Caribcast

06/12/2026

Reggae pioneer Stranger Cole has passed away on Thursday, June 11. He was 83.

Cole’s death marks the end of one of the longest and most influential careers in Jamaican popular music, a journey that stretched from the birth of ska in the early 1960s to reggae’s global expansion and beyond. Stranger Cole, Pioneer Of Jamaican Music And Voice Behind ‘Bangarang,’ Is Dead At 83 https://www.dancehallmag.com/2026/06/12/news/stranger-cole-pioneer-of-jamaican-music-and-voice-behind-bangarang-is-dead-at-83.html

06/12/2026

Recording artist Vybrid is preparing to unveil the official visualizer for his single, Outlet, on June 17; delivering a powerful message centered on mental health, self-love, and resilience. Vybrid Tackles Mental Health With “Outlet”, Visualizer Set For June 17 Release https://www.dancehallmag.com/2026/06/12/news/vybrid-tackles-mental-health-with-outlet-visualizer-set-for-june-17-release.html

06/12/2026

Music producer Prod.LoudSpeakr is preparing to release his highly anticipated 1876 Riddimcompilation on June 26, a project that brings together a diverse cast of emerging artistes from Jamaica and beyond. 1876 Riddim Compilation To Feature Multiple Artists https://www.dancehallmag.com/2026/06/12/news/1876-riddim-compilation-to-feature-multiple-artists.html

06/12/2026

Trinidad and Tobago’s beloved trickster spider is once again spinning a web across the nation as the Season of Anansi National Folklore Festival returns for its fourth edition, continuing a decade-long mission to transform local folklore into a dynamic force for education, performance and cultural innovation. Produced by the Wire Bend Folklore Theatre, the festival has become […] Season of Anansi Returns, Bringing Folklore, Afro-Futurism and Epic Storytelling to a New Generation.

Trinidad and Tobago’s beloved trickster spider is once again spinning a web across the nation as the Season of Anansi National Folklore Festival returns for its fourth edition, continuing a decade-long mission to transform local folklore into a dynamic force for education, performance and cultural...

06/12/2026

Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes (Easy Oven Recipe) https://www.caribbeangreenliving.com/roasted-purple-sweet-potatoes/ If you’ve never tried roasted purple sweet potatoes before, you’re in for a treat. Their deep purple color is beautiful enough to brighten any plate, but it’s their naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture that keep me coming back to them again and again. I love cooking with root vegetables, and purple sweet potatoes are...

Learn how to make roasted purple sweet potatoes with this easy oven recipe. Tender, naturally sweet, and packed with color, they're the perfect side dish for any meal.

06/12/2026

Florida House District 108: Endorsements for Dinah Escarment https://sflcn.com/florida-house-district-108-endorsements-for-dinah-escarment/ MIAMI — Democratic candidate Dinah J. Escarment has qualified for the ballot in Florida House District 108. This marks a key milestone for a campaign backed by Leaders We Deserve, the SEIU Florida State Council and Ruth’s List Florida.
The endorsement from Leaders We Deserve, the national organization co-founded by Democratic National Committee Vice Chair David Hogg, is a first for both a Miami candidate and a Haitian candidate, according to the campaign. Furthermore, the backing signals growing recognition of Escarment’s leadership, community advocacy and focus on working families.
Escarment, a lifelong Miami resident, mother, educator, small-business owner and community advocate, said her campaign will focus on expanding economic opportunity, strengthening public education, increasing access to affordable housing and health care. She will also be supporting small businesses across District 108.

Dinah Escarment
“Qualifying for the ballot is an important milestone, but this campaign has always been about the people of District 108,” Escarment said.
“I am honored by the trust and support of community members and organizations that believe in a future where every family can thrive. Together, we are building a campaign grounded in inclusion, accountability and opportunity.”
“This endorsement is more than support for a campaign; it reflects the belief that diverse voices and new leaders belong at every level of government,” Escarment said.
“As a Haitian American woman, mother, educator, small-business owner and community advocate, I understand the daily challenges many families face. I am running to ensure those voices are heard and represented in Tallahassee.”
SEIU Florida State Council Endorsement
The SEIU Florida State Council, which represents more than 60,000 active and retired members statewide, said its endorsement reflects Escarment’s commitment to working families, economic justice and worker protections.
“We believe you share a common vision for Florida, one in which racial justice and the right to join a union are central to working families’ economic security, rights and legacy for the next generation,” Martha Baker, RN, president of the SEIU Florida State Council, wrote in the organization’s endorsement letter.
Ruth’s List Florida Endorsement
Escarment also has been endorsed by Ruth’s List Florida, the state’s leading organization focused on recruiting, training and electing Democratic women leaders.
“Across the state, women are stepping up to lead because they know exactly what’s at stake,” said Christina Diamond, CEO of Ruth’s List Florida. “The candidates on this slate offer proven experience and the community-focused leadership Floridians deserve.”
Leadership and Community Service
Escarment has built a long record of leadership and service in South Florida, advocating for educational equity, civic engagement, economic empowerment and community development. Her work spans public education, grassroots organizing, business leadership and nonprofit service.
Escarment serves as chairwoman of Florida Rising in Miami-Dade County, vice president of the Miami-Dade Democratic Haitian Caucus and an elected Democratic Executive Committee state committeewoman. In addition, she is a board member of the Haitian National Teachers Association and a member of the Association of Haitian Educators of Dade County.
She is the owner and CEO of All Florida Realty & Taxes Services, doing business as Escarment Multiservices, and previously spent six years as an educator in Broward and Orange county public schools.
Her civic work includes involvement with the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce of Florida and the National Association for the Advancement of Haitian Professionals. She also works with chambers of commerce in Miami Shores and North Miami.
In 2024, she organized the Haitian Solidarity Rally at North Miami City Hall, bringing together residents, elected officials, faith leaders and community advocates. The event promoted unity, civic engagement and inclusion.
Escarment said her campaign will continue to center the everyday concerns of District 108 residents.
“Our district’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths,” Escarment said. “Every family deserves access to quality schools, affordable housing, health care, economic opportunity and safe communities. I am committed to ensuring every resident has a voice in Tallahassee and that no community is left behind.”
With ballot qualification secured and support from local, statewide and national organizations growing, Escarment’s campaign said it is building a broad coalition. This coalition is focused on delivering results for residents of Florida House District 108.
For more information about Dinah Escarment’s campaign for Florida House District 108, visit www.dinahescarment.com. You can also follow...

06/12/2026

WTC Georgetown To Host Luncheon on U.S. Trade Policy for Guyanese Businesses https://sflcn.com/wtc-georgetown-to-host-luncheon-on-u-s-trade-policy-for-guyanese-businesses/ GEORGETOWN, Guyana — The World Trade Centre Georgetown will host a business luncheon June 17. It is aimed at helping Guyanese companies better understand and pursue commercial opportunities in the United States.
The luncheon, “Growing Business with the United States,” will feature Arun Venkataraman. He is a former senior U.S. commerce official and internationally recognized trade expert.
Venkataraman, who has more than two decades of experience in international trade, commerce and economic policy, served from 2022 to 2025 as assistant secretary of commerce for global markets. He was also director general of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service at the International Trade Administration.
In that role, he led U.S. government efforts to expand commercial opportunities for American companies overseas. He also worked for foreign companies seeking to invest and do business in the United States. His work included facilitating international business transactions and improving commercial policy environments. In addition, he addressed barriers to trade and investment and negotiated agreements with foreign governments.
U.S. Trade and Commercial Policy
Photo courtesy: Depositphotos.com
During the luncheon, Venkataraman is expected to discuss U.S. trade and commercial policy, available trade preferences and other mechanisms that can support business engagement with the U.S. market. The presentation will focus on how Guyanese companies can increase exports, develop strategic partnerships, attract investment and strengthen their competitiveness.
The event comes as businesses navigate shifting supply chains, evolving geopolitical conditions and changing trade and investment policies among major economies. U.S. decisions on tariffs, market access and commercial partnerships continue to influence global business strategies. These decisions also influence the competitiveness of exporters worldwide.
For Guyana, those shifts have heightened the need for businesses to monitor U.S. trade policy and prepare for changes affecting market access. Recent changes to U.S. tariff policies affecting some exports from Guyana and other countries have created new challenges. These challenges impact companies seeking to maintain or expand their presence in the U.S. market.
WTCG said the luncheon will give participants timely access to practical guidance from a former U.S. trade policymaker. This comes at a moment when Guyanese firms are seeking to strengthen international partnerships and identify new avenues for growth.
The session is designed for exporters, manufacturers, service providers, investors, business support organizations, and entrepreneurs. It is for those looking to expand beyond Guyana’s borders.
Participants will have an opportunity to engage with Venkataraman during a question-and-answer session. Moreover, they can join more focused private discussions after the formal presentation.
Mission: Connectong Guyanese Businesses to Global Markets
WTCG said the luncheon aligns with its mission to connect Guyanese businesses to global markets and create opportunities for international engagement. The organization is part of the World Trade Centers Association network. This network includes more than 300 World Trade Centers in more than 100 countries.
Members of the business community and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to attend.
For registration and more information, contact the World Trade Centre Georgetown Secretariat at 592-763-9824 or 592-515-9824 and ask for Ms. Noel or Ms. Peters.

The post WTC Georgetown To Host Luncheon on U.S. Trade Policy for Guyanese Businesses appeared first on South Florida Caribbean News.

06/12/2026

iheart Media Welcomes Radio Icon Papa Keith to New Role https://sflcn.com/iheart-media-welcomes-radio-icon-papa-keith-to-new-role/ MIAMI – For more than two decades, South Florida listeners have welcomed Papa Keith into their cars, homes, workplaces, and daily routines. His voice has become synonymous with Miami radio, Caribbean culture, community engagement, and authentic conversations that span generations and backgrounds. Now, the veteran broadcaster is embarking on a new chapter.
National Brand Partnerships & Multicultural Specialist
Effective June 27, Papa Keith will transition to a new role at iHeartMedia as National Brand Partnerships & Multicultural Specialist. He will help develop strategic partnerships and multicultural initiatives that connect brands with diverse audiences nationwide.
While his daily afternoon show on 103.5 The Beat will conclude on June 26, listeners will continue to hear Papa Keith on-air every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 103.5 The Beat and through the growing Papa Keith Podcast, which continues to spotlight culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and community conversations.

Papa Keith
“This next chapter lets me continue doing what I’ve always loved, including building relationships, creating opportunities, supporting culture, and connecting people,” said Papa Keith. “Radio has been my foundation, but my mission has always been bigger than a microphone.”
Community Recognition
The announcement comes amid a year of recognition for the veteran broadcaster. Earlier this month, during Caribbean American Heritage Month, City of Miramar Commissioner Yvette Colbourne honored Papa Keith for his longstanding contributions to South Florida. She also honored him for his commitment to uplifting communities across the region.
A respected media personality, entrepreneur, and community advocate, Papa Keith has spent years using his platform to amplify the voices of those often unheard. Throughout his career, he has interviewed some of the biggest names in music, sports, entertainment, business, and politics. Moreover, he has maintained strong ties to local communities across South Florida and the Caribbean.
Caribbean Roots
Born in Brooklyn, New York, with Trinidadian heritage, Papa Keith built his career through hard work, persistence, and a deep passion for music and culture. After launching his radio career on Miami’s underground station Mixx 96 and appearing on the legendary Luke Show, he quickly became one of South Florida’s most respected on-air personalities.
His career has included successful runs on both WEDR 99 Jamz and WMIB 103.5 The Beat. He has earned numerous accolades, including recognition by Radio & Records as one of the nation’s “Jocks on the Rise” and multiple Miami New Times “Best Of” awards.
Beyond radio, Papa Keith has become a respected cultural ambassador for hip-hop and Caribbean music. Through his work on 103.5 The Beat and the groundbreaking Island Beat program, he has championed reggae, dancehall, soca, and hip-hop artists. Additionally, he has helped audiences grasp the deep cultural connections among these genres. His influence has helped make South Florida a vital crossroads where Caribbean and hip-hop cultures continue to thrive and evolve together.
His impact extends even further through his dedication to community service.
People Matter Fest
In 2017, he launched People Matter Fest, a community-centered music festival and social impact initiative dedicated to reducing gun violence and creating positive opportunities for youth and families. The event’s signature 24-Hour Cease Fire campaign has promoted peace and unity across Miami-Dade County. Consequently, it has demonstrated how entertainment can catalyze meaningful change.
Today, People Matter Fest is a highly anticipated annual event that reflects Papa Keith’s belief that communities thrive when people come together around a purpose. Whether behind the microphone, hosting major events, producing content, mentoring young talent, or advocating for safer communities, Papa Keith has consistently shown that influence is most powerful when used in the service of others.
As he transitions into this new national leadership role, his commitment to culture, community, and connection remains unwavering.
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The post iheart Media Welcomes Radio Icon Papa Keith to New Role appeared first on South Florida Caribbean News.

06/11/2026

For the First Time in 20 Years, You Can Fly Nonstop From Tampa to Nassau in The Bahamas https://www.caribjournal.com/2026/06/11/nassau-bahamas-tampa-flights/ Tampa just got a whole lot closer to Nassau.

For the first time in two decades, travelers can fly nonstop between Tampa International Airport and Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, The Bahamas — restoring a long-dormant Florida Gulf Coast gateway to the Bahamian capital that has been missing from the airlift map since the mid-2000s.

The new service is operated by Breeze Airways, the premium leisure carrier that has spent the past several years building out one of the more interesting route networks in the United States — with an emphasis on underserved city pairs that legacy carriers have largely overlooked. The Tampa-Nassau route fits that pattern almost perfectly.

Introductory one-way fares on the new route start at $99, making it one of the more affordable nonstop Caribbean gateways out of the Florida Gulf Coast.

The new service is one of the more meaningful airlift announcements to land in the Tampa metro market in some time. The Bahamas has long been one of the most-booked destinations from Florida, but the bulk of the airlift has historically been concentrated on the East Coast gateways of Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. Tampa travelers have generally had to connect — adding hours, fees and friction to what is essentially a 45-minute hop in the air.

The new nonstop changes that calculation. Tampa to Nassau is now one of the most accessible international beach trips available from the Gulf Coast, with the flight clocking in at well under two hours.

Why Nassau

Nassau has been one of the most-visited capitals in the Caribbean for as long as the region has been tracking visitor numbers — and the reason is straightforward.

The city sits on the northern coast of New Providence, anchored by a deep natural harbor and connected by bridge to Paradise Island, the resort-heavy strip that has become the gravitational center of Bahamian tourism. Between the two, travelers get a remarkable density of beach, hotel, dining and entertainment options inside a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport.

Cable Beach stretches along the northwestern coast of New Providence, a long arc of soft white sand and shallow turquoise water that’s home to several of the destination’s biggest resorts, including Baha Mar and Sandals Royal Bahamian. Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island is the postcard — a two-mile stretch of powdery sand and exceptionally clear water on the Atlantic side. Junkanoo Beach, just steps from downtown Nassau, is the local favorite for a quick swim between sightseeing stops.

Downtown Nassau itself is one of the more walkable Caribbean capitals, with colonial-era pastel buildings, the famous Queen’s Staircase, Fort Charlotte and the always-buzzing Straw Market. Bay Street runs the length of the historic district and has the bulk of the shopping, duty-free outposts and waterfront restaurants.

The Bahamas Beyond Nassau

The new route also opens up The Bahamas beyond Nassau itself.

Paradise Island is the most obvious extension — home to Atlantis Paradise Island, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort and a long lineup of dining, casino and entertainment options that together make the island one of the most-visited resort destinations in the Caribbean.

The Exumas are another natural extension. The famed swimming pigs of Big Major Cay, the swimming sharks of Compass Cay and the iconic sandbar at Pig Beach all sit within day-trip range of Nassau, with multiple operators running full-day charters from the New Providence marinas.

Blue Lagoon Island, a short ferry ride from Paradise Island, is another classic — a private island with a calm crescent beach, a dolphin encounter, sea lion swims and an inflatable water park.

A longer Bahamas trip is also genuinely easy from a Nassau base. The country’s broader island chain — including Eleuthera, The Abacos, Long Island and Andros — is all accessible via short connecting flights and ferries from Nassau.

Breeze Airways and the Bigger Picture

The Tampa-Nassau launch is part of a broader pattern at Breeze Airways, which has been steadily building out service into the Caribbean and Latin America over the past several years.

The carrier — founded by JetBlue founder David Neeleman — has built its network around the model of point-to-point service between secondary US cities and destinations that legacy carriers tend to underserve. The approach has worked particularly well in markets like Nassau, where Florida demand is significant but the historical airlift has been concentrated on a handful of major East Coast gateways.

The new route adds another meaningful link in the Bahamas‘ continually-expanding airlift picture out of the United States. Nassau is now one of the better-served Caribbean airports for nonstop service from...

For the first time in two decades, travelers can fly nonstop between Tampa International Airport and Lynden Pindling.

06/11/2026

Hospitality Veteran Edward Mady Joins LionGrove https://www.caribjournal.com/2026/06/11/edward-mady-liongrive/ One of the most decorated names in luxury hospitality is taking on a new role in the Caribbean.
LionGrove, the hospitality investment firm, has appointed Edward Mady as Senior Vice President and Managing Director, the company announced this week.

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The post Hospitality Veteran Edward Mady Joins LionGrove appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

LionGrove, the hospitality investment firm, has appointed Edward Mady as Senior Vice President and Managing Director.