Caribbean American Passport NewsMagazine - February 2012

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CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

NEWS MAGAZINE

Bob Marley, the legacy continues

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ore than three decades after Marley’s death, his legacy remains intact. Each generation feels as though they discovered " Bob Marley's music." His message of promoting peace through justice has transcended Jamaica, the land of his birth, and has impacted the world at large.

Marley's message was that inequality, not poverty was the problem, and it is a problem which should be addressed by revolutionary and unifying means. He challenged us to be the change we want to see, to disregard all the ‘isms and scisms” of colonialism, racism and every other divide.

In the Occupy Wall Street 2011, protesters used the lyrics of “Get Up, Stand Up” as their chant when they challenged social and economic inequalities.

When Chilean miner, Victor Zamora was rescued after being trapped below ground for 69 days in 2010, one of his first requests was to hear Marley’s “Buffalo Soldier”.

In 1980 when former British colony of Rhodesia was liberated and officially renamed Zimbabwe, Marley honored them by penning the record “Zimbabwe”

Continued on page 18

RYSE Magazine Celebrates the first African American to win a Grand AM Racing Series

Above: Elan jackson-Blount, Linda Moore Jason, Jonathan Sebastian Blount, Bill and Cheryl Lester On right: J.Jackson RYSECEO, Bill & Cheryl Lester Photos by Nancy Jo Brown / 106FOTO

See story on page 17

Jay and Angie Singh open 2nd location, now on International Drive Location...Singh's Restaurant & Bar

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he Caribbean Community now has an alternative for dining out in style. Jay and Angie Singh of Singh's Roti Shop have opened a new location with an elegant feel

Continued on page 17

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L I F E S T Y L E

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his issue is special to me. I love each issue that we've presented, however there are the special ones and this issue to me is a little different from our February issue a year ago. We're more grounded and settled into the community and just like we wanted to do we're reaching the Caribbean American Community and I'm learning so much more than I even knew about the community.

We also live in a wider American community and so you'll see we've featured a great story on the cover of this issue about the first African American racing Champion. In addition that story is also about RYSE magazine, a new magazine that has taken Orlando by it's collar, shaken it and said here I am, profiling amazing black people, who are doing phenomenal things - look at me. During Black History month it is important to salute both of these important people the racer and the team of RYSE magazine. We've also featured Bob Marley again during Black History month, as we did last year, and will probably continue to feature him every year but add updates to his legacy as they continue to come in. He has probably done more for Caribbean Awareness and a sense of unity than any politician in the Caribbean. If you don't believe me - put on a Bob Marley song in any caribbean country and see if people aren't singing along, or go down to Bob Marleys at Universal City Walk and look at the diversity of islands, races and ages that are enjoying his music and you will see what I mean.

This month we're introducing a new cartoonist to our team Ameer Bacchus, his cartoons will be featured every month in CAP News Magazine and he summed up his feelings about his caribbean heritage in an interview where he said "Living in North America, we're exposed to many different cultures, cuisines, music, etc... Adding this cartoon to this month's issue of the paper makes me incredibly proud. The reason I created this

ubscribe to Caribbean American Passport News Magazine today.

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For a limited time we are offering a one year subscription to CAP News Magazine at $25.00. This will also provide you with discounted admission to events, coupons for shopping at your favorite stores as well as updates on caribbean events coming up in our community.

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Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

newspaper was to give people who feel exactly like Ameer does, an opportunity to have a home. I love being from the Caribbean, it's my home, it's in my blood, it's why I do what I do.

Those of us with West Indian/Caribbean heritage have very diverse interests, hobbies, tastes, likes and dislikes. I, myself, listen to alternative rock and underground hip hop, read science fiction books by the dozen, practice magic tricks, love to cook, and take a sketchbook with me everywhere. But every now and then, I'll pass through a neighborhood filled with West Indians, and hear the sound of soca, chutney, or reggae coming from someone's car or garage, and my shoulders will begin to move involuntarily. Every now and then, I find myself slipping into my broken Guyanese dialect, because it's the best way to express myself to the people around me. And every now and then, a Jamaican cola and some doubles is the only thing that will crave my hunger. Loaded with hot peppa sauce, of course. I originally created Hot Peppa Sauce to give a few laughs to my family and friends. While the intent is still the same, the feedback from this comic has made me realize that I'm not the only one who needs a "West Indian fix" from time to time. The people of the West Indian nations have a shared history of enslavement, struggle, and achievement and are bonded by our own melting pot of flavors, values, and have developed our own rich cultural identity. One that deserves to be celebrated."

Adding this cartoon to this month's issue of the paper makes me incredibly proud, this is why I created this newspaper, to give people who felt exactly like Ameer did, an opportunity to have a home. I love being from the Caribbean, it's my home, it's in my blood, it's why I do what I do. We have a rich cultural heritage - one that makes us feel at home at an Asian Festival celebrating the New Year, or at an event celebrating Black History month or eating dhal and rice with our hands because the food just taste sweeter that way.

This year, I'm taking that pride with me as I take on the Presidency of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, I'm taking that pride with me as we showcase the Caribbean American Candidates running for office in 2012, I'm taking that pride as Caribbean American Passport works along with the Horizon Center to create a Caribbean Library at the Caribbean Cultural Center. I'm taking that pride as we present Caribbean business after Caribbean business in every issue of the paper, opening a new business in Central Florida - and adding jobs to the community. If you guys thought that, we showcased the caribbean last year, you ain't see nothing yet. Email us at capnewsmagazine to get a list of Caribbean Events that are coming up this year that we will be participating in...we invite you to join us.

Name ______________________________________ Date ___________ St. Address __________________________________________________ State _____ City _____________________________ Zip _______ ______ Phone ___________________ Email ______________________________ Signature ____________________________________________________

Please mail this subsciption with your check or money order to Caribbean American Passport News Magazine 1230 Hillcrest Street, Orlando, FL. 32803 • 407-427-1800 ! Yes this is a gift subscription from: _____________________________________________________

GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1230 Hillcrest Street, Orlando, FL 32803 407-427-1800 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com For Media Information email: capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Editor ............................................................................. Audrey Johnson Contributing Writers: ..................................................... Natasha Gittens ........................................................................................ Phillip Browne . .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell ................................................................................ Nouchelle Hastings Contributing Photographers ....................................... Nancy Jo Brown ......................................................................................... .Dilia Castillo Distribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

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State of the Union Address Gives President Obama Bragging Rights a family, and putting a little money away for retirement.

By Roger Caldwell

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resident Obama’s, 2012 State of the Union Address was a fired up, emphatic speech burning with passion and inspiration. His speech was over an hour and it was packed with innovative ideas, plans, and policies with a theme of, “An America Built to Last.”

President Obama from the very beginning as a presidential candidate has always emphasized change, and his belief that his job is to ensure that everyone in the country receives economic and political fairness. He has always been a proponent of shrinking the gap between rich and poor, and help jobless Americans get work and hang onto their homes.

“We can do this, I know we can. Now you can call this class warfare all you want. But asking a billionaire to pay as much as his secretary in taxes? Most Americans would call that common sense,” said the president. Throughout the entire speech the lawmakers would jump to their feet and applaud the president, when he made a powerful point.

Even the Republicans during certain points that the president made were motivated to applaud. When the president talked about improving our ability to be self sufficient in terms of energy, and increasing the drilling for oil in the country, the Republicans loudly applauded this point.

During this speech, the president took the time to blow his horn and do some bragging. “In the last 22 months, businesses have created more than 3 million jobs, and manufacturers are hiring again, creating jobs for the first time since 2005. Together, we’ve agreed to cut the deficit by more than $2 trillion. And we’ve put in place new rules to hold Wall Street accountable, so a crisis like this never happens again,” says President Obama.

“An America Built to Last.”

“We can either settle for a country where a shrinking number of people do really well, while a growing number of Americans barely get by. Or we can restore an economy where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules,” says President Obama.

Many Republicans on the other side of the fence label the president as a populist and a socialist. They also argue that the country is worse off in the last three years under the president’s administration, but they know that statement is not true. Some of the Republican candidates are telling the country that the president has not created any new jobs, but again they know it is not a true statement.

It was obvious that in this State of the Union Address the president was determined to set the record straight, and step on some toes. President Obama asserts that the country is getting stronger and the American dream is within our reach. He spoke of restoring basic goals such as, owning a home, earning enough to raise

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The Republicans and the conservatives can continue to argue that the president is spinning his wheels and achieving very little, but again that statement is false. They know that Osama Bin Laden has been killed, the unemployment rate is 8.5% and going down and there has been 22 months of job and economic growth. The war in Iraq has ended, and he has saved the auto industry and 1.5 million jobs.

“No we will not go back to an economy weakened by outsourcing, bad debt, and phony financial profits. Tonight, I want to speak about how we move forward and lay out a blueprint for an economy built on American manufacturing,” says the president.

It is obvious that President Obama may have to drag the stubborn Republicans and conservatives along fighting and screaming, but he is determined to get the job done. Imagine what could happen in the Congress and the country, if we focused on the mission at hand and we worked together.

You Are Invited to Attend: Meet the Candidate Series by Caribbean-American Passport - Rick Singh -

Candidate for Orange County Property Appraiser Saturday, March 3, 2012 from 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

You’re Invited!

Please join the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida Inc, Caribbean American Passport News Magazine & The Majestic Event Center For an evening of fun, conversation & Important Voter Information Under the Distinguished Patronage of the Consul General of Trinidad & Tobago The Hon. Dr. Anil Ramnanan as we host The First Caribbean-American Candidate for Orange County Property Appraiser.

Rick Singh Everyone is invited to rally together for this special fundraising & community-building event to help ensure that Rick Singh becomes the next Property Appraiser of Orange County.

March 3rd, 2012, 6pm -Majestic Event Center 801 North John Young Parkway Orlando, FL 32804.

Admission: Suggested Donation $5.00 Music by Insession Band Food & Drinks will be on sale To play a role in this event, please contact Guenet Gittens-Roberts 407-427-1800 For more information: http://capmagazinemeetthecandidate.eventbrite.com/ For more information: Full event details are available at Facebook/votericksingh.com or 407-278-1500 or Guenet Gittens-Roberts at guenet@ggrmarketing.com or 407-427-1800.

All contribution levels are welcomed from $5.00 - $500.00.

Contributions are limited to $500.00 per person or corporate entity. Please make checks payable to “Rick Singh Campaign” http://votericksingh.com/ www.caccfl.com www.issuu.com/caribbeanamericanpassport http://www.majestic-orlando.com/ POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY RICK SINGH, DEMOCRAT, FOR ORANGE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER.

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Offshore drilling rig arrives in Guyana

By Guyaneseonline.com CGX’s rig the Ocean Saratoga has arrived in Guyana

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EORGETOWN, Guyana (GINA) - The way has been cleared for the Canadian oil exploration company, CGX to commence drilling one of two wells in the Guyana offshore concession with the arrival on Sunday of the Ocean Saratoga, a semi-submersible drilling rig.

President and chief executive officer of the petroleum exploration company, Stephen Hermestone, made the disclosure after meeting Guyana’s President Donald Ramotar.

The Ocean Saratoga rig departed the Gulf of Mexico on January 1, en route to Guyana’s territorial waters, and on its way stopped off in neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago for refuelling.

Hermestone said that anchor lines were secured immediately after arrival and that drilling would be the next major operation.

The President and CEO of the company said he is hopeful of a good and safe operation and spoke with confidence about the operators conducting the drilling “We’ll see what the well results show us... we hope to find the oil ... you always plan for success,” Hermestone said.

Recently CGX announced that the 1,160 square kilometre 3D marine seismic contract that was publicised in December was completed.

Hermeston had reported that “The seismic data is expected to provide better imaging of the up-dip limits of the Eagle Deep stratigraphic play at the Turonian and Campanian and has provided us with the first 3D seismic coverage on our two early Cretaceous, Albian prospects (Crabwood and Kabukalli) which are underlying the Company’s 100% owned Corentyne offshore Petroleum Prospecting License (PPL). Fast track processing and interpretation of the data will commence on the Albian prospects and will be followed by processing, interpretation and compilation of the Eagle deep Turonian and Campanian prospects.”

Guyana is the second most attractive under-explored basin in the world with a potential of 15.2 billion barrels of oil. If oil is to be found, production targets would be estimated at 50 million barrels per year.

Ramotar has been keeping abreast with activities in the oil and gas sector and in the past week has met some of the main companies involved in offshore drilling, including Repsol, and Exxon Mobile.

Guyana is the second most attractive under-explored basin in the world with a potential of 15.2 billion barrels of oil.

Drilling of the Eagle Well will last for a 60-day period and 180 days for the Jaguar well. The latter is being pursued through a joint venture operation among CGX, Repsol a Spanish company, Tullow Oil of London and YPF.

Anadarko, America’s largest independent oil and gas company has signalled to the Guyana government, its interest in an offshore concession as it sees the South American country as one with a great deal of promise in the oil and gas industry.

CGX recently announced that acclaimed Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) professor, Guyanese born Dr Suresh Narine, has been appointed on the board of directors of CGX Energy Incorporated.

Last September vice president, business development of Anadarko, Ian Cooling, had met former President Bharrat Jagdeo with the proposal and on January 17 this year international business developer of the company, Richard Lapin, met Guyana’s new president with the same proposal.

He had expressed gratitude for the appointment and spoke of some of the benefits of Guyana as an oil producing economy against that of a fuel importer.

A US-based petroleum company Prime Energy LLC Caribbean proposed last year to construct a modular mini refinery on the local shores with a capacity to refine 20,000 barrels daily.

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An inspirational life . . .

Mayer Matalon: March 3, 1922 - February 3, 2012 From the Jamaica Gleaner

referred to by friends as ‘the Patriarch’.

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ayer Matalon, arguably Jamaica’s most lauded busi- “He always challenged managers to prove themselves,” said Patrick nessman, was laid to rest yesterday at the Jewish Rosseau, a friend and former colleague of the late businessman, who also described Matalon as a Cemetery on Orange “loving husband” and “an excelStreet following a service of lent communicator”. thanksgiving at the Sha’are Shalom Synagogue in Kingston.

Transport and Works Minister Dr Omar Davies told mourners Hundreds of mourners atanecdotes of his professional retended the synagogue on Duke lationship with the businessStreet in downtown Kingston to man, adding that it was a perpay their respects to the brilsonal honour to have been liant business leader, financier asked by the Matalon family to and negotiator, who contribgive a tribute. uted significantly to the development of Jamaica across mul“It was my distinct honour to tiple sectors. have known and worked with Mayer,” said Davies, who spoke The service started at 3 p.m., of a man who “lived a full life”. moments after high profile members of Jamaica’s political The final tribute was given by community took their seats at Photo Caption: Mayer Michael Matalon’s grandchildren carry the coffin the expansive synagogue that containing his body after the service of thanksgiving at the Sha’are Mayer’s only son, Joseph, who was built nearly a century ago. Shalom Synagogue on Duke Street in downtown Kingston yesterday. started his speech with a caveat.

Rudolph Brown/Photographer

“Mayer had a particular dislike Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller sat on the platform alongside two of the service’s officials for long speeches, so I will be brief,” said the incumbent presiand listened to tributes given to the 89-year-old, who was often dent of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ).

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Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control

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US-Caribbean security cooperation

arlier this month, the US Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control held a hearing to discuss the strengthening of existing security cooperation between the US and Caribbean countries, specifically in the areas of counternarcotics and violent crimes.

Ambassadors from the Bahamas, Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Ambassador Audrey P. Marks from Jamaica presented an overview and background analysis of the devastating relationship between drug trafficking, crime and economic growth. She said that currently, the government is focusing on “dismantling organized criminal networks, strengthening the Senator Dianne Feinstein chairing the meeting and co-chair security apparatus, establishment of a tracer system to track Senator Charles E. Grassley, stated that although the Carib- the origin of illegal firearms and the establishment of a nabean region was no longer the strategic route for narcotics traf- tional firearms database”. They are also pursuing the eradificking to the US, it was important to ensure that there will not cation, confiscation and destruction of illegal drugs and firebe an upswing due to the arms, and expanding sohigh rate of crime associcial intervention proated with drug traffickgrams, which include ing. Senator Feinstein conflict resolution and diemphasized that alversion programs for though the US has inyoung people. Ambassacreased its security assisdor Marks added that tance to Mexico and Central America, the Caribbean must not these stepped up efforts by the Jamaican Security Forces have be forgotten. She pointed to the significant coastal areas of resulted in a 44% decline in violent crimes since 2010, but the the fifteen Caribbean countries and the severe problems they level is still extraordinarily high. pose in terms of the patrolling and interdiction efforts.

Pointing to the severe socio-economic challenges facing the Senator Feinstein mentioned the creation by President Obama, region, Ambassador Marks presented three recommendaof the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) which pro- tions she believes would enhance cooperation between the vides security assistance to Caribbean Countries. Although US and the region. The Caribbean, she said, is the third funding to that program is expected to exceed $73m this year, border to the US, and should be treated with “the same dethe Senator said that drug-related violence in the area contin- gree of economic considerations as the other two”, as socioues to rise, with Jamaica having 52 homicides per 100,000 in economic development is crucial in the anti-crime strat2010, the fourth highest in the world. Concern was also ex- egy. She further implored the US to “strengthen your compressed regarding the growing ties between Venezuela and Iran, mitment to controlling the demand that continues to fuel with Venezuela being an important transshipment point for this trade which has adversely affected many lives in this illegal drugs to the US. Given this alliance, the Senators be- Hemisphere of ours”. In addition, the Ambassador asked lieve it is now imperative that these connections be taken seri- for assistance in ensuring that the producers of small arms ously before they pose a further threat to the security of other and ammunitions share the responsibility and significant nations in the region, including the Caribbean. costs of managing the flow of the illegal arms which she said contributes to the complexity of the existing violence Countries in the Caribbean were represented at the hearing by throughout the region.

Senator Feinstein emphasized that although the US has increased its security assistance to Mexico and Central America, the Caribbean must not be forgotten.

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$25B settlement reached over foreclosure abuses

By David McLaughlin, Lorraine Woellert & Dawn Kopecki has committed as much as $5.35 billion; JPMorgan $5.29 bil-

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ank of America Corp., JPMorgan Chase & Co. and three other U.S. banks reached a $25 billion settlement with 49 states and the federal government to end a probe of abusive foreclosure practices stemming from the collapse of the housing bubble.

In what the U.S. called the largest federal-state civil settlement in the nation’s history, the banks have committed $20 billion in various forms of mortgage relief plus payments of $5 billion to state and federal governments.

lion; Citigroup $2.2 billion; and Ally $310 million.

The total could grow to $40 billion if the next nine largest mortgage servicers sign on to the agreement, said an administration official who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity before the announcement. In a best-case scenario, if all banks participate fully, the deal could be worth $45 billion to homeowners and people who lost their homes to foreclosure, the official said.

This settlement will hold accountable institutions that wronged families and neighborhoods and “contributed to the collapse of not just the American economy but the international economy,” Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan said in Washington.

Reserves Set Aside “There are something like 10 millionBanks have probably already set aside plus homes under reserves to cover most of the costs for this water to the tune of settlement, Richard Bove, a bank anahalf a trillion dollyst at Rochdale Securities LLC, said in lars,” said Lynn Secretary Donovan announces the settlement at the Department of Justice an interview with Bloomberg Television.

Turner, the former in the company of Attorney General Eric Holder and Attorneys General chief accounting of- from affected states.

“In terms of the impact on the banks, ficer at the Securities it’s not going to be actually that sigand Exchange Commission and a managing director at consult- nificant despite the huge amount of money we’re talking ing firm Litinomics Inc. in Los Angeles. “I don’t think this settle- about,” Bove said. ment, which lets all the bank executives off the hook for filing false documents with courts, is going to make much of a dent.” JPMorgan, the largest U.S. bank by assets, won’t need to set aside additional reserves to cover its share of the agreement, The accord announced last week in Washington was 16 Kristin Lemkau, a spokeswoman for the New York-based bank, months in the making, following a move by states to investi- said in an e-mail. It expects that the financial impact on regate bank foreclosure practices in 2010. The deal will “begin sults for this quarter and future periods won’t be material. to turn the page on an era of recklessness” that led to the housing bubble, President Barack Obama said last week in Citigroup said in a statement it expects that existing reserves Washington, where he was joined by administration officials will be sufficient to cover customer relief payments and “all and state attorneys general. but a small portion” of the cash payment. The bank will adjust its fourth-quarter and full-year 2011 financial results to Five Biggest reflect an additional $84 million after-tax charge.

The nation’s five largest mortgage servicers — Bank of America, More Certainty JPMorgan, Wells Fargo & Co., Citigroup Inc. and Ally Financial Inc. — negotiated the settlement with federal agencies, “This settlement will help provide additional support for including the Justice Department, and state attorneys general. homeowners who need assistance, brings more certainty to the The deal comes more than a year after housing market attorneys general from all 50 states and aligns to our announced a probe into foreclosure ongoing commitpractices following disclosures that ment to help rebanks were using faulty documents to build our neighborseize homes. hoods and get the housing market Oklahoma reached a separate agreeback on track,” ment worth $18.6 million with the Dan Frahm, a banks and didn’t sign the federal settleBank of America ment, according to a statement from spokesman, said in the state’s attorney general, Scott Pruitt. a statement.

The $25 billion agreement includes $1.5 billion in payments to some Borrowers whose 750,000 borrowers who lost their homes loans are owned by to foreclosure. About $17 billion will banks and haven’t pay for mortgage debt forgiveness, forbeen pooled into bearance, short sales and other assis- Housing activists hold signs as they stage a demonstration in front of a mortgage bonds tance to homeowners. Servicers will home on the verge of foreclosure. will be most likely also provide $3 billion in refinancing to benefit from the to lower homeowners’ interest rates. A website has been set up agreement, said the administration official at the briefing. Borto give information on the settlement. rowers who suffered foreclosures from the start of 2008 through 2011 will be eligible for payment.

Cash Payments “There’s a wide array of issues and no one action is going to put Bank of America has committed as much as $11.8 billion, in- all of that to a close,” Mike Heid, Wells Fargo’s mortgage presicluding a cash payment of $3.24 billion, according to a gov- dent, said in an interview. “Today’s settlement is a big step forernment fact sheet. The balance will be applied toward mort- ward in a very substantial and meaningful piece of the business.” gage modifications and other benefits for borrowers. Wells Fargo — Continued on page 26 —

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Florida’s 2nd Annual Miss Indo-Caribbean Sapna Beauty Pageant!

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aturday January 28, 2012 marked the 2nd annual Indo-Caribbean Sapna Beauty Pageant held in Kissimmee, Florida at the Orlando Sun Resort. Event Organizer Seema Ragoobar, owner and director of Diya International Academy of Indian Performing Arts did a great job of bringing a talented group of individuals to showcase to the community for this cultural event.

From the youngest models at 4 years old to the young men and women vying for the crown, the group was well poised, well spoken and talented group and certainly were ‘shining the light on Indian culture’ at this event. Their performances represented a wide variety of talent from singing, dancing to answering ques-

tions on various subject matters including tradition, culture, family and relationships.

The participants in the events were prepared, ready and willing to proudly share their culture with the audience. For the first time, a male category was part of this competition. The young men did a great job of parading their cultural wear as well as their elegant evening wear. Congratulations to all the participants for taking the time to compete in this event.

The winners in each category are: Little Lady: Shayna Shankar age 4, Dutchess: Akaila Baboolall age 10, Princess: Christie Gosein age 16, Queen: Indira Pryia Persaud age 22 and King: Rehan B age 15.

Orlando welcomes Lt. Stitchie straight out of Jamaica . . .

Ritchie presents an ExtraorJ acqueline dinary Evening of Gospel in Concert &

Fashion Show on Saturday, March 24th 2012, at Rejoice in the Lord Ministries located at 8053 Gilliam Road, Apopka, FL 32703, featuring renowned Gospel King, Lt. Stitchie. Local gospel talents will share their amazing God given talents with you.

Sister Jascinth Brockington (formerly of the Grace Thrillers), Sister Arlene Aiken, Sister Shawna from Tampa, Brother Romayne Notice, Brother Javis Mays, Pastor Orain Willis, Sister Neuclon “Gee Gee” Young and Pastor Shakira to name a few.

Fashions by designer Marcila Brewster of Divinely Adorned, will get you ready for Easter. Music will be provided by the Higher Praise Gospel Band and the MC for the evening will be Glen Allgood from WOKB 1680 - “The Yolanda Adams Morning Show” Partial Proceeds to help combat Homelessness in Jamaica, and local Associations in Orlando.

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The Grenada American Educational and Cultural Organisation celebrated Grenada's 38th Year of Independence

n a message to Grenadians both at home and in the Diaspora- Prime Minister Tillman Thomas sent a message from Grenada urging Grenadians to look beyond their present circumstance to the potential of a people to fufill any aspiration and navigate any hurdle, if they work together to harness their skills and talents. GAECO as the association is known in Central Florida certainly does that with Grenadians and with the members of the Caribbean Communityto raise funds to donate to the Grenada National Patient Kidney Foundation each year after the

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fundraising ball. In 2011, a donation of $3000.00 was made to the foundation to supplement the fees for dialysis patients in Grenada.

Dr Kenrick Lewis, a Grenadian who is a Corporate Research Fellow with Momentive Performance Chemicals, was the guest speaker, the other honoree was Brooklyn-based Derek Ventour of DEE VEE International Productions. He was recognised for his exceptional contribution towards promoting Grenada’s and by extension Caribbean culture in the US.

Celebrity Chef Charles Mattocks named Official Spokesman for the ADA & kicks off of his National Diabetes Testing Tour

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embers of the Caribbean Community were at Center Court in the Simon Seminole Towne Center Mall, Sanford Florida, for the Official Kick-Off of the “The Diabetic You” National Diabetes Testing Tour! Celebrity Chef and Best Selling Author Charles Mattocks, aka “The Poor Chef” from The Dr. Oz Show, Good Morning America and the TODAY show who has dedicated his life to becoming the “Rock Star of Diabetes” to raise the awareness, broaden the education and expand the testing for this potentially tragic but preventable and treatable disease.

The event included healthy and affordable cooking demonstrations throughout the day by Chef Mattocks and other local Chefs, free Diabetes Glucose Testing by Integrative Health of Orlando and a donation of $5,000 in testing supplies from American Diabetes Wholesale. There was also

Free Blood Pressure Screening’s and information from Walgreen’s Pharmacy and Life Worth Living Pharmacy, in Center Court at the mall for shoppers pasing by! Dr. Reeves of Orlando Foot and Ankle and The Heal2Gether Organization provided free foot screenings to those living with Diabetes and Neuropathy.

There was a wonderful raffle giveaway from Walgreen’s Pharmacy, a book signing by Charles and much more to entertain people as they stopped by the area.

Charles Mattocks is the nephew of Reggae Super Star Bob Marley, and has been named the Official Spokesman for the American Diabetes Association 2012. Learn more at his campaign to reach the public with diabetes awareness at www.the poorchef.com and www.thediabetic you.com as he travels the USA to reach and test 1 million people.

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Caribbean Gospel V

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hristine Gordon Productions was birth out of frustration. Yes it sounds funny but true. Christine relocated to Florida in 2005 after living in NY for 29 years. She got her start in coordinating Gospel concerts through her cousin Dr. Norris Weir when he came to Orlando to perform. “ I was absolutely blown away by his amazing voice, his showmanship and his gut wrenching testimony. I left that concert feeling that Central Florida was missing out because he was not known in this area. I wanted to see him return to Orlando but of course, my thought was that someone else had to do it since I had no experience in marketing/promoting or event planning. “ Christine told CAP NewsMagazine.

After that concert, she started attending many gospel con-

I was absolutely blown away by his amazing voice, his showmanship and his gut wrenching testimony. I left that concert feeling that Central Florida was missing out because he was not known in this area. certs with the hopes of getting someone to bring Dr. Weir back to Orlando, and she recalls being very frustrated, because a lot of the concerts she attended were marred with long delays, faulty audio equipment and a lack of organization. On the way home after another one of those events, Christine spoke with Dr. Weir and received encouragement which gave birth to Christine Gordon Productions and Caribbean Gospel Xplosion. On March 19th, you’ll be able to enjoy Caribbean Gospel Explosion V with Dr. Norris Weir, and a stellar lineup of performers including Carlene Davis, Stefan Peninsilyn, Dr. Fay Weir, Dian Morgan, Ramona Lawla, Tommy Cowan and much more at the Worship Center in Orlando - 8001 Silver Star Rd. Orlando, Fl. 32818.

Steel Drum Band wins again

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he Caribbean Crew Steel Drum Band Has Won Two More National Awards, Including The Prestigious Top Corporate Event Entertainer Award

The Caribbean Crew is the first-ever winner of the prestigious Gigmasters Rising Star Award for being the Top Corporate Event Entertainer in North America. The band received the award because it booked more corporate events than any other GigMasters entertainer in The United States and Canada. That means The Caribbean Crew beat out 10,000 entertainment acts and vendors to win the award.

The Caribbean Crew also won the 2011 Gigmasters Rising Star Award for being the Top Steel Drum Band in all of North America. The award is given out for outstanding achievement in live music and event entertainment bookings. The Caribbean Crew was the highest earning steel drum band throughout The United States and Canada. This is the fifth year in a row that the band has received this prestigious award.

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RYSE Magazine Celebrates the first African American to win a Grand AM Racing Series — Continued from page 1 —

By Roger Caldwell

“The 2010 census came out and Florida now has the second largest population of African Americans in the country, with New York being first. There is a growing demographic with diverse emerging markets with large disposable incomes that very few people are aware of,” says J Jackson. Just as the minority market is emerging and growing, the magazine has begun to expand and grow in distribution and circulation.

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n honor of Black Histor y Month, RYSE Magazine (Recognizing Young Successful Execu-tives and Entrepreneurs) held it’s unveiling of its newest cover. The cover features Pat Nix and Willie Fischer, Owners of Front-Line Promotions, which specializes in the planning and execution of special entertainment events and marketing campaigns. The two are also the owners of Draft Global Lounge and Grille located directly across the street The magazine focuses on emerging minority entrepreneurs, sucfrom the Amway Center, home of the Orlando Magic. cessful businesses, and professionals, who are educated with a variety of resources. These new power brokers are connected to At this event, the magazine the different social, business recognized the achievements and political infrastructures, of Bill Lester, who received and they are new players at the RYSE Trailblazer’s Award the corporate boards and poas the first African American litical tables. In this new gloto win in a Grand AM Racbal generation, networking ing Series. His wife Cheryl and expanding dimensions in Lester, Regional General business will be the core funManager for Wal-Mart, was damentals for success. During also recognized at the event. the event, there were cards and “RYSE has created a platform numbers exchanged, and evof diverse qualified profeseryone was talking, as there sionals, to showcase compawere deals being made. nies’ diverse initiatives, and to engage with the minority RYSE is a platform to recogconsumer as a potential cusnize those who are excelling tomer,” says Publisher/Editor in Chief J. Jackson Sr. in our community, whose talents and contribution are often overlooked. At the event, Rhea McCauley, the niece of Rosa The RYSE Magazine event was packed at the fabulous Terrance (McCauley) Parks was recognized for her outstanding work in 390, with a diverse collaboration of professional women and men, keeping her aunt’s legacy alive around the world, celebrating who were dressed to impress. As one of the event sponsors, Tony her Aunt’s 99th birthday.

Jenkins, President of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida was on hand and offered a few positive words to the audience of business You can join RYSE during the “All-Star Weekend Legends Recand community leaders. Everyone enjoyed the phenomenal enter- ognition Celebration” at Tavern on the Lake, on Fri. Feb.24, tainment from Cece Teneal & Soul Kamotion, who kept the crowd 2012, from 6:00 P.M to 11:00 P.M. The cost for general admison their feet. As the magazine continues to increase it’s demographic sion is $25.00 dollars, which includes a dinner buffet, and live and circulation, it broadens its appeals to a wider audience. entertainment featuring Dayve Stewart.

Jay and Angie Singh open 2nd location, now on International Drive Location...Singh's Restaurant & Bar — Continued from page 1 — to add to your caribbean dining experience. Located on the southwest corner of Kirkman Road and International Drive, Singh's Restaurant offers a fusion of Caribbean Flavors. With choices ranging from Indian, African, Chinese, Portuguese and other flavors the menu is an absolute delight of the senses.

The formal seating and dining experience coupled with a friendly staff with an aim to please attitude - makes Singh's the place to take family and friends for a night out to get a taste of the island experience.

They are open for business but will have a Caribbean Extravaganza Styled Opening on April 14th that will be free to the public and will provide entertainment for every age.

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Bob Marley — Continued from page 1 —

and then singing it live as a tribute to the trials of that nation.

In Thailand, February 6th, Marley’s birthday is celebrated as Waitangi Day. It is a three day festival which marks the unifying treaty signed between the indigenous Maori and the European settlers.

In August 2008, a statue of Marley was unveiled in war tor n Serbia and Croatia: the monument’s inscription reads “Bob Marley, Fighter for Freedom, Armed with a Guitar.”

We celebrate Robert “Bob” Nesta Marley during Black History Month for two reasons - his resounding impact on the world and the fact that in February we celebrate his birthday. Born on February 6, 1945, he was born to eighteen year old Cedella Malcolm and fifty year old Captain Norval Marley. Captain Marley was not physically present in his life, but did provide financial support and Bob grew up in a rural community, in which fables, storytelling, and many African traditions were still practised. In his early teenage years, Bob left Nine Miles, in favor of Kingston’s Trench Town. Trench Town was a low income community in Jamaica, where Bob’s musical talent was nurtured. It was in the Trench Town community that Bob earned his nickname Tuff Gong (for his fighting skills). In spite of, or maybe because of, his humbling beginnings Bob Marley ascended and became the first international musical superstar to emerge from the Third World.

In 1980 Marley received the Medal of Peace of the third World from the United Nations and also the Order of Merit from the Jamaican government for the efforts made by the songwriter and artist to promote justice and peace.

One of his famous quotes, “At school the teacher say 'Who can write, write. Who can sing, sing.'

So me sing.” hangs at the Bob Marley, A tribute to Freedom club at Universal City Walk, here in Orlando.

Working closely with Rita Marley and the Bob Marley Foundation, Universal City Walk, has created a replica of Bob’s home on 56 Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica. Inside, artifacts, photos, and video clips from his legendary career surround visitors in the open-air veranda and courtyard. Marley’s songs of faith, hope, rebellion, and determination have brought inspiration and joy to audiences everywhere and will be featured there in a special Birthday Jam, featuring Stephen Marley on Saturday. February 25th.

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Some blacks insist:

‘I’m not African-American’ T

By JESSE WASHINGTON | Associated Press

he labels used to describe Americans of African descent mark the movement of a people from the slave house to the White House. Today, many are resisting this progression by holding on to a name from the past: “black.”

For this group - some descended from U.S. slaves, some immigrants with a separate history - “African-American” is not the sign of progress hailed when the term was popularized in the late 1980s. Instead, it’s a misleading connection to a distant culture.

The debate has waxed and waned since African-American went mainstream, and gained new significance after the son of a black Kenyan and a white American moved into the White House.

President Barack Obama’s identity has been contested from all sides, renewing questions that have followed millions of darker Americans:

Morgan acknowledges that her homeland of Jamaica is populated by the descendants of African slaves. “But I am not African, and Africans are not African-American,” she said.

In Latin, a forerunner of the English language, the color black is “niger.” In 1619, the first African captives in America were described as “negars,” which became the epithet still used by some today.

The Spanish word “negro” means black. That was the label applied by white Americans for centuries.

The word black also was given many pejorative connotations a black mood, a blackened reputation, a black heart. “Colored” seemed better, until the civil rights movement insisted on Negro, with a capital N.

“Africa was a long time ago. Are we always going to be tethered to Africa? Spiritually I’m American. When the war starts, I’m fighting for America.”

What are you? Where are you from? And how do you fit into this country?

“I prefer to be called black,” said Shawn Smith, an accountant from Houston. “How I really feel is, I’m American.”

“I don’t like African-American. It denotes something else to me than who I am,” said Smith, whose parents are from Mississippi and North Carolina. “I can’t recall any of them telling me anything about Africa. They told me a whole lot about where they grew up in Macomb County and Shelby, N.C.” Gibré George, an entrepreneur from Miami, started a Facebook page called “Don’t Call Me African-American” on a whim. It now has about 300 “likes.”

“We respect our African heritage, but that term is not really us,” George said.

“We’re several generations down the line. If anyone were to ship us back to Africa, we’d be like fish out of water.”

Then, in the 1960s, “black” came back as an expression of pride, a strategy to defy oppression.

“Every time black had been mentioned since slavery, it was bad,” says Mary Frances Berry, a University of Pennsylvania history professor and former chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Reclaiming the word “was a grass-roots move, and it was oppositional. It was like, ‘In your face.’”

Afro-American was briefly in vogue in the 1970s, and lingers today in the names of some newspapers and university departments. But it was soon overshadowed by African-American, which first sprouted among the black intelligentsia.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson is widely credited with taking African-American mainstream in 1988, before his second presidential run.

Berry remembers being at a 1988 gathering of civil rights groups organized by Jackson in Chicago when Ramona Edelin, then president of the National Urban Coalition, urged those assembled to declare that black people should be called African-American.

“We respect our African heritage, but that term is not really us . . . We’re several generations down the line. If anyone were to ship us back to Africa, we’d be like fish out of water.”

“It just doesn’t sit well with a younger generation of black people,” continued George, who is 38. “Africa was a long time ago. Are we always going to be tethered to Africa? Spiritually I’m American. When the war starts, I’m fighting for America.”

Joan Morgan, a writer born in Jamaica who moved to New York City as a girl, remembers the first time she publicly corrected someone about the term: at a book signing, when she was introduced as African-American and her family members in the front rows were appalled and hurt.

“That act of calling me African-American completely erased their history and the sacrifice and contributions it took to make me an author,” said Morgan, a longtime U.S. citizen who calls herself Black-Caribbean American. (Some insist Black should be capitalized.)

She said people struggle with the fact that black people have multiple ethnicities because it challenges America’s original black-white classifications. In her view, forcing everyone into a name meant for descendants of American slaves distorts the nature of the contributions of immigrants like her black countrymen Marcus Garvey and Claude McKay.

Edelin says today that there was no intent to exclude people born in other countries, or to eliminate the use of black: “It was an attempt to start a cultural offensive, because we were clearly at that time always on the defensive.”

“We said, this is kind of a compromise term,” she continued. “There are those among us who don’t want to be referred to as African.

And there also those among us who don’t want to be referred to as American. This was a way of bridging divisions among us or in our ideologies so we can move forward as a group.”

Jackson, who at the time may have been the most-quoted black man in America, followed through with the plan.

“Every ethnic group in this country has a reference to some land base, some historical, cultural base,” Jackson told reporters at the time. “African-Americans have hit that level of cultural maturity.”

The effect was immediate. “Back in those days we didn’t talk about things going viral, but that’s what you would say today.

It was quite remarkable,” said the columnist Clarence Page, then a reporter. “It was kind of like when Black Power first came in the ’60s, there was all kinds of buzz among black folks — Continued on page 26 —

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Ten Rules for the Ride of Your Life from Life Coach Merrill Frailey

By Audrey Johnson

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ith the analogy of a bus ride, Speaker, Life Coach and Writer Merrill Frailey invited attendees at the Women of Wisdom gathering to be the CEOs of their time by being in charge of their destiny, taking the steering wheel and do what makes them most fulfilled.

She encouraged them to move their bus in the right direction, and fuel their ride with positive energy. Women, she said, should step out of the box, decide where they want to go, what their desires are and move forward in that direction. She stressed the need for focus, adding that if “you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time”.

The Life coach said that those on your bus should be your support system, share your vision and purpose for the road ahead, and that no time should be wasted on those who are negative.

Negativity, she stressed, is a self-defeating emotion belonging to those she described as “energy vampires”. The bubbly and enthusiastic speaker said that enthusiasm attracts more passenger s and energizes them, and by employing the five love languages of touch, affirmation, time, service and gifts, people can show love, enjoy peace and bring out the best in others while changing their lives for the better.

The Women of Wisdom conference took place at the Circa Restaurant in Winter Park. It is a diverse group of professional women united under the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, known as CACCF with the goal of engaging, connecting and enriching women’s lives. The conference was previously chaired for the past two years by 2011 CACCF Board member Mary Ann Sheriff, with a planning committee that included Past President Carol Singh and Current President Guenet Gittens-Roberts, however that mantle has been passed on to Sultana Haque-Bolet, an active member of the committee for the past two years and a member of the 2012 Board of Directors of CACCF.

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For more information: (407) 427-1800 or email directly to guenetroberts@yahoo.com Guenet Roberts - CACCF Resource Directory

The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Inc. (CACCF) elects new officers, Publisher of Caribbean American Passport, Guenet Gittens-Roberts elected President

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he Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Inc. (CACCF) held its annual elections at the end of January and elected Guenet Gittens-Roberts as President. Guenet has volunteered in the Caribbean Community in Orlando over the past 7 years and held positions with a caribbean focus as Vice-President of Caribbean Affairs at Realty World Orlando and Program Director for 3 years of the Caribbean American Business Expo. Currently she is President of GGR Marketing & Public Relations and the Publisher of Caribbean American Passport NewsMagazine. GGR Marketing & Public Relations specializes in introducing businesses to the Caribbean Community in Orlando and works through Caribbean American Passport NewsMagazine, a weekly Caribbean Events Blog and outreach through caribbean events held in Orlando to reach the diverse Caribbean community in Orlando. She has been an active member of the Caribbean Community in Central Florida for the past 4 year, two of which she served as Vice-President As President of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Inc., Guenet is charged with leading the CACCF to a new level of awareness in the Caribbean and American com— Continued on page 24 —

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ImmigrationTALK

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Commentary on Proposal for Stateside Processing of Waivers

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

with his/her family while a decision is being made on the waiver. However, if the waiver is approved then the illegal immigrants leaves the U.S., picks up their immigrant visa from the Embassy abroad and re-enters the U.S. with the approved n January 6, 2012, the Depart waiver (no longer subject to the 3 or 10 years ban). ment of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that a new BAD - The potential pitfall in this proposal is what may hapregulation will be drafted and hopefully pen to waivers filed in the U.S. that are denied. Currently, published which would allow waivers re- when a petition or waiver is denied, DHS places the person into removal or deportation proceedings. So, the BAD aslating to unlawful presence to be filed stateside or in the U.S. With this new process, which is not law yet, pect of this proposal is illegal immigrants with denied waivonce the waiver is approved in the U.S., then individuals would be ers may be placed into removal/deportation proceedings. required to leave the U.S. and pickup their immigrant visas from the Also, when the illegal immigrant travels abroad with the U.S. Embassy abroad and return to the U.S.. As an immigration approved waiver, he may have other unanticipated issues attorney for 12 years, I commend DHS for proposing this initiative, at the U.S. Embassy abroad that may require a different waiver be filed at the Embassy. If the Embassy requires anbut it may be GOOD and at the same time BAD for immigrants. other waiver and it is denied then the illegal immigrant is GOOD - This proposal would allow individuals who have left stuck in his native country. Remember, the proposal been in the U.S. illegally and therefore subject to the 3 or 10 only covers unlawful presence waivers and does not other year ban if they leave the U.S. to file a waiver in the U.S. show- waivers for crimes, fraud, misrepresentation, etc. So, aning “extreme hardship”. The current process for individuals other BAD aspect of this proposal is that the Embassy abroad who are in the U.S. illegally and not eligible to apply for a may create another roadblock to prevent the illegal immi“green card” or residency in the U.S. is for them to apply at the grant entry into the U.S. U.S. Embassy in their native country. However, the hesitation for many immigrants in leaving the U.S. for processing at the The details for this proposal are still being drafted and readers Embassy abroad is that when they leave the U.S., they are then should wait for the final regulation to be published before seeksubject to a 3 or 10 years ban from returning to the U.S. based ing advice from an immigration attorney. Note, you should on the time they spent illegally in the U.S. This proposal would consult with an immigration attorney before leaving the U.S. only apply to waivers for unlawful presence and would not for processing abroad as you may be subject to a ban from reinclude waivers for any other grounds of inadmissibility. The entering the U.S. If you have any questions or comments, please GOOD is that it allows the illegal immigrant to be in the U.S. email: Gail@Go2Lawyer.com.

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“May the works I have done speak for me”

By Naomi Gayle

area high school students.

hese words, eloquently spoken by the former Vice Mayor of the City of Deltona, Mrs. Lucille Wheatley, on the occasion of her 85th birthday celebration which took place recently in that City.

Mrs. Wheatley, who was born in the US Virgin Islands, was educated in New York and spent many years being involved in programs for the betterment of her community. Through her efforts, children were able to participate in summer programs, and a Child Development Center was established in her name in 1972.

Former New York Mayor Ed Koch also appointed Mrs. Wheatley to serve on the AntiPoverty Operation Board in New York.

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Mrs. Wheatley has been very active in her church, the Greater Union First Baptist Church, as well as many community organizations such as the NAACP, United Way, National Council of Negro Women, Boys and Girls Club, Community Outreach Services, YMCA and the Florida League of Cities Criminal Justice Committee. She also worked to set up programs to celebrate Martin Luther King’s birthday and the Lucille Wheatley Scholarship Award Association has so far awarded $14,000 in scholarships to

Following her relocation to Florida, Mrs. Wheatley and her family settled in Deltona and later joined the campaign to incorporate that City. She became one of the first District Commissioners, and later the first African American to be appointed Vice Mayor, a position she held for two terms.

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If You Missed Zora, You Missed Good Fun & Entertainment

By Roger Caldwell

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aturday evening at the Zora Festival, Keith Sweat, the Master Crooner took the stadium stage around 8:15 and kept the audience on its feet until 9:30. The soul singer, songwriter, and producer sang his steamy ballads and funky hits that heated up a perfect evening under the stars in Eatonville. During the day on Saturday the weather was great, and the food was tasty and delicious, and there was also an outside bar. There was entertainment, arts and crafts for the young children, and the vendors were selling their cultural arts and merchandise. The vendors were from all over the eastern coast, and they were ready for haggling to make a deal. I was able to get a combination seafood platter with crab legs, shrimp, and fried haddock with French fries for $15. The food was excellent and most of the platters started at $10.00. There were probably 25 different food vendors at the festival, and any kind of festival food was available along with ice crème. The different festival drinks of fresh squeezed lemonade, peach, berry, and iced tea quenched the thirst of the festival goers.

In the morning, there was the conclusion of the Yards & Garden Tour, and a breakfast at the Town Hall. Around 2:00pm, the local officials entered the center stage and talked about the significance of Eatonville, and educated the festival attendees of the importance of Zora Neale Hurston. Mayor Bruce Mount, Mayor Teresa Jacobs, members of the Eatonville Council, and members of the Preserve Eatonville Community (PEC), welcomed the festival goers to the festival and pointed out the key attractions at the festival.

gether and having a good time. The audience enjoyed our music, and we enjoyed playing our music for them,” says Bernie Lee. Bernie Lee is a local legend, who started playing music at seven and his father played with Fats Waller, and they would let Bernie sit in. Bernie Lee sings and plays a number of instruments, and locally plays at Vines on Sand Lake Rd. This was the first year that the Zora festival extended its hours to 9:00 pm, and they used the stadium for a major concert.

The major concert started with African drumming and then a local singer named Toni Lacount entertained the audience. There was a decent crowd out, and the audience was very responsive to her music. “It’s all about love. This was an opportunity to showcase my talent to the community, and support the Zora festival,” says Toni Lacount. The local talent was good but the night belonged to Keith Sweat. If you were not a fan of Keith Sweat, by the end of the concert you were singing his music, and were definitely are a fan of his music.

On Sunday morning there was an ecumenical worship service at Life Center Church from 8:00 to 9:30 am, and the message was delivered from Pastor Williams of St Lawrence Church of Eatonville. It was a great service, and many of the leaders gave words of encouragement and acknowledgement to the festival, and the festival leadership. There was also an afternoon program hosted by the wonderful Crazy Praise Live.

This year the leaders of the festival got outside of the box and came up with some surprises, which enhanced the community, and there was a better reception from the local media. There is a need for closer collaborations with other communities to join in the festivities and the celebrations, and bring more bus loads to There was music all day on the center stage, and I particularly the festival and concerts. The goal of the festival is to hold events enjoyed the music of Bernie Lee and friends. Bernie Lee is an throughout the entire year. Stay connected with Eatonville, and 81 year old local musician/bassist who enjoyed playing for the there will be more events and forums about the history of Zora festival. “It is really great seeing our community coming to- Hurston, and the Town of Eatonville.

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The Chinese New Year

he Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, happens on a different day than the New Year celebration which Western cultures enjoy. The Chinese New Year starts on the day of the first New moon in January and ends fifteen days later on the full moon. This Year the Chinese New year was celebrated on January 23rd and heralded the year of the Water Dragon. The Chinese have twelve zodiacs in their calendar the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig; each year is represented by a single zodiac. Every sixty years the water dragon replaces the dragon. This is especially significant because the dragon being the only mythical creature in the zodiac and the year it heralds is thought to be filled with optimism, power and entrepreneurship.

When coupled with water, water is thought to bring balance to what the dragon signifies- power and superior control.

The previous year of the dragon was 1988 which followed the financial crash of 1987, and saw the markets rebound. 2012, the year of the water dragon is thought to bring even more good fortune, especially in financial matters. So this year is a

great time to promote the positive changes in your life that you want to see. You are encouraged to remain upbeat and optimistic in pursuing your dreams; do not be swayed, because this is a year for great accomplishments.

Tradition The entire house should be cleaned before New Year’s Eve. All cleaning utensils are then put away for fear that good fortune will be swept away.

Dirt and dust is never swept over the threshold, for fear that you will sweep one of the family away; you may also sweep good fortune away. Dust is always taken out the back door. Shooting off fire crackers on New Year’s Eve is the Chinese way of sending out the old year and welcoming the new one.

Money is not loaned; all debts are paid, as how the New Year is broken, is the way that the year usually runs!

Natasha Solomon, lives in London, Ontario, Canada with her husband and two sons, she and her husband are both Guyanese who enjoy celebrating their cultural diversity. The boys are currently exploring their Chinese heritage by taking lessons in Mandarin, to which they have taken like natives.

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“Caribbean Comedy Kings” Ity & Fancy Cat

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iamond Talent Management Promotions is bringing you the “Caribbean Comedy Kings” Ity and Fancy Cat featuring Blakka Ellis. The shows will be held in Tampa - Friday, March 9th @ 8:30pm, West Palm Beach - Saturday, March 10th @ 8:00pm and Orlando - Sunday, March 11th @ 7:00pm. Ity and Fancy Cat promises to be clean fun, knock you off your feet comedy. These are some of the funniest comedians to grace the stage,check out their Youtube clips of unstoppable laughter and rave reviews. They will keep you laughing for weeks.

See them in person for the first time, in Central Florida! For more information contact Sandra Fatmi at 770-789-7004.

CACCF elects new officers

— Continued from page 20 — munity in Central Florida. Prior to her election as President, Guenet headed the communications efforts of the CACCF as a board member, worked on the website and social media outreach platforms for the chamber and also headed the popular Caribbean Business Directory produced annually with listings of Caribbean owned businesses in Central Florida.

During the same elections the following officers were selected: Vice President: Kash Ramnarain, Training by Kash; Treasurer: Elizabeth Vieira, Seafreight Agencies; Secretary: Homida Rajack, Urban Trust Bank.

The newly appointed CACCF Board of Directors will be announced at the February Business After Hours. In addition the President will appoint a Chairperson and team of advisors to guide and develop CACCF. Mr. Mustapha Baksh of Bancar International will continue to serve on the board as Chairman Emeritus.

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Poinciana News

Amazing Grace in Poinciana

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By Phillip Browne Kissimmee/Poinciana Correspondent

A league of their own

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here is a gospel song within recent times that has made a huge mark on the music charts.

Of course there are verses and choruses, but one line stands out, and it says, “I give myself away...” Well those words could not be more fitting for Pastor Barrington E Brown of the Poinciana Pentecostal Church. When Bishop (and Pastor) of Poinciana Pentecostal Church left the island of Jamaica, he left to create a better life for himself and his family. Little did he know that God would take him in a direction where he would be assisting many other West Indian persons to stay afloat in these hard economic times.

Pastor Brown and his wife Evangelist Rockell Brown moved to Poinciana from Brooklyn New York in 1987. As ordained ministers, he and his wife started their ministry some 23 years ago.

They started on their back porch with only their 3 sons (the oldest and twins just 9 years old), and 3 other members. From their porch they moved to the Poinciana community center, and from the community center to the church’s current location, 4912 Old Pleasant Hill Rd, Poinciana.Fl.

hen I was asked to come and take photos at the opening of a women’s softball league in Poinciana I did not know what to expect. I knew there were leagues in Kissimmee and surrounding areas, but were there enough interested women to support one in Poinciana. Especially, since its founder Nicola Edwards is from Jamaica (a country more familiar with cricket).

And almost all of its participants are of Caribbean origin. However, there were over 70 women making up over 6 different teams, and even more spectators. The teams are,”The Angels (which is the picture above); The Diamonds; The Warriors; The Panthers; The Punishers and the Blasters”. I encourage all Caribbean people to come out and support your Caribbean women as they enjoy a game of softball. The games are played every Saturday at Deerwood Park in Poinciana (off Monterrey). Start time is 6:30pm on all fields. Stop by, ask for Nicola, and find His vision for all people, but mainly his West Indian people out how you can play, support, donate or sponsor. stayed at the forefront of his mind, and he subscribed to that old adage, “if you build it they will come”. After 3 renovations the church now has the capacity to seat 300 people, mainly from the Caribbean. The church also serves the community, through its bread and pastries ministry. Every Sunday the church gives away (yes for free) many different types of bread, cakes, donuts etc. This is not just given to its members, but to all visitors. But the church has not stopped there, on several occasions families with nothing to eat have been bought groceries. Electricity bills have been paid, water ,and even assistance with mortgages have been given. However, not being a mega church he can only help so many. One Caribbean man (and his wife), one godly vision, and many years late Poinciana as a community is blessed to have them and their members. They celebrate 23 years of service to the community on March 11, 2012. Please stop by and show your support.

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Elleganze—An Oasis in the Desert

he Poinciana community is a thriving community, and is growing daily. The giants like Walmart and Lowes are just two of the many businesses that keep the viability of the area alive.

However we must never lose sight of the smaller businesses, because they play a very important part also. One such business is Elleganze. Founded on the premise of providing a needed service to the community, this West Indian owned business has done just that. Nestled on the second floor of the fountain view mall, located at 2950 Pleasant Hill Rd Poinciana, this business is one of a kind in the area. Its a one

stop shop -enter the doors and you will find a store that is full of clothing for men and women, cosmetics, hair products, shoes, accessories and much more. Elleganze is one of the only stores in the area with such a variety of products, it’s truly an oasis in the desert.

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$25B settlement reached I’m not African-American — Continued from page 10 —

— Continued from page 19 —

Amounts May Vary

and white folks about whether or not I like this.”

Actual restitution to individual borrowers will depend on how many make claims, with the administration official estimating that each borrower could get $1,500 to $2,000.

Page liked it - he still uses it interchangeably with black - and sees an advantage to changing names.

“This agreement has more things to help homeowners than anything we’ve seen before,” said Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller, who led the talks for the states.

Banks must spend the money within three years or face a fine.

The proposal must be approved by a federal judge. Banks will get extra credit for funds distributed in the first 12 months, the official said.

California Attorney General Kamala Harris, who initially didn’t sign on the accord when states were required to decide, said in a statement that the settlement provides a commitment to the state of as much as $18 billion.

California’s agreement with the banks includes $12 billion for principal reduction, with incentives for banks to move swiftly and penalties if they don’t, Harris said today.

The state will hold banks accountable for this settlement after an earlier accord with Countrywide Financial Corp., acquired

by Bank of America in 2008, gave the lender credit for promises that went unfulfilled, she said.

Further Liability The settlement doesn’t release banks from any criminal liability or grant any immunity, release any private claims by individuals or any class-action claims, or release claims related to the packaging of mortgage loans into securities, according to the website outlining the agreement.

The resolution also establishes a monitor, Joseph A. Smith Jr., North Carolina’s banking regulator, to track compliance with the terms of the agreement.

The 50-state investigation, announced Oct. 13, 2010, came after New York-based JPMorgan and Ally Financial’s GMAC mortgage unit said they would stop repossessions in 23 states where courts supervise home seizures, and Charlotte, North Carolina- based Bank of America froze foreclosures nationwide.

Ally, based in Detroit, was first to freeze evictions in September 2010, after depositions in lawsuits challenging foreclosures surfaced showing that employees signed affidavits containing information they didn’t personally know was true.

10,000 Documents In December 2009, a GMAC employee said in a deposition in a foreclosure case filed in West Palm Beach, Florida, that his team of 13 people signed about 10,000 documents a month without verifying their accuracy.

Bank of America, JPMorgan, New York-based Citigroup, San Francisco-based Wells Fargo and other mortgage servicers have also been required by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency to improve their foreclosure procedures. The OCC in April 2011 announced enforcement actions against the companies for “unsafe and unsound” practices related to loan servicing and foreclosures.

“They fueled the downward spiral of our economy and of communities nationwide,” U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder said today of bank practices. “They eroded faith in our financial system. And they punished American taxpayers who have had to foot the bill for foreclosures that could have been avoided.”

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“If we couldn’t control anything else, at least we could control what people call us,” Page said. “That’s the most fundamental right any human being has, over what other people call you. (African-American) had a lot of psychic value from that point of view.”

It also has historical value, said Irv Randolph, managing editor of the Philadelphia Tribune, a black newspaper that uses both terms: “It’s a historical fact that we are people of African descent.”

“African-American embraces where we came from and where we are now,” he said. “We are Americans, no doubt about that. But to deny where we came from doesn’t make any sense to me.”

Jackson agrees about such denial. “It shows a willful ignorance of our roots, our heritage and our lineage,” he said Tuesday.

“A fruit without a root is dying.”

He observed that the history of how captives were brought here from Africa is unchangeable, and that Senegal is almost as close to New York as Los Angeles.

“If a chicken is born in the oven,” Jackson said, “that doesn’t make it a biscuit.”

Today, 24 years after Jackson popularized African-American, it’s unclear what term is preferred by the community. A series of Gallup polls from 1991 to 2007 showed no strong consensus for either black or African-American. In a January 2011 NBC/Wall Street Journal poll, 42 percent of respondents said they preferred black, 35 percent said African-American, 13 percent said it doesn’t make any difference, and 7 percent chose “some other term.”

Meanwhile, a record number of black people in America - almost 1 in 10 - were born abroad, according to census figures.

Tomi Obaro is one of them. Her Nigerian-born parents brought her to America from England as a girl, and she became a citizen last year. Although she is literally African-American, the University of Chicago senior says the label implies she is descended from slaves. It also feels vague and liberal to her.

“It just sort of screams this political correctness,” Obaro said.

She and her black friends rarely use it to refer to themselves, only when they’re speaking in “proper company.”

“Or it’s a word that people who aren’t black use to describe black people,” she said.

Or it’s a political tool. In a Senate race against Obama in 2004, Alan Keyes implied that Obama could not claim to share Keyes’ “African-American heritage” because Keyes’ ancestors were slaves. During the Democratic presidential primary, some Hillary Clinton supporters made the same charge.

Last year, Herman Cain, then a Republican presidential candidate, sought to contrast his roots in the Jim Crow south with Obama’s history, and he shunned the label African-American in favor of “American black conservative.” Rush Limbaugh mocked Obama as a “halfrican-American.”

Then there are some white Americans who were born in Africa.

Paulo Seriodo is a U.S. citizen born in Mozambique to parents from Portugal. In 2009 he filed a lawsuit against his medical school, which he said suspended him after a dispute with black classmates over whether Seriodo could call himself African-American.

“It doesn’t matter if I’m from Africa, and they are not!” Seriodo wrote at the time. “They are not allowing me to be African-American!”

And so the saga of names continues.

“I think it’s still evolving,” said Edelin, the activist who helped popularize African-American. “I’m content, for now, with African and American.”

“But,” she added, “that’s not to say that it won’t change again.”

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Upcoming events with Adonal Foyle

ou’re invited to join NBA Veteran Adonal Foyle at his upcoming charity events to benefit KLF’s 2012 programs for youth in Central Florida! Save money when you purchase your tickets in advance! www.KLFevents.com February 24/12 NBA All Star Weekend Special KLF Event a Cigar & Rémy evening with Adonal Foyle & friends at Corona Cigar Co. 127 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 6pm to 10pm What better way to kick off NBA All Star Weekend than with KLF! March 31/12 3rd Annual KLF Gala Dinner & Caribbean Fête - with Magic's Chris Duhon & David Pingalore of Local 6 News at Rosen Shingle Creek 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL32819 7pm to Midnight Advance tickets only!

Contact Shiyana Valentine at 925-699-9754 or svalentine@KeroseneLampFoundation.org for VIP & Sponsorship packages.

Well of Hope Music Festival in Pine Hills

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ell of Hope Church held a Two-Day Festival Connecting our Children to our Heritage through music, arts and conversations. Included were reenactments and a play called “Free to Reign” I am King. I am Queen. There was laughter and display of comfort and contentment all day in the Kidzone - bounce houses, snow cones, pony rides, swings, games of all kinds, healthy food, comfort foods, Live Lyrics with Ms. Shirley book reading...the children were at peace celebrating our heritage.

They also had a health, political, legal and financial zone for information to the community. Two major components of the health fair were HIV Testing (people were waiting in line) and the Ashley Williams Cancer Foundation.

The highlight of the day however, was the Appointed Gospel Singers - the seniors were in the house all the way from Miami and they were filled with spunk. Their black history tribute and legacy of music was an experience for all races. The Well of Hope Heritage Hall, was proudly constructed by Girl What Do You Bring to the Table with pieces on loan from the Wells Built Museum, Bushman Tim, Greater Orlando CARES, the National Urban League, Center for Multicultural Awareness and Prevention, Students from Pine Hills Elementary and Rolling Hills contributed drawings of what our heritage means to them.

Nouchelle Hastings one of the organizers of the event told CAP News Magazine “Our heritage once carried on the back of slaves and share croppers but filled with pride and dignity has eroded into pictures of obscurity and horrific display of character. Thanks to the Susan Taylor and the National CARES Mentoring Movement and the Greater Orlando CARES Circle, we are working diligently to change the landscape surrounding our heritage and the portrayal of how it is viewed today.”

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