Thursday, July 21, 2011
Historic election makes Guyanese Lieutenant Governor Marketing of District 81 Caribbean Toastmasters.
Guyanese makes history by being elected Lieutenant Governor Marketing of District 81 Caribbean Toastmasters.Ewart Adams ACS/ALS created history when he became the first Guyanese to be elected as Lieutenant Governor Marketing for District 81 Caribbean Toastmasters, the third highest ranking office of the District at a recent conference held in Tortola.
District 81 which comprises of 18 countries Aruba, Barbados , Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands Curacao, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica , Martinique, Puerto Rico, St Lucia, St Maarten, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos and the US Virgin Islands, is affiliated to Toastmasters International a worldwide organization committed to improving Communication and leadership skills which exists in over 106 countries and has over 12500 clubs of which 4 million people have benefitted from the program since 1924 when it was founded by Dr Ralph Smedley in California.
As Lieutenant Governor of District 81, he is expected to coordinate the Marketing Strategies and activities necessary to achieve the District growth and objectives, by developing a strong Marketing plan and focusing on making Toastmasters available to more people by building new clubs in new Countries, Corporations and Communities while also emphasizing a dedication to member service.
Prior to being elected Lieutenant Governor Marketing Ewart Adams ACS/ALS would have served his club, Guyana Are Council of Toastmasters and as Division Governor for District 81, Guyana currently has 5 Toastmasters Clubs 3 corporate and 2 community Clubs.
Interested entities or group of persons desirous of having a Toastmasters Club established can send their request to ewart_adams@yahoo.com.
Guyanese Amputee takes Cycling Title in Anguilla
July 19, 2011Grant Stuart (Photo courtesy of the Guyana Cycling Assoc. of North America).
By Allison Skeete
News Americas, The Valley, Anguilla, Weds. July 20, 2011: --
Amputee cyclist, Walter Grant Stuart, is a standout athlete who now has a championship title to prove it.
Not only did he stand out in the 12th Annual John T. Memorial 102-mile long race this past Sunday, July 17th in Anguilla, but he captured the support and hearts of new fans and many others who clearly rooted him on with respect and awe. A former fireman in Guyana, Stuart lost his arm on active duty three years ago.
Amputee cyclist, Walter Grant Stuart, is a standout athlete who now has a championship title to prove it.
Not only did he stand out in the 12th Annual John T. Memorial 102-mile long race this past Sunday, July 17th in Anguilla, but he captured the support and hearts of new fans and many others who clearly rooted him on with respect and awe. A former fireman in Guyana, Stuart lost his arm on active duty three years ago.
But that has not stopped him one bit. On Sunday, he won the title of the John T. Memorial Cycle Race in a heated finish against Francl Pangan of St, Maarten in with a time of 3:42:12. He remained in the lead pack throughout the race amazing and pleasing the crowds on hand.
Shocked and stunned spectators were so impressed with his victory and skill they spontaneously went through the crowds and collected money and presented him afterwards.
The amputee cyclist had already proven himself to be among the top cyclists in Guyana. He was forced to drop out of the A+ race on Saturday, July 16th, when he encountered mechanical trouble with his bicycle. But word of his performance incited the crowds who came out to see the ‘One-Hand’ cyclist from Guyana, and Guyanese residing in Anguilla were overwhelmingly elated when he crossed the finish line first on Sunday.
Godfrey Pollydore, another Guyanese cyclist, took 7th place. He’s also a former top cyclist in Anguilla. No Anguillan has ever won this title, which sees more than 50 cyclists from around the Caribbean who participate in the event.
Stuart thanked the Anguillan community for making him feel at home and for their support at the awards ceremony. The first three place winners received a trophy and US$1,000, $800 and $600, respectively. The prize money decreased by $100 to the tenth place winner and all those placing between 11 and 20 received $50.
The Guyana Cycling Association of North America, which is presided over by Neville Hunte, supports the champion and will be hosting an event and raffle in honor of Stuart during the September Labor Day weekend in New York.
Source
Friday, June 24, 2011
Brooklyn Honors Caribbean Stalwarts for Caribbean Heritage Month 2011
BP MARKOWITZ, DEPUTY BP GRAHAM CELEBRATE CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE AT BOROUGH HALL
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June 24, 2011
*PHOTO RELEASE* BP MARKOWITZ, DEPUTY BP GRAHAM CELEBRATE CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE AT BOROUGH HALL
On Thursday, June 24, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz and Deputy Borough President Yvonne Graham celebrated Caribbean-American Heritage Month at Brooklyn Borough Hall in conjunction with the Caribbean-American Heritage Month Committee. Honorees included:
Lifetime Achievement Awards
Mr. Horace Morancie
Community Activist
Trinidad And Tobago
Mr. Tony Best
Journalist
Barbados
Entrepreneur Award
Ms. Sabrina Hosang
Coo Caribbean Food Delights
Jamaica
Community Service Award
Ms. Claire Goring
Hybiskus Creations
Guyana
Jon Paul Lupo
Office of Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz
Director of Communications and External Affairs
Photos by Kathryn Kirk
Photo 1: Deputy BP Yvonne Graham with the honorees, from left to right: Horace L Morancie, Claire Ann Goring, Graham, Sabrina Antoinette HoSang, Roy Hastik, President/CEO CACCI, Tony Best
Photo 2: BP Markowitz addresses the crowd while holding the flag of his self adopted Caribbean “home country,” Trinidad and Tobago.
June 24, 2011
*PHOTO RELEASE* BP MARKOWITZ, DEPUTY BP GRAHAM CELEBRATE CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE AT BOROUGH HALL
On Thursday, June 24, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz and Deputy Borough President Yvonne Graham celebrated Caribbean-American Heritage Month at Brooklyn Borough Hall in conjunction with the Caribbean-American Heritage Month Committee. Honorees included:
Lifetime Achievement Awards
Mr. Horace Morancie
Community Activist
Trinidad And Tobago
Mr. Tony Best
Journalist
Barbados
Entrepreneur Award
Ms. Sabrina Hosang
Coo Caribbean Food Delights
Jamaica
Community Service Award
Ms. Claire Goring
Hybiskus Creations
Guyana
Jon Paul Lupo
Office of Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz
Director of Communications and External Affairs
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Guyana Left Out in Brooklyn...
Caribbean Heritage Foul Up
Today, at Brooklyn Borough Hall, Caribbean Heritage month was being celebrated; however among the proud array of CARICOM Flags on display at the rotunda, that of the nation in which CARICOM was born in 1973 was missing.
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The omittance of this was noticed earlier in the week as Guyanese had flocked to the venue in celebration of that country's 45th independence. When a staff member of authority at Brooklyn Borough Hall who's involved in the planning of the events stated not knowing anything abouth having the Guyana flag there it led to cries of outrage, disappointment and feelings of disrespect.
What this blogger questions is doesn't the Borough President's office check facts? Isn't there a procedure on record and archival files showing that in the last six years that Guyanese in the constituency contribute and support these events? CARICOM has been in existence since 1973 wouldn't their staff check the CARICOM website to verify Guyana's membership? How will we ever get ahead if we don't know from whence we came?
At the Heads of Government Conference in 1973, then Prime Minister of Guyana, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham was among the leaders of signatory to the documentation at the founding of CARICOM.
Two noted Guyanese were slated to be honored at today's events, imagine their shock at the absence of the Golden Arrowhead on display in the rotunda. Along with members of the Guyanese Business Community and Press this represented a moment of hurt and outrage; one affluent Guyanese left the Hall in pursuit of finding a flag to wave, others became vocal at the staffer who should have known better. It appears that person opted not to disclose the grievous error of exclusion to avoid questioning of their job performance; an unconscionable choice in light of the PR nightmare it's bound to bring to the office of a well-liked and affable Borough President who claims any Caribbean Heritage when participating in events of the many Caribbean-American nations represented in his constituency.
When contacted, Marty Markowitz's Press Secretary was unaware of the fracas; and at last word was looking into it. I doubt that he's prepared for what he'll find. I dare say though that all too long the Guyanese community have let such oversights just pass as dust swept under the rug; this would not be an issue faced by Jamaica, Barbados or Trinidad.
Guyanese I urge you to speak up; contact the office of Borough President, Marty Markowitz, his office works for you and your vote keeps him in office.
Contact the Borough or Deputy Borough President, send an email, send a message: Marty Markowitz askmarty@broklynbp.nyc.gov or Yvonne Graham ygraham@brooklynbp.nyc.gov there should be an apology issued to the Guyanese Community.
Mark Zustovich
Office of Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz
Press Secretary
209 Joralemon Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201
718.802.3830 (office)
917.355.8590 (mobile)
http://www.brooklyn-usa.org/
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The Guyana flag finally placed on the banister at Brooklyn Borough Hall after the nation in which CARICOM was signed into existence had its flag omitted from display with all the other member nations of CARICOM in the rotunda as the borough celebrated Caribbean-American Heritage Month.
Today, at Brooklyn Borough Hall, Caribbean Heritage month was being celebrated; however among the proud array of CARICOM Flags on display at the rotunda, that of the nation in which CARICOM was born in 1973 was missing.
The flag of Guyana, known as The Golden Arrowhead, has been the national flag of Guyana since May 1966 when the country became independent from the United Kingdom. It was designed by Whitney Smith, an American vexillologist (though originally without the black and white fimbriations, which were later additions suggested by the College of Arms in the United Kingdom).
The proportions of the national flag are 3:5. The colours are symbolic, with green for agriculture and forests, white for rivers and water, gold for mineral wealth, black for endurance, and red for zeal and dynamism.
The omittance of this was noticed earlier in the week as Guyanese had flocked to the venue in celebration of that country's 45th independence. When a staff member of authority at Brooklyn Borough Hall who's involved in the planning of the events stated not knowing anything abouth having the Guyana flag there it led to cries of outrage, disappointment and feelings of disrespect.
What this blogger questions is doesn't the Borough President's office check facts? Isn't there a procedure on record and archival files showing that in the last six years that Guyanese in the constituency contribute and support these events? CARICOM has been in existence since 1973 wouldn't their staff check the CARICOM website to verify Guyana's membership? How will we ever get ahead if we don't know from whence we came?
At the Heads of Government Conference in 1973, then Prime Minister of Guyana, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham was among the leaders of signatory to the documentation at the founding of CARICOM.
Two noted Guyanese were slated to be honored at today's events, imagine their shock at the absence of the Golden Arrowhead on display in the rotunda. Along with members of the Guyanese Business Community and Press this represented a moment of hurt and outrage; one affluent Guyanese left the Hall in pursuit of finding a flag to wave, others became vocal at the staffer who should have known better. It appears that person opted not to disclose the grievous error of exclusion to avoid questioning of their job performance; an unconscionable choice in light of the PR nightmare it's bound to bring to the office of a well-liked and affable Borough President who claims any Caribbean Heritage when participating in events of the many Caribbean-American nations represented in his constituency.
When contacted, Marty Markowitz's Press Secretary was unaware of the fracas; and at last word was looking into it. I doubt that he's prepared for what he'll find. I dare say though that all too long the Guyanese community have let such oversights just pass as dust swept under the rug; this would not be an issue faced by Jamaica, Barbados or Trinidad.
Guyanese I urge you to speak up; contact the office of Borough President, Marty Markowitz, his office works for you and your vote keeps him in office.
Contact the Borough or Deputy Borough President, send an email, send a message: Marty Markowitz askmarty@broklynbp.nyc.gov or Yvonne Graham ygraham@brooklynbp.nyc.gov there should be an apology issued to the Guyanese Community.
Mark Zustovich
Office of Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz
Press Secretary
209 Joralemon Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201
718.802.3830 (office)
917.355.8590 (mobile)
http://www.brooklyn-usa.org/
Wanna Satiate Your Summer Cravings?!
Chef/owner Alavia Moore is serving up some seriously great food at iLand Breeze.
973-761-0504, Maplewood, NJCredit Lauren Bright
Pssst...Wanna Satiate Your Summer Cravings?!
By Lauren Bright Pacheco
Email the author
June 22, 2011
Aww yeah, we're gonna help bump you over the end of school slump with a serious serving of delicious dish on some of the most anticipated openings and offerings in town:
iLand Breeze – The taste of the tropics radiate from this menu of this scrumptious Springfield Avenue joint with such force you nearly need SPF to read it. The big story here? The tweaks made just in time for fun in the summer sun:
“We’re going with bolder, more exciting flavors in lighter dishes,” says stunning chef/owner Avalia Moore. “People crave lighter, less heavy fare for the hotter weather, so we’re adding offerings like sandwiches and gourmet burgers in addition to the dishes we’re famed for like Jerk Salmon and Jerk Tilapia.”
Also new... Just call (973-761-0504) for CURBSIDE PICK-UP - ring ahead on the way to your next picnic or the pool and a delicious meal's a done deal! Now that’s seriously sure to be a major Maplewood SPLASH!!! (And, yes, they still deliver, too.) You also won’t want to miss their Customer Appreciation Day scheduled for July 9th from 12:00 noon - 6:00 pm. Stop in for a free sampling with a 20% discount off of regular priced items.
Source
Friday, June 10, 2011
iLand Breeze Cafe Update...
Breached and Betrayed, iLand Breeze Café is set to rebound…
MAPLEWOOD, NJ – Friday, June 10, 2011:-- How do you rebuild a business after there has been a severe violation of trust and communication? When iLand Breeze Café opened in Maplewood last April 2010; its appeal was a welcome one to the community… it presented an exciting flair of flavors that brought customers in and who spread the word quickly about the multi-pleasing palate café. Yet within a year customers were scratching their heads and wondering WHAT HAPPENED?
We thought we’d ask this question of Availa Moore the owner of iLand Breeze…
CMW: When iLand Breeze first opened there were two of you involved in the business, what was the concept in mind for the establishment?
AM: The concept we had been to create a unique Caribbean & Southern flavor eatery with an ambiance; featuring family trays at an affordable price. As you know, it can become expensive ordering individual servings.
CMW: What happened to change the business between you two?
AM: Partnerships have varied contractual agreements, my former partner was supposed to buy into the partnership. What that means is that I provided the financing needed to open the business and he was suppose to re-reimburse me a certain portion; at which time he would have become a legitimate partner on paper.
CMW: There’s been talk of distrust and betrayal and that even some law enforcement steps having been taken; do you care to shed a little light on that?
AM: Well, my former "partner" did not fulfill the partnership agreement; instead he sought to assume sole proprietorship deceitfully. When that was unsuccessful he resorted to using slander to sabotage the business; along with friends he wrote numerous slanderous letters and emails and even used social media venues attempting to hurt or bring and end to iLand Breeze despite legal facts that show his claims to be untrue and without merit. It was an unexpected blow.
CMW: Was there a total partnership established?
AM: No
CMW: After your sole ownership was established how did you start again?
AM: I re-launched the business by having a grand Re-Opening to the community and introduced featured guest artists. The Mayor of Maplewood also came out in support of the re-opening and I acquired a major catering contract at that same time.
CMW: So your catering became much more profitable than running the day to day café… is that why you sought the assistance of another "Chef"?
AM: Yes, essentially catering did become more profitable than running the day to day of the cafe.
CMW: Now that Chef has left and breached your agreement, by leaving before the terms set for your contract ended; what’s your next step to move on?
AM: My next step is to take full control of my business and I will be introducing a new summer menu.
CMW: You launched a re-opening after the trouble which led to your sole proprietorship per the legal documents in place at the start of your business in 2010, how will you re-establish iLand Breeze a second time and will you engage with the idea of partnering again?
AM: At the moment I am focusing on re-building however we never know what the future holds so I won't cross it off the list. I will however, be extremely selective of my future associates by taking the time to do due diligence. With that being said, I will yet again re-launch and re-establish iLand Breeze by having Customer Appreciation Day to thank my loyal customers for their support and re-introducing them my authentic cooking. In addition, I have enlisted the help of an experienced colleague and friend in hospitality management who has worked with the Hilton and Marriott Hotels to assist me with Customer Service and back-of- the house needs.
CMW: What will you do to ensure your customers that iLand Breeze is here to stay… customers want to know if your passion and your food will be as they’ve come to know and enjoy it… how will you win their support back after all that’s happened?
AM: I have to make it work; I’ve never lost my passion for the quality or flavor of my food; I entrusted someone else to carry on as I had; they’ve breached our contract and it cost me some customers but now with a better support system in place, I will once again be the Chef-in-house doing the cooking and baking. I will also implement a loyalty rewards programs, where customers will receive their 10th purchase free up to a specific dollar amount.
CMW: Statistics show that it takes at least 5 years for any new small business to begin showing profit, you’ve been fortunate that your catering contracts have helped you to avoid this as its been lucrative for you which has helped ease some of the pitfalls that have taken place. Will you now focus more on the daily running of the café?
AM: Yes, I have invested my life savings into this business and it’s what I know.
CMW: Is iLand Breeze going to restart its trend of presenting featured guests in the summer as in the past?
AM: Yes, we want to give the community something different so we will do that again.
CMW: What do you want to say to your customers and the Maplewood community to assure them that iLand Breeze is back and here to stay?
AM: I want to apologize to the customers for the inconsistencies they’ve encountered and to thank them for their continued support during the ups and downs that have taken place; and as such I would like to take this opportunity to invite them to the Customer Appreciation Day scheduled for July 9th from 12:00 noon - 6:00 pm. There will be free sampling with a 20% discount off of regular priced items.
iLand Breeze Cafe & Catering
Location: 1901 SPRINGFIELD AVE., MAPLEWOOD, NJ 07040
Phone: 973-489-0068
Hours: Mon - Fri: 9AM - 9PM - Sat: 9AM - 9PM
MAPLEWOOD, NJ – Friday, June 10, 2011:-- How do you rebuild a business after there has been a severe violation of trust and communication? When iLand Breeze Café opened in Maplewood last April 2010; its appeal was a welcome one to the community… it presented an exciting flair of flavors that brought customers in and who spread the word quickly about the multi-pleasing palate café. Yet within a year customers were scratching their heads and wondering WHAT HAPPENED?
We thought we’d ask this question of Availa Moore the owner of iLand Breeze…
 |
| Mayor DeLuca; Avalia Moore & Vice Mayor Cathleen Leventhal at iLand Breeze Cafe. VisionsInPictures Image |
AM: The concept we had been to create a unique Caribbean & Southern flavor eatery with an ambiance; featuring family trays at an affordable price. As you know, it can become expensive ordering individual servings.
CMW: What happened to change the business between you two?
AM: Partnerships have varied contractual agreements, my former partner was supposed to buy into the partnership. What that means is that I provided the financing needed to open the business and he was suppose to re-reimburse me a certain portion; at which time he would have become a legitimate partner on paper.
CMW: There’s been talk of distrust and betrayal and that even some law enforcement steps having been taken; do you care to shed a little light on that?
AM: Well, my former "partner" did not fulfill the partnership agreement; instead he sought to assume sole proprietorship deceitfully. When that was unsuccessful he resorted to using slander to sabotage the business; along with friends he wrote numerous slanderous letters and emails and even used social media venues attempting to hurt or bring and end to iLand Breeze despite legal facts that show his claims to be untrue and without merit. It was an unexpected blow.
CMW: Was there a total partnership established?
AM: No
CMW: After your sole ownership was established how did you start again?
AM: I re-launched the business by having a grand Re-Opening to the community and introduced featured guest artists. The Mayor of Maplewood also came out in support of the re-opening and I acquired a major catering contract at that same time.
CMW: So your catering became much more profitable than running the day to day café… is that why you sought the assistance of another "Chef"?
AM: Yes, essentially catering did become more profitable than running the day to day of the cafe.
CMW: Now that Chef has left and breached your agreement, by leaving before the terms set for your contract ended; what’s your next step to move on?
AM: My next step is to take full control of my business and I will be introducing a new summer menu.
CMW: You launched a re-opening after the trouble which led to your sole proprietorship per the legal documents in place at the start of your business in 2010, how will you re-establish iLand Breeze a second time and will you engage with the idea of partnering again?
AM: At the moment I am focusing on re-building however we never know what the future holds so I won't cross it off the list. I will however, be extremely selective of my future associates by taking the time to do due diligence. With that being said, I will yet again re-launch and re-establish iLand Breeze by having Customer Appreciation Day to thank my loyal customers for their support and re-introducing them my authentic cooking. In addition, I have enlisted the help of an experienced colleague and friend in hospitality management who has worked with the Hilton and Marriott Hotels to assist me with Customer Service and back-of- the house needs.
CMW: What will you do to ensure your customers that iLand Breeze is here to stay… customers want to know if your passion and your food will be as they’ve come to know and enjoy it… how will you win their support back after all that’s happened?
AM: I have to make it work; I’ve never lost my passion for the quality or flavor of my food; I entrusted someone else to carry on as I had; they’ve breached our contract and it cost me some customers but now with a better support system in place, I will once again be the Chef-in-house doing the cooking and baking. I will also implement a loyalty rewards programs, where customers will receive their 10th purchase free up to a specific dollar amount.
CMW: Statistics show that it takes at least 5 years for any new small business to begin showing profit, you’ve been fortunate that your catering contracts have helped you to avoid this as its been lucrative for you which has helped ease some of the pitfalls that have taken place. Will you now focus more on the daily running of the café?
AM: Yes, I have invested my life savings into this business and it’s what I know.
CMW: Is iLand Breeze going to restart its trend of presenting featured guests in the summer as in the past?
AM: Yes, we want to give the community something different so we will do that again.
CMW: What do you want to say to your customers and the Maplewood community to assure them that iLand Breeze is back and here to stay?
AM: I want to apologize to the customers for the inconsistencies they’ve encountered and to thank them for their continued support during the ups and downs that have taken place; and as such I would like to take this opportunity to invite them to the Customer Appreciation Day scheduled for July 9th from 12:00 noon - 6:00 pm. There will be free sampling with a 20% discount off of regular priced items.
iLand Breeze Cafe & Catering
Location: 1901 SPRINGFIELD AVE., MAPLEWOOD, NJ 07040
Phone: 973-489-0068
Hours: Mon - Fri: 9AM - 9PM - Sat: 9AM - 9PM
The CABA 2011 Honors
CABA Honors Civic Leaders in the Community
By Allison Skeete
MAPLEWOOD, NJ Friday, June 10, 2011: The Caribbean American Business Association of New Jersey recently held its annual gala dinner in Newark at the Airport Marriott Hotel. The economic and cultural growth of business leaders in New Jersey’s Caribbean American community and the greater Diaspora are chief reasons CABA was founded the opportunity for the procurement of success and benefit to the community is paramount for the success aimed for by CABA; they aim to help members to capitalize by using networking that help businesses manage their business and maintain their success.
East Orange General Hospital was honored with the Corporate Award; this is the only independent and fully accredited acute care hospital in Essex County with recognized programs in Kidney Dialysis, wound and emergency services. It’s a 211 bed facility and has survived to remain in operation when many others have closed in the county. Originally founded in Newark in 1903 it was relocated to East Orange in 1926 and has been expanded to occupy four long blocks along Central Avenue today. (Left: East Orange General Hospital representatives accept their award from Carl Fraser, CABA Bd. Member, Photo by VisionsInPictures)
Consolidations and closing of other area hospitals means a continual changing in the mission of East Orange General Hospital but its underlying quest to provide patient care remains a committed one. Today they have a state-of-the art MRI unit and have begun to implement an electronic health records system to ensure faster and more accurate patient care with more easily accessible patient records. Today East Orange Hospital stands as the head cornerstone of a community of an ever changing population at large.
(Sen. Rice receives his award from CABA Bd. Member, Dr. Elise Bourne-Busby, Photo by VisionsInPictures)
The stellar accomplishments of Senator Rice, were highlighted when he was presented with the President’s Award acknowledging his work and commitment to his constituents; he’s been elected seven times to retain his office which he first entered in 1986. The scholar, Marine Corp. Veteran and former police detective is known for fighting for the rights of people without bias and influence; though born in Richmond, VA, the state of New Jersey garnered a champion in this leader who’s affectionately known ‘Lion of the Senate’.
(Everton Scott gives expressive thanks for his award. Photo by VisionsInPictures) Everton Scott is the Regional Public Affairs Manager in Essex and Passaic Counties for Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G); another community stalwart who received the Community Service Award. He serves on many Board of Directors such as the Morris County Planning Board, the Greater Paterson Chamber of Commerce, the North New Jersey Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Morris County Human Relations commission and Morris Tomorrow and the County College of Morris County to name a few. He’s a native of Jamaica, West Indies and is the proud husband and father. He and wife Pauline have two children and strongly support his achievements as a scholar and businessman. He credited his humble beginnings and different experiences as worth overcoming to stand and accept the honor of achievement from a community that relates to his ideals, and commitment.
The event’s Keynote Speaker Dr. Valentine Burroughs is the Chief Medical Officer at East Orange General Hospital; he is a Board Certified Internist and Endocrinologist who has also served as the Chief ME in Wilmington, Delaware and in New York City. He provided remarks on the changes in health care under the new system signed into law by President Barack Obama and provided insight to what we should know and expect. He’s spent much time in communities plagued by poor health and other disparities; these are often over run areas overlooked but that are badly in need of services. He’s worked to established programs for overweight and obesity management and had written many landmark articles and a book on racial and ethnic difference in response to medication and ethics in the pharmaceutical industries.
By Allison Skeete
MAPLEWOOD, NJ Friday, June 10, 2011: The Caribbean American Business Association of New Jersey recently held its annual gala dinner in Newark at the Airport Marriott Hotel. The economic and cultural growth of business leaders in New Jersey’s Caribbean American community and the greater Diaspora are chief reasons CABA was founded the opportunity for the procurement of success and benefit to the community is paramount for the success aimed for by CABA; they aim to help members to capitalize by using networking that help businesses manage their business and maintain their success.
This year's award winners were East Orange General Hospital and Senator Ronald Rice; a stalwart in public service in Essex County along with Everton Scott Regional Public Affairs Manager for PSE&G.
East Orange General Hospital was honored with the Corporate Award; this is the only independent and fully accredited acute care hospital in Essex County with recognized programs in Kidney Dialysis, wound and emergency services. It’s a 211 bed facility and has survived to remain in operation when many others have closed in the county. Originally founded in Newark in 1903 it was relocated to East Orange in 1926 and has been expanded to occupy four long blocks along Central Avenue today. (Left: East Orange General Hospital representatives accept their award from Carl Fraser, CABA Bd. Member, Photo by VisionsInPictures)Consolidations and closing of other area hospitals means a continual changing in the mission of East Orange General Hospital but its underlying quest to provide patient care remains a committed one. Today they have a state-of-the art MRI unit and have begun to implement an electronic health records system to ensure faster and more accurate patient care with more easily accessible patient records. Today East Orange Hospital stands as the head cornerstone of a community of an ever changing population at large.
The stellar accomplishments of Senator Rice, were highlighted when he was presented with the President’s Award acknowledging his work and commitment to his constituents; he’s been elected seven times to retain his office which he first entered in 1986. The scholar, Marine Corp. Veteran and former police detective is known for fighting for the rights of people without bias and influence; though born in Richmond, VA, the state of New Jersey garnered a champion in this leader who’s affectionately known ‘Lion of the Senate’.
(Everton Scott gives expressive thanks for his award. Photo by VisionsInPictures) Everton Scott is the Regional Public Affairs Manager in Essex and Passaic Counties for Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G); another community stalwart who received the Community Service Award. He serves on many Board of Directors such as the Morris County Planning Board, the Greater Paterson Chamber of Commerce, the North New Jersey Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Morris County Human Relations commission and Morris Tomorrow and the County College of Morris County to name a few. He’s a native of Jamaica, West Indies and is the proud husband and father. He and wife Pauline have two children and strongly support his achievements as a scholar and businessman. He credited his humble beginnings and different experiences as worth overcoming to stand and accept the honor of achievement from a community that relates to his ideals, and commitment. The event’s Keynote Speaker Dr. Valentine Burroughs is the Chief Medical Officer at East Orange General Hospital; he is a Board Certified Internist and Endocrinologist who has also served as the Chief ME in Wilmington, Delaware and in New York City. He provided remarks on the changes in health care under the new system signed into law by President Barack Obama and provided insight to what we should know and expect. He’s spent much time in communities plagued by poor health and other disparities; these are often over run areas overlooked but that are badly in need of services. He’s worked to established programs for overweight and obesity management and had written many landmark articles and a book on racial and ethnic difference in response to medication and ethics in the pharmaceutical industries.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
AFRO-LATINO Roots Explored at the Brooklyn Museum
First Saturday's at the Brooklyn Museum presents
June 4, 2011Afro-Latin Roots Music - 5–7 p.m.
Ghanaian recording artist Blitz the Ambassador celebrates his new album, Native Sun, with a live hip-hop set with The Embassy Ensemble.
Film - 6 p.m.
A Dios Momo (Leonardo Ricagni, 2005, 100 min.). An Afro-Uruguayan boy learns about life and his heritage through the songs of Carnival. Free tickets (330) available at the Visitor Center at 5 p.m.
Performance - 6 p.m.
Queer Nigerian poet Yvonne Fly Onakeme Etaghene presents her one-woman show Volcano’s Birthright{s}. Free tickets (25) available at the Visitor Center at 5 p.m.
Hands-on Art - 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Create an Inca-inspired work of art. Free timed tickets (380) available at the Visitor Center at 5:30 p.m.
Curator Talk - 7 p.m.
Curator of African Art Kevin Dumouchelle discusses highlights of the African collection. Free tickets (30) available at the Visitor Center at 6 p.m.
Dance Party - 8–10 p.m.
DJ Spinna plays a variety of world music.
Book Club - 9 p.m.Join a discussion of Junot DÃaz’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Riverhead, 2007), about Dominicans and Dominican Americans of African descent living in the United States.
Music - 9–10 p.m.
Cuban musician Juan-Carlos Formell taps into the African roots of the Caribbean experience. This concert is co-presented by the Museum and the Neighborhood Concert Series of Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute.
Late Night in the Galleries - 10–11 p.m.
All galleries open.
Made possible by the Wallace Foundation Community Programs Fund, established by the Wallace Foundation, with additional support from DLA Piper, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Ellis A. Gimbel Trust, National Grid, and other donors.
New York Times Community Affairs Department, media sponsor.
WNYC Radio, broadcast media sponsor.
At the Brooklyn Museum's Target First Saturdays, thousands of visitors enjoy free programs of art and entertainment each month from 5 to 11 p.m. All evening long, the Museum Café serves a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, and beverages, and a cash bar offers wine and beer. Parking is a flat rate of $4 starting at 5 p.m. All other Saturdays, the Museum closes at 6 p.m.
Please note that due to limited capacities, some Target First Saturday programs require tickets. Ticket lines often form 30 minutes before ticket distribution at the Visitor Center located in the Rubin Lobby. Members may pick up tickets from the Membership Desk beginning at 2 p.m. while supplies last. Programs subject to change without notice.
Sign up for the Target First Saturday e-mail list or subscribe to updates via RSS.
June 4, 2011Afro-Latin Roots Music - 5–7 p.m.
Ghanaian recording artist Blitz the Ambassador celebrates his new album, Native Sun, with a live hip-hop set with The Embassy Ensemble.
Film - 6 p.m.
A Dios Momo (Leonardo Ricagni, 2005, 100 min.). An Afro-Uruguayan boy learns about life and his heritage through the songs of Carnival. Free tickets (330) available at the Visitor Center at 5 p.m.
Performance - 6 p.m.
Queer Nigerian poet Yvonne Fly Onakeme Etaghene presents her one-woman show Volcano’s Birthright{s}. Free tickets (25) available at the Visitor Center at 5 p.m.
Hands-on Art - 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Create an Inca-inspired work of art. Free timed tickets (380) available at the Visitor Center at 5:30 p.m.
Curator Talk - 7 p.m.
Curator of African Art Kevin Dumouchelle discusses highlights of the African collection. Free tickets (30) available at the Visitor Center at 6 p.m.
Dance Party - 8–10 p.m.
DJ Spinna plays a variety of world music.
Book Club - 9 p.m.Join a discussion of Junot DÃaz’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Riverhead, 2007), about Dominicans and Dominican Americans of African descent living in the United States.
Music - 9–10 p.m.
Cuban musician Juan-Carlos Formell taps into the African roots of the Caribbean experience. This concert is co-presented by the Museum and the Neighborhood Concert Series of Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute.
Late Night in the Galleries - 10–11 p.m.
All galleries open.
Sponsored by
Made possible by the Wallace Foundation Community Programs Fund, established by the Wallace Foundation, with additional support from DLA Piper, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Ellis A. Gimbel Trust, National Grid, and other donors.Major support also provided by The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.
New York Times Community Affairs Department, media sponsor.
WNYC Radio, broadcast media sponsor.
At the Brooklyn Museum's Target First Saturdays, thousands of visitors enjoy free programs of art and entertainment each month from 5 to 11 p.m. All evening long, the Museum Café serves a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, and beverages, and a cash bar offers wine and beer. Parking is a flat rate of $4 starting at 5 p.m. All other Saturdays, the Museum closes at 6 p.m.
Please note that due to limited capacities, some Target First Saturday programs require tickets. Ticket lines often form 30 minutes before ticket distribution at the Visitor Center located in the Rubin Lobby. Members may pick up tickets from the Membership Desk beginning at 2 p.m. while supplies last. Programs subject to change without notice.
Sign up for the Target First Saturday e-mail list or subscribe to updates via RSS.
The Brooklyn Museum & POV (Point of View) Screening
Brooklyn Museum presents The Oath, an award-winning film by Oscar nominee Laura Poitras.
The Oath (Laura Poitras, 2010, 90 min.). Filmed in Yemen and Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, this is a story about the fateful 1996 encounter between a man who would later serve as a bodyguard to Osama Bin Laden and a future prisoner of Guantánamo Bay. The fallout of that meeting set them on a path twisting toward 9/11 and beyond. Through a narrative rife with reversals, twists, and turns, director Poitras showcases the complexity and confusion surrounding these globally significant events. Winner of the 2010 Sundance Film Festival Excellence in Cinematography Award: Documentary. A co-production of ITVS in association with American Documentary/POV.
This event is a collaboration with the award-winning documentary series POV. Free with Museum admission. As seating is limited, advance ticket purchase for general admission and a reserved seat at the screening is recommended at http://www.museumtix.com/.
When: 7:00 PM , June 23rd, 2011 Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Auditorium, 3rd Floor
Where: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11238-6052
Cost: FREE with Museum admission
Who: Award-winning film editor Jonathan Oppenheim will be in attendance for a Q&A after the film.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
NYC Summer Stage 2011
Hello SummerStage Fans!
On Tuesday, June 14, 2011, City Parks Foundation (CPF) will welcome guests to the SummerStage Gala, an annual fundraising benefit, to support CPF's free year-round arts programming. This year's concert is an evening of classic Motown hits! Bleachers seats are just $49, see below or visit www.summerstage.org/gala for details and to purchase tickets.
CLICK HERE TO BUY $49 GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS
Schedule of Events:
6:00 p.m. VIP Cocktail Party
7:00 p.m. Dinner
8:00 p.m. Concert
On Tuesday, June 14, 2011, City Parks Foundation (CPF) will welcome guests to the SummerStage Gala, an annual fundraising benefit, to support CPF's free year-round arts programming. This year's concert is an evening of classic Motown hits starring:
Martha Reeves "Dancing in the Street"
Percy Sledge "When a Man Loves a Woman"
Dennis Edwards "My Girl"
Bettye Lavette
Joan Osborne • Ryan Shaw • José James
Amel Larrieux • Eli "PaperBoy" Reed
Deva Mahal • Robert Earl Keen
and featuring
The New York Pops
Steven Reineke, Music Director and Conductor
The night begins at 6:00 p.m. with a cocktail party for table purchasers held in the Pergola Area at SummerStage. At 7:00 p.m., tables of ten are served a full dinner and tables of four are provided with a light snack, followed by the concert at 8:00 p.m.
Central Park SummerStage is located at Rumsey Playfield (72nd Street, mid-park). Event is rain or shine.
On Tuesday, June 14, 2011, City Parks Foundation (CPF) will welcome guests to the SummerStage Gala, an annual fundraising benefit, to support CPF's free year-round arts programming. This year's concert is an evening of classic Motown hits! Bleachers seats are just $49, see below or visit www.summerstage.org/gala for details and to purchase tickets.
SummerStage Gala
Motown Meets NYC
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Motown Meets NYC
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
CLICK HERE TO BUY $49 GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS
Schedule of Events:
6:00 p.m. VIP Cocktail Party
7:00 p.m. Dinner
8:00 p.m. Concert
On Tuesday, June 14, 2011, City Parks Foundation (CPF) will welcome guests to the SummerStage Gala, an annual fundraising benefit, to support CPF's free year-round arts programming. This year's concert is an evening of classic Motown hits starring:
Martha Reeves "Dancing in the Street"
Percy Sledge "When a Man Loves a Woman"
Dennis Edwards "My Girl"
Bettye Lavette
Joan Osborne • Ryan Shaw • José James
Amel Larrieux • Eli "PaperBoy" Reed
Deva Mahal • Robert Earl Keen
and featuring
The New York Pops
Steven Reineke, Music Director and Conductor
The night begins at 6:00 p.m. with a cocktail party for table purchasers held in the Pergola Area at SummerStage. At 7:00 p.m., tables of ten are served a full dinner and tables of four are provided with a light snack, followed by the concert at 8:00 p.m.
Central Park SummerStage is located at Rumsey Playfield (72nd Street, mid-park). Event is rain or shine.
Sunset Soca @ the Brooklyn Bridge Conservancy Park
Sunset Soca, Thursday, June 26:00pm - 9:00pm, Pier 1
The weather looks fantastic, and Pier 1 is about to get hot, hot, hot.
Only 1 more day to get your tickets for the party that kicks off summer. Sunset Soca will transform Pier 1 into a Caribbean hotspot, with island rhythms, delicious food and specialty cocktails, and a very special silent auction with vacation homes, one-of-a-kind tours, and more. Check out all the auction items and plan your bids!
Live Caribbean music, island-inspired food & cocktails, children's activities, and a silent auction ... all to benefit free public programming in the park.
Thursday, June 2, 6:00-9:00pm, Pier 1
Ticket sales are open online until Thursday at 3:00pm!
Ticket sales are open online until Thursday at 3:00pm!
Individual tickets are $125 online; $150 at the door.
GET YOUR TICKETS NOW
If you can't attend Sunset Soca this year, please consider making a donation to show your support for a world-class park on the Brooklyn waterfront.
Beer lovingly provided by Brooklyn Brewery
Wine and spirits graciously donated by Heights Chateau
Children's activities provided by Half Pint Citizens
For more information and FREE upcoming events in Brooklyn Bridge Park check out brooklynbridgepark.org and brookynbridgeparknyc.org
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Moonlight Storytelling... Folklore and more from Guyana...
Guyana Cultural Association launches it's 2011 Season with Moonlight Storytelling. Full Moon Storytelling Night: Folk Tales and Tellers from Guyana
This special event outside St. Stephen’s Church will feature Guyanese folk tales told by the light of the full moon. Featuring the stories of George Davidson, Winston "Jeggae" Hoppe and others from the Guyanese community with special guest tale teller Tammy Hall. Meet outside the church; in case of rain, inside the church. Click here for directions
Presented by Brooklyn Arts Council in cooperation with the Guyana Cultural Association
WHEN: Wednesday, June 1, 6:30-8:30pm
WHERE: St. Stephen’s Church
E.28th St and Newkirk Avenue (East Flatbush
Artist Bios
Robin Bady is a storyteller who draws upon world folklore, fairy tales, oral traditions, ghost stories and literature for fun interactive storytelling performances that educate as well as entertain. With guitar and songs, movement and madcap characterizations, she brings her stories to joyful life, creating an electric and engaging rapport with her audience. Her storytelling connects us to each other across cultures, traditions and time, powerfully reminding us that we are all members of one world family.
Grace Chapman is an educator, folklorist and performance artist. Over the past twenty years, Ms. Chapman has developed curricula to enhance learning through use of the creative arts, with a focus on underserved student populations. Recognized as one of Guyana’s leading performance artists and folklorists, she has written, directed, and appeared in several critically acclaimed productions which explore diverse themes of Guyanese/Caribbean history, culture and folklore. These presentations include The Green Bottle, Ghost at El Dorado, and Ol’ Higue.
George Davidson was born in Guyana in 1938. He has lived in Brooklyn for many years, but he retains traditional folktales learned from his mother and father when he was a boy and others learned later from his wife. Some of these tales have an African lineage, such as the Nansi spider trickster tales. Others are part of a broader lineage of malevolent female shape-shifter and witch stories, such as Ole Higue (Old Hag), told in different traditions throughout the world. George exemplifies the kind of traditional storytelling that is culturally specific, learned informally and performed in intimate settings on moonlight story nights.
Tammy Hall, a former New York City teacher and advocate for literacy, has been called “Storyteller Supreme” and conducts storytelling and writing workshops throughout the greater metropolitan area. As an African-American and native of Clarksville, Tennessee, she draws from her black southern rural heritage to deliver an unforgettable tale. Listening to wonderful stories at the foot of her first and most memorable storyteller, her father, had a profound effect on her life. Ms. Hall believes storytelling to be an artistic, expressive way of bringing people together and guiding them on a journey of the world’s cultures, peoples, and landscapes through imagination.
Winston "Jeggae" Hoppie is well-known in his Brooklyn community as a percussionist and poet. As a drummer for the Spiritual Baptist Church, he plays for church services, weddings, and funeral wakes. He has expert knowledge of Guyanese folk traditions in music and story. He performs traditional story genres from Guyana such as the ballad “Uncle Joe,” the story song “Jane Engaged,” as well as legends associated with the bottle genie called bakou.
Event Flyer
Source
This special event outside St. Stephen’s Church will feature Guyanese folk tales told by the light of the full moon. Featuring the stories of George Davidson, Winston "Jeggae" Hoppe and others from the Guyanese community with special guest tale teller Tammy Hall. Meet outside the church; in case of rain, inside the church. Click here for directions
Presented by Brooklyn Arts Council in cooperation with the Guyana Cultural Association
WHEN: Wednesday, June 1, 6:30-8:30pm
WHERE: St. Stephen’s Church
E.28th St and Newkirk Avenue (East Flatbush
Artist Bios
Robin Bady is a storyteller who draws upon world folklore, fairy tales, oral traditions, ghost stories and literature for fun interactive storytelling performances that educate as well as entertain. With guitar and songs, movement and madcap characterizations, she brings her stories to joyful life, creating an electric and engaging rapport with her audience. Her storytelling connects us to each other across cultures, traditions and time, powerfully reminding us that we are all members of one world family.
Grace Chapman is an educator, folklorist and performance artist. Over the past twenty years, Ms. Chapman has developed curricula to enhance learning through use of the creative arts, with a focus on underserved student populations. Recognized as one of Guyana’s leading performance artists and folklorists, she has written, directed, and appeared in several critically acclaimed productions which explore diverse themes of Guyanese/Caribbean history, culture and folklore. These presentations include The Green Bottle, Ghost at El Dorado, and Ol’ Higue.
George Davidson was born in Guyana in 1938. He has lived in Brooklyn for many years, but he retains traditional folktales learned from his mother and father when he was a boy and others learned later from his wife. Some of these tales have an African lineage, such as the Nansi spider trickster tales. Others are part of a broader lineage of malevolent female shape-shifter and witch stories, such as Ole Higue (Old Hag), told in different traditions throughout the world. George exemplifies the kind of traditional storytelling that is culturally specific, learned informally and performed in intimate settings on moonlight story nights.
Tammy Hall, a former New York City teacher and advocate for literacy, has been called “Storyteller Supreme” and conducts storytelling and writing workshops throughout the greater metropolitan area. As an African-American and native of Clarksville, Tennessee, she draws from her black southern rural heritage to deliver an unforgettable tale. Listening to wonderful stories at the foot of her first and most memorable storyteller, her father, had a profound effect on her life. Ms. Hall believes storytelling to be an artistic, expressive way of bringing people together and guiding them on a journey of the world’s cultures, peoples, and landscapes through imagination.
Winston "Jeggae" Hoppie is well-known in his Brooklyn community as a percussionist and poet. As a drummer for the Spiritual Baptist Church, he plays for church services, weddings, and funeral wakes. He has expert knowledge of Guyanese folk traditions in music and story. He performs traditional story genres from Guyana such as the ballad “Uncle Joe,” the story song “Jane Engaged,” as well as legends associated with the bottle genie called bakou.
Event Flyer
Source
NJ Senator to be honored at CABA's 2011 Gala Dinner
The Caribbean American Business Association of New Jersey to honor State Senator
MAPLEWOOD, NJ, - May 23, 2011: -- The Caribbean American Business Association (CABA) of New Jersey will be hosting its annual Gala Dinner on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at the Newark Liberty Airport Marriott Hotel. Tickets are $100.
Presided over by founder Vincent Huggins, the six year-old not for profit organization has garnered support in its short history form New Jersey’s elected official like Congressman Donald Payne, Senator Ronald Rice and former Governor Jon Corzine and several Counsel Generals from many Caribbean countries. Mr. Huggins is also the founder of National Staffing Associates which has been doing business for more than 20 years in Essex County, NJ providing staff for medical and other health care facilities.
Annually the group honors those who’ve helped foster an economic and
cultural growth and improvement by visionary business leaders who contribute and support many in New Jersey and its Caribbean American community and the greater Diaspora. The Gala Dinner will honor Senator Rice this year among the stalwarts who in public service in Essex County; along with East Orange General Hospital and others.
L:- R:-- Congressman Payne accepts award from CABA President, Vincent HugginsPresided over by founder Vincent Huggins, the six year-old not for profit organization has garnered support in its short history form New Jersey’s elected official like Congressman Donald Payne, Senator Ronald Rice and former Governor Jon Corzine and several Counsel Generals from many Caribbean countries. Mr. Huggins is also the founder of National Staffing Associates which has been doing business for more than 20 years in Essex County, NJ providing staff for medical and other health care facilities.
Annually the group honors those who’ve helped foster an economic and
cultural growth and improvement by visionary business leaders who contribute and support many in New Jersey and its Caribbean American community and the greater Diaspora. The Gala Dinner will honor Senator Rice this year among the stalwarts who in public service in Essex County; along with East Orange General Hospital and others. Past honorees include Judge Julien Neals, Corporation Counsel for the City of Newark; as Corporation Counsel, Judge Neals manages attorneys who practice in areas, including Contracts & Legislation, Labor, Civil Litigation, Real Estate, Tax Appeals & Tax Abatements, Workers’ Compensation and Municipal Prosecutions and Trevor Layne MD, a leading oncologist in New Jersey. They were recognized for their strength, courage, vision and commitment in upholding a positive image in the community.
For tickets and to the gala and for more information about the organization; to join the mailing list and/or becoming a member of CABA, visit the website at http://www.cabanj.org/.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Losing another Stalwart as Dr. Marco Mason succumbs to Cancer...
PANAMA-BORN ACTIVIST PASSES ON
March 8, 2011
Dr. Mason was honored last year. (Hayden Roger Celestin image)
News Americas, Brooklyn, NY, Tues. Mar. 8, 2011: Respected Panamanian-born medical sociologist, educator and community activist, Dr. Marco Mason, has passed away after a battle with cancer, New Americas has learnt.
Mason died yesterday at a Brooklyn hospital after a battle with the disease.
Mason migrated to the U.S. from Panama in the early 1960s and became a key part of the Caribbean immigrant community in New York City, advising politicians, business owners and governmental agencies of the importance of the demographics. He later went on to found the Caribbean Women’s Health Association in 1981, along with Yvonne Graham, the current Brooklyn Deputy Borough president, and also the Panamanian Council of New York.
Mason also served on the faculty of a number of colleges and universities, including at the State University of New York at Stony Brook; School of Social Work, School of Medicine, and School of Health Management and Technology and was a technical expert in U.S. Immigration Policy. He was cited by the US Department of Justice for his “Outstanding Services In Assisting Immigrants With Status Adjustments.”
Mason also served as an invaluable adviser to numerous organizations and businesses and was also the first vice chairman of Brooklyn’s Community Board 9.
Funeral arrangements were yet to be announced as of press time.
Article Source
News Americas, Brooklyn, NY, Tues. Mar. 8, 2011: Respected Panamanian-born medical sociologist, educator and community activist, Dr. Marco Mason, has passed away after a battle with cancer, New Americas has learnt.
Mason died yesterday at a Brooklyn hospital after a battle with the disease.
Mason migrated to the U.S. from Panama in the early 1960s and became a key part of the Caribbean immigrant community in New York City, advising politicians, business owners and governmental agencies of the importance of the demographics. He later went on to found the Caribbean Women’s Health Association in 1981, along with Yvonne Graham, the current Brooklyn Deputy Borough president, and also the Panamanian Council of New York.
Mason also served on the faculty of a number of colleges and universities, including at the State University of New York at Stony Brook; School of Social Work, School of Medicine, and School of Health Management and Technology and was a technical expert in U.S. Immigration Policy. He was cited by the US Department of Justice for his “Outstanding Services In Assisting Immigrants With Status Adjustments.”
Mason also served as an invaluable adviser to numerous organizations and businesses and was also the first vice chairman of Brooklyn’s Community Board 9.
Funeral arrangements were yet to be announced as of press time.
Article Source
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Children of the Joshua House and Convalescent Home to be guests of OSHAG/C
January 28, 2011
By Natasha Waldron Anthony
Carol Bagot, President of the Organization for Social and Health Advancement in Guyana/Caribbean (OSHAG/C), and a medical mission will be heading to Guyana in April, and would take time out from their usual medical procedures at the New Amsterdam Hospital in Berbice to bring smiles to the faces of the children of the Joshua House orphanage and the Convalescent Home.
Meanwhile, this publication caught up with Dr Theophilus Lewis, Director of the Cancer Care Center at the Queens County Hospital. He has been on several missions to Guyana. Lewis has been a participant of the medical missions since 2002, and anticipates returning to Guyana.
“I think there’s a need. There’ll be a need for a while, and it’s really fulfilling when you see the smiles on the faces of the patients when you go back, especially the ones you operated on and are doing well,” Lewis said. He noted, too, that there is a growing number of organizations that are eager to partner with the mission. “There’s such a need (that) every time you go you find new opportunities to provide a service, new opportunities to make one’s life better.”
In the meantime, the organization is looking at ways to source grants so it can do more in the community here in the United States where it can assist women. Bagot said this is since “a lot of people are born here and still can’t access the care that they need, or even the resources. So we are hoping OSHAG/C can work with the entire community and help in structuring some resources that we can guide people along.”
OSHAG-C & Joshua House Head up Mission to Guyana
By Natasha Waldron Anthony
Carol Bagot, President OSHAG/C
Bagot told Guyana Times International that OSHAG/C will be hosting a party for the children of the two homes. “We have a lot of toys and books left over from the Christmas holiday, so we are doing that; and then there’s another project we have in mind in Guyana, and we’re definitely thinking about…a home for HIV children,” she said.
The New York-based non-profit organization has branched out from addressing only the needs of cancer patients to now address the needs of HIV patients. “I’m hoping that it comes to fruition. We haven’t approached the government as yet. We’ll have to talk to some heads of organizations and get some approval,” Trim-Bagot said.
Dr Theophilus Lewis, Director of the Cancer Care Center
Meanwhile, this publication caught up with Dr Theophilus Lewis, Director of the Cancer Care Center at the Queens County Hospital. He has been on several missions to Guyana. Lewis has been a participant of the medical missions since 2002, and anticipates returning to Guyana.“I think there’s a need. There’ll be a need for a while, and it’s really fulfilling when you see the smiles on the faces of the patients when you go back, especially the ones you operated on and are doing well,” Lewis said. He noted, too, that there is a growing number of organizations that are eager to partner with the mission. “There’s such a need (that) every time you go you find new opportunities to provide a service, new opportunities to make one’s life better.”
In the meantime, the organization is looking at ways to source grants so it can do more in the community here in the United States where it can assist women. Bagot said this is since “a lot of people are born here and still can’t access the care that they need, or even the resources. So we are hoping OSHAG/C can work with the entire community and help in structuring some resources that we can guide people along.”
OSHAG-C & Joshua House Head up Mission to Guyana
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Guyanese Spearheaded Group Profiled...
OSHAG/C’s call to serve cancer patients locally and in the Caribbean
January 13, 2011
By Natasha Waldron Anthony
OSHAG/C Vice President Lorna Welshman-Neblett
The Organization for Social Health and Advancement for Guyana and the Caribbean (OSHAG/C) is a New York-based non-profit organization that provides medical care and assistance in Guyana, primarily to cancer patients.
The organization recently re-incorporated its name to include the Caribbean. OSHAG/C’s Vice President, Lorna Welshman-Neblett, outlined to Guyana Times International her organization’s future plans, which include facilitating the treatment of cancer in the Caribbean for those people who are unable to access such treatment overseas. She claims that the organization’s long-term goal is to continue to remain dedicated to the empowerment of the Guyanese and Caribbean communities through health education and referral services, to focus on breast cancer, prostate cancer, and HIV information on prevention. The organization’s goal is to enhance the wellbeing of health and social standards in these communities. They are also embracing other forms of cancer as they arise.
OSHAG/C is also committed to continuing its medical missions to Guyana in April, following the success of the October 2010 mission. OSHAG/C’s doctors conducted 17 surgeries at the New Amsterdam Hospital. Welshman-Neblett says that the doctors are very anxious to return in April 2011 to continue their follow-up with patients. During this mission, OSHAG/C presented medical supplies and tools for the Operating Room at the New Amsterdam Hospital.
The organization works with cancer patients in Guyana who are discovered during the medical missions’ mammogram screenings. “Lots of them are usually at a serious stage, and most times it is difficult to save them. The ones in the early stages are treated, and follow-up checkups are conducted on the return mission trips. (In) most cases, we do our best to get them to New York for surgeries and chemo treatments.” The OSHAG/C’s vice president said, adding that the organization assists those patients with medication.
The missions are in collaboration with the Health Ministry in Guyana and the Regional Health Board. And the targeted location is the Berbice region. The organization is currently in the process of adopting the New Amsterdam Hospital as its mission’s project.
Welshman-Neblett added that the April 2009 mission covered a number of districts along the Berbice coast, with daily clinics conducted at numerous community health centers.
Other initiatives undertaken by the team in Guyana include assistance during the 2005 flood, a Continued Medical Education (CME) conference for local doctors, the Look Good/Feel Better programs for cancer survivors, and the cancer walk. In addition, Welshman-Neblett said, the organization joined with the Caribbean Medical Mission of New Jersey to host an educational forum called Adopt a Village. “We touched 15 villages at health centers, clinics and hospitals during this mission.”
The organization is munerated through fund-raising events during the year, but this has been affected by the economic downturn. The Vice President said that people are not spending to come out to dinner and dances, thus they have their own fund-raisers. However, they do not generate as much as in previous years. Welshman-Neblett stated that they have a job to do, and they will move forward, no matter what happens. She added that their doctors pay their own airfares and OSHAG/C provides transportation to and from the hospital, clinics and community health centres. OSHAG also provides their meals during their entire stay. A number of local persons are hired to cook and maintain the venue where meals are served.
In March 2011, OSHAG/C will host its spring season fundraiser; and at that event, several cancer survivors will be recognized in New York.
OSHAG/C was formed in 2001, and its first medical mission to Guyana materialised in 2002 with a group of three doctors, nurses and volunteers. Support was provided by the Ministry of Health and the president, the late Mrs Janet Jagan, who supported the cancer-fighting cause.
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