The Perfect Sunglasses for a Day in the Caribbean

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February 12, 2024

The Perfect Sunglasses for a Day in the Caribbean

When traveling to the Caribbean, there’s no better way to spend your time than enjoying the sunny beaches, idyllic islands and turquoise waves. While enjoying the Caribbean sun in style is great, it’s important to prioritize your health and safety. Last summer, the Caribbean islands were met with record-breaking heat stress, with tropical Pacific and Atlantic Ocean temperatures remaining well above average. This amplified the Caribbean heat stress by increasing temperatures, humidity and heatwave frequency, surpassing numbers from previous years.

As a result, the Caribbean Climate Outlook Newsletter forecasted uncomfortably high temperatures for night and daytime, with temperatures likely to end up even higher than usual during the second half of the annual Heat Season 2023-24. Experts believed the humidity and frequency of heatwaves may have rivaled that of the record-hot years 2010, 2016, and 2020.

While getting your share of Vitamin D from a day in the sun can be healthy, it’s essential to prioritize sun protection for your eyes. Overexposure to UV rays from the sun can cause dizziness and headaches and may lead to eye conditions in the long term. Aside from wearing heat-appropriate attire, a decent pair of sunglasses can help provide much-needed UV protection while ensuring your beach pics remain fashion-forward.

Colorful sunglasses

The Caribbean is home to vibrant colors. Visitors can see playful colors as part of the region’s fashion, food and cultural events. As such, a pair of colorful sunglasses from brands like Oakley can help spice up your day in the sun while still providing ample protection. Oakley models like the Holbrook and Sutro come in various colorways, including Prizm Road Jade for a green-purple radiant and Prizm Ruby for a bold dash of orange-red.

Oakley’s line of sunglasses also comes with useful and protective features like photochromic lenses if you plan on keeping your shades on indoors, and are durable while prioritizing all-day comfort so you can enjoy your outdoor and water activities in the Caribbean without worrying.

Glitter sunglasses

Aside from incorporating colors into your sun protection, you can pair your swimsuit or beachwear with glitter sunglasses. This will add a touch of sparkle to your Caribbean ensemble, helping you stand out in pics as the Caribbean sunlight adds golden glints onto your glittered frames.

In a previous post, we highlighted a golden-laced glitter dress from the self-named brand J. Angelique. The Selene is made entirely out of ornate glitter lace and would pair nicely with glitter sunnies for both daytime and night beach outings. Of course, all that glitters is not gold, so you can opt for other colorways to match other outfits, including pink glitter or silver and faux diamonds for extra bling.

Oversized lenses

Finally, you may also want to consider wearing sunglasses with oversized lenses. While lens sizes shrunk in the 80s and 90s, the early 2000s gave birth to a retro-inspired era of oversized sunglasses — these range from large oval and circular lenses to more squarish and angular ones. Either way, they usually take up most of your facial features, which is great if you want maximum sun protection for your eyes.

To spruce up your Caribbean beach day, you can opt for looks inspired by Rihanna’s Fenty sunglasses line for a fashionable take on sun protection. Alternatively, you can draw from 70s icons like Brigitte Bardot and Twiggy. Even eyewear fashion enthusiast Joan Didion was a lover of oversized lenses, scoring a Céline campaign at 80.

The Best Places in Florida To Experience Caribbean Culture

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Emma Radebaugh

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February 8, 2024

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If you want a destination that offers a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the United States, look no further than sunny Florida. With its vibrant Caribbean population, there are numerous places in Florida to experience Caribbean culture. Whether you’re interested in Cuban cuisine in Miami or Bahamian heritage in Key West, there’s something for everyone in Florida.

Miami

Miami is the perfect place to start your Caribbean cultural journey. Known for its Cuban influence, Miami also boasts a large population of Bahamians, Jamaicans and Haitians. Take a stroll down Calle Ocho in Little Havana to experience lively Latin music, street performers and some of the best Cuban cuisine in the country.

Visit the Little Haiti Cultural Complex to experience Haitian music, dance and art. Experience these and many other places, such as the Miami Design District, on your road trip to Miami and Southern Florida and make wonderful memories of artistic and cultural scenes.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem for those seeking Caribbean culture. Head to Sistrunk Boulevard, named after Dr. James Sistrunk, the first black physician in Broward County, where you’ll find the heart of the city’s Caribbean community.

The area hosts festivals celebrating Caribbean culture, including block parties and art shows. There are also restaurants like Jerk Machine and Aunt I’s Jamaican Kitchen, which offer wonderful Caribbean cuisine.

Key West

Key West may be tiny, but it packs a punch regarding Caribbean culture. One of the best places in Florida to experience Caribbean culture is the Bahama Village neighborhood.

Visit the area to taste Bahamian heritage, with colorful homes and street vendors selling conch fritters and other Caribbean delicacies. Don’t miss out on the Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the author’s love of Key West and his friendships with Bahamian immigrants.

Tampa

Tampa has a large population of Caribbean people, particularly from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. Visit the annual Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival to experience Caribbean music, dance and food, or check out the Caribbean-inspired murals at the Ybor City district. Don’t forget to sample the jerk chicken at Jazzy’s BBQ, one of Tampa’s best Caribbean restaurants.

Orlando

Orlando is a great place to experience Caribbean culture. Visit the African Caribbean Marketplace in the heart of Orlando’s Parramore neighborhood to experience the sights and sounds of the Caribbean. Take a look at Bob Marley’s former home, now a museum, or attend one of Orlando’s Caribbean festivals for live music, dancing and Jamaican cuisine.

5 Questions with the Bahamian Fashion Designer Behind Roman Kandle

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Guest Admin

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February 7, 2024

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Roman Kandle, a South Florida menswear line founded by Bahamian fashion designer Denis Kersaint, embodies the fusion of casual and formal wear as a mid-luxury brand suitable for all occasions. Inspired by the ethos that “Fashion is Art,” Roman Kandle encourages individuals to express their creativity through vibrant tropical prints and colors. The brand captures the authentic South Florida vibe, reflecting the region’s diverse culture and environment through a rich array of multi-colored combinations and prints. From day to night, Roman Kandle offers comfortable yet stylish options that cater to every unique style, bridging the gap between casual relaxation and formal elegance.

With its sun-drenched hues and bright colors mirroring the South Florida landscape, Roman Kandle fulfills the longstanding need for genuine South Florida clothing. It appeals to the fashion-forward everyday man, providing a versatile wardrobe from casual slacks and polo shirts for daytime outings to sophisticated dress shirts for evening gatherings. Roman Kandle’s universal appeal lies in its ability to merge the essence of South Florida flair with timeless elegance, offering a fresh and exciting look cherished by individuals seeking quality and authenticity in their attire.

What did you want to be when you were a child?

Like many young boys, I wanted to be a professional football player when I grew up. However, the program in my community was shut down due to a lack of funding in the Miami Beach area. I also loved basketball and was inspired by Allen Iverson, but I was often overlooked because of my height; I was a late bloomer. But this is when my passion for fashion started. Roman Kandle lived in mind even then.

I discovered Coogi and Versace from Tupac and Biggie Smalls. I never looked back from that moment; I believed my vision would manifest itself because I knew some men looked like me. Roman Kandle is the embodiment of my South Florida culture. I want to give big, tall men that swagger I saw in Biggie.

5 Questions with the Bahamian Fashion Designer Behind Roman Kandle

How do you define success?

One word: “JOY.” Many people define success by their bank account, but success, from my point of view, isn’t something that can be measured by money. Roman Kandle is designed around the moments in a man’s life that give him joy. Getting married, having a family or obtaining a degree is a triumphant moment where men want to look as good as they feel. The primary definition of success is looking back on where you started, knowing you accomplished your goals and ambitions.

Would you run your business any differently if given $50 million? How so?

Yes. If I had $50 million to invest in Roman Kandle, 90% would be allocated to marketing. Most people would assume that I’m referring to exposure because the more people recognize your brand, the higher the percentage of sales. But I believe the more funds a company has, the better they can articulate exactly what they’re selling or the service that they’re providing. Similar to how hip-hop artists would rent luxury houses and vehicles for their music videos. The better Roman Kandel consumers can visualize our product and relate or aspire to it, the better they understand our company and are more likely to support it.

How do you build yourself back up in moments of self-doubt or adversity?

What helps me the most in trying times is my faith in God. It might be alarming, but what encourages me is also my doubters and haters. We often confuse the two, but doubters can be close friends and family members who love you but doubt your actions for whatever reason. Haters are the people who, regardless of how great of an accomplishment, will never give their validation. My mentality of “DO IT or BE BROKE!” also comes to mind.

I’ve had near-death experiences, so the “there’s no tomorrow” approach is what has allowed me to be this far in life and my current profession as a real estate agent. It also fueled me to realize my vision of creating my menswear fashion line, Roman Kandle.

What would you tell yourself ten or twenty years ago that you wish you knew then?

If I spoke to myself ten or twenty years ago, I would tell myself to be more mature. Like many people in America, I grew up in an environment where I had to grow up faster than I expected or wanted. I’m the second oldest child out of seven. So, I had to lead by example for my younger siblings. I had to learn that after finding myself in multiple unfortunate situations. I’m thankful for a mindset that allows me to pick myself back up; many others are not so lucky.

Rapid Fire Bahamian Culture Q&A

Which island in the Bahamas are you from?

Nassau.

What three things do you think every first-time visitor to the Bahamas should do?

Every first-time visitor should go reef snorkeling. My design for Roman Kandle reflects the Bahamas culture. I can see first-time visitors enjoying a day reef snorkeling, then rum tasting and feeding wild stingrays right at the beach. These are some things I am looking forward to when I return!

What is your favorite thing to do while in the Bahamas?

I haven’t been there in many years, but when I return with my two sons, my favorite thing will be sharing the Bahamas with them. My heritage is very important to me, and I look forward to eating and enjoying the fun activities only the Bahamas offers.

Favorite indulgence in the Bahamas?

The food, period.

FFTP and Republic of China (Taiwan) Join Forces to Provide Lifesaving Rice to Haiti

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Guest Admin

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February 5, 2024

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Agreement Protocol Signature Ceremony at FFTP 26-01-2024 27c — Jyr-Geng Wu, Vice Counselor, Richard Wen-Jiann Ku, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Haiti, Mario Nicoleau, Executive Director of Food For The Poor-Haiti and Ken Michel, FFTP-Haiti’s Chief Operating Officer, stand after an agreement was signed on Friday, renewing Taiwan’s longstanding pledge to provide lifesaving rice to Haiti. Photo/Food For The Poor

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. (Jan. 29, 2024) – Food For The Poor (FFTP) and the Republic of China (Taiwan) are once again demonstrating their longstanding commitment to provide lifesaving rice to Haiti.

Food For The Poor-Haiti will receive more than 400 tractor-trailer loads of lifesaving rice from the Republic of China (Taiwan) in 2024, with the first shipment of 40 containers in February and additional shipments continuing each month through December.

The 8,240 metric tons of rice follows generous gifts of rice provided each year by Taiwan.

On Friday, Mario Nicoleau, Executive Director of FFTP-Haiti, and Richard Wen-Jiann Ku, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Haiti, signed an agreement spelling out the details of the shipments at the charity’s Port-au-Prince office. Also present were Jyr-Geng Wu, Vice Counselor, and Bao-neng Lee, First Secretary.

FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine, who signed the agreement in advance, and EVP/Chief Operating Officer Mark Khouri participated in the ceremony via video conference from the charity’s Coconut Creek headquarters.

FFTP and Republic of China (Taiwan) Join Forces to Provide Lifesaving Rice to Haiti — Richard Wen-Jiann Ku, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Haiti, left, and Mario Nicoleau, Executive Director of Food For The Poor-Haiti, hold the agreement signed on Friday at FFTP-Haiti’s office in Port-au-Prince, renewing Taiwan’s longstanding pledge to provide lifesaving rice to Haiti. Photo/Food For The Poor

Nicoleau said the rice is coming at a critical time in Haiti, where 44 percent of the population is facing severe food insecurity and needs immediate assistance.

“Solomon, in the book of Proverbs, said, ‘A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity,’” Nicoleau said. “A special thanks to the Taiwanese people who have not only expressed their friendship towards the Haitian people but, more importantly, their brotherhood in these difficult times. Long live this brotherhood between Taiwan and Haiti.”

Since 2007, the partnership with the Taiwanese government has provided FFTP with the opportunity to feed thousands of families and meet its mission to help children and families living in poverty.

Ambassador Richard Wen-Jiann Ku said Taiwan is committed to deepening its partnership with FFTP, contributing to improving the daily lives of the most deprived Haitians.

“I would like to commend the hard work of the leadership team of Food For The Poor-Haiti, who spared no effort in carrying out their humanitarian mission and providing aid to the most needy families, allowing Taiwanese assistance to reach the hands of the most deprived,” the ambassador said. “We are reassured to see that the greater the challenge, the more Food For The Poor lives up to expectations.”

Haiti has been grappling with a severe hunger crisis, exacerbated by ongoing civil unrest and political instability. The situation has left millions of Haitians without access to basic necessities, including food. In response, FFTP has been working tirelessly to provide emergency relief and sustainable solutions to those in need.

In 2023, the rice donation from Taiwan enabled FFTP-Haiti to serve 820 schools, 5,414 people displaced by gang violence, and 12,000 inmates in the country’s prisons. In addition, the rice benefited vulnerable children in 112 orphanages and families in 798 parishes and 61 congregations in the most remote and violence-prone areas of Haiti.

Raine said he is looking forward to traveling to Taiwan later this year to express his thanks in person.

“I want to underscore the importance of this extraordinary partnership and the value of the rice donation that is given to Haiti that keeps so many millions of people alive,” Raine said. “We are just extremely blessed and fortunate to be able to count on the people of Taiwan for this extraordinary generosity.”

Khouri said the Republic of China (Taiwan) has donated more than 70,000 tons of rice to FFTP over the last 18 years.

“That is an astronomical number that Food For The Poor and the people of Haiti have been blessed to have received,” Khouri said. “With all that is happening in Haiti, this is so vitally important to us and the people of Haiti. It is saving lives.”

Food For The Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the nation, does much more than feed millions of hungry children and families living in poverty primarily in 17 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. This interdenominational Christian ministry provides emergency relief assistance, water, medicine, educational materials, homes, support for vulnerable children, care for the aged, skills training and micro-enterprise development assistance. For more information, please visit foodforthepoor.org.

Afro Latina Represents Caribbean Culture in Theater

By

Téa Smith

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February 5, 2024

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As an undergraduate student at Northern Kentucky University, Gabriela Castillo had never considered a career in acting. That all changed when a college friend asked her to work on a film project. That one opportunity led to several more projects with the same friend — and, eventually, to an acting career.

“I started acting, not professionally, but as a hobby,” says Castillo, a native of Cuba who was a music major at the time. “When I graduated college, I felt like, ‘OK, it’s time for me to take acting seriously.’ ”

A photo of Gabriela Castillo in Cuba as a child. (Afro Latina Alumna Works to Expand Representation of Caribbean Culture in Theater) — Castillo dressed up as a character from a Latin soap opera in Cuba.

She’s done just that. After earning her bachelor’s degree in music in 2014, she began acting in stage productions and taught theater, dance and Spanish at a Kentucky middle school for a year, before deciding she wanted to go to grad school. She didn’t know much about the University of South Carolina, but she attended a recruiting event for prospective MFA candidates and was impressed by the USC professors she met. They showed passion and authenticity about theater, and she believed she could thrive at South Carolina.

In the past, she had often felt like she had to erase a part of her identity to book roles because casting directors would ask her if she could hide her Cuban accent. She says having an acting and voice coach tell her they’d work with her natural sound gave her confidence that she’s carried into her career.

“It has left me in a great place to start my professional theater career,” she says of USC’s MFA program. “And I think it shows because I’ve been working.”

After she got her MFA in acting in 2019, Castillo began working in storefront theater productions in Kentucky and Chicago, performing in plays like Sergio’s Museum, Checkerboard Chicks and Back in the Day. But when everything came to a halt during the pandemic, she decided to re-examine her priorities.

While she loves acting, it’s not often that she sees herself reflected onstage or onscreen. When most people imagine what a Latino actor looks like, she says, they may picture someone like Rita Moreno, Ana de Armas, or Salma Hayek. Although people are widening their concept of what Latinos look like — to include Latina actresses of African descent such as Gina Torres, Ariana DeBose and Zoe Saldaña — there’s still work to be done on how they’re portrayed, Castillo says.

“There are so many Afro Latino stories that go untold or get told through people that are not Afro Latinos,” she says. “I just want to tell the stories of things that I grew up with and not just a mockup that someone else puts on because they think, ‘Oh, that looks really cool.’”

This reflection led her to start expanding a play she wrote during grad school that reflects her Caribbean Afro-Latino background and pursue funding to start a production company to tell similar stories.

“The mission statement of the company is going to be to tell stories of Afro Latino people, but they don’t have to be about being Afro Latino,” she says. “It’s not a mission statement where it’s like, ‘This story will be teaching a lesson.’ That gets a little bit on my nerves when you can tell that something is preaching at you. Can we just do like a romantic comedy where the characters just happen to be Afro-Latino?”

For now, she continues performing in regional stage productions as she works on writing her play and getting her production company off the ground. Eventually, she would like to make the jump to television and film.

A photo of Gabriela Castillo. (Afro Latina Alumna Works to Expand Representation of Caribbean Culture in Theater)

“The mission statement of the company is going to be to tell stories of Afro Latino people, but they don’t have to be about being Afro Latino.”

She says she would like to collaborate with other Caribbeans to tell stories that reflect cultures outside of the Afro Latino diaspora. She hopes that she’ll be able to help shift the portrayal of Caribbean and Afro Latino cultures to be more accurate and diverse.

“I think realistically it will be a slow process, but I can only start from what I know,” she says. “I can start with me.”

Republished article by Téa Smith and the University of South Carolina, with permission given by Dan Cook, Associate Director of Editorial Content

Barbadian-American Takes American Marketing Association Top Honors

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Guest Admin

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January 30, 2024

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Barbadian-American Lasana Smith of GAROI Media Takes American Marketing Association Top Honors — Founder and CEO Lasana Smith receives the "Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year" award from the American Marketing Association

Miami, FL – January 30, 2024: GAROI Media, a leading advertising agency based in Miami, was recognized with the prestigious “Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year” award at the 5th Annual American Marketing Association (AMA) South Florida Awards. This accolade celebrates the agency’s innovative and impactful advertising campaign for the New World Symphony, titled “I Dream a World: Harlem Renaissance in Europe.”

This innovative campaign effectively highlighted the two-week multidisciplinary concert series, showcasing the cultural connections between the Harlem Renaissance and Europe, which resonated deeply with the South Florida community. Utilizing a mix of data-driven strategies and creative storytelling, it skillfully engaged diverse audiences through a combination of traditional and digital media.

The Barbadian-American owned full-service boutique agency, known for its exceptional strategic advertising and digital marketing expertise, also received top finalist honors in several other categories, including Marketing Campaign of the Year, Marketing Team of the Year, and Non-Profit Marketing Campaign of the Year.

“We are thrilled and honored to receive this prestigious recognition from AMA South Florida,” said Lasana Smith, Founder and CEO of GAROI Media. “Our team’s commitment to innovation and excellence in digital marketing has truly paid off, and this award is a testament to our hard work and dedication.”

The award ceremony, held at the O Cinema in South Beach Miami, celebrated outstanding marketing campaigns that significantly impacted the South Florida community. GAROI Media stood out among more than 70 submissions, evaluated by a panel of over 20 highly qualified jurors with extensive marketing and advertising experience.

Actor Kingsley Ben-Adir Talks “Bob Marley: One Love” Role on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

By

Hannah Gulics

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January 29, 2024

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Kingsley Ben-Adir role in the upcoming film “Bob Marley: One Love,” on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

Everybody knows him. When you hear the name, radio hits like “Could You Be Loved,” “Three Little Birds” and “I Shot the Sherriff” might immediately come to mind, or the powerful “Redemption Song” that has and continues to unite in continuous protest against discrimination. There is no better way to describe the iconic Bob Marley as the enduring “King of Reggae.” Now, his life and career is heading to the big screen, with “Bob Marley: One Love” to tell the tale of Jamaica’s most iconic singer-songwriter.

Actor Kingsley Ben-Adir scored the lead role playing Bob Marley, and has delved deep into his world over the past year, spending extensive time with the Marley family and individuals who were acquainted with the legendary musician in Jamaica before his rise to fame. This immersive experience allowed the leading man to authentically embody the essence of the Reggae icon in the much-anticipated movie coming to theaters on February 14, 2024.

The British-Trinidadian actor is no stranger to the spotlight, with a portfolio of several television roles, one being a stint on the popular BBC drama “Peaky Blinders,” as well as a recent appearance as one of the Kens in the multiple Golden Globe Awards-winning film, “Barbie.” Now, his role as Bob Marley is sure to become one of his industry monikers.

Watch the interview below to learn more about Ben-Adir’s process of becoming Bob Marley for the film.

Sweat to the Beat: 8 Fun, High-Energy Caribbean Dance Workouts for a Sculpted Body

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Hannah Gulics

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January 23, 2024

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High-Energy Caribbean Dance Workouts for a Sculpted Body

“New year, new you” and that all starts with making and committing to healthy habits! Get ready to shimmy, shake, and sweat your way to a sculpted body with these dynamic dance workouts that not only elevate your heart rate, but also infuse your fitness routine with the spirit of Reggae, Afrobeats, Soca and Dancehall. Fitness can be a fun activity as you make your way to a healthier you.

You can find all of these Caribbean dance workouts and more on our YouTube playlist HERE.

Reggaeton

Built for new moms, or anyone low on time, this two part, 20-minute Reggaeton vs Soca workout from fitness influencers Grow with Jo and Tara’s Body is perfect for those looking for low-impact but high energy fun with zero equipment required. Feel good in your own skin while burning up to 200 calories dancing along to music from Puerto Rican rapper Farruko and Trinidadian soca artist Machel Montano.

The trick is to keep your heart rate up to burn fat easily with simple full-body movements that keep you in constant motion. And if you’re worried you can’t keep up, don’t sweat it. Both Johanna and Tara are there to keep you motivated and focused on the real goal: to have fun and move your body!

From mastering body rolls and footwork to stomps and spins, Laurel Card of The Mom Edit teaches this intermediate class all set to the infectious beats of Reggaeton and Latin hip-hop. This class offers the flexibility to choose your preferred level of difficulty, as each move comes with layers, allowing you to start at a complete beginner level and progressively build up the complexity and intensity of the routine. Once you master the steps, dance it out in full swing alongside Card in the part two video!

Afrobeats

Only have 10 minutes? No problem. In this POPSUGAR Fitness video, host and choreographer Kaleila Jordan guides you with a step-by-step Afrobeats dance workout. Joined by the dynamic duo Galit Friedlander and Claudine Pierre-Louis, this leg and hip-focused workout is fully guided and includes a slowed down, step-by-step instruction for all of the moves, so you can be sure to hit your mark. Look forward to winding and shaking your booty among more traditional African dance moves — and get in a great stretch for the cool down at the end.

If you’re looking to get energized, take this class from Hélio Faria, the creator of DanceFunFitness. Catered to both men and women, follow along with the instructors for 25 minutes of authentic African, Dancehall and Soca moves to the beat of a playlist staked with great artists, like Wizkid, Kevin Lyttle and Sean Paul. Each dance segment is split up by song, so pick your favorite, or set yourself the challenge to do them all!

Soca

Antiguan dance fitness instructor Selena Watkins of Socanomics leads this dynamic Caribbean workout that focuses on breathwork, hip mobility, full body cardio and, of course, fun! For 30 minutes you’ll be body rolling, winding, hopping, shimmying, hip thrusting and more, learning moves often seen at Carnival. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, Watkins’ expert instruction allows you to infuse your personality and make each move your own. So, even if you’re not in the mood to work out, simply let the music take over!

Looking for something even more challenging? Take this class from Paige Romans of Soca Fitness that incorporates weight lifting into the workout. Jump along to music from Trinidadian soca group Kes, Machel Montano, Lyrikal and more as you wave your flag, dance to the beat and tone up your arms with bicep curls, front raises, overhead extensions, bent over rows and other variations of upper body training. Roman’s advice — “bring water and a rag in preparation fi deh sweat.”

Dancehall

15 minutes is all you need to sweat it out in this Jamaican dancehall-inspired workout. Hosted by fan-favorite instructor Brandon from 305 Fitness, prepare to wind your hips, pop your booty and drop it low. The video is complete will full instructions on each move, so you know exactly what to do and how to do it before combining everything into a full dance. This high-energy, full-body workout will leave you feeling like a dancehall queen, so skip your boring treadmill-based cardio and get your heart rate up with non-stop dancing!

Not a fan of the gym? No problem. Workout from the comfort of your home with this 25-minute dance from Dom and Danielle of and8 Fitness. The playlist includes hits like Dutty Wine by Tony Matterhorn, Run Wid It by Mr. Killa and Get Busy by Sean Paul, so prepare to be jamming along the whole time as you jump, wine, back it up and more. Though challenging, this workout is doable for any level of fitness, and any age! If you’re getting tired or just not feeling the moves (though we doubt it!), you can never go wrong with stepping it out or a quick booty shake. Prepare to get sweaty!

Cedella Marley, Marcia Griffiths & Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin to Receive Lifetime Achievement Awards at Reggae Genealogy Concert

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Guest Admin

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January 22, 2024

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Plantation, Florida: On Saturday, February 10, 2024 from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m., in celebration of Reggae Month, the story of Jamaican music will be presented to South Florida in a bold and unprecedented homage. The inaugural Reggae Genealogy concert, an outdoor concert chronicling the origins, evolution and influence of Jamaican music, will take place at one of South Florida’s most popular and progressive shopping destinations — Broward Mall in the City of Plantation. The entire history of Jamaican music will come alive in words, music, video and live performances for a fully immersive experience. Reggae Genealogy is produced by Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, so the music, performances and other elements will be appropriate for families, shoppers and fans of all ages.

The three-hour showcase will trace the early beginnings of popular Jamaican music, prior to Jamaican independence from Britain in 1962, to the present, touching on mento, ska, nyabinghi, rocksteady, lovers rock, dub, reggae and dancehall. The showcase will also highlight the influence of Jamaican music on genres such as hip hop, reggaeton, EDM and Afrobeats. Attendees can come out early to enjoy food and artisan vendors in the event area as well as inside the mall.

Lifetime Achievement Awards

The nation’s only Caribbean heritage museum, Island SPACE periodically honors members of the community for their accomplishments and service. In a scheduled presentation during the Reggae Genealogy concert, three women icons will be recognized for their contributions to Jamaican music worldwide. Honorees include CEO of the Marley Group of Companies and the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation, Cedella Marley, the most respected woman singer in reggae history, Marcia Griffiths, and the co-founder of the largest global reggae music label, Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin of VP Records.

Island SPACE co-founder and president Calibe Thompson said, “As a woman leading this distinguished organization, it is all the more gratifying to me that we are presenting our first lifetime achievement awards to this trio of powerful women. They inspire me personally, and have collectively inspired generations of women and men.”

Prelude Panel Discussion

The Reggae Genealogy concert is billed as a melding of entertainment and education, with affiliated activities and campaigns leading up to the main event. On Saturday, January 20, at a recent prelude to the main event, more than 120 attendees, including City of Plantation Mayor Nick Sortal, packed into Island SPACE Caribbean Museum for the Reggae Genealogy panel discussion and launch party under the theme “The Roots & Fruits of the Reggae Family Tree.” To introduce the conversation, Mayor Sortal reflected, “I can’t tell you how blessed and grateful we are that you [Island SPACE] are here.” He continued, “Let’s keep learning, and if we all keep learning, the world is going to be that much of a better place.”

Watch the panel discussion.

Throughout the evening, Willie Stewart (former Third World band member), Maxine Stowe, Copeland Forbes, Abebe Lewis (industry professionals) and Mr. Vegas (dancehall/reggae artist) shared thoughts on the influence of reggae, methods for monetization, and how Jamaicans can take better advantage of the music that has proliferated beyond the island’s borders.

Reggae Genealogy event sponsors including Mayor Sortal representing the City of Plantation, Neki Mohan of Visit Lauderdale and David Mullings of Blue Mahoe Capital shared their support for the event and the museum.

More About the Concert

Gates for the Reggae Genealogy concert open at 3pm with showtime at 6pm. Afternoon attendees can enjoy pre-show activities and tours of Island SPACE Caribbean Museum inside the Broward Mall.

In addition to the main performance elements, during the show, beloved icons of the past and present such as Harry Belafonte, the first recording artist to sell a million records in the U.S., will be creatively featured in the narrative. Living legends like Mykal Rose of Black Uhuru, the first reggae band to win a Grammy, will make special guest appearances.

Pre-sold tickets are $20 or $25 at the gate. Find tickets, general, sponsorship, vendor and volunteer information at www.reggaegenealogy.org

Support and Background

Reggae Genealogy is powered by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and by Grace Tropical Rhythms, presented in partnership with Broward Mall and the City of Plantation, and made possible in part by the support of the Broward County Cultural Division, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Blue Mahoe Capital, Visit Lauderdale, Only the Best Printing, the Beach Channel, Jamaica Tourist Board, the State of Florida Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the following funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Judith Cornfeld Fund for the Arts, Helen and Frank Stoykov Charitable Endowment Fund and The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund.

Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education (Island SPACE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of arts, culture, history, and educational initiatives that represent the Caribbean region, in South Florida and the broader diaspora. The public is invited to visit the Caribbean museum Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. General museum entry is $10 per adult and $5 per child. Visit www.islandspacefl.org to learn more.

Top 5 Romantic Caribbean Retreats for Your Perfect Honeymoon

By

Hannah Gulics

-

January 22, 2024

0

A honeymoon in the Caribbean is the epitome of romance – secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters and luxurious stays that cater to every whim. If you’re planning the perfect post-wedding getaway, look no further. Each of these romantic Caribbean retreats offers a unique and magical setting for celebrating your love and promises an unforgettable honeymoon experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the beginning of your journey together as a married couple.

Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia

Top 5 Romantic Caribbean Retreats for Your Perfect Honeymoon Jade Mountain Resort — Photos: jademountain.com

Nestled between the peaks of the twin Piton mountains and overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia is a masterpiece of secluded luxury. The resort’s open-air accommodations, called “sanctuaries,” extend your room into the outdoors for uninterrupted connection with nature. Each sanctuary is uniquely designed with an absence of a fourth wall, offering unobstructed views of the lush surroundings that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own private infinity pool.

Complete with gourmet dining, escorted walks and hikes, private yoga sessions and personalized services at the Kai en Ciel spa — of which treatments can be done in the comfort of your own infinity pool — Jade Mountain sets the stage for an intimate and luxurious honeymoon experience.

Sandals Royal Caribbean, Bahamas

Top 5 Romantic Caribbean Retreats for Your Perfect Honeymoon Sandals Royal Caribbean — Photos: sandals.com

For those seeking the best of the all-inclusive experience, Sandals Royal Caribbean delivers. This well-known, 5-star resort offers overwater bungalows, a rarity in the region, allowing couples to wake up to the gentle lapping of the waters beneath their private villa. Splurge on the Love Nest Butler Suite and enjoy unlimited gourmet dining, 24/7 room service complete with a personal butler, water sports and entertainment just a short boat ride away. As the ultimate laid-back environment for post-wedding bliss, it’s no wonder Sandals was voted “Top All-Inclusive Resorts for Honeymoons” by BRIDES magazine.

Couples Tower Isle, Jamaica

Top 5 Romantic Caribbean Retreats for Your Perfect Honeymoon Couples Tower Isle — Photos: couples.com

For a seamless and worry-free honeymoon experience, Couples Tower Isle in Jamaica is an idyllic choice that combines charm with modern luxury. Located on a private white-sand beach, Couples Tower Isle offers a variety of fun activities. Take in a round of golf, relax with a couples massage or enjoy an afternoon of water sports, including snorkeling and scuba diving. The resort’s exclusive amenities, such as private island excursions and cliffside dining, create an atmosphere for newlyweds to make memories. With spa facilities, nightlife and multiple dining options that include fresh, farm-to-table ingredients, Couples Tower Isle ensures that your honeymoon is both relaxing and entertaining.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa, Dominican Republic

Top 5 Romantic Caribbean Retreats for Your Perfect Honeymoon Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa — Photos: hyattinclusivecollection.com

Located in the pristine beauty of Punta Cana, Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa is an adults-only haven for couples seeking a refined and intimate escape. The resort’s Unlimited-Luxury® concept ensures that every detail of your honeymoon is taken care of – from gourmet dining to top-shelf spirits, soothing couples massages and even a romantic mimosa breakfast in bed. The Secrets Spa by Pevonia offers a range of indulgent treatments, while the white-sand beach, spacious suites with private balconies or terraces and sparkling pools provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Pink Sands Resort, Bahamas

Top 5 Romantic Caribbean Retreats for Your Perfect Honeymoon Pink Sands Resort — Photos: @pinksandsresort on IG

For newlyweds seeking a more laid-back atmosphere, Pink Sands Resort on Harbour Island is a hidden gem. Set against the backdrop of its namesake pink sandy beaches, lush tropical gardens abound at this boutique resort that provides a much-needed escape. The charming cottages and villas offer seclusion and breathtaking views of the ocean, while an array of activities, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, sunset cruises, romantic beach picnics and fully guided-experiences, keep couples entertained. Relax with a Pink Sand Signature Massage before enjoying a private in-room dining experience to end the day in style. With its understated luxury and genuine hospitality, this resort captures the essence of a peaceful and romantic retreat.

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Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia

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