Caribbean Newspaper

1. FREE!
NEWS YOU CAN USE ! Vol. 7 No. 6 · No. ·
Vol. December 2010
More than 7,000 secret cables
on the Caribbean
T
here are some 7,000 secret documents the general Caribbean population are eagerly
about Caribbean Community awaiting news of the contents of the cables
(CARICOM) member states and the Do- which reportedly include recent issues such as
minican Republic among the more than Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s concerns
250,000 confidential United States diplomatic about Iranian ties to the Caribbean, Haiti’s
cables which are to be released by Wikileaks in President Rene Preval’s concerns about having
the coming months, sources close to the Wik-
to live in exile after general elections held last
ileaks investigation have told Caribbean Sun. month, former Trinidad and Tobago Prime
“These seven thousand or more documents Minister Patrick Manning’s meetings in Trini-
relate to several issues and personalities in- dad with former US Secretary of Homeland
cluding drug trafficking, gun running, human Security Michael Chertoff, Guyana President
nationals and Caribbean American owned busi- Bharat Jagdeo’s conversations with Columbia’s
rights violations, terrorism, espionage, visa
fraud and the personal lives of several govern- nesses in the United States with close ties to President Uribe, the activities of drug lords
their countries of origin.
ment, civic and business leaders,” these usual- Roger Khan of Guyana, “Little Nut” of St. Kitts
ly reliable sources said. Some of the cables Caribbean governments, present and former and Nevis and “Dudus” Coke of Jamaica,
may also include information about Caribbean government officials and politicians as well as among others. -Continued on Page 15-
Barbershop raids outrage the community
By Roger Caldwell
purpose of these sweeps. It is obvious that in different
Since August 17, 2010, there has been a series of communities, compliance evaluations were handled in a
“unorthodox inspections” in the African-American com- much more orderly fashion with a positive tone.
munity, including the Caribbean American community
Caribbean American community leaders are among those
that borders on a violation of civil rights. These inspec-
who are outraged at this series of raids which targeted
tions have jailed 35 barbers, who Sheriff Jerry Demings
some Caribbean
admitted at a press conference
American owned
should have received citations. “… I was crying for my mommy...”
barbering estab-
“I would prefer that we not lishments and
make custodial arrests for these minor violations,” he beauty salons. They welcome the announced intention of
said. The majority of these arrests received a misdemean- Congresswoman Corrine Brown (D-FL) to pursue this
or charge of “barbering without a license.” Demings said matter further.
if his agency could conduct the operation over again, dep-
Among the establishments raided was a Caribbean Ameri-
uties would have issued orders to appear in court.
can owned beauty salon in the Pine Hills area. During that
This campaign was theoretically a joint operation with an raid, a child was forced to witness his mother manhandled
agency, the Department of Business and Professional by deputies, later handcuffed and put to sit in the back
Regulations, but appeared in certain targeted communities seat of a police cruiser. She was released at the scene
a police raid. In many of the shops, certain barbers were without being charged.
handcuffed even before they were inspected to determine
“I was crying,” said the child who related the entire epi-
if they were in compliance.
sode to Caribbean Sun. The establishment’s owner said
relevant authorities. Community leaders are of the view
Many of the owners are upset with the treatment by the the entire operation was caught on camera and is being
that there is a need in the - Continued on Page 4
deputies, and they want to know what was the basis and shared with Congresswoman Brown’s office and other
Barrel Blues!! DREAM Act is Reality for
K
aren Alleyne had her barrel her family back in Guyana hadn’t re-
picked up from her Kis- ceived the barrel. And calls to the ap-
simmee home in early No-
vember for shipment in time for the
parently unregistered shipping broker
she used have yielded no results, only
excuses and empty promises.
Undocumented Youths
A similar experience has been shared By: Gail Seeram
B
by Chris Mc Kenzie whose shipment
oth the House of Representatives The Development, Relief, and Education for
to Jamaica is still to arrive, according
and the Senate took action on the Alien Minors Act, or “DREAM Act,” would
to his loved ones back home. The un-
DREAM Act recently. On De- allow the 65,000 young undocumented stu-
registered shipper he used tells him his
cember 8, 2010, the DREAM Act dents who graduate high school each year to
family is not telling the truth, the bar-
was passed by the House of Representatives start a pathway to citizenship after complet-
rels did arrive and were uplifted
by a vote of 216 to 198. On December 9, ing two years of college or military service.
though no documentary evidence to
2010, the Senate voted to table a vote on While both bills (H.R. 6497 and S. 3992) are
support this has been produced. their version of DREAM Act. The Senate similar to the original versions of the
Both Alleyne and Mc Kenzie, who should vote on the DREAM Act before the DREAM Act introduced in each chamber,
usually ship barrels back home with end of the year. they differ in key ways. Under the Senate
Laparkan and Finlay’s respectively, - Continued on Page 4
holiday season. Up to December 10, Continued on Page 4

2. “My husband should have
won Best Presentation”
says Keeran Ramnarain
T
housands turned out for Orlando’s 5th an- their tent not only enjoyed their curry duck but
nual Curry Duck Curry competition held also the cook-up rice. “Perhaps there should be a
Caribbean Community Must last month at the Citrus Bowl which saw cook-up rice and jerk competition alongside the
Stand Up more than 15 entries, the highest number since
the competition was started.
T
here are several Carib- deportation and other issues And as usual with any competition, the judges’
bean American commu- affecting our community. In decisions are always questioned by segments of
nity organizations recent years there has been no the audience, who usually have their own favor-
throughout Florida, including activity of this sort. ites. But one common view amongst most of the
Central Florida. Most of these thousands that turned out was that Kash Ramna-
Over the past few months there rain should have won Best Presentation, a senti-
organizations and associations
have been raids by law enforce- ment his wife Keenan spoke with Caribbean Sun
identify the preservation and
ment and regulatory agencies about in an exclusive interview.
promotion of Caribbean cul-
of barber shops and beauty sa-
ture as among their major ob- “The judges probably felt that in order to appear
lons owned by African Ameri-
jectives. Most of these organi- fair and transparent they had to allow some of Contestants at the Duck Curry Competition
cans and Caribbean Americans.
zations do fairly good work in the new contestants to win. Kash has won sever-
The Caribbean American com- al times. But the presentation was there for all to
the social, cultural and humani-
munity in Central Florida has see…our presentation was the crowd favorite,” curry duck competition,” said Wesley Kirton who
tarian spheres.
been silent on this issue. We she told Caribbean Sun. was among the Caribbean American community
However, within the Caribbean have not reached out to our Af- leaders enjoying the event.
American community in Cen- rican American brothers and Kash’s presentation boasted an ice-sculptured
tral Florida these Caribbean sisters to offer support even duck, chinaware, silver cutlery and unique linens This year’s first prize winner was Guyanese Indra
American organizations have though some of our own have which portrayed the highest standards of dining. Persaud who walked away with $1,000 cash as
failed to be promoters and pro- been victims. Where are our “Is duck curry or curry duck dining held to a dif- well as a trophy donated by Accounting and
Computer Services, Inc. owned by Philip Scantle-
tectors of the rights of members community leaders? When Car- ferent standard,” asked Mrs. Ramnarain. “If this
is the case then the criteria should me made clear. bury and a gold chain with a pendant in the form
of the community. Caribbean ibbean Sun contacted some
If duck curry eating is seen to be more of a back- of a duck designed and donated by Singh’s Jewel-
Americans are racially profiled, Caribbean community leaders ry World. Last year’s winner, Nadia Khan placed
yard or bottom house rustic experience then that
business places are targeted by about these raids, many were- should be explained. For us, the presentation for second this year while Dave Lall placed third and
law enforcement agencies and n’t even aware these raids had dining requires the highest standards and that’s also copped the Best Presentation prize.
often other ethnic groups bene- taken place. what we put out,” she added.
fit from the programs and get The cultural entertainment was diverse and ener-
As a New Year dawns, and as Mrs. Ramnarain said that her husband, father-in- gizing with patrons, including toddlers gyrating to
free access to the facilities of
the political and human rights law and the rest of the team that worked on pre- the performances by Soca Elvis, Andy Singh and
City, County and State govern-
challenges facing minority paring the presentation are not disappointed that the popular Supertones.
ments while Caribbean Ameri-
populations intensify, our com- they didn’t win and will continue to support the
cans usually have to pay to ac- Organizer of the event, Vani Chattergoon of
munity organizations and their event.
cess these facilities and pro- Vani’s Productions thanked patrons, sponsors,
leaders need to be more proac-
grams. Many friends of the Ramnarain’s who visited contestants and exhibitors for their support and is
tive about the issues that affect
encouraging
In true Caribbean style our or- our people. These organiza- the business
ganizations seem more focused tions need to stand up and pro- community
on fetes, concerts and fun in the tect the rights of the people to support
park. The number of political they are intended to serve. No next year’s
and advocacy programs and wonder no Caribbean associa- competition
events put on by Caribbean tion attracts 100 people at their which is
American associations is mini- monthly meetings, although slated for
mal. About five years ago there there are thousands of Caribbe- November
were some positive signs an nationals in Central Florida. 12.
emerging through the Confer-
No wonder the Mayor of Ocoee
ence of Heads of Caribbean
once said at the opening of the
Organizations of Central Flori-
Caribbean American Business
da. Meetings were arranged
Expo that he liked Caribbean
between law enforcement
people because they are so fun-
agencies, Consuls General and
loving.
community leaders to discuss
issues such as racial profiling,
Kash Ramnarain & Mr. Ramnarain Sr. in his tent with the beautiful Ice Sculpture
Florida’s Caribbean Sun is published by Caribbean Sun Publishers, LLC
1013 N. Pine Hills Road, Orlando, FL 32808
Phone (407) 374-2979
Email: caribbeansunnews@gmail.com
Administrative Manager: Melinda Gordon
Advertising: Vanessa Chin Churaman (407) 325-5466
Managing Editor: Laverne McGee
Lifestyles Editor: Sharazade Kirton
www.floridascaribbeansunnews.com
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 2

3. Caribbean needs to plan for disasters-PJ Patterson Patterson re- chemical and nuclear spills in a heavily have been as severe had there been appro-
marks came in trafficked sea – populated with exotic spe- priate building systems in place.
a major ad- cies of plants, animals and fish;
dress he deliv-  We need to have a quick response
Trafficking in drugs, psychotropic sub- disaster management plan in place which
ered at the just
stances and trading in small arms. In addi- can be speedily activated and smoothly
concluded 34th
tion, we are all vulnerable to the lurking implemented.
annual Miami
dangers of climate change with the disas-
Conference on
the Caribbean.
trous possibility of rising waters and en-  The heavy reliance on non-
dangered coastlines. Within the last twenty governmental organizations (NGOs) to
Pointing to years, the region has faced at least three handle a massive response effort requiring
January’s dev- threats from disastrous diseases – the Pink total coordination is excessive and there-
astating earth- Mealy Bug, the Mad Cow Disease and the fore inadequate to cope with a series of
quake in Haiti Foot and Mouth Disease. major disasters.
as a vivid ex-
We need to develop appropriate protocols  We need to ensure that mechanisms
ample, Patter-
and common approaches to deal with all are in place to deal with the rush of inter-
son said the
kinds of epidemic and thereby minimize national assistance during the emergency
Caribbean
arbitrary actions by individual member phase, in order to avoid chaos.
Basin is one of
states. There are several lessons to be
the largest
PJ Patterson (right) with Jerrit Schotte the new prime Minister of learnt from the cataclysmic disaster Haiti  We need to establish effective com-
semi enclosed
Curacao during the recent Miami Conference on the Caribbean suffered last January. munication systems, resistant to disasters
seas in the
F
world, rimmed First, we must recognize that it is possible and prepared to keep the population in-
ormer Jamaica Prime Minister formed about steps being taken and what
by some 23 sovereign states and over half for one or several of our countries to be
Perceval J. Patterson has warned can be expected at every stage. This dia-
as many non-independent entities con- impacted by more than one hazard at the
that the Caribbean region is vul-
trolled by four metropolitan states. same time. Haiti has been hit by the earth- logue must be continuous and allow for
nerable to several potentially
devastating hazards more than one of quake, storm and flooding and the cholera feedback from the population.
The former prime minister added: “The
which could hit a single country at the epidemic. Other parts of the region have  Environmental concerns must be ad-
Caribbean Basin is subject to a range of
had to deal with hurricanes, storms, flood- dressed as a matter of national and region-
same time. hazards including
ing, droughts and volcanoes. Limited ca-
al priority.
He is urging that Caribbean countries col- a. Geological hazards such as earth- pacity exists for mobilizing emergency
lectively work to put in place mechanisms quakes, volcanoes, landslides and tsuna- response, rescue and security personnel,  We must determine beforehand how
to ensure the least possible impact result- mis; but there are no overall coordinating ar- to address the post emergency phase…
ing from disasters. Among the mecha- rangements. quickly putting in place transition strate-
nisms identified are the adoption and en- b. Weather related hazards such as hurri- gies which focus on key priority areas
forcement of proper building codes; the canes, tropical storms, floods, mudslides, Our preparation strategies should ensure such as provision of temporary housing
establishment of effective communication droughts, fires and insect infestations; several essentialities:
and the removal of debris and rubble.
systems and urgent and efficient tackling  We need to adopt and enforce proper
of a number of environmental issues. c. Hazards such as the possibilities of
building codes. The devastation would not
New Cuban Drug
A
Cuban government sponsored pilot project to The project is based on the use of a so-called
treat diabetic foot ulcers has been hailed as a ma- wonder drug, Heberprot-P, developed by the
jor success following trials in St Lucia, the BBC Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnolo-
Caribbean reports. gy in Cuba.
St Lucia is the only country in the Eastern Caribbean to
benefit from the initiative.
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 3

4. Barbershop raids outrage the DREAM Act is Reality for
community Undocumented Youths
-Continued from Page 1- Continued from Page 1
targeted communities, where the treat- image of our barbershops, and make
version (S. 3992) of the DREAM Act, ap- degree from a U.S. institution of higher
ment was too aggressive, to open up them a positive integral part of the
plicants are treated as conditional nonimmi- education or complete at least 2 years of a
the lines of communication. Having a community. grants for ten years before being allowed to bachelor’s degree program; or (2) serve in
press conference to acknowledge a apply for permanent residence. The House the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 2 years,
Stopping the unorthodox evaluations is
glitch in the system does not make the version (H.R. 6497) breaks this status up and, if discharged, receive an honorable
the right thing to do. The Orange
different barbers, who impacted by the
County Police Department must edu- into two five-year periods, and requires discharge.
sweeps, feel whole. students to apply for an extension of their
cate the barbers on the correct proce-
It is important that respect is developed dures and proper channels to issue a conditional nonimmigrant status after the According to the Congressional Budget
with the police, the regulators and the complaint. After the internal investiga- first five-year period has elapsed. Under the Office (CBO), the House version of the
barbers. Many deputies think that some tions are complete, it is necessary for House version, the applicants would have DREAM Act (H.R. 6497) would reduce
barbershops are fronts for illegal activi- our community leaders to sit down and to pay a $525 surcharge on the initial appli- deficits by about $2.2 billion and increase
ty, and this can be true in some instanc- make recommendations to resolve the cation and a $2,000 surcharge at the begin- revenues by $1.7 billion over the 2011-
es. But during these sweeps illegal ac- controversy and the issues with the ning of the second five year period. The 2020 period. The Senate version of the
tivity was very limited, and treatment barbershop sweeps. Senate version establishes one ten-year DREAM Act (S. 3992) would reduce defi-
in certain targeted communities was period of conditional nonimmigrant status cits by about $1.4 billion and increase reve-
Sheriff Jerry Demings took a step for- without either fee. nue by $2.3 billion over the 2011-2020
unwarranted.
ward by acknowledging that his office period.
As we move forward with enforcement could have handed the situation better. In general, The DREAM Act would allow
agencies, there is a need to collaborate qualified young people to adjust their status It is estimated that roughly 2.1 million indi-
with the police, and make our barber- It is now necessary for the community to that of a conditional permanent resident viduals would meet the DREAM Act’s
shops information centers and health to take a step forward and work togeth-
if they have: (1) entered the U.S. before the basic age, length of residence, and age of
centers for men in the community. By er, and resolve this confrontational age of 16; (2) been physically present in the arrival requirements upon enactment. Ad-
reaching forward, we can change the situation. U.S. for a continuous period of not less ditionally, passage of the DREAM Act will
than 5 years immediately preceding the increased enrollment in colleges and uni-
Cont’d……….. Barrel Blues !!
were lured to use another company this which included failure to deliver cargo
date of enactment; (3) earned a high-school
diploma or its equivalent; (4) been a person
of good moral character; and (5) no crimi-
versities, increased enrollment in the U.S.
armed forces, keep talented students in the
U.S., and provide individuals an opportuni-
time because of the low prices this com- and refusal to return the pre-paid ocean nal record and are not a danger to national ty to raise their standard of living and con-
pany was charging. freight; loss of cargo; significant delay in
security. tribute to the tax system.
delivery; charges for insurance that was
“I thought I would take the chance. I
never obtained and inflated charges after Additionally, to have the conditional basis The passage of the DREAM Act is a win
shipped two barrels and in these times the
the cargo was tendered. of their permanent resident status lifted, for undocumented youths and for our strug-
savings were significant. I hope I haven’t
students would have to satisfy one of the gling economy.
lost everything. This company is even Among the recommendations of the In-
following requirements: (1) earn a 2-year
insured and bonded so I don’t know if I terim Report are increased consumer edu-
can even file a claim,” Mc Kenzie said. cation and the implementation of joint
law enforcement efforts to protect con-
The issue of unregistered freight forward-
ing companies has long been an issue
sumers. Michael Khouri, the FMC St. Margaret’s Sea Scouts in Trinidad
Commissioner who spearheaded the
which the Federal Maritime Commission
(FMC) has been trying to address. But
recent investigation on which the Inter- rebuilding their community
im Report is based said that the new
the registered, licensed and bonded
measures to be taken address a consum- Lyma Dunbar
freight forwarders feel the FMC need to
er protection issue that “affects many
target these illegal operators more ag-
average citizens. He said enforcement With a renewed mission to empower the youth in the community, the St. Margaret’s
gressively. efforts would be intensified against
Sea Scouts named after the village it represents, located on the outskirts of San Fer-
At a meeting in Washington, DC on De- rogue operators.
cember 8, the FMC considered and ap- nando in South Trinidad; reactivated their membership under the zealous guidance
During the peak holiday season, legiti-
proved for immediate action a number of of Anselm “Slim” Callender. At an event in November, at the St. Margaret’s Com-
mate operators such as Laparkan are
recommendations contained in an Interim
making every effort to ensure that con- munity Center, some of these gentlemen ceremoniously gathered to officially an-
Report on the nature, scope and frequen-
signees get their cargo in time for the nounce the return of the Sea Scouts, and their mandate.
cy of potentially unfair, unlawful and
holidays. These companies, as well as
deceptive practices in the shipping of
the ports in the various Caribbean coun- In existence for sixty years, the St. Margaret’s Sea Scouts has over the years seen
household goods and personal property.
tries are working extended hours and some of the village’s finest pass through its ranks, many of whom are now in their
Between 2005 and 2009 the FMC re-
throughout weekends to clear the holi-
ceived over 2,500 consumer complaints fifties. Men such as Andrew Alves, Godfrey John, Valentine George, Renny Forde,
day congestion.
Glenn Young and the current President of the Village Council, Colin George.
“Slim” Callender, also the manager of entertainer, Ronnie McIntosh and the
band Blue Ventures, and a Sea Scout himself, said “there is an escalation of
crime in the village, just as elsewhere in Trinidad and Tobago, and we were
blessed with a support structure in our youth, under mentors such as the late
Scout’s Master, Trevor Levine.” Godfrey John elaborated, “We would like to
show that there are positive role models in the community.”
With the assistance of some of the wives, Sharon Alves and Dianne Reuben,
along with Lima Ramjohn, whose parents Manny and Irma Ramjohn have been
the life’s blood of the Scouts during most of their living years; Lima continues
the family tradition after their death. Through fund raisers and other resources,
the Sea Scouts intend to avail themselves to their community as a go to for fi-
nancial assistance and mentorship, among other social and wellbeing needs.
“WE COME TO YOUY-
STOP PRESS
Gonsalves wins third term
407-350-4888
The ruling United Labor Party (ULP) of Supporters of the ULP took to the streets
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves in in celebration after the preliminary results
St. Vincent and the Grenadines won an showed that the party had won eight of
historic third consecutive term in office at the 15 seats contested in the general elec-
general elections held on December 13, tion. The NDP, which had three seats in
fighting off a strong challenge from the the last parliament increased that number
New Democratic Labor Party (NDP) to seven, preliminary results showed.
which won seven (7) of the 15 seats in
Parliament.
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 4

5. Florida’s Caribbean Sun 5

6. Florida’s Caribbean Sun 6

7. Barbados is hemisphere’s second
least corrupt country
Barbados has topped the list in Latin America and the
Caribbean as the country perceived to be the least cor-
rupt in the region.
I
ts enviable ranking is contained in Chile is 3rd.
2010 Corruption Perception report
Globally, the Transparency Internation-
by the international watchdog
al Corruption Perception Index puts
Transparency International (TI).
Barbados at a very high 17th where it is
Not only does TI place Barbados at the tied with Japan.
top of the Latin Amercan and Caribbe-
By comparison Britain is at number 20
an region, the Caribbean nation is se-
and the United States 22.
cond only to Canada in the entire
Americas. Three countries are tied for first place
as being perceived to be the least cor-
The United States is in 4th place while
rupt in the world - Denmark, New Zea-
land and Singapore.
The only other Caricom state making
the top 50 is Dominica at 44 - and the
other Caribbean territory in that bracket
is Puerto Rico, ranked at 33.
Other Caribbean country rankings on
the global corruption perception index
are Cuba at 69, Trinidad and Tobago -
73, Jamaica comes in at 86, the Domin-
ican Republic 101, Guyana 116 and
Venezuela 164.
At the bottom of the list globally, plac-
ing at 178 and perceived to be the
world's most corrupt country, is Soma-
lia.
The Management & Staff of
Caribbean Sun wish all of our
Advertisers and Readers
Happy Holidays
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 7

8. Florida’s Caribbean Sun 8

9. Florida’s Caribbean Sun 9

10. Barbadians in Orlando Indian Ambassador visits Orlando
celebrate Independence hails contribution of West Indian culture
B
arbadians in Central Florida cele- dent of the association, Dr. Dale Husbands By Laverne McGee
brated their country’s 44th Inde- said that through solid stewardship the
M
pendence anniversary by paying people of Barbados “have not really felt eera Shankar, Indian Ambas- room despite telling them she was the
tribute to the life and work of their late the pain of a global recession. sador to the United States has Indian Ambassador. A female security
prime minister, David Thompson, who acknowledged the contribu- officer patted her down. A Transporta-
He said that in the New Year the associa-
died a few weeks prior to the celebrations. tions West Indians of Indian descent are tion Security Administration spokesman
tion will partner with other Barbadian as-
making to the modernization of Indian said diplomats are not exempt from the
The Coalition for the Barbados Associa- sociations in Florida in fundraising efforts
culture. searches and that Shankar was screened
tion of Central Florida held its annual In- to help charities back home. “My hope is
in accordance with TSA’s security poli-
dependence Gala on November 20th at the for all the Florida organizations to come Ambassador Shankar told Caribbean
cies and procedures.
Rosen Hotel. Guest of honor at the event together to host a single fund raising event Sun’s Managing Editor Laverne McGee
was Barbados Minister of International which would allow us to make a signifi- that she and the rest of India are quite India’s external affairs Minister S.M.
Business and International Transport, cant contribution to Barbados.” aware of the modernization and cultural Krishna issued a statement from New
George Hutson. modifications West Indians have had on Delhi, India. He said” I am rather sur-
Three Barbadians resident in Central Flori-
Indian culture pointing prised by the way the Indian
In his address to the gathering Hutson da-Tyrell Pile, Vincent Sandiford and “India protests search Ambassador to the US has
to the fact that chut-
highlighted the visionary leadership of the Gladstone Clarke received the Outstanding
ney music specifically, of its Ambassador “ been treated. This has hap-
late prime minister and the achievements Citizen Award for their long and dedicated
has gained attention pened for the second time in
of the government. He assured that pro- service to the community.
outside of the Caribbean. three months. This is unacceptable to
gress and prosperity would continue de-
India and we are going to take it up with
spite the loss of David Thompson. Presi- Several Guyanese, Trinidadians and other
the government of the United States. I
Caribbean Americans were part of the
hope things can be resolved so that such
audience at a recent lecture delivered by
unpleasant incidents do not occur again.”
the ambassador at the University of Cen-
tral Florida.
While her visit to Central Florida was
most welcoming the same could not be
said for her trip to back to the Washing-
ton, DC metropolitan area. On December
4, Shankar was departing Jackson Evers
Airport in Mississippi when she was sub-
jected to a search by agents of the Trans-
portation Security Agency (TSA) alt-
hough she had correct paperwork and
documents proving she is a diplomat.
Meera Shankar, Indian Ambassador to
Those who witnessed the ambassador’s the US (left) with Laverne McGee
screening said officers told her that she
was singled out because of the way she
was dressed. Shankar was wearing a sari.
First she was pulled from the security
line. Then she was taken to a waiting
6100 Old Winter Garden Rd., Orlando, Florida 352-874-3554
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our customers.
We are always grateful for your continued support.
OUR CHRISTMAS SPECIALS INCLUDE:
Aniseed Bread, Special Pepperpot Bread, Black Cakes, Fruit Cakes,
Party-size Pastries and much more…
Also serving you at:
CLERMONT/MINNEOLA BRANCH:
Sarah’s West Indian Store, 204 West Washington St. 352-243-3465
OCALA BRANCH:
Jerry’s West Indian Store, 9536 S.E. Maricamp Rd. 352-680-1608
MAIN BRANCH, TORONTO CANADA
2691 Markham Rd. #11, Scarborough 416-298-6611
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 10

11. Curacao to offer flights to space
C
uracao hopes to offer commercial Hato International Airport. The price tag
flights to space by January 1, 2014,for such space experiences is still steep,
the country’s new prime minister, some 95.000 dollars per person for a 45
Gerrit Schotte announced recently while minute trip, but the predictions are that
addressing the 34th annual Miami Confer- by 2020 some 20.000 people will be mak-
ence on the Caribbean Basin. ing a trip to space on a commercial basis,
as space tourists. Now some of you might
The projected price for a 45 minute trip to
be thinking right now, yeah right, space
space from Curacao is $95, 000. The prime
travel …. but in this new era we live in, I
minister announced his country’s space
see projects like this as a unique but also
project as among the bold new initiatives
realistic opportunity to present Curaçao to
his administration plans to stimulate the
the world. And also as a unique opportuni-
economy and generate jobs.
ty to create new jobs, and introduce new
“We keep adding new initiatives, some high-tech opportunities to our island,” the
more bold than others. One of those is the prime minister said.
proposed Curaçao Space Port, where by
Government and private sector, he added,
January first of 2014, we hope to see com-
have been actively involved in this project
mercial space flights take off from our
from the onset.
Reggae Superstar Buju Banton to perform
live in concert January 16 in Miami
M
IAMI - Sunday, Janu- day there is no
ary 16th 2011 Martin other reason to
Luther King Weekend, miss this once in
mark your calendars for the most a life time un-
highly anticipated show that will expected con-
lock down any other show for the cert, which will
entire year, Buju Banton Live on not happen any-
Stage for one night and one night where else in
only. the USA. So
There is no other way to start 2011, come out and
but to start it with one of the lead- witness history
ing Grammy Nominated Reggae as Buju hits the
Artist, Buju. Just when they stage on Ameri-
thought Mr. Gargamel would stop can Soil, which
to dwell on the negativity, Buju most people
rises and comes fourth with say, may be his
friends for Before the Dawn Con- very last show.
cert. With no school or work the next
DECEMBER >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
VID’S 5th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY ISLAND BEAT ANNIVERSARY & HATTERS
MELA ROOM PARTY
9677 S. Orange Blossom Trail TEMA FOUNDATION HALL
Orlando, FL 1044 Plaza Drive
Saturday, December 18, 2010 Kissimmee, FL
Doors open @ 9.30 pm Saturday, December 25, 2010
Tickets: $10.00 Time: 10 pm-2 am
Contact: 407-654-9096/407-291-2047 Tickets: $10.00 advance /$15.00 at door
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Food and Drinks Available
ISLAND SATURDAYS >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
2ND ANNUAL MASQUERADERS EDITION THE ORLANDO CARIBBEAN ASSOCIATION
STONEFACE BIRTHDAY BASH NEW YEAR’S EVE SOCIAL
CLUB LIMELITE “THE VENUE”
345 N. Orange Ave TIMEHRI BANQUET HALL
Orlando, FL 7371 West Colonial Drive
Saturday, December 18, 2010 Orlando, FL
Ladies free till 11.30 pm (Highland Lake Mall)
Men $10 Before 12.00 am Friday, December 31, 2010
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Time: 8 pm - ?
AN EVENING OF INSPIRING DEVOTIONALS ALL INCLUSIVE: Drinks, Dinner & Breakfast
SARYAM Contribution: $40.00 per person
OLYMPIA HIGH SCHOOL Contact: Phillip @ 321-231-5998/Ricky
4301 S. Apopka Vineland Road @407-448-8688/Bunny @917-886-6940
Orlando, FL >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Sunday, December 19, 2010 2011
Doors open @ 4 pm, Program begins @ 4.30 GACACF ANNUAL REPUBLIC BALL
pm “THE BALLROOM” AT CHURCH STREET
Tickets: $15.00, Children under 5 yrs free Saturday February 19, 2011
Contact: 407-451-2617/352-8705300 7:00PM—2:00AM
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Tickets $ 60.00
CHRISTMAS EVE DANCE Contact : Vanessa 407-325-5466
“THE VENUE” >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
TIMEHRI BANQUET HALL GRENADA INDEPENDENCE GALA
7371 West Colonial Drive THE HOLIDAY INN, HOTEL & SUITES
Orlando, FL 5905 Kirkman Road
(Highland Lake Mall)
Friday, December 24, 2010
Orlando, FL
Saturday, March 19, 2011
KISSIMMEE # 407-201-3066
Time: 8 pm -? Time: 7 pm-1 am
Donation: $5.00 Tickets: $55.00 in advance only
Contact: Lake @352-267-1232/Errol @407- Contact: Val @321-303-9345/Rita @407-299 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
864-9981 -8316
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 11

12. Caribbean Horoscopes
December 2010
Aries (21 March - 19 April) Your career will start to show vibrancy and
progress. You will be filled with energy and drive, which will bring you career
opportunities, too, so this is truly a critical time for you to leap ahead. It's the
right time to gain a promotion or to start interviewing for a new position of
responsibility and power. Your chart shows a step up, not a lateral move to
the same old thing you did before, so don't settle for anything less, dear Ar-
ies!
Taurus (20 April - 20th May) You like to know precisely how your in-
vestments are doing and exactly where your money is going when you spend
it. As the month starts out, you seem to be doing a lot of end-of-year tax plan-
ning and evaluation. Excellent. This is the time to do that. Something that
occurs December 23 may make you aware that you need to expect the unex-
pected when it comes to money. You tend to be superb at money manage-
ment.
Gemini (21 May -21 June) When two people come to the table in busi-
ness or in love, both bring something that is highly attractive to the other
side. You both need one another, but on the other hand, you both also have
certain needs. Finding the right balance will be your aim this month.
Cancer (22 June - 22 August) In case you expected a quiet, sleepy little
month for December, think again. Your schedule is likely to change dramati-
cally as you get closer to month's end. You'd be wise to get as much work and
as many holiday preparations done early, so when priorities shift later, you
won't feel anxious about running out of time.
Leo (23 August - 22 August ) If you are single and hoping to find love,
plan to be out of the house in the days after December 5. That might be nice -
a chance meeting that you simply don't expect. You need to try your luck
now. Holiday parties will be in full swing, and you will get more than your
usual share of invitations.
Virgo (23 August - 22 September) This may be one of those months
where everything seems a little off kilter. It's a perfect time to do research
and meditate about your New Year ahead, but do not etch anything in stone
quite yet. The world will be in flux, and you will have to go with the flow. Any
deal you negotiate now will need to be renegotiated later, so hold back. Eve-
ryone will be in the same position, so you won't be alone.
Libra (23 September - 22 October) Too much is going on in your life
these days, and you are alternating between jittery highs and depressing
lows. Your plate is piled high, and although you feel that finding accord and
cooperation from higher ups and others should be easy, in December you will
find almost nothing is easy. Don't buck this trend - relax and refuse to be
ruffled.
Scorpio (23 October - 21 November ) Money will be a big focus this
month, and you will need to do the best you can until your prospects perk up
in January. Very soon the spending will drop and you will feel more in control
of your finances. You are more motivated to find additional money, if only by
necessity.
Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) December is an important
month on so many levels, not only because it's birthday time. This is a superb
opportunity to start a new chapter in your life. You will be brave and deter-
mined, ready to do whatever it takes to be successful. Anything you do will
have special gravitas, and you can begin to build a firm foundation.
Capricorn (22 December - 16 January) This is a month perfect for
fixing things in your life that are not working. This is an unlikely time to find a
peaceful period to decide what you'd like to change, what to leave, and what
to bring in the New Year, but it is the perfect time to do so. During most of
this month, you will be in an enormously reflective mood.
Aquarius (20 January - 18 February) Aquarius is considered a social,
gregarious sign that is said to be eager to meet new people and expand their
ever-widening circle of friends. This month you will joyfully live up to your
reputation. You can be sure that the two weeks that follow that date will be
highly social and lots of fun. Your actions could bring stability and long-range
benefits.
Pisces (19 February - 20 March) This month has exciting balance be-
tween your public life and private life. It won't be without drama.. It's a com-
plex month, so let's start at the top and see how the universe created the plot
for December. The month starts out poised for honors, awards, achievement,
and fame.
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 12

13. Recipes! Recipes! Recipes! Recipes!
ROYAL ICING 300°F for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
Ingredients 6. Sprinkle additional rum over cake immedi-
1 lb raisins 2 egg whites
1 lb icing sugar (confectioner's, 4 cups) ately after it is baked. Repeat a few times. Al-
1/2 lb currant low cake to remain in pan for 2 to 3 days.
1 lemon, juice of
1/4 lb prune 7. FOR THE MARZIPAN: Beat egg whites to
a stiff froth, stir in ground almonds, sugar and
1 cup rum Directions: almond essence to make a paste.
1 1/2 lbs brown sugar, packed (3 1/4 cups) Prep Time: 20 mins
8. Remove cake from pan, place on a cake
Total Time: 2 1/2 hrs
1/2 lb butter plate. Cover top of cake with almond paste.
1. FOR THE CAKE: Wash and dry fruit.
Roll rest of paste thinly to cover sides. Allow to
6 eggs, beaten Grind fruit and soak with 3/4 cup of rum. Store,
dry 1 day before icing.
1/2 lb flour (2 cups) covered, in glass jar to steep for 2 weeks or
9. FOR THE ROYAL ICING: Beat egg
longer. So you don’t have time.. try stewing it
1/2 teaspoon baking powder whites to a froth, add sugar, a little at a time,
works as well.
1 teaspoon mixed spice (nutmeg, cinnamon, beating well after each addition. Add lemon
2. TO MAKE CARAMEL, heat 1 lb. of sugar
juice and sugar and continue to beat until mix-
cloves, allspice) in a heavy bottomed frying pan until melted;
ture forms peaks.
1/4 lb mixed peel simmer until dark brown. Let cool.
10. Dip a spatula in hot water and smoother the
3. Cream butter and 1/2 lb (250 g) sugar well,
1/4 lb chopped nuts (optional) icing over the almond paste. A second layer
add beaten eggs a little at a time; add soaked
may be applied when the first is thoroughly
ICING FOR BLACK CAKE fruits and rum, stirring well, and enough cara-
dried.
MARZIPAN mel to make it as dark as desired.
Decorate as desired.
2 egg whites 4. Add sifted flour with baking powder and
1/2 lb ground almonds (2 cups) mixed spice. Fold in peel and chopped nuts.
1/2 lb icing sugar (confectioner's, 2 cups) 5. Pour mixture into baking pan, greased and
1/2 teaspoon almond essence (extract) lined with waxed paper. Bake in a slow oven at
629 Delhi Street, Orlando
(3 blocks East of Pine Hills Rd. off of W. Colonial Dr.)
“Buffet Style Lunch”
A First in Caribbean Dining
Orlando’s Tastiest Caribbean Food:-
Buss Up Shot, curry Chicken, Goat, Beef,
Veggies, Rice & Peas and Much More
All You Could Eat
$7.99
Mon-Fri: 11am – 3 pm
Tel:- 407-293-ROTI (7684)
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 13

14. Sports roundup
New York Chargers win US Open Cricket
T he New York Chargers be-
came the 2010 US Open
Cricket Champions when
they convincingly defeated the Pa-
during the three days of intense
competition.
The Finals of the US Open com-
menced almost immediately after
handle the Chargers’ five- prong
spin attack. With the fall of
Haider at 35, and Singh at 48, the
Magic were unable to do any signif-
Wright immediately set upon the hapless
Magic bowling while Hall played a more
supporting role, rotating the strike. By the
end of the 15th over Chargers had acquired
kistan Magic in the finals of the icant recovery. They were all out the runs need for victory and the champion-
the conclusion of the semi-finals.
Cricket Council USA sponsored for 113 runs. ship. Wright hit the winning shot- a four
The Magic batted first. Openers
tournament, on Sunday, December
Ken Singh (29) and Hussain Haider The Chargers’ regular opening pair muscled over the extra cover fieldsman. He
5th, 2010 at the Lauderhill Cricket
(33) were the only two Magic bats- of Carl Wright and Glenn Hall con- was 47 not out and Steve Massiah 23 not
Stadium, in Fort Lauderdale, Flori- out.
men who seemed to know how to fidently strode to the wicket.
da. The Chargers played undefeated
Following the game the presentation cere-
mony was held with various awards , for
the tournament, given:
Most Promising Player – Steven Tay-
lor ( Miami Thunder)
WI cuts tour of Sri Lanka Most Catches – Rashad Marshall (United
Chargers)
Most Wickets – Masood Moham-
T
med ( Magic)
he West Indies has cut Sri Lanka Cricket took the decision Most Runs – Steven Taylor (Miami Thun-
short its current tour of Sri to cancel the Limited Overs Series der)
Lanka due to bad weather. when it was clear that the persistent MVP of Finals – Carl Wright (United
The visitors should have rain is unlikely to abate and allow Chargers)
played five One Day Internationals for completed matches. The drawn Tournament MVP – Steven Taylor (Miami
and one T-20, but bad weather, three match Test Series was also Thunder)
which also ruined the three test se- heavily affected by rain.
ries, forced a cancellation of the re-
The WICB was consulted and sup-
mainder of the tour.
ported the decision taken by SLC.
West Indies Cricket Board CEO
“It made little sense to have the
Dr. Ernest Hilaire said that a
teams turn up for matches which
practical decision had to be taken
they knew were not going to take
in the interest of cricket with re-
place and this would have caused
gard to the cancellation of the
frustrations to fans and officials as
Limited Overs portion of the West
well,” Dr Hilaire observed.
Indies Team tour of Sri Lanka.
“The weather is beyond any of our
“The weather in Sri Lanka has been
control and the WICB will now
most disappointing throughout the
work with Sri Lanka Cricket to en-
tour and a practical decision had to
sure that the matches are resched-
be taken in the best interest of crick-
uled to a time when the weather is
et, the fans and the players,” Dr
more favorable for cricket,” he said.
Hilaire commented.
Turn in your old
Singh’s Jewelry unwanted Gold or
Jewelry and make
ca$h
Broken , tangled
One Free Jewelry Cleaning chains missing
stones mix/match
& Inspection
earrings 10K 14K
Derrick Singh or Ronald Singh 18K 22K 24K
White gold, Tricol-
407-849-0002 ored Gold class
2155 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32804 rings, dental gold,
Platinum , Gold
(Magic Mall Booth Z 4-5 Last Entrance) coins, silver and
WE PAY CASH ON THE SPOT more
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 14

15. More than 7,000 secret cables on the Caribbean
-Continued from page 1-
There are more than 1,000 secret docu- Many of the secret cables, according to press, we can speak to the diplomatic ing what it called the largest set of confi-
ments each on Jamaica, Dominican Re- the sources, go back to events such as the community's practice of cable writing. dential documents into the public do-
public, Haiti and Guyana in addition to Cubana Disaster off Barbados, the Grena- Cables reflect the internal day-to-day main. Assange has since been arrested in
hundreds each on Grenada, Trinidad and da invasion, the Jonestown Massacre and analysis and candid assessments that London on unrelated allegations of rape.
Tobago, Dominica, St. Lucia, Barbados the Iran-Contra investigations. Caribbean inform the governments' foreign relations
The website has thus far released some
and the Bahamas, Caribbean Sun has Sun sought to confirm these reports with deliberations.”
450 documents with a total of a quarter
learnt. One of the cables on Grenada may the US State Department but a spokes-
Meanwhile, Wikileaks said the embassy million slated to be released.
have to do with the use of the interna- person there said the Department “is
cables will be released in stages over the
tional airport there as a base for US fight- unable to confirm any of this infor- The cables date from 1966 up until the
next few months. "The subject matter of
er jets which accompanied President mation” end of February 2010 and contain confi-
these cables is of such importance, and
Barack Obama to Trinidad for last year’s dential communications between 274
While acknowledging that the leaks “are the geographical spread so broad, that to
Summit of the Americas. Recent cables, embassies in countries throughout the
an embarrassment to the United States” do otherwise would not do this material
the sources say, also deal with the rela- world and the State Department in Wash-
the State Department spokesperson add- justice," the web site added. The Wik-
tions between Caribbean countries and ington, DC.
ed “while we cannot speak to the authen- ileaks website, founded by former hacker
Venezuela and President Hugo Chavez.
ticity of any documents provided to the Julian Assange, last month started releas-
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 15

16. HISTORIC DOCUMENT FSCA 10TH ANNUAL
PRESENTATION DANCE
Guyana’s Prime Minister Sam Hinds examines what is be-
lieved to be among the few original documents of the pro-
ceedings and maps both for British Guiana and Venezue-
la leading up to the Arbitral Award of 1899 at the Cheloni- Members of the Dream Team, recipients of the Triple Crown this
an Research Institute in Oviedo, Florida in the company of, year being congratulated by the Association’s President Hakim
the Institute's director Dr. Peter Pritchard, a student intern Bacchus at the Annual Award Ceremony/Dance held at the Mela
at the Institute and former diplomat Wesley Kirton. Room
CARIBBEAN CHAMBER HOLIDAY PARTY
From left are: Hector Perez, vice president of community rela-
tions at the Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and
Kash Ramnarain ( 2nd from right ) with Management Staff of the Maraya Res- Accounting (ALPFA); Chamber president Carol Singh; business
taurant at the Chamber’s Holiday Party From left to right Edwin Ayache, Ade- consultant Wilfred Thomas; Roberto Acevedo, senior adminis-
le Saxe, Peter Saxe, Violette Haddad, Kash Ramnarain and George Knouri trative assistant at the Orange County Appraiser’s Office and
Ron Roach of Darden Restaurants.
The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida (CACCF) held its Holiday Party and Dinner recently at the Maraya Res-
taurant on Crystal Clear Lane in Orlando. Scores of Chamber members and friends attended the event.
Duck Curry Duck
(Left) 1st Prize Winner
Indra Persaud re-
ceives trophy from
Philip Scantlebury
(Right) This group
took time out to relax
during the event
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 16