GW Art produces a new version of a crowd fave Painting!

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GW Art’s new version of ‘Eat Well Travel Often’ on (8×10)” Acrylic on Canvas to hang

Get GW Art in your space today! #BuyLocal

For the Holiday season GW Art will be at Conu’co Market in Ocho Rios on Sunday, December 2nd and at Suga Lifestyle’s Christmas Connection on Saturday, December 15th at The Liguanea Club, New Kingston!

GW Art

Email: [email protected]

Ph: 876-422-3769

Website (Gallery):

http://www.sugalifestyle.com

Instagram: @gwartbygabby

Facebook: Suga Lifestyle

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Artist)

If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

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It’s Pharmacy Week and Fontana has a SALE and FREE Health Checks!

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November 18 – 24 is Pharmacy Week 2018 under the theme, Diabetes and Kidney Health. Join Fontana Pharmacy at all locations everyday for discounts, sampling, promotions, free blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure checks, expert advice and more!

Good Health is Wealth.

Fontana Pharmacy

Locations: Kingston (Barbican Square), Ocho Rios (Eight Rivers Town Centre), Savanna-la-Mar (Beckford Plaza), Montego Bay (Fairview Shopping Centre)

Phone: 1-888-429-5887

Email: [email protected]

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

The 3-in-1 Cemetery, Voodoo and French Quarter Tour, New Orleans. Is the Voodoo real?

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(L-R) Stephaney Farquharson, Racquell Brown, Gabrielle Burgess, Taraja Richards, Anya Pennycooke, Songe Sandcroft and Glennette Sinclair in front of St. Louis Cemetery #1, New Orleans, LA.

Flingback Friday to the 3-in-1 Cemetery, Voodoo & French Quarter Tour ($13 by Groupon (or $25) + $1 entry to cemetery; 28 persons per tour) that I took in New Orleans in October!

The tour lasted over 2 hours, but with our experienced and exciting Tour Guide, ‘Stormy’, it was worth it. It provides you with a chance to enter one of the world-renown cemeteries, St. Louis Cemetery #1 in New Orleans, while also visiting popular landmarks in the French Quarter. A bit of Voodoo culture and history was also included, as this adventure combined 3 tours in 1.

The French Quarter/Cemetery/Voodoo tour meets at the corner of Royal and Conti Street. Persons are to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time to check in.

You can learn how and why people are buried above ground and how the “Vault” works! The grave of the famous Queen of Voodoo, Marie Laveau is also there.

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Inside of St. Louis Cemetery #1, New Orleans

I saw a lot of negative reviews of persons spending most of the time in the cemetery and it being too crowded. I would note that the key is to leave on an early tour and request Stormy.

Upon arrival, we were one of probably 3 other tour groups in the cemetery. Stormy was very considerate of other groups’ space, so we would stop and talk before a group left a particular landmark. I can’t say the same about other tour guides though. Close to the end of our Cemetery tour, many tour groups arrived and interrupted our stops or paths, but thankfully we didn’t have much time left in there.

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The Louis Armstrong Park

As the tour moved to the Louis Armstrong Park, we could see more and more that Tour guide, Stormy was experienced, passionate, knowledgeable and talented. He even sang for us where the Congo tribes would sing and dance in different groups in an area called Congo Square. This historical landmark is the foundation of New Orleans’ Musical traditions, including Jazz.

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The tour went over the 2 hours, but Stormy didn’t give any place more attention than the other. Everywhere was explained in full detail in a captivating way and he was able to answer all of our questions. Two thumbs up! #SugaEndorsed

To book your 3-in-1 Cemetery, Voodoo and French Quarter Tour (New Orleans  LA), go to:

https://www.tripshock.com/3-in-1-Cemetery,-Voodoo-&-French-Quarter-Tour/details/1452/

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Tour Guide, Stormy with his Jamaican girls, (L-R) Gabrielle Burgess, Songe Sandcroft, Glennette Sinclair, Anya Pennycooke, Stephaney Farquharson, Racquell Brown and Taraja Richards after a fantastic 3-in-1 Cemetery, Voodoo and French Quarter Tour.

If you think you will never get to visit New Orleans or you don’t mind a few spoilers, here you go!

● Why are tombs in the New Orleans’ Cemeteries called Vaults?

They house thousands of persons. Once all the remains of someone have decomposed leaving the bones, the bones are collected, put in a bag and labeled. They are placed in the same tomb in an underground section or section below the tomb, called a vault.

● Nicolas Cage and Brad Pitt in New Orleans

Nicolas Cage fell in love with New Orleans when he visited. He bought properties there including a Haunted House that he ended up having to resell, losing a lot of money. A story was told that Brad Pitt ran out of that alleged ‘Haunted House’ and had to arrange for his belongings to be sent to him.

● Tomb Space in the St. Louis Cemetery #1

Though limited and extremely expensive, you can purchase your tomb space and place a tomb in the renowned St. Louis Cemetery where you wish to be laid to rest.

● Nicolas Cage (still alive) has his Tomb in the St. Louis Cemetery

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Nicolas Cage’s tomb for him to be laid to rest when he dies.

● You can make a wish by Marie Laveau’s tomb

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Queen of Voodoo, Marie Laveau’s tomb

It is believed that if you knock on Marie Laveau’s tomb to wake up her spirit, then make a wish and mark three x-s on her tomb, that your wish will come true. She was especially known for granting love wishes. If you have the chance to revisit her tomb, you are to out a circle around those x-s to show that your wish has come true.

Note that persons are discouraged from marking any of the tombs. A woman was locked up in jail for painting Marie Laveau’s tomb pink. The tomb was white so if painted over, the paint would bleed through. They had some costly reconstructing to do.

● Persons currently reside at Marie Laveau’s home

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Tour Guide, Stormy showing us Marie Laveau’s home.

● Why was Marie Laveau called the Queen of Voodoo?

It was believed Marie Laveau knew everything about everybody, that she could be in more than one place at a time and that she could make things happen to people. For instance, she would know a husband was cheating on his wife before the wife knew, then notify her. However, this was because she was a hairdresser by profession, so knew everyone’s business.

She had two daughters that looked and dressed just like her, who she also taught to tie their head wrap, called a tignon, just like her. Tignon is the French New Orleans version of African head wrap. Nobody else in New Orleans wrapped their head in that style. So when all three were seen in different places at the same time, it was believed she could be in three places at once.

In terms of voodoo, if a man was harassing a woman and the woman went to Marie about it, Marie would approach the man with a warning to leave the woman alone. Since she had the reputation of being the Queen of Voodoo, the man would instantly leave the woman alone and perhaps look the other way if he saw the woman ever again. She would be paid for these requests and this is how she gained wealth.

● Pioneer of Jazz, Louis Armstrong used to dig through garbage to provide food for his family.

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Louis Armstrong’s statue in Louis Armstrong Park

● The late legendary soul singer, Aretha Franklin was inspired by Mahalia Jackson, who was the 1st black woman to start singing in the church. A performing Arts Theatre is now in Mahalia Jackson’s name.

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Article, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

 

 

Did the NEW Chive Restaurant make a good first impression?

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Suga’s Ratings for Chive Restaurant

Date and time of visit: Wednesday, November 13, 2018 at 8:00pm

No. of diners: 3 adults

NB. Ratings fill 5 stars maximum

Parking: ★★★★☆

Ambience: ★★★★☆

Décor: ★★★★☆

Comfort: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★★☆

Speed: ★★★★☆

Food quality: ★★★★★

Serving amount: ★★★★☆

Plating: ★★★★☆

Value for $: ★★★★★

Suga’s Breakdown:

Jamaicans love a new restaurant that looks modern and is easy to get to and that explains why Chive Restaurant is booked out for Restaurant Week (RW). Chive is in the Savoury Category for $2800JMD, where G.C.T and Beverages are at an additional cost.

They definitely took the huge risk to open and participate in Restaurant Week to make a first impression on the public. But bravo! They did well.

The staff was polite, attentive and quite composed for the occasion.

The Restaurant is small, but comfortable with modern décor that was tastefully put together.

The menu for Restaurant Week offered a good variety of options including Vegetarian, Seafood, Beef, Chicken and Pork dishes. Food came out in a reasonable amount of time and servings were sufficient. The taste of everything was on point and Chive was definitely value for money. Two thumbs up for Restaurant Week!

Appetizers

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Crispy Glazed Pork Belly stuffed in a steamed bao bun with Hoisin sauce, ginger and pickled cucumbers.

Firstly, the RW menu said Pork Buns and not Pork Bun. However, we threw that critique out the window after we indulged in a healthy serving of succulent, well seasoned Pork Belly with a crisp that met you upon each bite.

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Plump grape tomatoes, grilled garlic lobster and basil drizzled with a honey balsamic reduction on toasted baguette slices.

For the Grilled Lobster Bruschetta, we were wondering if we would get mostly tomatoes, but that was not the case. The Bruschettas were toasted just right and filled with Grilled Lobster. Delightful. Hopefully they can keep up this standard.

Main

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Oxtail Alfredo – Traditional ‘fall off the bone’ Oxtail combined with penne pasta tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce.

I must admit that I was not in the mood to be disappointed with another Oxtail Pasta that didn’t really have Oxtail in it. So when ordering, I requested that I do not get ‘the essence’ of the Oxtail and I get my Pasta loaded with tender Oxtail. I can’t guarantee the same for you, but ask and you shall receive!

The Oxtail was tender, well seasoned and tasty. It was not overpowered by a heavy, creamy alfredo sauce. The taste and consistency of the sauce was just right to complement the Oxtail.

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Beef Bourguignon – Tender chunks of Beef simmered in a rich red wine gravy served atop garlic, rosemary mashed potatoes and country roasted vegetables.

The Oxtail Pasta was impressive, but we thought the Beef Bourguignon was the winner of the night. The serving could have been bigger, but the flavour was outstanding. The Beef was well seasoned and enhanced by the red wine gravy that was rich indeed with a citrus flavour. #SugaSnaps.

Dessert

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Warm Bread Pudding with Buttery Rum Sauce.

I was told when ordering that there was no Vanilla Bean Ice Cream to accompany the Bread Pudding as stated. This disturbed me since Sovereign supermarket is across the road and so is Devon House Ice Cream.

Nanda Dukharan, one of the owners who checked on our table from time to time to gather feedback and ensure everything was going smoothly, actually makes ice cream. When that was explained to us, I understood that they wished to keep the authenticity of their Ice Cream once they iron out a few kinks. So you cannot expect the Pineapple Ginger Ice Cream with Scotch Bonnet Brittle either, which was also on the menu.

I then thought my serving of Bread Pudding should have been larger to compensate. Thankfully it was warm and savoury.

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Decadent Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake.

The Cheesecake was definitely decadent and a great finale for our dinner.

Chive Restaurant still has a full dining and bar menu to finalize post Restaurant Week, so they are definitely on Suga’s radar. For now, Chive Restaurant is #SugaEndorsed.

I hope they keep it up because I am looking forward to a new spot to eat and drink for the holiday season! Aren’t you?

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(L-R) Friends and Foodies, Jehan Knight, Randy Burgess and wife, Gabrielle a.k.a Suga feeling quite content after a fulfilling RW dinner at the new Chive Restaurant.

Chive Restaurant

Location: Shop 15, Orchid Village Plaza. 20 Barbican Road. Kingston 6.

Ph: 876-820-1194

Instagram: @chivejamaica

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

 

GW Art at Immaculate’s Art Exhibition this week!

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Come out this Sunday from 2pm – 4pm at the Convent of Immaculate Conception High to see budding and experienced talent at the same time. Past and present students of Immaculate High will be showcasing their works of Art.

GW Art will be there. Come and meet me! Part proceeds of sales go towards the renovations of the school’s art studios.

The exhibition runs from this Thursday, November 15th to next Tuesday, November 20th from 10am to 6pm at St. Francis Hall by the Convent on the grounds of Immaculate Conception High School.

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‘Dance Tempo’ is still Available!

GW Art

Email: [email protected]

Ph: 876-422-3769

Website (Gallery): 

http://www.sugalifestyle.com 

Instagram: @gwartbygabby

Facebook: Suga Lifestyle (GW Art Album)

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Artist)

If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

St. Andrew Rotary makes new addition to Curlin Johnson Basic School

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The St. Andrew Rotary Club donated two white boards to a classroom at Curlin Johnson Basic School at 1 Saunders Avenue, Kingston about two weeks ago. They were well received.

However small, projects like these have a huge impact on the recipients and these projects inspire others to make an impact and change as well.

Kudos to the St. Andrew Rotary Club for their charitable services. Our Children are our Future.

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Feature, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

Who will be at Suga Lifestyle’s Christmas Connection?!

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Happy Sunday! The complete list is out with Suga’s selected artisans! SAVE THE DATE and follow @sugalifestyle on Instagram and Facebook for a chance to win upcoming giveaways!

This is not a trade show to miss!

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

Suga’s recommendations for Restaurant Week!

Many of you may be seasoned Restaurant Week (RW) attendees by now. Since Suga is in the same boat, I have selected restaurants whose menus have stood out and are different from what they usually have for RW. They also have a reputation for good service, good quality food and value for money.

For those who still have a lot to experience with Restaurant Week, take a gamble if you do not see your choice on my list. You never know, you may end up with a winner for dinner.

Let’s get to it!

***The Price of each category includes a choice of appetizer, main course and dessert. Beverages, G.C.T and gratuity additional***

EPICUREAN ($4300JMD***)

Fromage Brasserie in Kingston! Best menu on the Epicurean list.

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Fromage Brasserie’s Signature Dish of Lobster, Shrimp & scallop tossed in white wine mornay sauce & stuffed in lobster tails.

DELECTABLE ($3800JMD***)

Nirvanna Indian Restaurant in Kingston! Best Ethnic Restaurant in Kingston. Great choice for an authentic, Indian feast.

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Flingback Friday to Suga and husband, Randy Burgess’s dinner at Nirvanna Indian Cuisine

SAVOURY ($2800JMD***)

KINGSTON

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• Chive Eatery in Village Plaza, Kingston – New kids on the block with a killer menu of Pork buns, Oxtail Alfredo, their Signature dish of Crispy, glazed Pork Belly stuffed in a steamed bao bun with hoisin sauce, ginger and pickled cucumbers and more! They may be the dark horse of RW!

• Jamaica Liquor Warehouse in Kingston – One of my favourites. I would eat anything on their menu. Great variety, taste, good service and value for money.

• Tamarind Indian Cuisine in Kingston – Never usually disappoints. Savoury, authentic Indian food with good service.

MONTEGO BAY

• Pelican Grill has served well for many years. I would go with them if choosing this category in the second city.

I would also take a gamble with:

• Bubble & Spice, Coral Cliff

• Pier 1

• Uncorked West

OCHO RIOS

• Anglers – A family pleaser with a mouth-watering seafood menu.

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Fling Back Friday to my Steamaz from Anglers!

• Evita’s Italian Restaurant – They practically have the same menu each year, but it is so extensive that you can keep trying new savoury dishes in a delightful ambience with good service.

• Seaside Dutchie – Great seafood by the sea with unique presentation. This visit could be a fun family day or evening out. Their seafood is usually served in reasonable time compared to others.

TASTY ($1850JMD***)

• Sharkies Bar Grill & Tours in Runaway Bay – You may run the risk of a long wait, but it’s usually worth it. Great seafood by the sea.

• Smoked Marin Restaurant in Hanover – Delicious food by the sea with big portions. Their Signature Jerked Calamari dish looks interesting.

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Smoked Marlin’s Jerked calamari with brown butter remoulade and glazed carrots.

NYAM & SCRAM (30% off/Discounted Lunch Specials)

•  Devon House Bakery for sweeting up the palate after a reduced size main.

• Fish Pot for serving up value for money for the people. They have a healthy salmon dish and a creamy coconut lobster pasta!

• Kushites Vegetable Cuisine -Take advantage of their deals! Best vegetarian restaurant in Jamaica.

● Super’s Spicy Doubles – I’ve never been, but I would take a gamble with those curry dish deals for $600JMD or less.

MORNING BITES (Discounted Breakfast Specials)

Mr. Breakfast looks like a deal!

Reservations are recommended for all categories except for Nyam and Scram and Morning Bites. I suggest you still call ahead or just before you make your way for the restaurants that aren’t fast food ones in the Nyam and Scram category.

Check out Restaurant Week’s Website,  http://go-jamaica.com/rw/ to see full menus and to find contact information and locations for the Restaurants.

Enjoy!

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

Suga’s choices for Restaurant Week…

Suga’s choices for Restaurant Week will be out tomorrow! You already know were to book for Epicurean, stay tuned!

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Throwback to last Sunday when Suga scoped out what a few Restaurants had to offer at the Restaurant Week Launch at Devon House.

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

GW Art adds Colour to the Walls of a New Home!

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GW Art’s ‘Island Set’ Acrylic on Canvas Painting, adding colour to the walls of a new home.
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GW Art’s ‘Island Set’ Acrylic on (16*20)” Oval Canvas up close, which was replicated from the original that premiered and sold at the GW Art show on September 26, 2018 at the Reggae Mill Bar, Devon House 

Get GW Art in your space today! #BuyLocal

For the Holiday season GW Art will be at Conu’co Market in Ocho Rios on Sunday, December 2nd and at Suga Lifestyle’s Christmas Connection on Saturday, December 15th at The Liguanea Club, New Kingston!

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GW Art

Email: [email protected]

Ph: 876-422-3769

Website (Gallery):

http://www.sugalifestyle.com

Instagram: @gwartbygabby

Facebook: Suga Lifestyle

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Artist)

If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.