FREE | PAGES: 12 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com SIGN UP FOR OUR EPAPER @ epaper.jamaica-gleaner.com/na AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | VOL 2030 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 Patricia Chin, co-founder of VP Records, receives a citation from Prime Minister Andrew Holness at Jamaica’s 62nd Independence Grand Gala held on August 6 at the National Stadium. ANTOINE LODGE/PHOTOGRAPHER WAITING FOR KAMALA >P4 VP Records’ Miss Pat ‘deeply honoured’ at Reggae Icon Award P2: Ambassador Audrey Marks heads list of diasporans named for national honours and awards P6: JCA marks 62nd anniversary P7: The People’s Ball, a sold-out gala affair Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday, August 6. AP - J’cans in diaspora look to convention speech to decide on Harris AS THE Kamala Harris campaign rolls towards the Democratic National Committee (DNC) convention in Chicago next week, where she will formally accept the nomination for president of the United States (US), many Jamaicans in the diaspora have adopted a wait-and-see attitude towards supporting her bid. >P2
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 2 SEVERAL MEMBERS of the overseas Jamaican communities were named in this year’s list to receive Jamaican national honours and awards. HEADING THE list is Jamaica’s Ambassador to Washington, Audrey Marks, who has been awarded membership in the Order of Jamaica. Also receiving national honours are Dr Karren Dunkley, who joins the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer (OD); Dr Novlet Davis-Bucknor, who has also been made a member of the OD; Mary Bishop, who will receive the Badge of Honour, and Marie Ruth Gill, who will also receive the Badge of Honour. Marks receives the OJ for her outstanding service to the government and people of Jamaica in her contribution to economic development, promotion of social development enterprises and to nation-building. Dunkley receives her honour for service to the Jamaican diaspora in the United States. Davis-Bucknor has been recognised for her contributions to community development and philanthropy. Davis-Bucknor leads a medical mission yearly to Clarendon in Jamaica. Gill receives the Badge of Honour (Meritorious Service) for contributions to the economic and technical development of Jamaican business owners in the United States. Bishop gets the Badge of Honour (Meritorious Service) for services in the field of philanthropy and contributions to the development of the diaspora in Canada. PREVIOUS ROLE Dunkley previously served as Global Jamaica Diaspora Council member for the United States Northeast region. Reacting to the news of her national honour, Dunkley said in a statement, “It is with profound humility and immense gratitude that I accept the Order of Distinction for service to the Jamaican diaspora. This honour is not just a personal achievement but a testament to our community’s collective efforts and unwavering dedication to advancing Jamaica’s national development.” She said she would dedicate the honour to her beloved mother, Barbara Carmeta-Dunkley, “whose support and love have been my guiding light. I also share this recognition with the many deserving sons and daughters of our soil”. Dunkley said Jamaica’s greatest asset is its people and she was honoured to continue this collaborative work of upliftment and unity for our community and country. “As we celebrate the gift of life during this 62nd Emancipendence season, let’s remain steadfast in putting God and country first and fulfilling the promise of Jamaica Land We Love,” she said. editorial@ gleanerjm. com Lester Hinds/Gleaner Writer AS THE Kamala Harris campaign rolls towards the Democratic National Committee (DNC) convention in Chicago next week, where she will formally accept the nomination for president of the United States (US), many Jamaicans in the diaspora have adopted a wait-and-see attitude towards supporting her bid. WHILE THERE has been a groundswell of support from Jamaicans in the US for the Harris campaign, with community leaders saying they have not seen such enthusiasm for a candidate since the candidacy of former president Barack Obama, others are awaiting her speech at the DNC convention, which takes place August 19 to August 22, before giving their full support Dr Michael Duncan told The Gleaner that, although he is leaning towards supporting her campaign, he wants to see the policies she will lay out during her convention speech. “I have not committed fully to supporting her campaign. For me, I want to hear what she has to say about some issues that I deem important. Immigration, support for the middle class, economic programmes to lift up those at the bottom of the economic ladder and resources for schools in our communities,”he said. Duncan further stated that he would like her to address, in her convention speech, ways to lift up young black men so that they can move into the middle class, create wealth and support a family. “Too often we hear elected politicians pay lip service to our community and do not follow through on their promises,” he said. Duncan, who indicated he was a registered Democratic, said no one should take his vote for granted. “It is time that issues confronting our communities are addressed in a concrete way and that is what I want to hear from her during her convention acceptance speech,” he said. Chris Daley, who is a patent examiner and lives in Maryland, told The Gleaner he wants to hear policy positions from Harris, the current US vice president, during her convention speech. “I am a registered independent and I have not made a decision on whether or not I am voting for her because I want to hear her policy positions during her acceptance speech,” he said. Daley said the fact that the vice president is a woman with Jamaican roots was not enough to make him go out and vote for Harris. “You have to earn my vote. Voting, that I take very seriously and policy positions matter to me,” he said. “I vote more than on persona.” Blane Studdart, businessman and community activist in the Philadelphia area, said he also has not made a decision on whether he would vote for Harris. “I am leaning towards voting for her, but I want to hear her policy positions on several areas,”he said. He listed such areas as immigration, job training for young black men, education and security. “There are more than half a million jobs available right now in the construction industry which are going unfulfilled because our young men are not being educated and trained for these jobs,”he said. According to Studdart, in her convention speech he wants to hear Harris set out policy positions that will benefit the middle class, create jobs, focus on education for young people and lift up those at the bottom of the economic ladder. He said everyone has to go to college but education is necessary to fill several jobs in the marketplace right now. Studdart also said he was hoping to see her move more towards the political centre where the majority of Americans reside. Sunvil Mitchell said he too has not made up his mind on Harris and he is awaiting her convention address. “I would like to hear specific policy proposals that are going to lift up the middle class and allow them to earn a decent living,” he said. He said, even though she has Jamaicans roots like himself, he wants to hear how she proposes to move the country forward, if she becomes president. editorial@gleanerjm.com National honours for several persons in the diaspora Ambassador Audrey Marks. CONTIBUTED J’cans in diaspora await convention speech to decide on Harris Daniel Wheeler/Gleaner Writer PARIS, FRANCE WHILE JAMAICA’S Paris Olympic campaign was filled with challenges and misfortune, Jamaica Olympic Association President Christopher Samuda said that there is still much to celebrate, reflect on, and learn from when the Olympic Games returns to Los Angeles in 2028. THE GAMES of the 33rd Olympiad ended on Sunday, August 11 at the Stade with fanfare as two weeks of performances concluded and Paris handed the reins to Los Angeles, who take over hosting duties in 2028. It will be the second time that the city of Los Angeles will host the Games and the fifth time that the United States will be responsible for organising them. Jamaica leaves Paris with six medals: one gold, three silver, and two bronze. While it has been a standout Games for Jamaica in the field events, they only accumulated two medals in the sprints. Jamaica’s athletics team was marred by injuries to five-time World 100 metres champion Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce as well as World 200m champion Shericka Jackson, who were forced to withdraw from the Games. While there have been problems on and off the field, Samuda believes that Jamaica should be proud of what the athletes achieved in Paris. “I think that it has gone relatively well for Jamaica. There have been, of course, challenges in terms of injuries, and certainly, that has not marred, really, the performances of persons like (Roje), Stona who has done exceptionally well,” Samuda said. “I feel that what we have to do is go back to the drawing board and see how best we can prepare our athletes. This is part of the territory, and we can’t really dwell on that.” The field events were history-making achievements, led by Stona, who won Jamaica’s first Olympic title in the discus; Rajindra Campbell, Jamaica’s first Olympic medal in the shot put; Shanieka Ricketts, who won Jamaica’s first Olympic medal in the triple jump; and Wayne Pinnock, who won Jamaica’s first men’s long jump Olympic medal in 28 years. Romaine Beckford, who was the country’s first Olympic finalist in the men’s high jump since 1956, said this was the Olympics that the field events finally got their stage to shine. “I don’t think Jamaica looks at field events that much, and it is not because they don’t see field events. It’s just that we had good athletes coming from the sprints that it overlooked the field events. But now, the field events are coming up and showing that we are not just good sprinters,” Beckford said. Jamaica’s six medals saw them finish seventh in track and field and 44th overall. It is their second lowest total since the 2000 Olympics in Sydney. Jamaica collected five medals at the 2004 Games in Athens, Greece, but two of those were gold. Veronica Campbell-Brown won the 200m, and the women captured the 4x100m. There is still much to celebrate - Jamaica Olympic Association President
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 3 Derrick Scott/Contributor WASHINGTON, DC: MOVING TO Republic status, even without immediately resolving the question of the final court of appeal, ‘is a practical and sensible approach’ to constitutional reform. THAT WAS the word from Prime Minister Andrew Holness in his Independence message to the diaspora, delivered at the 190th Emancipation and 62nd Independence church service held at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 28. Hundreds of Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica turned out to mark the nation’s two signature anniversaries, against the backdrop of a sermon delivered by President of the Jamaica Union of Seventh-day Adventists, Pastor Everett Brown. The affair also featured awards for District of Columbia-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) diaspora members singled out for extraordinary contributions over many years. Meanwhile, Holness maintained that, “It is now time for us to end our historical ties with the monarchy and stand wholly on our own. We need a Jamaican head of state who truly represents our values, culture, and aspirations, and who will symbolise our full sovereignty.” Constitutional reform is more than a legal necessity; it is an affirmation of our identity and our readiness to take complete control of our destiny, he concluded. “True independence is both political and economic. It means having control over our future and fostering an environment where local businesses can thrive, our youth can attain meaningful employment, and innovation and entrepreneurship are the bedrock of our economy,” Holness affirmed. He explained, “This is why we have invested in education, skills training, technology, and sustainable industries to build a resilient economy capable of withstanding global shocks. Economic independence is crucial to the sustainability of our people and country. “Most Jamaicans would be in support of shedding allegiance to the monarchy, a relic of our colonial past,” said Holness, although acknowledging that some have argued that this would be purely symbolic. But “we must acknowledge the symbols are of immense value in shaping national identity and pride”. In the message, read by the deputy chief of mission at the Jamaican embassy in Washington, DC, Lishann Salmon, the prime minister pointed out that “constitutional reform is a complex process and is best undertaken in phases”. He asked, “Should the apex court remain the Privy Council, or be the Caribbean Court of Justice? Or would full sovereignty dictate that our final court should be located right here in Jamaica? These are very important questions that need further consideration and consensus-building.” “Let us unite and move forward while we continue to debate and build consensus on the next steps,” Holness declared. COMMUNITY STALWARTS The prime minister stressed that national independence is of great significance and should be celebrated, and that Independence should also be ‘a time for collective reflection on our history and journey, as well as on our goals and aspirations as a people’. “It should be a time to actively embrace and recommit to a vision of peace, productivity, and prosperity for the future.” Referencing this year’s Independence theme “One Love to the World”, Pastor Brown in his sermon cautioned: “Before we go to the world we must in our interaction with each other in our service to each other, demonstrate our love for one another in practical and tangible ways.” He pointed out that “ultimately, the world will come to understand and appreciate that we are more than a country known for our beautiful whitesand beaches, our authentic reggae music and world-class sports men and women. We are a people of character and compassion, loving people”. The love that we hope to share with the world has the capacity and the power to change and transform lives, Pastor Brown stressed. “Love can cauterize poverty, discrimination, corruption, crime, violence, conflicts, inequality and injustice just to name a few of the pressing social issues that pose a real existential threat to our sustainable development as a country.” The Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV Award was presented during the service to three individuals, hailing their outstanding contributions to the Jamaican community. The recipients included community stalwarts Carmen Edwards, Doreen Thompson and Larry Sindass, founder and executive producer of CaribNationTV. Additionally, the Friends of Jamaica Award went to Performing Artists Under the Lord (P.A.U.L.) for their dedication and performances at the Jamaican church service in Washington, DC, for over 30 years. Proceeds from the collection taken up will be donated to the Black River Infirmary in St Elizabeth, which suffered severe damage from Hurricane Beryl. This gesture, it was noted, exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity and generosity within the Jamaican diaspora. The service was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials. as well as professor emeritus of Stanford University, Dr. Donald Harris, father of US Vice President Kamala Harris. It was moderated by Reverend Dr. Bertram Melbourne, dean of theology at Howard University, and assisted by Reverend Heron Henry, communications and media manager for Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention, and Bishop Stanley Murray, pastor of the Baltimore United Church of God. Republic status ‘practical and sensible approach’ – PM Deputy Chief of Mission at the Jamaican Embassy Lishann Salmon (centre) accepts a Proclamation from Governor of Maryland Wes Moore presented by Chairmanof the Maryland Commission on Caribbean Affairs Ambassador Curtis Ward. Looking on from left; are Commissioner Louis McSween and administrative director Maryland Governor’s Commission on Caribbean and Hispanic Affairs. The presentation was made during the church service of thanksgiving for Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of Independence and 190 years of Emancipation. Deputy Chief of Mission at the Jamaican Embassy Lishann Salmon (centre) shares a light moment with the Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV honorees – from left; Loriston Sindass, Linda Gatling, Carmen Edwards, and Doreen Thompson. President of the Jamaica Union of Seventh-Day Adventists, Pastor Everett Brown, delivers the sermon at the 190th Emancipation and 62nd Independence church service held at the Sligo Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 28. Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica lift their voices in song at the 190th Emancipation and 62nd Independence church service held at the Sligo Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 28. PHOTOS BY DERRICK SCOTT Message to diasporans celebrating Independence 62 and Emancipation 190 in Washington, DC, urges support
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 4 Yasmine Peru/ Senior Gleaner Writer ON INDEPENDENCE Day, August 6, accolades were heaped on VP Records, the reggae music conglomerate founded in 1977 by husband-and-wife team Vincent and Patricia Chin. Standing tall beside Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness and President of the Senate Tom Tavares-Finson was the diminutive Miss Pat – as Patricia Chin is affectionately called – who graciously received the prestigious Reggae Icon Award. “I have been away for 35 years and I never forget Jamaica. We have reggae music and the best culture in the world,” Chin told the capacity-filled National Stadium, to cheers. In an interview with The Gleaner, the businesswoman, author, and co-founder of the independent, Caribbeanowned record label which is located in Jamaica, Queens in New York, spoke of her passion for the music industry. “I am deeply honoured to receive the Reggae Icon Award during the Jamaica 62 Independence celebrations. I share this award with all the incredible artistes and producers I have had the privilege to work with over the years. I am grateful for the support and love from my family, friends, and everyone at VP Records,” an elated Chin told The Gleaner. VP Records, which has offices in New York City, Miami and London, is known for releasing music by able artistes in reggae, dancehall and soca. The story started more than half a century ago in Kingston, Jamaica. Vincent Chin stepped into the music industry by maintaining the jukeboxes located inside bars across the island. With his entrepreneurial spirit, he seized the opportunity to sell the old records from the jukeboxes that would be thrown out and replaced with new ones. Their bio notes that “in 1958, the success of the Chin’s jukebox record venture led to the opening of a landmark retail store at 23 Parade, Randy’s Records in downtown Kingston”. The couple later opened their own recording facility, Studio 17, which was used by artistes such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Gregory Isaacs, and others. Owing to several reasons, the Chins packed up and left Jamaica in the mid70s and opened their business in Jamaica, Queens, where they have been serving a flourishing Caribbean music market. Despite a 60-year journey in music, Miss Pat seems to be in her prime. Her coffee table book, Miss Pat: My Reggae Music Journey, was released in 2021 to critical acclaim. “I wanted to document something for my children and grandchildren. My parents never shared their story of how they came from India and China to Jamaica. I wanted my future generations to know the struggles, the joys, who I am, and who they are,” she told The Gleaner in a 2021 interview. Hers is a fascinating journey from humble beginnings in Greenwich Farm, Kingston, to the very pinnacle of a male-dominated industry. On Independence Day, the reggae music pioneer said that there was much to celebrate. “Jamaican music has been my love and passion, and I have witnessed its growth and impact over the years. Together, we continue to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Jamaica,” the VP Records matriarch shared. Other 2024 recipients of the Reggae Icon Award were Third World, Beenie Man and Bounty Killer. yasmine.peru@gleanerjm.com Miss Pat of VP Records ‘deeply honoured’ by Reggae Icon Award Flanking Patricia Chin, one of the recent recipients of the prestigious Reggae Icon Award and co-founder of VP Records, are her son Randy Chin (left) and Prime Minister Andrew Holness.. ANTOINE LODGE/PHOTOGRAPHER Dancehall artistes, Bounty Killer and Beenie Man.
DANCEHALL STAR Vybz Kartel, who was recently released from prison after more than a decade behind bars, has announced plans to sue the State for the costs incurred during his legal battles. The revelation came during a TikTok live session with his lawyer, Isat Buchanan. Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, expressed frustration over family time which he cannot recoup, but hinted at his intention to recover the substantial sums spent on his court proceedings. The deejay, known to his fans as the ‘Worl’ Boss’, revealed that he spent more than £600,000 (approximately J$119 million) for his appeal to be heard at the Privy Council in the United Kingdom, and an additional J$14 million during his recent retrial. Vybz Kartel could not estimate the cost of his initial 2014 murder trial, which spanned 65 days, but said that the financial strain was immense. In initially quashing the conviction in March, the Privy Council ordered the Government to pay the entertainer’s legal fees for his appeal. “Mi can’t get back them time deh weh mi miss out. When mi go in, my sons dem did little. Now them a man, mi daughter she even graduate,” he lamented. He also spoke about missing key moments in his family’s life, including the passing of his grandmother and other loved ones while he was incarcerated. THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 5 Please respond within six (6) weeks of the date hereof to: THE ADMINISTRATOR GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT 12 Ocean Boulevard, Kingston, Jamaica Telephone: 922-1830-3 or 922-0700-5 or 618-1542, Fax: 922-4201 E-Mail: admingen@agd.gov.jm Website: www.agd.gov.jm Administrator of the estates named below would like to contact the following persons, their personal representatives, beneficiaries or anyone knowing their whereabouts: THE ADMINISTRATOR-GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT FOR JAMAICA Canada United States of America England Canada Willowdene, St. Catherine, Jamaica Horizon Park, St. Catherine, Jamaica Canada Last Known Address Franklin Ashley Deon Ashley Kevin Ashley Paul Ashley Kaven Ashley Okeino Ashley Dawn Ashley Persons To contacted HERMAN ASHLEY late of 26 Mona Avenue Horizon Park, Spanish Town in the parish of Saint Catherine Estate Anyone knowing the whereabouts of SABRINA GATNNELL HASKINS KELLY, whose last known address is Arlington, Virginia 20301 in the United States of America, or anyone related to her is being asked to contact the offices of CT Walker Glegg, Attorneys-at-Law of 61 Manchester Road, Mandeville in the parish of Manchester, Jamaica. Telephone Nos. 876-503-4459/876-525-0069 Email: ctwalkerglegglegal@gmail.com or legalassistantctwg@gmail.com N O T I C E Will Gary Pinnock whose last known address is New York, United States of America or anyone knowing his whereabouts kindly contact the Child Protection and Family Services Agency, 10 Hanover Street, Spanish Town St. Catherine. Telephone: 876-301-4983 N O T I C E Vybz Kartel plans to sue the State Prime Minister Andrew Holness and National Security Minister Horace Chang (left) confer during the press briefing addressing the mass shooting in Four Paths, Clarendon on August 11. ANTOINE LODGE/PHOTOGRAPHER District Constable Michael Hall (right) and his son, Michael Hall Jr. CONTRIBUTED Dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel leaving the Tower Street Adult Correctional Facility after being set free by the Court of Appeal. With him are his fiancée, Sidem Ozturk, and Tommy Thompson of Brite Lite Funeral Home. RICARDO MAKYN/PHOTOGRAPHER [NEWS YOU MAY HAVE MISSED] FINGERS ARE being pointed at the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) as a conduit for organised crime following a mass shooting claiming eight lives and leaving 10 people injured in Four Paths, Clarendon, last Sunday night. Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Monday said that criminal players from overseas and incarcerated persons are believed to be behind the deadly attack on a group of more than 50 people gathered for a birthday celebration along Cherry Tree Lane. A seven-year-old boy was among those fatally hit, while a one-year-old infant is among those injured in the shock attack that sent chills down the nation’s spine. On Monday, Brigadier Radgh Mason, the head of the DCS, said it is difficult to plug the holes in correctional facilities, acknowledging that his subordinates are complicit in smuggling contraband or looking the other way. He said the DCS continues to conduct daily random searches, collaborate with the police, and implement technology to counter the recurring issue. Added to that, he said measures are being taken to prevent the public from throwing prohibited items over prison walls. Still, hits are ordered from inside the island’s prisons. A FATHER is laden with guilt over the death of his 14 year-old son, who was killed along with eight other relatives in a car accident in Palm Beach County, Florida in the United States (US) last Monday. District Constable Michael Hall said he travelled with his son, Michael Hall Jr, to visit his relatives in the US for the first time, and planned a summer filled with adventures. But those plans were tragically cut short. A sombre Hall told The Gleaner that he and his son left Jamaica for Connecticut on July 11 to visit relatives. The younger Hall was very excited to spend the summer holidays with his cousins who he would be meeting for the first time. The excited duo even documented the entire journey from their home in Ocean View, East Kingston to the airport, in photos and videos. Soon after they arrived in Connecticut, Hall said he sent his son with some cousins to spend time with his aunt in Florida. The aunt had also invited her other nieces and nephews from Ohio and New Jersey to spend part of the summer holidays with her. The tragic accident occurred when they were on their way to the airport to travel back to Connecticut. US media reported that the vehicle in which the family was travelling got out of control, drove off the road, slammed into a guardrail and then flipped over, landing in a canal. Hall Jr was among four who were pronounced dead at the scene while six others were taken to hospital. Only one of the injured, 21 year-old Jordan Hall, survived. The other victims were identified as eight year-old Imani Andre Ajani Hall, two year-old Naleia Tucker, five yearold Yasire Smith, 30 year-old Leiana Alyse Hall, 21 year-old Anyia Monique Lee Tucker, five year-old Kamdien Edwards, three year-old Ziaire Mack, and the driver, 56 year-old Pamela Wiggins. Porous prisons Heartache for cop as son among 9 family members killed in Palm Beach crash
Ministries Inc, who was presented with the community award (individual). He said the JCA has positively impacted many persons over the years and he was humbled to have been selected for the award. Outstanding volunteer of the year recipient Noel‘Monty’Lewis, a member of the Building Committee, shared that he has been with the association for over 20 years. He accepted the award on behalf of ‘those who, like him, were there from the beginning but are no longer able to volunteer’ like he can. Also receiving an outstanding volunteer of the year award was Prudence Betty, lead coordinator for the JCA’s Saturday morning tutorial programme, who expressed appreciation to be so recognised. Lisa Rutty, a past chair of the Membership Services Committee, received the president’s award for active participation and dedicated service including for work with the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council. Ned Blair, a Guyanese Canadian, who received the lifetime achievement award said it was an honour to be recognised by the diaspora instead of a Guyanese entity. “It’s good when others apart from my community see what I do and respond in his manner. And I’m grateful for their choice and I willingly accepted it.” Marblet James, another awardee expressed thanks for the honour. The diamond jubilee recognition award, in appreciation for 60 years of dedicated service and significant contribution to the Jamaican Canadian Association, was presented to Dr Vincent Conville and Kamala–Jean Gopie. “Anytime I receive anything from my peers, I respect and appreciate that; the people at JCA are my peers and I’ve been with them since 1968,” said Conville, a former president of the organisation. He was especially proud of its succession planning and all the youth involved. Gopie, who was the first female president of the JCA, shared that she became involved in 1975. “JCA is special for me because that’s how my volunteer life began and, of course, it’s gone to doing other things as well. And I’ve always been here for JCA over the years.” Absent were a representative of the Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) selected for the Community Service Organisation Award (Organisation) and Mary Barnswell, a lifetime achievement award recipient. RICH LEGACY Keynote speaker Chris Campbell, president of the Carpenters Union Local 27 and the only black person to hold that position in its over 140-year history, charted his path from growing up in Kingston, Jamaica to his life in Canada. He underscored the importance of youth choosing careers in the construction industry. “I saw obstacles as temporary delays along my 35-year journey in the industry – now looking forward to retirement. I’m aware that family, health, and employment commitment can, and will hinder ... chance of postsecondary education and training. Nonetheless, we must keep evolving, learning new skills and efficient ways of doing things.” Outlining his journey, and how he had benefited from the advice and help of others, he alluded to the African proverb, which says, “it takes a village to raise a child”. Campbell said his mother laid out the blueprint for his life; she sent him to Calabar All Age School at four years old, he passed the Common Entrance Examination for St Andrew Technical High School, and he became competitive while a student there. He recalled that his uncle, who was an electrician with the Jamaica Public Service for 40 years, would take him on weekends to do side jobs and that was where Campbell was exposed to the construction trade. At the end of his final year of high school, he travelled to Canada at 18 years old and decided to stay. He would cross paths with an ex-soldier and industrial electrician, Frank Lake, who he described as “the most influential villager” that he had ever met in his Canadian journey. It resonated well with the evening’s celebration of Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of Independence centred on a theme of love, resilience and community. Co-chairs, Michelle McKenzieDolly, vice president, and Dr Sylvanus Thompson, said “We honour the rich legacy of our forebears whose resilience and vision have shaped the Jamaica we cherish today.” THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 6 Neil Armstrong/Gleaner Writer TORONTO: THE JAMAICAN Canadian Association (JCA) honoured nine individuals and an organisation at its 62nd anniversary and Jamaica’s Independence gala at the Jamaican Canadian Community Centre. They were recognised for significant contributions to the Jamaican Canadian community and beyond. The 2024 awardees include Bishop James Robinson, founder of Faith Open Door Association marks its 62nd anniversary, Ja’s independence Bishop James Robinson receives the Community Award (Individual) from Dr Sylvanus Thompson, co-chair of the Independence Gala Committee at the JCA. Kamala-Jean Gopie receives the Diamond Jubilee Recognition Award from Herman Stewart, a past president of the JCA. She was recognised for almost 50 years of dedicated service and significant contribution to the association. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS MISSED 7 Dave Rodney/Gleaner Writer IT WAS the perfect New York City night out! After consecutive days of pouring rain, some of it brought on by the remnants of Hurricane Debby, the New York City skies suddenly cleared and a shimmering Saturday evening sunset formed the backdrop for the third annual People’s Ball, celebrating Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of independence. The sold-out, black-tie gala was presented by the Jamaica Independence Foundation, Inc and the cocktail hour started out on the sprawling, outdoor penthouse of the Terrace Park in Queens with its jaw-dropping, 180-degree view of the New York City skyline. Attendees screamed about the amazing weather. And they whispered about the colourful fashion parade that was unfolding with perfectly accessorised designer gowns flowing like the Hudson River, making creative use of the Jamaican colours. “What else would you expect when the Paris Olympics and Jamaica’s Independence are happening in the same week?” a guest chuckled, after having been complimented on her eye-popping black-and-gold embroidered gown as she showed off her freshly manicured emerald-green nails. Shortly after 8 p.m., the hundreds of attendees were ushered inside to their tables from where a multi-course dinner and the evening’s riveting entertainment were served. Once the presentation of colours and the singing of the national anthems of the United States and Jamaica were out the way, belly-bottom, backyard Jamaican laughter filled the ballroom, thanks to the comedic style of social media sensation Julie Mango and public relations executive Lyndon Taylor, who both emceed the event. Impeccable memory lane entertainment was provided by a live band, True Tribute, who delivered a greatly appreciated Skatalites set. They were later joined by reggae icon and award recipient Dean Fraser, and New Yorkbased singer with a powerful voice, Maricia Ramed. The evening’s keynote speaker was Clive W. Blackwood, executive vice-president and general auditor of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, who outlined the joys of Jamaica’s journey to his present status, but pointing out that as we quite rightly celebrate, one should bear in mind that the trip to our destination is not over yet and there is more work to be done. “Our history is that of ordinary people making extraordinary contributions,”Blackwood stated.“We celebrate and march towards the Promised Land because there is much more to come, based on everything we have seen our people overcome during the course of history,” he added. Mayoral and congressional awards were presented to Veronica Campbell Brown for her accomplishments in track and field; to Dean Fraser, saxophonist, for his contributions to global reggae; to Hyacinth Bloomfield for community service; and to Lamona Worrell, assistant commissioner in the New York City mayor’s office, for Caribbean community development. The Pinnacle Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in the Financial Services Industry went to Clive W Blackwood. He was also the recipient of a US House of Representatives Proclamation and a New York State Senate Proclamation for his more than 25 years of stellar contributions to banking and auditing. Blackwood’s awards were presented by US Congresswoman Yvette Clarke from the 9th District of New York. Clarke was dressed to impress in a splendiferous black, green and gold haute couture gown. A late surprise during the proceedings was the announcement that Saturday, August 10 had been declared Dean Fraser Day in New York City. A session of spirited dancing followed with music provided by DJ Bandit, who churned out an unending barrage of reggae classics, opening with Land of My Birth to explosive screams of approval. DJ Bandit followed up with enduring favourites like Ram Goat Liver, I Man Born Ya, One Love, Three Little Birds, and more. The classy, magical and fun-filled celebration ended at midnight. Among those in attendance were Victoria Harper, sponsor and executive with the Jamaica Tourist Board; Karl and Fay Rodney of New York Carib News; Sabrina Ho-Sang Jordan, CEO of Royal Caribbean Bakery & Caribbean Foods Delights; Ann Marie Grant, American Foundation for the University of the West Indies executive; Patrick Maitland, Street Hype; Marcia James, executive at the Kimberly Hotel; and Mike Williams from the Outside Lounge/ Eye Collection. entertainment@gleanerjm.com The People’s Ball the perfect New York City night out From left: Clive Blackwood, JTB’s Victoria Harper, marketing executive Dave Rodney and Jamaica travel advisor Maxine Grant share lens at The People’s Ball. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Saxophonist and award recipient Dean Fraser with Marcia James, executive at the Kimberly Hotel in New York. Sold-out, black-tie gala a celebration of Jamaica’s Independence Clive Blackwood, executive vice president and general auditor of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (second left) receives his award and proclamations from Congresswoman Yvette Clarke (second right). Julie Mango (left) and Julie ‘Lexy’ Brooks, president of the Jamaica Independence Foundation, Inc. (right) join in the moment.
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 8 THE OUTCOME of the US presidential elections will reverberate globally, impacting many nations. Every government, including those in the Caribbean, has begun to weigh which candidate’s victory might better serve their interests. The latest event in the campaign circus features Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, ridiculing the presumptive Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris, over her racial origin. Trump has questioned Harris’s race, saying, “She was always of Indian heritage, and she was only promoting Indian heritage. I didn’t know she was black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn black.” Trump made this remark at an appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists where he was interviewed live by a black journalist. The remark was clearly intended to dilute support for Harris among black journalists. Historically, race has always been a significant factor in US politics, dating back to 1863 when Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all enslaved people were to be set free. Throughout US history, the Civil Rights movement has fought for black people’s rights, including the right to vote and hold office. The election of Barack Obama as the ‘first black president’ of the US overcame significant barriers. However, for many white Americans, the issue of black people in high office became more pronounced. Trump exploited this ‘fear’ of black people in political life against Obama by emphasising his blackness while ignoring his white heritage. Now, with rising confidence among black people concerning their legitimate place in all aspects of US society, and their recognition of the Age, race, and fear – the US elections and Caribbean interests This combination of photos taken at campaign rallies in Atlanta shows Vice President Kamala Harris on July 30, 2024, left, and Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump on Aug. 3. Trump and Harris held the dueling rallies four days apart, but the dynamics showcased how deeply divided the American electorate is. The Harris crowd was majority Black and female. Trump’s crowd was overwhelmingly white. They listened to different music. They heard wildly different arguments on immigration, the economy, voting rights. Either Harris or Trump will win. The question is how widely the winner will be accepted. (AP PHOTO) UNCREDITED power of their vote, Trump is using the race card differently against Harris. He is seeking to portray her as“Indian”and not “black”, to diminish her standing with black voters. SPOTLIGHT Further, Harris has come under the spotlight of Trump because he and his political disciples successfully managed to engineer the withdrawal of the previous presumptive nominee, President Joe Biden, on the basis that he is old and feeble. Biden was 81 when he decided to withdraw as a candidate for election. Trump was 78 – a mere three years younger than Biden. Remarkably, having eliminated Biden, Trump is now the oldest presidential candidate in US history, and the question of being “too old” has disappeared from his campaign. Given a younger and nimbler opponent, Trump is employing race against Harris by questioning her blackness and emphasising her Indianness. Nonetheless, with the strong support she has already received from the hierarchy of the Democratic Party, she is certain to be the party’s nominee for the presidential election in November. Fear has also been used as a political tool by both sides, and it will likely become the dominant theme in the weeks and days ahead. Trump is portraying Harris as a “socialist”, claiming that she will encourage immigration and refugees who, according to him, are for the most part criminals, rapists, and drug traffickers. Immigrants and refugees are being painted as a serious threat to US society generally. He has added that immigrants are taking ‘black jobs’. Intrinsic to this argument is that black people are mostly employed in low-skill or labouring jobs that immigrants and refugees are grabbing, dislocating black people. An underlying theme of the Trump campaign is that the US is not ready for a woman as president,and certainly not for a black woman. This premise is being developed into another ‘fear’ in the campaign. On the other side, Harris is also using fear as a tool against Trump. She has cast him as a villain who is a convicted felon, a woman abuser, a fraudster, and a tax dodger, undeserving of the US presidency. Drawing on her background as a prosecutor, she has declared that she knows Trump’s “type”. All of this is par for the political course. The factors are the same in politics globally. WATCHING In the Caribbean, governments are watching this race, trying to determine which of the two candidates would be best for them. They see a surface difference between a woman of Indian-Jamaican heritage, likely to continue policies of Obama and Biden. However, there was no great benefit for the region from either Obama or Biden. While the administrations of both men acknowledged the fundamental challenges confronting the region, the steps that were taken did not transform their capacity to overcome these challenges. Those who had high expectations of Obama because he was “black” learned that, rightly, he was the president of the US, concerned with his own country. The same situation will prevail if Harris wins the presidency. The fact of her Jamaican and Indian parents will not cause her to prioritise either Jamaica (and, by extension, the Caribbean) or India. She is an American and, if elected as president, will focus her attention on US national interests at home and abroad. The Caribbean has also had experience with Trump as president. His present presidential campaign does not suggest that his isolationist posture will change or that he has any interest in the Caribbean, which, apart from Guyana and Suriname, holds little attraction to the US either as a market or as a location for resources such as oil and gas. Beyond curbing immigration and refugees, principally from Haiti, and restricting the flow of illegal drugs through the region, the previous attitude toward the region is unlikely to change. For these reasons, the Caribbean should not believe that it has a stake in the US presidential fight. Who is elected US president is a matter for the voters of the US. Once a new administration is in place, the region will have to work to command as much attention as it can in order to address its concerns on the practical basis of shared values and mutual concerns. The race or party affiliation of the president will be of no consequence. Sir Ronald Sanders is Antigua and Barbuda’s ambassador to the US and the OAS. The views expressed are entirely his own. For responses and previous commentaries, visit www. sirronaldsanders.com. Sir Ronald Sander
WCFF media partner Alt-Africa, the luxury bespoke Arts and Culture print and online going out guide celebrating diversity and inclusion in the creative industries. Joy Coker, publisher and founding editor of Alt-Africa, said: “Menelik’s work was about representation and speaking truth to power. He brought important stories to our attention that might have been buried if he had followed the status quo. Like Menelik, Nadine’s moving film was powerful storytelling that gives voice to the less represented.” Fearless, which won Best Film, is written by Noella Mingo, whose parents are from Guyana. It is a heart-warming documentary that features six women aged between 78 and 90 years. As young women they left their homes in the Caribbean, Ireland and South Asia to answer post WWII Britain’s call for workers. The film uses archive film and photography to interweave pivotal moments in women’s social history with the interviewees’ memories of life in Britain. They include the Notting Hill uprising and the fight for racial equality in housing and jobs. The immigrant workers’ rights fought for by the Grunwick factory strikers and the lengths mothers went to in order to ensure their children received a proper education. WCFF also marked this year’s Windrush Day with an all-day screening of films at The Ritzy and a very special outdoor screening for the Friends of Windrush Square’s Big Caribbean Lunch. 9 LONDON: SEVERAL INDIVIDUALS were recognised for outstanding contribution to the community at the closing ceremony of the fifth Windrush Caribbean Film Festival (WCFF) held at The Ritzy cinema in Brixton, south London. The festival ran from June 21 to 30 and had special screenings of over 30 films in Wales, Birmingham and London. SPECIAL AWARDS were presented to veteran activist and former chair of the Black Cultural Archives, Dawn Hill CBE who received the Paulette Wilson Justice Award for sterling work within the black community spanning over four decades, while journalist Nadine While was the recipient of the Menelik Shabazz Award for her highly acclaimed first film, Barrel Children: The families Windrush Left Behind. In addition to the special awards, the WCFF also recognised outstanding work by writers and filmmakers who participated in the 2024 Festival. The official WCFF jury voted for Returned from Janet Marrett as the Best Short Film while the Best Feature Film Award was awarded to That Great British Documentary by Joan Hillary. The coveted Best Film award was given to Fearless from director Noella Mingo. INDOMITABLE SPIRIT This year’s festival theme was Transitions and Travels: The Journey Continues with screening in Wales, Birmingham and London as well as online viewing of all films with a festival pass. The award named after Windrush campaigner Paulette Wilson, to Dawn Hill was in recognition of her outstanding leadership role within the community. One of her major achievement was setting up free legal clinics to secure justice for those victimised by the Windrush scandal when she was chair of Black Cultural Archives. The WCFF created the award in honour of Wilson’s tireless fight against deportation to Jamaica and helping to bring the Windrush scandal to national attention in 2016 following her own personal battle. Ansel Wong, director of WCFF, said: “Dawn is pioneer, matriarch and activist all rolled into one. She transcended all barriers with her indomitable spirit and determination to make change. Quiet but robust in her intervention, charming in her championing of her community and assured engaging with power brokers at every level of society. “Dawn has stood her ground no matter who she comes in contact with. She is an icon of our Caribbean diaspora. There can be no worthier recipient for this year’s Paulette Wilson Justice Award.” PIVOTAL MOMENTS Journalist Nadine White, the Independent newspaper’s race correspondent, became a first-time filmmaker in 2023 with her lauded documentary Barrel Children: The Families Windrush Left Behind, a moving examination of Caribbean children left behind by their parents who migrated to help rebuild Britain after WWII. She received the WCFF’s Menelik Shabazz Award to recognise an up-andcoming British filmmaker of Caribbean heritage. This award is sponsored by Special awards presented at Windrush Caribbean Film Festival Veteran community activist Dawn Hill CBE (left) receives the Paulette Wilson Justice Award from Windrush Caribbean Film Festival co-founder Frances Anne Solomon at the closing ceremony in Brixton. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Windrush Caribbean Film Awards 2024 winners and presenters take the stage after the presentation of awards at The Ritzy in Brixton, south London. Veteran activist Dawn Hill receives Paulette Wilson Justice Award THE MONTHLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS
THE WEEKLY GLEANER | AUGUST 15 - AUGUST 21, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | CLASSIFIEDS 10 601 LEGAL NOTICES 601 LEGAL NOTICES 600 LEGAL IN AUGUST 2023, Norma Jarrett and Sandy Senior partnered with Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons for the inaugural Jamaican Independence flag-raising ceremony. The event was a huge success, and there was an overwhelming call for it to be an annual event. This year, attendees again displayed great enthusiasm and patriotic pride in raising the Jamaican flag a day following the 62nd anniversary of their island nation’s Independence. The event, hosted at the Stamford Government Center, saw many Jamaican nationals and friends of Jamaica, including officials, out for the milestone celebration. The flag- raising ceremony also garnered support from local Jamaican restaurateurs, including Scotty’s, Sunshine Cuisine, Top of the Hill, Caribbean Bakery and Jerkyz (whose owner hosted the consul general). Liz Sue Bagles, DeMaurio Bakery and Kathie’s also supported the event. With numerous Jamaican and Caribbean immigrants residing in Fairfield County, Connecticut, the organisers look forward to continued collaboration in the years to come. Flag-raising ceremony in CT marks Independence celebration From left: CT State Senator Patricia Billie Miller, Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, Sandy Senior, Jamaica Consul General to NY Alsion Wilson, Norma Jarrett, CT State House Representative Rachel Khanna, Stamford Board of Representative. Jonathan Jacobson, and Jody Bishop Pullen, Stamford director of health and social services. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Consul General to New York Alsion Wilson with consulate staff and NYPD officers at a flag-raising ceremony to mark Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of Independence. The event was held in Manhattan recently. Consul General Alsion Wilson with New York City Mayor Eric Adams at a flag-raising ceremony to mark Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of Independence. The event was held in Manhattan recently. CLASSIFIEDS / EVENTS NOTICE OF PROCEEDINGS IN THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF JAMAICA IN THE CIVIL DIVISION CLAIM NO. SU2022FD01856 BETWEEN CHRISTOPHER GEORGE HOWELL PETITIONER AND SHAWMEN ANGELLA HOWELL RESPONDENT TAKE NOTICE that the PETITION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE between CHRISTOPHER GEORGE HOWELL and SHAWMEN ANGELLA HOWELL of Burnside, Red Hills P.O in the parish St. Andrew has been filed in the Honourable Court endorsed with a Notice to you to file an acknowledgement of service whether in person or by an Attorney-at-Law at the registry of the Supreme Court. King Street. Kingston within TwentyEight (28) days after the date of the second publication of Notice of Proceedings in the Weekly Gleaner and to file answer to the charges therein and in default of your so doing the court will bear the evidence and pronounce judgement your absence notwithstanding. Dated the 15th day of July N. Fearon Registrar (Ag) NOTE: It is requested that attention may be drawn to this Notice by anyone knowing the whereabouts of the person to whom it is address. Filed by CHANTELL HOWELL, Attorneys-atLaw of Regus, 9th Floor, PanJam Building, 60 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston, Jamaica whose telephone number is 876533-3987 and email address chowell.law@gmail.com. Miscellaneous No. 213052 UNDER THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES LAW OFFICE OF TITLES P.O. BOX 494KINGSTON Miscellaneous No. 213052 UNDER THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES LAW OFFICE OF TITLES P.O. BOX 494 KINGSTON August 20, 2018 WHEREAS I have been satisfied by Statutory Declaration that the duplicate Certificate of Title for ALL THAT parcel of land; Parish: ST. THOMAS Property Name: PART OF DALVEY CALLED ALLAN TOWN Area: 1765.44 Sq. 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