Grammy-Nominated Jazz Maestro Dr. Monty Alexander To Bring “Spirit Of Jamaica” Music To Honolulu Following Release Of New Album – ‘D-Day’

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Friday May 3, 2024: Esteemed Jamaican-born jazz legend, Grammy-nominated, Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J., is set to bring the vibrant spirit of Jamaica’s music to the island of Honolulu just weeks before his 80th birthday, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings, known as D-Day.

Following the release of his latest musical masterpiece, the album ‘D-Day,’ on March 29th under the prestigious French record label PeeWee, Alexander will grace the stage at prestigious Blue Note Hawaii. The venue, located inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort at 2335 Kalakaua Ave., is renowned as Hawaii’s premier 326-seat live music destination.

The performance, scheduled for May 4th, promises an electrifying celebration of the album’s release ahead of Alexander’s milestone birthday. Joined by bassist Luke Sellick and drummer Jason Brown, two shows are scheduled at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

“I am very happy to celebrate my upcoming 80th in Hawaii at the Blue Note, where I will not only play selections from my brand new release, D-Day, but also play selections that reflect my beloved Jamaica where I was born, and where I have fond memories of participating in many recording sessions at Studio 1, as a music pioneer at the dawn of Ska when I was still a teenager,” commented Alexander. “Hope to see as many of my fans as possible – and of course, especially those who love the music of Jamaica.”

Tickets for the event are priced at $35-45, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the magic of Alexander’s legendary jazz expertise.

Fans can get tickets here by logging on now to https://www.bluenotejazz.com/hawaii/shows/?eid=13603273

MONTY’S OTHER UPCOMING LIVE PERFORMANCES & BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SHOWS

The release of ‘D-Day,’ will be accompanied by other tour dates to also mark Alexander’s birthday worldwide. They will include:

The Puerto Rico Jazz Festival in San Juan on May 17th.

The Bern Jazz Festival in Switzerland from May 21st to May 26th.

Birdland, New York City from May 28th to June 1st for his D-Day and 80th birthday celebration.

Jazz Alley, Seattle from June 6-9th.

The San Francisco Jazz Festival on June 11th.

Blue’s Alley, Washington, D.C. from June 14-16th.

Ronnie Scott’s London from June 24-28th.

New Morning, Domaine de Fontblanche in France on July 3rd and July 6th, respectively; and.

Victoria Hall, Switzerland on Nov. 25th.

See all performances and book advance tickets now at https://bnds.us/b8c6pc.

D’DAY’S FULL TRACK

The full track of the new album is as follows:

01 – Intro [0:16]

02 – I’ll Never Smile Again (R. Lowe) [04:18] 

03 – Aggression (M. Alexander) [06:03]

04 – Oh Why (M. Alexander) [06:37]

05 – Restoration (M. Alexander) [06:34] 

06 – June 6 (M. Alexander) [06:14]  

07 – River of Peace (M. Alexander) [05:49]

08 – Smile (C. Chaplin) [06:30]

09 – V.E. Swing (M. Alexander) [04:22]

10 – You Can See (M. Alexander) [05:33] 

11 – D-Day Voices (M. Alexander/L. Alexander) [04:28]

12 – Day-O (Trad.) [02:52

ABOUT ALEXANDER

Renowned for his extensive discography and hailed as one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time, Alexander’s contributions to music have earned him prestigious honors, including the Commander in the Order of Distinction and the Order of Jamaica. His unwavering passion for music, coupled with his Jamaican and Caribbean heritage, continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, on June 6, 1944, Alexander’s musical journey began at an early age. By 16, he was already proficient in various musical genres, including cha-cha, merengue, calypso, reggae, and ska. Moving to the United States at 17, he quickly gained recognition, accompanying jazz legends like Frank Sinatra, Milt Jackson, Dizzy Gillespie, and others. Today, Alexander remains an iconic figure in American jazz, blues, and gospel, infusing his music with the vibrant rhythms of his Jamaican and Caribbean heritage.

For more information, visit his YouTube channel or his official website at https://montyalexander.com/. You can also follow him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or stay updated on his performances through his Twitter handle, @montyHKE.

Luke Forbes Of Amazon Prime’s ‘Harlem’ And Denise Hunt Of ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’ To Head The Cast Of This Caribbean Drama

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NEWS AMERICAS, NY, NY, Thurs. May 2, 2024: Luke Forbes, known for his role in Amazon Prime’s hit comedy series ‘Harlem’, and Denise Hunt, acclaimed for her performance in the iconic film ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back,’ are set to lead the cast of the American Premiere Presentation of Alwin Bully’s Caribbean drama, ‘McBee.’

From left- David Heron as Tony Welsh, Tony Award nominee John Andrew Morrison as Claude Massop and Luke Forbes as Tek Life in the world premiere production of Marley The Musical. (Photo courtesy of David Heron)

The premiere will take place during Caribbean American Heritage Month, (CAHM), in the US, on Sunday, June 23rd, at The Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) at 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica Queens, starting at 7 p.m. The event will commence with a Caribbean Cuisine reception at 5:30 p.m.

This one-night-only staged reading production pays tribute to Alwin Bully, the late Dominica-born playwright, and is part of New York’s annual CAHM festivities.

Jamaican-born David Heron, a Broadway World Award winner, serves as the producer and director of the project.

Set on an unnamed Caribbean island in the recent past, ‘McBee’ follows the story of respected politicians Allan and Alice McBee. Upon encountering three mysterious Rastafarians who predict his rise to Prime Minister, Allan and his ambitious wife, Alice, embark on a path of power and deception, with consequences for themselves and their nation.

Forbes and Hunt will portray the pivotal roles of Allan and Alice McBee, bringing their extensive experience from stage, film, television, and Broadway to the production.

LUKE FORBES (Photo credit- Evan Kafka)

DENISE HUNT (Photo credit- David Mikesell)

Forbes, with Jamaican roots, currently stars as Michael in ‘Harlem’ and has appeared in various television series and the hit feature film ‘Dog’. On stage, he made his Broadway debut in Shakespeare’s ‘The Merchant Of Venice’ alongside Al Pacino.

Hunt, born in Jamaica, gained recognition for her role in ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’ and has an extensive stage career, including performances in award-winning productions like ‘Against His Will’ and ‘Dirty Diana.’

Producer-director Heron expressed his excitement about working with Forbes and Hunt again, citing their long-standing professional relationships and shared theatrical history.

“Luke and I met as actors in the world premiere production of  Kwame Kwei Armah’s Marley- The Musical at Baltimore Centerstage several years ago,” he says, “And we have been interested in collaborating on something else for awhile now. So I relish this opportunity to welcome him to McBee and to see him add yet another terrific performance to his resume,” he said. “Denise and I go back over twenty years since she appeared in my play Against His Will, and we toured together afterwards in Cheaters in the USA and in the UK touring production of  Love and Marriage and New York City. She had stepped away from acting for awhile but I’ve been trying to get her to come back. This titanic role is yet another step in that direction and will be a reminder to audiences of why we have all missed her so much.”

In a remarkable full circle moment, upon contacting Hunt regarding the role of Alice McBee, Heron learnt that she had in fact played Shakespeare’s Lady Macbeth- to excellent reviews-  as a teenager in a high school production of Macbeth for Jamaica’s National Schools Drama Festival in Kingston.

“I shook my head when I heard that, because I approached her for McBee without knowing that she had played the Lady M role in Shakespeare’s original play at her alma mater, Queens High School in Jamaica. This to me is a case of something that’s simply meant to be,” said Heron.

Additional casting for ‘McBee’ will be announced soon, with tickets available starting tomorrow, Friday, May 3, at mcbeetheplay.eventbrite.com.

Beres Hammond Drops New Single

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. May 1, 2024: Beres Hammond, the legendary Godfather of Lover’s Rock from Jamaica, has released his latest single, “Let Me Help You,” offering solace and support to a woman facing life’s challenges. The song, a re-recorded version of his 1988 classic, showcases Beres’s signature smoky-sweet vocals synonymous with Lover’s Rock.

Beres Hammond has released a new inspirational single.

“Let me help you smile again,” Hammond croons.

To mark the release, Spotify’s new music Friday feature will spotlight Beres’s single with billboard placements at iconic locations like Toronto’s Yonge-Dundas Square and New York’s Times Square.

In addition to the new single, Beres is gearing up for his ‘Forever Giving Thanks’ tour across the USA and Canada in July and August 2024. The tour will feature performances of his timeless hits along with a few new tracks. Stops on the tour include the 27th Edition of the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival in Boonville, California on June 21st-23rd, 2024, and a headlining slot at Reggae Sumfest on July 20th, 2024, with more dates to follow.

In April, Beres hosted the annual Love and Harmony Cruise, where he announced the release of “Let Me Help You” on May 3rd across all digital service platforms.

LISTEN HERE

Nigy Boy Set To Shine Alongside Burna Boy In Guyana Tomorrow

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News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Tues. April 30, 2024: Jamaican-born, US-based rising star, Nigy Boy, is set to shine alongside Grammy-winning singer Burna Boy tomorrow in the South American CARICOM nation of Guyana.

With the gig titled “Unforgettable,” the two will perform on May 1, Labour Day, at Guyana’s National Stadium at the National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Nigy Boy’s manager, Chris Crooks, emphasized the significance of this moment, citing it as the artist’s most significant performance to date. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share the stage with Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer Burna Boy, Nigy Boy, who is visually impaired, views this collaboration as a chance to further promote Jamaican music and culture on a global scale.

Following his successful debut in Guyana during the Mashramani festival, where he performed before a massive crowd, Nigy Boy is excited to return for another unforgettable experience.

Nigy Boy performing in Guyana on Feb. 23, 2024.

Nigy Boy’s recent successes, including his hit single “Continent” and the premiere of his second single/video “Judgement” on New York’s PIX TV, underscore his rising prominence in the music industry. Reflecting on his achievements, Nigy Boy attributes his success to remaining authentic and delivering his best to his audience.

Burna Boy performing onstage during his “I Told Them…” tour at State Farm Arena on March 09, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Burna Boy continues to soar in his career, recently claiming the Best African Music Act award at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards. Born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, he first gained public recognition in 2012 after releasing his hit single Like to Party, which became the lead single of his debut album, L.I.F.E. His other popular songs include Last Last, Tonight and Run My Race.

Burna Boy is one of the most successful Nigerian musicians of all time. With his fusion of Dancehall, Reggae, Afrobeat, and Pop, he has won numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy Award in 2021. He is currently signed to an American record label called Atlantic Records. He is also the founder and CEO of Spaceship Records, a Nigerian-based record label. The popular singer was born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria and describes his music as Afro-fusion, which blends the genres of R&B, hip-hop, dancehall, and reggae.

Unforgettable is being hosted via collaboration between ENet, Hits and Jams Entertainment, and One Guyana. Hits and Jams in a statement said that “Super early bird tickets” are out and available at all ENet locations countrywide and at the Hits and Jams box office. For general admission the price is $6000 while VIP is set at $40,000 (US$200).

TerraPay and VM Money Transfer Services have Partnered to Expand the Remittance Market for Jamaicans

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KINGSTON, Jamaica, April 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In its continued thrust to improve financial inclusion and expand remittance services to Jamaicans across the world, VM Money Transfer Services (VMTS) has entered a strategic partnership with TerraPay, a global money movement organization.

VMTS facilitates money transfer services globally to customers sending money to Jamaica from Europe, the UK, United States, Canada, the Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos. With this new agreement, VMTS now gains access to TerraPay’s robust online platform, enabling hassle-free cross-border transfers for customers sending and receiving money across approximately 31 markets globally.

CEO of VM Money Transfer Services Limited, Michael Howard, welcomes the boost that this partnership will bring to the agency’s operations. He shared, “Purposeful partnership is an integral part of VM Money Transfer’s mission as we seek to continuously improve service delivery to our clients. We are excited about this recent collaboration as, with TerraPay’s extensive network, we have the opportunity to significantly broaden our reach and potentially tap into new markets, all while keeping our clients supported and empowered with convenient and secure channels for their money transfer needs.”

The agreement was signed between the two entities in March 2024, and Juan Luis Hernandez, TerraPay’s Senior Regional Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean, who visited Jamaica for the occasion, shares the enthusiasm. Hernandez commented, “We are delighted to partner with VM Money Transfer Services to drive innovation and efficiency in cross-border remittances. Together, we aim to provide a superior remittance experience for Jamaicans worldwide, strengthening connections with their loved ones and contributing to the economic development of Jamaica.”

Along with the expanded service through TerraPay, VMTS customers can continue to enjoy the flexibility and convenience of having their funds deposited directly to their Jamaican bank account through VMTS’ Direct to Bank Service. Clients can also collect their remittances in Jamaica from VM Money Transfer’s over 70 sub-agents, 8 VM Money Express locations and 16 VM Building Society branches Islandwide.

For queries, please reach out to Juveria Samrin at ju*******@te******.com

About TerraPay:

TerraPay simplifies global money movement – by providing a single connection to the most expansive cross-border payments network regulated in 31 global markets and enabling payments to 144 receive countries, 210+ send countries, 7.5Bn+ bank accounts and 2.1Bn+ mobile wallets. TerraPay is on a mission to connect a borderless financial world, making moving money everywhere instant, reliable, transparent and fully compliant. TerraPay pushes the boundaries for global businesses – ranging from banks, fintechs and money-transfer operators to travel businesses, creator economy platforms and e-commerce marketplaces – while driving financial inclusion in even the most inaccessible markets. Founded in 2014, TerraPay is headquartered in London, with global offices in Bangalore, Dubai, Miami, Bogota, Dar es Salaam, Kampala, Hague, Dakar, Joburg, Nairobi, Milan, Singapore and is expanding rapidly, having received funding from leading investors, including the IFC (the World Bank), Prime Ventures, Partech Africa and Visa. 

New Provisional Government Sworn In Amidst Turmoil in Haiti

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Photo courtesy of David Heron.)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Call Him ICC Cricket Ambassador Bolt

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

Call him ICC Cricket Ambassador Bolt!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guyana President Among Caribbean Leaders Honored At American Foundation For The University Of The West Indies Event

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. April 24, 2024: The President of Guyana, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, was among six honorees at the recent American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) fundraising gala, held on April 18th in New York City.

Guyana President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, second from left, receives the AFUWI Legacy Award from UWI Vice Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles, second from right and Guyana born actress CCH Pounder, r.

Ali was presented with the Legacy Award by Guyana-born actress, CCH Pounder of  NCIS New Orleans fame.  In accepting the award, the President announced that a University of the West Indies Medical School will be built in Guyana.

He also reflected on the profound impact of colonization on the region and reiterated the imperative need for reparatory justice and praised the University of the West Indies and Vice Chancellor Sir Hillary Beckles, for its efforts in advancing this cause.

President Ali also emphasized the significance of investing in and leveraging indigenous resources as pivotal for fostering collective development amidst the region’s ongoing healing journey from colonial legacies. Underscoring Guyana’s commitment to regional and global obligations, the President, who is also the current chairman of CARICOM, the Caribbean Community, stressed that the nation’s prosperity is intertwined with that of the wider Caribbean.

The 27th annual legacy gala raises funds in the US Diaspora to open doors for Caribbean students from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue the dream of higher education.

The other honorees were:

Don Christian, a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, who received the Caribbean Luminary Award;

Antony Mark Desnoes Hart, the executive chairman of Caribbean Producers Jamaica Ltd., who was presented with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Business Leadership and Community Engagement;

Attorney Darren Skinner, the Jamaican born partner and co-general counsel of the Washington, D.C. office of Arnold & Porter, who received the Pinnacle Award;

Michele Chow-Tai, the managing director of Business Development at Fairview Capital Partners, who was presented in absentia with the Vice Chancelleor’s Achievement Award, and;

Rev. Patrick Perrin, who from Jamaica to New York, has dedicated most of his life to guiding his congregation and youth, received the Pelican Award.