Guyana’s Prime Minister Samuel Hinds wants to see more products from that country exported to Florida and has challenged the Caribbean American business community to explore the range of agricultural produce and processed foods available for import from the South American republic which is a member of the Caribbean
Community (CARICOM). While admitting that there were certain phytosanitary issues affecting the import into Florida of some prod-ucts, the prime minister said his government “is in discussions with the relevant US agencies about these issues and we would like the business community in Florida to join with us in helping to have these issues resolved,” the prime minister said.
The prime minister, a Canadian trained chemical engineer, was in Florida recently for a series of meetings and to witness the launch of the Space Shuttle which was postponed. He took the opportunity to meet with the Guyanese American communi-ties in …….…Cont’ d on pg. 3
Guyana’s PM touts increased
exports to Florida Meets with Guyanese communities in Orlando, Miami
CaribWorldNews- A Caribbean national born in Trinidad and Tobago is the new lieutenant governor of the state of Florida.
Port-Of-Spain, Trinidad-born, Jennifer Carroll, a former member of the Florida House of Representatives from the 3th district, was chosen as Republican Gov-ernor Elect Rick Scott`s running mate several months ago, and after one of the closest gubernatorial races in state history, they were declared winners Wednesday after Democrat Alex Sink conceded.
Scott won one of the closest gubernatorial races in state history, with the latest tallies showing him ahead by just 68,000 votes out of 5.3 million cast. The win makes Carroll the first African-American lieutenant governor and the first elect-ed female lieutenant governor in Florida`s history.
Carroll is a retired Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy who served as the District 13 Representative in the House of Representatives of the State of Florida . She was first elected to the Florida House in a special election in April 2003. She is also the mother of the Miami Dolphins defensive lineback-er, Nolan Carroll.
Carroll was born in Port of Spain on the island of Trin-idad . She served in the U.S. Navy as an aviation maintenance officer for twenty years, from 1979 to 1999. In 1981, she received an Associate of Arts de-gree from Leeward Community College . She followed this in 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of New Mexico . She moved to Florida in 1986. She then received her Master of Busi-ness Administration degree from St. Leo University in 1991. She is a member of the Clay County Republican Ex-ecutive Committee. She made two unsuccessful bids for the United States House of Representatives in 2000 and in 2002. She has been elected successively to the Florida House since winning a special election in April 2003, when she became the first black female Republican ever elected to the Florida Legislature. She is married to Nolan Carroll and has three children. Her son, Nolan played college football for University of Maryland and was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Sarwan omitted from squad to tour Sri Lanka
PM Hinds enjoys a fresh water coconut flanked by
guests at reception at Timehri Banquet Hall
(Mark Bannister photo)
PM Hinds (right) looks at a bag of Guyana made chowmein at Caribbean
Supercenter supermarket. From left are Naraine Moonesar, proprietor Carib-
bean Supercenter and former diplomat Wesley Kirton.
During his visit to Orlando Prime Minister Hinds addressed a town hall meeting and reception at the Timehri Banquet Hall, was guest of honor at a dinner hosted by the Guyanese owned Circa restaurant in Winter Park, toured the Guyanese owned supermarket Caribbean Supercenter on West Colonial Drive and visited the Chelonian Insti-tute in Oviedo which conducts research and tagging of sea turtles in Guyana.
Hinds told the gathering of Guyanese at the town hall meeting that significant opportunities exist for the import of non-traditional Guya-nese produce and products noting that his government had put in place incentives and improved infrastructure including the bridge across the Berbice River and cold storage facilities at the main airport which “are helping to ensure increased production and reliable and timely transport of products.” He said both the Guyana Government and the private sector at home would be open and eager to discuss with Florida business persons strategies for increasing trade between the two locations.
During his visit to Caribbean Supercenter supermarket the prime minister saw the range of Guyanese products on sale but was of the view that the range could be expanded significantly. However, owner of the establishment, Naraine Moonesar, explained that there were constraints to importing many products from Guyana which was not the case with imports from Trinidad and Jamaica.
The prime minister in turn argued that much of the products and produce from Guyana were not the same as those exported from Trinidad and Jamaica and were subject to “different treatment” by the various US agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration. He added that many of the products qualified for, and were in fact being exported to New York but that due to Florida’s climate exports directly to this State were treated differently.
The prime minister’s program during his visit to Central Florida was arranged by Florida’s Caribbean Sun newspaper and among those sponsoring the program of events were Timehri Restaurant and Ban-quet Hall, Rosen Hotels, Circa Restaurant, the Law Offices of Gail See-ram, Caribbean Supercenter, Naraine’s Bakery, Laparkan Shipping, the Guyanese American Cultural Association of Central Florida (GACACF), Mr. & Mrs. Errol Baines, DJ Gary Osman, The Highland Agency and Luxury Rides.
Guyana’s PM ...cont’d from page 1
A
P resident Obama’s new immigra-tion enforcement strategy has led to a record number of crimi-
nal aliens being deported last year, but removals of other illegal immigrants fell to the lowest rate since 2007, before the Bush administration began a crackdown.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforce-ment deported 392,862 aliens in fiscal year 2010, slightly less than a 1 percent increase over 2009 but short of the agency’s goal to remove 400,000 this year.
Still, the administration said its new fo-cus on immigrants with criminal records is paying off, with about half of those deported in 2010 being convicted crimi-nals. In 2009, when 389,834 immigrants were deported, only about one-third of them had criminal records.
“This administration takes very, very
seriously the responsibility to secure the borders and enforce immigration laws,” Homeland Security Secretary Janet Na-politano said in announcing the num-bers recently. The fiscal year ended Sept. 30.
The numbers come in the middle of a heated national debate on immigration. Republicans and Democrats alike have called on the administration to pursue more vigorous enforcement, both on the border and in the interior, but Ms. Napolitano said federal officials have to use their limited resources to try to take the biggest public safety threats off the streets, which means focusing on aliens with serious criminal records.
She and Mr. Obama have tried to cut a middle ground between those who fa-vor a crackdown and the immigrant rights groups who want to see fewer deportations.
Deportations of criminal aliens up
Champagne Toast :PM Hinds ( r ) receives a champagne welcome to the
Chelonian Research Institute by Dr. & Mrs. Peter Pritchard ( center)
B arbadians from around the United States were among thousands of individuals, organizations, inter-
national agencies and governments pay-ing tribute to the late Prime Minister of Barbados, David Thompson, who died of pancreatic cancer last month.
Several Barbadians living in the United States, including Florida were among those who travelled home to attend fu-neral services for the late prime minister. Among them was the Barbados-born in-ternational recording star, Rihanna. Ja-maican reggae star, Luciano along with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) heads of government, diplomats and represent-atives of various regional and internation-al organizations joined in an emotional farewell to Thompson, the third Barbadi-an prime minister to die in office since political independence in 1966.
“The entire Caribbean has been left poor-er,” Jamaica’s Prime Minister Bruce Gold-ing said of Thompson, who entered Par-liament at the age of 25, and had shown courage in the way in which he faced his
own death. At one point Golding said “he (Thompson) was no ordinary man”.
Golding said that his late colleague had brought to the regional integration move-ment “a sharp and refreshing look at Car-ibbean issues” and was also a “realist and a pragmatist”.
“He was passionately a Caribbean man, all of us Caribbean leaders will miss his wise counsel,” Golding said during the near two and a half hour ecumenical ser-vice held at the famed Kensington Oval, on the outskirts of the capital.
A book of condolence was opened at the Barbados Consulate in Miami and several Caribbean organizations, business and civic leaders signed the book as well as sent messages to the government of Bar-bados.
Hundreds of Barbadians lined the streets to have a glimpse of the casket draped in the Barbados flag drawn on a military carriage and carrying the body of the 11th regional leader to die in office.
Trinidad PM for talks in Washington Will also receive woman-of-the-year award
T rinidad and Tobago’s Prime Min-
ister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is
to hold a high-level meeting
with United States Secretary of State
Hillary Clinton at the US State Depart-
ment on Wednesday, November 10. The
two are expected to discuss a range of
issues of mutual interest including major
economic, social, security and political
matters.
While in the US, Persad-Bissessar will
deliver a special lecture at Harvard Uni-
versity and also receive the 2010 Wom-
en of the Year award from the US -based
Glamour magazine.
The discussions with Clinton are also
expected to center on issues directly
dealing with US/Trinidad and Tobago/
Caricom relations, with a primary focus
on the state of the global and regional
economies and the impact of the global
financial crisis on developing countries,
trade relations, energy industry, nation-
al and regional diversification efforts,
the narco-trade, border protection and
other security issues.
The release said Persad-Bissessar will
also share with Clinton the various new
initiatives taken by her People’s Partner-
ship Government in its five months in
office thus far to promote economic and
social growth and development for, not
only Trinidad and Tobago, but the entire
Caricom region, such as the Children’s
Life Fund and the Helping Hand projects.
The Prime Minister will also present an
official gift to Clinton and extend an
official invitation for her to visit Trini-
dad and Tobago.
While in Washington, Persad-Bissessar is
also scheduled to deliver an address to
the Permanent Council of the Organiza-
tion of American States on November 10
at the OAS Headquarters.
T he stage is set for Central Florida’s annual duck curry competition to be held on Saturday, November 13
at Thunder Field in Orlando, near the Citrus Bowl. Organizers of the event say that this year’s “will be bigger and better” with a variety of entertainment.
The winner will get a $1000 prize, second place $500 and third place $300. The peo-ple’s choice winner will get $300.
There will be television and other media coverage of this event. The action starts at 12 noon.
Duck Curry Competition November 13
FORT LAUDERDALE - The beautiful Markham Park in Sunrise, Florida will become the Mecca of Jamaican culture for the highly anticipated 9th Annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival slated for Sunday, November 14. The one-day, family-friendly event, which attracts over some 18,000 patrons, will offer an all- encompassing cultural experience with presentations that will take Jamaicans back home and give others a chance to feast, not only on succulent jerk foods, but on the offerings of authentic traditions. Plus, live sporting action will keep sports fans thor-oughly entertained. The Western Union and Digicel Cultural stages will dish out a generous helping of genu-ine Jamaican culture with presentations and performances that showcase the island's rich heritage, along with riveting tributes to Jamaican cultural icon and scholar, the late Professor Rex Nettleford.(SFLCN).
Jerk Festival November 14
5 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
6 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
P resident Bill Clinton visited
Orlando recently to help
campaign
for Democrat
Kendrick Meeks.
A rally at the Uni-
versity of Central
Florida brought
out a crowd of
mainly students.
Dignitaries in-
cluding Mayor
Buddy Dyer
and Congress-
man Alan
Grayson were
also in attendance. Clinton gave a
speech that brought UCF students
to their feet. He spoke mainly about
the economy and urged people to
give President Obama a chance to
fix an economy that has been on a
downward slide for years. There
had also been rumors that Clin-
ton had asked Meeks to with-
draw from the senate race so
that the Republican candidate
would not win but both Clinton
and the Meeks campaign denied
this.
Republican Marco Rubio won
the Senate seat beating out
Florida Governor Charlie
Crist and Meeks.
Clinton has long been a
supporter of minority issues and has
spent time and money on the relief
effort in Haiti.
President Clinton In Orlando
denies asking Meeks to quit By Laverne McGee
Caribbean Sun’s Managing Editor
Laverne McGee with President
Clinton during his recent visit
16 Caribbean American elected officials in Florida Come January 2011, there will be 16 Caribbean American elected officials serving at the State and local levels in Florida. Heading the list is Lieutenant
Governor, Jennifer Carroll. Following is a list of the other Caribbean Americans holding elected office in Florida.
City of Miramar 2300 Civic Center Place Miramar, Florida 33025 (954) 602-3000 WWW.CI.MIRAMAR.FL.US Current Elected Caribbean American Official: Commissioner Winston F. Barnes City of Lauderdale Lakes 4300 NW 36th St. Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33319 (954)535-2730 WWW.LAUDERDALELAKES.ORG Current Elected Caribbean American Officials: Mayor Barrington Russell Sr.
City of Lauderhill 2000 City Hall Dr. Lauderhill, FL 33313 (954) 730-3000 WWW.LAUDERHILL-FL.GOV/ Current Elected Caribbean American Official: Vice-Mayor Dale V. C. Holness Town of Southwest Ranches 6589 SW 160th Avenue Southwest Ranches, FL 33331 (954) 434- 0008
WWW.SOUTHWESTRANCHES.ORG Current Elected Caribbean American Official: Council Member Aster Knight
Town of Pembroke Park 3150 SW 52nd Ave. Pemroke Park, FL 33023 954-966-4600 Fax 954-966-5186 Current Elected Caribbean American Official: Commissioner Ashira Mohammed
City of North Miami Beach
17011 NE 19th Ave.
North Miami Beach, FL 33162
(305) 948-2986
Fax (305) 787-6036
WWW.CI.NORTH-MIAMI-BEACH.FL.US
Current Elected Caribbean American Official:
Councilman Philippe Derose
Councilman John Patrick Julien
City of North Miami
776 NE 125th St.
North Miami, FL 33161
(305) 893-6511 WWW.NORTHMIAMIFL.GOV
Current Elected Caribbean American Officials:
Mayor Andre Pierre
Councilman Jacques Despinosse
Alix Desulme, City Clerk
Jean R. Marcellus, Councilman
Councilwoman Marie Steril
City of South Miami
6130 Sunset Dr.
South Miami, FL 33143-5093
(305) 668-2483
Fax (305)663-6348
Current Elected Caribbean American Official: Vice Mayor
Velma Palmer
Florida House of Representatives
210 House Office Building
402 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
General Inquiries: (850) 488-1157
Current Elected Caribbean American Official:
Rep. Yolly Roberson
Rep. Ronald A. Brisé
Rep. Hazelle P. Rogers
O range County's newly elected mayor Teresa Jacobs says she wants to work closely with the County's Caribbean American community and promises to meet with community leaders early in her term of office. She will be sworn-in on January 4, 2011.
Jacobs was among guests at a recent Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida net-working event at the Rosen Center hotel.
Jacobs represented District 1 on the Board of County Commissioners, which encompasses south-west Orange County from Winter Garden to Hunter's Creek. She was elected in 2000, re-elected in 2004, and stepped down in 2008 due to term limits. Jacobs was credited with taking on special interests, championing new ethics rules for Orange County elected officials, and successfully strengthening local laws to prevent school overcrowding. She was elected President of the Flori-da Association of Counties (2007).
On January 26, 2010, Jacobs announced that she plan to run for Mayor of Orange County. She was opposed by Bill Segal, Linda Stewart, and Matthew Falconer. On August 24, 2010, Linda Stewart (19%) and Matthew Falconer (15%) were eliminated in the primary election. Teresa Ja-cobs (42%) and Bill Segal (22%) both advanced to the general election in a run off. In the general election on November 2, 2010, Teresa Jacobs resoundingly defeated Bill Segal, 68% - 32%.
New Mayor pledges to work with Caribbean community
Caribbean Sun’s Melinda Gordon presenting a copy of the
Reginald McGill from Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer’s Office
Commander Russ Permaul Orange County Sheriff with the PM
Prime Minister with Sponsors at the Town Hall Meeting
Timerhi Banquet Hall Owner, Lake Narain with PM
PM greets
Saturday
morning
shoppers at
Caribbean
Supercenter
11 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
When many people think of thanksgiving, the first thoughts that come into their head is football, shopping and a TON of FOOD! We do all of these things on thanks-giving, but this holiday is more than just eating or having fun, it’s a time to give thanks for the things you already have. Thanksgiving is a day we celebrate and give thanks. Nobody knows exactly when thanksgiving began, but his-torians believe that it started in Plymouth Plantation Mas-sachusetts in the year 1621.
On thanksgiving when you are eating think about all the nice things you own. But even more important is giving thanks for your parents, friends, and family. This year in the United States Thanksgiving is on Thursday November 25, 2010. The date always changes every year, it is cele-brated every 4th Thursday in the month of November. In Canada Thanksgiving already passed, it was Monday Octo-ber 11, 2010 (the date also changes for Canada, it is every 2nd Monday in October).
On thanksgiving it is traditional to celebrate by cooking lots of different food! The most common is turkey, stuffing, corn, gravy, rolls, and many different kinds of pie!
Every year in New York since 1924 they hold the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade! This is going to be the 86th year it has been held! It starts at 9am Eastern Time and goes until 12pm Eastern Time. If you can’t make it to the Macy’s Day Parade in New York you can go to the smaller version at Universal Studios Florida, or you can stay at home and watch it on NBC. The parade is made up of a series of many different floats with huge balloons attached to them. Sing-ers, actors, bands and dancers are invited to either per-form or stand and sing on the floats! They have balloons as old as Mickey Mouse and as new as Spider Man! At the end of the parade there is a Santa Claus in a sled that marks the start of the Christmas Season!
Black Friday is always the 1st Friday after thanksgiving. This day means it’s the beginning of the Christmas shop-ping season. It started back in 1956. On this day many things go on sale and lots of people rush to malls and stores buying everything they can because there are such good deals on them! This is not an official holiday but many people are given the day off work and school. The term “Black Friday” originated in Philadelphia and original-ly meant that the day after thanksgiving had lots of traffic. Now it means the day after thanksgiving is the start of the Christmas season and shopping! I would like to wish every-one a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday!
NOVEMBER November 12 th
Business Award Dinner & Dance
Greater Caribbean American Chamber of Com-
merce
Hollywood Rotary Club
2349 Taylor St.
Hollywood
7pm-1am
Admission: $50
Guest Speaker:
US Congressman Alcee Hastings
Info Albert, 954-294-1130
November 12 th
Community Forum
Consulate General of Jamaica in collaboration
with the Jamaican Diaspora Southern United States
Inverrary Country Club
3840 Inverrary Blvd., Lauderhill
7pm-9pm
Guest Speaker:
Jamaica's Senator the Hon. Marlene Malahoo -
Forte Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and Foreign Trade with responsibility for Diaspora
Affairs
Info: Jamaican Consulate General office
305-374-8431 ext. 223
November 13th
CURRY DUCK CURRY COMPETITION
THUNDER FIELD 1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL TIME: 12 PM-10.30 PM Info: VANI @954-759-1983/JOHN @ 954-756-5736 November 13th CURRY DUCK CURRY AFTER PARTY SPRING GARDEN RESTAURANT 1575 Maguire Road Ocoee, FL November 14 th
9th Annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival
Jamaican Jerk Festival USA, Inc
Markham Park
16001 W. State Rd, Sunrise, FL
10am-10pm
Publix Jerk Cook-Off and Celebrity Quick Fire Competi-
tion
Live entertainment by: Legendary John Holt
Byron Lee's Dragonaires
For more information:
Visit www.jerkfestival.com
November 17th
Jamaica vs. Costa Rica
International Friendly Soccer Match
Lockhart Stadium
1350 NW 55 Street
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
8pm
Tickets start at $25
Reggae Boyz with all their international stars vs.
Costa Rica with the debut of new head Coach, Ricardo
Lavolpe
For tickets call: 877 --877-7677
November 20th
Bayside Rocks Festival
Bayfront Park
301 North Biscayne Boulevard, Miami
3pm-12M
Performing Live:
Bunny Wailer, Steel Pulse, Toots & The Maytals,
Info: 305-763-4509
November 20th The Coalition for the Barbados Association of Cen-tral Florida 44th Independence Gala Rosen Centre Hotel 9840 International Drive Orlando, FL Admission: $ 65.00 Info: 321-663-9654 November 21st Caribbean Carnival Fiesta 11:00 AM – 6:00PM Okeeheelee Park 7515 Forest Hill Blvd West Palm Beach, FL Info: Kamal Abdool 561-376-7251 November 26th Oldies Dance “The Venue” Timehri Banquet Hall 7365 W Colonial Dr., Orlando 8:00—? Admission $5.00 - Food & Drinks will be sold DJ Gary Osman & Others November 27th POST THANKSGIVING DANCE PEGASUS BANQUET HALL 6394 Silver Star Road, Orlando, FL Time 8 pm - ? Admission $10.00 - Cash Bar Live Band & DJ - Sammy 407-234-0365
November 27, 28 December 4,5 FESTIVAL OF CRICKET T20 NIGHT TOURNAMENT Local talent from India, Pakistan, Caribbean, and more McCRACKEN FIELD NEXT TO THE CITRUS BOWL FREE ADMISSION Contact: 407-312-9006/321-945-8488
Proceeds to benefit KLF’s work with at -risk youth in Or-
lando
925-699-9754
December 11th Chutney on Fire Dance Party Timehri Banquet Hall 7371 W Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL Doors open @ 8:00 PM Info: 718-290-0921 Princess Anisa , Leon Coldero Live
December 11th FSCA 10th Anniversary Presentation Mela Room 9677 S Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, FL 7:00PM – 1:00AM (Dinner included) Admission: $ 10.00 Contact Tony (407) 758-0424 December 11th The Jamaican American Cultural Association of Cen-tral Florida, Inc. Annual Christmas Dance International Palms Resort & Conference Center
“If you eat every day, you must move everyday” Unknown
Does 5 minutes sound like a long time? Most people would say no. Did you know that exercising for as little as 5 minutes out-doors can improve both mood and self esteem? These results were shown in a recent study conducted by the University of Essex in England. 1252 people were followed, and regardless of gender, age, or a person’s health, the psychological boost of outside activi-ty was felt. Lucky for us here in Florida, the study further showed the biggest increase in mood and self esteem when the outside activity was conducted near water.
There have been many research studies conducted in the last few years on activity and its psychological and physical affect on the mind and body. Most people are aware that the number one cause of death in America is heart disease. They can list to you every medication they are on, and can even explain the television advertisement for them. Here at West Orange Nephrology, our team knows how powerful food and activity can be in reversing disease.
I guess if you’re still reading this, you’re asking yourself “How do I get started, or how do I stay motivated?” As a dietitian, I always recommend meal plans, so naturally I recommend writing activity plans as well. Look at the week with intention. How many times do you want to work out? Aim for at least three times a week if you’re just starting out. Then pick an activity; walk, bike, swim, basketball. Make sure you plan the days of the week, as well as how many minutes you will be doing that activity. As you success-fully accomplish each workout, make a small check mark or smiley face next to the goal. Each week dedicate a few minutes to plan your activity goals. As the weeks get easier, continue to challenge yourself. - Janice Bader, RD, LD/N
13 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
Sports Roundup Nash into positions of responsibility is
indicative of the WICB's desire to achieve
stability in leadership from players whose
availability isn't in question. Ernest
Hilaire, the board's CEO, said: "Chris
Gayle, the former captain, led the West
Indies during a challenging period and the
board thanks him for stepping up then but
it is now time to past the mantle on as the
West Indies rebuilds."
The squad picked for the Sri Lanka series
features several players who didn't play
against South Africa at home earlier in the
year, West Indies' most recent Test as-
signment. Adrian Barath, the opener who
burst onto the international scene with a
century on debut against Australia in Bris-
bane last year, returns after hurting his
knee in April.
Carlton Baugh, who has not played a Test
since 2004, will vie with Devon Thomas for
the role behind the stumps, while there
was also a maiden call-up for the Jamaica
all rounder Andre Russell. The opener
Devon Smith, who played his most recent
Test in May 2009, is also back after aver-
aging 61.50 while leading West Indies A in
the first-class fixtures in England this year.
West Indies squad: Darren Sammy (capt),
Brendan Nash (vice-captain), Chris Gayle,
Adrian Barath, Carlton Baugh (wk), Sulie-
man Benn, Darren Bravo, Dwayne Bravo,
Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Nelon Pascal,
Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Shane Shil-
lingford, Devon Smith, Devon Thomas
(wk).
Gayle replaced ..Sammy is new WI captain
No team plays with the goal of being called second or third best. They play to be called Champions. But, that does not exclude the non-champions from being ranked. Nor does it stop some governing body or League Office/Association from crowning a second or third place team. With the 2010 MLB World Series now in full swing, there will soon be a new World Champion and a disappointed second place team. Those ranks are understood, but to speak for those who are curious, which team would take that imaginary third step on the MLB podium? Should a team be officially deemed as third overall in the League in the same sense that the loser of the World Series is deemed second? Is this a wild, taboo idea that should not be considered because it would mean a change to a sport that traditionally does not accept change with open arms? The FIFA World Cup plays a match to de-cide a third-place overall team. The Olympic Committee does the same for their Games that involve a bracket of com-peting teams. Typically, such a matchup takes place be-tween the two teams that were most re-cently eliminated in the round prior to the Final Championship Game. Bottom of Form
In the case of Major League Baseball, those teams qualifying and competing for third place would be the teams eliminated from the American and National League Championship Series. The question I pose here regarding my proposition of a third-place game isn't whether this can be done, because of course it can be done. It wouldn't be any more difficult to organize and broadcast than a one-game playoff similar to a Game 163; a situation that nearly came to frui-tion this year and one that was necessary the previous two years. So a one-game playoff for overall third place in the League between the ALCS and NLCS runners-up is feasible. The question I pose now is should it be done? The game of professional baseball is slowly changing to the dismay of some and the joy of others. So, will a game that leans on its history and tradition be open minded to such a change during a period when every-one is complaining that it should change? In the eyes of many, there is nothing terri-bly groundbreaking or innovative about this concept. But in the eyes of baseball traditionalists, it is revolutionary bordering on blasphemy. I am not a tradition-
alist, nor am I looking to change the game for the sake of change. However, I am open to change that in-creases intensity and viewership of the game, in this case, the playoff atmosphere and additional bragging rights for teams to take into the following season. Bottom of Form
A one-game playoff, in this case for third place, is essentially a Game 7. Numbers do not lie and numbers state elimination games, especially those involv-ing popular, sizable markets, will generate revenue. For those who question or doubt the value or magnitude of a third place or bronze playoff game, consider if such a game took place this year. Who wouldn't be interested in a one-game playoff between the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees. Two of baseball's biggest markets putting everything on the line for a chance at third. Of course, neither market would ever settle for third, but if there is something to be won, both teams and both fan-bases would want to win it. There is no doubt that such a match-up would draw signifi-cant interest and revenue. Think a match-up of this magnitude would be a one-time fluke occurrence? In 2009, such a game would have taken place between the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and the Los Angeles Dodgers. In 2008, the Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox would have faced off for third place. All of these teams have expansive fan ba-ses and more than capable markets to sup-port them, including two of the most sto-ried franchises in the MLB in the Red Sox and the Dodgers. The fact is, more often than not, the teams that make it to the League Championship Series have fan-bases and markets equipped and willing to accommodate a third place one-game playoff. If this idea were to come to fruition, or even be considered, I believe such a game would prove useful to be played hours prior to the Game 1 of the World Series. Such an intense playoff may catch viewers and keep them all the way through Game 1 of the World Series. In a world increasingly driven by ratings, revenues, and rivalries, the concept of a one-game playoff game between the teams eliminated in the American and Na-tional League Championship Series will help Major League Baseball earn higher ratings, increase revenue as a result of those ratings, and compete with the other professional sports leagues of North Amer-ica for consumer interest.
World Series 2010: 1-Game Playoff Could Im-prove Interest, Revenue By Douglas Churaman
Florida Cricket Conference (FCC) extends an invitation to cricket fans to its inaugural
event, FESTIVAL OF CRICKET to be held at McCracken field over four days, Saturday
November 27th, Sunday November 28th, Saturday December 4th, and Sunday Decem-
ber 5th.
This tournament carries an attractive guaranteed prize distribution package of over
$5,000. The first prize is $3,000 and the runner -up prize is $1,000. There will be cash
prizes for player of the tournament, most sixes and most wickets.
FCC will provide a platform for cricketers and cricket loving people to play, coach,
watch and learn cricket. FCC is a non -profit organization to promote cricket in Florida
especially Central Florida. FCC will provide a cricket body to bring awareness and in
future, will also provide coaching and facilities for future generations to play profes-
sional cricket under the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Spokesperson Prashant Patel says “We chose a FREE T20 tournament as an inaugural
cricket tournament to start off with. T20 cricket is becoming more and more popular
and entertaining.
“We are expecting over 1000 people each day. We guarantee you that, there be will
lots of fun for everyone with a variety of ethnic foods, and music.
Aries (21 March - 19 April) You will need to keep what you are thinking to yourself until you find out what is going on. That way you will not say the wrong thing. A smile goes a long way.
Taurus (20 April - 20th May) Perhaps it is time to seek the means you can improve your health. Professional secrecy can only lead to devastating circumstances. Start planning your holidays now so as to avoid difficulties in the second half of November.
Gemini (21 May -21 June) There is a lot going on. Don’t let money is-sues depress you. You need to remain energetic through this time. You will be rewarded for your hard work.
Cancer (22 June - 22 August) Try not to spend time with your col-leagues if you want to avoid problems later. You might want to attend a mu-sical show to lift your spirits.
Leo (23 August - 22 August ) As the holidays approach what better way to spend them than go shopping. However don’t let the credit card rule you or else you will spend the rest of the time with nothing to do but look at bills.
Virgo (23 August - 22 September) Make time for friends and family this holiday season. Spend time under the mistletoe you never know how lucky you can get.
Libra (23 September - 22 October) Feeling lucky, have someone else pay the bills this month. Take your time before making a commitment. Wait a day before taking the plunge.
Scorpio (23 October - 21 November This could not be a better time for you all around as everything is coming up roses. You just cannot fail at anything you attempt. Just make sure you are working on what will be good for you.
Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) . Be wary of friends who look to you for help as some may have ulterior motives. What is it they really want? What will be the real cost to you? You must ask yourself this question.
Capricorn (22 December - 16 January) With the holidays fast ap-proaching you need to start planning now. You might want to eat healthy from now though the Holiday season. You might want to take up conflict reso-lution.
Aquarius (20 January - 18 February) You need to look on the bright side of things to come. If you pay attention you just might see the opportunity in front of you. Do not be surprised to find out it was there all along.
Pisces (19 February - 20 March) Stop procrastinating and get jobs done as it will be better for you in the end. So decide to be serious about things while still taking time for fun. Sundays will be an unusually good day for you.
Horoscopes
2011 - G.A.I.L. (Giving Abundantly In Life) Academic Scholarship for
Guyanese-American Students – Given by Attorney Gail Seeram
Amount: $500.00
Description: This scholarship will be awarded to a student attending college who is pursuing legal or international studies
Eligibility: The student must meet the following requirements:
1. Be a former Guyanese national (born in Guyana) or a child of Guyanese parents or grandchild of Guyanese grandparents
2. Cumulative GPA of 3.0
3. Course of studies with the legal or international fields of study (including criminal justice, paralegal studies, pre-law, etc.)
2. Submit proof of Guyanese heritage (copy of birth certificate of qualifying relative)
3. Academic transcript
4. 500 word essay describing how your Guyanese heritage impacted your academic studies or career path
Deadline: January 7, 2011
The scholarship will be presented on Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 7:00pm at the 2011 Guyanese American Cultural Association of Central Florida Republic Ball at the Ballroom at Church Street in Orlando, Florida. The winner will receive a complemen-
The Indo Caribbean Cultural Center for the sixth consecu-tive year sponsored the Miss Diwali Florida Pageant. This elegant and glamorous affair was held on October 22nd 2010 at the posh Pegasus Banquet Hall & Conference Center on Silver Star Road. Eleven young women vied for the title of Miss Diwali Florida 2010. These young women were escorted on stage by eleven eligible bachelors from our local com-munity and for the first time in our history one of these young men was crowned Mr. Diwali 2010. The 22 young men and women that participated in this pageant qualified as con-testants based on their high academic achievement and presentations. The pageant was attended by hundreds of Florida residents who were treated to an exciting evening of music and dance and it was evident from the crowd partici-pation and involvement that a great time was had by all. Ac-companying music for the pag-eant was provided by the tal-ented and enjoyable sounds of Dhanraj and Band with musi-cal presentations of the Super-tone Band and Princess Anisa. Celebrity rapper Fatigue, exotic dancer Rose, Devyani Cultural Center and Diya International gave their best performances for the crowd.
The pageant was judged by five upstanding and prominent
members of our community, who were carefully selected to ensure that there was no con-flict of interest the in their se-lection of the winner and run-ner-ups. The scoring of the re-sults was overseen by Gail See-ram, prominent Orlando Immi-gration lawyer, who for that night was appointed Auditor General for the Pageant. For the first time ever in the Miss Diwali Florida Pageant’s history everyone agreed unanimously with the judges’ decision of this year’s winner of the Miss Diwali Crown. MISS VANDA SINGH who exhibited great poise and confidence and who was the crowd’s favorite won the coveted title of MISS DI-WALI FLORIDA 2010. The judg-es certainly had a difficult time in selecting the three finalists but in the end Miss Malini Bramdat and Miss Natalie Chetram were awarded the 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up titles respectively. Best Shal-war Award went to Miss Vanda Singh, Best sari award went to Miss Molita Sarwan. Mr Ray Hussain won the title of Mr. Diwali 2010 and after crowning of the King and Queen all par-ticipants took the stage by storm in the grand finale with OM SHANTI OM. Immediately after the pageant, all the attendees enjoyed the big after show party hosted by DJ Al and DJ Alex with Unlimited Sound
Vanda Singh wins Miss
Diwali 2010 Pageant
Contest-
ants in the
Miss Diwa-
li 2010
pageant
KOOL celebrates 60th Birthday at Circa Restaurant
Robert “Kool” Bell of the internationally famous R& B group Kool & the
Gand recently celebrated his 60th Birthday at the upscale Circa restaurant in
Winter Park. Several of Kool’s Caribbean American friends were among the
more than 200 guests which included celebrities from the entertainment
industry.
Brian Bacchus greets Kool an Sakinah Bell on their arrival at Circa Restaurant
(L-R) “Kool”, Kash Ramnarain, and Mr. Ramnarain, Snr
16 Florida’s Caribbean Sun
(L-R) Robert ”Kool”, Sakinah Bell, Morgan Strong and
Lester Lall
A Section of the crowd at Taste of Guyana in Tampa
Radio personality Ron Bobb-Semple introduces Dr. Maya Trotz at the Taste of Guyana
Tampa, FL
Mrs. Yvonne Hinds Center with Board members Guyana Relief Council of
Florida at their annual fundraising Ball held Carnival weekend in Miami
Mr. Diwali 2010 contestants
GACACF Financial Forum presenters
(L-R) Orange County Sheriff Demings, Police Chief Val Demings, Sakinah
Bell and Robert “ Kool” Bell
Brian Bacchus, Sakinah Bell and Robert “Kool” Bell at
