Island Origins - Winter 2019/20

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CONTENTS Winter | 2019/20

16 LOVE THAT LASTS

A FASHIONABLE LIFE 2

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CHEF CONFIDENTIAL SEASON’S EATINGS

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MIAMI CARNIVAL 2019

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CREDITS PUBLISHER Calibe Thompson BRAND STRATEGY David I. Muir EDITOR Monique McIntosh ART DIRECTOR Vladan Dojcinovic CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ghenete ‘G’ Wright Muir Rebecca Hugh Megan Hesse Sharon Wong Hollis Tanya Marie McLendon Steve Bennett Felicity Darville David I. Muir Jonathan Rawson John Hall Calibe Thompson

CULTURE 6. Have Yourself a Caribbean Christmas 34. 12 Months of Art in Hallandale Beach HEALTH & BEAUTY 10. Festive Face INSPIRATION 12 A Time for Giving INVEST 14. A New Home for the Holidays STYLE & DESIGN 24. New Traditionalist 28. The List: Holiday by Design TRAVEL 32. Spend Your Winter in the Sun TASTE THE ISLANDS 36. Dukunoo Jamaican Kitchen 42. Restaurant Listing 44. EVENT CALENDAR

FINAL THOUGHT

48. A New Day

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS David I. Muir The Wright Family Michael D Cadogan The Quintela Family John de la Bastide Richard Ellis @korenarebecca @makeup_bysharz @patriciascanvas Caribbean Science Foundation Puru Kemisha Anderson Ranfurly Home for Children Robb McCormick Emily Sommer Esther Jung U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism UncommonCaribbean Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Shane Pinder Sophie Bonet Mark James Ian Ramdial @mymatv ON THE COVER: The Holiday & Family Issue Nathalie Cadet-James and Brian Theophilus James, along with two other prominent young, iconic South Florida couples, share their stories of love and legacy. For the holidays, Valentine’s Day, and every day in between, learn from the experts how to make a marriage last.

Photography David I. Muir Copyright © 2019 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 #207, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312. Printed in the United States of America.

Island Origins Magazine ℅ Island Syndicate 1310 SW 2nd Ct #207 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 417-812-5663 | islandoriginsmag.com support@islandsyndicate.com

CULTURE // HAVE A CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS

HAVE YOURSELF A

CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS MY FIRST MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS WERE FILLED WITH THE HOLIDAY CLASSICS YOU’D FIND IN MANY MOVIES: THE FAMILY HOME IN NEW YORK, A CHRISTMAS TREE WITH COLORFUL LIGHTS, PRISTINELY WRAPPED PRESENTS UNDER THE TREE, AND SLED RACES WITH OTHER NEIGHBORHOOD KIDS IN THE SNOW. I DO REMEMBER WATCHING MY FATHER MAKE ONE SLIGHT EDIT TO THIS SCENE BY VERY CAREFULLY USING BROWN FOOD COLORING TO PAINT IN SANTA’S FACE.

MILY RIGHT FA : COUR TESY W

uir with Wright M r, Writer G. ichard and fathe y brother, Rght, New York Cit Lloyd Wri

PHOTO

COURT PHOTO:

H ESY WRIG

T FAMILY

WRITER GHENETE “G” WRIGHT MUIR

The writ er with at the fa her b Christm mily home inrother and fa the as New Yo rk City, r

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Christmas morning in Queen's Park, Barbados where people dress up and listen to music by the Royal Barbados Police Band.

“My mother made sure that we had the house spotless, and when I say spotless, I mean spotless,” she says. “And she would be up the night before baking traditional fruit cake with fruit that had been soaking for 3 months prior.” After mass, dressed to the nines, families

PHOTO: COURTESY QUINTELA FAMILY

FOOD, FAITH AND FAMILY For most throughout the Caribbean, the holidays remain centered around celebrations with family, from the church pew to the dining table. In Jamaica, my cousin Lesa remembers shopping for presents at the traditional grand market on Christmas Eve, “waking up early Christmas morning to go to church, then eating ‘til yuh belly buss [until your belly bursts].”

On the following day—known as Boxing Day—the family would pack leftovers from the holiday feast to share with the less fortunate.

For Christmas in Barbados, Carla fondly recalls preparing her home and baking late into the night before heading to midnight mass.

PHOTO: CMICHAEL D CADOGAN

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hen my family moved to Jamaica after my fifth birthday, there was no snow and there were no chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Under the tropical sun, a Caribbean Christmas felt far away from the pop culture imagination of the season I had grown accustomed to. In Jamaica, I learned that Christmas meant playing with cousins while our parents chatted over sorrel and Christmas fruit cake, and that holiday playlists included lots of records from Boney M, Nat King Cole, and the reggae hit “Santa Claus (Do You Ever Come to the Ghetto)” by Carlene Davis.

Throughout the Caribbean, though we all share a common thread of food, family, and friends, each island finds its own unique ways to summon the season’s spirit.

I reached out to some fellow Caribbean folks to find out more about their most time-honored holiday rites.

would then go to Queens Park for the musical celebrations, including performances by the Royal Barbados Police Force Band.

Growing up in Florida’s Cuban community, for Adria, Christmas meant driving down to Miami to select the celebratory whole pig. It would be masterfully cleaned and slow-roasted to create lechón asado—the centerpiece of family meals on Christmas Eve, or “Noche Buena.”

For many families in Trinidad and Tobago, Christmas Day also meant enjoying the great outdoors, recalls twin republic native, Natalie.

“You would see children playing in the savannah flying kites, pitching marbles and riding their new bikes, while the adults played dominoes and the popular card game All Fours,” she says. “Many people would also spend the day at Maracas Bay Beach, or bathe in the cool river waters.”

THROUGHOUT THE CARIBBEAN, THOUGH WE ALL SHARE A COMMON THREAD OF FOOD, FAMILY, AND FRIENDS, EACH ISLAND FINDS ITS OWN UNIQUE WAYS TO SUMMON THE SEASON’S SPIRIT A snapshot from Adria’s family preparing their signature lechón asado (roast pork) for Christmas Eve.

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PHOTO: JOHN DE LA BASTIDE

CULTURE // HAVE A CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS

Traditionally, parang serenaders in Trinidad would pay nocturnal visits to the homes of family and friends, where part of the fun was waking them. a part of many during the holidays. You’d crash someone’s house in the middle of the night, singing and playing plena music until they open the door. Your house had to always be stocked with extra food just in case you received one.”

For fellow Puerto Rican Christina, Noche Buena also usually meant dancing the night away. “We would have a huge party with lots of Puerto Rican food and music, and we would dance all night,” she recalls fondly. “Near sundown, we would dance the traditional bomba, a musical style of Puerto Rico with origins rooted in the island’s Afro-Puerto Rican culture. We would walk down the streets and knock on neighbors’ doors, inviting them to join. It’s literally a whole night of partying.” And at the stroke of midnight, the dance subsides “so the family can get together and open one gift.”

HAPPY NEW YEAR As the Christmas cheer fades into celebrations on New Year’s Eve, many Caribbean families

PHOTO: RICHARD ELLIS

FESTIVE BEAT Around the world, Christmas officially arrives once carols start playing on the airwaves. The holiday jingles, however, sound a little different in the Caribbean. In Trinidad and Tobago, the preferred genre is parang, “a type of traditional folk-style music that incorporates many instruments like the cuatro guitar, maracas and the toc-toc, also known as claves” says Natalie. The music floods radio stations and the streets, as live-performing bands begin wandering through neighborhoods. “Groups of parang performers go serenading from house to house,” she notes. “People would come out [of] their houses clapping and singing, and give the performers baked goods and lots of alcoholic drinks.”

Similar bands called Las Parrandas gather in Puerto Rico, says native Boricua Deborah, though she remembers these troubadours may have had a little too much fun. “Sadly they don’t happen as often, as people started using it as a form of home invasion. But as a child I remember being

A vibrant parranda band makes its way through the streets of San Juan, Puerto Rico, as part of the city’s Christmas celebrations.

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turn to old-school superstitions to secure good tidings for the year to come. In my family, I remember hearing laundry should be done before the New Year arrives. Scrubbing away bad luck was also a common practice in Trinidad, says Natalie. “Families would make sure that all their laundry was done, and they were meticulous in mopping floors and polishing furniture with oils.”

The Cuban culture also had a serious regimen of New Year’s good luck traditions, says Adria. “We’d walk around with suitcases at midnight on New Year’s Eve, which hopefully meant we would travel a lot in the coming year. We’d also throw a bucket of water out the door to let go of the bad things that happened that [old] year. And at midnight, we’d eat 12 grapes and make a wish with each one.”

Tabitha shares that in Haiti “we always make sure we have cash in our pockets before we enter the door in our house every New Year to bring in more money.” In addition, the day also carries special significance here, as “New Year is also our Independence Day.” Among the usual festivities, “We eat our soup joumou, which is a pumpkin soup,” and an essential dish for the occasion.

Natalie recalls that in Trinidad, many families marked the milestone in prayer. “We made sure to be in church when midnight hits to ensure blessings for the New Year.” In Dominica, says Jahra, some locals prefer to welcome the New Year with a healthy balance. “We go to Old Year’s midnight mass, which is quickly followed by hedonistic partying for those of us who don’t follow dem tings.”

Whether praying in pews or celebrating in the streets, this is one New Year’s tradition that remains the same across the Caribbean and the world over—marking the passing of another year together as a family and community.

FESTIVE

FACE

PHOTOGRAPHY @korenarebecca

HEALTH & BEAUTY // FESTIVE FACE

WRITER REBECCA HUGH

EVERGREEN CHARM 



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GLITTER GALORE

The classic smokey eye gets a holiday revamp in this sparkling look by Trinidadian Instagram beauty influencer, Korena Rebecca. Born and raised in the twin republic, the self-taught tastemaker enjoys experimenting with glitter, sequins and feathery lashes to create editorial fantasy makeup, from a fuchsiatinged goddess look to aquamarine mermaids.

For this style, she takes the flair down a notch by pairing a black eyeshadow with a multicolor glitter detail lining the under eye. “This fun and sultry look is perfect for that Christmas or New Year’s Eve party,” says Korena, who has been experimenting with makeup since age 14.

To create a soft, smoky eye on her lids, Korena blended in matte black shades from the Morphe 35M Boss Mood Artistry Palette. She then illuminated the corner of her eyes with a frosty shade from the Golden State of Mind Eyeshadow Palette from ColourPop. Under the eye, she applied chunky Pink Craze Cosmetics glitter with a flat concealer brush, using Ambrosia Cosmetics glitter adhesive. The trick, says Korena, “is to work in small portions at a time, because the glue is strong, but dries quickly.” And for the lips, she suggests to keep it simple, like this nude “Over the Taupe” lipstick from Sacha Cosmetics, topped with L.A Colors clear gloss for extra shine.

PHOTOGRAPHY @patriciascanvas

For 36-year-old Jamaican makeup artist Shari Bailey, nothing upgrades an eye look better than some high-definition color. She delivers in this flirty mix of festive greens and blues, with a spot of gold. “This is a pretty simple look to do,” says Shari. “And you can give it that extra punch with a black base. This would be really fun for a staff Christmas party. Add a little glitter, and it would also be perfect for New Year’s Eve.” To capture Shari’s flirty eye, start off by applying P.Louise primer on the lid. Next, use Juvia’s Place Saharan black gel liner on the eyelid, then add lime green “Tutsi” eyeshadow from the Juvia’s Place Tribe Palette along the eye crease. Using the same palette, use the deeper, evergreen “San” eyeshadow to blend along the eyelids. Then apply Hollywood Loose Eyeshadow Pigment from Peaches & Cream to the inner corners of the eyes. Top this off with lashes from Glamour by Me. Shari finishes the look with a simple swipe of gloss to accentuate and hydrate the lips.

PHOTOGRAPHY @makeup_bysharz

Come December, ‘tis the season to be merry and bright. Celebrations galore, from office parties to family holiday gatherings offer the perfect excuse to add a little extra sparkle to your basic beauty routine. Seeking a little inspiration, we turned to our favorite Caribbean beauty gurus for their best holiday styles, and expert tips on how to recreate these looks at home. From berry lips to bold glitter, there’s something for every makeup aficionado this season.

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BERRY SUBTLE

“What makes this look so fun is there’s a mix of several textures,” says professional Haitian-Canadian makeup artist Patricia Desamours about this shimmering look. “Most people think they can’t mix glitter with metallic or matte eyeshadow, but with makeup, anything is possible.”

Hailing from Montreal, the 28-year-old makeup artist—who speaks fluent French, English, Kreyol, Spanish and Italian—brings high wattage looks to runways and music video shoots in Miami.

To create this look, Patricia recommends starting with eye primer. On the outer corners of the eye, blend the matte eyeshadow “Oh, That’s Rich!” from the Too Faced Pretty Rich Diamond Light Eyeshadow Palette. From there, blend Too Faced’s Crystal Whips Liquid Eyeshadow in “Club Kid” from the inner corner of the eye to the middle, then add “New Money” from the Too Faced Chocolate Gold Eyeshadow Palette to the inner corners of the eye. To complete the effect, use Too Faced Better Than Sex Eyeliner and about three layers of Too Faced Damn Girl! Mascara. “And make sure to wait two minutes in between each layer to create a thicker lash look,” notes Patrica. Finish the face with the berry luscious Too Faced Melted Matte-tallic Liquified Lipstick “I Wanna Rock With You.”

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INSPIRATION // A TIME FOR GIVING

A TIME FOR

GIVING WRITER MEGAN HESSE

THE CARIBBEAN SCIENCE FOUNDATION In today’s technology-driven world, strength in the sciences can empower the Caribbean’s next generation.

Knowledge empowerment is the mission behind the Barbados-based Caribbean Science Foundation (CSF), which provides immersive Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The nonprofit is led by co-executive directors and husband-and-wife scientists Dr. Cardinal Warde and Dr. Dinah Sah. A Barbados native and electrical engineering professor at MIT, Dr. Warde wished to bring cutting-edge education to Caribbean students interested in tertiary-level science. “My husband wanted to provide guidance and mentorship to these students at this turning point in their lives,” explains Dr. Sah. In 2012, they launched the foundation’s 4-week summer program SPISE (Student Program for Innovation, Science, and Engineering), exposing students to STEM fields like university-level calculus, physics, computer programming, biochemistry, and renewable energy, as well as entrepreneurship. Of the 152 graduates across the Caribbean, many now pursue sciences at prestigious American universities.

The foundation also creates low-cost programs for all ages, targeting those traditionally unable to access high-tech education. Held in Barbados and St. Lucia, their computer coding workshops are open to all adults and teens over age 15. Budding kid scientists ages 10 to 18 can also hone their math and engineering skills at their Barbados junior robotics camps.

Regarding the CSF’s future, the foundation aims to provide more than just life-changing opportunities, says Dr. Sah. “We hope these students eventually become the region’s next generation of leaders, bringing unity among the islands.”

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PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE CARIBBEAN SCIENCE FOUNDATION

THOUGH DECADENCE AND EXTRAVAGANCE OFTEN TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT AT THE TURN OF EACH YEAR, GIVING BACK TO THOSE IN NEED REMAINS AT THE TRUE HEART OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON. THROUGHOUT THE CARIBBEAN, MANY INNOVATIVE CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS KEEP THIS GIVING SPIRIT ALIVE ALL YEAR LONG. SO WE’RE CELEBRATING SOME OF THE INCREDIBLE MISSIONS THAT FIND CREATIVE WAYS TO ADVOCATE FOR WORTHY CAUSES. WE HOPE THESE STORIES INSPIRE YOU TO GIVE WHERE YOU CAN, AND BRING LIGHT TO THE DARKNESS WHEREVER IT’S NEEDED IN THE CARIBBEAN.

PHOTO: PURU

RANFURLY HOME FOR CHILDREN When crisis comes, the islands have always rallied to the cause. That’s the story of the Ranfurly Home for Children, first established in 1956 by Lady Hermione Ranfurly in Nassau, The Bahamas, after a devastating fire left many children homeless.

Since then, the home dutifully provides vulnerable children a safe and stable environment, with opportunities for a brighter future.

The home responded to the call, once again, following Hurricane Dorian’s recent devastation, says Alexandria Maillis-Lynch, the home’s president. They took in a number of orphaned and displaced children from Grand Bahama Island. “When we heard that Grand Bahama had been hit so hard, we immediately reached out to social services and said, ‘send them to us,’” says Maillis-Lynch.

“These children have come to feel that this is home.”

In addition to providing a caring space to continue their academic studies, they also create a nurturing support system with professional counseling, dance and art therapy, and a gardening program where kids can connect with nature by growing produce.

Regarding the home’s plans for the future, “we need to get bigger,” explains Maillis-Lynch, “because more children should be able to receive the counseling they need, rather than being left out there because there’s no space for them.” The Ranfurly Home receives around BSD $105,000 from the Bahamian government, and depends on the generosity of the community to continue their great work.

landscaping, woodworking and barbering.

Their most acclaimed programs remain music performance and sound engineering, with many graduates going on to win Grammys. Famous students range from Skatelites founder and trombonist Don Drummond to dancehall legend Yellowman. These stars are often played on the school’s 24/7 streaming radio station, where every single song features at least one former grad, with over one thousand songs in rotation.

Throughout its near 140-year history, the institute has remained an important part of the community. “Vocational training is a stepping stone to personal and national development,” says Sister Frasier, “and we are committed to helping those who most benefit from academic and social intervention.”

Learn more and give at alphaboysschool.org

PHOTO: COURTESY RANFURLY HOME FOR CHILDREN

ALPHA INSTITUTE From ska to reggae, rocksteady to dancehall, Jamaica’s pulsing rhythms are familiar around the world. Little do fans know that many of the talented artists behind the music trace their roots to a religious institution founded in 1880. Based in Kingston, the Alpha Institute (previously known as Alpha Boys School) has a long history of fostering boys in need, and equipping them with tools for success.

“At the Alpha Institute, we work with students, their families, and community partners to make sure the next generation becomes contributing members of society, and builds a sustainable future,” explains area administrator, Sister Susan Fraser. Run by the Religious Sisters of Mercy, the school provides students a safe and healthy environment to hone vocational skills, with courses in trades including

PHOTO: COURTESY RANFURLY HOME FOR CHILDREN

PHOTO: KEMISHA ANDERSON

Learn more and give at ranfurlyhome.org

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INVEST // A NEW HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

A NEW HOME

FOR THE HOLIDAYS WRITER SHARON WONG HOLLIS PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Nothing says ‘home’ like a holiday family gathering, and the festive season is a perfect time to go house hunting for a new place to create year-round special memories with loved ones. You may be looking for a bigger kitchen to prepare celebratory feasts, or tall ceilings for that extra-large Christmas tree. Whatever your fancy, there are many advantages to exploring what’s on the market at this time of year. For buyers and sellers, here are some points you should consider:

BENEFITS FOR HOLIDAY HOME BUYERS

BENEFITS FOR HOLIDAY HOME SELLERS

During the holidays, home sellers may be urgently looking to relocate and settle into their own new place, so they may be more flexible on pricing and keen on closing quickly. Both buyer and seller needing to relocate could create the conditions for a match made in heaven.

While the pool of buyers at this time of year may be smaller, you can always make a great first impression with your online photos. If your house ticks the boxes on the three P’s of real estate—pricing, presentation, and pictures—you will likely have an excellent, speedy sales experience. When preparing your house for viewings, online or in person, go easy on the decorations. A house full of decorative turkeys, menorahs or elves can be off-putting to buyers, detracting from your home’s finer features.

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Since families with children prefer to house-hunt earlier in the year and close in the late summer before school begins, there are usually fewer buyers in the market toward the end of the year. This smaller pool of buyers will tend to have more negotiating power with sellers keen to close before year’s end for tax purposes.

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could benefit from bargains on new construction as builders try to 3 Buyers move inventory with attractive enhancements and incentives. Sellers in the investment market, particularly those who have spent money on refurbishing and upgrades, will also want to sell by December 31 to get the most tax benefits and recoup their capital outlays.

The busiest months for corporate relocations are January and February. This means you can benefit from that segment of the market by listing your home in the previous three months.

This group of buyers also tends to be better prepared financially, with down-payments readily available through corporate relocation funds.

Professionals in the real estate field like realtors, mortgage brokers, and title closers are usually less busy and are able to give buyers the time and attention they need to quickly find the right property. Movers are also less busy, so buyers can shop around for the best rates and services.

The biggest benefits to selling your home before December 31 are the various tax breaks you can qualify for. If closing takes place after January 3, tax benefits may be delayed for a year.

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Buying or selling real estate during the holiday months does not have to cause anxiety! The secret is to choose a realtor with knowledge and experience in the local market, and who is familiar with handling the relocation needs of both buyers and sellers.

To sell or buy your Florida dream home call Sharon Wong Hollis (Realtor) at 954-295-9282 or email info@sharonwhollis.com. (www.sharonwhollis.com)

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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

FEATURE // LOVE THAT LASTS

LOVE THAT LASTS WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

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IN THE AGE OF “GHOSTING” AND SWIPING RIGHT—OR LEFT, FINDING LASTING LOVE IN REAL LIFE CAN SEEM EVER ELUSIVE. BUT NOTHING BEATS LOVE THE OLD-FASHIONED WAY: A CHANCE MEETING BETWEEN TWO PEOPLE THAT TURNS INTO A LONG TERM COMMITMENT—A UNION OF MINDS, HEARTS AND SHARED VALUES. SO WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO FIND THAT SPARK WITH SOMEONE ELSE, AND KEEP IT GOING FOR DECADES? TO FIND OUT, WE TURNED TO THREE SOUTH FLORIDA NEXT GEN POWER COUPLES WHO SHARED THEIR ROMANTIC ORIGIN STORIES, AND THOUGHTS ON WHAT IT TAKES TO KEEP THE FLAME OF LOVE BURNING BRIGHT.

STEP BY STEP CHANTAL AND CESAR SOTO rand, romantic gestures in the modern world may seem like the stuff of telenovelas, but they are familiar territory for this Miami couple: engineer Cesar Soto and makeup artist Chantal Soto. Their courtship sparked over late night calls catching up on their favorite show, Mi Pequeña Traviesa. “I had to work nights, so I used to call him for updates,” recalls Chantal about their early flirtations. “It was a great excuse to talk about when we were going to go out again.”

Introduced through her sister as teenagers, Chantal and Cesar were friends for years before the late night chats led to something as romantic as a novela plotline.

When they began dating, her at 21 and him at 25, it only took three weeks for Cesar to propose. “For me, time didn’t make a difference. I just knew,” he says.

Now married for 19 years, their whirlwind romance has grown deeper with every new challenge, including founding their company, Paramount Consulting & Engineering. The business has evolved into one of the leading engineering firms in the Southeast U.S., helming major tower projects transforming the Miami skyline and beyond. They established Paramount in 2010 after years of Chantal’s urging, says Cesar. “She would say, let’s suck it up for a couple years, and see what happens. We’re in this together.”

Now perched for further expansion, “we’re so proud the company has grown so much, from what started as a lick and a prayer,” says Chantal, who helps with the firm’s marketing while running her own successful makeup practice, Chantal Sauvignon. “It’s been our baby for a while now.”

While taking their businesses to new

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heights, the couple still finds time to bond over their shared passions. True to their Dominican roots—Cesar is born and bred, while Chantal is first-generation DominicanAmerican—merengue and rumba “are a big part of our life,” says Chantal. “So much of what we do revolves around our culture.”

And though they may be dancing away into their perfect novela ending, real life feels far richer for the couple. “I’m most proud of how much we both have grown over the years together,” says Cesar. “Marriage is all about that give and take.”

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FEATURE // LOVE THAT LASTS

GOING THE DISTANCE

BRIAN THEOPHILUS JAMES AND NATHALIE CADET-JAMES

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here are many things you can stumble upon while crossing the quads at the University of Miami.

For Brian Theophilus James and Nathalie Cadet-James, in each other they discovered love and lifetime travel partners as fellow law students. “I still remember the first time I saw her walking across the law school courtyard, definitely very striking,” Brian recalls fondly. Nearly 20 years later, their journey has proven epic with many memorable landmarks, including the birth of their two beloved daughters, Johanna and Lucca.

The couple has supported each other through parenthood, and throughout their professional adventures. Brian is Senior Counsel at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and Nathalie is an entrepreneur and founder of Luxe Fête Event Planning and Design Studio, and the in-home dinner party experience, Luxe Fête Social. For Nathalie, leaving the law after many years in practice to launch her own business venture felt very much like a joint effort. “Entrepreneurship is very daunting, and it wouldn’t be possible

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without his moral support,” she says. “He gave me the push I needed to get through.”

It’s this mutual personal drive that Brian admires most. “We’ve had a couple career changes, and it’s inspiring to see this perse-

“IN MARRIAGE WE ALL EVOLVE, AND I THINK THAT HAS MADE IT AN EXCITING JOURNEY FOR US,” SAYS NATHALIE. “IT’S ALL ABOUT BEING COMMITTED, AND STAYING THE COURSE.”

verance, courage and commitment, which sets an example for our kids.”

Exposing their girls to diverse cultural experiences has also become a personal joy for the pair, who are avid travelers. Family trips have included taking a camper van to the mountains of Colorado, traveling across Europe exploring museums, and going back to Brian’s native island of St. Thomas to visit his old haunts. These trips in particular provide an opportunity for their children to learn and appreciate their Caribbean heritage, says Nathalie, who is Haitian-American. “It’s really important that our children carry that sense of connection. Our children are the best reflection of our sense of pride in our roots.”

No matter where the next journey takes them—hopefully in a future with an early retirement spent globetrotting, jokes Brian— the couple has learned to take new challenges in stride. “In marriage we all evolve, and I think that has made it an exciting journey for us,” says Nathalie. “It’s all about being committed, and staying the course.”

FEATURE // LOVE THAT LASTS

TWO MINDS, ONE HEART MARLON AND CARLA HILL

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or Carla and Marlon Hill, their romance is a tale as old as time, the embodiment of the opposites attract cliché. As students at Florida State University, she was the tattooed musical theater kid in love with punk rock and Prince, and he was the straightlaced future lawyer. He was a Jamaican, and she a carnival-loving, first generation Trinidadian-American. “We like to joke that we have a mixed marriage,” says Carla, an oncamera host with TV station South Florida PBS. During one fateful dinner at the Silver Slipper in Tallahassee, with Marlon’s law school graduation on the horizon, Carla did consider letting him go. “I never saw myself as anyone’s wife, far less someone as wonderful as Marlon,” recalls Carla. “I was trying to save him from my non-domestic ways.” But when he proposed, “Something in me just said you better say yes.”

“I knew the river of separation was about to happen,” recalls Marlon, now a partner at Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel and candidate for Miami-Dade Commission, District 9. “But I knew we needed to remain together, no mat-

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ter what direction the river went.”

It turned out their unique qualities fit perfectly, like puzzle pieces, her creative adventurousness matching his calm temperament.

“So much of being in love is an exchange,”

IT TURNED OUT THEIR UNIQUE QUALITIES FIT PERFECTLY, LIKE PUZZLE PIECES, HER CREATIVE ADVENTUROUSNESS MATCHING HIS CALM TEMPERAMENT. “SO MUCH OF BEING IN LOVE IS AN EXCHANGE,” SAYS MARLON.

says Marlon.

They also proved alike where it mattered, with a fierce loyalty to each other’s dreams, from Carla’s career in the arts to Marlon’s pursuits in politics. “He has always supported me doing the things I love,” says Carla, who in turn has been an active spokesperson for his civic endeavors. “I may be the first politician’s wife with visible tattoos, but he loves me to be me.”

Their partnership has led them through many hurdles over 21 years of marriage, including Carla’s kidney transplant and multiple breast cancer diagnoses. Since then, they’ve launched the Carla Hill & Hazel Bethel Breast Cancer and Organ Donation Fund, also honoring Carla’s mother, a fellow breast cancer survivor. The organization campaigns to improve breast cancer awareness and access to mammograms among young women of color.

Through life’s many uncertainties, they’ve learned “to have faith in the love you have,” explains Marlon. “Where we’re going may be unknown. But we know we’re in this together.”

FEATURE // A FASHIONABLE LIFE

a fashionable WITH TANYA MARIE THE DESIGNER

WRITER TANYA MARIE MCLENDON @TANYAMARIETHEDESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

Mix one of my couture gowns with chunky costume jewelry from Charming Charlie.

WHETHER DRESSING YOUR HOME OR YOURSELF, SOMETIMES LESS IS MORE. DURING THE BUDGETBUSTING HOLIDAYS HOWEVER, MORE IS GENERALLY THE WAY TO GO!

MIX AND MATCH Mixed metals—silver and gold finishes together—create contrast and richness.

Mix bling with burlap for example, for a cultured, well-traveled aesthetic.

AS A FASHION AND INTERIOR DESIGNER, I KNOW THAT WITH A LITTLE CREATIVITY IT’S POSSIBLE TO ACHIEVE HIGHEND LOOKS ON A THRIFTY BUDGET. I CALL IT LIVING LIKE A “THRIFTY TRILLIONAIRE.” USE SOME OF THESE TIPS TO DIAL UP YOUR OWN LEVEL OF FABULOUS.

Mix high and low! Pair a $200 novelty reindeer with a $10 mottled, large silver vase from the thrift store, filled with architecturally interesting leaves and flowers from your garden.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX Break large branches off of trees and spray them with metallic paints.

Use beautiful curtains or spreads from your linen closet as table cloths. If in your travels you bought a fabulous pashmina, why not include it casually thrown across an eclectic tablescape?

Shop off-season for your glitzy goods, including your husband’s jacquard jacket, formerly sold at Saks, now 70 percent less at Marshalls or Burlington (he’ll never know the difference).

Shop dollar stores for holiday glassware, metallic plates and linen napkins. You’ll be surprised by what you find.

Contact Tanya Marie at tanyamarie1764@gmail.com islandoriginsmag.com

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STYLE & DESIGN // NEW TRADITIONALIST

NEW TRADITIONALIST

PHOTO: ROBB

MCCORMICK

WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY SOMMER

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AS DESIGN TRENDS COME AND GO, CELEBRATING TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE. THIS RINGS TRUE FOR COLUMBUS, OHIO-BASED INTERIOR DESIGNER JULIE PAULINO. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in New York, the former vintage furniture dealer has lived around the world, from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Munich, Germany. Yet her love for custom woodwork, heirloom prints and handmade finishes always endured.

“I’ve always gravitated towards formality in design,” says Paulino. “So I love translating

these classic influences so they feel more relevant to modern families.”

She’s been sharing the good word through her popular blog Belle Vivir (founded in 2006) and her design firm. For those seeking more gentility in their homes, the designer breaks down her signature blend in these three stunning transformations.

PHOTO: EMILY SOMMER

COUNTRY-STYLE KITCHEN Nothing captures pastoral romance like traditional cottage living.

Paulino was tasked by her client to bring this Arcadian charm to a large kitchen renovation for a home in Dublin, Ohio—but infused with a bit more polish. “The country-style doesn’t need to be extremely rustic to be warm and inviting,” explains the designer.

“There’s room for more sophisticated, clean-lined pieces.”

This balance begins with the custom cabinetry, featuring cottage details like beadboard panels in a whitewashed gray finish.

In contrast, she adds high shine with chrome appliances, quartz countertops and handmade, glazed white subway tiles, which “are a more modern interpretation of the originals that add great texture to the wall.” Rustic features are kept in measured doses, such as live-edge cutting boards, wicker baskets and a vintagestyle island.

These decor accents have room to breathe thanks to a spacious pantry. “There seems to never be enough storage in the kitchen, so we made sure to create places to put things away,” she notes. This frees up visual real estate for open shelving that features quaint ceramics vignettes around the stove area, “which create a more welcoming feel.”

BATHROOM REFRESH For the same client in Dayton, Ohio, the designer infused more contemporary country charm into this airy master bathroom that offers a subtle mix of old and new. The trick, says Paulino, is to juxtapose diverse textures within a unified color scheme.

“People shouldn’t be afraid of mixing materials in the bathroom,” she explains. “Just put all the finishes together and see how they harmonize.”

To create this sense of openness, Paulino merged the former Jack-and-Jill separated bathroom into one central area. With the enlarged space, more white beadboard was added to create a cottage-inspired back-

drop, this time on the walls and the ceiling.

For the vanity, she also employed custom cabinetry in a distressed, soft gray finish.

The shower area received equal care and craftsmanship, featuring glossy white subway tiles contrasted with vintagestyle, white penny tiling in the inset shelf, all punctuated with dark gray grouting. Brushed gold hardware and dainty, shaded sconces also added to the antique spirit.

Paulino then contrasted these surfaces with unapologetically modern accessories, like the lucite-and-brass mirror and display tray for the vanity area.

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STYLE & DESIGN // NEW TRADITIONALIST

PHOTO: ESTHER JUNG

GLOBE-TROTTER BEDROOM A playground for interior experimentation, the prestigious 2019 Columbus Museum of Art Designer Showcase provided the perfect canvas for Paulino to celebrate her contemporary twists on traditional design. When designing this space, “I imagined a well-traveled woman who’s collected a lot of things in her life, and needs to bring all these elements under one roof and make it harmonious and inviting.”

She filled the room with worldly finds celebrating craftsmanship, from the 1940s Italian mirror for the vanity to embroidered pillows on the bed from Istanbul. To ground this global grandeur, she employed a genteel blend of classic prints, made fresh with a pastel palette.

A striped canopy over the bed offered “a modern take on a design element that’s been around for centuries,” explains the designer. Instead of the bulky frames of typical canopy beds, “a simpler way to accomplish this look is installing a curtain rod from the ceiling and hanging the fabric from there.”

Fresh spring green also injected modern energy into the classic chinoiserie pattern on the folding screen.

Paulino completed the nook with an elegant chaise, gold chair and hide rug.

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Let the Influencers Follow You

Hey, explorers, arts lovers, foodies and families.

You’ve chosen a sensational time to visit Greater Fort Lauderdale. In addition to the days of sunshine that lure you to the beautiful beaches and waterways, you’ll find a rich events calendar, unique neighborhoods to explore, and plenty of ways to play on land and water.

Tropical Holiday Celebrations

Although there’s not a snowflake in sight, Greater Fort Lauderdale still gets into the holiday spirit. The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade is back on December 14th, with lights, music and razzledazzle. Enjoy an Old Florida holiday at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Flamingo Gardens, as well as The Stranahan House, which transforms into a Victorian vision of Christmas.

Dine Out…Outside

With 23 miles of beaches and nearly 300 miles of Intracoastal waterways winding throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale, waterfront dining is kind of our thing. If you’re feeling a shorts and sandals type of vibe, relax at Coconuts, Nauti Dawg Marina Café, Park and Ocean, and many other chill lunch spots.

The Big Game & More

This will be the 11th time that South Florida has hosted the world’s greatest football game. Stay at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino with easy access to the Hard Rock Stadium. Take in a show at the Miramar Cultural Center of the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. Enjoy an airboat tour through the Florida Everglades.

And Away We Go

Discover the street art of Hollywood, the live music venues of Riverwalk and Himmarshee, and luxury accommodations from the beachfront to downtown.

Start exploring Greater Fort Lauderdale at sunny.org

THE LIST HOLIDAY BY DESIGN

 FE NOEL RUSTCOLORED COMBO

We love this festive combo by Grenadian-American designer Felisha Noel. From her resort 2019 collection, this outfit pairs light rust sheer palazzo pants with the silky Liz tail blouse.

Pants: $278 Blouse $398 fenoel.com

FORTEZA CARIBBEAN CHOCOLATES



These artisanal bars bring a farm-tobar fine chocolate experience, infused with tropical flavors like passion fruit, coconut and piña colada. The brand exclusively sources its speciality cocoa beans from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. $4.50 - $10 chocolateforteza.com



THE REAL MCCOY

This line includes a bright and citrusy 3-year aged rum, a vanilla-tinged 5-year aged blend, and their grand dame—a mature 12-year aged rum with a velvet smooth finish. (Available at fine spirits stores in South Florida) 3-year aged rum: $19.99 5-year aged rum: $28.99 12-year aged rum: $54.99 realmccoyspirits.com

  MAX COCKTAIL RING AND TRINITY CUFF BRACELET

Dominican jewelry designer Monica Varela’s eponymous brand features innovative techniques and an eclectic mix of materials. Pair this iconic ring with the matching bracelet, both of which blend gold with colorful microscopic fibers.

Ring: $340 Bracelet: $490 monicavarela.com

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THE LIST HOLIDAY BY DESIGN

 FOR HIM AND HER: ZIV KEYCHAIN & LYLA SHOULDER BAG

FOR HER: this bag from Kyu By Kesi is inspired by the glittering clutches of the roaring 1920s. Jamaican designer Kesi Gibson brings serious glamour with golden, embossed Italian calfskin and 24K gold-plated metallic hardware. FOR HIM: the coordinating Ziv keychain features authentic springbok skin from Colombia.

Shoulder Bag: $775 Keychain: $45 kyubykesi.com

 CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS CANDLE

These handmade candles feature lush notes of ginger, bergamot and vetiver. The family-owned brand donates 10 percent of their profits to D.C. homeless shelters. $25 freresbranchiaux.com

PLANTING STORIES: THE LIFE OF LIBRARIAN AND STORYTELLER PURA BELPRÉ



 DOWN IN JAMAICA: 40 YEARS OF VP RECORDS

This beautiful limited edition box set celebrates 40 years of this iconic Jamaican music label with a bevy of stars, from reggae crooners like Dennis Brown and Gregory Issacs, to dancehall legends like Yellowman and Buju Banton.

Inspire your little ones with this beautifullyillustrated children’s book by Anika Aldamuy Denise, which tells about the life of New York City’s first Puerto Rican librarian, who also championed bilingual literature. $17.99 harpercollins.com

$149.98 vpreggae.com

FANM DJANM XOXO HEADWRAP



Get into the spirit of the season with this handmade headwrap by Haitianborn designer Paola Mathé.

The classic red-and-green plaid pattern will add a dose of Christmas to any outfit. $42 fanmdjanm.com

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TRAVEL // CHRISTMAS IN THE SUN

SPEND YOUR WINTER

IN THE SUN WRITER STEVE BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

LIKE BIRDS FLYING TO WARMER CLIMES IN THE WINTERTIME, TRAVELERS AROUND THE WORLD WILL AGAIN ANSWER THE SIREN CALL OF THE CARIBBEAN’S TROPICAL SUNSHINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. IN THE REGION, THE FESTIVITIES GO WELL BEYOND GIFT-GIVING, FIREWORKS AND DECKING THE HALLS. HERE ARE SOME OF THE SPECIAL PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO SEE WHEN CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS AND WELCOMING THE NEW YEAR IN THE WEST INDIES. 30

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PHOTO: COURTESY U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

For locals in St. Croix, Christmas is synonymous with carnival time.

True revelers can find everything they love about Caribbean-style carnivals at the Crucian Christmas Festival—a month-long celebration that energizes the entire island with the holiday spirit. Think cultural pageants, vibrant calypso competitions, and elaborate costume parades.

Though events are held island-wide, the official marquee celebrations happen in Frederiksted. The festivities are enjoyed throughout much of December, and even spill into the first days of January, starting with the popular St. Croix Festival Queen pageant.

The main action, however, begins December 25 with the official gospel concert in Frederiksted, featuring a bevy of traditional holiday carols. After Christmas

PHOTO: COURTESY U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

PHOTO: COURTESY U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Day, the party kicks up several notches with the opening of the Christmas Festival Village. At this charming event, visitors can enjoy live musical performances, hop onto classic carnival rides, and explore handmade crafts and culinary delights from local vendors.

From here, the music and fetes run nightly through to Three

Kings Day, on January 6. Mustsee events include the wet and wild j’ouvert parade (free for all), as well as the Culture Night concert where old-school calypsonians strut their stuff. This all culminates with the grand adult parade—where the good times most certainly roll—filled with stunningly crafted costumes.

St. Vincent Getting up at the crack of dawn isn’t just for kids wanting to peek at presents during Christmas in St. Vincent. Here, grown-ups have their own pre-dawn fun during the island’s annual Nine Mornings Festival.

This celebration, which dates back to the early 1900s, has roots in the tradition of Catholic novena—a public devotional prayer that is repeated for nine days. Following early-morning church services, it’s said Vin-

centians paraded through the streets, often enjoying a sea dip along the way. This eventually evolved into the Nine Mornings celebrations of today.

True to its name, the fete runs over nine consecutive mornings, leading up to Christmas Eve. The biggest celebrations concentrate around the capital Kingstown. But don’t sleep on charming celebrations held in rural communities like the southeast enclave of Stubbs,

which has won the Best Nine Mornings Community Award several times.

The series of events is always filled with creole dances, caroling, street parades, string bands, boom drums, and sea baths. A wild and raucous jump-up is held on the final morning of the festival on Christmas Eve. Celebrated nowhere else, Nine Mornings is a uniquely Vincentian expression of local culture, faith, and fun.

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TRAVEL // CHRISTMAS IN THE SUN

the streets, inviting any and all to join the singing and merriment. Hotels and restaurants across the island host their own Chanté Nwel events, making it easy for visitors to get into the spirit.

Fueling the fun is Martinique’s traditional holiday tipple, shrubb. Sweet, strong, and sassy, shrubb is to Christmas in Martinique as eggnog is to the holiday season in the United States. The spicy liqueur is made from the dried peels of oranges, which abound in Martinique in December. Believe it—a shot of shrubb in Martinique will have you caroling in Creole whether you speak the language or not.

PHOTO: COURTESY BAHAMAS MINISTRY OF TOURISM

West Indian people love making music, so it’s no surprise that caroling is a big part of winter holiday celebrations across the islands. In Martinique, the tradition takes on a personality all its own in a celebration called Chanté Nwel.

Every night for three weeks before Christmas Day, Martinicans gather together to share food and sing songs all night long. The playlist is a mix of standard carols and cherished local tunes sung in Creole, with a local percussion instrument called the ti bwa adding rhythm and spice.

This unique celebration isn’t confined to private homes. Celebrations often spill into

PHOTO: UNCOMMON CARIBBEAN

Martinique

The ball drops. Champagne gets toasted. Fireworks ensue... yawn. For a lot more excitement, you’ll want to ring in the New Year in Nassau. Here, the final celebration of the year is all about Junkanoo.

Junkanoo fetes Bahamian culture through a vibrant explosion of colors, music, dance, and revelry. The tradition dates back to the days of slavery in The Bahamas. Origin stories vary, though many say the event stems from celebrations held in honor of

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PHOTO: SHANE PINDER

Nassau, The Bahamas

John Canoe, an African folk hero who spent decades thwarting British colonial rule.

The modern-day celebrations

continue as a massive street parade, starting on Boxing Day, December 26. Downtown Nassau becomes a riot of color as

local bands compete for best costumes and street floats, all while marching to a blend of traditional drums and big brass sounds.

The party continues with the popular New Year’s Day Carnival parade. Welcoming the New Year, the carnival parade begins after midnight with huge troupes of Junkanoo revelers numbering in the thousands—all performing their hearts out for the top prize. Onlookers dance along, shouting support for their favorite bands as the last night of the old year gives way to a bright and raucous beginning of the new one.

CULTURE // 12 MONTHS OF ART

CELEBRATE 12 MONTHS OF

ART IN HALLANDALE BEACH

THE SUN-KISSED CITY OF HALLANDALE BEACH WELCOMES AN EXTRA DOSE OF COLOR AND VIBRANCY IN 2020 AS THEY LAUNCH THEIR NEW PROGRAM, 12 MONTHS OF ART—A YEAR-LONG CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS CREATIVE. LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE CAN EXPLORE MULTIPLE EVENTS AND SHOWCASES HIGHLIGHTING UNIQUE EXPERIENCES, INCLUDING FINE CUISINE, ART, CULTURE, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP. WRITER FELICITY DARVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY SOPHIE BONET

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THE PROGRAM seeks to create a greater sense of place through art activation, explains Faith Phinn, the redevelopment and operations manager for Hallandale Beach.

“I am personally excited about this initiative to rebrand our city, to help shape its identity and meet members of the community,” says Phinn. “I believe this arts initiative will give the community and its residents a sense of pride and excitement.”

Expect to see family-friendly art events taking place at Hallandale Beach’s public parks. “Vibrant Hydrants” is one project, engaging local artists and residents to collaboratively beautify fire hydrants throughout the city. The 12 Months of Art program also features large-scale mural projects, where local artists will reinvigorate empty wall spaces with culturally uplifting works, creating photo opportunities for selfies, social media postings and family albums.

Among the mural artists is Denise Charles, aka “Blu Tattoo,” who was born in Venezuela with Guyanese and Trinidadian roots. She grew up in New York City and is heavily influenced by hip-hop culture, Pan-Africanism and alchemy, which results in a raw, unique blend of color and provocative concepts, setting her apart from other artists.

“The mural will represent the richness and diversity of African culture,” says Charles about her upcoming project in Foster Park.

“The Maasai Tribe of East Africa—a people whose traditions and beliefs span centuries—represent the strength and adversity of our ancestors, strength that we can tap into now as a source of motivation and inspiration to be great.”

The 12 Months of Art celebration was birthed by the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency Executive Director and Assistant City Manager, Dr. Jeremy Earle, and is led in partnership with ArtServe and the Broward County Florida Cultural Division. As a true community affair, the initiative will be run with the support and participation of volunteers and local businesses.

The project marks just a small part of the city’s recent blossoming, spurred by a burgeoning creative community with a rich mix of beaches, upscale retail and dining opportunities, cultural growth, and business expansion. This includes the upcoming revitalization of the Fashion Arts Design District (FADD), offering creative activities that will attract new patrons.

At its core, 12 Months of Art seeks to celebrate the city as a true arts destination, says Phinn—providing a central foundation for arts programming and collaborations between artists and organizations. “The event will add culture, character and unique shopping opportunities to the city, and will brand Hallandale as a beacon for emerging talents and art innovation.”

IT’S HAPPENING IN HALLANDALE

Explore the City of Hallandale Beach to discover a new art scene.

Come out to the City of Hallandale Beach to experience the arts! Take a selfie at the new Foster Park Murals or check out the newly painted fire hydrants around the amazing Peter Bluesten Park. There’s so much to discover in Hallandale Beach.

Don’t miss out on amazing free art events featuring live music, virtual reality painting, food trucks, performing artists and more – it’s all Happening in Hallandale!

CREATE ART WITH US! The Arts Hallandale Beach project is seeking artists, performers, bands, and others to help develop a vibrant new arts scene created by the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency..

Visit artserve.org/hallandale to find out more.

See “Vibrant Hydrants” at Peter Bluesten Park.

Presented by ArtServe in partnershipislandoriginsmag.com with the Hallandale Beach CRA

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TASTE THE ISLANDS // RESTAURANT REVIEW

DUKUNOO

JAMAICAN KITCHEN IN THE CULINARY LANDSCAPE OF MIAMI’S TRENDY WYNWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD, DUKUNOO JAMAICAN KITCHEN IS A WELCOME ADDITION FOR CARIBBEAN FOODIES. THE NEW EATERY CELEBRATES CLASSIC JAMAICAN DISHES WITH AN ELEVATED, MODERN TWIST. WRITER DAVID I. MUIR PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR CO-OWNER LEONIE MCKOY was inspired by the iconic flavors of her childhood when imagining the new restaurant. “We wanted to stick to simple recipes from way back, but bring it up a level in looks and presentation,” she explains.

The chic new space trumpets its island pride, with reggae music playing in the background and colorful Jamaican coffee-table books in their well-appointed waiting area. The dining room has a simple, rustic ambiance, with a lively bar and a partially open kitchen.

For lunch, my server Rico “Suave” suggested some of the restaurant’s signature options. He started me off with their savory saltfish fritters, or “flittaz” as they’re fondly called, served on a bed of grilled corn and topped with curled scallion. Shaped into neat spheres, these tender morsels offered a crunchy exterior and pillowy soft interior flecked with aromatic seasonings and hints of fish. Both their aioli sauce and pep-

Saltfish Flittaz

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pery hot sauce paired perfectly with the appetizers.

My cocktail “Lively Up Yourself” was a mixture of Appleton Estate Reserve rum, pineapple, guava and lime, topped with mint. I loved the creative touch of using frozen fruit instead of ice, which kept my drink cool without diluting it.

This cocktail reminded me of a classic Jamaican rum punch, but with a little more swagger.

For my entrée, I dived into their oxtail, presented with a pile of steaming rice and peas.

The ultimate comfort food, the oxtail stew was filled with spinners (dumplings), butter beans

“Lively Up Yourself” Cocktail with Rice & Peas and Oxtail Stew

and rich gravy, while the meat was fall-offthe-bone tender. The dish was tame enough for novices trying Jamaican cuisine for the first time, but as an island man, I made good use of the pepper sauce available for personal adjustments. The rice and peas side was also flavorful and aromatic, with thyme, coconut milk and scallions.

The meal ended with smooth, rich chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream. The pairing proved extra luxurious, especially topped with chocolate syrup and coconut shavings. Served quite innocently on the side of the dessert plate were three slices of caramelized lime. Out of curiosity, I tried one and was blown away by these energizing little bites, the highlight of a hearty lunch.

Dukunoo’s staff was friendly and attentive, and the owner was a delight. For a quick trip to Jamaica (without the plane ride) visit at 310 NW 24th Street in Wynwood, Miami.

Chocolate Cake and Vanilla Ice Cream

TASTE THE ISLANDS // SEASON'S EATINGS

CHEF CONFIDENTIAL

SEASON’S EATINGS

ASK ANY CHEF ABOUT MEMORIES OF THEIR FAMILY’S HOLIDAY MEALS, AND YOU’RE BOUND TO GET A GOOD STORY. SEEKING INSPIRATION FOR OUR OWN HOLIDAY TABLES, WE TURNED TO SOME AMAZING CARIBBEAN CHEFS AND MIXOLOGISTS TO SHARE THEIR FAVORITE SEASONAL COCKTAILS AND DISHES, FROM FAMILY STAPLES TO PERSONAL TWISTS ON SOME OLD CLASSICS. WRITER JONATHAN RAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

WINSTON WILLIAMS Chef Winston’s enthusiasm for all things culinary is contagious. Originally from the U.S. Virgin Islands, he brings his “Floribbean” style to high-end events across South Florida, from food festivals to glamorous weddings and parties. As owner of the popular full-service catering company, Catering CC, he keeps a jam-packed work schedule, but still manages to entertain and inform oversix thousand subscribers on his YouTube channel.

For Chef Winston, the holiday season is all about the sweetness of family gatherings, of which tasty food and beverages were always a part. As a kid, he especially looked forward to lattice-topped fruit tarts—pineapple, guava, and coconut, to name a few—and homemade mauby drink every year. “Grandma and Mom would bake tarts,” h e re m e m bers, “and you could smell them throughout the house,” while the mauby fermented in the corner.

Find the recipes at islandoriginsmag.com.

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VIRGIN ISLANDS COCONUT TART MAUBY • 1 ounce sweet marjoram • 1 ounce rosemary •4 (3-inch) chips of mauby bark • Peel of 1 fresh orange • 3 pounds sugar • 1 ounce star anise • 1 cinnamon stick • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg • 1/2 tablespoon cake yeast

Boil bark, peel and herbs in one quart of water to make bitters. Fill another container with a gallon of water and sweeten with sugar. Add the bitters, then toss mixture with a ladle. When the mixture begins to foam, add the yeast. Strain through a cheesecloth and bottle. Let stand overnight.

MAUBY



RAYMOND EDWARDS

“Most people associate the name Angostura with the popular bitters, but that is by no means the company’s only product,” explains the brand’s award-winning Mixologist Raymond Edwards. Born and raised in the seaside village of Toco in Trinidad, Raymond’s jump from internationally competing bartender to chief mixologist for the House of Angostura brand felt natural. When he’s not traveling, studying, or inventing new cocktails, he also mentors young hopefuls.

When he thinks of the holiday season, two things come to mind: parang music and ponche de crème, both essential components of the “explosion of culture that is Trinidad and Tobago.” During the season, Raymond and friends used to start “paranging at 5 a.m.,” and the “ponches” would start flowing not too long after. Made traditionally with 75 percent proof rum, ponche de crème is a sweet, boozeforward, creamy beverage—and a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

Find the recipe at islandoriginsmag.com.

WILD STYLE MODERN CARIBBEAN TURKEY ROULADE AND DJON DJON RICE ( BLACK MUSHROOM RICE) Ponche De Crème



VICKY COLAS

Are you looking to start a small culinary-related business, but don’t want the overhead that comes with maintaining an industrial kitchen? Chef Vicky Colas, owner of Pro Kitchen Hub, has just the solution for you. Born and raised in Haiti, awardwinning Chef Vicky’s commissary-style rental kitchen provides the perfect space for caterers, bakers, and food truckers galore. However, the community-minded Chef Vicky still manages to find the time in her demanding schedule to give back, partnering with many local nonprofits throughout South Florida for her nutritional education endeavors.

Growing up in Haiti, Chef Vicky’s holiday experience was centered around her family’s compound. Her grandfather owned and operated a rum distillery, and a couple months before Christmas, he would bring home a wild turkey. “When we saw the turkey, we knew the holidays were coming,” she remembers. Served with classic Haitian djon djon (or black mushroom) rice, her recipe for turkey roulade may be a bit fancier than the family’s original dish, but the essential flavors remain the same.

• 2 eggs, beaten (optional) • 2 teaspoons grated lime zest • 3 (14 ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk •3 /4 cup canned evaporated milk •1 cup Angostura 7-Year Rum •1 /2 cup Forres Park Puncheon Rum • F reshly grated nutmeg •8 dashes of Angostura bitters

In a large bowl, beat eggs and lime zest using an electric mixer or swizzle stick until light and fluffy. Gradually pour in the condensed milk while continuing to mix, and then pour in the evaporated milk. Stir in the rum and bitters, and sprinkle with nutmeg. Transfer to a bottle and chill for at least one hour before serving. Serve over crushed ice.

Garnish with cinnamon stick.

PONCHE DE CRÈME

Find the recipes at islandoriginsmag.com. islandoriginsmag.com

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TASTE THE ISLANDS // SEASON'S EATINGS

SIAN ROSE

Chef Sian moved from her native Jamaica to South Florida when she was 10 years old. She’s been back and forth to the island dozens of times since then. Her love of cooking originated in the place where she was born. In 2008 she founded Sian’s Cooking, the catering company specializing in Caribbean cuisine she now operates out of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. In addition to capitalizing on her cooking skills, Chef Sian keeps a a blog called “Sian’s Cooking,” where she catalogues her “ongoing food ventures.”

Mannish water (or goat soup) is the first thing Sian thinks of when asked about Jamaican holiday cuisine. This soup is “not for the faint of heart,” she says, as the main ingredients “are goat’s head, tripe” and other unmentionable parts. Growing up on the island, Sian remembers being acutely aware the holidays were near when the family brought home a male goat. Years later, she still makes sure her uncle freezes some of his holiday soup for her, sometimes keeping it for months before she visits the island. Her recipe is slightly adapted, but still true to the original.

Sorrel Punch • 2 ounces dark rum • 1.5 ounces sorrel syrup • 3 ounces grapefruit juice • 3 dashes Angostura bitters

PHOTO: FLIX PHOTOGRAPHY 246

Pour ingredients into a shaker tin/mixing vessel and shake vigorously to chill and infuse flavors.

Pour over fresh ice and serve.

SORREL PUNCH

Find the recipe at islandoriginsmag.com.

PHILIP “CASANOVA” ANTOINE

Known throughout the Caribbean nightlife scene as “Casanova,” Philip Antoine’s charisma and unique mixology style has earned him multiple awards, including 2015’s Barbados Bartender of the Year. Always inventive, Casanova creates exotic cocktails that are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. When he’s not mixing drinks behind the bar, he keeps busy by teaching the art of mixology to eager up-and-comers.

Although several seasonal beverages come to mind for Casanova, homemade sorrel juice ultimately invokes the holidays the most.

“One fond memory I have was picking the pods with my grandma and putting the petals to dry,” he says, “I remember anxiously looking forward to making sorrel juice.” Casanova currently has a sorrel-based rum punch in his line of bottled cocktails from his brand, Liquid Artistry, that’s dangerously delicious.

Find the recipe at islandoriginsmag.com.

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PASTELES EN HOJA

DANNY PEÑALO DOMINGUEZ

Executive chef at the prestigious restaurant Yarumba, in Miami Gardens, Danny Peñalo Dominguez has made quite a name for himself in South Florida. Originally from Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, Chef Danny creates cuisine that puts a modern spin on traditional Dominican recipes. As a highly trained chef, he is committed to passing on culinary knowledge to aspiring chefs and acting as an “ambassador of gastronomy” at various events in South Florida and the Caribbean.

“Christmas Eve is the most important of the holidays and the best meal of the year,” he recalls of his family’s celebrations. The festivities typically begin on December 23, with the family gathering and getting into holiday mode with an enormous meal prep. Though a robust meal with many components, Christmas Eve dinner wouldn’t be complete without pasteles en hoja, a Dominican-style tamale made of plantains and beef.

Find the recipe at islandoriginsmag.com.

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.

Nathalee Hayden, Broker 101 NE Third Ave suite 1500 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301  954-951-0240  nathalee@haydenpropertiesinc.com

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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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 BUTTERFLAKES | $ Jamaican Local spot for patties and hot food.

5100 W Commercial Blvd #3, Tamarac butterflakesbakery.com

CALYPSO RESTAURANT & RAW BAR | $$ Caribbean Try their Caribbean-style seafood and Jamaican jerk and curry dishes.

460 S Cypress Rd, Pompano Beach calypsorestaurant.com

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

CONCH KRAWL CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Bahamian, Seafood Enjoy traditional Bahamian and other Caribbean dishes.

2600 S University Dr #106, Miramar

DON ARTURO RESTAURANT | $$ Cuban Serving traditional recipes & drinks in kid-friendly environment.

1198 SW 27th Ave, Fort Lauderdale

FIERY IRIE | $$ Caribbean All your favorite authentic Jamaican dishes.

100 S Flamingo Rd, Pembroke Pines fieryirie.com

donarturorestaurant.com

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

DONNA’S CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican food all day, plus cocktails and Sunday brunch. Nine locations around South Florida.

5434 N University Drive, Lauderhill donnascaribbean.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.

3120 W Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale dutchpotrestaurants.com

ESTEFAN KITCHEN | $$$ Cuban Star-powered destination for upscale Cuban cuisine.

140 NE 39th St #133, Miami

finleysbahamianrestaurant.com

HAVANA 1957 | $$ Cuban Quick bites in a buzzing backdrop with Havana memorabilia 405 Espanola Way, Miami Beach havana1957.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 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 JAMAICA KITCHEN | $$ Jamaican Known for their extra spicy beef patties 8736 SW 72nd St, Miami www.jamaicakitchen.com

JOY’S ROTI DELIGHT | $$ Trinidadian, Indian counter-service 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

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 lalloscaribbeanrestaurant.com

LAS OLAS CAFE | $ Cuban Freshly squeezed juices and Cuban sandwiches.

644 6th St, Miami Beach 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

EL OTRO TIESTO CAFE | $$ Dominican Dominican-Japanese fusion with a twist.

3023 Biscayne Blvd, Miami elotrotiestocafemiami.com

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 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 DECEMBER

Current - 07/07/2020

The Other Side of Now: Foresight in Contemporary Caribbean Art WHERE: Pérez Art Museum Miami, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami ADMISSION: $12 - $16 INFO: pamm.org A thematic group exhibition that sets its sights on times to come, exploring radical imaginations that expand a picture of the Caribbean towards a present-future.

12/01

Miami MoCAAD/Lowe Museum Art Week Basel Kickoff

WHERE: University of Miami Lowe Art Museum, 1301 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables ADMISSION: $0 INFO: miamimocaad.com A reception featuring artist Juan Roberto Diago and Alejandro de la Fuente, curator and founding director of Afro-Latin American Research Institute.

12/01/2019 - 1/26/2020

MUCE Arts & Culture Festival: Ode 2 Hip Hop

WHERE: MUCE Complex, 246 Northwest 54th Street, Miami ADMISSION: $0 INFO: muce305.org A dynamic exhibition that embodies the graffiti, clothes, breakdancing, album covers and other art forms of hip hop.

12/02 - 12/08

Prizm Art Fair

WHERE: Alfred I. DuPont Building, 169 E Flagler St, Miami ADMISSION: $0 - $200 INFO: prizmartfair.com A cutting-edge, multidisciplinary cultural platform exhibiting international artists from Africa, the African Diaspora and emerging markets, who reflect global trends in contemporary art.

12/07 - 12/09

We Are Who We Are — Art Basel Miami 2019

AfroBasel Miami: Afro-Caribbean Day Party

WHERE: 8260 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Miami ADMISSION: $0 INFO: miamiculturemaven.com Griot’s Gallery and Academy is teaming up with Artist Frank Frazier for another year of Art Basel Miami activities at the Center For Haitian Studies in Little Haiti.

12/06

AFRIKIN 2019: Art of Conversation

WHERE: New World Center, 500 17th Street, Miami Beach ADMISSION: $40 INFO: afrikin.org A discussion on the necessity of love as a unifying force in our communities and in our world will be the central theme of the next AFRIKIN® Talks.

12/06

Building a Feminist Archive: Cuban Women Photographers in the US

WHERE: Bailey Contemporary Arts, 41 NE1st Street, Pompano Beach ADMISSION: $0 INFO: baileyarts.org Shows the varied contributions of Cuban women artists living and working in the U.S. since the seventies, when the concept of a collective “Latino” identity became crucial.

12/06

Sueños “An Exile Journey” The Musical in Concert

WHERE: Koubek Center Theater, 2705 SW 3rd Street, Miami ADMISSION: $40 INFO: suenoselmusical.com Portrays the tragedy, suffering, courage and triumphs of one of the most captivating events of the 20th Century.

12/05

12/07 - 12/09

DLO, VAN, DESTRIKSYON - Art & Cultural Soirée

Umbrellas of Little Havana

WHERE: Donna E. Shalala Student Center University of Miami, 1330 Miller Dr, Miami ADMISSION: $100 - $10000 INFO: womenandgirlsinitiative.org Headlined by Haitian American women artists, including New York’s singer/dancer and cultural ambassador, Riva Nyri Precil.

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12/06 - 12/08

islandoriginsmag.com

WHERE: Futurama 1637, 1637 SW 8th Street, Miami ADMISSION: $0 INFO: miamiandbeaches.com This collective art exhibition celebrates beautiful patio umbrellas painted by 25 - 30 local and international artists during Miami Art Week on historic Calle Ocho,in Little Havana.

WHERE: Miami Beach, Florida ADMISSION: $15 INFO: eventbrite.com An Afro-Caribbean celebration of art, music and fashion.

12/08

Broward County BB&T Business Conference & EXPO 2019

WHERE: BB&T Center, 1 Panther Pkwy, Sunrise, Florida ADMISSION: 15 – $4,995 INFO: browardbiz.com Put your business, brand, products and services in the spotlight.

12/08

Classically Cuban Concert: “Lineage,” with David Virelles

WHERE: FIU Wertheim Performing Arts Center, 10910 SW 17th St., Miami ADMISSION: $15 INFO: cri.fiu.edu Featuring Cuban-American pianist and composer David Virelles.

12/13

Jazz Encounters Concert + Jam

WHERE: WDNA FM, 2921 Coral Way, Miami ADMISSION: $10 INFO: wdna.org The series features some of South Florida’s top jazz and fusion composers and players, with an occasional spotlight on national and touring artists.

12/14

“The Nutcracker” presented by Miami Cuban Ballet School

WHERE: Seminole Theatre, 18 N Krome Ave, Homestead ADMISSION: $25 - $35 INFO: cri.fiu.edu A brand new production filled with spectacular scenery, colorful costumes and fascinating characters.

12/14

MDCC | 14th Annual Holiday Gala

WHERE: Hilton Miami Downtown, 1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami ADMISSION: $200 – $2,250 INFO: eventbrite.com Join the Miami-Dade Chamber for the 14th annual Holiday Gala presented by Royal Caribbean International.

12/14

CMEx Leadership Awards – 2019

WHERE: JW Marriott Marquis Miami, 255 Biscayne Blvd, Miami ADMISSION: $100 INFO: cmexmedia.org At CMEX’s Leadership Awards, pioneers of the travel and tourism industry are recognized for their commitment to sustainable tourism development.

12/14

Caribbean Today 31st Anniversary Celebration

WHERE: Miriam Dean Pratt Community Center, 11201 SW 160th Street, Miami ADMISSION: $100 INFO: caribbeantoday.com Celebrating 31 years of Caribbean Today.

JANUARY 01/14 - 01/18

St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival — Sugar Mas

WHERE: St. Kitts & Nevis ADMISSION: INFO: stkittstourism.kn Visitors know it as the St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival. The locals call it Sugar Mas. 01/18

ArtServe Presents Roots of the Spirit VIP Preview Reception

WHERE: Artserve Fort Lauderdale, 1350 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale ADMISSION: $37.50

INFO: artserve.org/roots-of-the-spirit A multimedia exhibition stimulating awareness of the philosophical and spiritual ideas that have emerged from the African Diaspora.

01/18

Tito Puente, Jr

WHERE: The Lyric Theatre, 59 SW Flagler Ave, Stuart ADMISSION: $50 INFO: lyrictheatre.com Tito Puente Jr, the son of El Rey, the King.

FEBRUARY 02/15

Néstor Torres Group

WHERE: Bailey Hall, 3501 Davie Rd, Davie, Florida ADMISSION: $10 - $51 INFO: baileyhall.org South Florida jazz series at Bailey Hall 02/15

Old School Music Celebration: Regina Belle & Freddie Jackson

WHERE: Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill, Florida ADMISSION: $0 INFO: lpacfl.com A smooth R&B concert celebration for St. Valentine’s weekend.

02/24-02/25

Trinidad Carnival 2020

WHERE: Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago ADMISSION: $0

INFO: ttconnect.gov.tt Trinidad Carnival is one of the best and biggest festivals in Caribbean, and a most fantastical revelry.

02/29-03/01

Miss Haiti Florida

WHERE: Gallery of Amazing Things, 481 South Federal Highway ADMISSION: $40 – $100 INFO: eventbrite.com An exclusive event that brings young Haitian women together to showcase the richness of Haitian culture.

MARCH

03/13 - 03/15

BRT Weekend: “Jamaica” 3-Day Caribbean Music Festival

WHERE: Ocho Rios, St. Ann Parish ADMISSION: $300 – $500 INFO: brtweekend.com Created in 2012, Beach Road Trip Weekend, or #BRTweekend, is the ultimate destination, dayparty series.

03/20 - 03/22

Reggae Rise Up Music Festival 2020

WHERE: Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Dr NE, Saint Petersburg, Florida ADMISSION: $25-$240 INFO: reggaeriseupflorida.com Three full days of amazing music, food, merchandise, art, activities and good vibes, March 20th 22nd at Vinoy Park!

J'OUVERT

FEATURE // MIAMI CARNIVAL 2019

ttle bers a full thro fered their memium full bar for the of t er uv J’o a prem ly White Groups like Li cluding gourmet breakfast,emorate the event. experience, inof exclusive items to comm day, and tons

PHOTO: MARK JAMES

K JAM PHOTO: MAR

ES

PHOTO: MARK JAMES

Saturday, October 12 marked a major pre-Carnival day of revelry, as the epic street party known as J’ouvert drew thousands into Central Broward Park.

More than 10 groups participated in the day-long event, pumping colored paint, foam and water into the air on their followers.

Neither the distinct differences between J’ouvert groups nor nationalities could stop the one-love vibes of the day, as revelers hailing from across the Caribbean formed new bonds among the crowd.

The event perfectly built up the momentum for the road march to come.

MIAMI CARNIVAL 2019:

COLOR & CULTURE IN THE MAGIC CITY The intense, rhythmic sounds of soca music filled the air in South Florida for this year’s Miami carnival celebrations.

Starting with an energetic Panorama showdown, Junior Carnival road march and raucous J’ouvert, the celebrations culminated with the grand parade on Sunday, October 13. At the main event, masqueraders converged in full costume, transforming the Miami-Dade County Fair and Expo Center into a riot of color and Caribbean frivolity. Let’s take a moment to look back at this year’s landmark event, celebrating 35 years of Miami Carnival.

WRITER JOHN HALL PHOTOGRAPHY MARK JAMES AND IAN RAMDIAL @MYMATV

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PHOTO: IAN RAMDIAL @MYMATV

CARNIVAL

PHOTO: IAN RAMDIAL @MYMATV

PHOTO: MARK JAMES

The Red Antz truck kept the soca booming as their masqueraders made their way slowly through the parade. The groups walked for what felt like miles in the Miami sun, displaying the spirit and vitality that is Carnival.

Concert headliner, Trinidadian soca star Kes’ hits “Savannah Grass” and “Wotless” doubtlessly played several hundred times throughout the weekend.

Still, nothing proved more powerful than his live performance, filling the stage with pure energy and enthusiasm.

Thousands of carnival fans from around the world teemed around the stage as they cheered on their favorite mas bands and music performers commanding the spotlight well into the night. There was an electrifying excitement and exhilaration in the air at the festivities came to a close.

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PHOTO: IAN RAMDIAL @MYMATV

The Euphoria Mas band was pretty in pink this year, with elaborate costumes cladding men and women alike in flirty feathers and beading for their All That Jazz section.

FINAL THOUGHT

A NEW

DAY

WRITER CALIBE THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

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“EVERY MIDNIGHT STARTS A BRAND NEW DAY.” It’s one of the favorite lyrics I’ve written that my mother loves to quote back to me, specifically when I’m having a rough time. I haven’t heard it too much recently, but as one year changes to the next, I figured it might be a nice thought to share with our readers. Around this time, many people think wistfully about the unkept commitments of the old year, and the resolutions soonto-be-broken in the coming one. Personally, I’m not one to buy into New Year’s resolutions. I genuinely believe that each midnight—indeed each moment—offers another chance to make a change, if that’s what we’ve decided in the previous moment is what we need to do.

I’m an advocate for doing “it” day by day, not focusing on a better you only once a year.

If you’re younger, each Christmas season and the presents promised bring new excitement and anticipation. As we get older, each New Year brings with it carefully calculated plans, hopes and ambitions. Each Valentine’s Day inspires desires for renewed love in those who already have it, and the dream of love for those who don’t.

Of course, lots of folks think these holidays are all a profit-making scam. But even with all the cynicism surrounding holidays, I still believe that people enjoy the spirit of the seasons. Not for the religious affiliations, not even necessarily so much for the gifts, but for the idea that we can celebrate not being in the world alone.

That feeling transcends from Thanksgiving and Christmas through the New Year and Valentine’s Day. We share different kinds of love depending on the (highly commercialized) occasion, but it’s still real love, and it still manifests in heartfelt giving, family, and feelings of togetherness.

In this issue, I enjoyed every detail, from helping to promote charitable giving, to learning about love that stands the test of time, to having a secret fetish of mine validated—using things like twigs and burlap to make my space look fabulous! I learned so much about the cultures of our neighboring islands, their holiday traditions, and what to do if I ever make it to one of these places during the season—much more than what your typical all-inclusive hotel might offer.

As always, we encourage you to learn about and buy things Caribbean-made, even when you’re hungry! Find gourmet chocolates for your sweetheart, to new and established island rums for the connoisseur in your life, to pasteles en hoja at Yarumba Restaurant when you just need someone else to satisfy your culinary cravings.

Once you’ve made it through the indulgence of the holidays, after you’ve eaten too much and spent too much, the things that remain after clean-up are your family, your friends and the endearing, mundane, precious things that make your life your own. Whether those things bring joy to your life every day or not, I encourage you to appreciate each new day you have with them, and each new day you have to make life better.

Happy New Year! #islandorigins