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Blessings for Eid al-Adha Greetings from President Obama

Caribbean-American owned businesses sprouting up despite recession

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ichelle and I extend our greetings for a happy Eid al-Adha to Muslims worldwide and congratulate those performing Hajj. Thousands of Muslim Americans are among those who have joined one of the world’s largest and most diverse gatherings in making the pilgrimage to Mecca and nearby sites.

As Muslims celebrate this Eid, they will also commemorate Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son by distributing food to those less fortunate around the world. They join the United States and the international community in relief efforts to assist those struggling to survive in the Horn of Africa and those recovering from the devastating earthquake in Turkey.

The Eid and Hajj rituals are a reminder of the shared roots of the world’s Abrahamic faiths and the powerful role that faith plays in motivating communities to ser ve and stand with those in need.

On behalf of the American people, we extend our best wishes during this Hajj season. Eid Mubarak and Hajj Mabrour.

Continued on page 15

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L I F E S T Y L E

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very month when I write this column, it seems as though we’re gearing up for something busier and busier. This month is no exception, it’s November, and that means Thanksgiving is here. It also means that I get to decorate for Christmas on Thanksgiving night. I love Christmas and I love the fact that I could decorate from as early as November for it.

So this is my favorite time of year.

This Thanksgiving, I have a lot to be thankful for, I have a growing business that I’m thankful for, a great family, a roof over my head, fantastic friends and enough money to get where I need to and to feed my family with a bit left over to donate and do good for others. We’ve opened our new office at 1230 Hillcrest Street, Suite 101, Orlando, Fl. 32803. Our new telephone number is 407-427-1800, we have added a new columnist Nouchelle Hastings and a new office manager Donna Bradley to our growing family.

On November 28th, the day that we’ll be reluctantly returning to work, the citizens of Guyana and St. Lucia will be going to the polls to vote. Whatever your leanings are politically, I am sure we all would like to ensure that the election process goes smoothly and without violence or confusion. I marvelled at the change in Government in Trinidad and Tobago as in Guyana we don’t have that simple a handover and people don’t react the way I saw the opposition respond in Trinidad &Tobago. However, my prayers are with the people in Guyana at this time, may they have the wisdom to make the right choice and the serenity to accept the results. On November 28th, and the rest of that week, I will be glued to the news for information about the results.

ubscribe to Caribbean American Passport News Magazine today.

Get the news delivered directly to your door each month!

For a limited time we are offering a one year subscription to CAP News Magazine at $25.00. This will also provide you with discounted admission to events, coupons for shopping at your favorite stores as well as updates on caribbean events coming up in our community.

This Christmas Season give the gift of a subscription to CAP NewsMagazine to someone and we will personalize a card to them from you in that gift package.

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

If you haven’t checked it out, it’s a hugely addictive soap opera, like most of Guyana’s news. But this shouldn’t underscore the real issues facing Guyana, some would like to suggest that it is racially motivated - I beg to differ. I have not felt race as an issue in all of my life time in Guyana, it might be prevalent in a different generation but not mine. The people who would like to suggest otherwise - I’d like them to look at it from the perspective of the issues being more corruption in Guyana than anything else. Think about it for a minute, I have friends from all different races who have been able to succeed in Guyana, I have others from all different races who have not been able to penetrate the club that gets the contracts in Guyana.

I know very good people on both sides of the major political parties in Guyana, people who had legitimate problems with both the PNC and the PPP, so how do I, one who didn’t live through those times judge which party is right and which is wrong. I can’t, I think those judgements have to be made by only the people who lived through those times. However, it’s too many voting cycles later to be judging any of those parties based on what they did 20 years ago. Before you vote, Guyana, take a closer look not at the past, but at what those parties have done for you in the past 5 - 10 years and the type of people involved in the party at this time, not based on the nostalia of by gone times. This year, Guyana seems to have a legitimate choice in a new party made up of some of the best of the older parties and some passionate younger people, I like the AFC, If I were in Guyana, I think that I’d be voting for that party. However, since I’m not I’d better look at the mess that’s going on in Politics right here and figure out how I get stuff done that impacts my life right here! To that end we’ve included the first in our series of making a difference in the election here in the US. Maybe I’ll see you at a rally here, or at a phone bank or getting myself deliberately arrested to make a point, as our Art Director, Jan described in her article. I can guarantee you that CAP NewsMagazine will be fighting to get the voice of the Caribbean Community heard, issues that affect your voting rights, immigration and quality of life will be addressed. Instead of debating the merits of elections back home...let’s get working on ensuring we affect this election here at home.

Enjoy this issue and from our family to yours whether you’re hoping that the light of Diwali illuminates your year ahead or wishing for Blessings on Eid Ul Adha or simply enjoying a Happy Thanksgiving, have a wonderful season!

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Please mail this subsciption with your check or money order to Caribbean American Passport News Magazine 1230 Hillcrest Street, Orlando, FL. 32803 • 407-427-1800 ❑ Yes this is a gift subscription from: _____________________________________________________

GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1230 Hillcrest Street, 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 ........................................................................................ Phillip Browne . .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell ................................... ...............................................Nouchelle Hastings Contributing Photographers .............................................. Sandy Isaacs ................................................................................Michelle Mohammed Distribution .................................................................... Samuel Roberts Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

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Divali Greetings to each and everyone from The Hon Prime Minister Mrs Kamla Persad Bissessar

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rime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar who was in Australia for the 2011 sitting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) has conveyed very special greetings to the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and to Hindu communities across the world on the joyous occasion of Divali.

From Perth, Australia, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar encourages all citizens to remember the simple but powerful message of Divali, which is a celebration of light over darkness and goodness over ignorance and evil, and urges all citizens to make a commitment each day to resist those negative forces that would seek to destroy the beauty and harmony of our beloved Nation.

The Prime Minister reminds us that there is much for which we must be thankful for in Trinidad and Tobago, as each of our religious and secular observances presents us with the opportunity for growth, for learning and to express gratitude that we able are to respect and appreciate each other’s traditions. Today we celebrate together in camaraderie - all races, all ethnicities, all religions in honour of the Hindu festival of Divali.

“On this special Divali day, I humbly ask you to become, within your own families and communities, lights of encouragement, lights of understanding and lights of unconditional love”.

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Domestic Violence Month, October, Came To An End But Awareness Should Never Stop

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dvocates of “Break the Silence, Say No to Violence” The group plans to be in Guyana early next year and intends group, Stella Ramsaroop (Columnist, Stabroek News) to work with those interested in bringing change to Guyana ‘s and Sukree Boodram (Author, Breakout: Surviving domestic violence landscape. Their personal passion on this Abuse and Alcoholism; This is my Story), met in Orlando at cause is unprecedented, honest and is here to stay. They exLife Worth Living Pharmacy on November 5th. This was the tend their thanks to those who participated in bringing awaregroups’ wrap up event in recognition of Domestic Violence ness and those who will participate in the future.

Awareness month. This event was attended by community leaders, For help in Florida , please contact who got information on where to the Harbor House of Central Florida obtain help, how to recognize 24-hour crisis line at 407-886-2856 or abuse, some of the signs of abuse toll free at 1-800-500-1119 . Haven and how to dialogue with a victim of Lake and Sumter Counties can be who is experiencing abuse. This sesreached at 352-753-5800 or toll free sion was informative with extremely 1-800-955-8771 . Florida Coalition candid discussions on a subject matAgainst Domestic Violence 24-hour ter difficult to talk about. Ms. Boodram hotline is 1-800-500-1119 . and Ms. Ramsaroop were open and very candid about their experiences.

You can read and learn more on the Their mission is to lead the way to our above agencies as well as help around future discussions on this subject. Centhe US and Guyana , including help tral Florida ‘s Harbor House also parfor families who may be dealing with ticipated in this event. Ms. Boodram’s the disease of alcoholism. Visit the regripping documentary was aired with source page at: http://www.sukree candid, unprepared questions from inboodram.com/resources/ terviewer Brandon Barnett. These sessions are vital in our community as Stella Ramsaroop, Stabroek News Columnist, Nouchelle Hastings, Caribbean American Passport CAP News Columnist, Sukree Boodram, Author, Break Out. we continue to bring awareness to our Magazine and Life Worth Living still silent community. The group Pharmacy were pleased to sponsor plans to host more of these sessions here in Orlando and in other the ‘Break the Silence, Say No to Violence’ November 5th event. parts of the US and Caribbean.

Their banner shares a simple message: ‘Stand up and be counted, let your voice be heard.’ It was seen in Florida several times beginning with the 2011 Grand Diwali Mela in Orlando , Florida on October 15th. A domestic violence desk with their banner was proudly displayed at this Orlando event. In addition, they joined alliances with various domestic violence shelters and agencies in Florida and New York this year to help in their outreach into our demographic communities. On October 29th they participated in “Walk for a Cause” march in New York City along with others to bring awareness to their message. Dianne Madray, (Mental Health Professional and the key founding member of this group) walked proudly with others in the rain and snow drenched streets of New York City with their message. On November 3rd the group was a key participant in a silent fundraising auction and community awareness event for the Haven of Lake and Sumter Counties , Florida , a domestic violence agency. They were able to bring awareness and share information from a global perspective.

The group is growing in strength as they add to the number of key supporters as well as to the number of victims who have been assisted. Their effort began in Guyana in 2010 with a rally and workshops to start a national conversation on domestic violence. They continue to move forward and will continue to include Guyanese communities globally. The team has plans to reach out to collaborate with other organizations to enhance the impact it has in the struggle against domestic violence.

The group regrets not being in Guyana this month as previously planned. They are eager to continue to bring awareness and share their 2012 plans. They would like their Guyanese community to understand their decision not to come to Guyana this month. A session that was scheduled to be held at the Pegasus Hotel on November 25th has been rescheduled to an undisclosed date in 2012. They are respectful of the upcoming election and stress the importance of our communities to be singularly focused on choosing the right leader for Guyana whose platform includes solid plans to mitigate domestic violence in the future.

They encourage all those who can vote to get out and cast their votes and have their voice be counted.

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American by birth, Caribbean by blood “Please don’t leave us out”

By Phillip Browne, Kissimmee/Poinciana Correspondent And they had the option of all the American dishes, which in-

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remember watching the Spike Lee movie “Malcolm X”, and at the end of the movie there were children of all races, color, and nationalities standing up saying, I AM MALCOLM X. These young people not only related to Malcolm X, but they felt a sense of belonging. Likewise, we have thousands of young people born here in America, to West Indian parents, who also not just relate but also feel a sense of belonging.

cluded Mc Donald’s and KFC etc. but almost all of their choices were Caribbean dishes. They spoke about their love for stew chicken and oxtails. Some could not decide between oxtails and curry goat which they loved best. Then one said, all the curries, goat, chicken, beef and shrimp. Then I asked about escovitch fish...oh yes yes how could I forget another said.

Then we switched our discussion to music. Here, even though they knew the names of more rappers and R and B artist, the music they The question is, do they belong in the Caribbean community, listened to the most was reggae. Soca was also very popular. and exactly where do they fit in? I remember speaking with Mrs. Roberts, and one of the biggest things she wants to accomplish with this newspaper is bringing the Caribbean community in Central Florida together. I was looking at my kids, and I asked myself where do they fit in? So I decided to get 6 children (3 girls and 3 boys) born in the United States to West Indian Then the young people generated their own conversation about parents to find out how they felt about their history. all the things their parents had told them about the Caribbean. With great excitement they spoke about the beautiful We spoke about the differences in both cultures. It ranged from beaches, mangoes, coconut water etc. the dances, the food, music, dialect and beliefs. The approaches to education, and the disciplining of children. They were all After listening to them for a while, I posed the question, “do pretty much asked the same questions, and their answers were you guys consider yourselves more American or Caribbean”. often similar. The conversations were long, so I will not cover To which one young person replied,”we are American by birth all, but give you a summary. but Caribbean by blood.”

They carry the flags of their parents’ country every chance they get. They are proud of us.

Question: Where were you born?

Answer: America.

Question: Where in America?

Answers: Brooklyn NY, Queens NY, Florida.

Question: So you are an American?

Answer: Yes

I asked, “should you be a part of the many discussions concerning the things that affect Caribbean people in this country?”

They all said yes. So I urge our adult Caribbean community not to forget the young ones. They carry the flags of their parents’ country every chance they get. They are proud of us. They appreciate and enjoy every cultural aspect of Caribbean life, and MUST be considered a part of the Caribbean community.

So I turned my attention to the type of foods they loved the most. They truly are, American By Birth, and Caribbean By Blood.

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Trini making moves in St. Thomas

By Bevan Springer New York Amsterdam News

levels of customer service.

Ali is a staunch West Indian who calls Virginia his home, but T. THOMAS, USVI (November he is inspired by the multicultural mix of the US territory which 3, 2011) - A Trinidadian hos- is home to numerous Caribbean nationals, which he believes, pitality professional in the makes St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix very attractive to the United States Virgin Islands is mak- Caribbean diaspora. ing his mark developing business and boosting service standards at With its familiar, undulating, gentle hills, easy access from the one of St. Thomas’ leading hotels US and the Caribbean, agreeable climate and ideal location, and resorts.

Ali contends the USVI is an appealing choice for all travelers: “It’s really one of those places where you can go through the Kashmie Ali prepared his rise to top 10 things you find in the Caribbean and you would find it prominence in the Caribbean ho- here ... so that makes it a huge plus for anyone who wants to tel firmament by amassing valu- have the best of all worlds.” able experience from his 10 years working in hospitality management in the United States be- The 47 year-old executive, who hails from Princess Town in fore moving to St. Lucia where he devoted close to five years to southern Trinidad, reports 70 percent of his guests request the Sandals Resorts as regional operations manager. all-inclusive experience at Sugar Bay, located in the East End of St. Thomas where short ferry rides connect residents and For another five years or so, it was uphill literally and figura- visitors to the eco-island of St. John. tively for Ali when he rose to director of operations for the fabled hilltop Anse Chastanet and its glittering, widely acclaimed, Featuring 294 spacious guest rooms and seven one-bedroom neighbor, Jade Mountain, in St. Lucia’s charming southern old suites, the resort also features six restaurants, an award-wincolonial town of Soufrière. ning full-service Journeys Spa, fresh water pools complete with waterfall and grotto, a secluded and intimate beach, superNow, Ali is applying his impressive international experience vised kids club and a state-of-the-art fitness center. as managing director of the 300-plus room, 40-acre Sugar Bay Resort & Spa in St. Thomas.

Kashmie Ali makes his rounds each day to ensure these resort attractions run smoothly, while at the same time looking at Kashmie Ali on property this week in St. Thomas. the future and more change he is managing. On his desk are plans requiring him to oversee a US$7 million upgrade of the Ali is a manager of change and recently presided over the tran- resort’s accommodations. sition of Wyndham Sugar Bay to an independently run and operated hotel whose performance levels have increased by No sneeze for the experienced managing director who manleaps and bounds over the past five months. ages to effect big changes for the better and almost effortlessly

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in his properties.

With two years under his belt in the US territory, Ali is enjoying an island that is part Caribbean and part American, in- Bevan Springer, a New York Amsterdam News columnist who writes frejecting his creativity and experience to upgrade the property’s quently on travel and tourism issues as well as the Caribbean Diaspora, facilities and motivating his team members to deliver high is the President of the New Jersey-headquartered Marketplace Excellence - a full service, integrated marketing firm committed to excellence in the fields of public relations, marketing and media coaching. He also produces the Caribbean Media Exchange on Sustainable Tourism - CMEx.

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Family curry cook off

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n 2008, Drs. Sadhana and Ram Ramcharran had a friendly curry cook off at their family reunion as a way to bring about some camaraderie and friendly competition among the family members. What they quickly recognized was that almost every one of the family members prepared their respective curries differently and they tasted different.

and Dr. Kiran Patel, becoming the Presenting Sponsor for this festival it was destined for success. Both organizations share the same passion and mission to help further education in the world and to create the opportunity for the less fortunate to have an opportunity to learn.

TBICF is confident with the support of the Tampa Bay business community, individuals, local and national sponsors various charities will benefit from the proceeds raised from this event which will go towards reducing world hunger and advancing global education.

Ever since that family occasion, they had this vision of having a major International curry festival in Tampa Bay to feature all ethnicity preparation of their version of curry.

Three years later Tampa Bay International Curry Festival(TBICF) is now a reality and with the success of this event, the goal is to make this an annual event which will help support varies charities.

This year, Orlando’s, Kash Ramnarain was the winner in the Amateur competitiion with a purse of $2500.00. In an interview with CAP NewsMagazine, Kash said “ My family played a large role in preparing for this competition and this win was in large part due to the contributions of my wife and parents, I’d like to give them a big thank you.”

With the support and involvement of Georgetown Wesleyan University of the Americas (GWUA) becoming the host of this event and the addition of the Patel Center for Global Solution

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ImmigrationTALK

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U.S. Visa Lottery Open from Oct 4th

Nov 5th

Fraud Indicators to Avoid in the Immigration Process interview process: (1) extreme nervousness; (2) over interaction; (3) lack of knowledge about basic questions; (4) late for interview; (5) answers prompted by attorney or other; (6) lack of interest/interaction; (7) eye contact; (8) evasive or general here are millions of immigration answers; (9) answers interrupted by attorney; and (10) attorpetitions processed by the U.S. De- ney attempt to distract/mislead. partment of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State. Un- In processing petitions, Immigration looks for the following fortunately, not all the petitions are general fraud indicators: (1) documents issued immediately good faith filings. In other words, many before interview; (2) documents issued immediately after inof these petitions are based on fraudu- terview; (3) over-submissions; (4) staged photographs; (5) suslent representations. Various reports indicate an increase in pect tax filings; (6) multiple applications by petitioner: (7) fraud among immigration filings processed in the United States preparer known or suspected of fraudulent filing (such as service providers/non-attorneys); (8) preparer and notary are the and at the U.S. Embassies. same person: (9) tip letter or phone call; and (10) previous filWhat types of fraud are we talking about? (1) Marriages ing denied by abandonment or withdrawal. that are not based on love but rather a business arrangement to help the beneficiary get legal status in the U.S.; (2) The following are common I-130 family based petition fraud parental and sibling relationships established using fraudu- indicators: (1) short time between entry and marriage: (2) unlent documents such as birth certificates; (3) applications usual marriage history; (3) children born during marriage to for non-immigrant visas (such as tourist visas, work visas, other parent; (4) unusual number of children and large disetc.) using fraudulent business documents to establish strong crepancy in age; (5) unusual dates on submitted documents; ties to native country; and (4) misrepresentations to an Of- (6) divorce/new marriage dates close; (7) large age discrepancy between spouses; (8) unusual cultural differences; (9) same ficer during questioning to gain an immigration benefit. employer of petitioner/beneficiary; and (10) unusual associaFraud can be detected in various stages of the immigration tions between family members. process - submission of petitions, pre-interview, post-interview, admission at the U.S. port of entry, deferred inspection, and Petitioners and beneficiaries are urged not to engage in fraud or misrepresentations, as they will be subject to jail, fines, and removal/deportation proceedings. visa denial. Send your comments and feedback to Beware of the following behavioral fraud indicators during the Gail@Go2Lawyer.com

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

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IT’S ALSO GREAT FUN TO Hitting the streets READ EVERYONE ELSE’S!!! ‘cause voting alone just doesn’t cut it!

THE SLOGANS FOR THE SIGNS ARE FUN TO CREATE...

By Jan Smiley It’s safe, it’s a rush, it’s rewarding and it’s making history!

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he Civil Rights Bill was passed and the Vietnam War was ended because good people turned out in the streets. In the case of the 60’s antiwar movement, it was started by students but ended up involving everyone: teachers, doctors, truck drivers, shopkeepers, grandmas and grandpas. When 500,000 people marched on the White House (and lesser numbers in cities across the nation), it scared the living hell out of not only President Nixon but the Congress. Soon after that the war ended.

One very important thing everyone needs to know: You won’t get arrested unless you want to.

When you hear of protesters getting arrested, it virtually never happens unless they plan it. The police give fair and repeated warning to leave, disperse, or whatever, and the small group of protesters lock arms and refuse to obey. The police in this country are well aware that the TV news reporters are running their cameras, and these days countless people are videoing with their cell phones. If the cops are caught being abusive, they will be suspended or lose their jobs.

Any news reports you may have seen of police being aggressive in this city have always happened after hours. Plus, the police are somewhat sympathetic this time—thousands of them are being laid off in cities nationwide

It’s noisy and maybe even messy; it might be inconvenient to some, but at times our elected representatives fail us.

My favorite chant from the protests: (call & response) “Tell me democracylook looklike!” like!”

“Tell mewhat whatdoes democracy “THISisiswhat whatdemocracy democracy looks “THIS lookslike!” like!”

Why? Because they wanted to keep their jobs.

Many senators and representatives realized that popular opinion was going to boot them out of office unless they changed their ways. So the majority deserted their corporate buddies and brought the insanity that was the Vietnam War to a halt.

and their unions are under attack by republicans in many places.

Citizen or not, you can always turn out in the streets. If you’re not able to walk a few miles, get a used wheelchair and a good friend to push you—like I did. Caroline Roe (top), Jan Smiley (below). Photo by Louise Mills.

The numerous protests happening across the country are giving the unemployed, the uninsured, the evicted, indebted students, homeless veterans, future retirees and concerned people in general a place to express themselves and an avenue to right wrongs.

Occupy movements across the USA show that millions care and are standing up, which unleashes enormous power. It’s a very moving experience!

Now our troubles aren’t just war. The problems seem to be countless. But whatever the crisis is, it seems to trace back to the abusive power of the one percent over the rest of us—the seemingly helpless 99 percent.

As of this writing, But we aren’t helpno events are on less. We can do the Occupy Orlando’s same thing as the calendar, but keep discontented people checking: http://www. in the 60’s if we all occupyorlando.org/ ban together and hit the streets with Jan Smiley was state Occupy Orlando. president of Peace & That’ll be the wakeJustice for 8 years. up call. Voting will Occupy Orlando demonstration November 5 in downtown Orlando.

Photo by Jack Smiley.

She has had one be the clincher. book published & was editor of Just Peace, the Florida peace & Mark my words, we will make history. justice newspaper for 10 years. She is presently art director of The country has seen so many different ongoing protests by Caribbean Passport. disgruntled and disenfranchised people this past year that they’re hard to keep up with. Whatever issue you care to name, Just a few election wins gained by dedicated activists from war (thanks to the power of the military-industrial n Mississippi, voters rejected a far-reaching "personhood" amendment complex) to a watered-down health care bill (thanks to big that would have targeted almost all sexually active women as crimipharmaceutical and health insurance corporations), from a nals. Under the state Constitution, the most common forms of birth conand and the most common in vitro fertilization practices would have failing economy (which Wall Street and corporations have trol been made illegal among other impacts. depleted out of greed) to racist immigration and union-busting n an Ohio referendum widely regarded as a bellwether for progressive laws, the power of the one percent is at the root of the problem. politics, over 2 million voters chose to repeal Gov. John Kasich’s unionAnd the power of the 99 percent is the solution. busting Senate Bill . By comparison, fewer than 1.9 million voters chose

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Gov. Kasich in last year’s election.

And the people are winning! Last week’s elections saw big wins for progressives around the country, who blocked right-wing measures on issues of voting, labor, immigrant and women’s rights. (See the breakdown of some of last week’s election returns on right.)

Recent protests by Occupy Orlando have drawn around 2000 people from all walks of life—an amazing number for this city.

And the numbers from other more progressive cities are easily 10 times that, adding up to millions nationwide. Virtually every big city in the nation has its 99 percent demonstrations, with the die-hard participants continuing the effort 24/7.

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aine voters reinstated the right to register to vote on Election Day, a law that had been in place for four decades until Gov. Paul LePage (R) signed legislation to change it. n Arizona, State Sen. Russell Pearce (R), the controversial architect of Arizona's immigration law that required police to check the immigration status of anyone they suspect is in the country illegally. was defeated by Jerry Lewis, a fellow Republican who does not support the immigration crackdown. Pearce was the top Republican in the state Senate.

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n Michigan, state Rep. Paul Scott (R) lost his seat in a close recall election. As chairman of the House Education Committee, Scott was targeted by the Michigan Education Association for policies that weakened teacher tenure and cut education funding.

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Grand Diwali Mela at Ocoee High School

Rick Singh calls for more Political activity in the Asian-American Hotel Owners Association

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But this was not a campaign speech; it was about a community needing to increase its political activity. “I was born in Georgetown, Guyana, where the idea of Economic opportunity and free elections was one we could only dream of. I still remember being a child, going with my dad to vote, and watching him be escorted to the ballot box by armed guards. I knew, There was talk about hotel-specific issues, such as online hotel even then as a young child, freedom was something you had booking prices, and the taxes collected by online companies to earn,” Mr. Singh said. like Expedia, as compared to the amount charged to the hotels directly. But the highlight of the evening was a keynote “The Asian-American community has worked hard to make speech by Rick Singh, a candidate for the Orange County Prop- our mark, and we have done so...I am proud to say that we are erty Appraiser’s office. part of the core fabric of the American business community.

However, now it is our responsibility to make sure that we beMr. Singh was asked to address the group on a very important come part of the political fabric as well.” issue to many minority communities in the 21st century; the lack of political representation and civic activity that have Mr. Singh pointed out that “Asian-Americans are, as a minordefined whole generations of those communities. ity group, the best educated in America. We have the highest rate of high school and college graduation, highest rate of colMr. Singh had a captive audience that night; a room filled with lege enrollment, and we are one of the groups most likely to business owners who rely on tourism and travel, and are now start our own business...However, at that same time, we are struggling through a tough economic situation. Many politi- the group least likely to run for or win public office.” cians would have taken this opportunity to blame others (espe- With a difficult campaign season ahead, candidates like Rick cially their opponents), but Rick Singh took a different route.

Singh must fight for every vote. They do not have the same kind of base that other candidates have, because their comHe opened by welcoming the audience, and went on to declare “I munity is not as used to getting politically active. But Mr. am running for this office because I am an appraiser; it’s what I Singh’s thoughts are in the right place; if a community is gohave done as a professional for the last 17 years. And now...I ing to be powerful, they must get involved, and ensure that have a chance to use my skills to help others and give back.” their voices are heard. n Thursday, November 3, the Asian-American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) gathered for a regional convention in Orlando, Florida. While there were meetings about business issues, and plenty of meet-and-great events, the political issues that they face as a community were at the forefront.

Rick Singh, Candidate for Orange County Property Appraiser, at his Diwali Dinner and Dance with performances by Vishal Vaid - Ustad Rahis Khan , and Ustad Iqbal Hussain

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Diwali Mela at Lake Eola

Miss Diwali Florida, by Indo Caribbean Center

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St. Lucia Cabinet Grants Concessions on Barrels for Festive Season

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he public is informed that St. Lucia approved the granting of Duty Free Concessions on the importation of Barrels for the traditional festive season. The following are the conditions: 1. 100% Waiver of Import Duty and Consumption Tax on unsolicited personal items, food, clothing and toys contained in barrels imported between 1st November, 2011 and 31st January, 2012. Electronic items are explicitly excluded; 2. The number of barrels that would qualify for the concessions would be limited to two (2) per household; 3. There would be an upper limit of EC$2,000.00 per barrel on the value of items qualifying for the concessions; 4. The items identified in one (1) above must be for personal use only, and not for commercial use; and 5. The usual penalties, fines, etc. would be applied if the goods are used for commercial purposes.

The granting of concessions on “Christmas Barrels� is a usual gesture of goodwill by the St. Lucian Government at this time of year. The concessions are designed to bring relief ahead of the festive season.

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www.caccfl.com

Caribbean Chamber of Commerce

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s a new business owner, your local Small Business De-velopment Center may be the most valuable resource at your disposal. An outreach organization that combines the efforts of local educational institutions, federal and state governments, local businesses, Chambers of Commerce and business organizations, Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) offer a wide range of services, including educational opportunities, advice and counseling.

The best way to start discovering the resources available through your local SBDC is to contact them directly. You can find the one nearest you by visiting the SBA’s web site (www.sba.gov) and looking under the local resources section. There you will be able to locate SBDC’s all over the country. Their services are almost always free.

Services frequently offered by SBDCs include assisting small businesses with:

Caribbean-American owned businesses sprouting up despite recession

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ady Dee and the One Stop Family has a radio show, tv show, restaurant and now a gas station. Naresh is known as the owner of Minute Man press, his wife an Attorney, but recently they opened Soiree Banquet Hall and Convention Center. Carol Singh, the current President of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, just opened a gift basket business—Whimsies, newly reopened—Oley's Kitchen and Smokehouse, new Majestic Banquet Hall on the corner of John Young and Colonial Drive, Mangos, a new Caribbean restaurant just opened their doors, Micheal and Elizabeth, owners of Life Worth Living Pharmacy are expanding and building a Wellness Center in the same building, Hari Singh recently opened a Caribbean Cultural Center for keeping our culture alive.

We haven’t listed in that group, dance studios that have opened, the small business owners who are Promoters and do show after show to make money.

· Solving financial, marketing, production, organization, engineering and technical problems · International trade assistance · Technical assistance · Procurement assistance · Venture capital formation · Rural development SBDCs also make special efforts to reach minority members of socially and economically disadvantaged groups, veterans, women and the disabled.

Assistance is provided to both current or potential small business owners. The organization also can help with perhaps the most important part of starting a new business: acquiring funding. Specifically, they can help you apply for Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) grants from federal agencies as well as help you locate other sources of funding.

“Small business development centers are a very valuable resource,” said Luanne Mayorga, Manager of the Illinois International Trade Center at the College of DuPage in Lisle, Ill. “They are usually located on college campuses and not only are their services free, but they are all confidential.”

The centers are especially helpful in keeping business owners up to date on legislation and regulatory changes affecting businesses, Mayorga told BusinessNewsDaily.

Another valuable service offered through the SBDC is SCORE, which stands for Service Corps of Retired Executives. SCORE is a group of retired business people with expertise in every aspect of business operations who are available to mentor you for free.

You can meet with them in person or chat with them on-line.

The Caribbean- American community is among a growing legion of minorities in Florida who have taken the recession in stride and decided to go into business for themselves. The number of minority-owned businesses in Florida climbed 66 percent, outpacing the national growth rate of 45 percent, between 2002 and 2007, according to the lstatistics available from the Census Bureau.

Conventional wisdom would hold that the downturn in the economy would turn away would-be entrepreneurs. But, instead it is prompting minorities to strike out on their own. In Central Florida, the Caribbean American Community has been responsible for the setting up of two new shipping companies in this area - Seafreight and Amerijet, both large companies with offices in Miami are now open in the Central Florida area. Caribbean Airlines has added jobs to this area too, by starting flights from Orlando to Jamaica, Trinidad and Guyana twice per week, they have had to set up a terminal at Orlando International Airport.

“I’m happy that the recession hit,” said Guenet Gittens-Roberts, president of GGR Marketing and Publisher of Caribbean American NewsMagazine. “It forced me to get out of my comfort zone and led to me following my dreams.”

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The Caribbean American Association of Lake County held their 3rd Annual Banquet on November 5th, 2011

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o find out more about this association visit www. caalc.org or call 352-978-0813, OR VISIT US AT their NEXT GENERAL MEETING: Every 3rd Saturday of each month, 7: 00 pm, Highlander Hut, 330 Third Street, Clermont, Fl, 34711.

Our Gift to You! Special Lower Holiday Rates on Barrels

We Have Moved!!!

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Laparkan Orlando/PS Freight 1934 Silver Star Road Orlando, FL 32804 (407) 298-9887 orlando@laparkan.com

Grace under pressure

By Marlon Miller Trinidad Guardian

And, now, the entire State of Emergency exercise is mostly reduced to destroying marijuana plantations.

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As another friend exclaimed: “I never see a weed plant shoot anybody!”

EVEN weeks into the State of Emergency and most people have got accustomed to the regulated hours of the curfew.

Limers who used to leave the pavement on Ariapita Avenue at minutes to 11 are now setting out for home at 10.15. But you know they’re still stopping at the last open watering hole on the Avenue for a night cap.

Others who are getting on in age and soon to hit 50 years old say they don’t mind the restrictions.

“You get to bed early and wake up fresh in the morning.”

Another who has had his share of run-ins with the law over the years and now seems to be a respectable citizen says they should leave the State of Emergency for a year to make sure it really serves its purpose.

What, you mad?! You don’t know that other people are already thinking about Carnival and getting a bit worried.

But that’s another story.

And you think about the major consignment from Jamaica discovered in a container at Point Lisas. As another acquaintance-who likes to keep the Letters Editor busy-enquired, how come our law-enforcement officers didn’t let the shipment of “chicken” be delivered and see what transpired.

Who knows, they might have hooked a big fish to throw among all the sardines scattered in jails throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

But not enough to stop all murders, rapes and other capital crimes, committed now even under curfew.

Sure, there has been a reduction in all of the above, but how many of

In the meantime, the poor PNM had its request to hold a public meeting turned down. And for the first time in a while people will T&T’s small percentage of hardened criminals are listen to what Keith Rowley has to say and not study Colm Imbert’s still out there, waiting to pounce, undetected and slink back into the night. school- boy behaviour in the Parliament on Budget Day.

“I never see a weed plant shoot anybody!”

In the interim, everyone who claims to be law-abiding has to manoeuvre around the hours under lockdown and keep himYou think if Kamla Persad-Bissessar wants to win another gen- self or herself entertained. eral election she is going to leave the SoE until next February, Near the end of last month, one young wife looked out her far less Christmas. window and saw a few vanloads of her husband’s friends arOne guy said that election would be in 2012 instead of 2015 if riving at her house just before 11 p.m., so you know they had the People’s Partnership fools around with the people’s party. nowhere to go for the next five hours at least.

That fella has already planned that when the curfew is finally lifted, he will leave home just before 11 o’clock to go to a fete “And they were all drunk...and hungry,” she recalled, not sounding too upset by the whole scenario. and not head back until 4 a.m.

But back to things of more importance, like Carnival.

Another bunch who likes to play cards planned to have a poker game at someone’s house between the curfew hours, but then It goes without saying that for the first few nights of the 9 p.m. the host and hostess thought about what would happen if they curfew in the week after August 21, the Indianapolis Motor were losing and had nowhere to go but listen to the loud mouth Speedway had nothing on the Mucurapo Foreshore, or the of one rather boisterous player who usually strikes it lucky.

Churchill-Roosevelt Highway, or any other open stretch of road So they changed it to an afternoon session and fried a turkey with a house at the end of it. and, there were so many cooks giving advice, they underAnd, sadly, there have been unnecessary fatalities since that cooked the rather large bird and the designated chefs had to day when Kamla, John Sandy and Anand Ramlogan put their wire it together with the skill of old Carnival costume-makers feet down and said “Enough is enough” with rampant crime. like Cito Velazquez or Harold Saldenha to put it back into the And even sadder is that innocent lives have been lost in the fryer. And someone joked that they might get the turkey in time for Thanksgiving. mad dash to beat the curfew.

“And I’ll be taking my time driving home.”

What about those who had to spend a few weeks inside the state prisons in detention-which is what House Speaker Wade Mark should have given Imbert-when the only thing some of these detainees did wrong was reside in a certain area, like the young footballer from Beetham Gardens.

An inspiration to the youth in the neighbourhood, Keon Quow is thankfully still smiling and, hopefully, not too scarred by the whole scary experience of being arrested and detained at Golden Grove.

It finally was ready for serving just before 10 p.m. and a lovely meal was had by all, capping off a rather enjoyable evening of old talk, picong and plenty laughter.

As it is in most every part of Trinidad and Tobago where adaptable Trinbagonians have displayed grace under pressure, all in the hope of finding a better T&T at the end of the State of Emergency.

Those in charge had better get it done before Christmas, though.

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

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I’ve been working too hard lately

By Howard Sadler Owner, Caribbean Finder

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’ve been working too hard lately. Health scares, whether my own or another’s, are good at reminding me of when I’m pushing too far. How far is too far you might ask, and if you did I would have no clear answer. To work too hard, can mean many different things depending on the person, and the year, and the situation.

Working too hard, could be working for one more day, if all you have is one day left. Working too hard, could be working at all, if your work is interfering with your health. Working too hard, could be being too busy with work to see a friend or a loved one on their death bed. Working too hard, could mean missing all of your child’s games. Working too hard could mean forgetting what you are working so hard for.

The reasons vary, but we are all guilty of working too hard from time to time. It’s a little early for a new year’s resolution, but I have resolved to work as hard at living my life as I do at working with it every day. I hope everyone who reads these words can join me.

Creating a healthy balance is what I strive to obtain, even though this most times proves to be a challenge. When working too hard presents itself in the form of illness we have no choice but to listen. Recently I had a health scare and had to listen to the message that my body was telling me. “Slow down” was what it was shouting loud and clear. Luckily it wasn’t anything that a little rest and relaxation could not heal.

At the end of the day we all have to work to survive. But we all have to find a balance that provides us with wellness and happiness. We all need to conscientiously make time for ourselves and our love ones.

I read this recently and would love to share with you.

The Dalai Lama, when asked what surprised him most about humanity, he said: “Man. Because he sacrifices his health in order to make money.

Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.

And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived.”

There’s No Place Like Home. . .

New Homes, Resales, Townhomes & Short Sale Specialist Florida & New Jersey

Tracy Hampstead Realtor®, CSP

Cell: 407-803-3137 Direct: 407-445-7024 e-Fax: 407-992-7024 tracy.hampstead@earthlink.net

5979 Vineland Rd., #101 • Orlando, FL 32819

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The Well of Hope Pine Hills Premier Place to Take a Drink

By Nouchelle Hastings

The local Chairs, Darrell Butler and Nouchelle Hastings are pleased that the faith-based partnerships is filled with promn the evening of July 16, 2011 lightning struck the ise and dedication to changing the landscape of our Reserve at Indian Hill. The lightning bolt would cause children’s future. a major fire in the attic above one of the third floor apartments that would burn down in to the apartment itself And children who long for their parents who are incarcerated and begin to spread throughout the southeast wing of the can finally connect and be comforted to know they are cared building. The residents had to be evacuated but seeing as for by the outside world. COURTCARE a ministry of the Well there is no outdoor shelter at the facility, over 65 seniors of Hope is partnering with but not limited to Justice for All. and their visiting families were displaced from their apart- When you let us know that your loved one is on the inside of ments into the rain. On that same evening several members the Orange County system and will have no one to stand with of The Well of Hope’s leadership team, as well as their visit- them on their court dates, we will be there. We will offer prayer, ing guests, friends and family were gathered for the rehearsal counseling and attention to the family on the outside and of a wedding that would take place the next afternoon. See- show our smiling faces and physical bodies when your loved ing the situation at hand, those gathered for the rehearsal one stand before the judicial system at court. We are conwent out into the rain to determine what could and needed necting, collecting and directing families through the restorto be done. After some belabored moments and conversa- ative process. tion between the management of the apartment complex and the fire department it became understood that the se- In addition to that portion is the partnership with Right Where niors needed to get out of the rain and away from the smoke You Are Business Development for Female Inmates and Outand therefore should seek refuge inside the church. The Well reach, which Deanna Thompson, newly from Los Angeles has of Hope team provided water, coffee, and even blankets and a knack for...... “The Pine Hills area will not go down in history towels to the wet and cold seniors. As time progressed an- as Crime Hills, it’s a lie and a stigma and I’m ready to help other opportunity to serve the seniors presented itself as one bring the people out” says Deanna. of the female residents complained she had not had an opportunity to eat since the evacuation, and thusly could not With all of these wonderful Godly initiatives, the Well of Hope take her medicine. Immediately the team put together a plan is Pine Hills Premier Place to take a Drink, we look forward to to get the seniors fed and found their way to the local seeing your face around campus during our service times on Hardee’s restaurant after receiving no assistance from the Sunday’s at 10:00 - 11:30am, Wednesday’s at 6:30-7:30pm with local McDonalds. The owner of Hardee’s authorized the Prayer Thirst Quencher from 5:30-6:30pm or whenever you feel management to donate what they could, and that donation like having coffee in our café, or a cool drink of water, stop by came in the form of more than enough double cheesebur- the Well, you will never thirst again. gers, and French fries to feed all who were present. The seniors and their visiting families were able to eat until they were satisfied and were kept company by The Well of Hope team until they received the clearance to re-enter the facility. It is moments like this when we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God is present and active in the Pine Hills community. As Rev. DaRon Dixon, Pastor of The Well of Hope put it, “If I ever had any doubt that God was with us in what we were doing, it was certainly erased tonight”

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The Well of Hope is making an impacting difference in the lives of the community and their families. The 5 acre property is home to the Titans football team for practice and cheerleading. The young players are free to move about the campus and have use of clean restrooms, food and a safe place to wait for their parents.

There are also three new ventures and collaborations that the Well of Hope is leading the way and supporting. Coming in 2012 RU4Kidz Child Development Center, a ministry of the Well of Hope will open its doors. This center will be two-fold. It will house the daily roster children but also serve as a hub for parents needing childcare while they go on job interviews. The Director, Renee Chung a child care professional of nearly fifteen years is excited to partner with the Well and looks forward to helping families find restoration and is seeking other ways to get daily physical education to fight child hood obesity awareness on the 5 acre property.

The Well of Hope also houses on its campus the offices of Greater Orlando CARES Circle, a circle for Susan Taylor’s foundation, National CARES Mentoring Movement (www.cares mentoring.org). The National CARES Mentoring Movement, one of the fastest and highly recognized movements for mentoring and youth development that is saving our generation one child at a time by connecting, collecting and directing mentors to mentor organizations that empower our youth.

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Pine Hills Karate Club has major success at anti-drug tournament

By Virginia Elizabeth Williams Administrator Bassai Karate Dojo

Kata, Robbie McDermott- 1st place kata and Kumite; Sariayah Martin -1st Place, kata; Samuel Bridges- 1st Place Kumite, 2nd place Kata; Razane Easland- 2nd place, Kata and Kumite.

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All members of the small delegation placed in the Youth Central Connection 9th annual karate tournament.

This was Amy’s first competition. She is 15 years and a straight ‘A’ student at Ocoee High School, Florida. She has been practicing karate since she was five years. Her mother is Indira Ramlogan, is a three -time Trinidad and Tobago National kata champion. She performed Rohai ( heron) kata, the same one Indira did at her first tournament in 1987.

Her next event is the December 3rd .

They are Amy Williams - 2nd Place Advance

For more information call 407-953-4237.

embers of Bassai Karate Dojo (BKD)-Pine Hills led

by Darryl Williams were all victorious at the popular ‘What’s My Anti-Drug ‘Karate Tournament in Orlando, Florida on November 5th. The event took place at the Carter Tabernacle Church.

Poinciana News Fleming said, “one of my husbands family members”.

By Phillip Browne Kissimmee/Poinciana Correspondent

Although Mrs. Fleming prefers the faster pace of New York, being able to fulfill a dire need for her Caribbean people brings her great joy. Mr. Fleming on the other hand, who does most of the cooking said he can adapt to anywhere. However, he is glad they chose Poinciana and really appreciates the welcome they received from the Caribbean community.

I remember stopping by and mentioning that a Caribbean organization in the community was having a 3 day funcCARIBBEAN PEOPLE tion. Mrs. Fleming without hesitation said,” find out if they GOING ABOVE & need us to provide any food and we would take care of one BEYOND entire night.” They are always open to selling tickets for conver the summer there was a camp at the “Poinciana certs, or having posters and flyers placed in their window.

Pentecostal Church”. The kids took part in a number This is exactly the type of business and people we need in our of activities. There were indoor games, outdoor games, community. Whether or not you need to purchase food, please and hiking trips. But focus was not lost on education. stop by and tell them how much the Caribbean community appreciates all that they do. The address is: 4683 Old PleasEnter Sandra Parsons who I call the super volunteer, and the ant Hill Rd, Poinciana. kids call Auntie Sandra. Mrs. Sandra Parsons has been involved in education all her life. As a student at St Joseph conWORLD RENOWNED PIANIST, RAY LUCK IN vent in Trinidad, she tutored many of her fellow classmates.

CONCERT IN POINCIANA She then worked for the Trinidad and Tobago ministry of education for many years.

The Queen’s College Alumni Association of Central Florida & The Solivita African Heritage Cultural Club Educational Fund, After moving to New York over 20 years ago she started tutor- Inc hosted Concert Pianist Ray Luck ing again. She has tutored all the way from New York to Florida.

Given the opportunity to tutor the kids at the summer camp Born in Guyana, South America, Ray Luck studied at the Royal she was delighted, and asked for nothing in return.

College of Music in London and later at the Paris Conservatoire where he won first prizes in piano and chamAuntie Sandra came everyday for a few weeks and tutored from ber music. Subsequently he was awarded a Countess of 1st grade to 8th grade. So we acknowledge Mrs. Sandra Par- Munster scholarship to study with the British pianist, Denis sons aka “auntie Sandra” for giving back to our Caribbean Matthews. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree from London community. I would encourage anyone with a struggling child University and in 1978 he received the Doctor of Music deto call Auntie Sandra @407-780-4583 or 407-847-9870 for free gree from Indiana University. or reduced rate tutoring.

After emerging as a prizewinner at the Geneva International NEW YORK’S LOSS WAS POINCIANA’S GAIN Piano Competition in 1967, Ray Luck performed widely in New York’s loss was Poinciana’s gain when Triple Flavors Jamai- Europe, North America, South America, and the Caribbean. can Restaurant moved to Florida. What started in New York in He has appeared as soloist with the Suisse Romande Orchestra 1998, and was quite successful, migrated to Florida. I asked own- and the Paris Conservatoire Orchestra. ers “Robbie Fleming and Grace Fleming” ( who are husband and wife), of all places in Florida what led them to Poinciana. Mrs. Phillip Browne can be contacted at phildtril@aol.com or 407-508-1436.

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Bring the entire Family out to Fireside Choka Christmas Concert December 10th

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riple S Entertainment's event - Fireside Choka, Christmas is set to be a huge event. At the last Triple S Entertainment event at Soiree, it was a packed crowd of all ages and this one is proving to be no exception. This will be the first time Big Rich & Spread Pal Crew will be in Orlando and excitement has built to hear them perform. Orlando's top dance studios - Diya International, Nach Veda and Maya will also be performing as a part of this family styled Christmas Concert.

Organizer, Anganie promises that "all children under 4' will get a free gift from Santa, we encourage you to bring your mom, dad, aunty, uncle, grandma and grandpa out to this Christmas Concert."

To truly enjoy the experience, call around, get the family together, reserve your table so that you can sit and watch or dance and then sit again, while you enjoy the entertainment both on stage and on the dance floor.

There are a limited amount of tables available, so call Anganie to reserve one: 352-217-6505

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President Obama Initiates New Housing Plan With Executive Order

By Roger Caldwell

loan and find a bank for financing.

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Many experts are frustrated with the president because they feel he is not focused on the special problems that impact people of color.

Preet Vissa is a community reinvestment director at the Greenlining a public policy research and advocacy group said; “Its hard to know what would have happened had there been no programs. But the impact has been almost negligible, particularly in hardest hit states or communities of color. Much more needs to be done.”

resident Obama has a new catchphrase entitled, “We can’t wait.” He has decided to circumvent congressional opposition by using his executive orders to implement a new plan for homeowners. It is projected that this new plan will help 1 million to 1.6 million homeowners struggling with refinancing a mortgage under water or they need a better percentage rate on an existing mortgage.

When President Obama talks about a new plan or program, there are never numbers that explain how many people of color the new initiative helps. Many housing experts of color say the administration needs programs that will level the playing field, because Blacks The changes will be managed by the Federal Housing Finance and Hispanics are the hardest hit during the housing market crash.

Agency, which oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This plan falls under the Home Affordable Refinance Program, and to be President Obama has also admitted that too little has been eligible a homeowner must be current on their payments on done to tackle the housing issue and that his administration their mortgage. The federal refinancing program only covers has provided too little support to distressed homeowners. “The mortgages created before June 2009, and owned or backed by continuing decline in the housing market is something that Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. hasn’t bottomed out as quickly as we expected. The administration’s programs are not enough, and we’re going White House spokesman Jay Carney told reporters, “When Con- back to the drawing board,” says President Obama. gress won’t act, this president will. Many homeowners are going to be helped by this, they will be very grateful for the assistance The president is aware that there is no simple solution to the that will allow them to refinance at today’s low rates.” The ad- housing market crash. Today many of the homes are worth ministration is also extending the Home Affordable Refinance half of what the homeowner paid for when they bought the Program to 2013, and it initially was slated to end in 2012. house. In the president’s new plan the homeowner’s house must be worth 80% of the market value to qualify for the program.

Everyone in the country knows that the housing market is stag- Also to qualify for the program your credit must be good, and nant and sluggish, and hurting the economic recovery. This in a 12 month period you can only be late once. As the proplan looks good on paper but many feel there are too many gram is rolled out, I am sure there will be other rules that will rules that are stringent and many homeowners will not qualify. make it hard to get approved for the program. Even though Even though there are record-low interest rates and govern- the president is saying, “We can’t wait,” Americans will have ment programs to help homeowners, it is still hard to get a to wait and see if the new program is credible.

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