Juici Patties acrossFloridaopens
The unmistakable aroma of warm patties and fresh Jamaican spice is spreading across Florida, and Orlando is leading the charge. With the recent opening of two Juici Patties locations in Central Florida, the city has quickly become a flagship market for the beloved Jamaican brand’s U.S. expansion.
Juici Patties, long a household name in Jamaica, announced its global growth plans earlier this year and is making good on that promise. The company has opened seven locations in Florida , based on their website in Florida, with one in Orlando.
Cont'd on page 5
Haitian Flag Day: A Celebration of Freedom, Identity, and Unity
Every year on May 18, Haitians across the globe pause to honor a powerful symbol of their resilience, independence, and national pride, theHaitianflag.
Known in Haitian Creole as Jounen Drapo Ayisyen and in French as La fête du drapeau haïtien, Haitian Flag Day is more than a tribute to a piece of fabric, it is a celebration of the birth of anationandapowerful
reminder of what unity can accomplish.
The origins of Haitian Flag Day date back to May 18, 1803, during one of the most defining chapters in world history, the Haitian Revolution. After the revolutionary leader Toussaint Louverture was captured by French forces in 1802, his successors JeanJacques Dessalines and Henri Christophe led the charge for independence.
Samuel J. Roberts, Publisher/Editor
Celebrating Haiti and the Haitian Culture
Celebrating 221 Years of Haitian Independence & Culture
Each May, as the vibrant red and blue of the Haitian flag wave in celebration, we are reminded not only of a banner stitched together by revolution and resilience, but of a people whose legacy has shaped history far beyond the Caribbean Sea
Haitian Flag Day, celebrated on May 18th, marks the moment in 1803 when Haitians, inspired by the dream of liberty and determined to break the chains of colonial rule, created a flag that would become a symbol of unity and defiance. The removal of the white stripe from the French tricolor was not just an act of design it was a radical declaration: we will be free, and we will forge our own path. That same fire still lives in Haitian hearts today, burning through centuries of struggle and renewal.
May is also recognized as Haitian American Heritage Month, a time to honor the enduring contributions of Haitian descendants across the United States. From Miami to New York, Orlando to Boston, Haitian Americans have enriched the social, cultural, and economic fabric of this country. Whether through public service, education, entrepreneurship, music, or medicine, Haitian Americans continue to embody a dual legacy: the richness of their ancestry and the drive to make a better tomorrow.
Haitian culture is a mosaic of African, Taino, French, and Spanish influences, a living testament to resistance, creativity, and soul. It is felt in the pulse of kompa music, the rhythm of rara parades, the bold colors of vodou flags, the symbolism of Krik? Krak! oral storytelling, and the timeless aroma of griot and diri ak djon djon. It is seen in the artistry of its painters, the power of its poets, and the unshakable spirit of its people.
To celebrate Haitian heritage is to celebrate the world's first Black republic, the country that stood up to the greatest colonial powers and declared, “We are not property. We are people.” That declaration didn’t just liberate Haiti, it inspired liberation movements throughout the Americas and reverberates even today in global conversations about equity, justice, and self-determination.
Yet, despite political hardship, economic challenges, and natural disasters, the Haitian people continue to show the world what true resilience looks like. They rebuild, they rise, and they remember, always grounded in a deep cultural pride that refuses to fade.
As we celebrate Haitian Flag Day and Haitian American Heritage Month, let us honor not just the past, but also the vibrant present and limitless future of the Haitian community. Let us amplify their voices, support their dreams, and acknowledge their indelible contributions to our shared human story.
L'union fait la force — Unity makes strength. Let these words, stitched into the Haitian flag, continue to guide us all.
1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 Office: 407-427-1800 Fax: 407-386-7925 Toll Free: 877-220-8315
For Media Information email: Publisher: sroberts@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Info: .Info@caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Should you desire to review past copies of the publicationgo to http://caribbeanamericanpassport.com and click on the 'Print Archive'.
Editor & Publisher...............................................................
Sam Roberts Guenet Gittens-Roberts
Publisher ...........................................................
Graphic Design & Layout .................................................
Contributing Writers: ............................................................
Samuel Roberts Tony Dyal
Kadeem Roberts
Sandra Fatmi
Nouchelle Hastings
Aleia Roberts
Contributing Photographers ............ ...................................
Khiefer Bell
Dilia Castillo
Israel Torres
Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor
REAL ESTATE WITH KADEEM
More Than a House: Building a Home, a Community, and a Village
As a real estate professional, I help people buy and sell homes every day. But more than that, I help people dream, belong, and build. Because buying a home isn’t just a transaction, it’s saying: I’m planting roots. I’m building a future. I’m becoming part of something greater than myself.
At its core, real estate isn’t just about square footage or zip codes. It’s about the people who fill the rooms, wave to their neighbors, support small businesses down the block, and show up for each other when it matters most. It's about building a village.
Buying your home is often the biggest investment you’ll ever make — financially, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s where you raise your children, host family dinners, celebrate birthdays, and create lifelong memories. But beyond personal comfort, it’s your entry point into a larger ecosystem — your community.
Choosing where to live is a powerful decision. You’re not just picking countertops and lot sizes; you’re choosing schools, parks, local stores, and the people you’ll bump into at the coffee shop. You’re deciding what kind of life you want to lead and what kind of village you want to be a part of.
We all dream of the kind of neighborhood where kids play outside until sunset, where block parties and potlucks bring people together, and where you know your neighbor’s name — and their dog's. But here’s the truth: That kind of community doesn’t magically exist. We build it.
And it starts with simple steps:
Saying hello on your morning walk
Supporting your local corner store or farmer’s market
Volunteering at the school or neighborhood clean-up
Checking in on an elderly neighbor after a storm
These small acts create connection. And connection is the foundation of a village.
There’s an African proverb that says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” But I believe it takes a village to raise all of us to make us more whole, more aware, and more grounded.
When you buy a home, you don’t just gain keys. You gain responsibility — to protect the place you live, nurture the culture you want to see, and open the door for others to belong. Whether you're a first-time buyer, an investor, or relocating for a fresh start, your presence matters.
In this fast-paced, digital world, we crave real connection more than ever. And nothing connects us more than a shared sense of place — a neighborhood with heart, a block with pride, a village with vision.
As your real estate agent, I don’t just want to find you a house — I want to help you find a home that gives you purpose, people, and peace. I want to help you build your life where you feel safe, seen, and supported.
Because when we invest in our homes, we invest in our communities.
And when we build communities, we create the kind of village that lifts us all.
Looking to find your perfect place in a village that feels like home?
Let's talk - 407-780-7364
Juici Patties opens across Florida
Cont’d from pg. 1
Jamaican food lovers in Central Florida have a new reason to celebrate. One of Jamaica’s most iconic and beloved brands, Juici Patties, has officially opened its doors in Florida and also in Orlando, bringing the island’s favorite patties and comfort food to the heart of the city.
Known for its flavorful, flaky patties filled with everything from spicy beef to curried chicken, veggies, and even shrimp, Juici Patties has been a household name across Jamaica for decades. With over 60 locations on the island, the brand is synonymous with quick, authentic, and affordable Jamaican eats.
Customers can expect the full Juici experience — from the
Now, with the grand opening of its Orlando location, Juici Patties is expanding its reach to meet the demand of the Caribbean diaspora and international food lovers alike. This marks a major milestone for the brand as it taps into one of the fastest-growing Jamaican and Caribbean communities in the U.S.
Orlando is already home to major Caribbean festivals, restaurants, and cultural events, and the arrival of Juici Patties further cements the city’s status as a hub for Caribbean culture in Florida. With thousands of Jamaicans and Caribbean nationals calling the region home, the opening is coming at the best time.
footprint in the U.S.
So whether you grew up with patties in your school lunch bag or you’re discovering the magic for the first time, one thing is clear: Orlando just got a whole lot more flavorful.
Juici Patties, Real Jamaican flavor, now right around the corner.
Pantastic Steelpan Jamboree 2025
Presented by Orlando Carnival
Under a bright Central Florida sky and surrounded by swaying palms, Luminary Green Park was transformed into a Caribbean soundscape as the Pantastic Steelpan Jamboree took center stage. This inaugural celebration of steelpan music brought together hundreds of music lovers, families, cultural enthusiasts, and community leaders for an unforgettable day of rhythm, culture, and Caribbean pride.
From the very first notes that rang out across the lawn, the event was nothing short of magical. The soothing chime and powerful pulse of steelpan orchestras from across Florida:
• New Generation Branches Steel Orchestra
• Ocala Steel Orchestra
• UCF Black Steel Ensemble
• Lauderhill Steel Ensemble
• Mello Groove School Orchestra
• Metanza Blue Steel
“This was more than just a concert,” said one attendee. “It was a cultural awakening. You could feel the pride in every note.”
The event wasn’t just about music. Families enjoyed Caribbean food vendors serving up favorites like jerk chicken, roti, curry goat, and fresh fruit juices. Kids danced, played, and took part in cultural activities while attendees browsed vendor booths showcasing Caribbean art, crafts, and heritage apparel.
Organized as part of the Orlando Carnival Downtown weekend of events, the Pantastic Jamboree lived up to its name — it was truly fantastic in every sense. The event honored the past, celebrated the present, and inspired a new generation to embrace and elevate the steelpan tradition.
Downtown
Organizers have already begun planning for next year’s showcase, with a goal of expanding the lineup, adding workshops, and attracting over 5,000 attendees in 2026. Based on the overwhelming success of this year’s event, there’s no doubt that Pantastic will continue to grow into one of the premier Caribbean music experiences in the United States.
Pantastic Steelpan Jamboree will now be presented as a new event to join the Orlando Carnival Downtown line-up of events that showcase the cultural diversity of our Caribbean American community.
As the sun sets and the pans ring out into the evening sky , one thing becomes clear: the beat of Carnival starts here.
One of our attendees came out with her original 'Pantastik t-shirts from over 20 years ago in New York
Luminary Green Park
Orlando Carnival Downtown Team, Terry Olson and Friends
Caribbean Fusion Festival 2025 Unveils Entertainment for 35th Anniversary Celebration
Get ready for a cultural explosion of rhythm, talent, and highenergy performances as the 2025 Caribbean Fusion Festival announces its dynamic entertainment lineup! Hosted by the Caribbean and Floridian Association, Inc. (CAFA), the festival will take place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 12 PM to 7 PM atthescenicKissimmeeLakefrontPark, andthisyearpromises to be one of the most exciting yet as CAFA celebrates its 35th Anniversary.
Festivalgoers can look forward to a non-stop day of music, dance, and culture hosted by the ever-charismatic Creig Camacho,whoreturnsasthisyear’sMCandHost.
�� MainStageHighlightsInclude:
�� Anthony on Steel Pan - bringing the sweet, melodic sounds of the islands with his captivating steel pan performances.
��DJ Code Red – Keeping the energy high with Caribbean beats,internationalhits,andcrowdfavorites.
��Adrianna Clarke – Daughter of the late “Bunny Rugs” of thefamousReggaeGroup,ThirdWorld.”Arisingstarwhose vocalsblendsoulandCaribbeanflair.
�� Natty Ramoutar – A fan favorite known for delivering powerfulchutneyandsocavibes.
��Latin Duo Nfusion – Infusing Latin rhythms into the mix foratruefusionexperience.
�� Nritya Rupa Dance School – Showcasing elegant and traditionalIndiandanceperformances.
��Caribbean Groove Band – Laying down feel-good island rhythmstogetthewholecrowddancing.
�� Flava Dance Troup – Igniting the stage with colorful costumesanddynamicchoreography.
�� Damage Band – Bringing a bold, live Caribbean sound (Zouk/Bouyon) to close out the evening with high-octanevibes.
Andthat’sjustthebeginning,moresurpriseperformances andguestappearancesareexpectedthroughouttheday! This year’s lineup truly captures the spirit of Caribbean Fusion,” said Andy King, President of CAFA, “It’s a reflection of our mission to unite the community through culture,music,andcelebration.”
The Caribbean Fusion Festival is free and open to the public. In addition to entertainment, the event features Caribbean cuisine, artisan vendors, cultural exhibits, a Kids Zone, and health & wellness resources. All proceeds benefit CAFA’s community programs, including scholarships, senior services, hurricane relief, and health initiativesinCentralFlorida.
Comefortheculture.Stayforthevibes.
�� KissimmeeLakefrontPark
�� Sunday,April27,2025|12PM–7PM
�� AdmissionisFREE
How to Stand Out in an AI-Powered World
• In a digital landscape where AI-generated content floods social media, standing out is harder than ever. Whether you’re a brand, entrepreneur, or content creator, the key to success lies in authenticity, engagement, and strategy. Here are quick, powerful tips to make sure your content rises above the noise:
• Show Your Face & Personality AI can create content, but it can’t replicate YOU. Personal branding matters more than ever. Share behind-the-scenes moments, real-life stories, and video content to make authentic connections. People follow people, not just content.
Create Interactive Content
•
•
Don’t just post—start conversations. Use polls, quizzes, and Q&A stickers on Instagram and Linkedin to engage your audience. The more people interact with your content, the more visible you become.
Short-Form Video is King
With platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts dominating engagement, video content is non-negotiable. Keep it visually appealing, and packed with value to grab attention in the first 3 seconds.
•
Be Hyper-Specific in Your Niche
Generic posts get lost in the shuffle. Find your niche and double down on it. Whether it's Caribbean culture, AI in marketing, or fitness for busy moms—narrow your focus to build a loyal audience.
Write for Humans, Not Just Algorithms
AI-generated captions and posts are everywhere, but authentic storytelling still wins. Infuse your content with emotion, personal experiences, and relatable moments that AI can't replicate.
Engage Like a Real Person
•
•
Social media is social—don’t just post and disappear. Spend15-30 minutes daily commenting on posts, responding to DMs, and engaging with your community. The more genuine interactions you create, the more visibility you gain.
In an AI-driven world, authenticity and human connection are your competitive advantage. Show up, engage meaningfully, and create content that resonates beyond the algorithm. That’s how you stand out.
Carnival on the Runway
The 'High Fashion', 'Red Carpet', 'Beauty meets Culture', 'Fashion intertwined with Carnival', 'Sexy takes on the Runway', 'Creativity Shines' and 'Beauty Explodes' at Orlando Carnival's Downtown's Carnival on the Runway presented by our sponsors -
• Orange County Arts & Culture
• Johnnie Walker
• Chronic Guru
• Liquor Library
• Blue Brid Branding
• GGR Marketing & PR
• Negrils Restaurant
• OUC
• Commissioner Shan Rose
• Simple Pop
Orlando Carnival J'ouvert
The Ultimate 'Paint, Powder, Water, Music, and Drinks J'ouvet'
·Amour Mas Band
·Andy Krazy Krew Mas Band
·Bambsee Patrol Jouvert Band
·Carnivaldivaz
·Illusions Mas Band
·Kaios Nation Jouvert
NGONI Jouvert Band
·Slay Mas Band
·Unruly Mas Band
·Vagabond Mas Band
SENIOR LIVING
A SUPPLEMENT COURTESY OF WELLCARE
Get Paid as a Caregiver for a Family Member: What You Need to Know.
Caring for a family member is an act of love, sacrifice, and dedication. Whether it’s an aging parent, a spouse with a disability, or a child with special needs, family caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of their loved ones. But caregiving can also be financially challenging, especially if it requires reducing work hours or leaving a job entirely.
The good news is that some government programs and private resources can provide financial support for family caregivers. If you’re currently providing care for a loved one, here’s how you may be able to get paid for the work you do.
Become a Paid Caregiver Through Medicaid: One of the most common ways to receive financial compensation as a caregiver is through a state Medicaid program. Many states have consumerdirected personal assistance programs, which allow people with disabilities to
hire a family member or friend as a paid caregiver. If your loved one already receives Medicaid benefits, check with your state’s Medicaid office to see if they qualify for a home and community-based services (HCBS) waiver or a self-directed care program. These programs typically cover services such as:
Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
Medication management
Meal preparation and feeding assistance
Light housekeeping
Transportation to medical appointments
Each state has different rules and payment rates, so it’s important to research your state’s specific guidelines. Some states even allow family members to become legally employed caregivers through Medicaid-funded home care agencies.
Caring for a Family Member Who Is Not Eligible for Medicaid. If your loved one does not qualify for Medicaid, other financial assistance options may still be available.
Taking Care of Family — Strategies for Making Caregiving Work
In Caribbean families, taking care of our own isn’t just a choice — it’s part of who we are. We step up for our elders, care for relatives who are ill, and make sure no onegetsleftbehind.
But caregiving takes a toll — financially, emotionally, and physically. What many Caribbean-Americans don’t realize is that there are programs and benefits, especially in the U.S., that can support you and even payyouforthecareyou'realreadyproviding.
If you're caring for a parent, grandparent, or veteran in your family, here’s how to take care of them — and makethesystemworkforyou,too.
1.CheckLong-TermCareInsuranceforCaregiverPay
If your loved one has long-term care insurance, it may include a benefit that allows family members to be paid for caregiving. Some policies even reimburse you directly for helping with daily needs like bathing, cooking,andmobility.
But these rules vary. Some insurers require that you register through a home care agency or complete training. The first step is to call the insurance provider and ask: “Can a family member be paid for providing care?”Don’tassumetheanswerisno—ask,push,and advocate.
2.UsePaidFamilyLeave(IfYou’reintheRightState)
Several states — including New York and California, where many Caribbean-Americans live — offer paid family leave. This lets you take time off work to care for a seriously ill loved one and still get a portion of your paycheck. For example, New York allows up to 12 weeks off with about two-thirds of your pay. If you’re working and also trying to manage care, this benefit can give you breathing room without losing your income. Ask your HR department or check your state’s labor websiteforhowtoapply.
3.Veteran Benefits: Get Paid to Care for a Veteran in YourFamily
If your parent or spouse served in the military, don’t overlook veteran care programs. The Veteran-Directed Home and Community-Based Services program gives qualified veterans a flexible budget to hire caregivers — and yes, that can include family. A counselor helps set up a care plan, and then your loved one decides how to use their care funds, often choosing a trusted family memberoverastranger.
AnotherpowerfulbenefitisAidandAttendance(A&A)— a monthly payment for veterans or their surviving spouses who need help with everyday tasks. This money can legally be used to pay you, the caregiver, for yourtimeandwork.
The Power of $50 per Month
The Power of $50: List Your Business in the New CaribbeanBusinessDirectory
Caribbean American Passport proudly launches the Caribbean Business Directory, a dedicated resource connecting businesses within the Caribbean-American community to customers and opportunities. For just $50, yourbusinesswillgainbothprintanddigitalvisibility.
Why $50 Is a Game-Changer: 1. ReachYourAudience:Our print edition reaches loyal readers eager to support Caribbean-owned businesses. Get your name in front of a dedicatedcommunity.
2.DoubletheExposure: A $50 listing gets you both print and online visibility, expanding your reach and keeping your businessaccessible24/7.
3.Build Trust and Community: Join a network of businesses committed to growth and mutual support. Customerslooktothedirectoryasatrustedsource.
4.Cost-Effective Marketing:
Invest less than the cost of dinner to reach thousands of potential customers and establish your presence.
5.Be a Part of Something Bigger:
Beyond a listing, connect with a community that celebrates and supports each other’s success.
ReadytoGrow? Submit your listing today and be part of a powerful resource for just $50. Visit our website or contact usformoreinformation.
VISITUS
Horse Laugh and the Politicians
"H.L. Mencken was a journalist, satirist, social critic, cynic and freethinker known as the “Sage of Balimore” USA. As I was leaving Canada to spend a few days with my sons in Washington, D.C. where I had spent a lot of time working for PAHO (Pan American Health Organisation), I thought of my time there. As the great Mencken said, “One horse-laugh is worth ten thousand syllogisms. It is not only more effective; it is also vastly more intelligent.” In a way, that is totally true. George Carlin, the comedian and social critic, agreed. First, he said, “In America, anyone can become President. That’s the problem.” Later, he added, “When you’re born you get a ticket to the freak show. When you’re born in America, you get a front row seat.” The great Grouch Mark, saw it differently, “All people are born alike. Except Republicans and Democrats.” In the Caribbean it is the same with basically two parties in each country. Stephen Colbert, the comedian, put it within a broader context, “If our founding fathers wanted us to care about the rest of the world, they wouldn’t have declared their independence from it.”
One of the great female actress, writer and producer, Lily Tomlin, put it in a different context, “Ninety eight percent of the adults in the country are decent, hardworking, honest Americans. It’s the other lousy two percent that get all the publicity. But then, we elected them.” Dan Rather, the journalist, said what some people in the U.S. prefer, “Americans will put up with anything provided it doesn’t block traffic.” Jackie Mason, the actor and comedian, talked about men, women and choices, “Eighty percent of married men cheat in America. The rest cheat in Europe.” Bill Maher, writer and humourist, added a “New Rule”, “This Valentine’s Day, Americans must remember that politicians are like a box of chocolates. We bite into them to find out what’s on the inside only to discover that Democrats are often soft and gooey and Republicans are mostly nuts.” The best ending for this group is Paul Goodman with a great ending, “In America you can say anything you want, as long as it doesn’t have any effect.”
For what it’s worth, this is me, not just in Canada or the US but increasingly everywhere! The reason is the sense, or even nonsense, regard whether you could talk when you visit or you shut your trap. The musician, Bruce Springsteen, is upset that there is as much noise as music. He said, “I have spent my life judging the distance between American reality and the American dream.” The female journalist and television actress, Cristina Soralegui, a Cuban-American, put it differently, “To realise the American Dream, the most important thing to understand is that it belongs to everybody. It’s a human dream. If you understand this and work very hard, it is possible.” For me, especially, as well as my many friends originally from the Caribbean, I went with what Martin Luther King, Jr. sees at both the beginning and end, “I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.” However, the great H.L. Mencken, saw it from a different perspective. He made it clear, “The most dangerous man to any government is the man who is able to think things out for himself, without regard to the prevailing superstitions and taboos. Almost inevitably he comes to the conclusion that the government he
...
By Tony Deyal
lives under is dishonest, insane and intolerable, and so, if he is romantic, he tries to change it. And even if he is not romantic personally, he is very apt to spread discontent among those who are"
This is why Mencken was considered a controversial journalist and a pungent critic, but also a humorous and combative, especially against the middle class. He was probably the most influential American literary critic who very often jabbed at American social and cultural weaknesses. This is an example of his view of his country and home, “On some great and glorious day the plain folks of the land will reach their heart’s desire at last, and the White House will be adorned by a downright moron.” He was convinced that politicians, and I am convinced it is all of them not just those in the US, had a major plan when it comes to dealing with the people, “The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary.” With several Caribbean and other countries due to have General Elections within the rest of this year and the next, I was laughing at Mencken’s comment at the U.S. folks because it know that it is not they alone, “The men the American people admire most extravagantly are the most daring liars; the men they detest most violently are those who try to tell them the truth.” I got that myself from a party group that had won an election and, with two years left before the next election, I told them that there were six areas where it would be close and they should start working to ensure that they reached out to everyone, white, black and in between. I got laughter, hard talk, even some cursing that I was talking nonsense, and they would win easily. I bet one of them a black coffee if I won, and six bottles of Champagne if he won. He lost, but cheap as it was, I never got the coffee.
In a way it is what H.L. Mencken saw as a major problem, “The government consists of a gang of men exactly like you and me. They have, taking one with another, no special talent for the business of government; they have only a talent for getting and holding office. Their principal device to that end is to search out groups who pant and pine for something they can’t get and to promise to give it to them. Nine times out of ten that promise is worth nothing. The tenth time is made good by looting A to satisfy B. In other words, government is a broker in pillage, and every election is sort of an advance auction sale of stolen goods.” It is what we call, “Goods to the last drop!” Or, for that matter, dump in a fast shop. The only way out is to take the advice of James Baldwin, the civil rights activist, “In every country of the world, regardless of who’s in charge at the time or forever, a profound understanding of citizenship is the only safeguard of democracy and the best defence of social, political, economic and environmental justice.”
*Tony Deyal is last seen but not heard, especially when it comes to politics.
