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DECEMBER 2012

An eventful year... Cover Images Editor-in-Chief: Gina Tulloch-Adams Co-Editor: Abigail Henry Research & Planning: Anna Hastings Contributing Writers: Gary Adams Wesley Boynes Nancy Burke Virginia Burke Mahek Chatani Devon Evans Shenoda Foreman Matthew Gore Abigail Henry Joseph Issa Cassanie McKenzie Lenneth Richards Elizabeth Smith Gina Tulloch-Adams Photography: Selections by Alain Hottat Photography www.jamaicashoots.com Alan Smith Photography http://asmithphotojam.zenfolio.com/ Virginia Burke Graphic Design: Dick Gruenwald Associates Printer: Print Pelican Publisher: Home Sweet Jamaica is an independent publication by: Sunfloral PO Box 4513, St. Ann's Bay Saint Ann, Jamaica WI Phone: (876) 974-2505 International: (954) 288-9091 Fax: (954) 337-3369 info@homesweetjamaica.com www.homesweetjamaica.com To contact the Editor: editor@homesweetjamaica.com Subscriptions: Subscriptions@homesweetjamaica.com Home Sweet Jamaica Magazine is a free publication. Subsequent issues will be available online or through subscriptions for the cost of shipping and handling. Advance ordering for bulk shipping to corporate locations is recommended to ensure availability.

Advertising: advertise@homesweetjamaica.com Home Sweet Jamaica (ISSN 0799-3382) is published quarterly by Sunfloral, PO Box 4513, St. Ann’s Bay, Saint Ann, Jamaica. All rights reserved. Contents ©2012 by Sunfloral. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Clockwise from top left to right:

‘Proudly Celebrating’ Jamaica 50 Image provided by the Jamaica 50 Secretariat; an arm of the Ministry of Youth and Culture with a mandate to plan, organize, and execute the events to celebrate Jamaica’s Golden Jubilee. The Secretariat works closely with government and private sector organisations to endorse many events and celebrations at home and abroad, including: the JDF Tattoo 2012; Emancipation Jubilee 2012; Jamaica 50 Ottawa; and Jamaica House 2012 in London. The ‘Proudly Celebrating’ designation and ‘A Nation On A Mission’ slogan are the property of the Jamaica 50 Secretariat. Men’s 200m Medal Ceremony 2012 London Olympics (L-R): Yohan ‘The Beast’ Blake, Usain Bolt, and Warren Weir Image provided by the Jamaica Gleaner Library Services. The Gleaner Company Limited has been publishing newspapers since 1834. The Library & Archive is a rich source of information and a valuable national treasure. Performer at Jamaica 50 Independence Day Grand Gala The 2012 Grand Gala was presented by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC). The JCDC is an agency of the Ministry of Youth and Culture with responsibility for National Celebratory and Commemorative Events as well as the National Festival of the Arts to unearth, develop and showcase local creative artistic expressions. Images provided by the JCDC. A Fire-Breather performs at the Jamaica 50 Golden Jubilee Village The Golden Jubilee Village was staged at Independence Park in St. Andrew. Organised by the Jamaica 50 Secretariat, the Jubilee Village included booths and displays by artists, vendors and sponsors. The six-day period of activities, performances and displays culminated on August 6 with the Grand Gala. Image provided by the JCDC. The Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey O.J. Jamaica National Hero Home Sweet Jamaica joins in celebrating the 125th anniversary of the birth of Marcus Garvey – Jamaica’s first national hero. Garvey Day was celebrated in Jamaica on Friday August 17, 2012. Women’s 4x100m Relay Team at Medal Ceremony 2012 London Olympics (L-R): Sherone Simpson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Veronica CampbellBrown, and Kerron Stewart Image provided by the Jamaica Gleaner Library Services. Home Sweet Jamaica Magazine Inaugural Issue In August 2012, Home Sweet Jamaica was proud to present its inaugural issue. In this auspicious ‘Year of the Jamaican’, we are pleased to commemorate 50 years as an independent nation with this celebration of Jamaica’s Culture and Independent Spirit. We give thanks to God for His blessings and to you, our readers and supporters, for your enthusiastic and encouraging reception. A young celebrant at the Jamaica 50 Independence Golden Jubilee Village Image provided by the JCDC. Dancers perform at the Golden Jubilee Village Image provided by JCDC. Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

CONTENTS On a personal note

Gina Tulloch-Adams

Sweet Jamaica: Celebrating the Next Generation

Wesley Boynes

A Tale of Christmas Cakes and Puddings

Virginia Burke

Christmas Jamaican Style

Nancy Burke

Christmas Grog

Virginia Burke

â€œJonkunnu A Comeâ€?

Lenneth Richards and Elizabeth Smith

Sandra (Sandy) Walters

Gary Adams

The National Gallery of Jamaica

Nancy Burke

On a Mission

Cassanie McKenzie

A Higher Wind in Jamaica

Nancy Burke

Food for the Poor: Building Villages

Gina Tulloch-Adams

For the Love of Chocolate

Mahek Chatani

Olympic Hope

Abigail Henry

Homegrown Success

Jason Sharp

Jamaican Drivers

Matthew Gore

Sustainable Agriculture at Potosi Farms

Adam Miller

Marcus Mosiah Garvey

Devon Evans

Jamaican and Diaspora Relations

Joseph Issa

Fi di pickney dem Shenoda Foreman

On a personal note… For many, December is a time of reflection and hope. As we consider the past, we examine it for the lessons learned; promises fulfilled; and anticipate with excitement (and maybe a little trepidation) the potential that the upcoming year holds. 2012 was an eventful year for Jamaica. We celebrated the achievements of our athletes at the Olympics; our 50 years of independence; 500 years of Christianity; important recognition for our national heroes; and we paid tribute to those we lost along the way. This year, I lost one of my personal heroes, Billy Vernon, who taught me some of life’s great lessons. When I was six years old, he placed me on a horse and with one hard slap to the horse’s behind, he taught me how to ride. With my arms and legs flailing, the thrilling feeling was soon replaced by fear. I remember how he chased after me on his white horse as we sped down a seemingly endless Ironshore Boulevard. But, it was never his intent to rescue me. Instead, he bellowed instructions on how to rein the horse in, “Pull both reins back as hard as you can,” he commanded, “Show the horse that you are in charge!” That day, I unwittingly learned that sometimes in life, when you least expect it, fun can get interrupted by danger; but if you hold on firmly enough, you can often find the strength to rescue yourself. And, if warranted, screaming

at the top of your lungs is a completely acceptable response during these life lessons. Although it took some time for this lesson to become ingrained, it eventually became second nature for me to move immediately toward solutions in lieu of wallowing endlessly in misery. I think this quality makes me a ‘true Jamaican’. There is a level of survival instinct in all of us, which is inevitably accompanied by hope. I am not alone in my belief that no matter what life throws at us, there are solutions that we should actively pursue. When life is going by too fast, perhaps we should pull the reins back as hard as we can in order to spend time with those in our lives who matter. At other times, we may need to take charge and forge our own destinies; those of our own visions and creation. We have great heroes among us, but we also have the power to be heroes to ourselves and others. We are a nation of visionaries and if all else fails, we will hold on tight to our dreams and let our voices be heard; loudly, in unison, and if necessary, in song. Please enjoy our Christmas issue. Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year. R.I.P. BV Blessings, Gina Tulloch-Adams Editor in Chief

From all of us at Home Sweet Jamaica Magazine Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Sweet Jamaica: Celebrating The Next Generation When I left Trinidad to come to Jamaica to study, I had no idea that Jamaica would become my home. I came to Jamaica on August 27, 1990 and immediately fell in love with the warmth and welcoming nature of people, the culture, and the vibes of the nation. Five years later, I got married to a very cool Kingstonian girl, Angella, who I had met on the campus of Christ for the Nations in Montego Bay. Our marriage has since produced three lovely children; my eldest daughter, Rinnah and twins, Jabulani and Jodi-Lani. Each trip away from Jamaica, even to my native land, sees me looking forward â€œfi come back a yaad.â€? In Jamaica, I have developed a real passion for the young people, the children, and the babies of Jamaica and for their development. There is something very, very special about them all. There is something in their eyes which I 6

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

cannot really describe that speaks to hope, greatness and destiny. This is the best I can do to articulate and describe what I see and feel any time I interface with the children of Jamaica. From the beginning, I have been blessed to be involved in numerous outreaches to the youth here. During my time in Montego Bay, I was involved in an outreach program in a depressed area called Railway Lane under the auspices of Family Church on the Rock, Montego Bay. We taught the underprivileged youths to read, write and the importance of basic social skills. It was a wonderful experience. I was also one of the founding team who worked towards establishing Teen Challenge whose mandate of helping persons addicted to drugs was very appealing to me. This was just the beginning. Continued on next page

Angella and I moved to Ocho Rios in 1997 and we took up the leadership of the Northgate Family Church, now known as the Northgate Centre for Global Impact. There was a strong emphasis on youth development and family empowerment and the core members of the church were mostly young people and children. We later joined the World Breakthrough Network, now Congress-WBN, a global faithbased organization focused on ethical initiatives for the development of nations. We conducted numerous outreaches and initiatives for youths around St. Ann, St Mary, Kingston, and Trelawny. We ‘adopted’ several schools ranging from basic schools to high schools. We also did extensive work with the HEART Trust National Training Agency, the government training and certification Agency here in Jamaica. After a lot of intense work of youth empowerWesley Boynes of the Northgate Youth and Family Development Foundation ment, parent development initiatives, family empowerment seminars, and youth leadership seminars the church launched the charity entity called The Northgate Youth and Family Development Foundation (NYFDF). The NYFDF, now registered to the EMPOWER Sector of Congress WBN, is the result of more than 11 years of involvement in the youth development sector and was incorporated as a charitable organization under the Company Act of Jamaica 2004 on July 2, 2008. The Vision of the NYFDF is “Empowering Parents... Developing Youths… Defining the Future…” The work of the NYFDF is accomplished with the help of more than 100 volunteers who I believe form the most excellent Volunteer Team on the planet! They share my passion for this nation’s youth and belief in their destiny. They are always willing to go the extra mile and are extremely willing, hard-working, humble, fun loving and totally committed people who contribute their vacation time, money, energy, creativity and other resources. They are the best and I give God thanks for them. We have been able to stage meaningful interactions with over 25 schools around the island from Kingston to Montego Bay which include parenting seminars, youth leadership development workshops, pre-term seminars for teachers, character development workshops, school board development initiatives, gender-based initiatives, School interchange initiatives as well as group and individual counselling sessions. Every experience is a learning one filled with excitement and fun. Continued on next page

We aim to develop wellrounded and educated leaders who will positively impact every sphere of society and function effectively in a global environment.

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

As a result of our interactions with the schools we have come to recognize that our children are exposed to a deceptive values system and are in need of a positive and nurturing learning environment that are not overcrowded or polluted with negative influencers. The Northgate High School (NHS) was designed and opened in September 2012 to develop leaders of pristine values and character. The NHS seeks to provide a sound educational environment and experience for generations of young leaders, using a values-and-ethics based framework in order to ensure that they are motivated by purpose and empowered to fulfil their personal destiny. We aim to develop well-rounded and educated leaders who will positively impact every sphere of society and function effectively in a global environment. Our watch words are Personal and Corporate Integrity, Discipline, Consistency, Servanthood, Excellence, Godliness, Vision, Collaboration, Commitment, and Equity. In light of the fact that our school is a private high school, we recognize we will naturally be regarded as a domain for the rich and wealthy. We continue to actively put systems in place to ensure that NHS does not become an exclusive institution. We are building an inclusive culture where youths of all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds have equal opportunities here. This led us a step further to the birth of the Northgateâ€™s Future Leaders Scholarship Fund. This Fund will offer full or partial scholarships to ensure that no financially-challenged child with leadership Wesley Boynes with his wife Angella, and children Rinnah, potential is denied the opportunity of Jabulani, and Jodi-Lani receiving leadership training. The Northgate Future Leaders Scholarship Fund will be officially launched in December 2012 at our Annual Awards Banquet honouring the Teachers of schools with which we work. This is the time we set aside yearly to come together, celebrate and laude the hard work of our family and the heroes of the Jamaican education system with whom we work and to begin our Christmas celebrations. Jamaica has become my home and I will continue to work diligently with other Jamaicans and interested parties to make this the safe and empowering home for our children to grow up and attain their destiny as our journey continues.

For more information: The Northgate Youth and Family Development Foundation #1 White River, Exchange, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, WI Box 612, Ocho Rios, Jamaica Author: Wesley Boynes Wesley_boynes@northgateglobal.com www.northgatehigh.org Phone: (876) 974-8616

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

A Tale of Christmas Cakes and Puddings Some readers might well recall, the fuss about soaking fruit in time for Christmas pudding. My Mum was considered “late” if she waited until December to get the requisite dried fruit soaking in rum, brandy or sweet ruby wine. Within her group of sisters, there seemed to be an annual competition to see who could come closest to my grandmother’s pudding. On pudding day, our whole family would get involved. We helped Mum with creaming the sugar, mixing and stirring. It was traditional for each of us to give the batter a stir, for good luck. This event always prompted offers of help to “clean up” which was really our way of creating an opportunity to lick the yabba, the wooden spoon, the spatula and anything else which held a taste of batter. Mum was totally pre-occupied with lining pans, cooking temperatures, timing, making string contraptions to lift the puddings into and out of the pot of water and making flour and water paste to prevent the bubbling water from ever

again seeping into the covered pan while the puddings steamed. She always made one pudding for company, sometimes a cake, occasionally a pudding as a gift and always, a little experimental one, just for us. The task was tedious and most years she apologized demurely for either for the texture or the taste, but her puddings and cakes were always delicious. To me it seemed like such a daunting process that when it was finally my turn to “do Christmas” I quickly forsook family tradition and opted to purchase either a cake or a pudding from a reliable source. Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Well, that’s how it was until I discovered a recipe for a Christmas cake from Nigella Lawson, who couldn’t bother with all the soaking and fuss either. Having made my Jamaican tweaks to the recipe, it has become my own ritual. I love, love the moist richness and relative ease of bringing the full essence of Christmas flavours, to the table. Like Mum, I now try to make at least 2 each year and for all the same reasons.

Moist and Easy Christmas Cake Forget about electric mixers, bowls, elbow grease and months of soaking fruit. This “hurry-come-up” cake will surprise you with it’s depth of flavour and moreish texture. Feel free to adjust the choice of fruit, jams, liquor and nuts to your taste.

Ingredients: 6 cups mixed dried fruit choose from – golden raisins, currants, seedless prunes, citron, glace cherries, cutup crystallized ginger and figs if you can find some. 1 1⁄2 cups mixed glace fruit (reserved for decorating) 1 1⁄2 sticks unsalted butter 1 1⁄2 cups brown sugar 1 1⁄2 cup local fruit jam or spread (not too sweet) or use honey 1 ⁄4 cup red rum 1 ⁄4 cup brandy Juice and zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 lemon (or lime) 1 tsp almond extract 3 large eggs, beaten 1 2⁄3 cups all-purpose flour 1 ⁄2 teaspoon baking powder 1 ⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon 1 ⁄4 teaspoon allspice 1 ⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 ⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg For Glazing the top: 3 tbsp rum brandy or sweet wine, 4 tbsp Guava Jam or Jelly, 1⁄2 cup blanched cashew nuts (or other nuts except peanuts), 1 1⁄2 cups (reserved as above) mixed glace fruit.

Method: ✸ Put the 6 cups dried fruit, butter sugar, fruit jam, rum, brandy, orange juice, zests, almond extract into a large saucepan, stir and heat gradually until the butter melts. Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. ✸ Remove from heat and let stand for half an hour until cooled. ✸ Meanwhile, preheat oven to 300F. 10

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

✸ Grease and line an 8 inch cake pan (bottom and sides), with a double layer of wax paper, making the sides a little higher than the pan. ✸ Make a shield of brown paper for the outside of the pan. Fold and cut a double layer of paper, making it twice as high as the pan sides. ✸ Stir the cooled fruit mixture and mix in the beaten egg, flour, baking powder and spices until blended. ✸ Pour the mixture into the lined baking pan. ✸ Tie the brown paper around it with natural (not nylon) string. This will protect the top of the cake and prevent it drying out or burning at the top. ✸ Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes or up to 2 hours until done. The top should be dry and cracked, but the middle will still be sticky if you insert a knife. ✸ Remove from heat and allow to cool thoroughly before removing from pan. ✸ The cake can be made ahead. Store it wrapped in wax paper and foil, in a dark, cool place. ✸ If you wish you can stick holes in the top with a skewer and pour on a splash of booze (rum, brandy or orange liquor). ✸ When ready to serve, melt Guava Jelly in a sauce pan with a spoonful of water to thin. Cool a little then brush the glaze on top of the cake. Decorate with a single layer of nuts and cut up, mixed dried fruit. Brush on another layer of guava jelly. This will make it shine. ✸ If stored carefully, and guarded around the clock, it could last for weeks! For more information: Author: Virginia Burke virginia.e.burke@gmail.com Phone: (876) 850-8482 Photos: Virginia Burke

Christmas

Jamaican Style In the West Indies, every Christmas is A time for all to smile There’s no winter time, there’s just sweet sunshine At Christmas Jamaican Style Unique Vision ‘Christmas Jamaican Style’ For Jamaicans, there is no holiday more exciting than Christmas. As we hit October, you can count on hearing carols and Christmas songs on the radio and seeing decorated Christmas trees popping up here and there. The hyper-commercialized, consumption-oriented holiday traditions of our neighbours to the north are just not in our experience. We are a spiritual people, and don’t shy away from openly celebrating the real reason for the season. For us, Christmas is about family, fellowship, and of course, FOOD! Members of the Jamaican diaspora flock home to all 14 parishes, bringing their friends and families to celebrate “JAMAICAN CHRISTMAS”, in its abundant and joyful style. Needless to say, if you haven’t booked your flight yet, we wish you all the best in trying to secure a seat! While it is true that some older traditions, like Jonkunnu, are sadly no longer as popular as they once were, the spirit Christmas ‘Jamaican style’ endures in the hearts of Jamaicans all over the world.

12 Steps to a Jamaican Christmas 1) Plum Pudding / Christmas Cake with rum or brandy sauce – Hell a’ top, hell a’ bottom, HALLELUJAH in the middle! 2) Sorrel – Even though it’s now available year round, the big simmering pot of crimson gingery, goodness would melt any grinch’s heart. 3) Clean and Cris’ up – Clean-up is a big part of the prep for a real Christmas. Every crevice must be scoured and painted. Lawns mowed and manicured, bushes tamed, and curbs whitewashed. New drapes, cushions and rugs adorn smartly decorated houses, decked out with pepper lights.

4) Grand Market – Children save up their money to fill their pockets with peppermints, pinda (peanut) and grater cakes, and balloons. Street dancing, firecrackers, crafts and music keep the party going all night. 5) Christmas Concerts and Parties – Whether at church, school or work, you can’t escape the dancing, singing, and merry-making of the Christmas concert. Come One! Come All! 6) Visiting with Neighbours Whether they’re just down the road or across the pond, Jamaicans ‘sen greetins’ to loved ones all over. Big ups to Auntie Mavis and Precious!! 7) Christmas Dinner – Now this is a serious thing. You don’t joke when it comes to the roast pork, green gungo peas and rice, roast yam and breadfruit, and the Christmas ham! 8) Egg Nog or Rum Punch – Perfect for washing down that delicious Christmas dinner. 9) Christmas Clothes – Time to pretty-pretty! Jamaicans put on their very best at Christmastime. 10) Nature in celebration – November’s light rains bring the lush green grass, beautiful white euphorbia and the stunning red poinsettia that make Christmas in Jamaica the most beautiful in the world. 11) Christmas Service / Midnight Mass – Whether you’re staying out late or waking up at the crack of dawn, find your way to Christmas service to sing your favourite carols and ring those Christmas bells. 12) Christmas breeze – There can be no doubt that when that cool ‘Chrismus’ breeze blows from the hills, it blows right into your soul. We wish you a Merry Christmas, Jamaican Style!

Author: Nancy Burke inansi@cwjamaica.com

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Photo by Virginia Burke

Christmas Grog As children, our Christmas mornings always began very early. With a gentle shake we’d be awoken to get dressed. Clothes which had been laid out the night before were hurriedly put on in the dark morning. As our sleepy state gradually transformed into one of anticipation and excitement we were bundled out of the house without a chance to verify if Santa had made an addition to the bounty under our Christmas tree. All that would have to wait until after our joyful carol singing at the 5 am service, in Half Way Tree, at the St. Andrew Parish Church. Back home in the early morning, we still had to hang on as it was our family tradition to wait for the arrival of Dad’s brother before any presents could be unwrapped. Uncle Dudley would skip church, but always join us for our early Christmas breakfast of creamy scrambled eggs on toast. This breakfast, though simple, was special as it was always kicked off with a pretty glass cup of Mum’s warm, freshly made, eggnog. This frothy cup of heaven was as close to a modern “cappuccino” as we had ever come. Naturally we kids did not get the full ration of rum or brandy that the adults had in theirs, but it was a once-a-year deal and always superb.

V’s Eggnog Serves 6-8 4 large eggs, at room temperature 2/3 cup caster sugar 2 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream 1 ⁄2 cup rum or brandy 1 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg (plus little more on top to serve) ✦ Separate eggs. Beat whites until soft peaks have formed. Reserve. ✦ Warm milk, cream, nutmeg and sugar until just hot enough to dissolve sugar. ✦ Beat yolks until pale, then add boze. With beaters still going, add just a little milk to temper. Then add that back to the rest of the milk. (If it is too hot, the eggs will cook). ✦ Fold in the egg whites. ✦ Pour into glasses and serve warm, topping with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Or, if you prefer, chill thoroughly before serving. Cook’s note: This can all be done in the blender, but use half the recipe to prevent splashing with the hot milk. Use the freshest eggs. For more information: Author: Virginia Burke virginia.e.burke@gmail.com Phone: (876) 850-8482

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

â€œJONKUNNU A COMEâ€? (Jonkonnu/Jonkunnu/Jonkunoo/John Canoe)

Bands of masqueraders of varying masked characters colourfully costumed, dancing and prancing showing off their unique movements and acrobatic skills, perform at interval stops as they parade through the streets. The eclectic dance expressions are done to the melodious music emanating from a small fife made from bamboo with the rhythms of the bass and rattle saddle corded drums carried on the shoulder and played with sticks; a captivating rustic sound very distinctive from other ritual folk music. Each character has its own significance and unique detailed costume. Props are important to enhance costumes and to create distinction. Over the years, new characters have been added reflecting the changing times. We now have Pitchy Patchy, Satan/Devil, Belly Woman, Jockey, Policeman, Horse Head, Cow Head, Wild Indian, Red Indian, Sailor & Shaggy, Bush Doctor, and Baby Doll among others. Jonkunnu is an accepted and respected artistic part of our vibrant heritage. The Jamaican Traditional Folk Form called Jonkunnu is said to be the result of a combination of the practices and beliefs that our African ancestors brought with them to the Caribbean. In Bermuda, it is referred to as Goombay, Jumbies in Barbados, Masquerade in Guyana, Ra Ra in Haiti and ole Mas in Trinidad. Jonkunnu was kept alive through competitions held on the sugar estates throughout Jamaica. Continued on next page 14

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Jonkunnu like kumina (African retention) has been one of Jamaica’s oldest but more secular traditional folk forms dating back to the period leading up to Emancipation in 1838. Jonkonnu was an immensely popular Christmas and New Year’s Day parade enjoyed and supported by both master and slave; and was led by a principal character called ’Jonkunnu’. Jonkunnu can be traced back to the ‘free’ time given to the slaves during the Christmas holidays. Jonkunnu performances occurred between Christmas and New Year as the slaves celebrated their ‘freedom’ with dances and great festivities. The presentation is that of a masquerade with participants performing mimes. This was a time for the coming together of both the slaves and masters in a kind of harmonious festive setting; even though it was an opportunity for the slaves to disguise, imitate and satirize their masters. There were different groups or ‘bands’ of masqueraders some with their own leaders adding to the spectacle that Jonkunnu became. Among the different bands were the Set Girls with their own ‘Queen’ or ‘Madam’ who were the only females as all other characters were heavily masked males with bodies well covered so that no one could recognize them. Jonkunnu costumed dancers perform at Christmas and New Year as well as national holidays like Emancipation and Independence Day celebrations organized and coordinated by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (J.C.D.C.). They also perform at special events such as the JCDC’s Children’s Jonkunnu Competition, Culture Day in schools across the island organized by the Ministry of Education, cultural functions organized by the private sector, and on important state visits. To date, there are many documented facts about Jonkunnu to educate those who may never get a chance to see it in its authentic form. The JCDC has provided a platform to expose Jamaican children to this particular folk form through its Children’s Jonkunnu Competition which buttress efforts for the preservation of Jonkunnu in Jamaica. Jonkunnu is one of the folk forms in Jamaica that has a great impact on our popular forms which is based on very unique creative movements performed by our youths competing in the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s annual World Reggae Dance Championship Competition as well as in the Dance Hall realm. Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

To the credit of the JCDC, this country is stronger and the cultural landscape is even more vibrant.

JCDC Spotlight Vision Global Centre for Cultural Excellence

Mission To enhance national development through cultural practices by creating opportunities that unearth, develop, preserve and promote creative talents and expressions of the Jamaican people. This will be achieved in an innovative and creative manner through professional and responsive staff collaborating with all stakeholders. What a Bam Bam! It is Festival Time! The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) an agency of the Ministry of Youth and Culture is a premier national cultural institution that contributes significantly to the development and preservation of Jamaicaâ€™s rich and unique cultural heritage. Its stint in cultural development since 1963 (then Festival Office) has helped to swell patriotism and foster transformational values and attitudes through its festival programmes building a better Jamaica. Its long tradition of cultural excellence has been carved as a cultural household name in Jamaica. Today, the JCDC is implementing innovative strategies to remain a major player in cultural development in Jamaica and to enhance Brand Jamaica for the world to see and experience. A plethora of cultural based activities are staged annually for island wide participation of all individuals and community groups. These programmes include: the National Festival of the Performing Arts, (Speech, Music, Traditional Continued on next page

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Folk Forms, Dance and Drama) the Entertainment Arts (Jamaica Gospel Song Competition, Jamaica Childrenâ€™s Gospel Song Competition, Miss Jamaica Festival Queen Competition, Jamaica Festival Song Competition and the World Reggae Dance Championship), Culinary Arts, National Visual Arts & Exhibition, plus the Jamaica Creative Writing Competition and Exhibition. A critical component to these programmes is the training mechanism and sensitization sessions that allow for talent and professional development for all its participants. Separate from the festival based programmes, the JCDC coordinates through the prowess of their Events Management division, organizing and implementing many national functions of the highest quality. Some of these include: National Heritage Week activities, National commemorative Church Services, Independence celebrations and Salute to the National Heroes. The Commission also provides lead production support for state visits and Prime Minister swearing in ceremonies. These programmes provide tremendous opportunities for all Jamaicans to develop and expose their creative talents. As such, these profound outlets for creative expression and economic self reliance will continue to build the creative and cultural industries which are prime sources for national economic earnings and revitalization. To the credit of the JCDC, this country is stronger and the cultural landscape is even more vibrant. Wherever you go throughout Jamaica, the work of the Commission reverberates, shaping the lives of many and building a cadre of men and women who are committed to the land of our birth.

For more information: Jamaica Cultural Development Commission Authors: Lenneth Richards, Traditional Folk Forms Specialist Elizabeth Smith, Research Officer library@jcdc.gov.jm www.jcdc.gov.jm www.jcdcjamaica.com Phone: (876) 926-5726

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Sandra (Sandy) Walters A positive thread, making a difference Making a positive difference in the lives of the needy and the most destitute of our society has been the long term effort and goal in life for Sandra Dennis-Walters. Born in Kingston, January 6, 1952 and the fourth of twelve children, Ms. Walters grew up in a family that faced the challenges of tight budgets and doing without many of the luxuries in life. Her father, a carpenter by trade and her mother a florist worked together to support and raise a family focused on being happy despite their financial circumstances. Exposure to the outside world was very limited in the early years for Sandy as the family focus revolved around school, church, and the occasional family outing. Early in life Sandy took on the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings as the older children in the family left home in pursuit of there adult lives. This became the start of her evolution of caring for others and grew into her passion for helping those in need. 18

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

From her humble beginnings, Sandy was motivated to achieve big things in life. She worked hard and set goals to gain the financial means to better her quality of life. Her personal goals early on were to become a teacher, have four children, own a two story home adjacent to a stream with plenty of land to support the vast variety of fruits she loved so much, and of course a nice car to drive. With hard work and dedication, most of Sandyâ€™s dreams have evolved into reality. At the age of 19, Sandy relocated to the parish of St. Ann. Early on, Sandy worked as a switchboard operator and keeping focused on her goals, she subsequently became the owner of Columbus Cottages located in Priory, St. Ann. As a member of the Roman Catholic Church, Sandy donates much of her time to many volunteer projects and Continued on next page

continues her dream of being a teacher through the ministry of her faith to the children of her community. Her initial teaching skills were honed as the first female scuba diver instructor in the Caribbean educating many students including those that visit yearly from Hofstra University. Sandy’s passion for helping those in need has evolved over the years. Understanding that she has limitations on what she can achieve individually and that the benefits of her work and the help afforded to the needy of our society could be enhanced, she has honed her skills as an intermediary to involve others in her life’s work. She says her community has provided substantial support in assisting her to care for people in crisis over the years. She is proud to say that through her personal donations and the help of others she has facilitated an ongoing list of support to her community that includes feeding the homeless, building houses, paying school fees, purchasing medications, burying the dead, raising funds for a child’s heart surgery, and much more. In 2012 Sandy received the Governor General’s Achievement Award for her long standing efforts of helping those in difficult circumstances. Sandy is a life support for the communities of St Ann. For the last fifteen years, every Wednesday morning and on public holidays you can find Sandy feeding the homeless on the streets of St. Ann’s Bay. She notes and is most fulfilled by the fact that her consistent efforts have prompted other citizens in the community to do the same. Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Along with the support of others in providing food for the homeless Sandy has witnessed a positive change in the way these most needy of our population are treated, helpful and caring attitudes have replaced scorn and ridicule that was often the norm. While Sandy acknowledges she has been very instrumental in helping those in need she also is quick to note and is very appreciative for the support of others in her efforts as well as the individual work from the citizens of our community to help those in a state of despair. Sandy’s efforts epitomize the significance of being a positive “thread” within our shared community. The THREAD Foundation, along with the greater community of St. Ann’s Bay, proudly recognize and appreciate Sandy’s consistent work, generous attitude, and life sustaining support provided to our fellow men, women, and children in crisis. THREAD supports the Sandy’s efforts and urges those individuals that can provide help in the way of food, clothing, monetary donations, or donations of their time to contact her at (876) 850-3009 or sandravwalters@hotmail.com. For more information: The THREAD Foundation Author: Gary Adams www.thethreadfoundation.org Phone: (876) 974-2505

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

The National Gallery of Jamaica 2012 National Biennial Exhibition It would be a mistake to miss the National Biennial 2012 exhibition at the National Gallery of Jamaica (NGJ). The Biennial showcases pieces submitted by Jamaican artists from all over the world, including some of Jamaica's best-known artists who have been invited by the NGJ to submit new works. New and upcoming artists have submitted artwork in the categories of painting, drawing, collages, photography, sculpture (including assemblage), installation, ceramic, fibre art and video.

Peter Reid, Chairman of the National Gallery, addresses the audience at the opening ceremony

The Aaron Matalon Award will be presented to the best entry by a single artist. The 2010 Aaron Matalon Award went to Laura Facey for her remarkable installation piece ‘Plumb Line’. This is the most pivotal event for the National Gallery; which does have an active exhibition program. Exhibitions staged earlier in 2012 included retrospectives of Jamaica’s most prestigious artists, such as the eminent Professor the Hon. Barrington Watson, OJ. Other projects include thematic exhibitions, touring exhibitions and the Annual Visual Arts Competition, which is held in conjunction with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission. Home Sweet Jamaica encourages you to make every effort to visit the National Gallery of Jamaica if you are in Kingston. Don’t miss your chance at an eyeful of visual talent and culture unsurpassed anywhere in the Caribbean.

Art enthusiasts view one of Marlon James' entries, 'Vogue'

National Gallery of Jamaica 12 Ocean Boulevard, Kingston Mall, Jamaica WI Blog: nationalgalleryofjamaica.wordpress.com The 2012 National Biennial opened Sunday, December 9, 2012 and will run until March 2013. A part of the remarkable entry by Jasmine Thomas-Girvan, "Dreaming Backwards"

For more information: Author: Nancy Burke, Artist inansi@cwjamaica.com Photos: Matthew Henry Artist and photographer, Matthew Henry, stands in front of his piece, 'Hijab' Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

On A Mission For centuries man has traveled east in search of spiritual enlightenment and healing. In lieu of the orient this summer, I decided to take my journey of discovery to Jamaica's eastern parishes of St. Thomas and Portland. The mission, my spirit said, should you choose to accept it, is to locate, swim, dive, soak up, and drink as many clean sources of water I could find. Water in many eastern philosophies is the element that represents emotions. It is considered healing for many physical maladies brought on by emotional imbalances and if Western psychology is to be believed, that's pretty much all disease. It just so happens that Jamaica, our land of wood and water, has an abundance of mineral springs, waterfalls, rivers and beaches, many steeped in folklore and modern accounts of healing episodes. The mission now had a name and a mandate: Journey to the East: The Water edition. 22

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My traveling partner Raha and I packed up the van with the barest essentials that included but was not limited to several pairs of bathing suits, river shoes, camping gear and chocolate (you know, just in case of an emergency). We journeyed to Bath Fountain, St. Thomasâ€™ healing springs. The locals call it a massage, but I call it a complete surrender and release. Hot stones heated by the natural sulphur water are placed on specific points on the body along with steaming hot and cold towels to facilitate a deeply cleansing detoxification. Ten minutes into it, you realize that you either learn to "trust the process" or turn tail and run. Mi nah lie, there were a few tense moments that subsided with the perfectly timed cold shower sprinkler drizzled all over my body. This is definitely not for the faint of heart. Heat, a little pressure, so naturally

beautiful you want to stay forever. Bath Fountain has a small hotel with Roman bath tubs and jacuzzis in the basement of the hotel that pipes hot and cold sulphur waters directly from the springs. Our ritual was to soak for 20 minutes at midnight. HEAVEN...

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I tend to shy away from famous tourist attractions given my personal opinions on overcommercializing nature, but the pictures of Reach Falls have always fascinated me: a whole heap a water tumbling over a big piece a rock. Now everything you've ever heard about the majesty of Portland is embodied in this remarkable piece of Jamaica; cascading falls of the most beautiful blues and greens appeal to every sense organ you possess. The higher you climb, you become aware of the landscape changing and feel yourself adapt to the change if you wish to continue your discovery. Some sections required a swim or a crawl into the "heart shaped pool" or a mindful walk along the river’s edge, a lot like life I thought. MAGIC... Riddle me dis, riddle me dat: Deep lush green had a surprise visit from vibrant sea blue. Salty and warm mixed with fresh and cool. I'm not a river, I'm not the sea, but where the two meet, there you shall find me. Next stop: The Blue lagoon. While completely immersed I experienced the lagoon as a physical manifestation of the beauty of the dance of opposites found constantly in nature. DIVINE... Onward to Boston Bay in search of lodging for the next few nights. We heard about rustic huts by Boston Bay’s coastline. We had to explore! I initially felt this was a detour from the water theme, only to discover that the type of water healing here is that the views are extremely easy on the eyes. "Good morning miss, Can I come and rake your bathroom?” That’s right! Where else is this question appropriate? That was the very friendly chamber maid at Great Huts, Portland coming in to tidy the sand floor bathroom of the romantic SeaGrape hut. Africa comes alive on Jamaica's eastern coastline. Yes, you “heard” me. Palatial African-styled rooms and truly rustic huts make up this enchanted part of Jamaica. Upon entering Boston Bay, you make your way past the famous jerk center down an obscure road...dead end or is it? Upon entering the doorway, it's like stepping into a whole new realm.... Dr. Paul Rhodes, founder and owner of Great Huts, has combined elements of his Jewish background and love of African culture beautifully, creating an organic Eco friendly vacation option right there at the tip of Portland. While our friends stayed in the Seagrape Hut, we felt like royalty in the majestic African Sunrise; a three floor hut where you get to access each level by step ladder. The top floor houses the bedroom that opens to a panoramic view of the sea and the most breathtaking sunrise imaginable.

Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

It's not that the weather in Portland is schizophrenic; it just has a lot to express. A sudden thunderstorm in the middle of the afternoon gives no hint of the vibrant sunshine just before or the warm gentle breezes after. Whether you're a cliff jumper, amateur surfer or professional sunbather, Great Huts beautiful cliff-lined beach has got your ticket. As Great Hutsâ€™ manager, Juliet proudly states that, â€œthe fusion of the African and Jewish culture combines beautifully here." Future guests will have the opportunity to experience even more of this fusion during the Christmas holidays. The activities will be a celebration of Jamaican, African and Jewish tradition all at no extra charge for guests with general bookings. Great Huts prides itself on being a clean green resort that seeks to sustain life and uses locally produced food. Oh, by the way, one of the best things about this place is that all the staff are like family. PHENOMENAL... I'm a MoBay girl myself who takes pride in recognizing a nice beach. I was not prepared however for the seemingly endless treasures along the bays of the Portland coastline. Mostly free of cost and free of pollution, these saltwater paradises became the last leg of the journey before heading home. This journey was hot on the heels of Jamaica's Olympic success in London, so I was already big-headed with civic pride, but after this water discovery, you couldn't find a hat to fit me. I concluded my Journey to Jamaica-East with a healthy resolve to continue to work to protect the naturally beautiful healing environment this island offers! So, did my trip to the east provide spiritual illumination? Whether floating at Winnifred beach or making water wheels in the Blue Lagoon, I felt my spirit soar and was certainly lighter for it, so, in a word, Yes! Mission accomplished. For more information: Author: Cassanie McKenzie cassanisun@yahoo.com Phone: (876) 463-5469 Photos: Cassanie McKenzie

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A Higher Wind In Jamaica 24 October, 2012 Poet: Nancy Burke

Sitting here in the dark without phone, TV, radio or internet service, only a tired little candle and a kerosene lamp remind me that this is real life, no Reality-Show-Life, it is very very still outside, no street lights, no cars, no crickets, just the gentle hum of gennys all over Jack's Hillnot here though, by choice, safe but surreal…suddenly, the damp night air is disturbed by a windy growl from the south – a gusty song from "de gyal" Sandy…"Mi still a-come ova Kingston town--yu feel me? feel de pain, man!!"…and the rain begins again…..softly… steadily. Its never over til its over. "G'way 'urry-come-up Bad-Mind Sandy! Gwaan!" Go Sandy go. Away. Sista "Hurricome" Sandy paid us a quick visit this afternoon. Staying only 4 hours, she disembowelled the old Bombay mango tree – decimated the Flame of Forest – ripped off all the massive leaves from the right side of the statuesque Cuban Palm, shredded the old knotty pines, knocked down & out the Breadfruit trees and countless Breadfruits and bowed my towering hibiscus bush…but we are intact and so are all the nameless shrubs with their upright red blooms or floppy pink petals – like nothing happened, relaxing in the aftermath of an intense afternoon fling. The big bamboo hedges had the best "lyme", waving around – flexing in time, demonstrating their indestructibility, everything was dancing on the wild side, but some will take months to recover, others never will …and this was only our yard – (Celeb Category 1 Hurricane Sandy: Caribbean death toll: 65 USA: 110)

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A new home for the Richards family

Food For The Poor: BuildingVillagс Thirty years ago, Food For The Poor was a feeding program in Jamaica. Ferdinand (Ferdy) Mahfood and his wife Patti would travel throughout the Caribbean working to bring relief to victims of poverty, disease, and natural disasters. With their core beliefs firmly planted in their Catholic faith, they embarked on an ecumenical journey that would become an essential resource for the impoverished throughout the Caribbean and Latin America; clergy and congregations of diverse Christian faiths working together to achieve common goals. Today, Food For The Poor serves seventeen (17) countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America and is the largest international relief and development organization in the United States, according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy. While, Forbes magazine’s 2011 survey of the 200 largest U.S. charities, rates them as the fifthlargest recipient of private support. Food For The Poor’s The old Richards’ family home charitable commitment ratio of 97% with a fundraising efficiency of 98% made it possible for organizations like the Better Business Bureau and Ministry Watch to award high ratings. We may opt to consider the approximate $9 billion in aid that Food For The Poor has provided since its inception, or the 77,417 housing units built for the destitute. 26

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In the year 2011 alone, Food For The Poor constructed 6,294 housing units for families in need of adequate shelter. While there are numerous ways to evaluate the organization’s accomplishments, when asked individually what drives them, the response that seems to resonate throughout the Food For The Poor corridors is that they act on “faith.” It is clear that faith is an integral part of Food For The Poor’s corporate culture; while Ron Burgess in Food For The Poor’s Office in Jamaica quoted Matthew 25:40, “Whatsoever you do to the least of my people, that you do unto me,” Susan James at their corporate location, selected a quote from Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence rely not; In all your ways be mindful of Him, and He will make straight your paths.” Susan is the Project Manager for Jamaica and Guyana. She works within her assigned communities to identify, assess, and coordinate relief efforts to the poorest among us. Born in Mandeville, in the Parish of Manchester, Jamaica, and armed with a degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida, Susan treks to remote locations just to view a proposed site for a village. Their journey through Guyana took them across a large land mass and over a bridge, where they continued driving for about Susan James, Project Manager Food For The Poor an hour before taking a 45-minute boat ride on the Essequibo River; Jamaica and Guyana again on land, they traveled for about an hour of rough roads to meet another boat which would take them to the Pomeroon River, then down a manmade canal. Regardless of her destination, Susan is inevitably inspired by people she is there to meet, "I cannot tell you the number of times I have met grandmothers taking care of grandchildren with no food in the cupboards assuring me with unwavering certainty that God will provide; they strengthen my spirituality.” Whenever possible, the charitable organization tries to build a village. Remote areas are often where the Food For The Poor Team encounters people with the most basic needs; shelter, food, clean water, health services, and education. The impoverished are often identified through church groups and community leaders. The charity works with partner organizations to determine needs and to assist with distribution. Sometimes all that people need is someone who steps up to be their voice. Food For The Poor will send someone out, often Susan, to make an assessment. There are often many challenges to overcome. After all, to build a village, you must first have land or at the very minimum, the rights to use the land for their intended purpose. Typically, the poorest among us, do not have this first requirement. Nevertheless, the team works diligently to overcome each obstacle, create a plan, find funding, move the plan into action, and of course…daily prayer. It is how the New Haven Village in Siriki, Guyana, came into existence; the village includes 70 homes and a school. An Amerindian Family home built by Food For The Poor

In Susan’s words, “Many times the families we visit who live in the worst conditions are the ones who have no way of owning land. This is why if we can build a village, it's such a relief to us because we can incorporate that family into the village.” Building a village enables a community. It minimizes the construction costs of shared essential services such as water, sewage, and electricity. Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

It is Food For The Poor’s goal to enable self-sufficiency. When we, The THREAD Foundation, first approached them for assistance, we were a newly formed charity with basic needs. Building villages in Caribbean AND Latin America communities? They were obviously well out of our league. We were referred to them through our partnership with the Catholic Church but, to be perfectly honest, our expectation of receiving assistance, were, well…non-existent. But, we took a leap of faith and approached them anyway. It is THREAD’s plan to rebuild a small community centre and football (soccer) A village field. As such, we needed to begin fundraising events, hosting competitive matches, and all with very minimal financial support; the task seemed astronomical. We explained our goals within the community to have a place for the children within our surrounding neighborhoods to meet and host sport activities along with educational after school programs, and provide a safe haven for children to play. To ensure continuity, we recognize the importance of self-reliance in the long term. We were unsure of what, if any, assistance would be available to us through Food For The Poor’s programs and we anticipated that our needs would be comparatively too trivial to meet their requirements. Although to date, I have never met Susan James in person. We became fast friends through a series of telephone conversations as she assessed our needs and the feasibility of their participation. Within a month, we had chairs, tables, and tents required to begin hosting our community events. On our part, we have loaned these items to other charitable organizations with similar goals to share the wealth that we received from Food For The Poor. For non-charity events, their generosity enables us to charge a nominal fee for our equipment in order to help fund our efforts to improve living conditions within our community. I mention this to emphasize the importance of what Food For The Poor does big and small, not just to build villages, but also to improve them. It is equally important to stress how much each of us can make a difference in our respective communities by working together, in faith. Graciously, Susan responded to our gratitude, “Our accomplishments are attributed the work of the entire team. In both Guyana and Jamaica, we have incredible, dedicated individuals that help us to identify and implement the projects. I can do NOTHING without their help. And of course, it is with the support of Robin Mahfood, President and CEO of Food For The Poor, that gives us the resources and direction to be able to help entities such as yours.” Continued on next page 28

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Robin Mahfood, President/CEO of Food For The Poor

Robin Mahfood’s response was simply, “God is good.” As President/CEO of Food For The Poor, Inc., a title he’s held for more than a decade, Robin Mahfood is no stranger when it comes to the inner workings of a business. He grew up in Jamaica and is often referred to as a spiritual businessman with a true heart for the poor. Under his leadership, Robin and his team piloted the non-profit organization into the largest international charity within the United States. On their website, the vision statement Home interior reads: “Food For The Poor is God's instrument to help the materially poor and to renew the poor in spirit. Our ministry is a reflection of our Lord's unconditional love; a love that surrenders all, that inspires trust and faith, and that embraces all people, regardless of race, status or creed. It is also shaped by our belief that Christ is alive and can be served directly by serving those in greatest need (Matthew 25:40). For guidance and to maintain the purity of our mission, we stress the need for regular prayer. Through surrender, service and prayer, we seek a closer union with our Lord.” It has been our experience that this vision statement is not just true as words on a webpage, but in also daily practice. These values are reflective of most Jamaican Christian families and we encourage you to explore how we can congruently achieve a shared mission of “linking the church of the First World with the church of the Third World in a manner that helps both the materially poor and the poor in spirit.” After all, it does take a village to raise a child. Together, let us build more villages and improve upon the ones already in existence. Please visit Food For The Poor’s website for a variety of ways to improve our lives and lives within the communities we hold dear: http://www.foodforthepoor.org/.

For more information: The THREAD Foundation Author: Gina Tulloch-Adams gina@thethreadfoundation.org www.thethreadfoundation.org Phone: (876) 974-2505

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

For the Love of Chocolate...

“Anything is good if it’s made of chocolate.” – English comedienne, Jo Brand My love affair with chocolate began in my late teens while living in my original homeland of Mumbai, India. From its creamy texture to its versatility of flavors, chocolate is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. For me, it was not simply about the taste but also about the art of making 30

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superior quality chocolates. I sought every opportunity to educate myself about the history of chocolate; its healthful benefits, romantic nuances, passionate textures and its ineffable ability to soothe like a balm to the soul. Although chocolate is often perceived as a dive into decadence, there are real health advantages to eating chocolate. Mayo Clinic nutritionist, Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. explains, flavanols in cocoa beans have antioxidant effects that reduce cell damage implicated in heart disease. Flavanols, most prevalent in the dark chocolate

variety, can help lower blood pressure and improve vascular health. In March 2012, BBC News reported on a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. The study found that regular chocolate consumption was related to lower BMI . So ingredients in chocolate may indeed favour weight loss! But I never needed scientific proof to know that chocolate was good for me. Continued on next page

ingredients; from the sunny and exotic flavours of passionfruit, mango, pineapple and guava; to the sophisticated and complex notes of Blue Mountain coffee, Jamaican rum, and, believe it or not, Scotch Bonnet Pepper. Appealing to the colourful Jamaican palate, there was the zesty sorrel with ginger, Scotch Bonnet mixed with tequila and lime, and of course, the ubiquitous bun and cheese. There is so much to be said for Jamaican fruits, flavours and spices. The Mobay Chocolate Company was rapidly expanding, now also producing bon-bons, cakes, pastries, and beverages, for which the base ingredient is, naturally, chocolate.

The entrancing nature of chocolate transforms whatever it touches to something sensual and indulgent â€“ it is never just about eating. It is why I regard each hand-decorated morsel of MoBay Chocolate Company products as a powerful and artistic expression of my personal passion for chocolate. After my husband and I got married and moved to Jamaica, that irrepressible chocolate obsession began to resurface. Now the mother of two amazing young men and wife of an active Businessman, I began making chocolate at home as gifts to

our family and friends at Christmas. This delightfully delicious holiday tradition was soon extended to birthdays and anniversaries. Before long, I had requests from friends to create personalized wedding favours as tasteful expressions for their nuptials. This would eventually lead to my experimenting with a variety of new and uniquely Jamaican flavours. Soon, a great deal of my time was spent in indulging my love for chocolate. Each year I made the trip to India and for the love of chocolate would explore more and more of its rich history. I savoured every bit of information I could find on its origin and different preparation processes. As my knowledge of it grew, I discovered the distinction between fine and commercial chocolates. I grew convinced that I could turn this passion into a viable business. Back in Jamaica, I began experimenting with an assortment of local

With the celebration of Jamaicaâ€™s 50th anniversary on the way, we approached the Jamaica 50 secretariat and got onboard with the Golden Jubilee Village celebrations at Independence Park. There were new chocolate flavours for Jamaica 50 as well, including, coconut rum, Jamaican curry and jerk. Emblazoned with the colourful Jamaica 50

Hummingbird logo, the cultural chocolate creations were included in the official selection by the Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Jamaica 50 committee and presented as gifts from the Prime Minister to visiting guests and dignitaries. The overwhelming response during the anniversary celebrations has lead to hopes of establishing a retail boutique in Kingston. That will call for new flavours. Perhaps sweet-sop…guinep…Red Stripe? Whatever the decision, the future is sweet. Without limitations, I am committed to creating fresh and authentic handmade artisan chocolates. From the unprocessed block of cocoa, through the melting, cooling, flavouring, and molding, I personalize the training process to ensure no shortcuts are taken and that no preservatives are used in our products. Just real, sweet, perfect, chocolate. Whether you are interested in the health benefits or just love the sweet treat, simply visit us, for the love of chocolate. At MoBay Chocolate Company, we have diverse selections to suit your distinguished taste buds. It isn’t just our fabulous assortment of ingredients and flavours that makes them so delicious, but also the joy of creating confections that reflect the culture and spirit of our colourful Jamaican home.

For more information: MoBay Chocolate Company Author: Mahek Chatani Phone: (876) 633-2462 Photographer: Alan Smith Signature Weddings Mahek is the mother of two wonderful boys; Aman, age14 and Karan, age 11. She is married to Anil Chatani for 15 years and Jamaica has been her family’s primary home since 1997.

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

At Mobay Chocolate Company, we have diverse selections to suit your distinguished taste buds.

(L-R): Warren Weir, Usain Bolt, and Yohan ‘The Beast’ Blake

o doubt this year has been one for the books. The co-incidence of Jamaica's 50th anniversary and the staging of the auspicious Games of the XXX Olympiad made for an eventful summer, to say the least. 2012 was indeed the year of the Jamaican.

Of course, every person has his or her own story of where he or she was when Shelly-Ann ‘The Pocket Rocket’ Fraser-Pryce shot across the finish line at the Women’s 100m final or when Usain Bolt delivered just as he Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

promised; putting the naysayers to shame, and reminding us all who the fastest man on earth is. For student and independent filmmaker, Basil Jones Jr., 2012 took him to the London Games as a production assistant with International Media Content (IMC), the owners of Sports Max TV. I sat down with him recently, to talk about his own Olympics experience, his views on storytelling and brand Jamaica.

He also remembers the Men’s 200m final which saw the crowning of the Jamaican sprinting triumvirate of Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake and Warren Weir. “For that race I was at the park, the Olympic park that has all the venues...it has a big screen TV. My responsibility was to film the reactions of the crowd during that race. That was a big crowd...we’re talking about an international crowd, from all over the globe”.

Talking with Basil, it’s fairly obvious he had a good time in “The thing I realised while there was that everybody was London. It’s the Olympics after all. For the duration of the cheering for their respective teams and Jamaica...that was games, he had the task of capturing footage to be a good feeling, to have people on your side...to be a small distributed throughout the Caribbean. country but to have an international support system.” For those of us who couldn’t be there, Basil and his team members were © 2012 The Gleaner Co. Ltd. our eyes and ears at the Olympic park. From badminton, to equestrian and judo, he filmed events and interviews with participating athletes and their coaches. “Whether it was match footage, interviews or features we did for Sports Max, I would contribute to the editing...then be responsible for sending that footage to the Caribbean”. Staying on top of all these events was no mean feat. Late nights and early mornings were the order of the day, he explained. “We had to catch a 7:30am bus every morning, no matter what time we got in, 12, 1, 2. 12am was the regular thing, 10pm was (L-R): Sherone Simpson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Veronica Campbell-Brown, and Kerron Stewart a blessing! It generally felt like one long day rather than separate days.” Most of his time was spent between the park and the Watching the crowds’ reactions through his camera lens, International Broadcast Centre, designated for the media. Basil began to consider the wider implications of what he “The IBC was fun – 3 floors of international media. was experiencing, “it made me feel like we’re all in this We had a small studio/control room and office combo together...everybody’s proud of us and wants to cheer us compared to the bigger networks, but we were effective.” on...it’s really good, like having international friends.” Small and effective is something we Caribbean islanders can identify with; knowing as we do the truth in the saying Blinking back my impulse to roll my eyes at his burst of ‘wi likkle, but wi tallawah’. optimism, I realize that he is right. When it comes to an historical event like the Olympics, we have a chance, as When I asked Basil about his most memorable nations, to suspend our political, ideological and religious experience, understandably, he had trouble selecting just differences, albeit momentarily, and literally play games one. “I went to see the flag raising ceremony for the Men’s with each other. This is true even for us as a Caribbean 100m. I actually was at the race and I saw the Jamaican region. Basil tells me his team was a truly Caribbean flag raised and I sang along ...that would be my most entity, including journalists and professionals from various memorable moment…I used to say, the way they play the islands. Of course there is a bias towards our homeland, anthem so many times, I should print [the words to] the but as a region, we rejoice with our neighbours in their Continued on next page anthem and just distribute it.” 34

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Basil Jones Jr., Student and Independent Filmmaker

victories. Basil continued, "That's one thing I loved about the Olympics – Caribbean nationals were stepping up. To see Bahamian nationals win, to see Trinidad get a medal...it was togetherness...The Caribbean strength is just something really phenomenal...we’re all one region – one strong region.” Basil and I began to talk about the state of our region and the question of where Jamaica goes next as a country. The stellar performance of our athletes has afforded the country access to a world stage; the onus is now on us to act upon that momentum. Basil lamented the fact that many of our athletes don’t make it to the Olympics due to of lack of funds. “It’s a shame that we have so many sports practising in Jamaica but we don’t enter that many sports in the Olympics... participation helps a lot...it encourages more sponsorship, development of the particular sport...we are strong in sports so we need to do more with our strengths. If you have weakness, you have weaknesses, but we need to work on those strengths and push those strengths...I want to see more of us (out there).” All set to graduate from the University of the West Indies, Mona in November of next year, with a degree in Media and Communication and Electronics, Basil has his own plans for promoting brand Jamaica and sharing our stories with the world. “I born here yuh know, and I grow here, it makes sense I develop here... I don’t bash people for leaving the country anymore but what I do hope for is that more and more people will just come to the realization that [we can] build Jamaica...I believe it can get better... it can be great...it’s just about the work you want to put into it.”

Before heading to London, Basil had just wrapped up work on the 19th season of America’s Next Top Model which featured Jamaica as the international destination. Countless other international groups have featured the island in their media productions. I asked him how he as a storyteller felt about foreign filmmakers capitalizing on our Jamaican culture. His response was impassioned, “if they don’t do it we won’t do it either... if we want to tell a story get up and tell it but don’t stop someone else from telling it – tell a better one, the real one...We can’t stop people from telling our stories; [we need to] get up and tell the story.” Basil's belief in his country's potential is clear. For him, the Olympic experience was one of reaffirmation – of where he belongs, and where his allegiances lie. Let us not allow that surge of patriotism, that Olympic fever tends to breed, to fade. Across the world, let us as a people prove that London 2012 was just a taste of a new generation of Jamaican game-changers. Check out Basil’s short film Surface Love and others on YouTube or at bazzleamusement.com.

For more information: Home Sweet Jamaica Magazine Author: Abigail Henry abigail@sunfloral.com Phone: (876) 849 1366

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Homegrown Success I fondly remember going to Lennox in Portland during summer vacations to my grandparents’ home where they operated a banana, coconut and chicken farm. I didn’t realize it then, but Agriculture would be my destiny because as they say ‘it was in the blood’. My father’s family had been in agriculture for as far back as anyone could recall. My greatgrandfather, Wilmot “Worky” Sharp, was a mechanical engineer on a sugar estate back in the 1800s and most, if not all, of his descendants practiced agriculture in some form. My father, Lawrence Sharp, studied agricultural economics at the Jamaica School of Agriculture at Hope Gardens and then got his final degree at McDonald College in Montreal. From there he went on to develop the largest ornamental nursery in the Caribbean in Yallahs, St. Thomas. It was here that my formal journey into agriculture started. After attending Munro College and Wolmers Boys School, I went to the United States to further my education. I graduated from Valdosta State University in 1989 with a degree in Botany, and returned to Jamaica to join the family business. It was however during my university days that “my teeth would be cut” and the real education would begin. On an infamous day in September 1988, Hurricane Gilbert swept through the island wreaking havoc on the eastern end of the island. During its run, it annihilated my family’s ornamental farm and completely flattened every greenhouse in its wake of complete destruction. To compound matters, our family home was severely damaged and our coffee farm in Newcastle flattened. I was in Jamaica at the time and, having seen the wrath of this most devastating Hurricane, I decided to delay my education in order to stay and assist with the rebuilding process. It was, and still remains, the most impactful period of my life; one which took almost a decade from which to rebound. It was however also the period that built within me a stronger focus, determination and resolve. And as the Jamaican proverb goes “What don’t kill you, make you stronger”. I worked at the Nursery in St. Thomas for seven years where my knowledge of agronomy was honed and my managerial skills developed. I was however forced to close 36

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Jason Sharp

down the operation in 1997 because the Government would not sell us the land or extend the lease on which we had been mostly successful for twenty five years. Operation Pride, a Government Housing Program, had identified the land as ideal for development and our pleas went unanswered. It did not seem to matter that at the time we were the largest employer of labor in the Parish and a primary exporter earning much needed foreign exchange. This compounded with financial difficulties experienced from the rebuilding and extremely competitive forces in Central America. With a lease about to expire and no word from the Government, I locked the gate, bitter, frustrated and disillusioned. I have never been back. It is important to note that Operation Pride was later found fraught with corruption and the level of development that was slated for the land in question was never fulfilled. Things would however change for the better when I went to work at Premier Coffee Trading Company (PCTC) in 1999 as the General Manager. I soon became ‘bitten by the coffee bug’, and for the next four years, my love for the coffee business would grow. By this time, my older brother, Richard, who had been growing Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee on our family farm in Newcastle, Clifton Mount Coffee Estate, was expanding Continued on next page

the business and had started to look at avenues to improve his return on a box of cherry coffee. We both had a passion for coffee and our complementary skills and experience, his production skills and my knowledge of processing and exporting, would make us a formidable force. A new partnership was formed.

The fourth initiative was the development of a wet mill (pulpery) at Clifton Mount Coffee Estate. This wet mill allowed the company to pulp all of its cherry coffee at one location – controlling an important first step in coffee processing, ensuring cost efficiency and overall quality control.

In October 2003 I joined Richard as a partner in Coffee Traders Ltd. (CTL). Our start was a very humble one with a newly-inspired spirit, energy and vision. We felt extremely confident in the future of this business. Initially we exported exclusively green (raw) beans to Japan and in later years expanded aggressively into Europe and the USA. Today we export to countries all over the world and our Clydesdale and Clifton Mount Brands are staples in high end retail stores, micro roasters and specialty coffee shops worldwide.

The last major development was a partnership in a new coffee finishing processing works (facility), B.M. Coffee Processors Ltd. which today is the most efficient coffee factory, processing the largest volume of Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee on the island, and arguably the finest green coffee in the world.

2005 would prove to be a very important year in the development of our company. Firstly, we introduced a payment method to coffee farmers, which until today has not been replicated by any other coffee company in Jamaica. This method allowed farmers to receive full payment for their coffee 24 hours after delivery. Traditionally farmers would have to wait up to one year to receive full payment leaving them cash-poor and frustrated. This made CTL the preferred company by coffee farmers and our volumes increased significantly, allowing our customers a greater level of confidence in our ability to supply. Secondly, we started roasting and packaging coffee for the local market. Although the market was already mature, we went in and focused on quality, service and innovation. Today, CTL is the island’s largest roaster, supplying the largest share of the local market. Thirdly, in June of that year, we opened our first coffee shop, Café Blue, in Irish Town, St. Andrew. Café Blue is today the largest coffee shop chain in Jamaica with five stores island-wide and plans for continued expansion both in Jamaica, the Caribbean and eventually into the developed markets. Café Blue was a dream to carry the seed to the cup, allowing Jamaicans the opportunity to experience the highest quality Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee first hand and to elevate the local coffee culture so that we could become not just primary producers and exporters but also consumers. After winning several Observer Food Awards and numerous other accolades, we are confident that this revolution has started to have an impact on the local landscape.

Since then the company has grown from strength to strength with new initiatives and developments. This has included major farm expansions within the company, leasing or purchasing four new properties, as well as a significant expansion of our roasting facilities with new developments on board for a further expansion in 2013. Clifton Mount Coffee Estate also received the international certification, Rainforest Alliance, which singles out and recognizes this farm for its social and environmental impact, on not just the farm, but the wider community. Today, CTL is firmly rooted as a market leader in the Jamaican Coffee Industry. We have always recognized the need to be a profitable entity and certainly are always focused on ensuring that we meet our targets. However, it has always been our drive to obtain the Perfect Cup and to improve product quality every step of the way. With the expansion of our company over time, including the launch of Café Blue Retail, we are extremely proud of the fact that we now currently employ close to 1,000 people throughout all our operations, and support over 3,000 small coffee farmers throughout the island. We are earning much needed foreign exchange, growing a great Jamaican brand worldwide, are grounded in the roots of our family heritage and traditions, and with the desire of continued growth, winning over new coffee lovers, one cup at time! To learn more and for up-to-date happenings about Coffee Traders and Cafe Blue, please 'like' our page on facebook at www.facebook.com/cafeblueja and follow us on twitter: @cafeblueja or visit our website, www.jamaicacafeblue.com. For more information: Coffee Traders Limited Author: Jason Sharp farms@cwjamaica.com Phone: (876) 901-3477 Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Jamaican Drivers Jamaican drivers have developed a poor reputation as they navigate at top speed through the narrow, winding roads that span the island, dashing in and out of traffic. We have all had at least one circumstance that caused us to raise our voice, fist, and even the occasional finger to express our disdain. But, this fearlessness that seems to be a part of our inherent Jamaican DNA has a thrilling alternative for responsible drivers; Jamaican Motorsports! I started racing competitively in 1995 at the age of 16. I remember how excited I was to be behind the wheel of my 1986 Toyota Starlet. Although I now drive a 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 10, it is still an awesome feeling; an adrenaline rush tempered with a bit of nervousness. Learning how to control the car’s movement, whether it is sliding or driving ‘flat out’ at speeds topping 135MPH, still brings a unique sense of joy. 38

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In Jamaica, there are currently 110 registered professional drivers across the various disciplines. As professional drivers in Jamaica, we must first achieve a Federation Internationale de L’Automobile (FIA) Competition License; the sole international body governing automobile sport. The National Sporting Authority for Jamaican motorsports is the Jamaica Millennium Motoring Club (JMMC) . There are affiliate clubs that oversee the various disciplines such as Karting and Circuit racing, as well as Rallysports that are administered by local promoters and organizers. Karting is considered the entry level for organized racing; this adventure may begin from the age of five. The Jamaica Karting Association organizes racing events for drivers as young as eight years old where their classes are separated by age and weight of the vehicle . While the Jamaica Race Drivers Club (JRDC) oversees all track racing such as the

Dover Raceway in Liberty Gardens, Saint Ann and the Jamwest Speedway in Old Hope, Westmoreland. Rallies, Sprints, Dexterities, and Drag Racing disciplines are administered through promoters or organizers moving away from being directly administered by JMMC, these events are sub-contracted to private organizers. Dexterity courses test the skill of the driver and are usually where a driver begins achieving the experience required for the more complex competitions. As the introductory to rally sports, drivers are required to navigate cones in an obstacle course designed to hone their skills. Sprint races are timed trials at one venue. These are typically temporarily closed courses of any surface and we modify our vehicle suspensions, tires, etc. to best suit the requirements of the course. Continued on next page

Rallies are timed competitions that may be held on a variety of courses; tarmac as well as unpaved terrains. A Navigator accompanies the driver in advance of the race to create pace notes that will ensure the most efficient traverse of the course during the competition. The lowest accumulated times over a 1-3 day period for each specified class, as well as the lowest overall time are considered the winners of the event. My personal preference is to drive on unpaved terrains. I like being in the mountainous areas of Jamaica driving on natural surfaces. It presents a different set of risks but it is also where my skills get tested the most. In these situations, a navigator is essential to our success; we communicate through headsets and are provided with important information regarding the nuances of the course during the race.

Matthew “Magnet” Gore

Drag racing is a quarter mile or 120 feet course competition between two vehicles using a system of lights connected to the start. Speeds of 169 MPH have been recorded on drag courses in Jamaica. These races are typically categorized by time bracket or mechanical classification. Professional drivers in the Caribbean compete in the Seaboard Marine Caribbean Motor Racing Championship for circuit. This year, events will be held on courses located in Barbados, Jamaica, and Guyana. The Cayman Islands Team will also participate in the races. Current top speed for the events in Jamaica range around 139MPH for circuit racing, but this may increase with the introduction of Jamwest’s course which has a longer front-straight. Sponsors play a significant role in Motorsports, especially here in Jamaica. The cost involved with just installing safety features like a roll cage, race seats, and harnesses along with having the proper engine, tires, and suspension can prove prohibitive to many wanting to become involved with the sport. To become a top driver you have to have a competitive spirit and a car suitable to the discipline and class of your choice. Then, one must drive fearlessly to achieve positive results that will show potential sponsors what you are capable of and how you will in-turn, increase your sponsor’s visibility. Annual funding is difficult to achieve at first, but there is often in excess of eight thousand spectators in the stands at Dover Raceway at racing events held during every public holiday; Easter, Labour Day, Independence Day, Heroes Day…and as the popularity of Jamaican Motorsports grows, so does corporate interest, opportunities, and participation. There is no doubt that Jamaican drivers have the potential to compete internationally in some of the big-name competitions in the US, UK, and Europe. Driving fearlessly seems to come naturally to a lot of us. Motorsports is another potential area with a myriad of opportunities to further brand Jamaica. Imagine Jamaicans dominating on another type of track…Nascar, Le mans, Indy 500, Daytona 500…!!! With corporate sponsorship and continued spectator support, I envision that this is achievable and one day will be a reality. Until then, I encourage Jamaicans who enjoy the thrill of driving fast to do so responsibly. Instead of putting themselves and others at risk by racing on our public streets, they should consider getting involved in a more productive manner of racing by becoming a part of an organization that regulates Motorsports to actively pursue their dream. Find a mentor with experience to help you navigate the possibilities. You never know, this may lead to a sponsor who is willing to showcase your talent on the track. It is a clear, simple, and positive message that will benefit us all. For more information: Team MoBay Racing members of JMMC Author: Matthew “Magnet” Gore magnetgore31@gmail.com Special recognition and appreciation for data compilation to Dean Corrodus, the 2012 Organizer of Dexterities & Sprint races in Jamaica, President of Automotive Performance Centre, the immediate Past-Chairman of JMMC; writer; competitor; organizer; sponsor; and friend. Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Sustainable Agriculture at Potosi Farms On a regular basis, if you look for it, you’re able to find news clips about the darker side of conventional agriculture. The articles vary, but among the most common are water table contamination from agricultural chemicals, fish kills in rivers as a result of runoff from farms along its banks and dying off of inshore reefs around river mouths, warnings from the health ministry about produce being sold with dangerous levels of pesticide residue, and the feast or famine scenario local farmers endure when they practice mono-cropping. The fact is our current agricultural model, heavily dependent on imported chemical fertilizers and pesticides cannot be maintained. Jamaica is not unlike other third world nations. Low education rate, marginal skills, inadequate availability of jobs, and limited access to capital provide the ingredients for persons to turn to farming as a means to provide a subsistence living. Most farmers in Jamaica are on less than 5 acres, and their produce is usually peddled in markets across the country. By the time their produce is for sale to the public in the market, it has usually changed 40

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hands a couple times, with the farmer usually earning the lowest margin despite tremendous risk. Middlemen and retailers take the lions share of the profit, while enjoying little or no risk. The higher value tourism, restaurant, and residential customers are often out of reach for the farmers because of a host of reasons, most notably lack of transport from farm to customer, post-harvest quality control, and lack of basic education /understanding of the requirements of these markets. Despite agricultural authorities knowing the negatives of conventional farming practices, after decades of training and investment, they’re not keen to dump their agenda and start fresh with a sustainable approach. This is understandable in Jamaica, since environmental responsibility hasn’t really been a point the population has pressured political representatives to act upon. It’s always been a small few fighting for the preservation of Jamaica’s natural environment, often to the point of being outcast from certain circles and earning them the labels of Continued on next page

radicals, extremists, or if they’re lucky, environmentalists. While the practice of sustainable agriculture continues to grow rapidly worldwide, in Jamaica it’s just beginning to sprout. The only legitimate authoritative body locally, The Jamaica Organic Agriculture Movement (JOAM), does a tremendous job, voluntarily, of providing continuous training workshops, guidance, sharing of resources, and legitimate organic certification by internationally accredited officers. This doesn’t yet mean the landscape is dotted with sustainable farms, but it does mean that locals who have the will to move away from conventional agriculture and into sustainable practices, have the necessary resource to turn to for the guidance and support they need. In April of 2012, alongside my wife Marika, we made the leap into sustainability and started Potosi Farms on 83 Adam Miller acres of land in rural Trelawny, bordered for a mile by the beautiful Martha Brae River. I had a couple years of small-scale organic production experience learnt mostly through trial and error, but nothing much regarding education of the complex science that drives the symbiotic relationship between plants, animals, and the environment. Without the depth of education and experience backing us, our driving force was and still is the passion to grow clean, healthy, and arguably better tasting produce, while ensuring the health of our land is continuously improved and the welfare of our team is kept as a priority. Our vision has always been to operate a sustainable farm providing high value specialty produce to the residential, foodservice, and tourism markets. This vision however has continuously changed shape, like an amoeba of sorts, to include a host of other goals. One such addition to our plans developed out of both business necessity and the desire to help our surrounding community. We don’t have the experience necessary, nor are there plentiful pickings of experienced labour available in these country parts to handle the complexities that comes with growing 30-40 varieties. Recognizing our limitations and the opportunity to improve the standard of living within our community, we’re working to engage surrounding farmers to understand, accept, and practice sustainability so they can grow certain varieties for us. Most importantly, this then includes the community farmers into the higher value chain. Naturally we’ll become the resource they turn to for guidance and crop planning, and they in turn will provide us with quality produce to add to our own farm offerings. This process is our first step to becoming a rural agricultural education center. Beyond our own fold of community farmers, we plan to eventually open ourselves up to persons from all walks of life whom are interested in learning about sustainable farming, whether to make the transition on their own farm or simply to grow healthy food for their table at home. At its core, sustainable agriculture is the practice of farming that maintains the health of the land used, respects the natural balance of biodiversity among plants and animals, provides clean healthy food for consumers, utilizes sustainable or organic feeds for livestock, considers the welfare of farm staff as a priority, supports the development of rural (and more recently urban, based on rooftop and empty lot farms in the cities) communities, and is economically viable – BIG factor here. Sustainable isn't sustainable if the farmers can't make a decent living from it. Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

The definition of sustainability can expand to include means of alternative energy generation, utilizing untreated water sources, and maintenance of traditional varieties respective to the areas in which the farm is established. Now because of the fundamentals of sustainability, one usually finds these farms are relatively small when compared to conventional farms; therefore it is traditionally the norm to find that each community may have sustainable farms that produce food for the community, rather than the conventional practice of large scale farming and wide energy consuming distribution. There is tremendous value in local production, even if not sustainable, as it maintains a food security buffer and helps keep alive varieties that are specific to these areas, not to mention maintains economic livelihood for a segment of the community population. Another shape shift to our vision has been driven by our residential customers, hoteliers, and restaurant chefs. We currently deliver weekly to families across the country, Harvest Boxes filled with a variety of fresh picked and packed produce and herbs. These customers have continuously expressed interest in visiting the farm, having the luxury of seeing first hand where, how, and by whom their food is grown. Hotels and restaurants are recognizing the value of being aligned to farms, which itself becomes a selling point for them, a trend that is enjoying worldwide popularity. This has excited us to plan a tour offering of the farm showcasing our production fields, natural landscape and rivers, and serving gourmet meals prepared with the daysâ€™ harvest. Of course our vision will not be realized overnight; however each passing week gets us a few steps closer. We have put tremendous effort in developing strong relationships with our customers, keeping them informed about the growth of the farm, as they are truly stakeholders in every sense. They too have a dream to see Jamaica transition into a more conscious, forward-thinking, sustainable country. For agriculture, the process starts one farm at a time, each becoming a model for others to emulate. In short order the positive effects will become obvious and the resulting growth will become exponential. Soil rehabilitation on agricultural lands, improvement in the quality of our rivers and costal waters, decreased reliance of foreign exchange based inputs, greater value of the food and beverage and hospitality sectors, economic development within rural communities, and improved health of our people. The positives of a sustainable approach to not just farming, but the wider national interests are endless. Commemorating our Jubilee year since independence, there could be no greater goal set for Jamaica over our next 50 years than to ensure sustainability is at the core of our decision making process. For more information: Potosi Farms Author: Adam Miller, Potosi Farms www.potosifarms.com Email: veggies@potosifarms.com 42

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MARCUS MOSIAH GARVEY A Leader of All Times When we consider the potential impact that Jamaica’s Diaspora can have on our nation, we are reminded of Marcus Mosiah Garvey’s remarkable journey to greatness. Although much of his 53 years were spent abroad, Marcus Garvey was born in St. Ann’s Bay, Jamaica on August 17, 1887. His birthplace at 32 Market Street, renamed Marcus Garvey Way in August 2009, was officially recognized by the government of Jamaica on August 17, 1987; the year of his centenary. Further, in 2003, this home was distinguished as a Jamaican National Shrine.

unfairly treated by their employers. He visited Costa Rica in 1910 and England in1911, where his interest in his original African roots was furthered. Citing the need for black people to unite in order to realise their hopes and aspirations, Garvey founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) on his return from England in 1914. By the 1902s Marcus Garvey was the leader of the largest organisation of black people in the world.

Garvey is internationally renowned as a Philosopher, a Black Nationalist, a Prophet, and an International Leader. But, he began his life in the humble home of his parents, Marcus Garvey Senior, a stone mason and his mother, Sarah Jane Richards, a domestic worker and farmer. He attended elementary school as well as the Methodist Church in St. Ann’s Bay and at age 14, he was a printer’s apprentice at the printing shop in St. Ann’s Bay owned by his Godfather, Mr. Alfred Burrowes.

In 1916 he migrated to New York where he established a chapter of the UNIA; and the organisation selected the colours "red black and green" as it's official colours. The year 1919 was a very eventful year in Garvey's life. That year, he launched his Black Star Line shipping company. That was also the year Garvey was shot and wounded during an assassination attempt on his life; and before the year-end Garvey married his first wife Amy Ashwood. That union lasted for about a year and he married his second wife, Amy Jacques, in 1922. They had two sons Marcus Jr. and Julius.

With this experience, at age 16, Garvey realised that there were far more opportunities for him in Kingston and so he departed for the capital city where shortly after he got employed as a printer with the P A Benjamin company. Even then, Garvey's thoughts and ideas were focusing well beyond the shores of Jamaica, where the ordinary black West Indian workers were being

During his stay in the United States, Garvey organised several rallies attracting large crowds of people and his messages were well received by his followers. However, Garvey was also well persecuted by the authorities in America who were strongly opposed to his movement. By 1922 they had arrested and charged him for mail fraud. The following year he was convicted of

the charge and sentenced to five years imprisonment. This sentence was appealed. And, despite this conviction, the UNIA continued to grow in membership. Garvey was taken into custody in 1925 after losing his appeal. He was released from prison in November 1927 on a presidential pardon and immediately deported to Jamaica. Back home in Jamaica, Garvey remained undaunted by his incarceration and immediately continued the struggle for the rights of his people. Garvey earned the status of international leader through his stewardship of the UNIA, which saw the organisation rising to over 800 branches in over 30 countries and by 1927 the organisation had an estimated membership of over eleven million. After travelling to England in 1928 to help establish the West African Students Union, Garvey returned to Jamaica and launched his political career. To his distinguished credit, Garvey founded Jamaica's first modern political party – the Peoples Political Party in 1929, which gave the ordinary people of the country a feeling of hope for the future. His first taste of real political success came in 1930 when he won the Allman Town division of the KSAC, but was later disqualified because he was jailed for six months on a contempt of court charge. Upon his release, Garvey contested the byelection and this time he was elected unopposed. Garvey used the opportunity to continue championing Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Less than a year later, on June 20, 1965, while visiting Jamaica, Dr. Martin Luther King and his wife Coretta Scott King, laid a wreath at the shrine of Marcus Garvey. Marcus Garvey’s birthplace In a the cause for workers rights, as well speech, King referred to Garvey as as for the unemployed and the "…the first man of colour to lead disadvantaged. Garvey even tried to and develop a mass movement. He get the British government to assist was the first man on a mass scale in the area of social transformation. and level to give millions of Negroes a sense of dignity and destiny. Garvey's oratorical skills were And make the Negro feel he was unmatched and he also had an somebody." outstanding career as a journalist. Between 1929 and 1932 he launched After his death, Jamaicans have also three other publications. He also paid tribute by honouring a major distinguished himself as a playwright highway in Kingston with his name. and a poet and established a centre In 1973, the St Ann’s Bay Secondary in Kingston – Edelweiss Park – School was renamed after Garvey and which allowed talented Jamaicans an in 1977 a life-sized statue of him was opportunity to expose their skills in erected on the grounds of Lawrence singing, dancing, poetry reading, and Park in St Ann’s Bay. Most recently, acting. August 17, 2012 was declared Marcus Garvey Day by the St Ann Garvey migrated to England in 1935 Parish Council. where he continued his noble work up to the time of his death on June Marcus Mosiah Garvey’s life is a 10, 1940. Garvey’s body was testament to our Jamaican spirit. In originally buried in the Kensal Green his own words: “So few of us can Cemetery in London. After his understand what it takes to make a exhumation, on November 15, 1964, man – the man who will never say in recognition of his distinguished die; the man who will never give up; service to Jamaica, was re-buried in the man who will never depend upon National Heroes Park and that same others to do for him what he ought to year was given Jamaica's highest do for himself; the man who will not honour; The Order of National Hero, blame God, who will not blame thereby becoming the first Jamaican Nature, who will not blame Fate for to be bestowed with that title. his condition; but the man who will 44

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go out and make conditions to suit himself.” Today, Jamaica needs more leaders like Marcus Garvey. He epitomizes our ability to thrive when presented with opportunities and his work continues to show us how to create our own. We are able to rise above our circumstances and it is our duty to help ourselves and others in our path. Jamaica has a history of giving birth to great philosophers who have left their indelible mark on the world and instil fierce pride in people and country. Garvey not only changed Jamaica’s history, but changed world history. Today, his legacy continues to instil values and the desire to motivate people through our own personal actions and civil responsibility. He taught us to have pride in our race and to unite to improve our circumstance through self-reliance. Garvey remains a constant reminder of the importance of people of colour to become organized in order to achieve our mutual goals; and encourages leadership to govern on behalf of the working classes. You too can make a difference. For more information: Author: Devon Evans DevonEvans@hotmail.com Devon Evans is a freelance writer for Irie FM Radio and the North Coast Times. He resides in St. Ann’s Bay within a mile of the birthhome of Marcus Garvey. In 2011, he ran for a seat in the Jamaican Parliament for the Marcus Garvey Peoples Political Party, with a campaign philosophy that reflects the teaching of Marcus Garvey.

Jamaica Information Service: http://www.jis.gov.jm/special_sections/m arcus_garvey/feature-5.html Retrieved on 06 October, 2012

Jamaica and Diaspora Relations

Key to Prosperity

iaspora refers to the migration or scattering of people away from their ancestral homeland. It has been sixty-four years since the first mass migration from Jamaica; the Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks in Essex carrying 493 passengers who were primarily of Jamaican origin. Their arrival date, June 22, 1948, marks a historical moment in British history as well as our own. Today, the Jamaican Diaspora population outnumbers those of us living on the island. As a resident Jamaican, and having only one of my father’s four siblings still residing in Jamaica, I recall the stories of emotional farewells at the dock as his three other siblings embarked for the USA, El Salvador, and Lebanon not knowing what lay ahead. But, they were resolved to endure punishing new land experiencing wars, kidnapping, unpleasant weather and more to start a new life from scratch in pursuit of a better life for themselves, their family, and homeland. Emigration in pursuit of greener pastures remains a goal for many Jamaicans today. It is true that wherever we have landed, people of Jamaican ancestry have contributed significantly to world politics and culture. Our native sons and daughters such as Harry Belafonte have become exemplary leaders throughout the world and we have helped shaped civilizations that reach far beyond the shores of our small island.

It is now timely for Jamaican Diaspora to become pioneers of modern day Jamaica, given their potential to contribute to Jamaica’s growth and development. To achieve this, John F. Kennedy’s famous plea “to ask not what your country can do for you, but rather what you can do for your country,” may need to be adjusted somewhat in its application to Jamaica. We should not only be asking our beloved Diaspora to ‘do for us,’ but we should also look to facilitate the processes for Jamaicans who reside abroad and want to make a much greater contribution to the country they still call home. Each year, our Jamaican brothers and sisters residing abroad send money home in support of their families. These funds play a pivotal role in Jamaica’s balance of payments accounts and foreign exchange purse. Over US$2 billion was sent in 2011, representing the highest figures in a decade and the fifth highest in Latin America and the Caribbean, despite the worldwide economic downturn. The remittances were higher than tourism expenditures, greater than revenue derived from exports, and represented 14.8% of Jamaica’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the total value of goods and services produced by Jamaica that year. In addition, the majority of Jamaicans take the opportunity to visit ‘home’ whenever they can. The nostalgia eclipses the expense as reunions and childhood memories Continued on next page Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

(L to R) Jospeh Issa, Sophia Dewar and Jeremy Millengen

re-live ‘times gone by’: ‘Maas’ Peter, the enigmatic character with a ‘cook shop’ on the square; the river where they used to bathe and play, and the scary ‘duppy’ stories at bedtime. When they depart, they carry ‘must-bring’ goodies such as bammy, ackee, fruit cake and sorrel: eagerly awaited by many but shared only with a chosen few. However, the Jamaican economy they leave behind is currently in dire straits. Despite our current celebrations around our Golden Jubilee of Independence, and recent Olympic successes, our small Island Nation continues to depend on the help it can get from Jamaican Diaspora and the international community. The needs on the island are critical. The economy continues to plunge from prolonged zero or negative growth; it is saddled with an unsustainably high level of debt; It has on oversized public sector and wage bill which, along with debt payments gobble 80 cents out of every dollar in the budget; and it is plagued by unemployment, currently at 14% and most severe among the youth and women. All this, is because the economy is not growing. Brazil is the shining example of the importance of economic growth to poverty alleviation. From 2003 to 2009, more than 22 million Brazilians emerged from poverty, and almost 13 million rose above extreme poverty. It is also true that Brazil has had much success by combining growth with poverty alleviation. Imagine the outcome if the IMF lent Jamaica the funds to build a modern efficient energy producing infrastructure to replace the existing one and it’s high cost of US$0.40 per KWH verses US$0.03 in China? 46

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Jamaica’s economic situation has given the country an unfavourable rating among the international lending agencies. Fewer investors are coming as the level of confidence in the country continues to dive. This slide must stop and urgently, and only through the credible involvement of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, to qualify, the Government must commit to implementing a set of IMF-approved measures – tax and pension reform and a reduced public sector wage bill – which will support a medium term economic programme to steer the economy towards growth. There has been much delay recently, because the measures are not easy to implement as it will mean job cuts and less spending on social programmes, which are unpopular among voters. Diaspora consistently report on feeling ostracized from involvement in issues of national importance: rising youth unemployment, inadequate health and educational facilities, and poverty. A system and structure which allow for consultation and influence on such issues, will enable meaningful involvement, including raising funds for critical social projects, such as community upliftment, unattached youth and poor relief. In a 2005 survey carried out by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on “Engaging the Diaspora as Agents for Development”, some 74 percent of the 49 respondents said they had a specific governmental structure liaising with diasporas, citing for instance Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Haiti, Côte d’Ivoire, Lithuania, Mali, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, Senegal, Tunisia and Uruguay. “This highlights the increased awareness, interest and action by governments concerning the involvement of Diasporas in development schemes…” the report said. It appears that responses from 49 very diverse governmental institutions and entities, who are largely Foreign Affairs Ministries and other entities working with their Diaspora, indicate that countries with a similar level of development share some similar concerns. For example, high-income countries are more concerned with the integration of foreign Diasporas on their territories and with policies that take into account ethnic diversity and multiculturalism, than with their own Diasporas abroad. But some, such as Australia, Belgium, Italy, and Canada are nevertheless interested in encouraging return migration of their own highly qualified professionals, or brain gain. They are also interested in promoting their own identity – political, economic and cultural – abroad through their Diasporas. Continued on next page

Middle and low-income countries, however, have a higher interest in diasporas as remittance senders and therefore, reported having a specialised governmental structure liaising with diasporas; they also encounter specific difficulties with engaging diasporas because of their reluctance to work with the home government; they encounter difficulties in identifying willing development partners and interlocutors; and they face resource limitations and truncated policies because of such obstacles as lack of institutional communication, heavy administration and insufficient services to diasporas. Encouraging and facilitating the Diaspora's return home would be an (L to R) Former Governor Mario Cuomo, efficient solution to the challenges of attracting foreign investment. Harry Belafonte, Jospeh Issa, Jamaicans already appreciate all that the island has to offer, as a great and former Mayor of New York, David Dinkins place to live, work, do business and raise a family. More efforts to promote and make it easier for them to invest at home and create jobs would be prudent, as, too often, their efforts are thwarted, leaving niche products to be produced by other countries under false Jamaican labels. Solutions can be sought, through greater knowledge-sharing, incentives, and assistance with business infrastructure, from both civic and private sectors. This will enable Jamaica to take advantage of its significant captive market, and establish the base for a vibrant export sub-sector, and the impetus for sustained investment by Jamaicans residing overseas. Unfortunately, two major obstacles stand in the way of all of these; unity and continuity. We have a history of rallying behind each other in times of adversity, but are equally quick to pull each other down in calmer times. We need to harness all the things that make us a great nation: our ingenuity, creativity, resilience, and our ‘one love’ legacy and leave politics behind as we move forward towards our shared successes. A radical shift in the relationship between Jamaicans residing at home and Jamaicans residing abroad is required to realise our combined potential. From the premise that Jamaicans residing overseas are as Jamaican as those of us living here, they ought not to be disrespected, misunderstood, discriminated upon, ridiculed, overcharged by vendors and targeted by robbers or white collar criminals. And whether they are travelling on a United States, British or Canadian passport, their length of stay on the island ought not to be subjected to restrictions. It is important that we begin to appropriately recognise that Jamaicans are Jamaican, wherever they reside; and find ways on the island to work together and ensure an enthusiastic welcome home, whatever the duration.

Joseph Issa

For more information: Cool Group of Companies Author: Joseph Issa www.coolcorp.com Phone: (876) 974-8411 Joseph J. Issa is the Founder and Chairman of the Cool Group of Companies, with head office in St. Ann. The Group, which was started 17 years ago with one petrol station, and now boasts some 80 franchise outlets and several other businesses, has created hundreds of jobs in his adopted parishes of St. Ann and St. Mary. There, his Cool Charities Foundation focuses on education, donating hundreds of computers, books, air conditioners, and other school-related supplies to educational institutions. He also founded Global Education 2000, while studying at the London School of Economics in the UK and the Holy Cross Scholarship Fund during his tenure at the prestigious Holly Cross College in the United States, where he graduated cum laude. He made history in 1988 as the first international student and Economics/Accounting major in the school’s 148-year history to be named Valedictorian. He also made history that year by becoming the youngest resident Jamaican to pass all four parts of the Certified Public Accountant examination in one sitting and was awarded the Most Outstanding Junior Student by the Massachusetts Society of CPAs Inc. Over the years, he has received several other awards and recognition, most notable the coveted Young Hotelier of the World award in 1994, and three years later, already a member of the internationally-acclaimed Young President’s Organization, he was given the keys to the city of Lauderhill, Florida by the Mayor. In the midst of his accomplishments, Joe maintained active involvement in his faith as a Eucharistic Minister for the Catholic Church, while his priority remains his family; wife Asha Rochu Manglani and their children, Alya and John.

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

Fi di pickney dem PICKNEY GAMES PUNCHINELLA Before “Idol” competitions, Jamaican children found imaginative ways to display their individual talent. The game Punchinella provides opportunities for children to positively interact with each other; building confidence in their unique abilities while participating in a group. Today, we would benefit from taking time away from our television sets and becoming more active. That includes exercising our vocal chords, because as we know: ALL Jamaicans can sing! Punchinella is best played with about 6 to10 people; enough to form a ring. The first child (or child at heart) is selected. The remaining players hold hands to make “the ring” in which the selected individual enters to perform. The ring sings for 3 choruses, “What can u do Punchinella little fella, what can you do Punchinella little dear?” Once their talent is displayed, the ring imitates the talent. Talents will range from dance moves to skipping to modeling to making silly faces...while singing the following for 3 choruses, “We can do it too Punchinella little fella, we can do it too Punchinella little dear.” Once all participants have imitated the talent, the ring sings for 3 choruses, while the player in the middle selects the next person to perform their talent. “Who is coming next Punchinella little fella, who is coming next Punchinella little dear?” This pattern continues until each child has had a turn to show their talent. DANDY SHANDY This game requires at least three people; two pitchers, facing each other, standing about 16ft-20ft apart. A third takes a position in the center between the two pitchers. The pitcher’s objective is to aim and land a soft ball on the targeted middle player in order to get them “out.” The objective for the middle participant is to avoid getting hit by the ball for as long as possible; jumping, hopping, wild spinning, and diving are essential to avoid being hit. The successful pitcher that “outs” the target, then becomes the middle, and the game continues. This game keeps all participants very active and as long as you use a soft ball, provides a healthful alternative to being a couch potato! Submitted by: Shenoda Foreman, Home Sweet Jamaica Magazine

WORD SEARCH NYAMMINGS Find the words listed below...look carefully! They can be horizontal, vertical or even on a diagonal! Junkanoo Love Manley Music Olympics River Sharp Spas Tosh 48

Kingston Mahoe Marley Nanny Reggae Sea Ska Taino

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

C U L T U R E V I R K N O O

M U S I C M L O V E J E O L

E Y E V R A G O U R U I P Y

A N S I N H O M E W N R H M

G N E T L O B E D S K I M S

G A H P U E A E S P A S Q C

E N L E R R R P K W N Q E I

R T P P A U I S I B O A G P

S D R M O T B A N T O N A M

A A O A N C M A G O G H T Y

H E T N A M A T S U B O I L

O T A L A P E A T E S L R O

R O H N E E Y T E A N I O N T O N P L K I L A E H O S

Port Royal The richest and wickedest city on earth... •

Port Royal was Jamaica’s capital harbour when it was established by the British Royal Navy in the 1600s

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The first fort to be erected in Port Royal was Fort Charles. It was built in late 1650-60 to protect the areas of Port Royal and Kingston. It was originally called Fort Cromwell but was renamed Fort Charles.

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In 1667, the fort had 36 guns and by 1765 it had 104 guns 500 soldiers.

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Fort Charles was built to resemble the shape of a ship from afar. Pirate vessels would pull up to it, planning to raid it. Only when they got close would they see that the ‘ship’ was really a fort protected by the British Royal Navy!

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Ruins of the fort still stand and can be toured Sunday – Saturday, 9:00 am to 4:45 pm.

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Port Royal was best known as the pirate capital of the world. Every scoundrel and scallywag made berth at Port Royal. Buccaneers, bootleggers and bluejackets from all over the world came to the city to spend their booty on rum and wenches.

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The beginning of the 2003 Disney movie Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl takes is set in historical Port Royal; where Will Turner (played by Orlando Bloom) worked as a blacksmith.

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Most of the city was destroyed on June 7,1692, when an earthquake struck Port Royal. A great tidal wave destroyed ships in the harbour and even swept one ship into the middle of the town. The infamous city sank into the sea.

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During the earthquake, the ground opened up in several places, swallowing up buildings and people. A man by the name of Lewis Galdy was said to have been swallowed up by the earth then spat back out into the sea. He was picked up by a passing boat and lived to tell the tale!

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The sunken city is still intact under the water. Many old weapons, pots, watches, even gold coins have been retrieved from the sea. Divers from different parts of the world still visit to look for the sunken treasure of Port Royal.

Q: What did the pirate say when his wooden leg got stuck in the freezer? A: Shiver me timbers! Q: When’s the best time for a pirate to buy a ship? A: When it’s on sail!

Arrgh! Unscramble these piratey words, me hearty! NAONCN

EERUSTAR

ACRUENBCNE

Sources: Jamaica National Heritage Trust Website www. jnht.com The Jamaica Gleaner Website Tortello, Rebecca. "1692: Earthquake of Port Royal." Pieces of the Past. The Jamaica Gleaner <http://jamaica-gleaner.com/pages/history/story001.html> Scramble Answers: parrot, cannon, treasure, buccaneer

RORPTA

Home Sweet Jamaica | December 2012

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