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PRESORTED FEBRUARY 2006 STANDARD ® U.S. POSTAGE PAID MIAMI, FL PERMIT NO. 7315

Tel: (305) 238-2868 1-800-605-7516 [email protected] We cover your world Vol. 17 No. 3 [email protected]

Glenmore Hinds, assistant commissioner of police in Jamaica, who oversees Operation Kingfish, a sweep- ing measure established to disrupt organized crime on the island, visited Florida recently to talk about just how tough his job is, page 2.

Not since 1988, when Evander Holyfield did it, had a boxer been acclaimed undisputed cruiserweight champion of the world. But last month Caribbean-born O’Neil Bell rose to the occasion at Madison Square Garden and crowned himself king in the ring, page 7. ~ Coretta Scott King died last month, but

Buju, Beenie, her contribution to Bounty. For the struggle for civil years the reg- gae/dancehall rights in America had music charts a lasting effect on have been dominated people from the by virtually the same names. Now Bobby Caribbean as well, Clarke, a radio station exec in page 15. New York, is launching a con- test to find fresh new talent to challenge the old guard, page 17. INSIDE News ...... 2 Valentine’s Feature ...... 11 Black History Month Feature . . .15 Health ...... 21 Feature ...... 7 Food ...... 12 Arts/Entertainment ...... 17 Sport ...... 22 Viewpoint ...... 9 Tourism/Travel ...... 13 Business ...... 19 Politics/Region ...... 23

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2 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2006

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Operation Kingfish aims to net organized crime in Jamaica amaica rounded out 2005 Kingfish, a sweeping measure the dubious distinction of rate. What we’re saying is that with more than 1,600 mur- established to disrupt organ- 1,600 murders. You and your when you interrogate the Jders. Last month members ized crime on the island, par- colleagues have implied that numbers, you (need to) know of the Jamaica Constabulary ticipated in that forum and number is not accurate. What what are the drivers, what are Force made a stop in Caribbean Today’s Deputy number are you comfortable the motives. A good percent- South Florida as a part of Managing Editor Damian P. with? age tends to come out of gang the Jamaican Diaspora Gregory spoke to him. The fol- and gang confrontations. Foundation Southern United lowing is an edited version of Glenmore Hinds: I am not Persons who are aligned to States’ efforts to discuss issues that interview: disputing the number we gangs being killed for reasons of crime and violence on the have. I’m merely clarifying the best known to gang members, island nation of more than 2.5 Caribbean Today: One of the numbers and to indicate even women who are aligned million people. Assistant things that you discussed where the challenges (are) to gang members they are Commissioner Glenmore tonight was the number (of from. For example, 1,600 (or) killing. If you were to remove Hinds, who oversees Operation murders in Jamaica in 2005) whatever the number is accu- the gang-on-gang confronta- tions, then you would have Hinds very little murders in Jamaica. - Photograph by Damian P. Gregory to speculate and I operate on C.T.: You said that if we were the basis of evidence he’s to take away all that Jamaica going to play, if any. would be the safest place in the world. Could you clarify C.T.: One of the criticisms of that statement? Operation Kingfish is that it has gone after certain ‘king G.H.: What we are saying is fish’ and not others. That it is if you look at the statistics as not an equal netting. How it relates to other offenses, would you respond to that like robberies, larcenies, and criticism? canal abuses; these are com- parable to almost any other G.H.: We are very disappoint- country in terms of the num- ed that that would be a view bers that we have. Murderers held by persons. But the truth are not. And it is because we is the mandate is to look at really have a violence prob- the entire major organized lem, and we are not really criminal networks. And whilst dealing with conflict as best we continue our efforts there we might… are going to be some targets that provide better opportuni- C.T.: Your operation, ties at a given period of time Operation Kingfish, has gar- than others. We cannot sit nered a certain amount of back and say because we are praise. However, there was a balancing the scales, don’t curious item that I read pursue this target because you recently that “Bulbie” (an are not in a position to pursue alleged major figure in organ- this one. In other words, ized crime in Jamaica who was whichever target presents the shot and killed by the police) best opportunity, at any given had a journal in which he point in time, we continue to detailed all of the people he (go after), up against others. worked with. My question is, if such a journal exists, why is C.T.: Operation Kingfish is that not public record? relatively new. At what point will you say to the diaspora G.H.: Because the journal is here as well as the society in currently a part of the on- Jamaica that it has been a going investigation. His success? empire is being investigated to see whether or not we are G.H.: Certainly the mandate is able to build some cases in to dismantle the major organ- this regard. So it would be ized criminal networks. There inappropriate to make that a are about 12 of these. We are public record at this stage. confident that we would have totally dismantled one. We’ve C.T.: To the issue now of (offi- disrupted others. cer Reneto) Adams and his So to the extent that we role now in the Police Force, would have been able to dis- what do you foresee that as mantle all of them, then we being? would have said that we are completely successful. G.H.: I can’t properly com- However, there are other ment on that situation. That strategies, there is a murder is a matter presently for the reduction strategy that has commissioner of police been unfolded, and elements and the Police Services of it is what Kingfish does. Commission. That is to total investigators fully focused on these, using C.T.: Do you foresee him the legal supports investigative being a part of the Force once techniques in terms of the more? operation to arrest persons

G.H.: You would be asking me (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)

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February 2006 CARIBBEAN TODAY 3

NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com Seaplane crash spoils holiday celebrations in The Bahamas

DAMIAN P. GREGORY Rolle, 26, lost five mem- they can do or say to bring How different this scene crew members on board bers of her family in the them back,” Rolle said. was from just a few days were killed, including 12 he reality of loss is just Dec. 19 tragedy. Her aunt, Sherman and Rolle are before. Filled with holiday Bahamians, many of whom beginning to settle in. A Jacqueline Stewart, 39, “who two of the plaintiffs in a law- excitement, their relatives had were related to each other. Tmother who will never (she says) was like my step suit filed last month seeking come to Miami from Bimini celebrate her birthday or mom,” was one of those rela- $50 million in damages for GONE INSTANTLY spend lunchtime with her two wrongful death against So many of their friends young sons. A father strug- Chalk’s Ocean Airways. and family members were gling with the finality of it all. “I feel that they just put gone in an “instant,” one fam- “My loss could never be those people out there to ily member told Caribbean replaced,” Kendrick Sherman, burn,” she said. Today in a soft voice on Dec. who lost his young daughter 22, her eyes welling up with Bethany and wife Sophia in STING tears. the tragic pre-Christmas crash The last two months have “Now I will have to go of a seaplane filled with been filled with the sting of about trying to explain why it Caribbean nationals heading sudden death. As family and happened to my children,” to the tiny island of Bimini in friends of the victims sat in said the woman who would The Bahamas. the lobby of the Cadillac only identify herself as a rela- The toddler died just one Hotel on Miami Beach in tive. day before her birthday. Florida, days after the crash, As she tried to wrap her Sherman must now raise his Red Cross Disaster Relief mind around the dizzying two young sons - ages nine Bishop Lazar and the rest of Bimini are workers tried to comfort Mitchell: “Bimini is a pretty stunned swirl of events that had hap- and 12 - alone. Sophia taught still mourning victims of the seaplane them. But in between the community.” pened just days before, one at the school her children still crash. “This is very, very close,” he says. polite conversation, sadness, thing was for sure - Christmas attend. disbelief and tears trickled 2005 and New Year 2006 were “Do you know how hard out. Some took comfort in hoping to shop and return to going to be unlike any other. it was to explain (to them) singing gospel hymns like family and friends in time for It would be a season of sad- what happened?” Sherman tives. “Farther Along” and “It’s Christmas. Those plans never ness and funerals. said, his voice filled with emo- So many memories come Alright Now”, and listening materialized. Instead the sea- “Many times death tion and disbelief. “This was rushing back in waves. Passing to Bible verses in between plane carrying them, Chalk’s does not give us the warning not an act of God.” Aunt Jackie’s house on the bursts of emotion, during an Ocean Airways Flight 101, that we look for,” Virginia Also devastated by the way to work, speaking to her impromptu memorial service lost its right wing shortly after Lightbourne, who lost her same tragedy is Denise Rolle. by cellphone throughout the in a conference room filled takeoff and plunged into cousins on Flight 101, told She is learning to face the day, the excitement her with family and friends. Some Government Cut - a shipping Caribbean Today. reality that she will never see cousin, Neisha, felt about preferred to stay outside the channel off the coast of Miami Lightbourne, who has her beloved aunt, sister or starting school in late January. room, away from the service, Beach - while beachgoers, lived in Boynton Beach, young cousins, again. Neisha, just 18, had plans to to have their tears soothed by divers and area residents Florida for more than 21 “It real hard,” she told study business. the gentle reassurances of oth- looked on in disbelief. Caribbean Today. “There is nothing that ers. All 20 passengers and (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)

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4 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2006

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Brooklyn to rename road in honor of Bob Marley bid by a group of Marley Avenue”, expected to be Avenue, noted for its high go a long way in the planned community activists, received unanimous an agenda item concentration of Jamaicans. economic revitalization of the Ato rename a section of support. at a meeting of Amir Abdullah Muhammed area by the New York City a road in Brooklyn, New York The motion and city lawmakers Abdul-Akbar, community Department of Transportation. in honor of reggae icon Bob the endorsement by this month. activist and founder/executive The 61st anniversary of Marley, has been given the the members will The renam- director of the Caribbean Bob Marley’s birth will be green light by the Brooklyn move to the next ing, if approved, American Program for observed on Feb. 6. Community Board. phase of the hearing will cover the Empowerment (CAPE), The motion to rename a process at the New section between whose organization initiated R three-mile stretch of the thor- York City Council 98 Street and the motion to rename the oughfare “The Hon. Bob Chambers and is Beckford avenue, said the move could Bob Marley Seaplane crash spoils holiday celebrations in The Bahamas

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3) joy. The crash ripped into the ing to the company. its flights, but the precise seaplane. center of that connection. “This is a company that cause of the crash had not yet They point fingers of years, said that, like so many “My cousin Sophia, I has been serving Bimini safely been determined up to press blame toward the airline. other people from the walked her mother down the for decades. They’ve grown time. “Who else do you think Caribbean, her cousins fre- aisle, I coordinated her wed- up around Chalk’s, both the “We’ve reached no could have been responsible?” quently came to Florida to ding and everything,” crew and the people in the conclusions,” National Sherman asked. shop. The holiday season Thompson told Caribbean community know each other, Transportation Safety Board Since the end of would make this particular Today. “So this is very, very like family on a first name (NTSB) Spokesman Paul December, the Federal trip all that more special. close.” basis and to have this happen Schlamm told Caribbean Aviation Administration “They were excited to go is just unbelievable,” Mitchell Today. (FAA) ordered inspections back, they were thinking I can HEAVY LOSS said. Schlamm said the NTSB and groundings of seaplanes wrap this gift for my child. All The effects of the crash Numerous attempts by is reviewing the records of the similar to Flight 101 in light of that is on the back burner hit Bimini hard. Residents Caribbean Today to speak to 58-year-old airline, and that “ of the crash. now,” she said. spent much of the holiday sea- a Chalk’s spokesperson fol- a good portion of the plane,” “The hardest thing for me “It is alright being here (in son mourning the loss of those lowing the crash were unsuc- had been recovered and is that Bimini made Chalk’s,” Miami), but when you go who perished aboard the cessful. was being examined in Rolle said. “They should have home to that island, when you flight. Bimini - one of the many Washington, D.C. Findings been more responsible.” go home to that house and “Bimini is a pretty islands in The Bahamian from that investigation could there’s that vacant chair where stunned community,” Fred chain - has an estimated popu- take up to a year. this one sat or that one sat Mitchell, Bahamian minister lation of about 1,600 and is John Ruiz, the Miami- Damian P. Gregory is that is when it becomes so of foreign affairs, told about 50 miles off the coast of based attorney representing Caribbean Today’s deputy fresh.” Caribbean Today. Miami. Preliminary investiga- Kendrick, Rolle and families managing editor. Bishop Lazar Thompson, Chalk’s Ocean Airways tions showed a stress fracture of other victims, says that he too, lost a relative on Chalk’s has been traveling to The on the plane’s right wing. will be working with investiga- R flight. She and the family had Bahamas since the 1920s, with Shortly after the tragedy, the tors as they try to determine been joined to him by so much a good safety record, accord- airline voluntarily grounded what happened to the doomed Operation Kingfish aims to net organized crime in Jamaica

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) is required. So it is not neces- would ask other countries to active, but there is a level of where we will go. We are cer- sarily only a Jamaican opera- do some work up on some disruption that makes it more tainly not concerned, not for a involved in the commission of tion, it is necessary that inter- investigations…and pool them difficult and displaces them. moment wary, of one’s politi- murder…But for now that is national support is coming together, investigations for a cal connections. The only the major organized network from other countries. collaborative effort. C.T.: When you talk about thing that drives us is where that we’re concentrating on. organized crime you talk our intelligence tells us we can Once we have dismantled them C.T.: And cooperation, does C.T.: By dismantling one of about it as if it is a relatively find evidence and we will pur- then I would want to say we’ve that exist? the major organized crime new phenomenon. Is it a new sue leads. been completely successful. organizations and disrupting phenomenon (in Jamaica)? G.H.: Certainly. We will share several others, could you C.T.: One of the things that C.T.: How much of the net- with other law enforcement make that concrete for my G.H.: It isn’t. That is why we we spoke about today was the works are based in the diaspo- agencies, share and we will readers, what effects, if any have set in place (for) organ- fact that everybody associated ra, outside of Jamaica? benefit from them and they has that had on crime overall? ized criminal network. It has with those involved in crime will benefit from us. existed for a while. The levels are being killed. We have G.H.: Almost all of these have G.H.: Certainly. You would of organization might change women and children being persons who are a part of C.T.: What is being done to have to look at the areas from period to period, and killed. Is that different from those organizations in the ensure that there is a certain where these organizations from decade to decade. But what has happened in the past? diaspora, in Florida, New amount of synergy between operated. The one we disman- these are those that we consid- York, and some in Toronto. In what happens in Jamaica and tled operated in the Papine, er to be major organized ones. G.H.: Yes. There is some dif- other words some of these with law enforcement in August Town, Gordon Town ference. But you have to put it organized networks do (have) Canada and the United States areas. We arrested a number C.T.: Operation Kingfish faces into context…The case of persons who are running drug and elsewhere? of the persons…The net result a public perception battle if women, the majority of those bases on their behalf. is that crime in this area went you will. If a politician or women were gang members G.H.: Certainly. When down to almost nothing, as we elected official is nabbed in themselves. Yes, women are C.T.: What are you doing, with Operation Kingfish was speak. This was a group that connection with your investi- involved in gangs. They were the help of other law enforce- launched, in the U.K., there was involved in robberies, kid- gations, how would you assure spouses of gang members and ment agencies, to combat that? was a companion program. napping, extortion, and these the public that you will get they also were relatives of We tried our approach based crimes are down in those whomever is involved in gang members. And the phe- G.H.: Operation Kingfish is a those efforts and tried them, areas to almost nothing. organized crime? nomenon that if you can’t multi-national, multi-agency and they launched them very catch the person, then the task force. That means, apart much at the same time that C.T.: And you are hoping to G.H.: From the very early next available target that is from the law enforcement we launched Kingfish. So do the same with the other 11? inception we made the state- associated with the person is agencies in Jamaica, we are there is indeed relevance (as) ment that we are unconcerned fair game. It doesn’t matter. It working with our internation- it relates to our activities and G.H.: At least five of these we about the political affiliation is all in the name of making a al counterparts. Certainly ours the activities in other coun- have severely disrupted their or any other affiliation with statement that if you don’t pay in the U.S.A., the U.K. and tries. And secondly, there activities. Albeit that some of these networks. Wherever the up this is what happens. Canada, and wherever this (are) situations where we the members still exist and are evidence leads us, that is kind of support and coalition R

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February 2006 CARIBBEAN TODAY 5

NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com Trinidadian-born labor leader suffers Immigration lawyers protest crushing blow from N.Y. transit workers deportation of Haitians

NEW YORK, CMC – their wages toward health “The net effect was that NELSON A. KING in New York, Boston, Members of New York City insurance premiums, in return members came to doubt that Philadelphia and Miami, said Transit Workers’ Union have for the authority dropping its the key benefits of the deal NEW YORK, CMC – they were acting because given their Trinidadian-born insistence on less generous were forthcoming,” he said, Dozens of immigration homeland security officials leader a crushing blow by pensions for new workers. declining to indicate whether lawyers around the United had not given Haitians tempo- rejecting the contract he will order a recount. States have joined forces in rary protective status, which settlement he reached with NO VOTE Peter Kalilow, the author- protesting the Department of temporarily prevents the the Metropolitan The unpopularity of that ity’s president, said he, too Homeland Security’s decision deportation of immigrants Transportation Authority decision became starkly clear was disappointed with the to continue deporting illegal who cannot return to their (MTA) in the at last month’s vote. Of 22,461 vote “after hundreds of hours immigrants to Haiti. native countries because of aftermath of votes cast, 11,227 workers of negotiations. The lawyers have filed armed conflict, natural disas- December’s voted to ratify the contract, “The MTA is amenable motions in dozens of cases, ters or other extraordinary paralyzing and 11,234 voted to reject it, a to meeting with the union in asking immigration judges to conditions. subway and margin of just seven votes or the coming days,” he said. stop the deportations because bus strike. 0.03 percent. “However, in order to ensure their clients’ lives may be GROWING WORSE The rejec- Toussaint, president of a timely resolution of this threatened. The immigration lawyers tion, which Local 100 of the Transport matter for the sake of all New The U.S. State said the situation in Haiti has seemed to Workers Union, which repre- Yorkers, we will also begin to Department has warned been far worse than in El catch city offi- sents 33,700 subway and bus take the necessary steps to Toussaint Americans against traveling Salvador, Honduras and cials off guard workers at the authority, said pursue binding arbitration.” to Haiti, citing the lack of an Nicaragua since a violent and derails a painfully he was very disappointed Toussaint had urged effective police force and uprising and intense pressure wrought agreement, repre- “to go back to the drawing members to ratify the deal at the presence of armed gangs from the United States forced sents a stunning defeat for board.” He accused New York a series of town hall-style engaged in kidnappings and President Jean-Bertrand union President Roger Governor George E. Pataki, meetings. The union also violent crime. Aristide from power in Feb. Toussaint. union dissidents and the placed automated phone calls The lawyers, who held It also opens a potential authority’s negotiators of damp- news conferences last month (CONTINUED ON PAGE 6) Pandora’s Box of complica- ening support for the vote. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 6) tions in any future negotia- tions. Both sides, however, said that another strike, while a possibility, was unlikely. At the center of the rejec- tion seemed to be a last- minute concession by the union in December that its members pay 1.5 percent of Jamaican court orders Bahamian extradited to U.S.

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC - A Bahamian man was ordered extradited to the United States when he appeared in a local court last month. Darren Ferguson, an alleged Bahamian drug dealer wanted by U.S. prosecutors on drug trafficking charges, waived his right to challenge his extradition and agreed to be extradited to the U.S. to stand trial. Ferguson, a trained pilot from Nassau who has been liv- ing in Jamaica for some time, is wanted in the state of Washington on drug charges. He was captured in April last year by police during a special operation along the Mandela Highway in Jamaica. U.S. prosecutors alleged that Ferguson is a member of a powerful drug network that has shipped large quantities of cocaine to the U.S. over an unspecified period. They alleged that he was placed in charge of the Jamaican leg of the international drug net- work. He was indicted by a U.S. grand jury in Feb. 2003. R

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6 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2006

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS UWI Foundation honors Caribbean nationals honored in New York NEW YORK, CMC - the Universities of Warwick Barbados Prime Minister international public figures Baroness Valerie Amos, the and Birmingham before pursu- Owen Arthur (2004). Guyanese-born leader of ing doctoral research at the The institute also NEW YORK, CMC – The and culture. The foundation the British House of Lords, University of East Anglia. announced that Dr. Carol American Foundation of also lauded former UWI was scheduled to deliver Jacobs, chairman of the Global the University of the West Chancellor Sir Shridath the keynote address at the Fund to Combat HIV/AIDS, Indies (UWI) is honoring Ramphal and former vice chan- Caribbean-Guyana Institute Tuberculosis and Malaria, has an American television host, cellors of the university for Democracy (CGID) award won the International Crystal banking executive and a Sir Alister McIntyre and ceremony in Brooklyn, New Public Health Award. Brazilian minister. Professor Rex Nettleford for York this month. Trailblazing former New The awards were sched- their work. Baroness Amos is lord York City Councilwoman Una uled to be conferred at the In addition, a host of president of the Council in the Clarke, the first Caribbean- Foundation’s ninth annual prominent public and business United Kingdom. She previ- born elected official in New “The Legacy Continues” figures have been cited as ously served as secretary of York City, has received the awards ball in Manhattan this UWI “builders”, and some state for international develop- Crystal Lifetime Achievement month. were scheduled to receive ment, and is the first black Award. female minister in a British Councilman Dr. Kendall Al Roker, a host of NBC the vice chancellor’s award, Cabinet. Stewart, the Vincentian-born television’s “Today” show; including Laurine Fenton, Baroness Amos Baroness Amos has chair of the City Council William Rhodes, chairman the Montserrat-born, former served as parliamentary under- Between 1989 and 1994, she Immigration Committee, and chief executive officer of Organization of Eastern secretary for foreign and served as chief executive of received the Crystal Leadership New York’s Citibank; and Caribbean States (OECS) Commonwealth affairs from the Equal Opportunities Award; and Dr. Marcia V. Gilberto Gil, Brazil’s minister high commissioner to Canada. June 2001, in which her portfolio Commission of the United Keizs, the Jamaican-born of culture are the honorees. The American Foundation, include responsibility for Africa, Kingdom. president of New York’s Gil has been singled out which has raised millions of the Commonwealth, the York College, received the to receive the inaugural dollars for UWI, is the universi- Caribbean, Britain’s overseas terri- WINNERS Distinguished Educator of University of the West Indies ty’s primary vehicle in its capital tories, consular affairs and person- The CGID bestowed its the Year Award. Bob Marley Award for his out- campaign in the U.S. nel issues. She was government signature award, the presti- CGID is a non-profit standing achievements in arts whip in the House of Lords from gious “Democracy Prize”, on organization and think-tank, R 1998 to 2001 and spokesperson on the 2005 winner St. Vincent whose mission is to promote, social security, international devel- and the Grenadines’ Prime among other things, education- opment and women’s issues. Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, al, cultural and economic Cable television, vehicle repair, for-hire Baroness Amos was born who joins two previous development of the Caribbean in Guyana, and moved to Caribbean recipients: Trinidad diaspora. Great Britain with her family and Tobago Prime Minister transportation top complaints in 2005 in 1963. She took degrees at Patrick Manning (2003) and R able television, motor completed in accordance with vehicle repairs, for-hire automotive industry repair Trinidadian-born labor leader suffers Ctransportation, home standards. services and stores which sell electronic goods topped the BAD RIDE crushing blow from N.Y. transit workers list of areas about which Of 568 complaints received from passengers (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5) authority “tried to back out of news to all New Yorkers.” consumers complained to the deal by sabotaging the He urged the union and Florida’s Miami-Dade about the private transporta- and ran radio advertisements. tion industry (mainly taxicabs, vote” and accused union dissi- the authority to “work togeth- County Consumer Services Toussaint, a former sub- dents of distorting the value er on an amicable resolution Department (CSD) last year. limousines, jitneys and private way track worker, who has led school buses) lost and found of the settlement with “down- to their contract dispute.” According to a press the union since 2000, had right lies.” New York City release issued by the CSD, items, and issues of driver faced mounting dissent. In the behavior, such as discourtesy, Mayor Michael Bloomberg R the majority of complaints news conference, he said the called the vote “disappointing received about cable televi- over-charging and refusal to sion concerned outages and transport passenger on short service/reception problems trips, were most frequent. relating to hurricanes Katrina In the area of home serv- Immigration lawyers protest deportation of Haitians and Wilma. ices, many of the complaints The CSD enforces county had to do with service uation in Haiti ameliorates. ence when they return to laws that require cable televi- providers taking deposits, but (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) Maggy Duteau, an immigra- Haiti. sion companies to provide failing to perform the work, 2004. Those Central American tion lawyer in New York, “They’re horrified,” she credit to consumers for out- faulty installations, or failure countries have been given said she cannot fathom why said. “Many are going into ages. Under these laws the to honor warranties. temporary protective status by Salvadorans, Nicaraguans and hiding.” cable companies must take In electronic product sales the U.S. Hondurans are granted pro- The State Department, timely corrective actions in many of the complaints were The United Nations said tected status while Haitians which ordered the departure resolving service problems. about refurbished goods being it has documented widespread are not. of non-emergency personnel An examination of CSD’s passed off as new items, other cases of unlawful arrests and “How bad does it have to and family members of complaint information for forms of product misrepresen- has received credible reports get before something is done?” embassy officials in Haiti last 2005 showed that among the tation, accusations of over- of police involvement in exe- she asked. May, lifted the order several consumers who called the pricing and disputes about cutions and banditry. The “I don’t think it makes months later. But embassy department’s Mediation return policies. Many of these U.N. also said that 10 mem- any sense for the United officials have been told that Center about motor vehicle complaints involved visitors. bers of its peacekeeping force States to send people back to dependents under 21 are still repair problems, many had Other major complaint have been killed in the unre- a country where such devas- not permitted to travel or complained about faulty areas were credit related lenting violence. tating human rights violations remain in Haiti. repairs. Miami-Dade’s Motor scams, towing, automotive The State Department are occurring,” said Paromita “It’s a tough decision,” Vehicle Repair Ordinance sales, Internet fraud and furni- says over two-dozen Shah, associate director of the said Bill Strassberger, a requires that motor vehicle ture sales. Americans were kidnapped in National Immigration Project Department of Homeland repair mechanics pass a test The CSD is the county Haiti last year. Haitian offi- in Boston. Security spokesman. “The to demonstrate competence agency charged with educat- cials said kidnappings peaked “Those Haitian deportees country itself is in a desperate in their area of expertise and ing, informing and protecting over the Christmas season to face grave risks to their lives, situation. But, at this point, then obtain a license from consumers in Miami-Dade over 12 a day. The American and that’s not acceptable.” the United States government CSD. With regards to shops, through enforcing consumer Embassy in Haiti has prohibit- feels the situation can be cor- the ordinance prescribes that protection laws and business ed personnel from leaving ‘HORRIFIED’ rected by providing more aid these businesses, whether they regulations, licensing certain their homes at nights. Candace Jean, an immi- as opposed to providing tem- do mechanical repair, body- businesses and investigating The lawyers want immi- gration lawyer in Miami, said porary protective status.” work or painting, be licensed consumer complaints. gration judges to close the her clients were terrified by the CSD. The ordinance deportation cases until the sit- about what they would experi- also requires that repairs be R R

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February 2006 CARIBBEAN TODAY 7

FEATURE www.caribbeantoday.com Jamaica’s Bell wins undisputed world boxing crown ~ Stunning knockout secures WBA, WBC and IBF cruiserweight titles GORDON WILLIAMS (WBC) titles to add to his sonal cell phone later that own International Boxing evening. wo days after his most Federation (IBF) belt, and “It’s the publicity,” he compelling show as a became a revelation to many admitted, still only a straight Tprofessional boxer, of boxing’s keenest observers right from the Manhattan stu- Jamaica’s O’Neil Bell strolled in the process. dios of ESPN, the major along Manhattan’s famous “I think that he has a American sports network. Broadway, past the theaters great future,” noted American Bell does need to be bet- and stores on a sunny January boxing historian Bert Sugar ter known. At age 31, he is on afternoon, sifting easily said immediately after the the top of his profession, but among the big city’s bustling fight. at the shorter end of a normal commuters. None since the great boxing career. He fights in a None of the passers-by, Evander Holyfield in 1988 had division which has often been some of whom would later unified the 200-pound divi- overshadowed by glamorous stop to watch a tango dance sion, and Bell remains the heavyweights, welterweights scene being filmed on the only man born in the English- and, more recently, even sidewalk a few yards away, speaking Caribbean currently light heavyweights, led by turned a head towards the holding a world boxing title. American Antonio Tarver and newly crowned undisputed Bell’s fellow Jamaican Glen world cruiserweight boxing RECOGNITION Johnson. king. As Bell paused to greet If only he could get the Last month, as he moved a familiar face near the inter- whole world to come along for towards the ring in step with section at 42nd Street he jok- the get-to-know-Bell ride, it Bob Marley’s “Soul Rebel”, ingly took a jab at his lack of would all be much sweeter to Bell was more accurately a recognition in the Big Apple. the fighter who now lives in rebel with a cause – to get the “I’m being a tourist now,” Atlanta, Georgia. Despite his boxing world to sit up and said the fighter, carrying a bag current record of 26 victories, take note of him. The majori- in one hand as he looked up, 24 by knockout, with a loss ty of the large Garden crowd scanning the looming skyline and a draw, the Montego Bay- did not embrace Bell. Their around him, “just doing some born fighter is still largely warmth was spared for shopping.” unknown. So when told, as he Mormeck. Yet as the fight On Jan. 7, at Madison stood on the New York side- heated up and Mormeck was _ Photograph by Gordon Williams walk, that a radio station in eventually beaten into submis- Square Garden, just blocks Bell is now number one in the world. along Broadway, at 33rd Jamaica wanted an interview, sion two minutes and 50 sec- Street, Bell had gone “shop- bargains too. In one night he took the Frenchman’s World Bell shrugged and granted onds inside the 10th round, ping” for more prized goods. knocked out Jean-Marc Boxing Association (WBA) permission for the station to Mormeck in the 10th round, and World Boxing Council He cashed in on some great call him directly on his per- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8)

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8 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2006

www.caribbeantoday.com FEATURE CARICOM launches heralded single market PETER RICHARDS 2004, have “not signified their Member nations will have their goods and services on the tion rather than 14 to allow the intention to participate in the access to bilateral free-trade world market. Treaty to enter into force,” said PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CSME process.” But last agreements that CARICOM “To put together a single Arthur, who appeared confi- The University of the West month, Haiti’s interim Prime has already made with market and economy is a his- dent that OECS countries Indies (UWI), regarded as a Minister Gerard Latortue visit- Colombia, Cuba, Costa Rica, toric thing,” said Barbados would honor their obligations. major symbol of regional unity, ed Port of Spain for talks with the Dominican Republic, and Prime Minister Owen Arthur, Arthur had been mandated was the venue for the launch of Manning and later told Venezuela. who has lead responsibility for by CARICOM leaders to visit a the much-heralded Caribbean reporters he CARICOM Secretary the CSME number of OECS states “to dis- community (CARICOM) sin- was confident General Edwin Carrington within the cuss issues and measures which gle market that was quietly that at the has said that the people of region, last relate to implementation of the implemented at the start of the July summit, the region were ready to avail month. special and differential treat- new year. Port au Prince themselves of the opportunities “Over the ment provisions under the The signing took place at would be wel- available under the single course of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas the Mona campus of the UWI comed back market. next few and which also related to their in Jamaica on Jan. 30 in an into the fold “People of the community weeks, I think ability to meet the December of CARI- have taken us at our word. It is a very clear, 2005 deadline for the establish- elaborate ceremony carried Manning live across the region and the COM. our duty to ensure all the rele- Carrington definitive ment of the single market.” West Indian diaspora. “As a vant procedures are in place to position will Trinidad and Tobago’s student of Caribbean, as a stu- guarantee its efficient func- be made in relation to the -CMC Prime Minister Patrick dent of development, I believe tion,” he said entire process.” Manning, who has assumed the Haiti cannot stay and remain in an address R chairmanship of the 15-mem- isolated from the rest of the to the opening TREATY HUMP ber regional grouping, said that Caribbean,” said Latortue, who of the Council Arthur acknowledged that the single market component noted that despite its status of for Trade and getting the OECS on board was of the CARICOM Single being the poorest nation in the Economic not the only issue that needed to Market and Economy (CSME) world, Haiti has a 20 percent Development be addressed with the CSME. Street Address: had come into force from Jan. population with spending pow- (COTED) Another relates to the actual 9020 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33157 ers comparable to any of the meeting in Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6010 1, involving six nations namely, Miami, FL 33116-6010. Barbados, Belize, Guyana, CARICOM states. Latortue Guyana last that sets out the legal context in month. which the CSME is created. Even Telephone: (305) 238-2868 Jamaica, Suriname and his (305) 253-6029 • Fax: (305) 252-7843 own country. OPEN SEASON Caribbean officials have with the full support of the OECS, 1-800-605-7516 The CSME is designed to Under the trade accord, remained optimistic that the Arthur explained there was need E-mail: [email protected] allow goods, services and the governments have agreed other nations - mainly those in for an amendment to the treaty to Send ads to: [email protected] skilled workers to move more to lift tariffs among participat- the smaller Organization of allow CSME-ready countries to Vol. 17, Number 3 • FEB. 2006 easily throughout the region. ing members, and all citizens Eastern Caribbean States proceed to ratification. can open businesses, provide (OECS) – would join the ini- Article 234 currently pre- Manning said The PETER A WEBLEY Bahamas and Haiti, the latter services and move capital tiative that regional govern- scribes that the treaty will enter Publisher not invited to CARICOM throughout the single market ments have said is a suitable into force when all CARICOM deliberations following the without restrictions. The gov- response to the changing global countries ratify the agreement. GORDON WILLIAMS controversial departure of ernments will also replace environment characterized by “We are trying to have that Managing Editor President Jean-Bertrand national travel documents with mega trading blocs and the loss process completed to have 12 a regional passport by 2007. of preferential treatment for countries agree to the ratifica- Aristide from office in Feb. DAMIAN P. GREGORY Jamaica’s Bell wins undisputed world boxing crown Deputy Managing Editor SABRINA FENNELL (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7) except for a few men who challenger Steve Cunningham the Guadeloupe-born Graphic Artist stopped to talk with him of the United States, a fight Frenchman. the crowd was suddenly shar- briefly. And, as they walked which seems possible by June. James said the fight plan ing its allegiance, rising in DOROTHY CHIN away, one was heard admon- Whatever Bell decides, he was to weaken Mormeck with Account Executive appreciation of two skilled ishing his friend: “I told you explained, will depend largely body shots to expose his head warriors who had entertained he was a boxer!” on the quality of the opponent as a target for the knockout. VERNAL GORDON them thoroughly. Still, the and the purse. Bell, who now “I told him, ‘keep digging Account Executive sting of the earlier neglect had WHO’S NEXT? negotiates his own fights, told to the body’,” James Cellular: (954) 709-1661 hit a mark and could not be A good one too, based Caribbean Today that he explained. “He (Mormeck) easily erased. After the fight, on the performance against would like to attract large took some good shots, but SUNDAY SELLERS Account Executive Bell said being overlooked Mormeck. Yet Bell himself is purses to the cruiserweight he can’t last like that, taking inspired him to take the popu- still trying to get a clear pic- division - in the $1.5 million to them kinda shots. O’Neil has lar Mormeck’s titles. ture of his immediate future $2 million range. If that does- dropped a lot of guys with AMANDA ECHEVERRI “I proved them dead in the ring. Shortly after the n’t work, he is willing to move them shots...My thing is kill Accounting Manager wrong,” he said. “I’m coming fight, as he sat in his dressing up to the heavyweight division the body and the head will Caribbean Media Source in a fight underestimated. The room, exhausted, drenched to find bigger purses. show...Don’t worry about the Media Representatives crowd was basically on TOM JONAS to his underwear, a slight “If there is a fight for me head, the head will fall right 353 St. Nicolas Street, Suite 200 Mormeck’s (side) versus me. swelling above his right eye in the heavyweight, I’ll go in our lap.” Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2Y 2P1 But look, I’ve always been the and an icepack attached to his ahead and defend that. I’ll go It did fall, except in Tel: (514) 931-0422 • Fax: (514) 931-0455 E-mail: [email protected] underdog.” side, Bell hinted he would ahead and take that,” Bell Mormeck’s lap as he slumped The lack of recognition give Mormeck a rematch if said. “I’ll vacate (my cruiser- to the floor after being ham- Jamaica Bureau lingered after the fight too. As the Frenchman wanted it. But weight titles) and go to the mered in a neutral corner. It MARIE GREGORY Bell left the Garden with his Dale Brown, the Canadian heavyweights and go down in was the first time Mormeck (876) 925-5640 handlers, he was not met by P.O. Box 127, Constant Spring who Bell defeated to win the history again.” had been knocked out in his Kingston 8, Jamaica screaming fans, flashing cam- IBF title has already started His father agrees that his pro career. Yet it still stunned eras or hungry reporters to taunt the champion into a eldest son should take full observers to hear James claim pressing for last minute rematch. Bell has suddenly advantage of being suddenly that Bell did not follow the Opinions expressed by editors and quotes from a new undisputed writers are not necessarily those of the become the hunted, with thrust among boxing’s elite. fight plan precisely, despite publisher. champion. Instead Bell, a potential opponents willing to “I think he should stay the impressive win. sweatshirt hood pulled over play almost any card to get his there and make them come “(Bell) didn’t show, he Caribbean Today, an independent his head, arm draped around news magazine, is published every month attention. after him so that he can make didn’t execute, but he didn’t by Caribbean Publishing Services, Inc. his longtime boxing trainer “Bell should stand up the (big) money,” said Charles need to,” James said. Subscription rates are: US$20 per year Plenty James, and walking and give me the rematch I Bell. That may the worst thing (Bulk); 1st Class $35 per year. Caribbean Today is not responsible gingerly from the effects of deserve,” Brown was quoted When they do “come Bell’s future opponents would battle, was greeted by biting for unsolicited manuscripts or photos. To as saying. after him”, Bell said, he will want to hear. guarantee return, please include a self- New York winter chill. Bell But two days after the be ready. Just like he was for addressed stamped envelope. drew almost no attention as Mormeck fight Bell appeared Mormeck - or even better. Gordon Williams is Caribbean Articles appearing in Caribbean he made his way back to his Today may not be reproduced without leaning towards defending his “I was in excellent Today’s managing editor. written permission of the editor. hotel across the busy street, title against mandatory IBF shape,” he said after defeating R

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VIEWPOINT www.caribbeantoday.com Shame on delinquent Victoria’s student loan borrowers secret? ho knows what GORDON WILLIAMS United States, to track down delinquent borrowers. Victoria’s secret really is, or who Victoria t is a common complaint, Needless to say, that W was. in many of the poorer sec- money could have been used What we do know is that tions of Caribbean nations, to provide more loans for I those line of products would that higher education and, by more needy students. Yet it is never be named after a man, as extension, a chance at a pros- the selfishness of the delin- men are not inclined to keep perous life, are limited to the quent borrowers that has secrets. As soon as a man do “haves”, or those born with forced the hand of the Student sumpting so, him have to chat money. Loan Bureau in Jamaica. The ‘bout it. The “have nots”, or those SLB has to hunt them down That’s why many women from backgrounds of poverty, to get back the money they will say to a man: “I would give are often shut out of the very borrowed in good faith, under Another secrets. If men only knew what you a little piece yu nuh, but I process that can push them an agreement that they would area where women said about them in ‘fraid say yu will go tell yu fren towards that so-called better pay it back in a timely fashion. Victoria’s ladies rooms they’d not be so dem.” life. I hope the SLB finds them, secret holds self centered and smug. Meet a woman and you’ll Yet for years many gov- those delinquent borrowers, sway is in the “So what yu told him last hardly know anything about ernments have extended a and I hope the SLB manages bedroom. night?” her, plus most of them act as if helping hand – filled with to squeeze every last cent they Women will “Oh, exactly what he they can’t mash ants anyway. much needed dollars - to thou- owe from them…interest, act like they wanted to hear.” There she is, looking so angel- sands of those who find going penalties and all. I also hope have no expe- “And how was he?” ic, demure, chaste and virginal, to school a major struggle. that there are means to send a rience, beg- TONY “Oh, just so so, I’ve had bet- while beneath that veneer, that That assistance comes in stu- stronger message to them too. ging the man ROBINSON ter.” veil, is no vestal virgin. So dent loans, which have helped Jail time would not be a bad to, “Do, When they emerge from the many church sisters show up to produce some of the idea, but that seems unlikely. please take ladies room and the guys ask, “Is with a telltale bulge that I’ve region’s finest scholars who, in Many people who have time with me, be gentle, I’m what oonoo chat ‘bout in deh?” lost count. turn, have gone on to become borrowed student loans have not so experienced in this sort The unanimous reply always is, Women will be secretive productive members of society. turned out to be quite success- of thing.” “Oh, nothing.” Victoria’s secret and mask their past, while men The deal is simple: the ful. They have moved abroad, Ha, if he only knew. She catch dem again. will boast about and indeed loan is granted to the needy to countries like the U.S., and could have been the technical Another area of secrecy is embellish whatever deeds they student, who completes his or now earn big money. There is advisor for the book or movie not telling men what they real- may have done. Whatever a her education, then gets a no excuse for them not to version of the Kama Sutra and ly think. For some reason men man says, divide it in two, but decent job. Then the loan repay the loans on time and in could teach him a trick or two. always want to know and have whatever a woman says multi- must be repaid. That is the full. They just don’t care. But Victoria’s secret tells her to a comparative analysis regard- ply it by four. only so-called “catch”, and it Even if they are not mak- act otherwise. So while he ing their performance. Ask the man, “So how is not much of a catch at all ing big bucks, they can still thinks that he’s the one leading “So baby, how was I, was I many lovers you ever had?” really. pay back the loans over a her, she’s the one who’s leading the biggest, the best, the hard- “Oh, about 40.” But the For every needy student period of time. Either way, him, by the nose, down the gar- est, the longest?” woman in response to the same who has used a student loan they should pay so that some- den path, round and round the You’d think that he was query will say, “Including to successfully complete high- one else can get the opportu- mulberry bush. selling bananas in a produce you…just three, and those er education surely knows that nity they had. Shh, it’s Victoria’s secret. shop. Naturally, Victoria’s other two didn’t really mean the money is not free. They secret dictates that she says, anything. In fact, one was from should also know that for REFUSE FAKING “Oh honey, you were the high school days and we barely every student loan that is not But many flat out refuse There was a time when bestest, the mostest, the even kissed, and the other did- repaid there are students in to pay. Some boast they are women even faked being vir- longest, the hardest, and I have n’t last very long.” positions like they themselves simply beating a system that gins, and recently I read where never had better, you deserve That’s Victoria’s secret in were in not long ago – desper- beat up on them for a long quite a few have tried, some an S on your chest.” action. Wasn’t it the late super- ately needing help to pursue time. Others even refuse to successfully, to surgically And she deserves, not an star American basketball great the dream of a better life. acknowledge that the money replace their hymens so they’ll Oscar, but a Victoria’s Secret from the SLB was a loan. Wilt Chamberlain who boasted appear to be spanking brand Award for telling all those tales, about bedding over 20,000 SEARCH They claim it was rightfully new again. That’s like reversing keeping the truth to herself women in his lifetime? No Yet we learn that their money, that it is long the speedometer numbers on a while keeping a straight face. woman would ever make that Caribbean countries, like overdue to them. That is a used car so that the unsuspect- The secret also goes even claim about her past sexual Jamaica recently, have frightening thought, because ing buyer will think that it has to the desires of women, who exploits, for that’s Victoria’s launched a desperate search the SLB is out more than $4 less mileage than it really has. have been trained throughout secret. Women know that no for people who have ignored million dollars. That’s a lesson learnt from the centuries not to let their man wants to hear, “I slept the call to repay student loans. Think about it. Think Victoria;s secret. men know what is really hap- with 20 men...last year.” It’s a Money is being spent to hire how many poor students could Have you ever noticed pening in that area, especially rule handed down from gener- collectors overseas, like in the that women will always go to in the first part of the relation- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) ation to generation. the ladies room together, but ship. Don’t for one minute men always alone? It’s the Victorias, discussing their (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)

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www.caribbeantoday.com VIEWPOINT What Martin Luther King Jr. might protest today WASHINGTON - I knew we pages, “Canaan’s Edge” is the to maintain his own moral major exam- Yet, King and his move- had entered an interesting new third and final doorstop of a authority. Angry young colle- ple: In con- ment forced Americans to reex- phase of American history when book for Branch to produce on gians of my generation rallied fronting amine ancient prejudices and I saw a discount mattress compa- the King years and it may be around “black power”, which Chicago the one elusive dream of ny’s jubilant television ad for a the most revealing of the racial would prove to be a slogan for- Mayor opportunity shared by pioneers “Martin Luther King Day Sale”. and political dynamics that ever in search of an agenda as Richard J. and immigrants across this very Contrary to their slogan, I shape and haunt American poli- flames erupted in urban riots. Daley over diverse nation. Were he to look did not “have a good night’s tics today. Many of my fellow boomers, slumlords and down on us today, he would see sleep” that night. I lay awake While most King Day trib- our Afros leaping to the skies, housing dis- that his movement has become instead, rationalizing that King utes focus on his hope-filled ridiculed King as too conserva- crimination, CLARENCE more localized. Racial and eth- Day is not really selling out. 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech tive and over-the-hill-hard as King suffered PAGE nic relations vary widely from Rather, America is buying in. and its attractive vision of little this may be for our hip-hop-era a tactical one town to another. Yet there But, into what? black and white boys and girls, offspring to imagine. defeat unlike are new public-private partner- Forty years ago, King did the descendants of slave and J. Edgar Hoover’s FBI, the any setback he had faced in the ships springing up to build low- not want us to get a good night’s descendants of slave-owners sit- world would later learn, was South. cost housing and there are new sleep. As historian Taylor Branch ting together at the table of secretly eavesdropping and Forty years later, we see all advances made by women and recounts exhaustively in “At brotherhood, his final three harassing King from another of these issues bearing new non-whites that would have Canaan’s Edge: America in the years offered a less-unifying angle, particularly about his fruit. We can hear the voices of been hard to imagine 40 years King Years, 1965-68” (Simon and prescription of what America marital infidelities, which white backlash in Judge Sam ago. Schuster), King and the rest of needed to do to bring his dream Branch describes King confess- Alito’s recollections of the mid- The next frontier, the the civil rights movement were alive. ing to his wife during a guilt- dle-class and lower-middle-class growing divide between making an important transition The vast majority of ridden moment in 1968, aston- whites among whom he grew Americans who see opportuni- in 1966, a transition from con- Americans had little problem ishingly while she is recovering up in Trenton, traditionally ties opening up and those who cerns about race to concerns agreeing with King’s notion from an operation. Democrats who would become see opportunities shrinking, about class, poverty and econom- that the dream of equal oppor- Ronald Reagan Republicans. remains to be conquered. That ic opportunity. tunity was “as old as the BACKLASH Cultural politics divided the revolution calls on more than The Civil Rights Act of American Dream.” But when King moved increasingly Democratic Party between anti- one black leader. It calls for all 1964 and the Voting Rights Act it came to taking steps to help from the South into the more- war liberals who followed King of us to be leaders in every cor- of 1965 were passed, banning those left behind economically vexing racially-related prob- and the cold war warriors who ner of American life, as long as legal racial segregation and and politically to catch up, lems of discrimination in jobs, followed the late Senator we feel what King used to call paving the way to an explosion even at the expense or incon- schools and housing in the Henry “Scoop” Jackson of “divinely dissatisfied.” in black elected representatives venience of those who were urban North. With that came a Washington State. Prominent (in the United States). Soon further ahead, he ran into new white backlash against neo-conservatives like Paul © 2006 by the Chicago would come an additional con- opposition from outside and school busing, open housing Wolfowitz, Elliot Abrams and Tribune. Distributed by the cern, the Vietnam War, which within his movement. and eventually affirmative Doublas Feith in the George Tribune Media Services, Inc. would divide the movement and Branch reveals a King who action plans. Northern white W. Bush administration got the nation. was constantly trying to hold working-class and middle-class their starts working for R his movement together and ethnics didn’t mind King’s Jackson, who lost two tries to REVEALING stay up to date with emerging movement until it came to win the Democratic presiden- With more than 1,000 issues like the war, while trying their neighborhoods. One tial nomination. Shame on delinquent student loan borrowers (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) preventing them from getting to If the SLB manages to rower should be deprived of away someone else’s dream, the dream they want and help- track down the delinquent bor- the fat of the land too. Persons then their dream of enjoying benefit if the $4 million is repaid. ing to break the cycle of poverty rowers overseas, the penalty who scampered overseas and their homeland should be But some very selfish people are that straps the country. should be something that hits refuse to repay student loans in shattered too. holding back those students, at the heart of the “crime”: If the Caribbean should be the offender, by not repaying banned from returning to the Gordon Williams is Caribbean the loan, deprived a poor stu- region for a while, even while Today’s managing editor. dent of inheriting the fat of the they are forced to pay up. land, then the delinquent bor- After all, if they take R Victoria’s secret?

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) woman though, will have an like the Mormon Tabernacle aching in her loins, a palpitating Choir, while secretly she’s not think that on that first date the heart, goose bumps on her skin feeling a thing. But that’s her man is the only one who is feel- which catches a fire, dilating secret, and only she and ing all sorts of urges. pupils, hair stand up on her Victoria know for sure. Most foolish men will neck back, primed like a diesel When a man has an affair express their desires and act the engine, yet on the outside you there is something in his psy- idiot, as they are not blessed would never know, as she che, his, male genetic makeup with Victoria’s secret. The remains as cool as a cucumber. that makes him want to boast Victoria’s secret again. and tell the world about it. Just Maybe that’s another rea- like a rooster crowing after the son why they have to go to the act, or a bull bellowing after he ladies room so often. went for heifer and heifer and Meanwhile, no man can mask heifer. I guarantee that no man his desires, especially while would ever sleep with J-Lo, dancing, prompting the famous Halle, Demi Moore, Angelina line from movie star Mae West, Jolie, Maria Carey or any other “Honey, is that a gun in your superstar beauty and not boast pocket, or are you just happy about it. But conversely, so to see me?” Victoria’s may many women have had, are have a gun too, but it has a having, and will be having secret silencer. affairs with famous people and One huge area of Victoria’s not breathe a word about it. Is secret also is that of the big ‘O’ she or isn’t she? Only Victoria in women. That’s where the knows for sure. secret really pulls the wool over men’s eyes. She will wail like a [email protected] banshee, howl like a baying wolf, scream like a screech owl, R sing praises to the most high

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February 2006 CARIBBEAN TODAY 11

VALENTINE’ S DAYDAY www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today feature Resolve to fight fairly with your significant other FeatureSource - What was your tionship. As is all too often the short circuits the higher func- No name calling - Words like Recognize that person - Look New Year’s resolution last year? case in this world, the most dif- tions of the brain. In this agi- stupid, idiot, moron and other at each other when you argue. Get in shape? Read the clas- ficult things are also the most tated state, our ability to rea- insults should never cross your Eye contact implies that you’re sics? Watch less television? son abandons us, and we’re left lips when talking about your actually listening and not just Typically, the problem with mashing defensive emotional partner. pretending to do so. Also, a New Year’s resolution is that responses with our partner - when you make eye contact, it requires radical change in not a recipe for consensus, Think before you speak - you’ll find it more difficult to your day-to-day life. Cutting understanding and reconcilia- Don’t say whatever comes to throw out hurtful accusations. back on coffee doesn’t seem so tion. mind in the middle of an argu- If an argument breaks out difficult at 11:59 p.m. on Dec. “The idealized, fairy-tale ment. Censor yourself. Say over laying the ground rules 31, but by Jan. 2 it is another relationship is just that, unless only what’s relevant, and avoid for fighting fairly, you want to matter. of course you happen to live in saying hurtful things. keep another of Oertel’s guide- A better New Year’s strat- a tower with exceptionally long lines in mind. egy is to work on an existing hair or are routinely picked up Do it…or else - Offer choices “Sometimes fighting is issue that needs only a tweak. for gala balls in pumpkin car- rather than issuing ultimatums. funny,” Oertel says. “You’ll What better place to start riages,” Oertel says. “Once you An ultimatum can have only fight, and that’s normal. But if tweaking than your significant accept that fighting is a natural two outcomes: Your partner you see the humor in fights other? aspect of a relationship, you’ll obeys your will, usually with over silly things, you’ll fight “A relationship is defined Ground rules make for better lovers’ be better prepared to deal with anger and resentment, or your less and laugh more.” by its ups and downs,” says Liya quarrels. fights when they occur.” partner suffers the conse- When you fight fairly, you Lev Oertel, author of “Couple quence, which hurts you both. free up time to get a head start Care” (Meadowbrook Press). GROUND RULES on another new year’s resolution “The trick is, as the song goes, important.” Laying out ground rules for I can hear you - Yell only in - replacing the sparks of conflict to accentuate the positive. Indeed, fighting fairly is a fight can be an invaluable tool case of an emergency, such as a with the sparks of passion. Learning how to fight fairly, one of the most difficult in keeping things under control. fire. Yelling suggests a lack of when those inevitable squabbles aspects of a relationship to Here are five fair-fighting guide- control, which will usually lead Author: FeatureSource Staff break out, is perhaps the most master. The flair of emotion a lines from Oertel’s “Couple to words and actions you’ll critical aspect of a healthy rela- good, old-fashioned fight stirs Care” to get you started: later regret. R Valentine’s Day for the romantically challenged FeatureSource - Being roman- Emily Jane Bronte • Sarah McLachlan: let the music and poetry - Carla Beuning tic may not be as hard as you • “Remembrance” “Fumbling Towards Ecstacy” sweep her off her feet. thought. Your name doesn’t • Van Morrison: “Have I Told R need to be Casanova to have Lord Byron You Lately That I Love You?” a genuinely romantic evening. • “She Walks in Beauty” • Righteous Brothers: Liya Lev Oertel, author • “To Caroline” “Unchained Melody” of “52 Romantic Evenings to • Savage Garden: “Truly Ted Hughes Spice Up Your Love Life”, Madly Deeply” • “September” says, “A close relationship is • Seal: “Kiss From A Rose” nourished by small, sweet, Percy Bysshe Shelley • Barbara Streisand and Brian gestures: holding hands while • “Love’s Philosophy” Adams: “I Finally Found taking a walk; stealing kisses Someone” between Christina Rossetti • U2: “All I Want Is You” errands; • “The First Day” This Valentine’s Day, slowing don’t worry about creating the down William Shakespeare perfect evening. Open a bottle long • “Let Me Confesse” of wine, follow these tips and enough • “Mine Eye Hath Play’d the to give a Painter” hug; • “Shall I Compare Thee to a telling Summer’s Day?” her she The right words can make MUSIC someone feel extra special. looks beautiful Valentine’s Day isn’t com- (and plete without music. The right meaning it) in the morning song can make you feel sexier, before she combs her hair.” sultrier and more in the mood You don’t have to spend a for romance. Take advantage lot of money or make a big of music’s seductive power to deal out of Valentine’s Day. It create an evening that will is simply an opportunity to be have you and your sweetie romantic and express the love humming for weeks afterward. you feel all year. Try wooing Here are some classic roman- your sweetheart with poetry tic songs that Oertel recom- and music. mends: Even if you’re not a poet- • Eric Clapton: “Wonderful ry lover, you should consider Tonight” giving it a try. Oertel says, • Harry Conick Jr.: “A Wink “Poets have been writing and a Smile” romantic verse for hundreds • Chris deBurgh: “Lady in of years, so there must be Red” something in it to further the • John Denver: “Annie’s cause of love. Why not try it Song,” “Perhaps Love” and see?” • Celine Dion: “My Heart If you’re not up to writing Will Go On, “Because You your own, try these classic Loved Me” lovers’ poems: • Enya: “Sail Away” • Whitney Houston: “I Will Elizabeth Barrett Browning Always Love You” • “How Do I Love Thee” • Jewel: “Near You Always” • “If Thou Must Love Me” • John Lennon: “Grow Old • “My Heart and I” With Me”

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FOOD www.caribbeantoday.com Savoury soups: flexible starter or full meal deal othing hits the spot like the end of cooking time while cial type of bouillon, which of most soups, is made from a bowl of hot hearty hardy vegetable may go in has vinegar; white wine or boiling meat, bones and/or Nvegetable soup on a with or just after the meat. lemon juice and the other vegetables and then straining chilly evening. Or a savoury Seafood like shrimp may also contents are poached. the solids from the liquid. serving of chicken soup when be added to the pot close to • Cold soups, which may be Stock is actually an ingredient a cold is ravaging your system. the end of cooking time. fruity as well, are served mostly for soup and is usually bland. Ahhh…soup…that great in hot seasons and tomato soup Also, a stock is not a complete starter or main dish that chas- THE WORLD OF SOUP is the most popular. meal, while soup is. es away chills and fills you up In western cuisine, this • Noodle soups, of which like nothing else. meal is usually savory, although Eat up, soup is delicious. chicken noodle is the most QUICK SOUP Soup is a mostly liquid in China and Japan there are popular, may contain a host of Prepared soups are available dish which contains solid com- some sweet and even fruity meat has been boiled. different types of noodles. in different forms, the most pop- ponents of vegetables or meat. versions. In the Caribbean, • A consommé is like a • Dessert soups are usual- ular of which are condensed or It differs from a stew in that it soups have played a major role. broth, but it is clear liquid and ly fruity with even an addition powdered. Condensed soups has much more liquid and Traditionally in Jamaica, for may contain egg whites. of milk such as Ginataan, need an addition of water, usually much less solid contents. example, no Saturday was com- • A thickened soup is one Filipino soup, which is made one part soup to one part water. The nutritional value varies plete without soup. Whether it which contains bread, flour, with fruit and coconut milk. Powdered soups can be used to depending on the ingredients was beef soup, pumpkin soup, grain, or any other thickening • Fruit soups, popular in form the base for soups to which added. The types vary accord- red peas or chicken soup. agent such as corn starch Asia and Scandinavian coun- you may add vegetables and cuts ing to the consistency and This tradition has changed • Puréed soup is made ties are served hot or cold of meat to add more body. ingredients. When preparing a somewhat with the prolifera- with blended ingredients and depending on the recipe. Soup may be served as the soup it is important to note tion of fast food restaurants, is then strained before serving. • Japanese soups, which first course of a meal but it can when different ingredients are but soup has by no means left • A cream soup is one in feature tofu, are rarely seen in be the main meal as well. which the main ingredient is added as this will have a major the Saturday menu. western cuisine. One example Article and photographs effect on the nutritional value, puréed with cream added. of this is Miso soup. • Bisque is also a type of edited and reprinted from texture and flavor of the soup. TYPES OF SOUP Contrary to popular Gracefoods.com Usually quick cooking • A broth or a bouillon is puréed soup normally made thinking, stock is not a kind of vegetables are added near to uncleared liquid in which from seared seafood. soup. Stock, which is the base • Court Bouillon is a spe- R

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TOURISM/ TRAVEL www.caribbeantoday.com U.S. extends passport requirement Jamaica eyes Asian market SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, lar markets deadline for travel to Caribbean CMC - Jamaica is looking to as well as tap into the Asian market in other areas, SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, to Canada “Will the American citi- order to increase visitor said CMC – American citizens will and Mexico. zens say I’m going to spend arrivals to the island, accord- Pennicook, now need passports to return And also $400 more to come to the ing to Director of Tourism who attended home from the Caribbean traffic could Caribbean, rather than go Paul Pennicook. last month’s from Dec. 31, 2006, instead gravitate to the Lake District in Jamaican tourism officials Caribbean of the Dec. 31, 2005 date from other Michigan?” say they would attend the Marketplace Pennicook that was originally proposed, Caribbean The CHA plans to use Beijing International Travel at the Puerto Director General Officer islands to the extension of the deadline and Tourism Market (BITTM) Rico Convention Centre. of the Caribbean Hotel those territo- Sanguinetti to mount a unified public and and the World Fair in Shanghai “Currently we get about Association (CHA) Alec ries that do private sector campaign to in April, in an effort to capital- 70 percent of our business Sanguinetti has said. not require U.S. passports,” educate the traveling ize on the Chinese tourism from the U.S., however we Last year Washington said Sanguinetti. American public on the issue. market. are doubling our efforts in announced that as of Dec. 31, “We’re planning to do this “We’ve always gotten other markets in order to 2005, all citizens traveling to HEAVY LOSSES on a regional basis working some Japanese business, we’re keep up with the growth of the Caribbean would need He said an economic with the Caribbean Tourism working to have that grow rooms; we’re having a lot of passports to return home and impact assessment showed Organisation (CTO) so that and we’re working on China,” new rooms being built in the same rule would apply to US$1.8 billion would be lost the message is the same,” Pennicook told the Caribbean Jamaica and we obviously those returning from Canada and some 118,000 jobs in the Sanguinetti said. Media Corporation (CMC). need to fill them,” Pennicook and Mexico by plane or ship, direct tourism industry would “There’s only one way of Kingston is also seeking said. from Dec. 31, 2006. Caribbean be lost. telling U.S. citizens that they to expand business in its regu- tourism officials had raised “The cost of a passport need a passport to come to the concerns that the new regula- for a family of four is just a lit- Caribbean and that has to be R tions would result in millions tle shy of $400. That could very clear so it doesn’t confuse of dollars in losses, as visitors represent an airfare to travel them.” would choose to go to other within the United States; it The Bahamas has already Hoteliers doubtful over destinations. could represent three nights started distributing flyers at “If we had to do it in of accommodation at a very the airport and hotels, advis- January this year, which was nice hotel, so that is where we ing visitors of the need to World Cup preparedness the initial plan, we would be face a challenge,” Sanguinetti obtain passports before Jan. 1, at a disadvantage in relation explained. SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, national tournament that runs (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14) CMC - One year before the from Mar. 11 to April 28 next start of the International year. However the hoteliers Cricket Council (ICC) World say the competition would SISTAHS JAMMIN’ IN JAMAICA Cup in the Caribbean, region- take place during the peak al hoteliers are questioning “The Joys and Pain of the Caribbean’s preparedness Sistahhood” will again be for the event. celebrated this year at the The Caribbean Hotel Sixth Annual Sistah’s Association (CHA) said a Jammin’ In Jamaica Free to Be Selfish By Putting Self number of issues were yet to First Retreat this summer. be settled, regarding hotel Women from across the rates, accommodation and United States are scheduled contracts for tour operators. to be in the Caribbean island CHA President Berthia from July 2-9. Photograph Parle said the organizers had shows last year’s participants turned down the CHA’s living it up. Karaine Holness, request to be included in the Jamaican-born business planning process, but “when Parle owner in New Haven, things started going like as we Connecticut, has taken more than 70 women to Jamaica say in the Caribbean, ‘Ole season and there have been as a past facilitator. For more Mas’, we were called into try concerns of insufficient rooms information, visit www.sis- and solve these issues.” during the event. tahsjammin.com or call Antigua, Barbados, Parle said another major Holness at 203-509-1516. Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St concern is the failure so far to Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. reach an agreement on hotel Vincent and the Grenadines rates. and Trinidad and Tobago will host matches during the inter- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14) St. Kitts presents appealing plan for tourism BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - will expand its tourism offer- National Tourism Policy and The Tourism Authority in St. ing and infrastructure. Strategic Plan for the medium Kitts has developed an eight- “With the emphasis and term will be developed during point tourism plan for 2006- urgency that has been placed the first six months of 2006.” 2007 that emphasizes the on the closure of and transfor- St. Kitts is known for its important role the industry mation from sugar produc- natural beauty, namely the must play in the island’s econ- tion, it is critical that govern- reef and forest ecosystems, omy. ment approach the tourism the heritage, culture, genuine In an effort to broaden industry with even greater hospitality of the Kittitian its marketplace appeal and care and planning,” said people, and the overall accentuate its natural assets, Ricky Skerritt, St. Kitts’s ambiance of the island. following the cessation of Minister of State in the sugar production on the Ministry of Tourism, Sports THE PLAN island, the short-term plan and Culture, in a press release Based on these assets the St. aims to focus on the product’s issued last month. Kitts Tourism Authority has attributes which set the island “Thus we have imple- developed the following eight- apart from the competition, mented an eight point short- point tourism plan that will while also outlining various term tourism plan for 2006- attempt to: ways in which the destination 2007. Details of a revised (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14)

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www.caribbeantoday.com TOURISM/ TRAVEL St. Kitts presents appealing plan for tourism TOURISM BRIEFS (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13) ICC Cricket World Cup in tourism in the development • Suriname against inter-regional • JetBlue to start flights to 2007 to position St. Kitts to be project planning. flights by U.S. carriers Bermuda • Promote the national assets a significant player in the Suriname will not allow United States- Low-cost airline JetBlue Airways • Improve the ability to track to attract more upscale travel- world of sports tourism and based airlines to operate inter- has announced it is to begin flights the source of tourism arrivals ers to the visitor mix by events tourism in general. Caribbean flights at the expense to Bermuda in the spring following leveraging nature, culture and of regional airlines. Transport, five years of wooing by that coun- heritage, which add perceived Communication and Tourism Minister try’s government. value to a destination and Alice Amafo said last month that while The fast-growing American attract a more discerning and Suriname would negotiate an “Open company has been a target since well traveled visitor. Skies” agreement with the U.S. gov- 2001 in the expectation that its low • Introduce a wider variety of ernment, it would make sure that the cost tickets will entice more visi- accommodations and attrac- negotiated air transport agreement tors to the island and break the tions that appeal to the more would not breach the interests of the stranglehold of higher-cost carri- sophisticated traveler, includ- Caribbean community (CARICOM). ers, industry sources said. ing luxury hotels and villas, world class golf courses, mari- • Sandals to build hotel in • St. Lucia welcomes return of nas, spas and wellness centers, Grenada ~ minister Air Jamaica a thoroughbred race track, The Grenada government says the President of the Caribbean Hotel gourmet dining and high-end Jamaica-based Sandals Group is to Association (CHA) Berthia Parle says shopping. construct a multi-million dollar the return of Air Jamaica to St. Lucia hotel on the island. will help achieve the government’s • Improve and upgrade the Finance Minister Anthony forecast of 300,000 visitors from the existing tourism infrastructure Boatswain said that discussions United States market this year. to ensure that a quality prod- were well advanced for the con- uct is provided across the full The colorful attraction of St. Kitts at night. struction of the $60 million 200- Compiled from CMC and other range of accommodation room hotel, which the Keith sources. options. Mitchell administration hopes would and the details of tourism • Facilitate the economic begin by the middle of this year. R • Expand the training for the empowerment of small- and expenditure with the objective front-line and other service medium-sized local enterpris- of assessing performance and providers to ensure they have es and help to increase impact of the sector on gov- U.S. extends passport requirement the tools to enhance the visi- awareness within the commu- ernment revenue and the tor experience and provide a nities, especially our youth, of national economy. deadline for travel to Caribbean globally competitive service the opportunities that the St. Kitts is located in the product. tourism sector provides. northern Leeward Islands of (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13) along the same lines, and the Caribbean. ensure that we work closely • Maximize the destination’s • Give full respect to the 2007, and CHA President with our tour operators and status as a host nation for the principles of sustainable R Berthia Parle said the other all our other travel partners to destinations plan to take a really impress upon people similar approach. the need to start applying for “What we want to do is those passports,” Parle said. use The Bahamas template and ask a number of our R hotels and destinations…to look at developing something Hoteliers doubtful over World Cup preparedness

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13) believed the number of bene- fits for World Cup 2007 was On the issue of accommo- grossly overstated, in terms of dation, the CHA president number of visitors “and every- said the traditional travel part- thing that’s supposed to come ners stand to be marginalized to the islands.” Despite these if they are not included in the issues, she said it is too late to deals. She insisted that the turn back, as regional govern- hotels need to maintain their ments have borrowed large agreements with their partners sums of money to prepare for during the event. the games. Some of the destinations “The papers have been have a limited room count and signed, the documents have the governments have provid- been signed, we will look at ed incentives for construction ways of working with our gov- of new facilities. However, ernments and hosting this Parle is not optimistic that event. And I have no doubt it work would be completed in will be an exceptional event,” time for next year’s matches. Parle said. She also told reporters she R

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BLACK HISTORY MONTHMONTH www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today feature Coretta Scott King: a champion for Caribbean people

oretta Scott King, who have walked largely in the shadow of her of 1964 and the Voting Rights stood shoulder to shoul- through those husband. Act a year later. Cder with her more illus- doors and benefit- “Most people don’t King was a key figure in trious husband in the battle ed from it,” know enough about her,” Dr. helping to make her husband’s for civil rights in the United Mervyn Solomon, Magnus said. birthday a national holiday in States, a movement which ulti- a Trinidadian-born Scott King was a classical- the U.S. mately paved the way for associate senior ly trained opera singer, but She also worked tirelessly Caribbean immigrants to bet- professor and fac- stayed at home during the to ensure that his legacy was ter integrate into American ulty librarian at early days of the civil rights kept alive after his assassina- society, died on Jan. 31. Miami-Dade movement to raise the cou- tion in 1968. She founded The She was 78. College, told ple’s four children, Yolanda King Center, a rich resource Scott King’s contribution Caribbean Today. Denise King, Martin Luther for documenting the life of helped people of color go King III, Dexter Scott King her husband, which began in from the back of the bus, and WIDE IMPACT and the Reverend Albertine the basement of the couple’s from eating at segregated Yet the influ- King. home. lunch counters, to a more tol- ence of the Kings Yet she did not escape the “Getting ideas from ideas erant and accepting environ- was felt not only in wrath of racism. In 1956 the to action is what separates the ment, especially for immi- the U.S. History Kings’ Montgomery, Alabama dreamers from the produc- grants who would come from scholars believe that home was bombed as Coretta, ers,” Magnus said. the Caribbean in ever increas- the strength of the her daughter and a friend But to many the work ing numbers to pursue the civil rights move- were inside the house. done by both Coretta and her American Dream. ment stirred husband played an important The wife of the late civil Caribbean people MORE INVOLVED role in creating opportunities rights leader Dr. Martin into action to Coretta Scott King hugs her husband after his release from However, before Dr. enjoyed by all people, particu- Luther King Jr. had battled a address their own jail in the 1960s. King’s death in 1968, his wife larly those from the African variety of health ailments, plights of inequality. gradually became more diaspora who have settled in including a heart attack, and “The struggle we all had in Jamaica,” said involved in the movement, the U.S. was in Mexico recovering for civil rights in the United Marcia Magnus, the Jamaican- accompanying her husband from a stroke when she suc- States contributed greatly to born founder of the Caribbean on civil rights marches. Staff, wire service and other cumbed to respiratory failure the black consciousness move- American Politically Active Mrs. King also stood reports contributed to this while being treated for ovari- ment in the Caribbean,” Dr. Citizens, told Caribbean beside her husband through story. an cancer. Clinton Hutton, a political Today. some the greatest triumphs During her adult life she philosophy professor at the “She was the keeper of of the civil rights movement, R stood tall in the civil rights University of the West Indies the flame on every front, the including the Civil Rights Act struggle and was instrumental in Jamaica told Caribbean political struggle, the econom- in keeping the legacy of Dr. Today. ic, the social struggle and fam- King alive for almost 40 years “The legacy of non-vio- ily struggle. She never gave Miami Library System after he was gunned down on lence in conflict resolution is up.” the balcony of a Memphis, important in the struggle for Despite her contributions Tennessee hotel. human rights. She (Coretta to the movement, and being offers celebration “The work of Coretta Scott King) was an important one of the most respected link to that tradition. That Scott King and her husband figures in black America, through poetry, dance, and link is now broken.” he Miami-Dade Public opened the doors for black Coretta Scott King lived music. Storyteller Madafo “She was the grandmother Library System will people and as a black person I Tcommemorate Black Lloyd Wilson will perform at History Month this year with seven library branches, trans- a series of literary and cultural porting audiences to Africa Ethiopia’s Prince Ermias returns to events that will include through descriptive folktales nationally known authors, jazz and song. concerts, storytelling perform- Art exhibitions include South Florida to discuss ‘Legacy’ ances and art exhibitions. contemporary works by This year’s theme pays Miami artist Bayunga rince Ermias Sahle- tribute to black fraternal, Kialeuka; sketchbooks by Selassie, the president of social, and civic institutions. Overtown artist Purvis Young; Pthe Ethiopian Crown African American activist a collection of masks from the Council and the grandson of and author Sister Souljah will female-only Sande Society of Haile Selassie I, will be the discuss her novel “The Sierra Leone and Liberia; a main presenter during a series Coldest Winter Ever”, a gritty photographic exhibition of of lectures in South Florida coming-of-age story about the Little Haiti by Gary Monroe; beginning this month. teenage daughter of a success- Harlem photographic portraits The theme for his lectures ful drug dealer, at the North by the late Carl Van Vechten; will be “ Ethiopia and its endur- Dade Regional Library at 2 and the artwork of James E. ing Legacy of a Solomonic p.m. Feb. 25. Ransome. Dynasty”. The Library System will Teens, ages 12-19 years, The lectures are being feature additional visits from are invited to participate in presented by T.A.F.A.R.I. and authors Irene Smalls, James the “2006 Black History the Black Graduate Student Ransome, Joyce Carol Month Teen Essay” and Organization at Florida Thomas, Preston Allen, Eloise Poetry Contest. To partici- International University Greenfield and illustrator Jan pate, they can contact their (FIU), along with the Africana Spivey Gilchrist. nearest library by Feb. 18 for Studies Program and the Two presentations will details. Department of Multiculural Prince Ermias highlight the cultural and A schedule of events Student Affairs at University artistic significance of jazz. can be found online at of Miami (U.M.). University Center, 1306 Information about Prince “Elements of Jazz” is an inter- www.mdpls.org The prince is slated to Stanford Dr. in Coral Gables. Ermias and the Ethiopian active program featuring For more information, speak at 8 p.m. Feb. 28 in the For more directions to FIU, Crown Council may also be artist Nicole Yarling, who call 305-375-BOOK. All Graham Center Ballrooms, at call 305-348 2138; or the obtained at his official web- teaches children the anatomy events, made possible through F.I.U’s south campus, 11200 U.M., call 305-284 2211. For site, www.ethiopiancrown.org of a jazz song. “Curing the Air the support of Citibank, are S.W. Eighth St., Miami and more information about the of its Fever” is a program that free and open to the public. then at 7 p.m. Mar. 2. at events, or to R.S.V.P., call R demonstrates the genius of U.M.’s Flamingo Ballroom, 305-227-3149 or 305-284 6340. artist Gwendolyn Brooks R

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www.caribbeantoday.com BLACK HISTORY MONTHMONTH ~ A Caribbean Today feature Miami Dade College celebrates African American culture motivational speech puses in Florida during month include: through a variety of by Mary Wilson, for- February to recognize African merchandise show- Amer singer with the American culture. • Feb. 11, from 11 a.m. to cased by local ven- pop group The Supremes, Wilson is scheduled to 1 p.m. The Homestead cam- dors. titled “Dare to Dream”, will appear at 11:15 a.m. Feb. 16 in pus hosts its Black Heritage be among the highlights of the McCarthy Theater, Room Storytelling Hour, providing • Feb. 18, from “Black History Month” cele- 6120 at MDC’s Kendall cam- activities in celebration of noon to 5 p.m. at brations staged at Miami pus. Black Heritage Month for the Wolfson campus Dade College (MDC) cam- Other highlights of the children ages three to eight there be a presenta- and their families. tion by African American media • Feb. 18, from 9:30 a.m. to mogul Catherine 12:30 p.m. at the Medical Elizabeth “Cathy” Center, health issues in the Hughes, who will black community will be discuss her keys to addressed at a “Community success. Health Expo”. In addition to learning more about diabetes • Feb. 20, at the and high blood pressure, Wolfson campus attendees can get general there will be the health screenings, eye exams, First Annual Bid teeth cleanings, and checkups Whist Tournament. Wilson for their pets or even a relax- Entry fee is $20 per 305-237-3932, 305-237-3285 or ing massage, while browsing person. 305-237-7533. All events are free and Medical - 950 N.W. 20th open to the public unless oth- St. – 305-237-4336, 305-237- erwise indicated. 4103, 305-237-4316, 305-237- For more information 4102 or 305-237-4316. about MDC’s Black History Homestead - 500 College Month events, call or visit the Terrace, Homestead - following campuses: 305-237-5046. North – 11380 N.W. 27th Details of Black History Ave. - 305-237-1250. month activities at all MDC Kendall - 11011 S.W. campuses can be obtained by 104th St., Miami - 305-237- visiting www.mdc.edu. 2884 or 305-237-2777. Wolfson - 300 N.E. R Second Ave. – 305-237-3720,

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ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT www.caribbeantoday.com ‘Irie Jam’ searches for stars in Caribbean music talent pool

DAWN A. DAVIS via the radio station’s website on voice quality, delivery, writ- (www.iriejamradio.com), and ing and originality. Clarke hink you have what it through call-ins at their on-air explained that because every takes to become a reg- number 914-235-9786 or by song cannot be entered, the Tgae or dancehall star? calling their offices at 888- ratio station will play some of Well, here’s your chance. IRIE-NYC during the the entries randomly - those Beginning this month, Thursday night timeslot. that don’t make the final cut. New Rochelle, New York- Each month the station There should be no shortage based reggae radio station Irie will announce winners on of entries. Jam is launching a Caribbean Saturdays during the 1 p.m. to “For a couple of years DJ talent contest in search of the 6 p.m. program. Semi-finals, Roy has been receiving CDs, next big names in reggae, quarter-finals, and finals will be records, and tapes from dancehall and dub poetry. held to determine the top win- would-be stars,” Clarke said. The brainchild of popular ners. Organizers have also put “After getting hundred of Irie Jam disc jockey DJ Roy a lid on lyrics that degrade tapes and CDs he decided to (Roy Walters) and the first of women or promote violence. ‘Give the Youth a Buss’. It its kind in the New York tri- “We don’t play songs with came on the air one day and it state area, the Caribbean tal- cursing, gun lyrics, songs that took off; it made a big impact ent contest will attempt to dis- are derogatory to women,” on the community. So we cover raw singing talent. Not Clarke emphasized. just another “American Idol” Winners will be judged based (CONTINUED ON PAGE 18) clone, organizers claim, the contest, dubbed “Give the Youth a Buss”, promises to energize the Caribbean music Clarke Telling stories to scene. “There is a lot of great ent) what they need - promo- York, Connecticut and New talent here, and throughout tion and to be heard. We are Jersey. The organizers hope the preserve the culture the Caribbean that doesn’t get here day and night anyway, talent contest will spread the keeping Caribbean culture radio station’s cultural message heard,” Bobby Clarke, Irie • TITLE: A Jamaican exchanges and sophisticated Jam Radio’s president/chief alive here in the U.S. So we even further. decided to try and make Storyteller’s Tale libraries, the richness of cul- executive officer, explained to • AUTHOR: Lorrimer ture was best continued by Caribbean Today recently. stars.” RULES A stalwart in the industry, “Give the Youth a Buss” is Burford word of mouth, through sto- “For the past 10 to 12 ries passed along in time, years we’ve been stuck with Irie Jam Radio has been on the open to male and female air for 14 years enjoying a “very artistes of reggae, dancehall, o matter how sweet added to or subtracted from, (dancehall artistes) Beenie reworked and presented in a (Man), Buju (Banton), decent market share,” accord- dub poetry, and just about any life gets for average ing to Clarke. Competing with Caribbean music genre. Five Caribbean immigrants fascinating color through Bounty (Killa). So, our chal- N clever description. major radio stations, including entries will be selected and living in “farrin” – the United lenge here at Irie Jam is to Yet even with cultivate new talent. the Clear Channels, Irie Jam played on the air each week on States, United Kingdom, has carved out a niche for itself Thursday evenings during the Canada, for exam- Lester Jenkins’s “We have a responsibility insistence on to the music and culture,” among the Caribbean populace 9 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. segment. ple – there are throughout the New York tri- Winners will be decided by an always times sticking to the Clarke stressed, adding “we passion of re- decided to give them (the tal- state area, which includes New Irie Jam panel, public voting when they will think back to telling the tales, the unique his way of experiences of somehow pre- ‘Jamaica 2 Rahtid’ hits South home, however serving a cul- humble that ture left background behind in Florida stage next month might have been. Jamaica, his In Lorrimer wife Isabel is Jamaica 2 Rahtid”, a Burford’s world, not so happy musical revue which those experiences with the “takes a funny look at were bonded to idea. She Jamaica’s state of affairs, is the traditional art somehow set to take the stage in of storytelling, sees the South Florida early next which was tied to clinging to month. the natives of the the things Aston Cooke’s come- region long before “old” as taking a step back. dy, which has been playing their foreparents ever left She is upset that her husband at the Barn Theatre in Africa aboard slave ships for insists on speaking “patois”, New Kingston, Jamaica, the Caribbean. although he has moved to the presents colorful Jamaican So Burford’s book is United States, and she is even characters in a collection about the old becoming new more furious when her chil- of sketches and songs cov- through storytelling, essential- dren try to do the same. Yet, it ering a wide range of ly a story about stories, told annoyed Lester that Isabel social, cultural and politi- by a gifted storyteller deter- was always badgering him to cal issues. mined to preserve the tradi- “talk good”. Cast members for tional art. That most of the To those outside the “Jamaica 2 Rahtid” stories told by Lester Jenkins, Caribbean culture, that may include Deon Silvera, father of a Jamaican family seem a bit surprising, but Dahlia Harris, Christopher sadly it is true. There are The cast of “Jamaica 2 Rahtid” sound off in protest. which migrated to the United Daley, Christopher States after World War, also many immigrants who would McFarlane and Everaldo staged in North Miami on being presented in South scared the ‘bejeezus’ out of rather be cut off from any Creary. It is directed by Mar. 4, and then plays in Palm Florida by Jamaica those who heard them, mak- links to the region. Speaking Michael Nicholson. Grub Beach the following day. It is Awareness, Inc., and Ridims ing a night time stroll to the “properly”, some will insist Cooper of Fab 5 is responsible then scheduled to head west Marketing Network. For more bedroom a harrowing journey for example, means weeding for the musical component to Tampa on Mar. 11 and information, call 305-891-2944 of self doubt and fear, is out any trace of the regional while Orville Hall choreo- returns to South Florida for a or 305-891-1242. beside the point. twang. graphed the movement for the performance in Coral Springs Yet despite the obstacles musical numbers. on Mar. 12. R WORD OF MOUTH The production will be “Jamaica 2 Rahtid” is Long before Internet (CONTINUED ON PAGE 18)

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18 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2006

www.caribbeantoday.com ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT London drama explores impact of migration ‘Three Generations’ of Bajan art on the lives of families from the Caribbean on show at Diaspora Vibe Gallery LONDON, CMC - A drama sive migration of people from the presentation highlights production exploring the the Caribbean and other the Caribbean heritage and An exhibition of work by sculpture, photography and impact of the migration of countries during the 1950s the courage and bravery of artists who live in Barbados ceramics, will be available for Caribbean nationals on their and 1960s and explores the the early Caribbean pioneers, will be the focus of “Three viewing. families, was scheduled to cultural, emotional and eco- many whom were highly Generations: Barbadians The public viewing of the open last month at the British nomic experiences of leaving skilled professionals who went Contemporary Art”, Museum in London. behind one’s homeland, chil- to work and study in the which opens Feb. 9 Titled “The Ones We Left dren, and traditionally United Kingdom. and runs through Behind”, the production fea- extended families. The production was also the end of March at tures a 30-minute play, a expected to feature a play enti- the Diaspora Vibe monologue and an interactive HERITAGE tled “Homeward Bound”, writ- Gallery in downtown discussion. Jamaican-born Lorna ten by Troy Fairclough and Miami, Florida. Sponsored by the Holder, founder and producer directed by British actor The exhibition, Heritage Lottery Fund, the of Full Spectrum Productions, Eamonn Walker. Fairclough being presented production looks at the exten- that produces the feature, said based his play on a series of by the Barbados workshops led by elders from Investment and the Caribbean community last Development year in London and Nottingham. Corporation (BIDC) ENTERTAINMENT BRIEFS Homeward Bound is set in and the gallery, will • Popular Grenadian artiste dies website where consumers and busi- the departure lounge at showcase a group of Caroline Holder’s “Red Baby” will be on show. Michael DeGale, a popular dramatist, nesses can order directly from one of Heathrow Airport and centers 10 juried artists of dif- drummer and lead actor from Grenada, reggae music’s leading distributors. on a woman’s dilemma over ferent generations died last month. He was 40. The site, www.vpreggae.com, will whether or not she should who work with a wide range art will be complemented by DeGale had been drumming for hold one of the largest archives of return to her native Jamaica to of materials, processes and an array of special events, over 25 years and made tours to reggae on the Internet and offers live out her retirement. Holder ideas. Participating artists scheduled from Thursday England, Jamaica and St. Vincent music in a variety of formats includ- said it was written with a view to include: Natalie Atkins, Virgil through Saturday, including with the National Folk Group, the ing CDs, DVDs, seven-inch vinyl, 12- encouraging cross-generational Broodhagen, Wayne Hinds, gallery walk, meet-the-artist Veni-Way DanceGroup and TUMDA, inch vinyl, VHS cassette, and audio participation, and an interactive Caroline Holder, Juliana talks and slide presentations. whose first major production was cassette. discussion, led by historian and Inniss, Neville Legall, Terrence For more information on entitled “Trouble Down Dey”. broadcaster Alex Pascall, which Piggott, Gail Pounder-Speede, special events, call the gallery Compiled from various sources. was scheduled to take place Leslie Taylor, Kraig Yearwood. at 305-573-4046. • VP Records launches new website after the performance. Some 40 works in varied VP Records has launched a new R media, including painting, R R ‘Irie Jam’ searches for stars in Caribbean music talent pool (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17) ners as well. So far, 85 percent test. I think the caliber of cur- that “it is our turn to take the their music at a professional of the contestants reside in the rent DJs bring down the baton and do what we can on recording studio in New York. decided to give it some struc- New York area, according to music.” this side to make sure that the Distribution is guaranteed, ture and do it as a contest. Clarke. He did add, however, that music moves on.” according to Clarke. “About the quality of the based on the quantity of cul- The next step will be to material we have received, ‘DROUGHT’ tural music made last year and JAMBOREE harness talent from more gen- honestly, I would say 50 per- Asked about his view of some positive music in the Part of the radio station’s res and promote the contest cent of the songs are pretty current Caribbean talent, the dancehall, “the drought is contribution to Caribbean throughout the Caribbean good and 50 percent are pret- radio entrepreneur lamented, hopefully coming to an end. music’s upliftment is through islands. ty bad,” he added. “I think drought is a mild “We will take the lead in its annual reggae concert - Irie “But first, we want to The station will partner word. It is a horrible situation trying to elevate the kind of Jamboree, now in its fourth make sure the structure is with local papers to reach the right now. This is one of the material we think is positive,” year. Held each summer, the strong because from there the Caribbean public and eventu- reasons we are doing the con- the CEO noted. “Some mate- concert has steadily grown sky is the limit,” Clarke said. ally will seek television part- rial promotes violence and a and has included artistes like Check out the station’s certain kind of situation that Sean Paul, Wayne Wonder, website to listen to the contest causes oppression…We are Shabba Ranks, Luciano and entries during the Thursday sending out a warning to those Damian ‘Junior Gong’ Marley. night timeslot. All programs who glorify a certain lifestyle. This annual concert will also are streamed online. We are starting a rebellion be used as a launching pad for Get ready fi buss! against what’s been happen- the contest winners, Clarke ing. We are trying to uplift the said. In addition to being Dawn A. Davis is a freelance music.” heard on the radio station, writer for Caribbean Today. Adding that positive contest winners will perform movement has already started on Irie Jamboree. They will R in Jamaica, Clarke remarked also get a chance to record Telling stories to preserve the culture

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17) “It seemed like us music from the region take Jamaicans carried our customs firm hold in the U.S. And that shared by most immigrants, and lifestyle with us wherever is “scary”, in a good way, and and Lester Jenkins’s family we went”, the narrator says in should make a great story all faced segregation in the “A Jamaican Storyteller’s by itself. American South, it becomes Tale”. obvious that the stories, and How true it is today. • 154 pages other fascinating aspects of Isolated pockets of Caribbean • PUBLISHER: LMH Caribbean culture, are among people in the U.S. have grown Publishing Ltd. the key ingredients that keep to huge communities all over the family tightly knit. Even the country; they are almost Gordon Williams is when the Jenkins family starts impossible to ignore. Now the Caribbean Today’s managing to find the American Dream – tales are often more evident editor. bettering themselves financial- in the lyrics of songs, as reg- ly – they cannot completely let gae, soca and other forms of R go of their roots.

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BUSINESS www.caribbeantoday.com Jamaican entrepreneurs receive Job, business expo targets newspaper’s business award the Caribbean community outh Florida’s Caribbean business partnerships and pro- amaican entrepreneurs job seekers and small fessional employment rela- Catherine and Desmond Sbusiness owners will get tionships in a variety of fields. JMalcolm, of Jerk Machine, to meet representatives of Among the corporations and Incorporated, were among the some of the United States’ government agencies that will four recipients of the Sun- leading companies and gov- be on site at the expo are Sentinel 2005 Excalibur ernment agencies, plus the Miami International Airport, Awards. opportunity to develop part- FedEx, Home Depot, JC The recipients were hon- nerships with Caribbean pro- Penney’s, CVS Pharmacy, ored for outstanding leader- fessionals, during “The 2006 Office Depot, Lowe’s Home ship and community service at Florida Diversity Job and Improvement, Winn Dixie, a ceremony at the Boca Raton Trade Expo” this month in Broward Community College, Resort and Club in Florida Miami. The Florida Lottery, The South last month. The event is scheduled for Florida Water Management The Malcolms were cited 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 9 at The District, Burger King Franchise as outstanding small business James L. Knight Center, 400 Division, Jackson Memorial leaders in Broward County, S.E. Second Ave. Hospital, North Broward along with architect Jorge According to the organiz- Hospital District and Garcia of Garcia Stromberg in ers, representatives of top cor- Enterprise car rental. Palm Beach County. Chief porations and government Admission to the event is Executive Michael Jackson of Entrepreneurs, from left, Desmond and Katherine Malcolm, owners of Jerk Machine, agencies will be actively inter- free. However, reservations Auto Nation, and Patricia Inc.; are congratulated by Marie Gill, president of Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce; viewing Caribbean profession- are required by calling 954- Lebow, of Broad and Cassel, and Ricardo Allicock, Jamaica’s consul general to the southern United States. als and business owners in an 364-6260. were also honored as out- effort to develop lucrative standing corporate leaders in tions in operation and success- opened the first store of the R Broward County and Palm fully market Jamaican delica- now successfully run food fran- Beach County respectively. cies such as jerk chicken and chise. pork, oxtail, curried goat and With a vision for success Tax information exchange keeps PIONEERS other dishes. in the food operation, the Described as pioneers of Both Catherine and Malcolms began bottling their tab on earnings abroad Jamaican jerk-style cuisine in Desmond were born in own “jerk sauce” and a line of in the South Florida area, Jamaica and migrated to natural juices. They plan to LESLIE A. SHARE AND collected tax-related data. Catherine and Desmond Canada in 1977. The idea of launch those products in MICHAEL ROSENBERG Depending upon the Malcolm opened their first food business evolved when supermarkets. Their business TIEA in question, such infor- Jerk Machine restaurant in the Malcolms catered for their acumen has also allowed them he United States has a mation could be used for civil Lauderhill, Fort Lauderdale, wedding in 1982 in Canada. to look into extending the broad network of com- or criminal tax enforcement in 1989. Today, they are own- Then they started a small franchise in other cities Tprehensive income and by a treaty partner. ers of a thriving food franchise catering operation, planning throughout the United States estate and gift tax treaties that and warehouse commissary events for families and other and Canada. include special provisions BENEFITS employing some 65 persons in customers. Having grown tired Jamaica’s Consul General enabling the fiscal authorities Since 1983, special U.S. the South Florida region, and of the long winters they decid- Ricardo Allicock congratulat- of each country to swap tax- tax benefits and concessions boasting annual revenue of $3 ed to move to South Florida ed the couple for their success related information with each have been available to those million . where Desmond combined his as business leaders and also other. of the 29 jurisdictions which culinary expertise with his are eligible under the related They now have eight loca- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 20) However, none of these wife’s business sense and types of treaties have tradi- Caribbean Basin Initiative tionally existed with so-called (CBI) program and which “tax haven” jurisdictions. enter into a TIEA with the In the early 1980s, the United States. The most sig- U.S. Congress and the U.S. nificant of these benefits is the Treasury Department began a ability of a U.S. taxpayer concerted effort to implement attending a convention, semi- more basic and specific tax nar or similar meeting in a information exchange agree- qualifying country to deduct ments (TIEAs) with countries travel expenses. and territories located in the In the 1980s and early Caribbean basin and else- 1990s, the U.S. successfully where. In essence, a bilateral implemented TIEAs with TIEA provides a legal mecha- Barbados, Bermuda, Costa nism for two governments to Rica, Dominica, the Dominican assist each other in the accu- Republic, Grenada, Guyana, rate assessment and collection Honduras, Jamaica, the of income and certain other Marshall Islands, Mexico, Peru, taxes, to prevent fiscal fraud St. Lucia and Trinidad and and evasion, and to develop Tobago (some of which have more sophisticated informa- also entered into more detailed tion sources through sharing (CONTINUED ON PAGE 20)

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www.caribbeantoday.com BUSINESS ‘Caribbean Business Growth’ Miami launches business link website website designed to Florida’s emerging interna- confab set for Jamaica Feb. 16 offer current and tional partners, focusing on Harvard Business School Innovator’s Solution: Creating Apotential partners of exploring trade and business Professor Clay Christensen will and Sustaining Successful Miami direct access to major opportunities, in addition to be the fea- Growth”. markets of the western hemi- cultural and educational tured presen- “Managers today have a sphere, availability to financial exchanges. ter during an problem. They know their services and foreign country The Mayor’s International ‘Innovation: companies must grow. But representation, has been Council was created in 2003 For Caribbean growth is hard, especially launched. by Mayor Manny Díaz to con- Business given today’s economic envi- The City of Miami solidate Miami’s international Growth’ semi- ronment. Managers know Mayor’s International Council programs, including the nar for the innovation is the ticket to suc- recently launched the website International Trade Board region’s busi- cessful growth. But they just to keep with the council’s mis- and the Sister Cities Board. ness leaders can’t seem to get innovation Commissioner Joe Sanchez is Christensen sion to assist and provide sup- set for Feb. 16 right,” he said. port to the city’s international Diaz the current chairman of at the Jamaica The seminar is being organ- Mayor’s International Council. partners, while helping share The website also high- Pegasus Hotel in Kingston. ized by Growth Facilitators and For more information, the vision of Miami as a lights its Sister City relation- The focus of his presenta- Knowledgeworks Consulting as visit www.miamigov.com/imc diverse and vibrant metropolis ships in the hemisphere, as tion will be “Leading the part of their efforts to con- to audiences worldwide. Innovation Process: Delivering tribute to the region’s overall well as initiating some in R Sustainable, Profitable socio-economic, political and Growth”. cultural progress by exposing Prof. Christensen is the the public to world class leader- BUSINESS BRIEFS author of “The Innovators ship strategies. Dilemma” and “The • Business grants available Exchange (ECSE) says 2005, its supporting robust job growth and R Miami-Dade County Commissioner fourth full year of operations, reducing the unemployment rate to Carlos A. Gimenez has announced turned out to be a year of success- historical lows, the Central Bank of Tax information exchange keeps the availability of grants for busi- es, with the market outperforming Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT) said. nesses located in District 7 through all other regional markets in terms In a review of the economy, the Mom & Pop Small Business of returns to investors. CBTT said that the growth was led tab on earnings abroad Grant Program. The application An ECSE report said that the by the energy sector and that non- (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19) ly in force. For example, the deadline for the grants is Feb. 10. total overall return to investors was energy growth of four percent, led U.S.-Bahamas TIEA became The Mom & Pop Small 15.5 percent, surpassing the by construction and marketing, also other tax treaties with the effective with respect to crimi- Business Grant Program is one of returns available on any other contributed to the good economic United States). However, the nal tax matters as of Jan. 1, several economic development regional markets or on any other performance. U.S. remained interested in 2004, and as of Jan. 1, 2006 it projects administered by Miami- traded or non-traded publicly avail- obtaining such agreements with also applies to civil tax matters. Dade County’s Office of Community able financial asset class. • Finance minister outlines what it considered to be the As of the latter date, The and Economic Development in con- economic reforms most “hard core” bank secrecy Bahamas correspondingly junction with the Neighbors and • Consultant wants regional Grenada’s economy needs to grow countries in an attempt to force became eligible for the related Neighbors Association. Grant banking regulatory body by at least four percent over the them to provide tax-related CBI tax deduction benefits. awardees in District 7 are eligible Faye Jacobs, the executive director next three years if poverty and information when requested by Investors should also be aware to receive up to $10,000 for the of Caribbean Integrated Financial unemployment is to be reduced, the Internal Revenue Service. that in addition to the U.S. purchase of supplies, equipment, Services Limited (CIFS), says according to Finance Minister TIEA, the Cayman Islands is marketing and advertising services, Caribbean countries should consid- Anthony Boatswain. RESULTS reportedly negotiating TIEAs or otherwise improve or expand er establishing a regulatory bank- Boatswain said last month that These concerted efforts with at least eight other major their businesses. They also ing body for the region. the private sector must take the have now paid off, as a num- industrialized countries in an receive technical assistance with She said one of the benefits of lead in economic development with ber of the main offshore attempt to obtain various business plans, financial planning the Caribbean community (CARI- the government putting in place the financial countries (surprising- financial benefits. and other business-related tools. COM) Single Market, could be the appropriate policies for strengthen- ly to some) have now, in The U.S. TIEA network For more information, contact introduction of the regional regula- ing the business environment in effect, capitulated and have will undoubtedly continue to Commissioner Carlos Gimenez’s tory body, separate from a regula- the country. agreed to become part of the expand in the future as former office at 305-375-5680 or tory organization for the financial U.S. TIEA network. offshore bastions of secrecy Neighbors and Neighbors services sector. Compiled from CMC and other In this regard, since 2001, continue to do what is neces- Association at 305-756-0605. sources. the U.S. has signed new TIEAs sary to avoid fiscal blacklisting. • T&T’s economy grows by with Antigua and Barbuda, • 2005 a good year for seven percent in 2005 R Aruba, The Bahamas, the Leslie A. Share and Michael securities market The Trinidad and Tobago economy British Virgin Islands, the Rosenberg are shareholders The Eastern Caribbean Securities grew by seven percent last year, Cayman Islands, Colombia, with the Coral Gables law Guernsey, the Isle of Man, firm of Packman, Neuwahl & Jersey, and the Netherlands Rosenberg, and can be Antilles. The agreements with reached at 305-665-3311. Jamaican entrepreneurs receive Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba and The Bahamas are present- R newspaper’s business award (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19) organizations, making contri- through their daily newspaper butions to charitable, civic and in Broward and Palm Beach commended them for raising educational projects. counties. the standard of excellence in In 1998, they established a As business partners, they the Jamaican community. non-profit organization, “It both spoke of their pride and Their success is an inspiration Takes a Village”, working with enthusiasm as they imparted for other Jamaicans as they at-risk youth ages 14 to 22 Jamaica’s heritage and culture continue to make a positive years. Through this endeavor, to the South Florida community. impact in our community, he they have created educational Mrs. Malcolm was also added. opportunities emphasizing the recipient of the Caribbean arts and technical skills, and a Business Women of the Year GIVING BACK job-training program providing 2000 Award from the National Catherine and Desmond training and placement services. Association of Caribbean Malcolm have remained com- In accepting the award, Business Women in South mitted to their roots as they the Malcolms expressed Florida. continue to give back to the appreciation to the Sun Jamaican and the broader Sentinel for setting the exam- - JIS South Florida community. ple of encouraging community They have overwhelmingly involvement and leadership R supported several community

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HEALTH www.caribbeantoday.com International experts warn Caribbean could be hit by bird flu WASHINGTON, CMC – A the risk of avian flu in the oped a Pandemic Risk Then there panel of health experts at an Caribbean and Latin America Index are the risks to the Inter-American Development to be relatively low, since that ranks 161 coun- region’s poultry Bank (IDB) conference in birds flying south from the tries. In that study, products industry, Washington has warned that U.S. are not believed to inter- seven countries in the which produces the avian influenza virus could mingle with birds heading to Caribbean and Central $18.5 billion in affect the Caribbean and Latin America from Siberia, where America are consid- poultry and $5 bil- America. one of the latest outbreaks ered at extremely high lion in eggs annual- The experts, from the occurred among birds, not or high risk, including ly, according to IDB, the Pan American humans. But they warned that Haiti, Barbados, PAHO’s Dr. Health Organization (PAHO), the current perception of low Grenada, Jamaica, Cristina Shneider. the World Bank and the risk could change, given Dominican Republic, Poultry accounts United States’ Agency for the presence of the H5N1 Guatemala, El for 40 percent of International Development strain of the virus in the Salvador. the protein con- (USAID), concluded that Canadian waterfowl. PAHO’s Dr. Oscar sumed in the given the trends in the virus’s “Many countries in the Mujica estimates that Caribbean and behavior, there is a strong risk region are vulnerable to global if a moderate flu pan- Latin America. that human-to-human trans- pandemics because their epi- demic infected 25 per- Each person in the mission could occur, creating demiological surveillance sys- cent of the Caribbean region consumes 25 the possibility of a pandemic tems are weak, especially for and Latin American kg of poultry and situation. animal surveillance,” said IDB population, more than 2.5 kg of eggs Some officials at WHO health specialist André Medici. 334,000 people would annually. say that the risk of a pandemic die over the course of On a world- is not a question of “if” but RISK RANK the first eight weeks. If wide scale, a global “when.” The British consulting the pandemic were flu network has Influenza experts consider firm Maplecroft has devel- severe, the number of been established, deaths could rise to 2.4 led by the U.S., million. Australia, the HEALTH BRIEFS But health is not United Kingdom the only factor to con- and Japan, to work • Flu shots for Florida’s seniors Belize authorities have condemned sider, though. An toward avian Florida residents who are age 65 the decision by employers to avian influenza pan- influenza preven- and older can received flu vaccines require workers to undergo testing demic could also have tion and monitor- through the Senior Immunization for HIV/AIDS. significant economic ing. As part of the Project, a partnership of the The National AIDS Commission consequences for the global network, 113 reminded citizens that the govern- Health Foundation of South Florida region. his estimates are only illustra- National Influenza ment had late last year “adopted and Health Choice Network. “Over 515 million work tive and not meant to be Centers (NICs) have been both the National and Workplace Vaccines are free for unin- days could be lost if a moder- taken as absolute predictions. established worldwide, of HIV/AIDS Policies which promote a sured seniors. For the nearest ate pandemic hit the region; a “The direct costs for this lost which 25 are located in the human rights and responsibilities clinic location and schedule, call severe pandemic could time could be US$15 billion in Caribbean and Latin America. perspective regarding the epidemic”. the project’s hotline at 1-866-NO- increase that number to the former case, or US$21 bil- TO-FLU (1-866-668-6358). almost 730 million,” lion in the latter.” R Compiled from CMC and other Dr. Mujica said, noting that • Belize condemns HIV/AIDS sources. discrimination by employers R

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www.caribbeantoday.com SPORT Jamaicans set for ‘Hard Rock’ title fight No ‘looking back’ as West Indies

GORDON WILLIAMS once and won, a result which Johnson admitted. seeks return to form against N.Z. gave him his initial hold on “Right now Hall is our oxing’s “Road Warrior” the IBF belt. focus,” Foster added. GORDON WILLIAMS “The reality is, those guys (the and “The Destroyer” “I could sit around and Both fighters left Jamaica Aussies) are tough, they’re Bwanted to come home wait for June (the deadline for as young adults and started he West Indies cricket professional. to settle a score. Instead boxing at a relatively team will be in New We’re send- Jamaican-born ex-light advanced age – Hall at 19, TZealand this month try- ing young heavyweight champion Johnson about a year later. ing to bounce back from a dis- guys who are Glen Johnson and They retain strong ties to astrous Test series against ill prepared, Richard Hall will have to Jamaica. That, according to Australia in its last outing. in a sense, take care of pressing busi- Foster, made Jamaica a logical But according to the West against them. ness at their home away place to stage the bout. Yet Indies Cricket Board (WICB) And they will from home this month. Jamaica made no solid offers, hierarchy, the team should not do well occa- While Jamaica, according to the manager, and be focused on its prolonged sionally, but according to Johnson’s that proposal fizzled. poor form, but instead turn to Gordon the consisten- manager Henry Foster, “I wish this fight was in improving in the future, cy has to could not be convinced to Jamaica,” he said. “But we although success may not come out of that innate tough- stage a bout between his couldn’t get an interest.” come immedi- ness, which we have to go fighter, the former The Florida-based ately. about building.” International Boxing Warrior’s Promotions, which is What we With that approach, putting on the bout at the Gordon believes the team can Federation (IBF) light Johnson have to do is heavyweight king, and Hard Rock, is stop looking turn its fortunes around in Hall, South Florida, hoping that the back,” WICB time for next year’s showpiece where both fighters Feb. 24 match-up President Ken event to be hosted by the are currently based, featuring different Gordon told Caribbean for the first time. has gladly accepted boxing styles will Caribbean “We have the time to do them. pull fight fans, Today in an it if we work assiduously from Johnson will fight especially those Chanderpaul interview at now ‘til the World Cup,” he Hall on Feb. 24th at Jamaicans living in the end of the said. the Seminole Hard the area. More Australian tour in November. Rock Hotel in than 300,000 “Let’s understand what LARA IN, OUT Hollywood for the Jamaicans are esti- has happened, put it into per- The month-and-a-half- vacant International mated to reside in spective and decide from here tour to New Zealand, sched- Boxing Association South Florida. on let’s get the essentials right. uled to begin Feb. 16 with a (IBA) title. “Hall is a big There is no quick fix to our Twenty/20 game at Eden Park, For Johnson, who puncher, Glen is a problems.” Auckland and end after the has been in ring bat- great boxer, not a There are no “serious” final Test at McLean Park, tles all over the world big puncher,” said discipline problems related to Napier on Mar. 29, will fea- Leon Margules, ture five one-day internation- to earn his “Road Hall, right the current crop of West Warrior” nickname, Warrior’s Indies players, Gordon said. als and three Tests. the fight will be the Promotions’ exec- However, although talented, The Caribbean team has Miami resident’s first bout in Woods to make the fight with utive director. “Both guys are they must develop a more pro- selected two squads to com- South Florida for 10 years, him or risk being stripped of action fighters. It’s gonna be a fessional approach to pete in the Test and one-day according to Foster. It also his IBF crown). But I have to war. Styles make fights. These the game, similiar to the series. Brian Lara’s request to offers an opportunity to stay stay busy.” guys don’t run.” Australians, who are now be left out of the one-day sharp for his mandatory chal- That does not mean Even if they tried, they rated the best cricketers in the squad, in a hope of prolonging lenge against current IBF title- Johnson is looking beyond couldn’t get far anyway, world. Without that approach, his Test career, has been grant- holder Clinton Woods of “The Destroyer” Hall, a because they are right at he added, the Caribbean crick- ed by the West Indies selec- Britain, the belt he really power puncher with 25 knock- home…or close enough. eters may continue to show tors. Lara holds the record for wants. outs in 27 wins, coupled with flashes of brilliance, but not the most runs scored by a bats- “It’s just keeping in tune,” five losses, who has gone toe- Gordon Williams is consistent team excellence. man in Test cricket – 11,204 – said Johnson, who has a ring to-toe with the likes of former Caribbean Today’s managing “We’re gonna try and a feat he accomplished on the record of 43 wins, 10 losses American great Roy Jones Jr., editor. we’re gonna do the best and tour of Australia, passing the and two draws. In two fights who Johnson knocked out. we’re gonna hold up a bold mark set by the Aussie Allan with Woods he has drawn “Hall is a tough guy,” R front,” Gordon explained. Border. Both squads will be led by Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who was at the helm when the West Indies was beaten 3-0 by Australia in a Test series late last year. The full one-day squad is: Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Chris Gayle, Daren Ganga, Runako Morton, Dwayne Bravo, Dwayne Smith, Denesh Ramdin, Jerome Taylor, Ian Bradshaw, Rawl Lewis, Fidel Edwards, Deighton Butler and Wavell Hinds. The Test squad includes: Chanderpaul, Sarwan, Gayle, Lara, Ganga, Morton, Bravo, Smith, Ramdin, Taylor, Bradshaw, Lewis, Edwards, Daren Powell and Devon Smith.

Gordon Williams is Caribbean Today’s managing editor. R

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POLITICS www.caribbeantoday.com PNP to elect a new leader to replace P.J.Patterson on Feb. 25 KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC - Peter Phillips and People’s National Party.” vote in respect of the succes- they have the baton in their The ruling People’s National former Government Minister sion of my fourth leader,” he hand I say go Party (PNP) said it would Dr. Karl Blythe. NO VOTE said. successor go,” elect a new leader on Feb. 25 In an address to a special Patterson, who joined the “I want to stay in a posi- Patterson to succeed meeting of the National PNP in 1958, served as prime tion that said. outgoing Executive Council (NEC) last minister for 14 years following between the Patterson leader and month, Patterson outlined the the death of Michael Manley time of the appealed for Prime timetable for his departure in 1996. He is the longest serv- election and unity as the Minister, P.J. form active ing head of government in this when I finally campaign to Patterson. politics. He country, surpassing Alexander hand over the replace him The new said whoever Bustamante, Donald Sangster, baton, I don’t intensifies, leader will be is elected to Hugh Shearer, Edward Seaga want the per- warning the Simpson chosen at a succeed him and Manley. son to get just contenders special con- would Patterson said, like former a little tip of and the members of their ference, Phillips “before the presidents of the PNP, he the baton, Blythe campaign teams that they where nearly end of this would not be casting any bal- because it must ensure that the PNP 4,000 dele- legislative lot in the upcoming leadership might drop, I want to make remained united. gates are expected to elect the year, which is race. sure that the person has the new leader from a field of the 31st of Davies “Thank God Norman baton in their hand, and when R four candidates, namely Local March, would Manley did not vote in the Government Minister Portia have already taken the election for his second leader. Simpson Miller, Finance oath of office of prime minis- Michael Manley did not vote Minister, Dr. Omar Davies, ter of Jamaica and assume the in the election for his third National Security Minister Dr. reigns of leadership of the leader and I am not going to Opposition parties call off merger in St. Lucia CASTRIES, St. Lucia CMC - Sir John and d’Auvergne agreement called for A plan for the merger of two recently confirmed that they d’Auvergne and willing mem- Opposition parties to contest had put a seal on a tentative bers of his party to join as elections this year has been agreement for a merger ordinary members and oper- called off. between the two parties, but ate under the UWP symbol, The torpedoed pact has that was color and name. In return, the also led to a call for the resig- rejected by NDM leader wanted a guaran- nation of Sir John Compton as the UWP tee to be the endorsed candi- leader of the main United executive. date for Dennery North, one Workers Party (UWP). “Sir John, of his members to be given “As far as we gather the as leader of the green light to run for issue has essentially to do with one organiza- Vieux Fort North, and that the NDM asking for conces- tion having three NDM members would sions. We have come a long entered into be allowed to vie for selection way and tried to bring about a an initialed as candidates for Castries merger agreement Compton South east, Babonneau and because we believe this is the with another, Soufriere. only way in which the if he cannot get past his exec- d’Auvergne, who has long Opposition could be success- utive, should resign,” expressed his interest in form- ful at the elections,” said d’Auvergne added. ing an alliance with the UWP, Ausbert d’Auvergne, leader appeared bitter over the rejec- of the small New Democratic TERMS tion and said there would now Movement (NDM). One of the terms of the be no merger as his party would not entertain any fur- ther discussions with the UWP, and would contest the POLITICS BRIEFS election on its own. • EOJ to oversee PNP elections mer Prime Minister Sir John Compton. The Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) R will supervise the election of a succes- • General secretary of Dominica’s sor to the leader of the ruling People’s ruling party resigns National Party (PNP) and Prime Dr. William “Para” Riviere, general Minister P.J. Patterson. secretary of the ruling Dominica FINALLY! FINALLY! FINALLY! PNP General Secretary Burchell Labour Party (DLP), last month caribbeantoday.com IS HERE!!! Whiteman said the EOJ would be resigned, claiming that the party had called in to supervise the PNP’s special abandoned the ideals and principles NOW YOU CAN PLACE UNLIMITED CLASSIFIEDS WITH PHOTOS on delegates conference on Feb. 25. of its founding fathers. In a letter to the party’s Vice caribbeantoday.com! • Lewis not contesting St. Lucia President Cecil Joseph and copied by-election to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, YES! YES! YES! Former Prime Minister Dr. Vaughan Lewis Riviere said that senior members of FOR JUST $24.00 A YEAR! THAT’S RIGHT, JUST $24.00 A YEAR! says he will not be contesting the upcom- the organization had been seeking to ing by-election in St. Lucia on a ticket of frustrate his attempts to carry tasks YOU CAN PLACE UNLIMITED CLASSIFIED ADS!!! the main Opposition United Workers Party associated with his position in • REALTORS & MORTGAGE BROKERS • AUTO SALESMEN (UWP). the party. Lewis, a lecturer at the St. • EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES • PROPERTY DEVELOPERS Augustine campus of the University of • Mascoll jumps to BLP • RETAILERS AND WHOLESALERS ...EVERYONE WITH A BUSINESS! the West Indies (UWI), told the Former Opposition Leader Clyde Mascoll Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) last has joined the governing Barbados You must check it out! month that he had decided not to con- Labour Party. Visit us at caribbeantoday.com or call 1-800-605-7516 test the general election that political observers in St. Lucia say would most Compiled from CMC and other Sounds Good and its True! likely be held before year-end. He said sources. he had communicated his position to the party, now headed by another for- R .com Caribbean Today, Consistently Credible

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www.caribbeantoday.com POLITICS St. Lucians get ready for a general elections preview ERNIE SEON public spat with Prime While there is the likeli- “We cannot afford to put tive which indicated his inten- Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony hood of four political parties the country in that kind of tions,” a UWP spokesman CASTRIES, St. Lucia - There and his administration over contesting the by-election, expense when a general elec- confirmed. are mixed feelings as to plans to allow political observers predicted it tions is due months later, it The UWP gave Lewis a whether the recent decision abortion would be a straight fight makes no sense, and clearly written ultimatum to declare of Sarah Flood-Beaubrun to under certain between the incumbent St. Flood-Beaubrun’s resignation himself available to contest resign from the St. Lucia conditions led Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and is not in the interest of her the seat. Lewis subsequently Parliament was indeed a to her dis- the main Opposition United constituents, but solely intend- withdrew from the race last brilliant political strategy. missal from Workers Party (UWP) and ed to big her up,” he added. month. But whatever her reasons, the govern- would also provide answers to But Lewis, who was The SLP last month the sudden resignation as rep- ment last the political future of former named by the announced the names of the resentative for the Central year, submit- Prime Minister Dr. Vaughan UWP Leader five new candidates to contest ted her resig- Lewis, over whom there has Sir John the general elections, but Castries constituency, has pre- Flood-Beaubrun sented an interesting side nation saying been lingering questions as to Compton as there was no mention of a show to the campaign ahead that her small his political affiliation. its candidate, candidate for the by-election. of a general elections that Organisation for National Lewis, who won the did not give The party appears split on a some observers say might be Empowerment (ONE) party Central Castries seat in a the party the possible candidate. Attorney called before yearend. was being sidelined over the 1996 by-election when the green light Petra Nelson appears to be “It is my belief that the ongoing house-to-house enu- long standing incumbent, regarding his the leading contender from resignation has without a meration exercise. She took Sir William George Mallet availability to among a field that includes doubt caused some ripples the matter to court and lost retired, had criticized Flood- contest the Anthony the incumbent Attorney and panic both for the and the resignation on Jan. 4 Beaubrun’s resignation, saying by-election. General Phillip La Corbiniere, ruling party and the main paves the way for a by-elec- the financial cost involved in a “While Dr. Lewis indicat- but she faces strong opposi- Opposition”, wrote newspaper tion within 90 days that inter- by-election could be as high as ed his interest in contesting tion, including the party’s columnist Denys Springer. estingly she says she will also EC$200,000 ($74,074). He said the seat in his statements to Chairman Thomas Walcott, Flood-Beaubrun, the for- contest. she was only interested in the media, there was nothing who insiders say are opposed mer health minister whose boosting her ego. from him to the party execu- to her candidacy. A similar situation faces businessman Peterson Francis, who last month threatened to run as an independent- Labour candi- date if he was overlooked by the SLP. Lewis “My interest in contesting the seat was formally made known to the party long before the other contenders. I have reached the stage where if I have to run as an independ- ent, independent Labour I will,” he told reporters. For her part, Flood- Beaubrun has been making the media rounds explaining her decision of giving up the seat she first won in the SLP landslide of 1997, and which she retained when the con- stituency was expanded to ensure the defeat of Lewis, her rival, who contested the Dec. 2001 polls on behalf of the UWP. “If the people of Central Castries re-elect me that will be saying to the prime minis- ter and government that I was unfairly treated in Parliament when my party was denied scrutineers as part of the Elections Act. Standing up for what is right can never be a waste of time,” she told con- stituents at an indoor meeting last month. As the campaigning heats up, the UWP has turned down a request from prime minister to stage a number of public debates.

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REGION www.caribbeantoday.com Single market will transform America’s mixed signals helped tilt Haiti towards chaos ~ U.S. envoy NEW YORK, CMC – A for- Institute (IRI), a democracy- from power. the Caribbean ~ Carrington mer United States ambassador building group close to the His account is supported to Haiti has charged that mixed White House, in crucial parts by other diplo- GEORGETOWN, Guyana, hood of the Caribbean dias- signals from Washington of trying to mats and Opposition figures CMC - The formal launch of pora returning to utilize their helped tilt Haiti towards chaos. undermine many of whom spoke publicly the CARICOM Single skills and the retention of uni- Brian Dean Curry, who the reconcili- about the events for the first Market (CSM) late last versity graduates within the month signals a new begin- region. was ambassador up to the wan- ation process time. ning for the Caribbean, General Counsel of the ing days of the presidency of after disputed Curran, a 30-year foreign according to Secretary CARICOM Secretariat Dr. Jean-Bertrand Aristide, said in 2000 Senate service veteran and a former General Edwin Carrington. Winston Anderson said that a published report here that the elections President Bill Clinton A document to officially the Revised Treaty defined U.S.’s action did not always threw Haiti appointee retained by launch the CSM, the first the legal framework within match its words. He told the into a violent President George W. Bush, component which nationals of the Single New York Times newspaper political cri- also accused Lucas of telling of the Market participating coun- that the U.S. often spoke with Aristide sis. He the Opposition that he, not the CARI- tries must operate, including two contradictory voices in a charged that ambassador, represented the COM the Right of Establishment country where its words carry the group’s Bush administration’s true Single under which entrepreneurs enormous weight. Consequently, leader in Haiti, Stanley Lucas, intentions. Market might acquire land, not for Curry said, the mixed message an avowed Aristide opponent He said he had warned his and speculation, but exclusively made efforts to foster political from the Haitian elite, coun- bosses in Washington that Economy for the establishment of their peace “immeasurably more selled the Opposition to stand Lucas’s behavior was contrary (CSME), businesses. difficult.” firm and not to work with to American policy. was signed “There are significant Curry accused the Aristide, as a way to cripple during a safeguards provided for in our International Republican his government and drive him R Jan. 30 cer- Corbin treaty arrangements which emony held at CARICOM nationals apply to move freely in T&T the Mona campus of the “I believe that CARICOM has PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - six-month stay from the time university graduates, artistes, University of the West Indies reached a stage where we Thousands of Caribbean com- of entry into a member state. musicians, sportspersons, (UWI) in Jamaica. can really embark on a road munity (CARICOM) profes- The single market compo- media workers and man- Carrington described the to economic development” - sionals applied last month to the nent of the CSME came into agers/technical and superviso- launch as an historic and Robert Corbin region’s Single Market and operation on Jan. 1, 2006 with ry staff attached to a company. unprecedented step in the Economy (CSME) Unit here six member states. The other Trinidad and Tobago is regional integration process, for certification to allow them to members of the 15-member also expected to bring on and a new dimension that will would make sure that comply- move freely for work and busi- regional grouping are expect- stream its CARICOM change the way the people of ing with this obligation does ness purposes in the country. ed to come on board some- machine-readable passports the region live and work. He not cause any difficulty or Early statistics here showed time during the course of the by Mar. 2006, after Grenada said the CSM, which allows problem in our OECS that more Jamaicans have been year. and Suriname. for the free movement of Member States,” he said. approved for free movement in As it stands, only six cate- goods, service, skills and labor Trinidad and Tobago than any gories of workers have been - Compiled from CMC across the region, would CRITICAL ROLE other nationals. cleared for free movement report. “transform, safeguard and Former Dean of the CARI- The certificate allows for a within the region. They are advance the future of our COM Youth Ambassadors R region and its people in this Programme, Valerie Lalji said globalized world.” that youths had a critical role to At the start of 2006, play in the CSM and that they Barbados, Belize, Guyana, needed to educate themselves Jamaica, Suriname and on the issue on order to enjoy Trinidad and Tobago became the full benefits of the regional the first CARICOM countries initiative. to enter into the CSM, with President of the the other member states Caribbean Congress of expected to sign on to the Labour (CCL) Lincoln Lewis accord by Mar. 31. viewed the CSM as “a process of attacking poverty in the NOT YET IN Caribbean,” which he noted The Bahamas, which has required regional participa- said it would not participate in tion from both a political and the CSME, and Haiti, which cultural position. has not been invited to partici- “We believe that where pate in CARICOM activities there is trade there must be following the controversial an economy to sustain that departure of its elected trade,” he added. President Jean-Bertrand Meanwhile, Robert Aristide in 2004, are among Corbin, leader of the three CARICOM states that Parliamentary Opposition of did not sign the CSM agree- Guyana and a member of the ment. Committee of Heads of A CARICOM Secretariat Government and Leaders of statement last month said: Parliamentary Opposition, “Haiti has not completed its said CARICOM heads of gov- accession to the Revised Treaty ernment must be applauded of Chaguaramas and is there- for staying the course started fore not a participant in the by the founding fathers of Single Market”. It said regional integration. Montserrat, a British depend- “I believe that CARI- ency, is awaiting the necessary COM has reached a stage instrument of entrustment where we can really embark from the United Kingdom gov- on a road to economic devel- ernment in order to participate. opment,” he said, adding that While acknowledging that the CSM represented an there would be challenges important step for along the way, Carrington was CARICOM’s survival in a optimistic about the future of globalized world. the CSM, noting the likeli- R

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www.caribbeantoday.com REGION Focus on energy in Former Miss Universe embroiled in new Barbados budget T&T controversy over her pregnancy BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, for the key tourism industry. PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, her pregnancy. for her while speaking at the CMC – Prime Minister Owen Additionally, householders CMC - Former Miss Universe school as part of the Trinidad Arthur last month presented a will be able to claim up to Wendy Fitzwilliam, who chose GUIDELINES Guardian/Education Ministry near two billion Barbados dol- Bds$2,000 annually in income to announce her pregnancy at On Jan. 27, the Catholic series “Making a Difference”. lars (one Barbadian dollar tax allowances for energy con- a Catholic school here last Education Board of The series is aimed at having equals 50 United States cents) servation programs. month, has become the center Management jumped into the local role models visit schools budget in Parliament, in which To further reduce the of a raging controversy over controversy in a bid to stop throughout the country to there was a focus on energy country’s energy bill, he said her decision to do so. meet and talk with the stu- conservation measures. Cabinet has given the green Fitzwilliam won the Miss dents. The finance minister, who light to the Barbados Universe title in 1998 and has Fitzwilliam, shortly after is projecting a deficit of 1.7 Agricultural Management been a goodwill ambassador winning the coveted Miss percent of the gross domestic Company to establish a fuel for the United Nations as well Universe title, was asked then product (GDP), outlined a cane generation plant by as a frontline voice for what was the most important number of measures aimed at 2008. HIV/AIDS in the world. But message or lesson someone in drastically effecting savings to The finance minister also the unmarried 33-year-old her position could convey. She the island’s energy bill, which used his statement of econom- beauty queen, a lawyer by answered: “I recognize that stood at over ic and financial statement to profession, stunned this unique position allows me Bds$350 mil- announce changes to the Trinidadians when she chose the platform from which I can lion in 2005. exchange control regime, to announce her pregnancy at obtain people’s regard. During including new provisions for a top Catholic girls school, Though I do not have one a two-hour foreign currency accounts held Corpus Christi College in important message or lesson presentation by Caribbean community Diego Martin. to convey, one lesson I have in the House, (CARICOM) nationals. He Following her announce- T&T’s Wendy Fitzwilliam winning Miss learned is to teach good val- Arthur said Barbados residents and ment, the top model, known Universe in 1998. ues by your example.” announced CARICOM nationals resident for her love for the social Now she is being criti- a national in Barbados, who earn foreign Arthur lifestyle, has been criticized by such problems from occurring cized by many here for not energy conser- exchange, may hold up to many, including the Education in the future. The board is to teaching those good values. vation pro- $20,000 in their foreign cur- Minister Hazel Manning and a release a handbook entitled Fitzwilliam is vice presi- gram, which advocates the rency accounts without former President of the “Guidelines for speakers at dent/general manager, busi- increased use of diesel and exchange control permission. Republic of Trinidad and Catholic schools”. ness development, at Evolving reduced dependence on gaso- For limits in excess of the Tobago Sir Ellis Clarke. Fitzwilliam revealed that TecKnologies and Enterprise line on the nation’s roads. At amount, exchange control per- Manning said it was “most she was expecting her first Development Company Ltd. present, the minimum rate of mission is necessary. unfortunate” for her to child and that marriage was excise tax of 46.9 percent is address the students about not in the foreseeable future R applied to gasoline vehicles R with an engine size under 16000ccs and a chargeable value of under Bds$45,000. REGION BRIEFS Arthur said the same would • Haiti extends invitation to take place either before or after the issue with Prime Minister Patrick senting, Antigua and Barbuda, be applied to diesel vehicles. CARICOM former French colony hold presiden- Manning when the crime talks Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts/Nevis, Effective Sept. 2006, all Haiti’s interim Prime Minister Gerard tial elections on Feb. 7. between the government and the Saint Lucia, and St. Vincent and the taxi operators and operators Latortue last month extended an invi- Opposition resume. Grenadines assured CARICOM’s of vehicles for approved tation to the Caribbean community • T&T’s Opposition party calls Council for Trade and Economic tourism ventures, desirous of (CARICOM) to send a fact finding mis- • OECS countries to join single Development (COTED) at its 20th accessing duty free conces- for inquiry sion to his country, as Port au Prince The main Opposition United National market by March Meeting held in Georgetown, Guyana sions, can only do so by pur- on (Jan. 12) that all would be ready by chasing diesel oil vehicles in renewed efforts to re-join the regional Congress (UNC) last month called for The Caribbean community (CARICOM) grouping following the controversial a public inquiry into allegations that Secretariat last month announced that the set date”, according to a statement the future, the finance minis- issued by the CARICOM Secretariat. ter said. departure of its elected leader, Jean officials of the ruling People’s six countries within the Organization Bertrand Aristide in Feb. 2004. National Movement (PNM) were of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Latortue spoke with Trinidad and behind a plot to frame two Opposition had agreed to complete all arrange- Compiled from CMC and other ENERGY AUDIT sources. He also announced the Tobago’s Prime Minister Patrick legislators nearly four years ago. ments and join the CARICOM Single creation of a Bds$10 million Manning, in his capacity as CARICOM UNC Chairman Basdeo Panday Market (CSM) on Mar. 31. energy audit and retrofit fund chairman, and said the visit could told reporters he would discuss the “The Ministers and officials repre- R

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FYI www.caribbeantoday.com include a “Singles’ booth” Admission to the park is The Lockbox is a process- cessing appointment at an with baked goods and coffee, $1 per person, free for chil- ing facility used by USCIS to ASC and will submit their free digital safety identifica- dren ages five and under. accelerate the collection of initial evidence during that tion cards for newly adopted Tree Tops Park is located at applications and petitions. appointment. pets, a “pooch smooch” and a 3900 S.W. 100th Ave. For more The announced change allows Applicants will receive professional dog trainer offer- information, call 954-519-1222. the agency to improve the their biometrics appointment ing advice and training tips. PASSPORTS processing of Form I-90 in the mail. The National Passport (Application to Replace FREE FAMILY DAY Information Center (NPIC), Permanent Resident Card) by PARENTS NIGHT OUT MANLEY LECTURE “Friendship Pins” will be the the United States Department electronically capturing data The Art and Culture Center Professor Rex Nettleford will theme of next month’s Family of State’s single, centralized and images and by performing of Hollywood, Florida will be the main presenter at the Day presented by The Art public contact center for U.S. fee receipting and depositing hold “Parents Night Out” second annual Michael Manley and Culture Center of passport information, is offer- from one central location, events on Mar. 10 and May 12. Memorial Lecture to be held Hollywood, Florida. ing a toll free service and has rather than at the local district “Parents Night Out is a on Feb. 10 at the Steele During the Feb. 19 event, expanded its service availabili- office, service center, or appli- chance for parents to have an Auditorium, Nova Southeastern children can create unique ty/options. cation support center (ASC). evening out on the town alone University, 3200 S. University and personal friendship pins Persons with questions or Aliens filing a Form I-90, while their children ages four Drive in Davie, Florida. using colorful beads. Supplies need status checks on pending regardless of their state of resi- to 12 create art, participate in A reception begins at will be made available on a passport applications can call 1- dence, must mail those appli- creative movement activities, 6 p.m. with the main lecture first-come, first-served basis. 877-487-2778. Customer service cations with an application fee play games, eat and watch set for 7 p.m. The lecture is It is scheduled to run from representatives are available of $185 and a biometrics fee movies at the center, 1650 being presented by Jamaica 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in its upstairs from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday of $70 to one of the following Harrison Street. Awareness Inc. in association gallery, 1650 Harrison St. through Friday, excluding addresses: During the event, parents with There will be free admis- Federal holidays. Automated For U.S. Postal Service will drop their children off at Jamaican Diaspora sion to the center’s galleries. information is available 24 (USPS) deliveries: 6 p.m. and pick them up at Foundation. For more information, call hours a day, seven days a week. • U.S. Citizenship and 10 p.m. Admission is free. For 954-921-3274. For e-mail access, visit: Immigration Services, P.O. “Masquerade Night” is more information, call 305- [email protected] Website of Box 54870 Los Angeles, CA the theme of March’s event, so 891-2944. WATER MATTERS passport and other interna- 90054-0870; children should come dressed Broward County in Florida tional travel information is Or for non-USPS deliver- as a secret identity. For May’s ADOPT A PET will host its fourth annual available at travel.state.gov ies (e.g. private couriers): event, which will be a “Luau The Miami-Dade Animal “Water Matters Day” 9 a.m. • U.S. Citizenship and Party”, children should wear Services Department will hold to 3 p.m. Mar. 11 at Tree Tops Immigration Services, luau attire. a “Open Your Heart and Your NEW ‘GREEN CARD’ Park in Davie. Attention: I-90, 16420 Valley Each event costs $15 per Home Adoption Awareness FILING The public is invited to the The United States View Ave., La Mirada, CA child for center members or Event” on from 5 p.m. to 9 environmental education event, Citizenship and Immigration 90638 $20 per child for non-mem- p.m. Feb. 11 at the Animal which focuses on water conser- Services (USCIS) has Applicants should not bers. For more information Services Shelter, 7401 N.W. vation and personal steward- announced that aliens must include initial evidence and and reservations, please call 74 St. in Miami. ship. The day will include live mail applications to renew or supporting documentation 954- 921-3274. More informa- The event will offfer the music, educational workshops replace permanent resident when submitting the Form I-90 tion about the center is avail- opportunity for persons to and booths, tree and plant give- cards, commonly known as to the Los Angeles Lockbox. able at www.artandculture- adopt one of the shelter’s aways, hands-on activities for “Green Cards”, directly to the Applicants will receive a center.org many dogs and cats. all ages, food, and more. Los Angeles Lockbox. notice for a biometrics pro- Activities and attractions will R

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