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Dubai, in recent years, has become an even more popular tourist favourite. It is no surprise when their national airline, Emirates, have extended the number of US cities they fly to, thereby making it easier for many to connect, including us from the Caribbean. So many have been intrigued by the riches of the Middle East and the Emirate of Dubai tops the list. So why is there intrigue? Well simply put - Dubai has a little of everything; combining the old and the new to offer your own personal Arabian adventure. I have to admit that after three visits Dubai remains my favourite, so on this last trip I surprised Mom with tickets to accompany me on a little luxurious getaway to Dubai. Apart from shopping, her main goal was just to put her feet in the Arabian Sea and then go tell all her friends back home. Typical right? Oil may have helped transform this once fishing village into a fast paced world class city on the Persian Gulf but Dubai easily captures one's fascination. Everything in Dubai is so grand and over the top, it is like open sesame into this great Arabian wonderland from the minute you arrive. Many know the Emirate to be a fantastic resort filled with modern and futuristic attractions, but Dubai has also done well in preserving its authentic Bedouin heritage, Arabian Nights bazaars and wild life in both their desert parks and bird sanctuaries. There is no denying the extravagance that is Dubai too. The buildings are simply either big or bigger. Afterall, they pride themselves in constructing the tallest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa. Dubai is an architecture junkie haven. Between the amazing skyscrapers, extravagant hotels and the manmade islands that are cities in themselves, the architecture will simply wow you. The old port which was once filled with small Arab dhow boats has eclipsed into the world’s largest artificial harbour. They have also created the well known manmade Palm Islands and boast of six and seven star hotels including the Burj Al Arab. The Dubai Mall is also one of the biggest in the world with the largest aquarium in the world and the Mall of the Emirates houses the only indoor ski slope. Yes, Dubai is in a class by itself and continues to expand attracting visitors across the globe for their modern Arabian adventure. So what makes Dubai such a hot destination and what would Mom and I recommend for a luxury getaway to Dubai? Entry to the Gold Souks The Gold Souks Mom’s always drilled into me that the best souvenir I could ever invest in is jewellery. So naturally we headed to the famous gold souks, not just to ogle at some elaborate 22 karat gold pieces but to buy a few pieces…as souvenirs for ourselves off course! It is definitely worth a visit and has to be the most gold I have seen in one place. If for nothing else, it is on par with a museum, walking through miles of stores with exquisite gold displays that are photo worthy. One of the many displays of gold jewelry The Spice Markets The spice souks give you a taste of old Dubai – the way people shopped, what they bought and how. We love to cook and from the minute you walk in, the air is filled with scents of spices, perfumes and herbs; all mesmerizing and enticing you into buying some to take home. They make great souvenirs too! The Dubai Mall Well if you haven’t noticed I love to shop and what better place than Dubai Mall, the biggest,mall in the world which, again, is like a museum in itself. It is definitely a unique experience shopping with a view of fishes in the Dubai Aquarium. The Emiratis know what they are doing; staring at fishes is a form of therapy and relaxation, just what you need in between shopping to extend your time in the mall. Smart people! I equated the feeling to one of the casinos in Las Vegas where they pump oxygen in so you’re always fully alert and stay longer! The Burj Khalifa Ok maybe this should of been number one on my list but shopping clearly was on our agenda first! Dubai prides itself in constructing the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Many call it the jewel of Dubai and it really is an amazing structure to ogle at even if you’re not an architecture junkie. The Armani Lounge at the Armani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa is also note worth for lunch with a view. The Burj Al Arab This iconic and opulent luxury 7-star hotel is situated on an artificial island 270m off Dubai’s coast and has been designed in the shape of a billowing sail of a boat. The shipping geek in me has been fascinated with it for years. The Burj Al Arab also houses some unique dining experiences, Dubai has afterall become a culinary haven over recent years. In treating Mom, we dined at the Burj Al Arab twice. I chose the luxury al fresco dining at the Majlis Al Bahar only for some stunning views under the stars of the Burj al Arab as it changed colours at night. On the next day, traditional afternoon tea on the first floor at the Sahn Eddar Lounge with the symphony of classical sounds including the harp for entertainment, making the experience extra special. They really give you the royal treatment, no matter what dining choice you choose. Day trips to the other Emirates Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the UAE, is only a 45 minute drive away and while it is just as extravagant as Dubai, there are many attractions to spend more than a day in this other famous Emirate. One most significant and must visit is the grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque, which is considered to be the key for worship in the country. Stick around for some stunning sunset views too. View from Palm Deira with Atlantic in the distance The Palms Islands If I were to spend one night (or more) all over again it would definitely be a tough choice which of the Palm Islands to choose from. Palm Jumeirah may be the first and most popular, it was afterall named a must see architectural wonder by Expedia but the newest on the block Deira Islands enticed us to visit. With spectacular sunset views over the city and with Atlantis in the distance, it was a good decision on our part. The shopping malls being built on these islands are nothing short of massive. Now if only I could buy my own island in “The World", which is another extravagant manmade project built on the Arabian Gulf. Unfortunately Trinidad and Tobago is not one of the Caribbean islands included in this map. Bummer. View from Palm Deira with Atlantic in the distance The Activities When one thinks of Dubai it is natural to think desert too. But there is no time for boredom when there is no shortage of activities (other than shopping and eating off course!) in Dubai. 4x4 desert safari From 4×4 sand safaris to scuba diving and snorkeling amongst corals, skydiving, seeing Dubai by helicopter or boat on the Dubai Creek and relaxing on the clean golden beaches on the Arabian Sea, Dubai certainly has a way to making you forget the hot temperatures while giving you a memorable experience. 4×4 sand safaris are a must, it is definitely a unique experience you will never forget! And after feeling on cloud nine experiencing the over indulgence that is Dubai, it was time to fly home on Emirates. I have flown them many times before and raved even more about their world class service, but this trip was extra special since I finally took Mom along with me. Emirates is now her favourite airline too with the best luxury service she has ever experienced to enhance her little taste of Arabia. Dubai…a city that keeps you forever intrigued and wanting to return for more. ................................................................................................................. Marissa Dookeran - CONTRIBUTOR Marissa has been traveling since she was four years old. After leaving an international corporate career and 62 countries later, she has chosen to settle back into islandlife in Trinidad keeping up with her travel blogging and business. She continues to travel using Trinidad as her base. Follow her on: Twitter: @madtraveldiarie Instagram: @madtraveldiaires @exploretnt Facebook: MAD Travel Diaries Website: http://www.madtraveldiaries.com

Summer 2016 is upon us! Our favorite time of the year when we get to TURN UP with the hottest concert series in NYC -George Cooke presents: JAMMIN' EVENTS! Jump in the C.A.B with STARLISA and your friends so we can link up with Ziggy! David Nesta “Ziggy Marley' that is! It seems as if Mr. Marley is practically a musical legend by birthright. However, from his Early days with ZIGGY MARLEY & the Melody Makers (The Conscious Party, 1988) to his solo records (Dragonfly, 2003) and, (Love is my Religion, 2006) the Multi- Grammy Award winning Musician and Producer has solidified himself as an international educator, humanitarian and musical genius. And, he has friends for your friends too! Enter, “Knockin' on Heaven's Door” hit singer; ED ROBINSON and, Grammy Award-winning reggae ensemble STEEL PULSE. WAIT….. we're not done. How about you add this universal reggae sensation by the name of MAXI to that line-up? Summer, We welcome you. Jammin' Events, we thank you! Tickets can still be purchased: Online: www.Ticketmaster.com Phone: (800) 745-3000 Outlets: Brooklyn- CONRAD’S BAKERY, TOPAZ RESTAURANT, SILVER KRUST RESTAURANT, TASTY DELICIOUS AND TRELAWNI RESTAURANT Queens- VP RECORDS Bronx- MOODIES RECORDS • A PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO AFUWI SCHOLARSHIP AND PROVIDENT CLINICAL SOCIETY BROOKLYN

Does this special someone enjoy experimenting and would like to prepare fantastic coffee at home, like a barista? KitchenAid® has launched a new line of coffee makers, with the passion of those of us who proudly call ourselves coffee gourmets in mind. These coffee makers focus on the specialty coffee market. Unlike other brands, these new products and gadgets were specifically created to be able to prepare artisanal coffee. They are for a gourmet market that seeks to obtain the best flavors from coffee, like those resulting from rich manual methods — but with the precision of automatic preparation. Why artisanal coffee? The journey coffee makes from plantation to cup is a long one. A coffee bean, which is the seed of a fruit, first undergoes a sowing and growing process, and then is roasted and ground to achieve the final product. An awareness of this delicate, artisanal process is essential, and it matters to consumers who appreciate specialty coffees. For them, it is important to discover that their favorite coffee is not mass-produced. When coffee is treated like the fresh product that it is, all the details in the process are handled very carefully. Coffee is a delicate, special ingredient that requires skills to obtain a variety of flavors based on its origin, history, and the yield of the coffee bean harvest. The coffee industry has its own intricacies regarding production, sales, and preparation. Specialty coffees challenge producers to sell them sustainably. However, this is a time when the market prefers to focus on quality, as has happened with wine, beer, and food in general. It is no longer about getting a large cup of coffee. People prefer a smaller one that has better taste and quality. These products are perfect to help you enjoy coffee time, a special moment! Coffee prepared your way and to your taste, with the newest and most complete line of artisanal coffee makers from KitchenAid®. You will find the most advanced technology in exclusive designs to prepare your own customized, exquisite coffee — brewed to perfection. Like only you and KitchenAid® know how. GIFT LIST.......... Siphon Coffee Brewer Watch the fascinating process of vacuum brewing with the exclusive technology of the new Siphon Coffee Brewer by KitchenAid®. Pressure pushes water up through the siphon tube into the top jar where it completely immerses the coffee, extracting the purest and richest essences of your favorite beans. The perfect method for those who love coffee and want to savor it without changing its essence. For those with a taste for clean, complex coffee, with a medium body, in which all the flavors and oils are noticeable. The unique and exclusive design allows you to observe the fascinating process of vacuum-brewed coffee. Make your coffee without complications in three simple steps. Place the coffee in the top brew unit. Add water to the bottom carafe. Finally, push the “on” button and that’s it! Coffee just the way you like it. Pour Over Coffee Brewer The “pour-over” method has always been considered a manual art in which pouring water slowly and in short bursts produces a light body coffee with clean and bright flavors full of floral notes, optimally extracting the coffee’s flavors and aromas. The exclusive automated pour over technology precisely mimics the manual process of pulsing water over the grounds, steeping, and allowing the grounds to fully bloom. The advanced heating system heats the water to the optimal range at the top of the brewer, minimizing heat loss during the extraction process. The Result: a perfect cup of coffee. The magic of this method compared with the most used method, drip coffee makers, is based on not filling up the filter basket with water, and getting drops to come out slowly. Water is heated on the top chamber (compared with drip, which is on the bottom, causing the water to lose heat during transportation). With this system, the water is always at the perfect temperature. It is ideal for a single cup of coffee. Precision Press Through exclusive technology and sleek, functional design, the Precision Press by KitchenAid® ensures the best French Press coffee can be brewed at home. This is the fastest and easiest method to prepare a coffee that is pure, strong and intense, full-bodied and with lasting flavor. This French Press’ exclusive design has an integrated scale and timer, making it simple to measure brew time and the precise ratio of coffee grounds to water. This ensures a deliciously perfect cup of coffee until the very last drop. With dual wall stainless steel construction, your coffee stays hotter, longer and guarantees coffee without grounds — just flavor and quality to the last drop. Burr Grinder A great cup of coffee starts with the perfect grind. The Burr Grinder by KitchenAid® is the best tool to grind coffee, ensuring that the quality of the coffee is maintained and its flavor is never compromised. The easy-to-use grind control dial allows you to choose from 15 grind settings, from coarse for French Press to very fine for espresso. It’s premium construction, die cast metal housing is durable and easy to wipe clean and adds a touch of taste and style to your kitchen. Preserves coffee quality with low revolutions per minute (RPMS). Burrs turn at just 450 rpm, which generates minimal heat, maintaining the coffee’s original properties and flavor. Espresso Maker The Espresso Maker by KitchenAid® allows you to channel your inner barista and make the most delicious espressos at home. By simply passing hot water at a high pressure through ground coffee, you achieve a very strong, dark, and full-bodied espresso. The controlled pressure (15-BAR) guarantees precise pressure pump propels water with great force through the coffee grinds. The result: a concentrated, full-bodied espresso with a rich layer of crema every time. The Espresso Maker, made with die-cast metal, has a five-year warranty. This guarantees many years of delicious espressos made at home with the quality you expect from KitchenAid®. Enjoy an artisanal coffee maker for every taste!

Jamaica Kincaid's twisted quest for self began with her May 25, 1949 birth in Antigua. She was then christened Elaine Potter Richardson, but when she fled the island at the age of seventeen, she left her family as well as her name behind and entered North America as Jamaica Kincaid. Her life should seem familiar to those who know her heavily autobiographical work. She worked first in New York City as an au pair, for an upper class family much like the one pictured in Lucy. She left this work to study photography at the New School for Social Research and then went on to Franconia College in New Hampshire (but did not take a degree) before returning to New York. There she became a regular contributor to the New Yorker magazine, writing for nearly twenty years (1976-1995) before the arrival of new management convinced her to leave. She now resides in Bennington Vermont with her husband and children. Kincaid's status as an exile informs so much of her writing. It allows (or perhaps forces) her to maintain distance from both her past and her present, as she critically examines the suffocating smallness (and small-mindedness) of her native Antigua, then juxtaposes it against the ignorant opulence of North America. Her narrators too seem alienated from all those around them, seeking both control over and freedom from these human connections known as relationships. But no discussion, no matter how brief, can be complete without mention of the central relationship in Kincaid's life--that with her mother. Kincaid's tight, lyrical prose guides the reader through her tortured recollections of her mother, as that relationship takes on the dual gravity of mother-daughter relationships that many readers can relate to as well as of the hegemonic interactions between mother country (here England) and daughter island (Antigua). Stacking these parallel visions on top of each other and infusing them with her own feelings of anger and suffocation, Kincaid draws the reader through the struggle for personal development not only of her narrators but of the writer herself. Source: http://www.postcolonialweb.org/

Taymer Mason is a Barbadian trained microbiologist and food scientist. A self-described bookworm growing up she spent her days reading scientific books, writing poetry and painting. Taymer (pronounced Tay mar) describes herself as an artist at heart. In 2010 the vegan chef wrote Caribbean Vegan which is being released as a second edition in November 2016. Taymer was always obsessed with botany at a young age and believes that all plants have a purpose. In 2006 she started making products for her natural hair using Barbadian molasses, wild hibiscus flowers and forest made island oils. This bilingual globe trotter spends her days writing cookbooks on veganism, marketing artisanal small businesses and creating new hair and skin products. She hopes to launch a ‘clean’ natural hair and skin line by 2017. CEM did a Q&A with the brilliant and multitalented entrepreneur to learn more about her latest ventures. You are a Scientist, Vegan Chef, a natural hair and skin product developer and entrepreneur how did this all came about? I did my undergrad in microbiology and ecology and I trained for many years as a food scientist. A food scientist is someone who monitors the process of product making and carries out test on finished goods. I worked for a company in Barbados that created fine food products. I designed products for the mass market in a test kitchen. I later worked in airline catering in HACCP management and later for public sector catering in France. I went vegan back in 2006 and after moving to France I felt disconnected from my local cuisine. In 2010 I got a book deal and penned Caribbean Vegan which was a tribute to my food culture and also the change in my diet to more compassionate eating. The beauty product development came out of me going natural back in 2006. I always had an interest in botany and creating my own blends. I had a little free time between a cookbook I was writing and I decided to write a full colored book outlining different natural hair recipes. I decided at 30 years old I did not want to go back to the traditional job setting and I started businesses and failed due to lack of proper planning. With my failures in tow and the lessons learnt freshly branded in my brain, I was able to start projects again that were more stable and profitable. You are currently developing a skincare line, what can we expect? I developed a natural hair and skin line two years ago. It will launch it in 2017. The products are developed by me from initial concept to final product. I spent years experimenting with formulations and putting it through challenge testing independently and in a laboratory. The active ingredients will be at the forefront of the product instead of being just one drop. The results from using the products will be instant and safe to use on children. The skin care line focusses on skin solutions with natural products that target acne, wrinkles, dry and oily skin. You use a variety of interesting ingredients, where do you source them from? I use ingredients that are found primarily in the Caribbean. I use fresh plants to make botanical water, I use a lot of Aloe vera plant and hibiscus. The other additives likes oils I would source from suppliers in the country of origin and try to get the freshest products because if you start with inferior products the final product will be inferior. Your products are made of refreshing mixtures, such as Moringa, Papaya, Frangipani Oil, and Lemongrass. How do you come up with the mixtures for each product? I hike a lot and I always had a love for plants. Over the years from reading and experimenting I know what plant is good for what skin or hair solution. For instance papaya is good for anti-breakage, moringa works well for strength, frangipani flowers have a beautiful fragrance that can be transferred to oils. What are your favorite ingredients to use? I love using fresh Aloe vera leaf juice to be a base in my hair products. While people may think aloes is a bit overdone it is not so. It just has not been done properly so the effect was always minimal. For skin care I love passion fruit oil for skin care because it absorbs well into and doesn’t leave the skin greasy. When will the line be available and where can readers buy your product? I am hoping for a holiday release or early 2017. The product will be available online and hopefully on Amazon.com in the early stages. To keep on top of the product follow me on Instagram @kinkalchemy or @therealcaribbeanvegan. Tell us about your book Kink Alchemy? Kink Alchemy is a book I self-published between books. I was waiting for my publishers to get back to me with my copy edits on my other book Caribbean Vegan. I spent two months creating easy to make handcrafted natural hair products that could be replicated by the novice. I always wanted to write a natural hair book with photos of the actual finished products. There are a few books out there like that but they did not have that appeal of completed products looking like commercial products. I was looking for a book like that so I wrote it myself. What was the motivation behind the book? I think that the Caribbean people have grown to consume media and information but creating it to the level that their voices are out there internationally is still very low. I think many of us were lucky to have higher education making us equipped with the tools to be game changers and creators. I want to set the stage and the pace for persons who want to let their voice be heard. You also wrote book called Caribbean Vegan , how challenging was that for you to come up with recipes. I do not think conceptualizing is difficult. I could write five cookbooks in a year if you gave me a live in assistant and the food. The challenge comes from executing, shooting photos and cleaning up. I had limited failures when writing recipe books and if I did I tried again until it was perfect. Books have deadlines and trying to execute four recipes a day, shoot photos and then still write is a challenge. What’s your favorite recipe in the book? I love the Rasta Pasta with Jerk Walnut Meatball. It is a beautiful recipe with a coconut curry sauce and the balls are made with a mixture of walnuts and mushrooms and spicy jerk seasoning. The bite of the meatball is tender and juicy and the pasta with the crisp peppers and flavorful curry sauce work well together. Rasta Pasta with Jerk Walnut Meatball When will the book be available and where? The book is currently available for pre-order on Amazon and it will be released this fall. What advice would you give to someone that wants to become a vegan? A lot of people are going vegan to be thin or because it is in style at the moment. I am vegan because I am a compassionate eater and consumer and I do not see animals as food. If you want to go vegan go vegan for the right reasons as it deals with environmental awareness and ethical eating. Read blogs and start to make recipes at home. Do not be afraid to experiment with spices. Start with one meal in the day and build out from that. Surround yourself with positive people because many people are ignorant when it comes to veganism and may make discouraging remarks. This can set you back and you may abandon your journey. Avoid places that sell meat because you and coming off from being an omnivore so, hanging out at a fish fry may not be a good idea early in the game. What can we expect from you in the near future? I would like know that too (chuckles), well by the end of 2016 there should be four books with my name on it on Amazon. I would have launched my natural hair and skin line. I want to get into cooking shows so maybe I will be on your TV screen soon. I am young and free and the world is there for me to take on. I am ready to take new adventures. See one of Taymer's recipe .... Coco Aloe Deep Conditioner from Kink Alchemy by Taymer Mason Copyright 2016 Approximate Yield 500 ml This conditioner is going to change your hair’s life! Yes it is a bold statement but it is true. Do you know one of those Holy Grail products that everyone and their grandmother goes on about? This is it! If your hair is dull, dry and not styling well this will RESET you hair back to happier times. This makes my hair beautiful after one use so if it had to be sold it would be bad for business. I developed this formula a few years ago when my hair was very tight and dry and nothing would work, and the rest is history. I will just jump into this recipe and suggest this as a thoughtful holiday gift for your natural friends. Dress this up in a glass mason jar with beautiful ribbons and add the directions with a beautiful hand written card and BOOM, you have a friend for life! You are welcomed and your hair says thank you too. What you will need Paring Knife Blender Measuring Cup Measuring spoons Formula ¼ cup honey/ agave nectar, 1 can coconut milk, ½ cup Aloe vera chopped, 2 tablespoons coconut oil, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon black castor oil, 1 tablespoon moringa oil options or any oil of your choice e.g. jojoba, 1 ½ tablespoon xanthan gum and a few drops of essential oil of your choice, preservative, optional. Rationale Ingredients are blended into a smooth consistency. Method Blend honey/ agave nectar, coconut milk, Aloe vera, coconut oil, olive oil, castor oil, optional moringa oil until white and smooth, add half of the xanthan gum and blend for 30 seconds. Check the consistency and if it is still too thin add in the remaining gum and blend until you have a creamy thick conditioner. Stir in essential oils and optional preservative. Directions Apply on washed hair or unwashed hair, it works just the same. Apply mixture to the scalp and hair and put on a plastic cap for 15 minutes. Leave on hair covered with a cap. Leave in for minimum one hour and maximum 12 hours (yes you can sleep in it). If you are in a rush you can cover your hair with a cap and sit under a hooded dryer for 20 minutes. Wash out and style as usual. This is an excellent detangling conditioner. Alchemist Notes Switch up the scents for the season. Try peppermint essential oils for the holidays, lavender and sweet orange for late spring and lemongrass ginger for summer.

The 1st Annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, DC., Sunday, June 19, 2016 on Pennsylvania Avenue, between 12th and 14th Streets NW in Washington, DC., Noon to 9:00 p.m. The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, DC will offer residents of Greater Washington as well as visitors, a deliciously entertaining experience as they feast on spicy jerk cuisine, enjoy hot music and bask in the cool festival vibes. It's a Festival with a distinctly Caribbean flavor; a must-attend event for friends & families who relish exotic food & drink, a warm positive vibe, and of course, world-class reggae & cultural performances. Presented by the Institute of Caribbean Studies and produced by Jamaican Jerk Festival NY, LLC to celebrate June as Caribbean American Heritage Month. The festival features: A Main Stage for national headliners and local bands; a Cultural Stage with traditional folk, oral presentations and up-coming artists; a Jerk Cook-off Pavilion, featuring top chefs, celebrities and participating restaurants, competing for cash and bragging rights; a Kids Zone offering interactive games and fun activities to keep the young ones busy all day. An extensive Food Village serving tasty Caribbean cuisine that's a destination in itself; and a vibrant Sponsor's Row with lots of giveaways and prizes.

The Gungo Walk World Alternative Music and Arts Festival returns from a one (1) year hiatus, with excitement brimming for this year's staging. The festival is known for its diverse offerings from all aspects of the arts to include music, dance, poetry, film, art, theater and its specialized attractions such as the Kids Village, Healing Pavillion and The Vendor Marketplace. Having its home at The Edna Manley College of The Visual and Performing Arts, Gungo Walk returns with high expectations from patrons and organizers alike. "The Gungo Walk Festival remains the only festival of its kind in Jamaica. We took a break last year, it was definitely missed and we're really happy to be back with renewed energy. We're looking out for new and different kinds of performers and bands and for the public to come and enjoy themselves on the day on September 3rd", said festival producer Michael Sean Harris. An all day family event with three stages, over twenty (20) performing acts and Armchair Rebelution, the headline event to close off; it's a day filled with quality production and entertainment. Come September 3, 2016 The Gungo Walk Festival will be "Celebrating The Global Beat In Jamaica". For more info email / Bookings / Booth Reservations Email: gungowalkfestival@gmail.com. Follow Gungo Walk: Facebook: www.facebook.com/GungoWalkFestival Instagram: @gungowalkfestival Twitter: @gungowalkfest

Now in its fourth year, the Burt Award for Caribbean Literature recognizes three English-language literary works for young adults (aged 12 through 18) written by Caribbean authors. A first prize of $10,000 CAD, a second prize of $7,000 CAD and a third prize of $5,000 CAD will be awarded to the winning authors. Publishers of winning titles will be awarded a guaranteed purchase of up to 2,000 copies, which will be donated to schools, libraries and literacy organizations throughout the region. To date, more than 15,000 copies of winning books have made their way into the hands of Caribbean youth. Published books, previously self-published books, and unpublished manuscripts are eligible for the award. Eligible books and unpublished manuscripts may be submitted to the Bocas Lit Fest by publishers registered and operating in the Caribbean. Unpublished manuscripts or previously self-published books may be submitted by authors directly to the Bocas Lit Fest. Books published between 1 November 2015 and 31 October 2016 and eligible manuscripts must be received at the office of the Bocas Lit Fest by 31 October 2016. For further details on the Burt Award for Caribbean Literature follow this link http://www.bocaslitfest.com/awards/burt-award-for-caribbean-literature/.

Four times Grammy Award-winner Leonard Albert Kravitz was born on May 26, 1964 in Manhattan, New York City, New York, the only child of actress Roxie Roker and Hollywood producer Sy Kravitz. His father was Jewish and his mother was of African-American and Afro-Bahamian ancestry. He started playing the drums and guitar at the age of five, influenced by his parents' love of R&B, jazz, classical, opera and blues. In Los Angeles, his mother encouraged him to join the California Boys Choir and Metropolitan Choir. In the late 1980 while pursuing his musical career in New York he met and married Lisa Bonet, who played Denise Huxtable on The Cosby Show. They had one child together, a daughter Zoe, but would divorce in 1993. He signed to Virgin in 1989, releasing his debut album "Let Love Rule" that same year. Just like one of his major early influences, Prince, Kravitz played nearly all the instruments on the album. "Let Love Rule" met mixed critical reviews. His second album, "Mama Said", released two years later, provided him with his major breakthrough. It reached the top 40 of the Billboard album chart, while the single "It Ain't Over Til It's Over" (influenced by his break up with Bonet) reached #2 in the singles charts. His third album "Are You Gonna Go My Way", released in 1994, earned a BRIT award for best international male artist. Following the release of "5" in 1998 and the single "Fly Away", Kravitz won the first of four Grammys for Best Male Vocal Rock Performance. He has also co-written and produced material for various artists such as Madonna, Vanessa Paradis, and Steven Tyler as well as performing on tracks for Michael Jackson, Mick Jagger, David Bowie and Jay Z. While probably best known for his musical career, Kravitz has appeared in a number of movies, most notably his screen debut Precious (2009) and most recently The Hunger Games (2012), in which he played the role of Cinna, the soft-spoken designer who turns Katniss Everdeen Jennifer Lawrence into a star. Kravitz had a supporting role in Precious (2009) director Lee Daniels' film, Lee Daniels' The Butler (2013), and reprised his role as Cinna in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013). Source: http://www.imdb.com/

Driven by kindness and killer ambition to change the world; The lovely Kerra Denel fiercely takes on plethora of opportunities to do so. From Serial Humanitarian, Print Model, Voice Talent, Event Planner (and the list goes on....) Miss Denel is refreshingly open with CEM about exploring, dreaming and discovering her life as she is well on her way to be one of the greatest Caribbean Cultural magnates of our time. The allurement of 'Mizz Kayz' is not only infectious but, extremely undeniable. With a following over 10k (that grows by the day), effortless incomparable beauty and a schedule that is consistently booked keeping up with Kerra is getting more exciting with every jet-setter Instagram post. "My purpose on earth is to make a positive impact and teach people the importance of BELIEF IN SELF". Born in Trinidad and raised in 'The 6' (Toronto, Canada) to African/Indian/Chinese Native Trinidadian parents - it was their influence (alongside her grandmother Miss Gloria)and a trip to a local Toronto Mas Camp and Panyard that created the passion and incentive for working in the Caribbean entertainment world. KD: I remember one afternoon my friend took me to visit a Mas camp, Calalloo and a Panyard, Afropan Steelband. This was the first time I was exposed to these environments in Canada and my life was changed as a result of this experience. My realization for how much I loved my Caribbean culture became more apparent. I was brought back to my roots, which in turn drove me to become a cultural ambassador. From there, I was compelled to further my passion in the entertainment industry with the main focus being the Caribbean. I worked with different Mas Bands, modeling and helping create magnificent pieces, and became a member of Afropan Steelband, which allowed me to play Steelpan music on the Carnival parade route. I also volunteered my time to help market the band and assist in coordinating a variety of events. With every coming year my involvement in the Caribbean community has grown tremendously and I continue to promote my culture worldwide. From then to now, Denel has been involved in countless of some of the most successful Caribbean events in our diaspora including but, not limited to: Colors Of The Caribbean (Florida) – Event Coordinator Carib Style Week (Florida) – Event Coordinator Spark The Conversation ( Toronto) - Event Planner Krave The Band – Launch (Barbados) – Event Coordinator Winterlicious – (New York) – Event Planner Inferno – (New York) – Event Planner TriniJungleJuice – (Canada) Team Lead Manager Day Dreams – (Toronto) - Host Xcapefest (Curacao) - Event Coordinator CEM: What prompted Kerra loves kids? KD: My grandmother Ms. Gloria was and continues to be the inspiration behind Kerra Loves Kids. She was widely known within her community as a loving and caring individual who gave from her heart to those in need; whether that need was financial or emotional, she gave with no expectations, just solely for the sheer joy and love for people. Sadly, granny departed our world in June, 2014. God called her home; it is my belief that her services and love for her fellowman was much more needed by Him. It was soon after, upon self-reflection and soul searching, I embarked on the journey to not only honor the memory of my grandmother, but also to strive to be a reflection of her. By founding Kerra Loves Kids, I am able to do just that. CEM: What was your first experience in being a humanitarian? KD: I travelled to New York City in my early teenage years and while walking through the airport I noticed an elderly woman who was crying and had the look of panic in her eyes. People were passing by as though she wasn’t even visible. I decided to stop and ask her what was wrong which is when I recognized she only spoke Spanish. Fortunately, I remembered a few words from my high school Spanish class and I was able to have basic communication with her. It turned out that she had lost her cell phone and it was her first time flying alone to the United States. She didn’t understand the process to exit the airport and was also frantic because she didn’t know how to reach her son who was picking her up for the first time. I escorted the lovely woman through security, assisted with getting her luggage and somehow managed to get a contact number for her son. I patiently waited with her until he arrived and when she saw him her expression instantly changed from sorrow to joy. Both her and her son could not stop thanking me for helping; she kissed me on my forehead over and over saying, “God bless you princesa.” That moment forever left an imprint in my heart because I realized that the smallest gesture can leave the biggest impact on a person’s day. CEM: What do you have coming up in 2016? KD: In April I embarked on a new phase of my life to further my event-coordinating career through working with Aifos Agency from Miami. I recently began another business venture, KERR 4U under the company It Works. My plan is to help individuals live a healthier lifestyle and provide them with an option to have financial freedom. I am looking to grow my not-for-profit organization Kerra Loves Kids in the Caribbean and continue to influence the lives of those children who are less fortunate. I will be maintaining my involvement with Krave The Band, Team Soca and OC Events NYC in New York through a number of projects. My business partner and I have held a few Krush events in NYC and our ultimate goal is to expand our events across the globe. As I continue to grow my own personal brand, I will be taking advantage of modeling/hosting/voiceover opportunities locally and internationally. I plan to utilize my talents and align myself with all available avenues that allow m to become the strong, independent, business woman that I strive to be. It is important to me to always invest in myself, so over the next few months I will be attending personal development seminars to further my knowledge and elevate my mind. Aside from the business aspect of my life, I strongly believe in absorbing the world around us while finding inspiration through travel; meeting new people and experiencing different cultures. Two of my favorite mottos that I live by are “Life begins outside of your comfort zone” and “I’d rather try and fail than fail to try.” With such a busy schedule we all want to know when the does this combination of beauty, brains & business have time to relax and how does she look so amazing doing it. She puts CEM onto her most rated beauty regiments such as: KD: - I wash my face every morning/night and moisturize thoroughly with Aveeno - I keep my skin radiant by using It Works exfoliating peel twice a week - I always remove my makeup with aloe vera cleansing wipes - I never go outside without sunblock (minimum spf 30 year round) - I brush white sugar on my lips ever so often to get rid of chapped skin (especially in the winter) then follow-up with Vaseline - I wash my hair once a week and put leave in conditioner or coconut oil - Mani/Pedi once every two weeks - I get 8 hours of rest every night " I want to create the life I deserve to live... I want to live a rich life. Rich in health. Rich in family. Rich in knowledge. Rich in adventure. Rich in laughter. Rich in love." And her list of hobbies is just as long as her achievements - including: Traveling ;Listening to music; Dancing; Cooking; Watching movies; Volunteering Blogging; Reading; Sports – basketball and soccer; and Photography CEM: What is your favorite place back home? Why? KD: Pigeon Point Beach, Tobago is one of nature’s simple treasures. Every time I visit this beach, it stimulates my mind and cleanses my heart and soul. I honestly believe in a past life I was a mermaid, because there’s something about being in/by the ocean that makes me feel connected to it. It’s unexplainable but it leaves me with a feeling of complete peace and happiness. No worries in the world, just pure bliss! Possessing the traits of her Libra scale., Kerra is only just beginning in her efforts to let nations and generations know, indeed, "SHE WAS HERE" CEM:I want to be remembered as ..... KD: I want to be remembered as a woman who was a giver of love and someone who was full of life; an individual who supported and uplifted others and inspired them to find strength within themselves to do the impossible. Someone who was kind and made others feel good even if it was just a smile. CEM: Being a Trinidadian Woman is (ONE WORD) KD: Exhilarating! This article is dedicated to the memory of Kerra's grandmother Ms Gloria, who passed away in June 2 years ago.

It is said that the mark of good MC is one who can deliver an impactful opening, introduce all featured speakers, keep an audience’s attention and maintain a steady flow of an event. Within the last year, Trinidadian Damian Sogren has been seamlessly doing these and creating unforgettable experiences as an entertainer but also as a creative brand advocate. After completing work surrounding his native island’s annual Carnival celebrations, the MC, actor, media professional and business presenter has been using his abilities to inform and energize various audiences as well as to connect them with major international brands. In recent months, Damian worked with electronic sports and video gaming giants PlayStation and WorldGaming when he served as host of the North-American Street Fighter 5 Regional. He also worked with Canada’s sole N.B.A. Franchise team, The Toronto Raptors and used his theatre and improv background to truly engage and electrify the crowds at the Raptors games screening experience events during the team’s N.B.A. playoffs appearances. Additionally, Damian got the opportunity to also represent mainstream brands such as Canadian movie theatre chain Cineplex and professional sports company Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd. With regards to his recent work experiences Damian shared, “It has always been a pleasure of mine to entertain and bring joy and excitement to people. I am blessed to have received these opportunities for alignment with these prestigious entities and to be able to inject some Caribbean flavour into these mainstream settings.” Even amidst receiving unique opportunities to benefit both clients and attendees at these high profile gigs, Damian still makes time to lend his talent to non-profit causes and recently was MC for the event “Battle for Blood” which was a fundraising initiative for the Leukaemia and Lymphoma Society. Ahead of an upcoming summer season filled with various cultural, festival and corporate event commitments, Damian now focusses on combining his business, PR and performance background for business presenting and being a brand spokesperson for products, services and causes at international tradeshows. This Caribbean dynamo aspires to not only bring cultures together but to bring brands and people together via creative communication and his gift of entertainment. For bookings and interviews please contact: nuconceptcc@gmail.com Follow Damian on social media via Facebook: www.facebook.com/DamianSogrenEnt/ and Instagram: www.instagram.com/damiansogrenent/

In 2014, she released the wonderful, 'Love Language' and now she is back to release her new reggae single entitled 'You're The Reason REMIX that features upcoming singer, Messiah's. The original track and production was done by Trinidad based label, JahLight Records which was apart of their compilation album, the Jehovah Riddim. On hearing the original track a producer which is also apart of Excellent's family, Mr Joey Allert, decided to take it one step further as he thought it was fit enough for a remix. He started to experiment with the riddim and came up with something very unique. On hearing it JahLight Records CEO was impressed and decided that it was a start of something great. The engineering aspect of the work was given to Transic Music's very own Koen Duncan (artist and producer), who dealt with the mixing of the new production plus the mixing over of the vocals. Now here we have it; polished and refined and ready to hit the road. This brand new track by Excellent was released on all major digital outlets on Friday 3rd June, 2016 by the highly acclaimed, 21st Hapilos. We thank you for your continued support and we hope you enjoy this new reggae track. Blessings. Excellent Feat Messiah's - You're The Reason Remix https://soundcloud.com/jahlightrecords/excellent-feat-messiahs-youre-the-reason-remix