Press Association Condemns Attack on Journalists

Press Association of Jamaica Condemns Attack on Journalists

 Calls For Swift Investigation and Action From Police

 

November 29, 2022: The Press Association of Jamaica is condemning the attack of a cameraman and newspaper reporter in Homestead, Spanish Town, St Catherine on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.

The photojournalist and reporter told us that while on assignment at the Homestead Primary School, covering a sick out by staff members, they were filming a scene by the school gate when the photojournalist was attacked by a man from the community who punched him.

The photojournalist also pointed out that the man grabbed his camera, ripped the microphone cable and attempted to damage the camera. He also tried to seize the mobile phone of the newspaper reporter.

We were informed that the police visited the scene and took statements.

The Press Association of Jamaica condemns unequivocally this reprehensible act and display of thuggery towards our workers.

The Press Association also wishes to remind the public that journalists must be free to conduct their duties without any form of threat or injurance, and is calling on the police to ensure a thorough investigation is done and appropriate penalties are applied to the attacker.

-30-

--

"A Free Press, Oxygen of Democracy"

Our silos of selfishness

Observer column published Monday 17 January 2022

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

There are no words for the terrible murders that are shaking our country. But there are words for us who have stepped up to be leaders, whether in politics, the public or private sector, church, media or civil society. We have failed our country. With our tiny egos, we have created silos of selfishness instead of joining together to be a powerful instrument of change. We can quarrel, criticize and 'speechify', we can shout God's name from prayer breakfasts; but nothing can happen if we do not become active in this social emergency.

This hunger for power has shredded the true definition of politics, a means by which the people of a nation can be well served and assured of their human rights. Study well these rights at https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights .

Article Three states: 'Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.' In this tiny rock of three million, our leaders from this and previous administrations just cannot seem to give us these rights. We are locked behind bars in our homes while the criminals run free. One of Jamaica's most positive souls, Nadine Sutherland, posted on social media: 'Today I feel like a prisoner in my own country. I'm tired, I'm really tired! I live always on the lookout for criminals. Every day, I wake hearing about criminal activities of the worst kind. We are the ones hiding, they seem to have free rein, rampaging!" She added, "The death of this kid!" referring to the horrific murder of nine-year-old Gabriel King.

The PSOJ and JCC launched the Crime Monitoring and Oversight Committee two years ago, and have been reporting that several of the important crime-fighting steps that had been agreed by them, including Government and Opposition stakeholders, have not been met. Again, PSOJ President Keith Duncan has called for a state of emergency, and we can expect the usual quibbling while we hold our collective breaths.

On Thursday, church leaders will meet at the Pegasus Hotel for the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast. We believe that if we did not have dedicated church leaders and members, Jamaica would be in a worse position. It was Peter Mais who marshalled a group of us together some 30 years ago to form the Stella Maris Foundation in Grants Pen at a time when it was an area of unrest. By initiating the HEART Training programme, partnering with psychology experts at UWI for mediation and counselling, and with the assistance of the Digicel Foundation and USAID, we were able to bring peace to the community.

This did not happen overnight. It required the focus and planning of resolute volunteers and a diligent staff. At each board meeting, we reviewed our key performance indicators (KPIs). How many lives did we touch? How many enrolled in training? How many graduates? We established the Norma Chang Day care Centre so that mothers of infants could, and still can, attend classes while their children are cared for. We have seen moving success stories out of that Foundation.

The Salvation Army, the Anglican Church's Mother's Union, the Seventh Day Adventist's Good Samaritan Inn, Mustard Seed in the heart of Olympic Way, Sister Benedict's Laws Street Centre, the leading schools founded and run by Churches and the Government – yes, we have noble examples of the splendid work of the Churches.

Churches have the ear of women in crime-ridden communities. They do not want to see their children and grandchildren murdered by fellow gang members or in a shootout with the police. How can we help them to persuade these young men to turn themselves in? We have international colleagues with the experience; let us learn from each other and help our young men to redeem themselves.

Now to our overworked and underpaid members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. It is good news that police stations are being refurbished and better equipment and motor vehicles are being provided for the police. However, they must be paid a fair wage in keeping with the demands we make of them. If we continue like this, we will lose some of our finest officers who would readily find employment in the global security industry.

We beg our leaders to have a conscience: cease the grandstanding in Parliament and at press conferences. This situation requires the urgent attention of both Government and Opposition – by their example we can come together and end this mindless violence.

MPs study Parliamentary Governance

Eleven JLP MPs, along with politicians from other countries, completed the Parliamentary Governance Programme at McGill University last week. Congratulations to them all, and kudos to Ann-Marie Vaz who scored straight 'A's. I hope PNP MPs will also take up this course; good governance is the only way forward.

Ian Forbes – St. Andrew Custos Designate

Dr Patricia Dunwell's term of office as Custos of St. Andrew will end shortly. Dr. Dunwell served with distinction, ensuring that Justices of the Peace attended development sessions and delivering inspiring addresses at myriad events. She balanced her duties as Custos and her professional life with grace and dignity. We are grateful to her for her national service, supported by her husband Stanley Dunwell.

In a letter to us JPs in St. Andrew, she announced that Ian Forbes, well known business leader who has been a driving force for years in the JAAA and a Trustee of Jamaica College, is our Custos Designate. We congratulate him and know we can enjoy the support also of his wife Lana Forbes. How can we give up on Jamaica? We still have good people here, willing to serve.

TEDx Mona – day of pride

Last Saturday, five brilliant Jamaicans spoke at the TEDx Mona event on the theme, 'Creating your own reality': Antoinette Aiken, founder of 'TONITERP'; Emprezz Golding, CEO of 'Talk Up Yout'; Dr Dingle Spence, Palliative Care Medical Doctor; Dr Diana Thorburn, Director of CAPRI and Maurice Wilson, Principal of GC Foster College. If you missed the live event, it will shortly be posted on YouTube. Make the time to enjoy and learn.

Jamaican to ski in Winter Olympics

Benjamin Alexander, British-born with a Jamaican father, will be the first skier ever to represent Jamaica in the Winter Olympics next month in China. Inspired by the film 'Cool Runnings', Alexander who started skiing in 2016 qualified last week for the Olympics by finishing seventh in the giant slalom at the Republic of Cabo Verde National Ski Championships.

According to Sky News, 'Two years ago the engineering graduate decided to make a plan to "get to Olympic standard piece by piece." He said that on his four-month visit to Jamaica in 2020, he learned to appreciate our 'cool factor'. He commented, "The biggest cheer at the Olympics is always for the host country, but the second biggest cheer is always for Jamaica."

Well, look at that: let us help Jamaica step up to our cool, 'one love' reputation.

 

Private Sector and Civil Society Groups Implore the Opposition to Support Extension of SOEs

MESSAGE FROM THE PSOJ - 24 November 2022

Dear Jean, On November 25th, 2022, the Senate will debate the extension of the States of Public Emergency (SOEs) until January 14, 2023, in the select parishes where SOEs were declared on November 15, 2023. This broad-based grouping of Private Sector and Civil Society supports the extension of the SOE and urges the Senate to pass the extension on the condition that the Government addresses outstanding key issues, critical in achieving full Opposition's support until January 14, 2023, in the select parishes where SOEs were declared on November 15, 2023. Murders have Declined Since SOEs Declared Since the declaration of the SOEs on November 15, we have seen murders decline significantly nationally, and in the parishes where the SOEs were declared nine days ago. Nationally, the data shows 63 murders being recorded the weeks before the declaration of the SOEs. Data shows that 12 murders were recorded in the first week of the declaration of SOEs. This is a significant decline. Since yesterday, within the parishes and specific zones where SOEs were declared murders have recorded a dip from 21 for the period November 7th-14th to 6 from November 15th-22nd. The data demonstrates that SOEs can help to save lives. Appeal for Extension of SOEs through the Christmas period until January 14, 2023 Jamaicans across the length and breadth of the country are living in a state of fear and anxiety and consider the crime situation a chronic crisis. While the use of SOEs to contain the current surge of crime and violence is not a long-term solution, it has demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing murders. We recommend that these emergency measures be employed over the Christmas period as a surge in criminal activity is the norm during this time as criminal elements look to rob, extort, and murder, to increase ill-gotten gains. JCF and JDF Recommend the SOEs  The leadership of the JCF and JDF recommend the extension of SOEs to mitigate the loss of lives. This temporary measure, we anticipate, will ease the constant bloodletting, and enable law-abiding citizens to enjoy the holiday season.  SOEs are an Interim Measure  We agree that SOEs should not be a routine measure in normal times but believe that the trend in recent months suggests that we need additional measures now to disrupt criminal networks as soon as possible in order to reduce violent crimes and murder.  Enhanced Security Measures  We are aware that the Enhanced Security Measures (ESM) have been outstanding from Q-1 of 2021 as signed off in the Crime Monitoring & Oversight Committee (CMOC) consensus agreement. We acknowledge that there has been progress, but this deliverable requires finalisation.  The Enhanced Security Measures will provide greater powers in the law to target, detain and neutralise known violence producers by providing strong intelligence to the Justice system.  Collaboration of GoJ and Opposition on the Drafting and Passage of the ESM  The Opposition leader has indicated in Parliament that he has proposed a framework for the ESM and the Prime Minister has indicated that these measures are being drafted.  We strongly recommend that the GoJ collaborates with the Opposition on drafting the ESM with a heightened sense of urgency to ensure that it has the smoothest possible passage through the lower and upper houses so the measures can be utilised in the shortest possible time frame. We recommend that the draft legislation is brought to the lower house before the expiry of the SOEs on January 14, 2023.  Political Maturity required  Jamaica is bleeding, and we are at a point of great frustration as citizens. We expect our Prime Minister to lead this process and engage the Opposition with humility and inclusiveness. We are hopeful that the Opposition will reciprocate.   We strongly encourage the GoJ to consider suggested changes made by the Opposition on the clauses of the Emergency Power Regulations once they don't reduce the effectiveness of the SOE.    The Private Sector and Civil Society encourage a unified approach to crime fighting, one that is without politicisation. The citizens of Jamaica deserve the right to life and to raise their families in a society that will allow them to do so without fear.   We must win the war.  The following groups are supporting this appeal:  The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ)  The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC)  Jamaica Manufacturers & Exporters Association (JMEA)  Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association (JHTA)  MSME Alliance  Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ)  The Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce & Industry   The Negril Chamber of Commerce  The Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce   The May Pen Chamber of Commerce  Jamaica Employers Federation (JEF)  Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA)  Dunn's River Craft Traders Market Association   Ocho Rios Craft Council   Jamaican Craft Traders & Producers Association     -END-

Riding out this fourth Covid wave

Observer column for published Monday 10 Jan 2022

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Health Minister Dr Chris Tufton and Chief Medical Officer Dr Jacquiline Bisasor McKenzie did not mince words as they warned at last week's press briefing of the fourth wave of Covid, dominated by the highly contagious Omicron variant. Many of us are getting calls from family and friends who went abroad for the holidays that they must postpone their return as they have tested positive for Covid. Now these are not careless people. They have double-masked, worn face shields, remained in the homes of relatives. But somehow that sneaky Omicron found its way into their system.

This virus travels in an aerosol from the mouth or nose of infected persons. It sprays far and wide and its particles are so light that they linger in the air for a long time. Surgical masks offer minimal protection as there are gaps at the sides. Tying the strings makes an even bigger opening. It is recommended that you wear a cloth mask over the surgical mask for full protection, though the ideal is the N95 mask.

We love to sing in church, but this is now forbidden in some churches overseas; the aerosol travels further when released from singing, as well as loud talking and laughing. Covid is a total wet blanket, but if we want to come out of this crisis, we must Zoom and FaceTime the laughter.

We continue to have one of the lowest vaccination rates in the Caribbean: less than 25 percent. A JIS report by Alecia Smith quoted the Minister: "We need to continue to emphasise to Jamaicans that the persons who are most affected by COVID-19, irrespective of the strain, whether it's Delta or otherwise, are persons who are not vaccinated, and it is a sobering message to those who are not, that you are in increased danger and you should make every effort to get vaccinated."

Between last Thursday and Friday, Jamaica recorded 2,862 new cases and nine new deaths. The CMO said that in reviewing the deaths from Covid since March of last year, 98.5 percent of the 1,953 persons who passed away, were unvaccinated. Yes, you can get Covid even if you are vaccinated, but the symptoms will not be as severe as for those who are unvaccinated.

I have been one of those pushing for schools to be reopened but in the face of this massive surge which we believe will pass in three to four weeks, it may be best for the Ministry to take a break once again from face-to-face learning. It is very hard for children to stay safe when they are boarding crowded buses and using taxis. However, we are appealing to the many churches in the inner city to open their doors so children can get some level of supervision. The stories coming out of those places are frightening; we will have 10-year-old alcoholics and weed-heads in these communities if we are not careful.

As to the destruction of 900,000 doses of Covid vaccine at the NHF warehouse, we are hoping that this is a result of negligence rather than sabotage. We Jamaicans go 'the full hundred' of enjoyment at Christmas. This breach happened on Christmas Eve when the celebrations are at peak. It would be bad enough if the loss was caused by negligence, but utterly despicable it is proved to have been done purposely by anti-vax team members.

Young entrepreneurs shine

It is wonderful to see young entrepreneurs making their mark in Jamaica. Monique Powell of QuickCart (formerly QuickPlate) continues to widen her offerings and locations, while Larren Peart, creator of Blue Dot is making his way through his financial challenges.

Tyrone Wilson, CEO of iCreate, was understandably bullish about the digital training and media services company's prospects at its recent AGM. Having survived the downturn of the early stages of COVID, rationalized and reduced expenses, iCreate has again attracted significant investment and is forging ahead with its visionary Creative City project as well as the core business of training for the digital economy through iCreate Institute.

The iCreate Institute has trained some 4,000 individuals to date, and earned over J$150 million. We have a soft spot for the Institute which offered 500 CCRP members free training last year.

 

Farewell great Jamaicans

We said farewell last week to four amazing Jamaicans, and I confess that my heart is heavy as I reflect on these great individuals.

First came news that my mother's best friend, Mrs Josephine Lowe, a stalwart of the Women's Federation, passed away at 103-years-old. We have fond memories of her 100^th birthday party hosted by her son Dr Henry Lowe at Eden Gardens. She stood and danced as they played 'She's Royal' and kept us all in lively conversation. Her house was the centre of fund-raisers for the community, and she was honoured several times for her contribution to the Federation.

Then came news that Dr Glenda Simms, gender activist and former executive director of the Women's Bureau had passed away in Canada. Dr Simms was a renowned feminist; she was president of the Congress of Black Women of Canada and was appointed by the Canadian government as president of the Canadian Advisory Council on the Status of Women.

On Saturday, we learned of the passing of the matriarch of the Chen family, Hyacinth Gloria Chen. We shared Mrs Chen's memories in this column some years ago: a single mother who was a bookkeeper at Frenchman's Cove and later opened a small shop in Port Antonio. She then married Vincent Chen who was a wonderful father to her son Michael Lee-Chin, and together they raised a large family. Mrs Chen's guidance influenced her children to aspire to higher learning and entrepreneurship. She was adored as a loving and wise grandmother and quietly reached out to help many. Her contribution to nation building is immeasurable. In her honour, Michael Lee-Chin named the Courtyard at the Royal Ontario Museum Crystal for his mother and later, the Hyacinth Chen School of Nursing at NCU. On meeting her, she immediately became to me as to many others our beloved 'Aunt G'.

Soon after hearing of Mrs Chen's passing, I received the news that my friend and steadfast Board Director of CCRP, Michael Fraser had suddenly passed away. Michael Fraser was the retired Vice President of Sagicor, and it was he who collaborated with them to introduce a health plan for the members of CCRP. This plan literally saved hundreds of lives. Michael gave generously of himself – he served on the board of the Jamaica Cancer Society, the Medical Foundation of Jamaica and supported numerous philanthropic activities. His son Richard says he takes comfort from one of Michael Fraser's regular sayings: "We are not here for a long time; we are here for a good time."

The tributes which have come in from the humble to the high, signal that the late James Moss-Solomon 'walked with kings, but never lost the common touch.' To hear Kadeem Petgrave and Yaneek Page speak of his guidance, to hear Don Wehby speak of his leadership, to hear the Prime Minister speak of his patriotism are testimony of an extraordinary man.

We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families of these unforgettable Jamaicans. May their souls rest in peace.

Photo captions

 

Hyacinth Gloria Chen – portrait at NCU by Viv Logan

Michael Fraser

Tyrone Wilson

 

 

Archbishop Kenneth Richards calls for prayer to Emancipate Jamaica from Crime

From Archbishop Kenneth Richards

Chairman of the Umbrella Group of Churches

Dear Colleagues in Ministry,

The time is at hand! 

Saturday July 30, and the following day, Sunday July 31, are the Two Days designated to Pray for our Nation! It is our sincere commitment to appeal to Our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus Christ, for an intervention that will transform the temporal order in our Nation. Our intercession rests on God's promise:

 …if my people who bear my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my presence and turn from their wicked ways, then I will listen from heaven and forgive their sins and restore their country (2 Chronicles 7:14).

May our hope in Our Lord's promise be manifest by our personal repentance, as we lead our people in repentance. For with Daniel we declare:

 I pleaded with The Lord my God and made this confession: 'O my Lord, God great and to be feared, you keep the covenant and show faithful love towards those who love you and who observe your commandments: we have sinned, we have done wrong, we have acted wickedly, we have betrayed your commandments and rulings and turned away from them. We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our chief men, our ancestors and all people of the country (Daniel 9:4-6).

 

May the Lord make sincere the cry of our hearts, as we seek His providential purpose.

In consideration of our hope that The Lord will "Emancipate" our Island of commonplace murders and criminal activity, may The Holy inspire the petitions we will formulate in raising our voices to Heaven. May each of us humbly pray:

 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer (Ps 9:14).

Peace,

Archbishop Kenneth Richards

Chairman

Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches

   

There is still cause for celebration

 Observer column published MON 4 April 2022

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Jamaica PM Andrew Holness welcomed by
US Vice President Kamala Harris 

We can become so mired in the negative news of the day that we do not celebrate Jamaica’s many wins in recent weeks. We could see that warm genuine smile on the face of US Vice President Kamala Harris as she welcomed our Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Ministers Senator Kamina Johnson Smith and Dr Nigel Clarke to the White House.

Indeed, Vice President Harris remarked, “As a point of personal privilege, I grew up going to Jamaica.  My family — half of my family is from St. Ann Parish in Jamaica. And I know I’ve shared that history with millions of Americans who have their roots through the generations in Jamaica.”

PM Holness noted in his response, “Madam Vice President, let me say that you have been a source of inspiration and great pride for many Caribbean people — in particular, our young women in the region. And we are, indeed, seeing an increase in the political participation of young women. And this diversity in the political space will augur well for the — for the region. “

According to a White House report, “The Vice President underscored that the U.S.-Jamaica partnership is a priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and that this year, the 60^th anniversary of diplomatic ties between our two nations, we are committed to strengthening our ties.”

Our delegation did not return home empty-handed, as Vice President Harris announced a US$20 million grant over a five-year period “to strengthen and expand key industries for Jamaica”, and a further US$10 million for the support of violence reduction with special focus on our at-risk youth.

We saw that Ambassador Audrey Marks was very much at the table of talks and thank her for her efforts in keeping Jamaica front of mind.

It is a big deal that our small country, population three million, is afforded valuable time on the busy agenda of the White House. However, let us not forget that our geographical location at the crossroads of the Americas, our proud history as a strong democracy and our cultural impact are notable factors. Let us take the goodwill and the gifts as a challenge to make Vice President Harris even more proud of her roots, as we tackle crime and violence.

Jamaican leadership

Dr Nigel Clarke 

We were proud to learn that Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke was last week elected unanimously as chairman of the Board of Governors of Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC) for 2022. Dr Clarke was nominated by the governor for Paraguay, Oscar Llamosas Díaz, and seconded by the temporary alternate governor for Canada, Andrew Hurst.

Diaz is quoted by Jamaica Observer Senior Reporter Andrew Laidley as saying, “because of his great leadership and his ability to bolster public finances in his country we are sure that his vision, commitment and leadership will also guide us in this process to renew and strengthen the IDB Group as the needs of our countries and the region currently demands.”

During the White House visit, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen congratulated Dr Clarke on his election as the Chair of the IADB Group’s Board of Governors.

We also learned that the Government is proposing Senator Kamina Johnson Smith for the post of Secretary General of the Commonwealth. Although there are mutterings about our move because the incumbent Baroness Patricia Scotland had been recommended at a Caricom meeting, we should be aware that there has been controversy around her governance of the organization. The election of the Secretary General will be made during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, to take place from 20th to 25th June 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda.

We wish Senator Johnson Smith success in her campaign as she is widely respected as an accomplished professional.

We are in recovery mode

STATIN last week reported that for the fourth quarter of 2021, Jamaica’s economy grew by 6.7 percent. The Institute noted that the services and goods producing industry registered a 9.5 percent growth. STATIN said the relaxation of some COVID-19 measures, including the easing of global travel restrictions and reduced curfews hours may have impacted this growth. Hotels and restaurants represented the fastest recovering sector, with gains of 79.5 percent. May we continue to recover, but please don’t ditch your mask.

Vincent Hosang UWI Awards

Entrepreneurship awards at UWI: Douglas Lindo (Chairman, Vincent HoSang Entrepreneurship Programme), Dr. David McBean, (Executive Director, Mona School of Business and Management), Dr. Leighton Ellis, 3rd Place Winner, Trae-Ana Wilkins, 1st Place Winner, Joshua Anderson, 2nd Place Winner, Christopher Brown, (General Manager, Project Management Unit, Development Bank of Jamaica) and Tamra Thomas, (Programme Coordinator, Vincent HoSang Entrepreneurship Programme).

The Vincent Hosang UWI Venture Competition, offering J$1 million cash and prizes attracted eighty entrants, with eight finalists emerging to deliver their pitch earlier this year. The winners were: first place ZRise, an undergraduate team from CARIMAC who developed an online marketplace platform that connects businesses and brands with Caribbean creative influencers and content creators; second, Fresh Fuel, an undergraduate team from the School of Engineering; third, Team Ouro Preto represented by Dr. Leighton Ellis a UWI Faculty member also from the School of Engineering. Fresh Fuel is a start-up looking into the development of modular anaerobic digestion technology for implementation in Jamaica and across the wider Caribbean, while Ouro Preto is a business that converts organic waste to composting material for gardening and farming purposes.

Other prizes included the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation Award for Corporate Social Responsibility won by Team T&S Delivery and the Baymac Award for Digital Transformation and Implementation which was won by Team Swaze.

At the finals, Mrs. Sabrina HoSang Jordan, CEO, Caribbean Food Delights announced that the HoSang family will be contributing US$20,000 in additional support to the Vincent HoSang Entrepreneurship Programme at the Mona School of Business and Management (MSBM).

Dr. David McBean, Executive Director of the MSBM in his remarks stated, “We remain dedicated to ensuring that the UWIVC moves business ideas from mere concepts up the value chain to commercially viable entities that are market ready as we work towards playing a more integral role in the strengthening of the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

This was supported by representatives of co-sponsors, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation Chairman Patricia Duncan Sutherland and Nari Williams-Singh, Director General of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority.

The excellent Donna-Marie Rowe

Donna-Marie Rowe receiving Gleaner Honour Award for JIS 

We note the departure of Donna-Marie Rowe from the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), after 21 years at the organisation, the last thirteen of which she served as Executive Director. We know that in yesteryear this post is vacated quite swiftly as soon as there is a change of administration. It is a reflection of Mrs Rowe’s excellence that she was retained in the top post for 13 years under both PNP and JLP governments.

When you Google “Jamaica,” JIS is usually near the top, having developed under Mrs Rowe’s watch into a dependable and timely source of information on our various Government ministries and agencies.

Clearly Donna-Marie Rowe will continue to make her mark wherever she decides to go. We will miss her at the JIS, and we are grateful for the high standard she has set at the organisation.

Speaking positivity

 I am posting this very late after publication but it still has value.

Jean

Published in the Jamaica Observer 3 Jan 2022 

Jean Lowrie-Chin

Archbishop Tutu - photo from Africa Report 

What will we write on this clean sheet of 2022? Let us look to the lives of two beloved figures who we lost recently for inspiration: Archbishop Desmond Tutu and actor and comedian Betty White. They loved, they laughed and they never stopped working.

My brag is that my sister Frances met and spoke with Archbishop Tutu when he visited her late boss Bishop Walker of the Episcopalian Diocese of Washington. She enthused, “Bishop Tutu could be the best stand-up comedian in the world” after he left them in stitches at the meeting. So here was a man who did not take himself very seriously, but took the pain of apartheid into his heart and helped to heal his beloved South Africa. At his funeral over the weekend, South African Prime Minister Cyril Ramaphosa said, “He was our moral compass … he was the conscience of South Africa.” The beloved Archbishop requested “the cheapest coffin possible” and asked that his ashes be planted at the root of a tree. Because, of course, he knew that his mortal condition would be giving way to immortal glory to which no funereal trimmings could compare.

At 87, Betty White co-starred as Grandma Annie in ‘The Proposal’ and at 88 was host of the legendary Saturday Night Live (SNL), cracking jokes with style and aplomb. SNL alum Seth Myers posted on social media: “RIP Betty White, the only SNL host I ever saw get a standing ovation at the after party. A party at which she ordered a vodka and a hotdog and stayed till the bitter end.” She was the antithesis of the airhead Rose Nylund she played to the hilt in ‘The Golden Girls,’ celebrating ageing with humour.

You get energy from these great humans. We have excellent examples right here in Jamaica: the late Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, Karl Hendrickson and Audrey Stewart-Hinchcliffe. None of these three had anything much of an inheritance. They built their businesses from the ground up and used every failure to create their next success. That indefatigable patriot Stewart-Hinchcliffe declared when she received the CCRP Living Legacy Award last November, “I am a young 82: retirement is not on my agenda!”

You get energy from stories of pain and persistence, like that of Richard Williams, the father of Venus and Serena Williams. The movie ‘King Richard’ starring Will Smith shows the dedication of a father who would not quit on his dream for his daughters. In their humble household, education remained number one as he insisted that his children should have straight ‘A’s and be multi-lingual to stay in the game of tennis. And so, his daughter Serena wowed the French press when she answered their questions in their language after winning the French Open.

You get energy from working hard but happy. “Have fun,” Richard Williams told his daughters as they headed into their games. Williams wrote on a piece of cardboard that he hung on the fence of the tennis court: ‘If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.’

During our Advent Crusade, our Pastor, Dr Howard Thompson, used the symbols of gift-wrapping to challenge us to offer up ourselves in the New Year. That offering was up to us, he said but we must resolve to make it. Now that is something to consider in a country where there is great mourning for those who passed from Covid and other illnesses, from traffic crashes and most tragic of all, from murder. Even if we have nothing material to give, we can make a call to listen with love and understanding. We can turn off our devices and giving special attention to the children and elderly in our families.

None of us is planning to fail in 2022 but are we doing what our friend Gordon Swaby keeps reminding us to do: “Ignore the noise. Focus and execute.” We need to listen to this young man – whose EduFocal has helped tens of thousands of Jamaican students and posted recently, “1/EduFocal x Transport Authority x BCIC Driver Training platform officially launched. Come January 10, 2022 we will be onboarding more than 10,000 public passenger vehicle drivers on our platform (phase 1). More than 2 years of work went into this. Very happy about today!”

As Mandela said, “It always seems impossible until it is done.” Go for it in 2022!

Growth despite Covid

Dr Nigel Clarke - photo from Loop Jamaica 

Recent Statin findings are that our Jamaican economy grew by 5.8 percent in the quarter ending September 2021, compared to the previous year. Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Nigel Clarke noted, “The services component of our economy, which accounts for approximately 75 percent of economic output, grew by 7.1 percent in aggregate.” Hotels and restaurants enjoyed a whopping 114.6 percent increase.

We have to be grateful to the members of the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC), chaired by Keith Duncan who was also recently re-elected President of the PSOJ. This man is passionate about his country’s development, dedicating his time and his own resources to ensure full disclosure on the status of main drivers of our economy.

Duncan noted this growth and spoke with optimism at last month’s EPOC press briefing. However, his warning of the arrival of the Omicron variant is now coming to pass: “With the inevitable arrival of the Omicron variant of the virus … we could see the anticipated fourth wave of COVID-19 impact. Efforts to contain the spread locally and internationally could see restrictions on economic activities in the domestic and international markets, which could lead to a slowdown in travel and disruptions in production and distribution.”

People who are not vaccinated are not only playing with their own lives, but also with the future of our country.

Back to school

Education Minister Fayval Williams says her Ministry has passed over 800 infant, primary and secondary schools for safe re-opening. Please teachers and parents, our children need to get back to school. One lady who lives in the inner city told me they are “running wild” in the lanes. She said there is a seven-year-old smoking ganja on her lane and that he has absolutely no supervision.

Both UNICEF Jamaica has conducted studies showing extreme learning loss among Jamaican children, and has called on the authorities to reopen schools in an open letter supported by other stakeholders, the Business Process Industry Association of Jamaica (BPIAJ), Jamaica Association of Principals of Secondary Schools (JAPSS), Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC), Jamaica Employers Federation (JEF), Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network (JYAN) and National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica (NPTAJ).

“Jamaica’s children have lost an estimated 1.3 billion in-class hours over 19 months of physical school closures. The learning loss is staggering. The most vulnerable children who struggle to access remote education have been hit the hardest,” noted the letter dated October 2021.

It continues: “We call on the government to urgently ensure the safe face-to-face re-opening of Jamaica’s schools and to remove any barriers that stand in the way, including vaccination targets for schools. .... This has been done elsewhere, and we can do it too.”

Keith Duncan and Donna Duncan-Scott honoured at 2022 AFJ Jamaica Charity Gala

Keith Duncan and Donna-Duncan Scott, Ambassador Glen Holden (ret.) Honored by the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) in Miami New York, NY - April 29, 2022 - Forty years ago, the American Friends of Jamaica, Inc. (AFJ) was founded on the vision that all people should have access to opportunity - a vision that remains unchanged today. The portico at Miami's Perez Art Museum (PAMM) was the venue for the AFJ's 2022 comeback gala on Friday, April 29th.  The sold-out affair honored Ambassador Glen Holden, former United States Ambassador to Jamaica together with Jamaican business leaders and philanthropists, Keith Duncan and Donna Duncan-Scott.  Sponsors included JetBlue, BankUnited, JMMB Group. Glen Holden served as US Ambassador to Jamaica from 1984 to 1993 in his official capacity.  He has since continued his commitment to helping Jamaican people by serving on the Board of the AFJ for nearly 40 years.  Ambassador Holden is recognized throughout the insurance and financial industry for his innovative leadership policies which opened significant industry expansion and developments in effect until today. Keith Duncan is the President of the Jamaica Private Sector Organization (PSOJ) and CEO of JMMB Group.  Donna Duncan-Scott is the Executive Director at JMMB.  Keith Duncan was recognized for his leadership and business impact.  Donna Duncan was recognized for her contribution to humanitarian efforts in Jamaica. To date, the AFJ has dispersed over U$16 Million to valid programs across Jamaica.  Patrons at the Gala enjoyed an inspirational evening as the organization showcased beneficiary programs in Education, Healthcare and Economic Development.  The Holden Legacy Fund, ProjectStar and GK Food Bank were also highlighted.  The night raises funds for the AFJ's discretionary grants and donor advised grants. It was a night of glitz, glamour and fun for a purpose.  The Gala began with island themed drinks and small-bites followed by a three course dinner and the presentation of awards.  Dancing to Grammy nominated band Inner Circle and DJ Richie D made for an energetic and fun party vibe.  Novel table top arrangements featuring things Jamaican, i.e., coconuts, orchids, driftwood, starfish, seashells, sugar cane and the island's famous scotch bonnet peppers made for great table conversations. The silent auction featured a unique collection of art, jewelry, luxury vacation experiences, Jamaican coffee as well as other products from the island.  Artists Richard Natoo and Oneika Russell were present and engaged patrons throughout the evening.  Both artists are from AFJ grantee, Kingston Creative. In attendance were AFJ Board Chair Wendy Hart, Board Members Ambassador Sue Cobb, Ambassador Pamela Bridgewater, Christopher Ohrstrom, Roddy Klotz, Kathleen Newman, Barron Channer, Executive Director Caron Chung, Mayor of Broward County Dale Holness, Consul General Oliver Mair, popular entertainer Walshy Fire. About the AFJ The American Friends of Jamaica, Inc. (AFJ) is a registered 501c3 nonprofit built on the principles of service and philanthropy, established to render assistance in the areas of Education, Healthcare and Economic Development.  The AFJ Grant Cycle begins in November each year and grants are distributed in April of the following year.  The AFJ takes pride in the fact that all former United States Ambassador to Jamaica continue to serve on their Board.    Contact Info The American Friends of Jamaica, Inc. 1697 Broadway, Suite 501 • New York, NY 10019 • T 212-265-2550 Email: info@theafj.org Website: www.theafj.org Social Media Handle: afjcares

This country of contrasts

Observer column published Monday 28 March 2022

By Jean Lowrie-Chin

Even as there were reports of multiple incidents of violence, Jamaica was getting herself ready for a Royal Visit. The front pages spoke of tragedy while the social pages featured highlights of the tour. While I support Prime Minister Andrew Holness's announcement that we are taking the path to becoming a Republic, it was quite in order that we greeted our royal guests with our signature Jamaican warmth. And yes, I am proud that we can organise elegant events on par with any other country.

The arrival of Maverley-born Raheem Sterling, now a leading footballer in Britain, was symbolic of this, our country of contrasts. The joy of the little ones watching the Trench Town match in the presence of the royal couple, signalled their hope for better days. A few days later there was a shooting in Maverley which left three dead and six injured. As I write this, a curfew is in effect in the area.

In one week, there have been three incidents in which teenaged students have lost their lives or been injured: at Morris Knibb High, in a fight over a 'guard ring', at Liguanea Avenue in upper St Andrew where a schoolboy was killed in a cell phone robbery, and at Excelsior High where a student was stabbed in an altercation. Statistics show that Jamaica is losing more lives to violence than countries which are at war.

In the Morris Knibb incident, we asked where are the fathers? There was one weeping mother at the hospital where her son was pronounced dead, and another weeping mother at the police station where her son was taken into custody. It is not only the breakdown of the family that is causing these tragedies, but also the breakdown of the community. Many successful Jamaicans have been raised in single-parent homes, but this was in more peaceful communities where people would socialise and watch out for each other's children.

When we see the danger our children face, we realise that this is not just a job for the security forces. We need more social workers to collaborate with communities in averting violent confrontations. They could conduct parenting sessions in church halls to help strengthen families and engage pastors and mentors to provide support. Churches have now reopened, and the role of pastors and resolute church leaders is now more important than ever. They can be an oasis for troubled individuals and a support system for families and schools.

We are seeing even more resolve in the Jamaica Constabulary Force to clean up their own ranks, with the arrest of four police officers and the search for others in connection with a gang. This gives us hope, as it will build trust in the JCF, crucial for their crime-fighting efforts.

JAID promotes self-advocacy

The Jamaica Association on Intellectual Disabilities (JAID) welcomed the implementation of the Disability Act at their annual Forum last Friday. Executive Director Marilyn McKoy introduced their programme to promote self-advocacy by persons with disabilities, who now have the law firmly on their side.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Digicel Foundation are sponsoring the education programme. We heard from the Acting Country Representative for JICA Toru Togawa, that JICA Alumni Association in Jamaica has supplied knowledge transfer programmes for the past two decades towards capacity building of the staff of JAID associated schools.

Social worker Deborah Manning and moderator Brithney Clarke facilitated discussions with students at the Randolph Lopez School of Hope and a graduate, Andrew. They related incidents where transportation personnel would not accept their Government permit which entitles them to a discounted rate. Lovelette said as she struggled to explain her condition to a health care worker, she was told, "Gwaan home, yu no have no sense."

Persons with intellectual disability (PWIDs) also have difficulty with the police who display a lack of patience with them. They believe more signage could help PWIDs in understanding directions. They are asking for sensitization of police, army and security guards.

The JAID will be launching a campaign with the theme, 'Allow Me'. It features PWIDs showing their achievements and appealing to society to allow them and others like them to enjoy the rights that all human beings deserve. Nigel Davis, Special Olympics gold medallist, was featured on the job at Parang Industries proudly explaining his duties.

We were entertained by drummers of the School Of Hope – their music teacher George Jobson directed the group, whose mature and harmonious performance showed us the excellence which can be achieved by persons with disabilities who are taught with kindness.

Chain of Hope mending hearts

Last week we caught up with Emma Scanlan and Nola Phillpotts Brown of the Chain of Hope charitable organisation at the Jamaica Children Heart Centre, Bustamante Hospital. Chain of Hope funds visiting cardiologists and special care nurses to conduct surgery on children born with heart conditions. The ultramodern facilities for which the Digicel and Shaggy Foundations were key donors, began operations in 2017 and have treated 150 children since then. The local team is led by Dr Sherard Little, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon whose dedication has been remarkable.

Farewell Great Women

We lost two great Jamaican women recently, and I was blessed to have known them.

Evelyn Smart, lifetime Civil Servant, author and coordinating founder of the Women's Political Caucus, was an unremitting activist for women's rights. She celebrated our women parliamentarians in two books, Jamaican Women on the Road to Parliament: From the 19^th to the Early 21^st Century and Electoral Winnability: Women's Key to Parliament. Evelyn Smart was co-founder of the Rose Leon Memorial Trust, past president of the St Andrew Business and Professional Women's Club; a fellow of the Jamaica Institute of Management; member of the Women's Social Service Club and the Women's Liberal Club. A Thanksgiving Service for Evelyn Smart will be held at the Lyndhurst Methodist Church on Thursday.

 

Gerda Theobalds was our brilliant English Language and Literature teacher at Convent of Mercy 'Alpha' Academy where she served from 1950 to 1992. She was so affirming of our creative talent that I probably would not be writing this column today if she had not encouraged me on this path. My classmate Margery Campbell Newland spoke of her 'depth of intellect and breadth of knowledge' at her Thanksgiving Service last week. Margery went on to teach at Alpha and Mrs Theobalds mentored the younger teachers including another classmate Dr Denise Wehby Aloma. Margery quoted Denise's description of Mrs Theobalds: "She was memorable, beautiful, priceless. She emboldened me … what a gift she has been to thousands of students." After her retirement, Mrs Theobalds continued to conduct English classes well into her eighties at her home.

 

We send condolences to the families of Evelyn Smart and Gerda Theobalds. May their beautiful souls rest in peace.