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NEWS YOU CAN USE ! Vol. 8 No. 3· April 2011

T
he government of
Jamaica has invit-
ed President
Barack Obama to
the island-nation and dis-
cussions are currently tak-
ing place that could lead to
a visit “soon”, Jamaica’s
ambassador to the United
States, Audrey Marks dis-
closed during a recent visit
to Florida.
Ambassador Marks visited
south and central Florida
happen soon,” Ambassador steadily improving and
during which she met with
Marks said in response to a that President Obama has
members of the Jamaican
question about a possible expressed the desire that
Diaspora, elected officials,
visit by the US president to the two countries work to-
business leaders and the
Jamaica. She said that re- gether to address issues of
media.
lations between the two mutual concern.
“There are discussions go- countries, which were
(more Jamaica news inside)
ing on and I expect it to strained at one period, are

Jamaican Ambassador visits Florida

J
amaica’s Ambassador to
the USA, Her Excellency
Audrey Marks says that
the Diaspora has a
unique contribution to
make to Jamaica’s development.
She was speaking to nationals at
a recent Community Luncheon
hosted by the Caribbean Bar As-
sociation of Central Florida
(CBACF), and the Jamaican
American Association of Central
Florida (JAACF) at the Rosen
Plaza Hotel in Orlando recently.
The event was chaired by Mr.
Wayne Golding, President of the
CBACF. Welcome remarks were
given by Jamaica’s Consulate
General, Sandra Grant Griffiths
and Mrs. Sandra Fatmi, Board
member of the JAACF.
Ambassador Marks urged nation-
als to re-evaluate their passion
for Jamaica by becoming en-
gaged and empowered in the po-
litical decision-making process
of the local communities in
which they resided overseas.
More importantly, she encour-
aged those nationals who were
Jamaica’s Ambassador to USA, Her Excellency
Audrey Marks (right) sharing a moment with
Mayor of Orlando, Hon. Buddy Dyer when she
paid a courtesy call to the City of Orlando
eligible, to become citizens of the United
States. She said that they would be better
able to leverage their size as a community
for their personal as well as for Jamaica’s
economic development.
The Ambassador who was on her first offi-
cial visit to the South Florida community
had also used the opportunity to visit na-
tionals in Central Florida. During her na-
tional outreach across Diaspora communi-
ties throughout the USA, Ms. Marks ob-
served that the passion of the nationals
she encountered reflected an interest in
their homeland, and simultaneously they
also demonstrated a positive impact on the
development of communities here in the
USA.
She noted that Jamaicans have been con-
tributing to the development of the United
States more than 200 years ago with the
migration of John Brown Russworm, an Af-
rican-Jamaica, who became the first Afri-
can-American to graduate from Bowdoin
College and the third college graduate of
his race. Russworm went on to become co-
founder and co-editor of Freedom’s Jour-
nal, Black America’s first newspaper.
She chronicled years of migrant activities
that laid the foundation for the long-
standing friendship (continued on page 9)

Guyana Family Fun Day May 29

Police Force Band from Guyana may perform

G
uyanese in Central Florida will cel-
ebrate the country’s 45th anniver-
sary of Independence with a Fami-
ly Fun Day on Sunday, May 29, at
the pavilion at the Central Florida Fair-
grounds on West Colonial Drive.
The event will feature music and dance, an
exhibition of arts, craft and goods and ser-
vices offered by Guyanese and other Carib-
bean entrepreneurs, games for the kids, a
car show and an auction.
The Supertones Band, Creig Camacho, DJ Al
and DJ Gary Osman have already signed on
to perform at the event which is likely to
see the Guyana Police Force Band perform,
if arrangements are concluded for a six city
Florida tour by the band.
Guyana’s Honorary Consul General Ram Ali
confirmed that the Guyana Police Force
Band has been invited to perform in six
Florida cities during the last week in May
and discussions are currently taking place
about the visit. He said Guyana’s president
Bharrat Jagdeo has also been invited to visit
Florida at the same time. The Family Fun
Day is being put on by Timehri Restaurant
“The Venue” in conjunction with Florida’s
Caribbean Sun newspaper with support from
other members of the Guyanese American
business community. Among the companies
supporting the event are Circa Restaurant,
A&A Halal Distributors, AA Ali CPA, Singh’s
Roti Shop, Law Offices of Gail Seeram, Flori-
da Softball Cricket Association, Caribbean
Supercenter, Laparkan Shipping, Celina’s
Market, Magic Suds Carwash, Seafreight
Agencies, Caribbean Airlines, Singh’s Jewel-
ry, Chand’s West Indian Grocery, Shakera’s
Restaurant, The Highland Agency, Furniture
Kingdom, Exclusive Countertops and Cabi-
netry, Exclusive Auto Body & Repair, Errol
Baines and Family, Aftab Trucking, Training
by Kash and Advanced Auto, among others.
Entry to this event is free of cost but a lim-
ited number of tables each seating 10 per-
sons will be reserved for $50 for those who
wish to sit and enjoy the performances.
Timehri Restaurant proprietor Lake Narain
told Caribbean Sun that the event is not for
profit and that the financial support of the
business community will be used to cover
the costs of renting the Fairground facili-
ties, promotional and advertising material,
contracting the bands, DJ’s, sound equip-
ment and stage and providing prizes and
trophies for the kids games.
This is a free event and will go on regardless
of the weather since it is being held in a pa-
vilion. Parking is free as well. This event,
although it will be held on the same day as
the Orlando Carnival is not in competition
with the Carnival. The families that will
come to this event are not the type that will
go to Carnival. The younger people will go
to both,” Narain said.
 Know Your Rights Forum Offers Free Legal Advice to Community
On April 8, 2011, the Orange County Sheriff Depart-
ment’s Caribbean-American Advisory Committee hosted
a free legal forum that was attended by over two hun-
dred residents of Orange County. The panelists of legal
experts were comprised of Sheriff Jerry L. Demings, Hon.
Judge Alicia L. Latimore, Immigration Attorney Gail See-
ram, State Attorney Orley Burey, Criminal Attorney Rich-
ard Hornsby, Foreclosure Attorney Karla Valladares,
Criminal Attorney Wayne Golding and Dr. Joyce H. Hen-
ry, ACLU Mid-Florida Region Director.
Various community organizations came together to pro-
mote the event on local radio, television, newspaper,
and within their organizations. The forum was held at
Eglise Christ Sanctifie church, a local church in the Pine
Hills area. According to Immigration Attorney Gail See-
ram, “I volunteered to coordinate this legal forum on
behalf of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department be-
cause the ordinary citizen is unaware of their basic rights
when dealing with the police, the judicial system, and
immigration officials.”
What are your rights during a traffic stop? Sheriff officer because the complaint can be used during the
Demings advised that a police officer can stop an individ- court proceedings.
ual who is walking, riding a bike or driving a vehicle. He
noted that when an police officer approaches your vehi-
cle, it is recommended to keep your hands visible to the
police officer. The recommendation was made to keep
your hands on the steering wheel. According to Criminal
Attorney Richard Hornsby, the police officer can only ask
you for a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and
proof of registration. If an incident occurs where you
feel your rights are violated, then Judge Alicia L. Lati-
more suggested that you not fight it out with the police
officer on the street but rather wait until you are in
court before a Judge. Criminal Attorney Wayne Golding
Florida’s Caribbean Sun
reminded the attendees that a police
officer can charge you with resisting
arrest without violence if you don’t
cooperate or interfere with the police
officer’s investigation during the traffic
stop. State Attorney Orley Burey stat-
ed that his office and the courts do not
look favorably on anyone who hits or
pushes a police officer. In the situa-
tion where you are unsure if you are
under arrest, you can simply ask the
police officer, “Am I free to go?” Ac-
cording to State Attorney Orley Burey,
if the police officer says “No”, then you
must remain until the police officer
completes his investigation. Further,
Sheriff Demings stated that there is a process available tion and stated, “Yes, case law supports that the police
where you can file a complaint if you feel you were officer can lie to you. This is why you should remain
wrongly treated by a police officer. In response, Crimi- silent until you have your attorney present.” According
nal Attorney Richard Hornsby suggested to not file a to Sheriff Demings, you are allowed to make a phone
complaint if you are pursuing a case against the police call once processing in the jail is complete. Judge Alicia
L. Latimore mentioned that a court hearing is scheduled
between 24-48 hours after your arrest. If you qualify, a
public defender will be assigned to your case.
What are your rights in jail & court? In the situation
where you are arrested, Dr. Joyce H. Henry reminded What are your rights when dealing with Immigra-
the attendees that you have the right to remain silent tion? The audience inquired about an immigration
and do not have to answer any questions by the police hold. Immigration Attorney Gail Seeram explained when
officer. Once you exercise your right to an attorney by you are booked into jail, your information is ran through
saying “I want to talk to my attorney”, then the police an immigration database and if you may face removal/
officer must stop asking you questions. If they continue deportation due to a conviction or are unlawfully in the
to ask you questions, you have the right to not answer U.S., then an immigration hold will be placed on your
any questions. Someone from the audience asked, “Can release. Thereby, you cannot be bonded out or released
a police officer tell a lie to me to gain information?” on your own recognizance if an immigration hold is
Criminal Attorney Richard Hornsby answered the ques- placed on you. ….. Cont’d on the page 4
2
Donald Ramotar is PPP presidential candidate
P
PP General Secre-
tary Donald Ra-
motar has been
elected by consensus to be
the ruling party’s presiden-
tial candidate to contest
the 2011 general elections
in Guyana.
Granger
This was officially con-
firmed at a recent news
briefing following a meeting
of the party’s Central Com-
mittee (CC) at Freedom
House.Cabinet Secretary
Dr. Roger Luncheon, who
chairs the party’s selection
process, said Ramotar was
unanimously identified as
the presidential candidate.
“This consensual choice Peoples National Congress
Florida’s Caribbean Sun
Iwer George, Rikki Jai for
Orlando Carnival
reflects the party leader- Iwer George and downtown Orlando
ship’s commitment to Rikki Jai are among ending up at Festi-
maintaining party unity, the big names ex- val Field.
continuing progress in pected to perform at
Richard Yates, one
Guyana and building this year’s Orlando
of the lead organiz-
stronger unity at all levels Carnival, to be held
ers of the carnival
of the Guyanese nation,” on Sunday, May 29,
told Caribbean Sun
he said. 2011, at Festival
that the event is still
He added that no voting Field, opposite the
seeking sponsors
was required because the Citrus Bowl.
and called on the
three other candidates Also performing will Caribbean American
withdrew. The others were Ramotar be Antigua’s Tizzy, business community
Gail Teixeira, Clement Ro- Guyana’s QP and to support the
Reform has already elected
hee and Ralph Ramkarran. the Virgin Islands preservation of this
retired army Brigadier Da-
The decision of the CC will vid Granger as its choice Drive Band. They vital art form.
be formally endorsed by while the smaller opposi- will be joined by Le-
Vendor booths are
three county conferences. tion party Alliance For on Coldero and his
also available.
Code 868 band and
Ramotar’s victory was Change is running with the RAAG Band. The annual Orlando
widely expected even lawyer Khemraj Ramjattan. There will be tassa Caribbean Carnival
though many had har- Ramotar has been the PPP drumming, dancing attracts thousands
bored hopes that Speaker General Secretary since each year.
and the parade of
of the National Assembly 1997 following the death of bands through
Ramkarran would have tri- party founder and presi-
umphed if the party went dent Dr. Cheddi Jagan.
the way of a secret ballot. The 60-year-old is a gradu-
Ramotar’s election is al- ate of the University of
most certain to mark the Guyana’s Department of
commencement of Guy- Economics and hails from
ana’s general election cam- Caria Caria, Essequibo
paign. The main opposition River.
3
 As we truly strive to listen to our readers, we drive others and continue to seek both your
do thank you all for your input over the last support and opinion along the way as we con-
couple of months. We have had challenges and tinue to bring you the “ News You Can Use” .
will continue to rise above them. At your re- We will continue to earn your loyalty as we
quest we have brought back some oldies but continue to keep you informed about events
goodies like our Caribbean Profile. We have al- and information both here in Central Florida
so added some new columns like our lunar cal- and the Caribbean as we have done over the
endar and interjected some light heartedness years and look forward to your continued sup-
by way of The Best Medicine. We will test port as always. Happy Easter to one and all.

Know Your Rights Forum continued.

The Best Medicine
A Jamaican farmer named Ralph had By this time, the Judge was fairly
an accident with a lorry and was su- interested in Ralph's answer and said was reminded that permanent residents (or green card holders) can be deported from the U.S.
ing the lorry company. In court the
company’s hot-shot solicitor was
questioning Ralph.
Solicitor:
'Now didn't you say to the Police at
the scene of the accident, 'I'm fine?'
Ralph:
'Well , I'll tell you what happened. I
had just loaded my favorite cow Bes-
sie into the...'
Solicitor:
'I didn't ask for any details , just an- the other. I was hurt very bad like
swer the question. Did you not tell
the police officer at the scene of the could hear old Bessie moaning and
accident, "I'm fine !" ?'
Ralph:
'Well, I had just got Bessie into the
sidecar and I was driving down the
road.....'
The solicitor interrupted again and
said,
'Your Honor , I am trying to establish
the fact that , at the scene of the
accident this man told the police that
he was fine. Now several weeks after
the accident he is trying to sue my
client. I believe he is a fraud. Please
tell him to simply answer the ques-
tion.'
According to Immigration Attorney Gail Seeram, once your state case is complete, then Immi-
gration & Custom Enforcement (ICE) has 48 hours to take you into their custody. The audience
to the solicitor: for offenses such as grand theft, domestic violence, robbery, possession of marijuana, and oth-
er criminal offenses. There are certain reliefs available and it is advised to speak with an immi-
'I'd like to hear what he has to say gration attorney about your specific case.
about his favorite cow Bessie'.
What are your rights when in foreclosure? Foreclosure Attorney Karla Valladares stated
Ralph thanked the Judge and pro-
that in this country’s history, we have never seen this amount of foreclosures that exist in the
ceeded.
current market. She cautioned the audience to be aware of service providers and attorneys
'Well as I was saying, I had just load- that take large sums of money up-front or in monthly payments because foreclosure proceed-
ed Bessie , my favorite cow , into the ings can last up to one year. Additionally, she stated that you do not have to leave your home
sidecar and was driving her down the until a final order is filed. She reminded the audience that various options such as loan modifi-
road when this huge lorry and trailer cation short sales and foreclosure are available if your owe more than your home is valued.
came through a stop sign and hit me
Lastly, Dr. Joyce H. Henry stated that the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) offers assistance
right in the side. I was thrown into
to felons who need help in restoring their rights so they can vote, and regain basic rights afford-
one ditch and Bessie was thrown into
ed by the constitution. She also provided a status on the Florida Immigration Enforcement Act
(S.B. 2040) which is being fast-tracked through the Florida Senate and House. It is important to
and didn't want to move. However, I
note that certain provisions in this bill would criminalize living with or physically being present
with an undocumented immigrant.
groaning. I knew she was in terrible
pain just by her groans. Shortly after Attorney Gail Seeram plans to coordinate two more Know Your Rights forum within the year.
The Orange County Sheriff Department’s Caribbean-American Advisory Committee thanks
the accident a policeman on a mo-
torbike turned up. He could hear those who participated and contributed to the success of this free legal forum.
Bessie moaning and groaning so he
went over to her. After he looked at
her and saw her condition, he took
out his gun and shot her between
the eyes.
Then the policeman came charging
across the road, gun still in hand ,
looked me up and down , and said
'How badly are you hurt?'
'Now what the Rass would you have
said?'
One Love

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

Editor in Chief: Melinda Gordon

Chief Photographer/Editor: Mark Bannister

Managing Editor: Laverne McGee

Lifestyles Editor: Sharazade Kirton

Advertising: Vanessa Chin Churaman (407) 325-5466

Layout & Design by The Highland Agency, Inc.

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 4
 2011 Federal Budget Debate
April 15, 2011 cal cancer screening; sexually Opponents of Title X did not
transmitted disease (STD) and just go after Planned
Dear Neighbor, Human Immunodeficiency Vi- Parenthood, their legislation
rus (HIV) prevention educa- would have eliminated all $317
In an effort to keep you in- tion, counseling, testing and re- million in federal funding for
formed about how the actions ferral for low-income or unin- family planning and reproduc-
in Washington impact your life, sured individuals and others. tive health at clinics that serve
I bring you into Corrine’s Cor- To find a family planning clinic about five million low-income
ner. in your area click here. people each year. Fortunately,
these efforts failed.
This past week in Washington To further confuse matters, the The unprecedented assault on
has been very trying. It is al- conversation centered on one women’s health is just one of
ways a difficult task to make organization that receives Title the many reasons I have voted
ends meet in Washington just X funding, Planned against the Republican budgets
like with your own family. Ris- Parenthood, because it per- and I am very proud to stand
ing costs and a troubled econo- forms abortions using private with President Obama and the
my impact us all. It is our job in
funds. Few people noted that Democratic Leadership in de-
Congress to make tough deci- 97% of the procedures per- fending women. Moreover, I
sions that will encourage the formed by Planned Parenthood will continue to fight to protect
continual growth and health of involve contraception, sexually the gains we made in the last
our nation. transmitted diseases, cancer Congress in expanding commu-
screenings, and other non- nity health clinics, better care
The debate over the 2011 budg- abortion services. Overall, few- for veterans, and enhanced pa-
et took a sharp turn in the past er than five percent of Title X tients’ rights.
few weeks, placing a federal recipients are abortion provid-
program known as “The Title X ers. Sincerely,
Family Planning Program” un-
der attack. Family planning So what is the bottom line Corrine Brown
programs make up a significant here? By law, Title X funds may Member of Congress
portion of women’s health. not be used in programs where
There are over 20 healthcare abortion is a method of family Orlando Office
providers in our district alone planning. The recent Title X op- 805 S. Kirkman Rd.
that depend on Title X funding position is formed around a Suite 202
to administer vital services false sense of morality and has Orlando, FL. 32811
such as patient education and taken aim at one organization Tel 407-290-9031
counseling; breast and pelvic at the expense of public health.
examinations; breast and cervi-

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Florida’s Caribbean Sun 5

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 6
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 7
 GACACF MONTHLY MEETING AT PERMAUL RANCH © Mark Bannister

Cross section of the crowd at Caribbean Fusion held in Kissimmee in March FSCA Event at The Venue.
© Vanessa Churaman
© Vanessa Churaman

Milestones can be
such fun as Miss
Annesa Shaffee
turns 9!!
©Danny Dhanraj

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 8

 Jamaican Ambassador visits Florida
…..Continued from front page

and cooperation between Jamaica and the added that a restructuring of all the areas Orlando and Orange County, Mr. Buddy
United States. of trade implementation was in progress to Dyer, and Ms. Teresa Jacobs, respectively,
facilitate access to the channels of doing where there was a brief exchange of infor-
As she commended the nationals for their
business in Jamaica. mation regarding the mutually beneficial
outstanding contributions to their local
relationship that existed between Jamaica
communities abroad, the Ambassador en- Turning to the upcoming National Diaspo-
and the largely populated Diasporic com-
couraged them to celebrate their progress. ra Conference to be held in next June in
munities in the United States.
Jamaica, Ambassador Marks urged partic-
Turning to Jamaica’s economic develop-
ipation from all overseas community- The Ambassador was also accompanied by
ment, the Ambassador said that Govern-
based groups and individuals, and invited Consul Desreine Taylor of the Consulate
ment’s focus is now on trade and invest-
submissions so the agenda can be framed General of Jamaica and Superintendent
ment indicating that that efforts were be-
around issues concerning the Diaspora. Vance Carter, with responsibility for Immi-
ing made to unleash the entrepreneurial
gration and Deportation.
spirit of Jamaicans at home and in the Di- Earlier that day, Ambassador Marks paid
aspora. In this light, the Ambassador a courtesy call on the Mayors of the City of

Guyanese Pride Show Off Your Ride!

Fancy Car Show to be part of Guyana Family Day
Gu y a n e s e
like fancy
cars. Most
take care of
their cars
like they
take care of
their chil-
dren, or

Show which will form

part of the Guyana
Family Fun Day, Sun-
day May 29, at the Cen-
tral Florida Fair-
grounds.
The show, brainchild of Jamaica’s Ambassador to the USA, Her Excellency Ambassador Marks (center) sharing a congratulato-
ry moment with 2011 Awardee of the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) Orville “Shaggy” Burrell (left)
Guyanese entrepreneur and President of the AFJ, Ambassador Sue Cobb (right) at the annual Peacock Soiree held last Saturday
Lester Lall, will give at Jungle Island in Miami.
Lester Lall Guyanese an opportuni-
ty to show off their vehi-
even better. So for the LUNAR CALENDER FOR THE MONTH OF MAY
cles and to compete for
first time in Florida Guy- May 3rd - New Moon
prizes. “We love our
anese will have the op-
cars like we love our
May 9th - First Quarter
portunity to showcase May 17th - Full Moon
children and often go to
their fancy cars at the May 24th - Last Quarter
lengths to fancy up our
first ever Guyanese Pride
rides and this show will
Show Off Your Ride Car
give Guyanese an op-

portunity to showcase their cars

whether they are antiques or vehi-
cles modified to suit the tastes of
their owners,” Lall said.
Lall, owner of Circa Restaurant in
historic Winter Park, said there
are many Guyanese with “fancy
cars” who want to showcase their
vehicles but never get the oppor-
tunity to do so in an organized
way. ”This is their chance to show
off their creativity when it comes
to fancying up their rides,” he
said.
The daylong fancy car show will
meet with Guyanese cuisine, mu-
sic, dance and products as the
Guyanese Diaspora celebrates
their nation’s 45th anniversary of
Independence.

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 9


Amanda Nath receives Award check from Attorney Gail Seeram
Artist Sirju Mohan Solo Exhibit
A
manda P. Nath has been cation. My grandfather would preach
awarded the 2011 GAIL “yes, Mandy you keep pushing forward
Foundation Scholar- because when it is all said and done
ship. Miss Nath was also those people cannot steal your educa-
last month crowned a queen of the Miss tion- -for it is up here!” Then he would
Indo-Caribbean Sapna Pageant. She point to his head, shortly before testing
was presented the scholarship during me on my multiplication or “tables” as
the pageant. he would refer to it. There was never a
day that I was not reminded that in this
Attorney Gail S. Seeram put up the
country we as Americans are given the
$500.00 scholarship for a Guyanese
opportunity to become whatever we
college student with a grade point aver-
dare to be. Education is offered to eve-
age over 3.0 who could articulate how
ryone and what you choose to do with it
their Guyanese heritage impacted their
will reflect who you are separate; from
academic studies or career
whom you want to be! Since I was a
path. Among numerous entries, Aman-
child I came to know that only the pres-
da P. Nath was selected because she
tigious went to school in Guyana when
maintains a 3.3 grade point average
my parents and grandparents were
while studying Nursing at Florida Hos-
there and so education should not be
pital College of Health Sciences.
seen a chore but rather a privilege.”
In her e ssay , Amanda state d,
Attorney Gail S. Seeram will continue
“Thankfully, I’ve always had my family
to award this scholarship on an annual
and more importantly, my parents both
basis in an effort to encourage young
of Guyanese decent always reminding
Guyanese-American college students to
me to keep my eye on the prize. You
seek excellence in their academic stud-
see, growing up surrounded by so much

T
he Doreen Gauthier
Library, 2200 NE
38th Street, in Light-
house Point will host
a one-man art show, exhibit-
ing the works of Sirju See-
harack Mohan, during the
month of May. Mr. Mohan is
a native of Trinidad, currently
residing in Pompano Beach.
The art show opening is
scheduled for Thursday, May
5, 2011 from 5:00 PM to 8
PM. Attending the public re-
ception will be Lamar Fisher,
Mayor of Pompano Beach;
Charlotte Burrie, Pompano
Beach District 2 City Com-
missioner; Dr. Anil Ram-
nanan, Consul General of
family I was taught the value of edu-
Trinidad and Tobago; and
Kamal Abdool, President of
Trinidad and Tobago Diaspo-
ra.
This will be Mr. Mohanʼs first
solo exhibit in the United
States. He will display at
least fifty oil paintings, pas-
tels, watercolors, pencil and
pen and ink drawings, sculp-
tures, and calligraphy. Sever-
al examples of portraiture will
be included. All works will be
available for purchase. The
average size of his work is 16
inches by 20 inches; he will
show pieces as large as 2 feet
by 3 feet. He favors a mixed
color palette, with an open
and free style, to create real-
ies.
istic images of the human form,
landscapes, and seascapes. He
is experimenting with abstract
art, noting that, “There is a huge
market for the abstract here in
the U.S.”.
Mr. Mohan was born in San Fer-
nando, Trinidad, West Indies, and
attended St. Johnʼs EC School, a
primary education institution
where he was chosen the best art
student enrolled. His childhood
art works were always joyful, and
his extremely neat handwriting led
him to master calligraphy. He
then graduated from the San Fer-
nando Technical Institute, where
his art expanded and took on new
dimension. He used house paint
on hardboard, and depicted
scenes from his own life. His fo-
cus soon became the composition
of objects, the history of architec-
ture, and the tropical landscapes
of the Caribbean. He furthered
his studies at the University of the
West Indies and the University of
London; he mastered calligraphy
in Milan, Italy. Most recently, Mr.
Mohan received high honors from
the Stratford Career Institute for
his extensive use of all mediums
in art, and he earned a certificate
calligraphy and stone sculpture
through the Boca Raton communi-
ty schools. His favorite medium
remains oil paint.
He immigrated to Florida in 1988.

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 10

 SPORTS WORLD
Peter Wight honored by Somerset
S
omerset's second highest ever run
scorer Peter Wight was back at the
County Ground on recently to
watch the T20 game against Kent
during which he was inducted into the Hall
of Fame.
Between 1953 and 1965 the right hand
batsman played in 321 first class matches
for the Cidermen in which he scored a total
of 16965 runs at an average of 32.75,
which included 27 centuries with a highest
score of 222 not out against Kent at Taun-
ton in 1959.
Now a very sprightly and trim 80 year old
Peter was born in British Guiana explained
how he came to play for Somerset. "I had
just arrived from the West Indies, from
British Guiana that was, and played as an
amateur in the Central Lancashire
League." "I came down to have a two
week holiday with my sister at Woolaving-
ton near Bridgwater where Bill, my brother
in law, said why didn't I go and have a trial
with Somerset and he took me down the
first day- but it rained."
Peter Wight went on: "The coach asked me
to come back the next day and I said that I
would try but it might be a bit difficult be-
cause I had to travel by bus. I did come
back and within five minutes of watching
me batting in the nets he brought me out a
contract - which at first I didn't accept."
"However soon after that he asked me to
play for the Seconds in a match against
Gloucestershire and after then he asked
me to play against Australia."
Sir Garfield gives full backing to young Windies squad
West Indies legend Sir Garfield So-
bers joinedthe West Indies players at
their camp at the 3Ws Oval on Fri-
day.
The greatest allrounder of all time
was invited by Windies Head Coach
Ottis Gibson and he accepted the in-
vitation to discuss the game with
the players and also to monitor the
net session in the Garfield Sobers
Indoor Centre.
Sir Garfield shared his ideas on the
game and also urged the players to
believe in themselves and always re-
main focused on the job. He also
shared his thoughts on the changing
face of the modern game and told
the players they have his full back-
ing as they prepare to face Pakistan
in the upcoming Digicel Series.
Team Manager Richie Richardson
said it was a thrill to have Sir Gar-
field at the camp and said all the
players were delighted to have
the opportunity to interact with
him.
Florida’s Caribbean Sun
"I bagged it in the first innings but then I
got a hundred not out in the second and
that was the start of it." How did he feel
about being inducted into the Hall of
Fame. "It's an honor to have been made a
member of the Somerset Hall of Fame,
which I don't think I deserve but I am very
Peter Wight (left) is pictured
with Roy Kerslake
willing to accept it. I enjoyed the time that I
was here and unfortunately I couldn't go
on forever but I had a great time a loved
every moment.
The Somerset crowd were magnificent then
and they still are today." Peter Wight also
talked about some of the changes that had
taken place since he first started back in
1953. "Compared to the way things were
“It was tremendous to have a gentle-
man of the calibre of the great Sir
Garfield Sobers to come and join us
in our camp as we get ready for the
Digicel Series. The Head Coach ex-
tended the invitation and Sir Gar-
fieldhappily agreed to come and
share some of his vast knowledge
with our team,” said Richardson.
“His contribution really helped and
the players were all happy to listen
to him and absorb what he had to
say. We have some of the game’s
greatest cricketers of all time here in
the Caribbean and it is always great
to have them sharing their
knowledge with our present genera-
tion.”
Sir Garfield, 74, was a left-handed
allrounder, who represented the
West Indies from 1954 to 1974. He
played 93 Test matches and made
8,032runs and took 235 wickets. He
topscore was a then world record
365 notout.
The Digicel Series bowls off at the
Beausejour Stadium in St Lucia on
Thursday, April 21 with the Digicel
T20 International.
Squad for Digicel T20 Internation-
al: Darren Sammy (Captain),
Christopher Barnwell, Devendra
Bishoo, Darren Bravo, Andre
Fletcher, Danza Hyatt, Ashley
Nurse, Ravi Rampaul, Kemar
Roach, Andre Russell, Marlon Sam-
when I first arrived here back in the 1950's
I can't recognize the place it, the changes
are unbelievable. In fact it's 15 years since
I last umpired here and I don't recognize it
even from then, but it is absolutely marvel-
ous what has happened.
Despite all of the changes the County
Ground has still got that same atmos-
phere." "Its been wonderful to be back here
and I have been amazed by the number of
former players including Roy Smith,
Mervyn Kitchen and Roy Kerslake. A lot of
other people have recognized me and come
up to say hello." "I have just got so many
fond memories of the place. I remember
when I first started that they had the dog
track surrounding the ground here and
then there was Cecil Buttle the grounds-
man who used to look after us." He contin-
ued: "When I played we changed over in
the Old Pavilion where there wasn't any
heat so we were always trying to keep
warm and there were splinters in the floor-
boards." "We had to travel by train to away
matches and sometimes you wouldn't ar-
rive in a place until 2 or 3 o'clock in the
morning and then have to go out and field
all day."
During his time on the staff Peter Wight
lived in Taunton but after he left he moved
up to Bath where he opened an indoor
cricket school. In addition the former Som-
erset batsman also had 29 years on the
first class umpires list before he retired in
1995.
uels, Krishmar Santokie, Lendl Sim-
mons Squad for 1st and 2nd Digicel
ODIs: Darren Sammy (Captain),
Dwayne Bravo (Vice Captain), Deven-
dra Bishoo, Darren Bravo, Kirk Ed-
wards, Anthony Martin, Ravi Ram-
paul, Kemar Roach, Andre Russell,
MarlonSamuels, Lendl Simmons,
Devon Smith, Devon Thomas
Digicel Series Schedule April 18: Pa-
kistan v Vice Chancellor’s XI (50
over) – Beausejour Cricket Ground
April 21: Digicel Twenty20 –
Beausejour Cricket Ground
Digicel ODI Series
April 23: First Digicel ODI –
Beausejour Cricket Ground
April 25: Second Digicel ODI –
Beausejour Cricket Ground
April 28: Third Digicel ODI – Ken-
sington Oval
May 2: Fourth Digicel ODI – Kensing-
ton Oval
May 5: Fifth Digicel ODI – Guyana
National Stadium
May 8-9: Two-day practice match –
Bourda Cricket Ground
Digicel Tests
May 12-16: First Digicel Test – Guy-
ana National Stadium
May 20-24: Second Digicel Test –
Warner Park
11
 SPORTS WORLD
History of Cricket in Central Florida
by Philip Simon

"Orange
County
Cricket
Club, One
of Central
Floridas'
Premier
Teams of
the 90's"

O
ne has to go back to the late growth of the expatriate community in come a keen part of the schedule. The
1970’s to 1980 to capture the Central Florida and the influx of quality most exciting of completions is the Boom
early days of Cricket in Cen- players, the likes of former Guyana & Boom T20 Tournament, which is spon-
tral Florida. Those days saw West Indies test player Faoud Bacchus. sored by Boom Boom Equipment Compa-
games played on a regular but friendly (also national USA coach). ny of Pakistan, for Three Thousand Dol-
basis between teams from Tampa, Orlan- lars ($3000.00) in prize money. This
National players from various countries
do, Kissimmee and Valdosta, Georgia. competition matches country vs. country,
like Pakistan, India, UAE, and the Car-
with teams representing Pakistan, India,
Then came 1983 and, through the dedica- ibbean also elevated the level of play, to
USA, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Bar-
tion and commitment of a few, the Cen- the degree that a number of these play-
bados, Jamaica, Antigua & Barbuda,
tral Florida Cricket League was formed. ers have gone on to represent the USA
Combined Islands and Rest of the World.
Gilbert Johnson was the first President National Teams both at the senior and
Last years’ winner was Guyana, who
and his executive body consisted of Fred youth levels.
took home the coveted prize.
Whitmore VP, Anthony Earl, Treasurer, Many of the early pioneers have since
Toney Patel, Statistician and Rudolph gone on, Rudolph Watson of Tampa, With an aging population of players, the
Watson, Secretary. CFCA is working towards establishing a
Colin Hinds, Basil Solomon, Joe Frank
vibrant Masters team with the intent of
The first season of the league began in and Champagne of Orlando, and to the
engaging other Masters teams around
March 1984, with teams from Tampa, many that remain, Eric Blye, Fred
the country and overseas. Keeping crick-
Winter Haven, Orlando and Kissimmee Whitmore, Jack Findlay, Patrick Po-
et alive and imparting the knowledge of
competing. Orlando was the first Central larchy, Barney Jones, to mention a few,
the game to the younger generation is
Florida league champs, a feat they have we owe a sense of gratitude for their
vital to the longevity and development of
repeated many times since. Relation- commitment and dedication to keeping
the game in North America.
ships were established between the Cen- the game of cricket alive and well in Cen-
tral and South Florida Leagues and the tral Florida. The Central Florida Cricket Team made
first game between the two leagues was Today the league is now renamed the significant progress, winning the 2010
played in Tampa, August of 1984. Rain Central Florida Cricket Association Inc. Regional Championship held in Miami
interrupted play causing the game to be (CFCA) and has been a long-standing full Florida. Additionally, Central Florida
abandoned as a draw. This tournament member of the United States of America Cricket Association has been selected to
is still played annually, with each league Cricket Association (USACA) since 1986. host the first ever National Under-17
alternating as host. Tournament, taking place in Orlando
The mission of the CFCA is to continue
during the Memorial weekend, and the
Elections were held in November 1984 promoting the game of cricket from the
South East Regional Cricket Tourna-
and Thakor Patel was elected President, grassroots level, with the introduction of
ment, to be held in July 2011 at venues
a position he would hold for two years. a cricket academy and through the school
in Orlando and Palm Bay.
New teams came into the league and by system, thus becoming one of the prem-
the start of the 1986 season membership ier leagues in the country. Central Florida Cricket Association wel-
had grown from four (4) to twelve (12) comes the support of its members, spon-
Until recently seventeen (17) member
teams, representing Tampa, St Peters- sors, city and county officials, schools,
teams made up the present association
burg, Largo, Plant City, Winter Haven, colleges and well wishers to enable the
with teams from Tampa in the West to
Orlando, Kissimmee, Palm Bay and Val- association to foster the growth of cricket
Palm Bay and Daytona Beach in the
dosta, Georgia. Additionally, the stand- and secure appropriate playing facilities
East. Regular season games are of 45-
ard of cricket grew as a result of the in the Central Florida area.
over duration and T20 format has be-
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 12
Entertainment

Indian Variety Show a Hit

T
he Indian Variety Show was
held on April 2, 2011 at the
Orlando Garden Club and
was a cultural family show
hosted by Powerline HD Productions,
a branch of Powerline Sounds HD. It
featured Indian Dancers in colorful
costumes dancing classical Indian,
bollywood pop, chutney & more! The
dancers for the evening included:
The Sensational Aklima, Diya Interna-
tional School of Indian Performing
Arts dancers, The Exquisite Reshma
Shamnarine, Avani’s Dance Academy
dancers, & Melissa Haniff. There
were also performances by Awaaz-E-
Orlando, Geetanjali Band, Dave Lall,
and Trinlando Tassa Group. Through-
out the night raffles were drawn and
four lucky winners won door prizes
which were Gas Cards sponsored by
The Law offices of Gail Seeram. The
Vibes were nice inside the Orlando
Garden Club and there was even
West Indian Style Indian Food on
Sale by West Indian Catering and Mr.
Ricky Singh of Karma Imaging spon-
sored photography services. It was
an entertaining evening showcasing
local Indian talent through a variety
of singers, dancers, & tassa. Power-
line HD Productions says “Thank you
to everyone who expressed their
appreciation & showed their support
for this cultural show.” Mark your
calendar for their next event The
“Hangover Fete” at Timehri’s Ban-
quet Hall aka The Venue on May
14th.

Diya International Academy of Indian Performing Arts Dancers

THE CENTRAL FLORIDA PHARMACY Time: 7.30 pm

COUNCIL INVITES YOU TO THE
15TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN
MENS’S HEALTH SUMMIT
The Orange County Convention Center
West Concourse
9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL
Date: Saturday, April 23, 2011
Time: 8 am – 2 pm
Admission: Free
THE LEGENDS EASTER FETE
MIRAMAR REGIONAL PARK
16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL
Date: April 24, 2011
Time: 2 pm – 10 pm
Admission: Presold $25.00/VIP $50.00
More after 4/1/11
Call: 305-623-5078 for Booth & Info.
CARIBBEAN INVASION
“The Venue” Timehri Banquet Hall
7371 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL
Admission: $10.00 Advance/More at
Door Kids Under 10 – Free
Call: 352-217-6265/646-236-7978
THE CARIBBEAN AND FLORIDIAN ASSOCI-
ATION BUS RIDE
Destination: Ft. Desoto Park, Tierra
Verde, FL
Date: Saturday, May 21, 2011
For Departure Locations & Times Call:
Urla King @407-756-2826
Eunice Roberts@ 407-353-2243/Victor
Baker @407-484-5692
Adults: $25.00/Children under 12 $20.00
The Shree Marie Ammaa Devi Temple
512 Hudson St, Orlando
Annual Kalimai Puja
May 20th—5;00PM
Opening of Marie Amman’s Eyes followed
by Maha Laxmi and Hanuman Jandi
May 22nd—10:00AM

Date: Friday, May 20th, 2011

One Day Kali Puja
Call: 407-293-7352/407-692-1389
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
"Success is not a place
at which one arrives
but rather the spirit
with which one under-
takes and continues
the journey"

Florida’s Caribbean Sun 13


ANTIGUA and BARBUDA
Motto: Each Endeavoring All Achieving
History: Christopher Columbus landed on the island
of Antigua in the year 1493. He named the
island after the church of Santa Maria de la
Antigua in Seville, Spain. In 1632 it was col-
onized by the English and remained British
except for a brief occupation in 1667 by the
French until becoming an “Associated State
in 1967. On November 1, 1981 the islands of
Antigua and Barbuda attained full independ-
ence.
Economic Summary: The main national income earner is Tourism.
Antigua is noted for its many beautiful
beaches and is nicknamed “Land of 365
Beaches” due to the many beaches sur-
rounding the land. This may be responsible
for the attraction of both cargo and cruise
ship traffic. National economic develop-
ment is mainly due to Agriculture, fishing
and a growing manufacturing sector.
Capital: St. John’s
Caribbean Horoscopes April 2011
Aries (21 March - 19 April) On the plus side, you will have some of
the sweetest aspects possible - some of the best you've seen in a decade -
but on the minus side, a few challenging ones will show up, too. The good,
the bad, the brave, and the ugly aspects will come tumbling down, at
times, all at once.
Taurus (20 April - 20th May) Your time in the Sun is coming, dear
Taurus. You are on the verge of so much goodness, but it's still two
months away. For this reason, you must spend April finishing up loose
ends. You will need to be free and clear to be able to do so in your profes-
sional life and also your personal, private life.
Gemini (21 May -21 June) ."When in doubt, do nothing."
Things cannot be settled to your satisfaction anyway, so take
your sweet time to sort out options and do your research. New
friendships should be especially exciting.
What an important career devel-
Cancer (22 June - 22 August)
opment you have in store! It's a wow of a month. You are all
set to hear amazing professional news! You've earned this op-
portunity and whatever you will be discussing seems to fit you
like a glove.
Leo (23 August - 22 August )April should be a happy month for you!
You are about to enjoy rare favor. This won't likely be "any old month"
but will bring in new and special elements. May is shaping up as quite ex-
traordinary for you, too! The point is, foreign people and places will take
on a huge emphasis this month for you

Official Language: English. Many locals speak Antiguan Creole

Population: 85,632 (July 2009) Virgo (23 August - 22 September) Money management will consume
you in April,." This covers money you receive, say, as a bank loan or as an
Area: 442km2; 170 mi2 infusion of venture capital, or in terms of a scholarship, financial aid, bo-
Airports: VC Bird International (Antigua) nus, commission, or divorce settlement.
Codrington (Barbuda)
Libra (23 September - 22 October) As a Libra, you are usually hap-
Status Independent, November 1, 1981 piest when working in a collaborative mode, and many Libras like to be
Date of CARICOM married or in an established partnership. Snags will arise, in short, this is
not the time to seal deals, sign papers, and shake hands. You have work to
Membership: July 4, 1974 do first.
Highest National Award: Order of the Nation
Favourite Dish: Antigua Pepperpot Scorpio (23 October - 21 November )This month your work and
health will receive top billing. As a Scorpio, you tend to get a little ob-

RECIPIES!! RECIPIES!! RECIPIES !! sessed about everything you do, but I always see that proclivity of yours
as a big plus. That's surely one of your secrets for success!

Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) .If you have been

ANTIGUA PEPPERPOT longing for a richer, emotional life, or if you found love and want more
attention from your partner, this month you should have your wish. This
Ingredients: would be an ideal month to take a vacation, long or short, for you will be
in the mood to relax and let love find you!
1 lb Salt Beef or 1 lb Fresh 2 Tomatoes (sliced)
Meat 1 cup Pumpkin (diced) Capricorn (22 December - 16 January) No matter what you
1 lb Salt Pork 1 cup squash (diced) thought you might be doing in April, the message is clear: Your home (or
Pig’s feet (cut in pieces) Bunch of Chive and thyme other property) or perhaps a certain family member, such as a parent, will
become the center of thinking. Your time has come!
2 tsps Oil (pounded)
4 Boulanger (diced) 2 onions (chopped)
Aquarius (20 January - 18 February) You will love this month! Your
4 Ochroes (diced) 2 tsps Ketchup mind will be abuzz with many new ideas, and some will be hailed by high-
4 Eddo Leaves 2 tsps Margarine er-ups as downright brilliant. You will be eager to get started, and who
1 lb Spinach (chopped) Salt and Pepper to taste could blame you? The concepts you are coming up with now will be origi-
nal and accurately reflect your individuality.
Method:
Cook the meats. Add the vegetables except the green peas.
Add the seasoning. Pisces (19 February - 20 March) This will be an exciting, usual
Cook the peas in a small amount of salt water month that will put a very strong emphasis on money. As a Pisces, you
Remove the vegetables are by nature not materialistic, and so, at times this month, you might
find the emphasis on your financial life a bit annoying. You are a savvy
Chop well and return to the fire. negotiator, a practical and trustworthy manager, and an astute risk
When cooked serve hot with fungee. taker.
Dumplings can be added to this mixture, sometimes.
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 14
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 15
Florida’s Caribbean Sun 16