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NEWS YOU CAN USE ! Vol. 8 No. 2 · March 2011 A critical year for Guyana

his year is perhaps the most criti- try will be left behind,” said Dr. Vincent Some 300 Guyanese and friends of Guy- cal for post independent Guyana Adams, currently the highest ranking ana, decked out mostly in tuxedos and T as it prepares for an election that Guyanese American serving in the Unit- evening gowns enjoyed an elegant even- must result in an administration that ed States Federal Government. He over- ing of fine dining, dancing and meaning- will ensure the country is not left be- sees the US government’s nuclear ener- ful discourse as they celebrated their hind. And Guyanese in the Diaspora gy program. homeland’s 41st anniversary as a Repub- have a critical role to play in helping to lic. Adams, who is the offspring of an Afri- ensure the election of a government can father and an Indian mother from Adams told the ethnically diverse audi- committed to democracy, good govern- Linden (formerly McKenzie) in Guyana, ence that “racial harmony must be a ance, racial harmony, equity and the was the guest-of-honor and keynote genuine commitment of any govern- respect for human rights. speaker at the Guyanese American Cul- ment if it is to mold Guyana into a de- “Without adherence to these basic prin- tural Association of Central Florida cent, fair and united society effectively ciples Guyana cannot move forward in (GACACF) annual Republic Anniversary confronting the challenges of the global keeping with the challenges of a rapidly Gala held last month at the historic economy and moving the country for- changing global economy and the coun Ballroom at Church Street in Orlando. ward from promise to prosperity. Continued on PG 6

Dr. Adams 6th from left with the sponsors of the GACACF Republic Anniversary Gala Food costs rise as fuel prices soar ... but restaurant owners trying to keep prices “in check” aribbean American restaurant owners in board this year. U.S. retail food prices, in gro- owner of Circa 1926 in Winter Park. It is ex- Florida are striving to keep prices in ceries and restaurants, are expected to increase pected that tomato prices will come down in C check even as they are faced with rising faster than the overall rate of inflation both this April. costs brought on by soaring fuel prices and wild year and next. With gas prices averaging about $3.50 per gal- weather. Many are reporting a significant de- Still, food inflation is accelerating at the fastest lon in Florida and as high as $3.80 per gallon in cline in revenues as a result of the reduction in pace since reaching a 28-year high in 2008, the south Florida, food distributors have been spending power of their customers. USDA said last month in a report. The U.S. Bu- forced to increase charges thereby re- Caribbean American restaurant and grocery reau of Labor Statistics estimates that food pric- sulting in higher prices for staples such as store owners tell Caribbean Sun that the costs es rose 0.5 percent in January, the biggest jump meats, eggs, cooking oil, fruits and vegetables, of food items rose significantly last month in since September 2008, and were up 1.8 percent cereal and baked goods including bread. addition to which distributors are now adding a in the past 12 months. “I can’t pass on these increases to the customer. fuel surcharge to deliveries. “The cost of tomatoes has tripled,” said Timehri They are already feeling the crunch. To do that Global food prices rose 25 percent last year and restaurant owner Lake Naraine who pointed will kill my business…..I just got to ride it out,” set a record last month, the U.S. Department of also to a significant increase in prices for said Lake Naraine who shared Lester Lall’s Agriculture (USDA) estimates. shrimp and a host of other items. The increase view that cutting back on quality is never an In the United States, the USDA predicts food in tomato prices is attributed to a chilly winter option in the restaurant business. costs will rise as much as 4 percent across the in Florida, Texas and Mexico, said Lester Lall, uring the past two months the R candidate for nomination for the tan. This was yet another interesting Guyanese American community presidency of Guyana, Basil Williams. political meeting and again there was D in Central Florida has been very Again, a diverse crowd of Guyanese heckling….this time the heckler was active, demonstrating in the process turned out to meet him and hear his asked to leave. that it has the capacity to organize well message. He was asked some really Then, there was the elegant Republic and to earn the attention and respect of tough questions and was even heckled anniversary gala held at the historic influential people both at home and several times by sections of the audi- Ballroom at Church Street with the spe- abroad. ence. And although the majority in the cial guest being Dr. Vincent Adams, the audience was not PNC/R supporters, First, it was the Installation of the new highest ranking Guyanese American perhaps not supporters of any political executive committee of the Guyanese currently serving in the US government. party in Guyana, at the end of the event American Cultural Association of Cen- they all "hung out" and fired a few All these events but the Republic Gala tral Florida, held at The Venue at drinks with Basil, asking more ques- were held at The Venue at Timehri res- Timehri Banquet Hall. Almost 100 Guy- tions about Guyana and in some cases taurant, owned by Guyanese Lake Na- anese and friends of Guyana turned out even contributing to his campaign. raine who made the facility available for the event which had as its guest of free of cost for all these events, as he honor, Judge Alli B. Majeed of Then came Peter Ramsaroop another did for a similar event last November the Brevard County Court. candidate seeking the presidency of when Prime Minister Sam Hinds visited Guyana at elections due later this year. Judge Majeed's speech was a master- Central Florida. We commend the man- The band of hecklers was out again. piece. His message was "bang on"....we agement of Timehri for providing a Would this Indo-Guyanese group of must be good Guyanese and proud “home away from home” for Guyanese hecklers who gave Basil Williams a Americans ...."there is nothing we can- irrespective of race, political or reli- “rough time” do the same to Ramsa- not achieve if we work hard, stay fo- gious affiliation. roop. Indeed they did. But at the end of cused and obey the law. We must reject it all there was hugging and laughing One had to be at these events to really homegrown terrorism in all its forms and drinking. capture the genuine spirit of Guyanese whether it manifests itself through our unity. As elections in Guyana draw mosques, mandirs or churches. We must Next was a retirement reception for out- near, the Guyanese community in Cen- uphold values of love for family and re- going Guyana born Orange County Sher- tral Florida has undoubtedly demon- spect for one another." iff’s Office Commander Russell Permaul. strated political maturity, ethnic har- Guyanese as well as scores of law en- The Guyanese gathered at this event, of mony and a sense of national pride forcement personnel turned out to the all ethnic, religious and social back- which should be emulated by other Guy- reception. The Guyanese and wider Car- grounds, were all brimful of pride not anese communities at home and abroad. ibbean American community were only about the "heights" this son of the We are sure that there are differences hailed for their good citizenry and law soil had made in America but of the dis- and problems within the Guyanese abiding nature. play of genuine unity among them- American community in central Florida selves. This was followed by another town hall but so far these differences don’t seem meeting this time held by the Alliance to have divided the community….at The second event, held at the same ven- for Change presidential candidate and least not on the surface. ue, was a Town Hall Meeting with PNC/ Member of Parliament Khemraj Ramjat-

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Florida’s Caribbean Sun 2 We have two different Jamaicas-PM

By Doreen Hemlock amaica‟s Prime when I carried you. The footsteps you saw doing it primarily to Minister Bruce there are mine.” Maybe, I‟m into that period reduce staff but to J Golding says when I want one pair of footsteps. Are you a increase efficiency. We there are two differ- spiritual person? are trying to cut out ent Jamaicas, one processes. Instead of Q. I am. Although I went to a meeting on that is the best in having to go through non-violence the other day and was struck the world for many 70 steps before you by a remark there – that’s it’s a conundrum things such as ath- get a particular li- that Jamaica has one of the highest per- letics, music and cense, you can do it in capita rates of churches and also, one of the coffee and another two or three. But in highest per-capita rates of murders. Perhaps that is quite violent the process, there is going to be displacement. the churches are not doing enough to help despite being a very It‟s not going to make me popular. But it has to combat crime? Christian nation. be done. A. It‟s part of a problem we have, where in so In an exclusive interview with journalist Q. But at the same time you have displace- many aspects of our lives, we have two differ- Doreen Hemlock for the Caribbean Sun and ment, you have to provide some opportuni- ent Jamaicas. Jamaica is a very Christian the South Florida Sun Sentinel newspapers, ty for the displaced people, so you don’t country, but we‟re a very violent country. Ja- the first part of which was published in our have more violence. It has to be integrated.. maica has been deprived of so much progress, last edition, the prime minister disclosed that and yet there are so many respects in which we A. That kind of thinking that has prevented us a complete review of government is now being are the best in the world: athletics, coffee.. I from doing it for the last 20-odd years. That undertaken with a view to becoming more effi- think it‟s some internal dysfunction we have. you can‟t do it, because it‟s going to create cient. Some of which is our politics. Some of it is our problems over here. You have to determine: Do Here is the final edited part of the interview: culture. We can‟t address this simply by pass- you want to grow in the future, and are you ing laws or changing governments. There are prepared to take the tough decisions? Margaret Q. How do you handle the stress that comes basic transformational tools that have to be Thatcher did it, and look what has happened to with these challenges? Do you do yoga? employed. the British economy. A. I pray. Q. But that’s my starting point. I’ve been Q. But what do you do for the displaced Q. For something specific? coming to Jamaica for 25 years, and it real- when you have a culture of crime? ly hasn’t changed much compared to China A. No. Just for guidance. Remember that story A. You seek to create new opportunities. Some that is zooming ahead. It’s not for a lack of of the man who was walking, and he looked will be created by outsourcing part of what gov- smart people or committed people. But back at his life and he saw that there was a ernment used to do before. But ultimately, to somehow, the systems don’t work period when there was only one pair of foot- create jobs, you need (private) investment. How steps. And he asked God, “How could you have A. That‟s part of our problem. We‟re trying to do you get investment? You have to make gov- abandoned me at a time when I needed you the get right. Right now, for example, we are doing ernment efficient. You have to get government most?” And God said: “That was the period a complete review of government. We are not out of the business Cont’d on PG 4

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 3 CARIBBEAN BUSINESS

Cont’d from Pg. 3 We have two different Jamaicas-PM where it borrows all the money. When I came government and get 28 percent, or at one time, Do you know in 1973, Lee Kuan came to a to office, 65 percent of the banking system 52 percent interest? It was the taxpayers of Commonwealth ministers meeting in Jamaica credit was gobbled up by government, which Jamaica helping to pay that. This is the kind of and took a look at what Jamaica was doing in meant that 35 percent was what was left for game-changing we have to do. Do you think terms of investment – mind you, we were still everyone else. it‟s easy? Do you think it makes you popular? fledgling, we had screwdriver- type industries, but they were employing people -- and he said, In America, some people have turned on Q. But why did Jamaica get so indebted in “How did you guys do this?” He sat with some Obama, because they say “You‟re spending too the first place, so your job is cleaning up of the architects of it, went back with the ide- much. Cut the spending.” You don‟t get any- debt? as, and the rest is history. At that time, Jamai- body in Jamaica saying, “You‟re spending too A. It started back in the 1970s, when you had ca and Singapore were roughly at the same much.” What the people in Jamaica say is a government that was headed directly into level… So, having missed our way and found “Spend more.” And I don‟t have it to spend. Cuban-type socialism. We drove every serious ourselves in the jungle, we are trying to see if So, you determine your priorities. What do you investor out of Jamaica. They fled. The prime we can find our way back to the track. But it‟s need to do to get the country to a stage where minister at the time got so annoyed, he told certainly not something that can be done in growth is self-sustained, where it attracts more them that they could take any of the five flights three years. It‟s a work in progress. investment and growth? Who is going to invest a day that go to Miami, they could get out. We in a country where you can lend your money to have never recovered from that. Laparkan moving to Silver Star Road aparkan Shipping, which service and offer a hassle free experience has operated in central to our customers coming into the facility,” L Florida for many years at said Anita Singh. Refurbishing of the 6100 West Colonial Drive in Or- building has been taking place over the lando, will be moving to a new past three months. A formal grand open- facility as of March 31, 2011. ing is being planned for sometime in April. The new office and warehouse This facility was among the Guyanese will be located at 1934 Silver owned businesses visited by Dr. Vincent Star Road, just east of John Adams, the highest ranking Guyanese Young Parkway. American in the US Federal government, while in central Florida last month as the Paul and Anita Singh owners of guest of honor of the Guyanese American PS Freight Systems, who man- Cultural Association of Central Florida age the Laparkan operations in (GACACF). central Florida, told Caribbean Sun that the new 4,500 square Dr. Adams congratulated Paul and Anita foot facility will offer customers Singh and Laparkan for their ongoing improved facilities including commitment to providing their customers space for packing their boxes with quality service and for having confi- and barrels as well as more dence in the US economy to expand their space for parking. operations.

(From L-R) Paul & Anita Singh and Dr. Vincent Adams during a “We will also be able to provide tour of the new Laparkan facility on Silver Star Road heightened levels of customer Jamaica encouraging investment in agriculture

amaica’s Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Dr. and creativity to improving production systems, Christopher Tufton has appealed for increased through investment and better management. Jamaica sugar sweet but….. investments in the agricultural sector, citing sig- J “I am prepared to sit with you, to talk to you, not just nificant opportunities from growing local produce. He is about opportunities that exist, but how we can facili- encouraging Jamaicans in the Diaspora as well as for- amaica‟s sugar industry has been tate your engagement in that process, either through eign companies to look into investment opportunities in fined by the United States for ship- policy, through legislation, through accommodation or the agriculture sector. J ping poor quality sugar in January facilitation; as long as it’s going to lead to greater value and has been warned that imports of this Speaking at the launch of the 'Eat Jamaican’ Campaign being created, jobs being created, foreign exchange commodity could be suspended in the fu- in downtown Kingston, Dr, Tufton said that, based on being earned or saved, and overall, a more improved ture, according to information obtained by the sector’s performance, it was an opportune time for and sustainable agricultural sector,” he said. the Caribbean Sun newspaper. investors to get involved by applying entrepreneurship Sources in Guyana have said that the US is looking to source sugar there having Forum on Haiti March threatened to ban consolidated imports of sugar from Jamaica. Amerijet opens in Orlando aiti One Year Later is the theme for an But Jamaican authorities say that the US merijet last month opened its international business forum to be held in has given the 7,270 metric tons of sugar Orlando Cargo Receiving station H Miami on March 9. Put on by the Organi- imported in January “a passing grade for in the Plaza Shopping Center at zation of Women in International Trade (OWIT) in A conjunction with the Haitian American Chamber its polarization (the measurement of su- 2516 West Colonial Drive, in the heart crose content) but has fined the Sugar In- of the West Indian business communi- of Commerce, the forum will examine social and dustry Authority (SIA) for three quality in- ty in Central Florida. economic re-development in Haiti and business fractions –grain size, color and high levels opportunities arising from the re-development of dextran, an organism found in stale The opening hours are Monday to Fri- master plan. cane. day 10-6 and Saturday 9.30 to 6.00 pm. Among the lead speakers at the forum will be Jamaica has been fined $14,247, $3,344 Ralph Latortue, Consul General of Haiti along and $27,477 respectively for each of the Amerijet says its new facility will re- with Cristina Barrios, Louise Leger and Gael de quality infractions. ceive international air and ocean Maisonneuve, the consuls general of Spain, Cana- freight export shipments including gen- da and France respectively. Jamaica‟s Agriculture Minister Dr. Christo- eral personal and commercial cargo, pher Sulton has ordered an investigation large and small packages, barrels, val- The forum, sponsored by Seafreight Agencies and into the cause of the shortfall in quality of uable and or fragile goods. the Miami River Group will be moderated by Mark the sugar exports to the US. D‟sa, senior advisor for industrial development at the US State Department. Florida’s Caribbean Sun 4 Florida’s Caribbean Sun 5 A Critical Year for Guyana

Continued from the Front Page - ment. So when these politicians come to the best brains and expertise available to the Diaspora looking for money we must them simply because of politics and race.” “My mother was Indian and my father was let them know that we have had enough of black. I love the black side of my family no Adams, along with Eldon Bremner-general the politics of race. Let them know that more than I love the Indian side. I was manager of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, you will hold them accountable and unless raised by my mother who could not read or Commander Russell Permaul of the Or- they operate in a way that shows that they write but who struggled not only to raise ange County Sheriff‟s Office and dental hy- are fair, honest and not racist then they me but about 23 children from the com- gienist and community worker Urla King need not come back expecting red carpet munity who made our small house, their were honored for their long and dedicated treatment,” Adams said. home. Racial harmony can be achieved in service in their respective fields and for Guyana if only we can find an Indian can- While emphasizing that he is not a sup- their contributions to the Guyanese com- didate that blacks can trust or an African porter of any political party in Guyana, Ad- munity. candidate that Indians can trust. I don‟t ams noted that Guyana should have been Among the speakers at the event were know who that candidate is but we in the much further ahead of many of its Carib- Guyana Member of Parliament Khemraj Diaspora have to help ensure that the next bean neighbors but that “the country‟s de- Ramjattan who brought greetings on be- president is someone who is truly commit- velopment has been restricted because half of the Parliament of Guyana and Anti- ted to racial harmony, balance, equity and over the years we have had people running gua and Barbuda‟s Ambassador-at-Large fairness,” Adams told the audience to loud things about which they don‟t have a clue. Rupert Blaize who brought greetings on applause. We have had and continue to have too behalf of the CARICOM countries. many square pegs in round holes. And “Guyana cannot allow the issue of race to successive governments have failed to use continue to thwart our quest for develop- Karen Asche, Montano, All Rihanna video banned Stars shine at Trinidad Carnival

ihanna has never shied away from dog-leashed Perez arene Asche was Chandelier" - was named Queen being sexy in her videos, but it Hilton and Rihanna crowned 2011 Calypso of Carnival. seems she’s gone too far for some being handled by Monarch, at the R K With a score of 278 points, Neal with her colorful video and lyrics for S&M. the Press. Queen's Park Savannah, in Port & Massy Trinidad All Stars creat- of Spain, as carnival in Trinidad ed history by becoming the first Not only has the video been deemed According to the and Tobago was in full swing. steelband to receive a hefty $2 “inappropriate for some users” by YouTube, British tabloid Daily Trinidad All Stars steelband won million for winning the National where viewers must verify they are 18 or Mirror, 11 countries the national panorama competi- Panorama competition. older before watching it, have already tion while Wade Madray but a handful of radio stations are also re- banned the video In winning the prestigious title, claimed the Kinfg of Carnival acting to the song’s racy lyrics. from airplay, and All Stars, a highly popular band title and Machel Montana the BBC 1 Radio won’t play the track before 7 whose dethroned last year’s International Soca Monarch ti- In the video – while singing lyrics like “Sex in p.m. A rep for the radio station said airplay champion PCS Silver Stars, by a tle. the air/ I don’t care/ I love the smell of it/ was being considered for the Loud track: mere three points during a Sticks and stones may break my bones/ But “We are waiting for an edited version before Asche, a three-time National keenly-fought Panorama finals. Junior Calypso Monarch cap- chains and whips excite me” – she dances deciding whether it will be played in the day- Singer Machel Montano walked tured the $2 million first prize around in latex, poking fun at the ball-gag- time.” The singer herself is responding to away with a $2 million prize with her two selections, "Be wearing media. The clip includes whips, a the reaction . after giving a showstopping per- Careful What You Ask For" and formance at this year’s 2011 "Uncle Jack". International Soca Monarch Michael "Sugar Aloes" Osouna Competition. copped second spot, ahead of Montano’s performance was his Dr Hollis "Chalkdust" Liverpool first at the competition in 16 and Devon Seale. years but it wowed the crowds Defending champion Kurt Allen and the judges and he picked up had to settle for sixth spot, the grand prize in the ‘Power while Soca artiste Rodney Soca’ category with his song "Benjai" Le Blanc finished 12th ‘Advantage’. and last. Neil Iwer George came in se- Wade Madray, with his portray- cond, earning him $600,000 in al of "Pacific Tsunami", claimed prize money. the King of Carnival title. And Peola Marchan - "D Jeweled Community Calendar GRENADA INDEPENDENCE GALA AT THE HOLIDAY INN, HOTEL & SUITES 5905 Kirkman Road Orlando, FL Saturday, March 19, 2010 Time: 7 pm-1 am Tickets: $55.00 in advance only Contact: Val @321-303-9345/Rita @407-299-8316

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Florida’s Caribbean Sun 6 BBC’s Caribbean Service final broadcast By Laverne McGee BC Caribbean Service has on March 25. NC Florida, one of Lauderdale but has members only a few weeks left in op- the organizations that all over Florida. Ra- B eration as it gets ready to Debbie Ransome, Head of BBC end its broadcasts on March 25. Caribbean Service said: “After one was instrumental in goobarsingh says at one time U The decision by BBC World Ser- of our best years ever editorially, helping elect Trinidad Prime they had considered not mov- vice is part of cuts which will this has been a great blow for the Minister Kamla Persaud Bis- ing forward as a group but amount to over 600 jobs lost. team here.” sessar, has a new vision for due to overwhelming support BBC said the closures are part of Controller, Languages at BBC 2011.That’s according to re- of their efforts in the commu- its response to a cut to its Grant- World Service, Liliane Landor de- elected President Devika Ra- nity, they are ready to help in-Aid funding from Britain‟s For- scribed BBC Caribbean as: “One goobarsingh. UNC’s initial Trinidadians here and at eign & Commonwealth Office of the oldest and most distin- role was as a political arm of home. She has had support (FCO). guished services that the BBC has the party in Trinidad. Howev- from American officials as The final week of broadcasting by provided in English.” er, now that there is a new well. Broward County Com- the Caribbean Service will include The Caribbean Service transmis- government in place in Trini- missioner Dale Holness, of a regional call-in and discussion sions are used on 48 partner sta- dad, UNC Florida wants to Jamaican descent, recently led program looking at the future of tions across the English, Spanish, focus their efforts on fund- a trade delegation to Trinidad. pan-Caribbean news and current and Dutch Caribbean and as part raising. The Prime Minister He has been an active sup- affairs. of the Caribbean stream on four The last editions of the morning FM relays in Jamaica, Trinidad, is dedicated to helping under- porter of Caribbean American and evening drive time editions of Barbados, and -Barbuda. privileged children in Trini- efforts, including UNC Flori- BBC Caribbean Report and BBC The early roots of the Caribbean dad who are unable to afford da’s charity initiatives. Caribbean Magazine will be aired Service began in 1939. (BBC) lifesaving healthcare. UNC Ragoobarsingh says they will be raising funds for the are planning an outreach to Children’s Fund along with Trinidadian nationals all over several other charities. Florida. She welcomes their etired Guyana Defense 264 votes. The other contestants- The group is based in Ft. membership in UNC, Florida. Force Brigadier, David Basil Williams got 88 votes, Dr. R Granger was last month Faith Harding 20 and attorney-at- elected to be the Peoples National law James Bond 13 votes. Congress Reform‟s (PNCR) presi- dential candidate in a keenly con- Granger‟s campaign platform over tested poll. the last six months among party members and supporters has been Media reports initially had former on security, youth-education, con- finance minister Carl Greenidge as stitutional reform, job-creation, winner of the poll but after a re- economic development and the re- count Granger emerged the candi- introduction of a non-militarized date. Granger won 279 votes and national service. Economist, Carl Greenidge won UNC Florida President Devika Ragoobarsingh with Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness and Florida Caribbean Sun's Managing Editor Laverne McGee

uyanese are likely to as polling stations. go to the polls on Au- G gust 22, this year, ac- One source, demerara- cording to some analysts and waves.com is reporting that media reports. the Claims and Objections period could begin in early Preliminary projections are April after the Elections Com- that Guyanese could go to mission evaluates the recent- the polls on August 22 to ly concluded cycle of continu- elect a government of their ous registration. That evalua- choice. But other sources tell tion is scheduled to be con- Caribbean Sun that the elec- ducted during the next two tion will most likely be held sittings of the seven-member Turn in your old in early December. commission. The Claims and unwanted Gold or Objections period is sched- Singh’s Jewelry Jewelry and make With schools expected to uled to last six weeks after close from July 8 to Septem- which the commission would ca$h ber 5 for the „August holiday‟, prepare the Official List of Broken , tangled they will be available for use Electors (OLE). One Free Jewelry Cleaning chains missing & Inspection stones mix/match earrings 10K 14K Derrick Singh or Ronald Singh 18K 22K 24K White gold, Tricol- 407-849-0002 ored Gold class 2155 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32804 rings, dental gold, Platinum , Gold (Magic Mall Booth Z 4-5 Last Entrance) coins, silver and WE PAY CASH ON THE SPOT more

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 7 GACACF 7th Annual Republic Anniversary GALA held at The Ballroom at Church Street ©Photos by Mark Bannister

A glimpse of the sartorial splendor of the evening The ethnic, gender and era diversity of the Gala’s patrons (below & above)

The Scantlebury Family Dancing the night away

Dr. Vincent Adams, Wesley Kirton and Guyana MP Khemraj Ramjattan

From (l to r) Linda Felix, Brian Bacchus and Sakina Bell

Urla King receives her award from GACACF’s

President George Lyking

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 8 Judge Alli B Majeed swears in the new Executive of the GACACF at Installation ceremony

© Charles Bigby

Attendees at the GACACF Installation ceremony in prayer. © Charles Bigby

Retiring Orange County Sheriff ‘s Office Commander Russel Permaul with Colleagues at Circa’s restaurant proprietor Lester Lall (standing) welcomes a Retirement Reception hosted in his honor by Florida’s Caribbean Sun Newspaper, and guests at Brunch he hosted as part of the Guyana Republic Timehri Restaurant Anniversary celebrations in Central Florida

Guyanese in Central Florida with Guyana Peoples Partnership Presi- dential candidate Peter Ramsaroop at the end of a Town Hall Meeting at The Venue

Below: Guyanese pose with PNC-R Member of Parliament Basil Williams at the end of his Town Hall Meeting at The Venue in Orlando

The Alliance For Change Town Hall Meeting in Orlando

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 9 KISSIMMEE # 407-201-3066

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 10 ussell Permaul served the Orange rla King is currently the Senior County Sheriff’s Office for over 31 Registered Dental Hygienist at R years. His long and dedicated ser- U Orange Dental in South Orlan- vice of an exceptionally high standard result- do. She received her accreditation from ed in his rise through the ranks to the posi- New York City Technical College, City tion of Commander of the Metropolitan Bu- University of New York where she grad- reau of Investigations (MBI) division of vice uated as the Valedictorian in 1990. Urla organized crime, from which he will retire in began her dental studies in 1976 as part a few days. of the first batch of Dental Nurses re- “Russ” as he is popularly known, hails from humble beginnings in Al- ceiving a scholarship from the Guyana bouystown, Guyana, a ward of the capital city of Georgetown which be- Government to the Dental Auxiliary cause of stereotypes, would hardly be expected to produce an honest, disci- School in Kingston, Jamaica earning plined and hardworking young man who would choose law enforcement as exceptional honors at graduation. In a profession. 1980 she was awarded a World Health Organization scholarship and Over the years Russ has not been just a policeman as he would be called in was the first from Guyana to study and earn a Diploma in Advanced Guyana. He has been a community worker as well. While his dedicated Dental Nursing from the University at Wellington, New Zealand. service has seen him put criminals behind bars, go undercover to “root out” Before relocating to Central Florida in 1994, Urla was the Senior drug barons and other ruthless criminals and indeed been shot at; he has Dental Hygienist at Jamaica Hospital, Queens, New York for a num- also counseled young people, educated the community about their civil ber of years and also worked with several dental specialties in the rights, advised business owners on security precautions and generally inter- Greater New York area. She has been an active member of the Cen- acted with the community, especially the Guyanese American community tral Florida Community in the area of Dental Hygiene and Preventa- in a positive and meaningful way. tive Dental Health Education. She is the consummate professional and often volunteers at community health fairs and clinics and has Over the years Commander Permaul has served in various capacities even made goodwill trips to her hometown of Queenstown, Essequi- among them Administrator of the Gang Resistance Education and Training bo where she rendered dental services to members of that communi- (GREAT) program for the Southeast United States; Commander of the Or- ty on a voluntary basis. lando International Airport Narcotics Unit and Supervisor of the Orange Urla is a longstanding member of the Caribbean and Floridian Asso- County Package Unit. ciation and has been a member of the Guyanese American Cultural He holds a Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice from Columbia College Association of Central Florida from its inception. She is married to and a Masters in Organizational Management from Phoenix University. He Andy King and they have 2 children between them; Son Steffan, a has also participated in several specialized training courses. He is also the Medic in the United States Navy and Daughter Nicole, currently pur- recipient of several awards and recognitions including the Distinguished suing a teaching career by way of Valencia Community College. Service Award (3 times); the Purple Heart; the Medal of Valor; the Medal of Merit; the Combat Ribbon and the Sheriff’s Citation. Russ is a lover of animals and lives on his ranch in Geneva, Florida.

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Florida’s Caribbean Sun 11

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 12 Caribbean Horoscopes March 2011

Aries (21 March - 19 April) This will be a glorious month. Last month brought you a variety of opportunities and a few changes, especially in the career area. If you did not make it happen, here is your second chance. Look out now as you start to receive all sorts of gifts.

Taurus (20 April - 20th May) March is a stellar month for your career. Others might even become a little envious but it’s your turn now. On the job front this month belongs solely to you.

Gemini (21 May -21 June) You will adore March! You'll start to see evidence that you are indeed finding yourself in an enviable place in the universe, and this will become apparent very quickly, in the first week of the month. As you may have guessed, you have entered one of your best months of 2011.

Cancer (22 June - 22 August) Lots of change is taking place in your horoscope, and the very best has to do with your brilliant career aspects. Luck, entered your tenth house of honors, awards, and achievement for the first time since early 1999 so get ready for a number of lucky career breaks.

Leo (23 August - 22 August ) You seem ready to join forces with someone special, and that's unusual for you. You seem excited by the possibilities of this "coming together" of you and one special individual. Talks and plans will begin to shape up quickly this month.

Virgo (23 August - 22 September) If there is one part of life that gives you enormous satisfaction, it's feeling fully prepared and absorbed in a fascinating project. This month, you will be polish- ing one assignment until it gleams, and later you will feel rightly proud that you made it the very best it can be. That is why you will be so happy in March.

Libra (23 September - 22 October) What a terrific month! What all Libras need, including you, is a happy month filled with a few lucky breaks and a sprinkling of lots of fun. Here it comes, dear Libra! They've already opened the bottle of champagne, so all they are waiting for is their guest of honor, you!

Scorpio (23 October - 21 November ) You will be thinking about how to make your home more comfortable and cozy. Wow - harness this energy and you certainly will be able to make things happen - your way! You may also want to make an effort to see family members too, and enjoy catching up on news of what eve- ryone in the clan have been doing.

Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) You will love March! It's a strong and sturdy month that will allow you to make excep- tional progress. It's clear all kind of good news is about to come barreling toward you quickly, dear Sagittarius!

Capricorn (22 December - 16 January) This will be a big finan- cial month. It started in February. Cut the cards, make the deal, and find ways to earn more money, dear Capricorn, but do it early in the month when you will have your very best aspects for mak- ing a really good deal.

Aquarius (20 January - 18 February) The past few months might have been all right, although perhaps a bit lackluster, but March will be simply beautiful for you. It comes all wrapped and tied with a big red bow. March is due to be a glorious month, as eve- rything works together to create a dramatic and exciting set of opportunities for you.

Pisces (19 February - 20 March) This month, is a crown of glit- tering stars - you may get ideas when you sleep and dream, or get flashes at odd times like when in a taxi cab or in the shower. Your intuition and instinct are so sharp that your ideas won't only be brilliant, but also right on target for the public to buy, too.

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 13 Guyanese among Caribbean Fusion most generous March people at Heritage Park By CATHERINE RAMPELL

he United States is the fifth 8. Britain lans have been finalized for ture with its foods, music, and arts. most-generous country on 8. Sri Lanka this year’s Caribbean Fusion- a Also, a free health fair will be part of earth, tied with Switzerland, 10 Austria T cultural extravaganza- in Kis- the festivities,” said Andy King, one of according to a new ranking 11. Lao People’s Democratic Republic P from Gallup’s World Giving Index. 11. Sierra Leone simmee which is to be held on Sunday, the planners of the event. 13. Malta March 27 at Heritage Park. The Carib- . Guyana ranked 16th in the survey thus 14. Iceland bean and Floridian Association, Inc., Many tourists from surrounding coun- making Guyanese among the most 14. Turkmenistan (CAFA) will be the sole host of the ties and states and as far away as New generous people in the world. 16. Guyana “Caribbean Fusion” event this year. York and Canada have made their way The index is based on surveys and oth- 16. Qatar Traditionally, the City of Kissimmee co- to attend and we fully expect that this er research on 153 different countries, 18. Hong Kong hosted, but due to budgetary con- year’s festival will bring them back which together constitute about 95 18. Germany straints, it is no longer able to co-host again to enjoy the Sunshine State. percent of the world’s population. The 18. Denmark the event. survey asks in part about charitable 18. Guinea Admission is free, and the vendors behavior, including donations, volun- Gallup’s analysis of the data found teering habits and taking time to help There is also a new venue for this have to pay for their booths. Proceeds that giving money is more strongly strangers. year’s Caribbean Fusion. Due to the go to various charitable organizations correlated with happiness than with a renovation of the Lake Front Park, the such as Osceola Council for the Aging, Based on this index, Australia and New nation’s gross domestic product. event will be held on March 27, 2011 CAFA scholarship foundation, Red Zealand are tied as the most generous “It would be reasonable to conclude at Heritage Park, 1875 Silver Spur Cross, and the YMCA. nations on earth. that giving is more an emotional act Trail, Kissimmee, FL 34744. The top 21 most generous countries, than a rational one,” the report says. “Good music, great food, beautiful in order, are: Among the other findings, age and “We expect that there will be approxi- crafts, dance, and happy people on a 1. Australia gender affected generous behaviors. mately 3000-5000 people in attend- beautiful day are a combination that is 1. New Zealand Globally, giving money to charity in- ance at this event. hard to beat! As a result, we are sure 3. Ireland creases with age, largely explained by Every year around Easter time for the that local hotels and restaurants will 3. Canada changes in disposable income. Women past eighteen years, Caribbean Fusion benefit from additional tourists as 5. Switzerland are generally more likely to give than has been able to present and promote well. All in all, it is a win-win situation 5. United States men, but only just barely – 30 percent cultural events that bring diversity into for everyone, and we are hoping to 7. Netherlands versus 29 percent the Greater Orlando/Osceola area, by see you there,” King said. showcasing the best of Caribbean Cul-

Buju’s appeal unlikely to succeed-Rowe

Miami-based lawyer who said he advised Buju ably resulted in a two or three year resolution to this feared for his life Banton to take a plea deal soon after his arrest case,” Professor Rowe told the radio station. and decided to on cocaine charges in 2009, says it’s unlikely that play it cool and A “But he elected not to do so, he elected to hire attorneys the singer will succeed in an appeal against his convic- go along with it. and run a very, very exotic defense of entrapment but tion. the entrapment defense does not work in federal court… After the 12- Professor David Rowe, in an interview on Radio Jamaica To tell a jury that the reason why I did something was member jury, by recently, suggested that Buju should have thrown in the because I was not prone to do it and somebody over- virtue of the ver- towel a long time ago because of the evidence that had came my will is very difficult to explain. It’s statistically a dict, threw out been gathered against him. very difficult defense," he added. Buju’s defense, the singer re- The lawyer’s comments came after the 37-year-old sing- Buju’s friend Ian Thomas who is godfather to two of the mained com- er was found guilty of conspiracy to possess with the singer’s children, and another man, James Mack, both of posed. He intent to distribute more than 11 pounds of cocaine; whom were arrested when they tried to buy cocaine hugged his law- attempted possession with the intent to distribute co- from an undercover detective the same day Buju was yer and blew a caine; and using a communication facility to facilitate a arrested, pleaded guilty to their charges and are now kiss at crying sup- drug-trafficking offence. The jurors, who returned with awaiting sentencing. porters in the their decision on day two of deliberations, found him not During the trial, the defense argued that government courtroom before being taken into custody. guilty of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug- informant Alexander Johnson – whom Buju first met on a trafficking offence. He later issued a brief written statement, which was read flight from Madrid, Spain to Miami, Florida in the sum- by his attorney: “Our life and our destiny are sometimes Buju, whose real name is Mark Myrie, could get 15 years mer of 2009 – pressured the entertainer to enter a drug pre-destined and no matter where this journey takes me, in jail. His attorney, David Markus, has indicated that an deal with him. remember I fought the good fight. It was a great man appeal will be filed, as well as a request for bail pending a The prosecution produced audio of a series of conversa- that said my head is bloody but still unbowed. I love you hearing. tions in which Buju was heard discussing buying and sell- all thank you for your support.” But Professor Rowe said that as far back as the night of ing cocaine, as well as videotaped evidence of him Buju’s trial began February 14, a day after he won his Buju’s arrest – December 10, 2009 – he recommended tasting cocaine in a warehouse. first Grammy. that the singer not go to trial to avoid being hit with a But when he took the witness stand, Buju said the con- heavy prison term. It was his second trial, the first having ended in mistrial versations were “just talk”. As for the video, he said he after jurors were unable to reach a unanimous verdict. “When I read the probable cause affidavit, I suggested thought he was being taken to see a boat and when he (Caribbean 360) that he immediately take a plea which would have prob- realized Johnson was serious about dealing drugs, he

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 14 WORLD CUP roundup

he bus carrying the West Indies cricket team The incident occurred after West Indies completed a shattered, but no one was injured." from the stadium to their hotel in Bangladesh crushing nine- victory over the hosts in a match Mustafa Kamal, the Bangladesh Cricket Board president, was stoned on after they thrashed Bangladesh that lasted all of 31.1 overs. The discontent among the T apologized for the incident, but insisted that there was by nine in Mirpur. There were no injuries, but crowd could be seen when they started throwing the enough security in place. "We are sorry about the inci- the players were shaken and the incident raised ques- placards that have "4" and "6" written on them onto the dent. This is the first time it is happening here," he said. tions about the effectiveness of security at the World playing field the moment Bangladesh lost their last wick- "Now we will take extra care. Much more security Cup championship currently beinfg played in India, Sri et to be bowled out for their lowest-ever ODI total - 58. measures will be taken care of." Lanka and Bangladesh. The stones hit the bus when it was about three minutes Kamal said the stones did not come from inside the cor- News of the incident spread across the world within mo- on its way back to the hotel. Spooner said that the team doned-off area, but from far away from the main road. ments as tweeted “a stone by stone” ac- manager, Richie Richardson, would notify the respective "Enough and adequate security measures were in place," count of the incident which resulted in a window of the boards and the ICC soon. There was no panic, he said. he said. "The teams were moving away from the ground bus being broken. "Just make sure you mention that nobody got hurt, eve- to the hotel, and there were enough convoys. There rybody is safe. There is no panic, everybody is fine." "This is some b*******," Chris Gayle tweeted moments were three buses: one was a dummy bus and the two after the incident. "Bangladesh stoning our bus!!! Freak- Gayle was not that calm about it. He tweeted again: others were the team buses. The entire route was cor- ing glass break!!! This is c***, can't believe..what next "This is ridiculous!!! Damn!!! W Cup with so many securi- doned off by the police, and the security was enough. bullets!!!! Kiss teeth". ty an this happen!! Big Joke!!! Trust me I'm not keen "Four or five stones came at one go from maybe five or here!!! Av (every) players lay flat!!!" The team's media manager, Philip Spooner, confirmed six people standing far away from the main road. All the that two windows cracked, but none shattered, and A Bangladesh police official said the fans had mistaken stones came in at one time and they were coming from hence no stone made its way inside. "We left the the West Indies bus for the Bangladesh bus. "The fans far away from the main road. That's why the glass was ground, and on our way back to the hotel, a couple of thought it was the Bangladeshi team bus and they hurled not shattered. The matter is being investigated. Definite- stones did hit our window," Spooner said. stones at it," Imtiaz Ahmed, deputy commissioner of ly, they will be able to catch the guys." police in Dhaka, told AFP. "The window panes were

est Indies batsman has con- tournament, I want to, at this moment, focus on four-day ICC in May 2006 for his alleged involvement with book- firmed that he has refused an offer to replace and not one-day cricket, and try to be out there in the makers. the injured in the Caribbean sun for hours on top of hours. I am doing that at the mo- W Guyana leg-spinner Davendra Bishoo replaced Bravo in team's World Cup squad in the sub-continent. ment. the squad and when contacted, the West Indies Cricket Samuels, who was banned for two years for passing on "However, despite this, I still don't think I am 100 per Board neither confirmed nor denied the reason for Sam- information to bookmakers, said he was approached by cent ready and I want to be honest with myself. I hope uels' refusal. selectors to replace Bravo but turned down the offer the selectors understand and respect my decision," add- because he is not yet ready for a comeback to interna- ed the 30-year-old. Samuels, who has so far scored three centuries and a 50 tional cricket. However, according to a report in 'The Trinidad Express', since returning to regional four-day cricket, however said "First of all, I want to say thanks to the regional selectors the tainted Samuels rejected the opportunity as he that he was looking forward to playing against India and for sitting down and thinking about selecting me for the feared being arrested in India, one of the co-hosts of the Pakistan in the upcoming Digicel home series. World Cup. I am honored to get such a phone call," Sam- mega-event along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. uels was quoted as saying by a Caribbean FM radio sta- "I am definitely looking to play in the upcoming Digicel tion. Samuels represented West Indies in 29 Tests and 103 homes series, so hopefully, I will continue on the road that I am and continue to score centuries," he said. "But as I had said in interviews before the start of the ODIs before being slapped with a two-year ban by the

hen West Indies comprehensively beat lowed was a nine-wicket demolition of Bangladesh which climax. "I was expecting a bigger occasion than this but Bangladesh recently in their world cup en- lasted just 31.1 overs. having said that the wicket seems to be doing a bit," counter Darren Sammy praised the Gayle said. " *who took 3 for 19+ did a bril- W Gayle led West Indies for three years before he was “pep talk” given his team by Chris Gayle just prior to the liant job and all the bowlers stepped up to the plate. The axed, a decision the West Indies board made shortly start of the match. wicket seems to be doing a bit for the spinners." after Gayle had decided against signing a central con- For many West Indies fans this “pep talk” came from the tract, thus freeing him to play Twenty20 competitions in The win gives West Indies four points from three games, most unlikely source, Chris Gayle whose attitude often other countries even if board commitments had to be and Gayle was confident his team was on their way to suggests that he does not appreciate what West Indies compromised. He is, however, still a vital part of West the knockouts. "This will take us through to quarter- cricket mean to the people of the Caribbean. Indies' squad, and Sammy praised his commitment to final," he said, but was quick to add: "We can't relax. the team, saying Gayle played even though he was not Ireland, India and England games are coming. I am trying When Darren Sammy was named West Indies captain in feeling well. to spend some time in the middle; I was trying to sort October last year, one of the few people he received things out as quickly as possible and I will try to give the support from was the man he replaced - Chris Gayle, "It was a brilliant performance by my team-mates," Sam- team good starts." who said at the time: "We are all there to try and guide my said. "Chris Gayle wasn't feeling well today but I and help him." Gayle lived up to his word recently giving thought he came out and showed how committed he is West Indies went into the game ranked lower than Bang- the West Indies team a pre-match motivational speech to the cause." Sammy, himself, made an important con- ladesh in the ICC one-day rankings, and many tipped and warning that Bangladesh would be up for the game. tribution, taking three wickets and a sharp slip catch to Bangladesh's home advantage to give them the edge. remove the dangerous Tamim Iqbal, as West Indies Sammy, however, said he was always confident it was a Sammy was appreciative of Gayle's contribution. "We bowled Bangladesh out for 58. winnable game. "We went out there knowing how cru- were a little flat in the warm-up and he *Gayle+ didn't like cial this game was for us," he said. "We've always fancied that, so he encouraged us to go out there and remember There was not much left for Gayle to do with the bat, but ourselves, but it's up to us to go out there and play com- Bangladesh would be coming hard at us," Sammy told he crossed an important landmark, going past 8,000 one- petitive and consistent cricket." They will now hope to AFP. "Gayle told us 'do not take Bangladesh lightly'." day runs on his way to an unbeaten 37. Gayle said he take that consistency into their next game, another cru- was a bit surprised that the match, which had been built West Indies obviously took Gayle seriously, for what fol- cial one, against Ireland on March 11. up as a crunch tie in Group B, had been such an anti-

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 15 Florida’s Caribbean Sun 16