Anthony B Says Jamaica’s Leaders Have Failed To Leverage Reggae For Tourism, Unlike St. Kitts

The content originally appeared on: Dance Hall Mag

Fire Pon Rome singer Anthony B has lamented what he says is the failure of the leaders of Jamaica to utilize Reggae music as a catalyst for tourism growth.

According to the Trelawny native, this is in stark contrast to its Caribbean neighbor St. Kitts & Nevis, whose Tourism Ministry co-pioneered and finances the St. Kitts Music Festival, which uses Reggae and Dancehall music and artists as major pull factors.   

“Reggae music is the biggest vehicle to push Jamaica’s tourism, but the authorities refuse to acknowledge that,” Anthony B pointed out in a recent Gleaner interview, as he began comparing and contrasting the two Caribbean countries.

“I went to St. Kitts for their music festival … remember yuh nuh that St Kitts don’t even have music for themselves, but they use our music and create one of the biggest and most recognised music festival in the world,” the artist added in expressing disappointment.

This year’s lineup on the penultimate and the ultimate nights of the recently-held St. Kitts Music Festival, was dominated by Jamaican artists, which included Anthony B himself on Friday night (June 23), alongside Govana, Skillibeng, Chronixx, Koffee, and St. Kitts own Jamaican-born artist Byron Messia, followed by Romain Virgo, Valiant, Teejay and Gramps Morgan on the third and final night (June 24).

According to the St Kitts Music Festival organizers, the first staging of the event back in 1996 was funded by a government overdraft facility of EC$ 450,000 (US$166,500).   It was conceptualised due mainly to economic factors, including very low occupancy levels in local hotels and a reduction in overall business activity on the island.  

Even though that year, the festival suffered a loss of approximately EC$ 35,000 (US$12,950), the Government of St. Kitts, across administrations, continued to give its unwavering support, according to the event organisers.

The country’s Ministers of Tourism over the decades have also been praised by Faron Lawrence, who served as festival chairman for more than ten years. 

Lawrence is quoted as saying that “one essential ingredient that has kept the festival alive for the past two decades, is the commitment provided by all serving ministers with responsibility for the festival: Dwyer Astaphan, Jacinth Henry-Martin as well as Richard Skerritt and now Lindsay Grant”, both of whom served as volunteers in the early years of the event.  

In detail, the festival was “designed to increase visitor arrivals; improve hotel occupancies; stimulate greater economic activity across all commercial sectors; create greater international awareness for the destination as a viable option for visitors; while also producing a world class entertainment event attractive and appealing to Kittitians/Nevisians and tourists”.

During a press conference held prior to this year’s staging of the event, St Kitts & Nevis’ Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson had described the music festival as far more than a stage show.

“I like to say to our stakeholders, we would have it being run by the Ministry of Entertainment, but it’s under the Ministry of Tourism for a reason. And that is because the product is supposed to bring visitors to our destination. And that is happening because the flights are filled,” she said.

“So this is doing what it is supposed to do and hopefully, it generates economic activity for our people. So it’s not just a music festival, but it’s with our ministry for that reason…,” she added.

Reports from St Kitts & Nevis are that the results of several Economic Impact Assessment Surveys carried out for the St Kitts Music Festival, “supports the already established view that the festival provides tremendous returns to the economy in the month of June, which traditionally was known as the difficult period for the hospitality sector”.

Back in Jamaica in February, Executive Director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) Carey Wallace, while speaking at the Negril Entertainment Conference, said he believes Jamaican music and culture has the wherewithal to join and even surpass tourism as the island’s biggest income earner.

“As you know – and not one person is going to second-guess me, our culture is our strongest brand.  There is something about us as a brand, a people, a culture.   Yet, from an economic standpoint, culture is not our number one income generator.  Tourism is the number one industry ,” Dr. Wallace had said.

“Yes, there are synergies with our culture and tourism, but think about it, our entertainment industry, being such a huge brand globally, there is a gap.  It should be Jamaica’s number one industry,” he added.

In June 2018, Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, had said his Ministry was “placing a special focus on developing entertainment tourism as part of our growth strategy” and was positioning, the tourism sector to work strategically with the music industry to create valuable products and experiences for visitors.

“Our music continues to set Jamaica apart from rival destinations.   Each year more and more reggae music fans converge on the island to enjoy great music and the offerings of a remarkable destination. The resounding success of music festivals like Reggae Sumfest and Sting have helped to enhance our international profile significantly,” Bartlett had said.

Bartlett had also said that while his Ministry was committed to fostering the continued development of the entertainment industry and its full integration into the tourism product, he was fully cognizant that there is still more to be done to maximize the potential of what he described as “this important” sub-sector.

“We have to give visitors more things to do when they come to our island. We have to tap into their passion points, and music is a great way to start. Simply put, we are,” he noted.

“It goes without saying that entertainment is an area in which we are world beaters.   Therefore we are taking the necessary steps to capitalize on the tremendous potential Jamaica has in this area to significantly boost our arrivals and tourism earnings,” he had added.

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Cricket Superstars West Indies And India To Clash On American Soil

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. July 10, 2023: In a thrilling series on American soil, India and the West Indies will clash in a clash of cricketing superstars.

With an impressive winning streak behind them, India enters this tour with confidence and determination.

Without a doubt, this is one of the most interesting cricket events that many fans can’t wait to witness. However, there are still fans wondering if India can extend their winning streak and further solidify their dominance.

Or will the West Indies rise to the occasion and make a resounding statement?

Let’s delve into the upcoming contest, exploring key aspects that could shape the outcome of this high-stakes battle.

The Unstoppable Force: India’s Dominance In Recent Times

In recent years, the Indian cricket team has been a dominant force across formats, showcasing their depth of talent and remarkable consistency.

With stellar performances in both the home and away series, India has firmly established itself as one of the world’s top cricketing nations.

Led by the dynamic Rohit Sharma, India boasts a formidable lineup featuring experienced stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Ravindra Jadeja. Their skills are also complemented by emerging talents such as Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The team’s success has also been built on a strong foundation, with a potent bowling attack led by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, backed by the spin wizardry of Ravichandran Ashwin and the ever-reliable Axar Patel.

So, yes, India’s recent triumph in the World Test Championship and their consistent performances in limited-overs cricket have only heightened expectations for this tour.

India coach Rahul Dravid at The Oval on June 11, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

Key Players To Watch: Clash Of Titans

As cricket superstars collide on American soil, several enticing battles will shape the series’ outcome. Let’s have a look at some of the key players to watch out for on this upcoming tour:

Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma, fondly known as the “Hitman,” is a prolific run-scorer and an integral part of the Indian cricket team. His impact as an explosive opener and his ability to dominate bowling attacks have made him one of the most feared batsmen in the game.

Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, the epitome of consistency and sheer class, is widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the world. His incredible run-scoring ability and unwavering hunger for success have earned him a reputation as a true cricketing legend.

As India embarks on the tour of the West Indies, Kohli’s role as a batsman and leader will be crucial. His ability to anchor the innings, build partnerships, and play match-winning knocks will be vital to India’s success.

Moreover, his tactical acumen and ability to make strategic decisions during the game will be instrumental in guiding the team toward victory.

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin, the wily off-spinner, has established himself as one of India’s premier match-winners in Test cricket.

With his exceptional control, variations, and cricketing intelligence, Ashwin poses a constant threat to opposition batsmen and has the knack of providing crucial breakthroughs for his team.

Ashwin’s role as the lead spinner will be pivotal. His ability to trouble batsmen, create pressure, and provide crucial breakthroughs will be instrumental in India’s success.

The West Indian batsmen will face a stern challenge in deciphering Ashwin’s variations and dealing with his relentless accuracy.

Shubman Gill

Gill is a young batting sensation who’s been making waves in the world of cricket with his elegant strokeplay and solid technique.

He possesses a sound defensive game, allowing him to weather the storm during testing periods and build substantial innings. His ability to adapt to different conditions and situations is remarkable for a player of his age, instilling confidence in his teammates and the coaching staff.

With all these players in mind, it won’t be surprising if the West Indies tour of India odds will be favorable for the Indian team.

Wrapping Up

As cricket superstars collide on American soil, the series between India and the West Indies holds the promise of an electrifying spectacle.

With India’s unyielding winning streak and a squad brimming with talent, the West Indies will strive to showcase their resurgence and challenge their opponents at every turn.

The clash of titans, intense battles, and the electric atmosphere will undoubtedly provide cricket enthusiasts with unforgettable moments and enthralling encounters. The first Tectch match will start on July 12, 2023, at large Windsor Park, Dominica.

The last match will be the fifth T20I event on August 5, 2023. This will be held at Central Broward Park in Lauderhill, Florida.

Altree Developments’ Vie L’Ven Resort joins the Leading Hotels of the World collection

News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Mon. July 10, 2023: Altree Developments proudly announces that Vie L’Ven Luxury Hotel and Residences has officially joined the distinguished group of Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), alongside renowned establishments such as Portugal’s Savoy Palace, Paris’ Fauchon L’Palace, and Sweden’s Grand Hotel Stockholm.

Comprised of more than 400 hotels in over 80 countries, LHW curates the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts for travelers looking for their next discovery. Vie L’Ven’s luxurious and exquisite five-star hotel makes the list by offering an ultimate lavish experience with unparalleled amenities such as world-class restaurants, beach bar, private villas, and spa and fitness facilities.

“We are excited to be included among the esteemed Leading Hotels in the World, alongside the most exquisite and opulent properties globally,” says Zev Mandelbaum, Altree Developments’ Founder and CEO. “Vie L’Ven represents more than just a premier condominium hotel resort in the Caribbean; it will elevate the Sint Maarten tourism scene and offers travelers a distinctive experience in the coveted Cay Bay.”

Drawing from the cultural heritage of the island, this hotel seamlessly blends the French and Dutch influences. Vie L’Ven offers guests and residents 253 fully furnished suites, available in a range of layouts, including one, two, and three-bedroom homes ranging from 600 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft.

Representing the pinnacle of an oceanfront luxury experience, Vie L’Ven thoughtfully designed in collaboration with internationally celebrated award-winning designer Studio Munge, includes a renowned five-star hotel featuring four high-end restaurants catering to the desires of all guests and residents. The exquisite resort, which will boast one of the Caribbean’s largest spas, is complete with a thermal aquatic experience, fitness center, and round-the-clock concierge services, ensuring the utmost luxury experience in Sint Maarten’s Cay Bay.

About Altree Developments:

Altree Developments stems from a long lineage of multi-generational experience in the development field. Led by Zev Mandelbaum, Altree is a leading development company focused on acquiring and developing strategic residential and hospitality properties in North America and the Caribbean. With a diverse portfolio of mixed-use projects ranging from ultra-luxury condominiums to master-planned communities. Our vision is to deliver prime residential locations with long-term value and growth potential. For more information, visit www.altreedevelopments.com