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Kiddies CarnivalKiddies CarnivalKiddies CarnivalKiddies CarnivalKiddies Carnivalsuch a hit, it willsuch a hit, it willsuch a hit, it willsuch a hit, it willsuch a hit, it willbe held again atbe held again atbe held again atbe held again atbe held again at

the CAHMthe CAHMthe CAHMthe CAHMthe CAHMFestival atFestival atFestival atFestival atFestival atLake EolaLake EolaLake EolaLake EolaLake Eola

CCCCC ocobean Productions re- cently held the third an- nual Kiddies Carnival at thebeautiful Prairie Lake Park inOcoee. The theme this year wasCaribbean Seas. It was a chanceto introduce children both Car-ibbean and American to the truespirit of Caribbean Carnival andeveryone had a blast! Kids fromthe ages of 2 years old to 12 yearsold paraded behind the musictruck in hand-made costumes tothe sounds of soca music. Theywere cheered on by hundreds ofspectators. The kids then par-ticipated in children’s games likefreeze dance (musical statues),hula hoop contests, conga linesand limbo contests. The gamesall took place under the shadeof the huge oak trees that linethe park. Hula hoop contestswere also held for all the moms,dads and grandparents in atten-dance. Lunch included hotdoubles, aloo pies, pholourie,pizza and ice cold drinks. Every-thing wrapped up around 1pm,so the really young ones couldget home in time for their after-noon nap. We’re sure they sleptwell that day! Attendees werealso treated to the sounds of a

An impressive turnout for theAn impressive turnout for theAn impressive turnout for theAn impressive turnout for theAn impressive turnout for the2013 Orlando Carnival2013 Orlando Carnival2013 Orlando Carnival2013 Orlando Carnival2013 Orlando Carnival

Grand Marshals of the Parade included Shana Sampson, Ms. Florida Caribbean and Mr. Laurent Prosper,Consul General of Haiti. Audi of North Orlando provided the convertibles used to lead the parade.

Carnival revelers represented the vast diversity of the Caribbean.

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L I F E S T Y L E

Guenet Gittens-Roberts,

Publisher/Editor

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

Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-RobertsEditor ..........................................................................Natasha SolomonContributing Writers: ................................................... Rosemarie Roth..................................................................................... Natasha Gittens........................................................................................ .Karlyn Hylton............................................................................................ Gail Seeram........................................................................................ Kamal Abdool

. .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell................................................................................ Nouchelle Hastings

Contributing Photographers .................................... Tahara ThompsonDistribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts....................................................................................... Frank Ambrose

GGR Marketing & Public Relations1230 Hillcrest Street, Suite 101 • Orlando, FL 32803

407-427-1800 • guenetroberts@yahoo.comFor Media Information email: capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com

Should you desire to review past copies of the publicationgo to http://www.issuu.com/caribbeanamericanpassport and

search for Caribbean American Passport News Magazine.

wo issues in a row and we feature something aboutColin Powell in the editorial - however, as bothissues fell during June, Caribbean American Heri-

tage Month , I see him as our poster boy for the storyof Caribbean American Heritage, so you’ll have to for-give the fascination. We’re planning our CaribbeanHonors Awards as part of the Celebrations for the thirdAnniversary of the newspaper in September insteadof June as we did last year. Last year’s guest

speaker was Susan Taylor, everyone who knows me knows thatI wanted General Colin Powell to be the guest speaker thisyear....hence, since I didn’t have him attend, his spirit perme-ates every part of the celebrations during Caribbean AmericanHeritage Month.

As I thought about what I should write about in this editorial, Icould not help writing about the story of immigration as we standat the crossroads of an immigration bill that is not resolved asyet. Where, this month despite overwhelming approval, theGovernor of Florida, Rick Scott vetoed the legislation, which wouldhave allowed beneficiaries of President Obama’s Deferred Actionfor Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy to seek driver’s licenses.Where our former Governor Jeb Bush, speaking to religious con-servatives, said that “immigrants are particularly important tohelp create more taxpayers to fund the safety net for the large,retiring baby boomer generation.” I guess he was selling themthe immigration story by showing them the benefit to them, butit’s just too much for me when phrased that way. So I wanted toshare as we do, the positive side of immigration, especially dur-ing Caribbean American Heritage Month and what better storythan the story of General Colin Powell.

A story of Immigration, the story of the extended family of U.S. General Colin Powell, a former Secretary of State, is a clas-sic story of the “American dream” and the ingredients thatmade it possible.

“I look at my aunts and uncles, their children and theirchildren’s children, and I see three generations of constructive,productive, self-reliant members of society,” Powell wrote inhis biography, My American Dream.

Family ValuesColin Powell’s parents were each born in Jamaica, but met inNew York City. Upon arrival they were welcomed by relatives al-ready living in Jamaican neighborhoods of New York City. A work-ing support network was already in place. These emigrants fromJamaica looked after each other’s children, celebrated family birth-days and anniversaries, and buried each others’ parents.

Colin Powell’s sister Marilyn Burns once joked that she spentso much time keeping in touch with relatives that she neededan 800 number.

These strong family systems held the American dream at adistance, knowing that things closer at hand – such as familyloyalty, hard work and the opportunity to have a good educa-tion – were the present reality and a path to the future.

The Work EthicThe first generation in America took what work they could get.They were warehouse workers, janitors, freight loaders, gar-bage collectors, dressmakers, maids and factory workers. Theyput in long hours for low wages. When children became teen-agers they worked days and studied nights.

Thanks to hard work and savings, as well as the GI Bill and NewYork public schools, these immigrants were able to send theirchildren to college. Family roots were a protective framework

and, with education as a catalyst, young Jamaicans were in-spired to extend their grasp. In Colin Powell’s extended familythese mostly American-born Jamaicans became ambassadors,teachers, business owners, doctors, lawyers, politicians andjudges. The kid they called “Sweet Pea” scored two bulls eyes: hebecame General Colin Powell and Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Living the American DreamMost of the second generation minimally had bachelor’s de-grees. Colin’s sister Marilyn was the first woman of the extendedfamily to earn a master’s degree. Her daughter has a master’sdegree from Yale and Colin’s son has a law degree fromGeorgetown. Cousin Arthur Lewis rebelled and entered the navy.After retiring as a chief petty officer, he got two degrees fromDartmouth, joined the foreign service and eventually becameU. S. ambassador to Sierra Leone.

When Colin Powell’s dad, Luther, arrived in New York he livedwith the Watsons. James Watson was operating an elevator topay his way through law school. He became New York’s firstblack judge. Son James served in the New York Senate beforehis appointment as a federal judge. Son Douglas became anaeronautical engineer. Daughter Barbara became the firstwoman and the first black person to serve as an assistant sec-retary of state and became ambassador to Malaysia.

When Bruce Llewellyn was registering for high school, the guid-ance counselor suggested an auto-repair course. Mother arrivedat the school in a rage and demanded he be put in an aca-demic class. The counselor said college was expensive. Mothersaid: “You do your job and teach him. I’ll do my job and seethat his tuition gets paid.” (U. S. News and World Report articleby Steven V. Roberts) Llewellyn made a fortune in business ven-tures, including a Coca-Cola bottling plant, a television sta-tion and Essence Magazine. The list of family members andtheir achievements goes on and on.

The Colin Powell clan prospered in the same way other immi-grants have. They attached importance to strong family rootsand family values. They understood the relationship betweenself discipline and high standards. Hard work and educationwere not seen as an end in themselves, but as enablers to achiev-ing success.

Happy Caribbean American Heritage Month to you, remem-ber that we are proud to be immigrants, remember your strongfamily values and roots, and let’s continue to work hard andcontinue to shine!

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n his meeting with 15 Presidents, Prime Ministers andother senior ministry officials from the Caribbean region,Vice President Biden discussed the United States’ commit-ment to deepening economic collaboration and expand-ing prosperity and social inclusion in the region. The lead-ers also discussed citizen security cooperation and theimportance of building safe communities that contributeto a favorable business and investment climate.

The United States supports the region’s economic growth andsocial inclusion efforts through multiple, complementary pro-grams that contribute to: building strong, capable and trans-parent institutions; facilitating trade and creating favorablebusiness and investment climates; expanding access to reli-able, clean, and affordable energy; and investing in humancapital so that citizens are prepared to contribute to the devel-opment of their communities.

During his visit to Trinidad and Tobago, Vice President Bidensigned the United States – Caribbean Community (CARICOM)Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) on behalfof the United States. President Martelly of Haiti, serving in hiscapacity as Chair of CARICOM, signed on behalf of the 15member states. The Agreement provides a strategic frameworkand principles for dialogue on trade and investment issues ofmutual interest. The TIFA establishes the United States –CARICOM Trade and Investment Council that will guide imple-mentation of the Agreement.

During bilateral meetings between Vice President Biden andPrime Minister Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago, thetwo leaders discussed a recently signed Memorandum of Un-derstanding (MOU) to advance cooperation on the scientific,technical, and policy aspects of energy efficiency and cleanenergy technologies. The MOU establishes a Renewable En-

ergy Research Centre to promote the rapid deployment of criti-cal technologies for renewable energy and energy efficiencydeployment in the Caribbean.

Other examples of U.S. economic and development activitiesin the Caribbean include:

Facilitating Trade and Creating Favorable Businessand Investment Climates:

• In 2012, U.S. imports from Caribbean countries under theCaribbean Basin Initiative totaled more than $11 billion,representing a 178 percent increase over the past decade.U.S. exports equaled nearly $12 billion, representing a 133percent increase over the past decade.

• In 2012, the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-ImBank) committed more than $44 million in loans and guar-antees that supported an energy project off the coast ofTrinidad and Tobago and a solar power generation systemin Barbados.

• The Organization of American States and the University ofTexas at San Antonio, with funding from the State Depart-ment, are supporting the adaptation of the U.S. Small Busi-ness Center model in five Caribbean countries, which in-cludes Belize, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Barbados, and Dominica.Institutions that support small and medium enterprises willbe strengthened in order to provide better services to SMEswith the objective to generate more jobs in the Caribbeanand facilitate greater regional trade, including with the U.S.and Latin America.

• The United States has concluded Open Skies Air TransportAgreements with six CARICOM members. Open Skies agree-ments greatly increase options for airlines, passengers, andshippers and help promote increased travel and trade, en-

United States Support for EconomicUnited States Support for EconomicUnited States Support for EconomicUnited States Support for EconomicUnited States Support for EconomicGrowth and Development in the CaribbeanGrowth and Development in the CaribbeanGrowth and Development in the CaribbeanGrowth and Development in the CaribbeanGrowth and Development in the Caribbean

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Consulate General invitesConsulate General invitesConsulate General invitesConsulate General invitesConsulate General invitesNominations for JamaicaNominations for JamaicaNominations for JamaicaNominations for JamaicaNominations for JamaicaDiaspora Honours 2013Diaspora Honours 2013Diaspora Honours 2013Diaspora Honours 2013Diaspora Honours 2013

to commemorateto commemorateto commemorateto commemorateto commemorateIndependence AnniversaryIndependence AnniversaryIndependence AnniversaryIndependence AnniversaryIndependence Anniversary

amaica’s Consul General, Sandra Grant Griffiths is in-viting nominations from Jamaicans in the SouthernUSA for the 2013 Awards to be presented at the JamaicaIndependence Gala & 2013 Honours, on Saturday,August 3, to be held at the Signature Grand in Davie.

In commemoration of the Nation’s 51st Anniversary,the Consulate General in collaboration with

the Jamaica United Relief Association (JURA), will hostthe Official Independence Gala which will also recognize na-tionals for service to their community and country.

According to the Consul General, “The Consulate’s introduc-tion of the official Jamaica Diaspora Honours Gala for our 2013Independence Anniversary celebrations received an over-whelmingly positive response from our Diaspora. We haveconsistently reiterated the principle of collaborative partner-ships in our outreach efforts and projects, and remain deeplyappreciative for the support extended by the community andfriends of Jamaica. As we continue to underscore unity ofpurpose we are especially thrilled and delighted to join withJURA to present this year’s celebratory Gala Awards Ceremony- “United….The Journey Continues”.

The Award categories will include community-building, phi-lanthropy, public service, entrepreneurship, youth leadershipand the cultural arts and will again identify the outstandingcontributions of contemporary change-makers and long-serv-ing luminaries. The selection process will be guided by aJamaica Diaspora Honours Selection Committee.

Nominations Forms are currently available at the Consulate’swebsite (www.jamaicacgmiami.org); or request by email:info@jamaicacgmiami.org, or telephone 305-374-8431. The finaldeadline for submission of nominations is Thursday, July 11, 2013.

Contact: Cheryl Wynter Consulate General of Jamaica

25 SE Second Avenue – 609 Miami, FL 33131

305-374-8431 ext. 232 ? 954-559-3955 (cell)info@jamaicacgmiami.org

Website: www.jamaicacgmiami.org

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National Caribbean HeritageNational Caribbean HeritageNational Caribbean HeritageNational Caribbean HeritageNational Caribbean HeritageMonth, 2013Month, 2013Month, 2013Month, 2013Month, 2013

By the President of theBy the President of theBy the President of theBy the President of theBy the President of theUnited States of AmericaUnited States of AmericaUnited States of AmericaUnited States of AmericaUnited States of America

A PROCLAMATIONA PROCLAMATIONA PROCLAMATIONA PROCLAMATIONA PROCLAMATIONor centuries, the United States and nations in the Car-ibbean have grown alongside each other as partnersin progress. Separated by sea but united by a yearn

ing for independence, our countries won the right tochart their own destinies after generations of colonialrule. Time and again, we have led the way to a brighterfuture together — from lifting the stains of slavery andsegregation to widening the circle of opportunity for oursons and daughters.

National Caribbean-American Heritage Month is a time tocelebrate those enduring achievements. It is also a chance torecognize men and women who trace their roots to the Carib-bean. Through every chapter of our Nation’s history, Carib-bean Americans have made our country stronger — reshapingour politics and reigniting the arts, spurring our movementsand answering the call to serve. Caribbean traditions haveenriched our own, and woven new threads into our culturalfabric. Again and again, Caribbean immigrants and their de-scendants have reaffirmed America’s promise as a land of op-portunity — a place where no matter who you are or whereyou come from, you can make it if you try.

Together, as a Nation of immigrants, we will keep writing thatstory. And alongside our partners throughout the Caribbean,we will keep working to achieve inclusive economic growth,access to clean and affordable energy, enhanced security, andlasting opportunity for all our people. As we honor CaribbeanAmericans this month, let us strengthen the ties that bind usas members of the Pan American community, and let us re-solve to carry them forward in the years ahead.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the UnitedStates of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by theConstitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaimJune 2013 as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Iencourage all Americans to celebrate the history and culture ofCaribbean Americans with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen,and of the Independence of the United States of America thetwo hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

United States Support forUnited States Support forUnited States Support forUnited States Support forUnited States Support forEconomic Economic Economic Economic Economic Growth andGrowth andGrowth andGrowth andGrowth and

Development in the CaribbeanDevelopment in the CaribbeanDevelopment in the CaribbeanDevelopment in the CaribbeanDevelopment in the Caribbean—Continued from page 4——Continued from page 4——Continued from page 4——Continued from page 4——Continued from page 4—

hance productivity, and spur high-quality job opportunitiesand economic growth.

Expanding Access to Reliable, Clean, and AffordableEnergy:

• Under the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas(ECPA), the Department of Energy is engaging the Carib-bean hotel and hospitality sector to shape a greener energymarket by embracing energy efficient and renewable en-ergy technology solutions and supporting government ef-forts to advance clean energy policies.

• Connecting the Americas 2022, an ECPA initiative, hassupported Ministerial-level public/private dialogues for re-ducing Caribbean dependency on imported fossil fuels forpower generation, which contributes to the Caribbeanpaying among the world’s highest electricity prices. Do-nors have funded six analytical and pre-feasibility stud-ies exploring the commercial and technical viability ofinter-island interconnections that could facilitate renew-able energy development, particularly geothermal in theEastern Caribbean. State’s Power Sector Program will pro-vide technical assistance to advance geothermal and in-ter-island connections in the Caribbean and is in discus-sions with Caribbean officials regarding specific areas oftechnical cooperation in support of Connect 2022. Lead-ers will next meet during the Caribbean Renewable En-ergy Forum in October 2013 to discuss potential gas andrenewables expansion.

• The State Department in partnership with Purdue Univer-sity, also under ECPA, is collaborating with Partners of theAmericas and the University of the West Indies to develop

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23 Years of Service to Orlando & Surrounding Areas1989 – 2013

— Continued on page 25 —

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By Roger Caldwell

merican lawmakers create laws that help their friendsand no one knows why they are important. Gover-nor Scott signed into law HB4001, which repealeda bill that was passed in 2008, that required gaso-line sold in Florida to contain 10% ethanol. Op-ponents of the bill said it would send a chillingmessage to biofuels investors, and hurt job cre-

ation in the state.

The bill was opposed by bio-energy companies, but GovernorScott signed it into law last week anyway. CEO Paul Woods ofAlgenol, a bio-energy company said his company’s plan to in-vest $400 million in the state has been jeopardized with thegovernor’s decision. The company was getting ready to buildits first commercial production facility producing 15 to 20 mil-lion gallons of ethanol from algae, and employing hundredsof employees.

Initially, I was upset that our governor was losing hundreds ofjobs, but then I realized that the bill did not make a differencebecause the federal law superseded the state law. The federalgovernment pays oil companies $6 billion a year to blend etha-nol into ourgasoline. For33 years thefederal gov-ernment hasm a n d a t e dthat our gasoline would be mixed with ethanol, and the oil com-panies would receive 45 cents for every gallon of gas.

Ethanol production is not going away, and Governor Scott sign-ing a bill will not change the use of ethanol in gasoline. Manygovernment officials do not believe that oil companies should

receive a subsidy, but ethanol companies will be in greater de-mand in the future. The national Biofuels Board chaired bythe Energy Secretary is considering raising the 10% ethanollevel now in our gasoline to 15%. They believe this will lowerour dependence on imported oil.

Proponents of the renewable fuel standard argue that 45% ofthe demand for foreign oil decreased because of ethanol pro-duction. The addition of ethanol blends into the gasoline hasreduced the price by $1.09 a gallon.

Many of the opponents to the renewable fuel standard, chargethat this type of policy places the government in a position topick winners and losers. As the government continues to raisethe amount of ethanol in the gasoline, the car companies willbe forced to build flexible fuel vehicles, whose engines can use85% of ethanol.

The global expansion of biofuel industry has contributed tohigher food prices and a shortage of land for food-based agri-culture. Governor Scott iscorrect when he says thatethanol is causing a short-age of cattle feed forFlorida ranchers and help-ing to raise food prices. Butin Brazil, some of their carsuse 100% of ethanol to op-erate their vehicles, andthey have created a newindustry that employsthousands of workers.y isgrowing and the State ofFlorida will be forced to

make adjustments with food-based agriculture. There are thou-sands of jobs in the biofuel industry available to Florida, andinvestors are searching for visionary governors. There is anabundance of economic opportunities in the renewable biofuelindustry, and wasting time with legislature that is supersededby Federal law makes no sense.

Is Governor Scott Right When heIs Governor Scott Right When heIs Governor Scott Right When heIs Governor Scott Right When heIs Governor Scott Right When hesigned Into Law HB4001?signed Into Law HB4001?signed Into Law HB4001?signed Into Law HB4001?signed Into Law HB4001?

Opponents of the bill said it would send a chilling message to biofuels investors, and hurt job creation in the state.

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Caribbean-American Appointed PoliceCaribbean-American Appointed PoliceCaribbean-American Appointed PoliceCaribbean-American Appointed PoliceCaribbean-American Appointed PoliceChief of Miami Dade Public SchoolsChief of Miami Dade Public SchoolsChief of Miami Dade Public SchoolsChief of Miami Dade Public SchoolsChief of Miami Dade Public Schools

Major Moffett is also an online faculty instructor for the Univer-sity of Phoenix and teaches Critical Incident Management andConcepts of Physical Facility Security and Personal Protection tograduate level students. He is currently the co-chair for the Train-ing Committee under the Florida Department of Law Enforce-ment, Region 7 Domestic Security Task Force and the TrainingRepresentative for the City of Miami Urban Area Security Initia-tive (UASI). Major Moffett is also the chairman for the FloridaCriminal Justice Training Center Directors Association and rep-

resents all 40 certified training centers in thestate. He is currently the Vice President for theNational Association of School Safety and LawEnforcement Officials (NASSLEO) and a Sub-ject Matter Expert for the United States Depart-ment of Education on issues related to emer-gency management in schools.

He was previously responsible for the Mi-ami Police Department’s Training & Person-nel Development Section. Major Moffett wasalso the Training Center Director for theMiami Police Training Center, which is com-prised of a new police college.

Previously, Major Moffett was employed withMiami-Dade Schools Police Department forover 15 years. Formerly a member of the US

Army, he has given over 24 years of government service at theNational, State, and Local levels.

Ian A. Moffett

he Miami Dade County School Board recentlyappointed Caribbean American and native ofGuyana, City of Miami Major Ian A. Moffett as itsnext Police Chief.

Moffett was born in Georgetown, Guyana and atthe age of six, he migrated to Toronto, Canada withhis parents and sister. In 1985, Major Moffett thenmigrated to Miami, Florida with his family. Major

Moffett is cur-rently employed by the City ofMiami Police Department.

He has a total of 20 years of law enforcementexperience, and possesses a Master’s of Sci-ence Degree from the University of Cincinnatiand a Bachelors of Science Degree in Crimi-nal Justice from Florida International Univer-sity. He is also a graduate of the prestigiousUniversity of Louisville, Southern Police Insti-tute Command Officers Development Course.Major Moffett has worked and trained withMulti-Agencies regarding responding to criti-cal incidents and has given countless work-shops in the area of Youth Violence, GangAwareness, School Safety, Weapon of MassDestruction, Emergency Management, andtactical training. He is currently a certified in-structor and holds a specialty in firearms through the FloridaDepartment of Law Enforcement.

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CaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanChamber of CommerceChamber of CommerceChamber of CommerceChamber of CommerceChamber of Commerce

www.caccfl.comwww.caccfl.comwww.caccfl.comwww.caccfl.comwww.caccfl.com

IS YOUR NET - WORKING?IS YOUR NET - WORKING?IS YOUR NET - WORKING?IS YOUR NET - WORKING?IS YOUR NET - WORKING?10 KEYS TO NETWORKING SUCCESS10 KEYS TO NETWORKING SUCCESS10 KEYS TO NETWORKING SUCCESS10 KEYS TO NETWORKING SUCCESS10 KEYS TO NETWORKING SUCCESS

By Ivan Misner, Founder & Chairman of BNI

“A good networker has two ears and one mouth and uses themproportionately.”

1. Give to get. Enter networking situations planning to be help-ful to your associates. The benefits will follow.

2. Set goals and focus on them. Spend time with each per-son. Find out what they need and let them know howthey can help you. Then move on. Save your socializingfor social occasions.

3. Keep it short and to-the-point. Learn how to describe yourproduct or service and the kinds of leads you need in oneminute or less. Then do it.

4. Don’t be a networking nomad. Attend a few diverse net-working groups consistently. Quality counts over quantity.

5. Find the assertive balance. Too passive and you’re notnetworking, you’re net-sitting. Too aggressive and you’llbe branded a hustler.

6. Develop “contact spheres” or networking teams. Theseshould be people who are looking for the same kind ofleads you are, but who are in non-competition businesses.

7. Choose disciplined groups that: (a) Have a set forma; (b)Are structured frankly for exchanging business leads, notfor socializing; (c) Are both dynamic and stable, keeping asolid membership base while attracting new members.

8. Be a good listener.

9. Never let up. Every situation is a networking situation. Al-ways carry business cards. When you get a card, note thecircumstances on the back.

10. Follow up. Networking is meant to develop leads. It is thefollow-up that actually produces the sales.you be the Cham-ber Small Business Development Team. Want to join?

Brought to you by the Chamber Small Business DevelopmentTeam. Want to join?

Small Business Membership is $100.00 for the year. Goto www.caccfl.com for membership information and re-source information.

Thursday, June 27, 2013 6:00 PM to 8:00 PMNational Entrepreneur Center

3201 East Colonial Drive,Suite #A-20, Orlando, FL 32803

(Inside of the Fashion Square Mall)

Email: RabetBrownSpeaks@gmail.comTelephone: 407-900-5850

Orlando Business Journal’s Circulation Executive Sevilla Trevisaniwas the Chamber’s Guest Speaker at the CACCF Lunch& Learn Series at Pasha Mediterranean Restaurant.

Attendees were shown how to use the Journal to increasesales, networking and business development strategies.

May’s Business After Hours was held at Oley’s Kitchen & SmokehouseRestaurant and Catering. The restaurant specializes in Soul Food andCaribbean Food at 2700 South Rio Grande Ave. Orlando, Fl. 32805.

Entrepreneurs Night Out Red Carpet

NETWORKING EVENT

Chamber Spotlight Member:Chamber Spotlight Member:Chamber Spotlight Member:Chamber Spotlight Member:Chamber Spotlight Member:Caribbeanfinder.com has been selected for

the 2013 Best of Apopka Award in the Lodg-ing category by the Apopka Award Program. Congratu-

lations to Howard Sadler and his team at Caribbeanfinder.com.

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he Central Florida Urban League is excited to be acommunity partner with the Caribbean AmericanPassport News Magazine, as we launch the Urban

Advisor sponsored by Fifth Third Bank. The UrbanAdvisor will be a monthly column filled with pro-grams and service information regarding employ-ment opportunities, housing, financial literacy, youthand education.

The Central Florida Urban League (formerly known as theMetropolitan Orlando Urban League) was founded on August5, 1977 and chartered as a national organization on May 28,1978. An affiliate of the National Urban League, our chapterwas created by respected community leaders who believed thatOrlando’s African-American community would benefit fromprofessional, economic, and social support. Today, more than40,000 residents have benefited from our various empower-ment programs.

It is the vision of the Central Florida Urban League to be theleading social service provider that helps empower Central Flo-ridians to achieve social and economic success for the better-ment of the entire Central Florida region.

We thank and appreciate Fifth Third Bank’s commitment tosupport the community it serves through the sponsorship ofthe Urban Advisor.

My staff and I look forward to providing you with programsand services that will empower our community and change lives.

Upcoming EventsFinancial Empowerment Summit

July 20, 2013The Summit will provide citizens with essential tools for plan-ning and protecting your financial success. You can attend cus-tomized empowerment sessions for Budget and Credit, EstatePlanning, Retirement Planning and Foreclosure Prevention.

The event is free and open to the public. Complimentary park-ing, breakfast and lunch are included. Advanced registrationis required to attend. Register online at cful.org or call 407-480-5471 for more information.

Programs and ServicesEconomic ServicesWashington Shores Service Center927 S. Goldwyn AvenueOrlando, Florida 32805407-472-9997

Youth and EducationPine Hills Service Center2804 Belco DriveOrlando, Florida 32808

AllieBraswell

The Urban Advis r

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As the 26th Annual Orlando Carnival wraps up, theplanning committee celebrates a successful parade andstage show held during the Memorial Day holiday

weekend. The celebration consisted of mas bands and steelbands that entertained crowds of thousands during the fes-tive and colorful parade of bands.

The event brought together two staples of Caribbean-style Carni-val: Mas, the culturally-expressive art form of creating beauti-

The Orlando Cultural CarnivalThe Orlando Cultural CarnivalThe Orlando Cultural CarnivalThe Orlando Cultural CarnivalThe Orlando Cultural CarnivalAssociation celebrates an impressiveAssociation celebrates an impressiveAssociation celebrates an impressiveAssociation celebrates an impressiveAssociation celebrates an impressive

turnout for the 2013 Orlando Carnivalturnout for the 2013 Orlando Carnivalturnout for the 2013 Orlando Carnivalturnout for the 2013 Orlando Carnivalturnout for the 2013 Orlando Carnivalfully decorated costumes; and Music, as expressed through steelbands, DJs, and musical artistes. Following the parade, thousandsgathered inside the festival village to enjoy the food and craftvendors, and were entertained by performances by some of theCaribbean region’s top acts. The Association’s President Carl whenasked about the Carnival said, “I want to say a special thank youto the members of the 2013 planning committee, the sponsorsand the bandleaders for coming together to produce another greatCarnival season.”

LynneWe Run Dat Ent.’sDesmond & Tracey Host of the Carnival Smallie wowing the crowd

Revelers for 2013, from young to old enjoyed the mas on the road.

A Happy Reveler

Consul General of Haiti Laurent Prosper, stands in the backgroundwith the President of the Carnival Cultural Association

Carl holding the Haitian Flag

Merv, Jammer, Jimmy and Tigress withperformer Roy Cape in the middle Andy King, Alan Gopie and Sam Roberts

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Caribbean Students’Caribbean Students’Caribbean Students’Caribbean Students’Caribbean Students’Association at UCFAssociation at UCFAssociation at UCFAssociation at UCFAssociation at UCF

collects books for KLFcollects books for KLFcollects books for KLFcollects books for KLFcollects books for KLFThe Caribbean Students’ Association at the University of

Central Florida’s recently collected over 400 books, whichwere donated to the Kerosene Lamp Foundation. The

books will be distributed to children in St. Vincent and theGrenadines when KLF visits the Island Nation this Summer.

Find Caribbean Restaurants, Plumbers, Events,Discount Coupons, Deals and Much More!

Caribbean Students’ Association-UCF Executive Board Members andtheir Advisor Anne Marie de Govia with some of the donated books

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Too-Tall Foyle Finds His GameWritten by Adonal D. Foyle & Shiyana F. Valentine-Williams

Too-Tall Foyle Finds His Game is the first in a new children’s fiction series based on the experiences

of retired NBA veteran player Adonal Foyle and his lifelong journey from growing up in the Caribbean

to getting a college education and playing in the NBA. Too-Tall Foyle is a young boy living on a tiny

island in the Caribbean. He is having trouble finding a sport to play because he is “too tall,” and all the

other kids keep laughing at his clumsy attempts at a range of sports from soccer to track & field. He

gets so discouraged until he discovers basketball. Too-Tall Foyle’s experience will teach children a

range of important lessons, including that it is okay to try new activities and not be good at them, never

to give up and always believe in yourself. The book is paired with beautiful and vibrant illustrations by

Toni Pawlowsky.

About the Authors

Adonal D. Foyle

Retired NBA veteran player Adonal Foyle grew up in the tiny nation of St. Vincent & the Grenadines,

where he first picked up a basketball at the age of 15. His quest for a college education, which

ultimately led him to the USA and into the NBA, is an amazing & inspirational story of ambition, hard

work and a little bit of luck. The eighth overall NBA draft pick in 1997, Adonal played for 13 years in the

NBA – a decade with the Golden State Warriors and three years with the Orlando Magic. He

graduated magna cum laude from Colgate University and has a Masters in Sports Psychology from

John F. Kennedy University. He is extremely active in the community and has founded two nonprofit

organizations, Democracy Matters & Kerosene Lamp Foundation, to assist youths.

Shiyana F. Valentine-Williams

Shiyana Valentine-Williams is the Executive Director of Kerosene Lamp Foundation. She is passionate

about KLF’s work to empower the next generation and throws her heart & soul into their youth

programs. A closet writer since a young age, this is her first literary undertaking. Shiyana has a BA

from Colgate University and an MA from American University.

Introducing Too-Tall Foyle!

A heartwarming children’s series

based on the life experiences

of NBA veteran player Adonal

Foyle as he journeys from the

Caribbean to the USA to achieve

a college education and become

an NBA player.

For children aged 3 to 8 years.

Ordering Information

AFE, LLC – April 2013 – 24 pagesISBN: 978-0989334808

Suggested Retail Price: $16.99

Order Too-Tall Foyle Finds His Game

! AFE, LLC: ww.AdonalFoyle.com/store.shtml

Bulk/wholesale order discounts available

E: svalentine@AdonalFoyle.com

P: 925-699-9754

Contact us with author reading & appearance requests

! Amazon: www.Amazon.com

! Ingram (wholesale): www.IngramContent.com

1 81 81 81 81 8

live Garden is a family of more than 800local restaurants committed to providingevery guest with a genuine Italian din-ing experience. It is a Darden ownedconcept known for its warm and family-enriched commercials that says whenyou’re here, you’re family……this is

again because of Olive Garden’s commit-ment to meet 100% guest delight and treat-

ing guests like family.

Years ago I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle who is cel-ebrating her 9th year with Olive Garden. Personally, I believethat Michelle is a change agent who knows all too well theimportance of helping her peers reach and exceed Darden’sexpectations on commitment and sees every guest as family.Michelle began with Olive Garden as a server and had no im-mediate plans of moving up because she had a career in thepet business. Additionally she worked with children withmental health disabilities and initially only took the job withOlive Garden to earn extra income to care for the rescued ani-mals and the children’s lives that she touched. Her role withthe company was working with training and development andopening stores.

One day when Michelle came home after celebrating the open-ing of a store, she learned of two infant girls who had beenabandoned – they had no place to go except for children ser-vices which was hard for her to accept. Michelle had experi-ence in rescuing pets and caring for mental ill children buthad no guide or comparison to what was ahead of her. Thesetwo little babies needed a home and she couldn’t say no. Chil-dren services asked her to make a 6-month commitment andsaid that they would help her with everything from A-Z (whichof course was more promises than fulfilled effort).

Michelle who was unable to bear children, had no maternalinstinct but she was willing to try. These were very sick littlegirls. They were methamphetamine babies and cried con-stantly, they were sickly and underweight and had never seena doctor. The baby girls were three and six months old andthey were in bad health. With the caring hand of her motherand rock steady promise to always be there for them, the twoof them mom and grandma are showing the world how to winagainst the odds.

Michelle called and nagged the Department of Children andFamilies who constantly gave her the run around; going brokeand losing everything she vowed to take care of these babies.She attempted everything but nothing anywhere was giving way– but she kept pressing. She had to pay for medical care out ofpocket and because she had a job with Darden, getting moneyand other assistance for the girls (her babies) seemed like anendless journey. When she would call or write, she would hear“You don’t qualify for this or you cannot receive that”. Discour-aged by the lack of integrity in the department and burdenedby the cares of the day, Michelle still found a way to work all ofher shifts with patience and extended kindness to all of the guests.Michelle would be the first to tell you that she saw work as anescape from the crying and constant care for her sick babies.When she would arrive at work the employees and guests werealways smiling and offering love. Perhaps she overrated themoment but it was the only moments of peace from the cryingand having adult appreciation and interaction.

The babies had everything from heart problems, to GI prob-lems, temper tantrums, five to six breathing treatments daily,

skin problems, and throat problems – more than 15 medicalproblems between the two of them. When the babies were 1and 2 they had surgery and then again at 4 another surgery.Although the girls are growing and getting better the journeyof their young lives is long. Every day these babies rely onthe life that their mom lives – without a great mother likeMichelle these little girls would be lost and devastated.Michelle has 0% time to care for herself; her days are filledwith giving 100% to her babies and 100% to her company.And she takes pride in both.

Michelle gives thanks to her Darden family because it was be-ing employed by Darden that helped her give her baby’s lifewhen life was against them and in return she gives back byhigh performance and excellence. Michelle’s position causesher to work the evening and night shift so her times with thebabies are usually in the morning. If she arrives home at 3:00AM, she is up again when they wake up having breakfast andbonding time before they are off to school. She video tapesthem and shares all types of goofiness with them so when theyare apart she has the laughter of their voices and loving facesto carry her through the day.

I think what I admire most is how Michelle has found a way tomaster this process – she is a single mother because men haveshied away from that type of responsibility. Being a woman Iknow that we need the comfort and strong hand of our malecounterparts telling us that we can make it but she has to findthat support from her Darden family and the guests that giveher hugs and warm smiles. She is confident that when thetime is right and her daughters are more independent a newlove and father and husband will come to join their family.

Michelle tells of a time when her daughters needed special careand had to go for a medical treatment – she was down on herday and feeling reflective about her life. She was thinking‘should I have done something different, have I given the girlswhat they really need, would the girls be better with someoneelse’……thoughts were just running through her heart. Shewas tired because she had not had much sleep and there shewas running, running, running to keep her daughters healthy.The thoughts continued; She thought about the day her lifewent from having custodial care for the girls to becoming theirmother when the adoption was complete, she thought aboutalthough she doesn’t see her babies every minute and secondof the day, she sees them changing and growing; she thoughtabout their high pitched voices saying “my mommy’s com-ing” when she walks through the doors at school and shethought how those little girls are a reflection of her, good, bad,indifferent and just when she was deep in the thought shelooked up and on the wall of the facility was a Darden Philan-thropic tree and she began to cry with comfort. She says thatwas her sign that life for Michelle and her girls exist because ofthe Darden family. She says that “Darden takes care of theirown and they take care of me – Darden has been right herewith me on this journey and keeps me from feeling alone.”

She ended by saying my job is simple; it’s sharing a meal withfamily it’s knowing that life is not guaranteed and it comeswith challenges – she says who knows if the incoming guest issuffering from hardship or insurmountable circumstances be-cause you cannot see it just like no one can see what I gothrough with my babies. So every day for me is a celebrationand the celebration takes place at my house, my store and it’smy pleasure to share with my family the rich heritage and joythat our guests and family has been coming here for decadesto experience……because when you’re here, you’re family.

LEADING LADIES BEHIND THE SCENESAND ON THE FRONT LINE

Nouchelle Hastings: “Girl What Do You Bring to the Table?”Nouchelle Hastings: “Girl What Do You Bring to the Table?”Nouchelle Hastings: “Girl What Do You Bring to the Table?”Nouchelle Hastings: “Girl What Do You Bring to the Table?”Nouchelle Hastings: “Girl What Do You Bring to the Table?”

Welcome to my column on Leading Ladies behind the Scenes. Our column will introduce you to leadingladies who have branded their own recognition and blazed their own trails. These ladies work behindthe scenes but manage the front line with high impact results. You might have heard their namesor admired their work, but never met them up close and personal. Our column will give you thechance to meet these ladies so you can place a face with the name and their trendsetting work in ourcommunity, various organizations and in business. Thank you for celebrating their value with us.

Michelle Walker, Service Manager for Olive Garden Store 1175, Darden CorporationMichelle Walker, Service Manager for Olive Garden Store 1175, Darden CorporationMichelle Walker, Service Manager for Olive Garden Store 1175, Darden CorporationMichelle Walker, Service Manager for Olive Garden Store 1175, Darden CorporationMichelle Walker, Service Manager for Olive Garden Store 1175, Darden Corporation

1 91 91 91 91 9

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My fellow BWIans, greetings:

Like me, perhaps you attended the re-cently held “Ordination To The Priest-hood” Eucharistic Ceremony Saturday,May 25, 2013, at St. James Cathedral –wasn’t it a spiritually filled gathering –and came away thanking God for giv-ing us (the Diocese of Orlando), four (4) new priest to shepherd us…

Having said that, let me take this opportunity to either remind you orshare with you an “invitation” to a similar upcoming ordination, that isequally important to us, the British (Caribbean) West Indian Community.

On Saturday June 29, 2013, 10:00 a.m., seven (7) men will be ordained“Permanent Deacon”. Among the ordinands is one of our own, Mr. RuthvenJackie. I proudly make this acclamation because Ruthven was born inTrinidad (T&T), and spent quite a number of his adult years in Jamaica.

While they are many British West Indians’ born priests and deacons serving invarious parishes throughout the USA, to the best of my knowledge, Ruthvenwill be the first to be ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of Orlando.

As a proud patriot of the British West Indians Community, it is primarily thisreason I write not only to strongly encouraged you and your household toattend the ordination, but to solicit your help in sharing this good news withas many as you can of our fellow British West Indians…as well as others too.The goal is - with your help - to have a very strong showing of us, the BritishWest Indians Community in the Cathedral supporting Ruthven.

Again, with your help and enthusiasm, I am confident we can accomplishthis objective…so please pass the word along.

My contact information is Ludlow14@gmail.com or Tel: 407, 826-5396.If I get a good sense of a strong commitment, I will arrange reservedseating for us – the British West Indians (Caribbean) Community.

Thanks, and I will look forward to seeing you and you and you, Saturday,June 29, 2013, 10:00 at St. James Cathedral…

Caribbean American Heritage Month Ribbon Cutting Cer-emony at City Hall declared the month of June openfor celebrations in Central Florida.

Events still upcoming include:

June 22nd Gospel Fiesta at St John’s Episcopal Parish HallFeaturing Opera Gospel, Solid Rock Children’t Choir and muchmore. Contact: Maria at 407-301-7647.

June 23rd CAHM Festival at Lake EolaEvent starts at 12pm and goes until 8pm. Free Family Festivalwith cultural entertainment, kiddies carnival, caribbean foodand drinks on the lake to the sounds of Caribbean music.

June 28th Caribbean Experience White Party by RaiseYour Glass Promotions at Le Rouge Wine Bar and Tapas7730 West Sand Lake Road, Orlando FL , 328198pm -2am - Entertainment by Rhythm Trails Steel Drum Band

June 29th & 30Caribbean Chamber Volusia County ChapterCelebration In Honor of Caribbean American Heritage MonthService - Saturday JUNE 29Th, 2013. 10amPraise Concert - Sunday June 30th, 2013 6pmVolusia Int’l Bible Fellowship301 W. Blue Spring Ave. Orange City 32763Volusia County Contact: Naomi- 407-431-7418

June 29th TTAC ‘Back in Time’Dance at the Soiree Event Centerwith Tony Ricardo and a 3 step dance competition - ContactTobago for tickets - 407-234-5047

June 30th Caribbean Lime on Sunday at CaribbeanSunshine Restaurant16112 Marsh Road, Winter Garden FL, 3pm-7pmEnjoy an afternoon of a Good Old Fashioned Caribbean Lim-ing to end the month of activities.Admission: Free. Contact: Sam Roberts 407-810-6435

A full photographic display of the entire month of events willbe featured in the July issue of the newspaper. All of the eventsfor the months including the opening ceremony will be fea-tured in July’s CAP issue. This is a special issue and it will hitnewsstands on July 15th. Reserve your spot in this special cel-ebration issue!

June open for celebrationsJune open for celebrationsJune open for celebrationsJune open for celebrationsJune open for celebrations

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Letters toMy Lawyer

Dear Lawyer,

y daughter was recently arrested and is still in jail, hercase is serious and her attorney says she will be facingtime in prison. She has three young children who haveno other family but me. How can I go about, as thegrandparent, getting my grandchildren back in a pro-tected home where they feel safe and can’t be harmed?

Sincerely,Concerned grandmother

Dear Concerned grandmother,

If the mother of the children is going to be in jail for the fore-seeable future there are options that may be available to you.However, the first thing you should be aware of is that the fa-ther will have superior custodial rights to the minor childrenover any other relative. Therefore, if the father of the childrenrequest custody of them, it is likely the court will award himcustody, provided he is fit and it is deemed in the best interestof the children.

One option for you as a grandparent is to file a petition forcustody by an extended relative. This petition will request thecourt to award you temporary legal custody of the minor chil-dren until mother can resume custody. In such matter, notifi-cation should be made to the father or at least attempted ashe is an indispensable party to this action. This type of cus-tody is for a specific period of time, possibly until the childrenare 18 years old or until their mother is able to care for them.This would likely involve getting consent from your from bothmother and father or a court order awarding you custody.Once the order is in play you will be able to make decisionsregarding the children in the same way a parent would. Anattorney can assist you and your daughter in developing aparenting plan regarding the scope of your authority and theduration of custody.

Another option you may have is to legally adopt the children.This is the most permanent type of custody and you wouldacquire all of the legal rights of a birth parent. In essence, youbecome the children’s parent in the eyes of the law. More im-portantly, the biological parents would lose all legal rights tothe child including the right to inherit as descendant. This pro-cess may be more complex and will involve the biologicalparent’s parental rights being terminated through a court pro-ceeding. It is important to note that you will have to be foundsuitable to obtain custody or adopt the children by the stateand it can be a long and intrusive process, for which you shouldseek the assistance of an attorney.

This column is primarily for educational purposes as well as togive the reader general information and a general understandingof the law, not to provide any legal advice whatsoever. By readingthis column you understand that there is no attorney-client rela-tionship between you and writer/publisher. This column should notbe used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensedprofessional attorney. This column is not published for advertisingor solicitation purposes. The hiring of a lawyer is an importantdecision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

By Karlyn Hylton

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“I love you”By Rosemarie G. Roth

Whatever symbols we usethey all represent the samesentiment of love.

In February we celebrated Val-entines Day and we all pur-chased cards of wishes, flow-ers and candy to show thesweetness of our love for some-one special. Yet soon after the

day the decoration in the stores are taken down and the cardsare thrown out. A few got an engagement ring and June usu-ally becomes their wedding month of choice.

in here “For God so loved the world that he gave his one andonly Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish buthave eternal life.

God gave His one and only Son in exchange for us. Romans5:8 says this: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Look on whatGandhi said above about a friend giving his life for his friendsand enemies.

Recently I sang a song of my childhood “Jesus loves me this Iknow…” Whitney Houston sang it better with great convic-tion yet she suffered for years with addiction. Did God loveWhitney? “For great is Your love, higher than the heavens; Yourfaithfulness reaches to the skies.” Psalm 108:4 Yes God loved

her “…For the Bible tells me so.

We can finish the sentence “I love…” my car, my cat, my dog, icescream, my spouse, my child, myjob or money. Or better yet, let usleave an “I love you” commitmentlegacy for our children. The com-mitment is to share our culturalsimilarities and differences. I wasdrawn to a speech Dr. Ted Ridore,President of Cornerstone ChristianUniversity delivered at a church

where he recalls that he wrote his first letter “T” at age six-teen and in twenty four years he received a high school di-ploma, a bachelor, two masters and three PhD’s. He says, “ I

love education and I love to teach.” This is the legacy he isleaving to his children and his students. What legacy will weleave for our children?

Prayer of good over evil, light over dark-Hindi

Fill the Heart with the oil of love.Place in it the wick of single-pointed mind.

Light it with the Knowledge of Truth and removethe darkness of ignorance around you.

Just as one lamp can light many lamps; let eachyouth kindle this Light in many hearts.

Nelson Mandela: Imprisoned for 27 years for his op-position to apartheid, Mandela came out of prison in1990 expressing no bitterness towards his tormentors.Instead, he championed reconciliation among SouthAfrica’s polarized races, espousing the principles ofnation-building and cooperative governance.

“My wish is that South Africans never give up on thebelief in goodness, that they cherish that faith in hu-man beings as a cornerstone of our democracy.”

— Nelson Mandela’s www.southafrica.info

June is also hurricane season and Caribbean Heritage Month.“What’s love got to do with it?” Asked Tina Turner. Every-thing! June carried the news of Nelson Mandela’s hospital-ization and it became forefront“happening news” to the world.During this time the news reportedthat his family was with him dur-ing his time of treatment in thehospital and the president of SouthAfrica has asked the people to prayfor his recovery.

We can all identify with the anxi-ety that surrounds his family as theypray for his healing. His wife, hischildren, his grand children and hisgreat-grand children are all hoping, praying and wishing for arecovery. Not just to be healed but to be able to pass on addi-tional words of wisdom to guide them through life. They wantto hold onto as much precious time with him as possible. Theirpresence says, “I love you”.

Love is about actionIf you ask me I would tell you that God’s love is about action.St. John 3:16 is my ultimate favorite verse in the Bible. To God,the words “I love you” has a much deeper meaning than itdoes for us. One of the greatest illustration of His love is found

Known as ‘Mahatma’ (great soul), Gandhi was theleader of the Indian nationalist movement against Brit-ish rule, and is widely considered the father of his coun-try. His doctrine of non-violent protest to achieve po-litical and social progress has been hugely influential.“A man who was completely innocent, offered him-self as a sacrifice for the good of others, including hisenemies, and became the ransom of the world. It wasa perfect act.” “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”

— Mahatma Gandhi

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2 22 22 22 22 2

Indian Arrival Day CelebrationIndian Arrival Day CelebrationIndian Arrival Day CelebrationIndian Arrival Day CelebrationIndian Arrival Day Celebrationin South Floridain South Floridain South Floridain South Floridain South Florida

By Kamal AbdoolTrinidad and Tobago Diaspora 561 376 7251

n Saturday June 8th 2013 attended a won-derful Indian Arrival Day Event hosted bythe Consuls General of Guyana andTrinidad & Tobago. Informative, Entertain-ing and the opportunity to renew acquain-tances and make new friends.

This was Leadership in Motion as AnilRamnanan and his Guyanese counterpart,

Ramzan Ali, brought two Caribbean Familiestogether. I believe this is the first time in Florida

we’ve had a joint Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago Indian Ar-rival Day Celebration.

We must acknowledged the foresight of both Consuls Generalinsisting the celebration be held during Caribbean AmericanHeritage Month. Audience reflected the diversity of Florida’spopulation including local city Mayors and Florida State Rep-resentative Hazel Rogers.

The food was outstanding .... tasty, hot and generous portions.Kudos to Rena Mohammed and her Staff for an outstandingjob. Representing the Christian Community was Neil Dozierthe former Chicago and New York Jets footballer.

Gideon Hanoomansingh was at his glorious best ... recallingthe perils and endurance of the Crossing, the harsh beginningsof our ancestors adjusting to their new Homeland .... thenenunciating the joys of their sacrifice as their off springs roseto positions of Leadership & Influence.

The evening was punctuated by outstanding entertainmentincluding Terry Gajraj, Omadath Maharaj, Adesh Nandlal,Guyana’s Jumping Jack and the Jaya Devi Dance Troup led byDenise Baboolal.

Community Service Awards were given to Caribbean Citizens whopromoted Caribbean Business and Culture in Florida.

Finally, a special thank you to the Event Coordinators GabrianaPersad of the Trinidad and Tobago Consulate and Bharath &Seeta Boochoon for a truly superb job.

786-797-1728

Sacha & The Magic Cookie Company

Top Left: Kamal Abdool and friends

Top Right: Consul Generals RamzanAli & Dr. Ramnanan with Gideon

Hanoomansingh

Bottom Left: Kaye Chong ofCaribbean Airlines

Center: Guyanese celebrated 175years of Indian Arrivals to Guyanain 1838, Trinidad & Tobago seven

years later in 1845.

Bottom Right: Job Well done toboth Consul Generals on a jointcelebration of Indian Arrival Day

CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTHCARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTHCARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTHCARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTHCARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTHInfluential Caribbean -Americans in the history of the United States, includeJean Baptiste Point du Sable, the pioneer settler of Chicago; Claude McKay, apoet of the Harlem Renaissance; James Weldon Johnson, the writer of the BlackNational Anthem; Shirley Chisolm, the first African-American Congresswomanand first African-American woman candidate for President; and Celia Cruz,the world renowned queen of Salsa music; Alexander Hamilton, a foundingfather of the United States and the first Secretary of the Treasury, was born inthe Caribbean; many influential Caribbean -Americans in the history of theUnited States also include Colin Powell, the first African-American Secretary ofState; Sidney Poitier, the first African-American actor to receive the AcademyAward for best actor in a leading role; and the list goes on . . .

2 32 32 32 32 3

Guyanese CelebrateGuyanese CelebrateGuyanese CelebrateGuyanese CelebrateGuyanese CelebrateIndependence in MiamiIndependence in MiamiIndependence in MiamiIndependence in MiamiIndependence in Miami

epresentatives of Guyanese civic organizationsand business enterprises from across Floridagathered recently at the residence of Guyana’sHonorary Consul Ramzan Roshanali and Mrs.Roshanali to celebrate the 47th anniversaryof the country’s Independence. It was the first

time that such a gathering of Guyanese com-munity and business leaders from various cit-ies around the State took place and this pro-

vided an opportunity for them to get to know one another andexchange information about their activities.

The event which took the form of a cocktail reception, dinnerand dance was attended by a number of special guests includ-ing Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Mr.Irfaan Ali, former Guyana President Bharat Jagdeo and theMayor of the City of Miramar, Florida, Mrs. Lori Moseley.

Among the organizations taking part were the Guyanese Cul-tural Network of Tampa Bay, the Guyanese American CulturalAssociation of Central Florida, the Guyana Nurses Associationof Florida, the South Florida Guyanese Association, the Bish-ops’ High School Alumni Association Florida Chapter, the TaskForce for Guyana’s Youth, GT Lime, the Ex-Guyana DefenceForce Officers Association, the Guyana Relief Council, the LadyJags National Women’s Football team and the Guyanese Com-munity of Florida.

The business enterprises represented were Demerara Distill-ers Limited, Banks DIH, Laparkan Shipping, Hab Interna-tional, Trans Caribbean Shipping, Caribbean Airlines, DipconEngineering Services Ltd., Hibiscus Restaurant, Collision King-dom, The Highland Agency, Inc., and CanMark Printing,Singh’s Roti Shop and Caribbean American Passport of Cen-tral Florida.

The gathering heard a message from President DonaldRamotar and short speeches from Minister Ali and formerPresident Jagdeo.

Two civic organizations-Bishops High School Alumni Associa-tion Florida Chapter and the Guyanese American CulturalAssociation of Central Florida received awards from the GuyanaConsulate in Miami for their work in the Community. Bishops’in recognition of its ongoing commitment to education and tothe academic development of young people in Florida andGuyana and the GACACF in recognition of its contribution tothe preservation and promotion of Guyanese culture in Cen-tral Florida and to charitable causes in Guyana.

Two businesses -Demerara Distillers Limited and LaparkanShipping were also honored. DDL received an award for theirongoing support of the promotion of Guyana’s positive publicimage in Florida and Laparkan for their longstanding com-mitment and invaluable contribution to the activities of theGuyana and Caribbean Diaspora in Florida in preserving andadvancing their communities and charitable work. The awardswere presented by Honorary Consul Ramzan Roshanali.

Also receiving an award from the Consulate was Mr. WesleyKirton, in recognition of his resolute support and service to theGuyanese Diaspora in Florida. That award was presented byformer President Jagdeo.

Speaking on behalf of the organizations represented, Dr. KofiDalrymple of the Guyanese Cultural Network of Tampa Baythanked the Consulate for taking the initiative to bring togetherthe Guyanese community leaders, business leaders and localand Guyana government officials. It was an especially goodevening for Dr. Dalrymple and Minister Ali who recognizedeach other as old schoolmates at St. Stanislaus College andmembers of the school’s winning debating team.

2 42 42 42 42 4

live steel band and a Car-ibbean DJ. According toorganizers Creig Cam-acho and Tara Swaby, “Itwas our most successfulKiddies Carnival to dateand we cannot wait untilnext year”.

Fortunately we do not haveto wait until next year.Creig and Tara will bebringing the Kiddies Carni-val to this year’s CAHM Fes-tival at Lake Eola in Down-town Orlando on SundayJune 23rd. The kids will do

Kiddies Carnival a hit, Kiddies Carnival a hit, Kiddies Carnival a hit, Kiddies Carnival a hit, Kiddies Carnival a hit, Continued from page 1Continued from page 1Continued from page 1Continued from page 1Continued from page 1another short parade andthen head to the kiddiesarea with bounce houses,miniature horses and lotsmore. You must purchase acostume to participate inthe parade. The price is $40per costume. Anyone inter-ested in purchasing a mer-maid or pirate costume fortheir child (or sponsoringa costume for a child whocannot afford it) can contactCreig Camacho at Coco-bean Productions at 407-788-BEAN (2326) or creig@cocobean productions.com.

2 52 52 52 52 5

Immigration, Family, Wills & Trusts, Mediation1073 Willa Springs Drive, Suite 2029

Winter Springs. Florida 32708esquirebrown@nadinebrownpa,com

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407-678-2224Fax: 407-788-2225

Florida Supreme CourtCertified Family Mediator

solar energy demonstration projects and a business plancompetition to support further development of solar tech-nologies in the Caribbean.

• The Organization of American States (OAS), with fundingfrom the State Department, has worked in six Caribbeancountries to support renewable energy demonstrationprojects, technical assistance toward energy policy imple-mentation, and a feasibility study on possible electricity in-terconnection between St. Kitts and Nevis and Puerto Rico,a U.S. commonwealth. Participating countries includeAntigua & Barbuda, Dominica, the Dominican Republic,Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and St. Kitts & Nevis.

Building Strong, Capable and Transparent Institutions:

• The State Department and the U.S. Agency for InternationalDevelopment (USAID) is implementing numerous publicsector budget transparency, budget execution and tax ad-ministration initiatives in Haiti, Dominican Republic, andJamaica. In Jamaica, USAID partnered with the CustomsDepartment and Tax Administration on programs that havereduced drug trafficker’s abilities to move money and con-traband through the region.

• Treasury provides technical experts in tax administration,debt and financial management that are embedded in rel-evant finance ministries. There are currently 10 advisors inthe Caribbean.

• From 2009-2013, the Department of Agriculture sponsored75 Cochran Fellows from the Caribbean (including the Do-minican Republic) offering training in areas such as foodsafety, laboratory procedures, and animal health.

• Department of Labor assists Haitian apparel producers incomplying with national and international labor standardsso that they remain eligible for tariff benefits under U.S. pref-erential trade programs. A component of this project focuseson building the capacity of Haiti’s Ministry of Labor and So-cial Affairs so that this institution can more effectively carryout its role in enforcing labor law and advising producersand foreign investors on applicable legal frameworks for op-erating businesses in Haiti.

Investing in Human Capital:

• The Inter-American Foundation’s active portfolio in the Car-ibbean comprises 21 grants, with the IAF’s investment le-veraging an equal amount of funding from grantees andother partners. Grants support human capital and citizen-led initiatives in communities in Haiti, Belize, Jamaica andthe Dominican Republic in the areas of crop diversification,sustainable agricultural practices, and education for vul-nerable populations.

• The State Department, in a partnership with the OAS, sup-ports The Inter-American Social Protection Network, whichenables countries to share pioneering social protection strat-egies to fight poverty and strengthen safety nets for theirmost vulnerable and indigent citizens.

• USAID is supporting early grade reading, vocational train-ing for at-risk youth in the Dominican Republic, EasternCaribbean, and Jamaica, and disaster risk reduction activi-ties throughout the Caribbean that are aimed at saving lives,alleviating human suffering and reducing the social andeconomic impacts of natural disasters.

• On May 14, the Department of Labor announced a newcompetitive solicitation for a $10 million cooperative agree-ment for a project in the Dominican Republic that aims tosupport the Dominican Republic’s efforts to reduce child la-bor and improve working conditions in the agricultural sec-tor, including in the sugarcane sector and in productionsupply chains. The Department of Labor is also supportingresearch and capacity building activities to address childlabor in over 40 countries, including the Dominican Repub-lic and Haiti, as part of a four-year, $15 million project withthe ILO.

• Peace Corps volunteers in ten countries in the WesternHemisphere, including the Dominican Republic andSuriname, train volunteers and community partners on cli-mate change, natural resource management, energy effi-ciency, and renewable energy technologies, as well as miti-gation and adaptation to climate change. To date over8,000 citizens in the region have directly benefited fromPeace Corps volunteers.

United States Support for Economic GrowthUnited States Support for Economic GrowthUnited States Support for Economic GrowthUnited States Support for Economic GrowthUnited States Support for Economic Growthand Development in the Caribbean,and Development in the Caribbean,and Development in the Caribbean,and Development in the Caribbean,and Development in the Caribbean, Continued from page 7Continued from page 7Continued from page 7Continued from page 7Continued from page 7

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n Saturday May 11th, 2013, the Shri LakshmiNarayan Mandir (Hindu Church) heldtheir second Annual “Elevate!” Three onThree Charity Basketball Tournament atthe Mandir in Orlando (269 N KlondikeAve, Orlando, FL 32811). The event wasprimarily held to raise awareness about

domestic violence and also to promoteunity in a positive environment. Young

men ranging in age from 12 to 35 came to-gether in solidarity to strongly state that domestic abuse inany form is unacceptable. Proceeds from the event ben-efited the domestic violence charity, Harbor House of Cen-tral Florida.

Vasu T. Persaud was one of the organizers and had this to say,“Thank you to all the young men and women that support the

Elevate Basketball Tournament taking offElevate Basketball Tournament taking offElevate Basketball Tournament taking offElevate Basketball Tournament taking offElevate Basketball Tournament taking offtournament. This tournament is something different that al-lows everyone to have fun while uniting to support a positivecause.” Mr. Persaud hopes to use the universal appeal of sportsto provide a positive forum for young West Indians to have funand be rewarded for character traits like teamwork, respect,leadership, etc. through physical activity

Over the last year, the tournament organizers have discussedboth expanding the Elevate! Tournament and having otherevents such as volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. “Thefeedback has been very positive all around,” Vasu said, “we’rehoping that with continued support we can have larger uni-fying events involving other Mandirs and cultural groups inCentral Florida.

For more information on becoming involved in the Tournamenteither as a participant or coordinator, contact Vasu at 407-900-8076.

Team 3 & A Half Men -Most Improved Team

Team A & R Bakery - Most Valuable Player -Captin, Avinash Persaud

Team Tropic Thunder - Teamwork Winner

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