Caribbean News
Talented Local Saxophonist, Jervon Laporte, Plays His Way into the Heart of the Suriano Family
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands, October 25 – The venue was setand everything was in place to create a memorable 50thanniversary vow renewal ceremony for Frank and Kathie Suriano at the alluring Beaches Turks and Caicos.
A stunning gazebo, white sand between the toes and the sound of waves lapping the north shore formed the perfect backdrop for the high school sweethearts who reminisced on their first date at the beach.
Kathie recounts, “we wrote our own vows for the ceremony. The Beaches Turks and Caicos wedding department team were our guests. They warmly embraced us as family – our Beaches family. During our vow exchange, we noticed our guests wiping away tears as they listened to our history and expressions of enduring love.” As Jervon Laporte, a locally contracted entertainer who played his saxophone during the reception, the couple slow danced, welcoming their resort friends to join in and enjoy the moment. “The ladies from the wedding team were all eager to have a dance with Frank. My handsome, blue–eyed, white haired, seventy year old groom was in demand.”
At the end of his set, Jervon, who had heard Kathie and Frank share that their first dance was to Diana Ross’ and Lionel Richie’s version of “Endless Love”, went over to the couple and asked if he could have the honour of playing it for them. This unexpected gesture created a truly magical moment for Frank and Kathie, “after 50 years of marriage, we fell more deeply in love. You could see it in our eyes,” the couple reminisced.
Jervon saw a window of opportunity to wow the Soriano’s and what he delivered exceeded their wildest expectations. He made such an impression on the couple that they shared their experience with General Manager of Beaches Turks and Caicos, James McAnally.
“It is in Jervon’s character to go beyond the call of duty. He is passionate about what he does, and it is very evident in the way he performs. He is able to make each guest feel special because this is not work for him. This is what he loves,”McAnally shared.
An Appreciation Gift
So impressed was the couple with Jervon, that they partnered with McAnally to surprise him with a refurbished 1940 Martin Handcraft Tenor Saxophone. The vintage saxophone was purchased at a garage sale for US$50.00 in 1993 by Kathie and is now worth US$4500.00. The saxophone case houses original items including a guarantee certificate with serial number, owner’s booklet with parts list and music books with accessories.
During the handover surprise event hosted on resort, the Soriano’s expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Jervon via video call. “We are certain you will use your saxophone to bring so much joy and romance to many other couples. This is your life’s purpose, your legacy,” they shared.
Jervon expressed how grateful he was for the recognition while admitting that he did not expect anything in return. “This entire event has caught me by surprise,” he shared, “the Soriano’s are a wonderful couple and I am happy I had the privilege of making their 50th anniversary celebration a memorable one.”
Prior to the saxophone being gifted, Kathie, who was an educator for over thirty years, loaned it to the William Frangus Elementary School library and Home of the JAZZ, in Orlando, Florida.
As an educator, Kathie did not miss the teachable moment. “I always told my students that true success is not measured by the amount of money or education. Success is about becoming a good person and making a positive difference in the world. Jervon is a good person, a true success.”
Caribbean News
Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts celebrate a night of wins, and take home a total of 16 titles at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (October 6th, 2025) – CaribCon, the Caribbean conference celebrating culture, innovation, and creativity, will welcome some of the region’s most influential voices to its inaugural edition in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The event, set to be a dynamic gathering of thought leaders and cultural icons, will feature impactful panel discussions, inspiring and intimate fireside chats and a flow of knowledge from some of the Caribbean’s brightest and best in the creative sector.
Elizabeth “Lady” Montano
Jamaica’s own Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson, celebrated communications specialist, media personality, and global keynote speaker, will headline CaribCon as the official keynote speaker. Known for her ability to connect authentically and inspire audiences worldwide, Dr. Reid will share her insights on Caribbean identity, storytelling, and the power of representation in shaping global narratives. Another highlight of CaribCon will be the presence of Elizabeth “Lady” Montano, mother and former manager of soca superstar Machel Montano. Lady will launch her award-winning book, King of Soca, in which she is positioned as the ultimate insider, chronicling the evolution of one of the Caribbean’s most iconic entertainers. She will also share her invaluable experiences on nurturing talent, building a brand, and sustaining longevity in the competitive music industry in an intimate fireside chat. Adding further star power to the event is Simon Baptiste, CEO of Question Mark Entertainment, co-founder of ODOS, a global collective network spanning over 1000 professionals in 35 countries, film director, talent manager and creative strategist. Baptiste will bring his expertise to conversations on shaping the region’s creative sector and talent.
Simon Baptiste
“CaribCon is where the Caribbean’s voices, ideas, and creativity converge,” says Omega Simmons, founder of CaribCon and CEO of SOS Media. “Having leaders like Terri Karelle, Lady Montano, and Simon Baptiste share their stories and expertise truly embodies the spirit of this event. Their presence reinforces the power of Caribbean culture to inspire and influence on the world stage.” CaribCon will take place at the Shore Club in Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Islands, from October 23rd to 26th. Attendees can look forward to networking opportunities, panel discussions, and meaningful dialogue to foster an ecosystem that develops the region’s creative sector and propels it onto the global stage.
Sponsors are:
Signature Experience Partners: Ministry of Tourism, Experience Turks and Caicos, and The Shore Club.
Other sponsors: PPID, Invest TCI, InterCaribbean Airways, Subtronic Sounds, Spotlight Communications.
Hotel partners: Ocean Club Resorts, Waterloo Hotel Management, The Somerset on Grace Bay and Ports of Call Resort.
For more information, tickets, and updates, visit www.caribcon.co or follow @caribconhq on all social media platforms.
For more information please email: contact@caribcon.co
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