On-line family, we hope all of you are doing great!  LOL, I must say though many of you are extremely funny and quite honest when responding to questions I may ask from time to time. 

Hee…Hee…Hee…how appalling!  Soooo, I'm getting old huh?  Alright…Alright, [although very reluctantly] I have no choice but to accept the conclusion many of you came too regarding some instances I pointed out last week concerning the hot topic/question "Am I getting old".  LOL…for me, ignorance was bliss until I asked that wretched question!  Ha…ha…ha, it was indeed easier and blissful to ignore and be completely unaware of the changes happening around me.

Seriously though, the anxiety and insecurity that comes with realizing this fact is overwhelming.  So many questions rush to your head:  "Have I reached my goals?"  "Have I fixed all my problems?"  "Have I overcome my challenges, fears and obstacles that lay in my pathway?"  "Are we truly secure in life (financially and overall?")  "Have I discovered the point of my existence?"  "Have I done a successful job building and strengthening my relationships",  etc…etc…etc.  You then look ahead and try to take actions…actions that you feel will significantly change things or make it better so that these dreaded questions are answered immediately!!!!!! 

Out of all these responses, intriguing observations, some questions and even thoughts my ultimate conclusion to it all is: OLD IS JUST A WORD; and I AM NOT GETTING OLD, no…no…no way…I AM SIMPLY GETTING BETTER!  Right??? Ha…ha…ha!!!

This week was an interesting one!  Weird that so many answers came to me in so many different ways.  I was even exposed to different and new things, that I must quickly share with you. 

As for answers, I saw a documentary [movie] on Reggae and Dancehall music in Jamaica last weekend and it was enlightening.  My comments about the lyrics, specifically the music that has changed was explained a bit.  For instance Dancehall artist "Bounty Killer" (Rodney Basil Price), a young gentleman who is very intelligent and is doing great things; stated that he grew up in what they call the "Gully", and was just as poor as everyone else there and around the city of Kingston.  He stated he witnessed lots of killings, like so many other youths living there.  Actually, he was shot at the tender age of 15^th.  He pointed out that what he write and sings about IS WHAT HE KNOWS; it's just about what he grew up seeing and living.  As a matter of fact, this same explanation was echoed by many of the dancehall artists who were interviewed in this movie.

Of course, one would wonder why would he and many other dancehall artists not try to uplift the people with his/their music!!!  Actually, continue using their music as "A COMFORTER," and  a ways and means of giving the people dreams and hopes throughout the songs they sing.  Be mindful, that I am not only speaking of "Bounty Killer" in this instance, but of all the dancehall artists who have grown up in either the “Gully” or “Gaza”. 

I focused on the lyrics of a top dancehall artist whom I like very much and who I discovered is very popular in my place of birth (Trinidad), among other places ~ Dancehall artist "Vybe Kartel" (Adijah Palmer), and it goes something like this: "We ah kill each other, no body else ah kill we" [unfortunately I don’t know the name of the song]; but clearly he is definitely cognizant of what is taking place among his people and is saying it, but he must be a lot louder with the positive lyrics. 

I beg them all to really wake up, write, make music, and sing songs that is conscious; songs that do reflect their life but in a positive manner.  Songs that touches the souls of their followers (the youths).  I believe it was "Bounty Killer" himself who stated the following in this movie:  "Music is the Savior of the Ghetto"  Indeed it is!  Therefore, teach the youths through your music; so that they can be saved, and will be able to see ahead and move out and up of their unbelievable situation.  Give them positive hopes, positive dreams, and positive reasons to live to their fullest potentials.  

The different and new thing I was exposed too; that I am most pleased about is observing Brazilian Superstar (singer, actor, songwriter) "Seu Jorge" and his band "Almaz" as they put on a great performance at the 9:30 Club in Washington DC this past week.  Funny, I was "swinging alone" on Tuesday night when I ventured out to see this fantastic show, and what an experience it was for me.  Of course, the majority of his songs he sang in Portuguese, and I don't speak or understand Portuguese, so I was lost... LOL!  However, music is universal and therefore I totally enjoyed the music.  

Wow, he was fantastic and a true musician that played several instruments: the flute; and another instrument I could not distinguish, but it looked like some sort of a keyboard!  His appearance was nothing at all of what I expected; he was rather slender but very nicely built, and a tall fellow with a big voice, and pretty handsome.  For me, I reached my high point when he stated in English "I love the American Classics", and immediately began singing in English "My life…My…Life…My Life in the Sunshine~ ~ ~Everybody loves the sunshine" - A hit song of an incredible Jazz, Soul and Funk Composer and singer  - Mr. Roy Ayers ~ "Everybody Loves the Sunshine."  He had the crowd chuckling when he picked up his Heineken and took some sips.  Later in his set he literally rocked it with the King of Pop Michael Jackson’s famous "Rock with You."  It was awesome when he sang "I wanna rock with you", and the crowd answered "all night";  he followed with "Dance you into day", the crowd sang "sunlight."  He performed it so differently and unique.  He briefly talked about the struggles and changes taking place in Brazil (job losses, health care, etc.); and finally closer to the end of the show he did a little of what I was waiting for; some "Samba".  If you are familiar with the dance "Samba"  then you know how intriguing the foot movements are.  His was certainly intriguing and so very smooth.  He ended the dance with the classic [I call it the "Samba spin"], which was so very smoooooooth, and wow...real nice!!!

It was truly a super fabulous show, which had a great turnout.  I sincerely thank the venue ~ The 9:30 Club for the tickets they provided to us for our trivia ticket give-a-way.  The word from all our winners was that it was a great show, and they all had a wonderful time.  Thanks to you Ms. Choe and the 9:30 Club!!!

As for the many other events we had planned on attending over the past weekend; we understand they all were fantastic!!!  For a somewhat ~ small perspective on the Trinidad and Tobago Working Women’s Committee Fundraiser "As She Will Rise Again" for The Haiti Micah Project (An Orphanage that provides a home for Haiti's Street Children), read the "Thank You Message" below that was sent to us from the Chairperson of the Trinidad and Tobago’s Women’s committee Ms. Deanne Samuels.  Keep in mind donations are always being accepted so call any of the following members: Deanne Samuels, Chairperson -  (301) 792-2019); Annette Achille, Vice Chair - (301) 879-8449 ; Patricia Phillip, Secretary - (301) 439-9107;  Karen Amour, Treasurer - (301) 322-7129; Patricia St. Hill - (301) 574-2253.

Dear Susan & Todd:

Just a note to say thank you and to reconfirm that your online family is responsive and loyal.   Two qualities that yield success.

Our fundraiser for Haiti, held on Saturday, was well attended and you had an integral part to play.  Your support of this event was critical and proved to be helpful.

On behalf of the Trinidad and Tobago Working Women's Committee, Annette Achille, Patricia St. Hill, Patricia Phillip and Karen Barrington, THANK YOU!!

If we can ever be of assistance, do not hesitate to call on us.

Respectfully,
Deanne R. Samuels, Chair
T&T Working Women's Committee

Through the grapevine some weeks ago we heard some talk about Veteran/ Legendary Calypso King of the World " The Mighty Sparrow" (Slinger Francisco) was scheduled to performing in Maryland, but we didn’t get any solid word from the promoter/s.  Ironically though, a week ago before this show was scheduled to take place there were lots of talk/rumors on the internet (social networks) that The Mighty Sparrow had passed away; which obviously was untrue.  However, friends and associates informed us that indeed there was a show in Maryland that took place last Saturday (7/24), and it was a very good show; except that at the very end of  Sparrow’s performance he had fallen ill.  Below are some words from the Host of this Show Mr. Hollis “Flash” Lashley.  Additionally, Radio Personality John Blake (Host of The Caribbean Experience on WHUR 96.3 FM on Saturdays)  asked that we share with our readers the Official Press Release regarding this show and the Mighty Sparrows condition.  We at Arious hope that The Mighty Sparrow continues getting stronger and better.  Best of health to you our Legend Mr. Sparrow!!!!  CLICK HERE TO READ THE OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE.  

Just a journalistic Gift from "Flash" regarding the "Calypso on The Green" show that featured The Mighty Sparrow, Brown Boy and Kurt Allen.

The Sparrow Show was indeed a success. Entertainment was provided by Brown Boy who opened in his inimitable humorous vein, providing some of his memorable hits. He was followed by the reigning calypso Monarch, who was surprisingly mature in his musical and lyrical presentations. He not only paid tribute to the past giants in the field, but also acknowledged his responsibility to maintain the cultural and spiritual authenticity of calypso. He entertained the crowd, (which by the way was actively involved in the evening's happenings,) in a manner which clearly showed why he was the monarch. Hats off to Kurt Allen.

Now for the calypso King of the World. We have read the news and heard the rumors. The man is alive, his voice is powerful and of course he is not totally healthy. He sang his heart out, sitting, but present, belting out his classics with the passion which makes him who he is.  The Troubadors with Sunshine in the lead, backed him in a fashion which for them is a Sparrow staple. We all danced, applauded, sang along, hugged, wallowed in the presence, and recognized the genius of Sparrow.  Yes, he was exhausted, dehydrated, needed some medical assistance, which was provided by willing professionals who without hesitation, went to his aid, and as I understand, remained with him long enough to diagnose some type of Hernia.  Again, as I heard, he underwent a minor surgery which will hopefully take care of this problem.

Calypso On the Green was indeed a success.

Sparrow has many more songs to sing, I believe. He is not 100% but he surely is not yet ready to hang up his guns.  Our Caribbean and world community still has some heart to reach out when necessary to help, even if not everyone who needs it, at least some.

Out of tragedy, there is often a greater good which surfaces. Many of us are blessed, even when we do not recognize those angels among us. 

Thanks All, including Carlton Joseph, for a truly wonderful evening filled with Love, Laughter and Healing. See you on August 28 at the Pan Jazz.

The Lara Brother and Sister Birthday Cookout was on the schedule, but time did not permit us to attend; we are hopeful they will forgive us.  We do want to wish our friends both Vito and Debra Lara belated happy birthdays.  From all accounts it was a wonderful celebration.

Now to share with you Mr. Hollis "Flash" Lashley's motivating "FlashPoint".  We thank "Flash" for this week's installment Read the few words from "Flash" (below), as well as his inspiring and motivating "Flashpoint".  To purchase a copy of Mr. Hollis Lashley motivating book of poetry entitled "Gifts From The Heart" log on to: http://www.xlibris.com or http://www.holislashley.com.    

Be inspired and Motivated to increase your Spiritual Energy.  

Greetings from the Fountain of Love and Peace. Today is a Blessed day,

 and may every reader become a Blessing also. Today's Flashpoint is dedicated to Wilma and James, in honor of James' Birthday.   One Love!  Hollis [Flash] Lashley

"WHO ARE THE DISABLED?"

It's unusual that I am oblivious to what is really taking place in and around my area and beyond this weekend.  With the exception of Caribana in Toronto, Canada (Toronto, Canada Caribbean Carnival) and the excellent Reggae Singer Beres Hammond here in Virginia at The Wolf Trap on Sunday.  Definitely, we have no plans of heading to Canada, and Bares we will check out in Baltimore next week.  Therefore, it's going to be a cool one! Woohoo...Yeah...Yeah, a weekend with no commitments, and absolutely nothing to do!  Well, my husband Todd is talking about heading to Boston; hum...great idea, but my response was why?  He stated: Just because...!   LOL...Well, I guess we will have to make a final decision soon!!!

Next weekend though, the running begins again, because it's Norfolk, Virginia Caribbean Carnival (CaribFest) Legendary Reggae Singer Freddie McGregor is among the list of artist who will be performing.  Scroll below to view their flyer, and you will see that they are having a Boat Ride on Friday night.  Of course on Saturday the 7th is their Parade, followed by all the festivities in the park including performances by Washington DC's The Image Band; as well as Trinidad's Soca Band Traffik; along with Trinidad's Artists: Rikki Jai, Shel Marshall; and Buffy; and as I stated above Reggae Legend Freddie McGregor will be performing as well.

Remember on the 15th of August, here in Maryland will be the 1st Annual Caribbean Wine Festival presented by The Jamaica Promotional Company.  More detailed information is forthcoming about this event.  Actually, you can check our events page for their flyer.  We are also hearing lots of talk about Jamaica's Independence Festivities that will be taking place in the upcoming weeks.  I'm sure the designated folks will forward details to us, which we will certainly share with you in the coming weeks.

Finally, last week I shared the photos we captured of the Jamaica Day Reggae Outdoor Festival.  However, I only shared one (1) Album (by mistake).  There is a 2nd Album as well.  So CLICK HERE for Album II and if you have not seen Album I CLICK HERE to view.  Remember these Albums are powered by www.mycaribbean.us.  Therefore, you will have to be a part of the network to view, and to do so you will have to sign in.  If you are not, then go ahead and join; it is easy and will be completed in just a few clicks!!

Kindly check out the events we have spotlighted below under our "Featured Events" section .  Actually, check out all the events including all the upcoming events by logging on to our Events Page here.  

Have an enjoyable and fantastic weekend, and we will certainly vibe some more with you next week.

We welcome your input, so if you have any comment or feedback on the commentary or events - please feel free to send an e-mail to me Susan Mangatal at my e-mail address: susan@ariousentertainment.us or you can also reach me at ariousentertainment@earthlink.net.

Featured Events: For all our events please visit our "Events" Page.

There are a lot more exciting events that you must check out.  Therefore we invite you to visit our "Events" Page.

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