Greetings On-Line Family!

Indeed home is where one feels whole, and we are back in our lovely home after having the most dynamic time traveling and enjoying the lovely cities of Miami and Key West, as well as the Island of Cozumel in Mexico. 

Before I share some of the highlights with you, I need to let you know that I am so very aware that these are some extremely stressful times, and many of us have constantly been experiencing fear and uncertainty that surrounds us in our everyday life during these times.  For many of us a vacation is ALL WE NEED to make things a bit easier on our mind, body and soul, but some of us just can't seem to get away, nor have the funds to make it possible.  Quite often I find myself worrying about some of these same issues, so be assured that I know what many of you are feeling and experiencing.  However, I urge you NOT to worry because this small NEED you have will become a reality.  It's a blessing that our small business allows us to travel and experience so many different things, and we are gratified that we are able, and have the means to share many of these experiences with you.   Perhaps, our experiences will put a smile on your face, because you will be experiencing and gaining knowledge about so many different things through us...LOL!

You must remember (through my recent commentaries) how much I was looking forward to our annual trip to lovely Miami Florida; not only to experience the Caribbean Carnival, but most importantly to chill, unwind, and become re-energized.  Essentially, so that our bodies, soul and mind are invigorated, refreshed and at ease in order for us to continue focusing on our goals and on the pathway we have created to achieve them.  Needless-to-say, this years' trip was all we expected and more...it was truly divine!

From the moment we boarded the plane and settled in for the short 2 hour trip to our destination, everything seemed to slow down and our worries drifted away.  The flight was cool and the airline staff was witty and pleasing.  Arrival was awesome because Miami was, sunny, 97 degrees and thrilling.  Our stay in this electrifying city was fantastic, but different than we planned.  Instead of constantly drinking Mojitos and chilling at our favorite bars and attending concerts & fetes (parties), we spent long hours (night and day) on the balcony of our glorious hotel room which overlooked Biscayne Bay -  talking, laughing, dream building, strategizing, and critiquing our plans.  Only to be distracted from time to time by the many boats speeding or cruising past our room heading to the open sea and to the small island located in the middle of the Bay.  Dinners were interesting because it was nice exploring many of the seafood restaurants.  

The Caribbean Carnival  - "One Carnival" (Miami and Ft. Lauderdale combined) was large and truly entertaining.  We were told there were 35 bands, but I disagree because it seemed the parade would never end.  As we walked towards each band while taking pictures and capturing them on video, there were miles and miles of bands heading toward us.  The Mas bands were diverse, the costumes were lovely as usual, and the sound on most of the trucks was booming...So awesome!  As far as events, there were quite a few of them taking place each night, which had us wondering how the promoters did as far as making money, with so much competition. TO VIEW THE PHOTOS WE CAPTURED AT MIAMI'S CARIBBEAN "ONE CARNIVAL" 

FOR PHOTO ALBUM 1 CLICK HERE!  FOR PHOTO ALBUM II, PLEASE CLICK HERE! AND FOR PHOTO ALBUM III - PLEASE CLICK HERE!

The beaches were excellent.  Actually, one special night in trendy South Beach after a late dinner and a few glasses of wine we took off our shoes and walked along the water's edge.  Oh...the water was so lovely as the waves splashed across our feet, and the sky was tantalizing - just filled with twinkling stars.  And as we stopped to focus on the beautiful reflection of the moon on the dancing water we could see clearly the many couples cuddling on the beach, as well as cuddling in the water...So Very Beautiful!

We did get around to attending the "Annual South Beach Last Lap Party" that was hosted by some of Washington DC's, (DMV) finest Promoters: East Coast Caribbean Events and Mixx Productions, and as usual they featured several DMV's top DJs: Super Slice, Smally (the Golden Touch) and Shiloh International.  We totally enjoyed this event because as Todd stated: "the music was RIGHT, and we were kept entertained,)" the bartenders were attentive, attractive, very pleasant and seem to be enjoying the music as much as we did; so much so that from time to time they broke out in dance.  The Venue surprisingly allowed smoking (the bartenders seem to be stunned that we asked.)  Todd who has cut back substantially on the smoking was having so much fun that he pulled out his cigarettes and enjoyed a few as he rocked to the music while sipping on his wine.  After hours of chilling and vibing to the music, we said our good nights to so many people from our area and thanked Mike Turner and DJ Andy Mixx for their courtesy, hospitality and providing such good vibes.  It was a short drive to our hotel where we began preparing and packing for the anticipated 2nd portion of our working vacation...The Cruise.

The MyCaribbean and Arious Entertainment Cruise on Carnival's Imagination Cruise Ship started off fantastic.  Early Check-In of our Luggage onto the ship, as well as returning our rental vehicle all transpired without a glitch.  An early lunch at a nice local restaurant, was even better.  Our rental car company staff happily shuttled us to the Port of Miami and everything continued being flawless.  Once we got our "sign and sail" card the fun began.  If you have been on a cruise before, then you know from the minute you walk on the ship there is a camera in your face snapping away (All pictures taken upon arrival and throughout the cruise are available for purchase during the entire cruise).  A buffet lunch was available on one of the decks for the cruisers pleasure.  Our room was all we expected, and the view of the ocean and sky was fantastic.  Not too many of our MyCaribbean friends made it, but we were happy to have the 15 who was able to get away during these troubling times.  By the way, it was nice to have a friend - Mr. Preddie from the DC Caribbean Carnival Board of Directors with us on the cruise.  Mr. Preddie and I managed the Vending Department of DC Caribbean Carnival while I was serving on the board some years ago.

Despite all the crazy activities and contests, as well as gambling, bingo, rum tasting, a wide variety of foods and drinks, as well as Broadway type shows we spent most of our time hanging out on the decks, gazing at the deep blue ocean and the incredible sky that was always cloudless and filled with millions of stars at night.  The formal dinners were great, and being with folks who we had something in common with, and to spend some time with was wonderful. Listening to their daily adventures was interesting as well.  

Our first stop was Key West which was beautiful, actually we visited several islands of the Florida Keys many years ago and we found so much had been built since our last visit (of course).  We walked through the city streets, did a pepper tasting, a little shopping and finally stumbled on a small beach.  My intention was to kick off my shoes and walk into the clear shallow water to cool off a bit; but that never happened because as I slipped off my shoe and focused at the water, to our surprise there were lots of baby sword fish swimming around, as well as some baby eels very close to the water's edge.  Well, my thought of cooling my feet in the water was blown and Todd couldn't help bursting into laughter at the expression on my face as I spotted the sword fish.  He kept bothering me and asking if I was still going into the water to cool off.  After several hours of exploring Key West, it was back on the ship for rest, relaxation, food, and drinks.  The ship departed the Florida Keys and headed to Mexico to the small island  "Cozumel".  The night sky over the Caribbean Sea was breathtaking, it was filled with stars that were over active.   Stars that constantly darted either toward us or across the dark sky, which was an absolute incredible sight.  Seeing them fall out of the sky so frequently, at such a rapid speed & rate, and watching them fade away as they got closer to us here on earth was awe inspiring.  Todd said out loudly as if the stars were listening "Hey there...you know my standing wish, and I would certainly appreciate it if it was granted."  Gosh, Todd was having such an unbelievable time star gazing that if he could have slept on the deck (had it not been for my objection,) I know he would have.  He always seemed hesitant about leaving such loveliness.

By the following day as we approached Mexico, while hanging out on the deck watching the island of Cozumel come into view; from no-where below us was a school of dolphins swimming beside the ship, and from time to time diving excitedly up, out and back into the water, their gray bodies glistening in the sun, this too was a fascinating sight.  Some hours after we docked in Cozumel  we departed the ship, took a taxi to the town of Cozumel to explore a bit, had a delicious lunch at an authentic Mexican restaurant, tossed back some tasty tequila shots, and for me an additional very large Margarita, we then walked around the town and did a little shopping.  Finally, we ended our day in Cozumel Mexico sitting on a Donkey driven carriage as we rode back to the Cruise Ship.  (Unfortunately, we scratched our plans of exploring the Maya Ruins due to us not being able to justify the fee for the tour.  However, we intend to explore the Ruins on our next trip to Cozumel.) 

The next day and night we were at sea, and we spent lots of the time rotating between the deck and our room watching/viewing the sky, and the beautiful sea.  We were transfixed on the strange flying fishes as they darted from the water and took flight into the air for a little ways and then dived back into the water.  At night after dinner and great conversation with friends we were back at star gazing and flying fish watching.

Truly, this time away from everything was magnificent for us.  The relaxation and quietness we experienced, as well as meeting some of the people we converse with through the MyCaribbean social network and through the Arious Entertainment On-Line family network and E-Newsletter was terrific.  This Cruise to meet and greet many of our on-line family and friends was brilliant, and we thank all of you who was able to join us.  We truly enjoyed meeting and spending time with you.  THANKS TO ALL OF YOU OUR FRIENDS, OUR TIME WITH YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR MEMORY - IT WAS TRULY SPLENDID!

Our day in Miami before returning home was far from normal, but it was nice, we were able to spend some time on South Beach, enjoyed a scrumptious lunch at one of the chic restaurants, and checked out the "cool" beach, where I was afforded the opportunity to walk along/and in the water.  

Now that we are home, back to business and to our daily grind we are rejuvenated and ready to go full steam ahead again.  Actually, we are WHOLE AGAIN!  We are now planning our next meet and greet, and will certainly let you know the details very soon!

WE HAVE 1000s OF PICTURES, BUT IT WILL TAKE SOME TIME TO UPLOAD AND EDIT THEM.  I AM HOPEFUL THAT THEY WILL BE ADDED TO OUR SITE IN A WEEK OR SO!

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is a very important because it brings awareness to several important issues and causes that are near and dear to my heart.  Last week I talked about Breast Cancer Awareness, and this week I must spend a little time on Domestic Violence.  

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month - The 22nd Annual Observance.

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month is observed every October across the country. National, state, and community organizations for violence prevention and victim services, businesses, health care providers, and others mark the month with educational programs, recognition and memorial ceremonies, community outreach, and other efforts.

 

TO READ PRESIDENT BARACK H. OBAMA'S PROCLAMATION FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.  

Domestic Violence in some way affects us all, and it's a known fact that it's about POWER and CONTROL!  It's best defined as a pattern of abusive and controlling behavior that one partner uses against another in an intimate relationship.  Behaviors which includes physical (battering/Family violence), sexual and verbal abuse, economic coercion and other intimidating behaviors.  It has crossed all barriers, all racial and all economic lines.  Actually, chances are every one in this world knows someone, even in their families, who has been hurt by a spouse or loved one.  The National Domestic Violence Hotline's (NDVH) is focusing heavily on prevention and intervention, they believe the best solution for our nation's families is that they never experience violence in the first place, and the purpose of primary prevention efforts is to stop violence from occurring in future generations and to leave a lasting legacy of safety and respect within all families.  

I'm not sure if you are aware that even though there have been significant efforts for many years to address the problem of domestic violence in our nation, approximately 33 million+ women continue to experience abuse every year (men's violence against women).  Mind you it's no longer just women experiencing abuse, it has now expanded to include men, many who are in same-sex relationships.  There are some cases where men who are in heterosexual relationships become victims as well.  Facts indicate that women who are at greater risk for experiencing violence from an intimate partner are young women between the ages of 16-24, women living in poverty (women with annual incomes of less than $10,000 experience significantly higher rates of violence).

Any violence taking place within a family or intimate relationship is domestic violence. It includes abuse of spouses, girlfriends and boyfriends, children, and elderly people. Domestic violence cuts across all socioeconomic, ethnic, racial, religious, and age groups.

Studies show that children who witness violence at home experience behavioral problems and increased aggression, have less developed social and conflict resolution skills, and may suffer long-term developmental effects. These youth are also at risk of engaging in future violence and of being abused themselves. Researchers have found that people who batter their partners are also more likely to abuse their children.

Experts believe that domestic violence is not about stress, anger or "out of control" behavior but is instead a choice.  They also believe men who batter choose to use violence against, or seek to maintain power over their partners, while using this power and control tactics to commit their violent acts to their partners; which of course is done to induce fear and intimidation.  (Keep in mind these violent acts are never done outside the family setting.)  Another important fact is that men who use violence against their partners also can be abusive to their children, and if not abused physically, then they are used as another tactic of abuse toward the mother.  Actually, most women try to deny the abuse, make excuses for it, and they often hide it and don't even tell their families or friends, because most women (foolishly) don't want to leave their husbands, they simply just want the violence to end.  In many cases too, they hide it because of the fair of being harmed more severely by their abusive partners. They also fair if they are to tell someone they would be encouraged to end the abusive relationship, which leaves them contemplating some difficult issues/choices, such as: threats of violence, intimidation, economic dependence and concern for their children.  As we all know the risk of homicide increases when a victim is attempting to separate from an abusive partner (statistics and headlines have revealed murders and murder/suicides takes place when a victim has filed for a protective order or seeks divorce.)

Gosh, if you are experiencing domestic abuse, or if you know of someone who is experience domestic abuse, please do something to stop it.  

On a personal note, I recall mentioning in a previous e-newsletter some years ago during my childhood growing up in Trinidad Domestic Violence was all around me.  So much so that I thought it was a normal and natural part of life.  I am now comfortable with talking about it openly.  

I have witnessed many women of my family being battered and sadly even my mother on several occasions.  I vividly remember the tears, the fears, the uncertainty, and most importantly the unstableness of our lives.  The running off with Mom without a penny in her pocket and having no where to stay with only the refuge of Mount Saint Benedict Benedictine Abbey (Roman Catholic Order)  in St. Augustine/Tunapuna, (which was not far from our home in T'dad.)  Always having to return home to the same awful abusive cycle and the worry for my mom, my brothers and my safety was always a pressure on my young mind.  It was too much to bear as a child and I know my brothers were suffering with the same stresses and fears I was.  The standard excuse and comment among our family was "...your dad or your uncle get so ignorant and abusive when he drinks...but it's nothing, he loves me and I love him".  (Yeah right...pure BULL  I would reply, "if he loved you he wouldn't hit or abuse you, and besides abusing someone is not a way for anyone to show their love.")  

Thankfully, this abusiveness has stopped in my Mom's life for a number of years now due to her strength and her decision to walk away from the craziness.  Actually, Mom and Dad are still married, but are living separate lives and in separate homes.  Funny, at our recent visit to Trinidad my dad constantly professed his love for Mom, but his confessions were spoken to ears that has long been deaf to his words.  Much love to my dad though (after all he is my father), and from what I understand he has changed...Thankfully!  Unfortunately, one of my uncles (my father's brother) is still very abusive verbally and physically, and no one seems to want to put a stop to it.  My aunt never seems to stand up to her husband, so this abuse could/would stop.  Their kids try to keep him straight, but they are not always at their mom's side.  So until my aunt put her foot down in order for the madness to stop, the abusiveness will continue.  

One pleasant thing I have noticed with the men of my family in my generation (my brothers and cousins) is: they DO NOT have the mentality of their dads.  They strive to be the best fathers and husbands, without having the madness they have witnessed  hunt their lives and relationships.  I am so glad to see this and have so much love, respect and pride for them for their lovingness to their family.

It's obvious I am very passionate about this issue.  However, I am uncertain about the Domestic Violence support and groups that are available in Trinidad.  I must spend some time learning more about what help is available in Trinidad, so as of today I have committed myself to finding out.

As I spent some time educating myself more about the safety tips of Domestic Violence, I came across the "National Coalition Against Domestic Violence."  I noticed they had stated a project along with Ms. Magazine called "Remember My Name" in 1994, which is a national registry of names created for those who have lost their lives to Domestic Violence.  As I viewed the names I was stunned of how many scrolled before my eyes, which never to come to an end.  I understand this registry has approximately 7, 753 people listed/memorialized.  However, the names never seemed to come to an end.  CLICK HERE TO SEE THIS REGISTRY AND TO TAKE A MOMENT TO REMEMBER THOSE LIVES THAT WAS LOST TO THESE SENSELESS CRIMES, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY TO OBTAIN INFORMATION REGARDING ADDING A NAME. 

There are many resources for you to reach out to for help, such as: battered women's shelters, community-based organizations, activists within communities of color, faith-based groups, government officials and even policy makers, whom all have played a part in shaping our nation's response to the violence.  Intervention is very important, so don't feel dreadful about intervening you might be saving a life.  Click on the following for help: Do You Know A Woman Being Battered?; Do You Think You Might Be Abusing?  

Help is available to anyone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Hotline advocates are available for victims and anyone calling on their behalf to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, information and referrals to agencies in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Assistance is available in English and Spanish with access to more than 170 languages through interpreter services. If you or someone you know is frightened about something in your relationship, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−SAFE (7233) or TTY 1−800−787−3224 or check their website: www.ndvh.org.

If you want to read some more details on domestic violence visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website: www.ndvh.org or again feel free to call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or (TTY) 1-800-787-3224.  You can also visit the following sites: (1) www.menstoppingviolence.com; (2) www.endabuse.org; and (3) www.nnedv.org 

Local Hotlines: MARYLAND - www.oag.state.md.us/Family/dvhotlines.htm or www.dccadv.org/resources_md.html#hotlines 

WASHINGTON DC: DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCCADV): 202-299-1181; DC Rape Crisis Center: 202-333-RAPE (7273); Domestic Violence Support Center: 202-347-3090; Men Can Stop Rape: 202-265-6530; SOS Center (DCCADV): 202-889-8878; and Domestic Violence against Men: click the following: Help for Battered Men or  www.menweb.org/battered/gjdvdata.htm  

WEAR PURPLE TO BRING AWARENESS, AND TO HELP WITH STOPPING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE!

Directly after returning from Florida last Saturday, we were off to Washington DC to be a part of the Diamonds XCEL, Inc. Teen Talent Contest.  It's a thrill being a part of this event simple because its main purpose is to promote teen talent, and it's always good to work with teens because they are our future.  

The teens who auditioned were from the Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia areas, and they were quite talented.  I was a member of the distinguished judges, and the evening was filled with awesome stage presence, fantastic voices, and great performances.  Our youths are so talented and I am happy to be a part of such a professional team of men and women, who are the judges as well as the producers and directors of this fantastic event.  

12 finalists made the cut and will be competed  for the grand prize of $1,500.00 + additional gifts on November 14th.  Look out for all the final details on the competition which will be taking place at Zanzibar on-The-Waterfront.  By the way confirmed celebrated judge and guest will be Father of Hip Hop and now Ordained Minister Curtis Blow.

We were informed by one of our respected Reggae promoter's - Sister Dera Tompkins (who is very active in the Caribbean community here in the DMV area) about a play that is now running at the Folger Theatre until November 29th.  The play Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing?" is a very hip updated version of his (Shakespeare's) romantic comedy with a multi-ethnic cast, and is set in modern-day Wash. DC during DC's Caribbean Carnival.  I understand from Sister Dera that there is a DJ on stage who sets the scenes with musical selections from the Caribbean and Black America.  From what I read, this play seems fascinating.  Click on the flyer above on the right to get the details, or scroll down to the "Featured Events" Section.

To learn more about this interesting play check out the Folger Theatre's Website at

Feel free to always comment regarding any of my past E-Newsletter commentaries, and I thank you for all the intriguing and thought provoking comments you send me on a regular basis.  As usual, I am eager to hear your thoughts on all I wrote above, so I look forward to having you share them with me: susan@ariousentertainment.us. 

As I close, I ask that you please check out our "Featured Events" below! Additionally log on to our  "Events" page to see all the events we are informed of.  Additionally, if you would like to share your thoughts on any of the issues above,  feel  free to send it directly to me at:  susan@ariousentertainment.us.

Have a great weekend  

PLEASE BE SAFE

FEATURED EVENTS To Enter The "Events" Page Check out our "Featured Events" listed below.   Also, there are several events taking place, so to view all the Events please log on to our "Events" Page above! Starting October 21-Nov. 29 - Washington DC   October 24, 2009 - Washington DC Cultural Convergence: Columbia Heights Heritage Trail Unveiling & Neighborhood Celebration Unveiling: 1:00pm  @ Civic Plaza - 14th Street between Kenyon Street and Park Road With Council members Jim Graham and Mary Cheh, WAMU's Kojo Nnamdi, celebrated DC author Marita Golden, and the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers Trail Walk: 2 - 4 pm Free! October 24, 2009 - Brooklyn New York November 1, 2009 - Beltsville Maryland November 14, 2009 - Washington DC Featured Caribbean Social Network - LOG ON...JOIN...MAKE IT YOURS!