P1 FREEcultural xpression - February 2017 Culture cultural xpression - February 2017 P2 major figures in Afro- remembering Antonio Maceo Grajales ( Cuban Caribbeanrevolutionary aHistorynd general p2)

The meeting, than a quarter mil- known as the Protest lion soldiers and tra- of Baraguá (“Protesta versed all the island, de Baraguá”), began even through the mil- when a messenger itary trails, walls and was sent to Maceo fences built by the from another Cuban Spanish Army with high officer, who pro- the purpose of stop- posed an ambush ping them and dealing against the Spanish with an overwhelming general. Maceo reject- technical and numer- ed the plan, informing ical superiority of the the would-be conspir- Spaniards. The level ator via letter: “I don’t of coordination and want victory if it goes cohesiveness of Cu- accompanied with dis- ban forces was driven honor.” by the fact that Máxi- After respecting Mr Antonio Maceo Grajales Photo by tvyumuri.com mo Gómez had clearly the truce time for established a chain of the interview (a few ish and faced assas- by the Delegate of the la. Several days lat- command that subor- days), Maceo resumed sination attempts by Cuban Revolutionary er, Martí, treated as a dinated all Major Gen- hostilities. In order to the Spanish consul- Party (Martí). In Cos- non-military “Doctor” erals to Maceo, his ex- save his life, the gov- ates, and also in Ja- ta Rica, he faced, gun by Maceo, would fall ecutive officer. ernment of the Repub- maica, Maceo even- in hand, another at- in battle in Dos Ríos The invasion of lic of Cuba gave him tually settled in the tempt of assassination (confluence between Western Cuba had the task of gathering Costa Rican province by Spanish agents at the rivers Contramae- been previously at- money, arms and men of Guanacaste. The the exit of a theatre, stre and Cauto). tempted by Brigadier for an expedition from president of Costa with fatal result for After Gómez was General Henry Reeve the exterior. Maceo’s Rica assigned Maceo one of the aggressors. designated Gener- during the Ten Years’ movements were use- to a military unit and al in Chief of the Cu- War but faltered (and less, however, due to provided him with a Cuban War of In- ban Liberation Army, collapsed) between the dismay of the ex- small farm to live on. dependence Maceo was named the easternmost sec- iled sympathizers who Maceo was contact- In 1895, together with Lieutenant General tion of the province were unhappy with ed by José Martí and Flor Crombet and oth- (second in command of Matanzas and the the Zanjón pact. urged to initiate the er lesser officers, Ma- after the General in westernmost section Later in 1879, Ma- War of 1895, called by ceo disembarked in Chief). Starting from of the province of Ha- ceo and Major Gen- Martí the “necessary the vicinity of Baracoa Mangos de Baraguá vana and Reeve per- eral Calixto García war”. Maceo, with the (close to the eastern (place of the histori- ished. At the time Ma- Íñiguez planned from experience and wis- tip of Cuba) and after cal protest in front of ceo had collaborated New York a new inva- dom gained from pre- repelling a Spanish at- Martínez-Campos), with Reeve under the sion to Cuba, which vious revolutionary tempt at capturing or Maceo and Gómez, direction of Máximo initiated the short- failures, argued that killing him, he got into on command of two Gómez. The eager- lived Little War. Ma- there were a number the mountains of that long mambises col- ness for independence ceo did not personally of impediments to region. After many umns, took brilliantly and the cruelty of the fight in these battles, military success in a difficulties, he -man the task of invading Spanish high officers for he had sent Ca- brief but intense epis- aged to gather a small the west of Cuba, rid- made rural inhabi- lixto García as high- tolary exchange with contingent of armed ing or walking more tants of the western est commander. This Martí, warning about men, which rapidly than 1000 miles in half of the island ea- avoided exacerbating the causes of the par- grew with other rebel 96 days. After sev- ger to give support in the racist prejudices of tial defeat in the Ten groups of the Santiago eral months bleeding men and logistics to fellow Cuban officers Years’ War (1868–78). de Cuba region. In the the Spanish forces in the Liberation Army. that were inflamed by Martí responded with farm of “La Mejorana”, Havana and Pinar del This was the cause of Spanish propaganda. his formula of “the Maceo had a histor- Río Maceo arrived at the institution, by Va- The Spanish tried to army, free; but the ic, but unfortunate, Mantua, in the west- leriano Weyler, of the create the impression country, as a coun- meeting with Gómez ern extreme of Cuba, reconcentration. Hun- that Maceo was trying try with all its digni- and Martí, because of on October, 1896, af- dreds of thousands of to start a racial war ty represented,” and the disagreements be- ter defeating for many peasants were forcibly against white Cubans, convinced Maceo of tween him and Martí, times the technically carried to the cities, though their propa- the high probabilities regarding the ques- and numerically su- mainly Havana, Pinar ganda efforts did little of success if the war tion of the relationship perior forces of the del Río and Matanzas, damage to Maceo’s was to be prepared between the military Spaniards (five times besides several minor reputation. carefully. As a pre- movements and the the Cuban forces on cities in these three condition, Maceo de- civilian government, occasions). provinces. The fruitful manded that highest against which consti- Using alternately In the concentra- truce command should be in tution was Maceo, but the tactics of guerril- tion camps created After a short stay in the hands of Gómez, Martí, knowing both la and open warfare, for them, very similar Haiti, where he was which was approved sides of the problem, they exhausted the continued pursued by the Span- without reservation stood on his formu- Spanish Army of more on page 3 P3 cultural xpression - February 2017 Caribbean Crucible: History, Culture, and GlobalizationCulture pt.3 By Kevin A. Yelv- a number of military Cervantes Prize, and ington interventions—which Walcott, from tiny St. Conquest and Colo- eventually brought Lucia, won the Nobel. nization pt 3 tourists, satellite tele- Caribbean mu- As the anti-slavery vision, the Internet, sic—reggae, calyp- struggle finally ended, and the International so, salsa, merengue, it gave way to the an- Monetary Fund. This rhumba—has gained ti-colonial, nationalist experience was also worldwide notori- struggle, a prominent diverse (see Table 2). ety and acceptance feature of twenti- Political differenc- and influenced other eth-century Carib- es, linguistic diversi- Photo by DCCCD musical styles. Per- bean life, led for the ty, and traditions and formers such as the most part by workers prejudices inherited metropole than with ple have been con- nothing could ever Mighty Sparrow, Celia and their nascent or- from the differing co- the residents of the strained in their po- be built among these Cruz, and the late Bob ganizations. At the lonial powers have island next door who litical and economic rotting shacks, bare- Marley have achieved same time, European meant that the Ca- speak a different lan- relationships, it is footed backyards and worldwide fame, and dominance gave way ribbean has suffered guage. perhaps these very moulting shingles; ... to these names could in large part, though from a lack of unity constraints that have If there was nothing, be added many oth- not completely, to and insular world- Culture and Cre- generated the condi- there was everything ers. Trinidadian car- U.S. political, cultur- views. Islanders of- olization tions for innovation to be made.”3 And nival masker Peter al, and military he- ten feel more in com- If Caribbean peo- and creativity that made they have. In Minshall was artistic gemony—including mon with the colonial mark Caribbean cul- 1992, the quincente- director for the open- tural forms—from nary of Columbus’s ing and closing cere- language, religion, first voyage, Carib- monies of the 1992 major figures in Afro and music to family bean litterateurs won Olympics in Barcelo- structure. As Derek Europe’s most pres- na, the 1996 Olym- Walcott, a Caribbe- tigious writing prizes. pics in Atlanta, and remembering Antonio Maceo Grajales p2 an writer and winner Martinican novelist the 1994 World Cup continued from page 2 of the Nobel Prize Patrick Chamoiseau opening ceremony in for Literature, once was awarded France’s the United States. to those later built in the ulterior course or three men), the wrote: “Colonials, we Prix Goncourt, Cu- Europe by the Nazis, of war, and with the physician of his Head- began with this ma- ban poet Dulce María continued almost a third part of Government in Arms, quarters, the Brigade larial enervation: that Loynaz won Spain’s on page 4 the Cuban rural popu- to establish an agree- General José Miró lation lost their lives. ment between it and Argenter and a small Contrary to the ex- the forces in action, troop of no more than pectations of Weyler, in relation with two twenty men. When the cruel reconcentra- main subjects: the they attempted to cut tion encouraged many raisings of medium a fence for facilitating people to join to the and high officers in the march of horses Liberation army, pre- the Liberation Army through those lands, ferring to die in bat- and the recognition they were detected by tle than in starvation. of belligerence by a strong Spanish col- In 1896, after meet- foreign countries and umn, which opened ing Gómez in Havana acceptation of direct an intense fire. Maceo (crossing once more military aid. His posi- was hit by two shots, the trail from Mariel tion was, at that time, one in the chest and to Majana via Mariel acquiescent with ac- another that broke his Bay), he returned to cepting economic aid jaw and penetrated the fields of Pinar del and packages with his skull. His compan- Río, where he faced weapons and ammu- ions could not carry bloody clashes with nitions from Europe him because of the outnumbering forces, or even from the Unit- intensity of the fire- led by Spanish gen- ed States, but was fight and Maceo’s size. erals famous for their strongly opposed to The only rebel who victories in Africa and acceptance by Cubans stayed by him was the Philippines, and in the independence the Lieutenant Fran- provided with artillery movement for a direct cisco Gómez (known and the most modern military intervention as Panchito), son of weapons for infantry by the US in Cuba. Máximo Gómez, who including the Mauser faced the Spanish col- bolt-action rifle. After Death umn for the sole pur- decimating Spanish His plans for meeting pose of protecting the forces in the west- with Gómez and the body of his general. ernmost mountains of Government in Arms After being shot sev- Cuba, Maceo turned never took place. On eral times, the Span- eastward again, December 7, 1896, in iards killed Gómez crossing the men- the vicinity of Punta with machete strikes, tioned trail in order Brava, Maceo was ad- leaving both bod- to travel to Las Villas vancing into the farm ies abandoned, not or Camagüey. There of San Pedro, only knowing the identity he was planning to accompanied by his of the fallen. meet Gómez to plan personal escort (two Culture cultural xpression - February 2017 P4 Caribbean Crucible: History, Culture... pt.3.... from page 2 as described by the United States’ European-derived, and even Am- “melting pot” model that has its erindian-derived strains. Such art counterparts in the Caribbean, and stylized play involves resis- creolization occurred and occurs in tance and opposition. the context of differences in social A second sense of “creole” de- power. Creolization may be more scribes a kind of language situa- pronounced in some areas of cul- tion. Creole forms of speech exist ture than in others; it depends on throughout the Caribbean, and historical context and sets its own therefore the terms “Dutch-speak- standards. ing,” “English-speaking,” and Afro-Caribbean family forms, “French-speaking” Caribbean are with the prevalence of fe- somewhat misleading. The term male-headed households, single “pidgin” refers to specialized trade parenthood, and common-law or contact jargons, and a creole marriage, are thus not somehow language comes into existence “deviant.” They have to be seen in when populations in contact en- their historical development and as gage in regular interaction and strategies by men and (especially) the pidgin becomes the language women devised in the context of of the home—a first language, ex- scarcity. Creolization is evident in panding the language’s functions syncretic Caribbean religions and and scope. their uses to oppose the estab- Besides multilingualism, bilin- lished order. These include santería gualism, and monolingualism, the Novelists and poets including of creolization. “Creole,” from the (sometimes called regla ocha or Caribbean also exhibits “diglossia,” Jamaica Kincaid, V.S. Naipaul, Spanish criollo meaning “of local lukumí) and palo monte mayombe the language form created when and Kamau Brathwaite have found origin,” is to be understood in at in Cuba; vodou in Haiti; the orisha two codes exist, sharing one lev- homes and followings abroad while least three senses. One is the gen- religion in Trinidad; obeah in the el (for example, vocabulary) but their work is still identifiable as Ca- eral idea of a cultural blending, of English-speaking Caribbean; and differing at other levels (for ex- ribbean. But these attainments are more than one cultural tradition Kumina, Myal, Revival and Rasta- ample, in pronunciation and gram- not the only consequences of Ca- becoming transformed under local farianism—with its explicit evoca- mar). In Martinique, Guadeloupe, ribbean culture building. conditions to something unlike its tions of Africa—in Jamaica. Carib- and Haiti, for instance, French is The practice of everyday life antecedents—a process of change bean music and art forms, such as the official language (used in legal as well as the development of with early documentation in the Carnival in Trinidad and Cuba and proceedings, on television, and in expressive and communicative Caribbean, and which even began Jonkonnu in Jamaica, are complex schools), while creole is spoken on culture and religion might fruit- on the slave ships themselves. But outcomes of the creolization pro- the streets and in the home in in- fully be seen through the prism rather than an easy assimilation, cess that include African-derived, formal conversation.

continued on page 6 P5 cultural xpression - February 2017 Community Development cx first Agricultural festival in photos

Generation New Status STM, blessed the opening of the Festival Community members flock the streets along side host Lady Destiny

Living Statues by funtopia

Pumpkins by St Peters Community Garden

We got the tourist into the community Community Development cultural xpression - February 2017 P6 cx first Agricultural festival in photos

Free T-Shirt Giveaway Hon. Priest Kailash meets community members

Coconut tarts by St Martin Sweetness

Community vendors made palnts available for visitors to purchase.

Cultural accessories and Natural Products by African Royalty

Ras Jahbash speaks about herbs on his table

The traditional way of cooking Bringing community members together P7 cultural xpression - February 2017 Health

What risks are we taking vaccinating our children? p2 Concerned citizen seeks answers about children vaccinations Blessed love Priest Kailash I live in against diphtheria, tetanus and polio, also cause they would have to start all over again, St.Maarten, i would like your advice as to what MMR which is the immunization against mea- meaning twice with the same time span. I feel vaccines you feel we should try to stay away sles, mumps, and rubella. I asked the fami- very uncomfortable about this situation, since from in particular. My son Judah have been ly doctor if these vaccinations could be given to me it’s like playing russian roulette, with our vaccinated before when he lived with his moth- apart and delayed until he is in his teens that children, but these government people got us er, now he is 9 years of age and they usually the body can better resist any complications with our backs against the wall, cause there give that same vaccines as before hoping to but according to the doctor the DTP is given plan is to use force or make it look like I’m an complete the immunity against DTP and MMR, together, and so is the MMR. inconsiderate parent when it is out of love that but i have read where these vaccines have I’m not sure if they mean DTP is already I don’t want to take chances with my youth. caused death in certain cases. mixed or if they mix it and give it as one shot, I hope you will be able to respond in time The vaccines that the ministry of public and the same goes for the MMR, I am not re- that I can better make up my mind as to what health is asking my permission to give are ally sure how it’s done. The doctor also said I should do to keep my son out of harm’s way. the following DTP which is the immunization that they can not be delayed until his teens

are known to direct- rons rapidly and permanently disintegrate ly attack brain cells. in the presence of mercury within 30 min- In 1978, MSG was utes of exposure. Mercury is also known to banned from baby change a body’s chromosomes. foods and other The U.S. Government has known about baby products that the potential problems of thimerosal (the were produced for mercury-containing preservative) for children who were many years. The World Health Organiza- less than one year tion expressed concerns about it in 1990. of age, because the Mercury is a cumulative poison, which American Academy means the body has difficulty removing it, of Pediatrics and and that levels of it in the body will ac- the National Acade- cumulate significantly over time. Large my of Sciences ex- amounts of mercury can accumulate over pressed concerns. a lifetime. During a typical day of routine It is now being used vaccines, infants sometimes receive the in these products same amount of mercury as the absolute again, in addition maximum set by the World Health Orga- to being added to nization for 3 months of adult exposure. childhood vaccines. Fetal calf/bovine serum are in some Preservatives are vaccines added to some vac- In the manufacture of viral vaccines, cine formulations to the virus may be grown in cells. These prevent the growth cells need a source of nutrition, which in Excessive expo- perhaps more than vaccines include: of bacteria or fungi some instances may be provided by fetal sure to formalde- 10% of the gener- sugars such as su- that may be intro- bovine serum. hyde may cause al population may crose and lactose, duced into the vac- cancer. be susceptible to amino acids such cine during its use, Dangers of these additives in vaccines extreme formalde- as glycine or the e.g., repeated punc- This is foreign tissue and the physical Dangers of form- hyde toxicity, and monosodium salt of ture of a multi-dose structure may relater adversely to such. aldehyde may violently react glutamic acid and vaccine vial with a Formaldehyde is ox- to exposure at any proteins such as hu- continued on page 8 needle. idized in the human level. man serum albumin Mercury com- body to become or gelatin. pounds are used in formic acid. Formic Sugars, amino ac- vaccines as preser- acid is the main in- ids, and proteins Dangers of these vatives. The toxic- gredient of bee and added to some additives ity of mercury has ant venom. Concen- vaccines Monosodium salt of been repeatedly trated, it is corro- These substances glutamic acid can ignored in the area sive and an irritant. may be added as cause heart attacks. of vaccines by the While absorbing stabilizers. They Injections of gluta- medical establish- the oxygen of the help protect the vac- mate in laboratory ment and oversight body, it may lead cine from adverse animals have re- agencies. Mercury to acidosis, nerve, conditions such as sulted in rapid dam- is the second most liver and kidney the freeze-drying age to nerve cells poisonous element damage. Accord- process, for those in the brain. MSG known to mankind ing to the National vaccines that are is in a special class (second only to ura- Research Council, freeze dried. Sta- of chemicals called nium and its deriv- fewer than 20% but bilizers added to excitotoxins, which atives). Brain neu- cultural xpression - February 2017 P8 Health Vaccines and our kids p2.... FROM PAGE 7 vegATERIAN AND Sometime snorted human fetus is used Personally I don’t vaccinate my children and this can result in shock. but your choice have to be made based vEGAN recipes upon your understanding. We use lots of Are vaccines safe? potent immune-enhancing herbs, charcoal Spicy Vegan Potato Curry Many doctors have associated autism and and allow our children to natural acquire other mental disorders to vaccines and immunity. We are not telling you whether some children life have changed dramat- or not to vaccinate your child but we are ically for the worst after using vaccines. providing you with information. Many people have died after taken vac- “A single vaccine given to a 6 pound in- cines this is why in countries like USA fant is the equivalent of giving a 180 lb. there is a national fund available for vac- adult 30 vaccines in one day.” cine incidents. -- Dr. Boyd Haley Some people will say that vaccines have Take time and research as your baby is resulted in the destruction of many diseas- very vulnerable and you have been given es while some see it as a killer. We have the responsibility to nurture them by the provided you with some basic information Almighty. Ingredients some of which taken from the FDA website 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed so you can make an educated choice to Blessed Love 2 tablespoons vegetable oil what you do. 1 yellow onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper 4 teaspoons curry powder 4 teaspoons garam masala 1 (1 inch) piece fresh ginger root, peeled and minced 2 teaspoons salt 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes 1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans (chick- peas), rinsed and drained 1 (15 ounce) can peas, drained 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk

Place potatoes into a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until just tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and allow to steam dry for a minute or two.

Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onion and garlic; cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with cumin, cayenne pep- per, curry powder, garam masala, ginger, and salt; cook for 2 minutes more. Add the to- matoes, garbanzo beans, peas, and potatoes. Pour in the coconut milk, and bring to a sim- mer. Simmer 5 to 10 minutes before serving. water to help them stick. Repeat until you have finished with all of the dough and filling.

Bring a large pot of salt water to a boil and drop the ravioli inside, about 10 at a time. Now. wait until they start floating on the sur- face of the boiling, remove them and place on a piece of kitchen paper. You can now either eat them right away with some olive oil, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast (or vegan cheese) or freeze them for another time.spinach, and mustard greens.

Stemmed, coarsely chopped spinach or whole baby spinach leaves can be added as you would the chard in the directions above, as can chopped mustard greens. If you’d like to try kale or collard greens in this dish, I’d sug- gest steaming first before adding to the dish when you would the other greens.

You can also vary the kind of beans used. Try black beans, red beans, or pinto beans.

Nutrition Information: Per Serving: 231.2 calories; 3.7g total fat; 7.8g protein; 43.7g carbs; 8.9g fiber; 426mg sodium

Read more at http://www.vegkitchen.com wha ya say P9 cultural xpression - February 2017 ?

‘‘Life is what you make it, DO SOMTHING ‘‘ Can Child Molesters Ever Be Rehabilitated? p1 By.goodtherapy. cording to this clas- Individuals who dophilia. Other indi- org/ sification, having an have an antisocial viduals may molest While the terms attraction to children personality and may children for the above “pedophile” and “child and not acting on it use children sexually reasons, out of sexual molester” are often does not indicate a but have no particular frustration, or in order used interchangeably, mental condition. sexual desire for chil- to maintain power or they do not mean the New research dren.nIndividuals who exert control. same thing. A pedo- shows that pedo- are older than 16 and Though nearly all phile is a person who is philic disorder may experience ongoing those who molest chil- attracted to children, be neurological in na- sexual desire for chil- dren have pedophilia, but not all people with ture, lending further dren. Sexual desire many people with pedophilia molest chil- support to the posi- for children, or pedo- pedophilia will never dren. Many individu- tion that an attrac- philia, can be iden- molest a child, and als who are attracted tion to children is not tified and treated or some work to elimi- to children never act a choice. Some may controlled with thera- nate their attraction on their attraction, find this difficult to py and medication. to children through and some seek help accept, as those who Ninety-five percent various forms of treat- in order to keep from do act on their desires are often required tween Pedophilia of all known instanc- ment and therapy. harming children. and molest children to enter rehabilita- and Child Molesta- es of child molesta- Pedophilia is con- have the potential tion programs, which tion tion are committed more on this sidered by some to be to cause serious and are meant to redirect Psychological per- by people with pe- topiC in march one of the most diffi- lasting harm to many pedophilic urges and spectives on child mo- 2017 cult social problems children. They may re- help a person refrain lestation vary greatly, to understand. The peat their crime over from harming chil- but experts agree that 5th edition of the Di- and over until stopped dren. These programs most people who mo- WHA YA SAY tELL DI TRUTH ! agnostic and Statisti- by the criminal justice are often viewed with lest children fall into cal Manual classifies system. Many peo- skepticism, as many one of four categories: pedophilia as a para- ple may believe that, believe that a person Children or teen- philia, distinguish- once caught, people who molests children agers under the age Two hand ing it from pedophilic who molest children cannot be rehabilitat- of 16 who are sexually disorder: It is diag- deserve to spend the ed and that pedophilic curious and may ex- gone ! nosable as a mental rest of their lives in urges will always lead periment with young- RAS ITAL health condition when prison, but the reality to the sexual abuse er children. it causes distress to is that many of these of a child. However, Adults who have the affected individu- individuals will even- there are several per- a brain condition, in- CHA al or to someone who tually be released. spectives on the issue. tellectual disability, or Mi really naah say to much seen, mi a wait is unwilling or unable Upon release from other mental health likkle more fi read di outcome a dis one... to consent. Thus, ac- prison, offenders The Difference Be- issue. cultural xpression - February 2017 P10 Arts

BEING SINGLE IN 2017 BEING SINGLE IN 2017, simple conclusion in life that, if for yourself. Now it did take me And if I choose to hang out with AND IT FEELS AMAZING you can’t be happy alone how some time to figure out what some girlfriends I do, if not I do I know my heading might can you be happy with someone I wanted, and like any other whatever floats my boat. You have caught your attention else. With that said I’ve had my woman that simply was to be see when we get so caught in and you’re probably saying or share of relationship in my time happy and “semi” stress free. our own little world, doing what thinking to yourself… She must and I realized that the majority Yes, I did say “semi” stress make you happy you leave little be crazy or just a delusional of men here and anywhere in free, I would be lying to myself space for disappointments. So lesbian who hasn’t found her- the world are just like us wom- and to you, saying I would like what I’m really trying to make self the right man. Before we en. They want to be loved and to have a stress free perfect life clear is that you are as happy get any further I would like have someone who will have which doesn’t exist. What I did, as you allow yourself to be, cir- to introduce myself to all my their back no matter what. But doesn’t take a rocket scientist cumstances will arise and other readers , my name is Latoya most importantly they want to figure out. Here’s what I things along the way. But your Ruan I was born and raised honesty, and with honesty did, it’s this simple: I removed goal in life is not to be like ev- here on the beautiful island of trust comes along. Now I’ve myself from all of the clutter eryone else because if that was St. Maarten, I am 36 years of been out of the dating scene that surrounded me example: the case it would be chaos. So age, soon to be 37 with no kids for about 1 year and a couple negative people and attention nothing is wrong with having a “Can you say biological clock months. In the beginning, be- seekers. I then started to feed spa day alone, going to dinner is ticking” Yikes. Now that you ing alone was hard, but it made my mind with positive things I alone or even the movies alone. know a little about me let me me understand that when you wanted to be happy with, no- You’ve worked hard enough get right into why you started want something so desperate- tice I said “I want to be hap- and deserve to be treated the reading my article in the first ly in life, you must first give py with” no one else but me. how you want to be treated, place. I’m not a bitter lady in yourself time to heal from your Sometimes in life we often get and who can take better care her mid 30’s who feels like all previous heartache. Focus on confused doing things to please of yourself than you. So live a men are dogs. I’ve come this what you want to accomplish others and we often squeeze little be spontaneous and start ourselves out of the equation. each day with a cup of sparkle And we do this because it’s how and whatever else makes you society has trained us to be. So happy. Don’t ever let anyone concerned about ensuring you dull your shine (in other words have enough Facebook likes your happiness), because your and snapchat views that we lose happiness and wearing a smile ourselves and before you know is the most beautiful accessory it we’re miserable and alone. you can wear and I’m wearing Now if you start each day with mines every day. This is why making yourself a priority like my single life is so amazing and you do in pleasing others you yours can be too, you just have will notice it becomes a habit. to start putting yourself first. And we all know that it takes So make today and every oth- theoretically speaking 21 days er day count in your process of to create a habit and 90 days being happy and simply amaz- to create a lifestyle. So when I ing…. say I’m single I really am say- Stay blessed and express ing I’m enjoying my me time. yourself How Art Affects Our Emotions? pt. 4

Subject And Pattern fect than that of artwork with Particular subject and pat- clutter subjects and combina- tern of art also influence the tions. That’s why landscape emotion and reaction of the are so much used for encour- viewers. Patterns always play aging calmness and serenity. the great role, because un- For a normal people who don’t understandable artwork with understand the meaning of ab- vague subject and messages stract, abstract creates an illu- may distract the viewers espe- sion and tension because of its cially those who’re not familiar unclear message. For deriving with such pattern. peace and calm emotions natu- The artwork with clear view ral landscape and photographic and focus on the particular art are strongly helpful. subject has more soothing ef- P11 cultural xpression - February 2017 Entertainment cx first Agricultural festival in photos

Dj Prestige of Uniq Sound long side Mixmaster Pauly

Iyah Pikney long side Deej Blaze Live at CX Agriculture Festival

continued on page 12

Mc Rukshun long side Lady Destiny

O3 Team Wavey Live at CX Agriculture Festival Entertainment cultural xpression - February 2017 P12 cx first Agricultural festival in photos

Solo Kween Live at CX Agriculture Festival Wesley Sutton and Dj Prestige of Uniq Sound Locally

In the mix with Hype wattzz Publishing Locally Hype will be a section of the Newsmagazine that will highlight all upcoming Audio and Video releases from Wattzz Publishing. Coming soon Digital Vynals - The EP Artist: ACHA aka iyahpikney Genere: Dancehall, Reggae, House, Urban

download new tracks on www.soundcloud.com\wattzz_publishing P13 cultural xpression - February 2017 Why Ecotourism is ImportantTourism ?

Cultural Xpresssion Agricultural Festival St Maarten These days, every- these are true, but ec- ecotourism is that that one and anyone can otourism is a far more environment should label themselves or complex concept than not be damaged by their tourism project this…… the presence of tour- / idea / tour operator Ecotourism essentially ists who visit to expe- as “Ecotourism”. It’s is a mix of inter-linked rience it. In fact, an usually a marketing concepts that all de- ecotourism projects ploy to attract more pend on eachother in goal should be that business - everyone the hope of achieving the mere presence of feels good if they can a type of tourism that tourists actively con- consider themselves is sustainable in the tribute towards the to be travelling re- long term. The three local conservation is- sponsibly. key concepts are the sues. Ideally, more When I ask people environment, the local tourists (up to a cer- “what is ecotourism?” population and educa- tain threshold) should or “what’s the defini- tion. mean more benefits tion of ecotourism?” Ecotourism is indeed / conservation / con- the responses nor- normally (though not tributary funds to- mally centre around necessarily) a type of wards the environ- descriptions on tour- tourism based on na- ment. ism based on nature ture (eg. rainforests MORE ON THIS / natural parks and a or other environmen- TOPIC IN MARCH few people will men- tally threatened eco- 2017 EDITION tion conservation. Yes systems). The idea of cultural xpression - February 2017 P14 Businessthe entrprenuers corner: mr ralph cantave The Entrepreneur’s Corner is Q&A for- Who or what inspires your creativity as a mat interview geared towards highlighting En- writer? trepreneurs from St Maarten and round the Ca- The island provides me with a lot of inspiration. ribbean about their direction , goals , struggles There is so much to write about especially when and life while working towards building their it comes to our history. Reading a lot of books careers and businesses. solidifies the creativity but talking and listening As we kick off another edition of The Entrepre- to our people gives constant inspiration. neur’s Corner the month Feb 2017 we are hon- ored to get a chance to interview young aspiring What are the short term and long term goals writer Mr Ralph Cantave. His new book Words and What do you look forward to mostly in your of Change shares with the reader a chance to field of interest or choice of career? embrace the Voices of Soualigan Soil and what I don’t really have much short term goals be- best way to express it through the pen of a cause I love to think long term but one of my promising young man. Mr Ralph Cantave . short term goals would be to have my first book go international and be and gain new cli- Who are you and where are you from? ents partner and to do business with. My long My name is Ralph Cantave. I’m am author, term goal is to be a world renowned writer and poet, radio host, student and a servant leader. a global leader. I am man who believes in leading by example and serving one’s community. As a writer , what challenges do you face I’m a son of the soil whose roots are grounded in the publication and distribution field of in Haiti. I’m also a proud Downstreet boy; as I your product, give basic idea how they are lived in town all my life. dealt with them ? Where did you attend to school ? I think the main challenge is in finding a pub- I was fortunate to attend the best schools on lisher that you can afford and get the most out the island. I’m a proud alumna of M.A.C school of the returns from the book. I believe in hav- (Browlia F. Millard campus) & the St. Maarten ing full control of my product therefore I had to Academy. I’m currently in my last semester at self publish, however, by doing so means you the University of St. Martin and I’m pursuing Mr Ralph Cantave have to look for editors and graphic designer, my Associate degree in General Liberal Arts. and do your own marketing. When it comes to my favorite books, because I (and every other distribution it’s important to research how and What are you currently doing to be able to student on the island) was never truly taught where you want to have your book distributed. sustain yourself or family ? that we had heroes and heroines that did great That is an error that I made but at least I know I am a radio host at 98.1 Pearl fm. I host the things for this island. People like Jose Lake what to do before I launch my next book. This morning show from 8.30-10 am from Monday Sr., Vance James Jr., Claude Wathey, Jocelyn refers to knowing how to get your book on Am- to Thursday. I also do freelance public relations Arndell, Elain Vlaun and others. After reading azon, or in a book store for example. for people on the island and the US, and my that book I wanted to be like them. I wanted to book Words of Change is pretty much in de- be known as someone who always fought and Has rejection ever happen in terms of your mand on the island, so book sales have been spoke up on behalf of the people. However the career or Have you ever been discouraged, going good so far. days of the Island Council are long gone and how did you deal with it? our people are in dire need of true leadership; I have definitely been rejected. I must say that What inspired you to become a writer? that is what inspired me to be an author. I be- I embrace the idea of failure and I say so be- When I look back, I think it is something I lieve that in order for democracy and justice to cause I know it will make me an even greater was simply just born to do. From a young age rein our people must be well informed so that person and teach me a valuable lesson that I I used to draw and write stories when I was they don’t repeat the same mistakes. There- can tell other people. In terms of my career I bored but my love for reading and love for em- fore, I love my current career choice of being a haven’t really been rejected other than being powering others really inspired me to write. My radio host, and author because it allows me to denied a sponsorship for example or not get- old homeroom teacher Mr. Kenneth Cook also speak directly to the people; in preparation for ting into a school I applied for. I rarely get dis- played a major role in that because he would when I get to speak for the people. couraged to be honest with you because I know select several students to give their thoughts and believe that I will have a bright future and on certain issues on the island then send it to Your recent book Words of Change, Voice if it means being broke and sucking salt then the paper to be published. I was fortunate to be from Soualigan Soil, what is your main di- I’ll do so smiling. I must say that I’ve had mo- one of those students. Mr. Michael Granger also rection of the book? ments when I’ve been without money which is played a role due to his mentoring during my My main direction for the book is one of em- really discouraging and sometimes makes want early years in Teen Times. powerment. I made no effort whatsoever in bit- to go look for a job. However, I believe that if What was your original career choice and What ing my tongue because I felt like people need- God has given you gifts and talents then you inspired you to undertake your current career? ed to hear the raw truth. I want people to sit should be willing to invest in it because no one From since 2nd form my main career choice was back, reread what I wrote, think about it, dis- else is responsible for it. Nonetheless, I pray and still is to be a politician. My love for poli- cuss it and do something when they’re finished a lot, I have positive and empowering discus- tics was once again inspired by Mr. Cook, who reading. I see it as a call to action. I played my sions with friends and my elders or mentors. wrote a book about 50 movers and shakers on part by providing the tools; now it’s the readers Something very important that I do as well is the island who played a major role in the de- turn to make use of it. read. I believe that in order to be an impactful velopment of the island. To this day it is one of and capable leader one has to read a lot. When I read up on leaders like Nelson Mandela, Mal- colm X and even modern day billionaires and influencers they spend a lot of time reading. A good book will make you forget that you’re hungry and show you the buffet that’s waiting for you.

How has the feed back on your new book been locally? The feedback from the local community has been great. I have absolutely no complaints about it. I welcome all critiques and comments.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years in terms of your career choice? In 5 years I also see myself as one of the young- est politicians in the region and a prime exam- ple of a servant leader with integrity, courage and a lot of knowledge; a role model that all people- whether young or old can expect solid representation from on the island and in the outside world as well.

What is your proudest achievement in your field or describe briefly your greatest accomplishments thus far? continued on page 15 Sports

P15 cultural xpression - February 2017 the entrprenuers corner... mrBusiness cantave... From page 14 My proudest achievement was who believes that God is always in seeing the smile on my parent’s control. Also, if you here the name face when the books arrived. I felt Ralph Cantave just know that pol- like I brought a child into the world itics, culture, history and youth go when I held the first copy. I felt hand in hand so Ralph is all about proud because I knew that it would culture and cultural development. be the key to showing to people that there are serious young peo- As you know our cultural pa- ple on the island and in the world, per is focus on a number of who don’t limit themselves be- community awareness build- cause of their age or where they’re ing topics, most importantly from. I was also proud because Agriculture and Community I was working on it for almost 3 development. What are you years and I quit 2 jobs to focus on thoughts and views of the im- its success. Another achievement portance of Agriculture for St that I’m proud of is the honor that Maarten? I’ve been given to represent St. As Ras Bushman would say: “plant- Maarten in various countries. I see ing is when you agree with cul- it as a great opportunity to let peo- ture”, therefore, agriculture is vital ple know that the little dot that’s for the sustainability of our envi- on the map produced minds that ronment and our people. I grew can survive or stand out in the “big up learning about different me- world.” dicinal herbs (no not marijuana), fruits and vegetables which are What do you think at about St also have growing in our family’s Maarten current unemployed garden. We need more programs situation and what advice can and more community gardens to you give to other young entre- promote agriculture because it is preneurs that may be facing something that was once natural this challenge ? to us and it should be once again. Our unemployment situation needs immediate solutions and I What do you think can bring believe that what will play a major more community members to- role in the drop of unemployment gether to focus on positive de- are better internet, and the ability velopment issues for their sur- to receive money from other coun- rounding communities? tries. Our economy also needs a Knowledge and leadership is the boost and we need to catch up key towards community devel- quickly with the technological opment. When we are aware age that we’re in today. Also, our and have knowledge of our com- young people need to understand mon-unifying then we’ll be quicker that they are not just competing to act and work towards creating a or existing with other young St. positive and lasting impact on the Maarteners but a young person island. is the US, Japan, Nigeria, Jamai- ca, London or Hawaii. We live in What would you like to share a much interconnected world and with some of local brothers we shouldn’t look at ourselves as and sisters that may help en- inferior despite the challenges. We courage those that are looking have the internet available to us at taking up being a committed still and there are dozens of cours- writer as a career choice? es that you can take to learn a new The key is to write with your heart. skill or improve your skills. Make Don’t focus too much on being Google and YouTube your best technical by looking too much at friends and spend less time on grammer, structure and so forth. social media but more time learn- Develop the raw material, express ing. If you have a skill or business how you feel at the moment, or that can be done online then do what you’re thinking then work to- your best to look for clients in oth- wards shaping up what you wrote. er countries as well. Most impor- Reading will also help you become tantly, partner up with other small a better writer. From there you can businesses. We are not in the po- start blogging, writing for people sition to be competing with each or better yet publish a book. other. For people that may be interest- ed in reading your book ‘’Words of What do you want to accom- Change, Voice of Soualigan Soil’’, plish overall in life? where can they be able to pur- I want to be a great ancestor. chase a copy and how may they When people read about me I be able to contact you? want them to have the same feel- For all those interested my book ing I had when I read about Tous- can be found at the museum in saint Louverture or Errol Barrow Front Street which is located in the for example. alley across Guavaberry Emporium or across the notary office. Or you If you could be some where can search for me on Facebook in the world right now where and contact me via messenger: would you be? Ralph Cantave. Be sure to also If I could be somewhere else in the check out my website cantaveen- world right now I’d be in Cuba. erpirse.com.

What role does nature, spiri- We want to thank Mr Cantave tuality or culture play in your for taking the time out of his busy life? schedule to share a bit more about Nature, spirituality and culture him self to the general public, we play a very important role in my also wish you the best of health, life. My yard is filled with various strength, knowledge and wisdom medicinal herbs for example, and to continue being a positive role I am more conscious of what I model that may encourage change eat as well as the importance of and hope to our younger local safeguarding our environment. generation of writers. I am a praying man, and a man cultural xpression - February 2017 P16 AnSports incredible impact’: Poor kids are being priced out of youth sports P1 As poor children like police or other And the greatest around the country non-revenue-gener- irony, experts say, is get priced out of ex- ating departments?” this: A youth sports pensive youth sports City Manager Tony To- culture that places an leagues, a volunteer masello asked. “They immense emphasis baseball coach in sub- don’t make any mon- on winning — mostly urban Maryland has ey, but they bene- cultivated by parents devised a novel solu- fit the public. Are we — is leaving some of tion to one of many trying to fund a public the best athletes and financial barriers. benefit, or are we try- potential teammates It’s a small, square ing to fund health and behind. checkbox. fitness? Obviously it’s They can’t afford Marc Berk, a health both, but I think it’s to swing $300 bats or policy researcher, got really gravitating to- lace up $250 hockey the checkbox idea ward more of a social skates, and fewer are on vacation in New benefit.” able to compete for York. He noticed that Tomasello, Berk college scholarships. museum-goers who and youth sports ex- In 1993, 12.6 percent couldn’t pay the re- perts also acknowl- of scholarship athletes quested donation fee edge that waiving came from families had to explain why fees at the city level making $100,000 or — a demeaning pro- addresses only one of more, according to an cedure. He wondered added a checkbox to most 80 percent. for a lot of families,” the barriers that keep analysis of NCAA sta- whether something the sign-up form. It Soccer coach Es- said Berk, who pub- poor children from tistics. By 2008, that similar kept lower-in- says, “I am a resident teban Ochoa leads lished his findings this signing up to play soc- number doubled. come families away of the City, and I am students in a warm- summer in the Journal cer or baseball. “It’s extremely from youth sports. requesting a waiver of up session during an of Park and Recreation Transportation is frustrating, and it’s Berk persuaded all fees.” after-school soccer Administration. a crucial issue, with also extremely unfair,” officials in Gaithers- Waiver requests program in Gaith- The fee — $50 to- many single parents said Diego Uriburu, burg to amend their soared by 1,200 per- ersburg, Md. (Nikki day, but $40 during juggling multiple jobs executive director of fee-waiver process. cent. Participation Kahn/The Washington the study period in and multiple chil- Identity Inc., a Gaith- Instead of requir- jumped 31 percent; Post) 2009 — was covered dren who need to be ersburg nonprofit ing families to fill out for children who at- “Just doing this by a Robert Wood in multiple places. group that helps Lati- forms proving their tend high-poverty one small thing had Johnson Foundation Also, Gaithersburg is no youth and their need, administrators schools, it shot up al- an incredible impact grant, so the change somewhat atypical in families in high-pov- cost the city nothing. organizing leagues. erty areas. “These Now, having read the Many cities and coun- young people have results of the study, ties have exited youth natural athletic tal- Gaithersburg officials sports, an arena now ent, and they are not are considering mak- largely controlled by getting to work on it. ing the waiver process independent leagues They don’t have the permanent, which that charge hundreds best coaches. They could increase costs of dollars in fees, ei- are excluded because for providing youth ther for recreational they can’t afford it.” sports by at least sev- programs or more ex- Identity started its eral thousand dollars. pensive travel teams. own soccer program a There is also a risk of few years ago, using waiver fraud. How does that donations and money But city officials look on the field? it receives from the say they are weigh- Last year, nearly county to hire coach- ing those downsides 70 percent of children es. At first, some against a growing from families making players showed up body of research that more than $100,000 without proper shoes. says participation in played team sports, The organization now youth sports improves according to Project gets cleats and other physical and mental Play, an initiative on equipment from Lev- health, lowers crime youth sports from the eling the Playing Field, and teen pregnancy nonprofit Aspen In- a Silver Spring organi- rates, and increases stitute. That figure is zation that distributes college enrollment. nearly cut in half for donated sports gear in families making less high-need communi- “Is this a service than $25,000. ties. that you now provide MORE IN mARCH 2016 EDITION