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PRESORTED SEPTEMBER 2007 STANDARD ® U.S. POSTAGE PAID MIAMI, FL PERMIT NO. 7315 Tel: (305) 238-2868 1-800-605-7516 [email protected] [email protected] W e cover your world Vol. 18 No. 10 Jamaica: 654-7282 THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING NEWS MAGAZINE Caribbean- born legisla- tors in the U.S., like New York State Assemblyman Nick Perry, say the Bush administration’s crackdown on illegal immigrants could send thousands of Caribbean nationals further into the underground economy, page 2.
The U.S. Citizenship and ~ Bruce Golding leads the Immigration Services is urging Opposition JLP to a close Caribbean and other immi- election victory over the PNP, grants with green cards with- out expiration dates to imme- ending the incumbent’s 18-year, diately replace them or face four-term run in government of penalties, including hefty fines the Caribbean island, page 5. and jail time, page 4. Champions of the World Outstanding Caribbean athletes Donald Thomas, left, of The Bahamas, and If the predictions of Colorado Jamaica’s Veronica State University Professor Campbell won gold William Gray and his forecasting team are correct, the destruction medals at the IAAF caused by Hurricane Dean last World Championships month may be the tip of the of Athletics, page 25. proverbial iceberg that the Caribbean can expect this year, page 7.
CALL CARIBBEAN TODAY DIRECT FROM JAMAICA 654-7282 INSIDE News ...... 2 Local...... 11 Arts/Entertainment...... 15 FYI ...... 18 Feature ...... 7 Food ...... 12 Education/Youth ...... 16 Networking ...... 20 Viewpoint ...... 9 Health...... 13 Tourism/Travel ...... 17 Sport ...... 25
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2 CARIBBEAN TODAY September 2007
www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS New U.S. immigration rules concern Caribbean legislators NELSON KING City Council’s think they will be able to do Caribbean and economy would suffer more Committee on that because a lot of American other immi- than immigrants, because many NEW YORK – Caribbean leg- Immigration, businesses depend on immi- grants. immigrants take jobs that most islators here say the Bush told the grants to get their jobs done. Michael Americans refuse to do. administration’s crackdown on Caribbean “These people take advan- Chertoff, sec- “A lot of these jobs would illegal immigrants in the Media tage of immigrants in any retary of the go begging,” he said. “How United States could send thou- Corporation case,” he added. U.S. many Americans would want sands of Caribbean nationals (CMC) that Homeland to do landscaping, how many Washington’s CONCERNS Security Americans would want to pick further into the underground Stewart economy. Perry latest initiative The George W. Bush Department, fruits and work on farms in Jamaican-born New York could do more administration’s new rules, and Carlos M. Florida and upstate New York State Assemblyman Nick harm than good to the U.S. unveiled last month, have been Gutierrez, secretary of com- and other places? Perry, a member of the economy. greeted with a wave of new merce, minced no words in “American labor com- Assembly’s Task Force on New “Are they going to make concerns about labor shortages. telling reporters that the meas- plains that immigrants are rob- Immigrants, and St. Vincent this a consistent policy?” asked The rules seek to consolidate ures essentially seek to bing Americans of jobs, but do and the Grenadines-born New Perry, who represents the large- enforcement against employers strengthen border security and they really want to do the jobs YorkRU090207AA_5_56x10 City Councilman Dr. 8/28/07 ly10:23 Caribbean AM Page 58th Assembly1 and toughen penalties for hir- force illegal immigrants out of that most immigrants do?” he Kendall Stewart, chair of the District in Brooklyn. “I don’t ing undocumented or illegal the job market. added. The U.S. officials said under Stewart said that the Bush the new rules, employers have administration is “pandering to 90 days to reconcile any discrep- the conservatives,” describing ancies between Social Security the new rules as “terrible” and numbers furnished by workers “a disgrace. and the records of the U.S. “I will try to do a hearing Social Security Administration. shortly to see if we can, at least, condemn the Bush ™ SUFFER administration in the City But Perry said the U.S. NEW WORKLIFE REWARDS (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4) BIGGER, BETTER AND MORE ‘Hurricane Dean’ pummels Caribbean, REWARDING THAN EVER! leaves death, destruction in its wake powerful hurricane emergency after the hurricane, GET ploughed through the which was lifted several days ACaribbean last month, later. causing deaths and destruction The southern tip of Haiti BACK of property in several countries bore the brunt of Hurricane across the region. Dean’s fury when the danger- It also forced the post- ous storm brushed past it Aug. ponement of Jamaica’s general 19, lashing the country with ON hurricane force winds and elections, where the island’s government declared a state of heavy rains, officials said. They emergency, and pushed back said it appeared that the south- the opening date for schools. ern town of Les Engles was Hurricane Dean, packing one of the hardest hit, with winds up to 145 miles per hour, over 200 houses being knocked out utility lines, destroyed or damaged, while ripped roofs off houses, trig- three people were confirmed gered landslides and felled dead and 10 others injured trees in Dominica, St. Lucia, when the hurricane continued INK • TONER • PAPER Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican on its westward track across * Republic, Martinique and the Caribbean Sea. DESIGN, PRINT & SHIP Guadeloupe. The system was also Several deaths were linked blamed for two deaths each in to the hurricane as thousands St. Lucia, Dominica and in the Caribbean fled their Martinique and one in the homes to shelters in an attempt Dominican Republic, with to avoid the hurricane’s wrath. Trinidad, which was not in the BACK The hurricane later picked up system’s path, saying feeder ON NEARLY intensity and crashed into bands whipped up high waves EVERYTHING Belize and Mexico. which killed two residents in a ** coastal district on Aug. 17. ELSE! SCHEDULE CHANGE In Jamaica, the Category HELP Four storm pummeled the Meanwhile, countries in MEMBERSHIP IS FREE island on Aug. 19, whipping up the region rallied to aid their huge sea swells and dousing Caribbean counterparts. Check out My Worklife Partners™ at the island with several inches Caribbean community (CARI- MY WORKLIFE COM) Chairman Owen Arthur ™ www.myworkliferewards.com to see the prestigious of rain. The authorities con- PARTNERS companies we’ve teamed up with to save you money on firmed that four people, includ- pledged to lend economic assis- the products and services that you use every day. ing a teenaged girl, had been tance to needy nations. killed during the storm. The Venezuela also promised help. Jamaica Public Service, in The Caribbean diaspora in anticipation of the hurricane, the United States has also ENJOY MY Get Rewarded faster with My Special Offers! shut down the island’s power offered assistance. The at www.myworkliferewards.com We’ve created an Jamaican community in South SPECIAL exciting new benefit that gives you the freedom and system to protect its grid. The OFFERS flexibility to access exclusive bonus opportunities. country’s elections, which were Florida, for example, has made scheduled for Aug. 27, were arrangements to assist the coun- postponed until Sept. 3. try. The Jamaica Consulate Schools were re-scheduled to General and the Jamaican * 10% rewards exclude postage stamps and HP ink and toner. **1% rewards are granted on qualified purchases and certain exclusions apply. Rewards are paid quarterly in the form of an Office Depot Reward card open on Sept. 10. The govern- Diaspora Southern United when you earn a minimum of $10 in Rewards. Rewards will carry over quarter to quarter. Visit www.myworkliferewards.com for full details. ment also declared a state of (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)
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4 CARIBBEAN TODAY September 2007
www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Antigua expresses confidence U.K. will approve online gaming site NEW YORK – Antigua and Finance and Economy Minister which pro- Act is implemented on Sept. 1. Antigua for the conduct of its Barbuda has expressed confi- Dr. Errol Cort said he was motes the pre- Antigua has taken the online gaming site. The dence that its online gaming optimistic that Antigua and vention of United States to the World Caribbean country is also seeking site will be approved shortly by Barbuda’s application to the underage gam- Trade Organization’s Dispute millions of dollars in compensa- the United Kingdom. U.K.’s “whitelisting” will receive ing, protection Settlement Body for tion from the U.S. in this regard. The Baldwin Spencer approval “in due course.” of the vulnera- Washington’s non-compliance administration said last month He based such confidence ble, fairness in with a ruling favorable to ® that it has applied to the U.K.’s on the premise that “Antigua all games and Gambling Commission for per- and Barbuda’s regulatory and the combating Spencer mission to advertise its gaming licensing objectives are parallel of illicit activi- U.S. sets new measures, prods services in that country. to the U.K.’s intended remote ties and finan- In a statement issued here, gaming regulatory regime, cial crimes.” Caribbean ‘green card’ holders APPROVED, REJECTED WASHINGTON, CMC – The Immigration Services. The Antigua government United States Citizenship and said the jurisdictions of Immigration Services is urging DILEMMA Alderney and the Isle of Man Caribbean and other immi- With the new requirement, are the only two jurisdictions grants with green cards without some legal Caribbean immi- initially recommended for expiration dates to immediately grants with criminal records approval for advertising gam- replace them or face penalties. who obtained their green cards bling services within the The division of the without an expiration date Kingdom from Sept. 1. Department of between 1977 The statement said applica- Homeland and 1989 may be tions from Antigua and Barbuda Security said that in a dilemma. and Kahnawake are still receiv- these immigrants Immigration ing consideration. It said applica- may have to pay officials said if tions from Alexander, a $370 to replace they apply for Canadian reservation, Tasmania, these cards or face the new green Australia, and the Netherlands criminal penalties. card they may Antilles have been rejected by It said immigrants face deporta- the U.K. Secretary of State for who repeatedly fail tion since, under the 1996 immi- Culture Media and Sport James to comply with the new require- gration law, immigrants are Purnell. ment face up to 30 days in jail regarded as deportable for But the U.K. said that and a $100 fine. crimes, however minor, which about 1,000 overseas-based The U.S. said about 750,000 occurred years ago. online gaming sites will be green cards with no expiration Under the new measure, North GOB SIGN.qxd 8/15/2007 12:04 PM Page 1 prohibited from advertising in dates were issued between 1977 immigration officials said even that country when its Gaming and 1989. if the immigrant served a prison “It’s a security issue; it’s term or paid a fine for the making sure the right person offense, he or she still faces has the right card,” said Bill deportation. Wright, a spokesman for the U.S. Citizenship and ®
IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD New U.S. immigration rules ... Work is underway at 600 worksites throughout Miami- (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) more illegal immigration. Dade. Funded by the Building Better Communities Council,” he disclosed. Senator John Cornyn, a Texas Republican who turned Bond Program, improvement projects, large and small, WELCOMED against that bill, said the new will make a difference in our community for Conservative Republicans, measures were “a long-overdue generations to come. who defied Bush in June by step to regaining the trust of the American people that the Look for more exhibits at Miami Metrozoo, a new opposing a broad immigration bill he supported but failed in federal government is serious Cuban Museum and upgrades to dozens of beaches, the Senate, have cautiously wel- about securing our borders and parks and recreational facilities. comed the measure. That bill enforcing our laws.” included provisions to give But Senator Dianne Feinstein, Through Building Better Communities, the County has legal status to an estimated 12 a California Democrat, a champion purchased more than 1,000 acres of environmentally million illegal immigrants and of farmers, described the new endangered lands, begun work on critical sewage to create a guest worker pro- measures as a “catastrophe. “The crisis is that crops will systems and is expanding public healthcare facilities. gram for agriculture. But it col- lapsed when many senators not be harvested,” she said. Neighborhood projects include new drainage to reduce called it an amnesty that invited ® flooding, more than 26 miles of road re-surfacing and 174,000 feet of new sidewalks. ‘Hurricane Dean’ pummels Caribbean... North Miami-DDade Projects Include: (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) after the hurricane struck the • Roadwork on NW 175 St., NE 2 Ct., NW 62 Pl., States Advisory Board estab- island. NW 190 St., NW 134 St., W. Golf Dr., S. Biscayne lished several drop-off spots in She said the aid will also Miami-Dade and Broward benefit hurricane-affected popu- Dr., NW 87 St., NE 62 St., NW 7 St., NE 96 St., lations in Haiti, Dominican NE 113 St., NE 191 St., NE 214 Terr., NE 18 Ave., counties for basic food and emergency items. Republic, Dominica and St. and NE 203 St. Relief organizations in Lucia. • Claude Pepper Park Community Center South Florida teamed up in In addition, The Lauderhill efforts to aid Jamaica. Food Fire-Rescue Department is also • Regional Head Start Center accepting donations for hurri- • Northside Police Station for the Poor, the largest aid provider to the Caribbean, said cane relief in Jamaica. • New Bike Trail on Snake Creek Bridge it was ready to help. • Little Haiti Soccer Park “We have an entire ware- Compiled from CMC and house stocked with generators other sources. For information on Miami-Dade County services - and supplies. We’re ready to Hurricane Dean brings from building projects to property assessments - send out container-loads,” said Caribbean more problems you can visit www.miamidade.gov or call 3-1-1 Ann Briere, spokeswoman for than wind, rain, page 7. Food for the Poor, the day ®
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September 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 5
NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com Opposition JLP secures victory in Jamaica’s general elections GORDON WILLIAMS that criminal activities had appeared to have gone the United Kingdom, via tele- interfered with the electoral smoothly. Early reports from phone calls, television and the he Opposition has ended process, and again challenged local, regional and internation- Internet. Many traveled to the 18-year rule of the the system to expose JLP can- al observers, including teams Jamaica to witness the elec- TPeople’s National Party didates who the PNP alleged from the Caribbean and the tions and vote. Some believed (PNP) in Jamaica. before the elections hold dual Organization of American that a JLP win at the polls Throughout the heated citizenship and therefore States. Jamaica’s own Citizens would mean a fresh start for general elections campaign, should not be eligible for a Action for Free and Fair the country. Portia Simpson Miller insisted seat in Parliament. On Sept. 4, Elections, did not indicate “The message (a JLP win) her PNP should get the man- after heavy criticism, Simpson major inconsistencies. Director sends is that Jamaicans have date to continue its course as Miller eventually conceded, of Elections Danville Walker decided that it is time for a government. But after four but warned that the PNP was convinced the process was change and this party has an consecutive terms, citizens of reserved the right to challenge free and fair. opportunity to turns things the Caribbean island decided “a number” of seats won by Simpson Miller “This is an election I can around,” Irwine Claire, manag- on Sept. 3 that they had seen the JLP. defend,” he said. ing director of the New York- enough, and turned to hitch But the JLP, so long in the to “constructive engagement While on election night based Caribbean Immigrant their wagon to the Jamaica nation’s political wilderness, among the political forces of Simpson Miller appeared Services Inc. said a couple days Labour Party (JLP), led by could not wait for post-election the country.” Reports of clash- ready to defend her party’s before the elections. Bruce Golding. day recounts and burst into es between JLP and PNP sup- hold on government to the Some in the diaspora were Following a tight race, and wild celebrations, even as rains porters spilled beyond election last, it did not appear to mat- convinced that the recent the fear of a tie looming large showered them at party head- day. Golding also assured the ter. Jamaicans already seemed national debates, especially the as a tense election night wore quarters in New Kingston on country’s citizens that the JLP convinced that the JLP had face-off between Golding and on, the JLP, up to press time, election night, long before the would not let them down. taken back power they last the popular Simpson Miller, had won 33 constituency seats final results were announced by “The majority of the peo- won more than a quarter of a may have turned the tide to 27 by the PNP and will form the Electoral Office of Jamaica ple have placed their trust in century ago. towards the JLP. Jamaica’s government for the (EOJ). us,” Golding said. “We must “The fact is that the peo- “I believe the debate did next five years. Golding was “We are going to enjoy our- honor that trust. We must not ple have spoken,” Golding more harm than good to Portia expected to be sworn in as selves,” said JLP Deputy Leader betray that trust.” said. “We accept and respect Simpson,” Claire explained. prime minister on Sept. 7. Derrick Smith. “…It’s been a Going into the elections, the decision of the people.” “When the light shone on The JLP’s victory meant long time.” national opinion poll indicated Portia Simpson, her weakness the party increased, by at least that there was not much between OVERSEAS was amplified…The debate seven, the number of seats it TRUST the PNP and JLP. By early after- However, the possible had a significant impact…The won in the last elections in 2002. When Golding took the noon on Sept. 3 weather reports influence of overseas countries charismatic Portia never Just over 60 percent of those stage just before midnight at had indicated that tropical on the election results could played and that hurt her.” eligible voted in the 2007 elec- the JLP’s headquarters his depression Felix would not be a not be ignored. The PNP said tions. Some 405,215 chose the tone was decidedly more meas- threat to Jamaica, a relief for the it will pursue its investigations Gordon Williams is Caribbean JLP, while 402,275 voted PNP. ured. The prime minister-des- citizens who on Aug. 19 were into the alleged dual citizen- Today’s managing editor. Other votes went to minor par- ignate, who returned to the bombarded by Hurricane Dean, ship of JLP candidates. The Information contributed from ties and independents. JLP a few years ago after earli- which forced the postponement Jamaican diaspora also anx- various sources, including live The defeat prompted a er leaving the party to help of the polls from the original date iously followed the Sept. 3 broadcast feeds from Jamaica defiant Simpson Miller to form his own National of Aug. 27. Still, there were long events, from countries such as on election day. delay conceding power to the Democratic Movement, vowed lines at polling stations and the the United States, Canada and JLP on election night, claiming to heavily involve the PNP in EOJ reported some hitches in the ® she would wait for the recount his government. He also called voting process. of ballots the following day. on the nation to “eliminate She charged then that the elec- political violence,” which had SMOOTH tions were too close to call, marred the campaign, and turn But overall, the elections Labor Day Caribbean Carnival dazzles N.Y. NEW YORK – An estimated succeeded her father six years region, took center stage in three million spectators from ago when failing health forced “Brassfest 2007”. They includ- around the world converged on him to pass on the baton. ed Machel Montano HD, with Brooklyn’s Eastern Parkway soca star Machel Montano; for the 40th anniversary of the CARIB VIBES Xtatik, with Patrice Roberts, West Indian American Day Reggae and calypso Benjai and Zen; Traffik, with Carnival parade. rhythms and the smell of jerk Sherwyn Winchester; and The massive extravaganza, chicken, roti and other Lyrikal. Earlier that day, a held on Labor Day, Sept. 3, is Caribbean delicacies waft free young people’s “Stay in the largest carnival parade in through the air as 30 costumed School” concert was staged, North America. It comprises bands and thousands of mas- with steelband music and a a kaleidoscope of West Indian queraders jam down the three- fashion show, among other colors and a potpourri of sites, and-a-half-mile-long route. entertainment. sounds and smells. The spectacular carnival The Panorama competition The event, organized by events actually blasted off on took place on Sept. 1, pitting the Brooklyn-based West the night of Aug. 30, with defending champions CASYM Indian American Day Carnival “Divas Night” on the grounds against D’Radoes, Sesame Association (WIADCA), is the of the Brooklyn Museum, fea- Flyers, Harmony, Demstars, culmination of five successive turing female artistes out of Crossfire, Pantonics and Ad days of carnival activities that the Caribbean. Soca artistes Lib. A host of Caribbean organizers say dazzle even the FayAnn Lyons, Maurica, Miss calysonians and soca artistes ubiquitous, 5,000-strong police Alysha, Michelle Sylvester, were featured Saturday night officers who attempt to keep Lima Calibo, Patrice Roberts, during Dimanche Gras. the peace. Twiggy, Triad and Essence Costumed participants in the The 40th anniversary of mesmerized carnival lovers. King and Queen of the Bands the parade was held in honor Carnival costumes portraying competition, stilt dancers and a of the organizers’ founder male and female characters of dance troupe interspersed with Carlos Lezama, who died in the band, and the Ole Mas the Mighty Sparrow, David January. competition also held the Rudder, Scrunter, Swallow, “A lot of excitement is in audience. Singing Sandra, and Hunter, the air,” boasted Lezama’s The following night, a among others, in the grand daughter and WIADCA star-studded show, featuring finale at the Brooklyn Museum. President, Trinidadian some of the leading soca Yolanda Lezama-Clark, who bands and artistes in the ®
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6 CARIBBEAN TODAY September 2007
www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS ‘Dead broke’ Grenadian-born ex-judge Judge grants psychological tests back in N.Y. jail over child maintenance for Guyanese-born terror suspect NEW YORK, CMC – A Mason, who was kicked do what I did,” he continued. Grenadian-born former New off the bench in 2003 and had Mason said he only made NEW YORK – A United Defreitas, who is also a York State Supreme Court subsequently worked as a $68,000 in 2005 and 2006, com- States federal judge in New U.S. citizen, has been in feder- judge was last month remand- real estate agent in Atlanta, pared to $136,700 annually York has given permission for al custody since early June ed in custody for failing to Georgia, told Justice Lobis in when he sat on the bench, and psychologists to examine the when he was arrested at a convince a court that he could July that he was “dead broke” that he was borrowing from rel- Guyanese-born alleged mas- Brooklyn diner and charged not support his three children. and could not come up with atives to get by. He said he termind behind the plot to with conducting surveillance in Manhattan Supreme the initial $250,000 in court- declared bankruptcy in order to blow up John F. Kennedy a plot to blow up the fuel Court Justice Joan Lobis sent ordered, delinquent child sup- survive, and asked the judge to International Airport. tanks and a capillary system of ex-judge Reynold Mason back reduce his payments to his ex- In a brief ruling last pipes that runs beneath the to jail after he said he could wife and their children, Tiffany, month, Justice Dora L. airport and a large swath of not raise $35,000 in back child 16, Dylan, 14, and Joshua, nine. Irizarry, of Federal District Brooklyn and Queens. Three support payments. But Justice Lobis did not Court in Brooklyn, granted other Caribbean-born men — “I have no choice but to accept Mason’s contention. lawyers representing Russell Guyanese Abdel Nur, 57; recommit Mr. Mason,” Lobis “I find his testimony lack- M. DeFreitas, 63, permission Guyanese Abdul Kadir, 55; said after Mason’s lawyers and ing in credibility in a number to bring in two psychologists and Trinidadian Kareem those of his Guyanese-born ex- of places,” she said, stating that to examine their client, where Ibrahim, 62 — were also wife, Tessa Abrams-Mason, his financial statements, signed he is held at the Federal charged in the plot and remain failed to reach a settlement. under oath, were “shocking” Detention Center in Brooklyn. in custody in Trinidad and In May, Justice Lobis sent and “not complete.” The judge said the psy- Tobago awaiting extradition. Mason to the slammer for the Tessa Abrams Mason, who chologists can examine Carter declined to elabo- first time after, she said, he had managed her ex-husband’s DeFreitas “as long as neces- rate on his reason for request- evaded child support payments 1994 campaign to get him sary” before he goes on trial ing the psychological evalua- for four years and allowed Reynold Mason, right, being escorted by elected to Brooklyn Civil for plotting to blow up the air- tion, which can be conducted them to spiral to over $250,000. police. Court then the Supreme Court, port and a huge swath of its only by order of a judge. Last month, Lobis said Mason was instrumental in getting him environs in Queens. The case against Defreitas must return to prison after he port payments. kicked off the bench when she and the others revolves prima- could not come up with the “I made a lot of mistakes,” submitted evidence of alleged ‘LIMITATIONS’ rily around recordings by a lowered bond of $50,000 from he told the court, stating that ethics violations to the New Last month, Andrew government informant who $75,000. he was trying desperately to York State Commission on Carter, the lead attorney rep- managed to infiltrate the plot The judge said she was honor the back payments with- Judicial Conduct. resenting DeFreitas, had well before any concrete steps prepared to set Mason free if out success. “He would rather stay in asked Justice Irizarry to allow were taken. Marshal Miller, an he had agreed to a compro- “I was trying to set myself jail than take care of his kids,” the test to determine his assistant U.S. attorney, told mise with Abrams-Mason of up to earn money,” he added, she said after Mason’s re-sen- client’s “intellectual limita- Judge Irizarry that a “volumi- $35,000 and a payment plan. disclosing, however, that he tencing. tions.” Carter told the court nous quantity” — nearly 300 MasonSouth said GOBhe could SIGN.qxd only raise 8/15/2007had purchased 12:05 a PM$9,000 Page car to1 that Defreitas understands hours — of conversations $30,000. sell real estate. ® that he has been charged in a between Defreitas and the “You have to have a car to terrorist plot but “cannot informant was secretly record- read” and may have a “fairly ed during investigation of the low intelligence. case. “His analytical abilities are somewhat limited,” ® Carter said. IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Work is underway at 600 worksites throughout Miami- Dade. Funded by the Building Better Communities Grenadian elected to OAS post Bond Program, improvement projects, large and small, renadian-born Gillian bers: Luis Batlle, Rosana will make a difference in our community for Bristol has become Martinelli, Jane Mohan, Bruce generations to come. Gthe first CARICOM Rickerson, Patricia Quiroz, Luis Villalobos and Lucrecia Look for more exhibits at Miami Metrozoo, a new national to be elected head of the 80-year-old staff associa- Zea-Yonker. Cuban Museum and upgrades to dozens of beaches, tion at the Washington D.C.- parks and recreational facilities. based Organization of Through Building Better Communities, the County has American States. purchased more than 1,000 acres of environmentally Bristol was elected on a platform to address staff wel- endangered lands, begun work on critical sewage fare matters, including repre- systems and is expanding public healthcare facilities. sentation, job security, fairness in the workplace, participation Neighborhood projects include new drainage to reduce and inclusiveness, and respect. flooding, more than 26 miles of road re-surfacing and Bristol invited OAS 174,000 feet of new sidewalks. Secretary General José Miguel South Miami-DDade Projects Include: Insulza, Assistant Secretary • Roadwork on SW 42 St., SW 104 St., SW 137 General Albert Ramdin and all staff members to “have a Ave., SW 144 Ave., SW 152 Ave., & Colonial Dr. talk,” about creating a positive Bristol • New South Dade Cultural Arts Center environment conducive to • Expansion of Jackson Memorial Hospital South constructive engagement and The OAS Staff Association • Bikeways along SW 48 St. & interaction. was established in 1928 for the Black Creek Trail Canal “Our ambition must be to Pan American Union, the fore- runner to what 20 years later • Redland Farm Village achieve a synergy that inspires the best from us, transcends became the OAS. The OAS 35 • South Miami Branch Library our differences, and builds on member states include those of • Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden our commonalities,” Bristol CARICOM that began joining • Pinecrest Gardens Park said. in the 1960s as they gained Along with the president, Independence. For information on Miami-Dade County services - the new Staff Committee from building projects to property assessments - comprises the following ® you can visit www.miamidade.gov or call 3-1-1 Washington D.C.-based mem-
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September 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 7
FEATURE www.caribbeantoday.com Hurricane Dean brings Caribbean more problems than wind, rain PETER RICHARDS Atlantic basin at Category Five an insurance pool set up this ance program, said that at the intensity in 15 years. The last year by regional countries and time the hurricane was affect- PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – If storm to do so was Hurricane the World Bank. In St. Lucia ing those islands, it failed to the predictions of the Colorado Andrew on Aug. 24, 1992. and Dominica, the latter surpass wind speeds and other State University forecasting Even though Dean’s Category emerging from a downturn in thresholds to prompt payments team are anything to go by, Five landfall was in a more its economic fortunes that from the disaster pool estab- then the passage of Hurricane sparsely populated area, the necessitated an association with lished in February. Dean last month through the damage it left behind has been the International monetary For its part, Jamaica, Lesser Antilles is just the tip of estimated so far as being Fund (IMF) to help it rebuild, where the hurricane killed four, the proverbial iceberg. uprooted trees, blew off Professor William Gray the roofs, came close to and his team from the United Gray being hit hard enough to States school said they expect receive payouts from the 17 named storms to form in the change in tropical weather pat- Caribbean Catastrophe Atlantic during the 2007 hurri- terns called the Atlantic Multi- Risk Insurance Facility cane season that runs for a six- decadal Oscillation during the (CCRIF). Simon Young, month period starting in June. mid-1990s has created the con- who supervises the fund, They said that nine of ditions for a more active hurri- said had the storm been 30 these storms would become cane cycle that may last for 30 miles to the north it would hurricanes and five of them are years. have triggered immediate expected to develop into major payment in Jamaica. storms with winds in excess of WARNING Under the fund, countries 111 mph. The earlier forecast Whatever the predictions, pool their risks in order to estimated 14 named storms and Hurricane Dean has started the reduce individual premi- three hurricanes. ball rolling and while it did not ums by as much as 40 Gerry Bell, a hurricane have a direct hit on any percent. The premiums forecaster at the National Caribbean island during its for countries involved in Oceanic and Atmospheric passage through the Lesser the facility vary from Administration (NOAA) Antilles, it left enough destruc- $200,000 to $2 million Climate Prediction Centre in tion and death to worry and in return are eligible Maryland, U.S., described as a Caribbean leaders with at least Hurricane destruction to Caribbean mainstay crops such as bananas could severely for disaster payouts of $10 hurt the region’s economies. “lucky aberration” last year’s 10 three months still to go before million to $50 million. named Atlantic storms, which the end of the hurricane sea- But Caribbean Risk included five hurricanes and son. between $750 million to $1.5 the hurricane virtually wiped Managers Ltd officials say the only two of them considered Dean was the first hurri- billion. out the important banana 15-member Caribbean commu- major. Experts say that a cane to make landfall in the Particularly disturbing industry. nity (CARICOM) and for the Caribbean islands – In St. Lucia, a government Bermuda purchased Jamaica, Haiti, St. Lucia and official, speaking on condition deductibles that were fixed to Regional governments to place Dominica – that were pounded of anonymity, said the damage pay out for a 20-year hurricane by Hurricane Dean with winds to the island could exceed $37 or earthquake. in excess of 145 miles per hour million. “By our estimation, more emphasis on people on some occasions, is the fact Caribbean Risk Managers (Dean) was a one-in-10 year that the storm did not trigger Ltd., which oversees the insur- PETER RICHARDS “practically the day-to-day (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8) concerns of the people of the BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – region. Nearly two decades after agree- “It must benefit all the ing in Grenada to the initiative member-countries in a way outlined by then Trinidad and which is not unduly beneficial Tobago Prime Minister ANR to some and not to others,” he Robinson for further integrat- added. CARICOM Secretary General Edwin Carrington and other regional technocrats have long acknowledged that the successful operation of the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), first moot- ed in 1989 in the “Grand Anse Declaration”, hinges on improving the quality of life of Caribbean people as well as on the efficiency of the new insti- tutions necessary to ensure a fair and equitable market and Leaders in the Caribbean, from left, distribution of the benefits. Owen Arthur and Ralph Gonsalves, are pondering ways to further deepen the AMBITIOUS AGENDA integration process in the region. In a communiqué issued at the end of the July 1-4 summit, ing the Caribbean community regional leaders requested a (CARICOM), regional govern- study of the movement of ments say they will place more skilled persons in order to emphasis on the peoples of the guide the future operations of Caribbean as a means of fur- the initiative. Barbados Prime ther deepening the integration Minister Owen Arthur, who is process. now chairman of the 15-mem- St. Vincent and the ber regional integration move- Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. ment, conceded that “it is an Ralph Gonsalves, an avowed ambitious agenda. integrationist, has already “But the progress we have warned his regional colleagues made, despite the odds, in that their efforts would be bringing the CSME into exis- meaningless if the integration tence should give us the confi- movement does not address (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8)
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8 CARIBBEAN TODAY September 2007
www.caribbeantoday.com FEATURE Caribbean workforce women being held back ~ U.N. UNITED NATIONS – organized event in Quito, Caribbean, said women’s female participation in the and Tobago, where economic Although the rate of female Ecuador, called “Toward a salaries trail those of men workforce. prospects are better, the birth participation in the workforce New Social and Gender Pact: by 20 percent to 30 percent, rate is lower than the popula- in the Caribbean and Latin Shared Responsibility for “despite the swelling numbers LINK tion replacement rate – 2.1 America is at an all-time high, Productive and Reproductive of employed women.” She said The U.N. pointed to statis- children per woman. the United Nations says Work in Latin America and the about 33 million women entered tics, which show a strong link The statement also said women are still being prevent- Caribbean”. the job market between 1990 between poverty and high birth the Caribbean and Latin ed from reaching their eco- The statement said nearly and 2004, with about 16 percent rates, “which limit women’s America also have high adoles- nomic potential by their child- 60 percent of the reasons given employed as domestic help. opportunities to make a better cent pregnancy rates, with rearing and caretaking respon- by women in the region for “The countries which are living.” The statement said in nearly two out of 10 adoles- sibilities, as well as their low either not entering or leaving the among the region’s poorest, Bolivia, Guatemala and Haiti, cents having children, “which status in some countries. job market are related to their have the highest birth rates, the among the poorest countries in limits their opportunities to The U.N. said this was the roles as mothers and caregivers. largest informal economies and the region, women give birth to stay in school”. main issue discussed as part of Marcela Suazo, UNFPA’s the weakest social policies,” an average of four children. a recent United Nations director for the Division for she said, adding that they are At the same time, it said in ® Population Fund (UNFPA)- Latin America and the also states with the highest Barbados, Cuba and Trinidad Hurricane Dean brings Caribbean more problems than wind, rain (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7) port and seaport, Collymore hurricane season but this has not islands already dealing with the team that the region would be said that the event was a “sig- happened due to a delay in arrival loss of much needed revenue affected by at least four other event,” Young said. nal that the government and of equipment on the island. from rulings at the World major storms turns do not people of Grenada have not The Early Warning Systems, Trade Organization (WTO) as come true. INITIATIVES only identified lessons from the which are also being made avail- they relate to the vital bananas Prior to the start of this Ivan experience but are learn- able to other Caribbean states, and sugar industries that took - CMC year’s hurricane season, ing them. will form part of the evacuation another beating from Dean. Caribbean countries had taken “I see it as an important planning that is taking place in ® some initiatives to lessen the and essential step in building a communities around the island. HOPE effects of possible hit by storms. local culture of living with risks The Barbados-based Caribbean Further, the decision of the Jerry Collymore, the head of hurricane, not ignoring Development Bank (CDB) said European Union to revise its of the Caribbean Disaster them,” he said. it would provide emergency sugar protocol has done little Emergency Response Agency relief grants to regional coun- to improve the economic situa- Street Address: (CDERA), said Grenada, for DELAY tries affected by the hurricane. tion of the sugar producing 9020 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33157 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6010 example, was taking disaster But in St. Lucia, a few days The traditional friends of countries in the region that Miami, FL 33116-6010. management more seriously before the start of the 2007 hurri- the Caribbean including have to deal with rising oil than it did before Hurricane Telephone: (305) 238-2868 cane season, local authorities Canada, the Organization of prices on the world market. (305) 253-6029 • Fax: (305) 252-7843 Ivan struck the island two- were lamenting the delay in the American States, have also When the World Bank and-a-half years ago. Toll-Free Fax: 1-866-290-4550 implementation of Flood Early pitched in to provide immedi- launched the CCRIF it did so 1-800-605-7516 • Jamaica: 654-7282 Addressing the island’s Warning Systems for communi- ate relief to countries to help on the basis of a major storm first ever Hurricane E-mail: [email protected] ties which are prone to flooding. them overcome the devastation hitting the region once every Send ads to: [email protected] Preparedness Conference that Disaster Preparedness caused by Hurricane Dean. 10 years. Caribbean countries brought together stakeholders Coordinator Dawn French said But officials are also wary that are hoping that Dean was that Vol. 18, Number 10 • SEPT. 2007 from the Red Cross, govern- the intention was to have the sys- this influx of funds may prove storm and that the predictions ment ministries, utilities, air- tems in place for the start of the to be of little comfort to the of Prof. William Gray and his PETER A WEBLEY Publisher
Regional governments to place more emphasis on people GORDON WILLIAMS Managing Editor (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7) Guyanese citizens at various movement initiative, said it that it gives a lot of facilities to Caribbean ports of entry, has was imperative for all regional the business community to dence to take the road least SABRINA FENNELL called on his fellow leaders to states to approve the necessary move without any kind of hin- Graphic Artist traveled - that of collaborative provide statistics on the num- legislation for the measure to drance,” Peana said. effort in developing our social ber of Caribbean nationals take effect. “It is our view that this system, our common services denied entry to or deported “People are already expe- matter of freedom of move- DOROTHY CHIN and the institutions which from their countries. riencing difficulties where we ment of Caribbean nationals, Account Executive directly affect the quality of “I have asked that docu- have agreed to proceed with not only to travel, but to work life of our people,” he said. SUNDAY SELLERS mentation come to each meet- the free movement, but there is one which has to be expedit- Account Executive “Can we not conceive of a ing that we have (for) the has not been a commitment in ed if we are to build what I call program of integration outside heads to say how many people terms of our own legislation Caribbeanness,” he added. and beyond the mere economic JULISSA RAMOS have been rejected by each within the member states with Regional leaders agreed at Accounting Manager sphere, addressing fundamental country, because many of the respect to allowing for the free their summit to introduce a quality of life issues in respect Caribbean Media Source heads keep saying it’s not my movement of persons,” he said. new high-tech travel card and Media Representatives of education, health care, the thing, it’s my immigration offi- Since the free movement an automatic six-month stay for protection of our environ- cers, but I will not allow an initiative came into existence, all nationals visiting other TOM JONAS ment...cooperation in the fight immigration officer in Guyana Caribbean states have issued Caribbean nations. 353 St. Nicolas Street, Suite 200 against poverty,” Arthur added. to treat the region’s people 4,000 certificates allowing for Barbados Deputy Prime Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2Y 2P1 The CSME allows for the Tel: (514) 931-0422 • Fax: (514) 931-0455 badly because it is ultimately Caribbean nationals to work Minister Mia Mottley told E-mail: [email protected] free movement of skills, goods, my responsibility,” he said. freely within the region, but journalists that the travel card services and labor across the “It’s not just Guyanese, it’s Arthur told the opening cere- would allow the region to cre- Jamaica Bureau region, but Caribbean leaders a free movement question,” mony of the CARICOM sum- ate a virtual single domestic MARIE GREGORY have been voicing concerns, Jagdeo added. mit that “there is a very uneven space similar to what imple- (876) 925-5640 both privately and publicly, P.O. Box 127, Constant Spring concentration across the coun- mented during the Cricket Kingston 8, Jamaica that this has not always hap- APPROVAL tries suggesting that only a few World Cup earlier this year. Opinions expressed by editors and pened equitably. For instance, Dominica’s Prime Minister countries are carrying the “It has two forms of bio- Guyana’s President Bharrat writers are not necessarily those of the Roosevelt Skerrit, who has weight of providing a market metrics - the fingerprints and the publisher. Jagdeo, no doubt frustrated by lead responsibility for the free for the workers of the region.” facial, so that when you come to the problems faced by Caribbean Today, an independent Head of the Caribbean the airport and you have a news magazine, is published every month Congress of Labour (CCL) CARICOM travel card you can by Caribbean Publishing & Services, Inc. PLEASE NOTE George de Peana said he was swipe at a machine and the bar- Subscription rates are: US$20 per year Caribbean Today is requesting that, effective immediately, all editorial corre- concerned that the initiative rier would be opened and you (Bulk); 1st Class $35 per year. was skewed towards the busi- walk through,” said Mottley, Caribbean Today is not responsible spondence be e-mailed to [email protected]. We appreciate your ness community. who headed regional security for unsolicited manuscripts or photos. To co-operation. In addition, the deadline for submitting articles to be consid- guarantee return, please include a self- “At the moment, there is a during the global cricket event. addressed stamped envelope. ered for publication is the 20th of the month preceding the month of publica- limited number of categories Articles appearing in Caribbean tion. For example, the deadline for articles for Caribbean Today’s October of people who can move with- - CMC Today may not be reproduced without 2007 edition must be received no later than Sept.20, 2007. out hindrance. We feel that the written permission of the editor. treaty is somewhat lopsided in ®
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September 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 9
VIEWPOINT www.caribbeantoday.com Diversity is difficult, Ill winds: good, bad and ugly t time of writing this, but really worth it Hurricane Dean was Aon a direct path to obert Putnam’s fears and diversity are not only Jamaica, and our nerves were have come true. The inevitable” in modern soci- once again on edge, and with Harvard political scien- eties, he writes, “but over the very good reason. R So many hurricanes have tist worried that some people long run they are also desir- would use his latest research able. Ethnic diversity is, on come, and left in their wakes to argue against immigration, balance, an important social trails of death, destruction and affirmative action and multi- asset”, as America’s history despair. What awful hurricanes culturalism. demonstrates. Gilbert and Ivan were, the Sure enough, at least one 2. “In the short to medium mothers of all hurricanes, so to favorable commentary has run, however, immigration and speak. popped up on the web site of ethnic diversity challenge It was only a few weeks David Duke, the former Ku social solidarity and inhibit ago that I was speaking to a Klux Klan leader. But, not to social capital”, he writes. friend of mine who said that worry. Putnam’s findings are “Social Capital” is the strength most hurricanes seemed to valuable for sane people, too. of relationships that bond you divert from Jamaica at the last Putnam is to people who are like you or minute. “Only the big and best known “bridge” you to people who powerful ones will hit us, but for the eye- are different from you. all minor storms will shift at ble and is she in the day and pass through opening 3. “In the medium to long the last minute,” he espoused. one in de fast, but Ivan just siddung pon “Bowling run, on the other hand, suc- Gilbert sprang to mind, and his house.” we like a bad riddim,” said Alone: The cessful immigrant societies argument, although unscientif- Blame it someone to me. Collapse and create new forms of social sol- ic, had a ring of truth to it, on the storm. Some said Gilbert was Revival of idarity and dampen the nega- especially when you checked Plenty people worse, others said Ivan was American tive effects of diversity by con- out our hurricane history. had to hug up badder, but it all depended on Community”, structing new, more encom- Only major, big time, pillow and where you were. So you could CLARENCE passing identities,” says name brand hurricanes hit us, have disc be one part of the country and a 2000 best- TONY PAGE Putnam. “Thus, the central and even mighty Ivan dipped jockeys on not feel much, but people else- seller about ROBINSON Americans challenge for modern, diversi- ever so slightly, imperceptibly the radio for where were catching hell. So withdrawing fying societies is to create a in the grand scheme of things, company dur- it’s no point comparing Ivan to from civic engagement in new, broader sense of ‘we’.” but just enough to spare us a ing the Gilbert, it just depends on recent decades. Now he has a full frontal onslaught. Even so, storm’s wrath. I never dreamed where you were during both. massive new study, based on LONGTERM BENEFITS it did tons of damage, but had that I could be in the midst of So many roofs were blown interviews with nearly 30,000 In other words, birds of it hit full force we would a major hurricane and still be off, western Jamaica looked people across America, which different feathers do not flock singing a different tune, that is able to listen to call in shows like a war zone. Even the high- comes up with what he called together in the short run, but if we could sing any at all. on the radio. I got calls from er elevations of Kingston suf- in a recent Boston Globe it’s worth a try. They can ben- all over the world, both on my fered great damage, as some interview “an uncomfortable efit in the long run, especially NOT ALONE landline and on my cellular roofs flew from as early as truth.” if they develop a larger, more Now the thing about hurri- phone all through the night. eight o’clock Friday night Contrary to the cherished inclusive sense of identity to, canes is, no one wants to ride That alone saved a lot of peo- when many folks were still American notion that our say, their community, their them out alone. They’re like ple their sanity, especially waiting on the first breeze to racial and ethnic diversity country or some other larger birthdays, Valentine’s Day, those women who were alone blow. Oh, so many areas were makes us stronger, Putnam sense of purpose. Christmas and New Year’s because their so-called men affected, as the sea swept in has found quite the opposite, In that sense, Putnam’s Eve. All those single women were nowhere to be found. and wrecked so many houses. I at least in the short term. The “bunker buster”, as one head- knew exactly where they stood Blame the hurricane. It am no engineer, but I question greater the diversity in a com- line writer called it, confirms during the onslaught of storms. respects no one, large or small, the wisdom of building a house munity, the less civic engage- what many of us already All the married men find dem and I remember that some at the mouth of a river, by the ment it shows, he says. Fewer know. Living with diversity is yard and “had to be with the places in Florida were without sea, and below the level of the people vote. Fewer volunteer. a lot like my first days in the family”. All those who thought power for a very long time, road too. But foolish people They give less to charity. They army. It may not be comfort- that they really meant some- and that’s the wealthy United do. work together less on commu- able at first, but you learn to thing to their significant other, States I’m talking about. Like I said, I’m no engi- nity projects. get along. Our platoon at Fort were in for a rude awakening neer, and people will say, “But And they trust each other Dix, New Jersey, offered a as the “other” was at some COMPARISONS we always do it. For over thirty less, says Putnam, not only classic Hollywood portrait of other location during the hurri- So Ivan came and blew, odd years now.” Thirty years is across racial and ethnic lines young guys plucked by our cane. making time stand still, provid- nothing in nature. But I sup- but also within the lines. draft boards from every race, “So yu really not spending ing us with the longest night in pose that people have to live In other words, residents region and religion. Many of the hurricane night with me?” Jamaica’s history. The compar- somewhere, and if Jamaicans of the most racially and ethni- us came from backgrounds “Honey, I would love to, but isons to hurricane Gilbert ran can build dwellings not only on cally mixed neighborhoods that conditioned us to distrust I have to go and stay with rife. the banks of dry river beds, show the least trust not only people who didn’t look or talk mamma, her roof not too sta- “Boy, at least Gilbert came (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) of other races, but also people like us. But, united by a com- of their own races. mon sense of mission and no- nonsense orders from the top ‘OWN KIND?’ to observe no color but Army Does that mean people green, we learned. are better off living with, as The military, religious the old racist mantra goes, institutions and earlier waves “their own kind”? Or that we of American immigration pro- should impose a moratorium vide Putnam with good exam- on immigration, as my col- ples of how Americans learn umn-writing colleague Pat to live comfortably with diver- Buchanan suggests in the sity. The military offers a par- piece that Duke touts? ticularly quick turnaround Not quite. In fact, in his after the mid-1960s, when first paper about his new racial tensions on America’s research, “E Pluribus Unum: streets spilled into military Diversity and Community in outposts. the Twenty-first Century”, In a 1996 book that he Putnam says he wants to make footnotes, “All That We Can three points perfectly clear: 1. “Increased immigration (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)
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10 CARIBBEAN TODAY September 2007
www.caribbeantoday.com VIEWPOINT
under the “Presidential Free Asafa Powell explains his disap- Odle last month warning that the Barbados Pardon”. He had refused to apol- pointing defeat to American region is in danger of losing its Association for ogize for the deaths of two protes- Tyson Gay in the event at the traditional tourist market if fun- Masqueraders tors during the storming of the IAAF World Athletics damentals are not adhered to. (BAM) last month Office of the President in July Championships. saying its members 2002. • “He’s one of the worst coaches would boycott next • “I was prepared for the long • “Competition I have had” - West Indies cricket year’s Crop Over haul” – Journalist Mark • “I felt him is fast becoming captain Ramnaresh Sarwan last festival if organizers Benschop late last month saying coming on and I a staple in the month criticizing the team’s for- could not provide adequate security. he reluctantly accepted a pardon started to panic business of mer coach, Australian Bennett issued by President Bharrat and that slowed world tourism” - King. Compiled from CMC and other Jagdeo, insisting that he wanted to me down” –100 Caribbean Hotel sources. prove his innocence in court. meters world Association • “The roads have become a war Benschop was set free from prison record holder President Peter zone” – A statement from the ® Diversity is difficult, but really worth it (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) became a model of interracial and interethnic cooperation. Be: Black Leadership and Sure, diversity makes a Racial Integration the Army lot of people uncomfortable. Way”, authors Charles Differences cause tensions, at Moskos and John Sibley least in the short run. But his- Butler explain how. After tory shows we can come out years of trying to ignore racial O.K., once we learn how differences, the Pentagon did much we have in common. an about-face. Everyone was ordered to be on the lookout © 2007 Clarence Page. for discrimination and other Distributed by Tribune Media sources of racial tension or Services, Inc. inequality. The military, once a bastion of segregation, ® Ill winds: good, bad and ugly
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) spared us. I heard a dread recently as he chastised and Be a hero! but also in the river bed itself, rebuked this parson man who then who am I to question said that the reason why 'ET A "ACHELOR OF !PPLIED 3CIENCE IN their wisdom. Jamaica was spared so often was because so many God far- MORE MISERY ing people who prayed, lived 0UBLIC 3AFETY -ANAGEMENT As for those looters, they here. The parson man went on just added to people’s misery. to say that if Jamaicans lived in Choose a stable profession with limitless growth in the exciting No wonder in foreign countries Grenada, then Ivan wouldn’t field of public safety. the decree usually is, “looters mash up that island so. will be shot on sight”. Even Like the dread, I found Get there with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Public people who normally curse and that argument so arrogant, self chastise the police had to step righteous and audacious. Safety Management from Miami Dade College, the only back and declare that if they Everyone prays not to get hit, institution in Florida to offer the bachelor’s degree along with the had the power, they would everyone prays to win. Who wipe out those looters one by does God answer? Are there option of law enforcement certification in one seamless program. one. It’s only now some people no God faring people in realize how difficult police Cayman, Dominican Republic, Prepare for a career, graduate school or law school. work is. They are seeing these Haiti, Florida? Let’s not get “looters” every day of their carried away folks. lives, not just during hurricane, I also took note of the so don’t blame hurricanes for high number of churches that Pursue one of the following tracks: this one. I heard that looters were destroyed during major were diving into four feet of s #RIME 3CENE )NVESTIGATION hurricanes like Ivan and mud to try and salvage peo- Gilbert. Plain coincidence or s %MERGENCY -ANAGEMENT ple’s things. divine intervention? “Man is how yu house s #RIMINAL *USTICE Well, you can be sure, as mash up so, hurricane lick expected, nine months time s ,AW %NFORCEMENT yu?!” plenty babies were born. Many “No, looters came a call- areas were without power for a s #ORRECTIONS ing.” while, so with no television, no s 0ROBATION AND 0AROLE I wonder what the human cable, no satellite dish, no rights groups have to say about dance to go to, and with long s 3ECURITY,OSS 0REVENTION that? I spoke to a Grenadian dark quiet nights looming, s ,AW %NFORCEMENT friend of mine, who expressed what’s better to do than to how after Ivan had ripped rediscover your partner. So /FlCER #ERTIlCATION through her island, the looting that’s one good from the ill s #ORRECTIONS /FlCER #ERTIlCATION went crazy. The term she used wind. was, “the normally placid, calm The hurricanes came and
D-1198 s )NTERNSHIP &IELD