By: Derrick Scott

WASHINGTON, DC Jamaica has come in for commendation for its economic initiatives, at the Inter American Development Banks sixth annual meeting of Governors of the Caribbean now taking place in Washington, DC.

The country was also hailed for the positive growth in GDP the country is experiencing, while other Caribbean Countries are experiencing economic challenges.

Jamaicas State Minister in the Ministry of Finance and Planning the Hon. Faval Williams, who is representing Jamaica at the IDB meeting, said the the countrys economic achievements could not be achieved without the support of our multilateral partners, chief among them, the Inter-=American Development Bank, the IDB.

She pointed out that the IDB had partnered with Jamaica to implement a number of important projects, including tourism and port development.

During bilateral talks between Minister Williams and President of the Inter-American Development Bank, Luis Alberto Moreno, she urged the IDB to take another look Jamaicas agricultural sector with a view to enabling small and medium enterprises (SME) to gain access to affordable financing, as this was critical to the growth and expansion of the agricultural sector.

Among the topics being discussed over the three days include de risking and correspondent banking, the development outlook for the Caribbean, and the role of the private sector in the development of the Regions economy.

IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno greets Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Planning Hon. Faval Williams as she arrives at the Banks Headquarters. Looking on from left is Jamaicas IDB representative Arthur Williams and IDBs Executive Director for the Caribbean Jerry Butler (R). Derrick Scott Photo

The three day meeting will come to a close on Thursday, when Finance Ministers and Governors of the Central Banks of the Caribbean will attend the one hundred and fourteenth meeting of the Committee of the Board of Governors of the Inter American Development Bank, and the 45th meeting of the Committee of the Board of Governors of the Inter American Investment Corporation.

Minister Faval Williams is accompanied by Jamaicas representative to the IDB, Mr. Arthur Williams.

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Jamaica Commended For Its Economic Initiatives At IDB - South Florida Caribbean News

As the days seem to be getting longer, many turn their heads to summer plans, dreaming of pristine white sandy beaches, cocktails in hand and a smile on their faces.

The fact of the matter is there is no need to wait until the European summer. Its always summer somewhere in the world and what better destination than St Martin?

SXM Festival is back for its second edition, acting as both a festival and getaway destination set amongst iconic shores and picturesque jungles.

Sounds good right? Not to mention a musical line-up consisting of global house and techno big hitters me (Live), Jamie Jones, Ricardo Villalobos, Richie Hawtin and many many more.

Julian Prince, Founder of SXM Festival, said: After our much talked about inaugural year, we are beyond excited to return to beautiful St. Martin with some of the worlds best DJs and producers.

"In curating this years lineup it was our hope to offer a look into the past, present and future of our community.

"From legendary fixtures of the scene, to up-and-coming stars, to the avant-garde sounds of tomorrow, we have bridged all channels in choosing the soundtrack for SXM Festival 2017.

"It was our hope to craft a lineup that reflected the talents of both men and women from across all corners of the globe and bring them to the oasis of St. Martin for a totally unique dance music experience."

For five sunrises and sunsets, attendees can find themselves barefoot at the secluded white-sand beach mainstage, adrift on an iconic Caribbean Boat Party, at exclusive VIP Villa Parties, lost down a techno tailspin in a natural jungle venue, or swept up in the local cuisine and rich culture of the half Dutch, half French island paradise, St Martin.

A no brainer to wash away those Winter blues. For tickets visit the site here .

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SXM Festival on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin announces 2017 edition - Mirror.co.uk

Antigua, West Indies (February 20, 2017) The ninth edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 started today in sparkling conditions with the largest ever offshore fleet assembled in the Caribbean. A southeasterly breeze, occasionally gusting up to 15 knots, and a relatively calm sea state provided the landscape for the 80-boats to begin their 600 nm tour of 11 islands.

This fleet is awe inspiring because of the quality of the boats and you can see that by the competition at the start to get close to the cliffs, noted Eddie Warden Owen, RORC Chief Executive. From the first gun, people were pushing hard to win the race. The RORC Caribbean 600 has grown, year after year and we just love it, it is the perfect playground for offshore racing.

The MOD70 battle for multihull line honours has already kicked off. Lloyd Thornburgs Phaedo3 pulled away from Giovanni Soldinis Maserati at the upwind start but as the two cracked sheets at Green Island, Maserati deployed their foils and took up the lead. Two hours into the race, the two flying trimarans were approaching the Barbuda mark touching 18 knots of boat speed.

Battle of the MOD70s: Giovanni Soldinis Maserati (ITA) and Lloyd Thornburgs Phaedo3 (USA) RORC/Tim Wright

George Davids American Rambler 88 at the start of the RORC Caribbean 600 RORC/Tim Wright

George Davids Rambler 88 got away to a terrific start and leads the monohull fleet on the water by almost three miles on approach to Barbuda. However, three hours into the race and after IRC time correction, George Sakellaris Proteus is estimated to be leading overall with Hap Fauths Bella Mente second and Rambler 88 third.

IRC Canting Keel and IRC Zero produced a thrilling start. Among the two Maxi72s, Proteus was perilously close to the line at the start and boldly sailed Bella Mente towards the cliffs. You could hear Bella Mente calling for water from the cliff top and within less than a boat length of the rocky shoreline, Proteus tacked, leaving Bella Mente no option but to tack into their dirty air.

It is likely that the two Maxi72s will be having a close quarters battle throughout the race. Proteus passed Green Island just 26 seconds ahead of Bella Mente. The two powerful yachts hoisted spinnakers, accelerating through the Caribbean swell and Proteus showed a better turn of speed opening a lead of several miles on the way to Barbuda.

Proteus, winner of the 2016 RORC Caribbean 600 and Hap Fauths Bella Mente RORC Tim Wright

Ed Fishwicks J/122 Redshift on El Ocaso nailed the pin end at the first start which saw the combined IRC Two & IRC 3 classes away clear. This year with softer winds predicted, perhaps one of these yachts will win the overall prize of the RORC Caribbean 600 Trophy.

Redshift on El Ocaso was leading on the water at Green Island but two hours into the race, Sailing Logics First 40, Joanna of Cowes, skippered by James Sweetman, was estimated to be leading IRC Two after time correction. In IRC Three, Jonty Layfields Swan 48 Sleeper X held a two mile lead on the American Swan 48, Isbjorn and was estimated to be leading on corrected time. However the entire class of nine yachts are all very close on the water.

The Class40 Division are enjoying incredibly close racing. Peter Hardings Ph-orty leads, Catherine Pourres Erendil and Halvard Mabires Campagne de France are both within one mile. The pack of Class40s have the magnificent sight of the 182ft twin-masted schooner Adela ahead of them. Cressida Robinson reporting from Carl Wilcoxs Nisida: We have had everything from 15 knots gusting up to 30 and spotted a water spout on the way to Barbuda.

Ed Fishwicks J/122 Redshift on El Ocaso nailed the pin end at the first start which saw the combined IRC Two & IRC 3 fleet RORC/Tim Wright

Transpac 52 Heartbreaker (USA), Mike Slades Farr 100, Leopard (GBR), George Davids Rambler 88(USA) and Hap Fauths JV 72, Bella Mente (USA) RORC/Tim Wright

RORC Commodore, Michael Boyd was hoping to compete on Giles Redpaths Pata Negra, but due to business commitments had to watch the start from ashore this year. It was almost as nerve racking to be up at Fort Charlotte as on the water, and of course we are all hurlers from the ditch telling them to get closer to the cliffs. It was a fascinating start from an amazing and historic vantage point to see these wonderful boats take off. Everything went very smoothly, which is a great tribute to our professional race management team and our volunteers. This was quite an emotional moment for me and we will of course be wishing them all well for the next few days and a safe return.

Hundreds of spectator watch Phaedo3 and Maserati head off towards Barbuda after the start Rachel Fallon-Langdon / Team Phaedo

Event details Tracker Notice of Race Entry list

Background: The 9th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 starts from Antigua on Monday February 20, 2017. The 600nm course circumnavigates 11 Caribbean Islands starting from Fort Charlotte, English Harbour, Antigua and heads north as far as St Martin and south to Guadeloupe taking in Barbuda, Nevis, St Kitts, Saba and St Barths.

Source: Royal Ocean Racing Club

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Horses on the Caribbean Track - Scuttlebutt Sailing News

(Newser) "Straight up: This is hell. Getting locked up in Haiti will drive you crazy if it doesn't kill you first," homicide suspect Vangeliste Bazile tells the AP from Haiti's National Penitentiary. The crumbling facility houses around 5,000 prisoners, 80% of which are in extended pretrial detention. Overcrowding, malnutrition, and infectious diseases that flourish in jammed quarters have led to an upsurge of inmate deaths in Haiti, including 21 at the Port-au-Prince penitentiary just last month. Those who monitor the country's lockups are sounding an alarm about collapsing conditions. "This is the worst rate of preventable deaths that I have encountered anywhere in the world," says Dr. John May, co-founder of the Health Through Walls nonprofit.

Some inmates are provided meals by visiting relatives, but the large majority of prisoners are dependent on authorities to feed them twice a day and get little more than rationed supplies of rice, oats, or cornmeal. Even clean drinking water is often in short supply. Prison authorities say they try their best to meet inmates' needs, but receive insufficient funds from the state to buy food and cooking fuel. Haiti's penal system is by far the globe's most congested, with a staggering 454% occupancy level, according to the University of London's Institute for Criminal Policy Research. The nonprofit Institute for Justice and Democracy blames the overcrowding on rampant corruption, with judges, prosecutors, and lawyers creating a market for bribes.

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Dozens Starve to Death in Caribbean Prison - Newser

After all of the bad PR surrounding Johnny Depp, Disney removed him from allPirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales promotional materials, at least until the Super Bowl.Now, after feeling like its safe to bring him out of hiding, theyve released a series of new posters centered around the famed pirate. Theyre absolutely awful by the way, looking like a Photoshop job by an inexperienced college student. Woof.

Johnny Depp returns to the big screen as the iconic, swashbuckling anti-hero Jack Sparrow in the all-new Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. The rip-roaring adventure finds down-on-his-luck Captain Jack feeling the winds of ill-fortune blowing strongly his way when deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazer (Javier Bardem), escape from the Devils Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea notably Jack. Jacks only hope of survival lies in the legendary Trident of Poseidon, but to find it he must forge an uneasy alliance with Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario), a brilliant and beautiful astronomer, and Henry (Benton Thwaites), a headstrong young sailor in the Royal Navy. At the helm of the Dying Gull, his pitifull small and shabby ship, Captain Jack seeks not only to reverse his recent spate of ill fortune, but to save his very life from the most formidable and malicious foe he has never faced.

In theaters May 26th from directorsEspen Sandberg and Joachim Rnning, the entire cast includes: Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Javier Bardem, Kevin R. McNally, Stephen Graham, Golshifteh Farahani, Kaya Scodelario, Brenton Thwaites, Orlando Bloom, Paul McCartney, David Wenham, and Stephen Graham.

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Johnny Depp is in 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales', Apparently - Bloody Disgusting

A 75-year-old woman experiencing diabetic shock was airlifted by the U.S. Coast Guard Saturday morning from a cruise ship located approximately 100 miles east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.

The Coast Guard said its 5th District Command Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, was notified at about 9:55 a.m. that a passenger in distress was on board the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Anthem of the Seas.

"An HC-130 Hercules aircraft crew and an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, North Carolina, launched to assist," the Coast Guard said in a statement. "Upon arrival, the Jayhawk helicopter crew hoisted the woman to the helicopter and transported her to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, arriving at about 1:50 p.m."

The unidentified woman's rescue was captured in the following video, which was released by the Coast Guard.

Coast Guard Lt. Courtney Wolf, the command duty officer for the case, said, "Cases like this highlight the importance of cooperation between the Coast Guard, cruise ship personnel and local hospital staff. Today's hoist went seamlessly due to the coordination between all involved parties, and as a result we were able to transport this individual quickly and safely."

Diabetic shock -- or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) -- is a diabetes complication that can lead to unconsciousness, during which the individual has dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

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Woman suffering diabetic shock airlifted by Coast Guard from Royal Caribbean cruise ship - ABC News

Caribbean Nations except St. Kitts and Nevis express concern President Trumps immigration policy will slow tourism

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS All but oneCaribbean country St. Kitts and Nevis have expressed concern that US President Donald Trumps immigration policies could lead to a slowdown in travel to a region dependent on tourism.

As Caribbean leaders, except St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris ended their mid-term summit in Guyanas capital city Georgetown, incoming CARICOM Chairman Dr. the Right Hon. Keith Mitchell Prime Minister of Grenada said the trade bloc has adopted a wait-and-see attitude with respect to Americas evolving migration policy and how it affects the regions vital tourism industry.

No representative from the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis attended the Inter-Sessional and there has been no official statement from the Office of Prime Minister Harris on his absence or that of the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign affairs or the Ambassador to CARICOM.

Hon. Keith Mitchell, PM Grenada

The Grenada Prime Minister Mitchell told a news conference: We must obviously be concerned with the recent issue related to immigration, and the impact it will have on our citizens and on tourism.

Millions of Caribbean nationals including citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis live in the United State as permanent residents, naturalized citizens or illegal aliens.

Many travel regularly to their home countries, while others send remittances totalling hundreds of millions of dollars each year to relatives who remain in the Caribbean.

Prime Minister Mitchell said he understands the reluctance of some Caribbean residents in the US not to leave the country.

Trumps attempted crackdown on refugees and immigrants from some majority Muslim countries has raised concerns that he may try to impose harsher travel restrictions on them as well.

The uncertainty is there so clearly that has to be settled, said the Grenadian leader, who once lived in the US for 14 years.

Dr. Mitchell said he hoped that the US Congress would temper Trumps executive actions on immigration.

You cant ignore the voices of the people of the United States, so I expect that this thing has to settle the uncertainty cannot continue, Mitchell said.

I believe when the dust is settled, things must improve, because our borders are too close to the United States for them to risk uncertainty or problems in our direction, he said.

Trump said on Thursday he will announce a new executive order on immigration next week, after his original, much-criticized travel ban was blocked by US courts.

The January 27 order was widely criticized as amounting to a ban on Muslims, and also for being rolled out sloppily with virtually no warning to the public or preparation of the agencies tasked with enforcing it.

CARICOM INTER-SESSIONAL 28

The Twenty-Eighth Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was held at Georgetown, Guyana, on 16-17 February 2017.

The President of Guyana, His Excellency Brigadier (Retd) David Granger, chaired the proceedings. Other members of the Conference in attendance were Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Honourable Gaston Browne; Prime Minister of Barbados, Rt. Honourable Freundel Stuart; Prime Minister of Dominica, Dr. the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit; Prime Minister of Grenada, Dr. the Rt. Honourable Keith Mitchell; President of Haiti, His Excellency Jovenel Moise; Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves; and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley.

The Bahamas was represented by Honourable Fred Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration; Belize was represented by Honourable Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Jamaica was represented by Senator, Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade; Saint Lucia was represented by Honourable Sarah Flood Beaubrun, Minister in charge of External Affairs; Suriname was represented by Honourable Yldiz Pollack-Beighle, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The Associate Member in attendance was Turks and Caicos Islands, represented by Deputy Premier, Honourable Sean Astwood, Minister of Border Control and Labour.

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Caribbean Nations Concerned President Trump's Immigration Policy Will Slow Tourism - South Florida Caribbean News

Dear Editor,

While the Guyana government is processing applications for the appointment of a Chancellor and Chief Justice, the Caribbean Court of Justice has commented on impartiality and the importance of judicial appointments, and stressed that there must be independence of the judiciary.

The comments came a day before the regional court announced the appointment of a Belizean to replace retiring Trinidadian Justice Rolston Nelson on the court. The new appointee is Denys Barrow, a West Indian trained attorney who will assume office on June 1.

It seems as if the Caribbean trained attorney is taking over the judiciary in the region. Three other CCJ judges were also trained in the Caribbean: Adrian Saunders of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Maureen Ragnauth-Lee of Port of Spain and Jamaican Winston Anderson. Anderson however was further trained in London where he was called to Lincolns Inn. In addition he gained his PhD in Philosophy. And speaking of Caribbean trained lawyers, the heads of the judiciary of Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Guyana as well as Belize-Guyanese Kenneth Benjamin were also graduates of the Council of Legal Education in the region.

Justice Nelson is the fourth CCJ judge to go into retirement. The others were the first President Michael La Bastide, a Trinidadian, and two Guyanese, Duke Pollard and Desiree Bernard. The present composition of the court is Sir Denis Byron of St Kitts/Nevis (President), Nelson (who is going into retirement on May 31), Saunders, Jacob Wit of the Netherlands, David Hayton of the UK, Anderson of Jamaica, and Ragnauth of Trinidad and Tobago. It is interesting to see who will be named to head the judiciary in Guyana and whether the Presidents choice will get the nod from the Opposition Leader; if not he or she has to act until there is an agreement or the Constitution is amended to remove agreement and replace it with in consultation with the Leader of the Opposition as was the case before 2002. There must also be agreement for the confirmation of the Chief Justice as well. However Appellate Court and first instant judges are appointed by the Judicial Services Commission. Appellate Court Judge B S Roy is scheduled to go into retirement next month.

Yours faithfully,

Oscar Ramjeet

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Caribbean trained attorneys are taking over the judiciary in the region - Stabroek News

Royal Caribbean Blog (blog)

Royal Caribbean cancels all cruise stops in Turkey in 2017 Royal Caribbean Blog (blog) Royal Caribbean has decided to cancel all scheduled stops in Turkey for the 2017 cruise season, citing "unpredictability" in the country. In a statement to travel agents, Royal Caribbean said that due to the current unpredictability of Turkey, and ...

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Royal Caribbean cancels all cruise stops in Turkey in 2017 - Royal Caribbean Blog (blog)

Image Credit: Gizmodo/Andrew Liszewski

Pirates of the Caribbean 5's Super Bowl trailer gave us a look at an amazing ghost ship in the film, captained by Jacks new rival, the undead Captain Salazar. Now, Lego has revealed its turning the Salazars ghost ship into a humongous new modelone that can open itself up just like the one in the movie, which is totally freaky for a ship.

Revealed at New York Toy Fair this morning, the 2,200 piece Silent Mary set might just be one of the most bizarre ships Lego has ever made, either in their own traditional Pirate-themed lines or for Pirates of the Caribbean. The whole ship doesnt actually have a baseits hull is all decayed and lined like a skeletal rib cage, and floats in the air (through movie magic in the film, the Lego version has its own stands to support it, of course). Yahoo got some more pictures of the ship with its biggest action feature, however: the front half of the whole thing can tilt itself up like it does in the trailer.

It looks totally weird, and yet kind of awesome in Lego form. The detailing to get the grungy, decaying look of the whole thing is really well done.

When fully built, the Silent Mary is a beast of a vessel, even without the ability to contort itself in ways no other ship cancoming in at 26 inches from bow to stern, and 18 inches tall from bottom to the top of its tallest decrepit mast. Aside from the ship itself, the set comes with a small rowboat for the heroes to desperately sail away from the Mary in, and eight minifigures: Jack Sparrow, Henry, and Carina, and then villains Lieutenant Lesaro, Captain Salazar, Officer Magda, Officer Santos, and the Silent Mary Masthead itself. That last one feels like a bit of a cheat addition if you ask me, but overall, the ship itself is a really intriguing looking kit, even if its not a traditional pirate ship.

The Silent Mary will set you back $200 when it releases April 1.

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Lego's New Pirates of the Caribbean Ship Can Open Itself Up Like a Skeleton's Ribcage - Gizmodo

NEW YORK, United States (CMC) A Caribbean/American legislator has sought to dispel rumours about immigration sweeps at, among other places, a popular Caribbean department store and major hospital in Brooklyn.

New York City Council Member Jumaane Williams, the son of Grenadian immigrants, who represents the predominantly Caribbean 45th Council District in Brooklyn, said that he and his staffers have been following up on the many rumours, as we can.

Many of the rumours about immigration sweeps at Bobbys Department Store and the expansive Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, among other places, are being circulated primarily on social media.

We have spoken to owners of the commuter van lines, as well as the management at Bobbys Department Store, and have confirmed that at this time there have not been general indiscriminate stops made by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents over the past few days, said Williams, who is also deputy leader of the New York City Council.

There have, however, been incidents of people posing as immigration officials in efforts to scam people for money, he said, noting in addition, we remain in touch with the mayors office.

The best thing an understandably concerned community can do is be armed with accurate information. To that end, we ask everyone to make an effort to substantiate information before spreading as rumours. Unfortunately, the immigrant community has reason to be worried and should stay vigilant.

Williams has been among the Caribbean communitys most vocal critics of the Trumps administration immigration policies.

On January 25, Trump signed an executive order vastly expanding who is considered a priority for deportation, the New York Times said.

This has prompted further outrage from Caribbean/American legislators, who have called for a very strong stance against the new presidents immigration policies.

My office recommends: First, if you hear info about ICE activity, please continue to forward them to us, Williams said.

Second, if you should see activity you suspect are ICE actions, please send any concrete information that can safely and without interference be obtained.

You should also call your local precinct as they may be ICE impersonators looking to scam unsuspecting people, he added, stating that the New York Police Department [NYPD] is not currently working with immigration officials; and, as policy, does not randomly ask people about their immigration status.

Williams, however, said concerns about immigration checkpoints and raids, whether rumours or not, are evidence of the mass hysteria that has taken hold of communities across the country, because of Trump.

This administration, from day one, has done everything in its power to marginalize people, create a culture of fear, and divide Americans, he said.

The Presidents erratic behaviour only makes it more difficult for our communities, as evidenced by his recent announcement about the possibility of deploying 100,000 National Guard troops for immigration round ups, Williams added.

I stand with my New York City colleagues in government in standing against Trump on actions against our immigrant brothers and sisters.

On Friday, the White House denied reports of a plan to deploy as many as 100,000 National Guard troops as part of a nationwide deportation force that would help to augment federal agents and local authorities newly deputized to enforce Trumps immigration policies.

On Friday, ICE officials disclosed that criminal immigrants from Guyana and Jamaica were among 41 people arrested in the New York metropolitan area this month.

ICE said the offenses included 12 people with convictions for sex-related crimes, including three cases of rape and six involving offenses against children; nine with convictions for driving under the influence; three with robbery convictions; and two with convictions for distribution or sale of cocaine.

All of the convictions listed qualified as deportable offenses under the previous Obama administration.

On Friday, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders expressed concern that Trumps immigration policies could result in a reduction of travel to the Caribbean.

We must obviously be concerned with the recent issue related to immigration, and the impact it will have on our citizens and on tourism, Grenadas Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell, told reporters at the conclusion of the two-day CARICOM summit in Guyana.

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Caribbean/American legislator dispels rumours about immigration sweep - Jamaica Observer

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Tropical air from the Caribbean will set temperatures soaring over the next few days across Cornwall to around double the average temperature for February.

It's after an incredibly mild half term that's seen us reaching for the sunhats, grabbing the barbecues and heading for the beach in Cornwall.

Temperatures could peak at 16C nationally and up to 14C in Cornwall on Monday thanks to a jet stream moving up from the tropics which has dominated the past week and brought us mild, if a little cloudy, weather.

Read more: Nurdles pollution at record levels in Cornwall as 100,000 tiny plastic pellets found on one beach alone

Emma Salter, Met Office metereologist, said: "Nationally speaking, things are rather on the mild side with the temperatures peaking on Monday around 16 degrees. That's come from the tropics.

Read more: Culdrose Air Day cancelled because there are not enough Royal Navy staff around

"It might brighten up later today. The next few days will stay on the cloudy side so although it will be rather warm there will be dsome outbreaks of light rain. A lot of hill fog and sea fog around in the mornings.

"As for those temperatures in Cornwall, we can probably expect to see today 11 or 12C today and tomorrow and on Monday we're looking at 13C possibly 14 degrees in the south west. Monday is the peak mildest day but it will remain mild into Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Normally it would be 7 or 8C so it is a really mild for the time of year. It's originated over the caribeean Bahamas. The jet stream is quite far north at the moment. It's kept the UK on the warm side of the jet."

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Caribbean air will send February temperatures soaring in Cornwall - Cornwall Live

We are pleased to bring you on-site coverage of New York Toy Fair 2017, where LEGO has officially revealed a brand new set for the upcoming film, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. The fifth installment of the highly popular Disney Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise his theaters May 26, 2017.

71042 Silent Mary will be available beginning May 1, 2017, and will retail for $199.99.

LEGO has also released several official photos of the Silent Mary.

In addition to the new ship, LEGO had the two new BrickHeadz: Captain Jack Sparrow and Captain Armando Salazar.

Dont miss the rest of our Toy Fair 2017 coverage here on The Brothers Brick:

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New LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean sets revealed at New York Toy Fair 2017, coming in May [News] - The Brothers Brick

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After a few sips of the house special, you may start feeling those shiggidy vibes. Its best enjoyed with live soca music, a blend of soul and calypso, or while watching Mr. Xs fire-eating show. This local beach hangout is also a great spot to catch a green flash sunset, a brief but beautiful atmospheric phenomenon that makes the sinking sun appear bright green as it dips below the horizon. With a Shiggidy Jig in hand, the green flash will be even brighter.

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Sample the Green Bonaire, a neon green liquid made from the Kadushi cactus while relaxing under the factorys ancient Calbas trees. Or take a quick factory tour to learn how a cactus can lead to 80 proof alcohol, which involves a process of cutting the cactuss skin, drying the inner membrane in the sun for two days, and then combining the strips with yeast and sorghum (Bonaires only local grains). The original cocktail recipe made with this unique ingredient blends together Cadushy of Bonaire Liqueur, vodka and triple sec. Try it and then you can boast to friends and family about that time you drank a cactus. As for the taste? Somewhere between sweet and herbal, a neat taste of Cadushy is a flavor profile so unique that youll just have to try it yourself!

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Hailed as a juice box for adults, Papa Jac is sold commercially around the island in pouches. But next time youre in San Juan, walk past the vibrant colonial townhouses along the cobblestone streets toward Don Pablo to drink the cozy cocktail bars Papa Jac in its original Big Gulp-style cup.

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A Caribbean trip would be remiss without a taste of the rare, crimson liquor found only in Aruba, the island of twisty fofoti trees and pristine white beaches. Agave plant sap is used for the sweet liqour known as Coecoei, which is hard to find off the island. Experience what makes this 100-proof liquor so good in Arubas signature cocktail,the Ariba, which is a synthesis of Coecoei, rum, vodka and fruit juices. Its served in a tall glass mug to showcase the rainbow effect of the juices red, orange and yellow hues, which mingle to revitalize parched palettes. After one swig, dont be surprised if you find yourself buying bubble wrap to protect those bottles of Coecoei packed in your suitcase.

Theres no better way to celebrate the clear waters and hot sands of St. Maarten than with a Guavaberry Kir. The cocktail combines champagne and the locally made Guavaberry liqueur, which together form a fitting homage to the islands Euro-Caribbean roots. Guavaberry liqueur is made from oak aged rum, cane sugar and wild guavaberries grown on the island. The plump, grape-like Guavaberry not related to guava fruit grows on trees, ripening into orange and black varieties. Drop by the Guavaberry Emporium in the heart of Philipsburg to taste a piece of the islands heritage.

Black pineapples populate the island of Antigua and are used to garnish the popular cocktail found all over the islands cosmopolitan epicenter. The unusual fruit, which is actually green instead of black when ripened, are renowned for their distinct sweetness. But the most important ingredient in the Antigua Smile is Cavalier rum, which the Antigua Distillery Limited has been creating on the island since 1947. The clear rum is distilled from fermented molasses and aged a minimum of two years in American bourbon barrels to create the silky, mellow flavor that balances the crme de banana and pineapple juice in the islands native cocktail. No wonder its called an Antigua Smile!

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At Landhuis Chobolobo, a 19th-century mansion, you can learn about this favorite island alcohol and taste the different cocktail variations created by the in-house mixologists that cant be found anywhere else. But dont miss the chance to ask the bartender for an authentic Blue Lagoon, so that you can consider yourself a true connoisseur while relishing Curaaos cool sea breeze.

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Those who make the pilgrimage to Mount Gay Rum Visitors Centre, just north of Bridgetown Harbor, can enjoy the creations of the distillerys master blenders at its Bottomless Rum Punch Station. You cant go wrong with a Mount Gay Rum Punch, which blends the signature rum with grenadine, lime juice, simple syrup, angostura bitters and fresh grated nutmeg for a satisfying old-timey favorite. Bottoms up!

Explore a new culture and experience the thrill of making lifelong memories with friends and family when you set sail with Royal Caribbeanvoted Best Cruise Line for 14 years and counting by Travel Weekly readers. Mix up your next vacation and visit Royal Caribbean to plan your extraordinary adventure.

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The 8 Most Memorable Island Cocktails To Try On Your Next Caribbean Adventure - Huffington Post

Black Caribbean immigrants play mas at the annual West Indian Day Carnival in Brooklyn, NY. (Hayden Roger Celestin image)

By NAN Staff Writer

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Feb. 17, 2017: There is no denying that black immigrants from the Caribbean are a significant part of the African-American and black population in the United States today. Here are 10 facts you should know about this dynamic bloc this Black History Month:

1: Black immigrants from the Caribbean make up 50 percent of all foreign-born blacks living in the United States today according to the Pew Research Center and are estimated at 1.7 million.

2: Jamaican-born black immigrants make up the largest percentage of foreign born blacks in the U.S, with a conservative estimate of about 682,000 Black immigrants born or 18 percent of the national total of all foreign-born blacks.

3: Black immigrants from the Caribbean account for an estimated 8.7 percent of the entire black population in the U.S. today, according to data from the American Community Survey analyzed by Pew.

4: Researchers, however, have found that black Caribbean immigrants are more likely to assert an ethnic identity as West Indian or Jamaican, for example, rather than a racial identity as a black American.

5: Most black Caribbean immigrants admitted into the U.S. are less likely to be undocumented and are mostly legally admitted based on family ties and family sponsorship, according to the Pew Hispanic Center.

6: Black Caribbean immigrants naturalize at a higher share than all other immigrants in the U.S. and are more likely to be U.S. citizens and less likely to be refugees or asylees or benefit from the diversity visa lottery.

7: Black Caribbean immigrants are most likely to be English proficient than other immigrants, according to Kevin Thomas of the Pennsylvania State University in A Demographic Profile of Black Caribbean Immigrants in the United States.

8: Today, some 813,000 children under the age of 10 have parents who are Black immigrants from the Caribbean, according to the Migration Policy Center.

9: English-speaking Black Caribbean immigrants earn more than Black African immigrants according to Thomas.

10: A new study from the New York City Department of Health, which examined health discrepancies among black New Yorkers, found that Caribbean immigrants tend to have fewer health problems like asthma and obesity than American-born blacks. Further, some 53 percent of American blacks labeled themselves as drinkers, compared with only 44 percent of Caribbean nationals.

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Black Caribbean Immigrants In The US Today 10 Things You Should Know This Black History Month - News Americas Now Caribbean And Latin America Daily...

Hot air blasting into the UK from across the Atlantic will make the UK hotter than the rest of Europe

A CARIBBEAN blast heatwave will see temperatures double to hotter than Barcelona and Athens this weekend with the warm weather lasting well into next week.

ButBrits should make the most of it, as the tropical weather is expected to drop by halfby Wednesday.

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Warm blasts of air coming over the Atlantic will make Britain one of the hottest parts of Europe with highs of 17C on Monday, while temperatures plunged down to -5C overnight across the Channel in France.

The dramatic change in climate comes just days after the country was covered in snow and pelted with sleet and rain.

A Met Office spokesman told Sun Online: Its going to feel exceptionally warm.

Its really mild for the time of year. Its well above average.

The average temperature we would normally expect at this time of year is 8C.

Its still winter, we dont come into spring until March 1.

Experts said there will be cloud and drizzly rain in the west, but that the sun would break through bringing us some genuinely warm and dry spells.

While the warm weather will drop back to average by Thursday, forecastersdont expect last weeks freezing temperatures to return although admitted that snow was no uncommon in March.

The Met Office admitted the kind of heavy rain and flooding which battered the UK last year looked unlikely but could not be ruled out.

A spokesman said: We still cant rule that out but its not looking very likely.

The east of England and Scotland will enjoy the best of the warm weather, while the south-west could see showers and blustery winds.

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The UK is expected to behotter than Abu Dhabi, experiencing a winter chill, on Monday.

Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said yesterday Air is coming from near the tropics and it will feel spring-like.

Average February highs are 8-9C but the weekend has 14C as the upper possibility and next week could be exceptionally mild with 16C possible in the east of England and Scotland. To get to 17C would need warmer air.

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The South and East will have the best of the sunshine and drier conditions, with the North-West wetter and windier.

But from midweek could see gales sometimes in the North, and the cold risk increases at the end of next week and into March, with potential cold weather. Snow is not uncommon in March.

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Friday will be mainly dry for most areasbut with occasional rain or drizzle in western areas of northern England, Scotland and Wales.

Saturday and Sunday will be dry for most areas with patches of brightness and unseasonably warm temperatures.

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UK weather to get hotter than Barcelona as Caribbean blast 'heatwave' keeps temperatures soaring into next week ... - The Sun

Photo: Silvia Izquierdo, AP

AP PHOTOS: Editor selections from Latin America, Caribbean

This photo gallery highlights some of the top imagery and news moments made by Associated Press photographers in Latin America and Caribbean that were published in the last week.

People in Paraguay remembered family members who disappeared during the era of military dictatorships as their remains began to be identified and returned to relatives.

In Brazil's Espirito Santo state, a labor dispute that kept police from patrolling led to a surge in crime and violence with dozens of homicides, while Mexican marines killed the leader of the Beltran Leyva drug cartel in a gunbattle.

Colombian workers packed up hundreds of thousands of roses for shipment to the United States before Valentine's Day.

The Panama Canal's expensive and bigger locks are experiencing growing pains as pilots and captains learn to navigate them with some of the world's biggest cargo ships.

In Guatemala, a town grieved after two children were kidnapped on the way to school and their bodies were found.

Brazilians faced the ghost of the most recent Olympic Games and World Cup as the stadiums and other infrastructure built for the events begin crumble and waste away.

In Mexico, an American professional wrestler has become the man to hate by portraying a flamboyant Donald Trump supporter amid the widespread anger at the new U.S. president's immigration policies.

Uruguay's U-20 squad won the South America qualifying soccer tournament in Quito, Ecuador, while Venezuela also qualified for the 2017 U-20 World Cup that will take place in South Korea.

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This photo gallery was curated by photo editor Tomas Stargardter in Mexico City.

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AP photographers and photo editors on Twitter: http://apne.ws/15Oo6jo

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AP PHOTOS: Editor selections from Latin America, Caribbean - SFGate

Walt Disney World on Thursday unveiled expansion plans for its Coronado Springs and Caribbean Beach hotels.

Coronado Springs Resort will get a new 15-story tower with500 rooms, featuring suites and concierge level services.

The new tower overlooking Lago Dorado, the resorts centerpiece lake, will allow guests to experiencerooftop dining with viewsof fireworks from Disney theme parks.

The hotel will also refurbish its rooms.

Disney said on its blog it also plans to transform Coronado Springs landscape. There will be floating gardens and an island oasis that connects the resort through a series of bridges.

Also there will be additions to the Caribbean Beach Resort, including new waterfront dining and retail shopping areas at the Centertown marketplace. Disney said in a blog post this centralized location will offer the resorts guests more convenient access to services, amenities and dining.

The Southwestern-themed Coronado Springs opened 20 years ago, aiming to capture the convention market.

Caribbean Beach Resort has been around since the late 1980s.

Both are Disney moderate resorts. Both hotels currently average about $209 a night.

spedicini@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5240; Twitter @SandraPedicini

spedicini@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5240; Twitter @SandraPedicini

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Disney World announces expansion at Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach resorts - Orlando Sentinel

THE BAHAMAS (Feb. 16, 2017)Caribbean tourism fared well in 2016, and industry stakeholders are generally upbeat about the year ahead, despite the fact that many hoteliers were forced to adjust their high performance expectations for 2016 as the year progressed because of unforeseen events.

Announcing the results of the second annual Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Industry Performance and Outlook Study,Frank Comito, director general and CEO of the private sector association, stated that more than four out of five (81 percent) hoteliers have an encouraging outlook.

Comito explained that the survey,conducted by CHTA, was undertaken to assist the organization in gaining a better understanding of the state of the tourism economy, its outlook, and the degree to which a number of factors impact or may affect the tourism industry.

The survey, administeredduring the first two weeks of this year, polleda representative sampling of hotels throughout the Caribbean of varying sizes and categories, and looked at their 2016 performance and 2017 expectations for factorsin areassuch as employment levels, revenue, profits, capital spending, room occupancy and room rates, each forming the basis for assessing the state of the tourism economy.

In 2016, hoteliers reported an even split on revenue performance, with 47 percent recording an increase and a similar percentage reporting a decrease. Although expectations for the yearwere higher initially, last years mixed performance came after an exceptionalyear for Caribbean tourism in 2015.

Hoteliers entered 2016 with high performance expectations, but these were tempered as a combination of unanticipated factors surfaced during the year, said Comito. These events included a warmer than usual winter in the regions primary feeder markets, Canadian and UK exchange rates, Brexit, the threat ofZika and political and economic certainty in parts of the world, according to the survey respondents.

Despite these developments, the profitability picture improved over the previous year, with most hotels registering a net profit in 2016. Seventy-eight percent of respondents reported a net profit, whereas 22percent reported a net loss. Looking ahead, in 2017 more than two-thirds (67 percent) anticipate an increase in revenue, and 56 percent expect a slight improvement in profits.

It was encouraging to note that approximately 55 percent of hotels also increased capital expenditures in 2016, with a quarterof those investing more than 10 percent over what they did in 2015. This is a positive sign and an indication of long-term confidence by Caribbean hoteliers in the industry, reported Comito.

Althoughroom occupancy decreased for just more than half (51 percent) of the reporting hotels, a notable proportion (29 percent)reported an increase in occupancy. More hoteliers are optimistic for 2017, with two-thirds expecting an increase in occupancy.

Despite the fact that average daily room rates were reduced by 45 percent of hotels, as many as 42 percent increased their rates. This year, approximately 55 percent of hoteliers expect to increase ADRs whereas only 15 percent expect downward pressure on rates.

It is important to note that employment levels were maintained by 55 percentof survey respondentsin 2016, whereas only 17 percent reduced staffing levels, anda sizable proportion (28 percent) hired more staff. This pattern is anticipated to continue in 2017.

Despite the mixed results in 2016, hoteliersappear to begenerallyoptimistic about the year ahead.

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Caribbean hoteliers predict positive tourism performance for 2017 - Amsterdam News

St. Lucia Times Online News (press release)

Venezuela promotes trade with Caribbean St. Lucia Times Online News (press release) Press Release:-In light of the cordial nature that characterizes bilateral relations between Venezuela and the Caribbean countries, a delegation spearheaded by Mr. Jesus Faria, Venezuela's Minister for External Commerce and International Trade ...

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Venezuela promotes trade with Caribbean - St. Lucia Times Online News (press release)