Monday’s (Oct. 21) National Honours and Awards Ceremony will be the first time in many years that Dave St. Patrick Reid will not be behind the lens capturing moments at the investiture ceremony. Instead, the respected Senior Photographer at the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), will be the one in focus, becoming part of the story. He will be among the...

In 1969, just seven years after Jamaica gained political independence from Britain, the Government established a National Honours and Awards System to pay tribute to citizens who have profoundly impacted the nation. The National Honours and Awards Act, promulgated on July 18, 1969, facilitated the creation of six categories of awards. Each accolade represents a thread in the rich tapestry...

At age 16, when he joined the 4-H movement, Jeremy Palmer never thought that his life journey would have seen him contributing to his parish and country in various capacities, which has earned him national recognition. On National Heroes Day, Monday (Oct. 21), the lawyer, teacher, former politician and mayor will be conferred with the Order of Distinction in the...

On National Heroes Day, Monday (Oct. 21), Dr. Merlin Roselee Barriffe will be presented with the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service for 40 years of contribution to public education in Jamaica. It is just reward for a lifetime of commitment and work in the education sector, which has been marked by dedicated and significant contribution as a classroom teacher,...

Managing Director of Designs by Marc Limited, Marcia Nicely McCalla, will be conferred with the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer (OD) this year, for over 30 years contribution to Jamaica’s manufacturing sector. She is among the 150 Jamaicans being recognised with honours and awards by the Government for outstanding service in various fields. Designs by Marc is...

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has announced plans for two major road projects to address traffic congestion in St. Ann. The Prime Minister, who was delivering the keynote address at the opening of a new Courts store at the Drax Hall Complex in the parish on October 10, said the congestion on the roadway between Ocho Rios...

Commissioner of Customs, Velma Ricketts Walker, was overcome with gratitude, humility, a sense of pride and accomplishment upon learning of her selection for this year’s conferral of the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) for outstanding contribution to the public service by the Government of Jamaica. She and hundreds of other Jamaicans will be bestowed with their awards by Governor-General, His...

Looking back, Dorrett Correne Thaxter believes that her life was destinated to unfold the way it did. From a child performing at festival to unearthing and nurturing creative talent as a teacher and later Director of Arts Development and Training at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), her journey has been characterised by a passion for the performing arts. On...

Ainsworth Higgins, better known as “Big A”, has been a fixture on Jamaica's airwaves for close to three and half decades, serving as a veteran broadcaster at Irie FM in Ocho Rios, St. Ann. For his lifelong commitment to the Jamaican music scene, the renowned radio personality has been awarded the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service. He...