Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - Aug 2025
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Welcome to CAP Village
Our new home for Culture Arts & People. The Caribbean American Passport Multicultural Initiative (CAPMI) proudly announces the opening of CAP Village, a dynamic new 5,000 square foot space dedicated to fostering community development, engagement,andempowerment.
Located in the heart of the community, CAP Village is more than just a physical space, it's a vibrant hub where culture, creativity, and connection come together. Purposefully designed to support community outreach, arts, cultural expression, and impactful workshops, CAP Village serves as a launchpad for ideas,inspiration,andinclusion.
Whether you're a local artist, a small business owner, a cultural organization, or a community member seeking opportunities for growth, CAP Village offers an open, welcoming environment with resources and programs tailoredtoupliftandunite.
CAPVillagewillfocusonthefollowing 8Pillars-
-Health&Wellness
-Authors&Literature
-Fashion,DesignandtheCatwalk
-LifestyleEngagement
-Non-ProfitsOrganizations
-Entertainment&Culture
-BusinessDevelopment
-CommunityEngagement
15 Years of Bridging Cultures, Inspiring Generations
What started out as a simple The Caribbean American Passport News Magazine was originally launched to showcase the local Caribbean American organizations and small businesses in Orlando. The focus was to provide a platform for engagement, storytelling and Caribbean multiculturalcelebration...Cont'd on page 6
community, Central Florida Orlando based, news magazine in September of 2010 has now grown in a Worldwide engagement platform with readers and viewers from as far a Japan, Norway and the Caribbean following the websiteandonline.
Samuel J. Roberts, Publisher/Editor
L IF E S T Y L E
Honoring Our Pillars, and Shaping
Formorethan15years,theCaribbean American community has leaned on three enduring pillars, representation, community, and cultural preservation. These are not just lofty ideals, but the living, breathing foundation of our identity. They shape the way we see ourselves, the way we are seen by others, and the way future generations will carry forward the legacy of the Caribbean in America and across the world
Representation is powerful. To see oneself reflected in stories, media, leadership, and public life is to be validated and empowered. Too often, Caribbean voices have been underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream narratives. Our histories have been simplified, our identities overlooked, andourcontributionsundervalued.
But when we tell our own stories, when we highlight our leaders, our entrepreneurs, our artists, our athletes, and our innovators, we reclaim the narrative. Representation ensures that children of Caribbean descent can open a page, turn on a screen, or attend an event and recognize themselves, their families, and their heritage in what they see. It tells them that youbelong,youmatter,yourcultureisworthcelebrating.
If representation validates us, community strengthens us. Caribbean people have always thrived on unity, even while spread across islands, nations, and continents. Our sense of community is not bound by geography, it is alive wherever Caribbean people gather, whether in a small neighborhood event in Orlando, a Carnival parade in Miami, or aninternationalstagewhereourartistsperform.
Community means connection. It means that across generations, we share wisdom, laughter, resilience, culture, and resources. It is the neighbor who looks out for you, the family abroad who sends support, the young professional mentored by an elder. Community has always been our backbone, sustaining us in times of hardship and lifting us higher in times of triumph.
Cultural preservation may be the most vital. Our culture is our identity, and without it, we risk losing the essence of who we are. The rhythms of calypso, soca, dancehall, and reggae, the artistry of Carnival mas and steelpan, the flavors of jerk, roti, callaloo, and doubles, the languages and dialects that carry the stories of our ancestors, these are treasures we must never take forgranted.
Cultural preservation means more than celebration. It is about teaching the next generation where these traditions come from and why they matter. It is about embracing our heritage not as a relic of the past but as a living, evolving identity that continuestoinspirecreativity,innovation,andpride.
Our Future
As we look to the future, these pillars remain not only relevant but urgent. Our representation ensures that our people remain visible in a world that often erases difference. A strong community ensures that we remain connected in an era where isolation threatens to fragment us. We are our cultural and therefore preservation of our culture ensures that our heritage does not fade, but grows stronger as itadaptstonewgenerations.
The work of telling our stories, strengthening our bonds, and celebrating our culture is never done. It is a mission renewed with each generation, because identity is alive and thrives when nurtured. For the Caribbean American community, the charge is clear: hold fast to the pillars that carriedusthisfarandkeepthemstrongforthosetocome.
Fifteen years is a milestone, but also a reminder—that our culture, our community, and our representation are not fleeting trends, but enduring truths. They have guided us, andtheywillcontinuetolightthewayforward.
Our culture and stories are living truths that must be nurtured and renewed with every generation. They are the light that guides us forward, carrying our community with strength,pride,andpurpose.
1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828
Office: 407-427-1800 Fax: 407-386-7925
Toll Free: 877-220-8315
For Media Information email: Publisher: sroberts@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Info: .Info@caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Should you desire to review past copies of the publicationgo to http://caribbeanamericanpassport.com and click on the 'Print Archive'.
15 Years of Bridging Cultures, Inspiring Generations
To shed a more positive light on the Caribbean American community and the amazing stories that create the unique fabric that unifies us by culture, family, culture and community.
September 2025 marks a historic milestone as Caribbean American Passport News Magazine proudly celebrates 15 years of publishing. Since its founding, the magazine has served as a vibrant bridge between the Caribbean and American communities, highlighting culture, business, arts, politics, and people who are making a difference inCentralFloridaandbeyond.
From its very first issue, that showcase the Miami Broward One Carnival in 2010, Caribbean American Passport (CAP) set out to be more than a publication, and it became a movement of representation and connection. The magazine has consistently amplified Caribbean voices, celebrated cultural traditions, and provided valuable resourcesforresidentsandbusinessesalike.
CAP News Magazine, as it’s called, shared thousands of stories featuring Caribbean and multicultural leaders,artists,entrepreneurs,andchangemakers.
The original issue was published with 1,000 copies being printed and distributed across Orlando and Central Florida, however, within the first week after the release another 3,000 copies were printed just to try to keep up withthedemand.
The publication quickly expanded the print circulation to 4,000 copies monthly within the first year and to 5,000 copies by 2011. In August of 2013, with the expanding and growing demand, the print circulation expanded to 10,000 copies per month and into a STATEWIDE circulation. By the summer of 2015, in response to demand, circulation increase to 20,000 copies per month with a STATEWIDE distribution network of offices, restaurants, barbershops, business offices and locallibraries.
In 2020, based on the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic andthedrasticdropincirculationcausedbythe‘
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Stay-at-Home’ order and to continue to support our readers, our advertisers and our followers, the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine management made a major investment, and a re-focusing, into the digital media exchange. This was the first step into the digitalplatformsofengagement.
Caribbean American Passport News Magazine has now expanded its reach beyond print into a robust digital network, connecting readers across Facebook, Instagram,TikTok,X(formerlyTwitter),andYouTube.
Caribbean American Passport News Magazine now provides a platform for small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and political campaigns to connectdirectlywithCaribbeananddiverseaudiences.
In 2025 came the birth on CAP Village in Fashion Square Mall.
CAP Village: Building Stronger Communities -
One of the magazine’s proudest expansions is the creation of CAP Village, a dynamic hub for vendors, businesses, artists, and cultural organizations. CAP Village represents the magazine’s mission in action, bringing people together to support entrepreneurship, showcase culture, and strengthencommunityties.
Looking Ahead - As Caribbean American Passport celebrates its 15th anniversary, the vision remains strong: to inform, inspire, and connect communities while preserving and elevating Caribbean culture in America. The next chapter promises even more innovation in media, stronger partnerships, and a continued commitment to giving voice to the Caribbean American experience.
“Fifteen years is just the beginning,” says the CAP team. “We are honored to serve as a trusted voice for our community, and we look forward to the next 15 years of telling our stories, celebrating our heritage, and creating impact together.”
Caribbean Elections Spotlight: Jamaica and Guyana at the Crossroads of Democracy
The political spotlight is on Jamaica and Guyana as both countries prepare for crucial elections poised to shapetheireconomies,societies,andregionalstanding.
In Jamaica,the discourse is heating up over persistent issues like inflation, unemployment, crime, and social inequality. The incumbent JamaicaLabour Party (JLP) champions stability, economic growth, and continued leadership, while the opposition People’s National Party is calling for reforms aimed at addressing inequality and strengthening social services. Voters are closely evaluating pledges for improved healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Analysts point out that voter turnout will be pivotal, as history shows it can dramatically impact election
By Israel Torres
The ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) seeks a renewed mandate, touting investments in infrastructure and social services, while rising opposition parties emphasize accountability, inclusive growth, and responsible development. Observers view this election as a key test of the government’s ability to quickly and equitably convert
Guyana’s election, meanwhile, is attracting global attention due to the nation’s remarkable economic change spurred by its burgeoning oil industry.Managing oil wealth, promoting transparency, and ensuring fair distributionarechiefconcernsforGuyanesevoters.
These elections underscore a broader Caribbean trend: citizens now prioritize concrete outcomes and good governance over traditional party loyalties. Issues like economic pressures, accessibility of public services, and government transparency are at the forefront for voters. Experts add that the results could impact regional collaboration on trade, climate action, and energypolicy.
For Jamaicans and Guyanese alike, the stakes are significant. Leadership, economic direction, and social policy hang in the balance. As election day nears, both the region and the wider international community are watching, aware that these decisions reflect the region’s aspirationsandchallenges.
So through di dancing, di parade, an di speech dem, di people mek dem voice loud. An when di count done, di majority choose di party weh dem feel bring real change fi di past decade one choice full a hope fi di future a dis beautiful island. Now Hima head to St vincent.
The CAP wake up wid pure excitement inna him heart. today hima leave guyana and head to Jamaica fi witness di final moments a di election. When him reach, him glad fi see somet’ing rare an sweet both party a celebrate side by side, music a play, people a dance, an laughter a fill di street, even though di rivalry an debate did hot before. Even wid all di negative talk weh did a fly roun’ during di campaign,
By Israel Torres
CAFA Celebrate 35 Years of Service
The idea to form an association in Central Florida came about during a trip to the beach in 1990. The group was comprised of: Peter Ayres, Everette Bentham, Tifanie Brathwaite, Sylvia Hypolitte, Robert Huggins, Eileen & Stokely Jack, Marlon Moffat, Diane Neblett, Conrad Randolph, Judy Randolph, Mike & Joan Randolph, June Wilson and Hollis Williams – decided that there was dire need of an association. It would assist and welcome new arrivals to Central Florida, particularly those with Caribbean backgrounds. Its members, not only those with a Caribbean background, would be involved in all aspects of the community – culturally, politically and educationally.
In September 1990, the first meeting attended by members of the group and 0ther like- minded residents of Central Florida, was held in a church on Smith Street in Kissimmee. Since its formation in 1990, many individuals have benefited from its services, programs and events.
In December 1991 the Association was incorporated. The By-Laws were ratified in 1994 and in 1998 it became a 501 (c) (3) corporation.
The first Executive Committee members were:
Stokely A. Jack - President
Marlon Moffat - Treasurer
Conrad Randolph - 1st Vice President
Hollis Williams - Secretary
Everette Bentham - 2nd Vice President
Peter Ayres - Chaplain
From its inception, CAFA has focused its programs and activities on achieving two broad objectives. The first is to impact the community in positive ways by addressing needs that will have a lasting effect on those whose lives have been touched by CAFA’s outreach efforts. The second is to build and develop a membership community where members can experience a deep sense of fellowship, camaraderie and belonging and become involved in activities that strengthen connections with family and friends.
Educational Awards Banquet: Over the years CAFA has awarded over 175 scholarships to graduating seniors in a dollar amount of over $70,000 at our Annual Education Banquet. Some of these graduates have gone on to become attorneys, doctors, dentists, engineers, teachers, etc. and are very productive citizens of the community.
Caribbean Fusion in Kissimmee: The "Fusion Festival" in Kissimmee refers to the annual family-friendly event celebrating Caribbean culture through music, dance, food, and arts at Kissimmee Lakefront Park. the festival brings the community together to experience a vibrant mix of island music like Soca and reggae, authentic Caribbean cuisine, and various cultural performances. It has been sponsored since 2010 by CAFA when the City of Kissimmee was no longer able to host this event. This festival has become the signature annual event for the City of Kissimmee and is attended by over 9,000 people.
Health fairs sponsored by CAFA have provided education on preventive medicine, offer free health screenings for early detection of health issues, and connect people with local healthcare services and resources. These health fairs have served diverse audiences, offering practical health information to children and seniors, Over the years thousands of people in the community have been impacted.
Charitable drives at “Give Kids the World” CAFA has joined many other organizations in raising contributions tomakeadifferenceinthelivesofdisadvantagedkids.Our passionate volunteers contribute their time and talent helping to create priceless memories for children with criticalillnessesandtheirfamilies
Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive: CAFA’s annual drives have been a benefit to the Kissimmee community and the Boys and Girls Club since 2017. Over the years CAFA has distributedover4,000turkeys.
Visits to community Nursing Homes at Christmas: This event is an outreach effort to distribute gifts and bring joy to the residents of Nursing Homes. CAFA members have been deeply touched to see the gratitude of residents who see this an opportunity to share in the joy and spirit of the season with those who are kind enough to reach out to them. This activity offers a meaningful opportunity to bringwarmthandjoytotheirlives.
Support sister organizations and civic programs: Based on CAFA’s commitment to community service, it has remained willing and ready to join with other community service organization and civic programs to improve the qualityoflifeintheKissimmeecommunity.
Hurricane Relief Drives - CAFA has worked through the years with other organizations in the community to organize hurricane disaster relief for the Caribbean islands that contribute thousands of dollars in relief supplies for thebenefitofaffectedvictims.
Family Day Bus Outing: Our first bus ride was in 1994 and it has become an annual event. Over the years countless number of family and friends of CAFA have enjoyed this day at Ft. De Soto
Biannual Cruise to the Caribbean and Other Destinations: The first cruise was in 1996. Some of the destinations were: Aruba, Barbados, Bahamas, Bermuda, Costa Rica, Grand Cayman, St. Thomas and Canada. Members of CAFA and their friends and family have lasting memories of these excursions.
Annual Family Day Picnic for family and friends: Locations alternate between Kissimmee and Orlando. It is usually a day for food and fun and games for CAFA’s family, friends and their children.
Our Motto is “EACH ONE TELL ONE
CAFA will remain steadfast in its commitment to be a unifying force between the Caribbean and other communities in Florida, and be active in the cultural, educational and civic development of the community
Leah T. Williams
Originally from St. Kitts, Leah T. Williams is an author and educator living in Central Florida. Her debut novel, Neither Out Far Nor In Deep, explores themes of identity and belonging, inspired by her Caribbean upbringing and her experiences as a teacher. During her interview, Leah reflected on creativity as a tool for empowerment and highlighted her initiative Black Girls Day Off, which uplifts and celebrates Black girls. Her writing and advocacy both reflect her commitment to community and cultural pride.
Lynda R. Edwards
Born in Dominica, Paula Loblack is a best-selling author, pastor, and deliverance counselor with over 30 years of experience guiding people through healing and transformation. Her books reflect her personal story of resilience to guide her mission to help others overcome fear, depression, and broken relationships. In our interview, Paula spoke about faith, self-discovery, and the ways writing can inspire change—conversations deeply connected to her Caribbean roots and global ministry.
Want to hear more?
Jamaican author Lynda R. Edwards brings the richness of her island’s storytelling tradition into every novel she writes. From her first novel Redemption Songs to Friendship Estate and I Am Cuba, her books weave romance, history, mystery, and magical realism into narratives that honor Caribbean heritage while imagining new possibilities. In our conversation, she spoke about Jamaica’s history, family legacies, and the importance of reexamining colonial impacts—offering powerfulinsightsintohow literature preserves culture whilesparkingdialogue.
Also hailing from Jamaica, Dale Mahfood is an educator and author whose Wood and Water Saga explores the complexity of Caribbean life and history. With roots in Kingston and experiences spanning London and the U.S., Dale’s writing reflects both a global perspective and a deep love for his island heritage. In his interview, Dale shared his passion for storytelling, his writing style, and the role of writing in connecting communities across generations. His upcoming novel, Up From Mountains, continues this literaryjourney.
WatchthefullinterviewsonCAPVillage’sYouTubechannelandvisitourpagefor updates. We film new author conversations every Saturday—if you’re an author interested in sharing your story, CAP Villageisreadytowelcomeyou!
Paula Loblack
Dale Mahfood
Guyana Day at CAP Village
By Israel Torres
Health & Wellness
TREE of LIFE
by Israel Torres Nurse Practitioner now changing lives
For years, Jascinth Brown, a dedicated Nurse Practitioner, witnessed the long-term effects of conventional medications on her patients. She saw how prolonged pharmaceutical treatments often led to serious complications, with some patients ultimately requiring dialysis as a result of ongoing health struggles. These experiences sparked a determination withinhertoseekabetterwayforward.
Drawing on her clinical expertise, professional training, and deep understanding of medicine, Brow began exploring holistic and natural solutions that could address health concerns without causing additional harm. Her goal was to provide safe, effective alternatives for patients who wanted totakecontroloftheirhealthandwell-being.
That vision became a reality through Tree of Life, Brown’s line of natural products designed to support wellness and preventative care. Each product reflects her medical background combined with a passion for holistic healing, offering people an option beyond the limitations of traditionaltreatmentplans.
Brown’s approach is grounded in both science and compassion. She believes that true healing begins by addressing the root causes of illness, not just the symptoms, and by empowering people to make healthier choices for their bodies and their lives. Through Tree of Life, she has been able to merge her medical knowledge with a mission to helpcommunitiesthrive.
Today, Tree of Life continues to grow, giving people access to natural remedies backed by medical expertise and a commitment to better health outcomes. For Brown, this work is more than a business—it’s a movement toward a future where health care embraces both modern science and thehealingpowerofnature.
The Center for Multicultural Wellness & Prevention (CMWP) is a Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to enhancing health, wellness, and quality of life across diverse communities.
Through culturally informed outreach, educational initiatives, and partnerships, CMWP seeks to bridge gaps in access to health care services, especially for underserved and multilingual populations in Central Florida.
A signature event in CMWP’s calendar is its annual health summit, which in 2025 will take the form of the 22nd Annual CommunityHealthSummit.
Theme: “Take Charge of Your Health” — a call for personal empowerment in health management and preventivecare.Purpose&Offerings:
•Provide free health screenings and diagnostic tests to attendees
•Distribute educational resources and facilitate connectionstolocalhealthandsocialserviceproviders
•Promote awareness of mental health, chronic disease prevention, and “financial fitness” as a social determinantofhealth
Parramore Street sprang to life this weekend as artists from across Floridacovered walls with vibrant murals designed to sparkconversationsaboutfoodinsecurityinAmerica.
The street art festival was made possible through a $1 million donation from Bloomberg Art Pollination, a national initiative that funds creative projects addressing pressingsocialissues.
To reinforce the message, the first 100 visitors received free bagged lunches provided by Plate Above Catering and the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. The meals symbolized the Orlando community's ability to come togethertofeedneighborsinneed.
Throughout the day, visitors walked along Church Street, stopping to watch as artists brought their visions to life. The murals varied in style, but many carried messages of resilience, hope and shared responsibility. Bright colors, bold strokes and interactive designs invited passersby to pauseandreflect.
The event also tied into Orlando’s 150th birthday celebration,ayearlongseriesofeventshonoringtheCity's
ByLesleyCorreia
history and the people who built it. The event highlights the pillars of our city: culture and community.BringingthespiritofOrlando’sanniversary.
Residents and visitors alike lingered well into the afternoon, taking photos, talking with artists and sharing meals. For some, the murals became more than art, they became reminders of the challenges many families face dailyandthecollectiveeffortittakestoaddressthem.
MCO Means Business
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is enhancing its marketing to position itself as a major global gateway and the first impression of Central Florida. With over 58 million annual passengers, the airport’s new campaigns focus on making MCO more than just a stopover, aiming to reflect Orlando’s world-class attractions, friendly hospitality, andbusinessopportunities.
A key part of the strategy is digital engagement. MCO is increasing its presence on social media, upgrading mobile services, and introducing travelerfriendly features like real-time flight tracking and quick check-in.
These innovations are designed to make navigating the airport easierwhile keeping passengers connected andinformed from arrivaltodeparture.
MCO is also building stronger partnerships with tourism organizations, local attractions, hotels, and convention centers. Sustainability and community involvement are key marketing themes, with efforts to highlight the airport's green initiatives and commitment to giving back. Airport leaders say their goal is to make every traveler feel a sense of Central Florida's excitement and warmth the momenttheyarrive.
Business Connect
His ESSENCE is ESSENTIAL!
Last month, CAP Village’s Business Connect had the distinct honor of hosting Jonathan Blount, the visionary founder who launched ESSENCE magazine at just 22 years old. What began in 1970 as a groundbreaking publication for Black women has since grown into a cultural cornerstone, shaping media, representation, and storytellingformorethanfivedecades.
As ESSENCE celebrates its 55th anniversary, Blount shared his remarkable journey with the audience—from the moment his godmotherencouraged him to start a magazine for black women, to serving as the company’s chairman and president during its formative years. Under his leadership, ESSENCE achieved a historicmilestone, becoming one of the first African
AmericanbusinessestoearnitsfirstmilliondollarsonWall Street. With credentials reaching back to his days as a freedom fighter, Jonathan Blount has consistently championed progress and empowerment within the Black community. His work has extended far beyond the pages of ESSENCE, contributing significantly to the growth of Black-owned businesses and nonprofit organizations nationwide.
Blount’s dedication and leadership make him a powerful exampleforfuturegenerations,provingthatvision,courage, and commitment can create lasting change. As a very important member of our village and a staple in Black culture and our community, Blount often spends time at CAP Village during our Business Connect events. He is deeply committed to helping new business owners reach newheightsbyofferingprofessionalinsight,lifelessons,and invaluablenetworkingadvice.
THURSDAYS
Caribbean Music Awards 2025: Honoring Rhythm, Identity, and Excellence
The Caribbean has given the world some of its most enduring and influential sounds. From calypso and reggae to soca, dancehall, zouk, chutney, and kompa, these genres represent more than entertainment. are stories of resilience, cultural pride, and community that have shaped identities across generations and influenced the soundscape of global music. The Caribbean Music Awards celebrate the artists, producers, and cultural leaders who carry this tradition forwardwhileopeningnewcreativehorizons.
The Caribbean Music Awards have become one of the most important platforms for recognizing and honoring Caribbean talent. Established to provide a dedicated space for celebrating the music of the region and its diaspora, the awards are both a red-carpet spectacle and a cultural gathering. They highlight the contributions of legendary pioneers and rising stars, ensuring that the voices of the past remain connected to the artists of today.
By Wendy Roberts
The 2025 ceremony took place at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York. Broadcast on BET, the event captured global attention with a showcase of live performances, moving tributes, and a star-studded guest list that reflected the region’s extraordinary diversity. The evening reminded audiences that Caribbean music is not defined by a single sound but by its ability to evolve while remainingdeeplytiedtoitsculturalroots.
One of the most memorable highlights was the success of Shenseea, who emerged as the top winner. She walked away with five awards, including the coveted Female Artist of the Year. Her achievements underscored the international impact of contemporary dancehall and the growing influence of young female voices in the genre. Other award recipients represented the wide spectrum of Caribbean music, from reggae and soca to fusion styles thatcontinuetoexpandthereachoftheregion’ssound.
The ceremony also featured tributes to legendary artists who have laid the foundation for Caribbean music. These moments reminded the audience of the powerful role the region’s music has played as social commentary, as a tool of resistance, and as a universal call for unity and celebration. From the calypso icons of Trinidad to the prophets of reggae in Jamaica, the tributes underscored that the music of the Caribbean is both a cultural inheritanceandacontinuingglobalforce.
In addition to honoring performers, the awards also recognized the contributions of producers, arrangers, and culturaladvocateswhoensurethatCaribbeanmusic
reaches audiences worldwide. By shining a light on the creative professionals who work behind the scenes, the Caribbean Music Awards emphasize that music is a collaborative art form supported by an entireecosystemoftalent.
The choice of Brooklyn as the host city was especially meaningful. Home to one of the largest Caribbean diaspora communities in North America, Brooklyn has long been a cultural hub where traditions are preserved, shared, and adapted. Holding the awards at Kings Theatre affirmed the central role of the diaspora in keeping Caribbean culture vibrant and visible. Broadcasting the ceremony on BET further expanded the reach, ensuring that Caribbean excellence was celebrated on an internationalstage.
Essential Maintenance for Hurricane Season
As hurricane season approaches, Florida homeowners know that preparation is more than just stocking up on bottled water and batteries—it’s about making sure your property is ready to withstand strong winds and heavy rain. While no one can control the path of a storm, proper lawn, landscape, and home maintenance can significantlyreducepotentialdamageandcostlyrepairs.
Overgrown or weakened trees are one of the biggest hazards during a storm. Dead branches can easily become airborne projectiles, damaging roofs, cars, and windows. Even healthy trees with thick canopies should be pruned to reduce wind resistance. A professional tree trimmingservicecanidentifyweaklimbs,thinoutdense branches, and remove dead wood before it becomes dangerous.
Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up, leading to roof leaks and foundation damage. Before the heavy rains arrive, make sure gutters are cleared of leaves, pine needles, and other debris. Also, check that yard drains and stormwater pathways are unobstructedtopreventfloodingaroundyourhome.
Patio furniture, grills, yard decorations, and even garbage cans can turn into dangerous projectiles in high winds. Either store them in a garage or shed before a stormorensuretheyareanchoredsecurely.
Loose shingles or tiles should be repaired now, before hurricane-force winds have a chance to rip them off completely.Similarly,fenceswithweakpostsorpanels
can collapse and cause additional damage during storms. A quick inspection and repair can save thousands in futurereplacementcosts.
If you own a pool, lower the water level slightly (but don’t drain it) and turn off electrical equipment before a storm hits. For lawns, keep grass cut and landscaping tidy, which not only improves drainage but also reduces loosedebristhatcanclogstormwatersystems.
From checking window seals to ensuring garage doors are reinforced, small maintenance tasks can make a big difference. A hurricane is not the time to discover that your windows leak or that your garage door isn’t windrated.
Hurricane preparation isn’t just about supplies—it’s about prevention. By trimming trees, clearing drains, securing outdoor items, and addressing small home repairs now, you’ll minimize your risk and protect your investmentwhenstormsarrive.
NATIONAL ENTREPRENEUR CENTER
TheNationalEntrepreneurCenter(NEC)wasfoundedin 2003 through a partnership between Walt Disney World, Orange County Government, and the University of Central Florida. Originally launched as the Disney Entrepreneur Center, it moved to Orlando Fashion Square Mall in 2011 to expand its reach and impact.
The NEC’s mission is to support, develop, and grow small businesses through collaboration with a diverse network of nonprofit partners. Its vision is to make Central Florida a model region for entrepreneurship, providing free or low-cost business coaching, training, networking, and access to resources so that every entrepreneur has a pathway to success.
During a recent visit to CAP Village, NEC President Belinda Ortiz Kirkegard shared insights about the center’s mission and the many services it offers entrepreneurs and small business owners.
With more than 20 years of service, the NEC has facilitated nearly 3,000 loans valued at over $3 empowering thousands of business owners to launch, grow, and thrive. Today, it stands as a vital hub for innovationandeconomicgrowthinCentralFlorida.
Caribbean Roots, British Leadership: David Lammy Breaks Barriers
By Wendy Roberts
Prime Minister Keir Starmer appointed David Lammy as the United Kingdom's new Deputy Prime Minister, while he continues his dual responsibilities as Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor. This announcement marks not only a change in government leadership but also a groundbreakingmilestoneinBritishpoliticalhistory.
David Lammy is now the first Black person to hold the office of Deputy Prime Minister in the UK. For Britain, this is a powerful statement about progress and representation at the highest levels of governance. For the Caribbean diaspora, however, it resonates far more deeply. Lammy’s story is rooted in heritage, migration, and perseverance. He is the son of Guyanese immigrants, David and Rosalind Lammy, who left their homeland in search of a brighter future. Their determination and values laid the foundation for their son’s rise from North London to the very heart of Britishpower.
Growing up in Tottenham, Lammy faced the challenges that many children of immigrant families experienced: limited opportunities, social inequality, and the weight of expectations to succeed. Yet those very challenges sharpened his resolve. He excelled academically, earning a scholarship to study law at Harvard University — becoming the first Black Briton to do so. His legal training, combined with his passion for justice and equity, propelled him into politics, where he quickly became known as a strong voice for fairness, social mobility, and multicultural Britain.
As Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor, Lammy has already played a pivotal role in advancing discussions on reforming the criminal justice system, strengthening community trust in law enforcement, and ensuring equal access to opportunity. In his new capacity as Deputy Prime Minister, he is expected to bring that same vision and dedication to broader areas of government, from foreign relations to economic developmentandsocialcohesion.
Since entering Parliament in 2000 as one of its youngest MPs, Lammy has championed issues affecting disadvantaged communities, worked tirelessly on justice reform, and spoken out against systemic inequalities. His ability to bridge political, cultural, and social divides made him one of the most respected figures in the Labour Party. Now, with his appointment as Deputy Prime Minister, his influence extends even further, giving him a direct hand in shapingthedirectionofthenation.
For Guyana and the wider Caribbean community, Lammy’s achievement is not just a personal success story — it is a shared victory. It demonstrates how the Caribbean spirit, carried by generations of migrants, continues to enrich and shape societies across the globe. His rise reflects the resilience of Caribbean people, whose contributions to culture, politics, education, and public life are now being recognizedontheworldstage.
Lammy himself often credits his heritage for instilling in him the values of perseverance and identity. His parents’ migration story mirrors that of countless Caribbean families who left home to build new lives abroad. The sacrifices they made and the traditions they carried with them provided a strong foundation for their children. Today, that legacy stands symbolically at No.10 Downing Street, serving as inspiration not only for British-Caribbean youth but also for thewiderglobaldiaspora.
The significance of his appointment reaches far beyond the UK. It signals to the Caribbean and other diaspora communities worldwide that heritage and identity can be sources of empowerment, not limitation. Lammy’s presence in the highest corridors of power sends a clear message: leadership is not confined by race, origin, or background. It is defined by service, integrity, and the abilitytoinspireprogress.
For many, seeing a son of Guyanese immigrants rise to such a prestigious office is both a reminder of how far the Caribbean community has come and an encouragement for how much further it can go. His appointment is not only historic but symbolic — a beacon of possibility for young people who aspire to shape their societies while holding firmly to the pride of theirroots
David Lammy’s journey is a testament to the enduring strength of Caribbean heritage, the transformative power of education, and the unyielding belief that no dream is too distant. His presence in No.10 Downing Street embodies the progress of a nation and the pride of a diaspora — a reminder that Caribbean voices continue to shape the narrative of leadership and identityacrosstheworld.
Miami Carnival: A Celebration of Culture, Unity, and Diaspora Pride
Every October, South Florida explodes with color, music, and energy as Miami Carnival takes center stage. More than a festival, it is a cultural movement that connects generations of the Caribbean diaspora to their ancestral traditions while introducing new audiences to the artistry and creativity of Carnival. Since its modest beginnings in the mid-1980s, organized by Caribbean immigrants determined to keep mas, pan, and calypso alive, Miami Carnival has grown into one of North America’s premier cultural showcases, attracting tens of thousands of revelers fromaroundtheglobe.
Over the decades, the festival has expanded into a full weekend of events including J’Ouvert, Panorama, Junior Carnival, and the Parade of the Bands. These celebrations honor Carnival’s emancipation roots, through traditional characters like Jab Molassie and Dame Lorraine, while also embracing modern spectacle with glittering costumes, elaborate mas designs, and world-class performances. The thunder of steelbands, the joy of J’Ouvert at sunrise, and the artistry of mas camps all come together to create an experience that is both deeply cultural and universally captivating.
By Wendy Roberts
Miami Carnival also carries major economic and social impact. Local businesses, vendors, DJs, designers, and cultural entrepreneurs thrive during the festival, while visitors fill hotels and restaurants across South Florida. For many, it is the highlight of the year: a stage to showcase creativity, strengthen community ties, and celebrate Caribbeanheritagewithpride.
Economically, the festival plays a vital role in South Florida. It attracts visitors from across the globe, filling hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. Designers, DJs, mas camps, vendors, and cultural entrepreneurs rely on Carnival for both exposure and livelihood. For many, it represents the highlight of the year, offering a stage to display their artistry and connect with audiences who understandthedepthofitsculturalsignificance.
Caribbean American Passport News Magazine is proud to support Miami Carnival by sharing its stories and celebrating its cultural impact. Through media coverage and features, the magazine has highlighted the artistry and heritage of the event, ensuring that audiences near and far recognizetheimportanceofthisannualcelebration.
More than Music: DJ Khaled and the Rise of Caribbean Unity
DJ Khaled has long embraced the Caribbean, but this year he’s taken that bond further—usinghis music,visuals, and collaborations to celebrate reggae, dancehall, and soca on aglobalstage.
One of his boldest moves is You Remind Me, a dancehall anthem featuring Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Vybz Kartel, Mavado, RoryStoneLove, and Kaylan Arnold. Blending nostalgic island rhythms with modern production, the track and its vibrant video serve as a love letter to the region. Fans were especially struck by the reunion of Kartel and Mavado, an iconic cultural moment Khaledproudlyamplifiedworldwide.
Khaled'supcomingalbumAalamofGod,whichhecalls
his "Black Album", continues this mission, uniting stars like Rihanna, Drake, and Burna Boy with reggae and dancehall legends. For Caribbean artists, it's both recognition of their global impact and a platform to reach newaudiences.
His connection also shows in playful ways, like Rihanna teasing his mango-cutting skills, or his public calls for a Jamaican passport. Beyond the jokes, Khaled credits the Caribbean for shaping his sound, his outlook, and his vision.
Through blockbuster collaborations and cultural celebration, Khaled isn't just drawing from Caribbean music, he's elevating it. As he often says, it's more than music
AI OF WE, WHO META?
When my colleague Kam told me about Meta, I thought he was talking about one of the fancy women he hanged on to and spent lots of time with. As I told him, “Listen man, I know you’re into Meta types of women, but I prefer ‘ladies’ of substance and class so you can keep your Meta because mine are much, much better.” He laughed loudly and asked, “So why you want me to help you now with Meta and not Rita or even Peter?” I explained, “Well I got the shock of my life. I was on WhatsApp in my phone, and you know how many people call me or send me notes and jokes and stuff, then the next thing I see is something called Meta, and it is not your girlfriend, it is something with the name Meta. Was that a joke you dropped on me, or is it one of your computer tricks that you’re always trying on me and our friends?” Next thing I knew, he started to tell me about “Artificial intelligence” and how much it makes a difference. He say it as a technology that helpsustodesignthingslikecarsthatdrivethemselves.”
Meta Al And The Ancient Mariner
That was it for me. What I was upset about was that when I opened my WhatsApp, I am increasingly finding something thatissomekindofbosscalledMetaAl,ormessagesgratedby Al from Meta with what was called “Mute notifications” and worse, “Default” or what seems to be “Alert” up to ten options. I’ve had columns, computers, and all kinds of phones but mainly “DIGICEL.” For more than fifty-years, I had them. Now, to see that I was not just Chat, but I had more than Meta and worse, catching my Al and watching them day after day, was too much for me. I can’t speak about my friends because some of them were the ones who sent me whatever they asked for from Meta Al to drop on me, not with their words, or even a “Hey Tony,”. What they did was not all but Al, and it was who, or what, said whatever was supposedly sent by my colleagues to me. If I was responsible for either the computer, or WhatsApp, that would have been the end of them or, in other words, Al of them would have been gone for good. Or so I taught. In the famous line of Samuel Taylor Coleridge poem, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” we hear, “Water, water everywhere, and not a drop to drink.” For my friends in Trinidad, and in the Caribbean, there were man days, weeks, and even months over years when there was “not a drop to drink.”Inmycomputerorphone,Algonewiththewink.
Men vs Women: A Battle Nobody Wins
This is the kind of lime, and life, I lived in for so many years that I knew exactly what caught me in this mess. Having lived with my father and mother in places where men had outside wives, and wives also had other men but kept it quiet, I was always interested in the humour and what we all knew as the “Men vs Women”, especially who was winning and who was losing. While we knew, or so we thought, that the women were ahead of the men, we still liked to know “who did what to whom with what.” I reached out to my friend Kam to tell him what I was up to, and he agreed that it was an extremely great idea. I told him about what had happened to WhatsApp and he said, “Well boy, the time is changing you know. You have to join the group.” I slammed the phone and went back to this column. Within a few minutes I got a note on my WhatsApp from Kam. Thinking that he was apologizing, I opened it and this is what I got! My friend Kam had sent me a “lighthearted” article by Meta Al using the “spirit” of my columns of over 50 years of sharp humour and Caribbean wit on the timeless subject of men versus women. It started with, “Men vs Women:ABattleNobodyWins.”Obviously,Ihadlost.
By Tony Deyal
Eve Was The Boss of All Bosses
This was the Meta Al article supposing to be me: Long before Adam looked at Eve and said, "Darling I am hungry?" and Eve replied, "So what you have in the fridge?", men and women were always at war. Not the kind with guns and bombs, but the ones with silent treatment, sarcastic remarks, and the occasional flying frying pans. Take for example, shopping. A man enters a store like a heat-seeking missile. He knows what he wants, he locks in, and he’s out before the credit card machine can say “declined.” A woman, however, treats shopping like an Olympic sport. She can spend three hours in the store, not buy a single thing, and still come out smiling like she won gold in window-shopping. Men call it torture, women call it “browsing.” Then there’s the GPS problem. If a man gets lost, he will drive around in circles until the car runs out of gas, the marriage runs out of patience, and the children grow up and leave home. Ask for directions? Never. Women, on the other hand, will stop at every stranger on the road, even the ones who look like they’re wanted by police, just to ask the way. And somehow, they get there beforetheman."
Communication
Is Not Enough To Deal With Women
Meta Al continued: Communication is another battleground. A man will say, “I’m fine” and mean exactly that. A woman will say, “I’m fine” and mean anything from “You better apologize in the next ten seconds” to “Start digging your own grave.” The poor man, thinking he’s safe, will go back to watching TV and then wonder why the woman is suddenly plotting like a Bollywood villain. But the real difference is memory. Women never forget. A man may forget his anniversary, his children’s birthdays, even his own middle name. A woman remembers what he said at 7:42 p.m. on the 12th of May 2003, while wearing the blue shirt with the missing button. In fact, women have better storage than iCloud and no “delete” button. At the end of the day, though, it’s not really a war. It’s more like a comedy show with two headliners who refuse to leave the stage. Men think women are impossible. Women think men are hopeless. And somehow, both are right. As one married man told me, “I don’t try to win arguments with my wife anymore. I just nod, smile, and pray she doesn’t check my browser history. And that is why most men, as well as women, will never truly be equal. Because if they were, then who would bewrongallthetime?”
My Friend Kam And The Woman's Neck
Then, to make it worse, Kam said he was not too happy about the Met Al ending and asked me what I thought. Before I could tell him exactly what I felt about this, that and his mother, he decided to change the punchline style with one big witty kicker at the end. Before I could respond to how I planned to kick his gut and butt, he sent me a different ending he thought was the Met Al best, “As Tony Deyal would say, ‘In every marriage, the man may be the head of the house- but the woman is the neck…and theneckdoesalltheturning.’”
*Tony Deyal said, “You wrong! When I catch up with you, I will twist you and all your parts round, and round, and round again, and then I will send your bum in the jail and the rest of you in the hospital.”
