CAPNewsDecember2011 by caribbeanamericanpassport

FREE

NEWS MAGAZINE

Tis the Season Golden Krust opens new location in Orlando for Giving

re you one of the many Americans wondering how much tax you’ll pay or what you will get back as a refund next year? This December “Tis the Season for Giving,” You can only deduct charitable gifts made by the end of the year on this year’s return. So if you know that next year you’ll be paying taxes at tax time - why not give some away to a great charity or cause this Christmas Season. The Caribbean Community has great non-profit organisations - many of which are featured in this issue of the paper. They rely on volunteers, who do an amazing job of keeping our culture alive here in Central Florida. If you can support their activities then reach out to talk to them about working with them in next year to fund an activity. There are many Caribbean Organisations that would benefit from a space to host meetings or events, furniture, storage space, sponsorship of their events, donations to scholarship funds and so much more. I challenge you to become a Patron of the Caribbean Community in Central Florida. There are many activities coming up next year that could benefit from your goodwill, some include:

Continued on page 26

See story on page 22

Barbados Prime Minister Featured Speaker at the Barbados Independence Ball "Says it's time to reverse the Brain Drain"

reundel Stuart, the 7th Prime Minister of Barbados was the featured speaker at the Barbados Independence Anniversary Ball held in Orlando. His message to the attend ees was in large part about the "brain drain" that Barbados and other Caribbean islands have endured of their highly skilled and educated labor. In an attempt to reverse the trend and capitalize on brain power, the Prime Minister said that Barbados is seeking to

Members of Barbados Independence Ball planning committee with Prime Minister Stuart

Continued on page 14

L I F E S T Y L E

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

Season’s Greetings and Best Wishes for 2012!

hristmas is here, the best time of year in my mind. I have loved the Christmas season and all it stood for since I was a young child. Growing up in Guyana we always had to wait for a decent time which was usually somewhere in the middle of December before we could put up Christmas decorations...but here in America we get to decorate as soon as Thanksgiving hits, what a wonderful life. But, can Christmas here really compare to Christmas in Guyana, absolutely not. In Guyana, at the beginning of November, we worked really hard to ensure that all the work was done by the first week in December - or else you knew you weren’t getting anything done before New Year’s day. The atmosphere was just easy and slow, everyone understood that it was Christmas time so you weren’t going to get anything major done. Christmas time was just spent connecting with friends and family and once it got to the week before Christmas day, noth-

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 Christmas Season 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.

ing happened. In the office we just sat around and talked about nothing and e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g. Christmas is my favorite time of the year, it’s when miss Guyana the most and want to go home. This year, though, Christmas is coming to me in Orlando, my family is on their way, the garlic pork is soaking, the pepperpot is made and once this paper done...I just liming till New Years, having a Caribbean styled Christmas in Orlando. On behalf of Sam and I and the amazing people that work with me to bring you all of the stuff we do - email blasts of upcoming events, newspaper and events - Merry Christmas and if you love us buy a subscription for somebody this Christmas and don’t stress us out about nothing till Jan 2nd no January 3rd or 4th.

Season’s Greetings from The Board of Directors of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida Please join us January 24th for our Annual General Meeting & Elections You can join or pay your membership dues online at www.caccfl.com Membership is valid for 1 year. Join now! We’re getting ready to print the Caribbean Resource Directory 2012 Edition, would you like to be included?

Name ______________________________________ Date ___________ St. Address __________________________________________________ State _____ Zip ____________ Phone ___________________________ Email _______________________________________________________ Signature ____________________________________________________

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

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

15/11-Thursday 6pm-10pm Adonal Foyle’s Kerosene Lamp Foundation’s 3rd Annual Holiday Reception VAIN (Rooftop) 22 S. Magnolia Ave. Downtown Orlando Tickets $10 (includes one drink, hors d’oeuvres) Business attire 21 & up ONLY

12/16/11-Friday 6:30pm-10:00pm CACCF Christmas Party Eastside Bistro Orlando Fashion Square Mall 3461 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando 32803 FULL BUFFET DINNER & Open Bar from 7pm-9pm $25 per person R.S.V.P. Kash 954-284-KASH (5274) Email: caccforlando@gmail.com

12/16/11-Friday 7pm-9pm ADDRESSING CHILDHOOD OBESITY New Hope Baptist Church 2855 Lake Helen Osteen Rd. Deltona 32738 Keynote Speaker: Chaplain Barry Black Admission: FREE

12/17/11-Saturday Lyma Dunbar in The Annual Caribbean Jazz Fusion Guest performers: Chet Samuel & Jabori Clay The Well Built Museum 511 W. South St. Orlando 32805 Advanced Tickets: $15 @ the door $20 Call: 321-263-9939

12/18/11-Sunday 12noon-4pm ADDRESSING CHILDHOOD OBESITY Orlando Marriott Lake Mary LUNCHEON (donation) 1501 International Parkway, Lake Mary 32746. Keynote Speaker: Chaplain Barry Black

12/18/11-Sunday 5pm Jamaican Cultural Connection Presents Gospel Sonfest with Special Guest Speaker Bishop Orville Smith (known as Manadus) Hampton Inn Hotel, 151 Douglas Ave, Altamonte Springs, FL. 32714 Admission: $20.00 For more information: Claudette Bailey - 321-746-9187

12/24/11 - Saturday 9:00pm - 6:00am Island Riddim Radio in Association with Indian Horizon Present the 1st Annual Christmas Party featuring the 506 Crew live in concert alongside Orlando’s best DJs, Black Knight and DJ Phaze from the Vibrant Sound The Horizon Center 2338 E. SR.436, Apopka,FL.32703 (The corner of SR 436 and Piedmont Wekiva Rd.) Admission:$10.00 in advance and $15.00 @ the door. For more information call Sista Sharon @ (407) 687-3312, Desmond “ Big-D”Brown (407) 467-9213 or Hari Singh (407) 889-8872. Food also available on sale. www.islandriddimradio.com

12/17/11-Saturday 7-11pm sharp 12/29/11 -Thursday 6:30pm-8:30pm Caribbean Bar Association of Central Florida Pre-New Year’s Eve Party Meet the FAB 5 BAND MEMBERS up Close & Personal Tropical Holiday Party Sorocis Women’s Club 502 E. Livingston St. Orlando 32803 $20 PER PERSON WITH A TOY AT THE DOOR $25 PER PERSON WITHOUT TOY AT THE DOOR

12/17/11 - Saturday 2pm -5:30pm Horizon Center Presents their 1st Annual Children’s Christmas Party with Puppet Show Santa and Gifts $20.00 Admission for Parent & up to 3 kids 2338 E. SR 436 Apopka, Fl. 32703 Snacks and Beverages FREE Call 407 - 889-8872 Part Proceeds in Aid of the Caribbean Cultural Center in Apopka.

12/17/11-Saturday 9pm-3am Xmas Spectacular-SIXTH EDITION Soiree Event & Conference Center 6394 Silver Star Rd. Orlando 32818 Tickets are $10.00 in Advance at local restaurants or call Vid at 917-709-1116 Ladies wear RED :Guys WHITE

12/17/11 - Saturday 10pm-3am 1UNIT PRESENTS THE 3RD ANNUAL MASQUERADERS BALL A.K.A PART 3 OF DA STONEFACE’S BIRTHDAY EVENT WEEKEND. Music by Reconn Music, Faisty Squad, D.J. Stamina Club Limelite. Ladies get in Free until 11:30pm. Ladies with masks get in free until 12. Ladies drink free until midnight.

Caribbean Sunshine Bakery, Winter Garden 12/30/11-Friday 9pm-2am FAB 5 Along with DJ CHARLIE BROWN Orlando Airport Marriott 7499 Augusta National Drive Orlando 32822 Admission: $45 Dress Code: Casually Elegant

12/30/11-Friday From 7pm BACK TO THE BASICS PARTY!!! Seaqual Banquet Hall 8421 South Orange Blossom Trail Orlando 32809 Dance contest for: RUM SHOP, TASSA, & REGGAE With two age groups 39 and under & 40 and over For questions call DJ AL 352-408-4599

12/31/11-Saturday 8pm - 2am New Year’s Eve Black Tie Evening in support of Rick Singh, Candidate for Orange County Property Appraiser Rio Pinar Country Club, 8600 El Prado Ave. Orlando, FL 32835 Tickets: $100.00/$175.00 VIP

12/31/11 - Saturday 8pm - 4am The Orlando Caribbean Domino Association’s New Year’s Eve Social Timehri Banquet Hall ( The Venue) All Inclusive Annual Social - Dinner, Drinks, Breakfast $40.00 Contact Timehri Restaurant for Tickets 407-291-2047

12/17/11-Saturday 9am-2pm ADDRESSING CHILDHOOD OBESITY

12/31/11-Saturday 9pm-3am Night of Elegance-New Years Eve Gala Soiree Event & Conference Center

Orlando Marriott Lake Mary, 1501 International Parkway Lake Mary 32746. Keynote Speaker: Chaplain Barry Black Forest Lake Academy Children’s Choir Admission: FREE

6394 Silver Star Rd. Orlando 32818 Dress Code: Stylish *Black & White Semi-Formal Attire Black &White is encouraged but not mandatory Early Advanced tickets $15 (limited quantity available) Regular Ticket price $20...More at the door

Air Jamaica, offering more travel options to Florida with service to Miami December 2011

riday 09 December 2011, Air Jamaica, operated by Car-ibbean Airlines, makes its return to Miami International. The four times weekly service, will operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The introduction of this new service, comes ideally for the Christmas peak season, offering customers more travel options into and out of North America. Caribbean Airlines CEO (Ag) Mr. Robert Corbie states, “The resumption of direct service to Miami by our Air Jamaica brand solidifies our commitment to offering our customers better connectivity to North America, providing more options to and from Florida from Jamaica. As the only regional carrier to offer non-stop services from Jamaica to three of Florida’s major cities, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and now Miami, we are a fundamental resource in Caribbean aviation. We believe in the added value of our product and continue to provide a reliable, flexible and dependable operation. Our added value package entitles our passengers to frequent flyer miles, two free pieces of checked baggage up to 50 lbs, inflight entertainment and complimentary meals.” The non-stop Miami service begins its operations with return flights out of Jamaica on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 09 December 2011 till 07 January 2012. From 09 January 2012 - 30 January 2012, the return services will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and daily services will be introduced from 01 February 2012. These flights are currently open for sale. Customers may contact the Reservations Call Centre at 1-800-523-5585/ 1-800523-2475 (toll free) or visit www. airjamaica.com or www.caribbeanairlines.com for bookings.

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

Young Caribbean Entrepreneur brings Stepping to Schools See story on page 13

The Antigua and Barbuda Association of Central Florida celebrated 30 years of Independence. For more information about the Association go to www.abacfl.org. www.aba-cfl.org.

St. Lucia Association of Central Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3rd Anniversary Dinner & Dance

opularly known as SLACF, this association was formed in 2008. Their mission is to help St. Lucians in the United States and St. Lucia. If you would like to join them for their final meeting of the year, it will be held Saturday, December 17, 2011 from 6:00pm to 10:00pm at the Sunquest Hall, 1044 Plaza Dr.Kissimmee, FL 34743. The Consul General will address the membership. Please contact Agnes at (407) 346-3406 or Lydia at (407) 520-7205 or for more information or go to www.slacf.net.

Western Union New Leadership in promotes “I Pledge” Jamaican Diaspora of Program at Jerk Festival South Florida

he Western Union Company, a leader in global payments, and GraceKennedy and Company Ltd., promoted their joint “I PLEDGE TOO” Program to benefit primary school education in Jamaica during the recent 10th Annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, touted “the biggest Caribbean food festival in the US.” Reaching the festival’s 18,000 patrons, the event helped raise awareness about I PLEDGE TOO and its goals of helping thousands of school-age children in the Caribbean country.

r. Susan Davis, program professor at Nova University in Davie, was elected as the representative for the Jamaican Diaspora Southern United States at a Town Hall Meeting, titled “Next Steps in Diaspora Engagement” held on Saturday, November 5 at the Holy Family Episcopal Church in Miami Gardens. She succeeds Attorney Marlon Hill, who served in that position for nearly five years.

“All of us at Western Union are fully committed to programs that support children, especially those who need help the most,” stated -Sean Mason, Western Union Country Director. “I PLEDGE TOO gives young Jamaican kids the chance at a brighter future by giving them access to educational technology tools such as computers.” Launched six years ago, I PLEDGE TOO aims to help reach the goal of computerizing 40 schools across Jamaica by 2013. To attain this goal, GraceKennedy and The Western Union Foundation will contribute up to $100,000 to I PLEDGE TOO, which is an acronym for I Promise to Lend Encouragement to Develop Growth in Education. Individual donations are currently being accepted via text message (text WUJA to 52000 to donate $10), the internet (Western Union.com/ipledge), or in-person at participating Western Union(r) Agent locations Mention the account: I Pledge Too, City: Colorado to donate any amount. Deadline for donations via text messaging is May 31, 2012 but fortunately, Agent locations can still accept donations until December 31, 2012.

Dr. Susan Davis

Over 100 members of the Jamaican Diaspora attended the meeting which provided updates on the Jamaican Diaspora initiatives generally and related to the Jamaican community in the Southern United States, including South Florida, and heard Jamaican Consul General Sandra GrantGriffiths present plans for Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of independence next year. However, the main agenda item was the nomination and election of a new leader for the organization.

The gathering rallied to nominate and elect Dr. Davis, and former Miramar Commissioner George Pedlar and South Florida attorney, Pamela Gordon as alternates, if Dr. Davis is For further information about Western Union and I PLEDGE unable to serve for any reason. TOO, visit WesternUnion.com/ipledge. Dr. Davis has a doctoral degree with specialization in organiJerk Festival patron making her pledge with Western Union’s I zational leadership and conflict resolution, and a Masters in PLEDGE program. HR Management, from Nova Southeastern University. She is a trained State of Florida Certified Mediator, and serves on various organizational and community boards and committees.

Do a Short Sale - Get $20,000 Cash Back!

Election Watch By Sir Ronald Sanders Guyana. In other parts of the Caribbean, the state-owned me-

eneral elections in St Lucia and Guyana on November 28 have raised serious questions about the financing of campaigns and the unfair use of state resources by governing political parties to gain an advantage over their opponents. In St Lucia, it is alleged that a significant portion of the United Workers Party (UWP) campaign funds came from Taiwan. The UWP was the ruling party at the time of the elections and the then leader of the Opposition and leader of the St Lucia Labour Party (SLP), Kenny Anthony, had engaged in a public row with the Taiwanese Ambassador over his blatant interference in the electoral politics of the island. In Guyana, it is claimed that the ruling Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) outspent its three rivals by a sizeable margin in the elections campaign. International observers from the Commonwealth and the Organisation of American States (OAS) commented unfavourably on campaign financing in both countries. The

dia is increasingly controlled by ruling parties for party political propaganda and to deny opposition parties a voice. But, again, it is noteworthy that despite government control of the state media, the opposition parties in Guyana gave the ruling party a robust fight. It is a warning to all ruling political parties that restricting democracy by muzzling state-owned media will do them more harm than good in the judgement of the electorate. In St Lucia, the SLP has formed the government and Kenny Anthony is Prime Minister while the UWP and its leader, Stephenson King have been scattered in the wind of change ushered in by a dissatisfied electorate. In Guyana, the new President, Donald Ramotar - elected on a plurality of the vote (as the Constitution provides) not an overall majority - has formed a minority government made up of PPP/C members only. This has created a great deal of bitterness among the supporters of the main opposition party, the APNU which is a combination primarily of the Peoples National Congress founded by the late President, Forbes Burnham, and the Working Peoples Alliance founded by the late historian Walter Rodney. Whether this new arrangement will work in Guyana is left to be seen. Certainly, the combined opposition parties have an opportunity to bargain with the minority PPP/C government over the areas in which money will be spent and how. They are also in a good position to insist on parliamentary oversight committees that will closely examine the operations of key ministries. And, in the final analysis, they could vote against the Government’s Budget and bring government to a halt, thus forcing a new election.

High spending - while it may have captured a small number of voters - is no longer a decisive weapon. OAS Observer Mission in St Lucia pointedly called for legislation, including strengthening the Integrity Commission and auditing and reporting mechanisms, and it noted that “Saint Lucians have no access to information regarding campaign financing by the parties”. In Guyana, a similar observation was made by the Commonwealth Observer Group who said “the requirement for declarations of election expenses by parties after the election is not adhered to and the law in this regard is largely symbolic”.

Despite APNU street protests in the immediate aftermath of the Guyana elections - one of which involved Police shooting pellets at participants - APNU leader, David Granger, said on December 6 that the election results have cleared the way for the politics of ‘inclusionary democracy’. He also stated that the APNU will “pursue our legislative programme to ensure

Big spending on advertising, musical extravaganzas and give-aways, and abuse of state resources by ruling parties will not buy an electorate that is dissatisfied with performance.

Local observer also raised concerns that both the UWP in St Lucia and the PPP/C in Guyana abused their positions in government to exploit state that laws are enacted to provide jobs for our youth; to provide resources to bolster their positions during the period leading to relief from the burden of taxation; to alleviate the suffering of our people; to expose and root out corruption and to eliminate the elections. discrimination and marginalisation”. What is significant is that despite the fact that the ruling parties spent more on their campaigns and manipulated state resources In looking at the issue of money in elections in its memberto boost their prospects, the opposition parties did extremely well. states generally, the OAS released a report on December 6 titled, In St Lucia, the SLP defeated the UWP overwhelmingly to form ‘Politics, Money and Power: a Dilemma for Democracy’. The the government. In Guyana, the opposition parties, A Partner- report recommends “the creation of broader national regulaship for National Unity (APNU) with 40.8 per cent of the votes tions concerning the use of funding, the disclosure of political cast and the Alliance for Change (AFC) with 10.3 per cent en- parties and campaigns donors and the creation of a fair and joyed enough support to deny the PPP/C the overall majority in transparent competition in the campaigns”. But, getting these the National Assembly that it had since 1992. Consequently, recommendations implemented requires determination by all having secured 48.7 per cent of the voter turn-out, the PPP/C, political parties as well as concerted lobbying and action by although it won the Presidency on a plurality of the vote, has civil society in every country. had to form a minority government. Of the 65 member National Assembly, the PPP/C has 32 seats and the combined op- Nonetheless, the failure of the two ruling parties in St Lucia and Guyana to win the elections overwhelmingly indicates that position has 33 with 27 held by APNU and 6 by the AFC. high spending - while it may have captured a small number of The Commonwealth Observer Mission in Guyana also criticised voters - is no longer a decisive weapon. Big spending on adverthe bias displayed by the state-owned media for the ruling party. tising, musical extravaganzas and give-aways, and abuse of It said the Media Monitoring Unit analysis indicated “overt state resources by ruling parties will not buy an electorate that bias in state-owned media in favour of the government and is dissatisfied with performance. ruling party” and added “state-owned media has a higher moral responsibility to serve the interests of all citizens, par- The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Sir ticularly as in some parts of the country it is the only media Ronald Sanders. Sir Ronald Sanders is a Consultant and former available to citizens”. This phenomenon is not unique to Caribbean diplomat.

Election Watch

Jamaica’s general elections set for December 29th By Horace Helps

INGSTON, Dec 4 (Reuters) - Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who took office less than two months ago, announced on Sunday that general elections will be held on Dec. 29.

Kenny Anthony leads SLP to victory in St. Lucia

he St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) came storming back into government, five years after it was swept aside by the United Workers Party (UWP). SLP Leader Dr. Kenny Anthony told St. Lucians that the “days ahead will be hard, it will be difficult” and that the right message would be sent by not declaring a public holiday as has been the tradition over the years to celebrate the victory.

Holness, who was just sworn in on Oct. 23 when former Prime Minister Bruce Golding stepped down as Dr. Kenny Anthony PM Andrew Holness premier, announced the election on a visit to the south-central town of Mandeville where he spoke before a crowd of supporters of the “I am afraid there will be no holiday (Tuesday), we will get to work immediately. There is a hard job ahead of all of us and it ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). is important for the sake of this country that we take the right “We are ready for progress, ready for development and ready step from now,” he added. for a positive future,” Holness said. Preliminary results show that the SLP secured a majority of the Holness, 39 and Jamaica’s youngest prime minister ever, was 17 seats, and could be victorious in as many as 11 constituenappointed by JLP lawmakers to succeed Golding when he de- cies given that some of the results were being contested by both cided to step down after four years in office amid mounting parties. This is the ninth election since the island attained its criticism over economic issues and his handling of a politically political independence from Britain in 1979 and there were charged U.S. request for the extradition of a notorious Jamai- immediate calls for recounts in some constituencies, such as Gros Islet, where Montoute was defeated by newcomer Emma can gang leader. Hippolyte by 15 votes. Buffeted by the global economic crisis, Jamaica turned to the International Monetary Fund in 2010 for an $1.27 billion eco- For the first time in more than three decades, the name nomic lifeline. Future economic growth faces many challenges Compton, was not successful in the Micoud North constituincluding endemic crime and corruption, and widespread un- ency, where Dr. Gale T.C Rigobert, defeated Jeannine Compton, the daughter of the late Sir John Compton, who contested the employment and underemployment. seat which her father held for more than three decades as an Holness, who served as education minister before his appoint- independent candidate. ment as premier, was required by the Jamaican Constitution to hold elections in 2012 and he could now become the short- Anthony easily won the Vieux Fort south constituency which he has represented in Parliament for the past 15 years, brushest serving leader in the nation’s history. ing aside Karl Wilfred Daniel, while King also easily retained The opposition People’s National Party is headed by Portia his Castries North seat, moving past the challenge from Ubaldus Simpson Miller, who served briefly as Jamaica’s first female Raymond. prime minister from March 2006 to September 2007. Anthony said that he was asking supporters to “celebrate quiIn his terse announcement, Holness said formal nominations for etly whether in their homes (or), their own communities,” addthe election would be held on Dec. 12. The country’s two main ing, “let us come back to work and start the job of rebuilding our country”. parties will each field more than 60 candidates for parliament.

PPP/C wins Guyana election with parliamentary minority

resident-elect Donald Ramotar was sworn in Dec. 3rd, amid ongoing protests by opposition supporters and predictions of difficult times ahead for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), which, for the first time since its election in 1992, does not command a parliamentary majority. “I would have liked to have a majority in the parliament but the electorate has spoken and we have to work with what we have,” the president-elect said in a recent statement. The PPP/C secured its fifth consecutive win in the November 28 general and regional elections after it claimed 32 of the 65 seats in the National Assembly. The opposition coalition group, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) won 26 seats, while the Alliance for Change (AFC) got seven.

you and your country,” he said. Persaud stated that the possibility of cross-party collaboration is the sole responsibility of the president-elect. Ramotar has since met with his challengers, David Granger of the APNU and Khemraj Ramjattan of the AFC. However, no specific information was provided about what was discussed. A government release merely stated that the meeting was convened to discuss “issues of interest to the people of Guyana”, and that “the Presidential Candidates agreed that there will be follow-up meetings directly and through their representatives.”

APNU supporters took to the streets to protest the election results and are planning to continue their demonstrations. The APNU has alleged there were ballot tampering and other “serious discrepancies” in the computation of the PPP/C campaign spokesperson Robert President-elect Donald Ramotar results. The coalition said it has written Persaud described the results, which saw the PPP/C amass 48.6 per cent of the votes, as disappoint- to Chief Elections Officer Gocool Boodhoo reiterating that the ing, while surmising that this was caused by a level of compla- final declaration should result from an “all party verification” cency among supporters - most of whom are of East Indian of the Statements of Poll where “serious discrepancies are found descent. “The results of the general election 2011, while victo- to exist.” It also said it has “asked its supporters to remain calm rious, are indeed a disappointment but they are also a timely though vigilant and avoid responding to the various provocareminder to all and sundry of what indifference almost cost tive statements and actions being perpetrated at this time.”

Politics, St. Peter and Satan W hile walking down the street one day a US senator is eryone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the eltragically hit by a truck and dies. His soul arrives in evator rises.... heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance. The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven “Welcome to heaven,” says St. Peter. “Now before you settle where St. Peter is waiting for him. “Now it’s time to visit Heaven.” in, it seems there is a bit of a problem. We seldom see a high So, 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented official around these parts, you see, so we’re not sure what to souls, moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp, singing do with you.” hymns, reading the Scriptures (especially St Luke’s Gospel), and listening to poetry (Shakespeare’s mid-Summer Night’s Dream “No problem, just let me in,” says the man. etc). They have a good time and, before he realizes it, “Well, I’d like to, but I have orders from “The the 24 hours have gone by, and St. Peter returns. Big Boss”. “Well, then, you’ve spent a day in What we’ll do is have you spend one day in hell and another in heaven. Now it’s Hell and one day in Heaven. Then you can time for you to choose your eternity.” choose where to spend eternity.” “Really, The senator reflects for a minute, then I’ve made up my mind. I want to be in he answers: “Well, I would never have said Heaven,” says the senator. “I’m sorry, it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but we have our rules.” but I think I would be better off in hell with my mates.” So St. Peter escorts him to the elAnd with that, St. Peter escorts evator and he goes down, down, down to hell. him to the elevator and he goes Now the doors of the elevator open and he’s in down, down, down to Hell. The doors the middle of a barren land covered with open and he finds himself in the middle waste and foul-smelling garbage. He of a green golf course. In the distance is a sees all his friends, dressed in rags, clubhouse and standing in front of it are all picking up the trash and putting it in his friends and other politicians who had black bags as more trash falls from worked with him. Everyone is very happy and in above. The devil comes over to him and evening dress.. They run to greet him, shake his puts his arm around his shoulder. hand, and reminisce about all the good times they had, while they were getting rich at the expense of the people. They “I don’t understand,” stammers the senator. “Yesterday I play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate loband champagne. Also present is the devil himself, who re- ster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. ally is a very friendly guy. They all have a good time danc- Now there’s just a wasteland full of smelly garbage and my friends ing and telling jokes. In actual fact they are having such a look miserable. What’s happened?” The devil looks at him, smiles fantastic time that before he realizes it, it is time to go. Ev- and says, “Yesterday we were campaigning . . . Today you voted.

Now Open - Horizon Cultural Center to provide a Caribbean Cultural Center in Orlando

he Horizon Cultural Center recently opened in Apopka to Florida they became involved in Diwali and Phagwah prowith an aim of offering a place for residents and visitors grams and assisted in promoting religion and the arts in Cento gain exposure to Caribbean culture, develop their tal- tral Florida. The Center intends to work with the Caribbean ents, and expand their knowlAmerican Chamber of Comedge of the arts. They are commerce of Florida to create edumitted to providing activities cational business workshops for the community that will for the business community. showcase the rich diversity of The intention is to create a the Caribbean Culture Caribbean Cultural Center throughout the year. The centhat serves the needs of all Carter is intended to be a space ibbean people in all facets of where the Caribbean Commutheir lives. nity young and old can gather to relax and enjoy each other’s For programming, rentals, company through senior proclasses and more information grams, youth initiatives, call (407) 889-8872. The Horimentoring, dance, yoga, tai zon Center is on the corner of chi and much more. Plans inSR 436 and Piedmont Wekiva clude space for a Caribbean Rd at 2338 E. SR.436, Apopka, Caribbean Cultural Center opens in Apopka library and resource center FL.32703. and programs in the visual and performing arts. Books, Furniture and other supplies are still needed at this time to This center is the brainchild of Hari and Seeta Singh of Lotus get the center running at full capacity. Please support the upFinancial Services who are both advocates of Indo Caribbean coming fundraisers put on by the center or volunteer to assist Arts and Culture in the Community. As soon as they migrated with a program.

fro age m the men An 1701 P thony Sm t & Staf ark Ce nter D ith Law P. f of r Orla ndo, F A. L 3283 5 Man

fro age m the men t& 6100 N a St r a Old W inter G ine’s Bake aff of r arden Rd, Or y lando , FL 32 835 Man

COMPETITIVE PRICING ON:

Accredited & Licensed ST # 38091

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Airfare Domestic and International—to and from Any Destination! Deals on Trinidad, Guyana, Jamaica, Haiti & More! Cruises (All Major Cruise Lines: Disney, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, NCL & More!) Vacation Packages Which Include (Air, Hotel & Rental Car) All Inclusive Trips Business Travel Planning Last Minute Travel Mention Honeymoons This Ad for Religious Tours & Packages Special Family Reunions Group Tours Rates! Activities & Shore Excursions And ALL Your Travel Needs!

HEALTH WATCH MARIE JACQUELINE DERIGGS

n January 2005, Jackie, as she is known to her friends and family, experienced numbness in her right hip. At the time, she attributed this condition to sitting too long in meetings at her job as a nurse analyst at the Florida Hospital. But by the next day, the numbness had spread to her arm, which led to her having an MRI performed that revealed a tumor on the upper part of her spine. The diagnosis was called ASTROCYTOMA, a rare form of cancer which more commonly affects children. About six months later, in July, her health had deteriorated to the point of her not being able to care for herself. Hospice workers began managing her case, and her mother moved in to help in her round -the-clock care. Her prognosis seemed bleak, and although hopeful, many were unsure about her recovery. Early this year, another setback led to paralysis and financial crisis, creating a need for moral and financial support for her continued care. Jackie has since made steady improvement but still requires constant care and assistance. Her friends and family wish to thank all who rallied to her side during this especially difficult time with prayers, encouragement and inquiry regarding her wellbeing. Anyone wishing to assist financially or in any other way, may contact her sister Carlene DeRiggs at cardythe@gmail.com.

Young Caribbean Entrepreneur brings Stepping to Schools Continued from page 3

am’s office parties have always been interesting, but it has always stepped up a notch when Adam Barnes and his younger sister got the dancing started. It has always been a pleasure to watch them as they passed through high school then college and it was always a special pleasure when they were available to attend the office Christmas parties to get the dancing started. So it was no surprise when Adam told us about a new program he was working on - Step-inSchool. Recently Step-inSchool hosted the 2011 Break the Stage Central Florida Invitational Step Show at Barnett Park. This show pitted the best middle and high school teams against each other from the Central Florida area. BreakTheStage is a National Youth Step Competition designed to reward youth participants for their achievements in ‘Step’ as well as academically.

preparation and performance development via the competitive art form, of Greek Letter Style Stepping! Step-in-School’s curriculum does not only teach Step, their curriculum is made up of two other components being Collegiate Prep and Professional Development. To the participants who exemplify the high ideals of hard work and commitment in this area, Step-in-School awards scholarship funding! Step-in-School has currently grown to include a multitude of academic institutions and after school programs and currently manages Step Talent from multiple youth enrichment organizations and AD agencies. As a Community Based organization, Step-inSchool has been servicing over 1,000 participants in New York, Florida and Georgia. Stepin-School was recently recognized as the first organization in history to bring ‘Greek Letter Style Stepping’ to Broadway!

BreakTheStage is not meant to be just a competition, it is an outlet For more information about the progam contact allowing youth opportunities to earn scholarships, receive college adam@breakdastage.org!

Barbados Prime Minister visits Orlando Continued from page 1 attract the skills and expertise of their nationals overseas to enhance the country’s socio-economic development. Prime Minister Freundel Stuart recently enticed Rhodes Scholar Marston Gibson to return home to accept the post of Chief Justice. The 57-year-old former president of the Council of Barbados Organizations in New York, had emigrated to the United States in 1987, and was recently sworn into office. “It’s my view that Barbados has to be redefined,” Stuart said in his keynote address “When we think of Barbados, we should think not only of those people on the island, but also of our nationals in the Diaspora, and they should now be fully inte-

grated into what it is we are attempting to do in our country. That means we are now elevating the concept of remittances beyond money to social remittances. We no longer want only what you have earned, but also what you have learned, and in looking at filling posts back home and the planning of the development of Barbados. We are looking beyond our population to draw on those nationals who live overseas. " The celebratory dinner and dance was held by the Coalition for the Barbados Association of Central Florida and included Barbadians, members of Caribbean Organizations, Sheriff Demmings, Former Orlando Police Chief Val Demmings and Reggie McGill.

Barbados Prime Minister visits Orlando, continued

Man

f age rom the men t& Caribb Staf

ean Fr o

zen Fo

ods

f of

fro age m the me H 409 W eadstart B nt & St a est Ch o urch S oks and C ff of treet, Orland raf ts o, FL 3 2801 Man

Kings of Soca Show at Majestic Event Center Majestic Event Center is a new venue on John Young Parkway with approximately 22,000 sq. feet of space for entertaining.

Jamaica Farewell Play with Debra Ehrhardt Played at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center This play has been optioned by Tom Hanks & Rita Wilson to be made into a movie.

Haiti Health & Rehabilitation fundraising brunch H

aiti Health & Rehabilitation held an elegant fundraising brunch under the Patronage of the Consulat Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Haiti â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;a Orlando, Laurent Prosper. Proceeds from the event will go towards building their medical clinic due to open in October of 2012. Mr. Harris Rosen, CEO of the Rosen Hotels was the Guest of Honor and spoke of his upcoming work in Haiti, his love of Haiti and the people of Haiti to a captive audience. He was presented with a special award by Founder of Haiti Health & Rehabilitation, Odette Constant, for the amazing work he has done in Haiti and for the contributions of the Rosen Hotels to the clinic to date. There was a special Exhibition of Haitian Art from the Zora Neale Foundation with pieces that were done by Artists in Haiti . Funds raised by the sale of those art pieces were sent to the

Artists in Haiti. Dessca Design, the interior architects designing the clinic were on hand to showcase their design. Event sponsors, Life Worth Living Pharmacy, La Madonne Registry, Best Offense Pest Control and booth exhibitors indicated their pleasure in working together and definitely plan to do more events together throughout the year. Haiti Health & Rehabilitation is a non- profit organization dedicated to helping the people of Haiti. They are working on opening a medical clinic in October 2012. If you would like more information about the work being done in Haiti or to get involved please visit www.haitihealthrehab.org.

President Obama’s Super Committee Fails To Implement Plan By Roger Caldwell

Many believe at the center of this dispute is a conservative activist Grover Norquist, and author of a popular GOP camresident Obama and con- paign pledge never to raise taxes. There are many Republigressional leaders traded cans across the country and in Congress, who have taken the blame on who is at fault for pledge and refuse to raise taxes. He is also the head of a connot reaching a deficit reduction servative group, Americans for Tax Reform, and many Repubdeal. Many political pundits and ex- licans refuse to disagree with this organization. perts believed that the super committee from its very conception was There are 95% of Republicans in the Senate and House, who doomed to fail. They didn’t think have signed the pledge. This pledge is a sacred covenant for that the two parties are able to work virtually anyone wishing to run as a Republican, and it is a together in this Congress, and reach clearinghouse for conservative ideas. a compromise and agreement. President Obama is placing the blame on the Republicans, The American citizen feels that there is no leadership from ei- because they rejected a balanced approach to deficit reducther party, and the economy is in a precarious situation. As tion that included tax increases on the wealthy. “Despite broad the two parties draw a line in the sand, we can expect more agreement that exists for such an approach, there are still fighting and more finger pointing. In 2012, the fight will be too many Republicans in Congress that have refused to listen to the voices of reason over job creation, and compromise that healthcare, immigraare coming from outside tion, taxes, militar y of Washington,” said spending, housing marPresident Obama. ket, debt, and the deficit.

As the two parties draw a line in the sand, we can expect more fighting and more finger pointing.

It appears the more the two parties fight, both sides think they will win, and benefit politically and substantively. They would rather fight and look foolish to the world, and the American people. The nature of democracy is to compromise, but in our Congress in 2011, the nature of the legislators is to remain stubborn. The co-chairs of the bipartisan special joint committee said in a statement that, “after months of hard work and intense deliberations, we have come to the conclusion today that it will not be possible to make any bipartisan agreement available to the public before the committee’s deadline.”

All of the legislators on both sides of the fence are disgusted with the super committee, because many thought it had a task that was achievable. Republican Senator Bob Corker of Tennessee said, “It is nothing short of an embarrassment, an absolute national disgrace, and failure of leadership that we cannot agree on even a paltry $1.2 trillion in deficit reductions.”

Since the super committee did not reach an agreement, there will be automatic cuts of $1.2 trillion over the next year. They are heavily focused toward defense and there is no clear planning on how they will be implemented. There is no planning This was a very difficult task but I was speculating that this on the expiration on the Bush tax cuts, which will raise rates committee would be successful. This super committee was on all Americans in 2013. charged with the responsibility to find $1.2 trillion in spending reductions and deficit reductions measures. There were 6 mem- The two parties can continue to fight and not agree on anybers from each party and together they would agree on cuts thing, and blame each other. But logically it would make more sense to compromise and get our fiscal house in order. and negotiate a plan to present to the public and Congress.

ONE HOUR MASSAGE ONLY $19.00 Limited Offer

Sultana Law Seminar

re you overwhelmed by mounting bills or debt? Are you looking for a way to lower your mortgage payment? Join Sultana Law for an informative seminar that dispels the myths and lets you know what options are available to you. Topics that will be covered include: loan modifications, foreclosure, short sales & bankruptcy. Thursday, January 26, 2012 from 5:30pm-8pm Sultana Law Office 115 Maitland Avenue Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 Free, but RSVP is required

Phone: (407) 293-8890

MM 25131

Call (407) 545-2099 or e-mail Sophia@SultanaLaw.com

Guyana Karate Association President promoted to 5th Degree Black Belt

ensei Ricky Jagnarain, President of the Guyana Karate Association (GKA) was promoted to Godan (5th Degree Black Belt by the World United Karate Organization (WUKO). He is now the highest ranking WUKOGuyana member.

Sensei Jagnarain resides in Tampa, Florida and is very much active in promoting Guyana Karate in the USA and the wider Pan American area. He has been in karate for over thirty years. He is working vey hard to provide GKA local members with uniforms, protective equipment etc. Sensei Jaganarain also holds an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;referee license with the Trinidad and Tobago Karate Federation (TTKF). Another Guyanese, Nadia Rohoman also holds a TTKF referee license. He is pursuing his continental referee license and coaching training under the TTKF. His Shito-Ryu Karate teacher since 1994 is Sensei Darryl Williams. Sensei Jagnarain is proficient in both Shotokan and Shito-Ryu karate. GKA can be found on www.facebook.com/guyanakarate. His grade is officially posted in the Dan records of the WUKO .

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all of Us at Caribbean Passport!

LEADING LADIES BEHIND THE SCENES Welcome to our new column on Leading Ladies behind the Scenes. This 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 their names and their trendsetting work in our community, organization affiliation and their influence in business. Thank you for celebrating their value with us.

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

egends have been described as rare, self-proclaimed geniuses. It’s been said that they are recognizable and noncomparative. As Dr. Francois entered into the room, her aura said “that’s a legend”. Within the first two minutes of the interview, I had no doubt that I was talking to a world changer.

migrant farm workers are the most diligent and hardest working people you will meet. They have pride and they work toward the goal of a better day - thanks to Dr. Francois, that day has arrived. Dr. Francois’ view is personal not because she is Haitian, but because she is at heart a doctor who cares and is informed. She looked at the minority people that stemmed from the migrant farm workers and realized she needed to form a multicultural center to embrace everybody that is deprived and non-informed in the community. This landscape pushed the vision to what we know today as a force to be reckoned with. Her passion for quality and communication surrounding HIV/ AIDS in the community is matched by her leadership and training in fair housing and overall life sustainability including but not limited to equal opportunity employment.

Dr. Francois who came to the U.S. from Haiti, immediately saw an imbalance and inequality in the service and types of services given to people not only with HIV/AIDS but at different levels of life. To her service should be an automatic right without prejudice - to that end a humanitarian The issues that plague the HIV/AIDS community, she feels might be different to her than what the community feels - she was born. is currently working on an assessment to hear from the people Dr. Francois formed her agency in 1994 with one of her good and address the needs that are most prevalent. From her winfriends, Larry Williams. She says ‘motivation’ was number dow, BUDGET CUTS, lack of jobs and understanding of exone for forming the agency. As a medical doctor coming tended sick days, the school system, immigration, housing, from Haiti, she saw the community from the treatment side acclimation process is different with all immigrants. Yes we are a melting pot, but the ingredients only “people who are sick want to in the pot is what makes the differtake medicine but the knowledge of ence; so even the level of diversity and what is taking placing within them, inclusion is an issue. The non-profit I didn’t see”. challenge with the economy is plagued by lack of funds and manDr. Francois says the problem was the agement of the agencies they serve. gap between treatment and prevenThe core and key leadership must be tion. Coming from Haiti she readily involved in the development of the recognized the lack of infrastructure in agency; the day to day operations the medical treatment and preservamust drive the integrity in the admintion of those within the community istration so that the agency will be in who suffer from HIV/AIDS and she place to serve our people. The staff considered this a travesty. must attend to the mission and the board must be involved in what is takThe key point came in 1991 when she ing place in that agency. “When you acquired a Master’s Degree in Public write a grant what you say, you must Health, this gave her a different view deliver or we all suffer - there are too about her choice to practice medicine Dr. Francois many questions of honesty, dignity and how she would move forward. People have asked her if she misses practicing medicine and and follow through on monies received. The service we deher answer is an emphatic no! The reason she has chosen liver is the branding of the name, have respect for the funders the prevention part of medicine is cost effectiveness and there and benefactors. An assessment should be done quarterly to is more engagement. When a person is aware of the reason ensure our community does not suffer.” Dr. Francois goes on why they are experiencing various symptoms, they should record to say that the agency should reflect the community it also know why they have it and have better knowledge on serves - on her staff the employees can relate to the people how to deal and cope with the illness regardless of what the they serve, multicultural, educated, and diverse and delivering on the promises they proclaim. said illness is. Coming from Haiti to the U.S., the farm workers population is the population that influenced her a lot. The working conditions and the lack of knowledge for whatever they were feeling and how they were treated was alarming to her. She says we must remember that within the migrant farm worker population there are a lot of Caribbean, Haitian, the sugar cane, the Jamaicans, etc...however, the HIV stigma was worse on the Haitian community because of lack of information. When the label of “the Haitians are the reason we have HIV/ AIDS was on the rise,” Dr. Francois knew more than ever she had to stay the course and wear her public health hat in season and out of season because drastic education and communication needed to take place. She goes on to say - it became personal because now her people were ashamed to say they were Haitian. She has seen immigrants with no legal papers die out of fear because they felt they would be denied health and treatment or if they seek treatment, they will be deported or ostracized. It’s personal because she wants to dispel the myth. “You can seek care, immigrant or not it’s your human right”. She also mentioned that many of the

An immediate goal for Dr. Francois and her center is to establish the agency to be a monument in the community for centuries to come. Because of this she has strategic planning methods in place and they work on this plan daily - it does not sit in a drawer but on the tables of the minds and actions of all the employees. The employees love Dr. Francois and uniformly states that if they work hard, Dr. Francois works harder than all. She doesn’t sleep at the wheel ever or give unachievable goals that she herself will not first walk or work through to deliver by example. A signature example of her and the team’s effort is the Caribbean Health Summit formerly the Haitian Health Fair. This health fair is rounding its tenth year and its main cause is to liberate our community through education and HIV/AIDS awareness and preventative methods with quality service. The efforts of the agency’s Keith Gooden and the Caribbean connectors are the reasons our people are alive. During the summit there are screenings and other related testing; if there is any abnormal activity they are put on a path to wholeness and progressive health immediately.

The Golden Krust story, continued from page 1

he Golden Krust story is an enduring tale that is worth telling... It is a story of modest yet persistent pursuit of a dream; the story of family-togetherness and sacrifice, motivated by an in-nate desire to make a better life not only for themselves and their children, but also a community and then ultimately a nation.

franchise license and, Lowell Hawthorne was named “Entrepreneur of the Year” for the Tri-State area by the accounting firm Ernst & Young.

Over the last twenty-two years the company has grown by leaps and bounds. Today, the chain consists of over 120 stores located in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Golden Krust was the brain-child of Ephraim and Mavis Georgia, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts and North CaroHawthorne; founders of Hawthorne & Son’s Bakery in St. An- lina. Expanding beyond a family-owned business, twenty-odd drew, Jamaica. This industrious and enterprising family had years later, Golden Krust now employs over 1000 persons systhe respect of their neightem-wide with 50 new adbors - who had come to ditions made in the last rely on the quality and year. home-made taste of Hawthorne & Sons baked Ravi and Zorida Manoo goodies. are natives of Guyana who ate at the same East Golden Krust as we know Gunhill Rd Golden Krust. it today began in 1989 They had migrated to the when President/CEO US but like most immiLowell Hawthorne, his wife grants were always lookLorna, along with some of ing for a taste of home. his siblings and their On a visit to Orlando, spouses who migrated they saw the potential of from Jamaica, decided to the Caribbean market continue the family tradiand decided to open a restion started by Mavis & taurant. “We were confiEphraim. This visionary dent that if we chose to go group pooled their reinto the restaurant/ food sources and opened a small store located at 1381 E. GunHill Rd business, it would have to be a Golden Krust. It was our very in the Bronx. They toiled long and hard, sometimes through first business venture and we felt secure enough investing in the night, to fill the growing need for freshly made breads, buns a franchise with a proven success record and recognizable and bullas with that familiar yet distinct Jamaican taste which brand name within the Caribbean market.” is so hard to beat. Responsibilities were divided and the burden shared, as they set out to make a name for themselves in So in 2005, Ravi resigned his job as a computer technician the New York Tri-State area. and network specialist to open the first Golden Krust franchise to be located in the Central Florida region. “There was a The Golden Krust Bakery became so popular that Lowell strong need for a well established Caribbean style food conHawthorne, who had been on paternity leave at the time, re- cept in Orlando, so we decided to capitalize on that need and signed his full-time job as an accountant at the NY police de- open our Golden Krust restaurant on Colonial Drive,” said partment to devote his time and energies into growing the busi- Ravi Manoo. A few years later, Zorida resigned her job as a ness. The other founders followed suit shortly thereafter also senior drug safety analyst in the pharmaceutical industry to resigning their jobs. Lowell was appointed “leader of the pack” join her husband full time in business. Together they have by his family to steer the business on a path to success - a job worked very hard to grow their business in Orlando while he undertook with much passion, purpose and persistence. raising their two young children. The couple’s outstanding performance has earned them the elite distinction of being The store at 1381 East GunHill Rd, was a success and made named Golden Krust Franchisee of the Month back in March way for the opening of a second store in Mt. Vernon then a 2008 and Best Caribbean Restaurant in Central Florida 2010 third in Hartford, CT then a fourth, then a fifth... and so on. In by Gospel Now magazine. 1995 Forbes Magazine featured Golden Krust as one of the fastest growing minority owned businesses in the United States. In addition to owning and operating a Golden Krust franchise By 1996 the Hawthorne’s owned 17 stores throughout New York location, the Manoo’s also manage Golden Krust’s growing bakTri-State. The bakery became so successful that they were en- ery distribution network in Central Florida and have just opened couraged to create franchises. In that same year GK became their second Golden Krust franchise also located in the city of the first Caribbean-owned business in the U.S. to be granted a Orlando, on the corner of Hiawassee and Silver Star Roads.

Roberts & Roberts Property Management Services Serving Orlando & Central Florida Property Management We provide property management solutions for homes, businesses and vacation rentals. Renters! we have homes available.

Contact Sam for more details: 407-810-6435 22

Our Gift to You! Special Lower Holiday Rates on Barrels

We Have Moved!!!

Laparkan Orlando/PS Freight 1934 Silver Star Road Orlando, FL 32804 (407) 298-9887 orlando@laparkan.com

Called to Serve Memoirs of a Table Tennis Champion

at Quintyne Hildebrand is a champion international table tennis player, who, in the course of her sporting career, played for three countries, and had the distinction of representing the U.S.A. Pat was born on the island of Barbados in the eastern Caribbean , where she played and enjoyed many sporting pursuits, until she discovered table tennis and developed a passion for the sport that would last her entire life. As a young woman, Pat traveled to Canada to pursue studies in nursing. Strong-willed and athletic, she soon caught the attention of coaches and fellow players, it was not long before she was on track to becoming an outstanding national level table tennis player. When marriage and family life took her to the U.S.A. , Pat continued to play and take on new challenges, until she gained the recognition of the national selection committee and earned the opportunity to contribute to a significant event in this countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history through her sport. Pat, the mother of two grown sons, Russell and Brian, lives with her husband Robert in the Orlando area. She was nominated for the Crown of Merit Award in her native Barbados in 2003, and also nominated in 2004 for the USA Table Tennis (USATT) Hall of Fame for her contributions. Pat has played several sports, basket ball, motorcycle stunt riding, cricket, swimming etc. but chose table tennis as the sport she was dedicated to. For more information on her book email: patquint@cfl.rr.com

fro age m the me Kai 1718 N teur Tropic nt & Sta or al f

th Ma

fro age m the me Hibisc nt & Sta f u

Man

in St â&#x20AC;˘ Mist Resta f of ur Kissim mee, F ant L 3474 4

407-2 s Place 98-60 68

Happy Holidays from Life Worth Living Pharmacy 6488 Currin Drive Orlando, Fl 32835 Tel: 407-522-5685 24

f of

Excerpt from the Book “Biblical Sense” “Men, men, men!” Sheba smiled as she considered the spectacular array of men around her. With all the confidence befitting their accomplishments, they moved about like proud lions on the Serengeti. They were a family of strong, powerful men and Sheba was proud to be their beloved kin. Like a box of goodness, they came in all shades of chocolate imaginable: from the richest, darkest hues of cocoa and coffee to the spicy shades of caramel and cinnamon. ‘Wow! What a wonderful family to call my own!’ she mused as she surveyed the crowd gathered on the beach of Dupree Cay (pronounced ‘key’), they were celebrating the New Year with a family reunion. Being a close-knit family, they all built homes on the Cay. Sheba smiled as she admired her home, which stood atop four columns right in the kaleidoscopic waters of the Atlantic Ocean. She fondly referred to her home as her tree house.

CACCF welcomes new members at the orientation at the Citrus Club.

Right now, it was time to party and nothing was stopping her. With the wild abandon that is customary at Dupree fetes, she danced and feasted on exotic island cuisine until the early morning light cast its rays upon the welcoming Coast.

For upcoming events and more information on CACCF go to www.caccfl.com

Finally, exhilarated and exhausted, Sheba opened the sliding door of her tree house. Climbing into her netted brass bed, she allowed the morning breezes access to every fiber of her now e Invite you to become a Chamber Member today naked body as she melted into a deep sleep........! and take advantage of the many opportunities avail able to grow your business. A fierce wind blew. The dust rose from the earth, forming a heart, a head, a leg, a body, a human form. There he stood, • Member Discounts six-feet six-inches proud. He was born to be a king......! • Business Forums/Workshops • Business After Hours Mixers In The Biblical Sense by Cecilia Vaughn • International Trade Leads • Local Government and Community Business Leads CECILIA VAUGHN was born in the Bahamas. With the ocean as her • International trade Missions playground, her imagination flowered lavishly. Eventually, she was • Public Affairs & Legislative Forums given the opportunity to study at university where she developed her • CAHM Activities artistic gift. Putting this gift on hold, she worked as a bank clerk, • Holiday Banquet beauty consultant and teacher. After nurturing her three children to • Christmas on Steel Drums adulthood, she finally had the time to express her gift in this witty, fun and deeply moving romance novel. Her favorite quote is John 13:34 Advertising in CACCF’s Caribbean Resource Directory - 2012 “And now I give you a new Commandment: love one another!” edition 5000 copies printed; for more information contact For more information e-mail: ceciiawelcomes@yahoo.com CACCFOrlando@gmail.com

Powerline HD Productions in collaboration with Soirée Event Center Presents....

Night of Elegance | A New Year’s Eve Gala

ou’re invited to bring in the New Year in Style at the elegant & luxurious Soirée Event Center. This venue boasts upscale finishes like jaquard carpeting, crystal chandeliers, marble flooring, granite surfaces, and Italian Leather sofas (v.i.p area), two Rooms to Party and a Grand Foyer entrance to relax and socialize.

Dance, House, Contemporary Hiphop, Alternative, Chutney, Latin, & More!

Complimentary New Year’s Accessories will be given upon Entry and Complimentary Champagne & Parking for Advance Ticket Holders who choose the valet option. You must arrive by 11:30pm to take advantage of the free champagne toast. Relax & Socialize You're Sure To Appreciate The Upscale Fea- H’orderves are available for those who arrive early. tures Of Soiree Event & Conference Center.Follow the Red Carpet to the entrance and expect to be impressed with a venue Special rates are available for Caribbean American Passport fully decorated with New Year’s Ambiance. Dress Code Is Styl- Readers: $15.00 (Advance tickets purchased on or before ish Black & White Semi-Formal to Formal Attire that means Dec.10th.) So tell them you saw it in the newspaper and ask for Absolutely No Jeans, Sneakers, T-Shirts, or Caps, Black & White your discount. For more information call 407-760-4484 to find attire is encouraged but not mandatory. In keeping with the ticket outlets in your area or online tickets go to: theme of this party the semi-formal to formal portion of the www.trinijunglejuice.com/night-of-elegance. dress code will be strictly enforced. There will be an eclectic variety of music: Top 40’s, Soca, 80's, Reggae, Back in Times, Soirée Event Center: 6394 Silver Star Rd. Orlando, FL. 32818

Shebada coming back to Orlando in April with ‘Politicians’ - a new play

iamond Talent Management just brought the popular and campaign managers and journalists. Gary Walker (Chris performer Shebada back to Orlando for Double Dose “Johnny” Daley) and Sadie Chudwell (Abigail Grant) acts as and they have booked Shebada again to return to Or- these support personnel. But even they have their own story to lando on April 21st and Tampa April 22nd tell. Gary has a lot of clout when it comes for the latest play in by Stages Productions, to politics and wields his power over not "The Politicians." With elections being held just the politicians whom he controls but in Jamaica on December 29th 2011, the also Sadie. What can Sadie bring to the timing is appropriate. This time Delcita political platform with her experiences in and Shebada, two of Jamaica's hottest new journalism? Will her association with Gary actors are teaming up. The buzz has allead to her downfall or her betterment? ready begun and many fans of these two What is Gary’s role in the management of dynamic actors can’t wait for this play. the nation? Should one man have so much power over the direction of people’s lives, “The Politicians” is written by P.O. Beale their future? What is the story between and directed by Bunny Allen. It is a poGary and Sadie? litical revue that captures politics in JaAll these questions and more will be anmaica. It largely deals with political campaigning and the various happenings swered on stage in “The Politicians”. This that the public rarely if ever sees. It also play is as comedic as it is somber. It is a highlights a number of social issues that thought provoking reflection that will alaffect the society as a result of politics and low audiences to laugh at the sublime and presents politicians on a platform that make little of the consequential. It is seridepicts them as basic humans with agendas, desires, mo- ously a play that depicts Jamaicans “teking serious things tives and personal issues. mek laugh”. In “The Politicians” there are four contenders – Delcita (Andrea Wright), Shebada (Keith Ramsay), Monica Brown (StacyAnn Brissette), and Rass Iman-I (Junior Williams) who are campaigning against each other for a chance to lead the people of Jamaica to uncertain change.

As we countdown towards this play look out for Sandra Fatmi, CEO of Diamond Talent Management campaigning around town, on WLAA 1600am from 1pm-6pm, WOKB on Saturdays between 12 noon to midnight and in the monthly edition of CAP NewsMagazine. There will be many opportunities to win free tickets, gifts and prizes if you keep looking out for the camThese politicians are ably supported by their financial backers paign. For more info call Sandra Fatmi at (770)789-7004.

Tis the Season for Giving, Continued from page 1 • • • • • • •

Grenada Ball - February Guyana Ball - February Phagwah- March CAFA Fusion - April Carnival - May Indian Arrival Day -June Caribbean American Heritage Month - June

The Caribbean American Chamber is a volunteer run organization, in which membership is $100.00 for small businesses. Your membership will be valid for one year. Your membership helps to fund the printing of the Caribbean Business Resource Directory, which lists Caribbean Owned businesses and is the only comprehensive database of Caribbean businesses in print in Central Florida.

• If you claim the standard deduction amount on your tax return, your charitable gifts will do you no tax good. You must itemize expenses on Schedule A to deduct charitable donations. The good thing about donations is that, in most cases, there is no limit on how much you can deduct. • Only contributions to IRS-qualified charities are deductible. This means the group meets Uncle Sam’s requirements to be classified as a tax-exempt organization. You’ve probably heard this referred to as 501(c)(3) status, so-called because that is the section of the Internal Revenue Code that governs such groups. There are many groups in the Caribbean community that have their tax exempt status. Ask the charity to which you plan to give for information on its tax status. • Regardless of the type of gift, its amount and to which charity you donate it, get a receipt. The IRS actually demands receipts when a donation is more than $250.

Here are some tips to consider when giving: • Choose an organization, whose work you are familiar with. Don’t hesitate to ask the charity for information about its programs. • Before making online donations, determine whether the charity’s website is secure. • When considering supporting a cause-related marketing campaign, find the answers to these questions: What portion of the donation will benefit the charity? • Before donating used items make sure they are in good shape to reuse.

This year-end generosity will pay off at tax time, as long as you know and follow the Internal Revenue Service’s rules on tax deductions for donations. Remember Timing is Everything Donations must be made by the end of the tax year for which you want to claim the deduction. If you put a check dated Dec. 31 in the mail by that day, you’re OK. So are donations charged by year’s end to your credit card, even if you don’t pay the card’s bill until the next year.

SAVE THE DATE!

ANNUAL REPUBLIC FUNDRAISING BALL

February 25th, 7:00 pm-1:00 am Rosen Centre Hotel 9840 International Drive â&#x20AC;˘ Orlando, FL 32819

For More Information Contact: Andy: 407-345-4188 Victor- 407-484-5692 Sam - 407-810-6435

Tickets: $60.00 per person Formal Black Tie Event Tickets Are Available Online: www.guyanaball2012.eventbrite.com 27