Dream WKND NYC 2024 Recap and Interview with Chairman of Dream Entertainment: A Celebration of Caribbean Culture & Community In The Big Apple Hosted By Spice

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New York, NY – July 11th, 2024 – Dream WKND NYC 2024-the annual Caribbean’s Largest music festival wrapped up its second staging in the vibrant city of New York, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s Caribbean cultural and musical landscape. Held on June 29-30, this year’s festival was a resounding success, drawing thousands of ‘Dreamers’ from across the tri-state area delivering two unforgettable nights of music, dance, and cultural celebration.

Night One: ‘World Dance Best Of The 90s’ at Club Musica Manhattan

The festival at Club Musica on Saturday, June 29, kicked off with an explosive start despite the inclement weather. Hosted by Jamaican dancehall queen Spice, the ‘World Dance Best of the 90s’ evening was filled with entertainment, including Spice handing out cowboy hats to fans participating in the “Round n Round” challenge, and meet & greets. DJs Kevin Crown, Massive B, and Platinum Kids kept the energy high with a mix of dancehall, soca, hip-hop, alternative, and afrobeats hits.

Night Two: Daydreams All-White Event

The celebration continued on Sunday, June 30 at DAYDREAMS all white summer soiree held at the beautiful outdoor venue, Industry city- Brooklyn, making it the climax of the weekend. Dreamers were dressed to impress, all while enjoying an elegant yet energetic, party atmosphere. The venue was transformed into a sea of white, with dazzling décor, good Jamaican bites, seamless bottle service and a stellar lineup of DJs such as: DJ Fade The Future from Hot97, who recently came from Vogue world paris, Popular Caribbean DJ- Noah Powa and Massive B, who kept the dance floor bumping. The mix of Caribbean beat and the Brooklyn backdrop created a unique and memorable experience for all patrons.

Cultural Exchange

Beyond the music and festivities, Dream WKND NYC 2024 had a significant turn out from the city providing a platform for cultural exchange, bringing Caribbean heritage and community to the forefront highlighting the vibrancy and cultural diversity of New York City, reinforcing its reputation as a global cultural hub.

Dare to continue the Dream? Head down to where it all began; Dream WKND’s 15th year anniversary celebration weekend in Negril, Jamaica from August 2nd-6th 2024.

About Dream Weekend: Dream Weekend is Jamaica’s premier music festival, known for its high-energy events and unforgettable experiences. Founded in Negril, Jamaica, Dream Weekend has grown into an international phenomenon and touring festival, attracting music lovers from around the world.

** Tempo got the chance to check in with the Dream Team, and Chairman of Dream Entertainment, Kamal Bankay.
Check out the interview below!

– What was the initial “Dream” behind Dream WKND? The inspiration for its start.
The birth of Dream Wknd dates back to 2009, when Matthew Samuda and PJ Wright, now both board directors of Dream Entertainment Ltd., produced competing events – Xtreme Wet and Wild on ATI and DayDreams on RTI – happening simultaneously. Through their discussions, they realized that their philosophy and future outlook for the entertainment industry were remarkably similar. Recognizing the potential synergy, Samuda and Wright sought to bring these events together, which now serve as the twin anchors for Dream Wknd Negril – with a shared
vision to “redefine Jamaica’s entertainment industry, honing its global appeal as the premiere entertainment destination of the Caribbean”.

“Our very first meeting consisted of myself, PJ, and Solomon Sharpe. There were others who were invited and chose not to join”. Notwithstanding, the group quickly expanded with all of the current directors being invited to join forces. “The synergies and creative energies were great from the beginning, so it made for a seamless integration”, stated Matthew Samuda, Dream Wknd’s Conceptualizer.

As Dream celebrates its 15th Anniversary weekend in August 2024, it has undoubtedly become the premier entertainment tourism festival on the island and in the Caribbean at large. Its Directors have managed to revolutionize partying in Jamaica attracting 35,000+ global dreamers
annually, with a plethora of innovative event brands that all contribute to the fulfillment of their initial goal.

– What is the best way to experience Dream WKND in Jamaica? Any special vendors or performances we must check out?
The best way to experience Dream WKND is to be there! From August 2-6th 2024 with 8 events over 5 days, the weekend promises to be a treat for all. At each staging of the Negril weekend, the events are all themed and tend to vary slightly as the Dream team strives to keep the
weekend fresh and exciting. This year Dreamers can look forward to some of their favorites; Wet and Wild (swimwear), Daydreams (all white), Yush (90s -2000s), World Vibes (all black), Celebrity Playground (red and white), and Igloo (sports wear), but for the first time get to
experience Carnival at Dream with Xodus Remedy (carnival wear).

The premium food & drink weekend will feature special performances at every event, from the prince of Dancehall- 450 and International sensation- Jada Kingdom, to Tommy Lee, Teejay and Aidonia.

– How has the brand garnered global recognition? Has it managed to extend Jamaican culture to enthusiasts across the globe?
Dream Wknd has grown exponentially, becoming a household name in Jamaica over its 15 years of existence. It has boosted Jamaica’s tourism by attracting patrons from across the globe to Negril, resulting in a JMD4.5 Billion economic impact annually. Dream Wknd has created a demand so compelling that many patrons’ first visit to Jamaica is specifically for this festival.

If you’re unable to attend the main event in Negril, be on the lookout for Dream WKND pop-up events and destination weekends hosted at locations around the world. This touring initiative allows “Dreamers” who haven’t yet had the opportunity to visit Negril to experience a taste of Jamaica’s vibrant culture and energy. By bringing the Dream WKND experience to different global destinations, the Dream team has successfully fostered a sense of community, enabling Dreamers to come together and celebrate their shared Caribbean heritage at these events.

– This is Dream Wknd’s second staging in NYC. Why NYC? Was there a strategy to bring the event to New York?
The vibrant Caribbean diaspora community in the tri-state area has long been a steadfast supporter of Dream Wknd’s flagship event in Jamaica. Recalling the fond memories and cultural connections shared by this close-knit group, it seemed only natural for Dream to establish a presence here in the big apple. The organizers recognized the deep-rooted ties and nostalgic sentiments this population holds towards their Caribbean heritage, making New York City an ideal location to bring the Dream WKND experience closer to home. By catering to the needs and interests of this thriving diaspora market, Dream can continue to strengthen its brand and foster a sense of community among those who cherish their roots in the region.

– What does the future hold for Dream Weekend?
Building upon the success of its pop-up events in London and New York earlier in 2024, Dream WKND is poised to expand its global footprint further. As the year draws to a close, the brand will return to the United Kingdom with back-to-back pop-up activations in Manchester and
London, setting the stage for its flagship Negril Weekend. Additionally, Dream Wknd will venture north to Toronto, Canada in September, catering to its loyal following in the region. Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the Dream team has identified new markets ripe for
exploration. Southern Europe and the UAE have been earmarked as strategic targets, as Dream WKND aims to bring its unique brand of entertainment and cultural celebration to an even wider international audience. This deliberate expansion reflects the brand’s ambition to solidify its position as a premier entertainment destination, resonating with dreamers across the globe.

Tickets are now on sale at www.dreamwknd.com, for the August 2-6, 2024 staging. VIP season band passes at $399 are 89% sold out, so Dreamers are encouraged to take advantage of the available discounts.

Countdown On To Buju Banton’s First US Performance

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. July 11th, 2024: The excitement is palpable as the countdown begins to the first US performance of Grammy winning Jamaican-born, reggae singer Buju Banton in the USA this weekend.

‘The Gargamel’ Buju Banton is set to perform in the U.S. for the first time in over a decade this July 13th and 14th at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. (X/Gargamel Music image)

The last time Banton performed in the US was January 2011 in Miami. The singer, who was released from a US prison in 2018, will thrill fans with his first “Long Walk To Freedom” US concert on Saturday, July 13th and 14th at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.

‘The Gargamel’ is set to take the stage with his Shiloh Band, just two days before his 51st birthday on July 15th.

“I give thanks for life each day, but on this weekend, there is a special thanksgiving and I look forward to celebrating with all of my family, friends, and everyone who has prayed and supported me over the years,” said the Grammy Award winner in a statement.

Due to “popular demand,” a second date was added to the “Long Walk To Freedom New York” concert at the UBS Arena in Queens, New York.

“With the first show selling out in record time, the addition of the second show ensures that more fans and music lovers will have the opportunity to witness the legendary artist’s comeback,” a release to DancehallMag stated. “Long Walk To Freedom – N.Y. exemplifies Banton’s resilience and serves as a beacon of hope for fans around the world.”

Joseph Budafuco, Buju Banton’s manager, reflected on the journey since his last U.S. show in Miami in January 2011. “It’s a true honour to witness the return of a legend, as history unfolds before our eyes once again,” Budafuco expressed.

He added, “We look forward to presenting an exceptional concert in partnership with AG Consulting and Dahved Levy, whose experience in the market is profound.”

US Warns About Travel To This Caribbean Island

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News Americas, New York, NY, July 11, 2024: The United States has issued a Level Three travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago, urging nationals to reconsider travel to the twin-island nation due to escalating crime rates.

The US is warning nationals to reconsider travel to T&T.

The advisory, released by the U.S. Department of State, highlights the need for increased caution due to terrorism and kidnapping risks. Specific areas identified as high-risk include Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah in Port of Spain. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to these areas. Additionally, travel to downtown Port of Spain, Fort George overlook, and all beaches is restricted for U.S. personnel after dark.

The advisory warns of frequent violence and shootings in certain parts of Port of Spain, describing violent crimes such as murder, robbery, assault, sexual assault, home invasion, and kidnapping as common occurrences. It also notes significant gang-related activity, particularly narcotics trafficking, contributing to the high levels of violence.

“A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related,” states the advisory. “Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”

For those who choose to travel to Trinidad and Tobago despite the advisory, the U.S. Department of State provides several recommendations:

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Follow the Department of State on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Review the Country Security Report for Trinidad and Tobago.

Use caution when walking or driving at night.

Be wary of meeting individuals met through social media or dating apps.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Do not display overt signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.

Be extra vigilant when visiting ATMs.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

Follow the instructions of local authorities.

The advisory emphasizes the importance of being cautious and aware of one’s surroundings, especially in high-risk areas. Travelers are advised to avoid displaying wealth and to take extra precautions when using ATMs or meeting new acquaintances through social media or dating apps.

This heightened alert comes in response to a notable increase in violent crimes and potential terrorist activities in Trinidad and Tobago. The U.S. Department of State aims to ensure the safety of its nationals by providing these guidelines and urging them to reconsider non-essential travel to the region.

Former Slave Honored Posthumously as National Hero

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News Americas, New York, NY, July 11, 2024: A former slave in The Bahamas has been honored posthumously with the nation’s highest award as the country celebrated its 51st anniversary of independence from Britain.

On July 10th, The Bahamas conferred the Order of National Hero on Kate Moss, a former slave recognized for her courage in the fight against racism and slavery. The Office of the Governor General announced that the National Honours Committee acknowledged Moss for her “timely and determined courage demonstrated against racism and slavery.”

Slave ruins in Eleuthera, Bahamas. (Islands of the Bahamas image)

In the 1820s, Kate Moss was a young house slave on a plantation in Crooked Island owned by Henry and Helen Moss. Accused of theft, insubordination, and insolence, Kate consistently refused to follow the orders of her owners, particularly those she found demeaning. Her defiance led to severe punishment, ultimately resulting in her death.

Statue of Christopher Columbus still stands in New Providence Island, Nassau infront of Government House.

The Governor General’s statement detailed how Kate’s plight caught the attention of abolitionists in England, who referred to her as “Poor Black Kate.” When authorities in Nassau learned of her death, Henry and Helen Moss were charged with murder, found guilty, and fined £300 or sentenced to five months in jail. Kate’s resistance and subsequent death became significant news, bolstering the abolitionist movement in England, led by William Wilberforce.

“Kate’s actions to stand up for herself became an act of defiance that significantly impacted the abolition of slavery worldwide and must never be forgotten,” the statement emphasized.

In related celebrations, CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett praised The Bahamas for its socio-economic progress since independence and its leadership in addressing regional issues such as climate change and human rights. She highlighted The Bahamas’ role as the host of the Regional Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and its historic position as the first CARICOM member to serve on the UN Human Rights Council.

Dr. Barnett extended her congratulations to Prime Minister Phillip Davis and the Bahamian people, expressing appreciation for The Bahamas’ contributions to regional development and its indomitable spirit.

Additionally, US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken congratulated The Bahamas on its anniversary, recognizing the strong partnership between the two nations. Blinken noted the shared efforts to address urgent concerns, including irregular migration, transnational crime, and climate change. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to deepening its partnership with The Bahamas, ensuring long-term prosperity and security for both countries.

“As you mark your 51st year of independence, the United States and the American people extend their best wishes to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Bahamian people in the year ahead,” Blinken said.

Burna Boy Silent Amid Steel Pulse’s Claims of Disrespect at Summer Jam Festival

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News Americas, New York, NY, Weds. July 10, 2024: Burna Boy has so far chosen to remain silent as Steel Pulse’s David “Electric” Hinds claims his band was disrespected by the security and crew of the Grammy-winning Afrobeats star at the 37th Summer Jam Festival in Cologne, Germany.

Steel Pulse’s David Hinds has claimed the band was disrespected by Burna Boy’s security. (Facebook image/David Hinds)

In a social media post, Hinds detailed how Steel Pulse was allegedly mistreated. Tagging his band, Burna Boy, and the festival’s official page, he wrote that Burna Boy’s security team and crew tried to evict them from their dressing room to accommodate the African singer’s large entourage.

Hinds mentioned that original band member Selwyn Brown was furious, and the team stood their ground, shocked by the treatment of a band that has significantly contributed to Reggae music. He criticized the Summer Jam Festival organizers, demanding an explanation for the perceived bullying by Burna Boy’s team. He also questioned the decision to erect a barricade, splitting the dressing rooms and making them feel like prisoners.

Hinds concluded by warning Reggae festival organizers that such behavior from Burna Boy’s entourage should not be tolerated in the Reggae community, a genre that stands for peace, love, and unity.

As of now, neither Summer Jam nor Burna Boy has responded to the allegations.

Summer Jam 2024, held from July 5-7, headlined Burna Boy and featured top Jamaican acts like Skillibeng, Konshens, Busy Signal, Lila Ike, Beenieman, and Ky-Mani Marley, among others.

Top 10 Caribbean Experiences of 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, Weds. July 10, 2024: The Caribbean offers a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences for travelers. According to TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, here are the top 10 experiences in the Caribbean for 2024, celebrating excellence and garnering rave reviews from the TripAdvisor community.

1. Ultimate Island Jeep Safari with Natural Pool, Baby Beach, Lunch – Aruba

Experience the natural beauty of Aruba on the Ultimate Island Jeep Safari. This eight-hour adventure includes off-roading, snorkeling, swimming, and cliff jumping. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the stunning sunset at the natural pool. This tour has a perfect 5.0 rating with over 5,600 reviews.

2. Adventure Bundle: Monkeyland, Ziplines & Buggies – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

This adrenaline-pumping bundle offers ziplining, a buggy ride, and a visit to Monkeyland. With top-notch safety equipment and beautiful sights, it’s a perfect family day out, earning it nearly 8,000 reviews and a high rating.

3. El Yunque Tour with Luquillo Lunch Stop and Transport – San Juan, Puerto Rico

Explore the El Yunque Rainforest on this small-group tour, complete with scenic hikes, wildlife encounters, and a delicious local lunch. This 4-6 hour tour is highly rated for its personal attention and immersive experience.

4. Icacos Island All-Inclusive Snorkel and Boat Tour – Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Spend a day snorkeling, swimming, and hiking on Icacos Island. This all-inclusive tour includes food, music, and drinks, making it a favorite among travelers for its relaxing and educational nature.

5. Morning Kayak Tour in Condado Lagoon – Puerto Rico

Glide through Condado Lagoon in a glass-bottom kayak and observe marine life below. This one-hour tour is ideal for all ages, providing a calm and eco-friendly way to explore the lagoon.

6. Pirate Jeep Sightseeing Adventure – New Providence Island, Bahamas

Embark on a Pirate Jeep Sightseeing Adventure to explore historical sites, taste local cuisine, and enjoy breathtaking views. This customizable three-hour tour is perfect for families and friends.

7. Expérience en bateau hors des sentiers battus du plus beau lagon de Guadeloupe – Basse-Terre Island, Guadeloupe

Navigate through Guadeloupe’s mangroves and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. This 4.5-hour boat tour includes local snacks and drinks, offering a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.

8. Stingray City Experience Plus Two Snorkeling Stops – Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Interact with friendly stingrays and snorkel in beautiful coral reefs. This three-hour tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable staff and well-maintained equipment.

9. Bahamas Adventure: Pigs, Reef, Turtles, and Beach with Lunch – New Providence Island, Bahamas

Enjoy snorkeling, feeding pigs, and turtle watching on this half-day tour. The crew is engaging and the beaches are picture-perfect, making it a memorable adventure for all ages.

10. Soufriere Volcano Experience – St. Lucia

Explore the Soufriere Volcano with personalized tours, mud baths, and stunning views of waterfalls and rainforests. This 7-8 hour tour offers a deep dive into St. Lucian culture and natural beauty.

These top experiences highlight the diversity and beauty of the Caribbean, offering something for every type of traveler. From thrilling adventures to relaxing escapes, the Caribbean continues to be a top destination for unforgettable travel experiences.

Caribbean NBA Player Signs With Golden State Warriors

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News Americas, New York, NY, Tues. July 9, 2024: The Golden State Warriors made a significant move in the 2024 NBA free agency period by securing a deal with Caribbean NBA sharpshooter Buddy Hield through a sign-and-trade agreement. This strategic acquisition is expected to bolster the Warriors’ roster with Hield’s impressive shooting skills.

Buddy Hield of the Bahamas in action during Finals of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament match between Spain and Bahamas at Pabellon Fuente de San Luis on July 07, 2024 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Borja B. Hojas/Getty Images)

The financial details of the Bahamas-born Hield’s contract, as reported by Spotrac and confirmed by the Warriors subreddit Twitter account, reveal a structured and performance-incentivized deal. In the first two seasons, Hield will earn a total of $18 million, with the second year providing just over half of that amount. The third year of his contract is partially guaranteed, offering Hield just over $9.6 million if the Warriors pick up the option. Should the Warriors choose to opt out, they would pay a $3 million buyout.

A similar arrangement exists for the fourth year of Hield’s contract. The Warriors can either retain him for approximately $10.1 million or opt out for a $3.1 million buyout. The decision dates for these options are set for the day after the NBA Draft, though these can be adjusted by mutual agreement, as seen in past instances such as with Chris Paul.

Hield also holds a player option for the fourth year, with a deadline of June 29, 2027. This stipulation means that both Hield and the Warriors need to be in agreement for him to stay for the 2027-28 season at the established rate.

If Hield remains with the Warriors for the entire four-year term, he will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2028. However, the Warriors will retain his Bird rights, allowing them to exceed the salary cap to re-sign him.

Hield’s addition to the Warriors underscores the team’s commitment to enhancing their line-up with skilled players and maintaining their competitive edge in the NBA, including Caribbean players.

10 Fast Facts About The UK’s New Caribbean Roots Foreign Secretary

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News Americas, LONDON, England, July 8, 2024: David Lammy’s appointment as the UK’s Foreign Secretary underscores the vital role of Caribbean heritage individuals in shaping global leadership.Here are 10 things to know about David Lammy, the UK’s new Foreign Secretary with Caribbean roots:

Caribbean roots David Lammy, UK foreign secretary, during a bilateral meeting with Melanie Joly, Canada’s foreign minister, in London, UK, on Monday, July 8, 2024. Lammy said, in May, that if his side wins, it would “get into negotiation” when the post-Brexit trade agreement is reviewed in 2025. Photographer: Neil Hall/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Guyanese Heritage:
David Lammy, 51, is the son of Guyanese immigrants. His appointment as Foreign Secretary highlights the significant contributions of Caribbean immigrants to British society. Lammy was born on 19 July 1972 in Whittington Hospital in Archway, London, to Guyanese parents David and Rosalind Lammy. He and his four siblings were raised solely by his mother, after his father left the family when Lammy was 12 years old.

Educational Background:
Lammy grew up in Tottenham, and went to Downhills Primary School. At the age of 10, Lammy was awarded an Inner London Education Authority choral scholarship to sing at Peterborough Cathedral and attend The King’s School, Peterborough. He went on to study law at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) and later attended Harvard Law School, becoming the first black Briton to do so.

Legal Career:
Called to the Bar of England and Wales in 1994, Lammy also worked as an attorney in California and is a visiting professor of practice at SOAS.

Political Career:
Lammy was elected as Labour MP for Tottenham at the age of 27 in June 2000. He has been a prominent figure in British politics for over two decades.

Ministerial Experience:
Lammy served nine years as a Minister in the Labour government and was appointed to the Privy Council in 2008. He has held various ministerial roles, including Minister for Culture and Minister for Higher Education.

Author and Advocate:
He authored ‘Out of the Ashes: Britain after the riots,’ a book exploring the causes of the 2011 riots and proposing solutions to prevent future unrest. He also chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Fatherhood.

Labour Party Victory:
The centre-left Labour Party won a landslide victory in Thursday’s parliamentary election, ending 14 years of Conservative government and promising to bring change to Britain.

Focus on International Relations:
In his first international trip as Foreign Secretary, Lammy plans to address key issues like the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israel–Hamas conflict, while seeking to reset the UK’s relations with the European Union.

Commitment to Regional Issues:
Lammy has expressed continued support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He is also aware of the impact of regional events, such as Hurricane Beryl, and advocates for international support and collaboration.

Critical of Slavery and Windrush

Lammy has spoken extensively on Britain’s history of slavery, calling for a deeper acknowledgment and understanding of its impact. He has also criticized the University of Oxford for its low admission rates of black students and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He has also been vocal about the Windrush scandal, highlighting it as a grave injustice to a generation of British citizens who have contributed significantly to the country and deserve fair and respectful treatment.

“Being part of the Commonwealth means being part of an immense Caribbean diaspora living across the globe. Having an inter-generational connection to people on the other side of the world gives me a sense of belonging, comfort and solidarity,” Lammy said as MP of Tottenham. “Every day I am inspired by my mother who came to Britain from Guyana as part of the Windrush Generation. She worked so hard to look after me and my siblings – without her efforts I would not be where I am today. As somebody who walks on the same pavement, past the same shops and through the same parks as I did as a boy, I want my constituents to know that people like them can and should sit in the Palace of Westminster.”

Caribbean Roots Hamilton Secures Emotional Victory at British Grand Prix

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News Americas, New York, NY, July 8, 2024: British racing driver Lewis Hamilton, whose roots trace back to the Caribbean, clinched a dramatic win at the wet-dry British Grand Prix, marking his first victory since December 2021.

Caribbean roots Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 is reacting after being sprayed with Champagne during the Formula 1 Qatar Airways British Grand Prix at the Silverstone Circuit in Towcester, England, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The race saw Hamilton triumph in a gripping battle against Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, securing his 104th career win and a record-breaking ninth victory at Silverstone.

Hamilton, whose father is of Grenadian descent, managed to fend off Verstappen’s late surge, despite the Red Bull driver’s strong performance in the closing laps, to take second place. Norris completed the podium, finishing third.

This race was particularly poignant for Hamilton, who was driving his final British Grand Prix for Mercedes before moving to Ferrari next year. Overcome with emotion, Hamilton told his team, “This means so much to me,” as they celebrated the victory over the radio.

Mercedes engineer Peter Bonnington echoed the sentiment, saying, “This one means a lot to us all,” to which Hamilton replied, “I love you, Bono.”

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff described the win as “a fairytale” for both Hamilton and the team.

Oscar Piastri, Norris’ teammate, finished fourth, with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz rounding out the top five in a thrilling race at Silverstone.

Grenada Keeps Old Citizenship by Investment Fee For Now Following Hurricane Beryl

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, New York, NY, July 8, 2024: On the heels of Hurricane Beryl, officials in Grenada have extended the fee increase deadline for applicants to its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.

A family stands outside their home destroyed by Hurricane Beryl in Grenada. ( UNICEF/Sam Ogilvie image)

A statement issued by the Investment Migration Agency (IMA), which manages the program, noted that a revised pricing structure was scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2024. However, Grenada, along with other countries in the Windward Islands, was impacted by the category 4 storm, which caused widespread damage and disruption on the same day the new pricing structure was due to be implemented.

“Acknowledging the unforeseen challenges faced by our valued partners during this period, the Agency has decided to extend the application submission deadline to July 12, 2024,” the IMA said. “This extension aims to provide agents and the bank adequate time to effectively manage their responsibilities considering recent events, thereby ensuring the smooth processing of applications under the updated pricing framework.”

The IMA emphasized that the hurricane impacted the ability of agents and the Grenada Co-operative Bank to meet the original application submission deadline, as it required time for preparation, recovery, and subsequent operational adjustments.

Grenada, alongside Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St. Kitts-Nevis, and St. Lucia, is part of the sub-regional Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States that signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a minimum investment threshold of US$200,000, effective July 1, 2024.

Grenada’s revised pricing structure, published in an extraordinary government gazette on June 26, sets the threshold for a single applicant under the National Transformation Fund at US$235,000. For those investing in an approved project, the cost is US$270,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four.

The IMA clarified that only fully completed applications submitted to Grenada Co-operative Bank Limited by June 30, 2024, with all required documents, will be accepted under the old price structure. Applications submitted by this date but incomplete will be processed under the new price structure once all required documents are provided.

Furthermore, any applications accepted under the old price structure but pending bank clearance must resolve all matters to the bank’s satisfaction and have funds received and cleared for submission to the IMA by July 31, 2024.

This extension is intended to ensure that all stakeholders can manage their responsibilities effectively in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, thus supporting the continued success of Grenada’s CBI program.