THA Minority Leader sorry for Duke nomination…

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

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THA Minority Leader Kelvon Morris – JEFF K MAYERS

THA Minority Leader Kelvon Morris has apologised for nominating political leader of the Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) Watson Duke to the position of Deputy Chief Secretary.

In a special sitting on Monday at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex to elect a depty following Duke’s resignation on September 15, presiding officer Abby Taylor declared the seat vacant after she informed the House of the resignation.

THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine rose to his feet and nominated Health Secretary Dr Faith BYisrael, which was seconded by Assistant Secretary in the Tourism division. As Taylor called for more nominees, Morris rose, nominating Duke, much to the surprise of everyone gathered. However, it could not be seconded by Councillor Petal Daniel-Benoit as she is not an elected member of the House.

In a response later that evening, Morris took to social media to apologise for the nomination, quoting Weston H Agor, “making mistakes simply mean you are learning faster.”

“I made a grave error in judgement where I attempted to stroke some more discord by nominating Watson Duke as an alternative choice for the House to have a vote. Indeed it was one that I deeply regret and wish I could undo, however it’s a lesson that I would never forget and one I would never repeat going forward.”

Morris, the electoral representative for Darrel Spring/ Whim is the lone successful People’s National Movement (PNM) candidate, after the Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) won the THA elections by a landslide 14-1.

Contacted for comment on Tuesday, Political Leader of the PNM Tobago Council Ancil Dennis described the event as unfortunate and “definitely contrary to the PNM’s position.”

“However, having spoken to the Minority Leader, I think it boils down to inexperience on his path and it is something that he can definitely learn from.”

He added: “He continues to have my support, he continues to have the support of the PNM Tobago Council and this matter would continue to be dealt with internally as I don’t wish to engage in any further public debate on this matter. It happened, we discussed it, I think he understands clearly the gravity of the mistake and therefore it is a matter of learning and ensuring that this doesn’t happen again.”

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Seprod to begin shipping products to Guatemala next month Loop Jamaica

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Jamaica News Loop News

Food manufacturer and distributor Seprod has gained a toehold in Central America and will begin shipping products to Guatemala in October.

Seprod’s entry into the Hispanic market forms part of its strategic objective to increase export sales by accelerating growth in North America and the Caribbean, even as it explores European markets.

It has set a target to double exports every three years.

“This is not a stretch target, this is our base expectation, and it is comprised of our own brands and brands that we co-manufacture for other companies,” said Seprod CEO Richard Pandohie.

According to Pandohie, the growth trajectory is in line with the reopening of more countries as the threat of the coronavirus eases and Seprod’s growth rate over the past few years.

Addressing the company’s annual general meeting on Monday, Pandohie said Seprod has seen its exports grow from less than two per cent of its total manufacturing base to 15 per cent over the last four years.

To coincide with this growth trajectory, Seprod is looking to create products that can cross over to non-Caribbean consumers.

An example of this is sorrel.

“This drink is almost exclusively consumed at Christmas in the Caribbean, but it is a staple beverage in many Latin American countries throughout the year,” Pandohie said.

To this end, Seprod has produced “Delite Flor de Jamaica” to target the Latin American diaspora, which Pandohie said is almost eight times the size of the Caribbean diaspora.

Seprod also indicated that it would collaborate with various stakeholders to bring new products, new practices, and new consumer experiences to its markets.

Seprod’s revenues for 2021 totalled $43.8 billion, a 16 per cent increase over the comparative year. The improved performance was due to price adjustments and volume mix.

Meanwhile, the normalised trading operating profit margin was eight per cent, decreasing from 10 per cent in 2020.

Operating profit for 2021 totalled $3.5 billion, compared to $4.6 billion in the previous year. The 2020 amount includes a one-off gain of $762 million from the sale of a property.

Seprod said the decrease in normalised operating profit margin was due to the partial cost absorption as it tried to cushion the rising input cost to consumers and the impact of a massive fire on the distribution business.

“The results for 2021, regardless of external events and a one-off internal traumatic incident, were solid despite not having the positive profit growth trajectory of previous years,” Pandohie said.

Seprod has undertaken some major initiatives; built a state-of-the-art milling facility, bought Nestle factory and consolidated the two dairy operations, bought Supligen and Betty brands globally, and bought Facey Commodity, food and pharmaceutical distribution business, that acquisition doubled Seprod’s revenue base.

It recently acquired AS Brydens and Sons, which again doubles the revenue base and gives the company a critical footprint in Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago.

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Tropical wave update:Montitoring large area of disorganised convection Loop Barbados

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Barbados News

Update: Tuesday,September 20, 2022 at 11:58 AM

The Barbados Meteorological Services continues to closely monitor the progress of a Tropical wave located near 54W south of 14N at 12 noon today.

Current Situation:

Over the past 12 hours, satellite imagery continued to show a large area of disorganised convection associated with the system tracking westward at around 10 to 15 knots (20 to 30 km/h).

Intensity and track Forecast:

Current model guidance is in agreement with a track south of Barbados during the day on Wednesday.

Rapid intensification of the system is unlikely as it approaches Barbados and the southern Windward islands. However, further analysis suggests some slow development as the system moves into the Caribbean Sea by the end of the week.

With Barbados on the northern fringe of the activity, there is the possibility of one to three inches of rainfall as the wave affects the island from Wednesday. Winds are likely to be between 20 to 25 knots (35 to 45 km/h) with higher gusts possible during heavy shower activity. An additional one to two inches of rainfall are possible as activity trailing the wave persists across the island into Thursday, September 22, 2022.

The next update will be at 6 pm today, Tuesday, September 20, 2022.

[Orginal story: September 19, at 6pm]

The Barbados Meteorological Services is closely monitoring the progress of a tropical wave located near 48W south of 13N as of 11 am today (September 19, 2022).

According to the statement issued, convection associated with the tropical wave is disorganized at this time as it moves slowly westward at 10 to 15 knots.

Current model guidance suggests that any development will be slow to occur over the next few days. However, regardless of development, the tropical wave is expected to affect the island sometime between Wednesday and Thursday this week.

During its passage, there is the possibility of two to four inches of rainfall and a deterioration in sea conditions which may warrant the issuance of watches/warnings from tomorrow, Tuesday, September 20, 2022.

The next update will be in 24 hours, around 12 noon tomorrow or sooner if conditions warrant.

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Over belastingvrijstellingen en privileges: wiens belasting is het eigenlijk?

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: De Ware Tijd Online

INGEZONDEN “Als het mijn belasting was dan bleef het geld wel in mijn zak”, mopper ik vaak terwijl ik mijn

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Appleton Estate Decades comes to Cayman Islands Loop Cayman Islands

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Cayman Compass

Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum recently launched its Appleton Estate Decades in the Cayman Islands in its bid to promote the premiumisation of rum.

“We have always made efforts to secure the best for our consumers and we are here to tell all rum collectors that a new asset will be making its way to the shores of Cayman,” said Beverage Division Manager for Jacques Scott Wines and Spirits Limited, John Alban.

“We will be distributing Appleton Estate Decades- so far, the product has drawn much interest in the industry, and we anticipate that it will do well here,” Alban added.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Finance & Economic Development, Christopher Saunders (r) and Minister for Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage Bernie Bush paused for a quick photo with Dr Joy Spence, Master Blender Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum at the recently launched Appleton Estate Decades event at the Ave Restaurant, Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa.

Rum collectors and enthusiasts from the Cayman Islands got a chance to obtain their own bottle of Appleton Estate Decades, from local distributors Jacques Scott Wines & Spirits Limited at the Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa, where the rum was launched in fine style.

Among the attendees were several ministers of the government, including Deputy Premier and Minister for Finance & Economic Development Christopher Saunders, Minister for Tourism and Transport Kenneth Bryan, Minister for Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage Bernie Bush and other senior government officials.

Jamaica’s brand champion Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism who was in Cayman for the Caribbean Tourism Association Conference, shared in the festivities of the evening.

Dr Joy Spence CD, surrounded by Jacques Scott’s (L-R) Cedric Gidarsingh Beverage Division Brand Manager, Guy Scott, Financial Controller and John Alban, Beverage Division Manager at the launch of Appleton Estate Decades held at the Ave Restaurant at the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa recently.

Appleton Estate’s premium expressions are said to be celebrated as some of the finest rums in the world, comprising an award-winning core range.

“However, it is also a well-known fact among rum enthusiasts globally that the brand’s continued commitment to launching limited-edition, super prestigious offerings have also put them in the spotlight. It is with this that we announce the latest prestigious exclusive offering, Appleton Estate Decades,” said master blender and Tourism Ambassador for Jamaica, Dr Joy Spence.

“I am delighted to share my deep passion for rum-making with this new release. As one of the oldest rum distilleries in Jamaica, we continue to make history with the introduction of this never-before-done blend of rums from each of the last six decades. I am honoured to have played a part in the creation of this unique, premium expression, a celebration of my country’s 60th anniversary of independence. I am also deeply honoured to represent Jamaica in the Cayman Islands, a territory with which we share a deep, storied history,” Spence added.

(L-R) Cedric Gidarsingh Beverage Division Manager, Jacques Scott, Mark Telfer Brand Manager Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, Kamal Powell, Regional Marketing Manager Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, Dr Joy Spence Master Blender and Tourism Ambassador for Jamaica, Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism Jamaica and Dr Joseph Marzouca, Honourary Consul, were all smiles at the launch of Appleton Estate Decades held at the Ave Restaurant at the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa on September 13.

Appleton Estate Decades is composed of the finest rums that have been hand-selected over the last 6 decades of Jamaica’s independence, resulting in a luxurious and rare liquid blend to celebrate Jamaica’s history and heritage. Only 1,962 bottles were produced, in tribute to Jamaica’s year of independence.

At the Appleton Estate Decades Jamaica Rum launch at the salubrious Sunken Garden at Hope Botanical Gardens in Kingston, bottle number 1,962, signed by Spence, was auctioned for USD $16,000, almost 10 times its original retail price of USD $1,700.

Appleton Estate Decades reveals smooth notes of honey and molasses on the nose with a luxurious flavour profile of nutmeg, walnut, maple, and vanilla finishing with notes of soft oak and bright orange zest. The rum, with an ABV of 45%, presents a dark amber hue ending with a silky finish.

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Gap slashes 500 corporate jobs in cost-cutting move Loop Jamaica

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Jamaica News Loop News

Gap is slashing 500 corporate jobs in San Francisco and New York as it looks to reduce expenses amid languishing sales.

The job cuts, confirmed by a company spokesperson, follow years of struggle at the San Francisco-based retailer, which operates its namesake stores as well as the Old Navy, Banana Republic and Athleta chains.

The pandemic and surging supply chain costs have exerted even more of a financial toll on the retailer. And last week, Gap and Kanye West ended their partnership to distribute the rap artist’s Yeezy clothing line. The partnership was announced two years ago with much fanfare.

As of Jan. 29, the company had a workforce of roughly 97,000 employees; nine per cent of them or roughly 8,700, work in corporate sites, according to its latest annual report.

The news comes as a string of other retailers have trimmed their staffing including Walmart, Best Buy and Peloton. Home goods retailer Bed Bath & Beyond, based in Union, New Jersey, said earlier this month that it will close about 150 of its namesake’s stores and slash its workforce by 20 per cent.

Gap’s executive chairman Bob Martin, who is also the interim CEO of Gap Inc., noted in August that the company plans to reduce operating costs to increase profitability. Martin is presiding over the helm as the company looks to fill the vacancy left when Gap CEO Sonia Syngal stepped down in July.

For the three-month period ended July 30, Gap reported an eight per cent drop in net sales. By brand, Gap posted a 10 per cent decline, while Old Navy, once a bright spot, saw a 13 per cent drop as the division caters to lower-income shoppers who have been hit by surging inflation. Banana Republic’s sales rose nine per cent and Athleta’s sales rose one per cent. The company swung to a loss of $49 million in the quarter, compared to a profit of $258 million in the year-ago period.

The news of Gap’s layoffs was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.

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Trooper bashes some entertainers for no show at Merciless’ funeral Loop Jamaica

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Jamaica News Loop News
Loop News

36 minutes ago

Trooper speaks out after Funeral Service for Merciless

NEWYou can now listen to Loop News articles!

Veteran producer, Ricky Trooper has lashed out at several artistes for not turning up at the funeral service of late dancehall artiste Leonard ‘Merciless’ Bartley.

Bartley was laid to rest Saturday, September 17 at St Gabriel’s Anglican Church Hall on Church Street in May Pen, Clarendon.

He was 51.

Scores of people from all walks of life came out to pay their final respects.

But at the end of the service Trooper said he was disappointed that more entertainers did not turn out.

Merciless was found dead at a motel off Beechwood Avenue, St Andrew on July 19, hours after he complained of not feeling well.

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CARICOM ‘Gravely Concerned’ Over Haiti’s Deteriorating Security Situation – St. Lucia Times News

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: St. Lucia Times News

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The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) declared on Monday that the group is ‘gravely concerned’ over continuing deterioration of the security situation and social circumstances in Haiti.

“The continued breakdown in law and order, and its distressing effect on the people of Haiti, is intensifying,” a CARICOM statement observed.

And the statement indicated that the inability of the Haitian security forces to address ongoing violence made the situation worse.

According to CARICOM, the unrest is negatively impacting Haiti’s already weak economy, leading to even more mass demonstrations.

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“Especially the worsening social conditions and the limited availability of food require urgent and immediate attention from the international community,” CARICOM stated.

“This persistently distressing situation is untenable,” the regional grouping observed.

It called for meaningful engagement of all stakeholders to find a way forward, put Haiti first and urgently address the situation.

“CARICOM, following discussions in the past weeks, remains available to assist and work with international partners to mobilize financial and technical resources to facilitate a process towards normalization and ultimately the holding of free, fair and credible general elections,” the statement noted.

The CARICOM statement came against the backdrop of socioeconomic and political chaos in Haiti, as turf wars among rival gangs escalate.

Media reports indicate that as many as 200 heavily armed factions are estimated to be carving up the capital, Port-au-Prince.

The result has been that many areas that had been relatively safe are now engulfed in street warfare and innocent people are being killed in the crossfire.

Headline photo: Haiti unrest stock image

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Prime Minister Gaston Browne pleads case of island states during meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Antigua News Room

As chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne participated in an Open Exchange with the new German  Chancellor Olaf Scholz earlier today.

The meeting is only one of several bilateral and multilateral engagements that will hold the attention all the country’s Prime Minister on his visit to New York for the 77th United Nations General Assembly.

Prime Minister Browne was accompanied by Minister of Education the Hon. Daryll Matthew. Also in attendance were the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi and the Prime Minister of Tuvalu Kausea Natano.

Prime Minister Browne used the opportunity to plead the case of small island states who remain under the constant threat of extreme climatic conditions.

A major priority for Antigua and Barbuda as Chair of AOSIS at COP27 is the establishment of a funding facility to finance Loss and Damage.

“COP27 must show the political will to address the climate crisis like the crisis that it is, and the responses that we have seen for the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the energy security crises,” Prime Minister Browne stated.

Against this background, Prime Minister Browne urged for the inclusion of Loss and Damage as an item on the COP 27 agenda and ultimately for the establishment of such a funding arrangement by the end of the meeting, which will take place in Egypt later this year.

He also took Germany to task for reactivating coal plants even as the goal to stay below 1.5 remains under threat because of the hesitancy by industrialised nations to shift meaningfully away from their dependence on fossil fuels.

Prime Minister Browne also tabled several solutions for Germany’s consideration in supporting the needs of Small Island States (SIDS), one of which is the Multidimensional Vulnerabilty Index (MVI) where Prime Minister Browne is the Co-Chair of the UN Expert Panel on the MVI

Once agreed by UN Member States, the MVI  will take into account the unique vulnerabilities for island states as they seek to build resilience from climate change and other global shocks. The MVI will allow middle and high-income SIDS to gain access to concessional financing and other development support irrespective of their income status.

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Tropical Disturbance AL98 is now expected to form in 5 days and likely to form in 48 hours

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Antigua News Room

Central Tropical Atlantic:

A tropical wave located a few hundred miles east of the Windward Islands continues to show signs of organization.

Additional development is expected, and a tropical depression is likely to form within the next few days as the system moves westward to west-northwestward at 15 to 20 mph across the eastern and central Caribbean Sea.

Interests in the Windward Islands should closely monitor the progress of this system as heavy rainfall and gusty winds could affect these islands beginning on Wednesday.

* Formation chance through 48 hours…medium…60 percent.

* Formation chance through 5 days…high…80 percent.

Eastern Tropical Atlantic:

A tropical wave is forecast to move off the west coast of Africa in a couple of days.  Thereafter, environmental conditions appear marginally favorable for some development while the system moves northward between west Africa and the Cabo Verde Islands through the end of the week.

* Formation chance through 48 hours…low…near 0 percent.

* Formation chance through 5 days…low…20 percent.

Public Advisories on Tropical Depression Eight are issued under WMO

header WTNT33 KNHC and under AWIPS header MIATCPAT3.

Forecast/Advisories on Tropical Depression Eight are issued under

WMO header WTNT23 KNHC and under AWIPS header MIATCMAT3.

Forecaster Bucci###

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