Jonique Gaynor, Staff Reporter

Residents of Standpipe in St.Andrew, said the new U.S. Embassy was the best thing that had ever happened to them.

When THE STAR visited the community, the smiles of the men clearly indicated just how happy they were to have the building located in their midst at Liguanea. Residents said the embassy had presented a host of 'hustling' opportunities, and from the looks of things, they are determined to capitalise on it.

One resident, Mr. B, spoke for all when he said, "A di best ting fada God eva do fi wi. God bless America. A di best ting dem do fi bring di embassy right inna di place, so wi can eat a likkle food ."

Rohan, is one of three men who offer 'embassy parking'. Cars are parked in lanes near the embassy, in front of wholesales and on a narrow strip of concrete across from the embassy. Rohan told THE STAR that the embassy has united the community. He cited the willingness of a shop owner to dedicate a large space in front of her business for parking, as evidence of this united effort.

Good business

Parking is good business and the men sometimes get a 'bonus'. "Wi seh a $100, but sometimes some people gi wi all $500. U know, di happiness when dem get di visa." The men say they offer a 'full service', as clients can also get their cars washed if they wish. "The parking is for the public," he said, "Is not a bad man ting." It is also hard work for these hustlers, as the day starts from them at 4 a.m. and only ends when the embassy is closed.

But parking is not the only service offered by these enterprising residents. The STAR was informed of the 'restroom service' where visitors to the embassy can use a "proper, fully tiled" bathroom for only $20-$30, with all the amenities included.

Apart from these new 'hustlings' there are some old ones that have been brought over from the Embassy's previous Oxford road location. There is the 'express photo' service, where pictures are taken and printed within three minutes, at a cost of $350. If persons are turned back because of improper photographs, they can simply head across the street and get new ones.

Then there are also taxi operators, who have seemingly adopted the embassy as their base. TheSTAR observed a few of them diligently patrolling the entrance.

HAPPY VENDORS

Not to be left out are the vendors who seem happy that visa seekers have to stand in the sun. This way, they are guaranteed steady clientele for their juices, 'visa water' and coconut water. A van, parked across from the embassy, is stacked with coconuts for anyone who wants a quick refresher.

Phones and electronic items are not allowed inside the embassy and there are at least three individuals who have made sure that no one will have to leave their things unguarded. One woman approached THE STAR and asked, "My friend, u want somebody keep yu phone fi yu?" It costs $50 to store an umbrella and $100 for a phone. The storage service is a structured system where a client is given a ticket for his/her item.

The Standpipe residents are not selfish with their new 'goldmine'. Not all the 'hustlers' are from the community. In fact, some come from as far as Waltham Park and Maxfield Avenue just to get a slice of the pie.

Life is better than it's ever been for some residents and they plan to share this with their children. The 'parking lot' guys said a portion of their daily earnings goes towards a treat they are planning for the summer. "Every day wi handle money ennuh baby, nuh care how small it may be. Wi wouldn't mind dem open Saturday and Sunday too. Wi kids can eat every day, mi can drink a beer if mi want. Mi nuh haffi wait fi nuh money go bank, a jus instant cash and it legal, nobody nah get hurt."

NO PROBLEMS

When THE STAR spoke to the police they were aware of the hustlings, but they said they have not encountered any problems. Detective Sergeant Quincy Sterling, sub-officer in charge of the Matilda's Corner Police Station, said he hasn't really received any complaints and he explained that the area was regularly patrolled by officers.

Attempts to get a comment from the US Embassy were unsuccessful, as the responses to the questions sent were not received in time for publication.