THE MONTHLY GLEANER | OCTOBER 10 - NOVEMBER 6, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 2 Lester Hinds/Gleaner Writer INITIAL REPORTS from communities of Jamaicans in the Florida area indicate that they have weathered Hurricane Milton with little damage and no known loss of lives. Oliver Mair, Jamaica’s consul general to Miami, said that according to results of initial checks by his office, the communities were largely spared the battering of the massive storm system. “I have been in constant touch with Jamaicans in the hurricane-affected communities and these checks have revealed no loss of lives, so far, and merely minor property damage. The biggest impact seems to have been loss of power,” he said. Mair said that in the coming hours there would be a better sense of the hurricane’s true impact as his office receives updated reports from the communities. Hurricane Milton landed in Florida late Wednesday as a category 3 storm, leaving an early estimate of four persons dead and more than three million persons without electricity. The hurricane also spawned several tornadoes which authorities said contributed to the deaths. Mair said that tornadoes posed a bigger threat to the Jamaican communities but so far there were no reports of major destruction to properties. Peter Gracey, the Global Jamaican Diaspora council member for the Southern region of the United States, and a resident of the Orlando area, also told The Gleaner that his checks with members of the communities revealed no deaths and only minor property damage. “We have downed trees, a loss of electricity and some water damage but so far we are not getting reports of any major damage or a loss of lives.” Gracey said that many Jamaicans in the Tampa Bay area had evacuated and he was unable to get in touch with them to ascertain how they fared with the hurricane. “We should have a clearer picture as the day proceeds,” he said. He said the loss of power across the areas and rising water levels were the major concern at the moment. Former diaspora leader and attorney, Wayne Golding, told The Gleaner that from all reports he received, Jamaicans fared well from the hurricane. “There has been mostly wind damage but I am not getting any reports of major property damage or loss of lives.” Derrick Scott/Contributor WASHINGTION DC: GRACE JONES, the Jamaican international superstar, is among four notable individuals to be featured and honoured at the highly anticipated 2024 Hummingbird Gala, scheduled for Friday, October 25, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. A signature event of the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), at this year’s edition of the prestigious annual affair, the AFJ will bestow its International Achievement Award on the worldrenowned Jamaican-born singer, songwriter, model and actress. Grace Jones is also a Jamaican-American icon known for her profound influence on the disco music scene and her groundbreaking work as a model and actress. The October 25 affair will also honour Vanessa Noel, a renowned luxury shoe designer and restaurateur, who will recognised for her contributions to philanthropy and the arts. Meanwhile, the International Humanitarian Award will be conferred upon Robert and Mark White, who have significantly impacted Jamaica’s economy through their pioneering work in the paper industry. Not only does the event serve as a glamorous night of celebration, but also as a crucial opportunity for corporate engagement, brand awareness, and goodwill, all while supporting impactful programmes in Jamaica. Adding to the event’s prestige, Michelle Miller, CBS News correspondent, will be the emcee for the 2024 Hummingbird Gala. Her involvement further underscores the significance of this gathering, which continues to attract notable figures who share a commitment to philanthropy and community support in Jamaica. AFJ is thrilled to welcome Kristina Newman-Scott as a gala co-chair, alongside Annie Lazarus, Morgan Kret, and Tara Favors. Newman-Scott is an award-winning leader with over 20 years of experience in the public and nonprofit sectors, focusing on arts, culture, and media. She currently serves as the secretary of the Board for Americans for the Arts and chairs the Department of Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission for the City of New York. The 2024 Hummingbird Gala promises an elegant evening featuring a silent auction, a three-course dinner, exquisite wines, and premium entertainment. The gala will offer a unique opportunity to engage with business leaders, government officials, high-profile donors, and other supporters committed to giving back. Caron Chung, AFJ executive director, states, “We look forward to honouring these distinguished individuals and welcoming our community of supporters of Jamaica. As always, the annual gala offers an opportunity for fun and camaraderie while promoting the continuance and progression of AFJ’s legacy and mission.” For over 40 years, the AFJ has been dedicated to supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic development, including expanding the hand-held ultrasound device initiative to 18 hospitals. All proceeds from the 2024 New York Gala will go toward vital programmes that advance the mission of the AFJ in Jamaica. Minimal damage from Milton A house lies toppled off its stilts after the passage of Hurricane Milton, in Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island, Fla., Thursday, October 10. AP PHOTOS An apparent tornado caused by Hurricane Milton tore the awning off a 7-Eleven convenient store, Wednesday, October 9. J’can communities in Florida fare well during passage of massive storm system American Friends of Jamaica to honour Grace Jones in NYC Caron Chung, AFJ executive director. DERRICK SCOTT Grace Jones, Jamaican international superstar CONTRIBUTED moya.thomas@gleanerjm.com Moya Thomas anthony.smith@gleanerjm.com Anthony Smith - Chief Executive Officer
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