Island signatures caribbean magazine 3

JULY 2016 ISSUE #3

SUMMER EDITION

ISLAND SIGNATURES 2016

CONTENTS 4 Letter From The Editor 6 Contributors 8 Caleb Straker (Tribe of Leb) 14 Ruby Tech (Razor’s Edge) 21 JSG Coaching & Consulting 22 Caribbean Delights 24 Wave Element 26 Road to Crop Over 28 Crop Over Calender 30 What Does Crop Over Mean to You? 32 Curvy Girl’s Guide to Kadooment 36 How to Survive the Weekend 40 2016 Sweet Soca & Party Monarch Finalists 42 Sasha Melody 46 Advertisements 48 Advertise with us!

50 Contact Information 53 Acknowledgements

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Letter From The Editor

Welcome back!

As we continue this journey, our commitment remains the same – quality and class!

In the Caribbean and throughout the world by extension, Easter is a time for reflection. It is one of the few holiday seasons where many people are free to travel. Airports are packed with groups in colour coded t-shirts, like the Tele-Gathering Group on their 21st year that vacationed in St. Lucia as well as a combo comprising Water and Sewerage Authority as well as Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago Employees that visited Barbados. From the reports it was true Caribbean integration.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR W

In this 2nd issue of our magazine, the Easter theme was evident. We included a section for kids, which married an Easter activity and ideas for parents to spend that much needed quality time with their young ones. We will not stop there, as the elderly in our communities would have laid the elcome back! foundation for us to build. Thus, in our future publications, look out for the ‘not so young, but young at heart’ to be featured, as appreciating our past will no doubt ensure our continued legacy and inevitable growth.

As continue this journey, our commitment the same quality class!

Ourwe social media presence has definitely grown thanks toremains you our readers.

Look–for us and and like us Facebook and Instagram and follow us twitter.by Weextension, thank you forSummer your positive Inonthe Caribbean and throughout theonworld is awords timeand for reflection. It is that time feedback. Your efforts in assisting us by sharing the link and tagging your friends have not gone ofunnoticed. year when individuals from all over the globe visit Barbados for Crop Over which lasts from June to Remember, your actions will help encourage that young person, who may not be an August. this time, isartistic muchidea excitement in the asinthe Soca music could be heard on academicAround scholar but may have there a unique that can land him air or her ourbest magazine.

We will continue to embrace our smaller islands – St. Kitts, BVI. Dominica, Grenada – let us hear The season signifies the the radio, the parties and limes are plentiful and the drinks are forever flowing. from you. There are so many untapped forms of art that are waiting to be discovered. Who knows, last of the our sugar cane crophappen beingtoharvested by perusing pages you may be inspired. and is a celebratory event in Barbados.

Finally, be sure to check out our competitive advertising prices. You cannot beat the offerings listed

Inonthis issuenew of businesses our magazine, Summer evident.

We whose included a guide for plus size page3rd 48. With poppingthe up daily, there theme must be was someone you know business for needs a bit of a digital and tips Islandon Signatures just the media assist. women Kadooment, andpush some how to issurvive Crop toOver 2016. Also, we feature the Road to We encourage you to send your ideas with the promise that our team listens to feedback. As if this Crop Over whichenough, includes the finalist Soca Royale and Party Monarch.

We also issue isn’t exciting I can’t wait for our for 3rd release which highlight’s the 50th anniversary of took it to the streets of Barbados’ Independence!

Barbados to find out from Barbadians “What Does Crop Over Mean to You”, as well as provided this year’s Crop Over Calendar so you can select what events you will be attending next. In this edition, you will also Stay with us on this journey! meet two talented individuals Caleb Straker and Winslow “Rubytech” Jordan. Also check out the song bird Luanne Roberts-Hunte Sasha Melody and follow her success with her music.

Luanne Roberts-Hunte Editor-in-Chief

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Our social media presence has definitely grown thanks to you our readers. Look for us and like us on Facebook and Instagram and follow us on twitter. We thank you for your positive words and feedback.

Your efforts in assisting us by sharing the link and tagging your friends have not gone unnoticed.

Remember, your actions will help encourage that young person, who may not be an academic scholar but may have a unique artistic idea that can land him or her in our magazine. We will continue to embrace our smaller islands – St. Kitts, BVI. Dominica, Grenada – let us hear from you. There are so many untapped forms of art that are waiting to be discovered. Who knows, by perusing our pages, you may happen to be inspired.

We encourage you to send your ideas with the promise that our team listens to feedback. As if this issue isn’t exciting enough; I can’t wait for our 4th release which highlight’s the 50th anniversary of Barbados’ Independence! To all the socaholics and fete-a-holics, we wish you an exciting and fun-filled Crop Over Season, and please remember to be safe and drink responsibly.

Stay with us on this journey!

Justin Ellis Editor-in-Chief

Written By: Sherilyn Patrick

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What is your best creation thus far?

There is no best creation thus far because with improvement in techniques and increasing confidence, every creation is seen as better than the last one.

However, if asked if I have a favourite, I would have to say one would be a realistic Anubis I did on a guy’s chest.

What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?

I was always fascinated by tattoos. I love the art, the lifestyle and the creativity behind putting imagery in people’s skin. As an artist who also uses other media, tattooing is just one of the forms that I really, really found a home in.

How many tattoos do you have?

It’s hard to say because I’ve lost count a while ago. But I can tell you that at resent roughly 42% of my body is covered in artwork.

Do you find tattooing stressful?

No, this is what I love, my career choice, and once you do what you love you will never get frustrated but rather find the motivation to do it. You will get tired, we all do, but never frustrated.

Which tattoo artists do you look up to?

Troy Forde was the artist who trained me so I see him as a mentor. I have always respected the older guys like Jonathan Foster, and some of the international artistes that visit Barbados, especially “Trini” from Trinidad.

What advice would you give aspiring tattoo artists?

Always remember that tattooing is respected as an art form, and that you’re doing art on people’s bodies. You need to be sterile with your equipment, and you should always practise your artwork because it will determine the quality of your tattoos.

Do you have any other hobbies?

I research solarisation technology, things like how to charge phone batteries by using solar energy; and also building. I enjoy from furniture restoration to building leather arbours.

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Written By: Jamillah Rojas

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n artiste, that’s the word Ruby Tech uses to describe himself. Ruby Tech has been a barber for the past eight years after a colleague from the BCC Art Programme invited him to check out his barber shop. He free hands all his designs gaining inspiration from the client and what they want to physically represent. The head becomes another canvas and his artistry reigns.

Ruby Tech noted the Byrson Tiller and Chris Brown fade and hi top has become one of the most popular hair cuts as men have become into that quality cut and finish as it ties back with the image they want to portray or represent.

Despite his success, Ruby Tech faces some challenges when it comes to barbering ranging from fidgety clients, to the particular design the clients wants or clients not understanding the cost of the custom art work. Ruby Tech expressed that at times the job can become monotonous but the community he works in makes the job worth it.

He advised future barbers to work hard, always learn through experimenting and observation, don’t rush for greatness and there is money tobe made in barbering.

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THE RAZOR’S EDGE Island Signatures | 19

Highlights WRITTEN BY: SHAQUILLE LAYNE BACKGROUND VOCALS: ROCHELLE GRIFFITH 20 | Island Signatures PRODUCED BY: DECIBEL PRODUCTIONS

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Coconut Toto Written By: Roxanna D

Preparation time: 50 mins serves: 15 INGREDIENTS: ½ lb butter, slightly salted 1 cup granulated sugar 3 eggs 1 tsp vanilla essence 3 cups all purpose flour 3 tsp baking powder 1 tsp cinnamon ground pinch nutmeg, grated 2 cups coconut grated 1 pack Maggi Coconut Milk powder, dissolved in ½ cup of water METHOD: 1. Preheat oven to 400* F (200*C) 2. Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla and beat for 2 minutes longer 3. Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon and nutmeg 4. Add flour mixture and coconut to butter and sugar mixture alternately with Maggi Coconut Milk 5. Spread evenly in greased shallow baking tin.

Bake for 30 minutes.

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Adapted from www.myrecipes.com

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Damian Greaves (Student) The time of the year that Barbados embraces it culture through song, dance, and art.

Marita Simmons (Student) Crop over means coming together and expressing our pride and industry . Celebrating being bajan and exploring our culture

De Carla Applewhaite (Crop Over Enthusiast) Crop Over has evolved over time from the overly meaningful festival symbolising that the ‘Sugar Reaping’ Crop is Over. The long days and arduous work has whittled to the end, but through the years, its significance hasn’t. Its a time for Barbados to relax. To celebrate, live free, as it may, with revelry with friends and family in a corporate way.

It signals summer for us, its like a bajan new year. And after crop over a quiet sweeps over the land and we start preparing the crop for the next year!

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Jermaine Bourne It’s about recognition and celebration of our culture. The celebration of the last canes. It’s about the bands and the music and the competitions.

The food, the colors, the art forms. A time where we really come together as one at least for the moment. A time where regional integration, globalization and class divide fulfill their true purpose

Daniel Boxill (Writer) Noise, rum ,soca, Steel Pan... A chance to let go of inhibitions and enjoy yourself. A chance to take a break from normal life and let enjoy summer

Keshia Crop Over is Arguably one of the highly anticipated events of the year for Bajans and tourists. For me it’s all about the Authentic Bajan Experience, Costumes,Food,Music,People

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The Curvy Girl’s Guide To Kadooment What Is Crop Over?

Written by:Vanessa Phillips

Imostf you’re a native to Barbados or you’ve visited the island before, you probably know or have heard about the Crop Over season which

lasts from June to August. Around this time, there is excitement in the air as the best Soca music could be heard on the radio, the parties and limes are plentiful and the drinks are flowing. The season signifies the last of the sugar cane crop being harvested and is a celebratory event in Barbados.

The peak/climax of the season being the big “jump up” coined Kadooment day. On this day, all the pre-released tunes for the season blast from speakers on trucks, as revelers jump, dance and parade down the road behind them, displaying a beautiful array of costumes in a kaleidoscope of colors. The scene is “nuff vibes” for locals and visitors alike lining the routes just to take in the view.

I truly love this time of year. It really is a time for people to let go and just celebrate. This year I decided to take part in the festivities and join the thousands of revelers donning costumes. But is this day of fun really one that the plus size girl can enjoy? I assure you it is and I’m gonna highlight all the major steps of the journey towards the day here in the Curvy Girl’s Guide to Kadooment. This guide is to aid you through the process and encourage those who haven’t experienced it, to take the leap and MEET ME ON THE ROAD!!*Shurwyn Winchester song*

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Where To Get Costumes For Kadooment

B and launch season was fairly early this year with new costumes being displayed week after week. Most band launches not only give band leaders

an opportunity to display their latest designs but allow them to show those interested in masquerading, the kind of atmosphere they provide.

Essentially some of them are mini fetes, but it could be quite expensive to attend all the launches for the season. So save your money for when crop over actually starts and keep an eye on social media to see photo releases of the costumes. You can even go down to the band house to see them in person.

Now ladies, don’t be scared off by the skimpy bikinis and wire bras the models are wearing. The Curvy Girl’s Guide to Kadooment is here to show you that the day is a thing for us to enjoy too. Some bands offer options at an additional fee for more coverage including high waist panties, boy shorts, monokinis and even whole pieces.

A number of band leaders have started accommodating to people of all shapes and sizes so they feel comfortable considering the average consumer doesn’t look like the gorgeous model showcasing the costume.

The most flexible band I’ve seen this year was Fantasy Barbados, in that they offered the options mention above within each of their sections.

Xhosa Cacique Section by Simone Arthur also gets special mention too.

They have a special full figured section dedicated to plus sized ladies and they also provide high waist options for their other sections as well. Other bands that offer the high waist option and a larger bra size in select sections include, Aura, Erup the Band, Baje International and Day Two Celebrations.

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DAY Two Celebrations Plus Size

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Xhosa Plus SizeIsland Costumes Signatures |

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How to Survive the Weekend I

Written By:Sherilyn Patrick

t’s officially that time of the year when Barbadians and visitors from abroad come together to let down their hair and have a good time. That’s right…it’s Crop Over, and the partying is now getting started. Both men and women have saved up money to attend every fete, to pay gym memberships to ensure they have their ‘summer bodies’ ready, and to purchase the most appealing costume in their favourite Kadooment band. However, when all is said and done, Crop Over is also proof of who is the “fittest of the fittest”. So if you intend to be your best this Crop Over, here are some tips you need to remember.

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reat Your Body Well: Insomnia is all good on paper, but your body requires adequate rest

and relaxation in order to keep the pace. You should maintain a good balance between your hours of sleep and your hours of partying. Choose your fetes wisely, don’t end up wasting your money by falling asleep by the bar. Also, in the months leading up to your favourite events, exercise should be your ‘best friend’ to ensure you keep the stamina.

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ress Appropriately: Although it’s the ‘fun season’ dressing is still important. For daytime fetes/ parties with the sun’s heat waves as they are, it’s best to cover your skin to avoid sunburn or heat stroke by dehydration. Suntan lotion is an option, as well as stockings if you feel to wear your shortest shorts and tank tops. Not only does appropriate cover prevent you from sun damage but also from other infections you could pick up from being too exposed. Allergies to paint, certain soap foams and other jouvert additions can also be prevented by adequate skin cover.

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ace yourself with alcohol: “Pick your poison and know your limits.” If you’ve ever had a hangover, you know too well the awful feeling. In the middle of a fete is not the place to try new concoctions, stick to your ‘old reliable’ rum or mixed drinks. Also, try to have a bottle of water between every two alcoholic beverages to strike a balance.

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ll ah we is family” – look out for your friends: In the event that you’re partying with friends, and “ one of your friends does not see this article and hits the floor…make sure they’re safe. Take them to the car so they can sleep off the alcohol or tired feeling, slip out the party with them until they catch themselves, or call their parents let them come for her/him…LOL!

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f you’re going to enjoy Crop Over 2016, it makes sense to be prepared, energised and wise to survive. Make sure you have an awesome time and your monies worth of fun because when it’s all over, it makes no sense to have regrets!

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Written By: Luanne Roberts-Hunte

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asha Melody has been singing since the age of 3 years old. Her parents were born

in Guyana, but Sasha is the 1 st in her family to be born in the U.S. In school she was apart of the her High school Choir and took vocal lessons at the Academy of Performing Arts in Denver, Colorado.

At the age of 14 Sasha Melody performed at the “Performing Arts Olympics” named the World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood, California where she won 3 gold medals. This landed her a role as a dancer on the TV Show “Soul Train” with host Shemar Moore. Sasha remained on the show for 3 years.

By 2008 Sasha had performed in various cities in California, Louisiana, Florida and New York and appeared as a dancer in the music video for T.C. featuring Capelton called “Bounce” and by the time Sasha turned 21 she graduated from Five Towns College in Dix Hills, New York with a Bachelors Degree in the Music Business and gained internships with Universal Music Group, Atlantic Records and VP Records.

While living in New York, Sasha met Jason Lee who gave her the name “Sasha Melody” who she recorded a few songs, however they were never officially released.

Sasha Melody’s official debut single “Land of Soca” which was recorded in Trinidad and Tobago was released in 2013. Since then Sasha has performed in various carnivals and shows and recorded numerous songs. Her biggest song to date is “Bubblegum” which shows her writing abilities. After only 4 months of the song

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CONTACT INFORMATION CONTACT

INFORMATION More Than Gifts Tel: 1(246)820-0262 / 1(246)5370201 facebook: Morethangifts Instagram: More_Than_Gifts Email: atxpressions@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/ kerri.hortonwiltshire

JSG Coaching & Consulting Tel: 868-796-7741 Email: Joanna@jsgcoachingandconsulting.com Website: www.JSGcoachingandconsulting.com Sasha Melody Facebook: sashamelodymusic Instagram:sashamelody Twitter:SashaMelody1 Soundcloud: sashamelody Youtube:sashamelodymusic Ruby Tech Email: Dudigga@gmail.com Soundcloud: officialrubytech Instagram: officialrubytech Youtube:RubyTech Facebook: Razors-Edge or Rubytech Caleb Straker Instagram: tribeofleb Tel: 1(246) 284-0509

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Models: Nicolette Regis,Melissa Harris, Ashley Thornton, Nika,Shaquille Layne

Features: Caleb Straker (Tribe of Leb), Ruby Tech (Razor’s Edge), Sasha Melody, JSG Coaching & Consulting,More Than Gifts, Destination246 Special Thanks: Sherilyn Patrick , Jamillah Rojas ,Roxanna D , Vanessa Phillips ,Franz Gittens, Tremaine Agard , Luanne Roberts-Hunte ,De Carla Applewhaite,Daniel Boxill, Jermaine Bourne, Damian Greaves, Marita Simmons, Paula Lynch, Daresqué.

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