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PRESORTED NOVEMBER 2007 STANDARD ® U.S. POSTAGE PAID MIAMI, FL PERMIT NO. 7315 Tel: (305) 238-2868 1-800-605-7516 [email protected] [email protected] W e cover your world Vol. 18 No. 12 Jamaica: 654-7282 THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING NEWS MAGAZINE Another major American restaurant franchise has added some distinct Caribbean tastes to its menu, like the coconut shrimp. As “Captain D’s Seafood” admits, “Caribbean flavors are very hot now,” page 14.

International dancehall entertainer Moses Davis, popu- larly known as “Beenie Man”, is free on bail, ~ A recent study claims the virus that causes AIDS but he still came to the U.S. via Haiti, page 2, sparking outrage has to from others who say the information does a ‘grave answer to disservice’ to that Caribbean community, which is charges of failing to ‘going crazy’ over the allegation, page 18. pay millions of dollars in taxes in Jamaica, page 19. Remembering our heroes ~ A monument to the Chasseurs-Volontaires de Saint-Domingue, Haitian soldiers who fought in the Jamaica’s captain Chris Gayle American Revolution, was poses with the spoils after he unveiled last month in and his team dethroned T&T to claim the KFC trophy and title Savannah, Georgia, page 5. of the Caribbean’s top one-day cricket team, page 25.

CALL CARIBBEAN TODAY DIRECT FROM JAMAICA 654-7282 INSIDE News ...... 2 Tourism/Travel ...... 11 Local ...... 18 Politics ...... 23 Feature ...... 8 Health ...... 13 Arts/Entertainment ...... 19 Sport ...... 25 Viewpoint ...... 9 Caribbean Foods ...... 14 Region ...... 21 Education/Youth ...... 27 CTNov2007.qxd 11/5/07 5:15 PM Page 2

2 CARIBBEAN TODAY November 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS HIV arrived in U.S. from Haiti ~ study NELSON A. KING strain of virus that spawned Zero theory came from a mis- the U.S. AIDS epidemic prob- representation for Patient O, ARIZONA - A new study in ably arrived in or around for “Out of California”, where the United States says HIV, 1969. That is earlier than a lot early research on AIDS by the virus that causes AIDS, of people had imagined,” the Atlanta-based U.S. Center probably came into America Worobey said. for Disease Control and from Haiti around 1969, a “Haiti was the stepping Prevention (CDC) suggested decade earlier than most stone the virus took when it HIV in the U.S. spread in the scientists believed. left Central Africa and started late 1970s, early 1980s came The study, titled “The its sweep around the world. from one man in California. emergence of HIV/AIDS in “Once the virus got to the According to the work of the Americas”, was published U.S. it just moved explosively Worobey and his colleagues, on Oct. 29 in “The Proceedings around the world.” the strain that came to the of the National Academy of U.S. in 1969 was HIV-1 group Sciences”. It is the work of COMMON ANCESTOR M, subtype B; and is the first Michael Worobey, an assistant The researchers found discovered human immunode- professor of ecology and evo- that most HIV/AIDS strains ficiency virus. lutionary biology at The in the U.S. came from a single “This strain is the most University of Arizona in common ancestor that pre- dominant of the AIDS strains Tucson, and his colleagues. dates the well-storied “Patient that exist in most countries “Our results show that the Zero” theory. The Patient outside of sub-Saharan Africa, The AIDS virus. nearly all of which descended in the U.S. can be traced to from the one that came out of one ancestor, the one that Haiti,” the researchers said. entered the U.S. from Haiti in The researchers analyzed and around 1969. the genes in stored blood sam- The researchers said that ples of five AIDS patients to Haiti had a greater genetic pinpoint the date HIV arrived diversity of the subtype B virus in the U.S. All the patients than the U.S., Australia, Europe had recently emigrated from and other countries. They esti- Haiti. mated the virus traveled from “The most likely route Africa to Haiti in 1966. was Africa to Haiti then the U.S., which yielded a proba- Haitians outraged by research bility of 99.8 percent,” the findings, page 18. researchers said, adding that the gene sequence analysis ® also showed that most viruses Caribbean joins U.N. in calling for end to U.S. embargo on Cuba UNITED NATIONS – The a resolution – with an over- Caribbean community (CARI- whelming 184 votes in favor – COM) has reiterating its call to all states to once more refrain from “promulgating and joined the applying laws and measures not United conforming with their obliga- Nations in call- tions to reaffirm freedom of ing for end to trade and navigation”. the commer- Speaking on behalf of CARI- cial, economic COM, The Bahamas’s U.N. and financial Ambassador Paulette Bethel said embargoes Bethel the “significant impact of the imposed on embargo on the Cuban economy Cuba by the United States for is of great concern” to CARI- nearly half a century. COM, “as was the humanitarian For the 16th year in a row, impact on the Cuban people, the General Assembly adopted (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4) Governor backs off plan plan to issue licenses to N.Y.’s illegal immigrants NEW YORK – New York identification State Governor Eliot Spitzer to board planes is backing off his plan to allow or cross bor- illegal Caribbean and other ders. immigrants to obtain the same Other New kind of driver’s licenses as Yorkers who other New Yorkers, after con- can prove that troversy over the proposal. they are legal Instead, the governor said Spitzer residents of late last month that illegal the United immigrants in the state would States would be eligible for be able to obtain a license that federally recognized identifi- would permit them to drive, cation cards. but would not be accepted as (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4) CTNov2007.qxd 11/5/07 5:15 PM Page 3

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4 CARIBBEAN TODAY November 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Crime hampering Caribbean development ~ OAS Caribbean awaits details WASHINGTON, CMC – The tributes to the widespread Organization of American availability of firearms,” on U.S. deportee program States (OAS) says crime and Ramdin said. violence are undermining GEORGETOWN, Guyana, U.S. State Department had development in the Caribbean WORSENING CMC - The Guyana govern- signed an agreement with the and has called on regional The assistant secretary ment says it is yet to receive secretariat to include Guyana, countries to address the prob- general said that, worse yet, the any official document in rela- Jamaica and The Bahamas in the lems through greater coopera- Caribbean is no longer just a tion to the proposal by the deportee program it established tion and partnerships at region for illegal drugs to pass United States government to with Haiti a few years ago. regional and international lev- through, it is increasingly implement a program for peo- U.S. Ambassador to els. becoming a market for illegal ple deported to the country. Guyana David Robinson said OAS Assistant Secretary Ramdin drugs, targeted particularly at Last month the Georgetown- the decision to extend the pro- General Albert Ramdin said crime problem. He expressed youth. Noting the negative based Caribbean community (CONTINUED ON PAGE 6) governments should invest concern that the region has to impact crime and violence has (CARICOM) announced that the more in economic, social, edu- contend with its status as a on the region’s already vulnera- cation and prevention policies major trans-shipment point ble economy, Ramdin said Barbados elected to to combat the challenges of for narcotics and its vulnera- many of the challenges facing drugs, guns and gangs, bility to drug trafficking and the Caribbean transcend through, for example, poverty cited a United Nations Office national and regional bound- key UNESCO body eradication and youth devel- on Drugs and Crime/World aries. opment programs. Bank report said the drug “Demand for drugs NEW YORK – Barbados is review the state of sites already Speaking on the topic of trade is at the core of violent emanates from Europe and the among nine countries elected on the list and whether action to the 21-member United needs to be taken to support “Crime, Violence and Security crime in the Caribbean. United States. On the other Nations Educational, Scientific their safeguarding. It also main- in the CARICOM: Creating “To compound matters, hand, the supply of hard drugs and Cultural Organisation tains the List of World Heritage Community in the fighting drug trafficking and like cocaine emanates from (UNESCO) committee in Danger. Caribbean”, at a conference narco-related crime diverts Latin America and flows charged with overseeing the here late last month, Ramdin criminal justice resources northward via the under- said drug trafficking, the manned, porous borders and World Heritage List of cultural PROPOSAL needed for other important and natural wonders. As a State Party to the World emergence of terror networks, activities; and at the same open waters of the region,” and the linkages between he said. A UNESCO statement Heritage Convention, Barbados time, increases and embeds issued late last month stated has proposed two cultural sites criminal gangs and terrorists more violence, undermines are at the core of the region’s ® that Barbados would join and one natural site on its social cohesion and con- Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Tentative List with the hope that China, Egypt, Jordan, Nigeria they will eventually be inscribed and Sweden as new members on the World Heritage List. NYC honors Jamaican soldier killed in Iraq war on the committee elected to Bridgetown and its Garrison; The NEW YORK – New York “We, in Sgt. Watt had received a four-year terms during the Industrial Heritage of Barbados: City Council has posthumous- East New number of awards since enlist- General Assembly of the 184 The Story of Sugar; and The ly honored a Jamaica-born, York and the ing in the army, including the States Parties to the UNESCO Scotland District of Barbados are United States soldier who was entire city, are Commendation, Achievement Convention Concerning the the sites on the Tentative List. killed in the Iraqi war. saddened. and Purple Heart awards, and Protection of the World There are currently 851 The parents of Sergeant “And we the Iraqi Campaign Medal Cultural and Natural cultural or natural sites on the Kimel Lincola Watt received want to at Patch. Heritage, held in Paris. World Heritage List, and they the proclamation last month least pay hom- “Sgt. Kimel Lincola The committee meets are situated in 141 countries. annually to inscribe sites on the from the City Council at a cer- age to their Stewart Watt…stands as a symbol of emony at New York City Hall. son and honor courage and commitment to World Heritage List and to Sgt. Watt, 22, was killed in them today, as they continue the finest traditions and ideals action in Iraq on June 3 when to deal with this devastating of our City and nation”, the Caribbean joins U.N. in calling for an explosive device detonated loss of life,” he continued. proclamation read. near the army vehicle in which Dr. Kendall Stewart, the St. he was traveling. ARMY FIRST Vincent and the Grenadines- end to U.S. embargo on Cuba “Please give Sgt. Watt’s Sgt. Watt, who migrated to born chair of the Council’s (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) between both countries, “akin parents a big handclap for New York from Jamaica when Committee on Immigration, to initiatives undertaken for particularly in the area of health negotiations of far more diffi- their strength, courage and he was six years old, chose the said he was saddened by the care and food. their ability to keep going army over attending John and loss of another young soldier in cult international issues.” “Cuba is an integral part of CARICOM states support- forward,” said Councilman Wales University in Rhode the ongoing war in Iraq. the Pan-Caribbean process, and Charles Barron, who repre- Island on a scholarship, his “It’s very sad to know that ed the draft resolution, which CARICOM’s links with Cuba was opposed by four states – sents the Brooklyn district of parents said. They said he we are losing so many of our remain strong. East New York, where Sgt. thought that, by enlisting in young people in a war that we Israel, Marshall Islands, Palau, “It is no small feat that and the U.S. The Federated Watt lived with his parents, the army, “he would have bet- don’t understand why it con- Cuban assistance in the field of Clifton and Naomi Watt, ter opportunities and more tinues,” Stewart said. States of Micronesia abstained. health is considerable, even as Cuban Foreign Minister before he enlisted in the U.S. hands-on experience to build a the impact of the embargo is Army in 2003. career in computer science.” ® Felipe Pérez Roque denounced systematically stiffened,” she the long-running blockade added. imposed on his country, calling Governor backs off plan plan to issue licenses to N.Y.’s illegal immigrants “Through its actions, Cuba it the main obstacle to the has shown it was an integral development and well-being of ments that have been devel- here legally, but federal law (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) part of the Caribbean.” the Cuban people, and a “bla- oped by the U.S. federal gov- does allow states to make that These would serve as dri- tant, massive and systematic” ernment since the Sept. 11 ter- choice,” Chertoff said. NO THREAT ver’s licenses and would be violation of their rights. rorist attacks. “What we can do is insist Bethel said Cuba has not “Anyone can understand accepted as identification for a Spitzer announced his that licenses that do not meet threatened any member state, number of purposes, including the level of socio-economic new plan at a news conference federal requirements be clear- but rather, has sought to assist development that Cuba would boarding planes and entering in Washington with Michael ly so labelled,” he added. its neighbours “in the quest for federal facilities. have attained had it not been Chertoff, the secretary of the “New York has agreed to do human development. subjected to this unrelenting Department of Homeland that.” “The embargo against CRITICISM and obsessive economic war,” Security. Still, he said the plan in Cuba is an anachronism and he told delegates. The move followed a Chertoff explicitly did not total “represents a major step serve no useful purpose in the wave of criticism over the gov- He said the U.S. has not condone the move by New forward for security, both for 21st century, which is also facing only ignored, “with both arro- ernor’s proposal, with many York and some other states to New York and for the coun- the climate change challenge,” Democrats warning that gance and political blindness,” allow illegal Caribbean and try.” she said. the 15 resolutions adopted by the Spitzer had put the state party other immigrants to apply for As CARICOM enjoys in political peril. The new plan Assembly calling for the lifting of any kind of driver’s license. - CMC friendly relations with Cuba the blockade; but has, over the also reflects the increasingly “I don’t endorse giving and the United States, Bethel complicated security require- last year, adopted new measures, licenses to people who are not ® called for a “new beginning” further tightening the sanctions.

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NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com U.S. city honors Haitians who fought in American Revolution statue commemorat- raised on either side ing the contribution of of a fallen comrade, AHaitian soldiers who and a young Henri fought in the American Christophe as a Revolution was unveiled last drummer boy. month in Savannah, Georgia. Christophe fought in The statue, which was Savannah as a erected in Franklin Square, teenager, and later depicts life-size statues of four became Haiti’s first soldiers, all members of the president after its Chasseurs-Volontaires de liberation from Saint-Domingue, a regiment France. which formed a tenth of “Unfortunately, the allied army during the many Americans are Revolutionary War’s bloody unaware of the sig- siege of Savannah in 1779. nificant contribution The Haitian free blacks, this unit of Haitian who numbered more than 500, soldiers made to our were the largest military unit Independence,” said of the Savannah battle, and Dorian Rolle, a possibly the largest black unit Miami-Dade County to serve in the American commissioner who Revolution. The soldiers were attended the event. noted for their distinguished “Hopefully, the stat- bravery, often risking their ues will lead to more lives to provide cover for the questions and more American colonists and answers so that the French soldiers they fought story of their brav- alongside. ery will continue to After fighting unsuccess- be told and that fully to keep the British out Haitians’ long histo- The monument to the Chasseurs-Volontaires de Saint-Domingue, Haitian soldiers who fought in the American Revolution. of the city, many returned to ry with the United Haiti to lead rebellions that States will be sentatives Kendrick Meek and The memorial was made since 2001. An additional won that country’s acknowledged.” John Barrow, Savannah possible by the fund-raising portion of the monument – Independence in 1804. Commissioner Rolle Mayor Otis. S. Johnson, and lobbying efforts of the two more soldiers - will be The statue in Savannah contributed funding to the Haiti’s Consul General Ralph Miami-based Haitian erected in Feb. 2008. stands on a six-foot tall gran- creation of the monument. Latortue and several other American Historical Society. ite pillar and illustrates two He was joined in SavannahF elected officials from across The organization had been ® Haitian soldiers with rifles for the event by U.S. repre- the U.S. and from Haiti. championing for the statue

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www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Senator faces expulsion from Haiti’s House in row over U.S. citizenship GUY DELVA “I have never renounced The Haitian constitution Boulos traveled to the numbered PP 1260252, accord- my Haitian nationality. I have provides that any Haitian citi- Dominican Republic on Mar. ing to documents obtained by PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti - A been targeted for political rea- zen who has obtained a foreign 15, 2005 with a U.S. passport CMC from government, judicial United States citizen of Arab sons, because I stand against a citizenship loses the Haitian numbered 701-977-831, while and electoral sources. decent, who has been elected to plan uttered by certain authori- nationality and therefore is he holds a Haitian passport Haiti’s Senate, now faces dis- ties to restore a dictatorship in banned from running for ® missal and possible arrest after the country,” he said. Parliament and for president. officials accused him of fraudu- In a document signed by U.S. proposes military lently obtaining a Haitian pass- ‘EVIDENCE’ Boulos before immigration port and making false statements But Haitian officials main- authorities, he admitted that the before election authorities. tained Boulos – who is part of a Haitian passport he obtained in test site in Suriname Senator Rudolph Boulos, family with a long tradition of Aug. 31, 2005, was his very first who is a member of one of the doing business in Haiti – is a Haitian passport. But Boulos PARAMARIBO, Suriname, said Suriname is willing to country’s wealthiest and most U.S. citizen and should leave had been living in Washington CMC - The United States assist the U.S. powerful families, was born on Parliament. for years and has gone on government has proposed to “This is an issue we are April 28, 1951 in Manhattan, “We have documented evi- numerous trips during the past establish facilities in Suriname discussing for some time now New York, United States, dence that Mr. Boulos is a U.S. years. President of the Senate to test the performance of and it has been mentioned according to official documents, citizen. Therefore he is not Joseph Lambert said he was newly devel- again by the defense secretary. copies of which have been allowed to seat at the Haitian expecting official notification oped U.S. We have the conditions and if obtained by the Caribbean Senate,” said a high-ranking gov- from judicial and government military vehicles could be tested in our Media Corporation (CMC). ernment official who spoke to authorities before acting and has vehicles, conditions we are willing to Those documents have also CMC on condition of anonymity. announced the Senate would President assist - of course on a basis of shown that Boulos had been “If Mr. Boulos does not give launch its own investigation. Roland mutual benefit,” said the pres- using a U.S. passport lately, up the Senate seat he has “If it is confirmed that Venetiaan ident after the meeting with confirming that he has U.S. citi- obtained fraudulently, he runs Senator Boulos possess a U.S. said after a the defense zenship – which disqualifies him the risk of being arrested and passport, he will be simply dis- meeting with secretary at to occupy a seat at the Haitian prosecuted,” the same source missed,” said Lambert, inviting U.S. Defense the presiden- Senate even as he continues to told CMC. “He still has time to Boulos to voluntarily resign if Secretary Venetiaan tial palace. claim he is Haitian. choose.” he really holds a U.S. passport. Robert Gates Gates. told local Gates met with Venetiaan media that he Antigua open to amicable settlement and Suriname Defense did not dis- Minister Ivan Fernald in cuss the pos- Paramaribo at the close of sible estab- Gates with U.S. on Internet gaming dispute his five-day, five-country tour lishment of a through Latin America last U.S. military air base in ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – We’ve agreed to a 30-day sus- erned by those month. Suriname or elsewhere in the The Antigua and Barbuda gov- pension of certain actions so as rules and then The U.S. official’s visit to four other nations he previous- ernment says it is still open for to allow for further dialogue,” the issue really Suriname coincided with the ly visited during his tour. finding an amicable solution to Finance and Economy Minister becomes one conclusion of the humanitari- The U.S. is in search of a the ongoing Internet gaming Dr. Errol Cort said. of fair com- an mission of the U.S. Navy location to establish a small dispute with the United States. pensation.” hospital ship Comfort which air base for counter-narcotics Last month, the Baldwin NEGOTIATE Last year, Spencer administration filed a Attorney Mark Mendel, Washington offered free medical and flights. It is likely that health care services to locals. Ecuador will not renew the motion with the World Trade who is heading the Antigua and barred Cort Organization (WTO) request- Barbuda legal team, said the American Venetiaan did not disclose lease on a facility it hosts ing the suspension of conces- island has always been willing banks and details of the proposed U.S. when the agreement expires in sions and other obligations with to negotiate. credit card companies from pro- military test site or when it 2009. U.S. officials, however, respect to the Internet gaming Cort said that Antigua and cessing online gambling pay- might be operational, but said are hoping that Ecuador will dispute. The twin-isle state is Barbuda had no other options ments. While WTO has upheld the government has been change its position. pressing for $3.4 billion in trade than to press for the sanctions. a U.S. decision to prevent cross discussing the issue with sanctions against Washington “We were not originally border gambling, it ruled that it Washington for a while. He ® after it banned cross-border desirous in going down that was illegal for the U.S. to target Internet gaming. road,” he explained. offshore gambling outlets and U.S. court finds man guilty “We’ve had talks, we’ve “…If, however, as the rules not apply the same rules to had discussions with the United allow for any party to withdraw American operators. States. The door is still open. its obligations, then we are gov- ® of killing T&T singer’s nephew NEW YORK – A Brooklyn Fortunato, who faces from Caribbean awaits details on U.S. deportee program jury last month found a 21- five to 25 years in prison. (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4) more concrete projects being grams seeking to integrate the year-old New Yorker guilty of “My client turned to me offered. scores of persons who were second degree manslaughter and he thanked me and he’s gram to the other three CARI- “What this program will deported to the region on an as a hate crime and petty lar- crying because he obviously COM countries was taken by basically do is provide a num- annual basis. ceny in the killing of the knows the ramifications for U.S. President George W. ber of consultancies to persons “At the end of the day, we nephew of Trinidadian enter- any kind of a conviction of a Bush. However, Minister of who would come and talk to want to ensure that programs tainer Calypso Rose. hate crime are very serious. Home Affairs Clement Rohee people to get a sense of how are put in place to address Prosecutors said Anthony The time that he is facing is said the Bharrat Jagdeo admin- this matter is playing out…I things like training, resettle- Fortunato, who had been substantial,” said defense istration was yet to receive offi- think it’s very clear to those in ment, reintegration and identi- charged with murder as a hate attorney Gerald Di Chiara. cial notification of the U.S. gov- the U.S. who are responsible fication,” Rohee said. crime, was one of four men Prosecutors said ernment’s intentions. for these matters how the “There must be concrete who lured Michael Sandy to a Fortunato and the others tar- “We have not given this deportee issue is affecting projects put in place in order to Brooklyn beach with the geted Sandy because they much thought because we are CARICOM countries. address the deportee issue in a promise of gay sex, but then thought his sexual orientation not in receipt of any official “If they want to send con- profound way and that is what I attacked him and chased him would make him easier to rob. communication which points sultants to talk and get a am hoping we would be able to onto a busy highway, where he Last month, a separate jury out the details under which the greater sense of how the issue achieve sooner or later.” was hit by a car and killed. found John Fox, another man program will be operated… is impacting the crime, social In June this year, CARI- The defense claimed in Fortunato’s group, guilty of until then I think we would and economic situation, we COM heads of government, be in a much more informed Fortunato couldn’t be guilty of robbery and manslaughter as don’t have any difficulty with during a dialogue with the position to be able to respond,” a hate crime, because he him- hate crimes but not guilty of that,” Rohee said. U.S. president in Washington, Minister Rohee told reporters self is gay. murder. A third man has plead- expressed the need for proper here. He said without getting ed guilty to attempted robbery, ACTION CALL re-integration programs for details of the program, initial EXTRA TIME and a fourth is being tried sepa- He said while consultation U.S. deportees. observations were that it would The hate crime element of rately. would be welcomed there was a be merely consultative without the conviction could mean need for more practical pro- ® extra time in prison for ®

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November 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 7

NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com St. Vincent nationals urged to give back to their homeland Terrorism concerns not affecting NEW YORK – Nationals of St. respect that you have earned hear the government dis- Vincent and the Grenadines to this point,” Gonsalves said. cussing these days – education U.S. visa approval rate ~ official have been urged to give back “As a community, you have revolution, wellness revolu- more to their homeland. grown larger and more tion, etc. – are part and parcel Camillo Gonsalves, the assertive; you have earned of a greater post-colonial rev- BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, the British, French and Dutch country’s newly appointed promotions, raises, and higher olution, where St. Vincent and CMC – Concern about terror- territories in the Caribbean. ambassador to the United education; you are managers, the Grenadines does not sim- ism has had no significant Officials say the embassy Nations, made the appeal late CEOs, and business owners; ply attempt to get by as it has impact on the number of issues some 3,000 immigrant last month as he delivered the you have clout both in New always gotten by,” he said. Caribbean nationals being visas and 45,000 non-immi- keynote address at a gala York and at home. “Instead, this post-colo- granted visas to travel to the grant visas per year, and all luncheon in Brooklyn mark- “Your remittances are nial revolution marks the United States, an official at applicants, with the exception ing the 28th anniversary of the vital. It is impossible to over- birth of a new phase in our the U.S. Embassy here has of those under 14 or over 80, nation’s Independence. state the importance of the journey of independence.” said. are required to attend an Gonsalves, a lawyer, is the money that you send back The luncheon, organized However, Consul General interview in Barbados. eldest son of Prime Minister home,” he added. by the Council of St. Vincent Clyde Howard admitted that “There is no way for us Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. and the Grenadines, the security concerns have signifi- to take visa applications out- It was his first major ‘REVOLUTION’ umbrella Vincentian group cantly impacted the way the side of the embassy,” Howard address to nationals here since The new ambassador also here, and the New York department does business. said. “The main reason for he replaced Margaret Hughes- urged nationals to remit their Consulate General, culminat- “A lot of changes have that is that we have to be able Ferrari, another lawyer, who knowledge, expertise, perspec- ed a week of activities, com- taken place in the way we to electronically scan people’s was recalled earlier this year. tive and their time to their memorating the Independence process visas since 2001,” fingerprints and at this time Gonsalves said that Vincentians homeland. He said that the anniversary. Howard said. there is no way to do that had a “unique and indispensa- incumbent administration in St. Vincent and the “We are much better at outside of this office. ble role to play in this new era Kingstown was crafting a Grenadines obtained political sharing information among “I know the Bureau of of nation building. “modern, post-colonial society Independence from Great U.S. government agencies Consular Services at the State “In the early days of that is centered on the needs Britain on Oct. 27, 1979. about who should not be Department is studying the the diaspora community, and interests of our people Vincentians did not have the and our Caribbean civilization. ® allowed into the United possibility of providing a numbers, the income and the “The revolutions that you States.” means for consular officers to He told journalists do remote collections of during a familiarization tour applicant data, but I don’t of the new embassy serving think we’re close to being Caribbean still subject to economic risks ~ IMF Barbados and the Eastern there yet, maybe in a few Caribbean that a lot more years down the road.” WASHINGTON – The lic debt remains “very high”, global economy”, the state- International Monetary Fund exceeding 100 percent of the ment said. information about applicants (IMF) says despite favorable Gross Domestic Product “At the same time, direc- is now being taken and the CRITICISM economic performance in (GDP) in some cases. It said tors underscored the continu- photographs of all applicants The embassy came in for recent years, the Caribbean is while debt levels have fallen ing need for action at the are compared with those of some harsh criticism recently still subject to significant eco- modestly in recent years, fiscal national level to strengthen people who are known securi- over the conditions made nomic risks. deficits deteriorated in some the foundations for sustained ty threats. available to visa applicants After conducting a semi- countries in 2006. regional growth and reduce waiting to go through their nar here to discuss selected vulnerabilities”. CHANGES interviews. regional issues, the IMF said CO-OPERATION KEY The directors were, how- “All these changes are “We understand that we in a statement Friday that sig- The IMF directors, there- ever, encouraged that some designed to make the process are here to provide a service nificant risks remain. fore, considered increased countries had taken advantage better and more secure to to the public and we want to “The Caribbean region is regional co-operation to be a of favorable economic condi- keep people out who might try to make that service as vulnerable to fluctuations in key element of the Caribbean tions to strengthen public intend to cause harm to the convenient and as easy to the external demand and damage strategy to make the most of finances and reduce debt United States,” Howard said, public as we can,” Howard from hurricanes”, it stated. globalization and address the earlier in the business cycle. adding “I don’t think there said. “As a result, economic growth challenges it entails, welcom- But they said that in countries, are many people like that in “We are restrained a little and overall macroeconomic ing the initiative to establish where efforts have waned the Caribbean so those bit by the way our space is performance have been the Caribbean Single Market more recently, it will be changes I don’t think have laid out and by the size of the volatile. and Economy (CSME). “important to accelerate the had much effect on flows waiting area that we have, but “And with current account “Directors noted, in par- pace of debt reduction”, stat- from this region.” we’ve worked out processes deficits mostly in double digits, ticular, that regional integra- ing that this will also be “key In addition to Barbados, that we think will make this the region remains highly tion can help the Caribbean to freeing up resources for the embassy serves Antigua process as pain free and as dependent on external financ- overcome some of the limita- social priorities and to create ing”. tions imposed by size and room to respond to future and Barbuda, Dominica, user-friendly for the public as The IMF stated that pub- compete effectively in the shocks”. Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, we possibly can.” St. Lucia and St. Vincent and Florida men charged with ® the Grenadines. It also serves ® murder in Caribbean Sea

MIAMI – Two Florida men, supposed to be going to The who United States federal Bahamas, was found near authorities say gave them Cuba the day after Archer inconsistent information in the and Zarabozo chartered it. disappearance of four crew The men were later found members of a boat in the floating in the boat’s life raft, Caribbean Sea in September, but the crew was not found. have been charged with first- The men initially told the degree murder. authorities that pirates had Prosecutors said last attacked the group and shot month they have enough evi- the crew members, Jake dence to charge the men, Branam, 27; his wife, Kelley Kirby L. Archer, 35, and Branam, 30; his half-brother Guillermo A. Zarabozo, 20, Scott Gamble, 30; and Samuel who chartered a vessel called Kairy, 27. the “Joe Cool” in September. The 47-foot boat, which was ®

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8 CARIBBEAN TODAY November 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com FEATURE Grenada speculates on pending general elections RAWLE TITUS election were called within 30 weaknesses and we intend to next elections with a landslide tions. days of that period it’s likely use it for those particular pur- victory by winning all 15 seats, During the recent throne ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada - A that an outcome will be some- poses,” was all he would say. a first in Grenada’s political speech, the government slip of the tongue could have thing similar,” said CADRES The fifth anniversary of history. announced several election- revealed the date for Grenada’s Director Peter Wickham. the last general elections here However, NNP has seen its grabbing projects ranging from next general elections. is Oct. 2008, but the poll can popularity nosedive. It barely an 80 million dollar agricultur- “Quickly prime minister, GUIDE be constitutionally called as scraped al diversification project to a when is the election again?” There has been initial late as Mar. 2009. However, through in the 35 million dollar upgrade of a asked a probing television speculation the fact that Mitchell has never 2003 elections market in the eastern parish of anchor, hoping by some stroke here that gen- gone down to the wire has by six votes in St. Andrew’s. of luck that the Grenadian eral elections helped to fuel speculation that the Carriacou Days later, the NDC leader would fall for her final would have a poll could be imminent. and Petit unveiled a package of meas- question in the live interview. been called Martinique ures it says it would introduced He did not. after April CHANGE constituency if elected into government “We have until March when Grenada But a lot has changed. and figures such as a plan to grow the level 2009,” was his only reply hosted super Prime Minister Mitchell’s from the office Thomas of employment by 15 percent eight matches administration has been of the in five years and increase followed by a loud chuckle. Mitchell And a few hours later in a in Cricket rocked by a spate of corrup- Supervisor of Elections indi- tourism’s share of GDP from news conference in St. George’s, World Cup tion allegations that just won’t cate that most Grenadians who 27 to 35 percent in five years. Prime Minister Dr. Keith 2007 at the brand new Chinese go away and his government voted did not cast ballots for Mitchell revealed just a little bit built national stadium. Any has had to grapple with a cost the party in the overall popular - CMC more: a date when Grenadians further speculation of a poll of living that has doubled. A vote. would make that trek back to before year end was dismissed new Value Added Tax (VAT), Political observers here ® the polls was already in his by Foreign Affairs Minister which would put 15 percent on have pointed to the 43 percent mind and a new public opinion Elvin Nimrod when he a range of goods and services, of respondents in the CADRES poll with a 30-day shelf life announced that public consul- has been pushed back twice poll who have not said who they would not change it. tations were underway ahead with the prime minister sug- will support. An editorial in the “The date that I have in of a December reading of the gesting that another delay is weekly Grenada Advocate mind will certainly not be 2008 estimates of revenues and possible. newspaper has said that “it altered by this poll,” insisted expenditure. “They are trying to post- believed this silent majority that Street Address: Dr. Mitchell in reaction to the Kenny Anthony’s St. pone the imposition of the tax will emerge as the as the major 9020 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33157 survey which predicted that his Lucia Labour Party (SLP) to hold the elections before factor in determining the out- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6010 New National Party (NNP) lost the government to John that measure is implemented. come of the next general elec- Miami, FL 33116-6010. could win a fourth straight Compton’s United Workers That seems to be what is going tions”. And local political com- Telephone: (305) 238-2868 (305) 253-6029 • Fax: (305) 252-7843 term in office if general elec- Party (UWP) when he called on,” observed Thomas, the mentator Lloyd Noel has dis- the elections roughly three Opposition leader whose NDC missed the conclusion of an Toll-Free Fax: 1-866-290-4550 tions were called soon. 1-800-605-7516 • Jamaica: 654-7282 The Barbados-based months after the shelf life of a controls seven of the 15 seats NNP win as inaccurate. poll conducted by CADRES in the House of “When you think there is E-mail: [email protected] Caribbean Development Send ads to: [email protected] Research Services (CADRES) predicting his party would Representatives. only a difference of six percent carried out the survey over a retain office. “An early election maybe between the two parties but Vol. 18, Number 12 • NOV. 2007 four-day period in September. “The poll will not deter- in his favor, but the longer he there is 43 percent waiting to Of the 900 successful inter- mine the date in my mind that takes…it seems that a lot of be convinced. It seems to me PETER A WEBLEY views completed in all 15 con- we have projected to call a issues are popping up and it the conclusion of the polls is Publisher stituencies, 30 percent said general election,” said Prime seems that the government not accurate at all,” Noel said. Minister Mitchell when that becomes more vulnerable with NNP officials say the party GORDON WILLIAMS they supported NNP, while Managing Editor 24 percent backed the main scenario was presented to him. time,” Thomas told CMC. has regained lost support and Opposition National But the Grenadian leader said NNP came to power 12 claim that a series of internal he was not bothered by this. years ago, when it defeated polls carried out in recent years SABRINA FENNELL Democratic Congress (NDC) Graphic Artist of Tillman Thomas. “It is a guide to tell us NDC of then former Prime have indicated this, while the “Our polls have a 30-day what are some of the strengths Minister George Brizan and it NDC has taunted them to and what are some of the retained the government in the prove it by calling fresh elec- DOROTHY CHIN shelf life. In other words if an Account Executive

SUNDAY SELLERS HIV/AIDS offers major challenge for Caribbean churches ~ leader Account Executive

NEW YORK – The Secretary Reformed Churches meeting News International quoted guns and small arms are JULISSA RAMOS General of the Trinidad-based in Trinidad that “in 1973, when Granado as saying in a report among other issues that are Accounting Manager Caribbean Media Source Caribbean Conference of the Caribbean Conference of issued here late last month. now challenging Caribbean Media Representatives Churches (CCC) says the Churches was formed, there He pointed to statistics churches and society. spread of HIV/AIDS is one of was nothing in the world that show that the Caribbean “We don’t manufacture TOM JONAS the major issues now facing known as HIV/AIDS. region is second only to sub- arms here, but the gangs have 353 St. Nicolas Street, Suite 200 churches in the Caribbean. “Now one of our biggest Saharan Africa in the rate of more sophisticated weapons Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2Y 2P1 Tel: (514) 931-0422 • Fax: (514) 931-0455 Gerard Granado told lead- programs is the response to HIV infection. than the police,” Granado E-mail: [email protected] ers of the World Alliance of HIV/AIDS”, Ecumenical According to UNAIDS, the said, referring to a recent case pandemic claimed an estimated in which a young man appre- Jamaica Bureau 24,000 lives in the Caribbean in hended by police possessed a MARIE GREGORY 2005, making it the leading U.S.-made lightweight subma- (876) 925-5640 CORRECTION/CLARIFICATION P.O. Box 127, Constant Spring cause of death among adults chine gun similar to the well- Kingston 8, Jamaica aged 15 to 44 years. known Israeli Uzi. • The module “Harmony”, which mailed to editor@caribbeanto- Opinions expressed by editors and A Roman Catholic was taken last month to the day.com. We appreciate your co- writers are not necessarily those of the SUPPORT layperson, Granado has led International Space Station, will operation. In addition, the deadline publisher. Granado said a recent set the CCC since 1999. offer docking facilities for space for submitting articles to be con- Caribbean Today, an independent of guidelines developed by the The church conference programs from Japan and several sidered for publication is the 20th news magazine, is published every month CCC for Caribbean Faith- grouped 33 member-churches European countries, not China, as of the month preceding the month by Caribbean Publishing & Services, Inc. Based Organizations to deal in 34 territories. The CCC is Subscription rates are: US$20 per year reported on page 2 of Caribbean of publication. For example, the with HIV/AIDS have gained the first regional ecumenical (Bulk); 1st Class $35 per year. Today’s Oct. 2007 issue. We regret deadline for articles for Caribbean support from international organization to include the Caribbean Today is not responsible the error. Today’s December 2007 edition for unsolicited manuscripts or photos. To organizations, such as the Catholic Church as a founder must be received no later than guarantee return, please include a self- World Bank. He said sub- member alongside Protestant • Please note: Caribbean Today is November 20, 2007. addressed stamped envelope. stance abuse, narcotic traffick- and Anglican denominations. Articles appearing in Caribbean requesting, effective immediately, ing, the related rise in crimi- Today may not be reproduced without all editorial correspondence be e- ® nality, and the proliferation of ® written permission of the editor.

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November 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 9

VIEWPOINT www.caribbeantoday.com Same knife sticks Needing more than a pound of flesh kinny used to be the sheep, sticks goat? order of the day, but Seven now, models are GORDON WILLIAMS government ordered all foreign coming under fire for being workers in the island without a too bony and need some flesh uring a recent conver- work permit to report to the on their frames - a bit more sation, a Caribbean Ministry of Labour within days than a pound too. Dimmigrant-turned- to secure one or risk being Well, based on the find- United States citizen expressed deported. ings of some scientists, fat is exasperation at the boiling in, and skinny is out. I guess it opposition of some American NOT PLEASED began a while ago when they political commentators to It seems that some started to use not only normal recent attempts to slacken Jamaicans have not been too size women to model clothes, immigration rules in the U.S. pleased about foreigners taking but rather large women too, New York Governor Eliot their jobs in a country mired in calling them outsize or full Spitzer, for example, announced economic malaise. Household bodied ladies, or something recently that his state’s residents and hotel workers, construction like that. Let’s face it though, would no longer be asked to pro- workers, technical experts etc., those models who they usually duce documentation that proves have all come under scrutiny in use are so rail thin and that they are legal residents of the island if they are not bear- anorexic looking that they the U.S. in order to secure a dri- ing a Jamaican passport. seem unnatural. Plus they folks get the that women should fall in love ver’s license. Under severe pres- The labor minister has made so many women go on flu or pop with heavy men because they sure from opponents he later vowed to find illegal workers starvation diets to try and down with are more likely to be faithful backed off this plan.Yet most and root them out. He has also look like them. any other lovers than their thin, svelte immigrants in the U.S., including ordered that jobs filled by for- They seemed as unlikely kind of ill- counterparts. Now that’s heavy those from the Caribbean, have eigners carry a Jamaican under- and unnatural as the clothes ness, they research stuff, which also said eagerly embraced ideas like study, who will be trained for that they modeled. Yet so always draw that men who were of average Spitzer’s. They say hard-working the post for no longer than many of our women would down to skin weight are twice as likely to be people, including thousands of three years. At which point the starve themselves trying to and bone. unfaithful as heavy men. You illegal immigrants from the understudy – a Jamaican – will look like Naomi, Cindy or But if they TONY might think that fat men don’t Caribbean, need these opportu- take over the post, or a new Iman. Unreal, and slim chance had a little ROBINSON have many opportunities to nities to survive and thrive. Most application process will be they had of looking like them extra weight stray, but the research says of those illegal immigrants pay opened. too. So, as a result, they on their that you’d be wrong. Fat men taxes and contribute immensely Jamaica is not the only brought in those portly mod- frame they wouldn’t look so are less likely to cheat on their to the development of the U.S., Caribbean nation fighting the els so that fat people could bad during or after the illness. partners because they are less so why not give them a real shot battle of unauthorized workers identify with them. Now suddenly scientists are inclined to engage in risky sex, at prosperity since they are in its midst. Meanwhile, hun- jumping on granny’s bandwag- plus overweight men are less already in the country? dreds of thousands of Caribbean GOOD NEWS on. That’s why we should likely to visit brothels or call Fair enough. people have fled the region in It seems that there is always listen to old people. sex telephone hotlines. Is this search of a better life in the U.S. more good news for over- But here’s the crunch perhaps linked to their inabili- FLAWED Many could not get jobs in their weight people, as scientific though. The research also ty to beat a hasty retreat if Yet there are others who homeland and were upset that studies are now showing that shows why women should caught? Mark you, this toss out that argument. First of foreigners were often chosen there’s actually an advantage love fat men. Caribbean research was done in Europe, all, they say the U.S. should not over them – even foreigners who to being just a few pounds women were always drawn to and you know we defy all the support people who break the do not have the proper permis- over your ideal weight. You slightly heavier men than their odds and break all the rules law. In addition, the U.S cannot sion to work. Yet many of those may live longer, they say. The skinny counterparts anyway. anyway. back the uncontrolled influx of same Caribbean nationals have Centers for Disease Control No wonder most of the skinny So ladies, before you run illegal immigrants, which they entered the U.S. without proper have determined that while guys that I know can’t get any and marry a fat man, hoping say will increase rapidly if permission to work. They too obesity is indisputably lethal, women. In fact, one even told that he’ll be faithful to you only, states like New York continue now want the rules slackened in people who are modestly me that his wife left him make sure that he’s a fat to make it easy for them to the U.S. to allow them take jobs. overweight actually have a because he was too skinny. European man, for as far as I lower risk of death then those assimilate. Furthermore, if they The voices ring out loudly that “She couldn’t take it when see, fat men in my region run who are underweight. break the law they should not they should be allowed to do so, my bony hips and knees up and down after skirt tails Well, more weight to get a reward, meaning an easier even if it is against the law. knocked up on hers.” just as much as their skinny them, for my granny always life in the U.S. An old Caribbean saying Many women who I know counterparts. They may not run used to say that babies and Illegal aliens, the critics say, warns: “The same knife that speak with affection about as fast because of the weight, people in general should take jobs from legal American sticks sheep, sticks goat”. That their men’s portliness and even but even as they huff and puff, always carry a little extra residents as employers use their is to say that the same thing give names to their bellies. they will waddle after women. weight. “Lord, him can eat yu see, uncertain status to compensate that happens to you can hap- “Pickney must fat, for look pon him belly how it nice NORM them with a fraction of what the pen to me. when dem get sick, there is and round and hefty. Come here Expanding waistlines are jobs would normally pay – at a So now it appears that something to draw pon.” Honey, mek a feel yu belly.” level Americans would accept. some Caribbean immigrants How true it is, for when The study goes on to say Critics also say illegal aliens are would like America to ease up (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) a burden to the U.S. system, on illegal immigrants, especially including health care and edu- in the workplace. I understand cation. their compassion. But are they Yet while many Caribbean also going to demand the same immigrants will support help for stance of the governments in illegal aliens in the U.S., even if their Caribbean homeland? it is against the law, recent It may be too early to tell, but events in their homeland have judging from one conversation shown that the same debate has it does not appear everyone is taken on a different twist. ready to do so. Despite the bold move towards a Caribbean Single Market and Gordon Williams is Caribbean Economy, it seems that the Today’s managing editor. region’s people are not equally eager to encourage unautho- ® rized labor in their own midst. Last month, for example, the new Jamaica Labour Party

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10 CARIBBEAN TODAY November 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com VIEWPOINT Black turnover in the U.S. boardroom After hiring his newspaper’s panies, was going through tough first black journalist to hold a Kenneth times when O’Neal took over. management position, an edi- Chenault of Its stock was down almost 30 tor insisted that the pioneer- American percent. It was cutting jobs ing move was not such a big Express and and trying to rebuild its image deal, as I recall. Real progress AOL Time after paying $100 million to • “She needs any impropriety” – comes not when you are able Warner’s settle state charges of mislead- to go to jail. Barbados Prime Minister to hire a black editor, he said, Richard ing investors by tailoring That’s just how Owen Arthur last month say- but when you also are able to Parsons. That research to please clients. I feel” - ing integrity legislation and fire her. Dec. 2001 CLARENCE With that, I can hear faint Bahamian issues of accountability in The danger of getting cover was an PAGE echoes of my late father’s wry Olympic gold governance will be addressed fired is a sign that you’re encouraging observation: “White folks don’t medalist before the next general elec- accountable. It is evidence sign in that give colored folks nothing until Debbie tions, constitutionally due by that you have been hired for tense post-Sept. 11 season that they’re tired of it!” But, had he Ferguson launching a mid-2008. your ability to help the com- America is a land where any lived long enough to see it, I’m scathing attack on disgraced pany achieve its mission, not kid can grow up to be presi- certain that Ol’ Dad he would sprinter Marion Jones, fol- • “They promised me the for your value as a token. Of dent of, at least, a multi-bil- have smiled with approval at lowing the American’s con- world, but I will not be course, such double standards lion-dollar corporation. how well O’Neal was allowed fession that she used per- tempted” – Trinidad and are not fair. But no one prom- Just six years earlier, Bob to prove himself the old-fash- formance-enhancing drugs. Tobago’s Opposition Leader ises you a rose garden in the Holland broke that glass ceiling ioned way, through grit, deter- Kamla Persad-Bissessar last world of management, except when he was named CEO at mination and the inventiveness • “And it is month claiming that she had maybe if you’re the president Ben & Jerry’s. Unfortunately that Ol’ Dad used to call the prayer of turned down approaches by of the United States - and Holland quit the quirky ice “Mother Wit”. mankind that both the PNM and the COP even that one has plenty of cream company less than The grandson of a man this belated to join them prior to the Nov. thorns. two years later following dis- born a slave, O’Neal grew up momentum has 5 elections, insisting that she Those realities of corpo- agreements with its famous in rural Alabama poverty, as not come too has always been faithful to the rate life sprang to mind when founders. But in one of corpo- my father did. He learned late to reverse UNC. I heard the news from Merrill rate America’s tastiest peace golf, took control of his south- the damage Lynch & Co., Inc., that the offerings, his severance includ- ern drawl through speech already inflicted on our • “The door is still open” - financial giant’s top boss, E. ed endless free pints as a mem- training and worked his way planet” - Vincentian Prime Antigua and Barbuda’s gov- Stanley O’Neal, “has decided ber of the company’s elite “Ice up from a General Motors Minister Dr. Ralph ernment last month saying it to retire from the company, Cream for Life Club”. assembly line to earn a Gonsalves recently applaud- is still willing to find an ami- effective immediately.” In That’s how the Chocolate Harvard MBA. ing the United Nations’ focus cable solution to the ongoing O’Neal’s case, that was corpo- Chip Cookie Dough crumbles The financial media are on climate change and global Internet gaming dispute with rate-speak for, “Don’t let the in corporate life. You benefit calling O’Neal the first chief warming. the United States. door knob hit you where the on your way up and, if you of a Wall Street investment dog should have bit you.” play your cards right, you can bank to be done in by the sub- • “My point is that in life • “We are in a Third World collect a lot more than cookie prime mortgage crisis that’s you will meet obstacles. I country and when we decide DISAPPOINTMENT crumbs on your way out. been making big headlines for believe for us as Hindus it is to put First World legislation O’Neal’s departure is a months. “Last hired, first a good thing” - Inter- we will run into problems” - disappointment to those of us RIGHT DIRECTION fired,” say the cynics in my Religious Organization Minister of Economic who praised his rise after 16 Now, in addition to neighborhood barbershop. President Pundit Mukram Development and Planning years at the company to O’Neal, Time Warner’s But as long as the profits Sirjoo explaining last month Julius Timothy saying last become the first African Parsons also is expected to rolled in, O’Neal apparently why the timing of Trinidad month that Dominica should American to head a major step down soon. That leaves was as free as any other CEO and Tobago’s Nov. 5 general focus more on tackling Wall Street firm. But just as only Chenault still in place to do things his way, for better elections may have been a developmental issues. his rise was a sign of progress, among the Newsweek Three or worse. Worse got him. blessing in disguise. so is his slide out the door, as and only five total African That’s how they play the game • “A change in government, long as it indicates that women American CEOs in the on Wall Street. No one can • “I believe a change in rules” – and minorities have to meet Fortune 500, according to guarantee results, but every- that there Jamaican dancehall artiste the same rigorous profit-mak- Black Enterprise magazine. one deserves to have an equal should be zero Beenie Man speculates why ing standards as white men do. That’s a setback, but the suc- opportunity. tolerance to he faces tax evasion charges O’Neal, you may recall, cess of these pioneers is a sign improper in his home country . shared a stunning Newsweek that history in the long run is © 2007 Clarence Page. financial prac- magazine cover photo with moving in the right direction. Distributed by Tribune Media tices by all Compiled from CMC and two other black CEOs of Like Time Warner and Services, Inc. government other sources. mega-giant Fortune 100 com- American Express, Merrill departments and no minis- ® ters should be involved in ® Needing more than a pound of flesh

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) tainly can’t have AIDS. Lose a has been their curse, and they of husbands who hate it when faithful to me,” said some few pounds though, and see just have to live with it. their wives lose weight, look ladies. becoming the accepted norm, how fast the whispers and mur- Women do see men with good real hot and step out on the So gentlemen, if you want the survey went on to say, murs start. bodies and feel intimidated, town. “Is must man yu want to to find a lady and settle down, adding that while many peo- “Yu nuh see Cedric, how but feel more comfortable catch why yu looking so good,” pack on the pounds of flesh, ple are overweight and seden- him lose weight so fast, nuh with the guy who is a bit over- they have said. So as a result, don’t bother with the gym, eat tary, most aren’t bothered by must AIDS him have?!” weight. the women quit the gym, come all you want, wolf down those it. So while a lot of men still Apparently, those guys “After all, like how him fat off their health program and carbs, build that gut, for clear- go to the gym for a good with the well sculpted and slabba slabba, no other pack on more than a pound of ly that’s what the modern workout, many simply can’t be physiques and Adonis-like woman nah go want him apart flesh to please their men. woman wants. bothered and accept the bodies are intimidating to from me.” And ladies, skinny is out, spread that goes around their women, a fact that I have to Now that’s charity. So I SAFE BET belly is in, and the pound of middle, even before they agree with. As far back as I guess there is some truth to the So the survey concludes flesh is your ticket to love. reach middle age too. can remember, women have research after all. The fat guy that women are of the notion As one man said: “A I still marvel when I see always looked on sculpted might be so grateful for being that guys who are slim and women with meat on her bones young guys with potbellies men and said, “All man like chosen, that he’ll remain faith- trim are so full of themselves, feel comfortable like sofa.” though, which they wear you must have plenty woman ful to her forever, or until he so vain, so self absorbed and Now, he was no Shylock, proudly. It seems to be sort of a running you down, I better loses some weight. By the over confident, that they’ll but he loved his pounds of status symbol, plus it’s also a stay far from you.” same token many men love to eventually stray anyway. flesh. sign that you haven’t got AIDS, “Man like you,” I always keep their women fat, in the So give them the fat, port- as the perception is, if you’re wondered what that meant, belief that no other man will ly, safe men. “Any man who [email protected] fat and healthy, then you cer- but it has been their legacy, it want them. Even now I know look so good will never be ®

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November 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 11

TOURISM/ TRAVEL www.caribbeantoday.com Caribbean to resume relaxed travel arrangements PUERTO RICO, San Juan, agreed on the regional tourism officials also effects. The Caribbean tourism CMC - The relaxed travel single domestic held discussions with the “Suddenly the Caribbean stakeholders also agreed to arrangements, which Caribbean space in order Florida Caribbean Cruise is being punished as a result of amend the constitution of the citizens benefited from during to facilitate Association on a possible part- the activities of more of the CTO to establish a Council of the International Cricket easier travel of nership with the entire region. industrialized countries and so Ministers as the organization’s Council (ICC) Cricket World fans and crick- On the issue of climate we have this idea of having a supreme policy making body; Cup earlier this year, will eters during change and environmental pro- Caribbean sustainable zone the establishment of an inde- resume when the region suc- the cricket tection, the CTO official said and there’s been some pendent research and informa- ceeds in creating a single competition. although the Caribbean was discussion on establishing a tion unit and a plan to launch regional air space, a senior “Part of Vanderpool-Wallace generally not responsible for Caribbean Sustainable Fund in the CTO’s website in other lan- Caribbean tourism official the difficulty in the increase in greenhouse order to move this forward but guages, including Chinese. has said. establishing the single domestic gases and the other major neg- this is obviously in the very Secretary General of space was that unfortunately ative effects of climate change, early stages,” Vanderpool- ® the Caribbean Tourism there were some countries that it was bearing the brunt of the Wallace said. Organization (CTO) Vincent did not require a visa prior to Vanderpool-Wallace told that that required one after- reporters at the 30th annual wards and that created a little MATCHMAKERS CTO conference here that as bit of confusion, but I think part of the proposed single those details are now being regional air space the single worked out,” Vanderpool- domestic space created among Wallace said. the nine host countries of the Cricket World Cup would be ENVIRONMENT eventually be reintroduced. The conference, which was Tourism officials say the held under the theme, “The single regional air space is Next Generation: Learning being established to improve from the Past, Preparing for the the management of interna- Future”, focused on protecting tional and intra-regional air the environment, exploring the services. impact of climate change on the “I am assured that is going region and looking to tourism’s to return first with that group future plans and future leaders. of nine again, but in such a Vanderpool-Wallace said the way that is going to be a great major decision which came out deal easier and will have many of the talks was for the region to more exemptions for many move forward as one Caribbean more countries,” Vanderpool- with the recognition that the Wallace said last month. regional countries also had to Antigua and Barbuda, market themselves as one Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, group. The CTO official said Travel executives gathered recently at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in New York where Barbados tied the knot with its virtual online Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, there was agreement for a cen- connection with Air Jamaica. St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the tral fund in the promotion of the The airline, known as “The Lovebird”, has pledged its troth to Barbados’s new weddings and honeymoons website, Grenadines, and Trinidad and Caribbean. www.IDoBarbados.com. Tobago, as well as Dominica, Vanderpool-Wallace said The new site shows prospective brides and grooms how to satisfy their wedding or honeymoon needs for a romantic and stimulating venue. Among those present at the launch were, from left, Air Jamaica’s Mark Anthony Schlyfer, Erika Cannegieter- Grenada wants Oprah as Smith of Almond Resorts, and the Barbados Tourism Authority’s Richard Williams. part of tourism campaign

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, CMC - The Grenada govern- ment wants popular United States talk show host Oprah Winfrey to visit the island as part of a tourism marketing plan. Tourism Minister Clarice Modeste Curwin said that she has asked Oprah’s father Vernon Winfrey to encourage her daughter to visit the tri- Winfrey island state. “We want more people to Grenadian-born Nashville- be aware of and come to based artiste Joe Country. Grenada,” declared Curwin Oprah made a brief stop during a news conference last in Grenada several years ago month. and on her television talk “And we know that with show highlighted the recon- Mr. Winfrey’s connection, what struction efforts in Grenada more can you have than a following two hurricanes in 10 blood connection with Oprah months. Her father told jour- Winfrey, who has expressed nalists that he would encour- her interest in this country.” age his daughter to visit Winfrey’s father was part Grenada. of a delegation from the U.S. “I would tell her that I visiting Grenada as part of the was here and I enjoyed it and activities marking 24 years I was impressed and I think since U.S. troops invaded the you need to come and see island to restore democratic what I am talking about,” he rule. Others included country said. and western music writer and singer Rae Stephenson, and ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com TOURISM/ TRAVEL Male sex tourists fueling AIDS Barbados expects benefits epidemic in the Caribbean ~ study as Virgin shifts to Heathrow WASHINGTON - A new However, the study enti- Caribbean come from North BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Party adminis- study suggests that male sex tled “Caribbean Pleasure America and Europe and the CMC - Tourism Minister Noel tration said tourists, mainly from the Industry: Tourism, Sexuality, study warned that the local Lynch says Virgin Atlantic’s was losing United States and Europe, and HIV/AIDS in the men who served these male decision to use the Heathrow money. Since may be fuelling an HIV/AIDS Dominican Republic”, shows tourists also had sexual Airport slots it bought from then, the new epidemic in the Caribbean. that sexual contact between encounters with female Air Jamaica to fly to Jamaica The study, conducted by Caribbean male sex workers tourists. Barbados this winter will ben- Labour Party Mark Padilla, a University of and male tourists may be a “Many men are unem- efit the high end of the coun- (JLP) admin- Michigan assistant professor much larger contributor to the ployed from rural areas, and try’s tourism product. istration said it Lynch of public health, also found HIV/AIDS epidemic there they immigrate to tourism “That decision puts us in would seek to that efforts to stop the epi- than previously thought. areas. Very few identify them- a much better position to get review that demic would be severely ham- “Currently, prevention selves as sex workers, and better connections coming out agreement. pered unless HIV prevention dollars in the Caribbean serve most have other income from of that major gateway,” Lynch funds were diverted to help primarily heterosexuals, and tourism”, it stated. said. IMPROVEMENT male prostitutes. this particular population of “Because of social stigma, “We are now in a much Lynch said Virgin Padilla interviewed 298 male sex workers who have these men often do not com- better position, especially Atlantic’s improved service to bisexually-behaving men over sex with tourists is largely neg- municate with female partners when you talk about 747s the island was only part of the a three-year period. lected,” Padilla said. about their involvement in sex coming out of Heathrow, to general improvement in airlift Padilla is also saying that work”. move to the next level in terms from the United Kingdom mar- the study should serve as call WARNING The study urged the stake- of our European businesses,” ket which delivered the vast to action for the tourism indus- He warned the male pros- holders in the tourism sector Lynch said in Parliament on majority of visitors to the island try to implement HIV/AIDS titute population was growing to “prioritize HIV prevention Oct. 30 as the Lower House on a yearly basis. He said cou- prevention programs for larger as the traditional, agri- in any initiative”, adding “they gave its approval to legislation pled with the strength of the tourists and tourism employ- cultural jobs dry up, noting need to be aware that they are aimed at improving security at pound and Euro against the ees. that funding comes from a contributing to a sex economy the Grantley Adams United States dollar, the vital The Caribbean is second variety of sources including that they are indirectly sup- International Airport. tourism sector could look for- only to sub-Saharan Africa in governments, multilateral porting, and to take responsi- Beginning Dec. 11, Virgin ward to a good winter season. HIV/AIDS cases, and the dis- organizations and private bility to provide HIV preven- Atlantic will move its winter “I therefore say we are ease has been described as foundations. tion for these individuals”. flights from the United now in one of the better posi- primarily heterosexual. The majority of the Kingdom from Gatwick to the tions that we have been in tourists coming to the ® busier Heathrow Airport, while recent times to attract more operating its code-sharing visitors from the U.K. and agreement flights to Kingston European markets,” he from out of Gatwick. Last year explained. Bermuda seeking to lure Chinese visitors Virgin Atlantic entered into an “The pound is now very agreement with Jamaica’s strong against the U.S. dollar HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC “For the summer, overall “We want to start chipping national airline to buy that car- and therefore very strong – Premier Ewart Brown says tourist arrivals are up, visitor away at this mission before we rier’s Heathrow slots for £5.1 against ours. So if the U.K. is Bermuda has made a significant spending is up and hotel occu- have the new hotel beds so that million ($10.2 million) and also our number one market, we impression during a global pancy is up. Bermuda is in the when are new hotels are built agreed to fly into Kingston expect to see an influx of visi- tourism summit in China. under a code-sharing agree- tors, even more so than we Brown delivered a keynote ment with Air Jamaica, which saw last year,” Lynch added. address to the conference in the the previous People’s National capital Beijing on Oct. 29 and ® then hosted a dinner for 200 representatives from around the world. “It’s been a fantastic expe- Haiti positions itself rience. It sets the foundation for an eventual relationship with China, and sets up the as tourist destination likelihood that what is now a trickle of business visitors will SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – world,” said grow into a flow,” he later told Haiti is embarking on a project Delatour, who reporters. designed to develop the island’s attended the Brown attended the summit tourism industry, Tourism annual confer- in his capacity as tourism and Minister Patrick Delatour has ence of the transport minister. The summit said. Caribbean was hosted by the Beijing Delatour told the Caribbean Hotel Tourism Administration and Media Corporation (CMC) that Organisation brought together more than 200 the local tourism sector had (CTO) here last Delatour travel and tourism industry lead- Enthusiastic crowds have attended the Bermuda Music Festival. Brown is hoping it will been suffering as a result of the month. ers from 24 nations. attract more Chinese visitors to the country as well. violence that had been affecting the former French colony as well FAST TRACK IDEAS throes of a high-gear tourism we will already have made as the high incidence of the He said that as part of the Brown said prior to the turnaround after almost a inroads with new travelers from HIV/AIDS virus. But he said new plan a number of regions event that he hoped to glean decade stuck in neutral. new markets,” he added. the election of President Réne in the country have been iden- new ideas for expanding “In my beautiful country, But Brown admitting that Prevail a few years ago had tified for development and that Bermuda’s tourism reach and there is limitless potential for the distance between China and resulted in the government plac- would allow Haiti to fast track exploring opportunities for our tourism industry. One of Bermuda would be a challenge ing more emphasis on develop- its return to the competitive joint ventures. He told the del- the reasons I wanted to be here adding “however, we are cer- ing the tourism sector as part of tourism industry. Among the egates about the success of the in Beijing…is because I want to tainly willing to give it a shot. the overall development of the projects identified by Delatour recent high-profile PGA Grand learn a great deal more about We’’d be silly not to. Haitian economy. include the development and Slam tournament at the Mid the Chinese tourist. “People from China like the “At this Caribbean Tourism promotion of the National Ocean Club, which was won by “Like so much of the same things that most visitors Conference meeting we informed History Park at Citadel as the Argentina’s Angel Cabrera, and world, Bermuda wants to tap like about Bermuda — the golf, our fellow tourism ministers from country’s sole World Heritage the Bermuda Music Festival. into this seemingly bottomless spas and locations. When we the English, Dutch, French and site, as well as the $30 million “October turned out to be pool of consumers. It will be an showed our video…there were Spanish speaking Caribbean of re-development of its main sea the exclamation point on a uphill climb, but we’re ready many ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’ in the our intention to integrate our port to accommodate bigger blockbuster summer for us,” for the challenge. And the tim- room and scores of questions.” plan into the markets of the cruise ships by 2009. Brown said. ing is crucial. Caribbean, as well all seek to ® compete with the rest of the ®

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HEALTH www.caribbeantoday.com U.S. issues warning against Prevention steps drug resistant skin infection he Miami-Dade • Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or ealth authorities in draining the pus with or with- County Department razors that come into contact the United States are out antibiotics. More serious Tof Emergency with your bare skin. urging residents to infections, such as pneumonia, Management & Homeland H Security (DEM&HS) and take simple, preventive meas- bloodstream infections or • Place clothing or a towel ures to protect themselves bone infections are very rare the Florida Department of between your skin and against a methicillin-resistant in healthy people who get Health (DOH) are urging shared equipment, such as Staphylococcus aureus MRSA skin infections. residents to take the follow- weight-training benches. (MRSA) skin infection. ing steps to protect them- Several elementary, mid- TRANSMISSION selves against a MRSA • Keep frequently touched dle and high school students MRSA is usually transmit- infection: surfaces clean. in the U.S. have been infected ted by direct skin-to-skin con- recently with MRSA. tact, or touching shared items • Wash your hands regularly • Closely monitor children MRSA is a drug-resistant or surfaces that have come with soap and water or use who participate in sports bacteria that causes red, painful into contact with someone an alcohol-based hand sani- where sweat and other bodi- boils that contain pus. The else’s infection, such as towels tizer. Shower immediately MRSA infection of the hand. ly fluids may be exchanged. infection usually appears near or used bandages. The U.S. after exercising. cuts and scrapes, and areas of Centers for Disease Control and lack of cleanliness. • Clean sports equipment the body covered by hair, such and Prevention has identified Schools, military barracks, • Cover cuts and scrapes between uses. as the back of the neck, groin, five factors that facilitate daycare centers and prisons are with a clean, dry bandage buttocks, armpit or beard. MRSA transmission: crowd- examples of places where these until healed. ® MRSA infections are ing, frequent skin-to-skin con- factors are most common. rarely fatal, and nearly all tact, compromised skin, con- infections can be treated by taminated items and surfaces, ® Antigua on course for universal care for persons with HIV/AIDS ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, the Caribbean’s response to the incidences CMC - Health Minister John HIV/AIDS pandemic. of AIDS do Maginley says Antigua and not continue Barbuda hopes by the year BUILDING BLOCKS to increase. So 2010 to provide universal Maginley told the meeting we need to health care for persons living that the authorities here “now now refocus with HIV and AIDS. have in place all the building on prevention. Maginley told a meeting of blocks on which to deliver and We’ve been the Pan Caribbean Partnership to get universal access. doing quite a Maginley against HIV and AIDS (PAN- “We think we have the lot of work CAP) that the island had been team in place and with the with in terms care with non receiving assistance from a support of our aid agencies, governmental organizations number of partner agencies as and UNAIDS and PAHO and the faith-based organiza- it moves towards achieving the (Pan American Health tions.” goal of universal health care. Organization), we can achieve More than 100 delegates the goal of universal access by CHALLENGES attended the two-day meeting 2010,” he said. According to the health last month. It was held under For the past two years, minister, the movement of the theme “Universal Access the public healthcare system people throughout the regions by 2010: Ensuring Success” has been providing free anti- poses its own set of challenges and meeting examines the retroviral therapy for more for effectively providing progress made in implement- than 140 persons living with healthcare. ing the Caribbean Regional HIV/AIDS. But Maginley said “Movement of people in Strategic Framework on there were several other areas the region means that many HIV/AIDS (CRSF). that still needed attention. persons seeking healthcare PANCAP, established in “Universal access also may be our Caribbean neigh- 2001 and coordinated by the talks about prevention, care bors and this can place a Caribbean community and support. We still have to heavy burden on our health- (CARICOM) Secretariat, is work on those areas,” he said. care system,” he explained. the regional mechanism “We want to make sure responsible for coordinating that while we treat people that ®

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CARIBBEAN FOODS www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today feature Food glossary The following is a list of foods favored by Caribbean flavor spices up American seafood diner’s new menu people from the Caribbean: Ackee GORDON WILLIAMS marmalade sauce, island displayed prominently in the Popular breakfast food throughout Jamaica. chicken and shrimp skew- restaurants and flyers across ers with Jamaican jerk the country. The promotion, Breadfruit A major American restaurant Breadfruit is typically served - baked, grilled, franchise has added some dis- seasoning, a fish and which began on Oct. 29, is fried, boiled or roasted - with meat. tinct Caribbean flavor to its coconut shrimp dinner, expected to run for about nine also served with mar- weeks. If the Caribbean flavor Callaloo menu. Spinach-like vegetable is prepared as turnip “Captain D’s Seafood”, malade sauce, an island proves a hit with diners, it or collard greens. a well-known chain in the chicken dinner and a could land on the menu per- United States, has introduced mahi mahi dinner. manently. Coo-coo (or cou-cou) The restaurant chain “If the items become The Caribbean equivalent of polenta or grits; several Caribbean treats to now made almost exclusively with cornmeal. the public. serves the shrimp basket popular they will be moved Versatile coo-coo can be baked, fried or “Caribbean flavors are with fries. The island to the main menu,” said Mike rolled into little balls and poached in soups very hot now,” Mark Miller, chicken dinner comes Shannon, Captain D’s director or stews. director of research and with rice, corn, salad and Captain D’s coconut shrimp. of brand marketing. Dhal development for Captain D’s, bread, while the shrimp According to Miller, the Hindu name for legumes; in the Caribbean, it from a focus group conducted explained to Caribbean Today dinner is served with coleslaw restaurant chain had “played refers only to split peas or lentils. by Captain D’s several months when asked about the chain’s and fries. around” with the idea of intro- ago. They are being adver- Dasheen decision to spice up its menu. ducing coconut shrimp on the tised as part of a Captain D’s Also known a coco, taro and tannia, usually Among the offerings PROMOTION menu over the past 18 months. served boiled or cut up and used as a thick- “Island Fest” promotional available to diners are a The new additions to the It is already a popular treat at ener in hearty soups. campaign, Caribbean Today coconut shrimp basket with menu came out of responses other American restaurant understands, which is being Escabeche (or ‘escoveitch’) chains. Captain D’s is optimistic Usually refers to fresh fish (and sometimes the new flavors will do well. poultry) that is fried, then picked in vinegar, St. Kitts and Nevis places hold on “We’re hoping it will start spices, hot peppers and oil. to catch on in a week or so,” a Goat Captain D’s employee in Curried goat is a Caribbean classic. Most first-timers find goat milder in flavor than prices of baked products lamb and an excellent substitute for lamb in (CONTINUED ON PAGE 15) most recipes.

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, a Cabinet paper said, noting Mango CMC – The government here that bakers had requested an Food share “The fruit of the tropics” is used in a variety has given consumers the assur- increase in the cost of prod- of ways in the Caribbean, including in hot Miami-Dade County Mayor sauces and condiments, in desserts, candies ance that the price of baked ucts commensurate with the and drinks. goods will not be increased increase in the price of flour Carlos Alvarez will join Farm until next year, even in the purchased from overseas. Share to distribute food at 10 Saltfish: a.m. Nov. 14, at 14125 S.W. Saltfish is any fried, salted fish, but most face of rapidly rising flour Recently consumers in often cod. prices. neighboring Antigua and 320 St., Homestead, to more The Denzil Douglas Barbuda were hit by a 20 per- than 900 pre-registered fami- Sorrel administration noted last cent hike in the price of bread lies in preparation of the A tropical flower used to flavor dinks, jams Thanksgiving holiday this and sauces, especially during Christmas month that bakers in the twin- and other baked products. season. island federation had agreed The government there said the month. to hold prices constant until decision to grant the increase For more information, Tamarind: contact Farm Share at 305- Brown pods containing a sweet and tangy the end of the first quarter of reached a settlement with was based a 13.3 percent pulp. next year. increase in the price of flour. 248-3006 or visit local bakers on the price of www.farmshare.org. “After three weeks of bread and other baked goods ® Edited from UniChef.com negotiations, government has consumed by the local public”, ® ® Salmon, salad and sauce for a spectacular outdoor grill WOLFGANG PUCK salmon, which is so if you want to be more casual, butter much lighter, cleaner- cook the salmon in advance, Many dedicated outdoor tasting, and more deli- either half an hour or so before, CUCUMBER-YOGURT cooks are looking for one last cate than the farm- and serve it at room tempera- SAUCE spectacular dish to prepare raised salmon served so ture, or make it a day ahead, • 4 to 6 English cucumbers with their outdoor grill. often today. Seasoned and serve it cold from the • 1/2 cup (125ml) plain yogurt Think simple. Think only with salt and pep- refrigerator. Don’t want • 1/2 cup (125ml) crème flexible. per and a little olive salmon? Try any other fresh fraîche Too many cooks, both at oil, it’s perfect for the fish you prefer, or shrimp or • Juice and grated zest of 2 home and in restaurant grill, especially if you scallops, or grilled chicken or lemons kitchens, make the mistake of take care not to over- lamb. • 1/2 cup (125 ml) chopped believing that impressive food cook it. (My tip: It’s Any approach will yield fresh dill has to be complicated food. Grilled salmon. done to perfection impressive results. • 1/2 medium red onion, cut Sometimes the most impres- when it still yields a bit into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice sive food is the simplest. The color on the outside while to light fingertip pressure; if FINGERLING POTATO • Salt key is to start with the best they stay moist and flavorful you let it cook until firm, it’s SALAD • Freshly ground black pepper ingredients, whether it’s a within? What more do you overcooked.) • 1 pound (500g) fingerling prime steak or an ocean-fresh need to complement such sim- The bed of warm potato potatoes or other small GRILLED SALMON fish fillet, an organically grown ple food than a good side dish salad the grilled fish rests boiling potatoes • 4 fresh wild salmon fillets, vegetable from the farmers’ and a simple sauce, also made upon can be made several • Water each about 6 ounces (180g) market (or your own garden) with the best ingredients? hours ahead and reheated just • Salt • Extra-virgin olive oil, for or a juicy summer fruit recent- before serving, another con- • 1 cup (250ml) champagne brushing ly picked from the tree. FLEXIBILITY venience. And the cool vinegar • Salt Simple cooking is also Which brings me to the cucumber-yogurt sauce takes • 1 tablespoon sugar • Freshly ground black pepper often the best way to highlight matter of flexibility and only minutes to prepare. • Freshly ground black pepper • 4 dill sprigs, for garnish top-quality ingredients. What today’s reciie: Grilled Salmon Then there’s the recipe’s • 1/2 medium red onion, cut could be simpler than placing with cucumber-yogurt sauce flexibility. You can follow it pre- into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice METHOD pieces of food over white-hot and warm fingerling potato cisely and serve it as described: • 1 cup (250 ml) good-quality Several hours before serv- charcoals and letting them salad. warm potato salad, hot-off-the- canned chicken broth Start with the fresh wild sear to a deep golden-brown grill salmon and cold sauce. But • 2 tablespoons unsalted (CONTINUED ON PAGE 15)

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CARIBBEAN FOODS www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today feature Caribbean ‘Veggie Fest’ set for Jamaica in 2008 Italy funds Caribbean vegetarian-only event, include: ackee gour- conscious of vegetarian needs, food security for health conscious met, vegetarian pies, thus exposing them to a vari- BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, Apeople will be held cassava and potato ety of healthy menu choices.” CMC – Caribbean countries are next year in the Caribbean. pudding, fruit and The festival, which is free getting special assistance to pro- The two-day “Caribbean vegetable juices, veg- and open to the public, will mote food security after Italy Veggie Fest 2008”is scheduled etable-based ice announced additional financing for Mar. 1-2 at the Rhodes cream, vegetarian to a Food and Agriculture Hall Plantation located in sandwiches and burg- Organization (FAO) project Green Island, Hanover, ers, vegetarian soups that would allow regional Jamaica. and wraps, energy states to take advantage of The festival, being pre- juices, garden salads, trade liberalization policies. sented by Positive Tourism vegetarian pizza, veg- The FAO project, Network in association with etable run-down and “Promoting CARICOM/- CARIFORUM Food Security”, the Caribbean Health Tourism A vegetarian pizza. vegetarian one-pot was originally due to last four & Spa Conference, will focus cooking. years, but it has been extended on available vegetarian foods vegetarian restaurants, vege- “I have long held this tarian food purveyors, juice vision of creating a veggie fes- for another three years to 2010. in the Caribbean, including Italy, which provided initial makers, natural seasoning pro- tival where people can eat five star gourmet prepara- funding of approximately $5 tions, raw foods, healthy ducers and a farmers market. wholesome and satisfying Veggie Fest 2008 plans to million, has agreed to provide juices, natural pies, natural foods,” said Theo Chambers, an additional $3.3 million for deal with earth-grown derived Natural juices. herbs and spices, natural one of the organizers of the the second phase. wines (yam and ginger). foods, which will be prepared festival, “where hoteliers and The countries involved in the Exhibiters will include and exhibited. Examples restaurateurs become more facilitate sharing of ideas project are Antigua and Barbuda, amongst participants. The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, For more information, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, e-mail address Tanika@ Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and GRACE GASTRIC DELIGHTS Caribbeanveggiefest.com or Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and call 876-957-9243. Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and the Dominican ® Republic. ® Salmon, salad and sauce for a spectacular outdoor grill (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14) In a mixing bowl, stir together the yogurt, crème ing, make the potato salad. fraîche, lemon juice and zest, Rinse the potatoes, leaving dill and red onion. Stir togeth- their skins on. Put them in a er, then fold in the cucumber saucepan with enough cold and season to taste with salt water to cover well and add a and pepper. Cover with plastic sprinkling of salt. wrap and refrigerate. Bring to a boil over high For the salmon, preheat heat, and then adjust the heat an outdoor or indoor charcoal to maintain a steady boil and or gas grill. Brush the salmon cook until the potatoes are fillets on both sides with olive just tender enough to be oil and season lightly with salt pierced easily with a long and pepper. Grill to the metal skewer, about 15 min- desired degree of doneness, utes. about four minutes per side Drain well, transfer to a per inch of thickness for medi- large mixing bowl filled with um, five minutes per side for ice and water, and leave until cooked through but still moist. thoroughly cooled, about 30 Meanwhile, put the potato minutes. salad in a sauté pan with the Meanwhile, in another chicken broth and butter and mixing bowl, stir together the cook over medium heat, stir- - Photograph by SoHo Photo vinegar, sugar, and salt and Elsie Foster Dublin, left, council president, Borough of Highland Park, New Jersey, and Dr. Una S.T. Clarke, former New York city ring occasionally, until heated pepper to taste. Peel the pota- councilwoman, sample offerings from GraceKennedy Caribbean Tradition Brand Entrees last month in the United States. Dublin through. Taste and adjust the toes, using your fingertips and, and Clarke were chosen from the audience at the Jamaican Consulate in New York. Jamaican-based GraceKennedy rolled out the seasonings with more salt and if necessary, a small, sharp first four entrees - curried chicken/white rice, curried shrimp/white rice, jerk chicken/rice and peas and oxtail/rice and peas – pepper, if necessary. knife to slip off their skins. which are being packaged for overseas markets. To serve, spoon the potato Cut each potato crosswise into salad onto four serving plates discs about a quarter inch to form even beds. Place a thick and add them to the salmon fillet on top of each. Caribbean flavor spices up American seafood diner’s new menu vinegar mixture. Add the red Spoon some of the cool and Applebees have featured And while Caribbean dishes onion, toss gently, cover with (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14) cucumber sauce over each fil- Caribbean flavored dishes. at U.S. restaurant chains were plastic wrap and marinate in let and around the plate, Georgia told Caribbean According to Captain D’s cor- once restricted to summer, the the refrigerator for three to transferring the rest to a serv- Today last month. porate officers, Americans popularity of the flavors four hours. ing bowl to pass at table. who travel to the Caribbean appears to be warming up About an hour before serv- Garnish each serving with a OTHERS often return to suggest to U.S. colder months as well. ing, prepare the cucumber- dill sprig. Serve immediately. However, Captain D’s is restaurants dishes they had yogurt sauce. Cut each cucum- not the only American chain tried – and liked – in the Gordon Williams is Caribbean ber in half lengthwise and scoop © 2007 Wolfgang Puck to add Caribbean flavor to its region. Today’s managing editor. out the seeds. Cut each half Worldwide. Distributed by menu, whether long or short “People are being more lengthwise into strips a quarter Tribune Media Services, Inc. term. Other chains like Red and more exposed to these ® inch wide, then cut across to Lobster, Buffalo Wild Wings flavors,” Miller explained. make dice the same size. ®

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CARIBBEAN FOODS www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today feature Recipes Island shrimp with calypso Method and one tablespoon of butter in occasionally, until tender and mixture, top with whipped cream rice and heart of Florida salad Combine mojo, olive oil and microwave-safe bowl. Cover and browned. Can be set aside until and serve. honey in a salad bowl. microwave on high for three ready to serve. Cut tomatoes and one-half minutes or until boiling. Stir in Spoon pears over cheese ® cucumber into bite-size pieces; couscous mix; cover and let add with remaining ingredients stand. to dressing. Remove crab cakes from Cou cou and flying fish Stir until well coated. Chill pan and cover to keep warm. until ready to serve. Add remaining one tablespoon Method of butter to pan. Crush garlic, Marinate the Publix Apron’s Simple Meals using garlic press, into pan. Use fish in the salt and Nested crab cakes with couscous, knife to remove garlic from bot- lime juice for 10 pears and gorgonzola cream tom of press. minutes. Rinse the Cook one to two minutes fish and pat dry Ingredients – crab cakes with until browned. Add remaining with paper towels, Ingredients – shrimp and rice couscous ingredients, cover, and cook one then rub in the • 2 (8 oz.) packages frozen island • 4 (3 oz.) frozen lump crab to two minutes, stirring occasion- Barbadian season- lime shrimp cakes ally, until spinach is hot and ten- ing and leave to • 1 cup frozen petite peas • 1/4 cup butter, divided der. Form nests of spinach and marinate for an • 1/4 cup pre-diced red onions • 1 1/4 cups water top with crab cakes. Fluff cous- hour. • 2 tablespoons sofrito (Spanish • 1 (5.8 oz.) package roasted cous with fork and serve. Roll each fish cooking sauce) garlic/olive oil couscous into a sausage • 2 (8.8 oz.) pouches pre-cooked • 2 cloves fresh garlic Pears with gorgonzola cream shape, starting yellow rice Cou-cou with the tail. Ingredients Heat the margarine in a Method • 1 lemon for zest (rinsed) Ingredients saucepan and sauté the onion Place shrimp in large sauté pan • 3/4 cup part-skim ricotta • 1 lb. corn meal and garlic until the onions on medium heat. Cook 10 to 12 cheese • 1/4 pod chopped garlic become transparent. minutes, stirring occasionally, or • 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola • 16 oz. cold water Add the tomato and pars- until shrimp are pink and sauce cheese • 2 teaspoon chopped herbs ley and continue to cook for is slightly thickened. • 1/4 cup whipped cream cheese • 8 oz. okras two minutes. Tie the thyme and Meanwhile, combine peas, spread • 2 oz. butter marjoram together and add to onions and sofrito in microwave- • 1/4 cup honey • 16 oz. water the pan together with the safe bowl. Cover and microwave on • 4 medium or large pears • 1 teaspoon salt remaining ingredients. high for four minutes or until hot. (rinsed) • 2 oz. chopped onions Place rolled fish on mixture Stir in rice and microwave • 1 tablespoon of butter in pan, reduce heat, cover and on high two to three more min- • 2 cups tightly packed fresh • 2 tablespoons of cinnamon Method simmer for 10 minutes until fish utes or until rice is thoroughly spinach sugar Soak cornmeal in cold water is cooked. heated. Stir rice; spoon shrimp • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup pressurized whipped for five minutes. Taste sauce and adjust fla- mixture over rice and serve. heavy cream (optional) Combine okras, salt, vor to taste. Note: Sofrito is a cooking Method onions, garlic and herbs in Serve with cou cou. sauce made from tomatoes, gar- Place crab cakes on microwave- Method saucepan and bring to a boil. lic, peppers and spices. It is used safe plate; heat in microwave on Peel one to two strips of lemon Reduce heat and let simmer for as a flavoring ingredient in many defrost (30% power) two min- peel with vegetable peeler (or 10 minutes. Strain off okras and Fried flying fish Caribbean recipes. utes or until thawed. zester). Finely chop, then meas- hold. Preheat large sauté pan on ure (one teaspoon). Add to In a thick bottom Ingredients Heart of Florida salad medium heat two to three min- medium bowl; add all cheeses saucepan, over a low flame put • 8 flying fish fillets utes. Place one tablespoon but- and honey. the soaked cornmeal and half • Few drops of lime juice Ingredients ter in pan and swirl to coat; gen- Whisk one to two minutes of the okra liquid. Stir constant- • 1 small onion • 1/4 cup mojo marinade tly add crab cakes and cook five until smooth and well blended. ly with a whisk. Add in stages • 1 egg beaten • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin minutes. Divide into serving bowls and the remaining okra liquid. • 1 small green pepper chopped olive oil Add one tablespoon of but- chill until ready to serve. Continue to stir and allow to • Seasoned bread crumbs • 1 tablespoon honey ter and turn crab cakes. Reduce Peel pears, remove core and steam until corn meal is totally • 1 blade chives chopped • 2 medium tomatoes (rinsed) heat to medium-low and cook six cut into bite-size pieces. cooked. • Oil for frying • 1 seedless cucumber (rinsed) more minutes or until internal Preheat large sauté pan on Add okra and butter. Mix • Thyme and parsley • 1 (14-ounce) can cut hearts of temperature reaches 165 degrees medium two to three minutes. well and serve with your • 2 limes wedged palm (drained) Farenheit. Use a meat ther- Add butter (swirl to coat), add favorite sauce or steam flying • Salt and pepper • 2 tablespoons sliced black mometer to accurately ensure pears, and sprinkle with cinna- fish. olives doneness. mon sugar. Cover and cook for Meanwhile, combine water six to eight minutes, stirring Steamed flying fish Method Marinate the fish in the salt and Barbadian fruit cake Ingredients lime juice for 10 minutes. Rinse • 8 flying fish fillets the fish and pat dry with paper • 3 oz. brown rum break eggs into a mixing bowl • 1 teaspoon parsley chopped towels. • 4 oz. self rising flour and beat together with • 3 limes Mix the seasoning ingredi- • 3 oz. red wine essence. • 1 large tomato chopped ents and spread over the meaty • 1 teaspoon baking powder When fruit is cool fold in • 1 tablespoon salt side of the fish. Leave for about • 3 oz. brown sugar beaten eggs, flour and baking • 1 teaspoon limejuice an hour to marinate. powder. • 3 tablespoons Barbadian sea- Dip the fish into the beaten Method Grease a six compartment soning egg and then into the bread Add fruit and alcohol to muffin pan or sheet pan and • 2 cups water crumbs. blender, and blend until add mixture. • 1 large onion sliced Fry gently on each side smooth. Heat oven to temperature • 1/2 tsp hot pepper sauce until golden brown. Serve with Heat a sauce pan and add 350 degrees and place mixture • 6 cloves garlic minced a wedge of lime. blended fruit mixture to it. in for 20 to 25 minutes. • ? tsp curry powder Ingredients Allow fruit to cook until acidi- • 1 green bell pepper cut in juli- Compliments of the Barbados • 3 oz. raisins ty has reduced, then add sugar Submitted by chef Creig enne strips Hotel and Tourism Association • 1 teaspoon mixed essence and butter. Greenidge from Sandridge • 3 tablespoons margarine (BHTA). • 2 oz. cherries Remove fruit from stove Hotel. Obtained from • 1/2 oz. fresh thyme • 3 whole eggs and allow too cool for 10 min- www.tasteofbarbados.com • Seasoned salt to taste ® • 2 oz. pitted prunes utes. • 1/2 oz fresh marjoram • 3 oz. unsalted butter While fruit is cooling ®

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November 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 17

FYI www.caribbeantoday.com CARIBBEAN CONFAB Other invited speakers guage christian talk format. partnership with Burger King, staged Nov. 23 and 24 at the Prime Minister Hubbert include Charles Rangel, U.S. The station, which offered Memorial Plan, Corporate Broward Center for the Ingraham of The Bahamas congressman; Luis Alberto the longest running Caribbean Staffing and Denny’s, will host a Performing Arts in Fort will deliver a keynote address, Moreno, president, Inter- programming in South Job fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lauderdale, Florida. and receive the Star of the American Development Florida, has featured hosts Nov. 14 in South Florida. The theater is located at Caribbean Bank; Dan Sullivan, assistant such as Jamaicans Eddy Job seekers will have the 201 S.W. Fifth Ave. For more Award, during secretary, U.S. Department of Edwards, Mike Andrews and opportunity to interview for a information, call 954-462-0222, the 31st State; and Carlos Gutierrez, Don Daly over the years. variety of positions that toll free 877-311-7469 or visit Caribbean secretary, U.S. Department of The new Caribbean include, but may not be limit- www.browardcenter.org. Central Commerce, among others. Saturday’s line up is as follows: ed to, managers and assistant American For more information on • 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. - Caribbean managers, sales and other CARIBBEAN PAGEANT Action confer- the conference, visit Upliftment Program with Don administrative and clerical The seventh annual Miss ence Dec. 3-5 http://www.c-caa.org/. Daly; positions which are available Florida Caribbean pageant at the Inter- • 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. - Caribbean in South Florida. will be staged at 6 p.m. Nov. Continental Hotel in Miami, RADIO CHANGES Riddims hosted by Eddy The event will be held at 18 at the Hilton Fort Florida. Radio station 1080 AM, the Edwards; and the Little Havana Career Lauderdale Airport Hotel, The Star of the Caribbean home for Caribbean Saturdays • 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. - South Center, 701 S.W. 27th Ave., 1870 Griffin Rd., Dania Award is given in recognition for more than two decades, Florida Caribbean Sportsline. Little Havana, Miami. Beach, Florida. of distinguished service and has been bought by California- The Caribbean It is free and open to the For more information, committed efforts to improve based Salem Communications Connection Show with Mike public. For more information, contact Jannice F. Davis at 954- the economic well being of the for more than $12 million. Andrews will air on 1580 AM call 305-594-7615. 882-2729 or visit www.miss- people of the Caribbean According to a recent from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. floridacaribbean.com. Basin. press release, issued last JAMAICAN DRAMA CCAA’s Miami Conference month, under the new owner- JOB FAIR “Jamaica Farewell”, a play ® focuses specific attention on the ship, the format has The South Florida Workforce written and performed by smaller economies of the changed to an English lan- Little Havana Career Center, in Debra Ehrhardt, will be Caribbean and Central America. Invited heads of state for this year’s Conference include Denzil Douglas, prime minister of St. Kitts and Nevis; Nelson Oduber, prime minister of Aruba; Leonel Fernandez, president of the Dominican Republic; Martin Torrijos Espino, president of Panama; Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, presi- dent of Brazil; Stephen Harper, prime minister of Canada; Oscar Arias, president of Costa Rica; and John de Jongh, gov- ernor of the United States Virgin Islands.

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18 CARIBBEAN TODAY November 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com LOCAL HIV/AIDS study sparks among Haitians, researchers Marriage can change U.S. status, but

NELSON KING and unfairly treated. ure out who Patient Zero was “People are going crazy,” but there are doubts,” he said. baby may not offer the same privilege MIAMI – A new scientific find- said Dr. Laurinus Pierre, execu- Question: I recently got married ing that HIV/AIDS came to the tive director of the Center for ‘PATIENT ZERO’ to a United States citizen. We are United States from Africa via Haitian Studies in Little Haiti The Patient Zero theory in the process of filing my paper- Haiti has spurred controversy in Miami, stating that he has came from a misrepresentation work, but have not completed it among researchers and battled stigmas against Haitians for Patient O, for “Out of and I have overstayed my visa. I Haitians here. from the first days of California”, where early research would like to know about any Published in Monday’s HIV/AIDS. on AIDS by the CDC suggested fines I may have to pay? Proceedings of the National In Feb. 1990, a U.S. Food HIV in the U.S. spread in the Academy of Sciences, the study and Drug Administration late 1970s, early 1980s from one Answer: The fact that you have seeks to better explain the ori- (FDA) policy prohibited man in California. According to fallen in love and got married to gin of HIV/AIDS. The study, Haitians from donating blood the work of Worobey and col- a U.S. citizen, allows you the titled “The emergence of in the U.S., triggering scores of leagues, the strain that came to opportunity of adjusting your HIV/AIDS in the Americas”, protests and boycotts of blood the U.S. in 1969 was HIV-1 status in the U.S., says Irwine 21, an employer or sibling, you stated the virus that causes drives. But by Dec. 1990, the group M, subtype B; and is the Clare, immigration counselor cannot legally work in the U.S., AIDS, probably came into FDA rescinded that policy and first discovered human immun- and managing director of the says Clare. America from Haiti around developed a more rigorous odeficiency virus. Caribbean Immigrant Services. Additionally, if you are a 1969, a decade earlier than screening of all blood donors. “This strain is the most Further, being inspected by an highly skilled immigrant, you most scientists believed. “This does a disservice dominant of the AIDS strains immigration officer upon entry may be eligible for a H-1B visa. “Our results show that the to the Haitian community, that exist in most countries out- into the U.S. ensures you won’t H-1B status, however, requires strain of virus that spawned the who feel like they already side of sub-Saharan Africa, have to pay any fines or penalty. a sponsoring U.S. employer. U.S. AIDS epidemic probably went through this 20 years nearly all of which descended The application fees you will The employer must file a labor arrived in or around 1969,” said ago,” said Dr. Paul Farmer, a from the one that came out of pay are as follows: application condition application with the Michael Worobey, an assistant professor of medical anthropol- Haiti,” the researchers said. fee - $355; adjustment of status - Department of Labor attesting professor of ecology and evolu- ogy at Harvard University. Pitchenik said the study $1,010; and employment authori- to several items, including pay- tionary biology at The “This is very slender evi- has “nothing to do with race or zation fee - $340. ment of prevailing wages for the University of Arizona in Tucson, dence on which to base such a sex or color of skin,” adding: Within 90 days you should position, and the working condi- the study’s principal author. grand claim,” added Farmer, “We should not stigmatize any have employment authorization, tions offered. The employer who is also a founder of particular group. which allows you to apply for must then file the certified LCA ‘GOING CRAZY’ Partners in Health, an interna- “It’s not whether you’re your Social Security number. with a Form I-129 petition, plus But the new findings have tional research and aid organi- Haitian or homosexual,” he Within three to six” months you an accompanying fee of $130. drawn outrage from the Haitian zation active in fighting AIDS added. should an interview for perma- Based on the USCIS petition nent residence and “Green community here and have in Haiti. “It’s the high-risk behavior approval, the migrant may apply Card”. Maintain your marriage sought to reopen deep wounds “I don’t think this is very you engage in, whether you for the H-1B visa, admission, or a and good luck. over the U.S. medical commu- helpful,” said Dr. Jeffrey have unprotected sex, whether change of nonimmigrant status. nity’s alleged role in fostering a Laurence, a professor of medicine you’re a drug user sharing nee- at the Weill Medical College of dles,” he continued. Q: I am in the U.S. on a B1/B2 Compiled by Felicia Persaud. stigma against nationals from visa and I gave birth to my son the French-speaking Caribbean Cornell University in New York. The answers provided here are “People love to play histo- ® here. Am I eligible to obtain a for information purposes only island. Many Haitians said they work permit, so I can work and are tired of being stereotyped ry, and it would be great to fig- and do not create an attorney- live here to support my child? client relationship; nor are they a substitute for legal advice, A: The answer is no. Unless you which can only be given by a Caribbean, Florida agree to greater co-operation are married to a U.S. citizen, or competent attorney after review- have been sponsored by a natu- ing all the facts of the case. greater level of co- Ricardo to scholarships for Caribbean ralized citizen parent, child over operation between the Allicock, students at educational institu- ® ACaribbean and Florida Jamaica’s tions throughout the state. was established following a consul gener- Presently, a large number of Social Security benefits visit last month of CARICOM al in Miami, the student enrolment in diplomats to the governor of who is also several tertiary institutions the southern U.S. state. chair of the in Florida are Caribbean available for disabled military At a meeting with CARICOM nationals. ocial Security has proce- handling, according to the Governor Charlie Crist, and a Diplomatic On the matter of immigra- dures in place to expe- agency. delegation of consuls general Corp in Allicock tion, the delegation explained Sdite survivor’s applica- For Social Security dis- representing the CARICOM South to the governor how those poli- tions and disability claims that ability applications, the member countries in the south- Florida, described the meeting cies negatively impacted the apply to any injured military agency’s goal is to schedule an ern United States, it was agreed as successful, noting that the Caribbean community, especial- service member, regardless of appointment within three that several trade delegations to delegation was reassured that, ly in the area of deportation. where the injury occurred, working days of the initial CARICOM states would be at the highest level, Florida Pointing to the joint pro- according to Michael J. telephone call, or to have the established in the near future, indicated strong interest in grams between the FDLE and Astrue, commissioner of local office call the service beginning with the larger mar- partnering with CARICOM the Jamaica Constabulary Social Security. member within two days to kets of Trinidad and Jamaica. and its diaspora. Force (JCF), the governor “I want to assure the start the disability process. The meeting, held at the Also resulting from the lauded the partnership of offi- brave men and women of (the Disability claims filed online state capitol office in meeting, was an agreement cers for the liaison efforts in United States) Armed Forces at www.socialsecurity.gov are Tallahassee on Oct. 25, includ- for follow-up discussions law enforcement activities in and their families that they also expedited. ed representatives from the “hopeful that there would be both regions. In addition, it will not have to wait for This applies to military Department of Tourism, Trade appreciable and positive was further agreed that semi- these needed benefits,” said service members who become and Economic Development results over the next year,” nars would be hosted for sen- Commissioner Astrue. “The disabled in the line of duty on and Florida Department of said Allicock. ior representatives of Florida special process is just one way or after Oct. 1, 2001. The Law Enforcement (FDLE). According to Allicock, law enforcement agencies to Social Security can show our expedited process is invoked the discussions were centered further sensitize them to the military personnel how much regardless of where the dis- FUTURE TALKS around CARICOM’s trade cultural behavioral nuances of we appreciate their service.” ability occurred, whether in It was also agreed that relationship with Florida, the Caribbean community. For people applying for the U.S., Iraq, Afghanistan, or there would be discussions the positive impact of the The CARICOM delega- survivor’s benefits using Social on other foreign soil during with Caribbean in-state agen- Caribbean business communi- tion included Edward Bushell Security’s toll-free number, 1- active military service. cies and promoters of cultural ty on the state’s economy, of Barbados, Alma Adams of 800-772-1213 - there is a spe- For more information events, such as the annual education initiatives, technical The Bahamas, Gerard Greene cially-dedicated immediate about Social Security sur- Caribbean carnival and the cooperation and immigration of Trinidad and Tobago, claims taking unit that vivors and disability benefits, annual jerk festival, to address matters. Ralph Latortue of Haiti, and processes an application at the visit www.socialsecurity.gov ways that the state can incor- Regarding education, the Ian Sweeney of Antigua. time of contact. Those appli- or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1- porate those activities into the delegation expressed to the cations received in a local 800-325-0778). general roster of tourist governor an interest in acquir- - JIS Social Security office also are attractions in Florida. ing and creating greater access ® expedited and given priority ®

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November 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 19

ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT www.caribbeantoday.com Dancehall star ‘Beenie Man’ Soulful line-up for Cayman jazz

merican R&B singer McKnight and other interna- faces tax evasion charges Brian McKnight, soul- tionally acclaimed jazz and KINGSTON, Jamaica - Vibes for the situation. ment want me for so much Aful crooner Joe, R&B artists, Jazz Fest 2007 is International dancehall enter- Beenie Man who is due to money,” he reportedly said Jamaican jazz pianist Monty going to be another great tainer Moses Davis, popularly reappear in court on Dec. 3, before arriving in Jamaica. “A Alexander and international event,” said Cayman’s Minister known as “Beenie Man”, said he is being targeted by change in government, a gospel headliner BeBe of Tourism Charles Clifford. was granted J$1.5 million change in rules.” Winans are among the sched- “Based on the positive ($21,000) bail after he However, the ruling JLP uled headlin- feedback received from visi- appeared in court on tax eva- government has dismissed ers for the tors and residents after Jazz sion charges late last month. Beenie Man’s claim that it is three-day Fest 2006 – one influential Earlier in October, a court responsible for him being Cayman journalist describing it as a had issued an arrest warrant charged with tax evasion. Jazz Festival ‘gem’ of a festival, I am confi- for the artiste after he failed “Misguided, mischievous set to begin dent that we will see an to appear before the Tax and absurd”, the party said in this month increase in attendance over Court to answer the charges. a statement on Oct. 30 in in Grand previous years. The event also Beenie Man, accompanied response to the Grammy Cayman. provides a forum for local by his attorney Garth McBean, Award-winning artiste’s claim Other musicians in this genre to had appealed to the court to that he was being targeted by artistes interact with and perform quash the warrant, but the the government because of his scheduled to beside internation- request was turned down. support for the Opposition PNP. perform at McKnight McBean told the court that his Earlier this year Davis’s the show, ally client had been performing wife D’Angel took him to from Nov. 29 renowned overseas and missed his flight court over the ownership of to Dec. 1, include jazz vocalist artists. This back to Jamaica resulting in his assets and he was in court Dianne Reeves, Swiss-born opportunity inability to attend court on the Beenie Man again several weeks ago after keyboardist and composer can only scheduled date. the St. Andrew Parish Church Alex Bugnon, and Philadelphia boost the The tax authorities are the new Jamaica Labour Party filed a lawsuit against him for soul singer Musiq. develop- alleging that Beenie Man (JLP) administration because shooting a video in the church The Cayman Islands ment of owes the state J$47 million of his open support for the cemetery without permission. Department of Tourism Alexander local talent ($661,971), but the artiste has main Opposition People’s has retained BET Digital and bring blamed his former manage- National Party (PNP). Compiled from CMC reports. Networks for the fourth con- greater international aware- ment company Shocking “That is why the govern- secutive year to promote the ness and appreciation of ® Cayman Jazz Fest across both them.” BET and BET J cable chan- The jazz fest is organized B’dos movie makes U.S. debut Dark warning nels. BET J will produce a by Cayman’s Department of one-hour post concert show Tourism in partnership with highlighting the performances BET J. For more information, at American Black Film Festival for ‘dreamers’ and artistes of the festival to visit www.caymanislands. ky/jazzfest. LOS ANGELES, CMC – Mann Theatres late last air on the network sometime “Hit For Six”, a popular month. • TITLE: THE MOST next year. ® Caribbean movie, made its Since its premiere in DANGEROUS GANG IN “With headline act Brian international debut last Barbados last April, “Hit For AMERICA: THE NYPD month at the American Black Six” has been released in sev- • AUTHOR: RICHARD Film Festival. eral Caribbean countries. JEANTY Written and directed by “The film has secured • REVIEWED BY: Caribbean-wide theatrical dis- GORDON WILLIAMS tribution deals for 14 countries through Palace Amusements of oung men often sit Jamaica and the Trinidad-based around the Caribbean Goldmine Entertainment,” said Ydreaming about living Saunders-Franklyn, who was in elsewhere – the United Los Angeles for the festival. States, Canada, the United “We are thrilled to move Kingdom. to another level.” They see a lavish, open She said that there are lifestyle on television and plans for further internation- want to experience those al exposure and distribution places themselves. opportunities. Some, especially those enduring the brutal hardships CARIBBEAN CAST of inner-city life in the islands, The movie features an desperately hope to escape. - Photograph by BBC News all-Caribbean cast and crew, After all, it is no secret that Saunders-Franklyn directs “Hit for Six”. including popular MTV young, poor men are prime Tempo host, Trinidadian targets for victimization by West Indian communications Jeanille Bonterre; British- law enforcement and gang- specialist Alison Saunders- based Trinidadian actor, related violence. Franklyn, and produced by Rudolph Walker; lead actor But before these young- Blue Waters Productions, the Barbadian Andrew Pilgrim; sters happily depart the island film is the first from the Canadian-based Barbadian shores, American-born author Caribbean island of Barbados actress, Alison Sealy-Smith; Richard Jeanty, who is of to be featured at the festival. and Barbadian actress Varia Haitian descent, is offering a “Hit For Six” is a fictional Williams. glimpse at the “security” they account of a West Indian One month after its can expect elsewhere, espe- cricketer who fights a match debut, “Hit For Six” won cially in the U.S. Jeanty’s fixing charge. He learns about three awards at the annual book, “The Most Dangerous love while struggling for his Bridgetown Film Festival Gang in America: The last chance to play in a major 2007, including best NYPD”, lays out a chilling global tournament and earns Barbadian film, best actress reminder that no matter what the respect of his estranged and best cinematographer. these dreamers may be think- father, a former great West ing, a move to the U.S. does Indies player. ® not guarantee peace and safe- “Hit For Six” screened at (CONTINUED ON PAGE 20)

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20 CARIBBEAN TODAY November 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT Dark warning for ‘dreamers’ Shaggy gets Jamaican national honor (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19) Jeanty feels it is his job “to offer a voice to those who ntertainer Shaggy has number one spot in the ty, especially for young men of been awarded the United Kingdom and nine color. will never be heard”. It is worthwhile to listen to his EOrder Of Distinction in other countries. In 1993 the voice. The researched evi- the rank of commander by song also appeared on the GRIPPING Jamaica for outstanding serv- “Pure Pleasure” album. In 43 graphic chapters dence he offers in the book is compelling. If Jeanty’s claim ice to the country. Shaggy followed in 1995 with from a man who is described The honor was presented the “Boombastic” album for as “the social activist author that “many police officers, not just the NYPD (New York to him on Heroes Day, Oct. which he won a won Grammy that writes with a conscience”, 15, at Kings House in Jamaica. in 1996 for Best Reggae Jeanty draws on case after Police Department), have this fear that most Black men walk Shaggy, born Orville Album. In the last 12 years case of brutality by law Richard Burrell, in Kingston, Shaggy has sold over 20 mil- enforcement officials. The around with concealed weapons looking to take a Jamaica, relocated to his lion albums worldwide. tales of some of the names mother’s home in Brooklyn, “I feel honored to receive featured in the book – like shot at them” is true, then everyone has reason to worry. New York at age 18. After this award and overwhelmed Amadou Diallo and Abner leaving the United States that the Jamaican government Louima - have made their way Yet he is honest enough to admit “if you’re looking for an Marines Corps in the early saw it fit to bestow upon me into national and international 1990s, he launched his music Shaggy such recognition,” Shaggy was headlines. Others are not so objective point of view, you bought the wrong book”. career to great success. quoted as saying. familiar. But all cases offer a hit became his first major suc- The examples Jeanty offers “Oh Carolina”, a cover of gripping reminder. The Folkes Brothers (1960) cess when it roared into the ® Jeanty does not hide his among the wide range of topics motives for writing “The Most handled by the book, however, Dangerous Gang in America…” present enough evidence to Guyana ‘full steam ahead’ for CARIFESTA 2008 He spells it out clearly in the suggest that all is not well for introduction: “I’m actually writ- young black men in America. GUYANA, Georgetown, ing of the 16th Meeting of the nity’s flagship cultural exposi- ing this book to voice my per- Amadou Diallo was fired on 41 CMC - The Bharrat Jagdeo Council for Human and Social tion – the Caribbean Festival sonal frustrations with the police times by NYC cops. He was hit administration says it is mov- Development (COHSOD) last of Arts next year, is a great department as well as the justice 19 times and died in the lobby ing “full steam ahead” with month, said Georgetown was opportunity for the region to system”. His frustrations are not of his own apartment. preparations for the staging of earnestly working towards the astound the world with its confined to New York City, “He lost his life”, the next year’s Caribbean Festival success of CARIFESTA X beauty, diversity and creativi- although the “Big Apple” has book states, “because cops of Arts (CARIFESTA), the from the time it decided to host ty,” Anthony said. most of his attention. mistook his wallet for a gun”. region’s biggest cultural the festival when original host, Guyana will host CAR- Jeanty is also clear on his “The Most Dangerous Gang extravaganza. The Bahamas, backed out. IFESTA X from Aug. 22-31, own justification for writing the in America: The NYPD” is Culture Minister Dr. Frank “Guyana is proudly host- 2008. book: “Is there really a need for surely worth reading. It offers Anthony, speaking at the open- ing of the Caribbean commu- ® this book? I would say yes”. It the dreamers something to is here that he makes sure that think about. And although the people of the Caribbean Jeanty is also listed as a comic ‘Caribbean Photo Contest’ opens to students understand that the problems in “who hopes to lift the spirit of “We want to highlight the the U.S. will surely affect them the world through his words”, GORDON WILLIAMS his book is definitely no joke. visual arts and its ability, when they cross the border. through visual imagery, to “Most people would be hard ollege shutterbugs from Publisher: RJ Publications, across the Caribbean, capture nature and cultural pressed to find another major glimpses through the eyes of city in any part of the world LLC, Newark, New Jersey CLatin and North America, Africa and England today’s youth,” international that typifies multiculturalism or photographer Jomo Kenyatta a melting pot, as it is often Gordon Williams is Caribbean will this month begin their Today’s managing editor. quest to capture the beauty of was quoted as saying. referred to, more than New “The program is designed York City”. No doubt. the islands and possibly earn ® rich rewards too. to challenge college students to Entries are now being be the best among their peers accepted for the annual in an artistic endeavor and be “Caribbean Photo Contest”. rewarded for their success.” Young photographers can sub- Kenyatta mit up to five images in the pre- WHY CARIBBEAN? liminary stages of the competi- However, American-born Caribbean.” tion. Application for that stage Kenyatta has his own personal The hunt to capture those is open through Feb. 15, 2008. connections to the Caribbean. special images could bring According to the main His wife Joan is from Kingston, rewards such as scholarships. organizer, the contest will Jamaica, while he traces his To qualify for those, contest offer the youngsters a chance father’s side of the family to entrants must first get through to explore their creative tal- Barbados. several stages of competition. ents while focusing on nature In addition, Kenyatta A panel of judges will select and culture. is the creative force behind the top 100 candidates from “Caribbean Unseen”, a multi- the original batch of entries. media work project featuring The best images will then still photos and film which was be posted on a website to first released in New York in allow the public to vote. Ten 2002, but which he describes as finalists will be determined a work in progress. According from that process. The final- to Kenyatta, Caribbean Unseen ists, in addition to winning a “highlights and preserves rarely camera package, will also earn seen and uncommon aspects of a trip to Jamaica, for a photo Caribbean history, geography, seminar and expedition. culture and lifestyle.” The awards ceremony for For the “Caribbean Photo the winners, along with an Contest”, he is hoping the bud- exhibition of photographs as ding photographers will be part of the contest, will be able to capture the region’s held in June in Jamaica. special charm as well. For registration informa- “It’s such a rich and tion, visit www.caribbeanpho- diverse place,” Kenyatta told tocontest.com. Caribbean Today. “I also think it’s a place that’s Gordon Williams is Caribbean untapped; the hidden and Today’s managing editor. unseen aspects of the ®

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REGION www.caribbeantoday.com Antigua announces zero tolerance on crime ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – in 2006. OPEN STATIONS be more collaboration among port to criminals. The Antigua and Barbuda gov- Spencer announced that the security forces and ordered “I do not wish to believe ernment has announced a zero MEASURES police stations would remain the immediate removal of tints that this is so. But if that is the tolerance on crime, warning Spencer unveiled a series open on a 24-hour basis and from unauthorized, vehicles, case, I wish to assure you that that criminal activities could of crime-fighting measures, that members of the Antigua including members of the you too will be flushed out seriously undermine the including more usage of spe- and Barbuda Defense Force police force. with the criminals and will be island’s fragile economy. cialized crime detection and would be deployed immediate- Spencer also expressed prosecuted,” he said. Prime Minister Baldwin surveillance equipment, a ly to assist the police in their concern about the financing of “Today, your government Spencer, in a radio and televi- crackdown on illegal guns, operations. He told the public criminal activity and issued a is faced with what appears to sion broadcast on last month, increased police patrols and that they should expect ran- firm warning to those involved be a war between drug lords, urged the nation to be cooper- searches as well as a curfew for dom roadblocks and personal in financing illegal activities on an escalation in crime and vio- ative as the government moved minors. searches island-wide. the island. He told the nation lence and the deportation of to implement measures to deal “Minors found wandering “These forces will conduct that the authorities had infor- criminals from North America with the increase in criminal on the streets after 10 p.m. will joint coordinated patrols espe- mation regarding persons who to Antigua and Barbuda.” activities on the island. be apprehended and their par- cially within the areas of high were providing financial sup- “Support the government ents called upon to account for crime, with more frequent ® in its quest to prevent this their actions,” the prime minis- patrols within other areas,” he unwelcomed development in ter said. “Parents must recog- said. our peace loving twin island nize that they are responsible “I appeal to you to be Jamaica’s new army chief nation,” Spencer said. “Our for the actions of minors under patient and more so to be safety depends on this. The their care. cooperative with the law offi- survival of our fragile tourism “Parents must also recog- cials. Your lives might become promises transformation industry depends on this. Our nize that the absence of good disrupted by the increased KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – schools. He joined the JDF 34 economy depends on this.” values, traditions and discipline stoppages, searches and block- New Chief of Staff of the years ago in 1973 and has Police figures show that only leaves room for lawless- ades – but it will redound to all Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) served in various capacities 17 people have been killed so ness to take root.” of our benefit.” Major General Stewart including far this year, five more than Spencer said there would Saunders said he will put the lieutenant, focus on the continued trans- captain, formation of the army during major, lieu- Guyana forms new body to push his tenure. tenant “I am very much aware of colonel and what the government and the colonel. climate concerns nation require of the Jamaica In a GEORGETOWN, Guyana, stakeholders. mechanism for rewarding coun- Defence Force, and the capa- changeover CMC - A newly formed local tries for conserving those rain- bilities that have to be achieved ceremony body has met ahead of a ‘ROADMAP’ forests,” the president added. to satisfy this requirement,” he Saunders with few December climate conference in The effects of global cli- In the interim, Jagdeo said said in his acceptance speech glitches and Bali, Indonesia to draft and refine mate change have generated work needs to be done with after assuming charge on the much precision, Saunders a blueprint to push major climate much debate and many coun- bilateral donors so they can military on Oct. 27. became the ninth chief of staff, tries are co-oper- guarantee a particular financial “It is important that as a succeeding Rear Admiral ating to formulate flow to the country and then pos- military entity, we continue to Hardley Lewin, who is one of effective strategies sibly use the carbon credits that be relevant to the society we those being considered to to help mitigate could be derived from standing serve and its interests.” become the next commissioner the problem. The rainforests if they are assessed, Maj. Gen. Saunders is a of police. conference in Bali to offset carbon emissions. past head boy of Jamaica is aimed at look- College – one of the country’s ® ing at possible ® premier all-boy secondary solutions. The govern- ment release said a “Bali Roadmap” is expected to establish the process to work on the key build- Jagdeo ing blocks of a future climate change concerns of Guyana and change regime, including adapta- the rest of the region. tion, mitigation and technology A statement from the co-operation and financing the Guyana government said the response to climate change. National Climate Change Guyana is willing to deploy Committee, under the auspices its vast rainforest in the global cli- of the Agriculture Ministry, will mate change fight if there will be prepare a document for the Bali financial rewards for the sacrifice, Conference “to encourage President Bharrat Jagdeo told the stronger global actions and sup- recent Commonwealth Finance port in addressing the issues. Ministers Meeting which was held “The principal tasks of the in the capital city, Georgetown. committee will involve examining “Guyana would ensure the program of events and activi- guaranteed sustainable forestry ties for the conference; identifying practices as well as focus heavily and discussing key issues and on conservation if there is eco- areas of relevance to Guyana; nomic reward for that and that and to prepare briefing docu- we’re prepared to work with ments for Guyana’s representa- bilateral donors, as well as com- tives to conference”, the mercial entities to put this to the Government Information Agency market or to guarantee a finan- (GINA) said in a statement. cial flow to the country,” Jagdeo According to GINA, in a said when questioned afterwards. bid to sharpen the focus of the “We’re hoping that in the briefing document, the National post-Kyoto protocol framework Climate Change Committee is that there would be provisions to hold talks with national for standing rainforests and a

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www.caribbeantoday.com REGION Caribbean steps up call to address climate change NELSON KING change issue is directly related “In my own country, the planet will become unliveable of the environment, will pro- to the Caribbean’s develop- onslaught of Hurricane Dean, for most of us,” he said, not- vide “adequate and pre- UNITED NATIONS – As the ment, warning that it “threat- on 19th August, resulted in ing that SIDS are most vulner- dictable financing to allow United Nations wrapped up ens the very core of our social, the loss of life, extensive dam- able to the effects of climate them to pursue a path of the two-week 62nd Session of economic and political security. age to infrastructure, property, change, “even though they accelerated and sustainable the General Assembly debate “The dangers we face as a the agricultural sector, as well contribute the least to emis- development.” last month, Caribbean govern- result of the hazardous level as the loss of livelihood for sions of greenhouse gases.” ments used the opportunity to of greenhouse gas concentra- many,” Baugh said. Guyana’s Foreign Affairs CO-OPERATION intensify calls on the devel- tions in the atmosphere are For Minister Samuel Rudolph St. Kitts and Nevis’ oped world to provide more well known and documented,” Grenada, Insanally said some developed Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. aid to better address the chal- he said. “Urgent, resolute Foreign Affairs countries do not seem pre- Timothy Harris called for lenges of climate change. action is, therefore, required Minister Elvin pared to accept primary greater South-South coopera- Caribbean leaders, for- to reverse this situation.” Nimrod said responsibility for protecting tion, while appealing for eign ministers and diplomats His Vincentian counter- despite inter- the environment. increased humanitarian and pleaded with rich countries to part Dr. Ralph Gonsalves national con- ”Instead of ‘common but disaster relief assistance, noting bear more of the burden in applauded the United ferences on cli- differentiated responsibility,’ that, over the past year, nearly Nations’ focus on climate mate change, they speak of ‘shared respon- every region of the world has the global fight against climate Nimrod change, stating that they are change and global warming, there is still sibility’ – clearly demanding a endured some form of natural the leading producers of stating that it is a “welcome dire need to greater contribution by devel- or man-made disaster. greenhouse gas emissions. development. translate “a religious fervor oping countries to the cam- “No country escapes the Baldwin Spencer, Antigua “And it is into good deeds in the neigh- paign against climate change,” need for this assistance,” he and Barbuda’s prime minister, the prayer of borhood of our global village. he said. said. said the collective response to mankind that “As we preach, so, too, “This demand often “And, in addition to sup- climate change “represents a this belated must we become converts,” he becomes a conditionality of porting the existence and role monumental test of the politi- momentum said. “Let us move from reso- any development assistance of the Central Emergency cal will and courage of human- has not come lutions to results.” that they provide. Response Fund, we encourage ity in general, but especially of too late to Nimrod welcomed the “For developing coun- member states to commit to the political leaders of the reverse the efforts of the British U.N. tries, which this and other similar initia- most powerful countries.” He damage Mission in working “ceaseless- suffer from a tives,” he added. also urged greater spending on already inflict- Savarin ly” in raising awareness and chronic lack of Trinidad and Tobago’s the adaptation fund, noting ed on our understanding of the threat of resources, this U.N. Ambassador Philip Sealy that Small Island Developing planet,” he climate change, “echoing the imposition is, said a “clearly defined global States (SIDS) were among the said. very concerns that many small clearly, mitigation strategy” that most vulnerable in the world “After all, we are short- island states, and low-lying unequal and keeps long-term temperature to natural disasters as much as term caretakers of this earth,” coastal nations have raised unfair,” he increase at less than two climate change. added the Vincentian prime over the last 15 years.” continued. degrees Celsius above pre- “Because of our size and minister, “and it is our sacred Insanally Baugh industrial levels is necessary. the nature of our primary eco- duty to preserve it for future SETBACKS said despite He cautioned that an increase nomic activity, the infrastruc- generations.” But he said, despite con- their initial of over two degrees would ture of an entire country can Jamaica’s Deputy Prime certed efforts, climate change promise, in the Barbados likely result in “increased be destroyed by, for example, Minister Dr. Kenneth Baugh, has led to a downward assess- Action Plan, to assist the adverse impact” on SIDS. the passage of a single hurri- who is also foreign affairs ment of Grenada’s sovereign small-island and low-lying “In order to avoid a glob- cane,” he said. minister, said implementing a credit rating, pointing out that states of the region, developed al climate disaster, the In his maiden address to global response to climate the country is now under the countries are yet to “yield the Government of the Republic the General Assembly, change must remain a priority, guidance of the International measure of assistance needed” of Trinidad and Tobago calls Stephenson King, the new St. noting that Jamaica and other Monetary Fund. in overcoming the conse- for urgent and ambitious Lucia prime minister, stressed Caribbean countries are “all In underscoring the need quences of climate change. action by all states in accor- that the large producers of too familiar” with the adverse for concerted global response “Invariably, these affected dance with their common but greenhouse gases “must bear effects of climate change and to climate change, Dominica’s countries must rely on their differentiated responsibilities, the responsibility for the dam- associated phenomena, includ- Foreign Affairs Minister own limited resources to pro- respective capabilities and age being caused to the global ing sea-level rise and the Charles Savarin said climate tect the environment from social and economic condi- environment, and, in particu- increase in frequency and change “seriously threatens harm,” he said. tions,” Sealy said. lar, to the vulnerable countries intensity of hurricanes and human security” and will Insanally, therefore, whose sustainability and very other weather events. He said undermine developing coun- called for a “Partnership for - CMC existence are increasingly these “threaten the sustain- tries’ ability to achieve the Additionality”, which, in threatened by their actions.” able development, livelihoods Millennium Development return for a commitment by ® and the very existence of Goals (MDGs). countries for the preservation DEVELOPMENT Small Island Developing “Unless there is a global King said the climate States. and collective response, this First woman AG in Dec. 10 is ‘budget day’ in St. Dominica

Vincent and Grenadines ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – not selected because she is a One week after Prime woman, I do not select people KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, 27 for a parade marking the The Vincentian leader Minister Roosevelt Skerrit based on gender we select CMC - Prime Minister Dr. country’s 28th anniversary of also promised to announce announced a shake-up of them based on their abilities,” Ralph Gonsalves has Independence. increases in the budget for the his two-year old Cabinet, Skerrit told reporters after the announced Dec.10 as budget He said that what would school feeding program and Francine Baron Royer was brief ceremony. day, saying Vincentians could be announced in his budget the nutritional support for sworn in as the island’s first He said Baron Royer, in look forward to tax relief and presentation would be the pregnant mothers by some woman attorney general on her mid-30s, was a competent more zero-rated items in the bounties of the country’s 25 percent. Oct. 29. attorney and he was confident Value Added Tax (VAT) recent years of economic During his Independence Skerrit said that Baron that she would perform well. scheme. growth and the government’s message, the prime minister Royer, the former head of the The new attorney general said “These tax relief meas- sound economic management. announced salary increases, Dominica Bar Association she was confident of perform- ures are designed to leave “There will be more bene- welfare payments, bonuses, (DBA), had not been chosen ing her new task. more money in the hands of fits if we work even harder, in and other incentives, amount- because of her gender to Baron Royer is the fifth the companies and employees a more sensible, creative, imag- ing to some EC$33 million replace attorney Ian Douglas attorney general since the in the private and public sec- inative, disciplined, and pro- ($12,359,550). who has appointed minister of Dominica Labour Party tors,” Dr. Gonsalves told a ductive way,” Dr. Gonsalves tourism. (DLP) came to power in 2000. ® “Mrs. Baron Royer was large crowd gathered on Oct. said. ®

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POLITICS www.caribbeantoday.com U.S.-based group condemns P.M.outlines policies as Antigua Jesse Jackson’s planned celebrates 26th Independence ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – tions, drugs, guns and ammuni- The prime minister said pre-election visit to T&T Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer tion seizures, as well as infor- though he was happy with the used his Independence Day mation on deportation of hard- progress his three-year old gov- NEW YORK – A United message to further allay con- ened criminals from North ernment has made, there was States-based Caribbean group cerns for public safety while out- America and elsewhere. still room for improvement. assailed as “imprudent and lining new policies to be pur- “I appeal to you to be “When I look back I can inappropriate” a proposed sued by his three-year old patient and more so to be say with some satisfaction that visit to Trinidad and Tobago administration. cooperative we have moved forward with in the heat of electioneering “(Recently) the police with the law great progress,” he said. “We by famed U.S. civil rights have recovered a number of officials. Your might have been slow in taking leader, the Reverend Jesse unlicensed firearms, seized ille- lives might certain giant steps, but we Jackson. gal drugs, confiscated large become dis- have been certain.” The Caribbean-Guyana quantities of cash and executed rupted by the He appealed to residents Institute for Democracy a number of search warrants. increased stop- to adhere to core family values (CGID) said Jackson’s As a result, a number of per- pages, searches and responsibilities of being planned visit is allegedly to sons are in police custody and blockades dedicated to duty, committed “endorse an Opposition politi- Jackson assisting them with their inves- – but it will to instilling discipline and pro- cal party in that country, the Spencer tigations into the recent armed redound to all viding guidance. United National Congress- robberies and slayings,” of our bene- “Our Independence calls Alliance (UNC-A), or one of ‘INTERFERENCE’ Spencer said. fit,” he said. for a renewal of family and its candidate, or to attend a Burke said Jackson’s par- He said law enforcement family values,” Spencer said. UNC-A sponsored event, ticipation in any event, spon- officials have also removed EDUCATION “We are a nation of families ahead of general elections in sored by or endorsed by him, illegal tint from more than 100 The prime minister also and as a family we can all the republic on November 5.” “will be deemed indubitably vehicles and have issued over outlined plans to improve the aspire to great things, advance The Brooklyn-based partisan, as well as, an unwel- 40 tickets for major traffic nation’s education sector, our nation and achieve the CGID said its President come intervention and inter- offences. including the provision of addi- ultimate for our people. Rickford Burke, a lawyer, ference in the internal affairs Spencer told the country tional scholarships for students Antigua and Barbuda wrote to Rev. Jackson, a for- and internal politics of that the police will soon begin to pursue their education obtained political Independence mer U.S presidential candi- Trinidad and Tobago. issuing weekly updates to the abroad and the construction of from Britain on Nov. 1, 1981. date, expressing the group’s “CGID holds fast to the public on arrests and convic- additional learning facilities. opposition to such plan. democratic ideal that the peo- ® “As you may be aware, ple of a nation state are the the nation of Trinidad and arbiters of their own political Tobago is currently preparing faith and must be free to elect No rush to labor code ~ St. Lucia’s gov’t for national elections on their own government without November 5, 2007. outside interference or inter- CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC - (CSA) and the Seamen to continue the process of con- “Consequently, on condi- vention,” he said. Labour Minister Edmund Waterfront and General sultation to ensure that clauses tion that these media reports Burke said it was in keep- Estaphane said his govern- Workers Union, have called which were still unfavorable to are accurate, CGID wishes to ing with this very ideal that for- ment will not be rushed into on the government to enact workers were ironed out. express its opposition to any mer South African President, implementing the controver- the code in its present form, In an address to the St. such visit by you, in the midst Nelson Mandela, last month sial Labour Code, but will con- stating that the time for con- Lucia Employers Federation, of a political campaign, to sup- declined to “endorse an elec- tinue a process of consultation sultation had passed. Estaphane said he would con- port a political party,” he tion campaign or a candidacy” on the revised legislation. The unions recommended tinue to meet with employers added. of the UNC-A of Trinidad and The minister made the that any adjustments to made and trade unions to prepare “I, therefore, wish to dis- Tobago, allegedly upon a statement in response to pres- to the legislation be done after for the review of the code and suade you from this engage- request from the UNC-A. sure being mounted by at least it was adopted into law. would not be rushed into three of the island’s trade enacting the legislation until ment, if you have in fact com- CGID urged Jackson to unions for the code, which was SPLIT all parties were satisfied that it mitted to traveling to Trinidad “value and uphold to this impor- adopted by Parliament last However, the trade unions had been thoroughly reviewed. and Tobago for the above tant, internationally recognized, year in the final weeks of the have not been speaking with “I want to make it abun- stated purpose, in support of, non-interventionist principle of former St. Lucia Party admin- one voice on the issue as the dantly clear that my ministry or to attend an event spon- the democratic ethos. istration, to be passed into law. National Workers Union has will not be rushed into approv- sored by, a political party,” he At least two of the unions, not supported that view, call- ing the labor code,” he said. continued. ® the Civil Service Association ing instead on the government Bermuda’s premier launches ® fresh bid to muzzle media HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC highest court, - Premier Ewart Brown has was due to launched a personal attempt rule on a simi- to further muzzle the island’s lar legal move media from printing leaked by Attorney details of a police investigation General Philip into a scandal at the Bermuda Perinchief and Housing Corporation (BHC). Police Having issued a writ Commissioner Brown against the daily Royal George Gazette newspaper and oth- Jackson. Chief Justice Richard ers three months ago, last Ground and the Court of month he issued an applica- Appeal had previously turned tion for an interim injunction down an application from to restrain the parties from Perinchief and Jackson to ban printing anything further further publication of infor- about him personally until the mation from the leaked police conclusion of his case. files on the investigation into The latest move came just the BHC, a government-fund- days before the London-based ed entity. Privy Council, the island’s ®

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SPORT www.caribbeantoday.com Jamaica dethrones T&T Powell fears fallout from Jones’s confession KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – to win KFC Cup in cricket Men’s 100 meters world record-holder Asafa Powell of BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Jamaica believes Marion CMC – Jamaica, behind an Jones’s disclosure of taking important all-round perform- performance-enhancing drugs ance from Jerome Taylor and will affect him in the near superb fielding by Shawn future. Findlay, captured the 2007 Jones, a three-time KFC Cup with a hard-fought Olympic champion, pleaded victory by 28 runs over guilty on Oct. 5 to lying to Trinidad and Tobago in a United States government competitive final at the 3Ws investigators about using per- Oval on Oct. 28. formance-enhancing drugs. After Brenton Parchment’s The disgraced American Powell half-century and crucial runs sprint superstar subsequently “People are going to say a part of the game.” from the lower order rallied announced her retirement lot of stuff when I run fast,” Jamaica to 230 in 50 overs, from international track and he said in a television inter- UNFAIR pacer Taylor grabbed three field competition. view late last month. “But I Powell described Jones’s wickets and Findlay took two Jamaica’s captain Chris Gayle returns Powell indicated he would will be going out there to per- decision to take performance- sensational catches and also home with the winning KFC trophy. come under intense scrutiny form and break records. enhancing drugs as unfair. effected a run out to help cover to help dismiss Rayad next season when he starts to People will always say bad restrict Trinidad and Tobago to Emrit. run faster. and good things. It’s just a (CONTINUED ON PAGE 26) 202 in 49.3 overs. Taylor, who finished with In a match of fluctuating three for 37 from 10 overs to fortunes, Jamaica recovered win the man-of-the-match from 36 for three and later award, removed Belcon via SPORT BRIEFS 167 for seven, thanks mainly the lbw route and had Ganga to Parchment’s 52 and the • Bahamian to fight for title caught by the keeper attempt- The Commonwealth Boxing support from the lower half, ing to hook. Captain Chris which included 18 from Council (CBC) has sanctioned a Gayle also bagged three wick- super middleweight title fight Taylor. ets at a cost of 32 runs and The West Indies fast between Bahamian Jermaine one of his victims was Denesh Mackey and Charles Adamu for bowler then made impact with Ramdin, who made 48 before the new ball by collecting the December in The Bahamas. falling in the 42nd over when The bout is set for Dec. 1. wickets of Daren Ganga and he was the last hope for Mario Belcon, but the large Trinidad and Tobago. • Jamaican scores in Seattle’s turnout of spectators was Jamaica, sent in, benefited USL triumph more impressed with Findlay’s from an impressive 52 off 67 Jamaican Craig Tomlinson scored outstanding fielding. He took balls from opener Parchment, in the Seattle Sounders fourth a fantastic one-handed catch but they were put under pres- United Soccer Leagues (USL) at long-off to account for sure by a quick three-wicket championship title win recently. Kieron Pollard for 27 and haul from leg-spinner Samuel The Sounders defeated the then completed a run out with Badree that caused them to Atlanta Silverbacks 4-0 in the a direct throw from cover that lose momentum. After a slow final. Greg Howes netted two got rid of top-scorer Lendl start in the historic day/night goals. Hugo Alcarez-Cuellar also Simmons for 64. He later held scored and Tomlinson capped off another fine, diving catch at (CONTINUED ON PAGE 26) the win with a 90th minute strike against Atlanta, which had Jamaicans Machel Millwood and Tweety Walters and Trinidad and Caribbean men miss out Tobago’s Anthony Wolfe in its line-up.

in Breeders’ Cup racing Compiled from CMC and other OCEANPORT, New Jersey, Husbands rode the 17-1 sources. CMC – Caribbean racing men shot Clearly Foxy in the $2 missed the biggest prizes at million Breeders’ Cup ® last month’s rich Breeders’ Juvenile Fillies event and Cup horse racing meet at placed sixth. He raced near Monmouth Park. the back of the 13-horse field Jamaican jockey Shaun early and ral- Bridgmohan had a top three lied to finish finish in his event, while sixth, 10 and a Barbadian jockey Patrick quarter Husbands and Barbadian lengths behind trainer Sir Michael Stoute the winner were outside of the top frame Indian in their events. Blessing. In the $2 million Breeders Garret Cup Juvenile colts and geld- Gomez won Bridgmohan ings event, Bridgmohan the mile and placed second with the 4-1 16th event with the 3-2 second favorite Pyro. The colt favourite, clocking in one finished steadily as the minute 44.73 seconds for favorite War Pass, under trainer Bob Baffert. Cornelio Velasquez, won the Sir Michael Stoute started mile and 16th trip easily by the 7-1 chance Jeremy in the four and three quarter $2.5 million Breeders’ Cup lengths. War Pass, the 2 -1 Mile and the four-year-old colt choice in the 11-horse field, finished 10th in the 13-horse clocked one minute 42.76 sec- field. onds in his victory. ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com SPORT Major shake-up in Caribbean soccer rating Fennell retains presidency of PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC since the September rankings. as June this year, dipped seven – St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cuba had no games, but climbed places on the world list from its (SVG) achieved an all-time best seven spots to 64th in the world September position and is now Commonwealth Games body rating of 73rd in the world while and to the top spot in the CFU. seventh in the CFU. Cuba jumped back to the top of Haiti, which drew 1-1 with Costa The CFU’s Top-10 is com- LONDON, England, CMC – stated on its website. the Caribbean Football Union Rica in a recent friendly, surged pleted by Bermuda, Suriname Jamaican Mike Fennell is set Fennell was first elected (CFU) ratings released last month. 15 places up FIFA’s list to No.68, and Antigua and Barbuda. to retain presidency of the to lead the organization at the FIFA’s October rankings list making it the second ranked team Mexico, a semi-finalist at the Commonwealth Games 1994 Commonwealth Games shows SVG - now the third-ranked in the CFU. Copa America tournament this Federation for another four in Victoria, Canada. He side in the CFU - being the best SVG, beaten Caribbean Cup summer, kept its number one spot years, the CGF has declared served as chairman until 2003 movers in the world this past finalists in 1995, played no interna- in CONCACAF although it month, leaping 24 places from tionals in the past month, but its slipped two places on FIFA’s on its website. and then as president after the their world position on 97th in considerable leap took the country world list to No.15. The United Fennell was expected to post was re-named. He is also September. Meanwhile, Cuba hur- past its previous best position of States stayed second in the con- have no challengers for the the president of the Jamaica dled to number one in the CFU 85th in the FIFA world rankings. federation with a world rating of job when the Olympic Association (JOA), a for the first time since April. 18th. CONCACAF’s number General position he has held since Eight-time Caribbean Cup FALLING three team is now Canada (51) Assembly 1977. champions Trinidad and Tobago The 2006 World Cup finalist ahead of Cuba, Panama (65) and holds a sched- “Under his leadership, slid from the top to number four, Trinidad and Tobago, which battled Costa Rica (66), followed by uled meeting the Commonwealth Games and former CFU number one El Salvador to a 0-0 draw in San Haiti in seventh and SVG eighth. this month in have gone from strength to Jamaica plunged – out of the top- Salvador last month, is fourth in the Argentina remained the 100 for the first-time ever – to CFU with a world rating of 78th, world’s top-rated side, ahead of Colombo, Sri strength, highlighted most 103rd in the world, the Reggae followed by Guyana (92). Barbados Brazil, with reigning World Cup Lanka where recently by the successful its 71 member Melbourne Games in 2006,” Boyz’ lowest rating since the moved 16 places up to equal its champions Italy third. France is Fennell FIFA Coca Cola rankings were best world rating of 93rd. Barbados fourth, Germany fifth, and Spain nations and the CGF said. established in 1993. is rated sixth in the CFU. sixth, followed by the Netherlands, territories are The CGF said Fennell has The computerized ratings Three-time Caribbean Cup Portugal, Czech Republic and expected to endorse the modernized the Games’ move- served up major shuffles in champions and 1998 World Cup Croatia completing the top 10. Jamaican’s candidacy. ment through the deployment October in spite of little interna- finals qualifiers Jamaica, the “As the sole nomination of a range of innovative man- tional matches for regional teams CFU’s number one team as recent ® for the Presidency of the agement strategies and initia- Commonwealth Games tives, substantially upgrading Federation (CGF), The Hon. the support provided to Mike Fennell, OJ, CD, is set Commonwealth Games host to continue his leadership of cities and candidate cities for the organization for another future Games. four year term”, the CGF ® Jamaica dethrones T&T to win KFC Cup in cricket

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25) across and was bowled to end a promising innings that affair, Parchment and Gayle included six boundaries. seemed to be getting into Trinidad and Tobago then stride before Gayle fell to a seized the initiative as fine low catch by Badree at Lambert was caught at the short mid-wicket from a firm wicket attempting to run a pull against Mervyn Dillon. ball to third-man. Findlay was soon bowled Jamaica revived its effort attempting to drive off-spin- with a sixth wicket partner- ner Sherwin Ganga, who ship of 45 between Danza played a key role in stemming Hyatt (28) and Carlton Baugh the early flow of runs before (25) before the latter gave a Badree came into the attack. catch to deep cover. After With Parchment and Brendan Hyatt was caught at cover, Nash together in a third wick- there were useful runs from et partnership of 49, Jamaica Nikita Miller (26) and Darren were setting up nicely for a Powell (20) that pushed big total, but Badree applied Jamaica up to its winning the brakes with the quick dis- total. missals of both batsman and For Trinidad and Tobago, also claimed the wicket of Sherwin Ganaga finished with Tamar Lambert to leave three for 31 from 10 overs, Jamaica at 103 for five in the while Badree took three for 28th over. 36, also off 10 overs. After Nash edged a drive to slip, Parchment played ® Powell fears fallout from Jones’s confession

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25) Powell, who ran a world record 9.74 seconds mere “It’s unfair to other ath- days after losing to American letes because they were Tyson Gay at the World robbed of their moment in Championships of Athletics, time,” he said. “It’s very, very said he intends to remain unfair. It (Jones’s action) will focused on capturing gold at put a lot more pressure on the the Olympic Games in sport because of her status. Beijing, China, next year. He “So many people look up said he will not let the Jones to Marion Jones, and after so situation or his disappointing many years, they found out performance at Worlds side- that she was actually taking track him from that objective. drugs, this is going to put a lot of pressure on the sport.” ®

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November 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 27

EDUCATION/ YOUTH www.caribbeantoday.com OAS launches youth projects 11-y-o Vincentian wins WASHINGTON -The more marketable in today’s Organization of American changing employment environ- States (OAS) says it has ment.” He said the OAS-affili- ‘My Caribbean’ contest launched two youth projects in ated Trust for the Americas St. Vincent and the Grenadines initiative provides disadvan- leven-year-old John importance of tourism in their aimed at engaging young peo- taged persons in Latin Rickards, from St. region. After a multi-step ple, governments and the busi- America with education and EVincent and the judging process involving the ness community in creating training in advanced technolo- Grenadines, has won the ministries of tourism, the economic and other opportuni- gy, growing from two training Condé Nast Traveler “My ministries of education and ties for young people. centers in Guatemala into a Caribbean” Essay Contest. the Caribbean Tourism OAS Secretary General network of 49 centers in 11 In an awards ceremony Organization, a finalist was José Miguel Insulza said the countries. held last month at the chosen from each island. joint launch of the Young The OAS secretary gener- Caribbean Tourism Each of the 28 finalists and a Americas Business Trust Inzulza al said the “unique partner- Organization (CTO) chaperone were flown to the (YABT) St. Vincent and ship” would provide IT train- Conference in San Juan, Puerto Caribbean Tourism Grenadines National Chapter challenges stemming from the ing, job readiness training, and Rico, Klara Glowczewska, Conference (CTC) in Puerto represents “tremendous oppor- new realities brought on by civic education to young people editor-in-chief of Condé Nast Rico where they interacted tunities for the Caribbean globalization. He said the new and the community at large. Traveler magazine, also with their government dele- country’s young people to build projects, launched by the The business labs are announced the two runners-up: gates and ministers of OAS in conjunction with the a new future for everyone by intended to help young people Chante Springer of Barbados tourism. state-owned National Center creating opportunities to direct- develop their entrepreneurial and Alexander Fonseca of The contest is sponsored for Technological Innovation, ly address problems of poverty, spirit and basic skills in start- Belize. by Condé Nast Traveler, as would “help to better prepare violence and inequality.” ing a small business, through The contest, in its 15th well as the Caribbean Tourism the young people for the com- An OAS statement issued short intensive hands-on year, is open to Caribbean Organization, American petitive world.” here said that Insulza participat- workshops “as a strategy for school children. Airlines, HRG North ed in a ribbon-cutting ceremony governments and local organi- Grand prize winner America, Holiday Inn San ENTHUSIASM for the project last month. The zations to create employment Rickards received a $2,000 Juan, Puerto Rico Tourism Insulza praised the govern- ceremony was also attended by opportunities for young peo- scholarship. The two runners- Company, Museo de las ment “for the enthusiasm with representatives of various inter- ple in their communities”, the up each received a $500 schol- Americas and Destination national donor countries. which they have embraced the OAS statement said. Puerto Rico (operated by two initiatives (that) seek to arship. Rickards’s winning Prime Minister Dr. Ralph essay will also be featured in Travel Services, Inc.) Gonsalves said the project had equip young people with the ® This year’s 28 finalists, in skills needed to make them the January “Gold List” issue the potential to help tackle of Condé Nast Traveler. alphabetical order by country, Given the topic: “Imagine were: Anguilla: Johnessa you are the Minister of Harrigan; Antigua and Caribbean secondary students to study works of T&T’s first P.M. Tourism for your island. What Barbuda: Aaliyah Mussington; PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, “…In your innocent hearts the to final year would you do, and what proj- Aruba: Simran Mirpuri; CMC – Final year students at pride of the nation is enshrined, sixth form stu- ects could you create, to help Barbados: Chanté Springer; secondary schools throughout on your scholastic development, dents in all bring locals and tourists closer Belize: Alexander Fonseca; the Caribbean are to participate the salvation of the nation is CARICOM together?” John wrote: The Bahamas: Ferré in an essay competition dependent...You carry the states, and “I want locals to be Cambridge; Bermuda: Arisha- launched by the “Eric Williams future of Trinidad and Tobago should be involved in order to make Renee Butterfield; British Memorial Collection” (EWMC) in your school bags...” based on Dr. tourism a success. First, I Virgin Islands: Kenisha Frett; marking the 2007 Bicentenary Williams’s sem- would examine all the natural Cayman Islands: Jaida tourist attractions such as Alexander; Curacao: of the British abolition of the COLLABORATION inal scholarly Williams Transatlantic slave trade in The essay project, organized work waterfalls, the volcano, beach- Maximiliaan Van Aalst; Africans. by the Memorial Collection “Capitalism es, and hiking trails. I would Dominica: Miranda Forde; The initiative takes its based at the St. Augustine and Slavery”. The essay will have workshops with the Grenada: Kaze’ll Banfield; name, “School Bags Essay Campus of the University of the focus on two questions: “How locals to inform them of the Guyana: Kevin Camacho; Competition”, after a famous West Indies, in collaboration has ‘Capitalism and Slavery’ importance of natural attrac- Haiti: Sybille Legitime; exhortation to the children of with the Jamaica National shaped current debates on the tions and how they could play Jamaica: Jason Gooden; Trinidad and Tobago by the Bicentenary Committee, has commerce in African slaves and a part by securing these attrac- Martinique: Meddy country’s internationally also drawn support from the the abolition of slavery?” and tions from criminals in order Marguerite; Montserrat: Nikita renowned historian prime min- Barbados-based Caribbean secondly, “What relevance, if to make the tourists more safe. Howe; Nevis: Kerese Elliott; ister and author of “Capitalism Development Bank, the any, do these debates have for The locals would act as tour Puerto Rico: Blanca Pagan and Slavery”, Dr. Eric Williams. Caribbean community (CARI- today’s student?” guides whenever tourists Amaro; St. Eustatius: Jaiir On the eve of Trinidad and COM) Secretariat; the regional The organizers said that the would visit the island and edu- Jack; St. Kitts: Krystal Lescott; Tobago’s Independence from airlines LIAT and Caribbean first prize winners would cate tourists about our local St. Lucia: Mitchelle Augustin; Britain on Aug. 30, 1962, Airlines as well as a number of receive a four-day all expenses culture”. St. Maarten: Julique Hodge; St. Williams, in a nation-wide Trinidad-based companies. paid trip for two to Trinidad Vincent and The Grenadines: address as first prime minister, The competition, which and Tobago or Jamaica. EDUCATION John Rickards; Suriname: said to the school children: ends on Dec. 15, is restricted The annual contest, Nicole Ritfeld; Trinidad and ® administered through the Tobago: Nikolai Beharry; Turks school system in each and Caicos: Jesthea Saunders; Caribbean country. It strives and U.S. Virgin Islands: New tax to fund Internet access to educate primary and early Sh’Nae Carr. KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, clinics and other important launching a host of other proj- secondary school children in CMC – The St. Vincent and social service institutions,” ects including training. the Caribbean about the ® the Grenadines government Thompson said, adding that the has launched a “Universal government would soon be ® Service Fund” designed to pro- vide Internet access to schools on the island. Telecommunication, Science, Technology and Industry Minister Dr. Jerrol Thompson said that the fund would be financed by a one percent tax of the gross rev- enue from each of the major telecommunication providers. “This fund will be used to help provide broadband (Internet) access to schools,

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28 CARIBBEAN TODAY November 2007