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On the weekend of August 4-7, the non-profit Mateel Community Center will present the 32nd edition of one of the world’s iconic festival experiences, Reggae On The River. Set on the banks of the majestic Eel River and delivering the best in reggae and world music to the hills of Humboldt County, CA since 1984, the 2016 event will offer the next chapter in the ROTR legacy with global luminaries… Sizzla Kalonji & The Fire House Band, KRANIUM, Anthony B, Protoje & The Indiggnation Band, A Soul Syndicate Reunion featuring Mad Professor with Big Youth, Randy Valentine, Marty Dread & Earl Zero; Mbongwana Star, King Yellowman, Million Stylez, Fatoumata Diawara, Jesse Royal, Sister Carol, Ziggi Recado, Jah9 & The Dub Treatment, House Of Shem, Gappy Ranks, No Maddz, Democratoz, Keznamdi, Mr. Williamz, Locos Por Juana, New Kingston, Addis Pablo, Jah Sun, Lion D, DubTonic Kru, Newen Afrobeat, The I-Deals, Meleku, Bayonics, The Dubba Dubs, and 7th Generation Rise- with more TBA- including DJs, soundsystems, and guest artists, plus the acoustic sounds of Jamaica’s The Overtakers to nice things up in the campground! The event will also showcase more than 60 vending/ non-profit booths, a lively KidLandia, and the camping, community, and irie vibes that made Reggae On The River famous. 3 and 4-day tickets are available at reggaeontheriver.com- or go big with the Ambassador Pass to enjoy unprecedented perks and access for the ultimate festival experience! And while you’re at it, make plans to really do things in style with an RV. RV registration is open now and spaces are very limited, so don’t delay in making these arrangements. Visit the festival website for the full story and start planning your Reggae On The River pilgrimage today. It’s happening August 4-7 at French’s Camp, in Garberville, CA- heart of the Emerald Triangle- and your destination for a higher vibration! http://www.reggaeontheriver.com

"WHAT A GIRL LIKES" is the official single from the forthcoming "UnderEstimated" EP. The EP will be available on iTunes and all digital outlets on Friday, July 18th and includes music from KSR Group label mates, Josh Exantus, SwiftonDemand, Cash Flow Harlem and Hood Celebrityy. "WHAT A GIRL LIKES" was written by Cardi B and produced by @JWhiteDidIt for the KSR Group. "I wanted to give my ladies an anthem that would motivate them to "turn up" as well as to get that bread", says Cardi. During the Month of July Cardi B is on the road headlining her first national tour in support of the "UnderEstimated" upcoming EP. The all age-friendly 11 city tour is hosted by comedian Just Vlad and includes performers; SwiftonDemand, Josh X and Cash Flow Harlem. For tour cities and dates go to UnderEstimatedTours.com. Having appeared on national TV shows such as "Cocktails with Khloe'" "The Doctors" and several FOX affiliates, Cardi B's name is one that will not be forgotten anytime soon. Her debut mixtape "Gangsta Bitch Music" released on March 7, 2016 available on Datpiff and Itunes was received with great accolades with over 14,000,000 streams from Spotify, Apple Music and Google Play collectively, and over 250,000 downloads (200k free downloads and 50k purchased) to date. "WHAT A GIRL LIKES" (AUDIO LINK) ABOUT CARDI B What began simply as a journey of self expression, quickly catapulted Bronx native, Belcalis “Cardi B” Almanzar, into social media stardom. When Cardi B launched her official Instagram page, @iamcardib which now boasts well over 4.2 Million followers, it was unbeknownst to her that sharing 15 second “tirades” and “tell it like it is” videos with a comedic twist would impact her life so drastically. Cardi B’s rambunctious spirit and brave tongue garnered instant online popularity, rapidly increasing her fan-base, including stars like Nelly, Drake, Lee Daniels and 50 Cent. Playful with a sassy edge, Cardi B stands firmly on the motto “be yourself” and “never apologize for being who you are!” Cardi B is quickly evolving into an entertainment triple threat adding music, TV and fashion to her credentials. Cardi B walked in the 2015 New York Fashion Week for designer Gypsy Sport’s official NYFW runway show. Cardi B is the newest character to what has become one of the largest TV franchises in history, VH1’s Love and Hip Hop New York, and recently co-hosted MTV2’s Uncommon sense with Charlamagne the God! Cardi B has evolved into a highly sought after personality, entertainer, and fashion forward trendsetter. Cardi B has obtained the attention of film industry Gods like Lee Daniels, established radio personalities like Ebro and “The Breakfast Club”, and A list celebrity stylists like Patricia Fields. Cardi B is headed only in one direction… UP! Cardi B is authentic, something numerous industries are lacking. Her “keep it real” attitude has made an impression on the world that can never be overlooked or forgotten and she’s just getting started! CARDI B & FRIENDS "UNDERESTIMATED EP" (AUDIO LINK) CONNECT WITH CARDI B: Website: www.IamCardiB.com Facebook Twitter - @IAmCardiB Instagram - @IAmCardiB Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/IAmCardiB Record Label, Booking & Appearances: KSR GROUP KSRGROUPLLC.COM | Info@KSRGROUPLLC.COM

Crab lovers! Looking for something new and excited to try? Well, this recipe will sure to make you wanting more. Crab smothered in a rich and creamy curry coconut sauce with a spicy and bold flavours. Serves 4 Time: 45 minutes Ingredients 2lb crab 1 table spoon curry powder 2 tablespoon vegetable oil 3 garlic cloves, crushed 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger 2 stalk scallions, sliced 1 small onion, sliced 2 sprig fresh thyme 8 pimento berries, crushed salt and pepper, to taste 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped 1/2 cup coconut milk Directions 1. Clean and separate the crab in pieces (cut each crab into 4 pieces) then discard the back. Put crabs to boil for 20 minutes in salted water. (Save liquid stock) 2. In a preheated frying pan over medium heat sauté together; ginger, pepper, minced garlic, thyme and onion. Stir fry until the seasonings are translucent. Add curry powder and cook for an additional 5 minutes then add 2 cups of crab stock (crab water). Then add coconut milk scallion, pimento, salt and pepper bring to the boil and then reduce heat. Add crab and allow to simmer for 15 minutes, stir frequently to avoid sticking. When the sauce is thick, turn off the stove and enjoy. Chef Note: I used buck crab for this recipe but you can use what you have. Fresh or frozen works well. By: Chef Noel Cunningham Chef Noel Cunningham, socially known as Chef Cunny, is the dynamic force behind his catering company, Cuisine by Noel. His philosophy and passion are reflected in his move towards creating healthier cuisine. His mission is to celebrate the love and joy of people coming together to enjoy great food and company. Read More

Soca sensation Rupee will replace Soca stars Bunji Garlin and Fay Ann Lyons the headline acts billed to perform on the Main Stage at the 6th annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in New York. The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is scheduled for Sunday, July 17th place at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, New York. Eddy Edwards, CEO of Jamaican Jerk Festival USA Inc. said, “We were advised by their management team that they will not be able to perform as scheduled on Sunday because of personal circumstances beyond their control. They are extremely disappointed and apologizes to their fans”. Soca sensation Rupee to perform at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival New York on Sunday, July 17 at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens. “Rupee is one of the foremost artists in soca music today. His sound is complex and instantly catchy, a non-stop blend of the flavorful, tuneful and irresistibly danceable rhythms and melodies. He will make quite an impression on stage at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival”. Rupee will join Reggae Ambassadors Third World Band who will rock Roy Wilkins Park with their string of popular hits and reggae classics. Dancehall sensation Dexta Daps will excite the ladies in his first major New York area appearance. More thrills are in store for the females when Gyptian takes the stage performing his latest hits All On Me and Jiggle Jggle. Powerhouse vocals from reggae singer Ikaya and newcomer Mark-Anthony will bring lots of heat to the main stage as well as humour from comedian Pretty Boy Floyd. This year’s festival will also showcase an exciting assortment of jerk delights served by some of New York’s top Caribbean restaurants and chefs, popular cooking competitions and demonstrations as well as informative and entertaining cultural presentations on the Western Union Cultural Stage. Advanced tickets to the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival NY are available online at www.jerkfestivalNY.com or at selected retail outlets in the tri-state area

This pumpkin-pineapple cooler is definitely a crowd pleaser. Hands down. The pineapple combined with the pumpkin is like a match made in heaven with the ginger and lime juice serving as maid-of-honour and best man. This drink is healthy as it is refreshing and ideal for the summer heat. (Makes 4 servings) 2 cups pumpkin, peeled and chopped 1/2 lb pineapple 3 cups water 1 lime, juiced 1-inch piece of ginger, skin removed 1/4 cup granulated sugar Boil pumpkin in reasonable amount of water as it will be needed to blend the pumpkin and pineapple. Once cooked, let both water and pumpkin cool. In a blender, add pineapple, pumpkin (with water) and ginger; blend on high speed until everything is well blended together. Add sugar and stir well until sugar is dissolved. Test for taste and if not sweet enough, add sugar to your desired sweetness along with lime juice. Strain juice through a fine-mesh sieve. Serve immediately. Serving tip: before serving, add a few ice cubes to the glasses and place in the refrigerator to chill for a colder beverage. By: Chef Noel Cunningham Chef Noel Cunningham, socially known as Chef Cunny, is the dynamic force behind his catering company, Cuisine by Noel. His philosophy and passion are reflected in his move towards creating healthier cuisine. His mission is to celebrate the love and joy of people coming together to enjoy great food and company. Read More

Chef Noel Cunningham culinary journey is filled with incredible learning experiences from Jamaica to Canada. His path to becoming one of Jamaica's foremost culinary extraordinaire and chef on the rise in Winnipeg, Manitoba is as authentic and inspiring as the dishes he prepares daily. Who Is Chef Noel Cunningham? Chef Noel Cunningham, socially known as Chef Cunny, is the dynamic force behind his catering company, Cuisine by Noel. His philosophy and passion are reflected in his move towards creating healthier cuisine. His mission is to celebrate the love and joy of people coming together to enjoy great food and company. Where It Began Noel Cunningham’s love for cooking started at an early age during time spent assisting his mother Jennifer Laidley and aunt Miriam Reid, a professional chef and a phenomenal baker, to cook family meals on Sundays and during the holidays. He recalls his mother teaching him to make her signature barbeque chicken and rice and peas dishes. He began experimenting from there with the encouragement of his mother. Introduction to Culinary He was formally introduced to the culinary arts at Edith Dalton James High School in Jamaica where he majored in food and nutrition, including home economics management. He won the school's top performer award for food and nutrition twice and graduated top of his class. By the time he graduated in 2007, he knew without a doubt that he wanted to become a chef. He pursued culinary arts at Jamaica’s prestigious Runaway Bay HEART Hotel & Training Institute (RBH) where he earned a diploma in 2013. While attending RBH he worked as a line cook at the Hedonism Hotel Resort and Spa in Runaway Bay St. Ann Jamaica. He also trained in prestigious hotels such as Grand Bahia Principe, Breezes, San Souci, Jamaica Grande and Royal Decameron, along the island’s famous north coast. Working in the island’s tourist mecca prepared him for a successful culinary career. Upon graduation from RBH at age 21, he became head chef /restaurant manager at the popular Cafe Mantra in Kingston. Media Highlights Chef Noel Cunningham has been featured in numerous newspaper, magazine and television shows in Canada and Jamaica. He recently appeared twice on CTV Winnipeg’s breakfast morning live, Kiss102.3fm, and was featured in the November 2015 and March 2016 issue of JamaicanEats magazine. In the last 12 months he was also featured in the Jamaica Gleaner, Jamaica Observer and the Jamaican magazine. Television appearances included Jamaica’s CVM cooking show Vibes Cuisine; CVM’s on the road to success; CVM at Sunrise morning show; Television Jamaica’s morning program Smile Jamaica, Entertainment Report, Intense, Nyammings cooking show and Talk Jamaica Online Radio. In 2013 Chef Noel moved to Canada to expand his culinary knowledge. Opportunity struck January 2015 when at 24 years he accepted an Executive Chef position at the Burntwood Hotel in Thompson, Manitoba. Chef Noel Cunningham uses his passion and enthusiasm for food matched with his vibrant and contagious personality to engage audiences to relate to him. He prides himself on providing guests with a memorable culinary experience. Website: http://www.chefnoelcunningham.com/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/iamchefcunny/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamchefcunny/?hl=en

US based Reggae singer/songwriter Tyron Daley know as Junior Spice is facing deportation to Jamaica because of an alleged drug charge. Daley is currently in US Immigration custody in Miami after being detained on April 21, 2016. Daley has had his music career put on hold abruptly due to this surprising development and his planned tour and album recording have been postponed indefinitely much to the disappointment of his fans who are just learning of the artist’s plight. His attorney, Danna F. Magloire, LLC said her concerns were that he is a long time JLP supporter who has been very vocal about the socioeconomic conditions in Jamaica and fled the country after attempts on his life back in the early 90s. His deportation will likely spark incidents between JLP and PNP parties, major political foes and violent rivals in Jamaica. Daley had said this in a telephone call before this detention to his manager, Juliet Edwards of Nurture Projects Music in April 2016. ” I am devastated to think that I may leave my home and family after being resident in Florida since 1999! I thought that this issue was all over and I wanted to start back my career, I have lots of songs I had written during the time. I work hard to provide for my family. I was just getting on with life, and now I got this shock news. While I love my homeland of Jamaica, I can’t go back there. Death will be in store for me.” Tyron Daley was born in Kingston Jamaican in 1966 to a large family of 6 brother and 5 sisters. He started singing at the age of 15, inspired by his uncle Eric Tello, who had various hits through the 70’s. He was mentored by Bagga Case and Beres Hammonds’ older brother. Daley was a part of a group called Detour in the early 90’s. He recorded with Winston Boyo Hammond. In 1999, He migrated to Tampa and was lead singer in a Reggae band called “Rebels with a Cause.” He also performed at Wild Splash and was able to perform alongside major hip-hop and R&B artists like Ashanti, Busta Rhymes, and Sean Paul. In 2015 he relaunched his career as a Reggae Artist, Junior Spice. Juliet Edwards, said “Tyron has been open from the start about been previously detained for 9 years due to these same charges. He came well recommended by Reggae industry contacts. He is very talented and I was happy to work with him firstly in 2015, on a voluntary basis to promote his work and later became his manager, which I did due to his sincerity and his talent thinking this issue was all behind him. It’s a really difficult time for him and his family now”. Source: sflcn.com

After proudly peaking at #10 on the reggae iTunes album charts, soulful recording artist K'Coneil debut EP "Love/Lust" made it's debut on billboard. A proud feat for the "Genre fluid" rising star whose soulful has been received to positive reviews from fans, music lovers and media. "Arriving as the boundaries between dancehall and pop are blurring more than ever before, K'Coneil brings a fresh new voice to the scene that's right on time with the current moment." - LargeUp.com Speaking on this accomplishment, an elated K'Coneil stated "Billboard is really considered among the industry's measure of success. I'm honored to even be mentioned on such platform and even more excited that it's the album chart. To debut at #20 is unbelievable, I feel that my hard work is starting to come to fruition. It is an amazing feeling, I am humbled, honored and blessed. I want to push and push for the top spot." The EP executive produced by famed producer Sean Reid and Warren Bloise of Gedion Soldiers Entertainment features an array of musical emotions taking you on an emotional journey from "Hot Like You" (Seannizle), "Not This Time" (Kheilstone). "Loving You Right" and "Spoon" (Okino "DJ Wav" Thomas and Sean "Seanizzle" Reid), "Feel So Right" (Calli B), "Bicycle" (Tricia "ZJ Sparks & Germaine "Mafy" Clarke to "Lightskin Love" (Sean "Seanizzle" Reid). "MY EP Love/Lust is a collection of 7 songs that seek to straddle the thin line between two very complex emotions. As individuals at times we tend to confuse the two and it can lead to very disastrous results. So I try to bring the audience to what I feel is going through our minds and our bodies at the time, the different transitions. So from that moment when we meet the person and your heart is struck. There's a "bang" and it hits you and it feels like that's everything. From the endorphin that you feel with the physical contact and all the pleasures that come with it. Then you have the big realization, this is it! After the interaction and the intercourse of the true feelings involved. Is it love, is it lust? That's the big question, that's the big "Shibang"! And that's the realization to divide to triumph...you're in love, or it's a tragedy..it was all lust..." explained K'Coneil. LOVE/LUST available worldwide! Amazon http://smarturl.it/Amazonlovelustexp Itunes Explicit http://smarturl.it/LoveLustExplicit Itunes Radio Friendly http://smarturl.it/KConeilLoveLustEP

Seasonal affective depression, also known as SAD is a mood disorder that happens every year at the same time. A rare form of season disorder, known as "summer depression," begins in late spring or early summer and end in the fall. Some symptoms of summer depression often are loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, weight loss and anxiety. In general, seasonal affective depression starts in the fall or winter and ends in spring or early summer. Seasonal affective depression affects 4% to 6% of people in the US accordingly to Psychology Today and WebMD. SAD typically causes depression as the days get shorter and colder. But about 10% of people with SAD get it in the reverse and the onset of summer triggers their depression symptoms. An article in WebMD notes that some studies have shown some countries near the equator, for example India, summer SAD is more common than winter SAD. What causes seasonal changes depression? Unfortunately, there are no exact causes of SAD, Scientists think that certain hormones made deep in the brain trigger attitude-related changes at certain times of the year. Or perhaps people become overwhelmed with body image issues, financial worries, heat, or various things that come with summer. Here is a brief story of my experience and some tips that have supported me during the summer season: In summer of 2012, I was going through it; let's just say it was the darkest moments of my life. I had experienced some life changing news earlier that year; I blocked the issue throughout the early months of the year. But when summer time hit my whole vibe went downhill. I did not want to leave my house or be around anybody. My daily routine was to wake up, shower (If I had the desire), eat breakfast, go to work, be miserable at work, leave work, be miserable on the subway ride home, come home, eat, maybe shower and go to sleep. I would literally sleep from 8pm until it was time for me to wake up in the morning to go to work. I would decline invitations where I know everyone would be joyful, b/c I knew I did not want to pretend to be joyful and be asked questions if I appeared or acted otherwise. I would only go out with my close friends and sisters, and pretend I was ok, but in reality I wanted to be home crying and sleeping. I gained a lot of weight that summer and when I went for my routine check up my vitamin D levels was low, my doctor was concerned and I just did not care. Fast forward now and few summers later, I made a commitment to myself that All Summer 16'; I will be grounded in joy, harmony and passion. I will follow my spirit guide and be the flow of life's love and joy. I also get to open myself up to endless possibilities and do all things that will support my well being. Often times I tend to over commit myself to people and events during the summertime, not because I want to be up in the mix, but more because the summertime is a time for reconnecting with people I have not seen all year and also I do not want to disappoint people if I say no (that is the people pleaser inside of me). However; because of profound self-awareness and therapy, I now can identify my triggers and work on my balance so that I get to create a purposeful day to day. Here are some summer tips to support you to create a purposeful and fun Summer 16: • Make an appointment with your Doctor to discuss your symptoms, that way you can get an assessment and be catered to your individual need. Yes, the term summer time blues can come and go, but symptoms of depression should never be taken lightly. • Create an active "fun free things to do" calendar. Depending on your city/country Google "free things to do in the summer" and trust me there is a lot going on. See what sparks your interest or curiosity; sign up and create a fun pack calendar. Bringing out the inner kid brings so much joy to your spirit and it makes is easier to cope. Besides, why not enjoy the summer days at no cost. • Exercise and keep yourself hydrated: Now exercising outdoors in the summer can be a bit risky, due to high humidity and heat wave. Now there are various things you can try. Wake up early and go for a nice jog or run before the sun and heat rises, sign up for swimming classes at an indoor facility such as the YMCA. Drinking tons of water. Also, purchase fresh fruits such as pineapples, watermelon, strawberries to eat or make into a refreshing and healthy smoothie. • Be around people: Yes, isolation sounds much inviting during these moments, but why not stretch a little and get out the house. Surround yourself with the people in your life who are positive and uplifting or join a community of like minded people. You do not have to force yourself and spill out every detail, nor do you have to engage fully in conversations. But just the energy alone can shift your symptoms. I do recommend letting these people know ahead of time of what you are experiencing and that you being around them is a way to manage and be uplifted. You want to surround yourself with people that will not sell out on you and hold you at your highest possibilities not matter your current situation. I hope these tips are helpful and that everyone enjoys Summer 16. Stay Prayer Up, get some sun and have fun. By: Alexandra Tatis, CONTRIBUTOR

I spent a week in Havana and it felt like it just was not enough time. Each day drew us into wanting to explore more and more of this magical city. Cuba is known as stepping back into time, therefore it is best described in photos. It’s one country you can never tire of taking photos being surprised by each turn you make – the people, the food, the architecture and yes the famous vintage cars! So what would I recommend after exploring Havana for one glorious week? Rent a Vintage Car with Driver and Guide for a tour of Havana Yes, there is the hop-on-hop-off bus and walking tours in Havana, but if you’re going to do it old school, I highly recommend bargaining rent a vintage car with driver and guide. We didn’t mind paying 20CUC for 3 hours of cruising around the city in a vintage car feeling like “locals” for a few hours and visiting all the famous sites. From a tobacco house to Chinatown to getting the history at important sites such as Revolution Square and stopping for a mojito as refreshment after driving through Old and New Havana, we did it in style! Museo de la Revolucion There are many museums in Havana but this museum is housed in Batista’s old presidential palace as the main building, a very impressive building and an important monument in Havana. Whilst the history of the revolution is extraordinary, to some the exhibition isn’t all well explained for non-Spanish speaking visitors. The outside section shows the cruiser Granma that Fidel Castro used to enter Cuba and other such vehicles from the revolution. My favourite section was seeing photos and artifacts of the women who were also active in the revolution. Very cool and definitely worth a visit in my opinion! Visit the many hotels for amazing architecture and furniture Old Havana is best experienced on foot, getting lost wandering through the streets and admiring what’s behind some of the crumbling facades. It was necessary to visit select major hotels (the only place in the city with wifi access) so we decided then to visit the hotel lobbies along our walks and we certainly were not disappointed! All glorious inside, from colonial Hotel NH Parque Central dead in the centre of old town, to elegant Hotel Inglaterra across the street to beautiful art deco Hotel Raquel with an oasis of a rooftop garden, chic Hotel Santa Isabel on Plaza de Armas with its blue shutters and antique furniture, the sculptures in Hotel Sevilla and the grand daddy in the Verdado district, the massive Hotel Nacional perched on a rise overlooking the Malecon and famous for all the celebrities that have passed through. Yes there is a Chinatown in Havana! Havana once had one of the largest Chinese communities in Latin America so it is no surprise to find nicely tucked away in Centro Havana, just minutes walk from Parque Central, a strip of Asian restaurants near Calle Zanja. The restaurants are similar to Chinatowns in NYC or London, and although I’ve been told Chinatown in Havana is not as bustling as it once was, just walking through the immense gate designed in the style of the Minh dynasty, with old cars and bicycle taxis passing by, make you imagine what it once was. Stop by the Train Museum Cuba was the first country in Latin America to have a railroad due to its valuable sugar industry. In fact, it opened its railway system before Spain and just after Great Britain, the United States, Belgium and Germany. In their efforts to conserve their railway history Cuba opened the steam locomotive museum however you can free Walk along the Malecon There is no other place that shows Havana’s soul than the 8km sea wall along Havana’s coast. The locals come out in the cooler evenings to spend time on the Malecon with their loved ones. It’s also the perfect place to people see vintage cars, watch and take in the beautiful sea views with the fort in the distance. Visit La Cabana and Murro Castle A quick taxi ride over to the fort is worth exploring. It’s even more spectacular to go in the evening in time for sunset views over the city and the touristy firing of the canon. Yes, there are a lot of tourists and locals alike who come just for this every evening, but it’s worth the views of the city and exploring a part of Cuba’s fascinating history. Eat at local Paladars Paladars, which are family run restaurants usually in their homes, are the best place to sample local cuisine. They vary in price ranges, but they are a dime a dozen so choosing can be difficult. We quite enjoyed the personal ones such as Chez Aimee and Restorante La Familia where the mothers-turned-chefs made us feel at home. Beware of random people on the street wanting to recommend and take you to their favourites though. It’s their way of hustling and getting paid from the Paladar for bringing in new customers. Daiquiris and Mojitos Some consider it very touristy, but I say it’s a must to follow in Hemingway’s footsteps, having daiquiris in El Floridita and mojitos in La Bodiguita del Medio. They may be pricier than mojitos elsewhere, but it’s about the experience so why not? Take a Day Trip outside Havana From visiting the gorgeous beaches of Varadero to the tobacco fields of Viñales, the options are plentiful from the tourism office; day trips from Havana in comfortable air conditioned buses and with some very entertaining guides (at least ours was!). A perfect way to get out of the bustling city and experience a different aspect of local Cuban life. Ode to Barcadi! Who doesn’t love rum? Who doesn’t know Barcadi? It may not be made in Cuba anymore, but Cuba is still referred to as the home of Bacardi. Although the building was confiscated from the Barcadi family by the communist government during the revolution, the recently renovated Barcadi building remains a beauty to look at; it is after all named as one of the finest art deco buildings in Latin America. Discover the many new hip cafés that are opening Havana is changing. It’s not immediately obvious at this present time, but boutique hotels, cocktail bars and chic restaurants are opening up in the city. It’s a new level of luxury behind the colonial façades. Shout out to Javier the bartender in Fumerie Jacquline on Calle Compostela who took exceptional care of us the few times we frequented the bar/restaurant/clothing store (because he was a cutie mixing awesome drinks, the sandwiches and there was air condition), all with a gorgeous view of la Iglesia del Santo Angel Custodio across from it. People Watch From the beautiful Prado to every corner you turn, the locals are outside, spending time with each other, drinking, smoking, playing anything from dominoes to chess, even the kids playing in the streets. Reminded me of my childhood days and our outdoor activities pre-digital technology. Visit the Squares! Old Havana has four main squares. Plaza Vieja (Old Square) is the most stunning, but I was equally enthralled by Plaza de la Cathedral. Be on the look out for the interesting bronze statues that are around the squares and parks. My favourite was Antonio Gades, famous Spanish flamenco dancer, on Plaza de la Cathedral. There is so much more to explore in Havana. From visiting the many salsa clubs and amazing nightlife to relaxing on the beaches nearby, but after a week I knew I wanted to return to this city. It’s one I could never tire of visiting. Havana truly is magical and enchanting in a way words cannot describe. You just need to go visit By: Marissa Dookeran, CONTRIBUTOR

SOLD-OUT (5000)​ Capacity for Ziggy Marley & Friends at Amphitheater at Coney Island. It was an historical moment in time when on Saturday, June 25th, 2016, international superstar Ziggy Marley, Steele Pulse, Ed Robinson and Maxi Priest took the stage at the new prestigious Amphitheater in Coney Island, NY to a sold out crowd of reggae music lovers. First to take the stage to eager patrons was reggae veterans Ed Robinson backed by the renowned Derrick Barnett & his Statement band, who delivered some of his greatest hits such as “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door”, “Bad Minded People”, and “Burnin’ and Lootin”. The crowd sang along with Ed's classics and gave the Amphitheater a proper reggae baptismal. Maxi Priest Beniton The vibes in full gear, international billboard star Maxi Priest armed with his band, gave an epic performance from start to finish. Best known for fusing R&B influence and Reggae, Maxi Priest gave the crowd a taste of his masterful collection of hits ‘Some Guys Have All The Luck,’ “Easy to Love” “Just a Little Bit Longer” “House Call” “Close to You” and most recently, “Take It Easy”. To the surprise and excitement of the masses, Maxi Priest welcomed onstage Dancehall recording artist Beniton. No stranger to the crowd, Beniton recent remix of Rihamma's single went viral with over 5 million views in 5 days. Beniton whose catalog includes hit of his own gave a thrilling and prolific performance to an excited audience. Continuing this historical night, Grammy award-winning reggae band Steel Pulse who was one of Bob Marley's favorites, brought the true essence and roots of reggae. The multi-cultural crowd belted along and rocked to Steel Pulse popular hits “Taxi” “Steppin Out” “Chant a Psalm”, “Roller Skates” and “Worth His Weight in Gold”. Ziggy Marley To cap out this magical musical night, Grammy award-winning reggae star Ziggy Marley, son of Reggae legend, Bob Marley gave a mystical performance exploring from his classic collections of hits. Old and young, reggae lovers sang along to "Love is My Religion", “Tomorrow People, “Fly Rasta” and to the crowd's delight performed songs from his father's catalog, the iconic Bob Marley's . Closing out with the universal message "I want You to Love".It was a night like no other, pure organic love that left everyone wanting more when Reggae took over the Amphitheater!

From playing the hits to producing the hits, renowned DJs such as Major Lazer, David Guetta, Daft Punk, Diplo and DJ Sultan among others have translated their keen ear for music and first hand knowledge of what makes their crowd move to deliver hit music. Playing to worldwide audiences, DJ-Songwriter-Producer DJ Sultan's mission is to break all musical borders and stereotype by blending hard beats, world rhythms, and great melodies to keep the world dancing. "The Walls have come down, the barriers are broken. There is no longer a distinction in genre. Music has officially transcended any preconceptions, and all audiences of any persuasion can com together and feel the energy of the song that drives people to move and dance. The lines between artist, producer, and DJ have also been erased. That means the artistry of writing songs and melodies, and the technical abilities of production to bring those melodies to life, combined with the energy and connection with the Audience that the DJ has, all come together to create a new experience. It's a new kind of party, and everyone is invited" - DJ Sultan His latest project features multi-award winner, Jamaican dancehall star Elephant Man with the Pop/Electro/Caribbean/Reggae single "Hip Sings". Known as the "Energy God", Elephant Man who was once signed with New York-based label Bad Boy Records, is world renowned for his songs and dances and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, as well as received International recognition when Puma used his single "All Out" for its 2004 Olympics commercial campaign. Speaking on how the single and collaboration was conceived, DJ Sultan explained "While crafting the song - I wanted to make sure the energy is constant, and driving forward. Once I had the music doing that, I knew I needed a vocalist who could provide the same level of enthusiasm - and who better to do that than the Energy God himself, Elephant Man." Adding "When recording, the studio was literally thumping...Dj Norie of Power 105 said "You almost got as much energy as ELE.." and I responded " You mean he almost has as much energy as me!" Voiced in Jamaica, and mixed in Chicago by Engineer Eric Yoder, "Hip SIngs" featuring Elephant Man was written and produced by DJ SULTAN, and is now available on all major online digital stores DJ Sultan feat Elephant Man "HIP SINGS"