Caribbean American Passport December 2012

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NEWS MAGAZINE

Mentorship matching part Season’s Soiree Event Center’s 1st of Greetings!

Annual Turkey Giveaway ingle bells, mistle-

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toe and boughs of holly? If you’re from the Caribbean, it means rum cake, sorrel, gingerbeer, and parang! Yes, it’s that time of the year again!

Orlando is a wonderful city at Christmas and it transforms into a Winter Wonderland without the stress of frightful snowstorms.

Whether you live in Orlando or plan on spending two or twelve days here, this season, Orlando has enough festive celebrations for you to enjoy. Enjoy my list of Favorite things that has some of the activities I enjoy during Christmas in Orlando.

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See story on page 11

Jamaican patois Bible released “Di Gud Nyuuz bout Jiizus”

Advocates view the translation as an empowering move that will affirm the indigenous tongue as a distinct language.

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fter years of meticulous translation from the original Greek, the Bible Society in Jamaica is releasing print

and audio CD versions of the first patois translation of the New Testament, or “Di Jamiekan Nyuu Testiment.”

Continued on page 18

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L I F E S T Y L E

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s the Christmas Season approaches, it is a special time in the Caribbean. So for those of us living outside of the Caribbean, we feel the pull of nostalgia. The house has to be cleaned thoroughly before decorations could be put up. For me as a Guyanese, I have to check that I have my casareep ready to make pepperpot, and my vinegar ready for my garlic pork. Both must haves during the Christmas season.

I’ve made this life very special here in the US. Sam and I have many friends who we adore, we’ve made our own memories Christmas Carolling at our home every Christmas Season, but at Christmas time, the pull is the strongest to go hooooome! To stop working and start liming (hanging out) from December 1st until after New Year. To just start visiting friends and enjoy the season. Christmas in America is a work in progress, people celebrate for 1 or 2 days and that’s it. But for me I’m looking to bring those feelings of peace, love and friendship to my life here in America.

Just as I was about to fall into the usual homesick pity party I came across the article below. It was written by a St. Lucian but could be about any part of the Caribbean. To all of you homesick people out there, read and reflect. It’s my gift to you. We’re home right here, make the best you can. I’ve given myself permission to have a two week vacation at this time.

I’m not working for a blessed two weeks during the Christmas season. My home is right here in Orlando, I intend to make my Christmas memories the best that I can, because as much as I miss and love the Caribbean, my home, my life - the one I love, is right here in America.

Season’s Greetings from my family to yours, Guenet Gittens-Roberts

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To go home or not

By Adrian Augier

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fter half a life of caring for everyone but herself, an exhausted wife may well contemplate running away from home. A mid-life businessman – mortgage paid, kids finished school, some money saved – might think of relocating to a future rich with guiltless possibilities. But for hundreds of young St. Lucians studying abroad, where to live is a question of an entirely different colour.

If there’s a family business, a plot of debt-free land, or some promised post still waiting, a few will eagerly return. But many young undergrads – in Canada, England, America, Cuba or Trinidad – foresee at best, a doubtful future and feel a dwindling sense of national obligation.

After three or more years in a world of higher incomes and stronger growth, they view their new degree as a tradable asset offering immediate returns. In a vibrant, if foreign labour market, it is the first step to even higher earnings. Retreating now would feel like the end of learning, unplugged from the mainstream of professional advancement.

By comparison, home is a stagnant backwater. Even for the wealthy and well-connected, it is a tangle of pot-luck politics and vengeful personalities. For students from modest circumstances, prospects are even more daunting. Return implies building a future from scratch in an economy with no discernible direction. Better to stay abroad: learn, work, save, grow.

Over there, new paths and old pitfalls are fairly clear: there is a perceptible order to society. If one follows the rules, there will be certain rewards and assurances, whether you are Joe Plumber or Marcella, a gifted software designer with village roots in Mon Repos. Success is the expected norm, not the coveted exception.

Granted, it is tough going with fewer family and friends. But at least daily life is not frustrated by arbitrary ignorance. Out there, the enemy is known, and it is not some ministry official messing with your life just because he can. Whatever happens, you do not labour under the illusion that you deserve a break in your own country.

Meanwhile back home, others also want out. They crave escape, living for the day when they too will be sent for. The family home, with its aging parents and a slew of heirs, offers few possibilities. It is not their capital to mortgage.

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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 ....................................................................................... Mark Bannister Distribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

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Governor Scott Drops His Opposition to the Affordable Care Act

a recent interview with The Associated Press, Governor Scott said “The election is over and President won. I’m responsible for the families of Florida. If I can get to yes, I want to get to yes. The governor is now writing letters to the federal government to see if they can work together to make things happen.

Florida is behind in setting the state’s infrastructure and sysBy Roger Caldwell tem for the Affordable Care Act. Health and Human Services Secretary, Kathleen Sebelius has announced a monthly extension for states to determine if they will be setting up health insurance markets under the law. They have three options: 1) running their own exchanges, 2) operating an exchange in partnership with the federal health officials, or 3) letting the n the last two years, Governor Scott has spent millions of feds handle everything.

Florida’s taxpayers’ money in trying to repeal Obamacare.

There was never a vote taken in the state to see if Florid- It is my belief that Governor Scott would prefer to control his ians agreed with the governor’s position on the Affordable Care exchange, and he is letting the media know that he is ready to Act. Instead, Governor Scott thought that the Republicans would eat humble pie. There are probably states that are 50% comwin back the presidency, but everything back fired in his face. plete, and they were not busy fighting the federal government, The Supreme Court ruled that the Affordable Care Act was con- and they are better organized. stitutional and it is the law of the land. Even before the election, Governor Scott was still adamant about not implement- Nevertheless, Governor Scott has always bragged that he was ing the exchange or expanding the Medicaid program to en- a successful CEO, and he has the ability to accelerate and impleroll more people in the program. But, after the Republicans ment corporate systems and also political systems. Everyone lost the presidential election, Governor Scott knew it was nec- in the state is keeping their fingers crossed that Governor Scott essary to make some changes. does a better job than he did with counting ballots.

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Florida has had the nation’s third-highest rate of residents without health insurance during the past three years. It was very ironic that Governor Scott, one of the loudest critics of President Obama’s Obamacare, is governor of a state with one of of the highest rates of residents without health insurance.

It is my understanding that the federal government picked up a 100% of the cost for the first two years. It is not necessary for the governor to make any cuts, and if he follows the federal government things should go smoothly.

In elections you either win or lose. Once you are in office, it’s Governor Scott is learning how to back-pedal and he has how you play the game, and sometimes you win and somedropped his staunch opposition to the Affordable Care Act. In times you lose.

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ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort Nov. 10 - Jan. 1

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ore than two million lights, a 54-foot-tall Christmas tree, heartwarming visits with Santa, captivating musical events and exclusive holiday events await you and your family at the Gaylord Palms. Discover how Gaylord Palms is like no other holiday destination with Merry Madagascar featuring characters from the DreamWorks Animation films carved out of ice. ICE! features two-story tall ice slides carved from two million pounds of ice and a tribute to the unforgettable classic.

Holidays Around the World: Candlelight Processional Nov. 23 - Dec. 30

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he Epcot theme park is transformed into an international celebration of Yuletide traditions filled with decorations and live entertainment during the holidays. Delight in the sights and sounds of the season during Epcot’s Candlelight Processional held nightly at the American Gardens Theatre. The event retells the stirring story of Christmas with a special celebrity narrator accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir.

City of Celebration Snowfall and Events EVERY Night through December 31st * (including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve)

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ightly Snow Falls at 6, 7, 8 and 9 PM. Photos with Santa, Strolling Holiday Carolers, an Ice Rink, Entertainment and more!

Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier “Snowing” event, offers an all new ice rink and a schedule filled with surprises. Now Snowing is a month long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens Carolers, community performers, photos with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, the Celebration Express train, and nightly snowfall at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00 and 9:00 PM.

Rock the New Year! at Universal CityWalk Dec. 31

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ith exciting live performances from various artists, Universal CityWalk’s “Rock the New Year!” is one of Orlando’s hottest New Year’s Eve parties. In addition to live music, enjoy an expansive gourmet buffet, a champagne toast and live entertainment at the various nightclubs, including the groove, an electrifying dance club; CityJazz, a hip jazz venue; Jimmy Buffett’s Magaritaville and others.

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Diwali Raffle Winners December issue

Raffle winners drawn on November 10th 2012. SSD Temple wishes to thank all members of our community for their donations, congratulations to; 1st prize winner Raul Khan, NY, 2nd Lloyd Rambarransingh, Miami, 3rd Babita Dhanie, Kissimmee, sellers prize Collins John, Orlando.

From Our Staff & Management!

From the Management & Staff of Kaiteur Tropical Mist Restaurant 1718 North Main Street Kissimmee, FL 34744-3307 PH: 407-847-9385

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Caricom says US Rum subsidies could hurt Caribbean rum manufacturers

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aribbean Community (CARICOM) countries say they continue to have “serious concerns” regarding the competitiveness of Caribbean rum in the United States and have renewed calls for talks with Washington on the issue.

A statement issued at the end of the CARICOM Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) noted that rum production and export were critical to the socio-economic wellbeing of the region.

“In addition to being the largest agriculture-based export industry in CARICOM, the rum industry is a substantial employer and a major contributor to foreign exchange earnings and government revenues,” the statement said at the end of the two-day meeting on Tuesday.

It said as a result, CARICOM continues to have serious concerns about the threat to the competitiveness of Caribbean rum in the United States market resulting from the massive subsidies provided by the governments of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and Puerto Rico to multinational rum producers in those territories.

“The nature and scale of these subsidies are such that they threaten to distort rum markets not only in the US but elsewhere,” CARICOM warned, adding that “time is not on the side of the Caribbean rum industry.

“ . . . the rum industry is a substantial employer and a major contributor to foreign exchange earnings and government revenues.”

“Given the likely deleterious effect of these subsidies on the long-term viability of an industry which is of such critical importance to the economic fabric of so many countries in the region, the COTED supports strongly the deep commitment of CARICOM countries to pursuing all avenues available to secure a resolution of this matter that restores the competitive balance in the marketplace.”

COTED said that it was calling on the United States to “engage early with Caribbean rum-producing countries with a view to achieving an outcome that will support the continued competitive access for Caribbean rum to the US market”.

Following their annual summit in July, CARICOM leaders said they would approach Washington for discussions on the issue.

CARICOM Secretary General Irwin LaRocque said that the rum issue, involving Diageo, the global rum producer, continues to “threaten Caribbean rum into the US market, and the leaders agreed that strong and urgent political intervention was needed to address that issue.

“There is a concern with regards to some subsidy that is being provided for Diageo, the multilateral and one of the largest rum producers which is currently located in St Croix in the US Virgin Islands,” said LaRocque.

“There is an arrangement in the US government that allows for resources to be provided based on the exports of rum from the Virgin Islands, but more than that the resources are being used to provide a direct subsidy for a modern rum factory that is being constructed in St Croix,” he added.

In August, the UK-based Diageo reportedly warned that should CARICOM mount a complaint to the World Trade Organization (WTO) over the alleged subsidies it would ‘re-evaluate’ its Caribbean interests.

Diageo has denied ‘flooding’ the US market and has defended the US governments 100 year old “cover over” programme, which it said granted the USVI and Puerto Rico much-needed revenues to promote economic stability and fiscal autonomy.

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Are We Serious this Time?!

Whether Immigration Reform is truly possible . . . and What Must it Look Like time jobs are created. This needs to change in order to attract more investors.

Third, in addition to benefitting the economy, the law should promote family unity. As far as any new legislation is concerned, remember that the devil is in the details. What may be

By Shahzad Ahmed, presented as “Comprehensive Immigration Reform” may acAttorney at Law tually undermine your important values, such as family unity.

Minority groups, mainly Latin Americans, and immigrant advocacy groups ,strongly opposed the immigration “reform” proposed in 2007. The reason: Although the bill provided a guest worker program to benefit the big corporations, it sought to eliminate certain family-based categories, i.e. parents and siblings of U.S. citizens. Thus, family unity should not be comfter a long season of campaigning and bickering, most promised. pundits agree that it is the immigrant community that determined the outcome of the Presidential election. Last, the new legislation should remove the 3 and 10-year bars.

The influence of the immigrant community can be ignored no We need to urge Congress to repeal the infamous “3/10 year longer and so the major political parties have announced that bar”, which mandates that an alien unlawfully present in the they will revisit the idea of having comprehensive immigra- U.S. for a certain time, will be barred for 3 or 10 years upon tion reform. departure from the U.S. This backward law punishes the aliens for doing the right thing, i.e. departing the U.S. after accruing However, could the words “Immigration Reform” truly become unlawful presence for a certain time. This provision is the primore than mere talking points of the politicians and actually mary reason why many illegal aliens do not leave the United materialize into law this time? As we know, we have heard a States. Congress needs to enact immigration provisions that lot of talk on this subject in the past and any major reform has are practical. eluded the nation for the past many years.

Will comprehensive immigration reform finally happen? We In my opinion, the new legislation should accomplish four hope so, but do not know for sure. But given the growing inimportant things (in addition to security, of course). First, it fluence of the immigrant community on politics, the prosshould provide an opportunity to the youth. In June of 2012, pects of immigration reform appear much more likely than the President implemented a policy of “Deferred Action for they have in the past many years. This time, Congress must Childhood Arrivals,” which provided some relief to certain pass sensible reform that is fair to immigrants and beneficial youth who were brought to the United States through no fault to our nation. of their own and were not convicted of a serious crime. However, this did not provide any means of a permanent residence to these individuals. It is hoped that any new legislation, will provide a path to citizenship for such children.

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Season’s Greetings

Second, any new policies legislation should promote investment in the United States. Our country is facing economically challenging times. However, even during such times, the United States is seen as a beacon of hope by many foreigners who wish to invest and live here. We need to ease some of the interpretations of our existing laws about the requirements of business visas. For example, numerous applicants have been denied business visas because the USCIS strictly interpreted the definition of “manager,” “employee,” or “the employer’s ability to pay.” Further, we need new legal provisions which permit investors of substantial funds to gain permanent residency in the United States. For example, investors of a treaty country under the E-2 visa, are not provided a path to permanent residency unless their investment reaches $1 million and 10 full-

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from Millennium Eye Center

ImmigrationINFO

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Immigration News for Our Community Inspection Upon Arrival in the U.S. You may always ask to speak with a CBP supervisor.

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

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nited States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is an agency within the Department of Homeland Security.

The agency is responsibility for keeping America’s borders safe and secure while encouraging legitimate travel and trade. To accomplish this, CBP officers must screen all arriving people, goods and vehicles to make sure they meet all requirements for entry into the United States.

CBP collects information about people traveling into and out of the United States. This includes basic biographic data, travel documents and their unique identifiers, where the traveler is staying in the U.S. and the planned purpose for the traveler’s visit. This information may be collected from a traveler at a port of entry, or, in the case of international air and sea travel, it may be collected before a traveler’s arrival in or departure from the U.S. This information is used to determine the admissibility of aliens and to effectively and efficiently enforce U.S. laws at the border.

Why you may be chosen for an inspection • Your travel documents are incomplete, or you do not have the proper documents or visa; • You have previously violated one of the laws CBP enforces; • You name matches a person of interest in one of the government’s enforcement databases; or • You have been selected for a random search.

The Congress of the United States has authorized CBP to enforce all homeland security-related laws and laws of other federal agencies at the border and to conduct searches and examinations necessary to assure compliance with those laws.

CBP’s broad authority therefore allows them to conduct searches of people and their baggage, cargo, and means of transportation entering the United States.

It is at this point of entry into the United States that non-immigrant visas (such as a B-1/B-2 tourist visa) and lawful permanent residents are inspected to determine whether they will be admitted to the United States. There are various reason and laws that may be applied to find such a person inadmissible into the United States. The holder of a visa or permanent resident card (green card) is not automatically allowed to enter If you are subject to inspection, you should be treated in a the U.S. – he or she must be inspected and found to be admiscourteous, dignified, and professional manner. The CBP sible into the U.S. by CBP officers. If a non-immigrant visa officer may request specific, detailed information about holder is found inadmissible and not allowed in the U.S. then your travel, may inspect your baggage (including elec- they will be turned away at the port of entry. If a permanent tronic devices), or may conduct a personal search. A resident is found inadmissible (due to length of stay outside search may not be made on any discriminatory basis (e.g., the U.S. or criminal grounds) then they will be paroled into the solely based on race, gender, religion, ethnic background). U.S. pending removal proceedings at the Immigration Court.

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JAMAICAN DIASPORA SOUTHERN UNITED STATES PUBLIC SUPPORT

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ort Lauderdale, Florida–December 2012–The fundraising initiatives of the Jamaica Diaspora Southern USA are being kicked started by the generous donations of community businesses. The initiatives include: HURRICANE RELIEF – Aid for those in Eastern Jamaican who were affected by “Sandy”

For our Sports Awareness Campaign - Proclamations were requested and received from Mayors of three predominant Jamaican Cities, Lauderhill, Lauderdale Lakes and Miramar, proclaiming October 23 as Jamaica Women Football (Reggae Girlz) Awareness Day.

We will collaborate with the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), on their programs endorsed by Fédération Internationale de FootHEALTH – Placing Blood Pressure Machines in every Hospital ball Association (FIFA), to develop a holistic girls sports develop& Clinic in Jamaica ment program which will target Jamaican girls ages 6 to 24, this program will tie in with our health and education initiatives.

EDUCATION – Constructing a Basic School in Jamaica partnering with Food For the Poor SPORTS – Supporting the Reggae Girlz and females in football In support of these efforts of the Jamaican Diaspora, Victoria Mutual Building Society’s (VMBS) Manager, Ms. Suzette Rochester has made a worthwhile monetary contribution to aid the Health Initiative. VMBS have also committed to sponsoring the Diaspora’s Winter Forum - which will be focused on the Youth and our Future Leaders!

According to Ms. Rochester, “VMBS considers initiatives such as these being spearheaded under the Jamaican Diaspora to be a part of our corporate social responsibility as we focus on nation building for…Jamaica Land We Love”!

Anyone interested in supporting the Reggae Girlz Awareness Campaign please email alumni@jhsasn.com All Jamaican businesses, organizations and individuals in the USA are being asked to support these worthy causes. We ask of you to make this a meaningful contribution by sacrificing something (a meal, a drink, a haircut…anything) especially during this season of giving, and donating the money saved to one of the Jamaica Diaspora Initiatives.

We can do this….our children are our future, let us leave lasting legacies.

The Diaspora’s education The community will be kept apprised of our progress and fundproject and other operations will also be supported by LIME, ing in the coming weeks - a donation website is being created.

“We are committed to partnering with The Jamaica Diaspora – Southern USA over the coming year” affirmed LIME’s Head Contact Dr. Susan Lycett Davis, 954-648-2800 of Diaspora Sales, Mr. Colin V. Benjamin. info@jamaicadiaspora.org

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Guyanese writer, Jan Carew, passes away at 92

uyanese writer Jan Carew passed away at his home in Louisville, Kentucky on December 5th. He was 92.

One of the most prominent West Indian writers of his generation, Carew was a poet, playwright, novelist and scholar. He was best known for his 1958 novel “Black Midas” and his 1964 polemic “Moscow Is Not My Mecca”. In addition to his literary work, Carew was a noted political (he was a staunch Pan-Africanist) and environmental activist.

United States, Czechoslovakia and France.

Carew is best known for his first novel Black Midas as well as The Wild Coast and his memoir, Ghosts in Our Blood: With Malcolm X in Africa, England and the Caribbean. His most recent work, ‘Potaro Dreams: My youth In Guyana,’ a memoir which highlights his childhood years, is scheduled for release sometime next year. Carew worked in England as a broadcaster and writer with the BBC and lectured in race relations at London University’s Department of Extra-Mural Studies. He has also lived in Spain, Ghana, His wife, Joy Carew, said, “He touched many Canada and Mexico before settling in the lives, both directly and indirectly, and while United Stated, where he taught at many unihe is gone from us in a physical sense, I know versities, including Princeton, Rutgers, he’ll remain in our collective hearts and George Mason, Lincoln University, and the minds,” she said. Carew also said that her husband, who helped University of Louisville. to write his own obituary, was never afraid of death. He referred to himself as a Renaissance man and spent most of his leisure The Ministry of Culture in Guyana, said in a statement that time travelling as that was his passion. though Carew spent most of his adult life away from his homeland, “his varied volume of work has depicted Guyana and “A wandering minstrel uprooted and cast abroad by the im- the Caribbean, securing the region’s literary legacy amongst perial imperative, he rooted himself wherever he was in the the international literary and academic landscape.” struggles of the people around him. And he was in many places, wearing many faces, but always in the same cause: Apart from his wife, who is a professor at the University of freedom for the oppressed and downtrodden - writing, teaching, broadcasting, engaging with mighty men and women” is how Carew is described in his obituary.

“A wandering minstrel uprooted and cast abroad by the imperial imperative, he rooted himself wherever he was in the struggles of the people around him.”

Born in Guyana in 1920, two years after World War I, Carew spent most of his life abroad. He led varied lives as a writer, educator, philosopher Louisville, Carew is survived by his daughters Lisa St. Aubin de and advisor to several nation states. After his initial educa- Teran, Shantoba Eliza Carew, and son David Christopher Carew tion in Guyana, Carew went on to study at universities in the and many grandchildren.

Mentorship matching part of Soiree Event Center’s 1st Annual Turkey Giveaway — Continued from page 1 —

The mentoring is part of a renewed effort following the high-profile shooting of Danielle Sampson, 15, who was caught in the middle of a shootout as she rode in her family’s van through Pine Hills.

Danielle is still medically Organizers – Owners of categorized as being in a Soiree, Naresh and coma, but she has been Nadia Khublal did this making progress. She has event to meet what they opened her eyes and is say is a growing need breathing on her own but because of the sputtering her life and her family’s economy and a dire need life has been terribly alin the Pine Hills commutered forever. However, nity for mentors. instead of being angry and not facing the problem, Commu“I believe Pine Hills could be a community like Windermere, nity leaders said they’re convinced mentoring programs prelike Dr. Phillips, if we get the right people involved,” said event vent crimes like the one that left Danielle in a coma. center owner Nadia Khublal.

“Everybody can’t afford to do things like give out turkeys; but Lorraine Warden got the first turkey given out. “There’s people give time! If you have time to volunteer and give back, that here we talked to in line that have been out of work six, seven could change someone’s life,” said Khublal. months. This is something their family will be able to enjoy,” The soiree team, organized a wonderful giveaway effort of more said Warden. than 400 turkeys, but their impact will be felt for a long time on Before anyone got to pick up a turkey, they had to check in with the community as they continue to work to change the Pine Hills volunteers who collected information from each family. The in- community. They said their efforts to recruit mentors for the community will continue beyond the Thanksgiving turkey giveaway. formation will be used later to match children with mentors.

Soiree Event Center gave away turkeys to hundreds on Nov. 21st and took the opportunity to recruit mentors and to find out if families needed mentors in their lives.

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Bollywood comes to the Orlando Magic

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he Orlando Magic in association with the Indian American Chamber of Com-

merce (IACC) will host India Night on January 27th. It will feature Indian dances, music, display tables and other activities.

The Orlando Magic have designated Sunday, January 27, 2013 as the first “India Day” celebration. Indian culture will be displayed through dancing, display tables, and other activities from 4-6 pm.

The Magic Dancers will perform a Bollywood routine, but there will also be Bhangra, Garba, Dandiya etc. performed by local Indian American dancers as well.

Indian snacks will be available at the concession stands and a short video on Indian culture and performing arts will be played on TV screens. The colors of India will be brought to Florida.

Different levels of sponsorship packages are available. Tickets are now available for IACC’s India Night.

For sponsorship packages and event information, please visit www.iaccorlando.com or contact Beena Parikh at 321-217-8605 or Dr Amish Parikh at aparikh@premiercardiology.net.

SEASONS GREETINGS! in the coming year may you be blessed with success, prosperity and happiness!

— From the Management & Staff of Caribbean Supercenter

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‘MILESTONE MOMENTS JAMAICANS IN BUSINESS’ Celebration Dinner/Dance Banquet ‘MILESTONE MOMENTS - JAMAICANS IN BUSINESS’ Celebration Dinner/Dance Banquet event was held at the Orlando Airport Marriott Hotel Sat. Nov. 17, 2012. This event marked the launch of Jamaicans in Business magazine. The VIP reception featured cultural performances, exhibits, Jamaican dialect by Jennifer Copeland and poetry by Marsha Wilson.

Organizer of the event, Sandy Isaacs recently spoke about the event

Karen Lee Fatt (New Frontiers Ministries), Rohan Lawrence (Bun Bun Rice Productions), Inez Wallace (Caribbean American Assoc. of Lake County), Paulette Anderson (Majestic International Pageant), Lois Dunbar (Socialite), Dr. Phillip Lee Fatt (New Frontiers Ministries Gospel Show)

Marie Gill, President of the JamaicaUSA Chamber of Commerce who was ‘Keynote Speaker Extraordinaire’ is all smiles at the ’Jamaicans In Business’ focus event.

“It was an extraordinary event filled with special fixings, extraordinary people, Distinguished Guests, Movers, Shakers and Difference Makers and so much more...The preview of which started earlier in the day when Executive Chef Tony and I were featured on the ‘Good Day’ Morning Show which airs on FOX 35 TV. Utilizing unique Caribbean seasonings provided by event Sponsors, Ocho Rios Foods, Chef Tony cooked up ‘island style chicken’ on the air which Newscasters Lauren and Tom found to be absolutely delicious!”

Junior Simmonds & Pauline Cameron are onlookers as Hezedean (Dean) Smith, District Chief with Orlando Fire Dept. checks out the ‘In The Spotlight’ section of ‘Jamaicans In Business’ debut magazine.

Glen & Lorna Grant pose alongside Eddy & Bridget Edwards of Riddims Marketing who traveled from South Florida to attend the celebratory ‘Jamaicans In Business’

Chris Barrett of Caribbean American Assoc. of Lake County enjoys reading his copy of the ‘Jamaicans In Business’ Magazine

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Around the Caribbean page brought to you by Caribbean Airlines The warmth of the Caribbean St. Lucia Association’s 4th Anniversary

“The St. Lucia Association of Central Florida celebrated its 4th anniversary on Saturday, November 17, 2012. The event was attended by members of the organization as well as some welcomed guests. St. Lucian author Loverly Sheridan attended and spoke briefly on her journey as a

writer. Also in attendance was the St. Lucian Consul General Kent Hippolyte, who always has inspiring words for all. Proceeds of the night’s event goes to the Ciceron Secondary School in St. Lucia who are in dire needs of basic school supplies. Happy Holidays to all!”

Barbados Anniversary

The coalition for the Barbados Association hosted their Independence Gala to celebrate 46 years of Independence. Barbadians across Central Florida celebrated at the Rosen Hotel. In attendance were Collin Mayers - Consul General of Barbados and Maxine McLean - Minister of Foreign Affairs.

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Fifth Annual Downtown Miami Riverwalk Festival and Boat Parade features Jamaican Folk Festival undreds of festival-goers enjoyed, the Downtown Miami Riverwalk Festival and Boat Parade, Downtown Miami, Brickell on November 10, 2012.

The opening ceremony featured Randy Corinthian on sax Soliel Rowe singing the national anthem. City was represented

by LT. I. Carroll of the Fire Dept and Officer Fundora of the

Ladies of Sierra Norwood Calvary Church Youth Group Jamaica), Jamaican Carnival Band, Sons of Mystro and Randy Corinthian. Staff of Jungle Island strolled the Riverwalk with a friendly, photogenic Macaw. In the Rum cake competition, four judges named winners including: Aymer Caswell for Vegan Rum Cake, Jackie Douglas for dark Rum Cake, Jean Lindo for Light Rum Cake.

Drumming Finger Youth Group police Dept. The event was produced by Mr. David Brown of Lumana Global Corp. in collaboration with the presenting sponsor, the Jamaican Tourist Board, and numerous other sponsors including Sandals, Jerk Machine and Ocean Bank, in Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of Jamaica and the Jamaican Consulate in Miami. Dignitaries in attendance include Jamaican Consul General, Sandra Grant Griffiths, and Miss Universe Jamaica- Miss Chantal Zaky who came from Jamaica to attend the event.

Funds were raised for this year’s featured non-profit: Sierra Norwood Calvary Baptist’s Church Youth Group. The Boat parade with watercraft from local government agencies along with the Coast Guard Auxillary took place after the opening ceremony on the beautiful Miami River.

The Parade of Pageantry included Miss Universe Jamaica, Miss Jamaica Florida Pageant, Florida Miss Miami Tropic, Miss Miami-Dade- Broward Carnival Queen, Miss Runway Florida Competition Free Characateurs by Kyle Kolebrook of MLK Art Center. Over 75 Nice Give-a ways and Raffle Prizes from Macys, WLRN, Lost and Found Saloon, Electric Avenue and many more.

Authentic Jamaican Folk Music by Drumming Fingers, Sierra Norwood Calvary Baptist Church Youth Group, Tallawah Mento Band, Soliel Rowe, Nugent “Bunny” Wince Hewett ( came from

Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce Members were on hand for the Grand Opening of Island Fuzion Restaurant. Island Fuzion restaurant is at 1575 Maguire Road Ocoee, FL. 34761.

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Jamaican patois Bible released Di Gud Nyuuz bout Jiizas Advocates view the translation as an empowering move that will affirm the indigenous tongue as a distinct language.

— Continued from page 1 —

The development provides vindication for English teacher distinct language in Jamaica.

Faith Linton, who was greeted with astonishment and opposition when she first proposed translating the Bible into Patois expert Hubert Devonish, a linguist who is coordinator of Jamaica’s patois tongue in the late 1950s. the Jamaican Language Unit at the University of the West Indies, sees the Bible translation as a big “There was shock at the mere sugstep toward getting the state to evengestion,” said Linton, now an octotually embrace the creole language. genarian and a longstanding board member of the Bible Society of the “We’ve now produced a major body West Indies. “People were deeply of literature in the language, whatever ashamed of their mother tongue. It people may think about it one way or was always associated with illiteracy the other. And that is part of the proand social deprivation.” cess of convincing people that this thing is a serious language with a stanThe opposition has diminished somedard writing system,” Devonish said. what in the intervening years, but patois in the pulpit remains a highly Reverend Courtney Stewart, general controversial issue. secretary of the regional Bible society, said there is a widespread conviction that Scripture is best understood in a Critics fear it will dilute Scripture and person’s spoken tongue. He predicts further erode the weak grasp that many poor Jamaicans are said to many Jamaicans will be inspired to have on Standard English. hear and read the translation.

Advocates, on the other hand, view it as a bold, empower- “It’s extremely powerful for people to hear Scripture in their ing move that will finally affirm the indigenous tongue as a — Continued on page 27 —

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JCC Inaugural Event Benefits Persons with Disabilities in Jamaica!!

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he Jamaican Cultural Connection (JCC), a Social Organization in Orlando, Florida, founded by President Claudette Bailey in 2010, held its first Annual Awards Presentation Dinner on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at the beautiful Eastmonte Civic Center, Altamonte Springs, Florida. Proceeds from this event will go to benefit persons with disabilities in Jamaica.

Guest speaker Pam RodneyWhite, President of the Kiwanis Club of Constant Spring, Kingston Jamaica, highlighted the plight of persons with disabilities and the role of Kiwanis International and in particular, her own club, is playing to help this group of individuals in the Jamaican community.

to train and transition their lives into ultimately becoming meaningful and productive members of society.

To help fulfill its charitable mission, vision and objectives, JCC is pleased to align itself with the Kiwanis Club to offer two tuition scholarships to two deserving students to attend the Abilities Foundation. In addition, one of JCC’s business members, Caribbean Frozen Foods, an Orlando based company that produces and markets Heart Smart Jamaican style patties, has also opted to duplicate the philanthropic efforts of JCC by offering two matching corporate scholarships of its own.

Other highlights of the evening’s festivities included dancing to the music of D.J. Charlie Brown; reading of Jamaican Poetry by Marsha Wilson; love songs presentations by Sony Wong and 15 years old rising star sensation Jada and gospel songs

by Pauline Joy.

Ms. Rodney-White first thanked the good folks at Caribbean Airlines for stepping up to the plate and sponsoring her trip, then pointed out to the audience that most of these students are from very poor families who cannot afford the costs JCC Certificates of Appreciaof tuition, books and transtion were presented to the portation necessary to attend Hampton Inn (Altamonte schools. During her tenure as Left to right - CLaudette Bailey (JCC President), Pam Rodney-White Springs), Sandy Isaacs (Break President, the Kiwanis Club of (President, Kiwanis Club, Constant Spring, Dave Lewin (JCC Treasurer) Away Moments), Courtney Constant Spring will offer Vittel Smart (President, Caribbean Frozen Foods) Smith, Sophia Campbell and scholarships to trainees at one particular institution, The Abilities Foundation – a voca- Mark Smiley (Taste of Jamaica Restaurant). tional school in Kingston - which caters to young people and adults with disabilities. Some of these students were born blind, For further information about JCC: 321-213-9173 or visit their deaf and with Down’s Syndrome. This institution is designed website@ www.JCCNOW.ORG

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To go home or not — Continued from page 3 —

Then there is that student loan: larger than a house, slower than a car. It will devour half the average EC salary. So, the best risktaking years are spent paying off a mountain of old debt. Soon there will be a vehicle loan and the inevitable mortgage. By then, it is too late to transition from bill payer to investor. All that state of the art expertise, lost to kin and country.

So the decision to leave or stay is hardly rocket science - not with economic growth dwindling, investment approaching zero, and employment under siege at home. The future becomes that place where the graduate can reasonably expect to prosper on individual merit, in a system that cares little about who he is, or where he started, or how he voted in the last election.

impotent, unable to satisfy even the basic aspirations of ordinary citizens.

So if young graduates don’t turn for home, don’t be surprised.

They too feel the need to jump free of the failing system. Unable to point to a single thing that works convincingly well, they make the only rational choice available.

The same logic drives away investors, foreign and domestic.

As economic circumstances level out across the global marketplace, the factory floor is moving even further from its virtual boardroom. To be effective, first-world executives need little more than a smart phone and a bank card.

Of course, there is still love of country: that need to be rooted to a few square miles of planet earth. All very nice, but that won’t pay the bills. Besides, these grads know how elusive higher education can be. They remember what their parents lived through.

Consequently, quality of life issues - not geography - will increasingly decide where progressive businesses locate. They too need security, education, health care, infrastructure, quality services and good governance. Where St. Lucia ranks in that scheme of things will also determine whether or not our own Even for retirees, who also need good health care, personal army of tech-savvy, knowledge-laden new-age entrepreneurs security and a sense of order, back-home is no longer the ideal ever return to our shores. place to retire. The tug of patrimony has given way to practical considerations about their quality of life. Without a range The bottom lines are not much different: what works for our of wholesome activities to occupy their days, the undertow of people also works for likeminded others. In the meantime, the emotion which once dragged them back from England and islands are great to visit, but fewer and fewer people actually North America is dissipating. need to live here.

The emotional tug does not work on their offspring either; those Changing that outlook means a shift of focus, in public policy second and third generations, full of first-world knowledge and and actual follow-through. A more progressive approach to fitechnology. All they feel - if they visit - is acute nancing higher edudisappointment that so little has changed cation is critical. Resince their parents migrated to a better life. moving disincentives To them, basic systems of governance remain to domestic investinexplicably archaic and obtuse: their ment will certainly metropole has moved along while ours has help. But the huge slipped back. challenge is creating viable opportunity: To foresee the future, one need only ask the new economic space average St. Lucian - secondary schooled, thirty something, rather than low-wage employment for its own obvious sake. mother of three – if she has any idea where the country is headed under this or any other administration. Ask her about Both the country and its people need to become magnets for the tourism product; what it will look like in five years. Ask her home-grown talent as well as foreign capital. To do that, St. about new jobs in e-commerce. Ask her about environmental Lucia needs something that no amount of foreign aid can ever change or green energies. Ask her where she thinks her school- buy: more open and enlightened government. That is the one leaving son will likely find a job. Then ask her if she wants a thing the people must manufacture for themselves. ticket to Obamaland.

As the recent US elections demonstrate, many rank and file votHell, ask the average minister about renewables, emerging tech- ers are prepared to forego immediate benefits to secure a more nologies, new economic space, alternative agriculture, global viable future. Any party which is bankrupt of ideas, energy and trends in education, digital media, social entrepreneurship... new ways of resolving economic challenges, will be summarily or how to energize a shrinking private sector. It’s not stupidity; dismissed, even if the alternative is not much better. it’s just that our systems have not evolved and now require radical re-engineering.

If local elections prove anything, it is that citizens will no longer tolerate inefficient, corrupt and self-serving government. The Simply put: our economic base is not adequately prepared for rationing of economic benefits by secret ballot needs to end. the future. Most Caribbean economies are languishing because The alternative, which serves even myopic politicians, is a functhe economic fundamentals are sagging and the old ways are tional, well regulated market system built on competitiveness painfully obsolete. At this stage cosmetic surgery simply will and merit. not do.

It is also an excellent platform for re-election; one that would What the region needs is more like a triple bypass operation to excite an unimpressed electorate and draw deserved attention remove the detritus of decades of complacency. Unless this hap- from that new generation of global citizens we so desperately pens soon, not even our own moribund citizenry will take this need in our midst. Hopefully younger and wiser, they just might country seriously. And that lack of faith – now manifesting as a have the energy to drag this place, kicking and screaming, from haemorrhage of brain power – will be the fatal stoke. the fringes of anarchy into the civility of a new century.

“St. Lucia needs more open and enlightened government” —Adrian Augier

Already, there are signs of a muted frenzy bubbling to the surface of everyday existence: that dark energy which turns people on each other at the first scent of blood. It makes a bus full of travellers curse a policeman for sanctioning their reckless driver. It makes a young man stab his best friend over some electronic trinket.

It makes you think you’re not a victim of a crime taking place next door. It makes a politician kill a project offering a hundred jobs, because the idea came from someone on the other side. It makes the ministry official messing with your life, chronically unavailable to answer phone calls. It makes governments

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If our current crop of leaders have any sense at all, they would chart that course, rev up the economic engine, and get the hell out of the way.

Adrian Augier is a development economist and St. Lucia’s 2010 Entrepreneur of the Year. He is an award winning poet and producer and an ANSA Caribbean Laureate of Arts and Letters. In October 2012, he received an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies in recognition of his contribution to regional development and culture. For more information on this writer and his work visit adrianaugier.blogspot.com

Caribbean American Domestic Violence Awareness (CADVA) Makes Bold Move For 2013

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aribbean American Domestic Violence Awareness (CADVA), is shifting its attention to “Prevention and Safety” in domestic violence situations. CADVA has done significant work in building the platform for sensitization and creating a public awareness campaign since 2010 with the original message of Break the Silence, Say No To Violence. Since then, their message continued with awareness, educational and interactive sessions using visual arts, community events, skits and as recently as August this year, the first youth conference under the theme: ‘International Youth Conference against the Contagion of Violence 2012’. Many groups have now taken up the mantle, and are leading the way in this regard. CADVA feels it has successfully brought awareness and education as part of their initial launching phase of their plan in 2010.

and the Save Abee Foundation, they were able to do toy drives in Florida and New York and had the community come out to bring unwrapped toys for the needy. December 8th Orlando hosted the 2nd toy drive at Island Fusion in Ocoee with the drive kick off on December 1st at Sybil’s Bakery in Ft Lauderdale. The final drive will be at Singh’s Roti Shop in Richmond Hills, NY on December 15th.

CADVA continues to explore and research other areas to assist our community in combating domestic violence. They have created “a smart plan within a safety plan” on how to practice prevention and safeguarding oneself from getting physically harmed.

This plan is now considered to be Phase II of several phases yet to be released. It will be introduced to our communities As an even greater wrap up for the year, in 2013.

CADVA was able to obtain authorization to attend the Miss Universe pageant to CADVA continues to expand in the Caribbean globe with be held in Las Vegas at the Planet Hollyprospects in the works for other Caribbean countries, includ- wood Hotel. Ruqayyah Boyer is Miss ing Trinidad, where the second International Youth Confer- Guyana Universe and her platform is doence is scheduled to be held. As the end of 2012 approaches, mestic violence representing CADVA and CADVA formerly announced its partnership with Radio the rest of Guyana. Radio Guyana InterGuyana International (www.radioguyana.fm) to spread their national will be at the event with live inglobal message. terviews and broadcasts during this event.

Ruqayyah Boyer, Miss Universe Guyana 2012

In addition, CADVA released its partnership with Rikki Jai. These CADVA encourages parents, social workers, community leadpartnerships with artists, radio, media and countries facilitate ers and educators to attend their events to hear the words, wisthe message of using Many Voices on One Cause. dom, vision and hope for our future. This is a continuing conversation and a long journey to effect change with the hope of CADVA will wrap up its final event for 2012 with Adelphi Uni- re-engineering our communities to a violence free environment. versity in Long Island, New York early December as part of the university’s continuing education development using visual CADVA is a US based Non-Profit Organization focusing on adarts. CADVA’s series of paintings; Reflections, Faces of Domes- vocacy against Domestic Violence by grass roots community tic Violence will be on display. efforts, partnering and involvement. Learn more about CADVA at www.cadva.org. For live internet radio broadcast, log into CADVA continues to venture out in territories, carving the www.radioguyana.fm to listen to Radio Guyana International, organization to fit our Caribbean Culture while combating bringing our Caribbean Community together. For more infordomestic violence. Along with Radio Guyana International mation send an email to www.help@cadva.org.

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By Dr. Denise Y. Mose, Feature Writer

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012 is leaving us and 2013 is just around the corner.

Regardless of Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter; here are 10 classic looks all enhanced by my favorite thing...accessories. Men pay attention, a few of these things apply to you too! Check out my list that will make 2013 your best fashion year yet!

A Wide Brimmed Hat A wide-brimmed hat is both stylish and practical in keeping the elements at bay. A felt hat for winter will keep your head warm and the snow out of your face, while a straw hat for summer prevent sunburn and provides instant shade. Perfect for male and female!

Dark Sunglasses Sunglasses help keep the sun out of your eyes and can immediately increase your “cool” quotient. Find frames that work with your face shape, and go cheap if you like variety, tend to lose them, or have small kids at home who can’t resist playing with your stuff. Again, male and female tips here!

your foot sweat and your shoes damp and smelly. So don’t do it. Use trouser socks with pants and jeans to wick away foot moisture, polish your look, and extend the life of your shoes. The ONLY time you don’t need socks is with sandals. Men especially!

A Leather Handbag A dark, well-constructed leather bag in a simple style can take you to most day functions three seasons a year. If you opt for a color that goes with most of your wardrobe (Cappucino, Onyx, Chocolate), you can invest a lot, use it a lot, and get your money’s worth by the time you have to replace. This also applies to cooler climates. Nothing says status like grabbing your Starbucks with a leather backpack over your shoulder.

Straw Handbag or Tote A flat-bottom straw handbag or tote in a simple style will look fresh and appropriate with most of your summer-time wardrobe including – quite possibly – your business wear. Avoid cutesy things like beaded animals or sea creatures if you use it for work and want to be taken seriously.

A Silk Scarf A large, square silk scarf with a beautiful pattern can last for years and enjoy endless uses. Fold it various ways and use it as a headband, wind protection for your hair, a splash of color around your neck, wrist, or handbag, or even as a belt. While scarves go in and out of popularity, they’re never out of style.

Evening Bag Guys....I hear you, silk is classy...no matter who wears it!

Evening is a time for dressing up and being elegant, so put on your heels and leave your big daytime bag at home.

Gloves Once upon a time, hand touching was considered too intimate Evening clutches need to be large enough to carry credit between strangers, so women wore gloves of various lengths cards, money, lipstick, and your keys, and can have a short and styles throughout the day and evening to prevent inap- chain handle that can be tucked in or left out. If you invest propriate touch. Today, we wear gloves mostly for warmth, but in one dark one and one light (or metallic) one, they should they have much more use than that: they prevent blisters in see you through years of use. I have a beautiful pearl bag sports, protect hands when gardening, and look elegant with my mother carried in the ’60?s that I still use a few times a evening attire. Wear them and accept the compliments that year. Chic is timeless, people! are sure to come.

Well, there it is! Accessories are the deal-breaker! Here is my advice to help you: one wardrobe at a time.

A 1” Leather Belt Belts, like scarves, go in and out of style, but a dark, leather belt is a classic that will last you for years with proper care. Denise Y. Mose, Ph.D is the owner/creator of Simply D Perfume, Wear it with jeans, dresses, skirts, and shorts to fill those belt Beauty Skin Care Line and Daniel Cologne for Men. She is also the loops and finish the ensemble. Also, belts cinch the waist...you host of her own talk show, Urban America Today (www.myjbnonline.net). Having authored her signature book, Life look thinner and still rock the wardrobe! at 433, and writing for several magazines, she is an authority on education, business, beauty/fashion, career coaching and etiquette.

Thigh-High Stockings Women have worn hosiery for a thousand years to keep legs warm, and in the last century, to make legs look good with Her new book, The Guilt-Free Guide to Fashion, is currently on bookshorter hems. Wear thigh high stockings to add polish and keep shelves across the nation!! The American Image Consultant Assoyou cool in summer, comfortable during pregnancy, and for- ciation often seeks her advice on wardrobe and fashion seminars. ever sexy to your man.

She can be reached through her Agent Monique Mason at 407-4565624. You may visit her online at www.denisemose.com and Trouser Socks Wearing closed-toe shoes without socks or hosiery will make www.danielformen.net.

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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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Shabana Nadia Khublal, final leading lady of 2012

in the same office, we are so busy and focused on our own tasks at hand that most days we just see each other for lunch and quick meetings. I believe that the success of our businesses are due to the fact that we do work together and put both of our minds together to come up with great ideas, and bounce other ideas off of each other, in order to ensure that we are doing what is best for the business. At home, we focus on our 5 year old daughter Aaliyah and spend a lot of family time together watching movies (I think we know every word of every Disney movie), laughing and enjoying the limited time that we do have together on a Shabana Nadia Khublal is a Cordaily basis.

Q: How does motherhood enhance porate Attorney and entrepreneur. your life and career?

I recently caught up with Nadia A: I can honestly say that if I way past midnight when the real work begins. The honey-do list, were not a mother, I would be the house chores, the tickler to rea serious work-a-holic! Motherhood helps me to balance my turn phone calls and emails, sendwork and home lives. I love to ing out holiday cards, etc. all the hear my daughter laugh, things that makes the house a play and tell me how her EX‘happy home.

HAUSTING day at school was!

As for my career, being a I asked her some key questions Naresh and Nadia Khubla, Owners of Soiree Event mother definitely encourages about her life and career. Ladies Center with their daughter Aaliyah me to work hard and prepare and gentlemen, I share with you Shabana Nadia Khublal as Caribbean American Passport’s for my daughter’s future. Also, as a working mother, my daughter sees that it is important to work hard final leading lady of 2012. and act responsibly.

Q: You are a Corporate Attorney, how did you decide to go into Q: What would you say to the woman wanting to start her business? this area as a career choice?

A: I always had a fascination for the law, and loved to A: I would tell all women that want to start their own businesses that it takes a lot of hard work and sacridebate as a child (some called it arguing, LOL).

Q: What was life like for you as a child? What did you want to fice, like anything else. What you put in is what you will get out of your business. Women are now more be growing up?

A: I was fortunate enough to live in a privileged house- commonly in executive level positions and this shows hold with both parents and an older sister and that we definitely have the same potential that any younger brother. Like many Caribbean households, man has. I encourage these women to push on and education was most important. As a child growing become successful. The potential of a woman is limitup, I didn’t always appreciate the strict household less and I look forward to seeing more women owned and the focus on education, especially as a teenager, businesses in the near future. but I definitely appreciate it now! Growing up, I wanted to be an Author – I was a huge fan of reading Q: What are you most looking forward to in 2013? and writing.

A: 2013 is definitely going to be a promising year. In Q: You recently made a career and lifestyle change, why is that? 2013, I am looking forward to continued success, good A: Although I have been an entrepreneur for many health and happiness. I am setting my goals high for years, I definitely made a career change. My hus- 2013, and I know that with hard work and dedicaband and I recently acquired what is now known as tion, 2013 will be the best year yet.

Soirée Event & Conference Center. As this was a large investment for us, I decided to put the legal field on You can connect with this leading lady at the following handles: the back burner and spend some time building our Nadia Khublal new business.

Q: Your husband is your life and business partner, what is it P: 855-476-4733 • F: 407-730-3508 like working and living together?

A: Early in the project, we came to the realization that www.soiréeorlando.com / Facebook: Facebook.com/SoiréeOrlando Twitwith our combined efforts, we could make a power- ter: @SoiréeOrlando house team. We decided that in order to be most impactful, both Naresh (husband) and I would focus Web: Girlwhatdoyoubringtothetable.com /Facebook: Girl What Do on our individual areas of expertise. Although we are You Bring to the Table here are times in our lives when we look for love and it’s nowhere to be found; we reach for joy and there is no one around, but we still keep holding on because we know that if we press forward and stay the course, we will obtain both love and joy. The same holds true for our professional goals and careers, if we work hard we will be rewarded by our diligence. As I was contemplating on how to bring my readers a holiday story, I was unsettled. No one loves Christmas more than me but I felt that I would leave the feel good story to Hallmark and present my readers with the gift of introduction to this leading lady and mega woman known as Nadia, who makes us all proud in her representation as a mother, wife and business owner.

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WOKB 1680 The Heart Is your marketing and Soul of The hitting the mark?

Community and WLAA 1600 “Que Buena”

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s your marketing strategy, you sitting on the closest bench throwing bird seed into the wind? Hoping that the birds find your bird seed, because it is the best quality, well priced and you are of course the nicest person throwing bird seed out ama Communications LLC is the force behind it all and to the birds. since their inception they have believed that the community and its people must have a voice and have pro- I recently read an article about a marketing guru, who devided a place where the voices of the people could be heard! Rama clared that he could land a handful of darts into the bull’s eye Communications is a of a dartboard in one try. Of course everyone was increduminority owned and lous, so they dared him to try. He took the darts, aimed, then operated business ran up to the dart board and jammed the tips into the bull’sand has done busieye of the dart board. After the laughter had died down, the ness as WOKB and speaker said, “This is how you need to do your marketing!”

WLAA for over 17 years. They are leadThis is imperative for any economic climate, and even more so ers in their Market in a recession. In a recession it forces you to ensure that every Place and in the AM Radio Industry, in their Genre of Music, Talk marketing dollar you spend is an investment, not a risky toss Radio, Community happenings and Religious programming. of the dart. How can you ensure that your marketing hits its

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WOKB 1680 has been in the Black Gospel/Christian Market for over 54 years and is a 10k watt AM Radio station with coverage that reaches across Central Florida. They are home to National Syndicated Radio programs such as “The Yolanda Adams Morning Show”,” TD Jakes Moments” and “The Donnie McCurklin” show. On Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday they air Caribbean programming with “Lady D” Lady D has successfully met the Caribbean audience of Central Florida for more than 17 years. She provides Caribbean News, Events, and Music and has a vast audience. Saturday is known for it’s Caribbean programming with Hosts: Pastor Morris, Back to Basics, Jammin Radio, Jr. B and much more.

WLAA 1600 AM is the sister station of WOKB 1680 and is the Mexican Regional Station located at 50 S Clarke Rd Orlando, Fl. WLAA 1600 AM leads as #1 in the Regional Mexican Stations in Orlando. The station features a mixture of Mexican music, talk radio, community information and National Mexican news.

On Sundays 1600am airs West Indian and Caribbean music with Hosts: Charlie Hourie and Samdeo Ragoonandan who have both been a staple in the Indian Community for over 20 years.

1600 AM is expanding the Sunday programming and are soliciting new clientele to create a Caribbean Sunday program.

The Sunday program would provide a voice for the West Indian and Caribbean Community in Orlando that do not have the opportunity or place to connect with their community.

Caribbean American Passport Newspaper is coordinating the 3pm-7pm segment on Sunday with a spirited mixture of news and music.

mark each and every time? It starts with knowing your customer, then fine-tuning your marketing so that it hits the mark.

Take the time to find the park with the most birds, and when you throw your birdseed out, you’ll actually have competition for your product.

In the example of the bull’s eye the speaker got close enough so that the target was big enough for him not to miss. How can you apply this in your marketing? Have you clearly identified your bull’s-eye? You see, targeted marketing is fine, but there are outer rings on a target. The bull’s eye represents those customers that want and need what you have to sell them. It also represents the customers that you want to deal with. If you just identify your target in broad terms, you are only looking at the outer rings.

For example, “outer ring” targeting would include such descriptions as: age range, gender, education level, and region.

This is a start, but not the bull’s-eye. To get into the inner rings, you need to get much more descriptive: What kind of houses do your targets live in? Where do they work? How many children? What do they do for entertainment?

Now move even closer to the center: Where do your targets hang out? Where and how do they get their news? Do they shop on-line or do they like to go to a store? What challenges do they face? Who is the decision maker when it comes to purchasing your product or service?

Ultimately, the bull’s-eye will be a list of individual names.

With all of the information above, you can now make excellent decisions on how to market to them. You still need to measure and test to see what works, and having this level of information will give you the ability to do so. In fact, you will be able to invest more dollars per prospect and spend less overall in your marketing.

You can listen online to WOKB 1680 AM at www.wokbradio.com GGR Marketing & PR provides you with marketing solutions to hit your Bull’s Eye and to WLAA 1600AM at www.wlaaradio.com For more information about programming and advertisement. Caribbean Community Events - From small events to thousands Contact Shanti Persaud-Hernandez at: 407 293-9652 or email at festivals that are as diverse as the Caribbean Community — Continued on page 25 — her at info@ramacomm.com.

ast c d a o r B Live ide s t u O m o r f o the Studi

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Studio T Music & ours, Food, G All Afteriveaways noon

50 S. Clark Road, Ocoee, FL Admission: Free For more information contact: 407-427-1800. Display tables available.

24

BRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUM FOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVOCATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKING TOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. HERE’S A LETTER THAT ASKED: SHOULD I TELL MY FRIEND HIS GIRL USED TO BE A GUY? Dear Bryan and Gary, My best friend of 25 years says he is madly in love with the new woman in his life. Since his wife died unexpectedly 15years ago, I must say this is the happiest I’ve ever seen him. According to him, THIS IS THE ONE. It is a relationship like those that you read about in story books. They respect each other. They care about each other’s feelings. They always look forward to seeing each other and want to spend time together, even if it’s just sitting and reading the paper.

And most importantly, they make each other VERY VERY HAPPY. Which is why I don’t know what to do, because I was trying to surprise them with a gift for Christmas when I found some information that revealed that Tracy(My Best Friend’s Girl) used to be Trevor.

Apparently, 10 years ago Tracy finished the transition from Trevor and has been living as a woman since then. Now I love my friend but I find myself torn between what I feel my duties are as a friend and my responsibility to his HAPPINESS. I know he is extremely HAPPY, but Do I tell him that Tracy use to be Trevor? Or, Do I leave it alone and let him be HAPPY? What would you do?

Signed....A Friend!!!!

GARY: Ha Ha Ha!!!! C’mon man, how is it possible that this guy doesn’t already know? Maybe he knows but don’t think that anybody else would find out.

BRYAN: This actually isn’t funny man, because that could happen to the best of us.

GARY: Maybe to you, but not to me. I would have to know. I’m Gary making sure that I inspect the PRODUCT and do my research before TAKING THAT PLUNGE. BRYAN: I hear ya’ man, but if she had a very good surgeon, you could do all the research you want to do and you still wouldn’t know. Anyway, that’s beside the point. What would you do in this situation? If this was your friend, would you tell him?

GARY: Of course I would tell him. I couldn’t let my friend continue down this path and not tell him. Wouldn’t you tell him?

BRYAN: Actually, I wouldn’t Gary. If my friend was as HAPPY and in LOVE as they described in the letter, I don’t think I would tell him.

GARY: Really?

BRYAN: Yeah!!

GARY: So you’re telling me that if this was you, you wouldn’t want me to tell you?

BRYAN: LOL, I just knew you would bring this back to me.

First of all it’s not me, but if it was…No I wouldn’t want you to tell me.

GARY: HA HA HA….LOL, Man you’re crazy. Not me. “Yuh try mek sure seh yuh tell ME.”I don’t care about happiness.

If you found out that MY GIRL used to be a GUY….YOU BETTER TELL ME. BRYAN: LOL, LOL, LOL….Gary in this life, aren’t we all striving for HAPPINESS? Do you know how many couples out there that are in relationships and are not HAPPY? What would they give to be happy with the person they are with? I just don’t think anybody should try to mess up anybody’s happiness.

GARY: Look man, “HAPPINESS SCHNAPINESS…TELL ME.” How you say that you are my best friend and don’t tell me?

If I found out that you knew and didn’t tell me, that would DEFINITELY END our friendship.

BRYAN: I hear you buddy, but let me just say that being my friend doesn’t mean that you have the right to be all up in my business. It doesn’t mean that you have the right to mess up my happiness.

GARY: Dude, I can’t agree with you on this one.

BRYAN: Gary, if I knew your wife beBryan fore you and I found out that you were cheating on her, would you want me to tell her? Would you want me to mess up your marriage?

GARY: NO, but that’s not the same.

BRYAN: Of course it’s the same. Wouldn’t you want me to be a GOOD FRIEND and tell her?

GARY: O.K. Mr. Ivey, point well taken. However, I think in this situation she should tell her friend that the woman he is madly in love with used to be a man.

BRYAN: I just think that more harm could come from telling him, but that’s just my opinion. WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF CONFRONTED WITH THIS SITUATION??

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 1680 AM OR LISTEN TO US LIVE ON WWW.WOKBRADIO.COM

Hitting the mark?

— Continued from page 24 —

segmented by country, heritage and locations across Florida.

Direct Mail - Use our mailing lists that are segmented by Event and by Country to reach the customers that fit the demographic you’re targeting. We can identify Caribbean dense areas for your direct mail pieces to target.

Email Blasts - We update our email database monthly with new names. We currently reach 10k Caribbean people across Florida. Our email list includes decision makers within Caribbean Companies and Organizations.

Media Buys - Are you looking for the Caribbean Hispanic market, Guyanese, Trinidadians or Jamaicans in specific areas? We know how to reach them through newspaper and radio buys.

Whether you want to drive sales, increase brand awareness, gather data, sample product or recruit potential clients, we will find an effective way to achieve your specific marketing objectives and reach your target market.

25

Caribbean Perspectives

R

eaders can look forward in January to a new column that focuses in depth on the Caribbean region.

Caribbean Perspectives, which focuses on economic, trade, tourism and global issues that affect the Caribbean, is written by business consultant, trainer and writer, Sandra Ann Baptiste, who holds the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) Canadian designation.

Sandra Ann is a former journalist, with over 20 years’ exSandra Ann Baptiste perience covering the Caribbean and global events, including for the BBC. She is in constant contacts with decision-makers in the public and private sector across the region and internationally.

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As a World Bank Consultant, she established and was the first head of the Guyana Office for Investment and was also a consultant with the Guyana Manufacturers Association, Caribbean Export Development Agency in Barbados and the West-Indian Commission, set up by CARICOM Heads of Government in the early 1990’s to review the regional integration movement and chart the way forward.

Sandra Ann holds a Master’s Degree with distinction in International Journalism, a Post Graduate Diploma in International Relations and Diplomas in Business Management and International Trade.

She conducts seminars in management, marketing and leadership. She recently served as Event Management Consultant for Guyana’s national trade show GuyExpo.

Save the Date for a seminar on “Successful Exhibiting, Feb. 13th, 2013. For more information contact 407-427-1800.

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Danielle’s Family and the Hope for Danielle Dream Team wishes you and yours a wonderful holiday and Christmas Season. We thank you for your prayers which are evident. Although Danielle is medically determined to be in a coma, she is showing signs of strength and improvement daily. At current Danielle is privately recovering but again we are encouraged by her progression. Your support is appreciated and as you wish the best for our family, we wish the best for you and yours. Merry Christmas

26

Martin Luther King III visits Orlando, speaks at Rollins College

M

artin Luther King III, visited Orlando and spoke at Rollins College. His message was that ”I look at the legacy as a blessing.”

King, 55, is the eldest son of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. In a wide-ranging discussion that drew several hundred people to the college’s Knowles Memorial Chapel in Winter Park, King said persuading people to resolve conflicts without violence is as much a struggle today as it was when his father was spreading that message during the 1960s.

Pictured on right: Jonathan Sebastien Blount, Martin Luther King III, Elan Blount

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BIBLE, Continued from page 18 —

own language, the language they speak and think in. It goes straight to their hearts and people say they are able to visualize it in a way they’ve never experienced before,” Stewart said.

Some religious leaders and other critics nevertheless characterize Jamaican patois as a rowdy, ever-changing vernacular that is fine in informal settings but inappropriate in a place of worship.

“Patois is not potent enough to be able to carry the meaning of the Gospel effectively. It just does not have the capacity to properly reflect the word of God,” said Bishop Alvin Bailey, leader of the evangelical Holiness Christian Church in Portmore.

The New Testament translation was recently released in England, home to a large Jamaican diaspora.

In the British town of Northampton, the Reverend Dennis Hines of the New Testament Church of God said the patois Bible has been received well, especially in prisons where he works as a chaplain and inmates of Jamaican heritage are clamouring for a copy.

“Just to know that there was a Bible in their native tongue has made people feel really proud and excited,” said Hines, a Jamaican who moved to England as a boy.

The translation is a stickier subject in Jamaica, where activists are pushing for patois to be granted official status alongside English and used in classrooms.

Clive Forrester, who teaches the Jamaican tongue at Canada’s

York University, said the biggest obstacle to launching a patois Bible on the island has always been a psychosocial one, not a linguistic one.

“The language can handle any concept or idea in the New Testament. It’s the average Jamaican speaker who has a hard time accepting Jamaican Creole in written contexts and especially one as formal as the Bible,” Forrester said.

The Bible has already been translated into hundreds of obscure languages and dialects, among them the Ga language of Ghana, the Mi’kmaq spoken mostly by Indians in eastern Canada, and Gullah, which is largely spoken by African-Americans in isolated coastal areas of South Carolina and Georgia.

Now, the advocates of Jamaican patois are thrilled to see their time finally arrive, particularly with the island marking its 50th anniversary of independence.

With Christmas in the air, the time may be right to reflect on the depiction of the angel Gabriel’s visit to the Virgin Mary that foretold the birth of Jesus.

The New King James Bible’s version of Luke reads, “And having come in, the angel said to her, ‘Rejoice, highly favoured one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women.”’

The patois version reads: “Di ienjel go tu Mieri an se tu ar se, ‘Mieri, mi av nyuuz we a go mek yu wel api. Gad riili riili bles yu an im a waak wid yu aal di taim.”

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