WhereItzAt July/Aug. 2016

Donald Bell

Chef Peter Ivey

TAKING THE LEAD VOTE HILLARY CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT!

WE ARE WITH HER!

PRR RECORDING STUDIO PRIVACY | PROFESSIONALISM | EXCLUSIVITY 21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGY (See page 35)

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 1

2 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

Offer Expires October 31st, 2016

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 3

July/Aug

Vol #14 7th edition

Articles

8 Jamaica: Security & Good Governance - By Melissa Rawlins 10 Mandeville Revisited

By Melissa Rawlins 11 Leading Caribbean-Born Physician 14 The Marriage Tax - Really?

By Patrick A. Sterling 16 The Rosedale Weekend Walk

Contents Feature Articles

A LEADER IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY

17 Leslie Jones 20 Moments Golf Classic

By Clive Williams

Donald Bell

pg. 18

24 Intelligentsia Meets Dancehall 26 Zeitgeist: Police Actions & the systematic creation... By Nesta 28 Social Media Marketing Benefits?

By Desiree Briceno 30 Urban Gardens By Glenise Gomez

Travelling the World With The Reggae Chefs® Chef Peter Ivey

pg. 19

CHAIRMAN & PUBLISHER

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PHOTO JOURNALIST

LEGAL COUNSELOR

PHOTOGRAPHERS

CLIVE WILLIAMS

CLIVE WILLIAMS

MARJORIE FLASH

GARNETT H. SULLIVAN, ESQ

UNIVERSAL PRODUCTIONS

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

ART DIRECTOR

NEW MEDIA INITIATIVES

ON THE COVER IMAGE

CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS

CHRISTIAN XAVIER JONES

ROCKSTONE MEDIA GROUP

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

MANAGING EDITOR OF ONLINE CONTROLLER MAGAZINE MICHELLE WILLIAMS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ANNETTE GORDON - DR. CLIVE WILLIAMS CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS- MELISSA RAWLINS GLENISE GOMEZ - DESIREE BRICENO - NESTA YOLANDA CANDELARIO

ANNETTE GORDON

CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS

DONALD BELL, CHEF PETER IVEY

INQUIRIIES

Clive Williams (917) 749-7613

wiaeditors@gmail.com

www.gowhereitzat.com www.facebook.com/whereitzatmagazine twitter.com/gowhereitzat

WhereItzAt Magazine is published monthly by WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. WhereItzAt Magazine is a registered trademark of WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written consent is prohibited. Views of editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of WhereItzAt Magazine, WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. or its advertisers. For questoins, comments and concerns address your letters to: WhereItzAt Magazine • 219-10 S. Conduit Avenue • Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 or email:editors@whereitzatmag.com WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. 461 Elmont Rd. Elmont,NY 11003 Phone: (917) 749-7613 4 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

Find your way to savings.

Save an average of $500* Stop here for great rates with America’s #1 car insurance company**.

Give me a call today.

Mark A Smith Agcy Inc Mark Smith, Agent 141 Conklin Street Farmingdale, NY 11735 Bus: 516-293-8684

statefarm.com®

*Annual average per household savings based on 2012 national survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm.

1005000.1

**Based on A.M. Best written premium.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company – Bloomington, IL

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 5

PUBLISHER’S VIBE

THE DOMINANCE OF THE DUMB “Why Ignorance and Fear Flourishes in the Age of Information.”

Clive Williams, CEO/ Publisher _________________________

M

Donald Trump? He would be unelectable in any other English speaking country we know.

Have we been unwise in assuming political sophistication and savvy from our fellow citizens or is there a prevailing state of temporary insanity running through our great nation, worse still, are their actions motivated by ignorance and fear? Is there some insidious underlying reason or reasons why many good, decent people have neglected, or out rightly rejected the damning evidence and negative public information about this man’s business and professional ethics? Is it that he has created an echo chamber for the disaffected, too cowardly to express their hate and malice towards immigrants, people of color and opposite religious and cultural systems?

y friends, I am writing this piece with great concern and consternation, a concern I can share with you, the same way I shared with my wife – honestly, painfully and sadly.

We are immigrants from the Island of Jamaica who have lived through the leadership some of the most brilliant and colorful politicians as well as some the most Machiavellian and venal anyone could ever imagine. That exposure, coupled with our study and experience of the partisanship that resulted, divided our small nation in a way that still perplexes sociologists to this day. Thank God, through a stubborn loyalty to parliamentary democracy and the rule of law, we have averted the “banana republic syndrome.” We have also dodged dictatorship and plutocracy, though we have been ripe for these forms of rule for too long. Why have we been able to dodge the bullet for such a long time? How have we managed to maintain a stable democratic system despite some of the bad actors who have vied for political power? If Ok, so Trump’s big argument to the disaffected the tiny Island of Jamaica can foil demagoguery is that, the system is rigged. Think for just a and dystopia, so can these Great United States! minute folks, he built whatever wealth he boasts about, because of that rigged system. In his own I must admit, I have not sought the advice or words he says he has benefitted from that system, counsel of any of my Sociologist friends, but so HE knows how to fix it. A dear friend of mine, rather, I will in the interest of time, (this article a good successful businessman, said recently is hastily written) rely on research and my own on Facebook that, “Trump is an outsider who conclusions, bear with me because I intend to ask can correct the rigged system, while Hillary you many questions. So allow me to reprise that Clinton has been part of that system for far earlier conversation with my wife; my plaintive too long, to create change.” At first glance that and painful question to her was, “what the hell might seem to be a reasonable argument, but is wrong with these people? Why would anyone on closer examination its weakness becomes in their right mind support the candidacy of obvious and you already know why. Its people 6 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

like Trump who conspire to rig the system using large donations and lobbyists to practice what is widely known as influence peddling, it’s that unfair advantage that stifles the little man, (small companies, communities and minorities) crushing any chances they might have in competing on an equal footing. So, are you willing to let the fox in the hen house and hope that he improves their living conditions or, that, maybe, just maybe, he behaves the way foxes do with hens?

While reasoning with my wife, as I am with you, I told her about a friend who told me he found Trump refreshing because he says the things politicians don’t say, mind you, this is a person of color. I sent my friend a list of some of what he calls refreshing statements and what I call Trumpisms, here we go: 1. Trump speaking about President Obama “I have a birth certificate. People have birth certificates. He doesn’t have a birth certificate.

He may have one but there is something on that birth certificate – maybe religion, maybe it says he’s a Muslim. Maybe he doesn’t want that. I don’t know. Or, he may not have one.” Mar. 30, 2011. The Washington Post.

2. “I will build a great wall and nobody builds walls better than me, believe me and I’ll build them very inexpensively. I will build a great, great wall on our southern border and I will make Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words.” Townhall.com 3. “Arianna Huffington, (founder of The Huffington Post) is unattractive, both inside and out. I fully understand why her former husband left her for a man – he made a good decision.” Twitter.

4. ”Our great African American President hasn’t exactly had a positive impact on the thugs who are so happily and openly destroying Baltimore.”

Twitter.

PUBLISHER’S VIBE

5. ”I have a great relationship with the Blacks. I’ve always had a great relationship with the Blacks.”

6. ”If Ivanka weren’t my daughter perhaps I’d be dating her. The View.

Donald Trump is DUMB, and his influence and dominance over the lives of his family and his followers makes him dangerous. He publicly exhibited how dangerous he is when he said, “I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody and not lose any voters.” This is the potential Law and Order President. Wow! Quite recently he invited and exhorted the Russians to find Hillary Clinton’s missing emails, an invitation to our enemy, to hack our Country’s security systems? What kind of species is he?

Donald Trump is running on Ego, he has nothing left but insults and innuendo; he will continue to make dumb decisions, make dumb statements and encourage dumb attitudes and dumb behavior from his followers. We must dumbfound this demagoguery at the ballot box come November! Or else Citizen Journalists like me may be rounded up by the fascist in the (TRUMP HOUSE) White House built by slaves.

It is no secret that Donald Trump hates President Obama, let me speculate why; its an admixture of Penis envy - a strong confident Black man, possessing an unbreakable and unshakable spirit, married to the most beautiful and gifted woman ever to occupy the Black House, Michelle Obama. Yea Donald, I know why you want to make “America Hate Again.” You’d love to see that uppity N*%% *R get his comeuppance wouldn’t you? Trump bears a seething, malevolent hatred for the President and he is sharing the Fool-Aid to those who crave it. Barak Obama is everything he is not, Barack Obama has got what Donald Trump craves more than anything – The Presidency of the United States,’ let us make sure this November, that he never comes close.

‘Cause that’s WhereItzAt! PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 7

URBAN CULTURE

JAMAICA: Security and Good Governance

By Melissa Rawlins

S

forums, supporting or being (underground) political representatives. The Diaspora can not sleep on the power that they have and wield in education, health, and consumer good due to the power of their economic weight.

ome time ago I attended an open forum, sponsored by Jamaica National Bank and the Caribbean Policy Research Institute (CaPRI) regarding Dialogue between Democracies: Security and Good Governance. They displayed an example of engaging the public in much needed discourse.

The events most dominant subject, oft repeated with great vitriol, was the topic of crime and violence in Jamaica.

There is no segment of life in Jamaica, not a fragment of the Rock, that is unblemished by these seemingly constant, terrible atrocities.

It was heavily pointed out however, that crime and violence are two different things. An example was given of an elderly woman who was robbed inside of her home. After she was relieved of her things by the three male youths who invaded her home, she was severely beaten. Now, after the Crime was done, these strong, able bodied youths could’ve left her premises with the pilfered items. Instead, they choose to beat her; a person who could not physically defend herself. This is the Violence.

And the biggest question is WHY? Statistically, the #1 sector of crime in Jamaica is violence against women and history shows us that crimes against women and children are crimes against (our) society as a whole. Unnecessary violence after crimes, broken individuals and broken values all compound the alarming situation.

Again, WHY? Amongst the many proffered ‘THE ANSWER’ answers were for Jamaicans at home and especially abroad, to take steps to be civically involved and actively participate in governance. “As a citizen your (civic) job is to be engaged at all times…” commented Dr. Una Clarke. It was also pointed out that total remittance in the past 10 years have been in excess of 2 billion dollars. Barrel 8 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

fee, school fee, somebody needs a new roof and chicken feed, all of these hard working dollars we send home makes more than a difference, it makes us contenders in the realm of economy and governance.

44% of youths in Jamaica are unemployed. 65% under the age of 35 with ½ under age 21.

We also know that people do not trust the government. We know there is a lack of faith in the foundations of Jamaica. There is even doubt in Jamaicans of Jamaicans.

“If you wonder why an advantaged country such as Jamaica, with so many resources and so much potential continues to be poor and indebted, it is because we repeatedly elect governments to make the economy worse,” Dr. Damien King remarked.

Since 2001, Jamaica has had to deal with being one of the most indebted countries in the world, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 120 per cent.

Mr. Earl Jarrett, GM of Jamaica National Bank noted that, “We need to remember that democracy is a participatory process”. That means that Jamaicans at home can display a better voter turnout in general elections than in this last one which showed the lowest voter participation since Universal Adult Suffrage in 1944 JA. That means Jamaicans abroad in the Diaspora, who send home 1.8 Billion dollars in RESSION time, can participate by sitting on Boards, by having voting

After this public forum, Dialogue Between Democracies: Security and Good Governance I took some time to digest the contents of the forum as there were many points that touched me directly.

I’ve seen odd habits formed, intended as personal security measures and I’ve heeded warnings of when not to stand on certain streets. So when I saw, in the very public and international new outlets, that two American missionaries were murdered in St. Mary, I was appalled. These men lived on the Island for over 14 years doing humanitarian work, building houses, laying foundations and repairing roofs. They had families, numerous children and were doing the righteous work of the Church, and they ended up chopped and shot in the fertile bushes of Jamaica.

There are no suspects and few clues, and I wonder if there will be any accountability. Many times in these types of crimes in Jamaica, a family members or people in the district all chime, “He is such a good bwoy...”, or something in the likes in deference of the wicked. Where is accountability or self-accountability? Or even public outcry?

How vicious and barbaric we must look to the world. When can the terrible truth be the terrible truth, where we acknowledge, and manage it?

We cannot turn a blind eye, wickedly, like The Chumps of Western politics. All we have is us!

There are only so many forums and debates we can have before it comes down to the Island, the parishes, the districts, and finally the homes, where we can look at ourselves and make the needed adjustments.

The trend of starting important conversation is vital to our strength in Independence, as it’s plain to see that the mission has just begun.

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 9

ROOTS & CULTURE

MANDEVILLE REVISITED

Big City Girl Returns Home I paid a man to carry me away!

Aunty has a dependable taxi man, a friend she knows from when, who carried her around when she’d just come and had no vehicle. She gave me his number and we both put in a call. When he finally arrived he explained that he had to pick the children up from school, and if I minded.

I declared I did not and that he should take his time. I was fine in the front seat, taking it all in.

It was not lost on me that it was a few days from December and it was in the 80’s. The hot shiny sun made everything green, lush and full of life. I could barely contain myself, noticing how beautiful the passing land of Mandeville was and how unassuming and stylish the people looked.

The simple movement of everyday life was so hauntingly beautiful, I kept snapping away at it with my camera.

Cars parked along the roadside. Laundry that you know someone was paid to wash, fluttering in yards. Women crossing the road with Spiderman covered kids. People milling about, tending front yards, grills, car tires and goats.

There was a certain residential neighborhood that we passed through, called Mt. Nelson. I know because I saw the sign, made to look like hand carved wood, a proud but understated plaque-etching type signage.

The homes were crazy! Huge beautiful spacious colorful homes, clearly middle class and up, were scattered about with newer ones coming up alongside. They had plenty of land. A vast majority of the homes had at least three levels. So I asked the driver, “Who lives here?” He looked thoughtful and I threw out a suggestion with my polluted preconceived notions. “The Drug Men?” He said, “Working people, returnee, drug man, some young people, everybody deh bout”.

So far we had one little passenger rattling around the backseat and that number would grow to six in the next hour or so, as we picked them up from school and dropped them to their different destinations. They giggled and admonished each other if one came into the car and did not acknowledge me “the lady” in the front seat, with a “Goodnight”. They stated their names and grades.

Age 6, age 8, age 6, age 9. A lone giggly girl sat amongst them with the prettiest braids. They shared a blue pack of 10 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

vanilla cookies and whispered loudly to each other.

The Driva, who seemed super friendly and determined, was called out to quite a bit on the road. Everyone called to him to say hello. Partway through the trip when only 2 children remained he picked up an older woman and her load from a friends’ house. Away we all went, into the sunshine of the day, in the unending rounds of errands.

The woman was dropped off en route, reminding the kids to remember to brush their teeth before bed so cavities won’t set in and off we were again.

When we finally reached the super market, Shoppers Fair, Aunty was just calling up Driva (“don’t stop at all!!) Saying that I should be sent home as it was getting late and I should be sent back to my mother alive. It was 5:30pm!

I just took a deep breath and grabbed a cart, which the driva pushed for me and pulled out my crumpled list.

Raisins, Dry coconuts, Sweet potatoes, Brown Sugar, Pepsi, Bun (and I forgot cheese. Who does that???) and strawberry cookies. I got some cookies for the school youths, a fry chicken dinner to go and off we went before anybody’s phone could get a chance to ring again.

Then, I met a man in Jamaica.

Fren let me tell you. With all the grill and locks and gates, I knew one was coming for me.

This was Jamaica, after all.

I came home to find a visitor of Aunty; a neighbor, a renter, a fixer, just chillin on the veranda.

We met the first week I came down but very briefly so I barely remembered him. He was at the supermarket when

By Melissa Rawlins everyone was passing sharing greetings and introductions and moving right along.

There he sat all freckles and dimpled out, looking like big trouble.

And he knew he was trouble too.

There is nothing like a Jamaican Mans’ overtures when he puts it on you. Subtle is not in his vocabulary. He was so cool and freckled, and evidently a ladies man. I laughed so hard but his continued conversation showed he was a genuine person. Also, he was on the veranda of ‘No Admittance’ so he had to be cool.

He asked me where I’d been from he saw me last, which was many weeks prior. I told him that I was mostly home with Aunty but was soon making a move to Trelawny.

Which I did the very next days for a couple of days. I had to immerse myself in my foundation yaad which was full of cousins, food, Christiana, callalou, yam, Aunties and Uncles, little cousins in college, ridiculous Plazas and my dad.

When I came back, Brad, lets call him Brad, Brad comes back to visit me in Mandeville at my Aunty and he kindly offers to take me around Jamaica while he’s working so I wouldn’t have to languish during the long endless day. His employment allowed him to be on the road, constantly mixing it up with people, traveling in his company car, being a congenial mayor of sorts. I spent a long two days thinking about it, where my body would be found, how it would play out in the News, before I finally relented and got myself ready for the 8:30am pickup time he gave me for the Wednesday morning.

I grabbed a cup of tea and sat on the veranda in the overcast morning and waited for the freckled Playboy.

COMMUNITY NEWS MAIMONIDES DOCTOR RECOGNIZED AS LEADING CARIBBEAN-BORN PHYSICIAN

Dr. Comrie also participates in the Blood Management Program at Maimonides. Using special techniques and advanced technologies, Dr. Comrie performs complex surgical procedures that not only allow for potential preservation of fertility, but also enable her to avoid the use of blood transfusions for patients who wish to do so.

years. Obstetrical and gynecological services offered include: wellness exams; genetic counseling; perinatal counseling; minimally invasive and robotic surgery; and reproductive endocrinology and fertility services.

education, diagnosis, and treatment of complex health “My desire to improve women’s health is the driving force conditions facing women today. behind my work,” explained Dr. Comrie. “Education is A pioneer in the advanced care and surgical treatment of a strong weapon in the hands of patients, surgeons and fibroids, Dr. Comrie has been instrumental in developing other healthcare professionals.”

strengthening our teaching and research programs. With 711 beds, the Medical Center is dedicated to bringing patients the most advanced care available—anywhere.

Maimonides continues to grow in response to evolving models of care that better serve patients and families, and is an affiliate of Northwell Health. To learn more, please visit www.maimonidesmed.org.

Maimonides Medical Center is pleased to announce that Dr. Millicent Comrie, Director of the Brooklyn Experts at Maimonides utilize the latest information Heights Women’s Center at Maimonides, has been named technologies to diagnose and treat patients, and are proud among the “Top 10 Caribbean-Born Female Doctors in “I am honored to receive this designation,” noted Dr. to deliver more than 8,000 babies every year. the U.S.” by News Americas.

Comrie. “It has been unbelievably gratifying to provide The Brooklyn Heights Women’s Center at Maimonides is “Dr. Comrie is a premier obstetrician and gynecologist,” comprehensive women’s health services to the residents of located at 26 Court Street, Brooklyn, New York 11242. said Ken Gibbs, President and CEO. “This outstanding Brooklyn and beyond.”

To make an appointment or to learn more, please call designation speaks to the excellent quality of care we Dr. Comrie was also recently honored for being a leader 718-852-9180. provide at Maimonides.” in medicine by the Society of Foreign Consuls, an Maimonides Medical Center is nationally recognized Dr. Millicent Comrie has been caring for patients for international organization representing the world’s largest for clinical excellence across all major specialties. Our over forty years and has dedicated her practice to the consular corps in New York. accomplished physicians are known for innovation and

techniques that allow women to retain their uterus and not have to undergo a hysterectomy, thus preserving fertility. She has integrated gynecological and radiological approaches in the treatment of fibroids, which strikes a disproportionate number of women of color.

At Maimonides, OB/GYN specialists collaborate with other specialty areas and services to offer women and expectant mothers the highest level of multidisciplinary care. Maimonides offers a full range of OB/GYN services for women, from adolescence through post-menopausal

Courtesy of www.maimonidesmed.org

THE DUMPLIN SHOP For great tasting

Relocated to

Cuisine and the best Fried Fish and Dumpling

1530 East 222nd Street, Bronx, NY 10469 • 718-653-3143

FRIED & STEAMED FISH, ACKEE & COOKED SALTFISH

Orders taken for all occasions

• Juice Bar

• Parties • Catering PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 11

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Find yourCONNECTIONS way to savings.

CLIVE WILLIAMS GET CONNECTED!

This list of small business owners and professional practitioners represent the very best in our community.

They advertise in order to make you aware of the fine products and services they offer, which in turn allows you a happier and more satisfying lifestyle. They are consistent and constant advertisers because they understand the power of Communication and Connection; as long as they continue to speak to you through their AD, they remain Connected to you. You grow to trust them and they honor that trust by offering you better products and Services, that’s the contract. Whereitzat Magazine is a tangible manifestation of Clive Williams Connections – call me to refer you to a growing number of businesses and services that’s part of our network. Have you started a new business? Do you need more customers for your business or professional practice?

We know your market, we’ve tested it, we’re invested in it, because we believe in it. Join us in getting your share of the Caribbean American market. Yes, we are communities of color, where the dominant color is Green. If you ever need more information about a Connection call me at 1800 301 5817. Lets Connect!

Save an average of $500* Stop here for great rates with America’s #1 car insurance company**.

Give me a call today.

631-327-7053

718-523-5099

516-320-5067

Mark A Smith Agcy Inc Mark Smith, Agent 141 Conklin Street Farmingdale, NY 11735 Bus: 516-293-8684

statefarm.com®

845-398-0365 718-523-CAKE (2253)

516-293-8684

*Annual average per household savings based on 2012 national survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm.

1005000.1

**Based on A.M. Best written premium.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company – Bloomington, IL

718-653-3143 718-276-5000 12 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

516-766-6900

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

718-712-1106 516-561-7373 / 516-872-6200

718-465-CHEF (2433)

PATMAR BAKE SHOP Suzette Grant-McTaggart, Partner

718-949-7078

718-690-3340

The Sterling Group Inc. 917-250-1746

917-575-0681

516-699-2375

718-272-8900 800-920-4225 516-568-2676

Vital Health Foods 718-525-0992 347-640-3215

516-279-6988

JOIN THE CONNECTION NOW! 1.800.301.5817 PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 13

FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT

THE MARRIAGE TAX – REALLY? Y

By Patrick A. Sterling ou are now married for the first time. midnight on December 31st, 2016, the IRS Congratulations! How does your new marital gives you full credit for that child for the entire Separately”, they will pay higher taxes. This status affect your taxes? year. is referred to as the marriage penalty, and I Well let me not count the ways. But there are Generally if both spouses work, joining the two strongly advise - married couples should avoid many ways you and your spouse will be affected incomes will likely place both in a higher tax filing using this tax status. by tax and social security laws. First the bride bracket. But this rule of thumb does not apply The other tax matter that affects your marriage may need a name change. If the name change is to those earning taxable income in the 15% status is your health care payments. If you to be effected officially, the bride must complete tax bracket. Let’s take the following scenario to purchased your health plan through the state form SS-5. This form is available from the Social demonstrate. exchange, you must inform them of the status Security Administration via SSA.gov or you change. Remember, your health plan premium may call them at 800-772-1213. Your name and Jill is a single nursing attendant with taxable is based on you income, and marital status. IF social security number must match, therefore income $30,000. 00 for 2016. She marries you were receiving a subsidy to help purchase completing the aforementioned process ensures John a single mechanic who has taxable income your health plan, once your income changes the there will be no snags when you file your tax of $40,000.00. Prior to being married Jill’s subsidy may change. federal taxes would be $4,037.00. John’s would return the following year. be $5,772.00. That is a total of $9,809.00. If Additionally you may want to purchase a joint The change in your marital status may necessitate they file jointly their combined taxable income plan with your spouse vs a single plan. It’s a change in your tax withholding through your will now be $70,000, and their taxes would be generally less expensive to purchase a joint plan employer. Your Employer will provide you $9,574.00 – a saving of $235! for a couple, than two single plans. with a copy of a new Form “W-4” Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate. Completing However if this couple filed separately, using the These are some of the issues that will affect the W-4 also provide your employer, the IRS, status “Married Filing Separately” they would your income status when you become a legally wedded couple.

Social Security Administration, and the State of pay much higher taxes. your address change if either one or both parties Any couple who has recently changed their Every couple’s situation is different. Please refer changed their address. marital status should consult with their Tax to your Tax Preparer. Or call me at Most importantly however is the amount of Preparer regarding the tax the ramifications 917 250-1746 income taxes you will pay based on your new of filing using their new tax status. A married marital status - and your marital status for tax couple cannot uncouple for tax purposes legally Patrick A. Sterling purposes changes for 2016, even if you are filing “single” or “Head of Household”. If they BS, MS / Business/Tax Advisor married on December 31st, 2016. In other choose to file separate returns the legal status is I can be reached words, the IRS considers you married for the “Married Filing Separately”. via inbox on Facebook: entire year. Similarly if you have a child at 12 When a married couple files “Married Filing The Sterling Group Inc. or by phone: 917 250 1746

14 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

NOW CELEBRATING 25 25YEARS YEARS OF VITAL SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY!

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 15

WhereItzAt Pix

THE ROSEDALE WEEKEND WALK CELEBRATING A STRONG COMMUNITY

By Photo Journalist Corey Ince

16 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

THE MOST MOUTH-WATERING BRUNCH IN QUEENS

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

ENTERTAINMENT LESLIE, WHEREITZAT LOVES YOU AND STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH YOU - YOU ARE GORGEOUS!

Editors Note: Leslie Jones has been the victim of some of the most vile, racist tweets, since the release of the remake of the Ghost Busters movie. Ms. Jones has since closed her twitter account.

A

ctress and comedian Leslie Jones was born on September 7, 1967 in Memphis, Tennessee. At 6 feet tall, Jones received a basketball scholarship to Chapman University, and later attended Colorado State University.

She started performing standup comedy in college and spent several years on the comedy circuit before she became a Saturday Night Live writer and cast member.

In 2016, Jones hit the big screen, starring in the allfemale remake of Ghostbusters.

While attending college, Jones worked several odd jobs including being a cook, waitress, cashier, assistant to a judge, receptionist, and perfume salesperson, but comedy kept calling her. She returned to Los Angeles and performed at The Comedy Store, the legendary comedy club in West Hollywood, but her act bombed. Jones didn’t let the deflating experience stop her, and she went on to open for Jamie Foxx. She bombed again and this time the audience even booed her. Foxx’s advice was that she had

to live her life. “He told me, ‘You’re like 18. You don’t have anything to talk about.’” Jones said in an interview with People magazine. “Go get a job, go get fired, go get your heart broken and go break some hearts.’”

She took a day job at UPS, but continued to work on her comedy craft at clubs around Los Angeles. “When I started out, I just wanted to go into a club and hold my own,” Jones said of her early days. “There were only a few women out. I wanted to be that one woman who would come out and everyone would love.”

Eventually she started to land film, TV and commercials roles including appearances in the TV shows In the House, Coach, Snap Judgment, Malcolm and Eddie and Girlfriends.

She also continued to make a name for herself in the comedy world, again learning to use her height as part of her act. “I know I’m fly—don’t get me wrong,” she said an interview with The New Yorker. “But I don’t look, like,

standard Hollywood. As a comedian, it’s something you learn to use.”

She performed at the Just for Laughs Montreal Comedy Festival, the Aspen Comedy Festival, on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend and Laffapalooza – Urban Comedy Arts Festival, BET’s The Way We Do It and Comicview and HBO’s Def Comedy Jam. She also landed roles in Martin Lawrence’s comedy National Security (2003), Gangsta Rap: The Glockumentary (2007), Lottery Ticket (2010) and Top Five (2014), which was written and directed by and starring Chris Rock. It was Rock who suggested to Lorne Michaels, the creator and executive producer of Saturday Night Live, that he should audition Jones, who Rock called “the funniest woman I know.”

Courtesy of www.Biography.com PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 17

FEATURE

TAKING THE LEAD

DONALD BELL A LEADER IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY I

have purchased and leased a number of cars in the last 28 years I have lived in America and almost every time except one, I felt violated in some way or other. What’s your experience? I am willing to bet that there were times you felt the same way. It pissed you off didn’t it - you asked yourself, “how can I be spending so much money and yet be treated like I am asking for a handout? There are two industries from which we make our largest purchases, the Real Estate industry and the Auto Industry and they both come with the caveat – Buyer Beware!

So I learned very quickly that the key to a great buying experience is identifying a strong, reputable company and an equally strong, reputable Sales professional, finding that combination, especially in New York, is not easy. My life’s work is helping others find theirs, because of that, I have been privileged not just to meet but also to do business with some of the finest people and companies one could ever imagine. In the Auto Industry Crown Ford is one of the finest and most reputable car companies in the Tri- State area, but I would not know that until I was introduced to Mr. Donald Bell who represents Crown Ford in our community.

As soon I got to know Donald, I became aware of the great expertise and knowledge he possessed in the Auto Industry, but more importantly I learned how reputable and ethical he is. What I also discovered was his passion to help his community overcome many of the barriers to owning or leasing a car, truck, van, crossover, new, pre-owned, whether its for personal or commercial use. One of the main barriers is credit and since the recent housing crisis, that problem has more than doubled, so, foreclosures, income, employment and down payment are some of the other barriers that

18 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

Donald is more than qualified to deal with, he As the Founder of Whereitzat Magazine and is a finance whiz.

Clive Williams Connections, I have vetted scores of suppliers/vendors and I personally Just so you know, my company does business do business with the cream of the crop. There with Donald and Crown Ford, so I speak from are leaders in every industry and the key to a personal experience, I was treated like royalty, successful transaction is dealing with those there was no pressure, no haggling, and no leaders; they are cut from a different cloth, tension, at no time during my transaction did they are confident, helpful, informative and I feel uncomfortable. My only regret was that supportive. Buying or leasing a vehicle is a major didn’t I do business with Donald and Crown financial expense and you deserve to be taken Ford much earlier, after all they have been seriously and given optimal service, you deserve advertisers for several years now and many of the very best and I am pleased to introduce you my readers keep singing their praises. to DONALD BELL a real leader in the Auto In my role as a Journalist I was curious as to Industry. why both Donald and the company he worked Call Donald Bell Wk. 516 405 2130 / Cell 516 for was so ethical, professional and easy to work 320 5067 with, so I asked him. His reply was candid but thoughtful, “Crown Ford is built on Respect, Courtesy and Service and I have to reflect those qualities in all my transactions with its customers.” I went on to ask Donald what has made him a clear leader in the auto industry?

His response proved he is a real leader, “I taught myself to become a good listener, therefore it makes me able to assist people to get what they want, not what I think they must have. I am stable in my profession, I don’t jump around, my clients know where to find me. I am also consistent, my client can rely on me to respond to their needs and I make every effort to stay humble and grounded.”

Donald Bell is very passionate about providing information and great service, he says that his Caribbean background allows him to understand the unique needs of a wide variety of immigrants, especially the first time buyer, the nurse, the student and the van operator who may need commercial vans or trucks.

Because of this he has learned every facet of his business in order to provide every buyer/lessee a comprehensive service.

FEATURE

TAKING THE LEAD

A

Travelling the World With The Reggae Chefs®

Ivey and The Reggae Chefs attracted a mixed audience from both cultures; colorfully clad in kente- inspired clothing and eager to consume what The Reggae Chefs had to offer.

The Braata Folk singers represented Jamaica in their cultural traditional attire as they sang folk songs and made the audience laugh out loud. Ghana’s Cultural Ambassadors sang and danced to Ghanaian drummers. The Reggae Chefs’ even managed to have a Ghanaian chief in attendance dressed regally in traditional Kente. Also in attendance were well known community leaders such as The Honorable Dr. Una S.T. Clarke and Dr. Waldaba Stewart.

The League of International Chefs Association (TLICA) presented the following awards at SCATTEREDJAMAICA-GHANA; Ms. Ama Bisi-Community Liason (Community Award) Who are “They”? They are The Reggae Chefs®, Mr. Kofi Ayim-Editor/Author (media award) a group of Jamaicans led by Founder and CEO and Dr. Clive Williams-Publisher (Business Peter Ivey. Since 2013 they have provided their Award). The night’s honorees gave inspirational clients a personalized all-inclusive experience by and educational speeches with regard to the theme. pairing Jamaican food with cultural activities The menu consisted of Ghanaian cuisine laid and/or entertainment. Now three (3) years out next to a comparable Jamaican dish for the later they have added Scattered Jamaica and the Scattered Jamaica-Passport Dinner Series™ to their list of services. live rendition of The Jamaican National Anthem rang out in the cool night air from loud speakers on Flatbush Avenue, on Saturday July 16th, followed by The National anthem of Ghana. The audience stood both times and applauded. The stage was set for what’s to come. They called it SCATTEREDJAMAICA®GHANA. They said it was going to be an experience, and it was. They said they would collect boarding passes and take us on a culinary and cultural flight to explore similarities and differences between Ghana and Jamaica, and they did. They said they would delight their guests with performances and notable speakers from both cultures and of course a carefully selected menu to stimulate conversation, and that happened too.

Scattered Jamaica is an ambitious project by The Reggae Chefs to travel to as many destinations as possible seeking culinary and cultural similarities between Jamaica and the world. Once they’re home, the stories of adventure, discovery and food, play out in their Passport Dinner Series.

The Passport Dinner Series are designed to give the feel of being transported to the destination with airline verbiage and even boarding passes for access to the events.

guests to taste and compare both items. Jollof Rice met Jamaican season rice, Goat stew met Curry Goat, Bofrut met fry dumplings and on and on went the interesting pairings.

“The ScatteredJamaica™ project is our way of keeping The Reggae Chefs authentic and true to our roots and The Passport Dinner Series allows us to do what we set out to do in the first place, tell stories and keep Jamaica pon di map fi all di right reasons”, says Ivey.

What makes ScatteredJamaica and the Passport Dinner Series truly special and unique is the educational element that it possesses. For every culture that is showcased in their dinner series The Reggae Chefs have travelled to the location, immersed themselves in the culture and return with images and videos of their findings.

The videos can be found on their YouTube channel. The Reggae Chefs are already planning their next event, SCATTEREDJAMAICAUK, this fall. Reserve early because you do not want to miss this flight!

S C AT T E R E D J A M A I C A GHANA was Co-sponsored by Canei Wines, Amandla Newspaper, The Flatbush Caton- Market and The Caribbean –American Leadership Foundation.

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 19

SPORTS & CULTURE

MOMENTS GOLF CLASSIC

Teeing up a fantastic future!

M

oments Golf Club has consistently dedicated the resources of its members to the betterment of the youth in our diverse urban communities, with the provision of scholarships to ensure ongoing educational development and excellence. The name Moments though synonymous with time, is literally the name of the establishment that gave birth to a golf club that is now distinguished by its altruism.

By Clive Williams Photos by Carlton Mitchell & Clive Williams

Club expand its mentorship to Kids who have an interest in the game; I have personally experienced seeing the (almost) complete transformation that takes place in a child’s life once they play the game of life – Golf.

Tuesday, July 17, 2016 was a sensational day in every respect. The weather, Lido Golf Club and its management, the incredible group of faithful professional and business people who turned out For almost a decade Moments Golf Club has to play and payback; Moments Golf Club and been awarding these scholarships to young (the stars of the event) those young scholars who men and women, understanding very well that received over $10,000 in scholarship money education is the most valuable investment they all conspired to make the day a truly spectacular can make in the lives of our young. The weather and unforgettable one for all participants. could not possibly be better on Tuesday, July The golfers, to a man, whether they won or 17 at the picturesque Lido Beach Golf Club in lost, had a fine time, the food was good and Long Beach. Well known for its friendly and plenty and beers flowed like the waters from professional staff, Lido Golf Club delivers every the Bay. The Whereitzat team looks forward to time with courtesy, good food and unhesitating covering this outstanding philanthropic event helpfulness. Its never easy or wise to single out again next year. The better photos of the event people for kudos but this time I will take the were shot by Mr. Carlton Mitchell, Moments risk because they are worthy; so thank you for Golf Club member, who is shaping up to be making us feel welcome and appreciated – Steve a better photographer than golfer; problem is, Rofrano, PGA Director and Cindy Christou, I don’t know if he could make a living from Director of sales & Marketing. You guys get it, either. Carlton, you know I can’t resist kidding you make your guests feel welcome.

you, you are a mensch brother, thank you for the fine photographs, I know you made every effort to improve the appearance of some of our buddies; I didn’t expect miracles but thanks for trying. I have faithfully reproduced some of those pictures, some will read and weep, others will enjoy, such, is the game of golf and life.

Mark Smith of State Farm fame is also famous for his organizational skills in putting Golf Tournaments together and this was another winner. He is the first to say he didn’t do it alone and we appreciate his humility, but Mark (I can’t resist the pun) has made his mark as an organizer and facilitator par excellence.

The president of Moments Golf Club, Walter Johnson an esteemed gentleman and (evolving) golfer has done an outstanding job in ensuring that the Clubs mission to create future leaders is not obscured by the game itself.

This writer would love to see Moments Golf 20 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

SPORTS & CULTURE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 21

THE STERLING GROUP INC

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS/PERSONAL TAX PREPARATION

PATRICK A. STERLING BS, MS Email: psterlingp@yahoo.com

Tel: 917-250-1746 / 516-442-3312 / Fax: 516-442-3311

BUSINESS TAXES

Incorporation of new businesses: ‘S’ Corporation Status / ‘C’ Corporation Status

Filing : 1120, LLC, Partnership • Sole Proprietorship • Sales Tax • 941 Quarterly Taxes Business Dissolution Income Statements Balance Sheets Small Business Accounting Bookkeeping Audits – Reviews – Compilations Tax Planning, Preparation and Compliance IRS Representation

PERSONAL TAXES 1040 / 1040A / 1040EZ ITIN Filing Schedule ‘C’ All State Taxes IRS Representation

22 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 23

CULTURE & EMPOWERMENT

O

INTELLIGENTSIA MEETS DANCEHALL

n August 20, 2016 from 4-10 pm, Jamaican born attorney Audrey A. Thomas, Esq. will release her third book at York College in Queens, entitled “DOES GOD HATE HOMOSEXUALS? NO GOD CANNOT HATE…..!

Mrs. Thomas’ event is as diverse and eclectic as her biography, in that, Audrey A. Thomas, Esq. is a solid Christian, the mother of nine, an inspirational speaker, radio show host, author, TV personality and is a prominent New York Attorney that boasts many accolades and awards both inside and outside of the courtroom.

However, prior to becoming “New York’s Top Lawyer,” Mrs. Thomas, dropped out of high school and earned a General Equivalency Diploma; gave birth to her first child at age 15; was the victim of rape and molestation; was a victim of domestic violence and; was a marijuana smoking dance hall regular.

never come. I need to discuss the possibility of Hip Hop Artistes, Stakk Citi Mayehem, Bri balancing the scale of justice against upholding the Butta and Wild. cross of religious conviction.”

The intellectual discussion will be lead by Gail August 20, 2016 marks the 31st anniversary Lewis, M.A., and the panelists will include of the birth of Audrey Thomas’ son who was Suzie Q of Video Alley, Attorneys, Cheryl Kates delivered when she was age 15. Hence, the date Benman, Mark A. Crawford, Delmas A. Costin, of the event is symbolic.

Jr., Steve Metcalf, II, and Nanette Ida Buoneto, Licensed Funeral Director Patrice B. Miller and Like prior years, Mrs. Thomas and the other the incomparable Sharon Gordon of CPRLIVE. members of TEHRS, Inc. will honor several ORG. prominent members of the community who lend themselves to community service. Past The TEHRS organizers insist that this event recipients of the TEHRS Humanitarian is not about homosexuality in as much as it is Awards have been, Honorable Charles Joseph about preserving justice.

Hynes; Supreme Court Justices William Miller, Evelyn Laporte, Shawndya Simpson; Attorneys Mrs. Thomas believes that injustice anywhere Elon Harpaz, Andrew Stoll, Douglas Rankin, threatens justice everywhere. Therefore, she urges Damien Brown, Stuart Rubin, Jay Schweitzman, you to come as you are and leave empowered!

Jaime Santana, Stefani Zinerman; Drs. Collie Oudkerk, and Timothy Jayasundera; Empire Bailbonds; Gill and Pat Bailey; FutureGrads; Inc.; Garfield Lyttle; Sheryl Ritch, Heloise Smith, Burton Buchanan, and Leroy Coleman of Brooklyn Boys Inc.

Therefore, as Mrs. Thomas puts it, intelligentsia must always meet dance hall as a reminder that we are all necessary and the child you are today This book release and empowerment concert is is not necessarily the person you will become. essentially a celebration of public service. The In fact, when asked what prompted this year’s books themselves are thought provoking and book title, Mrs. Thomas, gave a confident smile profound. Your Eyes Can’t See My Heart, that revealed her “symbol of happiness” her one White Men Aren’t Chumps and this year’s book dimple, and stated without equivocation, “I am forces us to reflect and dream of what has been not lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, or transgender. In fact, and what we can do to preserve and or shape I am a Christian, Jamaican-American. But, since what will become our future. when do we have to agree with someone to defend them from injustice? I gave birth to my first child at age 15 and I am intimately familiar with the pangs of random acts of public wickedness. Therefore, I wrote the book to find an absolution that may 24 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

The Artistes that are slated to perform on August 20, 2016 are equally diverse. There will be gospel great Joseph Bonner formerly known as Spanner Banner; Jamaican soul singers Philip Fraser and Lukie D; Reggae Artiste DAJAH and

4pm - 10pm

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 25

URBAN CULTURE

Zeitgeist: Police Actions and the Systemic Creation of Black Fear

By Nesta

A

s I sit here pondering what to write in this

contribute to their misdeeds.

article and surfing the Internet, I stumble on an article where police officers providing security at a WNBA basketball match in Minnesota walk off the job because players were wearing Black Lives Matter t-shirts. The article brought me back to a similar incident more than a year ago, where police of the NYPD, showed utter disdain and disrespect for the city’s Mayor by turning their backs and refusing to salute him because he had criticized some of their actions.

I truly believe that not holding senior leaders accountable for the actions of those under their command will do nothing to affect any meaningful change or positive reform, and we will continue to see cases of police misconduct. How many investigations into police misconduct have we seen where senior officials are held accountable? I suspect not many. So, is it a surprise that police officers continue to act the way they do?

These incidents illustrate how thin-skinned, disrespectful and combative the police departments have become over the years. Now that video evidence of their wrong doing is coming to light, on what seems like a daily basis and public criticism has risen, their reaction to the criticism has gotten worse. But while many criticize them, they have no shortage of defenders in certain public officials and news media outlets.

The Marine Corps provides a stark contrast in the conduct of investigating their own to how the

No longer can they hide their lawlessness behind walls of deceit and lies. And when they are caught and are criticized, their leaders and unions ‘circle the wagons” around them, and embark on a “scorchedearth” tactic against anyone who dares to speak. The blue wall of protection goes up. These proponents of the police lack emotional parity, or reason, when their police do wrong. I can understand how one can admire police, but I don’t see how one can admire bad policing.

Once police officers are negligent in discharging their duties, they should be investigated, not by their own department’s Internal Affairs (IA), because this investigative body is made up of police officers. This is akin to the “fox guarding the hen house.” An independent counsel similar to the one used by the federal government should conduct all investigations. If officers are found guilty they should be prosecuted and or terminated for cause.

Investigations should also look for systemic and systematic failures of the departments and hold their leaders accountable. It’s not enough to just rid the department of the violators, because they usually operate under a command culture that condone or 26 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

Police investigate themselves. I spent 21 years in the Marines, and we took care of our own, BUT we took care of the truth first and foremost. We had a saying “don’t be the last man standing with a secret.”

Meaning if your Marines violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) we didn’t protect them, because if you were found to be complicit in your Marine’s misconduct, you could be charged as an accessory. It wasn’t that we were “ratting out” anyone. We were standing for the rule of law. I used to tell my Marines that if they violated the articles of the UCMJ and I knew about it, I had one choice— the law. It has always seemed like an easy choice for me. Everyone knew the rules, the consequences of their actions. But we also took it a step further, we made sure we “policed” our Marines and kept them from even getting close to any line we didn’t want them to cross. That is what accountability is all about.

This leads me to the so-called “good cops” of which I am sure there are many, they do what they are

supposed to do and do it well. But if you are one of those and you see your partners or colleagues doing wrong and you turn a blind eye - YOU are NOT a good cop. You are an enabler, a weakling and a fraud. If you know your department is instructing officers to target Black or Hispanic people and you comply, you are a coward. It’s easy for people to say how brave cops are, but courage is not only seen when one reacts to danger, courage is required to stand for what is morally right—the risk of losing your status for doing what’s right, making sure your partner doesn’t get close to, or cross that line, and speaking truth to power. That is the courage I would like to see more of from the police. If you see your fellow officers doing stupid things, breaking the law they swore to enforce, applying those laws unequally and you remain silent, you are not only part of the problem--you are the problem!!!

Let me go back to the cops walking off the job in Minnesota. First, they were not working in their official capacity as police officers, but they were still wearing the uniform of their departments, which would tell anyone entering that area that these officers had authority and jurisdiction. However, they were the only security there, so what would’ve happened if there was a serious incident, say an active shooter or an act of terror, which they could have prevented just by their presence? How does walking away from your commitment make you brave? All because you were offended by some people exercising their rights to call attention to an issue that they were passionate about. Don’t cops provide security for KKK rallies, gay pride rallies, even when they may not agree with, or like the group’s platform?

I would like to know where is the honor in your actions? You all acted like a bunch of unprofessional, thinned-skinned nitwits. And there lies the problem that I have. You are not fit to wear the uniform, to be trusted to serve the public and apply its laws. If you are offended by a bunch of people wearing Black Lives Matter (BLM) t-shirts, you are hotheads and have no business being entrusted with the awesome and serious responsibilities - protecting and serving.

Continues on page 28...

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 27

URBAN CULTURE Zeitgeist: Police Actions and the Systemic Creation of Black Fear

...Continued from page 26 Shouldn’t we expect much more from our police?

Let me ask what is it about BLM that is so offensive to these police officers who walked off their jobs, and to those citizens who denigrate the movement?

Should black people sit on their hands and just turn a blind eye to the police disregard for black people’s lives? Should you not be more offended that your colleague supposedly panicked and murdered an innocent black man because the black man had the temerity to be legally carrying gun, his 2nd Amendment right. Should you not be offended that two rogue cops in Louisiana automatically presumed that Alton Sterling was an existential threat the moment they arrived on scene? Shouldn’t you be offended that they had their knees pinning down his arms yet still maintained that he tried to pull his gun? Shouldn’t you be offended that they executed him as they did Philando Castile because he had the audacity to possess a (legal) firearm while black?

None of this is new, it’s been happening for decades.

Shouldn’t you be trying to shift the paradigm, so black people won’t be fearful when they interact with you. Or maybe this is how you like it? Maybe you all like that there are tensions. Maybe you are a part of broader, a more sinister plan to make all black people fearful of police, that way you can “keep them in their place.” Here’s why I make this statement. Watching a news program yesterday some black folks were asked how they would interact with cops if they get pulled over in the future, to that virtually all of them said, they would be using highly deferential language such as “yes sir, “no sir,” and also making sure they didn’t look officers in the eyes and so on. Unbelievable!!

Is this the 1800s and 1900s all over again, when black people had to avert their eyes from white people, when we had to address them as “sirs” and “ma’am’s?” Can you see how easily this could snowball into black people being once again subservient? I am of the belief that this recent spike in the reckless murdering of black people by law enforcement is a part of a broader strategy to drive fear into the minds

of all black people, especially young black men, and if movements such as Black Lives Matter fail or cower to fear, there is a real possibility we may end up in a new Jim Crow society or something worse.

There are already forces at work trying to conflate the killing of the five Dallas police officers to the BLM movement - scapegoating. Remember that scapegoating was a well-known tactic of Nazi Germany in their early days. The slogan of the Republican Party presidential nominee is “Make America Great Again.” Understand that in the eyes of many of this nominee’s supporters, America was great when black people were being set upon by dogs, had no real place in society, no voice, segregated in every aspect of life and considered sub humans. It would come as no surprise to me if the Black Lives Matter organization isn’t designated a terrorist movement, if, by some misfortune, this Republican nominee gets elected. Remember Marley’s words: “give them an inch they take a mile.”

Be warned and informed!

BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY Are There Any Benefits in Using Social Media Marketing for Your Business?

L

ike the fax machine of the 1980s and email of the 2000s, Social media marketing has gone from being a “business option” to being a “business essential”, but you still have time to get ahead of your competitors. I get asked almost on a daily basis to explain why a business should be on social media. My answer is always the same… Yes! Compared to traditional marketing methods, social media marketing is the most cost effective way to promote your business, product or service. There are countless benefits to using social media marketing campaigns to promote your business, whether you want to gain a huge online following, build brand recognition, increase online sales, increase your local customer base or become a household name. With social media the sky is the limit.

To get you to really understand how social media marketing can help your business I put together the following for you to think about.

28 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

By Desiree Briceno

The main benefits of running Social Media Marketing Campaigns are: Enhancing your trustworthiness You will see an increase in your website conversion rates.

The amount of website traffic (or visitors) compared to the number of sales (or leads) you get is called the sales conversion ratio. If you monitor this ratio before and after installing an embedded Twitter feed, you should see it improve. People are reassured by the presence of a regularly updated Twitter feed on a website (hours, not days). It shows professionalism, authority and clearly displays that your site is “open for business”.

Brand recognition and repeat exposure Your social media followers or browsers are in an environment that they are comfortable in. It is the very best place for you to place your brand and have them take notice. It is said of traditional advertising that a potential customer has to see your advertisement seven times before

Desiree Briceno Social Media Management P: 347.857.5124 E: desyrbriceno@gmail.com

taking any action. This is your opportunity to get your brand under their noses without being pushy.

Getting ahead of your competitors Do your competitors use social media? Most of your competitors will probably not be doing a good job of embracing social media, so this is your chance to race ahead. If they are engaging well in the social networks, then you must get involved or you risk being left behind and losing your audience to your competition. Your potential customers or clients are engaging in social media personally, whether you like it or not. When visiting a website they expect to find a social media presence and may judge you if there isn’t one or even worse if they find one that hasn’t been updated for weeks or months.

Next column we’ll discuss how to Grow your marketing power and more.

A change for the better

Over time, the world changes and technologies evolve.

At AT&T, innovation and service is strengthened by the diversity of our employees, suppliers and customers.

Because change is better when everyone works together.

AT&T is proud of our colleague, Brandon V. Ray, for being honored with a Business Innovators & Game-Changers Award for his commitment to community service and congratulates all the other esteemed award winners.

Š 2016 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved.

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 29

URBAN COMMUNITY

Urban Gardens

By Glenise Gomez

T

he pace at which we live in NYC often robs us of the opportunities to appreciate the simple wonders of nature, plants, gardens, animals, butterflies and all of nature’s varieties. So when that opportunity presents itself, it’s a source of real joy. Recently, while WhereItzAt publisher Mr. Clive Williams and I were on our way to an appointment, I was enjoying the scenery from the passenger side as he made a stop. On my right I said hello to an older gentleman who was calmly sitting in his garden listening to music.

Mr. Alvaranga has been a NYC resident for over 40 years and has always maintained his love for gardening, specializing in Callaloo and Scotch bonnet farming.

Owning a small garden was common in the Caribbean and certainly an exception in Urban America, especially where there is limited space.

The prevalence of genetically modified foods is so insidious, we can no longer guarantee exactly what is in our foods, how fresh it is or even how substantial it will be after modification and storage. We consume wax, ethylene gases and The garden is an oasis in the city. The abundance formaldehyde as the new normal. Planting our of vegetables and greenery was so inviting. I was own fruits and vegetables for self-sustenance introduced to Mr. Alvaranga, a charming man should be mandatory. who happens to be a Jamaican native. His love for gardening derived from his father’s dedication to His invitation to tour the garden was an gardening which helped to support the family. honor especially since he has been supplying Mr. Williams with quality produce for years.

30 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

I remembered to not touch anything and to respect his space. Scotch bonnet peppers were bearing new fruit. August jerk seasoning will be hardcore heat. Juicy tomatoes slowly ripening in the sun. I remember eating them off the staked vine in my mom’s garden back in Trinidad. Highlight! Amazingly lush callaloo.

Now I know this as spinach, but in Jamaica its callaloo, where it remains a top breakfast choice. Often paired with salt fish and seasoned with onions, tomatoes and scotch bonnet it’s one of my favorite breakfast foods alongside roasted breadfruit or boiled green bananas. The nutritional content is amazing! This may just be the spinach that Popeye the sailorman endorsed.

Congratulations on an amazing garden Alva.

We Thank Mr. Segis Alvaranga for Access to his Garden.

H AV E Y O U E V E R C R AV E D S P I C E S N E G R I L F O O D AT L U N C H T I M E ?

NOW YOU CAN FEED THAT CRAVING. OUR TAKE-OUT SECTION IS OPEN RIGHT NEXT DOOR WITH DELICIOUS FOOD.

CALL 516-279-6988 TO PLACE YOUR ORDER!

LIVE BAND EVERY FRIDAY|DJ EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT SUNDAY BRUNCH|SUNDAY KARAOKE! CALL 516-279-6988 TO MAKE RESERVATIONS text SPICESNEGRIL to 33733 to join our MOBILE CLUB & get exclusive discounts & invitations

F R E EI N PA R K I N G REAR PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 31

"A gem in the jewel encrusted neighborhood of Westbury."- WhereItzAt Magazine 170 Post Ave, Westbury, NY 11590 (516) 338-4933

32 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 33

IF YOU FIND THIS INFORMATION AS LIFE-CHANGING AND POWERFUL AS I DID – TAKE THE FOLLOWING STEPS:

STEP 1 - LISTEN TO THIS RECORDED #: 1-701-801-3088 STEP 2 - VISIT WWW.NOUPFRONTMONEY.COM THEN PLEASE CALL ME ASAP AT 1-800-823-2093 34 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 35

36 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 37

38 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 39

40 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 41

42 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE

PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 43

44 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE