ORGANIZATIONS
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ORGANIZATIONS |
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Father Holung was honored for his vital efforts in service to Jamaica's poor and homeless. Through his unique ministry, Missionaries of the Poor, which he started 27 years ago, Father Holung along with his group of nearly 400 priests have spread his humanitarian work and his message of hope around the world through his social outreach programs. Surrounded by desperate poverty in Kingston, where the poor suffered greatly, Father Richard Ho Lung felt the call to respond radically to the needs of the poor in Jamaica. In 1981, he founded a religious community of men who would dedicate their lives to the service of the rejected and the destitute. Today the Missionaries of the Poor has grown internationally with a presence in the Philippines, Haiti, and Uganda, and Father Ho Lung has become a Jamaican institution. Businessman, Phillip Gore has earned a reputation for providing leadership during a career spanning more than 35 years in the construction industry as Executive Chairman of Gore Developments Limited, one of the leading developers of affordable housing in Jamaica. Described as a successful business leader, philanthropist and arts enthusiast, Mr. Gore is known for his selfless dedication to Jamaican youth, civic devotion and contributions to many of the island's charitable endeavors. Known for his strong leadership, Phillip Gore has earned a well-respected reputation during a career spanning over 35 years in the construction industry. He has served as Chairman and President of the Jamaica Developers Association and the Incorporated Masterbuilders Association. He is the President of Tennis Jamaica and Chairman of Gore Developments Ltd, one of the leading developers of affordable housing in Jamaica. He and his wife, Christine, sponsor a program which offers scholarships to young tennis players in Jamaica who have the aptitude, but not the means, to pursue higher education, whether locally or overseas. Speaking to the audience of more than 300 persons, Jamaica's Ambassador, His Excellency Anthony Johnson described the relationship between Jamaica and the USA as a long, powerful and useful one. More importantly, he continued that the relationship must continue as both countries shared a symbol of friendship beyond trade and investment, and charity, according to Ambassador Johnson. In praising the American Friends of Jamaica, the Ambassador lauded them for the dedication and commitment noting that the organization (AFJ) is unique, as former US ambassadors to the island have continued to extend their support to Jamaica after their individual term of office. Through philanthropic efforts, the AFJ has supported several of the nation's charitable organizations and social initiatives targeted at improving the lives of Jamaicans in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development. Former Ambassador to Jamaica, and President of the AFJ, Ambassador Sure Cobb, also echoed sentiments praising the honorees for their achievements, while commending the efforts of the organization.
Fraternal greetings were delivered by Mr. Arun Kumar Choudhary, First Secretary, Indian High Commission. Unfortunately, the High Commission of Guyana was unable to attend or send a representative but a message was sent which was read during the event. Mohamad Rashied, President of the Caribbean Islamic Cultural Society, said "that he was very pleased to see the large gathering and that it was truly a wonderful event in that it did not only provide entertainment, but it also provided the opportunity to inform and educate not only the younger generation but some of the older ones as well and in some way help them to reflect and re-connect to their roots."
It was handed over, last Friday, by Dr. Kelly Thomas and other representatives of the donor to Mr. Brian Claxton, in the presence of other staff at Mackenzie Hospital. Chief Executive Officer of Linden Hospital Complex, Mr. Gordon Gumbs, was also present. Thomas told the gathering the donation was facilitated through the efforts of Dr. Madan Rambarran of the Health Ministry, who was in contact with the Honourary Consul General for Guyana in Canada, Mr. Danny Doobay. Thomas said he hopes maximum use would be made of the gift to enhance patient care. Secretary of Linden Fund USA, Ms. Linda Felix, disclosed that the need was made known to Ms. Shanie Persaud, niece of Guyana's Ambassador in Washington, Mr. Bayney Karran, who met and spoke with Linden Fund Chairman, Dr. Vincent Adams at a function. Claxton expressed thanks on behalf of the Linden Hospital Complex and noted that the equipment would better serve patients
Doors open at 14:00h while show time begins at 15:00h. Given this high-powered cultural presentation, organizers believe that a modest donation of $20 per adult and $10 per child, below 10 years as appropriate. They are, therefore, counting on support of the public to help them raise a decent sum which goes towards a specific Humanitarian initiative in Rose Hall, Corentyne, and other parts of Guyana. The New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir, Inc. Humanitarian Mission, through the Guyana Central Arya Samaj with the help of the Guyanese-American, will shortly begin the construction of a house to accommodate Iris Latchman's family, who has become homeless when their shack crumbled to the ground last month on a windy day. They have secured temporary make-shift shelter at the residence of Latchman's eldest daughter, Camille Latchman. "We put two zinc sheets and we try to mek it a home for now, because we have nowhere else to live." Through our fund-raising activities such as this one will help us to provide shelter, food, clothing, and school supplies and other amenities for this hopeless family, and many others, and help to insulate them from ongoing physical and psychological hazards. Thus, our community support for this fund-raising project is vital in helping the less fortunate brothers and sisters in Guyana. Your presence is also an appreciation for the great work that our organization is doing in Guyana and elsewhere.
Dr Nicoleen Johnson, President of the Caribbean Association of China, called the dinner, dance, and ceremony "a tremendous success." "A year ago, on April 1,11 of us got together and decided that any organisation of expatriate Caribbean nationals in Shanghai must do three things," she said to guests at Abbey Road, a restaurant in Shanghai. "Those three things are now the mission of the Caribbean Association of China - to foster a stronger understanding and appreciation of our Caribbean culture in China, strengthen Sino-Caribbean relations, and serve as a support network for the Caribbean Community in China," President Johnson declared, also noting that in its first year CAC membership has quadrupled. Guests were treated to the island tunes of a Caribbean band and the sumptuous delicacies of Shanghai's first Jamaican restaurant, Uncle Mike's. The event raised over 24,000 RMB (US$3,500/JMD250,000), according to CAC treasurer Virginia Hunt. The association will use the funds raised Saturday to continue its philanthropic programmes, Dr Johnson said. Those programmes, in the last year, included a day at the Shanghai aquarium for children living with HIV and a dinner for visiting Special Olympics athletes from the Caribbean in September. The CAC also provides regular English language and Caribbean culture instruction for students who are the children of migrant workers at the Changlin Primary School in Pudong, Shanghai. "Your contributions tonight have helped us bring these kids backpacks. But we'd love to do more," President Johnson said in her remarks to the guests.
Sheila Surujpaul and her husband Surujnauth Surujpaul are the owners of the plot of land, which they have dedicated for the 'Bless the Children's Home Orphanage'. Once completed, the home would be able to accommodate some 72 children. Nearing completion: The Bless the Children's Home at Industry, which will accommodate 72 children. The Surujpauls are members of the New Testament Church of God, which has branches in many countries, and with assistance from those churches, will maintain the institution. Surujpaul told Stabroek News that it was always his wife's dream to assist the deprived and forsaken children of Guyana. After coming up with the idea, the couple opened a bank account in September 2005, in the name of the home and was its first contributor. They then planned a trip back home and while here many other church members agreed to co-operate to the best of their ability to see the project come to reality. "We see children on the street and they need help and attention. Some of them have lost their parents to HIV, so we thought that we could help and provide them with a home and teach them a life according to the Bible and its principles," he said. The couple is still holding discussions with the Human Services Ministry, which, according to Surujpaul, has been very responsive. Construction of the home would be completed in Septembr, and its administrators hope to start taking children from early October. Construction started in March 2006. The cost to construct the orphanage is some US$56,000. The building when completed will have 20 bedrooms, a kitchen, dining rooms, living room, and recreation room, bathrooms, storage rooms, parents' room.
The projected cost of the mission is US$175,000, and this includes all the medical and surgical fees, all airfares, food and accommodation and the cost of prescription medications that the patients will need to take home with them, a press release from the foundation stated. President of Three Rivers Kids Foundation, Jeanette Singh said, "The reason that we have to take these children to India for treatment is because Guyana lacks many medical facilities and specialists; in particular there are no paediatric cardiologists or paediatric surgeons." Overseas-based relatives of five of the patients have paid for their medical fees and airfares, while the Ministry of Health here has contributed US$13,000. The foundation will pay the remainder of the cost of the mission, the release stated. The group will be treated at Batra Hospital and Research Centre in New Delhi where 11 cardiac surgeries will be performed besides a kidney transplant case and an orthopaedic case. The group consisting of 27 people, 13 patients, 13 companions, and one doctor, travelled to India via Toronto. The release listed the names of the patients as five-year-old Breanna Hunte of Georgetown; seven-year-old Shiv Sooklall of Leguan; five-year-old Jasmine Fredericks of Sophia; ten-year-old Bhanumatie Persaud of Canal Number Two; fpur-year-old Karan Ornahunde of Skeldon; one-year-old Makhi Winfield of Linden; seven-year-old Beesham Singh of Wakenaam; five-year-old Farziena Ali of New Amsterdam; 18-month-old Marissa Roopchand of Cornelia Ida; two-year-old Virendra Dookie of Tuschen; Marlon Reid, 24, of Berbice; Sudarshanie Lalgie, 22, of New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop, and Sukhranie Victor, 42, of Good Fortune. Nine of the 11 patients will have open heart surgeries. Sudarshanie Lalgie who is suffering from kidney failure for the past two years will have a kidney transplant. Her father, who lives in Toronto, is donating one of his kidneys Beesham Singh, who was born without a left hip, will be having a left hip prosthesis inserted, the release added.
Iris Latchman, of Rose Hall Town on the Corentyne, is now homeless. The shack she once called home crumbled to the ground last month on a windy day. "Me know it woulda fall, and the day me sitting by me daughter house and about ten o'clock it fall flat. Me lose everything me had. Some people help me buy back a kerosene oil stove and one-one thing." The woman was taken in by her eldest daughter, Camille Latchman, and lives in the quarters below her. "We put two zinc sheet and so, and we try to mek it a home for now, because we ain't got nowhere else to live." The 60-year-old has four adult children, two of whom are boys. Three of them are mentally challenged. "All of them, except the big one, something wrong with them. Them stupidee and they born with a foot problem, and me and them can't walk properly. People does take advantage of them when they go to get li'l wuk." There is not much that her eldest daughter, Camille, can do for them. She assists at a nearby shop. "Me sister is 24 and she not so proper, and is the same thing with my two brothers. Me mother get limp foot, too." She said that her reputed husband is a farmer and she has three young children of her own to cope with. "All of them, me brothers and sister and me mother, does beg around, but me is the one with the education. When me father left we were small. I got asthma, and since me small me had to go begging to mind we. People does give we li'l black pepper, salt, massala, dhol and so, and we collect them and live on that." The Arya Samaj is now in the process of taking the necessary estimates. Iris Latchman is grateful to the organization. "Nobody ever help we like that. Me so glad they helping we, and soon me gun get me own house." The New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir, Inc. was established in 1987. Its Humanitarian Mission was established in 2005 to help the less fortunate children and elderly persons across Guyana. In March, Dr. Ramesh Sugrim, Head of the Humanitarian Mission, handed over $100,000 to assist seven-year-old Farziena Ali of Betsy Ground in East Canje. The child is scheduled for heart surgery in India. Each year, under the humanitarian mission, hundreds of children receive supplies, preparing them for the new academic year. Humanitarian Mission 2008 is scheduled to commence in July.
Neville Thomas re-elected as President Eddy Morrissey re-elected as Vice President Noreen Richards elected as Secretary Nalda Callerder re-elected as Treasurer Rosemary Morrissey elected as Fund Raiser Neville Thomas, a native of Parham Village, has obtained a number of educational degrees and diplomas, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Bachelor of Science (BSA), a Canadian Institute of Traffic and Transportation Diploma (CITT), a Provincial Instructor Diploma (PID), and a Marketing and Sales Diploma from the University of British Columbia. He also holds certification as a Professional Logistician and a Provincial Instructor. Neville also has over 17 years experience in teaching adults such topics as geography, transportation, logistics, distribution and economics at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and Vancouver Community College (VCC). He presently teaches the CIFFA International Freight Forwarders course as well as has presented a number of their Professional Workshops. He also teaches the CITT Transportation and Distribution diploma courses. Neville is committed to leading individuals and organizations to successful change through facilitated learning, coaching and consulting. Neville is a past President of CITT Vancouver Area Council. He is also a member of Vancouver Transportation Club.
Samsaywack Singh (left) hands over the supplies to Head Teacher at the Saraswat Primary School Esau Dookie in the presence of some teachers and students. According to a press release from the Region Three Administration Office the group handed over 30 stools, 42 reams of paper, ink and a computer to the De Willem, West Coast Demerara school. In his address to a small gathering including head teacher Esau Dookie, teachers and pupils, Regional Vice Chairman Manpersaud hailed the donation as a tangible contribution that will enhance the school. He said the gesture was a fine demonstration for other NGOs to emulate. US-based Guyanese Samsaywack "Bheesham" Singh handed over the items. Singh was a teacher at the school. In his remarks Singh said the overseas chapter saw the need for the students to keep abreast of technology and that informed the content of the donation. He encouraged the students to make full use of the items and to channel their energies towards higher levels of achievement. In his address, Dookie said over the years the growth and development of the school has been greatly enhanced by the efforts of the school's US and Canadian chapters. He said the US chapter has given the school six computers and two printers. It also plans to donate 40 chairs for the staff. Dookie extended gratitude to the donors. He also said the items will reduce the economic burden on the school and enhance the delivery of education.
Joan Flowers, a jurist who was also elected Democratic Sate Committeewoman representing her political district in Queens County, and her husband Neville Flowers, owner of the Cross Island Sports and Fitness Center, will be honored today at a ceremony of the New York Chapter of TJB. The two are being honored for their continuous efforts to give back to their community over the years. The private event is set for the Jamaica Consulate this afternoon from 6 p.m. Mr. Flowers, apart from owning his own company, has also traveled with the Jamaican Women's Hockey Team to Argentina as the team physical therapist and he has welcomed the under 17 Reggae Boyz to his facility on many occasions. Mrs. Flowers is currently a member of the Board of the Guy R. Brewer Democratic Club as well as the Allen Lawyers Guild and also currently serves as treasurer for the election committee for Governor David A. Paterson, the Governor of the State of New York and as finance director to Minority Leader State Senator Malcolm A. Smith.
"We are thrilled about this highly significant new level of responsibility JAMPACT will undertake with this program," said the TAP architect and launch organizer, Education Chair Diane Samuels. "The Tuition Assistance Program is a direct response to two crucial areas challenging Jamaica's education system-early childhood and teacher training. The program will allow JAMPACT to fulfill its mandate to provide professional development for educators, and therefore help build human capacity in Jamaica. We are hoping this serves as a model for other organizations that have adopted schools in Jamaica," Samuels continued. JAMPACT will reimburse up to US$500 to each eligible candidate of the Tuition Assistance Program who would have given at least two years full time service or three years part-time service in one of the organization's adopted basic schools (Coles, Crescent Road, Maxfield Park and St. Steven's). Awardees will be asked to submit official grades of "C" and above along with coursework receipts for reimbursement. For further information on JAMPACT's Tuition Assistance Program, contact Diane Samuels at education@jampact.org. And for further information on JAMPACT, contact Camille T. Barrett at (212) 459-4390 or communication@jampact.org.
Mr. Keeley, President/CEO of Baptist Health South Florida along with Dr. Izben C. Williams, Ambassador of St. Kitts and Nevis to the USA/Organization of American States will address nationals on topics relating to St. Kitts and Nevis Diaspora. The meeting will take place on Sunday, April 20, 2008 at South Miami Hospital (Victor E. Clark Education Center) 6200 SW 73rd St., South Miami, FL 33143; starting at 3:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served. St. Kitts and Nevis Association of Florida, Inc. (SNAF) is a not-for-profit (501 C3) tax exempt organization that seeks to strengthen the St. Kitts and Nevis community in the state of Florida, establish cooperative partnerships with other groups and communities within the state, further the development and international awareness of the two-island Federation through programs that focus on healthcare, education, sports, entertainment and culture. For more information, contact Troy Rawlins at 305- 494-5369.
The idea to form the Caribbean Baptist group was first mooted in 1993 when the Rev Dr Roy Henry, who was president of the Jamaica Baptist Union, met with a group of Caribbean Baptists at Bronx Baptist Church, which was founded by Jamaican Samuel Simpson in the 1960s. Evangelising both worlds After a mission conference in the Jamaican north-coast town of Ocho Rios in 2003, the Jamaica Baptist Union Mission Agency stated its intention "to participate in mission to Caribbean people in general and to Jamaicans, in particular, who are in the diaspora (for example, United Kingdom, United States and Canada)". CDBCA, which was incorporated in 2006, signed a partnership agreement with the JBU in April 2007 at Grace Baptist Chapel in the Bronx to aid in "facilitating mission in both regions of the world", meaning the Caribbean and North America.
The donation will go towards the purchase of a photocopying machine for the Centre. Organisers of the event Mr. Faiyaz Alli and Ms. Patsy Downey, who made the presentation, stated that the competition is an annual event which seeks to bring the Diaspora together to invest in the people of Guyana and keep the legacy of Dr. Jagan alive. Administrator of the centre, Mr. Mohammed Sattaur, who received the donation said that it is welcomed, noting that the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Cricket Competition is one of the organisations in the Diaspora that has been contributing regularly to the centre.
Mr. Osama Samad the leader of Barakah Barrels Guyana made the presentation of clothing, food items and educational supplies to the centre, as part of the organisation's many planned charitable programmes. Samad said the organisation donates items to all the Caribbean countries that are affected by natural disasters. He said, since Guyana is not so much affected by natural disasters the organisation decided to donate items to orphanages in the country. "We are fulfilling a mandate that was given to us by the almighty and at the same time we are assisting especially orphanages. We are here to stay and assist those in need," noted Samad. According to the leader, other social programmes will be launched at orphanages that include activities which will benefit orphans.
They will be going for their usual charity work and intend to link up with the various stakeholders of basketball, namely the governing Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation, the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association, Linden Amateur Basketball Association, the Guyana Secondary Schools Basketball Association and the local Veterans Association. President of the GNYVBA, Hewley Harry, isaid that "we plan to do our annual charity work in Guyana this year" but emphasised that the intention once again will be to coordinate the programme through the primary schools with the aim of having the children play in a one-day tournament. Harry said, "Our focus will be to take this nursery basketball programme to primary schools, thereby providing the children with an early exposure to organised basketball". This, he said, would enhance the readiness of the Guyana Secondary Schools Basketball Association (GSSBA) programme, which recently concluded with national finals. For this initiative by GSSBA, Harry stressed that the GNYVBA fully supports its efforts as well as those made by the Haynes Foundation, DC Jammers, and other U.S.-based organisations committed to the development of basketball in Guyana. He was quick to point out that "our proposed programmes will not be a conflict of interests as we also support all of the local organisations - GABF, GABA, LABA, etc.". He felt that through the local associations and interesting bodies, coaches and veterans from the NY Veterans Association can assist in establishing a nursery basketball programme. He has suggested that ahead of their visit clinics be conducted with sessions of two hours a week for children ages 8-13 with various speakers talking to them about various life skills. This, he said, could last for specific periods of perhaps three months and culminate with a mini tournament. His hope, however, was to involve more children this time around, as in the past it was generally for Linden and Georgetown primary schools but this time it should encompass schools in Berbice, East Coast & East Bank. However, he was hoping that local sponsorship could be acquired for this to be a success. The former Guyana national captain said his body was committed to promoting the development of basketball in Guyana at the junior level for boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 13. In this way their vision is to contribute to the development of the social skills while providing them with an opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of basketball.
The event will be held at the Catherine McCauley High School, Brooklyn, New York. According to the PNCR, the forum is sponsored by the PNCR groups in the tri-state area, namely the Brooklyn Chapter, the New York No 1 PNCR, and the New Jersey groups. According to a party release, the forum has been arranged in response to concerns raised by Guyanese about the recent tragic events, moreso the Lusignan and Bartica massacres. "There is no need to stress the gravity of the times in Guyana ...Lives, even of innocent mothers, are being cut down. Constitutional freedoms are being nullifiedJust recently, the party said that Oliver Hinckson must not be allowed to become another Mark Benschop. "That is a stance from which it will not waiverThose who stand on the sidelines, away from the bullets of the death or phantom squad and the ugly threats of extremists, can talkThere is, however, a battle being waged in our beloved land of Guyana It is for the freedom, survival and lives of the people." The party release emphasised that the PNCR will not give up. "A party united can withstand any gale force of lies and fabrications, and will eventually beat any enemy of truth and justice."
Golding made the remarks over the weekend at a ceremony to laud 13 Jamaican nationals at the Jamaica Consulate in Miami. `The Diaspora is too powerful not to utilize its skills and resources at home,` JIS News quoted the PM as saying. He also lauded the Jamaican Diaspora for its ongoing commitment and contribution to the country\\\'s economic development. And the PM challenged nationals to join with the government in working together in achieving common goals for the country\\\'s development. Golding said that it was proposed to look to the Diaspora for assistance in the areas focused for development. For Jamaicans abroad, he said that it would not only be a business investment, but a cultural one as well. The community service awards ceremony was part of the Prime Minister\\\'s itinerary, as he concluded a three-day visit to the South Florida Diaspora. Those honored included Dr. Ivy Claudette Armstrong, a published poet; Mayor Samuel Brown of Lauderdale Lakes; Elloreece B. Burrell, community worker in the Tampa area; Glenn Chin, NASA Mission Manager; Don Daly, media specialist; Beverly Ford, former Honorary Consul in Houston, Texas; Captain Barrington Irving, Jr., youngest and first person of African-American descent to fly solo around the world; Rev. Horace Ward of Holy Family Episcopal Church in North Miami; Joyce Wright, founder of the Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida; educators, Dr. Winston Whyte and Dr. Karl S. Wright; and cultural fore-runners, Michael and Jackie Shaw of Sunshine Theatre Company. Also recognized at the ceremony were newly appointed Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Anthony Johnson; Ambassador Dudley Thompson; newly appointed Consul General to New York, Genieve Brown-Metzger; Omari Fullerton, Honorary Consul in Houston, Texas, and former Consul General to New York, Dr. Basil Bryan.
In honor of his award, Mr. Hill will invite Yanik Quesnel, one of the kids presently staying at the House, and his family as special guests at the Luncheon. Yanik is an eighteen-year old boy who was born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago. Recently, Yanik's life was turned upside down when he was the victim of a motorboat accident while on vacation from school. Yanik suffered severe head trauma and there was little hope for his survival. Doctors tried to reduce the pressure in his head but Yanik remained in a coma for over a month. Today, with assistance from the International Kids Fund and Ronald McDonald House, Yanik has defied the odds and is well on his way to recovery. "I am humbled by this recognition, but the true purpose of the Luncheon is to highlight the extraordinary work of the Ronald McDonald House and the International Kids Fund. Yanik has inspired his family and his community with his resilience. I will bestow my honor to him for his spirit," stated Marlon Hill, partner, delancyhill, P.A.
The team headed by Dr. Richard Perryman, Director Cardiothoracic Surgery JDCH, has been volunteering with this effort for 12 years. This JCHF team is uniquely qualified to treat some of the most complex and critical medical conditions. The mission will take place at the University Hospital of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica, for which the JCHF team has received a patient list of 10 children, taken from an extensive waiting list of up to 9 years in some cases. To date the JCHF team has provided this life saving service for 125 Jamaican children. This mission has been funded by the generous support and commitment of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, Mayberry Investments Limited, Apex Medical, Peoples Telecom, American Friends of Jamaica, Superclubs, Air Jamaica, William "Bunny Rugs" Clarke, Philip & Bambi Ziadie in memory of Jordan Ziadie, Motion Dance and Fitness Centre, Jamaica Broilers, Trilogy Productions, Infinite Markets, United Way, the Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes/West Sunrise, Kiwanis Club of Cutler Bay and numerous other individual donors. The Jamaican Children's Heart Fund, is a 501c3 medical charity which means all donations are tax deductible. For more information on the upcoming mission or any details in general, please contact JCHF directly at: Email: jchfinfo@gmail.com or call 305-218-0756. For more information on the organization or how you can assist this effort, please go to JCHF's website at: www.jamaicanchildrensheartFUND.org ,
Charran, who is an Immigration Consultant and also a member of the Association of Concerned Guyanese in Toronto, said that, with the support of many concerned citizens in Canada, he was able to raise the fund. At a simple ceremony held at the Grand Coastal Inn, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, the families congregated as Charran, accompanied by his wife, Pam, and cousin, Tony Bhoodwah, expressed sadness at the January 26 massacre which claimed the lives of 11 persons, including five children. "Today, I am here on behalf of family and as President of my company, DC Documents and Immigration Services, and the Guyanese community as a whole to share with you our solidarity." Charran said that while the families have been subjected to an unfortunate and senseless ordeal, which will not be forgotten, they must make every effort to continue their lives. Recognising the great loss suffered by the families, Charran said, he saw the need to render assistance which could lend to their recovery process. But, according to him, the whole process of assistance was based on a hurried decision that led to yesterday's event. "I woke up one morning and I told my wife that I want to do something for these people, and she said she felt the same wayWe decided that we would have a fundraising event." He said that he got immense support from friends and other business persons who got involved, thus proving the venture a success. Among the contributors, Charran said, were the owners of Greens West Indian Store and Travels Caribbean Restaurant, Enmore Restaurant, Conquerors Cricket Club, and many other prominent Guyanese in Canada. "They supported this cause, and today I am able to generate a million dollars to distribute among the five families." In addition to the monetary donation, Charran said, he also brings condolences from the entire Guyanese community in Toronto. He pointed out that many may never be able to comprehend what transpired on that early January morning. Charran said that the situation, which repeated itself a few weeks later in Bartica, has served to affect the lives of all. He expressed his desire to see justice prevail, which will bring to the immediate families some level of satisfaction. And even as he promised further assistance to the families, Charran urged other entities and individuals to emulate the move made by the Canadian group. Each of the families was yesterday bestowed with $200,000 to aid their recovery process.
The award is in memory of Bernard Botein, a former presiding justice of the Appellate Division and a former president of the Association. The awards are made possible by a grant from the Ruth and Seymour Klein Foundation, Inc. This year's event will beheld on March 31st.
"I make no apologies; our bottom line to provide financial support for our athletes," Clare stated matter-of-factly. "Team Jamaica Bickle has issued a mandate to raise no less than $25,000 for our athletes this year, and with the support of our Reggae ambassadors, corporate, and individual supporters, we hope to donate triple that amount." Rich LaMotte, VP Records' Director of Promotions, announced that VP Records' Roots sensations Etana and Duane Stephenson, were the first two Reggae acts to sign on to the 'Team Jamaica on the Road to Beijing' Reggae Concert, to be held at Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, April 20th. Clare also announced that prominent Reggae crooner Richie Stephens, who also heads the Royalty Track Club in Jamaica, has also signed on to concert fundraiser. The two major headlining acts will be announced at a later date. "Team Jamaica Bickle and VP Records are challenging more of our A-list Reggae entertainers to give back to Jamaica by raising funds to give our athletes a chance to represent 'brand Jamaica' at the 26th Annual Olympic Games in Beijing, China this August," Clare stated as LaMotte nodded in agreement at the press conference, hosted by Ruder Finn in NYC." Proceeds from the staging will also go toward supporting Jamaican and Caribbean high school athletes participating in the 114th Penn Relays at the University of Pennsylvania in April, in addition to Jamaica's track and field athletes going to Beijing. All funds raised will be donated in the memory of Olympic Gold Medal Track & Field legend Herb McKenley. Team Jamaica Bickle marketing coordinator Wycliffe Robinson announced the Team Jamaica Bickle tag drive, urging local Caribbean businesses to put 'Team Jamaica on the Road to Beijing" canisters in their corporate and business offices, encouraging the general public to make donations to the cause. Camille McDonald, of America's Next Model fame, who signed on as a spokeswoman for the 'Team Jamaica on the Road to Beijing' campaign, vowed to use her celebrity status to attract support from mainstream celebrity, media, and corporate entities. McDonald is of Jamaican parentage. "BET, MTV, VH1, and other major needs to be apart of this cause, and I am really honored to be part of this initiative and to use my celebrity to make then and aware and supportive," stated McDonald at the press conference. Among the guests were Deputy Consul General of Jamaica Lisa Bryant-Smart; Mrs. Sharon Wolfe, wife of Ambassador Raymond Wolfe; Louis Grant, Vice President of Irie Jam Media, Garfield Comrie of Western Union/Grace Kennedy Remittance Services, Ann-Marie Grant, Executive Director of the American Foundation of the University of the West Indies; emcee for the evening Aubrey Campbell, Jamaica Information Service attaché; Sabrina Hosang, Director of Operations, Caribbean Food Delights; Roland Brammer, Vice President of the Union of Jamaica Alumni Association, and New York based Reggae artists Benny Bwoy, Lynx, and Far-I. For the past 14 years, Team Jamaica Bickle has provided necessary financial support and services to Jamaican and Caribbean high school athletes participating in the annual Penn Relays track and field competition. Support offered by TJB includes subsidized travel and accommodations, meals, ground transportation, and athletic scholarships to outstanding high school track and field athletes. Past Team Jamaica Bickle alums include Olympic Gold Medalist Veronica Campbell, often dubbed one of the world's fastest women; Olympic Gold Medalist Sherone Simpson; World Championship Silver Medalist Usain "Lightening" Bolt; and Olympian Aileen Bailey, sister of Dancehall legend Capleton.
The graduating class of 2008 at North Miami Sr. High School will have an opportunity to learn about the Caribbean through interactive presentations on art, film and music. Each of CAHFI'S educational workshops presented throughout the year feature a different island. The culture of Trinidad and Tobago will be highlighted in the upcoming presentation. There will be a performance by the Florida Memorial University Steel Band, headed by Dr. Dawn Batson. The Hon. Gerard Greene, Consul General of Trinidad and Tobago, Miami Florida will also address students in a question and answer session. The program will also include the showing of a Caribbean Film, a live performance by the musical group Crossovah and a carnival presentation by Miami Carnival 2007 "Band of the Year", Generation X. The Caribbean American Heritage Foundation Inc. (CAHFI) is a not-for-profit corporation incorporated in the State of Florida to develop, promote and sustain awareness and recognition of Caribbean-Americans and their contribution to the United States of America
To give vent to their feeling and out of concern for the security of the State and safety of Guyanese, leaders of the Christian, Hindu and Muslim religions living in the United States organised and held a successful Interfaith Prayer Service last Saturday in New York, in which they prayed for all those who lost their loved ones in the massacre, the injured and those who care for them. Following the Prayer Service, the three religious bodies issued a joint statement in which they recognise the huge public outcry as Guyanese try to come to grips with the recent events. The leaders said that their first concern in planning for the Interfaith Prayer Service was for the families who suffered so dreadfully as a result of the unprovoked and heinous attacks. They also expressed the hope that in God's eternal love and mercy, the families of those slaughtered will discover the strength and resource to continue life in a meaningful manner. The Clergymen also prayed for the entire Guyanese people, and urged the nation not to feel trapped or paralyzed by fear, but rather be free to affirm life and the bond of friendship and independence among all Guyanese. The release concluded that the event was not a 'Preaching Service', nor was it a time for leaders, whether religious or political to make speeches, but rather 'a Prayer Service' and a time for the Guyanese people in the US and Guyana to come boldly before God's throne and find help in the time of need.
The event, which was set against the backdrop of the colourful splendour of the Golden Arrowhead and the American flag, was officiated by Guyana's Ambassador to Washington, His Excellency, Bayney Karran who seized the opportunity to commend his fellow Guyanese on flying their flag high in New York over the years and at the same time to denounce the crime wave that has gripped the homeland. He also thanked CARICOM for rendering its assistance in past disasters, such as the 2005 floods. He said, however, that it was rather unfortunate that their meeting that evening was less than propitious. "Unfortunately, at this time, new challenges have emerged. Marauding criminal gangs, distinguished for their brutality, have committed acts of murder and robbery, striking terror in the hearts of several communities, and spreading fear in the land. "This is posing serious challenges to the capacity of the security forces to safeguard our communities and imperiling the level of stability needed for social economic development," Ambassador Karran said, adding that the time was opportune for all Guyanese to give their unreserved support to the forces of law and order so they could effectively take our country back from the criminals. In obvious reference to the matter at hand, this being the gathering to celebrate our republic anniversary, he said: "This is the best way to honor the victims and show solidarity with their families. It is befitting an occasion of national significance such as this, that tonight, Guyanese from the various sectors of our community have gathered to celebrate this 38th Anniversary of the Republic in a unified manner. This is a timely development and display of unity that will be welcomed by all". He went on to say that "unity cannot be built without effort and perseverance, and I urge all those in positions of leadership in our community to cast aside divisiveness and work towards this goal." Ambassador Karran also reminded those Guyanese present about the struggles the nation faced before finally achieving freedom from foreign rule, and urged them not to succumb to divisiveness and fall into the trap of the criminals whose atrocities are designed to exploit disagreements among the people of Guyana. Stating that Guyanese are a resilient people, he said: "We will overcome this latest adversity as we have overcome sterner tests along our journey to nationhood. We must harbour no doubt that peace will soon be restored and order will prevail." Queens Borough President, Helen Marshall, who partnered with Editor and CEO, Shanie Persaud, and the Crown Plaza to host the event, and whose parents were Guyanese, said that even though she was born in America, she never forgot where she came from. She told the gathering that it was the strength they brought to America that created people like her and others like herself. "We came from a strong background, and we are a people who believe in God and education, and climbing as high as we could go." The intellectuals, and members of the Diplomatic Corp, and the press, listened intently during a particularly lighthearted moment as former Ambassador to South Africa, Leland Harewood, reminded his fellow Guyanese how they used to party come every February 23, during Masharamani - a celebration of floats, parades, masquerade bands and dancing in the streets to steelband and calypso music. The evening was indeed a show of unity and patriotism as respected composer and pianist, Hugh Sam, rendered a medley of national songs, while the poet, James Richmond drew loud applause for his stirring composition that described the beauty of his native land. Manager of Cultural Affairs at the Crown Plaza, Shanie Persaud, called on the guests to continue to foster better, stronger, relationships for a stronger more untied Guyana. She also expressed her gratitude to Director of Sales, Kathleen Petit, and the Management of the Crown Plaza Hotel La Guardia; the Hon. Brentnold Evans, Guyana Consulate General to New York; the Hon. Dr. Harold Robertson, Consulate General of Trinidad and Tobago to New York; the Hon. Felix Augustin, Consulate General of Haiti to New York; and Al Pensini, President of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. She also acknowledged Guyanese Dr. Vincent Adams from Washington DC; Dr. Arthur Ingram Hazelwood; Errol Hazelwood of CBS; Dr. Ivelaw Griffith, Provost/Snr. VP Academic Affairs at York College; The Guyana Cultural Association coordinators of the annual Guyana Folk Festival; and the St. Stanislaus, Bishops, Queen's, and St. Roses Alumni Associations. |