New Provisional Government Sworn In Amidst Turmoil in Haiti

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News Americas, PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Amidst the backdrop of a nation grappling with turmoil and unrest, a new provisional government was quietly ushered into power today in the French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member state of Haiti. This significant development comes nearly two months after a criminal insurrection threw the capital into chaos, exacerbating an already volatile situation.

New Haitian Prime Minister Michel Patrick Boivert speaks during the swearing in of a new transitional council in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on April 25, 2024. A long-awaited transitional ruling council was sworn in in crisis-torn Haiti Thursday, an official told AFP, the first step to forming a new government after months of gang violence in the Caribbean nation. (Photo by CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP via Getty Images)

The formation of a nine-person “transitional council” marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s trajectory, with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, currently in the United States due to the volatile conditions in Haiti, formally announcing his resignation in a letter. Henry, a former neurosurgeon turned politician, assumed power following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, navigating the country through turbulent times.

Smith Augustin (C), member of the new transitional council, speaks to the press after the swearing in of the council in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on April 25, 2024. A long-awaited transitional ruling council was sworn in in crisis-torn Haiti Thursday, an official told AFP, the first step to forming a new government after months of gang violence in the Caribbean nation. (Photo by CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP via Getty Images)

This morning’s early morning swearing-in ceremony was shrouded in secrecy, a precautionary measure taken in light of looming threats of violence. Reports hinted at the possibility of the event being held at an undisclosed government property, underscoring the delicate security situation gripping the nation.

Despite the challenges and risks posed by the prevailing unrest, the United States and a 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM)-backed council pressed forward with the inauguration, a testament to their commitment to restoring stability and order. Michael Patrick Boisvert, Henry’s former finance minister, assumed the role of interim Prime Minister, tasked with steering the nation through this tumultuous period.

The composition of the Presidential Transitional Council, including prominent figures such as Smith Agustin, Louis Gérald Gilles, Fritz Alphonse Jean, Edgard Leblanc Fils, Laurent Saint-Cyr, Emmanuel Vertilair, Leslie Voltaire, Régine Abraham, and Frinel Joseph, underscores a diverse array of voices tasked with guiding the nation forward. These individuals solemnly took the oath of office at the National Palace before proceeding to the Villa d’Accueil for the formal ceremony and subsequent address.

As the nation navigates its transition period, the selection of a President-coordinator for the Transition Council looms large. Names such as Louis Gérald Gilles, Lesly Voltaire, Edgard Leblanc Fils, and Fritz Alphonse Jean have emerged as potential candidates, though no official announcement has been made thus far.

Against the backdrop of heightened tensions and isolation, the capital city of Port-au-Prince finds itself cut off from the rest of the world, with its international airport and port shuttered due to ongoing gunfights. Meanwhile, roads connecting the city to neighboring regions have fallen under the control of armed groups notorious for their involvement in kidnapping and extortion.

In response to the escalating crisis, foreign governments have initiated evacuation efforts, ferrying hundreds of citizens to safety in the United States and the neighboring Dominican Republic. As Haiti grapples with the complexities of its transition, the international community watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis gripping this Caribbean nation.

Broadway World Award Winner, Jamaican David Heron, To Premiere Alwin Bully’s ‘McBee’ In NYC

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Celebrated Caribbean immigrant actor and producer, David Heron, winner of the Broadway World Award, is set to produce and direct the American Premiere of Dominican playwright Alwin Bully’s Caribbean drama “McBee,” in Jamaica, Queens, this June, Caribbean American Heritage Month in the US.

Jamaican-born actor David Heron and Patrice Foster as Lord and Lady Montague in  Romeo and Juliet. (Photo courtesy of Shakespeare Festival of St Louis.)

The play, inspired by Shakespeare’s Macbeth, will be staged as a one-night-only event at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) on Sunday, June 23 from 7 p.m., with a Caribbean cuisine reception starting at 5:30 p.m.

David Heron, c., flanked by Dominican playwright, the late Alwin Bully, l., and his wife, Anita Bully, r..

(Photo courtesy of David Heron.)

Heron, a Jamaican-born talent, recently received acclaim for his role in The Colonial Theatre of Rhode Island’s production of “The Tempest.” His decision to present “McBee” during New York City’s Caribbean American Heritage Month celebrations is a tribute to Bully, a renowned Dominican playwright and mentor to Heron, who passed away.

“McBee” tells the gripping tale of politician Allan McBee and his wife Alice as they navigate ambition and destiny in the backdrop of a Caribbean island. Written by Bully in the 1990s, the play makes its American debut following Bully’s passing in 2023. Heron, deeply influenced by Bully’s legacy, aims to honor the playwright’s vision by bringing “McBee” to American audiences.

“Sadly, Alwin transitioned before we could get any incarnation of the play on to an American stage,” Heron says, “So this American premiere production is really a celebration of him and his lifetime of amazing achievements, of which McBee is only one.”

“Along with another great Caribbean artist, the late Trevor Nairne, Alwin Bully has been the single greatest supporter, influencer and mentor in my entire career,” he added.  “I would not be the artist I am today without him. And several of the actors in our production feel the same way. So we are using Caribbean American Heritage Month and this event to share Alwin’s legacy with the world and to provide an evening of theatre that will be truly memorable for our audience, right in the heart of Jamaica Queens.”

Born in Roseau, Dominica, Alwin Bully was a cultural administrator, playwright, actor and artist who designed the national flag of Dominica. His association with Heron and many other major Jamaican artists flourished during his two decades in Jamaica as UNESCO’s Caribbean Cultural Advisor. In addition to McBee, his other plays include The Ruler, Good Morning, Miss Millie and The Nitebox. He received Dominica’s second highest national honor, The Sisserou Award of Honor, in 1985. Upon his passing in 2023, he was hailed throughout the Caribbean as a cultural icon and was accorded a full state funeral by the Dominican government.

In addition to his award winning role in The Tempest, Heron’s Shakespearean resume also includes Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Othello and Hamlet among others.

With an illustrious cast from stage, film, and Broadway, the production promises to be a memorable cultural experience. Casting announcements will be made soon, and tickets for the premiere will be available for purchase in early May. Don’t miss this exclusive theatrical event celebrating Caribbean heritage in the heart of Jamaica, Queens at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, New York, 11432.

Call Him ICC Cricket Ambassador Bolt

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt has been named as an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the West Indies and the USA from June 1-29, 2024. Bolt’s appointment adds to the anticipation surrounding the tournament, which promises to be the biggest cricket carnival ever seen, inspiring a new generation of fans.

Call him ICC Cricket Ambassador Bolt!

Bolt’s global appeal, coupled with his extraordinary athletic achievements and ability to transcend boundaries, makes him a natural fit for the prestigious role of ambassador. Renowned for his record-breaking performances at the Olympic Games, Bolt’s journey to worldwide stardom began with his historic ‘Triple-Triple’ feat at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

As an ambassador, Bolt will play a pivotal role in promoting the event, starting with an appearance in the official anthem music video alongside acclaimed artists Sean Paul and Kes. He will also attend T20 World Cup matches in the West Indies and participate in fan engagement events aimed at promoting cricket in the United States.

RELATED: Sean Paul and Kes to Craft Official Anthem for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Bolt emphasized the special place cricket holds in Caribbean culture and his excitement for the growth of the sport globally. He highlighted the significance of cricket’s expansion into the American market, noting the immense potential it holds, particularly in light of the sport’s inclusion in the LA Olympics in 2028. “I am thrilled to be an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Coming from the Caribbean where cricket is a part of life, the sport has always held a special place in my heart, and I look forward to attending West Indies matches at the World Cup and making a contribution to the growth of cricket globally,” he said.

ICC Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Allardice, hailed Bolt as a global icon and expressed delight in having him on board as an ambassador. Allardice noted Bolt’s passion for cricket and his energetic personality as valuable assets that will enhance the T20 World Cup experience for fans.

“Usain Bolt is a global icon, we are thrilled to have him on board as an Ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 to engage with a new generation of fans. His passion for cricket is well known, making him the perfect fit for this role. Alongside his world record breaking achievements and energetic personality, he will add another exciting element to the World Cup,” said Allardice.

With Bolt’s presence adding an extra dimension of excitement, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 promises to be action-packed. Fans can anticipate witnessing the world’s best teams compete for glory, with the tournament’s opening match featuring co-hosts USA taking on Canada at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas, Texas on June 1. For match fixtures, tickets, and hospitality packages, visit tickets.t20worldcup.com.

Jamaican Chef’s Eatery Named Among Top Fried Chicken Spots in America

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Jamaican-born Chef Nicola Blaque’s culinary prowess has once again captured national attention as her acclaimed San Antonio restaurant, The Jerk Shack, secured a spot in Eat This, Not That’s esteemed list of the best fried chicken restaurants in America, ranking fourth.

Jamaican Chef Nicola of texas (Photo by Rick Kern/Getty Images)

This latest accolade follows the eatery’s recent feature on a popular episode of the Food Network series, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

Taking to Instagram to share the exciting news, The Jerk Shack humbly expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing their initial aim to simply share Caribbean heritage through culinary artistry and foster community connections. “Who would’ve thought our little Caribbean restaurant would be recognized on two national platforms for best fried chicken in America?” remarked Chef Blaque.

Highlighting Chef Nicola’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility, the restaurant’s owners shared insights into her culinary philosophy, emphasizing her mission to make Caribbean cuisine accessible to people from diverse backgrounds. The addition of fried chicken to the menu in 2022 further expanded their reach, reflecting Chef Nicola’s commitment to serving the local community.

Chef Nicola Blaque’s culinary achievements extend beyond The Jerk Shack, earning her recognition as a best restaurateur on the StarChefs rising star list for Austin-San Antonio. Moreover, her culinary empire expanded with the launch of Freight Fried Chicken in 2023, a venture rooted in homage to the resilience of southern Black women in post-Civil War America, who sold fried chicken to railroad passengers to sustain themselves.

With a steadfast commitment to preserving culture and history, Chef Nicola continues to inspire through her culinary creations, inviting patrons to savor not just delicious meals, but also the rich narratives embedded within them. Born and raised in Jamaica until she was five years old, Chef Blaque is passionate about introducing people to the flavors of the Caribbean.

For those eager to indulge in The Jerk Shack’s acclaimed fare, visit their locations at 10234 TX-151, Suite 103, San Antonio, TX 78251, and 312 Pearl Pkwy., Building 6, San Antonio, TX 78215.