Electioneering, Jamaican-style

FRESH FACES IN POLITICS

Paula Kerr-Jarrett, who will represent the JLP for the Eastern Hanover constituency

PNP's Dr Dayton Campbell, a medical doctor, who will contest the St Ann North West seat

JEAN LOWRIE-CHIN | Observer Column | Monday, November 14, 2011

Jamaica's multifaceted personality sparkles at election time. Oh yes, this is democracy grooving to a dancehall beat, bells and trumpets. In a single breathless day, there is an exciting panoply of sights and sounds, thanks to the omnipresent media. Let's take last Thursday. In the morning, we read that Dr St Aubyn Bartlett would be replaced by Dr Sapphire Longmore-Dropinski as the JLP candidate for the Eastern St Andrew constituency. By evening, we see Dr Bartlett on the news saying that his supporters do not want him to go, so he may be staying.

The Observer website has photos of the PNP motorcade in Portland, with a lot of orange-garbed folk protruding through windows. On television, we see KD Knight swaggering on the campaign trail like a Jamaican John Wayne.

We hear Danville Walker explaining on morning radio that he saw a transport deficit for the Central Manchester police and asked Stewart's to donate vehicles, whereupon MP for the area Peter Bunting sent up howls of protest. By evening, it is announced that the vehicles will go to the commissioner's office for his decision on where they would be assigned.

We enjoyed a refreshing interlude when three young, fresh-faced candidates spoke on Cliff Hughes' Impact about their resolve to make a difference. The luminous and energetic Paula Kerr-Jarrett, who will represent the JLP for the Eastern Hanover constituency, explained her belief that "to those that much is given, much is required". As a daughter of privilege, the attorney-at-law is not your typical politician, but she explained that service had always been a way of life as she grew up in a home where her parents Chris and Michelle Bovell were fine exemplars of patriotic philanthropy. She spoke about spending time "listening" to the people and reflecting on their positive attitude despite their humble circumstances.

The two young PNP candidates were also inspiring. Mechanical engineer Leonard Green, who will be vying for the Western St Thomas constituency, and Dr Dayton Campbell, a doctor, who will contest the St Ann North West seat are accomplished young men who had humble beginnings. They were both born in the constituencies for which they are running, and in recalling their personal struggles, want to give a hand up to the residents in their respective areas. Dr Campbell, who is only 28 years old, is now studying for a law degree.

On the news, we saw the brilliant Senator Marlene Malahoo-Forte announce her plans to serve Westmoreland, the parish of her birth. The former Mannings High School head girl is proving to be an energetic JLP campaigner for the Central Westmoreland seat. However, one should not underestimate the PNP's jovial candidate Roger Clarke.

The new candidates, PNP's Damion Crawford for West Rural St Andrew and JLP's Collin Virgo for South Manchester, also acquitted themselves well on CVM TV's Direct. Soon we will find out if the land of Bob Marley will embrace a Rastafarian representative. Like Dr Dayton Campbell, Virgo is only 28 years old.

Shakespeare must have witnessed our election cut and thrust to declare "all the world's a stage". On Thursday, Luther Buchanan, the PNP's member of parliament for Eastern Westmoreland, also planned to apologise publicly to JLP caretaker Don Foote for tearing his shirt in a fracas during the 2007 election campaign. Later in the day, the plot thickened as we were told that there was a demonstration against Mr Foote's representation by JLP supporters.

As we approach November 20, the second day of the JLP Annual Conference when we expect Election Day to be announced, we will be seeing much excitement and drama. Our prayers are with the brave members of the JCF as they work to keep the peace.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/Electioneering--Jamaican-style_10148556#ixzz1dgvSmMYd

‘SOULDANCE’ LAUNCH IN NEW YORK THIS WEEK

Guest of Honour Ambassador Audrey Marks

JEAN LOWRIE-CHIN LAUNCHES 'SOULDANCE' IN NEW YORK THIS WEEK

 

A wave of book lovers, tastemakers and literary luminaries are expected to show up on Wednesday evening at Ruder Finn in midtown Manhattan's East Side for the New York book launch of Jean Lowrie-Chin's Souldance, a collection of poems and writings.

 

"Souldance is a lavish, well-seasoned buffet of some of the most tantalizing writings coming out of Jamaica presently", author and Olympian Devon Harris gushed. "This short and sweet literary feast explores the subtle sensibilities that make up the very complex tapestry called Jamaica", he continued.  

 

Lowrie-Chin is a gifted writer with a perceptive eye for detail.  Her early rural and urban experiences have enabled her to soulfully and skillfully dance through over thirty years of an enduring love affair with Jamaica. Sometimes her lexicon takes on the flavor of rock steady and at other times it embraces a rhythm of reggae.

 

In her epic poem Yu See Mi? she explodes with the  unabashed poignancy of dancehall. Souldance is a delightful and delicious read as it journeys through Jamaica from coast to coast, sometimes making crucial stops to pay homage to outstanding Jamaicans like Miss Lou, Usain Bolt and Jessie Ripoll.

 

Wednesday's launch is being hosted by Gail L Moaney, executive vice president, Travel & Economic Development, Ruder Finn Inc. Guest of Honor  is Jamaica's ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency the Hon. Audrey Marks. Other high profile Jamaican guests visiting New York during the week are also expected to attend the event. 

 

Jean Lowrie Chin will kick off a reading session at the launch and she will be ably assisted by Jamaican actor and playwright David Heron who has just returned to New York from a California TV commercial shoot. A press day for Lowrie-Chin will follow on Saturday when she will have the opportunity to tell Jamaican residents in several US cities about her book.  

 

Souldance is carried by Ian Randle Publishers and the book is available at leading book stores as well as at amazon.com. The launch is being executed by Dave Rodney and Anthony Turner of Images Media LLC in association with Rhum Barbancourt.

  

Contact:

Dave Rodney, (212) 767-9000 or diademata@aol.com

Anthony Turner, (845) 206-5906 or anthonyhturner@gmail.com

Howard Aris - our family Hero

Howard Aris celebrates Usain Bolt's first World Record in May 2008 - l-r Howard Aris, Yvonne Wilks, Paula Pinnock-MacLeod, Usain Bolt and yours truly.

Howard Aris, our family hero

We are deeply saddened at the death of that fine Jamaican, Howard Aris, who passed away suddenly while travelling with the PNP campaign in Portland yesterday.

For our family, Howard Aris is a hero. When we were children, he volunteered to take my wheelchair-bound Dad for physiotherapy at his Tangerine Place office. Mr Aris would drive to our home, collect my Dad, take him for therapy and drive him back home, refusing to charge extra. His expert care added many more years to our father’s life, enabling him to continue his accounting practice at home. We mourn with his beloved wife Sandra, other members of his family and the sporting fraternity that he served so well.

No US restrictions on Jamaican food exports

Kingston, Thursday, November 10, 2011: The U.S. Embassy in Kingston confirms previous media reports that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has placed no restrictions on Jamaican food producers who wish to export to the U.S. In a press release yesterday, the PNP reported that temporary bans had been imposed on some Jamaican food processors after they were inspected by the FDA.

The FDA inspection the PNP referenced was a routine check of agricultural products' production and processing, and was coordinated through the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries of Jamaica, the Bureau of Standards of Jamaica, and the exporters themselves. Such inspections assist Jamaican exporters by assuring that the FDA's standards are met, and that Jamaican goods will be eligible for importation and sale in the United States. FDA inspection is a service provided at no charge to either the Government of Jamaica, or Jamaican exporters.

Citing concerns about the mischaracterization of the FDA inspector's visit, the agency decided to suspend the assessment having completed only one of four scheduled inspections of Jamaican food processors. The FDA will determine if and when the remaining three companies will be rescheduled for inspection.


The Public Affairs Section

United States Embassy - Kingston

142 Old Hope Road, Kgn. 6

Tel: 702-6161; Fax: 702-6348

E-mail: kingstonpress@state.gov

Good living creates employment

Businesses like this generate employment. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)

BY JEAN LOWRIE-CHIN | Observer Column | Monday, November 07, 2011

WE read where a commentator reflected on the cost of a fancy dinner, the plight of the poor and in the end opted for a couple of patties. It all sounds very admirable until you realise that in his figuring, he said he would have given the waiter a $1,200 tip. That $1,200 tip would have probably given the waiter's children bus fare and lunch money for the next day.

It makes us stop and think about events like Caterers' and Restaurant Week. The cynic may flip through the pages of delicious offerings and dismiss them as fluff, but businesses like these generate many thousands of jobs across Jamaica.

How will this economy keep going if we don't keep employers in business? Of course, we shouldn't spend what we don't have, but passing on a few dollars in a store or at a restaurant is like giving way in bad traffic — keep the flow going, keep the stress at bay.

This current political campaigning is like a second Christmas for non-garrison communities — yet another argument against garrisonisation. Wake the garrisons and tell the people — let the politicians court you, not cow you! Let them buy you T-shirts, caps, lunches, dinners and drinks. Let them fix those disgraceful roads and tear down the zinc fences, creating work in the communities. Elections may not pass this way for a very long time again, so "make hay while the sun shines".

Seriously, the gap between rich and poor is getting ridiculous. We have to ignore those minimum wage guidelines and make up our minds to pay our workers properly so they can afford even the transportation to get to work. We have to ensure that our helpers receive proper meals when they are on the job, because Lord knows what awaits them when they get home. The adage that "Charity begins at home" has new meaning now — we have to save the dignity of our sisters. Make sure that what you are offering is a job, not "a work".

Even if you can't create a job, look out for our up-and-coming entrepreneurs. It is heart-warming to see teens now sporting Bridget's sandals. Bridget Brown is a creative Jamaican lady who sent herself to Italy to learn the basics of shoemaking, and has been producing stylish sandals for over 20 years, now supplying a second generation of Jamaican women.

My friend Jan Young Sang is so proud of a friend's Solomon Gundy that she buys lots of bottles as gifts. But that budding entrepreneur has been facing roadblocks. She was encouraged by her admirers to do proper labelling and market her product to the stores. She did so and has been waiting in vain over many months for word on the label from the authorities. Why are we so hard on each other?

We know that buying online is on the rise, but Jamaica is where we live, and this is the economy that needs every dollar we may have to spend. We hope the bureaucrats will simplify their approval processes — supporting local businesses means more jobs. We have great role models. Digicel CEO Mark Linehan commented at a World Project Management Day event on Thursday: "A sense of urgency underpins our strategy. We are constantly seeking ways to challenge ourselves." We need to feel this sense of urgency in the public, as well as the private sector.

COMMENTS
Kwame Gordon-Martin
11/7/2011
Every politician knows that our government is too bureacratic, that too many procedures are triplicated to keep too many employed, that it's a drain on resources and a waste, that if we are more efficient in service delivery we could modernise our government without increasing spending, etc, etc, etc. Yet no one does anything about it, EVER! When these things change you will know that we have elected serious people instead of the children we have now scurrying about on either side.
Ruby Shim
11/7/2011
One of the ways we can increase employment is to support our local industries. Whenever I do my supermarket shopping I always ensure that the products I purchase are locally grown/manufactured. Furthermore, the foods we import are not as flavourful as our home grown produce. I have had visitors from abroad tell me this fact so many times, so why are we buying foreign fruits and vegetables when we go shopping.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/Good-living-creates-employment_10096278#ixzz1d8CXexoN

Kronik now at World #2

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Message from Peter Brooks - Father and Manager of STGC Old Boy Kronik:

Thanks for everyone that has been voting for KroniK's "Shake It" on the Music World Radio Top 20 Chart for the past few weeks. Through your help the song has risen to # 2in the charts. We have done well so far by garnering in excess of 45,000 votes this week. We still need your help. Ensure that you vote right now by visiting http://www.topchoons.com/vote.htmland casting your vote for a fellow Georgian (Class of 2007) and my son. We also need your further help by asking you to forward this mail to as many people as you can this week so we can make a major push to get the approximately 60000 votes we need in a week to get to #1. Please remember each person only has 1 vote each week so we need it spread to as many people as we can. Not only will this be of great assistance to the artiste but it will be a great accomplishment for Jamaica, as it will be historic for a dancehall song to top one of the most diverse charts in the world . You can check out the video for the song on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emn7nuz1NRg&feature=channel_video_title to see what you are voting for or check out his blog address at www.kronikmuzik.blogspot.com to learn more about him. It literally takes seconds to vote but the impact can be far reaching. Thanks for your continued help.                                             

Kind regards
Jean

Unlocking garrisons to end a national disgrace

BY JEAN LOWRIE-CHIN | Observer Column | Monday, October 31, 2011

DURING the years that my widowed mother was a small shopkeeper in Savanna-la-mar, she would lend tables and lamps to both political representatives to hold their meetings by the fountain in front of the courthouse. Once, a disgruntled party faithful demanded to know why she helped out the other side and she replied, “You all buy at my shop: I can't support one and not the other.” They laughed it off, and all was well. Perhaps in another time or place, her shop would not have seen morning!

This is why we were heartened when Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared in his inaugural address, “It is time to end garrison politics… It is important that people living in these areas get to see other political representatives without the objection of enforcers. Let us start the process by getting the leaders to walk together in these areas of exclusion.”

Mr Holness wisely observed, “It is not only that the rest of Jamaica is locked out of these communities; I am concerned that the residents of these closed communities are locked off from the rest of Jamaica… Criminals must never be seen by the community as protectors. Once there is this integrated and shared national vision, garrisons will no longer be havens for criminals.”

Indeed, we must address the lukewarm response from young professionals to voter registration – they are disillusioned by this national disgrace of garrison politics. The PM referred to them as “casualties to the politics of exclusion”. Women in particular are intimidated by this kind of politics, and we have heard enough to know that sometimes those who venture out are given some of the most challenging constituencies that place them between “a rock and a hard place”. We will never forget that discussion at the Rose Leon Lecture Series when Olivia “Babsy” Grange and Jennifer Edwards (on behalf of Portia Simpson Miller) spoke of the abject conditions of their constituents and their uphill battles.

I surprised a group recently when I appealed to them to “find a politician to love”. I explained that there were indeed good, earnest Jamaicans who had entered politics and who were being demoralised by the negative labels we pin on them. If we try to identify and support them, we would send a strong signal to their negative counterparts.


When it comes to national issues, our business leaders have no difficulty in getting together to tackle them. This is the level of leadership which we should require from the two major political parties. The Partnership for Progress, which has been renamed the Partnership for Transformation (PFT), requires that both political parties join hands with major national stakeholders in business, labour and civil society for Jamaica's advancement. This seven-year effort has been stalled by “cute” politics – we must not allow this to happen again. No wonder productivity remains low while unemployment is skyrocketing!

I have been having interesting discussions with friends from either side of the political fence. They are well-meaning, but some are so fanatical that they are convinced they have the patent on our solutions. Come on now, time to unload the tribalist baggage. We enjoy the colourful chat – “loader man” did not faze us – but when it moves from banter to vitriol, remember the communities you leave to digest your messages, after you have packed up your handsome SUV and headed out. Did you leave behind thugs with cynical instructions? Did you sow discord that will split families asunder?

No true Jamaican can wish ill on an individual, family or community, in their quest for political power. That is not the dance of democracy: it is the dance of death.

We want to hear our politicians encouraging their followers to seize the day, rather than each other's democratic right. In reminding Jamaicans of their own power, we create a more governable society. Let us support those leaders who are stirring ambition in our people, versus those who are stoking division.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/Unlocking-garrisons-to-end-a-national-disgrace#ixzz1cSopiJPN

COMMENTS (7)
Nejeeper KNG
10/31/2011
@PL saying that you are neither with nor against the Security Force is illogical. Your explanation of a garrison is someone who is in denial. Statements like “The problem is not of such political, it’s more a social and economic problem” is laughable. Garrisons are enforced by area leaders/dons who will kill in their effort to control who people in the constituency votes for. I grew up in KGN 11, this is 1st hand account. Social and economic issues are a problem but it didn't create garrisons.
Nejeeper KNG
10/31/2011
@PL BOGLE I grew up in Olympic Gardens; I remember when Keith 'Trinity' Gardner use to put on his full black suit. I know what police brutality is. Police brutality is an unfortunate state of affairs that affects countries worldwide not just JA that is why countries like Canada and the US has “Internal Affairs.” PL I cannot be against the police they need our support. I hope you are not condoning criminality and I hope that you will report crime for peace’s sake and our children’s sake.
PL BOGLE
10/31/2011
@Nejeeper KNG. "PL BOGLE are you with or against the security force?" Neither! I'm with equal rights and justice. My friend I grew up in Olympic Gardens the same community that Mr. Holness is asking Portia Simpson Miller to walk with. So I’m speaking from personal experience. The problem is not of such political, it’s more a social and economic problem, if not addressed from the root cause, and then all efforts will be useless. Inequality and injustice that's embedded in the system is the root cause of garrison communities. Every man woman and child that’s living in these communities is exploited because of their social and economic status, by politicians, the security force and criminal elements.
Chipmunk L.
10/31/2011
Great article!
Now is the time for Politicians to walk the walk in cleansing the Island of dirty folly-tricks and practice clean politics. Jamaicans are ready for positive actions which will change the dynamics within the Country.
The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition needs to clarify their goals for the betterment of life in Jamaica and whichever member does not want to toe the line should be booted out regardless of tenure or perceived clout.
Jamaica first ! Now and always.
Ruby Shim
10/31/2011
It's obvious that some of our politicians do not want an end to garrisons - this is how they retain their seats in the house of parliament. They dont want to educate the people in these constituencies for fear that they might wise up to them and vote them out. Why wont the Opposition leader walk with the Prime Minister to demonstrate her willingness to end this garrison type politics.
Luv Quest
10/31/2011
This article is so true. I'm surprise at the lack of comments to this emergency.
Nejeeper KNG
10/31/2011
@Jean Lowrie-Chin thank you so much for this article, the title is a national emergency. There is an article today “we must do better on selecting party candidates.” The thing is in a garrison constituency electorates are not given the choice to evaluate a candidate’s ideology/policies and make a choice. The choice is made for them by area dons. Where is the legitimacy in our political system? Some of us are so accustom to this tribal politics that we accept this backwardness as the norm.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/Unlocking-garrisons-to-end-a-national-disgrace#ixzz1cSovtLao

Coconut Oil helps Alzheimer's patients!

Important message from Neville 'Gladdy' Hoo:                                             How worried should drug companies be about supplements eating into their monopoly profits? A lot, as this story will show. Please share it with anyone you know who is suffering from Alzheimer's or is worried about it.

Of course, just about everyone worries about Alzheimer's. It currently
afflicts 5.2 million people in the US and is the seventh leading cause of death. The cost of treating it is estimated at $148 billion. Mary Newport, MD, has been medical director of the neonatal intensive care unit at Spring Hill Regional Hospital in Florida since it opened in 2003.

About the same time the unit opened, her husband Steve, then 53, began
showing signs of progressive dementia, later diagnosed as Alzheimer's
Disease. Many days, often for several days in a row, he was in a fog; couldn't find a spoon or remember how to get water out of the refrigerator, she said.

They started him on Alzheimer's drugs--Aricept, Namenda, Exelon--but his
disease worsened steadily. (It should be noted that the latest research
shows that the various Alzheimer's drugs, like Aricept, have proven
disappointing, with little real benefit and often distressing side effects.) When Dr. Newport couldn't get her husband into a drug trial for a new Alzheimer's medication, she started researching the mechanism behind Alzheimer's. She discovered that with Alzheimer's disease, certain brain cells may have difficulty utilizing glucose (made from the carbohydrates we
eat), the brain's principal source of energy. Without fuel, these precious
neurons may begin to die. There is an alternative energy source for brain
cell fats known as ketones. If deprived of carbohydrates, the body produces ketones naturally.
But this is the hard way to do it; who wants to cut carbohydrates out of
the diet completely? Another way to produce ketones is by consuming oils that have medium-chain triglycerides. When MCT oil is digested, the liver
converts it into ketones. In the first few weeks of life, ketones provide about 25 percent of the energy newborn babies need to survive.

Dr. Newport learned that the ingredient in the drug trial which was showing
so much promise was simply MCT oil derived from coconut oil or palm kernel
oil, and that a dose of 20 grams (about 20 ml or 4 teaspoons) was used to
produce these results. When MCT oil is metabolized, the ketones which the body creates may, according to the latest research, not only protect against the incidence of Alzheimer's, but may actually reverse it. Moreover, this is also a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease,Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease), drug-resistant epilepsy, brittle type I diabetes, and type II (insulin-resistant) diabetes.

So Mr. Newport, not being able to get into the drug trial, started taking
the coconut oil twice a day. At this point, he could barely remember how to
draw a clock. Two weeks after adding coconut oil to his diet, his drawing
improved.

After 37 days, Steve's drawing gained even more clarity. The oil seemed to lift the fog, and in the first sixty days, Dr. Newport saw remarkable changes in him: every morning he was alert and happy, talkative, making jokes. His gait was still a little weird, but his tremor was no longer very noticeable. He was able to concentrate on things that he wanted to do around the house and in the yard and stay on task, whereas before coconut oil he was easily distracted and rarely accomplished anything unless he was directly supervised.

Over the next year, the dementia continued to reverse itself: he is able to
run again, his reading comprehension has improved dramatically, and his short-term memory is improving; he often brings up events that happened
days to weeks earlier and relays telephone conversations with accurate
detail. A recent MRI shows that the brain atrophy has been completely
halted.

Let's take a moment to consider what actually happened here. Synthetic
(patentable) Alzheimer's drugs have failed. A drug company reluctantly
decides to put a non-patentable natural substance (medium-chain
triglycerides derived from coconut or palm) through an FDA trial. It works.
But, darn it, a smart doctor figures out that a natural food can be substituted for the super-expensive drug.

Not only that, the ketones from natural coconut oil last in the body longer than the drug version--eight hours instead of three hours. This is enough to make a drug company start worrying about its future. What if this natural health idea really catches on? Goodbye to monopoly profits!

Coconut oil can be found in many health food stores and even some grocery
stores. One large US chain sells a non-hydrogenated (no trans-fat) brand of
coconut oil in a one-liter size (nearly 32 ounces) for about US$7.

It can be purchased in quantities as small as a pint and up to five gallons online. It is important to use coconut oil that is non-hydrogenated and contains no trans-fat. We would also strongly encourage the use of virgin oil (chemicals used to extract non-virgin oil are potentially dangerous, and better still, virgin organic, still quite reasonably priced.)

For more information, see Dr. Newport's website. Sadly, you will not find any information on ketones, or the use of coconut oil or MCT oil, on the Alzheimer's Association website.

Coconut oil is not the only natural product that has the potential to turn Alzheimer's around. We will cover some other ones, and drug industry efforts to steal some of them, in a future issue.

http://www.coconutketones.com/biography.html‪
  
NB - Coconut oil is widely available in Jamaica's shops and supermarkets.

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Jamaica will miss USAID's Dr Karen Hilliard

Dr Karen Hilliard - our loss is Mongolia's gain

Dr Karen Hilliard could have chosen to direct the USAID Mission in Jamaica over the past four years from her comfortable office. However, her passion for Jamaica’s development sent her into remote areas of the country, actively supporting projects in health, agriculture, education and governance. Never one for cliché-laden speeches, she gave engaged commentary and advice on a myriad of subjects.

At a farewell event for her, then PM Bruce Golding remarked on her deep concern for our needs, as she sometimes appeared to be “Jamaica’s ambassador to the USAID”. Dr Hilliard combined diplomacy with refreshing pragmatism. Our loss will be Mongolia’s gain and we wish her a fulfilling tour of duty there, and many future visits to this land – we will never forget those extra miles she travelled with so many of us. If only we could love ourselves as much as our international friends love us. Thank you, Dr Hilliard!

Crawford, Grace and Staff get Gleaner thumbs up

We honour you! Gleaner Honour awardees Vivian Crawford (left), executive director of the Institute of Jamaica, who received the award for arts and culture, and James Moss-Solomon (right), chairman of the Grace and Staff Community Development Foundation which received for voluntary service, pose with (at back from left) Frances Madden, general manager, Grace and Staff; Douglas Orane,GraceKennedy Chairman; Christopher Barnes, Gleaner Co Managing Director, Elon Beckford of the Selection C'tee, and GK Guidance Counsellor Curtis Sweeney.

Vivian Crawford and members of the Grace and Staff Community Development Foundation joined The Gleaner at the newspaper's North Street, Kingston, office yesterday to accept their 2011 Honour awards for outstanding service to Jamaica.

Crawford was honoured in the category of arts and culture for his role in the preservation and promotion of Jamaica's indigenous cultural expressions.

Grace and Staff earned the award for voluntary service, for its support of community development and the care of the less fortunate.

Crawford, during a luncheon at North Street, was all smiles in accepting his award.

"This is generosity at its highest. Christmas in October," he beamed.

"I must express my everlasting gratitude and thanks to The Gleaner Company for this never-to-be forgotten award. May you grow and grow from strength to strength. I know that your continuity to nation building will be of immense benefit to Jamaica."

Crawford, who has been the executive director of the Institute of Jamaica for the past 11 years, is a leading expert on Jamaican culture.

Accepting on behalf of Grace and Staff, chairman James Moss-Solomon thanked the directors of The Gleaner and the selection committee for considering his foundation worthy of such an honour.

"We are extremely grateful on behalf of the many thousands of staff members of GraceKennedy who for the last 32 years have contributed voluntarily from their salaries to make this foundation a success," noted Moss-Solomon.

Transforming the inner city

Through staff donations matched by the company and support from external organisations, Grace and Staff has transformed the lives of more than 2,000 students from inner-city communities who needed an opportunity to realise their dreams. Additionally, the foundation is involved in a number of social and economic transformation projects in inner-city communities bordering the company's offices.

Since 1979, The Gleaner Honour Awards has been recognising the initiative, accomplishment and courage of individuals or organisations that have contributed significantly to improving quality of life in Jamaica, whether in arts and culture, public service, sports, education, science and technology, health and wellness, entertainment, voluntary service or business. The Man of the Year is also selected during a gala luncheon.

Karin Cooper, The Gleaner's business development and marketing manager, said this year 151 nominations were received and, on October 6, the selection committee awarded a nominee from each category, except education.

"Today we honour stalwarts in these two areas of endeavour through our 2011 awards. These recipients have joined a long list of distinguished persons and organisations whose achievements have been recognised through this programme," stated Cooper.

JAMAICA'S NEW CABINET

Prime Minister Andrew Holness (centre front row) with members of his Cabinet (in front from left) Robert Montague, Olivia Grange, Dr Ken Baugh, Shahine Robinson, Audley Shaw, and Pearnel Charles. In second row (from left): Dr Horace Chang, Clive Mullings, Ed Bartlett, Arthur Williams, Delroy Chuck, Mike Henry, Rudyard Spencer, Dr Christopher Tufton, Daryl Vaz, and Dwight Nelson.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/The-PM-s-deck_10017398#ixzz1buBvMn1m

Memorable Quote from PM Holness' Inaugural Address

"I want you to understand that the sum total of our potential exceeds our problems; that our collective capabilities are greater than our challenges but it is only through participation that these capabilities and this potential can be seized, harnessed and realized for the good of Jamaica. I know we can do it. I know we can practice a better politics. I know that a better politics which allows broad participation and honest conversation with the electorate will lead to better more sustainable policies to manage our economy and create jobs and opportunities. This is how we create a better Jamaican. Better politics, better policies, better people.

"I know the days ahead will not all be easy. I have found comfort in some words accredited to Mother Teresa. It reflects how I have always lived my life, sums up how I intend to conduct myself in this office.

'Paradoxical Commandments
People are sometimes unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, no doubt you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.'

"I pledge to give my best, and with faithful prayers and hard work we will succeed. May God bless you and may God bless Jamaica."

Tony Deyal 'contemplays' Trini PM's shoe option

Jamaica Gleaner Online | 22 October 2011

Tony Deyal, Contributor

The previous Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) prime minister (PM), Patrick Manning, had a faith healer who was his closest confidante. The present PM, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has turned into a feet heeler. In the middle of an International Food Festival held two weeks ago at the poolside of the Trinidad Hilton, the prime minister called on women to start wearing "flats instead of heels".

Maybe they served sole food at the festival and she had too much of it, but whatever the reason, the PM provided a non-sequitur that seemed to be her idea of food for thought. According to a media report, the PM, while "showing off her own bejewelled slippers", boasted, "The people around me are saying I'm going to set a new fashion trend. So, ladies, check my feet! I'm going flat because it's healthier and I'm getting a lot of jokes about it because I would normally wear heels, but God is great, my toes are open and my shoes are flat ... . So it's a new fashion trend. Let's try it throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Ladies, I'm sure you'll feel far more comfortable splashing around in flats instead of heels, so be more comfortable and enjoy it!"

While some of my Trini friends came up with old jokes about open-toed women, I prefer to wonder whether the PM's advice would fall flat or would women say to heel with her? First, let's look at the age-old symbiosis of women and shoes. Most men have at most three pairs of shoes - one black, one brown and one sneaker. We don't understand, and I have always wondered, "What's this with women and shoes?"

Footwear sales up

According to Cosmo, "While sales of most things have plummeted thanks to the recession, footwear sales have gone up compared to the same period last year." Cosmo continues, "Buying a pair of shoes has always had near-supernatural effects - like instantly updating an outfit from last year or just making you feel hotter than hell - but that doesn't fully explain how footwear is beating the odds in sales. Trust science to have the answer: Turns out, we've always been wired for shoe lust, even when the going gets tough."

Cosmo quotes Martin Lindstrom, a branding expert for Fortune 100 companies and author of 'Buyology: Truth and Lies About Why We Buy'. His view is that when you try on or buy any kind of apparel, your mood is boosted. He explains, "The neurotransmitter dopamine is released, providing a feel-good high, similar to taking a drug. The dopamine increases until you swipe your debit card." Usually, the high then flatlines, and guilt starts creeping in ... except, that is, when the item you're purchasing is a pair of shoes. Lindstrom believes that shoppers rationalise shoes as a practical buy - something they can wear multiple times a week - so they hold on to that pleasurable feeling longer. The research also shows that with high heels you get an extra lift.

However, it's not just dopamine at work. Lindstrom says that the mood-altering traits of shoes also come from another brain reaction. Buying new footwear stimulates an area of the brain's prefrontal cortex termed the collecting spot. According to the Daily Mail, "The average woman owns 20 pairs of shoes and more than half of them - worth around £400 in total - are never worn, sitting in the wardrobe waiting for the right occasion, which never comes." Suzanne Ferriss, PhD, editor of 'Footnotes: On Shoes', maintains, "Shoes are a collector's item, whether women realise they perceive them that way or not. Just think of how they're often stored artfully on shoe trees and shelves. They're like sculptures." As a result, collecting each type provides a mini-adrenaline rush similar to the satisfaction a stamp collector gets when he acquires a rare find. In that sense, Imelda Marcos, former first lady of the Philippines, might have been excessive but far from unusual. Instead of a case of the 'blahs', when depressed she got Blahniks.

So where do high heels fit in and why are they getting even higher? It is not just all pumps and circumstance. The research shows that it would take a much higher power than the T&T PM to get women to give up their heels for flats. It seems that it is biology, and not advertising at work. Cosmo quote Helen Fisher, PhD, an anthropology professor at Rutgers University, "Like most animals, we're wired to associate height with power. High heels can literally raise your status because you're taller when you wear them."

'Measure of class'

Dr Fisher says the heels carry historical significance as well, adding to their appeal. In previous centuries, only the wealthy wore high heels - everyone else had practical footwear to do manual labour. "Shoes were a measure of class," says Fisher, "and we still have a bit of that mindset ingrained in us."

The real deal of the high-heel appeal comes down, like everything else, to sex. Dr Fisher says that when a woman wears stilettos, she assumes a primal mating pose called 'lordosis'. "Her butt lifts and her back arches," Fisher insists. The sex angle is also reinforced by Dr Daniel Amen, author of The Brain in Love. He says that our minds are structured in a way that may associate feet with sex. "The area of the brain that communicates with the genitals is right next to the area that deals with the feet," says Dr Amen. "These regions share neural crosstalk, which may be why shoes can be erotic." It is possible, with advancing age, the crosstalk becomes muted, but Marian Keyes, author of The Brightest Star In The Sky, is certainly one person who hears it loud and clear. She flatly refuses to wear anything but high heels. "I never wear flats," she stoutly maintains. "My shoes are so high that sometimes when I step out of them, people look around in confusion and ask, "Where'd she go?" and I have to say, "I'm down here."

Psychiatrists now talk about 'Shoe Obsession Disorder' (SOD). That means that if anyone, be it PM, prince or pauper, goes to someone with that condition and tells her to wear flats, her natural response would not be "Shoe!" but "SOD off"

Tony Deyal was last seen writing a footnote to his shoe column. He says that Christian Louboutin's shoes make him see red, he loves the sound of Jimmy Choo's shoes, and he could whisper "Ferragamo, Ferragamo" all night long.

Remembering Ralf Bender's Genius

I broke my jade bangle - a treasured gift from my Mother-in-Law. I took the pieces to that brilliant jeweller Ralf Bender - and look what he made!

 

Out of brokenness comes beauty - if we just keep the faith!

 

 

 

Madame Rose Leon Centenary

This Thursday, October 20, 2011 is the Centenary of the birth of an extraordinary Jamaican woman, Madame Rose Agatha Leon, the first woman Minister of Government and the only politician to have held a post in the Cabinet of both JLP and PNP governments.
 
Rose Agatha Leon was born in Kingston, Jamaica on 20th October 1911, the daughter of Dr. R.J. Huie and Mrs Huie.

  She was educated at Central Branch School, Wolmer's High School for Girls, and the Abyssinian School of Cosmetic Chemistry.

Before entering the political arena, Madame Rose and her husband, Arthur Alexander Leon established a manufacturing company, Leon's Beauty Products in 1939, and later the decades old Leon's School of Beauty.

She joined the Jamaica Labour Party in 1944 and was elected Chairman of the Party in 1948.

  Madame Rose was an ardent party activist and fundraiser, even seconding her own staff members to support the JLP's office and purchasing furniture from her own pocket.

  The late Lady Bustamante said of her, "No one in either the JLP or the PNP has been able to match the length or quality of her service for 12 years [as chairman of the party]."

After winning the Western St Andrew seat for the JLP in the 1949 general elections, Madame began eight distinctive years of service as a Member of Parliament.

  After the Ministerial system was established in the Jamaican Constitution in 1953, she was appointed Minister of Health and Housing.

In 1960, Madame Rose left the JLP, but was unsuccessful in running as an independent candidate.

  In 1967, she was invited to join the PNP by Rt Hon. Norman Manley, winning a seat in the Local Government election in 1969.

  She served as Chairman of the KSAC Roads and Works Committee from 1969 to 1972, and as Deputy Mayor of the KSAC in 1971.

In 1972, Madame Rose regained the West Rural St Andrew seat for the PNP and was appointed Minister of Local Government.

  She lost the seat in 1976 to Dr Mavis Gilmour and was appointed Special Advisor to the Minister of Social Security until her retirement from active politics in 1980.

This allowed the manufacturing dynamo to expand her businesses and dedicate herself to the cause of local manufacturing and women's causes.

  She was a founding member of the Jamaica Manufacturers Association, serving as its President in 1967.

  She became one of their longest serving Board members and was made a Life Member in 1993.

She was also a founding member of the enduring Jamaica Federation of Women, along with Lady Huggins and Mrs Mary Morris Knibb.

Madame Rose was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother and mentored hundreds of young students who became successful business owners in Jamaica's burgeoning beauty industry.

  Her daughter, Mrs Gloria Millwood succeeded her as head of the manufacturing and training businesses and her grand-daughter Dr Gisele Leon-Ritch is a well-known authority on nutrition and wellness. 

Among Madame Rose Leon's many awards are the National Honour of the Order of Distinction – Commander Class, the Woman of Distinction Award from the Bureau of Women's Affairs in 1985 at the end of the UN Decade for Women, and Special Awardee as one of the country's longest serving Justices of the Peace.

Madame Rose was also honoured by:

-        New York Mayor John V Lindsay with the Keys to the City of New York in 1971-        Rt Hon Lord Mais, Lord Mayor of London with the City of London Medal in 1973-        The Bustamante Institute for her outstanding contribution to Caribbean and the field of politics, as the first woman Minister of Government in Jamaica-        The St Andrew Business and Professional Women's Club in1989, in recognition of Distinguished Public Service and Leadership-        The KSAC in 1999 –75th Anniversary Award posthumously – for Long and Dedicated Service. 

Madame Rose Leon lived her motto: "Hard work as a way to achievement: envy no one."

The Jamaica Women's Political Caucus launched the Rose Leon Memorial Lecture Series in 2002.

  At the Inaugural Lecture, Hon Dudley Thompson described her as "a people's politician".

  "Always uppermost in her mind and actions were the underclass, the underprivileged in our society," said Ambassador Thompson.

  "She had sincere and genuine compassion for them and they in turn replied with an effusion of popular love."

In reflecting on her accomplishments, the Ambassador said, "She sent a clear signal that the women of Jamaica were ready and that the woman's place is not only at home, but in the forefront of national development."

He recalled her service as Minister of Housing and Health during the regional epidemic of poliomyelitis: "Madame Rose …threw herself into the task and rallied the entire Health Department behind her.

  She visited every trouble spot and eventually saved this country from this dreadful affliction.

  This and much more of her work is not as well known as it should be."

Madame Rose lost her life tragically in a robbery at her St Andrew home in 1999. Her work continues to inspire Jamaican women in politics and business, who in recalling her phenomenal achievements are convinced, in the words of Mohandas Gandhi: "If the qualities of gentleness, compassion, tolerance and peace are the standards by which we judge mankind, then surely it is a libel to describe women as being the weaker sex."

To mark The Centenary of the Birth of Madame Rose Leon, there will be a Wreath-Laying ceremony at her grave at the Dovecot Memorial Park this Thursday, October 20 at 2.30 pm.

  Wreaths will be laid by The Leon Family, Lay Magistrates Assn of Jamaica, Leon's School of Beauty and the Rose Leon Trust for the Jamaica Women's Political Caucus. 

Sources:

Tribute to Madame Rose Leon by UWI Lecturer Hermione McKenzie – March 4, 2002

Rose Leon Inaugural Memorial Lecture by Ambassador Hon Dudley Thompson – 2002

Prepared on behalf of the Members of the Rose Leon Memorial Trust for the Jamaica Women's Political Caucus:

Mrs. Evelyn Smart, Chair
Mrs. Gloria Alvaranga
Mrs. Joan Browne

Mrs. Merline Daley, O.D.

Dr. Lisa Lawrence

Dr. Gisele Leon-Ritch

Mrs. Jean Lowrie-Chin

Mrs. Hermione McKenzie

Mrs. Gloria Millwood

Dr. Louise Spencer-Strachan

Miss Marie Thompson
____________________________

Contact:

  Jean Lowrie-Chin/Angela Foote – PROComm – 926-6740

Date :              18 October 2011 

STGC Remembers Mr. Carl Anthony Chang

 Message from Lloyd Tenn

It is with regret that we announce the sudden passing of our own Carl Anthony Chang this morning. He was 67 years old. 

He apparently was not feeling well last night, complaining of feeling nauseous. This morning, he was at home,in the company of his workers, when he collapsed. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead.

Carl, as most of us know was the driving force in the upgrading of the infrastructure at St. George's College. He oversaw the reconstruction of the O'Hare Building which sustained serious damage after hurricane Ivan. He was the main driving force behind the construction of the Archbishop Burke Building. He undertook many small and medium sized projects at the school, much of which was financed out of his personal funds.

He once shared with me that he had made a promise to himself and the Lord, that he would give five fully committed years to St. George's College, the time he spent as at the school, to improve the general condition of his beloved alma mater.  I dare say that he would probably have spent more time if the Lord had allowed him.

He was also instrumental in getting the late Carlos Lopez officially recognized when he was seriously ill.

We have to pray for his wife, Paula and his four children at this most difficult time.

And so we will miss this generous man; a husband, a father, a businessman and most of all, a man of tremendous charity.

May His Soul And the Souls of the Faithful Departed Rest In Peace.

Regards,

Lloyd

 

From Tony Wong:

 

His passing has left his Alma Mater in tears as I have witnessed today, for it will be without the benevolence of Carl, who waded in to  solve the water problems and installed proper systems to reduce the electricity bills, searched, found and corrected other problems like painting where need painting and repaired the horrendous plumbing installations.

 

He had installed the first set of solar panels to light the school grounds.  And this does not include the improvements to the O'Hare building done in record time last year. The list of his generosity in these matters is endless.

 

Today I saw the builders of the LB Bldg. ever so sad and without instruction built three flag poles on the new building and hung black flags on them out of respect for someone they truly loved and I became more moved by their repeated vows to complete the building no matter what- "for Mr. Chang say him going finish it"

 

Like these workers we, the past students should ensure that this  happens. It is the least  that can be done to honor a stalwart old boy and to respect the dedication of a unique Georgian and a memorable gentleman.

He will be sadly missed.

May his soul rest in Peace

 

Tony Wong

Food for the Poor's Eloo Project - waterless toilets!

From Susan James, Food for the Poor

These photos are of the Eloo toilets that we installed at the
Eccleston Primary School.

Please note that the building will be painted.

This first set is a pilot to see how well these environmentally friendly
toilets function - they do not require running water.

Additional info - HOW ELOO WORKS

http://www.swsloo.com/how-eloo-works

The ELOO®, although not a composting toilet, provides the right environment
to treat and stabilize human waste by the natural processes of dehydration
and evaporation. The waste is reduced into an inoffensive and harmless, dry,
ashlike material, which is then disposed of according to local county,
state, and Federal regulations.

The ELOO® operates by separating the liquid and solid waste. This waste is
subjected to ambient heat and directed airflow to achieve the necessary
dehydration and evaporation to convert this waste, with ancillary bacterial
and biological activity, into the dried, ashlike material which is
approximately 5-10% of its original mass (solid waste). The liquid waste
totally evaporates.

The liquid waste drains into the trap area below the solid waste drying
plate (see drawing). By separating the solid and liquid waste, anaerobic
conditions (cause of odor) do not occur. Constant, directed air flow
through the intake pipes, around and over the drying tray, then up through
the evacuation vent pipe facilitates both the dehydration and evaporation of
the waste. The turbine on top of the vent pipe aids in the air flow and
dehydration processes.

Installation of the The ELOO® should be with the back of the unit placed to
collect the most sunlight and heat - the solar window in your hemisphere.
The heat build-up (radiant heat) is absorbed through the UV-protected black
polyethylene plastic of the maintenance cover and vent pipe. The increased
internal temperature causes convective airflow which adds to the airflow
through the intake pipes.

Depending on the climatic conditions where the The ELOO® is installed,
additional solar fans may be added to the unit to increase air flow. Local
state regulations may require a high-water alarm be placed in the ELOO®.
SWSLooT provides a choice of solar or battery alarms, either audio or visual
or both, to meet state and/or county requirements. Testing of the The ELOO®
indicates that the evaporation and dehydration processes continue working
until the interior temperature of the unit reaches a low of 1 degree
farenheit, which means that the Eloo will continue to operate in most
climatic conditions in a very large range of temperatures.

OCEAN SPRAY WATA COOLS FR HOLUNG'S TEAM

CHILLING AT REHEARSAL: Acts of the Apostles Director, Greg Thames (left) and Production Designer, P.J. Stewart cool off behind the scenes with Ocean Spray Cran WATA during the play's dress rehearsal at the National Arena. Ocean Spray WATA was one of the major sponsors of  Father Holung's production.

 

Klao Bell-Lewis on Father HoLung's Productions

Father Holung's series of religious plays and musicals are the most unique and significant theatre productions in Jamaica and provide an unparalleled space for amateur and professional artistes.  It is probably the only production that is guaranteed to have a sold out audience every time AND succeed at the National Arena!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Some of the actors are known secular performers and although the subject matter is biblical, the interpretation and expression of the actors who bring the characters to life cannot be labelled Christian or secular.

Where else can accommodate the magnificent set and props. I eagerly look forward to the moment when the grand entrance is made of whatever large prop is used. This year, the audience was treated to three!!! Exciting stuff.  Not to mention this is the closest we have to a Jamaican opera from which musical CD spin offs with 100% original lyrics and score are made available for posterity. Such a rich cultural feature!!!!

 

Klao Bell-Lewis PMP
Communications and Project Management Consultant
876-257-1951
klaobelllewis@gmail.com
Skype: klao.bell.lewis
LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=69573135&trk=tab_pro

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Klao Bell-Lewis PMP
Communications and Project Management Consultant
876-257-1951
klaobelllewis@gmail.com
Skype: klao.bell.lewis
LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=69573135&trk=tab_pro

Help needed for Jamaicans with Alzheimer's disease

Professor Denise Eldemire Shearer - called for an end to the discrimination against those living with Alzheimer's disease

BY NADINE WILSON Observer staff reporter wilsonn@jamaicaobserver.com
Monday, October 10, 2011
WITH an estimated 40,000 Jamaicans living with Alzheimer's disease, local experts are hoping that increased focus will be placed on providing more resources for the caregivers of those living with the disease.
According to the president of the Alzheimer's Disease Outreach Programme and the Alliance on Ageing, Dr Albert Chen, while the number of persons living with the disease is increasing, limited focus on diagnosis and treatment has resulted in many Alzheimer's patients living in isolation.
"These people live all over Jamaica, we visit them in the hills of St Catherine and in the valleys all over," said Dr Chen, who is also a consultant clinical gerontologist.
"Many of them we don't see, we don't hear from them, but they are on beds all over, suffering, no help at all, missing in action. We don't even see them in our health centres because it is hard to get there; and delivering care to persons with dementia in a busy health centre, a health clinic or outpatient department is not going to cut it," he said.
After much lobbying and advocacy, Alzheimer's Disease International, of which Jamaica is a part, was finally able to get the World Health Organisation to list Alzheimer's as a non-communicable disease (NCD) on September 9 of this year. This means that the disease will be given the same level of priority as other NCDs such as cancer, diabetes and lung disease.
President of Alzheimer's Jamaica (AJ), attorney-at-law Dundeen Ferguson, is hoping that the recent ruling will push governments to help to raise awareness and implement policies that would allow Alzheimer's patients to get easier access to medication.
"Every call that I get on the phone it is about medication and how families cannot afford it," said Ferguson, who founded AJ during her struggle to get help for her parents when they were living with Alzheimer's. The group provides counselling and referrals for those affected by the disease.
Ferguson expressed concern that some Alzheimer's patients are being stigmatised because of ignorance of the disease, and implored family members to be more understanding, despite the challenges in caring for someone with Alzheimer's.
"You will learn that this disease is something that they are living with, and they themselves are conscious of it and we need to recognise that in the early stages, some of them are very much aware that changes are happening and they just don't understand what it is," she said.
Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behaviour. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks, with sufferers often having to rely heavily on caregivers.
Just over a week ago, the Alliance on Ageing hosted a Worlds Alzheimer's Day 2011 public lecture which saw scores of people packing the Guardian Life Auditorium on Trafalgar Road in New Kingston to learn more about the disease.
The lecture was delivered by Professor Denise Eldemire-Shearer, who took issue with the fact that many people continue to view Alzheimer's as a natural part of aging.
Professor Eldemire-Shearer said that measures such as controlling the blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, as well as stimulating the brain by doing puzzles and watching television, could go a long way in slowing down the progression of the disease. She too called for an end to the discrimination against those living with Alzheimer's.
"We cannot hide our demented family members, our demented patients, we need to take them out," she said before adding, "Yes, they are going to walk up and down the place, they are going to make some noise, but so what, it needs to be accepted."
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