Caribbean American Passport News Magazine June 2014

FREE

Your Passport to the Caribbean American Community

An American icon with deep Trini roots: The ultimate emancipation story

NEWS MAGAZINE

Caribbean American Passport now covers the Entire State of Florida!

Join our growing list of distribution locations and get listed on our distribution list for FREE! Copies will be delivered to your location monthly!

See page 3 for more details.

Orlando Carnival 2014

See story on page 14 R MAYA ANGELOU has emancipated millions.

Generations have been liberated by the wisdom of her words. And many more have been freed by her voice. It is spiritual; a salve for the soul that soothes all kinds of pain. Some of the deepest wounds have been healed by her honesty. There were times when she held America tight in her bosom, rocking the troubles away, with a bountiful liturgy of everyday prayer that she wrote to quiet even the tiniest fear. On other occasions, she illuminated the land with her broad smile; making an entire nation celebrate its commonalities and differences.

Legendary icon Dr Maya Angelou talks to writer Renee Cummings Continued on page 12

Caribbean American Heritage Month Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at City Hall

Heads of Caribbean Organizations along with Commissioner Tiffany Moore-Russell, Rick Singh, Orange County Property Appraiser, Reginald McGill, Laurent Prosper, Consul General of Haiti and Judge Niles, Consul General of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

See story on page 15

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

1

2

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

L I F E S T Y L E THE WHITE HOUSE Sam Roberts, Publisher

Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release May 30, 2014

NATIONAL CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH, 2014

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

own communities. We are also working to advance commonsense immigration reform that will allow future generations of Caribbean Americans to share their talents with our Nation.

As America celebrates our Caribbean heritage, let us hold fast to the spirit that makes our country a beacon to the world. This month, let us remember that we are always at our best when we focus not on what we can tear down, but on what we can build up. And together, let us strengthen the bonds that hold together the most diverse Nation on earth.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2014 as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. I encourage all Americans to celebrate the history and culture of Caribbean Americans with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-eighth.

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION aribbean Americans are part of a great national BARACK OBAMA tradition, descendants of hopeful, striving people who journeyed to our lands in search of a better life. They were drawn by a belief in the power of opportunity, a belief that through hard work and GGR Marketing & Public Relations sacrifice, they could provide their children with chances they 1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 had never known. Thanks to these opportunities and their 407-427-1800 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com talent and perseverance, Caribbean Americans have contribFor Media Information email: capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com uted to every aspect of our society — from science and mediShould you desire to review past copies of the publication cine to business and the arts. During National Caribbeango to http://www.issuu.com/caribbeanamericanpassport and American Heritage Month, we honor their history, culture, search for Caribbean American Passport News Magazine. and essential role in the American narrative.

It is also a time to renew our friendship with our Caribbean neighbors, with whom we share both an ocean and a history. To this end, the United States is expanding cooperation with our Caribbean partners as we promote social justice, grow prosperity throughout the Americas, and create new educational opportunities for young people across the Caribbean basin, as well as for Caribbean Americans in our

Distribution Points - we want to highlight your business on our website and on our social media pages. Please contact us to register your business as a monthly distribution point and get additional exposure for FREE!

*WE'RE HIRING! CONTACT US TODAY!*

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 ....................................... Michelle Allman ...................................................................................... Karma Imaging ......................................................................................... Dillia Castillo ........................................................................ WizSpk Communication ................................................................................ Uriah Photography ..................................................................................... Ronald Williams .................................................................. Miami Dade North Campus Distribution & Sales.................................................... ... Delroy Edwards Distribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts ....................................................................................... Frank Ambrose Copyright (C) 2013 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

3

Corporate Heavy Weights Honored at Invest Caribbean Now n Tues. June 3, 2014: Five top corporations serving the Caribbean region as well as the man who built a tourism empire from the ground up, were honored in New York City, as Invest Caribbean Now 2014 gears up for its fourth presentation and awards reception.

This year, DHL Caribbean was presented the Service Excellence Award – Logistics for its commitment and investment in the Caribbean region and for providing Caribbean customers with quicker courier service while Trinidad & Tobago-based bank, First Citizens, received the Service Excellence Award – Banking for its excellent service, investment and commitment to the Caribbean region and the world, in the field of banking and for being one of the highest-rated indigenous financial institution in the English-speaking Caribbean.

DHL’s Caribbean team, led by Managing Director Reiner Wolfs, was on hand to accept the award at the ICN event in the Cambridge Room at the Harvard Club of New York, while First Citizens Investment Services general manager, Jason Julien, and assistant general manager, Sana Ragbir, accepted on behalf of the bank.

HBO Latin America’s 10-member team, led by Javier Figueras, corporate vice president of Affiliate Relations, received the ICN 2014 Alliance Award for its commitment to partnership and expansion in the Caribbean region, including with TiVi S.A. – the fast-growing television provider in Haiti while One Caribbean Television’s team, led by founder Brian Lilly received the ICN Media Visionary Award for its commitment to the region by its service to over millions of Caribbean nationals daily.

The ICN 2014 Visionary Award for showing strategic decision to expand into a much needed inter-regional carrier in the Caribbean region, was presented to interCaribbean Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart Airways’s team, led by Chairman Lyndon Gardiner while the prestigious 2014 ICN Leadership Award was presented to the Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, OJ, CD, Hon. LLD, Chairman of Sandals Resorts International for commitment and dedication to the Caribbean region and its people.

Stewart along with Sandals CEO, Adam Stewart and a six-member delegation were on hand to accept the award.

Meanwhile, Hollywood actor Malik Yoba brought greetings to delegates while One Caribbean Television’s Joey Stevens and his side-kick Bob was the emcee at the ceremony.

The awards presentation and high powered networking reception was wrapped up with emcee, WNYW-TV Emmy-winning news anchor, Ernie Anastos; a prayer of prosperity by Rev. Dr. Belgrave Pelle, Dean of the Anglican Church of America; a New York State Welcome by Claire McLeveighn, Vice President of Trade and Investment at Empire State Development and a Beijing Welcome by Dr. Ma, Lin, Deputy Secretary-General of Beijing Municipal Government.

The summit moved into several panel discussion including: Global Trends & The Caribbean; Beijing-Caribbean Tourism And Investment Opportunity ; Introducing The New Trend In Tourism – Medical Tourism; Introducing A New Trend In The Caribbean – Clean Energy and the Caribbean Diaspora as a source of investment. Additionally, the first half of the event included an opening address by ICN founder and chairman, Felicia J. Persaud; a keynote address by Harvard graduate Dr. Isaac J. Newton, of Paramount Communications Consultancy; a spotlight on specific investment opportunities in Trinidad & Tobago with Minister of Trade, Industry, Investment and Communications, Sentor Vasant Bharath; an investment announcement on the Caribbean Market Village of St. Lucia and a focus on ‘Advancing Wealth In The Caribbean With Technology,’ from Trinidad-born, LA resident, Anthony Wellington Phills, branding specialist of Disney’s ‘Million Dollar Arm’ and founder of Caribbean Commerce Magazine/Media, Calypso Cloud and Blinglet Inc.

4

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

15th Annual IIFA Weekend & Awards

Generates an Estimated $26.4 Million Impact in Hillsborough County he International Indian Film Academy’s (IIFA) 15th Annual Weekend and Awards generated an estimated $26.4 million in total visitor spending, giving an immediate financial boost to Hillsborough County and making a positive, long-term impact on the destination’s brand.

The multi-day event attracted anestimated 30,000 visitors who generated $19.9 million in direct spending and $26.4 million in total spending. Related media coverage generated13.2 billion media impressions across TV, radio, print and online outlets.

estimated economic impact of approximately $56 million within 12 months.”

“Based on these numbers, it’s safe to say the IIFA celebrations were a tremendous success for our city and our region,” said Santiago Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “During the June television broadcast of the IIFA Awards, more than 800 viewers worldwide will hear the Tampa Bay name, experi-

On the final night of the IIFA Awards alone (April 26), Hillsbor-ough County hotels experienced double-digit increases across all indices, including a 21.1 percent increase in occupancy rate, 34.7 percent increase in average daily rate and an astonishing 62.1 percent increase in room revenue compared to the same day last year. These remarkable increases helped bring April’s hotel metrics and bed tax collections to one of the highest levels in Hillsborough County’s history.

“We at IIFA are extremely proud of the impact the 2014 IIFA Weekend & Awards had in the Tampa Bay region,” said Andre Timmins, IIFA Director. “This was our premiere event in USA, and every day of the weekend was an astounding success – from the IIFA Stomp event, which started the weekend and drew a record-breaking crowd of more than 8,000 people to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, to the IIFA Awards finale which more than 24,000 people watched live at Raymond James Stadium. Beyond the positive shortterm impact of the weekend, we look forward to building a great legacy with the city, developing business, trade and film production relations between India and Tampa Bay, with an

ence our rich authentic culture and see the many treasures our city has to offer.”

IIFA provided Tampa Bay with the opportunity to enter into a new market, host some of Bollywood’s biggest stars and events, allow residents and visitors to experience the universalpassion for Indian Cinema, all while creating a lasting economic impact on Tampa Bay. To view the 15th Annual IIFA Weekend and Awards Economic Impact Report, please visit www.visittampabay.com/research

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

5

Taste the Caribbean at the following Locations: Jacksonville Flavor Paradise Restaurant 6625 Argyle Forest Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32244 904-589-7138 Caribbean Sunshine Bakery & Restaurant 4106 N. Main Street, Jacksonville FL 32206 904-355-0405 Sanford Montego Bay’s Caribbean Take Out 1564 S. French Ave, Sanford FL 32771 (in the Winn Dixie Plaza) 407-320-0930 Orlando Taste of Jamaica 6406 N. Orange Blossom Trail Orlando FL 32810 407-289-5866 To list your location here please contact Sam Roberts at 407-427-1800 or by email at capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com

OCPA Offers Peek at Trending Values in “The State of Real Estate” hat has spurred the increase in the market value of property in Orange County? Where are the big construction booms?

And how much growth have cities within the county seen during the last year?

A panel of real estate, banking and building experts will tackle these and other questions during the inaugural “The State of Real Estate – Sneak Peek at Trending Values,” a forum presented by Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh and the OCPA staff.

The forum will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 18th, at Full Sail Live, located on the campus of Full Sail University, at 141 University Park Dr., Winter Park.

“The value of real estate affects practically every sector of our economy. While there have been challenges in recent years, there have also been growth opportunities,” said Mr. Singh. “Our intent is to share with the community specific numbers and insight on the total taxable value of Orange County and to see where the values are trending.”

Panelists for the forum are: • Chuck Whittall – President, Unicorp National Developments, Inc. • Zola Szerencses – President, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association • Gary Manfredi – Managing DIrector, Sterne Agee Mortgage • A. Wayne Rich, Esq. – Of Counsel, Broad and Cassel • Dana Kilborne – President & CEO, Florida Bank of Commerce • Mark Wiley – President & CEO, Associated Builders and Contractors, Central FL Chapter The panelists will offer a snapshot of what they see happening in the commercial and residential real estate industries now as well as changes they expect to see in the coming year.

6

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

ImmigrationINFO

TM

Immigration News for Our Community

U.S. Passport Card portable alternative to U.S. Passport $55 and previous passport holders will pay $30 for the passport card. Children will pay $40 for a passport card. The passport card is especially a good idea for minor children since they usually do not a driver’s license or ID card to prove their identity.

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

@GailSeeram FREE In-Office Consultation FREE Live Chat – visit www.GailLaw.com

How to apply for a U.S. Passport Card?

If you are interested in applying for a U.S. passport card and you have a U.S. passport book and are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for the card by mail. If you are interested in applying for a U.S. passport card but you have never had a U.S. passport book, you must apply in person using Form DS-11. All passport cards will be returned using First Class Mail. Passport cards cannot be shipped to you using overnight delivery

.S. citizens may apply for a U.S. Passport Card for use during certain international travel and as an identity/nationality document. The passport card will facilitate entry and expedite document processing at U.S. land and sea portsof-entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The card may not be used to travel by air.

How secure is the card?

To facilitate the frequent travel of U.S. citizens living in border communities and to meet the Department of Homeland Security operational needs at land borders, the passport card will contain a vicinity-read radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. This chip will link the card to a stored record in secure It will otherwise carry the rights and privileges of the U.S. pass- government databases. port book and will be adjudicated to the exact same standards.

The Department of State issues this passport card that is less Because the wallet-sized passport card does not offer as many expensive and more portable alternative to the traditional passport book. The card has the same validity period as a passport opportunities to embed security features as a passport book, the Department uses laser engraving and state-of-the-art secubook: 10 years for an adult, five for children 15 and younger. rity features to mitigate against the possibility of counterfeiting and forgery. There will be no personal information written How much does the Passport Card cost?

Adults age 16 and older applying for the first-time will pay to the RFID chip.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

7

Florida Legislators have Cooked the Books During Redistricting because the fundamental issue is the legislators broke the law.

By Roger Caldwell

hen I was in college my professor always talked about gerrymandering. I thought it was against the law, and if a legislator was caught, they would go to jail. But, I am learning in the Tallahassee courtroom that gerrymandering is standard practice around the country, and Florida legislators are practicing standard operating procedures.

There is a new law in Florida called the Fair Districts Amendment, and districts should be drawn up that does not favor a party.

They are supposed to follow geographical boundaries when possible, but it only looks good on paper.

After two years of waiting and charging the Republicans of gerrymandering, the Democrats, the League of Women Voters, and other progressive groups are finally getting their day in court. The plaintiffs are extremely upset over four districts in Central Florida, but gerrymandering happened over the entire state. There are even certain Democrats, in the state whose districts did not make logical sense, but they were still cut up so a Democrat can win.

The trial centers around the new 2012 created congressional map, Circuit Judge Terry Lewis must decide if the maps were drawn legally. The plaintiffs’ case is funded by the National Democratic Redistricting Trust, and the Republicans control 17 seats and the Democrats control 10 seats. Redistricting occurs every 10 years, and even though the Fair District Amendment was passed, the party in power has the biggest advantage.

We would like to think that this is a fair game, but politics is a

“Anyone with one good eye could already see they (the legislators) had pulled off a scam.” dirty business, and incumbents want to stay in office. “Anyone with one good eye could already see they (the legislators) had pulled off a scam. Instead of sensible districts that follow geographic boundaries and keep communities intact, legislators drew snake-like districts that slither through as many as eight counties,” explains Scott Maxwell.

“Some of the districts, which legislators had claimed were drawn and submitted by an average citizen, appear to have actually been created by a GOP operative and submitted under a phony name. One political scientist testified that it would have been “virtually Impossible” for legislators to have drawn the warped districts they did without intentional political bias. Another expert who has studied gerrymandered districts all over Legislators want safe districts and if they can get voted back in America, called Florida districts the most biased he had ever office with no work the better for them. There were deals being made behind closed doors in the dark, and the trial is bringing seen,” says Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel. the truth to the light.

We could argue that Mr. Maxwell is upset and he is exaggerating, but the witnesses, evidence, and testimony support his con- The final decision will be made by the judge, and the residents tention. The legislators knew they were violating the Fair Dis- are waiting to see if there is justice in Florida. The right decitrict Amendment, and they didn’t care. The back and forth over sion is to start again, but there is an election in five months, secret redistricting documents are smoke screens and mirrors, and who is willing to spoil the well cooked apple pie.

Specializing in West Indian And Chinese Dishes

(407) 291-2047 7371 W. Colonial Dr. (Dr. Martin Luther King Dr.) Orlando, FL 32808

6100 Old Winter Garden Road • Orlando, FL 32835 Guyana, Trinidad & American Hand-made Jewelry!!

GOLD!!!

REPAIRS WHILE YOU WAIT WE BUY SCRAP JEWELRY All Your Scrap Gold Redesigned!!

Latest CD’s, DVD’s & West Indian Music Cricket Gear Available

Hours:

Monday - Thursday Friday - Saturday Sunday

11 am – 10 pm 11 am - 2 am 11 pm – 12 Midnight

WE ACCEPT

8

& Sari House

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

POOJA CENTER Wedding & Janew Accessories Shalwar, Lehengas, Kurtas Children’s Clothing PUJA ITEMS & MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

LARGEST SELECTION OF MARBLE MURTIS

407-291-6900

Property Appraiser Rick Singh Receives Immigrant Achievement Award range County Property Appraiser Rick Singh was honored last week with the Immigrant Achievement Award by the American Immigration Lawyers Association of Central Florida (AILA-CFC) during its annual Awards Dinner at the Tampa Club in Tampa.

The organization’s Central Florida Chapter held the event to recognize the contributions of members, the regional pro bono legal services organizations and the achievements of three immigrants from across the state.

Mr. Singh was the awardee for the Orlando region.

“I am proud to have nominated Rick Singh because he embodies the true spirit of those immigrants who come to America, work hard and make amazing contributions to our society,” said Gail S. Seeram, an attorney and former President of AILA-CFC. “Rick has an amazing immigrant story, and I’m glad he is willing to share that story to inspire people from all walks of life.”

Mr. Singh, of Asian Indian ancestry, was born in Guyana. When he was 10, his father died; and he, his siblings and his mother came to America with only $38 to the family’s name. He attended high school in the Bronx, graduated with Honors and served in the U.S. Army. After his honorable discharge, he began several business ventures. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to begin his own real estate company and his own appraisal firm where he hired, trained and managed dozens of brokers and appraisers. In 2012, Rick Singh was elected to serve as the Property Appraiser for Orange County.

As an active community member, Mr. Singh holds membership and serves on the boards of several organizations, including the American Lung Association and SHARES International of the Florida Hospital Foundation.

Price $29.95 US Ramnaraine Sambhudat

407-218-0867

Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator Immigration, Family, Wills & Trusts, Mediation 1073 Willa Springs Drive, Suite 1017 Winter Springs. Florida 32708 esquirebrown@nadinebrownpa,com www.nadinebrownpa.com

407-678-2224 Fax: 407-788-2225

Find Caribbean Restaurants, Plumbers, Events,

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

9

Letters to My Lawyer™ Please submit your letters to letters@hawmlaw.com. Each month a reader’s selection will be chosen for response

By Karlyn Hylton

Dear Lawyer:

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/publisher. This column should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney. This column is not published for advertising or solicitation purposes. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

I’m considering talking to my spouse about getting a divorce and just want some general information on what to do. Letters to My Lawyer™ is a publication of Karlyn Hylton Please help. & Sasha Watson of Hylton, Adamson Watson, PLLC 120 E. Colonial Drive |Orlando, FL 32801 Sincerely, Phone: 407-802-3223 | F: 407-377-1971 Considering Divorce Email: letters@hawmlaw.com Dear Considering Divorce: If you have been thinking about telling your spouse that you want a divorce, we know there are probably twenty million emotions going through your mind at this very moment. Here are a few things for you to think about before having this discussion.

Consider talking to a professional such as a marriage counselor.

Marital issues are complex and you really need to find a solid way to cope. While counseling may not save a marriage, it can at least help a person move on to the next steps with a clear mind.

If you have decided that divorce is the next step, contact an attorney to get some legal advice. You may want to even contact one before you have spoken to your spouse. It’s imperative that you know all of your options and rights under divorce law. What you say now, could very well influence the outcome of a divorce.

Do stay in your place of residence until you get legal advice. If you are in a volatile situation, that is of course a different story and you must protect yourself and any children that may be involved. Under other circumstances, understand that leaving the house could affect your ability to either get or pay alimony. Do take the necessary steps to protect your assets before a divorce is finalized.

This includes making sure you possess the items (large and small) you wish to have, such as a family car.

This is by no means a complete and final list of all the things you should do during a separation or before a divorce is finalized. This is, however, a good place to start.

Feel free to contact us today for more information.

Regards, Karlyn Hylton, Esq. HAWM, PLLC

10

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

We’ve Moved

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

11

An American icon with deep Trini roots Continued from pg 1

She made African-Americans honour their Africanness and she made America understand why these traditions were worth celebrating. For people of colour all over the world, she came like an answer to a prayer. “West Indians and African-Americans are more alike than we are different. Culturally, we also share the same experience; the way we use music, literature and lyrics; and that feeling for family is very tight in African-American and Caribbean communities.” Her voice is powerful and overpowering; same as the day I met her 13 years ago, at the National Arts Club in historic Gramercy Park, on Manhattan’s East Side; she was receiving its highest honour.

“We both love telling these long tales with no documents to back them up,” she laughs.

Her laugh is one of the most recognised in America; full of all kinds of emotions, all sorts of stories and experiences, journeys and joys, tribulations and triumphs. “The

didn’t suffer fools gladly. He didn’t believe in whipping his children. He spoke so severely that they would weep. He could scold you that severely.” She has little memory of him. “I met him but most of what I know is through what my uncles and mother said.

I learned a lot about Trinidad’s culture from my mom. The food and the recipes. I learned to cook the codfish, the ochroes, and the greens. And my best friend, the famous writer Paule Marshall, is also West Indian.”

She’s a storyteller like no other; so good at it, that 40 years ago she inspired a new genre of American literature. Her autobiographical work is celebrated as the advent of a revolutionary literary tradition of Black Women Writers. Her poetry is some of the most recited in the world, and her inspirational sayings are probably some of the most emailed, in the world.

She told women all over that we were phenomenal, as she took the ordinary details of

Maya Angelou in 1969. black man in the Caribbean and in America has had to fight, every step of the way, for his own dignity, and sometimes, he thinks the black woman is his enemy. But we are not his enemy,” she adds. “We were sold together and bought together. We were on the auction block together.”

Angelou and Gloria Steinem commemorate the twentieth anniversary of the March on Washington, on August 27, 1983. womanhood and made them extraordinary. “We still have these men to deal with,” she laughs. “We have to be strong and at the same time we have to be tactful. We want our children to have fathers and we want the fathers to be kind and responsible.” Her words are a stockpile of hope.

Angelou and President Obama after she received the 2010 Her voice is full of magic and Medal of Freedom in the East Room of the White House. music. There’s a rhythm to her reasoning. She has lived the blues and in 82 short years, her life has hit all the highs and lows of jazz. Iambic and insightful, every It took four books to tell her life story. I Know Why The Caged Bird word she speaks tells a story, independent of the sentence it be- Sings captured her early life, from three to 16. The first 10 years longs to; her voice is also full of calypso. “My mother’s father jumped were in Arkansas with her father’s mother and the last three were off a ship, in Florida, at the spent between Los Angeles turn of the twentieth cenand San Francisco, with her tury,” she says. “But then, he mother. It was a life of diswent back to Trinidad, got placement, humiliation, his father and then they loss and rape, at eight, at the both jumped ship in hands of her mother’s boyTampa.” Her laughter is friend. She described her deep like the river Jordan. pain as “an unnecessary inMuch of what she knows sult” and “the rust of the about her great-grandfather razor that threatens the and her grandfather is famthroat.” Living in fear of the ily lore; stories she heard as Ku Klux Klan made her life a child. “My great-grandfain the South an abominather stayed in Florida and tion against God and man. became a cigar roller.”

She punished herself with a self-imposed silence when Her grandfather travelled the rapist was killed in an north. “He became a porter, in St Louis, on the railroad, married act of revenge. It took many years before she would speak again. and had a pile of kids; six: four boys and two girls.” He died in the early 1930s, when she was very young. “My grandfather had a Her voice is solemn. “I would encourage adults to not blame the mantra,” she laughs. “He was a big man, mighty, and he would child. The child is the victim. And don’t allow the child to blame tell his sons, if you get in a fight and go to jail, I will sell the house her or himself. Try to love that child. Tell her or tell him that they to get you out. But if you go to jail for stealing, I’m leaving you are clean and it had to nothing to do with them; that they are the there. My grandfather was a tough man but he was a fair man. He — Continued on page 18 —

“My mother’s father jumped off a ship, in Florida, at the turn of the twentieth century,” she says. “But then, he went back to Trinidad, got his father and then they both jumped ship in Tampa.”

12

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Life Worth Living Wellness Center

• • • •

Compounded Prescriptions Home Infusion Therapy Retail Prescriptions Weight Loss/Nutritional Coaching

• • • •

Diabetes Shoppe Fitness Center on Site Natural Vitamins Health Screening Events

• • • •

Competitive Pricing Medicare/Medicaid Accepted Most Insurances Accepted Delivery of your Medication

6488 Currin Dr., Suite 100 • Orlando, FL • 32835 407-522-5685 • Fax: 407.472.3995 www.lwlpharmacy.com

Be Smart. Get a FREE CONSULTATION with one of our expert trainers to assess your health needs and fitness goals. Additionally, this includes your choice of a Free Medical Review, Fitness Studio Day Pass or Free Personal Training Session.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

13

ay 25th 2014 was the Orlando Carnival cultural showcase at the Central Florida Fairgrounds. The Orlando Carnival is presented by the Orlando Carnival Cultural Association (OCCA) and supported by the community.

This year OCCA was forced to relocate their Carnival celebrations to the Central Florida Fairgrounds because of the construction taking place at the Citrus Bowl. Originally the Orlando Carnival was held at the Central Florida Fairgrounds but because of the growth and expansion associated with the support of the Orlando Carnival it was relocated to Festival Field located next to the Citrus Bowl. However, this year it appeared to a celebration of coming home.....’Home Sweet Home’, back at the Fairgrounds; the community support and attendance seemed to surpass the past few Carnival’s held in Orlando; thousands of carnival supporters, masqueraders and Caribbean

14

cultural enthusiasts came out to enjoy the parade of costumes, the music and the cultural extravaganza.

Many of the attendees were asked how they felt about this year’s Carnival and if they felt there was a difference between this year and the last few years; the responses varied; about 34% said they liked the fact that it was back in their community (meaning the Fairgrounds), about 39% said it was the cultural performers and other 27% said they just always come out to Carnival regardless of where or who’s performing.

Orlando Carnival 2014 was a successful presentation of culture, music, diversity and Caribbean unity as can be seen from crowd shots with the many different National flags and colors being waived and showcased. Orlando Carnival 2015 will be held on Sunday May 24th 2015 - mark your calendars.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Caribbean American Heritage Month Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at City Hall —Continued from page 1—

he Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida in collaboration with the Heads of Caribbean Organizations and the Caribbean American Passport Foundation coordinated the official Caribbean American Heritage Month - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on June 1st at the City of Orlando City Hall.

This year’s Ribbon Cutting ceremony saw a record number of Caribbean organizations in participation and was attended by a diverse array of local citizens including the Consular General of Haiti, Laurent Prosper, the Consular General of St Vincent & the Grenadines Judge Alban Niles, elected officials, local political candidates and members

This year’s Ribbon Cutting ceremony saw a record number of Caribbean organizations in participation of the various Caribbean associations and chambers. Special messages were presented by Commissioner Tiffany Moore-Russell and Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh and the proclamation form the Mayor of Orlando, Mayor Buddy Dyer, was presented and read by Mr. Reginald McGill, Director of Constituent Services. Special awards were presented to Mr. Terry Olson, Director of Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs Department and also to Mr. Reginald McGill. The awards were presented to Mr. Olson and Mr. McGill for their long term support and belief in the preservation and promotion of the cultural diversity of the Caribbean American community in Central Florida.

Left to right Sam Roberts, Chairperson of the Heads of Caribbean Organizations, Reginald McGill, Director of Constituent Services - City of Orlando, Guenet Roberts, President of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce, Terry Olson, Director of Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs Department, Donna Morton, Secretary of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Homida Rajack, Vice President of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce

Photography by Michelle Allman

Kaye Chung from Caribbean Airlines flanked by members of the Orlando Carnival Cultural Association

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 capnewsmagazine @yahoo.com Let GGR Marketing & PR plan your Event! www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

15

Miami-Broward One Carnival and the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine sign 3-year agreement n May 28th, 2014 the Miami-Broward One Carnival, Inc. and the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine signed a 3-year agreement, in which the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine will provide marketing and promotion service for the Miami-Broward One Carnival (MBOC), which is the largest Caribbean cultural event presented in the State of Florida.

impact that we as Caribbean people are providing in the State of Florida” said owner/CFO Sam Roberts of Roberts & Roberts Management Ser vices, owner of the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine.

Miami-Broward One Carnival will be held on Sunday October 12th at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds located at 10901 SW 24th Street, Miami FL 33165 - After careful consideration and collaborative consultation with participating mas bands and Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee (MBOCHC).

This marketing and promotional agreement was entered into The 30th Anniversary of Miami Broward Carnival will be the because of the great reach and community impact provided Miami -Dade County Fairgrounds (www.thefair.me). Located by the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine over the less than 20 minutes off the Turnpike from West Miramar next last 4 years. Data from the analytical report, ‘Profile to Florida International University South. of Attendees Miami Broward Carnival 2013’, prepared by the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau indicates We look forward to sharing additional information with that approximately 50% of the non-South Florida based at- the community and key stakeholders in the next few weeks tendees at the 2013 MBOC came from the Orlando/Central upon confirming logistic particulars about the parade route Florida community. and production plans. We appreciate your patience and continued support.

“First and foremost, let me thank you in writing for a job well done in covering Miami Broward Carnival 2013. “The Miami Broward Carnival is made possible with the supYour carnival coverage including pictur es, opinion and port of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affront page articles impressed me and many of our Board fairs, and the Cultural Affairs Council, Council, the Miami members, my friends and family. Your journalistic contri- Dade-County Mayor and Board Of County Commissioners bution to the success of our Carnival did not go unnoticed. .” stated MBOC Board Member Yvette N. Harris.

Thank you, thank you, thank you” these were the words of MBOC Board Member and Chairperson of Marketing and “We are extremely excited about the opportunity to present Sponsorship - John Beckford. “We are committed to show- and showcase the magnitude and impact of our culture on the casing the cultural diversity of the Caribbean American community” said Guenet Roberts Co-Editor of the Caribbean community and the positive cultural, social and economic American Passport News Magazine.

Get Early Bird discounted rates for your Corporate, Business or Food Booth if you reserve and pay for your booth by June 30th . . . over 25,000 people in attendance!!!

16

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Message from the Consulate of the Republic of Haiti he Consulate of the Republic of Haiti would like to thank the community of Central Florida for attending the 211th Anniversary of the creation of our Flag on May 18, 2014.

It was a wonderful success with a turn out of over three thousand people who came to enjoy a day of cultural and family oriented activities.

We could not have done it without the help of our local partners and our talented artistes who actively participated in making this day a memorable one.

As we look forward to future endeavors with you, the Consulate of the Republic of Haiti avails itself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of its consideration.

Consulate General of Haiti, CG Laurent Prosper 1616 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando FL 32803 On left: Orley Burey, candidate for Ninth Circuit Court Judge with Michelle Allman of OCCA and Campaign Manager Karen Green

On right: Sam Roberts Owner of the CAP News Magazine with Consul General of Haiti, Laurent Prosper

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

17

Caribbean Profile, Continued from pg 12

victims and it was nothing that they did.” She endured one of the most brutal coming-of age stories, followed by an unwanted pregnancy, at 16, when her only child, a son, Guy, was born. A teen mom, broke and bored, she shared her life with pimps and prostitutes. In Gather Together In My Name, she wrote of the dehumanising experiences. She worked as a short-order cook, moonlighted as a prostitute, did double-duty as a madam in charge of her own prostitutes, and fell in love with a drug addict. She was on the brink of destruction; “like a tree on a river responding to the winds and the tides”.

“He and I didn’t get on. He was quite rude to me in Algeria because of something he thought I said about his then wife. So he embarrassed me in public,” she says. “I agreed with him politically but socially I require courtesy. So I disagreed with him on that.” She hastened to add that he leaned over her chair and whispered, “I’ll talk to you back at the hotel.” In her laughter, it was obvious she considered it an apology. When she moved back to America, she took root in Harlem, married an abusive freedom fighter but found the courage to leave him. She met Billie Holiday and heard Dr

For people of colour all over the world, she came like an answer to a prayer.

She eventually rescued herself from spiritual waste and the oppression of underclass living and began Singin’ and Swingin’ and Gettin’ Merry like Christmas. She had picked up the pieces and put them all together. From down in the dumps, she had pulled herself up.

She was signing calypso and dancing. She appeared in the legendary African-American musical Porgy & Bess; an amazing accomplishment. In her late twenties, she did the unthinkable — married a white man — and took off to Egypt. Her Pan-African awakening, The Heart of a Woman, is liberating and lifetransforming. In Ghana, she met Kwame Nkrumah, became good friends with Malcolm X and also with Oliver Tambo, leader of the African National Congress. She worked as a journalist for the Arab Observer and joined the African Liberation Movement.

She also met Stokley Carmichael, a Trinidadian, who would become Kwame Ture, a stalwart of the Black Power Movement.

Martin Luther King speak. She was inspired to achieve the unimaginable. But she never knew she would speak at the funeral of his wife Coretta Scott King.

She stood proud, at the inauguration of President William Jefferson Clinton, and held the morning by its pulse, telling all of America to look into each other’s eyes and simply say ‘Good Morning’.

Majestic, in height and heart, the world watched a legend and wondered how this girl named Marguerite, who didn’t speak for years, became one of the greatest voices ever heard. “I really can’t say which one of my poems brings me the greatest joy. Evaluating my poetry is like evaluating your children.” She has written collections and sold millions of copies. Her cookbook was also a bestseller. Her life was made into a movie; she has acted and directed. She has mentored generations of American scholarship and talent. Black and White America look up to her.

Early, in the last presidential campaign, she had thrown her support behind her close friend Hillary Clinton for whom she has “profound affection”. But she realised “something great” was happening in America; changed her mind and endorsed Senator Barack Obama whose sister, she later found out, was named after her. “Hillary made it to the glass ceiling and she has left 18 million scratches on the glass ceiling,” she said, in Greensboro, North Carolina, at a Women for Obama rally.

“But we need someone to break that ceiling down and that’s Barack Obama,” she affirmed as she welcomed Michelle Obama to the podium. The day after he won, she was so overwhelmed, she cried, on national television. She said America was “growing up and beyond” it’s idiocy and ignorance.

She’s considered the great master of words. She never attended college but holds several honorary degrees. She has always said it is “imperative that we learn humility” and exercise “an attitude of gratitude” for all those who have paved the way before us. Our conversation is coming to a close. She has much to attend to in Winston, Salem where she lives. “Right now, I’m working on being very good, like a good Christian, or like a good Muslim, it is hard, it is serious, it is so serious. I’m 82, so I’m really working on being good.” And finally, I ask her, what has been her greatest life experience. “Talking to you,” she says. “Yes, talking to you; you may be the last person I speak to because life is like that.

I don’t compare what I did with what I’m yet to do.”

18

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

In-State Tuition, House Bill (HB) 851 Basic Information urrently, in the state of Florida, in order to establish residency, a student must be a “U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, and an alien lawfully present in the United States who are in an eligible Visa category may be classified as a Florida resident for tuition purposes if the applicant or the dependent applicant’s parent/legal guardian has established legal residence in the State for at least 12 consecutive months immediately prior to the first day of classes of the term for which Florida residency is sought.” (Guidelines on Florida Residency for Tuition Purposes, 2012) On Friday, May 2, 2014, the Florida Legislature passed House Bill (HB851), which establishes additional residency requirements by which a student may be eligible for in-state tuition. Under HB851, a state university, colleges, career centers operated by a school district, and a charter technical career center may waive out-of-state fees to undocumented students.

In order for an undocumented student to establish residency, they must meet the following requirements: 1. Attended a secondary school in this state for 3 consecutive years immediately before graduating from a high school in this state; 2. Apply for enrollment in an institution of higher education within 24 months after high school graduation; and 3. Submit an official Florida high school transcript as evidence of attendance and graduation.

Throughout the session, Governor Rick Scott has spoken very publicly around his support for HB851. From the moment the bill hits his desk, the Governor has fifteen (15) days to act, and Florida’s students and families are counting on him to sign it.

Once the bill becomes law, the State Board of Education and the Florida Board of Governors will update the Florida residency requirements for tuition purposes. The effective date of the legislation is July 1, 2014.

In the state of Florida, there are two systems under which public colleges and universities operate. The State University System of Florida is comprised of twelve (12) public universities. The Florida College System is comprised of twenty-eight (28) public community colleges and state colleges.

ENGLISH and KREYOL: For more information, contact: Francesca Menes, Policy and Advocacy Coordinator, Florida Immigrant Coalition, francesca@floridaimmigrant.org

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

19

T

he Orlando Kiddies Carnival is slated to be the kick off event of the Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival. “After 3 wonderful years, we have outgrown the park in Ocoee and we are now ready for a bigger venue. June is Caribbean American Heritage Month, so we are so thrilled to announce that the 2014 Orlando Kiddies Carnival will be at beautiful Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando on Sunday June 22nd at 12pm.” Said Kiddies Carnival Organizer Creig Camacho in a recent interview.

The kids will parade up Rosalind Avenue and then “jump up” across the giant amphitheater stage to the sounds of sweet soca music. This will be followed by interactive games for the kids and parents and then they can burn off the extra energy in the Kids’ Zone with bouncy houses, etc.

The Kiddies Carnival will be immediately followed by the Caribbean American Heritage Month (CAHM) Festival which is free to the public.

The 2014 Orlando Kiddies Carnival and CAHM Festival will include a spectacular feast of Caribbean food, drink, dance and live musical performances presented by various Caribbean cultural groups.

There will be Caribbean Food and drinks on sale all day and even a beer garden with ice cold Caribbean Beers (for the grown-ups of course). There will also be ample parking around Lake Eola and in the nearby parking garages. It promises to be a day of fun for the entire family.

For more information (or to “Play Mas,” as we say in the Caribbean), please visit and like their facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/orlandokiddiescarnival. You will be able to see pictures of the costumes for this year, as well as lots of pictures from previous years. You can also visit their website at www.orlandokiddiescarnival.com or call 407-788-2326.

Parents are encouraged to sign up children sponsor costumes for those who would like to play this year. The Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival guide is available online at www.cahmfestival.com.

20

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

United Foundation sets its sights on duplicating the Tangelo Park Program in a Section of Pine Hills, Orlando nited Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., (UFCF) a non-profit public foundation focused on early intervention, leading to prevention, announced plans to duplicate the successful Harris Rosen Tangelo Park Program in a section of Pine Hills. UFCF’s Board of Directors answered the communities concerns to provide proven solutions, by researching programs that work to clean up communities. The Tangelo Park Program is one of the most successful to date. It was a natural choice for the foundation, with a mission to partner with existing programs to positively transform communities through early intervention and education. The results of the Tangelo Park Program left Tangelo Park residents with job creation (a decrease in unemployment), a graduation rate increase from 20% to 100%, crime reduction and increase in family unity.

tacular Red Carpet Evening under the Stars Fundraising GALA at the Elegant Rosen Plaza Hotel on Saturday, July 26th 2014, from 7pm to 2am. Cocktail and Silent Auction is from 7pm – 8pm. Our MC for the evening is Vanessa Echols of WFTV Channel 9 News. There will be lots of local and international entertainment, showcasing the diversity in the communities we serve. Our Musical entertainment for the evening will be provided by DJ Phayz of Vibrant Soundz and the 506 Crew Band. The Attire is Formal. Donation is $100.00.

Ticket Sales ends at midnight on July 19th 2014. We would like to thank our Sponsors – Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill, Taste of Jamaica Restaurant, Caribbean Sunshine Bakery, The Golding Law Group, PLC., Caribbean Super Center, Caribbean American Passport News Magazine, Soiree Event and Conference Center, PS Freight and Shipping Services, Vibrant Soundz Entertainment, Tax Preparer - Winston Moxey, Full-A-Vybez, Inc., WOKB 1680AM, Island Beat With the foundation’s focus on Early Intervention, it’s impor- – 1220AM and The Rosen Plaza Hotel. tant that as a community we understand that the quality of your child’s life during the first five years will set the stage for Now that you’ve heard this insightful information, continue future learning and success. Ninety percent of a child’s brain to be an advocate for early intervention and education in your is developed before the age of 5. Within those early years it’s communities by getting involved (sign up to be a volunteer), important that our children get the same educational oppor- participate in local events that support early intervention, and tunities across the country. Statistics provided by the Florida encourage your co-workers and friends to do the same.

Department of Education show that one third of Orange County children are unprepared for kinder garden. In 2012, one in six For more information on how to get involved, be a sponsor, Orange County public elementary schools started with 50 per- donate and or purchase tickets, please contact Dennis Hall at cent of the kinder garden identified as “not ready.” One of the 407-929-7477, Gordon Russell at 407-701-3479, Shirley Edwards most important decisions you will ever make as a parent, is at 407-497-4197, David Mullings at 954-683-8326, Zanya Lewis at 407-244-6523, Judeen Parkes at 407-437-8776, Alex Lewis choosing quality child care for your child. at 352-460-3624 or Sandra Fatmi at 770-789-7004. You can To support this initiative - We invite you to attend our Spec- also log on to www.unitedfoundationcf.org.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

21

Top 5 Video Picks 1. Artist: Young Voice Title: “BASS”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: Young Voice dropped his first Soca single entitled “Jumper Cable” which is now gaining momentum in the U.S. and the Caribbean. “Bass” is definitely a banger for the summer time. Bass is produced by Ahtik Studios and written by Kevin “Young Voice” James.

Watch out for this artist he will be making headlines in near future.

2. Artist: Skinny Banton Title: “Soak it good”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: “when jab jab cooking saltfish we does soak it good”. Representing hard for Grenada comes Mr. Skinny Banton. Skinny Banton is no stranger to the soca scene, “soak it good” is carnival-esque chune with an infectious beat. This video was featured on Jungle Vibes Television in April 2014. The video production is credited to Youngstarzstudio / 1ne Take Productions. JVTV will wait to see how diverse this artist will be in the next round. Keep an eye out.

3. Artist: Major Lazer featuring Sean Paul Title: “Come on to me”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: It comes as no surprise for Major Lazer to be featured on the JV Top 5 again this month. These guys do not sleep, before you know it another hit is created which sends them on international tours for months at a time. It must be nice. This time the trio teamed up with Mr. Dutty Cup for their latest collaboration for “Come on to me”. Director Ruben Fleischer and Whitehouse Post directed this video. You can never go wrong with Major Lazer and/or Sean Paul.

4. Artist: Jo Jo Title: “Shake Dat”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: Jo Jo, whose real name is Joanne Hutton began her musical journey by providing background vocals for a number of artists throughout the years.

Her first breakthrough single produced by Martian Music is the high energy track entitled “Shake Dat written by Don Iko, Nadia Batson and Jo Jo. JVTV will keep the ear open for her follow-up single or possibly an album release.

5. Artist: Skrillex featuring Ragga Twins Title: “Ragga Bomb”

Video Link: www.junglevibes.tv (Top 5 Video Picks) JVTV Review: For those new to the dubstep/trap/jungle scene, this track may go a little too hard for your taste buds. World DJ Skrillex teamed up with the UK Junglists, Ragga Twins who is currently touring the European Union on the mothership tour. The production company, Egg Films did a good job of creating a grimy atmosphere for this track. To familiarize yourself about Ragga Twins check them out at www.raggatwins.com.

Watch the only Caribbean Music Television show in Central Florida every Sunday at 4:00pm on Brighthouse Networks Channel 49.

Advertise your business and increase visibility and revenue!

For more information, call Rali at 407-340-2218.

22

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

23

Miss Intercontinental USVI 2014 Islands community from the Miss Virgin Islands Scholarship Organization.

Taiesa’s most recent contributions are working as a television personality for the 2014 VI Carnival Children’s and Adults Parade CBS-TV2 broadcast and hosting a 2-day “Girl Talk” workshop at the Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School this past April. Taiesa is a graduate of the Johnson

n May 1st, 2014 Taiesa Lashley, the representative for the United States Virgin Islands in the 2014 Miss Intercontinental competition was crowned Miss US Paradise Intercontinental 2014.

Taiesa is proud a veteran in the United States Army Reserve. She completed a combat tour in support of Operation En-

during Freedom in Afghanistan in 2011 with the 478th Civil Affairs Battalion.

Taiesa has the distinct honor of being the first veteran to compete in pageants internationally. Taiesa is also is a very talented vocalist. While competing in the 2012 Miss World competition Taiesa’s vocal performance earned her a top 16 position in the talent segment out of 116 competitors. Taiesa’s dedication to service and education is visible through her work with many local organizations and her sorority Delta Sigma Theta Inc. In 2011, she was awarded a 1,000 scholarship for her contributions to the Virgin

24

and Wales University, currently holding a Bachelor of Science Degree in Hospitality Management and an Associate of Science degree in Travel and Tourism. Taiesa has successfully established a career as a Catering Guest Service Manager at Walt Disney World. Since establishing her career at Walt Disney World, Taiesa has been featured in the 2014 May’s edition of G.I. Jobs Magazine and spoke as a panelist at Walt Disney World’s Veteran’s Institute where she had the honor of meeting the First Lady of the United State of America – Mrs. Michelle Obama.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

the bonds that hold together the most diverse Nation on earth.”

— Barack Obama, President, United States of America

“This is the first time a port in Trinidad and Tobago has been included on a Mediterranean Shipping Company Cruises (MSC) itinerary and we consider this a momentous occasion for the destination.”

— Yolande Selman, Acting CEO, Tourism Development Company Limited (TDC)

“Usain Bolt is a global legend from the Caribbean who continues to make history and to make us proud. We are thrilled to have his training spikes from the 2013 World Championship Games as a part of the CTO’s Caribbean Week auction.”

— Sylma Brown, Director, Caribbean Tourism Organization - USA, Inc.

“I want to emphasize, at this point, that we are in no way engaged in unrealistic, pie-inthe-sky, wishful thinking on the score of fiscal redress. With a keen eye on the state of our economy and mindful of the need to maintain “It is not so much the dropping of a player, but and support its upward, forward momentum, the callous manner in which they are on occawe are embarked on a mutually-reinforcing sion dispatched from the team. Darren Sammy plan of national development and fiscal conYolande Selman may not have been one of the greatest cricketers solidation that is balanced and measured. As such, our aim is set on gradual, though assured, progress on to play for the West Indies, but he was a great leader and team player, always giving of his best and that is 100% at all times.” the fiscal front.”

— Wayne Cadogan, Writer (Caribbean360) — Perry Christie, Prime Minister, The Bahamas (Caribbean Journal) “Some people want to make music to be famous, and that’s “Most people in Barbados are affected some way by tourism totally OK. I just want to help people with my music. I want to because nearly everyone has a job that is tourism related. If lift them up and make them feel better about things.”

— Molly Kate Kestner, Teenage Singer (Austin Daily Herald) you work at the airport, that is related to tourism; if you work at the Bridgetown Port, that is related to tourism. Persons who sell vegetables also sell to hotels and restaurants - so that is a Quotable Caribbean” is compiled by Marketplace tourism related business as well. If you sell chickens, if you are Excellence Corporation. a fisherman; no matter what you do in Barbados, it has some relationship to tourism and we want you to understand that from a very early age.”

— Alvin Jemmott, General Manager, Divi Southwinds (Barbados Advocate) “As America celebrates our Caribbean heritage, let us hold fast to the spirit that makes our country a beacon to the world. This month, let us remember that we are always at our best when we focus not on what we can tear down, but on what we can build up. And together, let us strengthen

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

25

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?”

Janet Autherine Mahon, Judge/Author “GROWING INTO GREATNESS WITH GOD” he book, ‘Growing into Greatness with God’, was born from those early bible study groups that Janet attended as a child in St. Thomas, Jamaica. The church was called Hampton Court Seventh Day church and it was the place of safety for her. She made some of her best childhood friends, picked cherries from the tree, listened to sermons that inspired her young soul - she loved to sing and recite poetry in the church, yes the church in good ole’ St. Thomas, Jamaica. You could accompany Janet’s memory with a fine violin as she reflects on the stories of young David (the boy who defeated the Giant), Daniel (a man who stood without fear among lions), Solomon (the wise judge) and Ruth (the loyal friend), and other biblical champions – these made life very special for a young Janet.

“We were too poor to afford the latest toys and there was no television in our home so these characters became my heroes. We were poor but it didn’t define our lives; we were rich in love, faith and community, and we had big dreams.” – Janet As I was prepping on how to present this leading lady; I somehow drifted back to St. Thomas Jamaica and thus it seemed almost suspect to break the flow; this time Janet share that in my book the words of wisdom that accompany the stories are inspired by all the advice given to me by my mother, grandmothers, aunts, uncles, cousins and all the “old souls” that entered my early life. I grew up in a house where family, faith, good food and hard work were celebrated and during a time when it wasn’t unusual for an 11 year old to walk 1/2 mile to fetch water before school, walk home, get ready for school, walk at least 1/2 mile to school, be respectful and attentive, participate in field day, take the long walk home with friends (not forgetting to stop and say hello to all the neighbors), pick fruit or dig yams for dinner, complete homework assignments, and end the day by having dinner and fellowship with family. That was my daily life growing up in Jamaica. I didn’t fully appreciate it back then.

option for me; it was a requirement. I always knew that I was going and when my older brother, Mark encouraged me to attend Penn State University, I jumped at the chance to follow in his footsteps. I connected with the Caribbean Student’s Association, joined a vibrant church and happily settled into life in Happy Valley. It was there that I discovered that, at heart, I was a peacemaker. I ditched my Business major and chose Labor and Industrial Relations - I wanted t o help people solve problems.

Why would an introvert go to law school? Those who knew me well were puzzled because they had Janet Autherine Mahon visions of the typical loquacious courtroom lawyers from all the popular television shows. That was not my path; I wanted a job where I could be quiet, competent and effective. Boston College Law School, a wonderful Jesuit institution gave me the tools that I needed to find the voice that I didn’t really realize that I had lost. I gravitated towards small classes with grades based on writing assignments. In a small-group class, I turned in a paper that I was really proud of; the professor commented that it was excellent but it was not in my voice. I hadn’t spoken much in class so my voice was really a mystery.

That is when I learned that it wasn’t enough to let my writing speak for me; I had to let my voice be heard in all areas of my life.

Regardless of your circumstances, you can become all that God has ordained for your life.

In 1982, I moved to Philadelphia to live with my mother and my brothers. I had to adjust to a new country, a new household and the typical middle school anxieties. I was a shy, introverted child and I struggled to find my voice; it didn’t help that my voice had a very strong Jamaican accent. For many years, I didn’t speak up as much as I needed to - I feared saying the wrong words and getting into trouble; I feared be teased because of my accent; I wasn’t familiar with the sound of my own voice. Fortunately, my upbringing gave me a quiet confidence. I was a good writer, a good student and I had a small group of good friends.

About 8 years into my legal career, I was blessed to be appointed as an Administrative Law Judge for the District of Columbia government. It was the dream job that allowed me to hear cases, issue decisions, and participate in mediating disputes. My voice was heard in the courtroom and in written decisions but in a manner that would make any introvert happy. When you find that thing that you are passionate about, it frees you up to live a well-rounded life. I now spend my time raising my three boys, writing and reading inspirational books, participating in religious and community life and running as often as I can.

Growing into Greatness with God is about finding the unique talent that God has blessed you with, nourishing that skill and using it to be of service. My journey began in a small town in Jamaica and is being realized in the United States. Regardless of your circumstances, you can become all that God has ordained for your life.

I went to Murrell Dobbins High School, a vocational high school and followed the business track. With my typing and short- If you would like to obtain a copy of Janet’s book or learn more hand skills, I was prepared to be the best administrative support about this leading lady, visit www.janetautherine.com or connect staff in Philadelphia. That was my plan B. College was not an with www.girlwhatdoyoubringtothetable.com

26

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Greater Orlando CARES Mentoring Movement

DOWNTOWN

ORLANDO

Kiddies Carnival will be a part of the CAHM Festival.

For more information call 407-234-4688. www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

27

MICHAEL A. MILLS, LLC YOUR INJURY ASSISTANCE LAW FIRM

We are here for you!

823 N. Thornton Avenue • Orlando, Florida 32803 20 3rd Street SW, Suite 302 • Winter Haven, Florida 33880 Office 321-234-2900 • Fax 866-941-5780 Call 1-800-8-INJURY from the Accident Scene www.injuryassistance.org 28

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com