A TRIBUTE TO STEVEN CHANG

 A TRIBUTE TO STEVEN CHANG

Steven Chang was a very simple and humble man who bubbled with energy, excitement, and a profound love for people. He was a people's person and freely mixed with all, regardless of status, or creed. Because of his magnetic disposition he was loved by all who came in contact with him.


Steven worked as a bus driver in Broward County, Florida. He migrated from Trinidad & Tobago to Florida, USA, then lived in New Jersey for a while before settling in Pembroke Pines, Florida.


His love for TNT culture, especially music and cuisine, made him exceptionally likable within his community, a  community which he ardently sought to promote in South Florida. Steven's exuberance in the midst of a session of parang music transformed him into a different state of existence, as he became one with musical instruments that are native to Trinidad and Tobago. He knew his music well and appreciated all genres but parang must have been his favorite because Christmastime when parang filled the air made him ecstatic. 


Food was his specialty! Steven loved cooking! At a moment's notice, he would muster pots and pans, spices and condiments, vegies and meat, gas cylinders and grill, and make the tastiest TNT cuisine, as well as other Caribbean and Chinese delicacies. He came out to Trinidadian and Guyanese events, indoors and outdoors, once they were accessible to him, during his off time from work, to grace us with his company, feeding us with a variety of his delicacies which he made, many of which were his own creations. 


As a community supporter he was selflessly committed. He freely gave his time and resources, materials and cash, without reservations, and shouldered responsibilities to ensure that everything was successful. Steven supported many community fundraisers. If he couldn't attend personally, he sent whatever it took to make the fundraiser successful.  


He was passionate about his church and traveled with his wife, Maggie, from his home in Fort Lauderdale to West Palm Beach to attend The St Patrick Episcopal Church. He invited us several times to church services, fundraisers and other social events that were held there.


His great joy was to get us to go to his home. He and his wife hosted us many times at his home, and when his residence became too small he rented the community hall. He was more happy than us. He was happy to be with us, to provide food, refreshments and music. 


I write this on behalf of many of us, because this is how we all feel. Steven not only touched us as individuals but made a positve impact on community organizations in South Florida. He was always good to: The Trinidad and Tobago Citizens Association of Palm Beach, Guyana Day USA, Sountecc BBQ, and The Trinidad and Tobago Diaspora. 

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