Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Struggles include everything from environmental hazards, to political oppression, lack of clean water, healthcare, education and work opportunity. As it turns out Mikey goes to Haiti regularly to assist in the Sustainable Development Project. Projects in the works include a student sponsorship program in which 32 children are given the opportunity to attend school, and a micro-loan/finance project which assists local farmers and crafts peoples with low interest finance for income generating activities.

On a lighter note: according to the Los Angeles Times, movie making is on the rise in Haiti. With an increased of 300% in the last 5 years, hopes are to transform this impoverished country into a cinema powerhouse – “Haitiwood “ – following the lead of India’s Baliwood. If this is true, we suspect Miss Madonne here just might be on her way to the glamorous life.

I’m not sure how to get involved in Haitian show business, but to learn more about the dire conditions in Haiti and how you can help, contact Michael directly at Schapiro@yahoo.com or log on to the website http://www.sustainablehaiti.org/