ONE LOVE Free Publication
Volume 8 Issue 4
APRIL 2015 Since AUGUST 2008
ARIBBEAN
COMMUNITY • CULTURE • CONNECTIONS
HOUSTON CARIBBEAN QUEEN PAGEANT
COMMUNITY
Friday May 22, 2015
It’s Ja-Ga Reggae Fest 2015 Page 9
CARIBBEAN
Obama to Visit Jamaica and Panama Page 7
CONNECTION
Fear of the Black Man Page 12
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One Love Caribbean
Page 2 • ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN • APRIL 2015
Venessa Clarke and Her Passion to Educate the World on Lupus Beautiful girl was taken from her family way too soon
Houston, TX 77274 281-769-2253
By Sylvanus Donaie Publisher For the first time, I met Venessa Clarke at the “Bajan Men Can Cook” event, which was help by the Barbados Association of Greater Houston, March 21, 2015. Her Dad, Reggie Clarke Sr. made the introduction: a smart and passionate young lady with a sense of purpose. Our five minutes of conversation was based on her passion to educate the world on Lupus and the need for One Love Caribbean to help spread the message. Our talk ended with her promise to email me an article on Lupus. Sadly, it was our first and last conversation. Venessa passed away suddenly on March 27, 2015. She had been diagnosed with Lupus. She took the fight to Facebook seeking support in fighting the disease and to make May the official “Lupus Awareness Month.” Here is her message: “Good Day everyone! Now for those of you who are close to me, you may know my story, or at least a tidbit of it from pictures or family. Well, now is the time; I really need your help. Everyone help, really! I need you to sign our petition to make May officially “Lupus Awareness Month.” Not only do I need that, but I need for you to SHARE, SHARE, SHARE! I’m
One Love CARIBBEAN P.O. Box 742291
Website
www.olchouston.com
Sylvanus Donaie
Founder/Publisher Phone: 832-881-9745 sdonaie@olchouston.com
Main Office not a popular face, but I want change. Well, I need change. Things like this start small, (even though everything is bigger in Texas). I want to see us flourish and make this really happen. This is a matter that is so close to my heart. I would love to see a cure in my lifetime and if that can’t happen I would at least want this to be a more wellknown disease. I’m willing to do the work, are you? Please take the chance to sign our petition at: http://www.thepetitionsite. com/117/642/083/gibson-lupus-resource-center-petition-for-lupus-awareness-in-texas/ and if you want to see me blink a million and one times, while telling a part of my story, feel free to watch the video!” Caribbean Community leader, Cherrie Thompson, created A Go-Fund-Me Ac-
count in her honor at http://www.gofundme.com/qavgguw. She wrote, “Unfortunately, this beautiful girl was taken from her parents way too soon. No parent should ever feel what Mary and Reggie are feeling right now. Their numbness can never be fully translated into words. Venessa’s sisters, brothers, extended family and friends also share in this unimaginable grief. We offer them our love and support and would like to ease their pain by creating this fund” “If you are someone who happens to know Mary, Reggie or Venessa’s family, or if you have never met them, but can somehow relate to this extremely saddening tragedy, then I hope that you can find it your heart to donate, even a little, to help them through this terrible time in their lives. Money will never bring back Nessa, but it might help with expenses.” Thompson concluded.
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Staff Writers
Sylvanus Donaie Marcelline Chitolie Terry Layne Thecia Jenkins Charmaine Bailey Attorney Latania Mena Advertising Tel: 281-769-2253 Tel: 832-881-9745 Tel: 504-460-9638
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The Publisher’s Thoughts Our Caribbean Culture Annihilates Our Business Thinking I am a little perturbed at experiencing the startup of Caribbean businesses and their quick demise in our communities. In the past year, I have watched about ten startups and their quick shutdown. For many of these startups, the writings are posted on their wall from their inception. Yes! Upon an initial visit, one can quickly make their prediction about the business’ longevity. For some time, I have been seeking answers to the question: Why are we unable to establish ourselves in the Houston business arena? Caribbeaners propel themselves to the top in their chosen field as employees. However, as business owners, we are amateurish. According to Bloomberg, 8 out of 10 entrepreneurs who start businesses fail within the first 18 months. A whopping 80% crash and burn! (Bloomberg.com. 2014) But why? From this statistics, we can hone our attention to understand that starting and maintaining a successful business in America is not an easy task, but not impractical. Nonetheless, we can learn from the colossal amount of failure of small businesses that we can apply to our own business aspirations. But our culture! Yes! Our Caribbean culture blinds us to the realities on the ground. It’s our customary beliefs, social norms, and material traits that trip us up. On that note, I am sure that you have heard these words: “We only know this way, and tis how you gon get it.” Can this be the genesis of our demise? The dynamics in business ownership in the Caribbean is slightly different from that of most major cities in the US. I believe that most small businesses on the islands are created from a monopolistic thinking; the belief that the inner strengths and capabilities of the business will make it prevail. In other words, the business provides whatever products and services that they want to their customers (including employees), and he/she has no other choice but to purchase. The alternative is zero. Business ownership with this thinking sees a short painful life in the US. The operators become more entrenched in thinking that it’s their way or the highway. It’s a thought
that only become more uncompro- which allows one to answer some mising as the business slowly dies. key questions: Who are your customers? How will you serve them? In America, the approach to busi- What management style or leaderness is primarily customer driven; ship qualities do you have? it is the belief that customers value What partnerships, if any, would be creativity, and their experiences are critical or useful? Sure! It may apthe keys to business success. In es- pear simple, but trust me, it’s not. sence, the business listens to their customers and provides value in Here are a few guidelines: products and services. The choices are endless. Design: Simply put, thoroughly thinking and writing down what you plan It’s a major culture clash. The in- to do in terms of products and serability to get it the way the customer vices. Analyze your past successes wants it. and failures. Personally, I don’t care if you write it on a napkin, but the I am sure many of you have expe- strategy should be relevant, credirienced business owners making ble, doable, believable, and logically demands on your purchases. For consistent. Do this as honestly and instance, the butcher adds bones to objectively as possible. Remember, your steaks. It was a typical practice no one will beat you. It’s all about in the Caribbean especially with the your creativity. But who will buy it? Saturday butchers. Why can’t I have boneless steaks? Sell the damn Customer: Wait a minute. Before you bones to someone who wants bones sell, one must first determine their for their soups. I want no bone in my intended clientele. Who are the cussteaks! Tell me again! Why can’t I tomers? What do you know about have boneless steaks? That thinking them? What needs are you fulfilling? and practice drove many customers What is your patron base, customto larger grocery chains. “Tis na wuk er prospects, and how best can you ya.” reach them. What are your target market demographics? If the owner In essence, the business owners are cannot answer these questions, he telling their customers, it is more im- or she should pack their bundle and portant for his bottom line than the seek alternative employment. client’s satisfaction. These are the most critical and imNow, I have hundreds of examples portant questions to answers for a to explain the rationale for the quick startup. Why? Simple! If you underdeath of our startups, but time and stand your customer, then everyresources would not permit it. In fact, thing else falls in line: location, adthere are no reasons to list them. It vertising, price, sales and profit. is not about beating our businesses over the head. However, what I want Every entrepreneur should be into dish out in this piece is common tensely focused on his or her proknowledge and know-how, which spective customers. The ability to may improve the likelihood of a suc- find a customer, sell your product or cessful business. A few missteps service to that customer, and satisfy can mean the difference between the customer so that he buys from success and failure. you again should be the central focus of all entrepreneurial activity. For one thing, we have to radically (www.entrepreneur.com) change our thinking in how to navigate in the business landscape. I D-D-D Factor: It simply means, strongly counsel on having a busi- that despite knowing your customness plan. Yes! I know! It is some- ers, know that they Don’t care, they thing that no one wants to do. But, Don’t know, and they Don’t give a it is an essential roadmap for busi- hoot about your “silly-ass” products ness success. This living document and services. They have choices. generally projects 3-5 years ahead Therefore, it is incumbent upon the and outlines the route a company business to reach potential clients at intends to take to grow revenues. the time and place of their choosing (www.sba.gov) to educate them. Quite a different phenomenon! The business plan is a powerful tool Competition: Know everything 360
Sylvanus Donaie, degrees around you. In addition to your customer, the business owner should know each and every one of their competitors. Moreover, what sets your business apart from your competition? Why should a client buy your product or service rather than a competitor’s? These are the questions that the owner should answer in the business plan. Know that, to succeed, small-business owners should keep tabs on their competitors. Know thy self: Many of us think that we know our strengths, and the reality is we don’t. But we should honestly examine ourselves and identify our strengths and our weaknesses. A business owner has to be able to overcome many obstacles and as well as to achieve balance and growth over time. Our Caribbean culture has its advantage and disadvantage? However, some cultural inclinations and approach to business can negatively impact our ability to succeed. As I stated before this is a complex subject matter that cannot be covered in just one publisher’s comment. In a future issue, I will dive more deeply into our customer service issues, use of mass media to attract clients, continued business education training and investing in your business. So until then, One Love! Sylvanus Donaie, BA, BSEE, MTM, MPM, MBA
Of course, I love when you disagree with me, and I want to hear from you. If you disagree, please let me know. You can always email me at sdonaie@olchouston.com.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
APRIL 2015
Who will be Crowned the
Houston Caribbean Queen?
The Houston Caribbean Queen Pageant Friday May 22, 2015
By Sylvanus Donaie Staff Writer The Houston Caribbean Queen Pageant (HCQ Pageant) is proud to announce that it is kicking off its 2nd year of empowering young ladies of Caribbean and Latin American descent. This year the pageant welcomes representatives from the US Virgin Islands, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica, Guyana, Panama, Belize, and Jamaica. The 2015 pageant is one the main attractions in Houston’s Memorial Weekend festival: Carnival Houston. It is an event that celebrates and seeks to make Houstonians aware of various international cultures. This year the Carnival Houston Organization has requested to headline the HCQ Pageant as one of the weekend’s festivities and also feature the newly crowned 2015 Miss Houston Caribbean as the “Queen” of the parade. The beautiful ladies will showcase their talents at 8:00pm on May 22 at the Bayou City Event Center, 9401 Knight Road, Houston. They have been working hard to perfect their crafts and look forward to putting on a show of a lifetime that celebrates both their talents and intellectual abilities. The Houston Caribbean Queen Pageant is a world-class pageant, which focuses on more than the beauty aspect of pageantry. It recognizes that the beautiful young ladies of the Caribbean and Latin America have many unique attributes to offer the world and have ventured on a quest to equip their contestants with the proper skills, knowledge and confidence to do so. The HCQ Pageant experience works towards cultivating all aspects of the contestants’ lives by offering a variety of em-
powerment workshops leading up to the final day of the pageant. The workshops this year include: cooking, etiquette, public speaking, health/fitness and financial acuity, fashion, makeup and career empowerment. Mrs. Henva Bhola-Medlow orchestrated a career empowerment workshop, which resulted in the contestants empowering themselves with tips to successfully find a job and pursue their career goals. The cooking classes, sponsored by Chef Milton of Caribbean Cuisine and Le Norte Culinary Institute, allowed the ladies to perfect not only their native cooking techniques but also explore the fine art of French cuisine. The etiquette class, sponsored by Leisure Learning and taught by Mrs. Kelly Loft, enlightened the young ladies on proper dining protocol. The young ladies, who have aspirations of being accountants, pharmacists, doctors, lawyers and entrepreneurs are now well prepared to entertain distinguished guests of any caliber. The health and fitness workshop hosted by Ms. Tatiana Scott of “Fit with Curves”; she reminded the contestants of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper diet and exercise. She led the contestants in a vigorous workout routine and offered her personal services to help keep them on track towards their best state of wellness. Marva Florent facilitated a financial workshop which was instrumental in educating the
contestants in the importance of proper money management. Since many of the young ladies are just beginning to venture out on their own financially, Mrs. Florent’s workshop provided the necessary education to avoid common financial pitfalls such as credit cards and debt accumulation. Jacklyn Davis of “Jagged Hanger” taught an interactive fashion class to illustrate how to dress appropriately for particular situations. The HCQ Pageant team was also fortunate to collaborate with Lark Miles of the “Make-Up Bar Houston” to organize a makeup class and Greg Solomon of “Strategic Marketing Concepts” who assisted in coaching the contestants for their pageant interview. The Houston Caribbean Queen Pageant is synonymous with uniqueness, prestige and unprecedented service to the community. The proceeds go toward financially supporting the contestant’s educational goals and life both in and out of pageantry. The crowned Queen has the opportunity to win a $3000 scholarship, a Western Caribbean cruise, a professional photography portfolio, and a myriad of other gifts and prizes. An invitation is extended to Houstonians both in and out of the Caribbean Community to come out on next month, May 22 and bask in Caribbean and Latin American culture as to enjoy a one of a kind show. Your attendance will solidify your present and future commitment to empower young ladies and facilitating cultural awareness.
HAITI
PANAMA
Marie Germain
Chelsea Caicedo
TRINBAGO
US VI
Dana McIntyre
Deondra LLoyd
JAMAICA
GUYANA
Janelle Elyt
Amanda Crawford
DOMINICA
BELIZE
Jonel Robins
Kianni Guemez
HOUSTON CARIBBEAN QUEEN PAGEANT
Friday May 22, 2015
APRIL 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
Texas Multicultural Women hosted 6th Annual Prayer Breakfast
HOUSTON — A nine-count Texas Multicultural Women, Inc. (TMW) hosted another successful annual Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, March 21 at the Hilton Houston Westchase. The theme was: “We Are Overcomers.”
Highlights of the event included worshipful singing by Myisha Yumek Tate, and a challenging and inspiring message by Dr. Ida B. Ullrich. Nzinga of Majic 102 Radio, introduced the TMW scholarship recipient. Jessica Dowdy facilitated the program as Mistress of Ceremonies. Dr. Ullrich elaborated on who an overcomer is in the eyes of God, emphasizing the difference be-
The indictment was returned under seal February 26, and unsealed March 24 as the following four charged Houston residents made their initial appearances in federal court: Shakietha Ann Joseph, 39, Nathan Michael, 36, Trevor Ray Frenney, 39, and Hauwa Bello, 37. At that time, U.S. Magistrate Judge Mary Milloy ordered them detained pending further criminal proceedings. Anthony Andrews, 27, also of
L-R: L-R: Janet Stephens, Ann Haye, Charmaine Bailey, Veronica Ricketts and Karen Stephenson at the TMW Prayer Breakfast, 3/2015. OLC Photos
tween an overcomer and a survivor. Overcoming has nothing to do with wealth, education or prestige but rather, enduring and outlasting the difficult situations of life and taking it a step further by forgiving, putting aside anger and grief and forging ahead into
the future that God has provided. She further admonished that in order to do this, one needs the Spirit of God living on the inside. Dr. Ida B. Ullrich is the founder Continue on Page 14
Houston, is in state custody on unrelated charges and is expected to make his appearance in federal court in the near future. A final defendant – Anisha Nicole Gable, 33 – is considered a fugitive; a warrant remains outstanding for her arrest. The six defendants allegedly conspired together in connection with a marriage-fraud ring involving arranged “sham” marriages between recruited U.S. citizens and Nigerian nationals. A “sham” marriage is a marriage that is entered into for the primary purpose of circumventing the immigration laws. “Becoming an American citizen is an honor and a privilege,” said
Brian M. Moskowitz, special agent in charge of HSI Houston. “Obtaining citizenship through fraud threatens the integrity of our legal immigration system and is an affront to every person who has played by the rules. HSI special agents will continue to work with our partners to ensure that those who use criminal and dishonorable means to achieve the most honorable of goals are brought to justice.” Continue on Page 14
STAAR Released Test Questions Texas Education Agency (TEA) releases two types of test questions for the STAAR test - sample questions and test forms. Sample test questions are small subsets of test questions released from the STAAR test banks. These test questions may have been previously administered to Texas students. A test form is a set of released test questions previously administered together to Texas students which reflects the STAAR test blueprints. TEA will release the first test form administered in the spring for each general STAAR assessment in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and every third year thereafter. Released test questions on this webpage do not represent all
IMMIGRATION NEWS SHOULD YOU FILE TAXES By Latania Mena Attorney at Law
Six Houston Residents Indicted in Alleged Marriage Fraud Scheme
HOUSTON — A nine-count indictment against six Houston-area residents was unsealed Wednesday (March 25, 2015) alleging their roles in a marriage-fraud scheme involving Nigerian nationals.
Page 5
The last day to file your federal income tax is April 15th. You may think it doesn’t apply to you because of the source of your income, or because you do not have a traditional job, where the employer makes the required deductions each pay period. While the intent of this article is not to provide tax advice (individuals should always consult with their accountants), if you are not sure what sources of income need to be declared, including sources from outside the U.S., you should consult with a tax preparer. Paying or not paying your taxes can affect your status in the U. S., or your ability to sponsor your relatives. When applying for Citizenship. How you treat your tax obligations can affect your eligibility for naturalization. Most green card holders are aware of the risk of traveling outside the U.S. for an extended period of time. Only a few know of the impact that taxes can have on their immigration status. Many persons spend a substantial amount of time in their home countries and often derive income there. As a result those persons may file tax returns with the IRS as non-residents. In many cases, a permanent resident who has filed taxes as a non-resident is not aware of the potential hazards of doing so until he/she later applies for citizenship. The N-400 Application for Naturalization, requires that all applicants provide certain information about their tax filings since living in the U.S. It specifically asks the following questions: • “Have you ever not filed a Federal, State or local tax return since you became a permanent resident?”
the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) student expectations eligible for assessment on STAAR. Mary McWilliams of Complete the Curriculum said that Parents can access copies of the released tests for both 2013 and 2014. The new tests follow the Common Core Standards, which many students are finding difficult.
• “If yes did you consider yourself to be a non-resident?” • “Have you called yourself a non-resident on a Federal, State or local tax return since you became a Permanent Resident?” This is not to say that answering “yes” to any of these questions will automatically result in a denial of the application, or proceedings to revoke one’s green card. The
United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) will use a number of factors to determine what the applicant intended when the taxes were filed. The point is, filing taxes as a non-resident may lead USCIS to believe that you have not been residing in the U.S. continuously, or that you have abandoned your residency. For those persons who file no taxes, the immigration regulations provide that someone who avoids paying taxes lacks good moral character. Good moral character is a prerequisite for naturalization. Therefore, if you intend to apply for naturalization, you should not be delinquent on your taxes. If you are behind on your tax obligations, you should explore entering a payment plan with the IRS to resolve the issue. You will then be able to present that letter from the IRS confirming the payment plan, to facilitate your naturalization. When sponsoring family members. If you plan on sponsoring your family members, you will need to show that you have filed your taxes. As a part of the petition for your relative, you must show that you, the sponsor make income of at least 125% of the poverty guidelines. To determine your eligibility to file for your relative, USCIS will look at your tax returns to determine your income level for the last 3 years preceding the filing of the petition. Even where you don’t meet the guidelines and a joint sponsor is required, you will still need to show that you have filed taxes or are exempt from doing so. If your relative happens to be your spouse, taxes can affect the success of the marriage petition. For one to become a permanent resident based on marriage, you must prove the marriage is bona fide, i.e. establish that Continue on Page 14
Page 6
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
ARIBBEAN Briefs Grenada Searches for Energy Self-Sufficiency Geothermal or Sea Waves Energy Technology The Government of Grenada intends to reduce the island’s overwhelming dependence on imported fossil fuel. With its energy needs constantly on the rise, Grenada is seeking solutions locally. In September 2014, Grenada and New Zealand signed a Geothermal Support Partnership Framework Agreement to research the potential of harnessing geothermal energy. Soon an Israel company, Blackbird International Corporation (BBRD) will visit Grenada to begin negotiations to implement its sea wave energy system. In accordance with their agreement, Grenada and New Zealand announced that the first component, the pre-field work, which commenced in December 2014, with desk reviews, technical and logistical planning, is completed. Also, the second component, the geological and geochemical surveys, which started in February, is now completed.
along with local personnel, who are familiar with the areas of interest, scouted the islands for suitable sites for geophysics tests. Fifty points have been surveyed, primarily within the northern part of island. These points will be further analyzed during a third component of the surveying, which commenced in mid-March. In this component it is anticipated that a Magnetotelluric (MT) survey will be undertaken.
The geological and geochemical survey recorded the location, temperature and chemistry of twelve thermal manifestations and reviewed the geology of Grenada. Samples will be sent back to New Zealand for analysis.
Magnetotelluric survey is an electromagnetic graphing method used to map sub-surfaces by measuring naturally occurring electric and magnetic fields on the seabed or the Earth’s surface. The result is useful to help determine the presence and extent of the potential geothermal resource.
Surveying, scientists from Jacobs New Zealand Limited
BBRD energy technology is based on the utilization of sea
waves to yield hydraulic pressure that produces electricity. It exploits the full potential of wave speed, height, depth, rise and fall, and currents beneath the surface of the water. BBRD plans to set up a local cooperation in order to implement its unique sea wave energy system. As a first stage, BBRD wishes to start with a 10 megawatts plant and in the second stage, expand to 100 megawatts. Shmuel Ovadia, director and inventor of BBRD’s technology, stated, “Grenada is a perfect location to introduce sea wave energy as a viable and profitable solution for the rising energy needs by implementing our patented technology.” Nearly 60% of Grenada’s energy sources are based on diesel fuel, and hence Grenada is heavily reliant on imported fuels to meet its local energy demands.
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APRIL 2015
OECS: On Increasing Tension Between US and Venezuela
OLC: CASTRIES, Saint Lucia -- The Authority of Heads of Government of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) noted “with grave concern” the increasing tension in the relations between the United States and Venezuela. In a March 20, 2015 press release, the organization said, “The OECS cherishes the principles of democracy and the rule of law, and peaceful coexistence and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. The OECS also values highly, the longstanding friendship of its neighbors the United States of America and Venezuela, countries which constitute perpetual, integral and indivisible parts of our hemisphere. Unilateral and unwarranted actions only serve to undermine these principles.” Continuing, the release stated, “It is deeply concerned that statements and actions in the recent past concerning the rela-
tions between the United States and Venezuela have served only to heighten tensions in the relations between those countries, and to undermine the peace and security of the region and the hemisphere as a whole.” The organization ended saying, “The OECS therefore calls for a return to the spirit and practice of dialogue as the principal means to the resolution of differences and conflict. The OECS also calls upon both countries to refrain from actions and statements which serve to hamper the legitimate desires of the people of our hemisphere for peace as a foundation upon which to build a better future.”
Dominica’s Education Minister “Every Child Must Succeed”
OLC: The Dominica government continues to accentuate the need for higher education from the Dominica State College (DSC), the Minister for Education, Petter Saint Jean, said. He was the keynote speaker at the 2015 DSC Spring Commencement Ceremony on March 20, 2015. One hundred students graduated. According to the Minister, his administration is providing support to make available a package of affordable, high quality and relevant programs at the DSC. “This is based on our belief that citizens, at every stage of their learning journey from early years to adulthood, should be able to reach their full potential and be successful in life at work and in society. The Government, in which I serve, is of the view that to achieve any significant level of economic and social growth, a sound education system must be in place.”
He continues, “Government has also demonstrated its commitment through investments in the education sector, particularly by facilitating the introduction of new degree programs at the DSC including Mass Communications, Plumbing Technology, Political Science, and Pre-Teacher Education among others.” Additionally, this is evident through its investment in physical infrastructure, the most recent: the new state-of-the-art Dominica State College which officially opened September 2013. Continue on Page 14
APRIL 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
Caribbean Governments Urged to Pass Proceeds of Crime Act OLC: The United States urges Caribbean governments to pass Proceeds of Crime Legislation. Consul general at the US Embassy, Mark Bysfield gave this advice during his address to the Regional Security System (RSS) Council of Ministers’ Meeting in Barbados.
cent – had passed civil asset forfeiture legislation. Proceeds of Crime Act provides a scheme to trace, restrain and confiscate assets which are wholly or partly derived from crime or which have been used in the commission of a crime.
Those present included Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Timothy Harris, and Chairman of RSS and Dominica’s Minister of Justice, Immigration and National Security, Rayburn Blackmoore.
“We anticipate that the first successful prosecutions of civil asset forfeiture cases will occur this year. Civil asset recovery legislation deprives drug traffickers and other criminals of the incentive to bring their operations to your shores,” he said.
To date, only four member states – Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica and St Vin-
Moreover, “Our model law includes a dedicated forfeiture fund, which requires that 100
per cent of all seized proceeds go back to support police, prosecutors, victim restitution, substance abuse prevention and payment of RSS dues,” Bysfield explained.
Obama to Visit Jamaica and Panama OLC: The White House reports that President Barack Obama will travel to Jamaica and Panama from April 8-11. In Jamaica, President Obama will meet with leaders from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and with Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller to discuss our ongoing partnership with the region, including through the administration’s Caribbean Energy Security Initiative. The intended visit has triggered a preparation phase to include cleaning out street vendors to present a sanitized version of Kingston. The Jamaica Observer reports that the Jamaican authorities are cleaning areas where Obama will be traveling. During the visit, Jamaica will host an encounter between
President Obama and the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for discussions on issues on the CARICOM-USA agenda, including security and trade. They will also exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. In welcoming the visit, Prime Minister Simpson Miller noted: “The Government of Jamaica is delighted that President Obama will be visiting Jamaica at this time. It will mark the second time since our Independence that a sitting US President will be visiting Jamaica. We view the President’s upcoming visit as an affirmation of the strong ties of friendship and cooperation that have united our two peoples for centuries. We are confident that through fruitful dialogue and exchanges during the visit we will succeed in
Page 7
Garifunas Return Home to St. Vincent
OLC: Kingstown, St. Vincent - The Garifuna Heritage Foundation of St. Vincent and The Grenadines held the First International Garifuna Summit during the Annual Celebration of National Heroes and Heritage Month on St. Vincent, March 8 – 15, 2015. The theme was “The Garifuna, A Nation Displaced- Cultural Rights, Economic Survival and Reparations.” The celebration is collaborated with the St. Vincent’s Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture. The rhythms of the drum and dance are at the center of the Garifuna culture.
T&T on Spiritual Shouter Baptist Liberation Day further strengthening the close relations that exist at the bilateral level between Jamaica and the USA, and between the USA and CARICOM.” The President will then travel to Panama where he will participate with 34 other leaders in the Seventh Summit of the Americas. While in Panama, President Obama will hold a bilateral meeting with Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, and meet with leaders from the Central American Integration System (SICA).
Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Nineteen (19) years ago in 1996, the government of the day, under the leadership of Prime Minister Basdeo Panday, honored and recognized the Baptist faith and its members by granting them their very own public holiday. March 30 was chosen because it was on that day in 1951, the infamous Shouters Prohibition Ordinance of 1917 was repealed thus allowing the Spiritual Shouter Baptists to worship and practice their faith openly without any continued discrimination and repression. Like all others, this faith community enjoys protection under Trinidad and Tobago’s 1976 Republican Constitution, which guarantees all citizens, “freedom of conscience and religious belief and observance”. Although the origins of the Spiritual Shouter Baptist Faith in Trinidad and Tobago can be traced to foreign countries, it has evolved over time to become a unique, indigenous religion. It has managed to fuse the spontaneity and rhythms of Africa with the restrained, traditional tenets of Christianity
to produce a religion that is vibrant, expressive and dynamic. Today, the Spiritual Shouter Baptist Community constitutes a most colorful and vibrant part of our country’s religious mosaic. Indeed, many of ours sons and daughters of this faith are highly respected, not only among their own, but also in the wider society. Many of them are professionals who hold substantive positions in both the public and private sectors. The Spiritual Shouter Baptist Community also plays a critical role in the education of our nation’s children by proudly managing their very own St. Barbara’s Spiritual Shouter Baptist Primary School in Maloney. The government began construction of the school in 2011 and it was completed and officially opened in 2012. Indeed it was a long road for the Spiritual Shout Baptist community but they persevered and, with the commitment of my government, this dream and prayer of having their own school became a reality. Continue on Page 14
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APRIL 2015
MADD COLORS BAND LAUNCH Houston TX, March 28, 2015: The 2-time Houston Caribbean Festival Band of the Year, Houston Madd Colors, hosted its successful 2015 Carnival Band Launch in Houston Texas with hundreds of Houston Madd Colors supporters attending. The event, whose costume theme, “Destination X,” was kept as a tight, guarded secret, was received with praises by fellow band members and supporters.
on www.maddcolorscarnival.com . Houston Caribbean Carnival will be held on Sunday July 5, 2015 at Tom Bass Park. Atlanta Carnival will be held during Memorial Day Weekend.
“A big thank you to everyone one for coming out to Madd Colors band Launch we deeply appreciate the love and support”, said Houston Madd Colors Band Leader Moida Greyson on her social media page. The “Destination X” carnival theme sets sights on three popular destinations: Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), Dubai and Honolulu (Hawaii). A portions of the costume sale will be donated to Breast Cancer Awareness. “This is an issue that is important to many of us in the community”, continued Moida Greyson, “many of our members have had to deal with cancer through family members and loved ones. Houston Madd Colors in addition to being a festive group of family, it is also an organization that seeks to empower members of our community through awareness on important matters such as health.” Entertainment was provided by Dj Vybz, Texas Outlaw and DJ Danny Boy. If you would like to join Houston Madd Colors for the 2015 Houston Caribbean Carnival, contact Moida Greyson at 832-265-3660. If you are in Atlanta, log
BISSONNET ONE STOP CARIBBEAN MARKET 13655 Bissonnet Street, Suite 205, Houston Texas 77083
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APRIL 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
PHOTOS
Houston Caribbean
Page 9
It’s Ja-Ga Reggae Fest 2015 Jamaica is the home of “all right”. Here in the Houston area, we may not be able to get the flora, the waterways and the landscapes. But we can get a piece of the culture – for all. You do not have to be Jamaican. You just need to feel the vibes, rock to the music, sample the cuisine, enjoy the Jerk Cook-Off, rave at the hot Patty eaters, enjoy some dance culture, check out the crafts and enjoy the ambiance. You do not have to be a connoisseur. But you need to be willing to let go, enjoy the island feel and relax. Do you Ja-Ga? Ja-Ga Fest is the juggernaut of music festivals! Are you ready to be entertained?! Ja-Ga Fest will not disappoint! The next staging of Ja-Ga Fest will be April 25-26, 2015 at Beach Central, Galveston. Patrons will be presented with a stupendous lineup from among the brightest stars in reggae music. We will pump up the volume with the electrifying dancehall artist, I Octane!! Note however that I-Octane performs very early on Saturday afternoon – look out for that. There is a massive surprise especially for Soca fans! Yes, the Vagabond, Ricardo Drue will be in town to rock de place on Saturday night. Junior Reid reminds us that we are all ‘One Blood.’ Junior closes out Saturday night with the Platinum One Band. The lovely award-winning Tasha T. will charm you on Sunday afternoon. After that, the reggae crooner Sanchez will thrill with his love songs and a voice as smooth as silk. Then International Reggae Ambassadors, Third World, will rock you with a solid set from their catalogue of hits to close the
festival on Sunday. There will be local bands from Houston and Galveston. There will be cultural dances. There will be fashion. Furthermore, you will witness the Jamaican patty eating contest! This competition is open to all who dare! So is the Jerk-Cook off – strut your best stuff. Get your tickets early as early bird tickets will not be available much longer! There are several ways to get your hands on tickets! Our website jagareggaefest.com provides access to tickets as well as additional information. Tickets are also available for purchase at several stores throughout Houston such as Bissonnet 1 Stop Caribbean Market, Caribbean Cuisine Restaurant, Cool Runnings Restaurant, Gracie’s Café, House of Manna Restaurant, Love Bird Restaurant, Tropical Diner Restaurant, as well as from some members of The Jamaica Foundation of Houston. There are also exciting ways for you to WIN tickets. Watch for these. In short, the Ja-Ga Reggae Fest is wholesome entertainment for the entire family! Children twelve and under enter FREE! They must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. There will be face painting, Jupiter Jumps and other things guaranteed to keep them busy and having loads of fun! But leave all pets at home. No weapons please. Be there! See you at Beach Central Park, 2100 Seawall Blvd. Galveston, TX. Gates open at 10 am Saturday April 25 and 12 noon Sunday April 26. There is a Launch Party onApril 17 at 10 pm at Hollywood Event Center, 9759 S Highway 6 and after parties Saturday night in Galveston – watch for these.
Trini meet Bajan Share your saltfish out mi rice.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
ONNECTIONS
Fear of the Black man
How Racial Bias Could Affect Crime and Labor Rates ples.” So it’s also important to keep in mind, that this fear is deeply engrained in the American psyche. So much so that, we are now purposefully teaching youngsters of African heritage how to survive or deal with social encounters involving law enforcement agents and potential employers. The fact that this type of civic investment targets, particularly young Black men, is revealing in itself of a greater problem.
Terry Layne Staff Writer tlayne@olchouston.com Recently, I was stuck in traffic while driving on the Interstate Highway; so I dialed into the National Public Radio (NPR), right at the top of Michel Martin’s show, “All Things Considered.” During the broadcast, Ms Martin interviewed Harry Holzer, Professor of Public Policy at Georgetown University; and Phillip Atiba Goff, a Social Psychologist at UCLA. The focus of this conversation was about this historical “fear of African American men;” and how it may impact crime and labor rates throughout the country. Almost instantly, my reaction was, “Ok, what now?” What’s new about all this, anyway? But since I was just sitting there in traffic; I had little else to do but really think about the topic at hand. Michel Martin called it “an open secret” among African American males of all ages that people (having justifications in their own minds) are frequently afraid of us. Too often and for too long, African American males are seen as “dangerous.” By the way, the phrase African American males as used in this article, refers to all males having visible physical characteristics and typical features of the majority autochthonous population of Sub-Saharan Africa. In other words, it does not matter where you were born or what language you speak; if you look Sub-Saharan African, particularly in skin complexion, this is about you. According to Paul Butler, a Georgetown University Professor of Law, “the notion that Black men are dangerous is one of this country’s foundational and organizing princi-
But aside from that, psychologist Phillip Goff conducted a research about how police officers viewed, even very young African American boys. He found that officers typically overestimated the age of young Black children. Obviously, this alone can set the stage for all kinds of problems. In part, this overestimation of age may have something to do with a general unfamiliarity. But in addition, and according to Goff’s findings; it may also have something to with “implicit associations” throughout our communities “between the color black and something less than human.” And still yet what is more definite is that it has to do with what Goff describes as a general lack of full appreciation for the humanity of people of African heritage, from the cradle to the grave. Another area of focus in the conversation was related to how race influences decisions in hiring; particularly race-based fears. Harry Holzer finds that employers have concerns about “weaker job performances” of African American males as compared to Black women, and other groups. Then if they are weaker performers; employers may worry about increased voluntary terminations; increased discharges; and higher levels of corrective disciplinary actions. These fears are further connected to fears of intra-staff conflicts; and ultimately fears of being sued for discriminatory practices, wrongful termination, denial of promotions; or anything else that may come up. These are the types of unseen hurdles which African American males and females must clear before being hired in many cases. It’s not enough that they must master their own anxieties about the job interviews and positions being sought; but there
are also all these fears in the minds of the interviewers that must be allayed; if they would be selected. The challenges are daunting! And you know what? None of this is limited to secularism. During the broadcast, we also heard from an ordained minister, Leo Cunningham from Columbus, Ohio. He talked about his “gut punch” received from his potential employers (church people) when, despite having two Masters Degrees, plus an undergraduate degree and previous experience; he got told the following: “It doesn’t matter if we think you’re called and ordained by God to be a pastoral leader. The color of your skin prohibits us from wanting to hear anything you have to say about God or our community.” As it relates to the work environment, Phillip Goff reminded us that for people who belong to groups having stigmas with which they must contend; however frequently, it can become rather consuming on their abilities to do anything else. It becomes a constant distraction from the tasks at hand. What was my take away from this thought provoking show? Clearly, I found value in the simple consciousness about work needing to be done, as it relates to the topical situations in discussions. Additionally there is hardly space available to lay out a list of possible actions or activities for our undertakings. But wouldn’t it be a great thing; if some reader or listener to the broadcast could look back to these public discussions and say, “This was my incentive to choose; or continue along this pathway; or go in this direction?” Wouldn’t that be great? But I was also left a similar hope in diversification as mentioned by one of the guest on the show. A hope that points to our growing diversity in cities, regions, states; and even as nations become increasingly diversified in populations, that the fallacy of superiority/inferiority will crumble before paradigms of opportunity and possibility. To this end, fearbased stereotypes will be lessened; all people will be confident in their respective identities; and the purveyors of an equitable system of access and opportunities prevail.
APRIL 2015
Reparations Must Be Based On Diplomacy NASSAU, Bahamas (BGIS) -- Barbados and other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states will go the route of diplomacy and not protest on the issue of reparations for native genocide and slavery, Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart told members of the media during a press conference on the final day of the 26th inter-sessional conference of CARICOM heads of government in Nassau, Bahamas. Stuart stated that the issue was not going “to be an overnight initiative”, but one in which the entire region was “irrevocably committed”. “There is going to be no retreat on the issue of reparations. But the point has to be made that we do not pursue the issue of reparations on the basis of protest; we are pursuing the issue of reparations on the basis of engagement,” he stressed. Saying that regional leaders would do nothing to undermine the current relations between former slave trading nations by embarking on a confrontational approach, Stuart gave the assurance that leaders would not turn their backs on the history and the legacy which has been bequeathed as a result of slavery and native genocide. “We contemplate, therefore, as a first measure, having a discussion with designated countries former slave trading countries to see what areas of agreement exist and whether there can be an amicable and civilized resolution to our differences,” he explained. The prime minister made it
clear that regional governments were not trying to get sizeable monetary compensation from the former slave trading nations through court action but to remind them of the impact of slavery on persons in the Caribbean. “There is a legacy with which we are dealing, and what we are trying to sensitise former slave trading nations to is the existence of that legacy and to the connection between that legacy and their actions in the 17th, 18th and part of the 19th century,” he said. Stuart, who chairs the prime ministerial sub-committee on reparations, stressed that achievements would most likely not be realized in the short-term. “We have to take the long view on this issue recognizing the legacy that we are fighting did not take shape overnight and, therefore, it is not going to be dismantled overnight, but we have to start somewhere starting with the pursuit of reparatory justice,” he said. He noted that Haiti was a very good example of the social, economic and political deficit in the region that was a direct result of slavery and it was necessary to try and see what developmental initiatives could be initiated to redress some of the imbalances. Stuart added that, with the United Nations designating this decade as one for people of African descent, it was time “to take full advantage of this and ensure that the agenda of the decade reflects some of our more fundamental concerns.”
CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in The Bahamas (February 26-27, 2015) at the 26th Inter-Sessional Conference
APRIL 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
Page 11
BIRTHDAYS IN THE DIASPORA
Dr Patricia Janki Guyana
Marva Layne Panama
Linda Newton-Joseph St. Kitts
MARVA LAYNE
AN INSPIRATIONAL MOMENT Encouragement from the Word of God
Easter: Death Defeated Lawrence Herman St. Lucia
Andre Trinidad and Tobago
• Although the Jews and the Romans killed Him, it was He who actually gave Himself up as a sacrifice. John 10:18 “No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily.”
Michelle Burt St. Kitts
• His dying was not about Himself, it was about us – so that we could have life. John 3:16 “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. Michelle Duncan Trinidad and Tobago
Roselle Joseph Trinidad and Tobago
• He died without animosity and forgave His killers. Luke 23:34 “ Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing”
Garnet Jean Baptiste St. Lucia
Charmaine Bailey Staff Writer cbailey@olchouston.com
Alex St Clair St. Lucia
Rebecca Romeo Panama
Thecia Jenkins Texas
Francis Theodore Mitchell St. Lucia
Dr. Junior Thompson Barbados
Ke’vaughn Waldon Jamaica
Jerry Castro-Cayetano Guatemala
Choco Trini Guevarra Trinidad and Tobago
Milton Royer Dominica
Email your birthday announcement to info@olchouston.com
Easter is one of my favorite time of year, not only for what it signifies to believers but also, it is the time of year when dormant things come to life, a season of birth, rebirth, bright colors and a freshness in the atmosphere. But it is impossible to discuss the new life that Easter is all about without focusing on death, which is also a part of the Easter story. While most people do not like to think or talk about death, it is one of the realities of life. As the saying goes: “only two things are certain – death and taxes”. Of the two, taxes may one day be abolished, but death is here to stay. It is a part of life, and in the same way that we plan our lives and make decisions that affect the way we live, it is important for us to make decisions that affect the way we die. No, I’m not referring to euthanasia or anything similar, but rather, the ability to face death without fear. This was one of the results of Jesus’ death - because He conquered death, we do not have to fear death. Hebrews 2:14-15 (CEV) “…..He died to destroy the devil, who had power over death. 15 But he also died to rescue all of us who live each day in fear of dying.” Here are some important truths regarding Jesus’ death that should impact our lives: • Jesus came for the purpose of dying. Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came ..... to give his life as a ransom for many.”
• He gave up His spirit. He did not struggle to stay in His body. Luke 23:46 “Then Jesus shouted, “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!” And with those words he breathed his last.” • He did not remain dead; He rose again with a transformed (resurrected) body. 1 Corinthians 15:20 “...Christ has been raised from the dead...” • He was resurrected so that believers will know that they too will be resurrected. 1 Corinthians 15:21-23 “…just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. 23 Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.” Death became mankind’s earthly end because of sin, but through Christ there is no longer a reason to fear death since we can have eternal life by accepting Him as our Savior and Lord. Death only affects us in this life but since we no longer fear death, we can enjoy life and make practical plans with our family and loved ones. We can talk about death without feeling gloomy. We can put aside superstitions regarding death and dying. In addition, we can anticipate with joy, a reunion with our loved ones who died in Christ. Yes! Death is defeated! Praise the Lord! Charmaine Bailey is a speaker and a Christian Education Teacher. She studied Christian Education at Jamaica Theological Seminary and hold a BA Linguistics from the University of the West Indies.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
OPEN EDITORIAL
Portia Simpson Miller, Prime Minister of Jamaica “Acknowledge the Tragedy, Consider the Legacy, Lest We Forget” The Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, Prime Minister of Jamaica, spoke at the unveiling ceremony of “The Ark of Return”, the Permanent Memorial at United Nations headquarters to honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade
Today, is all the more fitting for this International Day of Commemoration, as it was on March 25, 1807 that one European nation, Britain, passed a law to ban the forced relocation of our ancestors. Slavery continued for much longer. So for us, freedom came after a long journey. Freedom was not gifted to us, but was rather, earned by the sweat and blood of millions of our forebears, on whose backs the economic foundations of the New World were built. Our people were strengthened by the hope of freedom and emboldened by the certainty of the inalienable right of every man, woman and child to a life of dignity and equality. The indomitable spirit of our ancestors triumphed and conquered the “Door of No Return”. Here we are today, in New York to unveil the Permanent Memorial - The Ark of Return. For generations of Africans, the return to their home, language and lifestyle, kept the flames of freedom burning, and the embers of hope smoldering through the centuries.
Henry Martin Appointed Chief of Staff to OAS Secretary General St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): Henry-Martin has been appointed to the post of Chief of Staff to Organization of American States (OAS) Secretary-General Luis Almagro. In 2013, Jacinth Henry-Martin visited St. Kitts and Nevis nationals in Houston as the St. Kitts and Nevis Ambassador to the United States.
Today is a significant day in history especially for Africans at home and in the Diaspora. As Bob Marley sang: “There’s a natural mystic flowing through the air. If you listen carefully you will hear.”
APRIL 2015
The Secretary General tweeted the news Monday. The Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, Prime Minister of Jamaica, account of the Slave Trade on the Coast of Africa” by Dr. Alexander Falconbridge, a British surgeon who took part in four voyages in slavers between 1780 and 1787:
ticipated in the design competition, the eminent judges and the winner – Rodney Leon – who designed the Memorial, and as the Architect, also delivered the final product.
“The slaves lie on bare planks. The surgeon, upon going between decks, in the morning, to examine the situation, frequently finds several dead. These dead slaves are thrown to the sharks. It often happens that those who are placed at a distance from the latrine buckets, in trying to get to them, tumble over their companions, as a result of being shackled. This situation is added to by the tubs being too small and only emptied once every day.”
I am grateful to all the countries that stood with Jamaica to ensure that funding was secured.
Today, our sensibilities are not shaped just by the painful memories. Rather, our vision of the self and the future is fired by the light of liberty for which many of our ancestors fought and died. I am proud that the countries of the Caribbean Community took the lead in initiating this project with the support of the African Union. Jamaica has had the honor to chair the Committee to oversee the Permanent Memorial project. I salute all the artists who par-
As we unveil this Permanent Memorial at the United Nations in Honor of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, may the people of the world never again experience such tragedy and inhumanity as chattel slavery. Let this Memorial be a motivating force to galvanize our individual and collective resolve to stamp out the contemporary evil of modern day slavery, child labor and human trafficking.
“I am Happy to Announce Ambassador Jacinth Henry-Martin as my Chief of Staff as of 05-26.” The first female to serve as St. Kitts and Nevis Ambassador to the U.S., Ms Henry-Martin also becomes the first female to serve as Chief of Staff to the OAS. The former St. Kitts and Nevis government Minister, Henry-Martin served as Ambassador to the United States since February 2011. She recently resigned her post, following a change of administration in St. Kitts and Nevis. Jacinth Henry-Martin was born in Sandy Point, St. Kitts. She studied Modern Languages and Cultural Management in Venezuela, and holds a Masters of Arts in Technical & Specialized Translation from the University of Westminster in the United Kingdom. She is fluent in three languages:
English, French and Spanish. A storyteller, poet, dramatist, songwriter and a published author, Ms Henry-Martin was the first person to win the title of national calypso queen. Henry-Martin has held a variety of teaching, administrative, banking and secretarial positions, including bilingual secretary to the ambassador of Venezuela in St. Kitts. She was appointed Director of Culture in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Environment in 1996 and in 2000 was made a Senator and Permanent Secretary in the same Ministry. Elected to the National Assembly as a Labour Party candidate in March 2000, Henry-Martin became Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports. She also served as the Director-General of the CARIFESTA VII in 2000. In 2005 she was named Deputy High Commissioner at the St. Kitts and Nevis embassy in London, UK, where she served until December 2008. In 2009 she took up the position as Director of U.S. Operations for the St. Kitts Tourism Authority. She served in the post until her 2011 appointment as Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary to the US and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States.
May we use this Memorial to say “NO” to all forms of racism, discrimination and intolerance, and maintain the fight to end racial discrimination and injustice wherever in the world they exist. May the souls of the millions who endured the African holocaust rest in peace. I thank you.
I stand before you today with mixed emotions: celebrating the ultimate triumph over the inhumane conditions of the Middle Passage and the reprehensible economic and social architecture of plantation slavery. At the same time, I, the proud daughter of the Ashanti Queen, Nanny of the Maroons, cannot ignore the unspeakable tragedy of the many millions who succumbed to the dastardly conditions, and whose memories now pave the annals of our history.
My soul remains tortured by the historical memory of the travails of the Middle Passage, as recounted in the book, “An
Construction of a permanent memorial in acknowledgement of the tragedy and in consideration of the legacy of slavery and the trans-Atlantic slave trade is underway at the Visitors’ Plaza of UN headquarters in New York. Entitled “The Ark of Return”, the memorial was designed by architect Rodney Leon, and is scheduled to be unveiled on March 25.
In 2013, Jacinth Henry-Martin visited St. Kitts and Nevis nationals in Houston as the St. Kitts and Nevis Ambassador to the United States.
APRIL 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
Health & Wellness In Honor of Venessa Clarke
Understanding Lupus
Source: The Lupus Foundation of America.
In lupus, something goes wrong with your immune system, which is the part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria, and germs (“foreign invaders,” like the flu). Normally our immune system produces proteins called antibodies that protect the body from these invaders. Autoimmune means your immune system cannot tell the difference between these foreign invaders and your body’s healthy tissues (“auto” means “self”) and creates autoantibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body. Lupus is also a disease of flares (the symptoms worsen and you feel ill) and remissions (the symptoms improve and you feel better). These are some additional facts about lupus that you should know: • Lupus is not contagious, not even through sexual contact. You cannot “catch” lupus from someone or “give” lupus to someone. • Lupus is not like or related to cancer. Cancer is a condition of malignant, abnormal tissues that grow rapidly and spread into surrounding tissues. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, as described above. • Lupus is not like or related to HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus) or AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). In HIV or AIDS the immune system is underactive; in lupus, the immune system is overactive.
• Test results that suggest lupus can be due to other illnesses or can even be seen in healthy people. people throughout the world have a form of lupus. • Lupus strikes mostly women of childbearing age (15-44). However, men, children, and teenagers develop lupus, too. Most people will develop lupus between the ages of 15-44. • Women of color are two to three times more likely to develop lupus than Caucasians. • People of all races and ethnic groups can develop lupus. What are the common symptoms of lupus? Because lupus can affect so many different organs, a wide range of symptoms can occur. These symptoms may come and go, and different symptoms may appear at different times during the course of the disease. The most common symptoms of lupus, which are the same for females and males, are: • • • • •
• •
• Our research estimates that at least 1.5 million Americans have lupus. The actual number may be higher; however, there have been no large-scale studies to show the actual number of people in the U.S. living with lupus.
• • •
• It is believed that 5 million
A variety of laboratory tests are used to detect physical changes or conditions in your body that can occur with lupus. Each test result adds more information to the picture your doctor is forming of your illness. However, for a number of reasons listed below, laboratory tests alone cannot give a definite “yes” or “no” answer: • No single laboratory test can determine whether a person has lupus.
• Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and should always be treated by a doctor. With good medical care, most people with lupus can lead a full life.
• More than 16,000 new cases of lupus are reported annually across the country.
necessary for a doctor to make a diagnosis of lupus.
• •
•
Extreme fatigue (tiredness) Headaches Painful or swollen joints Fever Anemia (low numbers of red blood cells or hemoglobin, or low total blood volume) Swelling (edema) in feet, legs, hands, and/or around eyes Pain in chest on deep breathing (pleurisy) Butterfly-shaped rash across cheeks and nose Sun- or light-sensitivity (photosensitivity) Hair loss Abnormal blood clotting Fingers turning white and/ or blue when cold (Raynaud’s phenomenon) Mouth or nose ulcers
Many of these symptoms occur in other illnesses. In fact, lupus is sometimes called “the great imitator” because its symptoms are often like the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, blood dis-
• A test result may be positive orders, fibromyalgia, diabetes, one time and negative another thyroid problems, Lyme disease, time. and a number of heart, lung, muscle, and bone diseases. • Different laboratories may produce different test results. How is lupus diagnosed? In lupus, something goes wrong If multiple criteria are present with your immune system, the simultaneously, a physician—a part of the body that fights off vi- family practitioner, internist or ruses, bacteria, and germs (“for- pediatrician—may reach a lupus eign invaders” like the flu). diagnosis. If, however, as is often the case, symptoms develop Normally, our immune system gradually over time, the diagnoproduces proteins called an- sis may not be as obvious, and tibodies that protect the body consultation with a rheumatolofrom foreign invaders. When gist may be needed. you have lupus, your immune system cannot tell the difference How is lupus treated? between these foreign invaders Lupus symptoms vary from one and your body’s healthy tissues, person to another. In many casso autoantibodies (auto means es, the best treatment approach self and anti means against: is with a health care team that against self) are made that dam- will tailor treatment to your speage and destroy healthy tissue. cific condition. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in Today, physicians treat lupus various parts of the body. using a wide variety of medicines, ranging in strength from A doctor who is considering the mild to extremely strong. Prepossibility of lupus will look for scribed medications will usually signs of inflammation which in- change during a person’s lifeclude, pain, heat, redness, swell- time with lupus. However, it can ing, and loss of function at a take months - sometimes years particular place in the body. In- - before your health care team flammation can occur on the in- finds just the right combination side of your body (your kidneys of medicines to keep your lupus or heart, for example), on the symptoms under control. outside (your skin), or both. There are many categories of There are many challenges to drugs physicians use to treat reaching a lupus diagnosis. Lu- lupus. However, the U.S. Food pus is known as “the great imitator” because its symptoms mimic many other illnesses. Lupus symptoms can also be unclear, can come and go, and can change. A physician will carefully review the following while evaluating a lupus diagnosis: • your current symptoms • your laboratory test results • your medical history • the medical history of your close family members (grandparents, parents, brothers and sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins) All of this information may be
Page 13 and Drug Administration or “FDA” has approved only a few specifically for lupus, which include: • Corticosteroids, including prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and hydrocortisone • Antimalarials, such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil®) and chloroquine • The monoclonal antibody belimumab (Benlysta®) • Aspirin A rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in diseases of the joints and muscles, generally treats people with lupus. If lupus has caused damage to a particular organ, other specialists will be consulted. For instance, a dermatologist for cutaneous lupus (skin disease), a cardiologist for heart disease, a nephrologist for kidney disease, a neurologist for brain and nervous system disease, or a gastroenterologist for gastrointestinal tract disease. A woman with lupus who is considering a pregnancy needs an obstetrician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies. Once you have been diagnosed with lupus, your doctor will develop a treatment plan based on your age, symptoms, general health, and lifestyle. The goals of any treatment plan are to: • Reduce inflammation caused by lupus • Suppress your overactive immune system • Prevent flares, and treat them when they occur • Control symptoms like joint pain and fatigue • Minimize damage to organs People with lupus often require other drugs to treat conditions commonly seen with the disease. Examples include: • Diuretics for fluid retention • Antihypertensive drugs for high blood pressure • Anticonvulsants for seizure disorders • Antibiotics for infections • Bone-strengthening drugs for osteoporosis
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
APRIL 2015
COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE Mount Bethel House of Prayer in Houston 6818 Cullen Boulevard Houston, TX 77021
Spiritual Baptist Church Mother Kathleen Joseph
(713) 842-2990
From Page 7 ...T&T My government continues to give support to, and partners with the Baptist community – and all other faiths – in building a better society and proudly highlighting this nation as a beacon for all other countries where “every creed and race” does indeed “find an equal place.”
be described as the mecca for the Shouter Baptist movement in the Caribbean.
From Page 5 ...TMW
recting services and resources to assist families in the Houston area and by collaborating with other organizations that support humanitarian needs locally and internationally. For more information about TMW and their upcoming events and projects, email: texasmulticultural@gmail.com or visit their website at: www.texasmulticulturalwomen.org.
I thank the Spiritual Shouter Baptist Community for their tireless efforts in the process of nation building and economic development, and I offer my prayers to them as they celebrate this very important occasion of Spiritual Shouter BapTrinidad and Tobago can easily tist Liberation Day.” of Woman Rise Up Ministries, Elijah to Elisha Apostolic Prophetic Training Center and Senior Pastor of Quickening Word Church. She is also the author of more than 10 books. TMW is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization that exists to offer community support by di-
This is in addition to commencement of work at the old wing of the college for the establishment of an ICT Center for Excellence and innovation, which will cost Dominica about US$120,000.
in the process of introducing a degree program in Fashion Design and a certificate program in Fashion Technology and Instrument Repair and Maintenance. These, I have been advised, are expected to come on-stream in September 2015,” he said.
Education Minister Saint Jean announced new courses to come on-stream as of this year. “The college’s programs are also aligned with the Ministry of Education’s recently-renewed focus on technical vocational educational and training as it is
Saint Jean revealed that plans are also afoot to establish a fully-functional School of Agriculture and Tourism at the DSC, two of the island main economic drivers. The program will be funded by the Government of Dominica.
rom Page 5 ...Immigration
future, which require showing good moral character, or attaining favorable discretion of the officer adjudicating your case. Filing your taxes may be given considerable weight in determining the outcome of your case. For instance, if an undocumented person is placed in removal proceedings before an Immigration Judge, this person may be eligible for Cancellation of Removal from the U.S.
From Page 6 ...Dominica
there is marital life together and not just to get a green card. USCIS will consider your tax returns as a part of the evidence, and will look to see if you and your spouse filed taxes jointly. Similarly, if you are filing a petition to convert your 2-year residence card to a 10-year card, jointly filed tax returns are again important in establishing that the marriage is bona fide. No Legal Status in the U.S. Should you take advantage of this and forego your tax obligations? In my opinion, you should still pay your taxes. You may become eligible for certain immigration benefits in the
This requires a showing that he/she resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years and has good moral character, and having filed tax returns for those years can help to establish both of these requirements. If you do not have a social security number and wish to file your taxes,
Member of the Houston Virgin Islands Association at their March 2015 Meeting From Page 5 ...Marriage Fraud The indictment alleges conspirators paid U.S. citizens for entering into fraudulent marriages to Nigerian nationals who had originally entered the country on tourist visas. These conspirators then completed immigration documents and submitted them to USCIS to obtain U.S. permanent resident status, according to the indictment. As part of the conspiracy, the indictment further alleges they took staged photographs of themselves as a couple to document an allegedly meaningful relationship. The conspirators also allegedly coached the recruits and/or the Nigerian nationals on what to say when questioned or interviewed by law enforcement or immigration officials about the legiti-
mate nature of the marriages. The indictment charges all six with conspiracy to commit marriage fraud. Gable is also charged with four counts of aiding and abetting marriage fraud; Joseph and Frenney are each charged with two counts of the same allegation. Michael and Bello were also indicted on one count of committing marriage fraud. Gable allegedly recruited Andrews, Frenney and Joseph to marry Nigerian nationals. The indictment further alleges Bello did knowingly marry Frenney, a U.S. citizen, for the purpose of evading any provision of the immigration laws of the United States. Similarly, Michael allegedly entered into a sham marriage with Joseph, according
you can obtain a Taxpayer Iden- in this article do not create a lawtification Number from the IRS. yer-client relationship, is for inforFiling your taxes may be one of the most important things you do in planning for your immigration status, and helping your relatives attain theirs. Don’t delay filing your taxes or resolving any tax issues you are currently experiencing. See a CPA today! The analysis and suggestions offered
mation only, and are not a substitute for personalized representation that is essential to every case. Latania Mena is an Immigration Attorney and a Caribbean National based in the Southwest Houston, Texas.
One Love Caribbean Call 281-769 2253
to the allegations. At the time of their respective marriages, Bello and Michael were natives and citizens of Nigeria and were in the U.S. temporarily on B1/B2 non-immigrant visas. If convicted on any of the counts as charged, each defendant faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine. Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rick Bennett and Mark Evans, Southern District of Texas, are prosecuting this case. The indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
APRIL 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
ISLAND STYLEE
ULTURE
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ISLAND RECIPES THE ART OF CARIBBEAN COOKING
Taste of St. Croix CRUZAN POTATOES STUFFING Ingredients 3 lbs potatoes; 6 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp butter; 1 medium onion, minced 1/2 stalk celery, minced 1/4 medium sweet pepper minced 1/4 tsp thyme; 1/2 cup tomato sauce 2 tsp parsley; Dash black pepper 3-4 tbsp brown sugar 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup raisins; 2 eggs
ROAST GOAT Ingredients 2-3 pound boneless leg roast 2-4 cloves garlic 1 tablespoon rosemary 1 tablespoon thyme 1 1/2 cups white wine peeled whole onions Direction Insert knife into roast to create small pockets for garlic slices. Add garlic to taste (2-4 cloves). Place roast and herbs in dish (or pot or bag). Add 1 ½ cups water or substitute white wine for the water. If desired, add peeled whole onions, small whole unpeeled potatoes, and chopped carrots. Roast at 325F for approximately 1 ½ to 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145F for medium rare, or 160F for medium.
Direction
Peel potatoes, boil in salt water, drain and mash. While potatoes are boiling, warm frying pan and add oil and butter. (Pan should not be too hot or butter with scorch). When oil is heated add minced onion, celery and sweet pepper. Cook over low flame until tender. Add thyme, tomato sauce, parsley, black pepper and sugar. Cook for about 3 minutes. Add this mixture to mashed potatoes and mix thoroughly. Add milk, raisins and eggs. The mixture should be a little more moist than mashed potatoes. If not sufficiently moist, add a little more milk and butter. Pour into a greased flat casserole dish, and bake at 325 degrees for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Top should be golden brown when done.
Roast Goat
Remove from oven, allow to rest, slice thin and serve with cooking juices spooned over the meat. Left over juices and meat make a wonderful soup or stew. COQUITO Ingredients 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk 1 (14-ounce) can condensed milk 1 (15-ounce) can coconut milk 2 egg yolks; Pinch salt 1 tsp cinnamon 1 cup Cruzan Rum
VI Thanksgiving Ham
ISLAND BAKED HAM
Ingredients 1 (5 to 7 lb) fully cooked ham Juice from two oranges; 1 tbsp whole cloves 1/3 cup packed brown sugar; 2 tbsp rum (optional) 1 tbsp honey; 1/2 tsp prepared mustard 8- pineapple slices (reserve juice) Direction Preheat oven to 325 degrees Place ham in a baking pan or casserole dish Cover the ham with pineapple slices. Press whole cloves through the pineapple slices into the ham to secure them in place.
Direction Place all ingredients in a blender and mix well. Store in a glass container, refrigerate and serve chilled. COCONUT SUGAR CAKE Ingredients 2 cups of sugar; ½ cup of water 1¼ cups of coconut; ½ tsp nutmeg ½ tsp cinnamon; 2 bay leaves, dried
Coconut Sugar Cake
Direction Mix together all the ingredients in pot. Cook slowly, stirring only occasionally to avoid sticking, until mixture form a soft ball when dropped in water that is room temperature. Remove from heat and beat a while. Drop by spoonful on cookie sheet that has been lined with waxed paper. Let cool to form sugar cakes.
Combine brown sugar, orange juice, rum (if desired), honey, prepared mustard and reserved pineapple juice; pour over entire ham. Cover tightly with aluminum, foil and bake 2 to 2 ¼ hours, basting halfway through and towards the end of the baking period. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, remove foil and allow to brow
Cassava Pone
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Page 15
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Currant Roll Cake Coconut Drop
The Lawyer of Frozen Crabs A Dominican lawyer boarded LIAT Airline in Piarco International Airport in Trinidad traveling to Antigua. He was traveling with a box of frozen crabs and asked a blonde hair flight attendant to take care of them for him. She took the box and promised to put it in the crew’s refrigerator. The lawyer advised her that he was holding her personally responsible for them staying frozen, mentioning in a very arrogant manner that he was a lawyer, and proceeded to rant at her about what would happen if she let them thaw out. Needless to say, she was annoyed by his behavior. Shortly before landing in Antigua, she used the intercom to announce to the entire cabin, “Would the lawyer who gave me the crabs, in Trinidad, please raise your hand. Not one hand went up.... So she took them home and ate them. Over the PA: Man Down A Grenadian man and his wife went shopping at their local Real Value Supermarket in Spiceland Mall, St Georges The husband picks up a small case of Guinness and puts it in their cart. “What do you think you’re doing? Man, how come you so fast,” asks the wife. ‘They’re on sale, only $10 for a dozen,” he replies. ‘Put dem back, we can’t afford dem,” demands the wife, and so they carry on shopping. A few aisles further on Aisle 25, his wife picked up a $20 jar of facial cream and puts it in the basket “Wah tis be? Wah you think you’re doing?” asks the husband. “It’s my face cream. It makes me look beautiful,” replies the wife. Her husband gave some backchat. “So does a dozen Guinness and it’s half the price.” Suddenly you heard over the PA system, “Man down on aisle 25.” A Smart Haitian Three Caribbean men were arguing about what kind of moon it was. The first man, a Dominican, said it was a full moon, the second man, a Lucian, was arguing that it was a half moon and the third man, a Vincy, was saying that it was a quarter moon. They could not agree, so they called in a fourth man, a Haitian, who was passing by and asked him what kind of moon it was. The Haitian took one look at the three men, then looked up at the sky and said: “Let me tell you this. You asked the wrong man. I just came into Houston after the earthquake. I am not from around here.”
AH WHA’ YU SEH? ‘XCUSE ME!? Patricia Boothe
ME NAH BEG NUH PAADEN FEH WHA ME NEH DUH -YUH A TELL LIE PON ME AN’ YUH KNOW IT WELL. SO, ME NAH BEG NO PAADEN FEH WHA ME NEH DUH ‘CAUSE A FEH YUH FAULT AN’ YUH KNOW DAT TUH. ME JUS’ A TAN UP YAH AN YUH BRUSH ‘GAINST ME, DEN YUH WAAN TELL EVERYBODY DAT A ME DID WRONG. ME JUS’ A TAN UP YAH AN YUH BREEZIN’ PASS, WATCH YAH GAL! NO MEK ME TELL YUH ‘BOUT YUH RASS. AH GWAN TELL YUH MUMMA DAT YUH TELL LIE PON ME, AH GWAN TELL HAR -AN’ SHE WI KNOW WHA FEH DUH. SHE MAY FIN’ SWITCH AN POP YUH RASS AN DEN YUH WI FIN’ OUT AH WHO YUH PASS. LIZA DID TELL MEH HOW YU LIE AN STAY, BUT ME NEH BELIEVE HAR WEN SHE TELL MEH DAT. LIZA DID TELL MEH DAT YUH DWEET ALL DEH TIME BUT ME NEH BELIEVE DAT A SO YUH PRIME. WELL -- MEK ME TELL YUH SINTING: ME NUH TEK LAAS LICK . . . ME NAH WAIT FEH YUH MADDA FEH TEK CARE A YUH! ME NAH BEG NO PAADEN FEH WHA ME NEH DUH! ME JUS’ A GO TAN RIGHT YAH AN WAIT FEH ME CUE. AH WILL NEVA BEG PAADEN FEH WHA AH NEH DUH! ‘XCUSE ME?!!
The Guyanese Joke To End All Guyanese Jokes!
There was a Guyanese woman who was having financial troubles so she decided to kidnap a child and demand a ransom. She went to a local park, grabbed a little boy, took him behind a tree and wrote this note. “I have kidnapped your child. Leave $10,000 in a plain brown bag behind the big oak tree in the park tomorrow at 7 AM.” She signed as ‘The Guyanese.’ She pinned the note inside the little boy’s jacket and told him to go straight home. The next morning, she returned to the park to find the $10,000 in a brown bag, behind the big oak tree, just as she had instructed. Inside the bag was the following note.... “Here is your money. I cannot believe that one Guyanese would do this to another!”
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