Caribbean american passport news magazine feb 2015

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The Marley Legacy

By Aleia Roberts

NEWS MAGAZINE

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Legends of West Indies Cricket they appeared at a well supported Banquet Dinner and an exhibition game in South Florida. The weekend was a tribute to the vision and commitment of event or-

istory was created as the legends of the West Indies Cricket lived up to the hype and fulfilled all expectations when Brian Lara

ebruary 6th marked the day that the legendar y Bob Marley would have celebrated his 70th birthday. The gifted reggae artist, songwriter, and activist touched the lives of many through his music and his message, long after he has passed. Marley introduced the world to reggae, and on February 6th social media across the globe was full of tributes to his great legacy; in the form of pictures, quotations, and more.

The Marley legacy lives on today, as his eldest son Ziggy Marley took home his seventh Grammy at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards. Ziggy Marley has successfully made a name for himself as one of the genre’s leading artists, also renowned around the world. He and his siblings formed the band “Melody Makers”

— Continued on page 19 —

The legends - Sir Wes Hall - Brian Lara - lawrence Rowe - Sir garfield Sobers and Derrick Murray

Front row, Gordon Greenidge, Faud Bacchus, Lawrence Rowe, Brian Lara, Ricardo Powell Second Row, Daren Ganga, Ronnie Sarwan, Carlisle Best, Larry Gomes, Alvin Kallicharan Third row, Albert Padmore, Manager, Sir Anderson Roberts, Wavell Hinds, Nixon Mclean, Collis King Mervyn Dillon

Continued on page 15

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L I F E S T Y L E Sam Roberts, Publisher

Finding Your Inner Peace

By Sam Roberts eace, how important is it for you to have inner peace? In many of my previous editorials I’ve discussed and outlined the importance of setting priorities, focusing on the important aspects of your life, taking responsibility, etc, etc. However, let’s start at point ‘0’, the beginning of any and all actions you take start with you. Therefore to make sure that that first step or that first word in coming from the right place or with the right intension we should be starting with ourselves; to quote Michael Jackson – “the man in the mirror” or in this case the person you see in the mirror when you look at yourself – start from that point, start with your own inner peace.

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

feeling of satisfaction and comfort, is it a good ole fashioned home cooked meal, or is it green mango with salt and pepper?

Step 1 - Your personal challenge, take an hour each day to find that spot where the smell is just right, the sounds are perfect, when the sun is setting or rising and just sit there, don’t speak or do anything but just be there with your own thoughts and enjoy the moment.

Step 2 - Control, do you really control your life? Your heart beats and your brain functions but do you really control it? We are all part of the larger spectrum of life. How we view life and how we view others can make a tremendous difference in our inner peace.

Let’s try this for the next 5 days: • • •

avoid judging others view everyone you meet as your true equal spend more time listening to others, hear what they are saying and just be a great listener give a helping hand to others who may need it avoid stressful environments and people stay away from anything negative; TV, News, Movies, Music, People…anything wake up every morning and simply take a deep breath and be thankful for that breath stop every hour on the hour, for just a minute. Take that deep breath and be thankful

• • To truly understand what it means to have inner peace, it takes • meditation, it take self-evaluation and it takes, in many cases, changing the way we view life. As part of my personal new • year’s resolution I wanted to make every effort to improve myself inside and out, so I looked into joining a gym, changing my • diet, changing my working and eating habits and changing and changing and changing – still haven’t selected the right gym or diet or many of the other things on my list of new year’s ‘To Do List’….these things take time, you don’t want to I personally guarantee that by the 5th day you’ll see your life rush these major life changing decisions so I expect to have differently and you’ll be one step closer to finding that inner most of the list done before Christmas 2015, just in-time to peace that will make you the best person you can be and you’ll create my new New Year’s list – just kidding. However, in my be on the path to living your best life, whether you hit the gym efforts for self-improvement I came across a book by Dr. Wayne or diet or all of those other things we think make us happy.

W. Dyer titled ‘Change Your Thoughts Change Your Life’ Living the Wisdom of the Tao. Dr. Dyer is deep, I mean real deep and his message is sometimes too deep for a casual reader or listener and it takes a deeper level of concentration and focus to truly get his message. But, I’ll try my best to summarize what I’ve gained from his teachings.

“Change the way you view the world and make a more focused effort to become in sync with our natural world”, this is the message that is repeated throughout the book and it is such a profound statement that truly understanding it can take days, weeks, months or even years.

What aspect of your life do you or did you have control over?

You had no choice in who your parents are, you had no choice in your race, in your nationality, your culture, in where you were born and you had no choice in any aspect of the beginning of your life.

What makes you truly happy, what is the smell, the feeling, the sight, the sound or the taste that gives you happiness? Let us remove all of the truly material things in our lives and evaluate the basic senses that we were born with, smell, touch, sight, sound and taste. What smell gives you that truly happy feeling, is it the smell of a clean fresh breeze in the morning as the sun is rising or fresh baked bread or the smell of rain? What sound makes us feel truly happy, is it the sound of rain drops or a babbling brook or birds singing? What taste gives you a

GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 Office: 407-427-1800 Fax: 407-386-7925 Toll Free: 877-220-8315 407-427-1800 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com For Media Information email: capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com Publisher: sroberts@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Sales: sales@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Info: .Info@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Should you desire to review past copies of the publication go to http://www.issuu.com/caribbeanamericanpassport and search for Caribbean American Passport News Magazine.

Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Editor & Publisher ............................................................... Sam Roberts Graphic Design & Layout ..................................... Jan Longwell-Smiley Contributing Writers: ................................................... Rosemarie Roth ..................................................................................... Natasha Gittens ........................................................................................ .Karlyn Hylton ............................................................................................ Gail Seeram ........................................................................................ Kamal Abdool . .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell ................................................................................ Nouchelle Hastings Contributing Photographers ............ ....................................Ted Hollins ........................................... ............................................Willie David III ................................................ ............................................Sam Roberts ..................................................................................... Ronald Williams ............................................................................................. Gail Zucker .................................................................................................... Ray Ali Distribution & Sales.................................................... ...Delroy Edwards Distribution ............................................................................. Roy Benn South Florida Distribution ............................................. Delroy Edwards Copyright (C) 2014 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

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ImmigrationINFO

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Immigration News for Our Community Winning in U.S. Immigration Court

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

@GailSeeram FREE In-Office Consultation FREE Live Chat www.MyOrlandoImmigrationLawyer.com Most immigrants living in the United States, whether legal or illegal, fear being placed in deportation/removal proceeding.

When family members call my office because their loved ones are being detained by immigration, they think deportation will occur within 24 hours. This is not true. The deportation/removal process can take months if not years. When immigration officials detain you, they try to have you waive your judicial hearing and opt for expedited deportation/removal by signing a piece of paper. I always advise clients not to waive their right to a judicial hearing and not to sign the consent form opting for expedited deportation/removal.

If you are detained by immigration officials or are issued a notice of hearing to appear in immigration court, then you will have mandatory court appearances in immigration court.

If you have received a notice of hearing, you must appear in immigration court. If you fail to appear in immigration court, then the immigration judge will issue an “in-abstentia order” for your deportation/removal – meaning in your absence the immigration judge will automatically issue a final order for your deportation/removal. This means you will not get another opportunity to see an immigration judge and you will be deported/removed by immigration officials. When final orders of deportation/removal are issued because of failure to appear in immigration court, then immigration officials will come to your home or work to apprehend you and start the deportation/removal process.

It is to your benefit to appear in immigration court before the immigration judge. Our office has represented thousands of immigrants in immigration court and has been successful in getting them to remain in the United States. There are many options under the immigration laws where a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) or an undocumented immigrant can apply to stay in the United States even if in deportation/removal proceedings in immigration court.

The key to winning your immigration court case is to retain an immigration lawyer with immigration court experience and knowledge of the immigration laws. The first immigration court hearing you are required to attend is called the “master hearing”. At the master hearing, you will confirm to the immigration judge your name, address and that you received the notice of hearing and the notice to appear.

Thereafter, your immigration lawyer will then address the immigration judge and admit or deny the factual allegations in your removal case and either admit or deny that you are removable/deportable under the listed immigration law. Next, the immigration judge will ask what relief or waiver you will be seeking. Once a waiver or relief from removal/deportation is identified, then the immigration judge will set an individual hearing, which is like a minitrial. At the individual hearing, the immigration lawyer will present an oral testimony from the immigrant and other qualifying relatives and also present a written testimony for

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the immigration judge and government attorney to consider in making their decision.

Based on the experience of your immigration lawyer, he/ she should be able to recognize whether you qualify for any of the following waivers or reliefs under the immigration law: cancellation of removal, 212(c) waiver, 212(h) waiver, 212(i) waiver, adjustment of status, 245(i), prosecutorial discretion-deferred action, asylum, withholding of removal, convention against torture, voluntary departure, or administrative closure.

If the immigration judge decides you and your immigration lawyer have met the legal burden in your immigration case, then he/she will grant you lawful permanent resident status or allow you to retain your current lawful permanent resident status. If the immigration judge decides you don’t qualify for the relief or waiver, then the immigration judge will issue a final order of removal/deportation. In this case, you will have 30 days to file an appeal of the immigration judge’s decision. In ALL cases, I advise to file an appeal to the immigration judge decision.

So, as you can see the immigration court process once you are in deportation/removal proceedings is not simple and certainly not quick. The second hearing, individual hearing, can take one year to be scheduled. However, if you are being detained in a detention center, then the immigration court speeds up the immigration court process but it can still take three months from your first appearance, master hearing, to your last appearance, individual hearing.

The only way you can win in immigration court is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer such as immigration lawyer Gail Seeram. She has an excellent reputation with the immigration judges and has been practicing in immigration court for over fifteen (15) years. Many clients will affirm and agree that immigration lawyer Gail Seeram has a genuine passion for helping immigrants and winning their immigration court cases.

Question #1: I was deported from the U.S. after seeing an immigration judge.

Is their any chance for me to return to the U.S.?

Answer #1: First, you need to see how long you are banned from returning to the U.S. Second, if there is a change in the laws, an immigration lawyer may be able to file a motion to reopen your immigration court case and reverse the final order of deportation. Lastly, if you have a U.S. spouse, child over age 21, parent or sibling, they can file a family-based immigration petition for you and you would need to file a waiver seeking reentry once the immigrant visa is available.

Question #2: Do I have a right to a free immigration lawyer to represent me in immigration court?

Answer #2: No, unlike criminal court, you do not have a right to a free immigration lawyer. The immigration court will provide a list to you of free immigration providers but most of those listed charge a fee for legal services.

For more information, contact Gail Law Firm: Phone: 1-877-GAIL-LAW or 407-292-7730 www.MyOrlandoImmigrationLawyer.com FREE in-office consultation – FREE Live Chat www.GailLaw.com Copyright © Law Offices of Gail S. Seeram, 2015. All Rights Reserved.

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The 2015 Eagle Awards Recap n Saturday January 17, 2015 The African American Cham- community. The chamber’s objective is to advance the well-beber of Commerce of Central Florida hosted its 10th An- ing and prosperity of its members, and to continuously increase nual Eagle Awards at Disney’s Contemporary Resort lo- African Americans access to business opportunities. cated on the property of our Title Sponsor, Walt Disney World Resort. Along with the support of our Platinum Sponsors; AT&T and Orlando Health, the evening was a huge success.

The 2015 Eagle Awards consisted of a silent auction, red carpet arrival, VIP reception, dinner, and an awards presentation.

The evening was capped off by a concert performance featuring Ms.

2015 Eagle Award KRS Wealth Management

2015 Corporation of the Year - Orlando Health

2015 Entrepreneur of the Year Red Bug Landscaping & Irrigation, Inc

2015 Emerging Business of the Year - Lancaster & Associates Insurance, Inc.

This is made possible through focusing on our Four Pillars; Access to Capital, Advocacy, Contracting, and Entrepreneur Training, which serve as the cornerstone of our platform. None of these efforts could be accomplished without the continuous support of our members, corporate partners, volunteers and the dedication and hard work of our staff and board members.

The 2015 Eagle Awards’ winners are as follows:

Sisaundra Lewis from The Voice. “This was an extraordinary night of style, glamour and excellence, and we are prepared to • 2015 Corporation of the Year: Orlando Health accomplish big things for the betterment of our Central Florida • 2015 Emerging Business of the Year: Lancaster & Associates community in 2015,” stated John F. Davis, President.

Insurance, Inc. • 2015 Entrepreneur of the Year: Red Bud Landscaping & Irrigation, Inc. The black tie event brought together more than 400 attendees for an exciting evening celebrating business excellence in our • 2015 Eagle Award: KRS Wealth Management.

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By Tony Deyal

Looking for Meaning

“

ne of the symptoms of an approaching nervous breakdown is the belief that one’s work is terribly important.” This was both an opinion and extremely good advice from the British mathematician and philosopher, Bertrand Russell.

I remembered it at about 04:00 a.m. on Thursday February 5, when I got out of bed driven by guilt that I had missed my self-imposed deadline for writing and e-mailing my columns to the newspapers that use them (and me in the process). It hit me then that my being a workaholic may be the result, not of my father’s example, but my totally mistaken belief that my work is terribly important and that without my excessive punctuality and my obsessive work habits, the world would somehow crumble.

attention, nothing beats a good mistake.” I know. What I also know is that it is good strategy to allow some people, especially those you consider your opponents, to make mistakes. I cannot do it – I try to save people from themselves when I can but the world’s great leaders let you hang yourself and will even offer you the rope. Napoleon said it, “Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake.”

I suppose I am going through this morning what some people call a dog night of the soul – allowing my depression to get to me and eat into my confidence and drive. My mind throws up questions of success and failure, dead hopes and lost opportunities, might-have-beens and should-not-haves. I take com-

“One of the symptoms of an approaching nervous breakdown is the belief that one’s work is terribly important.”

fort in my moderate successes and think of what Earl Wilson the columnist said, “Success is a matter of luck. Ask any failSo, I resorted to my own last resort. Humour. I am a book ure.” Or Joseph Heller, the Catch 22 author, “Success and failperson and before learning to do anything – drive, play cricket, ure are both difficult to endure. Along with success come drugs, even get married – I read as many books on the subject as I divorce, fornication, bullying, travel, meditation, medication, could find. I started reading about nervous breakdowns but depression, neurosis and suicide. With failure comes failure.” found no evidence that I was there or thereabouts but I did I suppose my work ethic is both my downfall and my saving recognize symptoms of overwork and the need to lighten up. grace but as one comic quipped, “You never become a howling success by just howling.” You have to put in the hard yards.

So what did I do? Read about “funny business”.

I remember telling a former Director of Petrotrin who congratulated me on the work that I was doing that she should wait before being too complimentary. As I said, “When I make a mistake it is huge and it is also inevitable.” The fact is that I prefer to make mistakes from taking decisions than to screw up by avoiding or deferring them. People like me will screw up and screw up big and when they do all the good work in the past is forgotten or ignored. There is a saying, “For maximum

What I like are people who indulge in self-deprecating humour, people who can laugh at themselves and never take life too seriously. Put another way, do not underestimate your abilities. That is your boss’s job – and your wife’s. Or, as Les Claypool, the American musician and writer joked, “In the early days all I hoped was to make a living out of what I did best. But, since there’s no real market for masturbation I had to fall back on my bass playing abilities.” The tragedy of my life is that I can’t even play bass.

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Letters to My Lawyer™ WORKING WITH SUSPENDED DRIVER’S LICENSE out from the DHSMV if this is possible. Most times you must have been free from any traffic infractions for at least one year before you are eligible. If you already have a five (5) year habitual traffic offender suspension, an

By Karlyn Hylton, Esq. attorney may be able to help you modify one of your cases to get the suspension removed. If your license is suspended for a child support matter, an attorney may be able to file a motion to get your license reinstated. You may also have the ability to set up a payment plan for some of Dear Lawyer: your tickets, so that they do not show as suspensions on I have a suspended license but have to drive for work every your driving record. You definitely may have options. day. If I do not go to work I will never be able to pay off my Contact an attorney to find out if your specific situation tickets and reinstate my license. Is there anything you can do allows you to fit in to one of the categories above. to help?

Sincerely, Driver’s Licenseless Dear Driver’s Licenseless:

At Hylton Adamson Watson, we provide clients with representation on traffic and other criminal matters.

We also practice family law, immigration, foreclosure, bankruptcy and business law. Contact us today for your free consultation.

Regards, A suspended driver’s license is an issue that can spiral Karlyn Hylton, Esq. out of control. You can be arrested for a misdemeanor, HAWM, PLLC placed in jail and/or placed on probation and face even Please submit your letters to letters@hawmlaw.com. Each month a reader’s selection will higher fines if caught driving. You should also know be chosen for response. that if you get convicted of 3 driving with suspended This column is primarily for educational purposes as well as to give the reader general information license charges within five (5) years, you can be deemed and a general understanding of the law, not to provide any legal advice whatsoever. By reading this a Habitual Traffic Offender and your license can be column you understand that there is no attorney-cliet relationship between you and writer/publisher. This column should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed suspended for a five (5) year period. If you get arrested professional attorney. This column is not published for advertising or solicitation purposes. The for driving while you have that five year suspension, hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. you could be charged with a felony and face up to five Letters to My Lawyer™ is a publication of Karlyn Hylton & Sasha Watson of Hylton, Adamson Watson, PLLC (5) years in prison. Don’t let this happen to you.

You may be eligible for a hardship license and can find

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120 E. Colonial Drive |Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-802-3223 | F: 407-377-1971 Email: letters@hawmlaw.com

LET US PLAN YOUR CORPORATE EVENTS FOR YOU! We work with your budget to make your event special for you and memorable for your guests.

To reserve your space on our party planning calendar contact Noorie at 407-427-1800 for a free event consultation or capnews magazine @ yahoo. com. Let GGR Marketing & PR plan your Event!

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Daren Hawthorne Appointed Executive VP of Franchising & Corporate Counsel olden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Daren Hawthorne as Executive Vice President of its Franchising Division effective immediately. Daren previously held the position of Corporate Counsel and will continue to represent the company in that office also.

“During this time of transformation, there is no better person to lead our franchising department towards the next major milestone; achieving our 2020 vision.” said Daren Hawthorne Lowell Hawthorne, Golden Krust President & CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors. “Daren is a proven leader with a keen eye for business, a visionary in his own right who possesses the ability to drive transformational changes. His vision for the future is optimally aligned with the mission and vision of the organization.”

Daren Hawthorne, son of Lowell Hawthorne, is a graduate of American University and Southern University of Law. It has always been his dream to be able to serve the company that his family worked so hard to build. During his tenure with the company, he has spearheaded several new initiatives aimed at reshaping the organization. “As I take on this new journey with the company, I ask that you trust me, that you challenge me, that you continue to work hard and that you remain competitive in the market.” Daren said when his promotion was announced in an Executive meeting.

“The opportunity ahead for Golden Krust franchising is vast, but to seize it, we must focus clearly, move faster and continue to transform. A big part of my job is to accelerate our ability to bring innovative products to our

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customers more quickly.” President and CEO, Lowell Hawthorne.

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill, Inc., www.goldenkrustbakery .com, is a Caribbean food chain. Founded in 1989 by Lowell Hawthor ne and his family, Golden Krust headquarters is located in Bronx, NY and has 120 stores nationwide. For twenty five years, Golden Krust has brought food lovers a taste of the Caribbean through franchising and a thriving retail business through which Jamaican style patties are distributed to supermarkets and club stores nationwide as well as through several food service organizations.

The Culturally Rich 22nd staging of the 9 Mile Festival in Miami did not disappoint . . .

By Sandra Fatmi

tion for the evening, the honorable Robert Nesta Marley. Iqulah Rastafari continued the cultural vibes.

The 22nd Annual 9 Mile Festival held on Saturday, February 14th 2015, at the Miami Dade County Fairgrounds to a sold out crowd, was filled with love, legacy, culture, inspiration and genuine family unity. This festival which was pioneered by Bob Marley’s mother Cedella Marley Booker in 1993, continues to preserve the legacy of her son and her vision.

The vibes started in the afternoon with MC Lance O, who set the tone for the evening as the program opened with the local one love reggae music group Future Prezidents, The

If you know Capelton, also known as King Shango and the Prophet his performance entertained the crowd with his conscious lyrics and high energy. Just about everyone was jumping to heights I’m sure they didn’t know they could reach. The American Grammy Nominated reggae band SOJA out of Arlington, Virginia performed nonstop to high quality reggae music that left the crowd screaming for more. I have to give them a 10 for getting the attendees ready to spend the rest of the night, with the Marley’s. MC Papa Keith took over from Lance O, and

only woman on the lineup Tanya Stephens did not disappoint, and entertained the crowd with her usual vivid display of her wide-ranging musical imagination and keen wordplay. As you looked at the crowd her love song celebrating the day for lovers, left couples from near and far cuddling as they got ready for the next act. The band the Green out of Hawaii had the crowd on their feet enjoying reggae music redefined with refreshing vibes reminding those in attendance of the inspira-

introduced DJ Jazzy T straight out of Jamaica, who took the audience back to the memorable 80’s and 90’s dancehall days.

By the time he was done you felt like Buju was freed.

If Bob Marley was still with us, he would be so proud of his grandson Jo Mersa, Marley (son of Stephen Marley) who is a splitting image of his grandfather, and not to mention, sounds

Continued on page 20

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Pipeline Scandal with Koch Brothers, Governor Scott and Bush was never challenged by residents.

By Roger Caldwell

The project was started in 2005. In 2012, the citizens and environmental groups learned that the Koch brothers and Georgia-Pacific had completed construction of the pipeline.

The groups have also discovered that the pipeline has a “chronic toxicity mixing zone and several other mixing zones,” that are beyond the boundaries of the preliminary approved easements.

The citizens and environmental groups have filed a direct petition in the Florida Supreme Court requiring Trustees to comply here is nothing new in Florida politics because cor- with the public trust doctrine and the due process doctrine. ruption is the engine that drives major deals in the The current chairperson of Florida’s Trustees is Governor Scott, state. With the leader of the Republican Party in jail, and they have refused to initiate an investigation into the illeit is obvious that everyone he worked with probably gal, approved pipeline. There are now tons of toxic wastes bebroke the law. The Republicans control both Houses in ing dumped into the river, and the FDEP has also refused to the state, and no one challenges their authority because investigate the pipeline. they appoint the leaders in the state.

There is something broken in Florida’s state legislature when In the Daily Kos last week, Leslie Salzillo wrote an article which our governor puts Georgia-Pacific’s bottom line above the citiexposed a pipeline scandal with a huge paper company named zens’ and state’s environment. The environmental groups are Georgia-Pacific, and owned by the Koch brothers. In 2003, trying to challenge and fight this pipeline in the courts, but under Governor Jeb Bush and his Cabinet, they engineered a the judges and the media remain quiet. deal where Georgia-Pacific would receive a private easement to discharge toxic waste into the St. John’s River.

When state politicians have their closed back-door meetings with the Koch brothers, there is a corrupt and illegal manner In order to make this happen, Georgia-Pacific would need to in which the deal is created. At this point, money is on the line construct a wetland pipeline, which would need numerous and no one cares about the destruction of the environment permits from the state and federal government. Also, the Florida and the beauty of the state. The Koch brothers’ only concern is Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), the Florida their bottom line, and our governor’s job is to make sure that Trustees, and the Florida Citizens of that particular county the public is not informed. would have to approve of the pipeline.

It is time to put pressure on our governor, the FDEP, TrustTo begin with, Floridians would never want a company to ees, the courts, and the state legislature to stop tons of toxic dump tons of toxic waste into a river where they swim waste from being dumped in our water and rivers. Floridand fish. So, in 2005, the Koch brothers and Governor Bush ians cannot let the Koch brothers and our governor destroy quietly and mysteriously received the approval of all the beautiful environment and waterways which make our needed permits and published a notice in the paper, which state a miracle.

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Bantu-Masai Gallery of African Artifacts “A Piece of Africa in Orlando”

isten . . . to the beat of the drum. Step into the doorway and Sister Elazer developed a sense of her personal identity while be taken back to your ancestral land, the Motherland, Af- living a young life in North Carolina. Growing up at the rica. “A piece of Africa in Orlando.” Welcome home! end of a segregated era was enough to provoke many thoughts about one’s life and heritage.

Let the music of the drums bring you to our When a person of another race could freely palace, Bantu-Masai Gallery of African Arsay, “Why don’t you people go back to Aftifacts. Here the spirits of African ancestors rica,” she began to look into the Motherland a bit closer. This began a quest for are alive and their presence is being felt, by more and more knowledge regarding her all who enter. Take a journey through the cultural heritage. It also brought about a collection of artifacts from various countries conscious awareness that she would travel on the continent of Africa, mainly from sub-

Saharan Africa. There are masks, statues and everyday objects such as fabrics, furniture, books, jewelry, musical instruments and much more.

Bantu-Masai & sister Elazer

Objects here were designed by African artisans. The works must have been discussed, between the sculptor and the village priest, before being created. After their creation, these artifacts were used during celebrations, initiations and ceremonies.

to the home of her ancestors.

Born on the island of Barbados, in a small fishing village named Pile Bay, Spring Garden, Brother Bantu had the advantage of learning, as a young boy, from his grandfather and from the village elders. From them he obtained an awareness of his rich African roots and a level of consciousness that he could never learn in school or from school books.

After leaving Barbados, Brother Bantu continued to educate himself to a higher level of consciousness. As he says, “there are two schools: their schools and our schools-which are our ancestors’ teachings. It is his story and our history.”

Collecting African art is about preserving a dynamic and rich cultural heritage. This personal collection began decades ago because of a higher consciousness that was innate in two individuals, Sister Elazer and Brother Bantu, who reside at this The Sankofa bird is an Adinkra symbol from Ghana, Africa. It Orlando residence. Come experience the Bantu-Masai Gal- has a powerful meaning which is, “reach into the past and relery of African Artifacts and leave with a clearer understand- turn with values and assets that can be used to build the fu ing and knowledge of one’s African heritage.

— Continued on page 26 —

NEWS MAGAZINE

FebRUARY 28, 2015 • 5:00 pm tO 8:00 pm For More Information Call 1-877-220-8315

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Legends of West Indies Cricket, ganizers Lawrence “Yagga” Rowe, and Pooran Ramnanan.

Lawrence Rowe, the founder of the Lawrence Rowe Cricket Foundation and Pooran Ramnanan of A-Class Events. Inc., made all the personal and professional commitments and sacrifices

Continued from pg 1

to the 25 West Indies cricket Legends who took the time out to appear and support the foundation, all the sponsors for their spirited support of keeping cricket alive in South Florida, and Commissioner Dale Holness for honoring Sir Garfield Sobers with a proclamation day from Broward County.

Cricket lovers and cricket enthusiasts— it is important to note that the success of this event cannot be overlooked and it is on the onus of all cricket lovers to truly make an effort to support the integrity of the game and to recog nize these West Indies legendary he-

Sir Garfield Sobers being honored by Broward County Commissioner Holness to make the event a possibility. However, as they both expressed during the banquet dinner with the legends, this event would not have been possible without the support of their families, the community and the organizing team behind the scenes led

by Dexter Donaldson.

West Indies Greatest Batsment - Brian Lara and Sir Garfield Sobers

roes, all of whom dominated the sport for almost two decades. As we sat in our seats duri n g t h e dinner The excitement and watching video clips, passion for the game pictures and summaof cricket and esperies about the recially for the West markable careers of Indies could be felt these legends; there by anyone in attenwas a sense of pride dance. That sentiand gratitude for the ment was expressed history made by best by Lawrence these legends of West Rowe “Having Sir Lawrence Rowe & Dexter Donaldson Indies cricket. I reGarfield Sobers, Sir member the songs Wes Hall and Sir Anderson Roberts grace sang and the stories South Florida with their presence at the told about just how same time was very special”. For any amazing these legWest Indies cricket fan, just being in the ends were during same room with such legends would their heyday but have been enough to satisfy any appeCaribbean Airlines Kaye Chong & West watching them that tite, but to also have the opportunity to Indies Cricketer night in South Flortalk, shake hands and have photo opSarwan Singh ida and having the portunities with these stars was unforgetopportunity to meet them and interact table. For those who still wanted more— with them made you realize just how great superstar batsman Mr. Brian Lara captiand humble these West Indies cricket givated the fans during the exhibition ants truly are. I hope this was not a once game with an awesome display of batPooran Ramnanan in a life time opportunity, I hope the orgating by scoring 108 runs; a feat that was deemed as ”very memorable,” said Pooran Ramnanan, A-Class nizers continue to take this opportunity on the road and allow other to experience this as well.

Events, Inc. The weekend organizers and the visionaries behind the 25 Leg- “Who knows, this may continue to be one of South Florida’s ends of West Indies Cricket, Lawrence Rowe and Pooran major events on an annual basis,” said event organizers Ramnanan, took every opportunity to express special thanks Lawrence and Pooran.

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Welcome to the 2015 Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida Executive Board Left to Right: Karen Fortune - Secretary, Donna Morton - Vice-President, Guenet Gittens-Roberts - President & Anita Singh - Treasurer

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Leo Mendez

eo Mendez has been an avid community supporter, a health enthusiast, a businessman and also the founder of Nirvana Health Systems; and if that’s not enough he’s also the founder of the Pipiol Angels Foundation.

For more than 45 years Leo has been a devoted husband to his wife, Lynn, and a loving father to their two children.

founded Nirvana Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Services, to provide outpatient therapy services. Located in Oviedo, this state of the art facility has been designed not only for rehabilitation services but to provide sports medicine services to area athletes.

If you think this was enough to keep anyone busy, think again, Leo has a passion for helping our youth build their future. In Leo was born in 1945 and raised on the twin island nation of 2012, Leo established the Pipiol Angels Foundation, a 501 (C) Trinidad & Tobago. As a young adult he immigrated to the (3) certified non-profit organization based in Orlando, Florida.

United States where he Leo saw yet another need and set forth studied business at to find a solution for our youth here in Roosevelt University in Orlando and in the Caribbean. The purChicago, Illinois, pose of the Foundation is to help provide where Leo received his activities where our youth can have an business degree. After outlet so that they can nurture creativity graduation, he wasted and achieve dreams, further their eduno time putting his cation and leadership development. skills to work in the Pipiol Angels also helps provide support world of banking and to other affiliate groups with similar goals computer project manand objectives. agement. For over seventeen years he worked A great man is taking small steps toin various roles within wards a bigger picture in the walk of the banking industry life. With people like Leo reaching out in Chicago and Orto help others find their dreams, we can lando. During this time all be assured that part of this world, he took a brief hiatus from Orlando all the way to the Caribfrom banking when he bean has been improved. One man is returned to Trinidad as making it a better place to live. Leo has a computer project administrator, managing projects in the dedicated his life to assisting and empowering others to make Caribbean and teaching business courses there. their dreams come true. Along the way he has found the true meaning of success and happiness.

Leo returned to Florida in 1987 and continued his banking career which later lead him to manage conLeo’s life can be tracts with two CPA firms; he also assisted summed up in the with audits at Orange County, the City of words from the Orlando and other Florida businesses.

Pipiol Angels mission statement; Leo has worn many hats over the course of “The mission of the his career including being a former Rotarian Pipiol Angels is to and member of the board of directors of Neal mentor, to inspire, & Massy (Trinidad) Credit Union. He chaired to develop hope the board of Orange County Research and and to create opDevelopment Authority, on which he still portunities for the serves. Leo is past President of Caribbean young people to American Chamber of Commerce of Florida. achieve excellence In addition, he is Grand Counselor Emeritus and to become proof the Rosicrucian Order with prior responsiductive citizens.” bility for the Southeast and Florida Region Let us help foster a and he has held various positions within the young mind. Help Orlando chapter of this organization. pay it forward and grow a new generaIn 1994, recognizing the need in his comtion of youths to munity Leo established Nirvana Health Serlead and follow vices, Inc., a Medicare Certified home health their dreams. agency providing skilled nursing and therapy services to individuals in their To learn more homes. Over the past twenty years this orabout Nirvana ganization has grown to become a multiHealth Ser vices, million dollar corporation servicing six counties in the Cen- Nirvana Sports Medicine Rehabilitation and the Pipiol Angels tral Florida area.

Foundation please visit their respective websites www.nirvanahealthservices.com, www.nirvana health In 2014, again recognizing a growing need in his community Leo systems.com and www.pipiolangels.com

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Fit Like A Ras

By Jeremy Roberts - NASM

After the Resolution o we mek de resolutions/set goals/whatever yuh wan’ call it. Some kind a fitness or health goal is usually pon de list. Now yuh have fih plan de path forward. If yuh did follow de Dread advice from las’ time, yuh woulda done gone and hire a Personal Trainer, and yuh could jus’ stop readin’ now, coz yuh woulda be gettin’ all dis advice and more. However, ah know at leas’ 75% didn’t do dat, so fuh de cheapskates, read on!

Since we general goal is fih LGN (Look Good Naked), we droppin’ fat and buildin’ or keepin’ muscle. Diet and exercise is de two main tings people does try fih change. Leh we start wid diet.

So if yuh eat at 7 PM the night bfore, don’t eat again till 7 AM or later. That’s at least a 12 hour fast. Shortening the “feeding window” is a positive.

As fuh yuh exercise, I, as mentioned many, many times before, got a preference fuh weight training, or resistance training if yuh prefer de fancy term. So leh we assume yuh tek mih advice and start wid de weights. “How often to work out” is often de next question. De correck answer is: as often as you can. Every day would be ideal. Of course, “work out” don’t mean do de same ting every day. In fact, yuh should never do the same thing every day, or even on consecutive days. Muscles need at least a day to recuperate.

In nuff cases, yuh did mean fuh stick to a “diet” las’ year, or at some other time, and yuh fail. So now yuh gots to check why dat Most people can only go to the gym or run outside 2 – 3 days a happen. To me, once yuh seh yuh going pon a diet, yuh done week. Dese days should be the ones yuh go hard. De others fail. De diet can’t be temporary, or any change yuh mek will be yuh should work on recovering, which don’ mean sit pon de also temporary. Yuh have fih view dis as changing yuh life, coz fih real, it is probably dat serious.

Since we general goal is fih LGN (Look Good Naked), we droppin’ fat and buildin’ or keepin’ muscle. Diet and exercise is de two main tings people does try fih change.

As de saying goes, nuff roads lead to Addis. Find a ting dat sound like it mek sense to you, and is something you could do FUH DE RES A YUH LIFE, and do it. If I was advisin’ people who tryin’ to lose fat, I would advise a Paleo or Primal type diet: mostly whole foods, not manufactured anything. Reduce couch an eat chips. De bes’ ting is to do some light wuk using carbs to as close to zero as you can get, jack up de protein de same muscle groups dat yuh worked de day before. significantly, and don’t pay no attention to fat, or even up As a example, if yuh were runnin’ pon Monday, do a long dat as well. stroll pon Tuesday. If yuh lif’ weights and the muscle group Plan yuh day. When I leavin’ de house every day, I either have was de upper body push muscles (the muscles yuh use to push wid me every ting I gon be eatin throughout the day, or at tings), then do some light push motions. De light movements least I know what I will be getting’ to fill in de gap in my food does help increase blood flow to de area but don’t stress de supply fuh dat day. When I tryin’ fih lose weight, I always got muscles too much, which helps bring de necessary nutrients to water around, or at a minimum, some zero calorie drink. Some- de area. times, when yuh hungry, if yuh jus’ drink a little water or some other non sugary filled drink, and step outta sight and smell of A lotta people does stray from dese practices one or two times as de year progress. Dat don’t mean yuh fail. Check any sucde food, yuh suddenly realize yuh ain’ hungry no more. cessful person and yuh find dat even though they get knock While is good to always eat fresh, non manufactured food, it’s down or fall down, dey jus’ get back up and keep at it again not always convenient. I always have some kind of high pro- and again. Mek it a priority, tek it serious, and wuk de plan. tein, low carb snack around. Pon a average day, I eat 2 -3 of Results can never be guaranteed, but certain actions and attithose, in between de main meals. I have been trying to prac- tudes can mek it easy fuh me to see somebody who gon fail fih tice Intermittent Fasting as well, stretching the fasting time out sure. Be de successful one dis year. to 14 hours some days. For those of you who need a refresher, basically yuh use de night time as a fast, and try to go as long GT Dread is an NASM-CPT, who competes in Masters Track, Field Hockey as you can without eating in the morning when yuh wake up. and Weightlifting. He can be contacted at fitlikearas@gmail.com

Ziggy Marley takes home his seventh Grammy at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards Continued from pg 1

in 1981 after their father’s death. Their 1988 album, Conscious Party, won a Grammy for “Best Reggae Recording” and helped the group break through to mainstream audiences. They received the same Grammy Award the next year in 1989, and “Best Reggae Album” in 1997. After a few more successful albums with the band, Marley began a solo career in 2006. As a solo artist he won “best Reggae Album” in 2006 for his album “Love is my Religion”, “Best Musical Album for Children” in 2009 with “Family Time”, “Best Reggae Album” in 2013 with “Ziggy Marley in Concert”, and at the 2015 Grammys, he brought home “Best Reggae Album” once more with “Fly Rasta”.

As one of the most popular and celebrated reggae singers of this generation, Ziggy’s songs, like his father’s, generally convey messages on socio-political issues, peace, and community. He began singing at a very young age, recording songs while Bob Marley was still alive. Today, in addition to working on his music, Ziggy Marley devotes much of himself to philanthropy and giving back to the community. We should all be looking forward to what the Marley family as a whole will be bringing to this world in the future.

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By Kamal Abdool Taking a call, the moment I’ve been waiting for arrived. Lady asked to speak to a supervisor. I’m so sorry ma’am, no supervisor is available at this time but I do have a Senior Supervisor nearby.

Would you like to speak to the Senior Supervisor?

Yes!, Yes! Some people are so gullible.

’ve lived in the United States for twenty five years and never once asked to speak to a supervisor when calling customer service for companies/agencies with whom I do business.

So what’s the secret? Be nice to the person who answers the phone. They’re best equipped to handle your concerns.

If needed, they’ll ask for help to assist you.

My days selling in a call center environment came to an end on February 15th as enrollment for the 2015 Affordable Healthcare closed. Back to the field until I retire at 67. However, I’ll keep licenses in ten of the fifty States that I’m currently licensed.

I’ll miss talking to people across America and the pleasure of helping some truly wonderful people.

I’ve had customers cr y on the phone as they expressed their gratitude for the kindness and attention showered upon them.

Many women asked for my phone number including a sixty five year old who invited me to visit Michigan with the enticing words that she still looks good in a bikini.

Whenever I called, standard procedure. Thank you for taking my call, I need your help/guidance. Would you help me? Works like a charm.

Never paid a credit card late fee in my life.

I wish everyone enjoyed the experience of working in a fast food outlet and a call center. Great life skills training and chances are at the end of your tenure you won’t be rude or inconsiderate to others.

Why are Americans so quick to ask to speak to a supervisor?

For many, it’s an opportunity to stroke their own ego. A couple years ago I was part of a team assisting Medicare recipients.

Aware of Americans’ desire to speak to a supervisor, we had designated four agents as supervisors.

When the inevitable request came, the caller heard the agent request a supervisor and unknowing to them, another fellow agent picked up the call. Amazing that people never picked up on our little scam.

I’m grateful to Trinidad and Tobago for my education, my confidence, and my sense of humor. People across these great United States love my Trini accent. And I’ll remember the lady I remember one particular agent, great guy but not the sharp- caller who, upon hearing my name is Kamal, asked to talk to est knife in the drawer. He asked why he was not designated a someone who speaks English. supervisor. Informed him that he was a Senior Supervisor. One thing Americans love more than asking for a supervisor is Quick as a lightening strike I responded, “Why Ma’am, Would You Like To Learn English?” speaking to a Senior Supervisor.

9 Mile Festival in Miami, Continued from page 11 just like him. Jo’s versatility of dance hall and roots and culture, was extremely appreciated by the younger generation who was on their feet, the entire time he was on stage. Jo Mersa spoke consciously, and shared the stage with up and coming artist Jesse Royal who did his thing. The wait was over, and it was time for the fireworks, loud screams and grand entrance of Julian, Damian and Stephen Marley. The large screen on stage, showed the honorable Roberta Nesta Marley in the background as Stephen opened as the lead singer with “Is this love” with his brothers singing along. The brothers did not disappoint and took turns going between their own individual songs, such as Affairs of the Heart, Welcome to Jam Rock and songs from their dad’s legacy. Words known by the crowd, more than the brother’s themselves. There would be two more high lights before the evening was over. The surprise entrance of the one and only Spragga Benz who graced the stage with the Marley’s and did a memorable number – “Spragga style”, and the tear jerking moment when the young Marley ladies, joined the stage as backup singers, and when one of the youngest Marley’s barely tall enough to sit on a chair by himself had a mike in his hand, and took the time to let us know that he was the next Generation ready and waiting to carry on the Marley legacy. A defining moment indeed. One where you clearly realized that the Marley legacy will live on for a very long time. The three brothers ended the evening

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by hugging on stage, and thanking everyone for coming out.

What an amazing evening, as evidenced by the smile, body languages and interviews conducted with some of the attendees, who came from as far as Amsterdam, Germany, the UK and the Virgin Islands to name a few.

As the evening was coming to a close, a few in attendance echoed that the festival took them back to their youthful days in Jamaica attending out door cultural festivals where the food was good, the people were peaceful, friendly and loving. I felt proud to know that something that started 22 years ago to carry on such a rich legacy, to date has distributed over 3.5 million cans of food to shelters in Miami and Jamaica. Thanks to all in attendance for your continued contribution to such a great cause. This was my first time covering the event representing media sponsor Caribbean American Passport News Magazine out of Orlando. Visit www.caribbeanamerican passport.com for video excerpts of the event. I promise you, you will not be disappointed, and if you were not in attendance this year, you will not want to miss 2016. Stay connected and look for the next upcoming Caribbean events from “us” your passport to connecting to the Caribbean community.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Everett Spruill is one of Central Florida’s biggest influences on African American Art. His work has been exhibited and sold at Walt Disney World, Jazz Festivals and Disneys’ annual Food and Wine Festivals. For more than 25 years Everett, a self-taught artist, has been involved in collecting and creating. He currently Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Everett has lived in Central Florida since 1986. Everett advocates the necessity of arts education and recreation to enrich our lives. He also recognizes the benefits of the arts as a means to help youth become well-rounded and constructive individuals conducts art workshops for central Florida youth and is former owner of The Ethnic Art Gallery, Orlando, FL. Everett, a painter and photographer is very passionate about contributing to the betterment of society by documenting our existence with images that also beautify and enhance our lives. Children, Butterflys and beautiful women are just some of the visions that inspire Everett to capture the essence of our existence. The trademark of Everetts’ photos is exposing the connection and the beauty within all things. Everett is inspired to capture the essence of life through photos that embody spiritual symbols of love and our connection to creation. Everetts’ work is in private and corporate collections worldwide including, but not limited to, The University of Central Florida, Lucent Technologies, Central Florida YMCA, The National Association of Black Journalist, Orange County Public Schools, and Walt Disney World Resorts including Epcot Center and the Pleasure Island Jazz Club at Downtown Disney.

“ I picked up a camera because there are ques-

tions that needed to be asked. Questions relating to: personal sensitivities, familiarity, american society and questions to and from humanity. The photo acting as bread crumbs towards solutions.

Big crumbs, small crumbs, neither being more important than the other but collectively providing a comprehensive dialogue of what it means to be alive: What it means to be human. I’m still in search. I’ll forever be a student of life. “

- Mark A. Lark Legacy of a God gifted talent. I began painting and sculpting at the age of 5, my father Robert Noze, a Sculptor presented me with a box containing oil paint and brushes. From that day I have never stop painting and sculpting. My personal fascination is the human anatomy I especially concentrated in the subject in college because I believe it is important to capture human characteristics and the uniqueness of their personality. My role and challenge an artist is to pro create what God has already created.

With my brush stroke and the accuracy of my chisel, the end result a fine work of art.

Joyce Hayes

- Patrick Noze Mark Harris affectionately known as

Tr3 by his friends and patrons is an innovative young artist who resides in Orlando Florida.

He has cultivated his love for the raw talent of street artists in his collaboration with The BSide Artist (which he is also 1 of 7 founding members). A local organization founded to assist highly talented underground artist’s develop and market their work. Tr3 as a leading member of the organization sets the pace as they influence and vibrate the pulse of the “Street Art of Orlando.” He has overcome many of the challenges of an artist by creating masterpieces from found objects and recycled materials. He then markets them to local collectors and tourists in the area.

In 1977 Tr3 was born in Chicago, IL. Tr3’s family relocated to Chandler, AZ a middle class suburb outside of Phoenix. It was here at the ripe young age of five Tr3 began to express himself through art. Before his arrival in Florida he and his family moved to Denver, Colorado where he began his formal training at the Colorado Institute of Art. He developed his gift using paint markers, ink and acrylics. Upon his arrival to Central Florida, he continued his education at Full Sail Recording Arts in Winter Park, FL. After studying for eleven months, financial challenges forced him to leave Full Sail and take his work to the streets. At the age of thirty, he decided to pursue his dream and became a professional artist. For the past five years, he relentlessly beats the streets in an effort to expose, educate, influence and infect everyone he touches with his positive message which transcends through his vibrant selfless personality, and inspiring Urban Fine Art. Tr3 continues on his journey of self development and expression through his work.

also affectionately known as Joy, is a versatile artist having explored many different mediums and styles, but she is best known for producing pastel illustrations and portraits. In the medium of pastel renderings Joy is a self-taught artist. Having spent numerous years mastering the blending of pastel colors using her fingertips, she brings the canvas to life. Joys’ illustrations have been used in many publications in New York, and Georgia. Joy studied fashion and pictorial illustration at The Newark School of Fine & Industrial Arts. Her art has been exhibited in such Galleries as The African American Museum of Art, Harris House of New Smyrna, Metro Galleries in Orlando, The Deltona Arts and Historical Center and Cassellberry Art House, The Hub on Canal of New Smyrna Beach, Bethune Cookman Visual Arts Gallery, The Yvonne Scarlet Golden Cultural Center, Three Masks of Orlando, Debary City Hall, City Hall of Cassellberry Fl., and The Sanford Flower Shop. Joy now resides in Florida where she continues to share her creativity with the world. You may view her works on her website at www.joycehayes.artistwebsites.com or ail her at Eyeofjoy50@gmail.com.em

Timothy Babatunde Adebule, A.K.A Bushman #1, was born in London to Nigerian parents. At the age of one his parents brought him to Nigeria, where he remained until age 21. His passion for art started at an early age, abstract being his favorite. He is basically a self-taught artist. Orlando is where he first put his talents to use. He designed his own line of ethnic t-shirt and began selling them at work and at art shows. He loves to tell stories of home through his work. In 1996 he opened his own shop on Church Street. There he stocked the shelves with treasures from Africa, such as statues, masks, jewelry, clothing, instruments and more. His art expanded first came the Bushman necklace; His other mediums include pen on paper, oil on canvas, watercolor, pastels, acrylics and wood. He has displayed his art at numerous shows such as Zora Neale Hurston Festival, New Smyrna’s Festival of the arts,Orlando’s Fiesta in the park and Disney’s Black History Celebrations. In April of 2001 Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge was built and he was asked to feature his art at the Zawadi Gift Market.

He is dedicated to supporting other artist by personally marketing and selling their work at numerous events. He has served in the capacity of curator for art shows at the Ola Fest 2008 at Fashion Square Mall, City Arts Factory, Culture Mart, Milk Bar, and The Social Chameleon, Spooky’s Black Cat Café, F.O.I. and co-curator at independent art shows at The Vanness Johnson is a self taught artGallery at Metro, the Urban Think Bookstore and Steinway Piano Gallerist, born in Madison Florida. “Van J” was raised ies. Tr3 is currently curating for The Spa of Thornton Park, NV Art Bar, with a deep knowledge of self through the many Ver Ploeg & Lumpkin Law Firm and many more. He currently distributes important lessons taught by his Great Grandfather, art for a few members of The B-Side Artists also others from Central and coming from a close knit community of famFlorida. He has been featured in several Documentaries including, Get ily and friends. After the passing of a close friend Known by Evan Houston at FSU, The Pintura Project 2009 (a Graffiti and fellow artist,” Van J” reconnected to the spiriExpo), and Art in a Tourist Town by Patrick Scott Barnes. tual teaching shared by his Grandfather. His art work became more intense as Follow Tr3’s Art Journey at https://www.facebook.com/TrezMark Email :urbanslandmark77@yahoo.com

traces of his soul are expressed through every brush stroke and carvings that he create. Demonstrating that art can mend the mind, body and soul “For Lost Soulz” began the inspiration behind his work.

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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?”

Black History Dedication, Commissioner Mable Butler ife is only traveled once, today’s moments becomes tomorrow’s memories. Enjoy every moment, good or bad, because the gift of life is life itself. And on life’s journey we will discover that some things are easier said than done – hence my crossroad in writing about the power of Mable Butler. She’s a lot to talk about and so vast to write about – where do I begin? I first met her during a low time in my life. I was new to Orlando and frazzled in an unstable marriage with an abusive husband. I believe in my heart that God placed four giants around me who many saw as the ‘movers and shakers’ of that era; one being the late son of Mable Butler. He was as compassionate as he was handsome and he had respect for women because he was taught that by his mother, the Queen Mable Butler. He assured me that I could get advice from his mother, she would be rough but she would be truthful and help me find my way. The term OMG had not been thought of yet, but I guess that’s what I said OMG …. I just didn’t think powerful people had time to care. I saw her in action on the television and at a few meetings and when she put the hammer down baby you’ve been slammed.

was District 6 commissioner for eight years.

She has been a constant advocate for improving the quality of life and ensuring minorities and women got a fair share of government business.

Butler was formally educated at New York City College, and attended a specialized program for local government officials at Harvard University. She moved to Orlando in 1957 from Jacksonville. Orlando has never been the same and thankfully will never be the same because Mable is continuously wailing and fighting for improvements that will last for decades to come. Recently, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando broke ground on its second community in Central Florida – Butler’s Preserve. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer along with more than 100 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Located in the West Orlando community of Greater Washington Shores, the nearly $8 million development will feature 51 single-family homes and four duplex units – slated for completion in 2018 and handful of homes have been completed already.

Mable Butler Mable Butler’s passion has taught me that I A longtime champion for affordable housing, could not have been more wrong about powerful people. Pow- Butler’s work as District 6 Orange County Commissioner was erful people not only care but are positioned to help fight for the driving force behind buying the property nearly 20 years programs and the underserved. Fight for the underserved – let ago. “Bringing Mable’s dream to fruition is a major triumph that sink in while I take you for a ride on Mable Butler Avenue. for the Washington Shores area,” said Diane DiFebbo, board chair of Habitat of Greater Orlando. “Not only will we renew a Not many people step out of their house onto a street named once-abandoned piece of property, we will create an opportufor them. Mable Butler does; the city so honored her in 1994. nity for 59 families to become homeowners.” Butler’s Preserve Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Butler brought her unique is intended to be an example of “new urbanism” – a walkable brand of politicking to both the Orlando city council and the community with green amenities and ENERGY STAR-rated apOrange County commission. (Archives Orlando Weekly). It pliances in each home. Many of the energy-efficient features was around this same time that Mable shared that a gentle- will be sponsored by OUC. man told her when she was running for country commissioner that he asked the Mayor what kind of person she was – “The One of Mable’s long time friends who credits her will to fight mayor told him that she’d throw you under the bus and then through several bouts with cancer and terrible illnesses is Gloria take you to the hospital. All I’m saying is that you can’t tell Gee. Gloria can tell Mable stories like nobody else all the while me it’s raining and I see the sun shining. I’m very opinion- bringing you right into the scene as if you were there with them. ated, you’re right. I’m very truthful. I have strong convictions From crabs to cards to quilting and cooking Mable has been a about people, their principles; I put them all above politics. constant friend. “She is a woman before her time - She taught And if that’s wrong, then I’ve been wrong all of my life.” us at an early age that we are our brothers’ keepers and she taught the importance of playing an active role in our comMable Butler has touched the lives of many citizens in Orlando. munity.” says Ronaa Ali. “She’s been a role model of mine and one of the women who inspired me to run for office,” said, Senator Geraldine Thomp- Today, Butler continues to serve her community by volunson, (former) Florida House representative for District 39. teering at the L. Claudia Allen Senior Center. She also continues to cook meals for her friends in her home, where the Butler’s active social and political role in Central Florida for guest list ranges from local elected officials to family memmore than 40 years gained her Orlando Business Journal bers and neighbors. The only thing she doesn’t have is her Women Who Mean Business Legacy Award in 2010. Commis- own television show, so we’ll kindly borrow Anthony sioner Butler was the first African-American woman to hold Bourdain’s ‘No Reservations’….. Jump in where you fit in to an elected office in Orlando, where she was the District 6 City help others live a life of change and place people above poliCommissioner in 1984 and she was also the first African-Ameri- tics, that’s Butler’s policy and that’s Black History and the can to serve on the Orange County Commission, where she American Dream.

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GOOD FATS esearch shows that saturated fats increase cholesterol levels and the risk for heart disease. However, good fats are beneficial for helping to reduce heart disease and supports your overall health.

The research highlighted that when you cut down on saturated fats, it is important to replace it with the good fats such as monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats and omega -3. Good fats with omega -3’s are essential to your physical and emotional health.

Some fish that are high in monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fats includes Salmon, Trout, Tuna, Halibut and Mackerel.

Good fats also comes from plant base oils

such as Hemp seed oil, Olive oil, Flax seed oil and Grape seed oil.

You can spice up your salad with Grape seed oil or Hemp seed oil and enjoy some of the health benefits from plant base oils.

Jamaican-born Sandi Morais has a Bachelors degree from Florida International University.

Sandi is the author of Recipe for Life vegan/ vegetarian cook book. She is a Fitness Lifestyle Coach, and has been featured in several local and national magazines.

Recipe for Life vegan/vegetarian cook book can get you started on the road to a healthier lifestyle with quick and easy recipes. Only $19.95. www.sandimorais.net

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Top 5 Video Picks 1 Artist: Chronixx featuring Jacob Miller & Inner Circle Title: “Tenement Yard”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: Chronixx is one of those artists that continues to keep the fire burning with the new reggae revival movement by simply being a conscience artist. In Chronixx’s latest effort, he teamed up with the members of the Inner Circle band to remake one of reggae music’s classic, Tenement Yard sang by Jacob Miller.

This video shows how people are caught up in technology and devices and not appreciating your surroundings. Big up Chronixx!

2 Artist: Machel Montano Title: “Like a Boss”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: When one hears the name Machel Montano, two things come to mind: 1) soca music; and 2) energy. Since the start of 2015, Machel has been dropping records one after the other with no breaks. On his latest video “Like a Boss” Machel doesn’t hold back to let you know he is no fly-by night artist. With over 33 years in the music industry, Machel Montano is just getting started. For more information, check his official website out at www.machelmontano.com

3 Artist: Kelissa & Kesnamdi Title: “Live for Today”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: Brother and sister, Kelissa and Kesnamdi joined forces with Walshy Fire of Major Lazer and released the hit song “Live for Today”. While both of these artists had solo careers and worked with the whole reggae revival movement from artists such as Chronixx, protoje, Kabaka Pyramid and others; but it is the musical chemistry from the duo that can spark a new reggae movement. You can follow both of these two talented artists on twitter at @kelissamusic and @keznamdi.

4 Artist: Jesse Royal Title: “Clear my head”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: Jesse Royal aka small axe is not a newcomer to the music industry. Jesse recently teamed up with Major Lazer to drop the official mixtape entitled “Royally Speaking” and it is making international headlines. Jesse Royal is blessed with a voice that captures the pain and hunger of poor people. One thing is for certain is that Mr. Royal “does not make fast food music” and you can clearly see that in the video for the hit single “Clear my Head”. You can follow Jesse Royal on his official tumbler page found at http://www.jesseroyal.tumblr.com/

5 Artist: Mystic Title: “Coolie Bai Dance” Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: Mystic first came on the scene with a string of reggae ballads, but it was the hit song “Coolie bai dance” that put this Guyanese artist on the map. Recently signed with Brutal Track Records, Mystic has been selling out shows nationwide. Keep an ear out for Mystic, he has a bright future on the reggae scene.

Also, look out Central Florida, he will be here LIVE. For more information on Mystic keep it locked to Jungle Vibes, we will have the exclusive interview shortly.

For more information log on to Junglevibes.tv/Top5 or if you would like to submit your video for review, contact Rali at 407-625-2861 or via email at Junglevibestv@gmail.com

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Admission $40 Includes Dinner with a Cash Bar

February 21st 2015 • 7:00 pm to 2:00 am

For tickets please call Vanessa at 407-325-5466 or Andy at 407-694-7497 or Michelle at 321-946-7373 Proceeds go to help the Association to make a difference in the lives of our fellow citizens locally and internationally

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World Cup is upon us . . . . . . and rabid fans are chomping at the bit anticipating this quadrennial super bonanza. Preliminary matches are already underway. The Indians are the reigning champs but the seeding indicates they have a tough road ahead. Australia, on their home turf are the juggernauts. And they are playing like it, chalking up victory after victory. The South Africans are second with sublime Amla and explosive AB deVilliers complete the cast with super duo of Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel.

Austalia has won the most Wold Cups (four); scored the most runs (16,165); taken the most wickets (556). And a slew of other records.

West Indies stunned the cricketing world by dropping Pollard and Dwayne Bravo.

Clive Lloyd tried to justify this by using the phrase “new blood.”

World Cup is the most prestigious and hard fought cricketing tournament. Somehow this cannot square with “new blood.” Dwayne Bravo promptly quit Test cricket . Sunil Narine fed the flames by withdrawing from the tournament, citing needing more time to work on his suspect action. Soon after, he wrecked Guyana in the regional one day competition. His six for included the wicket of Chanderpaul.

Nikita miller replaces him. In the recent tournament vs South Africa, after blasting the fastest T20 fifty by a West Indian, Chris Gayle scored a relatively sedate 90 in 41 balls; winning for West Indies the first two T20s. Gayle failed in the third game and West Indies lost. In the five day tournament, South Africa won 4-1.As expected, Gayle did not shine. In the second match, Hashim Amla scored 153 and RR Rossouw, 149. But AB De Villiers stole the show, scoring at will to post a massive 149 in only 44 balls. He started the innings with little pressure. Three centuries in an international one day is a record.

Bantu-Masai Gallery Continued from pg 14

Surprisingly, England tied Australia in a six day series. They have a lot to live up to in World Cup. New Zealand whitewashed the hapless Sri Lankans 7-0. Only the big three are doing well for the Lankans; the supporting cast is wanting. New Zealand beat the Pakistanis in two one days. The Kiwis playing at home, have peaked nicely and many opponents will face embarassment. ture.” The symbol also means “Return to the past and get it.”

This is exactly what Sister Elazer and Brother Bantu have done.

Together, they traveled to six African countries: Tanzania (and its island Zanzibar), Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Egypt. The experiences were priceless. Putting the meaning of the Sankofa bird into practice has become a passion. They achieve this by reaching out to individuals to “reason” about cultural heritage and to groups through the exhibiting of their artifacts at various programs and activities. The groups that have benefited from their travels and experiences are the attendees of Black History Month and Kwanzaa programs. The exhibit will enhance other programs during the months of February and March as well as future ventures.

In the planning stage, is to open their home gallery once a month to interested individuals. Contact can be made through the e-mail address: bantumasai@gmail.com “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots” —Marcus Mosiah Garvey

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Hosted by Caribbean American Passport News Magazine

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November 1, 2015 Harbor Park in Baldwin Park

Established in 2010, the Caribbean American Passport seeks to recognize and showcase the Caribbean American Community in Florida.

The Caribbean American Awards seeks to reward the people and businesses that are models of excellence and serve as a shining example of the heights that Caribbean Americans should aspire to climb.

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