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Haitian American Heritage Month 2016 Haitian Heritage Month is a celebration of the Haitian heritage and culture. It was first celebrated in the United States in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1998. South Florida congressman Kendrick B. Meek introduced a bill in the United States House of Representatives to recognize the month of May as HaitianAmerican Heritage Month in the United States. President George W. Bush sent a letter in May 2005 to congratulate the HaitianAmerican community for the heritage month and organized a celebration at the White House the same year.
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Joy's Roti Shop a Caribbean Landmark in South Florida
May is celebrated with a series of programs on Haitian history, culture, and information about the contributions of Haitians to the world. Please see page 8 for a special message of our Orlando based Haitian Consul General. Continued on page 8
See story & more photos on page 9
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L I F E S T Y L E
Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor
CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH Samuel J. Roberts, Publisher/Editor
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aribbean American Heritage Month and Copa America soccer, what an opportunity to truely show our Caribbean heritage and pride. Copa America is a tournament, 100 years in the making, its inception was in 1916. This year's tournament is a collaborative agreement between CONMEBOL, the South American football confederation, and CONCACAF, the football confederation for North and Central America and the Caribbean. This is a special edition between the usual fouryear cycle, and it features an expanded field of 16 teams, an increase from the usual 12, with all ten teams from CONMEBOL and six teams from CONCACAF. In Orlando will have the opportunity to see the following games live at the Citrus Bowl or rather at the newly renamed Camping World Stadium on June 4th thru 8th. • • •
Costa Rica v Paraguay, Saturday June 4, 5:00pm Panama v Bolivia, Monday June 6, 7:00pm Brazil v Haiti, Wednesday June 8, 7:30pm
CARIBBEAN AMERICAN PASSPORT has teamed up with Copa America, the City of Orlando and Orange County and our sponsors to offer special discount pricing for these matches....JOIN US ON JUNE 7th - INTERNATIONAL SOCCER STREET FEST from 6pm to 10 pm on Church Street Downtown Orlando. All are invited to take advantage of this great offer, which provides up to a 20% discount on the price of your game tickets, send an email to sales@caribbeanamericanpassport.com or visit our facebook page. We invite you to come out to the Welcome Celebration that we are coordinating downtown on Church Street to welcome the COPA America to Orlando. If you don't have a ticket for the Haiti V Brazil Match, we plan on giving away 50 tickets to lucky attendees that night. The evening will kick off with music and dancing to celebrate and show off the Culture of LATIN AMERICA at 6pm and go until 10pm. Tune in online to WWW.CAPRADIO98.COM leading up to the COPA America for additional chances to win tickets to all three of the games. You can find CAPRADIO98.COM on your 'Tunein' app so that you can listen on your phone as well. CAPRADIO98.COM will formally be launched at the Copa America Welcome Celebration so come out to get free concert tickets, t-shirts and other giveaways. It is an extension of our multimedia plaform that will also include CAPTV which will be launching in 2017. We're excited to continue the growth of Caribbean Media to share the Caribbean Experience with the world. Tune in and listen to give us your
feedback. We ask that you, our readers, support the companies that sponsor our events and that you see advertising in the newspaper and hear on the radio, they allow us to bring you more content. We also ask your support in sharing the events, the newspaper and the radio station. This is the largest soccer tournament to come to the United States and Orlando since the World Cup Finals in 1994. Orlando is a world class tourist destination with world class attractions. With additions of the new sports venues we are going to be competing for world class sports .......think about this WORLD CUP SOCCER in ORLANDO!!!!! We can all make this happen. COME OUT IN NUMBERS and SUPPORT COPA AMERICA 2016, ticket sales mean EVERYTHING.
SPECIAL LIMITED TIME OFFER We will be randomly selecting 4 ticket winners from our readers, our supporters and those who follow us on social media. Four way to win: 1. Email 'COPA' to sales@caribbeanamericanpassport.com 2. Text 'COPA' with your email address to 407-810-6435 3. Register at www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com 4. Listen to www.CAPRadio98.com for a chance to win
1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 Office: 407-427-1800 Fax: 407-386-7925 Toll Free: 877-220-8315 For Media Information email: Publisher: sroberts@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Sales: sales@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Info: .Info@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Should you desire to review past copies of the publication go to http://caribbeanamericanpassport.com and click on the
Print Archive.
Editor & Publisher ............................................................... Sam Roberts Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-Roberts Graphic Design & Layout ......................................Jan Longwell-Smiley Contributing Writers: ............................................................ Tony Dyal ..............................................................................................Ryan Davis
........................................................................................Sasha Dookoo ............................................................................................ Gail Seeram
.........................................................................................Sasha Watson ........................................................................................ Kamal Abdool Contributing Photographers ............ .................................Ted Hollins ...................................................................................................Gail Zucker .......................................................................................... Sandra Fatmi .............................................. ..............................................Brion Price Central Florida Distribution...................................................Roy Benn South Florida Distribution ........................................Norman Williams NorthFlorida Distribution ...................................................Theo Jack Jr. Copyright (C) 2016 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.
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Letters to My Lawyer™ This column is primarily for educational purposes as well as to give the reader general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide any legal advice whatsoever. By reading this column you understand that there is no attorney-cliet relationship between you and writer/pub-lisher. This column should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney. This column is not published for advertising or solicitation purposes. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.
By Kafi D. Kennedy Swanson, Esq
Dear Lawyer: I was arrested for misdemeanor battery and taken to jail. I bonded out of jail and went to court a few weeks later and the charges had been changed to a Felony Battery. I don’t’ understand how the charged changed since I wasn’t arrested for it. I have my original arrest report and it clearly says misdemeanor battery. When I went to court they give me a copy of an information with the new Felony Battery Charge. Will you please explain to me how can I be arrested for one set of charges and get another set of charges weeks later. Also what are the ways I can resolve this case? Confused Defendant Dear Confused Defendant: What you received at your arraignment was a copy of the Information. An information is the formal charging document against you. After an arrest is made the Law Enforcement Agency forwards the affidavit as well as any other evidence they have to the State Attorney’s Office. The Assistant State Attorney reviews all documentation related to the case and files charges they believe they can prove at trial. This may be more or less than what you were originally arrested for.
The simplest way to look at the difference between misdemeanor battery and felony battery is the harm that is alleged to have occurred to the victim. An example of harm for a misdemeanor battery is the victim bruised their knee. An example of harm that was caused by a felony battery would be a broken leg. Based on the State Attorney’s investigation of the case they may believe the victims injuries were more severe or greater than believed at the time of your arrest and therefore charged you with a Felony Battery which has a higher punishment level. You have three options to resolve your case. The first is to take your case to trial. This will give you the opportunity to present all defense in front a jury of your peers and the State of Florida would have to prove you guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The second option is to enter a Plea Guilty or No Contest and accept a plea offer given to you by the State of Florida. The third option is to enter a Plea Guilty or No Contest and enter a Plea to the Court where the Judge would determine the sentence. There are collateral consequences that should be considered when resolving a criminal cases such as the right to vote, carry weapons, receive federal financial aid and others. You should contact an experienced attorney in order to discuss the pros and cons of each of your options so you may make the best informed decision. Please submit your letters to letters@hawmlaw.com. Each month a reader’s letter will be chosen for response.
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Letters to My Lawyer™ is a publication of Karlyn Hylton & Sasha Watson of Hylton, Adamson Watson, PLLC 120 E. Colonial Drive |Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-802-3223 | F: 407-377-1971 Email: letters@hawmlaw.com
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They got Together ' at Wynwoord Yard breaks all barriers. Visit our website for more pictures - www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
'SUN IS SHINING, THE WEATHER IS SWEET, MAKE YOU WANT TO MOVE YOUR DANCING FEET" By Gail Zucker
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Improving your Health... Segment Sponsored by: Accu Reference Medical Lab 6388 Silver Star Rd, Orlando, Florida 32818 Phone (407) 434-0252 Presently, the degenerative diseases of aging are humankind's greatest challenge: cancer, heart attack, stroke, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease prematurely kill and disable millions of people worldwide. In the United States alone, eliminating the number of deaths from many of these diseases would result in hundreds of billions of dollars returned to the economy, not including the savings in medical costs. Imagine how wonderful it would be if a pharmaceutical company developed a pill which could cure 60-70% of all aging-related diseases. Yet that is the percentage of cancers that are preventable in this country, according to the American Cancer Society. They estimate, for example, that 90,000 deaths due to cancer could be prevented each year in the U.S. if men and women did nothing more than maintain normal weight. Equally compelling available evidence demonstrates the possibility to prevent a similar percentage of many other aging-related diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes. It would appear that the diseases and diminished functioning many experience with age are far more related to a lifetime of unenlightened choices than they are to the ticking of a clock. The gradual wasting away of the body over the course of decades is not a necessary or normal component of aging. Preventive-aging measures are available to postpone entry into the disability span of life and improve one’s “health expectancy.” Screening, health risk assessment and early intervention for the improvement of physiological, cognitive, emotional, and physical functioning offer possible and significant increases to one’s “health expectancy.” A comprehensive approach to preventive-aging should include equal attention to optimum nutrition and appropriate nutritional supplementation, exercise and fitness, hormone balance, healthy lifestyle changes, and stress-response management. Any preventive-aging strategy should strive to build the body’s reserve capacity, improve functional ability, and reestablish balance at the in the body and the mind. The moment to act is now. While you cannot go back and make a new start you can start today to make a new ending. Annual blood testing is the most important step aging adults can take to prevent life-threatening disease. With blood test results in hand, you can catch critical changes in your body before they manifest as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or worse. Having the proper blood tests can empower you to enact a science-based disease-prevention program that could add decades of healthy life. ACCU Reference Medical Lab offers a Simple, No-Stress Testing Procedure with affordable Lab Tests for All Patients. Accu Reference tests are priced competitively low and they accept Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance while offering special pricing for patients who have no insurance. We invite you to compare their prices to see how much you’ll save while enjoying the convenience of blood testing in the comfort of your home.
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A Special message form Chief of Mission Natalie Fourcand
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ear Reader,
To commemorate the 213th anniversary of the creation of the Haitian flag, Sunday, May 18, 2016, the Consulate of Haiti in Orlando is pleased to invite you to reverberate the spirit of unity that inspired our founding Fathers, May 18, 1804 in Arcahaie. With the month of May, officially, declared Haitian Heritage Cultural Month in Central Florida, dozens of special events and cultural activities will be taking place around Central Florida in celebration of the Haitian Heritage Cultural Month. Music festivals, Haitian arts, and foodie events are just fractions of the divers events and activities that are occurring this Month. We invite you to seek out where the activities are and join people of all backgrounds and ethnicities to show your appreciation for the Haitian Heritage Cultural Month. At the Consulate of Haiti in Orlando, our goal is to inspire a spirit of nationalism among Haitians living in Orlando and far beyond our borders. We are here to promote our colorful Haitian arts, culture, tourism, education, trade, and most importantly, to bring solutions, within our jurisdictions, to many challenges facing Haitian in central Florida.
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21 Mai 2016 : 10 :00 AM Haitian Flag Day and Cultural Explosion Haitian American Art Network et District 6 Commissioner Samuel B. Ings 1723 Bruton Boulevard, Orlando, Fl 32805
Few weeks ago we started our “Konsila Mobil” and “Sèvis Lakay Ou” initiatives in order to bring the consulate services closer to the people we serve. These initiatives are geared towards people over 65 years or older and people with disabilities and those living in areas far out of reach of the consulate premise. These services will allow the above group to take full advantage of the services we offer at the consulate at the comfort of their home Here are some activities planned for the celebration of the Haitian flag May 18, 2016 •
18 Mai 2016: 4:00 P.M. Flag Day : AHCEFENA (Central Florida Fairgrounds)
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18 Mai 2016 : 5 :00 8 :00 PM Flag Day : Haitian American Art Network and District 6 Commissioner Samuel B. Ings City Hall Council Chambers 400 S. Orange Ave, Orlando, Fl 32802
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18 Mai 2016: Disney World
10:00 A.M.
Chief of Mission Natalie Fourcand Consulate General Of Haiti in Orlando 1616 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 897-1262
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JAMAICA DIASPORA SOUTHERN USA SUMMIT AND GALA ORLANDO, FLORDA JUNE 24-26TH, 2016
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ayne C. Golding Sr. Esq., the Jamaica Diaspora Advisory Board Member for the Southern United States has formally announced the convening of the Jamaican Diaspora Summit and Gala 2016 to be held June 24 through 26th, 2016 in Orlando, Florida. The Summit and Gala event is themed “Providing A Roadmap To Power and Influence” and will be focused on “Recognizing our achievement in the Diaspora …Building on our legacy”. The event is being presented in partnership with Advance Jamaica Inc., and incorporates the Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival. The Summit and Gala will take place at the Embassy Suite by Hilton, 4955 Kyngs Heath Road, Kissimmee/Orlando, Florida 34746. Summit 2016 will compliment the successful staging of the 6th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference held this past June 2015 in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The Consulate of Jamaica- Miami will also be a key participant and will be providing outreach services throughout the Summit weekend activities.
Mr. Golding emphasizes the fact that Jamaicans have made an indelible and positive impact on life in the American Diaspora and that the staging of Gala event on night of Saturday June 25th, will highlight, honor and celebrate our Jamaican Diasporans and others who have contributed to the upward mobility, influence of the Jamaican Diaspora and its long list of success stories. Summit 2016 will culminate on Sunday June 26th, 2016 with a massive celebration of the strength of the fabric of Jamaican Diaspora collaboration and influence that has been woven into the larger Caribbean American Diaspora. Summit participants will be embedded into the celebration at the Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival, which
The weekend of events begin on the evening of Friday June 24th with on-site registration and a welcome reception for Summit attendees. Saturday June 25th, will feature three main interactive Symposiums, which will highlight the intersection and interaction of our multigenerational Jamaican Diasporans. A plethora and cross section of Jamaican Diasporans will be participating in the symposiums along with varying representatives from the Government Shannon Baruch, Wayne Golding, Sandra Fatmi & Guenet Roberts celebrating CACCF's of Jamaica, including members of both the Partnership with the Jamaica Diaspora Summit ruling and opposition parties. Many individuals boasts an attendance of between 8000 – 10000 attendees and organizations from the private sectors of Jamaica and the annually. The Festival is free and will take place at the Jamaican Diaspora are also slated to attend and participate. Fashion Square Mall in Orlando, Florida.
Jamaican Diasporans, Jamaican Organizations and friends of Jamaica are all invited to attend and participate in the 2016 Summit and its activities. There is a cost for attendance to the Summit and Gala.
The symposiums will encompass areas ranging from Media, Elected Office, Government Service, Clergy, Education, Academia, Entrepreneurship, Philanthropy, Culture, Sports and Entertainment, etc. One key Symposium will specifically deal with the implementation of official protocols and mechanisms for improved partnership between Jamaica and the Diaspora.
For more information about attending or booking your accommodations to attend the Summit and Gala, please visit our website at: www.jamaicadiasporasummit.com or call 1-407900-8137.
Joy's Roti Delight - A Caribbean Landmark in South Florida The paths we take in life and the trails we leave behind. Joy Sawh left Trinidad & Tobago and migrated to the United States for a better life for his family. His commitment to his culture and his passion has touched many lives and will continue to leave its mark on the South Florida community. After the sudden death of Joy Sawh, the co-owner of Joy’s Roti Delight, the City of Lauderhill has agreed to rename NW 41 Terrace to “Joy Sawh Street.” Joy Sawh touched many lives in the City of Lauderhill, Joy’s was simply the place to go and the place to eat if you wanted that authentic Trini experience in South Florida. Joy also loved to entertain people in his restaurant and gave of himself not only with food and hospitality, but often with heartfelt advice and many times, with his own time and money. Miami-Broward Carnival in South Florida had a part-time
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by Sam Roberts
home in front of Joy’s Roti Delight every Columbus Day weekend with steelpan music, carnival costumes on display and loud soca, chutney and carnival music…..it will always be the place to be!!!!! We at the Caribbean American Passport are proud to recognize Joy Sawh as a true legend and Joy's Roti Deligh as landmark in the Caribbean community with his commitment to his trade, great roti & curry, and his commitment to promoting and preserving our Caribbean culture. The next time you’re in South Florida stop by Joy’s Roti Delight and pay your respects to one of our own, a true Caribbean legend and now a South Florida landmark. Also, while there enjoy one of Joy’s famous dishes and have a drink while making a toast to Joy Sawh.
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CAFA Fusion 2016 - A Message from the President - Andy King Please visit their website for more information and photos - www.cafainc.org
he 2016 Caribbean Fusion Festival, was an T unqualified success.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the hard working members of the Caribbean Fusion Planning Committee, especially Donna Cadogan/Sharon Dover and their team, who worked so tirelessly together and are committed to ensuring the success of the festival. Thank you to our sponsors, whose contribution towards keeping our culture alive resulted in a day of great celebration and family friendly entertainment. A big thank you to The City of Kissimmee Management, Parks and Recreations Department (Civic Center Staff), Experience Kissimmee, Jim Welsh and the folks at Kissimmee Utility Authority, Osceola Regional Hospital, Caribbean Passport News Magazine, Osceola Gazette, Metro PCS, Florida Mall Properties, Inc., Kaieteur Tropical Mist Restaurant, Soiree Events, Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce, Solid Rock Church of God, Inocencia Chisholm, Mimsco Ice, countless DJ’s and Broadcasters who assisted in getting the word out. It was a dazzling afternoon and we received positive feedback
from patrons who voiced their appreciation, both before, and most enthusiastically, after the Festival. While we have witnessed outstanding productions of this event in previous years, this one will be remembered as the most successful and we hope you join with us same time next year for what promises to be another memorable occasion CAFA is especially grateful for the many volunteers and performers that donated countless hours of their time to help make this program successful. MC Creig Camacho and his fine crop of musicians, Caribbean Groove Band, St. John’s Episcopal Steel Orchestra, T&T Sweet Tassa International, Tavi & Eynok (Latin Reggaeton), The Horizon Middle School Color Guard, Ms. Jere’ Reid, DJ Code Red, and of course 5 Star Akil, Trinidad and Tobago’s international soca star. A special 'Thank you' to the pavilion managers, Joan/Noel and the crew, whose time, commitment and coordination was priceless. I am so proud to represent Caribbean Fusion and I know many others from all parts of the world who commit to making this Osceola County’s best family festival.
They got Together ' at Wynwoord Yard breaks all barriers.
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By Gail Zucker
t was a perfect Miami evening, a cool breeze gently blowing. Who would think a venue like Wynwood Yard would exist in the midst of downtown Miami. 'The Get Together', hosted by The House of Marley, Jason Panton & Lance O & the Kulcha Shok Krew have created a rootsy haven for reggae music lovers to feel at home. Its a family event, and all ages enjoyed themselves rockin' to the reggae beat. The evening commenced with Sheldon 'the Don' Shepherd, entertaining the audience with his own brand of Dub Poetry from his new book 'In the Morning Yah.' His animated persona and liveliness started a taste of what was yet to come. Army Gideon, with the ever so talented lead singer, guitarist, violinist, as well as other instruments, Anbesa Tafari, gave a stellar performance. It was the best I have ever seen Army Gideon perform. In addition to their original tunes, they performed some classics, and the audience sang along. Ky-Mani Marley and his Konfrontation Band sizzled. The fans seemed to know all the lyrics to his tunes from new album 'Maestro', and weren't afraid to sing along.
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The Marley legacy consisting of JoMersa Marley, Skip Marley, and Ky-Mani's son Kaston (KJ) and his younger brother, joined Ky-Mani onstage. The Marley family featured each grandson and closed out Ky-Mani's set with 'One Love,' as the audience joined in. The anticipated moment arrived. Chronixx started his set with a prayer praising Haile Selassie I, King of Kings, Lord of Lords. Chronixx band, Zincfence Redemption, consists of some musical legacies of its own. Stephen Coore, son of 'Cat' Coore', Joshua 'Flubz' Jones, and Nnamdi Robinson are all sons of famous musicians. Chronixx just keeps getting better and better. His set is tight, ,and his energy seems never ending. They recently performed at Coachella, a great honor. Tunes from the new mixtape 'Roots & Chalice were part of his set, and they are embarking on a worldwide tour of the same name. This was one of the best concerts Miami has witnessed in awhile. Check out Wynwood Yard's schedule, lots going on there. Kulcha Shok Muzik's Reggae Sundays are not to be missed. See you there ~
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Guyana 50th Year of Independence Stabroek Market
St. George's Cathedral
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Guyana 50th Celebrations
Capt. Gouvia, Minister of State Harmon, Skip Roberts, George Maynard & Derek Basdeo Honorees included Larry London, Wesley Kirton & Capt. Gouveia flanked by George Maynard and the Honorable Wayne Messam, Mayor Of the City of Miramar.
Hon. Joseph Harmon Minister of State Joy Agness with Captain Gerry Gouveia & Hon. Joseph Harmon Minister of State
Tassa Drummers with Honorary Consul of Guyana, Ramzan Roshanali, Mistress of Ceremonies, Neki Mohan & Joy Agness
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Call our Office today for Special Fares to : Guyana's 50th Independence Celebrations, Antigua & Barbuda 60th Carnival, Barbados 50th Celebrations & Crop Over
Toll Free 1-877-220-8315 14
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Harris Rosen - the Man Behind the Rosen Empire
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by Sandra Fatmi & Jonathan Blount
aribbean American Passport Newsmagazine Reporter Sandra Fatmi sat with Hotelier, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Harris Rosen to get an update on what he has done in the community, his Initiatives in Haiti, and what lies ahead. We met at Harris Rosen’s first hotel that he bought for $20,000 in 1974 and surprisingly where he currently still keeps his office, in a few converted motel rooms at the Quality Inn at 7600 International Drive. His office wall and space reflects, his love of his family, his philanthropic work, guests throughout the years at his hotels and hero’s that have shaped his life. He once lived at this same location for approximately 16 years, so the sentiments are deep rooted. Fast forward to today. He now owns over seven properties with over 7,000 rooms. Now the property that launched Harris Rosen's hospitality empire has a new name - the Rosen Inn International - an indication that Rosen's independent brand is proving successful.
ceed 3.0 in the coming years, and as of 2016 the high school graduation rate is 100%, with 77% attending College.
For the past 25 years this self-made billionaire’s name is synonymous with giving back. It has often been said that he spent the first half of his life making money, and the second half giving back though his Harris Rosen Foundation. Some of his countless community projects include but are not limited to financially contributing to many institutions such as Evans High School, Jones High School, The Central Florida Urban League, The YMCA, the Jewish Community Center in South Orlando, working with non-profit organizations in Haiti and his most talked about to date, adopting the neighborhood of Tangelo Park.
without a guarantee that the project would be successful. So as of today, he has formed a working relationship with Food for the Poor, an organization currently successful in their endeavors in Haiti to build a Kindergarten through 6th Grade school to be opened later this year, and if all goes as planned a Medical Clinic to follow.
In the early 1990’s Rosen adopted the underserved community known as “Tangelo Park” a neighborhood with approximately 840 homes and approximately 3,000 plus residents. Crime was very high and the graduation rate was 25%. Over the years he has provided the funds to enable free preschool education for all children prior to kindergarten and free college education for all high school graduates. The program runs through the collaboration of four Tangelo community organizations: Tangelo Park Elementary School, the Tangelo Park YMCA, the Tangelo Baptist Church and the Tangelo Park Civic Association. Today, the results of the Tangelo Park Program have simply positively changed a neighborhood. The Tangelo Park Elementary School has been an “A” rated Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test school for the past eight years. Crime rates have declined steadily, the students Grade Point Averages (GPAs) have risen dramatically– and are predicted to ex-
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As of today, Harris Rosen is pledging to duplicate the Tangelo Park Program in Orlando's Parramore neighborhood, and has reached out to additional donors, sponsors and educational supporters to help positively transform this downtown community with approximately 2,000 children, to increase the graduation rate and decrease crime. Harris Rosen and Eldine Magnan of Rosen Centre discussed the Haiti Initiative. Mr. Rosen has been working in Haiti for approximately 20 years, and over the years he has delivered approximately 300 water filtration systems, as well as several hundred school and medical supplies. After the earthquake in 2010, he met with several non-profit organizations including the Catholic Church in reference to working on a housing project, but ran into land issues, and difficulties
What lies ahead for the Rosen Legacy is clear….. Two of his four children are already working in the business, with the possibility of his daughter coming on board to continue enhancing the Rosen brand. Because he “never wants to hear the word inequality and education” mentioned in the same sentence, his biggest desire is to have everyone financially capable “adopt a neighborhood,” but until that happens he will continue to do what he has been doing for over 20 years one neighborhood at a time.
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Guyana 50/50 Recognizing the TOP 50 Guyanese in Florida
Nominations Received (to date):
Submit yours with the category today @ CAPnominations@caribbeanamericanpassport.com
Judge Majeed
Rick Singh Gail Seeram Naresh & Nadia Boodhoo Dr. Coggins Andy King Ramzan Roshanah Ali Paul & Anita Singh Lloyd Philips Hari Singh Star & Rosemarie Moonasar Ravi & Zorida Manoo Wesley Kirton Sybille Pritchard Clayton Chand Kash Ramnarain Harry Subraj
Joy Agness Ian Moffett Narish & Diana Singh Dionne Polite John Yates Glen Lall Larry London Vani Lowton Cecil 'Skip' Roberts Harry Bissoon Joy Anderson Chub Bedessee Conrad Taylor Ephraim Adams Creig Camacho Laini Schultz Mark Rodgriguez Lalman Persaud
Lakeram Narain Sukree Boodram Russ Permal David Anderson Rudy Thackurdeen Maya Trotz A.A. Ali Ralph Seeram Lennox Griffith Allan Gopie Brian Bacchus Mark Bannister Sam & Guenet Roberts George Maynard Frank Cummings Romeco (Maya Dance Studio)
The Guyana 50/50 Awards Gala will be held on November 5th in Orlando The winners, with the most votes, will be announced and honored at the Gala
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By Ryan Davis Can Haiti be the Cinderella of the tournament? It COPA CENTENARIO 2016 remains to be seen. The second biggest competition in U.S. soccer history will land on America’s shores on June 3rd. The Copa America, The Contenders the sport’s oldest organized tournament is turning 100 and The favorites list begins with World Cup and Copa the Caribbean, Central and North America are all invited to America runner’s up Argentina. Led by superstar Leo the party for the first time ever. The Caribbean will be well Messi, EL Albiceleste will be bringing enough World represented by both Jamaica and Haiti. Class talent to fill two teams. Disappointed in coming up short in their last two major tournaments, players Jamaica - The Reggae Boyz are looking to build off of their such as Angel Di Maria, Sergio Aguero and Javier incredible performances in 2015. They finished 2nd in the Mascherano will need to be instrumental if Argentina Gold Cup to Mexico last summer and followed it up with a are to win their first FIFA recognized trophy in twenty good showing at the Copa America in Chile a month later. three years. They are led by their captain Wes Morgan. The tall Center Brazil’s decision to exclude Neymar from this Back is not only at the heart of this Jamaican team he is also summer’s tournament and save him for the Olympics the captain of the newly crowned English Premier League in Rio means El Selecao slips to second on the list champions Leicester City. The Reggae Boyz rely on their behind their arch rivals. Nevertheless, Dunga is defensive abilities to frustrate their opponents and to create bringing with him the next wave of Brazilian talent. counter attacks. In Copa America 2015 they were drawn Rising star Douglas Costa (Bayern, GER), Willian with powerhouses Argentina and Uruguay and to a lesser (Chelsea, ENG), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool, ENG) degree Paraguay where they only conceded three goals in as and a host of other attacking talent. Guided by many games veterans Dani Alvez and Kaka, Brazil will have more If defense is the strength of this team, scoring goals is it’s than enough fire power to waltz thru to the final and weakness. They failed to score a single goal last year in Chile take home the cup. and are finding goals hard to come by in their present World Cup qualifying campaign. The Reggae Boyz are going Uruguay is the tournament’s dark horse. They do to have to rely on forwards Clayton Donaldson not boast the same amount of talent as their other two (Birmingham, Eng), Jamar Loza (Norwich City, ENG) and South American counterparts but they play to their the speedy Darren Mattocks (Portland Timbers, USA) to strengths, a steady defense led by Diego Godin provide some goals if they are to advance in the tournament. (Atletico, SPA), a disciplined midfield and spearheaded by the best forward on the planet Luis Suarez (Barcelona, SPA). La Celeste may have just Haiti - This is the year of the underdog. Leicester City enough to sneak away with a record sixteenth Copa shocked the world by overcoming 5000/1 odds in winning America title. the English Premier League. Les Grenadiers will take some comfort in that achievement knowing they too face what Chile -The current title holders, are fourth on this seems to be insurmountable odds in advancing from their list, for the mere reason their brilliant coach Jorge group. Sampoli stepped down from his post due to salary issues. Sampoli created a structure and philosophy Haiti finished sixth in the CONCACF Gold Cup last within the national team that brought a mixture of summer, the highest in the nation’s history. This put them style and grit which in turn led to La Roja’s first Copa in position to qualify for this summer’s Copa America America title last year. However since his exit Chile Centenario, beating Trinidad and Tobago 1-0 in a just hasn’t looked the same. Their stars Alexi Sanchez qualification playoff. (Arsenal, ENG) and Vidal (Bayern, GER) are fully fit Haiti will be looking to their rock solid defense led by for this summer’s tournament which is enough to Roman Genevois (Nice, FRA), Regional Goreux (Standard make the holders contenders again. Liege, BEL) and their keeper Johny Placide (Stade de Remis, FRA) to anchor their back line. For the first time ever in this tournament’s illustrious In attack, midfielder Jeff Louis (Caen,FRA), forwards history, the Copa America will be held outside of Duleus Nazon (Laval,FRA) and Kervens Belfort (1461 South America. The fact that the US were the ones Trabzon, TUR) will be looked upon to provide enough goals selected in front of long time participant Mexico and opportunities to compete in their group. speaks volumes about how far American soccer has progressed. These 32 matches spread out over 10 Faced with the unenviable task of playing the mighty Brazil cities ending with the final in East Rutherford New on June 8thin Orlando, the Haitians will have to find a way Jersey on June 26th will only continue to strengthen to win their opening match against Peru on June 4th America’s stride in their pursuit of one day becoming arguably their weakest opponent, before taking on another a soccer super power South American contender in Ecuador four days later.
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THE POWER OF SEEDS Hemp seeds, Chia seeds and Flax seeds are packed with vitamins, minerals and protein. Theses seeds contains powerful nutrients and can easily be incorporated into your daily meals in a very simple way. Hemp Seeds: You can sprinkle hemp seeds on your salad. You can also make your smoothie with hemp seeds, and you can add it to your morning cereal as well. Hemp seeds supplies protein, Omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron and zinc. Chia Seeds: You can make chia pudding with chia seeds. You can also add chia seeds to your smoothie, and your cereal. Chia seeds also supply Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and B vitamins Niacin and Thiamine. Chia seeds can also replace eggs in bake goods. Flax Seeds: Flax seeds can add crunch to your cereal. It is recommended to grind the seeds before you eat them or add them to your smoothie. Flax seeds supplies fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins and minerals.
For information about the class call 407-730-30488 or visit www.vegantuneupcafe.com Jamaican-Born Sandi Morais has a BA degree from Florida International
Uni-versity. She is the author of Recipe for Life vegan/vegetarian cook book. Sandi has been featured in local and national magazines. Sandi teaches a vegan cooking class at La Vie Wellness Spa www.lavieexperience.com To order Recipe for Life vegan/vegetarian cook book visit www.sandimorais.net
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Fit Like A Ras By Jeremy Roberts - NASM
Mother’s Day
B
ig ups to all de muddas dem out deh! Ihope everyone took de time to do something nice fuh dey mudda, even if y’all had nutting but arguments growin’ up. Anyting we could do fuh mek life nice, we should do.
Of course, de one ting we could do fuh we muddas dat we probably don’ do is encourage dem fuh do some exercise. I sure if dey don’t already do something, dey got a ton a excuses. But as you know, there’s always a way around dem excuses. You just got to find it.
GT Dread is an NASM-CPT, who competes in Masters Track, Field Hockey and Weightlifting. He can be contacted at fitlikearas@gmail.com
be healthy and enjoy life. Movement is a part of that. An’ if youse a mudda, you want de same tings fuh yuhself …..and yuh should still wan’ LGN (I hope y’all never forget wha’ dat stan’ fuh. Las’ reminder: Look Good Naked!). Maybe even – as disgusting as it might be fuh tink about – yuh mudda too might still wan’ dat! So, de tek away is: don’ mek motherhood be your excuse for not moving. In fact, it should be yuh motivation, since yuh wan’ be modellin’ a positive example. An’ get yuh mudda up an’ movin in some way, shape or form (that’s appropriate!). Big up.
If dey back hurtin’, mek dem do something lyin’ down, or from a position why dey back don’ hurt. Dey could wuk pon mobility and stretching. If yuh know dey ain gon do it alone, offer to do it wid dem. Ol’ people like dey chirren to come roun’ occasionally. Or so I hear.
EARN A COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FROM RIHANNA www.claralionelfoundation.org
Rihanna has announced a global scholarship program through her Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF), which will award scholarships to international and U.S. students going to college in the U.S. “To be able to give the gift of an education is actually an honor,” says Rihanna. “Higher education will help provide perspective, opportunities and learning to a group of kids who really deserve it. I am thrilled to be able to do this.”
An’ if you readin’ dis an’ youse a mudda, I hope you settin’a good example fuh yuh pickney dem. Yuh nevah know if dey gon follow yuh example – Dread got 2 lazy ass chirren! – but all you could do is set de example. Mek sure de couch ain’t shape to your particular backside. Get out an’ move. As always, be safe. Don’t force anyting dat can cause injury or even death. If you ol’ lady deh pon a oxygen mask, sprinting might be out a de question. Tek it slow. All yuh want is fuh yuh mudda to
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In order to be eligible, applicants must be residents of Barbados, Brazil, Cuba, Haiti, Guyana, Jamaica, or the U.S., and have already been accepted into a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited four-year college or university in the United States for the 2016-2017 year. The scholarship is based on need and the number of students will vary, but the goal is to accept as many students as possible, according to the announcement. Scholarships granted will range from $5,000 to $50,000 and may be renewed for up to three additional years or until a bachelor’s degree is earned, whichever occurs first.
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Eagles -
Eagles are admired the world over as living symbols of power, freedom and transcendence.
A
biding in Christ Ministries opened their doors 2010 in Florida on the pinnacle that all people have innate abilities and potentials to soar like eagles. The vision of this ministry covers the entire family; their vision is a holistic approach to the grooming of their members to experience life to its fullest.
What are we known for? We are known for our spiritual training so individuals are empowered to take control of their lives through Christ to success. As a ministry we provide religious worship, education and fellowship. We want to find ourselves feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, healing the sick, teaching Christ’s and Kingdom’s principles to others. We strive to help people realize their true individual and spiritual potential. AiCM
Rosemarie Roth believes this community center will allow supportive organizations to reside within the facility as it is open to the public. It’s a win for everyone. It is true for the both organizations “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 Watch them soar! Many opportunities are available for the community and individuals to get involved. Either through participation as a leader, a volunteer or a sponsor. Pastor Nick and Pastor Rosemarie wait with open arms for your arrival. They can be found at 385 South Pearl Lake Causeway, Altamonte Springs Friday – Sunday from 10:30 a.m. – 12 :30 p.m. www.abidinginchristministries.com Or call Rosemarie Roth at 352-321-0932.
Nick Zamfir brought a vision of soaring to higher heights from his home country of Romania to America. The core of his beliefs and teachings begin with the “soul” of man. The “living soul” as was announced by God in Genesis. His authoritative stand comes from God’s instruction to “man” Adam to take dominion over the earth. So it puzzles him when he sees people living lives of defeat. His first advice to anyone is to take “dominion” “charge” over negativities and project the God given power that is within.
Where do we begin? Alpha Point, founded by Rosemarie Roth a Jamaican, through the moving of the Spirit to always begin with God and everything else will be added. Alpha Point is all about reaching out to the community and to provide resources to assist anyone to self-sufficiency. From the “womb to the tomb”.
Abiding in Christ Ministries purchased a free standing structure of fifteen thousand, one hundred and ninety two square feet of air conditioned space on one point eight six acres (1.86). The acquisition of this property demonstrates the determination and commitment of the people through their financial contribution. With this determination they are preparing for the next phase of the vision of reaching out into the community with a commercial kitchen with sub-stations for students or for competitions, a daily television program proclaiming the good news with answers to prayers, several worship services, professional networking, educational programs to include a healthy lifestyle program and a food pantry. Not to forget about the free weddings and the honoring of our senior citizens, police, nurses and teachers. www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com
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by Kamal Abdool
C
Trinidad and Tobago
urtis Junior Pierre a national of Trinidad and Tobago was buried on Tuesday May 10th 2016. I looked at a at a photo of this sixteen year old through the eyes of a father and thought of an earlier time when I was sixteen and the product of a wonderful childhood, a boy raised by both parents and a village. I felt sorry for Curtis, then sadness and ultimately anger. Curtis was beaten into a coma by villagers who were protecting the store owner. You see Curtis and an accomplice conducted an armed holdup in Claxton Bay, South Trinidad. Curtis chased after the owner when her son and other villagers joined in to administer a beating that led to his death. As expected his mother remembered Curtis as a wonderful child who attended Sunday School. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding his death, a mother must and should invoke the fond memories. I read the reports in three daily TT newspapers searching for a response from his father. No mention of Curtis' father or whether he passed on. It is not my intent to dictate to others or act condescending. Sharing some thoughts with the hope that every child has access to success and happiness. There are over thirty things I can do on my smart phone that we didn't have access to growing up in rural Trinidad. Television, Radio, Camera, Calculator, Music and off course the Internet. We made our toys, scooters and box carts. We were poor by today's standard but we didn't know we were poor. No peer pressure as the other boys had to make their own tops and tractors from the wood bobbin of a 500 yard thread. It’s a different world today, much more stuff and peer pressure if you don't have your stuff. For a teenager today a computer is not a luxury but a necessity and will be under severe peer pressure if they didn't have a smart phone. It is very difficult to properly equip kids today on a single income household and I salute the many mothers that do.
cultural products needed for the School Feeding Program. I know Trini men and once they know a labor camp is in their future well, if you think George W Bush didn't know when to pull out of Iraq. We don't live in the Dark Ages. There's something called Birth Control and Ladies, investigate the man who'll father your child. Can he afford to? As I was writing this column learnt of the passing of my hero Tony Cozier. My boyhood friends wanted to be like Garry Sobers or Rohan Kanhai. Not me, I wanted to be a cricket commentator like Tony Cozier. I met my hero when I was sixteen and on visits to Barbados looked him up at the Nations newspaper office. As Tony Cozier entered Heaven's Door I envisioned his fellow cricket commentators who went before, John Arlott, Brian Johnson and Ritchie Benaud, welcomed him to the microphone with the news that the West Indian cricketers in Heaven will play a Test Match against the Rest of the World. Tony Cozier smiled, the memories flooded the commentary box as he read the West Indies Test Team selected. 1. Conrad Hunte 2. Roy Fredericks 3. George Headley 4. Frank Worrell 5. Clyde Walcott 6. Collie Smith
I believe one of the contributors to the upsurge of crime in Trinidad and Tobago is the breakdown of the two parent home. Yes, divorce happens. However you got to build on a foundation of marriage first and then children. In the United States we have the perfect example in President and Michelle Obama. That is as good as it gets. We did not have a similar example in Trinidad and Tobago as our Prime Minister was a single father and we never saw a photograph of Dr Williams with a wife or significant other. Three of our recent heroes, Brian Lara, Dwayne Bravo and Dwight Yorke have fathered children outside of marriage. Another Caribbean hero, Chris Gayle, also fathered a child outside marriage. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not the marriage police and the four Caribbean heroes mentioned have the resources to ensure a quality of life for their offsprings. We have to hold men accountable for providing for their children and I believe the time has come in Trinidad and Tobago to institute labor camps where men and in some cases women work to generate funds to pay for the upkeep of their children. These labor camps can provide the agri-
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7. Gerry Alexander 8. Learie Constantine 9. Malcolm Marshall 10. Sylvester Clarke 11. Alf Valentine.
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