1. JUNE 2019
**Highlights of Activities for MAY 2019**
COURTESY CALL ON DIRECTOR OF PROTOCOL & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Consul General Mrs. Tassa Jean on May 6, 2019 paid a courtesy call on Mr. Desmond Alufohai, newly
appointed Director of Protocol & International Affairs – Miami International Airport - MIA.
The visit served a twofold purpose - Consul General Jean was briefed on the work of the Protocol Office at
Miami International Airport and ways in which the Office facilitates the provision of protocol services to
Saint Lucian VIPs Travelling through MIA.
The Consul General also took the opportunity during the visit to present to Mr. Alufohai, a token of
appreciation for his support and assistance extended to the Consulate during the staging of the Flag Raising
Ceremony held in Coral Gables on 22nd February, 2019, in celebration of Saint Lucia’s 40th Anniversary of
Independence.
2. MEETING WITH OFFICIALS ITICS USA
L-R: Albert Trouillot - ITICS USA, Mrs. Tassa Jean – Consul General of Saint Lucia, Mr. Alonso Campo Archibald -
Director & Managing Member of ITICS USA, Ms. Fercinta Louisy - Consul, Mrs. Lurline Magloire - ITICS USA
On May 14, 2019 a delegation from ITICS USA paid a courtesy call on Consul General Tassa Jean. Officials of
ITICS USA presented an overview of the company and the services offered which include technology solutions
communications, information technology and alternative energy services. Discussions were also held on
investments opportunities in Saint Lucia in the areas of information and communication technology, public
safety and security.
ITICS has offices in Bogota, Colombia and here in Miami, Florida.
During the meeting, the officials from ITICS extended an invitation to CG Jean to visit and tour the office and
studio of Bonjour America Media Group, a joint venture partnership with ITICS USA. The company, which
boast a full-service film facility is based in Miami.
L-R: Consul General Mrs. Tassa Jean and Mr. Victor Romero, CEO and President of Bonjour America
Media Group
3. THE WORLD TRADE CENTER (WTC) AND THE BEACON COUNCIL CELEBRATE
WORLD TRADE MONTH
The Miami-Dade Beacon Council in May, teamed-up
with the World Trade Center (WTC) Miami to promote
International Trade during the entire month of May.
Under the leadership of the World Trade Center Miami,
the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise Florida
Inc. and the World Trade Week Committee, the original
week long observance has grown to a month long
celebration with over 20 events held throughout
Florida.
Florida World Trade Month brings together over 2,000
Florida business executives during the month of May to
celebrate international trade.
In Miami, the Committee developed a series of events
designed to assist small and medium size companies
enter the international trade arena, expand their
business and identify new clients. The ultimate
objective is to promote Miami and Florida as the
“Trade & Logistics Hub of the Americas”.
The first event was a Breakfast Kickoff on May 1st,
2019 held at the Miami Airport and Convention Center.
The event featured two panels; one on compliance and the other on the experiences of key US trading
partners – Canada, Spain and Chile and their efforts to enhance overall levels of trade with the United States.
Photograph above - Trade Commissioners from the Consulate Generals of Dominican Republic, Spain and
Canada discussing the experiences of their respective countries as it relates to trading with the United
States
L-R: Fercinta Louisy, Stanley Rigaud, Director of Economic Development, International Programs, the
Beacon Council, Consul General of Saint Lucia Tassa Jean
4. SPECIAL RECEPTION HONORING THE CONSULAR CORPS AND TRADE
REPRESENTATIVES IN MAIMI
Newly appointed Consuls General, Consuls and Trade Representatives
On May 23, 2019 a special reception was hosted by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce to bid farewell
to esteemed Corps members who served in Miami and were either returning to their capitals or moving on
to new assignments. The event also recognized newly appointed Consuls General and Trade Representatives
in Miami.
Consul General Tassa Jean accompanied by Ms. Fercinta Louisy, Consul, attended the event both having
recently assumed their positions at the Consulate General of Saint Lucia.
The event was held at the Penthouse at River Wharf in Miami.
5. GABLES GLOBAL GROOVE AND CONSULAR RECEPTION
MAY 29, 2019
On May 29, 2019 Consul General Tassa Jean and Consul Fercinta Louisy joined other members of the Consular
Corps and International Business Community from South Florida at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Coral Gables,
for the Chamber’s Gables Global Groove and Consular Corps Reception. The event presented an opportunity
for global networking and international fellowship. Coral Gables boost a diverse and vibrant international
business community and Consular Corp community. Officials from the Consulate took the opportunity to
meet with representatives from several businesses based in the City.
Consul General Tassa Jean & Consul Fercinta Louisy (center front row) in photo above with members of the
of the South Florida Consular Corps.
6. FLORIDA RESIDENT DONATES HOSPITAL SUPPLIES TO GOVERNMENT OF
SAINT LUCIA
On May 16, 2019 the Consulate General of Saint Lucia received a quantity of Hospital Supplies from North
Miami resident, Ms. Gwendolyn McDonald.
Ms. McDonald is employed in the medical services sector and spends her free time purchasing overstock
medical supplies and collecting items for the purpose of donating to health facilities overseas. She also
engages in many not for profit activities which benefit the homeless and indigent in her community.
Ms. McDonald is also an avid Christian, who dedicates her time to giving back to church and community.
Ms. Fercinta Louisy and Mrs. Barbara Montoute of the Consulate General of Saint Lucia received the supplies
on behalf of the Government and people of Saint Lucia which included a quantity of wheelchairs, walkers
with seats, walking canes, pillow cases, linen, shower chairs, etc.
Top Ms. Fercinta Louisy & Ms. Mc Donald; Top Left Mrs. Barbara Montoute & Ms. McDonald; Bottom –
Some of the donated items
7. REGISTRAR OF CARIBBEAN EXAMINATION COUNCIL (CXC) MEETS CONSULS
GENERAL IN MIAMI
On May 17, 2019 Consul General of Barbados, The Hon. Neval Greenidge hosted a meeting of Consuls General
of the CARICOM Consular Corps in Miami with officials from the Caribbean Examination Council.
The Registrar of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) Mr. Glenroy Cumberbatch, engaged the CARICOM
Consular Corps representatives in discussions on an initiative to offer CXC qualifications as a possible solution
for raising academic achievement of Caribbean students in the US Eastern seaboard.
Mr. Cumberbatch presented a White Paper which discussed the potential benefits to the Florida Department
of Education and the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) in establishing a closer working relationship,
whereby students in the State of Florida are able to write CXC examinations at the Caribbean Secondary
Examination Certificate (CSEC)” level. The Paper also focused on the interrelationships between the Florida
Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) which was replaced by the Florida Standard Assessment (FSA) in
2014, and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, considered central to
establishing a working relationship.
The meeting was also informed of plans by CXC officials to meet officials from the Johnson and Wales
University to discuss scholarships opportunities for eligible candidates.
In Pic Left: Sharon Armstrong-Mullah, Director Corporate Services, Consul General, Mrs. Tassa Jean, Dianne
Perrotte, Deputy Consul General – Grenada, Consul Fercinta Louisy
Right: Mr. Glenroy Cumberbatch, Registrar CXC, Dr. Wayne Wesley, Director of Operations, CXC
(Missing in photo) The Hon. Neval Greenidge, Consul General – Barbados & Mr. Kent Hippolyte, Advisor to
CARICOM Consular Corps
8. WORLD TRADE CENTER – MIAMI CELEBRATES
INTERNATIONAL TRADE DAY 2019
The World Trade Center Miami and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) celebrated International Trade
Day on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at Cruise Terminal D, Port Miami.
Over 300 International executives representing more than 150 companies attended the prestigious event.
On hand to respond to questions were top officials from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other
participating government agencies such as the US Food and Drug Administration, the United States
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Plant Protection and Quarantine, the
United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Consumer Product Safety Commission, etc. The event showcased the
importance of international trade, logistics, services and port operations to the South Florida economy. The
event also served to promote Miami and Florida as the “Trade & Logistics Hub of the Americas.”
In photos above - Ms. Fercinta Louisy, Consul, Consulate General of Saint Lucia meeting with officials from
the US Customs and Border Protection (Consumer Products and Mass Merchandising Center and the
Ariculture and Prepared Products Center) and the US Food and Drug Administration.
9. We Are Here To Serve You!!
In this issue we focus on LOST AND STOLEN PASSPORTS.
Your passport can be considered LOST if it was destroyed or misplaced.
What to do if Passport is Lost or Stolen.
1. Report the matter to the nearest precinct/police station
2. Obtain an official Police Report or Case Number
3. Appear in person for an Interview at Consulate General of Saint Lucia in Miami or New York or
Embassy of Saint Lucia to the United States in Washington, D.C.
4. Appear in person to Complete an Affidavit for Lost Passport at Consulate General of Saint Lucia in
Miami or New York or Embassy of Saint Lucia to the United States in Washington, D.C.
5. Complete Passport Application Form
DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED WITH COMPLETED APPLICATION FORM:
1. Notarized Passport Photos
2. Birth Certificate
3. Marriage Certificate (If your name has been changed)
4. Official Police Report
Upon completion of the Application Form, applicants can either submit their application through the Embassy
in Washington, D.C. or the Consulate General of Saint Lucia in New York.
OFFICE MONEY ORDER
PAYABLE TO
AMOUNT
(Separate Money
Orders)
ADDRESS
Consulate General of
Saint Lucia – New York
Consulate General of
Saint Lucia
1. US$130.00
2. US$15.00
Consulate General of Saint Lucia
800 2nd
Avenue
5th
Floor, NY 10017, USA
Tel: (212) 697-9360
Embassy of Saint Lucia –
Washington, DC
Embassy of Saint Lucia 1. US$120.00
2. US$25.00
Embassy of Saint Lucia
1629 K Street, NW
Suite 1250
Washington, DC 20006, USA
Tel: (202) 364-6792
Completed application must be shipped via FedEx
10. Hurricane Season 2019 – Is Here!!
For many of us the Atlantic Hurricane Season brings an unsettling feeling of fear and anxiety. Understandably
so, as past experiences of devastating storms linger in our minds especially if you, your family or friends were
directly affected.
It has been said that the 2019 Hurricane Season will not be as robust but who really knows? Therefore, we
must all take precautions to protect our lives and property at this time.
The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially began on June 1 and last until November 30! It is Here!!!! Typically
the busiest time is between August and October with September being the climatological peak of the season.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in a release of May 23, 2019 “a
near-average hurricane season is likely in the Atlantic basin”, which includes the North Atlantic Ocean, the
Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
Forecasters have predicted there is a 70% probability of nine to fifteen named storms, four to eight hurricanes
and two to four major hurricanes (Category 3 or stronger storms).
Hurricane Safety Tips
Every family should have an Emergency Plan – Make ONE TODAY!!!
BEFORE IT HITS
Coastal residents should form evacuation plans before a warning is issued to identify a safe shelter
and a route to get there.
Prepare for a hurricane by stocking up on emergency supplies including food, water, protective
clothing, medications, batteries, flashlights, important documents, road maps and a full tank of
gasoline.
DURING THE STORM
As a storm unfolds, evacuees should listen to local authorities on radio or television. Evacuation
routes often close as a storm develops. Dedicated professionals and improved technology have
made hurricane forecasting more accurate than ever before – but it’s far from precise.
If forced to weather a storm, get inside the most secure building possible and stay away from
windows.
Remember that a lull often signifies the storm’s eye – not its end. Anyone riding out a hurricane
should wait for authorities to announce that the danger has passed.
12. **News from Saint Lucia**
{Extracted from Facebook Page - The Office of Prime Minister}
New Golf Resort breaks ground in Saint Lucia
On June 14, 2019 a ground breaking
ceremony was held for the construction of
Cabot Saint Lucia – a new Golf Resort at
Point Hardy, Cap Estate. Cabot Saint Lucia
will feature an 18-hole golf course called
Cabot Point. Resort amenities are expected
to include a clubhouse, a 50-room boutique
hotel, three restaurants, retail shops, a spa
and upscale homes ranging from $760,000
to $10-million.
The golf course will be designed by World
Golf Hall of Fame member Ben Crenshaw
and his design partner Bill Coore, whose U.S.
firm has drafted some of the world’s top
modern courses and is set to open in 2021.
***
The National Apprenticeship Programme and National Conservation Authority Team Up with
ALGAS Organics
The National Apprenticeship Programme St. Lucia in
collaboration with The National Conservation Authority
(NCA) and ALGAS Organics have commenced training
sessions for approximately 120 individuals on the proper
method of handling the sargassum seaweed for
manufacturing as well as for disposal.
The 120 individuals registered with the National
Apprenticeship Programme Office were chosen from
communities of Dennery, Vieux Fort, Praslin and Micoud
which are adversely affected by the influx of the sargassum
Seaweed.
The training session will work towards preparing individuals
from the affected communities to participate in the
implementation phase which will run for 9 months.
The first training session took place on Wednesday 29th May
2019. Trainees from the community of Dennery will
commence on Monday, June 2nd 2019.
13. *Special Announcements/Activities/News of Interest to the Diaspora*
In our quest to bring you information on the different Saint Lucian Associations in the diaspora and how you
can get involved, Nouvelle Nous has undertaken the task of interviewing the Presidents of various
Associations, that fall under the jurisdiction of the Consulate General of Saint Lucia in Miami. In our last issue,
we focussed on the President of the The St. Lucia Association of Georgia.
In this issue, we are pleased to introduce you to the President of the The St. Lucia Association of South
Florida Inc.
Meet Monica Victor – President, St Lucia Association of South Florida!
Nouvelle Nous met with Monica for a one on one interview to get
first hand, what drew this Journalist and budding Novelist to
The St Lucia Association of South Florida Inc.
Having moved to the USA from her homeland Saint Lucia with her
family some eighteen (18) years ago to pursue higher education,
Monica in her words “was also searching to fill the void that was
missing ever since leaving my beloved homeland St. Lucia.”
The St. Lucia Association of South Florida Inc. was without a doubt,
an obvious choice, as her family were avid supporters of the
Association. Meeting and socializing with the group brought a
sense of belonging as they shared similar culture to what she left
behind in Saint Lucia.
Monica, took over the helm of St Lucia Association of South
Florida in 2015. Before assuming the position of President, she
served in the capacity of Secretary and Vice President of this 33
year old organization. The St. Lucia Association of South Florida
Inc. has as its main function: (1) To promote and maintain sociability and culture among its members (2) To
provide for the voluntary, mutual assistance, enjoyment, entertainment and improvement of its members
socially, charitably, physically, morally and otherwise.
When asked by Nouvelle Nous “Do you think that your organization is fulfilling its objectives?” With sparkles
in her eyes, she was emphatic in her response. “Yes - We endeavor to celebrate holidays that coincide with
our culture -- we celebrate with Saint Lucia especially when they celebrate especially Jounen Kweyol and
Independence. Celebrating such events with people with whom we can relate, foster a heightened sense of
belonging and pride.”
As President, Monica has led her association in staging many successful events. Each year the Association
host the annual Jounen Kweyol activities, a popular event with nationals, which has also attained a high level
of success as a fundraising activity for the Association. The Association was also actively involved in the 40th
Independence celebrations which saw a collaborative effort of the Associations in Florida with the Consulate
General of Saint Lucia.
Notwithstanding the two above mentioned events, The St Lucia Association of South Florida Inc. also hosts a
number of events throughout the year, such as the Annual Christmas Party, Easter picnics, dances as well as
momentous celebrations like Mother’s Day & Father’s Day activities. These activities are all in an effort to
maintain social interactions among the Saint Lucian community and to raise funds for the Association’s
14. initiatives which benefit targeted groups in Saint Lucia. Some of the groups and organizations which have
benefited from funds raised by The St Lucia Association of South Florida Inc. are:
The Rainbow Bridge Project in Dennery
The Soufriere Special Education Rehabilitation Center
St. Lucy’s Home
St Jude’s Hospital
Mon Repos Combined School
Methodist Primary School
Ti Rocher Combined School
Despite maintaining a full-time job, Monica is determined to raise the profile of the Association in the
diaspora. To this end, she is prepared to collaborate with other Caribbean Associations to help achieve that
goal. After all she says, “We are one Caribbean”. To keep her culture alive, to celebrate the accomplishments
of her fellow Saint Lucians and to raise the visibility of her beloved island home, Monica recently launched a
magazine aptly titled Manmay LaKay Magazine. Monica’s has also set her sights on one day facilitating the
ownership of a building/permanent home for The St Lucia Association of South Florida Inc.
Highlights of some of the Activities of St Lucia Association of South Florida
40th
Anniversary of Independence Celebrations
Activities of St Lucia Association of South Florida
If you are in South Florida & Saint Lucian get involve by contacting
floridalucians@gmail.com
15. Saint Lucia Government to Recognize/Honor People of the Diaspora
The Government of Saint Lucia through the office of Diaspora Affairs has initiated a program to
recognize/honor outstanding Saint Lucians in the diaspora.
Affiliate members as well as Non-Affiliated members of the St. Lucian Overseas Associations throughout the
world have been requested to submit nominations.
Awards will be given in the following areas:
Business in the countries nationals have migrated to
Education
Civic Society
Youth Development
Founders of Saint Lucian Associations/Groups
Any other noteworthy areas
It is expected that the Awardees will be recognized at the July 2020 Union of St Lucian Overseas Association’s
Biennial Convention in Calgary, Canada.
Nominations should be submitted to:
The Ambassador, Diaspora Affairs
Office of The Prime Minister
Greaham Louisy Building
Waterfront
Castries
SAINT LUCIA
16. a Signature Event by Children of Helen Alliance Inc.
All proceeds to benefit S.M.A.R.T FUTURE INITIATIVE
FOR UNDERPRIVILEDGED CHILDREN IN SAINT LUCIA
17. Chef Nina Compton featured in Louisiana’s First Newsletter published by
The First Lady of Louisiana, Donna Hutto Edwards
Chef Nina Compton Chef/Owner, Compère Lapin and Bywater American Bistro
Winner of the 2018 James Beard Awards “Best Chef: South”
and one of Food & Wine magazine’s “Best New Chefs 2017”,
Nina Compton is Chef/Owner of award-winning restaurant
Compère Lapin in New Orleans’ Warehouse District. Her
second restaurant venture, Bywater American Bistro (BABs), is
located in New Orleans’ “Sliver by the River” Bywater
neighborhood.
Born and raised in St. Lucia, Nina grew up with the flavors and
beauty of the Caribbean. Upon completion of secondary
school in England, she returned home where she decided to
pursue her dream of becoming a chef. Her wary but supportive
parents arranged an internship with a friend’s hotel in Jamaica
where she fell in love with the creativity and camaraderie of
the kitchen. Leaving the cozy, warm winters of the Caribbean,
Nina chose to move to chilly Hyde Park, NY to study at The
Culinary Institute of America.
Graduating in 2001 from America’s finest culinary school, Nina
began her professional journey at Daniel in New York City,
working and continuing her culinary education alongside
world renowned chef/restaurateur Daniel Boulud and his
team.
After moving to Miami, she continued to work with the best, joining the crews of Norman Van Aken at the
original/iconic Norman’s then Philippe Ruiz at Palme d’Or at the historic Biltmore Hotel. Eventually Nina
moved to Casa Casuarina, a private club and boutique hotel in Miami Beach where she rose from Sous Chef
to Executive Chef of the small yet highly acclaimed property.
With the excitement of the 2008 reopening of the refurbished Fontainebleau Miami Beach, combined with
the chance to work with Scott Conant at Scarpetta, Nina leapt at the chance to join the pre-opening team as
Sous Chef and went on to be appointed Chef de Cuisine, where she earned raves and accolades. During a star
turn on BRAVO’s acclaimed cooking competition show, Top Chef New Orleans, on which she was a finalist
and fan favorite, Nina fell in love with the Crescent City. An opportunity with Provenance Hotels lured Nina
to New Orleans where she opened her first solo restaurant, Compère Lapin, at the Old No. 77 Hotel &
Chandlery in the Warehouse District.
Since opening in June 2015, Compère Lapin has received critical acclaim including Eater National’s “Best
Restaurants in America 2017”; a rave review in The New York Times, and Top 10 Winner of Playboy’s Best
New Bars in America 2016. At Compère Lapin, the talented toque creates robust dishes that meld the flavors
of her Caribbean upbringing and love for French and Italian cuisine, while highlighting the Gulf and Louisiana’s
beautiful indigenous ingredients.
Compton’s highly anticipated Bywater American Bistro – which opened in March 2018 – features
contemporary American fare, showcasing the chef’s culinary craftmanship while focusing on seasonal
ingredient-driven cuisine in a casual, convivial setting.
A woman of many hats, Nina Compton also serves as the Culinary Ambassador of St. Lucia.
Source:
19. FUND RAISER – JOIN THE FUN
St. Lucia Association of Georgia
Stay connected
VOL, 3
CONTACT
Consulate General of Saint Lucia
2 Alhambra Plaza, Suite 850Coral Gables, FL 33134
Tel: (786) 502-3351 Fax: (786)502-3356 Email: st.lucia.consulate.miami@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/Consulate-General-of-Saint-Lucia-in-Miami-1626087920786872/