The Crucible OnLine ...

Will AfricanCanadian students achievement improve?

2009-03-01T14:08:00.003-05:00

Dr. Chris Spence is the Toronto District School Board’s first AfricanCanadian Director.

Will AfricanCanadian students achievement improve?

TDSB Announces New Director of Education

Award-winning educator Dr. Christopher Spence was confirmed by Trustees as the Toronto District School Board’s next Director of Education at a special board meeting Sunday. Dr. Spence will be assuming the reins of Canada’s largest and most complex school board in time for the 2009/2010 school year. He leaves behind a successful legacy at the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board, where he has served as Director of Education since 2004. “In our search for the next Director, we considered candidates from Canada, the US and abroad, and we’re extremely pleased that we have succeeded in securing such an outstanding educator as Dr. Spence,” said Board Chair John Campbell.

More

Lord Tanamo suffers stroke

2009-01-25T16:17:00.001-05:00

Lord Tanamo suffers stroke; abandoned in Canadian nursing home

Basil Walters, Observer staff reporter
Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Lord Tanamo had a stroke last year June that has left him unable to speak.

Pioneer ska singer Lord Tanamo has lost his ability to speak and is now living in the Lincoln Place of Nursing Home, Toronto, Canada. The 74-year-old former vocalist of the Skatalites Band has had a stroke that has left him unable to speak for some time now.

In an e-mail sent to his booking agent Brian Keyo of Tallawah Entertainment, Lord Tanamo's doctor Michael J Taylor expressed concern that the friends and family of the veteran entertainer, born Joseph Gordon, are not aware of his condition or whereabouts.

"Sadly, Mr Gordon has had a stroke that has left him unable to speak. Over the last several weeks, he has had no visitors and we have had limited success in contacting any family members," stated Dr Taylor who is also calling on the wider music fraternity.

"I'm hoping that you can assist me in locating anyone who would be interested in visiting Mr Gordon and providing him with support in this difficult time," he pleaded.

Locally, organisations with mandates to offer such support are the Jamaica Association of Vintage Artistes and Affiliates (JAVAA), the Jamaica Federation of Musicians (JFM) as well as the Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports.

Born in Kingston in 1934, at 20 years of age, Joseph Abraham Gordon, who in time became known as Lord Tanamo, made his earliest recording in 1954 for Jamaica's first music producer, Stanley Motta, which was a mento style release called Crinoline Incident.

As an exponent of the rumba box (an essential element of mento), Lord Tanamo helped to create the ska beat by combining elements of calypso gleaned from Lord Kitchener's songs. As lead vocalist and emcee for the Skatalites he recorded his best known song, I'm In The Mood For Ska.

After the Skatalites broke up, Lord Tanamo was employed by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and travelled to Canada where he played mento and reggae at cultural events.
Eventually he emigrated to Canada where his Toronto Mento Group became the Toronto-based quartet for the late keyboardist/composer, Jackie Mittoo.

On a return trip home he recorded a cover of Brook Benton's Rainy Night In Georgia which remained seven weeks at number one on the Jamaican hit parade. And on another visit to Jamaica he recorded for producer Bunny Lee, an album called Calypso Reggae.

In June 1983, the Skatalites reformed for the first time. And under the auspices of a reunion gig, Lord Tanamo gave a sensational performance at Herbie Miller's Blue Monk Club in Kingston.

On his self-produced set in 1994, called Skamento Movement, Tanamo compiled 15 of his ska and reggae tunes. After a tour of Europe with Germany act Dr Ring Ding and Senior All Stars, out of which came the album, Best Place in the World, at the 2002 Legend of Ska Concert in Toronto, Lord Tanamo led a mento quartet that performed between the ska sets.

Those shows were filmed and are currently being shopped as a documentary of the Jamaican version of Buena Vista Social Club. Such is the measure of the trailblazing Jamaican artiste who is now forgotten and abandoned in a nursing home in Canada.

CTV.ca | Luther Brown: Back in T-dot

2008-06-18T00:34:00.002-05:00

Luther Brown: Back in T-dot

Updated Tue. Jun. 17 2008 12:31 PM ET

Lindsay Zier-Vogel, CTV.ca

Renowned choreographer, Luther Brown spent his childhood in a radio station, and in fact, didn't step foot in a dance studio until 2000. So how he one of the top choreographers in North America, working with artists like Janet Jackson, Shawn Desman and Toronto's own Jully Black?

"I observe," he says, "I always have. I just soak it all in." From watching musicals growing up, and then music videos as he grew older, Brown has broken the trend of dancing first, then becoming a choreographer. Instead, he became a choreographer in his own right. "Not everyone took the route I did -- it's unique," he says.

"Luth-er! Luth-er!"

After first making his name in Toronto, then New York and now in LA, Brown is ecstatic to be back in his hometown. But as thrilled as he might be, he's nowhere near as excited as the competitors. The moment he walks out of the wings, the dancers are on their feet giving him a raucous standing ovation and chanting "Luth-er, Luth-er."

With so much of Canada's dance talent heading to the States, he's thrilled to be able to offer dancers in Toronto the opportunity to be seen in their own country. "I'm so glad I'm on this [panel], 'cause this is stuff we've been doing forever and now we get to bring it to the front."

"Toronto's a lot of everything. There are a lot of trained kids, and a lot of street kids -- b-boys and hip hops dancers. It's gonna be a beast."

Growing up in the 'hood

Brown spent much of his youth in Jane and Finch in the north end of Toronto and before he even knew what outreach was, Brown was engaged in community-building work, bringing art and music to kids in his 'hood.

His father, Luther Brown Sr., runs Caribbean Crucible, a reggae radio program on the community radio station out of York University. During the summers, Brown would bring his friends in to take over for his dad.

Hosting the show with the now-famous singer, Jully Black, he would delegate the rest of the responsibilities to his friends. "I didn't think I was a leader, but my dad took me aside later and broke it down for me. I took a lot of kids people couldn't control and focussed them -- [giving them tasks and responsibilities]."

"We just did it"

Expanding on his skills at the radio station, Brown worked at the Driftwood Community Centre, creating arts programming for under-privileged youth. "There were just so many kids that were hungry to do stuff, so we just did it," he says, referring to his comprehensive arts programming that included dance, film, visual art and musicals.

Having grown up in Kingston, Jamaica, a place Brown describes as "Brooklyn meets South Central", Brown says he related to his participants because he knew what it was to "live in the 'hood."

"But, he adds, "I also knew what it was to strive for different things."

Telling stories

It was at Driftwood that Brown started making dance troupes. "But then, I didn't know what a choreographer was. I just knew that I could put together a crew, get a routine happening, organizing and overseeing everything."

His love for narrative and musicals shaped these original creations: "I was always telling stories physically. There was always a story and characters behind my choreography."

Brown took his love for story-telling to the University of Windsor where he studied English Literature and Black History. But while he was there, he couldn't leave his love of dance behind, so Brown created the university's step and dance teams.

Doin' Dat

While studying in Windsor, Brown was frustrated by a lack of support and recognition for Toronto street dancers. Being the go-getter that he is, Brown founded Do Dat Entertainment -- originally a dance group that morphed into an agency, a school and now even provides artist development for Toronto's leading performers.

The lineup in Toronto was full of Brown's students, who said that though he can be a clown in his workshops, he definitely knows when to get to work. "You have to be on top of yourself," one hip hopper said. "You have to push yourself and you have to be serious."

Another dancer added, "If you're not serious about it, there's just no room for you."

From teaching to judging

Brown believes his role as a teacher will help him as a judge. "My angle as a judge is to find diamonds in the rough and make them hot. I really want to find the best well-rounded dancer," he says, smiling behind his Versace shades.

And what is Brown looking for in a dancer? "You've got to have skill and you've got to be clean," he says. "You don't just want to learn the steps, but understand how to perform the steps.

"You need to take the movement and add yourself to it, make it fresh -- that's the choreographer's dream."

2008-04-14T16:50:00.002-05:00

Mikey Dread. Dead at 54

2008-03-16T11:22:00.006-05:00

From: Versionist.com

Entertainment Update March 2008!.

It is with great sadness that we at West Indian Times have to report that Michael 'Mikey Dread' Campbell who was always 'The Dread At The Control' has passed away. Mikey passed away at approximately 6:50pm Eastern Standard Time on Saturday, March 15th, 2008. He was surrounded by his family in the home of his sister in Connecticut at the time of his passing.

We had reported in October 2007 that Mikey had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and that he was fighting with all his might to recover from his illness. Mikey constantly remained upbeat and hopeful for a full recovery so that he could continue doing what he loved; spreading Jah music to the world.

Mikey's family including his children; 2 sons from Jamaica, a daughter who lives in Houston, TX, a son who lives in Canada, a daughter who lives in Belize, and his 4 month old son Zylen Jahlight had been close by in the last few months as he fought to stay with them. We will keep you updated as service arrangements are made. West Indian Times sends our deep condolence to the family and friends of Mikey Dread. His passing is a great loss to the Universe. He will be greatly missed. Mikey, may your soul rest in eternal peace.'

Rest In Heavenly Peace Mikey Dread
www.myspace.com/zacheousjacksonmuzic

From: The Jamaican Observer

Mikey Dread, gone from the control
Hailed as one of reggae greatest innovators

By Basil Walters Observer staff reporter
Sunday, March 16, 2008

Radio disc jock Mikey Dread is dead. He succumbed to a brain tumour late yesterday afternoon at his family home in Connecticut, USA at the age of 54. Born Michael Campbell in Port Antonio, Jamaica, he distinguished himself as an extraordinary studio engineer and presenter at the now defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) where he came to prominence in the 1970s as "The Dread-the-Control Tower", the name of the late night show he presented at a time when reggae music was scoffed at by many.

From: CaribbeanCricket.com

The Dread at the Controls

Mikey Dread, gone from the control
Hailed as one of reggae greatest innovators
By Basil Walters Observer staff reporter
Sunday, March 16, 2008

Radio disc jock Mikey Dread is dead. He succumbed to a brain tumour late yesterday afternoon at his family home in Connecticut, USA at the age of 54. Born Michael Campbell in Port Antonio, Jamaica, he distinguished himself as an extraordinary studio engineer and presenter at the now defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) where he came to prominence in the 1970s as "The Dread-the-Control Tower", the name of the late night show he presented at a time when reggae music was scoffed at by many.

Mikey Dread... hailed as one of reggae's greatest innovators
One of reggae's greatest innovators and original radio engineers/technicians, the past student of Titchfield High School, in

2006 celebrated the 30th anniversary of the night programme which he started at the JBC, and revolutionised the after midnight shift making it into the most popular slot on radio, by playing strictly dub music. This innovation is seen by many musicologists as the antecedence of dancehall as we now know it.

Upon leaving the JBC, Mikey Dread ventured into recording and scored with a number of releases such as Weatherman Skanking in combination with Ray I, Barber Saloon, Love the Dread, as well as albums such as Dread at the Control, Evolutionary Rockers and World War III. Over time he attracted the attention of British punk rockers, The Clash, who invited him to produce some of their music, the most famous of which is their single Bankrobber, and contributed to several songs on their 1980 album, Sandinista. Mikey Dread also toured with The Clash across Britain, wider Europe and the US.

He also worked closely with producer Trevor Elliot to launch musical career of singer Edi Fitzroy, who was then an accountant at the JBC. As the news of his passing surfaced yesterday, the Sunday Observer got comments from a number of persons in the media and the music fraternity, all of whom hailed Mikey Dread as a significant contributor to the development of Jamaican music. "His (Mikey Dread's) work, is not only national or regional, but also international," former JBC's journalist Leslie Miles noted. "It spanned the world scene and made Mikey a pioneer broadcaster for playing dub music, and also redefined aspects of radio, especially night time radio" Miles, who is now head of news at Bess FM, also spoke of the struggle Mikey Dread faced at the conservative JBC. Music consultant Colin Leslie pointed out that the consequence of the "fight" he received from the management was putting him on at night, but that backfired.

"Remember he is a Portlander, so I always appreciated the fact that we shared the same alma mater (Titchfield High School), that is something I've always cherished and I hold him in high esteem. Although he was ahead of my era, he was somebody who laid an awesome foundation and was very unique and highly respected," was how Richard "Richie B" Burgess of Hot 102, remembered Mikey Dread.

"We were at JBC together, and in those days when he started at the JBC dreads weren't popular on the air. The powers that be in management really gave him a fight," Ali McNab told the Sunday Observer.

"Michael Campbell, is someone who revolutionised radio in Jamaica when there was still an anti-Jamaican sentiment regarding music and culture. In terms of the emerging dancehall, it was Mikey Dread who popularised it on radio. Although it was late night, he still managed to popularise dancehall music and bring it to the masses," was the perspective of Dennis Howard who also worked on JBC Radio, in the post-Mikey Dread era.

And Irie FM's disc jockey, GT Taylor hailed the late Mikey Dread as a role model. "Reggae music in Jamaica, owes a lot that that brother. He was one man who stood up for reggae in the early '70s, bringing the music to the forefront. He is one of my inspirations."

Veteran singer Freddie McGregor attested to the fact that "Mikey Dread was one of the persons fighting the struggle for reggae music. Mikey and I did a lot of shows together over the years. A wonderful brethren".

Visit: mikeydread.com

Barack Obama : : Change We Can Believe In | Sam Graham-Felsen's Blog: Senator Barack Obama Receives Endorsement of Flag Officers from Army, Navy and A

2008-03-14T12:22:00.001-05:00

"CHICAGO—Citing his judgment and ability to lead, admirals and generals from the United States Army, Navy and Air Force that together have served under the last nine Commanders-in-Chief today announced their endorsement of Senator Barack Obama for president.

In offering their endorsement, the generals and admirals recognized Obama’s judgment to oppose the war in Iraq before it began, his respect for the Constitution and rule of law, his leadership on behalf of America’s servicemen and women and his ability to conduct the diplomacy necessary to restore America’s standing in the world.

'Those of us who have served, worn the cloth of our nation, and gone into harm's way know that to be successful we must have the strongest sense of trust in our Commander in Chief. We must be confident that he or she has listened to the best possible advice, that he or she has garnered the best possible information from all possible sources, that he or she has analyzed and weighed all the possible consequences and outcomes, and that he or she has made the decision to exert military force as a last possible resort,” said Admiral (Ret.) Robert “William” Williamson (USN). “Of"

International Women's Day 2008: Investing in Women and Girls

2008-03-09T15:48:00.001-05:00

'At the 2005 World Summit, Governments of all nations agreed that “progress for women is progress for all”. Yet the 10-year review of the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action revealed a serious gap between policy and practice in many countries. A lack of political will is reflected in the most telling way of all: lack of resources and insufficient budgetary allocations. That is why the theme of this International Women’s Day is “Investing in Women and Girls'. Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon

The United Nations and Gender Equality

The Charter of the United Nations, signed in 1945, was the first international agreement to affirm the principle of equality between women and men. Since then, the UN has helped create a historic legacy of internationally-agreed strategies, standards, programmes and goals to advance the status of women worldwide.

Over the years, the UN and its technical agencies have promoted the participation of women as equal partners with men in achieving sustainable development, peace, security, and full respect for human rights. The empowerment of women continues to be a central feature of the UN's efforts to address social, economic and political challenges across the globe.

For information about recent themes and commemorations by the United Nations of International Women's Day, please visit: http://www.un.org/womenwatch/feature/iwd.

2008-03-09T10:40:00.003-05:00

TheStar.com - Ending the silence to save history

2008-02-13T19:34:00.004-05:00

Feb 02, 2008 04:30 AM

Stuart Laidlaw
Faith and Ethics Reporter

OWEN SOUND–Bonita Johnson-de Matteis tells this story. She's not sure of all the details, or even how much to believe, but the tale of how her family came to Ontario is an integral part of Canadian black history.

Some 150 years ago, two Johnson brothers escaped slavery in Maryland, made their way north to Detroit and were stopped by the difficulties of finding passage across the river and the border into Canada.

A Detroit businessman offered to help them if they agreed to work for him for a year. So they willingly put themselves back in bondage, in a free state, for a chance at freedom. A year came and went and the businessman went back on his word – so the two men made a run for it.

This is where the details get vague. The two brothers may have killed the man to escape, or he died pursuing them. "Either way, he ended up dead and they got away," Johnson-deMatteis says.

As black men in the 1850s, and escaped slaves at that, the two spoke little of the incident. They knew they would be blamed for the death whatever the truth. In time, the sharp details of their escape were rounded as the story was passed through the generations.

And so it is with some of the oldest and richest black history in Canada. Fearful of persecution and being sent back into slavery, early black settlers kept largely to themselves, rarely telling anyone their personal histories.

Even their children would be kept in the dark until they were old enough to be trusted with the truth.

These fears were well founded.

John Hall was a black man born free in Ontario but he, his mother and 11 siblings were abducted one night and sent into slavery in Kentucky. He escaped and made his way to Owen Sound. His story is a cautionary tale about lying low.

Through the generations, this secrecy born of self-preservation became part of the culture, reflected in an insularity in the community, a distrust of others and an aversion to doing anything that draws attention.

"Even with your closest friends growing up, you wondered how much to tell," Johnson-deMatteis remembers, sitting at the kitchen table of a friend from her school days, Terri Jackson, a white woman who grew up in the black neighbourhood of east Owen Sound.

It's now time to break the silence, the two women agree. They volunteer with the local genealogical society compiling the local black history into a book to be published this spring. They expect it to be a valuable resource for both amateur genealogists and academics.

"If our generation doesn't do this, it'll all be lost," says past chairman of the society Art Harvey, who got the project going.

The group is going through family journals, scrapbooks and photo albums, talking to older residents and others who have moved away, stitching together tales passed through the generations.

Without the pictures and clippings saved by these families, the three agree, telling their story now would be impossible.

"These people had the presence of mind to sit down and have their picture taken," Johnson-deMatteis says, looking at a family photo taken in 1924, after the funeral of her great-grandfather.

At the centre is her great-grandmother, Sarah, a white woman who married into the family and by the late 1950s was its matriarch. Disowned by her own family, Johnson-deMatteis remembers, Sarah proudly told people she was a "white black woman."

The history project reflects a growing recognition of the often overlooked black history of rural Ontario. A cairn has been erected in Owen Sound's main park to commemorate the Underground Railroad that brought slaves north, and a museum was built nearby. Each summer, the city hosts an Emancipation Picnic.

The three local historians fear, however, that too much has already been lost. Johnson-deMatteis once asked her uncle David Earll if he knew the details of the two brothers' escape, but he couldn't help. As a child, he wasn't trusted with the story, and by the time he became old enough, his priorities were elsewhere. "He said he was too busy as a young man just trying to make it in a white man's world," Johnson-de Matteis says, and details of the escape were lost with the previous generation.

That's what spurs her on in the work, she says, but confesses that the old instincts of secrecy sometimes get the better of her – and she pulls away from the project from time to time.

"I go two steps forward and one step back, but that's just me still working all this through."

In the end, she says, her own aversion to attention takes a back seat to reminding people that black history is not just an American or an urban thing. It is also a rural thing interwoven with European settlement of Ontario.

In fact, she says, a century before Toronto began to think of itself as a multicultural centre, small towns like Owen Sound, Dresden and Chatham were already dealing with issues of race and ethnic tension.

A decade after Confederation, Jackson says, nearly a third of Owen Sound was black, many of them escaped slaves. Their stories are piling up in the books and papers collecting in Jackson's home office, and in the very buildings of this Georgian Bay port.

On the main street, the grand Buchan Manor backs onto the Sydenham River. Legend has it, the first owner, industrialist and fervent abolitionist Walter Buchan, installed a tunnel from the river so escaped slaves could get to his home, where they were housed until they found a job and a place to live.

Up the street, at Coulson's British Hotel, hotelier J.P. Coulson ran one of the finer establishments in town, with 80 rooms, stables, dining rooms, a bar, a women's parlour and, it is believed, a secret staircase behind a secret door with a trick lock leading to a room where escaped slaves found shelter.

"Even if you knew where the door was, you couldn't open it," Jackson says.

Any hard evidence of the secrets of the hotel, now converted to apartments, are lost, a fate the three local historians are working hard to ensure does not befall any more of the area's rich black history.

Each photo, newspaper clipping or story handed down through the generations adds to the bigger picture, Johnson-deMatteis says.

"These are all the little things you pull together, knit together and try to make sense of your life."

Crucible Awards 2007

2008-02-10T15:29:00.000-05:00

Artist	Award	Year	Title	Country
Buju Banton	#1 Dance Hall Single	2007	Driver	Jamaica
Jimmy Reid	#1 Single	2007	Storm Cloud	Canada
Tarus Riley	#1 Single - International	2007	She’s Royal	Jamaica
Queen Ifrica	Artist of the Year - Female	2007	Fyah Muma	Jamaica
Steele	Artist of the Year - Male	2007		Canada
Tarus Riley	CD/Lp of the Year	2007	Parables	Jamaica
Jimmy Reid	CD/Lp of the Year	2007	Storm Cloud	Canada
Tony Rebel	Circle Of Distinction	2007	DJ/Producer	Jamaica
George Banton	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Gospel	Canada
Lance Ingleton	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Live Show Promotion	Canada
Bobby Ruglas	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Musician	Canada
Karl Harvey	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Musician	Canada
Dean Fraser	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Musician/Producer	Jamaica
Arnold A. Auguste	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Publisher /Editor of Share Newspaper	Canada
Michael Van Cooten	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Publisher/Editor of Pride News Magazine	Canada
Alton Ellis	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Singer	England
Freddie McGregor	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Singer	Jamaica
Owen Gray	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Singer	England
Grandmaster Rosa	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Sound System	Canada
Winston “Merritone” Blake	Circle Of Distinction	2007	Sound System	Jamaica
Eddie Fitzroy	Comeback Artist	2007		Jamaica
Max Romeo	Comeback Artist	2007	Chi Chi Bud	Jamaica
Kirk Davis	Comeback Artist	2007	One More Chance	Jamaica
Anthony Cruiz	Crucible Mention	2007		Jamaica
Carl Henry III	Crucible Mention	2007		Canada
Comfort	Crucible Mention	2007		Canada
Exco Levy	Crucible Mention	2007		Canada
Granny Inspiration	Crucible Mention	2007		Canada
Maxi Million	Crucible Mention	2007		Canada
Richie Stephens	Crucible Mention	2007		Jamaica
The Mighty Mysticcs	Crucible Mention	2007		Canada
Jassette Haughton	Crucible Mention	2007	Gospel	Canada
Patric Blair	Crucible Mention	2007	Gospel	Canada
Janet Scott	Crucible Mention	2007	Mystery Woman	Canada
AL G	Crucible Mention	2007	Roots	US Virgin Island
JD Smooth	Crucible Mention	2007	Smoothe Thoughts	USA
Dylan Murray	Crucible Mention	2007	White Wing Roots	Canada
Alicia Keys & Jr. Reid	International Artist of the Year	2007	No One	USA/Jamaica
Gregory Isaacs	Longevity	2007		Jamaica
Jakki James	Longevity	2007		Canada
Winston McAnuff	Longevity	2007		France
Bob Andy	Longevity	2007	Reggae Land	Jamaica
Lloyd/Michelle Campbell	Producer of the Year	2007		USA
Richie Stephens	Respect Due	2007		Jamaica
Tanya Mullings	Respect Due	2007	Music Is My Life	Canada
Tony Greene	Respect Due	2007	Musician/Producer	Jamaica
Prince Everald	Respect Due	2007	Producer/Artist	Canada
Dubmatix	Respect Due	2007	Production/Musician	Canada
Beres Hammond	Respect Due	2007	Singer/Producer	Jamaica
DJ Funkie	Respect Due	2007	Sound System	Canada
DJ Logie	Respect Due	2007	Sound System	Canada
DJ Sugarbird	Respect Due	2007	Sound System	Canada
Meshach Wevolusion	Rising Star	2007		St. Lucua
One Shat	Rising Star	2007		Canada
QQ	Rising Star	2007		Jamaica
Visionary	Rising Star	2007		Canada
Blessed	Rising Star	2007	Blessed	Canada
LJX	Rising Star	2007	Two Chord Skankin’	Canada

Africa Unite Symposium in Jamaica - Ziggy Marley

2008-02-09T06:22:00.000-05:00

Message to the African delegates at the Africa Unite Symposium in Jamaica

It only takes a small spark to start the biggest fire and a small axe can cut down a big tree. What we endeavour to do does not take money and it does not need to be institutionalized.

All we need to do first is talk to eachother. Yes talk. There is a saying that talk is cheap, but when these talks eventually cause action, we will have achieved a great return on our investment. We are here to talk about african unity, to discuss it, to debate it, to get it on our minds, to put the conversation of african unity back on the peoples agenda, around the fires, the bars, the schools, the football games, the dinner table, the bedroom, and eventually the continent. When was the last time you thought about it, when was the last time you heard an african leader mention it, maybe they speak about it in their bedrooms.

I believe in african unity but I know not all who are on the continent believe or are willing. Many are called few are chosen. Some countries will some won't, for whatever reason they choose. Yet those who do not wish to"

080129_Africentric_1217.pdf (application/pdf Object)

2008-02-03T17:27:00.000-05:00

080129_Africentric_1217.pdf (application/pdf Object)

TORONTO DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
IMPROVING SUCCESS FOR BLACK STUDENTS

Special Meeting 29 January 2008
RECOMMENDATION

IT IS RECOMMENDED:

1. That a Program Area Review Team (PART) be established in
February 2008 to recommend the program and operational
model for an Africentric Alternative School opening in September
2009, including grade levels, selection of site, and staffing
and support services required, and that the PART report to
the Board with its recommendations by May 2008;

2. That a three-year pilot program be established in three existing
schools beginning in September 2008, to implement a model
for integrating the histories, cultures, experiences and contributions
of people of African descent and other racialized groups
into the curriculum, teaching methodologies, and social environment
of the schools;

3. That a Staff Development, Research, and Innovation Centre be
established beginning in September 2008, in collaboration with
post-secondary institutions and community agencies, in order
to develop, use and assess the effectiveness of best practices
for improving school achievement for marginalized and vulnerable
students who are not achieving success in school; and
4. That the Director report to the Board in April 2008 on an action
plan for addressing student underachievement for marginalized
and vulnerable students, based on proposals received
from community stakeholders and on current system plans.

RATIONALE
Background
On 27 June 2007, in response to a community request for an Africentric
Alternative School, the Board decided that staff present a
report on the feasibility of an Africentric Alternative School. Staff
undertook the usual consultative process with community and staff
stakeholders under the terms of the Board’s Alternative Schools
Policy and Procedures.

Special Meeting 2
January 29, 2008 Agenda Item 5.1

The request for an Africentric Alternative School arises from
community concerns about low achievement and disengagement of
Black students in schools. Staff also received extensive input at
two system-wide community forums on 1 and 8 December 2007.
At these forums about 100 speakers – parents, community members,
youth groups, community organization representatives,
teachers, principals, and interested individuals, presented their
proposals for Black student success to a panel of trustees and senior
staff.

A summary of the key proposals are listed in Appendix A.

This report presents four recommendations and rationale.
Program Area Review Team Process for Africentric Alternative
School

This recommendation responds to the specific community request
for such a school. Staff conducted literature reviews to provide
background information on Africentric schools. As in any other
school, the success of an Africentric Alternative School depends
on the expertise of the school leadership, high quality instruction,
high expectations for students, a culture of caring, parental engagement
and support, as well as an inclusive curriculum that positively
reflects the identities, backgrounds and experiences of all
the students in the school.

An Africentric Alternative School is not a school for Black students
only. It is open to any student in the TDSB who chooses to
attend.

The TDSB defines an Africentric Alternative School as
follows:
An Africentric Alternative School is a school open to all students, which uses the sources of knowledge and experiences of peoples of African descent as an integral feature of the teaching and learning environment. A planning process for the Africentric Alternative School will begin immediately with the establishment of a PART in February 2008.

This process and timeline is recommended because of the need to ensure that the following key components of the program and operational delivery model are carefully considered with the input of the community:

• The grade levels of the school (i.e. elementary, middle or secondary
grades) and the number of classes per grade;

• A suitable and accessible school site;

• The school philosophy, pedagogy, and program focus require
community input;

• An Africentric curriculum for the appropriate grade(s) once the
grades have been determined;

• The nature of the staffing and support services required;

• The expectations for parent involvement and support; and

• Staff training on the model in order to ensure the required level
of expertise.

Following a determination of the above components, a survey of parents will have to be conducted to determine intent to enroll.
This survey will require information about the grade levels of the school, selected site, program description and other necessary details
in order for an informed parental choice to be made.

It is understood that the opening of any alternative school in the TDSB is contingent upon a commitment to enroll formally expressed
by a sufficient number of students required to operate a viable program, as recommended by the PART. Community members have emphasized during the consultation
forums that the Africentric Alternative School must be set up for success. Opening the school in September 2009, will provide greater scope for careful planning and execution of the key components so as not to place the viability and sustainability of the Africentric Alternative School at risk.

Pilot Programs in Three Schools
A key equity goal for the Board is to ensure that every school positively reflects the diversity of its community, in terms of school philosophy, instruction, student support and overall socio-cultural environment. Some racialized communities, in particular the Black community, have persistently expressed concerns that their child’s school falls far short of that goal.

Data from the recent TDSB Student Census shows that a vast majority of students say that learning about their own racial and cultural background will make school more interesting and enjoyable for them and about half of all students say that this will help them to do better in school.

Other TDSB student data shows that students from the Caribbean, East and West Africa who are predominantly Black have the highest rates of school failure. About 40% of Black students do not graduate from high school. The rigorous implementation of inclusive school practices within an inclusive school philosophy is essential to reversing this persistent pattern of school failure for Black students and other racialized groups. All schools will benefit by access to proven exemplary practices, resulting from schools which model these inclusive approaches to teaching and learning.

This report therefore recommends that a three-year pilot project in three schools (K - 6, middle, secondary) with a significant population of Black students would provide a mechanism for identifying high-impact best practices. Integrating an Africentric approach along with other approaches which centres the experience of other
groups positively within the whole school environment will be the focus of these pilots. Additional resources will be needed to support this initiative. Existing African-centred curriculum units developed with the TDSB and from external sources will be adapted and enhanced to support these pilots. Staff and community expertise will support these pilots. There is potential interest among several schools to participate in this opportunity. Centre for Staff Development, Research and Innovation Initiatives proposed in this report will require the use of action research to gather data, track progress, use and test best practices, which have an impact on all students, in particular marginalized
and vulnerable students. The support of external expert partners in this research will be an important resource for this initiative.

Phase I will begin in 2008 through a partnership with York University, Faculty of Education, through the concept of a Centre for Research, Staff Development and Innovation. Discussions have already taken place with York University regarding the research model to be used. Initiatives to improve achievement of Black students and other racialized groups will benefit from this research. Other post-secondary institutions have indicated an interest in similar partnerships to support marginalized and vulnerable students.

Action Plan for Improving Black Student Achievement
Many proposals for improving the achievement of Black students have recently been made by community members, educators and experts. Staff have not yet had an opportunity to consider the proposals received at the 1 and 8 December 2007 community forums. Other proposals and strategies arising from reports such as the School
Community Safety Advisory Panel Report and from other staff and community discussions regarding Black student achievement will be considered in developing an action plan.
This report recommends that the Director report to the Board with an action plan based on these proposals, for short and long term response, with implementation beginning in 2008-09.

COST AND FUNDING SOURCE
$350,000.00 Development Process for Africentric Alternative School - $450,000.00 Pilot Programs in Three Schools ($150,000 per school) - $15,000.00 Centre for Staff Development, Research and Innovation - $5,000.00 Development of Action Plan $820,000.00 Total

IMPLEMENTATION AND REVIEW
• PART process to begin as soon as possible;
• Lead principal to be hired for September 2008;
• Consultation with Superintendents of Education to identify interested pilot schools, and their readiness to participate;
• Development of Action Research model in consultation with York University;
• Formation of a Committee to begin review of community and staff proposals and to set priorities;
• Executive Planning and Priorities Committee will monitor, review, and report progress to the Board.

APPENDICES Appendix A:
Black Community Education Forums (1 and 8 December 2007):

Summary of Key Proposals FROM Christopher Usih, System Superintendent, Learning to 18, Programs
& Partnerships

KEY COMMUNITY PROPOSALS INCLUSIVE CURRICULUM
• Teach all students about how race, class and gender impact their lives, and provide
curriculum resources and teacher training to support this teaching;
• Ensure that history of Canada taught in TDSB schools is inclusive of the
histories of people of African descent and all other groups which make up this country
including the perspectives of all groups impacted by events in Canadian history;
• Implement a mandatory curriculum unit on the history and experiences of people of
African descent as well as Aboriginal peoples in the curriculum for all students at
middle and secondary schools;
• Establish a diversity education program in each school using community resources
so that all students can learn about each other and develop intercultural understanding;
• Invest substantially in literature, film, documents, and aids that depict legitimately the
experiences of people with whom the diverse community of students can identify;
• Use African-centred references and content in visual and performing arts and sports
at all levels of instruction including the teaching of rap, gospel, and jazz;
• Teach historic facts about wealth creation, entrepreneurship, science and academia
of people of African descent in order to change current societal emphasis on Black
role models in sports and entertainment;
• Provide opportunities for all students to learn world history early enough so that they
understand why people from different geographical regions have different experiences,
characteristics and values;
• Integrate the teaching of African history, cultures and achievements through the
school year, not just in African History Month;
• Establish a position of Central Principal for Black Studies similar to the existing position
of Central Principal for Aboriginal Studies.

PROGRAM INITIATIVES
• Require each school to identify equity targets for the School Improvement Plan;
• Restructure Grade 9 courses to run in split classes, applied and academic together;
teachers will deliver the academic curriculum and allow for a differentiated assessment;
• Make co-op opportunities more accessible to youth of schools in marginalized communities;
• Provide more job shadowing programs for youth in high need communities;
• Develop Eco Schools Program in inner city communities;
• Build partnership projects between schools in disadvantaged communities and cultural
institutions such as the ROM, the Toronto Art Gallery and the Ontario Science
Centre to bring greater learning involvement of the youth with these institutions;
• Undertake an aggressive program to teach inner city youth how to use new technologies
to support learning;
• Use technology and Africentric software to aid in teaching a more culturally relevant
curriculum;
• Provide permanent funding to support the stability, quality and expansion of the existing
Black Heritage International Language Program;
• Extend learning opportunities to include summer programs for children and youth;
• Organize specialty summer camps for marginalized students to include nontraditional
summer activities such as archery, horseback riding, wilderness survival
and other activities that will expose students to a wider range of experiences;
• Provide employment opportunities for students in disadvantaged communities to
work for the TDSB in the summer.

STUDENT SUPPORT
• Transform the role of guidance counsellors to provide a focus on guidance to students
struggling with challenges who need culturally sensitive support to make more
informed choices in their academic and social lives;
• Restore and expand the community support workers, youth outreach workers, attendance
counsellors, and social work positions which have been cut by the Harris
government;
• Establish a Black male mentorship program in high need areas;
• Establish a TDSB job category of Youth Mentors;
• Provide in-school one-on-one tutoring for students struggling with their academic
challenges;
• Schedule intervention style group meetings with the student at-risk with more than
one teacher, parent/guardian;
• Replicate the “Promoting Excellence Program” which has a 98% success rate in the
Jane/Finch area;
• Utilize ‘Future Aces Program’ which provides student leadership opportunities;
• Offer Pathways to Education (Regent Park model) in all inner city communities of TDSB.

VALUES
• Create a board-wide initiative where every school would be required to adopt a
charitable project around which they would use character-building values;
Special Meeting 10
• Implement an integrated approach to character development across all programs in
the school;
• Teach children good manners; teach them the importance of a smile (the promoters
of rap music have taught children to wear a sullen and hostile look);
• Encourage children not to copy the tough gangster look that America has sold to
Black youth.

SCHOOL CLIMATE
• Ensure that each school set a goal of building a trusting relationship between all staff
and students and work hard to create an environment in which all students feel safe;
• Ensure that teachers get to know each student personally; know their names, know
their goals, know the issues and stresses that they are experiencing in their personal
lives and actively support them in dealing with their challenges;
• Build the school program in disadvantaged communities around improving students’
self esteem by focusing on what they do well, by expanding their view of what is
achievable, and by instilling the confidence to strive for something positive;
• Provide support for those students whose learning styles that may be considered
different, while making learning challenging and fun by developing their creativity
and thinking skills;
• Create opportunities for groups of students in middle and secondary schools to
come together to discuss issues; organize student workshops and discussion groups
on topics and issues they are dealing with in their lives;
• Create many opportunities for Black students and other racialized groups to participate
in leadership responsibilities in the school.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE
• Get students to commit to taking responsibility for their part in building respect for
each other and for adults in the school;
• Establish a better balance between punishment and conflict resolution, peer mediation,
prevention, human rights protection, and equity;
• Use in-school suspensions where suspensions are warranted, and ensure that supports
are provided for suspended students;
• Link students who are having behaviour challenges with a mentor/advisor prior to
suspensions;
• Promote the use of school uniforms for all schools.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Train all elementary and middle school teachers in the use of African-based content
in delivering literacy and numeracy programs;
• Provide intensive training for principals, teachers, guidance counsellors and support
staff in equity issues including anti-racism and gender equity awareness and strategies,
stereotyping, racial profiling, cross cultural differences, and understanding the
immigrant and refugee experience;
• Provide pre-service education for all teachers in the college programs to learn about
the realities of dealing with Black students and other racialized student groups;
• Develop an Africentric Leadership Institute for principals, teachers, and students so
they understand the needs of the community, similar to the model in Nova Scotia;

PERSONNEL ISSUES
• Recruit teachers who have a passion to teach children and who can communicate
high expectations for all students and who can build trust with students;
• Recruit teachers who understand how to use mainstream hip-hop culture as a context
for motivating and teaching Black students;
• Include demonstrated evidence of inclusive instruction as part of a teacher performance
appraisal programs;
• Principal transfer approvals should consider the candidate’s record in equitable
school practices and community engagement;
• Principals with experience in working progressively with Black students and parents
should be placed in schools with predominantly Black populations;
• Establish a teacher compensation policy which includes factors related to teacher
effectiveness and student achievement data.

ADVOCACY AND ADVISORY STRUCTURES
• Establish a Black community committee of advisers to work with the TDSB on how
to move forward on Black students achievement issues;
• Develop a council in African Canadian Educators to work specifically with the Ministry
of Education to ensure the needs of Black students are being met;
• Establish a committee of Black educators, parents, students, members of the community
and the clergy to work with the Board to organize, implement, and administer
the Black focused schools;
• Organize a support group of community and professional organizations to act as
youth advocates for students;
• Organize an annual Black Community Education Summit funded by the TDSB.

PARENT AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• Create strong home-school connections with Black parents, providing opportunities
for families to come together to support student learning;
• Ensure that principals and school council leaders have strategies for identifying and
eliminating any barriers to the involvement of Black parents and other racialized
groups in the school and in the school council;
• Organize events at school that are of interest to parents who are not actively involved
in the life of the school;
• Have a Parent Night once per month for the parents to just talk with each other
about schools and their children;
• Establish a formal network between schools, community centres and businesses,
and other interested groups in the local community to address youth issues and to
support youth;
• Open the schools to more free or low cost community use for programs aimed at
children and youth;
• Schools and community agencies should create parent support groups with expert
resource people to help parents with coping strategies and proactive strategies;
• Adjust school meeting schedules to accommodate the convenience of parents;
• Organize a Take Your Parent/Caregiver To School Day for students in K-10;
• Make sure the main school office projects an inclusive and African-friendly environment.

BLACK FOCUSED SCHOOLS
• The Board should establish a Black focused school because it will lead to improved
school achievement for students who attend, and it will provide a model for other
schools to follow;
• The Board should not establish a Black focused school because it is divisive and it
will create a focus away from improving school achievement of Black students in all
schools.

OTHER
• Ensure that the TDSB website or other communication vehicles gives the community
good information about what’s going on and how the Board is addressing Black students’
issues.
• The TDSB should work closely with the Ministry of Social Services, Ministry of Child
and Youth Services, and the Ministry of Housing to address social issues of Black
students which impact Black students in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

Promoting CRITICAL LITERACY

2008-01-19T11:02:00.000-05:00

Barbara Comber defines critical literacy
as the opportunity to use language in
powerful ways to get things done in the
world. http://www.curriculum.org/secretariat/files/Nov29CriticalLiteracy.pdf

Questions to Promote CRITICAL LITERACY

Who is the author/producer?
What do you think are the author’s values, attitudes and beliefs?
How do you think the author sees the world?
Who or what may have influenced the author’s world view? Explain.
What is it that they believe in that is different from what we believe in?
What do you interpret to be the author’s intent? Explain.
Who is the target audience? How do you know?
How might different people interpret the message of the text?
When and where was the text crafted? How do you know?
What was going on in the world at the time the text was crafted?
How has the author worded ideas in the text?
How does the wording influence the meaning?
Where is the “agent of action” placed in the sentence (spoken or written)?
For example:
Police Catch Criminal! (places focus on “police” and softens focus on “criminal”)
Criminal Caught By Police! (places focus on “criminal” and softens focus on “police”)
Criminal Caught! (places sole focus on “criminal”)
How do the features of text influence the message?
How does the medium influence the message of the text?
Who published the text?
Who is making money from the text (what are the commercial implications)?

More Questions to Promote CRITICAL LITERACY

♦ Who is the author/producer of this text?
♦ Knowing what we know about who created this text, how do we expect him
or her to treat the subject matter?
♦ Why are we reading or viewing this text?
♦ What do we already know about the text based on what we can see?
♦ What do the images suggest? What do the words suggest?
♦ What kind of language is used in this text? What is its influence on the
message?
♦ What do you interpret to be the author’s intent? Explain.
♦ With whom do you think the author wants us to identify or sympathize?
♦ Who is the target audience? How do you know?
♦ How might different people interpret the message of the text?
♦ How are children, adolescents, or young adults represented in this text? How
are boys or girls represented?
♦ What has been left out of this text that you would like to have seen included?
♦ Is the text fair? Does it treat the subject matter/sides/parties fairly?
♦ Who benefits from this text? Who does not?
♦ What does the reader/viewer need to know ahead of time in order to really
understand this text?
♦ What is real in the text? What is not real? How is reality constructed?
♦ How might the creator of this text view the world? Why do you think that?

Nov29Questions.pdf (application/pdf Object)

TheStar.com | GTA | Key recommendations for safer schools

2008-01-11T05:07:00.000-05:00

TheStar.com | GTA | Key recommendations for safer schools:

Why schools aren't safe
Jordan Manners died of 'pure neglect' – a result of the cutbacks to the kinds of supports at-risk students need, says the head of a panel that has delivered a stinging indictment of safety in the city's high schools.
Jan 11, 2008 04:30 AM
Daniel Girard
Education Reporter

The Falconer report makes 126 recommendations to the Toronto District School Board, Queen's Park, City Hall and various other public agencies. Here are some key ones:

SECURITY

Uniforms: All students should wear uniforms unless a school council opts out. Identification: Students should be required to wear identification cards around their necks.

Canine unit: Board canine units should be used as part of immediate stepped-up security that includes regular searches of lockers for weapons. Police:"

Oscar Peterson: A Jazz Giant

2008-01-09T07:48:00.000-05:00

Oscar Peterson: A Jazz Giant


Growing up in Montreal's Saint-Henri


'Coloured boy with amazing fingers'


Oscar's swinging style

Nurturing young Oscar Peterson's phenomenal talent. (TV; runs 7:47)

Eighteen-year-old Oscar Peterson delivers a crowd-pleasing performance. (Radio; runs 3:51)

Young Oscar Peterson talks about his unique "walking boogie" technique. (Radio; runs 8:55)


Oscar's big break


Battling all shades of racism


Oscar: The practical joker

Montreal's own wows jazz impresario Norman Granz. (TV; runs 1:49)

Oscar Peterson defends white jazz musicians. (Radio; runs 2:40)

Remembering some unforgettable pranks on the road. (Radio; runs 8:42)


'Maharajah of the keyboard'


Marriage of two great Canadian pianists


Gzowski in conversation with Peterson

A relaxed Oscar Peterson muses about his fame, Canada and Frank Sinatra. (TV; runs 15:05)

Oscar Peterson receives the Glenn Gould Prize. (Radio; runs 14:42)

CBC's Peter Gzowski drops in for a visit with Oscar Peterson. (Radio; runs 26:46)

LINKS

Topic from Les Archives de Radio-Canada on the same subject

Oscar Peterson, le roi du jazz

Click to Order your Crucible Calendar $10.00

2007-12-30T16:24:00.000-05:00

2007-12-16T08:15:00.000-05:00

Reggae star Taylor dies at 50 - Jamaica Gleaner.
published: Monday | December 3, 2007

TYRONE TAYLOR, the reggae singer whose 1983 song Cottage in Negril is considered a classic, died on Saturday.

Norman 'Bull Puss' Bryan, a close friend of Taylor's, said Taylor died from prostate cancer in Kingston.

The St. Elizabeth-born Taylor, who was 50 years old, had fallen on hard times. He suffered two strokes in recent years and spoke openly of a substance abuse problem that derailed a promising career.

Taylor's recording career began during the 1970s when he recorded several songs for top-flight producers like Winston 'Niney' Holness. But it was not until the early 1980s that he hit paydirt with Cottage in Negril.

The song, driven by Taylor's soulful delivery and an infectious saxophone solo, was a homage to the West End resort town which became a hang-out for American hippies and college students in the 1970s.

Signature song

Cottage in Negril became his signature song, popping up on reggae compilations from European record companies. It made Taylor a minor star on that continent.

Taylor would record other popular songs, such as a cover of American soul singer Bobby Blue Bland's Members Only and 1994's Rainy Sunset, but he never recaptured the success of Cottage in Negril which was recently covered by singer Duane Stephenson.

Taylor made several futile attempts at a comeback, including an appearance at Rebel Salute in his home parish.

Tyrone Taylor has passed away ... Reggae Vibes.com

Tyrone Taylor, the reggae singer whose 1983 song 'Cottage In Negril' is considered a classic, died on Saturday, December 1st 2007. Producer Norman 'Bull Puss' Bryan, a close friend of Taylor's, said the singer died from prostate cancer in Kingston, Jamaica. The St. Elizabeth-born Taylor, who was 50 years old, had fallen on hard times. He suffered two strokes in recent years and spoke openly of a substance abuse problem that derailed a promising career.

TYRONE TAYLOR... SINGER WITH A GOLDEN SWEET VOICE.

Tyrone Taylor was born in Negril, Jamaica, in 1957. He first ventured in the studio at the tender age of 12 when he recorded 'Delilah' for producer Joe Gibbs. The song surfaced in the UK on the flipside of Dennis Walks' hit 'Having A Party', but being disappointed with the final result of his first recording Taylor drifted among some of Jamaica's top session men, learning to play a number of instruments. One of his most influential benefactors was Willie Lindo who encouraged him to persevere with a career in the music business.

Taylor went on to record with a number of Jamaica's leading producers, notably with Winston 'Niney The Observer' Holness and Jack Ruby, and was signed to Bob Marley's Tuff Gong enterprise. The singer with the golden sweet voice always seemed to do his best"

Grammy® Nomination for Burning Spear

2007-12-08T12:06:00.000-05:00

Reggae music icon and international recording artist Winston ‘Burning Spear’ Rodney receives

Best Reggae Album

GRAMMY® nomination

for

BURNING SPEAR EXPERIENCE

New York, NY (December 6, 2007) – Burning Music Productions is proud to announce that Reggae music icon and Grammy-winning recording artist Winston ‘Burning Spear’ Rodney (O.D.) has been nominated for a Best Reggae Album Grammy for his 2007 double CD release, Burning Spear Experience. Spear is a previous Grammy winner for his 1999 Calling Rastafari CD and has received 10 nominations for his releases over his career to date. The 50^th Annual Grammy Awards presentation will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on Sunday, February 10, 2008 to be broadcast on CBS Television nationwide.

Burning Spear Experience is a two disc, 25 track compilation from Rodney’s own Burning Music Productions featuring rare unreleased tracks, alternative versions and live concert recordings spanning Spear’s career. All tracks on the compilation were chosen by Burning Spear himself. Included is a limited edition bonus DVD and is available exclusively at the Burning Spear Store on his official website, Borders Stores, and all leading music outlets. Burning Spear’s catalog of releases are available on is own Burning Music Productions and Think Indie distribution company.

Burning Spear is scheduled to release his all-new studio album Jah Is Real in early 2008 through his Burning Music Productions.

Keep The Spear Burning !

For more information on the latest Burning Spear news, Burning Sound radio (on Live365.com), joining the Burning Spear Street Team and more -

Visit www.BurningSpear.net

Jay Douglas @ Mod Club

2007-12-08T11:43:00.001-05:00

21st. CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS NOMINATIONS

2007-12-02T15:46:00.000-05:00

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ,TO ALL REGGAE RADIO DJ’S AND PROGRAMERS, NEWSPAPER WRITERS, PRODUCERS, PROMOTERS, ETC.

REGGAE INDUSTRY PARTICIPATION DEC.2, 2007

SUGGESTION FOR NOMINATIONS

RE-21^st. CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS NOMINATIONS

Plans for the Twenty (21^st.) Annual Canadian Reggae Music Awards presentation are now underway. This Gala Event will be held on Sunday March 30^th, 2008. At 7pm. at the beautiful JAMAICAN CANADIAN CENTRE 995 ARROW RD. (MAIN BALLROOM) in Toronto, Ontario. Please fill in your suggestions for nomination in the following categories and mail it to the CRMA. 7205 Goreway Drive P.O. Box #59176 Mississauga, Ontario, L4T-4J1 or E-mail to winprods@aol.com before January 15^th, 2008.

CANADIAN REGGAE ARTISTS AWARDS

CANADIAN REGGAE ORIENTED GOSPEL AWARDS

Top Reggae Newcomer (female)

Top Reggae Gospel Singer (female)

Top Reggae Newcomer (male)

Top Reggae Gospel Singer (male)

Top Reggae Band

Top Reggae Gospel CD. / Album

Top Dancehall Style D.J. (female)

Top Dancehall Style D.J. (male)

CANADIAN SOCA / CALYPSO AWARDS

Top Reggae Singer (female)

Top Soca / Calypso CD. / Album

Top Reggae Singer (male)

Top Reggae Producer

TOP INTERNATIONAL REGGAE AWARDS

Top Reggae CD. / Album

Top Reggae Single

SPECIAL AWARDS

Canadian Awards of Merit

The PETER TOSH Memorial Award

International Awards of Merit

The BOB MARLEY Memorial Award

Canadian Radio D.J. Award

(For playing the most Canadian Reggae Artists)

Notes:

NOTE: A LIST OF NOMINATIONS WILL BE RELEASED ON JANUARY 30^TH. 2008 AT 9:00 PM. AT A SPECIAL NOMINATION RELEASE PARTY. THE VENUE WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT A LATER DATE.

Regards

Winston Hewitt, Producer / Coordinator. C.R.M.A. P.O.BOX.59176 Mississauga, Ontario, L4T-4J1

For more information, please call 905-270-8675. E-mail winprods@aol.com

Burning Spear receives Order of Distinction

2007-12-02T06:33:00.000-05:00

(left to right): Bootsy Collins, Burning Spear, and Bernie Worrell in studio

Reggae music icon Burning Spear receives Order of Distinction (O.D.) award in Jamaica /
Readies new studio album for early 2008 release

New York (October 31, 2007) – Reggae music icon and Grammy-winning recording artist Winston ‘Burning Spear’ Rodney was bestowed the Order of Distinction (O.D.) upon him by the Jamaican Government earlier this month on Heroes Day, in recognition of his service through music to the Jamaican society. “This award was a long time coming and was forst initiated by journalist Devon Evans from St Ann, my home parries, and I am glad to receive the honor,” says Spear. Rodney has led the way musically, in keeping with another Jamaican hero, Marcus Garvey‘s spirit and message alive, and in advocating through his songs. Through the teachings of Garvey, combined with his own life experiences, Burning Spear has endeavored to educate, inform, and uplift people around the world with his message of self-determination and self-reliance for all African descendants.

Spear has also been busy in the studio the past few months recording tracks for his all-new studio album targeted for early 2008 release. Joining him in the studio performing on several of the album tracks were Parliament-Funkadelic legends bassist Bootsy Collins and keyboard maestro Bernie Worrell. Spear comments, “I think I needed something different for the new album and the vibe working with them was very strong like we had worked together for many years.”

A new 2 disc, 25 track compilation titled the Burning Spear Experience from Burning Music Productions was released recently with rare unreleased tracks, alternative versions and live concert recordings spanning Spear’s career. All tracks on the compilation were chosen by Burning Spear himself. Included is a limited edition bonus DVD and is available exclusively at the Burning Spear Store on his official website, Borders Stores, and all leading music outlets. Burning Spear’s catalog of releases is available on is own Burning Music Productions and Think Indie distribution companies.

Tune in to the brand new Burning Sound radio station at LIVE365.com. Watch for upcoming live shows, unreleased tracks, new dubs, rare tracks, re-mixes, interviews and more from the legendary Burning Spear. All brought to you by the man himself, Winston Rodney. Keep The Spear Burning !

For more information on the latest news, Burning Sound radio, joining the Burning Spear Street Team and more - Visit www.BurningSpear.net

Black Community Education Forum

2007-11-25T13:10:00.000-05:00

SMOOTH JAZZY GROOVES

2007-10-29T20:33:00.000-05:00

Listen to SMOOTH JAZZY GROOVES on Wednesdays from 10pm-12 am with Glen Morgan on CHRY 105.5 FM or at: http://www.chry.fm

Contact Glen Morgan:
Master of Ceremonies for Stage Shows,
Wedding Receptions, Formal Dinner Soirees, Award Presentations and Special Occasions !

D.J. Service Provider of Entertainment for Restaurants, Bars, Lounges, Family Celebrations, Spoken Word (Poetry) Galas,
Beauty Pageants and ALL CORPORATE EVENTS !

Specializing in Smooth Jazz Music of North American,
Caribbean and Latin Genres !

Email : SmoothJazzyG@hotmail.com

I am readily available to provide musical entertainment (D.J. or M.C. services) at your CORPORATE EVENTS, DINING SOIREES AND BIRTHDAY OR WEDDING CELEBRATIONS !

If you wish, as a free promotional offer, I will provide you with a COURTESY COMPLIMENTARY HOUR OF MUSIC on-site at your establishment, just for you to feel the "Smooth Jazzy Grooves" and get a trial taste of the services I offer throughout the Greater Toronto Area and Surrounding Regions ! Entertainment that fulfills your every desire ! Keeping the listening audiences yearning for more Smooth Jazz every time ! "

Call today !

416-843-1863

Musically yours,

Glen 'Jazz Groove' Morgan

SMOOTH JAZZY GROOVES
RADIO SHOW
on Toronto's CHRY 105.5 fm

Live-to-air every Wednesday night
from 10pm to 12 midnight !

Log on to www.chry.fm
and click on "Listen Live" !

www.myspace.com/smoothjazzygrooves !

E-MAIL:

SmoothJazzyG@hotmail.com !

South Africa bids farewell to murdered reggae star Lucky Dube | Entertainment | Reuters

2007-10-28T14:07:00.000-05:00

South Africa bids farewell to murdered reggae star Lucky Dube
Sun Oct 28, 2007 11:50am

NGOGO VILLAGE, South Africa (Reuters) - Thousands of fans bade an emotional farewell on Sunday to South Africa's top reggae star Lucky Dube, whose murder in an apparent botched carjacking stunned even a nation hardened to violent crime.

Rastafarians and members of the African Shembe Christian church to which Dube belonged were prominent in the crowds who thronged to his rural home for his funeral.

Local musicians and fans from across Africa sang hymns and paid tribute to South Africa's biggest-selling reggae singer and one of the country's most successful artistes.

His wife Zanele and children broke down in tears as one of Dube's best-known songs played over the loudspeaker at the public ceremony on his farm near the remote village of Ingogo, about 250 km (160 miles) southeast of Johannesburg.

The internationally acclaimed singer, who recorded 22 albums in English, Zulu and Afrikaans and won more than 20 awards in a 25-year entertainment career, was then buried in his garden in a private family ceremony.

The 43-year-old was shot dead in front of his children in a Johannesburg suburb on October 18. Five men have been arrested.

The high-profile killing prompted new calls for a crackdown on violent crime in South Africa, which has one of the highest crime rates in the world.

Police figures show there were nearly 20,000 murders in the year to the end of March, 2.4 percent up on the year before. The number of rapes, carjackings and assaults also remained high.

THE ANNUAL CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS

2007-10-28T14:02:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 17, 2007

RE-THE ANNUAL CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS

Plans for the Twenty First (21^st) Annual Canadian Reggae Music Awards Presentation are now underway. This gala presentation will be taking place on Sunday, March 30th 2008 at 7 pm at the beautiful JAMAICAN CANADIAN CENTRE (Main Ballroom) which is located at 995 ARROW ROAD in TORONTO, ONTARIO. Apart from the AWARDS presentations, the show will feature some of Canada’s Top reggae stars and some international reggae superstars. Two weeks prior to the AWARDS presentation, there will also be a Showcase of some nominees and guests on Saturday, March 15^th 2008 starting at 9pm at the same venue.

Special AWARDS will include the Bob Marley and Peter Tosh Memorial AWARDS. Also special AWARDS of Merit will be presented to some of the outstanding individuals who have contributed to Reggae Music in Canada and Internationally. This year’s presentation will also include a Canadian Soca/Calypso and a Reggae Oriented Gospel Category.

For the past 20 years the AWARDS Presentation has been a tremendous success, each show has been sold out and we expect this year to be the same. Sponsored in part over the years by Heineken, Air Canada, Air Jamaica, Guinness, Ralph’s bakery, Pilly’s Bakery, Labatt’s Brewery, Bright’s Wine, Sun-light Bakery, Golden Beauty Supplies, Hair Plus, Jamaica National Building Society, Western Union, Tipper’s Fast Food, Molson Brewery, Radio Stations IRIE FM, RJR, CHRY, CIUT, CJIQ, CKLN, FLOW, CKUT, Galaxie, The Gleaner, Share Newspaper, India/Africa Grocers, Nicey’s Food Mart, City TV, Much Music, and Rogers Cable TV. just to name a few. Other sponsors include a host of other Caribbean oriented businesses from across Canada and the U.S.A.

NOTE: If you have released a reggae and /or soca /calypso recording including gospel

in 2007 (in Canada), please send two copies along with a biography before December 31, 2007 to the CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS

7205 Goreway Dr. P.O. Box 59176, Mississauga, Ontario, L4T-4J1.

A list of nominations will be released on JANUARY 28th, 2008, covering from

January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007, inclusive. Please check the CRMA website for

more information. (Time and place will be announced in advance.)

For more information write to the CRMA at the above address or call (905) 270-8675.

Note : To advertise in this year’s program/posters/flyers/etc, call (905) 270-8675 or E-mail. winprods@aol.com.

Thank you for your continued support of the Annual Canadian Reggae Music Awards.

Yours truly

Winston Hewitt producer / co-ordinator.

One Love.

Memorial Service for Milton Blake

2007-10-27T17:56:00.001-05:00

Celebrating Milton Blake

2007-10-24T21:07:00.000-05:00

Photo by Eddie Grant

The Crucible celebrates Milton Blake who hosted The "Musical Triangle," on CKLN, for 17 years. Milton died on Thursday after a four-year battle with cancer. He was 63.

Information regarding various activities to commemorate his life and his contributions to our societies are as follows:

Viewing

Thursday 25 October, 2007 - 1-3 pm & 6-9 pm

Simple Alternative

1535 Southgate Rd.

Dixie, south of Eglinton

Nine Night

Friday 26 October, 2007 – starting at 7:00 pm

Jamaica Canadian Association Centre

995 Arrow Rd.

Service

Saturday 27 October, 2007 – 1:00 pm

West End Church of God of Prophecy

1344 Martingrove Rd.

Requesting Radio Personnel from CKLN, CIUT & CHRY to form an HONOUR GUARD for Milton’s entry to the church. Please be at the church by 12:30 pm.

Milton will be buried in Jamaica at a later date.

Milton Blake - In His Own Words

2007-10-24T20:23:00.002-05:00

2007-10-24T20:18:00.000-05:00

MILTON BLAKE

Radio host, activist inspired community

Voice of CKLN's `Musical Triangle' used show to discuss issues of black diaspora

Oct 23, 2007 04:30 AM

Paola Loriggio
Staff Reporter

For Milton Blake, music and activism were irrevocably intertwined.

It was on the airwaves, both in his native Jamaica and in Toronto, that the 63-year-old fought for the rights and the cultural identity of the black community, coupling the works of artists like Aretha Franklin and Bob Marley with his own brand of social commentary.

As the host of "Musical Triangle," a music and talk show on CKLN, Blake informed and inspired listeners for 17 years before illness forced him to step down. Blake died Thursday after a four-year battle with colon cancer.

He spent his last three months at Peel Memorial Hospital in Brampton, surrounded by friends, relatives and many listeners intent on supporting the man they admired.

"Everyone knows the voice of Milton Blake," said Dudley Laws, Blake's long-time friend and co-founder of the Black Action Defence Committee, an activist group of which Blake was a founding member. The group was created in 1988 in response to several shootings of black men by Toronto-area police and led several protests to push for more progressive laws.

"His radio program was inspirational to a lot of people in the community," because it dealt with the issues and problems of the black diaspora, Laws said. "His commentary was very militant but you could see that he thought through every word that he uttered."

As co-founder of the Black Music Association's Toronto chapter, Blake helped promote the works of Canadian black artists and successfully lobbied for the inclusion of a black music category in the Juno music awards.

"He kept himself very busy," said Pauline Crooks, Blake's partner of 10 years. "I don't know how he did it."

She described Blake as a caring, dependable man with a passion for his work and a strong perfectionist streak. He loved to read about history and current events, she said.

The couple would often take long walks together near their home in Brampton. Blake also doted on his four children, as well as Crooks' two daughters, Crooks said.

Blake remained optimistic until the end, telling Crooks they would travel to his hometown of Fort George, in St. Ann, Jamaica. "Milton always believed in miracles," she said.

A viewing will be held at the Simple Alternative Centre in Mississauga on Thursday, from 1 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. The funeral will take place at the West-End Church of God of Prophecy in Etobicoke, Saturday at 1 p.m. Blake will be interred in St. Ann, Jamaica.

Gunmen kill reggae star Lucky Dube | Entertainment | Reuters

2007-10-20T18:04:00.000-05:00

Gunmen kill reggae star Lucky Dube

Fri Oct 19, 2007 11:14am EDT

By Marius Bosch

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - Gunmen shot reggae star Lucky Dube in front of his children in one of South Africa's highest-profile murders, uniting political rivals in calls for a crackdown on violent crime.

Dube, 43, was killed in an apparent botched carjacking on Thursday evening in a Johannesburg suburb. Police are searching for three suspects, police spokesman Eugene Opperman said.

"They allegedly tried to take his vehicle, but then shots were fired and he was fatally wounded," Opperman said.

Police said he was dropping his son off when the attack took place. Another of his children was in the car.

The murder of South Africa's biggest-selling reggae singer cast a shadow over the national mood a day before the country's rugby union team face England in the final of the World Cup.

President Thabo Mbeki said his countrymen should work together to cut crime in South Africa, which has one of the world's highest murder rates.

"Even as we prepare to celebrate the victory of the Springboks we must also grieve the death of an outstanding South African and, indeed, make a commitment that we shall continue to act together as a people to confront this terrible scourge of crime, which has taken the lives of too many of our people -- and does so every day," he said.

CRIME "OUT OF CONTROL"

The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) said the murder showed crime was out of control in South Africa.

"The circumstances surrounding his murder again illustrate that violent crime in South Africa is out of control, and that the government's remedies to address this scourge have failed," DA parliamentary leader Sandra Botha said.

The murder rate jumped 2.4 percent between April 1, 2006, and March 31, 2007, with 19,202 murders recorded. The number of rapes, carjackings and assaults also remained alarmingly high.

Dube recorded more than 20 albums and had shared a stage with Sinead O'Connor, Peter Gabriel and Sting.

The singer won over 20 awards locally and internationally. His first album, released in 1984 with the title "Rastas Never Die", was banned by South Africa's apartheid government.

Dube's record company said the murder was senseless.

"Lucky wasn't just big in South Africa, he was big in Africa and the rest of the world where he had a huge fan base. He was a fantastic ambassador for South African music," said Ivor Haarburger, chief executive officer of Gallo Music.

The police chief of South Africa's Gauteng province, which includes Johannesburg, has hand-picked a squad of seven detectives to track down the killers.

"He's got a lot of confidence in this team, who will do everything possible to identify and arrest those responsible for this," Opperman said.

(Additional reporting by Bate Felix)

'da Kink in my hair t.v show comes to Global Television on Oct 14 at 7:30pm

2007-10-10T05:28:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak preview to whet yu appetite!!!

Thanks Clova!

Big up to all 'da Kink in my hair fans/Dinner mint fans, Secrets of a black boy!!
I just wanted to send a big thank you/ a personal love letter full of love to everyone who has supported my shows, my career and given me your love and support throughout the years. Next year will be my tenth year anniversary of being in the business. Some of you guys have been with me when I use to put on shows in the local community centre, libraries, the local gym... You then followed me to Yuk Yuks, Second City, Harbourfront Centre, The Toronto Fringe 'Festival, Theatre Passe Muraille, and our biggest success, The Princess of Wales Theatre, where we made Toronto Theatrical "HERSTORY!!" And now again you are helping to make another dream come true.... 'da Kink in my hair t.v show comes to Global Television on Oct 14 at 7:30pm!!! Again i am calling on the true support of the community. The support of my friends, fans, and love ones to keep this show on the air and make it a hit!!! Please tell your friends, family, lovers, your girlz, your boyz to watch this show!!. Spread the word, forward the email. If you just send this email to five people and encourage them to watch 'da Kink in my hair, Oct 14th, at 7:30pm you have done enough!!! We have to make this happen! We want 'da Kink in my hair to do for Canadian Television what the Cosby Show did for American Television!!!
So lets come together and do it again, we are going to make this show a hit!!! On Oct 14th at 7:30pm turn on every television set in your house, ladies throw a Kink in my hair party at your house, invite your girlz,(drink a beer!!) men kick up your foot, drink a beer and watch 'da kink!!! Tell everybody to watch 'da Kink!! People just spread the word!! Forward this email right now!!!
Believe me, I know I couldn't have gotten this far without you and I need your support again! We can do it! Thanks again for all your love and support throughout the years, thank you for buying your tickets, sending an email, telling a friend, thanks for just believing in a likkle black girl with a dream... Love yu bad for dat!!!
Yes Big Tings a happen on Oct 14th!!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=sItgpLOgySo (selected scenes)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Qj6nsMDU14g (keisha chante guess star)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=6wH8sGh7lJA (Richard interview)

Bob Ruglass Performs in Mississauga

2007-09-08T15:39:00.000-05:00

Bob Ruglass Performs at
The Smooth Jazz Affair
September 15, 2007
Candles Banquet Hall,
1224 Dundas St East, Mississauga, Ontario

Dinner 7.00pm/Show 8.00 pm/Dance 10.pm till...... Doors open at 6.00 pm.

Bob E. Ruglass was born in May Pen, Clarendon,Jamaica. His love for music started at the age of 11,while attending Clarendon College,located in Chapelton, where he studied the basic theory and rudiments of music.Bob completed his high school education in a junior engineering programme at Vere Technical High School. Whlie attending (V.T.H.S.), he formed an intimate relationship with the auditorium piano, teaching himself how to form chords and melodies.This unique style of playing he developed from such inherent and natural way of learning has made him one of the most talented musician ever to emerge from Jamaica. He has played in almost every hot venue on the island,including the famed VIP, Sombrero, Brown Jug clubs just to name a few.

Visit Bob Ruglass at Myspace.com

Memorial Tribute

2007-09-08T06:47:00.000-05:00

Memorial Tribute
"Create and view everlasting online remembrance memorials and tributes..."

Memorialja.com provides you the opportunity to create an online memorial to celebrate the life of someone who has made a difference to your life and perhaps many others throughout the world. You can create a memorial by composing a unique tribute for family members, or a person who has influenced you.

JAMAICA Election 2007

2007-09-03T20:26:00.000-05:00

Observer-commissioned opinion poll

2007-09-02T11:40:00.000-05:00

9% JLP lead

The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) is enjoying a huge nine percentage point lead in support over the People's National Party (PNP) going into tomorrow's general elections, an Observer-commissioned opinion poll conducted by Mark Wignall has shown.

Hurricane Dean - A Partial Picture Story

2007-08-31T08:17:00.000-05:00

Some telling images of Hurricane Dean as he swept through jamaica.

Toronto Star - Hurricane Dean tears ugly swath through Caribbean, heading for Mexico

2007-08-20T22:21:00.000-05:00

KINGSTON, Jamaica–Hurricane Dean toppled trees and tore off roofs in Jamaica's capital city as local residents huddled in their homes and emergency shelters.
Daniel Dale - staff reporter

Jamaica Observer - Dean's fury claims 3 lives

2007-08-20T22:16:00.000-05:00

HURRICANE Dean's monstrous winds and relentless rains claimed two lives in St Thomas and possibly a third in St Catherine yesterday, as it pounded the parish, forcing scores of families out of their homes, downing power lines and inundating roadways.

Jamaica Gleaner News - IN RUINS - Hurricane Dean claims one life

2007-08-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

State of emergency declared - Blackouts for at least 48 hrs

JAMAICANS TODAY awoke to scenes of destruction in the aftermath of Hurricane Dean, whose outer bands ploughed through southern parishes claiming one life and damaging the country's housing stock.

Hardbeatnews

2007-08-20T22:11:00.000-05:00

Hardbeatnews, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Mon. Aug. 20, 12:30 p.m.: The government of Jamaica is beginning a damage assessment following the passage of Hurricane Dean late yesterday.

The Jamaica Public Service Company says the results of preliminary assessments in the aftermath of Hurricane Dean should be available by 1:30 p.m. local time. Flooding and downed trees and power lines is reported in some parts as well as roofless houses. There are no reports of deaths but two injuries are reported as police shot two looters.

Connect with The ODPEM in Jamaica

2007-08-20T21:51:00.000-05:00

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management is committed to taking pro-active and timely measures to prevent or reduce the impact of hazards on Jamaica, its people, natural resources and economy through its trained and professional staff, the use of appropriate technology and collaborative efforts with national, regional and international agencies.

HURRICANE WARNING LIFTED

2007-08-20T21:41:00.000-05:00

OFFICE OF DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

For Immediate Release

NEWS RELEASE # 15

ISSUED ON: Monday, August 20, 2007 at 6:00pm

HURRICANE WARNING LIFTED FOR THE ISLAND

The Hurricane warning was lifted for the island of Jamaica at 10:00am by the Meteorological Service. In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Dean the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) reports that, regrettably, two persons were confirmed dead from the parishes of Clarendon and St. Thomas.

Blocked Roadways

A number of blocked roads have been reported from the Kingston Metropolitan Area, Western and Northeastern sections of the island, details of which are as follows:

Westmoreland:

Single lane traffic from Bogue to Content
Hopeton to Auchin Town blocked
Chestercastle to Jacksongate (Westmoreland end) blocked
Single lane traffic in the Three Miles area

St. James:

Anchovy to Mount Honeb is impassable and the Richmond route is reduced to single lane traffic.
Downed JPS wires from Chestercastle to Jacksongate (Hanover end)

Trelawny:

Single lane traffic from:

Rock to Steer Town
Falmouth to Springvale
Martha Brae to Kinloss

Work is currently in progress to clear all blocked roads from:

Rio Bueno to Jackson Town
Duncans to Long Pond
Salt Marsh to Kent
Hamdem to Wakefield
Deeside to Drumily

Portland:

All main roads have been cleared except roadways from Muirton to Fair Prospect and Hector’s River to Muirton in Buff Bay.

St. Catherine:

The Bog Walk area and roads from Ewarton to Mount Diablo are open to single lane traffic.

St. Ann

Single lane traffic:

From Priory to Bamboo
Hopewell to Ocho Rios
Green Park to St. Ann’s Bay
Milford to Parry Town
Brown’s Town to Bamboo
Brown’s Town to Alexandria
Moneague to Blackstonedge

Shelters:

Earlier today 268 shelters remained open across the island, housing some 6,445 persons. This number is expected to decrease as persons return to their respective homes.

Airports:

The roadway leading to the Norman Manley airport is now open to single lane traffic and the airport is currently accommodating emergency flights only. Full operations should resume tomorrow. At the other end of the island, the Donald Sangster Airport has re-opened to the public.

Coordination of Relief Supplies:

The National Welfare Sub-committee has met and is seeking to establish registration centres for the impacted communities. These registration centres will be located at Seven-Day Adventist Churches island-wide and other soon to be named locations. Emergency distribution of critical relief supplies has commenced and is being coordinated through the Parish Disaster Committee.

Further updates will be supplied as available.

Contact:

Krechet Douglas-Greaves

Information and Training Unit, ODPEM

928-5111-4

kdouglas-greaves@odpem.org.jm

Hurricane Dean - Satellite Image

2007-08-19T13:55:00.000-05:00

Tropical Floater One Visible Imagery - Satellite Services Division

Tropical Storm: Tracking Map : Weather Underground

2007-08-19T09:22:00.000-05:00

For live information from Jamaica

Listen to Power 106 FM

Telephone: (876) 968-4880-3

Talk Show Lines:(876) 968-4901-3

Overseas Numbers courtesy of JNBS
UK
0207 708 6670
0207 708 6672
USA
(954) 535 5761
(954) 535 5762

International Toll-free line courtesy of People's Telecom Jamaica Ltd: 1-866-LINK-106 (1-866-5465-106)

Fax: (876) 968-9165

E-mail: power106@cwjamaica.com

Address: 6 Bradley Avenue, Kingston 10, Jamaica W.I.

Reggae Festivals

2007-08-18T14:57:00.002-05:00

Annual Jamaica Day Celebration

2007-07-23T06:59:00.000-05:00

Annual Jamaica Day Celebration

Featuring talented artists such as:


Sanchez	Ernie Smith	Professor Nuts	Tinga Stewart

VC	Symphoni	Tanya Mullings	Jimmy Reid

and many more talented artists!

Check out our Event Details page for a full day of action-packed activities and entertainment!

Bring the whole family for a day of fun music and laughter!

Save as Draft

Sly and Robbie & The Taxi Gang

2007-07-18T11:15:00.000-05:00

Sly and Robbie & The Taxi Gang
with Special Guests,
Horace Andy, Cherine and Tréson

TUESDAY, AUGUST 21, 2007
Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto, ON
Doors 8:00 pm Show 9:00 pm

Granny's Inspiration hits number 1 on Roots 96.1 FM in Kingston, Jamaica

2007-06-29T19:31:00.000-05:00

"Singing granny has hit song in Jamaica

The Brampton Guardian
Saturday June 23 2007
TINA DEPKO, Staff Writer

Maud Fraser, 73, wrote her first song two years ago, which recently went on to top the charts at a radio station in Jamaica.

Grief affects people in different ways.

Maud Fraser said she couldn't even get out of bed after losing James, her husband of 34 years, in August 2005.

But the 73-year-old was determined to feel alive again, so she picked up a pen and paper and started writing.

The result was Granny's Inspiration, a song about following your dreams, no matter how impossible they seem.

'It was like my husband was telling me to do some writing, even though he wasn't here, because he always worried about me being happy and loved me,' she said. 'My husband was one of the best people in the world. Doing something positive when you lose a loved one is the best medication.'

A reggae version of the song recorded by Fraser hit number 1 on Roots 96.1 FM in Kingston, Jamaica in February, also receiving regular play on other stations on the island."

Ex-Beatle recruits Sizzla, Lady Saw, Cherine Anderson for remix - JAMAICAOBSERVER.COM

2007-06-29T19:17:00.000-05:00

Ex-Beatle recruits Sizzla, Lady Saw, Cherine Anderson for remix - JAMAICAOBSERVER.COM: "Ex-Beatle recruits Sizzla, Lady Saw, Cherine Anderson for remix
Basil Walters, Observer staff reporter
Friday, June 29, 2007

Former Beatle Paul McCartney has crossed over into dancehall with the release of a single on the heels of his new album, Memory Almost Full. The remix single, Nod Your Head, is produced by Sly and Robbie and features Sizzla, Lady Saw and Cherine Anderson."

Jamaica Gleaner News - King Stitt honoured for half-century of sound system service - Sunday | May 27, 2007

2007-06-03T03:05:00.000-05:00

Jamaica Gleaner News - King Stitt honoured for half-century of sound system service - Sunday | May 27, 2007: "King Stitt honoured for half-century of sound system service"

Bob Marley to be honoured by Ghanaian Government - Peppa Pot Maga-Zeen

2007-06-03T02:56:00.000-05:00

Bob Marley to be honoured by Ghanaian Government - Peppa Pot Maga-Zeen: "Bob Marley to be honoured by Ghanaian Government

'I am a proud African, proud of my land, proud of my people, committed to making the third millennium the African millennium.'

Bob Marley has been specially selected to be honoured by the Government of Ghana 'Akwaaba Anyemi Programme' under the 'The Joseph Project'. His widow, Mrs Rita Marley has been invited to collect the award at the launch of The Joseph Project on Saturday, July 21 to Sunday, August 12 in Accra, Ghana.

Bob Marley was selected by a nominating committee of Africans, who have similarly excelled in their own fields, and thought it important to honour him. The purpose of The Joseph Project is to change the '21st Century' into the 'African Century'."

The Teaching Profession > Ministry of Education

2007-06-03T02:48:00.000-05:00

The Teaching Profession > Ministry of Education: "Ontario Teaching Certification

To teach in a publicly funded school in Ontario you need an Ontario teaching certificate from the Ontario College of Teachers. To obtain a teaching certificate you will normally need an undergraduate degree, and one year of teacher training. Teacher training is available at Ontario universities offering the Bachelor of Education program."

Internationally Trained Teachers (ITT)

Teachers trained outside Ontario must satisfy the basic requirements of certification in Ontario. The Ontario College of Teachers evaluates the qualifications of applicants and, if satisfied, will issue an Interim Certificate of Qualification (ICQ), pending completion of 194 days of successful teaching in an Ontario classroom. The ICQ can be converted to a Certificate of Qualification by completing the conditions placed on the certificate, including 194 days of successful teaching in an Ontario classroom.

BBC NEWS | Americas | Coach Woolmer 'was not murdered'

2007-06-02T15:06:00.000-05:00

BBC NEWS | Americas | Coach Woolmer 'was not murdered': "Coach Woolmer 'was not murdered'
Bob Woolmer
There have been a host of theories surrounding Mr Woolmer's death
Scotland Yard detectives have told Jamaican police that the former Pakistan cricket coach, Bob Woolmer, was not murdered, the BBC understands.

The apparent verdict follows work by a UK Home Office pathologist, who flew to Jamaica to probe Mr Woolmer's death."

Carnivalissima kicks-off at Harbourfront Centre from June 8 to 10!

2007-06-02T09:42:00.000-05:00

Celebrate all the world’s great Carnivals all in one place, with an entire weekend of nonstop Harbourfront Centre events!

Carnivalissima – Produced by Luminato and Harbourfront Centre, from June 8 to 10 – A bold celebration of the world's most lavish carnivals, all in one place.

Harbourfront Centre site and the entire waterfront area will transform into several celebratory squares filled with dance, music, art, film, fashion, family and kids’ events, international crafts, cuisine and all things to amaze and amuse you. From the gala opening Masquerade Ball, to this wildly popular southern Caribbean dance music featuring Ricki Jai, the number one rated chutney artist worldwide and Guyana's most recorded artist Terry Gajraj. Closing concert by soca king Machel Montano & Xtatik and vibrant Tout monde ca Danse.Imagine a "sensory overload" that has you wondering which way to turn! A spotlight on the diversity and creativity of Toronto through the speckled lens of carnival and spectacle.

Events take place at Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West on Friday, June 8, 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday, June 9, 10:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. & Sunday, June 10, 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. All performances are FREE! For more information please call 416-973-4000 or visit harbourfrontcentre.com.

Carnivalissima Highlights!

The ONE Campaign

2007-06-02T09:07:00.000-05:00

Please sign the petition calling on the G8 to get back on track to keep their historic promises to the developing world. The

The ONE Campaign: "Send a Message to the G8

Please sign the petition The ONE Campaign to send an important message to the G8 leaders that we, all citizens of the world, want our leaders to do all they can to fight extreme poverty and global disease."

NFB - Production & distribution - REEL DIVERSITY 2006

2007-06-02T08:03:00.000-05:00

NFB - Production & distribution - REEL DIVERSITY 2006: "
The NFB’s Reel Diversity competition is now seeking submissions by emerging filmmakers of colour. Reel Diversity gives three promising directors the chance to direct their documentary for broadcast on CBC Newsworld.

CALL FOR ENTRIES: October 27, 2006 Deadline

A National Film Board of Canada initiative in partnership with CBC Newsworld.

The NFB invites emerging filmmakers of colour to submit their proposals for a TV-hour documentary. Up to eight finalists will have the chance to develop their proposals and attend a 3-day intensive training session. Three winners will be selected to make their own NFB documentaries and have them broadcast on CBC Newsworld."

Tanya Mullings CD Launch June, 17 2007

2007-05-19T07:36:00.000-05:00

Vere Reunion Bash

2007-05-04T17:45:00.000-05:00

CMJ Entertainment - Events / Shows

RASE TV:::2007 Canadian Reggae Star talent search

2007-04-29T13:56:00.000-05:00

RASE TV:::2007 Canadian Reggae Star talent search

-= KEEPACHILDALIVE.ORG =-

2007-04-29T09:53:00.000-05:00

-= KEEPACHILDALIVE.ORG =-

"The incredible assault of HIV-AIDS on women in particular has no parallel in human history. The pandemic is preying on them relentlessly, threatening them in a way that the world has never yet witnessed" - Stephen Lewis

The ONE Campaign is a new effort to rally Americans to fight the emergency of global AIDS and extreme poverty. They are inextricably linked. Each ONE of us can make a difference. Together as ONE we can change the world. Sign the One declaration TODAY.

Reggae in Canada

2007-04-16T06:51:00.000-05:00

... The first artist to record reggae in Canada was Jackie Mittoo, followed by Stranger Cole, Tony Eden, Audley Williams, the Webber Sisters, Leroy Brown, and Joe Issacs. In 1976, Toronto's Ishan People made the first of two albums for GRT. In the next 15 years, however, Messenjah, Sattalites, and Leroy Brown were the few reggae artists to record for a major Canadian label.

Hopeton Lewis, Artist of the Month March 2007 - The Crucible.

2007-03-04T13:31:00.000-05:00

Hopeton Lewis was born in Kingston, Jamaica W.I. And grew up in Burnt Savannah, Westmoreland. At the age of 6, while attending the Burnt Savannah Holiness Church, his talent for singing was discovered. This ushered in the beginning of his singing career. Several years later, he returned to Kingston to live with his grandparents in Mountain View Avenue. While attending the Windward Road Primary School, he was awarded a scholarship to attend Camperdown High School. By the time he turned 15 years old, both grandparents died and he was left to fend for himself.

His ambition, zest for life and his love for music, inspired him to form his first group "The Regals". Hopeton did his first recording at Studio One and from there went on to become one of the key players in the evolution of Jamaican popular music. Soon he moved to Federal Recording Company, where he did a number of recordings including his hit song "Take It Easy" which started the Rock steady Era, In 1970 he won the Festival Song Competition with the hit song, "Boom Shaka-Laka" on the Treasure Isles Label. While singing under the Byron Lee's Dynamic Sound Label, his recording "Grooving Out On Life" reached gold status in 1973. He then join Byron Lee & the Dragonaires band as lead singer and tour with the group for over 4 years, after leaving the group he went on to perform on the hotel circuit throughout Jamaica and other Caribbean Islands.

Mr. Lewis has now returned to his first love worshiping the Lord through" Gospel Music" and continues to spread the word extensively through North America, the Caribbean and Europe delivering the Spiritual message of One Love, God's Love.

In 1996, he released his debut gospel CD, "This is Gospel" he has since released 12 other gospel CDs. On these CD’s are some original songs written by him and produced under his own recording label, Rockstone Music Production and Songs 4 Life Ministry.

To date, he has performed with various gospel artistes including, Candi Staton, Tramaine Hawkins, Alvin Slaughter and Monty Alexanderto name a few.

The transatlantic slave trade...

2007-03-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

The transatlantic slave trade is largely responsible for bringing to the Americas enslaved Africans.

This slave trade is said to have drawn between ten and twenty million Africans from their homeland, with approximately six hundred thousand coming to Jamaica (one of the largest importer of slaves at the time) between 1533 and 1807.

To find out more, click the link below.

CrucibleSOURCE

NATIONAL LIBRARY OF JAMAICA
12 East Street, Kingston, Jamaica
Telephone: [876] 967-1526, 967-2516, 967-2494, 967-2496
Fax: [876] 922-5567
Copyright © 1997-2005 National Library of Jamaica
Last updated: February 22, 2007 06:44 AM
Email: nljresearch@cwjamaica.com

2007-02-02T22:51:00.000-05:00

Father of Popular Radio Host Dies
Allan Brown dies at 91

At approximately 11:50 a.m. on Tuesday, January 30, 2007, Mr. Allan Brown died at the Humber River Regional Hospital – Church Street Site (HRRH) in Toronto.
He was 91.

Mr. Brown, (Mass Allan) is survived by his wife Delphena Brown, (Miss Tiny) and children; Pearl Walters in England, Luther Brown in Toronto, Alous (Foster) and Dennevan (Denny) in Jamaica, and Owen (Owie) in the USA., and daughters-in-law, Rev. Paulette, Sophia, and Merle. There are 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Visitation for Mr. Allan Brown will be on Thursday, February 8th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and on Friday 9th from 7:00 to 9:p.m.at Ward Funeral Home, 2035 Weston Road in Toronto.

The funeral service will be at Westmount Gospel Chapel, where he was a member, on Saturday February 10, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. The church is located at 59 Kingdom Street in Etobicoke. (Scarlet Road & Lawrence) Interment follows at The Beechwood Cemetery, 7241 Jane Street.

Mass Allan and Miss Tiny have been married since January 13, 1957. They lived at Dover Castle, St. Catherine, Jamaica and migrated to Canada in October 1989. After hospitalization in October of 2005, he became a resident of Yorkview Lifecare Centre in order to receive appropriate care. While at Yorkview, he regained strength and mobility and was well respected by his caregivers. After a short hospitalization, he died peacefully on Tuesday, January 30. His son Luther was with him.

Mass Allan is an example of a father who knew the values of hard work, faith in God and service to community. In his homeland Jamaica where he worked as a carpenter, he earned the respect of his peers as a master tradesman. He served as an elder in the Redwood Gospel Hall church, where he was responsible for prayer services and communion. He was one of the founding members of the Redwood Community Center, and he served as President of the Redwood Parent Teachers Association. On migrating to a new country, he quickly got involved. At the Westmount Gospel Chapel, he was responsible for serving communion. He worked as an Attendant at the Snack Counter at the Driftwood Community Centre, where he won the admiration staff and youth as a caring and firm leader.

Pearl, Mr. Brown’s eldest is retired and lives in England. Dennevan is a Teacher who doubles as a Programme Host on ROOTS FM in Jamaica, Owen, is in the construction industry in the USA., Alous is a Telecommunications engineering manager in Jamaica, and Luther is a school Principal in The Toronto District School Board and the producer/host of Caribbean Crucible on CHRY 105.5 FM, Toronto

Mr. Brown’s 91 years is a profound lesson in gratitude to God

Sherona Johnson – Hall, Dead at 59

2007-01-13T16:45:00.000-05:00

Our tribute to
Sherona Johnson – Hall
April 26, 1948 – December 30, 2006

Community Leader, Activist, Mother, Friend First-born daughter of Harold Johnson and Clementina Gale, Sherona Hall grew up in a family of -5 brothers and sisters in Kingston, Jamaica. Witnessing the impoverished conditions within her community, she was inspired to take action. At an early age, she dedicated herself to promoting human and civil rights.

As a teen, so influenced was she by the body politic of the day in her native Jamaica that she became the co-founder and secretary of the Youth League of the People's National Party of Jamaica.

Additionally, Sherona supported the fight for independence in Southern Africa throughout the late 1970's by participating in seminars, open discussions and demonstrations, thus keeping the focus of the peoples struggle constant within the media - and on the minds of many concerned Canadians.

She always defended the aims and objectives of the youth throughout her community work as well. Sherona never wavered in her advocacy. Whether it was affordable housing for youth, employment issues or the struggles faced by youth caught up inside the criminal justice system, she always stood firm in the belief that political education and cultural awareness were seminal to youth achieving in this world.

She worked for over 30 years as a court reporter, the last two decades in her own firm, thereby creating a template for business entrepreneurship while opening doors for employment of young men and women pursuing this field. She struggled alongside her fellow sisters and brothers to help give a voice to African women and marginalized groups in a political context therefore providing a space for political dialogue to occur.

At the age of only 59, Sherona's decades of tireless, organizing, campaigning, personal sacrifice and boundless generosity leave an unforgettable legacy for thousands of people in Toronto, Jamaica, across Canada and around the world.

To cherish her memory, she leaves her son, Lowell Ruddy and brothers, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Sherona Johnson – Hall
April 26, 1948 – December 30, 2006

Crucible Awards 2006

2007-01-07T23:01:00.000-05:00

Artist	Award	Year	Title	Country
Gyptian	#1 Dance Hall Single	2006	If You Really Love Me	Canada
Steel	#1 Single	2006	Confession	Canada
Cham & Alicia Keys	#1 Single, International	2006	Ghetto Story	Jamaica/USA
Jully Black	Artist of the Year Female	2006	This is Me	Canada
Sean Paul	Artist of the Year, International	2006		Jamaica
Leroy Brown	Artist of the Year Male	2006		Canada
Jay Douglas	CD/Lp of the Year	2006	Touch Of Magic	Canada
Tasha T	CD/Lp of the Year	2006	Tasha T	Canada
Dermott Williams	Circle Of Distinction	2006	Radio	Canada
JoJo Bennett	Circle Of Distinction	2006	Foundation Bassist /A&R	Jamaica
Leroy Sibbles	Circle Of Distinction	2006	Foundation Bassist /A&R	Jamaica
Milton Blake	Circle Of Distinction	2006	Radio	Canada
Pluggy Satchmo	Circle Of Distinction	2006	Dance	Canada
Prince Buster	Circle Of Distinction	2006	Preducer/Artist	Jamaica
Super V	Circle Of Distinction	2006	Radio	Canada
Bitty MCLean	Comeback Artist	2006		UK
Ghost	Comeback Artist	2006		Jamaica
Horace Martin	Comeback Artist	2006	Pozitive Vibez	Canada
Alaine	Crucible Mention	2006		Jamaica
Keith Poppin	Crucible Mention	2006	Get Togher	USA
LA Allen	Crucible Mention	2006		Canada
Orville (Wiz) Malcolm	Crucible Mention	2006		Canada
Otis I	Crucible Mention	2006	Nah Hear	Canada
Nana McLean	Gospel Album	2006	Breakthrough	Canada
Prince Everald	Longevity	2006		Canada
The Mighty Mystic	Longevity	2006		Canada
Walli Rich	Longevity	2006		Canada
Willie Williams	Longevity	2006		Canada
Explorer Productions	Producer of the Year	2006		Canada
Eddie Grant	Respect Due	2006		Canada
George Nooks	Respect Due	2006		Jamaica
Jimmy Reid	Respect Due	2006		Canada
Partick Roots	Respect Due	2006	Radio	Jamaica
Tipper	Respect Due	2006	Classic Review	Canada
Winston Richards	Respect Due	2006	Writer/Producer	Canada
Humble	Rising Star	2006		Canada
Michael Thompson	Rising Star	2006		Canada
Tami Chynn	Rising Star	2006		Jamaica/USA
Treson	Rising Star	2006		Canada

NEVILLE NEWTON MONTROSE WILLOUGHBY1937 - 2006

2006-12-24T15:51:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, December 20th, 2006
Veteran Broadcaster,
Neville Willoughby is dead at age 69
1937 - 2006

"Mr. Willoughby dedicated his career to the highest standards of professionalism while being an active participant in the country's development through the arts in his capacity as a singer and song writer."

Jamaica's Prime Minister Simpson Miller

For more visit The Legendary Neville Willoughby

From The Jamaica Observer comes this excerpted story

... "While studying psychology at the University of Toronto in Canada, he sang with the Hart House Glee Club and took part in many musical performances on campus. He travelled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, but came back to Jamaica to launch his career in media. A task that would prove to be a lot harder than he initially thought, as former JBC General Manager, Peter Alien, rejected him for the position of announcer."

"Being an individual not willing to give up, Willoughby auditioned for RJR and was still not welcomed with open arms. But perseverance paid off as he sat in the RJR lobby many days waiting to be given a job, until finally the management of the station obliged him and allowed him to commence his broadcasting career."

His deceptively simplistic but accurate interviewing style allowed the ordinary listener to get to know what they wanted.

For the full story visit The Jamaica Observer.

Toronto Preschool Speech and Language Services

2006-11-19T22:52:00.000-05:00

Toronto Preschool Speech and Language Services Toronto Preschool Speech and Language Services (TPSLS) provides two community based programs (Infant Hearing Program and Preschool Speech and Language Services) that provide information and services for infants, toddlers and preschool children.

Infant Hearing Program (IHP) A community program designed to identify infants born deaf or hard of hearing and provide follow up supports and services.

Preschool Speech and Language Services (PSLS) A community partnership designed to deliver speech and language services for preschool children, toddlers and preschool children.

Languages - Brochures Arabic, Chinese, French, Hindi, Italian, Korean, Polish, Ojicree, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, Urdu, Vietnamese.

Visit Toronto Preschool Speech and Language Services

Settlement.Org: Education Newcomers' Guide to Elementary School (Public School Board)

2006-11-14T10:55:00.000-05:00

This guide provides information and suggestions that will help you establish good communication with your child’s teacher and the school. Good communication makes it easier for the teacher to get to know your child and for you to understand what is happening in school.

Settlement.Org: Newcomers' Guide to Elementary School (Public School Board)

Redemption September 29 ... nice expression of fun & love

2006-09-30T10:24:00.000-05:00

Great to see and feel the energy at the September 2006 Redemption!

DJs were on point!

Tony Rebel, the Special Guest, was an instant connect

Black Reaction gave a glimpse of their readiness to claim New York

There was a lot-a-love in the house!

Its just great to see people enjoying themselves!

It was also good to feel the music loud!

Next Redemption December

Manufacturing Consent, Noam Chomsky, Edward S. Herman excerpt, ThinkingPeace

2006-09-24T01:27:00.000-05:00

Manufacturing Consent, Noam Chomsky, Edward S. Herman excerpt, ThinkingPeace: "The mass media serve as a system for communicating messages and symbols to the general populace. It is their function to amuse, entertain, and inform, and to inculcate individuals with the values, beliefs, and codes of behavior that will integrate them into the institutional structures of the larger society. In a world of concentrated wealth and major conflicts of class interest, to fulfill this role requires systematic propaganda. "

Joseph Hill, Living On Through His Lyrics

2006-09-12T22:51:00.000-05:00

Miss Lou For National Hero Of Jamaica

2006-09-11T18:34:00.000-05:00

Do you have what it takes to interest our audience?

2006-09-07T06:37:00.000-05:00

DO YOU HAVE IT? ...

The Crucible is looking for guests who are willing to share stories of HOPE! Stories that:
Help people find their way
Open avenues to success through believing in and applying oneself
Provide strategies for advancing oneself
Encouraging wealth creation without wealth obsession

The Crucible is looking for guests who are artists that are cutting edge, trend setting in music, the visual, literary or the performing arts?

The Crucible is looking for artists who do reggae and have 5Star material ready for the exposure in order to bus out!

The Crucible is looking for guests who successfully navigated our education system.

The Crucible is looking for guests who are community builders and leaders.

If you have it let's flaunt it!

Contact: The Crucible here at www.myspace.com/caribbeancrucible
Or crucible@aci.on.ca
Or
Luther Brown - Caribbean Crucible
CHRY 105.5FM
413, Student Centre
York University
Toronto, ON
M3J 1P3
Canada

A New season of The Crucible, and ... it's also Back To School Time!

2006-09-03T10:04:00.000-05:00

Luther Brown is back hosting live. This is an invitation for you to join him today at 6:00 p.m. (Est) on 105.5 FM or www.yorku.ca/chry
It's the beginning of a New Season of The Crucible LIVE on 105.5 FM.

Nuff Nuff THANKS to CLive and GRuss for hosting during August!

The Crucible Artist for SEPTEMBER is the band Truths and Rights. Check out The Truths and Rights Myspace.

School is back on Tuesday are you ready? Check out this Back to School link from the Ministry of Education Ontario

The Crucible joins the rest of the world in celebrating the life of Joseph Hill.

My live Joseph Hill experience started one evening at the Linstead All Age School where The Soul Defenders played supporting role for Freddiy McKay as their song Picture On The Wall exploded across Jamaica and eventually the rest of the world. Hill was on percussion then.
Our condolences to his family. His music and the experiences we have shared will cause Joseph Hill - Culture to live on in perpetuity!
Visit The Culture Website for funeral arrangements and other important information.

Please sign The Miss Lou for National Hero of Jamaica Petition

Please tell us where you listen to us from. Email us at: crucible@aci.on.ca

Tell us your:
City/Town:
Province/State/Parish:
Major Intersection:
Country:

l8a

Current Toronto Weather

2006-08-29T05:45:00.000-05:00

Current Toronto Weather

Some Toronto Based Artists to Pay Attention To ..

2006-08-23T09:21:00.000-05:00

Many communities would like to showcase their artists as premier, so it might not be surprising that someone from Toronto is sounding the trumpet regarding Artists based in Toronto.
Hear them for what its worth and make your decision. I believe you, like me, will find them enjoyable, exciting and even intriguing.

Leroy Brown
The veteran of TO's music dropping some wicked vibes! More Info. ... Check out Leroy's Official Website!

Tanya Mullings
Winner of several Crucible Awards, She is serving up fresh DJ style vibes on Nuh Easy, and a great return to Lovers Rock in combination with Tonto Metroon Right Where U R on The Music Man Riddim.

Steele
Former Tatix Band member gone solo. Steele is building a catalogue of great music. His singing compliments everything he writes and gives new meaning and feel to each song that he covers. Watch Out World!

Tasha T
Baddest SingJay! Tasha T has a great vocal presence on her recordings. As a DJ she bobs and weaves as the riddim ebbs and flows. Great Lyrics and melodies!

Prince Everald
Veteran of the Roots Reggae genre, Prince, an excellent stage performer, has released Prince Everald and Friends vol. 2 on which we get to experience his breadth. From Mother Mother to Glorify The King.

Sonia Collymore
The 2003 JUNO Award winner served up a good collection of songs on her WYSIWYG album. Great vocal stylings!

Jah Beng
River of Healing serves up a platter of great musical backing. Jah Beng has stepped up to the plate. Enjoy the searvings!

Willi Williams
Mention Armagideon Time and reggae lovers will identify it as an anthem. Willi is still creating awwsome works.

Humble
The name fits his character. His music however tells the story of a conviction to justice. Listen to his works and watch him work you will see feel the power of his works. Nice vocals.

Treson
YOU have to listen to experience what he has to offer!

Jason Wilson & Tabarruk
There must have been reggae in the milk he was fed as a child! Fluent pianist, he leads a tight band playing reggae with his own world influence.

Odel
This is a Powerhouse artist! Fresh yet familiar tonal qualities weaves its way throughout this musical journey! Enjoy the trip!

Here's hoping that you've enjoy the Taste of Toronto served here today, and that you will feel the need to explore more. More great music and great vibe are served on The Crucible is aired Sundays from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. www.yorku.ca/chry

Crucible Awards Since 1993

2006-08-16T06:54:00.000-05:00

The Crucible Awards are usually announced on the first Sunday in January each year.

This is one of the first recoognition for achievement in Reggae Music published. Quite often the awards/recognitions that follow are in agreement with The Crucible Awards.

We are proud of this achievement. Please click the link below for a the listing.

Crucible Awards Since 1993

National Honours and Awards Announced - JIS

2006-08-11T19:37:00.000-05:00

113 persons to receive National Honours and Awards, as released by the Office of the Prime Minister. The awards will be conferred on the recipients on National Heroes Day, October 16.

The Crucible congratulates these winners and thanks them for their contribution to the development of music in Jamaica and The World.

The Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander (CD) -

Keith 'Bob Andy' Anderson, for sterling contribution to the development of Reggae Music;
Asley 'Grub' Cooper, OD, for his contribution to Music;
Newton James, for outstanding contribution to Broadcasting;
Lenbert Little-White, for outstanding contribution in the fields of Communication and the Film industry;

The Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer (OD).

Boris Gardener, for long and dedicated service in the Music industry;
Lloyd 'King Jammy' James, for sterling contribution to the Music industry, and
Glenroy 'Ernie' Smith, for outstanding contribution to Music and Jamaica's Cultural Development.

Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service to Krishna Deonarine, for his commitment to the development of Indian music in Jamaica.

lb

Miss Lou for National Hero -

2006-08-11T07:20:00.000-05:00

We have a tendency to amass praise and great accolades to people after they die! Im therefore glad that Miss Lou, the Hon. Louise Bennett Coverley, did hear from Jamaicans and from people around the world that she was valued, respected and loved. I am glad also that she heard the LOUD call from the people and from the stage at Emancipation Park in August of 2003 for her to be accorded the status of National Hero.

Her life's work has done so much to enrich humanity; she has given voice to those whose voices could not be heard, and identified the self-worth that was being suppressed by colonial history along with its systems of governance and learning.

Because of Miss Lou a people began to speak and hear themselves with pride. She has given wings to Bob Marley and Sean Paul, to Oku Onuora, Mutabaruka and Fae Ellington, Oliver Samuels and Leonie Forbes. She has given voice and pride to every likkle Jamaican Pickney!

Is there another Jamaican who has single-handedly done so much for Ja?

Jamaica has seven National Heroes: Paul Bogle, Sir Alexander Bustamante, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, George William Gordon, Norman Washington Manley, Nanny of The Maroons, and Sam Sharp.

Should Miss Lou be added to this list of Heroes?

Please Sign The Petition Here: http://www.PetitionOnline.com/Misslou/petition.html
tks.
lb

The Crucible OnLine ...

Will AfricanCanadian students achievement improve?

Lord Tanamo suffers stroke

CTV.ca | Luther Brown: Back in T-dot

Luther Brown: Back in T-dot

Mikey Dread. Dead at 54

Barack Obama : : Change We Can Believe In | Sam Graham-Felsen's Blog: Senator Barack Obama Receives Endorsement of Flag Officers from Army, Navy and A

International Women's Day 2008: Investing in Women and Girls

TheStar.com - Ending the silence to save history

Crucible Awards 2007

Africa Unite Symposium in Jamaica - Ziggy Marley

080129_Africentric_1217.pdf (application/pdf Object)

Promoting CRITICAL LITERACY

TheStar.com | GTA | Key recommendations for safer schools

Oscar Peterson: A Jazz Giant

Click to Order your Crucible Calendar $10.00

Grammy® Nomination for Burning Spear

Jay Douglas @ Mod Club

21st. CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS NOMINATIONS

CANADIAN SOCA / CALYPSO AWARDS

TOP INTERNATIONAL REGGAE AWARDS

SPECIAL AWARDS

SPECIAL AWARDS

Canadian Awards of Merit

International Awards of Merit

The BOB MARLEY Memorial Award

Canadian Radio D.J. Award

Burning Spear receives Order of Distinction

Black Community Education Forum

SMOOTH JAZZY GROOVES

South Africa bids farewell to murdered reggae star Lucky Dube | Entertainment | Reuters

THE ANNUAL CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS

Memorial Service for Milton Blake

Celebrating Milton Blake

Milton Blake - In His Own Words

Gunmen kill reggae star Lucky Dube | Entertainment | Reuters

Gunmen kill reggae star Lucky Dube

Related Video

Related News

'da Kink in my hair t.v show comes to Global Television on Oct 14 at 7:30pm

Bob Ruglass Performs in Mississauga

Memorial Tribute

JAMAICA Election 2007

Observer-commissioned opinion poll

Hurricane Dean - A Partial Picture Story

Toronto Star - Hurricane Dean tears ugly swath through Caribbean, heading for Mexico

Jamaica Observer - Dean's fury claims 3 lives

Jamaica Gleaner News - IN RUINS - Hurricane Dean claims one life

Hardbeatnews

Connect with The ODPEM in Jamaica

HURRICANE WARNING LIFTED

OFFICE OF DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

HURRICANE WARNING LIFTED FOR THE ISLAND

Hurricane Dean - Satellite Image

Tropical Storm: Tracking Map : Weather Underground

Reggae Festivals

Annual Jamaica Day Celebration

Sly and Robbie & The Taxi Gang

Granny's Inspiration hits number 1 on Roots 96.1 FM in Kingston, Jamaica

Ex-Beatle recruits Sizzla, Lady Saw, Cherine Anderson for remix - JAMAICAOBSERVER.COM

Jamaica Gleaner News - King Stitt honoured for half-century of sound system service - Sunday | May 27, 2007

Bob Marley to be honoured by Ghanaian Government - Peppa Pot Maga-Zeen

The Teaching Profession > Ministry of Education

BBC NEWS | Americas | Coach Woolmer 'was not murdered'

Carnivalissima kicks-off at Harbourfront Centre from June 8 to 10!

The ONE Campaign

NFB - Production & distribution - REEL DIVERSITY 2006

Tanya Mullings CD Launch June, 17 2007

Vere Reunion Bash

RASE TV:::2007 Canadian Reggae Star talent search

-= KEEPACHILDALIVE.ORG =-

Reggae in Canada

Hopeton Lewis, Artist of the Month March 2007 - The Crucible.

The transatlantic slave trade...

Sherona Johnson – Hall, Dead at 59

Crucible Awards 2006

NEVILLE NEWTON MONTROSE WILLOUGHBY1937 - 2006

Toronto Preschool Speech and Language Services

Settlement.Org: Education Newcomers' Guide to Elementary School (Public School Board)

Redemption September 29 ... nice expression of fun & love