The 45th staging of the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB) will take place on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 7:30 a.m. at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. The theme
will be “Righteousness Exalts A Nation.” Since its inception in 1981, the
NLPB has served as a pivotal event fostering unity, fellowship, and spiritual
reflection among the nation’s leaders, promoting shared values and a vision
for national progress.

At the online media launch held on Tuesday, January 7 (which can be viewed
here), Rev. Sam McCook, Chairman of the National Leadership Prayer
Breakfast Committee, underscored the event’s enduring importance: “This
initiative is an attempt by the Church, through the National Leadership
Prayer Breakfast Committee, to call us to a higher living – to say that in our
respective spaces to live righteously. This is an opportunity to bring our
leaders together, to reflect on their roles, and for us to collectively pray for
them.”
As part of its commitment to impactful community engagement, the NLPB
announced the 2025 outreach project, which will focus on supporting The
Tegwyn House, a special unit at the Jamaica National Children’s Home that
cares for children who have severe mental and physical disabilities and need
24-hour care. Rev. Dr Peter Garth of the Hope Gospel Assembly noted the
necessity of the church’s role in the development of Jamaica’s children.
Reflecting on the positive impact of the 2024 outreach initiative, Rev. Garth
remarked, “I am very excited to speak on the Educate and Elevate
Programme because of the success stories behind our programme. Last

year, we distributed 1039 backpacks with supplies.” This distribution, he
mentioned, takes place across communities that are economically challenged
and a rural parish, last year being Clarendon.
In addition to the offering that was collected, the VM Foundation made a
valuable donation of $500,000. “You have blessed many children and will
bless two students at the Edna Manley College of Arts,” said Rev. Garth
when highlighting the strong support received from the VM Group.

Programme recipient Arianna Morrison, a student of the Immaculate
Conception High School, shared, “This change-making initiative has carried
students throughout their primary, secondary and tertiary education, which
has in turn, led to them becoming nation builders by this act of generosity.”

The event is made possible by the generous support of sponsors, including
the VM Group, whose President and CEO, Courtney Campbell, stated, “The
National Prayer Breakfast Committee has demonstrated faithfulness,
diligence and steadfastness, and this leadership initiative has been good for
Jamaica. I believe it has made a significant contribution to the building of
our country.” To mark the mutually beneficial relationship between the VM
Group and NLPB, Mr. Campbell remarked, “The VM Group continues to be
pleased in being associated with the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast.
We are meeting the spiritual needs of our leaders.”

With evidence of the positive impact yielded from the initiative, The Jamaica
Broilers Foundation has agreed to provide financial support to the Breakfast
this year again, following their generous contribution in 2024.

The esteemed Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick
Allen, continues to lend his patronage to this vital gathering.

Members of the public are invited to tune in to the live broadcast of the
event, which will air on local television and radio stations. For more
information, please contact 876-338-4411 or 876-315-0835.

Together, as a nation, we can reaffirm our collective commitment to the
principles that exalt and strengthen Jamaica.

^{Source: Our Today}

Jamaica’s animal welfare programmes are set to receive a significant boost through the efforts of the Animal Welfare Advocacy Group (AWAG) a not-for-profit membership organization.

AWAG, which was launched recently at the Hope Zoo’s Serengeti facility, saw a gathering of a wide range of players in the animal health and welfare community . Dr. Blossom O’Meally-Nelson, founder of the organization, gave the inaugural address, and guest speaker Dr. Kevin Walker represented  the Hon Floyd Green Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining. 

Dr. Walker lauded AWAG for convening key players such as the JSPCA, the Racing Commission, the Jamaica Veterinary Medicine Association. Jamaica Equine Veterinary Association, Montego Bay Animal Haven, Hope Zoo and a number of private animal welfare defenders to form a critical mass that speaks with one voice to the public and to Government agencies re legal reform public education, enforcement and community action. 

AWAG is an umbrella organization with a strong executive committee and sub-committees related to the different areas of expertise. Executive Committee Members include Dr. Paul Cadogan, Dr Sarah Eytle, Dr. Sophia Ramlal, Dr. Barbara Carby, Dr. Bri Schwapp, Mrs.Pamela Lawson, Mrs. Cindi Scholefeld, Mrs.Jessica Munitz, Mrs. Marie Baillie, Dr. Audrie McNab.

AWAG which was convened in 2022 has already had an impact in the animal welfare community. It has submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture proposed amendments to the Animal Cruelty Act which is now under review. It is initiating a programme of public education bringing together the Ministry of Agriculture and the JIS. A plan is now in place to work with the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Police Training College to strengthen knowledge and skills related to animal welfare and the enforcement of animal laws.

The aim of AWAG is not to compete with existing organizations or to replicate programmes but to enhance existing programmes and strengthen the capacity of agencies to create new ones while focusing on advocacy its raison d’etre.

High on the AWAG agenda is the matter of the elimination of the practice of fake vets which is common particularly in rural areas. The frequent complaints from tourists about the poor state of animal welfare in Jamaica is a matter that requires urgent attention, so is the need for more pounds for stray animals, funding for spay and neuter programmes and more animal foster homes to deal with the surge in displaced domestic animals as apartment living becomes more prevalent. One overarching need is public education which requires collaboration between all stakeholders public and private.

Special guest at the launch was ‘Dr.’ Teddy Barks, Jamaica’s first therapy dog. Dr. Teddy works out of the Bustamante Children’s Hospital. He was raised and trained by Mr .Joey Brown. Curator of the Hope Zoo. 

^{Source: Jamaica Gleaner}

International Game Technology (IGT), collaborated with the Mona Geoinformatics Institute (MGI) to host a two-day Drone Technology Camp, introducing students to the field of drone technology. The camp, held at the University of the West Indies Mona Geoinformatics Campus, welcomed students age five to 18 years old from six of IGT’s After School Advantage centres including Dunrobin Primary, St Michaels Primary, SOS Children’s Village, Stony Hill; Mustard Seed Communities Little Angels Learning Centre, Mary’s Child, Matthew 25:40 and Dare to Care Programme. Here Sergeant Carter (right), and a member of his team teach the students how to assemble one of the larger drones at the camp.

^{Source: Corporate Hands: The Jamaica Gleaner}

IGT Coding and Robotics Rock camp equips C’bean youth for new semester

International Game Technology (IGT), a global leader in gaming, completed its fourth annual IGT Coding and Robotics Rock Camp for Caribbean youth.

Now, participating students are back to school and energised for the new year, poised to become innovators and problem-solvers.

IGT partnered with the Mona Geoinformatics Institute (MGI) at the University of the West Indies to host the virtual camp, under the inspiring theme ‘Climate Action: Think It! Code It! Solve It’.

The camp, an extension of IGT’s global After School Advantage (ASA) programme, consisted of introductory (Level 1) and intermediate (Level 2) programmes. 

A total of 72 students from five Caribbean countries – Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, St Maarten, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago – participated in the virtual camp.

^{Source: LOOP News}

Debbie-Ann Green (second right), general manager, International Game Technology (IGT), presents care packages for young mothers to Nadia Williams (right), administrator at Mustard Seed Communities, Mary’s Child on February 27 in honour of International Women’s Day. IGT also presented packages to students at the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation, while sharing messages of encouragement and inspiration. Mary’s Child is a residential facility established in 1992 for teenage mothers and their babies, providing them with training in life-enabling skills and educational opportunities. IGT has partnered with them since May 2016.

^{Source: Corporate Hands: The Jamaica Gleaner}

The Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) has condemned the brutal murder of 80-year-old Sylvia “Miss Puncy” Barrett from the community of Bamboo in St Ann.

Barrett was reportedly tied up and burned to death in her house last week.

CCRP which expressed shock and outrage following news of Barrett’s death said: “Such acts of cruelty against our senior citizens are becoming all too frequent, and we therefore urge immediate concerted action by the government, communities, families, churches and concerned citizens to protect these vulnerable members of society.”

The CCRP outlined a Programme that can improve the safety and protection of the elderly in our communities.

These are the suggested measures:

• Neighbourhood Watch and community organizations identify the elderly and disabled persons in their geographical area, be it a housing scheme, district, lane, or apartment/townhouse complex. This information can be used to arrange for regular visits by members of the community organization to check on the welfare and safety of senior citizens. The information could also be shared with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Poor Relief Department, and the Jamaica Fire Brigade so that specific programs can be arranged for their protection.
• Community Safety Workshops: Community based fire safety workshops conducted by the JFB for Neighbourhood Watch, religious, and civic associations to educate elderly individuals and their caregivers on preventative measures and emergency response strategies. These community organizations should take the initiative of inviting the JFB to stage these workshops.
• Accessible Fire Safety Resources: We commend the JFB for producing brochures in Braille so that individuals who are blind will get that information of what to do to prevent fires and what to do in the event of fires. We also recommend that accessible formats that can be viewed or heard from their telephones and radios be also provided for the most vulnerable.
• Home Safety Inspections: The JFB and community organizations should more closely collaborate in identifying homes where the elderly reside so there can be regular safety inspections, focusing on the unique needs of elderly residents, and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Emergency Preparedness Training: Community based organizations should invite and facilitate the JFB to conduct emergency preparedness training sessions specifically tailored for the elderly, emphasizing evacuation plans, safe exits, and communication strategies during emergencies.

The CCRP says it stands ready to collaborate with local authorities, the JCF, the JFB, and community organizations to implement these recommendations and promote a safer living environment for our elderly population.

Date: May 6, 2024

Publication: Our Today

Jamaica Gleaner 29 Sep 2024

KINGSTON, JAMAICA – THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024: WITH MEMBERSHIP now surpassing 12,000 persons, the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP), at their annual general meeting (AGM), held at the Police Officers’ Club in Kingston on September 18, 2024, acknowledged that their increase in membership has strengthened the voice of the elderly for their advocacy in areas that include legislation, health services and pensions.

PROPOSED ELDERLY CARE AND PROTECTION LEGISLATION

In her report to the 14th AGM of the CCRP, Executive Chairman and Founder Mrs Jean LowrieChin informed the packed room and 90 online participants that the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security had written to the organisation assuring that the proposed Elderly Care and Protection Legislation is being given priority. She noted that, in response to CCRP’s proposals, the ministry said they are pursuing their research and that at the conclusion of their study, they will organise public discussions with stakeholders, including CCRP.

HEALTH SERVICES

Regarding health services, the annual report noted that, among the five new conditions being covered by the National Health Fund are three that the CCRP had lobbied strongly for, namely colorectal cancer, Parkinson’s disease and thyroid disease. The CCRP chairman explained that those three diseases were identified by the CCRP after receiving recommendations from members all over Jamaica.

PENSIONERS TAX RELIEF

The CCRP Annual Report also welcomed the increase in pensioners tax relief from $80,000 to $250,000, following the strong lobbying of the CCRP that included letters to the minister of finance.

ROCKFORT MINERAL BATH PETITION

Another telling sign of the strength that comes from numbers was evident in the report on the CCRP’s Rockfort Mineral Bath Petition. CCRP launched the petition for the reopening of the bath on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, and within five days, more than 2,500 members had signed the petition and over 300 submitted comments on past experiences of using the bath for health and wellness. The petition was shared with the two parties involved in the management and maintenance of the bath: the National Heritage Trust and Caribbean Cement Company. The good news is that those parties have given their undertaking that the bath will be reopened before the close of 2024.

GROWTH IN CCRP CHAPTERS/PARISH REPRESENTATIVES

A highlight of the CCRP’s Annual Report was the growth of CCRP chapters in Northeast, Central and Western Jamaica, and the wider Corporate Area that includes St Catherine, St Thomas, Kingston and St Andrew. All chapters now have Caring Committees that have developed activities and outreach plans for their areas.

The growth in CCRP Chapters has resulted in a new set of CCRP volunteers who have become parish representatives. Mrs Lowrie-Chin described the parish representatives as, “CCRP’s eyes and ears on the ground”. They provide information on the condition of seniors in their parish, make suggestions for action to be taken to protect them and improve their lives, and assist with the organisation and execution of planned activities.

HURRICANE BERYL OUTREACH

Mrs Lowrie-Chin expressed the organisation’s profound thanks to CCRP volunteers in areas of Jamaica that were hardest hit by Hurricane Beryl and noted that 100 care packages, valued at $450,000, were distributed to senior citizens who were severely affected by the hurricane. Distribution of those care packages was done mainly in St Elizabeth with the assistance of the National Council for Senior Citizens.

CCRP also sponsored a fundraising performance by the NDTC through which $790,000 was raised. This sum will be used to repair homes of the elderly that were damaged by the hurricane in the parish of Manchester.

HEALTH INSURANCE

The CCRP AGM also expressed appreciation to Sagicor for the two CCRP Health Plans – the Major Medical and Comprehensive plans. The steep increase in premiums for the Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) was discussed and it was agreed that this reflected the state of the entire health insurance industry at this time. The CCRP executive will be negotiating with the provider on behalf of members as the new premiums are soon to be determined.

PARTNERSHIPS

Other CCRP partners that were commended at the AGM include Jamaica National General Insurance (JNGI) for their Silver Shield Plan for CCRP members only, and the over 100 discount partners that offer reduced prices to members.

During the discussion section of the AGM, members voiced their support for the advocacy being carried out on their behalf by CCRP. There were also expressions of deep appreciation for the many exciting excursions that are taking place, and which are helping them to experience the CCRP motto of ‘Life to the Fullest’.

LIVING LEGACY AWARDS

At the CCRP AGM, members were reminded that the CCRP 2024 Living Legacy Awards will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel. Six Jamaicans will receive Living Legacy Awards in various areas of accomplishment. The CCRP Living Legacy Award was created to honour individuals over 60 years old who have contributed to the growth and development of the country, going beyond the call of duty and displaying exemplary service and dedication in their fields of endeavour.

The Caribbean Community of Retired Persons was launched in 2010 with the objective of being a vital resource for persons aged 50 years and over. The minimum age for membership has now been lowered to 40.

ABOUT CCRP

CCRP Jamaica is a non-profit, non-denominational and non-political membership organisation for persons 40 and over.

CCRP’s Vision/Mission:

• To work towards ensuring that the vast talent, experience and wisdom of seniors will be respected.

• To ensure that our seniors will enjoy the quality of life they deserve.

• Empowerment of our seniors to continue making their contribution to the development of community, country and region.

Article Name:CCRP AGM affirms ‘more members, stronger voice for seniors’

Publication:Jamaica Gleaner

Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) St Elizabeth parish representative, Joan Martin (centre), receives a donation of care packages for distribution to the Malvern and Treasure Beach communities from CCRP founder and CEO, Jean Lowrie-Chin (right), accompanied by development consultant, Donna Singh.

_{Source: Corporate Hands/The Jamaica Gleaner}

Jean Lowrie-Chin/Writer  

December’s music has set the stage for a Christmas of joy and reflection. The month started with a soaring concert by the National Chorale of Jamaica (NCOJ), headlined by Messiah, so powerfully sung that there were goosebumps and teary eyes.

In his welcome, NCOJ Chair Christopher Samuda noted, “The National Chorale of Jamaica has awakened George Frideric Handel from centuries of peaceful rest in greeting you with his Messiah, a poignant reminder that the cradled birth of the Son of Man heralded His triumph ultimately over the grave.” Conducted by founding member Winston Ewart, we enjoyed a programme that was also light-hearted and offered Jamaican compositions.

ecember’s music has set the stage for a Christmas of joy and reflection. The month started with a soaring concert by the National Chorale of Jamaica (NCOJ), headlined by Messiah, so powerfully sung that there were goosebumps and teary eyes.

In his welcome, NCOJ Chair Christopher Samuda noted, “The National Chorale of Jamaica has awakened George Frideric Handel from centuries of peaceful rest in greeting you with his Messiah, a poignant reminder that the cradled birth of the Son of Man heralded His triumph ultimately over the grave.” Conducted by founding member Winston Ewart, we enjoyed a programme that was also light-hearted and offered Jamaican compositions.

Another highlight was the Christmas concert by the students of Tessanne Chin’s Voice Box at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium last Sunday. This brought back memories of the Radio City Christmas Show — the youngsters danced and sang in professional unison. Guest stars Sevana, Kevin Downswell and Gramps Morgan had members of the audience on their feet. Chin is paying forward her success; these young people will take the talent and discipline they have developed into productive adulthood.

We also had mellow Sunday evenings enjoying Television Jamaica’s (TVJ) All Together Sing and congratulate winner Dinthill High School and runner-up Central High School. These schools may not be regarded as A-listers, but their performances show that their coaches brought out A-class talent, leaving us to hope that they will have similar guidance with their academics.

Our Stella Maris Christmas lights are attracting admiring views, one lady commenting that she will enjoy that tree rather than having one at home, to save on her electricity bill. More Christmas lights are popping up and I consider them exclamation points for the biggest news of all times — the birth of the Christ Child.

Christmas Vibes

There are conflicting reports on Christmas shopping. We hear that money is short and customers are scarce downtown, yet the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) had to put in new traffic directions on Red Hills Road because of the line-up of vehicles heading to PriceSmart. In Portmore there were long lines ahead of opening time.

My friend Dave Rodney who was visiting for the Opening of the Princess Hotel in Hanover and the Jamaica Tourist Board launch of the tourism winter season was fascinated by the Kingston nightlife, where restaurants are so packed that parking is at a premium. By the way, today is his birthday, so ‘big up’ to my brilliant brother-friend.

The traffic has been unbelievable as well as the continued dangerous driving, with taxis switching lanes, creating crazy lanes, and putting their passengers in danger. Again, we hear complaints about the economy, but I have never seen before so many high-end vehicles. My theory is that the $4billion injected by Government into public sector wages have made this a Merry Christmas for many.

I have heard that not only immigrants but also African Americans are seeking to leave the US for other countries. With Jamaica being only a hop away, we may be seeing visitors who are taking a close look at Jamaica. Rodney commented that what he has been seeing here is a far different Jamaica than the negative headlines on the Internet. To paraphrase Psalm 118:22: The stone that the builder rejected may become the cornerstone.

Paula Llewellyn back as DPP

We have been following Jamaica Observer’s Alicia Dunkley-Willis’s reports on the decision of the Court of Appeal “that cleared the way for Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn to remain in office until she is 65 years of age… Furthermore the panel disagreed with the stance of the Constitutional Court that such an extension would require agreement between the prime minister and the Opposition leader.”

Dunkley-Willis quoted Justice Minister Delroy Chuck: “It further means that the DPP, Ms Paula Llewellyn, who has been out of office, pending this decision, can now resume her office at the earliest possible time. The Government is quite happy that the legislation, which was attacked by the parliamentary Opposition as being unconstitutional, has been finally settled as being valid and constitutional. The Government expects that this will be the end of the matter.”

We were puzzled at the ruling of the Constitutional Court in April, refusing the extension of Llewellyn’s contract to the age of 65, the accepted retirement age for both the public and private sector. Now the country can continue to benefit from DPP Llewellyn’s strong and erudite leadership. She is a national treasure.

Media in Mourning

There we were in November, heartily applauding The Gleaner’s court reporter Barbara Gayle when she received the Veteran’s Award from the Press Association of Jamaica. As she lined up with fellow honourees, they towered over her slight figure. There were hugs and handshakes all around and expressions of admiration for this dedicated veteran.

Imagine the shock when we heard of her death at the hands of a brutal murderer. This was made even more poignant when closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showed her handing the man a glass of water and quoting the Bible to him. Now there are reports that the alleged murderer assisted a gardener at Caymanas Estate where Barbara lived. The man he worked with is quoted as saying that the criminal made off with money that belonged to him.

The anguish felt by her co-workers and former mentees is heartbreaking. Journalist Rodney Campbell wrote on X: “If you knew Barbara Gayle the way I did (she called me “the roving rebel”) …she was like the great Carl Wint…a teacher who always made the time to impart knowledge, aid with links/sources, an excellent writer in complete detail.”

Franklin McKnight, who was Gayle’s editor 40 years ago, said on his Frankly Speaking podcast dedicated to his colleague: “It is difficult to find a nicer, gentler woman not given to ‘kas-kas’ and fussing or cruelty, always with that genuine smile.”

He continued: “She knew more about court proceedings than most of us. She knew the jargon and the court officers and yet she never took offence at questions an editor might ask. She was no prima donna, though she might well have been. She was meticulous about getting it right… Barbara Gayle had contacts for everybody who was anybody in the justice system. She had reach and clout. Barbara Gayle was respected and respectable.”

Our deepest sympathy to Barbara’s family and friends. May her soul rest in peace.

_{Publication: Jamaica Observer}