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N E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N E

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The Sound, The Color, The Frenzy . . .The Sound, The Color, The Frenzy . . .The Sound, The Color, The Frenzy . . .The Sound, The Color, The Frenzy . . .The Sound, The Color, The Frenzy . . .CaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanAirlines set toAirlines set toAirlines set toAirlines set toAirlines set tooperate fromoperate fromoperate fromoperate fromoperate fromOrlando thisOrlando thisOrlando thisOrlando thisOrlando this

summer!summer!summer!summer!summer!

TTTTT his summer, Carib-bean Airlines will beoperating a special

service from a thirdFlorida destination. In ad-dition to Ft. Lauderdaleand Miami, customers canbook flights for themonths of July and Augustto get to the Caribbean viaMCO International Airportin Orlando, Florida.

The Caribbean Airlinessummer service from Or-lando, Florida will operatetwice weekly (Tuesdays andFridays) from Orlando’sMCO International Airportfor the months of July andAugust. In addition to thisdirect service, passengershave the option of purchas-ing all-inclusive packagesto customize their ownDisney vacation on the Car-ibbean Airlines website(www. caribbean-air lines.com). “We are excitedabout presenting our cus-tomers with yet anotheroption when they are plan-ning for that very specialfamily vacation,” statedLaura Asbjornsen, Carib-bean Airlines Head of Cor-porate Communications.“Caribbean holiday mak-ers can now connect toPiarco International Air-port from the other Carib-bean islands we service,and get directly to Orlando.In addition to the wellknown Orlando attrac-tions such as Walt DisneyWorld, shopping trips are

Carnival!— Continued on page 22 —

arnival is Coming Memorial Weekend, May 29 2011 at Festival Park.

Win a Trip to the Caribbean on Caribbean Airlines go to www.facebook.comorlandocarnival for contest information.c

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GGR Marketing & Public Relations1969 Alafaya Trail, Suite 133 • Orlando, Fl 32828

407.421.8118 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com

Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-RobertsEditor .............................................................................Audrey JohnsonContributing Writers: ................................................. Natasha Gittens. .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell................................... ........................................................ Gail Seeram................... ............................................... Natasha Waldron-Anthony

Contributing Photographers .......................................... Sandra Fatmi................................................................................................ Khayyam............................................... ........................................... Sandy Isaacs

Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations All rights reserved.

L I F E S T Y L E Guenet Gittens-Roberts,

Publisher/Editor

Hello Caribbean Family, Wel-come to the special all roadslead to Carnival issue of CAP

News Magazine, We’re proud to letyou know that during this month andnext month we will be producing twospecial issues - back to back, first theCarnival issue and then the HeritageMonth issue. Both issues will be10,000 copies and we’re hoping tohave an all color issue for CaribbeanAmerican Heritage Month. We en-courage you to visit our facebook page- www.facebook.com/capnews maga-zine - so that you are kept up to datewith the events in the communityand you could add event photos forus to showcase.

Caribbean American Passport will beeverywhere over the next 45 days,starting with the Media Launch ofCarnival this Thursday as we getready for Carnival begin in two weekson Memorial Weekend Sunday. Jumpinto Carnival, show your colors andget your flags waving as we prepareto showcase our Culture throughoutthe month of June. Orlando Carni-val will provide a fantastic Kick offinto the Celebrations for CaribbeanAmerican Heritage Month as Carib-bean friends and family take to thestreets of Orlando. I, of course lovethe food at all the festivals so for me itwill be an opportunity to eat bake andsalt fish, drink coconut water, eatfudge, green mango with salt and pep-per and drink fresh cane juice to coolmy mouth down. At the Curry DuckCurry Competition I did that in 1 hour.Shameful yes, but oh so good!

On June 4th, we’ll be celebrating the Launch of CaribbeanAmerican Heritage Month with an Opening Reception atCirca Restaurant in Winter Park. We plan to toast the Spon-sors and Associations who took up the mantle to work tocreate a Caribbean American Heritage Month that you canbe proud to attend. I spent my birthday at Circa this yearand was treated like a Queen, my daughter asked me “whowants to be a Queen these days when the Monarchy is onlysymbolic,” she said that she’d rather be treated like a PrimeMinister and have some power - symbolic or not I’ll take myroyal treatment any time, so I’ll be there on June 4th andevery birthday hereafter.

Caribbean people, the month of June is yours, we have a list ofactivities that will suit almost everyone, please get involved insome way - whether it’s as a volunteer or visitor, the peoplewho work hard to keep your culture alive here need your sup-port and encouragement. Share their events with others, takeyour family and friends out and introduce them to the Carib-bean Restaurants in your area. I’d like to leave you with mypersonal motto “ One Caribbean, we’re only divided by wa-ter.” We’re a crazy mixture of races, cultures and religions butwe combine to make a fantastic, interesting beautiful Carib-bean Culture. Be proud.

The Caribbean American Heritage MonthThe Caribbean American Heritage MonthThe Caribbean American Heritage MonthThe Caribbean American Heritage MonthThe Caribbean American Heritage MonthCommittee invites you to our Caribbean ReceptionCommittee invites you to our Caribbean ReceptionCommittee invites you to our Caribbean ReceptionCommittee invites you to our Caribbean ReceptionCommittee invites you to our Caribbean Reception

in Honor of the Associations, Sponsors &in Honor of the Associations, Sponsors &in Honor of the Associations, Sponsors &in Honor of the Associations, Sponsors &in Honor of the Associations, Sponsors &Supporters of Caribbean American HeritageSupporters of Caribbean American HeritageSupporters of Caribbean American HeritageSupporters of Caribbean American HeritageSupporters of Caribbean American Heritage

Month Activities in Central FloridaMonth Activities in Central FloridaMonth Activities in Central FloridaMonth Activities in Central FloridaMonth Activities in Central FloridaSaturday June 4th, 2011, 3pmSaturday June 4th, 2011, 3pmSaturday June 4th, 2011, 3pmSaturday June 4th, 2011, 3pmSaturday June 4th, 2011, 3pm

at the Circa Restaurantat the Circa Restaurantat the Circa Restaurantat the Circa Restaurantat the Circa Restaurant

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F ifty-five year old JanetBryant, a Jamaican na-tional, has been associated

with the Valencia CommunityCollege system for several years,obtaining her Associates Degreein 2004. While at Valencia, Ms.Bryant received many academicrecognition, including a place onthe President’s list, the NationalDeans list, and Who’s Who ofCollege Students in AmericanJunior Colleges.

A woman of great faith, purposeand an innate passion for learn-ing, Ms. Bryant continued her as-sociation with the college as amentor and motivator for stu-dents, especially African Ameri-cans in the Bridges to Success Pro-gram (BTS). This program en-courages and nurtures academicexcellence in African Americanstudents. This year, the college,along with the BTS students, cel-ebrated the fourth annual Afri-can American Heritage and SoulFood Festival as part of Black His-tory Month in February. And, in honor of her dedication andcommitment to the progress and high achievement of Afri-can American students, the Festival was named Janet Bryant

African American Heritage andSoul Food Festival.

Janet Bryant is a consummate vol-unteer, and over the years, hasworked in various capacities lo-cally, nationally as well as inter-nationally. She has conducted af-ter-school reading programs at theLila Mitchell Community Centerand the Boys and Girls Club, andalso visited the La Curcurita areaof Dominican Republic to teachEnglish to lower income families.As an unofficial goodwill ambas-sador on behalf of the college, Ms.Bryant has also taken part in hon-ors trips to various parts of theUnited States as well as to Braziland Argentina.

Although Ms. Bryant has beenaway from her native Jamaica forover thirty-two years, she still vis-its regularly and takes part in adultliteracy programs in conjunctionwith the Anglican Church in sev-eral rural communities.

Ms. Bryant attributes her dedication to her belief that “everyday of her life is significant”, and she gets strength from herfirm faith and her desire to empower others.

Janet BryantJanet BryantJanet BryantJanet BryantJanet BryantValencia College’s Unofficial AmbassadorValencia College’s Unofficial AmbassadorValencia College’s Unofficial AmbassadorValencia College’s Unofficial AmbassadorValencia College’s Unofficial Ambassador

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Lester Sterling -One of the Original

Skatalytes in Orlando

CACCF Members at the Indian AmericanChamber of Commerce Expo 2011

Ralph Seeram pictured at India Fest

CAFA Jazz Luncheonrecently held at the

Rotary Club

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National TeenNational TeenNational TeenNational TeenNational TeenPregnancyPregnancyPregnancyPregnancyPregnancy

Awareness MonthAwareness MonthAwareness MonthAwareness MonthAwareness MonthMay is National Teen Pregnancy Awareness Month.

The Caribbean Community Connec-tion of Orlando, Inc brings awareness

to this serious social issue each year by holdingtheir Annual Teen Pregnancy Awareness Semi-nar via their Teen Dream Program. The TeenDream Program consists of professional and so-cial activists that support a proactive and pre-vention model for teens and parents headon. This event is free to teens and their par-ents and will be held on May 22, 2011 atthe First Haitian Baptist Church located at4701 Lenox Blvd, Orlando, Fl from 5pm-7pm. Register via e-mail at ky_lilly@hotmail.com or caribecc.org.

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Premium content from Orlando Business JournalBy Richard Bilbao, Staff Writer

Veronica Anderson, owner of Orlando-basedlaw firm Anderson & Associates PA, works

hard to help the local business community.

Her four-employee firm, which she started in2000, focuses on real estate, business, govern-ment, estate planning and bankruptcy law. Shegot her law degree from the University of Mis-sissippi and a bachelor’s in criminology fromFlorida State University.

As for why she formed her own firm: “I alwayswas excited and awed by women who startedbusinesses. I wondered what brave ‘stuff’ theywere made of. I enjoyed helping them maneu-ver through government as they tried to get equal opportuni-ties. Then one day, I found the courage to chart my own courseand set my own goals.”

Fifty-one-year-old Anderson, Or-lando Business Journal’s 2011Business Owner of the Year, hasserved or participated in groupssuch as the Black Business Invest-ment Fund in Orlando, the Florida Black Business InvestmentBoard, the African American Chamber of Commerce and theFlorida Association of Minority Business Enterprise Officials.

“I admire Veronica’s professional accomplishments and com-mitment to making a significant positive impact on the com-munity,” said Nancy Schwalb of Schwalb Public Relations, aclose friend to Anderson.

Anderson’s involvement with local government groups suchas Orange County, the Orlando-Orange County ExpresswayAuthority and the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority allhelped create a better understanding of how to develop small,minority and women-owned businesses, said Schwalb.

In fact, Anderson’s community involvement can be seen everytime Orlandoans go to the city’s new $380 million arena to watchthe Orlando Magic’s Dwight Howard get a rebound or JameerNelson shoot a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer. Ander-son helped create The Blueprint, the city of Orlando’s guide thatdefined how minority, women-owned and historically disadvan-taged businesses could be involved in the construction of the

new Amway Center, which opened last October.

The Amway Center provided more than $90million in contracts to local businesses, includ-ing 67 African-American-owned businesses, 52women-owned companies, 36 Hispanic-ownedfirms, 20 Asian-American-owned businessesand two Native American firms.

The guide also defined how the communityvenues projects - which include the AmwayCenter, the future Dr. Phillips Center for thePerforming Arts and planned Citrus Bowl reno-vations - would generate the most economicimpact, jobs and development for the surround-ing community, including the historically blackParramore neighborhood.

When early versions of The Blueprint were being drafted,“Veronica was the person we planned to hire to write it all be-

cause she had the vision,” saidOrlando Commissioner DaisyLynum, who also was involved inthe creation of The Blueprint.

Lynum said Anderson’s part inThe Blueprint was vital in its

success in involving a large number of minority firms withthe new arena.

Further, Lynum said she’d always want Anderson in her cor-ner. “She’s a person you want to make sure is out there for you,helping to spread the importance of the participation of mi-nority and ethic groups in any project.”

2011 Women Who Mean Business2011 Women Who Mean Business2011 Women Who Mean Business2011 Women Who Mean Business2011 Women Who Mean Business

Veronica Anderson

Veronica Anderson named 2011 Business Owner of the YearVeronica Anderson named 2011 Business Owner of the YearVeronica Anderson named 2011 Business Owner of the YearVeronica Anderson named 2011 Business Owner of the YearVeronica Anderson named 2011 Business Owner of the Year

The Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce, in association withJAMPRO-Trade and Investment, Jamaica, presents the 6th an-nual Business Expo from May 20 -21 at the Sheraton Hotel inDania Beach, Florida.

Among those attending are Inbound Business Exhibitorsfrom Jamaica, International Buyers, Local Entrepreneurs,Public Officials, Major US Food, Pharmacy and FurnitureRetailers, Distributors of Jamaican artwork, InternationalDistributors of Jamaican and Caribbean products, poten-tial investors and partners, chamber members, families,friends and guests.

The keynote speaker at the featured luncheon will be the Chair-man of the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) Mr.Joe Matalon. The special attractions planned for the eventwill be a fashion show by Break Away Moments’ Forever Para-dise line, Jamaican food and beverage tasting, samples, rafflesand much more.

The event is being conducted under the distinguished patron-age of the Consulate General for Southern United States.

All information and further details regarding this Expo maybe obtained from the website: www.jamaicausachamber.org.

Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Business ExpoJamaica USA Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Business ExpoJamaica USA Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Business ExpoJamaica USA Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Business ExpoJamaica USA Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Business Expo

“. . . I found the courage to chart myown course and set my own goals.”

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Caribbean Airlines set toCaribbean Airlines set toCaribbean Airlines set toCaribbean Airlines set toCaribbean Airlines set tooperate from Orlandooperate from Orlandooperate from Orlandooperate from Orlandooperate from Orlando

this summer!this summer!this summer!this summer!this summer!— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —

becoming more and more common. It’s more affordable thanever to make a quick weekend trip in Ft. Lauderdale or Miamior to take advantage of our convenient schedule and spend acouple more days in Orlando,” explained the Corporate Com-munications Head.

Known for its all-inclusive product, Caribbean Airlines contin-ues to offer a generous luggage policy of two bags at 50 lbs forits economy passengers with meals and in-flight entertainmenton North American flights. “On a trip like this, families de-serve to have a very special experience from the minute theycheck in until they land. No one wants surprises at the check-in counter and the airline of the Caribbean - Caribbean Air-lines - is well known for its on-time-performance and exceed-ingly good value for money,” noted Asbjornsen.

While Orlando is well known as the home of Walt Disney World,the city boasts of excellent outlet shopping centres which areopen long hours, seven days a week. Airfares to Orlando areavailable for sale on www.caribbean-airlines.com or at thenearest travel agent. Customers can follow the Caribbean Air-lines Orlando campaign on Twitter at www.twitter.com/cal2007and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/caribbeanairlines

To the General Guyanese PublicTo the General Guyanese PublicTo the General Guyanese PublicTo the General Guyanese PublicTo the General Guyanese Publicand Our Supporters:and Our Supporters:and Our Supporters:and Our Supporters:and Our Supporters:

Please be advised that thePlease be advised that thePlease be advised that thePlease be advised that thePlease be advised that theGuyanese American CulturalGuyanese American CulturalGuyanese American CulturalGuyanese American CulturalGuyanese American Cultural

Association of Central FloridaAssociation of Central FloridaAssociation of Central FloridaAssociation of Central FloridaAssociation of Central Floridais not involved with the Family Funis not involved with the Family Funis not involved with the Family Funis not involved with the Family Funis not involved with the Family Fun

Day being held and is freeDay being held and is freeDay being held and is freeDay being held and is freeDay being held and is freefrom any liability whatsoever.from any liability whatsoever.from any liability whatsoever.from any liability whatsoever.from any liability whatsoever.

George LykingGeorge LykingGeorge LykingGeorge LykingGeorge LykingPresidentPresidentPresidentPresidentPresidentGACACFGACACFGACACFGACACFGACACF

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By Roger Caldwell

here are defining moments ineach president’s term of office.The death of Osama bin Laden

may become the most important in-cident that President Obama hasdone as the leader of America. Thissuccessful mission has given Ameri-cans the opportunity to be patrioticand believe in the president.

There will always be a debate on whathappened to the body and why was it buried at sea? There willalways be the non-believers who don’t believe that Osama binLaden was a real person, and news of his death was a fabricationof facts and information.

But for the millions of Americans who feel they have been vindi-cated by Bin Laden’s death are able to celebrate with other citizens.Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney called it “a greatvictory for lovers of freedom and justice everywhere, and praisedour intelligence community, and mili-tary, and the president.”

President Obama’s poll numbershave increased by 10%, and he isbeing congratulated by many of hisenemies. This is a great time for his presidency and he haschanged the national narrative into a positive discourse aboutour strengths as a nation. The president is now thought of as apowerful commander-in-chief, who is under control and canfulfill his promises.

In 2008 during the presidential campaign, Obama promised tobring the troops home from Iraq, and pledged to pursue Bin Ladenuntil he was caught. “We will kill Bin Laden. We will crush AlQaeda. That has to be our biggest national security priority,” saidObama in an October 2008 debate during the campaign.

The president’s track record has been based on transparency,integrity, and credibility, and with the killing of Bin Laden, it is

President Obama fulfills anotherPresident Obama fulfills anotherPresident Obama fulfills anotherPresident Obama fulfills anotherPresident Obama fulfills anotherpromise with the death of Bin Ladenpromise with the death of Bin Ladenpromise with the death of Bin Ladenpromise with the death of Bin Ladenpromise with the death of Bin Laden

hard not to trust the president. Even Al Qaeda has publiclyissued a statement that Bin Laden is dead. They have confirmedthe information from President Obama that he is dead.

President Obama could not have better timing with his an-nouncement on last Sunday. The president will benefit from anew wave of patriotic sentiment, as he begins to campaign forhis re-election for 2012. President Obama was able to accom-plish the mission of the death of Bin Laden in 2 1/2 years,when President Bush had tried to complete it, in 8 years, butwas unsuccessful.

Even Rush Limbaugh said, “Thank God for President Obama,”and he was always condemning everything the president pro-posed. Many in the opposition party, who are diehard Repub-licans are acknowledging a job well done. They are being forcedto concede that the president is not weak, and he has the abil-ity to protect American citizens.

As the entire country celebrates the death of Bin Laden, it isnecessary for our leaders to re-evaluate our foreign policy. Forthe past 10 years, our country spent $400 billion dollars to

track downand kill some-one, who atone time was afriend and ally.There is some

thing fundamentally wrong with our foreign policy when ourenemy is living in a country that claims to be our friend.

The killing of Bin Laden closes a chapter on the war of terror,but it does not end the insanity of global killing and war. Ourpresident was able to get the job done with 2 helicopters, 40navy seals, and great intelligence. But our president is spend-ing trillions of dollars around the world, and we are not surewho we are fighting.

Life at this moment is good in the White House, and manycitizens are proud to be Americans. But America needs a for-eign policy, where there is less violence and less of an over-useof military power.

T

ZoetryPoetry is a Non-for-profit organizationthat focuses on the youth in the Central FloridaCommunity. ZoetryPoetry provides our youth

with access to young adults that are willing to do ev-erything within their power to facilitate our youth withactive and creative minds. This means to encouragethe youth to tap into their own true talents. Our will tocontinue to flourish cannot happen without the com-munity support. Your generosity will keep us in busi-ness for our local communities, from minor donationsto being a sponsor. If you are interested or would likemore information please visit www.zoetrypoetry.org orvia email : zoetrypoetry@gmail.com

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This successful mission has given Americans theopportunity to be patriotic and believe in the president.

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Independence in the U.S. . . .Independence in the U.S. . . .Independence in the U.S. . . .Independence in the U.S. . . .Independence in the U.S. . . .Guyana the FreeGuyana the FreeGuyana the FreeGuyana the FreeGuyana the Free

Guyanese are encouraged to come out to show theircolors in the Orlando Carnival to celebrate both the45th Independence Anniversary and Orlando Carnival.

By Natasha Waldron-Anthony

The hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead on May 26th, 2011at Parliament Buildings in Georgetown Guyana marksthe celebration of Guyana’s 45th Independence Anniversary.

Throughout North America, Guyanese of all walks of life andcaliber observe this milestone in the form of fund-raiser events,fun-day activities, dance and cultural presentations.

In New York, the Guyana Day Committee, an organizationthat was established by Harry Bissoon, hosted an event titled“Celebrating Culture, Art & Unity” in observance of thecountry’s Independence celebrations.

The event replicated the diversity of the Guyanese culture, fus-ing Indian and African creativity through music, dance anddrama. Held on Sunday May 15, the extravaganza was wellattended, free of cost, at the York College Performing Arts Cen-ter in Jamaica, Queens.

During the event, Guyanese poet, actor and story-teller, KenCorsbie was the guest of honor and was presented with theTimehri award for his outstanding contribution to the mainte-nance of the nation’s cultural heritage through his craft. Theaward was presented byLeroy Comrie, CouncilMember and DeputyMajority Leader of theNew York City Council.

Performers who truly pro-vided patrons with a dynamic mix of Guyanese cultural flavorwere the Mighty Rebel, Romanee Kalicharran, the NYC Bhangraand Impressions and New Revelations Dance companies.

Meanwhile in Atlanta Georgia, the Guyana Association ofGeorgia has similar celebrations planned. The GAOG has gal-vanized a stage packed with energizing Guyanese artists, fea-turing the popular Jumo Primo of the Byron Lee and theDragonaires. The 45th Independence Ball celebrations alsocoincide with the association’s 20th anniversary. This is sched-uled for May 29 in Decatur Georgia.

In Maryland, the Reach Out & Touch Group will host a dinnerand dance to commemorate the 45 Independence AnniversaryCelebrations of Guyana on Saturday May 21 at the Camelot.Vice President of the organization, Avis Fox-Kapepula said thegroup’s mission is education oriented. “We are doing thisfundraiser so that we can receive funds because we would liketo supply text books to students, because we understand there

are lots of kids in the classrooms but they do not have textbooks,” she told Caribbean American Passport. Guyana’s Am-bassador to the United States, Bayney Karran will be the hon-ored guest and is scheduled to present a brief IndependenceDay message before the dance starts.

This is the second such event for the Reach Out & Touch orga-nization, and it is also geared at introducing the group to thecommunity since the group is celebrating its 2nd anniversarythis year. The president of the organization is Ingrid Robinson.

And here in the Sunshine State, Orlando, Florida, we are alsobringing Guyanese together to be part of 45 years since attain-ing Independence status. We here at the Caribbean AmericanPassport will be hosting a breakfast to celebrate in Orlando onMay 26th. Meanwhile, on Sunday May 29th, Guyanese areencouraged to come out to show their colors in the OrlandoCarnival to celebrate both the 45th Independence Anniversaryand Orlando Carnival.

Inviting the Guyanese to celebrate together with the widerCaribbean Community in Orlando is an effort by the Carnivalofficials to promote unity in the Caribbean Community.Guyanese, Guenet Roberts, said that she’s working on publicrelations for the Carnival with her personal theme of “One

Caribbean - we’re onlydivided by water, notculture” in mind.

Guyana became an in-dependent nation onThursday, 26 May 1966

when at midnight, the Union Jack, the symbol of British colo-nial rule for 163 years, was lowered and the new flag of Guyana,the Golden Arrowhead, was raised to the top of the mast.

On that momentous occasion, before a huge crowd, PrimeMinister Forbes Burnham and Opposition Leader Cheddi Jaganhad publicly embraced each other with satisfaction thatGuyana had finally won its political independence.

Burnham, in an appeal to Guyanese nationalism, had declaredon that day: “The days ahead are going to be difficult. Tomor-row, no doubt, we as Guyanese will indulge in the usual politi-cal conflicts and differences in ideology. But today, to my mind,is above such petty matters. For today Guyana is free.”

On achieving independence, Guyana became the 23rd mem-ber of the British Commonwealth.

Happy Independence!

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Carnival Media LaunchCarnival Media LaunchCarnival Media LaunchCarnival Media LaunchCarnival Media LaunchThe Orlando Cultural Association Committee, hosts of the 24th

Annual Orlando Carnival, will host an official media launchof Orlando’s Carnival 2011 on Thursday May 19th, 2011.

The organization is working alongside headline sponsors Car-ibbean Airlines, Spring Garden Restaurant, Caribbean Ameri-can Passport News Magazine, MMI Healthcare, Kalla’s Kitchen,Johnston Custom Trim and Supply and Singh’s Jewelry Worldto bring a splendid formal opening of the Carnival Celebra-tions where media and the business community will be en-lightened about the upcoming carnival season.

The launch will be addressed by officials, headline sponsorsand other associate sponsors, as well as the Orlando CulturalAssociation members.

Meet the band leaders and designers who will be showcasingtheir costumes this Memorial Weekend.

Attendees will also enjoy the sounds of Steel band from theOne Man Band and DJ’s taking turns throughout the eveningwith their favorite carnival music.

Join the Orlando Carnival Committee for a sneak peak ofwhat you can expect to see at Orlando Carnival on Sunday,May 29th, 2011. The launch officially starts the season ofOrlando Carnival.

WHEN: Thursday, May 19, 2011 from 6:00pm-10:00pm

RSVP: Guenet@ggrmarketing.com

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Know Your Rights Forum Offers Free LegalKnow Your Rights Forum Offers Free LegalKnow Your Rights Forum Offers Free LegalKnow Your Rights Forum Offers Free LegalKnow Your Rights Forum Offers Free LegalAdvice to the Caribbean CommunityAdvice to the Caribbean CommunityAdvice to the Caribbean CommunityAdvice to the Caribbean CommunityAdvice to the Caribbean Community

In April, the Orange County Sheriff Department’s Caribbean-American Advisory Committee hosted a free legal forumthat was attended by over two hundred residents of Or-

ange County.

The panelists of legal experts were comprised of Sheriff Jerry L.Demings, Hon. Judge Alicia L. Latimore, Immigration Attor-ney Gail Seeram, State Attorney Orley Burey, Criminal Attor-ney Richard Hornsby, Foreclosure Attorney Karla Valladares,Criminal Attorney Wayne Golding and Dr. Joyce H. Henry,ACLU Mid-Florida Region Director.

Various community organizations came together to promote theevent on local radio, television, newspaper, and within their orga-nizations. The forum was held at Eglise Christ Sanctifie church, alocal church in the Pine Hillsarea. According to Immi-gration Attorney GailSeeram, “I volunteered to co-ordinate this legal forum onbehalf of the Orange CountySheriff’s Department be-cause the ordinary citizen isunaware of their basic rightswhen dealing with the po-lice, the judicial system, andimmigration officials.”

What are your rights during a traffic stop?Sheriff Demings advised that a police officer canstop an individual who is walking, riding a bike ordriving a vehicle. He noted that when a policeofficer approaches your vehicle, it is recommendedto keep your hands visible to the police officer. Therecommendation was made to keep your handson the steering wheel. According to Criminal At-torney Richard Hornsby, the police officer can onlyask you for a valid driver’s license, proof of insur-ance and proof of registration. If an incident oc-curs where you feel your rights are violated, then Judge Alicia L.Latimore suggested that you not fight it out with the police of-ficer on the street but rather wait until you are in court before aJudge. Criminal Attorney Wayne Golding reminded the attend-ees that a police officer can charge you with resisting arrest with-out violence if you don’t cooperate or interfere with the policeofficer’s investigation during the traffic stop. State Attorney OrleyBurey stated that his office and the courts do not look favorablyon anyone who hits or pushes a police officer. In the situationwhere you are unsure if you are under arrest, you can simplyask the police officer, “Am I free to go?” According to State At-torney Orley Burey, if the police officer says “No”, then you mustremain until the police officer completes his investigation. Fur-ther, Sheriff Demings stated that there is a process available whereyou can file a complaint if you feel you were wrongly treated bya police officer. In response, Criminal Attorney Richard Hornsbysuggested to not file a complaint if you are pursuing a caseagainst the police officer because the complaint can be usedduring the court proceedings.

What are your rights in jail & court?In the situation where you are arrested, Dr. Joyce H. Henryreminded the attendees that you have the right to remain si-lent and do not have to answer any questions by the policeofficer. Once you exercise your right to an attorney by saying“I want to talk to my attorney”, then the police officer muststop asking you questions. If they continue to ask you ques-tions, you have the right to not answer any questions. Some-

one from the audience asked, “Can a police officer tell a lie tome to gain information?” Criminal Attorney Richard Hornsbyanswered the question and stated, “Yes, case law supports thatthe police officer can lie to you. This is why you should remainsilent until you have your attorney present.” According toSheriff Demings, you are allowed to make a phone call onceprocessing in the jail is complete. Judge Alicia L. Latimorementioned that a court hearing is scheduled between 24-48hours after your arrest. If you qualify, a public defender willbe assigned to your case.

What are your rights when dealing with Immigration?The audience inquired about an immigration hold. Immigra-tion Attorney Gail Seeram explained when you are booked intojail, your information is ran through an immigration database

and if you may face removal/deportation dueto a conviction or are unlawfully in the U.S.,then an immigration hold will be placed onyour release. Thereby, you cannot be bondedout or released on your own recognizance ifan immigration hold is placed on you. Ac-cording to Immigration Attorney Gail Seeram,once your state case is complete, then Immi-gration & Custom Enforcement (ICE) has 48

hours to take you into theircustody. The audience wasreminded that permanentresidents (or green cardholders) can be deportedfrom the U.S. for offensessuch as grand theft, domes-tic violence, robbery, pos-session of marijuana, andother criminal offenses.There are certain reliefsavailable and it is advisedto speak with an immigra-tion attorney about yourspecific case.

What are your rights when in foreclosure?Foreclosure Attorney Karla Valladares stated that in thiscountry’s history, we have never seen this amount of foreclo-sures that exist in the current market. She cautioned the audi-ence to be aware of service providers and attorneys that takelarge sums of money up-front or in monthly payments becauseforeclosure proceedings can last up to one year. Additionally,she stated that you do not have to leave your home until afinal order is filed. She reminded the audience that variousoptions such as loan modification short sales and foreclosureare available if your owe more than your home is valued.

Lastly, Dr. Joyce H. Henry stated that the American Civil Liber-ties Union (ACLU) offers assistance to felons who need help inrestoring their rights so they can vote, and regain basic rightsafforded by the constitution. She also provided a status on theFlorida Immigration Enforcement Act (S.B. 2040) which is be-ing fast-tracked through the Florida Senate and House. It isimportant to note that certain provisions in this bill wouldcriminalize living with or physically being present with anundocumented immigrant.

Attorney Gail Seeram plans to coordinate two more Know YourRights forum within the year. The Orange County SheriffDepartment’s Caribbean-American Advisory Committee thanksthose who participated and contributed to the success of thisfree legal forum.

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World remembers Bob MarleyWorld remembers Bob MarleyWorld remembers Bob MarleyWorld remembers Bob MarleyWorld remembers Bob Marley

Enjoying Orlando’s own replica of Bob Marley’s home at Universal CityWalk. On left, Andy & Urla King hanging out at Bob Marleys listening toCreig Comanche who performed with the band that night. Pictured abovewith Caribbean American Passport Publisher Guenet Roberts and friends.

New Site, New Look. Post your Events & your Business for Free on CaribbeanFinder.com

KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) - Scores of reggae fans fromacross the globe placed roses before a statue of BobMarley yesterday to mark the 30th anniversary of the

death of the musician, whose charismatic, loose-limbedstage presence and lyrics promoting “one love” tookthe Jamaican musical genre to an internationalaudience.

Tourists watched as three clerics fromthe Ethiopian Orthodox Church spreadincense and holy water around the BobMarley Museum, the singer’s formerhome in the capital of Kingston.Rastafarians who gathered around theproperty spoke in reverential tones about theicon of reggae music who died of cancer in1981 at age 36.

Yuya Furukawa, 29, came all the wayfrom Kumamoto, Japan, to pay homageto Marley, who preached non-material-ism and popularised the Rastafarian credo of oneness withnature and marijuana consumption as a sacrament.

“Bob Marley is like a god in Japan,” said Furukawa, holdinga burning marijuana cigarette as he gazed up at the flower-laden statue of Marley holding his favorite Gibson guitarand pointing a finger skyward.

The singer’s Ras-tafarian faith was a reason for the low-keyobservance. Rastafarians, who consider the late Ethiopian em-peror HaileSelassie the mes-siah, view deathsimply as a stepthat brings be-lievers closer toGod, or “Jah.”

“We’re trying toquietly and som-berly honourand recognisehis life on thisday,” said JackieLynch-Stewart,general mana-gerof the Bob MarleyFoundation.

Roger Steffens, aMarley historianand reggae archi-vist, said Marley’smusic remains alive 30 years after his death “because the situ-ations that Bob was singing about are exactly the same situa-tions we’re undergoing today.”

“He told us that if we stand up for ourselves we can bringabout change, that love conquers evil and that a divine sparkanimates us all,” Steffens said in an email. “Bob spoke to the

best in each of us and is an enduring symbol of rebellion foryouth everywhere.”

Marley’s anthems calling for love and unitystill resonate with many Jamaicans, evenif most younger islanders have long agomoved on to the brash reggae-rap hy-brid of dancehall reggae music.

“Bob is a person who is timeless. He isreal, and now everybody wants to fol-

low the crowd,” said Jamaican graffitiand dancehall artist LA Lewis, who showedup at the Kingston museum wearing aflawless white suit.

Born in 1945, Marley came of age in thegritty Trench Town community ofKingston and later shot to global star-dom with hits including ‘Get Up, StandUp’ and ‘No Woman, No Cry.’ His lyr-

ics promoting social justice and African unity made him anicon in developing countries.

His acceptance by mainstream America was sealed when theBudweiser frogs grooved to his song ‘Jamming’ in a 1999 beerad. His ‘One Love’ anthem woos tourists to Jamaica on TV spotsfeaturing white-sand beaches and swaying palms.

In his homeland, Marley’s legend was cemented in 1978 whenhe famously united warring political leaders Michael Manley

and Edward Seaga in a solidarity handshake during his OneLove Peace Concert in Kingston - a moment that has becomeimmortalized in Jamaican consciousness.

“He was a brave man,” said a 62-year-old Rastafarian calledOzzie, his long dreadlocks tucked into a crocheted cap. “Andhis music had a message to deliver. Still does.”

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Bands Launch around OrlandoBands Launch around OrlandoBands Launch around OrlandoBands Launch around OrlandoBands Launch around Orlando

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(WASHINGTON POST) A Guyana-born photog-rapher is among three Washington Post pho-tographers who won a Pulitzer Prize for break-ing news photography out of earthquake rav-aged Haiti .

She is Nikki Kahn. She joined the staff at TheWashington Post in January 2005 after her pre-vious job as a photographer and editor atKnight-Ridder Tribune Photo Service in Wash-ington , D.C. She has also worked as a staffphotographer at the Indianapolis Star and asan intern at the Washington Times, the NewsJournal in Wilmington , Del. , and the Anchor-age Daily News in Alaska .

Born in Georgetown , Guyana . Kahn moved to Washington ,D.C~ and studied at American University where she completedher Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in visual me-dia and art history in May 1996. She later attended SyracuseUniversity and completed a masters of science degree in pho-tography in May 2004, with a project on AIDS in Guyana . Shelives in Washington , D.C. , with her husband Michel duCille.Photographers Carol Guzy, Kahn and Ricky Carioti shared theprize and were cheered by dozens who gathered in the Post’snewsroom, where plastic champagne flutes lined a filing cabi-net. The judges said their photos were an “up-close portrait ofgrief and desperation” following the catastrophic quake in Janu-ary 2010.

“They are three exemplary photojournalists whose compas-sion comes through in their work,” Executive Editor MarcusBrauchli said.

This was the fourth Pulitzer for Guzy, who had been coveringHaiti long before the earthquake.

“I started my career covering Haiti , and my heart’s always

Guyanese among Pulitzer PrizeGuyanese among Pulitzer PrizeGuyanese among Pulitzer PrizeGuyanese among Pulitzer PrizeGuyanese among Pulitzer Prizeawardees for Haiti photographyawardees for Haiti photographyawardees for Haiti photographyawardees for Haiti photographyawardees for Haiti photography

been there,” she said. “That country’s beenthrough so much torture ... over the years itjust keeps getting slammed.”

For Guzy, one of the lasting images from herwork over the past year was a photograph of agirl in a school uniform who had been crushedat her desk.

“She’s just the picture of innocence,” Guzysaid. “We knew that the students were still sit-ting at their desks, so it was just a moment ofpeople going about their daily lives and thenboom, the earth trembled and life stopped.”The win came 25 years after Guzy won herfirst Pulitzer Prize with Kahn’s husband,

Michel duCille, at The Miami Herald. Now duCille is the Post’sphotography director.

Post Co. Chairman Don Graham joined the newsroom celebra-tion and hugged the photographers.

Kahn traveled back to Haiti several times after the earthquake,and Carioti documented the aftermath seven months afterthe quake.

“I think the amazing thing was the opportunity to go backthroughout the year and check up on the people I photographedon the first trip,” Kahn said. “It was incredibly important tofind the strength to go out and show the world what the Hai-tian people were going through.”

Carioti said he wanted to see the Pulitzer announcement onlinebefore he would believe he won.

“For me, I had never been to Haiti ,” he said. “Just the shock ofthe conditions that people were living in seven months letter.... I’m sure it’s probably worse now.”

Nikki Kahn

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Caribbean AmericanCaribbean AmericanCaribbean AmericanCaribbean AmericanCaribbean AmericanHeritage CelebrationHeritage CelebrationHeritage CelebrationHeritage CelebrationHeritage Celebration

At the Orange County Public SchoolsAt the Orange County Public SchoolsAt the Orange County Public SchoolsAt the Orange County Public SchoolsAt the Orange County Public SchoolsEducational Leadership Center on 5/11/11Educational Leadership Center on 5/11/11Educational Leadership Center on 5/11/11Educational Leadership Center on 5/11/11Educational Leadership Center on 5/11/11

Pictured left to right Planning Committee Members and Speakers: Dr.Tricia Travis, Dahlia Hayles, Commissioner Sam Ings, Soraya Smith,

Sandy Chambers- Collins, Nancy Charles(Committee Chair). CommitteeMembers not pictured are Janice Jackson and Carmen Robertson.

June was Officially declared, “Caribbean-American HeritageMonth” by President Bush in 2006. . On May 11, OCPSacknowledged and celebrated our Caribbean community

and the contributions of Caribbean Americans who have helpedshape the spirit and character of our great nation. As with otherimmigrants, Caribbean Americans have enriched our societyfor centuries and added to America’s strength.

Florida is home to a large Caribbean population and so is theOrange County School District. After the Common Wealth ofPuerto Rico, Haiti is the most represented country in the Or-ange County Public School English for Speakers of Other Lan-guages program (ESOL). OCPS Celebrates Caribbean Heritagein May to encourage student participation with Caribbeancountry research which showcased at the district office. Thecelebration was a collaboration of two OCPS departments andthe community. Commissioner Samuel B. Ing was a guestspeaker and Consul Laurent Prosper from the Haitian Consu-late also supported the event.

Celebrate June as CaribbeanCelebrate June as CaribbeanCelebrate June as CaribbeanCelebrate June as CaribbeanCelebrate June as CaribbeanAmerican Heritage MonthAmerican Heritage MonthAmerican Heritage MonthAmerican Heritage MonthAmerican Heritage Month

Join us to CelebrateJoin us to CelebrateJoin us to CelebrateJoin us to CelebrateJoin us to CelebrateCaribbean HeritageCaribbean HeritageCaribbean HeritageCaribbean HeritageCaribbean Heritage

For more Information go to www.cahmfestival .comFor more Information go to www.cahmfestival .comFor more Information go to www.cahmfestival .comFor more Information go to www.cahmfestival .comFor more Information go to www.cahmfestival .com

June 4th CAHM Opening Reception at Circa Restaurant

June 5th Indian Arrival Day Citrus Bowl

June 11th Island Beat Heritage Day - St John’s EpiscopalChurch Grounds

June 11 & 12 Caribbean Soccer Tournament - at CentralFlorida Fair Grounds

June 17th BBIF’s 16th Annual Business in Our BackyardNetworking Event - Visit the CaribbeanChamber’s Business Zone

June 18th Central Florida Cricket Assoc - Caribbean All Starvs Asia at Citrus Bowl

June 25th CAHM Festival at Lake Eola

June 26th TTAC - Orlando vs Tampa Olympics in Tampa

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Break Away Moments presented of 'An Avenueof Art' Fine Art Exhibition by photographer,David I. Muir, celebrating the candid beautyof Jamaica's people and its rich, diverse land-scape as seen through his lens.

"Pieces of Jamaica" featured images and per-formances highlighting the culture of Jamaicaand the wider Caribbean. Cultural Perfor-mances were made by Poet, Damali Adele Ife,Spoken Soul Songstress, Crystal Alexandra,and Jamaican Folk Singer, Clover Batts.

'An Avenue of'An Avenue of'An Avenue of'An Avenue of'An Avenue ofArt' Fine ArtArt' Fine ArtArt' Fine ArtArt' Fine ArtArt' Fine Art

ExhibitionExhibitionExhibitionExhibitionExhibition

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The Management & Staff of Laparkan Orlando/PS FreightRequest the pleasure of your company

at the formal opening of their New Office/Warehouse1934 Silver Star Road, Orlando, Florida 32804

On Saturday, June 11, 2011 @ 4.30 p.m. (cocktail reception follows)Attendees Must RSVP

RSVP (407)-298-9887 or Orlando@laparkan.com

The revelry will begin again this Memorial Day week-end, Sun-day May 29th, as the Orlando Cultural Association, Inc. (OCA)kicks off another carnival at Festival Field, across from the Cit-rus Bowl.

The gates will open at 10:00 A.M for the festivities, which willinclude a variety of music of Caribbean origin, among whichare Soca, Reggae, Calypso and Steel Band music. Entertain-ment will be provided by various Caribbean artistes who willbe appearing live, some local and others who will visit. Severallocal DJ’s such as Powerline HD Sounds, DJ Nellie, Kevvy Kev,Tobago John, De Whoops Massive, Pancho Alphanso and oth-ers have been assisting with promoting the event and inform-ing the community of the plans for the festival.

Flavorful Caribbean foods and goodies will be aplenty, and avariety of vendors are expected to be in attendance. Amongthe sponsors for this colorful event are Caribbean Airlines,Caribbean Passport Magazine, Kalla’s Caribbean Kitchen, andSpring Garden Restaurant.

Promoters are anticipating that this year’s carnival will farexceed the previous years, both in attendance, scope and qual-ity.

The “Carnival Party” was started in 1987 as the brainchild ofJohnson Gilbert. Assisted by Mark Modeste, Gloria Chandlerand Tina Stubbs, he guided this event from its infancy, andtoday, the Orlando Carnival has world-wide recognition.

Carnival is Coming!Carnival is Coming!Carnival is Coming!Carnival is Coming!Carnival is Coming!— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —— Continued from page 1 —

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