January 2014

ONE LOVE Free Publication

Volume 7 Issue 1

JANUARY 2014

ARIBBEAN

COMMUNITY • CULTURE • CONNECTIONS

COMMUNITY

Who is OLC Person of the Year?

Page 4

CARIBBEAN

Crisis in the Caribbean During the Christmas Season Page 6

CONNECTION

Successful People: The 8 SelfLimiting Behaviors They Avoid Page 12

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Page 2 • ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN • JANUARY 2014

The Publisher’s Thoughts

One Love CARIBBEAN P.O. Box 742291 Houston, TX 77274 281-769-2253

Website

www.olchouston.com

Sylvanus Donaie

Founder/Publisher Phone: 832-881-9745 sdonaie@olchouston.com

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“If I see further, it’s because I stand on need through a large voting bloc. Busithe shoulders of giants.” Isaac Newton nesses want to make huge profits; they require a large customer base. Churches If you failed to meet your 2013 want to meet their religious obligations; objective(s), don’t worry, be happy; they need a large congregation. there is good news. It is 2014, and you can always start over. When life In essence, as a group, you can make gets in the way, it’s very easy to disre- demands of your politicians and busigard your plans. So let me wish you a ness people. Moreover, as a group, your bright and successful 2014. demands are taken much more seriously and easily accepted because it shows a Now as you know, a new year is al- shared ideal within your community. ways the perfect time to reflect on the victories and failures of the previous Having said that, we, ourselves, have to year. But more importantly, it is also admit that there are things kicking us in the time to analyze and understand the the rear. reasons why you failed at something(s) as well as why you succeeded at oth- First, we have taken advantage of the ers. Knowing in some instances, you vast land space and its relative affordmay never know why some stuff failed able housing cost to live in the outlying while others flourished; some out- district of the city. This process, in and comes flow with the wind. of itself, have tremendously diluted our group power and our voting bloc. The I would like to start off the year 2014 next time you heard from those smart by doing some reflection. I want to Caribbean people, “We don’t have any reflect on the state of the Caribbean visibility,” just ask them, “Where do community in the Houston metropolis you live again?” today.

Second, around the city, we are known Let me begin! I’m often asked, how for having the best nighttime entertaindo we measure the Houston Carib- ment.. Yes, anything for a party! Howbean community’s growth as a small ever, for some reason, these skills have segment within the metro Houston not translated into dollars and “sense.” area. The answers can be confound- To our detriment, many business people ing. Some point to the lack of a build- see us as another party group and find it ing facility where the community, as a difficult to do business with us. whole, can conduct their affairs. Others are upset because of the nonexis- Third, our businesses need certification tence of a viable instrument to work classes on providing customer services. with Caribbean businesses. Yet still, Poor services have immensely diluted many point to the absence of represen- our customer base. tation within the halls of governments.

Last, because we are considered a fickle What I most often hear is the lack of audience, Caribbean and other businessvisibility; nobody knows that there is es cannot depend solely on us to turn a a huge Caribbean community in the profit. area. Few people know where to find us, and how to find us. This thinking Fear not, all is not lost. We are taking needs to change. Most people, who small but decisive steps. It was clearly interact and speak to you, know very shown when for the second time, the Jawell that you are from the Caribbean. maica Foundation of Houston brought (Oops! or, unless you have taken on a the sights and sounds of the Caribbean to different persona) Anyone who gives the City of Galveston at JAGA Reggae you this lyric is blowing smoke in your Festival. This is a significant achieveface. However, what I understand from ment for our people. such a statement, I think, is that they recognize us individually as people of We are at the cusp of a new beginning Caribbean origin. As individuals, we in this city, and Houston is poised over are a force that is large enough, which the next few years to grow tremendousmakes us impossible to ignore. But as ly. It is time that we step forward as a group, we suck. a group and took advantage of all the good things it has to offer now and in Here is what I have learned. The the future. wheels, that turn America, depend solely on large groups of people. Just The question before us for 2014 is how name it! Politicians have a need for can we weave ourselves into the fabric large numbers of votes. They meet this of this community, and not just sit on the

fringes of its growth? How can we become visible, increase our power base and get the things we want for ourselves, our families and our community? What is the point of living in one of the greatest cities in the United States and not enjoy all the fruits that it offers, economically and politically?

It is time that we come out of our comfort zones, stretch ourselves a bit, and realize this is home for now. It may be forever! As a result, we have to do what is necessary to be an integral part of this great city called Houston.

Dream! Dream big! And we can have a working Caribbean network of businesses, and maybe have our own Caribbean business plaza.

We can have our building facility to provide services to Caribbean people. And finally we will have Caribbean representation in halls of politics. Then and only then we will be seen as a visible force.

Happy New Year.

So until then, One Love.

So until then, One Love!

Sylvanus Donaie, BA, BSEE, MTM, MPM, MBA Publisher

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.

Page 4

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

JANUARY 2014

OLC 2013 Person the Year

By Sylvanus Donaie It is probably the most difficult task in selecting a person or persons who embodies what was important about 2013 in the Houston Caribbean Community.

In simple terms, the search seeks to identify a person or persons who have crossed over to work not only on behalf of their individual community, but for the advancement of the entire Diaspora as a body.

The selection is done knowing that some in our community may disagree, and that’s respected, while others welcome the choice.

As in past years, the decision to put forward an individual is always based on selected criterions. However, that part of the process is always overlooked.

Again, here are the yardsticks by which the selection is made: • Present a positive image of the Houston Caribbean Community

Caribbean Community Joined in Tributes to Late Pres. Nelson Mandela

• Represent the Caribbean Diaspora and its culture • Show tangible contribution to the uplifting of the Diaspora • Uplift and promote the cause of the Caribbean people in Texas Of course, our communities in Houston depend on the input of all. “One, one coco full basket” is a favorite Caribbean saying as it relates to our synergy.

In Houston, our nominee could not have done it on his own.

He did not start without a base to work from. There are many, who could be named, who have

muddied their hands and crafted a path in the struggle to give visibility to our community. He stands on the shoulders of giants.

The 2013 nominee was selected because of his contribution in the continuance in bringing greater awareness of the Houston Caribbean community, and his major role in building bridges with other groups, entities, organizations, and local state and national government officials on behalf of the Caribbean Diaspora.

Continue on Page 8

“If Walls Could Talk” Coming to Houston On February 22, 2014, the Jamaican play ‘If Walls Could Talk’ will make its debut at the Stafford Center in Stafford, Texas.

The Jamaican Gleaner reported ‘If Walls Could Talk’ is a must see for Caribbean goers.

The play is a dramatic comedy that takes the audience into the lives and marriage of The Bailey’s. Melvin and Jennifer Bailey are owners of a struggling hardware store and married for eleven years. They have tried so many times to have children but to no avail.

This is primarily because Jennifer suffers from a terminal condition known as uterine incompetence. What this does is to allow Jennifer to conceive but eventually she will have a miscarriage. Driven by guilt and her profound love for her husband whom she believes is ‘perfect’ and whom she failed at providing a family for, she decided to ask their loyal helper, Cindy to carry the child for her. This way she keeps it in house and without many people knowing. The thing is she granted her husband the permission to have a child with their helper based on the fact that she thought he

was the perfect husband. Lucky for him Walls do not talk, or do they? So in a highly dramatic, hilarious comedy a husband’s conscience rescues his marriage, but is it in time?

The play features Volier Johnson and Deon Silvera starring as Melvin and Jennifer Bailey.

Their idyllic life is interrupted when a flirty seductress Megan (Dainty Bellanfantie) shows up on the scene and uses her ownership in the company to remind Melvin that he better put out. Jennifer (Deon) hatches a plan to have their devoted housekeeper help her with a problem in her marriage. In the play actor Keith ‘Shebada’ Ramsey acts as the talking wall, but more so Mel’s guiltridden conscience.

The play is full of laughter and intrigue.

Actor Volier ‘Maffy’ Johnson (The husband) has appeared in plays such as Tantaloo, Trash, Room for Rent, Toy Boy, Breadfruit Kingdom and Strength of a Woman among many others.

He has also appeared on television in Oliver at Large, Lime Tree Lane. Actress Deon Silvera (The Wife) previously appeared in the hit play ‘Judgement’ in Houston in 2011.

By MD Jones The recent passing of former South African President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela drew simultaneous memorial tributes around the world on Saturday, December 10, 2013. Houston communities alone hosted some 4 tributes within the 6 days after Tata Madiba became an ancestor on December 5. These tributes included a 10:00AM salute by local international and African American communities in symbolic Emancipation Park in historic Third Ward.

This first of the 4 weekend memorial events was hosted by Friends of Emancipation Park, Houston Sun newspaper, and Caribbean Impact Network and featured multiple generations of artists, elders, and guests from Angola, The Bahamas, Congo, Haiti, Jamaica, Nigeria, Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos, and the USA in solidarity with the local South African communities.

Due to the extremely windy weather, most in attendance remained in their cars, and the elders were eventually moved inside, so the respect for Mr. Mandela was clear and very heart warming. The second event was held at the Shrine of the Black Madonna at 2:00PM and the third event was hosted

at the GR Brown Convention Center by the City of Houston and Interfaith Ministries. The series ended with a church service on Sunday afternoon hosted by South Africans.

These may very well have been the most fully Pan African and multicultural events in the history of Houston that were not held for entertainment purposes only. Public and corporate officials and faith community leaders made statements in praise of Mr. Mandela, artists performed, choirs sang, South African artists performed cultural tributes, and elders such as Rev. Dr. Virgil Wood, a former SCLC officer, and Ovide Duncantel of the Black Heritage Society recounted how global activism and solidarity brought an end to apartheid in South Africa.

It was duly noted that both faith and action were required to bring down such an atrocious institution, both boycotting businesses, divesting, and lobbying the United Nations, all efforts in concert. Of course, much credit was given to popular entertainers and African American members of Congress of that time such as Ron Dellums [DCA] and Mickey Leland [D-TX] for the pressure they brough to bear on the US government and resident embassies.

Pictured in Emancipation Park with Jamaica Foundation officers Cedric Buchanan and Arnold Richards, Civil Rights Movement icon Dr. Virgil Wood, Professor M. Douglas-Jones of Caribbean Impact, and Daniel Gonzalez of Puerto Rico.

JANUARY 2014

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

Baytown to Conduct Second Annual Citizen Survey Beginning this week, 1,200 randomly selected Baytown households will have an opportunity to complete the City of Baytown’s second annual citizen survey, to provide feedback to City leaders on their satisfaction with various city services and what issues should receive the highest priority over the next two years. The DirectionFinder citizen survey will be conducted

by ETC Institute, a professional survey organization that administers citizen surveys to cities throughout the country.

Residents who receive the survey by mail can use return mail for the completed form, respond by phone or complete the survey online. Once the necessary number of surveys has been completed and the sample is statistically representative of the City’s population with regard to the demographic and geographic composition of the sample,

the survey will conclude.

The survey should only take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. “This is an opportunity for the residents of Baytown to let their voices be heard,” said Nick Woolery, Assistant to the City Manager. “We value what our resident’s desire for their community and ask that they help us shape Baytown’s future by completing our brief survey. We take the results seriously. We want to improve and it shows.”

Since last year’s survey results, the City has taken major strides in the areas identified by residents in the 2013 survey. Public Safety has been improved with the addition of six new Police officers and the near completion of Fire Station #7 north of I-10 near Garth Road. Traffic improvements are an ongoing initiative.

An extension of Baker Road to the east, called Blue Heron

Parkway, will open in early 2014, improvements to intersections, including Garth and Archer, continue throughout the city, a traffic management plan is being developed for SH146 in Chambers County, and the City received a grant for a project to synchronize the traffic signals along Garth Road to I-10 and along SH146 in Chambers County, improving traffic flow and safety.

Quality of life was boosted with sidewalk repairs citywide, new sidewalks along Rollingbrook and Baker, a new walking trail and landscaping along Emmett Hutto, and the completion of a gateway monument entering Baytown from Houston on I-10. The City also worked to improve its communication with the public by sending out its first direct-mail newsletter (The Bridge) and beginning to stream City Council Meetings live on the City’s website.

Grenada Houston Association

Provides Scholarships to Students in the Homeland ST. GEORGE’S, GRENADA, December 19, 2013: The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development in collaboration with the Grenada Houston Association (GHA) honored five students with scholarships at an award ceremony held in the Ministry of Education Conference Room on December 12, 2013.

This is the third year that the GHA has reached out to Grenadian students, offering an opportunity for one child from each of Grenada’s 6 parishes and one child from Carriacou and Petite Martinique to receive financial assistance for academic expenses.

Dr. J Jonathan Lewis, President of the GHA, was pleased to be able to give back to his home country but encouraged all in attendance to spread knowledge of the Association so that more students can take advantage of the scholarships available.

“Unfortunately, of the 7 scholarships that we had earmarked for Grenada this year we were only able to award 5 because we didn’t have representation from two of the parishes; St. Mark’s and St. John’s,” Dr. Lewis said. “St. John’s has, however, gotten an award for school supplies for the R.C. School in Gouyave.”

Minister for Education and Human Resource Development, Honourable Anthony Boat-

Page 5

THE NATION FBI Warns Against Counterfeit Cosmetics and Fragrances

Arsenic in your lipstick? Carcinogens in your perfume? Real possibilities, if you buy counterfeit cosmetics and fragrances, warns the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. government agency that has investigative jurisdiction over violations of more than 200 categories of federal crime.

In a January 2 news release, the FBI reported a sharp increase in the sales of dangerous beauty products, thanks in part to the Internet, which allows anyone, anywhere widespread access to potential customers. In early December, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced it had teamed with 10 foreign law enforcement agencies to seize hundreds of websites that were selling counterfeit merchandise to unsuspecting consumers.

“The 706 [websites] seized were set up to dupe consumers into unknowingly buying counterfeit goods as part of the holiday shopping season,” the ICE news release said.

The FBI says criminals increasingly view dealing in counterfeit personal care products — as well as other knock-off consumer goods — as a relatively low-risk crime.

“There is no typical profile of the individuals or groups trafficking in these kinds of counterfeit products,” the FBI news release says,“ and this might just be one of their many illegal activities — oftentimes, the illicit proceeds are used to fund other types of crime. We’ve also seen people selling counterfeit products through online auction sites and other websites just to make a little extra cash. … Some may not even realize their merchandise is fake.”

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swain, commended the Grenada Houston Association for their initiative that helps, not only the students, but the government on a whole.

“Whenever I hear about any organization making contributions I feel extremely pleased because I see it as, indirectly, a contribution being made to the government. If your organization was not involved in this scholarship programme it means that government had to come forward because there are some services that we cannot deny our students,” Minister Boatswain said.

“Our philosophy is that no child should be denied an education on the basis of financial and economic needs, but when you are constrained by the lack of resources you have to ask yourself where do you turn?

What options do you have?

And therefore we welcome with open arms and with great joy the contribution being made by

[the Grenada Houston Association] to help our students by providing these scholarships.”

Funds for the scholarship are raised at the Grenada Houston Association’s Annual FundRaising Gala that will be held in February of next year; coinciding with Grenada’s 40thAnniversary as an independent nation.

The five students awarded received cheques in the sum of USD$500.00 each. Organizers hope that this amount will be increased in the coming years.

To date, 21 Grenadian students, in secondary and tertiary level schools, have received financial assistance from the Grenada Houston Association.

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International students connect the United States with the world. We want international students to be successful in their fields of study and to gain a rich understanding of America. Learning the intricacies of written English increases students’ chances of success in science, business, technology and much of higher education — global fields where English has become dominant.

Beginning last fall, the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs partnered with the University of California at Berkeley to launch College Writing 2x: Principles of Written English, a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) hosted on the edX platform to help English language learners improve their writing skills.

Berkeley’s Maggie Sokolik teaches the course. She’s an expert in teaching English to an international audience from her time as an English Language Specialist sponsored by the State Department.

Participants in this MOOC learn key critical thinking skills, as well as grammar, how to control a sentence, and how to

proofread — empowering them with the educational tools for success in the classroom and beyond. In addition to offering new skills, MOOCs offer students an unparalleled opportunity to “test drive” the U.S. education system and prepare for studying in the United States.

The feedback from students so far has been excellent.

We just wrapped up the first five-week module. If you missed the first module, don’t worry. The second five-week module of the course begins on January 16, and you can take it even if you did not take the first module. Want to participate in a facilitated discussion? Get in touch with the Public Affairs Section of the nearest U.S. Embassy. We hope you will join us!

Go to www.edx.org and sign up.

Page 6

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

JANUARY 2014

ARIBBEAN Briefs Crisis in the Caribbean During the Christmas Season OLC: January 4, 2014: Last month, a slow-moving, lowlevel trough dumped heavy rain on St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Martinique, and Dominica from December 23 through December 25, 2013, Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) stated. The trough system resulted in 6.74 inch of rainfall within a 24-hour period.

Trinidad’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar has requested that the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) mobilize food and emergency supplies to be sent to Saint Lucia. The Guyanese government approved financial support of 100,000 dollars each for Saint Lucia and St. Vincent and 75,000 to Dominica.

The Government of St Kitts and Nevis donated EC$1.0 million dollars to Saint Lucia to assist us with our recovery efforts.

The Government of Barbados has offered water and other assistance.

Barbados is making available a Coast Guard vessel to assist in transporting emergency supplies to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Lucia.

The Barbados Coast Guard Vessel “Trident” is capable of transporting over four (4) tons of cargo at one time.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves had to return home to manage the disaster, cutting short his holiday in London.

Gonsalves said that there are two hundred and twentytwo persons in seven shelters across the country. The Government will be transferring one hundred thousand dollars to the Housing and Land Development Company to carry out repair work on the buildings that will be used as shelters.

Eight persons are confirmed dead as a result of landslides and flooding. The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines would be bearing the cost of the funeral for the persons who lost their lives as a result of the severe flooding which occurred on 24th December 2013.

Dominica According to The Dominican. net, residents woke up on the Christmas Eve to witness scenes that many described as having not been seen over several decades. An overnight weather system dumped heavy rains on the island resulting in massive flooding and triggering landslides in several parts of the island.

The news medium reported

that in Loubiere and Pointe Mitchel, ravines swelled and crested over their banks flooding several homes and streets and bringing a halt to vehicular traffic in those areas. In other areas on the island, electricity and water services were interrupted.

The government authorities said that all residents were accounted for and there were no injuries.

Saint Lucia In St. Lucia, five people were killed, including Calvin Stanley Louis, a police officer who died after a wall fell on him as he tried to assist people who had become stranded by the floods.

In the aftermath of the trough, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Dr. Kenny D Anthony, addressed his people reporting that his government met all of our objectives in this short term.

ticular, from the north to the south as quickly as possible.

We were able to do so within thirty six hours.

• Restore water and electricity supplies as quickly as possible; • Restore vehicular traffic around the island and in par-

The British Government has pledged half a million dollars in immediate support to St Lucia to assist in recovery efforts.

• Secure the re-opening of our airports to ensure the movement of passengers to and from Saint Lucia; • Calm our source tourism markets, eliminate fears and anxieties and reassure those who

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Flooding in Dominica

The EU Gives Emergency Aid After Christmas Floods Bridgetown, 7 January 2014 – In response to serious damage caused by a Low Level Trough System in the Eastern Caribbean region, the European Commission’s Department of Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection (ECHO) has released more than €300,000 to bring immediate relief to the population most affected by floods.

“Damage in the Eastern Caribbean has been very significant, mainly because the Low Level Trough System unexpectedly occurred outside the Atlantic Hurricane Season. The European Commission wants to help the emergency relief effort with this immediate allocation of aid,” said Jocelyn Lance, Head of the ECHO Caribbean Office.

As a major contributor to

the Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) of the IFRC, the European Commission has agreed to use €104,834 ($172,410US) of its DREF contribution to help bring relief to the victims.

The aid will be channeled through the Red Cross National Societies of Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which operate with funding from the DREF ($92186US and $80,223US respectively). Assistance includes distribution of food, relief items, access to water and sanitation, and hygiene promotion to minimize the risk of diseases. In addition, $328,920US has been granted to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to restore health services and reduce the impact of the disaster on public health.

The European Commission’s disaster prepared-

ness program (DIPECHO) is currently funding four projects in the affected region, specifically in St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada and Dominica.

“Despite the damage registered, disaster preparedness actions once again proved relevant and lifesaving.,” Lance said. “This is why ECHO will continue to support these initiatives in the Caribbean,” he added. Current DIPECHO projects, lasting until December 2014, will keep working to strengthen the most vulnerable communities’ capacities to anticipate, withstand and recover from natural hazards.

The funds will also be used to establish and upgrade early warning systems and reinforce health centers’ preparedness.

JANUARY 2014

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

Former Premier of Turks and Caicos Islands Extradited from Brazil Court in Grand Turk. Misick’s bail application was initially rejected by the Magistrate, before being accepted on appeal by the Turks and Caicos Supreme Court later. As he was unable to meet the bail conditions, he has been remanded in custody in Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk. If he mets the bail conditions before January 13, 2014, he could be released.

OLC: The Office of the Premier confirmed that Former Premier, Michael Eugene Misick arrived in the Turks and Caicos Islands on January 7, 2013., following extradition from Brazil as

requested by the UK Government. He is charged with conspiracy to bribe.

Upon arrival, he immediately appeared at the Magistrate’s

The Premier was met by an overwhelming amount of supporters, on-lookers and well-wishers as he entered the Magistrate Court following his arrival.

Con’t on Page 12

Jamaica Launches Massive Infrastructure Overhaul

third week of December. Another $51 million is to be spent in some parishes on bushing and drain cleaning…and continue through to the end of the year,” she told Jamaicans.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller (5th left), cuts the ribbon to officially open the Kintyre Bridge

Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller, announced that the Government has initiated a $500 million infrastructure program to rehabilitate roads across the island.

Speaking in Kintyre, East Rural St. Andrew, on December 4,2013, where she officially opened a bridge, the Prime Minister said the road improvement project is geared at improving the quality of life for many people.

Mrs. Simpson Miller pointed out that $200 million of the sum will be spent to patch and repair roads. “This work will commence immediately, and is projected to be spent in tranches up to the end of the financial year in March 2014,” the Prime Minister noted.

“Another $130 million will be spent on mitigation work and bushing, and again, this work is to commence immediately, and continue through to the

“I have instructed that another $50 million be spent specifically on replacing manholes and guard rails,” she said, noting that the physically challenged and other vulnerable persons must be protected on the roadways.

The Kintyre Bridge, which was constructed at a cost of $100 million, is a central route for persons in the communities of Clarke Street, St. Joseph Road, Bedward Pastures, Cosmo Mews, and other areas.

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‘Guns for Bibles’ Initiative In an attempt to reduce the crime rate in Dominican Republic, evangelical churches throughout the country’s capital partnered with local authorities recently to exchange gang members’ illegal weapons for Bibles.

Over 1,300 guns, knives and machetes were recovered during the month-long initiative that prompted church leaders to go into the city’s most corrupt and violent neighborhoods.

Braulio Porte, a pastor from the National Council of Christianization, congratulated all the young people, “and everyone

Crime

who turned in their weapons, that was an act of goodwill.”

Esther Cristiana Estrella, from the Nueva Vida Mirador Sur, said the crime prevention plan was going to become a nationwide effort and noted that while they visited neighborhoods, many confessed they were plotting violent crimes.

Trinidad and Tobago

fighting resources intensified

A river training exercise will also be a part of the program, where some $70 million will be spent, and includes drain rehabilitation. That segment of the work will take place over the next 12 weeks.

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January 8, 2014: “Completely intolerable”- those were the words used by Prime Minister Kamla Persad- Bissessar to describe the recent spike in violence and murders. She was speaking at a press conference following an emergency meeting held with the National Security Council to outline new crime measures.

The murder toll as at January 7, 2014 stands at 19 and PersadBissessar says all crime fighting resources have been intensified in the fight against crime.

At the press conference, the Prime Minister gave her assurances to make Trinidad and Tobago a safe nation once again.

She said “I have made it clear to each member of the NSC that they would be held personally accountable for any further failure to keep the peace and protect our citizens. And so once in charge, the respective arms of the protective and security services, they must perform.

No shades of grey, no excuses, no apologies. The Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago are demanding results now; therefore they must see results now.”

The move comes on the heels of launching the new Rapid Response Unit (RRU) which took

place mere hours prior to the holding the meeting.

Persad Bissessar, who is the Chairman of the NSC, says one critical move will include recalling all police officers into active duty. “I have instructed all Heads to operate at full capacity and operate based not on excuses for why something cannot be done, but with a clear plan of how all possible measures will be taken to secure the lives of our citizens.”

She vowed to remain in close contact with the Council and the relevant National Security authorities as these measures are rolled out. “Having given these mandates and effectively removed any room for excuses, I myself will be very closely monitoring and actively following the progress made by each arm of the protective and security services.”

The Prime Minister added that these moves were necessary if citizens are to feel safe and secure within their own nation. Officers have received specific orders to monitor domestic violence issues with increased attention.

Plans outlined are said to include dialogue with citizens on initiatives they would like Government to implement to address crime.

Page 8

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

Person of the Year After careful consideration and with input from our community, it is with great pleasure that One Love Caribbean selects Jerry Castro-Cayetano as “Person of the Year.”

In 2009, One Love Caribbean ran a story written by Terry Layne, our long standing staff writer, on the plight of the Garifuna People in Central America. Weeks later, I received a call, and later met with Jerry.

He was working to organize the Garifuna people in Houston. At that time, it was unknown that there were hundreds of Garifunas living in 5th Ward of Houston.

The Garifunas people are direct descendants of Caribs and Africans from the island of St. Vincent who were exiled by the British colonial administration. They found refuge along the Caribbean Coast in Belize, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Honduras.

As part of his work, Jerry Castro (as he popularly known) organized events to bring visibility to his community, and for the first time in the United States, the Garifuna people were given formal recognition. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee issued a Congressional proclamation acknowledging the 200 plus years of Garifuna cultural preservation since their exile from St. Vincent.

In March of 2013, The State of Texas honored Paramount Chief by proclaiming March 14 as “Chief Joseph Chatoyer Hero Day” in Texas. A petition put forth by Jerry and which received support from the Texas House of Representatives led

by Texas House Member, Dr. Alma Allen, and State Senator Rodney Ellis.

“This effort not only showcases the depth of diversity in the state, but will allow fellow Texans to learn about the different communities,” said CastroCayetano.

Jerry continued lobbying local city, state and federal officials for official recognition of June as Caribbean Heritage Month

in the state of Texas. He not only wanted to give visibility to his Garifuna community, but to the Houston Caribbean as a whole.

His work continued establishing relationships among key minority groups in the greater Houston community including the Hispanic and African community. But it was at the height of the 2013 Immigration reform, he gave a voice to the thousands of undocumented Caribbean people in America, in meetings with members of Texas Congressional delegation Representative Al Green and Sheila Jackson-. Lee. When Representative Luis Gutierrez visited Houston in the spring of 2013, Jerry gave a voice for the Caribbean-American and immigrant community.

But that’s not all. He led collaborative efforts to establish an important relationship with Houston’s PlazAmericas Shopping center and organized “Kids Day at The Mall” in honor of Caribbean-American Heritage Month and families in Southwest Houston.

The event attendees included US Congressman Al Green, Houston City Councilman Mike Laster, Texas State Senator Rodney Ellis and participating Raices de Panama Folkloric Dance Company, St. Kitts, Soca Passion, Bronco Cash, Houston Caribbean Festival, DJ Danny Boy, DJ Natural Touch, St. Kitts and Nevis Association of Houston, DJ Silent Killa, Houston Madd Colors, Slimme Photography, Houston Young Magazine, Telemundo Houston, KHOU Channel 11,

Univision Channel 45, Houston Chronicle and One Love Caribbean newspaper.

His list of collaborative efforts for 2013 is a long. This include partnering with of Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) to secure Caribbean news outlets representation in covering the “El Salvador vs Haiti” and “Honduras vs Trinidad & Tobago” matches in Houston’s BBVA Compass Stadium during GOLD CUP 2013.

JANUARY 2014

CARIBBEAN ACHIEVEMENTS AWARDS Houston TX December 20th, 2013: Members of Houston’s growing Caribbean-American and immigrant community will hold their First Annual Houston Caribbean Achievements Awards (HCAA) and Miss/Mr. Caribbean-Houston pageant on January 25. The awards ceremony is designed to showcase and promote and recognize Houston’s diverse community in business, leadership and entertainment.

“Over the years our population has been steadily growing,” agrees the event organizer Dane McAlpin, “and with that growth the community has not only achieved many accomplishments, but the local talents have created a national and international buzz.”

“The awards will not only illustrate what’s established but encourage a new generation of figures to contribute their driven passion to promote and preserve Caribbean Heritage and Culture not only in Houston but throughout the state of Texas,” he continued

The 2010 US Census listed Caribbean foreign born as the 3rd largest in the country at 17% behind the Hispanic and Asian population. The city of Houston and surrounding metro and urban areas has an estimated of 300,000 Caribbean-Americans and immigrants.

During the local celebration of Caribbean-American Heritage Month, Houston’s Mayor Anise D. Parker praised the community’s presence and contributions to the city’s economy and diversity. “Houston is enriched by the presence and contributions of its residents of Caribbean ancestry,” said the Mayor in June, “and is proud to be the recipient of their significant contributions to the cultural, civic and economic and spiritual life of our city.”

As a community with a growing potential to speak numbers in the Houston community, the HOUSTON CARIBBEAN ACHIEVEMENTS would like to encourage everyone to come out on Saturday January 25th and be a part of this great evening.

Jerry hosted a CaribbeanAmerican Business Forum with the participation of the South Central office of the Small Business Administration, Houston Score, and Houston Councilman Larry Green at Cool Runnings Jamaican Grill in July 2013. Later last year, he brought US Congressman Al Green Office and City of Houston Office of International Communities at the same venue to speak on community legislation processes.

As you can see we can go on and on, but his accomplishments speaks for itself. Naming him the 2013 Person of the Year seeks to recognize his hard work on our behalf.

On behalf of our community and One Love Caribbean newspaper we thank Jerry CastroCayetano for his contribution to the advancement of our people and congratulate him on this momentous occasion.

Happy 2014

Caribbean Leader: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamal PersadBissessar holds the attention of former CARICOM Chair and President of Haiti, Michel Martelly during their flight to Johannesburg, South Africa on board Caribbean Airlines

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JANUARY 2014

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

PHOTOS

2013 in Review

A at JAG cutives ston e x E H F e in Galv e with J Tessann Festival 2013 Reggae

L-R: Texas V. Rickett, C Multic ultura . Listenbee, l Wom a en -- F nd C. Baile ebruar y y 19, 2013

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CARIBBEAN

LIEE LIFE Tessanne Chin Jamaican singing sensation

Jamaica (and entire Caribbean) is proud to congratulate Tessanne Chin on her winning of Season 5 of “The Voice” on NBC. She made history as the first non-American to win the US-based talent contest. But, it was quite a long road to travel from the Blind Auditions to the Finale, she prevailed.

Tessanne is no stranger to Houston. Late year, she was a featured reggae artist at the JAGA Reggae Festival in Galveston.

Returning home, the Jamaican singing sensation paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Portia Simpson on Monday, December 23, 2013.

“By being ‘The Voice’ you have joined the ranks of a long list of outstanding Jamaican achievers who have held the flag high internationally and confirm to the world that we are a nation of world beaters on the world class stage,” said the Prime Minister.

Representatives from Caribbean Associations at Grenada Association celebration of the 39th Anniversary of Grenada’s Independence February 9, 2013

President of Music Spirit, Norman McDavid met Sylvanus Donaie of OLC – Jan 2013

Tessanne and her homie at the JAGA Reggae Festival 2013 in Galveston

Another Step omino uri City D , 2013. o s is M n Housto October 5 banquet rd a w a b Clu

Cynthia Gaston and Marilyn Gaston, representative of the island of St. Lucia with Mayor Annise Parker at 17th Annual Texas Lunar Festival -- February 16, 2013

Attendees at Tropical Explosion Boat Ride waiting to Colonel Paddlewheel Boat for a four-hour cruise in the waters surrounding Moody Gardens in Galveston

Cuba’s President Raúl Castro introduced himself to Barack Obama in English at Nelson Mandela’s funeral, telling him, “Mr President, I’m Castro,” as the two leaders shook hands.

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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

ONNECTIONS

The American Majority: Tough Times Ahead

Terry Layne Staff Writer tlayne@olchouston.com In a recent apostolic exhortation, we learned about Pope Francis’ appeal to world politicians for guarantees of meaningful work and livable wages, relevant education, and equitable healthcare for their citizens. The Pontiff also prayed earnestly for the rising of conscientious politicians, who will boldly address concerns of the poor, along with the imbalances of inequality between those who have much and those who don’t.

And in many ways, I see this papal intercession as a voice in behalf of the American majority, if not for the majority of people living on earth today. If these meditations would be answered with divine affirmation for 2014, I believe we would experience all that joy and peace that we customarily wish for each other around this time of year and at the beginning of each new calendar year. But all things left up to the politicians, I can see some tough times ahead for a majority of the American population, based on Don Peck’s published report in the Atlantic some two years ago.

By this time in our days, many of us have seen the transformation or learned about the gradual changes in the United States of America from its post World War II glory days of the 1950’s to the financial collapse and Great Recession of 2008. During this period of time and more recently, production industries have been declining, and companies have been steadily disappearing. U.S. jobs have been gradually withering away to less costly overseas locations. The big picture of what has been happening is America was transforming over time from an industrial and manufacturing economy into one of services and information.

As a consequence of this grad-

ual but substantial shift in our economy, America saw a declining homeland need for workers with only moderate cognitive or manual skills, according to the report. These were the workers who performed routine type jobs, like assembly productions, process monitoring, record keeping, simple coding, or basic data management. Functions of this sort were taken over by machines and lower paid off shore workers. At the same time and while non-professional jobs were being lost, more people were enrolling in colleges for higher education and skills development, particularly women. On the other hand, men, who were mostly affected by job losses during the Great Recession, did not seek higher learning and skills training at the rate and level of their women counterparts.

Clearly this gender gap in college training had been progressively widening even prior to the recession, but it was surely accentuated with the crisis event. While very few sophisticated thinkers today believe, if any, that a college education offers a guarantee protection from the broad and deep type of job losses and unemployment experienced as a result of the financial collapse; the educational gap between genders in America could hardly be any more disruptive to our social system, as we understood it.

But that’s a whole other focus.

Simply enough, however, it may be sufficient to point out that the difficulties seen by men during these troubled times has exaggerated many of the problems facing our country today.

Clearly, a shrinking “middle class,” or a smaller buffer zone between the wealthy and the poor in America can be translated to fewer opportunities for a hard working class to “expand” upward. On this premise alone, we might find it helpful to place our mental focus and functional energies, as we continue our struggles with personal or collective viability. Obviously, working our way back successfully from the financial collapse and the widening economic divide between rich and poor cannot be easily navigated. There is no single prescription or pathway for everyone to follow. But one thing is more certain than most others…we can hardly do the journey alone. Most, if not all of our significant leaders from the Caribbean region have been saying it throughout history… our

best shot comes from re-learning how to work collaboratively with others. The question for us is; do we trust those lessons taught by our historical leaders, of whom we are all proud?

Leaders at any level might serve more effectively by developing visionary strategies toward our “services and information” economy. It seems apparent that the super rich and powerful people will not or cannot create all the jobs and opportunities needed to keep an oversized “working class” employed. Just on face value alone, we can see that the “middle class” and lower income groups are inversely related. As the former constricts, the latter expands. There are obvious market limits to those positions requiring moderate cognitive or manual skills. Community leaders and other advocates may have the responsibility that comes with their territory to help create, develop, or support the boldness of creating one’s own employment, even at the lower income end. And that’s with or without college degrees.

Now I’m not talking about “easy.”

But I am talking more about “guided thinking.” Most of us may already know about places in the world where the boldness of self reliance is “a rule of thumb.” And in our current reality, I believe it’s important to stress the point that self reliance does not negate collaborative relationships. So there is a whole lot of discussion necessary around these topics of self reliance and collaborative relationships, at least, from my perspective.

It seems evident that one of the tougher hurdles to clear in our reality is the one which addresses those bread and butter needs of the poor or lower income groups.

To understand all of this, we can simply pay attention to the political noise made around issues relevant to our constricting “middle class.” We even run election campaigns around these issues. On the other hand, look at what happens when the single voice of Pope Francis of Rome is raised in advocacy of the poor or lower income groups. Some are already calling for his excommunication from the church, as he brings the plight of poor and working class people into his public conversations. The voices are loud that speak and the hands are strong which work in representing the wealthy up Continue on Page 12

JANUARY 2014

IMMIGRATION NEWS ATTORNEY MENA SPEAKS ON DEPORTATION

What Do You Know About the Process?

By Latania Mena Attorney at Law Very few Caribbean nationals living here in the U.S. can attest to never experiencing, even slightly, the unpleasantries of deportation. Most of us either know of or have heard of a loved one who has been deported or who currently faces the “deportee” dilemma. But what do you really know about deportation: do you know who gets deported, what triggers deportation, your rights and options in the event of removal proceedings and what happens in immigration court? As an immigrant, it is imperative that you understand the circumstances that may lead to your deportation and the options available to you in the event you are being deported. This is the first of a three part series on deportation to get you “in the know”.

WHO CAN BE DEPORTED?

The short answer is that any person who is not a U.S. citizen can be deported from the U.S. Certain immigrants are more at risk: Those with past convictions, including green card holders.

This risk group also includes: asylees, refugees, people with temporary protected status, people on tourist, business, student visas and people who applied to have their status adjusted in the U.S. Many persons believe however, that these convictions must be for crimes considered to be felonies. In reality, the types of convictions that can lead to deportation are very broad, and even include offenses that a criminal judge considered minor enough to warrant no jail time.

Photo Courtesy of ICE

Attorney Latania Mena Undocumented immigrants are also deportable, whether or not they have convictions. Many folks believe this is a term used to describe people who have “crawled under the fence”. Anyone who has entered without inspection is “undocumented” and deportable. This includes persons who came to the US using false documents, people who have overstayed their visas, and those with old deportation orders. Some people may have deportation orders even if they are not aware of this. For instance if a green card or citizenship application was denied and that person did not receive notice that a deportation case was started against them.

Status Violators: many persons unknowingly violate the terms of their visas. For instance, many student visa holders do not realize that one incidence of unauthorized employment, or not enrolling for sufficient classes can place them out of status and immediately at risk for deportation.

Bear in mind that almost half of the immigrants held in detention have no criminal record at

Continue on Page 14.

JANUARY 2014

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

AN INSPIRATIONAL MOMENT Encouragement from the Word of God

Page 11

BIRTHDAYS IN THE DIASPORA

Using The Right Standard

tary, the leaders set the goals and plans of action and every soldier is required to live by them. If every soldier decided for himself what was right and how to operate, the result would be chaos, confusion or even catastrophe.

Charmaine Bailey Staff Writer cbailey@olchouston.com I was very careful to dismiss the class on time. I checked my watch regularly and made sure we ended with time to spare.

I had sufficient time to take care of a few chores before going to the church service. However, when I got there, the service had already begun and I had missed most of the worship time. How could that be? I then checked the clock on the wall and realized that my watch was twenty minutes behind, therefore, in spite of my diligent efforts, I was late. I used my watch as the standard, but it was not in accordance with Central Standard Time, so I was way off track. It also meant that since I was the timekeeper, all those who were depending on the accuracy of my watch, were also late.

Many times we create our own standards to live by; they may be norms based on tradition, the way we were raised, friends, television, society our simply our own ideas. Just the same as it is important to use the prototype or first model of a product and not the copy as the standard, it is likewise vital to be in alignment with the original plan or guidelines for living, in order not to miss the mark. In the mili-

God laid down principles and plans for mankind and they never shift. They do not get off track, do not speed up or slow down, and are not influenced by cultures, opinions or desires of humanity. This model was devised by a loving, caring and all-knowing Father who understands what is best for the people He created – what will harm them and what’s best for them; a Father who knows their spirit, soul and body and gives them the strategies that will produce the best results. Therefore, as we embrace this new year, let’s adjust the clock…. move it from the “me” standard to God’s standard, i.e. from the values of self, society and situations, to the principles of the living and loving Lord.

When one operates by his own rules or creates his own standards, that person has become his or her own god. When one decides to live by the principles (not rules) of God the Creator, there is peace, order, positive direction, for individuals, couples, families, governments, nations and the world. God is not indecisive, unstable or confused. He does not vary with the seasons or adjust Himself to suit personalities, celebrities or governments.

He wants to be your Lord today. Won’t you give the New Year a positive start by receiving Him today and start living by His standards, according to the plans that He has for you? Jeremiah 29:11 “ For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

PRAYER: “Come to my heart Lord Jesus”, I invite you to be the Ruler and Director of my life, starting today.”

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.

Virgina St. Hilaire Dominica

Tobias Mitchell Saint Lucia

Cherryann Donigan Trinidad and Tobago

Asia Reid Frederick Saint Lucia

Dzifa Job Trinidad & Tobado

Angela Browne Jamaica

Amanda Head Jamaica

Sonia Erskine Antigua

Stephenie Alexander Haiti

Karen Layne Panama

Michelle Brookes-Worrell St. Kitts/Barbados

Uncle L Trinidad

Email your birthday to birthday@onelovehouston.com

Houston Caribbean Events January 19, 2014

February 22, 2014

Stafford Civic Center 1415 Constitution Ave Stafford, TX 77477 Two Shows: 4:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Stafford Civic Center 1415 Constitution Ave Stafford, TX 77477

Big Dreamer By Wilbert J. Oliver Jamaican play ‘If Walls Could Talk’

Saturday, January 25 - 26, 2014 HOUSTON CARIBBEAN ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Stafford Civic Center 1415 Constitution Ave Stafford, TX 77477 Feb 22 - 5K Walk benefitting Medical Mission to Jamaica - Texas Multicultural Women

March 22 - Annual Prayer Breakfast Texas Multicultural Women, Inc April 12 - 13, 2014 JAGA Reggae Festival Beach Centrak Park 2100 Seawall Boulevard, Galvestion TX April 26 - May 8 TMW Medical Mission - Jamaica

One Love Caribbean

January 1: Terry and Marva Layne celebrate their 49th wedding anniversary. Happy Anniversary.

Page 12

ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN

OPEN EDITORIAL Successful People

The 8 Self-Limiting Behaviors They Avoid

By Kathy Caprino, Contributor Forbes In my work, I’ve been fortunate to learn from amazingly successful, impactful professionals and entrepreneurs. I’m defining “success” here as achieving what matters most to you, individually and authentically – not as some objective measure of outer wealth, accomplishment or achievement.

Observing people in action who are living fully on their terms and absolutely loving it, I’ve seen how they think, react, interrelate, problem solve, and lead. I’ve applied these lessons to my own life, and to those I coach.

them momentarily of their situational pain but have no basis in reality. For instance, I’ve heard from corporate professionals who share, “Kathy, I really hate my job and desperately want to leave. I’ve been wanting to write a book and become a motivational speaker for several years now. What’s your advice?” I’ll respond, “OK, great.

Are you writing and speaking?” and more often than not, the answer will be, “Uh…no.” You can’t write a book if you’re not writing anything, and you can’t speak in public if you haven’t developed any material to speak about.

I’ve noted that people who love what they do for a living and have created tremendous success and reward, not only engage continuously in lifesupporting behaviors, but also avoid certain negative actions and mindsets that other, less successful people habitually get lost in.

It’s critical to take bold action toward your visions, in order to create success. Successful people develop huge goals too, but they crush them down into smaller, digestible (but courageous) action steps that they then build on, which leads naturally to the end goal they’re pursuing.

The 8 self-limiting, negative behaviors successful people avoid are:

REMAINING POWERLESS AND SPEECHLESS Successful people are in touch with their power, and are not afraid to use it and express it.

They advocate and negotiate strongly for themselves and for others, and for what they care about, and don’t shy away from articulating just how they stand apart from the competition.

They know how they contribute uniquely and the value they bring to the table.

ENGAGING IN “BELOW THE LINE” THINKING “Below the line” thinking refers to a particular mindset that shapes how you view the world in a limiting way. It leads to your believing that what’s happening to you is outside your control and everyone else’s fault – the economy, your industry, your boss, your spouse, etc.

Below the line thinking says, “It’s not fair what’s happening, and I don’t have what it takes to overcome these challenges. I didn’t expect this and I can’t handle it.”

Above the line thinking, on the other hand, says, “I clearly see the obstacles ahead, and I’m addressing them with open eyes.

I’m accountable for my life and my career, and I have what it takes to navigate through this successfully. If I fail, I’ll still wake up tomorrow exactly who I am, and will have learned something critical.”

MISTAKING FANTASTICAL WISHFUL THINKING FOR ACTION Successful professionals pursue outcomes that flow organically from their current actions.

Unsuccessful individuals attach to fantasies that may relieve

In addition, they don’t wait to bring up concerns – they tackle challenges head on, speaking about them openly, with calm, poise and grace. They don’t hide from their problems. And they don’t perceive themselves as hapless victims.

PUTTING OFF INVESTING IN THEMSELVES I see this behavior over and over in those who feel thwarted and unsuccessful – they are incredibly reluctant to invest time, money and energy in themselves and their own growth.

They are comfortable only when putting other people’s needs ahead of their own. They’ll make any excuse for why now is NOT the time to invest in themselves or commit to change.

They feel guilt, shame and anx-

iety over claiming “I’m worth this.” Successful people don’t wait – they spend money, time and effort on their own growth because they know without doubt it will pay off – for themselves and everyone around them.

RESISTING CHANGE Successful people don’t break themselves against what is or drown in the changing tides.

They go with the flow. They follow the trends, and embrace them. They are flexible, fluid and nimble. They react to what’s in front of them, and improvise deftly.

Those who are unsuccessful bemoan what is appearing before them, and stay stuck in the past or in what they “expected,” complaining about how life is not what it should be and why what is feels so wrong.

HONORING OTHER PEOPLE’S PRIORITIES OVER THEIR OWN Successful people know what matters most to them – their priorities, values, concerns, and their mission and purpose.

They don’t float aimlessly on a sea of possibility – they are masters of their own ship and know where they want to head, and make bold moves in the direction of their dreams. To do this, they are very clear about their top priorities in life and work, and won’t be waylaid by the priorities and values of others. In short, they have very well-defined boundaries, and know where they end and others begin.

They say “no” to endeavors and behaviors (and thinking) that will push them off track. They know what they want to create and the legacy they want to leave behind in this lifetime, and honor that each day.

DOUBTING THEMSELVES AND THEIR INSTINCTS Those who doubt themselves, lack trust in their own gut or instincts, or second-guess themselves continually find themselves far from where they want to be.

Successful professionals believe in themselves without fail. Sure, they acknowledge they have “power gaps” or blind spots, and areas that need deep Continue on Page 14

JANUARY 2014

Am I my Brother’s Keeper?

By Andrea Jean Baptiste Contributing Writer I grew up in a household where I saw my mother perform acts of charity regularly. Whether it was checking in on the old lady who lived next door to make sure she was okay, sending a meal to the blind lady who lived alone, or giving money to a family member who had fallen on hard times; she taught us how to act unselfishly with those we came into contact with, without expecting anything in return.

This past Christmas Eve, the islands of Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and Dominica experienced a devastating rainstorm which caused loss of lives, and millions of dollars in damage to homes, and the countries’ infrastructure. Many lost all they had. I can’t imagine for those affected what their Christmas was like. Instead of celebrating with family and friends, some were shoveling mud out of their homes and trying to salvage anything they could.

In the US, Canada, England, the Virgin Islands and elsewhere, groups and individuals are rallying to raise funds, and make donations of food, clothing and medical supplies to these islands.

The reason I posed the question at the top of this article is to ask whether we who are far away from the devastation feel a sense of responsibility to our fellow islanders to help out.

Is it sometimes a case of ‘out of sight, out of mind’! Or is it a case if it did not impact my family directly, I do not have to become involved. Are we our brother’s keeper even if they are thousands of miles away?

cases they are family members, friends and former neighbors.

Imagine that the little that you own has been washed away by the floodwaters; your home is filled with mud, your children’s school books, clothing and shoes have been washed away. How do you rebuild with little or no savings, no Government handout, no FEMA? What do you do? Who do you turn to at the time like this?

Many of us here in the United States have a better standard of living than those we left back home. We have closets of clothes and shoes, more dishes, glasses and cups than we can use on a daily basis and pantries full of food. Many of us do not live with poverty as a daily companion. In our day to day lives do we remember the less fortune back at home? Do we only reach out to help during times of disasters? Can we do something year round to help our communities?

Those already living in poverty suffer even more when there is a disaster. Saint Lucia, for example, is suffering its 2nd weather related disaster in four years (Hurricane Tomas October 2010, Christmas Eve trough December 2013). Imagine you have just finally gotten back on your feet and another storm comes around to knock you down again. How do you get up? How do you start over and with what?

The downturn the world’s economy has experienced over the past few years has affected everyone including the Caribbean islands. Things are even harder for those who live in poverty on a daily basis. Many of us know them personally, in some

Our communities back home need our help year round, not only in times of disaster when help is weeks away. In 2014 let us think of ways we can strengthen and support our home countries. Think of the difference you will make for a family when you help them get back on their feet. It will ease the stress and tension of figuring out how they are going to feed their children, replace their school books and uniforms and get back to some normalcy in their lives.

From Page 10 The American...

From Page 7 ...Turks and Caicos

per and middle income classes in our social strata. And that’s good for democracy. What’s not good is that the poor and lower income groups continue in voiceless invisibility and stillness.

I say, leadership over our own lives, or over those institutions at the grass-root level, which address the needs of low income groups, almost necessitates a comprehensive visionary agenda which speaks directly to those bread and butter issues that impact our daily lives and keeps our communities viable.

To ignore these will leave us illprepared to meet challenges facing us today and in the uncertain years ahead.

Michael Misick was arrested December 2012 by Brazilian Federal Police acting on a provisional arrest warrant. The TCI Special Investigation and Prosecution Team, who then submitted formal extradition papers in January 2013, sought Misick’s arrest. He arrived in TCI Tuesday, January 7, 2014.

His co-charged developer Richard Michael Padgett has already pled guilty to bribery and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and will be sentenced on 31st March 2014.

One Love Caribbean Call 281-769-2253

Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade

Health & Wellness

4 Ways to Look and Feel Your Best in 2014 Preventable Deaths from Heart

By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, DDS Medical Editor

Transform Your Smile With Whiter Teeth Yellow is a lovely color for a lemon, but for your teeth–not so much.

Today, there’s no reason to have discolored teeth.

Get amazing results using our state-of-the-art whitening systems. Unlike over-the-counter products, our unique advanced whitening technology meets the highest standards for both safety and effectiveness. If you didn’t do it in 2013, this is the year for your teeth to shine!

Look Younger A new year means a fresh new start: A new job, promotion, relationship or just a new lease on life! Rejuvenate your smile with our beautiful veneers, tooth-

Disease & Stroke

colored fillings and naturallooking crowns. Our advanced products and procedures can restore uniform size, color and shape to your teeth – much like when you were younger Get Rid of Toothache or Sensitivity When you cannot smile, speak, or chew properly, your moods, health and overall well-being suffer. Resolve to pick up the phone and get this taken care of, once and for all. Enjoy your favorite foods again.

Plus, healthier eating helps you keep your weight in check.

Overcome Your “Dental Fear”!

You’re not alone. A lot of our patients are anxious about some aspect of dentistry. Your concerns are legitimate, real and normal. Rest assured that we have ways to make your dental care more comfortable, more affordable…and yes, more en-

Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, DDS

joyable than you thought possible! Even if it’s been a while, you won’t regret your decision to come back and get the compassionate care you need – at a pace you can handle.

Dr. Ka-Ron Wade is a practicing Cosmetic dentist at The Dentistry of Dr. Ka-Ron Wade in Houston, Texas. Wade is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Orthodontic Society, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the American Association of Women Dentist.

Start 2014 With A 30-Day Fitness Challenge

By Competitor.com January 2, 2014 Do you find yourself constantly saying, “I really need to get in shape” or “This is the year I’m going to do it.” Or are you constantly dreaming about getting fit for a race — whether it’s your first or your fastest? Do you just want to lose 5 or 10 pounds and look better naked?

No matter your age, ability or background, you have the opportunity to get into the shape of your life in 2014. It’s much easier said than done — it’s one thing to be motivated in January and another thing entirely to make it happen throughout the year. Consistency is the key to building great fitness, but often that’s the piece that’s hardest to implement.

The solution? Start by committing to a 30-day fitness challenge. Aim to move in a meaningful, purpose-driven manner every day for a month.

If you start with a simple but consistent program for a full month, you’ll be able to create a baseline of fitness to build on through the rest of the year.

Once it becomes a habit — and that includes making time for it even when you don’t think you can — it will become part of your lifestyle. No matter if you’re completely out of shape or already have pretty good fitness, it will go a long way in helping you reach your goals.

Usain Bolt Guidelines to help you get (and stay) on track in 2014:

yourselves to leave each other hanging!

1) Just do it — something, anything — every single day. Commit to a minimum of 30 minutes a day for 30 days, but allow yourself to go longer if time, ability and fitness levels allow.

Keeping it up for 30 straight days can be a challenge, but that’s the point. Fitness doesn’t — and shouldn’t —come easy.

Hard work over time is how you get results.

4) Be accountable. Tell others about your goals, whether that means publicizing your 30-day challenge to your preferred social media channel or confiding in your best friend or significant other. Want to keep it personal? Write your goals down and put them in a place where you will see them every day, just as long as you can be accountable to yourself.

2) Have a plan. Set goals for yourself and establish a consistent workout routine every week. Schedule specific days for running, strength training, cross-training and recovery.

You know when you’ll be busy, so plan ahead and make room for at least a short bout of fitness every day.

5) Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Don’t start off by doing 2-hour runs for the marathon you’re planning to run in July or intense brick workouts for the Ironman you’re doing in August. Mix in a variety of activities, but keep it light and nimble.

Hammer yourself in a workout if you’d like, but not to the point it makes you too sore or fatigued and derails your 30-day quest.

3) Find a training buddy. Seek out a training partner to tackle your 30-day challenge along with you. Plan workout “dates” or “meet-ups” and don’t allow

6) Be realistic. Don’t head out on every run focused only on your Boston-qualifying time.

Many deaths from heart disease and stroke can be prevented. Your chances of dying from heart disease and stroke depend on many things.

• Use electronic health records to identify and support patients who need help quitting smoking or who have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Age: While the number of preventable deaths has declined in people ages 65-74, it has remained virtually unchanged in people under 65.

• Refer patients to community resources, such as smoking quitlines and blood pressure selfmanagement programs.

Race/ethnicity: Blacks are nearly twice as likely as whites to die early from heart disease and stroke.

Sex: Men have the highest risk of death across all races and ethnic groups. Black men are most at risk.

Nearly 1 in 3 deaths in the US each year is caused by heart disease and stroke. At least 200,000 of these deaths could have been prevented through changes in health habits, such as stopping smoking, more physical activity, and less salt in the diet; community changes to create healthier living spaces, such as safe places to exercise and smoke-free areas; and managing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

More people will have access to health care coverage and preventive care through the Affordable Care Act. Health care providers should talk with their patients about healthy habits at every visit and follow patients’ progress.

Health care systems and providers can also: Don’t do sit-ups with the goal of looking like the model on the cover of a glossy fitness magazine. Don’t expect an overnight metamorphosis. Just focus on putting in meaningful efforts every day.

7) Be flexible. Don’t make this a rigorous I-have-to-do-it-thisway kind of thing. Plan out what you’re going to do in advance, but be flexible and be ready to adapt. If your day changes and you find yourself having to go for a run at 9 p.m., embrace it for what it is and enjoy it. A rainstorm makes your early morning run impossible? Run during your lunch break, swim after work or do 30 minutes of core strength work before you go to bed.

8) Keep it simple. Not sure you can get through 30 days?

Need a rest day? Simply walk for 30 minutes to get your body moving. Remember, the goal is

• Track patient progress on the ABCS of heart health—Aspirin when appropriate, Blood pressure control, Cholesterol management, and Smoking cessation.

Preventable deaths are defined as those from ischemic heart disease, stroke, chronic rheumatic heart disease, and hypertensive disease in people under age 75, although changes in health habits and the health care system can reduce death among all ages.

Everyone can: • Have a conversation with your health care provider about the ABCS of heart health.

• Get help to stop smoking. If you don’t smoke, don’t start.

• Try going for a brisk 10-minute walk, 3 times a day, 5 days a week.

• Eat a heart-healthy diet with more fruits and vegetables and less sodium and trans fat.

• Know the signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke, and call 9-1-1 right away if you are experiencing them.

30 days of meaningful movement. A brisk, refreshing walk is better than sitting on the couch!

9) Enjoy it. Exercise — running, cross-training or whatever you do — should be fun.

If it’s not, stop doing it. You should be relishing the fact that you’re pushing yourself physically, mentally and emotionally every single day. Ending your day exhausted and waking up with a renewed spirit will help create self-perpetuating momentum.

10) Keep going. After 30 days, you’re bound to improve your fitness. Even if you started off pretty fit, you’ll see and feel noticeable changes in your body and conditioning level. Don’t stop there; set new goals and personal challenges for the next 30 days, develop long-term goals and start plotting your course to your next level of fitness.

JANUARY 2014 • ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN • Page 14

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all. They are in violation of immigration laws, and this is not a crime. It is a civil violation and these immigrants generally go through a process to see whether they should be allowed to remain in the U.S. The result may be a family that is torn apart for good.

WHAT TRIGGERS DEPORTATION?

For immigrants who are at risk of deportation the following most often trigger detention and deportation: During or Upon Finishing a Criminal Sentence (including probation and parole): the increased partnership between local police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) often means a person may be sent to ICE during or after a prison sentence has been served or the completion of other alternative programs.

When Applying for Citizenship, Adjustment of Status, Asylum or Other Immigration Benefits- many immigrants with old convictions, past deportation orders or immigration violations are often detained or placed in deportation proceedings when they apply for legal status or citizenship. It is imperative that you consult with an immigration attorney before seeking an immigration benefit, to ensure you are not placing yourself at a greater risk of deportation by so doing. For instance if you did not disclose that you were married at the time you received your green card, this non-disclosure could work against you when you become eligible for From Page 12 Successful People

development. But they forgive themselves for what they don’t know and the mistakes they’ve made, and accept themselves.

They keep going with hope and optimism, knowing that the lessons from these missteps will serve them well in the future.

SEARCHING FOR HANDOUTS AND EASY ANSWERS I can often tell from the first contact I have with someone

citizenship. If in applying for a driver’s license you indicated that you were eligible to vote, this could be very detrimental to you when you apply for citizenship.

Upon Being Stopped by the Police: a routine traffic stop for minor offenses such as a broken tail light could result in immigration involvement and interaction with ICE. This is especially so in communities where the police have decided to take on federal immigration enforcement duties. A person who is out of status and driving on an expired driver’s license is very likely to be taken in for questioning on his immigration status, which may lead to detention and deportation.

After Leaving the Country and Trying to Re-enter: at an airport, seaport or land border, immigration officials may detain noncitizens if they have old convictions (even if a misdemeanor) and even if they have traveled outside of the U.S. on many previous occasions since the convictions; green card

holders who do not appear to live in the U.S. and persons with tourist visas who make frequent trips to the U.S. lasting for lengthy periods are also at risk of deportation. Persons seeking to adjust their status in the U.S. who leave the country without permission may face deportation upon their return.

Everyday Locations: over the years immigration raids have become more aggressive.

Immigration agents are now boarding buses and trains and demanding “status documents” and arresting those who cannot produce them. They are also arresting people on the streets, workplaces, and in their homes, and often use deceptive tactics to get noncitizens to open the doors to their homes.

Next month we will look at what happens when someone is being deported and what you can do to help. Until next time, walk good!

Latania Mena is an Immigration Attorney and a Caribbean National based in the Southwest Houston, Texas.

Winter’s Terrible Threes

By MD Jones Houston’s Caribbean community lost three beloved members this past month, all males of different ages and backgrounds. In paying tribute to their deceased, people will have recalled their talents, generosity and warmth amid spurts of cultural humor and bittersweet tears.

We often hear it said that the birth and passing dates on the tombstone don’t matter as much as the dash in between, or that how one dies is not as important as how one has lived.

However, Biblical research and my own relationship with some of the people who have become ancestors confirm that all parts of the life cycle hold very valuable insights.

For example, birthdate, birth status and birth order help to determine a person’s treatment in a family and society, which then affects personality, attitude, or even behavior. Then we have the cause of death that shows the person’s health or lifestyle.

In reflecting on the lifestyles of people who have met their demise, one can admire those who were servants of the people, regardless of their private challenges, who did not wait until they were rich or retired to share their time, talents or funds with those in need. Unfortunately, sometimes people without real needs or whose

if they’ll be likely to succeed in their new entrepreneurial venture and career, or not. How? By the nature of their expectations, and how they set out to fulfill them.

Here’s an example – if a complete stranger reaches out to me expecting free help without considering what she may offer in return, it’s a bad sign.

Let’s say she asks something like this: “I’m launching my new business and wondered if

you can give me some advice.

I can’t pay you because I’m a startup, but I hope you can help me anyway.”

From this one email, I know she’s not ready to make it happen in her own business.

Why? Because successful professionals (and those destined to be) wouldn’t consider asking for help in this way. Instead, they: 1) understand that they have something important and valuable to offer in any situa-

tion, 2) are willing and happy to share or barter that in return for what they want, and 3) they treat others exactly as they would like to be treated.

Successful professionals are respectful, resourceful, curious, competent, tenacious, and they figure out how to get the help they need without asking for handouts. That doesn’t mean they don’t seek assistance when and where they need it , or make use of the many free resources available to them.

It means that they don’t expect something for nothing. They

needs were already well met have been the ones to drain these caretakers with their selfcentered demands, usually not once thinking to repay with attention to any needs these giving souls may have.

How often do you hear seemingly close friends and relatives praise the dearly departed for always having been there to listen, rescue, or support them, yet they cannot express the joy of returning that sympathy or favor? In many cases, these wonderfully giving people they talk about died lonely or deprived of something very basic.

To the recently bereaved in our Bahamian, Jamaican and Trinidadian communities, warmest condolences...

To our other community members, change this scene in 2014: Those easy access humans we know to call on at the last minute, please support them occasionally with your own time and talents. If you see they have a health challenge or live alone, at least call or investigate any lapse in consistency if they are usually in contact with someone.

And if little or none of this applies to you, at least interrupt the people you see trying to sap their energy or undermine their genuine goodwill efforts.

Happy New Year!

MD Jones is CEO of the Caribbean Impact Network

treat others equitably and fairly and know they deserve the same. Successful professionals realize that if they’re not willing to pay for products and services they want, then others won’t be willing to pay them (yes, it works like karma).

They also know that their success is directly proportionate to the effort they put in. Most of all, they understand there are no short cuts or easy answers on the road to success.

Source: www.forbes.com

One Love Caribbean

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ISLAND STYLEE

Page 15 • ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN • JANUARY 2014

JOKES, SATIRE, AND POEMS

ULTURE

ISLANDS

By Guy Tirolien (Guadeloupe)

ISLAND RECIPES THE ART OF CARIBBEAN COOKING

A CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS KALLALOO SOUP AND FUNGEE

ISLAND BEEF SOUP Ingredients 2 lbs. bone-in stew beef, cut up 2 tbsp. olive oil 5 garlic cloves, minced 1/3 cup yellow onions, chopped 1/3 cup green pepper, chopped 1/3 cup celery, chopped 5 sprigs of cilantro, chopped 4 tomatoes, cored and chopped 4 quarts water 2 green bananas 1 yellow plantain 1 lb. sweet potato 1/2 lb. pumpkin 3 medium new potatoes 1 large chayote, cored 2 ears of yellow corn, chunk 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Kallaloo Soup Ingredients 1 lb. okra 1/4 lb. salt pork or pigtail 1 lb. spinach, chopped 1/2 lb. crab meat 1/2 cup onion chopped 6 tbsp. flour 1/2 tsp salt 6 cups water 1 can coconut milk 1/2 tsp. black pepper 1/4 tsp. scott bonnet pepper

Island Beef Soup

Direction Take one half of the Chop okra very fine and reserve the other half as whole okra.

Place salt pork in a deep saucepan with water and boil for about 15 minutes. Drain water and wash meat to remove salts. Place salt pork in a deep saucepan with water and boil until meat is tender.

Direction

Peeled and sliced into 1inch: cube green bananas, yellow plantain, chayote, sweet potato, and pumpkin.

Clean new potatoes and cut in quarters In a large pot at low-to-medium heat, combine olive oil, garlic, beef cubes, and onions, stir until beef is brown.

Add green pepper, celery, cilantro, salt, pepper, tomatoes, and water. Allow to cook until beef is tender. Add green bananas, yellow plantain, chayote, sweet potato, and pumpkin. Continue to cook until and the vegetables soft.

Add chopped okra, spinach, onion to salt pork. Allow to simmer for about okra and spinach are soft.

Kallaloo Soup and Fungee

Add crab meat, salt, pepper, coconut milk and remaining okra. Continue to cook until whole okras are soft.

Make a thin paste with flour and water and gradually add to soup and stir to attend thickness.

Antiguan Fungee

Saltfish Gundy

Ingredients 3 cups water 3 okras, chopped 2 cups fine yellow cornmeal 2 tbsp butter Pinch of salt Pepper, to taste

Ingredients 1 lb salted codfish 1 tsp capers ½ medium onion ½ cup salad oil 2 tsp vinegar 2 hard boiled eggs

Saltfish Gundy

Direction Soak saltfish long enough to remove excess salt. Wash, remove skin and bones. Mix salad oil with vinegar and set aside. Put saltfish, onion, and capers through meat grinder. Combine well with salad oil mixture. Garnish with slices of hard boiled eggs.

Direction Place okra butter, and salt in a medium size saucepan. Add water and boil until okra is soft.

Mix cornmeal with cold water in another bowl until completely wet.

Add wet cornmeal to the boiling mixture and allow to cook under a low heat while stirring continuously until a semi hard paste is form.

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This is the low house in which my race has grown.

Twisting and lifting, the road takes off beyond.

Will it reach the weary waters beneath the distant mango trees?

Smells of burnt earth and salt cod Wafting under the muzzle of thirst.

A smile splitting the ripe coco-plum of an aged face.

The vague prayer of smoke-trails.

Lament of a prolonged neighing that scales the sides of the ravines.

Voices of rum with their breath warming our ears.

Clatter of dominoes rifling the birds’ repose.

Calypso rhythms in the warm belly of our banjos.

Laughter of desire in the deep insides of the night.

Mouths starved of bread swilling the cheap alcohol of words.

The island pushing towards morning its weight of humanity.

Ugly Things

By Teresita Fernández (Cuba) In an old worn out basin I planted violets for you` and down by the river with an empty seashell I found you a firefly.

In a broken bottle I kept a seashell for you and coiled over that rusty fence the coral snake flowered just for you.

Cockroach wing carried to the anthill: that’s how I want them to take me to the cemetery when I die.

Garbage dump, garbage dump where nobody wants to look but if the moon comes out your tin cans will shine.

If you put a bit of love into ugly things you’ll see that your sadness will begin to change color.

Caribbean Proverb Poems James Berry (Jamaica) Dog mornin prayer is, Laard what teday, a bone or a blow?

Tiger wahn fi nyam pickney, tiger sey he could-a swear e woz puss.

If yu cahn mek plenty yeyewater fi funeral, start a-bawl early mornin.

Hungrybelly an Fullbelly dohn walk same pass.

Fullbelly always a-tell Emptybelly ‘Keep heart’.

Yu fraid fi yeye yu cahn nyam cowhead.

Bake Good

Currant Roll Cake Coconut Drop

Yeye meet yeye an man fraid!

Yu si yu neighbour beard ketch fire, yu tek water an wet fi yu.

When lonely man dead, grass come grow a him door.

Satan may be ol but Satan not bedriddn.

Man who is all honey, fly dem goin nyam him up.

The Church Moral Police Every church has a self-appointed moral police and this big church in Dominica was no exception. In that church, it was Mabel; she kept sticking her nose into other people’s business. She always knew who was going with who. Although most of the congregation did not like her activities and melees, they feared her enough to maintain their silence.

She made a mistake, however, when she accused a newest church member, George from Portsmouth, of being an alcoholic after she saw his pickup truck parked in front of the town’s only bar one afternoon. She commented to George and others that everyone seeing it there would know that he was an alcoholic.

George, a man of few words, stared at her for a moment and just walked away. He said nothing. Later that evening, George quietly parked his pickup in front of Mabel’s house and left it there all night.

The Church Moral Police A West Indian woman called up a pet store and said, “Send me thirty-thousand cockroaches at once!”

“What in the world do you want with thirty-thousand cockroaches?” asked the astonished clerk.

“Well,” replied the woman, “I moving today and my lease say I must leave the premises in exactly the same condition I found it.”

A Bargain Parking A young Jamaican man walked into a bank in Katy, TX and asked for the loan officer. He told the loan officer that he was going to Jamaica on a vacation for two weeks and needed to borrow $5,000. The bank officer told him that the bank would need some form of security for the loan, so the Jamaican man handed over the keys to a new BMW 740i. The car was parked on the street in front of the bank. The Jamaican produced the title and everything checked out.

The loan officer agreed to accept the car as collateral for the loan.

The bank’s president and its officers all enjoyed a good laugh at the Jamaican for using a $80,000 BMW as collateral against a $5,000 loan.

An employee of the bank then drove the BMW into the bank’s underground garage and parked it there.

Two weeks later, the Jamaican man returned, repaid the $5,000 and the interest, which came to $15.41.

The loan officer said, “Sir, we are very happy to have had your business, and this transaction has worked out very nicely, but we are a little puzzled. While you were away, we checked you out and found that you are a successful business man.

What puzzles us is, why would you bother to borrow $5,000?” The Jamaican replies: “Where else in Katy can I park my car for two weeks for only $15.41 and expect it to be there when I return?”

The bank employees watch as he pulled out of the garage, windows down and sunroof open. The music was blasting from his car as he pulled away, “We run things, things no run we, everything we do, it done properly.”

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