October 2011 by caribbeanamericanpassport

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NEWS MAGAZINE

Former Orlando Police Chief Val Diwali Demings featured speaker at recent the festival of lights Women of Wisdom Conference

indus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, here in America and around the world, will celebrate the holiday of Diwali – the festival of lights on October 26th. This is a day when members of some of the world's oldest religions celebrate the triumph of good over evil. This festival is marked – by lighting the Diya or lamp. This lamp symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is a time for celebration, but it is also a time for reflection – a time when we remember that there are always others less fortunate than ourselves. This holiday reminds us all that we should commit ourselves to helping those in need. From the Management & Staff of of Caribbean American Passport News Magazine Happy Diwali.

See story on page 22

Center for Multicultural Wellness & Prevention Health Fair a success

undreds of people from the surround ing Central Florida counties of Lake, Seminole, Orange and Osceola received free screenings and information on how to access many state, county and city agencies on Saturday, September 10, 2011 at the Central Florida Fairgrounds. The event was put on by CMWP and several community partners. The former U.S. Congressman, Alan Grayson (D-Orlando) delivered the

keynote address at the Health Summit. Congressman Grayson commended the organizers of the event and said that he would be back to support the event next year. Also present at the Health Summit were State Representative Geraldine Thompson (D-Orlando), Commissioner Ronald Brise’ (Florida Public Service Commission) and Orlando City Commissioner, Daisy W. Lynum. State Rep. Geraldine Thompson (D-Orlando) said that

Continued on page 22

L I F E S T Y L E

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor

his month we celebrate Diwali and Hispanic Heritage month and we fight against Breast Cancer & Domestic Violence. It was tough trying to get all of the information into this issue about all of the upcoming celebrations. It was also the celebration of the last Carnival of the season popularly known as Miami Carnival and if you missed Miami Carnival, you missed a lot.

bus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.

CAP News Magazine, would like to congratulate the Hispanic Communty as they celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America,. We observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson.

Please look out for those photos in the next issue of CAP NewsMagazine, we will be creating a special Diwali issue that will feature all of the gorgeous Diwali Queens that performed in the competitions so far. That special will be out on Oct. 23rd. If you would like to send Diwali Greetings please contact me at 407-421-8118.

This is a time to reflect on the Immigration issue in Alabama and the other states preparing to follow their lead. This antiimmigrant stance is not only against Mexicans. It’s not a Latino problem,that we should look away from “To sin by silence when they should protest makes cowards of men.” - Abraham Only a Caribbean newspaper could write about Diwali, Carni- Lincoln. The immigration issue is a problem for all immigrants, val and Hispanic Heritage month in one paragraph. We’re and as Caribbean people we are immigrants in this country. celebrating all of that in this issue. At a recent Diwali festival Let us speak about the positive forces that drive many Carib- four of us stood together as the story of Diwali was explained. bean business people to continue growing their business even I pointed out that 1 person was Hindu, 1 was Muslim, 1 Chris- in this economy. We recently went to the Grand Opening of tian and the other Spiritual not religious. Everyone paid at- MT & Lady Dee’s Grand Opening of their new Gas Station on tention to the story despite their religon. This issue is filled Old Winter Garden Road and Fairvilla Rd, this month we’ll with our people, their celebrations and our culture. As usual I also be at Soiree the new Banquet Hall that recently reopened hope you enjoy reading it. on Silver Star Road.

Congratulations to Hari & Seeta Singh of Indian Horizon for getting their dream accomplished of a Cultural Center for The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anni- the Caribbean Community. Join CAP News Magazine there versary of independence for Latin American countries Costa on Saturday, Nov. 12th from 2pm - 5pm for the Grand OpenRica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In ing of the center. Plans are already in place for Yoga classes, addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days Senior Retreats and much more. All are welcome to the on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Colum- Grand Opening.

ubscribe to Caribbean American Passport News Magazine today. Get the news delivered directly to your door each month! For a limited time we are offering a one year subscription to CAP News Magazine at $25.00. This will also provide you with discounted admission to events, coupons for shopping at your favorite stores as well as updates on caribbean events coming up in our community. This Christmas Season give the gift of a subscription to CAP NewsMagazine to someone and we will personalize a card to them from you in that gift package.

The ladies of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce at the Women of Wisdom event with Val Demings. Popularly known as WOW, the committee of six, headed by Board member Mary Ann Sheriff, hosts events for women quarterly at Circa Restaurant as part of an outreach arm of CACCF. For more information go to www.caccfl.com.

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GGR Marketing & Public Relations 1969 Alafaya Trail, Suite 133 • Orlando, Fl 32828 407.421.8118 • guenetroberts@yahoo.com Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Editor .............................................................................Audrey Johnson Contributing Writers: ................................................. Natasha Gittens ....................................................................................... Roger Caldwell .......................................................................................... Sandra Fatmi ............................................................................................ Gail Seeram Contributing Photographers ....... ................................. Samuel Roberts ................................................................................................ K.P. Singh Distribution .................................................................... Samuel Roberts Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

By Nouchelle Hastings

omestic violence and emotional abuse are behaviors used by one person in a relationship to control the other. Partners may be married or not married; heterosexual, gay, or lesbian; living together, separated or dating. Examples of abuse include: ■ Name-calling or putdowns ■ Keeping a partner from contacting their family or friends ■ Withholding money ■ Stopping a partner from getting or keeping a job ■ Actual or threatened physical harm ■ Sexual assault ■ Stalking ■ Intimidation

lence is recognizing the warning signs. Personal signs - at first I took the stalking to be flattering that someone just wanted to know my every move. The Honey Moon phase - ended three weeks after we said “I Do”. the first blow of many over a five year, life altering abusive impact. Lesson Learned - one of many, that we have for lack of better terms called it abusive relationship, but it isn’t a relationship at all, its a living nightmare and should be viewed as such. Seeing it as a relationship keeps you tied to your abuser. Please remember that Battering is a choice. It is used to gain power and control over another person. Physical abuse is only one part of a system of abusive behaviors.

MANY VICTIMS DO LEAVE AND LEAD SUCCESSFUL, VIOLENCE FREE LIVES — I am one of them.

Violence can be criminal and includes physical assault (hitting, pushing, shoving, etc.), sexual abuse (unwanted or forced sexual activity), and stalking. Although emotional, psychological and financial abuse are not criminal behaviors, they are forms of abuse and can lead to criminal violence. The violence takes many forms and can happen all the time or once in a while. An important step to help yourself or someone you know in preventing or stopping vio-

Nouchelle ‘Shelly’ is happily married to Oliver Hastings who has provided a safe and loving environment for their blended family. “Life has a restart button”.

■ Domestic violence is not a problem in my community. ■ Domestic violence only happens to poor women and women of color. ■ Some people deserve to be hit. ■ Alcohol, drug abuse, stress, and mental illness cause domestic violence. ■ Domestic violence is a personal problem between a husband and a wife. ■ If it were that bad, she would just leave.

that are WRONG

Shelly is an author, radio host and community organizer. For more information on her please visit www.girlwhatdo youbringtothetable.com

Governor Scott’s Budget Has Serious Shortfalls ernor that cash flowing into the state treasury from gas taxes is slowing down. It is estimated that road building and other work projects could lose $93 million from shrinking federal, state, and By Roger Caldwell local tax collections. Some transportation officials are urging lawhen Governor Scott made makers to consider a major overhaul of the tax code, and move his budget for 2011/2012, the state to some form of mileage tax, as opposed to fuel charges. everyone knew that Florida was experiencing a deficit from The state is also struggling with its level of cash for new con$4 billion to $5 billion. In order for struction and repairs at schools, colleges, and universities. State the governor to balance the budget, economist are predicting that the state will only have $113 he was going to make the tough de- million in building cash next year, which is down $267 milcisions, and the state would receive lion from what had been expected. its estimated forecasted tax revenues. The actual tax revenue for 2011 is behind the economic forecast, and is threatening As a result of the recession, more Florida businesses are closing, and more home are not being occupied. When homes are not octhe state’s ability to pay its bills. cupied and businesses are closed, the state cannot receive utilities The governor and lawmakers say they are not worried about a taxes, and the state cannot issue bonds for school construction. deeper budget collapse, but I wonder what they are saying behind closed doors. Amy Baker, the state’s chief economist says, Even though the governor and the lawmakers are saying that “We’re just seeing the level of economic growth that we expected they are not worried and the state’s chief economic advisor is falling back a bit. It’s been like this since August. Consumer con- standing by her outlook, everyone is scrambling for more cash flow. There is a major shortfall in almost every area of the state’s fidence has been down, but it can also turn on a dime.” budget, and things are getting worse, instead of better. It appears that Ms. Baker believes that the Florida economy is getting ready to kick in, but last week a state Senate panel was Governor Scott has made cuts in public health, k-12 and early told that a $108 million shortfall has developed in the state’s education, higher education, state workforce, and hiring freezes, judicial system. This is the second time this year that legislators but it looks like that will not be enough. As we continue to rob will be forced to tap into budget reserves to keep courts operat- Peter to pay Paul, eventually there is not enough to go around. ing. There has been a drop in actual mortgage foreclosure fees There is no quick fix to fixing Florida’s economy problems. It is compared to the forecasted numbers, and fees help finance the time for our governor to be transparent, and tell the truth of the extent of our economic problems. The only way we can court’s budgets. start correcting our state’s problems is that our leaders admit Transportation officials are also warning lawmakers and the gov- there is a problem.

Dudus: I’m guilty Reprinted from the Jamaica Gleaner Daraine Luton, Senior Staff Reporter

Attorney General Dorothy Lightbourne refused to sign the authority to proceed against Coke, saying his constitutional rights were being breached.

CONFESSED GANGSTER Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke is facing a maximum 23 years behind bars following a guilty plea in the Golding’s JLP then engaged US law firm Manatt, Phelps & United States Southern District Court of New York last month. Phillips in a bid to lobby the US government on the matter. The 42-year-old pleaded guilty before US District judge Robert However, under P. Patterson. public pressure, Coke, who was extradited to the US on June 24, Lightbourne signed 2010 to answer narco and firearm charges, will be the authority to prosentenced on December 8 around 4 p.m. ceed against Coke. That was to lead to Court documents released by a United States press a stand-off between office stated that the former Tivoli Gardens don conmen loyal to Coke fessed to racketeering conspiracy in the US and conand members of the spiracy to commit assault in aid of racketeering. security forces. A bloody battle in “The defendant hereby acknowledges that he has Tivoli led to the accepted this agreement and decided to plead guilty deaths of more than because he is in fact guilty,” the plea document 70 people. signed by Coke states. Coke went into hidIt added that, “By entering this plea of guilty, the ing and was capCoke awaits Decsentencing after copping plea defendant waives any and all right to withdraw tured, allegedly dishis plea or to attack his conviction either on direct appeal or guised with a woman’s wig, in the company of clergyman Al collaterally, on the grounds that the government has failed to Miller. He waived his right to fight his extradition to the US produce any discovery material.” and has been awaiting trial since. On the racketeering-conspiracy charge, Coke faces a maximum Coke last week suffered a major setback when Patterson resentence of 20 years in prison, a maximum term of five years’ jected his motion to suppress wiretap information. supervised release, and a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the pecuniary gain from the offence. In obtaining a grand-jury indictment against Coke in August 2009, the prosecutors focused on taped telephone conversations On the conspiracy to commit assault in aid of racketeering he reportedly had with co-conspirators based in the US. charge, he faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison, a maximum term of one year of supervised release, and a maxi- The prosecutors claimed that in one telephone conversamum fine of $250,000, or twice the pecuniary gain. tion on or about April 3, 2007, Coke spoke with three coconspirators concerning firearms that were to be shipped The sentencing guidelines of the United States in federal cases show from the US to Jamaica. that Coke would have faced 262-372 months’ imprisonment. The prosecutors also claim that about April However, be11, 2007, Coke had a telephone conversacause the counts tion with another co-conspirator concerncarry a coming the sale of marijuana in New York, bined statutory while a May 8, 2007 recording had Coke maximum of discussing the distribution of firearms that 276 months’ had arrived in Jamaica. imprisonment, the effective guidelines range is 262 to 276 months’ imprisonment. However, Coke’s lawyers argued that the wiretaps were shared with the US law-enforcement agencies illegally and that their The sentencing court may also impose a fine ranging from use would be in breach of Coke’s rights under the Fifth AmendUS$25,000 to US$250,000. ment of the US constitution.

“The defendant hereby acknowledges that he has accepted this agreement and decided to plead guilty because he is in fact guilty. . .”

Extradited after stand-off

Patterson, however, ruled against Coke, saying he “falls far Coke was extradited following a near one-year stand-off be- short of establishing that the conduct of US or Jamaican govtween the Bruce Golding-led government and the US. Then ernment officials violated his due-process rights”.

Jamaican Diaspora Southern United States hosts town hall meeting for next steps in engagement process

he Jamaican Diaspora Southern United States will host a Town Hall Meeting, titled “Next Steps in Diaspora Engagement”, on Saturday, November 5, 2011, starting at 11am to 1pm, at the Holy Family Episcopal Church, located at 18501 NW 7th Avenue in Miami Gardens. The public is invited to attend and participate in discussions which will focus on next steps in Diaspora engagement; elect and affirm regional organizational leadership for the engagement process moving forward; update on plans for Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of Independence; as well as share thoughts on Jamaica’s governance transition in leadership. “For the last seven years, our community has been on a path of greater communication and collaboration among each other in Diaspora communities across the world. The time has come to move further in formalizing our engagement and leadership,” stated Marlon Hill, Jamaican Diaspora Advisory Board Member for the Southern United States. According to Mr. Hill, “we are expecting a significant turnout from Jamaican based community organizations, nationals and the local media at this forum”. For more information on this event, please call 786-349-2584 or email info@jamaicadiaspora.org.

Local Leaders on a National Platform

Greater Orlando CARES at the Congressional Black Caucus 2011

he Greater Orlando CARES Circle, GO CARES is one of Taylor, born to a Trinidadian mother and whose father is from St. Kitts has the colorful and experithe Circles of the National CARES enced back-ground that will guide our Mentoring Movement, an organiworld to the center of our children and zation that is founded by Susan L. Taylor, Essence Magazine Editor-in-Chief their need for mentorship. Emeritus and Founder of National The Greater Orlando CARES Founding CARESCARES Mentoring Movement. leadership is Dar-rell (Chair) and Jackie Butler, Oliver and Nouchelle (Co-chair) NCMM’s National CARES Mentoring Movement is dedi-cated to recruiting Hastings and Derek and Chyrell Ross and and connecting mentors with local Ian Dix-on who serves as a Tier-1 leader. youth-serving and mentoring organiTogether this group is helping NCMM zations to help guide struggling Black advance the progress of our youth in the children to academic and social success, best practices to move, serve and save and to closing the huge gap between our generation one mentor at a time. the rela-tively few Black mentors and GO CARES Founding Members at local event. millions of our vulnerable children. www.caresmentoring.org The purpose of taking part in the CongresNCMM is devoted to closing the huge gap between the rela- sional Black Caucus was to unify, to speak and serve on panels that tively few Black adult mentors and the millions of raise awareness of issues that are plagu-ing our youth. One session in particular was Con-gresswoman Corrine vulnerable Black children on mentoring organizaBrown’s “The Underground Railroad: Hiding in Plain tions’ waiting lists throughout the nation. It is imperaSight. Congresswoman Brown was also honored for her tive that we raise awareness of the critical need for areas of emphasis in science, math, and mentoring. mentors and role models among Black adults.

Susan Taylor, Oliver and Nouchelle Hastings

The Hastings, Congresswoman Brown, Rep. Thompson, Val Demings (for Congress), Reginald. B. McGill, Constituent Services Director/City of Orlando and the Garbutt’s, (Eunice for Senate District 20)

Susan Taylor and Bob Billingslea, WDW

The Hastings and Congresswoman Brown

APNU visits Orlando

he APNU visited Orlando and stopped at the Duck Curry Competition/ This was an outreach event by APNUn to educate the public about APNU and to rally support for the upcoming Presidential Elections in Guyana. APNU is not a political party, but an association of political parties, Guyanese organisations and citizens. The members of A PARTNERSHIP FOR NATIONAL UNITY will contest the 2011 General and Regional Elections as a single united List of Candidates with: a common symbol; a consensus Presidential Candidate, Mr. David Arthur Granger; a single Representative and a single Deputy Representative of the List of Candidates; an agreed Electoral Platform; and, a unified campaign organisation and management. Elections in Guyana are scheduled for November 28th, 2011.

ImmigrationTALK

U.S. Visa Lottery Open from Oct 4th By Attorney Gail S. Seeram Gail@Go2Lawyer.com The U.S. Department of State will be accepting applications for the 2013 Diversity Visa Lottery program from October 4, 2011 to November 5, 2011. Each year, the Diversity Visa Lottery program makes 55,000 permanent resident visas available to people from eligible countries who meet the strict requirements. Of the 55,000 immigrant visas, 5,000 are allocated for use under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA), thereby making only 50,000 permanent resident visas available on an annual basis. The Department of State chooses the winners of the Diversity Visa Lottery program randomly through a computer-generated lottery drawing. Anyone selected under the Diversity Visa Lottery program will be notified directly by the U.S. Department of State through the mail. Applicants can check the status of their application to see if they are a winner by visiting www.dvlottery.state.gov. If the winner is granted permanent residency, s/he will be authorized to live and work in the United States along with their spouse and children under age 21. There are four basic entry requirements for the Diversity Visa Lottery program.

Native of Eligible Country:

Applicants must be a native of an eligible country. Natives from the following countries are not eligible to apply because they sent more than 50,000 immigrants to the United States during the past five (5) years: Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Pakistan, Philippines, Peru, Poland, South Korea, United Kingdom, and Vietnam. If you were born in a country whose natives are ineligible but your spouse was born in a country whose natives are eligible, you can claim your spouse’s country of birth—provided that both you and your spouse are on the selected entry, are issued visas, and enter the United States simultaneously. Second, if you were born in a country whose natives are ineligible, but neither of your parents was born there or resided there at the

Nov 5th

time of your birth, you may claim nativity in one of your parents’ countries of birth if it is a country whose natives qualify.

Education or Work Experience:

Applicants must have either a high school education or its equivalent (completion of a 12-year course of elementary and secondary education) or two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation requiring at least two years of training or experience to perform.

Photograph:

Recent photographs of the applicant and his family (spouse and unmarried children under age 21) must be submitted with their application. Note, a group or family photo will not be accepted. Separate digital passport style photos of each family member must be submitted with the Diversity Visa Lottery application. Since the application is submitted on-line, the digital photos are also required to be submitted on-line. Thereby, the photos can be produced by taking a new digital image or using a digital scanner to scan the photos. If a new digital image is submitted, it must be in JPEG format, have a maximum file size of 240 KB, have a resolution of 600 pixels high by 600 pixels wide, and have color depth of 24-bit color. If a scan photo is submitted, it must be scanned at a resolution of 300 dpi, it must be in JPEG format, have a maximum file size of 240 KB, have a resolution of 600 by 600 pixels, and have a color depth of 24-bit color. Note, this is the most cumbersome part of the process because if your photo does not meet these specific requirements, your application will not be accepted on-line.

Application:

The Diversity Visa Lottery application is accessible only at www.dvlottery.state.gov and must be submitted on-line. Note, when your application and photo have been accepted on-line, a confirmation screen will appear and this should be printed for your records. Starting May 1, 2012, you will be able to check the status on your 2013 visa lottery entry by visiting www.dvlottery.state.gov and select Entrant Status Check. ’If you require assistance in submitting your visa lottery application, contact our office by email at Gail@Go2Lawyer.com or visit our website at www.GailLaw.com. Questions? Call 407-292-7730 or toll-free at 1-877-GAIL-LAW.

“Break the Silence, Say No to Violence” Group Comes To Orlando!

rlando is about to “Break the Silence, Say No to Violence,” in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Join us to help create “New Beginnings” for Central Florida!

Dianne Madray is a Mental Health Professional and has dedicated herself to helping others, especially the youth to provide a positive contribution to community development through educational and recreational centers for underprivileged children. Ms. Madray is one of the key supportThis group is dedicating its efforts in Orlando to helping our local ers of the I.M.R.A.R.C organization in Cane Grove , Guyana communities bring awareness to do, South America. That organization operates exclumestic violence and emphasizing the sively for charitable purposes to help improve the importance of silence no longer being lives of young people to shape their future. Ms. an option. The group’s message is Madray has also worked extensively on women emsimple: Joining with all families and all powerment to help them make better and healthier communities to Break the Silence, Say choices and decisions. See and read more about Ms. No to Violence! Stand up and be Madray’s organization at: www.imrarc.org. Ms. counted. Let your voice be heard. Madray lives in Pennsylvania and travels regularly to help bring awareness. One of the group’s members, Sukree This group has been very active in bringing awareBoodram is from Central Florida and has been a very vocal survivor of doness in other areas of the globe including New York mestic abuse resulting from a 21 year and Guyana . As recently as June 2011 Guyana was marriage to an alcoholic spouse. She fortunate to see the premier of Sukree Boodram’s was able to extricate herself and her documentary: Voice of a Survivor. Be a part of Orchildren from her situation and now is dedicating her efforts to lando ‘s first awareness session with open and candid dishelping others in similar situations. In addition, she has pub- cussions about this epidemic in our Caribbean Community. lished her memoir this year along with a very captivating docu- This event is free to the public. There will be light lunch, free prizes mentary on her experiences. You can see and read more and raffle give about Ms. Boodram at: www.sukreebood ram.com. Ms. away, include Ms. Boodram lives in Howey In The Hills, Florida and travBood-ram’s book els regularly to help bring awareness. and Documentary which will be aired as part of the Stella Ramsaroop is a columnist for Stabroek News and event program. also a survivor of domestic abuse as a child. She has been speaking out openly on Women Rights Advocacy issues globally and continues to be a very strong voice for women across Domestic violence is a global issue. It affects rich and poor in the globe. Ms. Ramsaroop lives in Texas , but travels regularly both developed and developing nations. Stand up and be to have her voice be heard. She is not afraid to express her opin- counted, and let your voices be heard. Fear should no longer ion on controversial issues that impact us. See and read more be an option. Read and learn about this group and their work on Ms. Ramsaroop’s work at: www.facebook.com/stellasays and at: www.facebook.com/pages/Stop-the-Domestic-Violenceagainst-Women-in-Guyana/110273492317073 at: www.guyanagroove.com

CACCF Reception at Bob Marleys for Air Jamaica flight into Orlando

he Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida hosted a reception for the Air Jamaica flight into Orlando. Special Thanks to CACCF members Brian Bacchus of Luxury Rides Limousine Service and Caribbean American Passport News Magazine for working with the Team at Bob Marleys to create a great event.

CACCF Reception at Bob Marleys for Air Jamaica flight into Orlando — Continued —

‘Peek At Paradise’ Caribbean Travel Show featured limbo dancing, Hat Show stilt walkers & much more!

n Sunday Sept. 25th the anticipated Peek at Paradise Caribbean Travel show was held at the Hilton Orlando Hotel. Attendees enjoyed Rum Samples by Brugal Rum from the Dominican Republic, steel pan music, limbo performances, and stilt walkers. Attendees were able to meet Celebrity Chef Nigel Spence from New York, enjoy a fashion show by designer Yola Gray and meet the recent Queen of the Ms. Orlando Caribbean Pageant. The Peek at Paradise show, brainchild of Sandy Isaacs of Break Away Moments was intended to “ provide a peek at the paradise region known as the Caribbean” and it certainly did, providing attendees with the a great glimpse into the color and culture of the Caribbean.

GE Annual Tea Party at the Rotary Club had a hat parade where prized were awarded for most original and featured a parade of crazy hats that attendees decorated themselves.

Excitement builds for ‘OLE TIME SINTING’ PANTOMIME

xcitement builds for ‘OLE TIME SINTING’ PANTOMIME which will be held in Orlando Sunday, Oct. 23rd. with an outstanding cast of 30 notable performers which include Malachi Smith (Jamaican Lifetime Achievement Award winner for his contribution as an internationally acclaimed dub poet), Marie Gill (Pres. of Ja./USA Chamber of Commerce), Deborah Pinnock, Susan Lycett Davis, Chris Gilchrist, Val Darby, Maxine Osbourne, members of Tallowah Mento Band, Jamaican Folk Revue and Carimer Theatre Company. ‘Ol Time Sinting’ was written by Norma Darby (Jamaican Milestone Award Winner 2011 and recipient of the Order Of Distinction from Jamaica for her Cultural Promotion and Emphasis) and Father Easton Lee, who often performs poetic renditions in Jamaican Dialect mixed with a strong sense of humour.

Orlando’s own New Generation Branches Steel Orchestra is the Miami Panorama 2011 winner for another year!

ew Generation Branches Steel Orchestra are back to back Panorama winners. Branches as they are popularly known in Orlando, has been in existence for the past twenty five years and have been managed by St. Clair Balthazar In addition to anticipating a terrific pantomime show, attendand Roy Belfast, and has ees will have the added bonus of being in the drawing to win a represented Orlando Grand Door Prize of a Jamaican vacation with a 4 Day/3Night Florida in the Miami Carhotel stay at their choice of Sunset Beach Resort Spa & nival since it’s inception. Waterpark, Montego Bay (All-Inclusive Resort) or Sunset JaThe Steel band is made maica Grande Resort & Spa, Ocho Rios (All-Inclusive) Sponup of eighty percent sored by Sunset Resorts as well as other great prizes. young boys and girls from the CaribbeanIn Miami this was a SOLD OUT performance to over 900 American community people in the South Florida area, with some hopeful attend- and they regularly participate in these type of festivals and ees being turned away. Break Away Moments encourages parades. They have participated in the Caribbean Olympics, potential audience to get their tickets as soon as possible so Winter Park Festivals, Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade, Winas to secure seats. Tickets are available for purchase at Nev’s ter Park Crealde Heritage Festival to name a few. It is a Caribbean Shop in Longwood located at 190 Ronald Reagan chance to preserve the history of pan while presenting it on Blvd. Fl. 32750 and Millie’s Jamaican Restaurant located at a wider scale. St. Clair in a recent interview said that “ None 12273 University Blvd. Orlando, Fl. by the UCF Campus. Tick- of this would have been possible for these kids without the ets can also be purchased online via EventBrite.com. Con- support of their parents and Marvin Burnette, musical artact Sandy Isaacs of Break Away Moments at (407) 272-7522 ranger. We would like to say that there is a need for the comfor more details and other event info. munity to support the youth with their Caribbean culture, so that it lives on. “ Branches also wanted to thank the many Admission is $35 per person organizations and individuals who contributed to this band’s (General Seating) and $20 for Children 10yrs. - 18yrs. success, as the number one Steel band in Florida:- Kallas The event is being held at Caribbean Kitchen, Dr. St. Louis and his medical group, OrSanford Civic Center lando Island Boys, Powerline Sounds, Lady D - One Stop, 401 E. Seminole Blvd. Sanford, FL 32771 MMI Health Care, Trinidad and Tobago Association, St. Lucia from 4:00pm - 6:00pm Association, Roberts and Roberts Mangement/Caribbean American Passport, Keith Tillet - Fletcher Enterprises, Caribbean Sunshine Bakery, Unique Smoke Steve/Petronella Without their continued support and donations, the band would not have been able to bring the Panorama title back to Orlando for a consecutive year.

Ms. Orlando Caribbean Pageant 2011 is Shana Simpson

he Ms. Orlando Caribbean Pageant was held on September 18, 2011 at The Hilton Altamonte Springs Hotel. The winner of the pageant is Shana Simpson of Jamaica, sponsored by Break Away Moments; first runner up is Deanna Wright of Puerto Rico, sponsored by Toddler Trails Learning Center; second runner up is Latoya Reno of Jamaica, sponsored by Ms. Jules 26 Salon. Contestants were judged on many factors including Community awareness, talent, knowledge of their country and much more. Sports wear for the evening was provided by Yola Gray with the Forever Paradise Caribbean Wear collection. The goal of the pageant was to assist the delegates in developing the skills required to sustain personal growth and participate in community development.

Sheriff Demings office host Forum Discussion on Consular Officer Notification Requirement By: Attorney Gail Seeram

It is mandatory for law enforcement to notify the consular officers when a national from 57 countries is arrested. Some n October 14,2011, leaders from the Caribbean com- of these countries include Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, munity participated in a forum discussion between the Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Sheriffs & Chiefs from Central Florida and the Carib- Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, and bean Consul Generals from Miami. The forum discussion was Trinidad & Tobago. The notification is typically done by a coordinated by the Caribbean Advisory Committee of the Orange fax sent from law enforcement to the consular officer statCounty Sheriff’s Office. Attorney Gail Seeram, chair of the advi- ing the arrestee’s name, date of birth, charges and where sory committee, led the discussion on the mandatory notification detained. Though the notification is mandatory for only 57 requirement imposed on law enforcement agencies to notify the countries, most of the other countries require a notification consular officer of a non-U.S. citizen arrest. Many of the Carib- to the consular officer if the person arrested request a notifibean leaders present were unaware of this notification require- cation sent to their consular officer. ment and welcomed the open Consul Generals discussion and were present information from St. Lucia, sharing between Barbados, Bahalaw enforcemas, and Haiti. ment and the The Consul GenCaribbean Conerals present acsul Generals knowledged refrom Miami. ceiving notifications from the Orange County law enforcement Sheriff Jerry agencies in CenDemings extral Florida but plained that his asked if more office has dediinformation cated personnel can be provided that sends the consular offices fax notification when a non- to better contact their national who was arrested. They U.S. citizen is arrested by his agency. Other law enforcement noted that contact information does change for each Conagencies that were represented included, Osceola Sheriff Of- sular office and encouraged law enforcement to check the fice, Winter Park Police, Ocoee Police, Florida Highway Patrol most recent information provided on the Department of and Orange County Corrections. The consensus among law State website. enforcement was that their individual agencies were in compliance with the bilateral agreements and treatises that im- For more information on the consular notification requireposed the mandatory notification requirement to consular of- ment, please contact Attorney Gail Seeram at Gail@ ficers when non-U.S. citizens were arrested. Go2Lawyer.com.

HAITI

Archaie Clinic Fund

Charity Luncheon Rosen Centre Hotel 9840 International Drive, Orlando, Fl. 32819

SUNDAY, November 6, 2011 a benefit for Haiti Health & Rehabilitation

11:00am - 4:00 pm Tickets: $35.00 in Advance. Haiti Health & Rehabilitation will host “Journee De Promotion Haitienne. “This fundraiser will feature a Silent Auction with exclusive items, Haitian Art Exhibit, Entertainment, Business Exhibitors and an Exquisite Luncheon.

Special Guest Speaker - Mr. Harris Rosen

Journee de Promotienne Haitienne Luncheon

ife Worth Living Pharmacy has signed on as a Diamond Sponsor for the highly anticipated Journee de Promotienne Haitienne Luncheon on November 6th. Rosen Hotels has donated products towards the Clinic, Roberts & Roberts Property Managemnt and Orlando based interior architects and design firm Dessca Design have collaborated to donate the design the floor plans for the clinic and will be unveiling the design on November 6th. This event has an anticipated attendance of 300 people, for an exhibition of Haitian Art, Dance and Music, with a special presentation on the State of Haiti, the Beauty of Haiti. Mr. Harris Rosen, owner of the Rosen Hotels has made wonderful contributions towards the people of Haiti and will be present as a Special Guest Speaker that afternoon. The funds raised from this event will be used to support the construction of a Medical Clinic in Haiti, in the community of Archaie. This event is being organized by Haiti Health & Rehabilitation Inc. a non-profit organization dedicated to making a difference in the quality of health care in Haiti. For more information visit www.haitihealthrehab.org

All proceeds will go towards supporting the construction of the clinic.

Visit our website at www.haitibrunch.eventbrite.com or www.haiti healthrehab.org for information on the following opportunities: Sponsorship Packages Display Tables Souvenir Journal Advertising Rates

Contact Odette: 321-536-1986 or Guenet 407-421-8118

You are cordially invited to attend Haiti Health & Rehabilitation’s “Archaie Clinc Fund Luncheon” Sunday Nov. 6th, 2011 from 11:00am - 4:00pm Rosen Centre Hotel 9840 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819 Donation $35.00/$40.00 at the door

Golden Krust was awarded Barbados Prime Minister City’s Favorite Restaurant to visit Orlando

arbados Prime Minister, Freundel Stuart, will be the guest at The Coalition for Barbados Association of Central Florida’s Independence Gala. Barbados was an English colony from 1627 when the first Hopetown Settlement was established until the country gained Independence in 1966.

Barbados’ Independence is now celebrated with a month of events and activities in the month of November. Celebrations start with a Lighting Ceremony in the city olden Krust was awarded City’s Favorite Restaurant at Bridgetown and ends with a beautiful Parade Ceremony at the the 1st Annual Orlando Unity Awards 2011. The aim Garrison Savannah on the actual Independence Day (Nov 30th). of the Awards ceremony is to recognize community leaders, small businesses and and individuals who make a positive Do a Short Sale - Get $20,000 Cash Back! impact in the Central Florida area.

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BRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUM FOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKING TOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. TODAY THEY’RE ASKING THE QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE THAT SAYS, “BLACK PEOPLE ARE BRAINWASHED TO VOTE FOR THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY?” GARY: Bryan here is a question that I think we both can agree on. BRYAN: We’ll see. What is it? GARY: Well earlier this month Republican candidate, Herman Cain (A Black Man) in an interview, said that the reason why Blacks don’t vote for the Republican Party is because they are BRAINWASHED. And because of that, he says, they don’t even want to hear what a Republican has to say. So, What would you say to someone that says, “Black people are BRAINWASHED.” BRYAN: WOW, very good question buddy and I hope you’re right. I hope this is one of those questions that we can both agree on. The SHORT ANSWER, is YES. I do think that Blacks have been Brainwashed. GARY: WHAT??? I can’t believe you just said that. BRYAN: Well I did. Does this mean that you disagree with my answer? GARY: Not Only do I disagree, I think it’s absurd and I think you should clarify. BRYAN: Well first of all I’m not saying that blacks haven’t been paying attention or they are not informed. But I remember reading an article the other day where the author said our BRAINWASHING didn’t come from politicians, it came from ourselves. Maybe we are conditioned to vote Democratic because our parents voted that way, everyone we know votes that way, and voting that way has just become ingrained in us. How many people do you know that when they go to vote, they’ve already done their research on the candidates and are ready to make an informed decision? GARY: Look Bryan, I can’t s p e a k f o r e v e r y b o d y. I know that I am informed about the CANDIDATES. I am informed about the ISSUES. And I know what Gary e a c h c a n d i d a t e S TA N D FOR. And if I choose to vote DEMOCRATIC, I don’t think I should be labeled as being BRAINWASHED. BRYAN: Gary we’re not talking about YOU. We are talking about the MAJORITY. I know people today that when they go into the voting booth, they vote for people they don’t even know or ever heard of. City Council Member, Sheriff, County Commissioner, Congressman, or Senator &as long as there is a (D) beside their name, that’s who they’re voting for and I think that’s sad. GARY: Well you might think it’s SAD, but as far as history goes: Up until 1964 Republicans had a nice slice of the BLACK vote. But since President Johnson (Democrat) pushed through the CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964 (Outlawing Segregation in public places) it was made apparently cleat to BLACKS in America that their interest were more aligned with the DEMOCRATIC PARTY. Now I hear what you are saying Bryan, but couldn’t it be that most BLACKS vote for the DEMOCRATS simply because their interests are aligned? BRYAN: Spoken like a true Democrat Gary,‘but that’s still no excuse for people to blindly vote for a person just because he/she is a democrat, regardless of our history. Our ancestors fought and died, so that we would have the RIGHT and the CHOICE to vote for the candidate or candidates that represent our interests. And to do so blindly is almost a spit in the face of our ancestors. GARY: Bryan it sounds like your agreeing with Herman Cain in the sense that more BLACKS need to vote for the Republican Party. BRYAN: On the contrary my friend, I think Mr. Cain is out of touch with the middle and lower class and he definitely does not represent my interests. But as far as the statement he

made, there is some truth to it. GARY: So what would you say to BLACK people that historically vote for the DEMOCRATIC PARTY? BRYAN: Gary, We all have a sense of what’s RIGHT and WRONG, or GOOD and BAD for ourselves, our city, our state, and our country. So we need to stop matching RACE with politics and start understanding what some of these politicians are talking about and what they stand for. GARY: Well there you have it folks, write us and tell us what your thoughts are about the question.

Bryan

*****Some of the views in this article were similar to those of “That RANT Chick” LIFE IS A JOURNEY THAT’S FULL OF UPS AND DOWNS, TWISTS AND TURNS, SUCCESSES AND FAILURES, AND A LOT OF THINGS IN BETWEEN. SO WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF FACED WITH THIS QUESTION? E-MAIL US AT BACK2BASICLIVE@GMAIL.COM .

CurryDuck Curry Competition awards $2300 in Prizes

rlando, October 16, 2011 - At the 6th annual Curry Duck Curry competition, contestants competed for over $2,300.00 in cash prizes. The prizes up for grab were 1st place, 2nd place, 3rd place, best tent presentation and people’s choice. This year’s contestants included Indra from Indra’s Kitchen, Tiger from Tiger & Son Construction, Feraz Mohammed sponsored by TEMA Foundation and MMI Heathcare, Simon & Rajin from Central Boyz, Elizabeth Vieira, Tika Persaud from Main Street Collision, Bobby from First Choice Auto, Nadia Khan, Neil Achaibar, Danny Mohan, Savitree Ragoobar, and M o h a m m a d Farooq from Taj Mahal Curr y of New Port Richey.

fresh taste, curry flavor and tenderness. In choosing the Best Tent Presentation, the judges rated each tent on cleanliness of cooking area, creative table décor and plated curry duck. While the ducks were cooking up, performers such as Calypso Rose, Ranjeev & G6 Revolution, KI from JMC 3Veni, D’Rani Rasika, Supertones, Braches Steel pan, Trinlando Tassa, Maya Dance Studio, and Diya International kept the crowd entertained. On stage, the hosts, Creig Camacho and Attorney Gail Seeram, kept the crowd’s attention while the DJs, Powerline Sounds HD, Natural Mystic, DJ Nelly, DJ Dean, DJ Nuff Style, DJ Singh Stylez, and GT Sound Machine kept the crowd palancing. Also, Jungle Vibes TV was on site capturing footage and vibes.

The first place prize of $1000.00 (sponsored by John Lowton), a gold duck pendant and chain (sponsored by Jumbo Jet Auto Sales), and trophy (sponsored by ACS Accounting) was awarded to Tiger from Tiger & Son Construction. The second place prize of $500.00 (sponsored by Golden Apple Restaurant & Starlight Lounge) and trophy (sponsored by ACS Accounting) was awarded to Feraz Mohammed. The third place prize of $300.00 (sponsored by Salina’s Market) and trophy (sponsored by ACS Accounting) was awarded to Tika Persaud.

“We are committed to organizing this community event every year but continue to need the financial support of the community and business owners,” said John, one of the organizers of the Curry Duck Curry competition. Some of the contributors include Jumbo Jet, SeaFreight, LaParkan, The Best Tent Presentation prize of $300.00 (sponsored by Im- MMI Healthcare, Banks Beer, Carib Beer, Heineken, Golden migration Attorney Gail Seeram) was awarded to Neil Achaibar. Apple Restaurant, Starlight, Accounting & Computer SerThe People’s Choice prize of $300.00 (sponsored by Immigra- vices, Michael Maharana , American Realty Group, Caribtion Attorney Gail Seeram) was awarded to Tika Persaud. bean Airlines, Salina Market and Immigration law Offices of Gail S. Seeram. The judges included Alisa from Gemini Productions, Jay Patel, Creig Camacho, Philip Scantlebury, and Anita Singh from If you would like to be a contestant for next year’s 7th Annual LaParkan. In determining the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners, Curry Duck Curry competition to be held on October 6, 2012 the judges rated the curry duck curry based on pepper, salt, at Festival Field by the Citrus Bowl , please call 407-346-7157.

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

Golding: We can overcome Reprinted from the Jamaica Observer

person other than Coke it perhaps would never have become the cause célèbre that it turned out to be. We have since amended the Interception of Communications Act to permit My fellow Jamaicans . . . in the future, the action that was taken in Coke’s case but which, ast Sunday, I advised my party’s central executive that I at that time, was in violation of our Constitution. would not seek re-election at the annual general conference to be held next month and I would step down as However, the entire episode has affected me deeply and the perceptions that are held by some people have not been prime minister as soon as a dispelled, notwithstanding the exhaustive deliberations new leader had been elected. of a Commission of Enquiry. I had come to this position after deep contemplation and I cannot allow the challenges we face and the issues prayer, seeking to do what is that we as a people must confront to be smothered or best for the country and the overpowered by this saga and the emotions that they party. ignite. It would not be fair to my country; it would not be fair to my party. The timing of my announcement might appear to have There are other considerations that led to my decibeen awkward since I was presion. It is time for my generation to make way for paring for my mother’s fuyounger people whose time has come, who are more neral, but it was unavoidable in sync with 21stcentury realities, whose vision can and let me pause here to exhave a longer scope and who can bring new energy press thanks on behalf of my to the enormous tasks that confront us. The leaders family for the outpouring of of major countries around the world - for example, sympathy at her passing. Let the United States, Britain, Canada, Mexico, Spain, the me explain the timing. Netherlands, Finland, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Australia, and New Zealand - are all more The annual general conference than 10 years younger than I am. It is a worldwide of the JLP is scheduled to be held on November 19 & 20. As stipulated in the party’s consti- trend and we in Jamaica should not resist it. tution, the deadline for nominations is October 19. Sufficient time, therefore, had to be allowed for potential candidates to I was first elected to Parliament almost 40 years ago. In the consider offering themselves and meet the October 19 nomi- next two months I will be 64. I feel it is time for me and people nation deadline. Sufficient time had to be allowed, as well, for like me to make way and allow a new crop of leaders to step the delegates to contemplate their choices since they would forward and unleash their energies and creativity. There are not have been anticipating that a vacancy would arise. But it young people in my party, indeed in both parties, who are cawas important not to have too long a period of uncertainty pable of providing the leadership that the country requires at this time. We must not, for the sake of personal ambition, block regarding the leadership and direction of the government. their emergence. My advice and counsel will always be availIn addition, the central executive which meets quarterly was, able if and when required. last Sunday, holding its last meeting before the annual genI told my central executive last Sunday that the next few weeks eral conference. I had to make my decision known then. will be crucial not only for us as a party but for the country. In the brief statement I issued on Sunday, I stated that the chal- The election of a new leader is a process that must be conducted in a malenges of the last four years had taken their ture, transparent toll and it was appropriate now to step aside and dignified and make way for new leadership. manner. This is especially so since The last few years, perhaps, have been the we form the govmost difficult period that any government ernment. In the has had to face. Like most other countries, we have taken a battering from the global recession and the past few days, I have been in contact with our major internarecovery we are so anxious to see has been slow, the global tional partners and I have assured them that the direction of the government is firmly in place and that the transition will environment still uncertain. be smooth and seamless. The financial markets remain sober We have managed to avoid the kind of disaster we have wit- while they await the appointment of a new Prime Minister and nessed in many other countries but the effects of the recession confirmation that we will not deviate from the economic reforms on which we have embarked. In my remaining few weeks, have still been painful for many Jamaicans. I will continue to work as hard as I have ever done and hand I have worked hard these past four years, 16-18 hours a day over the reins of office gracefully to my successor. most days, in navigating our way through these treacherous waters. We are beginning to see positive results: far-reaching The General Secretary of the party has already outlined the macroeconomic reforms have been implemented; the economy procedures for the election of a new leader. The Electoral Office has returned to a growth path, modest though it is; we are once of Jamaica has been asked to manage the voting process and again creating new jobs even though we have not yet restored everything will be done to ensure an orderly transition. the jobs that were lost; the rise in poverty has been cauterized. I have an abiding faith in my country and in the people of my While the worst may have passed, we are not yet out of the country. Despite the formidable challenges we face, we can woods. There are challenges that remain on many fronts that overcome; we will make it if we try and try hard enough, if we will require strong leadership to overcome and absolute confi- remain focused and committed not just to the next elections but to the future and the possibilities that are within our reach dence in the authority of that leadership. and must be placed securely within our grasp. This is not a Questions about the role I played in the Coke/Manatt matter time to be fearful or bewildered. It is a time for renewed hope have remained a source of concern in the minds of many and renewed effort. people. It was never about Coke’s guilt or innocence. I hope to address you one more time before I leave office and, as It was about a breach of our Constitution and had it been a always, I pray God’s blessings on our nation and all its people.

“...the challenges of the last four years had taken their toll and it was appropriate now to step aside and make way for new leadership.”

Val Demings, ccontinued ontinued from page 1 With the theme of “Women and Safety,” Chief Demings, who is the first woman and thirty sixth chief of the Orlando Police Department (OPD) offered several suggestions on how women can prevent crimes of person and property from affecting them. She said that violence against women is not necessarily done by strangers, as in the United States, every eighteen (18) minutes a woman is beaten or hurt by someone she knows and loves, meaning in the home. Since only twenty percent of abused women seek medical attention, she is of the opinion that the statistics are much higher. Chief Demings stated that although poorer women are more susceptible to domestic violence, it occurs in all demographics, making it very difficult “to put a face on it”. In the area of crime prevention, she said that the way women carry themselves in public makes a great difference in whether they are attacked or not. She warned against being timid, distracted, and unaware of the surroundings, but instead to be confident, aware and alert at all times. Giving a brief summary of her rise to the top post at the OPD, Chief Demings noted that women have to be courageous, be prepared and seek out the right opportunity in order to be successful and follow their dreams. Putting aside fear of fulfilling one’s full potential, making preparation and sacrifices along the way, she feels will equip women to be ready when the opportunities present themselves. She said women are stronger than they think they are, and urged them to continue the fight for such rights as equal pay for equal work and control over their own bodies.

News from the Tampa Bay Region

ampa Caribbean a brand of Bartley Ventures, LLC along with other civic organizations have been quietly rallying support throughout the Bay Area for increased awareness of the contributions of Caribbean Americans and for inclusion of its heritage in the cultural landscape of Tampa Bay. In an interview Bartley Ventures’ CEO, Roxanne Bartley, said, “For too long Caribbean Americans have been cast into the demographics of African Americans and Latinos. Now please do not take my comment as a disparagement of either group. Instead understand that I applaud them for being counted and recognized as the significant socio, political and economic forces that they are. Just here in the State of FL a Caribbean American is the Lieutenant Govenor (Jennifer Carroll (like Bartley) is an immigrant from Trinidad & Tobago), throughout the USA there are doctors, business owners, civic leaders, community workers, entertainers and people of all walks of life, over 20 million, that help to make their adopted home great! The Caribbean population of the U.S. commands over $40 billion in annual retail sales, are largely under age 40 and is a very selective consumer group.”

After spending 27 years at the OPD, three of which was as the top cop, Chief Demings is now running to fill the Congressional In return, Caribbean Americans want to have their art, music, seat in Florida’s 8th Congressional District. and heritage celebrated in our cities. They want to be represented in the art installations at the Tampa International AirThe Women of Wisdom, which sponsored the event, is a group port, downtown St Petersburg, Tampa, Orlando and the like. of professional women united under the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Inc. Their goal is to engage, When asked about her motivation, Bartley commented, “I have connect and strengthen women by providing them with the two young sons, who have an American father and a mother of Caribbean heritage, I want them to live in a community necessary information and resources. that celebrates all of it! I would like them to visit the Children’s Museums (like Glazer and MOSI) and see things that are representative of their collective history. I’d like them to go to the Straz and witness a performance by a legendary Steeldrum player. Do you know that the steelpan was invented in Trinidad? And is the only instrument invented in the 20th century!” She continued, “I’m passionate; it is very personal for me, but not just for me, there are over 200,000 people in the Bay area that feel the same! It would be wonderful to have more direct flights from Tampa to the Caribbean instead of having exhausting A TRIBUTE TO CANCER SURVIVORS connections in Miami. There is much work to be done to reflect FEATURING: diversity and inclusion in Tampa.” SECOND CHANCE (FT LAUDERDALE) Research for this article showed, Caribbean Blacks are differSIS CLAUDELL CLARKE (FROM JAMAICA) PASTOR NADINE (ORLANDO) entiated from African Americans by cultural values/customs, GTF PRAISE DANCE MINISTRY languages and ethnicity for some. More than 22 million people SIS NIKESHA (ORLANDO) of Caribbean heritage live in the US. (Source:Strategy Research BRAATA JAMAICAN FOLK SINGERS (NEW YORK) Corporation). However, based on what advocates say is an SUNDAY: DEC 4TH 5PM SHARP undercount of the population based on the fact that they are VENUE: ROYAL SANTA FE BANQUET HALL & CONFERENCE CENTER lumped into, in 2000, of the 31.1 million foreign born in the 630 EMERALD RD, ORLANDO FLA 32808 United States, about 2,953,066 (9.5 percent) counted by the ADMISSION : $20 PRE PAID & $30 AT THE DOOR U.S. Census were born in Caribbean countries. Their numbers PROCEEDS GO TO WOMEN BATTLING CANCER IN THE CARIBBEAN increased 22.0% from 1999 to 2000 and 12.9% from 2000 to FREE MASTECTOMY BRAS GIVE AWAY, PRIZES AND SURPRISES! 2001. (US CENSUS 2000) FOR TICKET OUTLET AND INFO: 954)558-3355/321) 300-5775 Caribbean nationals place a high value on formal education and as such they are educated, 68.1% of those aged 25+ have completed high school or more versus 78.4% of African AmeriCenter, continued from page 1 cans. 13.0% have Bachelors and 6.4% have advanced degrees, many people neglect their health because of “busy lives,” and that comparable to African Americans. (Migration Policy Center) was her way of life before she was diagnosed with cancer six years and Black Diversity Study, August 2003) ago. She encouraged those present to take advantage of available free screenings that were being provided by the many organiza- You may wonder given these numbers, why is this diverse group tions participating at the Health Summit Commissioner Ronald ignored? Mainly because there is no self-identifying category Brise’ of Florida Public Service Commission told attendees in English and Creole that “your health is your greatest asset and that if on the U.S. Census form that allows them to truly count their they are not healthy, they can’t go to work to take care of their numbers even though they have lived in the U.S. since slavery. children properly.” Commissioner Brise’ highlighted the theme of However this may be changing soon, due to advocacy efforts out of D.C. and New York. the Health Summit, “Healthy You = Healthy Community.”

HIGHER FAITH INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES PRESENTS CELEBRATION OF LIFE

The City of Orlando proclamation was read by Commissioner Daisy W. Lynum, (District 5), who also said that she has not missed any of the Health Summit since its inception and that much appreciation should be given to the Center for Multicultural Wellness and Prevention. This year’s event was co-sponsored by “All Into Health “ and Florida Hospital. Dr. Yolanda Martinez, director in the Office of Community Health at Orange County Health Department, stressed the importance of smokers to quit because of the effects that smoking had on their lives and those around them. Florida Hospital supplied the majority of the blood pressure, lipids, cholesterol, PSA and mammogram screenings to the public.

The West Indian Day Parade in New York held annually on Labor Day on Brooklyn Parkway attracts millons of patrons and this year was broadcast via online stations to millions more worldwide. Caribbean Community leaders in Tampa Bay would like to see the same support given to the Tampa Caribbean Carnival 2012 slated for May 19th Raymond James Stadium. Tampa’s local economy would certainly benefit from another event the scale of Gasparilla showcasing the rich cultural heritage of over twenty five islands whose bi-nationals make their home here in the bay area.

Black Business Day

he Black Business Investment Fund of Central Florida, Inc (BBIF) in conjunction with the African American Chamber of Commerce, Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Central Florida Urban League, and NAACP are proud to present the 1st Annual Central Florida Black Business Day event to foster open and positive communication of Central Florida’s black business owners with local and state elected officials in order to formulate strategic initiatives that will assist in “opening business” opportunities for black businesses. This event will bring together both local and state elected officials, black business owners, and community leaders to discuss and create strategic initiatives to assist black business achieve more business opportunities. Black businesses create and sustain thousands of jobs and contribute millions of dollars to our local, state and national economy.

Friday, October 28, 2011 8:00 am - 12:00 noon Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld 10100 International Drive Orlando, FL 32821 This is a Free Event for all business owners with Online Registration. Register Online: http://www.bbif.com/

Things to do Oct 21, 2011: UCF Supplier Diversity Day 9:00 a.m. -12:00 Noon www.purchasing.ucf.edu. 407-823-2661

Oct 24, 2011: CACCF Cyber Safety Workshop 6:00 -8:00 p.m Contact: Carol Singh 407-491-9192

Oct 28, 2011: BBIF Black Business Day 8:30 - 12:00 Noon www.bbif.com

Nov. 12th: Antigua & Barbuda 12th Annual Gala at the Hilton at Altamonte Springs Contact: 407-830-1985

Nov. 19th: Barbados Association Gala Rosen Centre Hotel Contact: 407-694-1285