Caribbean American Passport Newspaper August

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NEWS MAGAZINE

Caribbean American Community Active, Involved and Ready for Elections 2012

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rinidad and Tobago achieved Independence on August 31st, 1962 and is observing 50 years of Independence this year, 2012.

The people of Trinidad and Tobago will remember and celebrate this important milestone with a series of initiatives in Trinidad and Tobago and the diaspora.

These events aim to recognize and celebrate some of the important events, people and places that have shaped the country’s rich and diverse history.

The Ayotunde Family, owners of Life Worth Living Pharmacy with President Obama

The September issue of Caribbean American Passport Newspaper will present a feature on Trinidad & Tobago and it’s rich heritage, culture, people and these events.

Send your greetings and photos to us at capnews magazine@yahoo.com.

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BOGO 50% OFF! See store for details.

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Look good, feel good!

L I F E S T Y L E

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

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henever I write this column it means I’m at the end of yet another issue of Caribbean American Passport, this issue marks the end of our 2nd year.

Our September issue of the newspaper will be the starting of our 3rd year. Time does fly. It seems as though only last week, we were thinking about a name for the newspaper. Working to come up with the concept for the paper, how we wanted it to look, how we would distribute it and if you would like it.

printed. We would like to invite you to join us on September 20th for our 2nd Anniversary party. Earlier in that day we will have an invitation only business expo which will be aimed at Small Businesses and feature ways we can grow together, that expo will focus on trading between Florida and the Caribbean and also provide information on setting up your business to trade with the Caribbean. We will launch our new online multimedia products at this event and unveil a great new relationship with YP.com which is an exTwo years later, we’re ready to expand our distribution to 30,000 pansion of our marketing company. copies, up from our initial first printing of 5000 copies then 10,000 copies last year. However we’re going even further with It’s an exciting time for our events planning division as we a full multimedia package - online radio, television as well as collaborate on the Caribbean Sunshine Bakery 20th Anniveremail blast and the expansion of our print copies. sary Celebration at Tinker Field Labor Day weekend, Dave Martins and the Tradewinds to Orlando in October and help to A full Caribbean news channel will be available for you at plan an amazing Diwali Celebration this November. We just http://www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com/. We will attach completed decorating for Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary Ball and the Central Florida Caribbean radio stations, links to worked on the promotion and planning of the Caribbean caribbean radio stations, caribbean newspapers and televi- American Heritage Month Festival at Lake Eola, both of which sion stations. turned out better than we even expected.

We will also be creating our own Caribbean programming that will be featured on that multimedia channel with Caribbean talk shows and news. All with the same dedication to quality, style and Caribbean American content that you have grown to love in Caribbean American Passport Newspaper.

Thank you to everyone who has helped in the growth over the past two years. We said the Caribbean Community in Central Florida was a force to be reckoned with. We’re just happy that we were able to do exactly what we set out to do shine a light on the Caribbean Community and what they are doing. Thank you for providing us with the content to On September 15th our 2nd Anniversary issue will be show that we were not wrong.

ubscribe to Caribbean American Passport News Magazine today.

Get the news delivered directly to your door each month!

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.

This school year give the gift of a subscription to CAP NewsMagazine to someone and we will personalize a card to them from you in that gift package.

Name ______________________________________ Date ___________

Congratulations Trinidad & Tobago on your 50th Jubilee Anniversary.

Pick up the September issue which will feature a special tribute to Trinidad & Tobago - the people, the island, the culture.

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, Suite 101 • Orlando, FL 32803 407-427-1800 ! Yes this is a gift subscription from: _____________________________________________________

GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1230 Hillcrest Street, Suite 101 • 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 ........................................................................................ .Lyma Dunbar . .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell ................................................................................ Nouchelle Hastings Contributing Photographers ........................................... Dillia Castillo ........................................................................... Azikiwe smenkh Ka Ra Distribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

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Help Me See My ABC’s

By Dr. Lauretta Justin

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ccording to the American Optometric Association, nearly 25% of school aged children has vision problems. Is your child one of them? These problems can lead to poor performance in school, especially in reading skills.

The inability to perform well in school can also lead to behavior problems. Furthermore, it can lead to self esteem issues which can be detrimental to success in academics and in life.

It is sometimes difficult to know if your child has any vision problems, because of their ability to compensate for underlying vision difficulties. Sometimes the children are not aware that something is wrong with their vision, they think that the way they see is normal. As a result, parents sometimes are unable to detect any vision problems because the child does not complain about such issues. Fortunately, there is a solution to most vision problems. A comprehensive eye exam from an eye doctor is the best way to ensure the quality of your child’s vision and their ensuing success in school. Prepare them for success by giving them the gift of sight. Together, we can help children see their ABC’S.

Harvard University Announcement:

No Tuition and No Student Loans for Low Income Students

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arvard University announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families will pay no tuition. In making the announcement, Har vard’s president Lawrence H. Summers said, “When only ten percent of the students in elite higher education come from families in the lower half of the income distriDr. Lauretta Justin, Millennium Eye Center. For more information, bution, we are not doing enough. please visit our website at www.millenniumeyecenter.com or call 407- We are not doing enough in bringing elite higher education to 292-9812. It is our goal to make you look good and feel good. the lower half of the income distribution.”

If you know of a family earning less than $60,000 a year with an honor student graduating from high school soon, Harvard University wants to pay the tuition. The prestigious university recently announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families can go to Harvard for free… no tuition and no student loans!

To find out more about Harvard offering free tuition for families making less than $60,000 a year, visit Harvard’s financial aid website at: http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu or call the school’s financial aid office at (617) 495-1581.

Family man, disciplinarian Gavin Campbell remembered

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he man shot and killed at a family reunion in Cardiff Hall, Jamaica Gavin Kurt Campbell, was laid to rest on Monday, July 16, 2012. However a memorial service will be held for him here in Orlando.

Family and friends are still wondering why it happened and why Campbell who was visiting from the US met so untimely a death.

Gavin was a past-student of York Castle High School and a trained teacher, a graduate of Mico Teachers College The Memorial Service for the late Gavin Kurt Campbell will be held on Saturday, August 25th 2012 at 3:00 pm at The Piedmont Apostolic Church-Jesus located at 4440 Piedmont Street Orlando, FL 32811 For more information please call (407) 298-5866.

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Jamaica scores big fashion win at Olympics Time Magazine votes Jamaica’s Opening Ceremony Outfits the Best for 2012 Olympics

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IME Magazine listed their Worst and Best Opening Ceremony outfits for this year’s Olympics, and Jamaica has been voted as the BEST. TIME had this to say of the Cedella Marley-designed Jamaican gear: “We love these uniforms, mostly because the designers didn’t seem to be trying too hard. The vivid colours and geometric colours are so fun! Just like the Olympics!”

PUMA teamed up with Cedella Marley, Jamaican Fashion Designer/eldest daughter of the Legendary Reggae King Bob Marley to dress the Jamaican team for the 2012 London Olympics.

The edgy, fashion-forward outfits (JA Olympics Kit) were worn by both the Women and Mens teams, uniforms as well as for the Official Ceremonies and appearances.

ran track in high school in Jamaica and I’m still a huge fan of Jamaican Athletics, so to have a role in creating the outfits for our Olympians is a thrill. I admire what PUMA has been doing in Jamaica over the years and the Marley family has the same type of give-back philosophy. I think this partnership is going to be legendary.

As soon as the athletes begin parading July 27, their opening ceremony outfits were seen by billions worldwide and judged by many. Italian luxury labels such as Giorgio Armani (Team Italy) and Ermanno Scervino (Team Azerbaijan) walked the world’s runway alongside North American brands including Ralph Lauren (Team USA) and Hudson’s Bay Co. (Team Canada) in an arena where a standout piece of apparel can drive sales — becom-

Usain Bolt had endorsed the Collection via PUMA sources saying ,‘I can’t think of a better person to design our Olympic outfits than Cedella…PUMA got that right…hooking up with a legendary Jamaican. She’s a great designer but also carries on the spirit of our nation through the legacy of the Marley family. It’s going to be inspirational to run in London with that energy surrounding me.”

Cedella told Puma she is appreciative of the opportunity, “It is truly an honor to design this collection for my home country and my home team,” said Cedella Marley. “It’s not even a dream come true because it’s something I never dreamed would be possible. I

ing, for a clothing company, the equivalent of taking home the gold. Cedella Marley described her line as, ‘Grace Jones meets my Dad-very music inspired and a bit retro,.’ obviously a great inspiration to take home the gold.

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The Olympic Games that enabled the Caribbean to show true grit

By Tony Best, The New York Carib News

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wasn’t a flash in the pan occasion.

Another country which has earned its place on “Cloud Nine” is Trinidad and Tobago whose four medals, capped by the gold medal won by Keshorn Walcott with his javelin, placed Trinidad and Tobago in the 47th spot on the medal table, more than 27 places behind Jamaica which made the world’s top 20 list, coming in at 18th. The Bahamas win in the men’s But whatever the description of the Olympiad, this much is in the javelin reflected the Caribbean’s emergence as a track clear: the Caribbean region in general and Jamaica in particu- and field powerhouse. lar showed true grit in 2012. It was a coming of age at a time when the world, almost every country on the planet had its When the medals won by Cuba and the Dominican Republic are gaze fixed on global competition. It was an occasion when added to the tally, it underscores the realization that Jamaica and performances were at their highest and when athletes stirred the rest of the region aren’t neophytes in track and field. the pride of nations, large and small.

The big question, though, is where do we go from here?

That’s why Jamaicans everyAlready, calls are being made where have every right to bask for a regional athletic training in international glory that was facility that matches the cricket spawned by the top-notch disacademy the West Indies plays of the country’s track and Cricket Board has established field prowess. That’s true in Barbados to train players whether it was Usain Bolt, from around the region. The Yohan Blake and the other track and field academy world class sprinters who capshould be established before tured gold, silver or bronze in the next Olympics Games in their individual contests or reRio de Janiero and the world lay races where group responchampionships in different sibility was key. But it was parts of the world. The CaribShelly-Ann Frazer-Pryce who Shelly-Ann Frazer-Pryce bean, hard hit by financial started the proverbial golden ball rolling when she leaned across the finish line of the troubles must find an effective way to harness the region’s skill women’s 100 meters and defeated Carmelita Jeters of the United for the benefit of future generations of sports stars who like Bolt, States. Victory caused her to the track with delight, forcing her Blake, Fraser-Pryce, Asafa Powell, Walcott, James and a long list to shout “thank you Jesus!” The 25 year old had every reason of great performance can bring critical acclaim to their indito thank the Almighty. For like Bolt she won back-to-back gold vidual countries and to the Caribbean in the years and decades medals and while Bolt did it with ease in the glamor events of to come. the men’s competition, she took high honors in the women in Unfortunately, success comes with a price. And for Jamaica it a close race. can turn out to be a heavy burden because of unfounded susIt was a marvelous beginning to the historic games for Ja- picions which are raised by sore losers, people who should maica and the rest of the Caribbean, the island-nations and know better. Questions about drug use are being raised by a coastal states which cheered on the winners regardless of handful of officials of the International Olympic Committee where they were in the region. It was a display of regional and by Carl Lewis, an American gold medal winner in sucunity that the Caribbean rarely enjoys. Antiguans cheered cessive Olympics. There isn’t a justifiable reason for their odifor Jamaicans, Trinidadians and Bahamians while ous suggestion about the possible use of performance enhancTrinidadians acclaimed the victory of Grenada and so on. ing drugs by Jamaicans who are frequently tested at home Guyanese and Barbadians who came away from London and abroad. empty handed couldn’t contain themselves as they hailed The region’s stars can hold their heads high and enjoy the fruits their neighbor’s victories. of their commitment and hard work, knowing they defeated Grenadians too are euphoric, and justifiably so at captur- the best, the fastest and most highly talented in contests where ing their first Olympic gold medal, brought home, if you skill and consistency in performance pay off. will, by a 19 year old runner they affectionately call “King” James. His speed and positive attitude on and off the track Congratulations Jamaica, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, send a strong signal to the rest of the world that his victory, Grenada, the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic. The world coming as it did after his World championship victory, of athletics is your oyster. ome may call it the Caribbean Olympic Games in London while others can see the spectacle as the occasion when Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas, Grenada, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico seized the opportunity and made a firm statement to the world.

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BRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUM FOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKING TOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. HERE’S A LETTER THAT ASKED: WHY DO I ALWAYS HAVE TO PICK UP THE CHECK? BRYAN: Gary this one is for all the guys out there that’s trying to survive in this economy and trying to get some ROMANCE with their limited FINANCE…the letter goes like this: Dear Bryan and Gary, With things changing so much in this world, it’s hard to believe that so much stays the same. We live in a world where women are graduating from college more than men, they are getting better jobs, and they are more independent now than ever before. They get equal pay for equal work, So why is it that there is still an expectation for me as the MAN to always have to pick up the check?

Women, make it seem like we are the only ones that are looking for LOVE. Don’t they know that we would like to be wined and dined too? That we like to be surprised, that we like gifts? Don’t they know this? I guess as a struggling man trying to find love, I find myself always asking the question, WHY DO I ALWAYS HAVE TO PICK UP THE CHECK? And WHY DO I ALWAYS HAVE TO PAY FOR LOVE IF WE’RE BOTH LOOKING FOR IT? I’m hoping you guys can shed some light on this for me.

Signed....

Weak Pocket!!!!

GARY: WOW!!! This guy sounds like someone that’s not getting a lot of ROMANCE. BRYAN: Well obviously, Gary when your finance is low a lot of women don’t even want to talk to you let alone anything else. And it’s unfortunate because there are so many good guys out there whose “pocket is kinda weak.”

GARY: I agree, and as to the question: WHY DO I ALWAYS HAVE TO PICK UP THE CHECK? Man, It’s just something you’re going to have to deal. Most women just don’t care if your pocket is weak. For them, it’s an opportunity to get a free meal at a nice restaurant.

BRYAN: Well Gary, I don’t usually agree with you…So I won’t start now. What about those women that want more than FREE MEAL? What about those that want DINNER AND A MOVIE? What about those that want to STRING YOU ALONG, KNOWING GOOD AND WELL THAT THEY DON’T WANT YOU? What about those that will just tease you with the COOKIE so you can buy all the INGREDIENTS, but never give you a TASTE? GARY: LOL, Man it sounds like you’ve been there.

BRYAN: Oh I’ve been there and back. And what I would tell this guy to do is make sure that he’s not spending a ton load of money on her. Take her somewhere that don’t cost a lot of money.

GARY: Yeah, Bryan I agree because it’s always gonna COST us men. And whether we like it or not, Most of the times, we WILL have to pick up the check. And if we ever want to get close to the oven that’s baking those sweet cookies…we’re just going to have to play our part.

BRYAN: Well said.

GARY: So where would you suggest that he take these ladies Bryan?

BRYAN: Well I like to dress up and look nice and I love

it when a woman put’s on a nice cocktail dress, with some high heels and the works….So on the first date, “if my pocket is weak,” I would call her up and tell her to put on a nice cocktail dress. I would tell her to DRESS to IMPRESS. I would then pick her up and take her to the nicest neighborhood in town. Maybe Baldwin Park or Downtown Winter Park, where you Bryan have a lot of rich folks and I would tell her how lovely she looked. And that these rich people had nothing on her. Then I would pull in to the BEST Wendy’s or McDonalds in that area so she could have her choice from FISH, CHICKEN, or BEEF. GARY: HA HA HA….LOL, Man you are crazy. That would be the first and last date.

BRYAN: LOL, LOL, LOL….Maybe, but I would tell her that I didn’t want her to love me for my money, and if she could enjoy my company sharing some French Fries and a Happy Meal then she would be worthy of a second date.

GARY: And where would you take her for the second date?

BRYAN: I would tell her that it’s important for me to give back to my community, to those less fortunate. And “if my pocket was weak,” I would probably suggest that we go volunteer at a FOOD FOR THE POOR location.

That way we could serve and eat at the same time.

GARY: Get outta here man, you’re taking this thing for a joke. There’s no way I could see you doing that.

BRYAN: Maybe not Gary, BUT “if my pocket was weak” and I couldn’t afford to be wining and dining this woman, I gotta do something. Right?

GARY: I guess you’re RIGHT. You know this guy asked a very good question, and unfortunately Sir society hasn’t changed that much. No matter how successful a woman is….she still wants to be chased….she still wants you to bring you’re “A” GAME, and she still wants to be courted. There’s just no getting around that. But maybe you can take Bryan’s advice if your pocket is weak. LOL BRYAN: Exactly.

GARY: WHY DO MEN ALWAYS HAVE TO PAY FOR LOVE IF THEY’RE NOT THE ONLY ONES LOOKING FOR IT? We want to hear from you. Write us back at the address below and let us know what you think.

BRYAN: Man don’t even get me started.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY THAT’S FULL OF UPS AND DOWNS, TWISTS AND TURNS, SUCCESSES AND FAILURES, AND A LOT OF THINGS IN BETWEEN. WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF FACED WITH THIS DECISION? E-MAIL US AT BACK2BASICLIVE@GMAIL.COM

TUNE IN EVERY SATURDAY FROM 5PM-7PM ON YOUR RADIO OR LISTEN TO US LIVE ON WWW.WOKBRADIO.COM

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HURT AT WORK? Here are some things you should know:

By Terrence L. Dowdel, Esq.

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to go back to work. This means that your employer may not harass you or terminate your employment simply because you have filed a worker’s compensation claim. If you are terminated or harassed by your employer because of worker’s compensation, you should immediately speak with an attorney.

nder Florida Law, if you are hurt at work you must receive medical treatment with a worker’s compensation physician authorized and chosen by your employer or 4. Follow doctor’s instructions for treatment, recovery, and return to work date. It is very important that your employer’s insurance comyou follow the doctor’s orders because your proper healing pany. Many times, employees and recovery depends on it. Also, following these instrucare not properly notified of their tions helps to document and build a stronger work loss claim. rights and responsibilities when involved in a work accident. If you are hurt at work you should 5. Do not make comments regarding your physical state on social media. It critical to avoid commenting do the following: on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites regarding your work accident and the nature and extent of your inju1. Notify your employer and document the date, time ries. Also, avoid taking pictures of yourself doing activities and nature of your injury. This is an important step for which you have a restriction from your doctor as this because if you fail to give your employer timely notice, you will have negative consequences for your work loss claim. could lose some or all of your valuable rights. You should never speak with an insurance adjuster until you have reIn closing, many employers, despite how great the work relatained the services of an attorney. tionship, may try to get out of the situation while paying you 2. Seek medical attention immediately. You must docu- as little as possible. With proper representation, you may be ment the nature and extent of your injuries as soon as pos- able to get the treatment and compensation that you deserve. sible. Failure to quickly seek medical treatment could re- There is no out of pocket expense for you to retain a Workers sult in a complete denial of a claim for workers compensa- Compensation attorney, so it is in your best interest to have an experienced attorney working for you. tion benefits.

3. Get an experienced attorney as soon as possible after giving notice to your employer and receiving treatment. This is critical because if you don’t have an attorney, the insurance company will almost always take advantage of you. You have rights which include the right

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Terrence Dowdel, Esq. is the Partner and Owner of The Dowdel Law Firm, PLLC. He specializes in all types of accidents including Workplace Illness/Injuries, Motor Vehicle Accidents, and Personal Injury cases. He can be reached at (888) 649-3653 or terrence@dowdellaw.com for more information.

Obama Says, “He is President of America not Black America” and members of the Black Caucus have consistently slammed the President’s policies and agenda.

By Roger Caldwell

Without a doubt the President is focused on leveling the playing field, but he has a responsibility to all Americans. As the election is only two and a-half months away, it becomes important to stop criticizing everything the President says, and get engaged and supportive in his campaign. When the President took his oath to be President of the United States, I didn’t hear anything in that oath that stated President Obama would be the President of Black America.

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ast week, President Barack Obama was criticized for acknowledging clearly during an interview with Black Enterprise Magazine, that he is not the President of Black America. This would appear to be a factual statement, which would not be considered controversial or debatable. But the black academic and black media community was angered with this statement and feels that the President has not done enough for the Black Community.

Republican Candidate Mitt Romney has picked his Vice Presidential running mate, Congressman Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, and I have not heard them talk about running for just one race or demographic in the presidential election. It is ridiculous that the Black Media, (including myself) is trying to resolve a statement that is correct, straightforward, and accurate. In a political climate where Republicans are calling Obama the “food stamp president” and claiming he is giving too much “free government” to Africa Americans, it would be When the President was asked about the vocal criticism of his suicidal for him to say he is the President for Black Americans. administration for the perceived inaction on behalf of the black community, and more specifically black- owned businesses, The president’s historic win in 2008 was a win for the African President Obama said: “My general view has been consistent American community, and all Americans. For the next two throughout, which is that I want all businesses to succeed. I and a-half months the president will make a case for why he want all Americans to have opportunity. I’m not the President should remain president for all Americans. This will be a close of Black America. I’m the President of the United States of race and the president must address all the citizens regardless America, but the programs that we have put in place have of race, creed or color. been directed at those folks who are least able to get financing through conventional means.”

The African American community in the next two months must collectively come together and deliver a larger percentage and Many Blacks in the media feel that President Obama has ig- bloc of votes to the president. Many African Americans are nored the Black Media, and the President’s administration has undecided and many are talking about not voting and staying not addressed the special needs in our community. A large home. One vote is a contributing factor to whether a candinumber of Blacks thought that once the President won the elec- date wins or losses. tion, it would radically change the dynamics and problems of where we live. Basically, many in our community felt that mi- Each time anyone votes they help change their community, raculously our community would be transformed in four years. state, and country. All Americans and specifically African Instead of developing a strategic plan to move our community Americans are voting to impact and improve the future. Presiforward collectively, we split up into splinter groups and worked dent Obama is moving the country forward, and he has not against each other. Many of the outspoken critics of the Presi- forgotten or ignored the African American community. Get dent, including Dr. Cornel West, Tavis Smiley, Dr. Boyce Watkins, out and vote.

New Site, New Look. Post your Events & your Business for Free on CaribbeanFinder.com

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Caribbean Community Pledges to rally around teen Danielle Sampson

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Vows to change the stigma attached to Pine Hills

anielle Sampson and her parents were on their way to Orlando Premium Outlets after attending church to buy her mother a birthday present Sunday when they saw a friend at a bus stop and offered to give him a ride.

Danielle, 15, an Apopka High School student, is still unconscious and on a ventilator in the intensive-care unit at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

Caribbean American Passport Newspaper is committed to spreading the word at every event we attend or organize. We are The decision to take him to Pine Hills asking the Caribbean Community to rally changed their lives forever. Orange to support Danielle Sampson and her County deputies say, Danielle was family, and to find and serve justice to the caught in the crossfire of a gang related gang members who committed this hordrive-by. She was riding with her parrific act. If anyone knows something we ents on Sunday evening on North Lane, ask you to come forward. We are not goin the Pine Hills area ing to give up, we will conaround 6:30 p.m., when tinue the fight to keep this shots rang out. case alive and in the meDanielle’s father was dia until it is solved. We westbound on North are asking for you to step Lane about 6:30 p.m. up to donate to the Hope when he heard several for Danielle Fund, as this gunshots from the SUV family needs help with and the car, which were mounting medical bills westbound on the same they need a vehicle to restreet, investigators place the one that said. As he turned north Danielle was shot in and onto Powers Drive to get they need your prayers. away from the shooters, Danielle and her family a bullet shattered the are from Jamaica, we are rear window where one Caribbean family.

Danielle was sitting, acWe will take care of our cording to the Sheriff’s own and I urge you all to Office. Her mother step up to do so in any turned and saw way that you can. Let’s Baje Fletcher with CACCF President Guenet Roberts, Danielle slumped in her show them all the love we Greater Orlando Cares Team and Sheriff Demmings seat, she told deputies. can. Peter Daley of CarThe gunfire had broken the rear window of the van and Danielle ibbean Sunshine Bakery, has pledged to give $1.00 from every ticket was struck by a bullet, investigators say. The family was on their sold at his restaurant’s 20th Anniversary Celebration on September way to church at the 3rd. A community meettime of the shooting. ing with leaders in the Caribbean Community Anyone with informato determine a plan of action is urged to call tion will be held at Life CRIMELINE at # 1Worth Living Pharmacy, 800-423-TIPS. Callers may be eligible for a reward up to 6488 Currin Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32835 at 6pm on August 30th. All $26,000. Tipsters can remain anonymous. are invited.

Anyone with information is urged to call CRIMELINE at # 1-800-423-TIPS. Callers may be eligible for a reward up to $26,000. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

As-Salamu Alaykum G

reetings and best wishes from the Management and Staff of Caribbean American Passport Newspaper to you and your families as you celebrate

FAACS Foundation for Children & Families A Musical Banquet

(Fundraiser for school supplies for Jamaica)

Friday September 7th

Doors open 6:30pm Dinner Served 7:15 Sharp

for 2012.

Members of the Muslim community have sacrificed and fasted during the month of Ramadaan. They have taught us, by example, the essence of sacrifice, patience, tolerance, charity, sharing and helping those who cannot help themselves.

May Almighty Allah accept your fasts, your charity, your prayers and extra acts of worship and may your efforts gain you the Mercies and Blessings of your Sustainer.

Eid Mubarak

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Eastmonte Civic Center- 830 Magnolia Dr. Altamonte Springs, FL 32701

Ticket Outlets

Caribbean One Stop-407-423-7552 Hair Essential-407-310-9276 Cal Allison-407-557-8792 My Sister’s Closet-407-266-0866 Taste of Jamaica restaurant-407-298-5866 Nev’s Caribbean Shop-407-830-5444

Tickets: Adults $25 Children $10 (ages 5 to 12)

Message from CACCF-CAHM Chairperson

By Samuel Roberts

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aribbean American Heritage Month (CAHM) activities for 2012 are finally over, our last but major showcase event; our CAHM Festival at Lake Eola was a tremendous success. This event was so perfect that we even had a few ‘blessings from above’ to help cool down the heat. We completed our mission to showcase Caribbean American Heritage with pride and in true Caribbean American style. Our Sponsors were recognized and showcased, our vendors had a successful day, our performers entertained the crowd, our beers made the attendees more joyful, and our music provided the perfect Caribbean atmosphere.

It is with great pleasure and even greater satisfaction that we take this opportunity to thank and congratulate ever yone who made the personal sacrifice necessary to make our 2012 celebrations the tremendous success that it was. We weathered the storm both figuratively and literally to make our Caribbean American Heritage Month (CAHM) celebrations successful. We have improved on our planning and implementation, we have made changes from our 2011 plan and strategy and we have identified changes that we need to make going into the planning of 2013.

• Life Worth Living Pharmacy • Amerijet International Shipping • Seapack/Seafreight • Caribbean American Passport News Magazine • PS Freight/Laparkan • City of Orlando – Family, Parks and Recreation • Clear Channel Outdoor

• Majestic Event Center • Walsh Group • Urban Trust Bank • Banks Beer • Costco Stores • Cocobean Productions • Caribbean Radio personalities on 1680AM, 1220AM, 810 AM • HD Sounds

We are extremely grateful for our sponsors who have been engaged in our vision and support our dream. Let us take every opportunity to go out and show our sponsors that we support them the same way they support us – Our Sponsors: We have built a foundation that can support the vision we have to showcase our Caribbean American culture in Central Florida. After only 2 years we have shown Central Florida that we, as Caribbean American people, can come together under one umbrella, as a unified body and present/showcase our culture. We rocked in London during the 2012 Olympic Games and we rocked in Orlando on August 12th, 2012.

The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida and the Heads of Caribbean Organizations in collaboration with — Continued on page 24 —

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By Audrey Johnson

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mixed crowd from Central Florida and beyond, turned out in record numbers on Saturday, July 28th at the Rosen Plaza Hotel in support of the Jamaican American Association of Central Florida, Inc., as they celebrated in fine style, 50 years of Jamaica’s Independence. Association President Sandra Fatmi, thanked the attendees and pointed out that it was a range of different countries that came out in support, she also remarked that the event would not be possible without the support of their sponsors - Caribbean Supercenter, The Golding Law Group, PLC, Fin-lay’s Shipping, Rosen Plaza Hotel, Pepsi, Air Jamaica/Caribbean Airlines, Paradise Island Cafe, Golden Krust Bakery - Orlando, GGR Marketing, Caribbean American Passport News Magazine, Speedy Quick Printing and Caribbean Sunshine Bakery, who really showed their support for the Jamaican community.

describing the relationships between household helpers and their employers, and the lack of consideration given children of helpers, many of whom she said were being raised as an underclass.

Explaining the notion of Transformational Leadership, Mrs. Manley-Duncan pointed to the desire for creativity, innovation and the vision to bring ideas to the forefront and implement them effectively. Using a quote from Norman Manley, she remarked that “whilst others can free our bodies, none but ourselves can free our minds”.

According to Mrs. Manley-Duncan, our minds have to be free in order to create, innovate and implement the fundamental, constitutional changes necessary for real economic and social progress in Jamaica. She adamantly suggested that the Constitution should be re-organized to be truly representative of every Jamaican, and wants the voices of women and children to be heard as well, as each brings “something different to the table”. Noting that the Westminster model, the basis of the Jamaican Constitution, has done its time, Mrs. Manley-Duncan called for a deepening of the political system and dismantling of what she referred to as “tribal politics”. This notion of tribalism, she explained, is the very mind-set within the society and must be eradicated.

Amid much applause and a standing ovation, Mrs. Manley-Duncan delivered a thought-provoking speech in which she invited Jamaicans abroad to “share the vision that Jamaica is the place of choice to live, work, raise a family and do business”, but has a need for what she called Her challenge to the group Transformational Leaderwas that no matter where ship at all levels. Remarkthey may be, Jamaica is ing that Jamaicans are not home; so each one needs to lacking in ideas, but are practice transformational bright people inside and leadership by engaging in outside of the country, she effective communication wondered what was it that and responsible conversais missing in the quest for tion about Jamaica, as lantrue economic indepenguage can be used to “eidence. The former first ther tear down or build up”. lady noted that her late faIn wishing Jamaica and Jather- in- law, Premier the maicans a happy 50th JuHon. Norman Washingbilee, the former first lady ton Manley, had earlier concluded that “after all is advised his son, future said and done, we have the Prime Minister Michael gift of each other”.

50th Jubilee Ball Chairperson, Dennis Hall with Door Prize Winners Manley, that political independence was achieved under the leadership of his genera- The evening’s activities also included awards recognition and tion, when Jamaica became part of the West Indies Federation scholarship presentations. Mrs. Marjorie Brown received the and ultimately gained full independence. The expectation then Founders Award, with the Humanitarian Award going to Mrs. was that economic independence should be achieved under his Hyacinth Bulgin. Mr. Reggie McGill of the Mayor’s office reson in the next generation. This goal, she observed, has been ceived the Community Service Award and the Jay Brown Scholquite elusive. arship Award went to Aston Steele, a college student.

She is of the opinion that what is missing is what Father Manley described as “fixity of purpose”, and a lack of commitment and continuity of efforts. In urging Jamaicans to consider how they may be of service to their country, she expressed the view that everyone has elements of leadership inside of them, but those who are “asleep” should become fully awake and assist in the effort to “build a Jamaica that works for all”.

In addressing the social problems plaguing the country, Mrs. Manley-Duncan stated that the gap between the “haves and the have-nots” must not continue to widen as this has resulted in an atrocious social class divide. She illustrated by vividly

Partial Proceeds to benefit our scholarship fund. For more information about the Organization please call (407) 292-3719, or logon to http://www.jamaicanamericanassoc.com/ After a a few logistical glitches were resolved, the elegantly decorated ballroom (done by GGR Marketing) dazzled as the Entertainment for the evening took us through 50 years of dance, song and poetry. The evening ended on a high with music from the 506 Crew Band and DJ Phayz of Vibrant Soundz taking us back to Jamaica as only they can.

— See more photos on page 16 —

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— Continued from page 13 —

Photographic Display by David I. Muir, MSW Lifestyle Photographic Artist | DAVIDiPhoto, Inc. | Fort Lauderdale, FL • dmuir@DAVIDiPhoto.com | http://www.piecesofjamaica.net/ | http://www.davidiphoto.com/

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Roberts & Roberts Property Management Services

GUYANESE AMERICAN CULTURAL ASSOCIATION OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Serving Orlando & Central Florida

Invites You to Our September Fundraising Events

Property Management

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We provide property management solutions for homes, businesses and vacation rentals.

Renters! we have homes available.

Contact Sam for more details:

407-810-6435

Venue: Rotary Club of West Orlando: Address: 475 South Kirkman Road, Orlando, FL FREE PARKING !! ** Bus Ride to SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL and CASINO Tampa ** SATURDAY SEPT 22, 11AM - 7PM TICKETS : $40 Bus leaves Aldi Supermarket Parking Lot (5524 W Colonial Drive) @ 11am Bus leaves Tampa @ 7pm For tickets/information call : 407-246-4570 or e-mail : gacacf@gmail.com.

We appreciate your continued support!!

Elegant Atmosphere and Superb Food

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Alisia M. Adamson, Named the NATION’S BEST ADVOCATE

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and One of the Top 40 Lawyers under 40

lisia Mary Adamson, gained national recognition as she was named “The Nation’s Best Advocate of the Year” by the National Bar. Association (NBA) and IMPACT at the Nation’s Best Advocates: Top 40 Lawyers Under 40 Gala on Sunday, July 15, 2012 during the NBA’s 87th Annual convention in Las Vegas, NV.

world are encouraged to vote on which nominee is the Nation’s Best Advocate.

The NBA and IMPACT hosted a Gala at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, NV on July 15, 2012 to honor the Nation’s Top 40 Lawyers Under 40 and also to present one of the nominees the award of Nation’s Best Advocate. The Nation’s Best Advocate is one that excels in leadership, service, activism, innovation and makes significant contributions to the community.

Attorney Adamson is the managing partner of HAWM law, a former public defender, a news legal analyst, former President of FSU’s Black Law Students Association, a member of the Young Lawyers Division for the Orange County Bar Association where she chairs the backpack project (a school supplies drive for one of The NBA and IMPACT Orlando’s most economic partnered to recognize 40 several high school, coltalented individuals who lege and law students. It is have achieved prominence and distinction, for these reasons and sevprofessionally and philanthropically. Selected eral more that Alisia Mary nominees represent a cross-section of legal proAdamson received the fessionals: solo practitioners, government lawmost votes and earned the yers, judges, academicians, corporate counsels, title of “The Nation’s Best young elected officials, and other lawyers usAdvocate”ally disadvaning their degree in innovative ways. Nominees taged schools), a 3rd and were chosen based on their achievement, in4th grade basketball novation, vision, leadership, and legal commucoach, a Title I sponsor nity involvement. with the Orange County Public School System, and IMPACT receives hundreds of nominations for a mentor ofseveral high the top 40 lawyers under 40. After a nominaschool, college and law tions committee carefully selects the top 40 lawstudents. It is for these reayers, each nominee’s bio is displayed and highlighted on the sons and several more that Alisia Mary Adamson received the most website www.nationsbestadvocates.com and people all over the votes and earned the title of “The Nation’s Best Advocate.”

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By Audrey Johnson

cultural sector. However, the next decade saw a shift in this economic status as economic and political changes occurred around the world. One of the most t’s the Summer of Reflection and Celebration!! The notable changes at that time was the imposition of Fifty-Year-Fever is in the air in Jamaica as the coun- the 1974 Bauxite Levy under then Prime Minister try reflects on its struggles and celebrates its ac- Michael Manley, in order to increase Jamaica’s share complishments over the past fifty years of indepen- of the income in that industry. dence. The carnival-style celebrations are ongoing both at home and abroad, but also significant among them The seventies also witnessed the ascension of Reggae are the memories, considerations, and conversations Superstar Bob Marley on to the world stage, heraldas to how far we have come, how to measure Jamaica’s ing the arrival of Reggae Music. Bob Marley and the achievements, and contemplate the way forward.

Wailers authored timeless hits such as, “Get Up, Stand Up”, “Could You Be Loved”, “Exodus”, and “Stir It Up”.

Our Story Even after his death in 1981, Bob Marley is still one of the most influential artists of the present era.

The Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus arrived in Jamaica in 1494, during which time the country was Under the Manley Administration, an ideology of soinhabited by Arawak Indians who apparently migrated cial reform was instituted to protect the poor and to from South America. Their lives were simple and based promote social welfare through housing, education primarily on fishing, hunting, and some small farming. and healthcare. Jamaica also established relations However, the natives had a harsh co-existence with the with many socialist countries and promoted relationSpaniard colonists. Later, the indigenous population was ships with other Third World countries, namely Cuba, plundered and decimated, and as such were wiped out in what was then called the “Non-aligned Movement”. by new diseases. The Spanish used the island for produc- However, as the 1980s rolled around, the JLP, under tion of consumer goods for local consumption, as there former Prime Minister Edward Seaga, held office and were no gold or other precious stones found on the is- brought about a change in the political process. Jaland. The small Spanish population settled primarily in maica was then aligned more with the free market Santiago de la Vega, which is now the city of Spanish policies of the United States; more deregulation, curTown, which still retains some of the original architec- rency devaluation and many public industries were ture. When the British invaded Jamaica in 1655, the Span- divested as part of the new policies. Bauxite and aluish put up little resistance as the island was no longer of mina production began a recovery, and the tourism interest to the Spanish crown. improved somewhat. (with excerpts from Brief History of Jamaica by Donna Essix)

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Beginning in 1655, the British began large scale importation of slaves from Africa to work on sugar plantations. When sugar was “king”, Jamaica was considered “a jewel in the English crown” because of the prosperity it derived that commodity. The Triangular slave trade between England, Africa and the Caribbean became extremely important to the world economy and the plantation life and activities dominated the local economy and lifestyle. During the flurry of commercial and agricultural activity on the plantations, some slaves escaped to set up communities in the mountains, and became known as “Maroons”. One of the most famous Maroons was “Nanny”, who became a National Hero for her leadership in the wars against the British following raids of planters ‘estates and also the defense of the invasion of their mountain communities.

The Maroon culture persists in Jamaica today, although most of the descendants have assimilated and much of the tradition has been lost.

The JLP under Edward Seaga lost the 1989 election, and Michael Manley’s PNP party was returned to power, but Manley resigned in 1992, and was replaced

by P.J. Patterson, who had three terms as the leader of the country. During this period, Jamaica experienced much chaos with drug trafficking and politically-affiliated gang violence escalating and threatening to disrupt the tourist industry.

Following the departure of P.J. Patterson in 2006, Jamaica saw its first female Prime Minister in the person of Mrs. Portia Simpson-Miller, a member of the PNP. However, in the general election of the following year, the JLP defeated the PNP and Prime Minister Bruce Golding took office. During his tenure in 2010, Jamaica saw some of its most violent clashes in gang rivalry, and clashes between police and supporters of a drug lord named Christopher “Dudus” Coke, in which over seventy people lost their lives and the country was caught in the grip fear and uncertainty. Coke was later By the end of the 18th century, sugar lost its economic extradited to the US to stand trial for drug trafficking importance, making way for the Emancipation of the and is now serving an extended prison sentence. With slaves and a system of small farming by ex-slaves. As the Coke affair casting a shadow on his administrasugar continued to decline, the export of coffee and ba- tion, Prime Minister Bruce Golding resigned in 2011, nanas increased, lending some diversification to the lo- and was briefly replaced by Andrew Holness, under cal economy. At the same time, there was a movement whose leadership the JLP lost the election to the PNP, towards decolonization from Britain, and later this sen- resulting in the return of Mrs. Portia Simpson-Miller timent was further promoted by National Hero Marcus to power as the current Prime Minister of Jamaica.

Mosiah Garvey. Emanating from Marcus Garvey’s movement were the major trade unions, the BITU under Through it all, Jamaicans are determined to move forAlexander Bustamante, a national hero, and the NWU, ward to the next fifty years with the hope that positive under national hero Norman Manley. Bustamante and changes are ahead and the current status quo will, in Manley, who were cousins, were very instrumental in time, be remedied. With global recognition as the fastsecuring political independence from Britain. est country in the world, Jamaica again has bolted into the spotlight at the recent Olympic Games with track Jamaica finally gained its independence on August 6, and field stars Usain Bolt and Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce 1962 following a referendum rejecting membership in retaining their titles as the fastest man and woman in the West Indies Federation. The country then received the world. This crowning achievement on this moa Westminster-style constitution with a Governor Gen- mentous occasion has ended the jubilee celebration on eral (representative of the Queen) and a House of Rep- a crescendo that the country could have hardly imagresentatives with elected members and a Senate ap- ined. Regardless of where in the world Jamaicans live, pointed by a Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposi- they celebrated this milestone in some form or fashion tion. Jamaica enjoyed economic success throughout the because of what their homeland means to them, and 60s and 70s through the mining of bauxite, manufac- here are some from Central Florida who just wanted to turing, and tourism, along with the traditional agri- say WALK GOOD JAMAICA FOR ANOTHER FIFTY YEARS!!

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Featuring the Soulful Sax of Renowned French Saxophonist Gilbert Dhennin Saturday, September 8, 2012 From: 4:00 pm 9:00 pm Orlando Garden Club 710 East Rollins Street Orlando, FL 32803 For tickets: Chris Joseph 407-325-5074 Donna Cadogan 407-856-4612 Eunice Roberts 407-353-2243 P.O. Box. 450786 • Kissimmee, FL 34743-0786 Phone (407) 694-7497 • Fax (888) 625-7288 aking_39@yahoo.com www.cafainc.org

Wednesday August 22, 2012 5:30pm Know Your Rights Soiree Event & Conference Center 6394 Silver Star Rd. Orlando, FL 32818

Saturday August 25, 2012

Cocktail Hour 7pm-8pm Trinbago Association 50th Independence Ball Double Tree by Hilton At Sea World 10100 International Dr. & Westwood Blvd.

Tickets $65 Info: ttacfl.org

Saturday August 25, 2012 3:00pm

Memorial Service for Gavin Kurt Campbell Piedmont Apostolic Church-Jesus 4440 Piedmont St. Orlando, FL 32811 Info: 407-298-5866

Monday September 3, 2012 12pm-8pm Caribbean Sunshine Bakery 20th year Celebration Labor day Extravaganza Tinker Field Tickets: Adults $10 Children $5 ($1 dollar from each ticket goes to the Hope for Danielle Fund) See back page for full details

Friday September 7, 2012 6:30pm

Dinner Served 7:15pm A Musical Banquet (Fund raising event to ship school supplies to Jamaica) Eastmonte Civic Center 830 Magnolia Dr. Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 Tickets: Adults $25 Children: $10 (ages 5 to 12) Call Caribbean One Stop-407-423-7552 Hair Essential-407-310-9276 Cal Allison-407-557-8792

Saturday September 8, 2012 8am-2pm 10th Annual Caribbean Health Summit Central Florida Fair Grounds 4603 W. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32808 Saturday September 8, 2012 4-9pm Gilbert Dhennin French Saxophonist Orlando Garden Club 710 E. Rollins St. Orlando, FL 32803

Saturday September 8, 2012

7pm Doors Open Da Shows Stopper Birthday Bash $20.00 9677 S. OBT, Orlando, FL 32837 Info: 352-217-6505

Sunday September 9, 2012

Guyanese American Cultural Association of Central Florida Fundraising Fish Fry Tickets $10.00 Venue: Rotary Club of West Orlando 475 S. Kirkman Rd. Orlando, FL

Saturday September 22, 2012 11am-7pm Bus Ride: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tickets $40 Bus leaves Aldi Supermarket Parking Lot @ 11am 5524 W. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL Info: 407-246-4570 or e-mail gacacf@gmail.com

Saturday October 6, 2012 7pm

3rd Alarm Fashion Show & After Party Rosen Plaza Hotel 9700 International Dr. Orlando, FL 32819 $25 Regular $35 VIP Pre-sale ends October 1, 2012 321-800-8838 or www.unityinuniform.org 10pm After Party Upper Level $10 or Free w/Fashion Show Arm Band

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Air Jamaica & Caribbean Airlines Share in the Spirit of Jamaica 50 with Independence Offers

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ort-of-Spain, Trinidad, 02 August 2012: Air Jamaica and Caribbean Airlines are sharing the 50th Anniversary spirit with customers by announcing special Independence offers timed to make the Jamaica 50 celebrations all the more exciting. From $50 tickets to 50,000miles, the airline is thanking loyal customers in the best way possible.

Clive Forbes, GM CAL Jamaica announced. ”In celebration of Jamaica 50th Anniversary and in recognition of the continuous support over the years of our valuable customers, Air Jamaica and Caribbean Airlines offer a “Jamaica 50 Special Anniversary Fare” from as low as US$50 plus taxes and applicable fees one way.”

Every day till the end of August, 50 seats will be offered at this special anniversary fare for passengers traveling to and from Jamaica and Fort Lauderdale for travel from September 10, 2012 to November 16, 2012.

This special offer is for a limited time only and tickets must be purchased between August 6, 2012 and August 31, 2012.

Not forgetting the very celebrated 7th Heaven Program members, CAL’s Senior Marketing manager Alicia Cabrera also announced “Today 10 of our top 7th Heaven frequent flyers members will be awarded 50, 000 miles each as a gesture of appreciation for their loyalty to the brand, additionally 10 complimentary club member kits were given to these frequent flyers as part of the airline’s 50th Anniversary celebration.”

Air Jamaica and Caribbean Airlines continue to offer the best value, with complimentary bags, snacks and the celebrated Caribbean energy that delivers one experience…the warmth of the islands.

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Letters to My Lawyer Letters to My Lawyer™ is a publication of Karlyn Hylton & Sasha Watson of Hylton, Adamson Watson & Moore, PLLC 120 E. Colonial Drive |Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-802-3223 Fax: 407-377-1971 E: letters@hawmlaw.com Dear Lawyer, I came to the US as a visitor and I have been living in the United States for the past twenty-five (25) years and my mother filed for me about four (4) years ago. I have two children ages twenty (20) and fourteen (14) that were born in the United States. I was recently laid off from my job that I had for over twenty years. Since then it has been very difficult since I can’t legally find a job and my driver’s license recently expired. Is there anything that can be done to speed up the application my mother filed or can I get a temporary work permit or license in the meantime?

Please help, Struggling Mother Dear Struggling Mother: Rest assured that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, your visa may not be available for another couple years based on the petition your Mother filed, as processing times for visas for adult sons and daughters of US citizens are taking approximately 10 years to be approved, provided you are unmarried, and longer if you are married. Further, this type of application will not be a simple process. You have been accruing unlawful presence in the United States since the period of stay you were granted in the US expired. This unlawful presence means that you are barred from being admitted to the United States for a period of 10 years because you have been unlawfully present in the US for more than 180 days. There are waivers available to overcome this bar on admission but they can sometimes be difficult to obtain. Because you are over 21 years of age, another hurdle to your application will be your inability to adjust status in the US. You are not considered an immediate relative of a US citizen and will need to return to your home country for visa processing and approval once the visa number becomes available. There is no provision under the Immigration & Nationality Act that would afford you the ability to adjust based on the petition filed by your mother.

On the other hand, your daughter may file for you once she becomes twenty one. As a parent of US citizen, who is 21 years or older, you fall within the immediate relative category which affords you many more benefits than any other category, such as the ability to adjust status and obtain your permanent resident card within the US. Moreover, this type of application can take anywhere between five (5) to nine (9) months for processing depending on where you reside. Additionally, your period of unlawful presence will be less problematic as your immediate relative status would be given more deference.

All in all, your immigration status is one that can be fixed by a competent immigration lawyer. You should seek a consultation immediately.

Regards, Sasha Watson, Esq. HAW&M, PLLC Please submit your letters to letters@hawmlaw.com.

Each month a reader’s letter will be chosen for response.

This column is primarily for educational purposes as well as to give the reader general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide any legal advice whatsoever. By reading this column you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and writer/publisher. This column should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney. This column is not published for advertising or solicitation purposes. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

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Haitian American News New Art Exhibition about Haitian Heritage in the Diaspora

By Natália Marques da Silva and Henry Sinn

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Ekspozisyon Atistik sou Eritaj Ayisyen nan Dyaspora a nan Winter Park, FL

By Natália Marques da Silva and Henry Sinn

inter Park, Fla. – From September 14th to December 29th Crealdé School of Art and the Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park will host the exhibition Keeping Haiti in Our Hearts: Interpreting Heritage in the Diaspora. The exhibition focuses on how traditional and contemporary Haitian art can be used to interpret heritage and culture. The selection of contemporary artists living in the United States includes Edouard Duval Carrié, Jude Papaloko Thegenius, Jerome Soimaud, Patrick Noze, and Victor Hugo. Those who live in Haiti include John Sylvestre (Epple Seed Arts); Frantz Charlemagne (Lobey Art & Travel); Kongo La Wouze, Myrland Constant, Jean Baptiste Jean Joseph, and Andre Eugene (Haitian Cultural Arts Alliance). The traditional paintings and flags will be borrowed from the Collection of Butler H. Smith, Jr. and Betty Ford-Smith and the Bryant West Indies Collection at the University of Central Florida.

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Ten Haitian and Haitian American families and individuals have been invited to preview the exhibition and discuss how each work relates to their own experiences in Haiti. During one of the family sessions, a 12 year old Haitian teenager who recently arrived in the United States described how an image of a Haitian woman selling goods in a market differed from how her family shops for food in Apopka, Florida. Meanwhile, two of her brothers, aged 10 and 11, argued over whether Jean Jacques Dessalines was really one of Haiti’s first liberators. Soon, all of the adults in the room also gathered around the image of Dessalines, and everyone discussed the leader’s role in the independence of Haiti. Quotes and memory statements in both English and Kreyòl from similar sessions will be used throughout the exhibit.

Nou te envite dis famni Ayisyen ak Ameriken Ayisyen pou gade ekspozisyion an anvan resepsyon an pou gade si atizay yo gen rapò ak lavi ke yo te genyen lè yo te rete Ayiti. Nan yon sesyon, yon ti fi ki genyen douz an e ki fèk rive nan Etazini te kompare yon imaj de yon fanm ayisyen kap vann machandiz nan yon market ak kouman fanmi li achte manje nan Apopka, Florida.

Pandan setan, de fre li yo, ki aje de 10 e 11 an, ap diskite sou Jean Jacques Dessalines apre yo te wè yon imaj de li. Tou swit, tout granmoun nan chamn nan te rasanble alantou imaj Dessalines la, epi tout moun tap diskite sou ròl Dessalines te genyen nan endepandans Ayisyen. Etikèt ekspozisyon an ap genyen rapò ke fanmi yo te ban nou an Kreyòl e an Anglè.

Keeping Haiti in Our Hearts will also include a personalized Haitian Tap Tap bus. Our Tap Tap will be provided by Jeff Rogers from Epple Seed Arts and painted by local Haitian artist Patrick Noze. The paint for the bus has been provided by Miller’s Hardware, one of the oldest family owned business in Winter Park, and by the Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce (GHACC). Come help us paint Patrick’s design on Saturday, September 8th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m and see the finished product on the exhibition’s opening!

Official opening festivities will take place on Friday, September 14th at Crealdé’s main campus on 600 St. Andrews Boulevard from 7:00 to 8:30 pm; and then at the Heritage Square Heritage Center 642 West New England Avenue from 8:30 to 10:00 pm.

Both venues will include free food and musical performances that have been provided by Crealdé, the Consulate of Haiti in Orlando, and the Chamber (GHACC). On September 29th we invite you to revisit Crealde’s exhibit from 4 to 6 pm for a community discussion on what it means to be Haitian American.

inter Park, Fla. – Soti 14 Sèptanm rive 29 Desanm 2012, Crealdé School of Art ak Hannibal Square Heritage Center ap prezante ekspozisyion Keeping Haiti in Our Hearts: Interpreting Heritage in the Diaspora (Kenbe Ayiti nan kè nou: entèprete eritaj nan dyaspora a). Ekspozisyon sa ap konsantre sou kouman nou ka itilize atizay Ayisyen tradisyonèl ak kontanporen pou entèprete eritaj ak kilti. Seleksyon atis kontanporen kap viv nan Etazini se: Edouard Duval Carrié, Jude Papaloko Thegenius, Jerome Soimaud, Patrick Noze, e Victor Hugo.

Atis kap viv nan Ayiti se John Sylvestre (Epple Seed Arts); Frantz Charlemagne (Lobey Art & Travel); Kongo La Wouze, Myrland Constant, Jean Baptiste Jean Joseph, e Andre Eugene (Haitian Cultural Arts Alliance). Penti ak drapo tradisyonèl yo ap soti nan koleksyon Butler H. Smith, Jr. ak Betty Ford-Smith. epi koleksyon Bryant West Indies nan University of Central Florida.

Keeping Haiti in Our Hearts ap genyen yon tap-tap tou. Jeff Rogers, ki se direktè Epple Seed Arts, yon òganizasyon sou atizay ayisyen, pral prete tap-tap li a, epi atis ayisyen Patrick Noze pral fè desen yo sou li. Penti pou tap tap la soti nan Miller’s Hardware, youn nan pi ansyen biznis fanmi nan Winter Park, epi Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce (GHACC) kap sevi kominote Orlando depi lontan. Vin ede Patrick pentire tap-tap la nan Samdi, 8 Sèptanm de 11:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m. Ou ka gade tap-tap la ki fin pentire lè ekspozisyion an ouvri!

Ekspozisyion an ap ouvri nan Vandredi, 14 Sèptanm nan lekòl Crealdé nan adrès 600 St. Andrews Blvd de 7:00 a 8:30 p.m. ak yon pèfòmans de Island Groove; epi nan Hannibal Square Heritage Center nan adrès 642 West New England Ave. de 8:30 a 10:00 p.m. ak yon lòt pèfòmans mizik de Jean Michel Daudier. Manje a e mizik la se kotizasyon de Crealdé School of Art, Consulat de la Republik d’Haïti nan Orlando, epi Chamb Komes la (GHACC).

Nou envite ou vin vizite ekspozisyion an ankò nan 29 Sèptanm de 4:00 a 6:00 p.m. pou yon diskisyon kominotè sou sijè ki sinifikasyon Ayisyen Ameriken.

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Message from CACCF-CAHM Chairperson — Continued from page 11 —

the City of Orlando and Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs Department take this opportunity to thank all our friends, families and supporters who helped us promote, prepare and present CAHM 2012 to the greater Central Florida community.

cial support needed and the members of our planning committee who made the personal sacrifice of their time and resources to make our events of CAHM 2012 a tremendous success. Our projections to shut-down Lake Eola and the downtown area by 2015 are all falling into place…….CAHM 2013 A special ‘Thank You’ to our sponsors who gave us the finan- here we come ready or not!

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Professional Opportunities Program for Students, Inc.

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usinesses in the Central Florida community have partnered with the Professional Opportunities Program for Students, Inc. (POPS) in Orange and Osceola counties as part of their commitment to making a difference in the lives of teen youth.

great experience for both her and us.”

Founded in 2001, POPS is a non-profit, 501 © (3) communitybased organization that provides educational, developmental, civic, community-service, and paid internships for underserved 15-18 year old high school students. The program partners POPS placed 130 students into numerous paid internships with schools, businesses, and the community to support and through Central Florida this summer. They have collaborated encourage 440 at-risk teenagers in Orange, Osceola, and six with 72 business partners with the purpose of employing and other counties to complete high school, pursue advanced edumentoring POPS students. cation, and obtain gainful employment.

The summer internships give the students the opportunity to ex- POPS has several events planned to bring awareness to the orercise the professional and career based information received by ganization. On Saturday, August 25, 2012, through grants from POPS counselors and workshop presenters during the school year. the Orange County Neighborhood Services Division and TD Charitable Foundation, POPS is partnering with Orange CounLinda Richema, a student interested in the medical field and try Safety Village, Winnie Dixie and STAR 94.5 for a day of Safety Sharvay Beckford, an aspiring engineer both of Evans High Workshops and a PSA Video Shoot focused on Bullying for high School were place at Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) school students. On Saturday, September 8, 2012 they will sponin Winter Garden. Dahlia Rochell of LANGD said, “This was sor a Zumba Fest at Mech Tech Institute (near Florida Mall) that our first experience with the intern program, but we hope to includes 3 ? hours of Zumba and health related activities for do it again next year.” UCF College of Medicine said the fol- one great price. Finally, on Thursday, September 13, 2012 the lowing about their intern, Sanley Richemond, “In just a short “Ultimate Mix & Mingle” at Ember Lounge (Downtown) will be time, Sanley has become a part of the team. this has been a held to help raise money for the organization.

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LEADING LADIES BEHIND THE SCENES AND ON THE FRONT LINE Welcome to my column on Leading Ladies behind the Scenes. Our column will introduce you to leading ladies who have branded their own recognition and blazed their own trails. These ladies work behind the scenes but manage the front line with high impact results. You might have heard their names or admired their work, but never met them up close and personal. Our column will give you the chance to meet these ladies so you can place a face with the name and their trendsetting work in our community, various organizations and in business. Thank you for celebrating their value with us.

Nouchelle Hastings: “Girl What Do You Bring to the Table?”

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Ronita Marie Sanders

t’s been said that a picture is worth a thousand words plain the lesson from them were understood by all inclusive then spending a day in the life of Ronita M. Sanders is of colleagues and parents that each of us should take rea documentary. sponsibility for our own actions and there are no options or alternatives for excuses. The joy for those she touched at Ronita Marie Sanders, An advocate for civic and social partici- Jones High School is the returned joy for Ronita when the pation. Ronita Marie Sanders is respected as one of Central core from yesterday reminds her of her focus quote and how Florida’s most esteemed humanitarians it has changed their life today. The joy and progressive community leaders. for me was learning a parable of a true While Ronita’s extensive list of accomstory shared by Ronita about a time plishments, accolades and acknowwhen she was exploring options to re1ledgements could fill pages, she is most lieve her aching feet. (Please keep in known and proud of her innate and mind her feet look like a million bucks). unyielding catalyst efforts to promote and engage in forward moving social The story was more or less about the and civic change in this area and education of why people have issues abroad. Ronita is the proud daughter with their feet and options of of Juanita Hailey Sanders. correction. In her case, she found out that she had one additional bone that Ronita, whose philosophy is ‘to much is caused much of her pain and given much is expected’, is a pioneerdiscomfort. As she continued to talk ing and visionary leader. As the Area passionately about the experience, I Director to Congresswoman Corrine zoned in for the lesson. She continued Brown, Third Congressional District, FL, to share that an example non-related she champions causes for the less fortuto her foot issue, but one that could easnate and underrepresented individuals, ily be identified in common with most children and families of the United people. Many say corns come from States Congressional District Three. wearing the wrong type of shoes or Ronita, who is best described as a wearing the wrong shoe size, but how humble and blessed servant, is involved often will we go to a podiatrist or spein the community and continuously cialist to explore what’s beneath the strives to work for the betterment of the skin that is causing pain and non-apcity, county, state and nation. pealing aesthetic. With education and Ronita Marie Sanders a plan of action you can accomplish just Her affiliations, memberships and volunteer efforts are numer- about anything. And who would have imagined that the story ous; Ronita attended and graduated from the public schools in would tie back into her daily life. The same careful way we Orange County. She is a proud graduate of Jones High School want our outside to appear is the same careful way we must and alumnus of Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia make sure our internal concepts are pure and well thought out and that what is on the inside of us cause others to excel, achieve and succeed vs. agony, pain and defeat.

“Who I am and what I do is what I do for others.”

where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications/ Broadcast Management and Theatre. She enjoys modeling, directing plays and acting.

When speaking with Ronita one can only become more smitten with every word she speaks in her most calming and confident voice laced with sultry poise. “Who I am and what I do is what I do for others” Ronita responded to one of my comments. In short my column is only a millimeter of this fortress of a woman’s story. You literally have to spend a day in the mighty shadow or mega steps Ronita walks in to get the full experience; it’s more rewarding and thrilling that a giant coaster. It’s nonstop, always on point and yielding impacting results every time all the time.

Ronita shared that working for Congresswoman Brown is a beloved place to be – a place where trust is the root that drives the relationship. She offered that when you work with someone who sees their work as a mission to make life better for our communities, it becomes your mission and the common thread to how all efforts are carried out. Congresswoman Brown’s team represents the 3rd District in theoretically, but this team represents the finest humanity has to offer.

Central Florida is very proud to acknowledge Ronita Sanders

“Excuses are tools of incompetence; those who use them seldom amount to anything.”

as a humanitarian who has been an unyielding mechanism Ronita, a former teacher at Jones for over twenty years taught for social and civic change and made a positive and far-reachon this wise “excuses are tools of incompetence; those who ing impact in the lives of many. If you want to get her know use them seldom amount to anything” and then there are her better or volunteer contact Ronita at the Office of Conthe parables and the stories that she would share—stories so gresswoman Corrine Brown Orlando: (407) 872-2208.

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The Soca Warrior Awards

5 $ n e r d l i h C Adults $10

The Caribbean Community invites you to a special community meeting for Hope For Danielle, the 15 year old shot in Pine Hills, this meeting will be held. Thursday, August 30th at Life Worth Living Pharmacy, 6488 Currin Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32835. From 6pm - 8pm.

Tel: 407-427-1800. All are encouraged to attend. This is a meeting to discuss how we will proceed as a Caribbean Community to support Danielle and her family.

Caribbean Sunshine Bakery has pledged to give $1.00 from every ticket sold at their September 3rd, 20th Anniversary Celebration to the Hope for Danielle Fund. What will you do? How will you help? Join the publishers of Caribbean Passport Newspaper & the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce for a community discussion.

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