by Jean Lowrie-Chin
Column published in Jamaica Observer 13 May 2019
We have a very hardworking police force subject to tough regulations though there are the few who continue to undermine the good work of their colleagues. The Force has been working with various community outreach programmes even as they fight crime. We should take seriously the recommendation of Montego Bay Mayor Homer Davis for a more streamlined approach by the various agencies for social intervention programmes in the Western Jamaica. The police alone cannot do it.
Column published in Jamaica Observer 13 May 2019
"My cousin said it was the first time he felt like his own man," declared my friend, explaining that her cousin was visiting Jamaica for the first time since childhood for a family funeral. He shared with her the lengths he went through to make himself appear non-threatening in many situations in the US. Even in the cold, he was afraid to wear a hoodie and he would ensure that he left a lot of personal space between himself and others. Yes indeed, when it comes to racial harmony, Jamaica is number one in the world, despite the few incidents of 'shade-ism'.
We are a health-conscious country too. We know we must have a certificate of vaccination before we can enroll our children in school, and we have heard myriad stories of Jamaicans in the diaspora returning home for surgery as they find our doctors and nurses exceptional.
We have a free press – number eight in the world – and engaged leaders in both Government and Opposition. Since 1944, the results of our General Elections have been accepted by all and our electoral system is so efficient that the EOJ team has been invited to assist with elections in several other countries.
 |
| Recipients of The National Chorale of Jamaica Medal of Excellence after the presentation of their Awards by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen at Kings House on Sunday, May 5. Recipients are (from 2nd right) Carole Elaine Reid, Soprano; Marilyn Brice MacDonald, Contralto; Rev. Easton Hugh Lee, Dramatic Artist, Communication Professional; and Winston Alexander Ewart, Musical Director, National Chorale of Jamaica. Also joining the Awardees are (left) Christopher Samuda, Chairman, NCOJ and (right) Donna Parchment, Political Ombudsman. |
When it comes to entertainment, Jamaica has offerings to suit every taste – from classical and pop concerts, theatre, dances, and top-notch sporting events. Last Saturday we had an enjoyable 'Ladies Day' at Caymanas Park courtesy of SVL and sponsors Rum Fire. Both companies were represented by top professional ladies: Ann-Dawn Young Sang, Heather Goldson, Gail Abrahams and Christelle Harris. Yes, Jamaican women are rising through the ranks.
Yes, we have a lot going for us, and a lot more to do. The ease and comfort the young visitor felt here in Jamaica is motivation to work even harder for this blessed spot on God's earth.
Jamaica's digital journey
We received some good news from Minister of Energy Technology and Science Fayval Williams at last week's Global Digital Marketing Summit held by Creative Brands and Concepts. She said the Digital Data Bill was a high priority for her government as they build 'a tech-enabled society'. She disclosed that through the Universal Service Fund, her Ministry had been able to establish 300 community access points and seven public Wi-Fi hotspots, with four more to come. She said she was looking forward to islandwide broadband services for high schools, libraries, post offices and police stations.
It was heartening to hear that the long awaited GovNet may finally be a reality. Minister Williams said that this would provide shared services among Government ministries with a data centre, GovCloud, GovTalk and GovMail.
Aileen Corrigan, CEO of Trend Media identified the biggest hurdle to bringing business leaders into the digital space, as fear. She said it was important to "change the mindset – be open to change." She said it was alright "to admit that you are afraid and ask questions."
Aileen said it was important to stay in close touch with younger team members: "Find out what is trending … how do we get our people to be upskilled?" She advised, "Get on to the platforms, follow influencers and trendsetters, connect with your audience."
GG lauds National Chorale legends
Last Sunday, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen presented medals of Excellence to four outstanding Jamaicans for their contribution to our National Chorale: Marilyn Brice MacDonald, Carole Elaine Reid, Winston Alexander Ewart and Rev. Easton Hugh Lee. Each of these individuals has had superlative accomplishments and have received multiple awards and honours.
Here are brief excerpts from their citations:
"Marilyn Brice MacDonald who remains one of the longest-serving and still vibrant member of the Jamaica Folk Singers… Marilyn Brice MacDonald has popularized Jamaican folk singing for generations … Blessed with a truly rich, distinctive, Contralto, Marilyn has been a soloist at St Luke's Church, Cross Roads where she worships .. Marilyn not only sang with the National Chorale but also was an active Board Member who assisted in the smooth running of its affairs; no doubt her versatility enhanced by her banking career."
Carole Reid: "From her local church hall to New York's legendary Carnegie Hall, and many points in between, the voice of Carole Elaine Reid, Soprano has reverberated far and wide and has served to remind of the true breadth of Jamaican musical excellence…Not only has Carole's voice taken her around the world, it has brought many of the world's best to collaborate with her, including the great American diva Kathleen Battle, whom she coached in a folk song of her choice – 'Linstead Market' – when performed at King's House in 1999." On a personal note, I have seen Carole's excellence up close, having partnered with her for performances in the early 'Powerful Women' concerts. She is one of the most generous persons I know, lending her talent to many national and charitable events.
Winston Ewart: "In 1972, he began his long and fruitful association with the National Chorale of Jamaica, as one of the Founding Members ..In addition to singing and accompanying the group on piano, he played cello in the orchestra for numerous major works performed by the Chorale .. In November 2016, Winston was inducted into the Caribbean Hall of Fame for Outstanding Achievement in the field of the Performing Arts by the Caribbean Development for the Arts, Sports & Culture Foundation in association with the Caribbean Community and UNESCO .. one of numerous accolades and honours .. he continues to serve as Musical Director of the National Chorale of Jamaica; as Organist, Choir Master and Accompanist of Christ Church Anglican (Vineyard Town) for over 50 years."
Rev Easton Lee: "His greatest contributions have been made in the dramatic sphere. As a playwright-director, "The Rope and the Cross" – which marks its 40th anniversary in 2019 – remains his crowning achievement .. Lee has channeled his interest - and his pen - in other areas; in poetry .. social commentary .. and in the gentle yet humorous and diverse reflections on his grocery shop childhood .. Rev. Lee, being the intrepid, diverse, artistic person also found time to be Chairman of the National Chorale of Jamaica, when it was undergoing some changes in management and held it together in his calm and unsullied manner, getting the job done without ruffling any feathers."
No comments:
Post a Comment