Island Origins Magazine - Spring 2019 by islandsyndicate

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CONTENTS Spring | 2019

12 ASTRO YARDIES AND ALGO RIDDIMS

A RUM AFFAIR 2

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WELCOME TO LITTLE HAITI

BLACK FAITH â&#x2030; BLACK MAGIC

CREDITS PUBLISHER Calibe Thompson BRAND STRATEGY David I. Muir EDITOR Sonia Morgan ART DIRECTOR Vladan Dojcinovic CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sonia Morgan Andrew Leone Nathalee Hayden Tanya Ragbeer Bekim Betoni Rauseo Richard Wright Ghenete ‘G’ Wright Muir Hal Peat Dr. Shanequa Fleming Sharon Wong Hollis Jacinth Allen Monique McIntosh David I. Muir Calibe Thompson

6. 7.

HEALTH & BEAUTY A Healthy Whole You Engaging Children in Culture

INSPIRATION So You Want to Improve Your Life

10.

CULTURE The Indo-Caribbean Identity

25. 26. 28.

INVEST Overcoming Cultural Investment Bias 4 Steps to Bigger Wins Why A Second Home

30. 34.

STYLE & DESIGN Makeover Magic The List

36.

TRAVEL Beyond the Beach

40. 42. 44.

TASTE THE ISLANDS Restaurant Review: 925 Nuevo’s Cubano’s Recipes: Cornmeal Pudding, Sorrel Triple Fusion Restaurant Listing

46.

EVENT CALENDAR

48.

A FINAL THOUGHT Culturally Connected

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS David I. Muir Pitpony.Photography Jorge Royan Aliceba Venjhamin Reyes Martin Amado Carlos Quezeda Caswell Gordon ON THE COVER: The Culture Issue The joie de vivre inspired in Karla Ferguson by the history, art and culture that surround her at the Yeelen Gallery in Little Haiti, are captured in this vibrant movement. Karla is the Founder and Principal Advisor of the Yeelen Group, and an award-winning contemporary art dealer, art collector, creative designer, attorney and curator. Learn more at yeelengroup.com. See more on Little Haiti in our photo spread "Welcome to Little Haiti" (page 20). Photo by David I. Muir. Hair and makeup courtesy of Makeup by Rory Lee. Dress by Tanya Marie Design. Styling by Juli-Anne Lee.

Copyright © 2018 by Island Syndicate. All rights reserved. Island Origins Magazine is published by Island Syndicate. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a review. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at Island Syndicate, 1310 SW 2nd Ct #209, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312. Printed in the United States of America. Island Origins Magazine ℅ Island Syndicate 1310 SW 2nd Ct #209 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 417-812-5663 | islandoriginsmag.com support@islandsyndicate.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY // HEALTHY WHOLE YOU

A HEALTHY WHOLE YOU OUR MULTITASKING CULTURE OF JUGGLING WORK, HOME, FAMILY, AND OTHER OBLIGATIONS OFTEN KEEPS US IN AN UNENDING GRIND, CONTRIBUTING TO A NUMBER OF HEALTH ISSUES INCLUDING STRESS, DEPRESSION, ULCERS, AND CANCERS. WHILE MAINTAINING A HEALTHY DIET AND INCORPORATING EXERCISE INTO OUR ROUTINE IS HAMMERED INTO OUR BRAINS, NOT ENOUGH EMPHASIS IS PLACED ON OTHER FACTORS THAT CAN SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE OUR OVERALL HEALTH. WRITER STAFF WRITER PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

HERE ARE 5 OTHER AREAS THAT CAN GIVE US A HEALTH BOOST:

FELLOWSHIP

SPIRITUALITY

FAMILY

LEARNING

ACHIEVEMENT

We are relational beings who need human contact, so we should create opportunities for group interactions outside of work and home. Whether you find fellowship at church, with your friends at a new restaurant, or become involved in a charitable organization, it’s important for your mental health. Without it we can become lonely and depressed. Additionally, interacting with people of all ages, from different socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures, ideologies, and countries teaches us tolerance and acceptance.

Spirituality is that need to seek a personal connection with something bigger than ourselves. Religious people find a connection to their deity through prayer and chanting, while nonreligious people might connect with a higher power or with their inner spirit through nature, meditation, or yoga. No matter how we practice our spirituality, there is no denying its effects. In fact, studies have shown that meditation and other focus-based practices help to reduce stress, depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and other conditions, and encourage positive mental health.

Some might argue that being around family is bad for their health. Think decades-long squabbles, conflicting personalities, opposing political views, and the like. However, making a conscious effort to forgive past transgressions, exercising tolerance, and being more supportive are all good for you. Letting go of bad feelings can improve the immune system, lower blood pressure, increase lifespan, and have other positive outcomes. And... participating in activities and spending quality time with children both help to improve their self-esteem and reduce their likelihood of developing negative behaviors.

According to Harvard Medical School, to keep a sharp mind you have to keep learning, use all your senses, prioritize your brain use, and repeat what you want to know. Increasing brain activities promotes the growth of new brain cells and can make new neurological connections! It could be as simple as visiting a museum, playing scrabble, or learning to play an instrument. A healthy brain also needs rest, so take time to decompress—nap, meditate, explore nature, daydream, and sleep well.

There are some superhigh achievers among us—laser-focused on perfection and driven by the win. You don’t have to be one of those people to claim achievement in life. Finding purpose, even if it’s just in one area in your life, can give you the sense of accomplishment you crave. Whatever you want to achieve, put a plan in motion and follow through. Accomplishments trigger dopamine—the “feel-good” neurotransmitter in our brains. And we all want to feel good, right?

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ENGAGING CHILDREN IN CULTURE

WRITER ANDREW LEONE PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED SOUTH FLORIDA IS ONE OF THOSE RARE, genuinely diverse regions that encompasses and values a broad array of cultures and languages. In fact, there are currently 191 languages spoken in Broward County public schools. Each of these languages reflects families, histories, traditions, foods, music, and unique cultures. What a mix! In order to maintain and expand on this wonderful resource, it is important that children stay connected to their roots and learn to appreciate the diversity that exists in this neck of the woods. Children should be encouraged to participate and engage in the cultural activities and events that abound in South Florida, so they can learn about their roots and explore other ethnicities. Another valuable way to learn about cultures is through literature. In fact, the most important tool we can give children to foster learning and appreciation is a love of books and reading. Building early literacy fosters an expanded imagination and a propensity to dream big and achieve big things. The third grade is an important milestone because, simply put, until third grade, children learn to read. After third grade, they are reading to learn. If they are not proficient readers by then, they are more likely to fall behind their peers and eventually risk closing the doors to opportunities that come with education.

Instilling a love of reading and literacy in a child early on is also an important community investment. Strikingly, according to some statistics, two-thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by 4th grade will end up in jail or on welfare, and 85% of youth who interface with the juvenile justice system are functionally illiterate. That’s where we all come in—because almost everyone can be a mentor or tutor to a child and be an active participant in their academic success. A responsible, productive adult is an asset to his or her community. An incarcerated youth or adult is a cost burden and a lost opportunity. Engaging in support of literacy, tutoring, or mentoring is an investment we can all make for the greater good. The best reward of all is knowing a child’s horizons have been expanded by fostering in them a love of reading, learning, and culture.

INSPIRATION // SO YOU WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR LIFE HERE ARE 7 THINGS YOU MUST DO WHEN WORKING ON YOUR PERSONAL GOALS:

1 2

Always have a game plan.

Figure out a support system. Seek a coach, or tell people who will hold you accountable, and put your plan in writing so that you can easily track your progress.

SO YOU WANT TO

IMPROVE YOUR LIFE

WHILE WE ALL WANT TO BE HAPPY, MOST PEOPLE GO THROUGH LIFE FEELING UNFULFILLED. POSITIVITY GURUS RECOMMEND MEDITATION, LISTENING TO SOOTHING MUSIC, THINKING POSITIVE THOUGHTS, AND SPENDING TIME WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE AS WAYS TO HELP ACHIEVE HAPPINESS. BUT LET’S LOOK AT SOLVING THE HAPPINESS CONUNDRUM IN A MORE PRACTICAL WAY.

Take time to listen to your emotions. Are you feeling fearful or guilty? What specifically is causing these emotions and can you control it?

WRITER TANYA N. RAGBEER PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

THE WHEEL OF LIFE To sustain true happiness, we need to find personal balance, starting by looking at the facets of our lives as a whole. The Wheel of Life is a chart that shows your life broken down into 8 main categories: relationships, romance, money, fun and recreation, physical environment, health, career, and personal development. Rank each piece of the pie with a number from 1-10, 1 being least fulfilled and 10 being most fulfilled. Your low scores will reveal where you need to focus your attention. GOAL-SETTING Now that you have selected the areas of your life that need fulfillment, it’s time to set goals. Many of us take the annual New Year’s Resolution pilgrimage that either goes forgotten by Lent... or have made our goals so unrealistic that we gladly set them aside in short order, with optimistic plans to pick them up again “next year.”

Communicate your goal using positive language. For example, “I easily and effortlessly keep track of my calorie intake as I attain a more healthy lifestyle.” (Keep it in the present tense).

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Goal-setting doesn’t have to be painful, but goals should always be S.M.A.R.T: SPECIFIC What specifically are you trying to achieve? MEASURABLE How are you measuring your levels of success? ACHIEVABLE Is the bar set low enough for you to attain success, and are there gradual progressions to achieving your final goal? REASONABLE Are you really in the right frame of mind to take on such a challenge? TIME-ORIENTED What are your progressive deadlines? Tanya N. Ragbeer is a Certified Professional Life Coach who specializes in business and personal coaching. coachingwithtanya.com.

Center yourself each day— whether by meditating or taking some quiet time to focus.

And believe. Believe that you can attain your goal.

Finally, own the process, and understand that you deserve what you are striving to achieve.

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CULTURE // THE INDO-CARIBBEAN IDENTITY

THE INDOCARIBBEAN IDENTITY WITHIN THE MELDED CULTURES OF THE CARIBBEAN ARE PIECES OF A PAST LIVED BY OUR ANCESTORS—PLUCKED FROM THEIR HOMELANDS OR LURED TO THE NEW WORLD WITH PROMISES OF PROSPERITY. SOMETIMES THESE PIECES ARE MERE REMNANTS. AT OTHER TIMES, THEY’RE UNMISTAKABLE—LIKE OUR INDOCARIBBEAN HERITAGE, ESPECIALLY PROMINENT IN COUNTRIES LIKE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, AND GUYANA. IT IS CELEBRATED IN THE FORMS OF EAST INDIAN DRESS, FESTIVALS, AND FOOD, WHICH OVER TIME, HAVE BEEN EMBEDDED INTO THE VERY IDEA OF WHAT IT MEANS TO BE WEST INDIAN.

WRITER BEKIM BETONI RAUSEO PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

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WE SEE IT IN GOLD THREADS sewn into the hems of richly dyed silks, smell and taste it in heavily seasoned curries, and live it in myriad celebrations and festivals tightly woven into the fabric of our Caribbean existence. We can call a saree, a dhoti, or a kurta by its Indian name without even thinking twice. We know that deyas, little clay pots filled with hot coconut oil, are lit on the darkest day of the year to celebrate Deepavali, the Festival of Lights symbolizing the victory of good over evil. And, we also know that curried chicken with aloo and channa are not just fillings swathed with tender breads called roti, but staple foods for many. The Indo-Caribbean community’s culture and practices have crossed socio-political divides, just as East Indian indentured laborers moved across oceans during the mid to late 1800s. What we have embraced now as our Caribbean norms, took years to assimilate. But, just as kalapani—the journey across the black seas from Calcutta to the New World—was fraught with many hardships, equally was the acceptance of East Indian culture and heritage met with dissidence and contempt. SHAPED BY HERITAGE The Dalit—the lowest social group in India, the untouchables—included widows and separated women who couldn’t remarry, as well as single women who could not find husbands. At the outset of indentureship, it was usual for Dalit men to seek economic prosperity in the Caribbean, but by the 1800s, without a lucrative future in India, Dalit women held to the promise of the New World and sought out this life with less favor. These were the people who birthed East Indian values in the Caribbean and shaped what we understand of those cultures today. By way of the time-honored traditions passed down between generations of families, from the intimate practices in pujas (sacred ceremonies) to festivals like Hosay and Eid, the culture of this group has spread to include a plethora of food, music, dance, and art. LAND & IDENTITY By the end of indentureship in 1917, those who stayed behind secured parcels of land and began to carve their space in the earth. You see, for East Indians, land ownership is critical when establishing identity. It is spiritual. Land plus kinship represents a place in this world and with it, Indo-Caribbean people practiced their customs, culture, and values safely and largely uninterrupted. Indo-Caribbean people assimilated with Afro-Caribbeans throughout the

region, where the culture has resonated powerfully through preservation of traditional norms, religious practices, and spiritual observations from Hindu culture. “Douglas” (pronounced doog-laz) are the children of East Indian and African parents. The merging of their cultures is called “douglarization.” In the jhaji bundle—a makeshift suitcase—men and women brought seeds, plant trimmings, and spices from the East, that literally shaped the lands upon their arrival. From these cuttings and saplings, flowering plants such as tulsi (holy basil) are scattered across the countryside and guard many Hindu homes where jhandi flags (prayer flags) stand erect. Now, the islands of the Caribbean where East Indian indentured laborers settled are decorated with flowering plants that are integral to Hindu prayer and spiritual practice, as well as cuisine. These secret treasures are used to flavor foods and brew teas that cure common illnesses and maladies. CHANGING LANDSCAPE East Indian culture has also impacted the architectural landscape. The jhandi, colorful triangular flags tied to long bamboo poles and grouped together, mark the presence of Indo-Caribbean homes. In Trinidad, The Temple by the Sea, the colorful and detailed Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre, and its ornately decorated Hanuman Statue, shape the Indo-Caribbean landscape. Numerous masjids and mosques, their dome tops in resplendent shades of forest green supported by massive bone white walls and towers, are sprinkled across the countryside. It is in and around these places of worship that many festivals and ceremonies are observed. At Eid, for example, when the moon is carved into its distinct crescent shape, Muslims pray in the halls of their mosques to loudly celebrate the teachings of Mohammed and worship Allah. Also, to further celebrate the end of Ramadan (a holy period of fasting) during this period, the community feasts on a variety of sweet dishes if celebrating Eid-Al-Fitr, or salty dishes for Eid-ul-Adha, and share Eidi (gifts) with children while offering charity to the less fortunate. East Indian culture is prominent in Caribbean society today due to years of integration based on trying circumstances. It is now a multifaceted ideal that has transposed itself into subgenres of Caribbean music, dance, and daily life, having created transformed images of Indo-Caribbean identity. Known as Chutney, this modern genre of Indian culture has found its place too, and just like its condiment namesake, it is a fully integrated yet distinct and unique blend of flavors.

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FEATURE // ASTRO-YARDIES & ALGO-RIDDIMS

ASTROYARDIES & ALGORIDDIMS

A ROUGH GUIDE TO JAMAICAN AFROFUTURISM WHEN MARVEL’S BLACK PANTHER HIT THE BIG SCREEN LAST FEBRUARY, CARIBBEAN FOLK BEAMED WITH PRIDE TO SEE OURSELVES REPRESENTED IN WAKANDA, WITH ACTORS LIKE GUYANESE-BORN LETITIA WRIGHT (SHURI), WINSTON DUKE (M’BAKU) FROM TOBAGO, AND NABIYAH BE (NIGHTSHADE) THE BRAZILIAN-BORN DAUGHTER OF JAMAICA’S JIMMY CLIFF. EVEN MORE SIGNIFICANT, THIS EPIC FILM TOOK AFROFUTURISM FROM UNDERGROUND AND MADE IT A GLOBAL PHENOMENON. WRITER RICHARD M. WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BRUCE BAKER AFROFUTURISM IS A MOVEMENT that combines sci-fi, fantasy, folklore, ancestral wisdom, technology, and envisions futures from the perspective of the African Diaspora. Jamaica is fertile ground, humming life into all of these components. Afrofuturism is in the legacy of Maroons who organized rebellions to liberate enslaved Africans. They utilized the ancient technologies of drums and abeng horns to transmit long-distance messages, long before the advent of WhatsApp. It’s Marcus Garvey’s Black Star Liner, harnessing the galactic image of a starcruiser amongst “black stars” to galvanize black peo-

LEE “SCRATCH” PERRY

PHOTOGRAPHY PITPONY.PHOTOGRAPHY

ple across the world. It invited them to come aboard and be transported to the motherland—and a future with the humanity, self-knowledge, pride, cooperative economic sufficiency, and freedom we deserve. It’s Rex Nettleford and Louise Bennett-Coverley, who used their bodies as receptacles to store and transmit our folklore and heritage through dance and oral history. And there are many more visionaries, legends, and afrofuturist avatars in Jamaica. Grace Jones and Lee “Scratch” Perry represent our brightest, shining Sirius twin-stars in the constellation of contemporary Jamaican Afrofuturism.

Lee “Scratch” Perry, the dub pioneer who has described himself as the “Jamaican E.T.” is quoted as saying: “I see the studio must be like a living thing, a life itself… I put my mind into the machine and the machine perform reality. Invisible thought waves—you put them into the machine by sending them through the controls and the knobs or you jack it into the jack panel. The jack panel is the brain itself, so you got to patch up the brain and make the brain a living man…” He embodies the “Mad Scientist” archetype, engaging his mixing board like a living cyborg control panel for a sonic spaceship. He inspired other dub pioneers to follow suit in persona, giving rise to his peers, Scientist, and Mad Professor. Scratch’s esoteric techniques and signature sound became sought after by the likes of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Junior Murvin, The Heptones, and more. Some of Scratch’s most loved work came from his infamous laboratory of ritual and music, the Black Ark Studio. The Black Ark also evoked the afrofuturist Garveyite imagery of a vehicle destined to other liberating realms. At the helm of the Black Ark, delays and reverb effects would transmit echoes from the past into the present like the voices of ancestral griots. The listener is transported into vast and buoyant alternate realities, left to float like pungent ganja smoke in zero gravity orbits. The Jamaican E.T. is still touring today, catch him if you can!

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GRACE JONES “There was also a robotic quality to my performance, a mix of the human, the android, and the humanoid… I am not decoration; I am pure signal. I transmit.” – excerpt from Grace Jones memoirs, I Will Never Write My Memoirs, 2015 Simon & Schuster. Androgynous cultural icon, fashionista, musician, and movie star Grace Jones is known for music hits like “My Jamaican Guy,” and “Slave To The Rhythm,” as well as her dramatic roles like the outrageous and untameable “Stranje” in Boomerang (1992); the formidable warrior “Zula” in Conan The Destroyer (1984); and superhuman assassin “May Day” in the 1985 James Bond film, A View To A Kill. Her presence feels post-human. One could say that she has decolonized herself of the rigid gender boundaries historically imposed on black Jamaican women. In I Will Never Write My Memoirs, Jones writes about growing up in a very abusive fundamentalist Christian environment in Spanish Town, Jamaica. She went from literally being afraid of having her own thoughts, to become perhaps the most liberated woman on the planet, and perhaps the most potent archetype of The Minister’s Daughter. Her music blended soul, reggae, and art rock in ways that had not been done before, and she continues to push creative and social boundaries, as chronicled in her newest documentary, Grace Jones: Bloodlight And Bami.

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FEATURE // ASTRO-YARDIES & ALGO-RIDDIMS

AND THERE ARE MANY OTHERS REPPIN’ JAMAICAN AFROFUTURISM. LIMBER UP YOUR GOOGLE FINGER, AND STRAP IN FOR THE EXPRESS SHUTTLE THROUGH SOME MORE OF THE ASTRO-YARDIE GALAXY. VISUAL ARTISTS First stop, Kokab Zohoori-Dossa. In the truest sense, she makes fantastic portraits. She will even do commissioned portraits, transforming folks into creatures of myth and alternate dimensions. She says, “My influences come from the people—black people… if my art could be a portal to anywhere, I would say I would want it to be a portal to a place where everyone can be who they are, full of magic, innovation, and respect.” Oakland’s Paul Lewin and Jamaica’s Taj Francis are two other visual artists whose otherworldly visions are worth checking out.

MOVING VISIONS Brown Girl Begins by Caribbean-Canadian filmmaker Sharon Lewis is the 2018 film version of Jamaican-Canadian Sci-fi author Nalo Hopkinson’s first novel, Brown Girl In The Ring. Both pieces are full of intrigue, AfroCaribbean folklore, and magical realism. Check both out! Madge Sinclair (April 28, 1940 – December 20, 1995) Long before Wakanda, there was Zamunda! A loved staple in ‘80s Black Cinema, Coming To America portrays the journey of Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) from the fictional African country of Zamunda, and Madge Sinclair played his Queen Mother. Sinclair also played Captain Silva La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation.

YARDIE ALGO-RIDDIMS KAT C.H.R. (@kat_c.h.r) embodies so much that is Jamaican Afrofuturism. The tattooed singer gives a very punk presence while playing guitar, and their music runs the gamut from rock to soul, to reggae, and more. Kat continues the tradition of transcending gender and unapologetically goes by the pronouns “they” and “them” while living in Jamaica (Respect!!). They go on to say: “If my art were to take me anywhere, I would want it to be to a dimension where all people are free to be who they are… Transport me to a world where the sound of everyone marching to the beat of their own drum drowns out all fears.” ) Transdub Massiv, whose 2005 debut album Negril To Kingston City became a timeless future dub cult classic. It features Meshell Ndegeocello on bass, Sizzla, Ce’cile, Tami Chynn, Jovi Rockwell, Rootz Underground, and more. Farenheit sings on “Moonrise Dub,” as someone sending a love message while orbiting the earth from space. I mean, it doesn’t get more afrofuturistic than that! (on Spotify & SoundCloud). Enjoy the new sights, sounds, and visions! May they inspire liberating and creative futures for you too.

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FEATURE // BLACK FAITH ≠ BLACK MAGIC

BLACK FAITH

Santeros perform a ceremony called “Cajon de Muertos” in Havana, Cuba.

≠ BLACK MAGIC CARIBBEAN PEOPLE ARE IMMENSELY PROUD OF OUR CULTURES. WE BRAG ABOUT OUR FOOD, MUSIC, DANCE, ATHLETIC PROWESS, AND MANY OTHER ASPECTS OF OUR DISTINCT CARIBBEANNESS. BUT WHEN IT COMES TO HOMEGROWN RELIGIONS, MUM’S THE WORD. I WANTED TO UNDERSTAND WHY WE DON’T KNOW MUCH ABOUT THE RELIGIONS GROUNDED IN OUR AFRICAN HERITAGE, LIKE OBEAH, VOODOO, SANTERIA, AND EVEN THE INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED RASTAFARI, WHY WE USUALLY THINK THEY’RE NEGATIVE, AND WHETHER THERE’S A PATH TO CHANGING THAT PERCEPTION. WRITER GHENETE “G” WRIGHT MUIR PHOTOGRAPHY JORGE ROYAN (LEFT), ALICEBA (RIGHT)

PERCEPTION PROBLEM With tell-tale dreadlocks, and depending on the sect, headwraps, floorlength gowns, and their holy sacrament—ganja—Rastafarians are easily identifiable, and their religion is known worldwide. Conceived in Jamaica in the 1930s, this movement combined Christianity, pan-Africanism, and holistic consciousness as a way of life. Over the years, Rastas have gained great credibility and acceptance thanks to ambassadors like Bob Marley, and the gospel of Rasta—reggae music. But I remember when Rastas were

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severely mistreated, discriminated against, and feared for being “dreadful.” While some people may view their beliefs as misguided, Rastas aren’t dismissed as evil, unlike practitioners of some older Caribbean religions. Santeria (honor of the saints), a Spanish-Yoruba-Catholic hybrid religion founded in Cuba, teaches belief in one God served by a number of spirits. Voodoo, an African-Catholic belief system practiced in Haiti and other African diasporas, is also monotheistic, and involves art and the spirits of nature in worship. Obeah, practiced in Trinidad, Jamaica, The Bahamas,

Swearing-in ceremony of Haitian voodoo clergy

and a number of other Caribbean countries, is based on ancestral healing and spirituality—much like the way Catholicism calls on various saints when intercession is needed. All three believe in spirit possession, and all three are looked upon with scorn, fear and even contempt by Caribbean and non-Caribbean people alike. My research led me to believe that our generally negative perception of these religions is either based on their clandestine character, residual fear of anything based in African roots (instilled by colonialism), or the fact that we just don’t care to understand them. COLONIAL-MINDED RACISM We know the history. Enslaved Africans taken to the Caribbean were forbidden to practice many of their cultural norms or native religions, which were feared by slaveholders. The colonizers portrayed African religions as sorcery, “black magic,” and tools to hurt others. Despite this, the oppressed peoples secretly held on to what they could, and within this new reality, our Caribbean religions emerged. At the time, practicing any African religion could be punishable by death, which meant they had to be shrouded in secrecy—an essential element of their survival and still very much a part of their practice to date. Even researching this article confirmed how inaccessible these religions are, and how unwilling practitioners are to talk openly about them. However, I did get some responses from a Facebook post questioning where we stand on Voodoo, Santeria, and Obeah. “Coming from a Trinidadian background, we were taught to stay away from these religions because of the backlash that follows when you try to manipulate the spirit world for your own good,” writes Natalie who views them as ‘dark arts.’ Rich, a staunch practitioner of the African Yoruba religion says, “Yoruba, one of the main roots of traditional African religions in the Caribbean, has been a religion for 5,000 years, approximately 3,000 years before Christ. To say that no African religion has the status of religion

strikes me as colonial-minded racism.” In some circles, Santeria is acceptable, but for one South Florida santera we heard from, it is still taboo to her family and circle of friends. In fact, because of it, she no longer has a relationship with her mother, a staunch Christian from Jamaica. She says, “The slave trade still has a strong hold on our society and you can see the consequences and repercussions of it, especially with religion.” Of all the African-derived religions in the Caribbean, Voodoo is probably the most feared. During the Haitian Revolution—the only successful revolt of enslaved people in the Caribbean—Voodoo played a major role. Even today the film industry continues to use the imagery of Voodoo dolls and zombies to present the belief system as “black magic.” It was refreshing to hear from Haitian-American Alex, who says, “Voodoo is the most inclusive, peaceful religion in my country, but colonialism was so perfected that centuries later, even with 100% of the colonizers gone, we still demonize our spirituality.” ALTERING OUR PERSPECTIVE I was perhaps in first grade when my father told me Jesus did not look like the depiction we most often see. “Listen to the description of Jesus… ‘like wool,’” he said, grasping my hair. It dawned on me then that what I was being taught in my Christian elementary school was not necessarily fact, but rather versions of someone else’s reality. In the context of this article, that understanding begs the question: what makes mainstream faiths such as Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, and Islam legitimate if African-derived Caribbean faiths are not. But that’s a deeper discussion for another time. Regardless of our current belief systems, it may enhance our connection to our own history if we stop looking at our African-derived religions through the colonial lens. Let’s take time to understand and celebrate them like we do the features, music, dance, culture, and folklore we so proudly also inherited from Mother Africa.

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FEATURE // A RUM AFFAIR

A RUM AFFAIR A KEY INGREDIENT IN UMBRELLA COCKTAILS CASUALLY SIPPED AT HOTEL POOL SIDES, A STAPLE AT STREETSIDE BAR GATHERINGS AND IMPROMPTU LIMING SESSIONS, AND AN ESSENTIAL SPIRIT AT WAKES, FESTIVALS, AND JUST ABOUT EVERY CELEBRATION, RUM IS UNDENIABLY A CORE COMPONENT OF CARIBBEAN CULTURE. NOW, WITH THE IDENTITY OF RUM ITSELF DEVELOPING FROM A LESSER-KNOWN SPIRIT INTO A GLOBALLY APPRECIATED AND MORE WIDELY PRODUCED LIQUEUR—FROM ASIA TO EUROPE— WHAT REMAINS NOTICEABLE IS HOW ITS CARIBBEAN IDENTITY AND DISTILLATION TECHNIQUES CONTINUE TO BE CENTRAL COMPONENTS IN THIS EXPANDING UNIVERSE. WRITER HAL PEAT PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

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A SPECTRUM OF LEGACY and still-emerging brands bearing a Caribbean identity presented their current collection of rums—dark, light, and aged—to the equally broad range of consumer and business audiences at the 2018 Miami Rum Renaissance Festival. THE LEGENDARY LABELS: LEVERAGING TRADITION AND INNOVATION A tradition built on centuries of well-maintained distilling processes remains at the heart of the region’s legacy labels. Still, the marketplace of the 21st century also requires a different level of innovation and outreach. Today’s marketing strategies are diligent in including presence and interaction at both regional and international events. The two longtime and distinct rum production legacies within the wider context of Caribbean rum are of course classic (British and Spanish) molasses-derived rums, and the agricultural (rhum agricole) rums of the French Caribbean. Both have continued to expand their appeal in the wider world of rum appreciation. And while it may be the former that have had a start in past decades thanks to the vast presence of names like Bacardi or Appleton—more recently, rhum agricole labels with distilleries around the French West Indies have seen huge headway into North American awareness. Trois Rivières is noteworthy for its legacy on Martinique as a rhum producer dating back some 350 years. As part of the brand’s promotional strategy, brand builder and importer for this Martinique label, Jean-François Bonneté, explores its name and history in a master class seminar. With a birthplace and identity dating back to the 18th century, Jamaica’s Worthy Park Estate today draws on that deep legacy to present its line of RumBar Gold, Silver, and White Overproof rums to the contemporary world. Connoisseurs and new fans alike find authenticity in Worthy Park Estate’s origins and present-day operation. It remains a single estate rum encompassing all the key features—cane fields, sugar factory, and distillery—all at the same centuries-old location. Only now has it also taken the significant step of reaching to wider audiences with distribution into North American markets. Worthy Park’s export sales manager Alexander Kong explains, “Our focus for the short-to-midterm is on working with our state[side] distributors on introducing the brands “officially” into the market, with a big part of our launch being educating both the on and off trade markets on what makes Jamaican rum unique, and Worthy Park’s place in the Jamaican rum market.” About the perceptual change of rum itself, Kong observes, “From our perspective, it is not necessarily the revolution in how we are making rum, but a revolution in how rum is being received on the global stage. As a category, many rum producers have been trying hard to move past the “pirate” and “cheap umbrella drinks” category to being recognized for the beautiful and diverse spirit that it is.”

The marketers of Mount Gay, Barbados’ pre-eminent legacy brand, are also highly conscious of the need for a multi-faceted approach in engaging the evolving rum landscape. When asked about its current promotional and distributional models, Mount Gay’s brand director Dorothee Heriard Dubreuil points to how “Mount Gay Rum has been working to raise brand awareness among a targeted consumer group through the new campaign, ‘Time Well Spent.’ This campaign promotes bonding with friends over Mount Gay Rum cocktails after a shared passion, such as sailing or skiing. To reach these consumers, Mount Gay Rum has been investing more into earned and paid media along with consumer experiential activations such as ski resort and sailing regatta pop-ups.” EMERGING NAMES: TRADITIONAL DISTILLING METHODS, NEW PRODUCTION MODELS Neptune Rum, an emerging Barbadian label, is making its mark competitively at rum events while also seeking its footing well beyond Barbados. It is distilled and aged at the family-owned Foursquare Rum Distillery, set within a former 17th-century sugarcane plantation. Richard Davies, Neptune’s enthusiastic founder and proprietor, is a former London restaurateur and bartender who fell in love with Barbados’ rum legacy. “Neptune Rum is distilled and aged in Barbados, and the most important thing about that actually is being aged in Barbados... in that humidity, that turbocharges the aging process,” Davies emphasizes. And Neptune is truly making its mark, earning the coveted spot as the most awarded rum of 2018, with 27 international titles. They’ve also been voted “Barbados Rum of the Year” twice. That willingness to retain a fundamental tie with Caribbean authenticity, while carving their own paths toward broad distribution, seems to be the underlying approach of emerging names from the region. As Rum Renaissance founder Rob Burr observes, having welcomed old and new Caribbean exhibitors for over a decade: “Rare bottlings, vintage expressions, and small batch specialty products from producers like Plantation, Mezan, or Companie des Indies are examples of the growing trend of boutique products aimed at collectors and connoisseurs of fine aged rum. It’s just not possible to classify the rum category as ordinary or unremarkable anymore.” Indeed, earliest Caribbean rum roots were largely confined to communal rum bars on the one hand, or at the other extreme, served to elite guests at George Washington’s wedding reception. As rum’s future unfolds, its proprietors and innovators will continue to build on that widening connection to an appreciative audience of connoisseurs of all levels of the world of liqueurs. And while the legacy may well resonate differently with rum’s many new and different friends beyond the Caribbean itself, the taste and the story it tells will always speak authentically of its island origins.

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FEATURE // WELCOME TO LITTLE HAITI

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PHOTO JOURNAL

WELCOME TO

LITTLE HAITI DAVID I. MUIR, THE ARTIST AUTHOR BEHIND ACCLAIMED COFFEE TABLE PHOTOBOOK PIECES OF JAMAICA, SHARES A COLLECTION OF AUTHENTIC SCENES FROM AROUND LITTLE HAITI.

Little Haiti Cultural Complex is a colorful hub of activity, brightening the landscape of the Little Haiti neighborhood with an energy that reflects the spirit of the entire Caribbean community.

SETTING THE SCENE | The Tap Tap bus is used to offer tours of the community, bringing visitors who buy food, jewelry, and other products available at, and around the complex. WELCOME TO LITTLE HAITI | (Opposite Top) The mural is painted on the street just south of the Cultural Complex. (Opposite Bottom) Louis Rosemondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work is prominently displayed throughout the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, where he was the sole artist painting on this day.

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FEATURE // WELCOME TO LITTLE HAITI

A CHEFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LIFE | There are usually multiple food vendors on site. In this vignette, the vegan Rasta chef owns a restaurant, but he sets up outside of the Little Haiti Cultural Center as well, to supplementand promote his business. The soup lady has lots of traffic for her easy, grab-and-go meal in a cup. Chicken on the grill is an easily recognizable offering. The smoke from the pan is a beacon to hungry folks within smelling distance.

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EASY SKANKINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; | In the middle of the day, in the dimly lit interior of the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, with no apparent rhyme or reason folks just get up and dance to the rhythmic island music playing in the background. Having fun seems to just be a part of who this community is. The group below is enjoying a rousing game of ludo. The pleasant proprietor of the healthy food cafe encourages a laid back atmosphere; colorful artwork in the space adds to the vibrant ambiance.

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FEATURE // WELCOME TO LITTLE HAITI

HAIR HERE | Just Stars barber shop in the heart of Little Haiti is a welcoming space with lots of barbers and lots of customers to shape up. Pool tables and comfy sofas let clients know they can enjoy their grooming experience in style. Inside the Cultural Complex, a vendor selling personal care products has some hands on interaction with her buyer. The inviting space fosters an unspoken familial energy, allowing a special kind of personal connection.

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OVERCOMING CULTURAL INVESTMENT BIAS

WRITER NATHALEE HAYDEN

Reality check: Did you know that cultural biases can affect the way you invest, including in real estate? Emotional responses to past experience, as well as demographics, and socio-economic biases, can cripple sound decisionmaking and deter novice investors from their goal of earning great money. After all, “because my parents always said...” is probably not the best basis for buying property, especially when you’ve overlooked other important factors like location and potential for appreciation. Remember this--your return on investment will always have way more profit potential than your bias. Let’s begin to change the way we view real estate, not through the lens of celebrity-style investing, but rather based on real world trends specific to your locale, investment appetite, and tolerance. For the more seasoned investor, look at the before and after of your real estate transactions, and determine whether what you have is, or is not, what you wanted. Even if you’ve broken free of your cultural biases, working with the advice of a knowledgeable broker can help you base your decisions on sound principles to better protect from loses. Implementing tax shelters, for example, can improve your return on investment, and protect your cash flow with better leveraging. Take a step back and evaluate whether cultural influences are, in fact, affecting the way you invest and your ultimate success. Real estate does not have a 7 day return policy once purchased. Based on 18 years of experience, I strongly believe in consulting with your broker before you get started on any new project.

HAYDEN PROPERTIES AND ASSOCIATES, INC IS A BOUTIQUE FIRM THAT SPECIALIZING IN THE SALE AND ACQUISITION OF REAL ESTATE PROPERTY WHICH INCLUDES MULTI-FAMILY AND COMMERCIAL INVESTING.

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INSPIRATION // CREATING BIGGER WINS

4 STEPS

TO CREATING BIGGER WINS

IN 2019

WRITER DR. SHANEQUA FLEMING PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

AS EACH OLD YEAR WINDS DOWN, ENTREPRENEURS FOCUS ON SETTING GOALS TO IMPROVE AND/OR ENHANCE THEIR BUSINESSES. EVERY EXPERT WILL CLAIM TO HAVE SUREFIRE STRATEGIES TO ACCOMPLISH ANY GOAL. I BELIEVE THEY CAN ALL BE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE IF WE SUPPLEMENT THESE GOAL-SETTING STRATEGIES WITH FOUR SIMPLE PRACTICES. REFLECT ON THE PAST YEAR Before you begin to laundry list your “Things to Accomplish in 2019,” reflect on the last 10 months of 2018. What worked well in your business? Write down your successes. Is there a product and/or service that really met your clients’ needs? Is there a specific social media platform or marketing strategy that resulted in great engagement, interaction, and traction? Use data you’ve collected including client satisfaction surveys, financial statements, and even your calendar to get your answers. What drained you or didn’t work so well? There is no need to continue to invest time, money, or other resources in ways that didn’t help you get the desired results. Evaluate whether or not you’re getting a return on your investment. For instance, are all of those lunch meetings costing you, or helping to build high-quality relationships and get new clients? What won’t you change or do differently? When we find things that work really well for us or our businesses, we should leverage them to create more of the results we want in other areas of significance. I call these anchors. Dedicating one day a month to a quality inventory of every aspect of how your time is spent can keep you focused and committed, and may accelerate the time it takes to realize many of your goals.

GIVE THANKS When we’re are grateful for what we already have, we will naturally attract more. Make a list of everything and everyone for which you are grateful, and why you appreciate them. Then find a unique and personal way to express your gratitude. Take people out to lunch, send them some flowers, or send a personal, handwritten note. These actions never seem to lose their appeal.

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SET GOALS YOU REALLY WANT TO ACCOMPLISH A new year calls for new targets. Set goals that stretch you beyond what you’ve done before, and take actions that move you closer to those goals. Results happen first in the mind, so elevate your thinking and make a wholehearted commitment. Set 3-4 goals. Setting more than 4 goals often causes you to spread your focus too thin, leading to unfulfillment and disappointment.

RECHARGE YOUR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT The last practice I’ll recommend is to take the last few weeks of the year to wind down and recharge. Rest and rejuvenation are absolutely critical to your health and the success of your business. For entrepreneurs and solopreneurs, setting aside two weeks might be challenging, but just take as much time as you can to disconnect totally from work and recharge. Spend time in prayer and meditation, journal, take a vacation, or even take daily naps. Trust me! All of these things help you to refocus and build the necessary momentum for you to have a January that begins with early wins. As the year progresses, I encourage you to take inventory of how consistent you are with these practices. If a monthly review is too frequent for you, consider a quarterly inventory to help you stay on track, and committed to achieving your goals.

Cheers to a highly impactful and successful 2019! Dr. Shanequa Fleming, MBA, is the founder & CEO of Perfect Solutions Consulting Group, Inc.

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INVEST // WHY A SECOND HOME

A SECOND HOME WRITER SHARON WONG HOLLIS & JACINTH ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN REAL ESTATE HISTORY, the primary motivation for owners of second homes is rental income potential. If you’re thinking of acquiring a second home as an income-generating asset, it’s useful to know the advantages, disadvantages, and other things to consider before taking the plunge. Why buy a second home? If you’re making good money, have paid off the mortgage on your primary home or soon will, have a steady income, good credit, and see potentially profitable opportunities in the market, you might be a good candidate for a second home purchase.

FIRST, ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS:

Do I want an investment property, a vacation property, or both? This may be guided by factors like personal preference, budget, or current market conditions.

Can I access sufficient cash or financing? Most buyers pay for their second homes with a down payment of approximately 20% and a loan for the remaining amount. Sometimes they’ll partner with another purchaser as a money-saving approach.

Where and what type of home will I buy? The strength of the local economy, trends in resale values, convenience and amenities, property tax rates, quality of local schools, and medical care are all factors to consider. Deciding on whether a single-family home, condo, or townhouse will be your best purchase option depends on cost, location, and upkeep.

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HERE ARE SOME WAYS YOU MIGHT BENEFIT FROM PURCHASING A SECOND HOME AS AN INCOME PROPERTY: INCREASE IN WEALTH A house is usually your biggest asset, so why not buy another to increase your wealth? This could be profitable if the mortgage and upkeep costs are covered by rental income. “Passive” real-estate income such as this can help diversify your portfolio, offer a lucrative return on investment, and provide a level of financial security. LOW INTEREST RATES & TAX BENEFITS Buying a second home in today’s market allows you to take advantage of historically low

interest rates (average 4.35% in 2018), and tax deductions like the interest on your mortgage, property taxes, and maintenance expenses. The property could also be a fixed source of income for you after retirement. VACATION RENTAL You can invest near beach areas to generate income through seasonal rentals or as an Airbnb property. Additionally, in the off-season, you’ll have opportunities to relax with family and friends.

ALTHOUGH THE BENEFITS ARE FANTASTIC, YOU SHOULD ALSO CONSIDER THE DISADVANTAGES: ENORMOUS RESPONSIBILITIES When you’re the landlord, you’re the one who’s called to fix a broken HVAC or leaky roof. Depending on whether it’s a single-family home or townhome, you may have to provide yard maintenance. And, if the occupant sustains an injury in the home, you might be liable. HOA FEES & RULES If the property you purchase is governed by a homeowner’s association, you might end up paying quite a bit in HOA fees, and you may

have to be compliant with stringent property rules and regulations. For example, some associations do not allow rentals in the first year. TENANT RISK One of the downsides of dealing with tenants is they can be unpredictable. You might end up with responsible tenants who pay on time and take care of your property. On the flipside, you might get tenants who don’t pay on time and/ or destroy your property—costing you both time and money.

Always remember that a licensed and experienced real estate agent is vital to helping you navigate current market values and cost-benefit analyses if and when you decide to invest in a second home.

HOMES THAT MATCH

LIFE + STYLE

SHARON WONG HOLLIS

InterAction Realty info@SharonWhollis.com

www.SharonWhollis.com

954.295.9282

7801 W. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33351 Each office is independently owned and operated

STYLE & DESIGN // MAKEOVER MAGIC

MAKEOVER

MAGIC WHEN THE REALITY OF BALANCING FAMILY, PERSONAL LIFE, AND A PAYCHECK SETS IN, IT’S EASY TO GET COMFORTABLE LIVING IN SPACES THAT FALL SADLY SHORT OF OUR DESIRES. THAT HAND-ME-DOWN SOFA AND DULL CARPET ARE JUST ENOUGH TO GET BY, BUT THEY FAIL TO INSPIRE OR CELEBRATE WHO WE REALLY ARE. IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THIS WAY, SAYS DESIGN EXPERT AND HOST/PRODUCER OF TV SHOW SOFLO HOME PROJECT MARTIN AMADO, WHO SPECIALIZES IN CREATING STUNNING TRANSFORMATIONS FOR HOMEOWNERS IN NEED OF CHANGE.

WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH PHOTOGRAPHY VENJHAMIN REYES

WITH A FEW TRICKS OF THE TRADE, argues Amado, it’s so easy to significantly upgrade your home’s style quotient. His new book One-Day Room Makeovers shares the three-step design process behind his show’s dramatic revamps, focusing on walls, furniture, and accessories to create the spectacular rooms his clients’ desire. Each chapter also includes inspirational photos and affordable DIY projects to recreate a certain look. “My goal is to empower the homeowner to become their own DIY designer,” Amado explains. For the Miami native, home is more than just a place to rest your

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head. Amado’s inspiration comes from his tight-knit family, particularly his grandparents who escaped their native Cuba to start life over in the U.S. In fact, he dedicated the book to his beloved grandmother Noma Fabelo Cue Sosa, who passed away in 2017. “Designing is about creating that beautiful connection between home and heart,” says Amado, adding that “it’s so important to enjoy our homes every day. Whether you rent or own, you still deserve that.” To inspire your style overhaul, the designer broke down the process behind these four stunning transformations.

MARTIN AMADO

lounging. An upholstered coffee table adds softness, while matching end tables replace the old, makeshift TV trays and help ground the room. To add an extra layer of luxe, he also created a DIY barninspired wall panel, using basic pine planks and wood stains of various shades. “I knew we needed a wow statement,” says Amado. “A wood plank wall is the perfect way to bring in that modern industrial vibe.” This project can also be adapted easily for other purposes, like a headboard.

BEFORE

DINING ROOM: FARMHOUSE CHARM Starting from scratch in a new home, this family had their heart set on a farmhouse-inspired dining room, “but they wanted a more formal version of the style.” To strike this balance, the designer skipped the readymade dining set and instead paired a rustic trestle table with sleek velvety seating. “I always advise homeowners to mix and match,” says Amado about creating a more eclectic style. “Sometimes it’s better and more affordable to buy pieces from different collections to create a personal look.” MARTIN AMADO

LIVING ROOM: COZY MODERN For this living room, the close-knit family wanted “something comfortable and loungy,” with touches of modern industrial. Choosing the right furniture took top priority, as the previous sofas were too clunky and discordant to work for the family’s needs. Investing in the one perfect piece that suits your style, says Amado, “can be the best way to stretch your decorating dollars.” The sleek chaise sectional fits the bill, adding a modern edge while providing plenty of room for

He also added a whitewashed sideboard to accommodate more decorative pieces, like an elegant round mirror and chrome side lamps. The right lighting is also crucial to creating a composed dining space, he observes. “A dining table and a good light fixture must go hand-in-hand to create a focal point for a dining room.” Here the designer focused the eye with a bold globe chandelier in a rustic finish, and added candles for ambiance. “Don’t save your nice things only for special occasions. Little things like candles and fresh flowers bring the decor to a new level.”

BEFORE

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MARTIN AMADO

STYLE & DESIGN // MAKEOVER MAGIC

BEFORE

painting a jolt of color on the ceiling. Here, Amado illuminates the beautiful tray ceiling with metallic paint, made even more dramatic with a new gilded chandelier. “When you have such architectural features, it’s impor-

tant to bring them out,” he says. One thing you won’t find in this bedroom, however, is a desk. “I try to persuade clients away from a work area in the bedroom... this space should be your oasis.”

OUTDOOR LIVING: PERSONAL PARADISE According to Amado, in Florida, “all outdoor spaces are extensions of our home. If you don’t decorate these spaces so you can enjoy them, you’re losing valuable square footage.” With this outlook in mind, Amado brought an underutilized courtyard to life. “It was the first thing you see when you enter the house, so we couldn’t leave that blank.” To break up the surrounding hardscape, he got creative with artificial turf for an inventive DIY project, installing strips of faux ivy to mimic tradi-

tional wall paneling, and plush astroturf carpeting to define the space. To accessorize, he also added outdoor lanterns, hardy potted plants for additional texture, and a massive wrought iron mirror that will naturally weather into a vintage patina finish. For the furniture pieces, though the designer enjoys a more eclectic mix indoors, when designing outside “I like using a complete set, so there’s uniformity in the materials.” This chic aluminum set with a faux teak texture was a clearance find at $500—a lesson, Amado adds, “to always shop clearance first.”

BEFORE

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MARTIN AMADO

BEDROOM: RESTFUL RETREAT A master bedroom “should be your sanctuary at the end of the day,” says Amado, who infused a hotel-chic atmosphere for this project. He focused on creating luxurious softness with the furnishings and accessories. A seating area adds another moment of repose, styled with a plush area rug and plenty of throw pillows and blankets in soft hues. “I also love using upholstered headboards,” he shares. “They add a more feminine quality in the space.” For an extra dose of glam, the designer also recommends highlighting “the fifth wall” by

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THE LIST GIFTS FOR THE FAMILY



BIGLOVE

Colorful, whimsical creations with positive messages of love, peace, happiness, and freedom—inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi. The Love Backpack is roomy, durable, eco-friendly, and handcrafted in Puerto Rico. 

$49 randsofpuertorico.com

WILLOW MINT PROPS

Super-cute for newborns and the perfect gift for an expectant mom, this newborn night cap and footie romper is just one of the sets by designer Nicole Ricca. $56 willowmintprops.com



ANCESTRY BY XC

Bamboo arms and frame bring Caribbean charm to eye-catching sunglasses skilfully crafted in Puerto Rico. Featured here is Andreus, for him. $60 brandsofpuertorico.com

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OFFERINGS JEWELRY

An exquisite statement ring handcrafted by artisans, using faceted Caribbean Quartz in serene teal and Opal in hues of blue, set in shiny 925 sterling silver. $139 offeringsjewelry.com 

JABONES ESPERANZA

Created to empower Dominican women, Jabones Esperanza produces natural, artisan bar soaps handmade with fresh, aromatic ingredients in “flavors” like Coconut, Aloe Vera, and Moringa. $3.99 brandsofdominicanrepublic.com

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THE LIST GIFTS FOR THE FAMILY



BAUGHAUS DESIGN STUDIO

Art meets function in ceramic home goods meticulously handcrafted in Jamaica. A cedar handle warms up the crisp, white porcelain UO Mug featured here. $45 baughausdesign.com



ENBOIS ORIGINALS

It’s “The Weekend,” skillfully crafted from recycled nylon, cotton canvas, and vegan leather. Stylish, spacious, durable. For every purchase of an Enbois product, a tree is planted in Haiti. $70 enbois-originals.com

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MAKEUP BY RORY LEE

Paraben-free products for lips, eyes, and face are enriched with vitamins and natural oils. Ideal for everyday wear or special occasions. $15 - $35 makeupbyrorylee.com

 STRING THEORY JEWELRY

Using guitar strings, embellished with faceted crystals and cute metal charms, designer Amanda Wells crafts fantastic bracelets, bangles, and rings that are “music to your eyes.” $60 stringtheoryjewelry.us



ISLAND TIME WATCH COMPANY

Merging sleek design with a laid-back island life philosophy, the makers of the FOUR TWENTY SS remind wearers to relax, move to the reggae beat, and live life at the pace of island time. $329 islandtimewatch.com

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TRAVEL // BEYOND THE BEACH

BEYOND THE BEACH BESTOWED WITH SUGAR-SAND BEACHES AND CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS, IT’S EASY TO UNDERSTAND WHY CARIBBEAN COASTAL ATTRACTIONS CLAIM THE SPOTLIGHT. BUT THE REGION ALSO ENJOYS A ROBUST CULTURAL LEGACY, OFFERING FASCINATING ACTIVITIES THAT OFTEN FALL UNDER THE RADAR FOR VISITORS AND LOCALS ALIKE. THESE VITAL ATTRACTIONS CARRY THE CARIBBEAN’S CULTURAL HEART AND MAINTAIN IMMENSE SIGNIFICANCE, EVEN AS HARSH STORMS SOMETIMES BATTER ITS NATURAL BEAUTY. HERE, WE’VE ROUNDED UP THE REGION’S CULTURAL TREASURES THAT BEG FURTHER EXPLORATION, FROM TEMPLES TO SANCTUARIES OF ART. WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH

HAVANA, CUBA

FROM NATIONAL STALWARTS TO BREAKTHROUGH EXPERIMENTS, HAVANA’S ARTISTIC LIGHT BURNS BRIGHT. BALLET NACIONAL DE CUBA As one of the most prestigious dance companies in the world, Ballet Nacional de Cuba stands today as Havana’s cultural beacon. Founded in 1948 by prima ballerina and choreographer, Alicia Alonso, the company transformed into a national institution following the 1959 revolution. It is celebrated for its distinctive performance style, balancing technical rigor with poetic expressiveness. When in town, be sure to catch performances from their classical repertoire, which includes Don Quixote, Carmen, The Nutcracker, and the classic Swan Lake. A popular attraction among locals, ticket lines are long, but it’s worth it to see dancers like Sadaise Arencibia and Dani Hernández. The company’s hub at the Gran Teatro de La Habana is itself a stunning sight. balletcuba.cult.cu

PHOTOGRAPHY CUBAN ART FACTORY

FÁBRICA DE ARTE CUBANO Celebrating Havana’s contemporary creatives across disciplines, Fábrica de Arte Cubano is part performance space, part nightclub, and part cultural salon, where art lovers effortlessly mix and mingle with artists. Housed in a converted cooking oil factory in the Vedado district, the art center is the brainchild of Afro-Cuban fusion musician X-Alfonso. Visitors may party at concerts, take dance classes, and tour the constant rotation of exhibits. Cuttingedge creators who perform there include Latin jazz bassist Gastón Joya, experimental theater group Teatro Espontáneo, and avant-garde fashion designer Celia Ledón. fac.cu

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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO AWAY FROM THE CHAOS OF THE TWIN REPUBLIC’S CARNIVAL PARADES LIE SURPRISING MOMENTS OF TRANSCENDENCE.

PHOTOGRAPHY CARLOS QUEZADA

SRI DATTATREYA YOGA CENTRE Revered as a place of worship for Trinidad’s Hindu community, the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre in Carapichaima is an architectural wonder. In 2003, specially-commissioned craftsmen completed the structure, inspired by the Dravidian style of sacred sites in South India. The result: a frost pink temple with dramatic domes against the skyline. Two auspicious elephant statues and a relief of sculpted dancers greet you at the entrance. Inside, the ceiling is a kaleidoscope of lotus flowers. But before entering, you cannot miss the vivid 85-foot Hanuman statue, whose first block was laid to the chanting of sacred mantras. The temple welcomes guests to participate in the daily worship and all celebrations for major Hindu festivals. sridattatreyayogacentrett.com

PHOTOGRAPHY CASWELL GORDON

TOBAGO HERITAGE FESTIVAL From mid-July to August, Tobago’s rich cultural traditions come alive with celebrations across the island. Founded in 1987 by renowned anthropologist Dr. J.D. Elder, Tobago Heritage Festival honors Afro-Caribbean folk arts and ensures their preservation through generations. Traverse from village to village at events like the Plymouth Ole Time Carnival, where visitors can watch traditional stick-fighting and a parade of folktale characters like the Ju Ju warriors. Or you could explore the traditional African dances of the Pembroke Salaka Feast, a sacred thanksgiving event paying homage to the ancestors. The celebrations end on August 1 for the Emancipation Day Gala at Pigeon Point Heritage Park, filled with colorful processions and folk music. tobagoheritagefestival.com

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TRAVEL // BEYOND THE BEACH

PUERTO RICO

DESPITE HURRICANE MARIA’S DEVASTATION OF PUERTO RICO IN 2017, THE ISLAND’S CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS STILL STAND STRONG AS LASTING MONUMENTS TO ITS ART AND HISTORY. MUSEO DE LAS AMÉRICAS This museum offers an ethnographic tour through the Americas, exploring the region’s cultural production and historical impact. Housed in the picturesque Ballajá Barracks in San Juan, the permanent collection includes indigenous and African artifacts and crafts, as well as a historical guide through conquest and colonization. While dedicated to preservation, the museum also captures the living cultural experiences of the region. Its popular Family Sunday programming offers traditional performances and art workshops. And perhaps most profoundly, the museum also helped communities process Hurricane Maria’s aftermath in its landmark exhibit, Catarsis: Re / Construyendo, featuring works by artists and the wider public. It was founded in 1992 by renowned scholar Dr. Ricardo E. Alegría. museolasamericas.org

PHOTOGRAPHY MUSEO DE ARTE DE PUERTO RICO

MUSEO DE ARTE DE PUERTO RICO Mostly spared from 2017’s hurricanes, this San Juan-based museum physically and spiritually became a refuge from the storm. It sheltered precious pieces from hurricane-damaged museums across the island. And when it reopened, the Museum’s survey of Puerto Rican art became a much-welcomed haven. Founded in 1998 and housed in the converted San Juan Municipal Hospital, the museum seeks to preserve the island’s artistic heritage. From 17th century masterworks to more contemporary pieces, the permanent collection includes works by icons like Francisco Oller and Rafael Tufiño. mapr.org

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS CRUZAN RUM DISTILLERY Visitors enjoying cocktails in St. Croix will likely imbibe the island’s beloved spirit, Cruzan Rum. The Nelthropp Family created its signature concoction in the 1800s, developing their unique distillation process over centuries. Rum acolytes can witness the process firsthand through their tours, from the fermentation vats to the vast warehouse filled with rum aging in charcoaled barrels. Weekday tours also include special taste-testings of their diverse rums. Their aging rums survived the ravages of Hurricane Maria and Irma last year, and they were able to repair and reopen their facilities three weeks after the storm—a testament to a hallowed establishment that will weather many more. cruzanrum.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY GOTOSTCROIX.COM

AMONG STUNNING VISTAS LIE TREASURES THAT HONOR THE ISLANDS’ LONG HISTORY AND CULTURAL DEPTH. CARIBBEAN MUSEUM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Forget sterile, stark white galleries. This center for the arts is equal parts exhibition space and community hub in St. Croix. First created in 1994 by Candia Atwater as a youth arts initiative, the center soon established a program to celebrate local and regional artists. Housed in a historic colonial home in Frederiksted, the venue now hosts three art residencies and stunning exhibits featuring works by artists like local painter Mark Milligan and famed Puerto Rican printmaker José Meléndez Contreras. The communal spirit also lives on through the center’s art workshops, academic lectures, and popular concert series, which are open to the public and focused on enriching the connection between artist and audience. cmcarts.org

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TASTE THE ISLANDS // RESTAURANT REVIEW

AS SOON AS I ARRIVED, I was offered coffee, which as a non-coffee drinker, I automatically declined, opting instead for a smoothie. I was pleasantly surprised to receive a full pineapple, which was hollowed out to host the cool strawberry flavored drink. It was beautifully garnished with pineapple slices. To start, I chose the ultra-traditional Cuban Sandwich, which was loaded with moist pulled pork, thick-cut ham, cheese, and pickles on Cuban bread. It looked delicious, so I went all-in and was reminded of why I love a good sandwich. My server recommended the Cuban Burger and it turned out to be the highlight of my afternoon. Unlike a typical burger, the meat was exceptionally well-seasoned, and it was served in the style of a Cuban sandwich—on pressed, toasted Cuban bread, accompanied by shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. By then, I knew I shouldn’t have another morsel, but couldn’t resist the owner’s invitation to share a Palomilla Steak Sandwich with him. It was served on a soft, sweet bread with tender, succulent steak as the star. Chef Gloria, Luis Jr.’s maternal aunt who has worked there for 20 years, would not let me leave without sampling their oxtail, and I’m glad I did! The flavor, with a dominant tomato base, is completely different from the Jamaican style I’m used to, but is equally delicious. The

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925

NUEVO’S CUBANO’S WRITER DAVID I. MUIR PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

925 NUEVO’S CUBANO’S IS A NO-FRILLS CUBAN EATERY WITH A LAID-BACK VIBE, TASTY FOODS, AND ENOUGH CHARACTER TO MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU’RE BACK HOME IN THE CARIBBEAN. CUSTOMERS ORDER UP HEARTY MEALS, SANDWICHES, DELICIOUS SMOOTHIES, AND ARGUABLY THE TASTIEST CORTADITO (COFFEE) THIS SIDE OF TOWN, RIGHT FROM THE SIDEWALK. FOR 925 PROPRIETOR LUIS VALDES JR., “THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS THE FOOD.”

meat is tender, juicy, and falls right off the bone. While none of the dishes I tried were peppery hot, they all had a unique Caribbean spiciness. Although I’m not a coffee drinker, I found that there were customers who came by every day just for the coffee. I had to try it. It was simply amazing! Completely full, I took my dessert, Tres Leches, to go. I was blown away by its light oatmeal-like texture and pleasant sweetness. With a history as rich as its cuisine, 925 has been a staple in Fort Lauderdale since 1976 when Cuban-born Luis Valdes Sr. bought the 1925 property as the family’s home, and began selling food there. As a young man, he smuggled himself into the United States on a cargo ship, and after several deportations, was able to secure U.S. residency. He was drafted to serve in Vietnam, then later moved to Miami where he worked in the hotel industry. That’s when he met his wife and had two sons, Luis Jr. and Noel. Luis Jr. now owns and operates 925 with his son, Luis Valdes III. At this family-owned and operated eatery, they took care of me like family, and the food was nothing short of spectacular. This rustic restaurant has definitely made my list. Visit 925 Nuevo’s Cubano’s at 925 N Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311. And tell them Island Origins sent you.

TASTE THE ISLANDS // RECIPES

“DRINKS & DESSERT” BY GRACE FOODS

YIELD: 16 SLICES INGREDIENTS • 3 cups Grace Coconut Milk • 2 pints water • 8 ounces margarine • 4 ounces raisins • 1 pound granulated sugar • 1 cinnamon leaf • 14 ounces Grace Cornmeal

in d d l Pu a e m Corn

• 3 ounces counter flour • 2 teaspoons cinnamon powder • 1 teaspoon nutmeg • 1 ½ teaspoons salt • 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla • 2 ½ cups milk (or water) • 2 ounces dark sugar Recipe Note: Dark sugar may be substituted for granulated sugar.

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large saucepan, add 2 cups Grace coconut milk, water, margarine, raisins, and granulated sugar, then bring to a boil. Add cinnamon leaf. 2. In a large bowl, combine the Grace cornmeal, flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder, nutmeg, salt and vanilla, and mix in 2 ½ cups of milk or water to soften. Add to the boiling liquid and stir briskly. Lower the flame and allow to simmer for 10 minutes while constantly stirring. 3. Scrape mixture into a greased 10-inch baking tin. 4. To make soft top, combine remaining Grace Coconut Milk, remaining cinnamon powder and dark sugar. Mix until granules are dissolved. 5. Pour soft top mixture over the pudding mixture. Bake at 350°F for 55 minutes

YIELD: 1 SERVING INGREDIENTS • 1 ounce Grace Tropical Rhythms Sorrel Ginger • 1 ¼ ounces white or red rum • 1 ¼ ounces vodka • ¼ ounce triple sec INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a martini glass. 2. Garnish with sorrel (hibiscus).

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Sorrel T riple Fu sion

TASTE THE ISLANDS // RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

RESTAURANT

LISTING IN SOUTH FLORIDA

AVERAGE COST PER PERSON BEFORE DRINKS, TAX AND TIP. $ Under $10 / person $$ Under $20 / person $$$ Under $40 / person $$$$ Over $40 / person 925 NUEVO’S CUBANO’S | $ Cuban Serving succulent roast pork and delicious sandwiches. 925 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale ALBERTE’S RESTAURANT I $$ Haitian Unique and authentic Caribbean dishes, with live music on Fridays and Saturdays. 1201 NE 38th St, Oakland Park albertesrestaurant.com

ALEXSANDRA’S CARIBBEAN CAFE | $$ Caribbean, Jamaican Soak up some sun while enjoying their famous jerk chicken sandwich and patties. 235 E Commercial Blvd, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea ALI’S ROTI SHOP | $ Caribbean, Indian, Vegetarian Tiny counter-serve joint dishing up Trinidadian comfort food like doubles & aloo pie. 303 S State Road 7, Plantation LA BELLE JACMELIENNE CAFE | $$ Haitian Haitian décor and friendly staff serving up a wide array of Haitian cuisine. 3328 South University Dr, Miramar

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BAHAMA GRILL | $$ Bahamian Indoor / outdoor dining, with Bahamian favorites smoked pork, baby-back ribs and grilled conch. 7619 N State Road 7, Parkland bahamagrill.com

BAMBOO SHACK | $$ Bahamian Quick-service restaurant serving snacks and traditional Bahamian items. 18450 NW 2nd Ave, Miami Gardens BAHAMIAN REEF SEAFOOD RESTAURANT |$$$ Seafood Low-key and casual with colorful interior. 7836 NW 44th St, Sunrise EL BOHIO DE MAMA | $$ Dominican Family style restaurant offering music, mofongo, shrimp and dancing. 2181 State Road 7, Margate DON ARTURO RESTAURANT | $$ Cuban Serving traditional recipes & drinks in kid-friendly environment. 1198 SW 27th Ave, Fort Lauderdale donarturorestaurant.com

CALYPSO RESTAURANT & RAW BAR | $$ Caribbean Try their Caribbean-style seafood and Jamaican Jerk and curry dishes. 460 S Cypress Rd, Pompano Beach

CONCH KRAWL CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Bahamian, Seafood Enjoy traditional Bahamian and other Caribbean dishes. 2600 S University Dr #106, Miramar

FINLEY’S BAHAMIAN RESTAURANT | $$ Bahamian Try their breakfast served with Johnny cakes or grits, lunch specials daily 2710 W Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach

calypsorestaurant.com

DONNA’S CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican food all day, plus cocktails and Sunday brunch. 9 locations around South Florida. 5434 N University Drive, Lauderhill

HAVANA 1957 | $$ Cuban Quick bites in a buzzing backdrop with Havana memorabilia 405 Espanola Way, Miami Beach havana1957.com

donnascaribbean.com

ISLAND FUSION GRILL | $$ Jamaican, Cuban Jamaican, Cuban, Asian and Creole flavors with seafood and vegetarian options 4811 S State Rd 7, Davie, FL 33314

CHEF CREOLE | $$ Haitian Simply delicious signature Haitian seafood. 200 NW 54th St, Miami, FL chefcreole.com

CLIVE’S CAFE | $ Jamaican Popular spot for jerk chicken and curry goat. 5890 NW 2nd Ave, Miami clivescafe.com

COLADA | $ Cuban Family-owned bakery serving savory and sweet Cuban treats and other Cuban cuisine. 525 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale coladahouse.com

CONCH HEAVEN | $$ Bahamian Lots of conch based comfort foods, with locations in Miami, Plantation and Atlanta. 11275 NW 27th Ave, Miami conchheaven.com

finleysbahamianrestaurant.com

DUNN’S RIVER | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican cuisine in a beautiful ambiance, serving the Hallandale area. 908 W Hallandale Beach Blvd, Hallandale Beach DUTCH POT JAMAICAN RESTAURANT | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican cuisine. 111 N State Rd 7, Plantation dutchpotrestaurants.com

FIERY IRIE | $$ Caribbean All your favorite authentic Jamaican dishes. 100 S Flamingo Rd, Pembroke Pines fieryirie.com

islandfusiongrill.com

LC ROTI SHOP | $ Indian, Vegetarian Cash-only eatery, serving Caribbean eats & housemade roti with pepper sauce. 19505 NW 2nd Ave, Miami LITTLE HAVANA | $$ Cuban Authentic Cuban Cuisine 12727 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami littlehavanarestaurant. com

LOCALICIOUS JAX ICE CREAM | $ Ice Cream Old fashioned, hand made ice cream including Caribbean flavors. 4220 NW 12th St, Lauderhill

LALLO’S | $$ Caribbean, Indian Serves a wide variety of roti and the fresh catch of the day on a Friday. 1401 NW 39 Terrace, Lauderhill

JAMAICA KITCHEN | $$ Jamaican Known for their extra spicy beef patties 8736 SW 72nd St, Miami

LAS OLAS CAFE | $ Cuban Freshly squeezed juices and Cuban sandwiches. 644 6th St, Miami Beach

www.jamaicakitchen.com

JOY’S ROTI DELIGHT | $$ Trinidadian, Indian Counter serve cafe with Indian inspired Caribbean cuisine. 1205 NW 40th Ave, Lauderhill joysrotidelight.com

JUANA LA CUBANA CAFE | $ Cuban Cuban sandwiches & dishes like ropa vieja & roast pork. 2850 SW 54th St, Fort Lauderdale juanalacubana.com

JUANA’S LATIN SPORTS BAR & GRILL | $$ Latin Casual Dominican, Puerto Rican & American sports bar and grill. 11602 City Hall Promenade, Miramar juanaslatinsportsbar.com

lalloscaribbeanrestaurant.com

lasolascafesb.com

LAS VEGAS CUBAN CUISINE | $$ Cuban, Latin American A dine in hot spot with 16 South Florida locations offering Cuban meals and cocktails. 2807 E Oakland Park Blvd, Ft. Lauderdale Lasvegascubancuisine.com

EL MAGO DE LAS FRITAS | $ Cuban Cozy spot for Cuban burgers. 5828 SW 8th St, Miami elmagodelasfritas.com

MANGU CAFE RESTAURANT | $$ Dominican Bare-bones Dominican spot serving pernil, goat stew, beer & wine. 2007 W 62nd St, Hialeah

MARIO’S CATALINA RESTAURANT | $$$ Cuban Dine in relaxing ambiance, eating Cuban and Spanish cuisine. 1611 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale ORTANIQUE ON THE MILE | $$$$ Caribbean Fusion Island flavors, local ingredients, creative cocktails, tropical-themed decor. 278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables ortaniquerestaurants.com PADRINO’S CUBAN CUISINE | $$ Cuban Serving the best mariquitas, mojito and flan for the past 40 years. 1135 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale padrinos.com

PANFRIDAYS | $$ Jamaican Try their popular jerk chicken and shrimp pasta. 7183 W Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill panfridays.com

POLLO EL COJIDO | $$ Dominican Delicious mofongo, quesadilla and sancocho. 5859 N University Dr, Pompano Beach POLLO TIPICO | $ Dominican Traditional Dominican dishes in a laid back atmosphere 5011 State Road 7, Fort Lauderdale

PUERTO SAGUA RESTAURANT | $$ Cuban Known for their soup and oxtail stews 700 Collins Ave, Miami Beach REED’S CATERING & CONCESSIONS | $$ Seafood, Caribbean Late night seafood truck, with a specialty of conch salad. 12203 NW 27th Ave, Miami REGGAE PON THE GRILLE | $$ Jamaican, Caribbean Buffet style dining offering tasty Jamaican dishes. 8032 W McNab Rd, North Lauderdale reggaeonthegrille.com

ROCK STEADY JAMAICAN BISTRO | $$$ Jamaican, Caribbean Strip-mall cafe with Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, curries & crab fritters. 2399 N Federal Hwy - Unit C, Boca Raton rocksteadyjamaicanbistro.com

SAZON CUBAN CUISINE | $ Cuban Tasty Caribbean cuisine and live weekend entertainment. 7305 Collins Ave, Miami Beach sazoncubancuisine.com

SHEIKS BAKERY & CAFE | $ Caribbean, Indian East & West Indian food including halal meats, spices & baked goods. 154 University Dr, Pembroke Pines sheiksbakery.com

SWIRL WINE BISTRO | $$ Caribbean, Wine Bar With fresh, high-quality ingredients their culinary team offers a variety of cuisines and wines. 1435 Lyons Rd, Coconut Creek TAP TAP | $$$ Haitian Colorful interior and authentic creole cuisine. 819 5th St, Miami Beach taptapsouthbeach.com

VERSAILLES | $$ Cuban, Latin American Serving tasty Cuban cuisine and culture for four decades. The gauge of the community’s pulse. 3555 Southwest 8th Street, Miami versaillesrestaurant.com

YARUMBA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE | $$ Dominican Try their traditional stews or Churrasco with live music. 4740 NW 167th St, Miami Gardens yarumbarestaurant.com

SHALAMA’S HALAL ROTI SHOP | $ Caribbean, Indian Casual ethnic take out spot with authentic roti, curries and pepper sauce. 1432 State Road 7, Margate

ZEST MIAMI | $$$ Caribbean fusion A modern restaurant & market with creative island fare. 200 S Biscayne Blvd, Miami zestmiami.com

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ENTERTAINMENT // EVENT CALENDAR

EVENT

CALENDAR FEBRUARY 2/02

“Caribbean Nights” at the Seven Seas Gala WHERE: Pier 66, 2301 Southeast 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 ADMISSION: $0 – $175 INFO: eventbrite.com A black-tie fundraiser for the Navy League. 2/02

La Perle De Miami: Haitian Revolution Tour WHERE: Little Haiti Cultural Center, 212 Northeast 59th Terrace, Miami, FL 33137 ADMISSION: $35 INFO: eventbrite.com Seeking to expose Haiti’s history and a few key leaders who helped shape it. 2/14

Conference on Cuban and Cuban-American Studies WHERE: FIU, Graham Center, 11200 Southwest 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199 ADMISSION: $35 - $125 INFO: eventbrite.com An academic inquiry and public debate on the relations between Cuba and Puerto Rico. 2/19 - 3/16

Caribbean Culinary Museum and Theater Exhibition WHERE: Lauderhill Museum, 1080 NW 47th Ave, Lauderhill, FL 33313 ADMISSION: Free INFO: ttiexperience.com A “Taste the Islands Experience” event, showcasing Caribbean history and culture through cuisine, artifacts, and theater. 2/21

Ankara Miami 2019: Florida’s Premier African Fashion Week WHERE: Various, Miami, FL ADMISSION: TBA (Varies) INFO: ankaramiami.com Florida’s Premier African Fashion Week returns for the 8th annual celebration of fashion, music, & art.

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2/22

Caribbean Culinary Museum and Theater Exhibition Opening Night Event WHERE: Lauderhill Museum, 1080 NW 47th Ave, Lauderhill, FL 33313 ADMISSION: Free (with eventbrite ticket) INFO: ttiexperience.com Join city and island officials, and the creators of the exhibition, for the official opening event. 2/26

Merritone Memories Cruise to Havana WHERE: Fort Lauderdale – Key West – Havana, Cuba ADMISSION: $800+ INFO: idealtravelcompany.com Merritone Memories Inaugural cruise to Havana, Cuba, sailing out of Fort Lauderdale via Key West.

MARCH

3/09

14th Annual Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival WHERE: Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33056 ADMISSION: INFO: jazzinthegardens.com The music festival returns with Lionel Richie, Bobby Brown, Stephanie Mills, En Vogue, Teddy Riley & more. 3/14

Project Jouvert WHERE: M3 Studio, 4000 NW 36th Ave, Miami, FL 33142 ADMISSION: $20 – $100 INFO: eventbrite.com Spring Break’s biggest jouvert day party in Miami. 18 to enter, 21 to drink.

3/09

Concrete Beach Brewery’s Miami Gras

APRIL

WHERE: Concrete Beach Brewery, 325 Northwest 24th Street, Miami, FL 33127 ADMISSION: Free INFO: eventbrite.com Combining the rhythm of Caribbean carnival with the flavors of Mardi Gras.

Sounds of Little Haiti Bus Tour

3/09

4/26 - 4/28

9 Mile Music Festival

The Taste the Islands Experience 2019

WHERE: Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, 4020 Virginia Beach Drive, Miami, FL 33149 ADMISSION: $60 - $175 INFO: 9milemusicfestival.com Annual music festival presented by the Marley family, with live performances by: Shabba Ranks, Sizzla, Spice, Barrington Levy and more.

4/19 WHERE: Caribbean Marketplace, 5925 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33137 ADMISSION: $35 INFO: eventbrite.com An immersive cultural experience aboard traditional Tap Tap buses in the heart of Little Haiti.

WHERE: The Riverwalk Area, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 ADMISSION: $40 - $250 INFO: ttiexperience.com Food and spirits enthusiasts with a taste for island indulgences will gather for the 3rd annual Taste the Islands Experience (#TTIX2019).

A FINAL THOUGHT // CULTURALLY CONNECTED

FINAL THOUGHT

CULTURALLY CONNECTED WRITER CALIBE THOMPSON

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

AS A JAMAICAN, WHEN I THINK ABOUT CULTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN, MY THOUGHTS LEAN TOWARD OUR AFRICAN ROOTS. I THINK THE SAME MIGHT BE TRUE EVEN FOR JAMAICANS OF CHINESE, INDIAN, AND MIDDLE EASTERN ANCESTRY. AFTER ALL, OUR AFRICAN ROOTS ARE THE STRONGEST GENEALOGICAL HERITAGE WE SHARE.

IN PUBLISHING THIS ISSUE THOUGH, I began to understand that in our sub-communities—among Jamaicans, Trinis, Bajans, or Haitians, for example—we somehow assume that what we believe to be culturally significant is, in fact, common knowledge among our Caribbean brothers and sisters. Reading Bekim’s piece revealed that he was mistakenly assured that I (a Jamaican) already knew about the Indo-Caribbean norms and traditions he was describing, just as I was mistakenly assured that he (a Trinidadian) knew about the Afro-Caribbean cultures described elsewhere in the issue. It opened my eyes to the fact that every Caribbean population probably believes we all know what they know. It mirrors some of what I see happening in America today. Folks in the Midwest believe they understand the reasons and ways of people in metropolitan communities, and vice versa. Black Americans and white Americans feel like they have each other all figured out. The result is that they treat each other as they do, based on assumptions rather than genuine understanding. But while Americans seem to be having grave challenges reconciling their cultural differences and coexisting peacefully in spite of them, the Caribbean community proudly finds ways to celebrate because of ours. This issue takes us from ancestral connections and stigmas of the past, to subject matter that should be general knowledge but isn’t, and even offers a glimpse into the Afro-future. It explores the reasons we continue to be ashamed of some aspects of our heritage, like our Afrocentric religions, even though we’re growing to accept others, like our nappy curls and deep-colored skin. It inspires us to go beyond what we are ‘sure’ is the shared history that binds us, and pay attention to the parts of history that are important to our Caribbean family but that we never thought to consider. And, of course, we do a little bit of celebration for the holidays and the New Year. In these times, when there are people trying to make us feel that we have no roots where we have chosen to plant them, let us celebrate the roots we cannot be denied. I hope that 2019 turns out to be your best year ever! #islandorigins

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