The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

Welcome to our 2 Quarter Newsletter, Dowdie Family! I hope your 2012 have been fantastic, thus far. It is amazing to see how quickly the time is going. I can’t believe that one quarter of 2012 is already over. I feel as if my year began with me walking under an umbrella of clouds, but the sun is finally shining and I am looking forward to a year filled with laughter, love, and great family experiences. nd

After the Christmas Holiday, I returned to work on a high note due to a remark-able eight-day road trip to/from Florida with my mother and four-year-old niece. On my first day back to work, I found a colleague of mine (Olga) who was in noticeably poor health. During the first week back in the office, her dedication brought her to work everyday, however, within the first hour each day, her symptoms made her unable to communicate let alone work. At the end of the first week, we called the EMT and a colleague and I accompanied Olga to the hospital, where we stayed for a few hours.

During this time, we quickly grew a bond and Olga shared secrets about her life with us. I didn’t know Olga that well, because she wasn’t with the company for a long time. On a daily basis, we exchanged pleasantries and never had a lengthy conversation. I kept in touch with Olga via text messaging and was able to see her once more before she passed away, on January 25 th . Olga was 30 years old. At her memorial, Olga’s mother disclosed that her

daughter had issues trusting people and was quite secretive. Hearing those words made me feel a sense of pride, as I recalled the day when the EMTs attempted to attend to Olga, she was quite defiant and the frail young lady pushed the oxygen mask away, when they tried to put it on. I went to calm her down and Olga voiced that she trusted only me. A colleague standing nearby told me I had to accompany Olga to the hospital.

It seemed I was the only one who was able to get Olga to calm down in order for the paramedics to do their job. At her memorial, a family friend mentioned that a number of months before her death, Olga asked her to teach her how to pray in English, because she only knew Russian prayers. Moments like this make me realize how short life is and I embrace each day as if it were my last.

I have been asked at work why I am always so happy and I responded, why not? A simple hello and smile can help to uplift people who are otherwise down.

laid to rest, I learned that a dear cousin passed away in Jamaica. Eunice Matilda “Vivel” Roache, daughter of Muriel (Dowdie) Roach, died on February 3rd and we welcomed her great grandniece into the world on February 19th. Family members from the US, UK and Canada traveled to Jamaica to celebrate the life of our dear, Vivel.

As many of you may or may not know, Jamaica is celebrating 50 years of independence this year and I found it fitting to use this issue to share some facts that I know will be appreciated by most. My hope is that the elders will reflect on that great day in Jamaica’s history; and that the younger generation will embrace learning about their cultural backgrounds a nd is proud of their heritage. Highlighted in this issue are some historical facts about Jamaica, the Leaders since 1962, information regarding the Jamaican Flag and National Anthem.

It is said that with each death, there is a birth. The day before my Russian friend was

Our Family Tree The count for the Dowdie descendants on the family tree is now 898…and still growing. My day job as a Finance Director has kept me quite busy during the first quarter of this year, and I haven’t been able to focus on the family tree as much as I would like to. I have been able to fill in some blanks for families where I had missing information and as I get caught up and fill-in the missing blanks, our tree continues to grow.

The below reflects the names of nine of Peter Dowdie’s offspring. Of whom I have either connected with or have information for, the children amounts to 34 (at the present moment).

The family tree is massive, I am unable to share the full family tree in this medium; however, I will do my best to share what I am able to in future issues. I am still amazed at the size of our family tree and decided to take it a step further and counted the offspring of Peter Dowdie’s children.

Following is the breakdown of the offspring for those reflected in the above diagram: Gifford Dowdie Mary Ursula Dowdie Maude Dowdie Peter Vecas Dowdie

2 29 7 36

Sanford Dowdie 93 William Arthur "Cameron" Dowdie 55 David "Bignal" Dowdie 650 Mary Adela "Dowdie" Dowdie 15

My great grandfather’s (David “Bignal” Dowdie) brood dominates the tree with 650, and it continues to grow every year.

1

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

On my road trip to Florida, over the Christmas holiday, I was able to meet more “new” Dowdie cousins. Christmas Eve night, mom and I visited the family of Sherlian Dowdie, daughter of Claudius Isaiah Dowdie (great granddaughter of William Arthur Dowdie), in Orlando, Florida. I first became acquainted with Sherlian in October 2011, when I received a friend request on Facebook from Sherlian and her daughter Leonie Dowdie.

On the night of October 30th, Leonie and I sent messages through Facebook to each other until well after midnight. In the messages, I learned that her great grandfather was Jeffrey Dowdie and that her grandfather, Claudius, was born in St. Elizabeth. Her great grandmother, Martha Dowdie, was living at Dumfries Crescent in St. Thomas. Jeffrey had three brothers and a sister. As we continued with our messaging (through Facebook), I learned that one of the brothers (Sylvester Dowdie) died in 1980. At that moment, my interest was peaked when I learned that Sylvester was a driver who used to deliver white rum throughout the parishes. Immediately, I became wide eyed with excitement of not only being able to update the family tree, but with the possibility of making a family connection. I was excited beyond imagination and after midnight, I asked for a telephone Left to right: Lorraine Dowdie, Sherlian Dowdie, Leonie number so that we could continue our conversation, live. Leonie shared Sherlian’s Dowdie, Jordan Springer, Jessica Springer, Leon number with me, but I decided to contain myself and get to bed, since I had to be up Wedderburn, Kamal Wedderburn, Kevin Caudle, Jr. & early for work the next morning. It goes without saying that Sherlian and I were on the Antonia phone for hours, the following evening. I was able to introduce Sherlian to Paulette (Dowdie), whom I introduced to YOU in the previous issue. Paulette’s father was the driver, Sylvester. She was age 12 when her father died and never had an opportunity to become acquainted with her Dowdie family, until now. Like most other Dowdie’s that I have met along this journey, Sherlian was unaware of any other Dowdies, with the exception of the ones in her family.

During my visit, I met Sherlian’s children, Leon and Leonie her grandchildren, Kamal Wedderburn and Kevin Caudle, Jr. I also had the pleasure of meeting Sherlian’s sister Lorraine who recently migrated from England with her son Jordan and daughter Jessica. During my short visit, I sipped on peppermint tea while looking at Sherlian’s family photos.

Due to limited time, I was unable to meet Sherlian’s brothers, Peter Dowdie and Raphael Dowdie, who live in close proximity to where I stayed in Palm Bay, Florida.

Filling-in the Gaps In addition to the Registrar General Department, I have had tremendous success with my genealogical search using resources provided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I began using their website, https://www.familysearch.org/, in 2009, and have also visited their local family center, where I was able to order and view microfilms. I really cannot explain to you how excited it makes me feel, when I find birth certificates of ancestors to validate the information on the family tree.

One of my most exciting find was the birth certificate of Lewis Dowdie (son of David “Bignal” Dowdie).

By using the family search website, I was also able to locate baptism information for the following Dowdies who were baptized in St. Elizabeth: • Sarah Dowdie: 10 Oct 1856 • Louisa Dowdie: 18 Apr 1851 • Esther E. Dowdie: 02 July 1862 • David Dowdie: 18 Apr 1851 • Letitia Dowdie: 28 Nov 1856 Please let me know if any of these names are familiar to you.

2

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

Jamaica 2012 Highlights On February 3rd, I received a call late in the evening, informing me that a dear cousin, in Jamaica, passed away. It was very sad news and I found it difficult to focus on work, as the news settled in my broken heart. Eunice Matilda "Vivel" Roach, the daughter of Muriel (Dowdie) Roach was affectionately known as Vivel or Aunt V. To me, Auntie V was an unsung hero and I don’t think she knew how much the family and the community appreciated her. Over the course of the weekend, we visited family and friends in the neighborhood and the stories were pretty much the same about Aunt V. She was dependable and took time to visit the elders who were sick and shut in. It was clear that her presence would be missed in Niagara, St. James, Jamaica.

Family and friends traveled from England, US, and Canada to celebrate the life of Aunt V. It seemed surreal, as it was almost two years to the date that we traveled to Jamaica to celebrate the life of Aunt Muriel, who died at the blessed age of 102. As if by fate, Aunt V was buried on the same date (February 24th) as her mother, back in 2010.

Vivel’s first cousin, Ephraim Schofield Dowdie, delivered the eulogy. In the eulogy, Ephraim stated that Vivel had a child who died at a very young age and that although she didn’t have any children of her own, Vivel “mothered” many nieces, nephews, cousins and neighborhood children. The memorable service was celebrated by Reverend Winston Blake and included: tributes from Olga Mitchell (niece) and John Dowdie, Sr. (cousin) and solos by Claudette Hazle (friend), Cornellia Dowdie (cousin) and Phylene Wilson (friend).

Photos left to right (from top: Barry Legister, Lawrence Bernard, Dassy Herbert, Wentworth Smith, Dalton Roache, Ephraim Dowdie, Eulplyn Dowdie, Alton Sawyers, Hope Bernard, Elfreda Rhoden, Una Beswick, Claudette Hazle, Ephraim Dowdie, Raniese Smith, Delroy Smith, Ephraim Dowdie, Olga Mitchell, Mildred Brooks, Stafford Roache, John Dowdie, Gifford Roache, Joan Cardoza, Hazel Sawyers, Antonia “Ann” Allen, Barry Legister, Antonia “Ann” Allen, Mildred Brooks, Una Beswick, Mildred Brooks, Antonia “Ann” Allen, Tamika Dowdie, Dalton Roache, Dassy Herbert, Gifford Roache

3

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2 The funeral was well attended by family and friends who traveled from abroad and all parts of the island. Cousin Eulplyn (from Black River, St. Elizabeth) came to pay respects to his first cousin whom he met when he traveled to Niagara with his father (Lewis Dowdie), as a youth. Wentworth Smith and Barry Legister (sons of Mildred Dowdie (the first child of David "Bignal" Dowdie, based on my findings) were also in attendance.

April, 2012 was built in order to cross the now stream. Mom bravely crossed the wobbly bridge first and I volunteered to go second. Thinking back, if I went last, I might have backed out of this expedition. When I first stepped onto the “bridge”, I was scared out of my mind, not only am I afraid of heights, I cannot swim. Oddly enough, neither of those were the reason for my apprehension. When I looked below and saw the big stones that my delicate body would have hit, I said a silent prayer and decided to crawl across Raniese and I shared some nostalgic moments on my hands and knees. Raniese was a soldier Before leaving Niagara, Cousin Barry extended as we walked the on the uneven, stone laden and decided to walk swiftly across. As soon as paths that we used to trod as youths. Mom, an invitation for a visit to his home in Santa we made it across, I began to fret about the Raniese and I walked through Swine Lane and Cruz. On Saturday, Cousin Barry and his wife return trip. God smiled on us and made it (Patricia) prepared a delicious meal of fried fish, crossed what once used to be a wide river. A rice, yellow yam, garden salad and cabbage and make shift bridge (made of three bamboo poles possible for us to have someone drive us back and a number of uneven planks of wood boards) down the hill. carrot.

I always find it a blessing and a pleasure to be able to sit and listen to the stories of the elders and this occasion was no different. It is fascinating to learn about their younger days and compare to mine. Being back in country for an extended weekend was great as it brought back memories of days gone by. It's always fun to pile up on a bed with family, tell jokes and fall off to sleep in the wee hours of the morning.

Antonia “Ann” Allen, Raniese Smith, John Dowdie, Sr., Dassy Herbert, Inez Nesbitt, Dassy Herbert, John Dowdie, Cynthia Coke, Antonia “Ann” Allen, Ryan Coke, Angella Roache, Una Beswick, Noreen “Jean” Roache, Ephraim Dowdie, Patricia Legister, Fiona, Ann, Dassy Herbert, Barry Legister, Zaire, John Dowdie, Sr., Olga Mitchells, Dalton Roache, Rhona Ellis, Una Beswick, Antonia “Ann” Allen, Mildred Brooks, Gifford Roache, Ephraim Dowdie, Raniese Smith, Noreen “Jean” Roache, Dassy Herbert

4

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

Family Reunion As mentioned in the previous issue, our next Dowdie Family Reunion will be in the summer of 2013. I was able to research the 2012/2013, school calendar for Canada, Jamaica, UK and the US, and I believe that July should work for all who are interested. Most of the 2011 reunion attendees agreed that the long weekend worked perfectly, so please mark your calendar for Wednesday, July 24th (arrivals) through Sunday, July 28th (check out). Feel free to come early and/or stay late and make it your summer holiday.

Family members who were unable to attend our first reunion are excited, and so am I. The search is on for a hotel (in Florida) that will facilitate our needs, and we hope to be able to make a decision within the coming month. It isn’t too early for you to begin to prepare for our next Dowdie Affair, though.

Money Matters We are looking for volunteers to take on different planning tasks and have the following committees: Communication Registration/Welcoming Set-up/Decorating Food Service Photography/Recording Adult’s recreation Young adult’s recreation Children’s recreation Clean-up

Reunion Registration & Fees: We are trying to be as creative as possible and looking for ways to contain costs while making it a fun and exciting event.

As everyone knows, there are costs associated with putting together such an event…from event meals, to t-shirts (logo, design, printing, etc.), transportation costs, etc. With that in mind, $TART $AVING! We are in the process of working out the costs for all the events and will have the registration and costs published out to you shortly.

Don’t let that stop you. If you $TART $AVING and making your payments early, it will be a lot easier for you financially and reduces the stress for all of us in the long run.

For those interested in helping, please send your request to dowdiefamilyreunion@gmail.com. Don’t forget to indicate your area of interest.

How You Can Help?

The Reunion Planning Committee will use the feedback from the 2011 reunion surveys received as a guide, when we begin to plan the next reunion. As with the first reunion, we will share details with you when they are available. If you have any comments, questions or suggestions, please feel free to share them by emailing dowdiefamilyreunion@gmail.com.

Mark your calendar, plan your time off, and share the news with family members!

2012 Jamaica Travel Plans Plans for the 2012 Family Trip to Jamaica are underway. Our Family Affair will be held on July 22nd, in Mountainside, St. Elizabeth, where we will enjoy fellowship with family and friends, eat good food and have lots of fun.

Due to the fact that Jamaica is celebrating her independence this year, it is expected that lots of families will be returning home. As such, it is advisable that you make your travel arrangements as soon as you are able to.

At the present moment, our group travel dates will be July 21st through July 30th (give or take a day), and the hotel of choice is Iberostar Rose Hall Beach http://www.iberostar.com/EN/Montego-Bay-hotels/Iberostar-Rose-Hall-Beach.html. As previously mentioned, daily excursions will be planned to various parts of the island. I have secured transportation that will be available for our excursions.

For those who are interested in begin included in the 2012 Jamaica travel plans, please contact Antonia (Ann) via email dowdiefamilyreunion@gmail.com or call 1-917-226-1069.

5

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

JAMAICA Land I Love the same for the younger generation. I migrated to the U.S. at a young age and therefore I was not able to learn a lot about Jamaica’s rich history in school. I was taught Jamaica’s National Anthem when I attended Niagara All Aged School (Niagara, St. James), and the anthem is heard when certain radio/television programs sign off. The National Anthem is also played at the beginning of public gatherings and official functions. While I was researching I came across someone’s recollection of the television experience, in Jamaica and he said, “We had one channel, one station, JBC TV signed on at around 4:30pm, if we were lucky, because many a times we sat in front of the TV at the appointed time and watch the test pattern until 6 or 7PM”. I’m sure the youths of today will get a kick out of learning that Jamaica once only had one channel.

I have always loved my homeland, Jamaica, and with each visit I find that my love for the island is renewed and my appreciation for my heritage grows. Jamaica is known for its beaches, great food and beautiful people, however, there is more to the remarkable island such as breathtaking views, remarkable sunsets, warm turquoise waters, and an almost always “irie” atmosphere. On the other hand, there are also hills, gullies and some bad roads where you literally have to stop the car and allow it to rock and roll over the potholes.

Oftentimes I think of how well built the undercarriages of the cars are as I don’t see any strewn along the roadway. I believe some of the best drivers come from Jamaica, because a certain level of skill is required in order to maneuver some of the country roads.

With Jamaica celebrating 50 years of Independence this year, I did some research that I know will be appreciated by the elders and hope

A Brief History of Jamaica Christopher Columbus claimed Jamaica for Spain after landing there in 1494 and his probable landing point was Dry Harbour, now called Discovery Bay. There is some debate as to whether he landed in St. Ann's Bay or in Discovery Bay. St. Ann's Bay was the "Saint Gloria" of Columbus who first sighted Jamaica at this point. One mile west of St. Ann's Bay is the site of the first Spanish settlement on the island, island, Sevilla, which was established in 1509 and abandoned around 1524 because it was deemed unhealthy. The capital was moved to Spanish Town, then called "St. Jago de la Vega", around 1534 and is located in present day St. Catherine.

When the English captured Jamaica in 1655 the Spanish colonists fled after freeing their slaves. The slaves fled into the mountains, joining those who had previously escaped from the Spanish to live with the Taínos. These runaway slaves, who became known as the Jamaican Maroons, fought the British during the 18th century. The name is still used today for their modern descendants. During the long years of slavery, Maroons established free communities in the mountainous interior of Jamaica, maintaining their freedom and independence for generations.

Once a Spanish possession known as Santiago, in 1655 it became an English, and later a British, colony, known as "Jamaica". It achieved full independence on August 6, 1962. With 2.8 million people, it is the third most populous Anglophone country in the Americas, after the United States and Canada. It remains a Commonwealth realm in concert with the Monarchy of Jamaica holding ultimate executive power, where Queen Elizabeth II is the current head of state and Queen of Jamaica. Kingston is the country's largest city and the capital.

Birth of a Nation Just before midnight on August 5, 1962, the British Union Jack was lowered and the Jamaican flag raised for the first time, marking Jamaica's independence and the dawn of a new era.

The Independence celebrations began in earnest immediately following the raising of Jamaica's flag at the National Stadium at midnight August 5, 1962. The skies above Kingston and major town-ships were lit up with giant fireworks displays. Bonfires blazed on hills and mountaintops across the countryside. Jamaica was greeting its Independence with a spontaneous outpouring of joy and pride.

In February 1962, a new Constitution was approved by the Legislature and the Premier Norman Manley called General Elections.

Alexander Bustamante was elected in April and became the first Prime Minister of Jamaica. On August 6, 1962, Jamaica became an Independent Nation and a member of the British Commonwealth.

Ambassadors overseas who represent the country. They sign treaties on behalf of Jamaica and become members of various international organisations. This is important, as it gives Jamaica equal rights on various issues relating to international trade, policies and treaties.

Jamaica becoming an Independent Nation now meant that Britain, no longer controlled the affairs of the country. It was now the responsibility of the newly elected Prime Minister and the locally elected Cabinet.

Every year on August 6, (previously first Monday in August), Jamaicans celebrate the removal of our dependence on Britain, to control specific functions of the country. At this time we also honour all those persons who were responsible for the transfer of power.

Independence also meant that a Constitution, symbols, emblems, an army, Jamaican currency and passports had to be developed for the country.

As an Independent Nation, Jamaica assigns

In October, during National Heritage Week (third Monday in October), we also honour our six National Heroes and one Heroine, in recognition of their contribution to the birth of our nation.

6

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

LEADERS SINCE 1962

The Right Excellent Norman Washington Manley, M.M., Q.C., B.C.L., LLD (Hon.) First And Only Premier: July 1959 – July 1962 National Hero (1969)

The Right Excellent Sir William Alexander Bustamante, G.B.E., LL.D (Hon.) First Prime Minister: Aug. 6, 1962–Feb. 27, 1967 National Hero (1969)

Legacy Shares with cousin Alexander Bustamante, the honour of being one of the two ‘Founding Fathers’ of Jamaica’s Independence, attained peacefully, August 6, 1962.

Legacy Shares with cousin Norman Washington Manley, the honour of being one of the two ‘Founding Fathers’ of Jamaica’s Independence, attained peacefully, August 6, 1962.

Norman Manley was born on July 4, 1893, at Roxborough in Manchester. His father, Thomas Albert Samuel Manley, was a planter and produce dealer from Porus and his mother Margaret Ann (nee Shearer), a small pen keeper from Blenheim in Hanover. He was one of four children.

Sir Alexander Bustamante was born on February 24, 1884, the son of Robert Constantine Clarke, an Irish planter and Mary Clarke (nee Wilson) a Jamaican of mixed blood. He was named William Alexander Clarke, but later changed his name in 1944 to William Alexander Bustamante. He was the second of five children of the Clarke family. He had three sisters, Louise, Iris and Maude and a younger brother, Herbert. He also had two elder sisters, Ida and Daisy Clarke, by a previous marriage of his father. His grandmother Elsie Clarke-Shearer was also the grandmother of Bustamante’s contemporary and fellow National Hero, Norman Washington Manley.

Norman Manley was registered at Guanaboa Vale Elementary School at eight years old. He excelled in the classroom and began his secondary education at Wolmer’s Boys’ School in Kingston for a year. However, the following year he drew nearer home and attended Beckford and Smith’s in Spanish Town.

Later on, he won an Open Scholarship to Jamaica College where his gift for athletics found full expression. After leaving school he taught at Jamaica College, Hope Farm School until he received news that he had won the Rhodes Scholarship.

He read Law at Jesus College Oxford where his studies were interrupted by World War I. In 1919 he resumed his studies at Oxford University, gained First Class Honours and won the Lee Prizeman (Essay) Award at Gray’s Inn before being called to the Bar in 1921. In that same year he married his cousin Edna Swithenbank.

For thirty years, beginning in 1905, the restless Bustamante traveled extensively in the hemisphere particularly to Cuba, Panama, and the United States trying his hand at a variety of occupations including security work, dairy farming, transportation and pen keeping. It is believed that Bustamante made a considerable amount of money speculating on the Wall Street stock market. Back in Jamaica in the midthirties his money-lending business prospered, but while it gave him a livelihood it also opened his eyes to the appalling plight of the poor.

Bustamante began participating in trade union activities before 1938 and developed a public reputation as a spokesman of the downtrodden. The violent labour disturbances during 1938 and his attempts to mediate and bring about a reduction in tension between the parties resulted in Bustamante being projected as the country’s “Labour Leader”. The authorities viewed him as a troublemaker and this resulted in his detention in 1938 and again in 1940.

Almost simultaneously with the beginning of his work with the Jamaica Welfare Ltd., Manley became deeply involved in the economic and political upheaval of the 1930’s. He was involved in union activities, which led to the establishment of the Trade Union Congress (TUC). As soon as the first period of turmoil was over, Manley went various parts of the island, recruiting persons to come to Kingston to take part in the formation of a political party.

On September 18, 1938 the People’s National Party was launched at a huge meeting at the Ward Theatre. The formation of this party was indeed the beginning of the national movement for self-government.

Six years later, in 1944, the first election under Adult Suffrage. The People’s National Party was largely responsible for paving the way towards the establishment of the new constitution, which gave all Jamaicans the right to vote. The party was, however, defeated at the polls that year but won in 1955.

The Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) was formed in 1939 and over the next few years Bustamante displayed charisma in his ability to gain significant benefits for the workers he represented. In the latter part of 1943 Bustamante followed the example set by Manley and used the membership of the BITU to build a political party. Bustamante’s success in negotiating substantial gains for large groups of workers fuelled further support for the Jamaica Labour Party and when the elections of December 1944 were held the party won with a landslide victory. Later in 1962 when Jamaica became independent Bustamante was named the new nation’s first Prime Minister. One month later he married his private secretary, Miss Gladys Longbridge.

During his years of administration Manley placed great emphasis on agriculture, education and industry. In 1959, the PNP achieved one of its primary goals, that of self-government. The Jamaican Government now became responsible for the internal affairs of the country, and Manley, the former Chief Minister was from then on addressed as Premier.

Mr. Manley had suffered a series of heart attacks dating from 1953, and he was forced into early retirement in 1969 due to ill health. His last public appearance was made in July 1969 when he received the JSA Gold Medal for distinguished service to Jamaican agriculture. He became ill on Monday September 1, 1969, fell into a coma and died the following afternoon. He was 77 years old.

Two years after taking office Bustamante, then 80 years old, became ill. He never returned to active involvement in the affairs of state. He officially retired in 1967 and died on August 6, 1977 at the age of 93 years.

7

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

The Most Hon. Hugh Lawson Shearer, ON, OJ Third Prime Minister May 18, 1923 – July 05, 2004

The Hon. Sir Donald Sangster, Knight Commander of the Victorian Order (KCVO) Second Prime Minister Feb. 22, 1967 – April 11, 1967

Legacy His term as Prime Minister was a prosperous one for Jamaica, with three new alumina refineries were built, along with three large tourist resorts. These six buildings formed the basis of Jamaica's mining and tourism industries, the two biggest earners for the country.

Legacy Great social servant and Good steward of financial resources. He was a particularly loyal supporter of Sir Alexander and faithful Deputy Leader in the Jamaica Labour Party, from 1949 to 1967. Became involved in politics when 21 years old and served with dedication until sudden illness and death, thirty years later.

Hugh Lawson Shearer was born on May 18, 1923 at Martha Brae,

Trelawny, close to the sugar and banana areas. He attended St. Simon’s College as a Parish Scholarship winner. He joined the BITU’s staff in April 1941 attached to the union’s weekly paper “Jamaica Worker”. His first promotion came in 1943, when Sir Alexander Bustamante newly released from Detention Camp, took over editorship of the paper and took Hugh Shearer under his wings from then. As Bustamante became more involved with the Jamaica Labour Party, Mr. Shearer went on to further promotion within the union and acquired a Government Trade Union scholarship in 1947-48.

Sir Donald was born on October 26, 1911, in Black River, St Elizabeth. He was the son of the late W. B. Sangster, Commissioned Land Surveyor of St. Elizabeth, and Mrs. Sangster. He was educated at Munro College (19211929) and was admitted to practice as a solicitor in Jamaica in 1937.

Donald Sangster was a versatile sportsman, participating actively in cricket, football, athletics and boxing while attending college. This interest in sports continued after he left Munro College, and at one time he was captain of the St. Elizabeth Parish team in the Nethersole Cricket Cup Competition.

He first moved into the political field when he was elected a Councillor of the KSAC in 1947. He was appointed Island Supervisor of the BITU and elected Vice-President of the union, at around the same time. He was elected to the House of Representatives as a member for Western Kingston 1955-59, and on being defeated was appointed to the Legislative Council. He was a member of the Senate (and its leader) from 1962 to 1967, at the same time filling the role of Jamaica’s chief spokesman on foreign affairs as Deputy Chief of Mission at the United Nations. In 1967 he was elected M.P. for Southern Clarendon and appointed Prime Minister on the death of Sir Donald Sangster in 1967.

He began his political career at the age of twenty-one when he campaigned and won a seat in the St. Elizabeth Parochial Board on June 22, 1933. He became Vice-Chairman of his Parochial Board in 1941, and Chairman in 1949.

In 1944 he made his first bid to enter national politics when as an Independent Candidate he contested the South St. Elizabeth constituency seat, and lost. He joined the Jamaica Labour Party and subsequently won his seat in the General Election of 1949. His political career in national politics suffered a temporary setback in February 1955, when his party lost the General Election and he himself lost his seat in South St. Elizabeth. Later that year he however successfully contested a by-election for the North-East Clarendon constituency.

As a trade unionist he has had a distinguished career, particularly as a negotiator. His trade union activities have served him in good stead, having brought him through the years into contact with a wide cross-section of the community – workers, civil servants, employers, traders, associations – giving him a wide knowledge of social and economic conditions in fields that matter fundamentally to Jamaican life.

He was appointed to act as Prime Minister, Minister of External Affairs and Minister of Defence in January 1965 as a result of the illness of the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Sir Alexander Bustamante. While acting Sir Donald retained the post of Minister of Finance. He had previously acted for a short while as Prime Minister in 1964.

In the political field he was at the same time prominent as a JLP representative and shared political activity with the union programme and after Bustamante, was recognized as the JLP spokesman for the working class sector of the community. Due to Bustamante’s increasing involvement with Government, Mr. Shearer took over complete charge of the BITU, and this made him a force to be reckoned with in JLP councils. He held a seat in the JLP Executive as the leading representative of the BITU and that was a position of strength.

Consequent on the victory of the JLP in the General Elections on February 21, 1967, and the resignation of Sir Alexander Bustamante, he was appointed Prime Minister on February 22, 1967, retaining at the same time the posts of Minister of Finance and Minister of Defense.

Sir Donald was a member of Jamaica’s delegation to the Heads of Commonwealth Caribbean conference in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad in 1963 and in Kingston, Jamaica in 1964. He also led the delegation to these conferences in Georgetown, Guyana in 1965 and in Bridgetown, Barbados in 1966.

As a Prime Minister (1967-1972) he presided over Jamaica’s most productive years. During this period three new alumina refineries and three large convention hotels were constructed or started. These formed the base of today’s mining and tourism industries, now the countries two largest foreign exchange earners.

He was a member of the Joint Committee of Parliament, which framed the Constitution for Independent Jamaica, and he was a member of the delegation that went to England in 1962 to discuss it with the British Government.

Indeed Hugh Shearer can claim glory. He spent over 50 years in service to his country and in pursuit of the great future he envisioned for his homeland and the greater world community.

After his party’s success at the 1967 General Election and his appointment as Prime Minister, Sir Donald had just completed forming his Cabinet when he became ill. He died on April 5, 1967.

He died on July 5, 2004 at the age of eighty-one.

8

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

The Rt. Hon. Michael Norman Manley, O.M., P.C., B.Sc. (Econ,), LL.D. (Hon.) Fourth Prime Minister: March 2, 1972 – Nov. 4, 1980, and February 13, 1989 – March 30, 1992

The Most Hon. Edward Phillip George Seaga, ON, P.C., M.P., B.A., Y.B.A., LL.D. (Hon.) Fifth Prime Minister: Nov. 4, 1980 – Feb. 13, 1989

Legacy

Legacy

He has impacted the nation with a greater sense of importance and urgency regarding national identity, and, internationally, he has impacted the ideas of capitalist and socialist leaders with his advocacy of Democratic Socialism

Local constituency organization and national cultural development are two areas of particular achievement for Edward Seaga. For forty years, was successful in a constituency that no other politician was able to hold for more than five years. His transformation of depressed inner-city areas within his West Kingston constituency, into vibrant communities, made him the unrivalled king of constituency transformation in Jamaica.

Culturally, he was the nation’s leading pioneer of ideas and institutions to promote culture, nationally and internationally.

The life of this charismatic Jamaican leader began on December 10, 1924 in Kingston, Jamaica. Born to National Hero Norman Washington Manley and his wife, Edna Manley, Michael had one other sibling, his brother Douglas.

In September 1943, Manley left Jamaica to study at McGill University in Canada but two weeks later volunteered to join the Royal Canadian Air Force.

The Rt. Hon. Edward Phillip George Seaga, P.C., M.P., LL.D., former Prime Minister (1980-89), Leader of the Opposition since 1989, was born on May 28, 1930 to the late Phillip George Seaga and Erna Seaga (nee Maxwell). He was educated at Wolmer’s Boys’ School in Jamaica and graduated from Harvard University in 1952 with a Bachelor’s Degree in the Social Sciences.

In 1952 the National Workers’ Union (NWU), an affiliate of the PNP, was formed and Mr. Manley began to handle union negotiations. Among the most often retold events in Michael Manley’s career, as a trade unionist was the 97day strike, which he led at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation in 1964. It was during that strike that the workers dubbed him “Joshua”, a nickname that many PNP supporters still fondly use.

On August 22, 1965 Mr. Seaga married Elizabeth “Mitsy” Constantine, Miss Jamaica 1965. They have two sons, Christopher and Andrew and a daughter Anabella. This marriage dissolved in 1995 and the following year, on June 14, he married Carla Vendryes. They have a daughter. Mr. Seaga plays tennis, hunts and collects Jamaican folk music. A keen gardener and amateur landscaper, Mr. Seaga has translated his love for plants and flowers into the beautiful Enchanted Garden Resort, which has become a unique attraction in Jamaica. He is also a member of the Kingston Cricket Club, various hunting clubs and the Jamaica Skeet Club.

In 1970, Michael Manley took over the leadership of the PNP when he was elected to that position, following his father’s resignation. In 1972 after reorganizing the PNP and embarking on an election campaign marked by the slogan, “Better Must Come”, Manley led the PNP to victory at the polls. In the middle of his first four-year term, Mr. Manley’s Government declared that its ideological platform would become Democratic Socialism. This political shift led to the introduction of such social and economic reforms as the Minimum Wage Law, compulsory recognition of labour unions, maternity leave for women, the Children’s Act (Bastard Act) which granted equal status to children born to unwed as well as married parents. Free secondary education was also introduced. The Jamaica Movement for the Advancement of Literacy (JAMAL) and the Basic School Development Programmes were other initiatives of the new socialist Government. Manley’s Government also introduced the Bauxite Levy in 1974 that exacted 7.5 percent of the earnings from bauxite sales. In addition, Government moved to acquire majority ownership of the local assets in the alumina industry.

Mr. Seaga’s political career began in 1959 when Sir Alexander Bustamante, the founder of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), nominated him to serve in the Upper House of the Jamaica Legislature in the Legislative Council (later the Senate). His appointment at age 29 made him the youngest member ever appointed to the Legislative Council, which established the framework for national independence in August 1962.

In April 1962 Mr. Seaga was elected Member of Parliament for Western Kingston and he has held that seat for 40 consecutive years. He is the only person who has been re-elected as Member of Parliament for that constituency for more than one term and is the longest serving M.P. in the history of Jamaica. Immediately after winning his seat in 1962, Mr. Seaga was appointed to the Cabinet as Minister of Development and Welfare. Following the 1967 General Elections, he was made Minister of Finance and Planning and in 1974 he became Leader of the JLP and the Parliamentary Opposition until the General Elections of October 30, 1980 when the Jamaica Labour Party won a landslide victory over the People’s National Party (PNP).

In 1985 the nation was made aware of the varied health problems, which were to eventually lead to Mr. Manley’s retirement from active politics in 1992. He underwent surgery for diverticulitis, a benign thyroid growth, colon removal, prostrate gland cancer and blood clots in his leg, along with bouts of influenza and pneumonia.

The 1989 General Elections saw the return of the PNP to Government and Manley as Prime Minister. Prior to his re-election, Mr. Manley publicly declared that he had made errors during his previous administration and he took a more moderate ideological line. After three years in office Mr. Manley resigned as leader of the PNP and Prime Minister of Jamaica.

The mandate of Mr. Seaga and the JLP was renewed in the uncontested 1983 General Elections. He remained Prime Minister until February 1989. Mr. Seaga was also Minister of Finance and Planning, and his portfolio included responsibilities for information and culture. Several economic and social programmes, which have had a significant impact on Jamaica’s growth and development, were conceived and initiated by Mr. Seaga.

During the period 1973 to 1988 Mr. Manley wrote six books. Mr. Manley was recognized as an avid sports enthusiast, whose special interests were cricket and boxing. He was also the person who popularised the practice of jogging around the Mona Reservoir, where for many years he exercised each day.

Michael Norman Manley died on March 10, 1997 at the age of seventy-three.

9

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

The Most. Hon. Percival James Patterson, ON, PC, QC, MP, B.A. (Hon.), LL.B. Sixth Prime Minister: Mar. 30, 1992 to Mar. 30, 2006

The Most. Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, M.P., Leader of the Opposition Seventh Prime Minister: Mar. 31, 2006 – Sept. 10, 2007 (the seventh and tenth current Prime Minister of Jamaica

Legacy Jamaica’s most successful politician at national level, breaking the ‘thirdterm’ barrier. His style of leadership is not to rely on fiery rhetoric, but on fundamental principles of procedure. He has done more than any other political leader to date, to empower his associates and to structure a party committed negotiate peace and settle differences through a reconciling process rather than confrontation. His wide experience at national, regional and international level, as a negotiator, has served him well in office as Prime Minister.

History was made in Jamaica when on February 26, 2006 Mrs. SimpsonMiller was elected as the first female president of the People’s National Party (PNP) and on March 21, 2006 when she was sworn in as Jamaica’s first female Prime Minister.

Portia Simpson-Miller was born on December 12, 1945 in the rural community of Wood Hall, St. Catherine. She is married to Errald Miller.

Mrs. Simpson Miller received her formal education at the Marlie Hill Primary School; the former St. Martin’s High School and Jamaica Commercial Institute. Mrs. Simpson-Miller also received a Degree in Public Administration from the Union Institute of Miami. Several years later, in 2002 the Institute conferred upon Mrs. Simpson-Miller the degree of Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. The award of this honorary degree was quite significant as Mrs. Simpson-Miller is the first graduate to have received the Institute’s honorary degree. In addition, Mrs. Simpson Miller holds the Certificate in Advanced Management from the University of California at Berkley and a Certificate in Public Relations and Advanced Management from the Institute of Management and Production, Jamaica.

Percival James Patterson was born in 1935. His parents Henry Patterson, a farmer and Ina James, a primary school teacher were both from the parish of Hanover. He was educated at Somerton Primary School, St. James and won a Purscell Trust Scholarship to Calabar High School, from which he graduated in 1953. From there he went on to the University of the West Indies (UWI) at Mona, and graduated in 1958 with a B.A. (Honours) in English.

He studied Law at the London School of Economics (LSE), where he was awarded the Leverhume Scholarship and the Sir Hughes Parry prize for Excellence in the Law of Contracts. He graduated from that institution in 1963 with an LL.B. Mr. Patterson was called to the Bar at Middle Temple in 1963 and also admitted to the Jamaican Bar in that year.

1974 was the beginning of Mrs. Simpson-Miller’s career in representational politics. She was asked to represent the People’s National Party in the Municipal elections of 1974 representing the Trench Town area. Mrs. Simpson-Miller’s surprising success in the Municipal elections made way for her to be nominated as a candidate for the general elections. This was also another success story with her winning in both the 1976 and 1980 general elections. She has also been Member of Parliament for South-West St. Andrew since 1989. Mrs. Simpson-Miller has been one of the most successful and popular female politicians in Jamaica.

P.J. Patterson began political activity at the UWI where he was one of the founders of the Political Club. As its President, he presided at the first political address given in the Caribbean by the late Dr. Eric Williams, founder of Trinidad and Tobago’s People’s National Movement. In 1955, Mr. Patterson took part in a UWI project, which brought him into contact with several prominent members of the People’s National Party (PNP).

After graduating from the UWI he joined the PNP’s organising staff in 1958. His early training and service were in St. Thomas, St. Catherine, St. Elizabeth, Manchester and Westmoreland. He moved on to membership on the National and Executive Councils in 1964. He was elected a VicePresident of the PNP in 1969 and served as Party Chairman from 1983.

Her accomplishments include reform to the Overseas Farm workers program through the Overseas Recruitment Centre for Farm Workers. It was also Mrs. Portia Simpson’s initiative, which resulted in the significant growth in the National Insurance Fund, which benefits pensioners. She also had high on her agenda the employment of youth and women.

He was appointed Prime Minister of Jamaica in March 1992, following his election as President of the PNP, on the retirement of former Prime Minister the late Michael Manley. Mr. Patterson was returned to office following the national elections of 1993, and now has the distinction of being the first Prime Minister to be sworn in for a fourth consecutive term of office, after he led the PNP to victory in the elections of October 2002.

Mrs. Simpson-Miller is an avid supporter of Jamaican athletes and she would be seen at many sports events often dressed in the National colours. It was also under the leadership of Portia Simpson-Miller as Sports Minister that the Indoor Sports Facility at the National Stadium was built and the Sports Development Foundation established.

Prime Minister Patterson is respected worldwide as an astute international statesman who has made a mark in such organisations as the United Nations, the Group of 77, the Commonwealth, the Non-Aligned Movement, the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group, the Association of Caribbean States, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and many others. He has chaired the Group of 15 developing nations (G-15) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). He has also served as Chairman of the Caricom Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on External Negotiations.

After ambivalence during her first term in office, Simpson-Miller became the first head of government in Jamaican history to formally endorse civil rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens during an election campaign

Mr. Patterson’s interests include jazz, Jamaican music and such spectator sports as cricket, boxing, tennis and track and field.

10

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

The Hon. Orette Bruce Golding, M.P., Prime Minister Eight Prime Minister: Sept. 11, 2007 – Oct. 23, 2011

Andrew Michael Holness, M.P. Ninth Prime Minister: Oct. 23, 2011 -

Orette Bruce Golding, the third of four children was born to father Tacius Golding, and mother Enid Golding (nee Bent) on December 5, 1947. He was enrolled in Watermount Elementary School at the age of five, two years younger than the normal enrolment age; the then principal was early childhood education pioneer D.R.B. Grant.

Andrew Michael Holness was born to working class parents in the southern city of Spanish Town, on July 22nd, 1972. He attended the St. Catherine High School where he was both head boy and valedictorian. He is also a graduate of the University of the West Indies where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management Studies and a Master of Science Degree in Development Studies. In 1994, prior to entering representational politics, Mr. Holness worked as the Executive Director of one of Jamaica’s oldest non-government organizations (NGOs), the Voluntary Organization for Uplifting Children (VOUCH) and in that capacity, led extensive social work in several inner city communities of Kingston. In 1996 he joined the Premium Group of Companies and functioned as a special assistant to then Leader of the Opposition, the Most Hon. Edward Seaga. In his capacity as personal assistant, he was assigned the responsibility of developing poverty reduction and social investment policies for the Jamaica Labor Party (JLP).

He sat the Common Entrance Examination in 1957 and was successful.

However, he was not awarded a free space to St. Georges College on the grounds that he was too young. Armed with his common entrance results, the young Bruce Golding went to St. Georges College without the knowledge or consent of his parents to plead his case. The then headmaster, Fr. Edward Donahue, overheard him speaking with his secretary and took him into his office. As a result, he accepted him as a first form student under the condition his parents could afford to pay the tuition. In 1962 he successfully sat the Cambridge Examination before he reached the age of 15 years. In 1963 he then transferred to Jamaica College to pursue his Religious Knowledge and was also chosen to represent the school as Head Boy. In 1966 he enrolled in the University of the West Indies where he studied Economics. He graduated three years later with a B.Sc. Degree in Economics.

According to Jared Mcallister, “in 1997 at the age of 25 he was first elected to the House of Representatives to represent his home district of West Central St. Andrew as Member of Parliament.” He served as Opposition Spokesperson on Land and Development from 1999 to 2002. In 2002 he switched portfolio to Housing and in 2005 Holness was asked by the new leader of the JLP, Bruce Golding to take on the topical issue of education.

He was sworn in as the Minister of Education after the JLP won the September 2007 general election. He has also served as Leader of Government Business in the House of Representatives and, by extension, the man responsible for electoral matters in that chamber since 2008. Following endorsements from outgoing Prime Minister, Bruce Golding, and government Members of Parliament, he succeeded Bruce Golding as both Leader of the Jamaica Labour Party and Prime Minister.

From an early age Mr. Golding has been involved in Jamaica’s political arena.

His father Tacius Golding was first elected to the House of Representatives for West St. Catherine in 1949 when young Golding was two years old. By the General Elections of 1962 Bruce had taken on the task of setting up and operating the public address systems at political meetings. In 1967 while still at university Mr. Golding suspended his studies due to changes in the constituency boundaries, which resulted in a political crisis for his father.

Golding took charge of his father’s campaign, which resulted in his winning the seat by a small margin of 878 votes compared to the usual over 3000 votes.

In 1968, Bruce Golding was elected Vice Chairman of the Jamaica Labour Party Constituency Executive for West St. Catherine and appointed a member of the Board of Directors of the National Lotteries Commission while still attending university.

On October 23rd 2011, Mr. Holness became Jamaica’s youngest Prime Minister and the first born after the nation’s independence in 1962. Holness in his 15th year of representational politics was sworn in by affirmation on Sunday October 23, 2011 as Jamaica’s ninth Prime Minister. Andrew Holness, a Seventh Day Adventist by faith, is married to Juliet, a chartered accountant and businesswoman and they have two boys, Adam and Matthew, aged nine and seven respectively. Mr. Holness enjoys a game of chess, jogging, cycling and a round of table tennis.

Bruce Golding was instrumental in returning the Jamaica Labour Party to power in the 1980 general election. On September 30, 1984 Bruce Golding was elected Chairman of the Jamaica Labour Party after serving for over ten years as General Secretary.

In the 1990’s the views of the Jamaica Labour Party and that of Mr. Golding began to differ. This led to major disagreement with some senior members of the Jamaica Labour Party, which eventually resulted in Mr. Golding tendering his resignation effective September 6, 1995 as Opposition Spokesman on Finance and by extension Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament. He then tendered his resignation to the Jamaica Labour Party effective Monday October 3 1995.

In September of 2002, after intensive negotiations Mr. Golding reentered the Jamaica Labour Party. Mr. Golding contested the General Election of 2007 as President of the Jamaica Labour Party. The Party was successful in what was the closest election in Jamaica's history. He was sworn in as the Honourable Orette Bruce Golding, Prime Minister of Jamaica, on September 11, 2007.

11

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April, 2012

JAMAICAN NATIONAL FLAG The Jamaica National Flag was first raised on Independence Day, August 6, 1962. It signifies the birth of our nation. The Flag brings to mind memories of past achievements and gives inspiration towards further success. It is flown on many triumphant occasions, showing the pride that Jamaicans have in their country and in the flag itself.

Design A bipartisan committee of the Jamaica House of Representatives designed the Jamaican Flag, which consists of a diagonal cross with four triangles placed side by side. The diagonal cross is gold; the top and bottom triangles are green; and the hoist and fly (side) triangles are black.

Symbolism “The sun shineth, the land is green and the people are strong and creative” is the symbolism of the colours of the flag. Black depicts the strength and creativity of the people; Gold, the natural wealth and beauty of sunlight; and green, hope and agricultural resources.

National Pledge Before God and all mankind, I pledge the love and loyalty of my heart, the wisdom and courage of my mind, the strength and vigor of my body in the service of my fellow citizens; I promise to stand up for Justice, Brotherhood and Peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think generously and honestly, so that Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty, fellowship and prosperity, and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race.

The Jamaican National Anthem • In September 1961, it was announced that the competition for the words of the National Anthem would be judged in the first instance. The successful script would then be published and a contest for the music put in train. Nearly one hundred entries for the words were received and it was subsequently announced on March 17 that the competition for the words of the National Anthem would close on Saturday March 31, 1962.

• A Joint Committee of the Houses of Parliament was responsible for making the final selection. Members remained divided between two possible choices until Thursday July 19, 1962 when the large majority of the House, after eager debate, approved the resolution, which was put to it and the version previously heard in the lobby was selected as suitable. The Anthem is the creative work of four persons, the late Rev. and Hon. Hugh Sherlock, OJ, OBE, the late Hon. Robert Lightbourne, OJ, the late Mapletoft Poulle and Mrs. Poulle (now Mrs. Raymond Lindo).

NATIONAL ANTHEM

NATIONAL SONG: I PLEDGE MY HEART

Eternal Father bless our land, Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand, Keep us free from evil powers, Be our light through countless hours.

To our Leaders, Great Defender, Grant true wisdom from above.

Justice, Truth be ours forever, Jamaica, Land we love.

Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.

I pledge my heart forever To serve with humble pride This shining homeland, ever So long as earth abide.

I pledge my heart, this island As God and faith shall live My work, my strength, my love and My loyalty to give.

Teach us true respect for all, Stir response to duty’s call, Strengthen us the weak to cherish, Give us vision lest we perish.

Knowledge send us Heavenly Father, Grant true wisdom from above.

Justice, Truth be ours forever, Jamaica, land we love.

Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.

O green isle of the Indies, Jamaica, strong and free, Our vows and loyal promises O heartland, ‘tis to Thee.

Sources: http://www.jis.gov.jm/ http://www.nlj.gov.jm/bios-a-h http://vipattractions.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki

12

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April 2012

Dowdie Family News and Updates Daniel George Cooper, son of Mary (Dowdie) Cooper, celebrated his 95th birthday on March 1, 2012. On Sabbath, March 3rd, he was honored at his church, Discovery Bay Seventh Day Adventist Church, St Ann, Jamaica. Just before the 11am service, he and his family were invited to the front of the church for a presentation. In attendance were his wife, Pansy; daughters Stacy (and husband Omar), Donnette and Carolyn; son Kingsley (and partner Romae); grand daughters Avrylle (Stacy) and Safia (Kingsley); and his caregiver, Betty. His son-in-law, Omar sang, "Great is Thy Faithfulness." A plaque, inscribed to "Elder Daniel George Cooper," was presented to him. It reads as follows: "In appreciation for your contribution and dedication to the service of God. God bless you on this your 95th birthday." Carolyn thanked the church for the honor bestowed on Dadda. The First Elder, Mrs. Larnet Robinson, officially presented the plague to the Church Pastor Carlington Hylton who read and presented the plaque to Dadda. Immediately following this presentation, a special prayer was offered for Dadda who, in turn, made remarks. Absent were son Sebert and family (NY) who sent lots of love and best wishes.

Two quilts, made for Daniel by Donnette (one on his 80th birthday, the other on his 95th) were displayed outside the church doors. The first quilt traces his family history in pictures and the second is more utilitarian--to keep him warm. After church, lunch was served followed my toasts, cake and ice cream.

Donnette Cooper & Daniel George Cooper

Left to right: Stacy Cooper-Battick, Donnette Cooper, Safia Cooper, Daniel George Cooper, Romae Gordon, Carolyn Cooper, Kingsley Cooper, Pansy Cooper, Omar Battick, Avrylle Battick.

13

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April 2012

2011 Late Submissions

In Loving Memory

2012 Dowdie Arrivals

14

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April 2012

D ow die Entrepreneurs B WA H onours 5 0 Outst anding W om en Published: Monday | March 12, 2012

Cherie Dowdie, granddaughter of Leonard Dowdie, has started a small business in Jamaica called the “LIVE! Juice Bar. Fifty outstanding Jamaican women were honoured on International Women's Day, last Thursday, by the Bureau of Women's Affairs, at the Wyndham Kingston hotel.

100% Fruit and Vegetable Juices and Smoothies made Live! All enzymes and nutrients are still viable, and it's done while you watch!

We're mobile so you can find us at various events and locations. The LIVE! Juice Bar makes 100% juice and smoothies with an extractor, no sugar or water added, and it's made while the customer watches.

In keeping with Jamaica's upcoming 50th anniversary, 50 women were selected for their contribution to a wide range of fields and overall nation building. Carolyn Joy Cooper was honored for her contribution to culture.

The juice bar will have two primary menus - "Lightweight" to cater to customers who are more interested in taste, and "Heavyweight" to cater to more health conscious customers and raw foodists. We'll also have a smoothie menu, and a "shots & extras" menu, which will include items such as nut and seed add-ins, ginger, mint, and lemongrass to add nutritional value, sweetness and flavour.

Congrats Cousin Carolyn! http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner

If you are on Facebook, “Like” LIVE! Juice Bar to keep up with Cherie’s progress, as she gets ready to launch and grow her business.

Tragedy in th e Family

For further information, visit the LIVE! Juice Bar page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LiveJuiceBar, or contact Cherie directly via email (livejuicebar@gmail.com) or call 1-(876) 276-5074.

Vevean Dowdie and her daughter Joy Watson suffered a terrible tragedy when their home at Mount St. Joseph Preparatory School (Mandeville, JA), was destroyed by a fire on February 25th. Both were left with only the clothes on their backs. I recently spoke with Vevean who expressed that everything that she worked for in her life was gone. Vevean and Joy are now staying with a friend in St. Elizabeth. If you are able to assist Vevean and Joy in anyway, please contact her via email: veveandowdie@hotmail.com or phone: (876) 568-5142.

Evans Roache, grandson of Muriel (Dowdie) Roach, has also dipped his toes into the entrepreneurial world. Evans recently started a part time business on saving money on energy bills each month if you live in Texas, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey.

If interested, go to his website http://evansroache.igniteinc.biz and click on request for service. Evans need as many folks to transfer over that live in those particular states. If interested in working with the company part-time or full-time, go to his website and click join ignite and follow directions. This is a great opportunity to make extra money, save money, while working from home.

15

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12

The Dowdie News Gazette Volume 2, Issue 2

April 2012

Dowdie Birthdays April Joy Watson Devon Allen Donnette Cooper Starr Dowdie Casharn Rowe Toni-Kae Watson-Grant Janina Francis Jacory Collins Kayla Watson-Grant Collin Roache Rodari Lyn, Jr. Courtney Dowdie (UK) Deidre Charles Youri Marcia Scarlett Michelle Legister Rhianna Brown Owen Dowdie Simon Mitchell Kingston Irie Roache Zyiann Viera Roache Johann Chambers Gayon Chambers Kemar Fearon, Jr. Ras-Nyah Grant Bilal Mubarak Janice Williams-Silvera Patricia Sawyers Sheea Scarlett Natasha Robinson

May 02 03 03 03 04 08 10 13 13 18 18 19 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 26 27 28 28 28 29 29 29 29 30

Keron Dowdie Ayshian Black Adrianna Brown Kelsey Bailey Davia Dowdie Rohan Roache Sherlian Dowdie Alleena Porter Angel Black Armani Dowdie Nickeisha Mason Sadie Chambers Winsome Dowdie-Patrice Bradley Shepherd Neil Beswick Leopold Sawyers Mathew Smith Chris Dowdie Jervelle Fearon Crystal Williams Tevin Nebar Maria Rock Destiny Williams Natasha Gravesande Enoch Dowdie

June 01 05 05 07 08 08 08 10 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 21 22 24 24 24 25 29 29 29 29

Natty Sawyers Ephraim Dowdie Shaun Legister Dale Dowdie Kerri-Ann McKenzie Jerry Brooks Rita Dowdie Delano Dowdie, Sr. Tajae Dowdie Zaria Gayle Hope Scarlett Adore Black Stuart McKenzie Raphael Dowdie Donovan Dyer Adele Dowdie Andre Malcolm Nala Roache Robert Dowdie Owen Donaldson Chloe Sawyers Deon Sawyers Keyone Dowdie Janet Roache Cordehlia Williams Tony Sawyers

03 03 05 07 07 07 08 12 12 14 15 16 17 17 18 19 20 20 21 22 22 22 23 26 26 28

Do w die W eddi ng A nn iv ersari es Apri l Sean & Edwina Dowdie – April 1, 2005 Orgille “Roy” & Paulette Scarlett – April 11, 1981 Ma y

Robert & Racent Dowdie – May 28, 2000 Collin & Stacey Roache - May 9, 2009

Jun e

Hans & Deirdre Charles – June 1, 2002 John & Louise Dowdie – June 25, 1968 Homer & Leonarda McKenzie – June 29, 1975

Please let me know the date of your birthday or any missing family member’s and I will add it to the list.

I hope you like this issue of The Dowdie News Gazette. I appreciate your continued feedback. Please continue to let me know your thoughts, suggestions or comments about the newsletters and any stories that you may have regarding your branch of the family. If you have any old photographs or newspaper clippings, please send them to dowdiefamilyreunion@gmail.com or to the attention of: Antonia Allen, 234-18 137th Avenue, Rosedale, NY 11422.

Please continue to send me your pictures, new arrival information, etc. to help us stay connected and updated on our achievements.

Social Media: If you are on Facebook, stop by our Group Dowdie Family, and say “hello” or share words of inspiration.

Also, we recently established a Twitter account: @dowdiefamily, follow us.

COMING SOON: www.dowdiefamily.org

16

“We cannot destroy kindred: our chains stretch a little sometimes, but they never break.”

- Marquise de Sevigne -

Published

: 04/15/12