March 8 14, 2010

Garvey Maceo wins big at JPS Science Expo

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March 8- 14, 2010

2008 Press Assn. of Jamaica Double Awardee

• southcoastnews@yahoo.com

•A community newspaper serving the parishes of Manchester, St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland

Mayor, MP condemns water meeting

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Now were do I begin?

This young lady contemplates her next move as she balances hed colour coordinated sno cone at the RJR All-Island Invasion, held at the Manchester High School on Saturday, February 20.

n a joint statement issued on March 4, Mayor of Mandeville, Councilor Brenda Ramsay and the Member of Parliament for Central Manchester, Peter Bunting, condemned the Government's crass politicization of the severe water shortage being suffered by the citizens of Greater Mandeville and the wider Manchester.

According to Mayor Ramsay, the Minister of Water, Dr. Horace Chang, in addressing the burning issue of drought ravaged communities of Manchester for the first time publicly, did so under the auspices of the Jamaica Labour Party affiliate - G2K rather than under his portfolio in the government.

“The Government Minister has chosen this forum to address the water woes of the Parish, instead of using the conventional practices of communication through the Ministry of Water and Housing, and its agencies. This is unacceptable, as the Minister has been totally unresponsive to the many representations from the Parish Council and the Member of Parliament to ease the water situation,” said Mayor Ramsay.

“We are astonished and disappointed to learn that the Minister has chosen to use the citizens' distress at the shortage of this essential commodity for vulgar political advantage,” she added.

Neither the Mayor nor the member of Parliament participated in the forum held in Mandeville on March 4.

Community meetings on water have traditionally been sponsored by the NWC or the Ministry and has been the practice up until very recently with the last two community meetings held in the Mona and Stony Hill.

As a former Chairman of the NWC, Mr. Bunting stated that ,“The NWC has come a long way in improving its image as a professional organization, but Minister Chang is now carrying it down a slippery slope which leads ultimately to the NWC being converted to a highly politicized organization.”

Y2K hosts M’ville water forum G 2K the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) youth arm, recently hosted a public forum at the Golf View Hotel in Mandeville to address the issue of inadequate water in the town and the parish of Manchester.

Dozens of persons turned out to hear what plans the government were putting in place to address the long-standing issue of inadequate water supplies which has effectively stymied the parish's growth and development.

Minister of Water and Housing, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang was the main presenter at the meeting and he gave his commitment that the water supply for the parish capital would be improved over the next 24 months.

Dr. Chang said that the town is poised to be a significant area of service delivery in education and health, and the Government would

ensure that development and expansion of economic activity is not hampered by a lack of water.

He told the audience that water would be pumped from the planned expansion of the Pepper water scheme in the neighbouring parish of St. Elizabeth, and his ministry was also looking to areas in Porus for additional supplies, as well as utilising some of the systems used by the now-dormant alumina bauxite companies.

"We are committed though, to give you an adequate supply of water, which is available on your borders, and only need the capital for it to be in place," Dr. Chang said.

Several residents of the parish, took the opportunity to express their personal predicament caused by inadequate water supplies, including small farmers who were unable to

access irrigation water.

Dr. Chang told the residents that he would return to the parish in a few months and inform them when the project would get underway.

"It is very important that Mandeville be put in a position to access this vital commodity, and with the budget coming up, I will be in a position to make an announcement soon," he said.

Dr. Chang argued that part of what is affecting communities with less than the amount of portable water needed, is the time it takes to improve the infrastructure across the island. He is calling for more private/public sector collaboration to bolster improvement in water supplies, as is happening with housing.

Currently, a major housing development by the National Housing Trust is on hold because of inadequate water supplies being available to service these new homes.

With many mined out bauxite pits scattered across the parish, calls were made for some of these to be developed as catchment facilities, while rain harvesting is being touted as a viable option for more households to practice in a parish which records one of highest annual levels of rainfall in the country.

The water forum wasn't without controversy however. Some persons saw Y2K's hosting of the event as politicizing an issue that was of national importance.

Viable business opportunities exist for MSMEs Page 5

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS

March 8-14, 2010

Electronic filing of income tax returns now a reality

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s the Government moves to make it easier to file and pay taxes, the Tax Administration announced that effective March 8, 2010, individuals and corporations will be able to electronically file and pay their income tax.

This facility applies to final returns for 2009 as well as declarations of estimated income and tax payable for 2010, using forms IT01, IT02 and IT07 respectively, in time for the March 15 due date.

With the expansion of the Tax Administration's online service, business persons will now be able to log on to the Tax Portal at www.jamaicatax-online.gov.jm, from the convenience of their home, office or elsewhere and at any time, to file income tax returns, once they are duly registered.

This online option will allow self-employed persons and companies to save time and money by not having to visit the tax office to file their income tax returns and to make the necessary payments.

To access the electronic filing option, persons will have to first complete an Application for Electronic Filing Account Registration form, which is available on line at www.jamaicatax.gov.jm or at any Tax Office.

The completed application form must then be submitted at any tax office. However, business persons already signed up to electronically file their GCT returns and/or payroll deductions need not re-apply.

In addition to the filing of annual and estimated income tax returns, businesses will also now be able to electronically make quarterly payments for income tax. Additionally, individuals and self-employed persons will be able to file Education Tax Return (ET01) and make payments for NIS and Education Tax via the internet.

Before going live with this latest phase of its e-services, the tax authorities hosted a sensitisation session, to familiarise representatives from the business and accounting communities with the expanded e-filing/payment system.

The participants, which included Mrs. Ethlyn Norton-Coke, Chairman of the Tax Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica, were shown a demonstration of the income tax online filing and payment options.

The Tax Administration's e-service, www.jamaicatax-online.gov.jm, was launched in 2004, with the option to pay GCT/SCT, Property Tax, Traffic Fines and some trade licences and fees.

Since the passing of the Electronic Transactions Act, the "Virtual Tax Office" has expanded its service offering in phases. In November 2008 the electronic filing of GCT/SCT Returns was added. The system was further expanded in November 2009 to accommodate the paying and filing of payroll deductions, in respect of PAYE (income tax), Education Tax, NIS and HEART. With this latest phase becoming operational, the tax authorities, in partnership with FISCAL Services Ltd, will be working to expand the

income tax option even further to accommodate the uploading of financial statements and other relevant schedules.

The filing of other tax types will also be introduced in later phases.

To get additional information, persons may contact the Tax Administration Customer Care Centre at 1-888-Tax-Help (1-888-829-4357) or visit the website www.jamaicatax.gov.jm.

Energy Minister to break ground for US$49 million Wigton Wind Farm expansion project

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inister of Energy and Mining, Hon. James Robertson, will on Wednesday, March 17 break ground for the US$49 million Wigton Wind Farm expansion

Wind Farm at Wigton, Manchester

project in Manchester.

The project will include the installation of nine new wind turbines that will generate 18 megawatts of power, increasing the total amount of energy produced by Wigton to 38.7

megawatts. The power will be sold to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) for domestic use.

In addition, plant operating facilities will be improved and a resource room for educational and technical

information exchange established.

The expansion will mean approx-

imately 55 gigawatt hours of energy, enough to power about 24,000 homes. It will also result in saving of about 32,400 barrels of oil valued at US$2.3 million, and in so doing, avoid 45,954 tonnes of carbon emissions that would be generated from burning oil.

The project advances the new energy thrust by the Government and the Ministry of Energy and Mining, as stated in the National Energy Policy.

The expansion of the Wigton Wind Farm will increase Jamaica's energy output from renewable sources and help the country to meet its target of 11 per cent of energy needs from renewable sources by 2010. At present, only 5 per cent of

JRC lands to be divested

Jamaica's energy comes from renewable sources.

Wigton Wind Farm is a subsidiary of the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ), which is an agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mining.

Wigton was incorporated in 2000 to develop wind farms and similar renewable energy systems to harness energy for generation of electricity for commercial and domestic use.

Wigton has been supplying windgenerated energy to the JPS grid alongside another facility at Munro College, in St. Elizabeth for some time. The expansion will add to this effort.

The project will be built on a turnkey basis by Vestas Eolica of Spain with local input in engineering and construction.

Commissioning of the plant is scheduled for July 2010 and the project is 100 per cent financed from the PetroCaribe Development Fund.

SOUTH COAST NEWS Unit 2- 10 Ward Ave. Mandeville, Manchester Tel: 305-0435 (Claro) 381-3564 (Digicel) 531-4785 (LIME) southcoastnews@yahoo.com Former railway station in Mile Gully, Manchester

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abinet has given approval for the Ministry of Transport and Works to sell lands owned by the Jamaica Railway Corporation (JRC) which are not required for the operation of the railway. The estimated value of the lands is J$445.6M. Minister with responsibility for Information, Daryl Vaz said the provision of railway facilities and other services to West Indies Alumina Company (WINDALCO) and the bauxite sector in general, have been the key revenue earning activities of the JRC since the closure of the railway in October 1992.

He said the present crisis in the bauxite sector has crippled the ability of the JRC to operate as a self-financing entity and the Corporation has been further affected by the decision of WINDALCO to suspend its operations for 18 to 24 months with effect from March 1, last year.

Minister Vaz was speaking at the weekly Post cabinet Press Briefing on March 3. He said the Ministry of Transport and Works is empowered under the Jamaica Railway Corporation Act to dispose of the JRC's property.

Editor Clive Williams Writers Howard Hendriks Shereido Carter Photographers Clive Williams Phillip Lemonte Carl Levy Jessica Williams

Special thanks to the Jamaica Information Service

MANCHESTER & SOUTHCOAST NEWS

March 8 - 14, 2010

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Garvey Maceo wins big at JPS Science Expo

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gro-industrial products and the use of alternative energy sources dominated the recent staging of the JPS Science & Technology Expo (Central Region), which saw 20 schools participating with a total of 26 displays.

The event, which took place at the Golf View Hotel, was held in collaboration with the Scientific Research Council and the Association of Science Teachers of Jamaica, and drew the admiration of onlookers and judges alike.

Chief Judge at the expo Dr. Cliff Riley, whose substantive post is that of Facility Coordinator for Graduate Studies at the University of Technology, noted that, “Jamaica has a bright and promising future in Science and Technology. The high quality products, models and experiments presented at the 2010 Central JPS Science Expo is an indication of the talent, intelligence and problem solving approach of our young scientist".

This year Garvey Maceo Comprehensive High School made its mark, as their young scientists carted off multiple prizes for their alternative heating source for domestic water, using black sand, as well as their agro-industrial product designed to create a two-fold product of 'weedicide' and fertilizer.

For their efforts with the black sand heating innovation, the 5th form team won First place in the Grade 1011 Category, as well as Sectional Prizes for Best Illustration of Energy Use and Most Innovative Display.

Garvey Maceo's 6th form which created the weedkiller and fertilizer in one, tied with deCarteret College for first place in the Grade 12-13 category.

DeCarteret's project, entitled 'Agricultural Trash,' proposed another industrial output for the sugar industry, as the science team recommended that the residual cane trash be used as raw material for the pulp

and paper industry, rather than simply being burnt. Two paper samples were created, one with a thickness and consistency that would allow it to be used as a substitute for styrofoam. The material was microwavable, and once discarded would breakdown in 15 days, as opposed to styrofoam and similar material which would require roughly 30 years.

DeCarteret also featured prominently with their Grade 10-11 team copping the prize for Best Presenting Group, Best Female Presenter and 2nd place for overall display.

This group came up with an innovation called, 'Hydro Generator' which involved splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, and later recombining them to create energy.

According to the team it would provide a clean alternative energy source, which could provide higher levels of energy than that produced by fossil fuels.

Other prize winners at yesterday's expo included many time winner Kilsyth Primary School, which walked away with the top prize for the Grade 4-6 Category, for their use of the fruit locally known as 'stinking toe' or 'tinking toe'. The young scientists created an energy drink from the fruit which they claim has increased the energy levels of lethargic students, after two weeks of consuming the product. The little scientists also used the shell as a fuel substitute for cooking.

Brown's Town High also stamped their mark on the meeting of sharp minds, with their utilization of guinea corn, which grows wild across the island. The team created snacks namely popcorn from 2 species of guinea corn, as well as high protein animal feed, ethanol and corn oil.

For their effort they were award the top prize for the Grade 7-9 Category.

All top winners at the Central Region Expo, will go on to the National Finals to be held on April 29-30 at the National Arena.

Students of Garvey Maceo High School (from left) Bryan Morgan, Peta-Gayle Ashman, Peta-gaye Bisasor, Alithia Fenton and Antonio Burch, proudly show off their award-winning black sand water-heating project.

Brown’s Town High School took the top prize in the Grade 7-9 Category of their utilization of guinea corn.

Church Teacher’s College focussed on creating an organic pesticide fron plants like breadfruit.

A student of Christiana High School (right) explains the concept of making ice with solar power.

Students from many time winner Kilsyth Primary School, again walked away with the top prize in the Grade 4-6 Category, for their use of the fruit locally known as 'stinking toe'.

Jasset Thomas and Sangenia Pinnock of Edwin Allen High School show off their waterless CO2 fire extinguishing egg.

Asheema Walker, Liandra Ricketts and Chevaughn Channer from Manchester High with their recycling project.

Fiona Newman, Jason Roberts, Saskia Campbell and Kavell A member of the DeCarteret team accepts the prize for placing Green represented Mt. Olivet Primary. first in the Grade 12-13 category.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS

March 8 - 14, 2010

RJR Cross-Country Invasion touches down in Mandeville

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he RJR Group rolled into town on Saturday February 20, bringing a day full of fun and excitement to Mandeville. There were lots of music, games for the kids and adults and great food. Of course we had to be there to capture all the action for you our readers.

Musical evening for Manchester Club T

he Manchester Club will be presenting an evening of jazz and blues on Saturday April 10 at 7:00 pm.

The event will feature a live band, singers and recorded music and is another of the club’s efforts to generate funds to carry out much-needed repairs and maintenance.

It promises to be a fabulous evening, so all music lovers are invited. With few entertainment events of this kind in the parish, this is one not to be missed, not to mention contributing to the upkeep of the oldest golf club in the western hemesphere.

Admission is $1,500 and includes hors d’ oeuvres which will be server from 6:00 pm.

MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS

March 8 - 14, 2010

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Viable business opportunities exist for MSMEs - JBDC head

Chief Executive Officer, Jamaica Business Development Corporation, Ms. Valerie Veira

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here are viable business opportunities to be derived by local micro, small and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) stakeholders, from the prevailing global economic recession.

This has been emphasised by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Ms. Valerie Veira.

"We (the JBDC) recognise that there will be many gaps within local markets to fill, because things won't be imported in quantities, as was the case previously.

Hence, we must see where these gaps are and how our small producers can fill those, and maximise on them," the CEO said in an interview with JIS News.

To this end, she explained that the JDBC, the agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, responsible for guiding MSME sector development, will be seeking to tailor and position its activities and programmes accordingly, for the 2010/11 administrative year. She cited the Ministries of Agriculture and Fisheries, and Tourism, as two of those whose activities the JBDC's work programme will primarily seek to mirror, during the year.

"We can look and see where we can extract opportunities for our SME sector groups and work with it. So that, if the Ministry of Agriculture, for example, say that they are looking at mangoes, then we can say, 'what products can our small producers extract?' You can have canned mangoes or mango puree. Everybody is into bag juice...why can't we use some of our local fruits to produce the same thing. Why are we not seeing Otaheite apple juice, for instance, in bags? It's healthier for the children," she notes, citing a client who produces Otaheite apple balls in a syrup base.

The same concept of opportunities holds true for Tourism, Ms. Veira pointed out. "If we have a group of producers within that sector...we can encourage them to have small producer complexes, where the tourist can come and see them producing.

So that it becomes, not only income generating from a production standpoint, but it becomes a tourist attraction," she reasoned.

The JBDC's pivotal role in guiding MSME stakeholder development, positions it as a conduit through which multilateral agency programme funding and assistance flows to this very vital sector. One such, Ms. Veira highlighted, is the European Union-funded Private Sector Development Programme (PSDP), which ended recently.

The PSDP was a Euro26.17 million fiveyear joint initiative between the Government of Jamaica and the European Union (EU), which was established to address specific challenges facing MSMEs and their support organisations. The JBDC's collaborative input came by way of

the Cluster Sector Initiative, which was aimed at stimulating new and innovative ways of doing business by encouraging partnerships and collaboration among stakeholders involved in specific activities or "value chains," in which common interests are shared.

Ms. Veira informed JIS News that the JBDC had responsibility for five clusters: Jamaica Fashion and Apparel Cluster; Gift and Craft Cluster; Jamaica Wellness Cluster; Small Ruminants Cluster; and Egg Industry Cluster, adding that the agency worked with some 384 stakeholders. A total of $20 million, she adds, was allocated to each cluster to assist with administrative and developmental activities.

The extent of assistance which the JBDC provided to the stakeholders, included: training in the areas of business plan writing, record keeping and marketing; hosting of technical workshops focusing on patternmaking, training and collection development; technical assistance to execute product packaging, labelling and design; the facilitation of local and international trade show/expo participation; sourcing of special equipment; and formalisation of the clusters.

These actions, Ms. Veira pointed out, have resulted in the clusters securing extensive product exposure in both the local and international markets; more efficient and productive operations; proper labelling and packaging of their products; procurement of high-value contracts; and new contacts being established for suppliers and buyers.

Clusters Chart Success She pointed out that activities under Fashion did "very well," that "many good products" have come from Gift and Craft, which is "forever, a possibility for expansion," and Wellness being an "umbrella that keeps expanding." Regarding Small Ruminants, primarily goats and sheep, Ms. Veira said this area has "just blossomed."

"During Christmas, I had lamb ham...there were lamb burgers and sausages of top quality. So, I'm hoping that an off shoot of that will be where they use the skin to do craft," she says.

The Egg Cluster is, perhaps, the area that has presented the greatest "surprise" for the JBDC, standing out as a beacon.

Describing this area as "exciting," Ms. Veira pointed out that the egg farmers are exporting eggs, and at Christmas they exported some 27,000 dozen to Trinidad.

"Usually, it's the other way around," she informed.

Ms. Veira highlighted several areas in fashion where stakeholders could seek opportunities, including children's clothing, leisure wear and swimsuits. She says the JBDC will also be placing greater attention on the area of wellness, focusing particularly on the creation of new products using more local raw material, such as ginger, lemon grass and others.

Regarding the future of the Clusters, in the post-PSDP period, Ms. Veira assured that these are expected to continue, pointing out that they will become regular clients of the JBDC and have access to business development services, technical support, ongoing skills training, including industry specific training, and have the services offered by the JBDC's Incubator and Resource Centre at their disposal.

"The JBDC will also support the clusters in their applications for funding from local and overseas donors, in order to ensure the sustainability of their operations and activities."

Douglas McIntosh - JIS

Jamaica's bold new small businesses to be showcased A

programme to recognise and highlight recently established small businesses and provide them with necessary publicity and support to enhance their operations, was launched on March 2 at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston.

A partnership between the Jamaica Manufacturers' Association (JMA) and Continental Baking Company Limited (National Baking), the initiative dubbed: 'The Bold Ones: New Champions of Manufacturing' will focus on new and successful businesses that have displayed excellence in their products, having met several criteria in the process.

These include, but are not limited to, being in business for less than seven years; employing five or more persons; is tax compliant; and uses indigenous resources in their production.

The companies will be provided with the opportunity and assistance to enhance the visibility of their products through avenues such as the Expo Jamaica 2010 trade show, which will be held from June 17 to 20, 2010 at the National Arena in Kingston. A total of 18 companies have been shortlisted, with the final selections to be announced at the end of March.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, lauded the effort, noting that it will add to the programmes already being undertaken by the Government to promote Jamaica's economic development by strengthening the small business sector.

He said that the success of small businesses can help to inspire an entire generation of Jamaican entrepreneurs, who will be proud to have their products read: 'Made in Jamaica!'

Chairman of Continental Baking Company, Gary

Hendrickson, in his remarks, explained that by highlighting these enterprising and successful small businesses, the hope is to inspire other Jamaicans to take the initiative to explore their own possibilities.

Manufacturing Sector Resilient President of the JMA, Omar Azan, in the meantime, noted that the manufacturing sector has

mentation, and hard work that goes into a successful business.

Business-oriented supplements/ programmes, features and interviews will be made available, in addition to newspaper features, which will encourage public support.

Expo Jamaica 2010 is a partnership of the JMA and the Jamaica Exporters Association (JEA) and will be held under the theme: 'Brand Jamaica to the

Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern (left) and President of the Jamaica Manufacturers Assn., Omar Azan (right) listen as Chairman, Continental Baking Company, Gary Hendrickson makes a point during the launch of 'The Bold Ones: New Champions of Manufacturing' initiative at the Knutsford Court Hotel.

remained resilient contributing US$1,244.7 million to foreign exchange earnings and 8.5 per cent of gross domestic product, employing 70,000 persons. "Our productivity has out performed many other sectors," he stated.

In addition to participating in the June trade show, the "bold ones" will be featured in an 'ads on wheels' campaign, through attention-grabbing wrap graphics, which will be placed on some of the National Baking Company's over 100 delivery trucks across the island.

A video series on the entrepreneurs will be produced for local television channels showing the process of planning, interaction with suppliers, focused imple-

World!'

The event will promote the world class quality products and services that Jamaica has to offer in an effort to expand sales, enhance the visibility of products made in Jamaica, and drive the consumption of locally manufactured goods.

It will also highlight the significant contribution of manufacturers, exporters and service providers to Jamaica's socio-economic development by creating jobs, earning foreign exchange, and contributing to government revenue.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS

March 8 - 14, 2010

Support for small hotels still strong

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mall hotels represent a third, or just under 10,000 of Jamaica's hotel room stock, and despite the all inclusive concept, have contributed significantly to the growth of the hospitality sector over many years.

They represent the entrepreneurial spirit of many Jamaicans, President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA),

quite significantly for them, so that continues.

We also tried to have them ramp up their marketing, particularly with the established trade shows on the marketing calendar," he outlined.

Mr. Cummings points out that the profile of visitors to small properties vary, and include an interesting mix of people, such as the budget conscious, and those who are looking for a more intimate vacation experience, but do not

Villa Bella Hotel in Christiana, Manchester

necessarily have less of a disposable income.

The support and assistance being provided by the Government has proven to be critical.

Mr. Cummings says the government has been playing its part in keeping small properties viable, with the strengthening of the regulatory framework.

He also notes that ensuring that minimum standards are kept for operating any accommodation, has been the mantra of the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo).

"We believe that there has been reasonable consistency in that regard. The JHTA is a little wary of over-regulation, but you do need to have minimum standard," he tells JIS News.

Mr.Wayne Cummings tells JIS News, and they must receive continuous support. "They may not necessarily have the resources to be innovative, but they employ a lot of people, they are in a lot of places and they are truly representative of what Jamaica is," he says.

Mr. Cummings explains that small hotels have taken a beating from the global economic recession, as they are naturally less competitive due to their higher operational costs. "It's been quite difficult.

There have been some successes, however.

There are some properties that have found their niche on the Internet as well as in specific marketplaces - case in point are some of the hotels on the west end of Negril," he notes.

Added to overheads is the fact that occupancy on average for small hotels have been far less than for the larger hotel category.

"If the national average was about 62 per cent in 2009, I would say that they did closer to 45 per cent, which in many instances does not necessarily equate to breaking even," Mr. Cummings informs.

JHTA working with small hotels He says the JHTA has done a lot of work with the small hotels, especially toward the end of 2008 when the recession was bearing down.

"We spoke with them about some of their operational needs, gave them pointers with regard to renegotiating their contracts, particularly their buying contracts," he notes.

The Association also helped the hotels to assess the strength of their management tools, particularly in hiring, and their purchasing power.

"A number of those (measures) have worked

Initiatives from the TEF Mr. Cummings also cited a number of novel initiatives that the Ministry of Tourism, through TPDCo and the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), have put in place to help.

"When you're in an environment where the banking sector has interest rates well in excess of 20 per cent, for the TEF, through Jamaica National, to make funds available - three million dollar loans at 3 per cent interest - when you're small, that makes a world of difference," he argues.

In July 2008, in partnership with Jamaica National Building Society, the Ministry undertook that initiative to assist with product enhancement and, operational and administrative activities. Under the 'Spruce Up Jamaica Entrepreneurial Fund', a maximum of $3 million was available to each property, repayable over 60 months.

Announcing the Fund in July, 2008, Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, had said that the initiative was to ensure that communities as

well as small and medium enterprises within the tourism industry are given an opportunity for development, and for them to play their part in driving job creation as well as providing the income flows for communities and the economy.

Mr. Cummings says that one of the challenges that was faced by the TEF in releasing the funds was that many small hotels did not have their Tax Compliance Certificates (TCC).

However, the TEF Board agreed to allow these properties to use some of the funds to put their accounts in order, so that their TCCs could be issued.

Later in the year, Prime Minister, Hon. Bruce Golding announced a stimulus package for the sector, which offered a 50 per cent cut in General Consumption Tax (GCT), a loan scheme, and an increased marketing budget.

Mr. Cummings asserts that beyond the TEF facility, the GCT waiver, which the sector was able to access from January to September 2009, was perhaps the most aggressive and meaningful facility that was available to the sector.

"From what they would have had to turn over to the Tax Administration Department, they were only required to turn over half of it, which provided a lot of space for them to be able to retain employment and maintain cash flow.� “Last year was very tough- prices contracted, occupancies fell and they couldn't access commercial loans as bridge financing, so the GCT was meaningful, moreso than the others," he added.

Executive Director of the TEF, Mr. Ian Neita, explains that separate from the GCT reprieve, the $100 million line of credit which was introduced as part of the stimulus package, targeted two specific areas of the sector.

These included transport, for which a total of $50 million was allocated to assist contract carriage operators within the industry to purchase new vehicles. Each operator could access $1 million, at an interest rate of three per cent, over a five-year period.

Additionally, the TEF provided a special assistance package of $50 million to small properties to allow them to continue to focus on marketing, systems improvement, and product development in the tourism sector.

Mr. Neita says the initiative, which was announced in January, 2009, has been very suc-

cessful, as to date, some 55 loans have been disbursed for small property development, and 15 for transportation, totalling $160 million.

The Executive Director tells JIS News that in addition to government's assistance, small properties appear to be putting up their own fight.

"In talking to them, you get the feeling that they are finding ways to do things more efficiently, co-operating with each other. They are really looking now to develop this whole concept of community tourism.

What they have been forced to do is find niches, in which they can find a space to distinguish themselves, thereby making themselves a little bit more competitive.

A number of them are struggling, because the landscape is changing, whereby there are large hotels that are able to provide rates that are very competitive. For some of them, it's still difficult," he says.

By July 2009, Minister Bartlett announced in the House of Representatives during the Sectoral Debate that the stimulus package had enabled the provision of cash flow support of $634 million to the sector, to sustain jobs and maintain growth.

Second fund to be launched Speaking to plans for the sector, Mr. Neita discloses that another entrepreneurial fund is to be launched, but will be different from the Spruce Up Jamaica Fund, whereby "if you want to access this fund, you have to actually match it with some equity of your own. We are yet to determine the ratio," he says.

This fund is geared mainly toward new, startup, and young businesses, to allow them room to maneuver against high interest rates. Another $100 million has been set aside for this fund.

"It is a time of re-examination of the way business is done. There is going to be a need for partnership - private and public sector," Mr. Neita observes. He says that in devising policies that will drive this vital sector, the crime situation must be tackled.

The Executive Director emphasises that the small hotel has its place in the industry, as they generate employment, and provide a unique product that visitors like. "We intend to support that," he assures.

U.S. Embassy moves to paperless visa system

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he U.S. Embassy in Kingston announces that as of Wednesday, March 24, 2010 it will accept only online visa applications, doing away with the paper-based forms familiar to applicants.

On March 24, use of the new form becomes mandatory and the U.S. Embassy will no longer accept printed DS-156 nonimmigrant visa applications. Form DS-160, the new electronic form, will be available on the embassy's website (www.kingston.usembassy.gov) beginning Thursday, March 4, 2010 for optional use by applicants. Applicants are encouraged to begin using the new DS-160 form as soon as it becomes available.

The new DS-160 form, which will replace the current paper-based DS-156 non-immigrant visa application, must be completed and sent online and the information on the application will be electronically transmitted to the U.S. Embassy. The new system is expected to improve efficiency, accuracy, and security for all visa applicants.

Beginning March 24, 2010, non-immigrant visa applicants need only present at their interviews a printed DS-160 confirmation sheet issued at the time of the electronic filing, their passport, and a visa application fee-paid receipt from any National Commercial Bank Jamaica (NCB) branch.

The transition to the DS-160 online form will not change any other portion of the current nonimmigrant visa application process. Specifically, the processes for making an appointment and paying the visa application fee will not change and all applicants will still be interviewed by a consular officer to determine their qualifications.

Prospective nonimmigrant visa applicants should visit the embassy's website for instructions on the complete visa application process.

MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

EU launches J$160M fund for farmers

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ore than 900 farmers and ex banana workers in banana dependent parishes will benefit from four new grant projects being funded under the European Union Banana Support Programme (EUBSP).

The projects will receive financial assistance of 1.29 million or J$160 million in addition to their own contributions.

The grants have been awarded to The Competitiveness Company, Christian Aid, Forest Conservancy and the Cocoa Industry Board.

The projects will among other things focus on diversification, increasing productivity of alternate crops, infrastructure improvements, training and the establishment of new markets.

Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Christopher Tufton, who gave the main address at the launch, lauded the support of the EU, pointing out that Jamaica already has what it takes to position itself to take full advantage of the global market.

He added that while it was important to find new products and markets, this did not signal the end of the banana industry.

The agriculture minister said efforts are being made to find new avenues of export for the industry.

Head of Rural Development at the

Delegation of the European Union to Jamaica, Federico Berna, in commending the achievements of the EUBSP, managed by RADA said: "What we have seen today is only a small testament of what can be achieved when a donor, such as the EU, works hand in hand with the institutional counterpart.

These accomplishments however are only possible when there is a clear vision on the development path, ownership by the recipient, and clear guidance such as the one provided by this Ministry."

The four grants projects launched Rural under the EUBSP Diversification Project brings to ten the number of projects implemented over the last three years, and has so far benefited 2500 persons directly and a significant number of persons indirectly.

The EUBSP was established to help the industry to come to terms with the increased market liberalization and erosion of preferential access to the EU. Throughout this period, the programme has funded several initiatives geared towards enhancing alternative viable livelihood opportunities for persons in the target communities who have been affected by the decline of the sector.

New hot pepper processing facility for St. Bess farmers P epper farmers in St. Elizabeth stand to benefit from the establishment of a hot pepper processing facility in Hounslow in the parish.

Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, making the announcement at a town hall meeting at the St. Peter's Anglican Church in Pedro Plains on Friday February 18, said that the facility should start operations in about two months.

He informed that the company setting up the processing plant is a major exporter of hot pepper sauce to Central America and Europe.

"We have a competitive advantage in hot pepper so I want to see in this irrigation district, farmers doing the training sessions that we will provide to start planting and growing hot pepper, because that company is going to contract a lot of farmers to grow as much pepper as possible to make hot pepper sauce," he stated.

In the meantime, he urged farmers in the parish to take advantage of the increased support being provided through the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and the National Irrigation Commission (NIC) to increase their yields.

"We are not just encouraging you

to grow more, we have provided additional RADA (extension and marketing officers), who have to be re-trained every year. We are providing post harvest facility and we are giving you water management techniques, so that the cost of the water is not as expensive as it would have been if you did not manage it properly," he stated.

Minister Tufton said that the Government will not relent on its mission to foster increased production so that the appetite for imported foods can be reduced.

He urged that players in the sector to manage the land and water resources efficiently, so that agriculture can be sustainable.

"How we manage the critical resources of land and water to ensure that we get the best yields from the soil out of our agricultural effort is crucial. We have the best lands, and we have to make the best use of them," Dr. Tufton stated.

He informed that "we will be going through our database to look at persons, who have access to lands by ownership or by leased arrangements, and provide information and technical support and access to low cost money to (help them) invest in agriculture."

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Mechanical cane harvesting in St. Elizabeth

Cabinet approves Commission to review sugar industry

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abinet has approved the appointment of a Commission to review, enquire and make recommendations as to changes, if any, to the current regulatory, institutional and pricing arrangements in the sugar sector.

This was disclosed by Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, in a statement to the House of Representatives on February 23.

Dr. Tufton informed that the overall objective of the review is to establish the relevance of the current regulatory, institutional and pricing arrangements in the sugar industry, given the changes in the domestic and international environment.

The Minister said the House of Representatives will be advised of the name of the proposed Commissioner.

"Given the prospect of a sugar cane industry dominated by private players and the changing sugar market situation in Europe, which has resulted from the ending

of the sugar Protocol, it is now critical that a review of the industry's regulatory, institutional and cane pricing arrangements is undertaken," Dr. Tufton said.

"In fact, under the European Union Accompanying Measures for Sugar (AMS) Programme, the Government of Jamaica has undertaken to restructure the regulatory and institutional framework of the sector.

A review of the relevance of the current regulatory and pricing arrangements in this sector is part of the specific conditions for release of approximately Euro17 million (J$2.2 billion) of European Union grant funds during Financial Year 2010/11," he added.

Meanwhile, Dr. Tufton said that the Government remains optimistic about the future of the sugar industry.

"We are greatly encouraged by the significant improvement in world sugar prices linked to the shortfall in sugar production in India. We are further encouraged by the opportunities in our domestic and regional markets for both raw and refined sugar," Dr. Tufton said.

Teddies Wash Day: The teddy bear collection at a house in Porus, Manchester gets hung out to dry.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

48,000 students registered for GSAT N

Kids day out. Basic school students and their teachers enjoying a doy out in Mandeville

St. Bess community gets upgraded basic schools

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Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and Member of Parliament for South West St. Elizabeth, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton ( 2nd row, 2nd left), assists teacher at the Cataboo Basic School in Slipe, St. Elizabeth, Marsha McCallum (left), to cut the ribbon at the handing over and dedication ceremony of the upgraded school on Friday February 19. Heaven.

Teacher at the Cataboo Basic School, Marsha McCallum (2nd left) interacts with her students, while teacher at Slipe Basic School, Alemena Arthurs (left) shares in the moment.

Early Childhood Education Supervisor at the Ministry of Education, Patricia Black (centre), and basic school teachers in the Slipe community of St. Elizabeth. Occasion was the handing over and dedication of the upgraded Slipe (SDA) Early Childhood Institution in the parish on Friday February 19.

he community of Slipe in St. Elizabeth now boasts three modern basic schools, which were built by the Culture, Health, Arts, Science and Education (CHASE) Fund at a cost of $31 million.

The institutions, which were officially opened and dedicated on Friday February 19, are Cataboo and Slipe Basic Schools and the Slipe (SDA) Early Childhood Institution.

The new concrete buildings, which replace dilapidated plywood structures, are fully furnished, boasting male and female bathrooms, kitchens, offices, sick bays, play areas and safety features, which are required for early childhood institutions, under the Early Childhood Act. Speaking at the dedication ceremony for the Cataboo Basic School, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and Member of Parliament for South West St. Elizabeth, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, said the Government is committed to providing the best learning environment for young minds. He implored the residents to take care of the facilities.

"This is a gift to the community of Slipe. It is for your interest and for your development. It is for you to protect and preserve," he stated.

"Ensure that it is used for the purpose that it is intended- that is to make sure that every youngster learns to read and write," Dr. Tufton added, while urging the teachers and administrators to "rise to the occasion so that these young minds can be good citizens and children of this community."

Chief Executive Officer of the CHASE Fund, W. Billy Heaven, said that in addition to providing high-quality buildings, children must be supported by good nutrition, qualified teachers, and good governance practices.

He also urged the community to "take care of the buildings, use them wisely, use them well and use them only for the purposes intended. Use them to achieve positive outcomes and create a better Jamaica through early childhood education."

Early Childhood Education Supervisor at the Ministry of Education, Patricia Black, noted that the buildings were in keeping with the requirement of the Early Childhood Commission and will aid in the development of the children of Slipe.

"We celebrate not just structures made of blocks, cement and steel, but the dedication of schools where thousands of sparks will be lighting fires as they journey through the gates of the institutions. Let us hope that these schools will raise the bar for us by creating positive students that will show their family that they are capable of great things," she stated.

At the ribbon cutting ceremony held at the Slipe (SDA) Early Childhood Institution, Principal Teslin Dennis, expressed gratitude for the new structure, which she said will help to enhance learning.

"The school was in a deplorable condition.we now have a proper school and we give thanks for it. This is an upliftment for the community, three schools built in one community, we are grateful for this opportunity," Miss Dennis said.

early 48,200 students have so far been registered to sit this year's Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) on March 25 and March 26 for placement in high school.

This according to Acting Chief Education Officer with responsibility for the Student Assessment Unit in the Ministry of Education, Dr. Sephlin Myers-Thomas.

"All efforts are being made by every section, every member of staff and supporting agencies, and companies that have been contracted by the Ministry, to have the exam administered as scheduled. We have approximately 48,200 students registered to date, but as we speak the data are being verified so that the final numbers expected to actually sit on March 25 and 26 will be correct," Dr. Myers-Thomas said, while noting that after the verification of the data, the total number of students should decrease rather than increase.

"There are instances when persons have written to the Ministry requesting withdrawal of their students and there might have been some students whose birth certificates would now reveal that they are over aged," the Acting Chief Education Officer pointed out.

She noted that there are 1,004 public and private schools that have entered students for the examinations, of which 797 are public and 207 private institutions. Included in the number are 17 children who have been home schooled.

The GSAT questions are drawn from different aspects of the grades four, five and six curricula.

"There is a guideline that is sent to schools to indicate the scope and the areas that will be covered. There are five papers, inclusive of the communication task. Four papers are multiple choice, all of which would have 80 items, except science, that would have 60 items.

The communication task has two activities - a stimulus material is presented and the students have to extract the information from that piece of stimulus material and answer the questions, and then there is the open ended composition type essay that has to be written," Dr. Myers-Thomas said.

She added that even though the GSAT will be externally administered, education and student assessment officers will monitor the administration of the exam by doing spot checks on both days.

In the meantime Dr. MyersThomas is urging parents not to hover over the students at the examination centres.

"It has been observed that parents are usually more anxious than the children and I am saying to them please do not pass on any undue anxiety or stress to them. Let them be themselves, just give them the encouragement they need. I also ask that if they do not do as you expect, love them just the same, they are yours and they will achieve," she urged, while noting that students sitting the GSAT should remain focused.

"Be confident in yourself. Get enough rest, especially on the night before the examination. Eat a good breakfast in the morning and take along enough pencils, so that you will have them at your disposal to use. Listen to the instructions of the examiners and concentrate on your own work," she advised.

The examination begins at 8:30 a.m. with administrative matters to be handled and the actual sitting of the exam starts at about 9:05 a.m.

Mathematics and Social Studies will be done on March 25, with Language Arts, Communication Task and Science on March 26. Schools that will operate as centres for the exam will remain closed on both days.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

Tombstone, Lacovia

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he posters plastered on these two tombs in front of the Texaco gas station in Lacovia, St. Elizabeth, is a sad reflection of the lack of interest or care that many Jamaicans show in historic structures, many of which have the potential to generate income from the growing number of tourists seeking offbeat and unusual attractions.

And while they provide a 'resting place' for many residents of the area awaiting public transportation, very few have any knowledge of their history or significance.

Some persons are not even aware that they are graves, which even a cursory examination of the faded inscription that remains on one of structures would reveal.

In fact, historic records reveal that the Lacovia tombs contain the remains of two gentlemen who attended some form of celebration at a nearby tavern over three hundred years ago where they came to blows, resulting in both their deaths.

Maybe to serve as a warning, both men were buried beside each other on the public thoroughfare.

While one of the tombs no longer bears an inscription, the other claims that the body of Thomas Jordan Spencer who died on September 17, 1738, resides there-in. Spencer's tombstone bears a crest which indicates that he was a relative of Charles Spencer, 3rd Duke of Marlborough (1706-1758).

This is the same lineage that produced Sir Winston Spencer Churchill, the famous World War

For those who are in the know, stories as to the identity of who is entombed there are many and varied- some claiming that the vaults hold the remains of an un-named man and his favourite dog, while others speak of Mary Lee who was too proud to let her fart fly free and died from a buildup of flatulence.

ll Prime Minister of England.

If this information is factual, then it would make the tombs and the story behind them of even more historic significance and value.

In the meantime, they continue to deteriorate while serving as a seat for the weary and a billboard for the latest 'dutty wine' session.

MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

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Police seeking call-tracing law

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Looking good! Members of the Manchester police department patrol the town of Mandeville in one of the new Suzuki motor vehicles recently acquired by the government to augment the fleet of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

State Minister endorses Business Directory

Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern (right), accepts copy of a business directory from President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Winston Lawson, at the launch of the publication. At left is Miss Jessica Williams, a member of the Editorial team which worked on the publication.

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inister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, has commended the Manchester Chamber of Commerce for producing a business directory, describing it as a tool for economic development.

The Minister, who was addressing the launch of the book, at the Golf View Hotel, on February 23, noted that the contents of the publication dealing with skills in the parish, business opportunities, the listing of Government agencies, and other organisations offering different services, are of great importance to the business community.

"When you look at the information in this book, it is a tool to get your products out there, and the potential for this magazine is great.

And in the next few years, every business person will want to use it as a tool. The vision of having a book like this means well for the business community," he said.

He argued that in today's world, information be must be communicated precisely and timely, for the growth and development of enterprises.

"Many people coming to the parish of Manchester need to know where to go for specific projects, skills, equipment, human capacity, and Government agencies. And the magazine serves to do all that," the State Minister said.

In his message, President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Winston Lawson, said that the directory provides relevant and accurate data concerning varied products and services across Manchester.

"The parish is ripe for investments, given the tremendous resources of skilled human capital, minerals, agricultural products, heritage and other sites of interest," Mr. Lawson noted.

Meanwhile, Public Relations Officer for the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Clive Williams, said the directory seeks to promote and enhance the business climate in the parish. "It is our hope that information contained in this directory will stimulate the entrepre-

neurial drive of the population, and lead to the creation of many new businesses," Mr. Williams said.

The business directory also contains information dealing with the creation of new businesses, business regulations, tax compliance, business profiles, funding options, and dealing with the export markets.

he Police have asked the Government to put in place measures that will allow for cellular calls to be traced as part of strategies to fight crime, Prime Minister, the Hon. Bruce Golding has said.

"The Police have complained about the effect of cell phone usage in facilitating crime. The cell phone is a wonderful thing. It has brought magic to everyday life, but it has also brought magic to criminals and it is playing an increasingly significant role in the commission of crime. We are going to have to respond," the Prime Minister said.

Mr. Golding, who was closing the debate on the Cyber Crimes Act, which was passed by the House of Representatives on February 16, added that he has sought advice on the matter from Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Senator the Hon. Dorothy Lightbourne.

"The matter has not been to Cabinet. I have asked the Attorney General to examine the existing provision. The intention is subject to legal guidance, either through exercising authority that we have under the licences or if necessary, coming to Parliament and asking Parliament to enact legislation. We are going to have to impose a requirement that when you go to purchase a cell phone or a SIM card, you are going to be required to produce your identification, which must be recorded," Mr. Golding said.

He noted further that telecommunications service providers have a responsibility under the Act to exercise due diligence about the use of its facilities.

"A service provider provides a highway and we are saying to the service provider, you have to police the highway. You have to play a role in policing the highway to make sure that people are not using your highway to commit crime. You are going to have to do your own due diligence, put in your security systems, because this wonderful facility that has transformed the lives of all of us is potentially lethal and, therefore, have to be handled with great care," Mr. Golding emphasised.

The Cyber Crimes Act imposes criminal sanctions on the misuse of computer systems or data.

Offences covered include intentional unauthorised access to computer data; access to computer programmes or data, with intent to commit an offence; intentional unauthorised modification of a computer programme or data; unauthorised interception of computer function or service; willful unauthorised obstruction of the operation of a computer or denial of access to a computer programme or data; and unlawfully making available, devices or data for the commission of any of the above offences.

The Bill also makes consequential amendments to the Interception of Communications Act, the Mutual Assistance (Criminal Matters) Act, and the Proceeds of Crime Act.

MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

Agriculture Ministry maps arable land in Clarendon

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he Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in placing focus on the Clarendon plains as it seeks to develop a policy to identify and put the country's most arable lands into production.

Portfolio Minister, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, first revealed details of the agricultural land use policy last October.

Chief Executive Officer of the National Irrigation Commission, Stanley Rampair, speaking at the launch of the Arable Lands Irrigated and Growing for the Nation (ALIGN) project at Clarendon Park recently, said that the Clarendon plains have the largest tract of available arable land in the country amounting to just over 100, 000 acres.

The irrigation district is 32,000 acres, with only 12,000 acres fully cultivated. About 20 per cent of the lands are owned by government and more than 40 per cent by private persons, with the remainder still to be accounted for.

"Clarendon has excellent soils; it has a wide variety of soils. All of these lands can do extensive cultivation, meaning that we can plough them, harrow them, furrow them and bring them into production pretty quickly in a very efficient and intensive way," Mr. Rampair said.

He said that the most suitable crops for the area include sugar cane, rice, corn, sorghum, sweet potato, banana, plantain, cotton, sorrel, and vegetables such as pepper, tomatoes and onions.

Tree crops like mangoes, avocadoes, breadfruit and ackee are also ideal, in addition to poultry, pig and fish farming, shrimp and apiary culture, and pasture land.

Dr. Tufton, in the meantime, informed that work is underway on the agricultural land use policy. He said that the aim is to engage the lands that are most arable and "we must find a way to do it whether it is private or public."

Available Land According to Dr. Tufton, Jamaica has approximately 2.7 million acres of land and approximately 17 per cent are arable lands, amounting to

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ayor of Black River, Councillor Jeremy Palmer, has appealed to persons in St. Elizabeth to desist from lighting fires, as this is causing a drain on the recourses of the fire brigade in the parish.

Speaking to journalists after the monthly meeting of the Council on February 11, the Mayor pointed out that there are laws governing the ways fires can be lit, and called for the public education programme to be stepped up, to save properties from being destroyed.

"In this drought, I sense that people set fire to things that they don't need. People like to burn garbage, they are clearing a piece of land and

a little over 400,000 acres. The majority of these lands are located in the plains of St. Catherine, Clarendon, St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland with small strips on the north coast.

"Some of those lands we have control over as government and those lands we are going to utilise in the best possible ways to get into production," Dr. Tufton said. He noted however that a lot of these properties are privately owned "and we want to begin by using moral persuasion to encourage persons to engage the land. If you are not so inclined, then we want to help you to find someone, who can engage the land through a leasing or sub-leasing arrangement."

As part of the initiative, the Government's land portfolio is being reviewed, including the leasing arrangements, with the aim of standardising the terms and conditions and linking the leases to productivity actively.

"So, if you lease the land you must have a business plan. We will help you with the business plan (which will) outline what you are going to do with the land and it must have a time frame. It cannot be for an indefinite period and there should be a clause for termination of the lease if you do not carry through on the commitments that you have made," Dr. Tufton explained.

He informed that the committee undertaking the review has almost completed its work.

Mayor calls for citizens to stop lighting fires there is no need to light a fire, because the bush and the land are not that thick. But they just like to set fires," he said.

Mr. Palmer made the comment against the background of a report made to the Council meeting by the parish's Fire Department that members had to respond to some 171 fires in the month of January, with several being bush fires.

The report stated that the Fire Brigade was able to save properties valued at over $90 million, and noted that the department recently acquired a water tender with a capacity for 20,000 litres of water to fight fires.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

The Auto Zone

MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS MARCH 8 - 14, 2010

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March 8 - 14, 2010

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Mandeville youth donate over $465,000 to Haiti

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ore help has come for the people of Haiti via two youth groups in Mandeville, which have raised $465,000 in cash and kind for the relief effort.

Recently, representatives from A Brighter Day Foundation and Young Women of Purpose (Y-WoP), handed over 15 boxes of clothing, shoes and school bags to the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), valued at $402,300.

The items, which were contributed by residents and businesses, were included in the agency's donation to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) for shipment to Haiti.

In addition $62,700, which represents sums raised at a 'One Million Can' fundraising walk staged by the youth groups on January 23, as well as contribution from entertainment company New Image and Total Supermarket and Wholesale, has been deposited in ODPEM's Haiti relief account.

At the handing over held at Total Supermarket's car park, Councillor Brenda Ramsay said the gesture by the youngsters demonstrates that hope exists in the country.

"It says something about the people that we are. In spite of our own difficult situations, we are willing and ready to stretch a hand of friendship and kindness to others in their

time of need. Jamaica needs more of you. Keep on being the shining example, and say to others, as the youth, "we can," she stated.

Chief Executive Officer of the JIS, Mrs. Donna Marie-Rowe, who received the boxes of items, also had commendations for the youth groups.

"Our future is very secure. Your compassion is outstanding, and I am sure that the Government agencies that are working on behalf of Haiti will be very pleased with this contribution that you have made," she said.

Floor Supervisor at Total Supermarket and Wholesale, Ms. Sherinne Samuels expressed the hope that the donation "will help to make someone's life more comfortable."

Ten arrested, hundreds of illegal connections removed since January in JPS anti-theft drive

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he Jamaica Public Service Co. Ltd. (JPS) is reporting success from its intensified campaign against electricity theft since the start of

2010.

Ten arrests are already on record for the first half of January; while for the same period, 1,129 illegal connections or 'throw-ups' have been removed from across Manchester, St. Catherine, and the Kingston Metropolitan Area.

Five of the 10 arrests were residential customers, including 4 women. The commercial enterprises in which irregularities were found included: a bar, a nightclub, a woodwork shop, a wholesale supermarket, tour company, restaurant and clothing retailer.

In addition to the removal of illegal connections, the newly created Loss Control Division has inspected several meters and detected irregularities such as line taps, meter bypasses and meter tampering. The anti-theft strategies implemented by JPS since the start of the year, excluding the removal of throw-ups, have so far contributed to the recovery of an estimated $6.5M. The light and power Company, which has declared war on non-technical losses, has earmarked J$6 Billion over the next 5 years, to fight this scourge. JPS aims to reduce losses by 2.03 percent this year, and by at least 1 percentage point each year from 2011 to 2014.

Approximately 13% of electricity generated is lost to theft.

Clarendon and Manchester schools receive Jamalco educational supplies donation Government Affairs at Jamalco, Mr. Leo Lambert, pointed to several educational initiatives undertaken by the company in host communities.

These include a mentorship programme at Vere Technical High School that is being expanded to two other schools this year; a Documentation Skills programme; a Road Safety and School Warden project being implemented at six schools in Clarendon and Manchester; and an educational assistance proStudents from schools in Clarendon and Manchester show off some of the texts donated by Jamalco under its 2010 book distribution programme. Sharing the moment with the students gramme. are Jamalco's Managing Director, Jerome Maxwell (front row, left); Literacy Specialist in the Mr. Lambert informed that Ministry of Education, Collette Morris (back row, left) and Jamalco Corporate Services and during the course of this year the Government Affairs Manager, Leo Lambert (back row, right). company's employees will chools in Jamalco's mining communities in increase their participation in the Jamalco in Schools proManchester and Clarendon are to receive some gramme by acting as resource persons to the schools.

30,000 textbooks under the company's annual Literacy Specialist attached to the Ministry of book distribution programme.

Education Region Five Office, Ms. Collette Morris, comThe texts, which are to be distributed, were donated by mended Jamalco for the book distribution initiative and a number of United States publishers and shipped to the urged the students to care for the books while urging the island by Alcoa Foundation. teachers to ensure that they are readily available for use At the launch of the 2010 programme held recently at by the students. the Halse Hall Great House in Clarendon, Jamalco's Each school in Jamalco's host communities in Managing Director, Mr. Jerome Maxwell, informed that Clarendon and Manchester will receive an assortment of as part of the initiative, some 200 science kits will also be books in addition to the science kits. The company is also distributed. He said the programme should not be regard- working with the Ministry of Education's regional offices ed as a donation, but as a partnership leading to the suc- in Clarendon and Manchester to ensure that the schools cess of the students who will use the material. that have low levels of literacy receive books.

He stated that Jamalco is committed to helping schools Jamalco has distributed some 560,000 texts under the and that the book programme was just one aspect of its book distribution programme over the last 29 years. outreach activities.

Meanwhile, Manager of Corporate Services and

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Chief Executive of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), Donna Marie-Rowe (2nd left), accepts a certificate from representatives of Young Women of Purpose (YWoP) and A Brighter Day Foundation in Mandeville, which represents $465,000 donation in cash and kind to the agency's Haiti relief effort. Sharing the moment (from left) are, head of YWoP, Lanisia Rhoden; Mayor of Mandeville, Councillor Brenda Ramsay; Yukari Pryce, a student of Mandeville Primary and Junior High School; Projects Manager at A Brighter Day Foundation, Lisa Dunn and Floor Manager at Total Supermarket and Wholesale, Sherinne Samuels.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS

March 8 - 14, 2010

Ebony Park HEART Academy launches agro-tourism project T

Government supporting youth in agriculture M

inister of Agriculture, Dr. Christopher Tufton, said that Government was pursuing a number of initiatives for young people to pursue a successful career in agriculture.

Responding to a caller on the radio programme, 'Jamaica House Live' recently, Dr. Tufton said there was the need for aspiring agronomists to have financial support for their education.

The soon to be launched Credit Bureau is one facility which will assist farmers in accessing financing.

“We just passed legislation for a Credit Bureau which is going to make it easier and better for young persons who have the ambition and who are committed and disciplined, to access those loan funds even more than they can at this point in time”, the Minister said.

The Credit Bureau will allow persons to build up credit ratings based on their history or loan repayment instead of just collateral.

Minister Tufton also said that his Ministry had a special programme to support young graduates in agriculture.

“We started last year a Youth in Agriculture programme where we advertised to attract young people with tertiary level agricultural training. We have put them in a pool. We have helped them to develop business plans, linked them to arable lands and provided them with soft loans that do not require the traditional forms of collateral. We have a number of them in the system.”

According to Minister Tufton, the agricultural sector saw an overall 20% increase in the last quarter and 1,200 new agro investors entered the sector last year.

he Clarendon-based Ebony Park HEART Academy on Friday March 5 unveiled its agro eco-tourism project, which is a combination of nature and farmrelated activities to attract locals and visitors to the island. The launch was held during Farm Fest 2010, which is Ebony Park's annual agricultural show.

Through the project, visitors are encouraged to experience agricultural life firsthand and participate in activities such as horseback riding, walking a nature trail, fishing, animal petting, bird watching, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Chief Technical Director in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr. Marc Panton, commended Ebony Park for undertaking the project, noting that agro eco-tourism ventures hold "huge potential" for Jamaica.

"We are uniquely poised to utilise our natural resources to increase the income of our farmers, communities and by extension our economy. As a government, we must do more to explore these untapped resources to the betterment of both the agriculture and tourism sectors," he stated.

"We should not only aim to (provide) visitors with enriching, enjoyable and exciting vis-

iting experiences at our luxurious hotels, but in areas that are distinctly and authentically Jamaican. This experience is available through the avenue of agro-tourism," he added.

Governor-General, His Excellency The Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, commended the staff and students involved in the project, noting that it will attract locals and overseas visitors, who are interested in the blend of agriculture and nature tourism activities.

He also called on the students of Ebony Park to use the training offered at the institution to help develop the country's agricultural industry and enhance food security.

Farm Fest 2010, which was held under the theme: 'Creating Pathways For Sustainable Development,' showcased the best of farm produce and agricultural production practices at the institution.

Patrons enjoyed a farmers market, farm tours, live demonstrations of farm practices, fishing, horseback riding, and a kiddies' corner.

Ebony Park HEART Academy is a residential institution for agricultural training, offering specialised skills in areas such as crop and livestock production, horticulture, aquaculture, apiary, food preservation and management, and farm equipment servicing and operations.

Lacovia Basic School Upgraded Principal of the Tiny Tots Basic School in Lacovia, St. Elizabeth, Sonia Vassell (2nd left), cuts the ribbon to officially open the upgraded institution on Tuesday (Feb. 23), while Executive Director of the Digicel Foundation, Major General Robert Neish (left) assists. Looking on are Chief Executive Officer of the Culture, Health, Arts, Science Education (CHASE) Fund and teacher at the institution, Dawn Thompson.

Teachers and students of the Tiny Tots Basic School in Lacovia, St. Elizabeth, now have improved surroundings to enhance the teaching and learning process. The school was recently expanded by the Culture Health Arts Science and Education (CHASE) Fund and the Digicel Foundation at a cost of more than $15 million.

The institution, which for many years operated from the nearby Vision Deliverance Centre due to lack of space, now boasts four classrooms, staff quarters, a sick bay, male and female bathrooms, a kitchen, a multipurpose room and a play area with perimeter fencing.

"We have been praying for this for a long time and we have finally reached the goal and the children are happy," said member of the school board, Sandra Brown at the handing over ceremony held on Tuesday, February 23 at the Vision Deliverance Centre.

"This is a most exciting time for our community and the future looks much brighter for the students," she added.

Chief Executive Officer of the CHASE Fund, Mr. W. Billy Heaven, said every effort must be made to ensure that the nation's children receive the best education.

"Our children represent our future. Helping one child helps us all. Our future will be dark if we allow this generation to grow up ignorant or illiterate. I challenge the community and all stakeholders to take care of this investment, let us as a people come together and work together so that we can build a better nation for all," he urged.

Executive Director of the Digicel Foundation, Major General Robert Neish, in his remarks, called on residents to unite around the education of the children.

"We hope that this will make the community stronger (with) parents participating in the PTA meetings, the teachers expanding their own knowledge and giving back more to the students, and the community at large supporting the school on the various efforts that must keep it going," he said.

Meanwhile, Councillor for the Lacovia Division, George Powell, said the upgrading of the school will help to enhance leaning. "The intervention of Digicel and CHASE will make our children better human beings in the future," he stated.

MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS

March 8 - 14, 2010

17

Road fatalities down in first quarter

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ccording to data from the Transport Ministry's Road Safety Unit (RSU), the number of road fatalities for the period January 1 to March 1 has decreased when compared to the same period last year, with 51 people killed in 45 crashes, down from 68 deaths from 51 crashes in 2009.

A total of 341 people were killed in vehicular accidents last year, missing the under-300 target for 2009 set by the National Road Safety Council (NRSC).

Although current accident figures are showing an improvement, the continued road carnage is still placing heavy demand on the resources of the health and security services.

The death toll tell only part of the story.

The figures for persons who suffer injuries are largely undocumented, but are estimated to cost the country tens of millions in health-care expenditure, not to mention loss of

production and the cost of long-term care for many who have been crippled in road accidents.

Speeding and other improper usage of the road network continues to be the major reasons for many of the accidents that take place, but increasingly, defective and unfit motor vehicles have been playing a role in accident figures.

With the police force burdened by the challenges of crime, coupled with the lack of resources, less and less attention is being focused on traffic issues.

Currently, the police traffic division is unable to effectively patrol the country's many roadways because several of their vehicles have had to be re-assigned to other policing duties.

In the meantime, the health ministry has been putting pressure on the transport ministry to be more effective in controlling usage of the roads.

NCU hosts inaugural language conference

T

he Mandeville-based Northern Caribbean University (NCU) recently hosted its first International Language Conference, which brought together language teachers to discuss and explore issues relating to research and practice in the teaching of languages in Jamaica and the wider region.

Organised by the NCU's College of Humanities, Behavioural and Social Sciences and the Department of English and Modern Languages, the one-day conference provided a forum for debate and discussion of ideas surrounding the teaching of reading, writing, composition and literature; created opportunities for collaborative efforts among colleagues for research and publication with a view to national development; and enabled participants to gain better insights into the best language teaching practices.

Governor General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen in a message delivered at

the opening ceremony, stated that the discussion forum, which "encompasses Jamaican Creole, English, French and Spanish, and deals with themes of socio-cultural issues, curriculum development, and pedagogy, is a huge stride in the right direction."

Minister of Education, Hon. Andrew Holness, in his message, stated that the conference was important in highlighting how language imparts knowledge as it nurtures, inspires and awakens the mind.

He said that teachers today must teach language in the context and purpose for which it was invented "to communicate with others, to express one's ideas and feelings, and to understand and interact with the ideas and feelings of other native speakers of a target language."

He noted that the significance of the event was embraced by the Ministry of Education as there is recognition of the interconnectedness of languages for global understanding.

In delivering the keynote address, Special

NSWMA decrys illegal dumping T

he National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) has warned persons using the Spur Tree Road, Manchester, to dispose of their garbage, that they will face prosecution under the Anti Litter Act. The warning came from Public Cleansing Officer attached to the NSWMA, Joan Blake, as she addressed the monthly joint meeting of the Swaby's Citizen's Association at the Swaby's Hope New Testament Church of God, Manchester on Sunday, February 28.

"Recently, we spent a day and cleared the area of dumped waste. It is a no dumping area, and shortly we will be ticketing persons who

dump all kind of things there," she told the audience.

The NSWMA official noted that they have started to make consistent and regular visits to communities to collect waste, adding that the illegal dumping must end.

The collection day for Swaby's Hope and surrounding areas, is on Saturdays, she disclosed.

She also advised that the practice of persons putting sharp instruments and dead animals into waste containers should desist.

"The containers are not placed there for that, and it is a hazard to the health of the sanitation workers," Mrs. Blake said.

Advisor to the Minister of Education, Ruel Reid, remarked that the dynamism of the Caribbean linguistic situation has always posed a challenge for educators whilst at the same time fascinating them.

He said that although Jamaican Creole has no official status as a national language, it is nevertheless, spoken by the majority, and language practitioners have been exploring the nature of the language, how it is used and learnt.

He urged the participants to use the opportunity to share knowledge, skills and experience in ways of enhancing educational practices through modern innovations and strategies.

The conference, held under the theme: 'UnBabel-ing Language: Engendering Global Understanding', was part of the NCU's Language Awareness Week activities from March 1 to 5, which gives local artistes, academics and talented students an opportunity for creative linguistic expression.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTHCOAST NEWS

March 8 - 14, 2010

Teachers get E-Learning ICT certification

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total of 580 teachers have received certification in basic computer skills under the eLearning Jamaica Project, which will enable them to integrate information and communication technologies in their lesson plans.

The teachers, who have gained competences in operating a personal computer, word processing, spreadsheet elements, database management, power-point presentations, among other areas, were presented with their certificates at a graduation ceremony held recently at the Manchester High School.

Minister of Finance and the Public Service, and Member of Parliament for North East Manchester, Hon. Audley Shaw, who delivered the keynote address, stated that the computer is an important tool in the teaching and learning processes, and in building a more prosperous society.

He urged the teachers to "use this knowledge that you have embraced and impart it to the children, so that as young people, the light of understanding can be revealed to them".

Teacher at the Manchester-based Porus High School, Melissa Gordon, who benefited from the training, said that the teachers were grateful for the knowledge gained, and will use it for the advancement of the children under their care.

Chief Executive Officer of e-Learning Jamaica Project, Avril Crawford, in the meantime, informed that the initiative is succeeding in its mission to equip high schools with the necessary technology to enhance learning. She said the feedback so far is that the process is working.

"We are heartened that the project is already making a contribution. We have had feedback from several schools that the e-Learning Jamaica Project has been enhancing the education environment and that the use of the materials and equipment during lesson delivery has heightened students' interest in learning, and has also made lesson preparation much easier for teachers," Mrs. Crawford said.

A project of the Government of Jamaica, the eLearning Jamaica Project is an innovative educational initiative, which utilises ICT in the delivery of subjects.

It is targeted at high school students and employs both formal and informal methods of teaching. The objectives are to improve the quality of education, enhance the learning experience, and ensure high levels of passes in the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) tests.

Career advice maybe?

Well-known CVMTV videographer Byfield seems to be imparting some of his many years of experience to these students from Manchester High School.

Secondary schools food and nutrition quiz launched

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he 2010 National Secondary Schools' Food and Nutrition Quiz, which aims to enhance and promote food, nutrition and healthy lifestyle in schools and communities, was officially launched at the Ministry of Education's Caenwood Centre in Kingston on Tuesday, March 2.

The competition is the Jamaican leg of a Caribbeanwide contest, organised by the Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute (CFNI).

According to Competition Co-ordinator, David Hutton, the elimination rounds will be held in the Ministry of Education's six regions, with the finals at the Caenwood Centre, where a national team will be selected for participation in the Caribbean Schools' Food and Nutrition Quiz.

He noted that the competition is normally held in October, but a decision was made to hold it earlier this year to give the Jamaican team more time to prepare for the regional contest.

"We run our final competition in October and the Caribbean competition is held two weeks after we stage that final competition, while in other territories, they tend to run their competition in March, April. This year, with the kind assistance of the FAO (Food and

Agriculture Organisation), we are staging the competition earlier, because when we run the competition later in the year, our students just have two or three weeks to prepare for the Caribbean competition," he said.

Nutritionist from the CFNI, Audrey Morris, in the meantime, said that the regional quiz is one of the Institute's important nutrition communication strategies.

"It's not only a way of increasing nutrition knowledge of team members, but it highlights the whole field of nutrition," she said, adding that there is a spin-off effect of fostering interaction between the participating students of different countries.

Initiated in 1992, the competition involves collaboration with the Ministries of Education and Health, and the National Food and Nutrition Co-ordinating Committee of Jamaica (NFNCCJ).

The objective is to upgrade the nutrition knowledge and skills of students, as well as assist them with their preparation for local and regional examinations in food and nutrition. It also aims to improve the image of food and nutrition as a science.

In addition to the Food and Agriculture Organization, Harthill and Tastee Patties are also major sponsors of this year's competition.

MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS

March 8-14, 2010

19

Women still most affected

by HIV/AIDS

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he Bureau of Women's Affairs has lamented that women continue to be the group most affected by HIV/AIDS, whether directly or indirectly.

At a forum held on Monday March 8 at the Jamaica Conference Centre, downtown Kingston, the Bureau and the United Nations' Country Team in Jamaica brought together a wide cross-section of women to discuss the topic, 'The Status of Women: The Impact on Women's Health with Special Reference to HIV/AIDS'.

During the discussions, it was revealed that though there was a higher infection rate among men in most age groups in Jamaica, in the age cohort 10 to 29 years, the infection rate among women was higher than that of men.

Speaking at the Forum, Executive Director of the Bureau of Women's Affairs, Mrs. Faith Webster, stated that HIV/AIDS was a gender issue, which requires an acknowledgement that there are sexed-based differences in infection rates and an understanding of the underlying causes and consequences of the disease.

Pointing to data showing that infection rate among women in the 10 to 19 age group triples that of males in the same age cohort, Mrs. Webster said that biology, sexual behaviour, social attitudes and pressures and economic power, all contribute to the spread of the disease among women.

"Women are also less able to negotiate safe sex, due to economic dependence and fear of violence and, therefore, more likely to contract HIV infection from men. Men tend to have riskier behaviour than women. This is evidenced through multiple sex partners, sex with prostitutes, casual sex, unprotected high-risk sex, use of crack cocaine and other drugs [and] same-sex behaviour among men," she explained.

In addition, she said even where they do not contract the disease women and girls tend to bear the burden of caring for sick family members and, in stances where they get sick, they have no one to care for them.

Mrs. Webster noted that while a lot has been done to advance women's issues in Jamaica, a lot still need to be done, especially regarding the mainstreaming of gender issues into HIV/AIDS policies.

"This will promote the development of options to accommodate sex and gender differences. A gender analysis also will not only highlight cultural and economic differences, but also how rigid gender socialisation affects the responsibilities of women and men, as well as gaps in gender-related data and information," she added.

Tuesday's discussion forum was part of activities to mark International Women's Day, which was observed under the theme 'Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All,'

Min. Grange presents Adidas athletic equipment to schools The Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Honourable Olivia Grange, MP has formally presented athletic equipment donated by the German manufacturer Adidas to four Jamaican schools under a new initiative aimed at giving greater support to youth athletes.

Minister Grange said the initiative which will allow for the distribution of donated athletic goods to schools in a timely manner was one of the results from her trip to the Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008.

"When I was in Beijing, Adidas invited me to have discussions and one of the things I highlighted was that I wanted more support for sports in schools. They said, well look, we've been doing what we can, we're willing to do more, but there are some issues: when we send the goods, they sit for long; then they incur storage costs; the schools don't get the things on time; and it is very frustrating for the principals and the coaches.�

"So I said, I will receive the goods; I will see to their distribution; and I will ensure that the students, the athletes, are provided with these goods through the Ministry facilitating the process."

The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture co-ordinated the donations from Adidas, cleared the equipment and made deliveries to the schools.

The schools which received gears at this crremony were Vere Technical, Manchester

High, Camperdown High and the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport.

The principals agreed that the Ministry's new structured approach was a huge relief.

"You have taken the hassle out of us getting the gear", said the Principal of Vere Technical, Dr. Henrietta Stewart. She hoped that the same arrangements would continue in the future, so that schools will not have the problem of clearing the gear from the wharf and all relevant expenses and problems that go with that procedure. “And I am sure Adidas will be pleased too," she said.

The Principal of Camperdown High, Mrs. Cynthia Cooke expressed delight at the speed at which the goods were cleared and delivered.

"We feel very special here this afternoon Minister because it is not easy to get these goods cleared. That has been a sore point with us and I remember once, the storage fees exceeded the tax on the goods which we were required to pay. But we are most grateful at this time because when we heard that the goods were cleared, we were shocked. It took almost no time. And if this is what is going to happen in the future, then glory be."

Minister Grange gave the assurance that the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture would continue to give support to schools and national associations in the overall development of sports.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Olivia Grange, talks with Sheri-Ann Peckham, Deputy Head Girl of Manchester High School, Chantal Duncan of Vere Technical High School and Toni-Ann Moore of Camperdown High School about their preparation for Boys and Girls Championships.

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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS March 8-14, 2010

Central Champs launched

Suzanne Wilson-Wong, Consumer Marketing Manager at Nestle, addressing the launch of the 2010 Milo-sponsored Central Champs, at the Tropics View Hotel in Manchester

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he 4th staging of Milo Central Champs was launched on Thursday, March 4 at the Tropics View Hotel in Mandeville.

Meet organizer Jerry Holness announced that the meet will be held at GC Foster College March 11-12 beginning at 9:30 a.m. each day. In addressing the gathering of ath-

He also drew attention to the continuing domination of the central region in the girl's category at 'Champs' and that it will be no different at Champs 100 later this month. To support his point, Mr. Holness pointed to the fact that schools in the central region won Girls Champs a total of 37 times - more than any other region, with Vere Technical taking 23 titles - including 15 straight wins; Holmwood - seven consecutive victories, St. Jago High - four and Manchester High - 3 championships.

He also said that the central region has produced more national representatives the any other in the country. Significantly, this year all members of the team to the NACAC Cross Country Championship in Trinidad hailed from central Jamaica. Additionally, the technical leader (Jerry Holness) and about half of the team to the IAAF Indoor Championship to be held in Doha, Qatar, March 12-14, hails from the central region.

Holmwood and St. Jago are the defending champions in the girl's and boy's sections respectively of the Milo Central Champs. This year's championship is expected to see heated competition once more between the top five female teams nationally, namely Holmwood, Vere, Edwin Allen, Manchester High and St. Jago, which all hail from the region. Having won by a wide margin over second place Holmwood last year in the boys section, St. Jago is expected to again be runaway winners based on their current form.

The top five schools last year were: Girls - Holmwood, Vere Technical, Edwin Allen, Manchester High and Bellefield.

Boys - St. Jago, Holmwood, Claude McKay, Edwin Allen and Vere Technical.

Forty schools will contest the Central Championships this year with Ascot and Hydel being first time competitors. The two-day meet opens with the 400M Hurdles Open and ends with the 4x400M Relays.

Suzanne Wilson-Wong, Consumer Marketing Manager at Nestle, said that the company's sponsorship under the Milo brand includes a cash component to the organizers plus the provision of all the awards; promotional expenses and other costs such as gift baskets for all the winners.

Additionally, she confirmed that Milo will continue to sponsor the event over the long term as it represents the company's commitment to the 'powerhouse region of athletics in Jamaica'.

letes, coaches, officials and other interested persons who attended the launch, Mr. Holness spoke about the importance of the Milo Central Champs to the region and how it represents a good indication of how the girls' teams will perform at the National Championships.

Students from schools participating in the 2010 Milo Central Champs listening attentively at the press launch

Kemoy Campbell tops NACAC Cross Country 6K B

ellefield's Kemoy Campbell became the first Englishspeaking Caribbean athlete to win any category at the NACAC

Cross Country Championships when he won the 2010 6K Junior event in a time of 17:59.9 seconds.

He finished more than 20 seconds ahead of second placed Mohammed Ahmed of Canada.

Campbell's winning effort along with performances by other team members Andre Hosey, who finished 12th in the 6K (19:36), Rogeek Rochester, 13th (19:46) and Kevin White, 19th (20:13) allowed Jamaica to finish third in the male team ratings behind Canada and the United States.

Jamaica also finished third in the team ratings for the female 4K event led by Manchester High's Natoya Goule who finished 9th (14.38)along with Omaya Bailey, 10th (14.43); Shevel McDonald, 18th (15.45) and Jhevere Hall, 19th (15.48).