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Chia is becoming a very popular superfood in Trinidad and Tobago, but many people don’t know about all of its benefits or how to use it. Chia seeds are an ancient grain used by the Aztec and Mayans. In fact, “chia” is a Mayan word meaning strength. Chia seeds provide some of the best sources of fiber and are high in natural antioxidant compounds such as beta carotene. They are high in calcium, proteins and fatty acids. The addition of chia seeds helps control hunger and leave you feeling full, faster, which makes them the perfect addition to someone’s diet who is looking to lose weight. But where, and how, can you use chia? Nutritionist and KitchenAid consultant, Maria Calle, shares one of the most delicious ways to enjoy this trendy superfood. Chia seeds are the perfect companion to a smoothie, according to Maria Calle. With its minimal flavor, chia seeds will boost nutritional content and create a creamy gel giving your smoothie a unique consistency. The gel is what leaves the body feeling fuller longer because the fiber converts the starches to sugars slower. Chia seeds are also perfect for smoothies since they have no flavor. The only thing that will change is the texture of the ingredients. Now, Maria Calle shares her secret recipe for feeling great, with a delicious smoothie. Creamy Fruit Smoothie with Chia Seed Pudding Recipe Instructions: For the Chia Pudding: 6 tablespoons of Chia Seeds (dry) 1 cup of Almond Milk 2 teaspoons of Vanilla Extract ½ teaspoon of Cinnamon Powder (or 2 sticks) Stevia to taste Steps: In a bowl, mix all of the ingredients together until all of the chia seeds are completely soaked. Leave the bowl with all of the ingredients in the refrigerator overnight (minimum 3 hours). For the Creamy Fruit Smoothie: 3 Frozen Bananas 1 Cup of Frozen Red Fruits (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries to taste) 1/8 cup of Water Steps: Peel and Cut the frozen bananas in 3 large pieces Put the banana pieces, frozen fruits and water in the KitchenAid® Magnetic Blender jar Lock the Jar into the base and place the dial on the Smoothie function. Press play. The Magnetic Blender will turn off automatically when the smoothie is at the ideal smoothie consistency. For presentation, place the Chia Pudding at the base of your cup of choice. Then, on top of the Chia Pudding, place a layer of the Creamy Fruit Smoothie, followed by another layer of Chia Pudding. To decorate, you can fresh fruit on top. Enjoy!

Number One Hit, featuring Arthur, is the follow up single to The Mecca's high energy and very successful track ZOOM ZOOM which has been featured in 3 U.S. television drama series on VH1, Fox and ABC Family. This new release further exhibits The Mecca's unique sound which incorporates strong EDM elements fused with his Hip-Hop approach and Pop vocal tones all wrapped beautifully with his Caribbean influences. An enthralling mix of adrenaline pumping bass, explosive synths and pop culture references enveloped in a well delivered EDM sound, The Mecca's Number One Hit is a brightly flavored dance track which likens his leading lady to the compelling melodies and infectious rhythm of a smash hit song. This single can fit perfectly in a playlist comprising tracks from Pitbull, Flo Rida, Bombs Away and LMFAO. The Mecca, formerly Young Mecca, hailing from the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, has taken off in a musical flight through the universe of Hip Hop, Pop, Electro and Dance. As likely to be inspired by Jay-Z or Michael Jackson as he is by Pitbull and Flo Rida, The Mecca will surely move your head, your heart and entire body. The Mecca is party, emotional and hustle music. Raised on a solid diet of Hip Hop, R&B, Dancehall and Soca music, The Mecca, a musical sponge to this day, embraces all the technology that modern music has to offer. This gives him the ability to articulate and augment any possible influence through his very own unique sensibility, and is just as exciting to see live as he is to hear through a stereo system or computer speakers. On top of his distinctive charisma and unique delivery, The Mecca is also an exceptional lyricist who has had noted success in the music industry. In 2014 and 2015 his single ZOOM ZOOM was featured in VH1's "Single Ladies," Fox's "Red Band Society” and ABC Family's "Chasing Life" while his single FLAT STOMACH was the premiere single at the 2014 Labo Ethnik Fashion & Lifestyle week in Paris. In August 2015 The Mecca embarked on a promotional tour of the US which brought him to perform at various venues in Brooklyn, Staten Island, Miami and Santa Monica.

Trinidad and Tobago-based hit house Optimus Productions TT brings sweet reggae music all night long with the SunDown Riddim, now available worldwide from all major digital retailers (released on April 8, 2016), from FOX FUSE. The album receives a coveted feature on the iTunes U.S. Reggae New Music chart, during its week of release. The six-track compilation showcases local Trinidad and Tobagonian reggae stars and shines an international spotlight on the rich reggae scene there. Black Diamond expresses his feelings in “In Your Eyes,” ISasha reminisces with “Helping Hand,” Zebulun takes on love in “She Loves Me,” M.A.N. discusses life in “What A Morning,” and Cournel lends insight with “Living Rastaman.” Optimus Productions TT was founded in 2013 and is based in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago. Producer Jesse John creates all genres but primarily focuses on native Trinidadian sounds, which influences can be heard mixed with the one-drop reggae style of the SunDown Riddim. TRACK LIST: 1. Black Diamond - In Your Eyes 2. ISasha - Helping Hand 3. Zebulun - She Loves Me 4. M.A.N. (Mature and Natural) - What A Morning 5. Cournel - Living Rastaman 6. Optimus Productions TT - SunDown Riddim (Instrumental)

Trinidadian Gospel sensation Rizon delivers a new song to remind us “Who Got This,” available worldwide from all major digital retailers on April 15, 2016, with pre-order available now, from FOX FUSE. Written by Rizon, “Who Got This” includes additional vocals by Sherieta Lewis, keys by Reuel Lynch and guitar by James “Jessey” Joseph. It was produced byPrecision Productions and includes an upbeat melody with inspirational lyrics to motivate and inspire listeners. Shane “Rizon” Gibson has been making his name in the Gospel reggae world for over eight years now. His music presents Spirit-led messages packed in sweet Caribbean music and reflects his deepest convictions and moves his listeners, musically and spiritually. “So many people live life defeated,” states Rizon.“Challenging situations can overwhelm people. This song is a reminder of who is in charge. It doesn’t matter what you’re going through - stay calm, have faith and remember WHO GOT THIS.” Listen to “Who Got This” Cconnect with Rizon at facebook.com/rizonmusic,instagram.com/rizonmusic and twitter.com/rizonmusic.

Trinidadian soca star Olatunji teams with Nigerian stunner Runtown for the new Afrosoca smash “Oh Yay (Remix),” now available worldwide from all major digital retailers (released on April 8, 2016), from FOX FUSE. Pulsating with a rich fusion of Caribbean and African sounds, this gem incorporates African drum beats with soca rhythms, making for the ultimate Caribbean-African crossover hit, which has been heartily embraced by folks across both regions. The original version “Oh Yay” was featured on the iTunes U.S. Reggae New Music chart during its week of release and was the most popular soca track for the 2016 Trinidad Carnival season. Its audio-only video has racked up over two million views to date and continues to garner more each day. The tune was also the highlight of a feature article in US-based music magazine The Fader (dated February 25, 2016), which placed a mainstream spotlight on Olatunji and named him as the frontrunner of the Afrosoca movement. This fitting collaboration with Runtown further cements Olatunji as soca the face of the Afrosoca. Produced by soca hit houses Stadic Music and Wetty-Beatz Productions, this remix puts the perfect spin on the original track, blending Runtown’s native African flair with Olatunji’s Caribbean mastery. “Oh Yay (Remix)” will also be featured onOlatunji’s upcoming album Awakening, available soon globally from FOX FUSE.

Kingston, Jamaica - Making his mark and crafting his name by playing the hits at one of Jamaica's top station ZJ Liquid and appearing on worldwide platform such as BET, ZJ Liquid also boasts the title of producer and artist. A Fan favorite by giving music lovers an array of hit productions, Liquid's prolific lyrics as an artist are only matched by his charisma and humbleness His latest anticipated musical offering "Msquared" has already created a strong buzz and fans eagerly await the April 15th worldwide release distributed by 21st Hapilos DIgital. Speaking on the album, Liquid explained the thought process, creation and inspiration. "Msquared is the name of the album, it's an album I've been working on for almost a year and a half. And it's just a project that I always had in mind, a project where it's not a juggling, all the songs on the same riddim. It's an album putting together some of Jamaica's best artists and make a link with the international world as well, do as much fusing as I could at this time. It's a compilation album and I myself have 2 songs on it. Msquared is a vibe, one of those things you want to do different as a producer. I've been producing for the past 10 years and this is definitely different, fusing different genres that I've been exposed to. There is a little Afrobeat, EDM vibe, a little trap and skrillex, soca undertones and of course the hardcore dancehall and reggae vibe. Msquared name comes from my son and my daughter i put the 2 names together." The star studded album features such artists as Grammy award winners Sean Paul and Beenie Man who teamed up with newcomer Vershon, international stars Vybz Kartel, Mr.Vegas, Konshens and Samantha J with Assassin, and rapper Safaree aka Stunman among a host of stars "It's not nothing that I've done before. Big up Johnny Wonder he saw the dream and supported me. Bless up everyone involved in project like Jam2, we really work on the album to take it to another level, Jam2 give thanks for him that's Jammys son that. Thanks to Chimney Records for the Samantha track, thanks my cousin who helped with the Konshens and Vegas, TQ in Canada, shout out to Stainless Karim. I linked up with nuff' people, Bless up to everyone who showed support and love and put a strength to H20 records. Big up all who believes in music, all genres, no box, One Love One Unity, check it out, April 16th the album Msquared" - Liquid Msquared Track Listing Samantha J & Agent Sasco "Wine You Want" Demarco "Collin" Safaree "One Time" Konshens "Action" Sean Paul "High Yes" Gyptian "YOu Are The One" Beenie Man & Vershon "Fresh 2 Death" Mr.Vegas "Caribbean Party" Mink Jo & Konshens "Rappa Pam Pam" Vybz Kartel "Forever" Kabaka Pyramid "Armageddon" Stylo G "Face Off" I Octane "Money" Jah Vinci "Mamma" Kalado "Fuego" Ishawna & Safaree "Try My Love" ZJ Liquid "Without You" ZJ Liquid & Delly Ranx "Straight Vibes"

Are you visiting Trinidad and Tobago and needs to know where to get some of the best local food on the Islands? Look no further, we have come up with a list of some of the best places to dine. The Coffee Shop This place is a little jewel in central Castara; known mostly for their delicious homemade ice cream, breakfast, and fantastic iced coffee. Make sure to try their coconut bakes and the BBQ on Saturday nights is a must!! Where: Northside Roaf, Castara, Tobago BUZO Osteria Italiana Located in Port of Spain BUZO is known for its exceptional food and fine dining ambiance whether it’s indoors or outdoors. Looking for somewhere affordable to take someone special, then this is the place. Make sure to order a pizza. Where: 6 Warner Street | Newtown, Port of Spain, Trinidad Telephone:1 868 223 2896 The Fish Pot In the mood for some of the best fish meals in town, this is the place to be. The meals are European with a Caribbean flavour. Crab cakes lovers’ paradise. Where: Pleasant Prospect | Grafton Road, Black Rock, Tobago Telephone:1868 635 1728 The Seahorse Inn “Beautiful Setting and Great Food” that should the tagline for the Seahorse Inn. The Seahorse Restaurant is a high end restaurant overlooking the sea in Courland Bay offering a good selection of food. Where: Old Grafton Beach Road, Tobago Richard's Shark and Bake This is restaurant is highly recommended by locals. The lines are always long but it’s worth the wait. The shark is always perfectly fried and their excellent variety of sauces, condiments and veggies to top off your bake & shark sandwich. Where: N Coast Rd | Maracas Bay Village, Trinidad Shirvan Watermill Restaurant Their menu selections included vegetarian, chicken, lamb, fish, beef, and duck. Even though a little pricey, the food and service make up for the price. Where: Shirvan Road | Mt Pleasant, 1, Tobago El Pecos This is a buffet restaurant with traditional Trinidadian foods. You build your own plate and pay by the pound. They have a covered eating area outside or you can take it to go. Definitely worth a try. Where: Ariapita Avenue | Woodbrook, Port of Spain, Trinidad Aioli The food at Aioli is truly delicious with amazing presentations. It is a little pricey, but for the quality, it’s worth it. Their Thai Shrimp is to die for! Where: Ellerslie Plaza- Bossiere Village, Port of Spain, Trinidad Chaud Excellent gourmet food with a Caribbean flavor. When you visit CHAUD you are always sure to be treated to a distinctive culinary experience. Don't know what to try, go for the seafood soups and seafood paella excellent! Where: 6 Nook Avenue | St. Anns, Port of Spain, Trinidad La Cantina Pizza lovers, this is the place to be. Very tasty pizza made of fresh ingredients in an authentic wood fire oven. You can sit and enjoy the pizza making process as they cook the pizza right in front of you Everything is delicious.. Where: Milford Road, Crown Point, Tobago

As Black girls, we know that the images placed in front of us as children seldom represent our culture and if we want to be see, we'll probably have to create them ourselves. That's exactly what artist St. Vincentian artist Karissa C did with her "My Creole FairyTale" series. She reimagined some of the most beloved Disney princesses to include nods to "African/Caribbean culture." On her Instagram she says, "Growing up, I always imagined what it would be like if the girls in the Fairytales looked like me. So when I imagined them, they always had my favourite elements of MY Culture (which I am so proud of) too!" Take a look at the gorgeous images below Source

Named after the nickname of Grenada, the Spice Isle, the property remains one of the most respected brands on the island to this day, and is often host to important figures and celebrities. The hotel describes itself as “a place of unpretentious luxury” and it actually delivers upon that claim with its immaculately kept grounds, beautiful rooms, and effortlessly chic decor. The award-winning Spice Island Beach Resort features 64 elegantly-appointed suites, the full-service Janissa’s Spa, a Cybex® fitness center, Oliver’s beachside gourmet restaurant, the Sea & Surf Terrace for light lunches, the Sea & Surf Bar for refreshing cocktails throughout the day, a central swimming pool with swim-up whirlpool, an Omnicourt® tennis court, the Nutmeg Podchildren’s activity center, the Gatsby Boutique and more. Spice Island Beach Resort is a proud recipient of the 2014 Six Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences and was ranked the # 1 property in the Caribbean by TripAdvisor according to traveler reviews in 2013. The resort has also received Virgin Holidays' Gold Award as the #1 property in its exclusive worldwide Platinum Collection for nine consecutive years from 2006-2014. Spice Island Beach Resort has been recognized with the Condé Nast Johansens 2011 & 2013 Most Excellent Service Award & the 2012 Most Excellent Resort for the Atlantic, Caribbean & Pacific Islands. Spice Island Beach Resort is a proud member of the esteemed Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) collection and the first and only resort in Grenada to be featured in the exclusive Virtuoso network's Hotels & Resorts Program and Signature Hotels & Resorts Collection. The Beach Spice Island's property boasts a quarter-mile of beachfront on the famous two-mile long Grand Anse beach. Grand Anse is the most popular beach on the island, so its far from an isolated getaway here. There is a good amount of foot traffic on the sand, from both local vendors selling wares and guests from other nearby resorts. (The beachfront suites do provide a private lounging area.) If a quiet, private-island-like beach is a top priority, guests may want to check out the nearby and more affordable Laluna Hotel. Grand Anse is immaculate, though, with calm, clear blue waters and plenty of room to go around. Spice Island provides comfortable, padded lounge chairs and beach umbrellas for guests.

The name Bryan Art describes a witty songwriter, meticulous producer, renowned guitarist and multifaceted artist specializing in music with a positive message. A graduate of the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts where he majored in guitar (Caribbean Latin American & Jazz Studies), Bryan first came to prominence as a guitarist and touring member of the Legendary Fire House Band. With Firehouse, Bryan gained immeasurable experience, supporting top flight Artistes including Luciano, Mikey General and Sizzla for several years and later with Bushman as band leader and guitarist of his Grass Roots Band. The multi-dimensional Bryan Art who in his college years, balanced guitar duties with photography and graphic art, also spent invaluable time teaching music in Jamaican Schools. He took the bold decision to add a further dimension as recording Artiste and in 2001, released his first single titled Soon Come Back, produced by himself and Courtney Morrison for FIWI Music Label. He would later go on to record and release several hits including Rock and Come In in 2004 and Get It in 2005 that would go a far way in making Bryan Art a household name. Since becoming more devoted to a career as a recording artiste, he has been named Best New Artiste for the year 2002 by ER (Entertainment Report) on TVJ and has given outstanding performances on several local and international shows including Jamaica. Jazz and Blues, Rebel Salute, ATI, Fully Loaded, St. Mary Mi Come From ,Unity Splash, and several Reggae Month events, among others. His international appearances include extensive tours of the Caribbean, the United States, Canada and Europe. As a prolific and witty songwriter he has penned songs for Artistes such as Etana, George Nooks, Singing Melody, Bushman, and Luciano, and has also been the creator of numerous instrumental tracks receiving local and international penetration. In 2012, Bryan Art registered his record label, Junction Files Muzik his first major step to creating an independent organizational structure. Later in 2013 he decided to seek a new management team in order to execute his reenergized vision . He has assembled a group of young , skilled and talented local musicians who are now known as the File 13 Band which , as a unit has been supporting Bryan Art live performances and winning over the hearts of local and international music lovers. He also released his self-titled album in April 2013, making it an overall productive year. Born in St. Ann, Jamaica, Bryan Grant, recalls playing the guitar before the tender age of eight. His keen interest in music was ignited by his eldest brother, but it was his mother who taught him his first three primary chords on which he learned to improvise and build for years to come. His major sources of inspiration continue to be, Dennis Brown, Beres Hammond, Toots Hibbert as well as Stevie Wonder and Al Green. Today Bryan Art continues to bring a fresh voice, image and attitude to the industry gaining him thousands of fans as well as the respect of the music fraternity. He is a multifaceted artist, husky voiced singer, witty songwriter and consummate musician who delivers with passion, meaning and always a message. Bryan Art is poised for greatness 2016 & beyond, he is labeled "The top emerging Artistes of 2016" with one of the best voices in Reggae music today.

Ethiopian/swedish soul artist Daniel Lemma teams up with Scandinavias top-ranking reggae musicians, Hot This Year Band (U Brown, Million Stylez, Norris Man, Etzia, Lutan Fyah and many more) to release his 7th album. The result is a collection of 10 timeless songs performed in an authentic style, from ska and rocksteady to roots reggae and rub-a-dub. The first single and video, “Mr Hibbert”, pays tribute to one of the heroes and founders of reggae music, the legendary singer Toots Hibbert, as well as the golden era of reggae music he has come to represent. The song, as well as the forthcoming album, is produced by Patrik ”Partillo” Alexanderss on whose previous collaborations includes Collie Buddz, Lutan Fyah, Yellowman, Chronixx, Jah Vinci, Jaqee and more. Full-length album ”Common Ground” will be released on April 27.

Featured on the 90s Don Dada Riddim among Grammy-award winner Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and Konshens among other notables of dancehall and reggae music, Hot Like You" is now available on all major online digital stores such as iTunes distributed by 21st Hapilos Digital.