offer trips from St. Thomas to St. John throughout the entirety of the event along with late night options for transportation after the event ends.

Proceeds from the event, merchandise sales, food, art, merchant vendor fees and sponsor donations will be used to bolster music education via the Music Education Program at the University of The Virgin Islands lead by Mr. Parson. Both the St. Croix and St. Thomas campuses were heavily impacted by the 2017 back-to-back Hurricanes Irma and Maria that damaged the university and the RTPark’s 64 West Center Building, leaving a long-lasting impact on the local economy.

This event has a limited number of attendees so music fans must register for free tickets only on Eventbrite or donate US $10-50 for a variety of donation packages, including items like T-shirts and free drinks at the venue.

For more information see Facebook at facebook.com/musicislifeusvi/ and Eventbrite at usvimusicislife.eventbrite.com

Sponsors interested in collaborating with IGC on this event can contact organizers at [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT:

Felicia Persaud

Hard Beat Communications

(P): 718-476-3616

Email: [email protected]

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A Caribbean War Hero Remembered

HERO features a host of celebrated British actors including Joseph Marcell of Fresh Prince of Bel Air fame, playing the role of writer CLR James; Fraser James, of Terminator Salvation, playing the role of George Padmore and British-Nigerian actor Jimmy Akingbola, of BBC’s Holby, playing Ghana’s first president Kwame Nkrumah.

HERO features a host of celebrated British actors including Joseph Marcell of Fresh Prince of Bel Air fame, playing the role of writer CLR James; Fraser James, of Terminator Salvation, playing the role of George Padmore and British-Nigerian actor Jimmy Akingbola, of BBC’s Holby, playing Ghana’s first president Kwame Nkrumah.

CaribPR Wire, LONDON, UK, Sat. April 6, 2019: The life and times of Trinidadian war hero, judge and diplomat, Ulric Cross, will be portrayed in a new film – HERO to be screened at the British Film Institute, Southbank, London on May 18, 2019.

The feature film, produced by former UK resident, Frances-Anne Solomon, has already received international acclaim at its screenings in Trinidad and Tobago and Canada. (not the US yet).

The story told is of Cross, a trailblazer who made his mark on history as a Navigator of fighter planes in World War II. He became one of the RAF’s most decorated West Indian Airmen. He then went on to play a central role in the independence struggles of both Africa and the Caribbean.

“Ultimately, the story is about us. About who we are as Caribbean people and as citizens of the world,” says filmmaker Frances-Anne Solomon. “In that spirit, we’re thrilled to be bringing HERO to the UK where much of the filming took place. It is particularly poignant that this year is the seventy-fifth anniversary of the first major generation of Caribbean arrivals in Britain — on the Empire Windrush.”

Filmed across the UK, Trinidad, Ghana, and Canada, HERO features a host of celebrated British actors including Joseph Marcell of Fresh Prince of Bel Air fame, playing the role of writer CLR James; Fraser James, of Terminator Salvation, playing the role of George Padmore and British-Nigerian actor Jimmy Akingbola, of BBC’s Holby, playing Ghana’s first president Kwame Nkrumah.

Following its premier at the BFI Southbank, HERO will be taken across the UK in the lead up to the 75th Windrush celebrations in June.

For media enquiries, please contact Evadney Campbell, Shiloh PR, 07716 289 717 or email: [email protected]

HERO Inspired by the Extraordinary
Life & Times of Mr Ulric Cross.

TRAILER

Click to view Trailer

Filmed in Trinidad, Ghana, the UK and Canada, HERO is the story of Ulric Cross, who in 1941, left his small island to seek his fortune, and became the Royal Air Force’s most decorated West Indian. Then his life took a dramatically different course when he followed the call of history. He joined the African independence movements sweeping the world in the 50s and 60s.

About Frances-Anne Solomon

An award-winning filmmaker, producer, curator and entrepreneur in film, TV, Radio and new media. Following a successful career as a TV Drama Producer and Executive Producer with the BBC in England,  Frances-Anne launched the CaribbeanTales Media Group in Canada and Barbados, which includes Production, International Distribution, and Industry Training worldwide.   Frances-Anne has just completed her latest feature film  HERO- Inspired By The Extraordinary Life & Times Of Mr. Ulric Cross, which (while in development) won the Best Feature Pitch at Discop 2016.
About CaribbeanTales Media Group
CaribbeanTales (CTMG) is a group of media companies that produces, markets, and exhibits Caribbean-themed films for Regional and international distribution, including CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution, CaribbeanTales Inc –  a registered Charity in Canada. Activities include The CaribbeanTales International Film Festival now in its 14th year; the renowned CaribbeanTales Incubator (CTI) a year-round development and production hub for Caribbean and Caribbean Diaspora Producers; Caribbeantales-TV a VOD  streaming service for Caribbean films; and CaribbeanTalesFlix, their production arm.
https://twitter.com/hero_film?lang=en

About the BFI
The BFI is the UK’s lead organisation for film, television and the moving image. It is a cultural charity that:

  • Curates and presents the greatest international public programme of World Cinema for audiences; in cinemas, at festivals and online
  • Cares for the BFI National Archive – the most significant film and television archive in the world
  • Actively seeks out and supports the next generation of filmmakers
  • Works with Government and industry to make the UK the most creatively exciting and prosperous place to make film internationally

Founded in 1933, the BFI is a registered charity governed by Royal Charter. The BFI Board of Governors is chaired by Josh Berger CBE.

BFI Southbank
The BFI Southbank is open to all. BFI members are entitled to a discount on all tickets. BFI Southbank Box Office tel: 020 7928 3232. Unless otherwise stated tickets are £13.75, concs£11.25 including Gift Aid donation. Members pay £2.20 less on any ticket - www.bfi.org.uk/southbank.
Young people aged 25 and under can buy last minute tickets for just £3, 45 minutes before the start of screenings and events, subject to availability - http://www.bfi.org.uk/25-and-under.
Tickets for FREE screenings and events must be booked in advance by calling the Box Office to avoid disappointment

CaribbeanTales is a registered Canadian Charity no. 87896 4618 RR0001 committed to connecting people through film. This commitment to fostering intercultural understanding includes building community here in Canada, as well as a global community between Canadians and like-minded artists, cultural entrepreneurs, and community builders throughout the Diaspora.
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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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Cayman Islands Investment Group Ltd. Announces New Cryptocurrency Exchange in Development

GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, March 20, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Earlier this year, the Cayman Islands Investment Group’s technology wing: C.I.I.G. Technologies, teased the release of a brand new Cryptocurrency exchange based in the Cayman Islands. Since then, CIIG Technologies has now announced that Cryptocay.ky is preparing for its official launch.

CryptoCay logo

After over a year of research, development and tweaking Cryptocay.ky is nearing its completion and will soon be ready for use by cryptocurrency traders from across the globe. Cryptocay.ky is aimed at both amateur and professional traders, with Head of Marketing and Promotions, Malcolm Hurlston stating, “We want to be more than just another exchange, we want to help educate those that haven’t taken the dive into the Cryptocurrency world. We want to become the Cryptocurrency Hub of the Caribbean.”

Marketplace

Cryptocay.ky will boast markets for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, OmiseGo and many more. By staying up to date with the latest updates in the markets, Cryptocay will aim to give its users the most competitive rates for Limit Orders and flexibility for Market Orders. There will be over 25 markets to trade from at launch, with more to come as the exchange expands.

Security Where it Matters

Cryptocay.ky will have a fully dedicated privacy and security system that will protect both the user and their assets. User safety is priority for Cryptocay.ky, with the same integrity and accuracy that is applied to the Cayman banking industry being applied to the platform. Trustworthiness, clarity and security are core values that every Cayman Islands Investment Group company will be based on.

Follow all social media channels to see the planned release date and get ready to Trade in Paradise.

Founded in 2018, Cayman Islands Investment Group Ltd. is an Internet Commerce Company. Cryptocay.ky will offer a wide range of products and services designed to broaden the possibilities of commerce in the Caribbean.

Cayman Islands Investment Group Ltd. is a Registered Company of the Cayman Islands.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

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WRB Energy: What Will It Take to Develop More Renewable Energy in the Caribbean?

TAMPA, Florida, March 12, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – With the abundance of clean energy resources in the Caribbean—sun, wind, water, and geothermal—it’s a natural environment for more renewable energy generation.  So why isn’t there more renewable energy produced in the Caribbean, and why aren’t there more projects in the pipeline?

With more than three decades of experience developing renewable energy projects and operating utilities, WRB Energy can address some of the challenges that hinder increased renewable energy generation in the Caribbean.

Contain costs

Most small Caribbean island nations lack economies of scale to absorb the high costs and complexities of developing relatively small renewable installations as compared to those in larger, more developed countries.  With relatively smaller populations, economies, and electricity demand, there are fewer kilowatt-hours produced to amortize the up-front investment expenses cost-effectively. However, as the prices for renewable energy equipment continue to decrease and technologies advance, solar, wind, and geothermal are increasingly more viable, least-cost options for diversified energy portfolios.

Flatten the learning curve

Government leaders with a stable long-term vision and implementation plans for increased renewable energy attract the best opportunities for project development. By working collaboratively, utilities, government, regulators and developers can help level the learning curve for initial projects.

Understand that land is precious

Securing appropriate land for project siting poses significant challenges. There is tremendous pride in land ownership, with parcels of land being passed on from generation to generation. Also, there is a history of informal land dealings, which leads to clouded property titles. Consequently, these issues can create local owner resistance to land transactions and long-term leases.

Clarify investment requirements

Banks, investors, and multilateral organizations have mandates, terms, securities and covenants that can be misunderstood in negotiations with governments, utilities and regulators. Policies and processes need to be clearly defined to avoid misinterpretation of project terms.

Harness a sustainable future

Developing renewable systems reliably and affordably requires due diligence to avoid electricity rate increases. It’s a long-term strategy requiring cooperation between stable government policies, flexible utilities, competent regulatory bodies, responsible investors, and credible development partners to design, develop and deliver renewable energy projects as promised.  Read more at https://wrbenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/FINAL-ENERGY-0032-2019-feature-article-3-4-19.pdf. Download photos at https://www.dropbox.com/sh/8u4fxjjpjghexce/AACs-LpeFMSgBQ58o7_NrmzQa?dl=0

WRB Energy develops renewable energy projects to help stabilize electricity prices, reduce dependence on imported fuels, and drive economic growth in Latin America and the Caribbean. Visit www.wrbenergy.com and https://wrbenergy.com/content-solar-jamaicas-first-utility-scale-solar-plant/.

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