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NEWS YOU CAN USE! Vol. 7 No. 1 • July 2010

US and Caribbean Region

To Strengthen Cooperation
To Fight Crime, Improve
Health Care, Promote Trade
T he United States and the countries
of the Caribbean (CARICOM) have
pledged to strengthen their cooperation in
a range of areas including illicit trafficking,
crime reduction, improved health services
and the promotion of human rights.
These were among the decisions taken
when US Secretary of State Hillary
Clinton met last month with Caribbean
Community (CARICOM) leaders and
officials in Barbados. The two sides also
pledged to work together to increase trade,
mitigate the impact of climate change
and facilitate the reconstruction efforts in
Haiti following last January’s devastating
earthquake.
Barbados deputy prime minister Freundel Stuart and US Secretary of State Hillary “We, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs
Clinton share a light moment on her arrival in Barbados last month for a meeting with
and Heads of Delegation of  Antigua
CARICOM heads-of-government. Some fashion writers criticized Mrs. Clinton's choice
of a bright orange pants suit for her trip to the Caribbean. – Continued on page 2 –
and Barbuda,  The Bahamas, Barbados,
Belize, the Commonwealth of Dominica,
the Dominican Republic, Grenada, the
Republic of Guyana, the Republic of Haiti,
Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St.
Vincent and the Grenadines, the Republic
of Suriname, the Republic of Trinidad
and Tobago, and the Secretary of State of
the United States of America, meeting in
Bridgetown, Barbados, on June 10, 2010,
pledge to strengthen our cooperation in
responding to the challenges we commonly
face, in a spirit of partnership and mutual
respect.
“To meet the common challenges of the
21st Century, we declare our intention to
act in concert to improve the social and
economic well-being of our peoples, to
ensure the safety of all our citizens,

“Dudus” Pleads Not Guilty In US Court

Christopher “Dudus” Coke has pleaded not guilty in a
US Court to charges of drugs and weapon trafficking.
The once powerful Jamaican gang leader was extradited
to the US recently immediately after a court hearing at
which he expressed regret for the fighting that claimed
scores of lives in Jamaica as he evaded capture.
Coke was flown to the US to face trial for alleged drug
and weapons trafficking. He faces a life sentence if
convicted.
The leader of the Shower Posse gang, whom US officials
allege is the head of a crime network that extends from
Jamaica to Europe and North America, said he was
saddened by the more than 75 lives lost in the fighting,
mostly in his Kingston stronghold of Tivoli Gardens,
sparked by the attempt to arrest and extradite him.
"I take this decision for I believe it to be in the best
interest of my family, the community of western
Christopher “Dudus” Coke being escorted by DEA
agents after arriving at airport in New York.
Kingston and, in particular the people of Tivoli Gardens
and above all Jamaica," he said. He said he expected to
be acquitted in the US and to return to Jamaica.
Hours before his extradition, the Jamaican authorities
seized Coke's identifiable assets and froze his bank
accounts.
Police arrested Coke as he was on his way to the US
embassy in Kingston. He had apparently planned to
hand himself over to the Americans out of concern for
his safety. His father died in mysterious circumstances
in prison in 1992, in what many Jamaicans believe was
a murder to stop him talking about ties between criminal
gangs and politicians.
The authorities continue to be concerned about a violent
backlash. The extradition hearing was held at a military
outpost and a state of emergency and curfew is still in
place in the capital.

Some States Enacting Harsh Obama Praises Caribbean

Immigration Laws, Immigrants’ Efforts To Ensure
Florida May Consider “Their Children Can Achieve
Arizona-type Law Something Greater”
News Analysis By Gail Seeram

S ince the federal government has not proposed comprehensive immigration reform,
some state governments have decided to deal with the issue of illegal immigrants
P resident Barack Obama has said that
the celebration of Caribbean American
Heritage Month represents the triumphs of
on their own, enacting laws which would require, among other things, that immigrants Caribbean Americans who have become
provide proof of legal residence when renting an apartment. leaders in every sector of American life.
Arizona and Nebraska have enacted harsh immigration laws that are being challenged in In a proclamation issued to mark the
the Courts on grounds that these laws violate the U.S. Constitution. This notwithstanding, observance last month of National
Florida may consider enacting similar laws. Caribbean American Heritage Month,
President Obama noted the efforts of
Arizona’s harsh immigration law, “Support Our Law Enforcement and Safe Neighborhoods Caribbean immigrants to ensure that
Act” (SB 1070), requires state and local law enforcement agencies to check the their children “could achieve something
immigration status of individuals it encounters and makes it a state crime to be without greater.”
proper immigration documentation. There are six pending lawsuits challenging

– Continued on page 9 – – Continued on page 11 –

 SBA Partners With
Caribbean American Chamber
To Support Small Businesses IMMIGRATION
LAWYER
! U.S. Citizenship
! Green Cards
! Work/Investor Visas
! Business Visas
! Student Visas
! Appeals & Asylum
! Removal/Deportation
Gail S. Seeram ! Criminal Waivers
Attorney at Law ! TPS & Fiancé Visas
Free Initial Consultation – Call Now!
1-877-GAIL-LAW (1-877-424-5529)
Chamber and SBA officials sign the MOU Orlando: 407-292-7730
The U.S. Small Business Administration North and South Florida District Offices have www.Go2Lawyer.com
**Over 10yrs of Legal Experience**
signed a Strategic Alliance Memorandum with the Caribbean Chamber of Commerce of
Florida, Inc. to provide training and outreach activities for Caribbean American owned
small businesses in Florida.
Phone/Web Consultation Worldwide
The signing took place June 22nd at the Disney Entrepreneur Center at 315 East Robinson LL.M. Taxation, New York University School of Law, 2003
St., downtown Orlando. Juris Doctorate, Hofstra University School of Law, 1998
The Strategic Alliance Memorandum (SAM) stresses the importance of the U.S. Small BBA in Accounting, Hofstra University, 1996
Business Administration (SBA) and Caribbean Chamber uniting to help start, maintain Admitted to the NY & CT Bars – Offices: Florida & New York
and expand small businesses across the State of Florida. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Before you decide,
ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.
Under the formal partnership agreement, the Caribbean Chamber and SBA will agree
to hold joint training and outreach activities for small business owners as well as work

More Than 20 Storms,

closely with one another’s resource partners to assure Florida small businesses receive the
maximum benefit from both organizations.

10 Hurricanes Predicted
“We are very excited to enter this partnership with the Caribbean American Chamber of
Florida,” said Wilfredo J. Gonzalez, SBA North Florida District Director. “A partnership
such as this allows two strong entities to join forces in order to better assist the small
business community of Florida. We look forward to the ongoing relationship with the
Caribbean American Chamber and look forward to building a strong small business
foundation together.”

Francisco “Pancho” A. Marrero, SBA South Florida District Director said “This
new partnership will introduce the SBA and its services to an important audience of
entrepreneurs. The economic contribution of Caribbean American business is significant
in the State of Florida and we are very excited about the possibilities this partnership
holds.”

The Strategic Alliance Memorandum was signed by Wilfredo J. Gonzalez, SBA North
Florida District Director, Francisco A. Marrero, SBA South Florida District Director,
and Carol A. Singh, President and Sandra Fatmi, Treasurer of the Caribbean American
Chamber of Commerce, Inc

US and Caribbean Region

To Strengthen Cooperation
To Fight Crime, Improve
Health Care, Promote Trade
ART Executive Director. Dr. Teo Babun, (L) and Laparkan’s CEO, Mr. Glen Khan
sign the Memorandum of Understanding.

– Continued from page 1 –
to advance towards a secure and clean energy future, and to defend and strengthen our
democratic institutions,” said the end of meeting communiqué.
Crime and the traffic in illicit drugs and human beings were top priorities as both sides
acknowledged “our common concern over the growing strength and capabilities of
transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels, their attempts to distort and weaken
our economies and democratic systems, and the effects which their activities and presence
have on the safety of our citizens and the levels of violence in our societies. We also
pledge to work together through CBSI to address the social and economic factors that
contribute to crime in our societies.”
In the area of health, the countries expressed their commitment “to work together to
promote the health and development of our people.  We note the continuing HIV/AIDS
emergency in the region, and reaffirm our commitment to implementing the United
States-Caribbean Regional HIV and AIDS Partnership Framework. The Framework will
strengthen the efforts of governments, regional organizations, and national health systems
in reducing the incidence of HIV and AIDS among populations most at risk and provide
treatment to those affected by the disease.  The Framework will strengthen the efforts of
governments, regional organizations, and national health systems to reduce the incidence
of HIV and AIDS among populations most at risk and provide treatment to those affected
by the disease.”
The 2010 Atlantic hurricane season could be even more active than initially forecast, with
new estimates of more than 20 storms and 10 hurricanes including five at Category 3 level
or higher.
Both government and private forecasters in Florida and the Caribbean predict an intense
hurricane season that could wreak havoc in the islands of the Caribbean, Florida and the
Gulf Coast.
New forecasts issued late June add two storms and one
Hurricane to previous predictions released in May. Government and private disaster
preparedness and relief organizations are planning for the effects of an intensely active
season.
Teo Babun, executive director of the Miami-based Americas Relief Team (ART), a
grouping of private sector companies that work with governments and international
agencies on the logistics of disaster relief, told Caribbean Sun his organization is working
on a plan to pre-position disaster relief supplies in an effort to ensure responses are timely,
if the need arises.
Babun said ART earlier this year signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with
Laparkan Shipping for cooperation in disaster relief efforts and that Laparkan was making
available space in its new Miami warehouse for an emergency response center.

2 Florida’s Caribbean Sun

 Marriott International
Announces
First Hotel in Guyana
Georgetown Marriott Hotel to
open in 2013; Guyanese in Florida
welcome this development
Marriott International, Inc. has announced that it will open its first Marriott branded hotel
in Guyana in 2013 and Guyanese business and travel executives in Florida have welcomed
this development.
“ The160-room Georgetown Marriott Hotel is on track to receive LEED® (Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council
(USGBC) and is on track to be Marriott’s first LEED hotel in the Caribbean & Latin
America.  It will operate under a management agreement with Atlantic Hotel Inc (AHI). 
AHI is currently owned by the Government of Guyana (GoG) as part of a public-private
partnership between the Government of Guyana and private sector investors.
“We are thrilled to partner with AHI and the Government of Guyana to open our first
Marriott Hotel in the country, representing Marriott’s presence in another Capital city in

Caribbean Americans Urged

South America,” said Laurent de Kousemaeker, chief development officer for Marriott
International in the Caribbean & Latin America. “This will also be Marriott’s first LEED-
hotel in the region, and we are confident that it will play an instrumental role in the

To Support “Right Sizing”

continued economic and commercial development of Guyana.”
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Guyana, President Bharrat Jagdeo, said, “Guyana
looks forward to a first class branded quality hotel operated by Marriott International. 

Florida Classrooms
This public-private partnership project will transform the hospitality landscape and can be
expected to encourage more travel and tourism development for our nation. The project will
be more an integrated entertainment complex ideally located at the corner of the Atlantic
Ocean and Demerara River with a casino, night club, restaurant, and boardwalk.”
The hotel’s state-of-the-art architectural and interior design concept will be created by the Caribbean Americans in Florida are being encouraged to support an amendment which
firm of Urbahn Architects (New York).  would repeal the “hard and inflexible” class size limits which are due to be implemented
this fall. Amendment 8 is a plan to “right size” the number of students in classrooms in
Several Guyanese business and travel industry executives in Florida have welcomed
schools throughout Florida.
the investment in the country’s hotel sector pointing to the need for high-end hotel
accommodation and service.
A coalition of legislative, education and business leaders recently announced surprise
But some bloggers on news web sites have questioned whether the hotel can sustain unanimity among Florida’s major candidates for governor on the most important
occupancy levels to be a viable operation. education and budget issue facing Florida and its voters this year. In a rare reflection
of consensus, Florida’s leading candidates for governor are supporting Amendment 8,
the plan to “right size” Florida’s class size amendment. Florida Chief Financial Officer

‘Swipe Fee’ Legislation Will

Alex Sink, Democratic candidate for governor; Republican candidates Attorney General
Bill McCollum and businessman Rick Scott, and independent candidate Bud Chiles are

Help Small Business, Customers

endorsing the amendment to provide local districts additional flexibility to meet class size
caps.

Sen. Don Gaetz, of Niceville, who previously served as a school superintendent in Okaloosa
Recently, the U.S. Senate passed historic financial reform legislation, which included debit County said “school districts statewide are bracing for a wave of chaos and confusion that
and credit card swipe fee reform, a major win for small businesses and their customers.  the original class size amendment will bring this fall. This proposed amendment is about
Now, as the House and Senate come together to pass the final version of the bill, local providing local educators with increased flexibility to make staffing, operations and other
7-Eleven franchisees are calling on Representative Alan Grayson to ensure that the swipe decisions. It’s about keeping class sizes at a level where teachers can teach and children
fee reform amendment stays intact in the legislation.  can learn.”
This swipe fee reform will save small business owners and consumers millions of dollars.
7-Eleven store owners in Florida, some of whom are Caribbean American, are asking their Sen. Gaetz notes that Amendment 8 before voters this fall maintains Florida’s commitment
customers to contact their members of Congress to ensure that the swipe fee amendment to smaller class sizes. Instead of the hard, inflexible class size caps instituted by the 2002
stays in the legislation. amendment, the Constitutional amendment proposed by the Florida Legislature would
“Last summer, we collected 30,632 petition signatures from our customers in the North implement class size caps as a school average and provide flexibility for the schools to add
Orlando area asking Congress to take action on these unfair debit and credit card fees,” 3 seats in pre-K to 3rd grade classrooms and 5 seats in grades 4 through 12 if necessary to
said Roger Van Sluis, owner of a local 7-Eleven franchise.  “The Senate listened, and we meet unforeseen enrollment changes.
are grateful for their brave vote to help out small businesses like mine.  Now, we need
Representative Grayson to help us make sure the House finishes the job.” While the 2002 class size amendment only received the support of 52.4 percent of voters,
 ast month, a large bipartisan majority in the Senate voted 64-33 to add Sen. Richard
L the measure on the November ballot will require approval of 60 percent of voters to
Durbin’s (D-IL) swipe fee reform amendment to the financial reform package, directly become law. Under the 2002 Class Size Amendment, hard classroom caps of 18 students
benefiting American merchants and consumers.   Because similar reform language is for grades PreK-3; 22 students for grades 4-8; and 25 students for grades 9-12 are
not included in the House version of the bill, the conference committee must commit to scheduled to take effect at the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year.
keeping it in the final version of the bill as they work to reconcile the two versions during
the next month.   “Together with our customers, we’ve done our best to make our voices “This would require the construction of additional schools, even though Florida already
heard in Washington,” said Joe DePinto, President and CEO of 7-Eleven, Inc.  “We’re has 825,000 student stations sitting empty. Those stations are in every district and at every
very close to a victory that will help lower costs for me and other small business owners grade level. If left unreformed, the hard caps in Florida’s 2002 class size law would create
and allow us to offer discounts to our customers.  We just need the leaders in the House – expensive and chaotic logistical problems for school districts across the state,” officials
including Representative Grayson – to get us across the finish line by keeping the swipe say.
fee reform intact.”

Caribbean Sun Shines Again

 Area 7-Eleven stores are asking their friends and neighbors to contact Rep. Grayson and
tell him to finish the job by keeping Senator Durbin’s swipe fee amendment in the Wall
Street Reform bill. 
“Swipe fee reform is the one provision of the financial reform package that has direct A newspaper is integral to any society, especially immigrant communities in large cities
and tangible benefits to local small businesses and consumers,” said DePinto. “Our and states. For over six years Florida’s Caribbean Sun had been informing, educating and
customers are keeping an eye on what’s going on in Washington, and they’re counting on entertaining the Caribbean American community in Florida, particularly Central Florida
Representative Grayson to make sure that reform stays in the final bill.”  before its recession induced hiatus.
For years, the credit card companies have been profiting off the backs of merchants and
consumers by charging them excessive fees each time a credit or debit card is used.  As the In popular Caribbean parlance “you never miss the water till the well run dry” and indeed
credit card companies and banks collect $2,000 per minute in swipe fees, one consumer we did not recognize the value of our community newspaper until we did not have it. How,
will pay an average of $400 per year in hidden credit and debit card swipe fees.  These in recent months we longed to read what’s happening in our community, the latest on
fees have tripled in the past nine years, and cost American consumers and merchants $48 immigration issues and to be kept abreast about sports and politics? We really missed the
billion in 2008.  Sun...we missed the news we need to use and that is why we, members of the community,
worked to have the Sun shine again.
The bipartisan swipe fee amendment passed by the Senate would ensure that the fees
that small business and other entities are charged for accepting debit cards are reasonable
and proportional to the costs incurred by banks and credit card companies.  This vital Caribbean Sun is our newspaper.....the Caribbean American community’s voice in Florida
reform will limit payment card networks from imposing anti-competitive restrictions on and we need to make sure that we never let the Sun set again.....recession or no recession!
businesses that accept cards and will give merchants the freedom to give discounts to their We look forward to the advertising support of the business and civic community and to
customers for using less expensive forms of payment.   working with all of you out there in a mutually beneficial partnership.
 
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 3
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Law Offices of
Gail S. Seeram, P.C.
Florida Office:
1013 N. Pine Hills Rd.
Orlando, FL 32808
Tel. 407-292-7730
Fax. 407-292-7735
Email: Gail@Go2Lawyer.com
Web: www.Go2Lawyer.com
In US & Worldwide:
Tel. 1-877-GAIL-LAW
Fax. 1-877-416-2060
Conducting Phone/Web
Consultations Worldwide
• Gail S. Seeram is a member
of the New York and
Connecticut Bar.
• She received a LL.M. in
Taxation from New York
University School of Law, a
Juris Doctorate from Hofstra
University School of Law,
and a B.B.A. in Accounting
from Hofstra University.
• Add a highlight or your point of
interest here.
Newsfeed
Facebook.com/Go2Lawyer
The federal government
needs to act swiftly to
reassert its authority
over immigration law and
policy in light of Arizona
and Nebraska's effort to
legislate in the area of
immigration.
Nebraska passed
immigration law that
prohibit businesses and
landlords from hiring or
renting to illegal
immigrants. ACLU plans
to file suit as law violates
U.S. Constitution's
Supremacy clause and
the 14th Amendment.
Department of Justice
reported 8,287
immigration
prosecutions in March
2010, up 30% from
February and more than
any month since July
2009.
Hillary Clinton, US Sec of
State, says the White
House will sue Arizona
over the controversial
immigration law Arizona
enacted. YES!!
Arizona trying to deny US
citizenship to children
born in the US to illegal
immigrants.
4 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
Immigration Alert
COURT RULES CRIMINAL ATTORNEY MUST ADVISE OF DEPORTATION
On March 31, 2010, the U.S.
Supreme Court ruled in Padilla v.
Kentucky, 599 U.S. (2010), that in
light of the severity of deportation
and the reality that immigration
consequences of criminal
convictions are inextricably linked to
the criminal proceedings, the Sixth
Amendment requires defense
counsel to provide affirmative,
competent advice to a noncitizen
defendant regarding the immigration
consequences of a guilty plea, and,
absent such advice, a noncitizen
may raise a claim of ineffective
assistance of counsel.
In Padilla v. Kentucky, the petitioner
was a lawful permanent resident
immigrant who faced deportation
after pleading guilty in a Kentucky
court to the transportation of a large
amount of marijuana in his tractor-
trailer. In a post-conviction
proceeding, Mr. Padilla claimed that
his counsel not only failed to advise
him of this consequence prior to his
entering the plea, but also told him
that he “did not have to worry about
immigration status since he had
been in the country so long.” Mr.
Padilla stated that he relied on his
counsel’s erroneous advice when he
pleaded guilty to the drug charges
that made his deportation virtually
mandatory.
PROPOSED FEE INCREASE FOR IMMIGRATION APPLICATIONS/PETITIONS
On June 11, 2010, U.S. Citizenship
and Immigration Services (USCIS)
announced a proposal to increase
the filing fees for immigration
applications and petitions by a
weighted average of about 10
percent but would not increase the
fee for the naturalization application.
The last fee increase by USCIS was
in 2008.
USCIS is a fee-based organization
with about 90 percent of its budget
coming from fees paid by applicants
and petitioners to obtain immigration
benefits. USCIS’s fee revenue in
fiscal years 2008 and 2009 was
much lower than projected, and fee
revenue in fiscal year 2010 remains
low. According to USCIS, the fee
increase is necessary to ensure
USCIS recovers the costs of its
operations.
VISA BULLETIN FOR JULY 2010
Family-Sponsored Preference
Family All Chargeability CHINA-
Areas mainland
Except Those
Listed
born
1st 01APR05 01APR05
2A 01JUL08 01JUL08
2B 01MAY03 01MAY03
3rd 01SEP01 01SEP01
4th 01JAN01 01JAN01
1st: Unmarried Sons and Daughters (21 years of age or older) of U.S. Citizens
2A: Spouses and Unmarried Children (Under Age 21) of Lawful Permanent Resident
2B: Unmarried Sons and Daughters (Any Age) of Lawful Permanent Resident
3rd: Married Sons and Daughters (Any Age) of U.S. Citizens
4th : Brothers and Sisters of U.S. Citizens (21 years or age or older)
The Kentucky Supreme Court
denied Mr. Padilla post conviction
relief based on a holding that the
Sixth Amendment’s guarantee of
effective assistance of counsel does
not protect a criminal defendant from
erroneous advice about deportation
because it is merely a “collateral”
consequence of his conviction.
The U.S. Supreme Court disagreed
with the Kentucky Supreme Court
and agreed with Mr. Padilla that
“constitutionally competent counsel
would have advised him that his
conviction for drug distribution made
him subject to automatic
deportation.” The Court observed
that “[t]he landscape of federal
immigration law has changed
dramatically over the last 90 years.”
Based on these changes, the Court
concluded that “accurate legal
advice for noncitizens accused of
crimes has never been more
important” and that “deportation is
an integral part—indeed, sometimes
the most important part—of the
penalty that may be imposed on
noncitizen defendants who plead
guilty to specified crimes.”
The Court held that, for Sixth
Amendment purposes, defense
counsel must inform a noncitizen
USCIS encourages formal
comments on the proposed rule
through www.regulations.gov. The
comment period runs for 45 days,
beginning June 11, 2010 and
ending July 26, 2010. At a time
where the country is in a recession
and unemployment is quite high,
USCIS should not be considering
such a fee increase, but should
focus on reducing related costs and
expenses.
Applicant should keep in mind that
fee waivers requests will continue to
be considered by USCIS. USCIS
has the ability to waive fees on a
case-by-case basis for “inability to
pay.” In determining “inability to
pay,” USCIS officers consider all
factors, circumstances, and
evidence supplied by the applicant.
INDIA MEXICO PHILIP-
PINES
01APR05 01APR05 01NOV92
01JUN07 01JUL08 01JUN07
01MAY03 01MAY03 15JUN92
01SEP01 01SEP01 01MAR92
01JAN01 01JAN01 01MAR95
.:$8%6;<;%
client whether his or her plea carries
a risk of deportation. The Court
stated: “Our longstanding Sixth
Amendment precedents, the
seriousness of deportation as a
consequence of a criminal plea, and
the concomitant impact of
deportation on families living lawfully
in this country demand no less.”
This ruling by the Supreme Court is
monumental because it imposes a
duty on criminal defense attorneys to
understand their client’s immigration
status and to provide competent
advice to their clients regarding the
immigration consequences of a guilt
plea. Before this decision,
permanent residents (or green card
holders) were taking pleas in
criminal cases without any advice
from their criminal attorney as to
immigration or deportation
consequences of the guilty plea.
The Padilla case also opens a door
of opportunity for permanent
residents (or green card holders) to
challenge old criminal convictions
where they were not advised by their
criminal attorney of immigration
consequences.
If you would like to know how the
Padilla case applies to you, call Gail
Seeram at 407-292-7730.
Below are the current and proposed
fees for some commonly filed
applications:
Application to Replace Permanent
Resident Card – proposed fee
increase from $290 to $365
Application to Register Permanent
Residence or Adjust of Status –
proposed fee increase from $930 to
$985
Application for Status as a
Temporary Resident – proposed fee
increase from $710 to $1,130
Petition to Remove Condition on
Residence – proposed fee increase
from $465 to 505
Naturalization Certificate Application
– proposed fee increase from $460
to $600
USCIS Field Office
ORLANDO, FL
Processing Backlog
Form Processing Cases
Receipted on:
I-600 Feb. 14, 2010
I-600A Feb. 14, 2010
N-400 Dec. 1, 2009
N-600 Dec. 1, 2009
 Alumni at QC Brunch At QC Brunch

(L) Wilmott Chan, Andre Pestano, Tommy Smith, Donald Churaman, Dr.
Omawale, Maya Trotz, Chantal Boodhoo, Roger Zitman, Paul Daly, Dr.
Victor Boodhoo, Front Rene Sumner Maya Trortz receives a hug from Terry Viera

At At Guyana Family Fun Day

Guyana
Family
Fun Day

L-R) Pamela Carre, Yves Carre, Sheila, Theresa Martins

It was Vintage Sparrow … in Orlando

Prominent Guyanese Attorney Nigel Hughes (m) with his wife
Cathy Cholmondeley Hughes (L) and Brian Chin

By Melinda Gordon
A vintage Mighty Sparrow recently
performed to a capacity crowd at the new
Timehri Banquet Hall. By the end of his two-
set performance those attending the show-a
mixture of youth and seniors-had enjoyed a
night of calypso at its best.

The show, put on by Back To Back

Productions, afforded patrons an opportunity
to see and hear this aging yet superior talented
Caribbean legend “dish out” a variety of his
music including some love ballads.
Sparrow performs one of his classics. Appreciative audience at Sparrow show.
Sparrow, at age 75, continues to have a strong and melodious voice and he had the crowd on its feet from the time he hit the stage. Patrons danced and sang along as the ‘Birdie’ sang
from ‘Congo Man’ to some of his more contemporary hits.

In true Sparrow style, he had the audience “in stitches” from time to time with his very suggestive humor. He is too old now to gyrate as he used to but there were no shortcomings
in his vocal and comedic performance.

The audience had a good time and Timehri Banquet Hall provided the perfect setting for a fine evening of calypso at its best.
The Caribbean Sun newspaper interviewed Sparrow during his visit to Orlando. That interview will be published in our next edition.

GACACF 2010
Family Fun Day
The Guyanese American Cultural Association of Central
Florida (GACACF)  2010 Family Fun Day Fundraising
event held on Sunday May 30, 2010 at the Central
Florida Fairgrounds was a tremendous success with
more than 1000 turning out for the event.

Guyanese enjoyed free quality entertainment and

Dave Martins performs “Not a blade of grass”.
an opportunity to get together in a safe and friendly The kids take time out for games.
environment. The estimated attendance was between
1600 and 2000 people of all ethnicities and ages including
children. Attendees were treated to performances by
Creig Camacho’s two –man band, the new Guyanese
band RAAG, Leon Caldero, the legendary Dave Martins
and Tony Ricardo. There were also performances from
Hippie Chic Belly Dancers, the Buxton Heritage Group
and Back To Back Productions DJ.

The event’s main sponsors were Caribbean Supercenter

supermarket, Caribbean Airlines, The Law office
of Gail Seeram, Laparkan Shipping, Rosen Hotels,
Seafreight Agencies, Sunshine Beverage and Flavors,
The Highland Agency and Paul and Anita Singh.
A section of the large crowd at Family Day Old friends Tony Ricardo & Alan Khan reunite

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 5

6 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 7
 Kool & The Gang Plans Orlando Concert Belize Prime Minister
Evacuated from
Funds Raised Will Go To Support Haiti Miami Beach Hotel

©gtb

Belize Prime Minister Dean Barrow was

among over 1,000 people forced to evacuate
a Miami Beach hotel following a murder and
the presence of toxic fumes on the premises
Saturday night, June 26. Miami Beach Police
and Fire Rescue crews reported to the Miami
Beach Resort at 4833 Collins Ave. at around
10 p.m., Saturday. According to Miami Beach
Police, a shooting occurred on the 11th floor
of the hotel resulting in the death of a man.
Rumors spread fast that the prime minister,
on an official visit to the United States had
been shot while delivering a speech at the
hotel but this was soon dispelled when the US
Secret Service announced that Barrow had
been safely evacuated from the ballroom of
the hotel where he was reportedly wrapping
up a speech to some 300 attendees at a dinner.
“The Secret Service guys are excellent, super
professional, and I was in good hands,” Prime
Minister Barrow said later.
According to the Miami Herald newspaper,
Barrow was speaking about the possible
impact of tropical storm Alex which was
Kool (seated 3rd from right) and his family with some Caribbean American friends at Circa Restaurant forming in the Caribbean when a Secret
Service agent whispered in his ear, bringing
in Winter Park, FL. an end to the speech and the night’s activities
which should have included a concert.
Kool from the internationally famous group Kool & the Gang is planning a concert in Orlando that could see the group perform along However, Belizeans and other Caribbean
with the Commodores and KC & the Sunshine Band. Plans for the concert to raise funds for Haiti are in their preliminary stage but a Americans attending the event developed
tentative November date has been set for the event. their own impromptu party on the sidewalks
  and in nearby parking lots until they were
“We have discussions going on right now,” said Kool about the proposed concert. Kool and his family joined with some of their cleared to re-enter the hotel.
Caribbean American friends recently for an evening at Circa, in Winter Park.  
Prime Minister Barrow continued his official
visit and law enforcement officials say the
murder and presence of toxic fumes at the

July 2010 Horoscopes

resort were in no way related to the prime
minister’s visit.

Aries (21 March - 19 April)The summer heat could go straight to your head in July. Your stars and you have the power to set pulses racing. No one will be able to resist your confidence. This is an
could see you clashing with your nearest and dearest. A better way to channel this energy is important month in an important year for you. This only happens once every twelve years it’s time for
into love making in the middle of the month By the end of July your energy levels will settle to a more you to make the most of each opportunity that comes your way. Expect to be seeing more of the world
constant and manageable pace, perfect for getting on top of any practical issues. and letting the world see more of you.


Taurus (20 April - 20th May)You start off this month focused and wanting to be taken seriously.
This is a good time to deal any officials like bank managers and your boss. Things are definitely
looking up as someone lights up your life and there are fireworks in the middle of the month and things
get hot and heavy right through until the end of the month when you start behaving in a way that surprises
you and everyone else.
Gemini (21 May -21 June) Gemini this month you have to watch every penny and it’s a real
pain as you see your friends out having a good time and you feel as though you are missing out.
Don’t fret you will be off on a bigger and better holiday later and will be glad you saved your dough. In
the meantime your love life will reach boiling point by the middle of the month. Use all the information
you know to make things better.
Cancer (22 June - 22 July) You’re full of life this month, but what exactly are you achieving
from all this activity? You will not be getting any payback . This can be frustrating but a bright
idea at the end of the month will help you find a solution to this. You’re likely to feel all hot and bothered
this July, but try not to let the sun go your head. Just remember that keeping cool means keeping calm.
The best advice for you is avoid mid day burn out and instead make the most of warm balmy nights
which is much more your style. Evenings are your time so get plenty of rest in order to make the most
of those midnight fiestas.
Leo (23 July - 22 August) July sees you at your most charming. Smooth talk comes easily and
you’re quite happy to use it on anybody you take a shine to. You adore attention and there’s no
shortage this month, but you’re generous with praise too and people will love to bask in the warm glow
you’re giving off. It’ll leave you walking on cloud nine and everyone is going to know about it! You’re in
for some summer sizzle this July with an equally hot partner and there could be a connection with foreign
places too. Perhaps a holiday romance or a romantic interlude with someone from abroad is on the cards.
Either way you’re in for a good time.
Virgo (23 August - 22 September) Strong undercurrents from other people are making you feel
a little on edge. It seems everyone’s behaving oddly as though the sun’s gone to their heads. Even
you’re acting a bit out of character. However you should be able to smooth over any brewing trouble
with soothing words that just roll off the tongue. Those dulcet tones could prove very useful in July
when someone special is seduced by your pleasing manner. But charm disguises a burning inside which
is demanding release. You can easily deliver on the passionate promises you utter. There’s no escaping
when you switch on the charm offensive. 
Libra (23 September - 22 October) You’re determined to set the world on fire in July. You’re
feeling hot and ready to take the plunge with someone special. You fell passion and are fierce
8 Florida’s Caribbean Sun

Scorpio (23 October - 21 November) A powerful and meaningful connection with someone
is on the cards, whether you know them or not already. All yours stars lined up means love and
passion in equal measures. You’re a force to be reckoned with and when you set your sights on your ideal
partner there will be no stopping you getting them, whether they like it or not! I doubt anyone would
argue with you even if they could, it’s a huge ego boost to be so utterly adored. You may also be tempted
to take a big financial risk this month, but practice caution if you can because there’s no guarantee of a
settled outcome. 
Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) You’re feeling a lot of energy as the month starts,
leaving others behind as you bounce from one task to another. Watch out for ego clashes with
other strong personalities who want the limelight too. Mid July sees you caught up in heated exchanges
with people for whom you can barely disguise your passion. You think up all kinds of things that sends
your pulse racing and your mind conjuring up all sorts of thrilling escapades for yourself and your amour.
You are a born traveler and goodhearted person and now is a great time to in indulge both of these. 
Capricorn (22 December - 16 January) The month begins with a feeling of harmony and
balance and you are feeling a bit more confident about your financial circumstances. You feel
at ease expressing your deeper feelings to loved ones too. However as the month moves forward the
possibility of some tension between your work and domestic life increases, but any challenges you face
could be a positive way of clearing the air and therefore making progress in both these areas. If the
tension in the air does boil over you can be consoled by the fact that it’s all a storm in a tea cup and will
settle soon.
Aquarius (20 January - 18 February) Arguments with siblings, close friends and partners are
possible this month and any trouble that does occur could simply be little more than hot air and
boldness from everybody concerned. Day to day activities and getting about your normal routine, things
you normally take for granted, could have a lot of hiccups in July. Try not to be everywhere at once or
race about trying to achieve too many things; no one is expecting miracles so stop trying to perform
them. Relationships have taken a serious turn recently, and this will become a focus of the month, but
you should start seeing the situation more clearly. 
Pisces (19 February - 20 March) July is a good month to pour your energy into sorting out
money matters and starting schemes that will see your cash working harder for you. Thinking of
all the adventures you could soon afford to go on will be more than enough of an incentive to get wise
with your dough - money equals freedom for you this month. Be careful not to fall for the charms of
sweet talkers who aren’t exactly what they are making themselves out to be. Overall you can expect to
be putting in a lot of effort this month and working hard in a lot of areas in your life but things will settle
down toward the end of July.
 Some States Enacting Harsh Immigration Laws,
Florida May Consider Arizona-type Law
– Continued from page 1 –

the constitutionality of this Arizona law.
In addition, President Obama publicly
objected to the Arizona law and his
administration has decided to file a lawsuit
to strike down the Arizona law aimed at
deporting illegal immigrants. When the
U.S. State Attorney files suit against
Arizona, there will be a fierce national
debate over how the United States should
enforce immigration policies.
More recently, Fremont, Nebraska
passed an ordinance that requires among
other things that renters apply for an
occupancy license - which also requires
a legal immigration status check - before
renting an apartment or home. There is an
increasing trend among state governments,
like Arizona and Nebraska, to propose
measures designed to control and manage
immigration. Until the federal government
enacts comprehensive immigration
reform, there will be many more attempts
by state and local governments to pass
overreaching unconstitutional immigration
bills. In Florida, the head of the Florida
House’s criminal justice committee
says he’s considering the introduction
of an Arizona-style law against illegal
immigrants. Rep. William Snyder, a Stuart
Republican and former police officer, says
he would “unequivocally” support such a
law in Florida.
The pending lawsuits seeking to challenge
the Arizona and Nebraska law will argue
that state and local governments’ regulation
of immigration and criminalizing illegal
immigrants is unconstitutional because it
violates the Supremacy Clause, the First
Amendment, the Fourth Amendment,
the Due Process Clause, the Privileges
and Immunities Clause, and the Equal
Protection Clause. In short, the Constitution
is clear that only the Federal government
can act in certain areas and immigration
is one of those areas; thereby, the state
government cannot legislate or act in an
area that would be in conflict with the
Federal law (in this case the Immigration
and Nationality Act).
The Obama Administration and Congress
must put the immigration issue squarely
back where it belongs - in the halls of
Congress and on the desk of the President
of the United States.

Family Policy Must

Include Fathers
The current economic crisis has put untold pressure on thousands of families including
several Caribbean American families in Florida. This has led to a significant increase in
marital separations and divorce which has severely impacted family life. This is true for
both poor and “better off” families.

While there are programs serving disrupted families by trying to improve children’s
lives, and helping children often translates into “family” policy, far too often, the notion
of “family” translates into a focus on mothers and children. According to a new report
from the Center for American Progress (CAP) entitled “Low-Income Fathers Need to Get
Connected,” the focus of family policy needs to include fathers as well.

According to the report men are able to financially contribute to their children’s well-
being and help lift them out of poverty in the short term. They also provide care and
emotional supports that can improve children’s life outcomes and help break the cycle of
poverty in the long term.

Unfortunately, far too many low-income men, and especially men of color, face
barriers to playing these roles in their children’s lives. This paper reveals how fathers
are disproportionately disconnected from some extremely vital domains, and how these
disconnections harm them, their children, and families more generally.

The report offers the following recommendations for how the Obama administration’s
proposed Fatherhood, Marriage, and Families Innovation Fund should be used to help
low-income families:

• Further include men within the notion of “family” for policy purposes
• Reduce poverty by addressing the known disconnections and challenges of fathers
• Offer comprehensive solutions that address the complexities arising from men’s various
disconnections
• Relieve stressors that divide families, which would provide them with greater freedom
to make personal choices about family formation and maintenance based on reasons other
than those associated with poverty

Many immigrants from the Caribbean are of the view that the US legal system is geared
to punishing men and this has led to disconnect on the part of fathers, says Orin Gordon, a
Dominica-born sociologist. He agrees that family policy lacks sufficient focus on fathers
and advocates a revision of policies and laws that would encourage greater respect and
encouragement for the role of the father in family life.

Postponed Jamaica Diaspora

Confab slated for June 2011
The postponed fourth Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, originally scheduled for
June 14 to 17 at the Sunset Jamaica Grande, Ocho Rios, St. Ann could be rescheduled for
2011.

The conference was postponed due to the state of emergency in Jamaica brought on
by violence associated with the hunt for alleged drug lord Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke.
There were mixed reactions among Jamaicans in the Diaspora to the postponement of the
meeting.

Chair of the Diaspora Conference Planning Committee and General Manager of Jamaica
National Building Society (JNBS), Earl Jarrett, said the Conference may be held June,
2011.

"As I understand it, we are going to continue with the convention theme, which is to host
it right here in this hotel, Jamaica Grande, in Ocho Rios," Mr. Jarrett told a Forum on
Diaspora matters, organized by the United Kingdom Diaspora group on June 16, at the
Jamaica Grande Hotel.
Florida’s Caribbean Sun is published by
He said the 5th Jamaican Diaspora Convention is being contemplated for London, Caribbean Sun Publishers, LLC
England, in 2012, at the same time of the Summer Olympics.
1013 N. Pine Hills Road, Orlando, FL 32808
"2012 is the 50th Anniversary of Jamaica's Independence. It is also the year in which Phone (407) 374-2979
you'll have the largest concentration of Jamaicans in any one place, when they turn up Email: caribbeansunnews@gmail.com
in the UK to beat the colonizers in athletics. We hope to be in London in 2012 in large Administrative Manager: Melinda Gordon
numbers, showing the best of Jamaica," he stated. Advertising: Vanessa Chin Churaman (407) 325-5466
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 9
 New Peoples’ Government in
Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago has a new peoples’
government and for the first time a woman
is at the helm of government in the twin-
island Caribbean republic.

Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar
Persad-Bissessar was swept to power as
part of an opposition coalition, toppling
the PNM government in recent national
elections. Former Prime Minister Patrick
Manning called surprise elections midway
in his five year term following several
scandals which beset his administration.
Manning has since stepped down as
leader of the Peoples National Movement
(PNM). The new Opposition Leader is Dr.
Keith Rowley.

The new prime minister has named a 25-member cabinet. In making the announcement,
the prime minister said the team possesses diverse skills and expertise. She also sought
to warn ministers that they should neither become "aloof" nor accept mediocrity. "Never
become aloof, stay grounded, keep connected to the people, earn their respect," she said,
adding there is "no room for personal egos."

"This is not about us, it is about the people, they have the power to dismiss us," she said,
warning also that "there is no room for arrogance" and no "time for personal agendas".

Among those taking the oath before President George Maxwell Richards was the Vice
President of FIFA, Austin Jack Warner, who is also chairman of the United National
Congress. He was sworn in as Minister of Works and Transport, while former head of
the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, Brigadier John Sandy was named Minister of
National Security.

right0The former President of the powerful Oilfield Workers Trade Union, Errol Mcleod,
was named Minister of Labour, Small and Macro Enterprise Development. Former Central
Bank governor and leader of the Congress of the People party, Winston Dookeran, was
sworn in as Minister of Finance, while former independent senator Mary King was given
the portfolio of Planning, Economic and Social Restructuring and Gender Affairs.

Controversial former High Court judge Hubert Volney was sworn in as minister of justice,
while attorney Prakash Ramadhar was named Minister of Legal Affairs. Former speaker
of the Trinidad and Tobago parliament, Dr Rupert Griffith was named minister of tourism,
while the new Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs is the former national swim coach and
talk show host, Anil Roberts.

The newly created Ministry of Tobago Development has been handed to Vernalla Alleyne
Toppin, the successful Tobago Organisation of the People (TOP) candidate, while Nizam
Baksh, a long serving legislator, has been named Minister of Community Development.
Stephen Cadiz is the new Minister of Trade and Industry, while the Minister of Energy
and Energy Affairs is Carolyn Seepersad Bachan.

Former mayor of Chaguanas, Surujrattan Rambachan is the Minister of Foreign Affairs,

while Dr Roodial Moonilal is the Minister of Housing and the Environment. Vasant
Bharath, who was not considered among the candidates to contest the elections has been
sworn in as the Minister of Food Production, Lands and Marine Affairs, while Chandresh
Sharma is the Minister of Local Government. Former calypso monarch, Winston 'Gypsy'
Peters, is the Minister of Arts and Culture, while the Minister of Public Utilities is
Emmanuel George.

New Trinidad and Tobago Cabinet

• Prime Minister and Minister of Information and Communication:

Kamla Persad Bissessar
• Attorney General: Anand Ramlogan
• Minister of Finance: Winston Dookeran
• Minister of Works and Transport: Austin Jack Warner
• Minister of Education: Dr. Tim Goopeesingh
• Minister of Justice: Hubert Volney
• Minister of Legal Affairs: Prakash Ramadhar
• Minister of Labour, Small and Macro Enterprise Development: Errol Mcleod
• Minister of Housing and Environment: Dr. Roodial Moonilal
• Minister of Trade and Industry: Stephen Cadiz
• Minister of Arts and Culture: Winston Peters
• Minister of National Security: Brigadier John Sandy
• Minister of Energy and Energy Affairs: Carolyn Seepersad Bachan
• Minister of Foreign Affairs: Surujrattan Rambachan
• Minister of Public Administration: Nan Ramgoolam
• Minister of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education: Fazal Karim
• Minister of Public Utilities: Emmanuel George
• Minister of Health: Teres Baptiste Cornelius
• Minister of Food Production, Lands and Marine Affairs: Vasant Bharath
SUPPORT OUR
ADVERTISERS …
• Minister of Planning, Economic Social Restructuring and Gender Affairs: Mary King
• Minister of Local Government: Chandresh Sharma
• Minister of Tourism: Dr. Rupert Griffith
• Minister of Peoples and Social Development: Dr. Glen Ramdharsingh
• Minister of Community Development: Nizam Baksh
• Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs: Anil Roberts
TELL THEM YOU SAW THEIR AD IN
• Minister of Tobago Development: Vernalla Alleyne Toppin FLORIDA’S CARIBBEAN SUN!
10 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
 Obama Praises Caribbean Immigrants’ Efforts To Ensure
“Their Children Can Achieve Something Greater”
Following is the text of the Proclamation:
A PROCLAMATION
Our Nation is linked to the Caribbean by
our geography as well as our shared past
and common aspirations. During National
Caribbean-American Heritage Month,
we pay tribute to the diverse cultures
and immeasurable contributions of all
Americans who trace their heritage to the
Caribbean.
Throughout our history, immigrants
from Caribbean countries have come
to our shores seeking better lives and
opportunities. Others were brought
against their will in the bonds of slavery.
– Continued from page 1 –
All have strived to ensure their children
could achieve something greater and have
preserved the promise of America for
future generations.
During the month of June, we also honor
the bonds of friendship between the
United States and Caribbean countries.
This year’s devastating earthquake in
Haiti has brought untold grief to the
Haitian-American community, many
who continue to mourn the loss of loved
ones as they help rebuild their homeland.
These families and individuals remain
in our thoughts and prayers. The United
States has proudly played a leading role
in the international response to this crisis,
which included vital contributions from
countries throughout the Caribbean. As
Haiti recovers, we will remain a steady
and reliable partner.
This month, we celebrate the triumph
of Caribbean Americans, a diverse
community that encompasses many
nationalities and languages. They have
become leaders in every sector of American
life while maintaining the varied traditions
of their countries of origin. Caribbean
Americans enrich our national character
and strengthen the fabric of our culture,
and we are proud they are part of the
American family.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK
OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested
in me by the Constitution and the laws of
the United States, do hereby proclaim June
2010 as National Caribbean-American
Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans
to celebrate the history and culture of
Caribbean Americans with appropriate
ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto
set my hand this twenty-eighth day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand
ten, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and
thirty-fourth.

It Was Hot … Hot … Hot at Tampa Bay Carnival

By Michelle Allman

The internationally famous Shaggy, Daddy

Yankee and Allison Hinds thrilled the
crowd at Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival
but Orlando’s own Leon Caldero with
his Code 868 band was not to be outdone
sending revelers wild with his body
gyrations.

Thousands braved the almost 100 degree

temperature to enjoy two days of genuine
Caribbean culture which was enriched with
the presence from Trinidad and Tobago of
Deperadoes steel orchestra, considered the
best steel band in the world.

The diversity of the Caribbean culture

was displayed further with performances
by the Tampa tassa drummers, junkanoo
masqueraders, bands from Haiti and
Dominica and an evening of top shelf
reggaeton.

The Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival

Association kicked off its 2010 Carnival Tampa Tassa Drummers
event with a Reggaeton/Latin event in the
park on Saturday, June 12th with a live performance by Ramón “Raymond” Luis Ayala 1st place with Bunji Garlin for the Young King title. One of his most popular hits is “Mor
Rodríguez better known as Daddy Yankee, the Latin Gammy Award winning Puerto Tor” featuring Trini soca star Machel Montano. In 2007 he released hits such as “Aj Bhi
Rican recording artist. Jeena” and “Bodekidal.” His latest hit is Barman.

Daddy Yankee was born in Río Piedras, the largest district of San Juan on February
3, 1977, where he became interested in music at a young age. As a youth he became
interested in baseball and aspired to become a Major League Baseball player, but was
unable to continue that sport when he received an injury to one of his legs, leaving him
unable to walk correctly. He then became involved with underground rap which is today
Reggaeton. Having received lessons from several artists within the genre, he developed
his own independent career, first recording in a production title Playero 37. He’s known
as one of many pioneers of the reggaeton genre. He has been generally reticent to discuss
his personal life, but publicly expressed the importance of his wife and children to him.
Outside of his music, he also worked as an actor and producer.
Then on Sunday, June 13th the road mach started with all the mass bands on the road
and later that afternoon there were live performances by Rikki Jai who is a Trinidadian
Chutney/Soca artiste In 1988 his debut hit single Sumintra, told the tale of an Indo-
Trinidadian woman from Debe who informed her boyfriend of her preference of soca
over the music of Indian artist Lata Mangeshkar. Jai returned the following year with the
song “Pumping, then Bolo and Show Me Yuh Motion.
Then in 1993 another hit Wine on a Bumsee signaled Jai’s exit from the soca world,
opting for the “chutney soca” arena, in which he currently performs. In 2001 he tied for
Allison Hinds then hit the stage to send the crowd into a frenzy with an almost hour-long
performance during which she “dished out” several of her hits.
Born June 1st, 1970, Hinds is a Barbadian female soca artist. She is known as the
undisputed Soca Queen and one of the most popular soca singers worldwide, from which
she got her nickname “Queen of Soca.” Hinds had produced many popular songs such as
“Ragamuffin, Aye Aye Aye, Twister, Faluma, Togetherness, DJ Ride, Sweetest Wine, Iron
Bazodee, Fireworks, Roll It Gal and Love Affair, Soca In My Body,” that have topped the
charts, even in countries which don’t widely listen to soca.
Hinds has recorded songs with many famous artists such as Admiral T, Beenie Man,
Calypso Rose, Burning Flames, Drupatee Ramgoonai, Wyclef Jean, Canibus, Red Rat,
Shaggy, Sparrow, Denise Belfon, Ken Marlon Charles (KMC), Destra, Walker Hornung,
Vybz Kartel, G-Unit, Black Stalin, David Rudder, Buju Banton, Mr. Vegas, Doug E.
Fresh, Pitbull and Machel Montano and many more.
On Sunday, May 30th, Hinds was in Orlando to share in the second anniversary
celebration of Karibbean Under One Magazine. She is slated to perform at this year’s
Miami Caribbean Carnival.
The headline performer Orville Richard Burrell, known as Shaggy performed for less
than 30 minutes- much to his own disappointment. He told the large crowd that he was
in Tampa Bay all day long just waiting for the call to hit the stage. But he did not hit the
stage until about half an hour before closing time. Nevertheless he gave his audience an
enthusiastic performance, sending them into prolonged laughter when advising them to be
like Bill Clinton rather than Tiger Woods in proclaiming…..It Wasn’t Me.

A Jamaican born dancehall/reggae singer, Shaggy is known for his distinctive, raspy
sub-baritone voice. In 2000 his fifth album “Hot Shot” proved much success with the
misogynistic hit single “It Wasn’t Me,” featuring guest vocals of singer RikRok, which
tells of advice from one friend to another to just deny it when your girlfriend catches
you with another woman. That single became Shaggy’s first No. 1 hit in the US, with the
follow-up single “Angel” with guest vocalist Rayvon, which hit No. 1 and helped “Hot
Shot” achieve multi-platinum status.

In September 2007 Shaggy released his eighth studio album Intoxication, on his own
record label Big Yard Records and is still going strong as we saw at 2010 Tampa Bay
Carnival.

MC’s for the event were Ian ‘Degoose’ Eligon and Orlando’s own ‘Mad Man Smallie’ of
De Whoops Massive/The Vybes.
Section of the crowd enjoying themselves.
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 11
 SPORTS!
Powell and Gay to Meet July 10 Central Florida Wins Regional
Former world record holder Asafa Powell
and world silver medalist Tyson Gay will
meet for the first time this season over 100
Cricket Tournament
meters at the Diamond League meeting in
Gateshead on July 10, the IAAF said. 
Gay, the second-fastest man in the world
behind record holder Usain Bolt, has
changed his distance from the 200 to the
100 for the Gateshead meeting. 
“I know that I have a pretty serious race
lined up with Gay competing as well and
I’ll be going all out to make sure that I get
a faster time,” Jamaican Powell, the fastest
man this year, said in a statement.
“Myself and Tyson are clearly the two that
are going after the world record but I truly believe that it’s mine to lose at the moment.”
American Gay, who has had a back problem, has yet to make his debut in the Diamond
League series. The pair will face each other again in London in August. 
“Racing against Asafa in London and Gateshead will mean that we are pushing each other
to run faster and get closer to that 9.50 that I see as a real possibility and something that
I’m aiming for,” Gay said. 
Bolt’s world record is 9.58 seconds, set at last year’s Berlin world championships.
 

2010 Caribbean Central Florida Cricket Association recently won the 2010 South East Region (SER)

Central American
cricket championship on better run rate after ending with a tie on the points table with
Florida Southeast Cricket League (FSCL).   

Games Start July 17
The 21st Central American and Caribbean
Games will be held in Mayagüez, Puerto
Rico, from July 17, 2010 to August 1, 2010.
It’s the third time Puerto Rico hosts the Central
American and Caribbean Games, the others
being San Juan in 1966, and Ponce in 1993.
The city of Mayagüez had been selected
previously to hold the games in 1982, but
economic problems forced the city to quit the
organization, and the games were held in La
Central Florida’s first match against last year’s champions, Georgia Supreme Cricket
League was rained out, but they defeated Atlanta Georgia Cricket Conference convincingly
in the second match, and in the third, they crushed Mid Atlantic Cricket Conference
(MACC) to take the 2010 Southeast Regional Tournament. 
Notably, last year’s champion Georgia Supreme Cricket League was defeated by FSCL. 
South Florida Cricket Association (SFCA) entered a young team in the competition -
losing the near-term battle but laying the foundation for the long-term.  Luther Anderson’s
undefeated 106 stole the spotlight for Central Florida and Victor Charles and Ricky Nayar
stood out for FSCL and SFCA respectively. 

Jamaican Dustin Brown May

Habana, Cuba.
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa -
CONCACAF Vice President Lisle A total of 4,965 athletes will participate in 39

Switch To Represent Britain

Austin was awarded the FIFA Order of sports to be held across Puerto Rico, Colombia,
Merit, bestowed with the honor along Guatemala, and Guyana. The opening
with five others including former Dutch ceremony will be held on July 17, 2010 in
international and ex-Barcelona manager Mayagüez Central American Stadium.

Cuba, Guyana Vie

Johan Cruyff.
Presented with the award at the FIFA
Congress prior to the start of the World
Cup, the 74-year-old Austin was cited
for helping shape the sport in his native
Barbados and the CONCACAF region
through a “tireless commitment to the
game.”
A former general secretary and president
of the Barbados Football Association,
Austin was a founding member of the
Caribbean Football Union in 1978 and
has been a member of the CONCACAF
Executive Committee since 1982.
He is chairman of the CONCACAF and
CFU referee’s committee and has been a
member of the FIFA referee’s panel since
2001.
Besides Austin and Cruyff, FIFA also
presented the Order of Merit to Thabo
Mbeki and Molefi Oliphant of South
Africa, Holger Olbermann of Germany
and Steven Summer of New Zealand.
For Final Berth in
Women’s Soccer
HAVANA, Cuba - Yezenia Gallardo scored her sixth
goal in four games to give Cuba a 1-0 victory over
Guyana on Saturday (June 26) in the first leg of their
Caribbean playoff, seizing the early advantage in the
bid for the final berth in CONCACAF Women’s Gold
Cup.
The two will face off again on July 3 in Guyana for
the second leg to determine the eighth and last team
in the continental championship finals.
Gallardo scored in the 22nd minute, adding to the
three goals she tallied in a 6-1 victory over Antigua
and Barbuda, and the pair she had against Puerto Rico
in a 4-3 win.
Cuba and Guyana are seeking to join Canada,
Mexico, the United States, Costa Rica, Guatemala
and fellow Caribbean sides Trinidad and Haiti in the
CONCACAF finals set for late October and early
November.
Dustin Brown, the first Jamaican to play at Wimbledon in 40 years, has complained about
the lack of support from the Jamaica Tennis Federation and is exploring the possibility of
representing England. Brown recently lost 6-3 4-6 6-2 6-3 to Austrian 16th seed Jurgen
Melzer in their first-round clash . 
Brown, one of the most improved players on the circuit who has climbed more than 350
places in the rankings to 105, indicated that he would be interested in representing Britain,
if asked. He is also checking into the British roots of his father with a view to switching
nationality.
He said the Jamaican authorities “are not giving me any funds, no coaching, no help. And
it doesn’t really help getting an e-mail two days ago telling me congratulations on your
wild card for Wimbledon.
“They are not doing their job, everybody knows it,” said the 25-year-old with a Jamaican
father and a German mother. 
The dreadlocked Jamaican, sporting bright orange and lime laces and a pair of vivid
yellow wristbands, had a vociferous fan club of supporters waving a giant “Dustin wins!”
banner.

Brown, who toured the circuit in a camper van given to him by his mother, has a
booming serve and a deadly whipped forehand but he could not maintain that intensity at
Wimbledon.

End The Feud, New PM Tells Cricket Authorities

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the new Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, has urged the
West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) to
end their ongoing feud for the betterment of cricket in the region.
“I am calling on the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) and the West Indies Cricket
Board (WICB) to improve their relationship in order to return cricket to its glory days.
Both parties must have mutual trust, respect and full disclosure in order to achieve better
relations,” Persad-Bissessar said at a WIPA awards ceremony recently.
“Blame is the comfort of the weak. Change is the name of a warrior, so we must be willing
to make that change that would make a difference and not keep blaming each other.”
The WIPA and the WICB have been at loggerheads over the issue of player contracts as
well as the running of West Indies cricket. Their stand-off reached its peak when several
senior West Indies players boycotted the Test series against Bangladesh at home in 2009,
and missed the entire tour. A second-string team was chosen to play the series, eventually
12
resulting in a series defeat in both the Tests and ODIs.
“The game of cricket means so much to us, it defines us, it unites us and it gives us a sense
of belonging. Caricom [The Caribbean Community] cannot produce anything that can
resonate as cricket does in the region,” Persad-Bissessar added.
“Caribbean governments must play the part as the proverbial twelfth man in the
field of cricket. We have a responsibility to be always ready to get involved in cricket
education.”
She went on to say that the Caribbean governments “must be part of the process of rebuilding
the sport and there can be no more important initiative than cricket education.”
“Our failure to do this would mean that we lose the game and by extension the one
platform that holds us together and gives us that shared destiny which we proudly display
to the world.”
Florida’s Caribbean Sun