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Guests celebrated the work of talented local photographers at the grand opening of the 2014 Heritage Photo Exhibition this past Saturday. The Exhibition showcased photography exploring different dimensions of heritage from the 2014 Heritage Photo Contest, which was created by Les Fruits de Mer as a way to spotlight local heritage and photographers, and also to inspire public conversation around the island’s unique heritage. Lagoonies Bistro & Bar was transformed into a temporary exhibition space, with custom-built hanging panels that displayed an array of breathtaking imagery and thought-provoking artists’ statements about heritage. Attendees admired the work, enjoyed sharing memories inspired by the exhibits, and voted for the Erika Cannegieter-Smith People’s Choice Award, a $100 prize which honors the founder of Be the Change SXM. Les Fruits de Mer President Jenn Yerkes says, “This contest and exhibition was developed as a partnership between Les Fruits de Mer and Be the Change SXM. We wanted this award to be a way to salute Erika's amazing legacy to the island and its people.” In a close competition with over 80 votes cast at the Exhibition, this year’s Erika Cannegieter-Smith People’s Choice Award was won by Nathalie Beaurain, with a pair of photos featuring flamboyant flowers (her entry can be seen at http://www.lesfruitsdemer.com/nathalie-beaurain/). The honor was announced at the Exhibition’s award ceremony, where prizes were awarded to the winners of the overall and youth categories, Alexandre Guerre and Luna Valenti. Selections from the Exhibition will remain on display this week at Lagoonies. Any schools or other organizations interested in displaying panels from the Exhibition can contact Les Fruits de Mer at info@lesfruitsdemer.org. The all of the entries are featured online at: http://www.lesfruitsdemer.com/category/vibrant-and-vulnerable/. About Les Fruits de Mer Les Fruits de Mer is a non-profit association based in St. Martin whose core mission is to raise awareness about nature, culture, and sport. The organization carries out this mission through publications, an education program, and special public outreach events that entertain, inspire, and inform. The Association is currently accepting new member applications on its website, http://www.lesfruitsdemer.com. About Be the Change SXM Be The Change Foundation, registered in May 2012, is a charity fundraising group that assists St. Maarten non-profit organizations with raising the monies needed for a particular cause while also promoting the mission and objectives of that NGO (non-governmental organization) to encourage volunteerism.

The 24th annual Miss Caraïbes Hibiscus pageant was held at Casino Royale in St. Maarten. Saturday, December 6, 2014. The pageant saw girls from all over the Caribbean, North America and some South American countries tried to persuade the judges that they had what it takes to be this year's Miss Caraïbes Hibiscus Crown. Miss Jamaica World Model 2014, Regina Harding was Jamaica’s representative and did the nation proud. She walked away with the award of Miss Amity and wore an Evening gown from Uzuri International that won the best Evening Gown Award. She was officially placed 2nd Runner up. Miss Colombia, Maria Lopez was crowned the winner and Miss Mexico, Karla Hernandez was 1st Runner up. Regina is very proud as this marks Jamaica’s highest placing since Rachel Stuart won in 1993. She returns to the island on Wednesday.

Rita Marley has launched a new cookbook of her favorite Marley recipes that are perfect for the holidays. The book dubbed Harambe For The Holidays: Vibrant Holiday Cooking with Rita Marley contains soulful meals, simple snacks, festive drinks and vibrant desserts. Some of the recipes in Harambe for the Holidays use the Herb for the Healing of the Nation. There's a step-by-step guide for creating "Green Oil" that you can use in the specially marked recipes in this book. She also uses Green Oil in your favourite holiday recipes! From homemade hot cocoas and sorrel drinks to coconut cut cake and gingerbread truffles to a full Ethiopian holiday feast, Harambe for the Holidays is filled with inspiration to create delightful and healthy meals and treats for all of your holiday parties and gatherings. Sorrel recipe from the Harambe for the Holidays The book is available for purchase on Amazon.com.

Etana 'The Strong One' became the first Jamaican female artiste in 20 years to hit #1 on Billboard Charts since Diana King and Patra. Her 'I RISE' album produced by the accomplished music Producer Clive Hunt, instrumentalist, composer and arranger is number one on Billboard Reggae Chart and follows Etana'scritically-acclaimed albums Better Tomorrow (2013), Free Expressions (2011) and The Strong One (2008). The Jamaican singer-songwriter's melodic power blended with Hunt's rich arrangements, set this album apart as one of the best throughout her stellar career (South Florida Caribbean News) The latest effort from the soulful Reggae songbird is without question her best and most mature album to date. To celebrate the long awaited release, Irish and Chin and VP Records have teamed up to host the official 'I Rise Album Release Party' at the legendary SOB's (New York, New York), Monday, November 17, 2014. Etana will take center stage in the famed venue to deliver a stellar performance. Reggae music fans and/or all in attendance will experience the ultimate live show and soak in the vibes of an up-close and personal set by Etana as she covers the outstanding music featured on her album. The performance will also include a special 'horn section' according to a release. Etana's album is a classical collection of love ballads and roots anthems. With her poised assurance and new found strength, she evolves spiritually, mentally, emotionally and musically. Whether she shedding light on the harsh ghetto realities on 'Trigger,' 'Ward 21 (Stenna's Song)' and 'How Long,' conveying romantic longings on 'Richest Girl,' 'Love Song,' and 'By Your Side' or expressing her deep-rooted spirituality on the exquisite Bob Marley remake of 'Selassie is The Chapel,' the Marcia Griffith's cover of 'Stepping Out Of Babylon,' 'Emancipation' and 'On My Way' - each of the album's tracks is delivered with her soulful conviction. Producer Clive Hunt who has worked with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan Peter Tosh, Rolling Stones, The Wailers, Grace Jones and Jimmy Cliff, arranged an all-star team of island's musicians to contribute to the set that includes Sly Dunbar, Robbie Shakespeare, Grub Cooper, Handel Tucker and Dean Fraser. Etana continues her U.S. tour with Cocoa Tea, spreading her positive vibrations to major cities. Source:NIPnews:

Nominations for the 57th annual Grammy Awards were announced by The Recording Academy on Friday. The list of Caribbean nominees are; Nicki Minaj "Anaconda," for Best Rap Song, joining her in the category are; "Bound 2," Kanye West & Charlie Wilson; "i," Kendrick Lamar; "We Dem Boyz," Wiz Khalifa and "0 to 100/The Catch Up," Drake In the Best Reggae Album, Ziggy Marley “Fly Rasta”; Lee "Scratch" Perry, Back on the Controls; Sean Paul, Full Frequency; Shaggy, Out of Many, One Music; Sly & Robbie & Spicy Chocolate, The Reggae Power and Soja, Amid the Noise and the Haste If Ziggy Marley wins in this category this will be his 7th win, with is first back in 1998. Also in 1999 Shaggy won his first Grammy for his platinum selling album Boombastic and has been nominated 5 times for a Grammy Award. In 2004 Sean Paul also won a Grammy for the album Dutty Rock with an overall 4 times Grammy nomination. Sly and Robbie have also won themselves a Grammy in 1999 for the album Friends. Both Lee 'Scratch' Perry and SOJA are first time nominees. SOJA is an American reggae and dub band based in Arlington, Virginia. Their album, Amid the Noise and the Haste features Damian Marley, J. Boog and Collie Buddz and has topped the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. SOJA Over all in the Grammy nomination Beyoncé leads with six Grammy nods, giving her a total of 53 for her career making her the most-nominated female artist in history. Also joining in her in the lead are Taylor Swift, Sam Smith and U2 Newcomer Smith equaled Beyoncé with six nominations. His nominations were in the big three with: album record and song of the year; best new artist, best pop solo performance and best pop vocal album. "Stay with Me" was picked for both record and song of the year. The Grammy Awards ceremony will be held at the Staples Centre, Los Angeles on February 8, 2015.

Reggae recording artist Nesbeth is on the road to victory. ˜Taste Victory' is his first single off his recently released EP titled "Victory" for the UK based Entertainment Soul label. The song chants hope for the future, whilereminiscing on the harsh past. The video stylishly portrays the theme of the single by depicting the reggae star as a boxer, who is staged in the ring to battle with his negative past self. The star is victorious and the sweet melodic chorus is sung over & over again, "now I can taste victory". The video is currently garnering exposure from numerous media outlets and most recently was picked up by MTV Iggy. MTV Iggy is a division of Viacom Media Networks, focused on bringing cutting -edge global music and pop culture to the U.S. "Taste Victory" video can be seen on MTV Iggy and has received quite a few hits since its post on the site several days ago. Directed by Jamaican music video specialist RD Studios, it is the artist himself who is credited with the visual concept. "I wanted to portray to those that live with self doubt, that personal achievement is often only held back by this negative internal struggle and that it must be overcome to fully flourish" said Nesbeth. On the subject of the video getting picked up by world famous station he continued "It is an honor to have my video apart of the brand MTV Iggy and among a diverse group of musicians. I see this as an opportunity receive exposure to a new audience and gain new fans". Nesbeth is currently promoting his EP "Victory", which has just received a stellar review from prominent website Reggaeville, and look forward to his upcoming performance on Rebel Salute.

Have Faith Productions has begun shooting Sons 2 The Grave in Atlanta Georgia. The emotional and gritty film from Canadian Author/ Writer and Producer Lynne Stoltz is directed by Actor/Director, Mykelti Williamson (Forrest Gump, Con Air, Heat, 24, Justified and Nashville). After midnight on a bridge not linking neighborhoods but dividing them, eighteen year old Basketball Phenom Marcus Jennings was taken out. Friends remain silent, giving power to a killer, binding them for life. Celebrity attracts the good the bad and the ugly, not always clearly defined, but in the end, it was what they all had in common that ended Marcus’s life ... fear. Fear of staying, fear of leaving and the fear of appearing weak. It’s the choices we make. Sons 2 The Grave stars, Actor Darrin Dewitt Henson (Stomp The Yard, Soul Food), Actor and Atlantic Records Recording Artist, Trevor Jackson (Disney Channel original movie, Let It Shine, Cold Case, Hit The Floor, Criminal Minds, Love & Hip Hop), NAACP Image Award Winner, Justin Martin (The Soloist with Jamie Foxx, Flight, with Denzel Washington, High School Musical 3, A Raisin In The Sun, Blue Bloods, Cold Case) Marie Howell ( Devious Maids, The Blind Side, Addicted) Demetria McKinney ( House Of Payne, Real Housewives Of Atlanta)Brad James (Tyler Perry's For Better or Worse) and introducing Messiah Harris (T.I. and Tiny: The Family Hustle). "We're born sons and we die sons, somewhere in between is the story"

Jamaican born Fashion Designer Carmichael Byfield, is a double award winning designer and owner of the luxury fashion brand 'House of Byfield'. He currently resides in the Netherlands, where he continues to represent Jamaica and the entire Caribbean globally with exclusive fashionable shows and production. His passion for designing men’s clothes started at an early age, when designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Moschino who in1994 produced flower-printed menswear that inspired him. Having trained in Jamaica and New York, Carmichael designer’s hands started itching again when he moved to the Netherlands. In 2011 Carmichael started designing for himself and then later focusing on men’s clothes, which leads to the inception of “House of Byfield” which can be described as discreet and elegant wear with an eye for detail and a sportive touch. Carmichael mostly works with light fabrics in asymmetrical layers, so it falls beautifully and naturally on the body. His ‘daywear suits’ are for men who dare to dress well and still aren’t afraid to use color. In June 2014 Carmichael was awarded in Washington, DC in recognition for remarkable contributions to the Caribbean Fashion. Also in October, was awarded in Rotterdam, Netherlands for Extraordinary Achievement The Carmichael Byfield Design has been in approximately {87} International publications in different fashion magazines. He will continue to aim high and represent the Caribbean. Carmichael Byfield a man with a limitless vision. House of Byfield COLLECTION Credits for the shoot: Photographer: Hans Bolten Stylist/Designer: Carmichael Byfield Mua/Hair-Stylist: Carla Stroijckens Models: Leon Dewman, Thomas Toonen, Fabian von Gelder & Valerie Verhaar.

Rising international music sensation, MonChérie, continues her quest for recognition as one of this generation's most dynamic young music artists. After her music debut earlier this year, which unleashed the major hit single, "No Santa," the singer has followed up that effort with her heavily awaited and equally energetic new song, "Billy Billy Boom Boom." The 20-year-old St. Lucian songstress is on the last leg of a busy 2014 campaign that showcased a unique musical infusion of reggae/dancehall, pop and R&B. Her magnetic persona and sultry voice has captured the attention of industry insiders across the U.S. and the Caribbean and most have little doubt of her potential for super stardom. "My goal is to bring hot music and a new sound to the industry," said MonChérie, who sites Jamaican dancehall trailblazers Lady Saw and Patra as her musical influences. "But I also want to bring back the culture to Caribbean music by representing this generation. It is not old school, but it is a mixture of African and West Indian styles and sounds. You will see a lot of dancing. That is what I wanted to get across with Billy Boom." Although “Billy Boom” has an island feel to it, MonChérie is adamant about the desire for her music to transcend the Caribbean music scene. “My music is about pulling cultures together and taking my sound to an international level where everyone can move and vibe to it,” she said. “I believe I have a sound and message that can reach anyone, no matter where they are from. I definitely will be tackling social issues pertaining to women, relationship problems, life-problems and sharing some feel good, happy music.” Aside from her music, MonChérie is never one to leave her fans hanging. She is a constant presence on social media; updating Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages with inspirational messages, photos and behind the scenes footage of video shoots. She wants her followers to capture the full scope of who she is and to share in her musical journey. “I want to open doors for new and even old Caribbean artists to do the same thing I am doing here in America. It is all about inspiring and encouraging one another,” she said. “Hopefully the work that I am doing now will pave the way for others who have dreams similar to mine.” In 2015, MonChérie plans to release new projects and she is also looking to explore possible collaborations with other big name artists. For all important news and updates, fans should access her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Moncheriemusic1. The official video for “Billy Billy Boom Boom” can be viewed on YouTube. The song is also available for purchase on iTunes and Google Play. To schedule an interview with MonChérie, contact Ivan Thomas at202.904.4790 or intriguemg@gmail.com.

Visitors to St. Kitts in December can look forward to joining with locals in various aspects of the island’s national Carnival celebrations. The St. Kitts Carnival features a unique mix of lively and historic folklore, along with the more conventional elements of the colourful costumed street ‘mas’ that is always found in most Caribbean style festivals. With numerous activities commencing as early as December 5th, the main street activities start on Boxing Day and last through to a two-day New year’s climax. This jubilant, engaging experience for local residents and visitors alike is affectionately called “Sugar Mas” – a most appropriate name that pays respect to the days when the island’s primary economic driver was its sugar industry. “St. Kitts’ Carnival is a very special time for all Kittitians everywhere and that is why so many of our people return home in December to enjoy our Christmas traditions and folkloric heritage,” commented Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister of Tourism & International Transport. “Travelers to St. Kitts at this time of year are always enchanted by the vibrant sights and sounds of our heritage and are encouraged to participate in the warmth of our Carnival celebrations.” The schedule of main events for this year’s St. Kitts’ Carnival is as follows: Friday, December 26 J’ouvert Street Jam Sunday, December 28 National Queen Pageant Monday, December 29 Senior Calypso Monarch Finals Tuesday, December 30 Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant Wednesday, December 31 Junior Carnival Parade Wednesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Gala (Members Only) Thursday, January 1 Grand Carnival Parade Friday, January 2 Las Lap The brilliant folkloric street displays are truly the heart of the St. Kitts’ Carnival, including the traditional Bull, Masquerade, Moko-Jumbies and Clowns. The Bull is a comedic play that acts out an exaggeration of an incident reported to have taken place in the early 1900s and continues today as one of the surviving features of earlier Christmas street pageants. Masquerade, in turn, showcases dancers dressed in vividly colored and bejeweled costumes, including elaborate feathered headdresses and masks. The awe-inspiring stilt walkers, or Moko-Jumbies, have their origins in African mythology and thrill onlookers as they walk and dance on six- to eight-foot stilts. Meanwhile, the Clowns are somewhat of an enigma in the English-speaking Caribbean and are thought to be the legacy of a 17th century French governor who resided on St. Kitts. If these street displays are Carnival’s heart, then music is its soul. Played throughout nearly every activity during the celebration, the traditional sounds of string, steel and brass bands are complimented by the intoxicating rhythms hammered out from old oil drums magically converted to chrome covered steel pan musical instruments. Street jams dominate the landscape, with the most popular jam taking place on J’ouvert, signaling the end of Christmas and the launching of Carnival into full swing before it draws to a close with the onset of the New Year. Throughout much of the world, the main features of Carnival are masquerades and parades. On St. Kitts it is so much more, blending elements of African, European and regional influences in a profound and multifaceted artistic expression of national pride, cultural traditions and heritage through song, dance, drama, poetry and music in a variety of competitions, performances and street activities. Meanwhile, the spirit of Christmas is kept alive through a series of evening gospel type concerts in downtown Basseterre. St. Kitts’ Carnival also stands out from most others due to its family-friendly nature. Both the young and old eagerly participate and there are events for specific age groups, such as the Talented Teen contest, Children’s Carnival and both junior and adult calypso competitions. Local food and drinks are available everywhere, from saltfish cakes and black pudding to ginger beer and sorrel.

The reigning Miss Universe Bahamas Tomii Culmer has added another title to her resume; she recently won the Miss Coco International pageant that was held in Colombia on the island of San Andres. After being on a 16 year hiatus, six beautiful candidates from Belize, Bahamas, Colombia, Honduras, Panama and Jamaica, competed the areas of poise, beauty, national dress, national costume, and judges First runner up went to Panama’s Keasy Myrie while Colombia’s Kimberly Padilla placed 2nd runner up. 19 years Brianna Thomas from Jamaica won the title of Miss Congeniality award

Most artists aim to inspire, evoke feelings and convey their story through lyrics and music. Such is Queen Calida's musical path, to use her words to paint her story of struggles, faith and triumph over adversity. To wear the title of Queen comes with requirements, one must hold her head high and be a role model. Queen Calida adheres to those qualities, and as a single mother looks to pass on the crown to her daughter. To leave her legacy, she documented and penned her story through her single "Find A Way". Gaining support and positive feedback, Queen Calida released a video in support of the inspirational hit. Filmed in Queens and Brooklyn, New York, "Find A Way" video was executive produced by Queen Calida herself, and directed by J.Herby of unlimited productionz, with Marsha Hamilton as assistant Director and featured actress. An added personal touch was the voice of Queen's daughter in the video introduction. Describing the video, Queen stated "I don't wanna go," my daughter said as she hugged me with all her little might,tears falling from her tiny eyes."When things get hard people work together mommy.I'll come home and lock the door and be very quiet and do my homework and make sure no one knows i'm here."My only response was tears and the return of her embrace as her innocence pierced my heart."She further explains "Babygirl and i had a very close bond as depicted in the video. I simply retraced our steps from the experiences frozen in my memory.The park in the video is the same one we used to go to.. I have been writing for a while but this song came from the deepest part of me.I wanted to ensure that she saw and understood and could access the reason we are not together. I made it one of the motivational tools for my musical and life journey.The fight continues as i persist through the pain and hardship to "find a way." I believe there is a light at the end of every tunnel and that's where I'm headed." "Real battles are the ones we fight every day to succeed despite all odds." Queen Calida Adopting the moniker of Queen Calida, Opal Meeks was born in the inner city of seaview Gardens Kingston, Jamaica. A place like many other with hardships, beauty, life and an abundance of talents such as Grammy award winner Shabba Ranks, the iconic Bounty Killer and Elephant Man just to name a few. From a young age she was exposed to the rigors and hardship of life, which is reflected in her music. Despite her deprived surrounding education was a priority in which she successfully succeeded and excelled. As early as she can recall music lived within her soul. Queen Calida's alma mater Merl Grove High School is the foundation from which her talent was developed. At the age of fourteen she wrote and performed her first song for the entire school body in their school's auditorium. She developed a love for the performing arts and was actively involved in the annual J.C.D.C and School's Drama festivals throughout her tenure of high school. She received many accolades including a gold medal for dub poetry. Her journey led her to corporate Jamaica where unfulfilled she left to pursue her dreams. Upon her return to the musical arena, Queen Calida wrote a song that she used to enter the Magnum King and Queens of dancehall competition held annually in Jamaica. Of over six hundred contestants in the Portmore auditions in 2010 she was selected among the top five competitors for advancement. Her journey eventually lead her New York City. All that glitters isn't gold and the promises of fame and fortune has come at a cost which Queen Calida reflects on her new single "Find A Way," dedicated to her baby girl and their experience in America. Her aim is to build and uplift others with her music. Her subjects reflects real life events in a positive and inspirational manner.Her ultimate dream is to rock millions with her sound.