November Issue

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NEWS MAGAZINE

Christmas Curry Duck or Duck Curry?

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s it more Cultural than Religious in the Caribbean Community?

Do you welcome the Christmas Season by breaking down your house - Cleaning it from top to bottom? Stripping Curtains- buying new ones?

Scrubbing walls, tumbling over chairs and beds to clean underneath? Do you shop for gifts for family all over the world, scheduling the barrel pickup to get to the Caribbean before Christmas Day? Then you’re a Caribbean Person and Christmas is Cultural. In Guyana during the week between Christmas Eve and New Year, people slow down and just socialize. Yes, they force the employers to give them a paid vacation. Beginning from around the 18th of December anything you needed urgently is not getting done until early in January.

In the spirit of the Islands, Caribbean American Passport is bringing Caribbean Christmas Marketplace to you. We’re kicking off the season of liming on December 18th. So clear your calendar, come out to 6488 Currin Drive in Metro West and relax with a few friends, drink a beer, sorrel or gingerbeer - listen to some Caribbean Christmas music. Shop if you feel like - but make it clear that the Christmas Season has begun and you’re stopping to enjoy it by slowing down for Christmas Caribbean style - compliments of Caribbean American Passport.

Competition Spices up Orlando

On right: Some of the Contestants for the Curry Duck Curry Competition

On left: Kash Ramnarain with his duck ice sculpture at his booth

On right: Part of the Crowd at the curry duck curry competition

On left: Curry Duck Curry Winner Indra Persaud Celebrating her win with family and friends

See story on page 5

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L I F E S T Y L E

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ow! If months had themes or nicknames, November’s would be food! From Diwali to Eid Ul Adha to Thanksgiving - they all incorporate food into the celebration. I’ve eaten sweet treats that I haven’t tasted since I left Guyana. At the Curry Duck Curry Competition we ate fudge then bake and salt fish then coconut water, then more fudge then green mango with salt and pepper then fresh cane juice to cool our mouths down.

All within 1 hour. Shameful I know but oh so good!

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

go to a few - you’ll start seeing the familiar faces of the Caribbean People of Central Florida.

I want to take the opportunity to encourage you to get involved in some way - whether it’s as a volunteer or visitor, the people who work hard to keep your culture alive here need your support and encouragement. Share their events with others, take your family and friends out and introduce them to the Caribbean Restaurants in your area. We’re a crazy mixture of races, cultures and religions but geez we I have thoroughly enjoyed the ride between newspaper is- combine to make a fantastic, interesting beautiful Caribsues - in October I attended three different and special bean Culture.

Diwali shows. The political candidates were pounding the pavements and Caribbean American Passport was a Part- Whether we’re hoping that the light of Diwali illuminates ner with the Central Florida Urban League to pass the mes- your year ahead or we’re wishing that Blessings be with sage on to voters. We were listed on WESH 2 News as a you on Eid Ul Adha or simply Happy Thanksgiving, enjoy Media Partner much to my excitement. Sam and I went this beautiful November. down to Carnival in Miami - we had a blast. On most weekends we dragged the entire family to event after event Remember you're part of our sometimes two to three events in a day just trying to keep up with Central Florida’s Caribbean Community and their EYE Team in the Community medley of events.

The Guyanese Association had a Financial Health Forum that gave very good information to homeowners in crisis.

Lady Dee had a very informative Health Forum as part of her Young People’s Forum, The Jamaican Association did a wonderful event - Orlando’s got Talent and Orlando did, I’m sorry I don’t have the photos of Leon Coldero’s 7 year old son Jayden dancing as Michael Jackson in his Thriller Costume, complete with smoke effects, but it was amazing.

The events this past month seemed to focus on the children and it was heartwarming to see that the children were culturally aware and involved. Speaking with several Commissioners and Mayoral Candidate Bill Segal who was at nearly all of the Caribbean Events this past month - they all said that they were in awe of the Caribbean Community’s efforts to keep their culture alive and pass it on to their children who live here. There are people who sit back and say there’s nothing to do here in Orlando...it’s because they don’t know. There is so much to do here that you just have to choose a few from our Calendar of Events and start going out. Most of them are very child friendly and once you

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send us your events on Facebook, tag us in your event photos, send us your articles.

Visit our website: CaribbeanAmericanPassport.com for media kits and upcoming events in the Community.

CAP Memberships are $50.00 per year and include: a monthly subscription to the newspaper, discounted rates on advertising and discounted admission to passport events.

For more information email: capassport@caribbeanamericanpassport.com

ORDER ONLINE www.auntyettarumcake.com Deadline Midnight 12/1/2010 for Shipping

OR Pick up on 12/18/2010 at the Caribbean Passport’s Caribbean Christmas Market Place 12/18/2010 10 am-4 pm

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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 ................................... Dharmendra Ramdehal ................................................... Sasha Watson ............................................... Natasha Gittens ............................................. Jackie Rampergas ...................................................... Val Duncan .................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Contributing Photographers ................................................. KP Singh ........................................... Sandy Isaacs ............................................. Lesly Canje Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations All rights reserved.

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Twelfth Annual FIU Eric Williams Lecture Focuses on Haiti Reconstruction - Draws Record Crowd

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ormer Jamaican Prime Minister P. J. Patterson was the recent speaker at the Twelfth Annual Eric E. Williams Memorial Lecture last Friday. Due to the catastrophic devastation brought on by the January 2010 Haiti earthquake, this year’s Lecture, “The Renaissance of Haiti: A Template for Caribbean Integration,” addressed critical issues pertaining to Haiti’s rebirth and the special responsibility of metropolitan countries to ensure it. The event was held at Florida International University’s South Campus, as part of its African & African Diaspora Studies Program Distinguished Africana Scholars Lecture Series.

Mr. Patterson is an engaging and selfeffacing lecturer, who spoke warmly about his topic with a relevant and thought-provoking delivery. He is presently the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) Special Representative on Haiti’s Reconstruction and authorized by its government to represent it in fo-

rums of this nature. Most notable that night, was his sound historical knowledge of Haiti’s - the then ‘Pearl of the Antilles’ - powerful 1791-1804 slave revolution. This was bolstered by a clear understanding of its potential and the current obstacles to achieving this. Mr. Patterson was firm in his assertion that history should not be repeated in the imposition of prescriptions for Haiti , whatever the context, but that the Haitian people, as one nation, should chart their own destiny.

As he succinctly put it: “Every crisis presents an opportunity.”

Former Jamaican Prime Minister P. J. Patterson

In the lively Question & Answer session that followed, Patterson fielded numerous questions from the record 340-plus crowd, including a suggestion from one student that it was France that should pay reparations to Haiti. (As a consequence of its rebellion, Haiti was forced to reimburse French planters for the loss of their ‘property’. The debt was not satisfied until the beginning of the Second World War.)

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6488 Currin Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32835

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Jamaica’s Police Commissioner visits Orlando

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ayne Golding, Central Florida’s Diaspora Represen-tative hosted a reception and information forum at the Rosen Plaza Hotel for Jamaica’s Police Commissioner - Owen Ellington. Accompanying the Commissioner was George Quallo, Senior Superintendent of Police and Head of the St. Andrew Police Division in Jamaica, and Vance Carter, Vice Consul from the Consulate General of Jamaica, located in Miami.

Mr. Ellington was appointed Commissioner of Police with effect from April 5th, 2010 to replace Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin who resigned last November. He is 47 years old, a past student of Glengoffe High School. He currently holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Resource Management and a Master of Science Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies.

Attending the reception that evening were local business owners, attorneys, and Local representatives from Association’s.

Commissioner Ellington with Wayne Golding and other leading members of the Caribbean Community in Orlando.

Maya’s Dance Studio Opening 2nd Location in Clermont

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aya’s Dance Studio, currently based in Orlando is expanding to include a 2nd location in Clermont to serve the growing needs of the Community out there.

Maya’s teaches Indian dance specializing in Classical and Filmy Indian Dance but they don’t stop there, they also fuse Indian Dance with Hip-Hop, Jazz, Modern Ballet, Contemporary dance style and West-Indian Soca and Chutney.

sociation and Give Kids the World Foundation. Our goal is to promote a bridge of communication between parents, dancers, and our community while encouraging a strong sense of selfconfidence, respect and pride in who we are and what we do.”

Maya Dance Studio has been doing just that - their male and female students range in age from 5yrs - 26yrs old. Not only are these dancers talented and artistic individuals, they are Established in 1997, literally out of a garage with two dancers, academically honor students. The Studio feels that as Honor Maya’s Dance Studio is named after the daughter of one of students and community leaders, their students know that academic educathe teachers Romeco. After Our dancers and their choreographies have captured the eyes of Bollywood Movie Stars, tion is first and foremost. In ortheir first professional dance Singers, Commissioners, Mayors and community leaders and audiences around the world... der to be a successful dancer, performance, it wasn’t long before membership went from 2, 20, 50 and to they know they must be a successful academic student. now over 100 students. Maya Dance Studio’s passion is dancing and they are known in the Community as willing volun- The teachers are of course the heart of the studio, you can teers at any event put on by the non-profits and associations. sense their pride in teaching Indian dance and creating They dance for free to promote the culture within our commu- meaningful dance choreographies. I was told that the nity, with captivating performances and gorgeous key to their captivating performances was that they held on to the old roots of Indian Dance while branching out costumes...they are always busy. to new techniques and music. They are Licensed, Insured Some of their performances have been at Walt Disney World, Diwali and Certified and are obligated to take a safety class, and at Lake Eola, Bollywood Concerts, and political and cultural events complete and obtain their CPR License as well. Maya Dance Studio can be found off Old Winter Garden Road here in Orlando, but also in England, Canada and New York. and soon in Clermont. The Clermont studio will be headed In a recent interview, Romeco told us “ Our dancers and their by Alicia a former Ballet dance student who has rounded choreographies have captured the eyes of Bollywood Movie Stars, that off with Hip-Hop and Filmy and Chutney Styles of Singers, Commissioners, Mayors and community leaders and Dance, she is a medical student who intends to be a peaudiences around the world but our greatest accomplishment diatrician. Look out for them at performances around was the opportunity to raise funds for charities such as: Shelter town and then later this month at their Bollywood Styled for the Homeless, Healthy Heart Foundation, Breast Cancer As- Desi Night Event.

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Adonal Foyle working to make a difference

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orn and bred in the Grenadines, former NBA player Adonal Foyle is working to make a difference back home and here in Orlando. Foyle started up the Kerosene Lamp Foundation (KLF - www.kerosenelampfoundation.org) in 2003 to empower at-risk youths to grow into healthy and well-educated adults. Why the name “Kerosene Lamp?” Foyle grew up on Canouan Island without electricity and the lamp was essential providing him light to study by at night and find his way home. The lamp serves as a symbol of his desire to brighten the path and illuminate dreams for kids.

ness in the classroom, and shows them how sports teaches them valuable life skills (focus, perseverance, teamwork, discipline) that will help them be better students.

Initially focusing on his home nation of St. Vincent & the Grenadines, over the years Foyle has expanded that vision to other countries in the Caribbean, including Trinidad & Tobago and Dominica, and the United States. Having played in the NBA for thirteen years, ten with the Golden State Warriors (Northern California) and three here with the Orlando Magic, he is a living testament to the power of sports to facilitate success, and this is the message he shares with kids. He’s not promising that every child KLF works with will go to the NBA, in fact it’s quite the opposite - he’s insisting that every child gets down to busi-

Learn more and show your support by attending Kerosene Lamp Foundation’s holiday party on December 7th in Downtown Orlando at the Citrus Restaurant, 821 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 from 5:30pm to 8pm. Visit www.kerosene lampfoundation.org for event details and RSVP to events@ kerosenelampfoundation.org.

In the Caribbean, Foyle fixes up basketball courts to give children safe places to play, holds Athletics & Academics Camps and is starting up a year-round mentorship program.

In Orlando he plans to fix up a series of basketball courts and implement a new program targeting at-risk children of Caribbean descent.

Tax-deductible sponsorships are still available, contact Shiyana Valentine at 925-699-9754 or svalentine@kerosene lampfoundation.org.

Curry Duck or Duck Curry?

Competition Spices up Orlando — Continued from page 1 —

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n Saturday November 13, thousands flocked to the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida to once again get their fill of the best Duck Curry or Curry Duck (depending on if you’re Trini or Guyanese), Caribbean music, dance, and culture.

barely beat Guyanese Kash Ramnarain who had an ice sculpture of a duck at his booth. Another Trinidadian Feraz Mohammed won the people’s choice for best duck curry - it was judged by the screaming of the crowd. Feraz was a clear winner...the crowd went crazy.

The 5th Annual Curry Duck Curry Competition, was named “Curry Duck Curry” due to a mixing of cultures - the Trinidadians say Curry Duck and the Guyanese - Duck Curry.

The competition for the best Curry Duck or Duck Curry depending on who you ask, is mainly between Trinidadians and Guyanese. This year there were 15 contestants, split just about

The Curry Duck Curry Competition is among the largest Caribbean food festivals in Orlando. The event has grown in size and popularity. It’s a popular event for families, all ages and cultures and brings the community together. Numerous performers graced the stage including Soca Elvis, Andy Singh, Diya International Dance Group and the popular band Supertones, the evening’s emcee was the talented Tigress who had the crowd riveted on her and screaming all evening. Children were encouraged to take the stage to dance and they did with enthusiasm.

There was an abundance of food - you could buy coconut water, green mango with salt and pepper, fudge, bake and salt halfway between the two countries with one Antiguan in the fish...you could also sample free food from the contestants once mix. The thousands who attended screamed their version of the judging was completed. It was a great afternoon for all the name whenever the question was asked - Curry Duck or and the explosion of Caribbean Food and Culture combined Duck Curry? to make this a fantastic event.

The 5th Annual Curry Duck Curry Competition, was named “Curry Duck Curry” due to a mixing of cultures - the Trinidadians say Curry Duck and the Guyanese - Duck Curry.

The first and second place winners this year are both Guyanese, I think that means that officially the name of this year’s competition should be Duck Curry! Indra Persaud won the first prize very clearly according to the Judges. Her prize was of course braggin rights but also $1000.00 cash, a trophy donated by Philip Scantlebury and a gold chain with a Duck pendant by Singh’s Jewelry World. Nadia Khan was the winner of the competition last year but won 2nd prize this year.

Trinidadian, Dave Lall came in Third and also won the category of Best Tent Presentation, in my opinion it had to just

The contestants all agreed that they participated in this event for the love of cooking and the opportunity to keep their culture alive. This event is done annually by Vani Chattergoon, a Guyanese who says she does it for the love of keeping the Caribbean Culture alive and active in Orlando, she said she would love to encourage businesses to join the Curry Duck Curry Competition in Orlando next year on November 12th to make it even bigger and better. So mark your calendars Orlando, for Curry Duck Curry Competition, November 12, 2010.

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Passion, Courage, Desire, Commitment and Sacrifice

By Samuel Roberts, President Central Florida Field Hockey Association

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n October 7th 2010 I received an invitation from a colleague to an event to be held on the following Tuesday, October 12th 2010 - an event like many of the other events I attend in Central Florida; was I wrong. I left work and arrived home at 5:10pm - the event was scheduled to start at 5:30pm with cocktails, followed by dinner at 7:30pm and the awards ceremony at 8:30pm. I rushed in changed and got myself ready for what I figured to be another one of those formal, social, networking (boring) events; I hurried my wife along - as always, and we arrived at about 6:45pm; 6:55pm to 7:15pm - cocktails and socializing with a few attendees and some inspiring young UCF students. 7:30pm to 7:45pm - chit chat at the dinner table....bla, bla, bla.

At approximately 7:55pm it started to unfold and unfold it did. From the national anthem being sung by what appeared to be a 10-year old with the voice of an angel, to the introduction of Richard Lapchick, and Richard DeVos - two amazing gentlemen who have done so much for the world of sport, and sports personalities that I will not attempt to put into words for I fear that my words could and would not do them justice.

doctors discovered a brain tumor that eventually expanded and crushed his optical nerve disconnecting his brain from his eyes. The stories of his grandfather, Al Reynolds, who played in the first ever Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs embedded in Charlie a passion and desire to play football. Charlie asked his mother if he could try-out for his middle school football team and he made the team. He played defensive lineman during his middle school years and is now playing nose guard on his high school team - ‘Being blind is a quality that sets me apart’ said Charlie.

Civil rights and the basic rights that we now have and that we sometimes take for granted were achieved on the backs of many, with the bloodshed of our forefathers and mothers. The awardees listed below stand out as stalwarts of their generation and heroes for all times; Wally Triplett, Tommie Smith, and John Carlos. Wally Triplett was a member of the 1947 Penn State football team that stood together, blacks and whites, standing strong to help in the fight to overcome the struggles and integrate blacks and whites on the football fields across America .

Tommie Smith and John Carlos.....what can I say, the image of them standing on the medals podium, at the 1968 Olympics during the awards ceremony, with their heads bowed down, their shoes removed, and their arms straight up in the air Tommie’s right hand and John’s left hand each covered in a black glove with folded fists. Not many people truly understood the symbolism and meanings behind their actions - the bowed heads symbolized the shame of America , the bare feet/ shoes removed symbolized the poverty of blacks in America, the right hand symbolized black power while the left hand symbolized the need for unity. When these great men took action to make a statement on a world stage no-one, not even them, understood the great sacrifice and direct impact that those actions would have on America , the World and their lives. They were stripped of their medals, withdrawn from the Olympics and sent back home; there was no hero’s welcome, no parade, and no real acknowledgement of the actions they had taken.

People who opposed the protest said the actions disgraced all Americans. Supporters, on the other hand, praised the men for their bravery. The men’s gesture had lingering effects for both athletes, from death threats to them and their families, and non-employment but the refusal to hire them. They suffered greatly; they lost almost everything.

The master of ceremonies, Phil Burton, did a great job keeping us involved and interested as we transitioned through the evening. Again I had no real idea what to expect from the evening and the awardees. Then it started to hit me with the story of Aaron Fotheringham and his unbelievable spirit and drive to overcome the obstacles of being confined to a wheelchair. The compassion of Captain Ed Nicholson and his passion for fly fishing and the subsequent genesis of Project Healing Waters, which aims to assist in the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active duty military personnel and veterans through fly fishing. Coach Glenn Johnson’s dedication and commitment to the community; he’s noted as a retired Chicago Public School teacher/coach who has never truly retired and probably never will. He has committed himself to a life of coaching both boys and girls the importance of sports and the importance of going to college. Coach Johnson has pulled together football teams by trying to out-recruit the nearby gangs. His winning record may not be documented in the sports world but more in the lives of the inner city boys and girls who’s lives he has touched by providing an alternative and providing the en- The final call, the final award for the evening was to Nelson couragement needed to take them to the next level; in sports, Mandela, Nelson Mandela and I say it again Nelson Mandela.

What a climax; the stories of his words, his actions and the life of careers or college.

Nelson Mandela will be told for generations and generation to We then transitioned into the courageous category of athletes come. I will not attempt to summarize the achievement of Nelson with Breanna McMahon, and Charlie Wilks. The inspiration, Mandela for attempting do so could truly be a lifetime’s worth of passion and desire to maintain your dream while faced with work. However the key unquestionable story and message that unbelievable physical obstacles - Breanna was involved in a encompasses the ideals of the National Consortium for Academcar accident at the age of 17, her legs was crushed accidentally ics and Sports (NCAS) was echoed in the Nelson Mandela story by her teammate at a fundraising car wash. After 18 hours of behind the recent block buster movie “Invictus” - it could start surgery the doctors were forced to amputate her left leg. These with the simple desire, the dream and commitment of one person events have not tarnished her spirit or her passion for the game and with that even the impossible becomes possible. of soccer. Breanna was previously offered scholarship to Brevard College in North Carolina , the College is still honoring that Sports has always been a part of my life, the friends I’ve made, scholarship offer and Breanna plans to enroll in the fall of the games I’ve shared and the memories I’ve created coupled with 2010 and hopes to be on the soccer field by her sophomore the stories I’ve experienced at this event shall serve as a reinforceyear. Charlie Wilks, what a story - at the age of 5 years old ment to my commitment to changing lives through sport.

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New Cricket Academy Opens in Orlando

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lorida Cricket Conference (FCC) is a non-profit organization in Central Florida. This organization was established in 2010 by professionals and cricket enthusiasts. FCC aims to introduce the game of cricket to the locals and to promote cricket at all levels, in particular, at youth levels, to develop the next generation of players who can successfully compete at local, regional, and national levels.

They have indicated that they are committed to developing the next generation of cricketers through its cricket academy in west Orlando, which is scheduled to start in spring 2011.

This academy will provide an intensive program of coaching through certified coaches. The cricket academy is slated to have the first permanently installed synthetic turf pitch in Central Florida.

Florida Cricket conference will host their inaugural event, FESTIVAL OF CRICKET, at McCracken Field over four days, Saturday November 27th, Sunday November 28th, Saturday December 4th, and Sunday December 5th.

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

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Qualifying games will be held on each of the first three days with the final game and prize distribution on Sunday December 4th. There will be two qualifying games on each of the first three days, the first starting in the late afternoon and the second in the evening under lights.

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hef's orner

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y Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes, This year after many Veggie Sides include a tray of cucumbers dusted with a hint of Thanksgivings spent all over the United States, we salt and pepper, Green Beans done in a little oil. will be staying home and hosting family and friends Drinks: White & Red Wine and Martinelli’s Sparkling over to our home.

Apple Cider.

Our Thanksgiving Day Menu will include Pepperpot for Breakfast with Hot Bread - bought at the store and then sprinkled Dessert: Aunty Etta’s Glorious Rum Cake and Cheesecake and with water and rebaked for a few mins. fresh baked bread aroma maybe Coconut Cake. (I draw the line at baking) and amazing taste. (Pepperpot is a Guyanese Christmas recipe but isn’t Thanksgiving the beginning of the Christmas Season!) The table will be set with an assortment of wine glasses, glasses, and plates all gloriously mismatched but pulled toLunch Menu - Honeyed Ham, Roast Beef, Turkey as the Meats, Side gether with the same color napkins and napkin rings. The Dishes are Macaroni & Cheese (made with wiri-wiri pepper for that house will be decorated for Christmas and we’ll start the Seahint of flavor), Rice and Peas (not Peas and Rice as I’m Guyanese), son off with love, food and family. Enjoy two of my favorite Cranberry Sauce, Stuffing, Sweet Potatoes and Corn Souffle. recipes below.

I’ll call this recipe Carolyn’s Corn Souffle, I’m not sure this is the way my friend makes it but our family fell in love with her Corn Souffle years ago and it’s a family favorite now in our home.

Carolyn’s Corn Souffle Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter 1 cup evaporated milk 2 egg yolks 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar 2 egg whites 1 can whole kernel corn Dash of pepper Directions:

Mashed Gingered Sweet Potatoes Ingredients: 2 lbs. Sweet Potatoes 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/3 cup orange juice or milk 2 teaspoons fresh ginger (about one 3 inch piece), peeled and finely minced 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt Directions: Preheat the oven to 400 Degrees F Bake the Sweet potatoes for 50 - 60 mins. or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.

Cream the butter in a mixing bowl, add the egg yolks, and stir Scrape the flesh out of the potatoes. Mash the potates. Stir in until well mixed. the remaining ingredients.

Add the sugar, corn, milk, and salt.

Beat the whites of the eggs and fold them in.

Place the mixture in a Pyrex baking dish and bake in a slow oven (275°) until browned 45 minutes to 1 hour.

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By Dharmendra Ramdehal Diwali or ‘Festival of Lights’ is celebrated by Hindus across the world on the first day of the lunar calendar in the month of October. The legends and stories told of Diwali is that it is the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This question was posed to a small sample size of Indo American children, all of whom are learning Indian music, traditions and culture at Nirvana School

of Indian Music, Winter Garden, FL. They were all specifically asked not to phone a friend or the family pundit, but rather to share their own impressions in an effort to protect the integrity of raw sample data collected.

Regardless of diyas or candles, front or back door, Diwali in America represents a Hindu festival celebrated by cleansing of the home and the mind, preparation of delicious foods and a celebration of thanks to Maha Laxshmi and Lord Ganesh for their blessings of light, good, prosperity and happiness.

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his Indian holiday has many different meanings.

In my opinion, I think Diwali is meant to clean and light up your hose with lights (diyas); a Hindu celebration and blessings from Lasxhmi and Ganesh. This festival also brings love and warmth inside the home. My family celebrates Diwali by going to our pooja room and praying to Mother Lasxhmi for blessings. Then we light diyas around our house. This is how my family celebrates Diwali.

— Avinash & Reshma Persaud

iwali means to me that you have to light up candles and I celebrate it by putting the candles in front of the statues of God and putting it on the entrance of the front door. We celebrate diwali by praying to mother Laxshmi to celebrate good over evil and to celebrate lord Rama’s return from 14 years of exile. We light up the diyas, we pray to mother Laxshmi, we clean our homes, put down the diyas in our house and outside the pathway that heads to our front door.

Students of Nirvana School of Music.

— Ambika & Pravaani Ramdehal

was born in Trinidad and moved to Florida at the age of four. I am currently a student of Valencia Community College. Diwali to me growing up in America meant and still does, a time for family to celebrate their religion, culture and love for one another. While I was a young girl growing up I can always remember my mother preparing a number of delicious foods and sweets for Diwali. As I became of age, I also started helping my mother in the kitchen learning the secrets behind every dish that we made. Lighting candles and saying prayers honoring Mother Laxshmi are an important part of celebrating Diwali. Honestly spending time with my family and friends is what I remember the most of all every year.

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iwali is the one of the most popular of all Hindu festivals, also known as the Festival of Lights. It is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi. I celebrate Diwali by lighting a couple diyas.

These diyas represent knowledge and my family places the diyas randomly. For example: One year a diya might be in my room and the next it’s upstairs. Every year I have a personal tradition where I take a bottle cap and make my own diya. I take a small cotton ball and splash it in ghee, make a nice wick and voila my own little knowledge lamp. Of course, there always a nice dinner to go along and a little bit of television and then I play tabla to an old Diwali cassette. Then it’s off to bed.

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— Marisa Harripersad

— Kishan Durjan

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iwali is the beginning of a new year. It is a festival that Hindus celebrate. During this time we welcome mother Laxshmi to our home so she could bless our household with wealth and happiness. To me Diwali is a blissful holiday. We as Hindus celebrate Diwali by lighting diyas and making sweets for our divine mother Laxshmi.

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or me Diwali is a celebration of light and happiness. This is when mother Laxshmi enters your home and gives her blessings of health and happiness to your family. We light a lot of diyas to give thanks to Mother Laxshmi for all her blessings.

—Serena Ramsewaksing

— Ramona Suba

The Obamas light Diyas for Diwali during their trip to India.

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iwali known as the festival of lights celebrates the New Year. This holiday is held in honor of Mother Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. We pray to her to bring good luck in the up coming year and years. People believe that Diwali shows the basic story of how good wins over evil. Diwali is a time where we as believers light “diyas” to welcome Mother Lakshmi into our home to take away our pain & hardships and bless us with happiness. My family believes that Diwali is a time to thank God for what we have and what good the new year will bring to us as well as our home.

— Alyssa Kowlessar

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Three Huge Diwali Celebrations in Orlando T

he Indo Caribbean Cultural Center recently held the 6th Annual Miss Diwali Florida Pageant. The event was held on October 22nd 2010 at the Pegasus Banquet Hall & Conference Center on Silver Star Road. Eleven young women vied for the title of Miss Diwali Florida 2010. These young women were escorted on stage by eleven eligible bachelors from our local community and for the first time one of those young men was crowned Mr. Diwali 2010. The 22 young men and women that participated in this pageant qualified as contestants based on their high academics achieve-ments and presentations. MISS VANDA SINGH who exhibited great poise and confidence and was the crowd’s favorite won the coveted title of MISS DIWALI FLORIDA Diwali Queen Vanda Singh with 2010. Miss Malini Bramdat and Miss Diwali King Ray Hussein Natalie Chetram were awarded the 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up titles respectively. Best Shalwar Award went to Miss Vanda Singh, Best Sari Award went to Miss Molita Sarwan. Mr Ray Hussain won the title of Mr. Diwali 2010.

The Diwali Show at Ocoee High School was about the kids. There was singing, dancing and the crowning of a Diwali Queen, in front of a packed appreciative audience.

Diwali Greetings We hope that this year - Diwali, the festival of lights brightened your life and the lives of those near and dear to you.

Greetings from the Management & Staff of Laparkan Shipping, 6100 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32808. Tel: 407-298-9887 Greetings from Victor J. Baker Regional Vice President of Primerica Financial Services, www.primerica.com/baker, Tel: 407-484-5692 Greetings from Ramjeawan Law Group. P.A. 23 S. Dillingham Ave., Suite.B, Kissimmee, FL. 34741. Tel: 407348-RUDY(7839) Greetings from Derric & Ronald Singh of Singh’s Jewelry World, 2155 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32804. Tel: 407-849-0002 Diwali at Lake Eola - Contestants on Stage

Greetings from ARK Business Solutions, LLC. www.arkbusiness.net

These photos brought to you compliments of Caribbean Supercenter who hopes that you enjoyed Diwali with friends and family.

Guyanese Prime Minister Visits Orlando

Above: Sandra Fatmi of the Jamaican American Association and Prime Minister Hinds.

On left: PM Hinds here with GACACF President Sammy Roberts and Guyanese Businessmen Philip Vasconcellos, Jan’s Party Rental and Brian Bacchus, Luxury Rides.

On right: PM at a dinner hosted by Circa Restaurant. Standing Lester Lall, sitting Morgan Strong with Prime Minister Sam Hinds.

PM was hosted by Caribbean Sun and their supporting sponsors.

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On left: GACACF donates school supplies to their adopted school, Rolling Hills Elementary. The President and Members of the Executive are seen handing over the supplies to Principal Lukeshia Miller.

On right: Guenet Gittens-Roberts & Sandy Isaacs share a light moment comparing their two Publications.

Caribbean American Passport at the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk

Life Worth Living Pharmacy Team walking for Breast Cancer Awareness around Lake Eola.

Youngest Member of the Pharmacy Team

New Orange County Mayor, Teresa Jacobs at the Joint Chambers’ Networking Event held at the Rosen Hotel

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Launching of Hylton, Adamson, Watson & Moore PLLC

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ver 200 friends, neighbors, members of law enforcement, attorneys, judges and family that joined us in Orlando for the launch of Hylton, Adamson, Watson & Moore PLLC on October 10, 2010 (10.10.10).

The firm’s partners are all young women Karlyn R. Hylton, Alisia M. Anderson, Sasha A. Watson & Conti J. Moore. Karlyn Hylton and Sasha Watson are both of Caribbean Heritage, Karlyn is Jamaican/Bahamian and Sasha is Jamaican.

There were toasts to success as people commemorated the beginning of this partnership that covers many areas of the law including, civil, criminal, immigration, family and personal injury. The firm’s primary office is located at 120 East Colonial Drive in Orlando, Florida, with a secondary office in Pembroke Pines, FL.

The Partners with their Mothers- Karlyn Hylton & Rosetta Rolle Hylton, Joy Titus & Conti Moore, Sasha Watson & Sheila Watson, Paula Jefferson & Alisia Adamson

Curry Duck Curry Competition

Moments In Time

Miss Orlando Caribbean 2010 with door prize winner, Shana Simpson at the recently held ‘Moments In Time’ event at Magnuson Grand Hotel in Altamonte Springs

DJ Phayze and Carter of Jammins Radio Show with one of the door prize winners, Lois Dunbar at Break Away Moments ‘Moments In Time’ event held on Oct. 23rd at Magnuson Grand Hotel in Altamonte Springs

On left: New Mayor of Orange County with Emmanuel Joseph of the Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce.

On right: Hari Singh of Lotus Financial with Shahzad Ahmed,Immigration Attorney

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Island Beat Radio Booth at the Curry Duck Curry Competition

Gyptian Wins 2010 Mobo Award For ‘Best Reggae Artist’

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ecording artist Gyptian received his trophy for the 2010 MOBO Award live last month at the Echo Arena in Liverpool, England. Awarded the ‘Best Reggae Artist of the Year,’ Gyptian took the stage to accept his prestigious statue in front of a packed house and millions viewing around the world.

“It’s an overwhelming feeling winning my first international award,” reveals an elated Gyptian. Gyptian was raised in the rural King Weston district in the parish of St. Andrew by his Christian mother Pauline and his Rastafarian father, Basil.

Neither parent dictated their son’s spiritual path but both encouraged his musical talent; thus Gyptian, who earned his nickname because he often wrapped shirts around his head in the style of an Egyptian pharaoh, sang at his mother’s Sunday morning church services and at the Sat-

urday night dances promoted by his father who owned the Sugar Stone sound system. He is currently touring Europe and took a quick break to attend the MOBO Awards, which was televised live on BBC 3. Gyptian resumed his tour across Europe and will also join Mary J. Blige for her UK tour, opening for her London and Birmingham shows in November.

Gyptian now heads to the Soul Train Awards on November 10 in Atlanta, Georgia, where he is nominated for “Best Reggae Artist” and will also be a featured performer during the show, airing on BET and CENTRIC on November 28 at 9pm.

The Music of Black Origin or MOBO Awards are held annually in the U.K. and is the first awards show in Europe to honor urban music. It attracts the largest primetime multicultural audience and reaches over 250 million people, worldwide.

Orlando’s own POWERLINE SOUNDS HD wins best DJ Sound Truck in Miami Carnival 2010

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owerline Sounds HD was launched in Orlando for Carnival 2001. Two brothers from Trinidad & Tobago DJ Dougla & DJ Roland originally from Dinsley Village imported a custom sound system built by the late great Dj. Lalo of Trinidad. The brothers brought their knowledge, talent, and love of music to Orlando , Florida. The business has expanded to now include Yvette Ramkissoon Public Relations/Marketing Director for Powerline HD who keeps the community informed of all upcoming events. Avin and Tina, silent partners who assist in all of the major carnivals and concerts. Bobby an expert in Sound Management, Dj -Audio, Rocky who works as a liason in Trinidad for Powerline.HD and Calvin and the S&Z crew who assist on the various projects and events.

Washington DC , to Tallahassee , Jacksonville , Orlando , St Petersburg , Tampa and Miami Florida , blasting peoples ear drums with their crystal clear sounds and heavy bass line. The most recent win was Miami Carnival on 10/10/10 where Powerline Sounds HD provided the sound system for one of the largest bands Generation X..The “Big Truck” came barreling down the road with speakers mounted in just the right position blaring the best in soca which kept the crowd and masqueraders jumping,waving and Palancing!!

Powerline Sounds HD has participated in various carnivals from

Powerline also just hosted their 10th annual Halloween Party “Night of the Living Dead.” They will be at the Annual Curry Duck Competition in November and then at the Annual Parang Party in December, ending the year with a huge Old Years Night Fete.

Dj. Roland, Dj. Audio1, Dj. Spice(Tampa), & Dj. Dougla

Generation X Masqueraders hanging out on the backstack wall of speakers

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Grenada, a new paradise

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or an idyllic, Caribbean getaway, many North American travelers are discovering a new paradise —Grenada. Lying at the southernmost tip of the Windward Islands, off the coast of Venezuela, there are three main islands that make up the nation state of Grenada — Grenada, Carriacou (the largest of all the Grenadines, pronounced Carry-a KOO), and Petite Martinique (pronounced Pitty Mar-ti-NEEK). Approximately 100,000 people inhabit Grenada. Carriacou - “The Land of Many Reefs “ — is home to approximately 8,000, and Petite Martinique has about 600 residents.

English-speaking and boasting some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful white sand beaches, elegant black sand beaches, stellar resort accommodations, a tropical rainforest, and a wide range of fun-filled activities, Grenada is an ideal destination for a tropical holiday. Grenada can be reached from the U.S. with Air Jamaica ‘s non-stop service from JFK/ New York , Delta’s non-stop service via Miami and by American Eagle, via San Juan , from cities across the country.

Grenada is a land that caters to all the senses.

Visitors can stroll along the island’s Carenage and enjoy the harbor views of one of the most picturesque cities in the Caribbean or walk through the

lush rainforest and hear the calls of tropical birds.

There is the feel of the warm sun and the smooth sand that comprises the island’s 45 white sand beaches and nine black sand beaches, and the cool waters of the crystal clear sea. Color abounds with the brilliance of the underwater coral reefs filled with tropical fish or in the flora that envelops the islands.

Known as “The Spice of the Caribbean “, visitors will be enticed by the sweet scents of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and cocoa wafting on the balmy breeze. In fact, there are more spices in Grenada per square mile than anywhere else on the planet.

Nutmeg is the most abundant spice, and Grenada produces about a third of the world’s supply.

Water sports are a main attraction. Scuba diving and snorkeling is offered at Grenada ‘s unique Underwater Sculpture Garden and other spots around the island. In fact, Grenada is known among divers for its famous underwater wreck, the Bianca C - the largest in the Caribbean . Sport fishing is another big attraction, with the catch of the day often including blue marlin, sailfish and yellowfin tuna.

For more information, contact the Grenada Board of Tourism at (561) 588-8176 or 1-800-927-9554 or visit their web site at www.grenadagrenadines.com.

Grenada is one of those places that once visited you’ll certainly want to go back time and time again. A stay at the Grenadian by Rex Resorts, a sophisticated, majestic hotel offers you the chance to taste all these wonderful fresh ingredients in a spectacular setting.

Visit www.rexresorts.com for direct bookings and to take advantage of 35% savings.

Spotlight on Val Duncan and Grenada

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had an extremely happy childhood growing up on a small island, where practically everyone knew each other, and your neighbors, aunts, uncles and tanties, had the right to discipline you when it was necessary.

Family, Community and Education are extremely important to me because I grew up in Grenada where my parents were very involved in the community. My father was an avid cricketer, and the manager of the local football and cricket teams— St. John’s Sports Club. My mother was a teacher who volunteered her time raising funds for St. John’s Anglican School and Church. She also loved to help her students, and volunteered to tutor them after school in order help them pass their Common Entrance Exams (CXEs), the exams required for entrance to a high school of their choice.

During my high school years, I was the captain of a local netball team, and spent time organizing games and competing with different teams around the island. Because of my family values and love to help others, today, while living in Central Florida, I find myself organizing charitable events to assist people in need both here and at home. Being one of the founders of GAECO (Grenadian-American Educational and Cultural Organization), I am always involved in assisting others. One of the charities that we support is the Grenada National Patient Kidney Foundation. I also serve on the Board of Directors of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida. I’ve been a Realtor for the past eight years—currently working with VIP Real Estate Group.

I love living in Central Florida because it’s a melting pot of cultures. Over the past 20 years, I have witnessed the blossoming of the Caribbean Culture as I enjoy my life here with my husband-an avid cricketer and professor of political science at a local community college—who is from Guyana, my daughter who is extremely proud of her Caribbean heritage and my son-in-law who enjoys all types of Caribbean foods. I also feel fortunate to be part of a wonderful extended family of friends from many Caribbean islands who have became my family.

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NOTE FROM

I

feel compelled to write this article, if not for you, for myself. It’s about the word that people don’t want to use “Foreclosure.” I wrote the date down in my diary -14th October 2010. At 9am that day I had to hand over my home to a Realtor. Just typing the words on this page leaves me with a lump in my throat.

Let me start at the beginning, seven years ago my husband and I sold a small home for a larger one because we had a growing family and the housing market was doing so well. We looked at a 4 bedroom 2 bathroom 2,000 square feet home and we loved it. As you know - like most men, my husband started right away “up grading” all by himself with me as his -unpaid helper but willing to learn. First we installed brick pavers down the driveway. Then marble tiles downstairs - I mixed the cement and he cut the tile, then we painted the exterior - up a ladder in 101 degree weather. Over the years we extended the back with a full size porch and we put in a fence.

Jump forward to Jan 2008. I’m out of work due to the economy, we missed two mortgage payments I spoke to the Mortgage company and said that I may need to “MODIFY MY LOAN.” They said no problem, and started the process - every two weeks for the next two years we sent in paper work - spoke constantly to Representatives, faxed everything they asked for, sent the paperwork over and over again when they said they didn’t receive it. During those two years we paid their modified amount of mortgage. They sent us letters asking for patience, stating that they couldn’t find a program for us but they were still working on it. We continued to make the modified payments.

Two months ago while still talking to us about modifications we were put into foreclosure and given six weeks to leave our home.

Caribbean Marketplace Hosted by Caribbean American Passport Experience the magic of Christmas in the Caribbean.

Enjoy a glass of Egg Nog with a dash of Rum, sample a piece of Black Cake or Rum Cake as you soak up the sights, sounds and smells that add festive flavour to a true Caribbean Styled Christmas.

FREE Admission We'll have a variety of vendors selling great gifts, toys for all ages, jewelry, clothes, home décor, and handicrafts. A large assortment of savory and sweet foods, drinks and candied treats. Enjoy Caribbean Christmas Carols, Fun Door Prizes and much more.

December 18th, 2010 • 10 am - 4 pm 6488 Currin Drive, Orlando, FL 32835 For more information go to www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com or call 407-421-8118.

Under the “Cash for keys program” we turned over our home to a realtor on October 14th. I prayed about it, cried about it and by then was resigned to it, on October 14th, we moved into a rental with everything we owned and I’m now trying to make it home. I am still in shock that after all the time money and work we put into our home -it took a realtor five minutes, a set of pictures of the property and a small check, and we had to walk away - Goodbye house. We paid $265,000 for a house which is now worth $75,000.

People find it hard to believe that I was being reassured by the bank that my loan was being modified, and that they still put it up for foreclosure - but a few days after we had moved out - the bank sent a letter stating that they had found a program for us and that we were approved for modification. On a foreclosed house? Did one part of the bank not know what the other part was doing? The yo-yo aspect of it was the hardest part of that two year struggle. It’s been a few weeks now, the kids love the new house, it’s much larger, the rent is half of our mortgage and we don’t have to do anything (which is an adjustment). The sadness of losing our home hasn’t gone away as yet but we have love, life, family this is only a house.

Who help yuh buy a big guts mule don' help yuh feed it.

Booths Available for $75.00 Each

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Hurricane Tomas Relief Effort Bulletin from CACCF Nov. 17th - Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce, Business After Hours - Circa Restaurant, Park Ave. Winter Park Nov. 19th: - Life Worth Living Pharmacy Open House, 2-8 PM 6488 Currin Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32835. (Metro West Hiawassee Rd. between Raleigh & Metro West Blvd.)

Nov 20th - Coalition for the Barbados Association of Central Florida 44th Independance Gala at the Rosen Centre Hotel 9840 International Drive, Admission $65.00 - Info Call 321-663-9654November

T

he CACCF Disaster Preparedness Committee has identified the Hurricane Tomas relief effort as one that needs Community Mobilization. According to Michael Auguste, President of the local St. Lucian Association Hurricane Tomas did extensive damage in St. Lucia and any organization that wishes to start collecting items should go ahead.

Mr. Auguste also stated that if any organization were in need of him to pick up any container he would do so. Arrangements are being made with the Customs department in St. Lucia to allow all hurricane donations to be duty free. The “Needs Lists” below is courtesy of Kristel Kouly and the Consul General from St Lucia.

The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida Nov. 21 - Carnival Fiesta, 11-6 Okeeheelee Park, 7515 Forest will communicate with the community when we get more drop off points and an updated “Needs Lists”. We thank each and Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach, Fl. Free every association, business and person that is willing to assist November 26th - Oldies Dance, Timehri Banquet Hall 7365 in this endeavor.

W. Colonial Dr. Orlando; Admission $5.00 - Food and Drinks Needs List - Hygiene Items including soap, Pampers [adults on sale and children],Tampons and sanitary napkins, Toothpaste and toothbrush Antiseptics, Hand Sanitizers etc.

November 27th - Post Thanksgiving Dance at Pegasus Banquet Hall 6394 Silver Star Road, Orlando; Admission $10.00 Drop Off Points Include: Cash Bar Nov 27th - Maya Dance Studio presents Desi Night 2010 Bollywood Live in Concert 5-10 pm Osceola Performing Arts Center - 3141 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Kissimmee, Florida 34744 November 27 & 28 and December 4 & 5 - Festival of Cricket T20 Night Tournament - McCracken Field next to the Citrus Bowl - Free Admission * Sunday, Nov. 28th Caribbean Night * Saturday, Dec. 4th India/Pakistan Night * Sunday, Dec. 5th Final Game and Prize Distribution December 7th - Kerosene Lamp Foundation’s Annual Holiday Cocktail Reception - Tribute to founder Adonal Foyle’s NBA Career - 821 N. Orange Ave, Orlando Mark Your Calendars for Dec. 18th from 10am to come out to Caribbean Christmas Marketplace. Get your dose of a true Caribbean Christmas. Free Admission. Come out, Browse and Buy your Christmas Gifts all to Merry Christmas Music - Caribbean Styled! For Booths call 407-421-8118

Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2010, 5:30 to 8 pm Citrus Restaurant 821 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 $15 minimum donation (Hosted appetizers & complimentary cocktail)

Please RSVP to events@kerosenelamp foundation.org

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CaribEuro Shipping 4101 El Rey Rd. Orlando, FL 32808 (407) 294-9119

Caribbean Insurance Services, LLC 10376 E. Colonial Dr. Suite 108 Orlando, FL 32817

Caribbean Super Center 5111 West Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32808

Life Worth Living Pharmacy 6488 Currin Rd. Orlando, Fl. 32835 (Corner of Hiawassee Rd.)

Tenders 12226 Corporate Blvd.

Suite 166 Orlando, FL 32817 (across from UCF)

U-Haul Center Gatorland, 14500 S Orange Blossom Tr. Orlando, Fl. 32837 (407) 448-2456 (right across from Gatorland)

The Diversity Network WOKB 1680AM - African American With Haitian Evenings and Caribbean Saturdays

Listen Live! 24 Hours per day - www.WOKBradio.com

Fendson Dorvilus won the Orlando’s Got Talent Competition presented by the Jamaican American Association of Central Florida.

By Fendson Dorvilus

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am highly involved in the community and our youth be-cause I feel if we don’t put in the effort into our youth now, we will lose them in this social world that is being washed away with the media and television junk they are exposed too. I am willing to reach out to one mind and heart at a time and do the same as my mentors did for me. Living in a single mother home who worked two jobs to raised my sister and I. I was blessed with role models that always told me to keep on pushing even when all the odds were against me. Why? Because they made sure to enforce the fact that I will always have a “Choice”. I was taught and expected the fact that I, A True God Fearing Man will always have a choice regardless how bad my life situations . I overcame obstacles one day at time with the help of Our Mighty Father above to become this man that I am today and will be each new day I am blessed to see.

Fendson Dorvilus President/Founder of ZoetryPoetry University of Central Florida Please go to www.zoetrypoetry.com to read Fendson’s winning poem. Read and post your magic at www.Zoetrypoetry.org— Black History, Poems, Powerful quotes, Facts and Current Events in Your Area For the World To See!!

Journey of Perseverance from Jamaica to America

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udolph recently told Caribbean American Passport that he wrote this book to "chronicle the events that persuaded me to step out on faith to leave my homeland of Jamaica. The book details my first five years in New York City, adapting to the American culture, some of which were dramatic, inspirational, humorous and suspenseful but entertaing. It goes through the various encounters I experienced with racial prejudices, drug dealers, con artists, the valuable lessons I learned from hanging out with the wrong crowd and doing the wrong thing. My youthful acts of indiscretion in an attempt to appeal to the ladies to obtain intimate affection. How I met, dated and married a beautiful African American girl and the adjustment we made for our cultural differences. It also goes into my reaction to my first experience in a Pentecostal church and much more. It emphasizes that trusting in God, being determined, courageous and not being influenced by negative news or people will ensure success."

Author: Rudolph

On right: author Rudolph Burke with his Book, Journey of Perseverance from Jamaica to America.

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INCAPACITY, DISABILITY OR DEATH: WHAT WILL I NEED? taining measures in the event of a terminal illness. It only states your desires with respect to medical treatment and does not grant anyone the authority to act on your behalf with respect to those ne of the biggest issues with redesires, nor does it address distribution of assets. It is important spect to estate planning, or as to create an Advance Health Care Directive to avoid aggressive I like to call it family planning, medical treatment and unnecessarily prolonged, expensive and for most persons is timing. Everyone is emotionally burdensome treatments. A living will is also an hampered by the proverbial question invaluable tool for avoiding family conflicts and possible court “when is the right time.” To that, my intervention if you should become unable to make your own advice is simple, start thinking about health care decisions. I recommend that everyone executing a family/estate planning when you are living will schedule an appointment with your doctor to go over most unlikely to have to deal with death or disability. It is by far much easier to develop rational and clarify the working meanings of the medical terminology and practical plans that effectively reflect our wishes and de- used in the document and to best understand the extent of medical treatment you are willing to undergo. sires when there is no sense of urgency.

By Sasha A. Watson, Esq.

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A parallel to that is the need to do family planning as early as possible in our lives and it does not require an estate in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Terri Schiavo’s case which made headlines across the world impressed on us the need to have an estate plan. However, few people are aware that Shiavo was only 26 when she suffered that devastating heart attack that left her a vegetable for 15 years, and destroyed the very fabric and union of her family.

The five essential instruments in any estate family plan are: 1) Will; 2) Durable Power of Attorney; 3) Health Care Power of Attorney; 4) Advanced Health Care Directive / Living Will; and 5) a Revocable Living Trust.

WILL. A will provides instructions for distributing your assets to your family and other beneficiaries upon your death. A will does not take effect until you die and as such it cannot provide for management of your assets in the case of disability or other incapacity.

Wills must go through the probate process and is a relatively costly mechanism to dispose of your big ticket assets, such as real estate, motor vehicles etc. It is ideal for passing on your personal items such as jewelry, crockery and other heirlooms to your beneficiaries.

REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST. A revocable living trust is an arrangement by which you transfer ownership of your property into a trust throughout the course of your lifetime. Without a legal dissertation, the trust allows you to control the management of your assets and financial affairs throughout your incapacity and after your death. It is revocable while you are alive and its instructions can be changed, however, after you die it is irrevocable and not open to changes. The revocable living trust is established by a written agreement or declaration that appoints a trustee to manage and administer the property of the grantor. The trust is a rulebook for how your assets are to be handled when you die. As the settlor, or creator of the trust, you can name any competent adult, bank or trust company as your trustee. Revocable living trusts offer several benefits including, avoidance of costly probate, privacy as it not filed in court like a will, lessen family disputes and disagreements as persons who protest can be expressly disinherited, reduction of exposure to estate taxes. Notwithstanding, revocable living trusts can be costly to create and administer yearly as there are requirements record keeping requirements, re-titling expenses, and administrative costs.

...start thinking about family/estate planning when you are most unlikely to have to deal with death or disability.

DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY. A power of attorney gives another person the power to act on your behalf. This person is generally referred to as your agent or attorney-in-fact. The power of attorney is durable in the sense that it will be effective through your incapacity and will only terminate upon your death. This instrument gives your agent to manage your financial affairs, including, but not limited to, handling bank transactions, accessing safety deposit boxes, buying, selling and managing real property, exercising stock rights, disposing of personal property, communicating with government agencies and filing tax returns. However, most financial institutions may not accept a third-party DPOA and will require you to execute the institution issued form.

Developing an estate family plan is not as daunting as it may seem. Depending on how many assets you have, it may take only a few hours of deliberation on who to appoint as your agents and less time to create and execute the legal instruments. However, we all need to act now to protect the assets we have acquired and to best help our families cope during our death or disability. Once you have crafted an appropriate estate plan for your needs, you should review it regularly so that it reflects life changes such as births and deaths that have occurred.

LET US HELP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY PLAN. Hylton, Adamson, Watson & Moore, PLLC, is available to assist you develop an estate plan that reflects your wishes and is appropriately suited for your family. If necessary, based on the size HEALTH CARE POWER OF ATTORNEY. This durable power of of your estate or your concerns, we can work with your acattorney for health care authorizes someone to make medical countants and/or medical providers to develop a fully integrated decisions for you in the event you are incapacitated. It is limited estate plan that meets your needs. to your health care wishes and should be discussed closely with Sasha A. Watson is a partner at Hylton, Adamson, Watson & Moore, the agent as well as your primary medical provider.

PLLC and practices in the areas of Immigration, Personal Injury, LIVING WILL / ADVANCED HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE. A Family & Civil Law. Ms. Watson may be contacted at 407-802-3223 living will reflects your intentions regarding the use of life-sus- or 120 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32801 (By Appointment Only).

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HOMES FOR SALE

Nice 2 story 4bds, 2 bath with 2 car garage.

Beautiful 2 story 5bds, 3 bath with 2 car garage.

Beautiful 5bds, 3bath 2 story with a 2 car garage.

Nice townhome 2bd, 2 1/2 bath with 1 car garage.

407-574-2481

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B O L LY W O O D LIVE IN CONCERT MAYAS DANCE STUDIO

SATURDAY TH

NOVEMBER 27 2010

5 PM TO 10 PM OSCEOLA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 3141 N. ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA 34744

407-230-7656 • 407-276-7696

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