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CONTENTS| SPRING 2017 8

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Raquel Pelissier

Miss Haiti 2016 @raquelpelissier Photographer @fredericgeorges Accesories @attitudebylory Location @moulinsurmer MUA @mattidomingue Style @chrispuesan

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CONTENTS | SPRING 2017

85

24

36

76

87

Destinations & Hotels | 16

Business Leaders | 56

Île-à-Vache Royal Decameron Palm Inn Hotel Port Morgan Restaurant

Phillip J Brutus Prinston Jean-Glaude Jeff Lozama Evans St. Fort Jean Marc Sorel Sophia Gedeon Darlancia Joseph Max V. Borieux

Health & Wellness | 36 Dr. Angelo E. Gousse Dr. Romane Joseph Dr. F. Lucie Casthely Dr. Patrick Romeus Dr. Clones Lans, Dr. Hans Jean-Baptiste, and Dr. Thomas Toussaint Dr. Mogin Antoine Dr. Jim Francois Dr. Franklin Casthely Carter Wiggins & Associates

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Attractions & Things To Do | 76 Bassin Blue Citadelle Galerie Nader Place Saint-Pierre Marche en Fer Museum Ogier-Fombrun Papillon Enterprise Kokoye Beach Musee du Pantheon

TALK TO US

We want to hear about your visit to Haiti.

Send your reviews and photos to reviews@haitiopen.com

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JEAN ALFRED DELVA Founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief @alfred_haitopen JeanDelva.com 305-842-3555 JOHNY LUC Photographer @redlightphotos 954-348-2451 CREDITS: pages 27, 41, 43, 45, 47, 51, 56-61, 64, 65, 67 SARAH BRUTUS Writer @sarahprworldwide 305-206-0300 CREDITS: pages 56-63 FRÉDÉRIC GEORGES Photographer @fredericgeorges CREDITS: cover photo, pages 10, 72-74 SAMUEL DAMEUS Photographer @samueldameus CREDITS: pages 40, 44, 50, 90, MENDES CHEVALIER Graphic Design mendes_1812 786-267-0108 CREDITS: cover and outisde cover artwork, pages 2, 23, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 71 Proofreader Alec Ross Layout Mohammad "MA" Alaudin Photographers: Mackinley "Spex" Madhere Richard Lecoin Hugue-Robert Marsan Steve Bennett Al Duke Frederick Alexis Writers: Marie-Junie Pierre Nandy Latour Skite Polis Megan Collier Shannon Bullman Cover Photo Credits: Photographer @fredericgeorges Accesories @attitudebylory MUA @mattidomingue Style @chrispuesan Representatives: JIMMY MOISE, Expansion Director jmoise@haitiopen.net PETERSON AGENORD, Haiti +509 3488-2714 MELISSA ETIENNE, Haiti +509 3728-8962 MOISE ST LOUIS, New York mlouis@haitiopen.net JEAN PHILIPP BEAULIEU, Los Angeles jpbeaulieu@haitiopen.net MARIO CADET, Ottawa, Canada mcadet@haitiopen.net GUSTI LABATTE-DENEAU, Port St. Lucie gdeneau@haitiopen.net

HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

SAMARA TACHISE, Atlanta stachise@haitiopen.net

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Lite kont piki moustik!

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Mete pwodwi anti-moustik sou po w ak rad ou pou kenbe moustik lwen pandan w deyò.

DRENNENepiKOUVRI

Pou rapòte nwizans moustik, rele 311 oswa telechaje aplikasyon mobil gratis nou an, 311 Direct. #DrainAndCoverMiami

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www.miamidade.gov/mosquito«

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DESTINATION

Île-à-Vache, Haiti

The Last Pristine Island in The Caribbean

By Skite Polis HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

Photo by Steve Bennett

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H

aiti’s fascinating tourism moves seamlessly from the historical to fun activities like hiking, beach excursions, and even cultural immersion through museum tours.

But nothing compares to the allure of its southwest island called, Île-à-Vache.

This pristine island lies roughly six miles off the coast of Les Cayes.

From Les Cayes, the nearest city, you can take a boat ride directly to the island. This is the easiest way to get to the island, though you can also get there by helicopter. The island has two resort hotels, the Port Morgan and the Abaka Bay. Between them they have more than enough rooms to host large groups.

Comparing these two hotels is futile as they have an equal footing in the efforts they make to give all their guests an unforgettable experience on the island. If you like facing the beach in the morning, right out of your bed, then go for Abaka Bay, otherwise Port Morgan will do fine, although it can be crowded at times because it is more budget friendly.

Since most of the locals live on the main island, the island’s shorelines are largely untouched. You could easily find yourself alone on a pristine, white, sandy beach, perfect for a romantic walk or if you just want some alone time. Imagine standing on warm sandy beach, turquoise waters as far as your eyes can see. Take some

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snorkeling gear with you too, as water visibility is excellent.

The two hotels mentioned are not the only choices. In fact, if you enjoy socializing, you can literally stay on the island for free, plus you could get to experience life on the island the way the locals do. You can even eat home cook meals. Fresh seafoods available include conch and lobster, although you can always ask for other stuff like chicken. Staying with

Île-à-Vache, Haiti was once the base of operations of the famous pirate, Captain Henry Morgan (c.1635–1688). It was from here he sailed out to attack French ships.

a fisherman and his family may seem too much of a backpacker’s idea, but for fun’s sake, it’s totally worth it.

They’re not only friendly, they can also give you hints on where to go to find really secluded spots that only the locals know of.

Talking about hints, if you choose to stay in Abaka Bay, you may find it pricy, but again, it’s worth it since the hotel sits right on the beautiful beach of Grande Anse Dufour.

It’s also a short walk to another secluded beach, the Petite Anse Dufour. As for the other lodgings, or if you choose to stay in one of the humble houses of the villagers, distances vary from 45 minutes to over an hour of walking to reach these amazing beaches. A pleasant walk to the beach could actually be more fun considering you will experience more scenic spots, like the mesmerizing lagoon atop a hill covered with mangroves. Perfect for photo shoots.

Have fun, and don’t forget to experience the pristine waters of Petite Anse Dufour beach.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Île-à-Vache, Haiti Transportation: Boat ride from Les Cayes Hotels nearby: Abaka Bay, Port Morgan Restaurants nearby: Restaurants at the resorts

Abaka Bay Resort , Ile-a-Vache, CNN 2013 World’s 100 Best Beaches

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JET SKI

Summer Water Activities at the Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort & Spa

By Skite Polis HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

SAILING

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The resort’s spectacular water activities vary in terms of skill, but there’s always something for everyone.

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f one resort can make your visit to Haiti as relaxing as slouching on your couch, it’s the Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort & Spa. It has the distinction of class mixed with a dash of friendliness. This is Caribbean island travel at its best – so don’t even think of erasing it from your travel bucket list!

KAYAKING

SCUBA DIVING Besides its perfect location, the resort exudes the aura of an authentic Caribbean destination (strategically sitting at the heart of the wonderful Caribbean Islands).

This allows you to have a relaxing, holistic vacation, which is what defines the Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort & Spa. The hotel is

amazing, and if you’d rather call it a Graceland Island, it will deliver.

The Royal Decameron is an hour’s drive from the Port-au-Prince International Airport, and the road to the resort traverses beautiful mountains brushed by gentle Caribbean breezes. At the end of this splendid drive you’ll find Haiti’s

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BOAT EXCURSIONS popular La Cotes des Arcadins, on top of which sits the Royal Decameron.

The Royal Decameron offers activities for everyone – children and adults. So check out what follows, unless you literally just want to laze in the sun with the pearly white sandy beach warming and tickling your toes.

For the easiest water fun, nothing beats a Boat Charter. If you have an elderly person or a toddler traveling with you, you won’t have to leave them in your room to explore the island. A boat charter is the perfect way to cruise the island in style and comfort. It’s a very laid-back activity that will take you and your family to one of several popular destinations on the island: the Anse à Galet sandbar, Anse à Pirogue beach, Arcadins Islands, Anse à Raisin, and Mikaz Beach. Planning to propose, perhaps? Then maybe cruising on the calm waters of the bay at sunset will warm the heart of your beloved and result on that sweet “Yes.” Banana Boat or tubbing are two other fun water activities that will certainly add excitement to your Royal Decameron stay. Perfect for a group of friends or a family, Banana Boats are mainly used for cruising Haiti’s warm and turquoise beach waters. The variety of sea life in the Caribbean is superb, and every HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

Banana Boat passenger can see through the clear waters below the surface. As an extra twist, tubbing can also be used to play naughty tricks on your friends (all in good fun, of course).

For more traditional laid-back water fun, nothing fits the definition more than the Tap Tap Boat. If you love Haitian culture or are simply nostalgic for what it feels like to live beside the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the popular Tap Tap Boat offers unforgettable excursions that allow you to witness Haiti’s mesmerizing scenery in all its glory.

Feel pampered and cared for while pretending to be a boatman, or jump overboard and do some proper snorkeling. The pleasant ocean breeze, coupled with the gentle waves, can literally lull you to sleep.

Now, if you’d prefer a blisteringly fast ride over the Haitian waters, definitely check out a Jet Ski Tour. This provides an excellent opportunity to explore the Caribbean coast and get an adrenaline rush at the same time.

Consider the excitement this offers and the speed at which you can cruise the calm waters. A guide will take you to the most interesting places on Haitian coast. This is the perfect activity to share with friends or family. An hour spent on a Jet Ski Tour can definitely help create

that unforgettable island dream you crave.

For a truly special experience, snorkeling is the way to go. Royal Decameron love it because of the variety of fish and corals that can be seen at shallow depths in the warm waters. This is perfect for beginning divers. Of course, advanced snorkelers are also welcome, because the package includes a boat and crew that make stops at places not far from the hotel - the Isles Arcadins, Trou Forban, Anse à Pirogue and Anse à Galet. The crew can take you to quiet snorkeling spots where you can see an abundance of marine life.

Imagine slowly swimming over a ball of beautiful urchins or colorful and pristine untouched corals – colorful surprises are everywhere on the reef.

If these kinds of water activities aren’t for you, you can always cool off in the resort’s two pools, the largest in Haiti. Or sweat it out at the Aqua Gym or Zumba lessons whilst enjoying the pop music in the background. “All-inclusive” means you have it all under one roof – and at the Royal Decameron, you do.

509-2815-0111 (Haiti) | 1-855-308-0375 (USA) Decameron.com / reservations.haiti@decameron.com @decameronhaiti

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A Hidden Oasis Five Minutes Away from the Port-au-Prince Airport

Offering everything from free breakfast, free WiFi and free outdoor swimming pool, Palm Inn knows what it takes to make your trip unforgettable.

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hen we travel, the place that we make our temporary home has just as much affect on the trip as the sights we see and the food we eat. It is a major component of the overall experience and if it’s lacking in comfort, it can really take a toll on how we feel about our vacation.

Offering everything from free breakfast, free WiFi and free outdoor swimming pool, Palm Inn knows what it takes to make your trip unforgettable. If you’re not yet convinced, here are just a few reasons why you should choose Palm Inn on your next trip to Haiti.

THE ACCOMMODATIONS

The rooms available at the Palm Inn are the definition of modern living.

Looking like a photo straight from a Pinterest Board, the rooms are tastefully decorated in a way that looks both organic and mindfully pieced together.

Rooms and suites range from singles to

triples and come with an air conditioner, refrigerator, oven, radio, cable television and hot water.

THE FANTASTIC REVIEWS

Travelers depend on reviews more than ever these days. Seasoned travelers often confess that they base their final decisions on accommodation by reviews alone. The Palm Inn has gained quite the reputation on well known sites such as Tripadvisor with an overall rating of excellence. It’s rating summary is high, receiving nothing less than a four or five out of five in all categories.

THE AMENITIES

Besides spacious modern rooms and beautifully manicured grounds, the Palm Inn has other amenities that guests find especially impressive. With a crystal blue, in-ground pool, fast internet and helpful staff, guests find that they have everything they need in a home to come back to after a long day of sightseeing. They even have an onsite restaurant too!

THE CONVENIENCE

The superb staff goes above and beyond just making sure you have clean towels and a map to get around. This hotel offers the convenience of shuttle services and car rentals to get you around quicker and safer while visiting Haiti.

Address: #3 , Hatte3, Delmas 31, Port-au-Prince HT6120, Haiti Site: www.palminnhotel.com Phone: +509 29 47 4266

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Where to Eat in Île-à-Vache

Port Morgan Restaurant

By Megan Collier

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ocated in lle-a-Vache and part of the L’anse a’Leau Beach House lies the popular and very loved Port Morgan Restaurant where guests can take a break from exploring the areas treasures, diving into the pristine waters and simply enjoy an exquisite

meal. Greeted by warm and friendly staff who will show you to your table of choice before looking up to find the first reason so many have come to love this restaurant; the setting in which it lies within.

With a constantly changing menu depending on the fresh catch of the day, Port Morgan offers diverse choices when it comes to deciding what to indulge in during your

visit. Ranging from shrimps and rock lobster to perfectly grilled and seasoned fish, there is always plenty to choose from and the guarantee of never leaving hungry.

So, sit back, relax and sip on your favorite drink of choice while you gaze in wonder at the picture perfect sight just before your eyes and enjoy an authentic and oh-so-satisfying Haitian meal.

Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the beach, waters and sky that will have you feeling as if you were now on top of the island.

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Phone: (509) – 39 21 00 00 E-mail: info@port-morgan.com Location: 18°06’63” North - 73°41’78” West

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CEDRIC DUMORNAY

Inspired as a young boy in Haiti by watching 'A Raising in the Sun', starring the legendary actor Sidney Poitier. Now he's looking forward to working with another acting legend, James Earl Jones.

@CedricDumornay imdb.com/cedricdumornay

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edric was born in New York City but raised in Haiti for approximately 13 years. There is where he encountered his love for cinema when his parents

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subscribed to a satellite provider. He began to watch American TV programs produced by Disney Channel and Nickelodeon. He realized he wanted a career in film after having watched films such as Gone with the Wind and A Raisin in the Sun starring Sidney Poitier.

When his parents moved to the U.S in 2003 Cedric pursued acting through commercials and theatre performances. At the age of 17, Cedric took a workshop in Florida where Disney casting directors and a film/ TV agent discovered him. He was selected as the winner of a Disney competition, which resulted in him being mentored by Disney Executive Producer Irene Dreayer (Sister Sister, Smart Guy, Suite Life of Zack and Cody). He then went on various auditions and booked commercials towards the end of his high school career.

During his time at Florida Atlantic University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Performance, he fostered relationships with industry professionals in Florida and Los Angeles. While in college, Cedric was casted in his first short film Caught in The Middle.

After graduating, he decided to relocate to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams. Despite having moved alone in an unfamiliar city, Cedric was able to form meaningful relationships with industry professionals and obtain representation as an actor. His first meeting in LA was with casting director legends Janet Hirshenson and Jane Jenkins. He received his first TV credit on the show Tosh.0 on Comedy Central followed by his first film credit in LA playing a cowboy named Duncan in a western film titled Gold Rush.

While pursuing his acting career Cedric found interest behind the camera and started working as a crew member for shows like Hell’s Kitchen, Vacation Chasers, and commercials for BMW along with other major brands. Cedric was given the opportunity to produce when he signed on as an Associate Producer for a PSA titled Perspectives, which can now be streamed on Amazon.

Cedric continues to pursue his dreams as an actor while training and studying his craft. He hopes to continue his journey and progress by attending The Drama Centre in London for a year. His latest project is a film he co-wrote and hopes to bring to life with legendary actor James Earl Jones.

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Q&A

by Nandy Latour Q. WOW. I love your photoshoot in Haiti. You body is banging girl! Can you share some sculpting and defining exercise tips?

Thank you very much. To get your dream body, your diet is your best tool and the roots of it all.

For people who do not have access to a gym, I would advise them to go jogging or walking at least 30 minutes a day. Do sit-ups, pushups, stretches ... and those who go to the gym to work their body in a balanced way.

A.

Q. What is your biggest challenge on staying on track with a healthy lifestyle?

Having a healthy lifestyle is not easy; it takes a lot of discipline.

You need to fix some goals, keep on track, and do whatever it takes to reach those goals.

A.

Q. You know summer is all about pina coladas, margaritas and barbancourt lol, does alcohol have an effect with our fitness goals?

A.

JOANNA JEAN

Not at all, on the weekends we allow ourselves to have fun and have a life like everyone else.

Q&A

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Keeping the Love Alive

Modern treatments for male and female sexual dysfunction

Angelo E. Gousse, MD BOARD CERTIFIED UROLOGIST

MALE SEXUAL HEALTH

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is a condition in which it is hard for a man to get or keep an erection that’s firm enough for sex. ED affects as many as 30 million men.

Most men have problems with erections from time to time. But

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when it happens more than half of the time, then erectile dysfunction is present. ED can happen when health problems limit blood flow or damage nerves in the penis. It can also be caused by stress or emotional reasons. ED can be an early warning of a more serious illness. Heart disease, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar (diabetes) can all cause ED. If you’re male, finding and treating the cause(s) of your ED can help your sexual health and overall well-being.

The first steps are adequate rest, a healthy diet and regular exercise program. The next step is to take medications. When medications (pills) such as Cialis, Viagra, Levitra etc. no longer work, it might be time to try penile self-injections of “vasoactive” substances that can result in an immediate erection.

If you’re unable to tolerate penile injections or they don’t work, you might want to consider a penile external vacuum erection device (VED) that aspirates blood flow in

your penis to help with erections.

If all these 3 choices fail, the only remaining solution is a penile implant. There are three major types. A one-piece is malleable and is easy to insert, and had less complications, and requires no pump to inflate. However, it is difficult to conceal and has poor rigidity and penile girth. The two-piece penile prosthesis is easier to implant than the three-piece. However, its penile girth is not as good and the implant less natural compared to the three-piece. The three-piece penile prosthesis, the one I prefer to implant in my patients, is the most natural and gives you the best girth and rigidity. It also has the highest patient satisfaction rate.

Penile implant surgeries take about an hour and are typically done in an outpatient center. A man can resume sexual intercourse 6 weeks after surgery. Most insurance will pay for the surgery, which can cost anywhere from $14,000 to 18,000.

While men who have had

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Dysfunction (FSD). Many investigators have found that sexual dysfunction is more prevalent in women (43%) than in men (31%), and increases as women age. It has also been noted that married women have a lower risk of sexual dysfunction than unmarried women. Racial differences have also been noted. Hispanic women consistently report lower rates of sexual problems, whereas African American women have higher rates of decreased sexual desire and pleasure than do white women.

Sexual pain (dyspareunia), however, is more likely to occur in white women.

Pathophysiology The 3 Piece Penile Prosthesis Implant – Very High Patient Satisfaction Rate

Male Sexual Dysfunction Treatment Options

prosthesis surgery can see a small surgical scar, other people probably will not be unable to tell that a man has an inflatable penile prosthesis.

Most men would not be embarrassed in a locker room or public restroom, for example. Your sexual partner may never know that you have a penile prosthesis. When the penis is inflated, the prosthesis makes the penis stiff and thick, similar to a natural erection.

The prosthesis does not change sensation on the skin of the penis or a man’s ability to reach orgasm.

Ejaculation is not affected. A fertile man will continue to father children with the penile implant in place.

FEMALE SEXUAL HEALTH It is estimated that approximately 40 million American women are affected by Female Sexual

Although the exact cause of Female Sexual Dysfunction remains unknown, both physiologic and psychological components are believed to play a part. To better understand FSD, it is necessary to be familiar with normal female sexual function. Many changes occur in the female external and internal genitalia during sexual arousal.

Increased blood flow promotes what is called “vasocongestion of the genitalia”. Smooth muscle relaxation allows for lengthening and dilation of the vagina. As the clitoris is stimulated, its length and diameter increases, and engorgement with blood occurs. In addition, the labia minora becomes also engorged because of the increased blood flow. Vaginal temperature increases during arousal.

FSD is psychologically complex.

The female sexual response cycle

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was first characterized by Masters and Johnson in 1966 and included four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. In 1974, Kaplan modified this theory and characterized it as a three-phase model that included desire, arousal, and orgasm. It is now believed that various biologic and psychological factors can negatively affect this cycle, thereby leading to FSD. Hormonal changes, such as the drop in estrogen seen in post-menopausal women, can also greatly affect sexual desire and vaginal lubrication. Nerve and small vessel disorders seen in conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and cigarette smoking can also affect female sexual function. Women with hypertension and vascular problems are at very high risk of FSD because of diminished blood flow to their genitalia.

Female sexual dysfunction can be divided into five major subtypes: disorder of the libido (sexual desire); arousal dysfunction; vaginal lubrication disorders; disorders related to orgasm; and vaginismus and dyspareunia (painful intercourse).

Many women with FSD are affected by all or some of the subtypes.

Treatment

For many reasons, treatment options are more difficult and less established in women than in men.

Whileoral tablets such as Viagra, Cialis, Levitra – which are in the category of phosphodiasteraseinhibitors (PDE-5) – have been useful in male ED, they have little value in women. Hormonal manipulation, while often helpful in FSD, must be weighed very carefully against possible side effects such as weight gain or cardiovascular risks. Vacuum erection devices of the clitoris, while available for women, have not been widely used for clitoral engorgement and arousal disorders. Women with lubrication disorders (i.e., dry vagina) can be treated with estrogen vaginal cream or lubricants. This often alleviates dyspareunia (painful intercourse).

Psychological counseling and sexual

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therapy remain at the forefront of FSD that is related to sexual intimacy or psychological disorders. Often, a multispecialty approach is most effective. Women suffering from FSD who desire treatment are best treated with clinicians who specialize in the area.

The US FDA approval of Addyi (Flibanserin) on August 18th, 2015 was a landmark event for female sexual dysfunction in the United States. This medication was the first oral treatment approved for Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder, and the first real FDA-approved treatment for female sexual dysfunction in general.

The arrival of the “Female Viagra” (also called “The pink pill”) was extremely well publicized and sensationalized; however, its scientific background and mechanism has not been well explained in the context of female sexual arousal and interest disorders. For women, the chemistry of their primary sexual organ appears to exist in the brain.

Therefore, brain chemistry must be altered to treat female sexual dysfunction.

Flibanserin is a 5HT-1A agonist, 5HT-2A antagonist that works primarily in the brain to increase dopamine and norepinephrine and decrease serotonin levels.

Dopamine and norepinephrine function as “excitatory” hormones to increase sexual desire, while serotonin is an “inhibitory” hormone that depresses sexual function and desire. This medication thus helps make the brain environment “ready” for sexual function, and helps augment sexual desire. Women with normal clitoral blood flow and adequate lubrication are then able to participate in healthy, satisfying sexual experiences.

We also know that the sex hormone testosterone influences

female sexual desire and practice.

This hormone is present in women, albeit in smaller amounts than men, but is well known to be integral to sexual responsiveness and desire in women. Clinicians have used testosterone replacement therapy in women to augment sexual desire and libido, with mixed results.

in the 21st century, we finally have the ability to successfully treat female sexual dysfunction.

BLADDER HEALTH AND RECONSTRUCTIVE UROLOGY INSTITUTE: 1951 SW 172 Avenue, Suite 305, Miramar, FL, 33029 954-362-2720 | Website: www.bladder-health.net

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HOW TO LOWER YOUR RISK OF BREAST CANCER

By Dr. Romane Joseph, MD GENERAL SURGERY SPECIALIST

“One in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer during her lifetime”.

• Breast cancer can be serious.

However, the majority of cases are curable if diagnosed early.

Some breast cancers are less curable, especially once they spread to other body parts.

It is therefore paramount to complete a yearly mammogram.

There is no increased breast cancer risk associated with the radiation dose delivered with screening mammography. It is used to detect breast cancer in asymptomatic women.

• At Joseph Surgery, our breast cancer experts have the training and expertise to diagnose the disease, explain the range of treatment options available, and help decide on a plan tailored to the patient’s needs and goals.

Photo by @Redlightphotos

• Recent advances over the past decade have changed breast cancer care. Advances in genetic testing, targeted treatments, and more precise surgical techniques have helped boost survival rates while helping to support breast cancer patients’ quality of life.

Breast cancer requires expert care.

JOSEPH SURGERY

9415 NE 6th Ave, Miami Shores, FL 33138 786-401-6455 | Site: www.JosephSurgeryMiami.com

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STRAIGHTEN YOUR TEETH WITHOUT METAL BRACES

By Dr. F. Lucie Casthely, DMD, MPH, MS ORTHODONTICS SPECIALIST

Dr. Casthely is an Invisalign Certified Orthodontist and can determine if you are a candidate for this type of treatment.

Photo @Spexphoto

T

he Invisalign System employs a series of clear aligners that fit over the teeth and gradually straighten them. No braces or wires are used, and they are effective for mild to moderate orthodontic problems in patients whose growth is complete and teeth are fully erupted.

Invisalign uses advanced 3-D computer imaging technology to transform your impressions into a custom made series of clear, strong aligners. There may be as many as 48 in the series or as few as 12, depending on your individual treatment plan. You wear each set of aligners day and night for about two weeks, removing them so that you can eat, brush, and floss normally. Your visits to your orthodontist are no more frequent than with conventional braces.

Because Invisalign uses comfortable plastic aligners to move teeth, you can continue enjoying your active lifestyle even during treatment. There is no metal or wires to irritate your lips or cheeks. You can still play sports or just enjoy a game of catch in the backyard without worrying about injuring your mouth. You can always take it out for that special event!

Call us to schedule a free consultation to determine if the Invisalign System is for you and/or email us with any questions!

CASTHELY ORTHODONTICS

1400 NE Miami Gardens Drive, #101, Miami, FL 33179 305.940.4911 | Site: www.casthelyortho.com

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• Older adults age 60 or more is 37% • Young adults age 20-39 is at 32% Health consequences • Increased incidence of heart disease, type II diabetes mellitus and certain types of cancers • In the United States, medical costs were estimated at 14.7 billion dollars in 2008

OBESITY AND THE AGING PROCESS

WHEN OUR WEIGHT BECOMES A BURDEN

By Dr. Patrick Romeus, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST

O

besity is plaguing our society.

As the population is living longer due to improvements in medical advancements, obesity is also prevalent in the older adults.

Body Mass Index (BMI) has been universally used as a screening tool to determine if an individual is overweight or obese. A BMI between 18.5 kg/m2 and 25 Kg/ m2 is considered within the normal weight range. The term obesity is used when the BMI falls at 30 Kg/ m2 or higher.

Hard facts about obesity • More than 1/3 of the US adult population are considered obese Racial implications • Non-Hispanics blacks constitute 48% • Hispanics 42.5% • Non-Hispanic Whites 34.5% • Non-Hispanic Asians 11.7%

Age distributions • Middle age adults 40 to 59 y/o is estimated at 40.2 %

Aging with obesity According to the US census bureau, by 2030, more than 20% of the US population is expected to be over 65.

Therefore, healthcare professionals will take care of older adults with obesity facing subsequently longer periods of functional impairment before death. In fact, studies have shown that patients who are mildly or moderately obese are at higher risk of falling with resulting injuries. Also, data demonstrates that patients with midlife obesity carry higher risks of nursing home placement because of functional limitations, making caring at home too challenging. Lastly, mortality risks definitely increases when the BMI exceeds 33kg/m2.

It is okay to talk about obesity!

Physicians should put more emphasis on lifestyle modifications such as a healthy lowcalorie diet and increased physical activity.

PREFERRED FAMILY CARE, INC.

16853 NE 2nd Ave, Suite 101, North Miami Beach, FL 33162 | 305-548-8530

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PREECLAMPSIA AND HYPERTENSION IN PREGNANCY:

A DANGEROUS KILLER

By Total Women Wellness Center OBGYN Specialists

A

s leaders in women’s health care, Obstetricians and Gynecologists play a crucial role in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia.

Although a joyous and promising event, pregnancy can be difficult even without complications.

Preeclampsia is a life-threatening complication of pregnancy, which affect negatively the fetal and maternal outcomes. Not treated the patient can develop eclampsia (seizures, coma) or stroke.

Worldwide, this serious condition affects about 10% of pregnancies but constitutes one of the leading causes (up to 50%) of maternal and infant illness and death. Usually this complication starts after the 20th week of pregnancy and consists of high blood pressure with proteinuria and or end organ damages.

Total Women Wellness Center offers a variety of services for women and specializes in high-risk pregnancies such as gestational diabetes incompetent cervix, hypertension, preeclampsia. These fellows of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. JeanBaptiste, Hans, Dr. Lans, Clones and Dr. Toussaint, Thomas have contributed to many successful outcomes.

Expectant mothers should attend prenatal visits and contact their

doctors immediately if they notice rise in blood pressure, excess protein in urine, decrease urine output, severe headaches, or shortness of breath.

Nulliparity, family history of preeclampsia, preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, smoking, diabetes mellitus, multiple gestation, chronic hypertension, obesity, low socioeconomic status, advanced maternal age (35+ years-old) black are some risk factors for preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia is usually cured with delivery of the baby, but the mother may not get better after delivery. It is important to follow up with your doctor to address lingering issues that may still cause eclampsia, even after delivery. The OBGYN specialists of Total Women Wellness Center can guide you with confidence through this beautiful moment of your life.

When considering some of the risks of pregnancy it is comforting to know that you are in gifted hands.

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Dr. Hans Jean-Baptiste Photo by @Redlightphotos

Dr. Clones Lans

Photo by @Redlightphotos

Dr. Thomas Toussaint Photo by @Redlightphotos

TOTAL WOMEN WELLNESS CENTER

16400 NW 2nd Ave, Suite 101, Miami, FL 33169 (305) 705-4575 Email: info@totalwomenwellness.com

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"PAIN PUMP" IMPLANT FOR CHRONIC INTRACTABLE PAIN By the Office of Dr. Mogin Antoine

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST

W

ith chronic intractable pain (CIP) the patient has failed conservative treatments such as physical therapy, surgery, or opioid therapy (strong pain medications); the cause of the pain cannot be removed or otherwise treated. There are numerous conditions which commonly cause CIP: degenerative disc disease, failed back surgery, cancer pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), multiple sclerosis, postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain after shingles), rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, etc. For those patients the side-effects of opioids become just as challenging as the pain itself. A patient’s life can dramatically improve with a pain pump. Unlike oral medications which goes into the bloodstream, medication is delivered directly into the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and leads to fewer side-effects, at a much lower dosage. For example: 1mg intrathecal Morphine = 300mg of Morphine by mouth. The pump is connected to a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. Both are surgically implanted under the skin.

Your doctor will ensure that it is comfortable and does not interfere with your movements.

During surgery, the pump is filled with pain medication; it sends medication through the catheter to the spinal area where pain receptors are located. You return to your doctor’s office for more medicine when the pump needs to be refilled. It is programmable, allowing doses to be scheduled and adjusted to ensure that you receive the best pain relief possible. Every patient goes through a screening test to assess how well the therapy relieves the pain before having the pump implanted. It is a proven safe and effective therapy, approved by the FDA. To understand the benefits and risks, please contact Dr. Antoine who is a board certified Pain Medicine Specialist and board certified Anesthesiologist.

He also treats conditions such as chronic low back pain, knee and shoulder pain, chronic migraines, severe spasticity due to stroke or

A patient’s life can dramatically improve with a pain pump. multiple sclerosis. Other Interventional Therapies offered are: epidural injections, joint injections, spinal cord stimulator implants, facet blocks, radiofrequency nerve lesioning, and sympathetic nerve blocks.

SUNSHINE PAIN MGMT MEDICAL CENTER: 900 NE 125th Street, Suite 110, North Miami FL 331​61, (305) 836-1421

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Photo by @Redlightphotos

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SHIN SPLINTS

By Dr. Jim Francois, DPM, PT, PA PODIATRIST SPECIALIST

S

hin splints, also called medial tibial stress syndrome, is pain or discomfort in the front of the lower leg due to exercises or increased activities. It is an inflammation of the connective tissue that attaches the leg muscles to the tibia (larger bone of the leg).

It is due to repetitive activities or sudden changes in physical activities, inadequate footwear and flat foot.

It is commonly seen in dancers, military personals, and especially running that runs on hard surfaces for long distances or on hills.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Mild swelling of the leg • Numbness to the leg and foot

MANAGEMENT

• RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation)

• Anti-inflammatory • Compression sleeve • Ice massage after workouts for the first few weeks • Orthotics for proper foot support • Replace excessively worn shoe gear • Physical therapy

It is very important to know that not all exercise-induced leg pain are shin splints. It can be tibial stress fracture or compartment syndrome, which in this case, can be an emergent situation leading to surgery.

If the shin splints is not addressed properly from the beginning, the pain might persist even at rest, which can lead to decrease function, frustration and possibly stress fracture of the tibia.

Contact your doctor or my office for an evaluation.

Signs and symptoms of SHIN SPLINTS: pain along the shin bone during or right after exercising.

JIM FRANCOIS, DPM

150 NW 168th Street, Suite 303, North Miami Beach, FL 33162 786-657-2757 Site: www.jimfrancoisdpm.com

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90% of the time, oral cancer can be cured if detected and treated early.

ORAL CANCER IS PREVENTABLE

By Dr. Franklin Casthely, DDS Dental Specialist

A

s more and more medical responsibility has fallen upon the shoulders of modern

dentists, a new discovery has expanded the scope of practice of the newest generation of orthodontists.

This discovery is so noteworthy that it’s likely to be the subject of conferences and lectures throughout the medical world. The finding is this: more than 41,000 new cases of oral cancer have been diagnosed lately. Almost 2/3 are discovered in the later stages. Nearly 1/5 of these patients will die from complications of this pathology.

A routine oral cancer screening now performed on patients in the dental office is the only thing preventing the number of deaths from dramatically increasing.

Although each case is different, the disease occurs more commonly in patients with poor oral hygiene.

Smokers and heavy drinkers have the highest incidence of oral cancer.

The HPV virus responsible for this epidemic is currently the fastest-growing sexually transmitted disease. But the virus can also be passed through kissing and oral sex.

Since oral cancer is treatable and almost 100% preventable, everyone has a good reason to visit their dentist regularly. It the best way to keep their mouth healthy, keep chewing comfortable and maintain a pretty smile.

CASTHELY FRANKLIN DDS 160 NE 82nd St, Miami, FL 33138 (305) 756-7602 Website: www.casthelydental.com

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Haiti Open | People Culture Tourism 55 ÂŤ

Dr. Luvernice Croskey PhD, LCSW, LMFT and Carter T. Wiggins, LCSW, SAP

CARTER WIGGINS & ASSOCIATES, P.A. For Family, Individual & Group Psychotherapy Services

CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK THERAPISTS

C

arter Wiggins & Associate, P.A. (CWA) has been providing psychotherapeutic services to the South Florida community in a spirit of excellence for over a decade.

Our personal services are designed to empower the individual to regain control. CWA remains constantly aware and respectful of the importance of providing culturally sensitive, confidential and competent services.

Our caring staff is comprised of qualified, licensed and experienced professionals who uphold the highest ethical standards within their field of practice.

The overall goal of CWA is to

Wiggins believes civic leaders, politicians, business owners, law enforcement, the judicial system and families must all unite to create a sense of hope and optimism for our children as well as developing a safe community to live in. render the most appropriate and effective care in a cost conscious manner while providing impeccable therapeutic services to its patients.

CARTER WIGGINS & ASSOCIATES, P.A.

1175 NE 125th Street, Suite 205, North Miami, FL 33161 305-825-5698 Site: carterwigginsandassociates.com

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…secured $2.3 million for the first health clinic built in Little Haiti.

PHILLIP J. BRUTUS, ESQ Helping Haitians in South Florida for Over Three Decades

By Sarah Brutus @sarahprworldwide & Photos by Johny Luc @redlightphotos Where were you born? What was your upbringing like?

I was born in Port Au Prince, Haiti. My father was a dentist and my mother was a kindergarten school teacher. While in Haiti, I attended the school Petit Seminaire College St. Martial. I left Haiti at the age of 14. My parents sent me to New York with the idea that I would go to dental school, be a dentist and come back to Haiti and continue the practice.` HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

What did you decide to do after high school?

After high school, I started college at Manhattan Community College. I later moved to Boston with relatives and transferred to the University of Massachusetts Boston. I graduated there with my Bachelors of Science in 1982.

I started law school that same year at a school called Suffolk University School of Law in Boston. That school sat right

behind the State House, where the legislature met. I used to see the senators and representatives and say, ‘Wow, one day I will be like them.’ Later down the line I was the first Haitian-American elected to the legislature here in Florida.

What did you decide to do after law school?

After Law School I took everything I owned and decided that I would not be

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staying in Boston, and got in my car and drove down to Miami. I had a cousin living down here and looked him up. From there, I met Father Gerard Jean Juste and I started getting acclimated here. I started practicing law here in 1985.

What was your experience as a young attorney in South Florida?

I was 27 years old when I moved here and started practicing. It was a very difficult time, because during that era Haitians had no rights. I joined the NAACP, became an active member and volunteered as counsel.

There was also a time in the early ’90s when the Coast Guards rescued about 12 Cubans at sea and brought them to shore, but at the same time the Haitians at sea were turned away and sent back to Haiti.

This started a hunger strike that I and several other Haitian Americans & African Americans participated in for 21 days to protest this unfair and discriminatory practice. I continued to be active and participated in every protest and every march.

What is one of your most memorable experiences in aiding the Haitian community as an attorney?

In the early 1990s there was a time when there were daily protests from about 4 to 6 p.m. on 79th St. in Little Haiti. After a while the business owners and people in the area became upset with this, as it blocked traffic in the area every afternoon. One of those days, the City of Miami Police Department decided to come out to clear the crowd.

My office was at the old Barnett Bank building that was on the corner. I will never forget what I saw. It was a bloodbath. They arrested over 250 people. I got on the radio and said I would represent them for free because they were arrested for defending their rights as Haitian immigrants. I spent several months working on all of these cases to get people out, without charging them any money.

How did you get started in your political career?

In 1994, I decided to run for judge. At that time there was a campaign to oust all of the black judges. They were scared. As young Haitian-American lawyer, a descendant of people who broke the chains of slavery, the activist in me said let me run. That’s why I ran. I wanted to make a statement.

I got 45,000 votes. He got 100,000. At

the same time, that got me thinking …

45,000 people voted for me. I really had a chance at getting elected into office. In 1998, I decided to run for the State house.

The person I was running against was part of the Democratic Party, but really a Republican in disguise based on what she was voting for. I lost that election by 51 votes. I technically won that race, because one of the precincts lost a ballot box overnight and they found it open the next day. In 2000, I ran for the state legislature again and won with 87 percent of the vote. I was the first HaitianAmerican to serve there. That was important to me, to be a representative for my culture and race. I served for six years. I secured $2.3 million for the first health clinic built in Little Haiti. I also worked on certain streets in North Miami named after heroes of Haiti’s independence that you can still see today, as well as some other important African American figures.

There was also a bill in 2001 that was being attempted to be passed that would prevent immigrants from driving in the United States unless they had permanent residency or citizenship. I fought tooth and nail to ensure that bill did not pass. There were a lot of other bills that I worked on and funding that I secured.

I also later ran for County Commission in 2006. I lost by 250 votes. In 2010 I ran for Congress, and 2011 I ran for State Senate and lost by 200 votes. In 2014, I ran for the House and lost due to a split vote. I filed to run for State Senate in 2016 as an Independent and lost, as I was not a party affiliate.

Any advice that you would give to young people?

I would say to high school and college students: keep your eyes on the prize. Don’t let people decide who you are or what you are going to be. You are the master of your own destiny. If you want to be something, you have to stay at it. Work hard, stay in school and don’t be discouraged. Stay the course. Stand up for your rights, don’t give up the fight. Your life is your right.

Haiti Open | People Culture Tourism 57 « Where do you see yourself and your career in the next 10 years?

With seeing the direction the community is taking, I have sort of stepped out of that force field. I’m on a spiritual quest right now. I’m reading a great book called The Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav. I would like to think I would be retired, at my home writing poetry, tending to my garden, and enjoying what life has to offer. But sometimes I still have the idea or burning desire to run for office again to be able to set the tone for elected officials. But I want

to enjoy life, the birds, the bees, the sun, the moon, and my future grandchildren.

Any final words?

Jesse Jackson has a saying that goes, “I am somebody, cuz God don’t make no junk.”

We all are special. God made us, we are special. Don’t let anybody tell you we’re junk or that we’re nobody. “Cause God don’t make no junk.”`

PHILLIP J. BRUTUS, ESQUIRE 160 NE 82nd St, Miami, FL 33138 Tel: 305-899-0411 Email: pjb@phillipbrutus.com Web: www.phillipbrutus.com

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This company is not about us – it’s about bringing something to the community that is definitely needed.

The Team Behind Primary Medical Care Center

Prinston Jean-Glaude Edwige Jean-Glaude & Dr. Alie Darbouze Pharm. D

By Sarah Brutus @sarahprworldwide and Photos by Johny Luc @redlightphotos How did the idea for Primary Medical Care Center come about?

Primary Medical Care Center was established in 2013. Our love for our parents started all. As we watched their struggle in search of better health care, the idea came to mind to create a healthcare center to serve our community.

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Tell us about the owners of Primary Medical Care Center.

Prinston Jean-Glaude has background in IT from FIU and Barry University; Edwige Jean-Glaude, has a BSN from Barry University; and Dr. Alie Darbouze has a Pharm D. from Florida A & M University.

What challenges did you face when starting Primary Medical Care Center?

Starting a business has its challenges. Our experience from our other businesses helped in the process; however, planning the operation and executing the ideas required a lot of hard work.

Dr. Alie Darbouze (left), Prinston Jean-Glaude(middle), Edwige Jean-Glaude (right)

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present. Man Dodo foundation and HANA are two non-profit organizations we are proud to work with.

What makes Primary Medical Care Center different from its competitors?

The extraordinary care we provide for our patients makes us unique.

We are always there for them in moments of need, whether it’s a happy occasion, like a wedding, or an unfortunate event, like a funeral.

Another important factor is the teaching that we provide for our patients to empower them to take better care of themselves.

And last but not least, our employees. We have a great staff working with us. They proudly care for and value our patients. They don’t go to bed until they ensure that all our patients are home safe from their appointments. We thank them for their unconditional love.

What advice would you give to a young person who is trying to start their own business?

Starting a business is not easy, and making it a success is even harder.

However, with determination, integrity, faith, humility, and hard work, it is possible. Start with a goal, gather positive and constructive feedback, and never give up.

Any last words?

We are grateful for the opportunity to introduce the team behind “Primary Care”, and we appreciate the great job “Haiti Open” is doing in the community. Keep up the good work! God Bless!

Where do you see the company in the next 10 years?

Our goal is to expand and bring better healthcare to communities where help is needed. We admire the work that our pioneers have done in the community, and we are working hard to do our part to serve our community.

How many clinics do you currently have open?

We currently have two clinics, and our clientele is mostly Haitian.

What other philanthropic projects do you participate in?

We are always here to lend a helping hand in the community. Whether it’s in Haiti or in South Florida, Primary Medical Care center is always

HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

CEO & President Prinston Jean-Glaude

Dr. Alie Darbouze (left), Prinston Jean-Glaude(middle), Edwige Jean-Glaude (right)

How has the community received the Primary Medical Care Center?

The response has been truly unbelievable. We welcome our patients with a smile, and we treat them as family. In return, they become our voice in the community.

Without their support we would not be at the point that we are at today.

We are very grateful for the support.

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JEFF LOZAMA

Found an Opportunity in a Recession to Own His Own Company, CMS International

By Sarah Brutus @sarahprworldwide & Photos by Johny Luc @redlightphotos Where were you born? Tell us about your upbringing.

I was born in Cayes, Haiti. Since my father was a pastor, I lived in several different regions in the South of Haiti. I did part of my primary school in Jeremie and finished primary school in Port Au Prince. I moved to the United States to complete high school when I was 15 years old. I lived in upstate New York for a while and finished my high school education in Connecticut.

What did you decide to do after high school?

After high school I got my first job in Chicago, doing calls for a marketing research firm. After a year, I moved to Miami and attended Florida Memorial University. I had great time there and enjoyed many of the cultural experiences that a Historically Black College offers. I pledged and became a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I graduated from HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

FMU with a Bachelors in Business Administration.

Did you always know that you wanted to get into business?

Yes, I always knew that I had a role in business. I always knew that’s where I fit in. I was always interested in making money, and I was always interested in running my own company. From a young age, I had this inclination that I possess the business acumen. I learned my industry and my trade to the point where I now own my own business.

How did you get started in your industry?

My very first job was starting at the bottom of the industry, you could say.

I worked as an assistant purchasing agent for a very small company in the construction industry. I worked with a lot of exporters and the international market. I would do the buying for a firm in the Bahamas. From there on,

I really just began to learn the trade.

I then became a sales representative.

I was chosen as the rep for a large US Manufacturer of windows and doors.

That was a very big opportunity, which allowed me to travel and make presentations to architects, builders, hotel owners, and high-end residential homeowners in the Caribbean.

How did you come about owning your company?

The break came for me because I was being recognized nationally for my work. A major company based in Georgia solicited me to open up an export branch for them in Miami. This is where my introduction to management began. I started the export distribution for them really from scratch. I grew that from zero revenue to about $1 million in revenue after the first year, and after four years we were at about $8 million in revenue. In 2007, there was a major real estate collapse and it affected my

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My advice to young entrepreneurs is to follow your dream. industry, the construction industry.

The company I was working for got into some major trouble financially.

So, to react to the recession, they got into some serious reorganization, which involved them closing down my branch. The owners of the company offered me the option to purchase my branch. I had no idea about how to acquire a company. I was just trying to secure a position with the company.

To my biggest surprise, one of the owners asked me why I wouldn’t buy my branch, but I didn’t see how I could afford the purchase. The owner asked me about my 401K, and I said that wouldn’t be nearly enough to purchase the company. He told me to take the risk, and that’s what I did. I cashed out my 401K and invested in the company.

All I purchased really was some account

Kinam - a CMS client

Karibe - a CMS client

receivables, bad debts and goodwill, but since I was the one who started it from scratch I knew the value of the company despite being in an active recession.

I knew how to reorganize it myself, which I did. So essentially I had been building my company all these years, and I didn’t even know it. Everything I had done up to that point careerwise prepared me for the company that I have today. That’s how CMS International Group Corp started.

Tell us about your philanthropic work.

The Man Dodo foundation is a cause that is near and dear to me. It’s one of the things to which I contribute a lot of my time, effort, and finances. My siblings and I started the foundation in 2005 after the passing of our mother, as a way to continue her legacy. We started that in Cavaillon, Haiti with our first toy drive for 250 children. Now, 11 years later, it has turned into a threeday mission that includes two days of health care and a toy drive with over 2,500 kids.

Tell us about your involvement with the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce.

In 2010, I joined the board of HACCOF. If I look at some of the things that have benefitted me greatly in life, I would definitely say this is one of them. It

opened new doors for me in a world that I didn’t know existed. It’s been gratifying for me to be able to help others grow their business; being part of the growth of the community, I am so extremely proud of how far we have come. It is one of the best professional decisions I have made.

What do you think has allowed you to be successful?

I am very big on building relationships.

I think that has been key for me. Most important for me is perseverance, Faith and Trust in God. You have to persevere through thick and thin.

Any advice that you would give to young entrepreneurs?

Remain true to yourself. Remain honest to yourself. Persevere. And if you have any spiritual inclination, cling to that.

We tend to give up many times when things aren’t going well. Sometimes you have to take the good and the bad. In business there will be a lot of bad. But it is a rewarding experience and truly gratifying. Be part of something, be part of your community. Give back and give back without thinking. Whatever you give will come back to you tenfold.

CMS INTERNATIONAL GROUP, CORP 3333 NW 168th St, Miami Gardens, FL 305-628-3421 www.cms-miami.com

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The whole intention was to grow what my father started in Haiti.

EVANS ST. FORT OF

ST. FORT FUNERAL HOME DEATH - The one thing people don’t want to talk about.

By Sarah Brutus @sarahprworldwide HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

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Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Miami. I also spent some time living in Haiti, because my parents traveled a lot.

Where did you attend school?

My brother and I attended a boarding school in France for a year and a half.

After that, we returned to the States, where my brother and I received scholarships at Florida Bible Christian School for sports. I then went to Pace Senior High, but I ended up leaving there in my senior year to attend Miramar High, which is where I graduated from. I graduated in 1997.

How many siblings do you have?

We are a total of 5 siblings. I am the oldest.

What did you do after high school?

After high school I started attending St. Thomas University, where I started to major in business. I left the program to enter into the field I am in today.

How did you get started with your business?

Well, my father is from Leogane, Haiti.

His family didn’t really have much. He ended up going to school in Port Au Prince while living with another family. Through those experiences, he ended up in the United States. He started working for a cruise liner and was able to get connected with the U.S. Embassy, and through that connection he began helping people to get visas to travel to the United States. He did very well for himself. He later got into cargo ships, and when his father passed away he was approached about getting into the funeral industry. That’s how the first funeral home was started in Leogane.

As soon as he opened that funeral home, it did really well. When I realized what was going on oversees in Haiti with the business, I decided I wanted to expand into the United States. So I went on to major in Mortuary Science at Lynn University.

Did you always know that you were going to enter into that field?

To be honest with you, in high school I was one of those athletes, your allaround jock. I played soccer, I ran track, I played basketball, and I played football. So my goal in high school was

to eventually play a professional sport, and if that didn’t work out, to get into entertainment. So no, I didn’t.

What was your experience after graduating?

After college I had an amazing internship at a firm called Fred Hunters. I did really well there and learned a lot. I then got into a really serious car accident with a charter bus. My car caught on fire. Everything in the car was completely burned, except for my Bible that I always drove with. After that I decided to take what I was doing more seriously. So at the age of 25 I started looking around, and found the funeral location in North Miami Beach where I am currently located. I negotiated the deal all alone, with no help or guidance. My father was doing well oversees and never had any intention of coming and opening a firm in the States. It was completely my idea. I had been around the business for quite some years at that point, having been involved with my father’s firms in Haiti. My father backed me and supported me to do it, and I did it.

How was it starting and going into business for yourself?

I opened my firm in 2003. It was tough.

Haiti Open | People Culture Tourism 63 « I worked 7 days a week to supplement my income. There were times when even my parents suggested I sell, but I believed I could do it. I was persistent and consistent until it worked, and I believed in myself. After my fifth year in business, we got out of the red, and that’s when things started changing. We are currently the only funeral home in Miami that is a member of a group called Selected Independent Funeral Services, and you have to be chosen to get into it.

So that says something.

What advice would you give someone wanting to go into business for themselves?

I would say it takes a lot of discipline.

How many funeral homes in total do you and your father have?

We have three in Haiti. We have the North Miami Beach firm, and I have also acquired another firm and hopefully that will be open within the next year.

What do you like to do for fun when you aren’t working?

I’m a foodie, so I like to go out to dinners.

I also like to travel. Spending time at home is also very important to me.

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JEAN MARC SOREL Providing First Class Service for 15 Years and Counting Photo by Johny Luc @redlightphotos

beginning of the transaction to its end, and sometimes by acting as a consultant to them, even after the transactions close. These are the little things that have contributed to my success as a real estate broker.

I get great satisfaction out of being able to put my energy into helping people make wise and intelligent decisions in regards to real estate transactions.

LAST WORDS? I have lived in Miami for many years now, and every day I gain a greater appreciation and understanding for all that this area has to offer. I make buying and selling homes an enjoyable and memorable experience. I use my many years of experience to help my clients achieve their goals in the least amount of time, with the least amount of stress possible.

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, investor, or seasoned seller, I will bring a welcome energy and integrity to your real estate adventure. Make sure you contact me – I can help!

JEAN, TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR ENTERPRISE. I was born in Bainet, Haiti, on May 5th, 1975. I came to the US in 2002 and started my enterprise with First Class Real Estate, LLC, two years later, in 2004. Then came First Class Insurance, Inc. and First Class Income Tax Services, Inc. Today, I’m proud to say that First Class Real HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

Estate, LLC is the largest Haitian real estate firm in Florida. We have over 35 active agents, and many more to come.

THE REAL ESTATE BUSINESS CAN BE TOUGH. HOW HAS IT BEEN WORKING OUT FOR YOU? As a full-time broker, my approach to real estate is focused on getting to know my clients as individuals. I enjoy taking care of them from the

I love it when I help someone get the key to their dream home. This, to me, is success.

FIRST CLASS REAL ESTATE, LLC

12944 West Dixie High Wawy, North Miami, FL 33161 305-433-5686 / Toll-free: 1-800-731-6092 Email: Firstclassrellc@gmail.com

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Sophia Gedeon Sorel

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The Force behind the Sparkle Empire Photo by Johny Luc @redlightphotos Sophie, tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Sophia. I was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on May 19, 1991. I came to the US seven years ago, and I’ve been taking advantage of every opportunity that has come my way since then. I believe that success in life doesn’t have to mean fame and riches; it’s about fulfilling ourselves, growing steadily, and learning more at every stage of life.

Tell us about your business.

Sparkle Empire is a collection of small businesses. Right now there’s only three of them.

Sparkle Publishing publishes virtually every imaginable genre: literary fiction, nonfiction, children books, memoirs, self-help, and almost every other category you would find on a bookshelf.

Sparkle Graphic Creations exists to promote a powerful relationship between ideas and reality. Whether you require a brochure/flyer, web development, banner, logo, or a corporate identity kit, we can help.

In the end, we believe that selfexpression has no borders and that everyone across the world deserves great design.

Sparkle Event Production is an event planning company. We take absolute pride in creating happy memories, one day at a time. We cover all events from weddings and birthday parties to corporate events.

We don’t just get the job done, we’ll create a party that is completely you.

Last Words The business is still developing. I have huge plans for Sparkle Empire;

… a wife, a mother of two, a nurse, a student, a writer and business owner.

I just have to keep working hard to get my company to where I envision.

A special thanks to all those who have supported me in one way or another and who made it easier for me to get to where I am today. Thank you, thank you, and thank you!

SPARKLE EMPIRE Sophia Gedeon Sorel President & CEO 954-549-7319

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MISS INDEPENDENT

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Darlancia Joseph Leader, Business Woman, Fashion Designer and Travel Agent

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y name is Darlancia Joseph, and I’m the force behind Dadoush Collections. I was born and raised in the beautiful island of Haiti, and moved to New York when I was 17 years old. I attended Wingate high school, and was married three years ago. The best word to describe me is probably “tolerant”. While growing up, I was taught to respectful to everyone, no matter their race or religion. I’m a very honest, friendly and outgoing person, and I love to travel. I enjoy reading interesting books, watching action movies, and hanging out with friends & family.

I’m a businesswoman, fashion designer, and independent travel agent. I’m a creator, a fighter, a leader, a challenger, and CEO of Champagne Style Productions, where I managed and promoted an artist by the name of KOK-RAS. You name it – I do it all. I don’t limit myself. After all, it’s better to try then to not try at all. I’m a strong believer in failing. That word means a lot to me. In fact, failure often leads to success.

Many of my personal characteristics make me unique. I started in business when I was 10 years old. I used to sell “Ti carol” in school. I remember getting kicked out of school because of that – it has stayed in my mind to this day. Later, I turned my hobby of trip planning for

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@dadoushcollections others into a career as a travel agent.

I got into the travel business two years ago. I was introduced to this industry by a friend, Dawson D’or.

Travelling was always my savior.

Whenever I was stressed, I would travel. Dawson was always telling me how I could travel and get paid for it! So I signed up. That’s when I started “Dadoush Luxury Vacations”.

I went to a travel agent academy and received my certificate. Now I’m an ATLANTIS AMBASSADOR. My biggest challenge when starting out was developing a customer base without having years of experience. My greatest hurdle these days is wearing all my various

hats as a business owner. I love helping make travel dreams come true for my clients by assisting them with all aspects of their travel plans: • Flight • Tours • Air • Cruises • Hotel, resort & car

My advice to new entrepreneurs is: don’t limit your promotions to a single demographic. Life is not easy.

Have a positive image of yourself.

Nothing is impossible. Surround yourself with the right people – remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your permission!

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ADMAX SERVICING, LLC

By Max V. Borieux and Photos by Johny Luc @redlightphotos

W

hen in 2006, I launched the first business and financial news program, my goal was to get the listeners accustomed to the basic business concept. Today, more than a decade later, this half hour presentation, “The Daily Business Report” has come to establish itself as one of the premier business news in the airwaves of Radio Mega and other solicited media networks. And behind it all was Admax Servicing LLC, As an entity, Admax quickly found how it was even more important to address on our reports so many questions that are consistently been raised by our clients. Our reports feature: The Worldwide Economic News, the Major Market indexes, the Real Time Value of the Currencies, including that of the Haitian Gourde, the US Monthly Job Report, the unemployment situation, and more…

When the American consumers are worried about the rising rates of inflation, the hiking of the interest rates, we as a community are concerned as well; when the activists or politicians elevate the debate of skyrocketing student tuition loans, insurance premiums, drugs prices, we are on board to shed the light; and when finally the stock markets fall, and thereby affecting our retirement accounts, we cannot ignore the impact. The truth of the matter is that we are part of the 70% of consumers driving the economic activities.

Admax built its reputation on trust and professionalism, then, after fifteen years in the tax preparation fields, we go beyond the tax-filing season to offer a year-round “tax practice”, assisting other clients in their bookkeeping needs, IRS audits, or other personal matter. These added services greatly help the Diaspora resolve other issues “lakay”. Haiti thrives for a permanent link and today we have Admax Connection.

Admax in Haiti is now the bridge for your Vital Records (Extrait des Archives of Birth, Death, Marriage, Judgments) and any other legal documents.

Leave us with the pain of maintaining your property in Haiti; we can be your trusted landlord for your rentals, the safekeeping of your land and even assisting in their sales transaction.

Are you petitioning for your loved ones in Haiti?

We will assist them until they reach their final destination. We are in short a Broker firm, assisting public and private sectors alike in their purchasing needs whether in Haiti or abroad. Your purchase orders are carefully handled.

AdmaxServicing,

LLC

SPEAK TO US! Admax Servicing LLC 9959 NW 7th Ave, Miami, FL 33150 305-456-2075 Admax Connection 1ère Ruelle Jeremie #30, Port-au-Prince, Haiti 509-3818-9204

Visit us online: www.admaxservicing.com HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

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MISS UNIVERSE 1ST RUNNER-UP 2016

RAQUEL PELISSIER

By Marie-Junie Pierre

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n January 30, 2017, Haiti, once crowned “La Perle Des Antilles” made headlines when our very own stunner, Raquel Pelissier, was named runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant. When asked about what propelled her to participate in the pageant, Pelissier said “In the news, there was always something negative about Haiti. I wanted to change that. I wanted Haiti to make the news and for the news to be great and for everybody in the world to see that Haiti is great and Haiti matters.”

Standing at five feet and eleven inches of grace, class, and poise, the 25 year old Haitian native is easily the definition of a beauty queen. It would be foolish, however, to think that she is just a pretty face. Pelissier’s ambition and her desire to help others is unparalleled. A quadrilingual pursuing a degree in scientific research and optometry and vision, Pelissier wants to become the first Miss Universe to find a cure for blindness. Already, she is working on a research project on the regeneration of optic nerves.

Haiti’s beauty queen is also equally resilient. At the mere age of 4, she fell into a coma that lasted 21 days. When the situation seemed hopeless, she woke up, and went on to make a full recovery. As if that wasn’t miraculous enough, she managed to survive the tragic earthquake that ravaged Haiti, unscathed. This resilience was her armor when she decided to represent Haiti in the 2017 Miss Universe pageant.

When told that there would be neither government support nor sponsorship, Pelissier was not deterred. She used her social media accounts strategically to gain support. She opened a GoFund me acccount. She forged. Ahead.

I wanted to represent my country.

“Many days, I ask myself, why did I get another opportunity at life, she states.” “Why me?” Perhaps, so she could walk across that stage in all her feminine glory. Perhaps because a downtrodden

nation needed one glimmer of hope.

Perhaps because she was that glimmer of hope. Perhaps because the rest of the world needed to be reminded that Haiti matters. Perhaps because Haiti needed to be reminded that Haiti matters.

Photographer @carlosvelezfoto MUA & Hair @victoriadukebeauty Styling @lacasahermosa

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BASSIN-BLEU Jacmel, Number Four Attraction in All of Haiti

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Bassin Blue Jacmel Haiti

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Bassin Blue by Madame Vogue

Bassin-Bleu is a paradise hiding in the lush hills just above the picturesque town of Jacmel in Haiti’s South East Region.

By Skite Polis

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re you ready to explore the unknown, or perhaps take the road less traveled?

Welcome to Bassin-Bleu in Jacmel, one of Haiti’s national treasures.

Jacmel is easy to reach. It’s the hike to the waterfalls that takes some conquering, although it’s a fairly short distance. If you’re fit, you can climb it with ease. You can also take a splendid road trip if you’re staying close to Port au Prince, as the drive to Jacmel alone is totally worth it. Take a 4WD, as the roads can be tricky for a regular car or if you’re traveling alone. You can also hire a motorcycle taxi, which is a ton of fun.

Just imagine crossing hills and rivers on a 4WD under the warm sun – it’s awesome.

Even if you’re not a professional photographer, your photos will pack a natural punch, as the scenery always produces incredible images.

Of course, when you have waterfalls with splendid natural freshwater pools, expect to do some diving from heights up to 7 meters. Cool, indeed!

Part of the journey to the

waterfalls is the road trip, which wends through majestic mountains via several routes. Whichever one you take, you’ll reach Jacmel. From here, you can either walk by yourself to the waterfalls or hire a local guide.

Hiring a guide is advisable, since they know the place better than you and you won’t have to worry about hauling your travel gear. Parking and entrance fees are dirt cheap (100 Gourdes), although it’s good to tip the guides. This is all part of the adventure. (Gotta make the locals happy, too!) Plus, the site is definitely worth it. It’s a priceless piece of a hidden paradise – so just enjoy!

As you hike up and down the hills, don’t forget to snap a photo or two and respect Bassin-Bleu by preserving its environmental

integrity. You know the drill.

The limited number of tourists allowed to the site on a given day is perhaps what sets this place apart. Its cleanliness is amazing and gratidying. Some even drink water right from the falls; it’s that fresh.

There are three waterfalls. The last is the largest, so let your guide know your intentions. If you want to jump from a 7-meter cliff, just ask your guide or simply enjoy the pristine pool without the hassle of having to climb a rock. The splendid photo opportunities shots are perfect for your social pleasure – as is the swimming in the cool basins.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Jacmel, Haiti Transportation: Horseback or off-road vehicle Hotels nearby: Hotel Cyvadier, Kabic Beach Club Restaurants nearby: Florita Bar, Sur Le Toit Bar & Grill

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ATTRACTION

CITADELLE LAFERRIÈRE Cap-Haïtien, Number One Attraction in All of Haiti

By Skite Polis

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magine going back in time – well sort of. Welcome to the famed Citadelle in Haiti. Haiti holds many wonderful stories as a nation, and the best way to learn more about them is to experience its rich history through monuments – or, better yet, a fortress on top of a mountain. The latter describes the mesmerizing Citadelle Laferrière (also known as Citadelle Henry Christophe or just Citadelle). The fortress has great historical significance for the Haitian people, and exploring it is hugely enjoyable. It stands tall for a reason, and Haitians are so proud of it that they have emblazoned it on their local currency, stamps and

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postcards.

The locals refer to the Citadelle as the Eighth Wonder of the World, and we can’t blame them. UNESCO declared it as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, paving the way for more conservation efforts. However, what makes it really noteworthy by today’s standards is its massive stone construction, which makes up what is still the largest stone fortress in the Americas.

It was built to counter French attacks, and although it never saw battle against the French, it survived many earthquakes – so its durability speaks for itself.

Although abandoned, it still serves as inspiration to

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Paragliding Citadelle Laferrière, Haiti

Citadelle Laferrière Aerial View

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many Haitians, and for every tourist glimpses a fascinating historical remnant of a really beautiful land and its people.

The Citadelle lies in the north of Haiti, on top of a 3,000-foot mountain called Bonnet a L’Eveque.

If you’re coming from Cap-Haïtien, it is just 17 miles south of the city or 5 miles uphill from the town of

The locals refer to the Citadelle as the Eighth Wonder of the World…

Milot. Of course, you’ll need a good 4WD to tackle much of the road to the fortress, and once you reach the designated parking lot you have to get to the fortress itself either by horse or on foot. If you travel light, walking the uphill paved stone path is perfectly enjoyable. But you’ll need plenty of water along the way, so hire a guide, or better yet, ride a horse so you can enjoy getting to the fortress with less effort.

Once inside or on top of the fortress’s top floors, it’s impossible to not how this massive stone structure came to be. Like most mountaintop structures, it was built to serve war purposes, but luckily it never saw action – although it

survived natural disasters like earthquakes. You can even see the 365 cannons of varying sizes – they look terrifying, as they are well preserved. Some cannons even have pristine crests of 18th-century monarchs.

Ask your guide questions about the history of the Citadelle, because hearing it from their perspective is totally overwhelming. The Citadelle is rife with stories – but as the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. Admire the pyramid of cannonballs carefully laid at the base of the fortress walls, and imagine how these things can so quickly destroy lives. You can even pretend to be a Tomb Raider and search for the tomb of King Christophe buried in one of the Citadel’s interior courtyards.

Whatever you do at the Citadelle, don’t forget to have fun!

COME EXPERIENCE IT Location: Cap-Haïtien, Haiti Transportation: 4WD then horseback uphill trek Hotels nearby: Cormier Plage, Mont Joli Restaurants nearby: Lakay, Cap Deli

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THINGS TO DO

GALERIE NADER

Pétion-Ville, Number Two Best Things to Do in Pétion-Ville, Haiti

By Skite Polis

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ith all the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, sometimes the best getaway is beyond travel destinations. Traveling itself is the

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art of leaving one’s own comfort zones and venturing into the unknown. Haiti is a lovely paradise that has inspired generations of wonderful artists. Looking at a world with beautiful sceneries and engaging cultures, Haitian artists

have captured what it feels like to live in Haiti (or the world, for that matter) and these visions have all been embedded into many Haitian works of art.

If your bucket list includes travels to unfamilair places, consider

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visiting Galerie Nader in PétionVille. There are plenty of nice hotels nearby (Karibe and Kinam) if you want to truly immerse yourself in arts that inspired many generations and are cherished by collectors around the world. The collection is huge, comprising native and modern works of art rendered not only with paintbrushes, but other tools, too.

Galerie Nader packs more than you could ever expect. It exhibits the best artwork in town and, as mentioned, not only paintings. In fact, you can find art in many forms these days, hidden as if they’re in a modern gallery. Think of clothing

and other paraphernalia that serves as a canvas for many popular Haitian artists. Galerie Nader provides a forum for a wide spectrum of Haitian artists. All the pieces are well curated and luxuriously maintained.

Galerie Nader is more than just a shop where you buy art, although it accepts credit cards and will assist with shipping and private viewings for one’s convenience.

Wherever you are in Port-auPrince, Galerie Nader is only a short drive away. As the main repository of Haitian art, this place hosts most of the major work of legendary Haitian artists. One might find expensive price tags, but this is just a sign that the curators have done their part to collect nothing but the best. As a collector, you’re not just looking at the price tag, but for a luxury that’s beyond measure in monetary terms.

Galerie Nader is run by friendly people and the atmosphere is cozy, which is perfect when you’re looking for a certain artwork. Mind you, even the locals flock to this place for their art needs. Besides, if you can’t find the art or special piece that you’re looking for here, then you can’t find it anywhere in Haiti – in other

Haiti is a lovely paradise that has inspired generations of wonderful artists. words, Galerie Nader pretty much holds all of Haiti’s art gems. Here you can satisfy your desire for vivid works of the imagination whose prices can be hundreds or thousands of dollars. The people at Galerie Nader are there to help you choose the best art, from new work to classic collectibles, that will elevate the quality of your art collection.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Pétion-Ville, Haiti Transportation: Local transportation Hotels nearby: Kinam, Karibe Restaurants nearby: Observatoire, Quartier Latin

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ATTRACTION

PLACE SAINT-PIERRE Pétion-Ville, Haiti Number 17 Attraction in All of Haiti

By Skite Polis

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f you’ve been to New York, you’ve heard of Central Park, the green urban expanse that forms the beating heart of busy Manhattan. Like Central Park in Manhattan, Pétion-Ville, Haiti has a splendid square with fresh air and added nostalgia. Welcome to Place Saint-Pierre! Located across from the busiest street in Pétion-Ville, it’s right in the heart of the city. The square is perfect for many activities, but of course it serves mostly those looking for quieter spaces during their stay in Haiti. A short walk can turn to a long one if you fancy talking to locals. They’re so friendly that they almost make you feel like you’re a local yourself!

This is not just a park, but there are other fascinating things to do here. Perhaps you can propose to your lovely partner or simply run off some of the calories you gained from eating delicious Haitian food. Kids are welcome here and – unlike some other bustling urban parks – Place Saint-Pierre sports the freshest air there is. The crowd is thin, so you’ll never have to fight for a picnic spot.

The people here are so welcoming that you’ll always get that special spot you’re looking for. Just ask anyone in the park.

Place Saint-Pierre also has a wonderful history. It’s old – in

Like Central Park in Manhattan, PétionVille, Haiti has a splendid square with fresh air and added nostalgia. Welcome to Place Saint-Pierre! fact, it is already ancient – but the renovation efforts probably removed some of its historic natural scenery.

Still, the landscape can remind you of the wonderful times you grew up in. The square was originally built in the 1800s but has undergone many changes, most recently in 2009, just before the earthquake. (The park was largely unscathed.)

There are hotels nearby, particularly the impressive Kinam.

It has cool rooms and, of course, splendid pools. The staff are friendly and the food delicious. The square is visible from the hotel – but since it’s just a stone’s throw away, why not take a walk there and get some fresh air?

If you’d like to buy souvenirs to bring home to your family and friends, look for some shops in the area. However, visit other parts

of the city to search for better crafts, particularly in Kenscoff and Mountain Maid at the Baptist Haiti Mission, where you can find lovely handicrafts. Some tourists swear by them. You will not be disappointed, although some of the same goods can also be found near the square.

Still, having lots of choices is always better.

Place Saint-Pierre has a traditional homey charm that’s hard not to like. It’s perfect for photos during the golden hour, so if you’d like a unique portrait of you in a historic city, this square is the best place to be.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Pétion-Ville, Haiti Transportation: Local transportation Hotels nearby: Kinam, Karibe Restaurants nearby: Observatoire, Quartier Latin

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ATTRACTION

MARCHÉ EN FER by GettyImages

MARCHÉ EN FER

Port-au-Prince, Number Nine Attraction in All of Haiti

By Skite Polis HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

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arché en Fer is a popular market catering mostly to tourists, so expect some vendors to be offering their services.

You will probably appreciate their presence since you will need them as you go around the market.

The market is located in the main street so access to this popular shopping area is quite easy with room for lots of foot traffic, which is really good for both the locals and tourists. You can bargain to your heart’s content, and it’s pretty much certain you will not leave without buying something. Haggling in the Haitian way is really fun, and if you have never tried it, as you are probably used to fixed price tags that are just swiped by price reading guns at your local market, you are really missing out on traditional trading techniques.

Now for some trivial background facts: The market sports a fascinating metallic structure you can see at the Central Market. This structure has its very own story, and a dark one at that. It is said to foretell a hazardous ship wreck in Haitian waters. The ship carrying the structure was en route to Karachi, in Pakistan, where the structure was to be erected as a Sunni mosque. Neither the ship nor the structure ever arrived, and now it, the structure, stands guard over the Central Market. Be careful, though.

With all the bustling, tented shops around you, you might easily miss it.

There is some fascinating architecture here too. Though appearing to be little more than facades, they are also historical in nature. There are various iron works and lots of native artworks including voodoo dolls used in rituals. If you are a fan of this stuff, you will love it here. It can be a bit shocking but very entertaining to say the least.

You should ask the locals if they have some love potions available for you to take back home. In any event, with all the color and the bustle of the market you should, for golly’s sake, just have some fun.

Marche de Fer inside

Built in Paris, bought and brought to Haiti in 1891 by Haitian president Florvil Hyppolite If you get tired of roaming around looking for various goods, and avoiding sharp elbows along the busy pathways, there is also a huge range of delicious foods on sale. You can even find fresh seafood. Some visitors enter the market carrying nothing, only to leave bearing a bucket-full of alcohol, some wooden sculptures, and even some livestock!

You can also find marvelous paintings done by Haitian artists.

The vendors may follow you around, but they are never aggressive. In fact,

they are so friendly that you won’t be able to resist them. Just make sure you know what you want, and haggle for the best price. You will definitely love it here in the market, so make sure you drop by if you’re staying in Port-au-Prince.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Port-au-Prince, Haiti Transportation: Local transportation Hotels nearby: Palm Inn, Hotel Oloffson Restaurants nearby: Magdoos, Epi d’Or

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MUSÉE OGIER-FOMBRUN Côte des Arcadins, Number Six Attraction in All of Haiti

By Skite Polis

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he rustic Musée OgierFombrun in Côte des Arcadins holds memories dear to the Haitian people – but it also packs in lots of interesting activities. Who would have thought that travel could be so educational – and fun.

Thanks, Haiti! Towering palms and the warmth of the tropical sun are perfect for an incredible daytour excursion, and the museum’s ambience is similarly one of a kind, a genuine rustic shrine where you can reminisce about wonderful memories or make new ones.

Back in the day, Haiti was called Saint Domingue, a very rich French colony. This wealth was the result of Haiti’s huge sugar plantations, which allowed the French colonizers

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to produce about three quarters of the world’s sugar – not an easy feat, given that manual labor was required to harvest it. As such, much credit belonged to the slaves brought in from Africa. This work might have been good for the French, but not for the slave population. As the story goes, the slaves grew tired of colonialism and finally fought for their independence – and in 1804, Haiti officially became the world’s first Black Republic.

Thanks to Gérard Fombrun, we now have an amazing museum to explore, a cool relaxing place filled with not only rich memories but sweet treats (remember, this was once a sugar plantation). The main building houses the museum, which houses

authentic historical relics related to the origins of the Haitian nation.

Interestingly, the museum not only preserves memories, but also acknowledges the heroism of the Haitians. It seems the locals are, and have always been, very resilient.

The museum is simply wonderful.

Imagine sitting in a rustic botanical garden having in-depth conversations with the locals to expand one’s horizons. There is a library where you can also quench your thirst for Haitian history or ask questions of the staff, who are friendly and know things that can’t be found in books. The artifacts at the Musée Ogier-Fombrun are carefully preserved, and some antiquities have been restored

Inside Musee Ogier-Fombrun

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Outside Musee Ogier-Fombrun

This sugarcane plantation was built in the 1760 and then abandoned, turning to ruins. The architect Gérard Fombrun bought it in 1977 and dedicated 35 years of his life to restoring the plantation to its former glory and he succeeded very well. over the course of many years – an impressive effort.

Touring the mill grounds with its scenic lines of palm trees is mesmerizing, easily robbing you of a couple of hours on your schedule. The stone aqueduct is a photo-magnet, it supplies the water that runs through a traditional wooden wheel and drives the mill. You can see how this simple mechanism extracts juice from the cane that is then processed into sugar, beverages and liquor. The Musée Ogier-Fombrun is a lovely place to spend a couple of weekend hours.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Côte des Arcadins, Haiti Transportation: Free hotel transportation Hotels nearby: Moulin Sur Mer, Royal Decameron Restaurants nearby: Restaurants at the resorts Neg Maron at Musee Ogier-Fombrun

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Papillon Enterprise photo by the Clinton Foundation 2

THINGS TO DO

PAPILLON ENTERPRISE Port-au-Prince, Number Seven Things to Do in All of Haiti

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magine being in a place where your money is valued and, at the same time, you are receiving something in return which is more than what you bargained for.

Welcome to Papillon Enterprise where fun meets love.

This amazing cafe and gift shop combines fun and social awareness in such a splendid fashion that you will not even notice you are helping all the families the cafe employs. Life in Haiti is quite hard, but it is almost unbelievable how positively the people look at life. Such perspective so amazing that it actually moves you to appreciate the things in your life that you sometimes take for granted.

Located at 14 Rue Cassagnol Prolongee, Delmas 75, in Port Au Prince, Papillon Enterprise is changing a lot of Haitian lives with your help, of course. They are boosting the local economy by using locally-sourced materials and, of course, employing the locals, some of whom are cannot read or write.

They employ fathers and mothers who have experienced quite the lowest levels of human life. Some of these people are even ready to give their kids up for adoption, just so they will have better lives than they, themselves, have had.

Okay, so much for amazing and inspiring facts, what do we really have here? Papillon Enterprise is considered by the locals and tourists to be a hidden destination jewel.

The first floor is a dedicated gift shop displaying items that are also available online (they ship abroad), while the second floor is the exciting part, a thriving and lively cafe. The seasoned fries and smoothies are laced with flavors and charms that somehow cast a spell on your heart.

If you have kids traveling with you, the area is big enough for them to play while you relax and enjoy the ambience of the café or, if you are that way inclined, do some work while on vacation - not that it is recommended, but we all we do what we have to do!

July 29, 2015, Chelsea Clinton by the Clinton Foundation

Papillon Enterprise is considered by the locals and tourists to be a hidden destination jewel.

What really makes this place magical is what is on sale here.

These are not machined goods, nor are they manufactured in an automated manner. What you can be sure of is that countless hours have been spent on each hand-crafted item, so when you see them with your own eyes, you will probably wonder how the Haitians have transformed themselves into such great artisans. The items range from jewelry to hand-printed Haitian landscapes. There are stuffed toys

displaying a very high quality of workmanship, the kind of quality you will never find in a robot-made stuffed toy. While the products are quite highly priced, each and every dime goes to help support a lot of families. So whenever you want to spend something without guilt, look no further than Papillon Enterprise.

It is absolutely worth every penny, and the fact that each product has been carefully made by hand makes them even more valuable.

Whatever treasures you may find for yourself, make sure to treat yourself to a good smoothie served with either fries, pizza, or burger.

The view from the second floor may not be quite high enough to provide a viewpoint overlooking the city, but it is a perfect spot to experience a homey Haitian atmosphere.

Have fun.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Port-au-Prince, Haiti Transportation: Local transportation is enough Hotels nearby: Palm Inn, Hotel Oloffson Restaurants nearby: Magdoos, Epi d’Or

HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

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THINGS TO DO

Petit-Goâve, Number 19 Best Things to Do in All of Haiti

By Skite Polis Photo by Samuel Dameus HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

Photo by Samuel Dameus

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O

n your next world trip, Kokoye Beach should be at the top of your list – and if it’s not, rethink your travel priorities!

Imagine a place that exists solely for your own pleasure or and company of your choosing. This luxury is only reserved for places that can truly be called pristine. This very piece of paradise is just a couple of hours away from Port au Prince and three hours from Petionville.

The beach is amazingly untouched pristine due to its remote location.

To get there, a boat ride is a perhaps the best choice, since it is easier and you can enjoy gazing at the scenic shorelines before landing at the perfect spot for your unforgettable beach excursion. Locals maintain the beach, so there is a minimal fee to use it, but this is really just a friendly donation.

For the adventurous, hiking is preferable – it requires you to burn fat! For your convenience, hire a kid at the parking lot, since finding the trail to the beach can be tricky. You don’t want to waste any time beating around in the bushes! The elevation can hazardous to some, since it is a 350-meter descent to the beach, but it is worth it. You can even enjoy fresh lambi at the beach or call for lobsters that the locals will happily cook for you.

One way to enjoy the beach is staying there for the night. There are no hotels in the area, but you

Kokoye Beach is a fantastic weekend destination that can be reached either on foot or via prearranged travel.

Leslie and family via rollingsinhaiti.files.wordpress

can stay at one of the locals nearby or perhaps do it the fun way – by camping. Since the beach is very isolated, you’ll feel like you’re on a desert island. You feel like no one is watching you. Let the bonfire burn and soak in the spirit of island pleasures, and let the wonders of nature put the brakes on your busy lifestyle. It’s therapeutic, and fun.

As the first light of day oozes through the clouds, get ready to immerse yourself in the warm waters. Swim like a child if you must, or as if you’ve never seen a beach before. It’s okay to lose yourself here. The water is so clear that you can even look down and see where you’re walking. This provides peace on mind, especially if you are traveling with kids who have never been at the oceanside.

Kokoye Beach is an unforgettable place. Its remoteness sets it apart from most other Haitian beaches.

If you appreciate a crowd-free getaway, this is it. Even some locals are unaware that this place exists!

Here are some handy numbers for you: Micheline - 4206–8936 or 3760–9608 or Paula - 3668–6996.

(This information has been shared online thanks to the people who truly appreciate this wonderful piece of paradise on earth.)

Kokoye Beacy by WoyMagazine

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Petit-Goâve, Haiti Transportation: 4WD recommended Hotels nearby: Villa Ban-Yen, Fort Royal Hotel Restaurants nearby: Taina Restaurant

HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

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« Salle d'exposition permanente alvéole 3 - © Collection MUPANAH

ATTRACTION

MUSÉE DU PANTHÉON NATIONAL HAÏ Port-au-Prince, Number Five Attraction in All of Haiti

By Skite Polis

I

f you think museums are boring, think again! While some treat museum stops as quiet places to hang out, others make museum tours a big part of their travel itinerary. Whatever camp you’re in, don’t miss the “Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien” (referred HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

to by the locals as the MUNUPAH).

This friendly urban oasis even sports a shallow rooftop pool to spice up its quiet ambience. What makes it absorbing, though, is its showcase of Haitian history and knowledgeable guides who really know their stuff.

Another fun fact: what you see above ground is an enticing

sculpture-garden sitting area; when you venture underneath, it’s like going full-on Indiana Jones. Most of the museum is underground, a clever construction concept that probably saved it from the 2010 earthquake.

This architecture sets MUPANAH apart from most other museums. It opened in 1983, but has remained

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INTO Musee du Pantheon National Haitien

ÏTIEN

well kept for all these years thanks to the efforts of the friendly staff.

Be forewarned: the museum is not camera-friendly. This only means that the museum’s displays are definitely worth seeing – plus, you’ll focus more on the information given to you by the staff, who can imparts all sorts of fascinating tales about Haiti’s glorious past.

The museum is home to amazing collections of historical pieces gathered from across the Caribbean The vessel ran aground in 1492 on Christmas Eve in what is known today as Cap-Haïtien, on Haiti’s northern coast. Columbus was an impressive sailor, and the museum

Perhaps MUPANAH’s most intriguing piece is the gigantic 13-foot-high rusted anchor salvaged from the Santa Maria, one of the ships that Columbus sailed.

pays him appropriate consideration.

Elsewhere, there are remnants – including such as regal robes and fantastic crowns that once belonged to King Henry I and Emperor Faustin I – dating from the time of Haiti’s various monarchies. You can even see the pistol that the King Henry used to shoot himself. Seeing these items in person is a thrill.

Getting here is as easy as eating a piece of delicious pie in a downtown Port-au-Prince restaurant, since the museum is conveniently located in the heart of the city. The MUPANAH is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Thursday. An extra hour is available on Fridays, but hours on Saturdays and Sundays are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. On holidays, follow Saturday hours. The $5 USD entrance fee is a pittance in comparison to the amount of Caribbean history that you’ll learn.

COME EXPERIENCE IT: Location: Port-au-Prince, Haiti Transportation: Local transportation Hotels nearby: Palm Inn, Hotel Oloffson Restaurants nearby: Magdoos, Epi d’Or

HaitiOpen.com | Spring 2017

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ATH Tourism Event

at the ASU Lounge, Karibe Hotel, March 15, 2017 Photo by Frederick Alexis @frederickalexis

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ATH holds over a hundred members in 5 Groups: Accommodation, Restaurants & Leisure, Transportation, Intermediaries and Affiliated members.

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