| PAGES: 12 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com SIGN UP FOR OUR EPAPER @ epaper.jamaica-gleaner.com/na TRANS-CONTINENTAL ECONOCARIBE 147-46 176 STREET, JAMAICA, NEW YORK 11434 TEL: 718-244-7447, 718-341-2900 • BARRELS • CRATES • CARTONS • FURNITURE • APPLIANCES • BUILDING SUPPLIES • MEDICAL SUPPLIES • CARS KINGSTON, MONTEGO BAY, PORT OF SPAIN - TRINIDAD, GUYANA & OTHER ISLANDS WE SHIP DIRECTLY TO: SPECIALIZING IN RETURNING RESIDENTS P4-5: Five well-known Jamaicans receive honorary degrees in Toronto FREE NORTH AMERICA BRANDED CONTENT EDITION P6&8: Luminaries dazzle at UWI Toronto Benefit Awards gala P9: Grace Jamaica Jerk Festival NY launched with commemorative merchandise ACCOLADES APLENTY J’can nurse conferred with Presidential Medal of Freedom leads list of countrymen awarded JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | VOL 2027
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 2 THE LAW Society of Ontario has presented a degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa (LLD), to Jamaican-Canadian Court of Appeal Justice Michael H. Tulloch, describing him as“a true legal pioneer who has advanced justice and equality rights not only through his work as a lawyer and judge, but also through his personal journey shattering systemic barriers”. “The law society awards honorary doctorates each year to distinguished individuals in recognition of outstanding achievements in the legal profession, the rule of law, or the cause of justice,”noted the organisation’s gazette. Tulloch has a long and distinguished career as amember of the Canadian judiciary, a Crown prosecutor, a lawyer in private practice, and a renowned writer, speaker and professor. He has led systemic reviews of the justice system at various levels, provided leadership on legal and judicial committees; designed and delivered international justice sector reform programmes; and contributed to a myriad of civic, charitable and community development initiatives. Tulloch was appointed a judge of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in 2003. At that time, he was one of only three black judges on any superior court in Canada. Upon his appointment to the Ontario Court of Appeal in 2012, Justice Tulloch was the first black Canadian to sit on any appellate court in Canada. He is a prolific writer and throughout his judicial career to date, he has written over 300 published judgments. Prior to his judicial appointment in 2003, he served as an assistant Crown attorney in Peel andToronto from 1991 to 1995, before entering private practice, where he specialised in criminal law until his appointment to the bench. Tulloch is a founding member and patron of the Second Chance Scholarship Foundation, an organisation which provides scholarships for young people who have been in conflict with the law, or who are from at-risk backgrounds and are pursuing a post-secondary education. Within the community, he is a past member of the board of directors for the North York Chamber of Commerce, the Ontario Legal Aid Area Committee, the Canadian Bar Association, the Criminal Lawyers Association, the Osgoode Society on Canadian Legal History, and the National Bar Association. He is also a past member of the board of directors of the Urban Alliance on Race Relations, Tropicana Community Services, and the Jane-Finch Community Legal Aid Clinic. He is a past president of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, a founding board member of the Rhema Christian Ministries, and a past president of the Caribbean and African Chamber of Commerce. Justice Tulloch is the current chair of the advisory board to the Black Business Professionals Association. Tulloch holds degrees in economics and business fromYork University and graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University with a law degree in 1989. He was called to the Ontario Bar in 1991. He has also received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Ryerson University and the University of Guelph, and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Tyndale University and Seminary. Justice Michael Tulloch receives honorary doctorate from Ontario Law Society By Lester Hinds FOURTEEN PEOPLE will be honoured at this year’s People Profile Awards, which will be presented on July 10 in Broward County, Florida. In addition, another eight people will also be honoured for their community service as part of the activities to celebrate Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of Independence. The awards presentation will this year return to its original location at the Broward Performing Arts Amatura Theater. Proceeds from the black-tie event will be used to continue refurbishing the Whitfield Town Primary School in Kingston. Proceeds from past events have been used to build a music room at the school. Founder and president of the People Profile Awards, Dr Allan Cunningham, said that this year’s awards will be significant as it coincides with activities to celebrate Jamaica’s diamond jubilee as an independent country. “The awards are designed to recognise the contributions of people across a wide spectrum of our community who are giving of their time and efforts to improve the lives of their fellow citizens and improve communities,” he said. The top award, the Lifetime Achievement Award, will this year be presented to Beverley Evans Smith. Last year’s award was presented to athlete Veronica Campbell-Brown Beverly Evans Smith is the 20172021 national president and CEO for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., one of the nation’s largest minority femaleowned and operated public service non-profits. In this role, she restructured the corporate board and headquarters operation, initiated the documentation of all business operations, added new revenue streams and increased membership. She also served as the organisation’s elected national first vice president, national secretary, and was previously employed as Delta Sigma Theta’s executive director, leading their headquarters business function. Smith retired from the Technical College Systemof Georgia (TCSG) as the assistant commissioner and Georgia state director for adult education and GED testing in 2018. In this role, she provided adult education training programmes for an average 69,000 Georgia citizens annually, with a staff of over 1,200 educators and support staff at 450 sites across the state. She was also responsible for the administration of all Georgia GED testing and supported local literacy action groups throughout Georgia. In addition, Smith served as 2015-17 Chair of the National Association of State Directors’ of Adult Education and has testified before the U.S. Senate HELP Committee representing the issues faced by adults with literacy challenges. As an entrepreneur, Smith is also senior vice-president of The HR Group Inc., a management consulting firm she has co-owned with her husband, Stephen, for 30 years. As a corporate manager, Smith spent 18 years in leadership positions with AT&T (Southern Bell), implementing innovative business processes during her tenure. Her skill sets include demonstrated expertise in organisational effectiveness, business operations redesign and restructure and strategic planning. During that time, she also served as a member of the 1994 AT&TMalcolmBaldrige awardwinning team in the area of human resources. Prior to her corporate work, Smith spent several years as university administrator in various capacities. She is a prolific motivational speaker in the areas of leadership and change management. Smith is currently a member of the board of directors for the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and the Delta Research and Education Foundation (DREF). She also serves on the Bowling Green State University (Ohio) Student Affairs Leadership Council. A long-term community volunteer, Smith served eight years as the chair of the Cobb County Board of Elections & Registration and on various community boards, including the Atlanta Area Council-Boy Scouts of America, and the Cobb County United Way and Girls, Incorporated. She has been a co-Chair for Leadership Cobb, as well as served on the board of directors for Chattahoochee Technical College and the Alumni Board of Directors for Bowling Green State University (Ohio), where she chaired its Strategic Planning Committee. She is also the recipient of numerous awards. Also being honoured are former Calabar runner Daniel England as the sports leader of the year; Hugh Ferguson, media personality of the year; Fred Christian – humanitarian of the year; Dr Debbie Goodman as educator of the year; and Khalid Mahmood as community leader of the year. Among those being honoured as part of the celebration of Jamaica’s 60th Independence anniversary are former mayor Dale Holness, Mayor Hazelle Rogers, David Muir and Carl Brown. The People Profile Awards is in its seventh year. 14 to be honoured with People Profile Awards in Florida ‘The awards are designed to recognise the contributions of people across a wide spectrum of our community who are giving of their time and efforts to improve the lives of their fellow citizens and improve communities.’ Olympian Donovan Bailey appointed to the Order of Canada Jamaican-Canadian Olympian Donovan Bailey is among 85 new appointees to the Order of Canada – one of the country’s highest honours and one of four promotions within the Order. He is included for his excellence in track and field, and for his philanthropic commitment to youth, amateur athletes and his community. The announcement was made by Mary Simon, governor general of Canada, on June 29. He will be presented with his insignia at one of the future investiture ceremonies for which the dates are yet to be determined. Bailey was born in Manchester, Jamaica, and migrated to Canada at the age of 13. He commanded the world’s attention in the 1990s when he exploded onto the track and field circuit, with Track & Field News declaring him ‘Sprinter of the Decade’ and one of the world’s all-time greatest and most dominant athletes. Among his accolades are three-time World champion, two-time Olympic champion, two-time world record holder, eight-time Canadian champion, Pan-American Games champion, Goodwill Games and Commonwealth Games champion. In 1996, he broke the indoor 50-metre world record in Reno, Nevada, posting a time of 5.56 seconds – a record held to this day. In 1996, he earned the rare triple title of World champion, Olympic champion, and world record holder. Bailey electrified Canada and the world when he shattered the World and Olympic record, winning Canada’s first-ever gold medal in the glory event of the Games. He ran a sizzling 9.84 seconds. Bailey was also awarded the Lou Marsh Trophy and named Canadian Newsmaker of the Year. In 1997, he won a third World title with the Canadian relay team and beat American sprinting champion Michael Johnson in a much-publicised 150-metre race to determine who was the ‘World’s Fastest Man’. The Order of Canada was created in 1967 by Queen Elizabeth II “to honour people whose service shapes our society, whose innovations ignite our imaginations, and whose compassion unites our communities”.
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 3 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF JAMAICA IN THE CIVIL DIVISION CLAIM NO. 2018 HCV 03811 BETWEEN AND AND DESMOND WILLIAM McKENZIE DAISY ELIZABETH RAYMOND LACY-ANN SHERENE RAYMOND CLAIMANT FIRST RESPONDENT SECOND RESPONDENT TAKE NOTICE THAT the Fixed Date Claim Form filed herein on October 2, 2018 is part heard to the 21st of September 2022 at 9:30 a.m. for half an hour (30 minutes). DATED THE 23RD DAY OF JUNE 2022 NOTICE OF ADJOURNED HEARING Filed by TEMPLE LAW, Attorneys-at-Law, of 66-68 Barry Street, Kingston for and on behalf of the Claimant herein whose address for service is that of his said attorney. Tel: (876) 535-8162; (876) 633-6531. Email: Lanzojm@hotmail.co.uk. JAMAICAN DR Sandra Lindsay is among 17 Americans awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden. Lindsay is a critical care nurse in New York who served on the frontline of the emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She was the first American to receive a COVID-19 vaccine outside of clinical trials, and is a prominent advocate for vaccines andmental healthcare for healthcare workers. For her professionalism, dedication and bravery amid the global pandemic, she has been honoured with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian honour. It is presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private, endeavours. The awards were conferred on the recipients at theWhite House on July 7. Inmaking the announcement, Biden said: “These 17 Americans demonstrate the power of possibilities and embody the soul of the nation – hard work, perseverance, and faith. “They have overcome significant obstacles to achieve impressive accomplishments in the arts and sciences, dedicated their lives to advocating for the most vulnerable among us, and acted with bravery to drive change in their communities – and across the world – while blazing trails for generations to come,”the president continued. In reaction to the announcement from the White House, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States Audrey Marks, who was invited to the ceremony, congratulated Lindsay on behalf of the Jamaican Government and people of Jamaica, emphasising that she continues to make Jamaica proud as a member of the diaspora. Marks noted that the Presidential Medal of Freedom is a most prestigious award, and Lindsay’s selection as a recipient is an indication of her outstanding contribution to her adopted homeland, and the critical role she played in motivating Americans to take the COVID-19 vaccine in the battle against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Among the other recipients are Simone Biles, the most decorated American gymnast in history; former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, the youngest woman ever elected to the Arizona State Senate, serving first in the Arizona legislature and a survivor of gun violence, who co-founded Giffords, a non-profit organisation dedicated to gun violence prevention; Fred Gray, one of the first black members of the Alabama state legislature since Reconstruction, who represented Rosa Parks with the NAACP and who Martin Luther King called “the chief counsel for the protest movement”; Steve Jobs (posthumously), the co-founder, chief executive officer and chair of Apple, Inc, CEO of Pixar and a former lead investor at the Walt Disney Company; John McCain (posthumously), who served the people of Arizona for decades in the US House of Representatives and US Senate, and the Republican presidential nominee in 2008; and Denzel Washington, actor, director, and producer who has won two Academy Awards, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and the 2016 Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award. LINDSAY Lindsay (left), a nurse at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, is inoculated with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine by Dr. Michelle Chester, in the Queens borough of New York, Dec. 14, 2020. FILE J’ca-born Nurse Sandra Lindsay awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 4 Neil Armstrong/Contributor THREE OF Canada’s leading universities have conferred honorary degrees on five well-known Jamaican Canadians – Jamaica’s poet laureate Olive Senior by York University; entrepreneur and philanthropist B. Denham Jolly; healthcare pioneer Camille Orridge by the University of Toronto; entrepreneur and business leader Wayne Purboo and former Canadian citizenship court judge Pamela Appelt by McMaster University. Senior was among 12 individuals recognised for their outstanding contributions to community building, social justice, mental health advocacy and Indigenous rights at the spring convocation. “The individuals we are celebrating with honorary degrees represent the best of what York University stands for – our commitment to enhancing the well-being of the communities we serve – toward reconciliation, human rights, social justice, and more,” said Rhonda Lenton, president and vice chancellor of York University. Lenton added: “Their remarkable accomplishments serve as inspiration for York’s newest graduates and for all of us.” “Senior is an award-winning Canadian writer and public intellectual of Jamaican heritage. Her work has been translated into multiple languages, and her Encyclopedia of Jamaican Heritage is a widely read and cited reference text,” the university noted separately. In her commencement address, Senior told the graduates that she grew up in a mountain village in Jamaica. “I didn’t get many presents. But I had one gift – the gift that all children are born with – but which many, unfortunately, lose along the way. That is, the gift of curiosity.” She said curiosity sometimes has a negative connotation, but hers was curiosity of the positive and constructive kind – an attribute that is innate. “I feel fortunate now to have retained that sense of wonder that has kept me continuously asking questions and seeking answers. I can say, unequivocally, that curiosity is the engine that has driven my life and the work for which I am being honoured today,” she stated. Senior’s many awards include Canada’s Writers Trust Matt Cohen Award for Lifetime Achievement, the OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature, the CommonwealthWriters Prize, an honorary doctorate fromThe University of the West Indies and the Gold Medal of the Institute of Jamaica. Jolly, a radio pioneer and champion of social justice, was awarded a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, from the University of Toronto for his leadership in promoting equity, social justice and opportunity in Toronto. In his address, Jolly, who moved to Canada in 1955 to pursue a science degree at McGill University inMontreal, Quebec, said he left Jamaica at the age of 20 for study at the university and graduated in 1960. Five well-known Jamaicans receive honorary degrees in Toronto SENIOR ORRIDGE JOLLY PLEASE SEE DEGREE, 5
5 “As an entrepreneur, I have done well financially starting from humble beginnings. When I look back, it seems that I did well by trying to do good,” said the co-founder of Flow 93.5FM, Canada’s first black-owned and operated radio station, and a former owner and publisher of Contrast, the groundbreaking black community newspaper in Toronto, which was founded in the late 1960s. Charting his history in Canada, Jolly said his first job was as a teacher in Sault Ste Marie and later in Toronto. He bought a rooming house near the University of Toronto and subsequently left teaching to go into the nursing home and small hotel business. These were all acquired while following his father’s advice: “Don’t work for anyone but yourself and always work to own property.” In 2021, he was appointed a member of the Order of Canada. A University of Toronto alumna, Orridge was recognised for being a pioneering healthcare leader and for her promotion of a more equitable and just health system, especially for marginalised, racialised and Indigenous communities. In a call to action, she urged the graduates to make a personal commitment to create inclusive spaces by keeping the air around them free of discrimination. “On a personal level, this means you will not accept things such as homophobia, sexism, ageism, ableism, and all the other isms in your presence or your earshot. This may sound easy. However, these types of personal commitments are often more challenging to uphold. A personal commitment means you will not let things fly under the radar, but will be open to having difficult conversations with family, friends, colleagues to uphold inclusion for all,” Orridge said. She served as CEO of several prominent local health organisations and co-founded the Canadian Home Care Association and Pathways to Education, a nationwide stay-in-school programme for disadvantaged high-school students. Purboo, a McMaster graduate, has over 25 years of experience in the media and telecommunications industries. He was the co-founder and CEO of QuickPlay Media – a company providing mobile media services to premium video service providers – and is now vice-president of Amazon Advertising. He has volunteered with many organisations including Virgin Unite, Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and SickKids. Purboo has also shared his entrepreneurial skills and experience with McMaster students at The Forge, McMaster’s start-up accelerator. In 2006, he was named one of ‘Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 by Caldwell Partners and is a recipient of the University of the West Indies Vice Chancellor’s Award. Appelt is a retired Canadian Citizenship Court judge— the first female Afro-Canadian to serve in that position—and community volunteer who has spent her life working to improve the lives of children and families. She immigrated to Canada in 1966 and worked as a researcher inmedical biochemistry at McGill University for several years. Appelt holds a master’s degree in public policy and has spent her life working with numerous community and national organisations, including helping to found the Black-Jewish dialogue of B’Nai Brith Canada. She played an instrumental role in bringing the archives of iconic Jamaican-Canadian poet Louise Bennett-Coverley to the McMaster University Library. DEGREE CONTINUED FROM 4 PURBOO APPELT THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 6 By Sophia Findlay WHEN SOFI Style caught up with renowned Jamaican fashion and celebrity photographer Walter Chin, the 2022 vice-chancellor honouree of The University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards, he expressed immense gratitude for the distinguished acknowledgement of his remarkable talent on a global platform. The New York-based creative artist, who was born in Montego Bay, St James, shone brightly at the prestigious event, themed ‘One Caribbean… Global Impact’, held on June 25 at the Ritz-Carton, Toronto. “Tonight is a very special evening for me, it’s like the epitome of my career to be honoured by my fellowWest Indians; I feel a sense of accomplishment now. I have been acknowledged by the fashion industry and have other accolades, but to be honoured among my other West Indian people, it’s very special,” said Chin. The awards gala was all that it promised, with pomp and pageantry as it highlighted inspiring individuals and organisations that internationally represent Jamaica and the Caribbean with excellence. Six other global ambassadors of prolific stature were also lauded among the 2022 honourees. They include: · Chancellor Janice Fukakusa, OC – Business leader and philanthropist, Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University); Andre De Grasse – Six-time Olympic medallist and 200m Olympic champion; BasilWatson, CD -World-renowned sculptor; Dr Shakuntala Haraksingh-Thilsted - Global lead for nutrition and public health at WorldFish, 2021 World Food Prize; Dr Camille Wardrop-Alleyne - Aerospace engineer and space scientist; Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) PAHO Director Dr Carissa Etienne, who came over fromWashington, DC, USA, stated that the award ties in perfectly with the health organisation’s celebration of 120 years of existence. “We have come through one of the most trying periods of our history with the pandemic, and were able to exercise our role as the premier public health agency working with all our member states, fromCanada way down Renowned Jamaican sculptor Basil Watson (fourth from left), CD, accepts the Luminary Award from Professor Hilary Beckles, along with lead sponsor Scotiabank’s Vice-President for the Caribbean, Central America & Uruguay, Anya Schnoor; Andrew Chang; Brigette Chang and her children; and Donnette Chin-Loy Chang. CONTRIBUTED …if you’re hot, I’m at your spot! Luminaries dazzle at UWI Toronto Benefit Awards gala PLEASE SEE AWARDS, 8 FEATURE
7 UPWARDS OF a dozen Jamaicans and friends of the island nation residing in the United States will be recognised for their decades of unwavering support at ‘The People’s Independence Ball’ to be held at the Crest Hollow Country Club, 8325 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY, on Saturday, August 13, starting at 6 p.m. Drawn from a wide cross section of society, including the arts, entertainment, sport, philanthropy and journalism, the honourees will be cited for excellence in their chosen vocation, in keeping with the theme of the event, ‘Unmasking 60 Years of Jamaica’s Excellence’, as Jamaicans at home and overseas celebrate the milestone anniversary of Independence. “It’s Jamaica’s 60th, celebrating 60 years of our country’s greatest achievements. So, join us as we unmask six decades of Jamaica’s excellence with celebrations at home and abroad,”said J. “Lexy” Brooks, chair of the Jamaica Independence Foundation, Inc., organizers of ‘The People’s Independence Ball’. According to Brooks, the committee is busy finalising the full list of honourees that so far includes broadcaster Roy ‘DJ Roy’ Walters, Road Int’l Disco; Patricia McKay, Sirius Radio; Patricia Meschino, writer and contributor to The Daily Beast, Billboard magazine and Rolling Stone; and Kamilah McDonald, trailblazer. Entertainment for the black-tie gala will be provided by recording artiste Richie Stephens, Braata Folk Singers, Road International Disco, with DJ Roy, DJ Norie and DJ Strikah taking turns at the turntable. Andrew Clarke, founder and artistic director of Braata Folk Singers and an accomplished emcee, will chair the ceremonies. A silent auction forms part of the evening’s offering as well. Net proceeds and contributions from the event will benefit a number of registered charities in the United States and Jamaica, including: Safe Horizon, Mustard Seed Communities, and Rose Town Foundation. The organisation’s main purpose is to assist with programmes that help women who are victims of domestic abuse and to advocate for women in crisis situations, underserved communities, and amateur athletes from Jamaica involved in sports overseas, especially in the USA. Tickets for the event can be purchased via PayPal: info@Jifinyc.org, online at www.Jifinyc.org, or at a local neighbourhood restaurant. For sponsorship, advertising, media, and other information, persons may contact info@Jifinyc.org, or call 917-885-5181. J’cans, friends of nation to be recognised at ‘The People’s Independence Ball’ McDONALD McKAY ‘It’s Jamaica’s 60th, celebrating 60 years of our country’s greatest achievements. So, join us as we unmask six decades of Jamaica’s excellence with celebrations at home and abroad.’ THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT
to Argentina; North America, Central America, and the Caribbean,” Etienne informed. Dr Donette Chin-Loy Chang, co-patron of The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards, explained in a release that they were mindful of the far-reaching effects of Caribbean descendants on other regions. “With this year’s selection of honourees, we are showcasing not only the influence and impact of the Caribbean on the world, but also that the island nations have ancestral connections to places such as Africa, South Asia and Asia,” she said. So for Chin, it was a manifestation of possibilities, especially sharing podium with stalwarts such as Jamaican sculptor Basil Watson, CD, who was the recipient of the Luminary Award. Watson was fresh from his European trip, where he unveiled his latest creation, the United Kingdom’s National Windrush Monument at London’sWaterloo Stadium. He is also the creator of the much-acclaimed statues of Jamaican sprinters Usain Bolt, Merlene Ottey, Herb McKenley, Veronica Campbell-Brown, Asafa Powell and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce erected at Jamaica’s National Independence Park. “It’s a recognition I’ve always wanted, and I feel like I finally have a place that I fit in,”said Chin, who attended Cornwall College before leaving the island at age 17. “I was fully culturalised before I left Jamaica,”the 67-year-old divulged with a hearty laugh. Over the past 12 years, 650 scholarships have been granted and almost CDN$3 million has been raised by the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards, created by philanthropist and businessman G Raymond Chang, late husband of Chin-Loy Chang, and is the university’s largest fundraising event in Canada. Andrew Chang, Brigette Chang and Dr Wesley J. Hall are also UWI Toronto Benefit Awards co-patrons, who selflessly seek funds that help provide scholarships to empower students through education at the regional university. The higher-learning institution boasts almost 50,000 enrolled students and five campuses. THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 8 AWARDS CONTINUED FROM 6 Fashion and celebrity photographer Walter Chin (left) accepts the 2022 ViceChancellor Award at The University of the West Indies Toronto Benefit Awards from UWI Vice-Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Chancellor Janice Fukakusa, OC, business leader and philanthropist, Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), accepts her award from Professor Hilary Beckles, along with lead sponsor Scotiabank’s Vice-President for the Caribbean, Central America & Uruguay, Anya Schnoor; Andrew Chang; Brigette Chang and her children; and Donnette Chin-Loy Chang. FEATURE
9 THEREWAS a buzz of excitement and anticipation as the organisers of NewYork’s Grace Jamaica Jerk Festival launched this year’s festivities with media and fans at a promotional event, titled A Taste of Jerk. Festival coordinator Richard Lue shared plans for the event scheduled for July 31, at Roy Wilkins Park, Queens. In celebration of the festival’s 10th anniversary, Lue announced details of the event as well as new features, including a 10th anniversary merchandise and a unique QR Code. The QR Code takes visitors to www. VPReggae.com, where festival tickets, merchandise and products are available. Guests heard from Jamaica’s Consul General Alsion Roach, celebrity chef Angela Yee of Power 105 FM New York’s Breakfast Club, who said she was excited to be participating in the cook-off competition. There was a buzz of excitement from the audience as Lue revealed the names of performers such as Protoje, Lila Ike, Laa Lee, RomainVirgo and Christopher Martin. Offering a preview of what to expect at this year’s festival was the amazing Nigy Boy, who delivered an impressive performance, as well as Asase Yaa Cultural Group. Chefs and restaurants offered a sample of their signature jerk dishes that will be available at this year’s event for patrons to feast on. The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is New York’s signature Caribbean event, merging food, music, and entertainment. Every year, over 15,000 fun-loving guests immerse themselves in a Caribbean cultural experience. This year’s event coincides withmajor milestones: the festival’s 10th anniversary in New York, Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of Independence and Grace Foods 100th anniversary. Organisers promise to make this year the best ever. “With so much to celebrate, including surviving a pandemic, we are hoping for a one of a kind event in the park,” Lue said. Tickets are on sale now at www.jerkfestivalny.com and at authorised retail outlets in the New York tri-state area. The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, NY, is produced by Jamaican Jerk Festival – NY, LLC, in association withVP Records. Grace Jamaica Jerk Festival NY launched with commemorative merchandise Patrons attending the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival. Patrons indulge in an array of sumptuous jerk cuisine at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival. These two ladies enjoy the food at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Another patron samples the delicious food at the Grace Jamaica Jerk Festival in New York. THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT
10 CARIBBEAN AMERICAN CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION CONNECT. INFORM. EDUCATE Caribbean-American Cultural Arts Foundation (CACAF) is a national organization, based in Atlanta, Georgia. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of cultural arts programs and educational mentorship with a focus on the study, advancement, and presentation of Caribbean arts, culture, and humanities. 1185 Hightower Trail, #501383 Atlanta, GA 31150 e. connect@caribbeanculturalarts.org t. 404.806.9053 w. caribbeanculturalarts.org Donations welcomed! ATLANTA: T HE CARIBBEAN American Cultural Arts Foundation (CACAF) honoured nine captains of industry during a glamorous and exciting gala at the Four Seasons Hotel – Atlanta, on Sunday, June 26. The event, which was complete with a VIP reception, Caribbean Stilt performers and a Junkanoo band, celebrated the achievements of some of Atlanta’s most respected and outstanding Caribbean American leaders. Among them were: Aisha ‘Pinky, Cole, founder and owner of the Slutty Vegan ATL; Ann-Marie Campbell, EVP of The Home Depot; Balram Bheodari, general manager of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport; Darwin Newton, head of operations, Siemens Corporation; Jamil Jude, creative director of Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theater; Astra Armbrister-Rolle, former Bahamas consul general – Atlanta; Saurel Quettan, former president – Georgia/Haitian American Chamber of Commerce; Dr David Panton, president, Panton Equity; and Rep Pedro Marin (GA-96). Highlights from the evening included themoment honoree Pinky Cole addressed attendees and told them that she was proud of her Jamaican heritage and proud of her Jamaican mom. In accepting the award, Cole described the day that she was born as the day that her Jamaican father was sentenced to prison and was later deported to Jamaica. She said that she still achieved all that her parents had hoped for her to achieve when they came to the United States. Cole said: “I am my parents wildest dreams.” Har t s f i e ld-Jackson At l anta International Airport General Manager Balram Bheodari, who was also honoured at the event, touted his vision of leadership at the airport. Bheodari said Some of the attendees at the CACAF gala event held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 26. CONTRIBUTED Pinky Cole shows off her award at the podium. CONTRIBUTED HONOURS CARIBBEAN AMERICAN EXCELLENCE TO CLOSE OUT CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH PLEASE SEE AWARDS, 11 THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT
his goal was to promote the airport as an economic engine for the City of Atlanta. The event also honoured the contributions of some of the community’s most impactful leaders, among themNaeemah Charles, entrepreneur and nurse, Grady Memorial Hospital; Dr TamekaWalker Blake, entrepreneur and director of emergency medicine, Piedmont Newton Hospital; Ezron ‘Ezzy B’ Benjamin, media personality and founder, The Ezzy B Show and Life Safety Specialist, Northside Hospital. The annual event, which took place for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, is also a fundraiser for the Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation. The non-profit supports disaster relief, preparedness, and response efforts in the United States and the Caribbean, supports educational mentorship and cross-cultural exchange. It also meets the needs of the ageing population and promotes Caribbean arts, culture, and humanities. CACAF Chairman Michael Thomas said that this year’s event was a true success. “Our celebration of diversity and inclusion is paramount to the continued success of the region and the United States. This event will continue to further the work and vision of CACAF. The organisation has made strides over the past few years in bridging the gap in cross-cultural exchange for students in local Atlanta schools connecting them to leaders in higher education across the Caribbean. CACAF was also pivotal in connecting the Caribbean community and the global community during the SOLACE Virtual series which providedmental health services to local Atlanta students and families during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said. The event was sponsored by The Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta; HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport; United States Virgin Islands; The Islands of the Bahamas; Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill; Panton Equity; Onyx Media Services; Renansant Bank; Integral; the Community Foundation of Greater Atlanta, and the Westside Parent Avengers. 11 By Rohan Jones SOUTH HUDSON CC made light work of Jersey City as the 10th round of matches in the Garden State Cricket League (GSCL) regular season/limited overs (40 overs) competition which concluded on Sunday, July 3. The game, which was played at Lincoln Park in Jersey City, saw the home team (Jersey City) taking first strike on a fast wicket, much to their disadvantage as the procession was quick and costly. The batsmen were sent packing in quick succession, bowled out for a miserly 51 runs. Paceman Mario Lobban took 5 for 15 from seven overs. He was well supported by Roger Williams, 2 for 11; and Marvin Lobban, 2 for 10. In their turn at the bat, South Hudson raced to 55 runs without loss from six overs, with Alfred Quincy 27 not out and Awad Hansraj, 22 not out. At Cedarbrook, defending champions TrinJersey CC beat home teamCommonwealth CC in a high-scoring game with quite a bit of fireworks. Batting first, TrinJersey amassed 391 for 2 off 40 overs. Iquia Craig led the way with a dashing 141 and Delroy Nelson 117. In reply, Commonwealth made 217 all out, with Adrian Sami getting 79 and Erskine Herbert 44. Skipper Sheldon Bhurasingh took 5 for 39 and Kumar Natgendra finished with 2 for 40. At Watsessing Park ‘A’, the visiting team Eclipse, got the better of the home team New Jersey Rebels. Taking first strike, Eclipse finished on 261 for 9 off the allotted 40 overs. Top scorers were Tanush Patel 78 and Steven Jones 58. The leading wicket-taker for NJ Rebels was Arya Garg with 3 for 51, from eight overs. In their turn at the bat, NJ Rebels finished on 237 for 8, with Kevin Deerope making 61 not out and David Forbes making 55. Ketan Patel took 3 for 29. At Watsessing Park ‘B’, New Jersey CC 129 for 3, beat Elite CC 127 all out, by 7 wickets. And over at Orange Park in Orange, NJ, home teamWestern All Stars with a ‘ton’ from A.J. Salmon 113, scored 321 for 8, to beat Dominica CC 237 for 9, by 84 runs. The competition continues on Sunday, July 10, with a number of matches across the state, all starting at 12:00 noon. Montego Bay v TrinJersey @ Orange Park; Dominica CC taking on South Hudson CC at Watsessing Park ‘A’ in Bloomfield; NJCC v Jersey City CC @ Watsessing Park ‘B’; Commonwealth CC/Western All Stars @ Cedar Brook Park, Plainfield and Eclipse CC v Elite CC meeting at Warinanco Park, Bloomfield. Wins for champs TrinJersey, South Hudson CC in Garden State cricket West Indian Sherfane Rutherford who leads NJCC v Jersey City in their Round 11 meeting at Watsessing Park, Field ‘B’ on Sunday, July 10. CONTRIBUTED AWARDS CONTINUED FROM 10 Dr David Panton accepts his award. Dr Tameka Blake with award in hand. Michael Thomas (left), chairman of the CACAF; and host Ivan Shammas, general manager of Univision Atlanta & Raleigh NC. CACAF gala event co-chair Alrene Barr presents the award to Balram Bheodari, general manager, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Contributed THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS
12 • Teams • Sponsors • Volunteers • Fans Contact: www.griffinfootballclub.com, t. 347.623.8198 OPEN FOR REGISTRATION • Youth Development Program • Evenings & weekends • Fundamental & Advance Skills Mastery • Certified Coaches & Administrators ON SATURDAY, June 25, and Sunday 26, the Griffin Football Club staged the 18th edition of the Jamaica Alumni Football Tournament (JAFT) at two locations in The Bronx, the Haffen Valley Park (Saturday) and Ferry Point Park (Sunday), due to the unavailability of Evander Childs High School Stadium. A total of 16 schools participated: Defending Champions Calabar High School, Excelsior High School, Clarendon College, Camperdown High School, Herbert Morrison Technical, Jamaica College, Dinthill Technical High School, William Knibb Memorial High School, Kingston College, St George’s College, St Andrew Technical High School, and Munro College. This year we had four newcomers: Ardenne, Dunoon, Edwin Allen, and Bridgeport. The fun-filled football festival was well supported by the players, their families and fans of the sport. This year’s tournament had a new format: Over 45 ‘Masters’ and U45 ‘Open’. The Master’s bracket/division comprised: St George’s College, Camperdown High School, Jamaica College, Kingston College, Clarendon College, St Andrew Technical High School, Ardenne High School, Edwin Allen, Herbert Morrison Technical, Dinthill Technical High and Excelsior High School. The Open division featured Calabar High School, Jamaica College, Kingston College, St George’s College, Munro College, Camperdown High School, Dunoon Technical, Bridgeport High School, William Knibb High School, and Excelsior High School. On both days, the parks were bubbling! Tents were erected and all schools donned their jerseys with pride and confidence. Fans represented their alumni associations by parading in their school colours: light blue, dark blue, and green & black, maroon & gold, green & gold, maroon & blue, blue & gold, maroon & beige and red & blue. This informal outdoor family style setting was just what the doctor ordered! Nostalgia was in the air, as fans came out to see their favourite players from yesteryear. The attendance was very encouraging. Ashani ‘Maestro’ Walker (JC) was named MVP for the Open division and Keith ‘Baddas’ Tomlinson (HMT) was named MVP for the Master’s bracket. The leading goalscorer went to Troy ‘Pepsi’ Pinnock of Camperdown High School for the ‘Open’ bracket. Vascoe ‘Fox’Duhaney (JC) was the leading scorer for the Master’s bracket. The best-dressed teams were Camperdown and Dunoon for their respective divisions. The most disciplined team award went to Herber t Morrison Technical for the second year in a row. The two-day tournament was successful and incident free, and this was echoed by all who were in attendance. A very special thank you to the players and supporters of the various schools involved, especially referees Troy Gardner and Andrew Richards. Of course, the success of these events is usually hinged on the level of sponsorship and for this reason, we want to give a big ‘shout out’ and thank you to the following: Williams Jewellers, Optimum Dental, Law Office of Adrian A. Ellis, LLC; Les Q Caribbean Restaurant, Jamaica College Old Boys’ Association, Johnny’s Cheesecake, Faithy’s Restaurant , Di r ty Gloves Drain Services, Cornwall College Old Boys’ Association – NYC, Godfrey U. Mitchell & Associates, Grooving Radio, Second BaseMedia & Consulting, LLC and Brasilian Soccer School. The overall responses and feedbacks have motivated the organisers as we look forward to a bigger and better event in 2023. Bobby Austin, Tournament Director Griffin Football Club says thank you… Football administrators Orlando ‘Bunni’ Byfield (second left) andWinston ‘Cosmos’ Buddle (second right) are flanked by tournament volunteers Zola Lallo Pinto (left) and Janet Henry (right), after they were presented with awards for outstanding and dedicated service to the sport of football during the JAFT event at the Ferry Point Park, Bronx. Members of the Calabar Alumnus football team. CONTRIBUTED PHTOS Most Valuable Player Keith Tomlinson shows his trophy. THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 7 - AUGUST 6, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT
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