PNP’s turn to ‘Light a candle, sing a Sankey’

 Jamaica Observer column published MON 19 July 2021

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

It was ironical that just a few days after a relative abroad shared an inspiring YouTube video on National Hero and founder of the PNP Norman Washington Manley, news came that the Chairman and Vice Presidents of the Party, and President of the PNPYO had resigned from their positions. The video, produced by YeKengalé, and featuring interviews with PNP elders P.J. Patterson, Burchell Whiteman and Arnold Bertram, spoke of the perseverance and integrity of N.W Manley. They described his collegiality with JLP leader Sir Alexander Bustamante whom he supported even after Manley’s defeat in the 1962 General Elections. Significantly, former JLP leader Bruce Golding also spoke of NW’s dedication to the development of our Constitution.

So here we have a political party founded by this shining Jamaican, now foundering as positions become hardened. In Saturday’s front page Observer lead by Arthur Hall, he noted, “Last month, the party went public with news of its unity push with the person given the job to lead the charge, former General Secretary Maxine Henry-Wilson, warning the Comrades that without unity the PNP would be in serious trouble.

 “‘The public can't believe that you have the capacity to lead if internally you can't even talk to each other properly. So, the work that the party has to do, and is doing, has to be brought to the fore, and the disunity has to take a back seat...It is not going to disappear, but we all need to have a larger purpose around which we are revolving,’ Henry-Wilson told the Jamaica Observer”. 

Our shop was blessed to serve the then Electoral Advisory Committee led by William Chin See with membership including Mrs Henry-Wilson of the PNP and Ryan Peralto of the JLP. I recall the strong arguments as they discussed revisions to the Representation of the People Act, but the respect and humour of mature deliberations.

Despite Mrs Henry-Wilson’s wise counsel, it seems that the damage has gone too deep to resolve internal differences. Arthur Hall quotes from Krystal Tomlinson’s resignation letter: “I will not continue to serve where there is a wavering commitment to integrity; where parish and region chairmen engineer and facilitate fraudulent behaviour and have the audacity to parade themselves as 'untouchables' because of their proximity to the leadership of the party.”

It is a crying shame that such accusations are being levelled at the leaders of the Party that Norman Manley built. May they find a way to heal – in the words of the late Edward Seaga when he dealt with a rift in his Party, “Light a candle, sing a Sankey and find your way back home”.

PM Holness on New York TV

Meanwhile Prime Minister Andrew Holness, the youngest Jamaican elected to that Office, had an excellent interview with New York Fox 5 host Rosanna Scotto last week, organised by Jamaica Consul General Alsion Wilson. We are grateful to Scotto for her kind words on Jamaica: “I can't wait to come back and visit – the entertainment, the people, the food, the water, the weather – everything is just about perfect there.” She noted about PM Holness, “through compassionate dialogue and inclusiveness, he is ushering in a new generation of transformative development and leadership.”

In response to her question on our state of affairs, he noted, “I'm very proud of the fact that Jamaica has resolved its management of its economic affairs and I believe we are on a very good course having gone through several IMF programmes to entrench this kind of fiscal stability and fiscal prudence... We are now on a trajectory for growth… We are creating the environment regulatory and otherwise …  we are also tackling other institutional and development issues such as strengthening our bureaucracy to deal with things such as corruption, but at the same time to become more efficient.”

 He noted the Administration’s heavy investment in national security, “long term investments which will have signal effects on the transformation of our country”. He disclosed that his Government “in a few months … will roll out some transformative policies for the education sector.”

The PM referred to the Government’s work towards containment of Covid, explaining our protocols for testing and quarantine, and our ‘resilient corridor’ for visitors. “We expect that in August we should have a sufficient supply of vaccines to start widespread and mass vaccinations,” he said.

In response to his thoughts on the situation in Haiti, he remarked, “It saddens me. I knew President Moïse personally … my heart goes out to his wife. I hope she is recovering speedily … We want to see stability and peace for the people of Haiti.”   

Floods in Europe

The heaviest rainfall in a century broke the banks of rivers in Germany and Belgium and a dike in Holland, leaving over 120 persons dead and scores missing. It was heartbreaking to see the reports homes swept away and of small business owners who had just readied their shops for reopening after the Covid closure, only to see them destroyed by powerful currents. Leaders have ascribed this catastrophe to climate change. We send our sympathy to these members of the European Union, which has been incredibly supportive of Jamaica.

Best wishes Observer colleagues

Jamaica Observer welcomes back the steady, sharp Julian Richardson as their Online Content Manager. The experienced Dashan Hendricks has been appointed Business Editor while ace writer Andrew Laidley will be Senior Business Reporter.  Earlier this year, former Advertising Manager Natalie Chin, a veritable dynamo, was appointed Deputy Managing Director. It is great to see the focus of our media houses on the strengthening of their teams – no wonder Jamaica has been in the top ten countries for press freedom for many years.

Concacaf Gold Cup, Olympics

Last week we cheered our Reggae Boyz as they triumphed over Suriname and Guadeloupe, making their way into the quarter-finals for the Concacaf Gold Cup. They enjoy the keen guidance of coach Theodore “Tappa” Whitmore who sent us into a state of euphoria with his two goals in the 1998 World Cup. We wish them well in their continued quest this week.

Meanwhile, our athletes are making their way to Japan for the Olympics which will have its official opening this Thursday. We have high hopes for our stars and aspirants, as they compete in the guarded environment of Japan’s state of emergency. There will be no spectators in the stands but we ask them to imagine the loud cheers of their faithful Jamaican fans who will be with them every breathless step of the way.

Get that precious Covid vaccine

 

Observer column published Mon 15 April 2021

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

The Ministry of Health’s Covid vaccine blitz continues islandwide this week. Meanwhile the anti-vaccine WhatsApp messages continue to make the rounds. Those of us who know of the agony of Covid sufferers should make a special effort to convince others to take it. Explain to them that they would be alone with no access to their family members as they would have to be isolated. Explain to them the ‘long Covid’ condition where symptoms can persist for months.

Last Wednesday and Thursday saw a total of 30 deaths from Covid. In a country of 3 million, this is an alarming number. It has got to the point where most of us know someone who has succumbed to the disease. The Ministry of Health and Wellness website, moh.gov.jm has an efficient registration system.

Younger folks have been helping seniors to register, and the age eligibility has been lowered to 60 years and over. Teachers, Immigration Officers and workers in the hospitality industry are eligible for the vaccine. I do hope my media colleagues will also be allowed to take the vaccine. Thank goodness Dashan Hendricks is fully recovered, Dionne Jackson-Miller is recovering while Dr Orville Taylor is struggling with this debilitating virus.

I keep hearing of the courtesy and kindness of our health workers at vaccination centres. A senior who was vaccinated at the Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre (MAWC) at UWI remarked on the keen attention paid to the seniors by Professor Denise Eldemire Shearer. I was not surprised as she has sought relentlessly to protect our elderly.

Please assist a senior in getting the vaccine, whether by registering them or by giving them a lift to the clinic.

Teachers in grief

Day after day, her fellow teachers joined with the Police in their search for Natalie Dawkins who had gone missing on March 30. Her car was located – one of the thugs trying to make a quick cheap sale was killed. The search ended in grief as Ms Dawkins’ remains were found in the Sandy Bay area in Clarendon last Thursday.

A video of her singing as she started a virtual class showed us a woman who had joy in teaching. She served at the Clarendon primary school for over 20 years and her passing has plunged the entire school into mourning.

As a result of keen Police action, four persons are now in custody. As we get news of so many persons going missing, we are on edge, concerned about the safety of our family members. Let us try to link with friends when going on the road. Make your own pepper spray if necessary – no one will charge you if you use it in self-defence.

St Vincent Volcano

We extend our sympathy to Caribbean neighbours in St. Vincent, where nearly 15 percent of their population – 16,000 persons - have been dislocated by the terrifying ‘La Soufrière’ volcano. Residents are dealing with heavy ashfall as well as small hail-like stones. The ash cloud has travelled as far as Barbados where the national airport had to be closed over the weekend due to poor visibility.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves tearfully thanked neighbours in Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda for offering to take Vincentians into their homes. Our own Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has been in talks with PM Gonsalves offering our assistance.

Food for the Poor has airlifted emergency supplies to St. Vincent for the evacuees and are liaising with partners in Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago and St. Lucia who are housing the Vincentians. Donations for this cause can be sent via www.foodforthepoor.org/vincent.

Happy 100th Lady Kay!

Kathleen ‘Kay’ Wilson, the driving force behind the establishment of the Jamaica Women’s Hockey Association celebrated her 100^th Birthday last Monday, joined virtually by family members and friends worldwide. Her niece, Jamaican poet Christine Craig sent us notes on her amazing life. Mrs Wilson was herself a national hockey player from 1956-1966, playing in tournaments in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Jamaica. The national team travelled extensively and played in many regional and international tournaments. For her services to the development of sports, she was awarded the Order of Distinction in 1994.

Mrs Wilson was recently feted by the Hampton Old Girls Association, celebrated as their oldest living alumna. Happy Birthday to a spirited Centenarian!

Goodbye my friend

Jamaican master chef Colin Hylton passed away suddenly last week, leaving his friends in shock and grief. His enthusiasm for his art took us on journeys of wondrous flavour. His ‘Guilt Trip’ Restaurant was popular for his unending range of exquisite cakes.

We explored Norway with Colin and fellow master chef Anthony Miller on their prizewinning trip from the Norwegian Seafood Council. In the rough seas of Saltsraumen Colin and Anthony managed the boat on their own, caught the fish and prepared triumphant dishes outdoors in a snowfall.  

Colin’s culinary adventures were world class and his joie-de-vivre contagious. Heaven must be a delicious place now. We miss you Colin – rest in peace my friend.

Legendary Joe Mahfood

The Food for the Poor family is mourning the passing of one of the organization’s co-founders, Joseph Mitchell ‘Joe’ Mahfood. He was not only a remarkable philanthropist but also an industrial pioneer, building with his brother Sam the Wisynco Group of Companies.

William Mahfood, his son who is now Chairman of the Wisynco Group says he remembers his father’s research and the long hours he put in to grow the company. Despite his entrepreneurial successes, William said his father always regarded as his ‘crowning achievement’ the founding of Food for the Poor with his brothers Ferdinand, Sam and Robin in Jamaica in 1982. The organisation has grown into one of the USA’s biggest charities serving 17 countries in the Caribbean and Central America.

The staff of Food for the Poor Jamaica remember his compassion for his fellow Jamaicans and shared Joe Mahfood’s mantra: “the most useful asset of a person is not a head full of knowledge but a heart full of love, with ears open to listen, and hands willing to help.” 

May his beautiful soul rest in peace.    

Prince Phillip dies at 99

As one would expect, there were all sorts on remarks on the messages of condolence sent to Queen Elizabeth by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen and Prime Minister Andrew Holness on the passing of her husband of 74 years. It was the right and proper thing to do, whether we believe that Jamaica should become a republic and have our own head of state.

In 1966 when the Prince attended the Commonwealth Games here, my sister Fran and I, mischievous teens, decided to call him. She dialed the number of his hotel and handed me the phone. I asked for the Prince and was shocked when he took the call. I abruptly said ‘Goodbye!’ but he asked me my name and thanked me for my stuttered welcome to Jamaica.

Rest in Peace, gentle Prince.

Photo captions

Hampton Old Girls celebrate the 100^th Birthday of the school’s oldest Alumna, Mrs Kathleen Wilson.

Mr Joseph Mahfood, co-founder of Food for the Poor and Wisynco

www.lowrie-chin.blogspot.com

Jessie’s spirit of mercy endures

 

 Alpha Mercy Award recipients (from left) Patricia Rowe, Calvin Hunter Jr and Patricia Lee. 

Excerpt from Observer column published 14 October 2019

Jean Lowrie-Chin

It is always wonderful to be with your schoolmates – except of course Aggrey Irons who continues to this day, his practice from Alpha Prep of pulling my hair! (Of course I am joking - so proud of Aggrey, my mischievous classmate who is now a renowned psychiatrist.) We gathered for the Alpha Mercy Gala recently, celebrating three individuals who have walked in the footsteps of that compassionate Jamaican woman, Jessie Ripoll, who with two friends, bought the Alpha premises at South Camp Road, and took in her first resident, a little orphan girl on May 1, 1880.

Patricia Lee (nee Yee), was honoured for her dedication to her Alma Mater, Convent of Mercy ‘Alpha’ Academy.  Patsy and husband Larry established Florida Tropiculture Inc, a Miami based enterprise over 30 years ago; the company’s plants can be found in distribution centres and at the many outlets of Home Depot, Lowe’s and Costco throughout the US. 

Sharing her good fortune, Patsy founded the Alpha Alumna association in Florida, contributing to scholarships and grants for Academy students, and sponsoring of health fairs at the school. 

Patsy is also a founding member of the Jamaica/USA Chamber of Commerce and a Director of the inaugural Board. She has received many honours, among them the prestigious Jamaica Diaspora Luminary Award in recognition of her invaluable contribution to the development of the Jamaican community in South Florida. 

Patricia Rose is an adjunct Professor of Nursing at Long Island University, Director of Nursing and Administrator of the Tri-State Licensed Home Care Agency in New York City and a Visiting Clinician at St. John's School of Nursing in Bangalore, India.

In her quest to increase literacy in her home parish of St. Elizabeth and in New York, with the help of her board of directors, advisors, donors, and educational teams from the Ministry of Education Youth and Information, Region 5, and the New York City Department of Education, she founded Literacy is a Family Experience, Inc. (LIFE) in 2014. She led the team in the building of a model which involves parents and families in their children’s educational experiences in the home, at school and in their communities.

Five years later, over 400 parents participate in LIFE’s model. Students receive remedial instruction from teachers who administer the LIFE model. Overall, 60 to 80% of children who were previously reading below grade level are now reading at or above grade level.

The third recipient is a graduate of Jessie Ripoll Primary – Calvin Hunter Jr. Growing up with a Christian family in an Allman Town tenement yard, the outstanding sports-loving student received the Jackie Bell Scholarship at Jessie Ripoll and developed his football prowess under Jackie’s brother, coach Neville ‘Bertis’ Bell at St George’s College. Even as he excelled in the fields of banking and auditing, he was encouraged by the late great Winston Chung Fah to remain and inspire the youth in Allman Town.

Calvin established the Optimist Club of St Matthew’s Kingston, serving as Charter President and later Distinguished President, using it as a vehicle to empower many youngsters. He rose to the position of District Governor of the Optimist International Caribbean District for 2017-2018, during which time the District was recognized as number one in the world. 

The devoted family man created “Adopt an Angel”, a Caribbean, public educational and capacity building programme endorsed by Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen against bullying and violence against children. A consultant at Crowe Jamaica, a member of the accounting and audit firm Crowe Horwath International, he participates in the financial development of his church, and is business manager for Alvin Day, international empowerment coach and author.

In a moving gesture, Calvin made a presentation to Lorna Bell, widow of Jackie Bell, thanking her for using the funds collected at his funeral to support his primary school education, creating a strong foundation for his successful life. 

Happy 20th Anniversary Digicel‼️

Denis O'Brien with children at Stella Maris Foundation - it was with the assistance of Digicel Foundation that Stella Maris was able to purchase their headquarters. 

Today is also Mr O'Brien's Birthday - bless his generous heart.

except from Jamaica Observer column published 19 April 2021

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

I remember the evening of April 19, 2001 when after months of planning, Marketing Manager Harry Smith and I were going over the programme for the Launch of Digicel at the Pegasus Hotel.

"Oh my Lord Harry," I exclaimed. "We don't have 'Prayer' on the Programme!" 

"Alright," said Harry, "If you write it, I will say it." I wrote the words purposefully, asking God for His blessing on this brave new company. I believe God heard us, and indeed that through His grace, Digicel Chairman Denis O'Brien became the answer to many prayers.

Overnight, even the humblest Jamaican could afford a phone. Micro-businesses could restock easily, live-in household workers could stay connected to their families, seniors could call for assistance in emergencies.

 It was exciting to attend the launch of Digicel in Trinidad, Barbados and Haiti, and to see the energy of the teams including our own Jamaicans rolling out the networks in the 32 countries in the Caribbean, Central America and the Pacific.

The Digicel Foundation was launched in 2004, and has funded islandwide projects for education, special needs and community development to the tune of over $60 billion. The most moving area of its operations has been the building of special needs schools which ensure that no matter what learning challenges our children face, they are given a chance to achieve their full potential. In addition to Jamaica, Digicel Foundations have been established in Haiti, Papua New Guinea and Trinidad & Tobago, and have contributed to positive outcomes for over 3 million people to date.

 Denis O'Brien was inducted as an Honorary member of the Order of Jamaica and received the Honorary Doctorate from UWI in 2015. "The proudest part of all of that we have achieved over the years is that, as a company, we have our roots here in Jamaica," he said in his commencement speech to UWI graduates. "Without hesitation, Jamaica is the cornerstone of Digicel growth and development of all our 32 countries."

Here's wishing Digicel a happy 20th anniversary and many more great years.

Happy 30th Anniversary ESL

Milestone 'Earth Day' for ESL

excerpt from Observer column published 19 April 2021

Our environmental predicament is as serious as the social: our very existence is threatened by both. We are one of the many small island developing states (SIDS) worldwide which are vulnerable to the deterioration of our environment. Global warming may lead to rising seas that may obliterate our shorelines – consider the loss of our business districts, airports and resort areas. It pains me to see the thoughtless use of plastics in developed countries while we are here trying to do our part.

I remember our friend Professor Trevor Jackson of blessed memory remarking that Eleanor Jones would have been a Professor of Geology if she had not given up her position as a UWI Lecturer to start her business. Eleanor relates that she had attended several conferences on environmental issues and decided exactly 30 years ago that it was time to stop talking about problems and begin to address them, thus founding her company, Environmental Solutions Limited (ESL).

The company's mission, "to harmonize development with environmentally sustainable practices through the application of science, and standards of excellence", has been invaluable to the built environment here and throughout the Caribbean. The company's anniversary coincides with Earth Day 2021 to be celebrated this Thursday. ESL will mark the occasion with climate action, environmental health in schools, reforestation and webinars.  

Eleanor Jones reflects, "What a joy it is to have come this far and to have inspired many professionals, public and private sector leaders, and civil society; to have contributed to the design and construction of environmentally sound projects in road, seaport, airport, sanitation, water supply and energy infrastructure, housing and resort development! To have championed international certification for health and analytical services in chemistry and microbiology." Congratulations to Eleanor and her 30-strong staff of top professionals.

Farewell Bunny Wailer

Excerpt from Observer column published March 8 2021

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

 

Bunny Wailer - photo from Jamaica Observer 

The passing of the great Bunny Wailer, born Neville O'Riley Livingston was noted far and wide in the global media. He was Bob Marley’s step-brother and together they endured poverty and honed their musical excellence to become with Peter Tosh, Junior Brathwaite and Beverly Kelso (believed to be the only surviving member of the group) the world-famous Wailers. My husband Hubie believes Bunny Wailer was the top singer of them all. He cited his memorable compositions ‘Cool Runnings’, ‘Ballroom Floor’ and ‘Rootsman Skanking’. We learned only last week from an Observer article quoting Marcia Griffiths, that it was Bunny Wailer who wrote “Electric Boogie” for her, the classic which inspired that joyful group dance, ‘Electric Slide’.

 His past year was a sad one, mourning his wife who went missing and was never found.

We give thanks that Bunny Wailer’s passing is not the end of the phenomenal Wailers – their art will endure for generations to come. Our condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.

 

 

Bishop Robert Thompson’s ‘Redemption Song’

Excerpt for Observer column - 29 March 2021 (unedited)

 

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

The virtual Launch of Bishop Robert Thompson's book, "Redemption Song: Reading the Scripture for Social Change" was hosted last Thursday by Christine Randle, CEO of Ian Randle Publishers. The retired Anglican Bishop of Kingston has often given us a reality check on our social conditions and his book calls on his church community to take a different approach to theology.

Rev. Thompson refers to "the deep legacy of colonialism" which he believes "continues to stifle" our national development. He is challenging the established church to cast away Euro-American interpretations of Scripture and share a theology that "embraces and affirms all people across class and culture."

In the book's foreword, Archbishop Howard Gregory noted its importance for educators and students as well as lay leaders involved in "serious study of the Bible and gospel as 'midwives' for social transformation."

This should be an excellent read during this Holy Week which will see us adapting to new ways of worship for the holiest days in our Christian calendar. This past year has shown us that we can pivot and thrive. 

Bishop Thompson's call in "Redemption Song" echoes Jesus' counsel: "No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins." (Mark 2:21-2)

Veronica Blake Carnegie launches 'Lizzards of Liguanea'

 

Veronica Blake Carnegie's Book launch - Lizzards of Liguanea

Address by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Salutations

I am honoured to celebrate with CCRP member Veronica Blake Carnegie the launch of her entertaining book, “The Lizzards of Liguanea”.

One of CCRP’s three missions is “To work towards ensuring that the vast talent, experience and wisdom of seniors will be respected.”

In the case of the prolific author Veronica Blake Carnegie, her continuous creativity reminds us of the Shakespearean character’s description of Cleopatra:

“Age cannot wither her, nor custom stale / Her infinite variety”

Now I would like listeners to pay close attention to this fact:

Veronica Blake Carnegie will be celebrating her 90^th Birthday in this year, 2021, and in addition to the 10 books she has already published, she has four manuscripts readying for publication. Yes, Veronica will be 90 years young this year!

Veronica’s students at Ardenne High School, Jamaica College and Immaculate Conception High School may well remember her passion for History.

You can take the teacher out of the classroom but you can’t take the classroom out of the teacher.

In Veronica’s ‘The Lizzards of Liguanea’, a fascinating children’s book that features her three children, we learn that ‘Liguanea’ is derived from the Taino name for iguanas, and several historical nuggets, blended into the amusing adventures of young Donald and his iguana friend ‘Iggy’.

Her two other recent publications are also lighthearted but very informative. ‘Dr Too Too’ is about the brilliant educator David Gruber and his career throughout Jamaica, teaching Jamaica’s children, nurturing empathy and patriotism.

‘Dear Pastor Paul’ is in a question-and-answer format giving considerate advice, drawing on the counsel of young pastors, Kirk and Natasha Campbell of Jabneh Christian Academy in Grange Hill, Westmoreland.

Veronica Carnegie’s zest for writing and sharing life lessons inspires us all to persevere with our God-given talent, regardless of our age.

Ageism is real and ugly. Veronica’s works remind us that we can gain so much from the wisdom of our elders. We must not deprive ourselves of the rich experiences and wealth of knowledge that they have to share.

I am delighted that Veronica has agreed to be a special guest on CCRP Update on RJR on Sunday April 11 - Save the date!

On behalf of CCRP, I extend hearty congratulations to the indefatigable Veronica Blake Carnegie. May you enjoy the creation of many more pages of adventure and teachings, a legacy of joy for your fellow Jamaicans.

 

“There is life beyond this valley”

Observer column written for 8 March 2021

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

(The section mentioning Tricia Williamson's Bambusa, Monique Powell's QuickPlate and freelancing websites was edited out for Monday's Observer. This is the column in its entirety.) 

"There is life beyond this valley," declared Michael Lee-Chin during a recent interview on a Canadian television station. He noted that "crisis equals danger plus opportunity" and stressed the importance of long-term planning. He said that because he had done this for his businesses, there was no need to change their strategy, even in the face of the Covid crisis. "Stay in your lane and stay in your long-term plan," he advised.

For those who did not have such a plan, now is the time to get one done, and they may find Lee-Chin's "five rules for wealth creation" useful. These are: own a few high-quality businesses; understand them well; ensure they are in strong, long-term growth industries; use other people's money prudently; hold the businesses inter-generationally."

He said that as a baby boomer, he went into the investment business when he saw this large cohort of the population looking to retirement planning. Now, baby boomers are ageing and healthcare is looming large on his radar, particularly the sub-trend, cancer. He is therefore investing in peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), described as "molecular targeted therapies [which] use drugs or other substances to identify and attack cancer cells while reducing harm to healthy tissue."

To entrepreneurial aspirants, Lee-Chin says one should ask oneself, "How am I making sure my businesses are relevant?" He says they should look at differentiating themselves, be in a constant reputation-building mode, and focus on making sure they are solving customers' issues. This is the practice of successful businesses: reading the market, gathering the data, making the plan, executing and preserving your competitive advantage. This can account for GraceKennedy's best year ever despite the pandemic.

Tricia Williamson's Bambusa straws became popular with the ban on plastic straws and since then she has expanded her line, offering world-class items made from bamboo, some with enthralling digital interface. When Monique Powell introduced her company, QuickPlate at a PSOJ meeting a few years ago, little did we dream that her service would be in such great demand with the arrival of Covid. IT companies are busy, helping companies get up to speed in the new work-from-home dispensation.

We can take advantage of free online workshops and courses at coursera.com,  network on LinkedIn, and pick up well-paying part-time jobs at Fiverr, Upwork, Toptal, Simply Hired, PeoplePerHour, Aquent, Crowded, The Creative Group, 99Designs, and Nexxt.

 

Job seekers should know that there are many willing executives who will spare the time to help you navigate your way forward. If you don't ask, you won't know!

 

With the avalanche of Covid concerns and arguments, we can lose focus on that all important long-term planning for family, career, business and community. One friend asked to be removed from a WhatsApp group because she was feeling overwhelmed by the constant Covid drumming. If we do not focus, we can become drained and immobilised. We must guard our mental health, make the effort to celebrate family milestones virtually and lift the spirits of our friends and colleagues. Let us power out of this valley.

 

Ambassador Marks' 'Jamaica Connect'

 

Jamaica's Ambassador to the US, Audrey Marks, has initiated a monthly 'Jamaica Connect' conversation with members of the Jamaican Diaspora and the response was so great that some visitors on Zoom had to be redirected to the Facebook Live link. Ambassador Marks briefed attendees on the new protocols for those planning to visit Jamaica, and fielded questions.

 

Participants wanted to see more education in Jamaican heritage, were concerned about the well-being of our children here and expressed their willingness to contribute to their education. We felt their deep love for their homeland; there are still untapped opportunities which we need to further explore. Ambassador Marks, herself a successful entrepreneur, will no doubt be promoting this – there is strength in numbers.

 

Indiscipline overload

 

While we valiantly try to build our country, we see the troubling challenge of indiscipline. We were appalled by the TVJ report on the so-called 'apostle' who shouted at the Police when they tried to shut down a service at her church, attended by well over the ten allowed with not a mask in sight. It is disturbing that someone who should be setting a good example to her flock was instead defying law enforcement officers who had no choice but to charge her. In downtown Kingston, the Police had to shut down a wake at a funeral parlour and in May Pen, we saw video of a taxi driver attacking a Police officer.  

 

The Police showed great restraint in the circumstances and we have to commend them on the patience that some of us pray to have. This indiscipline and the swagger of gangsters can lead to another brain drain, one which could undermine the best efforts of our entrepreneurs. The best minds must come together and act to take Jamaica out of this danger zone.

 

Hospital Blues

 

The complaints are coming in thick and fast as our health system is buckling under the Covid spike. Health workers are stressed and hospital beds are in short supply. We are rocked by the tragic deaths of a 17-year-old asthma patient at the University Hospital and a 32-year-old nurse who was a Covid patient at KPH. Thankfully, several persons I know who have Covid are able to treat themselves at home, after consulting their doctors.  There are so many symptoms that can indicate Covid that one should not delay in seeing one's doctor. Early testing and treatment can help to prevent hospitalisation.

 

Farewell Bunny Wailer

 

The passing of the great Bunny Wailer, born Neville O'Riley Livingston was noted far and wide in the global media. He was Bob Marley's step-brother and together they endured poverty and honed their musical excellence to become with Peter Tosh, Junior Brathwaite and Beverly Kelso (believed to be the only surviving member of the group) the world-famous Wailers. My husband Hubie believes Bunny Wailer was the top singer of them all. He cited his memorable compositions 'Cool Runnings', 'Ballroom Floor' and 'Rootsman Skanking'. We learned only last week from an Observer article quoting Marcia Griffiths, that it was Bunny Wailer who wrote "Electric Boogie" for her, the classic which inspired that joyful group dance, 'Electric Slide'.

 

His past year was a sad one, mourning his wife who went missing and was never found.

We give thanks that Bunny Wailer's passing is not the end of the phenomenal Wailers – their art will endure for generations to come. Our condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.

 

Photo caption: 

Michael Lee-Chin and his wife Sonya

 

 

 

Covid solutions - CommonPass and Ivermectin

Excerpt from Observer column published January 23, 2021

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

My friend Paula Kerr-Jarrett is hoping that Jamaica will begin using CommonPass soon. She says tourism in Aruba is now booming because their Government, led by Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes, have subscribed to this digital health pass, which, according to a report on the World Economic Forum website, "enables safer travel by allowing people to document their COVID-19 test and vaccination status on their mobile phone and share it in a privacy-preserving manner with airline staff and immigration officials."

We understand from Paula that this was developed by the non-profit organisation The CommonTrust Network, funded by Commons Project Foundation (more information available at press@thecommonsproject.org). She believes that by registering for CommonPass which is a free service, we could see faster recovery of our tourism industry.

Paula also shared positive experiences from the use of drug, Ivermectin in the treatment of Covid-19. Users have reported that by taking the drug three days in a row after getting a positive result, they were symptom free. "This is a low-cost way of treating Covid," she noted.

She shared a report which noted, "Ivermectin has been used for more than 30 years for the treatment of several diseases. More than one million doses of the drug are administered daily, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Due to the low prevalence of adverse events with the use of this drug, ivermectin is considered to have a good safety profile and its potential benefit in other diseases is currently under investigation. An in vitro study of ivermectin in SARS-CoV-2 in Australia showed a significant reduction of viral load in infected cells. Subsequently, a descriptive study of 704 critical patients with COVID-19 showed a reduction in mortality, hospitalization, and intensive care unit length-of-stay in those patients who received the drug."

We do hope the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Health and Wellness will explore the benefits of CommonPass and treatment of Covid-19 with Ivermectin.

Dr Leahcim Semaj shares advice on New Year's Resolutions

Advice from Dr. Leahcim Semaj,

Quantum Transformation Psychologist, Chief Ideator and Resultant, and International Keynote & Motivational Speaker.

If you missed CCRP Update on December 27 - or need a reminder - here are some important pointers from Dr Semaj for making realistic New Year's Resolutions:

Your mission statement should be simple, memorable and measurable - chose one resolution that will have the best impact on your life.

State your vision - what are you going to be one year from now - write it like a press release 

Review after the first 90 days - how far to your goals by then?

Have a 30 day plan - ongoing rolling plan 

It takes 21 days to form a new habit but it takes 90 days for it to become a part of you - persist.        

Be modest, be strategic with New Year's resolutions

For Dr Semaj - it's to maximise his quality of life - diet, exercise, planning

Be consistent - Plan to go to the gym every day 

First 30 days important

Get a coach - could be a friend who will help to keep you accountable.

He received a one month gift of Personal trainer - seeing results motivated him to exercise every day

Most ppl start with too many things - don't try to do too many things.

Develop good habits - Habit runs behaviour.           

End of year  is a powerful, natural cycle of life.

Kwanzaa directs well - today celebrates Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): To define and name ourselves, as well as to create and speak for ourselves.

I, me & we - three aspects of self - always consider those who love you.

Evaluate the past year & plan!

CCRP Update is a weekly radio feature on Palav - sponsored by JNGI Silver Shield, offering valuable auto and property insurance packages for CCRP members.

If we fix crime, we will fix Jamaica

 

Jamaica Observer column published 14 DEC 2020

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

You would think that with this pandemic, Jamaica would get a break from crime and violence, but every week we are shocked by reports, the latest of which is the murder of four family members including a pregnant woman in St. Catherine last week. We are looking to the Crime Monitoring and Oversight Committee (CMOC), established on the signing of the National Crime Consensus MOU by stakeholders from Government, private sector and civil society to help us to address once and for all the myriad issues that have continued to visit so much pain and suffering on our nation.

Investors have repeatedly reminded us that Jamaica’s crime issue is a deterrent. Our own relatives in the Jamaican Diaspora are fearful of returning to the place they still call home. Believe them when they say if we fix crime, we will fix Jamaica.

CMOC, headed by Jamaica Chamber of Commerce President Lloyd Distant has established key performance indicators (KPIs) to track their progress including proposed Legislation, among them:

· Approval of the outstanding MOCA Regulations – by end of Q4-2020

 · Adding and prioritizing approval of sections of the Proceed of Crimes Act (POCA) to include and strengthen the role of Unexplained Wealth orders and reverse burden of proof, enabling the seizure of assets from persons who obtained their wealth by crime or corruptly and those found guilty of facilitating money-laundering and other serious crimes, and ensuring that lawyers cannot be paid with proceeds of crime - by Q4-2021

·       Prioritizing the approval and gazetting of the Regulations to the Public Bodies Management Accountability Act governing the nomination, selection and appointment of Boards of Public Bodies – by end of Q3 2020

They project that Parliament will review and agree the implementation of these and other recommendations by end of Q2-2021.

Last week we observed International Human Rights Day with a webinar hosted by The Institute for Gender & Development Studies – Regional Coordinating Office at UWI (IGDS-RCO) titled “Practical Strategies for Monitoring and Dealing with Gender-based violence within Vulnerable Communities”. Important work is being done by the Bureau of Gender Affairs, represented by Abby-Gale Clarke; health professionals, represented by Dr. Simone French; Children’s Advocate Diahann Gordon Harrison; the Jamaica Constabulary Force represented by Inspector Heather McLean; and the Jamaica Network of Seropositives represented by Jumoke Patrick.

There was a heavy-hearted observation that our most vulnerable were running out of options for protection with the burden of joblessness and the spike in Covid. Access to justice has become more difficult for women during the Covid lockdown.

Consider this: while many are criticizing the Education Ministry for announcing that over 60 additional schools have been approved for reopening in January, the school environment could very well be the safest for children in high-risk communities.

Covid vigilance

You cannot help but be impressed when our Chief Medical Officer Jacquiline Bisasor McKenzie takes us through those charts showing Covid spikes and her Ministry’s vigilance as they try to control the spread. Last week’s ‘Covid Conversation’ hosted by Health and Wellness Minister Dr Chris Tufton and addressed by Minister of Local Government Desmond McKenzie, as well as several Mayors left us grateful that our leaders, including those in Opposition are all on the same page in their fight against Covid.

What is disheartening however, is that people, many of whom should know better, are throwing illegal parties, even lying that they have KSAC approval. I believe these folks should be taken to a hospital and made to see what being on a ventilator looks like. They need to be reminded that people of all ages have died from this virus. Perhaps the next Covid conversation should be the experiences of a bereaved relative and those who survived the worst of Covid. One such person is politician Basil Waite who has described the excruciating pain and breathing difficulties which sent him into the Intensive Care Unit at the UWI Hospital. Thank goodness he survived and has high praises for the UWI staff.

PSOJ President Keith Duncan, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation but also the plight of those who always look forward to Christmas for their biggest bump in sales, suggests a disciplined approach, regarding opening times and crowd control. Driving around town, we see that mask-wearing is still a problem. Perhaps we should resort to giving motorized Police loudspeakers as they have done in South Africa – they use it to call out and warn non-maskers as they drive through the town, describing them and shaming them.

IDB Road Safety Conference

 The IDB in collaboration with the National Road Safety Council (NRSC) last week hosted a webinar, "Road Safety in the Caribbean: A Safe System Approach to Saving Lives". IDB Caribbean head Therese Turner-Jones pointed out that road crashes are the second leading cause of death for children in the Latin American and Caribbean region. She noted that the continued high incidence of road crashes has increased the stress on our public health system, coping with the Covid outbreak.

She noted that transportation and development of road systems are vehicles for economic development. Indeed, the IDB approved for Jamaica in 2009, one of the first loans in the world specifically targeted at operations increasing road safety.

Mrs Turner-Jones congratulated the NRSC on their efforts to educate bikers in Westmoreland on road safety measures. However, I have learned that there is a macho culture associated with that group. They head out to parties in convoy, many without helmets, greeting and honking at each other. According to a resident in the West, they have that same air of bravado when they attend the funeral of a fellow biker. “It is like they belong to a cult,” he said.

Dr Lucien Jones observed soberly that of the over one million who die in road crashes each year, 90 percent are from developing countries. Like Covid, road safety relies greatly on individual responsibility. There must be consequences for carelessness, and we await the implementation of the amended Road Traffic Act.

Ambassador Sue Cobb - "The Lady of Silk and Steel'

 

Excerpt from Jamaica Observer column published 14 December 2020

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Ambassador Sue Cobb continued her legacy of meaningful engagement with the Jamaican people, even after she ended her tour of duty here in 2005. She was one of the founders of the generous American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) and for several years sponsored the Cobb Family Lecture at UWI, a platform for exploring issues and solutions by some of Jamaica’s brightest minds.

In her recently published autobiography, a collaboration with Dr. Laura Tanna, we are reminded that her tenure started on September 11, 2001 – yes, on 9/11, the most testing of times. The title of the book, “The Lady of Silk and Steel”, is taken from a commentary on Ambassador Cobb’s tenure by former Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, as he described their differences of opinion, yet their cordial and respectful relationship.

There is much to learn from this wise account from an extraordinary diplomat, adventurer and dedicated grandmother. Published by Ian Randle Ltd, all proceeds will go to charity, so buy it for the good and be inspired by Ambassador Cobb’s remarkable journey.

Susan Pitter’s book – ‘Eulogy’

Excerpt from. Jamaica Observer column published 7 Dec 2020

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Born of Jamaican parents who had migrated to Britain in the sixties, Susan Pitter was inspired when she saw the lovely photos in the funeral programme of her Dad's friend, to create an elegant publication, "Eulogy" for the Jamaica Society Leeds. 

The well-researched book includes the history of the "Windrush generation", photographs and quotes donated by 76 families whose parents and grandparents had migrated to Leeds over two decades from the 1940s. Some were former RAF members who after the war, decided to settle down there.

Their stories tell of ambitious, decent, hardworking families who were activists and contributed to the development of their community. One nurse recalls that even as she was caring for patients, they were disrespecting her with racist remarks. 

Susan's parents were an attractive couple, Hermerde and Enid Pitter (nee Neil) who hailed from St. Elizabeth. They worked hard to raise their four children, all of whom are successful professionals. 'Eulogy' is a valuable keepsake and all proceeds go to the Jamaica Society Leeds.

Susan quotes the late Professor Rex Nettleford in her book: "If you don't find the time to document your own history, it is likely to be forgotten – or worse still, misrepresented."