Presidente y Communidade

I return to France with blistered hands, sore legs and a big smile nestling among the memories of our Paraiso's 2005 parade. It was so great to see old friends and meet new members of our Paraiso family. Paraiso is the home of my samba heart and, although I am not close to you physically anymore, my heart.

I want you all to know how happy you made me feel and how welcome I felt to be back in my community. You all put so much work into our parade and to see the evolution of my Paraiso has been very emotional for me.

So for all of you, many whose names I don't even know. Thank you y vai com deus.

For my bateria NOTA 10/10 What can I say to you?

To Mestre Esteves who came to give us our heart and to his wonderful directors Damien, Steve, Dave, Ricco and Giselle..... you carried us through.

All your work and dedication was evident on Monday and the pure joy of being with you all has no comparison.

With my ears still ringing so nicely with Simone's caixa and Rico's surdo, we were next to each other all the way!!

And to all our bateria........How was that.

Wonderful to see the new members becoming a part of what the Paraiso bateria is. For us all to see again that there are no gringo versions of samba!!

Paraiso bateria is what bateria is about. We must never let that out of our hearts or minds. To be a part of Paraiso bateria is to be a sambista and part of a furious animal that bites hard, respect is earned!

I will miss you all.........until the next time

Howardxxxxxxxxx