Sept2015

ONE LOVE Free Publication

Volume 8 Issue 9

SEPTEMBER 2015 Since AUGUST 2008

ARIBBEAN

COMMUNITY • CULTURE • CONNECTIONS

COMMUNITY

Carroll Robinson Vies for City Controller Post - Page 4

CARIBBEAN

Dominica is down but not out after Erika Page 7

CONNECTION

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One Love Caribbean

COMING TO HOUSTON

CELEBRATING

7 YEARS December 2015

TEXAS

CARIBBEAN

SUMMIT APRIL 2016

Texas Multicultural Women Annual Tea & Hat Affair

Saturday, Sept 26, 2015

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Crowne Plaza Houston (Near Reliant)

8686 Kirby Drive Houston, Texas 77054

Speaker : Rev. Debra Hayes

Ticket : $50.00

Hat Parade * Silent Auction *Fun * Food * Prizes For tickets and more information, please contact: Texas Multicultural Women – (832) 871-6485

EMCEE: Jetola Anderson-Blair

The Publisher’s Thoughts The Real Story Behind the Republicans Lyrics I would have thought, by now, the Republicans would know and understand this phenomenon. After all, they are the “only” ones sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. Better yet, they are the “authorized” interpreter of the Bible; no one else should dare venture to challenge.

But first, allow me to say, this piece is educational; it’s not about hating Republicans or Democrats but a means to understand the landscapes in which we live. It not about good or bad characters, but a means to shine the light on the rationale behind policy making decisions. A well-known saying remind us: All that glitters is not gold.

Now, I hope you viewed the first debate of the Republican nominees for the 2016 Presidential election. And I am sure you concluded that they are up to their very old antics, and that is confusing the hell out of the electorate. There was only one good thing that I liked about the debate; it was Donald Trump ability to sweat the entire GOP party. Granted, they spoke nothing of substance but for the protection of the rich and their riches and the damming of the poor. Their lyrics were knotted in religious overtones and their bibles… or so they want us to think. And we are supposed to drink that kool-aid. But it was more about how to keep the poor in bondage for another 400 years.

So today, when Republicans think that Donald Trump is a kasha (thorn) in their behind, they have some serious internal soul searching to do.

The Republicans and Democrats lined up in cortege, devising schemes to shake and weaken the Presidency of Barack Obama.

It is quite timely to say the Republican party have minced to the ground the legitimacy of the President; no other US President have had such conundrums in modern time.

More insidious, however, are their efforts to control the American people, especially the poor, in their thinking, growth, and development. Their behavior and deeds clearly fits the definition of xenophobia - a fear of strangers in particular one of a different culture, community or ethnicity. A fear usually self-justified by the belief of losing one’s identity. As a result, their rhetoric and actions are filled with measures to develop strong policies to realize the fruition of their own craziness. Is that evil?

Why are the Republicans (and Democrats) talking about human life, opposing abortion while developing systems for incarceration?

Why are Americans working two and three jobs to barely survive? Why are educational systems running amok and is only meant to generate money for the shareholders, rather to educate the masses? Why? Why the anti-immigrant rhetoric? Why the 180-degree turn on their support of a pathway to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants already in the United States? They are now echoing the words “anchor babies,” their offensive term for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents.

Why do they believe that they can revoke their birthright citizenship?

They have entitled their slogan, “Taking back America.” My obvious question, would be “Who are we taking it back from?” As you have heard, the GOP are focused on a variety of offensive, unrealistic, and cruel proposals on immigration. Why? The bible interpreters forget this verse: “Thou shalt love

thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 31: 31, KJV) The issue at hand is simple: power and control. To grasp the mechanics behind this ideology of self-righteousness, we must first understand how power and control are attained in our nation, the United States of America.

It’s the concept of voting.

One thing you should know, our country’s history on voting is filled with a menagerie of legal voter intimidation and suppression, and that what’s driving the Republicans’ machismo.

Unlike many areas of the world where individuals gain power by wars, coups, and strong men tactics, in the USA, power is attained by the ballot box according to our Constitution. However, it never definitively defined who was eligible to vote. Voting is not a fundamental right for all Americans. As a result, this loophole has always been the playing field of interpretation for politicians and political parties in every State, both Democrats and Republicans.

“The right to vote is too important to be left unprotected” U.S. Reps. Mark Pocan said in a statement. “At a time when there are far too many efforts to disenfranchise Americans, a voting rights amendment would positively affirm our founding principle that our country is at its strongest when everyone participates.” (www.jsonline.com/blogs/news/207236941. html) Other than the simple inference to voting in Article II in the Constitution and subsequent amendments, the Supreme Court has been the watchdog scrutinizing restriction on voting.

From the inception of the nation, States have “created” laws to discriminate in voting on the basis of race, color, previous condition of servitude, reading ability, sex, and age. After the ability to vote was extended to all races (15 Amendment), many Southern States enacted poll tax laws as a means of restricting eligible voters; it required eligible voters to pay a fee to register to vote. Many Americans (Black and White) were unable to afford.

“The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was enacted to address entrenched racial discrimination in voting, an insidious and pervasive evil which had been perpetuated in certain parts of our country through unremitting and ingenious defiance of the Constitution.”

(Supreme Court of the US, Shelby County, AL v. Holder, June 2013) Caribbeaners, you should consider yourselves privileged, in that, you can become an American citizen and have the instant ability to vote. Many “born ya” Americans (including your children, grands, and great-grands), by the time they reach voting age, may never have the ability to vote and determine who holds power.

their life, compared with one in every six Latino males, and one in every 17 White males, if current incarceration trends continue. (The Sentencing Project, Huffington Post, 2013) This is no accident. It is all part of the voter suppression dynamics. By the time your children are born, there is a hawkish-eye to insure that your children go to prison. One way it is done is by underfunding public education.

Going on right now in Texas, lawyers for 600-plus districts have sued the State for not giving them enough money to achieve higher education goals. More than 5 million public school students are affected. The Texas legislature slashed $5.4 billion from the public education budget.

As a result of lack of funding, many students, especially from poor neighborhoods, are receiving a subpar education. They will more than likely be imprisoned and lose their rights to vote.

Abortion Issue Despite its religious connotation, the Republicans lyrics of selling of fetal organs, harming fetuses, and hating abortions have nothing to do with their faith and the bible.

So Christian folks stop the applause and listen. Put your hands down! They are simply talking to their base. It is a code word; they are telling their base that they need to have more babies. Better yet, here are some jarring statistics to consider: • • • •

The Hispanic population, 42 million in 2005, will rise to 128 million in 2050, tripling in size.

The Black population, 38 million in 2005, will grow to 59 million in 2050, a rise of 56%.

The Asian population, 14 million in 2005, will grow to 41 million in 2050, nearly tripling in size.

The white, non-Hispanic population, 199 million in 2005, will grow to 207 million in 2050, a 4% increase.

(Pew Research Center, 2008)

Purge Voter list It is the practice whereby election officials across the country are routinely striking millions of voters from the registration lists in order to update state registration rolls. Most likely, it is done in secrecy and voters would only be notified at the polling station when they attempt to vote. The burden of proof is left to the voter to paddle through the bureaucracy. The practice is well known for errors and time delaying tactics.

Hispanic Immigrant Panic For the past few months, the GOP candidates are pixelating our national newspapers and televisions with their not-so-common rhetoric on illegal immigration. They are now calling for the deportation of all undocumented immigrants and building a 2000-mile wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Others have grave concern about US Constitution, which guarantees birthright citizenship.

So how is it done today?

But is illegal immigration the real fear? No way! It’s the dread of losing their power base.

The Cradle to Prison Pipeline Those in the lowest social stratum in our country are most likely to receive an inferior education, inadequate healthcare, and poor nutrition, and sad to say, they are the ones most likely to be imprisoned. Many States permanently ban felons from voting even after being released from prison, parole, and probation, and having paid all their fines.

By 2050, the nation’s racial and ethnic mix will look quite different than it does now. Non-Hispanic whites, who made up 67% of the population in 2005, will be 47% in 2050. Hispanics will rise from 14% of the population in 2005 to 29% in 2050. Blacks were 13% of the population in 2005 and will be roughly the same proportion in 2050. Asians, who were 5% of the population in 2005, will be 9% in 2050.

(Pew Research Center, 2008)

One in every three Black males born today can expect to go to prison at some point in

Throughout the nation, Republicans, in one form or another, has enacted what amounts

Sylvanus Donaie to a vote suppression platform, passing many laws for the sole purpose of voting restriction. Here are some examples: • • • •

• • • • • • •

Photo ID requirement for voting.

Reducing early voting from 30 days to 12, while eliminating it entirely on evenings and weekends.

Require proof of residence when registering to vote.

Eliminated the certification of statewide voter registrars, meaning that anyone who registers others to vote can only do so in the county in which they’re certified.

Increased the residency requirement for voting from 10 days to 28 (excepting presidential elections).

Require that citizens who move within the state less than four weeks prior to an election vote in their old locality.

Eliminated faxing and emailing of absentee ballots to anyone other than military or overseas voters.

Prohibited municipal clerks from returning absentee ballots to citizens to fix mistakes on their forms.

Required an area for poll monitors be set up between three and eight feet from the table where voters sign in.

Eliminated straight-ticket voting for all but military or overseas voters, increasing wait times at polling locations.

Made it harder to use a student ID as proof of residence when registering to vote.

(Green, J. June 2015, AMERICAblog)

So, what is the real story behind the Republicans lyrics? It’s simple! It is about protecting their power base; eliminating those mostly likely not to vote for the GOP party. It is done by “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.” (Proverbs 6:16-19). It is quite easy to misunderstand their cautionary religious tone of their ongoing nationwide campaign to “de real ting.” The sky is not falling, and therefore please be sure to test their lyrics propagating myths. Last ask yourself this question: is their platform a genuine need, or is it about voter intimidations and suppressions?

Finally, I leave you with a words from one of our great Virgin Islander Wilmot Edward Blyden, Father of Pan Africanism.

“If you are not yourself, if you surrender your personality, you have nothing left to give the world. You have no pleasure, no use, nothing which will attract and charm me, for by the suppression of your individuality, you lose your distinctive character.”

So until then, One Love!

Sylvanus Donaie BA, BSEE, MTM, MPM, MBA Of course, I love when you disagree with me, and I want to hear from you. If you disagree, please let me know. You can always email me at sdonaie@ olchouston.com.

binson

Page 4

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

SEPTEMBER 2015

Jamaican-Born Carroll Robinson

Vies for City Controller Post

By Sylvanus Donaie

August 28, 2015: I recently sat down for a candid interview with Carroll Robinson at the Hotel Zaza in Houston. He is a candidate for the Controller’s office for the City of Houston in the upcoming elections.

Carroll wears many hats to include Associate Professor at the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University (TSU) where he has served as Associate Dean of External Affairs. Since 2012, he serves as a Houston Community College trustee, and was a former at-large member of the Houston City Council.

DONAIE: Carroll, while you are familiar to Jamaicans in Houston, but to others in the Caribbean community, they may not know much about you. What would you want them to know about you?

CARROLL: I was born in Kingston. Eventually, my family moved to the US. In the 6th grade, I got that accent beaten out of me. In school, they put you back a grade because you had a funny accent. I still remember that language class.

DONAIE: You are vying for the City Controller position for the City of Houston.

CARROLL: Yes, basically the chief financial officer and treasurer. You’re in charge of making sure the taxpayers’ money is not wasted. …that the money in spent on the things that need to get done. I see the job also as being an ambassador for the international community, not just for those of us who are here, but those of us who want to come. I want to make sure that people in this City sees the Caribbean as a whole.

A lot of people don’t realize the Caribbean is not just made up of black people; it is everything.

DONAIE: How does the position of City Controller mesh with the Mayor and the City Council?

CARROLL: The Controller is independently elected, and you are the financial officer for the City.

It’s like in a company. If the CEO and the Board of Directors wants to spend money, you are the one that says “yes, you have the money, or no, you don’t have the money.”

How this relates to the Caribbean community, we are a large part of the entrepreneur class in the community. The entrepreneur immigrants make up about 2/3 of the job creators in Houston. So if we do not have job creators, the City does not have the money to pay for the police and the fire department, for garbage collection and to provide healthcare services. And, that is what I have been trying to get across to everyone. It is not about saying how to spend the money, but to ensure that there is an economic foundation in Houston to generate the money.

DONAIE: So are you saying with the changing faces of the community, your task is to bring that out to the wider community.

CARROLL: Most definitely, almost a quarter of the city’s population lives on poverty. A large percentage of the City is immigrant. Houston has either the 2nd or the 3rd largest population of Caribbean people in the United States. With the Jamaican population, we are in the top 5 in the country. When you look at what is happening and what is to come, the immigrant community will be a large part of determining what happens in the future in Houston.

DONAIE: Are you satisfied with the job of the current Houston City Controller Ronald C. Green?

CARROLL: I think, there are things that have been done well, and there are things that have not been done so well. There is room for improvement.

I think you can share more information quickly. We had a situation, where the audit letters were not shared with Council. The audit letters are when an outside audit firm comes in and tells you, what you are doing right and what you can improve. Sharing information with the Council, is an area that needs to improve.

The Controller need to speak out on women in government getting paid equally. We have the first woman City attorney in the history, and she is paid less than the last City attorney, who was man.

I am going to make sure that we support equal pay for equal work.

When women are underpaid, it is disservice, but it is also an economic disservice to the future of the City. Two thirds of economic growth depends on spending money. There are many single women in the community.

DONAIE: You have held many roles, what drives you?

CARROLL: My parents. Even if my Mom and Dad did not have a formal education, they got involved in everything. They made us do so too… I went to Boy Scouts. I went to Boys Club. I played football. It has always been ingrained in me that you participate. You try to make a difference.

DONAIE: Who are your role models?

CARROLL: Outside of my Mom and Dad, there is a guy name Harvey Kasselman; he was my real role model. He was at the college where I did my undergrad. I run track and played basketball. He made me read all the management books that were available in the 70s and 80s. Harvey and Stockton State College is the place that shaped me besides my parents.

DONAIE: Is there anything that you have done that helps you to be an effective leader?

Carroll Robinson and Sylvanus Donaie

CARROLL: There is a great book called the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. One of the habits is ‘always begin with the end of mind’. That rule has stuck with me.

Carroll Robinson When I went to City Hall as a Council member, there were quite a lot of tractor trailer accidents. I was concerned about my family members and the community at large. I found there was a law in place that nobody had ever used in this state; you could designate no trucks in the left lane.

I got people from Texas A&M to come down to do a study. We eventually passed a law banning tractor trailers in the left lanes.

And the reason why? I started with an end in mind, because I wanted to reduce accidents on the highways, and because I was worried not only about my family but also the community..

The very first thing I did when I got to City Hall was get baby changing tables added to the men’s bathrooms at City Hall and City Hall Annex. I also worked on improving the working conditions of field crews. In the city, there are field crews; they are scattered around the City, and they have work shacks. The shacks were in terrible shape, I got them to rebuild shelters for the work crews, so those guys and ladies would have better conditions. That’s what drives me.

DONAIE: Why should we vote for you?

CARROLL: Because, I am the best qualified. It is not just about numbers, my life is about the people. That is what I am all about.

You have to understand the numbers, how they relate to real life people. There are 2.2 million people; if you raise property taxes, it will drive some people out of homeownership, or prevent some of them from ever owning a home. It’s not just property taxes. It is also more police officers; so if something occurs, police can be there in timely manner. Even more importantly help to drive down crime.

Not just spending on technologies, but it’s the cameras catching illegal dumpers, because some

peoples neighborhood should not look like a garbage dump, while others look like the botanic gardens. When you remember what you do is about people. That is what I will take into office with me.

The reason I am the best qualified, because I understand what it means to have grown up without anything, and making something out of it. And you want to make sure the City creates an environment that allows other people to succeed. They need people at City Hall that will help to make that happen for them.

DONAIE: So if you are elected today and we ask you this question a year from now, what will you say you have accomplished?

CARROLL: The things I want to accomplish are – Reduce poverty. Increase the median income which will help to reduce poverty. To ensure children have a chance to succeed; you do so before they are born. Provide prenatal care to their mothers. End childhood hunger by providing meals to kids during the summer months. Childhood literacy, work with the TV stations to create public service programs that the children can watch before they go to school, and the last thing, increase the graduation rates of minority men. It will lift up the graduation rate of everyone else in the system.

By the end of the first year, I want to make sure the City has a balanced budget, rebuild Houston on the drainage fee, work on fixing the pension fund, pay down the liability fund.

DONAIE: Any final words?

CARROLL: Get out and vote.

Most importantly hold on to your family; hold on to your friends.

I would personally appreciate your support. I have not forgotten where I came from. I am still Thelma and Eugene’s son, and I will take that to City Hall with me.

SEPTEMBER 2015

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN Page 5

Houston Caribbean Respond to Dominica Disaster OLC: On August 27, Nationals and friends of the Commonwealth of Dominica woke up to the news that Tropical Storm (TS) Erika dumped over 10 inches of rain on the island in just six hours resulting in extreme flooding and mudslides

By Latania Mena Attorney at Law We are well into the second half of 2015 and many of us are planning for the festive season.

While you may be running out of time to soak the last set of fruits for those cakes you plan on baking, now is the perfect time to check your immigration status.

Here are a few pointers to consider:

TS Erika ravaged Dominica. It destroyed hundreds of homes.

Many communities were isolated because of collapsed bridges. Mudslides, rocks and debris resulted in untraversable roads.

Worse yet, a wide cross section of the island was without water, electricity and telecommunication services. In every corner of the Commonwealth, there are vivid signs of the storm’s fury.

The Dominican Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, called on the Diaspora for help. “I would also like to reach out to members of the Dominican Diaspora to make a special effort to raise funds to send to relatives and friends at home, as soon as possible. Having such money circulating in Dominica is guaranteed to boost the local economy,” he said.

Under the leadership of the Dominican Diaspora, the Caribbean Community in Houston heed the call.

Dominica Flood Relief Team, headed by Makaza Dinnard and Natasha Robert, spearheaded efforts to aid in Dominica’s recovery. They reached out to the Houston public, while concurrently figuring the shipping logistics. “We started working on a social media campaign to make the Houston Caribbean community aware of what had taken place, in terms of

Things to Consider When Filing for Family Members to Immigrate to the U.S.

Is your Green Card valid?

Dominica Flood Relief Team, in Houston

the widespread flooding and a call to action to donate relief supplies such as water, foodstuffs, baby essentials, hygiene products, medical supplies and clothing,” Dinnard said.

The Duo and their supporter setup drop-off locations at various restaurants to include Caribbean Cuisine, Cool Runnings, 1st Belize Island Kitchen and Island Spice Restaurant.

A donation drive took place in front Tata Afrikan Imports.

Likewise, Dominica Houston Association Inc. (DHA) call for action to assist with the relief fund raising effort. They mobilized and collaborated with the Dominica Flood Relief Team, collecting monetary and donated food items.

“As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we established a “go fund me” account in the name of DHA organization, creat-

ing a more recognized avenue where people can feel comfortable, knowing where their donations would be placed. The “go fund me” website address is: www.gofundme.com/dhaofficialrelief,” said Colette St. Rose-Christmas, the President of DHA. St. Rose-Christmas noted, “Your gift is tax deductible, and it will directly support recovery and rebuilding our beloved country.

Your donations and assistance will be greatly appreciated.”

Many of us lock away this prized item in wallets and safety deposit boxes never to look at it again.

For those with permanent green cards, note that most have a validity period of ten years after which you will need to renew them. If your green card is set to expire in the next six months or has already expired you should consider applying for a new card with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

You will need to complete a Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card and submit the appropriate fees to complete the renewal process.

The same rule applies if your green card has been lost or stolen. Many folks never think of their green cards until they need them for purposes such as travel or employment.

Please be aware this upcoming holiday season, that if your plans include air travel outside the U.S., many airlines will not allow you to board the return leg with an expired green card, unless you have a temporary green card or a transportation letter.

An expired, lost or stolen green card will also make it difficult for you to renew your driver’s license and prove to your employer that you have legal status to work here in the U.S. Take a few minutes out of your day and confirm the status of your green card and make sure it’s a valid one.

Did you move to a new address?

Did you know that most non-US citizens are required, by law, to report change of addresses to USCIS within 10 days of moving within the US and its territories? This is especially critical for persons with pending cases with USCIS. It is not enough to change your address with the post office as the post office is not allowed to forward mails from USCIS to any new addresses. So if you have a pending application for yourself or your relative with USCIS you will need to act now and complete and submit Form AR-11 to update your address in

their system.

Did You Become a U.S. Citizen?

You are required to update your change in status with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

By so doing, you are ensuring that you will receive all disability, retirement and social security benefits for which you qualify for, as a U.S citizen.

You are also ensuring that your benefits are not calculated based on the standards applied to legal permanent residents. You must visit your local social security office, taking along proof of U.S. citizenship, your I.D and completing a simple request form, for the update to be done. The inter-agency systems are not linked and if you do not go to the SSA office, your new status is not likely to be recorded. Go to www.ssa.gov and find out more.

Do you have a valid passport?

Check your passport expiration date and take steps to get a new one if you have less than 6 months before it expires. You also want to make sure your children have valid passports; remember their passports have shorter validity periods, which may vary from country to country and the age of the child.

It’s also a good time to locate birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc. and ensure you have the latest forms of these documents that your home country is currently using. If you recently became a U.S. citizen, now would also be a good time to apply for a U.S. passport, as it will be required for any future international travel plans.

Tourist Visas: it is wonderful to have loved ones visit from home especially during the holidays.

Help them to protect their visas by making sure they know how long they are allowed to remain in the U.S. on each visit. Many people mistakenly believe that if they have a five or ten year visitor’s visa, they can remain in the U.S. for as long as they want.

This is not so.

Continue on Page 14

Page 6

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

ARIBBEAN Briefs

SEPTEMBER 2015

Trinidad and Tobago: 2015 General Election

Rowley IN, Persad-Bissessar OUT

Haiti Culture and Carifesta XII OLC: Dr. Keith Rowley of the People’s National Movement (PNM) won the 2015 General Election of Trinidad and Tobago. PNM captured 23 of the 41 constituencies. Rowley will be the next Prime Minister, and Kamla Persad-Bissessar of the People’s Partnership will become the new opposition leader.

President of Haiti, H. E. Michel Martelly hands over the CARIFESTA baton created by acclaimed Haitian Visual Artist Phillipe Dodard to Barbados Minister of Culture Hon. Stephen Lashley.

Haiti hosted CARIFESTA Les Cayes, Jacmel, Cap Haitien cultural and artistic event in the XII, the Caribbean Festival of and Gonaives.

Caribbean; it has fused all forms Arts, from August 21-30, 2015 of expression of Latin America with all its fames, attractions The opening ceremony featured and the Caribbean since 1972. and excitements. This year, 22 Haitian President Michel Mar- It is a celebration of diversity; countries, include Canada, par- telly, Prime Minister Evans Paul talent and brotherhood. It gives ticipated in the over 150 events and several Heads of State and artists the opportunity to disand performances which was Government of the Caribbean. cuss, share experiences, learn held in many cities around Haifrom one another and share their ti: Port-au-Prince, Carrefour, CARIFESTA is one of the largest knowledge and traditions.

Speaking to the press, Rowley said, “I want to thank all the people for the very hard work they did in bringing a successful end in what was a difficult election. I want to thank Trinidad and Tobago for demonstrating once again that we can conduct ourselves in a manner that is worthy of the name Trinidad and Tobago.”

Rowley at Balisier House (PNM headquarters) speaking to supporters also addressed the UNC: “Tonight your party has tasted defeat,” but added that the PNM is familiar with the taste of that brew. Rowley assured the UNC though, “We are all in this together,” as he promised to govern for all.

Dr. Rowley completed his secondary schooling at Bishop’s High School in Tobago. He hold a BSc. Geology from the University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica and MSc in Volcanic Stratigraphy, UWI, St. Augustine. He is a Vol-

canologist who obtained his Doctorate in Geology, specializing in Geochemistry. He is a known nature lover, who enjoys gardening, hiking and is an avid golfer.

As a Research Scientist, he held the positions of Research Fellow and later Head of the Seismic Research Unit at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. He was also the General Manager of Stateowned National Quarries Company Limited.

He first ran for political office in 1981, where he contested the Tobago West seat. To date, Keith Rowley has the distinction of being the only PNM candidate to have contested a seat in a General Election in both Tobago and Trinidad.

Persad-Bissessar, in her concession speech, wished Rowley well and saying she has no regrets.

On May 26, 2010, Persad-Bissessar was sworn in as Prime Minister after securing 29 out of 41 seats in the House of Representatives. The People’s Partnership is a political coalition in Trinidad and Tobago among four political parties: the United National Congress, the Congress of the People, the Tobago Organization of the People, the National Joint Action Committee.

10039 Bissonnet St. Suite 337 Houston, TX 77036

(between Belfway 8 and Hwy 59) Evening and weekend appointments available.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN Page 7

Montserrat sends Defense Force contingent to Dominica

Dominica is down but not out after Erika PM Address to Nationals at Home and in the Diaspora

Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit

With the passage of Tropical Storm Erika and coming right after the conclusion of the Royal Montserrat Defense Force annual camp the Government of Montserrat with the United Kingdom Department for International Development support has decided to deploy a contingent from the Force to Dominica. The contingent will carry out disaster relief work and support CDEMA in their work on that island. The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) is a regional inter-governmental agency for disaster management in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Simon Bolivar Cultural Centre Opens in Jamaica

OLC: September 6: Jamaica’s Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller and the President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro held a ribbon cutting ceremony to open The Simón Bolívar Cultural Centre in Kingston.

A gift to Jamaica from the Government and people of Venezuela, the center is named in honor of South American Liberator and Venezuelan Revolutionary Leader, Simón Bolívar, who, while exiled in Jamaica 200 years ago, wrote the famous ‘Carta de Jamaica’ or Letter of Jamaica Located in close proximity to the Princess Street building, where Simón Bolívar stayed in 1815, the facility is intended to promote and develop cultural programs to help raise awareness of and appreciation for Latin American culture and of the ideals of the Liberator.

Its opening symbolizes 50 years of diplomatic relations between Jamaica and Venezuela.

Simpson Miller, in her re-

Simpson Miller and Maduro shortly after his arrival at the Donald Sangster Airport in Montego Bay on Saturday, September 5, 2015 marks, said Jamaica is honored that Simón Bolívar sought and received refuge in Jamaica, noting that his brief sojourn of seven months “became the foundation for the historical and unbreakable bonds of friendship between Jamaica and Venezuela.”

“Like our Marcus Garvey, whose philosophy of cultural identity and self-confidence has ignited the world, the ideas and princi-

ples of this outstanding freedom fighter of Venezuela will be kept alive in Jamaica,” she said.

President Maduro was on the island for the 10th Anniversary Commemorative Summit (September 5) of the PetroCaribe Agreement. Government Ministers from Latin America and the Caribbean met to examine its activities and achievements over the past decade, and to pave the future of the agreement.

St. Kitts and Nevis signs U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act On August 31, the government of St. Kitts and Nevis signed the agreement with the Government of the United States of America to implement the U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). Enacted by the U.S. Congress in 2010, FATCA targets non-compliance

by U.S. taxpayers using foreign accounts. FATCA requires foreign financial institutions to report to the Internal Revenue Service information about financial accounts held by U.S. taxpayers, or by foreign entities in which U.S. taxpayers hold a substantial ownership interest.

This kind of information exchange is a top priority for the

United States as access to information from international financial institutions is critically important to the full and fair enforcement of U.S. laws.

U.S. Ambassador to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, and the

Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, Larry Palmer commented, “Every year, tax evasion deprives governments of all sizes of much-needed resources to fund public services and investments. The United Continue on Page 14

OLC: August 28, 2015: The Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit, addressed his citizens and the diaspora of Tropical Storm Erika disaster. When the tropical storm struck, he was in route from an International UN Conference in China.

“It is with a heavy heart that I address you tonight. You can imagine what hell it has been for me, since I heard of the passing of Tropical Storm Erika and the damage it has done to my dear people and our beloved country, the Commonwealth of Dominica,” he said.

In route to Dominica, the MP arrived in Saint Lucia to realize that Dominica’s recently extended and renovated Douglas-Charles Airport was closed.

The storm inflicted severe damage to the infrastructure.

Within hours of his arrival, the Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, made arrangements for a helicopter to take him directly to Dominica.

The PM is calling for Dominicans to pull together to solve our problems with the help of our global partners. “It may have been part of the “Great Design”, to send us a wake-up call,” his started.

“Member states of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), neighboring members of the overseas regions of France, fellow members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and regional

organizations like the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency have responded positively to our plight and made it possible for many of us to fly around the country to gauge the extent of the damage.”

“The extent of the devastation is monumental. It is far worse than expected. It is true that many communities like Petite Savanne, Delices and Coulibistrie have been swamped and are still cut off from the rest of Dominica, but nearly every community has been hit.”

“There is extensive damage across our small island after floods swamped villages, destroyed homes and wiped out roads. Some communities are no longer recognizable. It was a harrowing experience for me to see suffering on such a grand scale. My heart and soul grieve for you,” the prime minister continued.

There are confirmed cases of at least 20 citizen who died in the tragedy and some of missing persons. Skerrit extended to the bereaved his deepest and most sincere condolences, pledging not to cease until contact is made with every community and a full account is given of every single missing person.

Dominica’s economy will suffer severely from its registered growth of 3.4% in 2014. “This was no doubt due to the heavy investments we have been making in infrastructural development Continue on Page 14

Page 8

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

SEPTEMBER 2015

John Henry’s Scholarship Foundation Annual Cook-Off

The John Henry’s Scholarship Foundation Family with a Scholarship Recipient

OLC: Investing in your community is a great way to give back to those who have helped support your business.

Successful members of the community have a responsibility to help those that are less fortunate and contribute to the common good. And, this is the creed of John Henry.

John graduated from Prairie View A&M University in 1969 with a degree in Culinary Arts. Thereafter he found employment at Rice Epicurean Markets and quickly moved to middle management for the deli and bakery department.

With this opportunity, John was mixing spices and marinades striving for perfect blends and superb taste. And he did.

John continued on teaching at the Harris

County jails and the Houston Community College.

As head of the Culinary Services Department for the Houston Community College Systems, John taught the masterful art of cooking for twenty years.

He oversaw the training for future chefs, cooks and caterers specializing in the preparation and application of spices, rubs and sauces. His students are nationally-acclaimed, award winning chefs who have taken Best of Show and numerous other awards at the Texas Restaurant Association Show held at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston. In addition to his many awards and degrees, John is certified as a culinary educator and executive chef.

Continue on Page 14

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OLC: Cooling Runnings Jamaican Restaurant Grill did it again. They held an open air concert, free to the public, to celebrate the 53rd Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence. On stage was the best of the best, starting with Fatta Carey as Master of Ceremonies with his cohort of Mike Faith Sound System. Khiara, the former Ms. Bahamas, entertained the crowd with her voice and music.

Cooling Runnings temporarily converted its parking lot to a mini playing ground where attendees enjoyed a soccer match between Team Soccer Passion and Team Cool Runnings. It was hilarious to see the moves, playing techniques and scoring schemes. The teams were calling fouls on each other, and for this reason, the game was a draw; no winner. It was all in good fun.

Of course, no other than the award-winning Galaxy Band performed, energizing the crowd with their various genres of music. But that night, it was more

reggae, the national music of Jamaica.

This band’s accomplishments are even more impressive when you consider its age. It was even more remarkable when they provided the backup music for Roy “Mr. Festival” Rayon.

Born in Westmoreland, Rayon studied at the Jamaica School of Drama. He is best known for his success in the Festival song contest, which he has entered many times since his first entry in 1983 (with “Festival Train”), first winning in 1985 with “Love Fever.” He won again in 1987 with “Give Thanks and Praises,” celebrating 25 years of Jamaican independence, and for a third time in 1991 with “Come Rock.” He won for the fourth time in 2008 with “Rise and Shine.” Rayon’s success in the Popular Song Competition has led to him being dubbed Mr. Festival.

Kudo to Terron and Janay for giving back to their community in a fun and loving way.

Texas

CARIBBEAN

Life

Tributes to Root Reggae Peter Tosh and Lucky Dube

Riddims Night Clubs will be at center when Vivid Promotion and TJ Promotion bring “Tribute to Reggae Greats” on September 26, 2015. The promoters promise to bring significant cultural awareness to the people of Houston whom appreciate the art of classic Reggae music—that, of course, which pertains to the original music from Jamaica!

Mike of TJ Promotion explains the rationale. “The reason I want to do this show is because there are quite a few Reggae artists that have not gotten real recognition worldwide. People like Dennis Brown and John Holt… Peter Tosh never got the respect that he should have got in this business, and unfortunately when he could have gotten it, the situation that took place happened.”

Lucky Dube

Peter Tosh

This event will feature the life and music of Lucky Dube and Peter Tosh.

a promoter of Rastafari. He was murdered in 1987 during a home invasion.

Lucky Dube (8-3-1964 – 10-18 2007) was a South African reggae musician and Rastafarian.

He recorded 22 albums in Zulu, English and Afrikaans in a 25year period and was South Africa’s biggest-selling reggae artist.

Dube was murdered in Johannesburg.

There will be a live band, U-Fyah Band, to accompany the featured singers, legends in their own right. Black Thunder, coming in from Europe, will focus on the hits of Lucky Dube, while Naggo Morris, coming from Jamaica, will perform the music of Peter Tosh. Glen Washington will climax the session with his renditions of the legends as well as some of his own music.

Peter Tosh, OM (10-19-1944 to 9-11-1987) was a Jamaican reggae musician. Along with Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer he was one of the core members of the band The Wailers (1963–1974), after which he established himself as a successful solo artist and

“I would like to start this tribute tour here in Texas, because I think people in Texas would appreciate Reggae. They got good Continue on Page 14

UniverSoul Circus

Caribbean Party under the big top

UniverSoul Circus did not feel like a typical circus. They injected the Caribbean flavors. Sure there is a high-wire act, a strongman, acrobats, elephants and a tiger trainer, but instead of the drum-andbrass music there was our local DJ Smithy spinning well known soca and calypso music.

Instead of clowns throwing confetti on the crowd, a colorfully clad Caribbean carnival band streamed out on center stage to get everyone on their feet. Caribbean stilt-walkers led the crowd in a “Soca Train” conga line.

Page 10

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

ONNECTIONS

Lives Really Matter Jean-Baptiste (Jounen KweyolOSADS), Rhonda Rosemin (Hibiscus Productions), TATA Enterprise, and Club Riddims.

Terry Layne Staff Writer tlayne@olchouston.com Today, as we reflect on some of our recent stories in Breaking News, I am moved by an emotional mixture of horror, grief, outrage, and even helplessness in trying to sort things out and make sense of these major events. I reference two horrific stories, seemingly different in character; but clearly baring grief on human lives just the same.

The first one being that disastrous Tropical Storm Erika and its devastating impact on our beloved families in Dominica; and secondly, the recent killing with reportedly unknown motive of Deputy Sheriff Darren Goforth in northwest Houston (Cypress).

I want to treat the specific details of these events as secondary to my “editorial comments;” if I may. And further mention that these details can be attained through other mediums as may be needed.

But let me first begin with a heartfelt public acknowledgement and admiration for a handful of people within our broad Caribbean community, who almost instinctively began a “Disaster Relief Initiative” to assist Dominican families in their homeland, stricken by the storm.

The list includes, but is not limited to the following: Dominica Houston Association, Houston Caribbean Festival (HCF), World Beat Radio, Houston Caribbean Achievement Awards, Jugglers United, Adrenaline Mass Band, Madd Colors, Soca Passion, Nickel Sounds System, Emron Garage, Divine One, Kelly St. Rose & Shamah Lloyd (Houston Caribbean Queen), Shari Augustine, Makaza Dinnard (Miss Caribbean Houston), Tasha Roberts (Your Caribbean Nations), Stephanie Albert, Stephanie Alexander, Andrea

It was also an impressive note that our local Caribbean Organizations are all lined up in support of Dominica Houston Association; including St. Kitts & Nevis, Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, Jamaica Foundation, Trinidad, and Houston Association of Panamanians.

The Initiative further included help from popular Caribbean restaurants in the area like Jamaican Me Hungry (Baytown), Island Spice Grill & Bar (Northwest Houston), Cool Runnings (Southwest Houston), Caribbean Cuisine (Southwest Houston), Love Bird (Mission Bend), Grace (Missouri City), and Tropical Diner (Katy). One Love Caribbean News (OLC) will continue bringing you updates on the progress of recovery of Dominica and its stricken families.

Obviously, the walk back for Dominica to pre-storm normalcy will be long and slow; but the point being made here is that we care for each other; we’re in it together; and that we leave no one behind. I’m aware that many others are at work behind the scenes toward a restored Dominica. And I feel privileged to convey the humblest gratitude and appreciation to everyone involved in this Disaster Relief Initiative; including those who will be helping in the months ahead to raise Dominica back up to its running speed again. The stricken lives of Dominica really matter.

There will be follow up announcements and other pertinent information with ongoing opportunities for others to help as we move forward. Please contact any member of the Dominica Houston Association or its collaborative organizations listed above to learn how you may continue to help in the effort.

In my second area of reflective thinking, I feel almost traumatized trying to envision a scenario where someone, anyone would be murdered in ambush the way Deputy Goforth was, as he filled up his patrol car with gasoline at a Corner Store. The heinousness of such a crime is unquestionably indefensible, police officer or not. But the question in my mind is not about the rightness

or wrongness of the act as it is about the mental health issues, which may be going by unnoticed or unexamined with the rash of “rage killings” reported by news over the recent years.

It seems like our collective attitude is one of “acceptance,” for one reason or the other.

The lives that were changed by Goforth’s murder also matter.

That’s not a question. But we ought to be cautious enough to learn a bit more about this second case before allowing ourselves to be sucked into yet another “this or that” dispute.

It almost appears that by policy or practice, maybe both, we’ve kicked mental health services off the budgetary table ($$), placing those in need of treatment either in prisons or on city streets; and spending those treatment dollars on other priorities.

And in some odd way, the public either “ignores” or “accepts” the situation, to the extent that we have even coined some clichés around what seems to be psychotic behaviors. We call it “going postal” and other expressions indicative of “psycho-emotional distress.”

By the way, we still haven’t learned about the mental status of this shooter in Cypress; and we may never get the full story about the other shooter in the case of those newscasters in Roanoke, Virginia who were “executed” on live television, just a few weeks ago. Ok, so what am I saying?

SEPTEMBER 2015

Houston MMA Fight Scene

Jason Langellier, Virgin Islander on the Rise OLC: Jason Langellier was born on the island of St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands and moved to Houston TX at the age of 4. He played basketball in high school and earned a scholarship to play at Cumberland University in Tennessee. He also played for the US Virgin Islands Professional Basketball team.

Inspired by his younger brother, Brian, Jason decided to pursue the sport, Mixed Martial Arts. For the past 4 years, he has been training in Martial Arts with Metro Fight Club and his interest in the sport has lead him to competition. At 6 feet 4 inches tall, his athleticism and experience in Basketball as well as discipline and training helped in the transition to MMA. With a short time in the sport, his determination allowed him to compete and become the champion that he is today. He competed in amateur fights and was undefeated with a record of 4-0. With this experience and claiming the amateur title and encouragement from his coach Soliz, Jason decided to enter Professional competition.

He made his professional debut on April 25, 2015 and captured his first Professional title with a twenty-five second TKO in

the first round. On August 29, 2015, he fought in his second Professional fight at the Legacy Fighting Championship and won by knock out, record (2-0).

Jason has and is continuing to make an impact in the Texas MMA fight scene and is one to look out for in the future.

Langellier enjoys spending his down time with family and friends. When he is not training and fighting, he spends time mentoring and working with under privileged kids providing encouragement and being a positive role model in their lives. His full-time profession is teaching behavioral students in the first and fifth grades.

He also gives back to the youth by coaching his Summer League Basketball team, The All Star Buffs. When asked where he sees himself in MMA in the Future, he responded “I would ultimately like to get to UFC, every fighter’s dream. I am enjoying my journey and respect and love the sport.” Jason sends thanks to his family & friends for supporting him on his journey and Coach Saul Soliz as well as his training partners. Also thank you to my sponsors.

Follow on Facebook @ Jason Langellier & Instagram@ slim_reaper24

Well, I believe that we ought to pay closer attention to who we “allow” into office by voting or not voting. We need to listen to what policy makers say or not say; and talk back to them at the voting polls. It seems like the time is long gone for us to be caught up in the public frays such as, whether or not Black or White lives matter. The racial divide seems a little different from a “call for justice,” as I understand the Black Lives Matter movement.

Personally, I see the “Black Lives Matter” as totally separate project from the greater issue of a racial divide in America. But the real issues lie in those policies and practices we live by, at least in my view. And while there might be a “feeling” that Caribbean people may not identify with a lot of the racial issues from time to time in America; it may not be Continue on Page 14

On August 29, 2015, he fought in his second Professional fight at the Legacy Fighting Championship and won by knock out, record (2-0).

SEPTEMBER 2015

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN Page 11

BIRTHDAYS IN THE DIASPORA

AN INSPIRATIONAL MOMENT Encouragement from the Word of God

The Best Power Tool Marlene Seaton Hunte Jamaica

Marcia Head Jamaica

Laurina Donaie Virgin Islands

Blondel Wiles Jamaica

Edwin Polimis.

St. Lucia

Ron Hamilton Virgin Islands

Argelia Savory Panama

Carly Ramjit Guyana

Chris Walters Jamaica

Gerald Bellot Dominica

Natasha Chung Jamaica

Cynthie Gaston St. Lucia

Charmaine Bailey Staff Writer cbailey@olchouston.com Church was celebrating its annual Missions Awareness Program and being newcomers we were excited about it. We thought for sure that one of the many Jamaicans there would be carrying the Jamaican flag in the parade of nations. How disappointed we were when our flag did not appear in the parade of nations. The lesson learned was, don’t assume that someone else took care of business, but rather, check to see. Don’t wait for someone else to do the job; if I see the problem it means I must take the initiative to do something about it or at least bring it to the attention of the appropriate person.

Don’t Wait… Initiate!

As we enter into Black History month, I could not help but think about several accomplishments by folks who saw a problem or a situation and took the initiative to do something about it or to start a movement for the cause. Naturally, Dr. Martin Luther King comes immediately to mind, but I also thought about folks who did not make the limelight and received no

public or private recognition or accolade.

There’s the relative who saw young children who were being abused or neglected and stepped forward to raise them like her own; the folks who decided to become foster parents or adoptive parents because they saw the plight of orphans both at home and abroad. Slavery was eventually abolished because a group of people saw the wrong and decided to speak out and start the abolition movement. God initiated the steps that lead to salvation for the whole world. Romans 5:8 “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” (NLT) Jesus offered himself to die for us; he did not wait for us to petition him. If you see a potential problem, don’t wait for it to surface to try to fix it; take preventive measures to avoid it. Whether it involves a matter of social injustice or help for the elderly person who lives next door, don’t wait… initiate!

In a conversation with a woman recently, I asked her if she had children. “One grown-up daughter” she replied. “She lives 20 minutes from here, but I don’t call her because she doesn’t call me.”

What a waste of a God-given relationship!

Whether it is a relative or a friend, it’s okay to initiate a phone call or a visit. If you keep on calling first, one day that person will catch on and surprise you with a call.

In your relationships with family or friends you may feel like you are in the corner of a boxing ring, but someone has to leave the corner first and extend the hand of reconciliation and that someone is you. Initiate contact, start a discussion, say “I’m sorry” first, give the first hug or extend your hand first. It involves being humble – but humility is the very heart of God, Who is an Initiator. He created us and also designed us to be initiators. Don’t wait… initiate!

Charmaine Bailey is a speaker and a Christian Education Teacher. She studied Christian Education at Jamaica Theological Seminary and hold a BA Linguistics from the University of the West Indies.

Pauline Row Died at 53 Megan Harris Guyana

Bronco Cash Jamaica

Marilyn Ragoo Trinidad and Tobago

With deep regret, we announce the passing of Miss Pauline Row of Houston, formerly of Jamaica, who died Tuesday, September 8, 2015, after a prolonged illness. She was a vibrant, loving and caring member of the Caribbean community and will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her by daughters, Dana and Nikki, son, Paul, and seven grandchildren.

Pauline’s extensive medical challenges have left her family struggling to provide her with the memorial service she deserves. She spent her life giving to others and we humbly ask that the Caribbean Community honor the life she led through your generous cash contributions and donations.

Artencia Raffington Jamaica

Sheila Jones Jamaica

Gylla Headley Rawlins Trinidad and Tobago

Funeral is scheduled for Friday, September 25, 2015 at National Cremation, 5400 Hwy 6 North, Houston, TX, 77084.

Please contact Pastor Emanuel at 832-774-6128 to make a contribution. Any support you provide will be appreciated.

Page 12

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

OPEN EDITORIAL Increasing Energy Cost in the Caribbean Islands Despite Being a Paradise for Renewable Energy

With plentiful natural resources and expensive fossil fuels, Caribbean countries have a strong incentive to be at the forefront of renewable energy development.

They have all the incentives and resources to convert to 100% renewable energy. But is it happening?

Derek’s one-door shop selling cakes, sweets and soft drinks in Barbados appears at first glance to be just like any other, until you lift your eyes upward. On the roof is an array of solar panels arranged in a less-than textbook design, but the aesthetics don’t matter. What’s important is that it produces usable energy.

What motivated Derek to get into solar power? Was it a desire to be green or combat climate change? “Climate change? I don’t even know what that is,” he says. “I just didn’t want to depend on the power company.”

Electricity is expensive in Barbados. Derek bought a solar kit including one panel for US$100.

Derek is a mechanic by trade and is using his system to charge car batteries. He has found a way to integrate his solar system into his business. This is entrepreneurship in its truest sense. A viable business venture for Derek and a chance for wider environmental benefits for the country are the win-wins, but neither of these was the prime driver for Derek. He was essentially a tinkerer with an idea and wanted to try it out in the hope of paying less for power.

If Derek can make it to such a level of self-sufficiency starting from small beginnings, does this mean that individuals and businesses with greater means have gone even further? Well, more Dereks are gradually popping up throughout the Caribbean, but generally the answer is no.

The Caribbean appears to be the ideal location for renewable energy development. Petroleum resources are scarce and renewable resources such as solar, wind and geothermal are plentiful. Energy prices are high as there is no opportunity for economy of scale benefits that large land masses enjoy. Added to that, climate change impacts pose a major threat to the region’s small-island economies that are largely dependent on tourism and agriculture.

Despite this, most Caribbean

nations still use imported diesel or oil to generate 90-100% of their energy. So what has been the barrier to using renewables?

Many people have pointed to the cost factor. Small economies mean that in most cases countries have difficulty in financing renewable energy projects that require high upfront capital. Also, regulations have been slow in setting clear rules for grid interconnection. These factors have led some international investors and developers to be cautious about entering the Caribbean market.

We can learn from Derek’s example and build on local talent.

Indigenous grassroots knowledge paired with the experience and access to capital of larger local and international companies would be a winning combination.

The advantage of building on local interest and indigenous talent can be seen in Jamaica. The late Raymond Wright was trained as a petroleum geologist and was head of the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ) in the 1970s.

His interest in wind energy was piqued while searching for areas with suitable geological characteristics for petroleum development. It soon became evident that Jamaica had a significant wind resource. Over time Wright shifted the focus of his energy development to renewables and PCJ took on a leading role in the establishment of the Wigton Wind Farm, which now generates about 0.1 % of Jamaica’s energy.

Jamaica is keen to build on Wright’s legacy. Expansion of the wind farm is under way and Jamaica plans to increase renewable energy use further, with a goal to reach 20% by 2030, as part of its Vision 2030 policy. There are plans for 20 MW of PV solar to be installed to compliment the wind farm.

In addition, Jamaica is offering benefits for any company or individual selling electricity to the grid from a renewable source.

Back in Derek’s home island of Barbados, there is a story of another pioneer, the late Professor Oliver Headley. An organic chemist by training, he became a leading international voice for solar energy development. He got into developing renewable energy in the 1960s after a PhD student colleague challenged him to put the sun that was beating down on them daily to productive use. His pioneering efforts helped propel Barbados to a leader in solar water heater use in the western hemisphere.

There are three solar water heater companies in Barbados and more than half of households have heaters installed, which can be written off against income tax. This policy has been in place since 1974. The story goes that the then prime minister installed a solar water heater on his house and was so impressed with the results that he put the economic incentives in place.

Barbados is keen to expand the success of solar water heaters to solar photovoltaic with the introduction of the “renewable energy rider”. This allows people installing solar photovoltaics to sell their power back to the grid at 1.6 times the usual charge. As a result of this incentive, there are now more than 300 housetop PV systems in the island, and that is expanding. There is every possibility now that we will see more Dereks by 2020 and beyond, Barbados has set itself an ambitious goal of 29% of energy to be produced from renewable sources by 2029.

A few other Caribbean countries have seen success with renewable energy. The Dutch Caribbean has led the way in terms of wind energy, with Curacao, Bonaire and Aruba all having significant generation capacity.

The political connection to the Netherlands has helped with technical expertise and there has been economic support from the Continue on Page 14

SEPTEMBER 2015

Jamaica: Man walks into police station and puts on cop’s uniform and vest The Jamaica Observer story reveal that on Wednesday September 4, a mentally challenged man was able to gain access to the police quarters at the Hunt Bay Police Barrack.

Apparently, he took a nap, and after waking up, he dressed himself in police uniform and bullet-proof vest.

A police source told the Jamaica Observer the man, who resides in Kingston 20, went unnoticed for hours and was only identified when he asked one of the officers at the station for $20. He was later apprehended by a senior officer at the station, but was later released without charge after a meeting with family members who informed the police that he has mental challenges.

of that nature took place and at this time the matter is being investigated by the Inspectorate of the Constabulary,” said a senior officer at the station.

The officer said a number of changes have also been implemented at the station since the incident to ensure that there is not a repeat of the breakdown of security procedures.

The changes will see improved vetting of people entering and leaving the facility to ensure that unauthorized individuals are prevented from getting past the guardroom.

Source: The Jamaica Observer

The Inspectorate of the Constabulary (IOC) has launched an investigation to determine the root of this incident. “We can confirm that an incident

DID YOU KNOW

Gifted and Talented Students

The State of Texas defines gifted and talented students as a child or youth who perform at or shows the potential for performing at a remarkably high level of accomplishment when compared to others of the same age, experience, or environment and who:

• • •

•

The Vanguard Program?

The Vanguard program is designed for G/T students in grades K-12 who excel in general intellectual ability in combination with creative/productive thinking and/or leadership ability.

• •

Exhibits high performance capability in an intellectual, creative, or artistic area; Possesses an unusual capacity for leadership; or Excels in a specific academic field.

How do I know a student is gifted?

It is important to note that there are not one or two characteristics that an educator can point to in order to say that a student is gifted. It is a combination of characteristics. Some signs that a student might be gifted include, but are not limited to: •

Extraordinary memory compared to peers

• • •

Highly curious Highly creative Exhibits abstract reasoning and problem solving skills Draws inferences, grasps underlying principles Initiates projects Discusses things in detail, elaborates

Vanguard programs provide services that are comprehensive, structured, sequenced, and appropriately challenging.

HISD curriculum is differentiated by modifying the depth, complexity, and pacing of the general school program, utilizing higher-level thinking skills, and developing independent research skills focusing on advanced-level products.

SEPTEMBER 2015

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN Page 13

HEALTH & WELLNESS OVERWEIGHT CHILDREN DOUBLED Is Your Child Overweight?

Source: UTMB Health In the last two to three decades, the number of overweight children has doubled. Almost one child in five is considered overweight. Obesity can lead to risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure, sleep apnea, orthopedic problems, liver disease, asthma, as well as low self-esteem and depression.

The likely cause of the increase in the amount of overweight children is more than likely the same reason that adult obesity is on the rise: overeating and lack of physical activity.

The following are a few suggestions to help your family start a program to improve eating habits and increase physical activity.

Focus on gradual changes in both eating and exercise patterns, rather than enforcing immediate changes.

Encourage your child to exercise. Make physical activity part of your family’s daily routine.

Children should exercise for at least one hour every day. Plan family activities that involve exercising, such as biking, hiking, walking in the neighborhood or washing the car.

Limit the amount of time spent watching television and playing video games.

Supply healthy snacks, such as yogurt, fruits and vegetables, to help your child learn to make

Good Source of Resistance Starch Resistant starch is a type of starch that cannot be broken down by enzymes in your digestive system and, therefore, acts more like a fiber than a starch. Green bananas contain a high amount of resistant starch, according to a 2010 arti-

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, approximately 10,000 children are treated a year for lawn mower-related injuries. Many of these injuries occur in older children and teens. However, small children are at risk of injury also.

Lawn mowers have the potential to cause serious injuries.

The blades are sharp enough to slice and even amputate and objects that get caught in the blades fly out with great force.

Though doing yard work together may be a fun family activity, children should not be around when you are mowing.

Some tips to prevent lawn mower-related injuries include:

what your child did at school that day, etc.

• Read the owner’s manual of the mower before operating it.

Provide balanced meals when eating at home and limit the amount of times that your child eats fast food per week.

Don’t force your child to eat if he or she is not hungry.

Involve the entire family, rather than just focusing on an overweight child, when it comes to changes in eating habits and physical activity.

• Remember, a riding lawn mower is not a toy or a vehicle.

Children should never play on or ride on a lawn mower, even if it is on a parents’ lap.

Let your child help you plan and prepare meals with you. If your child helps decide what’s for dinner, they will gradually learn about nutrition and may be more willing to try new foods that they helped you make.

Be supportive and let your child know that they are okay no matter what they weigh.

Your child may realize that he or she has a weight problem and therefore, needs your support and acceptance.

Try not to use food as a punishment or reward. For example, don’t offer dessert as a reward for finishing a meal. This teaches your child that sweets are more valuable than other foods.

The goal of promoting a family eating and exercise program is to get healthier, rather than to reduce your child’s weight.

Children should not be put on restrictive diets because they need calories to develop properly, but changing eating and exercise patterns helps children “grow” into their weight without adding extra pounds

healthy food choices.

Give your child water or milk rather than soda or other drinks high in sugar.

Encourage your child to eat slowly and eat together as a family, if possible. Try to make mealtime a time for sharing

Health Benefits of Green Bananas Although the green banana is simply an unripened yellow banana, it has different uses.

While you can eat the yellow banana immediately after peeling, the green banana is best eaten cooked, either boiled or fried. Nutritionally, the green banana is a good source of fiber, vitamins and minerals, and contains a starch that may help control blood sugar, manage weight and lower blood cholesterol levels.

Lawn Mower Safety

Source: UTMB Health

cle published in “Pacific Health Dialog.” Including foods high in resistant starch in your diet, like the green banana, may reduce your risk of diabetes by aiding in blood sugar control, and heart disease by helping to lower blood cholesterol levels.

Good Source of Fiber In addition to the resistant starch, green bananas are also

a good source of fiber. A 1-cup serving of boiled green bananas contains 3.6 grams of fiber, meeting 14 percent of your daily value. The percent daily value is based on a 2,000-calorie diet for a healthy adult. Fiber can also reduce risk of diabetes and heart disease. In addition, fiber in food slows digestion, helping you feel full longer, aiding in weight control.

• Make sure your child stays a safe distance away from the mower while you are using it.

• Power mowers should come equipped with a control that stops the mower if the handle is released • Make sure that all shields are in place on your mower.

• Children under 14 years-old should not be allowed on riding mowers and children under 12 should not use push mowers.

Adults and children that are old enough to mow should wear sturdy non-slip shoes (no sandals or bare feet), pants and protective eyewear while mowing.

• Debris, such as toys and rocks, should be removed from

the yard. If run over by a lawn mower, these items can cause serious injuries when they fly from under the mower blades.

• Turn off your mower and wait for the blades to stop spinning before crossing gravel paths or roads or removing the grass catcher.

• Don’t operate your mower in bad weather, mow on wet grass or if there is not enough daylight to see.

• Never pull a mower backwards or mow in reverse.

• Mowers should be started and refueled outside, not in a garage or shed. The motor should be turned off and cooled to refuel.

• Blades should be cleaned or adjusted by an adult and the mower should be turned off with the spark plug removed or disconnected. Move the mower from the spot where you refueled to avoid igniting gasoline vapors that may linger in the air.

• Never leave a running mower unattended. If the mower has an electric start, do not leave the key left in the switch.

• Keep a firm grip on the handle of the mower with both hands at all times.

• Store your mower in a safe place, where your child cannot get to it, such as in a locked shed. If you cannot lock it up, teach your child that it is not a toy and not to be played on or around.

• Teach your child that mower blades are dangerous and can cause serious injury.

• Be aware of where your children are while you are mowing and do not allow them near where you are mowing

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

Page 14

SEPTEMBER 2015

COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE Mount Bethel House of Prayer in Houston 6818 Cullen Boulevard Houston, TX 77021‎

Spiritual Baptist Church Mother Kathleen Joseph

(713) 842-2990

From Page 7 Dominica since 2000. Most recently we have upgraded the Douglas-Charles Airport, developed the highway leading from this airport to Roseau, and upgraded the Roseau to Portsmouth highway,” he explained. TS Erika took a toll on them.

Prime Minister Skerrit pointed to climate change as the fundamental problem to small islands around the world saying that they are liable to suffer immensely from rising sea levels, tsunamis and other natural disasters. The excessive rain of TS Erika caused many waterways to overflow and created landslides, which swamp communities across the island.

In his address, Skerrit is calling on all Dominicans national at home and in the Diaspora to start a campaign to raise funds and make donations to bring immediate relief to their homeland.

“I would also like to reach out to members of the Dominican Diaspora to make a special effort to raise funds to send to relatives

and friends at home, as soon as possible. Having such money circulating in Dominica is guaranteed to boost the local economy. I also want to make a national appeal to member nations of the OECS and CARICOM, friends of Dominica across the World, as well as regional and international donor agencies to help in whatever way they can.”

The melancholic prime minister called for a national response to this disaster, “A New Beginning for Dominica.”

To that light, he invited all 21 Elected Parliamentarians to attend a special meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers to develop the path forward for the recovery of Dominica.

“I want us to sit as patriots to draw up a strategy for relieving immediate suffering, rebuilding our homes and infrastructure, diversifying our economy, and generating the wealth to improve the standard of living and quality of life of our people.

Dominicans we can do this!

Dominicans, we must do this!

Dominicans we shall rebuild Dominica!”

From Page 5 Immigration

of the tourist visa and possible expedited removal from the U.S. The U.S. Customs and Border After all, this visa is granted for Patrol Officer determines the short, occasional visits only. length of stay and this is recorded on the Form I-94/Arrival and As we enter into the Fall Season Departure Record. Remaining in and 2015 marches closer to an the U.S. longer than the permit- end, make putting your immigrated time may lead to unlawful tion affairs a priority. Until next presence in the U.S, result in the time, walk good. denial of entry on the next visit and possible revocation of the Until next time, walk good! tourist visa.

There are those folks who are aware of the maximum timeline and choose to stay here for the entire period on each visit. They should be reminded that frequent trips to the U.S. in which they remain for the maximum allowable period on each visit, may ultimately lead to the revocation

The analysis and suggestions offered in this article do not create a lawyer-client relationship, is for information only, and are not a substitute for personalized representation that is essential to every case. Latania Mena is an Immigration Attorney and a Caribbean National based in the Southwest Houston, Texas.

From Page 9 Tribute...

Reggae, but if they want more of it. I am talking about old school reggae… artists like the Mighty Diamonds, Toots and the Maytals, John Holt, Gregory Isaac, Dennis Brown, and Beres Hammond. The guys sang about

culture. When you look at Freddie McGregor, the Mighty Diamonds, and Steel Pulse, they sing about things that happens every day. That’s real reggae to me.

That’s who we are paying tribute to people; some went far too early,” Mike concluded.

From Page 12 ...Energy Dutch government. Jamaica has been able to build on the knowhow of Dutch Caribbean countries in their own wind development.

Nevis, St Lucia and Dominica have all sought to develop geothermal energy projects, which is another source of renewable energy that has potential in the Caribbean. The Organization of American States and the World Bank have provided capacity and financing support.

It is encouraging to see developments such as these. The groundwork has been laid From Page 7 St. Kitts and Nevis

States welcomes St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to enhancing global financial transparency by improving international tax compliance. Today’s signing marks a significant development in our nations’ From Page 8 John Henry...

John Henry is known nationally and internationally for his culinary expertise. In 1989, John was asked to personally handle the presidential inaugural dinner of President George H. W. Bush (Bush 41). He put together a team of 19 chefs that traveled to Washington to barbecue for President Bush and his 20,000 guests who attended the celebration. Later, John accompanied the President to Beijing, China and prepared his barbecue.

With these credentials, John started his business of producing spices and marinades. “If I can do it for Rice then I can do it for myself,” he said. “I did what I had to do to generate the interest in the business and

through efforts of pioneers such as Wright and Headley and there are more grassroots leaders like Derek emerging.

But the efforts of individual champions cannot be successful without policies, legislation and economic incentives, which governments are slowly but surely putting in place. Having these policies on the books without recognizing and supporting local businesses or providing an environment through which champions can come to the fore is likely to impede the progress of this spectacularly beautiful but vulnerable region in developing a flourishing green economy. collaborative efforts to combat offshore tax evasion- an objective that mutually benefits our two countries. FATCA is yet one more example of the deep and substantial ways in which the economies of St. Kitts and Nevis and the United States are linked.” make it happen Houston. Once we got the business going in Houston, we decided to go national. Now, we have over 700 customers we supply our spices to... we are in every state in the union including Alaska and Hawaii.”

Even then, from his business inception, John’s concept was to always give back to his community. His eyes lit up when he proudly said, “I started this business with four convicts, because I taught at Harris County jail… I want to show them that despite what happened, someone cared,” he said.

But, that’s not all. As part of the business promotions, he host an annual cook-off. And as a result of its success, John Henry

From Page 12 Lives Really Matter

in our best interest to ignore or be unaware of the merits in the arguments. And further, while some may say that it takes a long time to change anything in “city hall” or in “Washington;” don’t forget that the issue of the Confederate Flag was changed almost overnight, after being in “file thirteen” for decades.

The country is changing, even as we speak. And we’re not here as “visiting tourists.” In addition, neither are we here simply to work. We ought to be acting like we are truly a part of this great American experience.

This may require us to learn more about what it means to do it “the American way,” which doesn’t make any immigrant any less of who we were before “coming to America!”

Let’s continue in pursuit of our collective and individual dreams as long as we’re here, as we also move forward with support for our respective needs back in our countries of birth. created The John Henry’s Food Products College Scholarship Foundation. Its mission is to generate, receive and administer funds to students of diverse cultures and lower economic backgrounds which will provide opportunities for self-empowerment through education within the culinary industry.

This year, the annual cookoff will be held on October 23 and 24 at 7676 North Freeway, Houston, Texas 77037.

As the John Henry’s Scholarship Foundation is a non-profit 501 © (3) organization and therefore all gifts are tax-deductible.

The event is being promoted by Kalpana Promotions

One Love CARIBBEAN is published monthly.

All materials published in One Love CARIBBEAN is Copyrighted by One Love CARIBBEAN and may not be reproduced without our written permission. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer:

One Love CARIBBEAN is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions express herein do not necessarily reflect the publisher.

One Love CARIBBEAN assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscript, photographs, and other material unless accompanied by a self addressed stamped envelope.

SEPTEMBER 2015

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN Page 15

ISLAND STYLEE

ULTURE

JOKES | SATIRE | POEMS

HOW TO GET RID OF A CAT

ISLAND RECIPES THE ART OF CARIBBEAN COOKING

Bananas Cookings Green Banana and Saltfish

Banana Crunch Cake Ingredients: 6 oz butter 6 oz castor sugar 3 eggs finely grated rind and juice of 1 lime 1 cup crushed roasted peanuts 4 oz flour 4 oz self raising flour 3 ripe bananas 1 tsp vanilla & almond essence 1 tsp grated cinnamon and nutmeg 1 cup milk Pinch of salt pineapple pieces and cherry pieces shredded dry coconut

Beat butter until soft, then add sugar.

Beat in eggs, lime juice, and lime rind, and add to mixture. Mash bananas with a fork and add to mixture. Add cinnamon, nutmeg and both essences. Add flours and salt. Continue beating. Add the crushed peanuts, coconut, pineapple and cherry pieces. Add milk and allow to mix for 2 minutes.

Method: Place green banana in a pot of water add oil and a pinch of salt. Boil until the banana skin changes to a dark color and the bananas are tender. Peel bananas and place to the side.

Green Banana and Saltfish

Pour mixture into loaf pan. Sprinkle some coconut on top, then bake in center of the over for about 1 hour.

Boiled Green Banana

The next day, he decided to drive the cat 40 blocks away. He put the beast out and headed home.

Driving up his driveway, there was the cat. He kept taking the cat further and Ingredients the cat would always beat him home.

1 hand of bananas 1 1/2 lb boneless saltfish At last, he decided to drive a great dis3 pimento peppers, chopped tance away, turn right, then left, past 1 small onion, chopped bridges, then make more right and left 2 cloves garlic, chopped turns until he was sure he was a safe 1 carrot, grated distance and left the cat there.

3 med. tomatoes, chopped 1/2 large sweet pepper Hours later the man calls home to his 1 pinch salt. 1/2 tbsp. oil wife, “Sherry, is the cat there?” “Why? 1/2 cup water Yes, he is here. Why do you ask?” asked the wife.

Banana Crunch Cake

Directions: Pre heat over to gas 325 degree. Lightly grease a 2 lb loaf pan

A Jamaican man absolutely hated his wife’s cat and decided to get rid of it one day by driving 20 blocks from his home and leaving it at the park. As he was getting home, the cat was walking up the driveway.

Angry and frustrated the man answered, “put di likkle dutty puss pon the damn phone. Mi need directions cause mi laass to baxide...

VACATION IN THE CARIBBEAN

Boil the saltfish for about twenty minutes. Taste saltfish for salt content. If too A lady goes on vacation alone to the salty repeat previous step. Clean and Caribbean island of Martinique wishing her husband had been able to join break into smaller pieces. her. Upon arriving, she meets a black man, and after a night of passionate In an iron pot, saute the onion and garlic lovemaking, she asks him, “What over a medium flame until cooked. is your name?” “I can’t tell you!” the black man says.

Add the pimento peppers, sweet pepper, carrot and tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes. Every night they meet and every night Add the saltfish and mix thoroughly. Add she asks him again. What his name? water and let simmer for 1 minute.

He always responds the same, he Serve over the green bananas.

cannot tell her.

On her last night there, she asks again, “Can you please tell me your name?”

“I can’t because you will make fun of me!” the black man says.

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“There is no reason for me to laugh at you,” the lady says. “Fine, my name is Snow” the black man replies. And the lady bursts into laughter, and the black man gets mad and says, “I knew you would make fun of it.”

The lady replied, “It’s my husband that won’t believe me when I tell him that I played with 10 inches of Snow every day in the Caribbean!”

Register to Bake Good

Currant Roll Cake Coconut Drop

CRAZY BALDHEADS

By Bob Marley

Them crazy, them crazy We gonna chase those crazy Baldheads out of town; Chase those crazy baldheads Out of our town.

I’n’I build a cabin; I’n’I plant the corn; Didn’t my people before me Slave for this country?

Now you look me with that scorn, Then you eat up all my corn.

We gonna chase those crazy Chase them crazy Chase those crazy baldheads out of town!

Build your penitentiary, we build your schools, Brainwash education to make us the fools.

Hate is your reward for our love, Telling us of your God above.

We gonna chase those crazy Chase those crazy bunkheads Chase those crazy baldheads out of the yard!

Here comes the conman Coming with his con plan.

We won’t take no bribe; We’ve got (to) stay alive.

TRINI CAR ACCIDENT

A Trini woman and a Trini man are involved in a car accident; it’s a bad one.

Both of their cars are totally demolished but amazingly neither of them are hurt. After they crawl out of their cars, the woman says, “So you’re a Trini man; that’s interesting. I’m a Trini woman.

Wow, just look at our cars! There’s nothing left, but fortunately we are unhurt. This must be a sign from God that we should meet and be friends and live together in peace for the rest of our days.” Flattered, the man replied, “Oh yes, I agree with you completely!

This must be a sign from God!” The Trini woman continued, “And look at this, here’s another miracle. My car is completely demolished but this bottle of wine didn’t break. Surely God wants us to drink this wine and celebrate our good fortune.”

Then she hands the bottle to the Trini man. The man nods his head in agreement, opens it and drinks half the bottle and then hands it back to the woman. The woman takes the bottle, immediately puts the cap back on, and hands it back to the man. The man asks, “Aren’t you having any?” The woman replies, “No. I think I’ll just wait for the police.”

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