Caribbean News

Outstanding Jamaicans Honoured

Published

7 years ago

October 19, 2017

#Jamaica, October 19, 2017 – Kingston – Two hundred and fifty-seven outstanding Jamaicans who have made significant contributions to nation building, were formally recognized at the ceremony of Investiture and Presentation of National Honours and Awards, on Monday (October 16), at King’s House. Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, and his wife, Mrs. Juliet Holness, headed the list of dignitaries and other guests who attended the annual event to witness the awards being handed out by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen.

Heading the list of recipients this year was musical icon, the Hon. Neville O’Reilly Livingston, popularly known as “Bunny Wailer”, who was awarded the Order of Merit.

“It’s an honour to be awarded. I have been contributing over these years with Bob (Marley) and Peter (Tosh). It feels good to be recognised for the great things which happened for me in music,” he told JIS News at the ceremony.

Following his award, five persons – Mr. Vincent Francis, Mr. Phillip Gore, Mr. Anthony Hart, Professor Archibald McDonald and Ambassador Clifton Stone were presented with the Order of Jamaica.

Forty-two persons were awarded with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander [CD]. They were The Reverend Dr. Ronald Blair, Dr. Ellen Grizzle, Senior Superintendent Vance Carter, Mrs. Heather Cooke, Mrs. Laleta Davis-Mattis, Mr. Herrick Dear, Sister Mary Figueroa, Professor Fletcher, Mr. Ian Forbes, Dr. Marcia Forbes, Colonel (Rtd.) Samuel Francis, Mr. Christopher Gayle, Dr. Gladys Gordon-Veitch, Mr. Alexander Hamilton, Mr. Kevin Hendrickson, Mr. Paul Hoo, Mr. Clement ‘Jimmy’ Lawrence, Mr. John Lynch, Dr. Noel Lynch and The Hon. Mrs. Justice Marva McDonald-Bishop.

Others given the CD were Ambassador Vilma McNish, Major General Rocky Meade, Mr. Howard Mitchell, Professor Keith Morrison, Dr. Donald Phillibert, Dr. Fritz Pinnock, Mr. George Quallo, Mr. John Robinson, Mr. Robert Russell, Mr. Paul Scott, Mr. Lyttleton Shirley, Mr. Edward Shoucair, Mr. George Soutar, Mrs. Joy Spence, Hon. Ms. Justice Jennifer Straw, Hon. Mr. Justice Bryan Sykes, Dr. Cleo Taylor, Mr. Sylvester Tulloch, Dr. Kenneth Vaughn, Mr. Albert Webb, Senator Donald Wehby, Mr. Noel Whyte and Mr. Clifton Yap.

Dr. Marcia Forbes, co-owner and Executive Chairperson of Phase Three Productions Limited, who was awarded in this category for her sterling contribution to multimedia television production, public service and volunteerism, said she “felt fantastic”.

“I don’t work to get any recognition or award, but when you get it, it’s amazing, especially when you’re alive and young enough to appreciate it as I am. It’s really a good feeling. I thank all who have nominated me,” she told JIS News.

Sixty-six persons were awarded with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer [OD]. They were Mrs. Sonia Abrahams, Captain (Rtd.) Christopher Annamunthodo, Mr. Khaleel Azan, Mr. Carl Bradshaw, Mr. Patrick Brown, Mr. John Breese, Mr. Isbert Clarke, Mr. Robert Clarke, Mrs. Pearline Cooper Sharpe, The Right Reverend Harold Daniel, Mr. Alston Douglas, Mr. Michael Drakulich, Ms. Simone Edwards, Mr. Copeland Forbes, Mr. Alvin Francis, Mr. Ferdinand Gaynair, Mrs. Mabel Grandison, Mrs. Antonica Gunter Gayle, Mr. Courtney Barrington and Ms. Joyce Harris.

Also receiving the OD were Mr. George Ho Sang, Mr. Indru Khemlani, Mr. Ramesh Lakhwani, Mr. Leroy Lindsay, Ms. Eslyn Lynch, Mr. Carlos Malcolm, Dr. Donna McFarlane, The Reverend Cannon McIntyre, Mr. Clyde McKenzie, Professor Collie Miller, Mrs. Gloria Millwood, Mrs. Rosina Moder, Mr. Earl Moore, Mr. Kenneth Neale, Mrs. Delores O’Connor, Mr. Hugh Osborne, Mr. Paul Pennicook, Mr. Lloyd Pommells, Ms. Sandra Levy-Ramsay, Mr. Carl Rhoden, Mr. Gary Sadler, Ms. Hermine Salmon, Pastor Glen Samuels, Mrs. Methelina Scarlet-Jones, Mr. Richard Simpson, Dr. Iris Soutar, Mr. Lloyd Stanbury, Mr. Joseph Sterling, Ms. Stafanie Taylor, Dr. Ian Titus, Mrs. Maxine Walters, Mr. Theodore Whitmore, Mr. Joel Williams, Mr. Maurice Wilson, Mr. Dennis Wright, Ms. Joyce Young and Mrs. Margaret Steuart.

Mr. Ho Sang, a retired jockey, who was awarded the OD for his contribution to the horse racing industry in Jamaica, said he “feels great to have been awarded by his country”.

“I thank the people who nominated me for this award. I am so grateful to receive it while I am still alive to enjoy it,” he said in an interview with JIS News.

Seven Jamaicans who risked their lives to save others were awarded with the Badge of Honour for Gallantry [BH(G)] by the Governor-General. They were Mr. Howard Garcia, Ms. Anna Kay Martin, Mr. Ramone Peart, Mr. Jamwno Riley, Mr. Jermaine Riley, Ms. Davia Tucker and Mr. Tremayne Brown, who was recently added to the list for his act of bravery on September 10, after he jumped into a gully to save 12-year-old Renaldo Reynolds in Trench Town from being washed away.

Speaking with JIS News after collecting his award, Mr. Brown said he felt good about being publicly awarded. “It feels good. It feels really good,” Mr. Brown, who was overwhelmed, simply said.

Twenty-four persons were awarded with The Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service [BH(M)]. They were Dr. Winsome Christie, Ms. Opal Davis, Mr. Easton Daley, Mrs. Daphne Dennis, Mrs. Alice Downer, Mr. Baldwin Dulston, Mr. Clive Edwards, Ms. Quindell Ferguson, Mrs. Helen Gauron, Mrs. Melody Haughton-Adams, Mrs. Murleen Kelly Henry, The Reverend Uriah Lawrence, Mrs. Sonia Lee, Mrs. Hilda McAnuff, Mrs. Marjorie Monteith, Mrs. Bernice Moore, Mr. Barrington Parsons, Dr. Michelle Russell, Ms. Maudlyn Roach, Mrs. June Torey-Scott, Mrs. Constance Witter, Mr. Elphyn Wright, Father Marek Bzinkowski, Mrs. Diane Pollard and Mr. Peter Rose.

Some 37 persons were awarded with the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service [BH(L)]. They were Mrs. Elaine Barker, Mr. Hebron Barrett, Mrs. Elizabeth Brown-James, Mrs. Roseline Brown-Moore, Mrs. Eumeda Byfield, Mrs. Jacqueline Champagnie, Mr. Anthony Colquhoun, Mrs. Sandra Daley Peart, Mrs. Carolm Dyer-Archer, Ms. Paulette Green, Mr. Phillip Hutchinson, Mrs. Beverley Ingram, Mr. Winston Jackson, Ms. Grace Johns, Mrs. Millicent Kerridge, Mrs. Sybil Leslie, Mrs. Nellie Lewis, Mrs. Patricia Linton-Khanni, Mrs. Linda Maragh, Ms. Lois McGregor, Ms. Marlene McGregor, Mrs. Sylvia McKenzie, Dr. Stewart McKoy, Mr. Felix Mitchell, Mrs. Yvonne Mitchell, Mrs. Matilda Morgan, Mr. Michael Nicholson, Ms. Juliet O’Sullivan, Ms. Marjorie Parkin, Mrs. Evelyn Richards, Mrs. Paula Rouse-McFarlane and Mrs. Ivet Russell. Others were Ms. Yvette Smith, Ms. Yvonne Vassell, Ms. Leith Watson, Mr. Robert White and Mr. Howard Williams.

Mr. Brandon Freeman collected an award in this category on behalf of his grandfather, Mr. Horace Vickers Freeman, who died one month prior to the ceremony.

Speaking with JIS News, Brandon said it was a bittersweet feeling both sitting in the seat and collecting the award on behalf of his grandfather.

“My grandfather was a great man and I’m glad I was able to collect what he rightfully earned. It’s sad that he was not here today to receive it himself, but I believe his legacy has been passed on through my generation, and I hope that one day I’ll be able to collect my own reward for my own legacy,” he said.

Two persons from the Department of Correctional Services were awarded with the Medal of Honour for Gallantry. They were Corporal Vincent Allen for rendering quick and alert assistance to Corporal Ivey who requested emergency medical assistance while suffering a heart attack; and Corporal Jermaine Stewart for demonstrating the act of bravery, courage and a keen sense of alertness to have discharged his firearm at two armed robbers who boarded the Department’s vehicle and attempted to rob staff members on Friday, November 25, 2016.

In the category of the Medal of Honour for Meritorious Service, 12 persons from the Jamaica Defence Force were awarded, 24 from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, 27 from the Department of Correctional Services and 11 from the Jamaica Fire Brigade.

Release: JIS

Caribbean News

Earth Day 2024: Planet vs Plastics – A Call to Action for Reducing Plastic Waste

Published

13 hours ago

April 18, 2024

Shanieka

As Earth Day approaches on April 22nd, the DECR is rallying the community to join the global movement towards reducing plastic waste and safeguarding our planet’s future.

Plastic pollution remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, threatening the health of our oceans, wildlife, and ecosystems. With an estimated 8 million tons of plastic entering our oceans every year, the need for action has never been more urgent.

This Earth Day, the DECR urges you to take meaningful steps towards reducing plastic consumption and waste. From single-use plastics like straws and bags to microplastics that infiltrate our ocean and food chain, every piece of plastic avoided makes a difference.

By embracing reusable alternatives, recycling responsibly, and advocating for policies that prioritize sustainability, we can all play a role in mitigating the plastic crisis. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations.

Join us this Earth Day in committing to reduce plastic waste and protect our precious environment. Together, we can make a difference.

Tune into the DECR’s social media by following us on Instagram @DECR_TCI or on Facebook at DECR Environmental Education & Outreach Group.

Caribbean News

Senior Teacher Endorses Robot to Assist in Educating Infant and Primary School Students

Published

15 hours ago

April 18, 2024

Shanieka

KINGSTON, April 17 (JIS):

Senior Teacher at Alpha Infant School, Sabrina Raymond-Hunter, has endorsed the ‘ICHEETAH’ robot, a smart educational AI-powered tool that will advance the way young children learn and interact with technology.

The robot, developed by CHEETAH Toys and More, LLC, is designed to engage and educate children at the infant and early-primary levels of education in a fun and interactive manner, supporting their cognitive development and preparing them for future academic success.

Speaking at a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank on April 16, Mrs. Raymond-Hunter recognised the potential of this cutting-edge technology and its ability to enhance the learning experience for young children.

“I am really excited about this product. I was able to get this into my classroom of 23 students and they are super excited about this. We have had it for three weeks and this is a game changer,” she said.

The Senior Teacher, who also serves as the school’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Designate, added that the students’ learning has been enhanced since incorporating the technology into her teaching.

“It has enhanced it a lot because you know the boys, especially, once they are happy and find something that is fun, they will want to do it. My boys started off a little bit rocky, but since they got this robot, they are spelling, identifying words and reading,” she noted.

Having yielded positive results from utilising the technology, Mrs. Raymond-Hunter is encouraging other schools who are not yet on board to do so.

“I’m encouraging all the other schools to get on board, and if for any reason you need a demonstration, come to Alpha. I’ll show you exactly how we use it to get our students on board and on level with everyone else. Learning should be fun, and with iCHEETAH it definitely is,” she shared.

The robot is outfitted with several interactive features, including voice recognition, games, and educational content, making learning engaging and exciting for young learners.

CONTACT: SHERIKA HALL

Caribbean News

AN EASTERN CARIBBEAN GEM IS UNEARTHED

Published

1 day ago

April 18, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

~SANDALS® RESORTS OPENS ITS 18^TH RESORT IN SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES~

April 17, 2024, Montego Bay, Jamaica – In an intimate ribbon cutting ceremony commemorating Sandals Resorts’ entry into the largely undiscovered destination of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the only Caribbean born superbrand welcomed its first guests to a nature-forward experience brimming with island inspiration and stirring ‘Sandals Firsts’.

Witnessed by government officials, Sandals executives, guests and resort team members, an emerald green ribbon, representative of the island’s flag and lush surroundings, was cut signaling the official opening of Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International Adam Stewart, spoke on what the opening of the hotel chain’s 18^th resort meant for the brand, the island and the Caribbean at large. “This is a multi-generational act in the making that began with my extraordinary father Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart and Prime Minister Gonsalves many years ago. They flirted heavily about flying the Vincy flag not only here but in all the other islands across the Caribbean that Sandals has its operations. Little did we know that 43 years later the Sandals brand would grow from one 99-room hotel in Montego Bay to a top 500 brand known on the world stage as a super brand. The only Caribbean born commercial super brand known across the United States, Europe and Canada with over 84% brand penetration and recognition,” he shared.

He expounded further on what he dubbed the Sandals Effect, a confluence of things that happen when Sandals comes to town. “First and foremost, we market the destination, both St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The landscape that makes up this incredible archipelago will benefit. Directly and indirectly for linkages, tour operators, taxi operators, restaurateurs, musicians, farmers, fishers, entrepreneurs, hardware store operators, the entire ecosystem and connectivity we plan to make sure that the entire world knows.”

With Sandals’ expansion to the island, airlift has increased exponentially with more availability on the horizon. According to Adam Stewart, numerous airlines have adjusted their schedules in anticipation for the demand. “American Airlines used to fly twice per week to and from the Argyle Airport, since April the airline has increase to four times per week and is expected to have daily flights by the end of 2024. Air Canada and Virgin have increased their airlift with JetBlue and United Airlines now flying to the island for the first time. Nationals and visitors will have the opportunity to fly more conveniently and we will continue to grow. ,” expressed Stewart.

The resort, in May 2024, is expected to host some 300 top travel advisors from around the world, the largest contingent of international travel professionals to ever visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Dr. The Honourable, Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, in his main address added further credence to the impact Sandals has on his country and the CARICOM community. “During COVID, unemployment went up, there was a decline in economic activity in the region. At the time we also had volcanic eruptions, Sandals came to us with a proposal to recruit Vincentians and send them to their resorts across the Caribbean to be trained. We had to evacuate 20,000 persons with some in shelters for four to six months. Along came a friend in Sandals who said they could ease some of the pressure providing opportunities for 500 people and these little things talk to me about partnership. This might have been small for Sandals but it was a huge thing for us in the condition in which we found ourselves and I want to thank Sandals and Adam.”

“It is an understatement really to call Sandals a brand. It has become an existential part of our Caribbean civilization. This civilization is tailor-made for tourism and Butch Stewart has helped to shape this aspect of the material to help sustain us. I think that when the history of the 20^th into the 21^st century is written, there would be a towering place for this legend,” The Hon. Gonsalves continued.

In honour of the late Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, Prime Gonsalves in opining that the relationship he enjoyed with the late founder made him “one of us” shared a remarkable plan to celebrate his memory and contributions to tourism and economic development in the region. “The government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines had indicated to Sandals that we will build the road coming to the entrance of the hotel. Having built it, we will call it the Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart Boulevard,” the Prime Minister announced proudly to stirring applause from the audience.

Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines offers 301 rooms and suites across 50 lush-laden acres, authentically embracing its Saint Vincent location with an experience that is as thoughtful as it is meticulously local.