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How you can prevent identity theft Page 7
March 15- 28, 2010
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• A community newspaper serving the parishes of Manchester, St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland
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2008 Press Assn. of Jamaica Double Awardee
•southcoastnews@yahoo.com
number of fishermen who operate from the South Coast, are questioning what effect the granting of new offshore oil exploration licences will have on the already depleted fishing stock in Jamaican waters. The Jamaican government on March 1 offered 19 offshore and four onshore blocks for licensing for oil and gas exploration in London. According to Minister of State in the Ministry of Energy and Mining, Hon. Laurence Broderick, who spoke at the launch which was held at the Geological Society, low energy cost is key to Jamaica's industrial development. So while the programme to develop and expand renewable energy sources would continue at full speed, the use of oil to generate energy will be continue for the foreseeable future. "Presently, our dependence on oil leaves us at a highly disadvantageous position, in comparison with our competitors. The high cost (of electricity) to domestic customers and industry means that we are just not competitive," he said. New Data Indicate Positive Signs Jamaican officials are hopeful that with new seismic data showing very positive prospects, the country could, in the long term, become one of the region's top oil producers.
Fishing boats at rest in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth
Fishermen dread oil exploration plans But local fishermen whose day-to-day existence depends on what the catch at sea, are not so upbeat. Over the last several years, stocks of fish off Jamaica's coastline have showed constant decline due to over-fishing and the use of destructive fishing methods. Many fishermen now fear that their livelihood will be put at further risk once exploration for oil begins. Although government is yet to specify what areas of the country's territorial waters will be explored, according to research, waters off Jamaica's South Coast in the region of the parish of St. Elizabeth shows the greatest promise. With previous efforts to find oil off the coast of Jamaica requiring the use of explosive charges that damaged the ocean bed, frightened off fish stocks and disturbed breeding patterns, the fear of local fishermen is understandable. In 2007, a licence was approved by Cabinet to a Hong Kong-based firm to conduct exploration activities in Jamaica's waters for oil and natural gas deposits. Also, two exploration licences spread over a total of eight blocks were previously awarded in 2005 by the then Government to the Finder/Gippsland joint venture out of Australia, and Rainville Energy Ltd. out of Canada.
This was not the first time that Jamaica has set out to find oil. Eleven wells were drilled between 1955 and 1982. Ten of these showed yields of oil and natural gas, but none in commercial quantities. The country however derived earnings from the exploration activities through training and acreage fees, which the exploration companies have to pay to the PCJ as a condition of their licence. So far, Jamaica has earned approximately $22 million. Under the terms of the 2005 exploration licences, an agreement to provide compensation for fisherfolk affected by the activities was signed at the between representatives of Finder/Gippsland, Rainville, Proteam and the Jamaica Fisherman's Co-operative Union was entered into. South Coast At Greatest Risk However with the island's most fertile breeding ground for fish existing off the south coast where a major part of the exploration activities were centred, the terms of the agreement proved unsatisfactory to many players in the fishing industry, despite the existence of an authority comprising a claims investigator, a claims verification committee and a claims appeal tribunal to adjudicate any claims that may arise for compensation for damage arising
from activities associated with the search for oil. With the launch of this new round of exploration licences, no word has come of any similar arbitration body being established. Jamaica's tourism product has proven to be one of the most resilient sectors of the economy particularly during the global recession that is only just showing signs of easing. Drilling for oil would have significant negative effect on the island's reputation as a 'green' destination. Many are questioning why the government would risk the destruction of our natural resources rather than attempting to attract new investment in wind, solar and other clean energy. This would allow the country to also earn from the sale of carbon credits on the international market, which is currently a multi-billion facility. Burning of fossil fuels is a major source of industrial greenhouse gas emissions, especially for power, cement, steel, textile, fertilizer and many other industries which rely on fossil fuels (coal, electricity derived from coal, natural gas and oil). The concept of carbon credits came into existence as a result of increasing awareness of the need for controlling emissions. Carbon credits can be created from projects that either sequester carbon dioxide or other
greenhouse gases or save greenhouse gases from being emitted using new technologies Alternative Energy A Better Option So is oil exploration worth the potential environmental damage in the context of rapid developments in alternate energy? According to consultant to the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ), Dr. Raymond Wright, while the data for oil and gas exploration in Jamaica was positive, any benefits would come in the long term. "We are talking about anything that could happen in 2015 and beyond. It's not next year, so we are really planning for the long term future," he said. Minister Broderick however noted that there is an on-going programme to develop additional sources of renewable energy. "We have a couple of wind farms and we are seeking to establish more. With solar, we have not moved as fast because of the cost, but there are a number of companies that have expressed an interest and the pilot projects in hospitals are going well," he pointed out. It therefore stands to reason that more effort should be put into these projects rather than putting the country's environment at risk (see related stories on page 15).
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
JNBS cops MoneyGram's Outstanding Agent award presentation of a plaque at the Society's Chief Office in Half-Way-Tree in Kingston recently. The building society, through its subsidiary JN Money Services Limited (JNMS), has been an Agent of MoneyGram since 1991 and is the longest serving Agent in Jamaica. MoneyGram services are provided through the JNMS network in 32 JNBS locations across the island, as well as in the UK, USA, Canada and Cayman.
Earl Jarrett, (second right), General Manager, Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), accepts the MoneyGram award on behalf of JNBS for being an outstanding Agent for 2008/2009 from Daniel O'Malley, Executive Vice-President, MoneyGram, witnessed by Steve Higgins (left), Caribbean Regional Manager, MoneyGram and Leesa Kow, General Manager, JN Money Services Ltd.
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oneyGram International Inc., has recognised Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) as one of its outstanding Agents for 2008/2009.
The announcement was made by Daniel O'Malley, Executive Vice-President of MoneyGram and Steve Higgins, Caribbean Regional Manager, MoneyGram, during the
Valued Partnership “We value our partnership with the Jamaica National Building Society and JN Money Services Limited and look forward to strengthening this relationship,” said Mr. O'Malley. “The support of our Agents is important to us and we are pleased that the Jamaica National continues to play a very important role in facilitating our customers,” he added. Mr. O'Malley commended the organization for its compliance with international money transfer regulations and for helping to maintain the image of the MoneyGram brand in the Jamaican market. Earl Jarrett, General Manager, JNBS,
expressed gratitude of the Society for the recognition. “This award is very meaningful and significant to us, and speaks volume to our commitment to the more than 120,000 MoneyGram customers we serve annually,” Mr. Jarrett said. “We are pleased about this recognition, and are committed to continuing to provide fast, efficient and accurate transfers on behalf of MoneyGram, while maintaining excellent customer service.” Mr. Jarrett also pointed out that the MoneyGram service complements the Society's JN International Money Transfer service. “Customers sending or receiving money transfers from Australia to Jamaica , for example, benefit from using MoneyGram as the JN International Money Transfer service is not available in that country,” he explained. He noted that the partnership with MoneyGram was mutually beneficial, and said that, “We will endeavour to maintain it to strengthen ties between Jamaica and the world.”
Broadleaf residents benefit from Jamalco health fair
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pproximately 100 residents of Broadleaf, and surrounding communities in Manchester, benefited from a health fair hosted by Jamalco at the Broadleaf Primary School, recently. The fair, organised by Community Relations Officer, Mr. Errol Davy, in collaboration with Jamalco's Medical Department, saw residents being offered health checks, vision screening and counselling. The health professionals who participated in the fair reported that diabetes, hypertension and increased cholesterol levels were major health issues discovered, with 57 of the persons screened being hypertensive, 28 were diabetic while 24 had elevated cholesterol levels.
The team referred 13 persons to hospital, while nine were referred to private doctors. The eyes of 93 persons were checked, resulting in 41 being referred to the Lions Sight Clinic for further intervention. The residents expressed their gratitude to Jamalco. The fair was one of several planned by the company to assist residents of its host communities.
SOUTH COAST NEWS Unit 2- 10 Ward Ave. Mandeville, Manchester Tel: 305-0435 (Claro) 381-3564 (Digicel) 531-4785 (LIME) southcoastnews@yahoo.com
Editor Clive Williams Writers Howard Hendriks Shereido Carter Photographers Clive Williams Phillip Lemonte Carl Levy Jessica Williams
Special thanks to the Jamaica Information Service
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
Minister Grange launches National Youth Survey T
he Minister of Youth, Sports the and Culture, Honourable Olivia Grange, MP, has officially launched the first National Youth Survey. At the end of the survey, the Government of Jamaica will have a clearer picture of the economic, social, physical, spiritual, education and political situation of Jamaica's youth. The results of the survey will also inform the revision of the National Youth Policy being led by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture through the National Centre for Youth Development (NCYD). Minister Grange said the National Youth Survey will provide a unique insight into the mind of Jamaica's youth. “As a Government, we are committed to understanding and assessing the situation that our youth are experiencing across the various social groups. We recognise that our young people are not homogeneous but very diverse. This survey that will be undertaken over the next nine months will provide us with primary data leading to a complete set of data for youth development programmes.” The survey is part of the National Youth Development project under which the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture will be establishing Youth Information Centres across the island and expanding youth mainstreaming programmes.
of Jamaica, the country's primary data collection and data analysis agency. Minister Grange said the survey would target a wide cross-section of Jamaican young people. “I want to speak directly to all my young people here. To all the yute 'n yute. I want you to listen to me keenly. This is your project. It's for you; it's all about you. And I want you to work with us. The information that we will gather, will allow us to better plan, not so much for you, but to plan with you for your holistic development. The data will be collected at the parish level and therefore we encourage you to commit some time to participate in this process. We are talking to all youth. Youth on the corner. Youth in school. Youth in children's homes. Youth in sports. Youth in culture. Youth everywhere.” In his greetings at the launching and contracts signing ceremony for the National Youth Survey, the Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, Senator Warren Newby said the survey was an indication of the Government's commitment to consulting and developing social partnerships aimed at finding solutions to the challenges.
IDB Funding The first phase of the National Youth Development project is being financed through a loan of US$11M from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Minister Grange said the IDB was “a committed partner” in youth development. The survey will be conducted by the Statistical Institute
U. S. Consular Agency in Montego Bay relocates A new U.S. Consular Agency will open on Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at Whitter Village Suite #EU1 in Rosehall, Montego Bay to provide consular services to U.S. citizens throughout the western region of Jamaica. This includes the parishes of Hanover, St. Ann, St. James, Trelawny, and Westmoreland. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at the new location on Monday March 29. The new facility will enable more effective and comfortable services to U.S. citizens requiring consular services. Normal agency operations
include services dealing with U.S. citizenship, passport matters, notarial services, and any other non-emergency needs. The agency's regular business hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday (closed on Jamaican and U.S. holidays). You may call (876) 952 - 0160 or make contact via e-mail at, USConsAgency.MoBay@cw jamaica.com. U.S. citizens in need of assistance outside of U.S Consular Agency operating hours may contact the U.S. Embassy in Kingston at (876)7026000 or go online to the website http://kingston.usembassy.gov/
March 15 - 28, 2010
“No increase in taxes”
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.... Minister Shaw
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inister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Audley Shaw, has stated that only property tax will be raised in the 2010/2011 financial year. Mr. Shaw made this disclosure as he opened the debate on the second Supplementary Estimates of Expenditure in the House of Representatives on Wednesday, March 17. In his presentation, Minister Shaw stated that "no stone (will be) unturned" as the government tries to improve the compliance rate of paying taxes.
"We have a culture in Jamaica of tax evasion and tax avoidance and too few of us are the captive people in PAYE that have no say in that 25 per cent that is taken off at the top and that you have to pay.” "But I have to send the signal. We want to spread the tax burden; we need fairness and equity and we need more people, everyone who is earning an income, to begin to voluntarily to comply in paying your taxes." According to Mr. Shaw, the problem of tax evasion and avoidance is not just a monetary issue "as it comes down to the fundamental issue of public order and respect for the laws of the land." "So, we have to set these new standards in the country and I want to send the signal that in the new fiscal year it is going to be compliance that we are working on, not additional tax types or additional tax burden, but compliance in terms of spreading the burden across the system”.
Violence Prevention Alliance empowering young people
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he Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA) is continuing to empower youths from inner-city communities through the use of technology to help them improve their skills and interpersonal relationships. This time it is through the use of the Autoskills computer software, the acquisition of which was funded through partnership with the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) Foundation. The JNBS Foundation purchased the software licence for $1.4 million last year for use in several community centres. The computer software provides users with an individualized, highly effective and scalable literacy intervention solution. It is designed to help struggling students of all ages, skills and abilities, to master the fundamental skills of reading. The Autoskills products use a researchbased approach that is proven to generate significant and sustainable gains for at-risk students of all ages. It is currently being used in several learning centres established by the VPA in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, in a number of inner-city communities including Tel Aviv, Jones Town and Rose Town. It is also being used in the JNBS Foundation's network of all-inclusive resource centres, which provide a stimulating learning environment for youngsters, in four communities August Town, Maverly, Treasure Beach and Ocho Rios. Special Projects Manager JNBS Foundation, Mrs. Claire Harrisingh, said that as a result of the use of Autoskills, many young persons have made significant improvement in their literacy and numeracy skills and increased their self-confidence. "In Maverley and Treasure Beach, the stigma of illiteracy or difficulty with reading has been removed by providing this (software), which simultaneously improves computer
literacy," Mrs. Harrisingh stated. Chairman of the VPA, Dr. Elizabeth Ward, in the meantime, stated that the project is about using technology to bring harmony to the communities. She noted that violence places pressure on the country's infrastructure. "Violence continues to be the leading cause of death among males, costing the health sector more than $2 billion annually to treat injuries resulting from violence," she pointed out. Dr. Ward noted that the young people have already reaped a "host of benefits" from the programme, particularly males, many of whom were only functionally literate. "Many young people have been
empowered by the knowledge they gain, and it impacts positively on their attitudes. Many of them have also been able to find jobs as a result," she said. In addition to the literacy and computer skills the youngsters gain, the programme provides linkages to entrepreneurial and job placement opportunities, as well as skills training through the HEART Trust/National Training Agency. Launched in 2004, the VPA is a network of government, non-governmental and community-based organisations, private, international and inter-governmental agencies working together to create a violence-free Jamaica.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
Community empowerment: Top Mountain shows the way
Workers preparing Top Juice, manufactured by Top Mountain Limited. Left to right are: Charmaine Richards, Norma Dehaney and Twana Lee-Brown.
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op Mountain Limited, a communitybased income generating enterprise located in St. Catherine, has given residents hope, by using resources that once go to waste as a means of economic empowerment. Established three years ago from a 2001 grant of over $300,000 from the Social and Economic Support Programme (SESP), and a 2007 US$88,000 donation from the Japanese Government, it produces fruit juices from mangoes that once rot on the ground during midyear. "The Member of Parliament at the time (2001), Alethia Barker, gave the community $380,000 (out of her SESP allocation) and Mrs. Nelly Richards, a social worker in the area, was given the task of identifying what we could do with the money," states salesman at Top Mountain Limited, Aston Thomas. "In her proposal, she indicated that the community produces mangoes, naseberry, pineapple and other fruits, and that we could build a processing plant and process the fruits. RADA came in and helped with sourcing the additional funds that were needed. They provided the training and, with a piece of land made available by Dr. Rosalee Hamilton, whose father was a community person, we got started," Mr. Thomas explains. Three years later, the project has a staff of seven, supplies outlets in three other parishes and several towns in St. Catherine, assisted with the recent refurbishing of a community meeting place, donated funds to the patching of roads in the community, and gave a grant of $50,000 to students in the community who passed their Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT). "We are united in the community. We have our hitches, but when it comes to working together, or uniting together to achieve for the community, we don't fallback, we just do our thing," Mr. Thomas says. At the inking of the agreement for the funding of the project, at the Japanese embassy in Kingston, in February 2007, then Ambassador
to Jamaica, His Excellency Mashiro Obata, said that the lot of the Top Mountain citizen should improve with the project. "The vision of this community self-help effort is not unfamiliar to the Jamaican landscape, and is not the first one to be funded by the Government of Japan. The simplicity of the project is its strength, and it pronounces that a community should see opportunities in its natural resources," he remarked. Office Assistant at the facility, Tracy-Ann Whittle, who received on the job training at the factory, shared that she was very curious about making juices, originally, and now is able to make all kinds. "We have survived here because of team spirit, honesty and communicating with each other," she notes.
agency saw the untapped opportunities in the area. "They had a strong community organisation, and that made the effort much easier. We sent two persons to be trained at the Scientific Research Council (SRC) in making jams and jellies and juices. We offered training in post harvesting and we currently do follow up training to ensure that whatever new technology is available, can be passed on to them," she says. "This story is about what can happen. There are resources in every community, not just material resources, but the people themselves. It is amazing to know the talent and goodwill that exist in communities. It is just for us to pull the strengths that they have and give support, so that they can utilise their full potential," she adds.
Manager of the project, Zephaniah Kellyman, notes that after the citizen's association, under the leadership of past President Robert Brown, was able to get a long stretch of the community's road rehabilitated by JSIF, it opened eyes to greater things that could be achieved through community activism. "Mr. Brown has started this project, and we are going to continue it and pass it on to generations. We want to get the farmers to produce and supply us," she says. "This factory has given hope, we want more people to be empowered from what goes on here. So, even though we might not be able to employ many people, we want them to supply us with their produce, or buy from us and make a living from that," he shares. Garfield Angus
Spectrum Systems Ltd. hosts roofing seminar
Peter Davis, Roofing Contractor (left) makes a point to Andrew Stanigar, Managing Director of Spectrum Systems Ltd. at a one-day seminar hosted by the company recently to familiarize contractors with the IKO roofing system. Spectrum Systems Ltd. is a major supplier of roofing materials to the Jamaican construction industry.
Staff at Top Mountain Limited, a community income generating project, in rural St. Catherine, pose with one of their longstanding customers, Joseph Nelson (third left, back row).
Joseph Nelson, who supplies juices to schools and other establishments in rural St. Catherine, said before Top Juice, he had to travel miles to town centres to get the products. "I have continued to do business here, because I have developed a relationship with the staff, and I have had good comments on the juice from consumers, and my supply is reliable," he states. Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) Manager for the Social Services and Home Economics Unit, Lorna Gooden, states that it was in 2000, while one of the project managers, Kiddo Smith, was assisting the community with a multi-million dollar road project funded by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF), that her
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ollowing last month's devastating earthquake in Haiti, increased attention is now being focused on the local construction industry to ensure that practices and materials being used are up to international standards. With this in mind, Spectrum Systems Ltd., a leading local supplier of roofing materials, recently hosted a one-day seminar for building contractors to familarise them with the IKO fiberglass roofing system. IKO Industries Inc. a Canadian company
Angela Escobar, General Manager of the export division of IKO Industries Inc. of Canada, was the main presenter at the seminar.
with over 50 years experience in the roofing industry, manufactures fiberglass shingles that combine extreme strength and durability with light weight and ease of installation. These shingles are suitable for any climate and are adaptable to a wide range of architectural styles. They are easy to maintain and with proper installation, provides security against hurricane-force winds. The main presenter at the seminar was Angela Escobar, General Manager of the export division of IKO Industries Inc.
Mr. Francis Hill, Managing Director of roofing contractors Moonwind Ltd., one of a number of contractors from across the island who attended the seminar.
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
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Computer software transforming upgraded Jamaican high schools
Sheldon Clayton, Visual Arts teacher at the Mile Gully High School in Manchester, enters data using the Complete SMS.
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ive rural high schools across Jamaica have been provided with new school management computer software to help improve student performance. “It is well established in education literature that monitoring and feedback is the single most effective strategy for improving student performance,” says Dawn Sewell- Lawson, Assistant Programme Manager for
the Centres of Excellence project “and the introduction of this software is the project's intervention in boosting the capacity of the school and its leadership to carry out monitoring and feedback.” The software, called the Complete SMS, produces a range of data, which teachers and school administrators can use to track trends in student performance, determine their
Mrs. W. Chin-quee using the Complete SMS to create a class profile in order to assess her student’s overall performance
progress, and to develop necessary corrective strategies, Mrs. SewellLawson said. It was introduced in five of the six upgraded high schools participating in the Mutual Building Societies Foundation's (MBSF) Centres of Excellence project last year. The MBSF is a joint initiative of the Jamaica National Building Society and the Victoria Mutual Building Society. “The students' academic performance can be analysed over time and any change can be quickly identified,” she explained. Similarly teachers' success rate can be tracked using the average performance of the class as an indicator. Another very innovative feature of the system, which will be implemented at a later date, is that it can allow students, using their identification numbers, to monitor their own performance. This will help students to take personal responsibility for their education, Mrs. Sewell- Lawson commented. The system allows teachers to create a class profile by selecting indicators such as average performance,
gender, behavioural incidence, learning styles and average attendance. Mrs. Sewell-Lawson pointed out that the software can also generate identification cards, report cards, school vouchers, receipts and transcripts. Complete SMS can store photographs and individual profiles of students, detailing their academic performance, as well as catalogue the involvement of the child's parents in school activities. Many students in upgraded high schools continue to perform poorly in core subjects and teachers struggle to maintain discipline. According to the Planning Institute Jamaica's Economic and Policy Analysis, Research and Statistics Unit, although there was marked improvement in the performance of some new and upgraded high schools, the average performance in subjects entered in the 2009 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations remained significantly lower than that of traditional high schools. Only an average 59% of subject entries received passing grades in new and upgraded schools compared with 81% in traditional high schools. As much as 30% of students from the new and upgrad-
Reading specialist at the Mile Gully High School, Manchester, Loytoya Henry, shows off a student report card produced using the Complete SMS.
ed schools failed to attain passing grades in half of their subject entries. Dr. Cynthia Anderson, Principal of the McGrath High School in Linstead, St. Catherine attests that
Fontana Px closes uptown branch T he uptown branch of Fontana Pharmacy, which has been a fixture in the town of Mandeville for decades, was closed without fanfare on March 1. Located across from the Mandeville market, it was one of two branches of the well-known business that served the town. Reports are that the branch was closed in the face of the downturn
proper use of the software has begun to improve administration efficiency. She pointed out that since receiving the software teachers have been engaged in ongoing training. With the support being provided under the Centres Excellence project, data can be accessed easily and used more effectively. “It's much easier for the teachers now, as they no longer have to walk around with 200 reports,” Dr. Anderson said. She added that the teachers were also producing timely and more accurate reports. “Class averages have also been improving since the increased use of the software, as many of educators have been able to use the data to match their teaching strategies with the learning styles and abilities of the students,” Dr. Anderson said. “They are also able to provide students with more useful feedback on their performance in particular areas to help them understand what they can do to improve their grades,” she adds. Llewelyn Bailey, Programme Manager of MBSF, says the training to increase the use of the software will strengthen efforts to develop an evidence-based approach to teaching and learning in schools.
in the economic climate of the parish of Manchester, coupled with an increase in the cost of rent for the premises. Some members of staff were absorbed within the remaining branch but several lost their jobs due to the closure. All customers are now being serviced from the main branch of the pharmacy, located in the Manchester Shopping Centre.
Above: The chained doors that greeted staff and customers on March 1. Left: Workmen removing fixtures from the closed pharmacy.
“Our schools need to be able to have more reliable data so that educators can accurately develop intervention programmes to address student needs,” he concluded.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
Jamaica's best for Expo 2010 In the meantime, he pointed to the need for the manufacturing sector to be modernised with a focus on increased scientific research. He stated that the Ministry will be strengthening efforts in this area, with expanded responsibilities for the Scientific Research Council to drive innovation. He noted however that even with innovation, there needs to be visionary entrepreneurs willing to take on a good idea and start from scratch.
Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, addresses the media launch of Expo Jamaica 2010
Marketing and Energy Services Manager at the Jamaica Public Service Company, Jacky Simmonds (left), presents a sponsorship cheque to cover the cost of electricity for Expo Jamaica 2010, to Treasurer of the Jamaica Manufacturers' Association (JMA), Jodie Summerbell.
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ocal manufacturers will get a chance to market their goods and services, and network with international buyers at EXPO Jamaica 2010, which will be held from June 17 to 20 at the National Arena in Kingston. The biennial event, hailed as the Caribbean's premiere trade show, is being staged under the theme: 'Brand Jamaica to the World!' and will feature more than 2,000 Jamaican products and over 200 booths. It is being co-hosted by the Jamaica Manufacturers' Association (JMA), Jamaica Exporters' Association (JEA) and the Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI). At the media launch held on March 16 at the JMA's office downtown Kingston, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, commended the organisers of the trade show, noting that it provides the opportunity to showcase the best of Jamaica's manufacturing sector to the word. Pledging the Ministry's full support for the event, he said that in carving out a niche for Jamaican products in the international marketplace, there needs to be one cohesive and recognisable Jamaican brand.
Minister Samuda (right), consults with President of the Jamaica Manufacturers' Association, Omar Azan, during the media launch of Expo Jamaica 2010 at the JMA's downtown Kingston office on March 16.
President of the JMA, Omar Azan, in his remarks, noted that the upcoming expo is a "celebration of the best of Jamaica, and comes at a time when the world has been reeling from the economic recession and manufacturers and exporters have not gone unscathed". He disclosed that the sector, which comprises only 29.7 per cent of the economy, has been performing far below its targets and that its growth potential has been largely untapped. Mr. Azan
bemoaned the fact that Jamaica spends approximately $5.7 billion per week on imports and said that Jamaica must start seeking economic independence through production. "The picture is clear that opportunities in manufacturing abound, if we have the right approach and commitment in getting production moving at a faster pace. The future of manufacturing is bright because the sector is resilient as it competes on the local and international stage against a tough external and internal environment," he stated. EXPO Jamaica 2010 will feature a diverse range of products ranging from art and craft to fashion, information technology, packaging and labeling. There will be a special opening and buyers' reception on June 17, starting at 5:00 p.m., with the event being open to the public on June 18 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and June 19 and 20 from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Tate & Lyle gets a taste forJamaican sugar again
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nited Kingdom (UK)-based sugar processing and marketing company Tate and Lyle has expressed "very strong" interest in once again investing in Jamaica's sugar industry, Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Audley Shaw has said. He made the revelation while speaking at the Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI) UK-Jamaica Investment Forum at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in London recently. Mr. Shaw, who was in London attending a series of investment and finance events, said he had an initial meeting with representatives of Tate and Lyle and will be holding follow-up meetings soon to advance discussions. Minister Shaw said that the interest from Tate and Lyle comes against the background of a European revival of interest in cane sugar. He said any partnership struck with the company, which has been involved in the processing and marketing of sugar for over 200 years, would be an exciting one.
Duckenfield in St. Thomas
"They are looking at some kind of partnership with local entities. They have been the final processors and marketers of much of the sugar that comes from Jamaica. I think it would be very interesting as they would bring to the investment their own technology and their marketing expertise, which would work well with local investors in Jamaica," he stated. He said any proposal by Tate and Lyle would be considered within the overall competitive arena when the final decision is to be made. "We have interest from and we have been doing business with Eridania in Italy and strong private sector entities in Jamaica. We welcome the interest from Tate and Lyle as they have had a long history with Jamaica's sugar industry and when we get to the appropriate stage they will be considered among all others," the Minister stated. Tate and Lyle operated a number of sugar estates in Jamaica for decades but withdrew from the local industry in the 1980's. The company returned in the 1990's to manage Governmentowned sugar factories, before pulling out of the country once again. Declaring that "sugar in Jamaica is not dead," Minister Shaw said that the local sugar industry offers exciting prospects for the future and it is encouraging to see the major players in the industry showing renewed interest. He said the two of the five government-owned sugar estates that have already been divested have been showing strong improvements and transformation under new private sector ownership. He expressed confidence that with the interest being shown by Tate and Lyle and others, the sugar industry would return to profitability and once again becoming a major
source of jobs and a leading foreign exchange earner for the Jamaican economy. Long Pond in Trelawny and Duckenfield in St. Thomas are now in private hands and the Government is eagerly seeking to ink deals for the divestment of Frome in Westmoreland; Monymusk in Clarendon, and Bernard Lodge in St. Catherine.
Senior citizen firsts U.S. Embassy's online application form T
he first visa applicant to successfully use the U.S. Embassy's new paperless application form was an eighty-four-year-old grandmother whose granddaughter assisted her with the process. Having never applied for a visa before, the grandmother qualified for a visa and walked away with a swift approval on Thursday, March 18, and a good feeling about the new online form DS-160 for visa applications. The new online form is now available on the embassy's website at www.kingston.usembassy.gov. While the embassy will continue to accept paper application forms for the next few days, as of Wednesday, March 24, 2010, all applicants will be required to have completed the online DS-160 application form prior to their interview. tions on the complete visa application process.
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 15 - 28, 2010
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Preventing Identity Theft Part of the battle of preventing identity theft is recognizing how this personal information is stolen and from where. Your Computer
U.S, but globally (Jamaica as well). Incidents of credit card skimming have risen 45 percent globally and there have been several reported incidents in Kingston. One victim recently reported that his credit card had been used to purchase goods from Thailand, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Malacca totaling $7000, while he was traveling in Europe.
Most casual PC users are unaware of how dangerous the Internet can be. Without the proper knowledge and protection, you could be just a few simple keystrokes and clicks away from having your identity stolen. Here are some tips for preventing online identity theft. * Use anti-spyware and anti-virus software. * Be wary of online shopping sites. Only shop at sites that you trust and are secure. See http://www.ftv.gov/onlineshopping/ for more information. * Don't get baited by phishers. * Encrypt your wireless internet connection. * Erase your hard drive if you ever sell, donate, or otherwise give away your computer. Your Trash One man's trash is another man's treasure. Nothing could be closer to the truth when it comes to discarding personal documents. If it has your ID, bank account, credit card, or any other identifying number on it, remember to shred it before you trash it. Crosscut shredders are the best, lower tier models tend to leave the information in such a way that it can be re-created. Once you have your shredder, here is a list of items you should always shred when it comes time to discard them.
How They Do It: Skimmers are quite a creative bunch--and since the skimming devices are so small and easy to hide, it is not difficult for them to skim your card without you noticing. The following are some examples of how your cards can be skimmed: Use your ATM card wisely. If an ATM must be used, it should be accessed only during the business day at large protected facilities, preferably inside commercial establishments, rather than at glass-enclosed, highly visible street ATMs. Guard your checkbook. Since your checks come with your name, address, and bank account number right on them, you should guard these with care. Don't leave your checkbook in an unsecured place or your car. If stolen, the thief could write a fraudulent check or even break into your bank account. If you ever notice that any of your checks are missing, contact the bank immediately. Select strong passwords. Avoid using words or numbers that other people can easily guess. Using your birth date or last four digits of your social security number are too obvious to use as passwords or PINs. Secure personal information in your own home. Just because you're in your home doesn't mean you're safe. If you have roommates or employ outside help, such as a housekeeper, avoid leaving your mail lying about and secure your privacy when making any personal phone calls.
* Bank statements * Credit card statements * ATM receipts * Canceled or voided checks * Expired passports, visas, and credit cards * Tax forms * Bills * Pay stubs Safeguarding Your Personal Information Keeping your personal information from falling into the wrong hands will help you from becoming another identity theft victim. Immediately report lost or stolen cards. As soon as you discover that one of your credit cards or debit cards is missing, contact the issuing bank immediately, even if you think you may find it in a day or two. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Most banks will immediately cancel your missing card and reimburse you for any fraudulent charges. In most cases, you'll receive a new card in the mail within a week. Don't keep your TRN card in your wallet. Sadly, this is a very common mistake. It may be convenient to keep your TRN or social security card in your wallet. That is, until your wallet is lost or stolen, in which case the thief now has everything he needs to steal your identity name and address from your driver's license, credit cards and debit cards, and TRN number. Keep your card in a safe place in your residence. Beware phone solicitations. It is easy for any con artist to pretend he is a legitimate business over the phone. So always think twice before providing your credit card over the phone. If you do provide your credit card number over the phone, be certain that you were the one initiating the call. Better yet, opt out of these telemarketing calls entirely. Check your bill and bank statements often. If you have online access to your accounts, check them regularly. Be on the lookout for any fraudulent charges. If you notice something suspicious, contact your bank immediately.
Know who else has your information. Inquire about personal security procedures at your work, doctor's office, university, or any other institution that keeps a record of your personal information. Find out who has access to your personal information, and verify that it is being handled securely. Remember: Personal information of yours should be kept private. While some personal information is inevitably going to be made public, there are some items with high sensitivity that should never be made public. See the table below for details.
Skimming at restaurants. How many times have you given the server your credit card to pay the bill and never thought twice about it when they walked away to complete your transaction? You may be surprised to know that most skimming incidents occur at a restaurant where a server is carrying a skimming device in their apron or somewhere close by. Your card is scanned twice, once for the transaction that you expected and another in the skimming device to capture your credit card information for further use. An example of such an incident occurred in Charlotte, North Carolina in which two wait staff from a chain restaurant were accused of skimming more than 650 credit card numbers from unsuspecting patrons and selling them for US$25 each. ATM machines. Typically, a "card trapping" device is inserted into the ATM card slot. This trap scans the card and stores its associated information or just traps the card and doesn't return it to the owner. There is no cash dispensed in either case and the crooks retrieve the cards and information at a later time. ATM skimming has been a problem worldwide; with estimates, that 1 in every 28 ATM machines had been equipped with skimmers from thieves. Skimming by store clerks. A very common form of skimming involves store clerks skimming your credit card when you make a purchase. The clerk scans your card twice, once for your expected transaction and another in a skimmer for later retrieval. There have also been reports of clerks skimming driver's licenses when customers are writing checks and supply the license for verification.
Skimming Skimming is a hi-tech method by which thieves capture your personal or account information from your credit card, ATM card, driver's license, or even passport. An electronic device used to capture this information is called a “skimmer,� and can be purchased online for under US$50.00. Your card is swiped through the skimmer and the information contained in the magnetic strip on the card is then read into and stored on the device and can be downloaded to a computer. Skimming is predominantly a tactic used to perpetuate credit card fraud--but is also a tactic that is gaining in popularity amongst identity thieves. Skimming is a problem, not just in the
To make counterfeit cards. Once the information from your credit card, driver's license or passport is captured, it can be used to make duplicates. Duplicates are very valuable as they can be used to further perpetuate credit card fraud or identity theft. Next Steps Now that you have an understanding of what skimming is and how it can be used to commit credit card fraud or identity theft, your next step should be to understand how to prevent it. You now know that skimming is an effective tactic for criminals to perpetrate identity theft and other crimes of fraud. You also likely realize that it can take 30 - 60 days before you would even know that you were a victim, leaving the criminal plenty of time to get away. Even worse, statistics show that the longer it takes to discover identity theft and account fraud, the greater the financial impact to the victim. Protecting Yourself Against Skimming: Closely monitor anyone who handles your card. To protect against skimming, closely watch anyone that you give your card to for processing, such as a waiter, clerk, attendant, etc. If at all possible, do not let them out of your sight. If a clerk makes a hard copy, retrieve the carbons. Keep low-limit credit cards. Keeping a low limit on your credit cards restricts the amount of money that thieves can steal. Although not exactly a prevention tactic, it will help if you fall victim. Sign all credit cards. Sign all credit cards immediately upon your receipt of them. You can also write "Check ID" so that the clerk, if they actually read the back, will ask for ID for verification during a transaction. Cancel credit cards that you do not use. It is important to cancel all credit cards that you do not use and to monitor the ones that you do use. Be aware of your surroundings. The first step to prevent skimming is understanding what is going on around you. When at an ATM cover the key pad when entering your pin. Prior to inserting your ATM card, check the ATM card reader to make sure that it looks appropriate and is not altered.
Item Sensitivity Full Name Low Address Low Phone Number Low Date of Birth Medium Birthplace Medium Mother's Maiden Name Medium Social Security Number High Bank Account Number High Credit Card Number High PIN or Password High Protecting yourself against identity theft involves nothing more than protecting this personal information, particularly the high sensitivity items. Anyone with knowledge of just one of your high sensitivity items can do a lot of damage.
Credit Card Fraud. The information that is obtained can be used to order products and services online sometimes for several weeks until the unsuspecting victim is made aware, giving the thieves plenty of time to run up some bills.
Take your receipts. Do not leave receipts at ATM's, teller windows, gasoline pumps, or with a clerk.
Devices implanted in card payment terminals. Skimming is becoming more sophisticated where thieves are rigging card payment terminals with electronic equipment to capture the card information. The recorded card numbers are stored in an additional implanted chip and thieves return at a later time for retrieval. Once a skimmer captures the information on your credit card, ATM card, driver's license, or passport it can be used in a variety of ways. Thieves will sell your information. Many times the criminals skimming your information into the devices are not the same criminals that will use that information to commit identity theft or other crimes of fraud. The "skimmers" will sell your information to other criminals--typically for about US$25-US$75 each.
Protect your PIN. Some people make it easy for criminals by writing the PIN to their Credit or ATM card on something that they keep in their wallet, or even worse-writing the PIN on back of the card itself! Please don't do it. Commit the PIN to memory as it is very obvious that a thief having the card and the PIN is not going to work out well for you. Conclusion Credit cards, ATM cards, driver's licenses and passports are parts of our everyday life. We need them and in many ways, can't live without them. However, all experts agree that skimming is on the rise and is a favored tactic with criminals committing identity theft and other crimes of fraud. It is difficult to prevent skimming, but with some common sense you can lessen your chances of falling victim. Thanks to Emma Lewis, US Embassy
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 15 - 28, 2010
National competition transforming communities By: Elaine Hartman Reckord
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resident of the Glengoffe Community Development Committee, Roosevelt Lawrence, examines a chest of drawers crafted by residents. Glengoffe won the inaugural National Best Community Competition and Programme (NBCCP) in 2007.
The National Best Community Competition and Programme (NBCCP), organised through the Cabinet Office, is transforming communities, by providing them with cash incentives and technical support to undertake projects and programmes and uniting residents around the development of the areas in which they live. With a top prize of $2 million plus another $350,000 in sectional awards up for grabs, Chairperson of the NBCCP, Mrs. Jacqueline daCosta revealed that the communities have been putting the money to good use. "Many of them have been using their money to set up homework centres and community computer centres for adults and children. All the money they win, they have to spend on community projects and they do an amazing variety of things," she says. She cites the Beeston Springs CDC in Westmoreland, which placed third in 2007, and used the prize money to develop a water system utlising the community spring. She notes that some communities have obtained additional support to help with small businesses or farming. They are also undertaking beautification and clean-up of schools,
parks, roads, and historical sites. Wood carvings produced by residents of Glengoffe in St. Catherine. Glengoffe won the inaugural National Best Community Competition and Programme (NBCCP) in 2007. Empowering Communities Stating that the competition has also served to empower residents, Mrs. daCosta says that "people are realizing that they do not have to sit and wait for somebody to do something for them and that if they do things for themselves they will get help". "It pulls the people together. It helps with crime because people now get to know each other, especially some of the smaller places. It builds a lot of community spirit and people are getting together to do things that is to the benefit to the community," she notes further. Glengoffe in St. Catherine, which topped 180 communities to win the 2007 contest, used the $2 million plus $150,000 for winning three sectional categories, to undertake a number of projects, including the purchase of land for the establishment of a human resource complex. Land preparation work has begun for the project, which will include recreational and training facilities, where persons could make and sell craft items.
Jiggi-jappa hats produced by residents of Glengoffe in St. Catherine from straw grown in the area. The residents also make mats and bags from the straw. Glengoffe won the inaugural National Best Community Competition and Programme (NBCCP) in 2007. Additionally, the local post office and the police station got a facelift, with the buildings repainted and the surroundings beautified with trees and decorated stones. Work was also carried out at the Glengoffe High School, where about 100 coconut plants and other fruit trees
were planted. President of the Glengoffe Community Development Committee (CDC), Mr. Roosevelt Lawrence, said that the community has collaborated with the Department of Education at the University of the West Indies and the Ministry of Education to undertake a project to improve attendance at the Cassava River Primary School, which is doing well. "We had to do a project to attract students to come out. That project is to provide meals for the students. We used chickens. Our contribution was to build the chicken houses, assist in getting the materials and the Department of Education at the university gave us $300,000. It is going very well," he informs.
2010 Competition to Launch in April The 2010 staging of the completion will get underway next month, with more than 230 communities to vie for honours. Communities will be judged at the parish and national levels over a three-month period, with prizes awarded for Best Kept Community Facilities, Youth Development, Most Beautiful Community, Most Improved Agricultural Practices, Best Community Spirit and Selfreliance, Best Kept Educational Institution, and Best Cultural and Heritage Programmes. Mrs. daCosta, who is the brainchild behind the contest, says that one of the challenges is finding judges and has appealed for persons "who have the country's interest at heart" to come forward and volunteer. Orientation sessions will be organised by the Social Development Commission (SDC), the main partner of the NBCCP, for the volunteer judges. Interested persons can contact any office of the SDC in Jamaica or email them at bestcommunitiesjamaica@gmail.com.
The programme is also seeking additional sponsorship for training, project planning, mentoring/counselling and other types of assistance provided to the communities. The chairperson lauded the work of a number of organisations, private and public sector individuals that have been supporting the competition over the years. She informs that last year, trophies and 126 prizes valued at just over $16 million, ranging from the first prize of $2 million to $50,000 for parish prizes, were awarded. Among the top sponsors is Digicel Foundation, which provides annual cash prizes of $10 million as well as technical support. Other partners include the Jamaica Social Investment Fund, Tourism Enhancement Fund, Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund, Jamaica National Building Society, Development Bank of Jamaica, New Era Homes, Red Stripe, Caymanas Track Limited, Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ) and the Bank of Nova Scotia Foundation. Additionally, a variety of other companies, government agencies and individuals have made contributions to assist with the hosting of awards ceremonies held to announce winners of the competition. Mrs. daCosta is hoping that more communities and organisations will get involved in the NBCCP which will help to improve the lives of people by providing meaningful opportunities to meet their most pressing needs, including job creation. The NBCCP seeks to encourage local governance, recognise community self-reliance and self-help activities and capabilities, while seeking to establish partnerships between communities and those who have technical, professional, spiritual, educational and financial capabilities. It is organised in conjunction with several public and private sector organisations, nonGovernmental Organisations (NGOs), professional, educational and religious institutions, civic society and community representatives. Any of the 785 communities represented by CDCs in Jamaica, as identified by the SDC can participate. They are encouraged to approach funding institutions, private sector businesses and public sector organisations to assist them with grant funding or other forms of assistance to help with various types of projects and programmes in their communities.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 15 - 28, 2010
Men Who Cook returns April 25
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Paul Simpson of Guardian Asset Management dishes up portions of his stew pork to anxious patrions at last year’s 10th anniversary of Men Who Cook
en Who Cook, the annual gastronomical event sponsored by the Mandeville Lions Club, returns on April 25 to the Alpart Farms on Spur Tree Hill. As is usually the case, a number of celebrity men will display their culinary skills, by creating a number of signature dishes all in the name of charity, with funds generated from ticket sales going to a number of Lions Club projects in the parish. Several new faces like local artist Mark Cameron will join perennial favorites including Baron Hall Farm's John O. Minott, Evrol 'Blackie' Christian of Little Ochie fame; Dr. Peter Wellington with his bar-b-que chicken and of course Newton Coote's suckling pig in friendly rivalry. Last year, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton was voted the best chef for his cassava-inspired offerings. This year marks the eleventh year of the event, which runs from 12 noon to 5:00 pm and will feature entertainment from Lloyd Lovindeer and the Alpha Boys Band. There will be lots of attractions for the kids so come on out and make it a family affair.
Caribbean food and drink for culinary tour of UK Mr. Derek Morrison, told JIS News that the initiative, which was started in the summer of 2009, features cooking demonstrations and the sampling of a range of Jamaican and Caribbean foods. The event is hosted on the compound of branches of four of the major supermarket chains in the UK as well as on selected high streets across London, Birmingham and Manchester. "Last year it was a wonderful success. Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Eighty per cent of the Michael Stern (second left), shares a light moment with (from left): Jamaica people who sampled and Trade and Invest's European Regional Manager, Mr. Laurence Jones; Tanikie McClarthy of the Ministry and General Manager of J Wray & Nephew UK Ltd. visited the trailer were Ms. Diane Edwards, at a reception held at the Jamaican High Commission, in not of Caribbean herLondon, to launch the 2010 Caribbean Cuisine Tour. itage, so we're helping to unique programme to take introduce people to Caribbean goods and taste," Caribbean food and drink on a culi- Mr. Morrison said. nary tour across the United He said last year's tour visited some 23 venKingdom (UK), was launched in London on ues and involved two of the major supermarket March 9 at a special ceremony, held at the chains, Asda and Tesco. This year the tour will Jamaican High Commission. visit more than 30 venues and include two other Chief Executive Officer of World Foods and major supermarket chains, Sainsbury and founder of the event, Morrison's.
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Chief Executive Officer of World Foods, Mr. Derek Morris, talks about the 2010 Caribbean Cuisine Tour, which will visit several locations throughout the United Kingdom from May to August 2010.
Mr. Morrison, whose parents are from St. Elizabeth, said he decided to initiate a programme to seriously market Jamaican and Caribbean foods and drinks following a 25-year career in marketing. He said the goal was to provide a top class service to raise the profile and prestige of Caribbean foods in the UK and Europe. Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, was the special guest at the launch. Mr. Stern was in London for the second Jamaica/United Kingdom Investment Forum, held on Thursday, March 11. Mr. Stern expressed support for the pro-
gramme, noting that it was one way to introduce UK residents to Caribbean food and increase awareness of the rich diversity that it offers. According to Mr. Stern, the tour was an excellent marketing tool that will enhance the drive to increase the market for Jamaican and Caribbean products in Europe. This year the Caribbean Cuisine Tour will start in Sydenham, in London, on May 28 and will end on August 21 with a special Caribbean food and drink festival in Islington, London. Mr. Morrison said this year the cuisine tour will also raise funds to support the Haiti earthquake appeal.
Minister Stern speaks to St. Kitts and Nevis High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. James Williams at the reception.
Hard Working Bees crowd a syrup bottle on a sno-cone cart near the Mandeville bus park
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 15 - 28, 2010
Reggae Sumfest returns July18-24
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he 17th hosting of Reggae Sumfest, which is dubbed the "greatest reggae festival on earth", will take place at the Catherine Hall centre in Montego Bay, from July 18-24, 2010. Promoters of the annual event, basking in the afterglow of success following last year's record-breaking staging where a line-up included acts like Beenie Man, Elephant Man, Spice, Busy Signal, Macka Diamond Kiprich, Ne-Yo, Jazmine Sullivan, Toni Braxton, Queen Ifrica, Etana, Tarrus Riley and Jah Cure, brought
out what is said to be the biggest crowds of its long history. The line-up for this year's festival has not yet been announced, but music fans are looking forward to another week of thrilling performances. Reggae Sumfest 2010 kicks off on Sunday, July 18 with a beach party then moves to the main concert grounds on Thursday, July 22, for the popular Dancehall Night, followed by two International Nights.
What would you do for love?
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n this the era of fleeting attraction and casual sex, we should all take inspiration from the story of Mizzy and Tunkey, whom according to legend, gave Lover's Leap in St. Elizabeth its name. Found at Yardley Chase, near Southfield, this beautiful location with its spectacular view, emerges where the Santa Cruz mountains come to an abrupt end on Jamaica's south coast, resulting a 1,700ft vertical drop down to the gentle waves of Cutlass Bay. The lookout provides a fantastic view out to the Caribbean Sea and on a clear day, sea and sky merges into one endless vista. How high up are you? Well you can look down on flying birds, low hanging clouds and on some days, even small aircraft whizzing by. The story of Lovers Leap stems from two slaves in the 18th century who were lovers; Mizzy and
Tunkey. Legend has it that their master "Chardley" took a liking to the girl Mizzy and, in a bid to have her for himself, arranged for her lover Tunkey to be sold to another estate. Realising that they would be separated, the pair fled to avoid this fate but were eventually tracked to the edge of this steep cliff. Rather than face the prospect of being caught and punished, the pair opted to pledge their undying love for each other them both jumped to their deaths. But here is where the story gets a little crazy. An old woman claimed she saw them jump, but said they did not die. Instead they were caught by the moon in a shining net and pulled up into the sky, were they were last seen holding hands as the moon descended into the sea. Crazy or not, it sure is a beautiful tale of love and devotion. Now if only I could convince my girlfriend to start a new legend‌.
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 15 - 28, 2010
Thirsty land.
Water drums dot a pepper cultivation in Lititz, St. Elizabeth. The parish is currently suffering an extended period of drought which is causing farmers to expend thousands of dollars weekly to purchase water for irrigation.
4-H Clubs in Manchester showcase their skills
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Farmers to access modern equipment The equipment, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the European Union (EU), was handed over on March 9 at the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, at Hope, in Kingston. The items include laptop computers, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton (left), pres- bush cutters, generaents Extension Officer, Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), Miss Shernette Spencer with a laptop, one of several pieces of equipment which tors, mist sprayers were handed over to the Ministry, in Kingston on March 9, by the United States and water pumps. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the European Union (EU). Minister o4f Looking on (from second left) are: Representative in Jamaica, Belize and Agriculture and Bahamas for the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Dr. Dunstan Campbell and Director of the Office of Sustainable Development, USAID, Mr. Fisheries, Hon. Dr. Ken Lyvers. Christopher Tufton, quipment valued at some $50 mil- who spoke at the ceremony, said that the lion has been made available to handing over of the equipment is a journey farmers, as part of measures to kick towards making agriculture more productive. start the mechanisation process within the "It is an attempt to apply ourselves using agricultural sector. the intellectual capacity, using the tools that are necessary to understand how to grow crops better. Farmers will only truly benefit from agriculture if they embrace, support and practise what is the best technical approach," Dr. Tufton said.
Dr. Tufton explained that the Rural Authority Agricultural Development (RADA), would put in place a leasing programme where the equipment would be made available to farmers. In his remarks, Director of the Office of Sustainable Development at the USAID, Mr. Ken Lyvers, said his organisation was pleased to be partnering with the Ministry to encourage and promote technological advancement within the agricultural sector.
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Mr. Delroy Smith, a farmer from Dukenfield, St. Thomas, displays a mist blower, part of an assortment of equipment, which was donated by the United States Agency for International development (USAID) and the European Union (EU).
Will Increase Competition The Minister pointed out that the use of the equipment in the agricultural sector would make farmers more competitive. "We are saying to you that this is the smarter way to do it, and this is the technology that exists, and it is incumbent on us to embrace the philosophy that agriculture is a business and should be operated on the fundamental principles of business," Dr. Tufton emphasised. The Minister said farmers may be familiar with some of the equipment, but many of them have not had the opportunity to benefit from their utilisation. "Our farmers have to embrace the technology if the technology is to work. The provision is a means to an end. The end will come when we see the yields improving with the engagement and utilisation of the equipment," he added.
Dr. Tufton (left), examines a soil testing kit, one of several pieces of equipment which were handed over by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the European Union (EU). Looking on is Senior Director for Technology and Training at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), Mr. Phillip Chung.
Rain Hervesting Meanwhile, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has provided funding totalling US$216,000 over the next 18 months, for the development of a rain harvesting project in St. Elizabeth. "The objective of this project is to introduce technology for the capture, storage and use of water and this technology is not only going to be used in St. Elizabeth. Once it is demonstrated, it will be available to the rest of Jamaica," Representative in Jamaica, Belize and Bahamas for the FAO, Dr. Dunstan Campbell, pointed out.
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embers of 4-H clubs in early childhood institutions, primary and high schools in Manchester, showed off their skills in various aspects of home economics and agriculture, as the Manchester 4-H Clubs recently staged another successful Parish Achievement Day. Under the theme: 'Youth Involvement in Local Food Production For Sustainability', the event which was held at the Caribbean Christian Centre for the Deaf in Knockpatrick, saw the young people competing in plant budding and grafting, public speaking, goat rearing, towel folding, table setting, cake baking and decorating, seed identification and agro-processing among other areas. Medals and awards were presented to the top three finishers in the various categories, with the coveted Boy and Girl of the Year titles going respectively to Kevaugh Bonner, 2009 recipient of the Prime Minister Award for Excellence in Agriculture and the President of the Manchester 4-H Clubs Junior Leaders' Association and Natasha Smith, Vice President of the Manchester 4-H Clubs Junior Leaders' Association. Youth Empowerment Officer at the National Centre for Youth Development, Keitho Nembhard, who was the guest speaker, pointed to the need for more young people to get into farming to move the country forward. He also encouraged the students to be consistently active in the 4-H Movement. "I am asking you all not only to be involved when Achievement Day comes around but be an active participant in the progress of the 4-H so that you can benefit, so that the community in which you live can benefit, so that the club can benefit and in the end, your country will benefit from it," he pleaded. The Manchester Achievement Day was part of an annual series organised by the Jamaica 4-H Clubs to showcase and highlight the work of members in the various parishes. The top participants at the parish level go on to compete in regional and national competitions.
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 15 - 28, 2010 12
St. Elizabeth agri. show scrapped again A
Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Agriculture and Member of Parliament for South West St. Elizabeth (left), and former President of the Jamaica Agriculture Society (JAS), Senator Norman Grant, admires a huge sweet potato at the St. Elizabeth Agriculture Show and Food Fest, held at the Essex Valley Show Ground in Gutters, St. Elizabeth on Labour Day, 2008. Also pictured is Mr. Gib Samuels, an executive member of the St. Elizabeth Branch Societies of the JAS.
fter months of preliminary planning and organization, a decision has been taken by the executive of the St. Elizabeth Branch Societies of the Jamaica Agriculture Society (JAS) to cancel this year's renewal of the parish agriculture show. This decision was taken in the face of the tremendous difficulty the organizing committee was facing in attracting funding for the event. This is the second consecutive year that the show will not be held and leaves scores of farmers in the parish as well as members of the public, many from surrounding parishes, sorely disappointed. According to Mr. Roy Morrison, President of the St. Elizabeth JAS, the show would have cost close to $2 million to put on, funds which would have had to be secured in advance to ensure that the organization not take on any debt from the show. The current economic conditions however made it extremely difficult to attract sponsors willing to buy into this important event to showcase the output of a parish long considered Jamaica's “Breadbasket”. But did drought conditions presently plaguing the parish play a role in the cancellation of the show? Not so, according to Mr. Morrison.
Citing recent growth trends in the agriculture sector, he made it clear that there was adequate produce being farmed in St. Elizabeth to make the show a success. The main problem he said, was the unavailability of funding to prepare the showground and cover other expenses that would be incurred in hosting the show. Financial support from the JAS and the Ministry of Agriculture was also not forthcoming, again with the downturn in the local economy footing the blame. The Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr. Christopher Tufton is also the Member of Parliament for South West St. Elizabeth. With the closure of St. Elizabeth's bauxite mining industry, agriculture has become the main productive sector of the parish. This year's agriculture show was expected to expose local farmers to new farming techniques and technology, inform about increased marketing opportunities and a number of recent developments in the financial sector targeted specifically to their needs. Mr. Morrison said that efforts are now being concentrated on ensuring that St. Elizabeth continues its winning ways at the annual Denbigh Agriculture Show, slated for Independence week in August.
Highlights of the 2008 St. Bess Agri. Show & Food Fest The Pepper community was extremely productive. St. Elizabeth JAS President, Roy Morrison Nadine Tufton, wife of the Agriculture (right) indicates something of interest to Minister, makes a purchase. Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton.
Getting up close and personal with a bee hive.
New Building was big on bammy.
One of the young ladies vying for the St. Elizabeth Farm Queen title.
Comma Pen took casava to the extreme.
“I need one of those,” says this lady.
The agriculture show was a family event.
Several primary, all-age and secondary schools also participated in the agriculture show and food fest.
A farmer collects screwwork powder from a representive of RADA.
Agriculture sector grows for 6th consecutive quarter M inister with responsibility for Information, Hon Daryl Vaz, has reported that the October- December, 2009 quarter saw the agricultural sector recording its sixth consecutive quarter of growth. Mr. Vaz noted the achievement was particularly significant, as the island was under persistent drought conditions for several months. The Minister, who was updating journalists on matters considered by Cabinet during its March 8 meeting,
said that areas of outstanding performance were - condiments, which grew by 63%; vegetables, by 40.6%; cereals, by 32.4%; yams, by 26.7%; and potatoes, by 23.5%. All parishes recorded expansion in production for the quarter, with the leading parishes being Portland, 160.9%; St Mary 92.1% and St Thomas 69%. Overall the sector grew by 13% over the last quarter of 2009 while domestic crop production for the entire year increased by 22.4%.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 15 - 28, 2010
The Auto Zone
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
MARCH 15 - 28, 2010
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Alpart moves to address dust nuisance
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lumina Partners of Jamaica (ALPART) has put measures in place to alleviate the dust nuisance from the mud lake at its residual facility in Nain, St. Elizabeth. These measures include the installation of additional sprinklers, setting up another dust monitoring station and the grassing of areas, said Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) with responsibility
for Information, Telecom-munications and Special Projects, Hon. Daryl Vaz. Mr. Vaz, who was addressing the March 17 post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House, informed that the measures came ahead of an Enforcement Notice from the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), which required that the company address the dust nuisance that has been affecting residents in the surrounding communities.
He said that the Enforcement Notice, which was effective March 16, also requests that ALPART provide weekly reports of its monitoring and sprinkling activities at the mud lake for the next few weeks. "ALPART (had) also been instructed to install additional sprinklers and expand its network (of) dust monitoring stations at the facility," he said. At a meeting held on Tuesday March 16, NEPA commended ALPART for its co-operation in dealing swiftly to reduce the impact of the dust nuisance, which has affected the health of residents. "The agency accepts ALPART's apology and actions in assisting members of the communities affected by the dust nuisance. The company has committed to collaborate with the local health
department to co-ordinate the response to the community health needs," he Dr. Vaz informed. The Minister further pointed out that NEPA will review the 1998 permit issued to ALPART under the Natural Resources Conservation Act, with the intention of including additional conditions for compliance, such as the closure plans for the facility. Minister Vaz said that he was very concerned when he saw the news report highlighting the effect the dust nuisance was having on residents in nearby communities. He said that the Office of the Prime Minister, under which NEPA falls, issued immediate instructions for this matter "to be taken very seriously." Mr. Vaz out that the dust condition at the plant has to be continuously monitored, particularly during drought conditions. "There has to be additional measures that are put in place to prevent a reoccurrence of this, especially as it affects the young and the old in communities (who) have no alternative but to stay there," he noted. "This is a matter that we are taking very seriously and we will be monitoring here from the Office of the Prime Minister," the Minister assured.
Goat farmers trained
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raining sessions for goat farmers were held at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) Room in Mandeville, Conference Manchester, and at the Sam Motta Demonstration Training Centre, in Knockpatrick, Manchester, on March 17. The training was carried out under the Strengthening of Jamaica's Food Security Programme, funded by the European Union, through its Food Facility Project, and conducted by the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, through RADA, and the Jamaica Goat Farmers Association. The project is implemented in Jamaica by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and its main objective is to increase production by assisting farmers in the areas of crop and livestock production. Assistant FAO Representative in Jamaica, Dr. Jillian Smith, urged the farmers to make the most of the training sessions. "We are aware that the goat farmers in Jamaica have a wealth of knowledge already and what we aim to do is build on that. It's been a long process to get this project going.
This is the first in 20 years that livestock farming has received this kind of funding and this kind of attention," she said. Manager for RADA in Manchester, Mr. Donald Robinson, also urged the farmers to learn as much as possible, to assist in the drive to increase the livestock population. He said that the 2009 production figures for livestock production in Manchester showed marginal increases, especially in broiler and goat categories, and that Members of Parliament were encouraged to channel funds from the Constituency Development Fund into livestock production, especially in the area of goat production. Honorary Secretary of the Jamaica Goat Farmers Association, Mr. Derrick Vermont, said that it was the first time in the 13-year history of the group that such assistance was being provided, and that the members would ensure that production is increased. The farmers were sensitised about areas, such as small ruminant production; the international sheep and goat trade and its implications for Jamaican farmers and consumers. They also received practical demonstrations on animal husbandry.
Wind farm expansion on track Minister of Energy and Mining, Hon. James Robertson, addressing the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday March 17, for the US$50 million Wigton Wind Farm II project in Rose Hill, Manchester.
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inister of Energy and Mining, Hon. James Robertson, broke ground for the second US$50 million Wigton Wind Farm project, located in Rose Hill, Manchester on Wednesday March 17. Wigton Wind Farm Limited is a subsidiary of the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ). It has successfully generated and delivered approximately 306 GWh of electricity to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPSCo) grid using wind power. The current project, Wigton I, is registered by the United Nations' Framework Convention on Climate Change, and has been trading carbon credits under an
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
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Emissions Reduction Purchase Agreement with the Dutch Government since 2005. The new project will maximize wind potential and assist in meeting the renewable energy policy target of 11% by 2012, as well as offer health and environmental benefits from operating clean, renewable energy facilities, as against traditional power plants. In his address, Mr. Roberson, said Wigton II will save the country much hard currency and, along with the soon to be established Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project, will drive lower electricity costs. "We will be using the new energy policy to drive a new Jamaica," the Minister said. Group Managing Director of the PCJ, Dr, Ruth Potopsingh, told the gathering that, while the Government is playing a lead role in developing the energy sector, space exists for private investments. She said that the energy diversification strategy must be twinned with energy efficiency and conservation, on a national basis. "As we move towards realizing the achievement of Jamaica's energy diversification strategy, only a concerted effort will achieve the change of successful reduction of our use of petroleum energy to make the difference to our environment and most importantly, our energy bill," she stated. Wigton II is 100% debt financed from the PetroCaribe Fund, and commissioning of the plant is scheduled to commence in July 2010.
Jamaica a hit Oil: Nigeria’s evironmental curse at travel show by the government of Nigeria and by multinational oil companies. The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) describes the region as suffering from “administrative neglect, crumbling social infrastructure and services, high unemployment, social deprivation, abject poverty, filth and squalor, and endemic conflict.” This poverty, and its contrast with the wealth generated by oil, has become one of the world's starkest and most disturbing examples of the “resource curse”.
A fisherman with his oil-soaked canoe in Goi, Ogoniland, Nigeria. Oil pollution has damaged crucial sources of livelihood for communities.
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he oil industry in the Niger Delta of Nigeria has brought impoverishment, conflict, human rights abuses and despair to the majority of the people in the oil-producing areas, according to a new Amnesty International report. The report, 'Petroleum, Pollution and Poverty in the Niger Delta', also details how the Nigerian government is failing to hold oil companies to account for the pollution they have caused. “Oil companies have been exploiting Nigeria's weak regulatory system for too long,” said Audrey Gaughran of Amnesty International. “They do not adequately prevent environmental damage and they frequently fail to properly address the devastating impact that their bad practice has on people's lives.” The Niger Delta is one of the world's 10 most important wetland and coastal marine ecosystems and is home to some 31 million people. It is also the location of massive oil deposits, which have been extracted for decades
A dying bird covered in oil.
US$600B in earnings yet citizens living in poverty Oil has generated an estimated US$600 billion since the 1960s. Despite this, many people in the oil-producing areas have to drink, cook with and wash in polluted water, and eat fish contaminated with oil and other toxins. Oil spills and waste dumping have also seriously damaged agricultural land. Long-term effects include damage to soil fertility and agricultural productivity. The destruction of livelihoods and the lack of accountability and redress have led people to steal oil and vandalize oil infrastructure in an attempt to gain compensation or clean-up contracts. Armed groups are increasingly demanding greater control of resources in the region, and engage in large-scale theft of oil and the ransoming of oil workers. Government reprisals against militancy and violence frequently involve excessive force, and communities are subjected to violence and collective punishment, deepening anger and resentment. Oil spills, waste dumping, and gas flaring are notorious and endemic. Oil spills result from corrosion of oil pipes, poor maintenance of infrastructure, leaks and human error and at times are as a consequence of vandalism, theft of oil, metal for scrap or sabotage. The scale of pollution and environmental damage has never been properly assessed, but hundreds of spills occur each year. According to the UNDP, more than 6,800 spills were recorded between 1976 and 2001. According to the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency some 2,000 sites require treatment because of oil-related pollution. The real total may be higher. The regulatory system in the Niger Delta is deeply flawed. Nigeria has laws and regulations that require companies to comply with internationally recognized standards of “good oil field practice”, and laws and regulations to protect the environment but these laws and regulations are poorly enforced. The government agencies responsible for enforcement are ineffective and, in some cases, compromised by conflicts of interest.
The Jamaica Tourist Board booth (at left), was very popular as show goers seek information on Jamaica as a tourist destination, at the world's largest travel and adventure show, which was held from March 6 -7, at the Washington Convention Center, in Washington, D.C.
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amaica was one of the most sought after travel destinations on display at the world's largest travel and adventure show, which was held from March 6 -7, at the Washington in Convention Center, Washington, D.C. Over 200 exhibitors took part in the event, which attracted more than 20,000 visitors. Jamaica's booth was a buzz of activity, with the showing of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) new advertisement, featuring the world's fastest man, Usain Bolt. The JTB Business Development Manager for the Mid-Atlantic region, Ms. Victoria Harper, provided visitors to the JTB booth with information about the exciting array of adventure options available in Jamaica, including hiking, caving and canopy tours. She also provided details on the wide range of accommodations, attractions and events, as well as specially priced packages. Nature enthusiasts who visited
the booth were able to explore what makes the island a nature-friendly tourist destination. Avid bird watchers picked up their 'Bird Songs in Jamaica', a must-have sound guide identifying 119 species found in Jamaica. Commenting on the expo, Director of Tourism, Mr. John Lynch said the timing of the expo was especially right, because the Mid-Atlantic is currently experiencing extremely cold weather and travellers can easily escape to Jamaica in just over three hours to experience Jamaica's warmth and the range of adventure tours available. "With the diversity and variety of Jamaica's attractions, the Adventures in Travel Expo affords us an excellent opportunity to appeal to adventure travellers who may not know how much Jamaica has to offer," he said. Similar shows will be held in Chicago from March 20-21; and in New York City from October 9-10.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
Minister bats for safe drinking water
Trucks loading water from a well at the Alpart bauxite plant for sale to communities in St. Elizabeth
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s Jamaica continues to face the protracted drought, dating back to November 2008, Minister of Water and Housing, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, has underlined the importance of safe drinking water for all. This the minister stated in a mes-
sage commemorating World Water Day, March 22. "Each year, World Water Day draws attention to the need to manage our water sources and supplies. This year's theme, 'Clean Water, Healthy World', speaks to the link between safe supplies of clean water, and the
physical, and economic health of individuals and nations," Dr. Chang said. "At its foundation is the recognition that access to safe drinking water is a vital element in the fight against poverty, hunger and disease. There is no denying that water has a serious
impact on the quality of life. The sad truth is that more than one billion people worldwide lack access to clean water, with severe repercussions," the Minister said. According to Minister Chang, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that of the approximately five million deaths that occur annually from water borne illnesses, such as diarrhoea, the majority are from poor developing countries. He added that the loss of production and related health costs associated with these preventable illnesses, add to the economic woes of countries that are burdened with poverty and underdevelopment resulting in persistent poverty. "The provision of adequate and safe water supplies is a key driver of a government's economic agenda. The viability of a number of sectors, including manufacturing, tourism, agriculture and the services sector, depends on adequate sources of safe water. It therefore demands that the sensible and sustainable management of water resources must to be high on the agenda if the process of economic growth is to continue," Dr. Chang said. He pointed out that Jamaica's water quality is held in high regard by locals and visitors alike, due to the rigorous treatment it undergoes before distribution, which is in keeping with standards set out by the WHO.
"But preserving the quality and quantity of our fresh water resources, calls for a renewed focus on sustainable management. The intensive use of fresh water means that it is a vulnerable and limited resource," he said. The Minister noted that the effects of climate change, increased urbanisation, population increases and environmental degradation are already being felt in the Caribbean and Latin America. "We have to look no further than the severe meteorological drought being experienced across the region and the significant reduction in surface inflows to our treatment facilities. Countering and perhaps reversing these effects will require increased monitoring, data management, institutional strengthening, the use of appropriate technology, watershed management, collaboration between stakeholders and a strong commitment to conservation among all water consumers," he said. "As Jamaica joins the world in observing World Water Day, rest assured that the Government is committed to sustainable and effective management of our water resources as we move towards the Millennium Development Goal of providing access to potable water for all by 2015," he added.
Tourism Enhancement Fund Aids Small Businesses within a day or two they will call us and say they have been healed," he boasts. "I feel good that I am using this business to do my part in developing our country's tourism product," he adds.
Bubbling Springs in Middle Quarters, St. Elizabeth
Small business owners in the tourism sector have been keeping their businesses afloat through financial assistance from the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF). Proprietor of Bubbling Springs in Middle Quarters, St Elizabeth, Lincoln Fagan, says the loan saved his property. After starting his business in 2000, Mr. Fagan confesses that it was rough getting things off the ground. "The loan has helped Bubbling Springs in many ways. Before I got the assistance, the facility was there but many people didn't even know about it," he said. After years of struggling and applying for assistance from financial institutions without luck, Mr. Fagan finally approached Jamaica National Small Business Loans (JNSBL) Limited in 2009. He was granted a small loan through the TEF, which had a $200 million component to improve the tourism product specially set aside for small businesses in the sector and distributed
by the JNSBL. "It completely turned everything around for Bubbling Springs. It's only recently, after we got the loan from JN, that people (started to) know about us," Mr. Fagan says. He used the money to upgrade certain aspects of his facility, as well as apply various marketing strategies to increase public awareness of his business. "It was a big breakthrough. For some people it might be small but, for me, it was one of the biggest things to happen. When you see people start rolling in, in buses from all over Jamaica, it was really a great feeling," Mr. Fagan states. The financing he received through the TEF has transformed the Middle Quarters mineral bath into one of the major attractions on the island's south coast for Jamaicans and tourists. "People come here to get healing from various complaints. Many have been healed from pain and aches, arthritis, wounds and other ailments. They come to Bubbling Springs and
Diverse Projects Benefiting Financing has been provided to small hotels, attractions, villas and apartment owners to expand and develop their properties, as well as in the provision of loans to ground transport operators in the tourism sector. Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours is another attraction which has benefited from TEF funds. Started in 1991, it has become one of the island's leading ecotourism attractions, offering tours of the Blue Mountains. Providing accommodation in Negril, Westport Cottages is also a beneficiary of the funding. The proprietor has developed a 16-room facility on the Norman Manley Boulevard that provides basic facilities to a diverse visitor base. Many other businesses have refurbished and enhanced their operations with the funds they have accessed. A total of 67 loans have been disbursed to the sector. The maximum loan is $3 million and the funds are provided at a three percent interest rate for a maximum term of five years. Loans of up to $1 million are available for ground transportation
operators. The Master Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development was finalised in 2002, and TEF was developed to implement the recommendations of this tourism plan. The mechanism for achieving this was an Act giving the then Ministry of Industry and Tourism the power to collect fees of US$10 from incoming airline passengers and US$2 from cruise passengers and the proceeds placed in a dedicated fund to benefit tourism.
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
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Land titling process to speed up Persons seeking information from a representative of the National Land Agency at a land titling seminar in Santa Cruz, sponsored by Jamaica National Building Society and the St. Elizabeth Homecoming Committee.
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inister of Water and Housing, Dr. Horace Chang, says that the Government is to acquire the services of a Korean firm to assist in speeding up land registration and titling. Dr. Chang said the administration has concluded discussions with the firm, and the programme will facilitate collation of the requisite data to get millions of parcels of unregistered land registered within a reasonable timeframe. He explained that the full details will be provided by Prime Minister, the Hon Bruce Golding, in due course. "But, it's moving forward. We have reached a stage where we have identified the funding, the technology and the mechanism to get out there and do it," Dr. Chang said. He was addressing the Jamaica Mortgage Bank's (JMB) Housing Development Seminar on the theme: "New Issues in Planning and Maintaining Housing Development", at the Terra Nova Hotel, Kingston, on Thursday March 18.
Dr. Chang said that the land titling process was moving "slowly", resulting in too many unregistered parcels of land which cannot be used for security, particularly for transactions involving persons in the lower income brackets. He said that the titling process, particularly subdivisions, has proven "challenging", especially for low income earners. Attempts have been made, at "various levels", to effect the requisite institutional changes necessary to make subdivision titling more easily done, he added. "We have been able to move the Titles Office fairly effectively within a cooperative framework, but it has to be broadened to ensure that we have a framework that can get subdivision titling moving quickly and efficiently, in the marketplace," he stated. The seminar, attended by a wide cross section of mortgage and housing solution providers and developers, facilitated dialogue between private and public sector stakeholders on the issues.
Govt’s mulls integrated approach for reducing traffic accidents
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inister of Health and Environment, Rudyard Spencer, says road accidents are having a negative impact on the health system. “If we had significantly less accidents, all those bed spaces would be available for primary health care,� he said. Minister Spence has urged the Transport Ministry to do its best in ensuring that road users are more careful because of the impact on hospitals and also on the health system. Meanwhile, Minister of Transport and Works, Mike Henry, says his Ministry is working very
closely with the Transport Authority and the police to improve road discipline. Both Ministers were guests on the monthly call in programme 'Jamaica House Live' which was hosted by Minister of Agriculture Dr. Christopher Tufton in the absence of the Prime Minister. Minister Henry said that strict attention is being paid to the indiscipline of drivers and as a result road traffic laws are being revised and a number of initiatives will be introduced to improve driving discipline.
More Municipal Officers for St. Elizabeth
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he St. Elizabeth Parish Council has doubled its complement of municipal police officers, by swearing in eight more on Thursday, March 11. At the installation ceremony at the Council chamber, Mayor of Black River, Councillor Jeremy Palmer, charged the new officers to serve without partiality but with restraint in their use of force. "The power of the office is not to serve special interests, it is to serve the wider community, and the wider community is the parish of St. Elizabeth and the entire island of Jamaica," Mayor Palmer said. "You have a scope of authority; it is to be used in the interest of the people of St. Elizabeth, and with courtesy. Be guided by those rules because, under my administration, everybody must understand that corruption is zero tolerant," the Mayor said. Newly installed officer, Paulette Brown,
said that she will be working along with the Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF) to ensure that market vendors abide by the rules, and that motorists do not block the roads. "I will also be working with the Tax Office to ensure that barbers, hairdressers, and other business operators observe the rules and regulations," she stated. For officer Denzel Myers, the five-week training has prepared him to effectively monitor the markets and the bus parks; enforce the National Solid Waste Authority (NSWA) Act, work with the Inland Revenue Department and ensure that building codes are followed. Councillor for the Santa Cruz Division, Stallin Brown, said he expects to see more order in the town, and called on the new recruits to exercise their duties with respect for the people.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
March 15 - 28, 2010
JAMCEN Health Wellness Fest T
he 3rd JAMCEN (Jamaica Central) Health and Wellness Fest took place on the weekend of March 6 - 7 in Mandeville. On Saturday March 6, organisors of the event, 20Twenty Strategies, hosted a workshop by Dr. Sharon Cadiz called Give Wings to Your Dreams. In this her second appearance at the wellness event, Dr. Cadiz presented a 3 hour workshop on how you can unlock the issues to your growth potential and give you the tools to tap into your inner strength. This workshop was held at the Mandeville Hotel. The following day, the main event was held at 3 Brumalia Road and
featured a full day of activities which saw presenters from the USA, Canada and Jamaica participating. There were fitness and healthy cooking demonstrations, presentations about weight loss, how to grow your own herbs and pointers on decorating your home on a budget. A number of companies in the health care sector were on hand to offer pointers and information to those who attended the event. The kids were not left out of the mix as there were activities for them including a Hula Hoop contest. Later in the evening,a number of performers including recording artiste Tessanne Chin made an appearance. The Little Ochi Booth was a popular spot with patrons of the Health Fair
“Don’t worry, these cookies are actually good for you,” says this representative of Kirk Distributors.
This lady gets her blood pressure checked courtesy of the Heart Institute of the Caribbean.
Stott Pilates demonstrates their innovative exercise routine.
Chef JoseRiquelme of Sunset Resorts demonstrates how to prepare healthy meals.
So young and already a charmer.
This portrait artist was kept busy all day.
Fay Wint of HHG Magazine gives pointers on how to decorate in hard times.
“I see dead skin cells”: Marcia Thomas of Kirk Distributors gives the result of an Aveno Skin Analysis. This young lady shows off her mad skills. Enjoying a relaxing facial.
JRDC launches 2010 season
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
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he Jamaica Race Driver's Club (JRDC) held its official 2010 season launch on Friday, March 19, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. In attendance were Minister of Transportation the Hon. Mike Henry, Chairman of the Sports Development Foundation of Jamaica David Mais, Wayne Lawrence VP of Marketing at LIME, Jamaica Beverages' Stephen Dawkins, KLAS' Kesi Asher along with JRDC Executive members Hilary Jardine O.D., J.P., Marck Carey, David Summerbell and others. LIME formally announced their continued association with the Race Driver's Club and handed over a sponsorship cheque valued at JA$3,300,000.00 at the event. Jamaica Beverages also signed on their Turbo Energy drink and will be
the official energy drink of the series. They will brand the water tank and the entrance bridge, while KLAS and Power 106 FM committed as the official radio broadcast
Club Vice President Marck Carey's carbon fiber, tube framed Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution prototype, which is expected to have its competition debut at the upcoming Carnival of Speed meet.
partners of the club. Total Jamaica will be the season sponsor of the entry level IP45 class, while the club will undertake improvements to the fencing, safety measures and re-instate the original entrance gate near the Chen house to access the track from parking lot #2 using the newly sponsored Goodyear bridge. The club will run as is customary, four race events for the 2010 season. The first, the Carnival of Speed meet is slated for the Easter weekend of April 4 and 5, with qualifying taking place on Sunday the 4th and racing on the following Monday. The Caribbean Invasion meet takes place on Labor Day in May, with the Independence Meet in August and the Heroes Day meet in October rounding out the season.
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Welfare fund, insurance scheme for athletes
T LIME VP for marketing, Wayne Lawrence (left), confirms his company’s $3 million plus sponsorship of the 2010 racing season to JRDC Executive Member Hilary Jardine.
March 15 - 28, 2010
he Government has set aside $27 million for the establishment of a welfare fund and an insurance scheme, which will provide support for the island's athletes. The initiatives, which will come on stream soon, will be funded through the Sports Development Foundation (SDF). Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Olivia Grange, made the disclosure at the press launch of the Jamaica International Invitational Track and Field Meet held at the Hilton Kingston hotel on March 9. Minister Grange revealed that approximately $17 million has been earmarked for the setting up of the welfare fund, with $10 million set aside for the insurance scheme. She said that an announcement will be made at a later date on the specifications and how athletes can benefit from the initiatives. Baseball Diamond for Trelawny Meanwhile, the Minister noted that plans are in place for the construction of a baseball field in the island.
"We are going to be getting a baseball diamond. We have other discussions taking place for us to expand our infrastructure in Trelawny," she said, adding that major teams from overseas "are talking to us about pre-season training here." Also, Ms. Grange noted that coming out of a recent trip to Singapore, a new running track will be established at the National Stadium. "We are a little bit behind schedule (however) all the materials have been shipped and we are reworking the schedule. It would seem that we won't be able start the work now until after the (athletic) season but we are definitely on track for getting the Stadium East track as well as the infield repaired and put back in A1 condition," she stated. The Jamaica International Invitational Track and Field Meet will be held on Saturday, May 1, at the National Stadium, and will attract a number of top local and international athletes. The Government has contributed $27 million to the staging of the event through the SDF.
Minister Grange willing to declare dominoes a national sport T
he Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has told representatives of the National Association of Domino Bodies (NADB) that she is prepared to clear the way for dominoes to be accorded official status of a national sport in Jamaica. The NADB delegation, led by President Rey Smith, visited
Dominoes after dark in the Mandeville park
Minister Grange at her offices for the main purpose of bringing her up to date on plans for hosting the 10th World Dominoes Championship in Jamaica in 2012 and to seek the support of the Ministry. Mr. Smith told Minister Grange that dominoes' governing body, the International Domino Federation (FID), had applied to the International Olympic Committee
for dominoes to be an Olympic sport and was told that the IOC would be amenable to the idea if the countries which are members of FID declared dominoes a national sport. Minister Grange was told that Venezuela, Russia and Spain had already recognised dominoes as a national sport and that Puerto Rico was in the process of doing so. On the matter of the staging of the international tournament in Jamaica, Mr. Smith said that it would be held in May 2012 and that there would be representatives from 35 countries. He said Jamaica would become the second English-speaking country to host the World Dominoes Championship, the first being the United States. At the 2009 Championship in Russia, the Jamaican team led up to penultimate day of competition when they lost to Spain. Mr. Smith said the President of FID, Mr. Lucas Guittard, had expressed the desire that Minister Grange joins him at the launch of the Dominoes World 10th Championship when he visits Jamaica later this year. Minister Grange said that she was pleased with the various domino programmes and competitions being conducted islandwide and the collaborations with public sector bodies
such as the Ministry of Health and the Social Development Commission, an agency of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. "The theme, 'Choosing Your Partner Before You Play', used in your HIV/AIDS project with the Ministry of Health was well chosen because it applies not just to domi-
noes but to life. I am pleased that dominoes is being used to assist national development.� "You can be assured of the support of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture in your domino programmes and a successful hosting of the international tournament here in Jamaica in 2012."
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS March 15 - 28, 2010
Edwin Allen, Jago tops Central Champs
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DWIN Allen High School topped defending champions Holmwood Technical with 371.5 points to take the female section of the 2010 Milo Central Athletics Championships at the GC Foster College on March 12. In the boys' section, St Jago High School easily retained their crown with 289.5 points; more than 100 ahead of Holmwood, which finished with 164 points.
Edwin Allen's win gives the school a big moral booster against Holmwood, going into the national championships, where they are the seven-time defending girls champions. In fact, Holmwood only managed to finish third in the two-day meet with 321.5 points, behind St Jago, who amassed 337 for second place. Vere Technical (190) and Manchester (163.5) placed fourth and fifth
respectively. Holmwood may still have a few tricks up their sleeve however, as their complete squad did not compete at the Central Champs. Rounding out the top five places in the boy's section was Edwin Allen with 120.5 points, Manchester 84, and Old Harbour 58. A total of 19 meet records were shattered over the two-day event; ten on Thursday's opening day. Manchester High's Natoya Goule broke two records by running 10:31.8 in the 3000m Open and 2:12.01 in the 800m Class One. Nikita Tracey of Edwin Allen ran 58.80 to establish a new mark in the girls' 400m Hurdles Open. Kemar Bailey-Cole of Old Harbour lowered the Class One 100m record to 10.58. St. Jago's Natallia Whyte raced to 11.97 in the girls' Class Four event. Holmwood's Dianna Johnson with 11.80 in Class Three also established a new mark. Edwin Allen broke the record in the Class Two 4Ă…~100m while Kevin White of Holmwood crossed the line in the boys' Class One 800m in 1:52.00 while in Class Two, Brian Smith of Clarendon College ran 1:57.53 for a new mark. Kellion Knibb of St. Jago threw 43.01 in the girls' Class Two, the lone field event record.
Nine records were broken on Friday's second and final day including an outstanding new mark of 3:49.77 in the Class One boys 1500 meters by Kemoy Campbell of Keno Bellefield High School. Heaven of Holmwood Technical took the Class 1 Girls 1500 Meter run in 4:41.55.