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Vol #15 9TH edition
SEPT 2017
Articles
Contents
Feature Articles
8 4 HABITS OF #STELLAR ENTREPRENEURS 10 THE CULINARY ENTHUSIAST 12 EDITOR’S DESK 16 ANYTHING GOES LIVE! 2017 GALLERY 22 WIA PIX
24 THE REGGAE CHEFS: HELPING FUTURE TEACHERS TO BE MORE CULTURALLY AWARE 28 JAMAICA - GOOD NEWS! BAD NEWS! 32 MIX UP & BLEN BLEN 34 THE REGGAE CHEFS TEAM UP WITH MAJOR AIRLINE TO PROMOTE HERITAGE PRESERVATION
dj gringo
dy dy
Keishera James
pg.18 pg.20
pg.21
CHAIRMAN & PUBLISHER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
PHOTOGRAPHER
LEGAL COUNSELOR
PHOTOGRAPHERS
CLIVE WILLIAMS
CLIVE WILLIAMS
COREY MUNROE, ROLAND HYDE
MARK CRAWFORD
UNIVERSAL PRODUCTIONS
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
ART DIRECTOR
NEW MEDIA INITIATIVES
CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS
CHRISTIAN XAVIER JONES
ROCKSTONE MEDIA GROUP
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
MANAGING EDITOR OF ONLINE MAGAZINE
CONTROLLER
ANNETTE GORDON
CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS
MICHELLE WILLIAMS
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ON THE COVER IMAGE ANNETTE GORDON - DR. CLIVE WILLIAMS DY DY, DJ GRINGO, KEISHERA JAMES CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS - PATRICK A. STERLING LEONARD MCKENZIE - JAHLISA HARVEY TAGGY-L - SHANTEL RANKINE - C.L. GODFREY MONIQUE C. - STACEY BERRY
INQUIRIIES
Clive Williams (917) 749-7613
wiaeditors@gmail.com
www.gowhereitzat.com www.facebook.com/whereitzatmagazine twitter.com/gowhereitzat
WhereItzAt Magazine is published monthly by WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. WhereItzAt Magazine is a registered trademark of WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written consent is prohibited. Views of editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of WhereItzAt Magazine, WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. or its advertisers. For questoins, comments and concerns address your letters to: WhereItzAt Magazine • 219-10 S. Conduit Avenue • Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 or email:editors@whereitzatmag.com WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. 461 Elmont Rd. Elmont,NY 11003 Phone: (917) 749-7613 4 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
NOW CELEBRATING 25 26YEARS YEARS OF VITAL SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY!
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 5
PUBLISHER’S VIBE FIND YOURSELF! LESSONS IN SELF – AWARENESS PART (2) reputation. During that phase of my early teens and twenties the havoc I created, was later to become a teaching moment and a rallying point for my psychological, emotional and spiritual health.
Clive Williams, CEO/ Publisher _________________________
S
o, why am I encouraging you on a path to self – awareness, how does that help you to be healthy, wealthy and happy? How does that help you to improve your relationships socially and professionally? As a matter of fact, what does pursuing some abstract concept have to do with your life? If you’ve survived this long, without even knowing what self – awareness is, how are you going to benefit now? In other words, what’s in it for you? Those are all fair and rational questions, if you are pondering them seriously, then maybe the state of self – awareness is somewhere in your future and at such time that you discover it, your life will change dramatically. Your health will improve – your wealth will increase and your happiness will abound. If you doubt my claim, or better still my promise – I have a story for you. My early life was peppered with drama; driving accident after driving accident, interpersonal confrontations, a flagrant disregard for norms much like todays youths, I saw no need to conform to society’s norms or mores. The consequences of my attitudes and behavior created extensive property damage, personal financial loss with emotional pain and distress all the while establishing a tough guy the 6 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
When your consciousness is able to assess the damage you’ve done, it evokes a detached objectivity which helps you to contemplate your life and your purpose. I am one of the lucky ones, I survived but I still had to find myself. I would very often ask myself; why am I experiencing so many life threatening situations, so many confrontations and conflicts?
process is this: “finding one’s self is a process and like any other process, it requires information and a rational desire to learn new ideas, incorporate new thoughts, while constantly sharpening the mind, very much like the wood cutter who, constantly and repeatedly, sharpens his ax in order to achieve his daily productions of logs, quickly and efficiently.” *
Developing self-awareness is mandatory in navigating today’s chaotic world with all its conflicts, distortions and distractions. Selfawareness also requires that you dispose of your cynicism and apathy toward your existence. Since you need a reminder, let me remind you So as most people often do, I went to church. who you really are. You are a microcosm of the This new environment provided a respite universe. Every aspect of the larger universe is from my world, but I soon discovered that duplicated in your being – understanding that drama, confrontations and conflicts exits even fact, gives you clarity and assurance of your in the church. That new and surprising reality Divinity. forced me to find answers, and in looking for answers the Divine mind directed me to myself. Your journey to self-awareness means Whatever you seek is within. abandoning old ideas, old thoughts and attitudes in order to learn new ideas and new thoughts. When you become aware of yourself and The process of incorporating new ideas and new assume the responsibility and accountability thinking promotes the concept of change, which for self, it is only then that you find yourself. remains the only constant in life. In his research, No church, no organization, no fraternity, nor on the origin of Species, Charles Darwin offered university can help you find yourself. It is only this observation,” It’s not the strongest of the when you discover the simple act of developing species that survives, nor the most intelligent a relationship with yourself, of observing and that survives, it’s the one that’s most adaptable to communicating with yourself, (Self-talk), change that survives.” of understanding your own personality and individuality, only then that you find yourself. Is it your intention to survive, stay alive and One of life’s simple ironies is – our instinctive thrive? Then, incorporate change in your life. Step impulse to examine the behavior of others yet, out of your comfort zone. Take the necessary we neglect personal self-examination and self- steps to self-awareness. I promise you a much inspection. a better life will be in store for you. But first remember to continue the search to find self! It is critical that I introduce the word process at this point of my conversation with you. “Process ‘Cause that’s WhereItzAt! is a series of action or steps taken to achieve a particular goal or end.” Therefore in order to develop your process you must move from being ASLEEP to being AWAKE. My philosophy on
FEAR! INSECURITY! UNCERTAINTY! CONFUSION! IMMIGRATION AGENTS DISCOVER NEW FREEDOM TO DEPORT IMMIGRANTS! IMMIGRATION RAIDS ALSO TARGET NON-CRIMINALS! NEW DEPORTATION RULES ALLOW FAR MORE EXPULSIONS! WHERE DO YOU GO? WHAT DO YOU DO? WHO WILL DEFEND YOU AGAINST DEPORTATION? WHO WILL INSURE THAT YOU ESTABLISH LEGAL STATUS? WHO WILL PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS? As a private practice attorney, Mark Crawford Esq., has 18 years of experience in Immigration Law to include deportation and removal proceedings inclusive of post-conviction relief applications, waiver applications, naturalization and appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals and the Federal Circuit Courts.
DON’T PANIC! DON’T DESPAIR! THE CRAWFORD LAW FIRM HAS THE EXPERIENCE, THE UNDERSTANDING AND THE KNOWLEDGE TO PROTECT YOUR FREEDOMS. 18 YEARS OF SOLID RESULTS IN ALL MATTERS PERTAINING TO IMMIGRATION & CRIMINAL LAW.
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Mark Crawford, Esq. PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 7
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
By Stacey Berry Photo by @photosbyphab from nappy.co
S
times to get an in-person meeting. Following up with others will make them feel like you value them as a person but it also shows that you appreciate their support. It will make you stand out as someone who has strong level persistence, commitment and diligence.
triving for greatness in all that you do as 2. Always Deliver:
an entrepreneur is a key pillar for success. When you do something over and over, good or bad, especially for a long time, it becomes a habit. In a competitive world, where many people have similar types of businesses, it is difficult to stand out from the crowd. As the legendary author, orator, and educator, Booker T. Washington stated, “excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.” Everyone has a special uniqueness within their DNA but some people struggle to let their greatness shine. To ignite your greatness as an entrepreneur, there are a few habits you need to cultivate. Depending on the nature of your business, personality and circumstance, you need to develop a system that works best for you. Here are a list of 4 habits for #stellar entrepreneurs:
In business it is better to under promise and over deliver. I received this advice when I worked in private and public sectors. When you fail to deliver on your promises, people will not take you seriously or worse you will have a reputation of being incompetent. Another major disadvantage of making promises that are hard to keep, is that it puts unnecessary pressure on yourself to do what is not feasible or realistic. It may also lead you to cut corners, make mistakes just to fulfill a promise, as a result you deliver a poor-quality product or service. To avoid disappointing your clients, it is wiser to set realistic expectations that you are confident you are able to fulfill. In doing so, you give yourself a chance to over deliver and exceed your clients’ expectations.
1. Follow up:
3. Consistency:
It is very important to follow up with your clients. Keep them updated with what is happening with your company. This is a great way to keep them engaged. Let your clients know that you care about them by finding out how they are doing. This shows that you are also concerned with their well-being not just making a profit out of them. This is a habit that will help you to build a long-term relationship with your clients outside of “just” business. If you are trying to get a business meeting with a high profile executive, you will have to follow up more than once to get a response. It took me two months to get a response from a high-profile journalist. I had to practice polite persistence by following up several
If you are known for delivering a high quality product or service, you must be consistent or you will destroy the reputation of your company. Being inconsistent puts you at risk of losing clients and prevents you from gaining new clients. One bad experience negatively impacts your company’s reputation and growth potential. It takes years to build a great company and a second to destroy it. Bad news spreads fast and it is hard to re-build a damaged reputation. Do not make commitments you cannot fulfill. You set yourself up for failure and you will appear inconsistent. Be consistent in how you promote your business. Keep it in the front of people’s mind so that they do not forget what you do.
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Be careful not to bombard them daily by constantly promoting your company. Reveal a little at a time and leave your clients wanting more. Whether it is your annual event, monthly newsletter, level of service, customer service, or quality of product. Your clients expect consistency. Do your best to not short change them by being mediocre. Your company’s reputation depends on it! 4. Prioritize Tasks: It is very easy to feel like there are not enough hours in the day. In business there is so much to get done and at times, feels overwhelming. If you prioritize your tasks by doing what is most important first, you will do a better job at meeting deadlines. This can be done by making a daily to-do list. Make a list of 3 to 5 things you want to get done on a daily basis. List each task according to the most urgent or time sensitive. Include a note about the consequences for not completing each task. If a daily list is too tedious, create a weekly or monthly to do list. Give yourself a personal deadline that is earlier than the actual deadline, which will improve your ability to work under pressure. Personal deadlines gives you an opportunity to review or re-do certain tasks and avoid mistakes or oversights. Entrepreneurs have to be resilient and prepared for anything that comes along. When you are able to set clear priorities and meet deadlines, your level of performance will increase. These 4 habits of #stellar entrepreneurs will make your business memorable, meaningful and grow your client base. Your habits shape your reputation as an entrepreneur. When you cultivate great habits you will build a great brand. As a result, your business will stand the test of time and thrive. You will place yourself in the game of business to be successful against all odds!
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 9
The Culinary Enthusiast
FOOD & CULTURE
By Monique C.
I’m in too deep, there is no turning back now... - Akeem Murray It was all a dream until Chef Akeem Murray made it his reality. In 2012 Mise En Place Catering was established making it his first solidified business endeavour since migrating from the warm caribbean climate of Portmore St.Catherines Jamaica, West Indies. Chef Akeem received his culinary education from Star Career Academy in Long Island New York. While there he enhanced his love of spices and plating techniques, garnering him a creative eye and a expanded palate that helps him to create dishes that are currently trending in today’s kitchens.
Claim to Fame...
“It’s all in the Sauce” says Chef Akeem who is now developing a line of Jerk Spiced Sauces.“ I’m here to tantalize taste buds and leave my mark on the culinary world.” By combining my style of cooking A “Twist Of Tradition “ with classic culinary methods. Future plans of the young chef are to open a gourmet style fast food eatery along with a five star catering hall.
Adding to his already extensive culinary repertoire, Chef Akeem has created health conscious menus that has assisted celebrities, professional athletes, business executives, and thousands of others to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. He works closely with top nutritionists, doctors, dieticians, and trainers to develop nutritionally balanced diet meals that get consistent results.
Mise En Place Everything In It’s Place... The Catering Company is equipped to accommodate all types of events and functions. Chef Akeem and his staff have been providing full service catering experiences to customers throughout the NY Metropolitan area for over 12 years. Events come in all shapes and sizes, indoors and out, formal and informal; we can accommodate them all.
I Didn’t Work This Hard to be the Same…
- Akeem Murray
Contact Info: Telephone: (914) 426-0831 Email: miseen.place@yahoo.com Website: miseenplacenyc.com - Instagram: instagram.com/mise.en.place.catering 10 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
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CLIVE WILLIAMS
Let me begin by borrowing from
a poem I wrote almost four decades ago titled, Man-kind? The first two verses reads, “Angry fearsome visages grunting, sighing! Mumbling curses, a hate, a deep searing hate etched on the brow. An evil eye, a cruel mouth, fear, distrust, and malice - frustration beyond repair and ivory towered rhetoric fuels the flame. The rhythm of the death dance quickens, some faces contorted with glee others with pain. Bodies in the heat of passion and uncaring, unfeeling grinding in the excesses of frustration, spell bound, we watch and our minds merge with the players of this gross spectacle and we become one. Throats constricted with lifelong bitterness howl! Bellies denied of fullness roar as we are caught in a vortex of despair.” Clive Williams. This dark, brooding and scathing poetic verse was written in response to witnessing man’s inhumanity to his fellow man, in pursuit of political power; while writing this poem, I felt the weight of my people’s burden as they were forced to endure a political system that
12 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
gave rise to a polarizing tribalism, resulting in the establishment of garrisons and a tribal/ political culture that created the reign of terror Jamaican’s now endure. To think then, that those verses would prove to be prophetic, would have been wishful thinking, but, lo and behold, my thoughts written over forty years ago, from a Jamaican perspective, eloquently describes the America we live in today. Because I want to convey the relevance of my poetry, both to the American reality as well as our own individual destiny, I ask that you focus your attention on some choice words from that dark poetic rendering. The words are FEAR, MALICE, DISTRUST and HATE. The most recent flash point for the manifestation of those emotions was Charlottesville, Virginia where it was demonstrated that man’s evolution is being arrested by a growing class of sociologically detached, (some deranged), individuals desperately hanging on to a twisted view of the world. White Nationalists consisting of Klansmen, Neo-Nazi’s and Skin Heads who constitute the worst assortment of America’s
EDITOR’S DESK
past and present are preparing for war, and they are convinced they now have an ally in the people’s house. Very recently a former Neo- Nazi, Christian Picciolini, founder of the non-profit peace advocacy organization, Life after Hate, shared on National Public Radio that white nationalists of all stripes have infiltrated the mainstream successfully as law enforcement officers, teachers, politicians, as well as the professions. Since the message of white power is alive and thriving in America; Picciolini suggests that we confront this hate with compassion, understanding and empathy, he writes, “Hatred is born of ignorance. Fear is its father and isolation is its mother.” How do we overcome FEAR, MALICE, DISTRUST and HATE? I know of no other way, but to respond with understanding, compassion, empathy - and a love that surpasses all understanding, but we must first learn to love ourselves. Until then we are caught in a “vortex of despair.”
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WhereItzAt Pix Photo Credit: Corey Munroe
ANYTHING GOES LIVE! 2017
16 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
WhereItzAt Pix
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 17
ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE
DJ Gringo Hits You With Music By Christopher Williams
A
sk anyone and they will tell you that a party isn’t really a party without the DJ. I remember the first time I heard DJ Gringo play over 20 years ago at a college party and the student union was on fire with energy as people danced, grinding to the dancehall rhythms that pulsated through the loud sound system speakers. It was so good that even when the lights were turned on, people wouldn’t leave. Fast forward to the present time and DJ Gringo is still feeding the souls of his followers with music guaranteed to make you dance, make you happy and cause you to forget about your troubles. I recently sat down with DJ Gringo to talk about his journey as DJ and what’s next.
reggae, soca and afrobeats all in one. WhereItzAt: If you had to name one artist or one song that impacted you the most as a DJ, who or what, would that be? DJ Gringo: I would have to say, surprisingly, Eric B. and Rakim “I know you got soul”. As a youth I would scratch and cut that record for hours and hours every day for many days. WhereItzAt: How long have you been playing music?
DJ Gringo: Since I was 6 lol...Not to disclose my age but pretty much more than three decades... But actually on a professional level over 25 years. Lately, I have also begun producing and WhereItzAt: What made you decide to become I currently have three songs in production with a DJ? some very well-known reggae artists. I will share the details with your readers at a later date. DJ Gringo: Well I guess the fact that my father used to DJ kinda influenced that…He would WhereItzAt: What was your most exciting DJ parties and I would go with him and help experience as a DJ? set up the equipment and spin records. I can remember as far back as 7 years old doing that. DJ Gringo: Up to this day I would have to I don’t know but it makes me high when I am say my most exciting experience as a DJ was spinning songs and creating a vibe that makes the year I was the DJ for Rebel Salute.... That Was 2005 in Port Kaiser Sports Complex in St. people want to dance Elizabeth Jamaica ... I was the only DJ the whole WhereItzAt: How did you come up with the night before and after the artists performances name Gringo and why? in front of what may have been over 30,000 people...I will never forget that day...we set that DJ Gringo: No specific reason or story behind place on fire that night...Want to thank Tony it... Just a silly name that stuck as a youngster Rebel again...bless up. WhereItzAt: What type or genre of music are WhereItzAt: Where do you currently DJ? you best known for? DJ Gringo: Currently I DJ every Sunday night DJ Gringo: Well, I would say that most people at a spot named Bar 13 in Union Square, New know me for Reggae and/or Dancehall or York on 13th street, every Tuesday night at a Reggae/Dancehall or whatever people choose to spot in Williamsburg Brooklyn called Kinfolk, call it nowadays but I am sure you get my drift. every Thursday night at a spot called Bleachers Some would call me a roots and culture DJ or on Flatbush in Park Slope, like two blocks down some would know me for spinning dancehall, from Barclays center and I DJ every Saturday at 18 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
Solomon & Kuff in Harlem, as well as a lot of one offs/guest DJ appearances on other nights. You can also hear me play every Sunday from 1pm – 7pm EST on Sirius XM Radio on The Joint SXM42. WhereItzAt: How you would describe the experience of DJing on the radio versus DJing in a nightclub or at a concert? DJ Gringo: It’s two totally different experiences. I would say. One is more of a staged experience, in a sense where when being in a club or a concert
ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE I personally as a deejay am directly influenced by the people I see in front of me responding to each song I select. It’s a situation where I can’t go in with a plan like I could doing a radio show. Any particular night at a live performance can go anyway.
Music is life, which consists of a variety or should I say a library of feelings. There is different music for different feelings. Music has been an intricate part of my life for as long as I can remember knowing life WhereItzAt: Who itself. I would say are some the artists with the majority you have had the of the memories chance to meet and I have there are interview? songs associated with each of DJ Gringo: Marcia them. Even if it Griffiths, Vybz wasn’t a full song Kartel, Romain there would even Virgo and Tony be notes or a Rebel. verse. Music has WhereItzAt: Name consumed most 3 things that people of my time from would never guess the time I knew about you? time. I would always sing songs in class, or my mind would be on a song in my head instead DJ Gringo: 1) Lol, lemme see, well I graduated of what the teacher is saying. I can’t remember from SUNY Farmingdale’s nursing program. much of my life without music so I would have 2) I’ve recently stumbled upon acting and I to say without music I wouldn’t have much of a am currently acting in two separate YouTube life. I believe there are those that see the power web series one named “Sons of Kingston” and in music and use it to influence people with messages in the music. I believe they purposely another names “Blue City”. promote songs to control the people. 3) I have intentions of establishing a life and future in Africa. I am working on it now. WhereItzAt: Have you had the chance to travel Traveling back and forth, I had some of my to different cities and countries to DJ and if so, children in school down there as well. Just where? basically in the process of figuring it all out. DJ Gringo: Yes. I have traveled and played in WhereItzAt: There’s a line from a Bob Marley San Diego, Seattle, Houston, Miami, Orlando, song that says “One good thing about music, Atlanta, Trinidad, Jamaica, France and Ethiopia. when it hits you, you feel no pain”, describe WhereItzAt: What are your 5 greatest hits of how music makes you feel? all time? DJ Gringo: Wow, well music…Oh boy music.
DJ Gringo: Little More Time Beres Hammond/ Buju Banton Scenario Tribe Called Quest, featuring Leaders of The New School On and On Erykah Baddhu and a slew of songs from Burning Spear, Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley and Prince. Finish this sentence. “A world without music… is a world without living.
For more information log on to www.djgringo.com and follow on social media: Instagram: DJGringoNYC Twitter: DJGringoNYC
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 19
ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE
Dy Dy – This is Not A Game
By Christopher Williams
M
eet New York-based Jamaican singer Dyrana. Dyrana, also known as Dy Dy, may already be familiar to you from her comical videos that have made the rounds via social media. Since launching her videos, where she touches on a number of issues, Dy Dy recently transitioned to music and has picked up steam as a recording artist. WhereItzAt was first introduced to Dy Dy by DJ Norie and Chelsea Grant after her performance at DJ Norie’s Anything Goes Live Concert Series. I recently watched her performance and can attest to her talent and strength as an artist. She is a star in the making and her debut single “2 Can” is already generating quite a buzz. Dy Dy sat with us recently and we got the opportunity to learn more about this rising star.
DyDy: Passionate about my craft, humble and perform with and would do it even if it was free? loyal to my fans and supporters. DyDy: Lauren hill, Tanya Stephens, Lady Saw. WhereItzAt: If you had to name three artists or individuals that influenced you the most in your WhereItzAt: Do you believe it is your life or inspired you to follow your dreams, who responsibility as an artist to be a role model for others or should artists just be themselves? would they be? DyDy: Lauren hill, Lady Saw and Tanya Stephenson WhereItzAt: Do you have a plan for where you want this journey to take you? Is acting or modeling in the future for DyDy? DyDy: Yes, modeling and acting is definitely in my future. I love working and staying busy. I wanna do it all.
WhereItzAt: People who have been following you have watched your entertaining and enlightening videos on love, relationships, sex, etc. and you built quite a following. What was it that motivated you to make those videos?
WhereItzAt: I personally hate being put in a box, but if you had to describe your music, what genre would you say it falls under?
WhereItzAt: You are clearly a creative person and could have chosen to do anything else, so why become a recording artist?
DyDy: Excited, happy and nervous.
DyDy: My music falls under Reggae/ DyDy: I needed to build a fan base for music pop. because when i reached out to people for help WhereItzAt: What were you feeling they didn’t take me seriously they saw a pretty the first time you took to the stage to face and sex. So I decided to do it my way. perform?
DyDy: Music is my passion my first love and that’s the only thing I wanted to do.
WhereItzAt: Do you write all your music? How important is it for you to be a part of the creative process?
DyDy: No I don’t write all of my music. But it’s WhereItzAt: When watching your videos, there definitely important for me to be a part of the is so much passion there, especially when you hit creative process, because it’s my brand that I’m the camera with your hand (Lol). How much of building and have to maintain. what viewers see on those videos is Dyrana? WhereItzAt: What do you like to do in your DyDy: Lol I think like 5 percent they don’t quiet time? know Dyrana they know DyDy cause DyDy is DyDy: I read books, listen to music, eat, sleep a character I built just for my videos. and mind my business. WhereItzAt: How would you describe yourself WhereItzAt: Name 3 people you would love to as an artist? 20 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
DyDy: Yes it’s a responsibility, but artists should still remain true to themselves. WhereItzAt: We are in an age where women are breaking more barriers and kicking down more doors. Do you have any special message for the women who follow you or for young girls in general? DyDy: Just be yourself, love you and love what you do.
ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE
So Good - Keishera James is the Star We’ve Been Waiting For
By Jo Wheeler
W
ith a voice described as ‘Anita Baker Meets Sade’, singer/songwriter Keishera James exudes pure sexy, soulfulness. Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Keishera’s sound perfectly fuses the heartbeat of her Jamaican heritage with a heavy R&B influence. The epitome of Reggae-Soul, her raspy alto voice seductively delivers lyrics that tug at your emotions while Neo-Soul blended Rock-Steady melodies, seamlessly will your body to groove. A natural beauty, Keishera began her professional career as a teen model, appearing in major U.S. publications Essence and Heart & Soul Magazine, as well as ads for Iman Cosmetics. However, in the midst of a successful modeling career, Keishera remained steadfast to her true calling - music, and began pursuing her dream
after several chance meetings with influential icons singer Patti Labelle, co-founder of Atlantic Records Ahmet Ertegun, and poet/activist Maya Angelou - who each encouraged her to focus on her gifts and follow her passion. Those serendipitous encounters lead Keishera to explore her musical boundaries full-time, writing and recording in the U.S., Europe and Jamaica. She has been blessed to work with notable Jamaican music makers Paul Henton, Barry O’Hare, Syl Gordon, Christopher Birch – who co-wrote her hit anti-domestic violence anthem “Cry No More”, and De Krew Productions - who put the finishing touches on her first full length EP “Body Language” (2013) featuring the catchy single “Rock Star”. Most recently she has worked with German producer Smoli (DJ Zafer Smoliface).
After forming her own band, another of Keishera’s blessings came from the stage, as she has been called to perform at popular music festivals Reggae Jam, Berlin’s Festival of Hope, the Friesland Reggae Open Air, and Fete de La Musique. Some of Keishera’s songs that have gained radio play in Jamaica and Europe include her first single “I Want You”, “Pull Over”, her acoustic tune “So Good”, “Rock Star”, “Body Language”, “Sorry” and “Feels Right” featuring International Reggae Superstar Shaggy produced by Shane Brown. Keishera currently lives between Berlin, Germany, and New York City, and regularly performs at venues across both countries. Set to release her second EP “It’s Me, Keishera” on September 22, 2017, Keishera will embarking on her first solo international tour. With her vibrant stage presence and relatable audience appeal that always leaves crowds begging for more, Keishera is most definitely a megastar in the making. For more on Keishera visit www.facebook. com/keisheraj & www.soundcloud.com. com/keishera, Keishera’s single Rock Star on YouTube: http://youtu.be/Ik3-voy0rsk Booking & Management: Keishera Music BMI Publishing Tel: 1(646) 617-9100 Mail: keisheraj@gmail.com http://www.facebook.com/keisheraj
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NATURE
Aftermath of Hurricaine Harvey...Tempest
Emancipation Park in the Heart of New Kingston, Jamaica...Serenity
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FOOD & CULTURE
The Reggae Chefs:
Helping Future Teachers to be More Culturally Aware “As a Teacher, what would you do if you saw College School of Education, “Mr. Ivey seamlessly a student drinking an alcoholic beverage on school property?” That was the scenario Peter Ivey used to begin his presentation at the two day We Are GREAT (Gentlemen Ready to Educate, Advocate, and Transform) Summer Symposium at the Brooklyn College School of Education which commenced on August 16, 2017. A prospective Teacher who volunteered to solve the problem said he would contact social services because the student possibly has issues at home. Ivey then revealed that this scenario actually took place when he first migrated from Jamaica to the United States of America 17 years ago. According to Ivey, “While, the teachers and school security guard were irate by what I thought was an innocent action, I was fortunate that the Dean who intervened used her cultural competence to handle the situation. She knew that the beverage was popular among Jamaican men and I would have already graduated High School back home. So instead of suspension or expulsion, she informed me of the rules and policies of the school as well as the USA’s drinking age and alcohol laws.” This potent example set the tone for Ivey’s informative presentation dubbed ‘The Role of Culture in Molding Minds’. Peter Ivey, the CEO and Founder of The Reggae Chefs and the Scattered Jamaica Project which consists of a Video Series and a Passport Dinner Series was invited to be the Keynote Speaker due to his various projects geared at cultural preservation. According to Dr. Trina Lynn Yearwood, Director of the Teacher Opportunity Corps Program - Brooklyn 24 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
amalgamated his educational experiences and love for culture to create an insightful, thought-provoking and interactive presentation for pre-service classroom teachers. By sharing intimate stories about the educators who influenced his own life and activating audience participation, he demonstrated the impact of cultural competence on student success. All
Keynote Speaker - Peter Ivey (blue suit front row) with participants and Coordinator of the We Are GREAT Summer Symposium
participants expressed amazement at this ‘untrained educator’s’ ability to impart pearls of wisdom that they could apply in the classroom.” One of the many Teacher Candidates that Ivey’s Keynote Address resonated with was Shamonique Jefferson. She said, “I connected with The Reggae Chefs’ presentation. I’ve personally had experiences where I was misunderstood because the teachers didn’t really care about the background of the students. I related to his story a lot.”
The symposium is funded by the New York State Education Department and was designed to help prospective teachers understand some of the professional responsibilities of teaching as well as their role in education as community builders. Ms. Doris Waiters, the Teacher Opportunity Corps II Program Director in the NYS Education Department said, “Mr. Ivey’s presentation was excellent! We need more activities like this because the more we can come out of the traditional boxes then the better prepared teachers will be to deal with different types of students as well as learn how to better embrace their cultures.” “It was an honor to address the Teacher Candidates at the Symposium. While the Scattered Jamaica project allows me to travel the world in search of cultural similarities and differences between Jamaica and the selected destinations, it was important for me to relay to the participants that cultural awareness can be attained not only by travelling the world but also by going out into the community. A train ride to Canal Street, Flatbush or Bensonhurst is like going to China, Haiti or Italy so the tools to enhance cultural competency are right here for us to use.” Peter Ivey and the rest of The Reggae Chef team can be seen in action at Scattered Jamaica: Panama as they creatively explore the rich cultures of Jamaica and Panama through food and the arts on Saturday, August 19th at the Golden Hall at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church (331 Hawthorne Street, Brooklyn, New York) from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Visit https://tinyurl.com/yd3byb62 for more details.
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REFLECTIONS
JAMAICA – GOOD NEWS! BAD NEWS!
By Clive Williams
T
he very same day I was attending a spectacular wedding ceremony in Jamaica, the police high command was publicizing the results of crime data compiled on murders between August 5 and August 26, 2017. Because I pay particular attention to the news, (as a journalist), this development was particularly ironic - even as one celebrates in Jamaica, there’s a parallel universe like no other, in which terror, destruction and devastation is wrought on otherwise law-abiding Jamaicans. But isn’t this how life happens? Aren’t we supposed to accept the good with the bad? Even so, Jamaica has become such a land of extremes, where good is mistaken for bad and bad is mistaken for good. The wedding service was held at the location where I offered my first confessions as a young Catholic boy at age seven, when we were routinely marched to mass from St. Aloysius Boys School at Duke Street to the impressive Holy Trinity Cathedral on North Street. The
memories came flooding back as I stood at the intersection of Lissant Road and North Street contemplating the amazing history surrounding me and for a brief moment I felt overwhelmed. That remote spot on which I stood was a huge lot of land, naked of architecture, but abundant with debris, a stark reminder of the contradiction that is post – modern Jamaica. Here I was standing at the intersection of unquestionably three of the most iconic institutions in Jamaica, (possibly the world), given the talent they have bestowed to the world - Kingston College (KC) to my right, St. Georges College to my left, as I stood directly across from Holy Trinity Cathedral. In retrospect, I now understand why three homies on bikes began to circle me, clearly out of curiosity, but also out of disbelief; when I engaged one of them in conversation regarding my memories, a meaningful and friendly dialogue ensued. Decked out in a light weight, brown three piece brown suit with red tie and accompanying accessories, my homies must
have assumed I was either mad or bad, which is exactly what I hoped they’d think. During my ride to the reception we drove through Fletchers Land to avoid the inevitable Sabina Park traffic on Elliston Road as more memories flooded my thoughts, memories of the times I had walked those streets without fear or apprehension. But the afternoon news featuring the police report, reminded me that in the previous 20 days, 114 people had already been murdered in Jamaica; this quickly quenched any bravado, or sense of security that I was tempted to assume. Once I got to Terra Nova, the world changed, the festive mood of the wedding feast dispelled my growing discontent with a social order of a Jamaica on the brink of madness; any society that murders one of its own every seven minutes is not only in a state of terror, but is also at war with itself. With that thought, it occurred to me how traumatized the Jamaican psyche has become, so desensitized that for many, another murder is merely a statistic. The words of Jamaica’s opposition leader echoed my worst fears; Dr. Peter Phillips said, “a mood of hopelessness is gripping the nation, as marauding gangsters take control of our streets and communities. Nobody is safe.” What Dr. Phillips failed to say or, refused to say, was that Terrorists have taken over Jamaica and have hijacked the Jamaican way of life as we once knew it. My problem is – I cannot look away. Who looks away when 100 Jamaicans are murdered every thirty days? If you don’t see the crisis in Jamaica, then you’re not looking. Somehow Robert Nesta Marley’s prophetic words in the anthem War is lost on Jamaicans, who all seem to continues on page 30...
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REFLECTIONS continued from page 28...
you on one condition,( that I refer you), it’s in the heart of New Kingston, close to everything you need, the environment is not only pristine, but unusually beautiful and comfortable, a place you’ll never regret or forget. Call me when you need to know where to go.
think it was meant only for South Africa or the USA, whose discriminatory policies dominated so much of our attention. “Until the philosophy that holds one race superior and another inferior is finally and permanently discredited and abandoned – everywhere is WAR – me say WAR! That until there is no longer first class and second class citizen of ANY nation – until the color of a man’s skin is of no more significance than the color of his eyes – me say WAR, that until the basic human rights are equally guaranteed to all – without regard to race –dis a WAR.”
My thoughts for this piece came together as I rode around with my driver Chris, who gave me a realistic perspective of today’s Jamaica, from the get rich quick mentality, to the complete disregard for life in any form – this is a tiny nation that disproportionately produces many of the world’s greatest athletes, scholars, entertainers and professionals while accommodating too many of its own home grown terrorists who are dedicated to the destruction of its social and political order. Dr. Phillips didn’t call them terrorists because then he would openly admit that the dark underbelly of most criminal activity in Jamaica is associated too often with tribal political activity for territorial control and domination. I will explore more of the Jamaican paradox in the October issue of Whereitzat: how and why is it that an ultra-religious nation is so concerned with the elimination of homosexuals, (their children) yet turn a blind eye to an ever increasing escalation in corruption, rape and murder?
The happiness and joy of my newly married friends was my sinsemilla, their event provided the altered consciousness I needed to match this alternate universe of Jamaica, so I temporarily suspended mourning for my nation and celebrated life with my friends, and as long as the celebration lasted my pain subsided. Terra Nova has retained much of its old charm and legendary sense of sophistication, as it struggles to accommodate a new clientele of Jamaica’s nouveau riche, bridging the gap between then and now. The wedding reception was a blast and those who stayed for the after party enjoyed the Mayweather/McGregor fight; in the words of the Four Seasons, “Oh what a night!” Sunday was another party, compliments of the bride and groom, (Patrick and Joan), in the hills where uptown met downtown and the vibe was so real you could touch it. God bless your union my friends. I didn’t do a hotel this time around because a friend arranged my stay at an exclusive bed and breakfast in New Kingston. I have received permission to share the location with
30 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
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Mix Up & Blen Blen
ENTERTAINMENT
By Monique C.
picture during the evening hours of the festival was nearly impossible. “There should have been a spotlight aimed at the stage to provide photographers that glamor shot”, they said. Fencing in fans also became a problem, those who paid for general admission freely slipped through the gates set up by Paramount Events Inc. into the VIP section and enjoyed the “Very Important People” treatment.
“Suzan Peart do you and your team feel the pressure of being the first event organizers to blend Dancehall & Hip Hop on a music festival platform of massive proportion in Roy Wilkins Park? Your lineup is filled with A-List stars from the global music market, you have to be feeling a bit nervous”, I asked at the ECIPS media reception on August 3, 2017. Susan calmly responded “This music festival is my heart, and I’m doing this for the community.” Everod Vernon of Arise Hospitality then added, “All the artists that are on this lineup are well qualified and fit to handle this music festival.” But was that the case on August 20, 2017 at the ECIPS Music Festival? Many fans expressed their discontent.
The musical festival finally started at 2:30pm with its larger than life MC/Host Marjorie. “Where’s Miss Kitty?”, festival goers asked out loud. ECIPS was actually scheduled to start at 11:00 am with its first musical performance being Tinga Stewart, but Genah - “Who’s that?” many wondered; started the show. Local artist Maddadan set an electric vibe with his song “Embrace.” People watched as the artist played the guitar behind his head strumming the crowd into a frenzy. The 90’s and early 2000’s Dancehall was well represented by Kiprich
The highlight of the ECIPS music festival came from songstress Donyale Renee who was forced to perform at the side of the stage surrounded by security. Many festival fans thought that was very strange, but they continued to look on as the ECIPS music festival started to unravel. Sources say that the security guards weren’t paid so in turn they blocked performers from Lady G and MegaBanton. . Teflon burned entering the stage. “Poor stage management”, the fire as the cleanest BOBO rasta to touch many screamed. Queen Ifrica the stage. Half Pint showed why he is a first- was allowed to perform. She came on stage to class act & not a substitute performer. I don’t settle the crowd with positive vibrations event recall PAPA Michigan having an engaging organizers hoped, but by this time - 7:45pm performance, but his fans could be heard singing fans had begun to chant Alkaline! Alkaline! along to his songs. Alkaline! It was clear who they were really there
The arrival of the beautiful Miss Fluffy Kitty It was hot and the sun was blazing that Sunday at 5:00pm revived the crowd who had been afternoon. The park started buzzing at 10am standing or sitting in the hot sun all day. Her when the gates opened up for the paying fans. presence added spice to the ECIPS music festival General admission tickets started at $75 dollars with her style, charisma and persona. Miss and for the VIP section it was $250 dollars Fluffy Kitty had fans believing that the festival per ticket. Paramount Events Inc. provided was really about to get started and it did with the stage, lighting and audio setup. Many Freddie Jackson. crooning his classic hits like media houses complained that capturing a “Rock Me Tonight” and “You Are My Lady.” 32 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
for. The “HeadLiners” Akon Alkaline Remy Ma , De La Ghetto and Elephant Man Miss Fluffy Kitty took to the stage one last time getting the crowd hyped with Alkaline’s hit song “After All”, then suddenly the stage went black. What happened? Where are the headliners that were highly promoted and publicized all over New York City? The ones that many media houses have been promoting all over social media for
ENTERTAINMENT weeks. ECIPS Music Festival organizers where are they? The fans responded with “The world may never know.” Was it all about the money Suzan Peart or truly for the love of Dancehall & Hip Hop music? Mix up & Blem Blem
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FOOD & CULTURE
The Reggae Chefs Team up with Major US Airline to Promote Heritage Preservation
T
of some of the delectable dishes sampled on our
Program – Community Service Award; Laura P.
Ivey continued, “We were also delighted to unveil Mission Food Possible which will assist in feeding the hungry in Jamaica and Panama on October 16th, World Food Day.”
Program (SYEP) and the Work, Learn and Grow Program at Medgar Evers College – Community Service Award; Andrew Clarke – Founder of Braata, Actor & Singer – Creative Arts Award and Irwine Clare O.D. - Founder of Team Jamaica Bickle and Radio Host – Community Service Award. A special award was also presented to 17 year old Carlos Morales, a young Panamanian who is ranked second in the USA by Princeton University as an Orator.
here was a sense of euphoria as The Reggae journey such as pescado relleno and arroz con coco.” James – Director of the Summer Youth Employment
Chefs’ (TRC) third Passport Dinner Series dubbed Scattered Jamaica: Panama landed its biggest audience to date. The 250 patrons attending the event witnessed firsthand through food, dance, music and decor the similarities and differences between the rich cultures of Jamaica and Panama. The event which was held on Saturday, August 19th at The Golden Hall, St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church in Brooklyn New York featured many enchanting elements including special giveaways from Delta Air Lines and entrées served to patrons upon their arrival by guest Panamanian Chef DJ Elias.
According to Scattered Jamaica Creator and The Reggae Chefs CEO, Peter Ivey, “The Jamaican and Panamanian flags floating in the air, the red, white and blue balloons and the Panamanian traditional clothing hung on the walls were just a few items used to set the ambience for our patrons to experience both countries’ cultures. We were able to creatively transport our patrons to Panama through the vivid descriptions of TRC’s visit to that country, our interactions with the locals and the recreation
Fully clad in their traditional wear, members of Balet Folklorico Nuestro Panama delivered a magnificent dance performance while the Braata Folk Singers had the audience singing along to their renditions of popular Jamaican folk songs. Panamanian Natty Cat treated the audience to Reggaeton while Jamaican artiste, Synga Splaash wooed them with Reggae. Delivering the Feature Address on “The Role of Events like Scattered Jamaica in Preserving and Celebrating our Heritage” was Dr. Waldaba Stewart, Director of the Caribbean Research Center at Medgar Evers College. Dr. Lewanza Harris, one of two winners of two first class tickets to Panama, said “Scattered Jamaica: Panama was a great way to experience the food, dance and culture of Panama in NY. I’m excited that I will have the personal experience by traveling to Panama courtesy of The Reggae Chefs and Delta.” Ivey said, “Delta’s gesture will go a far way in supporting our initiative geared at conserving Jamaica’s culture as well as that of our selected destinations. While hundreds of people have learnt about Jamaica and other countries through our various Dinner Series, it is always a great opportunity when one can visit a destination and become immersed in the culture. Honored at the event were Professor Louis McGrath Walker – Former Director of Brooklyn College SEEK
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Just one week prior to the event Peter Ivey received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for “Outstanding and Invaluable Service to the Community”. This award from the United States Congress highlights the importance of his work in heritage conservation through projects like Scattered Jamaica. Scattered Jamaica: Panama was made possible through the benevolence of Flatbush Caton Market, WhereItzAt Magazine, Team Jamaica Bickle and The League of International Chefs Association. Special thanks also to Delta for providing amazing prizes for the world culture enthusiasts.
Caribbean International Network (CIN) CH. 73, CH. 25 & FIOS CH. 26
Friday CH.73 • 11:00 PM Irie Vibes • 12:00 AM Entertainment Report • 12:30 AM Juss a Buss Saturday CH.73 • 11:00 PM CIN Hot Music Videos • 12:00 AM Irie Vibes
BROADCAST SCHEDULE Sunday CH.25 • 7:00 AM Cover Story (Jamaica News) • 7:30 AM Trinidad News In Review Sunday CH.73 • 11:30 AM Comedy Central • 12:00 PM Juss a Buss • 12:30 PM CIN Hot Music Videos • 1:00 PM Conversations in the Kitchen • 1:30 PM Island Eats
Sunday CH.73 • 5:30 PM Hill & Gully Ride • 6:00PM Island Eats • 6:30 PM Cover Story (Jamaica News) • 7:00PM Entertainment Report • 7:30PM Domino Effect • 11:00PM Domino Effect • 11:30PM Hill & Gully Ride
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