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PRESORTED FEBRUARY 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. 3 Jamaica: 654-7282 THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING NEWS MAGAZINE Jamaica has reached out to the dias- pora, asking those in the United States, Canada and United Kingdom for help to build the Caribbean nation. Miami- based attorney Marlon Hill talks about the movement’s progress, page 8.

Actor Morgan Freeman loves going to the Caribbean. So when a hurricane damaged his favorite island, he decided to cook up some sup- port for Grenada with the help of his famous friends, page 15. ~ Barbadian-born actress Deidrie Henry made the choice of either flying the skies or landing in front of an audience. The showbiz spotlight has been shining on her ever since, page 16.

“The wickedest city on earth” was once located in the Caribbean. Now Port Royal is a tranquil seaside town. Yet some artifacts from its evil past still exist and are on display this month in Florida, page 17. CALL CARIBBEAN TODAY DIRECT FROM JAMAICA 654-7782 INSIDE News ...... 2 Books ...... 12 Arts/Entertainment ...... 16 Politics ...... 23 Viewpoint ...... 9 Business ...... 13 Tourism/Travel ...... 19 Region ...... 24 Health ...... 11 Food ...... 15 Black History Month ...... 21 Sport ...... 26

CALL CARIBBEAN TODAY DIRECT FROM JAMAICA 654-7782

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2 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Caribbean travelers aid smooth J’can gets life in prison take-off for U.S. passport rule for smuggling deaths HOUSTON, Texas, CMC – A refrigerated to tighten border controls, had turned up at the airport GORDON WILLIAMS Jamaican immigrant was spared trailer in 2003. implemented the new rule. without a valid passport. Those the death penalty and sentenced Prosecutors who had failed to comply with ravelers to the Caribbean to life in prison for his part in a said that OPPOSITION the new rule, however, learned appear to have fallen easi- human-smuggling ring which Williams aban- The implementation date the hard way about the zero Tly in line with a controver- resulted in the death of 19 ille- doned his sial new United States regulation was postponed at least twice as tolerance policy implemented gal immigrants. human cargo that requires them to have a by the DHS. Tyrone Williams, whose after discover- valid passport when re-entering “One (American) family sentence came on his 36th birth- ing that it had Williams the U.S. turned up with a baby, but no day, was convicted last month become a Despite a few hiccups passport for the baby,” said the on 58 smuggling counts. death trap. The victims died from reported by airlines which trav- Air Jamaica supervisor, who, The jury deliberated on the dehydration and suffocation. el from the U.S. to routes in the along with the representative at case for five days before agreeing It’s the first time since 1993 Caribbean, the new rule, which Spirit did not wish to be named on the life sentence, which came that prosecutors have not won became effective Jan. 23, seems in this story. “We had to tell with no chance of parole. a death penalty conviction for to have had a smooth take-off. them that we could not allow He was found guilty for his murder. “Very, very few” travelers them to board the aircraft.” role in the attempt to smuggle have showed up at U.S. airports Other unusual situations the illegal immigrants in a ® without the required document have popped up as well. A cou- to re-enter the country, an Air ple of Jamaican citizens, who Jamaica supervisor at Atlanta’s are resident aliens in the U.S., Fugitive American caught in BVI Hartsfield-Jackson recently turned up at a U.S. air- Franklyn TORTOLA, BVI, CMC - An apprehended Netzloff, International Airport told port with expired Jamaican Caribbean Today when asked passports before the Jan. 23 American citizen wanted in who they said had been over- about passenger response to Caribbean interests, including deadline. Because their the United States on a federal staying in the BVI since the new rule the day before it tourism lobbyists in the region, planned return to the U.S. was warrant was held here last November. took effect. vehemently opposed the rule. after Jan. 23, they were warned month. The man is wanted by “Almost none,” said a Some predicted it would be the by airline representatives that According to state media, Michigan authorities on embez- supervisor from Spirit Airlines death knell of the industry in they would not be allowed to the combined efforts of offi- zlement charges. He is a former when asked the same question the Caribbean, which depended return to the U.S. with an cials from the Customs and attorney and investment advi- in the same U.S. city on the heavily on the spontaneity of expired passport. Still, they Immigration Departments sor who has been charged with same day. U.S.-based visitors who often insisted they had to return to and the police resulted in the cheating several elderly per- Before the new regulation did not bother to obtain a pass- the Caribbean island, where capture of Terry Netzloff, sons out of their money. took effect, U.S. citizens would port. But as the deadline drew they said they planned to get originally from the Detroit, Netzloff was transported often travel to the Caribbean closer, they apparently have new passports. Michigan area. to the U.S. Virgin Islands and carrying driver’s licenses and responded. Comptroller of Customs handed over to the Customs birth certificates. However, the The Air Jamaica supervi- HAPPY Wade Smith said that customs Border Protection Agency. U.S. Department of Homeland sor said “an average of less Yet, overall, the airlines officers boarded a vessel, than one traveler” each day “Running Free”, where they ® Security (DHS), citing the need (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)

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4 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Slow, steady progress marks Jamaican Diaspora movement GORDON WILLIAMS Caribbean Today. Minister Portia Simpson And if it includes asking the gov- have attended the “From the conception Miller’s proposal for a joint ernment for a contribution, then meetings…They are concerned Slow but steady is how repre- we’re now more recognizable. Parliamentary select committee so be it.” about Jamaica as well, their sentatives of the Jamaican We’ve achieved some goals.” to give oversight for diasporic heritage. And, in fact, what they Diaspora in the United States, According to Dr. Mignott, affairs; government’s plans for YOUTH TARGET want to do is to see progress in Canada and the United his northeast U.S. region has Cricket World Cup to be held Generating widespread this whole movement.” Kingdom are describing the addressed specific issues, between March and April in interest in the movement, “There are second and third movement’s progress, which including interfacing with the the Caribbean; commemorating especially among youths, is generation Jamaicans (in the began in 2004 intent on forging educational sector, forming Jamaica Diaspora Day on June also a concern. Sharon Ffolkes U.K.) who are also showing a deeper relationship between trade councils to interface in 16; and monitoring some two Abrahams, one of two Advisory interest in the diaspora move- Jamaicans overseas and the business, establishing health dozen resolutions passed at last Board members from Canada, ment,” added Travis Johnson, Caribbean nation. conference. said her region has begun tar- Advisory Board U.K. “It’s not as Members geting young Jamaicans. great a percentage as we would from the move- FUNDING ISSUES “What we did was actually like, but it’s still early days yet.” ment’s Advisory But while the board mem- go after the young people,” she Boards based bers agreed that the access to said. “So we got a strong con- Story and photograph by in the three Jamaican government officials tingent of young people (at a Gordon Williams, Caribbean nations met with and ease in decision-making Canadian conference in 2006) Today’s managing editor. Jamaican govern- had helped smooth the process, and what we’ve seen is that they ment officials in obstacles have emerged as well, ® Kingston last including funding for opera- Caribbean travelers aid smooth month to iron out tions in the different regions. several issues and “The financial support has take-off for U.S. passport rule chart its progress. just not been there,” Dr. Mignott And while said. “So it really hampers (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) expressed a reservation as to progress until we can solve the the deadline because some some remained Dr. Harold Mignott, left, makes a point to his fellow members have been pleased with the concerned that issue of how we finance the response of travelers to the countries were given one dead- on the Advisory Board of the Jamaican Diaspora during a line and another set of coun- rank and file meeting in Kingston last month. At right is Marlon Hill, a fel- movement.” region. Jamaicans were low board member from the United States. According to Franklyn, “It could have been a tries another deadline,” still in the dark funding the movement is a con- mess,” said the supervisor at Jamaica’s Minister of State in about the movement’s purpose, cern, but contributions would Spirit, which, along with Air the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and that financial support from care missions, establishing poli- be based on what is required Jamaica flies, to several Delano Franklyn told the government and private cy, lobbying, and general and what the government is Caribbean destinations. “But it Caribbean Today on the day sector was still lagging, all involvement in political issues. able to offer within the con- seems people are aware of the the deadline became effective. claimed that the massive task, Last month, the Advisory straints of its budget. rule, through their travel agen- “We were also quite con- which kicked off more than two Board, which meets every six “The provision by the gov- cies and online, and they have cerned how this would impact years ago with much fanfare, months, reviewed several out- ernment is dependent on what is responded well.” on tourist arrivals…(but) we do was settling into a workmanlike standing issues with the govern- the request,” the state minister Regional government rep- not believe it will have any sig- pattern promising favorable ment’s delegation, headed by told Caribbean Today. “…Like resentative said the initial con- nificant impact.” results in the future. Jamaica’s State Minister in the any business, the approach is if cerns over the new rule appear Gordon Williams is Caribbean “I think we’ve come a Ministry of Foreign Affairs there is a project, an occasion, to have subsided. Today’s managing editor. long way,” Dr. Harold Mignott, Delano Franklyn. Items on the then you have to look at what “Jamaica and other Advisory Board representative agenda were the Jamaican the budget is and see how best Caribbean territories had from northern U.S., told Diaspora Foundation; Prime you’re going to raise that funds. ®

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6 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com LOCAL Powerful N.Y. democratic Is comfortable retirement club endorses Haitian to on your list of wishes? s a financially comfortable percent of your income. Most ized estimate of your Social run for city council seat retirement something that financial advisors say you will Security benefit by checking Iyou are hoping to receive? need 70 percent to 80 percent your Social Security Statement, NEW YORK - The Brooklyn- field of candidates, Dr. Eugene Too many Caribbean of your work income to main- which is mailed each year to based Progressive Democratic would become the first ever Americans are finding them- tain your pre-retirement stan- every worker age 25 and older Political Association (PDPA) elected Haitian official in selves in that “wish list” cate- dard of living comfortably. approximately three months has endorsed a Haitian physi- New York City. He said he is gory for having the retirement before their birthday. Read it cian to replace former New they want. According to the MAKE UP carefully because it contains York City Councilwoman most recent Retirement information vital to your per- Yvette D. Clarke, who last Confidence Survey from the sonal financial future. It shows month was sworn-in as the Employment Benefit not only how much you and second Caribbean American Research Institute in the your family might expect to congresswoman to represent United States, less than half of receive from Social Security the 11th U.S. Congressional workers age 45 and older have when you retire, but also what District in Brooklyn. even tried to calculate how Social Security would provide Former New York City much money they will need to if you become disabled Councilwoman Una S. Clarke save for retirement. That or die. To learn more, visit - the Jamaican-born mother of could leave them in the near www.socialsecurity.gov/ Congresswoman Clarke, who future hoping that a comfort- mystatement had preceded her daughter as able retirement is given to You also may want to representative for the 40th them in a nicely-wrapped visit Social Security’s financial Councilmanic District in package. planning website at www. Brooklyn - said the PDPA For most American work- socialsecurity.gov/planners. Plan for retirement, then enjoy it. decided to endorse Dr. ers, Social Security forms the You can use the calculators Mathieu Eugene because he is Una Clarke largest part of their financial there to test different retire- the “best candidate” inter- foundation in retirement. If So, you will need to make ment ages or different scenar- viewed by the club to succeed delighted to be endorsed by you have average earnings, up the difference with pen- ios for future earnings her daughter in the February the club and Congresswoman your Social Security retirement sions, savings or investments. amounts. 20 special election. Clarke, who is also one of the benefits will replace about 40 You can find a personal- “I think Dr. Eugene club’’s top executives. ® brings several things to the “I am honored and table,” the elder Clarke, delighted for the endorse- founder and president of ments,” he told CMC. Defining tax ID purpose; PDPA, told the Caribbean “She (Congresswoman Media Corporation (CMC). Clarke) doesn’t just talk about “His commitment to the inclusion and diverse repre- replacing lost documents Caribbean American communi- sentation in our government, ty is unquestioned,” added she works to make it happen,” status from undocumented to back door. Clarke, the first ever Caribbean- he added. documented. As such, you will need to born national to hold elective “I expect to follow her QUESTION: I am not yet However, if you are apply for a replacement Form office in New York City. example as a trailblazer, a able to get a Social Security working despite being undoc- I-94 with the U.S. Citizenship “Dr. Eugene is a uniter leader and effective communi- number as of yet, but how do umented, then you may want and Immigration Services and grassroots individual. He ty service provider in the 40th I get an Individual Tax to file your taxes by applying (USCIS). Fill out form I-102, will help to tear down the Council District.” Identification Number for an ITIN from the IRS. Application for Replacement/ stereotypes about Haitians The late Shirley (ITIN) so that I may work Please log on directly to Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival- and the Haitian community. Chisholm, daughter of legally in the United States? http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs- Departure Document, and He has demonstrated his will- Barbadian and Guyanese pdf/p1915.pdf. for complete send along with a check for ingness, over the years, to be immigrants, was the first ANSWER: The ITIN is not details on ITINs and securing $160 to a federal immigration part of the larger fabric of the Caribbean American to repre- the same as a Social Security one. office near your home, says community,” she said. sent the 11th Congressional number and does not allow the USCIS. The form can be District in the late 1960s. you to work legally in the QUESTION: I have an obtained on line at uscis.gov/ FIRST U.S., says the Internal upcoming interview for an graphics/formsfee/forms/i- If elected in the crowded ® Revenue Service (IRS). As adjustment of status but my 102.htm. the IRS states: “An ITIN: problem is that I have lost does not authorize work in my original I-94 form that - Compiled by Felicia the U.S. or provide eligibility proves I came into the U.S. Persaud for Social Security benefits or legally. How can I obtain a the Earned Income Tax copy? The above column is Credit, is not valid for identi- created especially for immi- fication outside the tax sys- ANSWER: The form I-94 is grants concerned or unsure tem and does not establish the arrival/departure record, of issues pertaining to immigration status”. issued by a U.S. Customs United States immigration ITINs are used for federal Border Protection (CBP) law. It aims to answer some tax purposes only, and are not officer to foreign visitors of our readers’ frequently intended to serve any other entering the U.S. The admit- asked questions and provide purpose. The IRS issues ting CBP officer attaches the responses from qualified ITINs to help individuals com- I-94 to the visitor’s passport immigration attorneys and ply with the U.S. tax laws, and and stamps the departure advocates lobbying for the to provide a means to effi- date by which the visitor must U.S. immigration cause. The ciently process and account exit the U.S., the agency says. answers provided here are for tax returns and payments In your case, since you for information purposes for those not eligible for never left the country, you only, and do not create Social Security numbers. are considered an “overstay”, attorney-client relationship, To obtain a SS number according to the immigration nor are they a substitute for that will allow you to work laws. However, since you are “legal advice”, which can legally in the U.S., you will in the process of adjusting only be given by a competent need to become a legal per- your status, U.S. immigration attorney after reviewing all manent resident or green laws require that you prove the facts of the case. card holder and adjust your you entered the country legally and not through the ®

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FEATURE www.caribbeantoday.com 2-y-o CCJ gets passing grade

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC - The nearly two-year-old Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has received a passing grade from a top law professor at the Cave Hill campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI). Professor Albert Fiadjoe, who authored a paper on the Trinidad-based court, told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) the four major decisions which the CCJ delivered as the final appeal court for Barbados and Guyana went a great way towards establishing it as a sound institution. “The quality of output has been very good,” Prof. Fiadjoe said late last month. “There’ve been very well-researched deci- sions, very well put together and most of all the court is not afraid to tackle some very con- troversial areas of law.” Fiadgoe said the major decision against a death penalty appeal brought by the Barbados government should go some way towards erasing the percep- tion in some quarters of the region of the court as a “hang- ing court”. “When you look at that decision the court was very clear in putting across the view that the death penalty is part of our law and therefore has to be honored by the judges. “What they did go on to say is that indeed to carry out that death penalty, the court must ensure that there is procedural fairness at all stages in the process and I think this is a very positive and excellent approach,” he added.

INDEPENDENT The law lecturer said he was satisfied that the structure put in place to ensure the inde- pendence of the court was working and would continue to ensure that the CCJ was freed from political interference. “In terms of its independ- ence the CCJ is far better pro- tected than the Privy Council so there is no question in my mind at all about the acknowledged independence of the CCJ,” Fiadjoe said. He said he hoped the posi- tive experience with the CCJ so far would give other Caribbean countries the courage needed to join Barbados and Guyana and accept the CCJ as their final court of appeal. He suggested that a massive educational pro- gram and interaction across all sectors of the community would go a long way towards forging an acceptance of the court. Earlier, Barbados Attorney General Dale Marshall said the delay by some regional states to sign on to the CCJ as their final appeal court is a discredit to the region. ®

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8 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com FEATURE Gambling controversy stirs churches, politicians in Guyana TERRENCE ESSEBOOM that on behalf of the govern- boosting the tourism sector. mist “could not provide statistics or the debate was the power of the ment,” Rev. Porter said. On a global scale, Rohee a study to back his claims.” relevant minister to make regula- GEORGETOWN, Guyana – “I have seen, on television, said casino gambling has benefit- tions by the new section 32 intro- Money against morality. That sums clips of the relevant ministers say- ed 132 countries and Guyana can- PRESIDENT PLEASED duced by the bill. up last month’s acrimonious parlia- ing these things and so somebody not afford to sit on the sidelines However, Jagdeo later said The privately-owned Stabroek mentary debate leading to the pas- from government needs to come any longer. he was pleased with the outcome News newspaper noted: “Indeed, sage of controversial legislation out publicly and correct that. “We have seen how these of the meeting with Christian, apart from the general moral argu- permitting casino gambling here. Unless this is done, it would be countries have benefited from Hindu, and Muslim leaders. ment concerning the existence of Home Affairs Minister this type of gaming. Why can’t “They left that meeting say- casinos, the content and nature of Clement Rohee and Minister Guyana be a beneficiary also? ing that they better understood these regulations may vitally influ- within the Education Ministry We should not be deprived of this the purpose for and the elements ence the nature of the legislation, Desrey Fox outraged Opposition when the opportunity is right in of the bill,” Jagdeo told reporters. and the debate on the bill in parlia- parliamentarians and prominent front of us,” he told legislators He said the bill was aimed at ment and the country as a whole religious figures, who attended during debate on the Gambling encouraging the construction of should not be concluded until a the debate, when they chastised Prevention (Amendment) Bill. more hotel rooms to boost the draft of the intended regulations is the Church for holding on to “Though government is cog- country’s tourism. produced and circulated by the “certain doctrines” and sponsor- nizant that casino gaming will “This is a secular state; we government.” ing “money laundering.” contribute to Guyana’s economy, deeply respect the religious com- The bill’s silence on who are Speaking publicly to the it has never indicated that casino munity but we cannot allow any intended to constitute the local press, Chairman of the gaming will be a savior to the religion, or race, or those consid- Gaming Authority and the crite- Guyana Council of Churches economy. erations to be a determining fac- ria for considering applications (GCC) Reverend Alphonso “I don’t know where the tor when we make policies - espe- for a casino licence should ring Porter said President Bharrat Jagdeo Opposition got this idea that the cially policies that would enhance alarm bells, the newspaper said in Jagdeo, at a close-door meeting, government is of the view that tourism and create new jobs for its editorial last month. difficult to swallow the genuine- casino gaming will save a dying our children,” Jagdeo explained. distanced himself from the con- - CMC troversy, and offered an apology ness of the apology.” economy. This economy is not Government is banking on for the remarks made by his two dying, but casino gaming will con- the high cost of gaming to keep ® ministers. NEED tribute to the social and economic locals away from casinos. “The president made it clear Outside of the controversy, development of this country,” he “When this legislation is that the ministers were not eluci- though, Rohee, who piloted the argued, without providing any enacted we will ensure that there bill though Parliament, argued study to back this position repeat- is no widespread gambling, and dating government’s position Street Address: when they said that religion has that casino gaming is needed here ed by Jagdeo and several other there will only be a few Guyanese now purely on the strength of the government parliamentarians. that will take part in this since it 9020 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33157 no place in state decisions. I am Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6010 prepared to take what the presi- economic benefits it offers such Porter said when challenged to will be costly,” Rohee said during Miami, FL 33116-6010. dent says, but I think it should go as new investments, creation of provide proof that casino gaming the debate. Telephone: (305) 238-2868 a step further. Somebody needs additional forms of entertain- will spur an economic take off here, But most troubling for (305) 253-6029 • Fax: (305) 252-7843 to come out in the public and say ment, increased employment and Jagdeo, a Russian-trained econo- Opposition legislators throughout 1-800-605-7516 • Jamaica: 654-7282 E-mail: [email protected] Send ads to: [email protected] Jamaican Diaspora movement Vol. 18, Number 3 • FEB. 2007 striving for a purposeful foothold PETER A WEBLEY Publisher n 2004, Jamaica’s government gone or not as far? Q: It’s now 2007. The rank and been holding up its end of the reached out to the country’s file Jamaican, if you ask them on bargain in terms of providing this GORDON WILLIAMS Managing Editor Idiaspora, asking its citizens in A: I think it’s gone at the pace the streets, don’t seem to be fully financial and other types of the United States, Canada and the that it’s supposed to go, because it aware of what this is supposed to important support? DAMIAN P. GREGORY United Kingdom to help build the is a maturing process and we’re at be and how this is supposed to Deputy Managing Editor Caribbean nation. Miami-based the very initial stages of the dia- involve them. A: The government has not made attorney Marlon Hill,an logue, kind of concretizing it and any decisions regarding how it is SABRINA FENNELL Advisory Board member of the becoming more rooted. I think A: That is correct, and we have a going to fund the diaspora and it Graphic Artist Jamaica Diaspora movement rep- that the fact that we have gone to lot of work to do. never made any representation resenting the southern U.S., talked two conferences now where the as to how it’s gonna do that. So it DOROTHY CHIN to Caribbean Today’s Managing conversations have become more Q: Isn’t that disappointing? is something that is still up for Account Executive Editor Gordon Williams about rooted, is progress enough. discussion…and we’re hoping to the movement’s progress before However, there still has to A: I wouldn’t say it’s disappoint- kind of see exactly where that SUNDAY SELLERS he attended a board meeting in be a lot of follow through in ing. I think it’s a shortcoming of conversation is going to move. Account Executive Kingston last month. regards to many of the resolu- pulling together strategic mar- tions that happened in 2004 and keting initiatives in order to Q: If there is no money the proj- JULISSA RAMOS QUESTION: You attended the in 2006 to make sure that action translate this whole effort to the ect will not move, so are you say- Accounting Manager original meeting in 2004. The idea steps are actually being taken out Jamaican people. ing that it’s at a standstill after Caribbean Media Source to galvanize the Jamaican diaspo- of those discussions in the confer- three years? Media Representatives ra in the U.S., Canada and the ences in downtown Kingston. Q: Are they grasping the message? TOM JONAS A: I don’t know if we are at a 353 St. Nicolas Street, Suite 200 U.K. sounded like a good one at Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2Y 2P1 the time. Q: There were definite goals set, A: The message is coming out standstill in terms of funding, but Tel: (514) 931-0422 • Fax: (514) 931-0455 to be achieved over a period of across radio, it’s coming out in I think it’s a hard conversation E-mail: [email protected] ANSWER: Still sounds like a time. How far have they gone in newspapers, but, within the rum that we need to have. Every terms of achieving these goals, shop at the domino table, on the Jamaican, in Jamaica, every busi- Jamaica Bureau good one at this time. Of course, MARIE GREGORY the whole purpose of the confer- concretizing? cricket pitch we need to do more ness in Jamaica, outside Jamaica, (876) 925-5640 ence in 2004 was to kind of start work on the grassroots level. every person in Jamaica and out- P.O. Box 127, Constant Spring the process of having a more A: Part of the concretizing is part side Jamaica, needs to take a Kingston 8, Jamaica meaningful relationship – the gov- of developing the organizational Q: What about the financial sup- look at if they’re going to be a Opinions expressed by editors and ernment and the private sector, structure. You can’t move to port for the project itself, has part of this common greater pur- writers are not necessarily those of the including the Opposition – with action, especially in the diaspora, that come through in the way it pose. What each person’s role is publisher. Jamaicans living overseas. At that until you have an organizational should have? going to be, even financially, to Caribbean Today, an independent time, over 250 delegates came. In structure for people to actually help support it. news magazine, is published every month 2006, there were over 500 dele- do things. Remember, this whole A: No. We have a lot of work to by Caribbean Publishing Services, Inc. process happens on two fronts, do in that regard and we have Q: When can we see some con- Subscription rates are: US$20 per year gates, with delegates coming pri- (Bulk); 1st Class $35 per year. marily from the U.K., Canada and the organizational structure and ourselves in the diaspora over- crete results that the people can Caribbean Today is not responsible the U.S. initially in 2004. But in the action steps overseas, among seas need to work on funding embrace? How Jamaicans as a for unsolicited manuscripts or photos. To 2006 that was expanded to the and within the diaspora, and in mechanisms, and the govern- whole, not just those in the meet- guarantee return, please include a self- action steps that the diaspora ment, private sector and the ing rooms, can participate, when addressed stamped envelope. Caribbean and other countries Articles appearing in Caribbean around the world. would like to see happen in Opposition also need to look at they can get their foot in the door? Today may not be reproduced without Jamaica. So it’s a two-headed meaningful initiatives in order to written permission of the editor. Q: How far exactly has it pro- monster in regards to the maturi- fund on this side also. A: I think their foot has already gressed since 2004? Has it gone ty of the process. started to take root. as you thought it would have Q: Has the Jamaican government

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VIEWPOINT www.caribbeantoday.com Great expectations Women of substance GORDON WILLIAMS the load for Powell. For others, ost men don’t mind the American’s dismissal has playing around with a safa Powell won his only added to Powell’s burden Mfew bad women for a first competitive race of expectation. They argue while, until they decide to set- Aof 2007 during a local that no one else is even close tle down with a good woman. meet in his Caribbean home- to the Jamaican’s class to pose Isn’t that what every man land late last month. a realistic threat. desires, dreams of, wants to The 400 meters was call his own? Ultimately yes. described as a “training exer- NO CERTAINTY But while bad women cise” for the Jamaican-born But nothing in sport is have their place, they satisfy world record holder in the 100. ever certain. In 2003 few the desires of many young Powell ran a dozen sub 10-sec- thought Collins could win the men, grown men and old ond times in the short sprint 100 meters at the World timers, and as one man told last year and was rightly Athletics Championships. He me, “If it wasn’t for bad women, I wouldn’t have any named the best male track and did. And with the scourge of woman at all.” field athlete in the world. In performance enhancing drugs But one man’s bad woman the process he built a good hanging like a unwed pregnant cloud over sport, it would is another man’s really good argument for being acknowl- woman, for unlike men, edged as the greatest sprinter hardly surprise anyone if some new phenom pops out of women are adaptable, they of all time: better than change to suit the circum- nowhere in Osaka. Americans Jesse Owens, Carl stances, the environment, the Lewis, Justin Gatlin and Powell has always tested “Fear keeps cheating only, especially if she’s occasion, the man. You know many men up in age. Leave for other rea- Maurice Greene; Britain’s clean, but has not escaped how many men have settled Linford Christie; fellow scrutiny. At last year’s Penn monoga- sons, but not that. What’s she down with ‘really good mous.” An going to do, leave him then Jamaicans Donald Quarrie and Relays a reporter asked him women’ not knowing of their Lennox Miller, and Caribbean how he managed to be so understanding pick up another man who really bad past? And I know woman will won’t cheat? Yeah right. After compatriots Hasley Crawford strong and run so fast if he that I have explored bad realize and all those years under her belt, of Trinidad and Tobago and doesn’t lift much weights. women in the past, but we are Powell’s response – accompa- appreciate her choices may not be what Kim Collins of St. Kitts and not here to judge, but rather to this, and not they used to be. So a woman Nevis. nied by a knowing grin – was explore the attributes of a that he had never lifted a lot of get into a lath- TONY of substance will be intelligent, Powell has run consistent- women of substance. er if her man weights, but had always run ROBINSON know the rules of the game, ly faster than all of them. For his New Year’s resolu- exhibits a little make her own rules too, smile fast. That quickly shot down As the fair sized crowd tion, a friend of mine declared wanderlust and get even. watched Powell finish the 400, the heavy dose of skepticism that he was giving up his mis- now and again. A woman of A woman of substance they understood that the man that saturated the question. tresses and settling down with substance supports her man, does not tax her man too had extended himself. As one See, Powell understands his wife alone, as he had ‘dis- encourages him in his ambitions much. They don’t dig, gouge, coach said while observing the that although the Caribbean covered’ that she is a really and dreams, plus shares in his scrounge, demand, expect, painful stretch run, “the bear has produced some of the good woman and didn’t endeavors. You know how they want, desire, insist. Even when has come out of the woods to world’s greatest athletes, some deserve his wild philandering say that behind every successful things are tight and money is get him.” still do not want to believe that ways. Well, bully for him. man is a string of women run- tight, some women still expect they have competed fairly. It is After 20 years of marriage, he ning him down? Well that too, to be living the high life. This has decided to hang up his MUST WIN hard for the skeptics to fathom but the saying really is, ‘behind drives so many men to do how dirt tracks and unsophisti- boots and devote his time to every successful man is a woman things that they would not nor- Yet when the World his really good wife, who has Athletics Championships rolls cated training equipment in so- of substance.’ mally do, just to meet her called Third World countries been so understanding all It’s true in many cases. So demands and expectations. around in Osaka, Japan this these years. summer, the fans will demand can continuously produce such often we have heard these men A good woman will live excellence. One American thanking their women for stick- within her means, and if her he continues his 100 meters KEY dominance. They expect him sprinter, when asked at the ing by them, supporting them man can’t afford lobster, then a Understanding, that’s a and believing in their dreams. I trip to KFC or Wendy’s should to win. Penn Relays about Powell’s key prerequisite of a woman of Earlier this month Powell greatness, delivered a near- know of so many women who suffice. The irony is, the less substance. She must be under- have stood by their men in the demanding a woman is, the and his coach Stephen Francis tirade, declaring that the U.S. is standing to her man, she must were invited by the Jamaican the world’s dominant force in lean years until they finally more she’ll get out of her man. realize that basically all men made it. The fact that these But when she expects the Diaspora Foundation to Miami sprinting and no one could have a wandering eye now and men now have young girls on world, even in lean times, all to be honored for their efforts. challenge that. then, and if it’s not now, it will the side is neither here nor she does is build up resent- See, Powell has become the So while the Caribbean be then, that his eyes wander. expects Powell to win, it also there, just an occupational haz- ment in her man. “Imagine, poster boy for Jamaica and the Some men may not physically ard that she’ll have to accept if she see say things nah gwaan, Caribbean, in addition to being piles on the added weight that act on it, not because they he must win. she’s a good woman. and she still want to go out and the region’s best bet for gold. don’t want to, for every man spend dollars every night.” Other great Caribbean Fair or not, the expectation of would if he could, but some- UNDERSTANDING A woman of substance will athletes, both male and female, victory is so great, that any- times circumstances and fear She’ll be understanding. be considerate, and if she has it, thing else from him will be con- will be at the World Athletics may stop him in his tracks. There goes that word again. she can pick up the tab some- sidered a catastrophic athletic Championships, and some can Many men miss the old Hey listen, it’s silly for a disappointment by not just the win. But Powell is the closest game, and as one guy told me, woman to leave a man for (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) region, but by the entire world. thing to gold medal certainty. Powell admitted that the The region’s desperate wish to great sprinters have always win, beating the whole world won gold at the two biggest while it is watching, is about meets - World Athletics pride. It is a lot for a young Championships and Olympic man to carry. Games. He knows his legacy as By the time the gun sounds an athlete will hang not on the to start the 100 meters final for numerous Grand Prix circuit men, the “bear” of fatigue victories, which make him a probably won’t be the factor comfortable living, but his abil- for Powell. The biggest “bear” ity to skip to the top podium at of all - expectation of an entire the most prestigious events. region - will be prowling in the Last year Powell won woods. Will it buckle Powell? Commonwealth Games gold, For the sprinter, the weight of but the bigger news of 2006 expectation will never have was that arch-rival Gatlin had been greater. God speed. tested positive for prohibited substances and was banned Gordon Williams is Caribbean from the sport. Some say Today’s managing editor. Gatlin’s absence should lighten ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com VIEWPOINT • “Ganja (marijuana) has • “I think it was complete been one of the main obsta- domination (by India) but I Women of substance cles between the citizens of won’t say it was a lack of this country and the police” – fight” – West Indies captain (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) there, smiling and looking like attorney Michael Lorne after Brian Lara admits to porcelain dolls. Well, a woman times. A woman of substance of substance will join in the dis- police shot and killed a man reporters after the regional will say now and then, “Come • “We are firmly of the belief during an argument involving team was beaten 3-1 in its last cussion, give her opinion, add Honey, my treat this time.” her two cents worth, share her that the cost to the society of a marijuana cigarette in one-day international series views and let it be known that coping with the social conse- Jamaica last month. The inci- before hosting Cricket World BALANCE she has sense too. quences of casino gambling dent, during which an elderly Cup beginning next month. So many women live in the Maybe some weak stupid will far outweigh the value of man was also allegedly killed shadow of their men and take men with low self esteem may any revenue collected” – a by police bullets, sparked a Compiled from CMC and the coy, demure attitude to not want their women to be church alliance last month massive protest in the parish other sources. ridiculous lengths. Sometimes heard, but a woman of sub- opposing the introduction of of St. Catherine. you go out and all the discus- stance should not be with such casino gambling in Guyana. ® sions are dominated by men, a man. Gone are the days when with the women just sitting women were just meant to be trophy wives, look pretty, good to adorn their men at social functions, but not participate. Of course it’s a delicate balance, for she can’t be too dominant and show him up either, as he’ll feel inadequate. A woman of substance knows that even if she’s brighter than her man, she must be smart enough not to show it. A woman of substance takes the love initiative at times. She doesn’t wait all the time for the man to make the move, for him to initiate the romp in the hay, but she can turn on the thrills sometimes. Let him feel like he too is desirable, and that she’s not just doing it because he wants it. Hey, men like to feel good about themselves too.

CHEMISTRY A woman of substance will keep the chemistry going, make sure that she tries to look as good as when she first met him. None of this greeting him at the door with hair curlers in, or gaining 40 pounds two years down the road. I know it’s a sore point with the ladies, but many have maintained their looks, poise, grace over the years, so it can be done…with a little effort. Don’t let yourself go, unless you’re willing to let the man go. Most women are practical and pragmatic about relation- ships. Many men will marry because the woman looks good, sexy, beautiful, alluring, desirable. But women think practical. “Does he have a good job, can he support me, is he responsible?” A divorced lady friend of mine told me that she would never marry for love again, never, and never again be led by her heart, but by her head. Hey, it’s difficult being a woman of substance, as you have to be all things to one man, his woman, his partner, his confidante, his friend, his mother, his nurse, his con- science, his teacher, his stu- dent, his sex toy. But if you can achieve this and more, then you are truly a woman of sub- stance and men will seek you out. Try it, you might like it.

[email protected]: ®

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February 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 11

HEALTH www.caribbeantoday.com Managing asthma by controlling signs Windies cricket star bats Many people with asthma know that such goals do not • Think about your rescue become overwhelmed by it have to be out of reach. inhaler use - do you use it for cancer center in T&T and let it control the way they Asthma sufferers must learn more than twice a week? Do live their lives. to recognize symptoms and you use it at particular times? PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, the center was that it would Dr. Monica Kraft, director their triggers. • Try to identify the specific CMC – West Indies batting cater to all, including the of Duke University’s Allergy, environments or situations ace Brian Lara, who lost his needy who can’t afford the Asthma and Airway Center, TIPS that trigger symptoms such as mother to cancer, has treatment. who will be featured in an There are many ways to shortness of breath, chest- launched a cancer treatment “I wish it was around 10 upcoming television special help control asthma. The tightening, lung burning, center in his name. to 15 years ago. But today entitled “Breathing Easy: most important step is talking wheezing and coughing. The regional team’s captain Women and Asthma”, talks to the • Identify what you feel if said at last month’s launch it about effective ways in which doctor and/or when you wake up at was a bittersweet day for him, those with asthma can accom- about night. because the occasion reminded plish goals and live the life ways to • Identify what you feel him of the passing of his par- they want. manage when you first wake up in the ents Bunty and Pearl Lara. Dr. Kraft advises patients asthma. morning. “What a bittersweet to find the right doctor with Dr. Kraft • What medications have moment for me. As Trinidad whom they can build a long- offers the you taken in the past that are and Tobago is about to inherit term relationship because on- following or aren’t related to asthma? the first state-of-the-art cancer going follow up is the key to tips on • What medications are you treatment center it also brings managing asthma. Then they how to currently taking? back to me memories of my have to describe the symp- help your Did you know? By loving parents,” Lara said. Lara toms and how often they are doctor becoming educated and aware He added, “My dad passed onwards, we can boast of hav- using your fast-acting inhaler. best serve you: of what triggers their asthma, away in 1989 of a heart attack, ing a state-of-the-art cancer Patients should tell the doctor • Find out what you can in conjunction with developing another concern for all in the center that is going to be for how these symptoms keep about asthma so you can iden- a good relationship with their medical field, and also my the very rich to the very poor them from doing what they tify the symptoms and how it physician, asthma sufferers can mom who passed away in 2002, and that is definitely some- want or need to do. might be affecting your life. be in a position to proactively and that is definitely something thing that I want to put my Doctors can help patients There are many great infor- manage their illness. that has an alliance to this name to. It is a great honor,” set goals - whether it’s running mational tools, including web- because she died of cancer.” said Lara. or gardening without getting sites like www.asthmaware- - Full Spectrum Media Pearl battled cancer for 10 The center, which is based out of breath - and let them nessedu.com. years, he said. in Woodbrook, will take in its ® first patient in March. NEEDY Lara, on behalf of the Pearl Lara then stated that one and Bunty Lara Foundation, A primer on Vitamin B12 - your nerve nutrient of the reasons he accepted an presented a check on behalf of SUZY COHEN like homocysteine. See why I tions may be improved by invitation from the Medcorps the center, and called on corpo- like it so much? Your physi- injecting a special, active form Group, which comprises a rate T&T to support the center. QUESTION: I heard that I cian’s office can run a blood test of B12 called methylcobalamin, number of health providers in should take B12 separately, to determine deficiency, but which helps insulate damaged T&T, to append his name to ® because the multivitamin does- blood levels of B12 don’t always nerve fibers and regenerate n’t contain enough. I find that reflect the levels of B12 in your healthier neurons. hard to believe. nerve tissue. The type of B12 matters WARNING U.S. medics for annual confab ANSWER: B12, also called and, yes, taking it separately in Please be aware that when- cobalamin, is safe even at very ever you take B12 in high in Montego Bay May 24-28 high doses. Did you know it dosages, you should take a full contains the mineral cobalt? range of B-complex vitamins to embers of Region Connecticut, Maine, You can get B12 from your diet maintain balance. Anyone with One of the National Massachusetts, New by eating fish, dairy products, nerve damage should also con- MMedical Association Hampshire, New Jersey, eggs, beef, pork and organ sider DHA (essential fatty (NMA) in the United States Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, meats such as liver. Vegetarians acids) to nourish and protect recently paid a courtesy call on Vermont and the Virgin will need supplementation to against more nerve damage. Dr. Basil K. Bryan, consul gen- Islands. More than 100 physi- stay healthy. If you take antibiotics, met- eral of Jamaica to New York at cians are expected to attend A B12 deficiency may formin for diabetes, seizure his midtown Manhattan office. the meeting, which is sched- cause fatigue, pale skin, diar- medications like phenytoin or The NMA members, Dr. uled to cover various health rhea, weight loss, numbness or Phenobarbital, or any acid- Dexter McKenzie and Dr. Jay topics while allowing the NMA tingling in the hands and feet, larger doses is better. It’s your reducer or ulcer medication, you C. Cowan updated Bryan on to conduct regular business. nerve nutrient. could become deficient in B12. loss of balance, confusion, plans for the NMA’s annual The NMA is over 100 If you have multiple sclero- memory loss, sores in the conference, scheduled for years old and has a nation- mouth, depression and mood sis, spinal cord lesions, peripher- © 2007 Dear Pharmacist, Inc. wide enrollment of some al neuropathy, trigeminal neu- Distributed by Tribune Media May 24-28 in Montego Bay, swings. 25,000 members. ralgia, ALS, Alzheimer’s, Services, Inc. Jamaica. Parkinson’s, muscular dystrophy NMA’s Region One is SCARY made up of chapters from ® B12 is important in pre- or any condition that causes ® venting heart disease, because it aberrant nerve misfiring or (along with folic acid) helps demyelination (unraveling) of reduce inflammatory chemicals the nerve sheath, these condi-

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www.caribbeantoday.com BOOKS Spotlight shines on Little Haiti Jamaican wisdom passed new book, exploring tales of many some of those pioneers Miami’s vast, complex Haitians who came were present to re-tell along in color and style and colorful Haitian to the South their stories and share A whatever help one can get even community, is now in stores. Florida, United their concerns about • TITLE: WHA MAMA help that he/she would normally Author David C. Brown, States community in the current plight of USTO’ SEH reject as mockingly inade- who operates tours through the 1950s, how they Haitians in the U.S. quate”. the largest Haitian community assimilated and the and in the homeland. • COMPILED BY: SANDRA outside of the Caribbean way the area has SENIOR WISDOM island, has written “The Story evolved. ® But this book is not about of Little Haiti, Featuring Its During a recep- • REVIEWED BY: despair, but rather a celebration Pioneers”. tion to launch the GORDON WILLIAMS of Jamaican roots and culture, The book draws on the book last month, fter they get over the spanning the continents and initial shock – and in oceans traveled by the country’s Asome cases embarrass- forefathers and mothers to A new, welcome guide for ment and even disgust at what impart priceless wisdom. Most they may deem as mockery – Jamaicans, if they care to admit many Jamaicans are often it, will tell you that they still Caribbean Sea lovers amused by foreigners who, on hear their parents’ or grandpar- learning they are from the ents’ proverbs, taught to them • TITLE: DANGEROUS of information. soning could include Caribbean island, try to as children, ringing SEA LIFE OF THE WEST Besides the abdominal pain, mimic their in their thoughts as ATLANTIC, CARIBBEAN, habitat, injury numbness of the lips, accent and they go about daily AND GULF OF MEXICO prevention and tongue, and throat, local catch life in countries far practical tips, vomiting, etc. phases. from their home- • AUTHORS: EDWIN S. the guide also Prevention simply Who hasn’t land. The proverbs IVERSEN AND RENATE H. has an exten- means not consuming heard “mon”, seem to make more SKINNER sive list of fish from known poi- “irieee”, “raayg- sense when spoken additional sonous areas. The gay”, or worse, (or remembered) • REVIEWED BY: DAWN reading at authors suggest “seek an attempt at in “patwa”, and A. DAVIS the end of local knowledge”. one of the color- the pure English each chap- Some sea life can ful swear words, translation does ost of us remember ter for even also be full of environ- from a complete not always hit the with trepidation, the more mental pollutants that are stranger, often right spot. Not Mdeath of wildlife guru detailed harmful to humans if delivered with an even the written Steve Irwin, also known as research. eaten. Shellfish and mol- naive smile? “patwa” carries “The Crocodile Hunter”, A lusks, for example, can Somehow, the full weight all whose life was cut short in glossary take in bacteria from people just like the the time, as is true in some September when he was fatally also helps the reader better untreated sewage. Parasites accent and phrases and like to cases of “Wha Mama Usto’ pierced through the heart by a understand certain species and such as tapeworms and leeches try them out with Jamaican Seh”. venomous stingray spine. bacteria, while the inclusion of can become a problem when we nationals every chance they get. Yet Senior’s book tells the Tragically, this incident full-color, glossy photographs - eat affected sea life. Cooking But most times – as is the case reader that “If yuh cyaan ketch reminds us that not all sea life is most in their natural surround- fish thoroughly is critical, with the curse words – the for- Quaaco, yuh ketch ‘im shut!” safe, even if they appear docile. ings - gives the reader a more according to the authors. eigners are way off target with Meaning: “When a person “Dangerous Sea Life of the realistic perspective. the lilt and, worse, have little offends you if you cannot get West Atlantic, Caribbean, and Unfortunately, not all RECREATION clue what the words mean. the person, then you take Gulf of Mexico” is a new and species discussed are pictured in The sea floor offers a fasci- Sandra Senior’s “Wha revenge on person(s), things or welcome guide for sea lovers, the book. Nonetheless, the nating world to be admired. Mama Usto’ She” is not the situations closest to his/her recreational and commercial authors offer invaluable advice. However, whether you are a first attempt to explain the heart…” fishermen, scuba divers, and For example, the chapter on serious scuba diver, a novice or charming “patwa” of Jamaica. So if you, particularly the curious who eat or come Human/Animal Interactions new to snorkeling, “Dangerous But her compilation offers a descendants of Jamaicans who close to the fascinating life that warns of reducing “a child’s Sea Life” will help you distin- nice bonus, more than 365 – are unable to get to the island, inhabit the sea. innate fears of marine life while guish between harmless crea- you could say “wan, wan coco and “ketch Quaaco”, meaning In layman’s language, and an playing in the ocean” with the tures and the ones to admire full baskit” - proverbs that are learn the proverbs first hand, easy-to-read format, Edwin S. growing practice of petting tanks with caution while taking in the at once catchy, witty, proverbial, then Senior’s examples in “Wha Iversen and Renate H. Skinner - in public marine aquaria. In fact, dazzling beauty of a coral reef. informative, and down and Mama Usto’ Seh” are authentic, both steeped in the field of many opponents of have been Another recreational sea earthy Jamaican. They come in entertaining and educational marine biology - look at Atlantic fighting to end captivity of ani- sport growing in popularity is “patwa”, followed by pure alternatives. and Caribbean Sea life species mals for human pleasure. sports fishing - the annual Blue English translations, which are Suh ketch it nuh, and keep and give the casual and “expert” Marlin Tournament held in Port always helpful to readers. connected to the Jamaican handler insights into species’ TAINTED Antonio, Jamaica is an example. “Wen chubble tek yuh, roots. habitat, the injury they can cause Did you know that the pikney shut fit yuh!” could aptly to humans, poison/injury preven- snapper fish you eat could be PUBLISHER: Pineapple describe what happens to a per- Contact Sandra Senior at tion tactics, and first aid strate- poisonous? Although most are Press, Inc. Sarasota, Florida, son if he or she does not know [email protected] for more gies if one is bitten or poisoned. edible, some snapper from 2006. the nuances of “Wha Mama information. mangroves and reefs could be Usto’ She”. With that saying, DETAILED tainted with the poison ciguat- Dawn A. Davis is a freelance Senior’s book tells the reader Gordon Williams is Caribbean For a small book (100 era, caused by the fish feeding writer for Caribbean Today. that “In times of despair and Today’s managing editor. pages) the reader gets quite a bit on toxic algae. According to desperate need, one will accept the authors, symptoms of poi- ® ®

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BUSINESS www.caribbeantoday.com Foreign spousal rights, One year on, thumbs up for CSM PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - cated their border business in their own investment in the U.S. One year after six Caribbean willingness expansion plans and that has community (CARICOM) states to replace been very, very positive.” ANDREA L. MIRABITO AND rate property state, which is signed the agreement establish- national trav- Governor of the Barbados MICHAEL ROSENBERG more common in the U.S., and ing the CARICOM Single el documents Central Bank, Dr. Marion for purposes of this discussion, Market (CSM), regional politi- with a region- Williams, said there had been no cians, private sector officials and al passport by negative impact on the island n prior editions of Caribbean we will use the state of Florida technocrats have given a cau- 2007. So far, since it signed the Today we have discussed the as the state into which the tious but positive response to most of the CSM agreement last year. United States tax implica- community property owning I the regional initiative. member She told the Caribbean Media tions of foreign investment in spouses are investing or mov- Moss-Solomon ing. The CSM, the forerunner to states have Corporation (CMC) that while the U.S. the plans by regional govern- complied with the new travel no economic assessment has We’ve also focused on the WHAT IF? ments to begin the process of a requirement. been done to determine what U.S. tax effects of a U.S. single market and economy by percentage of net capital inflows income tax non-resident alien Assume a foreign couple (husband and wife) own all of 2008, was originally signed by GOALS MET came from the region (NRA) and/or a U.S. estate Barbados, Belize, Guyana, The region’s umbrella pri- in 2006, she believes the impact and gift tax non-resident alien their assets as community property under the laws of Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad vate sector organization, the has been good for Barbados. their foreign domicile, and that and Tobago on Jan. 28 last year Caribbean Association of “I will say there is probably they invest $1,000,000 in a at a special ceremony held at the Industry and Commerce a positive impact in terms of vacation home in Florida and Mona campus of the University (CAIC), said while there have inflow, but I would not like to $100,000 in a bank account in of the West Indies (UWI). been some hiccups during the say this is categorically so Florida, both of which are Since then, Antigua and past 12 months, the regional ini- because we really have done the titled in the husband’s name Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, tiative has so far achieved some analysis, but the size of the capi- only. Assume that husband St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the of its objective. tal inflows and just in layman’s predeceases wife and dies Grenadine and St. Kitts and CAIC President James observations of investments in intestate. Should this property Nevis have signed the accord, Moss-Solomon said that regional Barbados, particularly out of pass pursuant to the laws of the with Haiti, The Bahamas and businesses “have found that Trinidad, suggest to me that state of Florida or pursuant to Montserrat, the only CARI- exploring opportunities in the some of those capital inflows Writing a proper can make distributing COM states not party to the Caribbean have been much easi- came from the region,” Williams the laws of husband’s and wife’s assets a much simpler task. agreement. er, so the question of setting up said. foreign domicile? Under the accord, the gov- businesses, going to other terri- Steven Mac Andrew, What would happen if hus- domiciliary (NRAD) becoming ernments have agreed to lift tar- tories where they may have felt regional specialist for the free band died with a will (Florida a U.S. income tax resident iffs among participating mem- not welcome before has gone movement of skills and labor, or foreign), bequeathing all of alien (RA) and/or a U.S. estate bers, and all citizens can open away. said that while there’s been his property to his son? and gift tax resident alien businesses, provide services and “Many companies now have much movement, Caribbean Would husband be able to dis- domiciliary (RAD). move capital throughout the sin- almost been forced to take cog- governments still need to facili- In addition to the U.S. tax pose of 100 percent of the gle market without restrictions. nizant and include CARICOM implications of any such for- vacation home and the bank The governments had also indi- expansion, CARICOM cross (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14) eign investment or change in account, or only 50 percent status, there are various issues because of wife’s community which arise regarding property property rights? ownership rights between Further assume that hus- spouses, specifically with band and wife eventually move respect to married couples who their permanent domicile to own some or all of their prop- Florida and acquire new for- erty as “community property” eign and Florida assets while under the laws of a foreign domiciled in Florida. What jurisdiction. The following would be the status of such highlights some considerations assets? in this regard. Preliminarily, it should be WHO GETS WHAT noted that the vast majority of Generally, if husband is a states in the U.S. are separate foreign domiciliary and dies property states, although intestate, Florida law will apply presently 10 states have some to real property located in form of community property. Florida, but foreign law will Florida is considered a sepa- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14)

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14 CARIBBEAN TODAY February 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com BUSINESS Two programs offer help to save on mortgage insurance JOSE H. CARABALLO who make down payments of 10 to better serve those who have and the ways they can help you Jose H. Caraballo is a percent or less and have limited limited funds is the 80-10-10 loan save money on your home loan home loan consultant in the onsidering buying a home cash resources. (a first mortgage combined with financing. Pembroke Pines, Florida office with less than a 20 percent a home equity loan). This pro- of Countrywide Home Loans, Cdown payment? BENEFITS gram provides a flexible financial *Tax benefits depend on an indi- Inc. He can be reached at 305- If so, there are two pro- For the majority of people, vehicle that minimizes down vidual’s financial circumstances. 968-1257 or by e-mail at cara- grams that can help you save the benefits of LPMI include: payment and maximizes avail- Consult your tax adviser. [email protected]. money. 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Some of the advantages of personal property located in tion) and even U.S. reporting tax costs by eliminat- LPMI builds the cost of the 80-10-10 loan program Florida. If, however, husband obligations (with respect to ing non-deductible mortgage insurance into the include the following: leaves a Florida will, he may be ownership interests in foreign mortgage insurance pre- loan’s interest rate, so you • Flexible financial planning tool able to elect that Florida law companies, trusts, and even for- replace a non-deductible for future expenditures; miums. By contrast, tradi- would apply, instead, to his eign bank accounts). insurance premium • Access to home equity; and tional mortgage insurance personal property located in Under some circum- with a tax deductible • Easier qualifying since first may require additional closing Florida. stances, a couple may wish to mortgage payment.* mortgage is lower and total pay- costs and always requires a non- Florida law would apply sever community property and ment is often lower. deductible insurance premium to various statutory presumptions under some circumstances a FLEXIBLE Ask your lender for an be paid by you, the borrower. regarding the status of the cou- couple may wish to confirm the Another program designed explanation of these products LPMI is suited for people ple’s property, which could be continuing existence of com- rebutted by evidence of con- munity property rights or its trary intent. Under Florida application to newly acquired intestate succession rules, wife property. In either case, plan- could be entitled to only a por- ning using lifetime trusts, either tion of the value of the house irrevocable or revocable can be and the bank account, depend- extremely helpful in order to ing on whether husband was ensure that assets are adminis- survived by any children and tered in an optimal manner on the application of any such from both a tax and a non-tax presumptions. perspective both during life Also, interestingly, because and after death. Florida’s “elective share” Furthermore, foreign indi- statute only applies to dece- viduals should consider the use dents who are domiciled in of a Florida Last Will and Florida at the time of death, it Testament to specifically dis- appears possible that husband pose of their Florida situs could disinherit wife, at least assets. with respect to his personal In summary, there are a property located in Florida, by myriad of issues which need to so providing in a Florida will. be considered in the context of Bank accounts may be subject investment in the U.S., or relo- to different rules, specifically cation to the U.S., by couples bank accounts known as who come from a community “Totten Trusts” (when an indi- property jurisdiction. vidual opens an account in his own name “in trust for” some- Michael Rosenberg is a share- one else). holder and Andrea L. Mirabito is an associate with COMMUNITY PROPERTY the Coral Gables law firm of Community property issues Packman, Neuwahl & need to be considered in con- Rosenberg and can be reached nection with determining U.S. at 305-665?3311 income tax (for example, if one ® One year on, thumbs up for CSM (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13) He told the CMC that while tate the process. OECS states remain very com- Mac Andrew said there were mitted to the CSM, they still still too many complaints from needed to safeguard their own CARICOM nationals going to special interests. Port of Spain and being “told that Governor of the Eastern they cannot work immediately.” Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Sir Dwight Venner COMMITMENTS agrees with the sentiments out- The six OECS countries that lined by Savarin, saying that the signed on to the regional initia- OECS economic integration tive in June after being given should serve as a model not just firm commitments that they for CARICOM, but indeed the would not be placed at a disad- rest of the world to follow. vantage are also actively engaged “There are things that we in a process to create an eco- are doing there that are very nomic union of their own. interesting not only to ourselves But Dominica’s Foreign but the international communi- Affairs Minister Charles Savarin ty,” he said. said the two processes were in no way contradictory neither is it a - CMC case of unnecessary duplication. ®

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February 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 15

FOOD www.caribbeantoday.com Love of Caribbean leads actor to help with cookbook ctor Morgan Freeman, quartered oil and fry for about two min- equal portions of the carpac- Recipe and photograph who often visits • 1/2 cup sugar utes or until golden brown. cio in an overlapping circle on reprinted from OPRAH.com, AGrenada, was not • 2 teaspoons ground Transfer to paper towels to a dessert plate. Lay two pieces the website of the Oprah happy when Hurricane Ivan cinnamon drain. Dust with cinnamon- of fried banana in the center, Winfrey Show. damaged the Caribbean island sugar mixture. and top with one large scoop in 2004. To make the vanilla ice cream: of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle ® So the Oscar-nominated Split the vanilla bean pods To assemble the dish: Arrange with vanilla bean syrup. Freeman, who was outstand- lengthwise and scrape out all ing in movies like “Driving the seeds. In a large saucepan, Miss Daisy”, “Glory”, “The combine the milk and cream, Shawshank Redemption” and add the seeds and pods, and “Million Dollar Baby”, decid- bring to a slow boil over medi- ed to help compile a cook- um heat. book - “Morgan Freeman and In a large bowl, using and Friends: Caribbean Cooking electric mixer on high speed, for a Cause” – to raise money beat the egg yolks and sugar until light and fluffy, about two to three min- utes. Pour in half the boiling milk mixture and combine. Pour into pan and cook, stir- ring, over medi- um heat until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Executive Chef Conny Andersson whips up a tasty treat as Remove from Oprah Winfrey, left, and Morgan Freeman watch during a recent episode of the “Oprah Winfrey Show”. heat and immedi- ately strain into in support of the Grenada another bowl. Place over a Relief Fund for hurricane vic- second large bowl filled with tims. Freeman got help for the ice and let cool completely, project from other celebrities stirring every 30 minutes. as well, including Tom Hanks, When cool, freeze in an ice Ben Affleck, Kevin Bacon cream maker according to the and Alicia Keys. manufacturer’s directions. Last year Freeman appeared on the popular To make the vanilla bean sim- “Oprah Winfrey Show” along ple syrup: Bring sugar, leftover with Beverly Wilshire Hotel vanilla bean pods and water to Executive Chef Conny a boil in a small saucepan. Andersson, who created a When sugar is dissolved, delightful recipe featured in remove from heat. Remove the book: “Beignets With vanilla bean pods. Cool syrup Pineapple Carpaccio and to room temperature. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream”. Caribbean Today reprints To make the pineapple the recipe this month, hoping carpaccio: Cut off the top of to help promote the book and the pineapple and, following benefit Grenada. the shape of the fruit, slice off the skin with a serrated knife, INGREDIENTS making sure to remove all the eyes. Using a serrated knife, Vanilla ice cream slice the fruit into the thinnest • 2 fresh vanilla bean pods possible rings. • 2 cups milk Place each slice on a sheet • 2 cups heavy cream of plastic wrap, brush with the • 12 egg yolks syrup, rub the brown sugar • 1 cup sugar over the surface, and top with a second sheet of plastic wrap. Vanilla bean simple syrup Repeat with the remaining • 1 cup granulated sugar slices, transfer to a rimmed • 1 cup water backing sheet, and refrigerate • vanilla bean pods overnight.

Pineapple carpaccio To make the banana beignets: In • 1 fresh pineapple a medium bowl, combine the • 1/2 cup vanilla bean sim- flour, salt, sugar and baking pow- ple syrup der. Add the eggs and one cup • 1/2 cup light brown sugar water and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Refrigerate for at Banana beignets least one hour. • 1 cup all-purpose flour In a small bowl, combine • 1/2 teaspoon salt the sugar and cinnamon; set • 1 teaspoon sugar aside. • 1 teaspoon baking powder In a deep fryer, heat the • 2 large eggs oil to 350 degrees. Working in • vegetable oil batches, dip the bananas in • 4 bananas, peeled and the chilled batter and coat sliced lengthwise then completely. Slip them into the

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www.caribbeantoday.com ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT Bajan-born actress ‘shines through’ on screen and stage eidrie Henry was born pilot with John Leguizamo. I happened I thought ‘well, you sion to go into acting? don’t need to get paid because in Barbados, but grew was starring with John can really do this, you can real- I’m not. (She laughs.) We’re Dup in the U.S. She Leguizamo. If that had gotten ly make money doing this’. It A: The choice was made for not getting paid, but my com- learned to fly planes, worked in picked up then it would have wasn’t big money, but enough me, based on my life work and mitment is as strong, sometimes a corporate office and pondered gone to New York, then it to pay my rent. I got to travel. I the way my universe sort of stronger. law school. But her best role has would have been on CBS. But got to leave Atlanta…After revolves. When I graduated always been as a performer - there is always the potential of that, I said ‘O.K., you know from Embry-Riddell that was Q: I read some reviews about acting, singing and playing something big happening. So what, I need to go back to the year that Eastern (Airlines) the work you did in (the play) music. Although Henry now while you’re continuing to do school’…At the time Phyllicia had folded, 1990-91. So basical- “Yellowman”. That was an calls Paris home, the 30-some- ly the market was flooded with interesting role because it raises thing is still Bajan-to-the-bone. pilots who obviously had more the issue of race and color and She told Caribbean Today’s (flying) hours and more experi- background. Why did you Managing Editor Gordon ence. At the same time, Chris accept that role in the begin- Williams about her journey Coleman had started Actors ning and how challenging was from the Caribbean to Express (ttheater in Atlanta). it, especially being a black per- America’s screen and stage. He basically called me on the son with Caribbean roots? The following is an edited ver- phone and said come on up. So sion of that Jan. 19 interview: I think if Eastern hadn’t fold- A: The thing is “Yellowman” is ed…The decision was sort of a universal story from the Q: Were you, as a child, always made for me when I couldn’t standpoint that everyone, no at home acting out skits and find a job flying. The theater matter what culture you’re singing? rescued me…I know that if I from, you’re always gonna try did not have acting as an outlet to…‘it’s about being better than A: …I’ve never thought of and I decided to put my head someone else’. So, either in the myself necessarily as a competi- towards being an executive, I Caribbean, it definitely exists tive person, because it is not could do that right now. But I there. In the black community necessarily about competing did not want to do it. I didn’t it exists there, where it’s dealing against other people. But I want to sit in somebody’s with the color within the com- think I’ve always been like ‘let Henry, right, shines on stage. office… munity, the color of your skin – me see if I can do that’. I’ve how light you are, what grade just got to see if I can do it. I of hair you have. You’re either remember seeing this girl on auditions, you work. considered good or bad, you’re stage, before I left Barbados, either considered nice or not and I really wanted to play Q: Are you focused on drama nice. You are judged, unfortu- Cinderella and I remember not or are you open to anything? nately, based on the color or being given an opportunity to hue of your skin. And so that’s do that. A: I’m open to anything, but kinda what the play is about… the truth is I think I am the Q: Why? straight person opposite the (CONTINUED ON PAGE 18) comedian. That appears to be A: I was too young, probably. what’s happening…I just do But I just remember being drama very, very well. Spotlight on destroyed that I didn’t get it…I remember taking on the violin. Q: Does the straight person fit I started playing the violin at you personally? Deidrie 10…I played it all through high school. But in my ninth grade A: Comedy is probably the • Born in St. Michael’s, Barbados, year I was in what they called most difficult, I would think, attended St. Angela’s school. the pit orchestra for a musical. genre. It’s about timing (she Henry poses with “Commander in Chief” star Geena Davis. • Moved to the United States at And I thought, ‘that’s never laughs). It’s about being funny. age 10 with mother Shirley, gonna happen again’ because I And I don’t think I’m that; I father and elder brother Cristin saw the people on stage. don’t think I’m funny. Other Rashad said ‘why would you Q: You said something about in the 1970s. people may think I’m funny take yourself out to put your- the way you are…Do you think • Attended Avondale High School Q: And you were not on stage. and that would be great, but self back in again?’ it all happened for a big, grand in Georgia and Embry-Riddell comedy terrifies me. I don’t reason? Aeronautical University in Florida. A: No, I was in the pit, playing look at any comedian and think Q: “Blues for an Alabama • Appeared in television shows the music. I got to watch this I could be better than that. Not Sky”, that was the turning A: Yes. I mean yes, yes. I “NCIS”, “Shark”, “Commander girl on stage play “Dorothy” in at all. point? believe that we’re all guided in in Chief”, “Without A Trace”, “The Wiz”…Every time I certain ways. We either listen “Strong Medicine”, “ER” and “ watched her I thought ‘I could Q: So you are more comfort- A: Correct. That was definitely or we don’t…I don’t know if it’s All My Children”. do that. I could do it better’. So able playing straight dramatic the turning point, when I got to my ancestors. I definitely know • Stage credits include “Blues the next year I auditioned to be roles? leave Atlanta and travel a little it’s a source. I know that God for an Alabama Sky”, “What a on the stage and I got to go on bit and do this work and realize guides me. There is a voice that Day for a Daydream” and stage and I got to act. A: Right…I know that it’s that ‘my God, I could actually I listen to that says ‘go this way’ “Yellowman”. sometimes more important to make money doing this’… and I try to do it without kick- • Won awards for leading role in Q: You said you are currently step outside of your comfort Being able to do what you love ing and screaming. I usually “Yellowman”, including Backstage zone, and at some point I to do and get paid to do it, I don’t. Usually I’m able to go on the set, on the set of what? Garland Award, Los Angeles would like to do that, but right think, is the greatest gift that with the flow. I was definitely Drama Critics Circle Award , now I think where I fit better is anyone can be given. Phyllicia disappointed that I couldn’t fly, A: Right now I am a recurring NAACP Theatre Award and in the career straight man. said don’t put yourself out to but I recognized that something character on a new series star- Ovation Award. Won Backstage bring yourself back in, move to else was happening. The disap- ring Eddie Izzard and Mini Bistro Award in New York City for Q: Are you satisfied with how New York. So I did. New York pointment was weighed very Driver. It’s gonna be on (chan- outstanding vocalist and cabaret your career has gone so far? kicked my butt. evenly with the ability to nel) FX, called the “The debut for “What a Day for a express myself artistically. Riches”. It’ll be a weekly series. Daydream”, and was Helen Hayes A: Well, I’ve been seriously in Q: Was it a disappointment, I believe it premiers in March Award nominee as best support- on FX. the business, where I’ve said going to New York? Q: Would you do it – perform- ‘O.K. well I’m not going to pur- ing - if you were not getting ing for best supporting role in “Blues for an Alabama Sky”. Q: What other roles do you see sue anything else’, since 1997. I A: No, actually, it wasn’t a dis- paid a lot? got out of flight school and I appointment. It was just hard, • Interest in acting began while in coming up for you in the future, Barbados when she saw a girl bigger roles, movies? had a friend in Atlanta who very, very hard. But it was the A: I am doing it and not getting had started a theater…I was place that I knew ‘O.K. this is paid a lot. Actually, the theater play Cinderella on television. • She’s done Shakespeare, but A: My manager is constantly also working full time while something I had to choose real- that I’m working at, I’m getting exposure to showbiz included putting me out there. Right acting at this theater…I acted ly hard, I’m gonna to have to paid to be on the set for “The playing violin in the orchestra pit now in Los Angeles it’s the in “Blues for Alabama Sky”, work really hard to do this’. Riches” and to do that show on at a school play in the U.S. period of the year that they call starring Phyllicia Rashad and T.V., but when it comes to the- pilot season. Last year I did a that was in 1995. So when that Q: How did you make the deci- ater that’s the artistic side. I ®

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ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT www.caribbeantoday.com Exhibition on Port Royal opens Vincentian comedian ‘Saluche’ at Miami museum this month dies at home of a heart attack

large collection of rare English colonial activity in the conjunction with “Port Royal, ucien “Saluche” Small, artifacts depicting life in region it is important that we Jamaica”. On each third St. Vincent and the Athe Caribbean city once understand the history of Port Thursday evening, from March LGrenadines’ best- known as the “wickedest on Royal. These objects present a to May, the museum will offer known comedian, died from a earth” will be on display in unique opportunity to examine lectures and other programs heart attack last month. Florida beginning this month. this history,” said Wayne related to Jamaican history and The 60-year-old was found “Port Royal, Jamaica”, an Modest, director of museums of cultural traditions. Family fun by his younger brothers lying exhibition jointly organized by history and ethnography at the days will take place every on the floor of his living room, the Institute of Jamaica and the Institute of Jamaica. Saturday, beginning Feb. 10, family members reported. Historical Museum of Southern Museum visitors will be able from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., with Saluche, who was regard- Florida, will be open to the to see over 150 unique artifacts hands-on activities for children. ed as a Vincentian ambassa- dor of entertainment, gave people across the region big laughs with his side-splitting humor at comedy festivals and was a headliner at shows in Britain, the United States and Saluche the Caribbean. He also had the honor of performing at Saluche “stiff” at his home at the famous Harlem Apollo Dorsetshire Hill on the out- Theatre in New York City. skirts of capital Kingstown. “It was his heart,” Lloyd HEART ATTACK Small said. “It’s real hard, it’s Saluche’s brother, local real hard.” trade unionist Lloyd Small, Many, including Rare artifacts displayed at “Port Royal, Jamaica” exhibition. told the Caribbean Media Vincentian Culture Minister Corporation that his elder Rene Baptiste, mourned as public at the museum, down- brother died from “a massive news of his death circulated. town Miami, from Feb. 16 illustrative of life in Port Royal, Third Thursday programs and Baptiste said that he was the such as an intricately engraved Family fun days are free. heart attack,” based on the through June 3. conclusion of an autopsy. funniest man in St. Vincent For the first time in the tortoise-shell comb case, a red The museum is located at “It was nothing else,” and the Grenadines and United States, the public will clay pipe associated with African 101 W. Flagler St. For more Lloyd Small said, ruling out would be terribly missed. have an opportunity to view arti- craftsmen in the city, a pewter information about the exhibi- plate made by local pewterer tion, call the museum at 305- any other possible medical “Vincentian culture has facts from the famous city, much lost an icon,” she said. of which sank under the sea in a Simon Benning, Chinese porce- 375-1492 or visit www.hmsf.org cause. Small said he and his devastating earthquake in 1692. lain, German stoneware and twin brother, Julian, found ® Once known as the “wickedest Spanish silver coins. ® city on earth”, Port Royal has a Many of these artifacts were past far richer than pirates’ recovered through underwater treasures. For centuries, Port archaeology expeditions carried SHOW STOPPERS Royal has been a focal point of out since the 1950s. The Royal Caribbean and Atlantic history: Navy era of Port Royal’s history a cosmopolitan port and center will be portrayed through such for the African slave trade dur- items as a Spencer Browning & ing the 17th century, a major Rust telescope, pharmaceutical base of the British Royal Navy vials from the naval hospital, and during the 18th and 19th cen- a bust of Horatio Nelson, one of turies, and a maritime town and several British naval heroes who world-class heritage site today. served in Port Royal during the “We are very honored to 18th century. collaborate with Jamaica’s Rare maps, prints, books national museum on this and manuscripts will accompa- ground-breaking project,” Dr. ny the collection of artifacts Stephen Stuempfle, chief cura- from the National Library of tor for the Historical Museum Jamaica, the University of of Southern Florida, said in a Florida George A. Smathers press release issued by the Libraries and the Historical museum recently. Museum of Southern Florida. “The Historical Museum Among the many treasures are is committed to partnering with John Taylor’s map of Port other institutions to explore Royal, with perspective views how events in the Caribbean of the city before the earth- have shaped world history dur- quake, and two illustrations of ing the past several centuries.” ships at Port Royal by the International stars Kenny Rogers, left, and Chuck Mangione were among the big name performers at the 10th Annual Air Jamaica prominent 19th-century British Jazz and Blues Festival held last month in Montego Bay, Jamaica. IMPORTANT artist Joseph Bartholomew Other legends and new favorites who entertained the large crowds included Shaggy, Robert Cray, Christopher Cross, Earth From its founding in 1655 Kidd. Wind & Fire, as well as Monty Alexander, NEWA, Pieces of a Dream and Roy Ayers. Hot dancehall star Sean Paul showed up too, along with a number of other Caribbean artistes such as Sanchez and Wayne Wonder. until the 1692 earthquake, Port Royal was one of the TODAY’S TOWN most important cities in the The exhibition also will English-colonized Americas. examine community life in Port Comparable in size to Boston, Royal today through 25 black it was densely settled, graced and white photographs shot with lavish homes and imposing during the 1980s by Maria forts, and extremely wealthy, LaYacona, one of Jamaica’s due in part to government-sanc- leading photographers. tioned pirate raids of Spanish In addition, video footage ships and ports. The city was of efforts to research and pre- also known for its abundance serve Port Royal’s heritage of shipwrights, blacksmiths, through underwater archaeolo- pewterers, silversmiths and gy will be on display. other skilled craftsmen. A variety of educational “To fully understand programs will be presented in

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www.caribbeantoday.com ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT Bajan-born actress ‘shines through’ on screen and stage (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16) prejudice or some sort of big- an actor as a singer as a per- ties...slowly. otry I would find it. I was told former, is something that goes Q: Being a black person from once that ‘oh yeah, you proba- beyond the color of my skin. So, Q: Have you ever been asked the Caribbean, have you had to bly didn’t get that role because if the color of my skin, if that’s you to play a Caribbean experience that here in the you’re really dark’, but whatev- what you see, what do I do? I woman? United States and has that had er. I believe that my talent can’t change it. So the show def- any effect of your career? shines through, so therefore I initely puts it in that light, it A: Yes, on “Savannah”, which don’t ever make decisions based puts it in the light of ‘you are was a show that was out years A: You know, that I can’t tell on what I believe people think who you are’. This is something and years ago, I was asked to you because I don’t make those of me. I don’t think anybody I can’t change. I know that (dis- play the Barbadian desk clerk. decisions and I don’t react to should do that. I can’t, because crimination) exists. I know deci- those decisions. I suppose if I the gift that I’ve been given, as sions have been made around Q: Did you get a chance to was looking for some sort of the color of my skin. shine? Barbadian-born Deidrie Henry. Q: You were born in Barbados, A: I think I probably had two came here as a family, but you tighter, I think. lines or something like that. So also had to go out into I have been asked, but I think American society. How much of Q: By necessity? in general, when Americans that was a difference for you hear an accent, they say they and how much did you lean on A: Now I’m just proud. want something specific. They your Caribbean family roots say they want you to be from then and even today? Q: Do you go around telling The Bahamas or something. people you are Barbadian? But when they hear that accent, A: When we moved to Atlanta they don’t know where it’s from. I remember thinking ‘oh, more A: I’m proud to be Barbadian. opportunities’. That’s what I Q: Are there a lot of Caribbean remember as young as I was, a Q: How tough is it for black people breaking into the acting 10-year-old, and I was very, women to get into the business business now? very excited. Now I remem- of acting these days? They say a bered reacting very strongly to lot of doors are open, pointing A: Yes, but the thing is there is people not listening to what I to the Halle Berrys and so on, a necessity. You have to be able was saying, but listening to the how tough is it now? to turn the accent on and off. accent, or reacting to that. So I You have to. You’ve gotta be remember very consciously say- A: Well, it is opening more able to assimilate because every ing ‘oh no’, because people from the standpoint that we can role doesn’t call for a West weren’t listening to me. I be seen as judges and lawyers Indian. Every role could be a remember changing my accent. and doctors and paralegals… West Indian…If the accent Now it ended up coming out There’s a wider array of oppor- comes in and they need some- the way I sound (today). My tunities that we have than we body who is more straight, or (Barbadian) accent, I don’t used to. Before, it was you need somebody who is more have one. There might be some were playing the nurse. There’s erudite, and accent is not nec- things that might come out nothing wrong with that. You essarily going to assist you as Southern, but I don’t have an were playing the nurse or the an actor. accent, I don’t believe…It’s just maid or given the crack heads the way it came out. But… or the nanny, which we are and Q: With more immigrants now there was definitely still that tie we do, and I believe those are assimilating into American cul- (with the Caribbean)… There’s roles that we do well. But we ture, you would think that the no way to separate that part of are, if you look at us in society, roles now have to reflect that… my family, my growing up. You I’ve met black female pilots, can’t separate it. I was influ- I’ve met black female doctors. A: Well it depends also on the enced by Dominica, by I’ve been operated on by black producers, the casting directors, Barbados, by her (mother’s) female doctors, actually a the scope of what they’re able friends who were in Atlanta, Haitian doctor, who is amazing. to see. Yes, this character of the who visited or moved to I’ve black female anything, we paralegal, I could have brought Atlanta who were West Indian. run the gamut. We are intelli- her in with an accent, but it was There was no way to separate. I gent, we are beautiful, we are set in Louisiana, so she sort of had my American friends, but I forceful, we’re a force of nature had a Southern accent. I don’t also had my West Indian and we have the ability and the know what would have hap- friends. I believe that when you capability to do all of that. Now pened if I had brought in a get to the United States you are we are being represented as Barbadian accent. no longer friends from the that or given an opportunity to. Caribbean, you end up becom- For little black girls to see, little Cover and other photographs ing a family. The last names West Indian black girls period, of Deidrie Henry obtained may be different, but the cul- to be able to see a black from her website: www.dei- ture I believe necessitates, as woman playing something that drie.com you try to assimilate into the she dreams of being, I think American system, you become there are amazing opportuni- ®

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TOURISM/ TRAVEL www.caribbeantoday.com ‘Clear skies’ as CARICOM single space travel begins ‘Food and Rum’ festival set BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, require security checks at for St. Lucia in November CMC – Apart from a brief their first port of entry. At food demonstrations, conduct- technical glitch, which pre- that port, an armband bearing t. Lucia’s second annual ed by some of the world’s top vented the examination of the CARICOM logo is placed “Food and Rum” festival chefs. passports, all of the airports on the hand of travelers, elim- Swill be staged from Nov. St. Lucia was recently across the region reported inating the need for further 1-4, 2007. voted the top Caribbean desti- success as 10 Caribbean com- screening at the other ports Festival organizer Allen nation in the 2006 annual munity (CARICOM) coun- of entry. Chastanet, who was recently Travel Weekly Readers Choice tries began testing a single Mottley said regional appointed St. Lucia’s minister Awards. The award recipients domestic space recently. heads recognize that there of tourism and civil aviation, were chosen by Travel Weekly “There was a technical would be challenges, but have said the event will develop readers, a collection of agents, glitch…and as a result of that given themselves three weeks into a major “linkages” event industry marketing executives there was limited examination to refine the processes, “such in years to come, promoting and chief executive officers of passports,” Mia Mottley, Mottley that when we welcome the the nexus between tourism, of the world’s largest travel chair of the CARICOM Sub- world to our backyard for agriculture and art. agencies, namely customs, companies throughout North Committee for Cricket World Cricket World Cup, we will do A highlight of this year’s immigration, police, in some America. Cup Security told reporters. so as a region and as a people, event is the rum pavilion, instances military, port “Once those technical ready to be able to where patrons get to sample health, not the ® glitches are overcome then we show off the the region’s rums along with mention of will move to the full stage of best that we course the persons just submitting their have.” regulatory ID cards and walking through Mottley, who TOURISM BRIEFS ministries in immigration, which is the ulti- is also • Top acts for Tobago’s jazz fest The embassy, which serves which those mate intent of where we want Barbados’s Sir Elton John, Al Green, Gladys Barbados and the eastern Caribbean, agencies also to be,” Mottley added. deputy prime Knight LL Cool J are scheduled to will be is $33.8 million building in an find themselves,” The single domestic space minister, said perform at the third annual Plymouth industrial district on the outskirts of Mottley said. was created to facilitate the that the people of Jazz Festival in Tobago April 27-29. the capital Bridgetown. “From today until upcoming ICC Cricket World the Caribbean For more information on the Deputy Chief of Mission Mary the 21st of Cup 2007 to be held in the could rest assured festival visit Ellen Gilroy said while the appoint- February is effectively being region from Mar. 5 to April 28. that stringent security meas- www.tobagojazzfest.com. ment system, which was introduced treated as a training and test- Antigua, Barbados, ures are in place to prevent last year, would remain in place, ing period to work out chal- Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, any compromise of the • U.S. opens new embassy in appointment times would be made lenges and listen to the per- St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Vincent region’s security. B’dos more specific. spectives of Caribbean people and Trinidad are hosting “I want to give you and The United States officially opened a The new building will host all across the region who are World Cup matches and they the region, the assurance, that new state-of-the-art building in agencies of the U.S. Mission in experiencing this exercise to are joined by Dominica in the we will do nothing at all to Wildey last month to house its Bridgetown, which were formerly hear what their feelings are to single domestic space. compromise the security of embassy in Barbados. scattered among a number of loca- see if we can improve the sys- the region while we get the The building is expected to tions. tem.” ‘MAMMOTH EXERCISE’ ease of movement working assist Eastern Caribbean residents seeking visas to travel to the United Compiled from several sources. “There is no doubt in my correctly,” Mottley said. EASY TRAVEL States in obtaining speedier transac- mind…that this is a mammoth With the implementation tions officials said. exercise and its scale is per- ® ® of the single domestic space, haps unparalleled certainly in CARICOM nationals, except modern independent history those living in Haiti, are now of the region in terms of seek- able to travel easily through- ing to harmonize the actions out the region and would only of 10 countries across multiple St. Lucia uses machine readable passports CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC - various features of the pass- St. Lucia has begun the pro- port, particularly sizes that are duction of machine readable applicable to machine read- passports, which the new John able passports,” the official Compton administration said said. was an initiative aimed at pro- “Another prescription by moting the fight against ter- the U.S.A. is that by January rorism and international white 2008 persons will not be able collar crime. to enter the U.S.A. less they The Ministry of Home are entering with a machine Affairs and National Security, readable passport, so at least in a statement issued last St. Lucia is one year ahead of month, said that it had started that deadline, and increasingly the process of the passport other industrial nations will issuing system in compliance impose these requirements,” with new international civil she added. aviation regulations. The passport system Senior government offi- is being supplied by the cial Ingril Bouillard said that Canadian Bank Note (CBN), the introduction of the new which has over 100 years of system signals to the interna- experience in document securi- tional community St. Lucia’s ty and specializes in counterfeit commitment to the fight security. The company against terrorism and wide- has issued similar systems in spread crime. Jamaica, Suriname, Grenada, “The international stan- St. Vincent and the Grenadines, dards are being prescribed by St. Kitts Nevis, Dominica and the International Civil Cuba. Aviation Authority on the ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com FYI GRENADA’S reside. for each academy, and two ices provider ING, gives par- announced that aliens must DINNER/DANCE The master of ceremonies academies will be offered each ents information they need to mail applications to renew or Caribbean musical legend for the event will be Derek year. Acceptance will be know about their child’s replace permanent resident Mighty Sparrow will highlight Ventour, a renowned Grenadian granted on a first come, first school, curriculum and stu- cards, commonly known as a celebration marking personality and community serve basis. There is no regis- dent requirements. “Green Cards”, directly to the Grenada’s 33rd Independence activist in New York. tration fee or cost to partici- The guide is printed in Los Angeles Lockbox. to be held on Feb. 10 at the For more information on pants. three languages -English, The Lockbox is a process- Inverrary Country Club in the Grenada Cultural & Civic Applications for the Broward Spanish and Haitian creole. ing facility used by USCIS to Lauderhill, Florida. Association, visit www.gcca- County Academy are available on Each school in the system will accelerate the collection of The event, being put on southfla.com or e-mail us at the Broward County web site receive additional copies for applications and petitions. by the Grenada Cultural & [email protected] www.broward.org/academy, by e- use in parent-teacher meet- The announced change allows Civic Association, will feature mailing [email protected] ings. the agency to improve the a reception at 7 p.m. and a KNOWING GOV’T or by calling the Broward County The guide may also be processing of Form I-90 dinner program at 8 p.m. Starting this month, residents Public Communications Office at viewed online at www.educa- (Application to Replace The theme for the dinner of Broward County, Florida 954-357-6990. tionfund.org (under “Our Permanent Resident Card) by is “The Diaspora Supporting are being invited to partici- Publications”) and www.dade- electronically capturing data Grenada’s Local Industry”. pate in a new program that PASSPORT REMINDER schools.net (under and images and by performing The scheduled guest speaker offers them an opportunity to The Western Hemisphere “Resources”). fee receipting and depositing is Phillip Peters, of Zagada learn about the county’s gov- Travel Initiative (WHTI) took The 2006-2007 Guide pro- from one central location, Markets. Peters, a Grenadian ernment. effect last month. vides a wealth of information rather than at the local district national is an expert on During the free eight- The WHTI requires all including revised curriculum office, service center, or appli- Caribbean issues. He will week program, called the those United States citizens requirements, test schedules, cation support center (ASC). focus on the “Diaspora Broward County Academy, traveling by air to the immunization requirements, Aliens filing a Form I-90, Movement”. Performing at residents will learn how coun- Caribbean to have a passport. student services, legal rights regardless of their state of res- the dinner this year is the leg- ty government delivers servic- For information about and parental involvement. idence, must mail those appli- endary Mighty Sparrow, along es to enhance and promote applying for a U.S. passport, cations with an application fee with the Sound Factory Band. the quality of life for resi- visit http://usps.com/passport PASSPORT of $185 and a biometrics fee Individuals and groups to be dents, businesses and visitors. or call 800-ASK-USPS. APPLICATION of $70 to one of the following honored this year include: The goal is to raise public The National Passport addresses: Jennifer Smart and her family awareness about county pro- PARENT RESOURCE Information Center (NPIC), For U.S. Postal Service for their efforts during grams and services, and to GUIDE the United States Department (USPS) deliveries: Hurricane Ivan; the DOR- increase community involve- The Miami-Dade of State’s single, centralized • U.S. Citizenship and CAS Medical Mission on their ment and participation in local County Public Schools and public contact center for U.S. Immigration Services, P.O. successful mission to Grenada government. The Education Fund have passport information, is offer- Box 54870 Los Angeles, CA in Sept. 2006; and Miami The academy will run co-published a free Parent ing a toll free service and has 90054-0870; Gardens Mayor Shirley from Feb. 8 through Mar. 29. Resource Guide 2006-2007 expanded its service availabili- Or for non-USPS deliver- Gibson for the achievements All county residents age 18 or for the public. ty/options. ies (e.g. private couriers): in the City of Miami Gardens older are eligible to apply. The 88-page guide, spon- Persons with questions or • U.S. Citizenship and where many Grenadians There is a limit of 25 students sored by global financial serv- need status checks on pending Immigration Services, passport applications can call Attention: I-90, 16420 Valley 1-877-487-2778. Customer View Ave., La Mirada, CA service representatives are 90638 available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Applicants should not Monday through Friday, include initial evidence and excluding Federal holidays. supporting documentation Automated information is when submitting the Form I- available 24 hours a day, seven 90 to the Los Angeles days a week. Lockbox. For e-mail access, visit: Applicants will receive a [email protected] Website of notice for a biometrics pro- passport and other interna- cessing appointment at an tional travel information is ASC and will submit their ini- available at travel.state.gov tial evidence during that appointment. ‘GREEN CARD’ FILING Applicants will receive The United States their biometrics appointment Citizenship and Immigration in the mail. Services (USCIS) has ®

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH www.caribbeantoday.com ~A Caribbean Today special feature ‘An Evening With Poet Malachi Smith’ adds First clerk in the House Caribbean flavor to Black History Month Lorraine C. Miller, presi- month. lorida’s presentation to of Malachi Smith”. biography offers a look at a dent of the NAACP As clerk of the House, honor Black History life emerging from a broken Washington, D.C. branch Miller will become the first Month will have a dis- POETRY ROOTS home, poverty, and personal and senior advisor to United African American to serve F tinct Caribbean flavor this The documentary reviews and societal prejudices to dis- States House Speaker as an official of the House year. the poetry genre that started cover and transform himself. Nancy Pelosi, will take over of Representatives. “An Evening with Poet on the streets of Kingston, A series of interviews, punctu- as clerk of the U.S. House Malachi Smith”, including a ated with Smith’s poetry, car- of Representatives this ® documentary on the Jamaican ries the “dub-u-mentary” poet’s life and his own read- which was produced and ing/performance, will be directed by L. Michael Bryan. staged at 6 p.m. Feb. 22 at the During the library pro- African-American Research gram, Smith will present a Library and Cultural Center reading/performance, fol- 2650 Sistrunk Blvd. in Fort lowed by a question and Lauderdale. answer session. Short readings The event, being present- will also be offered by Dr. ed by the Broward County Donna Weir-Soley, of Florida Commission Libraries International University, and Division in Florida, in associa- Professor Geoffrey Philp, of tion with Reggae Concepts Malachi Miami-Dade College. and 4-M International For more information Productions, will feature Jamaica through the story of about the free program, call the world première of “Dub Smith, a poet, playwright, 954-357-7348. Poetry: The Life and Work actor and Miami-Dade County police officer. His ® Keeping the dream alive at Nova his painting Tby the late Oscar Thomas, titled “Keepers of the Dream” is currently on display in the Alvin Sherman Library on Nova Southeastern’s main campus in Broward County, Florida. From Feb. 8 to Mar. information about the tion of the 200th anniversary of 8 the library will highlight a “Keepers of the Dream” art the end of the Trans Atlantic collection of works from local exhibition, call 954-262-5357. Slave Trade, and in celebration high school students, which of the approaching Ethiopian recognizes the contributions • Film festival New Millennium. of the African diaspora to The first Florida Freedom Film If you miss this event, you can American history, politics, Festival, in observance of still get information about DVD spirituality, education, sports Black History Month, takes sales by calling 954-981-1176. and artistic expression. The place Feb. 9 at the Lauderdale student pieces were inspired Lakes Multi-Purpose Center. It by Thomas’s works. For more is being held in commemora- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 22)

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www.caribbeantoday.com BLACK HISTORY MONTH ~A Caribbean Today special feature ‘We’ve had a lot of progress’ FAST AND FAMOUS In the past, Caribbean people understand the history and the were often overlooked for their struggles of Afro Americans… accomplishments outside the We see great importance of that region during Black History linkage…We see a lot of political Month. Today there are commer- parallels, we see a lot of business cials promoting the achievements opportunities and we see a lot of of Bob Marley and Marcus cultural parallels that we need to Garvey in the U.S. Caribbean exploit.” Today recently asked immigrants to the U.S., Canada and the SHARON FFOLKES ABRA- United Kingdom about the HAMS, Canada: “What I see is importance of the month-long that Jamaicans lead the whole celebrations. discourse on black history in Canada. I have been invited to MARLON HILL, U.S.: “I think be a speaker in Brampton, in an Black History Month is still area just outside of Toronto. something that is rooting itself Many Jamaicans live there and within the Caribbean and the I’ve been invited to be a speaker Jamaican psyche. We’ve had a among many who will deal with lot of progress in the U.S. as Black History Month.” black people. Black Jamaicans in Canada and the U.K., we’ve a TRAVIS JOHNSON, United lot to celebrate, a lot to take Kingdom: “The United Kingdom note of in terms of our accom- does have its own Black History plishment.” Month which is in October, National Heroes Month…So DR. HAROLD MIGNOTT, most of the activities that we do, U.S.: “It’s critically important that relate to black people, is that we interface with African done within that month in Americans in the United States October…and a number of activ- - Peter Webley photograph in our various jurisdictions and ities are organized up and down understand their struggle and the country by the black commu- Jamaica’s world 100 meters record holder Asafa Powell, center, shares a moment with his country’s Consul General to the they get to understand our issues nity in October. The (Caribbean) Southern United States Ricardo Allicock, right, and the diplomat’s wife Suzanne, during a function held earlier this month in Miami and work together. Otherwise community is very involved in to honor the athlete and his coach Stephen Francis. Powell was named the IAAF’s best male athlete of 2006 after running 12 sub- we’re not going to be successful. most of the activities.” 10 second 100 meters races during the year. The event was organized by the Jamaican Diaspora Southern United States. So it’s important that Jamaicans ® Miami-Dade county offers events throughout February he Black Affairs Dade Transit featuring signifi- www.miamidade.gov/baab information, call 305-895-0335 mini film festival featuring Advisory Board cant black historical sites. For or visit www.themensemble.com films highlighting African T(BAAB), part of reservations or more informa- • Feb. 1-28 - Miami-Dade Americans/Africans either in Miami-Dade County’s Office tion, call 305-654-6545 or visit Schools’ Students Art Exhibit • Feb. 16 - 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - front or behind the camera of Community Relations, is www.miamidade.gov/tran- Amadlozi Gallery African African Marketplace Vendors along with a cultural dinner at presenting the following sit/blackhis.asp Heritage Cultural Arts Center and music at Stephen P. Clark Joseph Caleb Center 5400 events in the county during 6161 N.W. 22nd Ave. Call 305- Center Lobby 111 N.W. 1st St. N.W. 22nd Ave. For more Black History Month under • Feb. 1-28 - African 375-5730. For more information, call information, call 305-693-6236 the theme “From Slavery to American Timeline and 305-375-5730. or visit www.diaspo- Freedom: Africans in the Exhibit by Kinad, Inc. • Feb. 1-Mar. 11 - The M raartscoalition.org Americas”: Stephen P. Clark Center Ensemble Company, Inc. pres- • Feb. 17 - “African Kings & Lobby 111 N.W. 1st St. For ents “Indigo Blues: A Love Queens of Africa” fashion • Feb. 24 -10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - • Feb. 1-28 - Black History information, call 305-375-5730 Song” at 12320 W. Dixie show, food, vendors and music BHPC African Marketplace Tour sponsored by Miami- or visit www.kinad.com Highway, N. Miami. For more at First Baptist Center of featuring vendors and food at Brownsville. Call 786-873- the African Heritage Cultural 4638 or visit www.miami- Arts Center 6161 N.W. 22nd dade.gov/baab for more Ave. For information, call information. 305-375-5730 or visit www.miamidade.gov/baab • Feb. 22 - 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. - “ATaste of the Diaspora” ® Keeping the dream alive at Nova

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19) NASCAR’s two biggest events of the month – the Budweiser • NASCAR celebrates Shootout at Daytona on Feb. The National Association for 10 and the Daytona 500 on Stock Car Auto Racing Feb. 18. (NASCAR) has announced a For more information, con- month-long series of events to tact Josh Hamilton, NASCAR celebrate Black History Month Public Relations, 386-681-4285 and increase awareness about or [email protected] the sport among African American communities to help Compiled from various further diversify the sport. sources. The plans include intro- ducing students to the sport via ®

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POLITICS www.caribbeantoday.com Will crime be a major issue in T&T’s upcoming elections? IRENE MEDINA may be of little comfort to a must be well aware of those wife after complaining that that the crime situation could nation reeling under the situations. Since his PNM there was insufficient evidence become a stumbling block to PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - actions of criminals, so much party came into power five linking him with the crime. its efforts at winning another At 13 years old, Choc’late so that even the Opposition years ago, murders and kid- Justice Larry Lalla used the term in a widened Parliament, Allen is a very articulate leader has called for the nappings have increased occasion to call for the imple- which will now have 41 seats teenager. She is also a very resumption of hanging to despite millions of dollars mentation and use of the rather than the 36 in the past. confident person whether in serve as a deterrent. spent on beefing up crime pre- DNA technology warning “The only issue which at the company of Prime Complaining that the island vention, including the acquisi- “the criminals of today are this point presented a problem Minister Patrick Manning, was “under tion of air ships or blimps, the more sophisticated than 40 for the ruling party was crime,” Opposition Leader Kamla siege” from establishment of special crime years ago. said PNM Vice Chairman John Persad Bissessar, or the hun- criminals, she units and even the involve- “One cannot expect Donaldson, adding that crime dreds of school children who told a public ment of Britain’s Scotland police officers to solve crime has also presented a challenge joined her crusade at the meeting of Yard detectives. in 2007 with 1967 methods. for every political party. National Library last month to the main Figures show that in 2002 Over and over again I have “I want someone to say highlight the crime situation in Opposition there were 172 murders and asked the DPP’s (Director of how they would do better Trinidad and Tobago. United 27 abductions, but by the end Public Prosecution) Office to (than the PNM) if they were With the oil-rich republic National of 2005, those use its influence on the to be elected to office,” he recording 368 murders last Congress Manning figures had authorities. It is important said, adding the “PNM has year, and already into double (UNC) “the reached 397 that this legislation be been ready for general elec- figures so far this year, time has come once again murders and brought,” the judge added. tions for some time now.” Choc’late’s crusade under- where, given the spate of mur- a whopping When it agreed to the But the Opposition par- scores the concerns citizens ders, the time has come to 239 abduc- extension of the Bail Bill, the ties, which now include the have for the growing crime bring back the death penalty”. tions. COP said it was also giving breakaway COP, led by problem highlighted by mur- The last executions were In 2004, the Manning administration economist and former UNC ders and kidnappings for ran- done by the Basdeo Panday the Manning 90 days to bring the DNA and Leader Winston Dookeran, som. government from 1995-2001. administra- Bissessar other pieces of legislation to are not impressed. Perhaps, the most cele- As the country enters into tion spent an fight crime to the Parliament, UNC Chairman Wade brated case here is that of an election year, crime will no estimated TT$5.4 million or it could not bank on its Mark said the party, led businesswoman Vindra doubt be a major platform ($900,000) on a crime plan support for further extensions. once more by former Prime Naipial-Coolman, who was agenda. The private sector developed by U.S.-based crim- Religious organizations have Minister Basdeo Panday, who abducted from her home on groups, including the Trinidad inologist, Dr. Stephen also joined the fray and called is free on bail while appealing Dec. 19 and has not yet been and Tobago Chamber of Mastrofski that called for a on the authorities to do more a two-year jail sentence, is found despite her relatives Industry and Commerce, have revamping of the police serv- about the crime situation. ready for the polls whenever paying a significant amount openly called on the authori- ice, the provision of training They have also called on polit- Manning announces the date. of the TT$3 million ($500,000) ties to do something about the and restoration of public con- ical parties to distance them- “Whenever Mr. Manning ransom that her abductors crime situation that they said fidence in law enforcement selves from criminal elements. calls the election, it does not had demanded. was also driving their mem- authorities. But these meas- “Criminals should not be surprise anyone. We are ready, National Security Minister bers overseas and also affect- ures have so far proved futile. living in a luxurious way out willing and able to eat the Martin Joseph said that more ing investment. Moreover, the Opposition of taxpayers’ money. That is PNM raw,” he added. than 200 police officers and had at first refused to support immoral, Godless and it is For its part, the COP, soldiers, as well as a signifi- MARKET WARNING a package of legislation that reckless also,” warned Pastor which is still putting together cant amount of other Stockbrokers have also included a Police Reform Bill, Clive Dottin of the Seventh its machinery for the cam- resources, have been utilized warned that crime would most but even after the legislation Day Adventist Church - one paign, said it was nonetheless in the search for the 52-year- likely hamper returns on the was passed one year ago, it of many religious personalities ready to contest all 41 seats old chief executive officer local stock market in 2007, has not been assented to by brought together by a leading because it is aware that the of a major supermarket chain despite strong economic the president. businessman to develop a elections would come “sooner here. Recently, the police growth and a projected 10 united approach to crime. rather than later”. started draining a pond in percent growth on the local DIVISION central Trinidad, as part of stock market this year. It was an issue that fur- RE-ELECTION BLOCK - CMC the search. Speaking at a “Stock ther divided the Opposition The PNM has conceded In December last year, Market Trend 2007” seminar legislators in Parliament last ® Bert Arlette, a councillor last month, Caribbean Money month when the Congress of with the Port of Spain City Market Brokers (CMMB) the People (COP) party Council, was shot and killed Security Managing Director agreed to support an exten- while his colleague, Peter Robert Myers warned “there sion of the Bail Bill that John, was shot seven times but are some dark clouds on the allowed police to hold sus- survived. Mayor Murchison horizon,” with Ian Narine, pected kidnappers without Brown has received several managing director of Republic bail, while the UNC said it death threats and has had an Securities, said that crime and would not until the Manning additional security detail. the general elections could administration indicated when affect the exchange as some it would enact legislation HOLISTIC APPROACH investors may have no confi- including the DNA and others Choc’late says there needs dence to invest. “to really put a dent in crime”. to be a more holistic approach In December it was dis- “What we need to stop to the crime situation and closed that businessmen were the kidnappers was the gov- does not lay the blame solely being forced to pay extortion ernment to proclaim and at the feet of the ruling money or “coward tax” to implement a package of police People’s National Movement protect their families from legislation,” the Opposition (PNM). kidnappers. leader said, adding “the Bills “By using a holistic “While I do not agree would tackle the few bad approach you cannot blame with any businessman paying apples in the Police Service the politicians or the army or extortion tax altogether, some involved in kidnappings.” anyone. You have to take per- businessmen said they would The government has also sonal responsibility for your prefer to pay the extortion introduced Deoxyribonucleic actions,” she said at the end of fees as a security to ensure the Acid (DNA) legislation to the her five-day fast last month. safety of their family rather Parliament allowing for the Newspaper columnist than face the trauma of having police or other qualified per- B.C. Pires wrote “Choc’late a family member kidnapped,” sons to take non-intimate did more than most said Garvin Seemungal, samples without consent in Trinidadians in making a ges- president of the Greater certain cases. ture instead of merely com- Chaguanas Chamber of But recently, a High plaining about crime”. Commerce. Court judge freed a man on But Choc’late’s initiative Prime Minister Manning the charge of murdering his

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www.caribbeantoday.com REGION Controversy rages over corporal punishment in Caribbean schools TERRENCE ESSEBOOM Mike McCormack is on record groundless. He wrote last month: and the views of the religious losers!” fully supportive of the initiatives “It may be eye-opening to some community,” Corbin said. It was also found that the GEORGETOWN, Guyana - to outlaw corporal punishment, that the Convention does not He blames the breakdown in rate of reported physical abuse The Biblical injunction not to describing the rod “as a symbol mention the term ‘corporal pun- the wider society for contributing of children in Sweden increased spare the rod and spoil the child of power, not authority.” ishment’ at all. Article 28(2) to indiscipline, which has crept dramatically since corporal disci- has found its way at the center of McCormack has said that which is used as the basis for the into the school system. pline was outlawed in 1979. a controversy here. the practice call to abolish corporal punish- “I would not personally be A member of the minority of beating ment in schools states: in favor of legislating against the T&T’s PLAN Alliance For Change (AFC) has children, as a “‘States parties shall take all rights of parents and institutions In the Caribbean, Trinidad moved a motion in the House means of appropriate measures to ensure to exercise certain disciplinary and Tobago has commenced a calling for corporal punishment instilling dis- that school discipline is adminis- measures in the homes and some review of its decision to abolish in schools to be banned. But cipline, is tered in a manner consistent level of discipline in the flogging in schools. Education opponents of that position have “rooted in an with the child’s human dignity schools,” he said. authorities in the twin-island not spared the rod in beating outmoded and in conformity with the pres- Sweden legislated against republic appointed a six-member down the idea. concept of ent Convention’.’” corporal punishment in the late team “to devise a plan of action AFC legislator Chantelle the child He suggested this has conve- 1970s and rued the decision. The on a report which has called for Smith argued that corporal pun- (that he/she) niently been interpreted as apply- Families First Report concluded the reinstatement of corporal ishment is a violation of Article Corbin is always ing to corporal punishment. that the public concern was so punishment in schools”. 19 of the Convention on the abusive and great two decades after the land- Its findings showed that as a Rights of the Child, which always wrong.” DISAGREEMENT mark 1979 law that the two consequence of the decision stu- Guyana ratified since 1991. Smith Beating, he argued, only Politicians are themselves at Swedish lawyers, one the police dents became more vulnerable is also pushing for the Education imparts fear and suffering odds over banning beatings in chief at the time, urged the to illegal activities and skirmish- Ministry to recommend abolition (which) do not shape the charac- schools. nation to review the legislation. es with the police. of beating in schools under the ter of the child. Sometime ago, leader of the They wrote: “The law Recently, in Guyana, two stu- new Education Act, now under “(Beating) is an indication main Opposition People’s against the physical punishment dents violently attacked their national consideration. of a level of failure and should National Congress Reform One of children is dangerous and teachers in classrooms resulting in In its initial response, the never be an option (to parents Guyana (PNCR/1G) Robert must be repealed because it does lengthy hospitalization of the edu- Education Ministry said it is and educators) and should be Corbin spoke of the difficulty of more harm to the children than a cators. Some have accused the standing firm to retain corporal taken off the books altogether.” completely abolishing the prac- spanking from mother or father. AFC of ignoring such incidents in punishment in schools under its Roger Williams, a social tice here. When the authorities - social or its quest to push its own agenda. jurisdiction. commentator here, disagrees “Corporal punishment can- police - intervene in the life of a with the substantive argument of not be totally abolished and leg- well-functioning family, its life is - CMC ‘SYMBOL OF POWER’ Smith and McCormack, main- islated against in this country. It destroyed. There is nothing that Head of the Guyana Human taining that their reliance on the has its bearings in religious and can mend the hurt and pain and ® Rights Association (GHRA) United Nations Convention on other beliefs and one has to take the bitterness that the authorities the Rights of the Child is into account the cultural patterns cause, and the children are the New T&T passports to help fight crime, secure borders PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, which would also carry the had shown international crimes and illegal ports were confiscated by local CMC - Trinidad and Tobago Caribbean community that as more migration had been increasing, immigration authorities. He last month commissioned its (CARICOM) logo, were the developed prompting the International said the new passports would machine readable passports “first step in the implementa- countries Civil Aviation Organization be valid for five years, instead (MRP) in a move government tion of an integrated border strength- (ICAO) to introduce interna- of 10 years as “a measure to officials hailed as a crime fight- management system.” ened their tional standardization of pass- provide flexibility for the ing tool aimed at securing the national ports. upgrading of passport technol- twin island republic’s borders. CONCERN defense sys- ogy and to combat fraud.” National Security He said the government tems from AGREEMENT The passports are expect- Minister Martin Joseph, who was concerned about the vul- criminal Joseph Trinidad and Tobago, said ed to be fully implemented by launched the much-anticipat- nerability of the Caribbean activities, Joseph, was among 188 con- Dec. 31, 2009 but current ed passports, said he hoped region to transnational organ- perpetrators diverted their tracting states which agreed to passports, which are valid, that the new passports “will ized criminal networks and attention to this region. The introduce the new MRPs could still be used for travel. reduce, if not eliminate, such the increasing phenomenon of minister said in recent years before April 1, 2010. crimes as identity fraud.” identity fraud. the number of counterfeited or Joseph said between 1994 ® Joseph said the passports, Joseph said experience fraudulent passports used for and 2002, 745 fraudulent pass-

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EDUCATION www.caribbeantoday.com Caribbean universities seek partnerships, share benefits

EARL MOXAM exchanges between the librari- regional integration goals of the Benn (Michael Manley profes- ion the governance of CARI- ans of the two universities and governments of the Caribbean sor of public affairs and policy) COM,” the vice chancellor dis- KINGSTON, Jamaica - The sharing of books and journals community (CARICOM). of the UWI’s Mona campus closed. University of the West Indies received from external donors. In furtherance of those recently completed “a massive - CMC (UWI) has embarked on several The University of Guyana goals, he revealed, the UWI study” that will lead to recom- programs of cooperation with was established in 1963. This recently re-signed an enhanced mendations on how to “refash- ® the University of Guyana (UG), followed dis- memorandum of while downplaying suggestions satisfaction understanding that the two institutions are on a with the bene- with CARI- course towards amalgamation. fit Guyanese COM. That The themes of mutual were deriving understanding, respect and cooperative action from the coun- he said, was were emphasized by Professor try’s participa- aimed at E. Nigel Harris, vice chancellor tion in the addressing some of the UWI, during a recent UWI, estab- of the challenges interview with the Caribbean lished in 1948, Harris confronting the Media Corporation. initially as the region by pro- “What we decided was this: University College of the West viding expertise we wouldn’t go to the University Indies. of various kinds. of Guyana like knights on a white According to one estimate, The vice horse saying, ‘here, we have come only 97 Guyanese students chancellor dis- to save you’; that is an inappropri- graduated from the UWI during closed that Prof. ate approach. Instead we have the period 1948 to 1963, and, of Norman Girvan indicated that we are coming as that number, just 40 returned (of the Institute partners looking at ways to derive home after graduation. of International mutual benefits and mutual UG’s main Turkeyen cam- Relations at rewards, and I think that approach pus, located eight kilometers the UWI’s St. has worked very well,” Prof. from the capital Georgetown, Augustine cam- Harris said. has a student enrolment of pus) is heading a To that end, the two institu- approximately 5,000. A much university team tions, last year, signed a memoran- smaller campus is located in that is working dum of understanding, which led, Berbice. with counter- in September, to the introduction The UWI, with enrolment parts at CARI- of two UWI masters degree pro- of 36,000, has three main cam- COM towards grams at UG - one in construction puses - Mona in Jamaica, Cave comprehensive engineering; the other in planning Hill in Barbados, and St. implementation - delivered mainly by lecturers Augustine in Trinidad and of the CARI- from the UWI’s St. Augustine Tobago - in addition to a num- COM Single campus, along with their counter- ber of smaller operations in Market parts at UG. other territories. and Economy (CSME). Prof. ENCOURAGING MUTUAL SUPPORT Girvan, in a These courses were quickly While not entirely ruling statement at a taken up by Guyanese students, out the possibility of a full inte- conference in the vice chancellor reported, gration of the two universities, Barbados in “with 60 engineers and others in the future, Prof. Harris (who June 2006, registering.” This has encour- is Guyanese, by birth) said the asserted that the aged the two institutions to parties were focusing at this CSME “must explore other areas of coopera- time on “building a trusting, evolve rapidly tion. robust and mutually supportive into more than One of the initiatives “in partnership.” just an economic the works” will see University But the UWI’s outreach community; it of Guyana medical students program is not confined to the must be designed participating in the UWI’s mas- University of Guyana, according and implement- ters of science program in sur- to Prof. Harris. Steps were being ed as a social, gery in Barbados, while mem- taken, he said, to initiate similar environmental bers of the UWI’s Strategic collaboration with the and cultural Planning office will be collabo- University of Suriname (starting community.” rating with their counterparts at this year) and with universities Another UG. There have also been in Haiti. These initiatives, he team, led by said, were in keeping with the Prof. Denis DOUBLE READING PLEASURE

Isabella Buitron, left, and Alexa Rodriguez find something interesting to read during Miami Book Fair International festivities held downtown the South Florida city recently.

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www.caribbeantoday.com SPORT Jamaica, St. Kitts bid CARIBBEAN SOCCER KINGS for youth World Cup NEW YORK CITY, New St. Kitts and Nevis in the sec- York, CMC – Caribbean sides ond match. Two days later on Jamaica and St. Kitts and Nevis Feb. 23, Costa Rica takes on St. will face each other on the last Kitts and Nevis before Mexico competition day when the meets Jamaica. CONCACAF Under-20 Group The Group B series con- B finals are staged this month in cludes on Feb. 25 when St. Kitts Mexico. and Nevis plays against Jamaica CONCACAF confirmed the in the early game before Mexico fixtures for Group B of its Under- closes out against their Central 20 World Youth Championship American rivals Costa Rica. qualifying, which will be held at The top two teams in the the Carlos Gonzalez y Gonzalez group will advance to the 2007 Stadium in Culiacan from Feb. FIFA Under-20 World Cup 21-25. Finals in Canada from June 30 On Feb. 21, Jamaica will to July 22. Members of Haiti’s national team and fans celebrate with the trophy after beating Trinidad and Tobago 2-1 last month to win the open against Costa Rica in the Digicel Caribbean Cup for the first time and earn the title of top soccer nation in the region. Goals in each half by Alexandre early game, while Mexico faces ® Boucicaut and Brunel Fucien were enough for Haiti to hold off a strike by T&T’s Nigel Daniel in front of an estimated 18,000 crowd at Hasely Crawford Stadium. Cuba beat Guadeloupe by a similar scoreline to finish third in the final round of the tournament played in Trinidad. Cuba, …Haiti wins, but misses out meanwhile, earned its third place through a double strike by Alain Cervantes. Fabian Raddas scored the consolation goal for aiti beat Guatemala Panama could, later this Guadeloupe. 2-0 last month in month, be joined in the finals HPanama, but failed to by two other Caribbean teams. advance from its qualifying Jamaica and St. Kitts and Jamaican wins trainer’s title group to the finals of soccer’s Nevis will each seek one of 2007 under-20 FIFA World two top places in Group B in Youth Championship. Canada against Costa Rica and at Calder racetrack in Miami With the win, the Mexico. Group play will run Caribbean team finished at from Feb. 21-25 in Mexico. GORDON WILLIAMS championship and matched one dropped out of a Miami school the bottom of Group A in The finals of the under-20 of the accomplishments of his at age 14, but then joined his the CONCACAF qualifying World Youth Championships, irk Ziadie capped legendary Jamaican-born father father at Calder. He became a round behind the United a competition which has pro- Caribbean success in Ralph Ziadie, an outstanding licensed trainer in 2003. States, Panama and Guatemala. duced players who are among Ktwo major categories trainer based at Calder. The Kirk’s first winner was The U.S. and Panama became the biggest stars of today’s of “Tropical at Calder” when elder Ziadie has won numerous Scottish Bubbly, who he had the 11th and 12th teams to game, will be played from the Jamaican held on down stakes races and trainer’s titles in claimed for $10,000. The make the finals to be played in June 30 to July 22 in Canada. the stretch to narrowly win the the United States and Jamaica. horse won five straight races Canada this summer. trainer’s title at last month’s thor- at Calder before the trainer However, the U.S. and ® oughbred meet in South Florida. sold her for $75,000. Ziadie saddled winning Since then the trainer has mounts at an astonishing rate of had growing success, including 53 percent, as 25 of his 47 teaming up with promising entries passed the post first in apprentice Bridgmohan, who the meet at Calder Race Course rode 110 winners to shatter the in Miami. He edged veteran previous meet record of 84 wins trainer William P. White by a during “Tropical”, which start- single winner to earn the title in ed late last year. a stirring duel that extended to However, early last month “Tropical’s” last day. Bridgmohan’s career suffered a The trainer’s title matched serious setback when he was the achievement of teenage injured after being thrown apprentice Jermaine Bridgmohan, Kirk Zaidie from his mount during a race another Jamaican, who was the at Gulfstream Park in Florida. meet’s leading rider. According to The younger Ziadie credit- Kirk Ziadie told Caribbean Ziadie, the two had earlier target- ed his title win to the collective Today he expected Bridgmohan ed a sweep of the top honors. work of his group, including to be out of the saddle for “Bridgmohan and myself owners, riders and other staff. months. kind of planned it at the begin- “It was a team effort,” said ning of the meet that we would Ziadie, who has horses stabled Gordon Williams is Caribbean win and it came true,” the at Calder and in Tampa, Florida. Today’s managing editor. trainer told Caribbean Today. Ralph Ziadie moved Kirk, then age nine, and other mem- ® TEAMWORK bers of his family to South It was the 38-year-old’s first Florida in the late 1970s. Kirk SPORT BRIEFS • Windies rugby team for reasons, last month withdrew as en 3-1 by India in the regional U.S. tourney chief executive officer designate team’s final one-day tournament The West Indies Rugby Sevens for the West Indies Cricket Board before Cricket World Cup, which team will play in the International (WICB), a post he had accepted will be hosted by the Caribbean. Rugby Board’s United States and was set to take up at the The Windies lost the first two Sevens tournament. beginning of this month. games of the series in India, ral- A 12-member squad will The WICB accepted his rea- lied to win the third, but was then play in San Diego, California Feb. sons for withdrawing and is crushed in the final match to com- 10-11. The West Indies will face scheduled to review the matter at plete a disappointing tournament. Fiji, Argentina and Scotland in the its next meeting in Barbados in opening pool games. mid-February. Compiled from CMC and other sources. • CEO of WICB steps down • Windies trounced in India Dr. Roland Toppin, citing personal The touring West Indies was beat- ®

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CRICKET WORLD CUPCUP www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today special feature World Cup says ‘no’ to racism EYES ON THE BALL orld Cup organizers “Everyone associated event will show that to the are keen to ensure with Cricket World Cup needs world,” said Clark. Wthat this year’s com- to familiarize themselves with petition, slated for Mar. 5 the document so they know SUPPORT through April 28 in the what will and will not be toler- WICB Corporate Secretary Caribbean, will be free of ated. All LOCs have already Tony Deyal underlined the racist behavior or abuse. been provided the code and it board’s support for the code, In keeping with the new has been sent to CWC’s offi- stating that “WICB is pleased it ICC Anti-Racism Code – cial tour and travel operator – has been enforced and will be in unanimously approved by the Cricket Logistics – so they use during the tournament.” international cricketing body can forward it to the OTAs He also disclosed that, fol- last November – tournament (official travel agents). lowing CWC 2007, WICB will organizers will be working in “CWC will be using vari- be responsible for implement- conjunction with the West ous workshops, training ses- ing the code and will do so Indies Cricket Board (WICB), sions and directorate meet- vigorously. which is an ICC full member ings, between now and tour- “WICB is fully supportive and host of the event, to nament time, to continue this of this policy and we will be implement the code in accor- staff sensitization process. working with all stakeholders dance with ICC guidelines. CWC does not anticipate any in West Indies cricket, espe- CWC’s Event Management difficulty in getting the mes- cially the territorial boards, to Department (EMD), along with saging across because, as ensure strict adherence to it,” the nine Local Organising (CWC’s Managing Director) said Deyal. Committees (LOCs), will take Chris Dehring has already the lead in match-day imple- noted, racism is not a part of ® mentation; putting in place vari- Caribbean culture – and this ous policies and measures to highlight the code.

GUIDE Windies names squad “A guide has been pro- ICC CWC 2007 Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehring, left, and the competition’s Chairman Kenneth Gordon, focus on the issues during a vided by ICC for successful for Cricket World Cup meeting with the new St. Lucian Cabinet last month in Castries. According to implementation of the code Dehring, the St. Lucia government has pledged its full support for CWC 2007. and we propose to follow he West Indies has Ryan Hinds, Wavell Hinds, that,” explained Trudy Clark, selected an initial 30- Sylvester Joseph, Brian manager of CWC’s EMD. man squad to prepare Lara, Rawl Lewis, Dave “There will be signs at all T for ICC Cricket World Cup Mohammed, Runako Morton, points of entry and at the 2007 to be staged in the Darren Powell, Keiron CWC ‘Sing Along’ public information booths Caribbean beginning next Pollard, Deneish Ramdin, to remind spectators that Darren Sammy, Marlon month. f you hear voices other nament’s signature song. racially abusive behavior is Samuels, Ramnaresh Sarwan, The players, listed in than Rupee, Shaggy and Depending on how well not acceptable. In addition, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne alphabetical order are: Omari Fay Ann Lyons belting out participants perform the match day staff will be vigilant Banks, Carlton Baugh, Ian R. Smith, Devon S. Smith, I the lyrics of “The Game of song, they win different CWC and will report any incidences Jerome Taylor and Gavin Bradshaw, Dwayne Bravo, Love and Unity” across the prizes. In some instances, the of racist behavior in line with Patrick Browne, Shivnarine Tonge. the code to the relevant Caribbean’s airwaves, don’t be Sing Along segments will Chanderpaul, Corey A final 15-member squad include brief chats with authorities.” will be selected for the tour- alarmed – it’s just fun-loving Collymore, Narsingh persons taking a turn in the officials from the Local Another critical feature of Deonarine, Travis Dowlin, nament. the plan is to make sure all ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 Organizing Committees or Fidel Edwards, Rayad Official Song Sing Along. the artistes themselves. CWC personnel and contrac- Emrit, Christopher Gayle, ® tors are briefed on the code. The promotional cam- “This is a promotional paign, which began in Jamaica, blitz to bring greater awareness St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the song and the event in and Trinidad and Tobago last general as we get closer to Volunteers showing right vibes month, will also hit the other the tournament, with the open- six host venues, as well as three ing ceremony…,” explained major Caribbean diaspora ICC CWC 2007 Marketing as start of CWC draws closer markets – Miami, New York Manager Damon Leon. and Toronto. Leon said the Sing Along ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 this will be a successful pro- major exercise. Obviously, CWC’s Sing Along fea- was timed to coincide with the Volunteer Program Manager gram. This morning we have volunteers in countries hosting tures listeners calling in to var- build-up to Phase 3 of public Peter McIntosh said he is had the volunteer coordinators warm-up matches will have ious radio stations, trying to ticketing on Feb. 1. “very happy” with prepara- giving a review of the program their ‘Kitting-Out Days’ first, match the musical high of the tions for the CWC VIBES status in each of their coun- while those which have Super three stars on “The Game of ® program and believes it will tries and everything is going 8 matches, will be kitted out Love and Unity” – the tour- be a “shining success” come well,” reported McIntosh. during the tournament,” tournament time. Regarding the ongoing explained McIntosh. Speaking at the recent summit – the final meeting of Other issues slated for three-day CWC VIBES volunteer coordinators before discussion during the summit Summit in Antigua, he said the event – he said the focus were: safety protocols, stadia the 4,300 volunteers recruited is to nail down as much of the evacuation simulation, radios throughout the nine host ven- operational issues as possible and communication policy, ues are “very motivated” and and to finalize the “Kitting- ICC Anti-Racism Code, train- ready to undertake the vari- Out Day” program. The latter ing of assessors, certification ous tasks for which they have will be rolled out across the and volunteer breakaway been chosen. host venues, according to venues and catering. “I am abundantly confi- when each country has dent that the CWC VIBES matches and volunteers will ® team (as tournament volun- be provided with full uni- teers are known) will execute forms. their jobs very well and that “This is going to be a

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CRICKET WORLD CUP www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today special feature CARIBBEAN CALLS CANADA More laws needed for CWC ~ B’dos A.G. BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Information System - a key implement legislation to deal CMC - Some Caribbean com- component of society under with this. munity (CARICOM) govern- the common domestic space - The attorney general said ments will have to return to and to facilitate the deploy- various international countries their Parliaments to introduce ment of international security were providing specialized secu- additional legislation to facili- experts across the region. rity officials to supplement the tate next month’s Cricket World Marshall said some coun- work of regional lawmen to Cup, Barbados Attorney tries, particularly in Europe, make the games secure and leg- General Dale Marshall has had objected to the volume of islation would have to be passed revealed. personal information being to facilitate their involvement. He said the “Sunset type” requested of their nationals as The games are being legislation would have to be part of the advanced notifica- played in nine Caribbean coun- introduced to alleviate a tion system, and the Barbados tries Mar. 5 to April 28. potential roadblock with Parliament, like others across the Advanced Passenger the region, would be asked to ®

The St. Lucia Tourist Board, in partnership with the Canadian Cricket Association, is wooing Canada’s cricket fans to support their players next month during the ICC Jamaica defends visa use for CWC Cricket World Cup. The island’s Director of Tourism Maria Fowell and Dr. Ernest Hilaire, chief executive officer of Cricket World Cup, St. Lucia Inc., are expected in KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC - he added. they have cleared immigration Toronto this month for a special “Farewell Dinner” held in support of the Canadian National Security Minister Dr. and customs at their first port of team, which plays against Kenya, New Zealand and England in the first round of the competition in St. Lucia from Mar. 14 to 24, 2007. St. Lucia also hosts one of the Peter Phillips has defended the TOURISM THREAT entry to freely travel to and CWC semifinals on April 25. Photograph shows Dr. Hilaire, left, sporting Canada’s decision of the Caribbean com- Tourism officials in some of within all of the other nine cricket colors presented by Ben Sennik, president of the Canadian Cricket munity (CARICOM) govern- the nine Caribbean states host- countries as if they were a single Association. ments to implement a visa ing the Mar. 5 to April 28 games, nation. requirement for persons coming But in Jamaica, where a to attend the Cricket World Cup record three million stay-over 2007, saying it is part of the visitors came to the island last Restricted access strategies being used to ensure year, the government is under The following is a list of size of 1.5 x 1m (5’ x 3’) pro- the security of the region. pressure from hoteliers and items, which are prohibited or vided that, in the opinion of “While there is no doubt Opposition politicians to with- restricted at ICC CWC 2007 CWC 2007, they are not vul- that there are some sectors that draw from the Caribbean com- match venues: gar, political, racial, discrimi- will be inconvenienced by the munity (CARICOM) agree- natory, sexual in nature, or new visa regime, the fact is that ment requiring visitors to PROHIBITED ITEMS display advertising which it is necessary in order to ensure acquire the $100 special visa The following shall not be may in any way impinge or the security of Cricket World attending the event. permitted to be brought into will be in conflict with the Cup in the context of a single Phillips, who is chairman CARICOM space,” Phillips said of CARICOM’s Resource any ICC CWC 2007 venue, rights of the partners/spon- in a radio and television broad- Mobilization sub-committee for except where officially sors/suppliers/vendors of the cast recently. Crime and Security, said he has authorized: event (in any language) or Phillips “We have done everything, worked along with his CARI- deemed to be offensive to working with our CARICOM say visa requirements for per- COM colleagues to mobilize 1. Firearms, knives, danger- other spectators. partners to facilitate the inter- sons visiting the region during support from the international ous and imitation weapons. est of the tourist trade and the 58-day event could have the community to assist the region 5. Cooler boxes – permitted other stakeholders, but we effect of eroding the industry. with providing the security for 2. Explosives, incendiary provided they are not larger should never underestimate the The Caribbean govern- the games. devices, fireworks and flares. than 12”X12”x12”; must be extent to which the world has ments have designated the nine soft and collapsible; no hard become a dangerous place states as a “Single Domestic ® 3. Alcohol, illegal drugs or or rigid cooler boxes of any since September 11, 2001,” Space” allowing visitors, once narcotics. size are permitted.

4. Cans, tins, or PET (plas- 6. Glass containers – not tic) bottles of any size or permitted, other than those COLLECTIVE SECURITY description, other than insect containing perfume, pre- repellent or sun screen. scription medication or insect repellent. 5. Mace or pepper spray. 7. Radios – not permitted 6. Megaphones, compressed other than small transistor air or gas-operated horns. radios with ear – or head- phones. 7. Flag poles 8. Umbrellas – only collapsi- RESTRICTED ITEMS ble personal umbrellas per- 1. Aerosol cans – not per- mitted. Large umbrellas mitted, other than those con- (e.g. golf, beach) are not per- taining deodorant, prescrip- mitted. tion medication or insect repellent. 9. Any other objects or items or substances that may be 2. Animals – only guide- deemed in the discretion of dogs permitted. ICC CWC WI 2007 Inc. to be offensive, disruptive, dan- 3. Bands and musical instru- gerous or likely to infringe ments – permitted only with any party’s rights or any written permission from the party’s safety or security or appropriate Local any dangerous article or Organizing Committee. substance not referred to Dr. Basil K. Bryan, arms outstretched, consul general of Jamaica, makes a point during a recent briefing on security arrangements for Cricket World Cup 2007 in the Caribbean. The briefing of consuls general and permanent representatives to the United Nations above. from CARICOM member states, which took place at the Trinidad and Tobago’s permanent mission in the United States, was con- 4. Banners and flags – per- ducted by Colonel Antony B. Anderson, regional operations commander, CARICOM Operations Planning and Coordinating Staff mitted only up to a maximum ® (COPACS). CWC begins next month.