Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - Dec 2023 by caribbeanamericanpassport

FREE Your Passport to the Caribbean American Community Nov/Dec 2023

11 American Caribbean Maritime Foundation

The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among the Indian diaspora around the world. This festival, often referred to as the "Festival of Lights," holds immense cultural, religious, and social significance for millions of people. Diwali typically lasts for five days and falls between October and November, depending on the lunar calendar. The roots of Diwali can be traced back to ancient India, where it has various historical and religious significances across different regions and communities. One of the most well-known stories associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, from exile after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya celebrated their return by lighting oil lamps and decorating their homes, giving birth to the tradition of illuminating homes during Diwali.

The American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF) has been at the forefront of promoting maritime education and supporting the next generation of maritime professionals. In 2023, the ACMF continued its mission to bridge the gap between education and the maritime industry, ensuring a bright future for aspiring individuals in the Caribbean and beyond.

The ACMF actively collaborates with maritime industry leaders, both regionally and internationally, to create internship and job placement opportunities for scholarship recipients. This practical exposure enables students to gain valuable hands-on experience, making them more competitive in the job market. The foundation understands the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in maritime careers. ACMF sponsors STEM programs and workshops in schools to foster an early interest in these subjects among young students, ultimately paving the way for future maritime professionals.

The ACMF's mission is clear: to empower and inspire Caribbean youth to pursue careers in the maritime sector while fostering a strong sense of responsibility towards marine conservation. Their vision is to create a region where young talents are equipped with the skills and opportunities to contribute to the maritime industry's growth while preserving the Caribbean's unique marine ecosystem.

The ACMF recognizes the critical role the Caribbean's marine ecosystem plays in the region's identity and sustainability.

In 2023, the ACMF offered scholarships and financial assistance to students pursuing maritime education and related fields. These One of the central rituals of Diwali is the scholarships not only alleviate the lighting of oil lamps and candles, which are financial burden on students but also placed both inside and outside homes. These serve as a vital incentive for them to lamps, called "diyas," not only add to the excel academically. ACMF is creating festive ambiance but also hold deep symbolic a pool of talented individuals ready meaning. They represent the inner light that to contribute to the maritime dispels darkness and ignorance. Continued on Page 7 industry.

The ACM Foundation is dedicated to its mission and vision in its tireless efforts to empower Caribbean youth, support maritime education, while also promoting environmental conservation. They are driving force in creating opportunities and nurturing talent in the maritime industry, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future...Cont'd on page 6

For Hindus, Diwali also marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The lighting of oil lamps, candles, and the bursting of fireworks symbolize the dispelling of ignorance and the victory of righteousness. The preparations for Diwali start weeks in advance, with people cleaning and decorating their homes. Traditional rangoli patterns made with colorful powders or flower petals adorn doorsteps, and homes are often adorned with colorful lights and lanterns. The exchange of gifts, sweets, and special Diwali treats is common during this time.

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Guenet Gittens-Roberts Owner/Publisher/Editor

L I F E S T Y L E The Common and Unique Threads of World Religions Samuel J. Roberts

Christians, comprising the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Quran is the central religious text for Muslims, believed to be the word of God as revealed to Muhammad. Hinduism has a vast body of scriptures, including the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita, while Buddhism has its Tripitaka (Three Baskets) of scriptures. These texts are One of the most striking similarities among several major world revered and studied by adherents to gain a deeper religions is the belief in a single, all-powerful, and transcendent understanding of their faith. God. Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, often referred to as the "Abrahamic religions," all adhere to monotheism. Followers of Many religions emphasize the importance of charity and these religions believe in the existence of a single divine entity helping those in need. Acts of charity and almsgiving are who created the universe and continues to govern it. The considered virtuous and a way to demonstrate one's Abrahamic religions also share a belief in prophets or compassion and empathy. In Islam, the concept of Zakat messengers who have conveyed God's will to humanity. For involves giving a portion of one's wealth to support those less example, Judaism recognizes Abraham, Christianity venerates fortunate. In Christianity, the principle of giving to the poor Jesus Christ, and Islam reveres Muhammad as significant and needy is emphasized through teachings such as "love your neighbor as yourself." Buddhism encourages acts of generosity prophets. and kindness as a means to accumulate positive karma. These Another commonality among world religions is the emphasis on shared values of generosity and compassion promote a sense ethical codes and moral principles. Religions often provide of community and solidarity among believers. guidance on how individuals should conduct themselves, emphasizing virtues such as compassion, honesty, humility, and While there are undeniable differences among the religions, kindness. The Ten Commandments in Judaism and Christianity, these common threads demonstrate the shared values and the Five Pillars of Islam, and the Eightfold Path in Buddhism are aspirations that unite humanity. They highlight the universal examples of moral and ethical frameworks that provide believers human desire for meaning, ethical guidance, and spiritual with a blueprint for leading a virtuous life. connection. Understanding these commonalities can foster Many religions share a belief in some form of an afterlife. While greater interfaith understanding and respect, encouraging the details may vary significantly, the concept of life after death dialogue and cooperation among people of different religious is a central tenet in several faiths. In Christianity, there is the backgrounds. In a world often divided by religious differences, belief in heaven and hell, where one's actions on Earth recognizing the similarities among faiths can be a powerful determine their eternal fate. Similarly, Islam teaches the force for unity and peace. Owner/Publisher/Editor

Religion has played a significant role in human history, shaping cultures, societies, and individual lives. While the world is home to a diverse array of religions, each with its own unique beliefs, practices, and traditions, there are also common threads that run through many of them.

existence of Paradise (Jannah) and Hellfire (Jahannam). Hinduism and Buddhism incorporate reincarnation into their beliefs, where the soul is reborn into different forms based on karma. These beliefs in an afterlife often serve as a source of hope and motivation for adherents to lead virtuous lives.

Religions often involve various rituals and forms of worship. These rituals can include prayer, meditation, fasting, and acts of charity. While the specific practices may differ, the purpose is often the same: to connect with the divine, seek guidance, and express devotion. For example, Muslims perform daily prayers facing the Kaaba in Mecca, Christians attend Sunday Mass, Buddhists engage in meditation, and Hindus participate in elaborate ceremonies and pujas at temples. These rituals serve as a means of spiritual connection and expression of faith. Sacred texts are an integral part of many religions, serving as a source of spiritual guidance and religious authority. These texts often contain teachings, stories, and commandments that are revered by followers. The Bible is the holy scripture for

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Should you desire to review past copies of the publication go to http://caribbeanamericanpassport.com and click on the 'Print Archive'. Publisher & Editor................................................................................... Sam Roberts Publisher ............................................................................. Guenet Gittens-Roberts Editor & Contributing Writer................................................................Aleia Roberts Contributing Writers: ................................................................................ Tony Dyal Contributing Photographers ............ .......................................................King Visual ....................................................................................................................Dillia Castillo Central Florida Distribution......................................................... .Danielle Browne South Florida Distribution .............................................................Norman Williams North Florida Distribution ...............................................................Kadeem Roberts Tampa Distribution ...................................................................................Khiefer Bell Copyright (C) 2016 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

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Drug Policies, Testing Methods Adapt to Growth in Cannabis Use Editor's Note: This commentary is provided by the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) of Florida A&M University Consider this hypothetical scenario: Two weeks ago, during a vacation in California, you lawfully purchased and consumed marijuana intended for adult use. But now you are back at work in Florida, where recreational cannabis remains illegal, and you have been chosen for a random drug test by your employer. It is highly likely that your past marijuana usage, although legal at the time, would be detected by urine and hair follicle tests. A urine analysis can find traces of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component in cannabis, for up to 30 days following marijuana consumption, while a hair follicle sample offers up to 90 days of potentially incriminating evidence. If your employer has a strict drug-free workplace policy, you could be fired regardless of the circumstances. The same consequence could happen even if you had legally used low-THC medical cannabis because employees with Florida medical marijuana cards are not protected by state law.

A particularly daring method used to cheat a urine test involves obtaining a urine sample from a non-user. According to drug testing expert Zathan Boutan, employees whose job roles pose safety risks, such as those working in law enforcement and transportation, are often subject to random drug testing as a condition of employment, unlike employees in desk-bound positions. “Oral fluid is one of the newer methodologies, and it goes back a day, possibly two if you're a heavy user,” says Kelly Dobbins, who has 25 years of experience in administering drug and alcohol tests for public and private employers, courts and the federal government. “Oral fluid is one of the newer methodologies, and it goes back a day, possibly two if you're a heavy user,” says Kelly Dobbins, who has 25 years of experience in administering drug and alcohol tests for public and private employers, courts and the federal government.

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The Spirit of Thanksgiving: Celebrating Family and Gratitude Thanksgiving, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States, is a time-honored tradition that goes beyond the turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. At its core, Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude and the importance of family. This annual holiday embodies the spirit of coming together, reflecting on our blessings, and cherishing the love and bonds of family. Thanksgiving has its historical origins in the early 17th century when Pilgrims from England and Native Americans came together to celebrate a bountiful harvest. The story of the first Thanksgiving is often romanticized, but it symbolizes the idea of unity, cooperation, and gratitude. This historical event laid the foundation for a holiday that would later become a national tradition. At the heart of Thanksgiving is the spirit of gratitude. It's a time to pause and reflect on the abundance of blessings in our lives, both big and small. Whether it's good health, a loving family, a fulfilling career, or simply the roof over our heads, Thanksgiving encourages us to count our blessings and express appreciation for them. Gratitude has been scientifically proven to have numerous physical and psychological benefits. Practicing gratitude can improve our mental well-being, enhance our relationships, and even boost our immune system. Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of the positive impact gratitude can have on our lives and the lives of those around us. One of the most significant aspects of Thanksgiving is the emphasis on family. It's a time when relatives from near and far come together to share a meal and create lasting memories. In today's fast-paced world, where everyone seems to be constantly on the go, Thanksgiving offers a precious opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. Family is the cornerstone of our lives. They are the people who support us in times of need, celebrate our achievements, and share in our joys and sorrows. Thanksgiving provides a moment to express gratitude for the gift of family and to strengthen those bonds. Gathering around the table, sharing stories, and laughing together reinforces the sense of belonging and love that family brings. Thanksgiving traditions vary from family to family, but they all share the common goal of fostering togetherness and creating a sense of belonging. For many, the day begins with the aroma of a turkey roasting in the oven and the sound of laughter in the kitchen. It's a time for loved ones

to come together, help with meal preparations, and share in the joy of cooking and baking. The centerpiece of the Thanksgiving table, the turkey, symbolizes abundance and nourishment. The meal is often accompanied by side dishes that reflect regional and cultural influences. Whether it's stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, or green bean casserole, these dishes are cherished family recipes passed down through generations, adding a sense of history and tradition to the feast. The act of sharing a meal together is a powerful bonding experience. It allows for meaningful conversations, laughter, and a chance to catch up on each other's lives. It's a time when busy schedules are put on hold, and the focus shifts to the people who matter most. Thanksgiving also provides an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have made a positive impact on our lives. This can include friends, mentors, colleagues, and community members. Writing heartfelt thank-you notes or simply saying "thank you" can have a profound effect on both the giver and the recipient. In addition to personal expressions of gratitude, many communities engage in acts of charity and giving during the Thanksgiving season. Food drives, volunteering at shelters, and supporting those in need are ways to extend the spirit of Thanksgiving beyond the family circle. These acts of kindness reinforce the value of empathy and compassion. Thanksgiving is a time for creating lasting memories. Whether it's the annual touch football game in the backyard, the shared stories and anecdotes at the dinner table, or the cozy moments spent by the fireplace, these memories become part of our family's legacy. Children, in particular, benefit from the traditions and memories created during Thanksgiving. They learn about the importance of gratitude, family bonds, and the joy of giving. These values shape their character and influence their own future celebrations. The spirit of Thanksgiving transcends cultural boundaries and religious affiliations. It's a universal celebration of gratitude and family, reminding us to pause and appreciate the blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to strengthen our bonds with family, create cherished memories, and extend acts of kindness to others. In a world that often seems divided, Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of the power of unity, love, and gratitude. It's a day to be thankful not only for what we have but also for the love and support of the family that surrounds us.

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American Caribbean Maritime Foundation Anchor Awards Dinner

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The Remarkable Journey of Indian Indentured Servants to the Caribbean: A Tapestry of Culture The history of the Caribbean is a rich and diverse tapestry woven together by the threads of various cultures, and one group that significantly contributed to this mosaic is the Indian indentured servants. Their journey from the Indian subcontinent to the Caribbean islands left an indelible mark on the region's culture, cuisine, religion, and social fabric. The story of Indian indentured servants in the Caribbean begins in the mid-19th century when the British Empire abolished slavery and sought alternative sources of cheap labor for its sugar, cotton, and cocoa plantations. To fill this labor gap, they turned to India, then under British colonial rule. Most of these indentured laborers hailed from the northern states of India, primarily Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, with smaller numbers from states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh in the south. Their diverse backgrounds and cultures converged as they embarked on a challenging voyage across the vast ocean to the Caribbean islands. The Indian indentured servants were primarily sent to British colonies in the Caribbean, including Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, Jamaica, and other islands. Each of these destinations would soon experience a profound transformation as a result of their arrival. Trinidad and Tobago, located in the southern Caribbean, received a significant influx of Indian indentured laborers. The impact of their arrival is most evident in Trinidad, where the Indo-Trinidadian community thrived. They brought with them the vibrant traditions of North India, including their language, Hindi, which has influenced the local Trinidadian dialect. Indian cuisine, with its aromatic spices and flavors, became an integral part of Trinidad's culinary landscape. The annual celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a testament to the enduring influence of Indian culture on the island. In Guyana, on the northeastern coast of South America, the Indo-Guyanese community has left an indelible mark. They arrived primarily from the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The Indo-Guyanese community has preserved their cultural heritage through traditions like folk music, dance, and religious celebrations. Hinduism and Islam, practiced by many of these indentured servants, continue to flourish in Guyana.

and folklore. The fusion of Indian traditions with those of their fellow Caribbean inhabitants created a unique blend that continues to shape the Caribbean's cultural identity

One striking example of this fusion is the development of Chutney music, which combines elements of Indian music with Caribbean rhythms. Chutney music has gained popularity not only among the Indo-Caribbean communities but also among the broader Caribbean population, exemplifying how cultural exchange has enriched the region.

The story of Indian indentured servants in the Caribbean is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. Their journey from distant regions of India to the Caribbean islands left an enduring legacy. Their influence is seen not only in the flavors of Caribbean cuisine but also in the rhythms of Caribbean music, the colors of festivals, and the diversity of religious practices.

Suriname, on the northeastern coast of South America, also received a substantial number of Indian indentured laborers. The Hindustani community, as they are known today, brought with them a rich tapestry of North Indian culture. Their influence is evident in the popularity of dishes like roti, curry, and chutney, which have become integral to Surinamese cuisine. Jamaica, an island known for its vibrant culture and reggae music, also saw the arrival of Indian indentured laborers. While their numbers were smaller compared to other Caribbean nations, their presence is still felt today. They contributed to the diverse fabric of Jamaica's culture, adding elements of Indian music, dance, and culinary traditions. The Indian indentured servants not only brought their cuisine and religious practices but also their music, dance,

This shared history underscores the beauty of cultural diversity and the potential for harmony and coexistence. As we celebrate the contributions of Indian indentured servants to the Caribbean, let us also recognize that their legacy is a shining example of how diverse cultures can come together to create a harmonious and vibrant tapestry. It is a story of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of culture to transcend boundaries and enrich the world.

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Diwali - Festival of Lights...

Cont'd from page 1

Another integral aspect of Diwali is the worship of various deities. Hindus offer prayers to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Temples are beautifully decorated, and special ceremonies are conducted to seek the blessings of these deities for a prosperous year ahead. Food plays a crucial role in Diwali celebrations. Families prepare a variety of sweets and savory snacks to share with guests and neighbors. Some of the popular Diwali dishes include mithai (sweets) like ladoos, jalebi, and barfi, as well as savory treats like samosas and pakoras. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of Diwali celebrations, particularly the excessive use of fireworks. Many regions are now encouraging eco-friendly celebrations, advocating for the use of green firecrackers that produce less pollution. Additionally, people are opting for LED lights and other energy-efficient decorations to minimize their carbon footprint.

President Joe Biden lights a lamp as First lady Jill Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris look on during an event to celebrate Diwali, at the White House in Washington.

celebration of light and the triumph of good, remains unchanged, making it a cherished and timeless festival for people of all backgrounds.

Diwali is a festival that brings families and communities together to celebrate light, love, and prosperity. It is a time to reflect on the victory of good over evil and the importance of spreading joy and happiness. As the world continues to evolve, so do the traditions of Diwali, with an increasing emphasis on sustainability and eco-conscious celebrations. Nevertheless, the core essence of Diwali, the

Are you looking to access the vibrant, diverse, and influential Caribbean diaspora that exists in Florida? Look no further than Caribbean American Passport News Magazine!

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“The Rum & Reggae fusion with the Sunshine Reggae Festival ....By Rosemarie Roth

In the vibrant heart of Central Florida, where the cultural heartbeat is stronger than ever, a new chapter unfolded for festivalgoers. For the first time, the seductive charm of The Rum & Reggae Festival joined forces with the glowing energy of the Sunshine Reggae Festival to create a day-long celebration of cultural synthesis, encompassing music, culinary cuisine, and the joy of community. This debut fusion promised an unforgettable day, featuring both iconic figures and local artists dedicated to spiritual, reggae and conscious singing. It was not just a celebration of reggae and the art of rum distillation but a manifestation of the unity inherent in these cultures. Participants expected to be carried away by the soothing Irie rhythms and the tantalizing flavors of the Caribbean and they were. At the heart of this event was music – the universal language that resonates within the soul. The festival’s lineup included legendary reggae artists and emerging talents, each infusing the atmosphere with their distinctive sounds to an audience of eager fans. The air was thick with precision and professionalism in music. The strumming of guitars, the syncopated beat of drums, and the smooth bass lines were complemented by the soul-stirring lyrics characteristic of reggae. The festivities commenced with a sip of rum—the treasured product of sugarcane, a Caribbean hallmark—bringing friends together. The festival presented a prime opportunity for guests to indulge their palates and evolve into aficionados, bridging memories and the present. Culinary delights like jerk chicken, Trini Doubles, and curry offered a feast of flavors, educating and pleasing the palate. Each food truck and dish were an explosion of taste and heritage. This atmosphere enticed the story telling of ocean-crossed, and the melding of music and culinary traditions.

As the day of exultation ended, the echoes of reggae music lingered, and the warmth of the new friendship will remain in the hearts of those in attendance. The Rum & Reggae fusion with the Sunshine Reggae Festival was more than just an event; it was an embodiment of joy, heritage, and the indefatigable spirit of togetherness. It was an invitation to all who seek life's rhythms and the dance of friendship to be part of an occasion that will be ingrained in memory, like an enduring melody that will never fade.

This festival emerged as a beacon of unity in an increasingly divided world. It represented a gathering not just for friends and family but also for strangers who share a passion for reggae, food, and rum. It served as a reminder that music and cuisine are conduits of connection, breaking down walls and forging lasting memories and friendship. Reggae icon Nadine Sutherland was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her significant contributions to the music genre emblematic of Jamaica and Bob Marley. This honor was presented by the Honorable Peter Gracey, the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Representative for the Southern USA. Distinguished local figures such as Peter Daley, COO of Caribbean Sunshine Bakery; Sam and Guenet Roberts, publisher of Caribbean America News Magazine; Mea Allman from KUO Magazine; and Karen Green came together in a show of support, etching the event in the minds of the audience. King Yellowman was recognized for his remarkable resilience, rightfully earning the title “King of Dancehall.” Other esteemed performers included Anthony B, Propaganjah, Shun Tai, Ras Takura, accompanied by the Code Red Band and at the helm was Mad Man Smallie & Sophie G.

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Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon has won the heart of runners across the Globe

by Kinisha Correia

The Reggae Marathon, for many, is the most transfixing event on the semi-professional running calendar. Urban marathons, such as the New York Marathon and the London Marathon, force runners through blocks and boroughs of densely packed buildings and labyrinthian streets. "The magic moments of Jamaica, of running in Negril, involve having the Seven Mile beach visible throughout the event and finishing the race by running into the Caribbean Sea," beamed Reggae Marathon sponsorship and marketing director, Diane Ellis. Unique Charm of the Reggae Marathon Held in the first blush of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, the marathon is a runner's escape from the seasonal chill that plagues northern countries. The Marathon team chose the early December start date to fill a gap in the busy Negril winter tourist season, making the Reggae Marathon the unofficial starting pistol for the winter season. Participants come for the race and stay to support local industries. They visit concerts, stay at hotels of all sizes, and partake in Negril and Ocho Rios' vibrant nightlife. "I never expected the finish to end at the beach," gushed filmmaker and Reggae Marathon ambassador, John Lewis. "I've lived in Miami for 20 years and have done races there, but we never ended up on the beach." The community vibe is a significant part of why Lewis will be going back for his second time this year. "At the end of the race, everybody congratulated each other, enjoyed each other's company, and actually hung out for a while."

and air so cold that it feels like shards of glass in your lungs with each inhale – none are conducive to comfortable running. The first leg of the Reggae Marathon journey is through a torch-lit path that opens up into the main stretch, offering a view of the iconic Seven Mile beach. Runners are enveloped by the clean morning air, and climate change permitting, a Christmas breeze (northerly winds visiting the island). The 'Reggae' in Reggae Marathon is more than a name; music is a fundamental aspect of the experience. The renowned Silver Birds Steel Band Orchestra plays at different legs, working through a discography of classic Jamaican songs and iconic pop covers. Mobile music DJs outfit their cars as mini sound systems and drive past booming music, everything from Reggae classics to Afrobeats chart-toppers, rallying the runners. The event finishes in front of the shoreline, and runners are encouraged to jog right into the sea for the perfect cool down. "The end of your race is the beginning of another party with Reggae, Red Stripe beer and fresh coconut water straight from the coconut.., and, most importantly, the Caribbean Sea, which is life-giving and healing just to soak in. Vacation starts up again!" beamed Savitc...Cont'd on page 12

Larry Savitch, a New Yorker and Reggae Marathon veteran, agreed with Lewis. "What has brought me back is that no other race I have ever participated in has given me so many friends, not just acquaintances, but real friends that I chat with several times a year and have seen outside of Negril." Attendance at the Reggae Marathon has steadily grown over the years. In 2022, almost 2000 participants from 35 different countries entered the event. Many came from the US, the UK, and Canada, all nations with large Jamaican diasporas, but participants also traveled from other Caribbean countries such as Trinidad & Tobago, eastern European countries like Poland, African countries such as Angola, and Asian countries like Japan, among many others. The growth is the result of determined, boots-on-the-ground work put in by the team behind Reggae Marathon. In the event's early years, a travel team would set up booths at the expos featured at larger, more established marathons, such as the New York Marathon and the Miami Marathon. Ellis theorizes that the novelty of a middle-to-long-distance event, in the world's capital of sprint racing, was enough to turn heads. On top of that, December is not an ideal season for marathon running in northern countries. Slippery surfaces that invite dangerous spills, bundles of clothes needed to stay warm but uncomfortable to move in for extended periods,

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Rum and Reggae Fest 2023

Pictures complements of Michelle Atlman/KUO Magazine

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The Season of Giving: Sharing Love and Gifts with the Caribbean The holiday season is not just a time of celebration and togetherness; it's also a season of giving, a time to show love and gratitude to our family and friends. For many in the Caribbean and the Caribbean diaspora, this spirit of giving often involves shipping food and gifts to loved ones, a cherished tradition that connects hearts across geographical distances.

Caribbean and bring a taste of home to those who are far away. Food is often a central component of these packages, as it has a unique power to evoke memories and emotions.

When these care packages arrive, it's not just about the contents; it's about the love and thoughtfulness behind them. Receiving a package from home brings a sense of comfort and connection, especially for those who may be feeling homesick The Caribbean is a region known for its cultural diversity. Its during the holiday season. unique blend of Indigenous, African, European, and Asian This tradition of shipping food and gifts to the Caribbean influences has given rise to a rich tapestry of traditions and fosters unity and togetherness, even across oceans. It's a customs. During the holiday season, these traditions come to testament to the enduring bonds of family and culture. In a life in vibrant and colorful ways. Each Caribbean island boasts world where physical distances often separate loved ones, these its own unique festivities, from parades and music festivals to packages serve as a lifeline of love and connection. religious observances and family gatherings

The season of giving and shipping food and gifts to the Caribbean is a beautiful expression of love and connection. It bridges the physical gaps between families and reinforces the importance of cultural heritage and tradition. Whether it's sharing a favorite meal, sending a heartfelt gift, or simply expressing love and gratitude, this tradition reminds us that the true spirit of the holidays transcends borders and oceans. It's a One of the most heartwarming ways to connect with loved season of giving that brings families closer and fills hearts with ones during the holidays is by sending care packages. These the warmth of home, no matter where they may be in the packages are filled with items that capture the essence of the world.

Many people from the Caribbean have left their homelands to seek opportunities abroad. As a result, families are often spread across the globe, living in different countries and continents. While this separation can be challenging, the holiday season offers a special opportunity for reconnection and expression of love.

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How Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon has won the heart of runners across the globe.... cont'd frpm page 10

It all combines to make the Reggae Marathon an excellent starting competition for those curious about long-distance running. "There's no better place to run a half marathon," Lewis proclaimed. "You can be competitive if you want, but you can also just enjoy your time there." Savitch again agreed. "If you want to have fun and enjoy the sunshine and music, this is the perfect race for rookies and seasoned runners," he said.

One of the partners is the Heart Foundation of Jamaica, which offers affordable medical care, including scans and testing for heart disease, and participants are encouraged to donate funds when possible. The marathon also partners with the SOS Children's Village in Kingston to bring on volunteers to the event. The children are transported to Negril and exposed to the marathon's best-in-class organization. This year's Marathon is on December 3, 2023, and promises the same one-of-a-kind combination of vibes, music, charity, and fun.

Karen Fuchs photography

Many groups compete in the event together, such as the Reggae Runnerz, a group of participants from the diaspora that includes anywhere between 200 and 450 members each year. This group has made sizable donations to the Green Island community, a small coastal town near Negril, helping to support the local high school and even funding excursions to the Penn Relays. Another group is a collective of medical practitioners who volunteer at Negril's clinics after participating. The charitable energy permeates throughout the event and trickles down from the organizers.

Karen Fuchs photography

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"JOIN US FOR THE 3RD ANNUAL PINE HILLS PARADE ON 9th DECEMBER" www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

HAIR WE GO AGAIN FOLKS

By Tony Deyal

When I was in my 40s, my friends and I used to joke that “three score and ten” had to be our success with women and the number we had dallied with. In our language, they were “scores” and we had indulged with scores of them. We really did not look too closely at the scores of women we spent time with and their scores. It is not that I was unaware the “three score and ten” was from the Bible (Psalm 90:10) which states, “The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” Now, as I close in on “four score”, not in ladies of the night or day but in age (80), it is a case of here today, gone tomorrow. However, long before that, with me and other men especially, but not totally, it is and has always been hair today and “done finish” or gone yesterday, today and worse, tomorrow. I remember my barber telling me, “Tony, you could put some colour in your hair you know.” I replied, “Not me. We heroes never die.” My friend Patrick who was there with me shouted, “Hair! Hair!” My son Zubin, when he was in his teens, used to joke about my hair-loss with comments like, “Daddy, you have atomic hair. Plenty fallout” and “You’re so bald Daddy, that even if we get you vex you can’t afford to blow your top.” He was not the only one to make fun of my baldness. One of my friends in the Canadian university I went to saw me reading a book by one of my favourite authors, P.G. Wodehouse. He advised me, “Tony, forget P.G. You should go for Steven King. He writes some hairraising tales.” Another friend recommended a new miracle drug for baldness that you had to rub on your head twice a day. “It doesn’t grow hair like some of the others,” he advised. “What it does is that it shrinks your head to fit your remaining hair.” Another, when I worked for PAHO, insisted that there was at least one advantage of not having any hair. He laughed, “You will definitely not have any use for keys.” While the others around us laughed, I was perplexed and asked, “What you mean by that?” He laughed even harder and then explained, “Well seeing that you lose your locks.” One day I was having some word-play fun with Zubin and I asked him, “What’s the difference between an ape, an orphan, a prince, and a bald man?” We all laughed at the answer – an ape has a hairy parent, an orphan has nary a parent, a prince is an heir apparent, and a bald man has no hair apparent. When the laughter died down, Zubin’s mom added, “You know about hair today, gone tomorrow? Well, yours left since last year.” My traditional response, though not as belligerent as before, has always been, “Just because there is a hole in the roof it does not mean that the fire inside is not still blazing hot.” I made sure that I looked deeply in my wife’s eyes when I said that. SHARING A STORY I dealt with Zubin very quickly by sharing a story from the work of the great American humourist, Erma Bombeck. She believed that you should never lend your car to anyone to whom you have given birth. Her son asked her for use of the “family” car. She demanded, “First, you have to get good marks in school, keep your room clean, make certain the yard is neat, and cut your hair. When you do that I will reconsider.”

Time and term exams passed and the young man said smiling, “Mom, I did very well in exams. I have been keeping my room neat and cleaning the yard. Can I use the car now?” His mother said, “All of that is true, but you didn’t cut your hair.” The boy replied, “But, mom, Jesus had long hair.” His mother replied, “Yes, son, you’re perfectly right. And he walked everywhere he went.” Unfortunately, Zubin no longer asks me to use the car. In return he cuts what is left of my hair. He used to drive me up a wall with his jokes about my hair-loss but now, armed with his cutting tools, he puts me on a chair and drives me up a Wahl (electric hair clipper). It is always a hairy situation and a very close shave.

Fortunately for me, I get badly sunburnt because of my medication. This at least saves me from the fate of the ancient Greek poet, Aeschylus, noted for his tragedies, who had one of his own when he became the earliest recorded death from baldness. An eagle, which had seized a tortoise and was looking to smash the reptile’s shell by letting it fall from a great height, mistook the poet’s bald head for a stone and dropped the tortoise on it. On the other hand, having great hair on a big head like mine, does not go down well all the time. A youngster who was getting more jokes at his expense than I got at PAHO came home very upset and in tears. He complained to his mother, “All the kids in school make fun of me. They say I have a big head.” His very solicitous mom comforted him by saying, “Don’t worry with them. They’re just a waste of time and envy your beautiful head full of hair and brains. All of them will get bald long before you and you would get a chance to laugh at them.” Then she told him, “Now stop crying. I want you to go to the store and buy a pound of rice and two pounds of potatoes for me. I have to cook dinner.” The boy asked, “Mom. Where’s the shopping bag? You know Neal and Massy now charges you for even plastic ones.” His mother replied, “What happen to you?, You know we don’t have any. Use your hat!” I have a hat that protects me from the sun. In any case, I can no longer scratch the few strands of hair left on my balding head until I come to terms with the fact that I am now “folically challenged”, and if I thank the Almighty at all it is not as an “elderly person” but as a “senior citizen” whose only consolation is that at my age hair loss is no longer “premature”. Like the movie-star, Clark Gable, it’s gone with the wind. What I take with me is this story. The US playwright, Marc Connelly, ran his hand over a friend’s bald head and said, “That feels like my wife’s behind.” His friend then stroked Connelly’s head and replied, “So it does.” *Tony Deyal was last seen embarrassed by the fact that when he heard Jamaica had a curling team, he thought it was hairsay.