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- Recording Artist ORieL and his Band Detained by Police Ahead of Performance
Pittsburgh, PA (MPR Consulting) - An unfortunate familiar scene took place over Memorial weekend at the annual Kaya Fest in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania when reggae recording artist ORieL and his bandmate were detained by Pittsburgh PD for suspicion of Marijuana possession. The humble artist scheduled performance to an eager crowd was delayed after an officer reported smelling marijuana, and called for backup. Speaking on the incident, ORieL stated "We were briefly detained for smoking a spliff in the tour van. I asked the officer why he was drawing his firearm, because we were doing as he asked, our hands were up, and the spliff was put out. “Why use a cannon to kill a mosquito ?” Why not work out an amicable solution? His approach is the reason that many situations like this end up with people getting injured for no reason." The artist added "Music and herb go together, society knows this. The idea that cannabis makes you hostile, etc etc is an outdated concept in this modern society. Many a prison and policing budget depend on keeping the status quo. Thats one thing, but the bigger issue is the approach and how police deal with us on a day to day basis." With the utmost respect for the law, this hasn't dithered ORieL's respect for those who take the oath to protect and serve. "I support officers who are maintaining and providing protection to the people, not bullies with badges and guns. The motto of the police force is to protect and serve, and we need more officers who aim to uphold their pledge to society and not the ones intending to stroke their own egos by misusing and abusing their power. People don’t trust the police, and situations like this only perpetuate an already broken system. We need to find new ways of policing that can transform. You cannot continue to do the same things and expect different results, you cannot arrest or ticket your way out of prohibition. Musicians, painters, nurses, patients all sort of people perform the age old tradition of burning a spliff and that is never going to stop." Despite the delays, the vibes were in full effect and ORieL delivered a memorable performance to an audience of every race, creed and class who were all united by music. Wishing to move past the events of the night, ORieL lastly added "The police need to develop a more open mindset and approach unique situations with the same humility and respect that we show to them. Excessive use of power in these situations not only damages the relationship between the police and the community, but is a waste of resources. We need people power to move towards a more community-based method of policing. Way up." - ORieL Spearheaded by Linval 'Shem' Brown, Oriel 'ORieL' Barry and Michael Wilson, Afar Music Group comprised of acclaimed label and concert promotional company proudly stands by their 'Music Is The Mission'' motto . Afar Music Group is a division of the Afar Group Of Companies that includes Afar Clothing, Afar Marketing/Promotions and Afar Vision
- How fair is the term “Dead Beat Dad”? Find out next GIRLFRIENDZ – COCKTAILZ AND CONVERSATIONZ
Fathers’ Day is in June the next edition of Girlfriendz – Cocktailz and Conversations is dedicated to examining and celebrating fatherhood on June 5 at 100 (100 Hope Road) on the roof. Fathers’ Day is not usually greeted with the kind of fanfare and celebration of Mothers’ Day and one can argue that the lack luster approach to Fathers Day is indicative of how society treats fathers overall. It is clear that there are men who have not stepped up to the responsibility of fatherhood, and that there are many children growing up without this male figure in their lives. This staging’s panel discussion will be centered on the theme: How fair is the term “Dead Beat Dad”? According to Shelly-Ann “Dr Sexy-Ann” Weeks, Relationship Coach and creator of the event “Girlfriendz – Cocktailz & Conversationz takes pride is discussing topics that are usually considered taboo and this month is no different.” With the prevalence of single mother families, is it fair to think that most Jamaican men are just not interested in being a part of their children’s lives? Or are the mothers painting a grimmer picture than the reality actually represents? For example, fathers are expected to provide financially for their children. However, it seems as if that is the only role that is emphasized, so the children are kept from fathers who are unable to pay. Is that fair? Should fathers be kept from their children because of financial difficulties? The panel is made up of mostly men and this June 5th edition will feature Broadcaster Rodney Campbell, Actor Jerry Benzwick, Anthropologist and Fathers Inc President – Dr Herbert Gayle, Dancehall Artist Paul Gaynor of Twins of Twins, Marketer - Noran Price among others. In addition to the panel discussion, patrons can win amazing prizes as a part of the games and giveaways; Dr Sexy-Ann gives sex and relationship tips; live performances with music by New Star Entertainment. As usual, men are not only a part of the discussion panel, they are also invited to participate and enjoy. Panelist Nigel Staff Addresses the Audience Admission for entry is $1000 (Buy 3 tickets get 1 free – Presold only), $1500 at the door and fun starts at 6:30pm. Tickets are available at www.yardticket.com or call 798-0820 for more information. Girlfriendz – Cocktailz and Conversationz is sponsored by Rough Rider Condoms, Summer’s Eve, Lifestyle Condoms, Ponche Kuba Cream Liqueur, Kande’s Delights and Uber Access. “Fathers are important to the fiber of society but they don’t get enough credit when they step up, however the negatives are always highlighted and this approach is unbalanced. The fact is, many young fathers have not only stepped up, they have become very active in their children’s lives.” Dr Sexy-Ann Girlfriendz targets women but men are definitely invited to attend.
- Ms Universal Carnival Queen Show to take place in Tobago on 15th Oct. 2016
“Carnival Arts, as an art form and cultural activity, impacts on fashion, design and every area of the mainstream curriculum.” Pax Nindi, 2009 The Ms Universal Carnival Queen Show is scheduled to take place in Tobago on 15th Oct. 2016 as part of Carivog International production ‘Caribbean and World Creative Arts Expo’. We invite young ladies age 17yrs –30yrs, 5’6” and over in height, single or married to represent one of the Carnival Countries. We invite Band Leaders, fashion designers, schools, promoters, agencies, country’s national association and representatives to support these delegates to ensure that they make the best representation for their country. Categories Each delegate will participate in five (5) categories for which they will be judged : National Dress –must be either the official accepted national dress of the delegate’s country or an adaption thereof Carnival Scavenge Couture Carnival Costume Evening Gown—A gown reflective of the glitz and glamour of Carnival is preferred Interview The Ms Universal Carnival Queen Show is a culturally diverse event open to nationals of any country which celebrate any aspect of carnival arts. It offers the world a time to celebrate what makes us different. This event is a powerful tool that can highlight the unifying features of Carnivals of the World as delegates will bring to the foreground their Country’s Carnival, its rich history and the wonders their country holds as a travel destination. OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this show are to: Provide an international performance platform to celebrate all aspects of Carnival Arts To bring to the foreground the use of recycled materials Showcase the Diasporic Carnivals of the delegates Promote each Diasporic Carnival as event tourism Encourage innovative approaches to the art form in each category being judged To be a catalyst for creating awareness of a career in the arts. To provide a platform for creative Carnival costume builders to showcase their individual or queen costume on stage in a more formal setting. Ms Universal Carnival This event will be the Grand Finale of the Caribbean and World Creative Arts Expo (CAWCAE). It will be a combination of pageantry and prize giving awards ceremony for the various competitions held throughout Caribbean and World Creative Arts Expo. Carnival – Uniting the World! “Throughout the world, the genesis and development of Carnivals as live or street art are rooted in that community’s struggle to secure and legitimate its presence on the physical, cultural and political landscape of the society. Carnival, as both an art form and an event, has an ‘.... inherent capacity to appropriate places and transgress boundaries in order to manifest and celebrate aspects of human community’.” Ansel Wong 2009 Carnival unites people into one joyful idiom of hope for a better world. Today, carnival has fostered the concept of one global village. As people of the world meandered from their homelands to all parts of the globe creating world cities, we can celebrate this diversity through the festival of carnival. It is this cultural imperative – Uniting Creativity – that underpins this culturally diverse gathering of creative arts and beautiful people: Ms. Universal Carnival an event which will bring to the foreground the creative use of recycled materials in Carnival. The Carnival Costume: The costume must be portable, no larger than 8’ width and 12’ Height (height is inclusive of delegate height). An award will be e given for the Best Costume.
- Soulful Singer K'Coneil Reveals Debut EP Cover Art and Title
NY, NY - New York based recording artist K'Coneil is revealing the cover art and title of his debut "Love/Lust" EP. The anticipated project is a collection of brand new songs from the singer-songwriter, led by "Hot Like You" produced by renowned billboard producer Seanizzle. The hit single has steadily picked up traction on both local and international radio and on music video outlets with the recently released video. "The cover and title showcases the conflicting emotions within all of us as we interact in relationships. There is definitely a thin line between Love and Lust and this collection of songs really try to straddle the line. The results are really enamoring and exciting !!! These songs really embody my soul and state of mind at this time in my life." stated K'Coneil Stay tuned as K'Coneil announces the release date of his Genre fluid "Love/Lust" EP in the next few days.
- Drake, Rihanna and Beyoncé lead BET awards Nominations
Drake leads the list of nominees for the 2016 BET Awards with nine nods. Tying for second place are Beyoncé and Rihanna with five nominations, each. Bryson Tiller, Chris Brown and Future are each up for four awards. Drake is nominated twice for video of the year with "Hotline Bling" and "Work" with Rihanna. Other nominees for the top prize include Beyonce's "Formation," Kendrick Lamar's "Alright" and rising newcomer Bryson Tiller's "Don't." Rihanna and Beyoncé are both up for best female R&B/pop artist alongside Adele, Andra Day, and K. Michelle. The 2016 BET Awards will air live on June 26 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. This year celebrates 16 years of the BET ceremony where winners are chosen by BET's voting academy - a mixture of entertainment professionals and fans. The full list of nominations is below: Best Female R&B/Pop Artist ADELE ANDRA DAY BEYONCÉ K. MICHELLE RIHANNA Best Male R&B/Pop Artist BRYSON TILLER CHRIS BROWN JEREMIH THE WEEKND TYRESE Best Group 2 CHAINZ & LIL WAYNE DRAKE & FUTURE PUFF DADDY & THE FAMILY RAE SREMMURD THE INTERNET Best Collaboration BIG SEAN FT. CHRIS BROWN & TY DOLLA $IGN - PLAY NO GAMES BIG SEAN FT. KANYE WEST & JOHN LEGEND - ONE MAN CAN CHANGE THE WORLD FUTURE FT. DRAKE - WHERE YA AT NICKI MINAJ FT. BEYONCÉ - FEELING MYSELF RIHANNA FT. DRAKE - WORK Best Male Hip Hop Artist DRAKE FETTY WAP FUTURE J. COLE KANYE WEST KENDRICK LAMAR Best Female Hip Hop Artist DEJ LOAF LIL KIM MISSY ELLIOTT NICKI MINAJ REMY MA Video of the Year BEYONCÉ - FORMATION BRYSON TILLER - DON’T DRAKE - HOTLINE BLING KENDRICK LAMAR - ALRIGHT RIHANNA FT. DRAKE - WORK Video Director of the Year BENNY BOOM CHRIS BROWN COLIN TILLEY & THE LITTLE HOMIES DIRECTOR X HYPE WILLIAMS Best New Artist ALESSIA CARA ANDRA DAY BRYSON TILLER KEHLANI TORY LANEZ Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award ANTHONY BROWN & GROUP THERAPY ERICA CAMPBELL KIRK FRANKLIN LECRAE TAMELA MANN TASHA COBBS Best Actress GABRIELLE UNION KERRY WASHINGTON TARAJI P. HENSON TRACEE ELLIS ROSS VIOLA DAVIS Best Actor ANTHONY ANDERSON COURTNEY B. VANCE IDRIS ELBA MICHAEL B. JORDAN O’SHEA JACKSON JR. YoungStars Award AMANDLA STENBERG QUVENZHANÉ WALLIS SILENTÓ WILLOW SMITH YARA SHAHIDI Best Movie BEASTS OF NO NATION CONCUSSION CREED DOPE STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON Sportswoman of the Year CHEYENNE WOODS GABRIELLE DOUGLAS SERENA WILLIAMS SKYLAR DIGGINS VENUS WILLIAMS Sportsman of the Year CAM NEWTON KOBE BRYANT LEBRON JAMES ODELL BECKHAM JR. STEPHEN CURRY Coca-Cola Viewers’ Choice Award BEYONCÉ – FORMATION BRYSON TILLER – DON’T CHRIS BROWN – BACK TO SLEEP DRAKE – HOTLINE BLING FUTURE FT. DRAKE – WHERE YA AT RIHANNA FT. DRAKE – WORK Centric Award ANDRA DAY - RISE UP BEYONCÉ – FORMATION K. MICHELLE – NOT A LITTLE BIT RIHANNA - BBHMM THE INTERNET - UNDER CONTROL Best International Act Africa AKA (SOUTH AFRICA) BLACK COFFEE (SOUTH AFRICA) CASSPER NYOVEST (SOUTH AFRICA) DIAMOND PLATNUMZ (TANZANIA) MZVEE (Ghana) SERGE BEYNAUD (COTE D’IVOIRE) WIZKID (NIGERIA) YEMI ALADE (NIGERIA) Best International Act UK KANO KREPT & KONAN LIANNE LA HAVAS SKEPTA STORMZY TINIE TEMPAH
- St. Lucian documentary “Who Are You?” to be Featured at Houston Caribbean Film Festival
The Caribbean American Heritage Foundation of Texas (CAHFT), in collaboration with The Piton International Film Festival (PIFF) and The Chicago Caribbean Film Festival (CCFF) launches the First Annual Houston Caribbean Film Festival (HCFF), and feature Saint Lucia’s “Who Are You?” directed by Darnel Kendal John. The HCFF will take place on June 18-19, 2016 during National Caribbean American Heritage Month, which occurs annually in June. Films from Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Haiti, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago will be screened at this year’s two-day inaugural event in “Who Are You” details Saint Lucia’s enchanting cultural and natural heritage. It is the hopes “Who Are You” will stir viewers to not only appreciate the island and its traditions more, but that it would drive all St. Lucians to do what they can to preserve their natural and cultural heritage. According to Mr. John, the film will debunk some popular myths and many traditions will be highlighted and their roots explained. Issues such as public beach access, and the waning support to cultural art forms are all put under the lens for inspection. The movie is very popular in Saint Lucia and is in high demand The HCFF is dedicated to embracing and promoting the rich Caribbean culture through the eye of the director’s lens. The mission is to promote, support, increase and heighten interest and awareness of Caribbean films, filmmakers, screen writers, producers and directors in the Caribbean basin and the diaspora year-round, focusing particularly in June, National Caribbean American Heritage Month. The HCFF will provide opportunities for Houston’s diverse audience to not only screen films from Caribbean nations, but to also interact with the film makers, producers, writers and directors in a series of Meet-and-Greets and interviews in Houston. It is their hope that The Festival will foster greater understanding and support of Caribbean history, and make positive contributions to the Houston Art scene, while sharing the Caribbean’s distinctive charms and unique historical and modern. This year, the HCFF will comprise of four full length feature films and several short films. Two films scheduled to be screened have received critical acclaim and won film industry awards. The Jamaican film Diary of a Badman was the winner of the Best Narrative Feature award at the 2015 Jamaica Film Festival; and The Price of Memory was nominated in the category of Best Documentary Feature at the 2014 Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival. Other films will include: from Saint Lucia, Who Are You?; from Barbados, Soucouyant; and from Haiti, Father Joseph. The Piton International Film Festival (PIFF) and The Chicago Caribbean Film Festival (CCFF) provided valuable support in the creation of the Houston Caribbean Film Festival. Under their leadership and guidance, Houston can now be recognized as one of the few cities in the country to have a Caribbean Film Festival. Here is a synopsis of the two sister events occurring in 2016: The Piton International Film Festival (PIFF), is the brain child of the founder of Umoja Communications, Edmund Herman known to many as “Brother Umoja.” Brother Umoja was born on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia. Inspired by the words of the late Sir John Compton, who challenged Lucians overseas to help build their homeland into a better place, Brother Umoja has been building business relationships with the people of his homeland since 1998. With a love for his homeland and the belief that St. Lucia is more than capable of increasing the filmmaking opportunities on its shores, Brother Umoja created the Piton International Film Festival. The PIFF will be held in Saint Lucia from August 15, 2016 to August 21, 2016. The Chicago Caribbean Film Festival (CCFF) is sponsored by the Caribbean American Heritage Council of Illinois (CAHCIL) and the Oak Park Public Library. Founded in 2015, we work alongside the Piton International Film Festival (PIFF) (Saint Lucia); Houston Caribbean Film Festival (HCFF); and we sponsor a contest with the Bermuda International Film Festival (BIFF) to screen the winning short film. The Chicago Caribbean Film Festival (CCFF) will be held from June 05, 2016 to June 15, 2016 at the Oak Park Public Library (Main Library), 834 Lake Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60301, in the Veteran’s Room. There will be an additional location for the film festival that has yet to be determined with potentially additional screening The Houston Caribbean Film Festival will be held at The Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston (MATCH), with another location to be confirmed and announced in the very near future. For more information about the HCFF, their mission and a complete guide to the Festival’s films, visit their official website, (www.houstoncaribbeanfilmfestival.org).
- Tifa Named 'Artiste of the Month' by BBC Radio One
Following the annexation of her latest hit single ‘Big Bumper’ to the official playlist of BBC Radio One in Britain, Jamaican Dancehall star Tifa continues to experience an increase popularity in that space. Only weeks after the addition it was also announced that she was chosen as ‘Artiste of the Month’ for Flames Radio another U.K based radio outlet. The announcement came via their official Instagram page (@realflamesradio) which read, “We are proud to announce that since the 1st May 2016 until the end of May you will be hearing music from this lady @isthetifa every 2 hours on @realflamesrado “London’s No.1 Global Party Station.” A second post read, “Lyrically one of the baddest and most consistent female artiste from Jamaica stay locked for daily news on @itsthetifa and listen out for an interview at the end of the month #thechamp #bigbumper” Responding to the news a seemingly pleased Tifa said, “I am very happy, this caught me totally off guard, I know the song has been doing well in the U.K but to be chosen as ‘Artiste of the Month’ on a British radio station… I am very happy, honoured and humbled all at the same time… thank you Flames Radio. Aside from my career it’s also a great look for Reggae and Dancehall.” Meanwhile, her second single ‘The Champ’ featured on a rhythm of the same name is steadily making in-rows across the diaspora and poised to become her next big hit. The ZJ Chrome produced track also forms part of a recent medley video which premiered on several international outlets including BoomShot.com and New York’s CIN Television. The visual is also available online via her official Vevo channel (Youtube.com/TifaOfficialVEVO) or below Tifa, the guest judge and performer at last Saturday’s Magnum Kings & Queens of Dancehall is now making final preparations for a series of international assignments heading into summer with an extensive U.S. stint in June. Fans of the artiste can also expect a number of new releases courtesy of ZJ Chrome, Chimney Records, Arif Cooper and Kurt Riley among others in the weeks ahead.
- VIDEO Spotlight - Chi Ching Ching - Nacho
Chi Ching Ching Video "Nacho" Produced By Jam 2 Records, Video Directed & Edited By RD Studios / Wikd Media @chichingchingja @rdstudiosja @jwonder21
- "Married but Single" LIVE at Kings Theatre, Starring Lisa Raye McCoy, Chrisette Michelle,
Kings Theatre Presents The Stage Play "Married But Single" Starring Lisa Raye McCoy, Chrisette Michele, Darrin Henson, Carl Payne, Lamyia Good, Samson Logan, Terrell Carter and Skye Griffin Saturday, May 21st ( 3:30PM & 8:00PM) and Sunday, May 22nd (3:00PM & 7:30PM) About "Married but Single" Sharon Wilson is in love with R&B sensation, Julian Johnson, who knows everything about singing about love and nothing about how to give it. So after three years of empty promises and fighting off side chicks, Sharon steps out and maybe even steps up as an old flame walks into her life and gives her a taste of all the love she’s been missing. Come enjoy the ever-entertaining Je’Caryous Johnson experience and find out what happens when “I Do” turns into “I did” and a couple conveniently become Married But Single.
- At Home With The Morgans - New Talk Show Featuring the Morgan Sisters
Worldwide (MPR Consulting) - Throughout the music world, the name Morgan resonates with music lovers as The Royal Family of Reggae who in 2016 won a coveted Grammy for Best Reggae Album. It is undeniable that the Morgans are a dynasty that spans all facets of life, and the essence and roots of this family stems from The Morgan Queens namely Una, Taliba, Sandra and Takilat Morgan. Since the public has always had a fascination with this multi-talented family, the sisters have united to give insight into their dynamics with a new pop culture web based talk show "At Home With The Morgans". Geared towards young adults and a mature audience "At Home With The Morgans" #AHWTM is hosted by the four talented biological sisters Una Morgan, Sandra Downie, Taliba Morgan, and Takilat "Taki" Morgan, whom are the daughters of the music legend Denroy Morgan, who had the smashing Billboard single "I'll Do Anything For You". They have a captivating spirit, and a bond that is undeniably connected through love. These ladies have much to say to the world and will bring it to you with class, grace, and beauty. The 12 episode talk show will cover Current Events, Entertainment, Cooking, Beauty and Lifestyle. Six of the 12 episodes will have a segment called "Pajama Talk" in which the ladies will discuss important and life changing topics while enjoying a signature drink. Speaking on how the show concept was developed, Taliba explained: "The best way I can explain it, is that it was like a download from the Universe. It came to me as I was sitting on the sofa with my children. I knew that two of my sisters, Una and Sandra were interested in working with me on some sort of level and it took time for it to be revealed to me what project it should be. Hence the saying "divine timing" I then called them up told them the idea and the rest is history." Sandra added: "The reason I chose to participate in the show is simple...Family + Love. Having a project to work on, at this magnitude, with my sisters, allows us to grow closer and continue a life of building a strong sisterhood. We have always had a wonderful relationship with each other, but being able to laugh, cry and celebrate life's milestones with each other is priceless. This isn't something we thought about lightly, but with serious thought, consideration and of course some bumps in the road, we knew this was something we just had to do. Not just for us, but for our children. " The musical muse, Una Morgan, chimed in by explaining "Taliba knowing my health journey, called me one morning and asked if I would consider being a part of this with my other sisters. I hesitated at first, due to my recovery, but when I thought of the time I had off... I said let's put it to good use!! I love to talk and this was an excellent way to let my inner journalist out." Although there are several talk shows spearheaded by women, Taliba explains why "At Home With The Morgans" differs from others: "What sets us apart is family. It's four sisters and amazing personalities, with different walks of life. Even when we have our disagreements the love we have for each other always works it out, and all of that will be seen through our conversations and hot topics." "I believe what will set us apart is the fact that we are sisters from a big family having something to say. We are international women ambassadors and we will not keep any topic off limits especially if it has anything to do with women empowerment. We want when people watch this show, they walk way learning something about life they never knew. " Una "I chose to participate in this show with my three sisters because this is the first time in a long time that I've had an opportunity to work cohesively with my siblings. Since the passing of our Mom Pearl Foster in August of 1988, we have had to develop our own individual identities. This show allows us all to remember our roots from which we came, and reignite our sisterly bond that has been created originally from the Almighty God." stated Takilat AT Home With The Morgans FOUR SISTERS. FOUR PERSONALITIES. ALL LOVE. ...................................................................................................... Meet The Morgans! Takilat "Taki" Morgan has worked over ten years as a Child Protective Services Social Worker, and now serves Hartford Public Schools Special Education Department. She enjoys the outdoors, values close family time, and loves to be in the kitchen. She is a hard working single mom with two lovely daughters. Taki is known for her straight forward, no nonsense, comedic personality. "What I will bring to the show is my many years of cooking with love for my family. Family recipes that have authentic Jamaican cuisine as its highlight. I will also be able to provide wonderful, quick tasty and delicious quick 15 minute meals for the average working mom, and for me and many other SINGLE MOMS1. Its not easy having a career, maintaining a household, being the provider, and the protector of two beautiful children. However, coming up with quick and easy meal ideas will make this easy for ALL women to relate, and apply these tips, recipes and ideas to their everyday lives. Never forgetting to also make each recipe kid friendly." Una Morgan is a Grammy award winning Recording Artist in the world renowned Reggae group Morgan Heritage. She is a humanitarian by heart and a Global Entrepreneur. Una, out of the bunch, is the mother figure to the ladies. She anchors the group in a way that can only be seen. "I believe that I bring the answers to curious minds to the questions that people might not want to ask. My brothers in Morgan Heritage have been so protective of me, folks hardly ever get a chance to know me as a person. #AHWTM, lets already existing MH fans into my world of intrigue, thoughts on global issues, fitness secrets, hobbies and much more" Taliba Morgan is the CEO of Nagrom Films Inc. and Producer and Creator of the show. She has penned various books and several screenplays throughout her career. Taliba is dedicated to her business and family as a new mother and wife. Taliba is the fiery one out of the ladies. She can laugh and enjoy a moment but won't let her sisters be taken for granted. "I chose to do the show, because it was destiny. Its something I couldn't walk away from. What I will bring is joy, laughter, creativity with a kick of divalicious. I can be a bit of a little know it all. But my sisters put me in my place when they are ready whether i'm the producer and creator of the show or not. The chronicles of being the baby sister." Sandra Downie has been an Entrepreneur for 10+ years. She is the Creative Director + Blogger behind the lifestyle blog, The Rustic Life. She has a passion for sharing with people, style for effortless living, home décor and entertaining ideas as well as easy DIY projects. She is a lifestyle and beauty expert and loves all things girly and pretty. Sandra is a sassy but light hearted woman that won't hesitate to tell you like it is. "As a life long lover of all things pretty, being the lifestyle and beauty expert on the show was an easy avenue in which to participate in the show. I have been an entrepreneur for the past 10+ years working as a creative in makeup artistry, interior decorating, event/party planning, floral design, entertaining and now as a recognized lifestyle blogger. I look forward to sharing with views style for effortless living."
- No International Acts for Reggae Sumfest this Year
The new owner of Reggae Sumfest Joe Bogdanovich, will be making major changes to the festival this year. The event which usually spans three nights including dancehall night and two international nights, will now be scaled down to two nights. There will be no international nights and international acts this year. According to Bogdanovich over the past years, enlisting international acts have become more costly. In an interview with The Jamaica Star he stated., “The kind of cost and money that is spent on international acts has become prohibitive, “he said. “We’d rather not spend money on the outside, but to support our own." “This will help to re-engerise the event,” said Bogdanovich. “Sumfest is a great Jamaican brand promoting dancehall and reggae. I have a lot of respect for it, but we don’t have an international brand. What we have is a concert that brings international acts.” Reggae Sumfest 2016 will also be live streamed globally in interactive 360 Virtual Reality (VR). The event will be held July 17-23 at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay.
- Rihanna Launches College Scholarship Program to Benefit Students in the Caribbean and the U.S
Rihanna has announced a global scholarship program through her Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF), which will award scholarships full college scholarships to students in Barbados, Brazil, Cuba, Haiti, Guyana, Jamaica, and the United States. The scholarships will be awarded up to $50,000, and will be renewed for three years or until a bachelor's degree is earned. Applications for this year's scholarships will be accepted through June 10, 2016. A committee will screen 50 finalists based on academic performance, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience and a personal essay, and the scholarship winners will be announced by August, 2016. “To be able to give the gift of an education is actually an honor,” says Rihanna. “Higher education will help provide perspective, opportunities and learning to a group of kids who really deserve it. I am thrilled to be able to do this". The Clara Lionel Foundation is a nonprofit launched in 2012 by Rihanna that "works to improve the quality of life for communities globally in the areas of health, education, arts, and culture. All details and eligibility criteria can be found at www.claralionelfoundation.org.



















