Caribbean American Passport News Magazine June 2016 web

FREE

Your Passport to the Caribbean American Community

A Tribute to the Victims of the Pulse Night-Club Tragedy

National Caribbean American Heritage Month Celebrates 10th Anniversary

CAHM Texas CAHM Charleston

t was a sad day in Orlando when the actions of a troubled, un-happy, confused, selfish and cowardly man took the lives of so many innocent people and changed the lives of so many.

• Stanley Almodovar III - Age 23 • Amanda Alvear - Age 25 • Oscar Aracena - Age 26 • Rodolfo Ayala - Age 33 • Antonio Davon Brown - Age 29 • Darryl R. Burt II - Age 29 • Jonathan Camuy - Age 24 • Angel Luis Candelario-Padro - Age 28 • Omar Capo - Age 20 • Simon Carrillo - Age 31 • Luis Daniel Conde - Age 39 • Cory James Connell - Age 21 • Tevin Eugene Crosby - Age 25 • Anthony Luis Laureano Disla - Age 25 • Deonka Deidra Drayton - Age 32 • Leroy Valentin Fernandez -Age 25 • Mercedez Marisol Flores - Age 26 • Peter O. Gonzalez-Cruz - Age 22 • Juan Ramon Guerrero - Age 22 • Paul Terrell Henry - Age 41 — Continued on 5 —

CAHM Orlando

CAHM Miami

By Mellissa Thomas es, this is the tenth anniversary of National Caribbean American Heritage Month (CAHM). Already. Ih big fih ten, nuh true? So, to celebrate, it is important to go back to the beginning and remember how this occasion came to be and why it matters, because people never know where they are going unless they know where they are from, right? Besides, it doubles as an excuse to celebrate all over again along the way. (And if there is one thing Caribbean people are good at, it is a celebration.)

The Genesis CaribbeanAmericanMonth.org explains that in June 2005, the House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution, sponsored by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, recognizing the significance of Caribbean people and their descendants in U.S. history and culture.

Continued on page 7

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

2

L I F E S T Y L E

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

Positive Thoughts, Positive People, Positive Results Samuel J. Roberts, Publisher/Editor

C

aribbean and the minority communities have for so long struggeled for survival and for our place at the table that we sometimes still think that there are limited opportunities and that we must therefore fight with each other for the right to succeed or to sit at the table.

We are still enslaved with the small minded mentality that forces us to pull each other down rather than lift and support each other. We have worked and served the Central Florida community for many years in community organizations, non-profit groups and business chambers. We have been told stories about just about everyone and their mothers, we listened to members of our community try to tear down others in the minority community with petty jealousy, tales of misgivings, and stories as long as you could imagine…….it is truly SAD.

Think big; there is enough opportunity out there for us all to get a large enough piece of the pie to live a comfortable life. We need to stop fighting with each other over the crumbs that are left on the table and realize that we are much stronger as a united community supporting each other while demanding more……there’s enough to go around for all of us to have a whole slice or even a whole pie for ourselves. We need to understand the mentality of the majority and go after the bigger markets for our products and services while also supporting our own local communities.

We spend too much time being distracted by the negativities and negative folks within our circles and our communities.

I’ve said this may times and I’ll say it again….."FOCUS ON YOUR VISION and YOUR MISSION, DON’T BE DISTRACTED BY THE IDIOTS OUT THERE"

I have often thought that maybe it’s because we just don’t see the big picture or because we’ve all come from small villages or towns or communities and we just don’t truly understand the numbers game.

Coming from Guyana, where the population, for as far back as I could remember was 750,000…..even with all the new births, deaths, migration…..we’re consistent at 750,000. Jamaica has an approx 1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 imate population of 2.9 million, Barbados has a population of Office: 407-427-1800 approximately 290,000, Trinidad & Tobago has an Fax: 407-386-7925 approximate population of 1.2 million, Antigua has an Toll Free: 877-220-8315 approximate population of 92,000, Grenada has an For Media Information email: Publisher: approximate population of 110,000 and US Virgin Islands sroberts@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Sales: sales@caribbeanamericanpassport.com 106,000 (just to name a few). However the population in Info: .Info@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Should you desire to review past copies of the publication Florida is approximately 19 million, in the Southeast USA it’s go to http://caribbeanamericanpassport.com and click on the approximately 88 million, in the USA it’s approximately 321 Print Archive. million, and the World population is approximately 7.4 billion. Editor & Publisher ............................................................... Sam Roberts Let’s breakdown the numbers game into numbers you can Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts understand – Florida has a population of 19 million, the Graphic Design & Layout ......................................Jan Longwell-Smiley Caribbean American community represents approximately Contributing Writers: ............................................................ Tony Dyal 10% of that 19 million = 1.9 million. Let’s assume there are ..............................................................................................Ryan Davis 5,000 Caribbean owned business across Florida; if we just focus ........................................................................................Sasha Dookoo ............................................................................................ Gail Seeram on the Caribbean American community, if 10% of that 1.9 .........................................................................................Sasha Watson million spend $50 per week with those 5,000 Caribbean ........................................................................................ Kamal Abdool American businesses that would equate to approximately Contributing Photographers ............ .................................Ted Hollins $500,000,000 ($500 million) in total sales per year, which ...................................................................................................Gail Zucker equates to $100,000 per Caribbean owned business……is that .......................................................................................... Sandra Fatmi enough? DO THE MATH, let us work on supporting each .............................................. ..............................................Brion Price Central Florida Distribution...................................................Roy Benn other……spend local, grow national, think international and South Florida Distribution ........................................Norman Williams dominate the WORLD with positive spending.

NorthFlorida Distribution ...................................................Theo Jack Jr. Copyright (C) 2016 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

3

ImmigrationINFO

TM

Immigration News For Our Community

Documents required for Immigrant Visa Processing Abroad

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

@GailSeeram FREE In-Office Consultation FREE Live Chat www.MyOrlandoImmigrationLawyer.com he most frustrating part of the immigrant visa process when the beneficiary is living outside the United States is gathering supporting documents.

About six (6) to nine (9) months before the immigrant visa (or green card) is available for issuance at the U.S. Embassy, the National Visa Center will request certain supporting documents from the petitioner and beneficiary. This article will briefly list and describe the supporting documents required by the Department of State, National Visa Center. Note, all the original certified documents that are submitted to the National Visa Center are NOT returned to the petitioner or beneficiary.

1.

Birth Certificates – Each family member traveling to the United States must submit an original (or certified) copy of their birth certificate. With Guyana, they like to see an original issued within the last year. Also, an original (or certified) copy of the petitioner’s birth certificate should also be submitted.

Adoption Documentation - If an intending 2. immigrant child was adopted and if the child’s application to immigrate is based upon a parent-child relationship, then an original (or certified) copy of the adoption decree, adoptive birth certificate, custody documentation and home study must be submitted.

Marriage and Divorce Certificates – If the 3. petitioner or beneficiary has been married or divorced, then an original (or certified) copy of EACH prior and current marriage certificate and final judgment of divorce should be submitted. Note, a legal marriage recognized anywhere in the world is recognized by the United States.

Please remember to disclose ALL prior marriages.

4

4.

Photographs - Each family member traveling to the United States must submit two identical 2 x 2 inch (51 x 51 mm) color photographs.

Military Records - If you served in the military of any 5. country, you must obtain a photocopy of your military record.

Arrest, Court, Prison Records - If you were arrested or 6. convicted of a crime, you must obtain a certified copy of each arrest, court and prison record, regardless of the fact that you may have been granted amnesty, a pardon, or other act of clemency. If the arrest, court or prison records are unavailable or have been destroyed (or purged) then obtain a letter from that agency on letterhead stating that a search was conducted and the records do not exist.

7.

Photocopy of Valid Passport Biographical Page - Each family member traveling to the United States must submit a photocopy of the biographic data page of their valid passport.

The biographic data page is the page of your passport with a photograph, name, date, and place of birth.

Police Clearance - Each family member traveling to 8. the United States that is over age sixteen (16) must submit an original police clearance from every country lived for more than six (6) months. Note, police certificates expire after one year, unless the certificate was issued from your country of previous residence and you have not returned there since the police certificate was issued.

9.

Affidavits of Support – The petitioner must completed Form I-864 and show they earned the required income under the poverty guidelines. Also, the petitioner must submit tax returns from the last three (3) years, employer verification letters and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.

10.

Form DS-260 Confirmation – This is the online immigrant visa application that has to be completed for EACH family member traveling to the United States.

As you can see, the above list is quite long and exhaustive. It can be quite overwhelming if it involves a family and not just one person. It is recommended seeking counsel or advice from an immigration lawyer if the petitioner or beneficiary has questions. If the correct supporting documents are not submitted to the National Visa Center, then the immigrant visa can be denied at the U.S. Embassy.

For more information, contact Gail Law Firm: Email: Gail@GailLaw.com Phone: 1-877-GAIL-LAW or 407-292-7730 www.MyOrlandoImmigrationLawyer.com FREE in-office consultation – FREE Live Chat

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

— Pulse Tragedy, continued from page 1 — • Frankie Hernandez - Age 27 • Miguel Angel Honorato - Age 30 • Jimmy De Jesús - Age 50 • Javier Jorge-Reyes - Age 40 • Jason Benjamin Josaphat - Age 19 • Eddie Jamoldroy Justice - Age 30 • Christopher Leinonen - Age 32 • Alejandro Barrios Martinez - Age 21 • Juan Chavez Martinez - Age 25 • Brenda Lee Marquez McCool-Age 49 • Gilberto Silva Menendez - Age 25 • Kimberly Morris - Age 37 • Akyra Murray - Age 18 • Geraldo Ortiz-Jimenez - Age 25 • Joel Rayon Paniagua - Age 31 • Jean Carlos Mendez Perez - Age 35 • Enrique L. Rios - Age 25 • Eric Ivan Ortiz Rivera - Age 36 • Jean Nieves Rodriguez - Age 27 • Xavier Emmanuel Serrano - Age 35 • Christopher Sanfeliz - Age 24 • Yilmary Rodriguez Solivan-Age 24 • Edward Sotomayor Jr. - Age 34 • Shane Evan Tomlinson - Age 33 • Martin Benitez Torres - Age 33 • Juan Rivera Velazquez - Age 37 • Luis Vielma - Age 22 • Luis Daniel Wilson-Leon - Age 37 • Jerald Arthur Wright - Age 31

Life is too precious a commodity to be lost so senselessly.

To the victims of Pulse Night Club, you may be gone but YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN !!!!!

BLACK AND WHITE ...Thoughts from a Caribbean American Teenager - Jason Macedo

Black and white what's the difference?

One has gold teeth and one wears a sweater vest. BOTH BLEED RED. So what's the difference between black and white? One is tall and one is small. BOTH HAVE ARMS AND LEGS. So what's the difference between black and white. One is dark and one is light. BOTH CAN COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER. So what is the difference between people that both have arms and legs, bleed red and can communicate with each other. Is it that one sounds different or looks different. So If we all were to be the same just on a blank face aren't we still just black and white. I think we spend too much time picking out each other's difference quick to pull them out, skipping over our alike features. We are killing each other over religion and color, the same thing we did 100's of years ago, and yet we have advanced? How could we have advanced if we are still in the same spot? Our surroundings have advanced but people are still in the same place. This isn't a cop vs the black people thing, this is arrogant human behavior on both sides.

For all 556 black men that have died to the hands of cops, think about all the cops that have been killed working to protect us from criminals who are both BLACK and WHITE. But we are too busy to antagonize the group of people who have lost their family to something so irreplaceable and heart breaking. If we want to change society we have to change ourselves we have to make the first steps, for we are the future. Instead of pushing each other away let's bring everyone together, we are one. There is only one human race and whether you are gay, black, jewish, muslim, white, spanish we are one. Now just because you don't agree with something doesn't mean you have to hate it.

So what's the difference between black and white? The answer is nothing both are dirty and both are clean.

BOTH CAN BE TALL, BOTH ARE FREE, BOTH CAN LOVE, and BOTH HAVE BRAINS and BOTH share one fear and that is the color of red, the red runs through our veins, the red we see when we get hurt, and the red that keeps us alive.

So what's the difference?

5

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

BEST OF THE BEST 2016 LIVES UP TO ITS NAME

By Gail Zucker

Visit our website for more pictures - www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

6

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

See full article on page 16

National Caribbean American History Month Continued from pg 1

However, according to the Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS), the battle for CAHM went back even farther. ICS’s effort began in 1999 with a petition to President Bill Clinton for the recognition of a Caribbean American Heritage Month. In 2000, the Institute began leading activities in celebration of June as Caribbean American Heritage Month in Washington, D.C..

Congresswoman Barbara Lee had ironically tabled the bill in 2004. It was not until Dr. Claire Nelson, Founder and President of the ICS, reintroduced the bill in 2005 that it passed in the House of Representatives.

On Valentine’s Day the following year, the resolution passed in the Senate. President George W. Bush issued the official Proclamation June 5, 2006, and according to ICS’s website, actress and singer Sheryl Lee Ralph and basketball great Rick Fox were named official spokespersons for National Caribbean American Heritage Month that year. Since the 2006 proclamation, a presidential proclamation has been annually issued in the month of June.

a State of the Caribbean Summit at Texas Southern University on June 17 featuring U.N. Caribbean Ambassadors.

In Maryland, CAHM events included the D.C. Caribbean Film Festival, a “Taste of Dominica” fundraiser event to aid children affected by Tropical Storm Erika in Dominica, and even a factory tour of chocolate from cocoa single-sourced from the Caribbean in Gaithersburg.

In Louisiana, the New Orleans Caribbean Festival included the launch of Bayou Bacchanal, a performance by the Bayou Steel Orchestra, and other cultural events in multiple locations around the city.

Lynn, Massachusetts, held its CAHM festival at the Lynn Museum with food, music, and fun for the kids.

Charleston, South Carolina held its Carifest 2016, which included a symposium, a parade, a salute to women, a children’s carnival, and carnival day (June 25).

The inaugural year was celebrated with events in New York City, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, OrIn Brooklyn, the Dance Caribbean Collective held lando, Philadelphia, its second annual New Camden, Minneapolis, Traditions Festival, and Oakland. The cities “Dance Your Caribheld briefings (D.C.), bean”, which featured breakfasts, church celseveral electrifying dance ebrations, symposiums, performances. receptions, legislative conferences, press conferences, art festivals, business and trade expos, a Hollywood Florida had no shortage of CAHM celebrations. South Florida tribute (L.A.), and even a book launch. had celebrations in Fort Lauderdale (Caribbean Jazz), Miramar (Alison Hinds live), Hollywood (Colors of the Caribbean), MiSince its inauguration, CAHM has exploded, along with the ami (Taste of the Caribbean) and Lauderhill, which also held Caribbean American population, and is now freely commemo- its red carpet CAH Festival Awards Gala at the Lauderhill Perrated all over the U.S. with parades, festivals, cultural celebra- forming Arts Center. tions that encompass all of the arts; and forums, expos, and seminars which educate the business community in the Carib- In Central Florida, Volusia County held its annual CAHM fesbean Diaspora and nurture relations between the Diaspora and tival in Deland June 19, which included steel band, reggae, home countries, such as this year’s Jamaica Diaspora Summit, soca, and Latin music, live entertainment, art displays, and a held June 24-26 in Kissimmee, Florida. domino tournament. Orlando held its CAHM festival on June 26. The annual festival, produced by the Caribbean American Caribbean Americans in History Passport and in collaboration with the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce, was held as an indoor and outdoor Caribbean immigrants have shaped U.S. history in nearly ev- festival this year at Orlando Fashion Square Mall and included ery facet of society. From founding father Alexander Hamilton food tastings, music, health care screenings, and art displays.

(Nevis-born) influencing the American economy as Secretary of the Treasury, to originators like Jean Baptiste Point du Sable What the Future Holds (reportedly from Haiti) who is known as the “Founder of Chicago”, to veteran award-winning actress Cicely Tyson (Nevis The U.S. Census Bureau reports that 4 million people migrated descendant) and award-winning actor Sir Sidney Poitier (Ba- to the U.S. from the Caribbean in 2014. At such rates, the Carhamas descendant) captivating America’s imagination ibbean community will continue to surge, deepening its multionscreen, to General Colin Powell (Jamaica descendant) forg- national cultural imprint and increasing its volume in the ing foreign relations as Secretary of State under George W. Bush, public consciousness. Supermarkets now offer “ethnic” or “into Stokely Carmichael (Trinidad descendant) and Malcolm X ternational foods” aisles, acknowledging the purchasing power (Grenada descendant) strengthening Black America to awaken of the Caribbean-American population, which boasts a meand rise against white racism, to The New Yorker journalist dian income of just over $41,000. Those in the business world, and bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell (Jamaica descendant) like South Florida-based Infinite Marketing Group Executive creating paradigm shifts in the American business world, to Director Garfield Price, are working to make other major corpoets like Claude McKay (Jamaica descendant) who continue porate brands take notice of Caribbean-Americans’ buying to enrich the American fabric with artful words that intrigue power as well. According to Price, the wealthiest population in the American (and Caribbean) mind, to young disruptive cul- South Florida is Caribbean-Americans, thanks to their ownertural icon Rihanna (Barbados-born), the U.S. could never deny ship of successful restaurants, shops, and tourism real estate or disown its Caribbean influence. (bed-and-breakfasts, etc.). Furthermore, NewsOne reported as far back as six years ago that Caribbean Americans were callCongresswoman Shirley Chisholm (Barbados descendant), the ing for the ethnic group to have its own box on the U.S. Cenfirst black woman to ever be elected to U.S. Congress in 1968, sus, and that demand is increasing. and passed away in 2005, made history in an even more monumental way. She was the first black majority-party candidate All of these trends line up with Dr. Nelson’s original intentions to campaign for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomina- for CAHM. “It was never about creating a cultural extravation (1972), and though she did not receive the nomination ganza [like Black History Month] but about creating a politiduring her time in office, her trail is now re-illuminated with cal organizing space for Caribbean-Americans,” she told InSecretary Hillary Clinton securing the Democratic Party’s presi- ternational Business Times earlier this year. “It’s an opportudential nomination in 2016. nity to get people to see themselves as ‘other’ and have some links back to the region.”

How We Celebrated CAHM 2016 Jamaica native Mellissa Thomas is the author of seven books, all This year’s celebrations ran the gamut. In Texas, the Carib- available on Amazon.com. She is also a journalist, freelance manubean American Foundation of Texas launched its first annual script editor, screenwriter, and ghostwriter. You can learn more about Houston Caribbean Film Festival June 18 and 19, preceded by her at mellissathomas.com.

7

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Guyana 50th Year of Independence

NEW YORK: A mammoth parade through the streets of Brooklyn and a massive Unity Concert at South Shore High School Park, Brooklyn, brought the curtains down on the one week New York celebration of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence. The New York Guyana Jubilee Celebration from June 4 - 12, 2016, was organized by Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary Celebration Committee (New York).

The parade, which commenced at Church and Utica Avenues in the heart of the Guyanese-American community in Brooklyn, was led by Committee Chairman, Mr. Rickford Burke, Guyanese American New York State Senator-Hon. Roxanne Persaud, Guyana's 2nd VicePresident and Minister of National Security, Hon. Khemraj Ramjattan and Guyana's Minister of Public Infrastructure, Hon. David Paterson. The Christian Fellowship Pathfinder Club Marching Band was the drum corps of the parade.

Thousands of proud Guyanese revelers danced and gyrated to Adrian Dutchin's "Show Me Yuh Flag," several other Jubilee songs by Guyanese artists and Soca music from around the Caribbean. The parade flowed up Church Avenue, south into to Ralph Avenue and ended at the South Shore High School Park at Glenwood and Ralph Avenues.

Hundreds of NYPD officers lined the barricaded route as police officers on motorcycles and in marked vehicles steered through the Brooklyn streets lined with spectators waving Guyana flags.

The parade reflected diversity and Guyanese unity. The Indo-Guyanese community in Queens led the parade with a float promoting Lakshmee Singh's Radio and TV shows.

The talk show host herself, flanked by several beauties and dancers, waved to the overjoyed crowd. Singh is organizer of the annual Diwali parade and cultural show in Richmond Hill, Queens.

massive turnout, causing the New York Police Department to mobilize additional personnel and close entrances. Hence thousands of persons, including Jubilee Celebration Committee members, could not gain entry. Patrons who were locked out of the park were however undaunted. They continued the festivities on the street which was blocked off by Police.

Burke also observed that NYPD reported that there was no incident and showered high praises on Guyanese community for being orderly and well behaved. “For two consecutive years, thousands upon thousands of Guyanese turned celebrated significant occasions in our country’s history without incident.

Another float, on a decorated giant eighteen wheeler tractor trailer, blasted Soca music which electrified the massive crowd of thousands of Guyanese of all ages. The gem of the parade was a picturesque carnival scene with a sea of Guyana flags and revelers decked in colors of the flag.

Passersby stopped and waved. Some joined the celebration, which also attracted many other West Indians.

“This level of civility and orderliness is rare in New York City. This speaks to the peaceful nature, selfdiscipline and decency of the Guyanese people. I congratulate them. They've done our country proud.

I’m confident that we’re earned greater respect and influence here in New York,” Burke said.

The after parade unity concert at South Shore attracted a

The Concert was sponsored by El Dorado Rum!.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

8

Jamaica Diaspora 2016 Southern United States Summit & Gala

T

“A Historic Event and a Phenomenal Success”

he weekend of June 24th - June 26th marked the historic convening and staging of the Jamaica Diaspora Summit and Gala in Orlando, Florida by Wayne Golding Sr. Esq., the Jamaica Diaspora Advisory Board Member for the Southern United States and a stellar and flawless supporting multi-national team and volunteers. The Summit Aptly themed “Providing a Road Map to Power and Influence”, did not disappoint, and the Summit is now ranked as one the most productive for the Jamaican Diaspora.

The event was well supported by attendees from across the 13 Southern State region and Jamaica. The opening speakers hailed from both sides of the Jamaican political divide and featured Senator Kamina Johnson- Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and Mr. Peter Bunting, M.P. Also in attendance were representatives from several Diaspora Organizations, The Jamaica Consulate – Miami, National Land Agency, the Registrar General, the Private sector and a plethora of Diasporans. The event was made possible by the sponsors namely – The Golding Law Group, PLC, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill – Orlando, GGR Marketing & Public Relations, Enchanting Event Designs, Quickship Caribbean Services, Caribbean Sunshine Bakery, Caribbean Affair Connection Radio Show – WOKB-1680AM, Caribbean American Passport Newsmagazine, Jamaica National Building Society, Transtar Transportation Group, Inc. and Rinehart Dental just to name a few.

The opening plenary “Mapping the Jamaican Diasporan’s Journey to Success, Power and Influence” was moderated

by Mr. Wayne Golding Sr. Esq. The Panelist were Mr. Sydney Roberts – Director Jamaica Awareness, Mr. Robert Gaye CEO of Transtar Transportation Group, Inc, Vice Mayor of Stuart, Florida Mrs. Eula Clarke Esq., and Mr. Malachi Smith – Artist and Miami Dade Police Sergeant.

“Moving the Jamaica Diaspora Forward, controlling the narrative, building capacity, and setting a unified agenda” was the second plenary. Moderated by Mr. Dervan Malcolm of Power 106, the panelist were Mrs. Dahlia Walker Huntington Esq., Mr. Freddie McGregor, O.D. International Reggae Artist, Consul General Mr. Franz Hall and Father Horace Ward.

Education Trust and Mr. Claston Sunanon – Director of Fuel and Power Marketing - Orlando Utilities. There was also a special meeting and discussion convened between Senator Kamina Johnson –Smith with local future leaders.

The Jamaica Diaspora Gala later that evening featured Senator Kamina Johnson-Smith as the Guest Speaker and was masterfully cermonized by Mr. Dervan Malcolm and Mrs. Diana “Lady D” Taylor. We had the pleasure of having Eight year-old violinists Leah Flynn, serenade us, Dub Poet Mr. Malachi Smith – entertain us like only he can, and the surprise performance by Freddie McGregor left everyone wanting for more. Most notable was the formal recognition of over 25 individuals, corporate partners and volunteers for their stellar contributions to the Diaspora and organization of this historic Jamaica Diaspora Summit and Gala 2016.

Wayne Golding Sr. Esq., the Jamaica Diaspora Advisory Board

Deputy CG Dale Jones, Suzette Rochester, Peter Bunting M.P. and Cheryl Wynter Senator Kamina Johnson-Smith facilitated the discussion of “Effecting Diaspora Partnership between the Government of Jamaica and the Private Sector.”

The third and final plenary was moderated by Commissioner Winston Barnes, the panelist were Mr. Charles Ramdatt City of Orlando Deputy Public Works Director, Mr. Hezedean Smith – Assistant Chief of Orlando Fire Department, EMS, Professor, Ms. Latoya Harris the Public Private Partnership Manager of National Distinguished attendees flank Consul General and Senator Kamina Johnson- Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

Please see attational pictures on page 15 and on our website @ www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

9

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Letters to My Lawyer™

By Sasha Watson, Esq D

This column is primarily for educational purposes as well as to give the reader general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide any legal advice whatsoever. By reading this column you understand that there is no attorney-cliet relationship between you and writer/pub-lisher. This column should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney.

This column is not published for advertising or solicitation purposes. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

ear

Lawyer: I have been a permanent resident of the US since I was a child. I have been told that I may be a citizen because my dad, who filed for me, became a citizen before I turned 18.

My dad is now deceased. I have since lost my green card and don’t have any proof of my resident status. How do I get a new card or otherwise get proof so that I may be able to obtain a driver’s license, state ID or proof of my US citizenship status?

From Unidentified.

Dear Unidentified: It must be very frustrating to know that you have a lawful immigration status but are unable to produce the documents needed to obtain something as basic as a driver’s license.

It is very possible that you may have derived US citizenship on account of your father’s naturalization. This process is commonly referred to as derivative citizenship. The provisions of immigration law regarding citizenship through derivation can be quite complex and requires a case by case analysis of relevant dates and applicable laws.

The most current version of the derivative citizenship provision of the law became effective on February 27, 2001. If as of that date, your parent was a naturalized citizen and you were a permanent resident of the United States and under 18,

you have acquired U.S Citizenship. If you turned 18 prior to that date, the law prescribed different requirements.

In order to verify your father’s immigration status, you would need to obtain a copy of his immigration records. To request the records of a deceased U.S citizen, you must submit a request to the USCIS genealogy program which is a fee-for-service program that provides researchers with timely access to historical immigration and naturalization records of deceased immigrants, fees range is $15 to $30.

If the records indicated that you derived citizenship through as a result of your father’s naturalization, you may submit an Application for a Certificate of Citizenship (N-600) for legal proof of your status as a US citizen. You could also use the documents obtained from your search to apply for a US passport.

If you did not derive citizenship through your father, you may apply for a replacement permanent resident card (green card) to prove your lawful immigration status. Once you have submitted the I-90 application, you can request an Infopass appointment at your local USCIS Field Office to obtain temporary proof of your permanent resident status (I-551 stamp).

Alternatively, you do still have the option of being U.S Citizen through the naturalization process.

Once you have obtained proof of your lawful immigration status, e.g. green card, naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship or the I-551 stamp, you will be able to use that proof to obtain government / state issued identification.

Please submit your letters to letters@hawmlaw.com. Each month a reader’s letter will be chosen for response.

Letters to My Lawyer™ is a publication of Karlyn Hylton & Sasha Watson of Hylton, Adamson Watson, PLLC 120 E. Colonial Drive |Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-802-3223 | F: 407-377-1971 Email: letters@hawmlaw.com

Accredited & License # ST38788

10

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

BFA Environmental is a Caribbean owned business that has been a long time supporter of the African American and Caribbean American community in Central Florida.

11

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

12

13

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

CAHM 2016 in Orlando

14

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Jamaica Diaspora 2016 Southern United States Summit & Gala “A Historic Event and a Phenomenal Success�

Visit our website for more pictures - www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Commissioner Barnes & Wayne Golding Sr. Esq.,

Wayne Golding Sr. Esq.and Consul General France Hall

Consul General of Jamaica Mr. France Hall

Mrs & Mr. Peter Bunting

Commissioner Winston Barnes

MC's Dervan Malclm and Mrs. Diana "Lady D" Taylor

Vice Mayor of Stuart, FL Mrs. Eula Clark Freddie McGregor and Wayne Golding

15

Father Horace Ward and Honorable Senator Kamina Johnson-Smith

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

I

BEST OF THE BEST 2016 LIVES UP TO ITS NAME By Gail Zucker

t was a perfect Miami day, no rain in sight. Best of the Best 2016 celebrated its 10th Anniversary, May 29, 2016. This is one of the most highly anticipated Caribbean concerts of the year in the US, as it coincides with Memorial Day Weekend, which is also Urban Weekend on Miami Beach. It is held at Bayfront Park, in downtown Miami, so the location is central for everyone.

Concert attendees travel from all over the United States for the long weekend and it is jam packed with events and nightlife from Friday straight through to Monday. The Best of the Best Concert attracts upwards of over 10,000 concert goers yearly.

Food vendors gear up for the multitudes of hungry patrons though the 10 hour span of the show.

The concert has gradually made a shift over the years to include not just dancehall and soca artistes. Some of this years greats included Beres Hammond, Tarrus Riley and Cocoa Tea.

16

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Beres never disappoints, and his performance was exceptional. Cocoa Tea was billed as one of the top acts, and was slated to close the show, but the concert ended abruptly at 11:40pm, after Elephant Man's performance, with no explanation, no Cocoa Tea. Tarrus Riley was given a full set this year, as time ran out last year, and he rushed through his set. Tarrus' band includes the great Dean Fraser & foundation bassie Glen Browne, and they really can jam. Mr Vegas truly delivered, as his set heated up, he peeled off his suit jacket, and his shirt, he eventually leaped into the audience bare chested. Half Pint ran through all his hits through the years, and Nesbeth thrilled the audience singing "My Dream." New artiste Vershon is making a name for himself with his big hit "Use to Hungry."

Best of the Best certainly does live up to the name, and 2016 was a great year.

Call our Office today for Special Fares to : Guyana's 50th Independence Celebrations, Antigua & Barbuda 60th Carnival, Barbados 50th Celebrations & Crop Over

Toll Free 1-877-220-8315 17

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

18

A

Son of the Bates

by Tony Dyal

recent incident involving one of our politicians reminded me of an old joke. It was admission day at one of the posh British public schools for boys.

The new pupil was accompanied by his proud parents and they joined the line to meet the Head Master. When it was their turn the father introduced himself in the most pompous tones, “I am Mr. Bates.” He then nodded to his wife, “Mrs Bates.” And looking at the little boy he said, “My son, Master Bates.” The indignant and troubled Head Master responded with alacrity, “Oh he does, does he? We’ll soon cure him of that filthy habit.”

This is a mistake. In the information age in which we live, we need to understand that information invariably leaks and it spreads, especially with the help of all the new technologies that supplement rather than supplant one another. As a Communications consultant I tell my clients that the worst thing to do is lie. You can select from the truths available those that best suit your side of the story but if you lie you will get caught and, even worse, get caught up in the lie to the point where everything you ever said becomes questionable.

I am not sure if the little boy, his parents or even the Head ever got over that particular issue. In fact, scientists who have done hands on research on the subject have found that 95 percent of men and 72 percent of women have frequent encounters with the heir of the Bates estate and that men in particular seem to benefit the most since these episodes correlate with a decreased risk of prostate cancer.

There are a lot of people who support the Senator and ask for public opinion to “give him a break”. The wise-guys among us nudge one another and ask politely, “But isn’t that what he got? Several in fact!” Of course, they are able to pun and feel superior to the Senator because they are cocksure that no pictures exist of their encounters with young Bates, baytees or bayteases.

In the case of the Senator whose virtual relationship in cyberspace was accompanied by the severe flogging the Head Master may have wanted to inflict on young Bates, the problem was not the deed but being caught at it and having to deal with the embarrassment to which he had not subjected only himself, but also his family, friends, political party and Church. People don’t usually regret doing something, they just regret getting caught.

In this case the Senator is like James Caan’s psychologist. The actor revealed, “I went to a shrink once, but I caught him going to a fortune-teller so I quit.”

But what if..? I am sure that the young lady, whose nude encounters with a cricketer were plastered in the social media, did not expect that to happen.

When a businessman’s comments about some politicians being members of the “rattus” family were secretly recorded and broadcast, he was surprised. And when, just a few days ago, the story broke about “500 females exposed in online ‘porn ring’ scandal there were a lot more than 500 very scared young women.

One of the questions people ask when someone gets caught in the act of committing any kind of socially unacceptable sin is, “What the hell was he thinking?” Clearly, the person was thinking, unclearly and believed that he or she was going to get away with it and not have to explain anything to anyone.

19

The aftermath of the initial exposure is like a rollercoaster ride. It unravels while it picks up speed and it is all downhill after that. President Nixon’s White House Chief of Staff said of Watergate, “Once the toothpaste is out of the tube it is hard to get it back in.” As the Senator learnt, toothpaste is not singular in that regard.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Guyana 50/50 Recognizing the TOP 50 Guyanese in Florida

Nominations Received (to date):

Submit yours with the category today @ CAPnominations@caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Judge Majeed Rick Singh Gail Seeram Naresh & Nadia Boodhoo Dr. Patrick Coggins Andy King Ramzan Roshanah Ali Paul & Anita Singh Lloyd Philips Hari Singh Star & Rosemarie Moonasar Ravi & Zorida Manoo Wesley Kirton Sybille Pritchard Clayton Chand Kash Ramnarain Harry Subraj Joy Agness Ian Moffett Narish & Diana Singh

Dionne Polite John Yates Glen Lall Larry London Vani Lowton Cecil 'Skip' Roberts Harry Bissoon Joy Anderson Chub Bedessee Conrad Taylor Ephraim Adams Creig Camacho Laini Schultz Mark Rodgriguez Lalman Persaud A.A. Ali Lakeram Narain Shivnarine Chanderpaul Ralph Seeram Sukree Boodram Russ Permal David Anderson Rudy Thackurdeen

Maya Trotz Lennox Griffith Allan Gopie Brian Bacchus Mark Bannister Sam & Guenet Roberts George Maynard Frank Cummings Romeco Kissoonauth Colin Baker Gina Trotz Lance Gibbs Christine Franklyn Somdat Jiawan Rajesh Kandhai Victor Boodhoo Derek Basdeo

*Alan Khan *Godfrey Chin

The Guyana 50/50 Awards Gala will be held on November 5th in Orlando The winners, with the most votes, will be announced and honored at the Gala

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

20

By Ryan Davis

EURO 2016 - OUT OF THE SHADOWS The summer of soccer continued in June/July as the European Championships took center stage in France.

Dark horses, Portugal, came from nowhere and scored in the dying minutes of extra time to beat the hosts, France, in the final. It was Portugal’s first ever major trophy and it capped off a tournament where the improbable became the norm.

Portugal’s superstar Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player ever to score in four different European competitions. After leading his country in both goals and assists in the tournament, he unfortunately got injured and limped off the field after only 10 mins in the final.

However, led by their pragmatic coach, Fernando Santos, the Portuguese held firm. Coach Santos's decision to bring on substitute Eder proved to be the deciding factor and the rest is now history.

Pre-tournament favorites France and Germany lived up to their billing. They were the most talented teams from top to bottom and provided more ambition going forward than most of the other teams. Unfortunately they played each other in the semifinal and not the final. Tournament MVP Antoine Griezmann continued his incredible form, scoring 2 of his 6 goals for the competition to see off the Germans in what turned out to be the game of the tournament.

Wales continued their incredible run with a 3-1 victory over the most expensive team of the tournament, Belgium. The semifinals however proved to be too much for the underdogs as they suffered a heartbreaking loss to eventual champs Portugal.

The Bad and the Ugly For every Wales and Iceland team that showed up and defied expectations there was an England or Spain that never lived up to them. England came into the tournament with enough young talent to fill two rosters, but with no tactical direction from their coach Roy Hodgson, they looked lost and confused. Italy’s Antonio Conte on the other hand, took the parts of a Toyota and made a Mercedes. Conte’s masterclass was on display when he took an average Italian side without its injured stars’ Marco Veratti and Claudio Marchisio and outplayed powerhouse Spain who’s “tiki taka” style seemed to have lost some of its effectiveness.

Belgium on the other hand was the complete opposite of Italy.

They came into the tournament with an embarrassment of riches, but looked like a bunch of superstars who showed up on the same pitch on a Sunday afternoon with little to no direction.

“At the end of the day,” Euro 2016 gave UEFA more questions than it did answers. The 2.13 goals per game, was the lowest ever in European Championship history.

Euro 2020 will be far different from the one held in France. It will be spread across 13 cities across the entire continent with London’s Wembley hosting the semifinals and finals.

Hopefully the drastic change in venue means a drastic change on the field.

Underdogs Iceland and Wales turned out to be the fan favorites. The former defied the odds by finishing 2nd in their group ahead of Portugal, then moved on to beat England in the second round by the score 2-1. They eventually lost to France 5-2 in the quarterfinal, but the team and their fans left their mark on the tournament with their exciting play and support.

Wales topped group B leaving England, Slovakia and Russia in their wake. Led by their superstar Gareth Bale,

Portugal’s superstar Cristiano Ronaldo

Goodwill Industries Summer Program Students from six local high schools recently participated in Goodwill’s Community Service Summer Program. The week-long session highlighted the importance of nonprofits in our community and allowed students to experience two volunteer work settings each day.

21

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

THE POWER OF KALE Kale is a powerful green leaf. Kale is a good source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and protein. According to research 1 cup of kale has only 33 calories, zero grams of fat and 3 grams of protein. Kale is a good source of Vitamin A, K, C and B6. Kale is also a good source of minerals such as manganese, calcium, potassium and magnesium.

Some simple ways to incorporate kale into your healthy lifestyle: 1. You can saute kale with some coconut oil which will give the kale a nice flavor, with garlic, sweet onion and some sea salt.

2. Make a smoothie with kale by adding frozen banana, frozen berries and some raw agave as a natural sweetener.

For information about the class call 407-730-30488 or visit www.vegantuneupcafe.com

3. You can make a raw kale salad using baby kale and adding avocado, cranberries, sliced almonds, cherry tomatoes, olive oil and a little sea salt.

Jamaican-Born Sandi Morais has a BA degree from Florida International

4. You can also steam kale and add olive oil, black pepper, minced garlic and a little sea salt.

Uni-versity. She is the author of Recipe for Life vegan/vegetarian cook book. Sandi has been featured in local and national magazines. Sandi teaches a vegan cooking class at La Vie Wellness Spa www.lavieexperience.com To order Recipe for Life vegan/vegetarian cook book visit www.sandimorais.net

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

22

23

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

HOUSE FOR SALE - GUYANA

Newly constructed house for sale on the Corentyne coast, near multiple beaches, the University of Guyana and Rose Hall Town.

Please contact us at Good Living Construction Telephone # 683-5629 Email: goodlivingconstruction@outlook.com

This lovely 2 bedroom plus Study (could be used as a 3rd bedroom) is located in Ulverston Village Berbice and has over 900 square feet of comfortable living space. It sits on a beautiful double lot of over 6000 square feet, with each lot offering its own Transport (the equivalent of a Title).

Asking price is $75 Thousand USD.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

24

“The 50th Anniversary Exhibit: Commemorating Emperor Haile Selassie I’s 1966 State visit to Jamaica and the Caribbean” By: I. Jabulani Tafari “The 50th Anniversary Exhibit: Commemorating Emperor Haile Selassie I’s 1966 State visit to Jamaica and the Caribbean” at the UWI Museum in Jamaica has been extended to the end of the June 2016. The highly acclaimed exhibition was officially declared open on Friday, April 22, 2016 by His Imperial Highness Prince Ermias Sahle-Selassie Haile-Selassie, President of the Ethiopian Crown Council and a grandson of Emperor Haile Selassie I. The exhibit was initially scheduled to close on May 19.

Foundation Inc. for the H.I.M. Emperor Haile Selassie I 50th Visit Anniversary Commemoration Committee which organized a series of activities in Jamaica to mark the occasion.

Prince Ermias and his wife, Princess Saba Kebede were in Jamaica at that time on a special visit commemorating his grandfather’s State Visit to the island in 1966 and after the ribbon cutting ceremony, the Ethiopian dignitary and his royal entourage were given a private tour of the exhibition by Rootz Foundation President Priest Douglas Smith and museum curator Dr. Suzanne Francis-Brown.

The UWI Museum, with the exhibition serving as a backdrop, was also the venue on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 for a Panel Discussion entitled "The Visit of H.I.M Haile Selassie I to the Caribbean: Contextual Considerations". Panelists at the event were University professors Dr. Clinton Hutton, Dr. Michael Barnett and Dr. Jahlani Niaah, along with Rootz Foundation President Priest Douglas Smith. The UWI Museum is located at the UWI Regional Headquarters in Mona, Kingston 7.

“The 50th Anniversary Exhibit” is a Special Collection of 90plus seldom seen color and black and white images of the Ethiopian Monarch’s historic eight day trip to the Caribbean region. However, the primary focus of the mixed media exhibit is Emperor Haile Selassie I’s four day stay in Jamaica in April 1966 and the pictures and video show H.I.M. at various civic and other functions staged in his honor. The graphic images also show the extent of the public adulation and acclaim displayed for the Royal African visitor who was the first African Head of State to make an official State Visit to newly independent Jamaica.

The photos also show the Ethiopian King arriving in Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Haiti and show some of the activities His Imperial Majesty engaged in while in those territories. The pictures are supplemented by transcripts and quotes from the Emperor’s speeches, press clippings published during the visit, and subsequent articles published in local newspapers and magazines. The Rastafari orientation of the presentation adds an essential cultural authenticity and flavor to the one-of-a-kind exhibition and embeds a critical social perspective to the narrative of the display.

The 50th Anniversary Exhibit is curated by Ras I. Jabulani Tafari and Priest Douglas Smith and was produced by the Rootz

25

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Prince Ermias Viewing Exhibit

by Kamal Abdool

D

The Republican & The Donald

onald Trump fired his Campaign Manager today. Cory Lewandowski successfully guided Trump to win the Republican Nomination for the November 2016 Presidential Election. Trump knew that he needed a more experienced Manager to take charge of the National Campaign. Yes Lewandowski did a superb job in securing the GOP nomination but let's be realistic. The Republican Nomination is easy to win, mounting a National Presidential is a totally different ballgame.

Simple game plan. Tell Republicans they work hard, pay the most taxes and you'll create an environment for them to own a small business. Republicans love to hear two things about themselves, they work hard and run their own business.

Remember Joe the Plumber when the Republicans gravitated towards him because he worked hard and owned a small business. Turned out Joe the Plumber didn't even have a Plumber's License.

Secondly, blame the immigrants and Trump came up with a brilliant plan - Build A Wall and get Mexico to pay for it. It won't matter that a ladder one foot higher and a rope two feet longer would negate any protection from a wall costing billions of dollars. In addition there's the topographical challenges, remote desert in Arizona, rugged mountains in New Mexico and for two thirds of the length along rivers. Maybe Trump and the Republicans can overcome these hurdles as they have a simple solution to any problem. If it can't be fixed with a hammer, its an electrical problem.

Another easy strategy to secure the GOP nomination is to demonize poor people. Label them as lazy, deadbeats and criminals looking for a handout. When you take a closer look at privileges and concessions extended to wealthy people, for instance tax breaks, tax loopholes, defense contracts, private prisons, private military companies, the cost to taxpayers for assisting the poor pales in comparison to the billions available to the wealthy.

I smiled when I heard Trump say he read the Bible everynight. Surely the Republicans will see through this one. To their credit Trump and his Advisors knew how to get the Republican juices going. Exploit the 3G Network, yes the 3G Plan. God, Guns, and Gays. Talk how much you love Jesus and you draw in the flock closer. In the process, bash Muslims and now they're salivating. Roll out the Second Amendment, remind them that President Obama will take their Guns away and whether its 30 or 40 Americans mass murdered, any sensible gun safety legislation goes out the window.

Then there's the Gays, evil people who'll destroy America and the American way of life. Talk about the abomination of same sex marriage and God Himself supported Kim Davis, the Kentucky County Clerk who prayed and fasted as she denied marriage licenses to same sex couples.

Donald Trump won the Republican nomination because he embodied the Republican thought process and being the salesman that he is, knew exactly how to how to market and capitalize on their beliefs. Do not underestimate Trump's marketing skills and do not overestimate the emotions of the American people.

Do your part to ensure the Democrats retain the White House and take control of the Senate and House. Only then will sensible and practical gun safety legislation become the law in these United States. Make sure you're registered to vote, know where and when you vote, get a State or Federal picture ID and above all, get ten friends and family to vote Democratic.

The Republican platform 3 G's - God, Guns & Gays

Save the Date November 5th, 2016 Black Tie Gala For more information go to: www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com Tel: 407-427-1800 26

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

27

Habla Español

Nou Pale Kreyòl

Michael A. Mills, LLC

823 N. Thornton Avenue • Orlando, Florida 32803 20 3rd Street SW, Suite 302 • Winter Haven, Florida 33880 Office 321-234-2900 • Fax 407-826-1607 www.injuryassistancelawfirm.com 28

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com