“Generosity is doing something for someone without expecting anything in return”
Produced by: Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA)
Beersheba Primary School (Government Leased)
New Market P.O., Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica, West Indies
E-mail: beershebaoldstudentsassn@gmail.com
Officers: Glenis Daley, President
Vincent Samuels, ASC, BBA, Secretary/Treasurer, Newsletter Editor/Producer
Ann Hamilton, Assistant Secretary
OBJECTIVE
The objective of BOSA Newsletter is to inform and educate the people in Beersheba Primary School Community and all Beersheba Primary School Alumni in Jamaica and the Diaspora by means of clean and wholesome news. In doing so, the Newsletter will continue to highlight and celebrate their achievements, mourn their losses, defend their rights and articulate their needs. With meticulous calculated professional news reporting, the Newsletter will ceaselessly expose the entrenched culture of silence, secrecy, non-response and pussy-footing that has characterized the unscrupulous tyrannical oligarchy rule that is tarnished with nepotism that is designed to frustrate Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) as it continues to work assiduously as the safety net and mentor for voiceless and vulnerable students who reside in the impoverished peasant farming Beersheba Primary School Community from falling through the cracks cognizant of the fact, that had it not been for intervention of the Association, these students would be left alone to fend for themselves contrary to the vision of James “Dick” Richards, (1872-1965), Beersheba Primary School Alumnus, Soldier, Self-made Businessman, Philanthropist and Icon.
REFLECTION ON BEERSHEBA PRIMARY SCHOOL ALUMNI THAT HAVE PASSED ON
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) joins with family members, friends, and well-wishers of Ursella Kathleen Smith, age 95 years and other Beersheba Elementary/Primary School Alumni who are grieving and mourning the loss of their love ones who have passed away since and before Volume 55 October 2023 of our last newsletter was published. May the memories of these Beersheba Elementary/Primary School Alumni love continue to linger in our hearts and minds cognizant that Sunset in one land is Sunrise in another.
CONTINUED REFUSAL BY SCHOOL BOARD BEERSHEBA PRIMARY SCHOOL TO PAY BOSA AND VINCENT SAMUELS LEGITIMATE OUTSTANDING AMOUNTS OWED BY JAMES RICHARDS EDUCATIONAL TRUST FUND AS AUTHORIZED BY PERMANENT SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH AND INFORMATION
The subject matter which is mentioned on page 1, 2 and 3 in Volume 40 January 2020 of BOSA Newsletter remains unresolved because of the Board’s defiance to carry out legitimate directive given to it by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Youth and Information.
PROGRESS REPORT ON NASHANA DOBBS, DUVANNE BROWN, SAMEIKA MAITLAND, DEVONNETTE SMITH, TANASHAY JONES, BRIANNA DOBBS, AYANNA KELLY, TIANA SPENCE, KENUDEEN JONES, JAEDEN GAYLE, RYAN ROBINSON, STEPHEN STEWART AND GARETT FAIRCLOUG
NASHANA DOBBS
Attempts to obtain school report for Nashana for Christmas Term 2022 with respect to her attendance at Hampton School has been to no avail. This subject matter will no longer be revisited and mentioned in future newsletter.
DUVANNE BROWN
It is understood that Duvanne who has graduated from Saint Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) has been admitted to HEART/NSTA where he will be pursuing studies in technical subjects.
SAMEIKA MAITLAND
Sameika who is in her final years at University of Technology (UTECH) Kingston Campus, will graduate in 2024 with the Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Health. Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wish Sameika all the best as she begins her internship and graduation.
DEVONNETTE SMITH
Devonnette who is an avid reader from Beersheba, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, granddaughter of the late Victor Smith, 1st Vice President Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA), is a model student who always acknowledge and express her gratitude for newspaper articles of topical interest that BOSA WhatsApp to her periodically. Devonnette will move on to grade 10 at Saint Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) in 2023/2024 school year, Devonnette is expected to continue her academic excellence in the new school year. School Report for Christmas Term 2022 has not been received.
TANASHAY JONES
Tanashay from Flint Valley District, New Market, Saint Elizabeth who is first cousin of Shanisa Jones, BA (UTECH), will move on to Form 5 at Hampton School in 2023/2024 school year. Tanashay is expected to continue her academic excellence of 86% which is reflected in her school report for Christmas Term 2021. School Report for Christmas Term 2022 has not been received.
BRIANNA DOBBS
Brianna who is from Long Ground, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, is a grade 7 student at Saint Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS). Attempts to obtain Brianna’s school report for Christmas Term 2021 has been to no avail. Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wish Briana all the best as she moves on to grade 9 in 2023/2024 school year which began on September 4, 2023. School report for Christmas Term 2022 has not been received.
AYANNA KELLY
Ayanna who is from Long Ground, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, was affected by ill health during 2021/2022 school year as a student at Saint Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) where she ended Christmas Term 2021 with 66.9% average. Ayanna reported to Bosa that she is an Honor Roll student for the Christmas term ending 2023. Congrats Ayanna and keep up the good work.
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wish Ayanna best of health and improved academic performance as she moves on to grade 9 in 2023/2024 school year. School Report for Christmas Term 2023 has not been received.
TIANA SPENCE
Tiana, a native of Ruinit District, New Market, Saint Elizabeth who is a student at Lacovia High School earned 44.1% average in her school report for Christmas Term 2021. Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wish Tiana all the best and hope she will settle down and perform better in her school work as she moves on to grade 9 in 2023/2024 school year. School Report for Christmas Term 2022 has not been received.
KENUDEEN JONES
Kenudeen , native of Carr District, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, first cousin to Shanisa Jones, BA (UTECH), with her roots through the lineage of her father Kenneth Jones son of the late Beresford Jones (Guptie) from Flint Valley, New Market, Saint Elizabeth; has performed satisfactorily as a grade 7 student at Bishop Gibson High School For Girls, Mandeville, Manchester; despite her mother Judeen being smitten by a severe stroke.
Kenudeen’s school report for Christmas Term 2021 has revealed that she was awarded 68.5% class average. Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wish Kenudeen’s mother improved health and also wish for Kenudeen continued satisfactory academic performance as she moves on to grade 9 in 2023/2024 school year. Kenudeen’s School Report for Christmas Term 2022 has disclosed her grade as 77.5. She earned her place in the coveted top 10 spot out of 40 students in her class.
Although Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) is insolvent, Vincent Samuels, Secretary/Treasurer of the Association, used his own money as a Pensioner, to purchase text books amounting to J$25,000.00 so as to enable Kenudeen to continue to maintain academic excellence at Bishop Gibson High School For Girls.
JAEDEN GAYLE
Jaeden, a native of Long Ground, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, will move on to Form 3 in 2023/2024 school year at Munro College where he is expected to maintain a grade of 89. Jaeden whose desire is to become a Neurosurgeon, is doing well academically.
RYAN ROBINSON
Ryan will move on to Form 3 student at Munro College in 2023/2024 school year. Ryan who is striving to do well academically, is expected to maintain good academic performance. Ryan has won two awards for outstanding performance at school during Christmas Term 2023.
STEPHEN STEWART
Stephen a native of Carr District with biological roots in Flint Valley, New Market, Saint Elizabeth; will move on to Form 3 at Munro College. Although efforts to contact Stephen’s mother to ascertain how he is doing academically has been to no avail; BOSA wish Stephen all the best for 2023/2024 school year.
GARETT FAIRCLOUGH
Garett, a native of Flint Valley, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, will move on to Form 3 at Maggotty High School where he maintains a grade of 81. Garett is striving to do well academically. BOSA wish Garett all the best for 2023/2024 school year.
2021 BENEFICIARIES FROM JAMES RICHARDS EDUCATIONAL TRUST FUND
As one of the Stakeholders with whose acquiescence the balance of USD 79,841.49 (JMD 6,856,029.84) was transferred by HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited, former Trustee James Richards Educational Trust Fund in November 2011 to The Bank Of Nova Scotia Jamaica Limited Chequeing Account No. 3002-82 with the names of Tatlin E Smith-Williams, former Principal Beersheba Primary School and the late Victor Smith, 1st Vice President Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) as legitimate signatories to withdraw funds
from the account; Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) is still awaiting response from the administration at Beersheba Primary School regarding information requested from the school to the following questions:
- Names of the two students in the graduating class of 2021 who are successful in 2021 Primary Exit Profile (PEP) Examination and will be selected as qualified beneficiaries of James Richards Educational Trust Fund in keeping with the criteria and desire stipulated by the Trustor.
- The agreed mechanism that will be used in selecting the two students.
- The quantum of financial benefit that will be allotted to each student and the purpose for which the funds will be utilized.
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wish to place on record, the Association’s concern that notwithstanding the fact that financial records pertaining to James Richards Educational Trust Fund were handed over to Misses Latoya Davis and Maisie Hamilton, Internal Auditors from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information by Tatlin E Smith-Williams, former Principal Beersheba Primary School in the presence of Vincent Samuels, Secretary/Treasurer Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) at a meeting that was held in the conference room at the Ministry of Education, Region 5, Mandeville, Manchester on May 5, 2016, the Association has not received a copy of the audited financial statement pertaining to the outcome of the audit that was done.
In the pursuance of probity, transparency and accountability, Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) is not going to discontinue its inquiry into these high-profile matters until responses requested have been received.
BOSA INVALUABLE, BEERSHEBA PRIMARY SCHOOL ALUMNI, HONORARY MEMBERS, FRIENDS, AND WELL-WISHERS WHO CONTINUE TO GIVE IN THE INTEREST AND WELFARE OF OUR STUDENTS
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wishes to place on record and express its sincere gratitude and appreciation to those Beersheba Primary School Alumni – including Winston and Sheila Hamilton, Roy
Holness, Kenneth Smith, Dr. Trevor Hamilton, Dorette Lind,` Winston Hamilton, Neville “Butty” Cooke, Professor Patrick Brown, Merlene Holness-Pryce, Howard Hamilton, Josephine Wade,
Roderick Colquhoun, Patrick Williams et al for their invaluable financial support that they continue to give to the Association.
NEED FOR PRIMARY EXIT PROFILE (PEP) STUDENTS GRADUATING BEERSHEBA PRIMARY SCHOOL IN THE CLASS OF 2019 AND BEYOND TO BE COMPUTER LITERATE
It is with great joy and long-awaited accomplishment that Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) announces that Broadband Internet Wi-Fi Service is now available at Beersheba Primary School.
The Association wishes to commend the Administration at the school for its tenacity and innovation in bringing Broadband Internet Wi-Fi Service to the school. The Association hopes that now that Information Technology (IT) is now available at Beersheba Primary School, that the Administration will take appropriate action to ensure that all students that are enrolled at the school will be exposed and trained to use the technology so that no student will graduate from the school as a computer illiterate.
Beersheba Primary School Alumni who would like to contact their alma mater can do so by email to: beersheba.primary.sch@moey.gov.jm
BI-MONTHLY MEETINGS OF BOSA
Now that restrictions under Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA) has been lifted by the government of Jamaica, in addition to virtual online meetings; BOSA will take appropriate action to ensure that face to face contact of its members at bi-monthly meetings of the Association is restored.
FUND RAISING ACTIVITIES IN CONNECTION WITH BOSA SUPPORT FUND FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Beersheba Primary School Alumni, Friends and Well-wishers are asked to revisit information given on page 3 of 10 and 4 of 10 under this heading in Volume 46 July 2021 of BOSA Newsletter to obtain additional information with respect to how you can assist to financially support students attending high schools. All financial contributions from donors will be promptly acknowledged in writing.
MEET THE ACHIEVERS AND TRAILBLAZERS
In keeping with its desire and admiration to see individuals excel in academia and careers in which they are involved, Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) with its belief and commitment to zero tolerance for mediocrity, wish to focus its attention and present to its all Beersheba Elementary/Primary School Alumni in Jamaica and the Diaspora, its other valued readers and well-wishers of its quarterly newsletter; Elsie Foster, Jamaican/American Mayor of Highland Park, New Jersey, USA since January 24, 2023. Miss Foster stand out as an Achiever and Trailblazer.
As Mayor of Highland Park, New Jersey, Miss Foster currently serves as Council Chair for the Department of Public Safety, including the Fire Department, First Aid Squad, Police Department, Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Community Response Team (CERT).
Prior to her election as Mayor on January 24, 2023, Miss Foster was Council Liaison to Recreation and Arts, Finance, Department of Public Utilities, Economic Development and Planning, Health and Welfare. Miss Foster also served as Borough Council President for eight years and Acting Mayor for several months. Miss Foster’s Borough Council leadership involved overseeing the administration of the Borough and positions in the Board of Education, Office of Public Information, Personnel, Communications and many more. These leadership roles have given Miss Foster a complete sense of government operations and enabled her to utilize her leadership skills in nearly every aspect of the Borough Council.
LEADERSHIP ROLES AT STATE, FEDERAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVELS
While the Borough of Highland Park is Miss Foster’s primary focus, she has served extensively in leadership roles in State, Federal and International Capacities including the following:
- President of the Jamaican Organization of New Jersey (2009-2010)
- President and Founder of the United Caribbean America Network of New Jersey (2002-2005)
- Executive board Member of Caribbean America Elected Leaders.
- Member of Governor Corzine Blue ribbon Advisory Panel on Immigration Policy (2007-2009)
- Legislative Liaison for the Department of Personnel for the State of New Jersey (2008-2009)
SOME OF ELSIE FOSTER MOST NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE BOROUGH OF HIGHLAND PARK, NEW JERSEY, USA
- Strengthen municipal services with effective communications internally and with the public through technology and communications services.
- Reviewed and intensified fiscal needs and policies and developed analyzed spending patterns for efficiency including labor sourcing and shard services opportunities.
- Implemented Redevelopment Agency and periodically review.
- Broke ground for Environmental Education Center.
- Assured building safety and implemented accessibility and compliance with ADA laws.
- Strengthened Police Activities League and Neighborhood Associations.
- President and CEO of Aunt Elsie’s Homestays, an International Student Housing Organization
- Legislative Liaison to the State of new Jersey Civil Service Commission and a founding partner of JamPhil Consultants, LLC.
Miss Foster’s Community Service Work includes numerous speaking engagements and meditation such as:
- Facilitated the creation and launch of the Jamaican Trade Council of New Jersey (2005)
- Brokered relationship with New Jersey State Deparrment of Commerce to grant operating license to Jamaica National Building Society, the largest privately owned Building Society in the Caribbean into the State of New Jersey (2004)
- Worked with the Office of the Governor of the State of New Jersey to initiate disaster relief programs and assistance to hurricane victims in the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti and Jamaica (2004)
- Delivered keynote addresses at the Mona School of Business, University of the West Indies, Jamaica (2003), the Caribbean Heritage Month at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey, and the Caribbean Heritage Month at Yokota Air Force Base, Fussa, Japan.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- MBA in Global Management.
- Bachelor Science in Business Administration and Human Resource Management.
- Attended Women’s Campaign School, Yale University, New Haven Connecticut and Essex College of Business, Newark, New Jersey.
Editor’s Note: If Beersheba Primary School Alumni in Jamaica and the Diaspora would like to see themselves being featured under this heading, Alumni who not yet responded to appeals made in BOSA Newsletters to send the Editor/Producer their curriculum vitae, academic, and communal profile as an attachment to the Association’s e-mail address: beershebaoldstudentsassn.@gmail.com as soon as possible so that they can be published in Volume 39 as well as future Volumes of the Newsletter.
RESOLUTION TO RENAME BEERSHEBA PRIMARY SCHOOL JAMES RICHARDS PRIMARY SCHOOL
Beersheba Primary School Alumni, Friends and Well-wishers are asked to revisit information given on page 4 and 5 of 10 under this heading in Volume 46 July 2021 of BOSA Newsletter to obtain additional information.
Editor’s Note: It is mind boggling and perplexing to think of the ease with which John Rollins Success Primary School, Saint James was named after Philanthropist John Rollins, that despite acquiescence and support and all written criteria stipulated by the Ministry of Education being fully met and satisfied by Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA), other Stakeholders in Beersheba Primary School Community and Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation; that Beersheba Primary School should be renamed James Richards Beersheba Primary School; because of the entrenched culture of silence, secrecy, non response and pussyfooting that continue characterize the School Board at Beersheba Primary School and the Ministry of Education; this important subject matter remains unresolved.
What more can the School Board at Beersheba Primary School and the Ministry of Education require so as to enable the Ministry to submit the proposal along with supporting documents to Cabinet of the Government of Jamaica to give its approval to rename Beersheba Primary School James Richards Beersheba Primary School for which James “Dick” Richards (1872 – 1965), Soldier, Self-made Businessman, Philanthropist and Icon has done the following and more that is not listed in this newsletter:
- Bequeathed money in his Last Will And Testament to provide scholarships for students from Beersheba Primary School whom the Ministry of Education has awarded places in high schools. The balance of US$79,941.49 (J$6,856,029.84) which HSBC Bermuda Bank Limited was by Deed Of Appointment And Termination James Richards Educational Trust Fund dated October 24, 2011 that made Beersheba Primary School the New Trustee of money bequeathed by the Trustor; the amount was wire transferred by HSBC Bermuda Bank Limited into Chequeing Account Number 3002-82 in the name of James Richards Educational Trust Fund at The Bank of Nova Scotia Jamaica Limited, Black River Branch on November 3, 2011.
- Used his own money to purchase the land on which Beersheba Primary School was built.
- Used his own money to transport skilled workmen from Bermuda to build a large rain water tank at “Dell Cottage”– one of the largest rain water tank that was ever built in Beersheba Primary School Community – where residents from Flint Valley, Long Ground, Happy Hall, Beersheba and carr Districts could get water to use in their households free of cost.
- Used his own money to purchase land and erect a wooden structure with galvanized zinc sheets that housed The Salvation Army Carr Corp which was the sole place of worship in Beersheba Primary School Community for decades.
- Used his own money to purchase several hymnals which he donated to Carmel Moravian Church so as to enable congregants attending church services to use one hymnal each instead of the undesirable practice that was in place when he attended service at the church and observed two congregants holding unto and using the same hymnal.
STORY BOARD TO BE CREATED ON THE EAMBANKMENT OF THE INTERSECTION OF BEERSHEBA/FLINT VALLEY PAROCHIAL ROAD AND BYE PASS ROAD THROUGH CARR DISTRICT IN MEMORY OF JAMES “DICK” RICHARDS (1872-1965) WHO WAS BORN IN CARR DISTRICT, NEW MARKET, SAINT ELIZABETH
Beersheba Primary School Alumni, Friends and Well-wishers are asked to revisit information given on page 5 of 10 under this heading in Volume 46 July 2021 of BOSA Newsletter to obtain additional information.
BOSA is pleased to inform all Beersheba Primary School Alumni in Jamaica and the Diaspora and our other invaluable readers and well-wishers, that Home Time Entertainment Limited Black River, Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica, with its innovation and tenacity to provide Broad Band Internet and Wi-Fi Service to residents at Carr, Happy Hall, Beersheba/Flint Valley, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica West Indies; has indicated the Company’s interest to pursue the erection of a Story Board which has been outstanding on the agenda of Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation since James “Dick” Richards (1872-1965), was honoured posthumously at a function that was held at Luana Club, Black River, Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica.
James “Dick” Richards, Soldier, Self-made Businessman, Real Estate Owner Bermuda, Philanthropist and Icon certainly deserves the honour of a Story Board that will be erected on the embankment at the intersection of Beersheba/Flint Valley Parochial Road and Bye Pass Road leading to Carr District his place of birth.
Editor’s Note: By way of correction, valued readers of BOSA quarterly newsletter are asked to note that Home Time Entertainment Limited has given its commitment to erect a Welcome Sign in memory of James “Dick” Richards. In the interim, the Story Board is still outstanding and unresolved with Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation, Black River. Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) has approached Mrs. Georgia Rookwood, from the Research Department at Jamaica National Heritage Trust to see if this entity could liaise with Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation to provide and erect the Story Board in memory of James “Dick” Richards whom the Corporation honoured posthumously for philanthropic contribution that he has made to the impoverished peasant farming Beersheba Primary School Community, the Parish of Saint Elizabeth and Bermuda. BOSA valued readers are reminded that it us n recognition of the invaluable philanthropic contribution that James “Dick” Richards has made to Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica West Indies that the Municipal Corporation in Hamilton, Bermuda held an official ceremony in which the City of Hamilton, Bermuda and the Town of Black River were officially Twinned. The official Twinning Ceremony was attended by a delegation that was led by former Mayor of Black River and Chairman Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation Councillor Everton Fisherand then Minority Leader of the Corporation Councillor Jeremy Palmer.
THE ELESA HAMILTON SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
Beersheba Primary School Alumni, Friends and Well-wishers are asked to revisit page 6 of 10 under this heading in Volume 46 July 2021 of BOSA Newsletter to obtain additional information.
BOSA SCIENCE AND HEALTH CORNER
In times of grief, pain, separation, failure or disappointment, people often tell us “Time heals all wounds.” While it may offer a glimmer of solace, the deeper truth is, time is an external entity, it cannot directly mend our internal emotional wounds.
Healing comes from within through a process of self-reflection, understanding, and acceptance. Time as an external force, is oblivious to our inner struggles. It cannot magically erase our pain or heal our emotional scars. The notion that time alone can heal our wounds is a passive perspective that places responsibility for our emotional wellbeing outside of ourselves.
ACCEPTANCE
The reality is that healing s an active and introspective process. It is a journey of self-care and personal responsibility. Why we feel healed is that as time passes, we have the opportunity to gain knowledge, reflect on our experiences, and develop a deeper understanding of life’s complexities.
This process of self-awareness and growth allows us to become emotionally independent and stronger. We learn to navigate the depths of our feelings, understand their origins, and uncover healthy coping mechanisms. Through introspection, we gain insight into theroot causes of our pain and disappointment, helping us make peace with our past and shape a better future on the ground of creating a compassionate present towards the self.
Critically, healing involves ‘acceptance’. It is not about forgetting or easing the past, but acknowledging it and learning from it. Acceptance is a powerful step towards inner peace. It allows us to make peace with our pain and move forward with new-found wisdom. Instead of relying on the abstract notion of time to heal us, we can actively participate in our healing journey which will empower us to take charge of our emotional health and resilience.
One effective strategy for healing is to create affirmations that reinforce the fact that we possess the capacity to heal and grow. By adopting this perspective, we become resilient individuals capable of facing uncomfortable emotions head-on. We shift from a passive mindset to an active one. Rather than waiting for time to pass, we actively address our emotional wounds, seeking the tools of knowledge and self-compassion to heal immediately. This proactive approach transforms us into architects of our emotional destiny, creating beautiful and harmonious relationships.
Let us realize that, while time may be an ever-flowing river, it is our inner strength, understanding, and acceptance that truly heal our wounds. It is time to embrace the power of personal responsibility and the magic of acceptance in our healing journey. Let us affirm our ability to heal ourselves, thereby creating a peaceful NOW.
Editor’s Note: The foregoing article is written by Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kinston and was published in Jamaica Gleaner on Sunday, September 17, 2023.
GOLDEN THOUGHTS AND NUGGETS
“Not all storms come to disrupt your life. Some of them come to clear your path.”
Anonymous
“When you focus on being a blessing to others including the poor and needy, God makes sure that you are always blessed abundantly.”
Anonymous
“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic. It takes sweat, determination and hard work.”
Collin Powell
“We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort.”
Jessie Owens
GOOD TRAVEL NEWS FOR JAMAICANS RESIDING IN HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT, USA
Effective December 2022, Jamaicans and other travelers residing in Hartford, Connecticut (The Nutmeg State), USA, will no longer have to travel to John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York to board airline flights to travel to Sangster’s International Airport (MBJ), Montego Bay, Jamaica.
As a result of intensive consistent lobbying by several organizations in the Diaspora, Jamaicans and other travelers who reside in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, are now able to book airfares to travel nonstop on Spirit Airlines from Bradley International Airport, Hartford, Connecticut, USA to Sangster’s International Airport, Montego Bay, Jamaica on any of the four (4) weekly flights that are currently offered by the Airline.
PASSPORT IMMIGRATION & CITIZENSHIP AGENCY (PICA) ANNOUNCES NEWTRAVEL REQUIREMENT TO JAMAICA EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2023
All travelers returning to Jamaica are required to complete the Immigration and Customs Form C5 online effective September 1, 2023.
According to Kauna McKenzie, Director for Business & Communication at Passport Immigration & Citizenship agency (PICA), implementation of online submission of Immigration Customs Form C5, will help to reduce wait time at Norman Manley and Sangster International Airports.
Travelers returning to Jamaica can complete and submit Immigration Customs Form C5 up to thirty (30) days before they arrive at airports in Jamaica.
DISCOVERY OF SLAVE BURIAL GROUND AT PAYNES TOWN, NEW MARKET, SAINT ELIZABETH, JAMAICA WEST INDIES
Beersheba Primary School Alumni, Friends and Well-wishers and our other readers who are interested in this subject matter, are asked to revisit page 7 and 8 of 10 in Volume 46 July 2021 under this heading in BOSA Newsletter to obtain additional information.
.Editor’s Note: The foregoing subject matter was thoroughly discussed in a meeting that was held in the office of the Chief Executive Officer, Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation on January 15, 2018. The meeting which was provided over by His Worship the Mayor of Black River and Chairman Saint Elizabeth Municipal
Corporation Councillor Derrick Sangster, was attended by Mr. Errol Lebert, Chief Executive Officer, Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation, representatives of Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA),
New Market CDC, and Mrs. Elvie Miller and her daughter Madge Mullings; Owner of the property on which the Slave Burial Ground is located; acquiesced and decided that the Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation will pursue the matter with the History and Archaeology Department of the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Kingston, Jamaica West Indies so as to get the Department and Jamaica National Heritage Trust Foundation to honour the commitment that was given to the association that they would visit, take over, secure and preserve the site.
BEERSHEBA PRIMARY SCHOOL COMMUNITY GET BROAD BAND INTERNET WI-FI SERVICE Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) is pleased to announce that through the vision and innovation of Home Time Entertainment Limited, the districts of Carr, Beersheba, Long Ground, Happy Hall and Flint Valley that make up Beersheba Primary School Community, have been provided with Broadband Internet Wi-Fi Service.
For additional information on this subject matter, all Beersheba Elementary/Primary School Alumni, our Well-wishers and our other Valued Readers of our quarterly newsletter are invited to read and peruse the recent email message that was sent to you all.
BOSA DEVOTIONAL
USING PERSONAL TRAGEDY TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS
There never has been a Poet who put pen to paper with more skill than Henry Wadsworth Longfellow who became a legend in his own lifetime and he was known in many circles as “The Children’s Poet.” Some schools are named in his memory.
Howbeit, tragedy struck in Longfellow’s home on July 9, 1861. His wife Fanny, was near an open window combing using hot sealing wax in the process. It was never known whether a spark from a match or the sealing wax was the cause, but suddenly Fanny’s dress caught fire and she was engulfed in flames.
Longfellow who was asleep in the adjoining room, was awakened by his wife’s screams and he dashed to rescue her. He was severely burnt on his face and hands as he tried desperately to extinguish the flames to save his wife. His wife Fanny died in the fire and burns sustained by Longfellow were so severe that he could not attend her funeral.
Longfellow seemed to repress his anguish within his soul. His family could see his suffering in his eyes and they observed his long periods of silence. The burn scars on Longfellow’s face made shaving almost impossible which explains the white beard he wore.
Although a literary giant, Longfellow still needed the peace that only God can give to His suffering children. On Christmas Day in 1863, Longfellow, widower of his six children, sat down and desperately tried to reflect on the joy of the season. He was never considered a hymnwriter; however, the poem he wrote on that Christmas Day was later set to music by Englishman John Calkin. The result is that I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day became one of the world’s most popular Christmas Carols:
I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play.
And mild and sweet their songs repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head
There is no peace on earth I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
Then rang the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead nor doth He sleep
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.
Then singing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
Editor’s Note: Compiled from extensive secondary research done by the Editor.
DENGUE FEVER OUTBREAK IN JAMAICA HAS PASSED THE 1,000 MARK
The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Jamaica, West Indies, has announced that Dengue Fever Outbreak in Jamaica has passed the 1,000 mark and that as of Thursday, December 30, 2023, the country has recorded 1,301 infections with the highest number of cases being observed in the 5-14 year old at a rate of 623.1 cases per 100,000 population.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness has asked the public to heed the following advice that is given by the Ministry:
- Dengue fever is a mosquito borne disease that is usually a mild illness in which an individual may get a fever, headache, joint and muscle pain.
- Rest and adequate hydration are usually enough to enable the affected person to cope through the period of illness.
- Members of the public are asked not to use aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, or any of the medications/pain relievers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs when used to treat the fever in dengue, have been known to increase the severity of the disease.
- There has been occasions that the illness can progress to severe dengue, which can result in organ failure as well as bleeding (haemorrhage), and severe fluid depletion that can lead to shock and death.
- Persons experiencing fever, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, bleeding under the skin (petechial rash), feeling very weak, or getting confused are to seek immediate medical attention.
- Members of the public are asked to play their part by ensuring that dengue cases are minimized by monitoring water storage containers for mosquito breeding ; keeping surroundings free of debris, destroying or treating potential breeding sites; wearing protective clothing and using DEET-containing mosquito repellant.
HIV/AIDS ON THE RISE IN WESTERN JAMAICA
The Ministry of Health and Wellness has expressed concern regarding the rise in the number of HIV/AIDS in Parishes in Western Jamaica. Data has revealed that out of a population of 2.7 million people residing in Jamaica, 32,000 individuals are living with HIV/AIDS. Data has also revealed that HIV/AIDS is trending upwards in the Parishes of Westmoreland, Hanover, Saint James and Trelawny.
WHAT IS HIV/AIDS?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of the disease.
HIV targets the body’s white blood cells, weakening the immune system and makes it easier for an individual to get sick with diseases like tuberculosis, infection and some cancers.
HIV is spread from the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal fluids. It s not spread by kisses, hugs or sharing foods. It can also be spread from a mother to her baby.
HIV can be treated and prevented with antiretroviral therapy (ART). Untreated HIV can progress to AIDS, often after many years.
There is no cure for for HIV/AIDS but medications can control the infection and prevent progression of the disease. Antiviral treatments for HIV have reduced AIDS deaths around the world and the Ministry of Health and Wellness is working with International Organizations such as World Health Organization (WHO) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to increase the availability of prevention measures and treatment in Third World Countries that have limited resources to cope with the disease.
SYMPTOMS OF HIV/AIDS
The symptoms of HIV/AIDS vary depending on the phase of the infection.
Primary Infection (Acute HIV)
Some people who are infected by HIV, develop a flu-like illness within 2-4 weeks after the virus enters the body. The illness, known as Primary (Acute) HIV infection, may last for a few weeks. Possible signs and symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches and joint pain
- Rash
- Sore Throat and painful mouth sores
- Swollen lymph gland, mainly on the neck
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Cough
- Night Sweats
These symptoms can be so mild that an affected person might not even notice them. However, the amount of virus in the bloodstream (viral load) of the infected person is quite high at this time. As a result, the infection spreads more easily during primary infection than during the next stage.
Clinical Latent Infection (Chronic HIV)
In this stage of infection, HIV is still present in the body and in white blood cells. However, many people may not have any symptoms during this time.
This stage can last for many years if the affected person is receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Some people develop more severe disease much sooner.
DGITAL BANKING IS HERE TO STAY
Announcement made by The Bank of Nova Scotia Jamaica Limited to close its flagship branch at 6 High Street, Black River, Saint Elizabeth and its Christiana Branch in Manchester in February 2021, in addition to converting six (6) of its other Branches to Digital Non Personal Banking, is proof that Scotia Bank in re-engineering its operation to reduce and eliminate fixed costs (rent, salaries, health insurance benefits and utility bills); has joined other financial conglomerates in making transition from inhouse to online digital banking that ultimately is going to result in a cashless society that has advantages and disadvantages.
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) is urging elderly customers of Banks to come to full realization that their “banger phones” have become obsolete and must be immediately replaced with a Smart Phone with at least 16 GB Internal Memory that is capable to download and install Mobile Banking Apps that will enable them to do their banking transactions from their homes. Young people including those in academia who are computer literate, are urged to help the elderly who must not be scammed or abused in the process.
CHANGING CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR AND BUSINESS DECISION TAKEN BY JAMAICA PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED (JPSCO) TO CLOSE SEVEN OF IT’S OFFICES
In a news article captioned: JPS addresses concerns about impending closure of branches that appeared in Jamaica Gleaner on Thursday, February 4, 2021, Senior Vice Resident Customer Service at JPS, Ramsay McDonald, is quoted as saying “While we fully appreciate the concerns of the residents, our decision to close the office – speaking in reference to the closure of the Portmore Office which is among seven (7) offices that will be closed effective March 8, 2021 – was made after careful consideration and observation of the changing behaviour of our customers. Over the past four years, customers have increased their use of online platforms to do regular transactions.”
Since less face-to-face transactions with JPSCO is going to be the norm going forward, consumers are urged to utilize several options that are available to them. One option is downloading and installing JPS App from Google or Apple Play Store on Smart Phones as well as logging on to myjps.myjps.net through which electricity bills can be paid.
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION HAS ANNOUNCED THE ADDITION OF CIVICS TO TEACHING CURRICULUM IN SCHOOLS IN JAMAICA
Hon. Fayval Williams, Minister of Education and Youth, has announced that with effect from Easter Term which began on January 9, 2023, Civics is added to school curriculum and will be taught in all schools in Jamaica.
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) welcome the policy decision made by the Ministry of Education and Youth. The Association is of the view that teaching of civics in schools throughout Jamaica can rekindle the spirit of Patriotism and National Pride that has been on declension ever since the subject was discontinued school curriculum in Jamaica.
ABRUPT ENDING OF BEERSHEBA/FLINT VALLEY PAROCHIAL ROAD, FLINT VALLEY, NEW MARKET, SAINT ELIZABETH
By memorandum dated November 16, 2023 addressed to The Honourable William James Charles Hutchinson, CD., MP., Member of Parliament N W Saint Elizabeth, State Minister in the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) has sent this memorandum as an email attachment to Honourable Minister Hutchinson, bringing to his attention the abrupt ending of Beersheba/Flint Valley Poarochial Road at the cul-de-sac at Noel Walker, deceased, property at Flint Valley, New Market, Saint Elizabeth, contrary to the vision and expressed intention of the late Hon. Neville C Lewis, former Member of Parliament NW Saint Elizabeth had for this important arterial road that would pass through arable prime agricultural lands on its way to Tatewood where the road would intersect with the Parochial Road in that area.
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) has asked Honourable Minister Hutchinson to take appropriate action to have Beersheba/Fint Valley Parochial Road placed on the Government of Jamaica Capital Works Programme so that the vision and expressed intention of the late Hon. Neville C Lewis can be realized to benefit peasant farmers who currently transport their farm products as head loads from their farms to the cul-de-sac at Flint Valley where they obtain vehicular transport to take their farm products to the market at Lewisville which is one of busiest markets in the island of Jamaica.
Copies of the memorandum that was sent to Honourable Minister Hutchinson at the Office of Prime Minister of Jamaica was also sent to his Constituency Office at Lacovia as well as an email attachment to the following:
CEO/Executive Secretary of RADA
Hope Gardens, Kingston 6
Mr. Lenworth Fulton
President Jamaica Agricultural Society
67 Church Street
Kingston CSO
Councillor Richard Solomon
Member Saint Elizabet Municipal Corporation
New Market Parochial Division
The Honourable Floyd Green
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining
Mr. Errol Lebert
CEO Saint Elizabeth Municipal Corporation
58 High Street, Black River
Mrs. Jacqueline Brown
President New Market Community Development Committee (NMCDC)
Mrs. Carmen “Mitsy” Jones-Robinson, Vice President
New Market Community Development Committee (NMCDC)
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR GREETING FROM BEERSHEBA OLD STUDENTS ASSOCIATION (BOSA)
Beersheba Old Students Association (BOSA) wish all Beersheba Elementary/Primary School Alumni in Jamaica and the Diaspora, our other valued readers and well-wishers of our quarterly newsletter, a very peaceful and spirit-filled Christmas 2023 and a Happy, Prosperous and Productive New Year 2024.
“A heart that is focused on others will not be consumed with self”
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