FREE
Your Passport to the Caribbean American Community
Caribbean American Heritage Month Ribbon Cutting June 1st at City Hall
n Sunday June 1st the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and the Heads of Caribbean Organizations will kick-off the activities and celebrations in commemoration of Caribbean American Heritage Month at Orlando’s City Hall from 4:00pm to 8:00pm with a diverse array of cultural presentations, authentic Caribbean foods, music, dance and a Kiddies Carnival parade. All Caribbean Associations in the Greater Central Florida area will be participating in the official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 7:00 pm. We invite all community leaders, community groups, fellow Chambers and our fellow citizens of central Florida to come and experience a sampling of the festivities that will be presented on June 22nd at Lake Eola. At the Caribbean American Heritage Month (CAHM) Festival on June 22nd there will restaurants presenting a ‘Taste of the Caribbean’, Health Screening booths, craft and Business booth, a full Kiddies Carnival Parade, a kiddies zone, ‘Beers of the Caribbean’ and non-stop Caribbean American cultural entertainment . . . Steelpan music, Junk-A-Noo parade, Indian dancers, Tasa Drums, reggae and soca musical performaces and the ‘Spoken Word’ performed to rhythmic sounds. Come out and experience the Caribbean right here in Downtown Orlando. For more information about participating or sponsoring these activities please contact 407-427-1800 or toll free at 1877-220-8315.
NEWS MAGAZINE
Caribbean American Passport now covers the Entire State of Florida! Join our growing list of distribution locations and get listed on our distribution list for FREE! Copies will be delivered to your location monthly! See page 3 for more details.
IIFA Celebration of Indian Cinema in Tampa Bay
Article and pictures by Michelle Rocha 6th April, 2014, Tampa Bay: The 15th Tata Motors IIFA Awards surpassed expectations with a spectacular show that saw the film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag nab the top Awards of the night including Best Picture, Best Direction, Performance in Leading Role (Male), Performance in a Supporting Role (Female) and Best Story.Aashiqui 2 bagged awards for Music Direction, Lyrics, Playback Singer (Male) and Playback Singer (Female). Deepika Padukone won the Award for her much acclaimed role in Chennai Express while Farhan Akhtar won for his role in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Celebrating the magic of Indian Cinema, the Tata Motors IIFA Awards was held at the Raymond James Stadium where actors, Shahid Kapoor and Farhan Akthar played host for the second time. The duo kept the audience entertained throughout the evening with their humour, wit and laudable on-stage camaraderie with sets varying from a celebrity antakshri to a live-rap with the audience (Raju & Pappu) to them being dressed as spirited pirates. Some of the highlights of the evening were the launch of IIFA Coffee Table Book by
Continued on page 19
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
1
2
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
L I F E S T Y L E Sam Roberts, Publisher
Caribbean American Heritage Month ‘Caribbean Unity’
During Caribbean American Heritage Month as Caribbean Nationals representing our native homelands we come together to celebrate and showcase the diversity of the Caribbean American community. It is this true cultural, musical, religious and even racial diversity that makes us a great people—Caribbean American people. We come out waving our respective flags and/or wearing our National colors and it is truly a beautiful sight to see, however we must also remember that while we showcase and celebrate that simple diversity that makes us unique we must remember that as a united Caribbean American population we are oh so STRONG. In 2013 our President, President Obama’s proclamation stated in part – “For centuries, the United States and nations in the Caribbean have grown alongside each other as partners in progress. Separated by sea but united by a yearning for independence, our countries won the right to chart their own destinies after generations of colonial rule. Time and again, we have led the way to a brighter future together — from lifting the stains of slavery and segregation to widening the circle of opportunity for our sons and daughters. National Caribbean-American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate those enduring achievements. It is also a chance to recognize men and women who trace their roots to the Caribbean. Through every chapter of our Nation’s history, Caribbean Americans have made our country stronger — reshaping our politics and reigniting the arts, spurring our movements and answering the call to serve. Caribbean traditions have enriched our own, and woven new threads into our cultural fabric. Again and again, Caribbean immigrants and their descendants have reaffirmed America’s promise as a land of opportunity.”
ubscribe to Caribbean American Passport News Magazine today. Get the news delivered directly to your door each month! For a limited time we are offering a one year subscription to CAP News Magazine at $25.00. This will also provide you with discounted admission to events, coupons for shopping at your favorite stores as well as updates on caribbean events coming up in our community. This school year give the gift of a subscription to CAP NewsMagazine to someone and we will personalize a card to them from you in that gift package. Name ______________________________________ Date ___________ St. Address __________________________________________________ State _____ City _____________________________ Zip _______ ______ Phone ___________________ Email ______________________________ Signature ____________________________________________________
Please mail this subsciption with your check or money order to: Caribbean American Passport News Magazine 1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 407-427-1800 ! Yes this is a gift subscription from: _____________________________________________________
Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor
We are a strong part of American’s history and we continue to play major roles in the professional, business, political, socioeconomic, sports, cultural, community….etc, development of America. However, as a united Caribbean American community we are failing, we are still strongly influenced by the Colonial rule of ‘Divide and Conquer’. Back in our homelands we were politically divided and in many cases economically divided so that the powers that be can influence control over the smaller segmented groups. As Caribbean Americans we have the power to make major changes in our communities, our Cities, our States, in this new found home…the United States of America. Do you have any idea what a force we would/ could be if we come together as a United Caribbean American community? Based on a 2010 US Census data report, there are over 1.5+ million citizens of Caribbean/Hispanic/Haitian heritage living and doing business in Florida. to see Census report, go to http://www.census.gov/prod/2011pubs/acsbr10-15.pdf Please my brothers and sisters let’s think about this number for a minute…over 1,500,000 people of Caribbean decent living and doing business in Florida. If 10% of us decided to spend $10 a month to support a particular business…..let’s do the math – that would equate to $18,000,000 a year in revenue..….that was an example of the economic impact. Mitt Romney lost Florida’s 29 electoral college votes by a margin of 73,858 votes; President Obama won with 4,236,032 to Romney’s 4,162,174….need I say more? Caribbean American Heritage Month – June 2014 will showcase a diverse array of cultural, business and community events, let us come together waving our flags but united as ONE CARIBBEAN – Join us on June 22nd at Lake Eola for our Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival and visit our website (www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com) for a full listing of events or call us for additional details 1-877-220-8315 or 407-427-1800; get involved…..let’s make a difference in our community.
Distribution Points - we want to highlight your business on our website and on our social media pages. Please contact us to register your business as a monthly distribution point and get additional exposure for FREE! *WE'RE HIRING! CONTACT US TODAY!*
GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 407-427-1800 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com For Media Information email: capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com Should you desire to review past copies of the publication go to http://www.issuu.com/caribbeanamericanpassport and search for Caribbean American Passport News Magazine. Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Editor & Publisher ............................................................... Sam Roberts Graphic Design & Layout ..................................... Jan Longwell-Smiley Contributing Writers: ................................................... Rosemarie Roth ..................................................................................... Natasha Gittens ........................................................................................ .Karlyn Hylton ............................................................................................ Gail Seeram ........................................................................................ Kamal Abdool . .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell ................................................................................ Nouchelle Hastings Contributing Photographers ........................................ Karma Imaging ......................................................................................... Dillia Castillo ........................................................................ WizSpk Communication ................................................................................ Uriah Photography ..................................................................................... Ronald Williams .................................................................. Miami Dade North Campus Distribution & Sales.................................................... ...Delroy Edwards Distribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts ....................................................................................... Frank Ambrose Copyright (C) 2013 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
3
AN INTERVIEW WITH LAUREN FRANCIS-SHARMA, AUTHOR OF ‘TIL THE WELL RUNS DRY Q: What inspired you to write this book? A: For Farouk parenthood is an extension of his love for Marcia. After the breakdown of the marriage, he is angry, and A: I was not inspired as much as I was looking to understand my feels betrayed, and though he still loves Marcia, the children be-
maternal grandmother, a woman whom I did not feel like I really come central figures in his burning resentment—the only way he knew. When she had her first stroke, I sat next to her hospital bed can continue to hurt Marcia for the never-ending pain he experiences. and realized I knew so little. She was not one For Marcia, because of the twins, perhaps even to share her feelings and I had never bothbecause she is a woman, she understands that ered to push her on the details of her life parenthood is a separate entity from marriage, story. I wrote this book, which is loosely though she’d like for them to co-exist. Of based on the little I knew about her, as a course, having the children means having a way to fill that void. small part of Farouk, and though she sometimes resents the burden parenthood has Q: The case could be made that placed on her life, Marcia’s commitment to Blanchisseuse, a sea-side village in them is unwavering. Farouk eventually comes Trinidad, is a character in the book. What to understand this kind of commitment, this drew you to this particular town, and kind of love. what effect does it have on the lives of your characters? Q: You manage to capture the sights, sounds, food, and – let’s not forget – the A: I firmly believe that the places where we voodoo of Trinidad. How much research did live as children are natural characters in our you have to do in order to make story, so it seemed befitting to attempt to this country come alive? Can you talk a make Blanchisseuse come alive on the page, bit more about the obeah women and their as this is how Marcia feels about her birthrole not only in your book but in place. My grandmother’s family purchased Trinidadian culture? land in Blanchisseuse in the early twentieth A: I was born in America to Trinidadian parcentury, and my grandmother was born and ents. There are some things that come to you raised there. Many of my mother’s childhood Lauren Francis-Sharma by osmosis when you are part of the first genmemories, her stories, are set there. To me, Blanchisseuse is a magical place, and it has been a part of me for as eration growing up away from the family homeland. But to be honest, there were more things that were fuzzy. I did my best—through long as I remember. asking questions, reading books, and traveling to Trinidad—to make Q: The chapters in ‘Til the Well Runs Dry are told from the it as alive and as authentic as possible. I know I did not get it all perspective of three central characters. Why did you choose right, but my goal was to serve my family and the country well. As these specific characters to hold up the arc of the story? such, I do not particularly like the word “voodoo.” “Magic,” “the mystical,” “witchcraft” are used for the same purposes, yet do not A: When I began writing this story, Jacqueline was the carry the same connotation. So, yes, perhaps “obeah” is simply a protagonist. On the first page she wakes to the sound of her mother different label, but in my mind, obeah, the use of which was far tapping a spoon on the lip of a pot. The story should have been a more prevalent fifty years ago, is not always hateful and vengeful. coming-of-age story where Jacqueline grows to understand herself People have used obeah to guide them in making important life and her quite difficult mother. But as I continued to write, this decisions and to protect them from negative outcomes. In this mother, Marcia, began to steal scenes. And before long, Farouk also story, Farouk simply wants to capture Marcia’s heart. It is the obeah became a necessity, as someone needed to tell his story. Now I woman, the bearer of the institution, abusing her privilege for her couldn’t imagine it any other way. own gain, who throws a wrench in his plan.
Q: Marcia, one of your main protagonists, is an incredibly Q:
Marcia makes the ultimate sacrifice for her children when strong woman – both mentally and physically. Where do you she leaves them behind in Trinidad and immigrates to the United think her strength comes from, and is she an amalgamation States with the intention, of course, to earn enough money to of you and your grandmother? bring them all to the States at some point. While Marcia struggles to get her footing, do you think that her home country of Trinidad A: The circumstances, the world, into which Marcia is born and its melting-pot population gave her an advantage when makes living a challenge, but she wants to survive. And even she arrived in the melting pot of New York City? though she can be a hard woman, many of her decisions show immense vulnerability. To me, therein lies her real strength: To A: No. I do not think anything can prepare a person for that kind choose to love. To choose to be a mother. To admit fear. To fight of life transition. Immigration is dislocation. One’s life is completely fear. These qualities make her strong. My grandmother faced turned on its head. Think back sixty years or more and imagine you many of the same challenges, and Marcia is who I hope my grand- have no television, you’ve seen maybe one movie, you know very mother was deep down inside. Marcia is also who I hope I am or little about the place where you will live. Then imagine that when will be, though I would like to be more openly expressive about you get there nothing goes as planned. The person who leaves her my love for others. home seeking a better opportunity, who is willing to do what it takes and sticks it out despite all that inevitably will go wrong, is inherQ: The topic of parenthood – and most especially motherhood ently better equipped than many of the rest of us. But she needs a – is central to your novel. This theme deeply affects two of your chance. The only advantage Marcia has when she arrives in New three protagonists, namely Marcia and her husband, Farouk. York is that there are other West Indians who are willing to help her. After they have their first child, Farouk learns of a family secret Community is the key to many immigrant success stories. on Marcia’s side, which threatens their relationship. In fact, he moves out of their shared home. Yet year after year, they keep Q: Is ‘Til the Well Runs Dry the first book you’ve written? having children. After their fourth child arrives, Farouk becomes very detached from his family. What is it about parenthood that A: I wish! No, I had two novels prior to this that I failed to brought them together and then drove them apart? get published.
4
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
SUNRAIL TICKET PURCHASES AVAILABLE Sanford – In anticipation of and debit. To further assist SunRail customers, technical representatives for the ticket vending machines also will the May 19th start of be at each SunRail station to troubleshoot the launch of SunRail revenue service, the this new electronic ticketing system, and if Florida Department of Transrequired, answer inquiries. portation is announcing Monday that tickets are available for customers to purchase on-line, at the www.sunrail.com website, and • Online: This is a handy site for those who already have a SunCard to manage their accounts. The www.sunrail.com at ticket vending machines located at each SunRail website will also allow passengers to register their SunCards platform. This means SunRail tickets will be to guard against fraud, theft or loss, and to load or available for purchase a full week in advance reload SunCards online. The online serof when they will be required to board trains vice will also allow you to buy a SunCard on May 19th. Free service on SunRail will last ($5 fee) and have it sent to you, however, through May 16. due to security reasons we cannot send you a SunCard with any prepaid amount in it. To board SunRail starting May 19th, riders This is to guard against theft of your card will need to purchase one of several differand to protect your financial information. ent types of fare media – a reloadable weekly, monthly or annual pass; a stored Once passengers purchase their SunRail value card that customers can reload with ticket, they will need to “Tap On” at one of a pre-determined amount of money; or a daily or three ticket validators located on each platround-trip (paper) ticket. A $5 one-time fee will be charged for all reloadable fare products, called SunCards. Please see the fare form before boarding SunRail, and then “Tap Off” at their table below for fares and discount incentives associated with the final destination station for the proper fare to be deducted. If passengers do not “Tap Off”, the full fare will be deducted purchase of a SunCard.
To board SunRail starting May 19th, riders will need to purchase one of several different types of fare media – a reloadable weekly, monthly or annual pass . . .
• At Ticket Vending Machines: SunRail customers will be able to purchase fare media products at SunRail ticket vending machines located at SunRail stations. from their account. Conductors on board all SunRail trains There are four located at each station. Three machines also will be randomly checking tickets to ensure that passenaccept credit and debit only. One accepts cash, coins, credit gers have “Tapped On”. In addition, SunRail Ambassadors dressed in black polo shirts featuring the colorful SunRail logo are currently stationed at each platform to assist customers with ticket purchases and to remind them to “Tap On” and “Tap Off” once revenue service begins.
Again, customer service representatives will be available to assist should any technical matter arise. Passengers needing on-line or additional assistance with purchases should contact the SunRail Customer Service Desk at 1-855-RAIL-411 or 1-855-724-5411.
Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator Immigration, Family, Wills & Trusts, Mediation 1073 Willa Springs Drive, Suite 1017 Winter Springs. Florida 32708 esquirebrown@nadinebrownpa,com www.nadinebrownpa.com
407-678-2224 Fax: 407-788-2225
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
5
Letters to My Lawyer™ By Sasha A. Watson
glect, the first step is to contact USCIS customer service at 800-3755283 for a status on your case. USCIS will request service on your case with the local office adjudicating the case. If that does not resolve the problem within 90 days, you should schedule a free Infopass appointment (https://infopass.uscis.gov/) with the local USCIS office where your interview was conducted for a case status inquiry.
If the case is not resolved within 30 days after an Infopass appointment, your only other real option would be to file a federal lawsuit against USCIS and the Department of Homeland Security asking a judge to decide your citizenship application. USCIS will have 60 days to respond to the law suit. In these cases, the judge will either make decision on your case, and award you US citizenship, or she will ear Lawyer, order USCIS to make a decision by a date certain. Filing a lawsuit is I applied for my US citizenship about two (2) years usually a very effective method of resolving these types of cases as ago. I did the fingerprint appointment and went to USCIS may be liable for payment of your attorney’s fees and costs. the interview in August 2012. At the interview, I passed the required tests and was given a letter stat- If you have a criminal history, you should always consult an attorney before filing a naturalization application or a federal lawsuit to ing I had passed all requirements and that I needed to submit a copy of my divorce decree. I submitted the divorce adjudicate a naturalization application as your criminal history may papers immediately after the interview by going to the office subject you to deportation. and turning it in to the officer, as requested. To date, I have not received a response on the application nor have I been given a Regards, date for the swearing-in ceremony. I would like to petition for Sasha Watson, Esq. HAWM, PLLC my daughter and her husband and this is causing a delay. Can you please advise me on what to do? Please submit your letters to letters@hawmlaw.com. Each month a reader’s selection will be chosen for response
Please help, Citizenship Pending Dear Citizenship Pending: The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is required to adjudicate all citizenship applications within 120 days after the interview or after all requested documents are submitted. Delays in citizenship applications can be caused by several different reasons. Historically, delays were as a result of backlogs in the background check process which is conducted by the FBI. USCIS changed the policy several years ago and currently the practice is not to schedule applicants for an interview until the FBI background check has been completed. However, there are still a few cases where this remains an issue.
This column is primarily for educational purposes as well as to give the reader general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide any legal advice whatsoever. By reading this column you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and writer/ publisher. This column should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney. This column is not published for advertising or solicitation purposes. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Letters to My Lawyer™ is a publication of Karlyn Hylton & Sasha Watson of Hylton, Adamson Watson, PLLC 120 E. Colonial Drive |Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-802-3223 | F: 407-377-1971 Email: letters@hawmlaw.com
Another reason for delay is, unfortunately, neglect. In the case of ne-
Specializing in West Indian And Chinese Dishes
(407) 291-2047 7371 W. Colonial Dr. (Dr. Martin Luther King Dr.) Orlando, FL 32808
6100 Old Winter Garden Road • Orlando, FL 32835 Guyana, Trinidad & American Hand-made Jewelry!! GOLD!!! REPAIRS WHILE YOU WAIT WE BUY SCRAP JEWELRY All Your Scrap Gold Redesigned!! Latest CD’s, DVD’s & West Indian Music Cricket Gear Available
Hours:
Monday - Thursday Friday - Saturday Sunday
11 am – 10 pm 11 am - 2 am 11 pm – 12 Midnight
WE ACCEPT
6
& Sari House
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
POOJA CENTER Wedding & Janew Accessories Shalwar, Lehengas, Kurtas Children’s Clothing PUJA ITEMS & MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
LARGEST SELECTION OF MARBLE MURTIS
407-291-6900
ImmigrationINFO
TM
Immigration News for Our Community
Arrival/Departure Records Available On-line for Past 5 years ber, most recent date of entry, class of admission and admituntil date. Please note that the system does not reflect changes of status, extension of stay or adjustments of status granted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. You then have the option to print the record.
By Attorney Gail S. Seeram, Gail@GailLaw.com 1-877-GAIL-LAW
What happens at the port of entry when I enter the United States?
@GailSeeram FREE In-Office Consultation FREE Live Chat – visit www.GailLaw.com f you are a non-immigrant U.S. visitor seeking access to your I-94 arrival/departure record for any point within the past five years, on May 1, 2014, Custom & Border Protection (CBP) launched a new webpage that will allow you to retrieve this information. The portal will provide you access to the date and port of entry of your arrivals and departures from the United States for the past 5 years. When you visit https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/request.html you can retrieve your I-94 arrival/departure record number and fiveyear travel history by entering your name, date of birth, and passport information. Clicking on “Get Travel History” will return a five-year travel history based on the I-94 records, which you also can print. Clicking on “Get Most Recent I-94” will return the I-94 num-
Upon arrival, a Custom & Border Protection (CBP) officer stamps the travel document (passport) of each arriving non-immigrant traveler with the admission date, the class of admission, and the date that the traveler is admitted until. What happens at the port of entry when I depart the United States? CBP will record the departure electronically via manifest information provided by the carrier or by CBP. So, non-immigrant travelers are no longer required to surrender the previously issued paper Form I-94. The current processing time for entering foreign visitors’ travel information into the I-94 database is 30 days or more. Our office recommends all travelers to access their digital Form I94, review and print the information for accuracy upon their arrival into the U.S. As with any process that is electronic, there may be errors and you want to ensure that your arrival and departure records are correct so you have no problems or issues with your next entry into the U.S. and with future adjustment of status. The new automation process for Form I-94 only applies to passengers entering the U.S. with a non-immigrant visa – it does not apply to U.S. citizens or permanent residents (green card holders).
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
7
Breaking Point
fter a tremendously successful premiere and launch in Orlando at Universal Studios and an exciting and glamorous ‘meet and greet’ after part at Bob Marley’s - A Tribute to Freedom; the Breaking Point team are currently planning their next big move. They are currently planning their launch in New York on June 25th and then heading back to Florida for a launch in Miami on AuJames Hunter and Cody Foltz, gust 7th. Breaking Point is an The Breaking Point Premiere independent movie produced and directed by James Hunter with the stars Erick Grey and Diana Lovell. “Movies like ‘Breaking Point’ are dependent on the support of the viewers and community, we don’t get the big money backing like the other major Hollywood movies and therefore we are thankful for the support we received in Orlando” said co-producer Willie David III.
* Thank you for your referrals! They are very much appreciated *
The Breaking Point Cast
8
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Haitian Flag Day, May 18th 2014
or a country’s citizens, the national flag is indisputably a symbol of general pride. They would consider any offense to their flag to be an offense to their country. Beyond being an icon though, a flag’s origin can often say a lot about a nation’s social make-up or history. Haitians feel no different and even reserve a special day to honor it. That day is May 18th. In Haiti, Flag Day is a major national holiday celebrated with great fanfare on the grounds of the national palace. Haitians in the Diaspora also observe Flag Day. In The United States for example, teenagers whether in High School give homage to the red and blue by carrying it around with them or on their persona for at least a week. Haiti’s flag’s origin is tightly linked to a history of struggle for freedom.
In the early days of revolt in St. Domingue, the slaves did not have a flag. However, they did notice that their former masters were using the French Flag. From 1791 to about 1793, the revolt became more widespread and gave rise to a number of large groups still fighting independently. In those times, each main leader would use any piece of cloth as a flag. Slowly the slave movement found some synergy and came to follow the leadership one main person: Toussaint Louverture. Realizing that you cannot fight three enemies at the same time, Toussaint and the army of revolted slaves fought successively for the Spanish against the French (1793-1794), for the French against Spain and England (1794-1802) and ultimately against France. As such, he carried the color of whichever European power he was fighting for. He later realized that it was silly to use the same flag as the enemies. He then invented his own flag, which was a white piece of cloth with a Negro head to represent the blacks.
respectively. A lady named Catherine Flon sewed Haiti’s first flag. On Independence Day however, January 1st 1804, the flag was modified again. The Blue and Red bands were placed horizontally this time, with the blue band on top of the red band. This was the first flag of the independent republic. In 1805, shortly after Jean-Jacques Dessalines proclaimed himself emperor, the Haitian flag color was changed to black and red bands placed vertically respectively. After the emperor’s death, in 1806, the country will be divided into two republics for 14 years. Henri Christophe, in the northern part kept the flag that Dessalines used. In the south and the western part of the country, Alexandre Petion went back to 1804’s flag that was blue and red only this time he added the white squared portion that included the country arms and the famous phrase “L’UNION FAIT LA FORCE”, meaning that through unity we find strength.
That flag was in use until 1964 when Papa Doc Duvalier brought back the black and red flag of Dessalines and added a modified version of the arms of the Republic. On February 25 1986, after the fall of Baby Doc and the Duvalier regime, the people requested that the red and blue flag be brought back. The constitution of 1987 describes the new flag in these terms: The emblem of the Haitian Nation shall be a flag with the following description: a) Two (2) equal-sized horizontal bands: a blue one on top and a red one underneath. b) The coat of arms of the Republic shall be placed in the center on a white square. c) The coat of arms of the Republic will be a Palm tree surmounted by the liberty cap and under the palms a trophy with the legend: In Union there is Strength.
By 1803 as we saw, the leaders of the free slaves and the men of color had decided to fight for the creation of an independent nation. Before marching on Port-Republicain (Port-au-Prince’s name at that time) Dessalines and Petion needed to make a strong statement. On May 18, 1803, in the city of Arcahaie, not far from Port-au-Prince, they agreed on an official flag, with blue and red bands placed vertically. Blue and red placed vertically That is the flag used until today.
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
9
Kiddies Carnival 2014 Sunday, June 22, 2014 12:00 pm Lake Eola • Downtown Orlando
for Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival
T
he Orlando Kiddies Carnival is slated to be the kick off event of the Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival. “After 3 wonderful years, we have outgrown the park in Ocoee and we are now ready for a bigger venue. June is Caribbean American Heritage Month, so we are so thrilled to announce that the 2014 Orlando Kiddies Carnival will be at beautiful Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando on Sunday June 22nd at 12pm.” Said Kiddies Carnival Organizer Creig Camacho in a recent interview. The kids will parade up Rosalind Avenue and then “jump up” across the giant amphitheater stage to the sounds of sweet soca music. This will be followed by interactive games for the kids and parents and then they can burn off the extra energy in the Kids’ Zone with bouncy houses, etc. The Kiddies Carnival will be immediately followed by the Caribbean American Heritage Month (CAHM) Festival which is free to the public. The 2014 Orlando Kiddies Carnival and CAHM Festival will include a spectacular feast of Caribbean food, drink, dance and live musical performances presented by various Caribbean cultural groups. There will be Caribbean Food and drinks on sale all day and even a beer garden with ice cold Caribbean Beers (for the grown-ups of course). There will also be ample parking around Lake Eola and in the nearby parking garages. It promises to be a day of fun for the entire family. For more information (or to “Play Mas,” as we say in the Caribbean), please visit and like their facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/orlandokiddiescarnival. You will be able to see pictures of the costumes for this year, as well as lots of pictures from previous years. You can also visit their website at www.orlandokiddiescarnival.com or call 407-788-2326. Parents are encouraged to sign up children sponsor costumes for those who would like to play this year. The Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival guide is available online at www.cahmfestival.com.
10
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Western Union and Grace Kennedy Announce Educational Programs to the Caribbean Diaspora Pride of the Caribbean Scholarship Program and GraceKennedy Birthright Programme aim to enhance youngsters’ future opportunities to succeed iramar, FL – May 12th, 2014 – During the “Engaging the Diaspora—Enriching the Caribbean” forum held on May 7th, at the Miramar Cultural Center, in Florida, which gathered over 400 people, Western Union and GraceKennedy Money Services launched two important educational programs: Pride of the Caribbean Scholarship Program and GraceKennedy Birthright Programme.
to the Caribbean diaspora. Members of South Florida’s Caribbean diaspora were invited to listen to a number of speakers as they explored and exchanged ideas on topics including “Economic Integration through Education” and “The Impact of the DREAM* Act on Education.”
The distinguished presenters emphasized the importance of education throughout the event, including Gregory A Haile, General Counsel and Vice President for Public Policy and GovernThe Western Union and GraceKennedy’s Pride of the Caribbean ment Affairs at Broward College, who provided updates on Scholarship Program the DREAM Act and will award a total of its potential impact $20,000 in educational on the Caribbean diascholarships to two Carspora. “Children of ibbean students—born immigrants are rein the Caribbean or first quired to pay out of generation American. state tuition that can “We think this is a very be three to four times special time in each higher than the instudent’s life, when, state tuition, even if along with their parthey grew up in the ents, they are preparing U.S., which puts colto initiate a critical lege out of reach for chapter in their lives. many students. The In recognition of the DREAM Act will help Caribbean’s family’s to make earning a colloyalty, who continues Hazel Maragh - GKMS Caribbean Marketing Consultant - Florida; James Moss-Solomon - lege degree a reality by to send money with Executive in Residence Mona School of Business, University of the West Indies; Michelle allowing children of Western Union and Allen - CEO Grace Kennedy Money Services; Sean Mason - Regional Vice President, Western immigrants to qualify GraceKennedy, we’re Union International; Malou Harrison - President of Miami Dade College; Don Wehby - CEO for the more affordable to reward out- Grace Kennedy Group of Companies; Dr. Mildred Berry - Dean of Education, Florida Memorial able in-state tuition,” University; Gregory Haile - GC&VP for Public Policy and Government Affairs, Broward College; standing students as Ashira Mohamed - Mayor of Pembroke Park & Attorney at Law said Mr. Haile. members of the Caribbean community,” said Sean Mason, Regional Vice President— The event wrapped up with keynote speaker James MossCaribbean at Western Union. “All the details of the program will Solomon, Executive-In-Residence at Mona School of Business be informed on local Caribbean radio stations. Listen to it and at University of the West Indies, who encouraged members of get involved in the social topics to be able to apply for this oppor- the diaspora to pursue ways to help those still living in their tunity”, informed Mr. Mason during the event. home countries. “Our student homework centres in Jamaica were gifted thousands of dollars of computer software, which Don Wehby, Group Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy was made possible thanks to donations from members of the Limited, announced the reopening of the GraceKennedy Birth- diaspora,” Mr. Moss Solomon noted. He also spoke of the imright Programme in 2015. The program is a cultural and pro- portance of education, urging parents to expose their children fessional internship focused on emphasizing all aspects of Ja- to careers in science, technology, engineering and math, as maican life, while fostering the participants’ career goals. “The well as emphasizing the importance of mastering the English core values of the Programme focus on responsibility, hard work, language as a key factor to success. courtesy, leadership skills, and an eagerness to learn. It has been designed to give candidates a well-rounded Jamaican ex- “We are very pleased with the overall success of this Forum, perience“, said Mr. Wehby. which sparked an important dialogue throughout the community on how to enable our youngsters to be pillars for the The “Engaging the Diaspora—Enriching the Caribbean” forum Caribbean communities in the future, by focusing on their eduprovided a platform for important discussions of topics relevant cation today,” concluded Mr. Wehby.
Sam & Guenet Roberts, Owners of the Caribbean American Passport and with James Moss-Solomon, Executive in Residence Mona School of Business and Lisa Lewis Operations Manager Grace Kennedy Remittance Services (Guyana) Ltd
Sam & Guenet Roberts, CAP News Magazine, with the Jamaican Cultural Association President Dr. LeeFatt, Jamaican Cultural Connection President Vittel Smart, Sandy Isaacs and Marlon Hill
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
11
The Movement in 2014 to Ban Affirmative Action Basically, Jusiice Sotomayor was arguing that race matters, and her colleagues cannot just wash it away as if it does not exist. People of color need the protection of laws, and the Supreme Court has an obligation to safeguard its resident’s rights.
By Roger Caldwell
The problem of color was the defining problem of the twentieth century in the world, and it is still a defining problem in America in the twentieth-first century. People of color are still being exploited, discriminated, and mistreated, but many citizens refuse or afraid to initiate a local and national conversation on race.
As Americans, we can wish or try to wash it way, but it keeps raising its ugly head. More Tea Party members are arming hen Clive Bundy, a Tea Party hero tells Ameri- themselves with guns and weapons, and it appears they are cans the problem with African Americans is that preparing for war. they have not learnt how to pick cotton, and Donald Sterling, NBA team owner tells his girl- Since a Black man has won the election of president two times, friend to not take pictures with African Ameri- white America feels threatened, and they feel their power is can basketball legends in 2014; there is still a race slipping away. As America struggles with the problem of the problem in America. Back in the beginning of the color line, the question must be raised, “what part will it play 1900, Du Bois said, “the problem of the twentieth in the progress and advancement of human rights and equality in America and the world.” Americans can put their heads century is the problem of the color-line.” in the sand or confront the problem head on. Du Bois, a Harvard graduate argued that the concept of race would determine human history and world domination. He believed that the notion of race denied the opportunities and privileges as a result of the color line. Many scholars of color today believe that the system has not essentially changed, because there is a race problem, and class system that protects the status quo. As a result of America having the first African American president, many main stream scholars argue that discrimination and racial exploitation is disappearing, and decisions are now race neutral. Many believe that every American can now enjoy the privileges of being a citizen without regard to his race or his color. Even though many people of color have identified many Tea Party members as hoodless racists, the Supreme Court has decided to release a ban on race as a factor in college admissions in Michigan. “Last week, The Supreme Court says in a 6-2 ruling that Michigan voters had the right to change their constitution to prohibit pubJustice Sonia Sotomayor lic universities from considering race to admissions decisions. The 6 to 2 judgment could encourage other states to adopt similar bans on race-based college admissions,” says Dr. Sinclair Grey. There is now a movement that is sweeping country, where fairness and justice is being replaced by intolerance and hatred. Many Americans no longer believe that Affirmative Action is fair, and it is reverse racism. White folks feel that they are being mistreated, and the election of Barak Obama proves that African Americans have the same opportunities as all Americans. But Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor gave the dissenting opinion of the court by challenging Chief Justice Roberts. Sotomayor went on to say, “Affirmative Action helped her rise from public housing to attend an Ivy League university. She gave a detailed history of the court’s decision regarding political empowerment and efforts by majorities to dilute the strength of minorities. She reprinted pages of graphics showing the decline of minorities at top universities in California and Michigan since the states prohibited the use of racial considerations.”
12
Guest Speakers - Mrs. Barbara Sharief, Mayor of Broward County and Dr. Anil Ramnanan, Consul General of Trinidad and Tobago
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Life Worth Living Wellness Center
• • • •
Compounded Prescriptions Home Infusion Therapy Retail Prescriptions Weight Loss/Nutritional Coaching
• • • •
Diabetes Shoppe Fitness Center on Site Natural Vitamins Health Screening Events
• • • •
Competitive Pricing Medicare/Medicaid Accepted Most Insurances Accepted Delivery of your Medication
6488 Currin Dr., Suite 100 • Orlando, FL • 32835 407-522-5685 • Fax: 407.472.3995 www.lwlpharmacy.com
Be Smart. Get a FREE CONSULTATION with one of our expert trainers to assess your health needs and fitness goals. Additionally, this includes your choice of a Free Medical Review, Fitness Studio Day Pass or Free Personal Training Session.
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
13
May is Asian American Heritage Month he Asian American Heritage Council, also known as AAHC, is an organization of Asian American organizations in Central Florida – groups ranging from social, cultural, business, religious, educational, professional, to health & fitness and diversity networks. The organization began in 1980 when the U.S. President proclaimed in May a National Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Community leaders of ethnic associations representing various countries of Asia led by the Philippines, China, Vietnam, India, Malaysia, Korea, and Laos, organized the Asian Pacific American Heritage Council, or APAHC. Its first major project to celebrate the Heritage Month, was the first ever Asian Festival at Lake Eola Park in the heart of the City of Orlando. Over ten thousand people visited the park that day and enjoyed the cultural presentations at the amphitheater, savored the enticing aroma of ethnic food permeating the park all day, and ogled with wonder the arts and artifacts displayed by participating Asian nation. Asian Americans danced to the lilting strain of music from home. In 1995, the group reorganized as the AAHC, the Asian American Heritage Council, to include all 41 countries of Asia. In the last five years, some thirty five Asian American organizations have participated in the celebration of the Heritage Month through the Annual Asian Gala. Come celebrate the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month on Saturday, May 31, 2014 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Orlando Fashion Square Mall – 3201 E Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
14
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Vision of Flight
ike McKenzie started Vision of Flight in 2012 as a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing students with an introduction to careers in aviation and aeronautics. In response to the growing global need for approximately one million aviation specialists by 2020, Mike hopes Vision of Flight will expose students to these untapped fields, as part of the larger effort to encourage STEM careers.
A champion not only of youth education, Mike’s dreams were realized in November when a 14-foot tall monument was erected at the entrance of the Orlando Science Center’s Loch Haven Park to recognize a group of African American WWII fighter pilots – Tuskegee Airmen Red Tail Pilots. Although Mike wasn’t involved in WWII combat, he was given the honorary Red Tail status by the group of Tuskegee Airmen that were. They recognize him today as a Red Tail because of his help erecting the Orlando monument in their honor and for his continued partnership with Tuskegee Airmen through Vision of Flight. During a recent Vision of Flight program, Fly Day, 12 Central Florida stu- Vision of Flight aviation students and Mike dents had the once-in-a- McKenzie, founder, meet Lt. Cl. Hiram E. We work with your budget to make your event special for lifetime opportunity to Mann, an original Red Tail pilot. (Students left to right: Ezekiel Cousin, Christian navigate an aircraft from Stewart, Marshall Dong and Aiden Voorheis.) you and memorable for your guests. the pilot seat. They reTo reserve your space on our party planning calendar Contact Noorie ceived hands-on experience alongside Trax Air flight instructors at 407-427-1800 for a free event consultation or capnewsmagazine and were inspired by wartime heroes, Tuskegee Airmen. The halfyahoo.com. Let GGR Marketing & PR plan your Event! day program concluded at a special reception, where students received their “wings.”
LET US PLAN YOUR CORPORATE EVENTS FOR YOU!
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
15
16
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
MIA Media Group, Inc, launch ‘Legacy’ Central Florida egacy Central Florida recently partnered with the Orlando Sentinel for a 250,000 distribution of Legacy Central Florida magazine, becoming the largest minority-controlled and oriented publication of its kind in Central Florida History. Legacy Central Florida seeks to of fer business news and information, engagement, as well as, connection to Central Florida’s African-American professionals, affluencers and influencers.
two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation issued January 1, 1863. Today, Juneteenth is an opportunity to reflect on history and celebrate freedom in the African American community.
“At Legacy Central Florida, we pride ourselves in showcasing the best and brightest stars in our community. Their accomplishments inspire us and their commitment to serving others is the cornerstone of their power,” Dexter Bridgeman, the Central Florida is a timely expansion market for magazine’s Founder and CEO of MIA Media & Communicathe Legacy brand based on several market trends: African- tions Group, Inc. American buying power projected at $1.1 trillion by 2015 according to Nielsen. Bridgeman tapped noted multimedia personality and community champion Élan Tshayé Jackson as Legacy Central Florida’s Nationally, Florida ranks as the 2nd largest editor. For her, Legacy Central Florida, has for population of African-Americans. two primary functions: to promote and showcase the success of Black professionals and to create valuable partnerships for Orlando is #2 in Florida for the number of African-Americans by population. Central Florida businesses. ”When it comes to showcasing success, no one does it betMIA Media Group, Inc, successfully ter than Legacy; providing news and inforlaunched the Legacy brand a decade ago mation about influential professionals and now includes: Legacy South Florida, working in service to our family of communities. With this in mind, the addition Legacy Miami and Legacy Palm Beach. The Legacy brand was named, the Miamiof Élan Jackson to the ‘team’ at Legacy CenDade Chamber “2013 Small business of the tral Florida signals another important step Year”. Legacy has gained a reputation for forward in her career; and, too, presents a excellence in their publications and events new opportunity for her to help others sucoriented towards Florida’s African-Americeed, by helping all of us ‘stay better connected,’” said Jacob V. Stuart, president, can Professionals. Central Florida Partnership. Legacy Central Florida’s inaugural issue celebrates “Juneteenth” and Central As editor, Élan will focus on communicating, Florida’s “50 Most Powerful & Influential” executing, and sustaining strategic initiatives Élan Jackson Black Professionals in Business and Induswith the company. She brings more than a decade of community relations, public relations, sales and martry in 2014. keting experience to the role. Jackson is a board Member of Women The issue will premiere on June 19, 2014 in the Business Sec- In Film and Television, Florida (WIFT-FL) and currently tion of the Orlando Sentinel and will showcase the region’s hosts “Inside the Arts” on OrangeTV and “My iZonOrlando” most prominent and powerful professionals in civic and cor- on iZonOrlando.com, and her recent projects include: porate arenas. Sportscaster/Reporter for Watch ESPN, Wide World of “Juneteenth”, refers to June 19, 1865, the oldest known cel- Sports, NFL Broadcast Bootcamp participant, Caribbean ebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United American Passport, Zora Neale Hurston Festival, and the States. This is the date Texas slaves discovered they were freed— South Florida Times.
Laparkan Shipping opens new Office in Orlando n Saturday April 26th Laparkan Shipping opened its new location, 4250 LB McLeod Road, Orlando FL 32811. The Grand Opening event welcomed local community leaders, customers, family and friends; it was attended by Laparkan’s Chairman - Mr. Glen Khan, CEO & Vice Chairman – Hussein Haniff, Southeast Region Vice President - Maureen Singh, Corporate Manager of Marketing & External Relations, Mr. Wesley Kirton, Marketing Executive – Mr. Lance Gibbs and many other. Laparkan is committed to supporting and servicing the shipping needs of the Orlando community and has long been a community supporter. Attendees were impressed with the new location and were appreciative of Laparkan’s commitment to serving their shipping needs.
Brian Edun, Marketing Consultant
From left to right: Mark Narayan, Office Manager; Hussein Haniff, CEO & Vice Chairman; Maureen Singh, SER Vise President; Glenn Khan, Chairman; and Lance Gibbs, Marketing Executive
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
17
Eddy Edwards to host WDNA’s New Caribbean Jazz Program
WDNA TO AIR NEW CARIBBEAN JAZZ PROGRAM Eddy Edwards on board as Host Coral Gables, FL - South Florida’s premiere jazz music station WDNA 88.9FM, is proud to announce the addition of its newest program “Caribbean Jazz Riddims”, to be hosted by Eddy Edwards. The weekly program will be aired on Saturdays, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and will debut on Saturday, May 17. WDNA remains committed to America’s Classical Music-Jazz, alternative voices, Eddy Edwards and the marriage of entertainment with enrichment. As such, the addition of “Caribbean Jazz Riddims” is in keeping with the Station’s mission of providing quality music, arts and cultural programming to the residents of South Florida and beyond.
leaders in South Florida’s Caribbean community. The program was first aired on WVCG 1080 AM in March, 1984 and is currently aired on WZAB 880 AM. He has been recognized for his work in the Caribbean community by many organizations and continues to be a positive impact as CEO of Riddims Marketing, Inc., a full-service marketing and events production company which he founded in 2000. “The opportunity to present Caribbean Jazz on WDNA is both an honor and a dream come true,” commented Edwards, “The Caribbean has produced an abundance of talented jazz musicians and this provides an outlet to a diverse audience and a chance to engage new fans of the music. The program will be the first of its kind in South Florida and I look forward to having an enjoyable experience with the audience and the WDNA family.”
WDNA 88.9 FM is South Florida’s only source “We are delighted to have Eddy Edwards on for prime time jazz, and world beat music. For board as host of Caribbean Jazz Riddims,” almost 35 years the station has offered awardstated WDNA General Manager, Maggie winning jazz programs and special features Pelleya, “He brings a wealth of broadcast experience and such as Café Brazil, and the Reggae Ride. knowledge to WDNA and we look forward to his informative and creative presentation of the program.” WDNA is non-profit organization that provides a variety of services to the local community. The station also serves as a platEdwards has been in radio in South Florida for 30 years, as form from which students obtain valuable experience producer and presenter of “Caribbean Riddims”, which fea- and scholarshipsto further their music education. WDNA broadtures a mix of reggae, calypso and soca music, sprinkled with casts and streams - live - 24 hours every day from its Coral Way information and interviews with entertainers and community studios with predominantly locally produced programs.
18
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
IIFA Celebration of Indian Cinema in Tampa Bay Continued from page 1
the Founder- Directors of Wizcraft International Entertainment – Andre Timmins, Sabbas Joseph and Viraf Sarkari along with superstar Hrithik Roshan.
(Raanjhanaa) took to the IIFA stage to collect their accolades for the most promising new faces in Indian Cinema. The Tata Motors IIFA Awards, organized by Wizcraft International Entertainment, had a foot tapping performances line-up. Madhuri International actors John Travolta and Kevin Spacey shook a Dixit Nene stole the show with her performance on Ek Do leg on popular Bollywood hits. Kevin Spacey was brought on Teen, Piya Ghar Aaya, Dhak Dhak Karne Laga, Dola Re Dola. stage by Shahid, Farhan and Deepika to join them for a little jig to Lungi Dance while John Travolta joined Priyanka Chopra Another highlight of the night was the electrifying performance on stage at the end of her act and later joined Hrithik match- by Hrithik Roshan on his hit numbers Mein Aisa Kyun Hoon, ing moves with celebrity dancer-actor, Hrithik Roshan. Bhoomro Bhoomro, Idhar Chala Main Udhar Chala, Senorita and Dhoom among others. On having won the Per formance in a Leading Role (Female), Deepika Padukone said, ”2013 was an amazing year Priyanka Chopra performed on Jaane Kyon Dil Chahata Hai, Mujse for me. I left home with a suitcase and a dream and I thank Shaadi Karogi, Tune Maari Entriyaan and many more. Deepika my parents for allowing me to follow my dream.” Padukone performed on Dhol Bhajeamong others. Other performers were Ranveer Singh and Siddharth Malhotra. Farhan Akhtar on winning the award for Performance in a Leading Role (Male) said, “This is a very special moment as it is the The prestigious night of nights, the Tata Motors IIFA Awards first time I’m receiving an award for the film in the presence of will be broadcast globally on Star Plus. Some of the key partners Milkha Singh. He shared a lot of amazing stories with me and of the IIFA US celebrations are: Videocon d2h, Tata Motors, Freewas the wind beneath my wings. I am very honored today.” dom Health Insurance, Lava Mobile, Visit Tampa Bay Visitors and Convention Bureau, Visit Florida, Enterprise Florida, John Travolta was felicitated with an award for Outstanding Hillsborough County Florida, Tampa Bay Trade and Protocol Contribution to International Cinema. He accepted the award Council, Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Commissaying “I am honored and humbled to be put in this category. sion, Jammu & Kashmir Tourism, Arise, Vishal Fashions, UST I believe that as human being we are alike and this is a me- Global, Myntra.com, FedEx, LT Foods – Daawat and Royal- , dium to celebrate our similarities. A heartfelt thank you to IIFA Bishwa Bandhan for Cerebral Palsy. Other support partners inand the Indian film community.” clude Mosaic, Patina Solutions and Tampa Steel Erecting Company, Tampa International Airport, Tampa Bay Business JourDebutants, Vaani Kapoor (Shudh Desi Romance) and Dhanush nal and Tampa Bay Times.
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
19
Fit Like A Ras By Jeremy Roberts - NASM
How Fih Look Good Naked: Part 2 ell, las’ time de editors didn’t show de title of de column, so de fus paragraph probably didn’ mek no sense. If dey show it dis time, den yuh could probably guess dat de title las’ time was “How Fih Look Good Naked: Part 1”. Part 1 was about how fih lose de weight. Part 2 gon be about mekkin sure yuh got de right shape after losing de fat.
“LSC” (Long Slow Cardio). With that prescription, you’re likely to look like a marathon runner (well, not so extreme, since you probably won’t be that hard core). Essentially, you’ll be skinny but won’t have much shape. Check out the comparisons below.
Suh, yuh know how some people does lose weight an still don lok quite right? Sometimes de skin just hangin’, sometimes dey’s just skin an’ bone. Nobody don’ like dat. So wha’ fe do to avoid dat? I know which I prefer to see, and which I prefer to be! Well, de skin ting is a problem. Once yuh pas’ a certain age, skin ain’t as “elastic” as it used to be (check). So if de body get used to being a certain size, de skin will stay at dat size, wid only a little bit of “shrinking” to fit. A most unattractive look. Sometimes, is better yuh did stay fat!
So, part 2 of How fih Look Good Naked is about yuh exercise regimen – or yuh could shortcut everything an’ go get surgery. I always recommend weights for body composition transformation. Is a personal preference, yes, but I increasingly seein’ research dat supports using weights, and high intensity methWhen yuh check aroun’ de web, yuh see a few different ods in general – for fat loss and body transformation. If anystrains of advice on how to deal wid dis problem. One sug- body ever aks me, I would seh: gestion is to lose the weight gradually. II don’t like dat one at all. I feel the most effective way to lose weight is rapidly, 1. No treadmill before de body is able to adjust. The body has a “mind of its own” in a sense, and likes to keep us stable. If you reduce 2. No light weights (defined as anything you could do 15 or calories, the body slows down metabolism to maintain the more reps wid) current weight, for example. 3. Full body workouts every time in de gym Another one is surgery. I actually prefer this over the “lose de weight slowly” advice. It achieves the goal wit certainty (after 4. Consult a NASM certified Personal Trainer (like de Dread) all, even if you lose weight slowly, there ain’t no guarantee the fuh more personalized advice skin will shrink enough) and it don’ require patience, something I for one really lack! Good luck and train hard. Aside from de skin issue, how about de “skin an’ bone” issue? G.T. Dread A lot of the exercise prescription for weight loss is to go do NASM-CPT
20
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
CAFA Fusion 2014
AFA’s Caribbean Fusion celebrations on April 27th, 2014 saw thousands upon thousands come out and enjoy a family friendly day of music, dance and entertainment. The citizens and community members in Florida were treated to beautiful sunny Florida day with American, Caribbean, Haitian and Hispanic music, food and drinks. As the support and at-
tendance of the CAFA Fusion continues to grow from year to year, we must remember that without the support of the sponsors, the City of Kissimmee, the musicians, the vendors and all those who participated, the CAFA Fusion would not be the beautiful and successful event that it was on April 27th. This event was well planned and implemented by the members of the Caribbean and Floridian Association and we must say ‘Congratulation’ on a job well done.
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
21
THIRD ANNUAL TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN & JERK FESTIVAL COMES TO CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY
Crowd enjoys the day at beautiful Clermont waterfront park at last year’s festival une is Caribbean Heritage Month and you can immerse yourself in the tastes and sounds of island life—no passport needed—at the Third Annual Taste of the Caribbean & Jerk Festival, presented by the Caribbean American Association of Lake County (CAALC) on Saturday, June 14, 2014. The event takes place at Clermont Waterfront Park from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is just $5 for adults and $2 for children 10 and under. Parking is free.
soca, soul, jazz and more), dominoes, face painting , games, Kid’s Zone, Bounce House, arts & crafts, free health information, and much more! Have fun and be entertained while supporting CAALC’s scholarship program. Get to know your neighbors. Enjoy the colorful sights, rhythmic sounds, and delicious tastes of the Caribbean. There’s something for everyone!
Your admission serves up a feast for all your senses: a Jerk Cook-off competition, Caribbean cuisine, live reggae music, gospel and steel bands, Afro-Caribbean dancers, Indian dancers , DJ Phayz (Vibrant Soundz WOKB 1680am) bringing music from around the world (Latin, Chutney, calypso,
Sponsors include: City of Clermont, Advanced Nursing Concepts, Bennett Law Center, Lakeside Entertainment Center, Victoria Mutual and Caribbean Sunshine Bakery & Restaurant. For more information and vendor participation, email caalc@live.com, visit www. caalc.org, or call 352-978-0813.
Find Caribbean Restaurants, Plumbers, Events, Discount Coupons, Deals and Much More!
22
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Greater Orlando CARES Mentoring Movement
Dedicated to the Promotion &
DOWNTOWN
ORLANDO
VENDORS WANTED
Kiddies Carnival will be a part of the CAHM Festival. For more information call 407-234-4688. www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
23
MICHAEL A. MILLS, LLC YOUR INJURY ASSISTANCE LAW FIRM
We are here for you!
823 N. Thornton Avenue • Orlando, Florida 32803 20 3rd Street SW, Suite 302 • Winter Haven, Florida 33880 Office 321-234-2900 • Fax 866-941-5780 Call 1-800-8-INJURY from the Accident Scene www.injuryassistance.org 24
www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com