Informtainment.com by ORLANDO

As the journey continues....

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 00:37:00 +0000

I have been spending most of time paying attention to stats, and the power of Youtube. The interesting thing about Youtube or Youchube (Jamaican vernacular coined by Ricky Trooper), if you will. I am learning a few things about how to embrace this extension of DancehallSoca which recently started to produced one of many new mini series. I tweeted earlier today saying, "It is also interesting how even when an artist misspells the title of their songs...the fans still search for the correct spelling :)"

What I noticed with our higher viewership videos was the search for correct spelling of words by the audience which yields results. Destra Garcia and Kerwin Dubois "Baddist" is one example. The name of the song is Baddist but if you actually listen to the song you will think the title is "Baddest". Therefore, it was easy to conclude that some would search for the song as "Baddest". What is in a name? Well, as it appears thousands of views and free advertising for the song and the creator of the video....

As the journey continues.....

CMEx PARTNERSHIP WITH NYU TARGETS CARIBBEAN PR PROS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 01:21:00 +0000

The Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) launched a partnership with New York University's top-ranked Public Relations and Corporate Communication program to take media resources and expertise to the communications and public relations sectors of the Caribbean business communities.

Recognizing hard-working PR professionals in most regions do not have enough time to keep up with new developments, CMEx President Bevan Springer asserted the partnership with NYU would "introduce the Caribbean public relations industry to the latest in top notch research to help practitioners promote sustainable tourism development."

He also pointed to the longer term benefits of the program "which provides educational materials we can use in our communities and reference in the future."

Springer worked with NYU's adjunct professor Robert Noltenmeier to design the partnership which will provide educational resources to various public relations practice areas within the hospitality community in the Caribbean.

The program will broadly discuss the current state of the industry, but will focus on three key areas.

The first is a media relations program, overviewing challenges facing public relations practitioners. The program will be led by NYU graduate student Stephanie Dressler, and will cover proactive and reactive media relations strategies from marketing and pitching, to best practices in dealing with media inquiries.

Graduate student Richard Yumang will head the social media conversation which changes rapidly. Yumang will report on the latest brand-building techniques applied through social media strategies, as well as the importance of monitoring social media channels, and determining selective response scenarios.

Rounding out the program, NYU's Patrick Canavan will address the timely topic of crisis communication. The catastrophic earthquake in Haiti and the deadly double disaster wrought by an earthquake tsunami in Japan illustrate how incredibly damaging crises can occur at any time.

Springer contended the management of crisis communication "can alleviate the suffering and aid reconstruction efforts at a time when communication can be chaotic and alarming."

The deadly BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a man-made disaster that will serve as a case study. Canavan will present tools for assessing when it's time to address a crisis. The way a company reacts after a crisis can define them in the future.

The program kick-starts the 10 year anniversary of CMEx, to be held in the Caribbean this fall, with a series of news releases on the importance of public relations practices and follows with substantive presentations.

The materials developed by the team will be available free of charge for Caribbean-based industry professionals.

About NYU PRCC

New York University's master's program in public relations and corporate communication is offered through the School of Continuing and Professional Studies. The academically rigorous program, which was named "PR Program of the Year" by PRWeek in 2009 and 2010, stresses a practitioner-oriented curriculum that focuses on mastering skills in research, strategic planning, written and oral communication, social media, measurement, and ethical leadership. Faculty members are noted scholars and world class practitioners who have led communications practices at some of the largest companies and agencies in the world. For more information on the program, visit www.scps.nyu.edu/mspr.

About The Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx)

CMEx's mission is to support and develop the ability of the media, government, the travel and tourism industry and communities to consider the importance of tourism in sustainable development, while lending a hand to the communities involved by sharing relevant expertise, financial and in-kind assistance.

For additional details, visit www.cmexmedia.org.

CHERRIE ILLIDGE-MCKENNA TO HEAD JAMAICA ARTS BOARD‏

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 14 May 2011 14:32:00 +0000

Cherrie Illidge-McKenna is the new Board Chairman of the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL). Illidge-McKenna, who grew up on the Caribbean island of St. Croix in the United States Virgin Islands, assumes board leadership of one of the leading multi-disciplinary arts centers in southeast Queens, New York.

The center features two of the most impressive arts spaces in New York City - its 45,000 square-foot headquarters visual arts and education center, and the new 400-seat Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC). Illidge-McKenna succeeds Leilani Brown who led the organization admirably through a period of transition and strategic planning over the past two and a half years.

President of Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, F. Carlisle Towery, said: "Cherrie's contributions will position JCAL for its next phase of growth, and we are pleased to have her lead JCAL to greater reach and influence in our partnerships in the exciting revitalization of downtown Jamaica."

The new chairman has held several key management positions with HSBC Bank, including Vice President - Global Transaction Banking, Institutional Sales; Head of Diversity; and Vice President of Commercial e-Business. She has also served as Chief of Staff for American Express' Global Corporate Technologies and as an IT Consultant / Senior Engineer delivering technology solutions to Fortune 100 companies.

Most recently, as a founding director, she opened a new K-8 charter school in Queens and continues to help drive educational reform. Illidge-McKenna is known for championing diversity initiatives and multicultural programs across various corporate, nonprofit and community organizations. She serves on the executive board of Jack and Jill of America - Queens Chapter, and the National Black MBA Association - NY Metro Chapter.

She is also a founding member of The Metropolitan Museum of Art Multicultural Advisory Board and a member of Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn.

Illidge-McKenna has traveled extensively across every continent except Australia and Antarctica, and enjoys returning to both St. Croix and St. Martin/St. Maarten which she also considers home. In addition, she was an Earthwatch Environmental Fellow, where she did field research on crocodiles to help build a sustainable economy in Botswana, Africa.

Illidge-McKenna received an undergraduate degree in Computer Information Systems from Hofstra University and earned her MBA in Marketing and Management from St. John's University Graduate School of Business.

JCAL's Executive Director, Philip Willis, thanked Leilani Brown for her outstanding leadership and stated: "We are fortunate to have someone like Cherrie leading the Board at this pivotal point in our evolution. Like Leilani, she brings to the Board's leadership a unique set of skills and life experiences that will benefit the organization immensely as it addresses the challenges ahead."

Cherrie Illidge-McKenna is married and has two sons.

About Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL)
For almost 40 years, the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL) has served as an arts oasis in a section of New York City where cultural opportunities are extremely limited. Created in 1972 as part of an effort to revitalize Jamaica, JCAL has earned a reputation for inspiring youth to take an interest in the arts, showcasing the talents of up-and-coming local artists and performers, and creating dynamic multicultural programs and workshops that have been embraced by the community. Each year, tens of thousands of visitors of all ages, backgrounds and skill sets pass through its doors to attend classes and workshops, view art exhibitions, attend performances or immerse themselves in an art residency.

For further information, visit www.jcal.org

About Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC)

Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) is a mid-size, multipurpose performance venue housed in a completely renovated 1858 landmark building - the former First Reformed Dutch Church of Jamaica. JPAC is a showcase for local, regional and national artists and performers. This beautiful 400-seat theater is surrounded by stained glass windows giving the space an almost ethereal quality. State-of-the-art lighting and sound systems enhance the experience all the more. JPAC is destined to become one of the premier destination spots in New York City for intimate concerts and other performances. Visit http://www.jamaica-performingartscenter.org for more information.

Silicon Caribe: Do You Take The Online Game Seriously?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 13:47:00 +0000

Cherie Dowdie wrote a piece over at Silicon Caribe which captures the sentiment I share in regards to the "know how" and sometimes unwillingness for those in the Caribbean to see the benefits of online mediums as media:

Excerpt: The presence of social networks have changed the way marketers and marketing functions happen in the entertainment industry. However, the markers of success remain the same – popularity ( fan base) and sales - and the global presence offered by social media networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter presents a golden opportunity that many writers and musicians have exploited to their best advantage. Unfortunately, international artistes seem to be way ahead of their Caribbean counterparts, this is clear if you pay attention to their activities of both on Twitter and Facebook.

In the business of books Caribbean writers use the Facebook and Twitter sites in an intimate way, with the aim being involving readers in their lives by asking questions, sharing anecdotes, posting pictures of travel or of things of paramount interest to the readers For example Kei Miller, with less than a hundred followers on twitter, is a young Jamaican writer living in England who as of recently has been updating his page with notes on his journey throughout the United states. The more popular Colin Channer, who does not have a twitter account, relives his love for the reggae music industry daily, while keeping his fans abreast of the developments with Caribbean and International writers on Facebook – he has less than 1,000 friends. This niche marketing provides a more focused dialogue that is potentially a powerful tool, except both authors have only a small following. Read More

Did it work for you?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 03:19:00 +0000

In the past year, I went full speed ahead with the new platform called Caribbean Lifestyle Media. Along the way I asked myself, did it work the way I intended? It is very important that in the online game, one pay attention to numbers and enjoy the ride. I get excited when I look at the numbers because it is clear that the model is working and now is the time to leverage those numbers.

In 2009, I made it public that we would start to compete with two new websites DSoca.com and iDancehallReggae.com and we have done just that. 2011 should be an exciting year.

DAVID THOMPSON WAS A CHAMPION OF ENTREPRENEURS AND SMALL BUSINESS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:14:00 +0000

The passing of Barbados Prime Minister David Thompson is a loss for the government and people of Barbados, but his passing is being taken particularly hard by the nation's entrepreneurs and small businessmen and women.

"A great Caribbean leader has gone," lamented Barbadian businessman Dr. Basil Springer who heads the Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust (CBET) and Bimventures family of local entrepreneurs.

"Prime Minister David Thompson was a true West Indian visionary who embraced change and fully understood that Barbados' social and economic success was dependent on a policy which supported small business development and healthy small enterprises," he said.

Dr. Springer, who designed the CBET Shepherding Model™ with the support of the Caribbean Development Bank, and who leads a project which currently guides 10 local businesses, said this was possible because Prime Minister Thompson was key to CBET joining forces with the Barbados Government and the private sector to provide quick response revolving seed and venture capital to businesses with the potential for phenomenal growth. Some 50 businesses are now waiting in the pipeline due to the success of the programme.

"Our late Prime Minister recognized the value of the mentor-protégé relationship as a necessary condition for receiving funding and for business success," said Dr. Springer, who added the Bimventures executive and family members were committed to honoring the legacy of the 48 year-old visionary statesman.

"While gone too soon, he has left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial terrain in Barbados - and we are no doubt better for it. Blessings and strength to his wife and family. May he rest in peace and may his successors triumphantly emulate him," said Dr. Springer.

About Barbados Business Enterprise Corp.
Barbados Business Enterprise Corp. (BBEC) is a public/private sector partnership with the Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust (CBET) Inc. BBEC manages the Barbados Revolving Seed Capital Fund and the Barbados Entrepreneurs' Venture Capital Fund. BBEC is a virtual organisation that focuses on promoting economic development in Barbados. The trustees of BBEC are respected Barbadian business and development experts, Sir Neville Nicholls (Chairman), Sir Stephen Emtage, Peter Boos and Hazel Highland.
For further information, visit www.bimventures.com

STAGE SET FOR JAMAICA'S HOSTING OF CMEx CONFERENCE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 22:45:00 +0000

Jamaica's capital city, Kingston, is set to host the 19th staging of the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) on Sustainable Tourism. The conference, which takes place from September 30 to October 4, 2010, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel will explore the theme "Tourism: Linkages for Growth." Over the four days, delegates will examine the economic impact of tourism on development and assess the extent to which tourism stimulates other sectors of the economy.

Organizers of this popular regional media and tourism gathering have indicated that the upcoming edition of CMEx which target journalists, editors and young leaders from the Caribbean, North America and Europe as well as development specialists and representatives of the hospitality, civil society and government sectors is shaping up to be one of the most exciting. A number of interesting panel discussions aimed at addressing linkages between the various sectors will be held. These include: faith based tourism, culture and cuisine - exploring the links with agriculture as well as tourism and education.

The conference gets underway on Friday, October 1 after a welcome reception on Thursday, September 30 at the Spanish Court Hotel. On Saturday, October 2, delegates will tour Kingston and participate in community outreach activities at Maxfield Park Children's Home as well as Kintyre Basic School. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett will deliver the keynote address during lunch on Sunday, October 3 which will be followed by the closing dinner later that evening.
"We are excited to learn of the interest that the Kingston edition of CMEx has generated and look forward to the stimulating discussions which will ensue due to the lively and thought-provoking exchange of ideas," said John Lynch, Director of Tourism and Chairman of the Jamaica Tourist Board who will open the conference on Friday, October 1. "We thank our tourism and media partners for their participation as we seek to chart the best way forward for tourism in the region."

Conference planners have put together an interesting mix of panels and speakers to ensure all delegates attending CMEx XIX have a memorable and rewarding experience. "We are most encouraged by the support we have received throughout the Caribbean for CMEx and the region's sustainable tourism agenda. We look forward to solution-oriented deliberations and to making a positive contribution in local communities during our visit to Jamaica," said Bevan Springer, President of the Caribbean Media Exchange.

Since 2001, the (CMEx) has produced 18 conferences and symposia throughout the Caribbean and North America to underscore the value of the region's largest industry, tourism, in improving the health, education, culture, environment and wealth of Caribbean communities, at home and abroad, in a sustainable fashion.
The upcoming CMEx meeting is supported by the Jamaica Tourist Board and Jamaica's Ministry of Tourism. Additional contributors include: Air Jamaica/Caribbean Airlines, Altamont Court Hotel, American Airlines, Anse Chastanet Resort, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Barbara Pyle Foundation, Bay Gardens Resorts, British Virgin Islands Tourist Board, Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust, Caribbean Broadcasting Union, Caribbean Tourism Organization, CaribWorldNews, Choice Hotels International, Coco Palm, Community Benefit Development, Courtleigh Hotel & Suites, 4P Group, Jade Mountain, Knutsford Court Hotel, LIAT, Marketplace Excellence, Mayberry Investments Ltd., michael D. communications, RIU Hotels & Resorts, Ruder Finn, Saint Lucia Tourist Board, Scotchies Tree, Spanish Court Hotel, Spirit Airlines, SuperClubs, Strawberry Hill, St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF), The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Tourism Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, Wyndham Kingston Jamaica and The SpeakEasy M.E.D.I.A. Foundation.

About the Jamaica Tourist Board
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB was declared the Caribbean's Leading Tourist and Convention Bureau by the World Travel Awards (WTA) from 2006 to 2009, while Jamaica earned the WTA's vote as the World's Leading Cruise Destination, the Caribbean's Leading Destination and the Caribbean's Leading Cruise Destination, for the third consecutive year.

JTB offices are located in Kingston, Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Düsseldorf, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam and Tokyo.

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB's Web site at www.visitjamaica.com, Follow the JTB on Facebook at www.facebook.com/visitjamaica, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/visitjamaicanow or on YouTube at www.youtube.com/aboutjamaicajtb.

New website “Chatfolks.com” takes Caribbean social networking scene by storm

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 11:35:00 +0000

The latest buzz among Caribbean nationals, Caribbean enthusiasts and fans of all things internet is the new social networking community Chatfolks.com. Since its recent launch at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad, this dynamic, innovative web portal has left an impression both off and online.

Conceptualized by Sean Roach and co-developed by Roach and Miguel Carrillo, Chatfolks aims to connect Caribbean people within the region and the global diaspora while providing a platform for showcasing the vibrancy of Caribbean life to the entire world. As the website’s name suggests, it gives all of its users the opportunity to not only chat on personal and current events occurring in the Caribbean community but also to discuss topics of interest that are common to all of its people such as its unique but shared culture, music, entertainment, events, sports, style and fashion.

When asked about what makes this new website stand out in this competitive market, Roach stated, “Unlike other social networking websites and even other Caribbean websites, Chatfolks combines the informative aspect with the social aspect. It connects, unifies and informs across a range of categories”.

He also emphasized that the website appeals to individuals with and without any Caribbean background or heritage and it aspires to give the globe a true taste of the Caribbean.

This fresh online experience incorporates several of the beloved features which social network aficionados have grown to know and love including blogs, picture and album sharing, personal mail, event posting and group creation. The site also offers online gaming, quizzes, birthday reminders, activity areas, free job postings and of course several facets of chatting.

In addition to being an open and interactive medium which gives its members a high level of control e.g. the ability to customize their profile pages as well as the site’s homepage, the majority of Chatfolks’ content will be generated from its users. The ‘chatters’ are encouraged to contribute to the chat via comments, blogs, forums, polls and shout boxes on a variety of subject matters pertinent to the Caribbean.

Most notably, together with the traditional chat pop up box, Chatfolks users will also be able to benefit from its video chat feature which consists of both a ‘one to one’ and ‘many to many’ user option. This particular feature has been embraced by the masses as it now gives them the opportunity to communicate in a visual format.

At the recent U.W.I Life extravaganza, Chatfolks made its debut with a massive booth draped in its Orange and Blue theme colours and featured displays by its corporate partners Langston Roach Industries Ltd. and E City. The campus population came out in large numbers to learn about and sign up for the latest social networking website via the onsite laptop stations while they also welcomed and appreciated the complimentary ‘Chatfolks’ memorabilia.

One excited student said, “Chatfolks is a really cool idea and I believe it has the propensity to surpass the popularity of Facebook in the Caribbean market”.

Another recently registered male student shared, “I think that a huge number of people from around the islands will lock onto this website, especially because of its video chat capability. Also I think it will really do well because it is created by Caribbean people for Caribbean people”.

Chatfolks.com’s impactful start is indeed evident as it has already attracted several young, urban professionals and even Caribbean entertainment personalities. Already recognized by many as an excellent medium for fostering tourism in the region and promoting interest for Caribbean brands, cultures, festivals and creative entities, it is also viewed as the best medium to chat and share experiences with Caribbean communities.

The website which is Caribbean owned, Caribbean operated and Caribbean centered is indeed positioned to flourish and its diligent team promises to continuously develop new features and site updates en route to its becoming a top ranking world-wide web outlet.

For more information and to sign up for “Chatfolks.com”:

THE BAHAMAS SUPPORTS CMEx KINGSTON TALKS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:03:00 +0000

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism has announced its sponsorship of the Caribbean Media Exchange on Sustainable Tourism (CMEx), slated for the Jamaican capital of Kingston from September 30 to October 4, 2010.

"It's wonderful to be recognized in this way by the Ministry, led by Minister of Tourism Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, one of the region's visionaries whose eloquence on the benefits of sustainable tourism for individuals as well as for companies and governments is respected far beyond the Caribbean region," said Lelei LeLaulu, who currently serves as vice president of the nonprofit organization.

"We are particularly delighted to have both Bahamas' and Minister Vanderpool-Wallace's very strong support for the Kingston meetings which will look at one of the Minister's priorities - the teaching of tourism to our youth and the importance of educating people throughout our Caribbean communities," he added.

According to Dr. Basil Springer, a member of the CMEx Board of Directors, the Harvard University-educated Vanderpool-Wallace "is known as a bold and creative thinker who is unafraid to consider innovative approaches to keep the Bahamas at the cutting edge of tourism destinations." The Bahamas has previously hosted two CMEx interactive dialogues.

In Kingston, journalists, editors and young leaders from the Caribbean, North America and Europe as well as development specialists and representatives of the hospitality, civil society and government sectors will interact over the four days to explore the theme: "Tourism: Linkages for Growth."

Delegates will examine how tourism intersects and contributes to the development of other sectors like manufacturing, food, agricultural and enterprise development. The role of the region's preeminent academic institutions will also be featured.

The upcoming CMEx, to be held at The Jamaica Pegasus and partnering hotels in Kingston, will again have a strong focus on the Caribbean Diaspora and Faith Tourism as key contributors to Caribbean sustainable development.

Since 2001, CMEx has produced 18 conferences and networking symposia throughout the Caribbean and North America to underscore the value of the region's largest industry, tourism, in improving the health, education, culture, environment and wealth of Caribbean communities, both at home and abroad, in a sustainable and climate friendly fashion.

The upcoming CMEx meeting is supported by the Jamaica Tourist Board, Jamaica's Ministry of Tourism, and The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. Additional contributors include: Anse Chastanet Resort, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Barbara Pyle Foundation, Bay Gardens Resorts, Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust, Caribbean Broadcasting Union, CaribWorldNews, Coco Palm, Community Benefit Development, 4P Group, Jade Mountain, Marketplace Excellence, Michael D. Communications, Ruder Finn, Spirit Airlines, and The SpeakEasy M.E.D.I.A. Foundation.

Caribbean Brand Recognition: Sharing is Caring...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:40:00 +0000

The term "sharing is caring", can be taken many ways. For the purpose of this post, "sharing is caring" relates to building brand awareness through content sharing. To attempt to protect your content can take a lot of valuable time to police. I have a different perspective which embraces the mantra, "sharing is caring". I generally ask that those who use our content create a link back to the original source. Our content creates brand awareness. This is one of the most important task with spreading a viral message while increasing the reach of your brand . It is important because the very nature of the web/internet is that information is distributed and re-distributed. This creates platforms of authority and trusted sources. Brand awareness is implicit in this process. In the past, I have seen YouTube videos with over a million views but no brand has leverage those numbers. In other words the video is of some kid doing some neat trick that everyone loves but that is it-It is a viral video with nothing attached. The Old Spice commercials have taken the viral video concept and leveraged it for millions to see their product.

Those who use our content from any of our websites are brand ambassadors-when it is an exchange and when recognition of where information was received is noted. Content producers are best served when collaborating with other websites who can introduce your brand to others. Visit Huffington Post, CNN, TheRoot and you will notice they are link to other websites with their own content. The back-end of this exchange can take a variety of forms-paid, content exchange, profit sharing, etc. The reader continues to return because the steady stream of content continues to be attractive.

If someone shares your content, this means they like it. If they re-post your content, this means they appreciate it. They cared enough to click that ReTweet, share, download, subscribe button. It should all appreciate.

Reggae.com up for Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:10:00 +0000

The owners of Reggae.com have announced for the first time in its history, the top category music and lifestyle domain name REGGAE.com is on the auction block at the live auction conducted by Moniker® and SnapNames® at the DOMAINFest® One-Day Power Networking Event on Wednesday, August 18 at The Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York, NY. Live Bidding Begins Wednesday, August 18 at 4:00 pm ET.

The domain name is appealing to potential buyers due to the expected expansion of music sales on the internet, as well as the fact that reggae is a “lifestyle” concept as much as a popular music genre. According to a 2010 eMarketer study, “US consumer spending on digital music will increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.04% in the next four years, reaching $4.56 billion in 2013, up from $3 billion in 2009.”

Furthermore, the continuing influence of reggae music was clearly demonstrated by the June 8 release of “The Disney Reggae Club”. The Disney CD’s executive producer Brian Malouf stated, "Reggae is so joyous and spirited, we knew these songs would lend themselves perfectly.” REGGAE.com was a promotional partner for the release.

Information on the auction, including details on how to bid either in person or remotely, is available at www.moniker.com/dfauction. Interested buyers can contact Howard Kopp at howard(at)moniker.com, or by phone at (800) 688-6311 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (800) 688-6311 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, ext. 3505.

I USE MY LIKE BUTTON SPARINGLY...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 02:02:00 +0000

In September 2009, I wrote a post about my perception of what web 3.0 will be about. In that post I wrote, "The businesses who fail to share; fail to build a brand in today's market."

What does this all mean? Each time I use my "Like" button, I have personalized my web interaction and let everyone know what I just read. For brands, this is great, if you have as many friends as we do over at Facebook, you can imagine that we use that button sparingly.

With that said, this simple button is a glimpse into what we should expect from Web 3.0. The ability to advertise your product and services through our Tribes will create more opportunity than we can imagine.

TIME...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 17:14:00 +0000

We often hear the term, "time is money", we conjure up a a perspective which relates to the thought process that we should be making money for our valuable time. While making money from your time is one thing we talk about all the time. Time is useful for many aspect of our life, time is an important dimension and most often the one we forget even exists. Time cannot be created by you or I, but it can be wasted or be utilized properly to enhance our current experience. This experience is usually measurable by how we utilize TIME to master the details of our lives.

Time is our most valuable resource because we are allotted a set amount and the only way to properly utilize this valuable resource is to use it well. I recently had a conversation with one of the Caribbean's top producers Kamau Georges who share similar reading and interest as I do. We had previous conversations about meeting but was not able to until the perfect coincidence (read Deepak Chopra Book of Secrets) of many different circumstances allowing this meeting to happen. As a result, we were able to discuss information we may have never discussed had we met in previous attempts. I used this as an example to illustrate that things happen within its TIME, it can never be forced, it can only be mastered based on how we approach our use of TIME.

Seth Godin's Linchpin and 4 Hour workweek were two books we discussed. Read them and apply (execute) them in order to master how you approach and work with TIME.

Owning your space...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:40:00 +0000

There is nothing better than having your own space. Whether this space is mental or physical, it is important to identify it as yours. At times we may share this space with others to enage in conversation, learn, or teach. If this space is physical, it may be your first house. It is yours to be you. It is yours to enjoy and experience as you wish.

Enjoy owing your space....whether mental or physical. It is yours....:)

I created a website, now what?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:43:00 +0000

The online marketplace has been undergoing a drastic change. Many new players but few who have studied and applied the strategies it will take to market their website/domain properly. Are you creating a website to earn money? Are you creating a website to provide a service? Are you the next online media? How will you sustain over a long period of time?

All essential questions, if you don't ask,you might be wasting your time. I would say begin here and here. Without the essentials, formulating your strategy/plan of action will meet a dead end.

Caribbean Music: Why your music gets lost

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 13:21:00 +0000

I get an enormous amount of music on a weekly basis. While we have a method of sifting through new music. I noticed that artistes work against themselves when they submit music to media sites. It is a waste of your valuable time to send music without a press release/promo pics/bio. With that said, if you don't submit any of the essentials it goes like this: We get the music, download and rarely listen-music ends up in a folder somewhere.

The situation you would like to create: Give yourself and your music personality in order to be published. I think all new Caribbean music release should be accompanied by a press release/promo pics/ and bio. Bloggers/online media like information that they can draw from. If you send just a song, we may like it or pass over it. With additional information to your music we have something to publish. I am not sure if you have noticed, online media has a growing audience-they push your music when it is discussed and published. Most Bloggers/online media will not just publish a song with any background information. Add some spice to your new releases, it is all a part of proper presentation anyways.

Publicists can assist with this process, check out some of the people I work with IceyJace, Rhona Fox, Damian Sogren, and Darling Nicky. I hope this helps..:)

Caribbean Content Producers: Getting to #1 on Search Engines

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 01:15:00 +0000

My recent conversation on twitter reinforced an overall strategy for my company. Getting a 1-10 listing on Google/Yahoo for a variety keywords and phrases are important for my business-this is essential for original content producers who want to be seen as an authority.

I discussed in previous posts the importance of building authority for celebrities, brands, and online growth. Authority is the number 1 undertaking in order to ensure a 1-10 spot on search engines. Most surfers who use any of the big search engines like Bing, Google, and yahoo will most likely click the page results ranging from 1-10. Getting to the 1-10 position has always been about the content. The content will need to be consistent, original, and structured with proper feed management.

Social Media is the perfect catalyst for this process. Facebook and Twitter will speed up your backlinks profile, while providing exposure to a small,motivated audience. Your motivated audience is your key to the explosion in growth to reach the top page of the search engine game. This is in turn leads to generation of revenue from an increase in traffic (If you are properly monetized).

Original Content

Most of what you read on iDancehallReggae.com or DSoca.com has been work done with publicits/record companies/artiste to craft information they would like to see released. Lazy content producers may take information and re-post. Others will re-post and give credit to the original source (great for original content producer). There are two things at work, the websites who give credit to you will edify you as the source. The search engine will begin to see that you are the source of information. This process can take time, however, if your goal is to become number 1, this process needs to continue without digression.

Feed Management

Friend Feed is an excellent tool for publishing to information to social media like Facebook. It is a distribution method which enables brands to work smarter. It can be linked to youtube, Twitter, and Facebook. Feed Management comes into play because as a brand builder internet readers can easily share and interlink stories. In other words if your website is not number 1 for a term, your feeds maybe. This links back to your website.

I hope this is helpful in terms of how to gain momentum and leverage of your online Caribbean brand. The X Factor is consistency and smart work (Maximizing your potential through maximum mental effort).

Execution is the only way to learn

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 15 May 2010 17:27:00 +0000

I spent the last six months learning and soaking up the information about how to properly run my domains as separate online businesses. The key factor in this process is: the ability to execute, test, learn and optimize for better performance. It is full time and constant. It is the mundane aspect of doing business online-unless you enjoy it like I do.

As I worked tirelessly to build the platform of IdancehallReggae.com over the past year, I am beginning to see a positive emergence of my doing. I made the decision to shift focus and bring on team members who share similar goals with their business. Why not hire them? Outsource what others do better and create deep meaningful relationships that create opportunities for my company, as well as others.

I promoted others as much as I promote my company, this has been more enriching than anything else. As I continue on with this process, the goal is to be consistent with a phase 1 plan which will take 10 years-keep overhead low, create a platform for Caribbean Lifestyle, pay attention, grow, and learn.

I am not sure how else to pass this on but the only thing I ever learned from, was the experience of my execution, failures, and ultimate success.

Caribbean: The Art of Building Authority

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 15:20:00 +0000

Easy access to blogging technology in the Caribbean community has led to an increase Caribbean bloggers'. As we have seen in the past, as a new technology explodes, some exploit the technology for a little while, others mastery it. In order to master blogging, building authority is necessary. In my prior blog post, I discussed building authority online. The challenge for many is the ability to create relationships, provide a service or create value through the art of building authority.

The same traditional values of foot work or in this case, making contact using social media, phone calls, and networking are still necessary. The art of building authority starts with sharing and not controlling. The fact that a person may want to control what they know, is not valuable to others. Persons will move on when they feel like they have nothing to learn from you. Here are a few steps to the art of building authority using social media, branding through traditional and non-traditional networking.

1. Create Deep,Meaningful Relationships.

Relationships are the primary goal of any person trying to build authority. I look at every new Social Media as a tool to connect, network, get to know others. Without the right relationships, the further you will be from the sources of information. In order to create deep, meaningful relationships. It has to be reciprocal. The person has to be getting something from you, the authority builder. DJ's are a great example of this, If a popular DJ plays an artiste music, then it is only right that the artiste return the favor by doing a show, doing dubs or drops, etc. The relationship is deep because they need each other. It is meaningful because they both benefit from the relationship.

2. Create Networks

Networking is not the same thing as "creating networks". There are a variety of ways to create networks. In the Caribbean community, it is useful to connect with people at different ends of the success ladder. The person who is already established in their area of expertise maybe looking for apprentices. Pass it on, this is how authority works. I always tell anyone I give information, pass it on and encourage the person to do the same. Deep networking encourages relationships that can further flourish into partnership, business deals, etc.

3. Have a Historical Perspective

In today's society we are fascinated with the new. However, the old or vintage has the most value. Many ideas, books, and music currently being listened to or promoted is plenty today, but they will eventually be considered old. If you archive information, you are the holder of that information or product, etc. This is value, supply is low and demand is high (101).

The historical perspective is also valuable for teaching. The teacher is inherently an authority in their area of expertise. Understand the history of whatever you are dealing with.

4. Who has been successful

It is easy to forget the pioneers of the field. Whether or not it is music, business, media. Knowing a little about who has been successful and what they have done can go a long way to encourage and provide insight to others. For example, I am an avid reader of books-from religion to business. I have not read everything, however, when I speak about what I know. I have a compelling story and can refer to books or information that others may find useful.

Barbados: HELP LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 04:02:00 +0000

On February 19 and 20 at the Barbados Yacht Club, the Barbados Entrepreneurs' Venture Capital Fund held its first Shepherding Training Programme designed to nurture a new crop of potential "shepherds," business mentors to tend a flock of local entrepreneurs. The course gave them a comprehensive introduction to the CBET Shepherding Model™ - intended to pull the wool off entrepreneurs' eyes.

Designed to educate new shepherds on the processes, skills and characteristics necessary for shepherding entrepreneurs to success, the programme featured a dynamic line-up of presenters that included current business advisors, shepherds, entrepreneurs and leadership expert Toney Olton of The Potter Centre in Barbados.

Drawing on presenters who were already a part of the process, participants heard real case studies and examples from those who had already lived through it. The interactive sessions allowed them to clarify misconceptions as well as offer insights on how they thought they could enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

"The Shepherding Training Programme exceeded my expectations," said Gregory Hinkson, founder of consulting firm SAMDOR Services Ltd. and one of the keen potential new shepherds. "It was an excellent programme that was varied, lively, interesting and beneficial and a must for anyone seeking to become an entrepreneur's shepherd."

Dr. Basil Springer, Project Manager for Barbados Business Enterprise Corp. (BBEC), the company that manages the Fund, noted that shepherding was an essential component of The CBET Shepherding Model™ and it was therefore imperative that new mentors should learn about the process.

The CBET Shepherding model is based on three principles which work in tandem for successful entrepreneurship: a business concept that has the "DNA of an elephant" i.e. an idea with the potential for global expansion; timely cash advancements and quick response to investment requests; and a shepherd, supported by a team of business advisors, to help the entrepreneur nurture the business idea into a successful reality.

The model has been well-received by Prime Minister of Barbados, David Thompson, who announced in November 2009 that the Barbados Government would guarantee the principal amount invested in the Venture Capital Fund.

"It was a truly invigorating experience participating with the existing and potential resources of the BBEC team in interactive dialogue over two days," said Dr. Springer.

"The spiritual energy of the smart partnership philosophy is a primary ingredient in the foundation of the Model: this energy pervades the space to create one win-win outcome after another," he added.

About Barbados Business Enterprise Corp.

Barbados Business Enterprise Corp. (BBEC) is a public/private sector partnership with the Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust (CBET) Inc. BBEC manages the Barbados Revolving Seed Capital Fund and the Barbados Entrepreneurs' Venture Capital Fund. BBEC is a virtual organisation that focuses on promoting economic development in Barbados. The trustees of BBEC are respected Barbadian business and development experts, Sir Neville Nicholls (Chairman), Sir Stephen Emtage, Peter Boos and Hazel Highland.

For further information, visit www.bimventures.com.

COMPLETE YOUR CYCLES OF ACTION

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:31:00 +0000

In any endeavor, the starting of a task is a good thing. However, the continuation and completion of that task is even more important. Cycles of Action can be best described as a complex system of starts and endings-decision making and execution. In everything we do, the process is what we learn from the most. If you start something and never finish, you have created a cycle which is incomplete. Can you imagine having years of cycles that were never completed? I would imagine you may start to feel unsuccessful or unaccomplished.

The completing of each cycle you start enhances your self esteem, self worth, and success. If you start something, complete it. If you do not complete it, and you really wanted to get it done, it will weight on you for a long time.

Create small successful-completed cycles of action and inevitable you will create large-completed cycles of action.

Caribbean Brands: Who do you pay attention to?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 18:48:00 +0000

Are you an online Caribbean business? Would you consider your ideas and execution of those concepts viable to your online growth? In the current climate, having less can actually mean having more. This insight can produce rewards and develop relationships that can propel your online Caribbean business into being a well known brand.

With little capital to invest like the major online brands, I use a strategy which is based on a simple but proven technique. This is not something I developed, I only observed the process and then applied it to my situation. People naturally group themselves into categories, I will assign these as : On Lookers, Users, and Supporters.

On Lookers

They are aware that you are there. They see your brand online, they have used your services, However, they are not engaged with you or your business. I like to think of these people as followers in a sense. They need to hear what others have to say before they step in and engage with your online company or become a active member. I do not think that this is a bad thing and we can all be in this group at one point or another.

Users

I was once told, if you cannot be used, you are useless. This is a concept which sounds harsh, however, if you peel back the layers, it is easy to see why you would want people to use your online services, read articles, and interact with your content. Why? Because those interested see a way that your business is useful to them. Users in this sense, clearly point to a customer base whom may just get what they want from you and then move on or may return when they would like something else.

Supporters

The most important of the three to any online Caribbean medium. Supporters are engaged with your growth and process. They truly believe in what you are doing. This group always retweet, send your link to others, they talk about your product to others. This group deserves the most attention because they are your base. These are the people you respond to on twitter, Facebook. They deserve your time and energy. These people will account for 80% of the viewership, and referrals.

Slow and steady win the marathon, who ever you pay attention will be where all your energy is spent. If you choose to spend a great deal of energy on Users or Onlookers, I believe you are wasting your valuable time. When most of your energy is spent with your supporters, then you encourage deep meaningful connections that will enhance their experience and bring in more supporters.

CMEX-Haiti has an Opportunity

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 13:42:00 +0000

The Caribbean Media Exchange on Sustainable Tourism (CMEx), which promotes sustainable tourism development among media practitioners and industry tourism stakeholders, believes that this week's deadly earthquake in Port-au-Prince is an opportunity for Caribbean countries to find innovative ways to help the survivors put their lives back together.

"The richer countries and international organizations are best equipped to deal with the urgent need for cash, medicines and earth-moving machinery," but CMEx director Lelei LeLaulu urged the "family of Caribbean nations to use their strengths to help Haiti re-build a stronger nation driven by a dynamic and resilient economy."

"The strength of the Caribbean is centered on tourism so the region should look for ways of using tourism to feed resources not only to the devastated areas, but also to communities in other parts of Haiti," he added.

"Effective recovery requires helping all parts of the country," opined LeLaulu, who recalled "Haiti was already suffering from an economic catastrophe before the earthquake leveled its capital. This is a golden opportunity for the region to step up and ensure its stricken sister nation is able to rise and to be an equal partner in the Caribbean community of nations."

The earthquake hit just as Haiti was starting to emerge from lawlessness and other social problems, and was beginning to attract visitors. Hotel groups like Choice Hotels International were preparing to add new properties on the island.

The U.S. State Department is urging Americans to avoid travel to Haiti but the CMEx director strongly suggested "everybody should make future plans to travel to Haiti, not to get in the way of relief and reconstruction efforts, but to spend their tourist dollars in ways which help people and their communities ensure the recovery is a lasting one. The rich cultural heritage will make it an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors to Haiti."

Dr. Basil Springer, a CMEx founder and director declared, "Haiti's crisis provides an opportunity to lay a strong foundation on which to reduce the wealth divide; the regional and international travel and tourism community must also help to restore the glory of a nation to which we as Caribbean people will always be indebted in the struggle for independence.We must all urgently rally around and support the Haitian people in their thrust for socio-economic independence. Today, we are all Haitian."

"And, this is not a new nation - Haiti is the first independent black republic and indeed the second independent state in the Americas," he asserted.

CMEx provides a neutral platform for the continuing discussion of the key linkages between media, government, private sector and civil society in ensuring tourism enhances the health, environment, education, culture, and wealth of destinations in a climate-friendly fashion.

STING: Online Concert Access?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 04:00:00 +0000

The online presence for Sting has clearly taken a turn for the better. Sting Jamaica introduced online access to the famous Sting concert-a staple in Dancehall Reggae community worldwide, can now be accessed via online. I began updating on my twitter account stating that the live show will be able to viewed live for a cost (disclaimer-I am not affiliated with Sting). At last count, there were 2,373 online and at $50USD each, that is potential revenues of $118,650USD or $10, 679,500 JMD. Not bad for exclusive access to STING.

By 11:00pm on December, 26th; the registered website www.StingJamaica.com.jm was being listed as an attack site. I am not sure if the site was hacked but clearly something happened over the past few hrs. Jamaicalivetv.com picked up the slack and the site was redirected.

I am sure we will begin to see other major concerts offering this option for those in the diaspora or those not able to make the show. I have in a mind a variety of concerts that may benefit and may have the potential to earn additional revenues by creating online access-Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival, Fully Loaded, Champions in Action. I do think the $50 USD cost is fair. I hope the Sting promoters are successful with this new online venture because once the dollars makes sense, we will see an increase in access for concerts across the Caribbean.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 10:25:00 +0000

I wanted to take the time to publicly thank the Caribbean Lifestyle Media-DancehallSoca.com team.

Damian Sogren-Sonique Solutions-writer/Trinidad & Tobago

Carol Edwards-Lorac Photography/Guyana

Cosmo Tee-Photographer/Jamaica

Keisha Thomas-writer/Antigua & Barbuda

Darling Nicky-Toronto writer/Trinidad & Jamaica

Chris Campbell-Icey Jace Film Factory/Jamaica

To you and your family from all of us...MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

A Gift you, download Parang Mix