Formidable South Africa Squad To Face West Indies A Team

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 9, 2023: A formidable 15-man South Africa ‘A’ squad has been unveiled to take on West Indies ‘A’ in a three-match four-day series set to commence later this month. This impressive lineup comprises seven Test players and eight newcomers to the ‘A’ squad.

The squad features Test players such as batsmen Keegan Petersen, Tony de Zorzi, and Zubayr Hamza, alongside fast bowlers Duanne Olivier, Dane Patterson, Hardus Viljoen, and off-spinner Dane Piedt. Neil Brand, an experienced left-arm spinning all-rounder who is yet to make his Test debut, will lead this talented group.

In a significant development, newcomers like David Bedingham, rising batting sensation Ruan de Swardt, experienced wicketkeeper Clyde Fortuin, and promising fast-bowling all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana have earned their first call-ups to the ‘A’ squad.

Shukri Conrad, Proteas red-ball coach, highlighted the importance of this tour, emphasizing its role in preparing for the upcoming international season and building depth in the red-ball pipeline. The squad was carefully chosen with an eye on the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand.

Neil Brand’s appointment as captain is based on his resilience and toughness, attributes highly valued by the team. The selectors believe he has much to offer beyond his role as an opening batter and anticipate his impact at this level.

The West Indies ‘A’ squad for the tour, scheduled to run from November 21 to December 8, is yet to be announced. The matches will be held at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, Buffalo Park in East London, and Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein.

SQUAD:

Neil Brand (captain)
David Bedingham
Ruan de Swardt
Tony de Zorzi
Clyde Fortuin
Zubayr Hamza
Tshepo Moreki
Mihlali Mpongwana
Duanne Olivier
Dane Patterson
Keegan Petersen
Dane Piedt
Raynard van Tonder
Hardus Viljoen
Khaya Zondo

Jamaica Achieves Financial Milestone With Inaugural Jamaican Dollar Linked International Bond

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 9, 2023: The Jamaican government has achieved a significant financial milestone by issuing its first-ever Jamaican Dollar (J$) linked international bond, totaling J$46.6 billion or US$300 million. The bond, issued on November 3, was oversubscribed 1.4 times and consists of Senior Unsecured Notes due in 2030, registered with the United States-based Securities Exchange Commission, (SEC).

This groundbreaking operation marks the Government of Jamaica’s inaugural J$-linked transaction in international capital markets and aligns with the GOJ’s objective to open local currency debt issues to international investors. The move aims to reduce the GOJ’s exposure to USD-denominated debt, as both interest and principal payments are linked to the value of the Jamaican dollar.

However, it’s essential to note that while the bond is denominated in J$, debt service payments to bondholders will be in US$, determined by the average of the prevailing J$ exchange rate over the ten business days before each payment date. This arrangement means that international investors in this bond assume Jamaican Dollar exchange rate risk.

The bond issuance represents the second phase of a liability management operation, with the proceeds from this Jamaican dollar-linked bond being used to repurchase outstanding US$-denominated bonds.

Moody’s, the international credit rating agency, published an Issuer’s Comment, stating that the use of the J$ linked Bond issuance proceeds to buy back outstanding USD-denominated bonds will reduce “the government’s exposure to foreign-exchange risk, which is a credit positive.” Over time, this reduction in exchange-rate risk is expected to address one of the sovereign’s key credit challenges.

In the initial phase of the transaction, Jamaica invited offers to tender for cash, targeting its 7.625 per cent Notes due 2025, 9.250 per cent Notes due 2025, and 6.750 per cent Notes due 2028. This offering achieved several significant milestones, marking the first J$-linked transaction by the Jamaican government and demonstrating the success of local currency deals in international markets.

International investor participation in the J$ link bond reached 93.5 percent, with 6.5 percent coming from domestic investors. This represents the highest participation rate by international investors in a local currency issue in 2023 globally. The bond is also noted for having the lowest coupon and yield for a local currency-linked global bond transaction in 2023 to date, marking Jamaica’s first return to the international capital markets since 2019.

Dr. Nigel Clarke, Jamaica’s Finance and Public Service Minister, led a Jamaican delegation on an investor road show in London and New York related to the bond issuance. He emphasized the transaction’s significance in opening new possibilities and frontiers for Jamaica, highlighting the country’s improved macroeconomic fundamentals and monetary policy transparency.

Dr. Clarke stated that tapping international investors for local currency-linked debt enhances Jamaica’s funding sources, broadens financial diversity, and paves the way for more international issues in the future. The government’s ability to alter the currency mix of the national debt is expected to strengthen the country’s resilience and financial stability.

This landmark development represents a substantial policy dividend resulting from Jamaica’s economic progress and commitment to monetary policy transparency, central bank independence, and low, stable, and predictable inflation as a monetary policy objective.

Jamaica’s inaugural J$-linked international bond marks a significant step towards financial independence and economic growth, offering new opportunities and strengthening the country’s position in the international financial market.

Jah Cure and Don Corleon Reunite On “One More Time”

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 9, 2023: Reggae star Jah Cure is set to share his latest single, “One More Time” remixed by longtime collaborator and veteran in the music, Donovan “Don Corleon” Bennett. The track comes from a creative partnership that has, over the years, produced hits like “What Will It Take” and “Longing For.” It will be out on November 16th via VP Records.

The original “One More Time,” which was featured on Jah Cure’s latest album, Undeniable, and produced by Hamed “K-One” Pirzoupanah, emerged as a standout track among fans. Neil “Diamond” Edwards, the decades-long A&R for Jah Cure, then approached Don Corleon to reimagine the song.

Neil Diamond said, “My aim and goal was to find something for the DJs and fans who have supported Jah Cure over the years. So who better to give the remix a dancehall feel than Don Corleon, who produced two of Cure’s biggest records? It’s a perfect storm.”

“Having a Don Corleon and Jah Cure collaboration is the best way to bring this project back home.”

“One More Time (Remix)” is the third single from Undeniable, following “Everything” with Stonebwoy and “Undeniable” featuring Kaylan Arnold.

The song will be available on all digital platforms on November 16th.

Caribbean Travel News & Deals

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 9, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Canada is warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica due to violent crimes there.

Princess Beatrix of The Netherlands was in Willemstad, Curacao and Aruba this week for a visit. The focus of this visit is on nature and social initiatives.

Makers Air has announced new twice-weekly nonstop flights to Long Island in The Bahamas, a destination known for its breathtaking cliffs and ecological wonders, including Dean’s Blue Hole and Hamilton’s Cave. Beginning 14 December 2023, service will operate between Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) and Stella Maris Airport (SML), every Thursday and Sunday.

Regal Princess, the largest Princess cruise ship ever based in Texas, has dropped anchor in Houston’s coastal neighbor, ready for its inaugural season of voyages to the Western Caribbean. The massive, 142,229-ton “Love Boat” ship can host 3,560 guests across its 19 decks and over 1,400 stateroom balconies. During its first travel season from Galveston, now through March 2024, the Regal Princess will take 21 voyages to the Caribbean.

The Cayman Islands is now the top trending destination globally according to Skyscanner, which examined user travel searches over the course of a year.

Another major United States airline has launched direct weekly flights to Jamaica. United Airlines had its first direct from Denver, Colorado in the United States to the Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, Jamaica last weekend. The flight will now arrive at SIA every Saturday.

Atlantis Paradise Island celebrates National Singles Day on November 11th with a special 24-hour bookable offer. The “Singles Day” Package starts at $1,111 for two and includes discounted stays at The Coral, The Royal, The Reef and The Cove for select travel dates in 2024.

Visitors Can Travel from Nassau to the Out Islands for Free — U.S. and Canadian residents can take advantage of a limited-time offer to explore the Out Islands at a discount. Pre-booked hotel stays of four nights or longer at participating Out Island properties can earn up to two free airline or Bahamas Ferries tickets from Nassau. The booking window is now through November 13, for travel until 30 April 2024.

Enjoy 20% Off Goldwynn Resort & Residences Bookings. Travelers who book their stay at Goldwynn Resort & Residences, Nassau’s newest luxury oceanfront resort, by November 30, will receive 20% off their stay. This exclusive, limited-time offering is a wonderful way to experience the tranquil, private location and pristine amenities of the 81-room resort that debuted on Cable Beach earlier this year.

Guyanese Roots Canadian Hip Hop Star For Induction Into The Canadian Music Hall Of Fame

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By NAN ET Writer

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Nov. 7, 2023: Guyanese-roots, Canadian Hip Hop Icon, Maestro Fresh Wes, born Wes Williams, will become the first Hip Hop artist to be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame. 

The festivities take place in Halifax, NS during JUNO week, March 20-24th, 2024. The Canadian Music Hall of Fame was established in 1978 by the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences to honor Canadian musicians for their lifetime achievements in music.  Maestro will also perform at this years Junos. 

Maestro Fresh Wes and Drake

“I am honored to create my first scholarship at this awesome campus. It is my goal to have more black youth interested in trades and be involved in career paths such as welding, carpentry, plumbing etc.”  A sentiment of many, as scholarship applicants have already begun. There is not a shortage of rappers, but there is a shortage of black youth involved in learning trades,” Maestro commented.  

Maestro has always felt that his role is to give back for the success he has been blessed with.  In 2016 the NSCC (NOVA SCOTIA COMMUNITY COLLEGES) presented Maestro with an honorary diploma based on his positive impact on the community.  

His first book, ‘STICK TO YOUR VISION,’ (2010), was mandatory reading for 10th grade students in the province.  The Wes Williams Projectat the Akerley Campus has also inspired several adult students.  Realizing the impact he could have, encouraged the artist/ author and mentor to initiate the MAESTRO FRESH WES SCHOLARSHIP for black youth enrolled in NSCC Akerley Campus in Dartmouth NS.

 “I am honored to create my first scholarship at this awesome campus. It is my goal to have more black youth interested in trades and be involved in career paths such as welding, carpentry, plumbing etc. A sentiment of many, as scholarship applicants have already begun. There is not a shortage of rappers, but there is a shortage of black youth involved in learning trades,” commented Maestro. 

Maestro continues to mentor youth with his third children’s album “Maestro Fresh Wes Presents STICK TO YOUR VISION “FOR YOUNG ATHLETES” available now on all platforms.  The album produced by Dub J, Warren Williams, Black Orchid and Surgeon and The Butcher featuring artists, JD Era, Roger Mooking, Rochester AKA Juice , JRDN, Keysha Freshh, Charmaine  and introducing 11-year-old Shavonne Washington.  Recorded in Saint John NB with Stephen Hero & Paul Milner, mixed in Toronto by Secret Suburbia. 

Listen to Maestro Fresh Wes Presents ‘STICK TO YOUR VISION – FOR YOUNG ATHLETES“ HERE

Reggae Girlz’ Eligibility for Upcoming FIFA Window Remains Uncertain

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 3, 2023: With just over three weeks remaining before the next FIFA window, during which Jamaica will face Guatemala and Panama in return fixtures of the CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup qualifiers, the eligibility of members from the FIFA World Cup squad for selection remains uncertain.

These players had previously made themselves unavailable for the window, which resulted in Jamaica’s 2-1 loss to Panama followed by a 2-2 draw with Guatemala at home. Xavier Gilbert has now been confirmed as the interim head coach of Jamaica’s senior women’s football team for two additional CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifying games.

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), the governing body for the sport in the country, made this announcement on Tuesday.

Gilbert will be in charge when Jamaica hosts Group B leaders Panama on November 29 and when the Reggae Girls travel to Guatemala for their return game on December 3. In the previous matches, Jamaica experienced a 1-2 defeat to Panama in the first leg of their home-and-away fixture, followed by a 2-2 draw with Guatemala.

In a statement, the JFF praised Gilbert and the Senior Reggae Girlz for their recent performances against Panama and Guatemala, expressing gratitude for their dedication to representing Jamaica and the JFF with outstanding performances.

Capleton To Return to the UK After 13 Years

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 3, 2023: Renowned Rastafarian reggae sensation, Capleton, is set to make a triumphant return to the United Kingdom after a hiatus of 13 years, as he recently secured a work permit for his upcoming performance in the country.

This landmark achievement is attributed to the relentless efforts of Cabel Stephenson and Tameka Reynolds, the visionaries behind Free People Entertainment, who have paved the way for Capleton’s resurgence in the lucrative UK market, the Jamaica Gleaner Reported.

Cabel Stephenson, the head of Free People Entertainment, shared insights into the challenging journey that led to Capleton’s long-awaited return. He emphasized Capleton’s exceptional qualities as an artist, humanitarian, and a compassionate human being. Despite facing objections, they overcame the obstacles, focusing on Capleton’s loving and humanitarian nature. His philanthropic contributions to his community, particularly to the less fortunate and indigent, set him apart as a community leader who doesn’t discriminate against anyone based on their orientation.

Capleton has exciting plans for his UK return, including a special guest appearance scheduled for December 2023 and a spring tour throughout the UK in 2024. His current international tour, organized by Free People Entertainment and Mediacom, features upcoming performances in France and various European destinations, capturing the authentic vibe and energy that European audiences cherish.

The artist is also gearing up to release his first studio album in over a decade, a project expected to rejuvenate his local fanbase and reaffirm his status as a reggae icon.

Petronas Makes Significant Oil Discovery off the Coast of Suriname

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News Americas, PARAMARIBO, Suriname, Fri. Nov. 3, 2023: The Malaysian oil company Petronas, through its subsidiary Petronas Suriname E&P, has announced a significant oil discovery in Suriname’s Block 52. The discovery was made at the Roystonea-1 exploration well and marks Petronas’ second successful find in Block 52, with the first discovery at Sloanea-1 in 2020. This positive development was also confirmed by Suriname’s national oil company, Staatsolie.

The Roystonea-1 well, situated approximately 185 kilometers offshore in water depths of 904 meters, was successfully drilled to a total depth of 5,315 meters and encountered multiple oil-bearing sandstone reservoir packages. Further evaluations are underway to determine the full extent of this discovery and explore its potential development synergy with the previous Sloanea-1 discovery made within the same block in 2020.

Datuk Adif Zulkifli, Petronas’ Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Upstream, expressed optimism about the Roystonea-1 discovery, emphasizing its alignment with Petronas’ international upstream ventures and its focus on a substantial discovery with minimal contaminants.

Mohd Redhani Abdul Rahman, Vice President of Exploration, highlighted that the success of Roystonea-1 is expected to drive further exploration for commercially viable hydrocarbon resources in the surrounding areas. Petronas plans to collaborate closely with the host authority, Staatsolie, and its partners to unlock Suriname’s hydrocarbon potential, ensuring safe and successful future exploration programs.

Block 52, covering an area of 4,749 square kilometers, is located north of the coast of Paramaribo, Suriname’s capital city, within the prospective Suriname-Guyana basin. Petronas Suriname E&P serves as the operator of Block 52, holding a 50 percent participating interest. The company also operates Block 48 with 100 percent participating interest and has a 30 percent non-operating participating interest in the adjacent Block 53, where the Baja-1 oil discovery was made in 2022.

This oil discovery underscores Petronas’ commitment to the development of oil resources offshore Suriname. TotalEnergies and Apache Corporation are among the other international oil companies also pursuing major oil development projects in Suriname, with substantial recoverable oil reserves estimated in Block 58.

The successful development of offshore oil production is considered a crucial step in lifting Suriname out of its economic challenges. The country is currently implementing an economic recovery plan with the support of the International Monetary Fund, and offshore oil is seen as a vital component of this recovery effort.

Caribbean Travel News & Deals

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 3, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

The Canadian government is again warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime there. Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, the advisory says.

Virgin Atlantic is gearing up to enhance its flight services to Barbados this winter. A milestone will be reached with the introduction of double daily flights from London Heathrow to Barbados. This new schedule, set to commence on January 8, 2024, will bolster connectivity and offer travelers more flexible options.

Space-lovers and fans of history, Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled a new exhibit at the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, that celebrates the historic visit to space by Antigua and Barbuda’s Keisha Schahaff and Anastasia Mayers on August 10, 2023.

The “Antigua and Barbuda Goes to Space” exhibit, is a collaboration between the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, and the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda.   As of November 2, 2023, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda’s opening hours will be Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. To learn more about the museum of Antigua and Barbuda go to: antiguamuseums.net.

Now you can fly non-stop from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) in Missouri to Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ) on Southwest Airlines. Flights began on October 7 and is scheduled to operate weekly on Saturdays.

Get ready for an early Black Friday deal this week. Guests booking their stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau in The Bahamas can now enjoy a 30% discount on room rates – valid for stays between December 1, 2023, and December 21, 2024. Book from November 24 through November 30 by visiting the Margaritaville Booking Page or calling +1 855-410-2331.

Blue Diamond Resorts Takes Its Second Hotel Into the Metaverse

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News Americas, MIAMI, FL, Thurs., Nov. 02, 2023: Blue Diamond Resorts proudly announces its latest innovation in the virtual reality universe with the introduction of immersive 3D scenarios for their newest property, Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort. This pioneering technology marks the second property of the hotel management company to be completely mapped, offering 360º virtual tours with an easy-to-use interface.

The introduction of this cutting-edge functionality invites both travelers and professionals involved in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) to delve into the resort’s detailed features. It offers an insider’s perspective on every nook and cranny, showcasing all the services tailored to meet the diverse needs of their guests. This immersive tool goes beyond enhancing the experience for travelers; it becomes an invaluable resource for MICE planners, providing a comprehensive view of all the venues ideally suited for events. Whether vacationers are planning a leisure trip or a business gathering, this experience empowers them to make informed decisions by immersing themselves in the resort’s ambiance before confirming their reservations.

“With the rising popularity of virtual experiences, we’re always finding new and refreshing ways to help travelers explore our properties and get a better idea of what they look like,” said Alejandro Rodriguez del Peon, Director of Marketing & PR for Blue Diamond Resorts. “Last year, we introduced this virtual tourism tool at our Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts in Cancun, which was the first in our portfolio to offer this experience. It proved irresistible to travelers and solidified our position as a pioneer in the all-inclusive segment.”

The resort’s website now features a captivating Virtual Tour option seamlessly integrated into the “Our Resort” section. This tour covers the entire property, from the expansive lobby and the exclusive Diamond Club lounge to the inviting pools, lazy rivers, and water park. Travelers can also virtually enter the resort to explore its modern rooms in various categories, restaurants, the GameUp Entertainment Center, Royalton FIT and spa facilities, as well as the convention center and its unique spaces for group events and luxury weddings.

3D renderings of Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun provide vacationers with an authentic feel for each vacation venue. The interactive features allow guests to experience their vacation before they even arrive. Whether travelers are seeking a family, romantic, or friends getaway, they will have access to all the amenities that await them at the resort, from relaxing in The Royal Spa to savoring delicious meals at the à la carte restaurants. For business travelers, there is a comprehensive walkthrough of the Meeting & Event spaces, featuring 25,000 square feet, including a ballroom and 12 breakout rooms that can be customized according to customer needs.

Blue Diamond Resorts continues to push the boundaries of technology, going beyond the traditional to showcase their modern and unique venues. The all-inclusive metaverse is now accessible at royaltonresorts.com

About Blue Diamond Resorts  

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 60 properties, exceeding 18,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee.  To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene  where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.  

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com