FREE | PAGES: 16 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com SIGN UP FOR OUR EPAPER @ epaper.jamaica-gleaner.com/na P4: Senator Marks, William Mahfood among AFUWI gala honourees CELEBRATING P10: Jamaica College Old Boys Association of Canada marks 39th anniversary P14: On your mark ... All set for Penn Relays 129! HER! P12-13 A SHOWCASE OF WOMEN IN THE DIASPORA WHO CONTINUE TO INSPIRE OUR GENERATION P6: COJO honours eight at 30th anniversary gala MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | VOL 2035
Lester Hinds/Gleaner Writer JAMAICA-BORN CARSON ‘Eddie’ Edwards is the new city commissioner in the city of Miramar, Florida, coming out victorious in Tuesday’s special election to fill the vacant seat. Edwards, who was born in Kingston and attended Harbour View Primary and Ardenne High schools, secured 41.6 per cent of the votes cast. His nearest rival received 33 per cent of the votes. Four candidates ran for the seat. Edwards will now serve out the remaining two years of the term before running for a full four-year term in 2026. The seat became vacant when the person who had it was elected county commissioner. A first-time candidate, Edwards told The Gleaner that his win means he will be able to serve the people of south Florida. “It means that I will be able to open doors and provide access to resources to the people of the City, especially business people,” he said. Edwards said his goal is to help keep the city on the path of success while strengthening areas of deficiency. Edwards migrated to the United States in 1979 after working with Air Jamaica and Jamintel. He started his own business and became a radio show host. He is a co-founder of the Jamaican Jerk Fest held in Florida and New York. Edwards said he would continue to put on Jerk Fest. STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY His message to Jamaicans who are green card-holders, and who are eligible, to apply for their citizenship so that they can vote in US elections. “We need to strengthen our community as a voting block so as to influence elections not only at the local and state levels, but also at the federal level,” he told The Gleaner. Edwards said that he was looking to represent all the people of the city of Miramar and not just the Caribbean community. With his election, two of the city commissioners are Jamaica-born while another two are of Jamaican descent. Edwards is a former head boy at Ardenne where he served alongside prominent educator Esther Tyson who was head girl. His campaign received the backing of many prominent Jamaicans in the South Florida area as they rallied to get him elected. Jamaica-born John T. Hodgson, who himself was elected city commissioner of Lauderhill in November and who campaigned for Edwards, welcomed the election of Edwards and described him as a hard worker who is a wellknown community activist. “He is always visible and accessible. He has created employment in the community and has been involved in political campaigns for over 25 years,” Hodgson told The Gleaner. He said he believed Edwards’ election would benefit the people of Miramar as he brings a certain level of expertise, especially in the areas of entertainment and jobs creation. “I look forward to working with him to strengthen the Jamaican and Caribbean communities,” said Hodgson. editorial@gleanerjm.com THE MONTHLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 2 Will Mr. Damian Baker of a St. Elizabeth, Jamaica address or anyone knowing his whereabouts, kindly contact the Child Protection & Family Services Agency, 10 Hanover Street, Spanish Town, St. Catherine, Jamaica at 876-301-4983. N O T I C E Anyone knowing the WHEREABOUTS of the following person: MR. GEORGE MILLS LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 50 ¼ Lyndhurst Road, Kingston 10, Saint Andrew PLEASE CONTACT: Phillipson Partners Attorneys- at Law 48 Constant Spring Road Kingston 10 Jamaica (876) 920-1001-3 Email: ppy@cwjamaica.com ruth.baker@pplawja.com This is regarding an urgent legal matter concerning an estate. N O T I C E Will Mr. Keith Roberts, whose last known address is 31 Gols Road, Upper Darby, PA, 19082 anyone knowing of his whereabouts kindly contact the Family Court, 55A Duke Street, Kingston, Telephone # (876) 633-7107. NOTICE AS THE immigration policies being implemented by the Donald Trump Administration take hold, travel anxiety has developed among Jamaican green card holders in the United States (US). As a result, the island’s tourism industry is bracing for a possible downturn in arrivals from the north. REPORTS REACHING The Sunday Gleaner are that several green card holders who would normally travel to Jamaica, especially over the summer, are having second thoughts about taking the trip. The Sunday Gleaner reached out to some of these persons to gauge their travel plans. One man, who asked only to be identified as Richard, said he was still deciding whether to travel to Jamaica later this year as he has done in the past. “I am half and half. I am concerned with all the new policies that keep changing day to day and I am not sure that I want to take the chance of going to Jamaica and not being able to rejoin my family in the US,” he said. Richard, who moved to the US in 2016 and got his green card in 2018, told The Sunday Gleaner that his wife and children are US citizens and he would be concerned about not being able to reunite with his family. “If I was alone it would not matter as I have a business in Jamaica and can live comfortably in Jamaica but, being separated from my family is my major concern,” he said. Richard, who was born in Westmoreland and worked for Air Jamaica before moving to the US, told The Sunday Gleaner that he was not interested in becoming a citizen of the US but has now applied as his wife is scared for him. According to Richard, who lives in California, he has no issues with the law, not even a speeding ticket, but he is still concerned about travelling because of the uncertainty created by the changing US immigration policies. 10-YEAR GREEN CARD HOLDER Gary, the holder of a 10-year green card who also did not want his full name used, told The Sunday Gleaner that he too was having second thoughts about travelling to Jamaica later this year. A resident of Atlanta, Georgia, Gary said he has small children in Jamaica and wants to visit with them but is having doubts about travelling because of the immigration policies. Born in St Thomas, he has lived in the US for the past five years, got his green card in 2023 and says he has never been in trouble with the law. “My doubts come from the fact that every day is something new and I feel that I may have problems re-entering J’can green card holders wary about US travel ... as Trump immigration policies take hold Jamaica-born Eddie Edwards wins special commissioner election in south Florida Carson ‘Eddie’ Edwards Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett Irwine Clare, head of Caribbean Immigration Service. Please see TRAVEL, P3
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 3 every day is something new and I feel that I may have problems re-entering the United States,” he said. Gary noted that he felt more comfortable and travelled to Jamaica last year under the Joe Biden Administration. Edmund Bartlett, minister of tourism, speaking with The Sunday Gleaner, acknowledged that the tourism sector was bracing for the possibility that the US immigration policies could affect arrivals. “The information that we are getting is that green card holders are feeling intimidated about travelling and this could impact us,” Bartlett said. Bartlett said the US remains Jamaica’s major tourist market and that his ministry was monitoring how the immigration policies would affect US outbound airline traffic. He said the Jamaican tourist industry still has the possibility of tapping into the European, African American and Asian communities in the US. Bartlett noted that flights to Jamaica are still down but his ministry would be aggressively partnering with airlines and engaging them. He said the airlift supply chain is still being impacted by airlines being unable to get new planes to increase seat capacity. Lorraine Smith, a Jamaican flight stewardess with Spirit Airlines, said she has seen an impact on airline loads. PLANES ARE NOT AS FULL “The planes are not as full as they usually are,” Smith, who flies into both Kingston and Montego Bay, told The Sunday Gleaner. Smith said there are lots of seats on the Spirit Airlines flights from Ft Lauderdale to Kingston and Montego Bay as people seem not to be travelling because of uncertainty around the immigration policies. Audley Deidrick, president and CEO of the Airports Authority of Jamaica, told The Sunday Gleaner that airline loads into Jamaica were down in February this year. He said while he believes the Trump immigration policies are affecting travel somewhat he could not attribute the fall-off in numbers solely to those policies. “There is definitely some concern about travel in light of the new immigration policies but there are people who are citizens of the United States who are also not travelling,” he told The Sunday Gleaner. Deidrick said that, with numbers down on aviation traffic, there was bound to be some impact on Jamaica’s tourism industry. Figures from MBJ, which operates Sangster International Airport, show that, in January this year, there were 459,679 passengers who arrived in the island through its gates. This was 5.8 per cent less than the budgeted 488,348 and 7.5 per cent fewer than the 496,689 recorded in January 2024. In February, the number of passengers fell to 403,146, which was also 7.7 per cent less than the budgeted 436,930. It was also down 9.9 per cent from 447,488 passengers who arrived during the same period in 2024. Deidrick, who was speaking with The Sunday Gleaner before Friday night’s fire at Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA), pointed out that airline traffic into NMIA has been less negatively impacted when compared to SIA. Meanwhile, Irwine Clare, head of the Caribbean Immigration Service, told The Sunday Gleaner that Jamaican green card holders who have had no legal issues in the past should not be afraid to travel. He, however, warned people who are uncertain to consult an attorney before travelling. “I would advise people who have had legal issues in the past to stay at home or seek the advice of an attorney before travelling,” he said. Clare also urged Jamaican green card holders who are eligible to apply for the US citizenship, noting that there are no good reasons why someone who can apply for citizenship has not taken such steps. editorial@gleanerjm.com TRAVEL Continued from, P2 Lester Hinds/Gleaner Writer A CHANGE is coming to Jamaica’s top diplomatic post in the United States (US), with retired Major General Antony Anderson set to replace Audrey Marks as the island’s ambassador in Washington, DC, at the end of the month. ANDERSON, A former commissioner of police, will also assume the position of Jamaica’s permanent representative to the Organization of American States (OAS) while Marks has been appointed to the Senate. Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade, made the announcement of Anderson’s appointment in a news release shortly after the Office of the Prime Minister announced that Marks would be stepping down and joining Parliament’s Upper House. “We are very pleased that Major General Anderson will assume this role at a time when Jamaica looks to strengthen its security partnerships,” Johnson Smith said.“His leadership and expertise will also be critical in advancing Jamaica’s wider priorities, fostering deeper collaboration with the United States while engaging strategically within the OAS. He will build on the strong foundation laid by Ambassador Audrey Marks, whose service has been instrumental in advancing our bilateral agenda.” The minister said the new ambassador-designate would take up his post imminently but did not give a date. Anderson, the foreign ministry said, brings decades of experience in defence, security, and strategic leadership. He previously served as chief of defence staff of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) before becoming Jamaica’s first national security advisor, “where he played a critical role in shaping national security policy and international cooperation”. Said the ministry: “As commissioner of police, he spearheaded modernisation efforts in the Jamaica Constabulary Force, advancing technology integration and organisational reform to enhance public safety and law enforcement.” In announcing Marks’ Senate appointment, Holness said she brings a wealth of experience in diplomacy, business, and public service to her new role. “Her extensive experience in strengthening Jamaica-US bilateral relations and advocating for Jamaica’s interest at the OAS will be invaluable in her new role in national policy and legislative development,” the prime minister said in his announcement. In a text message to The Gleaner, the outgoing ambassador acknowledged her departure from the position that she has held since 2016. STRONG RELATIONSHIP Marks said in a statement that she was leaving at a time when “the relationship between the United States and Jamaica remains strong where both countries have enjoyed a long history of mutually beneficial cooperation grounded in geographic proximity, historical and cultural ties”. She also expressed her gratitude to the Jamaican Diaspora in the US with which she said she had the privilege to work. Holness said he looked forward to her continued contributions to nation-building through her service in the Senate. Marks was Jamaica’s 13th ambassador to the US and the only woman to hold the position. She also served as permanent representative to the OAS. Marks was first appointed ambassador in 2010 and served for two years until 2012. She was again appointed ambassador in 2016. She is the only person ever to have been appointed to the position twice. Marks has long hinted at a desire to leave the position and was expected to do so last year but decided to stay on following Donald Trump’s election to a second term as US president. She has been credited with developing a number of bilateral arrangements between the US and Jamaica. Through her efforts, the Joe Biden Administration earmarked some US$10-million for at-risk children in Jamaica, an initiative that was announced by then US Vice President Kamala Harris. Marks also initiated a scholarship programme for Jamaican students with Howard University through the Jamaica’s Promise Foundation. Due to the COVID pandemic, she developed and hosted the ‘Let’s Connect’ town hall meetings that gave Jamaicans the opportunity to interact with various ministers of government, including Holness. An entrepreneur, Marks started a number of companies in Jamaica. She was the founder of Paymaster Jamaica Limited, an online bill-paying system that started in 1997. She holds a bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from The University of the West Indies, Mona, and Nova Southeastern University in Florida, respectively. Marks is the recipient of numerous citations and recognition from her peers and various organisations for her pioneering work, entrepreneurial endeavours, and commitment to social causes. These include Ernst & Young Nominee for the ‘Caribbean Entrepreneur of the Year 2000’; Business Leader of the Year Award nominee for 2000; and the Florida International University Business Leader of the Year Award for 2003 and 2010. She was, last year, awarded the Order of Jamaica by the Jamaican Government. As reports of her leaving spread through the diaspora, tributes have been paid to her tenure as ambassador. GOOD REPRESENTATION Dr Robert Clarke, president of Health Jamaica Medical Mission, which undertakes medical missions to Jamaica, told The Gleaner that Marks represented Jamaica well and was always supportive of the Jamaican Diaspora. “I worked with her to get medical and school supplies to Jamaica, and she was always there to smooth the way should the need arise,” he said. Clarke disclosed that as president of the National Association of Jamaican and Supportive Organizations, he would have monthly meetings with her to discuss how best to assist Jamaica. He also recalled working with the ambassador to assist Jamaica during the COVID-19 pandemic. Irwine Clare, head of Team Jamaica Bickle, said that during her tenure, he worked well with her and ensured that she was honoured at the Penn Relays. “I wish her well in whatever future endeavours that she undertakes. She served Jamaica well as ambassador,” he told The Gleaner. Dr Z. Roy Davidson, head of Global Healthy Network in California, described Marks as always being supportive of Jamaicans and Jamaican organisations and making several trips to the West Coast to support the efforts of Jamaican organisations. “She was a dedicated public servant who was always there for us,” he said. Owen Eccles, immediate past president of the Jamaican Organisation of New Jersey, said the announcement of the ambassador’s impending departure was a shock to the diaspora, especially its members in New Jersey. “She has served the diaspora and Jamaica with distinction. She was an affable and compassionate envoy and was a great advocate for Jamaica,” he said. Eccles said her passion for Jamaica was evident in her encouragement to build Jamaica and care for the less fortunate. editorial@gleanerjm.com Former police commish is new ambassador to US Marks Anderson Audrey Marks leaving Washington to join Senate
Caribbean Gold Award. The Dominicaborn athlete made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics by winning the women’s triple jump, marking the first-ever Olympic gold for her home country. Her achievement has inspired pride throughout the Caribbean. The management and staff of Half Moon Hotel, who will be presented with the Pinnacle Award for Excellence in Global Hospitality Services. Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Half Moon is renowned for its world-class service, earning accolades from Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and Travel & Leisure. Beyond hospitality, the team actively supports Cornwall Regional Hospital, SOS Children’s Village, and scholarship programmes for underprivileged students. THE MONTHLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 4 WASHINGTON, DC: NEWLY-APPOINTED MINISTER with responsibility for efficiency, innovation and digital transformation, Senator Ambassador Audrey Marks, former ambassador to the United States, and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States in Washington, DC, is to be honoured by the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) with its prestigious Trailblazer Award for the Class of 2025. The ambassador will be presented with the award at the AFUWI Foundation’s 28th annual awards gala in New York City on Friday, April 4. It will recognize the former ambassador’s exceptional contributions to diplomacy, service to the Jamaican diaspora, and dedication to nation-building, the AFUWI Foundation notes. As AFUWI executive director AnnMarie Grant puts it, Ambassador Marks has demonstrated “a remarkable commitment to promoting educational growth as a vital driver of national development. Hailing from the rural parish of St. Mary in Jamaica, she deeply understands the aspirations of everyday Jamaicans and their strong desire for economic and social mobility. “Throughout her career – encompassing business, finance, public service, and international relations – she has consistently led initiatives that serve as benchmarks for others to follow. She is widely recognized as the founder of Paymaster (Jamaica) Limited, the Caribbean’s first multi-transaction bill payment system, which transformed the financial services landscape in the region. As Jamaica’s first female ambassador to the United States and the first to serve two terms, the newly-appointed Senator and Cabinet minister in the Jamaican Government, Marks has passionately advocated for economic growth and investment,” Grant explained. She adding that Marks’ business expertise and leadership have earned her numerous accolades, including an honorary Doctor of Laws from Northern Caribbean University. A distinguished alumna of the UWI, Senator Marks exemplifies the institution’s commitment to academic excellence by nurturing the talents of change agents, leaders, and innovators who will ultimately contribute to the productivity and prosperity of their community, country, and the Caribbean region. Besides her diplomatic and entrepreneurial efforts, Senator Marks has served on several prominent private and public sector boards of directors, including for The University of the West Indies (Mona School of Business), the National Health Fund (NHF), and Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI). Her deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education has driven her advocacy for initiatives that expand access to learning opportunities, especially for financially-disadvantaged yet ambitious students. This posture is fully aligned with the mission and vision of the AFUWI. The AFUWI Legacy Awards Gala 2025 will honour Senator Marks and her fellow recipients – William Mahfood, chairman of WISYNCO, The Half Moon Hotel, Dominican-American track and field athlete, Thea La Fond Gadson, Althea Brown, and Cedric Gayle, Esq. – in New York City. This annual event gathers distinguished leaders and education advocates from the Caribbean and the United States to raise funds for scholarships benefiting deserving students at The University of the West Indies (UWI). AFUWI HONOREES William Mahfood, chairman of the WISYNCO Group, who will receive the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Global Business Leadership and Philanthropy. Mahfood, who began his career as a warehouse supervisor, has played a pivotal role in shaping WISYNCO’s market reach and distribution strategies. Under his leadership, the company became the largest publicly listed entity on the Jamaica Stock Exchange. Additionally, the WISYNCO Group will receive the AFUWI Corporate Award for its commitment to corporate responsibility and business excellence. Cedric Gayle, Esq., who will receive the Pelican Award, a recognition given to outstanding University of the West Indies (UWI) alumni in the New York diaspora. A respected attorney and community leader, Gayle has been instrumental in strengthening alumni engagement through his role as a founding member of the UWI New York alumni chapter. Althea Brown, managing director, chief legal officer, and corporate secretary of LPL Financial, will be honoured with the Vice Chancellor’s Achievement Award for her contributions to legal and financial advisory services. A proud Jamaican, Brown’s leadership at LPL Financial Holdings Inc., which oversees nearly $1 trillion in assets, has solidified her reputation in the financial industry. Olympic gold medallist Thea LaFond Gadson, who will receive the Salute to Senator Audrey Marks to receive AFUWI Trailblazer Award William Mahfood, chairman of WISYNCO, Dominican-American track and field athlete, Thea La Fond Gadson among honourees BRONX, NY: THE ORGANIZATION for International Development (OID) will be focusing on the legacy of its former president, Dr Michelle Malcolm James, at its annual Spring Luncheon fundraiser, on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from noon to 5 pm, at the Greentree Country Club, New Rochelle, NY. Themed, ‘Our Legacy Lives On’, proceeds from the Luncheon fundraiser – the first of the organisation’s two marquee, charitable endeavours for the year – will be used for 2026 Missions. OID has procured a mobile unit outfitted with a registration/intake area, full-service mammography machine and an examination room to provide comprehensive breast, cervical and prostate cancer screenings using minimally invasive methods such as ultrasound devices, pap smears, and blood screenings to communities in the rural, remote areas of Jamaica. The mammogram and Pap smear test are the first steps in cancer screening for women and the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test is the first step for men. “Our 2025 focus is to continue concentrating on fundraising for the launch of the OID + NCU Jamaica Cancer Screening Project to Reduce the Rate of Breast, Cervical and Prostate Cancer in Jamaica in the memory of our beloved president Dr Michelle Malcolm-James, DNP, RN,”noted Dr Roy Streete, DDS, founder/director of OID. Three women will share the ‘legacy’ spotlight for their humanitarian and volunteer services, over the years. Members Rosemarie Rodriguez and Sharon Wynter, will be thanked for their many years of service and AnnMarie Grant, executive director of the American Foundation for the University of the West Indies (AFUWI), will be cited for her years of service to education. Established in 1990, OID has expanded services to countries beyond Jamaica to include, Haiti, Dominican Republic, St Vincent and the Grenadine Islands, St Lucia, North and South America, Nigeria, Ethiopia, India, Ghana, Zambia and South Africa and United States providing needed services in the areas of paediatrics, gynaecology, medicine, dentistry, ophthalmology, physical therapy and social services. OID Spring Luncheon to honour the legacy of former president The legacy lives on April 27
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT 5
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 6 Lester Hinds/Gleaner Writer HAVING WITNESSED firsthand the needs of children in homes run by the Jamaican Government across the island, Gary Williams made a pledge to help those children 30 years ago OUT OF his efforts was born Children of Jamaica Outreach (COJO) Incorporated, which has spent the intervening years bringing corporate sponsors and others together to provide assistance to state homes throughout the country. It all began for Williams in Islington, St Mary, where he was born. He moved to Kingston at a very early age and has little or no recollection of the town in which he was born. In Kingston he attended Holy Trinity High School and later St Georges College. On graduation, he worked in the travel industry. Having spent some time working with Alpha Boys’ Home he saw how the homes were run and the lack of resources going to them. He says that his volunteering at Alpha Boys’ Home gave him an insight into how children in state care were shortchanged. In 1988, he moved to the United States where he continued his career in the travel industry, working with British Airways. “I moved to the United States for a better life and for the opportunities that living in the United States offered,” he told The Gleaner. However, the lack of resources flowing to children in state care still weighed on him. He therefore started COJO Inc in 1995 with a commitment to invest in the future of children and support childcare institutions. “I like to do good and the opportunity came to me to give back to children in government care,”he explained. “COJO was founded to help those COJO honours eight at 30th anniversary gala Dr. Sandra L. Lindsay, vice president, Public Health Advocacy at Northwell Health receives the COJO Pioneer Award from then Jamaican Ambassador to the US Audrey Marks. This was among her final duties before demitting office to return to Jamaica where she was appointed to the Senate and then named Minister Without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation. Children of Jamaica Outreach (COJO) Founder Gary M. Williams presents the 2025 COJO Humanitarian Award to Dr. Patricia V. Smith, entrepreneur, healthcare pioneer and philanthropist at the 30th Anniversary Scholarship Gala & Awards in Long Island, New York. Emcee for the evening was Javaughn Keyes, corporate communications manager at Sagicor Group Jamaica. Williams to build on organisation’s 30-year mission of aiding Jamaica’s young state wards most in need,” he said. Over the years Williams has been able to bring together sponsors drawn from corporate America as well as well-established Jamaican-owned businesses, both in the Diaspora and in Jamaica, to provide assistance to homes across the island. He singled out American companies such as JetBlue Airlines, which has become a main sponsor of COJO, consistently helping the organisation in its work. Among those who have also assisted COJO in its work are GraceKennedy, JN Group, Sandals International, Caribbean Foods Delight, Tower Isle’s, the Jamaica Tourist Board, and Dennis Shipping. Williams said that he has been able to attract corporate sponsorship because his organisation is transparent in what it does and sponsors are kept abreast of its work through packages sent to them showing what has been done. “We have a track record with our corporate sponsors,” he said. In 2012, COJO introduced scholarships as part of its outreach. Since then, some US$300,000 in scholarships has been given to students in government care to attend institutions such as the University of Technology, Mico University College, Shortwood Teachers’ College and Northern Caribbean University. Williams said that, in 2024, 15 scholarships valued at US$55,000 were given to students. The year before, 14 scholarships valued at US$50,000 were awarded. Homes have also been provided with much-needed equipment such as stoves, washing machines and dryers as well as refrigerators. COJO has even built a library at the Glenhope Place of Safety. The latest COJO fundraising effort was held Saturday night at the Fox Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, Long Island, New York. Eight persons were honoured at the event, including Dr Sandra Lindsay, Dr Patricia Smith, David Shields, Andrew Morris, Lorna Hawthorne, Marcia Skyers-James and Maurice and Allison Russell. Lindsay was presented with the Pioneer Award, Hawthorne the Visionary Award and Skyers-James the Distinguished Service Award. Of the other awardees, Shields was presented with the Visionary Award, Morris was presented with the Corporate Service Award, Smith the Humanitarian Award and Maurice and Allison Russell were presented with the Philanthropy Award. editorial@gleanerjm.com Gary Williams (centre), founder and chairman of Children of Jamaica Outreach (COJO), with Audrey Marks (fourth left), Jamaica’s ambassador to the United States (US); Nick Perry (right), the former US ambassador to Jamaica; and honourees at COJO’s 3Oth anniversary Scholarship Gala and Awards held Saturday at the Fox Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, Long Island, New York. PHOTOS BY AJAMU
THE MONTHLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT 7
8 THIS NEWSPAPER fully understands that countries have sovereign control over national borders, and thus, their right to determine who and under what circumstances they allow foreigners to enter them. WE EXPECT, too, that states will share concerns with friendly countries, especially if the matters that cause unease could threaten their domestic security. Despite a number of actions by Donald Trump’s administration with potentially negative implications for their own interests, the countries that constitute the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) consider the United States to be a friendly neighbour and partner that would engage them in cordial discussion of any issue on which Washington needs clarity. That appears not to have been the case with respect to a list of 43 countries – including five CARICOM members – which emerged last week, against which the United States could enhance travel restrictions over security concerns. With respect to Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia, Washington’s reported concern is with their citizenship-by-investment schemes, which, apparently, it believes aren’t sufficiently robust to keep out criminals and terrorists. Presumably, they would be given 60 days to explain themselves and fix the perceived problems, or risk being lumped on one of the other lists in which receiving US travel visas would be made extremely difficult, or impossible. Antigua and Barbuda, which disputes the implicit characterisation of its citizenship-by-investment scheme as loose, has asked the US State Department for better particulars on its supposed “deficiencies”. Which is quite appropriate. COORDINATED STRATEGY However, as The Gleaner has previously insisted, this issue further highlights the need for a coordinated strategy by CARICOM for engaging the United States in the current dispensation. Indeed, while four CARICOM countries are now flagged for their citizenship-by-investment schemes, others with similar arrangements might also be targeted. For instance, Grenada operates a scheme not dissimilar to what exists in its partner states. In St Vincent and the Grenadines, the political opposition has promised to introduce one if it comes to office. While Barbados does not offer immediate citizenship, it has a programme that provides long-term residency, with the prospect of citizenship, for people who pay for the golden visa. Gang-related political instability in Haiti, ostensibly, may be the reason for the action against that country. Who is to say that the same argument cannot be used for other countries with high gang-related crime, even if it is not at the level, and does not have the destabilising impact as in Haiti? Citizenship/visa-by-investment schemes are not unique to the Caribbean. They exist in several countries, such as Portugal, where an investment of €280,000 entitles a foreigner to a golden visa, similar to that of Barbados. In Greece, the requirement was an investment of €250,000, until the recent increase to €500,000. In the United States, there is an EB-5 visa programme in which foreigners can get residency for investing around US$1 million. It attracted 8,000 in 2012. President Trump recently floated a so-called “gold card” to attract the world’s wealthiest people to America by paying US$5 million. PROVIDE LOOPHOLES Critics say that these schemes can allow for money laundering, provide loopholes to escape law enforcement in other countries, and for wealthy people to avoid paying taxes in the places where they make their money. Caribbean countries insist, even if there were early hiccups, that they are compliant with global regulations to prevent the issues that are likely to worry the Americans. In any event, Antigua and Barbuda said that it was committed to maintaining strong bilateral relations with the US and its financial regulations were aligned with the US Treasury Department’s sanctions policy. Citizenship applications were not accepted from countries on the US’s banned list, and applicants were rigorously vetted, including by INTERPOL. It makes little sense for regional countries, in these circumstances, to individually make their cases to Washington, each hoping for special dispensation from Uncle Sam. If he ever was an avuncular personality, much has shifted. Even as a united group, CARICOM’s voice is less than powerful. Yet the sum of the institution is still potentially greater than the product of its individual parts. The approach, therefore, has to be clear, structured, focused, and coordinated; like the response to the intention to blacklist countries that accept Cuban medical assistance. No to travel threat THE WEEKLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | EDITORIAL / NEWS Neil Armstrong/Gleaner Writer TORONTO: TO MARK International Women’s Day (IWD), the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) Women’s Committee held its 25th annual “Women Recognizing Women” celebration at which eleven women were honoured for their achievements. AMONG THE eight recognised for inspiring change in their communities were journalist and style influencer, Sophia Findlay, who freelances with The Gleaner, and Adaoma Patterson, a past president of the JCA and member of the advisory council for the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Medical School and the University’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Communities Committee. The others were educator Barbara McFarlane; Dagma Koyi, executive director of the non-profit organization, REST Centre; Lanre Tunji-Ajayi, founder of the Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario; Josette Drummond, an educator and entrepreneur; Dr. Beverly-Jean Daniel, an associate professor and director of the School of Child and Youth Care at Toronto Metropolitan University; community organizer Gwyneth Chapman. In addition, awards were presented to dedicated volunteers: Grace Golding, Andrine White, and Astrid Helena Hayden. “It is giving me a renewed confidence and commitment to continue the work, whether through ‘Sofi Style’ or my journalism, to be the storyteller that the community needs,” said Findlay who has been a journalist for over 30 years, starting at the groundbreaking Contrast newspaper in Toronto, and has worked at The Gleaner, Jamaica Observer, and in broadcast media. Patterson, who served as president of the JCA from 2016 to 2022 and is an active volunteer there, said she became a member almost 30 years ago. She was surprised that she was selected for a “Women Who Inspire Change” award. Dr. Daniel said being an award recipient is about remembering all the women who went before her. “All of those women who paved the pathway that made it possible for me to stand here and it is my sincerest hope that the work that I have done and will continue to do will also be a beacon for those younger generations who are coming after us.” After a 17-year teaching career, Drummond launched Polkadots Playland & Montessori Academy in 2016, an innovative indoor playground and private Montessori school. “It’s quite humbling to be honest. I’m a teacher, I have a school in Brampton that does work with children with special needs, and I always say when you’re in the social field you just keep your head down because it’s heart work so the recognitions and things like that don’t necessarily come. This a great honour.” White, who volunteers with international students at the JCA, said she did not realise how much she was doing until a colleague mentioned it. “When you’re doing it from your heart, from passion, then it comes naturally. It means a lot to me to know that I’m being honoured for the work that I do.” McFarlane is deeply passionate about education and community empowerment, particularly within the black community. As the founder of REST Centre in the Peel Region, Koyi has revolutionised support for black youth experiencing housing insecurity. Tunji-Ajayi is a respected leader and global patient advocate for the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) community and other hereditary blood disorders. She is a co-founder of the Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO) and the Global Action Network for Sickle Cell & Other Inherited Blood Disorders (GANSID). Chapman works tirelessly as a community organizer, leader and volunteer to mobilize the community, advocate for change and generate strategies for political action. Camille Hannays-King, IWD coordinator, said the honourees embody the resilience, leadership, and empowerment of International Women’s Day and the Women Who Inspire Change award. “Their contributions strengthen the spirit of our community.” The keynote speaker was Ginelle Skerritt, an award-winning senior executive and community change maker, who was the first black CEO of York Region Children’s Aid Society and regional director of UNICEF Ontario. Well-known storyteller and emcee Sandra Whiting was the host of the event. Eleven women honoured by the Jamaican Canadian Association Recipients of the Women Who Inspire Change award presented by the JCA Women’s Committee on Sunday to recognize International Women’s Day. From left; Adaoma Patterson, Lanre Tunji-Ajayi, Gwyneth Chapman, Dr. Beverly-Jean Daniel, Josette Drummond, Dagma Koyi, Sophia Findlay, and Barbara McFarlane. CONTRIBUTED moya.thomas@gleanerjm.com Moya Thomas anthony.smith@gleanerjm.com Anthony Smith - Chief Executive Officer The opinions on this page, except for The Editorial, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Gleaner. The Gleaner [ EDITORIAL ]
9 601 LEGAL NOTICES 601 LEGAL NOTICES 601 LEGAL NOTICES 601 LEGAL NOTICES 600 LEGAL 574 SALE LOTS RES. / COMM. / ISLAND WIDE 560 SALE HOUSES / APTS ST. CATHERINE 559 SALE HOUSE / APTS CORPORATE AREA 550 REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Grove Hill Maggotty St Elizabeth. 16 Acres 1 Four bedroom house and 1 two bedroom house. 2 Block and Steel Water Tank. $26 Mil. 876 924 2086/ Whatsapp 876 454 5092 Riverside Drive, Gordon Town, Saint Andrew Three Storey Home Needs refurbishing On large land Has river / stream at rear of sloping property $45M ono Phone 876 534 4273 Mon Fri 10:00am 12noon ONLY NO AGENTS PLEASE Green Acres, Saint Catherine Home 3 Family Each has its own entrance 3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom, kitchen etc.. 3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom, kitchen etc.. 2 Bedroom, 2 bathroom, kitchen etc.. Total 8 Bedrooms, 6 bathrooms JMD $105M or USD $675K NO AGENTS PLEASE Phone 876 862 0706 Sophia Findlay/Gleaner Writer TORONTO: PUCCINI’S POPULAR and beloved opera Madama Butterfly was impeccably brought to life by the Canadian Opera Company (COC) in a mesmerising performance during the grand winter opening season of the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto. Jamaica-born Al Ramsay, Toronto Dominion (TD) Group banker, vice president of 2SLGBTQ+ and Black Customer Segments, hosted an exclusive reception showcasing the awe-inspiring dress rehearsal of the production, creating an extraordinary experience for all in attendance. Ramsay is a member of the Canadian Opera Company and chair of the Community, Partnerships & Programmes Committee. Against the backdrop of a picturesque yet freezing Monday on January 20, guests mingled and indulged in delectable treats paired with exquisite wines in the opulent Henry N. R. Jackman Lounge of the venue. The captivating ambience was further enhanced by the phenomenal orchestra, led by conductor Keri-Lynn Wilson, adding a touch of enchantment to the evening. Special guests included Kurt Davis, the consul general of Jamaica in Toronto, accompanied by his elegant wife Suzanne Robinson Davis; Canadian musician Molly Johnson; media personality Brandon Gonez; Mitzie Hunter, head of the Canadian Women’s Federation; and politician Celina R. Caesar-Chavannes. The fusion of sophistication, cultural richness, and warm camaraderie rendered the evening truly unforgettable, offering a rare opportunity to witness the sad tale of the young Japanese geisha Cio-Cio San, who marries B.F. Pinkerton, an American naval lieutenant, in a ceremony she takes to heart, but he does not. “Three years after abandoning ‘Butterfly’, Pinkerton returns to Japan with his new wife and demands that Cio-Cio San give up her son to his American father. Realising that she has lost everything, Cio-Cio San commits suicide,” reads the programme, which also listed details of the cast and crew. The first performance of the production was in 1904 at Teatro alla Scala, Milan. BMO Bank of Montreal is sponsor for the 2024/25 season. ‘Madama Butterfly’ wows Michael Samuel as Sharpless, Naleya Sayavong as Sorrow and Eri Nakamura as CioCio San in the Canadian Opera Company’s production of ‘Madama Butterfly’, 2025. CONTRIBUTED From left: Consul General Kurt Davis, Brandon Gonez and Dr Suzanne Robinson Davis. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Al Ramsay, Mitzie Hunter and a guest. 15 August, 2024 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2567073 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 435 Folio: 86 Place: Gatacre formerly part of Lyndhurst Park Parish: St. Andrew Registered proprietor (s): John Harry James and Andrew James L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- 12 December, 2024 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2506919 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 1116 Folio: 716 Place: Beckford farm and Spencers Pen now called Waterloo Gardens Lot: 9 Parish: St. Catherine Registered proprietor(s): Mavis Morgan The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: Transfer 2506918 L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- 25 July, 2022 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2412557 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 1410 Folio: 728 Place: Point Hill Called Fairfield Parish: St. Catherine Registered proprietor(s): Noel Weir, Pearline Weir and Marrian Weir The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: Transfer 2412559 L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- LOST TITLE APPLICATION No.: 2601749 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 466 Folio: 82 Lot No: 123 Place: Barry and Lloyds Parish: St. Catherine Registered Proprietors: Melford Channer and Barbara Channer The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles 26 January, 2025 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2579951 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 400 Folio: 22 Place: Number 14 Rum Lane Parish: Kingston Registered proprietor (s): Kenneth Astor Joseph D’Oyen The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: Application to be Registered 2579950 on Transmission L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- 26 January, 2025 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2579953 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 1169 Folio: 804 Place: Numbers Seventeen & Nineteen Rosemary Lane Parish: Kingston Registered proprietor (s): Kenneth Astor Joseph D’Oyen The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: Application to be Registered 2579952 on Transmission L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- 26 January, 2025 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2579947 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that l intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 117 Folio: 24 Place: Number Eighteen Rum Lane Parish: Kingston Registered proprietor (s): Kenneth Astore Joseph D’Oyen The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: Application to be Registered 2579946 on Transmission L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- 26 January, 2025 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2579949 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 44 Folio: 94 Place: No. 79 Tower Street Parish: Kingston Registered proprietor (s): Kenneth D’Oyen The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: Application to be Registered 2579948 on Transmission L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- 20 February, 2025 LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO.: 2611580 OFFICE OF TITLES NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA) WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement. Volume: 1106 Folio: 868 Lot: 70 Place: Part of Waltham Farm Parish: St. Andrew Registered proprietor(s): Clifford Victor Uter and Phyllis Maud Uter The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA: Application to Note Death 2611575 Application to be Registered on Transmission 2611577 L. Dunbar Deputy Registrar of Titles ------------------------------------- THE WEEKLY GLEANER | MARCH 20 - APRIL 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | CLASSIFIEDS / NEWS
jamaica-gleaner.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUzNTI=