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June 14.2025

2 Minutes Read

Experience the Heart of Caribbean Music in Unplugged – A Caribbean Choral Experience

Caribbean performers at Braata Productions Unplugged singing energetically on stage.

Reviving Caribbean Culture Through Song

After a pushing hiatus, Braata Productions is gearing up to enchant audiences once again Off-Broadway with "Unplugged – A Caribbean Choral Experience." Set to immerse attendees in a profound musical journey, the performance promises to highlight individual stories from the award-winning choral group based in Jamaica, Queens. The upcoming season takes a heartfelt approach, not just showcasing celebrated tunes but also spotlighting the personal narratives that animates these songs.

Honoring Suriname’s Rich Legacy

This year marks the golden anniversary of Suriname’s independence, and Braata Productions is set to honor this milestone through evocative musical performances. Not just limited to Surinamese music, the event will also unveil the vibrant culture from lesser-known Caribbean countries, like Belize. In doing so, it aims to create a tapestry of sound that celebrates the nuances and connections within the Caribbean Diaspora.

Educational Programming: Bridging Generations

Beyond theatrical performances, Braata Productions continues its dedication to educational outreach. Recently, they have seen a flourishing of their programs in schools and senior centers throughout New York City. Workshops in dance, theater, and visual arts are reaching diverse audiences, inspiring both youth and elders alike. New offerings, such as an African Hair Braiding Day workshop, exhibit the company's commitment to cultural education and intergenerational connection.

The Significance of the Obie Theatre Grant

What further adds to this celebrated season is the recent recognition of Braata Productions with an Obie Theatre Grant. This accolade not only underscores their commitment to showcasing Caribbean and Caribbean American artists but also emphasizes their growing impact on the New York arts scene. Such accolades serve as a reminder of the potent legacy that community artists create, fostering an environment where diverse narratives and artistic expressions can flourish.

Connecting with the Caribbean Diaspora

With "Unplugged," audiences are invited to engage more intimately than ever with the performances. Instead of a mere musical showcase, it promises a genuine connection— a dialogue between the singers and the audience that transcends cultural barriers. The production invites you to not just listen, but truly hear and feel the echoes of the Caribbean heritage woven through the melodies.

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11.14.2025

Cayman Islands Government Q3 2025 Financial Report: Surplus Highlights and Future Trends

Update The State of the Cayman Islands' Economy in Q3 2025 As of September 30, 2025, the Cayman Islands Government has released its Unaudited Quarterly Financial Report, revealing a promising financial landscape for the territory. The report, published on November 12, 2025, indicates a substantial $137.4 million surplus for the Entire Public Sector (EPS), exceeding budget expectations by $36.6 million. With net assets amounting to $2.6 billion and cash balances reaching $392.8 million, the Cayman Islands appear to be in a strong fiscal position. The surplus stemmed from higher-than-expected revenues, primarily linked to increases in coercive revenue streams. Revenue Growth: What’s Fueling the Surplus? Total revenues for the first nine months of 2025 stood at $970.4 million, reflecting a growth of $56.0 million compared to budget projections and an increase of $56.5 million from the previous year. This growth is largely attributed to a variety of increased fees and other coercive revenues: Other Company Fees: Up by $24.8 million due to an uptick in company registrations. Partnership Fees: Surging by $15.2 million owing to higher-than-anticipated registrations. Private Fund Fees: Increased by $9.7 million as more funds registered. Stamp Duty: A $10.0 million rise linked to a higher volume of property transactions. These figures reflect a robust recovery in the financial services sector and the real estate market, indicating a strong demand for company registrations and property transactions in the Cayman Islands. Balancing Expenses and Revenue Despite the favourable revenue results, government expenses also increased, amounting to $851.1 million, which is $39.1 million more than the budgeted figure. Key areas of expenditure included: Personnel Costs: A significant factor, with expenses reaching $377.6 million, influenced by cost-of-living adjustments. Transfer Payments: Payments in this category exceeded budget expectations by $31.0 million, showcasing increased financial assistance and scholarship programs. The government is expected to continue managing these costs while capitalizing on revenue growth from its core financial sectors. Future Financial Trends: A Cautious Outlook While the third quarter's financial performance is commendable, future projections suggest a potential tightening of the surplus as the year concludes. With planned increases in operating and capital activities, the government anticipates that the surplus as of September 30, 2025, could diminish. Therefore, stakeholders should remain vigilant about the impending budgetary adjustments as 2025 progresses. This financial report not only showcases the immediate fiscal health of the Cayman Islands but also sets a tone of cautious optimism for policymakers and residents alike. Sustainable economic growth is critical, and the government's ability to respond to shifting priorities will inevitably shape future outcomes. As we navigate through the remainder of 2025, understanding these figures and trends will empower citizens and investors alike in making informed decisions about the future of the Cayman Islands' economy. Ultimately, this snapshot of the Cayman Islands' financial health reaffirms its reputation as a resilient and attractive destination for global investments.

11.14.2025

Southwest Airlines Delivers $30,000 in Hurricane Relief Supplies to Jamaica

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11.11.2025

BVI Premier Wheatley’s 2026 Budget Address: Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Update A Vision for Sustainable Growth in the Virgin IslandsIn an inspiring address delivered on November 5, 2025, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley unveiled his government’s commitment to fostering good governance, environmental protection, and democracy in the Caribbean’s British Virgin Islands (BVI). The 2026 budget, themed "Pillars of Progress: Building a Sustainable Nation," outlines a strategic plan aimed at propelling the Territory toward a resilient and prosperous future.Wheatley’s remarks came in the wake of a tumultuous period marked by a Commission of Inquiry (COI) in 2022 that threatened to suspend the BVI's Constitution. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of representative government in the same year that the Order in Council threatening that Constitution was revoked was symbolic of the resilience and unity among the Virgin Islanders. The Premier stated, "When faced with the most serious test to our democracy in decades, we chose to move forward…to protect our democratic progress." This determination underscores a critical turning point for the territory.Proposed Reforms and InitiativesAs part of his visionary agenda, Wheatley highlighted several key initiatives aimed at enhancing governance and institutional stability. Among them is the implementation of the Governance Reform Transition Plan, which seeks to improve accountability and transparency within public service delivery. This includes appointing an Information Commissioner to enforce the Data Protection Act, 2021, and safeguard citizens' privacy.Further stressing the importance of effective governance, the Premier announced plans for a statutory board administrator to enhance oversight and compliance across public bodies. This proactive measure aims to address systemic issues that have hampered efficient governance in the past.Tourism as a Catalyst for Economic GrowthThe tourism sector, a vital pillar of the BVI’s economy, is set to thrive in the upcoming year. Wheatley reported that 2024 saw record visitor numbers, with over 1.1 million tourists arriving in the territory. With projections of continued growth, the 2026 budget aims to capitalize on this momentum by introducing a Tourism Development Bill designed to streamline tourism strategy and marketing initiatives.With tourism revenue expected to reach an impressive $462 million in 2026, the Premier emphasized that the benefits of this economic growth must extend to every Virgin Islander. Significant developments, including the redevelopment of Prospect Reef Resort, are expected to enhance infrastructure while creating jobs and local opportunities.Investing in Food Security and Environmental SustainabilityA noteworthy aspect of the budget address was Wheatley’s commitment to building food security and developing a strong blue economy. The BVI government plans to invest significantly in agricultural infrastructure, including the construction of an Agricultural Complex and a fishing complex aimed at supporting local farmers and fisherfolk. This infrastructure aims not only to bolster local food production but also to ensure natural resources are managed sustainably.Furthermore, the Premier’s initiatives align with global calls for sustainable development, focusing on balancing economic needs with the protection of the environment. Strategies to combat climate change and enhance the local agriculture sector reflect an understanding that safeguarding the ecological health of the islands is pivotal for future generations.Fostering Governance and Democratic EngagementThe Premier reiterated the importance of good governance as a cornerstone of sustainable national development. Ongoing reforms aim to enhance public trust in political institutions, allowing for increased civic engagement. Wheatley highlighted the constitutional review process that will empower residents to have a direct say in their governance—an essential step towards maturity in self-governance.Conclusion: A Collective Effort Towards ProgressAs Dr. Wheatley concluded his address, he urged fellow citizens to be active participants in this journey of transformation. "Let’s build a Virgin Islands that will provide shelter to this generation and generations to come, and let us build with love and let us build in unity," he stated, evoking a strong sense of community responsibility.The 2026 budget marks not just a financial roadmap but a clarion call for all residents to engage in shaping their shared future. With mechanisms in place to promote inclusivity and sustainability, the BVI is poised on the brink of a new era of growth—one that is resilient and reflective of the aspirations of its people.

Experience the Heart of Caribbean Music in Unplugged – A Caribbean Choral Experience

Reviving Caribbean Culture Through Song

Honoring Suriname’s Rich Legacy

Educational Programming: Bridging Generations

The Significance of the Obie Theatre Grant

Connecting with the Caribbean Diaspora

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