Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - Jan 2025
As we close out another incredible year, wewanttotakeamomenttoexpressour heartfelt gratitude to our family, friends, and loyal readers. Your support and engagement have been the foundation of our success, and we couldn’t be more thankful for each and every one of you.
This past year has been a journey filled with shared stories, unforgettable moments, and a deep connection to the vibrant Caribbean-American community. We’ve laughed together, celebrated together, and faced challenges together. And through it all, we’ve come out stronger, more connected, and ready for whatever lies ahead.
As we step into 2025, we’re filled with hope and excitement for the new beginningsthisyearwillbring.It’satime to embrace fresh opportunities, pursue our dreams, and continue fostering the valuesoffamily,unity,andculturalpride. We look forward to continuing to serve as your trusted source for news, stories, and celebrations that matter to you.
Here’s to a year of new beginnings, fresh starts, and countless blessings. Happy New Year from all of us at Caribbean American Passport News Magazine!
With gratitude and joy, The Caribbean American Passport News MagazineTeam
40+ Years of Family & Community
For four decades, Caribbean Supercenter has been more than just a grocery store—it has been a cornerstone of the Caribbean community, helping generations stay connected to their roots through the foods and flavors of home. As they celebrate their 40th anniversary, it is time to reflect on their journey, their impact, and their commitment to servingthediaspora.
The story of Caribbean Supercenter begins with Naraine “Star” and Rosemarie Moonasar, who migrated to Marylandin1978.
While working in the multi-family housing industry in Washington, D.C., they recognized a growing need for Caribbeanproductsinthecommunity.
cont'd on page 10
Samuel J. Roberts,
Publisher/Editor
L I F E S T
Remaining Positive - Seeing the Silver Lining
Every day of our lives we wake up to a new day, new opportunities and new challenges. As we face these ‘new days’ we must find a way to maintain a positive outlook.
Life is full of ups and downs, challenges, and unexpected twists. While we can’t always control what happens, we can control how we respond to it. Choosing to remain positive and seeking the silver lining in difficult situations can not only improve mental well-being but also open doors to new opportunities and personal growth.
Perspective is everything. When we are faced with adversity, it is easy to dwell on the negative, but shifting our focus to potential benefits or lessons can help us navigate through difficulties with resilience.
Throughout my life whenever I’ve faced new challenges or even recurring challenges, I force myself to smile, look up to the heavens and say…”yah testing me again?”
One of these days I do plan to write my own life-story and I’ll try to include all the hurdles, walls, mountains, gutters, trenches, valleys, rivers and even oceans I’ve crossed along my life’s journey. Note, I’m by no-means saying that I have cleared all the hurdles, crossed all the trenches or rivers, but I do my best to try to remain positive.
The way I look at life and try to stay positive is to sometimes, simply, avoid the negatives. It might sound easy, but it works (sometimes). Here are a few things that I try to do. Envision where you want to be for your golden years, you’re retired, you’ve got grandchildren or grand-dogs (in my case), you wake up every day…what do you want to do or where do you want to be? For me by focusing on that version of my life, I can overlook the hurdles and stay the course needed to get to where you envision yourself.
In "Think and Grow Rich," Napoleon Hill emphasizes the profound impact of negative thinking on one's health and wellbeing. In Chapter 15, titled "How to Outwit the Six Ghosts of Fear," he discusses how negative thoughts can manifest as physical ailments. Hill states, "It is brought on by negative thinking and nothing but positive thought can affect a cure." He further explains that hypochondria, or imaginary disease, can cause as much damage as actual diseases, highlighting the power of the mind in influencing physical health.
I remember in May of 1993, I was involved in a serious accident, breaking both my arms, my left leg, left foot, fracturing 2 ribs, fracturing my jaw and cracking the cranium under my right eye..etc. While I’m by no means any different from anyone else what made the difference in my recovery was where my focus was at that time.
I had just graduated from university and was ready to start my career. I was on my way to take an engineering job in Jamaica and heading to the airport when this accident happened. Again, what was more important to me at the time was that the Guyana National team was planning on participating in the Caribbean and Central American Games in Puerto Rico later that year. I saw myself making that national team and representing Guyana.
The focus for me was on where I wanted to be, the journey was simply a means to the end. Even as I reflect on the journey between the accident and representing Guyana as their number 1 goalkeeper at the time, there are few things that I can remember. However, I do remember the accident and I remember the feeling of playing for Guyana with some of the greatest friends and team mates I have ever had My motto at the time was "What the mind can conceive and believe the “body” can achieve". Not knowing were I stole that motto from, but later reading Napolein Hill’s book and seeing it in black and white, made me smile and again look up at the heavens and say “Yah tested me again, I think I did it this time, but I know there will be more to come”
Trade Trek USA: Paving the Way for Caribbean Brands in the US Market
Caribbean businesses have long showcased rich cultural heritage, unique products, and exceptional talent. However, many face challenges when attempting to expand beyond local borders. Recognizing these hurdles, Asa P. Sealy, a former top executive at Carib Brewery USA, has launched Trade Trek USA—an innovative company designed to help Caribbean brands thrive in the competitive US market.
With over a decade of leadership at Carib Brewery USA, Asa P. Sealy brings a wealth of industry knowledge and strategic insight to Trade Trek USA. During his tenure, Sealy played an instrumental role in transforming Carib Brewery’s US operations, positioning its products as household names. Leveraging these experiences, he now aims to support Caribbean businesses in overcoming barriers such as regulatory complexities, market entry strategies, and supply chain inefficiencies.
“The Caribbean has an incredible wealth of talent and potential,” says Sealy. “However, many brands face barriers when entering the US market, including navigating regulatory requirements, understanding consumer behavior, and establishing supply chain efficiencies. Trade Trek USA eliminates those barriers by providing continuous access to the expertise and resources businesses need to thrive.”
Caribbean brands eager to expand internationally often encounter obstacles, including:
• Limited Access to Market Insights: Many businesses struggle to obtain data-driven insights critical for making informed decisions in the US market.
• Complex Logistics: Navigating import/export regulations and establishing reliable distribution channels can be daunting.
• Brand Visibility: Competing in the crowded US market requires compelling narratives and strategic marketing.
Trade Trek USA addresses these challenges through a unique subscription-based business model. This approach ensures that companies, regardless of size, have access to vital resources without incurring significant upfront costs.
The company’s subscription platform offers ongoing access to industry insights, operational tools, and market strategies tailored to each brand's growth objectives. Services include:
• Market Insights: Continuous updates on consumer trends, regulatory changes, and competitive analysis.
• Market Entry Strategies: Customized plans for successful US market launches.
• Branding and Marketing Support: Targeted campaigns to build brand awareness and customer engagement.
• Logistics and Distribution Solutions: Streamlining supply chain operations for efficiency.
• Regulatory Guidance: Expert advice to ensure compliance with US standards.
• Partnership Development: Connecting Caribbean brands with key stakeholders in the US market.
Sealy's extensive network of industry leaders, distributors, and retailers forms the backbone of Trade Trek USA’s strategic offerings. James Webb, former CEO of Carib Brewery USA, attests to Sealy’s transformative leadership:
“Working with Asa was a transformative experience for our business. His strategic insights and creative vision helped elevate Carib Brewery USA’s presence in a highly competitive market. I am confident that his leadership at Trade Trek USA will create the same level of success for Caribbean brands aiming to enter the US market.”
Looking ahead, Sealy envisions Trade Trek USA as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation within the Caribbean region. By creating accessible pathways to international markets, the company aims to elevate the global reputation of Caribbean businesses, fostering longterm success and sustainable growth.
For more information about Trade Trek USA and its services, visit www.tradetrekusa.com
Randall Mitchell, Joanne Brooks & Asa Sealy
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines with Asa Sealy and team
SENIOR LIVING
A SUPPLEMENT COURTESY OF WELLCARE
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Additional Senior Benefits: WellCare focuses on preventive care, chronic condition management, and 24/7 nurse assistance, ensuring that Arizona’s seniors stay healthy and supported. With a commitment to accessible, affordable care, WellCare is proud to offer a healthcare plan that meets the unique needs of seniors, providing peace of mind and improved health outcomes.
For seniors looking for comprehensive Medicare coverage, WellCare Health Insurance of Arizona offers flexible, tailored solutions to keep you and your health a top priority.
40+ Years of Family & Community
Cont'd from page 1
Taking a leap of faith, they opened the Caribbean Market in 1984, a modest 1100 sq. ft. store that quickly became a gathering place for those longing for a taste of home.
and customer service built a loyal following, with customers becoming more like extended family.
A New Chapter in Orlando
In 2005, the Moonasars took another bold step, selling their Maryland operation and relocating to Orlando, Florida. On May 13th of that year, they opened
Caribbean Supercenter, a business that has remained familyoperated, with their children and even grandchildren playing a role in its growth. Despite the long hours and challenges, Star and Rosemarie have remained dedicated to excellence and innovation.
A Hub for the Caribbean Community
Caribbean Supercenter is more than a place to shop—it is a home away from home for the Caribbean diaspora. Customers come not just for the variety of fresh produce, spices, and specialty items, but for the sense of belonging. From stocking hard-to-find Caribbean ingredients to creating a welcoming atmosphere, the Moonasars have ensured that every visit feels like a trip back to the islands.
Their impact extends beyond groceries. Over the years, Caribbean Supercenter has supported numerous cultural initiatives, community events, and local organizations, reinforcing its role as a true pillar of the Caribbean-American experience in Central Florida.
Celebrating 40 Years of Excellence
As Caribbean Supercenter marks 40 years in business, we honor the vision, hard work, and community spirit of the Moonasar family. Their dedication has not only helped keep Caribbean culture alive but has also strengthened the bonds within the diaspora.
Congratulations to Star, Rosemarie, and their family on this incredible milestone. Thank you for 40 years of service, for bringing the taste of home to so many, and for continuing to uplift the community. Here’s to many more years of success and growth!
Kids For The O
KidsfortheO is a local 501(c)(3) verified non-profit that is run and directed by various teens around the Orlando area. This charity works to target and aid the disadvantaged youth in Orlando by providing youth services, hosting fundraisers, and volunteering at different events.
The organization’s mission is to make an impact in the community and help support kids/teens by identifying and tending to the needs in the community. With over 30 active members, hundreds of volunteer hours, and thousands of dollars raised, the organization has had the ability to touch the hearts of many and bring smiles to children's faces.
The most recent project for KidsfortheO has been assisting Athlete Connections in their annual toy drive on December 21st. In preparation for the drive, The organization was able to raise a total of $7000 dollars in a little over a week. With these funds, KidsfortheO conducted “toy runs”, buying hundreds of toys at a time. Members hand-selected toys for toddlers, children, and teens for the underprivileged families at toy drive.
In total, KidsfortheO was able to purchase over 375+ toys as well as collect 625+ toys to contribute to the drive, equating to over 1000+ toys gathered by the organization alone. The night before the drive, Kidsfor theO members met in the Grand Avenue Community Center to organize and set up the toys for the drive. Volunteers spent hours transporting, sorting, and organizing the donations in various piles for different age groups, arts and crafts, health, etc.
The day of the toy drive, members gathered at the community center around 7:30 am and finished last minute preparations. These volunteers acted as “elves”, and were ready to help families in any way necessary to make their holiday the best possible.
As families began lining up for the drive, the “elves” handed out food and drinks to the families who were waiting. Once directed inside, kids had access to different events which featured candy, balloon making, face painting, and a barber service. They then were led to the toy room where children could pick out their toys, and where 250+ kids could receive bikes as well.
Along with the toys, families were also able to be provided with the choice of a seasonal ham or turkey and a holiday meal box. Afterwards, the “elves” helped lead families toward the bouncy house and DJ in the front and returned to the front to help another family have a positive experience.
The organization’s volunteers guided the families through the entire process, helping and answering any inquiries.
Teen volunteers formed connections with the children, helping them with toy selection and making the drive overall more enjoyable for the kids. The volunteers were able to make Christmas better for a multitude of families, bringing smiles to many faces and even tears of joy!
The whole event ran smoothly, aiding all of those who
Two for the Price of One
We hear about “Gone With The Wind”, but “Don” with the wind is no Clark Gable. This is why a few of my readers demanded that I must go after Donald “Don” Trump today. At the same time, I had promised men who follow my column to learn more about themselves. One had told me, “Tony, one thing we know about you is that all you talk and write about is women.” He then told one of our friends passing by with his wife, “You have to watch this feller you know! Make sure he doesn’t get his hand on your wife, you hear!” We all knew it was a joke. However, going beyond it, Donald Trump is not my favorite leader, especially in his treatment of women, and the way more and more men, even the youngest ones, are trying to be like him This is why the research of men supporting him, and others in the Caribbean and other places, allows me to give all of you, my friends and colleagues, “Two For The Price of One.”
Most of the time, “Two For The Price of One” is not just a gift or special, it is two for the price of one, or buy one get one free. I will do even better. I’m going to give you three for the price instead of just two. This is because what follows will be the facts of the double “clammy whammy”. An old man went to the Wizard in the forest to ask him if he could remove a curse he had been living with for the last 40 years. The Wizard said, "I will try, but you will have to tell me the exact words that were used to put the curse on you.” The old man, without any hesitation said, "I now pronounce you man and wife." Then there were two men who met in a bar and were discussing popular family issues like sex, marriage, and values. The first one said, “You know, I didn't sleep with my wife before we got married, did you?" The other person replied, “Well, you know, I’m really not sure.” He then added, “What’s her maiden name?” Where we go from here though is like “bottom up” sales where you can get bargain shoes “two for the price of one.”
As promised, we’re now getting into The Conversation which is a network of nonprofit media outlets publishing news stories and research reports online, with accompanying expert opinion and analysis. It starts with “Trump represents a special type of masculinity- and its danger for women.” It points out that more men voted for Thump, and more women supported Harris. The organisation also believes that the President represents a particular type of masculinity: he is seen as brash and straight-talking; and can appear domineering or patronising around women. They are convinced that Trump has surrounded himself with men who promote the stereotype of the alpha male, demean childless women, and promote a version of family values that takes away from women’s autonomy.
However, Trump’s political supporters saw him as a “change” candidate. Most of his supporters (86%) were convinced he would change Washington for the better. The economy and immigration were top issues this time as it was in 2020. In a survey in September, 93% said that the economy was very important to their vote and was followed by their support for Trump’s position on immigration. Additionally, 83% viewed the criminal system as not tough enough to deal with the offenders. However, 71% said that the gains women made in society did not come at their expense, and 55% said religion should be kept separate from government policies.
By Tony Deyal
Throughout his career, Trump has made countless derogatory comments about women. However, there seems to be an attempt to change. What women need from men now is not their protection – they need men to listen to their concerns. However, this is and was never easy for even the best Presidents, especially on the “Presidential Joke Day.” Ronald Regan, the 40th US President, loved jokes and this is one, “Politics is supposed to be the secondoldest profession. I have come to realize that it bears a very close resemblance to the first.” Lyndon Johnson, the 36th President, asked one of his staff, “Did you ever think that making a speech on economics is a lot like pissing down your leg? It seems hot to you, but it never does to anyone else.” Barrack Obama, who was very apparent on the losing side against Trump said, “There are few things in life harder to find and more important to keep than love. Well, love and a birth certificate.” Obama was once accused of an “oral sex innuendo” when thanking Ellen DeGeneres for being a good sport about her televised push-up contest against the First Lady (Michel Obama). The President is said to have told Ellen that she was a gay friend “who accepts a little bit of teasing about Michell beating her in push-ups”. He then claimed that “Michelle didn’t go all the way down.”
John F. Kennedy complained that his father’s money was buying the primary for him, “I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy: Dear Jack, don’t buy a single vote more than is necessary. I’ll be damned if I’m going to pay for a landslide.” Bill Clinton, the 42nd President, who also supported the losing party, once said, “Being President is like running a cemetery: you’ve got a lot of people under and nobody’s listening.” Of course, that was not totally true since he had been publicly accused of sexual misconduct including rape, harassment and sexual assault. Even now, Monica Lewinsky, is still doing very well. Teddy Roosevelt, the 26th of the group, said, “When they call the roll in the Senate, the Senators do not know whether to answer ‘present’ or ‘not guilty.”
My favorite is Jimmy Carter, who died less than a month ago. He came up with one of my favorites, “My esteem in this country has gone up substantially. It is very nice now when people wave at me, they use all their fingers.”
Whatever else the present President is doing, there is talk that he is trying hard to reduce, if not end, his controversial remarks about the opposite sex. Maybe in addition to his mouth, he should shut his eyes when women, even nuns, are around. Two of them were painting an office at the rectory on a hot summer day. One said to the other, “We should take off our habits so as to not get paint on them.” So, both nuns were painting the room in the nude when they heard a knock on the door. Flustered, one said, "Who is it?". They heard a man's voice saying, "Blind man." Figuring the man wouldn't see anything, they opened the door. The man walked in and said, "Nice tits ladies. Now, where do you want me to install these blinds?"
*Tony Deyal was last seen hoping that if a lady friend yelled and shouted, "Give it to me! Give it to me! I'm so wet, give it to me now!”, the President would continue to hold on to the umbrella.
ThePowerof$50
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VISITUS
REAL ESTATE WITH KADEEM
Boost Your Credit Score: Tips for the Caribbean American Community in 2025
By Kadeem Roberts
2025 presents new opportunities for financial growth —but achieving these goals often hinges on one key factor: a strong credit score. Whether you're aiming to purchase a home, start a business, or simply improve your financial health, understanding and improving your credit score can open doors. Here are practical strategies tailored for Caribbean Americans to boost credit scores and secure better financial opportunities in2025.
1.GetontheElectoralRoll
Many in the Caribbean American community may overlooktheimportanceofregisteringtovote.Beyond civic engagement, being on the electoral roll can positivelyimpactyourcreditprofile.Lendersoftenuse voter registration to verify your identity and stability, whichcanstrengthenyourfinancialcredibility.
2.RegularlyCheckYourCreditReport
Mistakes happen, and inaccuracies on your credit report can cost you. Regularly review your credit report to ensure it accurately reflects your financial activity.Spottingerrorsearlycanpreventunnecessary damage to your score. Additionally, monitoring your report can help you detect fraudulent activity, such as unauthorizedaccountsortransactions.
3.KeepCreditCardBalancesLow
Using credit cards responsibly is critical for maintaining a good credit score. Aim to keep your balances below 30% of your credit limit to show lenders you can manage credit wisely. If possible, pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest chargesanddemonstratefinancialdiscipline.
4.BuildCreditHistory
A lack of credit history can be a barrier, especially for newcomers to the U.S. financial system. If you're new tocreditorseekingtorebuild,consider: Openingasecuredcreditcard:Thesecardsrequ-
ire a deposit but can help establish a positive credit history.
Adding your name to household bills: Being listed on utility, broadband, or energy accounts and paying them on time can reflect positively on your credit profile.
Becoming an authorized user: Joining a family member's credit card account with a strong history can benefit your credit score without requiring your owncreditapplication.
5.PayBillsOnTime
Payment history is one of the most significant factors influencing your credit score. To ensure you never miss a due date, set up automatic payments for recurring bills. Even a single late payment can negatively impact your creditscore,soconsistencyiskey.
6.UseCreditEligibilityTools
Before applying for new credit, use online tools that offer "soft" credit checks to assess your eligibility. These checks allow you to explore loan and credit card options withoutaffectingyourscore.Avoidmakingmultiple"hard" inquiries,asthesecanloweryourscoretemporarily.
7.MaintainLong-TermCreditAccounts
While it’s essential to shop around for the best deals, keepingolderaccountsopencanbenefityourcreditscore. Long-term credit accounts demonstrate stability and a proventrackrecordofmanagingcreditresponsibly.
8.BreakFinancialLinkswithEx-Partners
If you've had joint credit with someone and are no longer financially connected, ensure that association is removed from your credit file. Their credit behavior could affect yourscore,sobreakingthesetiesisvitalforyourfinancial independence.
9.TapintoCommunityResources
Caribbean American organizations and financial literacy programs can provide guidance tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the community. Look for workshops, online courses, or mentoring programs that focus on credit building and financial planning.
