December 2010

FREE

NEWS MAGAZINE

Season’s Greetings from the Management & Staff of Caribbean American Passport News Magazine!

You’re Invited to Celebrate the Launch of Caribbean American Passport “Orlando’s Caribbean NewsMagazine” At our Caribbean Christmas Marketplace Event

December 18th, 2010 10 am -4 pm 6488 Currin Drive Orlando, FL 32835 (Metro West -Corner of Hiawasee & Flashing Lights)

Tel: 407-421-8118 All are Welcome, Admission is Free.

Lots of Giveaways, Vendors, Caribbean ChristmasMusic.

Formal Presentation & Gift Giveaways 2:30 pm

1

L I F E S T Y L E

W

ow, what a year 2010 has been. For many of us it has been a turbulent one filled with ups and downs while trying to figure out how to live this new life that we've been dumped unceremoniously into. Like most of you I had to start over from losing in the real estate market, losing a real estate career, losing savings and then still losing your credit in a last ditch bid to hold on to real estate. I like to joke now about the comatose state we fell into for a while trying to figure out - how, where and what about this new life?

Fast forward to three years later and I can see light coming up at the end of the tunnel. The "collapse in everything" as I like to call it - was a turning point for me. I used it to start working on a career I wanted - I stepped back and assessed the stuff I had - I had a fantastic database of Caribbean People in Florida, great contacts in the business community and an ability to design marketing campaigns for people that used very little money...it took into account strengths they already had and worked them in to give the campaign more of a kick. That worked for me and it segued into writing a weekly email newsletter of Caribbean Events that were happening here in Orlando to appearing on the Caribbean radio station twice per month to now this newsmagazine featuring Caribbean People doing their thing in Central Florida.

It's been a fun ride...Caribbean American Passport is only 4 issues old, but it's become exceedingly popular in a very short time. I love the diversity of our culture and the people working hard to keep it alive in this Community. Our last issue which featured the Curry Duck Curry Competition on the front cover was gone in a very short time, we played up the Trini, Guyanese competition in that event. We covered Grenada and Val Duncan in our Island Hopping Section and did a lot more features on local people and the feedback was that you want more of the same. So we’re going to keep our focus on the Caribbean people in Central Florida. If you work hard to keep up the culture in this community we will highlight your efforts. We currently print 5000 copies but soon it won't be enough. We intend to expand into Ocala, Space Coast and Tampa by early next year...Featuring their Around Town events and printing a special batch exclusively for those areas. Look out for us- share us with your friends, support our advertisers, subscribe to us so that you get the paper mailed to you monthly.

Caribbean American Passport News Magazine is pleased to announce... . . . the appointment of Sandra Fatmi as our Sales Manager. Sandra comes from a background in banking and events a solid mixture when coupled with her involvement in the community. She will be building our Sales Team and liasing with the Community on Outreach Programs for Caribbean American Passport, Newsmagazine.

For your advertising needs ontact Sandra Fatmi at 770 789-7004.

2

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

I look forward to 2011, it’s going to be exciting for us in the Caribbean Community. We have big plans for Caribbean American Heritage Month in June 2011 and you’ll start seeing more about that in our January issue. We’ll do an Island Hopping Section featuring a Caribbean island and a Personality from that island who lives right here in Central Florida.

We’re expanding and we’re hiring – I was trying to grow slowly but that isn’t an option anymore. So contact us if you’re an active member of the Caribbean Community or if you would like to be an active member of the Caribbean Community in Central Florida. We’re working on our Passport Team and you’ll see them all over next year at your events. We’re choosing one person from each active Caribbean Community to be our liason for events and anything else we need to be aware of in our community. Sandra Fatmi just joined us this month as Sales Manager – you’ll see lots more of her next year at our events.

Join us on Saturday, December 18th, 2010 to show your support of our NewsMagazine. From 10am - 4pm we'll be meeting and greeting you at 6488 Currin Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32835. It's in Metro West at the flashing lights and Hiawassee Rd. There will be lots of giveaways, specials and gifts.

So much to do, so little time, this is always the last column I write for the paper, so now I’m celebrating….the paper is out.

I’m finally off to do my Christmas Shopping, My extended family is coming to spend Christmas at my house this year. We’ve got a new baby in the family to cuddle and fight over. What I’ve learnt over the past three hard years is that a great life is not about money and gifts – sometimes it’s the little things that make the best memories. I realized that I’m happiest when surrounded by family and friends, so I look forward to having a wonderful Christmas Season filled with tears, fights, warmth and love. My wish for you is peace, prosperity a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year….From the Caribbean American Passport Family to yours!

Meri Krismas & Hepi Nu Yia GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1969 Alafaya Trail, Suite 133 • Orlando, Fl 32828 407.421.8118 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com Publisher/Editor ................................................ Guenet Gittens-Roberts Contributing Writers: ................................................. Samuel Roberts ............................................... Natasha Gittens ............................................. Jackie Rampergas ............................................. Natasha Walrond ....................................................... Janet Green ...................................... Shahzad Ahmed, Esq. .................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Contributing Photographers ................................................. KP Singh Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations All rights reserved.

Three Caribbean Nationals Pardoned

By NY Governor

C

aribWorldNews, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Dec. 8, 2010: Three Caribbean nationals convicted of immigration violations have been pardoned by New York Governor, David Paterson.

Benitez was 26 years old when he immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic. In 1988, after serving in the Navy, Benitez pled guilty to second-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance and was sentenced to 8 years to life in prison. This pardon will make him eligible to seek discretionary relief from deportation.

The three had all been subjected to deportation due to criminal convictions under immigration rules, but the pardon will now spare Jamaican Marlon Oscar Powell, Darshini Ramsaran, Two other individuals were also pardoned and will receive immiwho has dual citizenship in Guyana and Trinidad, and Mario gration relief as a result. In May 2010, Governor Paterson conBenitez of the Dominican Republic. vened a special Immigration Pardon Panel to gather information and recommend deserving individuals for pardons to assist Powell, who immigrated to the United States from Jamaica them in avoiding deportation. The initiative was designed to adin 1986, when he was 13 years old, had been convicted of dress several aspects of the immigration laws that may result in using a fake ID to gain admission to a club where he was inflexible and unjust decisions to remove legal immigrants from arrested for misdemeanor drug possession and sentenced to the United States, often tearing them away from their United States 9 months in jail - under the mistaken belief that he was citizen children or spouse. One harshness of the Federal law rethen 21 years old. sults from retroactive changes made in the mid-1990s, whereby crimes that did not previously carry the consequence of deportaPowell, who is now in immigration detention in New Jersey tion were made deportable. In many other cases, individuals preand was recently ordered removed from the country, will now viously had pled guilty without being aware that their plea might be able to have his case for removal re-opened. subject them to mandatory deportation. As a result, many indiRamsaran was brought to the United States on a visitor‘s visa, viduals who were convicted many years ago are now facing deand her parents never sought to adjust her status. When she portation, often after they apply for citizenship or seek to renew was 21, she pled guilty to third-degree robbery for being the their permanent resident status. driver during a street robbery perpetrated by her then-boyfriend and two other men.

‘That immigration officials do not credit rehabilitation, nor account for human suffering is adverse to the values that our counShe remained in custody for over two years, even though she try represents,‘ Governor Paterson said. ‘I have selected cases was sentenced to only 364 days in jail for her conviction. She that exemplify the values of New York State and that of a just has since been detained by immigration officials. society: atonement, forgiveness, compassion, realism, open arms, and not retribution, punitiveness and a refusal to acknowledge The pardon will assist her in obtaining a visa to live in the the worth of immigration. I will not turn my back on New YorkU.S. legally. ers who enrich our lives and care for those who suffer.‘

3

The herb Gully Root leads Jamaican scientist to finding an effective treatment for some types of cancer r Lawrence Williams, a research scientist at the Scientific Research Council (SRC) in Jamaica , has been awarded an international patent on a compound isolated from the Guinea Hen Weed as a protein complex of dibenzyl trisulphide. The SRC, one of Jamaica ‘s chief proponents of scientific research and development, commended its team member on his “outstanding contribution to science”.

D

the cancerous cells. Jamaican men have known this for years and used it to fight prostate cancer with beneficial results.

Previous research and knowledge from our Caribbean upbringing has shown that Caribbean women and Creoles have always used bitter herbs - in Barbados bitter herbs include cerasee, rice bitters, gully root, motherwort, mauby bark, neem, “governor’s balls”, and aloe vera, many of these are known as weekly staples in Guyana as well...we were told that it was good for us and so we had to drink it to clean out your blood or clean your body.

LOWERS BLOOD SUGAR While gully root has not been widely researched for diabetes, it has been documented to lower blood-sugar levels by more than 60 per cent in laboratory animals. This reflects herbal medical practice in Cuba where anamu as it is known there has been used as an aid for diabetes for many years.

BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM Gully root has also been verified to have immunostimulant properties. It stimulates the immune system to increase its production of lymphocytes and natural killer cells - powerful disease-destroying cells. At the same time, it increases the proThe SRC said the protein complex has the ability to kill a wide duction of interferon and interleukins - chemicals used by the range of cancers, Dr Williams’discovery has the potential to immune system in fighting cancers and infections. fight various kinds of cancers, a few of which are: melanoma, lung cancer and breast cancer. The molecule also has implica- FIGHTS INFECTIONS tions for the treatment of aging diseases.

It demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties against numerous bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeast. ComThe SRC noted that, with more than 13 years dedicated to this pounds in gully root directly kill and/or inhibit the growth of research, Williams has revealed that the complex is superior these germs. Interestingly, man medicine practitioners believe in killing cancer cells relative to the pure compound found in that infection plays a major role in many cancers. It is widely the Guinea Hen Weed-dibenzyl trisulphide.

Williams said used in folk medicine for treating infections. In Trinidad and that the next stage is conducting clinical trials of the compound Tobago this same herb, known as mapiurite and is used when and the development of a pharmaceutical agent. Rights to you have a fever. the patent are shared with Dr George Levy, a Jamaican-born PAIN RELIEVER medical doctor living in the United States .

Its traditional use as a remedy for arthritis and rheumatism In most of the Caribbean, this plant is known as guinea hen has been validated by clinical research that confirms its painweed, guinea hen leaf, garlic weed or gully it’s a herb that is relieving and anti-inflammatory effect. Researchers in Sweden indigenous to the Amazon rainforest and the tropical areas of demonstrated its COX-1 inhibitory properties (cyclo-oxogenasethe Caribbean, Central and South America and Africa . Its 1 inhibitors are a new class of popular and profitable arthritis botanical name is Petiveria alliacea. Anamu is the name it’s drugs). Gully root extracts have been found to relieve pain known as in the Spanish speaking Caribbean, Gully root or and inflammation even when applied topically to the skin.

Mapiurite is the name in Trinidad and Tobago . Whatever you This herb is used in some Caribbean countries for treatment of call it - this herb has a long history in herbal medicine in all Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, and cancer. Like most plants the countries where it grows. Herbalists and natural-health it contains many phytochemicals one of which is coumarin practitioners have traditionally used it for a wide variety of much like the spice Turmeric which has a very anticancer acconditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, infections, tion. Even the aroma of the plant is said to help with migraine diabetes, cancer, for pain relief, and to induce abortion. headaches

Herbal remedies have been used in the Caribbean for many years, the downside is the lack of written information about Now we’re finding out that these herbs really do have the ca- the dosage leverls, effects and side effects of using these rempacity to balance, cleanse and fortify the body. Drank weekly, edies. For example pregnant women who use Gully root have they will purge the blood and balance the body. This is real, been found to cause contractions of the uterus that can lead to ancient knowledge that must be reclaimed. abortion and miscarriage. As such, it should not be used by pregnant women.

Over the past quarter of a century, modern scientific research has studied gully root intensively. Many biologically active compounds have been discovered in anamu: flavanoids, triterpenes, steroids, and sulphur compounds. The research published now validates many of the historical uses of this herb.

CANCER INHIBITOR Laboratory investigations show that gully root retards the growth of several strains of cancer and leukaemia cells. Research showed further that the compounds in it were able to differentiate between normal cells and cancer cells, killing only

4

‘Tan saafly betta dan beg paadn.

Prevention is better than a cure.

Some Health Clinics Provide a sliding scale for payments

W

ith all the changes, rising cost and confusion about health care and health insurance not many Floridians realize that there are numerous FREE public clinics through out Florida that are Federally-funded health centers.

These facilities provide health care for you even if you have no health insurance - you simply pay what you can afford, based on your income. These health centers provide:

APOPKA CHILDREN’S HEALTH CENTER 618 S. Forest Ave. , Apopka , FL 32703-5338 407-886-6201

• checkups when you’re well • treatment when you’re sick • complete care when you’re pregnant • immunizations and checkups for your children • dental care and prescription drugs for your family • mental health and substance abuse care if you need it

WINTER HAVEN HEALTH CENTER Winter Haven , FL 33880 863-452-3003

Federally-funded health centers are in most cities and many rural areas. Listed below are some of Central Florida’s Pubic Health Centers and Free Clinics: LAKE UNDERHILL FAMILY HLTH CTR 5730 Lake Underhill Rd. , Orlando , FL 32807-4366 407-322-8645 x239 CENTRAL FL FAMILY HEALTH CENTER-ALAFAYA 11881 E. Colonial Dr. Ste A, Orlando , FL 32826-4723 407-322-8645 x239

APOPKA FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 225 E. 7th St., Apopka , FL 32703-5327 407-886-6201

EATONVILLE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 434 Kennedy Blvd. , Orlando , FL 32810-6272 407-645-3989 PINE HILLS FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 1800 Mercy Dr. Ste 20, Orlando, FL 32808-5646 407-209-3202 HCCH & DENTAL CLINIC 234 N. Orange Blossom Trl., Orlando , FL 32805-1612 407-428-5751

HEALTH CARE CENTER FOR THE HOMELESS 232 N. Orange Blossom Trl., Orlando , FL 32805-1612 CENTER FOR WOMEN & FAMILY HEALTH AT STADIUM PLACE 407-428-5751 1503-1507 Bill Beck Blvd. , Kissimmee , FL 34744-9516 407-343-2050 LAKE ELLENOR DENTAL CENTER 6101 Lake Ellenor Dr. Ste 106 , Orlando , FL 32809-4616 CENTRAL FL FAMILY HEALTH CENTER-HOFFNER 407-956-4660 5449 S. Semoran Blvd. , Orlando , FL 32822-1722 407-322-8645 x239 SOUTHSIDE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 6101 Lake Ellenor Dr. , Orlando , FL 32809-4616 PLANT CITY FAMILY CARE CENTER 407-322-8645 x239 508 N. Maryland Ave. , Plant City, FL 33563-3820 813-349-7568 PRIMARY CARE MED SVS-POINCIANA 105 N. Doverplum Ave. , Kissimmee , FL 34758-3309 CFHC LAKELAND OB/GYN 407-943-8610 1729 Lakeland Hills Blvd. , Lakeland , FL 33805-3016 863-452-3003 ZEPHYRHILLS FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 37920 Medical Arts Ct., Zephyrhills , FL 33541-4323 COMMUNITY HLTH CTRS @ CLEARWATER 352-518-2000 1020 Lakeview Rd. , Clearwater , FL 33756-3423 727-824-8100 SOUTH LAKE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER ZELLWOOD FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 1296 W. Broad St. , Groveland , FL 34736-2012 3688 Day Care Center Rd., Zellwood, FL 32757-7324 352-429-4104 352-735-2255 COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS TARPON SPRINGS LAKELAND PRIMARY CARE 247 Huey Ave., Tarpon Springs , FL 34689 936 E. Parker St. , Lakeland , FL 33801-1968 727-824-8100 863-452-3003 LEESBURG COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER WINTER GARDEN CHILDREN’S HEALTH CENTER 225 N. 1st St., Leesburg , FL 34748-5150 1210 E. Plant St. Ste 1300, Winter Garden, FL 34787-2995 352-360-0490 407-877-4350 WINTER GARDEN FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 1210 E. Plant St. Ste 1200 , Winter Garden , FL 34787-2995 407-877-4340

HEART OF FLORIDA HEALTH CENTER 1025 S.W. 1st Ave. , Ocala , FL 34474-4220 352-732-6599

ANTHONY HOUSE 6215 Holly Ln. , Zellwood, FL 32798 407-428-5751

FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER AT THE SHORES 9305 S.E. Maricamp Rd., Ocala, FL 34472-2343 352-793-5900

New Neighbourhood Pharmacy Opening Soon to Serve Ocala & N. Florida

PepperTree Pharmacy

5854 S.E. 5th St, Unit 1 • Ocala, FL 34472 • Tel: (352) 622-5601 Visit us after December 20th to discuss your prescription needs with us.

5

Golden Krust Orlando receives Best Caribbean Restaurant Award at Gospel Now Gala

S

till in its infancy - eight months and growing; Central Florida’s Premier Gospel Publication is setting trends and making marks that cannot be erased. Absolutely unforgettable in every way, the first annual Gospel Now Black Tie Gala created the near perfect blend of church and community, and faith and family. Almost 600 guests gathered at the Rosen Shingle Creek to enjoy an evening of elegance while paying tribute to some of the area’s pioneers in faith, and celebrating leaders in commerce and community service.

have impacted the community with incomparable displays of service and style. The 2010 NOW Award winners include Irv Gotti for Best Barber, Fades to Fro’s for Best Barbershop, Necole Morgan for Best Hair Stylist, A Nu U for Best Hair Salon, Golden Krust for Best Caribbean Restaurant, Mama Nems’ for Best Soul Food Restaurant, Mr. “Q” for Best Barbecue, and Bishop Allen T. D . Wi g g i n s re ceived the People’s Choice Award. The awards were presented based on popular votes cast on the Gospel Now website, www.gospel now.net.

Trailblazing Complimenting the gatekeepers and spectacular evening temple guards that was a host of artists have been called Livand ministers, including Legends of Faith, ing the Mime BOYZ, were honored for national recording their dedication and artist Madelyn Berry, devotion to the Cennational recording tral Florida Commuartist “Rob J,” and the nity. The 2010 recipiPrince from the ents are Overseer Chocolate NutcrackCarrie Buie Bryant er, Brenton McNeil from the True HoliGolden Krust Orlando voted Best Caribbean Restaurant in Orlando the newest member ness Deliverance Tabby online voting at Gospel Now Magazine’s website. of the Alvin Ailey ernacle, Dr. Nettie M. Dance Company.

Fred-erick from Orlando Christian Ministries , Bishop Karl (K.P.) Hardemon from the Washington Park Church of God, and high school sweet- Interweaving and facilitating the evening’s flow was one of hearts, Bishop Henry Leonard and Overseer Phyllis Bradshaw Orlando ‘s favorite radio personalities, Monica May from STAR 94.5FM, and Leonard. These men BET Comic View’s and women have Steffon Vann. served in ministry for 50-plus years, and are If the atmosphere of still leading congrelaughter, celebration, gations today. faith, family, and community could be packaged in a box The celebration of faith was coupled with an equally spec- with a bow, it would look and sound something like, “A Night tacular recognition given to businesses and leaders who to Remember.”

. . . the first annual Gospel Now Black Tie Gala created the near perfect blend of church and community, and faith and family.

6488 Currin Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32835

6

NOTE FROM

M

y son asked me a question the other day....have you always had dreads mom? It made me stop and think for a while about my hair styles over the years. How many hair styles does a woman of color really go through?

I personally think that I have had them all, my first memories of my hair was back in my teens. I had what they call in the islands “hard hair”... “not long but tall hair” my first memories were going to my mother’s hairdresser and having my hair pressed....when you walked out your hair had body and style, but having that pressing iron (a comb that was placed on a stove with Vaseline) glide through your hair, making it smooth was a type of torture. At any minute you could get burned and it seemed like it was in the same places every time - ear tips, back of neck and across the forehead, for all to see.

Then there was the “Jerry curl,” Michael Jackson had nothing on me with activator to keep the shine in. God help the head rest you came into contact with....I left a reminder that I was there every time.

Then PERMS or Relaxer (dreaded words) women have been known to take time off of work for a perm. Sitting in the chair with the horrible smelling chemical in your hair... having those famous word spoken to you - don’t worry about the burning “the longer you keep it in the better it will look” - think again - don’t do it! Painful - but that’s the process we

How many hair styles does a woman of color really go through?

Guyana American Cultural Association of Central Florida Christmas Party Dec 17th at Spring Garden Restaurant Maguire Road Winter Garden , FL Jamikin Me Krazy Reggae, Soca, Dance Hall Dec 17th at 5688 International Dr .

Orlando , FL 32819 Barbados Alliance Coalition, Inc (BACI) Presents Caribbean Style Friday December 17th, 2010, 8:00pm -1:00am at the Episcopal Church of the Atonement Hall.

4401 W. Oakland Park Lauderdale Lakes, Fl 33313 ‘A Fashionable Evening’ from Break Away Moments ‘Forever Paradise’ Design Line Friday Dec. 17th, 2010, 5:30pm - 8:30pm ‘Things & Fashion’ boutique 152 Lake Ave Maitland, Fl. 32751 (In The Villages Plaza at the corner of 17-92 and Lake Ave. ) CBA- CF Tropical Holiday Party Saturday, December 18th · 7:00pm - 11:30pm 501 E LIVINGSTON STREET DOWNTOWN ORLANDO

Parang Soca Parang Party Saturday, December 18th at 8:00pm - December 19 at 3:00am go through to have straight hair -with body. Within six weeks Timehri Banquet Hall or less depending on if you work out a lot - you’re like an ad- 7371 W. Colonial Drive dict back for your fix.

XMAS Spectacular Vol. 5 I have even gotten up early on the weekends to head uptown Saturday, December 18th at 9:30pm - December 19 at 12:30am MELA ROOM to the Bronx, New York for the “African Ladies” to braid my 9677 S. ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL hair. On your first time - remember two key things - bargain onprice, and never, ever say you are not tender headed. You St Lucia Association's Christmas Social & Membership Meeting will pay for those words later...as they transform you with an Saturday Dec. 18th, 8:30 pm - 12:00 am at Sunquest Hall instant facelift and you leave with slanted eyes your eyes trans- 1044 Plaza Drive Kissimmee Fl formed by the pulling of your hair against your scalp.

My favorite style for over ten years was the ponytail. The ponytail hair style left a permanent dent in the center of my head plus the pins to keep this human hair attached left their own dents. So many styles... “pineapple, finger wave, twist, wigs or having a full head braided then weaved.

For over three years my husband (boyfriend at the time) didn’t know I had a weave. As I told you in an earlier article he’s an Indian man from Guyana. Until then, he just thought that I had “good, long hair” until one day when my hairdresser couldn’t come to touch up my hair and it was looking terrible. Like an addict, I had to fix it at any cost. I asked him to cut the stitching out but not the hair...to remove it. The look on his face was priceless, his hands shook...I swear he almost died. I don’t think he even knew it was possible. After more than an hour he was able to remove it...at the time, I had shoulder length hair but liked the thickness that weaves added to my hairstyles.

Since then he has always asked me whenever we come into contact with a women...is she wearing a weave? I think that I have traumatized him for life. We as women go through so much to look beautiful, have you ever noticed how you feel when you do your hair. Your self-esteem changes, you feel confident and sexy. Hard to imagine that a little thing as your hair can make you feel better about yourself. Remember the expression “your hair is your beauty” I know it’s true despite how much we’d like to think we’re better than that.

Bhakti Sargam - Florida Edition SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19th, 2010 OLYMPIA HIGH SCHOOL 4301 Apopka Vineland Road Orlando, FL 32835 Doors open @ 4PM - Concerts Begins @ 4:30 pm Island Beat’s 6th Anniversary & Mad Hatter’s Party Saturday Dec. 25th, 2010 Christmas Holiday Party Dec. 24th, 2010, 8pm to Christmas Morning Timehri Banquet Hall Night of Elegance Dec 31st at The Penthouse at Legends 1315 South Orange Avenue Orlando , FL USA 32806 New Year’s Eve Dance Dec 31st at the Mela Room 9677 South OBT Elegant New Years Eve Gala Dec. 31st, rom 9:30pm Spring Garden Restaurant 1575 Maguire Rd Ocoee, FL Orlando Caribbean Domino Association’s New Year’s Eve Ball Dec. 31st, From 8pm Timehri Banquet Hall

7

+ +

hef's orner

I

n the Caribbean we have some recipes that we have to make at Christmas time...I stayed away from those recipes, as people make then in different ways and I know that it will cause people to stop me in the streets to complain that I didn’t do it correctly. Since I’m not an enthusiastic chef at the best of times I won’t have an argument for any of the recipes.

So here are my Christmas picks - Sorrel, Glazed Ham and Banana Bread. I know some of you were expecting recipes for Pepperpot and Fruit Cake but I figured if you like to eat them, you’re accustomed to the way your family makes them - so I challenge you to ask your parents, aunts, uncles and or grandparents for their recipe - as the taste you know, is the best version of the recipe. Have a Merry Christmas...Guenet!

Sorrel Ingredients * 5 to 6 (1-inch) slices ginger * 1 cup dried sorrel leaves * 1 tablespoon cloves * Brown sugar * Red wine sherry, optional Directions Let cut ginger sit for 2 to 3 hours. The longer it sits the stronger it becomes. Boil ginger in 2 quarts of water. Once water is boiling, add sorrel and cloves. Boil for 30 minutes. Strain and add sugar and wine, to taste. Chill and serve.

Banana Bread Ingredients * 1 cup granulated sugar * 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature * 2 large eggs * 3 ripe bananas * 1 tablespoon milk * 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon * 2 cups all-purpose flour * 1 teaspoon baking powder * 1 teaspoon baking soda * 1 teaspoon salt Directions Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Butter a 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan.

Cream the sugar and butter in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

In a small bowl, mash the bananas with a fork. Mix in the milk and cinnamon. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add the banana mixture to the creamed mixture and stir until combined. Add dry ingredients, mixing just until flour disappears. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Set aside to cool on a rack for 15 minutes. Remove bread from pan, invert onto rack and cool completely before slicing.

Glazed Ham Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours Serves: 15-20 INGREDIENTS: * 1 lb. (5 kgs) ham * 1 bottle marmalade * 2 tsps. grated orange rind * 2 cups fresh orange segments * 5 medium ripe bananas * 2 Tbsps. fresh lime juice * 1/4 cup lightly packed brown sugar * 15 whole cloves * 2 Tbsps. vinegar METHOD / DIRECTIONS: 1. Bake ham in preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F, (15 minutes for each pound).

2. In a saucepan over low heat, heat marmalade until it is of a syrupy consistency.

3. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon, remove marmalade from heat and blend in orange segments, banana slices and lime juice.

4. Spoon mixture over ham 15 minutes before it is finished baking.

5. In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and vinegar, brush this over ham. Bake ham for a further 15-20 minutes.

8

FOOD SAFETY PROFESSIONALS www.trainingbykash.com

email: trainingbykash@cfl.rr.com

5 Year Food Safety Manager Certification Card 3 Year Food Handler Certification Card Alcohol Awareness Card (Responsible Vendor) Class and Exam Available in 7 languages at 2 locations Onsite service also available for your convenience

Kash D. Ramnarain CPFM, CFSP Certified Instructor & Administrator 3675 Atlanta St. Cocoa Fl. 32926 Tel: 321-637-3309

Contact us: 9484 S. Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, Fl. 32837 Tel: 407-467-1659 Fax: 321-978-0300

Celebrating your own

By Natasha Walrond

person, but I would not hide the abuse from others. I would speak out at the onset of the physical abuse when my head rlando based “Breakout” author joins “Break the Silence, was busted,” she noted.

Say No to Violence” rally in Guyana.

Boodram joined Guyanese at the Georgetown Cricket Club on Guyanese born Sukree Boodram, who has been living in Cen- November 25 to stop the violence against women and children tral Florida for some 21 years, returned to Guyana at the end under the banner “Break the Silence, Say No to Violence”. of November to be part of the International Day for the ElimiSeveral organizations have partnered to launch the 4-day event nation of Violence Against Women observances. including Red Thread and Kids First Fund and asked Boodram to share her story Violence against in order to emwomen and chilpower women. dren is considered the most pervasive “I am honored to human rights violasupport my country tion and Boodram, in this epidemic. an abused victim, This is now how I has chronicled her plan to spend the experience in her remainder of my first book “Breakout” life on this earth. which will be My goal is to help launched here in the one person. AnyUnited States early Press Conference at Pegasus Hotel, Wednesday November 24th, 2010. thing above that is next year, with a From Left: Stella Ramsaroop, news reporter; Stella Says; Varshani Singh, Kids First; a blessing.” separate launch in Diana Madray, IMRARC; Luke Daniels, Counselor for Perpetrators of Abuse; Guyana.

Sukree Boodram, Survivor of abuse and speaking out.

Breakout is exShe said that the inspiration behind the book “came from the pected to be completed by April 2011, with its second part learned knowledge of the symptoms of the disease of alcohol- already being planned and penned “this book ends when my ism and how it impacted me and my family. One of the most abuser left following the divorce. The next book talks about profound things I learned is that I cannot cure it, I cannot con- my emotional healing from years of abuse, it will come out trol it, and I did not cause it, but I can contribute to it by en- within reasonable time of Breakout’s release. This second book is a joy to write. It is about how I was able to turn around and abling it.” make the life changing decision to help others, including She hopes that through her writing, abused victims, spe- myself and my children. It is my book of faith and hope,” cifically women would make better decisions to take a Sukree says, insisting that the book’s aim is not to degrade stance against such abuse, unlike her choice to remain in anyone or for her to gain financially but to change the lives an abused marriage for more than 20 years with the hope of abused victims. that it will change.

Breakout is being published by Create Space, an Amazon “If I had a chance again I would still fall in love with the same .com Company.

O

Take the time to call your Senators to say you support the Dream Act!

C

ongressional procedure is a bit crazy and certainly confusing, so people are prob ably feeling puzzled about what happened in the Senate earlier with the Dream Act. The basics are this: The Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid wanted to buy some time for a DREAM Act vote because there are still some Senators who are wavering on their votes. He moved to “vitiate” the cloture vote twice – which is a fancy way of saying not have the vote. Both times, his move was rejected.

be law by the end of the lame-duck session.

If you’re still confused, please know that the bottom line is this: this is a good thing. A supporter of the Dream Act recently summed it up this way: "All in all this gives DREAM a better chance in passing, especially when considering that there are Senators on the fence who do not want to be targeted and be in the spotlight twice. And obviously this gives advocates, activists, and you more time to call and ask that DREAM be supported."

He then moved to “table” the vote, until the Senate could take up the House version of the bill that was passed. That motion passed with 59 votes, which means the House version of the bill will be voted on later in the Senate.

Keep up the fight– keep up the phone calls! As an immigrant community we need to do this for the future of children in our community. Do this for every Caribbean child who is illegal and can't continue their education after high school - we'll have Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Sen. Dick Durbin, a bunch of people from our community not fulfilling their pothe No. 2 Democrat in the upper chamber, said in a joint tential - if this bill does not go through. Do this for them - Call statement that they will work with House leaders and the your Senators and get the Dream Act passed! administration to ensure that the bill, which would carve out a path to legalization for hundreds of thousands of for- Your Senator: 866-996-5161 eign-born youngsters brought to this country illegally, will Key Senators: 866-587-6101

9

Reggae Singer, Ritchie Stevens launched his new album “ Reggae Evolution� at My Island Jerk Spot.

The Jerk Spot is a new Caribbean restaurant located at 3404 W. Vine Street, Kissimmee, FL S34741

10

Shym Ali, Ajay Manieram, Hakim Bacchus, Rocky Jawahir and Tony Kissoon at the FSCA Presentation Dance and 10th Anniversary Celebration at the Mela Room

The cricket was interesting but the members of the Jamaican Cricket Team and the DJ certainly enjoyed Caribbean American Passport

11

New Destiny’s Business Ministry

T

he New Destiny Christian Center Business Ministry eight months ago by Janet Green of Jamaican Global Throwdown Catering Service. The Ministry is divided into two segments an - Entrepreneur Ministry and one for Current Business Owners. These teachings are open to the public and are not designed to benefit only NDCC members

SCORE, SBA, BBIF, Minority Certification and Preparing individuals as Christian Business Owners by combining the Spiritual, Mental, Physical, and Tithing concepts.

The Current Business Owner’s Ministry is designed to navigate business owners through networking with other local businesses and tapping into government resources. Janet Green spoke to Caribbean Passport about the ministry and said "we work to strengthen our involvement within the community through tithing our talents. We create commerce, through events designed to nurture relationships among members, and by developing strategic initiatives for business and kingdom growth."

The Entrepreneur Ministry is designed to educate individuals who have not yet established a business about the steps they need to take to start a new business. During the seven week course they focus on: Business Planning, Types of Business Insurance, Legal Structuring of your business, Balance Sheets, Business Name Registration, Location Selection, Employer’s responsibilities to employees, hiring and maintaining the right workforce, techniques So far the Ministry has had two Graduating Networking Cerfor successful Business Networking, tapping into government re- emonies with a total of 35 graduates who have gone on to sources, utilizing resources such as Disney Entrepreneur Center, start their business.

Some of the Attendees at the New Destiny Christian Center Business Ministry's Networking Event.

TTAC Talent Competition TTAC is looking for kids with talent!

Ages 8 -17 years January 16, 2011 From 3- 8pm Rotary Club Kirkman Road Door $10.00 For further information call 407-234-5047

12

Festival of Cricket - 20/20 Night Cricket

Guyana Galaxy wins 20/20 competition. Commissioners Linda Stewart and Bill Segal got the games started. Photos by F2Pro Photography.

F

lorida Cricket Conference just completed their first 20/20 night cricket tournament in Orlando at the McCracken Field.

For cricket fans it was four nights of glorious, exciting, top quality cricket. This event showcased the best of Orlando ‘s cricket players representing Countries as far away as India , Pakistan , Jamaica , Guyana and many other small islands of the Caribbean . Participants and spectators alike praised the organizers for the level of professionalism and the atmosphere presented during this four day/night event. I experienced this event first hand and it took me back to the glorious day of cricket at Bourda in Georgetown Guyana - the music, the food, the crowd and of course -the ball by ball commentary from the near-by spectator who claims to know everything.

The final game brought the Caribbean All Stars up against the Guyana Galaxy for the top prize and bragging rights. It was a close and exciting game. The Caribbean All Stars opened with 121 runs off of 20 overs. The Guyana Galaxy started slow and steady, but started slipping around the 11th and 12th overs. However, thanks to some steady batting by the middle order batsmen the Guyana Galaxy team finished strong in the 19th over.

Congratulations to the Guyana Galaxy team, the Caribbean All Stars teams and the other participants for a great exhibition of our beloved game. Congratulations must also go out to the Florida Cricket Conference and their sponsors for a very well organized 20/20 tournament.

Florida Softball Cricket Association’s 10th Anniversary

O

n Saturday December 11th the Florida Softball Cricket Association (FSCA) hosted their 10th Anniversary Celebrations and Presentation Dance at the Mela Room. This event was attended by more than 500 players, friends, family and supporters of the FSCA. It was an exciting evening of reflection and acknowledgement of the players, supporters and sponsors.

Attendees were given an opportunity to experience the years and memories of the first 10 years of FSCA. FSCA speared no expense in its efforts to recognize the players, umpires and supports that helped build FSCA to be one of the largest, if not the largest, Softball Associations in the USA. Players were recognizes for most catches, most wickets and most runs; while teams were recognized for most discipline, most runs in a season and most wins.

chubby, plantain, and slim; just to name a few – he was hysterical. The high light of the evening was truly the awards ceremony; every category was recognized and everyone appreciated their individual awards and achievements. The team that seemed to dominate during the 2010 seasons was “The Dream Team” it seemed like every category was dominated by members of the “Dream Team” and the grand award finally did go to the Dream Team for winning all three seasons. Team captain, Ajay Manierram and vice-captain Rocky Jawahir were extremely proud of their teams and proud of their achievements – they are also the opening batsmen.

Congratulations to all the players, umpires, supporters of FSCA and the executive members – Hakim Bacchus (President), Tony Kissoon (Events Coordinator), Rex Jaiwan (Treasurer), Daniel Sadeo (Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee), Shym Ali The master of ceremony for the evening was FSCA’s statistician (Secretary), Ryan Jaffarally (Statistician) and last but not least – Ryan Jaffarally, and he was a character, he referenced play- Leema Jiwan (Events Committee) for 10 proud years of softball ers, managers, and everyone possible by ‘false names’ like cricket in Florida.

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

13

Buju Banton wins an appeal J AMAICAN Reggae star Buju Banton, today won an appeal against an order which denied him the right to perform on a concert on January 16.

The concert, dubbed ‘Before The Dawn’, will be held at the Bay Front Amphithe-atre in downtown Miami and will feature Banton and other prominent Reggae artistes.

The concert is being produced by Rockers Island.

Banton, had applied for permission to perform at the concert on November 23 but his motion was dismissed by United States Judge Anthony Porcelli on the grounds that the artiste was a flight risk.

However earlier this month Judge James Moody cited that the issue had been already addressed when Banton was released on bail in October. David Oscar Markus, who is the singer’s lead attorney, was grateful for the ruling which will allow his client to earn much needed income to pay for his security detail which is costing Banton US$20,000 monthly.

Season’s Greetings from ...

Financial Solutions with Dahlia & Sandra Listen Live on Wednesdays at 2pm on WOKB Radio

Season’s Greetings from ... the St. Lucian Association. Thank you to the Caribbean Community for your generous support in the wake of Hurricane Tomas earlier this year.

Banton and his co-accused, James Mack and Ian Thomas were arrested last December after US law enforcement agents allegedly recorded them planning a drug deal. Mack and Thomas both pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. But Banton, who has repeatedly claimed he was not guilty, faced the court in a trial which ended in a hung jury.

He is now out on bail and scheduled to return to court for a second trial early next year.

Roberts & Roberts Property Management Services

Season’s Greetings from ... the Guyanese American Cultural Association of Central Florida.

From the Executive and Members of GACACF, thank you to the Community for your support throughout 2010.

Season’s Greetings from ... the Board and Members of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Inc. We enjoyed working with you throughout 2010 and we look forward to a continued relationship in 2011. Join us, as we work towards celebrating June as Caribbean American Heritage Month with a bang next year.

Season’s Greetings from ... the Management & Staff of Life Worth Living Pharmacy. Join us January 27th - 29th for our Grand Opening of our Pharmacy in Metro West and later in February for the Grand Opening of our Ocala Location. We look forward to being of service to you the Community.

Season’s Greetings from ...

Financial Solutions with Dahlia & Sandra.

Listen Live on Wednesdays at 2pm on WOKB Radio.

14

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.

Planning your trip to the Caribbean

T

ravelling to the Caribbean is as simple as buying an airline or a cruise ticket for most. But before packing your bags, be prepared for all the immigration requirements. Even if you are a U.S. citizen, there could be some surprises along the way.

So let’s look at what you need to be prepared for.

Third, a non-U.S. citizen who has been convicted of certain types of crimes may face deportation upon returning to the U.S. This may happen even if the person was able to enter previously without any consequences. Again, it would be important to consult with an attorney before departing the U.S.

For Non-Immigrants

People who are in violation of their immigration status, should consider the potential consequences of their departure. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, if someone has not been in authorized stay for 180 days, then his departure would trigFor U.S. Citizens ger a 3-year bar. Anyone who departs after 365 days of unauthorized stay, would be barred from returning for 10 years.

Due to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, U.S. citizens Some exceptions do apply. Given the serious consequences of travelling to the Caribbean must carry a U.S. passport book these bars, it would be wise for anyone who may be affected by or card. these bars to seek professional advice.

In addition, before making their trip, citizens should make themselves aware of any preparations suggested by the U.S. Department of State. The Department of State publishes any suggestions or warnings at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/ cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

Last, those who are in non-immigrant status (temporary status) in the U.S., whether it is for tourism, business or employment, may not be able to return if they do not possess an unexpired visa. Often, we confuse our immigration “status” with a “visa.” There is a distinction between the two.

The visa allows one to come to the U.S. The status deterFor Lawful Permanent Residents mines for how long the person may remain here. So for example, a visitor may have changed his status to an L-1 For non-citizens who are lawful permanent residents of the United (as an intracompany transferee for her foreign business).

States, there are various other considerations. First, as a gen- However, if the L-1 status holder travels abroad, she will not eral rule, permanent residents should not depart the U.S. for be able to return to the U.S., unless she has an unexpired L1 visa or another visa. more than 6 months. Otherwise, the Department of Homeland Security may deem their residence Accordingly, before travelling to the Caribbean, to be abandoned. If you do plan on being absent be prepared. Too many members of the commufor a longer period of time, consult with an experinity run into unexpected immigration problems enced immigration attorney about obtaining a rewhen travelling. Knowing the immigration reentry permit. quirements can prevent problems and pave the way for a successful trip.

Second, permanent residents should make sure that the length of their trip will not impact their eligibility for naturalization. Generally, an appliShahzad Ahmed, Esq. cant for naturalization must be physically present Partner in the U.S. for two and a half years (if applying Senior Immigration Attorney based on 5 years of residence); or one and a half NeJame, LaFay, Jancha, Ahmed, Barker & Joshi, P.A. year (if applying based on 3 years of residence).

189 S. Orange Avenue, Suite 1800 So, it is important to calculate what impact, if any, Orlando, Florida 32801 • Phone: (407) 245-1232 the length of departure would have on the contiwww.immigrationcounselors.com nuity of residence or physical presence.

Deadline Approaching for Haitian TPS U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) had previously announced that eligible Haitian nationals will have an additional 180 days to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), a relief program launched in response to the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti earlier this year. Thus, the new registration deadline is January 18, 2011. Any Haitians who may qualify for this important benefit must file by this deadline.

Fully Licensed and Insured

20% Below any Written Estimate for Painting & Restoration Work No Job too Small or too Large!

15

Join Us for Our New Year's Eve Party 8 PM - 4 AM See Ad Page 12 for Details.

16