Caribbean Roots Chef Among The Dead On Sunk Sicily Yacht

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. August 26, 2024: The body of Caribbean roots chef Ricardo Thomas is among those recovered after the sinking of the £30 million superyacht Bayesian, owned by British billionaire Mike Lynch.

Caribbean roots Chef Ricardo Thomas has died on the Bayesian superyacht. (facebook image)

Chef Ricardo Thomas, born in Canada to Antiguan parents, had been living in Antigua for the past 20 years at his family’s home in Clare Hall. He is being fondly remembered by loved ones following the tragic accident that claimed his life near the coast of Sicily on August 19th.

Caribbean roots Chef Ricardo Thomas was born in Antigua to Antiguan parents.

The Bayesian was struck by a powerful storm on Monday, August 19th, causing it to sink around 5 a.m. local time near Porticello, Italy, according to a statement from the Italian coast guard. At the time of the incident, 22 people were aboard the yacht, including 12 passengers and 10 crew members. While 15 people were rescued, Thomas was among those who perished.

Thomas was celebrated by friends as a beloved figure in his community and a cherished friend. “He was a one-of-a-kind, special human being,” a close friend shared with The Independent, noting that they spoke to him “nearly every day.” Another longtime friend, Eli Fuller, emphasized how important Thomas was as a role model for young Antiguans. “He was sought after in his line of work, and for kids in Antigua to see one of their own traveling the world on yachts was inspiring.”

Gareth Williams, who had known Thomas for 30 years, revealed that the chef had been working to help his family. “He told me just the other day that he needed to work two more seasons to fix up his late parents’ house. He loved yachting, but he was tired.”

The search for missing bodies continues, with those recovered so far including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and his daughter Hannah, along with Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer, his wife Judy, and New York lawyer Christopher Morvillo and his wife Neda.

Investigations are now focused on how the Bayesian, considered “unsinkable” by its manufacturer, the Italian Sea Group, could have gone down so quickly. CEO Giovanni Costantino has pointed to potential crew errors as the cause of the tragedy, stating in an interview with the Financial Times that the yacht sank in 16 minutes, a timeframe that should have allowed for a safe evacuation.

The ill-fated voyage was reportedly hosted by Lynch to celebrate his recent acquittal on fraud charges in the U.S.

Caribbean Roots Actress Stars In Zoe Kravitz’ Blink Twice

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. August, 26, 2024: Caribbean roots star Naomi Sarah Ackie lit up the screen this weekend as ‘Blink Twice,’ the movie from Zoë Kravitz, opened in fourth place with $7.3 million.

Caribbean roots actress Naomi Ackie attending the European premiere of “Blink Twice” at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square on August 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Jo Hale/FilmMagic)

Ackie, 32, the daughter of second-generation immigrants from Grenada, stars opposite Kravitz’ real life fiancee, Channing Tatum, who plays tech billionaire Slater King. He invites Ackie, who plays cocktail waitress and aspiring nail artist Frida, to join him and his friends on a dream vacation on his private island. Wild nights blend into sun-soaked days, and everyone’s having a great time. plays cocktail waitress and aspiring nail artist Frida, who ventures to the island alongside friend Jess (Alia Shawkat) and strangers Sarah (Adria Arjona), Camilla (Liz Caribel), and Heather (Trew Mullen). Their host, Slater, is a fresh off of an apology tour from some kind of undisclosed misconduct and claims he’s a changed man.

When the guests arrive, their phones are collected, they’re given matching linen dresses and swimsuits, and then the booze, drugs, and gourmet delights come out. What could go wrong? As it turns out, plenty. Jess goes missing, the maid (María Elena Olivares) keeps repeating cryptic phrases (“red rabbit”?). Manipulations and abuse rise to the surface. Soon Frida, like Daniel Kaluuya’s Chris in Get Out, goes from cheery to petrified – and joins forces with the other women to plot bloody revenge.

Blink Twice reportedly cost a modest $20 million to produce before marketing and received a B- CinemaScore from audiences. The film is from MGM and Amazon, with Warner Bros. handling overseas.

Ackie, born in London, is known for her television roles as Bonnie in The End of the F***ing World (2019) and Master of None (2021) and for her role as Jannah in the film Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019). In 2022, she portrayed American singer Whitney Houston in the biopic ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody.’

Her father was a Transport for London employee and her mother worked for the National Health Service. She is one of three children and has an older brother and sister. She went to Walthamstow School for Girls.

Her first role was at the age of 11, playing the angel Gabriel in a school nativity play. She studied at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and graduated in 2012.’

Blink Twice was shot in Yucatán, Mexico. plays cocktail waitress and aspiring nail artist Frida, who ventures to the island alongside friend Jess (Alia Shawkat) and strangers Sarah (Adria Arjona), Camilla (Liz Caribel), and Heather (Trew Mullen). Their host, Slater, is a fresh off of an apology tour from some kind of undisclosed misconduct and claims he’s a changed man. When the guests arrive, their phones are collected, they’re given matching linen dresses and swimsuits, and then the booze, drugs, and gourmet delights come out. What could go wrong?
As it turns out, plenty. Jess goes missing, the maid (María Elena Olivares) keeps repeating cryptic phrases (“red rabbit”?). Manipulations and abuse rise to the surface. Soon Frida, like Daniel Kaluuya’s Chris in Get Out, goes from cheery to petrified — and joins forces with the other women to plot bloody revenge.

Ackie recently shared a funny story in a candid interview with PEOPLE about her experience with rock musician Lenny Kravitz, the father of Zoe Kravitz, whose mother also has roots in the Caribbean. Ackie shared that during the making of Blink Twice, while she was going through her filming activities, she went out from her bedroom and found herself face to face with Lenny Kravitz right outside.

Since they had never met before, Lenny Kravitz, known for his hit songs like “Are You Gonna Go My Way?”, introduced himself in a friendly manner. However, so overwhelmed by how famous he was that she automatically shut the door.

“I’d never met him before. I opened my bedroom door, and Lenny was just there. He was like, ‘Hi, you must be Naomi. I’m Lenny.’ I was like — I shut the door.” After getting herself together for a second, however, Ackie reopened the door to greet Kravitz properly. I took a moment to calm down and then said, ‘Okay, now I’m ready,’” she recalled.

For a glimpse of Ackie in Blink Twice, check out the clip here: Watch Now.

VP Kamala Harris’ Record On Central America and the Caribbean

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 22, 2024: Over the past three years as U.S. Vice President, Kamala Harris, a Black, Caribbean, and South Asian American, has played a crucial role in addressing key challenges in Central America and the Caribbean. Her initiatives, particularly in tackling the root causes of migration and strengthening U.S. relations with regional partners, have been significant, according to Jason Marczak, Vice President and Senior Director of the Atlantic Council’s Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center. Here’s a look at her efforts:

US Vice President, Caribbean and South Asian American Kamala Harris speaks at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, US, on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024. (Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Leading the Root Causes Strategy for Central American Migration:

Appointed in April 2021 to spearhead efforts addressing migration from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.

Convened a group of experts to craft strategies focused on transparency, economic development, security, and governance.

Launched a five-pillar strategy in June 2021 to work with in-country stakeholders on reducing migration drivers.

Helped secure over $5.2 billion in commitments from companies and organizations to invest in the region.

Oversaw a significant reduction in migration from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador to the U.S. border.

Strengthening U.S.-Caribbean Relations:

Became the highest-ranking U.S. official to visit The Bahamas in June 2023, co-hosting the U.S.-Caribbean Leaders Meeting.

Prioritized collaboration on climate change, food security, and security issues, including arms trafficking.

Secured a $100 million U.S. assistance package to address regional challenges, including Haiti’s humanitarian crisis.

Promoting Long-Term Economic Security in Central America and the Caribbean:

Advocated for providing local organizations with technical and financial resources to foster job creation and human capital development.

Focused on combating corruption and enhancing governance to support sustainable development.

Applying a “Listen, Act, Follow Up” Approach:

Met with regional leaders to understand their priorities before crafting strategies.

Implemented long-term solutions, adjusting tactics based on evolving conditions in the region.

Harris’ work in Central America and the Caribbean underscores her commitment to tackling complex issues that require thoughtful, adaptive solutions. As she continues to define her potential foreign policy as a presidential candidate, these experiences offer insight into how she might navigate the global stage and these regions.

This Luxury Retreat Will Be Coming To The Bahamas

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News Americas, New York, NY, Thursday, August 22, 2024: Exuma, the pristine Bahamian archipelago of 365 islands, is set to welcome a new level of luxury as Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® partners with Yntegra Group to launch the Rosewood Exuma retreat. This exclusive island getaway, developed on East Sampson Cay, is designed to merge high-end luxury with the natural beauty of the Exumas, providing an unforgettable experience for elite travelers and ocean enthusiasts.

Rosewood Exuma retreat. is coming to the Bahamas.

The Rosewood Exuma resort, nestled within 124 acres of untouched paradise, will feature 33 elegantly designed suites with breathtaking views of the island’s famous pink and white sands and crystal-clear waters. Many suites will be located right on the shoreline, offering guests an immersive experience of the Exumas’ serene environment. Through Rosewood’s A Sense of Place® philosophy, the resort will reflect the local culture and ambiance, ensuring an authentic Bahamian experience for visitors.

Guests will enjoy six distinctive dining options at Rosewood Exuma, with a focus on local flavors and produce from the resort’s own organic garden. The resort will also feature Rosewood’s signature wellness concept, Asaya®, within a 20,000-square-foot sanctuary offering a range of treatments inspired by traditional Bahamian practices. The wellness center will include six treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy facility, an outdoor pool, and a fully equipped fitness center.

For those seeking adventure, the resort will offer an outdoor sports center with tennis, padel, and pickleball courts, as well as watersports equipment. Families can enjoy two pools, including a family-friendly option, and children will be engaged through the Rosewood Explorers club, which fosters curiosity and creativity with activities promoting environmental awareness.

A luxurious beach club will serve as a central hub for relaxation, featuring a grill restaurant, beach and pool bars, and a private dining room. The development will also include two marinas capable of docking yachts up to 150 feet, catering to sailing enthusiasts exploring the surrounding archipelago.

Sustainability is a key focus of the Rosewood Exuma project, with only 25% of the island undergoing development to minimize environmental impact. The resort will incorporate eco-friendly construction practices, including the use of solar energy, to preserve the natural beauty of the Exumas and create a sustainable legacy for future generations.

Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “We have conceived Rosewood Exuma to offer a next-generation luxury experience – one that honors the quintessential character of this pristine archipelago and invites guests on a journey of discovery and adventure.”

Felipe MacLean, CEO of Yntegra Group, emphasized the shared vision between the two companies, adding, “This partnership represents our commitment to creating exceptional experiences while being responsible community partners in Exuma.”

Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism for the Bahamas, welcomed the development, noting, “The introduction of Rosewood Exuma represents an exciting milestone for our tourism industry, highlighting the unmatched luxury and adventure that Exuma offers while emphasizing our commitment to sustainable and balanced growth.”

The Rosewood Exuma retreat promises to be a transformative addition to the Caribbean luxury landscape, combining elegance with environmental responsibility in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. No date was given for the completion or opening so far.

West Indies To Face South Africa Today

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. Aug. 23, 2024: West Indies head coach Daren Sammy is determined to transform the regional cricket team from a series-winning side into a championship-winning force ahead of the next T20 World Cup in 2026. As the white-ball head coach, Sammy has set his sights on achieving consistency and excellence, the Windies prepare for their upcoming three-match T20 series against South Africa, which begins today, August 23, 2024 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad.

West Indies men face South Africa in Trinidad from today, Aug. 23, 2024.

Despite the West Indies winning four of their last five T20 series, including a dominant 3-0 sweep over South Africa in May, the team was eliminated at the Super 8 stage of the recent T20 World Cup by the Proteas. Sammy, who led the West Indies to T20 World Cup titles in 2012 and 2016, emphasized the need for consistency and growth if the team aims to reclaim their championship status.

“We need to find ways to continuously evolve and improve. I want us to become a championship-winning team,” Sammy said. “Right now, we are a series-winning team. We play one team over a three or five-game period, and we know what to do, but I want this team to be able to play different opposition in a tournament and deliver every single game.”

Sammy stressed that while the long-term goal is to win championships, the immediate focus is on winning the upcoming series against South Africa. “I wouldn’t call it revenge, but it’s a great opportunity for us to regroup and refocus. Winning the series is our main goal, but we also want to fine-tune the areas where we need to improve to win tournaments,” he added.

The three-match T20 series against South Africa will run from August 23 to 27, 2024, in Trinidad. The West Indies squad for the series includes:

Rovman Powell (Captain)

Roston Chase (Vice-Captain)

Alick Athanaze

Johnson Charles

Matthew Forde

Shimron Hetmyer

Fabian Allen

Shai Hope

Akeal Hosein

Shamar Joseph

Obed McCoy

Gudakesh Motie

Nicholas Pooran

Sherfane Rutherford

Romario Shepherd

With Sammy’s vision and leadership, the West Indies will be looking to build momentum, starting with the series against South Africa, as they set their sights on future championships.

Caribbean Projected To Grow By Over 8 Percent In 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. August 23, 2024: The Caribbean region is on track to experience economic growth of 8.4 percent in 2024, largely driven by the remarkable expansion of Guyana’s economy. However, without factoring in Guyana, the region’s projected growth rate drops significantly to just 2.6 percent, according to the latest annual report from the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, (ECLAC).

Guyana, with its rapidly expanding oil sector, is expected to lead the Caribbean in growth, with an estimated 29.2 percent increase in 2024. In contrast, the growth forecast for 2025 for the region, including Guyana, is projected to drop to 6.3 percent. Excluding Guyana, the rate will fall even further to just 2.23 percent.

The following is the projected growth by country for 2024 and 2025, according to ECLAC data:

Country2024 Growth Rate (%)2025 Growth Rate (%)Guyana29.217.8Antigua and Barbuda6.34.8Dominican Republic5.24.5Saint Vincent and the Grenadines4.74.6Dominica4.64.3Belize4.13.8Grenada4.13.7Barbados3.72.8Saint Lucia3.42.0Saint Kitts and Nevis3.02.7Suriname2.42.7Trinidad and Tobago2.42.2Bahamas2.31.8Jamaica1.81.7Cuba0.51.0

This growth projection highlights the economic challenges facing the region, particularly when Guyana’s extraordinary growth is excluded. While other Caribbean nations are showing positive growth rates, the disparity underscores the critical role that Guyana’s oil boom is playing in the region’s overall economic performance.

U.S. Expresses Disappointment In CARICOM’s Stance On Venezuela

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 22, 2024: The Biden administration has expressed disappointment that only two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states, Guyana and Suriname, endorsed a joint statement advocating for democracy in Venezuela. The statement, issued on August 16 by 22 nations in Santo Domingo, calls for transparency in Venezuela’s July 28 election results and respect for the will of the people.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro speaks during a demonstration to defend the supposed victory in the presidential elections in Caracas, Venezuela on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Pedro Rances Mattey/Anadolu via Getty Images)

U.S. Ambassador to Guyana and CARICOM, Nicole Theriot, praised Guyana and Suriname for their support. “We are incredibly pleased to have these partners standing with us in defending democracy in the region and globally,” she told Demerara News online while highlighting Guyana’s growing role as a global leader.

Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, also emphasized the importance of the statement, urging Caribbean nations to choose the right side of history in supporting democracy. Meanwhile, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), including countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, congratulated President Nicolás Maduro on his re-election, calling for national reconciliation.

Despite this, the U.S. remains disappointed that the majority of CARICOM states did not endorse the joint statement, reaffirming the importance of democratic principles in the region. The 22 signatory nations also called for the release of arbitrarily detained individuals, including opposition figures in Venezuela.

Signatory countries in alphabetical order were:

Republic of Argentina

Canada

Republic of Chile

Republic of Costa Rica

Czech Republic

Dominican Republic

Republic of Ecuador

Kingdom of España

Republic of Guatemala

Cooperative Republic of Guyana

Italian Republic

Kingdom of Morocco

Kingdom of the Netherlands

Republic of Panamá

Republic of Paraguay

Republic of Perú

Portuguese Republic

Marley Brothers Announce Historic 2024 Legacy Tour

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News Americas, New York, NY, Thurs. August 22, 2024: The Marley Brothers – Ziggy, Stephen, Julian, Ky-Mani, and Damian – have announced The Marley Brothers: The Legacy Tour, their first tour together in two decades. Produced by Live Nation, the 22-date tour will kick off on September 5, 2024, at Festival Lawn in Deer Lake Park, Vancouver, BC, and will cover major cities across the U.S. and Canada through the fall.

This historic tour celebrates the enduring legacy of their father, reggae legend Bob Marley, whose music remains a symbol of strength, hope, and unity worldwide. For over 30 years, the Marley brothers have each made their mark as solo artists, collectively earning 22 GRAMMY® Awards. Julian Marley added to the family’s accolades with his 2024 Grammy win for “Best Reggae Album.”

The Legacy Tour will feature both individual hits from the brothers and classic Bob Marley songs, paying tribute to their father’s global influence as the world approaches what would have been Bob Marley’s 80th birthday in 2025. Fans can purchase tickets at MarleyBrothers.com.

Adding to the excitement, the tour will offer immersive VIP packages, including pre-show soundcheck access and VIP lounge experiences. For more details, visit VIPNation.com.

This tour follows the success of the Bob Marley biopic, Bob Marley: One Love, and marks the 40th anniversary of his revolutionary album, Legend, further highlighting his lasting impact on culture.

The 2024 Legacy Tour dates will take the brothers to iconic venues, including Forest Hills Stadium in Queens, NY, PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ, and the FPL Solar Amphitheatre in Miami, FL, where the tour concludes on October 5.

The Marley Brothers are individually celebrated for their unique contributions to music, from Ziggy Marley’s pioneering fusion of reggae with other genres to Damian Marley’s groundbreaking collaborations with artists like Nas and Skrillex. Together, they continue to honor Bob Marley’s message of love, unity, and empowerment, ensuring his legacy lives on for generations to come.

For tour dates and ticket information, visit MarleyBrothers.com.

Shaggy Revives Vintage Dancehall With New ‘Badman’ Riddim Project

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 22, 2024: Grammy-winning reggae singer Shaggy is taking fans on a nostalgic ride through vintage Dancehall with the release of three new singles from the highly anticipated “Badman” riddim project.

Produced by Shaggy and Shane Hoosong in collaboration with VP Records and Ranch Entertainment, the project offers a fresh take on the iconic 1980s “Gunman” riddim by legendary producer Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes. The first two singles, by Olaf Blackwood featuring Shaggy and Junior Cat, drop today, August 22nd.

Olaf Blackwood and Shaggy drop three singles from the Badman Riddim project.

The single, “Selector Pull It,” celebrates Dancehall’s lively party culture. The track captures the vibrant atmosphere of Dancehall events, urging DJs to keep the energy alive by replaying crowd favorites. The music video, directed by Jay Will, transports viewers to an authentic Dancehall party in Kingston, Jamaica, with cameos from icons like Bounty Killer, Gyptian, and DJ Boom Boom.

Shaggy, managed by Martin Kierszenbaum/Cherrytree Music Company, debuted the song during a live performance on On the Radar Radio in late July. Reflecting on the project, Olaf Blackwood said, “The ‘Gunman’ riddim was one of my go-tos for stage shows as a youngster. Co-writing this song with Shaggy and bringing it full circle has been an amazing experience.”

Shaggy shared his admiration for Junjo Lawes, saying, “His music was synonymous with the sound system movement of the ‘80s and ‘90s. I wanted to recreate that vibe while adding some new ideas.”

The second single, “Rude Bwoy Sumthin,” by Junior Cat, also drops on August 22. Known as “The Wild Indian,” Junior Cat is a veteran of the sound system scene. His track pays homage to the original gangster persona of Dancehall, delivering raw energy and vivid storytelling.

Fans can also look forward to the release of Spice’s track on September 12th, as well as additional songs from the “Badman” riddim series. This latest collaboration between VP Records and Ranch Entertainment follows the success of Shaggy’s 2023 soca-inspired EP, In The Mood.

The “Gunman” riddim, known for its heavy brass and unforgettable drum and bass, gained fame as the instrumental behind Michael Prophet’s hit “Gunman,” a defining track of early ‘80s Dancehall. With the “Badman” riddim series, Shaggy aims to blend nostalgia with a modern twist, inviting a new generation of Dancehall lovers to experience the energy and culture of that era. Like traditional “juggling” projects, the series will feature multiple artists interpreting the same instrumental in their unique styles.

Stay tuned for more details on the “Badman” riddim project as Shaggy continues to innovate and honor Dancehall’s rich legacy.

Legendary Guyana Singer Dave Martins Cremated

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Aug. 21, 2024: Legendary musician David Anthony Martins was funeralized Tuesday at a private funeral service at the Kaashi Dhaam Crematorium, Ruimzeight, West Coast Demerara (WCD), Guyana. His body was later cremated after being lauded by his wife Annette Arjoon and children Alex and Victoria Arjoon as an excellent husband and father.

Dave Martins wife is consoled by the President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali. (Newsroom Guyana image)

Annette spoke of the first time she met Dave 15 years ago and married after just one year. With tears, she said, “I was really blessed to have him in my life and to have 15 years of absolute joy and happiness and solitude and today he is in a good place surrounded by friends and family all of you I know love him dearly.”

Guyanese musician, Dave Martins, of Dave Martin and the Tradewinds fame, is dead at 90. (Facebook image/Dave Martins)

Alex and Victoria both shared that while Martins was known as a musician, he was a remarkable and incredible father figure. “His incredible wits, his humour and his love for my mom is something I would cherish forever,” Victoria said.

Also addressing those gathered at Tuesday’s solemn ceremony was Ret’d Major General Joseph Singh who shared a close relationship with Martins. He “has served his country with dignity, honour, with love as reflected in his over 300 songs that he produced,” Singh said.

He added that Martins was able to “reach across divides politicians dream to,” as he brought Guyanese together in a patriotic manner while fights for its sovereignty.

Culture, Youth and Sports Minister, Charles Ramson Jnr. in his remarks said it is difficult to ever say good bye to such an exceptional person. “He will never be forgotten. He must never be forgotten and his work and his love through you must also live on forever,” the minister noted.

The iconic artiste was lauded as an ‘Icon of Caribbean Identity’ by President Dr Irfaan Ali who noted that Martins’s legacy will continue to form connections with generations to come through his music, selfless contributions to the cultural sector and his ability to foster national unity.

“We know that this man is not a national asset, every single regional leader as young, as experienced and as young, they all are acquainted with Dave and they see him as a regional man, they value him as a regional man,” the President said in his sentiments expressed at the funeral.

The singer of the “anthem” ‘Not a Blade of Grass’ died on August 18th in Guyana, leaving a profound legacy of musical excellence and cultural contribution. The cause of death was not released publicly. He was 90.

Read more on Dave Martins HERE

A public memorial will be held at a later date his family announced.