Cap Newsmagazine July

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NEWS MAGAZINE

The Summer of Caribbean Continues here in Florida!

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Jubilee Celebrations

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amaican American Association of Central Florida prepares for Jubilee Celebrations–Beverly Manley-Duncan to attend!

President, Sandra Fatmi in a recent interview said "We are tremendously excited about celebrating Jamaica's upcoming 50th Independence Celebration with one of Jamaica's most popular first ladies as our featured speaker."

Currently ticket sales are projected to pass the 600 mark as the Jamaican and Caribbean community turn out for this memorable event. Attendees can enjoy a Black Tie Ball in celebration on July 28th with an evening of Elegance, as they plan to take you back to Jamaica for the evening in fine style.

At the end of August, Trinidad & Tobago takes center stage with their Black Tie Gala on August 25th – however at Lake Eola on August 12th everyone can enjoy a free festival celebrating the Jubilee Anniversaries of both Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago at the CAHM Festival with a special tribute presentation.

CACCF Member Val Duncan presenting a prize to an attendee.

rom Carnival in May to Caribbean American Heritage Month in June to the Jubilee Celebrations of Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago, the caribbean community is on display this summer throughout Florida. Caribbean Festivals, Business Expos, West Indies Cricket in Florida, Jamaica & Trinidad & Tobago Galas, the community will enjoy them all this summer. The caribbean is known for the warmth of it's people and the easy lifestyle associated with the "no problem mon" approach to life.

However, when you're from the caribbean you know that there is so much more to Caribbean people. That was on display this June as part of Caribbean American Heritage Month.

Continued on page 23

West Indies Team wins in the United States

In a win over New Zealand and a win for cricket in the United States

See story on page 12

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Buy Combo tickets for Culturama "Mello-Go-Roun" & The Jamaican American Association's Ball Celebrating Jamaica's 50th Independence Anniversary

Saturday July 28th Rosen Plaza Hotel Orlando, Fl. 32819

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L I F E S T Y L E

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Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

Here’s his email:

n working in this community, you come across the good, the bad and the ugly - in terms of personalities of course! During this summer, which was about unity and coming together as one Caribbean, I must admit that at times I thought ...whoa is this really worth it?

Who are we to try to work for the greater good, when others will just sit around and question your motives instead of rolling up their sleeves and pitching right in?

“There are times fellow Nationals will ask why I’m involved in Community Work. I get the quizzical look at my response “ I Do It For Me.” Today, spoke with Lyndel Wright, President of the Jamaica Cricket Association.

As a teenager, I paid attention to his cricket exploits silently wishing him success.

Why? He is the brother of the late Great Collie Smith ... killed in an auto accident in September 1959. Sir Garfield Sobers was the driver. Over the last couple months we developed a phone friendship. Looking forward to meeting him at the cricket tomorrow. Said he brought two bottles of the best Jamaican Rum.

Then just at the right time the answers started rolling in. The way messages come to you just when you need them.

Kamal Abdool An email came across my computer from Kamal Abdool of the Trinidad Diaspora Move- Couple of hours ago had a wonderful conversation with Darren ment that said - I do it for me, when asked why he Ganga, the former TNT cricket captain and now Sports Ambassador was active in Community work. It was not a response for TNT. He accepted the invitation to play for the TNT Consul to a question from me, but it was the answer I needed General’s XI on Saturday August 11th. This is a 3.00 PM fixture before the main feature at 7.00 PM. to my own questions.

After my 10 am meeting with the Jamaican Diaspora Board of Directors, attending a Brunch with the Asst. Secretary Of Energy, Government Of The United States, Dr Vincent Adams, who’s originally from Guyana. I don’t know how ... yet, but this meeting will benefit fellow nationals.

What’s Your Passion. Focus on the Journey ... Not The Destination . . . and . . . You’ll meet wonderful people on the way. Do It For You.” Kamal Abdool (Kamal is one of the organizers of the cricket festival in Ft. Lauderdale, August 10th - August 11th, Jamaica v Trinidad & Tobago in honor of their 50th Jubilee Anniversary) Kamal, thank you for the boost of renewed strength and energy you gave me at a much needed time. It was a reminder that I believe that we are strongest as a community when we work together, I believe that we cannot and will never be taken seriously as a force to be reckoned with in the political field unless we do as the hispanics have done and work together to build pride in being Caribbean Americans, first and Caribbean second.

I’ve realized that there are others who don’t care about Unity, they don’t care about the strength of the Caribbean as a unified group, but I do and there are many others out there who share that belief. So I’ll continue to do as I did, I will leave my mark in this community, enjoying every step along the way. I’m doing it for me!

GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1230 Hillcrest Street, Suite 101 • Orlando, FL 32803 407-427-1800 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com For Media Information email: capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Editor ............................................................................. Audrey Johnson Contributing Writers: ..................................................... Natasha Gittens ........................................................................................ .Lyma Dunbar . .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell ................................................................................ Nouchelle Hastings Contributing Photographers ........................................... Dillia Castillo Distribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

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First Lady Michele Obama Excites Central Florida Democratic Faithful with the Re-election Message “Fired up, ready to go; Four More Years; We can do it again; Move it Forward; Si Se Puede (yes we can).” These were some of the rallying chants that greeted First Lady Michele Obama as she arrived at the University of Central Florida on Tuesday afternoon on a campaign stop through the State.

Mrs. Obama wasted no time in informing the crowd of several thousand, of the accomplishments of her husband, President Barack Obama, in his first term in office, and noted that his shared vision for all Americans to experience the American Dream is not yet fully realized. Most significant among these accomplishments she said were the protection of our basic rights, Health Care for the majority of Americans, protection of the rights of women, the addition of women to the Supreme Court, and lower interest rate on student loans . On the economy, she said that for twenty eight (28) consecutive months there have been increases in private sector employment, and significant decreases in the number of unemployed reported.

Addressing the crowd for about a half hour, the FLOTUS (First

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.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), the Democratic National Committee chairwoman spoke to a mostly female crowd in Orlando. She talked education, health care, and women’s rights and reiterated not only the accomplishments of the Obama administration, but the importance of bringing people out to polls come election day. Her message was about what women

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Lady of the United States) said that in making his decisions, the President is guided by his own life experiences, which she insisted are reflective of the experiences of most Americans. Briefly explaining hers and her husband’s humble beginnings, Mrs. Obama pointed to what can be accomplished through hard work, commitment and dedication. The President has a lot of work still to be done, she explained, as he wants a better America for the young people. She invited the audience to get involved, as the President “cannot do it alone”. She urged them to multiply themselves by getting family, friends, communities mobilized to go to the polls this November.

Mrs. Obama is of the opinion that the upcoming election will be much closer than the previous one, and urged the electorate to get out the votes by attending events, having conversations, and visiting door to door, as the cost of a few votes could have great impact on the outcome of the election. Stating that this is a long, hard journey, she pointed to the need to move forward, as the fight for change is necessary and should not be stopped now. Then she asked, “ARE YOU ALL IN?”

Women for Obama

could lose if they are not careful : fair pay (Romney has not yet commented on Obama’s first law, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act), birth control options (available under the Affordable Care Act which Romney has vowed to repeal) and affordable education (available via Obama’s student loan reforms.)

She noted that for women “This is really the most important election of our time.”

IMMIGRATION: The Hot Topic

By Jackson Marcelin, Esq.

Obama came along and made a lot of promises regarding immigration reform. However, during his first couple of ecently, the Obama Administration announced a bold years in office, his administration deported immigrants at initiative: Immigration Relief for close to a million ille- a faster pace then did the Bush administration. This apgal immigrants. proach did change in the last year or so and Immigration has been began to offer alternaone of the most controtives to deportation. versial topics in AmeriSuch alternatives came can politics over the in the form of “proslast decade. It all ecutorial discretion” for started, of course, with aliens who had resided the 9/11 attack where in the U.S. for some two of the world trade time and had no crimicenter perpetrators nal records. were sent an approval notice on their student While well-intentioned, visa status by the then this alternative leaves “INS”, after they were the alien in limbo once known to have been inthe deportation is tervolved in the attack. minated. This is beThis called for the Bush cause the alien has no administration to take real immigration bendrastic measures: the efits such as a work Department of Homepermit or the so called land Security is born. “INS” Immigration & Naturalization “green card”. Needing to do more, the Obama administraService became “USCIS” United States Citizenship & Immi- tion announced that it would give “Deferred Action” to gration Services as part of the Department of Homeland Se- aliens who meet the following: curity hierarchy.

1. Have come to the United States under the age of sixteen; This, of course, was not enough. Thus came the Real ID Act 2. Have continuously resided in the United States for at least five years preceding June 15, 2012 and are present in the that began to make life really difficult for immigrants. Inter United States on June 15, 2012; alia, that law made it more difficult to get a driver’s license 3.

Currently be in school, have graduated from high school, and established more rigid requirements to establish a prima have obtained a general education development certificate, facie case for asylum. The federal government then spends or are honorably discharged veterans of the Coast Guard or millions of dollars building hundreds of miles of fences along Armed Forces of the United States; the Mexican border and it becomes politically correct to en4. Have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant gage in immigrant bashing. misdemeanor offense, multiple misdemeanor offenses, or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety; 5. Not be above the age of thirty.

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“Honoring Those who lead by example, who work hard in the West Indian Community without recognition”

Join

Caribbean American Passport News Magazine & Richard Yates, Julia O’Conner & Joanne Rowley August 5th, 2012 at 3pm Caribbean Hut Restaurant 2141 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 For more information, please contact Guenet 407-427-1800 : Richard 407 - 353-9699 Joanne 215-266-2812 : Julia 407-325-8532

Live Performances by Branches Steel Orchestra, Leon Coldero & In Session Band Food & Drinks will be on sale Fundraiser for Jerry Demings Orange County Sheriff, running for reelection.

Guest Speaker Jerry Demings Orange County Sheriff

All contribution levels are welcomed from $5.00 - $500.00.

Contributions are limited to $500.00 per person or corporate entity.

Please make checks payable to “Jerry Demings Campaign”

The Department of Homeland Security makes it clear that Deferred Action is a discretionary determination to defer removal action of an individual as an act of prosecutorial discretion.

Deferred Action does not confer lawful status upon an individual. At least, if you receive Deferred Action, you are eligible for employment authorization if you can demonstrate an economic necessity.

There is no application process yet in place for Deferred Action. USCIS will make an announcement for the procedures on how to apply; thus, no request should be submitted at this time. Beginning June 18, you may call the USCIS hotline at 1800-375-5283, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with questions or to request more information on the new process.

It is estimated that about 800,000 people may be eligible for this relief. If you are granted Deferred Action, it will be valid for two years. After the two year period, the grant of deferred action can be renewed, pending a review of your individual case.

Every year, thousands of immigrant students graduate high school but are unable to attend college despite having excellent grades. Some are even awarded full scholarships that they have to forgo due to their immigration status or lack thereof.

We do appreciate this initiative from the Obama administration that should help hundreds of thousands of young immigrant students to attend college. We hope that this administration will aggressively undertake the much bolder step of comprehensive immigration reform once President Obama is reelected.

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9th Annual Back to School Day Festival

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n July 27, 2012 the Caribbean Community Connection of Orlando in collaboration with the Pine Hills Neighborhood Center For Families (funded by Orange County Florida) celebrates their 9th Annual Back to School Day Festival at The Walt Disney World Boys and Girls Club located at 5211 Hernandes Dr. in Orlando from 4pm – 7pm. This is a festive event and a day full of food, music and fun. Although we provide a host of other services, this day our main focus is to provide free school supplies to needy children in the community.

The Caribbean Community Connection of Orlando, Inc. is a community based service 501c3 organization that supports community outreach projects for youth between the ages of 6 and 18. Caribbean Community Connection of Orlando, Inc. began in September 2003 and is the only known Caribbean community based service organization in Orlando , Florida to date.

The Caribbean Community Connection takes a proactive response to the concerns of the Caribbean community and values education as a key component to success. We believe “An Educated Community is a Proactive Community.”

For additional information please contact The Pine Hills Neighborhood Center for Families, at 407-294-3519.

Clement I Scantlebury Certified Audi Brand Specialist

Classic Audi 880 State Road 434 South Altamonte Springs, FL. 32714 407-992-4321 office 407-206-9593 fax • 917-886-6940 cell cscantlebury@classicaudi.com

The Caribbean Health Summit

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he Caribbean Health Summit is celebrating its 10th year of providing free screenings for hypertension, cholesterol, mammograms, PSA, Pap Smears, BMI, HIV, eye screenings to the Central Florida community. This year the event will add a symposium that will feature several topics that are ‘relevant to both the public and the medical practitioners alike. The symposium will be held at the Central Florida Fairgrounds on Friday, September 8th, 2012. The Caribbean Health Summit seeks to educate and empower men and women to take a proactive approach to improve the health, wellness and quality of their life. The Caribbean Health Summit is the only program of its kind in the Central Florida area for the Caribbean community.

The Center for Multicultural Wellness and Prevention, Inc. (CMWP), along with several community partners (Florida Hospital, Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce of Orlando and Orange County Health Department) are partnering in the planning of the “10th Annual Caribbean Health Summit” to be held on Saturday, September 8th, 2012 at the Central Florida Fairgrounds located at 4603 W. Colonial Drive in Orlando, Florida. The event starts at 8:00am and ends at 2:00pm. This year’s event, with the theme “A Healthy Community Begins With You” is meant to motivate individuals to take a proactive step in making healthy choices in the lives. After the symposium, which starts at 9:00am and ends at 4:00pm, there will be a “Welcome Reception” for all exhibitors and invited guests.

The topics that will be discussed at the symposium are: 1. Social determinants of health and its impact on health care delivery 2. Childhood Obesity 3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 4. Cardiovascular Disease/Stroke 5. HIV/AIDS Participants who attend the Summit are looking for services and products that improve their quality of life. The 2012 Caribbean Health Summit will provide a “great” opportunity for your organization to showcase information, products, or services, which address and promote solutions for healthy and positive lifestyles.

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ImmigrationTALK

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Obama Announced Deferred Action for Young Immigrants in U.S. rization until they turn 16, but the officials said younger children won’t be deported either.

By Attorney Gail S. Seeram, 1-877-GAIL-LAW Gail@GailLaw.com www.GailLaw.com

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n June 15, 2012, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and President Obama announced that certain young people who were brought to the United States as young children, who do not present a risk to national security or public safety, and meet several key criteria will be considered for relief from removal from the country or from entering into removal proceedings. Those who demonstrate that they meet the criteria will be eligible to receive deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal, and will be eligible to apply for work authorization.

This policy will not lead toward citizenship but will remove the threat of deportation and grant the ability to work legally, leaving eligible immigrants able to remain in the United States for an extended period. The use of deferred action confers no substantive right, immigration status, or pathway to citizenship. Deferred action means DHS will temporarily halt any removal (deportation) proceedings against you for a certain period of time (a sort of temporary deportation waiver).

For young adult immigrants, this new policy gives them an opportunity to further their education or work skill since work authorization will grant them a social security number for enrollment in college and other certificate programs. Currently, undocumented young immigrants cannot attend college or certificate programs since most do not have a social security number. The U.S. will benefit from this policy because college enrollment may increase, military enrollment Under this directive, individuals who demonstrate that they may increase, and various revenue streams such as car sales meet the following criteria will be eligible for deferred action, and home sales may increase with young adults acquiring on a case-by-case basis AND can apply for work authorization purchasing power through working and obtaining social security numbers. in the U.S. if they meet the following criteria: 1 Came to the United States under the age of sixteen; 2. Have continuously resided in the United States for a least five years preceding the date of this memorandum (June 15, 2012) and are present in the United States on the date of this memorandum (June 15, 2012); 3. Are currently in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a general education development certificate, or are honorably discharged veterans of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States; 4. Have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense, multiple misdemeanor offenses, or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety; 5. Are not above the age of thirty.

While this guidance takes effect immediately as of June 15, 2012, USCIS and ICE expect to begin implementation of the application processes within sixty days. So, right now there is no process set out where eligible applicants can apply for deferred action or work authorization, however, the application process will be forthcoming. Also, there has been no indication as to how long the process will take for an eligible immigrant to obtain work authorization.

For individuals who are in removal proceedings and have already been identified as meeting the eligibility criteria and have been offered an exercise of discretion as part of Immigration and Custom Removal (ICE) ICE ongoing case-by-case review, ICE will immediately begin to offer them deferred action for a Only those individuals who can prove through verifiable docu- period of two years, subject to renewal. mentation that they meet these criteria will be eligible for deferred action and work authorization. Individuals will not be Though President Obama has been criticized for implementeligible if they are not currently in the United States and can- ing this policy to gain political momentum among the not prove that they have been physically present in the United Latino and immigrant voters, however, this initiative is the States for a period of not less than 5 years immediately preced- step in the right direction for our country to retain eduing June 15, 2012. Illegal immigrant children won’t be eligible cated young adults in a time where we need skilled and to apply for this benefit of deferred action and work autho- educated workers.

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Governor Scott Refuses to Implement Affordable Care Act gal, immoral, and destructive to the citizens in Florida. For some reason our governor has not come to terms that he has lost the battle with the Affordable Care Act. Mentally our governor is stuck in a brain freeze, and instead of going forward our governor is going backward.

By Roger Caldwell

“Florida is not going to implement Obamacare. We are not going to expand Medicaid and we’re not going to implement exchanges,” says Governor Scott. Our governor has made a choice to be defiant and stubborn, and only do the minimum to get ready for the health care overhaul.

After losing the legal suit, our governor is now stating that the law must be repealed and he is going to wait, because the president may lose the election. The governor believes that once Romney wins the election, he will be able to get the law repealed.

This thinking makes no sense because once the bureaucracy gets in motion; it is not easy to change something that has started.

As the governor turns down millions of dollars to set up insurance exchanges, he will also forgo billions in federal aid over 10 years by not expanding Medicaid. The Supreme Court has agreed that states can opt out of not expanding Medicaid, but our governor would leave more than 1 million of Florida’s poorest citizens uninsured. The Medicaid expansion would be a big help in Governor Scott has decided to act like a spoiled brat and do our state, because we have a very high rate of uninsured people. nothing to comply with the law of the land. By law, if a state refuses to create its own health insurance program the federal Without the Medicaid expansion program hundreds of thougovernment will create one. States need to submit plans to the sands of Floridians would be caught in a gray area of the law federal government that demonstrate their readiness to launch that would leave them uninsured. ProPublica a non-profit newshealth exchanges by November 16, 2012. room that produces investigative journalism in the public interest determined that in Florida 951,622 people could gain Initially Governor Scott stated that he would comply with the insurance under the Medicaid expansion. decision from the Supreme Court. But somewhere our governor changed his mind and now he is turning down millions of There is a disconnect in Florida, when the governor and the dollars to set up insurance exchanges. He knows that under legislature claim that they are working for the people in the the health care law, by 2014 states must implement a health state, and they refuse a program that could insure almost 1 insurance exchange, which is a web-based marketplace where million residents. How can the governor say that he cares about people can shop for insurance. the residents but refuse help? It is time for the governor to stop acting like a spoiled brat, follow the law, and work to make the By not complying with the law our governor has became ille- Affordable Care Act a successful piece of legislature in Florida.

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See store for details.

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Beyond our Shores… a Tourism and Trade Mission featuring guest speaker Dr. Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Held June 8, 2012 in Tampa, FL

had the unique opportunity to spend some time with Antigua & Barbuda’s Head of State who is deeply committed to Educahe Tampa Bay International Business Council hosted tion as an economic development tool.

Beyond our Shores… a business breakfast reception on Friday, June 8, 2012 at Tampa’s Museum of Art from 8:30 The event was coordinated by Caribbean community leader Roxanne Bartley. The Tampa Bay International Business Couna.m. – 11:30 a.m. cil comprises a group of bi-national chambers of commerce, busiIn keeping with the TBIBC’s tradition of celebrating Diversity, Col- ness councils and trade associations in the Tampa Bay Region. laboration and Prosperity, they celebrated National Caribbean Represented are the Florida Gulf Coast Brazilian Chamber of ComHeritage Month as a key component of the event. TBIBC organiz- merce, Tampa Caribbean, Tampa Bay British American Business ers in partnership with the Museum of Art featured art and music Council, Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Tampa from the Caribbean. Key presenters included City of Tampa Mayor Bay, Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Tampa Bay, French-AmeriBob Buckhorn, Commissioner Al Higginbotham and the Honor- can Business Council of West Florida, Indo-US Chamber of Comable Dr. Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda. merce, International Business Board, Philippine American ChamAttendees learned more about international trade and tourism ber of Commerce, Russian-American Association, Scandinavian opportunities between Tampa Bay and the twin island nation, and Trade Association, Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of Tampa had unparalleled networking with economic and political deci- Bay Florida, Tampa Bay Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. sion makers and entrepreneurs, continental breakfast and more.

For additional information, visit www.tbibc.org; or contact Roxanne International students from area universities volunteered and Bartley at rb@bartleyventures.com or 888-411-8895 Ext 7386.

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CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying Action

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June 8, 2012, Antigua & Barbuda vs. USA

espite the torrential downpour, soccer fans descended upon Raymond James Stadium for the 7pm game. Caribbean fans enjoyed an Antiguan & Barbudan styled tailgate complete with delicious fungi and salt fish! Soca music blared from the

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speakers in the parking lot and at one point Prime Minister Spencer was seen dancing in the rain as he went inside to support his Benna Boys! Despite an early ankle injury for USA’s Torres and less than stellar play, the USA team still defeated the Antiguans 3-1.

Caribbean American Association 2nd Annual Jamaican Independence Celebration

Celebrating Jamaica’s 50th Independence

August 4, 2012 7pm -11pm

Deltona Community Center 980 Lakeshore Dr • Deltona, FL Tickets $15.00 in advance or $20.00 at the door For more information contact: Dawn Dawson (386) 532-3688 Veronica Dixion (386) 960-4078

July 26th, 7:00pm Thursday

Learn More about Food for the Poor Outreach Programs & Initiatives Forum Hampton Inn 151 N. Douglas Ave. Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 For More Information Contact Sandy Isaacs 407-272-7522 or email sandylisaacs@yahoo.com

July 27th, 4:00-7:00pm Friday

9th Annual Back to School Day Festival Walt Disney World Boys & Girls Club 5211 Hernandes Dr. Orlando, FL 32808

July 27th, 7:00pm Friday

Culturama Osceola Performing Arts Center 3141 Orange Blossom Tr Kissimmee, FL 34744

July 28th, 6:30pm Saturday

Black Tie Ball Jamaica’s 50th Independence The Rosen Plaza Hotel 9700 International Dr Orlando, FL 32819

July 28th, 7:00pm Saturday

Culturama 2012 “Mello-Go-Round” University Area Community Development Center 14013 N. 22nd Street Tampa, FL 33613

July 29th, 3:45-5:30pm Sunday

“The Out of Many, One People” Worship & Thanksgiving Church Service Celebrating Jamaica’s 50th Independence Metro West Church of the Nazarene 3705 N. Apopka Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32818

August 2nd, 6:00-9:00pm Thursday

RYSE is Turning 1 Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts 455 S. Orange Ave. Orlando, FL 32801 (Located directly across the street from City Hall) Free Event but you must register for attendance due to limited availability Bus: 407-494-1069 or http:/ www.rysemagazine.com

August 4th, 10:00-2:00pm Saturday Back to School FREE Vision Screenings Millennium Eye Center 6601 Old Winter Garden Rd. Orlando, FL 32835

August 4th, Saturday 10:00pm-Till…

Jamaica Independence Party Celebration Jerk Hut Jamaican Grill 926 E. Flower Ave. Tampa, FL 33612 For more information: 813-416-3946 or 813-638-3661.

August 6th Monday 5:00pm-Till….

Jamaica Flag Raising Ceremony University Area Community Development Center For more information: 813-416-3946 or 813-638-3661.

14013 N. 22nd Street Tampa, FL 33613

August 6th 4:30pm Monday Watch Party- See Kirani James Representing Grenada in the Olympics 400 meter race Place TBD for further information Contact Val Duncan 321-303-9345

August 12th 12:00-8:00pm Sunday

CAHM Festival Rescheduled from June 24th Lake Eola Park 195 N. Rosalind Ave. Orlando, FL 32801

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West Indies Team wins in the United States

In a win over New Zealand and in a win for cricket in the United States — Continued from page 1 —

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une ended with an exciting energy - West Indies Cricket came to the United States and brought more than 15,000 people together most of whom celebrated the West Indies Team. The two Digicel Twenty20 Internationals between West Indies and New Zealand at the Central Broward Regional Park in the United States have been described as successful by a number of people involved.

“Given the huge number of West Indians who live in the United States and neighbouring, as well as the commercial possibilities both for West Indies cricket and the game, this was long overdue.”

Members of the West Indies team also hailed the success of the matches in the United States.

West Indies Cricket Board President Dr. Julian Hunte said the “The atmosphere was good,” said talismanic opener Chris success of the two matches was an exciting prospect for the Gayle, whose batting in the two matches earned him the Digicel game not only in the West Indies, but around the World.

Man-of-the-Series award.

“We are delighted that the two matches in the United States “It was a huge advantage for us, the way the fans came out were so successful,” he said. and supported us so that helped to make us feel relaxed and at home.”

“We are extremely grateful for the major efforts undertaken by the Friends of Broward County, the United States Cricket Asso- West Indies captain Darren Sammy added: “Thanks to the ciation, as well as Broward County itself. crowd for coming out and supporting us, it felt like we were at home.

“We have been very impressed with the Central Broward Regional Park. The two teams were made to feel extremely wel- “The way the fans came out and supported us over the weekcomed by the people of South Florida, and we felt the two end made us feel at home. It felt like we could be in Jamaica or matches were a spectacular advertisement for the game.”

St. Lucia, so we can safely say South Florida is ‘home’ for us.”

West Indies coach Ottis Gibson said he was thrilled his side Dr. Hunte said he hoped the two matches would now help to responded to the crowd support and played attractively to win spur further interest in the game in the United States. the two matches handsomely.

“This was a bold expansion of the Digicel 2012 Series beyond the shores of the Caribbean, and we are excited to have brought the game back to the scores of West Indies fans in North America,” he said.

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“There was a hell of a lot of people here who came to see us perform in the United States,” he said. “It was good that we could put on a good display for them and it gave us a good start to this Digicel Series against New Zealand.”

West Indies Team, continued

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CULTURAMA 2012 MELLO-GO-ROUND Delightful Entertainment for the Entire Family

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rich blend of traditional folk dance, music, storytelling mixed with contemporary popular moves will take center stage on July 27th at The Osceola performing Arts Center. (Formerly the Tupperware Auditorium) when Culturama 2012 - Mello-Go-Round presented by Jamaica Awareness, Inc. In Association with Jamaica Cultural Connection, Inc. And Jamaican - American Association of Central Florida.

Malachi Smith This year’s annual display of cultural expressions Comes To Orlando in celebration of the Jubilee Anniversary of Jamaica and will feature favorites such as the Clonmel Culture Club, Tivoli Dance Troupe, Glenmuir High School Choir along with Malachi Smith, Millicent Morris-Lynch.

Tivoli Dance Troupe

Elegant Atmosphere and Superb Food

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LEADING LADIES BEHIND THE SCENES AND ON THE FRONT LINE Welcome to my column on Leading Ladies behind the Scenes. Our column will introduce you to leading ladies who have branded their own recognition and blazed their own trails. These ladies work behind the scenes but manage the front line with high impact results. You might have heard their names or admired their work, but never met them up close and personal. Our column will give you the chance to meet these ladies so you can place a face with the name and their trendsetting work in our community, various organizations and in business. Thank you for celebrating their value with us.

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

Chief Val Demings

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hief Val Demings The youngest of seven children, Val Demings was raised to believe she could achieve anything if she put her mind to it. After graduating from Jacksonville’s public schools, Demings received a B.S. in Criminology from Florida State University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Webster University. Demings spent her early career as a Social Worker focused on foster care, and then joined the police force in Orlando.

Demings was President of her class at the police academy, and then earned a reputation as a tenacious, no-nonsense cop. After serving in the Criminal Investigations Division, Internal Affairs and other departments, she was tapped to serve as the Commander of the Special Operations. There, she was responsible for some of Orlando’s highest profile tasks, including special events, dignitary protection, and K-9 units.

In 2007, Demings was selected to serve as Chief for the Orlando Police Department – the first woman to ever hold that position.

Being ‘first’ for Val is a familiar place; she was first in her family to move beyond traditional boundaries and find success in taking out of the box opportunities and leveraging the best results.

Upon taking office, she launched an all-out war against crime.

Her tenure was marked by a dramatic forty percent reduction in violent crime, including robberies, shootings and murders. Under her bold and aggressive leadership, thousands of guns were removed from Orlando’s streets, and communities became safer.

One heartfelt scenario is the reconstruction of hope after so many senseless killings and other violent crimes in the Palms. Chief Demings personally became involved with saving this complex and soon began walking door-to-door asking the residents how they could band together and make a difference. In short, the nine violent crime calls a day became as minimal as 3 calls a day for noise disturbance and request for attention to the property on repairs. The Chief whose words “call me if you need anything”

learned anything means anything when she received a call from a tenant who was without a refrigerator because the complex wouldn’t fix it…. Yes, you guessed it; the Chief intervened and made it happen. With crime down, tenants living in pride, Chief Demings looked at other areas to address issues. An amazing partnership and leadership stemmed for reading and teaching both children and adults how to read and comprehend, a GED program was in full bloom and a blue ribbon of community vitality became the new door knocker for every resident.

After twenty-seven years at the Orlando Police Department, including three and a half years as the department’s top cop, Demings decided to retire from the force and continue her commitment to public service in another way. Demings will work to end the petty, partisan quarrelling in Washington and make the American dream a reality for the hard-working families of the Orlando area.

It is said that if we want something different in Congress we have to send different people. People like Val who can help repair what’s broken and has been broken for 30 plus years, someone like Val who for thirty years have been protecting the good of humanity and thinking out of the box with high performance results.

Demings’ husband Jerry is also a respected leader in Orlando law enforcement, and is currently serving as the Sheriff of surrounding Orange County. The mother of three sons and an active motorcyclist, Val Demings is committed to her family, her church and her community.

If you want to know more about Val and Val Demings for Congress or wish to donate to her campaign you may visit www.valdemings.com Talk Show Host /Columnist 1680AM WOKB Tuesday’s at 1:00 pm

International Youth Conference Against the Contagion of Violence 2012: Reshaping and Mobilizing Our Youths from Intervention to Prevention Central Florida Association CADVA heading to Guyana to host this Conference

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he (Irene Madray Recreational Arts and Resources Center—Cane Grove, an NGO) will be partnering up with CADVA (Caribbean American Domestic Violence Awareness—a US Non-Profit Organization) and ROC (Rights of Children, an organization under Guyana Human Rights, an NGO) to host its first International Youth Conference. The launch is scheduled for Monday August 13, 2012 at the Pegasus Hotel in Georgetown, Guyana. Young people have been invited from various regions around Guyana to attend this conference as a creative learning experience in prevention to foster a violence free environment.

Several young people from High Schools and Universities in New York and Florida will accompany CADVA team leaders to work alongside the youth in Guyana presenting as “young research scientists” on topics such as Harassment and Sexual

Bullying, Sexual Abuse, Rape, Domestic Violence and Race, including topics of racial Tolerance.

The conference will be chaired by Educator and Journalist Mr. Annan Boodram of New York, USA. The US Ambassador to Guyana, Brent Hardt, will be the Opening Speaker. Ambassador Brent Hardt will be joined by Dr. Faith Harding, who will be the moderator of portions, with many experts in the field at this event.

We encourage parents, social workers , community leaders and educators to come out and hear the words, wisdom, vision and hope for our youths. This is a beginning conversation to effect change and secure the development of our youths. Listen to their voices so they can also be the change agents for Guyana’s youth development.

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Election Watch 2012

Primary Election: August 14, 2012 General Election: November 6, 2012 Election Myths vs Facts * MYTH: Voters will be turned away if they are wearing campaign apparel.

refinance the home. Voters whose homes have been foreclosed but who remain in their homes may continue to vote in their assigned precinct. Voters who have physically moved from their foreclosed residence with no intention of returning to that address as their residence may still vote, but should provide a change of address to the supervisor of elections. You must vote in your correct precinct.

FACT: “Voters may wear campaign buttons, shirts, hats, or any other campaign items when they enter the polling place to * MYTH: If you are a Florida college student, you have to change vote; voters may not otherwise campaign there.” (From the your permanent residence to your college address.

Polling Place Procedures Manual incorporated within Rule 1SFACT: If a college student registers with a legal residence in a 2.034, Florida Administrative Code) Florida county, then no further proof of residency is required, So, merely going to the polls wearing campaign parapherna- regardless of where the college student’s parents reside or lia is OK, but, by statute (s. 102.031(4), Florida Statutes), one whether the student intends to move back to where the parcannot solicit voters within 100 foot of the entrance to any ents are located. polling place. * MYTH: Provisional ballots are only counted when there is a * MYTH: The address on the driver license must match the ad- close race. dress in the voter registration record in order to be able to vote.

FACT: A provisional ballot is always counted when the voter is FACT: The address on the driver license does not need to match the shown to be registered and eligible, regardless of the closeness of address in the voter registration record. If you have moved and the outcome of the election. A person who votes provisionally haven’t changed your driver license to reflect your new address, simply because he or she forgot ID at the polls will not have to that’s okay. What is important is that you vote in the precinct where do anything else. If the signatures on that ballot certificate and the voter roll matches, the provisional ballot is counted. you currently live, no matter what your driver license says.

For more information on this issue, read this helpful guide. * MYTH: If your house is under foreclosure, you will not be able to vote.

* MYTH: Absentee ballots are only counted when there is a close race.

FACT: All absentee ballots are counted if properly executed, which includes making sure that the return envelope is signed FACT: A foreclosure notice does not necessarily mean that a and that the signature matches the voter’s signature on record. person no longer resides in the home, as people often remain in the home after foreclosure begins and are sometimes able to * MYTH: If a voter owes child support or has pending warrants against him or her, the police will arrest the voter at the polls.

FACT: The voter registration rolls at the polls have no indicators whether a voter owes child support or has outstanding warrants against him or her. Furthermore, law enforcement personnel are not allowed in the polling place without the permission of the election board, so ordinarily there will not be any law enforcement personnel in the polling place to identify a voter who may have outstanding child support payments due or warrants against him or her. * MYTH: If the voter is homeless and has no legal residence, the voter may not vote.

FACT: State registration laws may not discriminate against the homeless in voter registration as long as the homeless applicant for voter registration intends to remain in a locale and has either a place where he can receive messages or an effective mailing address. The homeless person will vote in the precinct where the applicant receives messages (e.g., rescue mission) or the precinct in which the applicant‘s effective mailing address is located.

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USDA, Partners Educate Shoppers at Caribbean Supercenter on Healthy Food Choices Agriculture Deputy Secretary Merrigan highlighted MyPlate Anniversary and Efforts to Spur Healthy Food Access

Letters to My Lawyer

Letters to My Lawyer™ is a publication of Karlyn Hylton & Sasha Watson of Hylton, Adamson Watson & Moore, PLLC 120 E. Colonial Drive |Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-802-3223 griculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan celFax: 407-377-1971 ebrated the first anniversary of the MyPlate food icon E: letters@hawmlaw.com at Caribbean Supercenter, a family-owned business committed to community involvement. At the time they also Dear Lawyer, announced a MyPlate Community Partnership with the store.

I am unemployed and have been looking for a job for a few months Development of MyPlate came as a result of a 2010 report of now. I am more than qualified for jobs but every time they run a the White House Childhood Obesity Task Force. The report chal- background check, they say they can’t give me a job because I lenged USDA to design a new generation symbol to inspire have a criminal record. I was charged but never convicted of a consumers to choose healthier foods at mealtimes – something theft about 6 years ago and have never been charged or consimpler and more direct than the Food Pyramid. In June 2011, victed of anything else. I really need a job in this economy and First Lady Michelle Obama and Agriculture Secretary Tom was wondering if there is anything I can do to erase this record.

Vilsack unveiled MyPlate, the federal government’s primary food group symbol, to help consumers make healthy food Seeking advice, Jobless

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Dear Jobless, There is something you can do! In Florida, anybody who has never been convicted of a crime and never received a previous record sealing may request that their record be sealed or expunged. This means that all records of your arrest and court case are sealed by the Clerk of court and other agencies that may have access to it. It is removed from public record, and no longer available for public access. This can only occur one time and for one date meaning if there are multiple charge dates, the record sealing will only apply to one date and the others will still exist on your record. Once the records are sealed or expunged, you can legally deny and/or fail to disclose that you were arrested for the sealed or expunged crime. However, there are certain situations where you must disclose the expunged charge, including, but not limited to, applying for a job with a criminal justice agency, Department of Education, Department of Children and Families, any charter private or parochial school or any local government entity that licenses child care facilities as well as in documents presented to the US Citizenship and Immigration Service. You also have a legal obligation to disclose the charges if attempting to purchase a firearm, a defendant in a criminal prosecution and/or applying for licensing with the Florida Bar. Once expunged, it is a misdemeanor for anyone that has access to your record to reveal that your record has been sealed or expunged. In order to determine if you qualify for your record to be sealed, you must contact an attorney.

Regards, Karlyn Hylton, Esq. choices. MyPlate is a new generation icon intended to prompt HAW&M, PLLC consumers to think about building a healthy plate at meal times and to seek more information to help them do that by Please submit your letters to letters@hawmlaw.com. going to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.

Each month a reader’s letter will be chosen for response.

The Dairy Council of Florida also joined the celebration, along with Fuel Up to Play 60’s Florida State Representative Bobby Sena and Fuel Up to Play 60 representative and Orlando Predators star, Chris Leak. The program encourages youth to consume nutrient-rich dense foods (low-fat and fat-free milk and milk products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains) and achieve at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.

This column is primarily for educational purposes as well as to give the reader general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide any legal advice whatsoever. By reading this column you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and writer/publisher. This column should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney. This column is not published for advertising or solicitation purposes. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

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

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BRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUM FOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKING TOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE AND IN LIGHT OF OUR RECENTLY DEPARTED FRIEND, IF YOU KNEW YOU WERE GOING TO DIE TOMORROW, WHAT WOULD YOU DO TODAY? BRYAN: O.K. Gary, this is a SERIOUS one. If you knew you were going to die tomorrow, what would you be doing today?

GARY: I don’t know B, Probably Sleep.

BRYAN: What? You’re telling me that your last day on this earth would be spent sleeping. How could you even sleep knowing tomorrow you’re going to die? That makes absolutely no sense.

GARY: Makes no sense to you, but it makes perfect sense to me.

BRYAN: So you’re telling me that you wouldn’t want to spend your day with family and friends?

GARY: Friends like who, YOU?........Ha Ha Ha, you ever heard about guilt by association? Chances are you would have me doing things that I’ve never done.

BRYAN: And what’s wrong with that? Wouldn’t you want to try SUSHI, maybe even go BUNJI JUMPING or maybe PARACHUTING, or something that would get your blood pumping?

GARY: Sound like you want to kill me off before my time.

Thanks, but no thanks. Is that what you would do?

BRYAN: ME!! No Sir. I would much rather concentrate on those things that I KNOW MAKES ME HAPPY? GARY: Like what?

BRYAN: Well first and foreGary most, I would make LOVE with my wife. Then I would get done on my knees and pray for forgiveness for all the wrongs I’ve done.

GARY: Bwoy, that would be a long prayer. (LOL) Then what?

BRYAN: Whatever Man…..so after I’m done praying, I would probably go check into my favorite local hotel and make SWEET LOVE AGAIN. After which, I would order room service and eat everything I wanted.

GARY: O.K. that doesn’t sound bad, is that it?

BRYAN: Well after eating everything that I wanted, I would try to get another glimpse of heaven by making SWEET PASSIONATE LOVE AGAIN and AGAIN with my wife, just to make sure. Then I would call my mother and father and thank them for making such a fine specimen of a man.

GARY: Who’s that, your brother? LOL BRYAN: Jealousy will get you nowhere my friend, NO-

WHERE. But seriously, do you think your wife will just let you sleep if she knows it’s your last day on this earth?

GARY: O.K., O.K I guess I would make love to my wife too.

BRYAN: If I was her I would tell you to keep it, go back to sleep.

If you have to GUESS then you’re probably gonna waste her time anyway.

GARY: Whatever man, what’s wrong with wanting to be asleep when death comes?

Bryan BRYAN: I didn’t say there was anything wrong with wanting to be asleep when death comes. I just said, if you knew death was coming, how could you sleep?

GARY: You know to tell you the truth I don’t know what I would be doing. I don’t even want to think about it.

BRYAN: Well that’s understandable, most people don’t want to think about it. Me on the other hand, I would probably pack up all of the bad gifts I’ve gotten over the years and send each and every one of them back along with a note that said “Thanks, but no Thanks.”

GARY: Would that be before or after making love to your wife?

BRYAN: Before of course, remember I plan on praying afterwards for all the wrongs that I have done. So I would just include the whole sending back of the gifts in the prayer.

You understand?

GARY: I hear yah.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY THAT’S FULL OF UPS AND DOWNS, TWISTS AND TURNS, SUCCESSES AND FAILURES, AND A LOT OF THINGS IN BETWEEN. WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING TODAY, IF YOU KNEW YOU WERE GOING TO DIE TOMORROW? E-MAIL US AT BACK2BASICLIVE@GMAIL.COM .

TUNE IN EVERY SATURDAY FROM 5PM-7PM ON YOUR RADIO OR LISTEN TO US LIVE ON WWW.WOKBRADIO.COM

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Central Florida Urban League Announces New Board of Directors Members

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he Central Florida Urban League (CFUL,) a communitybased agency whose mission is to assist Central Floridians in achieving social and economic equality, has appointed five new board members to its board of directors.

Orlando business leaders joining the agency’s board include: • Dick Batchelor, President, DBMG, Inc. • Bob Billingslea, Vice President Urban Affairs, The Walt Disney Company (retired) • Reagan Rick, President & CEO, Central & North Florida, Fifth Third Bank • Derek Jones, President, East Central Florida, Wells Fargo Bank • Eddie Francis, Partner, Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A. The move continues the non-profit organization’s tradition of tapping leaders from Central Florida’s business community to support its efforts to serve and empower communities in need.

CFUL, like other non-profits depends on its Board to shape policy and help raise funds to support the organization. These new Board members bring expertise and good judgment in both of these critical areas “We are delighted to welcome our newly-appointed board members,” said Allie L. Braswell, Jr., CFUL President and CEO. “Their dedication and passion will only enhance the efforts of our returning members to support Central Florida Urban League’s work with children and families in the communities we serve.”

The following members will be returning to the Board of Directors for an additional term: • Yolanda Cade, Managing Director of Public Relations/Chief Spokesperson, AAA (Board Chair) • Richard Zahn CEO, ZMG Construction, Inc. • Linda Landman-Gonzalez, Vice President Community Relations, Orlando Magic • Wesley Harris, Florida District Plant Engineering Manager, UPS • Leonard K. Spencer, Finance Manager, Walt Disney World Resort (Treasurer) • Doug Hollis McDonald’s Owner/Operator, Hollis Enterprises of Orlando • Darnell Cadet President, Young Professionals Mr. Braswell spoke recently about the agency’s focus on its four programmatic areas of empowerment: Health Empowerment, Economic Empowerment, Personal Empowerment and Youth Empowerment. These areas will lead the agency’s work in the coming year. “Our new board members will bring to the Central Florida Urban League board fresh perspectives and approaches to our work that reflect our increasingly strategic focus around positioning the organization for the future,” said Yolanda Cade, managing director of Public relations for AAA and newly- elected Chairman of the CFUL Board of Directors.

“I’m also inspired by our returning members’ unwavering, longtime commitment to CFUL and its mission. These board members, as well as those who served previously, have demonstrated remarkable leadership to help produce lasting change. We are very pleased to welcome both of these groups to CFUL’s board.”

Also serving on the CFUL’s 2012 Board of Advisors to the CFUL CEO are: • Carolyn Fennell, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority • Thomas Chatmon, Downtown Development Board • Tony Thompson, PNC Bank • Roxanne Amoroso, Bank of America • Bishop Allen Wiggins, The Hope Church • Michael Lewellen, Heart of Florida United Way (Immediate Past Board Chair)

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Invites You to Their Black Tie Ball Celebrating Jamaica’s 50th Independence on Saturday, July 28th 2012 The Grand Ball Room at the Elegant Rozen Plaza Hotel 9700 International Drive • Orlando, FL 32819

Music by 506 Crew Band

COCKTAIL HOUR: 6:30 - 7:30 DINNER: 8:00 - 9:00 PM CASH BAR

PM

Music by DJ Phayz

of Vibrant Sound

RSVP: 407-929-7477 & 770-789-7004

You’re invited to a Weekend of Celebrations in Honor of Jamaica’s 50th Independence Anniversary Friday, July 27th ‘CULTURAMA’

The Osceola Performing Arts Center, 3141 Orange Blossom Trail, Kissimmee, FL - 7:00 pm

Saturday, July 28th “BLACK TIE BALL” The Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive, Orlando, FL - 6:30pm

Sunday, July 29th “CHURCH SERVICE”

“The Out of Many, One People” Worship & Thanksgiving Service in Celebration of Jamaica’s 50th Independence To be held at the METROWEST CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE located at 3705 North Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32818 on Sunday, July 29th 2012 from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm (Please arrive by 3:45 pm to secure a seat) Come and enjoy a glorious time of Praise and Worship as we take you down Memory Lane

“BALL” only - tickets are $75.00- final date for purchase is July 21st, 2012.

If you would like to attend both events, Combo tickets are $85.00 pp.

“CULTURAMA” only - tickets are $25.00 General Seating in advance.

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Mound - $10.00 Grandstand - $20.00 V.I.P. - $75.00 FRIDAY AUG 10th - Trinidad v Jamaica at 6 pm Gates open at 4 PM • Live Entertainment

SATURDAY AUG 11th - TNT v Jam at 6 pm GATES OPEN 1 PM

Before Main Event:

Jamaican CG XI/Captain Lawrence Rowe vs TNT CG XI/Captain Barron Ganga - 2 PM Live Entertainment

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The Summer of Caribbean Continues . . .

Jerk Festival held in Clermont June 23rd

The Taste of the Caribbean and Jerk Festival held by the Caribbean American Association of Lake County at Family Christian Center Grounds in Clermont, was a huge success. The inaugural event had over 2,000 people in attendance. There was a ribbon cutting

ceremony performed by South Lake Chamber of Commerce, to kick off the event. Entertainment ranged from from gospelmusic, steel band to reggae and calypso music. The day featured a Jerk Cook-off contest, Cricket demonstration and dominoes contest.

Colors of the Caribbean

Colors of the Caribbean, was held at the Hollywood Arts Park in Downtown Hollywood as part of the celebrations held across the country to mark Caribbean American Heritage Month. “This is the biggest and best attended event ever held at the ArtsPark” stated Mayor Peter Bober during the VIP Reception, where Caribbean Icons were recognized for their contributions to the society here in the US, by Jamaica Awareness. The reception also showcased visual Haitian Artist, Roland Mecklembourg.

Colors of the Caribbean was responsible for attracting over 5,000 attendees, who came out to enjoy everything Caribbean in downtown Hollywood and got a true taste of the islands. Attendees enjoyed live performances from Queen of Reggae, Ms. Marcia Griffiths and King of Calypso, Mr. David Rudder and other performers as they celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Independence of both Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago.

Caribbean American Growth Expo, — Continued from page 1 —

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