St. James Residents Honoured At Independence Day Civic Ceremony

Some 11 distinguished individuals were honoured with the 2024 Spirit of Independence and Mayor’s Special Awards, during the St. James Independence Day civic ceremony held at Sam Sharpe Square in Montego Bay on August 6.

The awards are presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of St. James since 1962. Their work spans various fields, including tourism, journalism, sports, education, healthcare, commerce, and community development.

Hyacinth Chambers, a longtime employee of Western Publishers Limited, makers of the Western Mirror newspaper, was among the awardees.

Mrs. Chambers who has 48 years of experience and was an ancillary worker, reflected on her journey at the company, while expressing her love for the job and the wonderful people she worked alongside.

“I just liked the job and met upon some very nice people while working there,” she stated.

Mrs. Chambers, who was known as the “resident counsellor” at the Mirror, always offered advice and encouraged unity among colleagues.

“To Jamacia, live good and live in peace and to the media, try to publish the right thing at all times and you will never go wrong,” she noted.

Another awardee, Alva Gordon, a 69-year-old electrical welder by trade, was recognized for his significant contribution to sports officiating in St. James.

Mr. Gordon’s expertise spans football and track and field, where he has served as a referee, timekeeper, and track umpire across various leagues and championships throughout Jamaica.

He expressed immense pride and joy upon receiving the recognition, noting that “I didn’t see this one coming”. He conveyed his appreciation for the award and encouraged the nation’s youth to contribute positively to society.

Janet Richards, founder and President of the Janet Richards Foundation, was honoured for her dedication to charitable work.

The foundation focuses on supporting physically challenged children and those who are underprivileged in St. James and Hanover. Mrs. Richards indicated that volunteerism has always been her lifelong passion.

“This (charity) has been a passion ever since I was a little girl, and right through high school. For me it’s not about money, it’s about helping others,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, praised the awardees for their transformative impact on various sectors.

He pointed out that their efforts inspire others to strive for positive change in Montego Bay and St. James.

“This theme must remind us that our culture has been a powerful driving force for economic development. Our culture is one of our most significant resources. We must safeguard it,” Mr. Vernon said.

The event celebrated Jamaica’s 62 years of Independence under the theme ‘Jamaica 62 One Love…To The World’.