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N E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N EN E W S M A G A Z I N E

Continued on page 14Continued on page 26

The Majestic Event Center, known asMajestic, recently opened their 22,000square foot event center on John

Young Parkway. This new venue now of-fers two large ballroom with a capacity forup to 2500 people. With a built in kitchenthis event center is a dream come true forcaterers with large parties and people whohave an event that needs to seat 500 peoplebut would like to retain the culinary de-

lights of their own caterer. Majestic is inthe building popularly known as theformer Tropical Magic Restaurant andmany turned out with fond memories ofevents in the previous space and werestunned at the transformation that hadtaken place in the building.

The opening celebration or inauguration assome people suggested, was attended by

Majestic, Central Florida’sMajestic, Central Florida’sMajestic, Central Florida’sMajestic, Central Florida’sMajestic, Central Florida’snewest Banquet Facilitynewest Banquet Facilitynewest Banquet Facilitynewest Banquet Facilitynewest Banquet Facility

and Event Centerand Event Centerand Event Centerand Event Centerand Event CenterJJJJJ anuary 12, 2012 was

the second anniversaryof the horrendous Hai-

tian earthquake – one ofthe most terrible naturaldisasters ever to afflictmankind. In approxi-mately 35 seconds on Jan12, 2010 the malevolentearthquake ripped throughthe Haitian capital Port-au-Prince, leaving death,destruction and tragedy onan epic scale in its impiousand unfeeling wake. Somethree hundred thousandpeople were killed, someimmediately, but manydied horribly protracteddeaths after much excruci-ating pain.

Thousands of children andadults alike were hid-eously maimed by fallingbuildings or buried be-neath rubble; limbs werecrushed like flies with aflagrant and callous impu-nity. Whole families, wholestreets and whole commu-nities were erased in aninstant. And perhaps thosewere the lucky ones. Manythousands of childrenwere orphaned. 1.5 millionpeople were left homeless.

2 years on:2 years on:2 years on:2 years on:2 years on:Haiti, Lest WeHaiti, Lest WeHaiti, Lest WeHaiti, Lest WeHaiti, Lest We

Forget...Forget...Forget...Forget...Forget...By Lindsay Johns

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Dragon ParadeSunday, February 5

11am - 3pm (Parade starts at 11am)Mills 50 - Orlando Mainstreet District634 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803Colonial Photo & Hobby parking lot

SAVE THE DATE!!

Lunar New Year Festival 2012

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GGR Marketing & Public Relations1230 Hillcrest Street, Orlando, FL 32803

407-427-1800 • guenetroberts@yahoo.comFor Media Information email: capnewsmagazine@yahoo.com

Copyright (C) 2010 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

L I F E S T Y L E Guenet Gittens-Roberts,Publisher/Editor

Publisher ........................................................... Guenet Gittens-RobertsEditor .............................................................................Audrey JohnsonContributing Writers: ..................................................... Natasha Gittens........................................................................................ Phillip Browne

. .................................. ................................................... Roger Caldwell................................................................................ Nouchelle Hastings

Contributing Photographers ........................................ Gregory Griffith................................................................................... .Colleen Matthias

Distribution.................................................................... Samuel Roberts

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In preparing for this January issue, I wanted to include anarticle about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. after doing my re-search (because remember I grew up in Guyana, not here

in the US, so my American History is not at the tip of my brain).I was blown away by the realities of African Americans in theSouth 50 years ago with the strides being made in the Carib-bean. During my research I researched Rosa Parks and her re-fusal to give up her seat on the bus and subsequent arrest whichsparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Parks’ act of defiancebecame an important symbol of the modern Civil Rights Move-ment and Parks became an international icon of resistance toracial segregation. She organized and collaborated with civilrights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr., helping to launchhim to national prominence in the civil rights movement.

At the same time that Americans in the South were facing seg-regation, and feelings of inferiority, Caribbean people inGuyana were two years into rule under the PPP Governmentbefore Jagan and Burnham split into two separate parties, inJamaica, Norman Manley had formed the People’s NationalParty since 1938 and a few years later his cousin AlexanderBustamante spun off of that party and formed the JamaicaLabor Party. In Trinidad and Tobago, the 1956 general elec-tions saw the emergence of the People’s National Movementunder the leadership of Eric Williams. Six years after thatTrinidad & Tobago achieved full independence in August 1962during that same month in Jamaica, Independence wasachieved as well.

While Caribbean people were seeing their own races, leading,fighting and setting their own destinies, in 1963, Dr. King wrote

the following in a letter from an Alabama prison “We havewaited for more than 340 years for our constitutional and God-given rights. The nations of Asia and Africa are moving withjetlike speed toward gaining political independence, but westiff creep at horse-and-buggy pace toward gaining a cup ofcoffee at a lunch counter. Perhaps it is easy for those who havenever felt the stinging darts of segregation to say, “Wait.” Butwhen you have seen vicious mobs lynch your mothers and fa-thers at will and drown your sisters and brothers at whim; whenyou have seen hate-filled policemen curse, kick and even killyour black brothers and sisters; when you see the vast majorityof your twenty million Negro brothers smothering in an air-tight cage of poverty in the midst of an affluent society; whenyou suddenly find your tongue twisted and your speech stam-mering as you seek to explain to your six-year-old daughterwhy she can’t go to the public amusement park that has justbeen advertised on television, and see tears welling up in hereyes when she is told that Funtown is closed to colored chil-dren, and see ominous clouds of inferiority beginning to formin her little mental sky....when you are harried by day andhaunted by night by the fact that you are a Negro, living con-stantly at tiptoe stance, never quite knowing what to expectnext, and are plagued with inner fears and outer resentments;when you go forever fighting a degenerating sense of“nobodiness”-then you will understand why we find it difficultto wait. There comes a time when the cup of endurance runsover, and men are no longer willing to be plunged into theabyss of despair. I hope, sirs, you can understand our legiti-mate and unavoidable impatience.”

Dr. King went on to say in that same letter “Oppressed peoplecannot remain oppressed forever. The yearning for freedom even-tually manifests itself, and that is what has happened to theAmerican Negro. Something within has reminded him of hisbirthright of freedom, and something without has reminded himthat it can be gained. Consciously or unconsciously, he has beencaught up by the Zeitgeist, and with his black brothers of Africaand his brown and yellow brothers of Asia, South America andthe Caribbean, the United States Negro is moving with a senseof great urgency toward the promised land of racial justice.”

As we live here in America with our American neighbors, it isimportant that while we celebrate the accomplishments suchas the 50th Anniversary of Independence that we’ll be celebrat-ing this year for Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago, we remem-ber to celebrate the achievements made right here in the UnitedStates by pioneers like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Has Governor ScottHas Governor ScottHas Governor ScottHas Governor ScottHas Governor ScottForgotten Who HeForgotten Who HeForgotten Who HeForgotten Who HeForgotten Who He

Works for?Works for?Works for?Works for?Works for?

Governor Scott is sticking tohis platform, and he is re-fusing millions of dollars

from the federal government. Fromthe very beginning of his term,Scott refused to approve a $2.3 bil-lion high speed rail that was 90%funded by the federal government.His decisions continue to crippleand devastate Floridians, and the

residents remain quiet.

Governor Scott has a conservative agenda and his administra-tion has refused to go after $106 million in federal grant moneyand returned millions of allocated federal money to the state ofFlorida. He has also ordered state agencies to reject any moneytied to President Obama’s health care plan. There is federalmoney available to help Floridians, and our governor is too stub-born to accept needed funding to help balance the budget.

Instead of balancing the budget and providing poor and sickFloridians with financial support and services, our governor isslashing money for hospitals. Governor Scott is also laying offstate workers, and forcing public employees to pay 3% of theirsalaries to cover part of their pension costs. I was always underthe impression that the elected governor of a state was in thatposition to help and support the residents.

From Governor Scott’s point of view, he believes he has done agreat job this year. Just recently, Florida has lost its bid to win$100 million to boost the care and education of young chil-dren. This program would have helped childcare children pre-pare for formal schooling by offering better preschool programs.

There were many childcare supporters in Florida, who wereexcited about the federal funding program and would haveused the funding to improve childcare programs for high-riskchildren. “With Florida’s dismal ranking on almost every indi-cator of child well-being, $100 million would have gone a longway to improve the quality of early childhood services,” saidMimi Graham, director of the Center for Prevention & EarlyIntervention Policy at Florida State University.

In 2010 under Governor Crist, Florida won $700 million in thefirst Race to the Top competition, which funds public educationreforms. But this year under the direction of Governor Scott, hestated that the state would accept money from the federal grantprogram if “no federal strings” were attached to the funding.

Somewhere there is a disconnect with our governor and thefederal government funding. When there is an opportunity toreceive federal government funding, it would make sense forthe governor and his administration to follow the proceduresto qualify for the money. Instead, it appears that the governorwants to dictate the terms of the funding, and tell the govern-ment how they will spend the money.

Our governor is forgetting that there is a hierarchy in the gov-ernment bureaucracy, and the federal government is morepowerful than the states. Governor Scott also tends to forgetthat the voters put him into office, and he works for the people.

By Roger Caldwell

“Wuh ain’ see you, ain’ pass you.”“Wuh ain’ see you, ain’ pass you.”“Wuh ain’ see you, ain’ pass you.”“Wuh ain’ see you, ain’ pass you.”“Wuh ain’ see you, ain’ pass you.”(Just because you got away with(Just because you got away with(Just because you got away with(Just because you got away with(Just because you got away with

something so far does not mean thatsomething so far does not mean thatsomething so far does not mean thatsomething so far does not mean thatsomething so far does not mean thatit won’t catch up with you later)it won’t catch up with you later)it won’t catch up with you later)it won’t catch up with you later)it won’t catch up with you later)

Whatever you do, VOTE in the 2014 midtermelection. Let’s get rid of this guy!

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Caribbean Nationals are key to tourism,Caribbean Nationals are key to tourism,Caribbean Nationals are key to tourism,Caribbean Nationals are key to tourism,Caribbean Nationals are key to tourism,Walter Elmore tells New YorkersWalter Elmore tells New YorkersWalter Elmore tells New YorkersWalter Elmore tells New YorkersWalter Elmore tells New Yorkers

Walter Elmore addresses the New York media. Photo by Margot Jordan

ister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett for taking the Diaspora seriously.“We pay tribute to our nationals for carrying the flag and shar-

ing the spirit of our homelandshere in America,” Elmore noted.

Artistes confirmed for the 2012 fes-tival include multi-platinum, five-time Grammy award-winningsinger Celine Dion, Kelly Rowland,Nicole Henry, Jully Black; andJamaica’s Shaggy and RichieStephens who both made a specialappearance at the New Yorklaunch.

In recognition of Jamaica’s 50th an-niversary of Independence, the en-tire Thursday night line-up will bededicated to the history of Jamai-can music with performances fromacross the various musical eras: ska,rocksteady, dub and reggae. OtherJamaicans scheduled to perform areToots Hibbert, John Holt, Yellow

Man and Half Pint.

For further information, visit www. jamaicajazzandblues.com

By Bevan Springer

Don’t be mistaken, warnsan experienced Carib-bean festival producer,

Caribbean Diaspora communi-ties drive tourism in the region,and also support the develop-ment of economies back home.

Speaking to journalists, editorsand community leaders at SiriusXM Satellite Radio studios in NewYork, Walter Elmore, chairman ofArt of Music Productions Limited,asserted that festival tourism was

key to Jamaica and the Caribbean region and that nationalsoverseas were key drivers of business not only to musical festi-vals, but to the whole region throughout the year.

“Just look at the turnout today - Caribbean people have comeout to find out what’s going on at home so they can make theirtravel plans as well as bring others along with them,” saidElmore who was in Manhattan for the New York City launchof the 16th annual Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival “The Art ofMusic”, a three-day celebration from January 26 to 28, 2012at the Greenfield Sta-dium in Trelawny.

Invoking a recent Univer-sity of the West Indiesstudy on “Strategic Op-portunities in CaribbeanMigration”, Walter ar-gued that Diaspora tour-ism was critically impor-tant to the Caribbean.“The researchers havecarefully documentedthat our nationals comehome for educational,medical cultural andmany other reasons andspend a lot of money withour telecommunicationscompanies and the air-lines,” said Elmore.

“We’re no longer guessing,” said Elmore. “It’s time for all Carib-bean countries to work more closely with their nationals in themarketplace,” he added, as he showered praise on Jamaica’s Min-

Shaggy (left) made a special appearance in New York on Friday.Here he chats with Walter Elmore of Art of Music Productions. Photograph

available at: www.tinyurl.com/walterelmore2

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Fourteen years ago, Florette Lawrence convinced the Ja-maican American Association of Central Florida to par-ticipate in a program called “Fresh Start”, a short-term

residential program designed to rebuild and restore the livesof men seeking a new beginning. She has been involved withfeeding them until now.

The season for sharing, caringand new beginnings

cal Jamaican-style meals such as curried chicken, jerkchicken, rice and peas, soups and salads, which Mrs.Lawrence said is well received by the residents. This pastHoliday Season she stepped it up a notch by offering gener-ous servings of ham and roast beef along with side dishes,including rice and peas, cooked and fresh vegetables, as wellas dessert and drinks.

Mrs. Lawrence has ten association members, including thechef, Trevor Wilson, who assist her with the preparation andserving of the meals. She utilizes the services of about sixpeople each time, as she says the facility is very small andcannot accommodate them all at the same time. Other as-sociation members are anxious to volunteer but her assis-tants are committed to the program and stay for the longterm. Kudos to Mrs. Lawrence, Mrs. Bulgin and the Jamai-can/American Association “crew” for caring and sharinghope this Holiday Season.

Outgoing Organization President Dennis Hall, who partici-pated in the holiday event, offered the following commenton the program:

“Fresh Start” is under the auspices of the Christian ServiceCenter, which provides short-term living accommodations,meals, a fully equipped kitchen and laundry. The programseeks to enable men, regardless of their previous circum-stances, to improve their situation and become more confi-dent and hopeful. It focuses on restoring dignity and provid-ing a safe environment for personal growth while giving mena second chance to get back on their feet. Participants in theprogram are required to work during the day or be in con-structive activities. In the evening, there are counseling ses-sions, Bible study, anger management classes as well as lifeskills courses.

The maximum number of participants in the facility at anyone time is twenty five (25), and the length of stay is threemonths to one year. Each individual’s participation is evalu-ated after one year to determine if they should continue inthe program. A fee of $25 is charged on entering the pro-gram, so that participants can show if they are committedto the program ideals. They are provided with three mealsper day, including a homemade evening meal which is pre-pared and served by volunteers from partnering churchesand organizations.

This is where Mrs. Lawrence, who came to Central Floridafrom St. Mary, Jamaica, and her “crew” from the Associa-tion, come in. Every three months Ms. Lawrence, along withside-kick Mrs. Cynthia Bulgin, coordinates and prepares typi-

“The Jamaican American Association of Central Florida Inc.,a 501(C)(3) organization has been involved in disaster andcommunity relief locally and internationally. As President ofthis organization I had the privilege on December 14th 2011,to witness first hand, community outreach at its best. I supportthis Fresh Start program very highly with much commenda-tion to Mrs. Florette Lawrence and her committee for making adifference in the lives of these men”.

The “Fresh Start” facility is located in downtown Orlandoat the Christian Services Center, 808 West Central Boule-vard, Orlando.

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By CMC

Jamaica Prime Minister- designate, Portia Simpson-Millerurged nationals to put aside their political difference andjoin her People’s National Party (PNP) administration in a

building a new Jamaica.

Simpson-Miller, the first ever woman to head a government inJamaica, led the PNP to a 41-22 thrashing of the incumbentJamaica Labour Party (JLP) in Thursday’s general election thatwas called one year ahead of the constitutional deadline, ac-cording to the preliminary results.

“This leader with her team will be working with all Jamaicansas one Jamaican family as we shape the future of Jamaicatogether,” she told supporters celebrating the party’s return topower after it was defeated in the 2007 general election.

In a victory speech interspersed with music, Simpson-Miller saidshe had already received congratulatory messages from out-going prime minister Andrew Holness and some leaders withinthe Caribbean Community (Caricom) grouping.

Holness, 39, the youngest ever head of government in Jamaica,now has the un-envious record of being the only prime minis-ter to serve one term in office since the island attained politicalindependence from Britain in 1962.

‘Starting tomorrow we will be rebuilding. Our campaign forthe next government starts tomorrow. We are determined toserve the people of the country in the best way possible.

‘It is clear to us however that the people of the country stillhave certain concerns apparently about the Jamaica LabourParty and we will be reflecting on those,” Holiness said in hisstatement conceding defeat.

Simpson-Miller 66, who served as prime minister from 2006-2007 when then prime minister PJ Patterson resigned from ac-tive politics, thanked “everybody who played a role in ensur-ing the PNP’s victory”.

“I am humbled by the support of the Jamaican people and Iask you to ensure that you greet Jamaica labour Party sup-

‘Sister P’ in power‘Sister P’ in power‘Sister P’ in power‘Sister P’ in power‘Sister P’ in powerJamaicans vote out govt 41-22Jamaicans vote out govt 41-22Jamaicans vote out govt 41-22Jamaicans vote out govt 41-22Jamaicans vote out govt 41-22

porters with love,” she added.

“I want to thank all the voters of Jamaica,” she said, addingthat they had “kept our democracy alive and well today”.

Simpson -Miller, affectionally referred to as “Sista P” and “Com-rade Leader” faces deep problems as she takes over the gov-ernment, with debt running at approximately 130 per cent ofthe Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and unemployment at morethan 12 per cent.

The prime minister-designate has already said her adminis-tration will be seeking to renegotiate the multi-billion dollarStandby Agreement (SBA) from the International MonetaryFund (IMF).

The next government may well be forced to adopt austeritymeasures, including sacking public sector workers, in a bid totackle the debt, analysts say.

“We have plenty of work ahead of us ... you will hear from ussoon as we move to put our team in place,” she told support-ers, urging all Jamaicans “to work with us as we move thiscountry forward together”.

“We will tell you as it is, we will hide nothing from you, whenit is tough and rough we will let you know, when it is easy wewill let you know,” she said, informing all investors and busi-nesses “that you have a government you can trust”.

She said her administration would be working with Jamaicansin the Diaspora to “move Jamaica forward”.

“We are going to unite and move Jamaica as it has never seenbefore,” she added.

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When Second Chance Boutique, opened its doors lastmonth, those looking to buy and sell clothing andaccessories had a new option. The store, located at,

2405 East Washington St. Orlando, FL 32803, is the brainchildof Molly Sebreth, born in Trinidad, but who has made the USher home for many years. In an interview, she said the storewill carry clothing, as well as jewelry, handbags and shoes.Sebreth also intends to offer the option of consignment for In-dian Wear and Evening Wear. She currently carries all women'ssizes, as well as juniors and misses.

Sebreth said she was inspired to open Second Chance Bou-tique in this location as it just outside of downtown, so it'sconvenient to people traveling from around Central Floridaand still has parking available. She's aware of the renewedinterest in consignment shopping and wanted to offer an adultversion of Plato's closet.

"I've always been interested in this type of a business," shesaid. Second Chance Boutique will accept items that are cleanand in good condition, Sebreth is looking at increasing herstock of indian wear, evening wear and quality bags. The con-dition the items are brought in will help determine their price,Sebreth said. "Appearance means a lot," she said, adding thattoday's fashions are welcomed. "We would like them current."

Sebreth said her main goal for Second Chance Boutique is tohelp to give people the opportunity to buy name brand itemsat a low price. Additionally, people who are looking to bothturn clothing over, and make a profit to be able to buy newclothing will be able to benefit from the consignment aspectof the business. This is something many people are especiallyinterested in, she said, given today's economic state.

Stop by to see Second Chance Boutique on the corner of Bumbyand Washington. For more information or to make an appoint-ment call 407-556-5650.

Second Chance BoutiqueSecond Chance BoutiqueSecond Chance BoutiqueSecond Chance BoutiqueSecond Chance Boutique

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“I am humbled by the support of theJamaican people and I ask you toensure that you greet JamaicaLabour Party supporters with love...we will tell you as it is, we will hidenothing from you, when it is toughand rough we will let you know,when it is easy we will let you know...we are going to unite and moveJamaica as it has never seen before.” - Hon. Portia Simpson-Miller, Prime Minister-designate, Jamaica(CMC)

“Starting tomorrow we will be re-building. Our campaign for the next

government starts tomorrow. We are determined to serve thepeople of the country in the best way possible.

It is clear to us however that the people of the country stillhave certain concerns apparently about the Jamaica LabourParty and we will be reflecting on those.”

- Andrew Holness, former Prime Minister of Jamaica (CMC)

“Our Comrades here of the SKNLP (St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party)are proud of the decisive victory of our Sister-Party, the PNP (People’sNational Party), and look forward to closer collaboration and part-nership in the future as you take on the mantle of leadership ofyour country at a time when the region and the world are beset byso many social, economic and financial challenges.”

- Dr. the Hon. Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister, St. Kitts and Nevis

“There is no future without earning incremental amounts offoreign exchange, and we are only fooling ourselves if we thinkotherwise. If we are serious about fixing our fiscal deficiencieswe had better start talking exports fast.”- Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Chairman, Sandals Resorts (Jamaica Observer)

“We are pushing for Foreign Direct Investment. Now is a verygood time for the TT (Trinidad and Tobago) private sector andthe private sector of CARICOM (Caribbean Community) andthe ACS (Association of Caribbean States) to come and take alook at these investment opportunities that we have.”

- Hon. Laurent Lamothe, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Haiti (Trinidad and Tobago’s Newsday)

“The Saint Lucia Tourist Board looks forward to working withMinister Lorne Theophilus. This is the first time the tourismportfolio has been tagged with heritage and creative indus-tries, two sectors of the economy the new government says itwants to give added attention ... and sees the tourism industryas that vital catalyst and gateway for achieving this goal.”

- Louis Lewis, Director of Tourism, Saint Lucia

“They call me Mr. Fête, since ah born ah never miss one yet. Ifsun shinin’ ah drippin’ sweat, thunder storm and ah soaking wet.They say Mr. Fête yuh mad? and I say miss a fête, yuh mad? Icome here to get on bad. Fêting is we name, we doh play, we goin’night and day. No fête can tire’ we. We comin’ again every day,we full ah energy, is fête they calling we, like dat is we name.”

- Machel Montano, Trinidadian musician(2012 Carnival release “Mr. Fête”) Listen here

“Quotable Caribbean” is compiled by Marketplace Excellence, a fullservice, integrated marketing agency committed to excellence inthe fields of public relations, marketing and media coaching.

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By Emily Dicksonhttp://thetravellingtrini.com

If you are reading this, then most likely you are like me - aWest Indian far from home, making a life in a new coun-try. As we all know, moving abroad is never easy. You have

to deal with homesickness,missing your family, learningyour way around, and makingnew friends. It can be a hardadjustment, and it takes timeto really feel at home.

So just how much time does itreally take? Six months? A year?Maybe it depends on where yougo. Cities like New York, Torontoand London have large Carib-bean communities, with rotishops, Jamaican markets andCarnival fetes, so you can stillfind a piece of home. But if youmove father away, the adjust-ment may take longer.

Five years ago I moved to Tokyo to teach English, and had topretty much start from scratch. Nobody spoke English, I didn’tspeak Japanese, and I couldn’t even figure out how to flushthe toilet! Sometimes it was frustrating , and lonely, but overtime I learnt the language, made great friends, and had oneheck of a time. Ultimately it was a wonderful experience thatcertainly made me a much stronger person. Was it hard? Yes.Was it worth it? Absolutely.

In my travels, I’ve met other West Indians living in far-flungplaces, across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and every-where in between, all taking on the challenge of living in avery foreign land. I decided to ask these bravehearts how longit took them to adjust, and what, if anything, helped with thetransition. These are their replies:

Nicole - Jakarta, Indonesia:Nicole - Jakarta, Indonesia:Nicole - Jakarta, Indonesia:Nicole - Jakarta, Indonesia:Nicole - Jakarta, Indonesia:

Two years ago, if I had to pick the last place on earth that I’dlike to live, Indonesia would’ve made the top 10 on that list. Inspite of that, when my company offered me a post in their Jakartaoffice, I accepted on the premise that it’d one day make for agood story and at the very least earn me a little extra cash.

To say that Jakarta was a shock to the system would be anenormous understatement: I imagined a conservative tropicalisland with slightly less pork. What I found was a filthy over-crowded mess, pollution, perpetually gridlocked traffic, andsome of the most seedy nightlife in Asia. This was a far cryfrom the postcards I had seen of Bali!

Surviving in Jakarta requires a laid back outlook, and havingon several occasions been called the “most uptight West In-dian ever” I had doubts about my ability to cope. But in aneffort not to be defeated, my attitude slowly changed.

Over time, the things I hated about Jakarta gradually becamethings that I secretly liked. Three hours of traffic on a Fridayafternoon? No problem! Have your driver stock a cooler withdrinks and start the after-work lime in your car! Theunpredictability of the city, which was the source of much frus-tration in the early days, became the most endearing thingabout the place. Surviving in a new place requires a positiveattitude, and a willingness to try.

Dionne - Rijeka, Croatia:Dionne - Rijeka, Croatia:Dionne - Rijeka, Croatia:Dionne - Rijeka, Croatia:Dionne - Rijeka, Croatia:

I can’t say exactly how long it took me to adjust to life inCroatia, as I worked for many years on a cruise ship and hadvisited Croatia a number of times before actually making themove. But that doesn’t mean it was easy!

I met my Croatian husband while working on the cruise ship,

and moved to his hometown. Probably the biggest challengewas settling in with the family, due to cultural differences, andalso the language.

What really helped me adjust was making new friends, mainlyother foreigners living here who were going through the same

thing. Unfortunately manyfriends ended up leavingCroatia, so I decided to start upan International Group in or-der to meet other foreignersand new-comers in my city. Itis very nice to have a new limehere.

Another thing that helped mewas joining all the arts andcrafts classes I could find tokeep me busy and creative. Ithink if you want to adjust toa new place you have to makethe effort to put yourself outthere and get involved.

Laura - Nanjing, China:Laura - Nanjing, China:Laura - Nanjing, China:Laura - Nanjing, China:Laura - Nanjing, China:

I’ve lived in five countries, and coming to China has been my hardestmove yet. It has taken me one full year (where as it usually takesme 3-6 months) to adjust and feel comfortable. The language, bothwritten and spoken, has been a significant barrier. However, noth-ing could have prepared me for the cultural differences and socialnorms in China. I have never felt more foreign!

Making friends here who feel the same things I feel and under-stand what I am going through has been a huge help. A goodlaugh with friends is so important. More than anything though,it took time. With time I’ve learned to be patient, tolerant andaccepting of our differences. I figured out how to get around, Ifound a place to get a pedicure, and a store to buy cheese andchicken breasts. I learned to say my address in Chinese, tell a taxidriver when to stop, and how to ask for “one more cold beer”.With time I learned that I was saying “Chinese people are verybad” when really I was trying to say “My Chinese is very bad”.Dining out is always interesting and I’ve learned to surrendermyself to eat whatever the server brings me when I go to a restau-rant. But definitely I’ve had to allow myself more time than usualto figure things out and laugh it off with good friends.

Transitions - How long does it take toTransitions - How long does it take toTransitions - How long does it take toTransitions - How long does it take toTransitions - How long does it take toadjust to a new country?adjust to a new country?adjust to a new country?adjust to a new country?adjust to a new country?

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CAFA-A 501 (c) (3)Tax Exempt Organization

FREE Health Fair

Vendors Please Call for Pricing of Booths.

AT

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Mayor Buddy Dyer, local officials, news media and more than500 people including many in the Caribbean Community. Ma-jestic, is owned by Mathura Holdings and is another Carib-bean owned business that has invested in Orlando and contin-ues to create employment in this economy. Mayor Dyer hadhigh praise for the venue saying “ Orlando has the AmwayArena, the best of it’s kind and now the Majestic Event Center,the best of it’s kind.”

Guests were treated to the melodious sounds of Branches SteelOrchestra as they parked their cars and walked into the build-ing. Upon entering, guests were ushered to the Crowne ball-room a 3900 square foot room with a 1500 square foot deckoutside. DJ Al and BIC sounds provided the music in that area,where the crowd networked with the Caribbean AmericanChamber of Commerce for the first hour before moving on tothe ribbon cutting and 2nd party space.

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, in the front of the building,guests were taken into the Grand-Royale a combination of tworooms with a total of 7900 square feet with a 3200 square footdeck outside. In this room the energy was pumping and guestswere treated to music by Powerline Sounds, fabulous deliciousfood by Puff & Stuff Catering and free drinks sponsored by Pin-nacle Vodka and Miller Beer all in an atmosphere enhancedwith the furniture provided by AFR Events.

As you wound down the evening, the patio adjoining the

Grand-Royale ballroom was the stage for the final hour of give-aways and thank you’s, with the sounds of reggae provided byDJ Phayze Chambers of Vibrant Soundz. GGR Marketing &Public Relations, owners of Caribbean American Passport NewsMagazine were the event organizers for the grand opening andtold us “every detail was thought out to set the tone of theMajestic Event Center as one of Orlando’s premier event ven-ues with world class décor, food and service and a variety ofspaces to choose to suit your mood and your event. “

“Whether you are catering to business meetings, weddingsor other events, Majestic Event Center’s aim is to create memo-rable experiences for their guests so that they keep comingback, “ said event organizer Guenet Gittens-Roberts, “whenyou attend an event at the Majestic Event Center - alwaysexpect the best.”

Majestic is 5 minutes away from downtown Orlando and 20 min-utes from the Orlando International Airport. It is close to severalmain arteries and highways such as I-4, the Florida Turnpike,408, State Road 50 (Colonial), and is found directly on John YoungParkway. According to the owners, the Mathuras’ this beautifulupscale venue was built to answer the needs of a broad range ofcustomers - it can be used for Weddings, Wedding Receptions,Banquets, Business Conferences, Birthday Celebrations, FamilyReunions, Religious Services, and so much more. Majestic willalso be home to some of Orlando’s best Concerts, Shows, ComedyNights, Plays, Recitals, and Upscale Parties.

Majestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetFacility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center, continued from page 1continued from page 1continued from page 1continued from page 1continued from page 1

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. . . held on Decemer 17, 2011 featured The Caribbean American Association of Deltona’s float in the parade playing reggaechristmas carols. For more information on this organization contact the President, Dawn at 386-717-9461.

The City of Deltona’s Christmas parade . . .The City of Deltona’s Christmas parade . . .The City of Deltona’s Christmas parade . . .The City of Deltona’s Christmas parade . . .The City of Deltona’s Christmas parade . . .

Majestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetMajestic, Central Florida’s newest BanquetFacility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center,Facility and Event Center, continued from page 1continued from page 1continued from page 1continued from page 1continued from page 1

Photography by Griffith Photographers© 2012

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Most AmericansMost AmericansMost AmericansMost AmericansMost Americansactually supportactually supportactually supportactually supportactually support

earned legalizationearned legalizationearned legalizationearned legalizationearned legalizationBy Felicia Persaud

Given the abysmal reportson illegal immigrationflying around the coun-

try, one could easily come to theassumption that all Americansare opposed to the undocu-mented. However, as the Pew Re-search Center revealed, this couldnot be further from the truth.

The reality is that a whopping 72percent of Americans support apath to citizenship for unautho-rized immigrants, once they if

they pay a fine, have jobs and pass background checks.

Especially since, as the Center also revealed, the undocumentedpopulation has dropped from the much bandied about num-ber of 12 million to about 11.2 million. The recent decreasefollowed a two-decade period of growth and comes on the heelsof reduced flows into the U.S. from Mexico.

The support among Latinos for comprehensive immigration reformis higher still, in the upper 80 percentile, a factor that will become amajor campaign issue leading into the 2012 Presidential elections.

There is no denying that most rational Americans, whethernative-bornor natural-ized citizens,support apathway tolegalizationfor the undocumented, especially since as the Pew Researchfound, these are not people who just came over the border orinto the country.

As Pew researchers discovered, following analysis of the U.S.Census Bureau’s March 2010 Current Population Survey, nearlytwo-thirds of the 10.2 million unauthorized adult immigrantsin the United States have lived in this country for at least 10years and nearly half are parents of minor children.

The undocumented also make up 28 percent of the country’sforeign-born population and 3.7 percent of the overall popu-lation, making up a significant part of the country. But mostimportantly, the Pew Hispanic analysis finds that 35 percentof unauthorized adult immigrants have resided in the U.S. for15 years or more; 28 percent for 10 to 14 years; 22 percent for 5to 9 years; and 15 percent for less than five years.

Further, at least 9 million people are in “mixed-status” fami-lies that include at least one unauthorized adult and at leastone U.S.-born child and there are 400,000 unauthorized immi-grant children in such families who have U.S.-born siblings.

These are generally moral, law abiding and hard working people andnot the harsh criminals the right wingers and blue dog democratsbelieve are part of the undocumented populace. It is for this reasonwhy the humane approach, President Obama and lawmakers, shouldbe to grant legal status to these immigrants. It is not only the humane,but the right thing to do, for a people who are already a big part of thefabric of this country and who keep the economic engines turningsmoothly daily. Without their labor, many industries, including thefarms, will be affected, as we’ve already seen in states like Alabama.

Most of Americans get this and now the lawmakers reallyneed to listen, instead of trying to march to the drum beat ofa few bigoted nuts, who would be happy to rid the country ofall black and brown immigrants.

Felicia Persaud is founder of NewsAmericasNow, CaribPR Wire andHard Beat Communications.

Diabetes testingDiabetes testingDiabetes testingDiabetes testingDiabetes testingmall tour 2012mall tour 2012mall tour 2012mall tour 2012mall tour 2012

J amaican celeb-rity chef CharlesMattocks, neph-

ew of Reggae legendBob Marley, and histeam will travel thecountry for a Diabe-tes testing mall tour,the first of its kind.Their goal is to reach1 million new diabet-ics. The team willvisit key cities andtest people for diabe-tes, and will also col-lect a database ofnewly diagnosed topre-diabetic. The fo-cus is urban areaswith high minoritytraffic. The target de-mographic is middle-aged persons to se-niors, with a strongpush to the youngercliental as they pro-

vide awareness through literature and brand recognition.

Chef Mattocks and his team plan to visit Atlanta GA, OrlandoFL, Miami FL, Tampa FL, Jacksonville FL, St Petersburg FL, Dal-las TX, Washington DC, Los Angeles CA, San Diego CA, andBaltimore MA.

Charles Mattocks has made a name for himself as a celebritychef, actor and best- selling author of “Eat Cheap but Eat Well.”His famous tag line: “What can you cook for $7.00”? took thecountry by storm.

The inspiration behind his concept was his son, Armani. To-gether they created “The Poor Chef” and set out to changethe way America eats. The idea was to inspire and educatepeople how to shop for and prepare healthy and deliciousmeals without breaking the bank. Chef Mattocks appeared

r e g u l a r l yon nation-wide pro-grams suchas The Dr.Oz Show,

Good Morning America, The Today Show, Fox TV, MarthaStewart, ABC, CBS and a host of others. He is featured insuch publications as Cosmopolitan Magazine, Quick andSimple, Edible Publications, RYSE and Martha Stewart toname a few.

In late 2010, Charles’ life was forever changed. Given a devas-tating diagnosis of Type 11 diabetes, he quickly learned whata confusing and frightening time that is for millions of peoplejust like him, and from that moment on he made it his life’smission to become a beacon to those in search of answers andto cover this globe promoting early detection of diabetesthrough frequent testing, prevention through lifestyle, diet andhabit changes.

Charles has set a goal to test 150,000 people for diabetes withinthe next two years and to collect a data base of 500,000 dia-betics and to continually update them with the latest informa-tion and educational resources. Charles has put his talents towork in a way he never imagined. He began directing and pro-ducing what will become the most powerful full length docu-mentary film of its kind on diabetes. The film will take himaround the world bringing education, awareness and inspira-tion across the globe. It is set to reach over 4 MILLION peopleworldwide. His gripping television series of the same name “TheDiabetic You’ is set to air early 2012 on a major network with areach of over 10 MILLION viewers.

Charles Mattocks

The reality is that a whopping 72 percentof Americans support a path to citizenshipfor unauthorized immigrants . . .

The idea was to inspire and educate peoplehow to shop for and prepare healthy anddelicious meals without breaking the bank.

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Central Florida Urban LeagueCentral Florida Urban LeagueCentral Florida Urban LeagueCentral Florida Urban LeagueCentral Florida Urban Leaguehosts 2012 Financialhosts 2012 Financialhosts 2012 Financialhosts 2012 Financialhosts 2012 Financial

Empowerment SummitEmpowerment SummitEmpowerment SummitEmpowerment SummitEmpowerment SummitEvent features presentations to help Famil ies,Event features presentations to help Famil ies,Event features presentations to help Famil ies,Event features presentations to help Famil ies,Event features presentations to help Famil ies,

Women, Millennials and EntrepreneursWomen, Millennials and EntrepreneursWomen, Millennials and EntrepreneursWomen, Millennials and EntrepreneursWomen, Millennials and Entrepreneurs

Recognizing theneed to equipfamilies with

information and re-sources to navigate astill recovering econ-omy, the Central

Florida Urban League is hosting its 2012 Financial Empower-ment Summit, powered by Fifth Third Bank.

The Summit takes place on Saturday, Feb. 4 from 7:30 a.m. to3:30 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Downtown,located at 60 S. Ivanhoe Boulevard in Orlando.

“Attendees will leave this Summit empowered to reach theirfinancial goals,” said Allie L. Braswell, Jr., Central Florida Ur-ban League president. “We’re delighted to have the support ofFifth Third Bank in presenting an event to educate and pre-pare our residents in building and securing their economic fu-tures, which will ultimately improve their quality of life.”

Designed to assist Families, Women, Millennials, and SmallBusiness Owners, the program is organized into four tracks withtailored presentations about building, planning and growingfinancial resources. Participants will learn how to improve theiroverall financial position, protect themselves from identity theft,purchase a home in today’s economy, plan for their financialfuture, and discover resources available to help grow and sus-tain their businesses.

The Summit will include continental breakfast and lunch.Space is limited. Those interested in attending may visit http://www.cful.org to register.

GAIL Foundation & LaParkanGAIL Foundation & LaParkanGAIL Foundation & LaParkanGAIL Foundation & LaParkanGAIL Foundation & LaParkanbring Christmas to Guyanabring Christmas to Guyanabring Christmas to Guyanabring Christmas to Guyanabring Christmas to Guyana

OrphanagesOrphanagesOrphanagesOrphanagesOrphanages

This past Christmas was brighter for children at the RedCross Convalescent Home in Georgetown, Guyana andChildren of Promise Eden Orphanage in Berbice, Guyana.

Attorney Gail Seeram, founder of the GAIL Foundation, identi-fied the need for items at both toddler rooms during a trip toGuyana in September. With the donated shipment by Mr. PaulSingh and Mrs. Anita Singh, owners of LaParkan Shipping inOrlando, Florida, the GAIL Foundation secured donated fundsfor the items and furnished two toddler rooms with plenty oftoys just in time for Christmas.

Ms. Martha McIntosh, donated through the GAIL Foundation,to provide the following items to the Red Cross ConvalescentHome: floor puzzle mats, toddler chairs, 4 toddler walkers,leggos, toy guitars, toy pianos, writing easel, wall decorations,walk & play rides, balls, Leap Frog activity table, books & cray-ons. The toddler room items were handed over to Mr. EwinEnmore, director of the Red Cross Convalescent Home, twoweeks before Christmas and Attorney Gail Seeram furnishedthe rooms immediately.

Ms. Vani Chattergoon and Mr. John Lowton, also donatedthrough the GAIL Foundation, to provide the following itemsto the Children of Promise Eden Orphanage: floor puzzle mats,Disney Hut Tents, writing and painting easel, playdoh, toyguitars, toy piano, wall décor, books & crayons. These itemswere handed over to Ms. Pansy Howell, founder of the Orphan-age, and she and Attorney Gail Seeram opened and placed allthe items in the newly renovated toddler room.

The GAIL Foundation continues to work with children organi-zations in Guyana to identify their needs and secure dona-tions from Guyanese-American abroad that are desirous to“GivingAbundantly In Life”.

Subsequently, cholera, famine, panic and rape spread throughthe make shift camps erected for the survivors.

Disaster relief funds were immediately started. Public figureslike Hollywood actor Sean Penn and Haitian American singerWyclef Jean flew out and helped bring attention to the situa-tion in Haiti. On reflection, and to our immense credit, we aregood in a crisis and we share what we have with others well.Even in these tough economic times, we dug deep and madesizeable donations to the relief effort.

But, prior to the earthquake, what did we really know of Haiti?Only what we had heard in the media: that it was a formerFrench colony in the Car-ibbean, famous for voo-doo, the brutal regimesof the dictators Papa Docand Baby Doc Duvalierand their merciless band of hired thugs the Tonton Macoutes.What else? Possibly that it was the poorest country in the West-ern hemisphere. Possibly also, depending on your knowledgeof history, that it was the first independent black republic inthe Western hemisphere and that a man called ToussaintLouverture, a slave revolt leader led his army of slaves to vic-tory over Napoleon’s forces back in 1804. The reality was that,until that day two years ago, even for those of us from theCaribbean, Haiti was but a distant dot on the edge of our con-sciousness, sufficiently far away to not trouble our sleep or dis-turb our waking thoughts. Then the earthquake happened andit tore the heart out of our geographical ignorance and thesense of complacency we were in…was shattered.

Today, two years on, an island is slowly rebuilding itself. Buthuman suffering, hardship and poverty on an immense scale

still unfortunately remain. Half the rubble has been clearedfrom the streets of Port-au-Prince, but much still strews the al-leys and the public thoroughfares. Progress has been slow, notleast because of the sickeningly large cholera epidemic (ap-parently introduced by accident by UN troops). In short, Haititoday remains a humanitarian disaster of staggering, biblicalproportions. Homelessness and disease are rife. 500,000 peopleare still living in tents in despicable sanitary conditions andlife is far from returning to even a vestige of normality for thecity's millions of inhabitants.

On the second anniversary of the earthquake, let us spare athought for the poor, bruised yet still standing people of Haiti.

Bloodied and battered,but not defeated and notvanquished, they are aninspiration to us all.Against the most over-

whelming odds, they are a hardy, resilient and dignified peoplewho have endured their suffering, with courage.

As the Haitian Creole proverb goes, admirably expressing theirmoral and physical fortitude in the face of crushing adversity,'Fer ka plié, mais nou pa ka plié.' (Iron may bend, but we willnot bend.)

If the Haitian earthquake can teach us one thing above allelse, then it must be that we are, our brothers' keepers, despiteliving in this age of rampant, materialism and egotistical pos-turing. In times of terrible anguish and vile suffering - timeswhen we question the very fabric of the human condition -wherever it may be in the world, we must pull together, digdeep and help those who could so easily be us, but with a dif-ferent name or a different face.

2 years on: Haiti, Lest We Forget...2 years on: Haiti, Lest We Forget...2 years on: Haiti, Lest We Forget...2 years on: Haiti, Lest We Forget...2 years on: Haiti, Lest We Forget...Continued from page 1

Subsequently, cholera, famine, panic and rape spreadthrough the make shift camps erected for the survivors.

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Gone but notGone but notGone but notGone but notGone but notForgottenForgottenForgottenForgottenForgotten

Trinidadian, Ralph Mac-Donald, a Grammy

Award-winning percussionistand composer whose under-stated Afro-Caribbean rhy-thms were known as “the ghost”behind the hit records of a mul-titude of 1970s and ’80s pop starsand who was a co-writer on thehit songs “Where Is the Love?”and “Just the Two of Us,” diedDec. 20th, 2011 in Stamford,Connecticut. He was 67.

G uyanese and CentralFlorida’s own Godfrey

Chin, social history icon andculture enthusiast Godfrey Chinhas passed away. He was 74. Hewas the author of the very popu-lar Nostalgia series in variousmedia, as well as a book–Godfrey’s Nostalgias-GoldenMemories of Guyana 1940-1980–and a pictorial enthusiast.

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ImmigrationTALK ImmigrationTALK ImmigrationTALK ImmigrationTALK ImmigrationTALK TMTMTMTMTM

U.S. Visa Lottery Open from Oct 4U.S. Visa Lottery Open from Oct 4U.S. Visa Lottery Open from Oct 4U.S. Visa Lottery Open from Oct 4U.S. Visa Lottery Open from Oct 4ththththth Nov 5 Nov 5 Nov 5 Nov 5 Nov 5ththththth

U.S. Supreme Court examines Arizona Immigration LawU.S. Supreme Court examines Arizona Immigration LawU.S. Supreme Court examines Arizona Immigration LawU.S. Supreme Court examines Arizona Immigration LawU.S. Supreme Court examines Arizona Immigration LawBy Attorney Gail S. Seeram1-877-GAIL-LAWwww.GailLaw.com

On Monday, December 12, 2011,the Supreme Court announcedwhat many supporters and op-

ponents of Arizona SB 1070 long ex-pected: that the Justices will themselveshave the final word on the validity ofthe injunctions entered shortly after the

immigration law was enacted last year. Technically, the ques-tion before the Justices is simply whether four of the law’s pro-visions should be temporarily blocked pending resolution of alarger legal challenge. The Supreme Court may well providebroad guidance about what role, if any, local police and Statesmay play in enforcing federal immigration law-which couldin turn affect legal challenges to copycat laws in other states,such as Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina.

Earlier last year, the Florida legislators tried to pass an immi-gration bill but it did not receive the required number of votes.Since Arizona tried to criminalize illegal immigration on theState level, many immigrants left the state and the economyin Arizona has declined drastically.

How did the case get to the Supreme Court?Soon after Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer signed SB 1070 intolaw, the federal government filed suit alleging its provi-sions conflicted with, and were thus “preempted” by, fed-

eral immigration law. A district judge in Phoenix entereda temporary injunction against four of the law’s provi-sions while permitting others to go into effect. A federalappeals court in San Francisco then upheld the injunc-tion, causing Arizona to file a petition with the SupremeCourt. The main issue is whether the States can enacttheir own immigration laws where federal immigrationlaws already exist in the areas where the States can try-ing to enact legislation.

Which provisions of SB 1070 will the Supreme Courtconsider?

The Justices will evaluate the temporary injunctions againstthe following four provisions of SB 1070:

• Section 2(B), which requires local police officers to investi-gate the immigration status of any person they stop or de-tain whom they possess “reasonable suspicion” to believe isunlawfully present in the United States;

• Section 3, which makes it a crime under Arizona law forforeign nationals to fail to carry or apply for registrationpapers provided by the federal government;

• Section 5, which makes it a crime under Arizona law forimmigrants to solicit, apply for, or perform work withoutfederal employment authorization; and

• Section 6, which authorizes local police officers to arrest for-eign nationals whom they have “probable cause” to believehave committed an offense making them deportable fromthe United States.

The Justices could vote to uphold or overturn the injunctionagainst all, none, or some of the provisions.

When will the case be argued and decided?The Supreme Court did not set a date for oral argument, thoughit will likely occur in March or April 2012. Regardless of whenthe case is argued, the decision, as always, is likely to come bythe end of June 2012.

If Arizona wins, will states have a “green light” toenact copycat laws?

Certainly not. At present, the Supreme Court is only consid-ering whether the four provisions of SB 1070 should be tem-porarily blocked while the underlying legal challenge is re-solved. In addition, the suit brought by the federal govern-ment involves a much narrower set of issues than a com-panion case brought by a coalition of immigrants’ rightsgroups. Finally, even if the Supreme Court finds the injunc-tions were not required against the law as written, it wouldnot prevent future suits from challenging how the law isactually implemented.

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BRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUMBRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUMBRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUMBRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUMBRYAN AND GARY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A PUBLIC FORUMFOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKINGFOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKINGFOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKINGFOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKINGFOR SOME OF THE MOST PROVACATIVE AND THOUGHT PROVOKINGTOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. TODAY THEY’RE ASKINGTOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. TODAY THEY’RE ASKINGTOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. TODAY THEY’RE ASKINGTOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. TODAY THEY’RE ASKINGTOPICS THAT DEAL WITH EVERYDAY LIFE. TODAY THEY’RE ASKINGTHE QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF SOMEONE OFFERED YOUTHE QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF SOMEONE OFFERED YOUTHE QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF SOMEONE OFFERED YOUTHE QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF SOMEONE OFFERED YOUTHE QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF SOMEONE OFFERED YOU$10 MILLION DOLLARS FOR ONE NIGHT WITH YOUR SPOUSE?$10 MILLION DOLLARS FOR ONE NIGHT WITH YOUR SPOUSE?$10 MILLION DOLLARS FOR ONE NIGHT WITH YOUR SPOUSE?$10 MILLION DOLLARS FOR ONE NIGHT WITH YOUR SPOUSE?$10 MILLION DOLLARS FOR ONE NIGHT WITH YOUR SPOUSE?

Bryan

Gary

GARY: Bryan this sounds like that movie “Indecent Proposal.”BRYAN: You’re exactly right, the only difference is that the movieonly offered $One Million Dollars. But that was almost 20years ago,so I guess with inflation $10 Million seems more realistic.GARY: Yeah Bryan , but in the movie the question was posed tothe husband about sleeping with his wife.BRYAN: Yeah, So what?GARY: Well, What man in his right mind is going to agree toone night with his wife?BRYAN: Do you see the kind of economy we’re in? Do you see theunemployment rate? A lot of married men would offer up there wivesfor much less. But the question wasn’t geared towards one spouseover the next. What if someone offered you $10 Million Dollars for anight with you?GARY: Well if that someone was Halle Berry , Jennifer Lopez,or Nicole Scherzinger from X-Factor, then I would just have totake one for the team. It would be very tough and I don’t knowhow I would sleep at nights, but I would try. LOLBRYAN: I’m sure you would. But what if the same offer was made toyour wife? What then?GARY: Yuh MAD! “NO WAY, HOSEH.” Forget the money; I willjust have to continue to suffer.BRYAN: LOL, But that’s not fair.GARY: Well life isn’t fair. And that’s something we have to

deal with everyday. Look Iknow that it sounds hypocriti-cal but such is life. I wouldrather keep her all to myself;I wouldn’t even want him toget a whiff of her.BRYAN: Man that’s just a selfishposition to take, don’t you thinkthat she should have a say in allof this? What if this is a sacri-fice that she would be willing tomake for her family, shouldn’tshe be given that option? Do youknow how far $10 Million Dol-lars can go?GARY: Maybe you didn’t hear

me before so let me say it again; “NOOO.... WAAAY, HOSEH.”Look man, you can call me selfish or whatever name you wantbut he would have to keep his money. By the way, why yuh atek set pah mi? WHAT WOULD YOU DO MR. BRYAN? Whydon’t you tell us?BRYAN: LOL, You know I just find it funny that most men wouldn’thave a problem spending the night and collecting the money, butthey would have a problem with their wives spending the night andcollecting the money.GARY: Yeah, Yeah, Yeah....What Would You Do?BRYAN: Well Gary, My body is a temple and I don’t know if I wouldaccept ANY MONEY from ANYBODY for a night of pleasure.GARY: Man Cut the CRAP. What part of YOUR body is a TEMPLE? WHAT WOULD YOU DO?BRYAN: LOL, O.K.... But I still wouldn’t charge for the pleasure. Theywould just have to pay me for my time. The pleasure they can havefor FREE, because it would be all mine. As far as my wife, I wouldlike to think that I am a reasonable man, one who is confident andsecure in his relationship....So I would give her the option of makingher own decision.GARY: Yeah Right, and if she chose to spend the night, YOUWOULD BE FINE WITH THAT?BRYAN: I said I was a reasonable man, not a stupid one. Of courseI would NOT be fine with that. The point I’m trying to make is that,the decision would still be hers to make. Now that’s not to say thatthere wouldn’t be consequences to that decision but the decisionwould still be hers.GARY: LOL, yeah that’s the Bryan I know.BRYAN: It’s funny though Gary that society would be more accepting of

the man doing it but not the woman.GARY: Well I think it’s becausewomen tend to get more emo-tional and men can detachtheir emotions.BRYAN: Well whatever it is, Iwould like to get some feedbackfrom our readers.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY THAT’S FULLOF UPS AND DOWNS, TWISTSAND TURNS, SUCCESSES ANDFAILURES, AND A LOT OFTHINGS IN BETWEEN. SO WHATWOULD YOU DO IF FACED WITHTHIS QUESTION? E-MAIL US ATBACK2BASICLIVE@GMAIL.COM.

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Indo-Caribbean collection of books andIndo-Caribbean collection of books andIndo-Caribbean collection of books andIndo-Caribbean collection of books andIndo-Caribbean collection of books andliterary materials unveiled by Queensliterary materials unveiled by Queensliterary materials unveiled by Queensliterary materials unveiled by Queensliterary materials unveiled by Queens

Public Library, Richmond Hills, NYPublic Library, Richmond Hills, NYPublic Library, Richmond Hills, NYPublic Library, Richmond Hills, NYPublic Library, Richmond Hills, NY

Richard David, Executive Director of ICA withAuthorof Breakout, Sukree Boodram.

Saturday December 10th, 2011 marked a historic day forthe Indo-Caribbean community in Richmond Hills, NY.The Queens Borough Public Library Lefferts Branch,

opened its doors to the first Indo-Caribbean Library Collection,not only in New York, but in the US.

This collection is a joint initiative of the Indo-Caribbean Alli-ance and Queens Library to significantly increase the amountof Indo-Caribbean materials in circulation within the publiclibrary system. This Collection is intended to give residents inthis large concentration of Indo-Caribbean nationals, easyaccess to the rich and diverse history, culture and experiencesof their community. The Collection features over 100 titles onvarious subject matters including migration, assimilation, food,art, sports, music, philosophy, gender issues, politics and so-cial issues, including domestic violence.

One of our own, Central Florida author and advocate of domestic

violence awareness,Sukree Boodram,www. sukreeboodram.com, was in at-tendance at this his-toric event. Ms.Boodram traveledespecially for thisunveiling to supporta very active organi-zation consisting ofIndo-Caribbeanyouths. Indo-Carib-bean Alliance (ICA)is a progressive non-profit organizationthat seeks to unifyand advance Indo-Caribbean interestsby fostering jointand collaborativeactions among resi-dents, organizations

and businesses. They can be contacted at: www.indocaribbean.orgor at 347-566-1422 and email: Indocaribbean@gmail.com.

The Indo-Caribbean Alliance is part of a coalition seeking tointroduce Indo-Caribbean & South Asian history and cultureinto the public school Curriculum in New York City neigh-borhoods with high concentrations of Indo-Caribbeans &South Asians.

The event was well attended by members of the various related or-ganizations as well as educational institutions in the community.

Caribbean StyleCaribbean StyleCaribbean StyleCaribbean StyleCaribbean StyleChristmas in OrlandoChristmas in OrlandoChristmas in OrlandoChristmas in OrlandoChristmas in OrlandoHermia Steward Kerr smiles as she receives her hamper

with Christmas goodies from RIDD Auto Sales repre-sentative. Mrs. Kerr outwitted all callers and won the

Christmas quiz competition organized by Caribbean Vibes RadioProgram (airs on WOKB Radio 1680am Saturdays 9pm to 12am.)

Host Junior Bpraised the resi-dents of Orlandoand surroundingareas for theirsupport and in-volvement.

Many thanks tothe followingsponsors: Carib-bean One Stop,RIDD Auto Sales,GAS N Go KwikStop, Jamaican American Association of Central Florida, Al-lied Auto Center, Cliff Entertainment New York, Finesse Elec-trical Installators, Singer Ochie and most importantly the manylisteners and participants.

Caribbean Vibes wishes all a very peaceful, productive andprosperous 2012.

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By Danielle Matthew and Meisha Perrin

In the city of Orlando, there is a vibrant Caribbean commu-nity that is ever-growing and ever-changing.

At the University of Central Florida (UCF), the community at largeis definitely represented. UCF also has a growing number of Car-ibbean-American students each year attending the university andevery semester more and more students of Caribbean heritageare added to its enrollment. To accommodate these students orbetter still to create that “home away from home” atmosphere, is

the Caribbean Students’ Association (CSA). This organization cre-ates a familiar place for students that resonates with the Carib-bean culture to create a family that will always be there for themthroughout their collegiate experience.

This year, CSA’s executive board boasts17 members—the largest executive boardof any organization at the university—and each has their own unique approachto helping the organization grow andcontinually give the students what theyseek; a sense of community. CSA-UCF isled by Aeryel “Sunshine” Williams, presi-dent, a senior who has been a CSA mem-ber her entire collegiate career. She hopesto continue the familial atmosphere thatCSA provides to its members and wantsstudents to absorb more than just thefood and fun of the Caribbean; she wantsthem to take away a sense of pride andenriched heritage from it all.

Alongside Ms. Williams, there are the other16 members of the executive board thatincludes Kadeem Stewart, Vice President;Haydee Torres, Secretary; Shanece Joseph,Treasurer; Indiria Hill, Historian; ChaynaDouglas, Public Relations Director; Danielle Chasten, PromotionsCoordinator; Danielle Matthew, Events Coordinator; Symone Tay-lor, Campus Liaison; Kris Duran, Campus Liaison; Melvin George,Red Team Leader; Nedrick Louis-Jacques, Blue Team Leader; SeyiAkinyooye, Green Team Leader; and Gaslande Fleurimont, Yel-low Team Leader—all of whom have various ethnic backgrounds.Some of them hail from Jamaica while others are from the UnitedStates Virgin Islands and even Nigeria. The board also has diver-sity in the range of degree programs that each is pursuing, rang-ing from Micro and Molecular biology and Mechanical engineer-ing to Interdisciplinary Studies and International Relations.

The collective goal of the executive board is to make this yearan “EPIC” year for the members to remember and take away alittle more understanding about themselves in the puzzle thatis UCF, understanding that there are many opportunities avail-able to minority students, especially students with diverse eth-nic backgrounds, and just try to have balance between schooland fun throughout their time at UCF. Most importantly, wewant to enhance and expand their education and understand-ing of the many facets and attributes of the Caribbean.

Working together for the Fall semester with different schedules,working styles, and an overflow of ideas has worked out well forthe CSA executive board and the organization’s members. Todate, there has been a myriad of successful events to bring theCaribbean student population and the campus-at-large together.

During the annual “CSA Week” in September, the organization

held several events with the theme, “Caribbean Television: Ev-eryday a Different Channel.” Some of the bigger events werethe talent show and music and dance exposition that show-cased members, UCF students, and UCF minority organizationsdemonstrating aspects of the Caribbean culture through musicand dance; and the “Taste of the Caribbean”, which allowedstudents to sample the cuisine of many Caribbean nations fromHaiti to Curacao.

The organization is also involved in the community, participat-ing in such events as the American Heart Association Heart Walk,

the Annual Knights GiveBack event coordinated byVolunteerUCF, where mem-bers helped a youth footballand cheerleading league,and bringing a Financial For-titude Workshop in collabo-

ration with the Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta SororityIncorporated to students to help develop financial literacy. Asthe school year continues, the CS A has many events planned

for its members spanning from team events to large-scale eventssuch as the annual CSA Lock-In and the 10th Annual “MissCSA-UCF” and 4th annual “Mr. CSA-UCF” Pageant.

The Caribbean Students’ Association at the University of Cen-tral Florida looks forward to continuing its outreach to the Cen-tral Florida Caribbean community and contributing to the suc-cess of its mission at the university’s campus.

The Caribbean Students’ Association atThe Caribbean Students’ Association atThe Caribbean Students’ Association atThe Caribbean Students’ Association atThe Caribbean Students’ Association atthe University of Central Floridathe University of Central Floridathe University of Central Floridathe University of Central Floridathe University of Central Florida

[The Caribbean Students’ Association] creates a familiar place for studentsthat resonates with the Caribbean culture to create a family that willalways be there for them throughout their collegiate experience.

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CaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanChamber of CommerceChamber of CommerceChamber of CommerceChamber of CommerceChamber of Commerce

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Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida (CACCF)Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida (CACCF)Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida (CACCF)Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida (CACCF)Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida (CACCF)Announces Its Caribbean American Resource Directory, 2012 EditionAnnounces Its Caribbean American Resource Directory, 2012 EditionAnnounces Its Caribbean American Resource Directory, 2012 EditionAnnounces Its Caribbean American Resource Directory, 2012 EditionAnnounces Its Caribbean American Resource Directory, 2012 Edition

The Executive & Board of Directors of theCaribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida

Cordially invites members and non-members to ourAnnual General Meeting & Elections

January 24th, 2012, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmSoiree Banquet Hall & Conference Center,6394 Silver Star Rd, Orlando, FL 32818

If you would like to pay membership prior toelections so that you may run for office or vote - dues

can be paid online at www.caccfl.com

Membership is valid for 1 year. Join now!

Resource DirectoryResource DirectoryResource DirectoryResource DirectoryResource DirectoryAre you a member of theAre you a member of theAre you a member of theAre you a member of theAre you a member of the

Caribbean American ChamberCaribbean American ChamberCaribbean American ChamberCaribbean American ChamberCaribbean American Chamberof Commerce of Florida?of Commerce of Florida?of Commerce of Florida?of Commerce of Florida?of Commerce of Florida?

Free Listing in CACCF Directory.Free copy mailed to you.

Free Networking Opportunities.Preferential discounts at participating vendors.

Discounted ad rates.Mentoring Assistance from the Business Community.

Your support keeps the Caribbean Community and theirbusinesses vibrant and active in the eyes of

City and Government Officials.Membership: $100.00 per year for small businesses

CACCF Members get 20% off ad rates.Ad Prices:

Full page $500Half Page $250

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Not a Member?Then you won’t be listed in this year’s

directory unless you contact us.You’ll pay $30.00 for your listing to be added to the book.

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in 5000 print copies and available in pdf form online.Start your business off right in 2012.Join the Chamber that works for you.

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For more information:(407) 427-1800

or email directly to guenetroberts@yahoo.comGuenet Roberts - CACCF Resource Directory

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Experts from the Caribbean Region and the CaribbeanDiaspora gathered on 18, 19 November 2011 at the LloydErskine Sandiford Conference Centre in Bridgetown, Bar-

bados to discuss how science, technology and innovation (ST&I)can be effectively used to diversify the Region’s economy. Theworkshop was organized by the Caribbean Science Foundation(CSF) with support from the Caribbean Diaspora for Science Tech-nology and Innovation (CADSTI) and several other sponsors.The CSF is the first nonprofit funding agency specifically dedi-cated to enhancing and promoting ST&I in the Caribbean.

Under the theme, “Mobilizing the Diaspora for Caribbean Devel-opment through Science, Technology and Innovation,” the work-shop harnessed the energy of representatives from business,government,academia, and non-governmental organizationswho came from various Caribbean countries, the USA, the UK,Canada, and Germany. The main message was that the region ispoised for change, but needs assistance in many areas - particu-larly in the translation of S&T research into economic benefits.

A distinguished panel officiates the opening of the CSF work-shop. From left to right are CSF governing council members: Dr.Arnoldo Ventura, aformer science adviserto Jamaica’s primeminister, SenatorFranka Alexis-Bern-ardine, Grenada’sMinister of Education,and Dr. Cardinal Warde, MIT electrical engineering professorand Chairman of the CSF’s Governing Council.

A few highlights from the two-day workshopA few highlights from the two-day workshopA few highlights from the two-day workshopA few highlights from the two-day workshopA few highlights from the two-day workshop

• Cutting-edge scientific research posters were presented bystudents and researchers from: UWI (Cave Hill and MonaCampuses), the Guyana Ministry ofEducation, the Univer-sity of Montreal (Canada), the Caribbean Eco HealthProgramme, the Atlantis Mobile Laboratory (Dominica), theBio-Tech R&D Institute (Jamaica), the University of Mary-land (USA), The Johns Hopkins University (USA), SriKrishnadevaraya University (India), Yogi Vemana Univer-sity (India), Dartmouth College (USA), Barbados Commu-nity College, the Aquatic Ecosystem Protection ResearchDivision (Canada), the University of Trinidad and Tobago,and the University of Technology (Jamaica).

• Prominent educational policy experts in the Region advisedconference delegates on strategies for implementing educa-tion reform that would include a strong mix of STEM (sci-ence, technology, engineering, and math) subjects. Thoseexperts included Dr. Didacus Jules, head of the CaribbeanExaminations Council (CXC), Senator Franka Alexis-Bernardine, Grenada’s Minister of Education, Senator R.Orlando Marville of Barbados, and Dr. Winston King, UWI-Barbados education professor.

• One of the region’s top financial experts, Dr. DeLisle Worrell,Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, captured theattention of all with his presentation of a new economic“theory of value” for the Region.

• The Honorable Norris Prevost, a Member of Parliament inDominica, described the E-one Caribbean project, whichseeks to engage the Caribbean diaspora in reinvigoratingtheir home countries by volunteering and providing finan-cial support towardcapacity-building efforts at homethrough non-governmental organizations.

• Mr. Geoff Seyon, Executive Chairman of Medullan Inc., a

Caribbean Science Foundation mobilizes local andCaribbean Science Foundation mobilizes local andCaribbean Science Foundation mobilizes local andCaribbean Science Foundation mobilizes local andCaribbean Science Foundation mobilizes local andinternational expertise in quest to spur regional economicinternational expertise in quest to spur regional economicinternational expertise in quest to spur regional economicinternational expertise in quest to spur regional economicinternational expertise in quest to spur regional economicdevelopment through science, technology and innovationdevelopment through science, technology and innovationdevelopment through science, technology and innovationdevelopment through science, technology and innovationdevelopment through science, technology and innovation

leading eHealth consulting firm, discussed how hiscompany’s software engineers in Trinidad & Tobago are de-signing critical applications for the US healthcare industry.

• Dr. Basil Burke, CEO of UWI Consulting, emphasized therole that TheUniversity of the West Indies can and must playas a catalyst for growth and development of the CSF.

• Some of the UWI students in attendance agreed to help de-sign a competition to recruit more students to pursue STEMdegrees and careers. That offer was readily adopted as thefirst educational project for the CSF Governing Council Edu-cation Committee (Dr. Jeanese Badenock, Dr. Sheena Francis,and Prof. Maya Trotz) which said the project provides aframework to develop “CSF champions” through mentorshipand training.

Selected Workshop CommentsSelected Workshop CommentsSelected Workshop CommentsSelected Workshop CommentsSelected Workshop Comments

“This first CSF Workshop was strategically held at the same timeand place as the annual summit of the Barbados Entrepreneur-ship Foundation so as to concurrently build synergy with the

Region’s private sec-tor,” said Dr. CardinalWarde, Chairman ofCSF’s GoverningCouncil. A Barba-dian-born professor ofelectrical engineering

at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dr. Warde is him-self an entrepreneur, having founded two technology compa-nies: Optron Systems, Inc.and Radiant Images, Inc.

“The meeting brought into sharper focus the very importantrole and objectives of the CSF,” said Mr. Dodridge Miller, a CSFGoverning Council member and CEO of regional insurancegiant, Sagicor Group of Companies. “Our intervention into thecurrent course of development in the Region is timely and re-quired if future generations are to have a credible chance atengaging the rest of the world on near equal terms.” Sagicor isnow working with CSF’s education committee on a project todevelop sustainable Caribbean communities.

“We welcome this initiative to set science and research at theheart of regional efforts to boost innovation and business,”said Mr. David Elek, Global Director of Emerging Markets atSpringer, one of the world´s largest academic publishers anda co-sponsor of the conference. “Springer knows that manyof the authors of tomorrow will come from emerging mar-kets, including the Caribbean, and we wish to foster any ef-fort that will improve skill-sets needed to publish research intop international journals.” Led by Mimi Hendricks, Springer’sLicensing Manager in the Region, the publishing firm alreadyhas agreements in place with the University of the West Indies(UWI) that provides faculty and students access to its onlinejournals database.

Fund-Rais ingFund-Rais ingFund-Rais ingFund-Rais ingFund-Rais ing

Going forward, the CSF will continue its push to raise US $13million over the next three years to promote education reformand technology-based entrepreneurship in the Region. Indi-viduals or organizations interested in supporting either theeducational and/or the entrepreneurships projects of the CSFmay do so at http://caribbeanscience.org/donation/or by com-municating with Dr. Cardinal Warde (warde.csf@gmail.com).

For more information on the Caribbean Science Foundation, visithttp://caribbeanscience.org, subscribe to the Caribbean ScienceFoundation Facebook Page, and follow @caribsf on Twitter.

The main message was that the region is poised forchange, but needs assistance in many areas - particularlyin the translation of S&T research into economic benefits.

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For More Information Contact:Andy: 407-345-4188Victor- 407-484-5692Sam - 407-810-6435

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