Bright day for democracy

by Jean Lowrie-Chin - Observer column for MON 7 March 2016

As we resume this column after a two-week break, we look back to three weeks ago, when we held our breath to hear whether the PNP would agree to participate in a national debate.  They refused, not understanding that Jamaica had matured beyond the tribal politics of die-hards following party over policy, no matter what.  It mattered.  Why would you employ an applicant who refused to attend a job interview?  The national debate was the job interview Jamaicans wanted so they could see who would deserve to be paid out of their hard-earned taxes.

Jamaica's new Cabinet after the swearing-in at King's House on Monday 7 March 2016

The “articulate minority” demonstrated that they are indeed no minority – it is estimated that over one million Jamaicans are on Facebook, including members of our engaged Diaspora. On Election Day, folks posted photos of their inked fingers on Twitter and Instagram with the hashtag #articulateminority. We had checked the websites of both the PNP and JLP and thought that the PNP’s was more engaging; however, they did not follow through on the social media platforms.  The JLP balanced social and traditional media, with those Observer and Gleaner “wrap-arounds” during election week, a stroke of genius.

We welcomed the new young faces in both political parties, mentored by those elders who wisely affirmed the importance of succession planning.  Juliet Holness proved to be a campaigner in her own right, and ensured that she answered well those allegations about a family member. Andrew Holness also gave a comprehensive account of the financing of their Beverley Hills home. The backlash from both allegations was a significant setback for the PNP campaign. How could they not remember how the “Don’t draw mi tongue” ad hurt the JLP in 2011? People are far more interested in real benefits like the increased tax-threshold of $1.5 million, than personal attacks.

Andrew Holness made none of those mistakes he made leading up to the December 2011 Elections, when he had given his followers expectations of an early December election, and called it between Christmas and New Year.  This time, it was former Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller who led an un-merry chase for an Election Date.

And so, Jamaica now has a new JLP administration.  We applaud the inaugural address of Prime Minister Andrew Holness, a man who stood stronger than ever at that impressive Half Way Tree Rally just a few days before the general elections. Jamaicans should heed his sober observations at King’s House which should apply to every organisation, every business, every project: “With this mandate, there is no majority for arrogance, no space for selfishness, no place for pettiness, no room for complacency, and no margin for error.”

These are serious words, pointing to the heart of Jamaica’s developmental issues.  Since Independence, we have squandered our precious resources, and driven away valuable but disillusioned citizens.  Both political parties have fomented tribalism to serve their selfish ends, and have killed the dreams of solid citizens, simply because they were not interested in wearing green or orange hearts on their sleeves. 

Let us hope that this leadership will be able to continue and strengthen the national partnership programme, identifying those leaders who have a proven track record of supporting their communities and country, and encouraging our young talent to stay and contribute.

We salute the Electoral Commission and the Electoral Office of Jamaica who worked tirelessly to pull off well-organised Nomination and Election Days, despite the time and budgetary constraints.  Hon Dorothy Pyne-McLarty and Orrette Fisher have once again showed their mettle as strong and impartial leaders of the electoral process. 

Let every candidate, every party worker, every behind-the-scenes organizer be proud of their contribution to our country’s democratic process.  Those massive campaigns, especially the rallies and the on-the-ground organizing required extraordinary planning and energy. 

Let us now transfer that zeal to the running of our beloved Jamaica.  JLP General Secretary Horace Chang is quoted as saying of Prime Minister Holness, “he is committed to a government of performance, transparency and sound principles.”  We are hopeful.

Kudos St. Catherine High

In this Year of Mercy, it is interesting to note that Andrew and Juliet Holness both attended St. Catherine High School, which was founded by the Sisters of Mercy.  The Mercy philosophy influenced the school’s activities, in which young Andrew Holness was deeply involved.  He excelled, becoming valedictorian and headboy, and taught at the school for two years. 

My friend journalist Erica James-King recalls that Andrew Holness and Juliet Llandel were her schoolmates.  The school’s most legendary Principal, the now retired Sister Mary Paschal Figueroa, Grand-Aunt of Dr Peter Figueroa and Professor Mark Figueroa made a strong mark on the governance of St. Catherine High. 

Inductees in the St Catherine High School Hall of Fame in 2013, (from left) then Opposition Leader Andrew Holness; Deacon David Yee-Singh (representing Sister Mary Mercedes Doorly); Troy-Marie McDonald (who received on behalf of Bishop Kenneth Richards); Lascelles Williams; and Wilbert Davis (representing Kenneth Neale), pose with the citations presented at the function during the school’s 65th anniversary banquet.

Erica notes, “The principals who served while Andrew and I were in school were Ms Madge Anderson (now deceased) and Mrs Christabel Fuller. St. Catherine High School presented the best nurturing environment that any adolescent could have asked for or required. It is an ideal place for preparing one for life’s ebbs and flows. Although Sister Mary Paschal (after whom our school’s auditorium is named) was not our principal, we were often regaled with stories about her love for the students and for God.”

The brilliant Sister Mary Paschal RSM

She continues: “Our alma mater’s motto, “Prayer and Work Conquer all” is a mantra for me and I am sure it is still a guiding principle for Andrew Holness and thousands of others who have passed through the doors of that noble institution. Our motto gives us the right perspective on life, reminding us that we will achieve greatness if we maintain the right balance of placing God first and ensuring we are diligent, productive and effective in our labour.”

“Our school song, “Dear St. Catherine High”, also reiterates the guiding principles of the school motto. For example it has a line that says: “Prayer and Work shall ever conquer while to you (our school) and God, we are true.” St. Catherine High made us confident that it was our duty to make a positive change in the life of others, and there is nothing in life that we could not achieve if we pursued that goal prayerfully, honestly and industriously.

“The holistic teaching and guidance St. Catherine High offers has kept engendering social responsibility in its students and graduates. The school impresses on all its students that we are responsible to God, our community and country and we should take that responsibility seriously. Structures are also in place to encourage students to engage in volunteerism and by extension community development. Through core curriculum and extra-curriculum activities, the school also encouraged and still encourages students to be advocates for their rights and the rights of disadvantaged persons. For instance: the Debating Society (of which Andrew and I were a part, though we were not in that club at the same time), Inter-School Christian Fellowship, Key Club, Drama Club, Red Cross, Historical Society, Spanish Club etc. gave students an outlet for expressing themselves and their talents while engaging in community development.”

Congratulations to the Sisters of Mercy and St Catherine High – you can now claim your contribution to the high office of Prime Minister.

H1N1 Prevention Tips

Passing on this message from a friend...

Dr. Vinay Goyal is an MBBS,DRM,DNB (Intensivist and Thyroid specialist) having clinical experience of over 20 years. He has worked in institutions like Hinduja Hospital, Bombay Hospital, Saifee Hospital, Tata Memorial etc. Presently, he is heading our Nuclear Medicine Department and Thyroid clinic at Riddhivinayak Cardiac and Critical Centre, Malad (W).

The following message given by him, I feel makes a lot of sense and is important for all to know:

The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible to avoid coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).

2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or slap).

3. * Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt)... * H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/ nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4. Similar to 3 above, * clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. * Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas to clean nasal cavities), but * blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population. *

5. * Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (Amla and other citrus fruits). * If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.

6. * Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can. * Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.

I suggest you pass this on to your entire e-list. You never know who might pay attention to it - and STAY ALIVE because of it...

18 needy families receive homes in Portland Cottage from Food For The Poor

St. Catherine, Jamaica – March 4, 2016: Eighteen families in Portland Cottage, Clarendon, are now proud homeowners, thanks to a donation of approximately J$11.52 million made by Chris Davitt and Craig Ruppert, along with their friends from the United States, and Food For The Poor (FFP).

Davitt and Ruppert, who have set one of their lives' goals as donating annually to Jamaica, travelled to the island on February 12 with a team of 36. The group, assisted by staff members of Food For The Poor Jamaica, built the houses on February 13 and 14.

David Mair, Executive Director of FFP Jamaica, said he was pleased that these two gentlemen, along with their family and friends - who form the mission group 'Davitt/Ruppert Family and Friends' - had created an annual calendar event to journey to Jamaica and construct houses for the homeless.

"It costs approximately J$640,000 to construct one house. With Mr. Davitt, Mr. Ruppert and their family and friends' initiative of constructing 18 houses, this sums up to approximately J$11.52 million. This is a grand donation!" Mair said in a recent interview.

Mair said the entire group epitomizes what it means to be your brother's keeper.

"These Americans are not only keepers for each other, but they are keepers for people living thousands of miles away from them in the island of Jamaica. Perhaps, if there were more individuals like them, more homeless individuals would be reached and our country would have a much better standard of living," Mair added.

Ruppert said he was always eager to come to Jamaica and build houses for families in need.

"We are always happy to come. I have been coming for about 17 years, and we bring our family and friends. They come. They work hard. They learn from the experience and we go back as better people with life in a better perspective," Ruppert said in an interview during the construction of the houses.

Davitt said that he has great compassion for the needy people living in Jamaica. It is for that reason and more, he keeps coming back to assist.

"We come and have a wonderful time with the people, especially the contractors from Food For The Poor. There are beautiful persons in the country and it makes us feel really great and appreciated each time we reached out to help them," Davitt said.

Davitt, Ruppert and their supporters have partnered with FFP Jamaica to construct five schools, more than 165 houses, a home for the elderly, as well as to equip a community with a sustainable fishing village project and to install two water projects since 2001.

Their efforts have improved the health and living conditions of many throughout Jamaica.  In 2014, the group built a six-unit building for the students and teachers of Lewis Town Basic School in St. Elizabeth and constructed a house for a resident in the area.

The 18 families who received Portland Cottage houses were grateful.

Odette Sawyers, one of the recipients, said, "I am really thankful this evening. I am so happy, I am overwhelmed. I am so happy for that and so happy to receive this special gift. I am honoured and thankful."

Christine Dennis, 75, another housing recipient said, "I am so grateful that you could give me a house. I needed a new house so much. My house is so beautiful.  Thank you for the wonderful gift you have given me."

-end-

PHOTO CAPTIONS

BREAKING GROUND AT PORTLAND COTTAGE:   Team leader, Chris Davitt (second right) along with other volunteers from the United States, preparing material to construct one of the foundations for 18 houses that were built in Portland Cottage, Clarendon during their mission trip on February 13.

18 HOUSES IN 2 DAYS: Volunteers from the United States and members of Food For The Poor Jamaica gather for a group photograph after completing the construction of 18 houses in two days in Portland Cottage, Clarendon. 

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...follow through sets us apart

Jean Lowrie-Chin
   

Director of Elections advises Governor-General of Election Results

KINGSTON, Jamaica: The Director of Elections on Tuesday, March 1, communicated with the Office of the Governor-General advising that the Jamaica Labour Party has won majority of the seats in the General Election held on Thursday 25 February,  2016.

In addition, documents from Returning Officers – the B21 form indicating which candidate has won and the Writ of Election for each constituency – have been sent to the Clerk of the Houses of Parliament.

-30-

Release from the Electoral Office of Jamaica

JAMAICA ELECTION DAY WORKERS VOTE MONDAY 22 FEB

Next Monday, February 22 will be voting day for Election Day workers, the Police, Military and Polling Station Security Assistants.  Polling will take place from 8am to 4pm.  The EOJ has been contacting Election Day Workers who have been registered to vote and is asking those who have not yet been contacted to call the EOJ or visit their nearest Constituency Office to find out where they are assigned to vote.  The EOJ has asked the media to remind these persons that they are able to vote only on Monday 22, February.

Minister Paulwell - kudos to EOJ, Security Forces.. and Opposition!

It was encouraging to receive the following release,  communicating commendations from Minister Phillip Paulwell re an virtually incident free Nomination Day.   -  Jean Anita

Feb 10,  2016: Chairman of the People's National Party Region 3, Minister Phillip Paulwell has said the smooth operation of nominating candidates across the Corporate Area is testimony to the preparation and tireless work of the Electoral Office of Jamaica and the security forces.

Minister Paulwell also noted that the Campaign Team in Region 3 has been engaged in training and mobilization techniques which were reflected in the record breaking turnout of PNP supporters across Kingston and St. Andrew in a peaceful and disciplined manner.

He also extended congratulations to the PNP candidates particularly those who were first time nominees. Minister Paulwell said all the candidates displayed maturity and leadership which will be critical in the second term.

The Region 3 Chairman says the Region's Campaign Management Team will continue to engage workers, indoor and outdoor agents as well as supporters in an effort to ensure that the Election Campaign Guidelines are adhered to and so that Jamaica can continue to be proud of its mature electoral system.

Referring to a traditional Jamaican adage "One hand can't clap" Minister Paulwell said the Opposition Jamaica Party must also be commended for their part in contributing to an essentially incident free nomination process.

   

Visit to Trinidad

Excerpt from Jamaica Observer column - 1 February 2016

Short visit to Trinidad

Prof Trevor Jackson

It was a bitter-sweet visit to Trinidad last week, as we attended the funeral of the Professor Trevor Jackson, who retired five years ago as Head of the UWI Department of Geology.  It was heartening to see the strong support of family and friends who brought comfort to his widow, Jean and his children. 

A trip to the capital Port-of-Spain revealed the tremendous development that has taken place in the few short years since I last visited the country.  Digicel Foundation Trinidad CEO Penny Gomez and Chairman Garvin Medera described the excellent projects they have been leading over the past three years, particularly in the area of special needs.  Trinidad has been well attuned to this cause, with over thirty special needs organisations.

Trinidad and Jamaica have some challenges in common: crime, road deaths and the Zika virus. There are the various editorials and discussions around these issues, and as I observed our commonalities, I remember how disappointed my dear father was when Jamaica voted against a Caribbean Federation.  How much richer, better organised and more educated we would be if we had focused on regional development and less on political control of various fiefdoms.

May our leaders look beyond their backdoors to the promising horizon of regional unity and help CARICOM to fulfil its rich potential. 

48 Hours of Bob!

Digicel celebrates music legend's 71st birthday with 48-hour live stream

Kingston, Jamaica – Friday, 5th February 2016: Total communications and entertainment provider, Digicel, will this year celebrate music legend, Bob Marley's 71st birthday with a 48-hour live stream.

The stream, which will start 12:00am on Saturday, 6th February, will feature exclusive Bob Marley content inclusive of the 2015 Redemption Concert that was held in downtown, Kingston, plus highlights from this year's Bob Marley birthday celebrations at the Bob Marley Museum, the Marley documentary by Kevin McDonald, as well as interviews and music videos.

The highlight on the live stream will be this year's Redemption Live concert that will be held at Sabina Park on 7th February, starting at 7pm. Boasting a mix of veterans and reggae crooners, the impressive lineup will see the likes of Bugle, Coco Tea, I-Octane, Jesse Royale, Leroy Sibbles, Morgan Heritage, Nesbeth, Sizzla and Tanya Stephens, among others taking the stage come Sunday night.

Gramps Morgan, from the 2016 Reggae Grammy-nominated, Morgan Heritage said; "We are looking forward to Sunday as we haven't performed in Jamaica for a while, especially in Kingston. Our fans can expect to hear some of their favourite Morgan Heritage hits as well as new songs from our Grammy-nominated album. We want everyone to come out or tune in to the live stream as we know with Digicel, it will be a first class production."

Peter Lloyd, Director of Group Marketing for Digicel Caribbean and Central America said; "Much like Bob Marley's music, the Internet transcends geographical borders and we're very happy to celebrate the iconic reggae star's birthday with the world through our 48-hour live stream."

48-hours of Bob will be streamed on the Digicel Jamaica YouTube page- www.youtube.com/DigicelJamaica and available worldwide inclusive of Digicel's 32 markets.

Digicel and Tuff Gong International have been partners for several years; the partnership gives the telecommunications and entertainment company access to exclusive Bob Marley content and use of his image and music.

Memorial Service for the late Ambassador of Spain, H.E. Aníbal Julio Jiménez y Abascal

  February 1, 2016.  The Embassy of Spain has organised a Memorial Service of Thanksgiving for the late Ambassador of Spain, His Excellency Aníbal Jiménez Abascal, to be celebrated at the Stella Maris Catholic Church on Friday, February 5, 2016, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Ambassador Jiménez Abascal, who passed away suddenly on December 11, 2015 while on vacation in Madrid., and whose remains were subsequently cremated, began his assignment in  Jamaica in August  2014.  At the time of his death, he was also Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis.

He is survived by his wife, mother and sister.   

Angela Bodden-Watson Administrative Officer, Political Section Tlf:  +876 929 5555/ 764 0063    Fax: + 876 929 5555 Email: angela.bodden-watson@maec.es 6th Floor, Courtleigh Corporate Centre 6 – 8 St. Lucia Avenue,  Kingston 5

Embassy of Spain Follow us on Twitter (@EmbajadaEspKGN

Great Tour of Duty, Ambassador Paola Amadei!

Members of IWF Jamaica with Ambassador Amadei (centre): Thalia Lyn, Minna Israel, Allison Peart, Jean Lowrie-Chin at Farewell Reception last Monday at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel

EU Ambassador Paola Amadei completed an energetic four-year tour of duty in Jamaica and other Caribbean and Latin American countries.  She celebrated Jamaica’s 40-year partnership with the European Union last year; we have benefitted magnanimous funding in the areas of poverty reduction, education, agriculture, housing, health and gender equality.  

The wonderful gentlemen who supported the #HeforShe Campaign, endorsed by Ambassador Amadei

Her passion for gender equality was a special feature at a farewell event held in her honour last week.  We were invited to sign our support at the UN’s HeforShe.org website, and all the gentlemen in the room joined her for a “HeforShe” moment, captured on my Twitter page @souldancing.

Ambassador Paola will not be abandoning her ties with our region. She heads to Germany where she will take up the post of Executive Director of the European Union-Latin America & Caribbean (EU-LAC) Foundation.  We thank her for her generous engagement in Jamaica and send best wishes to her and her family.

CCRP - Caribbean Community of Retired Persons - a caring organisation

CCRP Caring Committee members (from left) Irene Walter, Chair and Hannah Dixon Secretary, present gifts to Golden Age Home resident, Beverly Brown. Also sharing the moment is Supervisor of Cluster D at the Golden Age Home, Sheron Bowley.

Kingston, December 22, 2015: CCRP, the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons, has reconstituted and enlarged its Caring Committee in order to offer greater support to its members.  CCRP, founded in 2010 by Communications Consultant and Seniors Advocate Jean Lowrie-Chin, is a not-for-profit membership organisation created to encourage and support the rights and welfare of retired persons.  Recognising that, as we age, our needs become more varied and unique. The CCRP's mission is to both anticipate and respond to some of these 'special needs'.

Many of these needs result from the natural vulnerabilities caused by ageing – deteriorating health and mobility, economic challenges, (especially faced by persons on fixed incomes or no income) bereavement, and loneliness. Prof. Denise Eldemire-Shearer, Chair of the CCRP and Director of the Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre reports that the elderly (60 years and older) constitute 11.3% of the Jamaican population today, and are projected to rise to 25% by 2050. Over 50% of the elderly are alone, single or widowed.  

The mandate of the CCRP's Caring Committee is to provide direct support, care and attention to CCRP members who are considered vulnerable for reasons of ill health, loss of family member(s), loneliness or other situations requiring palliative interventions.  Membership of the Caring Committee has been expanded to 30 with 15 constituting a core group willing to play an active role in bringing care and comfort to the wider membership when called upon.  

In the past, the Caring Committee had concentrated on marking Centenarian Day every year, undertaken in collaboration with the National Council for Senior Citizens. The committee also brings cheer to the Golden Age Home at Christmas by making a presentation of gift items contributed by members at their annual Christmas social for donation to the residents of the Home. 

This year was no different as members brought boxes of items of toiletries to donate to the home.  These were presented to the residents on Friday, December 18 by the Chair of the Committee, Irene Walter and the Secretary Hannah Dixon. They were accompanied by CCRP Administrative Assistant, Angela Foote.

The reinvigorated committee intends to be much more proactive and responsive to members' needs, helping without hindering, remaining sensitive to the committee's mission of empowering members "to live life to its fullest".

For further information please contact:

Dorett Linton
CCRP Jamaica
Tel. 469-1944

Jamaica Stock Exchange – to the world!

Excerpt from Jamaica Observer column by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Marlene Street-Forrest

Congratulations to the dynamic Marlene Street-Forrest, General Manager of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, and her hardworking team: their extraordinary efforts have earned them Bloomberg’s rating as the Number One performing stock exchange in the world in 2015!  Marlene Street-Forrest has noted international interest in Jamaica’s firms:  Heineken NV’s purchase of Red Stripe/Desnoes & Geddes saw those shares soaring by 500 percent and a Mexican company acquired majority shares in the Burrowes family’s Dolphin Cove.

Legendary Myrtle Bank Hotel (Getty Images)

The Jamaica Stock Exchange started operations in 1969, founded by Willard Samms, Raglan Golding, Edward Gayle and Anthony Lloyd.  The palms around their building at 40 Harbour Street bring back memories of driving with my Dad along the palm-lined driveway of the Myrtle Bank Hotel which was at that very location. 

How the business district of downtown Kingston has developed since then – it holds great promise, as does the tourism, agriculture, real estate and manufacturing sectors of Jamaica. The world is discovering the potential of our beloved country, the largest English-speaking Caribbean island, set squarely in the centre of the Americas.

The late Basil Buck

Years ago, I decided to become a ‘penny stockholder’ in the companies served by our agency – this gave a deeper understanding of the businesses, as I listened to the concerns of shareholders large and small at the annual general meetings.  My late friend Basil Buck, owner of Buck Securities, organised for these share purchases and made a few suggestions which turned out to be excellent. 

Then, when we handled the publicity for the Junior Market listings of the Lasco companies about five years ago, we suggested reserving shares for teachers, nurses and police officers, for whom our shop had developed affirmation programmes.  The awareness sessions went well, bringing in hundreds of new participants in Jamaica’s Stock Market.

The Bloomberg website notes that the JSE has launched the Caribbean’s first online trading platform.  This has inspired Denis St. Bernard, a London-based business consultant to start “a diaspora-focused investment company that would pool contributions.” St. Bernard noted that the opportunities are with known Jamaican brands such as GraceKennedy.

Sushil Jain

Investment guru Sushil Jain has been an enthusiastic supporter of Blue Chip Jamaican companies listed on the JSE.  “Why wouldn’t you want to have people like Don Wehby and Patrick Hylton working for you?” he asks. Let us make financial literacy a priority so that ordinary Jamaicans can tap into every opportunity for wealth creation.

Beautiful RJR Sports Foundation Awards

Excerpt from Observer column -  Mon 18 Jan 2016
By Jean Lowrie-Chin

The RJR Foundation Sports Awards, organised by the meticulous Yvonne Wilks-O'Grady and her team, left us filled with pride. There they were, the fastest man and woman in the world, Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Price, being crowned as Jamaica's Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year.  There was cancer survivor, Novlene Williams-Mills, who roared past the American leader in 4x400 World Games event in Beijing to take the Gold Medal for Jamaica, showing us the courage and perseverance that can come from our darkest moments.

Guest speaker UWI Vice-Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles, lauded Jamaica for our "most incredible contribution to sport". In recalling the resolve of the Swiss to preserve their reputation as the world's top watch-makers, he advised that sports in Jamaica "must be institutionalized and industrialized" to maintain this excellence. He said that what has happened to West Indies cricket must never happen to Jamaica and that we had a responsibility to come together to safeguard our dominance.

As he spoke, I recalled how a Chinese spectator pleaded with me for my Jamaican flag at the Beijing Olympics.  Are we gearing for Rio?  Is there a project to embrace our craft workers so that our vibrant Jamaican colours will shine in Brazil? How far ahead are our sports tourism plans? Let us heed Sir Hilary, thus ensuring that all Jamaicans can benefit from our phenomenal sporting successes.

   

“With no apology, I thank God!”

Don Wehby

by Jean Lowrie-Chin - excerpt from Jamaica Observer column 

Over 400 members of the GraceKennedy senior team and scores of others via the internet looked expectantly at their Group CEO, Don Wehby, as he stood to address them earlier this month.  He began by thanking them for their contribution to the Group’s success and then stated, “With no apology, I thank God for His blessings.”  Don commented that he was surprised at the number of calls he had received afterwards, applauding those words.  “I grew up in a home that believed in prayer and worship,” he said. “This was supported by my teachers at St. George’s College, and I am grateful for my faith.”

There are many leaders in the private and the public sector like Don Wehby, whose practices in the workplace are underpinned by their Christian beliefs.  This week they will be among the scores of Jamaican leaders who will gather for the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast which will have as its theme, “Righteousness Exalts The Nation”. 

What a challenge this theme is to our leaders, especially those in the political sphere.  The undertone of desperation that has entered the political conversation leaves us wondering if righteousness has been left out of Jamaica’s political equation. For our parties and other organisations to produce strong and decent leaders, they must ensure that their representatives are trustworthy, so they can inspire the trust of others. 

I will never forget the call for help from a terrified police superintendent of blessed memory.  He had pulled over a car in St. Ann, and discovered contraband and millions of dollars in cash.  As a strong Christian, an Elder in his church, he prepared a detailed report on the matter, stating the sum that was in the vehicle.  Lo and behold, he received ugly threats from fellow officers who were at the scene.  They demanded to know why he had not reported a smaller amount so they could all split the difference among them.  They also made threatening phone calls to his wife, a respected teacher.  Sadly, the following year I heard that this relatively young man had died – it seems that his heart could not withstand the stress.

Many of our leaders have had to face similar dilemmas, wondering whether they should just follow the negative status quo, or step out and show the courage of their convictions.  It is not easy, nor is it simple.  I continue to believe that one cannot change the system if one stays out of it.  Therefore, we have to commend those who take the bold step of entering politics.  More than ever, we have to affirm representatives like Councillor Venesha Phillips of the August Town area, who has openly condemned criminality, and has led the citizens of the area in a march against it.

It is interesting how many political leaders tiptoe around the issue of criminal gangs when they make their major speeches.  The formula of putting thugs in charge of tightly packed tenement yards seems to be a cynical method of keeping a seat.  In our garrisons, the phenomenon of destitute mothers having six, seven children when they can hardly feed one, begs a question. Surely their representatives know that family planning clinics offer free assistance to such persons.

As our church leaders plan this National Leadership exercise, we need to ask them to follow through on the strong and moving messages delivered at these events. They have the influence, and should not only call out leaders at the prayer breakfast, but also from every pulpit in Jamaica.

Dr Lucien Jones (left) in prayer with colleagues at World Remembrance Day Service for victims of road crashes

Dr Lucien Jones who is an Elder at the St. Andrew Parish Church, shared these thoughts of theologian Oswald Chambers on prayer in his internet ministry: “It is not so true that ‘Prayer changes things’ as that prayer changes me, and then I change things.”

We are looking forward to the presentation of this year’s speaker, Pastor Glen Octavius Samuels, President of the West Jamaica Conference of Seventh Day Adventists. The event will be broadcast live on television and radio. Please gather in your homes, schools, and workplaces to participate in this moving event, and encourage your family, friends and colleagues to make their own pledge towards a more righteous Jamaica.

Indeed, the words of our National Pledge written by The Rev. Hugh Sherlock, reminds us of our responsibility: “I promise to stand up for justice, brotherhood and peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think generously and honestly, so that, Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty, fellowship and prosperity, and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race.”

Pope Francis' Recommended Resolutions

Shared by Archbishop Emeritus of Kingston,  Jamaica,  Most Rev Donald Reece

FROM THE DESK OF POPE FRANCIS:  TOP NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

1.       Take care of your spiritual life, your relationship with God, because this is the backbone of everything we do and everything we are.

2.       Take care of your family life, giving your children and loved ones not just money, but most of all your time, attention and love.

3.       Take care of your relationships with others, transforming your faith into life and your words into good works, especially on behalf of the needy.

4.       Be careful how you speak, purify your tongue of offensive words, vulgarity and worldly decadence

5.       Heal wounds of the heart with the oil of forgiveness, forgiving those who have hurt us and medicating the wounds we have caused others.

6.       Look after your work, doing it with enthusiasm, humility, competence, passion and with a spirit that knows how to thank the Lord.

7.       Be careful of envy, lust, hatred and negative feelings that devour our interior peace and transform us into destroyed and destructive people.

8.       Watch out for anger that can lead to vengeance; for laziness that leads to existential euthanasia; for pointing fingers at others, which leads to pride; and for complaining continually, which leads to desperation.

9.       Take care of brothers and sisters who are weaker….the elderly, the sick, the hungry, the homeless and strangers, because we will be judged by this.

HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO YOU!

+djr

   

Tips for successful implementation

Mariame McIntosh Robinson receives a presentation from CEO of GK Insurance Segment, Grace Burnett after her inspiring address at the Company's Annual Business Conference last Saturday at the Jamaica Conference Centre

Mariame Robinson’s great guidelines

(Excerpt from Jean Lowrie-Chin's Jamaica Observer column published Jan 11, 2016)

The brilliant Mariame Robinson condensed a strong seminar into a half-hour presentation at a GraceKennedy conference last week.  We all sat up straighter when we heard her creds: Jamaican Rhodes Scholar, graduating from Oxord, MIT, and Harvard.  The management guru observed that our country and region were rich with ideas for great projects and strategies, but we have been falling short on the execution of these ideas.

In the coming year, we would do well to adopt her implementation guidelines:

1.     Define the metrics – what does success look like? Use process metrics to execute on time and on budget.

2.     Manage people effectively.  Coaching and development should involve getting feedback from team members, so they have ownership of the project. Ensure that the discussion is balanced and around observed behaviour, not just feelings.

3.     Suggest solutions to arrive at your ultimate goal of flawless execution.

4.     Develop a communication plan to build trust.  Celebrate early wins.

5.     Issue resolution: think about who you need to bring into the room to get advice and counsel.  Constantly ask, why? This will help to clarify issues.

She stressed the importance of integrity, to avoid the derailment of implementation. “You don’t want to be cutting corners and you should always demand the full truth.  It is important to ensure that everything is front and centre,” she advised. She noted that since we spend so many of our waking hours working, we should organise towards the goal of flawless implementation.

May I add that there are now so many nifty apps on our smartphones that we have many tools to manage our time, budgets, communication.  Please do not be shy to ask for advice on how to use these apps.  I have had many ‘aha’ moments, thanks to my young team members who are so adept with the technology.  Once you familiarize yourself, you will be surprised at how much time you can save.  

Post Script - It was announced today that Mrs McIntosh Robinson will succeed Mr Courtney Campbell as CEO of GK's First Global Bank. 

A New Year of Mercy – for self and others

Observer column by Jean Lowrie-Chin - published 4 Jan 2016

Pope Francis

With the New Year, comes a new opportunity to be our best selves. Pope Francis has appealed to the world to make this a Year of Mercy.  Let me suggest that we apply this mercy to our own selves – many of us are carrying guilt, hurt, regrets that have been weighing us down for years.  We owe it to ourselves to let these go, confiding in a pastor, counsellor, trusted relative or friend.

Then there is the whole business of fitness and appearance with the phrases ‘body-shaming’ and ‘fat-shaming’ popular on social media.  Carrie Fisher, who played Princess Leia in the first Star Wars trilogy, reappears at 59 years of age as General Leia in ‘The Force Awakens’, and was told on social media that, “You didn’t age well”.  Her tweeted reply is a reminder to us all: “Youth and Beauty are not accomplishments, they’re the temporary, happy by-products of time and/or  DNA…”. 

Another famous movie star, the late Audrey Hepburn, gave these tips for becoming more attractive: “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”

Psychologist Dr Leahcim Semaj

Psychologist Dr Leahcim Semaj offered advice regarding weight loss resolutions in a media interview last week.  “Instead of resolving to lose 50 pounds in the year, it is better to plan to lose one pound per week,” he said.  That is certainly less pressure, with the identical result!

My wise sister Frances Beard, on observing my tendency to feel responsible for too many issues, begged me to remember, “If your name is not on it, don’t pick it up!” Even if your name is on those multiple emails you receive daily, it doesn’t mean that you have to take responsibility for every cause.  Indeed, you will render yourself unable to serve any cause properly if you take on too many. 

The Sisters of Mercy who taught us at Alpha Prep and Academy, were keen on us memorizing the Works of Mercy, in which we may find ideas for our resolutions.  The Corporal Works of Mercy:

·       Feed the hungry

·       Give drink to the thirsty

• Clothe the naked
• Shelter the homeless
• Visit the sick
• Visit the imprisoned
• Bury the dead

The Spiritual Works of Mercy:

• Admonish the sinner
• Instruct the ignorant
• Counsel the doubtful
• Comfort the sorrowful
• Bear wrongs patiently
• Forgive all injuries
• Pray for the living and the dead