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PRESORTED AUGUST 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. 9 : 654-7282 THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING NEWS MAGAZINE

~ Dr. Annmarie Mykal Fax, left, and Steve Barnes and other McAlpin are young -born filmmakers representatives with a new movie out and big from the ambitions to break into the Caribbean are mainstream of a very tough appealing to what business, page 15. some see as an ‘out of step’ for leniency on its deportation policy, page 2.

It’s back-to-school time again after the long summer holidays and parents, as well as chil- dren, must gear up for the new year. Caribbean Today offers a special feature, pages 18-21. Jamaica ready for a change… or not? Last month Grenadian-born ~ Jamaicans go to the polls Shalrie Joseph was selected this month to decide whether to to captain U.S. Major League continue with Portia Simpson Soccer’s All-Star team, a big Miller, left, and the PNP, which honor for the New England Revolution star. But the mid- has ruled the country for 18 years, fielder has his eyes on a much or change course with the JLP bigger prize, page 26. Simpson Millerled by Bruce Golding, page 7. Golding

CALL CARIBBEAN TODAY DIRECT FROM JAMAICA 654-7282 INSIDEINSIDE News ...... 2 Food ...... 12 Back To School Feature . .18 Tourism/Travel ...... 24 Viewpoint ...... 9 Health ...... 13 Politics ...... 22 FYI ...... 25 Business ...... 11 Arts/Entertainment ...... 15 Region ...... 23 Sport ...... 26

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2 CARIBBEAN TODAY August 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Have a heart: Caribbean asks ‘out of step’ U.S. for leniency on deportation NELSON A. KING the challenge of the region in deportations. would allow Caribbean immi- dealing with ‘deportees’ and “Human rights law recog- grants facing deportation the WASHINGTON – For many has called on lawmakers here nizes that the privilege of living chance to ask a judge to allow years, deportation has been a to “have a heart” in repealing in any country as a non-citizen them to remain in the U.S. major issue dividing Washington or amending laws that have may be conditional upon obey- when their crimes are rela- and the Caribbean. proven to be very burdensome ing that country’s laws,” she tively minor and their connec- America has sought to on Caribbean states. said. tions, especially family ties, to cleanse itself of Caribbean Testifying last month “However, a country, like the U.S. are strong. nationals, who have done time before the U.S. House of the United States, cannot with- “Providing for propor- for criminal acts, but regional Representatives’ Sub-commit- draw that privilege without tionality in deportation and leaders have consistently argued tee on Western Hemispheric protecting the human rights of protecting family unity are that the practice is unjust Affairs, Alison Parker, an the immigrants it previously essential to a just and fair because some of those deported attorney and senior researcher allowed to enter,” she added. immigration policy,” she told have learnt their criminal ways for Human Rights Watch, said the committee, chaired by in the United States. the U.S. is “far out of step” CHANCE New York Democratic with international human rights Parker, therefore, called on Congressman Eliot Engels. OneRU072907AA_5_56x10 Washington-based 7/24/07 10:40 AM Page 1 - Photograph by Derrick A. Scott human rights group has seen standards with respect to Congress to reinstate hearings that “And, this cannot be accomplished without Dr. Annmarie Barnes, chief technical director in Jamaica’s Ministry of National Security, testifying amending U.S. immigration before the U.S. House of Representatives law to allow for relatively Committee on Foreign Affairs’ Subcommittee on simple balancing hearings,” the Western Hemisphere. she added. Parker said about the non-citizen has lived here 672,593 legal immigrants in the legally for decades, built a home U.S. have been deported under and family, ran a business, or the 1996 immigration law, paid taxes,” she said. which requires mandatory “And, these laws do not deportation of non-citizens apply only to serious crimes ® convicted of a crime after they but also to minor offenses,” she Jansport have served prison terms. “It does not matter whether Backpacks (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4) $3999 Starting at 389531 99 U.S. Congressman puts focus $ 99 24 24 Reg. $24.99 – $59.99 520992 on Caribbean tax havens Offer available in store only. Selection varies by location. WASHINGTON, CMC – A President George W. Bush United States Democratic will veto the bill partially Congressman has introduced because of the tax measure. a bill in the House of “I don’t think that there Representatives that would is a farmer or rancher in make it more difficult for America that says we ought to American companies overseas to use Caribbean tax havens to avert paying taxes on profits. Lloyd Doggett, who rep- 24 PK resents Texas, introduced the measure late last month hop- ing that it would be tagged on % to an unrelated farm bill. “This bill requires inter- ¢ national tax dodgers to pay 49 each their fair share,” said Doggett, Scholastic 24ct Crayons a member of the House of back 278392 Reg. 79¢ Representatives’ Ways and 5 Means Committee. to the school of “This legislation will help stop foreign-owned businesses Dogget from abusing our tax treaties,” your choice he added. have higher taxes to help see below for details A frequent critic of finance farm bills,” he said. American companies that U.S. Treasury Secretary establish offices in the region Andrew DeSouza said the bill to reduce U.S. tax liability, would undermine the United Doggett said the measure, if States’ tax treaty network, passed, would raise new rev- “which would discourage enues to the tune of $7.5 bil- investment in the United When lion over 10 years. He identi- States and threaten the impor- ¢ ¢ purchased fied companies, such as tant jobs those investments as a 6-PK Accenture Ltd. in , create.” each among alleged tax dodgers. The measure has also 5 ® 10 each Office Depot Brand Wirebound Notebooks 6-PK “This ‘tax abuse’ for for- been attacked by other Washable School 1-Subject, Wide Ruled, Assorted Colors 6 PK Glue 293799 60¢ per pack Reg. $1.99 per pack eign corporations became a ‘tax Republicans on the Ways 4 oz, 477056 Reg. 79¢ Offer available in store only. Offer available in store Quantities limited. While supplies last. increase’ as they (Republicans) and Means Committee. only. Quantities limited. Limit 5 per customer. While supplies last. scurried for reasons to kill But Doggett said the Limit 5 per customer. the House farm bill,” said bill “would have no effect 5% Back To Schools Program: Limited to Pre-K-12th grade. 5% of qualifying school supply purchases made during each program period will be offered to the participating school designated by each customer quarterly in the form of an Office Depot® Merchandise Card (computers, TVs, all technology items including personal digital assistants North Dakota Democratic on legitimate multinational [PDAs], all furniture items and accessories, some bulk packaged products, ink & toner cartridges, Gift Cards and purchases made to contract business accounts are not qualifying purchases). Credits are not available to schools with less than $10 in tallied credits per quarter. Unaccepted/declined credits are void. Other restrictions apply, visit Representative Earl Pomeroy. corporations that are not your local Office Depot® for details. Office Depot® will honor up to $10 million in total credits to the designated schools that opt to participate. employing a haven to Prices and offers are valid 7/29/07 through 8/4/07 (unless otherwise noted), in Store only, limited to stock on hand, and not valid VETO dodge American taxes.” when ordered by phone or online for delivery or in store pickup. Offers are not combinable with any other offers and not valid on But U.S. Agriculture purchases by contract customers with Store Purchasing and Procurement cards. NO rainchecks OR substitutions except where required by law. We are not responsible for printing or typographical errors. Intermediate markdowns may have been taken. Secretary Mike Johanns said ®

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August 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 3

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4 CARIBBEAN TODAY August 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Grenada-born ex-judge jailed Compton to step down as NEW YORK, CMC - A when he sat on the bench. He Grenadian, who served as said he had declared bankrupt- St. Lucia’s P.M.by year-end a former New York State cy in order to survive, but a CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – public and King admitted that St. Supreme Court judge, Manhattan Supreme Court St. Lucia will have a new prime Lucians were within their right to was last month sent back judge in May had jailed him minister before the end of the call for a suitable replacement for to jail after failing to con- after he was unable to pay year, according to acting Prime the elder statesman. vince a Manhattan child support for four years. Minister Stephenson King. Supreme Court that he Mason asked the court to King told reporters that EXIT couldn’t support his three reduce his child support payments, the government is now in a King said he recently held children. but Justice Lobis declined, sending position to outline the time talks with Sir John and that Reynold Mason told him back to the Manhattan frame by which ailing Prime indications were the prime Justice Joan Lobis that Detention Center until he is able Minister Sir John Compton will minister would be making his he was “dead broke” Ex-judge Mason, right, being escorted in handcuffs to pay the $75,000 bond for his demit office allowing for the exit from active politics paving and could not meet the in May. children. appointment of his successor. the way for a successor. $250,000 backlog of child “I find his testimony lack- Sir John, 82, who led the “This would be a timely up to earn money,” he added, support payments to his ex- ing in credibility in a number of United Workers Party (UWP) moment for this to be executed. wife, Guyana-born Tessa even though disclosing he had places,” Justice Lobis said, stat- back into government last It will definitely happen before Abrams Mason. purchased a $9,000 car as ing that his financial statements, December after a 10-year the end of the year,” he said. “I made a lot of mistakes,” transport to sell real estate. signed under oath, were “shock- absence, has been suffering The departure of Sir John Mason told the court, stating ing” and “not complete.” from a series of mild strokes could also result in a by-election that he was trying desperately BANKRUPTCY “That he is not able to since April requiring his hospi- in the Micoud North constituen- to honor the back payments Mason told the court that honor his own oath is of con- talization in the United States cy, which Sir John re-captured without success. he had only been able to make cern to the court,” she added. and at home. in the December polls. “I was trying to set myself $68,000 in 2005 and 2006, com- He has been rarely seen in pared to $136,700 annually ® ® Have a heart: Caribbean asks ‘out of step’ U.S. for leniency on deportation (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) year 2006 was a record year, Secretary of State Condoleezza “their propensity to criminality review of the legislative frame- with 196,707 deportations from Rice, and Congressional leaders, remains intact. work that governs the deporta- added. the US; and that fiscal year including the Congressional “By expanding the locale tion of long- term residents. Human Rights Watch esti- 2007 is “currently on pace to Black Caucus, during June’s for criminal enterprise, depor- mates that 1.6 million adults exceed fiscal year 2006 by 10 Conference on the Caribbean in tation poses serious challenges HELP and children, including U.S. cit- percent.” Washington. not only to national security In addition, among other izens, have been separated He said Jamaica, with Speaking on behalf of interests in receiving countries, things, Barnes called for the from their spouses and parents 1,426 deportations, was among CARICOM, Dr. Annmarie but also to the management allocation of technical and because of this legislation. the top 10 countries in the Barnes, chief technical director and control of security global- financial resources to support “Families have been torn Western Hemisphere for crimi- in Jamaica’s Ministry of ly,” Barnes said. social reintegration and law apart because of a single, even nal and non-criminal deporta- National Security, told U.S. leg- She pointed to a recent enforcement programs in minor, misstep, such as shoplifting tions in fiscal year 2006. islators that the mass deporta- CARICOM study that found receiving countries, including, or drug possession,” Parker said. Mexico topped the list with tion of criminal offenders to that almost 30,000 criminal support for the re-integration 114,640 deportations. the Caribbean constitutes one offenders have been deported of deported persons who need INCREASE The impact of the deporta- of the greatest threats to to Guyana, Jamaica, and training and access to rehabili- Gary E. Mead, assistant tions on the Caribbean has been regional security. She testified Trinidad and Tobago between tative programming; financial director for Management so adverse that CARICOM lead- that while the vast majority of 1990 and 2005. support for establishment of Office of Detention and ers were forced to put it on the deported convicted felons In analyzing the data, transitional facilities; and Removal Operations in the front burner when they met with might have been stripped of Barnes said over 17,000 were increased support for law Department of Homeland U.S. President George W. Bush, their material possessions, deported for drug offences; enforcement services in the Security, testified that fiscal almost 1,800 for possession of receiving countries. illegal firearms, and over 600 Charles S. Shapiro, princi- for murder, stating that the pal deputy assistant secretary of U.S. is responsible for over 75 state in the Bureau of Western percent of all criminal deporta- Hemisphere Affairs, said the tions to the region. U.S. has already begun address- With a combined popula- ing some of those issues. tion of less than five million “ICE (Immigration and people in the countries studied, Customs Enforcement) offered she said the impact of this relo- to provide to CARICOM mem- cation of criminal offenders bers the computer hardware and would be roughly equivalent to software of the eTD system, the influx, into the U.S., of which has already been shown more than one million convict- to be successful in Central ed drug offenders, and close to America,” he told the hearing. 40,000 convicted murderers. “With the support of the Department of State, DHS HARDSHIPS (Department of Homeland Barnes said the study also Security) has begun to brief found that many deported per- individual governments on the sons continue to engage in system,” he added. crime subsequent to their In addition, he said the deportation. U.S. hopes to use a pilot She said of 345 deported deportee re-integration pro- persons interviewed, the major- gram in Haiti in other CARI- ity were parents whose chil- COM states in the future. dren in the U.S. face extreme But Grenada’s U.S. hardships, both emotionally Ambassador Dr. Denis and financially. Antoine, told the Caribbean The Caribbean security Media Corporation, that he is expert, therefore, urged ambivalent about the pilot pro- Washington to establish proce- gram in Haiti. dural guidelines that would “We have to look at it help to “streamline the depor- gradually,” he said. “They tation process, with due regard (U.S.) should not feel that for the interests of both deport- what can happen in Haiti can ing and receiving countries.” happen elsewhere.” She also recommended a ®

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6 CARIBBEAN TODAY August 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Call for better working relationship Congressman wants New York between U.S. and the Caribbean to host next Caribbean confab NEW YORK, - Influential “It’s going to happen,” WASHINGTON, CMC – A assistance to its neighbors in the the U.S. and and United States Democratic Rangel affirmed. United States-based think form of drug interdiction train- Barbuda over Internet gaming Congressman Charles Rangel In June, Caribbean leaders tank says there is need for the ing and equipment,” it added. needs to be resolved speedily. is lobbying for New York City participated in what has been resolution of a number of “A recent decision by the to host next year’s Conference described as a “very success- issues between the U.S. and SOLUTION VITAL court of the WTO (World on the Caribbean. ful” conference in Washington, the Caribbean. COHA said, with United Trade Organisation) ruled in Rangel, chairman of the the highlight of which was a In its latest report on the Nations figures showing 40 favor of Antigua-Barbuda powerful U.S. House of summit between regional lead- Caribbean, the Council on percent of the 200,000 tons of against the U.S.,” it said. Representatives, said he had ers and U.S. Hemispheric Affairs (COHA) cocaine shipped to the U.S. “Nevertheless, the U.S. already informed Caribbean President identified the controversial every year pass through the remains non-compliant with leaders of his position during George W. the recently concluded Bush. Shiprider Agreement among Caribbean and Central the ruling, denying the island Caribbean community (CARI- The the outstanding disputes. America, “a solution to these nation of 70,000 the right to COM) summit in Barbados. regional The Shiprider Agreement disputes is vital.” provide online gaming to U.S. “I suggested to them, and leaders also enables U.S. and Caribbean According to the U.S. Internet customers. it seems as if it received a very met with law enforcement teams to Institute for Policy Studies, “The decision of the warm reception. I was talking other U.S. work together in the region’s the 1996 Shiprider agreements WTO must be respected, so to the leaders of the sense of legislators territorial waters to beat drug were “intended to advance this bothersome quarrel, pride that I felt as a non- while in traffickers’ attempts to move international drug cooperation which only reflects poorly Caribbean person at the sum- Washington cocaine from South America between the U.S. and the upon the U.S., can be proper- mit,” he told reporters. noting they Rangel to the U.S. The agreement Caribbean”. The agreements ly remedied,” it added. “I said imagine if you were able also allows them to co-operate stipulated that, in accordance would allow us in the Black to strengthen relations with the in shipboarding, shipriding with anti-narcotic measures, STRATEGIC Caucus to feel that if you CBC, of which Rangel, who and overflight. any U.S. Coast Guard vessel Last month, Antigua and came to New York, how those represents Harlem, is a power- “Although some nations be permitted to enter national Barbuda formally filed a com- of Caribbean backgrounds, ful member. signed the agreement, there waters of a Caribbean country plaint to the WTO for com- how proud they would feel. The CBC now comprises has been strong opposition to once a local law enforcement pensation for U.S.’s non-com- “If Brooklyn ever got 43 members, holding four it from others,” COHA said. official was aboard. pliance. The WTO’s Dispute hold of that, it would be amaz- important chairmanships of “Jamaica and Guyana, for COHA said, in the late Settlement Body is expected ing,” he added. Congressional committees, instance, have refused to 1990s, the Shiprider agree- to rule shortly on the matter. including Rangel’s, the House implement the agreements or ments led to severe criticism The council said, since the PARTICIPATION Committee on Homeland have imposed stricter limits on from many Caribbean nations, Caribbean is geopolitically The congressman said if Security, and the House them, subsequently feeling the “which prefer to work within a strategic in terms of security, the next Conference on the Judiciary Committee. consequences of their actions. framework of cooperation, U.S. cooperation with CARI- Caribbean is held in New York, “The CBC and CARICOM “The U.S. has threatened based on democratic principles COM is essential in combating it would enable greater partici- pledged to strengthen their rela- economic sanctions in the past and respect for sovereignty”. organized crime, drug traffick- pation from the Congressional tionship in a structured manner,” for failure to implement the In addition, COHA said Black Caucus (CBC) and the said Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the St. measures, as well as refused the ongoing dispute between (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8) Caribbean diaspora in New Vincent and the Grenadines York, which has the greatest prime minister and former concentration of Caribbean CARICOM chairman. nationals in the U.S. ® WantWant toto buildbuild itit right?right? Caribbean nations mark GoGo toto Emancipation Day, Aug. 1 GEORGETOWN, Guyana, persons, including Jamaican sci- CMC – Several Caribbean entist Carl Blackwood and countries on Aug. 1 observed Ghanaian freedom fighter and Whether you want to build a fence around the 173rd anniversary of the Pan Africanist Kojo Tsikata, your property or add another bathroom to your abolition of the Trans Atlantic were sched- Slave Trade, urging their cos- uled to home, you probably have plenty of questions mopolitan societies to contin- receive the about how the building process works in ue working towards living in a Sylvester Miami-Dade County. region noted for its tolerance William and equality. Award for How do you get a permit? In Guyana, President Excellence at Is your contractor licensed? Bharrat Jagdeo urged nation- a function als to consolidate the gains of here on Aug. Are the construction products up to code? freedom. Jagdeo restated his 1. administration’s dedication The ECS Jagdeo Who reviews your plans? The city, the county or both? “to zealously pursue, both said that com- Go to Buildit.miamidade.gov and find answers to these questions within the region, at the level poser and ethnomusicologist of CARICOM and at all Pat Bishop, and calypsonian and more. That’s why the Buildit portal was created, to offer a international fora, the case for Kelvin Pope (The Might “one-stop shop” that ties together the facts, tools and reparations.” Duke), would also be honored resources most customers need to complete a building project. In Trinidad and Tobago, with the award that, since its where Uganda’s President inception in 2000, has sought Yoweri Museveni arrived on to honor some of the most Want to learn more? Visit us online at July 31 to participate in the eminent personalities from Emancipation Day activities, across the African diaspora. Buildit.miamidade.gov Prime Minister Patrick Manning Emancipation Day is said the emancipation of slaves observed as a public holiday in 1834 was “one of the most in a number of Caribbean important and decisive moments states including Guyana, in the evolution of human civi- Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica lization.” and Barbados. The Emancipation Support Committee (ECS) said that four ®

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NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com To change or not change course: The question facing Jamaica’s voters GORDON WILLIAMS Yet, hours before the gangs are at war. likely wait for the outcome.” Minister Portia Simpson street-side parking in the area Similar situations exist else- The need for information Miller, is perceived to be KINGSTON, Jamaica – It’s surrounding Oxford Road had where in the nation’s capital from the political leaders has ahead in the opinion polls early Sunday, just four weeks flowed over, a few miles on and other spots throughout spread to Jamaicans overseas. despite 18 years in power before general elections and Mountain View Avenue, east the country – St. James, St. On July 26 the PNP and JLP which have been tainted by music lovers file steadily into an Kingston, the snaking road en Catherine and Clarendon. In dispatched representatives to scandals, a surging crime wave uptown “oldies” session southern St. Andrew, longtime and rising cost of living here. gang feuds bubble over into prompted by the strug- Common sense nor- the political spectrum. A few gling Jamaican dollar. mally dictates that being nights earlier shots rang Bruce Golding, who out on the town after dark throughout the night near heads the JLP, is seen as in the run-up to national August Town, St. Andrew, smart and practical, but polls can be risky business close to the country’s top two lacking charisma to in the nation’s capital, but universities. Visitors to match Simpson Miller, the huge crowd flooding Jamaica, even in the safety of Jamaica’s first female into Mas Camp thinks oth- houses, flinch at each explo- P.M., who plays the gen- erwise. sion. The next day the death der, religion and “humble Outside just before 1 tally is announced. Citizens background” cards to the a.m., the line at the shrug, even when the toll hilt. Some are still con- includes infants and elderly. It fused at her insistence entrance, next to the coun- Simpson Golding try’s main financial district, is the same elsewhere. that the country will “not is still long. Even at a town hall meeting in change course” under a new J$1,000 ($15) a head, inside is route to Kingston’s interna- DIFFERENT? Miramar, Florida organized by PNP government. Others do already packed and, as the tional airport is almost desert- But more curious is that the Jamaican Diaspora not trust Golding, after he classics pump loudly ed. The tension is as thick as even as the election campaign Southern United States. An first fled the JLP to form his through the speakers, patrons gun-smoke, which frequently heats up, with the ruling estimated 150 people turned own National Democratic sip beer or soup and chomp rises into the air. Even in People’s National Party (PNP) up. Jamaica’s Minister of Movement (NDM) and then down on jerk chicken as they broad daylight, many drivers and Opposition Jamaica Industry, Technology, Energy returned to the JLP. Even as rock away to Beres Hammond avoid that stretch, where the Labour Party (JLP) getting and Commerce Phillip he argued for a fixed election and Buju Banton. The mood sound of shots are as common into full mudslinging mode Paulwell, no stranger to con- date recently, his predecessor is mellow. as engines purring. Political with sometimes humorous troversy at home, boasted as party leader offered alter- media advertisements flavored about the PNP’s record on native arguments. more with style than sub- taming interest rates and Trinidadians extradited to U.S. stance, the population seems unemployment. Yet Karl CONCERNS generally unperturbed. Chung, a Florida-based JLP Last month, when Simpson to face kidnapping charges “It’s different this time,” representative, pointed to Miller announced Nomination an assistant manager at one of Jamaica’s monstrous debt. Day for Aug. 7 and Election , Trinidad, guilty several months ago after the nation’s top financial insti- “The vision for Jamaica is Day as Aug. 27, the debate CMC - Four Trinidadians were entering a plea agreement with tutions explained to Caribbean one word,” Chung told the centered more on the prime extradited to the United States U.S. authorities. They are yet to Today. “People are not run- audience, “change. Change, minister’s perceived infatuation late last month on charges of be sentenced. ning away. And they are still change, change.” with the number seven. But kidnapping war veteran Balram Up to press time, former investing, whereas during elec- However, the PNP, now Maharaj. soldier Jason Percival, who was tions gone by they would more being led by popular Prime (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8) Anderson Straker, the main prosecution witness, Christopher Sealey, Kevin had not formally entered a Nixon and Wayne Pierre were plea, while David Suchit was accompanied to the U.S. by six found not guilty by a U.S. jury special agents of the Federal and later returned to Trinidad. Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Four other persons have on an FBI aircraft. challenged the decision of Earlier in the month Chief Magistrate Sherman Magistrate Lianne Lee Kim McNicolls to have them extra- ordered the four men extradited dited to face trial in the U.S. to face charges of hostage-taking. Maharaj 62, was kidnapped The four men had 15 days in outside a restaurant on which to challenge the extradi- April 5, 2005 and TT$3 million tion order, but they failed to do ($500,000) demanded for his so. They joined four others, release. His dismembered body including Russell Joseph and was found in a forest. Winston Gittens, who pleaded ® U.S. helps B’dos battle fly BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, mologist Tim Holler said the CMC – The United States is uniqueness of the Barbadian assisting Barbados in its effort situation allows for interesting to curb the spread of the West scientific comparisons among Indian Fruit Fly, indicating countries. that the strategy developed “We are trying to develop here could help fight the pest the methodologies that we can in other countries. use to take a biological con- The fly has been affecting trol program into a country,” Jamaica plums, hog plums, Holler explained. “We are try- chili plums and guava trees ing to develop this formula across Barbados. that everyone can use…before Local entomologis, Ian the pest population grows.” Gibbs last month said it was Since 2006, USDA has “virtually all over the island,” been shipping parasitoid but assured that the popula- wasps to Barbados on a tion was still relatively low. regular basis. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) ento- ®

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8 CARIBBEAN TODAY August 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Diplomat wants greater U.S. focus on smaller Caribbean islands WASHINGTON – A Caribbean given to the smaller entities of She said the initiative would mention was also made about diplomat has called on the the Caribbean. unite experts from the United projects in Jamaica and Haiti, United States to place greater “I hope their vulnerabili- States, Brazil, Costa Rica, and but not a word was said about focus on the smaller islands of ties would be recognized. A lit- Mexico in the fight against initiatives in his country, for the region. tle goes a long way,” Antoine breast cancer, the most com- instance. Denis Antoine, Grenada’s added. mon cause of cancer-related “The U.S. assisted ambassador to the U.S., Representatives from death for women worldwide. Grenada with hurricane relief, told the Caribbean Media more than 150 regional-based President Bush said the but we did not hear anything Corporation (CMC) during the organizations and 100 U.S. U.S. has provided over $950 mentioned about activities in inaugural Conference on the groups attended the confer- million to improve healthcare Grenada,” he explained. Americas here last month, that ence, which came on the heels in the Western Hemisphere Antoine, however, viewed while he welcomed the initia- of June’s Conference on the since 2001. the overall concept as “a wel- tive, there was nothing sub- Caribbean here. come exercise of neighborli- stantial in it for countries in NOTHING NEW ness. the sub-regional Organization THEME Antoine said while the “It’s in good taste, of Eastern Caribbean States The White House Antoine conference was interesting, occurring at the end of the (OECS). Conference of the Americas the themes were not new. Conference on the Caribbean. “In the context of the was held under the theme Bush told delegates that his “It’s clear that greater It’s an unselfish demonstration Americas, the smaller islands “Advancing the Cause of administration is “doing a lot emphasis is emerging on the of concern that we hope will are not mentioned on the Social Justice in the Americas”. to promote health” in the larger populations of the become a legacy for future United States’ radar screen, Topics included expanding eco- region. During last month’s hemisphere,” he said. U.S. administrations. It should but the larger islands are get- nomic opportunity, investing in conference, the president’s “Jamaica, Guyana and Haiti be a concept of consistency,” ting some focus,” Antoine said. education, meeting health care wife Laura Bush announced were very visible. Outside of he told CMC. “Nothing is wrong with needs, and building public-pri- the launch of the Partnership that, it seems like the other helping the larger islands, but vate partnerships. for Breast Cancer Awareness islands do not exist.” ® I hope some focus can be U.S. President George W. and Research of the Americas. The Grenada envoy said To change or not change course: The question facing Jamaica’s voters Street Address: (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7) each other of such acts and After Parliament was dis- done to protect the nation’s 9020 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33157 lying to cover them up. During solved last month, 60 con- most vital resource. The mid- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6010 concerns that the lengthy peri- a rally in St. Catherine late last stituency seats went up for dle class is questioning its Miami, FL 33116-6010. od between the announcement month, Golding said the JLP grabs. And while several are resolve to continue with its Telephone: (305) 238-2868 and the actual date of the polls was “structuring our campaign considered safe – including current lifestyle. (305) 253-6029 • Fax: (305) 252-7843 also surfaced. “The devil finds to avoid confrontation.” But Simpson Miller’s and On many fronts, it seems, Toll-Free Fax: 1-866-290-4550 work for idle hands,” older more discomforting was his Golding’s – political pundits there is not much to cheer about 1-800-605-7516 • Jamaica: 654-7282 Jamaicans like to say. During declaration at the same event are predicting a few surprises in the “Land of Wood and E-mail: [email protected] the run-up to elections, “idle that “I can’t give you any guar- as well. A recent, unscientific Water”. The general elections Send ads to: [email protected] hands” often find themselves antee that I won’t have more poll which appeared on the will be held around the time of Vol. 18, Number 9 • AUGUST 2007 wrapped around the handle labourites to bury.” PNP’s website cheekily the World Championships of of a gun. Yet as the political Despite all that, a heavy showed the JLP ahead. Athletics in Japan. Jamaica violence continued to escalate, PETER A WEBLEY contingent of local and inter- Yet, among the biggest usually does well in track and Publisher Simpson Miller declared last national observers is expected concerns, is what exactly the field. That may be a welcome month that her party would not to monitor the elections. The voters will be casting their bal- distraction. GORDON WILLIAMS meet directly with the JLP for Electoral Office of Jamaica lots in favor of, or against - or There are others. The saga Managing Editor “peace talks” unless a third has declared that all systems if they really care. Both par- surrounding the break-up of party was present. should be ready for Aug. 27 ties were late – some political big name entertainer Beenie SABRINA FENNELL Both PNP and JLP insist and warned that no Election experts say deliberately so – Man and his wife D’Angel Graphic Artist they are not the instigators of Day trickery – not uncommon offering their post-election dominated the front page of a political violence, accusing in Jamaica – will be tolerated. plans to the public. With local evening tabloid for days DOROTHY CHIN scanty information to go on, in a row late last month. Account Executive except the government’s Copies sold briskly. That same Call for better working relationship SUNDAY SELLERS record and the Opposition’s newspaper ran a story high- Account Executive knee-jerk barking at it, “John lighting where parties can be between U.S. and the Caribbean P” could be left swinging in found every day of the week. the dark come Aug. 27. After Election fever may be in JULISSA RAMOS (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6) major global partners is neces- issuing several “crime plans” the air in Jamaica, but outside Accounting Manager sary in the pursuit of overall Caribbean Media Source ing, and terrorism. in nearly two decades at the of the diehard political fac- Media Representatives Caribbean development goals. country’s helm, the PNP has tions, it seems the nation’s citi- “In this respect, the “Conversely, one would hope not stemmed the violence that zens are more willing to dance TOM JONAS Caribbean and the U.S. must that President Bush’s renewal be able to support and main- grips the Caribbean nation than catch it. 353 St. Nicolas Street, Suite 200 of the CBI (Caribbean Basin and has pushed it near the top Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2Y 2P1 tain healthy relations into the Tel: (514) 931-0422 • Fax: (514) 931-0455 Initiative) and the recent of the most murderous in the Gordon Williams is Caribbean future,” it said. Conference on the Caribbean E-mail: [email protected] “CARICOM is wise to world. The health care and Today’s managing editor. signify a revitalisation of the education systems are under Jamaica Bureau take advantage of the oppor- U.S.-Caribbean relationship MARIE GREGORY tunity of high-level meetings siege. Environmentalists are ® that has been characteristical- wondering aloud what will be (876) 925-5640 with the U.S. After all, the ly absent during his two terms P.O. Box 127, Constant Spring U.S. is the Caribbean’s closest in office. Kingston 8, Jamaica developed neighbor, its most “Considering the Bush Opinions expressed by editors and significant trading partner, and Administration’s consistent PLEASE NOTE writers are not necessarily those of the publisher. the home of the largest num- preoccupation with other ber of emigrants from the • Haiti and Belize are mem- • Caribbean Today is request- regions of the globe and bers of the Caribbean com- ing that all editorial corre- Caribbean Today, an independent region,” it said. America’s increasingly tat- news magazine, is published every month munity (CARICOM). The spondence be e-mailed to by Caribbean Publishing & Services, Inc. COHA said with a popula- tered image around the world, tion at barely five percent of July issue of Caribbean [email protected]. Subscription rates are: US$20 per year such a conclusion might be Today, in a story carrying the Effective Sept. 1, 2007, the (Bulk); 1st Class $35 per year. that of the U.S., Caribbean refreshing not only for other- Caribbean Today is not responsible integration will better prepare headline “Talk shop or not, e-mail address wise fragile Caribbean Caribbean leaders flex mus- [email protected] for unsolicited manuscripts or photos. To CARICOM nations to find economies but for a battered guarantee return, please include a self- their niche in the global market. cles on Capitol Hill”, reported will no longer be in service. We addressed stamped envelope. U.S. regime policy as well,” incorrectly that they were not. appreciate your co-operation. Articles appearing in Caribbean However, it said a “good COHA said. rapport” with the region’s We apologize for the error. Today may not be reproduced without ® ® written permission of the editor.

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VIEWPOINT www.caribbeantoday.com Voting from afar Secret lives of women GORDON WILLIAMS maintain residences in the Caribbean, register to vote hen a woman who is there, and make sure they line perceived to be virtu- aribbean nations are ous, respectable, gearing up for elections up at the polling station on W Election Day. domesticated and wifely takes Cthis year. Jamaica, for unto herself a lover, men freak example, has scheduled its But what many in the dis- apora are seeking, is the right out. general polls for Aug. 27. It’s like they were blind- Other nations from the region to stay outside the region and cast their vote, claiming that if sided, hit by a left hook that are hinting that voting in 2007 they never saw coming, taken is a distinct possibility, even if they don’t go to the Caribbean to drop off remittances or bar- completely by surprise, and not constitutionally due. that’s why it upsets and hurts Outside the Caribbean, rels, why can’t they mail in their ballots too? them so. the call for allowing members “I never thought that my of the diaspora the opportuni- wife would go with another ty to vote in regional elections HITCH Well, from a practical man, never in my wildest has gained momentum. More dreams. All those evenings she people want to be able to standpoint, that could work. It’s just hard to understand gone to prayer meeting, and is send their votes home. the parson she deh with.” At June’s “Conference on why the diaspora would want to embrace this route anytime It really burns. But it’s the Caribbean: A 20/20 because of this foolish notion Vision” in Washington D.C., soon. Generally, the election that men have, that women do tions. Now just like men, women also have many made it clear to leaders machinery in the Caribbean not, and will not stray, plus the we all know sex driven affairs. For as sure from the region that they needs a vital upgrade. All fact that wives are ‘property’ how that as night follows day, sex even- would like to play more sig- sorts of shenanigans occur why it burns them when they do. friendship at tually dies after marriage. nificant roles in the develop- around election time in the Some women have confid- work scenario But hear this now, that ment of the land of their region. Even after significant ed to me that every few months plays out. death can be resuscitated if a birth. They say they deserve improvements have been they have to go outside for a The wife third party enters the grave- that right. done. And the mishaps are little taste of something differ- spends a yard. That same sexless frumpy They make a solid point. not from decades past either. ent, even though it will not whole heap wife can become a raging infer- Remittances help keep many When was the last Caribbean affect their relationship with of time with TONY no if some young stud woos Caribbean nations afloat eco- election? It probably hap- their husbands. her boss or ROBINSON and wins her. And, as for the nomically. And as more chari- pened then too. “I wish men could under- co-worker in husband, all he wants is a wink table causes orchestrated by If people in the diaspora stand that women have the the prime from a young lass and the force Caribbean nationals overseas really want to have a bigger same wanderlust that men hours of the day, with her at of a thousand dormant volca- continue to benefit the region, influence, then they should have, but just that many are her best. They are in constant noes will erupt with a cata- it is clear that the disapora’s help fix the election machin- afraid to act on it. Well, I’m contact, sharing office stuff, clysmic explosion that will rock impact has become increas- ery. How can a voter living in not,” one woman told me. personal stuff and other stuff, his world. ingly robust. a cushy U.S. suburb really know about people who yearn seeing each other constantly. EYE OPENING By the time she gets home to ALONG COMES JOHN CRITICS for the right to free and fair I recently read some hubby, she is tired, worn out Believe it or not, low self But should members of elections – while facing intim- research papers from various from the day and ready only esteem, brought on by a the diaspora really expect a idation and brutalization - if universities that shed some for housework and child duties. woman constantly doing house- vote in their Caribbean home- they do not live among them? light regarding why women But come tomorrow, she’s fresh work and caring for children, lands if they do not reside In some Caribbean countries cheat. The eye opening find- again and ready to work with will also drive her to have an there? If they are not living in people risk their lives travel- ings of a team of researchers and banter with the man in the affair. Her husband only sees the country, contributing ing to a polling station, not to reported that 53 percent of office. It’s a time that she looks her as a wife, a mother of his directly to its day-to-day mention voting with someone women said that they had been forward to. Naturally some- children, the keeper of the progress, and moreover feel- standing over them. Some unfaithful to their partners, thing is going to happen, and in house, no longer a lover. But ing the impact of its struggles entering polling stations have compared to 59 percent of no time it grows until it along comes John, smooth talk- and their decision at the polls, been told not to bother, some- men. explodes and she gives in. She ing lean and handsome John, they should not be allowed to one has already voted for Still, the reasons why didn’t set out to do it, but it who reminds her how sexy and decide who governs the coun- them. women are unfaithful are dif- happens and it’s her secret. desirable she is. You’d be try, critics argue. They claim Missing ballot boxes, ferent from men. Men are driv- What’s even more reveal- frightened to see how fast she that simply sending money or plus-100 percent voting in en by lust, while women usual- ing, the study unfolds, is that flings off the apron and turns contributing goods, while some constituencies and ly have more complex reasons half of all wives cheat on their off the stove, for she’s desired spending all except your vaca- “accidental” occurrences, and in fact, infidelity can hap- husbands at some point in the again, a whole woman. tion abroad, should not quali- such as late opening and early pen even to good people in marriage and 90 percent feel no Remember, women thrive fy you to help determine who closing of polling stations, are good marriages, the research guilt at all. In fact, they felt on praise and admiration, just rules. They say you simply do not yet a thing of the past in paper says. entitled to cheat, because they like flowers. not know what is really going Caribbean politics. And if all The top three reasons they had been so unhappy in the Just last year my friend’s on. As the Jamaican saying that still occurs in the region, say, are friendships at work, marriage, so the cheating was a wife walked out on him, leav- goes: “See me and come live imagine what could happen if child centered marriages and liberating and justifiable action. with me are two different ballots are coming in from intimate Internet conversa- What’s interesting is that (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) things”. overseas, where the machin- The critics, too, have a ery for accommodating over- point. seas voting has not been fully But, as many in the dis- developed. apora claim, they already So here’s a question for influence elections in the members of the diaspora: If Caribbean. For decades, polit- you want to stay overseas and ical parties have sought cam- vote, wouldn’t it be wise if paign contributions from out- you first make sure your vote side the region. Parties have actually counts? their organizing committees Next time the man with based in North America and the “hat” comes calling, the United Kingdom and reg- maybe you should demand he ularly send representatives to deliver that guarantee before spearhead fundraisers. And you deliver the cash. low-keyed and high profiled supporters alike are all too Gordon Williams is Caribbean eager to pitch cash into the Today’s managing editor. waiting hats. Many in the diaspora also ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com VIEWPOINT as prime minister Guyana’s Home • “At this time • “The WICB cannot win the of Jamaica? Are Affairs Minister there is need to respect of the players and their you ready to give Clement Rohee earn the forgive- representatives by using a ‘big to Jamaica a expressing confi- ness of the stick’ approach” – A statement woman of courage, dence last month Grenadian people last month from The West Indies a woman of deter- that his country by open demon- Cricket Board’s (WICB) • “Criminal deportees sent to the mination, a woman will win the fight stration and proof Governance Review Committee, Caribbean often have established of the people, from against crime. that they take their rehabilitation under the chairmanship of former themselves in the United States” the people and for the people?” seriously” - Prime Minister Dr. Jamaica Prime Minister P.J. – U.S. Congressman Charles – Portia Simpson Miller rallies • “This is an ethical question, but Keith Mitchell last month calling Patterson, underlining that the Rangel last month attributing the her supporters last month while I will not encourage an HIV man on the three convicted men players are the most valuable rising crime rates in the region to announcing the nation’s general to get married because he is recently released from prison, for resource in West Indies cricket the U.S. deportation process. elections date is Aug. 27. going to pass it on to the wife the murder of the island’s first left and should be treated as such. and this is almost like murder” - wing Prime Minister Maurice • “Are you ready for the first • “The criminals can never win Vernon Duncan, a preacher in Bishop, to begin their rehabilita- Compiled from CMC and other time to give Portia a working this fight irrespective of where Grenada, last month offering his tion back into society by showing sources. class woman and leader of the they carry their activities, views on men living with the HIV remorse. winning team her first full term whether it’s on land or river” - virus. ® Secret lives of women (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) son. After a while it gets so hot shut out the husbands in the coming home late, scent of per- between that’s important. That’s that only a consummation can process. After a while she won’t fume and so on. their secret life. ing the three kids behind, all cool the ardour. even like her husband any more But it’s different for a Let us not forget revenge because some guy whispered in But hear this now, the and not know it. Oh, she still woman. The research paper as a motive, as many women her ear. I think it was more research says that women can loves him, because of long serv- says that there are signs that cheat to get back at their men. than whispers, and not in her actually be guilty of emotional ice and devotion, but doesn’t men should look for. Men, be Revenge they say is a meal best ears either. infidelity. The therapist says like him very much and finds concerned, be very concerned eaten cold, but in this case it’s This Internet thing has that if you’re married and share everything he does annoying if your wife suddenly demands hot, hot, hot. Men and women changed the lives of so many secrets with a close friend of and irritating. Some even focus more sex, seems unusually cheat, but the women are better people and has also added fuel the opposite sex or go out for on their children so much that attentive to you, and wears her at it, and have more secrets. to the fire of infidelity. So drinks after work all the time they virtually cheat on their wedding ring more often than Do you know where your many wives have intimate rela- with the same person, you are husbands emotionally with the she did before. wife went today, yesterday, the tionships on the Internet that guilty of emotional infidelity. children without knowing it. “But see hear Barbara, is day before, or what she did, or eventually grow into the real “You can’t have an inti- how you suddenly start to show where she is now? thing. I’m sure you’ve heard mate relationship at work and SCARY me so much loving, is what you That’s her secret, and the term ‘cybersex’. Well, it’s still have a great relationship at What’s even more scary is up to?” you’ll never really know. true, and many women are home. Even if there is no sex, how women can carry on Even so, most women who hooked on it. It’s so easy to it’s still adultery,” he says. affairs and act as if everything cheat stick to their old routine, [email protected] expose yourself and bare your Well, I have been saying so is normal at home. Usually leave for work same time, return soul over the Internet, especial- for years, that women can do when men have affairs the home same time and none’s the ® ly if you’re basically a shy per- this emotional no sex thing and world knows - the cliché of wiser. But it’s what happens in

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BUSINESS www.caribbeantoday.com Heading to an investment seminar? Caribbean to benefit Hold on tight to your wallet seniors from new IDB projects WASHINGTON – Several human trafficking; science and may at best be unnecessary cally refutes). The speaker HUMBERTO CRUZ Caribbean community (CARI- technology; regional policy coor- and at worst totally unsuitable could also refer you to a COM) countries are to benefit dination in support of small and for most. retired attorney to draw up an he grilled salmon at the from a host of new projects medium enterprises; rural devel- “Here is the scary part,” a estate plan, including a revoca- free lunch seminar tast- from a $10 million financing opment; health; education; envi- speaker at a recent seminar ble living trust, at a “terrific Ted fine. The mashed arrangement sponsored by the ronment; and indigenous peoples. potatoes had too much pepper, price”. “This may shock you, but Inter-American Development The IDB has already though. But the worst after- Bank (IDB) approved a number of proposals taste was from the speakers it’s something you need to know,” he said about an 82- The IDB last month identi- from CARICOM countries for who kept scaring and pressur- fied Jamaica, The Bahamas, this year’s financing. These ing the mostly elderly audience year-old widow who did not have a trust “and got kicked Barbados, Guyana, Haiti, include the Regional with half-truths and distor- Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Engineering Accreditation tions. out of her home by her own children.” and Belize as regional beneficiar- System for the Greater Sadly, that has been my ies under its Regional Public Caribbean Region (Jamaica); experience at the half dozen Goods Program. Development of a Caribbean “investment seminars” I’ve CLOSING IN With the audience suffi- The initiative was created Broadband Network (The attended the past few months, in 2004 to promote “regional Bahamas, Barbados, Guyana, all geared to seniors and with ciently scared, it was time to press on. collective action on high-impact Haiti, Jamaica, Suriname, and a free meal thrown in. issues for economic growth and Trinidad and Tobago); Central No wonder. For the first “You are all members of the ‘P’ (for procrastinators) club,” poverty reduction in Latin American Protocol for Drug time this year, “investment Look before you leap: Seniors must be America and the Caribbean”, Procurement and Quality seminars” made the annual list cautious when evaluating investment the speaker said. “Information is only as good as what you do the IDB said in a statement. Control (Belize and Jamaica); of “Top 10 Traps” compiled by opportunities. The new financing, approved and Building Capacities to state securities regulators in with it,” so let’s all make an by the IDB Board of Executive Improve Competitiveness in the the United States. (The list, in repeated. appointment with his firm. Directors, will be provided to Caribbean Agricultural Sector alphabetical order, is available First it was about possibly “What’s the best day for consortia from the 26 borrowing (Barbados, Guyana, Suriname at the website of the North ending up destitute in a nurs- you?,” the speakers asked at IDB-member countries. It said and Trinidad and Tobago). American Securities ing home, then about the gov- each table, signing up almost the projects will cover citizen Administrators Association, ernment “taking away your everyone. Most, I fear, will end security and the fight against ® www.nasaa.org). Social Security benefits after up buying something they don’t “The issues related to you’ve worked all your life” understand, need or want. these ‘lunch programs’ have (he was actually talking about “The problem is, products EXCHANGE OF IDEAS been around for a while,” said paying taxes on your benefits), are being sold without suitability NASAA President Joseph then about losing money in requirements and are being Borg, referring to the sale of stocks. marketed as one size fits all,” unsuitable investments to sen- The solution, another said Borg, director of the iors. “But these seminars have speaker pronounced, lay in Alabama Securities Division. taken on a life of their own.” insurance products their com- “They kick in the fear factor Regulators in seven states - pany offers, including “no-fee” until they wear you down. When Alabama, Arizona, California, equity-indexed annuities that that doesn’t work, they get out Florida, North and South “go up with the stock market the hammer and try to browbeat Carolina and Texas, and others but never go down.” He didn’t you into their product.” may join, Borg said - have been mention the often hefty and As a seminar speaker said: examining sales practices by lengthy surrender charges, the “What are you going to do seminar presenters, sometimes undisclosed, as high as double- about your financial future? If attending the lunches unan- digit commissions built into the the word is nothing (meaning nounced to see what goes on. annuity terms, or the “caps” you don’t buy something) we and other limitations that can all wasted our time.” Perhaps, SCARE TACTICS seriously hold down returns. but at least we saved our From what I’ve seen, what “Your money is actually money. - Photograph by Derrick A. Scott safer with an insurance compa- Vinette Kenne, right, director general of Jamaica’s Tax Office, exchanges documents goes on is a well-orchestrated Dr. Errol Cort, ’s minister of finance, after they signed a tri-par- effort to prey on seniors’ fears ny” than at a federally insured © 2007 Tribune Media bank, he insisted (a common Services, Inc. tite cooperation agreement between the Organization of American States (OAS) and and pressure them into high- the governments of both countries last month in Washington D.C. Antigua and commission products that, claim the Federal Insurance Barbuda will implement Jamaica’s Customs Automated Services (CASE), designed while appropriate for some, Deposit Corporation emphati- ® to provide customs with online trading interaction between countries worldwide. LIAT to buy out Caribbean Star BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, through a $60 CMC - LIAT has scrapped million loan plans of a merger or cashless LIAT is deal with Caribbean Star, negotiating agreeing instead to buy out with the the remaining assets of the Sir Barbados- Allen Stanford-owned airline based for $5 million. Caribbean “We’ve come to the con- Development clusion now that rather than Bank (CDB). giving up the 35 percent share Officials of ownership of the company, said that the Lynch we will just pay him an funds would amount - I believe five million also be used dollars and for the rest of his to settle the airline’s debts and assets,” said Noel Lynch, the restructure its operations. Barbados tourism and interna- A merger plan had initial- tional transport minister. ly been set out for the two Barbados is one of the carriers, but that was scrapped three major shareholder gov- and a cashless deal put in ernments of LIAT. place, which would have seen Lynch told the Caribbean Sir Allen getting 35 percent Media Corporation (CMC) ownership of LIAT. that it is likely that the pur- chase would be funded ®

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FOOD www.caribbeantoday.com Juicy steaks on the outdoor grill can steal the summer show WOLFGANG PUCK Whatever the steak, let it eight to 10 ounces (240 to 300 ings if necessary. A small piece come to room temperature for g), cut an inch (2.5 cm) thick at a time, stir in the remaining ith the summer grilling an hour before grilling, to ensure • 2 cups good-quality canned two tablespoons butter. Then season in full swing, quick, even cooking. Then, just beef broth, reduced to a cup stir in the enoki mushrooms. Whome cooks keep ask- before cooking, season gener- (in a skillet) Set the sauce aside, covered to ing for advice on the best way ously on both sides with sea salt • 2 ounces (60 g) unsalted but- keep it warm. to cook steaks outdoors. and freshly ground pepper and ter When the grill is hot, lightly Achieving steak success at brush with olive oil to prevent • 1 pound (500 g) fresh shiitake or brush the scallions with a little home is surprisingly simple. sticking and help them brown. oyster mushrooms, wiped clean, olive oil. Grill them until Remember that great trimmed and cut into slices a browned and tender, but still results become much easier if COOKING quarter inch (6 mm) thick crunchy, about two minutes per you start with the right steaks. As for the cooking itself, • Salt ‘Simple touches are among the secrets side. Set the onions aside and If budget allows, look for start all steaks directly over the • Freshly ground black pepper to steak success’. keep them warm. Season the USDA Prime meat, the highest hottest part of the fire. If they’re • 1/3 cup cognac (80 ml) steaks on both sides with salt and quality available in tenderness about an inch thick, you can do • 1 small package fresh enoki begin to brown slightly, three to pepper. Brush them with olive oil. and flavor, which will also all the cooking there. But thick- mushrooms five minutes. Season lightly Grill them until medium- ensure great results. er steaks should be seared over • 12 large scallions with salt and pepper. rare, three to four minutes per Use steaks from cattle that the hottest area for three min- • Extra-virgin olive oil, for Remove from the heat, side. Remove from the heat have been raised humanely, utes per side, then moved to the brushing remove the mushrooms from and let rest for a minute or two using traditional, sustainable side to finish cooking. • Chopped fresh chives, for the pan and transfer to a bowl. in a warm place. farming methods, without Test for doneness with an garnish Return the skillet to low heat, Serves four. antibiotics or hormones. instant-read grilling thermome- carefully pour in the cognac If necessary, reheat the Next comes the cut. In ter inserted into the thickest METHOD and, with a long kitchen match, sauce briefly. general, since grilling is a quick part; 130 F to 140 F (54° C to Remove the steaks and carefully ignite. Let the flames Place a grilled scallion on method, you need a tender 60°C) indicates a juicy medium- leave them at room tempera- die out on their own. Then raise the side of each of four warmed steak like a New York, from rare steak. ture for about an hour. the heat and, while stirring and dinner plates. Spoon most of the center loin; a rib-eye, from All that’s left is to serve it Meanwhile, build a fire in scraping with a wooden spoon the mushroom sauce in the the middle of the ribs; a T- however you like - on its own or an outdoor charcoal grill or to deglaze any pan deposits, middle of the plates, reserving bone, from the short loin; or, with a sauce made in the kitchen, preheat a gas grill. At the same cook until the cognac has a few tablespoons. Place a for ultra tenderness, a tender- like my easy mixture of buttery, time, put the broth in a wide reduced to two tablespoons, steak on top of the sauce, loin, also called filet mignon. cognac-laced mushrooms. Simple skillet, bring to a boil and con- about one to two minutes. spoon the remaining sauce If you choose a less expen- touches like that are among the tinue boiling until reduced to a Stir in the reduced beef onto the center of the steak, sive cut, such as flank or hang- secrets to steak success. cup (250 ml), about 10 to 15 broth and continue cooking garnish with chives and serve er steaks, you’ll ensure more minutes. Set aside. until the liquid has thickened immediately. tender results by grilling them New York steaks with In a heavy skillet, heat two slightly, but is still fairly light, © 2007 Wolfgang Puck no more than medium, then mushrooms, grilled scallions tablespoons of the butter over two to three minutes more. Stir Worldwide, Inc. Distributed by letting them rest for 15 minutes high heat until bubbling slight- the shiitake mushrooms and PUB-1168_Jamaican_CarToday 8/3/07 4:37 PM Page 1 Tribune Media Services. after cooking before thinly slic- INGREDIENTS ly. Add the shiitakes and saute, their juices back into the skillet ing across the grain. • 4 New York strip steaks, each stirring frequently, until they and taste and adjust the season- ®

Publix Joins You in Celebrating Jamaica’s Independence Day—8.6.07

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HEALTH www.caribbeantoday.com A GIFT OF HEALTH Bermuda joins U.S. company to start stem cell research HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC involve the destruction of – Premier Ewart Brown and his embryos, which has attracted wife Wanda have teamed up opposition from church groups with an American company, across the world. Stemedica Cell Technologies, to The clinic, named Brown- open a stem cell research center Darrell after the premier’s par- in Bermuda later this year. ents, will be on the site of a Brown, a physician who property in Smith’s parish, is president of Bermuda which is owned by Brown and Healthcare Services, told a is currently being refurbished. news conference last month It will initially be staffed by at that the announcement was least three Bermuda health- one of the most exciting devel- care physicians and two opments in healthcare on the Stemedica physicians. To begin island in recent times. with, it will focus solely on It could ultimately lead to research, but eventually hopes scores of patients a year flying to be able to treat one or two to Bermuda to receive revolu- stem cell patients a week. tionary treatment that could Dr. Maynard Howe, chief help cure illnesses such as executive officer of the Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and California-based Stemedica, - Photograph by Derrick A. Scott spinal cord injuries. said Bermuda was chosen Dan Majors, left, a registered nurse at the Acute Care Unit, Vanderbilt Medical Center in the United States, explains the workings of The company stressed it because of its location near to medical equipment being donated to Jamaica to, from left, Everard Barton, chairman, Department of Medicine, University of West would use adult stem cells the U.S. Indies; Richard Phidd, manager of patient care services at the unit; and Jamaica’s Ambassador to the U.S. Gordon Shirley. Twenty- technology, and would not one dialysis machines, valued at $315,000, were donated last month by Vanderbilt Medical Center’s Division of Nephrology and the ® Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee. Shirley accepted the gift on behalf of the Jamaica government. Seven sensible steps for pill-taking safety SUZY COHEN tion dispensing error, they You bet your life it does. catch, exponentially, more • Don’t put several different QUESTION: My pill was small- errors than they make. Most pills in one bottle (or pocket). er this month than it normally is. you never know about because You might chug the blue pill When I called my pharmacy, by the time you’re handed your when you meant to take the they said they gave me a lower bag at the register, the pharma- white one! dosage of the same drug by acci- cist has already called to lower • Stick to the same pharmacy. I dent. I am understanding a potentially toxic dosage, or know those “Transfer Your because this problem was minor asked your doctor to change Prescription” coupons are tempt- and I’ve made mistakes myself. your medication altogether ing, but how can your pharmacist But, Suzy, I think you should tell because of an allergy or poten- effectively screen for interactions, readers how to cut down on tially harmful interaction. or brainstorm with your physi- medication errors. - D.W., To improve your safety at cian, if some of your meds are Coconut Creek, Florida. the pharmacy counter, follow missing from your profile? these seven sensible steps: • Call your pharmacist immedi- ANSWER: You’re fortunate • Don’t hurry the pharmacist. ately if there’s a change in the that your medicine was just a Pressuring anyone who has your color, size or shape of any of lower dose, rather than the life, literally, in their hands is your medications. wrong drug altogether! never smart. Plan ahead. Dispensing errors are bound • Get into the habit of dropping DID YOU KNOW? A nighttime to happen; pharmacists are off prescriptions and coming cup of Passion Flower tea could human and some drugstores back the next day for them. It’s help you relax and get to sleep. time their pharmacists to see considerate because it allows the how efficiently they work. pharmacist time to fill “waiting” Suzy Cohen is a pharmacist Despite the demands for high prescriptions for people in pain and author of “The 24-Hour quality customer service, and the who’ve just left the hospital. Pharmacist”. The information pressure, most pharmacists have • Call your refills in at least a above is not intended to treat, a really good track record con- day ahead. cure or diagnose your condition. sidering that they fill thousands • Have your doctor write your of prescriptions each week. prescription(s) legibly. Do you © 2007 Dear Pharmacist, Inc. Even though pharmacists think it matters if you get Plavix Distributed by Tribune Media do occasionally make a medica- or Paxil? Lisinopril or Lipitor? Services, Inc. ®

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ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT www.caribbeantoday.com From ‘Foreign’ to ‘Bashment’, Jamaican filmmakers make big screen splash e was born in Jamaica, Q: “Foreign”, it was the same theme. Why did you choose ing out with his friends and chas- ple business, neither is it attended high school production crew? that? Isn’t that like doing a ing girls and doing different cheap. How much did it take Hthere and graduated A: Same production team. It story that has already been things. to make “Foreign” and how from college in the United was myself and Mykal as co- done? That’s one story line. much did it take to make States with a degree in business. writers and we produced that A: The theme that There are actually five story- “Bashment? He worked as an accountant one ourselves (and acted in it). I has been done a lot, those lines running concurrently A: Well “Foreign” was a work and wrote poetry. Now Steve also directed it. That one came movies are done around throughout the movie and straight from the heart. We “Tehut-Nine” McAlpin is a out in 2005. Unfortunately it got (dancehall) artistes. It doesn’t they all work cohesively to tell didn’t really have the budget New York-based independent bootlegged. Besides that, it had really showcase them doing any the tale that brings us to the for that. It cost some money, filmmaker, with two movies a great run. People really real acting. They’re just playing sub-title of the movie “The but I can’t go into what the themselves. And usually it has Fork In the Road”. It’s a cau- actual figure is because the to do with some kind of com- tionary tale really, dealing process of making “Foreign” petition in the end. And to me with friendship, dealing with was an on and off thing. We that has already been done. greed, even with tragedy and were just happy that we finally That’s not what “Bashment” then dealing with redemption. had it finished. incorporates in the story that But ultimately it boils down to In all honesty, it wasn’t we’re telling. We’re dealing with you making a choice. We all something that we were doing a young guy (lead actor Fax) have to make choices and for commercial purposes. We who is pretty much very intelli- sometimes the choices we were doing it initially just for gent, a college graduate. He is a make determine how our lives the core group of friends that bit ambivalent about what he turn out. we had and when we sat down wants to do moving forward and and looked at the edited ver- so he spends a lot of time hang- Q: Moviemaking is not a sim- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 16)

The Fork In The Road

depicting the lives of Caribbean enjoyed it. Still enjoy it. To this people in America to his credit. day everywhere you go they say In this edited interview with ‘I saw it’. People react to it Caribbean Today’s Managing favorably. But after that we Editor Gordon Williams, con- wanted to do another movie. ducted at a recent screening of his latest flick “Bashment” in Q: So the success of “Foreign” Atlanta, Georgia, the 32-year- made you want to do old McAlpin talks about the “Bashment”? film and his own involvement A: When we decided to do in the business. “Bashment” we wanted to do something that could not only QUESTION: What’s your role showcase our talents, the skill with the film “Bashment”? sets that we have, but to show ANSWER: In one lump sum, people the range, that we had from all angles I am the prin- range. When we did “Foreign” cipal writer, screenwriter. I everybody was ‘when are you have a co-writer, Mr. Mykal gonna do part two or part Fax, and I also have a produc- three?’ You know what I tion credit. I’m one of the mean? executive producers, alongside That’s kinda even the way Mykal Fox, again, and Brian it is with “Bashment” now. Blake. I shot the movie and Those who’ve seen it want to also directed it and played the know when part two is coming editor as well. (He also acts as out. And so, being a writer, “Job” and Fax and Blake also being that my first strength in have roles.) this is the writing side, I never like to pigeon-hole myself Q: How long has this movie into doing just one thing and been in the making? always staying in one groove. A: Since 2006. We had the So I wanted to do something a first draft of the script late little bit more action-oriented, 2005 and we started actual something more dramatic. So production on the movie early we set out to do the dancehall. 2006… The dancing aspect of the dancehall (Caribbean) com- Q: What’s the motivation munity was very, very promi- behind making “Bashment”? nent at the time so we said we A: First of all it is something wanted to incorporate some- that I love to do. (Filmmaking) thing in our next movie that is something that I enjoy had to do with that. doing. After the success of our first film (“Foreign”) we didn’t Q: A lot of Jamaican movies want to just stop there. are made with the dancehall

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www.caribbeantoday.com ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT Morocco music festival to help Caribbean fight HIV/AIDS DESMOND BROWN include concerts featuring Greene, who led a Caribbean Partnership (PANCAP) out the region; one percent to musical bands from Morocco, delegation to Morocco for last against HIV/AIDS. two percent in Barbados, TANGIER, Morocco – will run for 10 days in each of month’s first-ever CARI- “Consequently, CARI- Dominican Republic and Caribbean community (CARI- the three countries from the COM/Morocco Symposium COM and PANCAP (Pan Jamaica, and two to four per COM) countries are set to second week of September. on South-South Cooperation, Caribbean Programme cent in the Bahamas, Haiti receive a big boost in their There will be a three-day welcomed the initiative. Against HIV/AIDS) look for- and Trinidad and Tobago. fight against HIV/AIDS, when break between each festival. ward to collaboration in this Overall, an estimated Morocco stages a musical festi- “HIV/AIDS is a very big WELCOMED very important event,” he 27,000 people in the Caribbean val in three Caribbean coun- problem in the Caribbean as it “The Morocco Festival in said. became infected with HIV last tries later this year. is in Morocco,” Jean Paul support of HIV/AIDS is most In its 2006 epidemic year, but UNAIDS and the Officials of the North Coupal, Morocco’s special welcome as it highlights the update, the United Nations World Health Organization African country told the envoy to CARICOM told reduction of stigma and dis- Programme on HIV/AIDS (WHO) said that several coun- Caribbean Media Corporation CMC. crimination against people liv- said that there were 250,000 tries were making inroads (CMC) that what is being “HIV is our biggest living ing with HIV/AIDS,” Greene people living with HIV in the against the epidemic as a result dubbed as the “Morocco concern right now and every said. Caribbean, with nearly three of having wider access to anti- Music Festival” would be held country has to tackle it in a “This coincides with the quarters of them in Haiti and retroviral drugs. in Barbados, Jamaica and different way.” main objectives in the current the Dominican Republic. It Trinidad and Tobago. CARICOM’s Assistant Caribbean Regional Strategic said that national adult HIV ® The festival, which will Secretary General Dr. Edward Plan of the Pan Caribbean prevalence was high through- From ‘Foreign’ to ‘Bashment’, Jamaican filmmakers make big screen splash

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15) born in Jamaica, and a lot of really go in there, your crew is from Jamaica? and that’s why at sion we said ‘I think we got A: Basically. Everybody is the very end I kept something here. Let’s put it from there. There may be one “Son Son” for so out on DVD and see what or two people that’s in the long, ‘cause I want- happens’. So we did 2,000 film who were born on the ed to get people to copies of it initially and Stateside (U.S.). The large get it: ‘This is where within two weeks those portion of the cast and the you’re gonna end were gone…They flew... crew are Jamaican-born. up’. And everybody knew he was gonna Q: So you covered the cost of Q: What kind of background end up like that. making it? do you have in films? That’s the sad thing. A: Basically. We covered all A: I’m a creative person first So the mes- the money we spent and by and foremost. I love movies. I sage is not necessar- time we got to our second love the writing of a movie, I ily to glorify vio- print of the film it was already love the storytelling aspects of lence, but to show bootlegged everywhere, from the movie. So it started just the reality of it and south coast to north coast, being an avid observer, a to show that your east coast to west coast. patron of the art and then choices do have Outside the country as well. becoming a student, literally - consequences and studying, buying books, the consequences Q: What about “Bashment”, watching movies. not only affect you, how much did it cost you to but it affects the make? Q: Did you go to film school, people around you, A: “Bashment” was a differ- did you have formal training? - Photograph by Gordon Williams whether it’s your ent beast. The overall budget A: No film school, no formal Mykal Fax, left, and Steve “Tehut-Nine” McAlpin are the major forces behind the film “Bashment”. friends, your family, for “Bashment” was a little bit training. My formal training and yourself as well. over $75,000. In all honesty it comes from watching and to stay true to the characters. I film, so it’s hard to even digest was probably a lot more than learning, patterning other let the story just play itself everything that is in it in just Q: How do you approach dis- that, but because of how we people who went to school for out because at the end of the one viewing. It’s very layered. tribution as a small production manipulated and worked out the actual training. whole thing I wanted people There’s a lot of different company? What are the plans some of our contracting with to come away with the sense pieces in there. It’s talking for widespread distribution the actors and people we Q: The violence theme…it’s of who these characters were about basic issues about the and what are the obstacles worked with, we were able to prevalent throughout the and how a simple little thing, youth. “Son Son” (the film’s facing you? not spend as much on it. movie. Looking back after as giving somebody a wrong tragic figure who lives and A: Right now we’re independ- making the film, are you satis- name or getting involved with dies violently) is a young man. ent. If you start up independ- Q: You’re making a profit on fied with how that came off or the wrong person, can become He’s 17 years old and his ent you find that you have to it since its release? do you think maybe you went (dangerous)… name is really “Donovan stay independent for a while, A: Well, since its release, a bit overboard? Future”. And you kind of fig- until somebody catches on to we’re scratching the surface A: I think the violence in the Q: The (violence) carried a ure that the future of the the magic that people see in and looking for that break. movie, I was basically trying whole lot of weight…What’s youth is missing. And if they the work. We’ve gotten some good feed- to mirror some of the things the good message coming out continue down this path, I There’s a lot of obstacles, back from it, and actually that really happen - you know of this? think, that’s basically where because right now we’re rela- some great opportunities lie what I mean – especially living A: The message is about your they’re gonna end up (like tively unknown to the larger ahead. For example, we’ve in Brooklyn and being from choices. If you look at one of “Son Son”). industry. We’re appealing to a gotten theatrical release in Jamaica where violence is the last scenes in the movie, I really wanted to just Caribbean market they (big Jamaica, at all the theaters rampant. Some people might when the character called impact somebody in the audi- movie companies) don’t rec- down there. We’re shopping it feel like it’s a little bit over the “Rupert” is talking to Mykal ence because there are a lot of ognize for film…That’s a big around to different film festi- top or a little much, but it’s to (“Cymbal”) and he says that these young guys that look at challenge. We’ve reached out vals. We’re doing our own keep the realness of the char- ‘since you say you feel like “Son Son” as this hero and to the market in Jamaica and screenings at the same time. acter. your life is at a fork in the they glorify his lifestyle. I look we’ve gotten good feedback. Doing all these things we’re Whenever I do a project I road, let me ask you the same at those and say ‘look at all We’ve actually gained island accumulating exposure while like authenticity. I like if a question I asked “Son Son”’, the different badmen who wide distribution through we’re trying to recoup the character is supposed to be a and he doesn’t really ask it to have come up in Jamaica and Palace Amusement… expense of making the movie. bad boy, you have to portray him (“Cymbal”), he asks it gone. What always happen to We’ve submitted to film I can’t say that we’ve already him as a bad boy. If he’s a really to the audience: What them? They either end up in festivals…That gives us an broken even, but we are on church boy, you don’t try to choice are you gonna make? jail or dead.’ But yet you have advantage because they like the right path. portray the church boy as a So I really made this film these guys who continue pop- to promote diversity. bad boy, unless that’s the tran- to really, in a way reach out to ping up. They wanna emulate Q: Your background, you were sition they make. So I just try people. It’s a very layered that lifestyle. So I wanted to ®

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ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT www.caribbeantoday.com Garvey birthday celebration in August Ninja Man’s U.S. return to highlight ntertainment and cul- scheduled for 6 p.m. to 10 New York’s ‘Reggae Carifest 2007’ tural awareness will p.m. Aug. 17 at the Broward ontroversial Jamaican the business have to come to Emark a celebration of Community College south dancehall deejay Ninja an end,” Ninja Man was quot- the 120th anniversary of the campus, 7200 Pines Boulevard CMan is scheduled to ed in a recent press release birth of Jamaican National in Pembroke Pines. perform in the United States issued by the organizers. Hero Marcus Mosiah Garvey Dr. Leonard Jeffries, for the first time in some 15 “Reggae Carifest” was this month in South Florida. black studies professor at City years when he appears at launched in 1998 to showcase The “2007 Marcus Garvey College in New York, is the “Reggae Carifest 2007” this Caribbean culture. Rootz Extravaganza”, is scheduled guest speaker. month in New York. “We are once again doing The show, which also lists our part in trying to give the acts such as South African people what they want by Lucky Dube, Third World, moving mountains to bring BLOWING UP A STORM Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, together on one stage dance- Yellow Man, Movado, Pinchers hall’s finest and reggae Garvey and Collie Buddz, is slated for greats for a show,” said Team Sylvia Jordan , a veteran of Aug. 25 at Randall’s Island. Legendary’s D’Niscio Brooks. the Garvey Movement, will be It is being organized by For more information, honored by the organizers. Team Legendary under the ban- visit www.reggaecarifest.com Vocalist Empress Trejah ner “Give Peace A Chance”. Ethiopia from New York and “Know that all the war in ® Shemana Dixon, Florida International University’s “Miss ENTERTAINMENT BRIEFS Omega Psi Phi 2007”, are also • ‘Irie Jamboree’ versial decision to seek foreign listed among the highlights of Several top reggae/dancehall acts, judges was announced by Prime the program, along with audio- including Stephen Marley, Morgan Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell in May. visual presentations with Priest Heritage and Lady Saw, are in the line- Douggie and I. Jabulani Tafari, up for “Irie Jamboree 2k7” set for • St. Lucians sweep Caribbean and the Roots & Culture Sept. 2 at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, soca contest Dancers. The master of cere- New York. St. Lucian singers made a clean monies is radio personality For more information, visit sweep of the “Caribbean Soca Kevin “Ital-K” Smith. www.iriejamboree.com or call 1- Monarch” competition last month. Admission to the event, 888-irie-nyc. Jonathan St. Rose, under the presented by the Rootz sobriquet, “Ninja Dan”, pulled away • Debate over foreign judges for from a field of seven contenders, Foundation, Broward County Grenada’s carnival including defending monarch “Mr. Library and the Broward The national calypso competitions in Vibes” from Trinidad and Tobago, to Community College, is free. this month’s carnival in Grenada will cop the title. For more information, be presided over by foreign judges, Trumpeter Etienne Charles thrilled the audience at the recent “Jazz at Lincoln call 954-981-1176 or the despite strong objections from some Compiled from CMC and other PUB-1169_TrinTob_CarTodayCenter” show in New York. Looking on are7/27/07 Arturo Tappin 1:10 on saxophonePM Page and 1 Nicholas library hotline, 954-201-8825. sources. Brancker on bass. On drums is Buddy Williams. calypsonians in the island. ® The unprecedented and contro- ®

Publix joins you in celebrating Trinidad & Tobago’s Independence Day—8.31.07

www.publix.com © 2007 Publix Asset Management Company

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www.caribbeantoday.com BACK TO SCHOOL ~ A special Caribbean Today advertising feature Tips for back-to-school technology shopping (ARA) – Remember when means making sure they have Ewert, executive vice president mouse can help prevent injury your biggest back-to-school all the technology they’ll need and general merchandising and improve posture by helping shopping challenge was finding to make it through the school manager of CompUSA. position the hands, wrists and your elementary student the year. But before you buy, make “Parents and educators have forearms naturally. Ewert rec- coolest pair of sneakers and sure you do your homework come to rely on technology as ommends you test-drive a trendy T-shirts? and know what kids really need an important tool to enhance model in the store before you Now they’re high school to succeed. learning for children.” buy it. or college bound and it’s a lot “Computers in school are Preparing your children in “Everyone’s hands and more complicated. now as commonplace as com- terms of technology requires wrists are unique,” he says. Today, shopping for school puters in homes,” says Paul more than just making sure “It’s important to find the one their laptop is in working order. used to back up data in the that best fits you.” Ewert and the technology event of a system crash, cor- experts at CompUSA offer the rupted files, accidental erasures • All work and no play makes BACK-TO-SCHOOL BOOST following tips to help you make or similar maladies common in for very bored students, so be smart back-to-school shopping computers used in a student sure to throw in some technolo- decisions: environment. gy that’s just for fun, like “Students should consider Slingbox, which allows students • If your teenager carries his an external hard drive of 300 to tune into their local TV laptop to school, be sure to MB or greater, up to 1 shows while away at school, and invest in locks. Locks will pre- Terabyte,” says Ewert. “The add-on TV Tuners that can turn vent unauthorized users from bigger they are, the more infor- a dorm room PC into a com- stealing or accessing the com- mation they can store.” plete entertainment center. puter. Choose cut-resistant gal- vanized steel combination locks. • Many students are also using • Finally, on a practical note, • A great alternative to carry- their cell phones or digital cam- consider how you will handle ing the entire laptop is to invest eras to store photos, videos and situations when your computer in a USB flash drive. “USB music. Additional memory and other technology are not flash drives have become huge- cards greatly expand the stor- working properly. Consider ly popular as reliable, portable age capacity of these devices. investing in a technology service pocket-sized means of saving “The most popular memory plan for your students. Often, papers, presentations and even card is the mobile Secure this can be available at a dis- music and photos in a device Digital (SD) cards for cell count when you purchase a new smaller than your thumb,” phones,” suggests Ewert. laptop or desktop computer. Ewert says. “For most stu- “These are good for saving dents’ needs, 1GB and higher hundreds of pictures, music To learn more about back to capacities are recommended, files, etc., on a student’s phone school technology, stop by your This little girl was among more than 70 children who will return to classes pre- with 2GB becoming the new or Blackberry.” local CompUSA store or go pared to battle common sicknesses after receiving immunizations during the North standard for safe storage of online to www.compusa.com to Broward Hospital District’s (NBHD) annual back-to-school health drive last month in information large enough for • Repetitive motion injuries are view a Back to School Buying South Florida. Along with school immunizations, NBHD volunteers and community most purposes.” Guide. health services coordinators provided more than 400 participants with health infor- common among people who mation, blood pressure and sickle cell screenings. Organizations from all over the spend hours a day typing, • For safeguarding important including students. An Courtesy of ARAcontent county, including the Florida Health Department, also volunteered their services. schoolwork, as well as photos, The Fort Lauderdale Police Department provided fingerprint services for school ergonomic keyboard and children and their parents. Guests were provided with live entertainment, food, videos and music, an external ® backpacks, school supplies and prizes. hard drive acts as a “safe- deposit box”. The drives can be Belize offers free textbooks BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – ment and denominational pri- The Belize government has mary schools. launched an ambitious multi- Fonseca said that while million dollar national text- wide consul- book program, warning school tation had principals and other educators been held that participation in the proj- prior to the ect was not optional. launch of “It has been reported to the initia- me that there are a few princi- tive, it had pals and teachers who have taken the suggested an intention not to authorities have their schools or students over 20 participate in the textbook Fonseca years to get program. This is unwise, the project unreasonable and unaccept- started. able. I remind everyone that “I am satisfied, therefore, this is not an optional pro- that the consultations have gram,” said Education been meaningful and ade- Minister Francis Fonseca. quate, and the evaluation He said that those who process credible and reliable. were seeking to undermine We have talked enough; it is the project were doing a dis- now time for us to act in the service to school children and best interest of the children of the nation. Belize,” he said. While acknowledging 20-YEAR WAIT there would be problems dur- The government said that ing the first year of the pro- it had spent an estimated gram, the education minister BZ$6.5 million ($3.3 million) assured citizens that the on launching the project that authorities were “fully pre- would involve providing free pared to manage this program textbooks in five core subject effectively and efficiently.” areas to all primary school children attending govern- ®

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BACK TO SCHOOL www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A special Caribbean Today advertising feature Conquer school year clutter in six easy steps (ARA) - Clutter is inevitable, clutter and getting organized child can be a challenge in mul- • Organize your entryway for Entryway benches with hid- especially during the school this back-to-school season: tiple-child families. Portable a speedy exit - Eliminate the den storage compartments year when a new batch of work spaces can be the perfect last-minute morning backpack provide a convenient place to graded papers, permission • Establish a daily backpack solution. Bean favors a folding search by setting up a spot sit while pulling on shoes and slips and loot from classroom routine - Make a habit of sort- computer desk, offered near the door for backpacks drawer space for stowing parties arrive on a daily basis. ing through your children’s through her catalog, that folds and other things that need to everything from outdoor gear “Talk to any family with backpacks every day after to a size not much larger than a go to school, such as hats and to keys and cell phones. school. Use a tiered letter standard card table chair for gloves, books, sports equip- sorter or filing system with easy storage. ment and musical instruments. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 20) designated slots for each child’s papers, and an “a.s.a.p.” space for teachers’ notes, permission slips and anything else that requires immediate attention. For papers and artwork your child can’t part with, con- sider a storage cart for her room, like the1-2-3 Storage Cart that provides six colorful numbered bins. Think “1” for books, “2” for art projects, and take it from there. Bins are deep enough to hold school-aged children and months’ worth of papers and you’ll find them overrun with art, so you and your child can clutter,” says Ginny Bean, a sort and pick favorites over mother of three boys ages 12, school breaks, rather than 17 and 18, and publisher of making those tough on-the- Ginny’s, a house wares cata- spot decisions. log. Necessity has taught Bean a thing or two about organiza- • Establish a designated home- tion over the years. Bean sug- work spot -Carving out a speci- gests the following for cutting fied homework space for every Survival guide for teens, parents (ARA) - Your teen may act schedule. “too cool for school”, but the • Make sure your teen is sleep- truth is that school is a major ing enough. The American source of stress for teens. Sleep Disorder Association According to a survey by says the average teen needs 9.5 kidshealth.org of over 600 hours per day. Weekend sleep teens ages 14 to 17, school- schedules shouldn’t deviate by work (32 percent), social more than one or two hours to issues (30 percent) and maintain consistency. appearance (25 percent) topped the list of back-to- school worries most cited by teens. Though these issues are complex, there are steps you can take to reduce your child’s (and your own) stress level and enjoy a new start. The start of the school year marks a time of new subjects, new teachers, and often, differ- ent classmates. Transitioning into a new school can be espe- cially difficult. Manage the transition by attacking stressors head on. • Eat breakfast. According First day jitters to the American Dietetic • Have a back-to-school bar- Association, eating breakfast becue so your teen can re-con- can upstart your teen’s metab- nect with classmates to take olism, which helps with weight some of the first impression control, mood and school per- pressures off the dreaded formance. “first day”. • Have your kids and their Academics friends walk through their • Set goals relative to your schedules on campus so get- child’s strengths and weak- ting lost isn’t an issue. nesses. Unrealistic expecta- tions will increase anxiety and Create a sensible pace may lead to giving up. • Balance extracurricular • Have your teen take a learn- activities and even “down ing style test to find the most time” with your teen’s study (CONTINUED ON PAGE 20)

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20 CARIBBEAN TODAY August 2007

BACK TO SCHOOL ~ A special Caribbean Today advertising feature High tech checklist for A-plus students Time-saving, back-to-school (ARA) - Preparing for school tectors and identification tags Assistant (PDA) - Today’s cell is more than just buying pencils Most MP3 players need phones help students commu- tips for the savvy mothers and notebooks with today’s more protection from their nicate and collaborate on all tech-savvy students. owners than would-be thieves. fronts: via phone, email, text (ARA) - When the end of veggies for fajitas to add a lit- Here’s a back-to-school A good soft or hard case and message, IM and, in some summer finally rolls around it tle sizzle to the week. technology checklist for high- screen protector can keep your cases, video. can be difficult to see past all Just prepare all the meals school and college-bound stu- MP3 player safe from falls, Although using the devices the beach-bumming, lemon- for the week ahead and store dents to help make their school spills and everyday use. A in the classroom may be con- ade-sipping and sun-soaking the items in separate contain- year more productive. From number of companies make troversial, parents and friends you’ve enjoyed for the past ers to keep the food fresh. “must-have” staples to “nice- identification tags for gadgets certainly appreciate being able few months. But before you to-have” gadgets, students are to communicate with students know it, the kids are going taking some pretty pricey gear at a moments’ notice. Plus, if back to school and, once with them to school and they you can store files or receive again, good old mom is busy need to know how to use it as emails on your phone, you arranging car-pooling sched- well as how to protect it. catch some extra study time no ules, packing lunches and matter where you are. helping with math homework. Get It: laptop computer - The Protect it: passwords, con- Even though after-school laptop computer now plays tact information and insurance activities and weekend games multiple roles in a student’s life Many cell phones and portable can weigh heavily on a time- – typewriter, library, stereo, tel- computing devices can be pass- starved mom, hope is not lost. evision, telephone, etc. Dell, word-protected to keep nefari- With a few adjustments to the HP and Gateway all have lap- like these so good Samaritans ous users out of your address daily routine, moms every- When you’re ready to eat, tops for under $1,000. can return items to their right- book. If you have sensitive data, where can finally enjoy some simply reheat and serve for a Protect it: Laptop tracking ful owners. iPods can also be personal information or pictures time for themselves during the quick and easy food fix. and recovery software, engraved with your personal on your phone that you don’t back-to-school season, while Treat school lunches the Computrace LoJack for Laptops information. want anyone else to get their still maintaining a happy same way. Pack your child’s A laptop is stolen every 53 hands on, using the devices household. lunches in advance or teach seconds in the United States. Get It: portable gaming system built-in security can offer some them to make healthy choices Computrace LoJack for These devices are compact and protection. You might also want Cook smart, eat smart - Save so they can pack their own - Laptops from Absolute durable and offer plenty of to label the phone, externally or time during the week by saving you hours of time dur- Software can help track down playtime for kids – and kids at through a locked screen saver, preparing meals ahead of ing the work week. and locate lost or stolen heart. The latest gaming sys- with your personal information time. Buy universal ingredi- machines, and with the help of tems offer much more than so it can be returned to you. ents like chicken, vegetables, Let someone else do the dirty local authorities, return it to child’s play. Applications for Finally, if you invested in a $500 sauce and cheese to create a work - House cleaning servic- you. Don’t forget the anti-virus, the devices include music, iPhone or Blackberry, pay the variety of dishes without hav- es are gaining in popularity anti-spyware, encryption and video, photos, Internet and few extra dollars for the service ing to over think it. and it’s easy to see why. With firewall software as well as a wireless connectivity. plan to replace it if lost or Scatter the ingredients on the majority of mom’s time good cable lock as a visual Protect it: Common sense stolen. store-bought dough to make consumed by work and par- theft deterrent. and a locked cabinet kid-friendly pizza or mix enting, it’s hard to find time to Portable gaming systems Courtesy of ARAcontent everything together and serve tackle cleaning duties around Get It: MP3 Player - Today’s are a lot of fun, but losing one over pasta for a more rustic MP3 players offer much more is no joke. Use common sense ® meal. You can even grill the (CONTINUED ON PAGE 21) than just music. Some have if using the device in public. recording functions that allow (You wouldn’t play with three you to digitally record a lecture $100 bills on the subway, would Survival guide for teens, parents and play it back for studying. you?) And, when back in the Didn’t have time to read the dorm room, keep it in an (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19) (www.makeovers.ivillage.com have proven acne-fighting is one example). ingredients like benzoyl per- book? Get it in digital format inconspicuous place when it’s effective way for him or her to • Reserve some budget for the oxide or salicylic acid for effi- and listen to it before your test. not in use. It’s a good idea to study: unanticipated hot trends seen cacy and botanicals like aloe These nifty gadgets are also have a locking cabinet to keep http://homeworktips.about.co roaming the halls once school and chamomile for gentleness portable storage devices. They your gaming devices and other m/od/homeworkhelp/a/lstyle- starts. and soothing. Make sure any- can hold and transfer files valuables locked up when you qz.htm thing your teens put on their when you are not carrying your are out of the room. • Host study groups at your Skin: the catch-22 skin - including moisturizers, laptop. Get It: cell phone, camera home (with food) to foster • Stress causes acne and acne make-up and sunscreen - is Protect it: Cases, screen pro- phone or Personal Digital friendships from casual class causes stress. “Acne can cause either anti-acne or non-come- acquaintances and improve problems that go beyond skin- dogenic (won’t clog pores). academics. deep, especially when it • Visit a dermatologist if over- affects your social life and the-counter remedies have not Conquer school year clutter in six easy steps FEELING CONFIDENT even schoolwork,” says Dr. alleviated symptoms after a Since appearance figures Denise Metry of Baylor few months. (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19) that combines a pause-and- prominently in teens’ stress College of Medicine. serve coffee maker, toaster list, addressing clothes, hair • Choose clothes for the next Stress in turn can stimu- SUPPORT COUNTS oven, and even a grill for fry- and skin - relatively “quick day - Encourage your child to late oil production and cause While you can’t eliminate ing eggs and sausage, into one and easy” fixes - goes a long spend a few minutes each more breakouts. So, it’s back-to-school stress, you can handy appliance. The product way. night selecting his or her is also a great space and time- important to treat acne at its minimize it. Recognize that school clothes for the follow- source and break the cycle your child’s sources of stress saver for the busy home or Back-to-school fashion ing day. Make it a rule that with a product like Nature’s are very real to him or her, college apartment. • Choose a few key pieces the child must stick with these Cure 2-Part Acne Treatment even if they seem foreign, if from fashion magazines with choices - no dawdling in the (see www.naturescure.com). not trivial, to you. Regardless, • Set your alarm clock earlier your teen. Make those the pri- morning because he or she The treatment includes a ben- listen to and support his or - Do yourself a favor by rising ority pieces and build around doesn’t want to wear what was zoyl peroxide cream that her concerns and interests. half an hour before everyone them. chosen last night. clears blemishes on the out- Even if your “too cool” else. Things tend to go much • Accomplish the “retro-cool” side and all-natural tablets teen doesn’t show it, knowing more smoothly in the morning look on a budget at second- • Plan breakfast the night that work from the inside to they have your support makes if you’re showered and hand or consignment stores. before - Set the kitchen table fight acne with no side effects. all the difference. dressed before waking the • If your teen is craving a in advance and make cereal • Proper skin care makes a kids. trendy haircut, find a styling and bread available to those difference. Look for daily care Courtesy of ARAcontent school to get a high-end cut who are ready first. systems or kits that will give Courtesy of ARAcontent for less. Use an online virtual Streamline breakfast prepara- your teen a routine to stick ® makeover tool to select a style tion with helpful products like ® with. Choose products which the 3-in-1 Breakfast Center first, without the commitment

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August 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 21

BACK TO SCHOOL www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A special Caribbean Today advertising feature Paying for college should be a family partnership U.S. Congress passes Caribbean Educational STEVE ROSEN for textbooks. Not only will and theirs will begin. your children have a financial Exchange Bill erhaps your teenage stake in their education, but Stewart Koesten, a finan- daughter has her heart there may be intangible divi- cial planner and president of WASHINGTON, CMC - The Pset on attending a selec- dends when it comes to keeping KHC Wealth Management United States’ House of tive liberal-arts college that the focus on schoolwork rather Services in Overland Park, Representatives has passed a carries a sticker price north of than parties, especially fresh- Kansas, has tackled these types bill that seeks to fortify edu- $40,000. man year. It might be one of of issues with clients and with cational exchanges between Or maybe your son’s the best lessons they ever learn. his own children. He recom- the Caribbean and the United dream school is near an ocean mends talking about financial States. and a two-day drive from your DISCUSS expectations for college “at the The bill, front door - with tuition, room Before scouting out cam- earliest point the child can known as the and board nearly twice the cost puses, attending meet-and- understand.” Your child may Shirley A. of State U. greet sessions with admissions appreciate the heads-up about Chisholm If students help pay for their own edu- Is your teen expecting you representatives and filling out money sooner rather than later. U.S.- the common applications, have cation it will give them the incentive to “It would be unfair to lead to foot a big part of the tab? remain focused. Caribbean Probably, would be my guess. a frank discussion with your your children down a path of Educational But what about your high student about the family col- have the $40,000 a year to expecting to attend the school Exchange lege budget. You don’t have to of their choice, only to tell schooler? Will he or she be cover the full load of the pri- Act of 2007, rule out colleges based on their vate college but you can pay them later you can’t afford to Lee helping to pay for college too? was passed sticker price just yet, since most half, make sure your teen send them there,” Koesten said. And have you even broached on July 31 by of them will offer financial dis- knows what is available, how Some parents, he said, the subject? a margin of 371 to 55 votes. Contrary to some teens’ counts and other incentives to much may have to come out of struggle with the push-pull of attract students. But it may his or her funds, and how how much they are willing to Introduced by California way of thinking, this is not a Democratic Representative radical expectation. It makes help to talk about paying for much financial aid will be pay for college and what their Barbara Lee, the bill would perfect sense for children to college as a family partnership. needed to cover the gap. children’s obligations should create “a system” for contribute to their educational Spell out what you would Put on the table whether be. There also might be feel- funding - even if it’s covering be willing to pay for college. If, there are strings attached to ings of guilt for not having Caribbean community their spending money or paying for example, you really don’t your money, such as needing to saved enough to make that (CARICOM) students to maintain a “B” average or dream school a reality. study in the U.S. It would also attending summer school to Does that mean emptying implement a plan for, among Time-saving, back-to-school graduate in three years instead your retirement accounts? other things, the enhancement of four. “That would be a foolish of teacher training and pri- tips for the savvy mothers move,” Koesten said. “There mary and secondary educa- SOLUTION are fallbacks for educational tion development in CARI- (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20) ing for missing car keys, locat- ing misplaced homework Another possible solution: funding and plenty of time for COM-member states. the house. assignments and picking out Require your newly minted your children to repay their “This bill will establish a To ease the workload, resi- your newest fashion creation. college freshman to cover a loans, but nobody will be there mutually beneficial educational dential cleaning services like Pick one day to overhaul your higher percentage of the costs to take care of your retire- exchange between the United Molly Maid offer numerous organizational skills and the the first two years of school, ment.” States and the Caribbean,” Lee household maintenance servic- rest is history. when students are more at risk His point: Get over the said after its passage. es, including dusting, vacuum- To make sure you always of washing out. If they make it, guilt and remember that there “And, it is an important ing, scrubbing and virtually any have your keys on-hand, pur- then agree to take over the are a lot of top-flight, afford- step towards strengthening other household chore you can chase a key rack for the front load. Or, if graduate school is a able schools to choose from. our relationship with our imagine. Their home service door. Or for a more fashion- strong possibility down the neighbors,” she added. professionals will even provide able approach, place a decora- road, discuss whether your © 2007 Tribune Media the cleaning products and tive, antique bowl to stash financial obligation will end Services, Inc. ® equipment so you don’t have them on a foyer desk. after the undergraduate degree to. And if you aren’t a busy ® Stackable, color-coded trays mom yourself, but know one can be a handy place to store who is, many cleaning services your son or daughter’s complet- offer gift certificates allowing ed homework assignments. As BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAY moms everywhere an opportu- they’re heading out the door, nity to enjoy some “me” time. they can simply grab it and go. By designing a cleaning And as for your closet, try regiment specially formatted arranging your items of cloth- to fit the lifestyles of each ing by formality and color. homeowner, Molly Maid Keep casual items separate ensures convenience and satis- from work-related ones and faction with all home cleaning brightly colored items sepa- needs. No more picking the rate from neutrals. And when kids up from school and you’ve got some free time in returning to a messy home. the evening, try picking out It’s time to prop your feet up, your clothes for the next busi- relax and let someone else do ness morning. the dirty work. By cutting corners and following time-saving tips like Find time - Let’s face it, most these, moms everywhere can people get a later start to the enjoy a little more time for day than they’d like to. We themselves without sacrificing can’t figure out whether the their routine or their health. snooze button is a blessing or Back-to-school time can be a a curse. But either way, we chaotic transition for summer- end up making it out the door loving kids and parents, but frazzled and unorganized with simple changes can mean the each minute passing too difference between a happy quickly. home and a hectic one. - Photograph by Miami-Dade County/Ryan Holloway To slow down the hands Miami-Dade County Commissioner Dorrin D. Rolle hands backpacks with school supplies to children during his annual “Book Bag of time, organization is key. - Courtesy of ARAcontent Giveaway Health Fair and Optimist Club Extravaganza” recently. More than 2,000 people attended the event that also provided free You can save the extra time immunizations and physical examinations for school-aged children, as well as fun activities like a climbing wall, giant waterslide you’d normally spend search- ® and bounce house.

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22 CARIBBEAN TODAY August 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com POLITICS Caribbean nationals contesting BVI sets Aug. 20 seat in Florida State Legislature for general elections MIAMI – Two Caribbean politically-prominent Caribbean becomes more diverse, you nationals are among candidates nationals will face-off. have elected officials running TORTOLA, British Virgin four-year term, with nine of contesting a seat in the Florida “It is a sign that the against elected officials from Islands, CMC – General elec- them in single-seat constituen- State Legislature. Caribbean community is matur- the same ethnicity,” she said. tions will be held in this cies and four at large. Hazelle Rogers, 54, the first ing to be able to have two peo- “Years ago, British Overseas territory on The one ex-officio mem- Caribbean American to be elect- ple that are qualified and have you would not Aug. 20. ber and speaker are chosen ed to office in Broward Country been active in the community see that.” Governor David Pearey from outside the Council. in Florida and a longtime for a long time,” said Lauderhill But Fitzroy has announced that Nomination The British Virgin Islands Lauderdale Lakes city commis- City Commissioner Dale Salesman, the Day will be on Aug. 9. enjoys one of the more pros- sioner, last month announced her Holness, who’s also a Jamaican. Jamaican-born The ruling National perous economies of the candidacy for According to U.S. Census Miramar city Democratic Party (NDC), led Caribbean the District 94 figures, in recent years, commissioner, by Chief Minister Dr. Orlando region, with a seat. Broward’s Caribbean American said the Smith, will face a challenge per capita Her deci- population has increased signifi- upcoming race from the main Opposition GDP of sion pits her cantly. Hammond would be diffi- against her From 2000 to 2005, Broward’s cult for Virgin Islands Party (VIP) of around compatriot black population, which comprises Caribbean Americans. former Chief Minister Ralph $38,500. Its Eric 34 percent Caribbean nationals, “Caribbean American O’Neal. main revenue Hammond, 63, grew by 22 percent. elected officials have been a The two parties have been earners are of Lauderhill, a Though Brooklyn, New somewhat tight-knit group holding various public meet- tourism and Rogers ings in anticipation of the the financial longtime York, has more Caribbean when it comes to supporting Smith activist who nationals than any other county each other,” he said. “Both peo- polls, which are also expected services with has lost two previous bids for the in the U.S., Broward County ple have been very committed to be contested by a number substantial same seat. has more Jamaicans – 100,000 – to their communities. How do of independent candidates. funds being generated by the Both Jamaicans will chal- than any other county nation- you take sides?” Voters will elect a new 15- registration of offshore com- lenge two African Americans in wide, the census said. Hammond, who owns an member Legislative Council, panies. an Aug. 2008 Democratic pri- engineering firm, said that, after 13 of whom are elected for a mary against Robert L. Lynch, CONFIDENT immigration, the key issue for ® 54, and Rubin Young, 46. The current state seat is Caribbean nationals would be Since Rogers’s 1996 victory, being vacated by Matt Meadows, access to better-paying jobs. Caribbean Americans have won and Rogers, a realtor and mort- “Right now, most Caribbean Dominica installs commission seats in cities across gage broker, is confident of vic- people who come here, especial- Broward County, including tory, claiming that she has been ly women, they work three and Miramar, Lauderhill, Lauderdale successful in several previous four jobs,” he said. “They leave new Opposition leader Lakes and Southwest Ranches. elections. the kids home alone.” ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC - has been considering this for She lost her first race in Attorney Earl Williams was many months and that they RARE FACE-OFF 1995 by a mere two votes, but - CMC But political observers in won the next year and has held last month sworn into office as have decided Florida say the state race repre- her seat since then. ® Opposition leader promising that at the sents a rare instance in which two “As Broward County supporters that his next goal opening of a would be to reclaim the gov- new session of ernment on behalf of his Parliament St. Vincent debates replacing queen as state head United Workers Party they are going KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, liamentary vote, a referendum already supported the move to (UWP). to make this CMC – Legislators last month will be held. replace the British monarch, “My next accomplishment change,” he began debating the final report who is represented by the gov- is to be prime minister of said. of the Constitutional Review ernor general, as the head of Dominica,” Williams told James, a for- reporters after being sworn in mer Committee (CRC) that is pro- state. James posing the appointment of a Meanwhile, Deputy Prime by President Windward non executive head of state in Minister Sir Louis Straker said Nicholas Island and a new constitution for St. that he has invited Queen Liverpool. Dominica cricket manager, Vincent and the Grenadines. Elizabeth to pay an official visit The became the first leader of the Prime Minister Dr. Ralph to the island during an audience UWP had United Workers Party in 1988. Gonsalves said there has been with her in May last year. endorsed He led the party to victory in overwhelming support for the Trinidad and Tobago, Williams last 1995 and became prime minis- island replacing the British Guyana and Dominica are the month to ter. But in 2000 his party was monarch as the head of state. only Caribbean Community replace beaten by the Dominica The CRC, which was con- (CARICOM) English-speak- Edison James Labour Party, led by Rosie vened in 2003 presented its ing independent countries that as Douglas, who has since died. report to Parliament last year Queen Elizabeth II have replaced the British Opposition Williams James failed again to and the report is the framework monarch with their own head leader. regain power in 2005 when for debates after which a new Both Prime Minister of state. “All of the Members of Prime Minister Roosevelt constitution will be drafted. Gonsalves and Opposition Parliament have unanimously Skerrit defeated him in the Officials say after the par- Leader Amhim Eustace have ® given our support to the May 5 general elections. Soon leader of the party Mr. Earl after, his Deputy Leader Williams,” Brown said in an Julius Timothy openly chal- T&T’s P.M.to face Integrity Commission interview on state radio then. lenged his leadership. James “That is something that decided not to contest the PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, what they might reveal, noting Manning’s comment on has been in the making for party leadership last year but CMC – Prime Minister Patrick that “every top sits on its own the Integrity Commission issue quite a while. Since the last instead opted for party presi- Manning is being investigated bottom” in came when he said he agreed budget Mr. James had hinted dent even while remaining by the Integrity Commission matters of with the decision to have pub- that he would not be the one Opposition leader. However, for the fifth time, it has integrity. lic hearings by the tribunal emerged. Manning had investigating Chief Justice replying to the next budget.” it was Williams who became The probe has to do with called the Satnarine Sharma. He said jus- UWP leader unopposed as the Maha Sabha license issue, briefing to tice would be better served by CHANGE Timothy by then had broken in which the Hindu group inform the this process. The P.M. then said Meantime historian and ranks with the party. took the government to the media about he had been investigated by former senator in the House Privy Council for failing to the visit of the Integrity Commission four of Assembly Lennox Compiled from CMC sources. Honychurch said he was not grant it a license, saying it was Nigeria’s Manning times before and was cleared the victim of discrimination. President on all occasions and that he surprised by James’s resigna- ® Manning told a press Yoweri would be cleared again. tion. briefing last month that he did Museveni and other pressing “It is clear that the UWP not fear public hearings and domestic issues. ®

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REGION www.caribbeantoday.com U.K. Privy Council makes region’s Guyana steps up fight govts more accountable to citizens against smuggling LONDON, Britain, CMC - to the commonwealth since it is GEORGETOWN, Guyana, have an impact on the smug- The British-based Privy a landmark decision in which CMC – The Guyana govern- gling of drugs, goods, fuel and Council has handed down a governments, through their ment has established an anti- illicit weapons as members will landmark ruling which will ministers and prime ministers crime task force to combat fuel share information and intelli- make Caribbean governments would be liable for anything and manufactured food smug- gence gathering in these areas.” more accountable to citizens that they say in Parliament or gling and illicit trafficking in He also explained that for unconstitutional actions for anything that is done in narcotics and illegal weapons. once the agencies become fully and force parliamentarians to Parliament,” he said. Home Affairs Minister operational, “then meetings of be more careful about what Clement Rohee said that the two task forces will be con- they say under the cloak of PRIVILEGE CHECK retired Police Commissioner vened separately…in order to parliamentary privilege. Maharaj said the ruling Floyd McDonald would head discuss the terms of reference The court gave the deci- challenged traditional thoughts Maharaj the inter-agency secretariat (TOR) of the respective task sion following a constitutional on parliamentary privilege. Maharaj, however, cau- managing merchandise and force and to make them opera- motion brought against St. “The constitution of St. tioned that this should not be fuel smuggling while security tional together.” Vincent and the Grenadines Vincent and the Grenadines interpreted as a review of laws specialist Errol Vanoonten Rohee said that in order to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph gave the power of the courts to which govern parliamentary would head a similar body ensure success in the initiative, Gonsalves, after controversial look at what is said in the privilege, since parliamentari- overlooking the battle against security would be boosted along statements were made about a Parliament,” he explained. ans are still personally guarded illegal drugs and weapons. the country’s sprawling and landfill involving the country’s “The Privy Council held by those laws. Rohee said that the gov- mostly unprotected borders. former Police Commissioner that it would be a denial of the “It does not alter the law ernment “is enthusiastic about Rudolph Toussaint. access to the right of Mr. that members of Parliament the task forces which should ® Toussaint was represented Toussaint to go to the court, would not be personally liable by former Trinidad and Tobago for the Speaker to prevent the for anything they say or do in Attorney General Ramesh court from looking at very rele- Parliament, but the govern- Lawrence Maharaj, who said vant evidence and the Privy ment would be liable,” he said. the decision of the Privy Council ruled that the provi- Up to press time there was Council would have far-reach- sion of the Privileges Act must no response from Gonsalves to ing consequences for be construed with such modifi- the Privy Council ruling. Caribbean governments. cations as are necessary to “The decision is of great bring them into conformity ® significance to the region and with the constitution.” CARICOM wants more help for Haiti BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, a suspension that followed the Speaking at a joint news CMC – Caribbean community undemocratic removal of for- conference with visiting (CARICOM) countries have mer President Jean Bertrand- Canadian Prime Minister called on the international com- Aristide from office in 2004. Stephen Harper, Arthur said munity to do more than just that the “region now stands give financial resources to SUPPORT ready to work with the interna- Haiti. “CARICOM believes that tional community and especial- CARICOM Chairman at this stage, its greatest support ly Canada to make sure that Owen Arthur said that the for Haiti is to help it put in place the basic requirements of a regional states were willing to basic institutions of a civil socie- civil society and modern econ- work with the international ty to help it to put in place a omy are established. community to establish institu- judiciary that works, a civil serv- “It is not just enough to tions for good governance and ice that works, customs and all throw a lot of financial resources economic development in the these other things that are basic at Haiti and congratulate your- former French colony. to building a society,” said self as to how bit the pledges Haiti was re-admitted to Arthur, who is also the are,” he said. “The most impor- CARICOM in Feb. 2007 after Barbados prime minister. tant thing is developing in Haiti the capacity to absorb the finan- cial pledges.” REGION BRIEFS ® • Anguilla cracks down on illegal • Judge from Dominica knighted immigrants Dominican Brian Alleyne, acting chief The Anguilla government says it will justice of the sub-regional Organization crack down on persons granted work of Eastern Caribbean States, was permits and involving themselves in awarded a knighthood last month. “illegal practices”. The jurist was made a Commander The Ministry of Labor said it had of the Most Distinguished Order of the been receiving information that some Nation at an investiture ceremony at holders of work permits were perform- Government House in Antigua. ing jobs for which the required legal documents had not been obtained. • Guyana to discuss civil society issues • The Bahamas marks 34th A three-day conference aimed at Independence identifying “an agenda for growth and The Bahamas celebrated 34 years of livelihoods” will be held in Guyana in political Independence from Britain October. last month with Prime Minister Prime The Government Information Minister Hubert Ingraham saying the Agency (GINA) said the Oct. 15-17 country had achieved much to make conference comes ahead of the all Bahamians proud. Commonwealth Finance Ministers “We demonstrated a stern com- Meeting (CFMM) to be held in Guyana. mitment to our democracy over the past 34 years and to the advance- Compiled from CMC and other ment of our people both economically sources. and socially,” he said in an address on Independence Day, July 10. ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com TOURISM/ TRAVEL Marley’s legendary ‘yard’ flavor rubs off on Bahamas resort ELEANOR M. WILSON decided to turn their natural ingredients, many Marley CDs and DVDs are house and an adjoin- grown on premises. Now sold. Eye catchers are outfits hen you look around ing property into a completely relaxed, it’s and accessories from the vin- the new Marley resort hotel, sched- time to move down the tage Catch a Fire clothing line WResort & Spa on uled to open on arcaded walkway over- designed by daughter Cedella Cable Beach in Nassau, you’ll Aug. 20. looking the shoreline and Marley. have to pinch yourself to I was told that into a Natural Mystic Spa The resort’s carefully honed remember that you’re in The the intention was not treatment room. Using MRS Concierge Service is the Bahamas and not Jamaica. to present it as a nature’s bounty of heal- pride of daughter Stephanie, Bold reds, greens and monument to The ing herbs, fruits, spices who oversees resort operations. golds mingle with earthtones Legend himself, but and essential oils, the “Our team of dedicated both indoors and out, reggae this pronunciation is masseuse blends ancient servers handles mail and mes- music plays in the background, contradicted at every traditions and health sages, recommendations and and the aroma of favorite turn. Each of the 16 secrets from Africa, Asia reservations, travel, shopping Jamaican foods wafts from the rooms and suites is “We’ll share the same room”, Marley sang in the tune “Is This Love”, and the Caribbean to and electronic communica- and a view of this bed makes that an appetizing thought. kitchen. named after one of stimulate the senses. A tions,” she explained. “Team The original house in the Bob’s songs. There’s calming tropical rain members are selected and signature drinks and natural complex was purchased many “Kinky Reggae”, “Lively shower is followed by an aro- trained based on self confi- fruit blends, several with years ago by Bob and Rita Up Yourself” and “Easy matic steam experience. Or try dence, adaptable discipline, names reflecting Marley’s Marley as a family getaway to Skankin’”, to name a few. The the hot stone massage, using a flexibility and persistence. roots. An indoor/outdoor set- secure a little privacy. Of honeymoon suite is called delicious blend of cinnamon, There is no request that we ting blends into the restaurant course, Chris Blackwell’s “One Love”. Although size sweet orange, vanilla and won’t try to fulfill to the best courtyard, surrounded by recording studio was just down and décor vary, you can’t miss patchouli oils to melt away of our ability.” waterfalls and tropical plants. the road, which may have had the Jamaican flavor. tension. An invigorating She said that the concierge Themed entertainment something to do with the Caribbean Mocha Rum Wrap team members are also social takes place five nights a week, choice of location. FUN FLAVOR follows. A couples room is advisors, business expediters showcasing the culture and cui- Unfortunately, Bob Marley At “Simmer Down” available for these and other and personal confidantes. sine of The Bahamas, Africa, died before he could enjoy the restaurant’s elegant indoor and deliciously scented treatments. This resort will certainly Jamaica and Trinidad. Caribbean renovated ocean side retreat. casual courtyard tables, the attract the curious, residents and jazz is featured on Sundays. Through the ensuing menu includes many of the MEMORABILIA visitors alike, to all things Marley Guests in search of pam- years, the Marley family did famous Marley couple’s Just past the lobby is a tiny in spite of the code. It is a nostal- pering step into the Uprising take residence here often. But favorite dishes, such as ital museum with all sorts of gic piece of reggae Jamaica set Tea Lounge, located in a cozy now that so many of the chil- pepper pot, jerk chicken stir- Marley memorabilia from the down - very surprisingly but corner nook paved with flag- dren are business and enter- fried with organic garden veg- great one’s illustrious career. In authentically - on a coastal cliff stones and dripping in bloom- tainment icons in their own etables, escovitched cod fish the gift shop, entered from the in The Bahamas. Irie! ing vines. They start with a right, and Rita is devoting with candied yam, and irie resort but fronting onto the manicure or pedicure while much of her time to African island green salad. The “Stir It coastal road, a collection of Eleanor M. Wilson is a freelance sipping bush tea made with philanthropies, the family Up” sports bar serves exotic Jamaican, Bahamian and writer for Caribbean Today. African souvenirs, MRS (Marley Resort & Spa) resort ® CARICOM requires travel card for nationals logo wear, art objects and Bob KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, card would have electronically- CMC - Caribbean nationals, readable information that who travel frequently within would negate fraudulent use. TOURISM BRIEFS the region, will soon have the He added that the card • Air J expands service to • CDB grants LIAT $60M loan use of a CARICOM travel would also allow a person to Barbados Cash-strapped regional air- card, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph stay in the country of destina- Air Jamaica last month line LIAT has been given a Gonsalves has disclosed. tion for six months. Prime launched its first nonstop flight Caribbean Development Bank The prime minister was Minister Gonsalves, however, between Fort Lauderdale/ (CDB) financial package that will reporting on the recent CARI- cautioned that “even while Hollywood International Airport go towards paying its debts, pur- COM Heads of Government we’re doing that, we have to (FLL), in Florida, to The Grantley chasing Caribbean Star Airlines’ Summit, which was held in take the safeguards to make Adams International Airport (BGI) assets and carrying on with its Barbados recently. However, it sure that the vagabonds and in Barbados. restructuring plans. was not immediately clear how Gonsalves the criminals don’t have the The regularly scheduled FLL- The Barbados-based bank this new card would affect the same facility.” BGI flight will operate three days approved the funds during a long-awaited CARICOM visa. Noting that the travel When quizzed on the per week, Friday, Saturday and board of directors meeting last He said the heads agreed card would take the form of a CARICOM visa, Gonsalves Sunday. Barbados-bound flights month. to introduce a CARICOM “swipe card”, the Vincentian would only say that much work will depart FLL at 9:40 a.m. and LIAT’s Chief Executive Officer travel card, which could be prime minister said a watch list needs to be done to introduce arrive BGI at 1 p.m. FLL-bound Mark Darby told the Caribbean used by traders, who travel would be developed and certain the document. flights will depart BGI at 1:50 Media Corporation (CMC) that through the region often but do people would not be issued p.m. and arrive FLL at 5:30 p.m. paying off the carrier’s significant not want to use their passports. such a card. Additionally, the ® debt and paying employee sever- • Tourism led Anguilla’s ances will be the first order of economy in 2006 business. Jamaica to build new conference center in MoBay The tourism sector was the main contributor to the economy • Climate change blamed for amaica has announced plans 215,278 tourism for the Jamaica of Anguilla last year, according to region’s hurricanes to build a new facility to square feet of Tourist Board. official figures released by the A new study has blamed accommodate meetings on rooms for “Our plan is to share the J Ministry of Economic warmer sea surfaces associated the western end of the island. meetings, true Jamaican experience, one The proposed Montego exhibitions that is filled with diversity, cul- Development, Investment, with global climate changes for Bay Convention Center, and other ture and adventure not only Commerce and Tourism. the annual increase in hurricanes planned for Rose Hall, is sched- events. with the leisure travel market, It said that the sector and tropical storms in the Atlantic. uled to open Dec. 2008. It is “The con- but also with business travel- accounted for nearly 29 percent The study is expected to be projected to cost $51.67 million. struction of ers, corporations, incentive of the Gross Domestic Product of interest to the Caribbean since (GDP) or EC$119.5 million the region is vulnerable to hurri- The convention center is a Smith the conven- groups and meeting planners. joint venture between the gov- tion center This new convention center ($44.25 million). A report on the canes on an annual basis. ernment of Jamaica and Ex- comes at an strengthens our appeal to island’s economy, released by the Im Bank of China, which will opportune time for Jamaica these market segments and we ministry, showed that total visitor Compiled from CMC and other be the majority shareholder, and will become the focal look forward to welcoming arrivals increased by 16.8 per- sources. financing $45.4 million. It will point of our meetings, conven- new and returning groups for cent in 2006 over 2005. be built on 23 acres of land tions and exhibitions product,” years to come.” ® and provide approximately said Basil Smith, director of ®

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FYI www.caribbeantoday.com No passport necessary for travel between U.S. and its territories QUESTION: I am a legal per- cards, driver’s U.S. citizens can visit the passport fee of $67, the exe- manent resident and I am licenses or State Department’s travel cution fee of $30 and the wondering if I can travel to U.S. birth cer- website www.travel.state.gov photo fee of $15. Prospective the U.S. Virgin Islands with tificates. or call the U.S. National passport seekers can bring my green card, Social Security If travel- Passport Information Center their own passport photos. number and driver’s license. I ing outside the at 1-877-4USA-PPT; Consumers seeking to renew really need to know because I U.S. or a U.S. TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793. their passports can obtain am getting married soon and territory, a You should allow yourself postage at the Caribbean Fair my fiancée and I are planning passport appli- a sufficient amount of time to to mail the completed applica- our honeymoon there. cation receipt apply and receive your pass- tion. The renewal fee is $67. or other port in advance of travel. ANSWER: According to the secure docu- Allow some 12 weeks for pro- Compiled by Felicia Persaud. U.S. State Department, the ment will be cessing of your passport appli- This column is created espe- new Western Hemisphere required. For The Western Hemisphere cation if you apply from inside cially for immigrants con- Travel Initiative will not affect example, a person may travel Travel Initiative will require the U.S. Note that there’s a cerned or unsure of issues per- travel between the United to and from the United States all travelers (including U.S. current backlog in the system, taining to the U.S. immigra- States and its territories. to the U.S. Virgin Islands with- citizens) to and from the hence the rule change to allow tion law. The answers provid- U.S. citizens traveling out a passport or other secure Americas, the Caribbean and for persons with receipts for ed are for information purpos- between the United States, document, but under current Bermuda to have a passport the next six months. es only, and does not create Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin rules, a passport application application in and the receipt Persons wishing to apply attorney-client relationship, Islands, Guam, the Northern receipt or other secure docu- on hand to enter or re-enter for a passport will need to nor is it a substitute for legal Mariana Islands and American ment would be required to re- the U.S. currently. provide evidence of citizen- advice, which can only be Samoa will continue to be able enter the U.S. Virgin Islands For readers seeking to ship through original docu- given by a competent attorney to use established forms of from the British Virgin Islands obtain a U.S. passport, you ments like a birth certificate after reviewing all the facts of identification to board flights or another country as of Dec. must be born or be a natural- or naturalization certificate, the case. and for entry, that is, green 31, 2006. ized U.S. citizen to qualify. driver’s license, a check or postal money order totaling ® FYI about $113 that includes the

LIGHTNING TIPS Lightning that originates at www.volunteer.gov for infor- Lightning is a deadly weather the top of a thunderstorm car- mation on ways to get hazard which claims many ries a positive charge. Positive involved with their communi- lives each year. Summer is the lightning is particularly dan- ty, and also contains helpful peak season for lightning. gerous because: links to www.uscis.gov, the Therefore, next time a storm • It frequently strikes away USCIS website, itself. rolls in, remember the follow- from the rain core, either Additional topics on the ing tips: ahead or behind the thunder- site include: immigration and • Use the “30-30 Rule” storm. citizenship, education and when you see lightning by • It can strike as far as five childcare, healthcare and fam- counting until you hear thun- to 10 miles from the storm, in ilies, government benefits, der. If that time is 30 seconds areas that most people do not “About the United States”, or less, seek shelter immedi- consider to be a lightning risk money and finance, employ- ately because the storm is area. ment and emergencies and close enough to be dangerous. • It has a longer duration safety. • When outside, avoid making fires more likely. being the tallest object. • It usually carries a high PASSPORT FEE HIKE • Don’t stand under or near peak electrical current, which The fees to obtain a passport an isolated tree or small group increases the lightning risk to from the Consulate General of trees. an individual. of Jamaica in Miami, Florida • Get inside a sturdy struc- According to the National have been increased. ture before the storm Weather Service in the United The increase has been approaches. States, 1,000 people are sent attributed to a recent hike in • Unplug all unnecessary to the hospital annually for postal rates in the United appliances. lightning related injuries. States Postal Service. • Don’t use the telephone These injuries can be life-long The new fee schedule will during a storm unless it’s an and debilitating. be as follows: emergency. • passport renewals $110 for • Don’t stand by open win- IMMIGRATION HELP adults and $80 for children dows, doors or patios during a The USCIS, Office of under the age of 18 years; thunderstorm. Citizenship, has launched • replacing passports is $190 • Get out of boats and away WelcometoUSA.gov, the for adults and $130 for chil- from water. inter-agency web portal that dren. • If a sturdy shelter is not presents a comprehensive The general fees include available, get inside a hard- range of resources and infor- mandatory mailing cost for all topped automobile and keep mation for use by immigrants. processed passports. the windows up. Visit the website at Processed passports will be • Don’t take a bath or show- http://www.welcometousa.gov mailed to the applicants. er during a thunderstorm. / Processing time for all • If you feel your skin tingle This website provides applications is approximately or your hairs stand on end, immigrants with practical six weeks. squat low to the ground on information on settling in the The office of the con- the balls of your feet. Place United States and other infor- sulate is located at the your hands on your knees mation about participating in Ingraham Building at 25 S.E. with your head between them. our civic culture. It also serves Second Avenue, Suite 609, Make yourself the smallest as the central web portal to downtown Miami. target possible and minimize locate all federal government Call the office at 305-374- your contact with the ground. resources available to immi- 8431 or visit the website at Do not lay flat on the ground. grants and the organizations www.jamaicacgmiami.org for • If someone is struck by that serve them. more information. lightning, call 911 immediately. The site contains links to Also be aware of positive help new immigrants find ® or “out-of-the blue” lightning. English classes, links to

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www.caribbeantoday.com SPORT Grenada’s Joseph spices up T&T rises, Jamaica falls U.S. Major League Soccer in world soccer rankings GORDON WILLIAMS game came naturally for the Flatbush, Brooklyn. His love PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, in the world in 1998 when they boys from the River Road for soccer blossomed there, CMC – Trinidad and Tobago’s qualified for the FIFA World The image of Caribbean soc- area of the capital. and except for the odd pick- Soca Warriors reclaimed the Cup finals, this is one of the cer received a significant “That’s where all the ‘ballers up basketball game and a bit number one ranking in the lowest positions they have held boost last month when come from,” Joseph said with of cricket, his sporting life Caribbean Football Union on FIFA’s list in many years. Grenadian-born Shalrie a chuckle. revolved around the “beauti- (CFU) last month when they The CFU has a fifth Joseph was chosen to lead ful game”. After attending attained a 65th rating on FIFA’s Caribbean team in FIFA’s Top- United States Major League DIRECTION Bryant and Stratton, a two- July list. 100 with Guyana listed at 100. Soccer’s (MLS) All-Star team But young Shalrie needed year college in upstate New After spending just one St. Vincent and the against Scottish Premier more direction. His mother York, Joseph enrolled at St. month at number one in May, Grenadines, 103rd on the world League (SPL) champions had migrated to the U.S., John’s University where, as a T&T was unseated as the top list, are sixth on the top 10 of the Celtic. senior in 2001, he earned All- Caribbean team in the June CFU log, which is completed by For the New England American honors. ratings by Jamaica. Barbados, 118th in the world, Revolution’s central midfield- Yet when the Revolution The Soca Warriors jumped Suriname (125th), and Bermuda er, widely recognized as the selected him with the 14th eight spots up FIFA’s rankings list (130th), with Antigua and best at his position in the pick in the 2002 MLS last month to retake the top CFU Barbuda (131st) in 10th position. MLS, the gravity of the trib- Superdraft, Joseph did not spot from Jamaica’s Reggae T&T, eight-time Caribbean ute – to his personal work eagerly jump into America’s Boyz, who plunged a whopping champions, is now seventh in the 25 places down FIFA’s list after a CONCACAF (Confederation of ethic and the support of team- top league. He spent time in wretched tour of Asia recently. North, Central American and mates - was hard to downplay. Europe, trying to make it with The Jamaicans slid from Caribbean Association Football) “It was definitely an clubs in Germany and Italy. number 68 in June to 93rd last ratings. Mexico, semi-finalists at honor,” Joseph told Eventually he joined the month as a result of stinging the recent Copa America, con- Caribbean Today recently. Revolution in 2003 and imme- diately staked a claim for a losses to Iran (1-8), Vietnam (0- solidated its number one spot in But the respect did not 3) and Indonesia (1-2) during CONCACAF by jumping 16 come easy. Joseph’s road to regular place. That too, was Joseph not easy. the tour, in which the Boyz places to 10th in FIFA and the professional soccer has been scored a 2-0 win over Malaysia. United States stayed second with long and, at times, frustrating. “It was difficult coming when her only child was about in as a no name player,” he The drop now places the a world rating of 14th. Yet, even at age 29, he is still Jamaicans fourth in the CFU, Meanwhile, Brazil is again hunting his dream of playing age two, and he never had a recalled. “I had to come in chance to know much about make a name for myself.” behind T&T, Cuba (90th in the the world’s top team. Argentina in Europe after encountering world) and Haiti (92nd). is ranked second, followed by his father, who died when he several disappointments at his Italy, France, Germany and the was about 11. POSITIVE Massachusetts-based club. LOWEST Netherlands, with Croatia sev- “I was in Grenada going Joseph does not view his Joseph spent his early For the Jamaicans, who enth and Portugal eighth. childhood growing up in St. nowhere fast,” he admitted. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 27) surged to an all-time best 27th George’s, Grenada, where At age 14 his mother ® he first embraced soccer. His brought Joseph to New York, uncle played for the Spice where he attended George Island’s national team and the Wingate High School in East Julian Hunte is new WICB president PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, mittee appointed earlier this CMC – New West Indies year to review its operations, Cricket Board (WICB) presi- appeared to concur. dent Julian Hunte is keen to The three-man committee address the credibility of the - led by former Jamaica Prime board as he begins his stint as Minister P.J. Patterson – was head of the regional body. appointed to undertake the Hunte, the only nomination for review exercise and to make the position of president, for- appropriate recommendations. mally took the reins on July 29 The other members were Sir at the WICB’s annual general Alister McIntyre and Dr. Ian meeting and declared that McDonald. Outgoing President building confidence in the Ken Gordon announced during board’s operations is one of his the AGM that their findings priorities as they aim to devel- Hunte should “chart a course that will op the game. move the structure of West “One of the major con- reputation as an organization Indies cricket from its largely cerns in this regard is the credi- and the success of our teams,” untouched colonial bility of the WICB. This goes he said. antecedence into the challeng- beyond our public image and ing new world of highly-com- strikes at the heart of the char- CRITICISM petitive professional cricket.” acter of the corporation,” he For decades, the WICB Hunte also listed introduc- said in his acceptance speech to has been criticized for its run- ing a professional league in the the WICB’s members and ning of the sport. Experts, the region and developing a more board of directors. media, ex-players and the gen- harmonious relationship with “It is a matter that we eral public often describe the the West Indies Players’ must address since our ability board’s administration of the Association (WIPA) as other to attract additional support, sport as ineffective – archaic priorities for his administration. especially from the private sec- and lacking vision - and a com- tor, is dependent on both our ® SPORT BRIEFS • Digicel renews Windies cricket over the next five years. Centers recently. sponsorship The Alliance will receive cash, Telecommunications giant Digicel • Boost for Florida’s cricket in-kind services and support gear in has extended its sponsorship deal The South Florida Cricket Alliance exchange for naming rights, exclu- of West Indies cricket until 2012. in the United States got a well sivity and promotional benefits. The original deal, expected to end needed injection of funds and sup- in 2010, was also renegotiated and plementary support recently when Compiled from CMC and other it will now see Digicel pouring a it signed a sponsorship agreement sources. further $20 million into the sport with County Line Chiropractic ®

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SPORT www.caribbeantoday.com Jamaica’s Johnson stays sharp Aussie looking to make Windies team BRISBANE, Queensland, Caribbean for the (Cricket) for upcoming world title fight CMC – Jamaica and, perhaps, World Cup and although I did- West Indies may get another n’t talk to anyone on the West MIAMI, Florida, CMC – Clarendon, opened up with an International Boxing Australian influence. Indies Cricket Board or any- Jamaica’s former world light the heavy artillery and Moore Federation (IBF) title fight No, it’s not another coach, thing, I did speak to (former heavyweight boxing champion was unable to respond. against British champion physio, or trainer, but Brendan West Indies Test players) Jeff Glen Johnson whipped Clinton Woods later this year, Nash, the Queensland batsman, Dujon and Courtney Walsh, American Fred Moore on a DOWN AND OUT improved his ring record to 46 who is set to leave Australia in and they felt I could make an fifth-round knockout at the Johnson unleashed an wins (31 knockouts) against 11 September and attempt to improvement to West Indies Sheraton Miami Mart Hotel in array of powerful punches and losses and two draws. Moore revive his career in the cricket,” he said. a title-fight tune-up late last late in the slipped to 30 wins (27 knock- Caribbean. month. fifth, blasting outs) against seven losses. The Quest Community FIRST CLASS HOPES Johnson, a 38-year-old vet- Moore with Johnson, the 2004 “World Newspaper has reported that The 29-year-old Nash eran, stopped Moore at two min- two powerful Fighter-of-the-Year”, and Nash, whose father Paul was an hopes to join the Kingston utes, 45 seconds of round five. shots to the Woods have fought three title Olympic and Commonwealth Cricket Club and eventually It was another perform- head, sending bouts, all in Woods’s native swimmer for Jamaica in the late force his way into the Jamaica ance by Johnson that belies him to the England and have split two 1960s, has made the decision to national team for the next his age and he is expected to canvas. decisions and fought the third try and win a West Indies spot regional first-class season. secure another crack at the Referee match to a draw. after missing out on a contract “I’ve spoken to a lot of sen- world title later this year. Frank Gentile In Johnson’s last fight with the Queensland Bulls for ior players in Queensland and Johnson Johnson toyed with Moore for quickly before Moore, he had stopped the 2007-08 Australian season. most of them felt like they did- the first four rounds of the moved in and veteran Montell Griffin in the “I was obviously very dis- n’t hit their peak until they were fight, allowing him to trade called a halt to the bout a few 11th round of their IBF title appointed to miss out on a con- 29 or 30,” he said. with him. But in the fifth seconds before the round was eliminator in Hollywood, tract, but I pretty much got told “I’ll give myself plenty of round, the native of the cen- scheduled to end. Florida. it would be hard for me to work backing to make a go of it, and tral Jamaican parish of Johnson, who is slated for my way back in again and I felt weigh it up a bit further down the ® I still have something to offer,” track, it’s all been a bit sudden.” said Nash, a solid left-handed Nash has also been batsman and useful left-arm described as a stunning fielder. ON THE FRONT FOOT medium-paced bowler. “I was over in the ® FIRM FOUNDATION

A youngster demonstrates his forward defensive shot for West Indies player Denesh Ramdin during the Digicel Cricket Coaching Clinic at the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Center in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. This summer, the telecommunications company is sponsoring clinics in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Guyana, Antigua and St. Vincent where young, aspiring cricketers participate with top West Indies cricketers, past and present. Grenada’s Joseph spices up U.S. Major League Soccer Several professional athletes from the United States visited the Caribbean recently (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26) Yet Joseph may be paying representing Grenada in to conduct sports camps for children. Here former National Basketball Association Grenadian origins as a hin- a heavy price for his rise in the international games. He has player Tim O’Connor James offers tips on the proper positioning of the legs before drance to his professional MLS. European clubs, like the watched as Haiti, Jamaica and shooting the basketball during the annual Rujohn Foundation Celebrity Sports Camp at Kool Runnings Water Park in Negril, Jamaica. James was joined at the career. He has been a multiple defending SPL champions Trinidad and Tobago have Celtic, have shown increased represented the Caribbean at camp by National Football League players Rudi Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, MLS All-Star. However, he Jr., Omar Gaither and Shaun Smith, who demonstrated their skills to 123 children understands that the country’s interest to acquire his services the World Cup finals. When over the past couple years, but Grenada begins its qualifying from Negril and the surrounding areas of western Jamaica. The foundation is a standing in the sport can limit South Florida-based non-profit organization established in 2003 by two opportunities for its players. he said the MLS has been campaign for the 2010 World Jamaicans, Andrew and Christina Bachelor, to serve the island’s youth. Grenada is not ranked in the reluctant to let him go. And Cup next year, Joseph knows top 10 by the Caribbean while he said he enjoys his at his age it may be his final Football Union and is teammates and will continue to shot at the game’s big stage. nowhere close to the top 100 do his best for the Revolution, Yet he is confident that countries rated by FIFA, the the long wait to accomplish his Grenada can get the job done. sport’s governing body. But dream of playing overseas has “It’s definitely the time Joseph believes that a chance bothered him. He expected a for us,” he said. “Jamaica set is all he needs to pave the way move before the current MLS the bar high. T&T raised that for others. season started. It did not come. bar. I think we can be that “I look at it as a positive,” “I’m more frustrated, not team (in 2010).” the 6’ 3”, 180-pound player really bitter,” he said. “It can said. “I represent a small be frustrating coming to Gordon Williams is Caribbean island. It’s all about making work.” Today’s managing editor. them respect you. I think I Club differences aside, have done that – earning it.” Joseph is looking forward to ®

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28 CARIBBEAN TODAY August 2007

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