The Barbados Gala 2022 Magazine and NY Consulate General Year in Review

Raising the bar

Mackie Holder Consul General of Barbados at New York

You are here, so take a bow. You are part of history. And we thank you.

Even by previous standards and great expectations for this year’s event, no one foresaw the awesome response to the Barbados Gala 2022.

On the strength of the Save the Date, persons started purchasing tickets. In some four days – 200 early bird tickets were sold. Unprecedented!

And so, it went. And so we are here, More than 400 of us to enjoy yet another spectacular annual gala.

Since 2019, it was determined that the Barbados Gala should be an event apart. A true representation of Barbados, from cuisine to entertainment, and at the kind of place – not your every weekend hangout – that itself would be wow. In the end, an event that would be reverent of Independence Day and the Republic anniversary and one Barbadians and friends would wish to dress to the nines for and be left ready to party next year.

The event in Staten Island established the desired tone. A sold out night at the Vanderbilt, a venue on the beach, brought out Barbadians from all over. They were thrilled by the ambience, live jazz and R&B, and kitchen magic from three of Barbados’ international chefs.

We regrouped last year, after the Covid-19 hiatus of 2020, in Freeport. We introduced violinist Wesley Morris and Edwin Yearwood was, well, “the General”. Chef Trevon Stoute produced

a feast, including an exquisite tasty soup. And the scene was set for this year.

But the importance of the New York gala is far greater than the success of the event itself. The significance is that it has inspired others, associations and individuals, to improve their events. This is better for the image of Barbadian communities and the experience of supporters.

This gala season has seen more upscale and different venues in play, more elaborate decorations and a definite move to have more entertainment, and a wider variety of it.

As an all-encompassing tribute to Barbados and Barbadians, it is fitting and necessary that the Barbados Gala lead the way.

So yes, there are awards. Yes, there is some speaking. Yes, it has a price. Because it is a special event. Unmatched in any way.

That is why we all are here. To share in a special time in a special place in a special way.

Let us continue to come together to cherish and share all that we have, remembering there is strength and success in unity.

Enjoy to the fullest.

Happy Independence

our team! Meet The faces of BTMI USA

Director, United States of America eusis@visitbarbados.org

Eusi Skeete

Pattrell Hassanein Personal Assistant pattrellh@visitbarbados.org

Deborah Millington Business Development Officer deborahm@visitbarbados.org

Seymour Bailey Business Development Officer seymourb@visitbarbados.org

Elijah Cadogan Business Development Officer elijahc@visitbarbados.org

Tenisha Holder Senior Business Development Officer tenishah@visitbarbados.org

Jason Yearwood Business Development Officer jasony@visitbarbados.org

Fellow Barbadians, it is with great pride that I wish you a Happy 56th Independence as we celebrate our first year as a Republic! It truly is a remarkable time to celebrate our nationhood.

As we commemorate everything that makes us Barbadian, I am reminded of the words of the national anthem, reminding us that we are “craftsmen of our fate”. From world renowned culinary offerings to the perfection of centuries-old rum, Barbadians continue to make an indelible impact both at home and across the globe.

As members of our Barbadian family abroad, you continue to answer the call to be ambassadors of our great nation and we want to thank you for continuing to choose Barbados, for telling your friends and colleagues and for proudly carrying the Barbados banner wherever you go.

As we endeavor to strengthen tourism’s impact on the Barbados economy, we remain cognizant of the responsibility entrusted to us by the people of Barbados to craft an industry that is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to all Barbadians, our extended family and our guests.

As we reintroduce the world to the

Experience the Intricacies of Barbados

Eusi Skeete, BTMI Director, USA

intricacies of Barbados, I am happy to say that we issued an invitation to the world, and they resoundingly answered yes! With the expansion and enhancements to our tourism product, our team in the US are equipped and ready to showcase the best of what Barbados has to offer!

Be assured that the entire tourism team is committed to ensuring that Barbados is well positioned to be the preferred destination for the most discerning traveler. It’s undeniable that Barbados has a unique magic that no other nation can boast of – our people – the true essence of the Barbados experience.

Whether you’re returning home for a special celebration, holiday, business or simply to get a taste of home for the weekend, I’m delighted to share that our flights from New York JFK and Boston on JetBlue Airways as well as Charlotte and Miami on American Airlines continue to grow and our seasonal nonstop routes from Washington Dulles and Newark New Jersey on United Airlines are back! We’ve got our sights set on increasing accessibility to the island from new gateways across the US as we seek to make it easier and more affordable for you to make multiple visits a year.

In Barbados, the beach is just the beginning; we are excited to share the new exciting product developments and enhancements on island. Tantalize your tastebuds with exquisite dishes courtesy of the newly opened La Cabane South – located at

Hilton Hotel, Oro Restaurant found at O2 Beach Club and Spa and Positano, located at The House, by Marriott. Be on the lookout for the new Sam Lord’s Castle, a Wyndham Grand Resort coming in Spring 2023. And enjoy a familiar favorite, Harrison’s Cave, with exciting new additions including rum tastings, ziplines, suspended walkways, a dry slide, challenge course and a bird aviary!

Finally, as proud ambassadors of Barbados, you must enjoy the benefits of home! Get in the know with our Barbados Family and Friends, (BFF), program which is designed to ensure that you are equipped with the knowledge of all the great things to see and do in Barbados and, of course, be rewarded for sharing Barbados with your friends and family. If you’re not a member of the BFF program, please visit www.barbadosfamilyandfriends. com and join our community on Facebook, Barbados Friends & FamilyUSA.

So, as we once again celebrate our season of national pride, I want to thank you for your continued commitment to Barbados’ success. With hope for the future, we are delighted to call you family and an extension of our team and look forward to everything that we can accomplish together.

On behalf of the entire team at Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, we wish you and your family a blessed Independence and the very best for the year ahead.

Elan Trotman

In the first week of September, he presented the Head Start Music programme in Barbados with BD$20 000, inclusive of a $12 000 cheque to the first scholarship winner, Daniel Harvey to undertake a five-week programme at the Berklee School of Music Aspire Summer Music Intensive. The Head Start Programme tutors children between eight and 11. It also provides instruments and backpacks to students in the programme.

The money came from Trotman’s Never Lose Your Drive Foundation, which was funded by proceeds from the golf tournament and silent auctions of the Barbados Jazz Excursion and Golf Weekend, conceptualized by Elan. The seven-year old event is an all-immersive experience that attracts some of the world’s top artists such as Jeff Lober and Jeffrey Osborne and, on average, 300 visitors.

The Boston-based instrumentalist, composer and music teacher received a Barbados National Development Scholarship in 1997 to study at Berklee.

The former Harrisonian, who holds a degree in Music Education, taught music for more than 10 years in the Cambridge, Revere and Boston public schools. In 2002, he became a touring jazz saxophonist and has recorded and performed with some of world’s top musicians, including Michael McDonald,

Roberta Flack, Jonathan Butler and Peabo Bryson.

A huge sports fan, he has performed the US National Anthem on numerous occasions for top sports teams and has provided entertainment for many celebrities and their events.

Elan, who has gained plaudits for his blending of Caribbean rhythms and incorporation of steel pan in his wide repertoire, has topped the Billboard Radio Charts more than ten times as a solo artist with songs like Heaven in Your Eyes feat. Brian Simpson, Tradewinds feat. Peter White, Master Blaster, and As feat. Lin Rountree.

His CDs include Memories: The Debut, Let’s Have a Good Time, A Reggae Christmas, Love and Sax, Tropicality, Live and Uncut, Double Take, Brighter Days Ahead, Electro Sax and Christmas in Rio.

Elan Trotman is a virtuoso Jazz Saxophonist, philanthropist and an unpaid Barbados tourism ambassador.

Adrian Clarke

Steel Pannist for all Occasions

Aversatile pan player across the Tri-state and beyond, Adrian Clarke has played to large audiences at private venues and music events to church events and birthday parties. His website, Panoccasions, is full of rave reviews of his professionalism and dexterity.

His pan playing has allowed him to meet celebrities including the late composer Irving Burgie, who wrote Barbados National Anthem and most of the first million selling album, Harry Belafonte’s Calypso, and music legend Billy Ocean.

Adrian, who grew up in Barbados and attended Harrison College, started playing pan after immigrating to New York in the mid-1970s. Mostly a solo performer, he has a vast repertoire. Adrian’s recordings can be found on Soundcloud and he has produced two CDs, Expressions In Steel, the Many Moods of Pan and Sweeter This Time.

So ever-present is Adrian, that many are surprised that pan playing is not his full-time job. He is actually the history making Director of Prospect Park Tennis

Center, Brooklyn, NY.

A tennis player at 12, he was good enough to join the pro circuit. While teaching English at a junior high school, he was invited to assist at the Prospect Park Center, and that led to a full time position 12 years ago. Last year, in February, he moved from tennis pro to become the first black to head the tennis center.

Adrian, who holds a BA and two Masters degrees, and is also a short story writer, is married to Sonia.

Lil Rick

Soca Garu, Crop Over Giant, Barbados Cultural Icon

Hit after hit, after hit – that’s Lil Rick, Barbados’ most versatile and popular entertainer, a DJ, writer, producer, rhythm creator and the embodiment of Barbados idiom.

The soca garu, Crop Over giant and Barbados cultural icon’s dizzying amount of hits, live wire stage shows and numerous monikers - Hypa Dawg, Boardface, the Chihuahua Businessman - have made this prodigy the most dominant Barbadian artiste over the last two plus decades.

Fast or slow, bashment or sweet soca, Rick’s productions are invariably the songs of the day, huge in fetes.

A DJ from 12, spinning ballroom tunes, he was dominant on the Barbados dub scene. At 16, he opened for Jamaican dancehall king Beenie Man and sealed his status with an opening for Buju Banton and Mad

Lil Rick’s national popularity began building with songs like Glamour Girl (Dollar) Wine and You Got Talk Fuh Me. But it was his entry into the soca world that led to his explosion, leading to performances throughout the world and collaborations with some of the biggest stars. From 1977, when he dropped Bumper Inspector and Hard Wine, he has been starring.

In 1998 Lil Rick won his first Party Monarch Title with Down Behind the

Truck and has won five more since. He has won four Tune of the Crop competitions, the Bashment Soca and one Sweet Soca. He has recorded back to back wins and multiple wins in a year – in 2018, for instance, he won four of the seven titles up for grabs. He has even placed fourth in the Pick of the Crop Finals. And he kept surprising, with songs like Til Morning Come, Monsta Winer and the favourite Be My Girl, a romantic raga soca track.

The artiste has produced albums including Challenge (1997), We Surviving (1999), More Hype (2003) Spontaneous (2005) and The Crave (2008), I Like Myself (2012) and Lil Rick HD and Friends, (2013).

Unequalled on stage, very few major events do not include the dynamo and his Dis is Rick concert has become one of the top events of Crop Over season. Lil Rick is also a sought after radio personality, driving marketing for many top brands, and political campaigns in and out of Barbados. His Sunday School virtual DJ show during Covid-19 added to his fan base.

Now in the music business for more than 30 years with almost 25 in the soca arena, Lil Rick has also built something of a family dynasty. His elder son, known as the Unda Dawg, and his children, the Hypa Kidz, have carved out their own followings.

The complete opposite of his stage persona at home, Lil Rick is married to Caragh.

Lew Drayton

Music Legend, Barbadian Icon, Spouge Master

Can’t Keep a Good Man Down are all part of the spouge legacy of Lew Drayton. Equally remarkable, at 77, Lew Drayton is still a captivating performer, his voice is as powerful and melodious as ever.

From Parris Gap, Westbury Road, St. Michael, he was an immediate hit when he started singing in church at six years. The Wesley Hall and Richmond (now St. Leonards) graduate never had a “real” job, as he was determined to make it in music.

and then toured the region.

The Draytons Two also secured a gig in New York at the Manhattan Club and also toured Boston. They also played the Biltmore Ballroom and Madison Square Garden.

Other spouge recordings followed, including River Come Down, Love and Emotion and It was Written Down, as well as R & B songs.

After spouge fizzled, Lew recorded an outstanding version of Whiter Shade of Pale with the Staccatoes. Unfortunately, the group disintegrated quickly.

He has been called An Elder Statesman in the Parliament of Barbadian Music; A songbird; A master of the Spouge Beat; A Soul King.

He is Llewellyn – Lew – “Zorro” Drayton, who defined Barbados’ indigenous music, spouge, along with Desmond “Fowl” Weekes as the Draytons Two, with the release of Raw Spouge, in1973.

The album remains the only one ever totally featuring spouge, the creation of Barbadian Jackie Open. Drink Milk, 6 and & 7 Books of Moses, Roe Boat, Tighten Up and

He first formed the Lew Drayton Three with friends Lew “Jiggs” Kirton, who passed away earlier this year, and Weekes. This became the Draytons Two after Jiggs immigrated to the USA. The two singers then performed with the Silhouettes, when Lew was about 18, before forming their own band, Everyday People at the beginning of the 1970s.

It was at this time that Jackie Open, a very close friend of Lew, developed spouge in Jamaica. Because of the friendship, Lew latched on to spouge.

The duo’s first recordings of spouge were I Need Your Love, written with Aiden Clarke, and Two Late Shall Be Your Cry, released as a single. Then Raw Spouge came and, as is said, the rest is history.

The album exploded through the Caribbean. The group made their first overseas trip, to Guyana, performing for about a month with Des Glasford and the Combo 7

Drayton immigrated to Baltimore, USA in 1989. He worked in a restaurant before moving to Connecticut, joining Alvin and Company, where he worked for 30 years before retiring three years ago.

All the time, Lew kept performing, appearing at the biggest Barbadian gatherings including Barbados Day in Canarsie, Brooklyn, NY, and on various shows, with Desmond joining him from Barbados as necessary. The two split about a decade ago.

Drayton returned to recording in 2000 with Evelyn and has recently recorded Give It Up. He is married to Maria.

Phil Brathwaite

The Voice

If any singer were deserving of breakaway, international success, on sheer talent alone, it would be Phil Brathwaite, known as The Voice.

From Ellerton, St. George, he began singing in school, Washington High and Presentation College, with friends. After school, he started work at Chefette Restaurant and made his first stab at a music career when he entered the Richard Stoute Teen Talent Contest in 1979 at 17. He tied for fourth place.

Phil then auditioned successfully for Barbados’ top band at the time, Wendy Alleyne and the Dynamics, and performed with them for three years as a full-time entertainer. He then formed High Level with some young musicians, including David Burnette and Lloyd Burnett, and performed at hotels. The band later became Crossfire (Krosfyah) after Phil left for New York in 1986.

In the Big Apple, he performed at the Apollo, the Supper Club in Manhattan, The Steve Talk House, Long Island and had his own show at Sweet Waters in Manhattan. He won a competition and became the opening act for all the big stars who appeared at Christopher’s, a club.

Phil also secured an audition with Motown but, for reasons other than a lack of talent, was not signed. He, however, shared stages with some of the big artistes of the day - Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes, Evelyn Champagne King, Joe, The Platters and Shannon.

Phil has recorded five originals, including Is This the Way, Dance with Me, Why did you Go and Shauna Brown. More recently, he performed with the band Majestic in the Tri-State and Boston, Massachusetts.

Manager of a Brooklyn store for 32 years, Phil is married to Jennifer and has four children.

DJ Spider Rhythm Chief

DJ Spider has transcended from a leading New York City nightclub disc jockey into an internationally recognized music producer. The Brooklyn native has studied the music of various genres including Afrobeats, HipHop, Dancehall Reggae, Soca, and Kompa. Learning how to rock a party as a DJ was foundational to his growth as a music producer.

He has curated musical playlists and appears live on internet radio stations such as Music Choice, Sirius XM & Pandora. He is currently a DJ and on-air personality with the online radio show TeamSoca.com live on Wednesdays from 7 - 8PM and Dash Radio App_Taste on Sundays from 7 - 8PM. He has been a guest DJ numerous times for Sirius XM Shade 45 station for #DaUnion Hour with celebrity host DJ Superstar Jay and holds affiliations with the College Club Kings and DaUnion DJ collectives.

The DJ/producer in the music industry has gained international recognition with countless selfproduced riddims that have hit the Top 10 Caribbean music charts.

In 2016, he produced the One O’Clock riddim which won the Bashment Soca Competition in Barbados with the single Tek Off Something by recording artist Stiffy. Its international success continued with the hit single Bang Bim by soca artist Marzville. Bang Bim has over 12 million hits on YouTube and counting.

In 2019, DJ Spider teamed up with artist/writer Problem Child winning yet another competition with King

Bubba She Always Bend Ova.

In 2021, he joined forces with music engineer, producer and singer GBMNUTRON and wrote the hit crossover song Down Deh on his Uncle Joe Riddim. The riddim, which blends the upbeat vibe of soca music with the sweet kompa melodies, quickly dominated the international music charts and Caribbean party scene.

Last year as well, soca artist, Lyrikal teamed up with DJ Spider on the Brunch Fete Riddim and instantly took over the streets of New York City,

(NYC), with Fete Cyah Over, which exploded as a hit song for the 2021 Miami Carnival.

In other ventures, DJ Spider has produced sold out events at nightclubs throughout NYC, successfully solidifying his brand beyond the turntables as an entrepreneur.

DJ Spider received the Consul General of Barbados at New York’s Achievement Award, a tremendous honor recognizing his contributions to developing soca music in Barbados and the Caribbean.

DJ Likkle D

Top DJ

ikkle D is one of the top DJs

Following in his father’s footsteps, David”Likkle D” Brathwaite started DJ-ing when he was ten. His late uncle, Hattan Callender, gave him his first big break, playing at Empire Cricket Club awards ceremony at Nazareth

Other cricket club gigs followed and from there Likkle D progressed to now being a fixture at Barbadian and events by other Caribbean countries. His biggest gig to date was performing in Jamaica in 2015 at that country’s Independence celebrations.

Born in New York to Barbadian parents, the mix-master works fulltime at Animal Medical Center, in Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging. He has been there for 23 years.

His DJ career has endured as much due to his professionalism and song selection. He performs on his own or with DJ Sean. Partners since 2018, the duo have played on shows featuring Barbadian artistes such as Mole, Lil Rick, Marzville and Sugarhe.

Likkle D is expanding in the business; he hosts karaoke evenings and has, so far, produced two events featuring DJ Cutterman from Barbados.

CHEF CREIG Greenidge Culinary

Master

There he was, on the front page of the Barbados Nation with Food Network chef Ann Burrell featured as the star of the recently held 2022 Barbados Rum and Food Festival. And there

Rum & Rhythm Chef of the Year, the 2016 Embassy Chef Challenge winner and 2018/2019 CTO Rum &Rhythm People’s Choice Chef of the Year. On his first try in 2005, at the age of 25, he was then the youngest chef to win the Barbados Culinary Competition, copping the title of Barbados Chef of the Year.

This very talented chef has achieved an almost meteoric rise in his career, moving from chef apprentice to Executive Chef in a few short years. He has worked at some of the island’s best restaurants and now owns both a catering company and a restaurant, providing gastronomic experiences for some of the most prestigious

A veteran on the Barbados Culinary Team, he has won numerous awards locally, regionally and internationally. As a Culinary Ambassador for Barbados, Chef Creig’s passion has also taken him worldwide, including places such as Brazil, Ireland, Scotland, Belgium, England, Boston, Atlanta, Miami, Los Angeles, California, New York and Puerto Rico, conducting cooking demonstrations, presenting cuisines at food festivals and promotional events. He has - an eight episode series for a Caribbean television cooking show.

Chef Creig knew from the age of 12 that he wanted to be a chef when he discovered his love of cooking in his mother’s kitchen. Upon finishing school, he gained his formal entry-level education at the Barbados Community College and did his internship under the tutelage of Chef Peter Edey, where he refined his knowledge of Caribbean cuisine. Chef Creig rose from Commis Chef to Head Chef

He then moved on to become Sous Chef and quickly rose to Head Chef at MoHe was whisked away to take the post of Executive Chef at a south coast hotel and eventually moved to the west coast as Executive Chef for two hotels

As Chef Creig continued to win awards and gain accolades, he made the move to realise his dream of owning his own restaurant and ventured into catering. With his style of Caribbean cuisine and his uncanny ability to create exciting and innovative culinary masterpieces, Chef Creig’s journey into entrepreneurship quickly became as meteorically successful as his culinary career. Recognised as one of Barbados’ top chefs, Chef Creig has achieved his goal of being at the top of his profession - an achievement he made with dedication to the preservation and elevation of Caribbean

Mixologist Alexander DaVinci

Inspired to pursue his passion in bartending after making his first “Mojito” under the tutelage of Mixologist Dameain Williams, Alex Chandler, better known as Alexander DaVinci, is now an award-winning Liquid Artist. Guided to the profession by Williams and Bazil Jemmott on that fateful day, Da Vinci has never looked back.

A mixologist by passion and Land Surveyor by profession, the former Lodge School Student holds a Bach elor’s of Science in Geomatics from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus. He has seven years of experience in Mixology and Bartending.

Da Vinci expanded his knowledge through official certification at the Barbados Community College Hospitality Institute, training under David Barker, and hands on training as a member of The Barbados Culinary Teams, 2018 and 2019.

Inspired by grandmother’s cook ing, he enjoys using local flavors and recipes to create his signature cock tails. He has represented Barbados at Taste of the Caribbean on two oc casions. The second time, he won a gold medal for his outstanding per formance.

Ever seeking perfection, Da Vinci completed mixology and bartending courses at the TopShelf Academy Inc. He credits the vast knowledge gained from those courses as well as having Jamaal Bowen as a mentor for propel ling his craft.

Since then, he has showcased Barbados’ cuisine as Liquid Libations Creations in places such as Scotland,

Professor Sam Taitt

Educator, Broadcaster, Musician

Professor Sam Taitt has made indelible marks both in Barbados and in New York, one of a very few to straddle both communities in such a manner.

He first excelled in the media, starting in Barbados, gaining fame as a radio and television producer, announcer and journalist at the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation, (CBC) from 1969 – 1978, becoming CEO in 1987.

The former Board director of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union, (CBU), was also a media specialist, Commonwealth Fund for Technology Corporation, London, 1978 - 1980 and a Consultant, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, (UNESCO), 1988-1990. He completed media assignments in Latin America, Europe, China, Africa, and several Caribbean countries under the sponsorship of UNESCO, the Commonwealth Broadcasting Organization and various governments.

A gifted organist, skilled with the pipe and electronic organs, and chorale director, one of his exceptional accomplishments, one that contributed massively to the culture of Barbados, was his work with Sing Out Barbados.

As Musical Director and Business Manager beginning in the late 1970s, Sam Taitt engineered a dramatic shift in direction, remaking Sing

Out Barbados, which in short time became the country’s most popular folk group.

He is credited with composing the group’s signature song, Barbados Ah Come From, as well as Some Thing Is Going Wrong This Morning, among others, and was instrumental in producing the Sing Out Barbados musicals, Pappy and Lick and Lock Up Dun Wid. The album, Barbados Ah Come From, was also produced during his tenure.

The group performed at all the

major hotels and clubs for years and it was the cradle of some of Barbados’ best known voices – “First Lady of Song” Carlyn Leacock, calypsonian Keith Christian (Mighty Destroyer), and Ann Riley-Fox.

Taitt, a former Foundation student, immigrated to the USA and graduated with BA and BFA degrees from CUNY, Boston College, specializing in Television Production and Management He joined the faculty at CUNY-Kingsborough, and became a full Professor, Department of Communications and Performing Arts. He lectured in Mass Media Studies, Television Production, Writing for the Electronic Media and Public Speaking.

He also became very active in the Brooklyn community and was President of STRIVE – The Coalition for a Better Flatbush Inc., Brooklyn Rising Stars Lions Club, 67th Precinct Community Council and the New Era Democratic Club. He ran unsuccessfully for the 45th City Council District.

He established Brooklyn45 in 2000, a community access public affairs TV program that provides relevant and timely information that impacts residents and businesses in the borough of Brooklyn.

The show is broadcast twice weekly on Thursdays at 9 AM and 8 PM on Optimum, channel 67; RCN channel 82; Spectrum, channel 1995; and Verizon, channel 42. Taitt remains the Executive Producer and host.

Now retired, Sam Taitt has more than earned his reputation for exemplifying excellence as an educator, television producer and mentor, commitment to community service and greatly enhancing the cultural landscape of Barbados and its image in New York.

Walwyn Greenidge

Businessman

Quiet and unassuming, there is a lot to Walwyn Greenidge.

He is one of the most accomplished Barbadians in New York, operating a very successful business for more than 30 years.

His National Courier & Shipping Service is the go to service for Barbadians and others shipping to Barbados, the region and elsewhere.

The former Princess Margaret and Modern student from St. John, Barbados started work at the Psychiatric Hospital, intending to become a nurse. Due to limited training opportunities, it would have taken Greenidge six years to qualify so in 1971, he took a chance and applied to study at the Institute of Computer Tech, was successful and has been in New York ever since.

After dabbling in security, he joined Consolidated Stamps and remained there for 13 years until the company moved operations to Maine. Having already planted roots in New York, Wally, as he is known, opted not to move. Unable to find a company that paid his previous salary, in 1987 he decided to start a courier business with a friend, landing a messenger contract with Kodak, then a major US company.

That partnership was short lived. But Wally regrouped, registered a new company name, adding shipping to the business, and has never looked back. At the time, Amerijet was setting up a hub in New York and he started an association with that organization that remains exceptionally strong.

Building an enduring business in New York is an exceptional accomplishment, especially as a Barbadian. But there is a lot more to Walwyn Greenidge. Let’s just say generational wealth for him is not just a passing catchphrase.

Notable, too, is the amazing family dynamic he shares and continues to make a priority. He gathers weekly with his four surviving brothers to catch up because it is their thing. There are also three sisters surviving from a family of 14 children.

Wally is also very proud of his own family, four children and ten grands. Previously married for 34 years, he is now married to Judy.

Rev. Oral Walcott

Sn. Pastor

One of the most congenial and unassuming persons you will ever encounter, Rev. Oral Walcott is a calming presence, dedicated to Christian principles and community service.

Usually the coordinator of church services held by the Consulate General of Barbados at New York, he is the Senior Pastor of the Freeport Community Church of the Nazarene in Freeport, New York, where he has been serving since December 2018.

Born in Shop Hill, St. Thomas, Barbados and educated at Queens College, Rev. Oral served in several capacities on the Barbados District of the Church of the Nazarene, including Church Secretary, National Youth President and National Youth Camp Director.

He migrated to New York in 2003, and joined the Beulah Church of the Nazarene in Brooklyn. During his over 13 years spent at the church, he served as Youth Pastor, Pastor of Discipleship and Special Events and Executive Pastor. Among others, he streamlined the administration of the church and introduced many initiatives.

In 2010, Rev. Oral was ordained as an Elder in the Church of the Nazarene and currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Ministry of the Metro New York District, coordinating the credentialing of new ministers and candidates for ordination.

He is also a member of the Board of Directors of Healing For The Soul Empowerment Network, a faith-based nonprofit organization providing holistic ministry in New York, Atlanta, and Barbados. This includes ministering to at risk youth and working within juvenile detention centers and prisons. He was one of the architects of Project Change, a rehabilitative program and curriculum designed for used in the prison in Barbados and one in Brooklyn.

In addition, Rev. Walcott is a trustee of Ascend Charter Schools, a network of 15 schools serving over 6000 students in central Brooklyn.

Rev. Oral is married to Nicole, a mental health counselor specializing in addictions treatment. They have been married for two decades and are the proud parents of two wonderful daughters, Nia and Zoe.

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Wayne and Lucina Clarke,

Founders, My Time Inc.

One has to read the testimonials about My Time Inc. to understand the magnitude of the importance and impact of this amazing organization.

It is one the most unique, remarkable and inspiring organizations, not just in New York but the world.

MyTime Inc. is a non-profit dedicated exclusively to parents, grandparents and advocates of children with autism and developmental disabilities.

The organization assists these individuals to better advocate for their loved ones and provides support and conducts educational and behavioral workshops for parents. Definingly, it provides respite for caregivers from what is one of the hardest tasks facing families, dealing with a child with autism. The “Me Time” includes cinema breaks, attending shows, beauty makeovers and getaways.

It is estimated that 1 in 44 children are autistic. Now in its 15th year, the organization has touched the lives of more than 1000 persons.

The brains behind My Time Inc. are the husband and wife team of Barbadian Wayne Clarke, Director of Operations and his Trinidadian wife, Lucina, Executive Director. They have been married 35 years.

Lucina, a former teacher for 25 years, has a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Long Island University and a Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Penn State University. Wayne holds an MS degree in TV/

Radio from Brooklyn College and an undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts from The College of New Rochelle.

In July 2004, seeing the disconnect between children and parents and the frustration of both, Lucina formed a volunteer group, The Canarsie Parent Support Group for Individuals with Autism and Developmental Disabilities. The group met on a monthly basis to discuss issues, share and exchange information relating to autism and other related developmental disabilities. Building on this success, she and Wayne formed My Time Inc. in 2007, fully devoting themselves to bettering the lives of, in particular, caregivers of those with autism.

Both very passionate about their vocation - Wayne quietly and Lucina exuberant - they attend multiple seminars and conferences to keep abreast of all aspects of autism and handling behavioral challenges. No opportunity is missed to champion support for autism, with Lucina hosting a Facebook conversation, Favored Fridays, each week, and writing numerous articles, including a chapter in a recently published book.

Wayne and his wife have received numerous awards. These include the Autism Organization of the Year, for their work at My Time Inc. from New York Families for Autistic Children; an award from Sesame Flyers and Children of the Light Ministries Inc.; and 2018 Kings and Queens Award from Schneps Communications.

The New York Suicide Council also presented Wayne with the “I Am Hope” award for assistance in creating an Emotional Wellness component to the programs at My Time Inc.

In the aftermath of Super Storm Sandy, the couple formed the Canarsie Disaster Relief Committee (CDRC) with Debbie Tiamfook, a community leader, to help the victims of Canarsie. CDRC is a special committee of My Time Inc. Wayne is also the Chairman of the Community Advisory Board at Brookdale Community Hospital and a supporter of Children of the Light Ministries Food Pantry.

Lucina has created another arm of My Time Inc., DIVAS Discovery Journal – Discover and Invest in a Variety of ways to know and become your Authentic Self – that builds selfesteem and expression in all respects among women.

However they can, the Canarsie couple intend to widen the awareness and support for autism and add new dimensions to parent support.

Wayne and Lucina are parents of two, Wayne Jr and Keya, and proud grandparents of six, Eric Jr, Ashton, Charli, Alaina, Aniyah and Jiro.

David Burrowes

Bronx, Manhattan and Staten Island. This team consists of 750 Managers and Supervisors in the field and in the Operations Command Center.

Road Operations is responsible for the oversight and operation of 327 routes in all five boroughs. Operates 54,000 trips daily with 5,780 pieces of bus equipment in the six operating divisions within the NYC area. The Central Road Service (CRS) Maintenance unit also falls under the umbrella of Road Operations. NYC Transit operates the largest public transportation bus agency in North America.

Aformer police officer and US veteran, David Anderson Burrowes is one of those who keep New York moving. In fact, he is responsible for Road Operations including service management, incident management and operator safety training.

In this capacity, he leads an exciting and enthusiastic team of diverse, professional men and women who keep bus service on track, seven days a week, 24 hours a day in all five boroughs of NYC – Brooklyn, Queens, the

Burrowes, General Manager, Regional Bus Operations, MTA, New York City Transit, Dept. of Buses, was born in St. Joseph, Barbados moving to Cave Hill, St Michael at a young age. After Ellerslie Secondary School, he joined the Barbados Defense Force and later moved to the Royal Barbados Police Force where he served for seven years. He immigrated to the United States in 1987 to join family.

David has 28 years’ experience in bus operations and transportation planning at NYC Transit. Starting as a Bus Operator back in 1994, he steadily moved up the ranks of Supervision to Management prior to being on the executive leadership team. He ran several depots as an Assistant General Manager in the Staten Island, Queens and Brooklyn divisions before taking on a bigger role at the forefront of the successful launch of the Staten Island Express and Bronx Bus Network Redesigns.

As a policy maker now, he formulates regulations and directives and is part of the negotiation team for contract talks with Labor partners for various operational titles.

He holds an Associate degree in Business Administration and Management and a Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting from City University of New York. He is an active member of American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and holds numerous professional certifications from National Transit Institute, (NTI), in Urban Transportation Planning, Violence in Transit Workplace, Transit Safety and Security, Accident Investigations and Analysis, Paratransit Management and Operations and Crisis Communication in Transit Currently.

David is a proud US Veteran serving during his tenure at NYC Transit in the Unites States Army as a Military Police Officer. He has been on multiple deployments supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Noble Eagle as part of the Global War on Terrorism following the 9/11 attacks on US soil. David retired from the US military in 2012. He resides in Brooklyn with his family.

General Manager, Transportation, Buses, Municipal Transport Authority, (MTA)

Dr. Suzette M. Campbell Myles

Sn. Pastor

Slowly, steadily, purposefully, Dr. Suzette M. Campbell Myles is evolving a ministry that, along with its spiritual base, will provide spaces and training for advancement as well as assisting with immediate needs in practical ways.

The popular faith leader is founder and head of For His Glory Church Ministries, INC, a nondenominational Sabbath Church, in Hartford, CT.

Born in Reading Berkshire, England in 1967, to Barbadian parents from St. Andrew, her own life is an inspiration to others to follow their calling and fight through the obstacles.

She moved to Bloomfield, Connecticut at 15 and graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1984. By 23, she was a wife and mother of Norman, Colin, and Gabrielliah Campbell, pausing further academic pursuits.

Confronting several challenges, at 24, she made a transformative decision to truly serve the Lord. Pastor Campbell joined Maranatha Pentecostal Church, INC. in CT. started by cleaning the toilets and floors of her church.

She then began to study under the leadership of Overseer Idel Williams, founder of the church, and was ordained as a Minister in 1996. She served as Armor Bearer to the Pastor, Praise & Worship Leader and Youth Pastor.

In 2000, responding to a surge in violence, Pastor Campbell started a prayer group, Shackle Breakers, which was held at the Salvation Army on Barbour Street in Hartford, CT. She officially founded For His Glory Church Ministries, INC. in September of 2001.

Her ministry grew in size and impact, branching out and birthing more ministries, including temporary housing for women and a bible college.

In September 2009, she obtained her graduate degree in theology with a GPA of 4.0 from the Higher Learning School of Theology, a satellite location of North Carolina College of Theology in Wilmington. In June of 2012, she obtained her Doctorate Degree.

Dr. Sue, as she is affectionately called, established her own satellite college with North Carolina

College of Theology in 2013, now called New England college of Theology, formerly Northern Connecticut Inspirational College of Theology, in Hartford, CT. She currently sits on the board of directors for North Carolina College of Theology.

In 2020, Dr. Campbell’s ministry went from a local Sabbath Church in Hartford, CT to an internationally livestreamed ministry reaching souls across America, the West Indies, and England.

Her vision for the church to be a place to comprehensively serve the needs of the community for the betterment of the lives of men, women, and children is poised to take a giant step with the establishment of a new, multipurpose facility offering a range of social services.

Dr. Campbell, who was also raised by her grandmother, Magnell Lowe, who imparted in her a great understanding of the rich Barbadian culture, is also hoping to bring aspects of her ministry to Barbados which she visited often as a child and continues to do so several times a year. She is married to Chef and Real Estate agent Adrian Myles.

Ricky Durant

Once deemed “the great connector” for his amiable management skills, Ricardo “Ricky” Durant’s educational, career, musical and philanthropic accomplishments have spanned well over 60 years.

The Plainfield, New Jersey resident, from Deighton Road, St. Michael, Barbados, is also batting high with more than 50 years of marriage to Marcia Fields. He met her while attending the Modern High School from 1963 to 1967, “at the school yard standpipe”.

Ricky’s first impact was in music, stimulated by his mother, Majorie, with annual gifts of a harmonica and a mini xylophone. He then got a guitar but it was the gift of a bass guitar set him on a musical path.

At the Bay Primary Elementary School, at 13 he was tapped to play bass guitar for the Teenage College Thrillers, (TCT). The TCT became known for playing the most enticing ballroom style music. The talented young musicians accompanied Richard Stoute, Jackie Opel, Mike Wilkinson, Norma Stoute and many other top Barbadian entertainers. The band’s outstanding performances with Richard Stoute, in particular their recording of Goodbye Bajan Girl, earned them critical acclaim throughout the Caribbean. Soon, the band was invited to play in St. Vincent and Grenada.

Ricky played bass for six years with TCT before joining the Blue Rhythm Combo (BRC). The BRC became famous for playing several genres of music including Barbados’ Spouge. It toured the United States and Canada, playing with some of America’s most famous musicians, and opened for Stevie Wonder in Barbados in the early 1970s.

Ricky immigrated to the United States and joined Rotodyne Industries at the Navy Yard in Brooklyn, New York, a full-service engineering firm, specializing in manufacturing of industrial machinery & equipment. He worked on the assembly line for two years.

He then joined the Office Services team at Jackson Lewis LLP, a labor and employment law firm in Manhattan, quickly becoming known because of his work ethic. The firm’s Managing Partner, Bill

Krupman, relied on Ricky’s relationship building skills with the court and labor board clerks in the processing of documents, to advance the firm’s reputation in the industry.

Ricky started as a file clerk, before gradually moving through every single department - legal, paralegal, library, accounting, document production, and office management - learning the ins and outs of the law firm. He also went back to school to earn his Mechanics Certification from Union Technical Institute.

His positive attitude, lighthearted disposition and professionalism contributed to the firm quickly growing to 62 offices nationwide. He retired as the firm’s Office Services Supervisor, after 47 years of service, with a reputation as the “great connector”, recruiting, introducing, and expanding the pipeline for other Caribbean men looking to secure stable employment.

A believer in the famous Shirley Chisholm quote, “Service is the rent we pay for living on this earth”, Ricky is known for helping others and a behind the scenes worker who gets things done. He joined the Barbados American Charitable Organization of New Jersey, (BACONJ), with the shared purpose of helping less fortunate people in Barbados and the

Additionally, Ricky and Marcia sponsor prizes for the essay competition of the Richard Stoute Teen Talent Show, and provide graduation gifts and school supplies for young scholars.

Recently, after losing dear friend and fellow musician Lew “Jiggs” Kirton, Ricky joined with Bajan Diaspora Online & Friends, chaired by Mary Yearwood, to honor his memory. The group produced the concert, A Tribute to Llewellyn “Jiggs” Kirton in New York. Funds from the dinner dance and concert will support the first recording of an aspiring young entertainer/ musician in Barbados.

Ricky has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, receiving awards and certificates of achievement from the Modern High School Alumni Association, New Covenant Christian Academy and BACONJ.

Beyond playing the bass guitar, he is a long-time member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Choir. His soulful bass voice can also be heard during Black History Month concerts at the United Methodist Church, with Mark Miller’s Community Choir during the Easter season and with Calvary Baptist Church at Christmas time.

Ricky and Marcia have two children, Natasha and Dwayne, and seven grandchildren.

Sonia Clarke Community Leader, Association Member

The immediate success of the Barbados Support Group, (BSG), a group focused on direct assistance to those in need in Barbados, the most recently formed in New York, was largely due to Sonia Clarke. She not only brought great energy and organizational skills, but important connections.

Sonia is leading where more Barbadians need to follow to maintain a Barbados presence in New York and elsewhere, and associations should note to build the necessary connections to survive as members age and the environment changes.

Very active in her community, she is Vice Chair of the 120-year-old Flatbush-Tompkins Congregational Church, a Board Member of the historic Wyckoff House Museum and a member of Community Board 17 Commerce Committee and Blocks Association Committee.

The committees work with City officials to identify areas where the City should spend allocated resources through the participatory budget. Sonia also works with local officials to help carve legislation for her community by educating residents how to let their voices be heard and how to work collectively to have forceful and meaningful impact on legislative items.

She also assists planning and coordinating community fairs (health, housing, etc), symposiums, and other collaborative events that improves the lives within her community and beyond.

Additionally, Sonia has also been a member of the Brooklyn45 team for 15 years. Brookly45 is a community TV organization dedicated to publicizing events and discussing issues affecting communities, with a wider ambit now than its concentration on Brooklyn initially.

She is also an Emergency Radio operator of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) through NYCEM (New York City Emergency Management). CERT works with the City to assist in disasters, managing hurricane shelters, assisting law enforcement with traffic control and such matters.

Further, she is on the Executive of the St. George Secondary Old Scholars International, (SGSSI), her alma mater, is a member of the Caribbean American Scientific Association, (CAMSA), and is the go-to for technical assistance for all the Consulate’s online sessions. Sonia’s community service started in Barbados as a teenager, following the example of her mother. Her involvement in Youth Group, Church Girls Brigade, Girl Guides, solidified her sense of community.

This led to a Human Resources and Management degree from the University of the West Indies, (UWI), Cave Hill and Sonia worked at Club Rockley, then a groundbreaking tourism/residential development in Christ Church, as Human Resources Manager from 1982 – 2000, all her working life in Barbados.

She did not continue in the human resources field after immigrating, but even feeling that community service in the USA is much different than in Barbados, she stepped right in, knowing the principle of service is the same everywhere. Sonia is also driven by Hebrews 13:16: And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

Now a Broadcast Advertising Manager, Sonia likes to read, play squash and spend time with her family. She is married to Adrian and they are the parents of three children and one granddaughter.

De-Jane Gibbons

Social Development Specialist

Persons who know De-Jane are not surprised she is in the field that she is in and excelling at it. She is a genuine person with the kindest heart, always willing to help others through difficult situations or improve their lives and never forgetting those who have played roles in her journey to success.

A Social Development Specialist and Advisor, she has

moved from serving as a Community Education Officer at the Barbados Family Planning Association, (BFPA), to her current position, as a Coordination Specialist in the Executive Office at UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund.

Along her journey, De-Jane has worked throughout the Caribbean and internationally, and with a number of international agencies, most connected with the United Nations.

From Tom Bend Gap, St. Peter, the former Alexandra student and Combermerian, she holds a first degree in Sociology and Psychology and a Masters in Project Management and Evaluation.

She started work at the Barbados Advocate, focusing on health and human-interest journalism. Her work as a journalist delivered an invitation to join the BFPA as a Community Education Officer.

Moving on, De-Jane worked with the United Nations Children’s Fund, (UNICEF), as a Consultant, working mainly with government and civil society partners in five Eastern Caribbean countries in developing HIV/AIDS programmes with and for young people.

She also worked with the United Nations Fund for Women, UNIFEM, focusing on youth, advocacy and HIV/AIDS programming and as Project Management Consultant with the Canadian International Development Agency, (CIDA), providing project management and research support for Eastern Caribbean countries.

Prior to her assignments at UNFPA, De-Jane worked as the UN Coordination Analyst in the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, (OECS). Her responsibilities included assisting in coordinating the development and acceptance of the first United Nations Development Assistance Framework, which was signed by the ten participating Member States. She also assisted the UN Subregional Team for Barbados and the OECS.

At country level, De-Jane worked as the Assistant Representative/Liaison Officer for the UNFPA Sub-regional Office for the Caribbean, Barbados Liaison Office, which is the focal office for Barbados and the OECS.

Janelle Gibson

Vice Consul, Consulate General of Barbados at NY

In many respects, Vice Consul Janelle Gibson is a main ingredient in the glue that holds together the Consulate General of Barbados at New York.

She is a problem solver, likes to get things done and be associated with quality and feels staff should have fun. Gibson initiated the popular staff Ugly Sweater competition and the Consulate’s Fun Day, and is always eager to do something sociable with her colleagues.

Now in her 11th year at the Consulate, she is the Accountant for both the Consulate and the Permanent Mission of Barbados, both of which operate from 820 Second Avenue in Manhattan. She also undertakes various Consular functions as needed, such as verifying passport applications and meeting visiting Government officials as well as attending official functions.

Her experience, competence in Accounting and dedication also means that she is a resource often called on by other overseas offices.

From St. Andrew, Barbados, she attended the Alleyne School, and the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill.

Determined to be an accountant from school days, she worked at the Ministry of Health and the Accountant General’s office, among others, before being transferred overseas by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

The mother of two boys, she finds happiness in tranquility. A nature lover, she enjoys hiking and travelling.

Jacqui Workman

President, BACONJ

It might be the lone Barbadian organization in New Jersey, but it is a powerful one, with an impressive history of support to particularly children in New Jersey and Barbadian causes, whether in the USA, home or elsewhere.

Guiding BACONJ – the Barbados American Charitable Organization of New Jersey – since 2017 as President is Jacqui Workman. Energetic, dependable and always willing to support any Barbadian initiative in any role, she is also one of the Barbadians who understands the necessity and is determined to have a stamp beyond associations for the benefit of community and the country of her birth.

Jacqui took the first step in 2019 with her appointment to the City of Plainfield Planning Board, a position she still holds, and last year, she was elected to a three- year term on the Plainfield Board of Education where she chairs the Operation Committee.

Her areas of focus are working with stakeholders and community members to create and implement a strategic plan that will guide the district for 3-5 years, creating equity for all students and using data to guide school district’s decisions.

An employee of the City of Plainfield Department of Communications,

Jacqui, originally from the Pine, St, Michael has been living in the USA for more than 30 years.

Before public life, she worked mainly in marketing and event planning. She spent nine years as Events Manager at Realogy Holdings Corp. from 2005, was Events Manager at Century 21 Real Estate for just shy of nine years until 2014, spent almost three years as Senior Customer Engagement Manager, ERA Real Estate, and some six years from 2017 as Director of Operations, BMC LLC Group.

Raised by her grandparents to strive for excellence and treat others as she would want to be treated, Jacqui has always been supportive of causes. Her interest in community involvement developed as an Easter Seal, when she worked with Century 21, a sponsor of the program. This involved spending a day to prepare a camp site for summer, including cleaning, gardening and roofing.

Her work with BACONJ followed. She served as Public Relations Officer and Lead Planner from 2007 – 2016, before being elected President. The association concentrates on providing scholarships to students but members work tirelessly to assist those less fortunate anywhere in the world. The 501(c)3 not for profit, which normally holds three main fundraising events annually, has provided aid as far away as Africa and the Caribbean, apart from Barbados. It also provides holiday gifts to the DCPP – Division of Child Protection and Permanency - program.

Through BACONJ, her board positions and any other opportunities, Jacqui, who is married to Troy, intends to continue her passionate commitment to helping children achieve their goals.

Heather Marsh

Past President, Barbados Cancer Association, USA, (BACA), Inc.

Heather Marsh has been one devoted organization member and on her own an exceptionally strong supporter of Barbados over almost a decade.

She has individually contributed the most care bears to the Care Buddy Project, which benefits children at the Pediatric Ward of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Barbados.

The project, started by Treva Holder, aims to provide every child on the ward with a stuff toy to help with pain management and provide comfort while being treated.

Heather is the immediate past president of the Barbados Cancer Association USA (BACA), Inc., a non-profit agency dedicated to raising cancer awareness in Barbadian and Caribbean communities in the USA.

Ms. Marsh joined BACA in September 2013 and served as a member of the executive leadership team from 2014, when she was elected Secretary. She became Public Relations Officer in 2016 with responsibility for promoting BACA, its programs and events and was elevated to President in January 2017, serving in this role for five years.

She is also the secretary on the Executive Committee of the Barbados Diaspora Collaborative USA Inc., the fundraising arm in the USA for the Barbados Hospice Initiative.

In her professional life, Heather joined the International Business Machines (IBM) Corporation in 1989. She spent ten years in Administration as an Executive Secretary. Heather also has over 20 years’ experience as a Marketing Operations professional supporting marketing executives and their teams. She was responsible for budgetary management, resource management, business controls, reporting and metrics. After 32 years of service with IBM, she retired on September 30, 2021.

Heather also served two years as President of the Board of Directors for Tiffany Towers Ltd., a cooperative in White Plains, NY.

Ms. Marsh was born in Barbados and was educated at Christ Church Girl’s Foundation School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, majoring

in Finance from Pace University, in Pleasantville, NY and a Psychology of Leadership certificate from Cornell University, NY.

An only child, she has returned to Barbados to spend as much time with her mother. But Heather remains as committed as ever to the survival of the associations with which she has been involved, participating in the Consulate’s online sessions and supporting needy causes in Barbados.

Jonathan Sandiford

Aunique feature in Barbadian communities anywhere in the United States – a Barbadian business. Even rarer is children working in the family business.

One who has thankfully embraced this rather singular trait is Jonathan Sandiford, Co-Founder and Vice President of Coral Isle Trading Inc. an importer and distributor of authentic Caribbean products.

He can be found in the Glenwood Road, Brooklyn business on a daily basis filling orders and helping customers with their favourite Bajan goodies like mauby, yes the Sweet and Dandy, Eclipse biscuits, Plus, Bajan seasoning and mints.

The business and his involvement in it is a great source of pride among Barbadians, who often remark on Jonathan’s patience and caring.

Born on 21 October in Brooklyn, New York to Barbadian parents Ingrid and Carlos Sandiford, Jonathan spent his childhood in Queens, New York with his parents and siblings Debbie and Jason Sandiford.

He got his head start at St. Clare’s Elementary School

before moving on to St. Mary’s College Preparatory High School where he graduated. Jonathan continued his education at Hofstra University where he studied Business Administration, a set up for the role he has at Coral Isle Trading Inc.

A natural leader who radiates enthusiasm and warmth, Jonathan goes out of his way to ensure that those around him are well taken care of. These characteristics served him well when he entered the family distribution business. He works very close with his dad, enabling him to shadow and learn the daily workings of the business.

Jonathan is enthusiastic about his Barbadian heritage, demonstrated by his annual visits to Barbados. He is also happy that his organization is involved in obtaining foreign earnings for the Barbados economy.

Jonathan is a proud father, dedicated son, brother and uncle. He is an inspiration to those around him often setting an example and high standard for everyone to follow.

With him in the business, Coral Isle is not only looking to increase its range of products but also building to ensure the business survives more than a generation.

Tasha Stoute

Entertainment Executive

If Tasha Stoute has her way, she will be soon producing shows in Barbados. She recently made a trip at the end of October with this very object in view.

She enjoys a life that most young people fantasize about, hobnobbing with legends, superstars and hot up comers in the entertainment world, attending red carpet events and major festivals.

But for her its work, and beneath the veneer of interacting with headliners and the glamour is a serious amount of commitment, attention to detail, imperviousness, flexibility and perceptiveness, all important traits to possess when dealing with mercurial stars and rapidly moving parts.

For two decades and more, Tasha has shined in her chosen field and this year, MNRK Music Group, formerly Entertainment One Music, in New York, appointed her Senior Director of Publicity. She joined the publicity department in 2018 and has been instrumental in the overall success of the label’s urban artists.

With the promotion, Stoute will continue creating and implementing campaigns for the urban division’s wide variety of artists and work closely with the label’s marketing and sales teams. She will spearhead campaigns for artists like Brandy, Dionne Warwick, Mount Westmore, and more.

The 23-year communications specialist within the music, entertainment and lifestyle industries, known for her tenacity, has created campaigns for awardwinning artists, pop culture influencers, world changers, and major cultural events.

She is credited with merging the gap between mainstream music and Christian Hip Hop due to her work with multi-Grammy winner and Rapper, Lecrae, ultimately changing the genre as a whole. Superstars and legends, The Dream, Ne-Yo, El DeBarge, The O’Jays, Ledisi, Jazmine Sullivan, India.Arie, Mario,

Tank, Rico Love, Chuck Harmony; NBA player Jamal Crawford, television personalities/actors Lala Anthony, Elijah Kelley and Fonzworth Bentley are among her client roster.

Ms. Stoute’s portfolio includes spearheading the publicity efforts for A-List events including ESSENCE’s highly anticipated “Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon” and ESSENCE Festival. She’s also led public relations strategy for ASCAP, the NHL, Verizon Wireless, and MoCADA.

Born in New York to Barbadian parents, Tasha attended Farmingdale State College before gaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts, BFA, from Long Island University and a MA, Communications from New York Institute of Technology.

From early, she set her sights on a career in entertainment, interning while in college with a rep for TV star Barbara Walters. This was followed by another internship with a publicist who worked with Beyoncé, the Fugees and Escape.

Tasha landed her first major job with Interscope Records as a Publicity Coordinator in 1999. She moved to EMI Music as Corporate Communications Coordinator, before consulting on her own for two years. In 2008, she joined the Chamber Group as Director of Media Relations, remaining there for five years before again striking out on her own for some five years, before joining the then Entertainment One Music. While she has overwhelmingly worked in the entertainment realm, Ms. Stoute has also managed campaigns for brands like Bounty, the Foundation for Diabetes and the National Health Fund, NHF.

She is also the owner of Strong Arm Media, an entertainment and lifestyle PR & Marketing Firm, the vehicle by which she is planning to bring events to Barbados, which she visits frequently.

Her interest in Barbados is due to her mother Pauline Stoute, a popular caterer in the Barbadian community, and her father Douglas, who is very invested in the country of his birth.

Actually, one would not think Tasha is surrounded by the glamourous as she often assists her mother with her catering jobs. Which is probably the best indication of her fitness for her profession, that she is well balanced and very grounded, especially in family.

Earl Yearwood Retired Educator

From time to time, people walk up to Earl Yearwood and thank him. That is because as a former educator, he has been a positive in the lives of hundreds of students.

After 19 years, Earl Yearwood retired this year as Assistant Principal, East New York Family Academy, NYC Dept. of Education.

Short Earle, as everyone calls him, can look back on a fulfilling career that is the opposite of his stature.

Born and educated in Barbados, the former Harrisonian, who emigrated at 19, has spent all his working life in New York, between banking and teaching.

From 1978 - 1983, Earl was a bank teller at Greenpoint Savings Bank, Chemical Bank, NYC and a Computer Operator, Manufacturers Hanover Trust Co., NYC.

Brant G. Maynard

Brant Maynard was born in New York City on September 26, 1972 to Neville of Rosegate, St. John and Hazel of Guinea, St. John, Barbados. He graduated from Holy Cross High School, Queens, NY in 1990 and later attended John Jay College and York College (CUNY) graduating with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and a minor in Speech Theater in 1994.

Giving back and being of service to others defines Brant. This is evident from his work throughout his life. He started his career as an EMT from 19941997, then became a Paramedic from 1997-2000. During this time, he wanted

He completed the AAS, Marketing Management, New York City Technical College, CUNY, in 1982, added a BBA, International Marketing, Baruch College, CUNY, in 1986 and the MSEd., NYS License (Education and Supervision), Baruch College, CUNY in 2003.

Earl was an Academic Tutor and Adjunct Tutor, Baruch College, CUNY between 1983 and 1988 and served as an Instructor, UFT Chapter Leader (1999-2003), NYC Dept. of Education from 1986 to 2003, when he became an Assistant Principal.

During his education stint, Earl served on a number of education

to do more and studied, becoming a New York City Police Officer in 2000. Brant served with the NYPD through 9/11 but left the Force in 2002, becoming an officer with the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey that year. In 2014, he was promoted to Sergeant and in July this year he was promoted to Lieutenant. Brant is currently the tour commander of LaGuardia Airport.

A constant learner, while working

organizations and board. He was a member of the United Federation of Teachers, NYC from 1986 – 2003 and Grievance Advocate from 2001 – 2003, a member of the Foxfire Education Service Organization and the International Reading Association from 1989 – 1992 and a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics from 1998 – 2003.

Since 2003, he has been a member, Council of Supervisors and Administrators, NYC as well as a member, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. He has also been a Member, American Association of Retired Persons since this year.

Formerly an avid sportsman, Earl played competitive cricket at Harrison College in Barbados and for Cambridge CC, Superstars CC and Cameroon CC, (NYC) from 1973 – 2003 and played racquetball and tennis from 1986 –2016.

Now a keen gardener, he is married to Penelope and has two sons.

as a Sergeant, he enrolled in New York College of Health Professionals in 2020 and will be receiving a second degree in Reflexology in a few semesters.

The killing of George Floyd prompted him to pursue this second degree. His ultimate goal is to teach how to use positive energy and pressure points to deescalate a situation instead of using excessive force. Along with positive tactics, Brant wants to bring awareness to stress and suicide among police officers.

This has also aided Brant in reconditioning his body for optimum performance while still performing his duties as an officer.

Currently living in Queens, NY, he has a daughter, Kayla, who is 19. She attends St. John’s University, pursing a degree in Business on a four-year academic scholarship.

FRIEND OF THE CONSULATE

Joyce Stanton

Joyce Stanton has been called “Barbados’ best ambassador in Boston.” That accolade was affixed by no less a person than Governor of Massachusetts Charlie Baker.

She may be resident in Boston, but Joyce is ever-present at Consulate activities in New York, and always ready to lend a hand doing whatever needs to be done.

Outgoing, kind hearted and unswerving in her love for Barbados, she came to the USA from Bank Hall 51 years ago to create a better life for her four children.

Settling in New York, she worked in hair salons and at Barneys before moving to Boston in 1993. Joyce, who worked in the hotel sector in Barbados before immigrating, secured a position at the Charles Hotel in Harvard Square, Cambridge remaining there for 19 years before retiring.

It was during this period that she met Charlie Baker, who worked in the area as the CEO of a heath care company. So impressed was he with Ms. Stanton that on becoming Governor in 2015, he invited her to become his receptionist.

A relentless promoter of Barbados, in 2018, when she heard that the Consulate was raising the Barbados flag in Boston at the Mayor’s office, she turned up with a citation from the Governor. One of her memorable moments was presenting Prime Minister Mia Mottley at Ilaro Court, the official residence, with a citation from Baker marking Barbados’ transition to a Republic. Joyce was also instrumental in Consul General Mackie Holder securing a meeting with Governor Baker earlier this year and in organizing Team Barbados activities during the weekend trip.

Also an avid churchgoer, Ms. Stanton has been a member of St. Cyprian’s Church since 1993. She is a member of the ECW - Episcopal Christian Women, the Usher Board, Vestry and Altar Guild.

Joyce is looking forward to retiring to Barbados but will continue promoting Barbados to the many friends she has made in her decades in New York and Boston.

Shelly Ann Griffin

Shelly Ann Griffin is one of the thousands of Barbadians who have no affiliation with any organization but who does not hesitate to assist with any event or initiative.

She brings a worldview to discussions and discipline and organization to any task, reflecting a life lived in different countries and her varied career. She has 25 years of experience in Operations, Compliance & Administrative Management, Housing/Property Management, and Communications & Information Technological Systems.

Currently, a Senior Tax Credit Compliance Associate (TCS) with A1 Realty Management, she worked in Barbados with Planned Maintenance Inc, as the Director’s PA. & IT Administrator for four years before moving on in 2012 to become Director’s PA, Accounts & Administrations Coordinator, Climate Control (Barbados) Ltd., remaining there until 2015.

Shelly then worked as Executive Assistant and Client Relationship Manager, C&W Business (Barbados) Business Centre before joining Wavecrest Management Team as a Recertification Compliance Specialist on her return to New York in 2019.

Born and raised primarily in Barbados, she attended schools in Barbados and the USA and migrated to the United Kingdom in her late teens.

Residing in Britain for 10 years, she attended university whilst working in retail and the local District County Housing office. She earned a BSc Honors in Business and Information Technology and then followed her dream of joining the military by becoming a Royal Air Force CIS Engineer. Prioritizing family, Shelly reluctantly withdrew her service after a few years to return to Barbados, with plans of joining her Step-Dad in the Barbados Defense Force, with hopes of continuing military service. Having commenced officer selection and excelling through the obstacles stages, at the final interview, her dreams and hard work were dashed by her Reserve Duty commitment to the UK.

She then got into charity work as a way to give back, becoming one of the two first female members of Rotary Club West. Along with being Bulletin Editor and other duties, Shelly started a project that provided items such as

toiletries, clothing and school supplies for children in Child Care Board homes.

Again, in another twist, Ms. Griffin had to return to the USA in 2019. There is some satisfaction that her current job involves federally supported housing, but she is still searching for a community service project for which she feels deep passion. In the meantime, she will continue to support the Consulate and Barbadian causes while seeking to position herself to become “ a more meaningful national”.

Patricia Belle

Quietly, Patricia Belle supports the Consulate and Barbadian activities and causes in big ways. She made one of the biggest individual donations with a vehicle load of school supplies for distribution in Barbados.

Pat is a founding member and Past President of Springer Memorial Alumnae Association, serving three consecutive terms from 2016.

Formerly from Waterford, St. Michael, Barbados, she came to New York in 1968 at 15.Pat received a scholarship from the Urban League but in 1970 she secured a job at the Telephone Company and spent the next 25 years there, retiring in 1995.

She began as an operator, moved to Time Sheets in 1973 for two years and ended up as a technician.

Pat then worked in a flower shop for four years before taking a break but went back from 2001-2004. She still helps out at the flower shop from time to time but spends her time with her mother and enjoying her various hobbies.

Anthony “Tony” Toppin

One of the people the Consulate can count on to call and volunteer to assist in any way is Anthony “Tony” Toppin.

A man who loves to enjoy life and is a fixture at one of the well-know gathering spots for Barbadians, living in New York or visiting, Tony’s life has actually been one of service.

From Porey Spring, St. Thomas, he attended Federal High School and the

Technical Institute, studying Technical Drawing and Mechanics with the intention of becoming a mechanic. However, he joined the Police Band at 16, playing the French horn for three and half years, before entering the Police Training Centre at 19. Topping spent ten and a half years in the Force before immigrating to New York.

Since then, he has been the Lost Prevention Officer at the 2000 plus rooms Marriot Marquis in Times Square. He retires at the end of December after 32 years.

Tony played cricket for Empire Cricket Club as an allrounder for 25 years from 1985 and is known to be a strong supporter of Barbadian associations.

Prime Minister Centerstage

It seems as if Prime Minister Mottley took over New York this year. She visited more than usual and, certainly, she was the centre of attention every time she appeared.

She attended the inaugural Global Citizen NOW thought leadership summit in May, sharing a stage with Bill Bye in person and Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau. On the same day of her session, Time Magazine announced Mottley as one of the Time 100 Most Influential People, with the Prime Minister gracing one of the four covers issued.

She met or chatted with a host of people including former Prime Minister of Norway, Erna Solberg; Chair and CEO of Cisco, Chuck Robbins; singer Aloe Blacc and Executive Director of Rihanna’s Clara Lionel Foundation, Justine Lucas. She also met with differently able activist, Eddie Ndopu; Ethan Freedman of the Independent Newspaper, UK; US

Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Founder of Global Citizen, Hugh Evans, and some members of his team.

Mottley also spent some time with the staff of the Consulate and the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

The Prime Minister made a quick stop in June, on her way to California and the Summit of the Americas to participate in the Time 100 forum at Lincoln Center. She also took the opportunity to meet with executives at Northwell Health.

Mottley was back for the United Nations General Assembly. Along with numerous diplomatic meetings, she attended the Goalkeepers Forum, sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. After a private meeting with Bill Gates, attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jerome Walcott and Consul General Mackie Holder, the Prime Minister made a short speech at the public session and then shared the stage with Prime Minister of Spain

Pedro Sanchez and Bill and Melinda Gates. June Sarpong chaired the session.

During Mottley’s final trip to New York, she toured the Brooklyn Steam Center, New York’s first school located in a business environment, Brooklyn Navy Yards. It is a partner school of the XQ Institute, which works with New York City Education to reimagine learning spaces.

The hands-on Center has five career pathways, Construction Technology, Computer Science & Information Technology, Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management, Design & Engineering and Film and Media.

Prime Minister Mottley also received the UN Foundation’s 2022 Champion for Global Change Award. It was an occasion shared with family and friends. She ended her feature speech with Alison Hind’s Togetherness, to the delight of the audience.

Barbados in New York – An Answered Prayer

It took some time, but the weeklong Barbados in New York event, (B-York), made the necessary splash. The showcase, a joint effort by the Consulate General and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., (BTMI), brought Barbadian cuisine and entertainment to the Barbadian and friends community in New York along with targeted events for tourism partners.

Consul General Mackie Holder has been pushing for such a vehicle in New York since assuming duties in 2018. It was felt that New York, where most Barbadians live outside of Barbados, needed to be brought in line with other jurisdictions that were afforded, in some cases, very substantial events.

He said that while BTMI had undertaken successful events in New York over the years, he could not understand why there were no signature mass event, or series of events, that embraced the community while helping to cement the image of Barbados as the destination for all things.

Consulate led the connections with the community while BTMI provided the talent, marketing and giveaway paraphernalia. The week was one of the first major undertakings for the new BTMI team, back to full strength with three new additions, headed by Eusi Skeete.

The week of strategic celebrations got underway with a service at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, Garden City New York, which is developing links with the Anglican Church in Barbados.

There were two sessions for travel partners and the week included a Taste of Oistins, which drew a mammoth crowd on a Monday night, a community interaction at the Consulate, a young influencers’ party and a pop up wind down, in association with the Barbados Support Group, (BSG), featuring Peter Ram.

Logistical challenges worked against the planned concert, which will be a spectacular dimension next year. Still, the BTMI team, the various cuisine ambassadors – Chefs Javon Stoute, Creig Greenidge and Damian Leach, mixologist Phillip “Casanova” Antoine, Consulate staff and all associated set the stage for what, in the future, could be a New York calendar event.

Finally….A Role likely for Dr. Velma Scantlebury

One of the most pleasing achievements for the Consulate has been, finally, getting some traction for Dr. Velma Scantlebury, the first female black transplant surgeon, to utilise her experience, universally praised skills and connections to help with renal and NCD diseases in Barbados.

In the end, Prime Minister Mia Mottley cemented the process, chairing a meeting with the Minister of Health and other health officials and Dr. Scantlebury. President Dame Sandra Mason also held an audience with Dr. Scantlebury setting the proper tone and according our medical rock star the kind of interaction that all should follow.

However, much of the credit should go to Terri-Anne Moore-Knowles, a Project Manager at QEH. From a simple, off the cuff conversation with CG Holder in January, when he was in Barbados, Moore-Knowles got behind the desire to have Dr. Scantlebury involved in Barbados. She carried the weight of speaking with the doctor, getting relevant parties involved, including Transplant Links and Forlam Foundation, organizing meetings and most aspects of the business side of Dr. Scantlebury’s trip.

A working lunch chaired by then Minister of Health and Wellness Ian Gooding-Edghill followed the Prime Minister’s meeting. Discussions examined the existing situation with transplantation in Barbados, necessary inputs to a more viable programme, and how Dr. Scantlebury could assist.

Legislation, a comprehensive sensitization public relations programme and some medical inputs were identified as priorities for an energized renal disease and transplant project.

The aim is to move beyond the average two transplants a year, except when an English team undertakes procedures, with strong emphasis on improved diet and exercise to reduce renal disease in the first place.

A work in progress, what is agreed is that Dr. Scantlebury can definitely make a decisive difference.

Shifting Gears

In changing circumstances, and to reignite the planned path from 2020, the Consulate General of Barbados took the decision to be more focused on connecting with public representatives and business entities. This view, shared by the CARICOM Consular Corps, of which CG Holder is the Chair, is agreed to be the best way forward to have Barbados top of mind and secure representation for citizens.

This against the background of other nationalities surging, more State representation with Caribbean heritage and the elevation of Eric Adams, who spent two terms as Borough President of Brooklyn, where most Barbadians live, he is now Mayor of New York. There is also the sobering reality by politicians that the support of Caribbean people is needed to secure electoral wins, an open window that should be taken advantage of.

CG Holder secured an important meeting with Mayor Adams and his team in the last week of June. Representatives from Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Dominica and The Bahamas attended.

The very frank session raised matters on business facilitation and commerce, education, immigration, gun crime and trafficking, cooperation between law enforcement agencies and raising the profile of the Caribbean community through full engagement and support of Caribbean Heritage Month and such events beyond photo ops.

A separate one on one meeting was held with the Mayor’s Commissioner for International Affairs, Ed-

ward Mermelstein, with whose office an engaging working relationship has developed.

Incidentally, CG Holder was the special speaker at the Mayor’s celebration of Caribbean Heritage Month at Gracie Mansion, the official residence. The other speaker was none other than Barbadian Hon. Sylvia HindsRadix.

Consulate restarted its outreach in earnest with a session over the first weekend in April in Boston with Team Barbados - Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., (BTMI) and Invest Barbados. They held a State of the Economy and Investing event, with Special Economic Advisor, Ambassador Clyde Mascoll as the main presenter, a community interaction and supported a fundraiser. Honorary Consul Tim Downes, United Barbadians in Boston, (UBIM), the Barbados Support Group, (BSG), and individuals Joyce Stanton and Andrew Sobers assisted the New York

The highlight of the trip was a meeting with Governor of Massachusetts Charlie Baker and Mark F. Sullivan, Executive Director, Massachusetts Office of International Trade & Investment. Barbados’ history enthralled Baker, who gave high marks for Barbados’ management of Covid19. Climate change, alternative energy, flood mitigation, education and political culture were the main topics of the meeting, which went way beyond its scheduled time.

Massachusetts and Barbados share an education base, and the State has America’s biggest alternative energy programme. Flooding in Boston has also concentrated attention on mitigating the effects of climate change. There is much to gain from cooperation between Barbados and Massachusetts.

team of CG Holder, Vice Consul Janelle Gibson and Eusi Skeete, BTMI Director, USA.

Attendance at the World Affairs Council of CT Diplomatic Reception in June, actually a business networking event, opened several new connections with beneficial possibilities, particularly in health and international business sectors. Unsurprisingly, some attendees were familiar with Barbados and sang its praises but a pleasant surprise was the Caribbean cuisine served.

A visit to the New York State Capital in Albany ostensibly for a Caribbean Heritage celebration organized by Brooklyn Assembly member Jaime Williams, delivered a day of encouraging conversations with numerous State and private sector officials. The discussions with Emblem Health and Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce representatives, in particular, all ongoing, should bring benefits to the Barbadian community in New York and, hopefully, Barbados.

The hosting of polo day at Green-

wich Polo Club, Connecticut, thanks to BTMI, also threw up a number of business leads, outside of tourism travel. Meeting the youngest representative in New Jersey State legislature resulted in another avenue engagement in that State besides existing links with Plainfield and Newark.

Consulate also opened discussions with the Queens Borough President for the first time and continued working with the organizers of the Africa Day online, all-day event to get back on track plans for a Caribbean-African Diaspora Summit in train since 2019.

Efforts also continued to get Barbadians and interested individuals interested in bringing investments or programmes to Barbados that could either add to existing businesses or enhance an area designated as a future income plank.

Among them, work has begun with noted filmmaker Kerwin Devonish to establish a film programme

in Barbados, second generation talent manager Tasha Stoute and her business partner Larry Shields completed an exploratory trip at the end of October on introducing a new music festival. The team of James Railey, from New York, and Marilyn Hopkins, based in Los Angeles, who are interested in cotton based fabrics and clothing manufacturing, were hosted in Barbados by CG Holder in August.

There are also ongoing discussions with a group, coordinated by Aubrey Padmore, on Derek Automotive, an alternative energy company, with a specialty in retrofitting, to explore opportunities in Barbados.

Consulate will continue the various discussions, but based on this year, 2023 looks ripe for a range of new initiatives to bear fruit in Barbados and to realize improvements in various communities where Barbadians live in the jurisdiction.

Associations Out and Celebrating

Associations pretty much took over the month of October, so much so that there was sometimes an overlay of events. Too bad for the CG.

Two years of pause gave way to a welcome return to in person events, for the majority. Just as refreshing has been the efforts by organisations to improve their events in all ways.

Further, the celebrating of milestones of longevity by a number of them brought new respect for the hard work and sacrifice of the many to build these institutions and, in the face of challenges, especially ageing, gave hope that there is still plenty of life in Barbadian associations yet.

Cambridge marked 55 years with a series of events including a well-supported bus ride and a gala featuring Red Plastic Bag. The Nurses Association also celebrated 55, with a stellar afternoon event, a departure from the norm, at Glen Terrace. The Association for Aid to the Physically Challenged of Barbados marked their 50th anniversary with a service and St. George Old Scholars marked their half century at a different space than the popular Palace, K& L Manor. Springer Memorial Alumnae celebrated 25 years.

While most concentrated efforts this year on hosting fund-raising

galas, others brought back their regular programmes – Ex-Police and Cambridge - while a few, including Caribbean American Medical & Scientific Association, (CAMSA), Darryl Jordan and Harrison College Queens College Association, (HCQC), continued activities online. These included popcorn fundraisers and various seminars.

Notably, Friends of Barbados DLP brought back Barbados Day and United Barbadians in Massachusetts, (UBIM), and Friends of Barbados in Connecticut, (FOBCT), remerged with galas, UBIM having one of their best in years with the addition of live music performances from Archie Miller and violinist Wesley Morris.

Live performances is now a thing, with Archie Miller, Mike Remie and Phil Brathwaite almost at every event. Supporters have also appreciated the efforts with décor, photography and other touches. Nurses knocked it out of the park and FOBCT added two interesting cultural presentations to their galas.

Continuing its growing reputation for being different, the Barbados Support Group, (BSG), hosted a CPR session. Cambridge, Nurses and Foundation Old Scholars held walks, the latter in honour this year of Hat-

tan Callender, husband of President Beverley Callender, who died earlier in the year.

CAMSA by itself and in partnership presented very stimulating online events. It was a pity a bigger audience was not garnered for the outstanding, somewhat long, November presentation on women’s health.

Mention must be made of Bajan Diaspora Online. While not an organization in the traditional way, this group of friends from New Jersey, coordinated by Mary Yearwood, is more than worthy of inclusion in this article. It ranks as probably the most supportive of associations and all Barbadian activities. Further, the grouping hosted the Tribute to Jiggs Kirton in his memory, donated substantially to a fundraiser for the Maloney family that lost everything in a house fire and, among others, remains committed to the sustainability of the Richard Stoute Talent Show.

It is expected that all associations will be in action and running on all cylinders next year, with full programming for Barbadian communities with benefits to Barbados. Next year is looking like a great year packed with activities.

Consulate remains committed to working with organisations and will be executing already discussed plans to help these important organs keep pace with changes and continue to improve their structures and operations.

St. George Secondary School

Old Scholars International, (SGSI), has a new executive, headed by Mrs. Ira Carrington-Caddle as president for a two (2) year term, and is back with renewed vigour.

At the beginning of October, the new committee kicked off post Covid19 with its 50th Anniversary Evening of Elegance, a success. Many associations came out in support, including a newly added group from the British

Virgin Island, Tortola.

Part of the proceeds from the event will assist in the restoration of the Long Jump Pit for the athletes and the academic achievements of students.

SGSI will be undertaking a slew of events in 2023: Valentine PartyFebruary, Tea Party-April, Father’s Day Dance- June, Virtual & In Person Bingo NightNovember, Double Good Fundraiser – date TBD.

St. George Refueled… and Rearing to Go HCQCAA Reaching Goals

HCQCAA, USA, continued its programs, mostly online, including supporting other associations and updating members. The joint Webinar on Women’s Health with CAMSA was well received.

The Book Club, going strong, read No Man in the House by HC alumnus Cecil Foster, who contributed to the discussion, Sex Drugs and Murder -Unsolved Murders in Barbados by QC alumna Kim Ramsey, who attended the open event, and is now reading George Lamming’s In the Castle of My Skin.

Daria Cave, QC alumna and primary school teacher, spoke at the first Quarterly Meeting, on the needs of rural primary school children about to enter secondary school.

QC alumna, Karolyn Maynard, who is helping disadvantaged students build successful careers in IT, will speak at the December meeting.

Queen’s College won the flagship Virtual Fundraising Walk. Over US $3000 was raised for the Improve -

ment Campaign and the scholarship funds created last year. Another race is planned for next year.

Scholarships from this year’s fundraiser will assist primary school children from rural areas who enter HC and QC in first form. The first awards through the Junior Moore Memorial Scholarship Fund for HC and the Angela Forde Memorial Scholarship Fund for QC will be awarded to successful entrants in the September 2023 school year. The vision is to expand the fund to help deserving tertiary level students.

In 2022, under the umbrella Harrison College Queen’s College Alumni Network, (HCQCAN), the Improvement Campaign, launched last year, has reached Bds $100,000 in pledges, pre-orders of the commemorative publication and donations. Support was given to equipping the Pavilion at QC completed this year. The association is in the process of funding the drawings for the additional science labs at Harrison College.

The Conference on Education for

the Future will take place on 2 and 3 December. Day one participation will be in person at Queen’s College and online, while Day 2 will be online.

The Annual Virtual Uplifting Fundraising Concert will take place on Thursday, 22 December and there will be a major fundraiser in Barbados on 1 July, 2023. This musical clash between the two schools will be a tribute to Janice Millington, QC alumna and former teacher at HC, and the two principals of the schools, Dr. David Browne, QC and Ms. Juanita Wade, HC. Proceeds will go to the Improvement Campaign.

Planning has begun, and nominations sought, for the Night of the Stars Awards, scheduled for 21 October, 2023 in Barbados.

HCQCAA is also collaborating with the Old Harrisonian Society, (OHS), as it prepares for commemorating in 2023 the 290th anniversary of Harrison College.

HCQCAA, USA remains committed to helping the diaspora contribute to Barbados’ goals.

BSG Rolling Along

Barbados Support Group, (BSG), the youngest Barbadian association, continues to impress with its activities and partnership with the Consulate, as it quietly builds its membership.

This year, it also set out to support fellow Barbadian associations as it works to establish itself in the community, and was present at the fundraising events of the Nurses, Springer, BACA and St. George Old Scholars, along with that of the Panama Independence Committee and played a major role in the one for the Maloney family.

The BSG’s first event, in Spring, was a CPR training session open to the community, put in place by former President and founding member, Sonia Clarke. Some 15 persons received an introduction to the life-saving process. CPR in May compliments the Barbados Support Group, (BSG).

The give back was held at Suede Restaurant, which donated the space, and conducted by a staffer of the Staten Island Heart Society. Graduates were certified.

Coming off the success of the 2021 Barbados Gala, which was executed with the Barbadian Ex-Police Association, the BSG partnered with United Barbadians in Boston, (UBIM), for the Boston Spring Fling. It also managed the Pop Up Wind Down as part of Barbados in New York, (BYork), week in association with the Consulate and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., (BTMI), and held a Grab and Go during Labour Day weekend that was oversubscribed.

Its major event was the tribute and send off for founding member Earl Phillips, former Secretary Treasurer of the Transit Union Workers, TWU 100. Phillips retired earlier this year and returned to Barbados to live.

The surprise event brought out an array of public figures, headed by New York City Mayor Eric Adams and State Attorney-General Letitia James; a large contingent from TWU 100, heads of associations and friends and family of Phillips.

The BSG’s final event for the year will be the management of the Barbados Gala 2022. With unprecedented support, it will be the biggest gala to date and, hopefully, the best.

Next year, the group’s activities will include another CPR session, fund raising events in Spring and Summer including another Brunch with Barbados, the activity that

launched it in 2021. There are also plans for a major community activity, spotlighting health, Barbadian small businesses and New York services, as well as a sports event.

The BSG, which purchased two chairs for the Paediatric Ward of the QEH, among other donations to Barbados, will also continue its support to worthy causes and of the Barbados Consulate.

CALL for CARE BUDDIES Continues…..

Dr. Angela Jennings, Head of the Paediatric Ward, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, (QEH), and nurses who work with kids at the lone tertiary care facility, remain happy with the Care Buddy Project.

But it is the heart warming reaction of the kids and the reports of how the toys are helping kids at the QEH that make the Project so worthwhile.

In fact, so popular is the Project, which started in 2019 with the objective of providing every child admitted to the Paediatric Ward with a stuffed today, that Treva Holder was asked to expand it to young kids who contracted Covid-19 as well as those who have to be taken to A&E.

To date, more than 800 stuffed toys have been provided to children, from newborns to age 12. Deliveries continued through the pandemic.

Holder, wife of Consul General Mackie Holder, started the project, inspired by the impact a stuff toy had on her niece who was given one when she was admitted to hospital in the USA with Type 1 diabetes at 12. Now 29, she still has the toy.

The toys have a calming effect on children, help with pain management – they are allowed to have the toys when getting injections or chemo – and the recovery process.

To date, more than 50 individuals and five associations have contributed to the project over the past three years.

Mrs. Holder’s relationship with the care givers on the Paediatric Ward has led to support beyond the provision of care buddies. In the past, with the support from associations and individuals she has donated toys to the siblings of kids sick on the ward, organized the wish list for three teenage cancer patients and this year provided nebulizers and coordinated the request for replacement of the chairs used by parents in the Ward. Ten chairs were donated.

The former senior advertising executive and owner of her own media company intends to expand her support to the Paediatric Ward as well as launch other projects.

Persons who wish to donate to the Care Buddy Project can use the following link: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ ls/1LC4P66HOATE0?ref=cm_sw_em_r_wl_ dp_4diB4vRBkj9Hq

CG In, Out and About

Being with and among the Barbadian community is an important part of the mission of the Consulate. Community involvement ranges from attending association functions, church events, special occasions by Barbadians or friends of Barbados, saluting the advancement of individuals and in office meetings with visiting Barbadians or members of the community.

Every year throws up new things with changing circumstances, new approaches by associations and as more institutions and persons and the Consulate connect. Beyond dropping in on cricket, time at the Ex-Police, a session at one of the Barbadian hangouts or popping into a fete by one of the Barbados DJs, some of the other interactions were:

Lew “Jiggs” Kirton Tribute Concert - along with great performances, this Bajan Diaspora and Friends event allowed meeting Jiggs’ family and new groups of Barbadians. Truth is, would have attended for just the music. Lew “Zorro” Drayton, Archie Miller, who debuted Crop Over We Coming,

Phil Brathwaite, Mike Remie, Orlando Hinds Larry “Patches” Small, Peter Clarke and Darley Brown. Funds from the event will establish a scholarship in Jiggs Kirton’s name.

Nurse for a day - a different kind of experience at Maimonides Hospital, Brooklyn, facilitated by President of the Nurses Association, Cicely Wilkinson. Did the whole nurses thing - Ghanaian-born Pauline Anane was

members were second generation Barbadian brothers, Elombe Brath and Kwame Brathwaite. A very different group of people were met.

Rev. Canon Ryan Boyce, appointed in 2021, was instituted in May as the 10th Rector of St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, Hollis, Queens. The Celebrant and preacher was the Right Reverend Lawrence C. Provenzano, Bishop of the Diocese of Long Island.

my excellent mentor for the day. But it was a great networking event. Happy to have the opportunity to thank the hospital for their substantial donations to Barbados during the pandemic.

AJASS: Pioneers of the Black is Beautiful Movement – a documentary by Louise Dente that captures the history of a group of five men and their impact was shown at the Dwyer Cultural Center, Harlem, on 15 May to a packed audience.

AJASS was the force when afros was the thing, natural hair, African gowns hair wraps, all of which it pushed. Two

Kerwin Devonish – Long and productive session with the filmmaker known for his work with Spike Lee. With Barbados positioning the cultural sector as a growth area, Devonish should be a first choice for support in the film production area.

Rev. Dr. David Barrow – Mt. Zion Tabernacle Christian Mission of Panama Inc. marked the 32nd Pastoral Anniversary of its Senior Pastor with a service and Barbadian feast. The church is home to many Barbadians and descendants of Barbadians. Dr. Barrow coordinated the visit of the largest group of Panamanians to Barbados for the reunification of his church with the Christian Mission in Barbados after 100 years.

QEH Roundtable of Leaders & Influencers Addressing Renal Disease in Barbados: The Path Forward – a very informative and necessary exchange of ideas by most of the key persons involved in this area.

Kathy Elliot, an advocate against domestic violence, founder of Women’s Motivation Services and stronger supporter of Barbadian causes, held the Women’s Motivational Services –Men Supporting Women (New Initiative) Fancy Hats & Gloves Fundraiser Back to School Free School Supplies. A very different event, part worship service, inspirational cheerleading and fun.

Maloney Family Fund Raiser

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Following an approach by Michelle Brathwaite of the Barbados Support Group, (BSG) and Linda GreenidgeKirk of the popular Palace event space, we got behind the effort to assist the Maloney family who lost their home in a fire. An encouraging rallying around a Barbadian family in need. A splendid donation was made by Bajan Diaspora Online.

Caribbean Heritage Month event hosted by Assemblywoman Jaime Williams and Senator Roxanne J. Persaud – one of the very few showcases that paid comprehensive tribute to Caribbean countries and cultures. Judy Newton set the Barbados stall apart.

Ocean House, Rhode Island –spent most of a day with Barbadian workers at the exquisite hotel when they held a Barbados Day. Very proud to hear President Dant Hirsch, and others, singing the praises of the Barbadians – and Barbados rum!

AFUWI Caribbean History Month celebration – joined fellow CGs Andre Laveau, Trinidad, and Jerimiah Hyacinth, St. Lucia, for a lively discussion, Great Minds are made in the Caribbean. A diverse group attended.

Polo at Greenwich Village – always delivers a variety of positive interactions. This year, a host of persons who love Barbados, have visited or will be visiting. Rum cocktails a sure hit.

Panama Independence Committee - the partnership continues to be worthwhile, with mutual support. Once again, we participated in the Independence Day parade.

Earl Phillips Retirement Function – happy to coordinate this deserved tribute to a Barbadian achiever and strong supporter attended by New York’s top officials, colleagues, family and friends.

This tech teaching non-profit could be replicated in

Donna Babb-Agard, QC. · A wide-ranging conversation with the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Michelle Gall – the relaunch of the Digital Girl space by this second generation Barbadian was another event that drew new contacts.

Barbados.

Chair of the Constitutional Review Committee – informative session with retired Court of Appeal Judge, Christopher Blackman. He is still hoping the Committee will come to New York and other cities.

Consulate Keeping Up Pace

This year has been another hectic one for the Consulate, from Consular work – passports, Barbadians returning home, to dealing with numerous and varied queries – to hosting events in the Community Room and in public.

A rousing Community Celebration, attended by old school friends, legal colleagues, family and friends, paid tribute to Hon. Sylvia Hinds-Radix who was appointed Corporation Counsel for New York City in January.

One of the most rewarding community sessions was a Zoom event on the new Trident ID card. It was certainly one of the best presented and a very interactive session.

A first was the joint Heroes Day service between the Consulate and Government offices in Canada – High Commission in Ottawa and Consulate General at Toronto. Held at St. Gabriel’s in Brooklyn, the service, apart from paying tribute to our heroes, allowed the attending and listening community to see some Barbadians who are upholding the flag in diverse places.

Educator and cricket aficionado, Jeff Broomes, also known for his somewhat controversial view, took

center stage when Consulate hosted a book launch, promoting his latest, The West Indies Cricket Journey and its Barbadian Influence.

In cricket parlance, rain, thunder and lightning, curtailed attendance but did not wash out play. The session was no less informative or full of strong opinions about the state of cricket in the Caribbean.

This year’s Consulate Community Fun Day and Picnic in Canarsie Park was deemed the Bow Tie Games in tribute to Hattan Callender, an avid cricket and all round sportsman, who died in February 2022.

A good turnout, a fun cricket match in which the Consulate’s team was creamed, dominoes on the side and old friends catching up made for a memorable day.

As usual, the Consulate was present at Barbados Day, which returned after two years. The Team tent, as always, was hive of activity with persons who had queries or taking copies of the various publications on display and some paraphernalia. Mayor Eric Adams went out of his way to pay a courtesy call.

Member of Parliament Neil Rowe and Senator Lorenzo Yearwood spent some time at the Consulate while attending a UN forum and this year, the Consulate was busier than usual as Prime Minister Mia Mottley was in town a few times other than the annual trip for United Nations General Assembly, (UNGA).

Consulate organized the Prime Minister’s Community Conversation at Downstate Health Sciences Uni-

versity, Brooklyn, which was well attended in person and online. Mottley opened up the floor early and the session went past the 9 pm scheduled end. The feedback was that it was one of the best of such sessions.

The day-to-day work of the Consulate has shown no let up and staff have kept pace. . In 2021, a record 759 passports were processed, 22 visas issued and 41 citizen by descent applications processed. Consular services totaled some US$145 704. 75. Some 37 persons also returned home.

So far this year, the demand has continued. Up to September 631 passports were processed, 66 visas, and 35 citizenship by descent applications. There have been 81 enquiries about returning home with 44 already in Barbados or expected there by yearend. Consular services realised US$131 170. 25 for the period.

Sadly, Team Barbados at New York said goodbye to some staffers. Leslie Gittens, long serving Senior Business Development Officer with Invest Barbados moved on as well as Delores Wallace, Secretary to the Consul General.

Additionally, Lionel Blackman, the Consul General’s driver, reached retirement time and, soon, Vice Consul Janelle Gibson, Accountant for both the Consulate and Permanent Mission, will be moving on to another overseas assignment.

Next year, will bring new challenges, including moving to a paperless office, but as it has demonstrated, the Consulate General of Barbados at New York will rise to the occasions.

Celebrating Centenarians

The list of Barbadian centenarians keeps going, with three new additions this year. Others celebrated going past the magic 100 years.

There are now ten known centenarians, including two who are 107 years old. The Consulate is

happy to salute all of them.

Among those who had celebrations this year were Verona Edwards, Eleanor “Aunt May” Mayhew, Everton “Daddy Hall”Hall and Gwen Goring.

Some celebrations were muted, due to concerns about Covid-19, in the case of Edwards. Mayhew, who at 107 is still the life of the party, lives in a senior’s home and her party was restricted to family and friends at the home. But Hall and Goring were celebrated in grand style, with family and friends gathering from all over the world. In both cases, all their children are still living and attended.

All Kinds of Support

Donations to Barbados are nonstop, from associations and individuals, to a range of institutions and causes, from cash to medical supplies.

Mostly, donations are unknown as Barbadians support their pet causes at home and associations keep up their support to, mainly, their alma maters or corresponding associations.

For instance, the Barbadian Ex-Police Association donated to the Browne family who needed support after caring for a daughter with lupus, to injured police officer Dale Jordan and to Alexcia Williams, the daughter of retired policeman Grenville “Floats” Cumberbatch, who was murdered last year.

The Combermere group is involved in the effort to build a sports facility at the school, HCQC is concentrating on providing scholarships and assisting with facilities while the Nurses Association’s assistance ranged from

support for a young lady needing eye surgery to the provision of scholarships and school supplies.

Among the known individuals contributing were Jennylynn Chase-Hoyte, who donated school supplies; Stacia Mason, who donated 21 wheelchairs, 20 bedpans and 55 packs of adult diapers worth over US$6 ooo, through her Cynthia Alleyne & Monica Butcher Foundation, to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, (QEH), and Dr. O’Neall Parris, who donated backpacks and medical supplies and Nurse Sonia Forde, who also donated medical supplies.

The Consulate kept up its support of the Paediatric Ward of the QEH. Among other things, it was involved in the donation of ten recliner chairs to the Ward by families and organisations. Chairs were sponsored by Lestra and Daniel Cox; Earl & Gail Phillips; Alicia Connell, Ira Carrington and Sonia Clarke; Shirley Holder and Virginia Mayers-Holder; Judge Sylvia Hinds-Radix and Dr Radix, Consul General Mackie and Treva Holder; Mayor Adrian Mapp, Plainfield Now and the Barbados Support Group.

The Consulate also facilitated the donation of US$5000 to the QEH, from Trinity Church Wall Street, Manhattan, secured by congregant Barbara Inniss.

With organisations back to holding public activities, and the increased public relations of the Consulate, Barbados should see an uptick in support.

BARBADIAN ORGANIZATIONS

A Better Life For Our People

P. O. Box 096

James E. Davis Post Office Empire Blvd, Brooklyn, NY, 11225

Chairman: Mr. Gregory Stevenson Tel: 917 971 1753 Email: vains@msn.com

Association Aid For Physically Challenged Children of Barbados

P. O. Box 120883

Brooklyn, NY, 11212

President: Mr. Von Karl Barker Tel: 718-314-0491 Email: barketvk@gmail.com

Barbados American Charitable Organization of New Jersey (BACONJ)

824 Central Ave Plainfield, NJ, 07070

President: Mrs. Jacqui Workman Tel: 908-217-7993 Email: baconjinc@gmail.com | jacquiworkman@gmail.com

Barbados Cancer Association, USA (BACA) Inc

P. O. Box 3094

Grand Central Station New York, NY, 10163-3094

President: Ms. Margaret Deane Tel: 718 749 2879 Email: MDeane@kobrand.com;

Barbadian Cultural Committee of Boston (BCCB) Inc P. O. Box 260120 Mattapan, MA, 02126

President: Ms. Gina Headley Tel: 617-9870-9116

Barbados Diaspora Collaborative USA (BDC USA) Inc

455 Tarrytown Road, Suite 1510

White Plains, NY, 10607

Chairman: O’Neall E. Parris, MD, MPH, FAAP Tel: 866-519-2226 Email: chairman@bdcusa.org

Caribbean American Medical & Scientific Association (CAMSA), Inc P. O. Box 3094

Grand Central Station, NY 10163

President: Mr. Edward Alleyne Tel: 718-308-6317 Email: info@CAMSA.org

Caribbean Heritage Association Inc P. O. Box 26235

Boston, MA, 02126

President: Ms. Pamela Clinton Tel: 617-519-9253 (cell) | 781-3414320 (h) Email: pamclint@comcast.net

Combermere Alumni Association P. O. Box 021183 Brooklyn, NY, 11202

President: Mr. Ian Watson Tel: 347-735-2506 (cell) | 212-9518523 (w) Email: ian.watson1@usbank.com | ianwat78@verizon.net | imwats78@ gmail.com www.combermerealumniusa.org

Daryll Jordan Secondary School New York Chapter Alumni (DJSSNYCA)

155-61 115th Road, Jamaica, NY, 11434

President: Ms. Julie Greaves Tel: 718-490-0921 Email: juliemgmango@gmail.com Treasurer: Lorna Austin Tel: 917-885-6728 Email: laustin712verizon.net Email: djssnyc1971@gmail.com

Friends of Barbados in Conneticut (FOBCT)

647 Middle Turnpike East, Unit C, Manchester, CT, 06040

President: Margo Eugene Tel: 1 860 569 9176 Email: friendsofbarbados@hotmail. com

Friends of Barbados DLP Association

P. O. Box 160522 Brooklyn, NY, 11216 President: Mr. David Edwards Tel: 347 666 3000

HCQC Alumni Association USA 257 Macon Street Brooklyn, NY, 11216

Co-Chairs: Ms. Mary Symmonds & Mr. Michael Ashby Tel: 646-470-0179 Email: hcqcalumns@gmail.com

The Barbadian Ex-Police Association

703 Crown Street Brooklyn, NY, 11213

President: Mr. Dennis Yarde Tel: 718 541 0080 Email: bepa703c@aol.com/dennis. yarde11@gmail.com

The Barbados Nurses Association of America

P. O. Box 231

Rugby Station Brooklyn, NY, 11203

President: Ms. Cicely Wilkinson Tel: 917-873-5820 Email: bnaa1967@gmail.com

The Barbados Support Group, Inc.

POB 360132

Brooklyn, NY, 11236

President, (ag): Ms. Michelle Brathwaite/Ms. Alicia Connell Tel: 347 524 8275 Email: bsgbarbados@gmail.com

The Foundation School Alumni Association

P. O. Box 528

Church Street Station Brooklyn, NY, 10008

President: Mrs. Beverly Callender Tel: 516-378-3792 Email: socabev@aol.com

Springer Memorial Alumnae Association

114-131 229th Street Cambria Heights, New York 11411

President: Ms. Grace Padmore Treasurer: Ms. Janice Smith Tel: 917-586-3685 Email: gpaddy155@gmail.com

St. George Secondary Old Scholars International

P. O. Box 120987 9402 Church Ave Brooklyn, NY, 11212

President: Ms. Ira Carrington Tel: 718 208 8086

St. Patrick’s Heritage & Community Association 47 Kings Road, Rockaway, New Jersey, 07866

President: Mr. Garvey Ince Tel: 201-572-1985 Email: gince@yahoo.com

United Barbadians In Massachusetts (UBIM)

P. O. Box 260951 Mattapan MA 02126

President: Ms. Maureen Prescod Tel: 508 631 2681 Email: maureenprescod@aol.com

SPORTS CLUBS:

The American Cricket League

1162 East 43rd Street Brooklyn, NY 11210

President: Mr. John Wesley King Tel: 917-345-8849

Email: americancricketleagueinc@ gmail.com

New Rochelle Cricket Club

P. O. Box 1643

New Rochelle, NY. 10801

President: Mr. Rupert Reid Tel: 914-582-0246 Email: nrcricketclub@optonline.net

Cambridge Cricket Club, Inc

P. O. Box 30080

Ruby Station, Brooklyn, NY, 11203

President: Ms. Alicia Connell Tel: 347 524 8275 Email: connellalicia@gmail.com

Somerset Cricket Club

5 St. Paul’s Place Apt 3C Brooklyn, NY, 11226

President: Mr. Alvin Howard Tel: 347-607-1952 | 347-863-9998

Vice President: Mr. Brian Austin

Barbados Cancer Association Executive. From left behind: Vashti Watson, Chair, Education Committee; Trevor Massiah, Events Chairperson; Pauline Clarke, Membership & Retention Chairperson.

From left front: Dian Duke, Assistant Secretary; Deborah Carrington, Secretary; Margaret Deane, President; Inell Jemmott, Vice President; Linda Watson-Lorde, Treasurer.

(Missing: Joanne Yarde, Assistant Treasurer; Diana Cadogan, Public Relations Chairperson)

Ex-Police Executive. From left: Dennis Yarde, President; Leroy Hutchinson, Vice President; Helen Walker, Secretary; Victor Barrow, Trustee; Marion Taylor, Business Manager; Leroy Gaskin, Treasurer; Tyrone Holder, Chaplain.

(Missing: 2nd Vice-President, Tyrone Holder; Assistant Secretary, Mr. Randy Weekes; Sergeant-at Arms, Geoffrey Thorne; Trustee, Norman Harper; Trustee, Gregory Stevenson)

CAMSA Executive Back, from left: Mrs. Sonia Clarke, IT/Tech; Rev. Conrad B Tillard; Ms. Janelle Taylor, IT/Tech; Ms. Joycelyn Gill-Campbell, Assistant Treasurer.

Front, from left: Margaret Deane, Vice President; Dr. Edward Alleyne, President; Mrs. Elsie Croal, Secretary.

(Missing: Danielle Rouse, Treasurer; Zorina Angela Trotman, Assistant Secretary)

Thank You

The Consulate General of Barbados at New, BTMI and Barbados Support Group thank everyone for your amazing support.

Consulate General of Barbados at New York

820 2nd Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY, 10017