QUARTERLY

REVIEW

Vol. 1 No. 2 ● News ● Reviews ● Features ● Highlights

WHAT’S INSIDE?

News Diary Entry The Judicial Bench GG in the Community King’s House Projects Movements in

the Offices of the Custodes

GGPE Overview King’s House

Staff Candids Human Resource Matters Quick Fact Upcoming

Events

Office of the Governor– General Jamaica I Believe Initiative

@KingsHouse_GG @ibija

Feb – Apr 2016 www.kingshouse.gov.jm Quarterly

The following is an excerpt from The Governor-General’s address at his annual general staff meeting in April 2016. There has been tremendous change and restruc-turing at King’s House over the years since 2009. We still have not achieved all what we want to achieve but we never stop growing. Wherever there is life we have to grow. As long as you are alive you should be improving; you should be learning. There is a Latin phrase to express this; Ubi Semper Discimus meaning where learning never ends. Certainly, in a dynamic organization like this we

should be reminded of what we are about - “A culture of excellence through people performance and partnership” after all, no man is an island, no man stands alone. Why does this office exist? To remind you of the uniqueness, there is no other in the island. The Office of The Governor-General is the Constitutional Office of the Head-of-State. It is not part of the government as you know it. All the workers are accountable to King’s House. We operate with consideration from the Consolidated Fund. The roles that are carried out at King’s House you should understand. They are Constitutional, Legislative and Ceremonial. Inspecting the guard at the National Honours and Awards, receiving Ambassadors, Swearing-in-Prime Ministers and Ministers, Judges and Custodes are some of the Ceremonial functions. All of those ‘high level’ activities go on quite frequently at this office. King’s House is a very active place that must be guarded and cared. I therefore encourage you, don’t be disturbed, perturbed or be anxious about that conversation (in the media regarding the removal of The Queen as Head of State). Be thankful for your job and appreciate where you work. Like (the Apostle) Paul, be sober and vigilant. King’s House has three types of staff: Corporate, Personal and Security. Each staff functions under the aegis of one of these. Whatever category of staff you are, you make effort to personalize the vision. The culture is that: We act professionally, politely, respectfully and treat each other accordingly. We do our best to excel in whatever we do. As preparation is being made for Governors– General to attend The Queen’s official 90th birthday celebration in June, I reminisce on my visits to Buckingham Palace. I am always in awe of the resplendence of that place. I observed that it did not happen by chance and so I look forward to going there every time because of the ambiance.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen addresses his staff at the major annual meeting.

Continues to Page 20

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Governor- General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, courteously received the Right Honourable Baroness Scotland, QC, newly installed Commonwealth Secretary General, on her first official visit to Jamaica, on Tuesday, April 26, 2016. Baroness Scotland who took office as Secretary General of the Commonwealth on April 1, selected Jamaica as one of her first ports to call, to discuss with The Governor- General and newly elected Government, opportunities for regional devel-opment.

Baroness Scotland is the sixth Commonwealth Secretary-General. She is the second Secretary-General from the Caribbean and the first woman to hold that post.

Governor- General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen welcomes newly elected Secretary-General of the

Commonwealth of Nations, the Right Hon. Baroness Scotland to Jamaica during a courtesy call on Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at

King’s House.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen engages Baroness Scotland in conversation while Ambassador the Hon.

Burchell Whiteman (right), Special Advisor to The Gov-ernor- General and Lolita Applewhaite (left), Chief of Staff to the Commonwealth Secretary General look on.

Baroness Scotland signs the official guest book at King’s House.

Who is the Deputy Governor– General?

The Deputy Governor – General is any Custos who is sworn-in by His Excellency The Governor - General to act in the vice regal office when His Excellency is off on other duties. The Deputy Governor – General’s designation is therefore not reserved for any one Custos. Any Custos can be selected by The Governor – General to deputize on his behalf.

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It is a pleasure for the Public Relations Team to be presenting another edition of King’s House

Times. This edition tells of some of the latest human and infrastructural developments at King’s House. It

keeps you in the “Know” on the activities of the Office of The Governor-General as His

Excellency executes his Constitutional, Ceremonial and Community functions. It also provides a

conduit for you to know more about the Jamaican Constitution.

Here too is the opportunity to vicariously encounter some of the very important persons with whom

Their Excellencies meet as they execute the duties of the office.

In this edition we have introduced the “Who Is?” feature, intended for you to know more about our colleagues as they

share on themselves, this constitutional office and their views on nation building.

Team PR has an unwavering commitment to assist the organization in demystifying the Roles and Function of The

Governor-General and Staff. It is our objective to use this medium as a means to that end.

Therefore, feel free to send your feedback, comments and suggestions to the editorial team at

kingshouse@kingshouse.gov.jm.

Ms. Sonja Simms Press Secretary Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence

To commemorate this important mile-stone of service excellence in our commu-nities, there will be a series of activities commencing with a Thanksgiving Service at the Webster Memorial United Church, Half Way Tree on June 5, 2016. Other important celebratory activities are: Presentation Ceremony– Cornwall June 23, 2016 Presentation Ceremony– Middlesex July 12, 2016 Presentation Ceremony- Surrey August 25, 2016 The GGAA recognizes individuals (Jamaicans) who have achieved greatly despite difficult and challenging economic circumstances. In 2011, the GGAA was merged with the I Believe Initiative (IBI) to form The Governor– General's Programme for Excellence.

The Governor– General’s Achievement Awards (GGAA) Celebrates its Anniversary

“Inspiring individuals. Building stronger communities.”

1991 2016

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the times that we are living in,” Sir Patrick Allen stated.

Noting that both the Prime Minister and Leader of the Op-

position are from neighbouring constituencies, the Gover-

nor-General urged them to collaborate in order to achieve

great things for Jamaica. “This is what the country is re-

questing of their leaders as they, on election and nomina-

tion days, danced in the streets together, from different

parties, only to go back home and resume their lives.”

In addressing Cabinet Ministers prior to them taking their

Oaths, the Governor-General offered his best wishes and

prayers as they embark on what he referred to as “an epic

journey of impressive proportion.” He noted that Jamai-

cans are expecting a government that will work for them

and serve them well. “You may have to climb out of the

proverbial box sometimes and do creative things to show

that you care and that you understand those expectations,”

he said.

As the new government took office, Sir Patrick Allen con-

gratulated Prime Minister Holness and also expressed

thanks to outgoing Prime Minister the Most Hon. Portia

Simpson Miller, for her stewardship of Jamaica over what

he referred to as “the last four difficult years.”

On March 3, Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen installed the

Most Honourable Andrew Holness as the nineth Prime Minis-

ter of Jamaica. Sir Patrick Allen then completed the process of

installing the new government led by Mr. Holness with the

Swearings-In of Cabinet Ministers and the Attorney General at

King’s House on March 7.

Speaking at the installation ceremony for Prime Minister Hol-

ness, the Governor-General addressed the importance of deci-

sive leadership, consensus building and strong partnerships

as the new government prepares to carry out the mandate it

has received. “Existing and predicted economic and social

challenges will require of a new Prime Minister strong and

decisive leadership. The style of leadership that can motivate

partnerships at the local level and in the regional and interna-

tional arena, as well as understand what must be done, given

The Governor - General Urges Consensus and Partnerships

The Most Hon. Mr. Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica (centre) with the Attorney General (3rd left), members of the Cabinet

and State Ministers.

Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen (left), presents the In-strument of Appointment to Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, during the Swearing– In Ceremony on

Thursday, March 3, 2016 at King’s House.

Her Excellency the Most Hon. Lady Allen shares a light moment with Prime Minister the Most Hon. Mr. Andrew Holness, and his wife the

Most Hon. Mrs. Juliet Holness.

As New Government is Installed

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Haile Selassie I’s Grandson Visits King’s House

Deputy Governor-General the Hon. Mrs. Marcia Bennet CD, JP

received His Imperial Highness Prince Ermias-Sahle-Selassie

and his wife Princess Saba Kebedein for a courtesy call, at

King’s House, on Friday, April 22, 2016.

Deputy Governor- General the Hon. Marcia Bennet CD, JP (right) presents a gift to His Imperial Highness Prince Ermias- Sahle- Selassie and his wife Princess Saba Kebe-dein during a courtesy call at King’s House on Friday, April 22, 2016 .

Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, encouraged Jamaicans in South Florida, who can afford, to

explore ways in which they can make a difference in the lives of

their fellow-men, especially in giving back to the needy. In delivering the keynote address at the 20th annual fund-raising

dinner of the Friends of Good Shepherd International Incorpo-

rated (FOGS), in South Florida on April 2, 2016, His Excellency

referred to scriptures to support his call. “Matthew 25:40, ‘As often as you did it to one of the least of my

brothers and sisters, you did it to me,’” His Excellency asserted.

GG Urges Florida-based Jamaicans to Give Back

L to R: Their Excellencies the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen and the Most Hon. Lady Allen (both patrons of Honour) with Maureen Knips (VP of Vitas Healthcare), Donna Borland (Manager of Vitas Healthcare), and the Most Rev. and Hon. Charles H. Dufour at the Friends of the Good Shepherd 20th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner.

Farewell President Rutherford

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen bids outgoing President of Andrews Memorial Hospital, Dr. Patric Rutherford farewell during a courtesy call on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at King’s House.

Prince Sahle-Selassie’s visit was in commemora-

tion of the 50th anniversary of that of his grandfather, Ethiopia’s former Emperor, His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I. The Prince’s call on the Office of The Governor–

General is being viewed as one of great signifi-

cance to the Jamaican cultural community.

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The Horace Clarke High School (formerly Islington High

School) in St. Mary is to start observing “Lady Allen

Day” annually. The official announcement was made at

the school’s Annual Awards ceremony on Thursday,

March 10, 2016 where Her Excellency the Most Honour-

able Lady Allen, wife of The Governor- General, who

originates from the Islington community, delivered the

keynote address.

The School’s Board Chairman, Dr. Robert Ffrench who

made the revelation stated that such a move is part of

their school improvement and rebranding efforts. He as-

serted that, “Lady Allen Day” will be a motivational tool

aimed at increasing the morale of the school - students,

teachers and members of the administrative staff alike.”

Dr. French further stated that it will be a much anticipated

day when the school community presents its achieve-

ments and progress to Her Excellency and she interacts

with students during classroom visits.

Meanwhile, Lady Allen in her inspiring address, advised

that, “choice, not circumstances, determines one’s suc-

cess.” In highlighting her childhood experience in the

poverty- stricken community, she stated, “You will have

a lot of negative people who will tell you that you cannot

achieve your dream because of your circumstances, but

you have to make a choice and your choice is going to

determine what your outcome will be.”

Lady Allen reminded the students of the importance of

maintaining high standards and avoiding anyone or any-

thing that will derail them from their Journey of Excel-

lence.

Horace Clarke High School to Observe Lady Allen Day

Her Excellency the Most Hon. Lady Allen delivers an impas-sioned keynote address at the Horace Clarke High School’s

Awards Ceremony on Thursday, March 10, 2016.

Mrs. Norma Clarke, wife of the school’s eponym, Horace Clarke, presents Kenroy Panton, with an award he copped for obtaining eight CSEC subjects. Panton also received an award for his suc-cess in Housekeeping in the NCTVET as well as the Hyacinth

Gayle trophy for outstanding achievement in Biology.

The Horace Clarke High School Drummers performs an enter-taining piece, “Rasta Vibration” at the school’s award ceremo-

ny on Thursday , March 10, 2016.

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Four Judges Sworn to High Courts Two Judges of Appeal, a Puisne Judge and a Master-in

Chamber have been appointed to high courts. The Hon. Mr. Justice Frank Williams and the Hon. Ms.

Justice Carol Edwards, will serve as judges of the Appeal Court; the Hon. Ms. Justice Carolyn Tie, as

Puisne Judge in the Supreme Court; and Mrs.

Stephane Jackson Haisley, as Acting Master-in-Chambers. The appointments were formalized in a Swearing- in

Ceremony conducted by Deputy Governor - General

the Hon. Steadman Fuller at King’s House on Tuesday

March 29, 2016. While congratulating the judges, the Deputy Governor- General highlighted that their appointment

reflects strides being made within the judicial system. He further urged them to “continue to protect the legitimacy and integrity of the judicial system and

borrowing words from the Chief Justice, told them to be mind-

ful that when one reaches a certain position in the judicial sys-

tem, “there are some places that one cannot go, there are some

people that one cannot associate with, there are some things

that one cannot do, there are some emotions that one cannot

express and there are some favours that one cannot accept

(and let me add) or deliver.”

Deputy Governor-General the Hon. Steadman Fuller (centre) with Chief Justice the Hon. Mrs. Justice Zaila McCalla (3rd right), President of the Court of Appeal the Hon. Mr. Justice Dennis Morrison (3rd left) and newly appointed judges. L-R the Hon. Ms. Justice Carol Edwards, the Hon. Ms. Justice Carolyn Tie, Mrs. Stephane Jackson Haisley and the Hon. Mr. Justice Frank Williams.

Deputy Governor-General the Hon. Steadman Fuller (right) looks on as the Hon. Ms. Justice Carolyn Tie takes the oath of office. Left: Mrs. Dionne Tracey Daniel, Governor– General Secretary.

Governor-General the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen has, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, appointed the the following Attorneys- at-Law as Queen’s Counsel, with effect from April 7, 2016: Senator Thomas Tavares-Finson Mrs. Valerie Neita-Robertson

Queen’s Counsel Appointment

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The Ceremonial Opening of Parliament, where The Governor– General delivered the highly anticipated Throne Speech outlining the government’s plans for the 2016/ 2017 fiscal year, took place on April 14, 2016. This event is never the same without the pomp, pageantry and high fashion from the Ministers of Government, the Parliamentary Opposition and the people.

His Excellency and his ADC depart for Gordon House.

Her Excellency and her Lady– in– Waiting depart for Gordon House. His Excellency inspects the Guard of Honour.

His Excellency delivers the Throne Speech. His Excellency with the Chief of

Defence Staff. Her Excellency with the Speaker of the House,

members of the Judiciary and her Lady- in- Waiting.

His Excellency receives the Royal Salute. Their Excellencies with members of their

security team.

Their Excellencies with outriders and members of their security team.

As is customary, the King’s House staff bade Their Excellencies best wishes as they departed for the George William Gordon House where the event took place. Upon their return, members of Their Excellencies’ security team and outriders were treated to the usually anticipated special luncheon. See the highlights.

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His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen congratulates the fourteen parish finalists in The Gleaner Children’s Own National Spelling Bee

Championship for their high level of devotion, brilliance and compo-sure during a courtesy call on Thursday, February 4, 2015.

Following the Launch of the Royal Air Force Association’s (RAFA) Wing’s Appeal on Wednesday, March 23, 2016, Governor- General

and Patron of RAFA, Sir Patrick Allen was first to place his contribution in the till. Looking on are: L-R Major General (Ret’d) Robert Neish, President, Major (Ret’d) Johanna Lewin, Chairman

(partially hidden) and Valrie Tate, Secretary.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen (centre) with the twelve finalists in the LASCO/JCF Police Officer of the Year 2016 Awards. They made a courtesy call on His Excellency at King’s House on Tuesday, March 8, 2016. LASCO

Executive Chairman, the Hon. Lascelles Chin (3rd left) and Bishop Dr. Gary Welsh (3rd

right) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force also shared in the moment.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen accepted a portrait from Mrs Joylene Griffiths-

Irving (right), Director of Corporate So-cial Responsibility, Scotia Foundation. The portrait was painted by a ward of a

correctional facility. Mrs. Juliet Campbell McPherson, Acting Principal and

students of St. Michael’s Primary School are captured in the presentation moment.

Governor-General, the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen (4th right) and the Most Hon. Lady Allen (3rd right) on Thurs-

day, February 4, 2016 hosted members of the Toronto World Presidents Organization (WPO) for a formal ban-

quet at King’s House. The visit which was dubbed a ‘cultural familiarization tour’ of Kingston was organized

by former president of Scotia Bank Jamaica, Bruce Bowen (right), who is a member of the WPO.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen glances through the pages of “The Business of Nation

Building” presented to him by author, the Hon. Douglas Orane on Tuesday, April 26,

2016 at King’s House.

His Excellency speaks with newly elected Executives of the Lay Magistrates’

Association of Jamaica during a courtesy call on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at King’s

House. Leading the delegation is Mr. Hugh Perry, President.

Their Excellencies Sir Patrick Allen and Lady Allen engage Officers of the Second Battalion, The Jamaica Regiment during a courtesy call at King’s House on

Wednesday, March 23, 2016.

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His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen declaring May 3, 2016 “Read Across Jamaica Day" at a Proclamation Ceremony on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at King's House .

Their Excellencies Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen (right) and Lady Allen (2nd right) unveil the branded Continental Baking Company’s delivery truck bearing logos of the seven manufactur-ers in the 2016 Bold Ones of Manufacturing marketing initiative. Looking on from left are: Steven Sykes (Director of Operations), Janelle Brown (Marketing Manager) and Gary 'Butch' Hendrick-son (Chairman of National Bakery).

On Thursday, April 28, 2016 Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen (centre), shared a moment with teachers and students from Al-pha Infant, St. Josephs Primary, Gregory Park Primary and Mount Moreland Pri-

mary and Junior High Schools. The occasion was the Proclamation Ceremony declaring May 3 “Read Across Jamaica Day”.

Commonwealth Day 2016 Governor– General His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen joined leaders from across the Commonwealth as they marked Commonwealth Day 2016, by delivering The Queen’s message in their respective territories. The message which was titled “An Inclusive Commonwealth” addressed values of tolerance, respect for diversity, participation, equity and fairness. Sir Patrick Allen was joined at King’s House by mem-bers of the diplomatic and consular corps, common-wealth representatives and students as he led the cele-bratory activities on March 14, 2016. The King’s House function was organized by the Royal Commonwealth Society (Jamaica Branch).

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Annual Custodes Meeting & Luncheon

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen looks on as the Hon. William Shagoury, Custos of Clarendon

presents former Custos of St. Andrew the Hon. Donna Parchment Brown a citation on his and Lady

Allen's behalf.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen delivering his ad-dress at the appreciation function, held at the Cay-manas Golf Club on Saturday (April 30, 2016), in

honour of Rev. the Hon. Sophia Azan, for her sterling service to the parish of St. Catherine.

The annual Custodes Meeting and Luncheon hosted by Governor– General His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen was held on Thursday, February 18, 2016 in customarily fine style. It commenced with an in-camera session where the custodes presented their annual reports to His Excellency. Concurrently, Lady Allen was graciously hosting the spouses on a JUTC Kingston City Tour. The tour stopped at Liberty Hall, Downtown Kingston and Devon House. The spouses were treated to an informative exhibition on the life and accomplishments of National Hero The Rt. Excellent Marcus Garvey while on the tour.

St. Catherine’s JPs Farewell for Custos Azan

Governor- General Sir Patrick Allen joined Justices of the Peace to honour retired Custos of St. Catherine Rev. the Hon. Sophia Azan for her service to the parish in an appre-ciation function held at the Caymanas Golf and Country Club on Saturday, April 30, 2016.

Former Custos of St. Catherine, Rev. the Hon. Sophia Azan, laughs as she listens to the remarks of her well-wisher read by Mr. Phillip Keane- Dawes, President of

the St. Catherine Lay Magistrates Association. Looking on is Rev. the Hon. Jeffery McKenzie, Custos

of St. Catherine.

The second session began with a delightful luncheon at which the Hon. Donna Parchment Brown was recognized for her outstanding contribution as Custos Rotolorum for the parish of St. Andrew.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen has the rapt attention of custodes and their spouses as he delivered remark at the

Custodes Luncheon at King’s House.

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Governor- General His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen (right) engages Belizean Governor-General, His Excellency Sir Colville Young in

conversation in the Drawing Room at King's House on Friday, April 8, 2016.

PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS:

Mr. Henrick Bramsen Hahn, Ambassador designate from Denmark,

on Tuesday, April 19, 2016.

Dr. Andras Gabor Drexler, Ambassador designate from Hungary,

on Tuesday, April 19, 2016.

Mr. John Akologu Tia, High Commissioner designate for the Republic of

Ghana on Tuesday, April 19, 2016.

DIPLOMATIC FAREWELL COURTESY

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen looks on as His Excellency Mr. Vladimir Polenov,

Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Jamaica subscribes his farewell wishes in the

official guest book at King’s House on Monday, March 21, 2016.

It was a stately soiree when Their Excellencies Governor– General the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen and the Most Hon. Lady Allen (centre) along with former Governor– General the Most Hon. Sir Kenneth

Hall (2nd right) and the Most Hon. Lady Hall (right) hosted Governor– General of Antigua and Barbuda and his wife Their Excellencies Sir

Rodney Williams (left) and Lady Williams (2nd left) on Thursday April 7, 2016 at King’s House.

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GG Inducts Remarkable Centenarian, Retired JP IBI Member

His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen has

inducted Mr. Howell Burke, an extraordinary 104-year old

retired Justice of the Peace, Former Teacher and Retired

Police a honorary I Believe Initiative (IBI) member . The

event took place in a courtesy visit to the centenarian’s

home in the rural farming district of Tommy King, Rock

River, Clarendon on Wednesday, April 27, 2016. Smartly dressed, donning his badges of distinction received as a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force,

Mr. Burke stood and in clear audible voice, warmly greet-

ed His Excellency, upon arrival, “Good morning Your

Excellency, welcome.”

Following a polite and coherent conversation in which

Mr. Burke recalled watershed moments in his life and

in Jamaica, The Governor - General declared, “Mr.

Burke, God must have His purpose for keeping you

alive and I hope that those of us listening to you this

morning can get a sense of encouragement from your

life.” “Today, I am inducting you as part of the IBI and I

want everybody to understand that they should believe

in themselves no matter what age they are, and that

they can help somebody,” His Excellency continued,

while presenting Mr. Burke with IBI memorabilia and

gift items. The declaration was made in the presence of an audi-

ence comprising, the Hon. William Shagoury, the Clar-

endon Custos, rank and file members of the Jamaica

Constabulary Force, students and teachers of the Rock

River Primary School, family and friends of Mr.

Burke.

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen presents Mr. Burke with an IBI branded memorabilia. The T-shirt in hand carries the words, “I Believe that Mr. Burke is part of what is right with Jamaica…104 not out!” Looking on is the Hon. William Shagoury, Custos of Clarendon.

His Excellency greets Mr. Howell Burke. Looking on is Mr. Burke’s adopted son, Linzel Scully.

Governor- General Sir Patrick Allen, presents a gift basket to the 104 -year old Mr. Howell Burke at his home in Rock River, Clarendon.

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The Governor- General’s Programme for Excellence has launched its new website. The site which offers a fresh look and feel, with a more feature-rich interface can be accessed at www.ggpe.org.jm The new website now brings together the two programmes, Governor-General’s Achievement Awards and the I Believe Initiative in a single space. We invite you to visit the website today and let us know what you think of the offering so far. Let’s spread the great story of the GGPE!

The “I Believe Initiative’s (IBI) - Vision of Love” video competition culminated with unexpected prizes and a courtesy call

on Governor- General, His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen, on Friday (March 11, 2016). With only the winner, Tishauna Mullings expected to be awarded $50,000 to advance her IBI project, the remaining seven

finalists were astonished when it was revealed that they too were going to be presented with second, third and participatory prizes. GGPE National Coordinator, Major (Ret’d) Effiom Whyte disclosed that, “During the review of submitted video, it was

unanimous among the selection panel that the content and quality of the shortlisted entries were of the quality deserving re-

ward.” Shanese Watson was adjudged second place winner and awarded $30,000 for her entry, Young Scholars Inc., Victor ia

Melhado Daley, was placed third and was presented with $20,000 for her Be Inspired project while Cordell Williams,

Michelle Thomas, Mahailla Ricketts, Anneka Salmon rossley and Leneka Rhoden were each presented with participatory

prizes of $10,000 each.

IBI Ambassadors Awarded Cash Prizes to Advance Projects

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen (right) engages GGPE National Coordi-nator, Major Effiom Whyte (Ret’d), sponsors and finalists in the IBI “Vision of Love” video competition and during the courtesy call on

March 11, 2016 at King’s House.

L-R: First place winner, Tishauna Mullings (left) has the rapt attention of His

Excellency Sir Patrick Allen (2nd left), contestants and sponsor representatives.

GGPE Launches New Website

Advisory Board Meeting 2016

Sir Patrick Allen (4th left) hosted the annual Governor– General’s Programme for Excellence (GGPE) Advisory Board Meeting on February 16, 2016. To his immediate left is Major (Ret’d) Effiom

Whyte, GGPE National Co-ordinator.

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KING’S HOUSE TOURS

Duchess Community College, New York, USA.

Foundation Preparatory School, Clarendon.

Ewarton Primary School, St. Catherine.

Their Excellencies continue to host persons, particularly students, on tour of the historic King’s House.

Here are some highlights.

Schoolfield Primary School, St. Elizabeth.

Mandeville Primary & Junior High School, Manchester.

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Work has been completed in the Executive Office which now houses an additional office designated for the Special Advisor to His Excellency The Governor – General.

The King’s House renovation and improvement continues with the replacement of the Annex (Bishop’s Lodge) Porch, the painting of the porch’s roof, railings, window and door skirtings.

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Courtney Howe

One of the most distinguishing features of King’s House is the lush green well-manicured lawns. This aesthetic splendor is one maintained by a team of conscientious grounds staff with years of experience and study in that field. That team is led by the very willing Mr. Courtney Howe. Mr. Howe was kind to share somethings about himself and his experiences working at King’s House. KT: How do you enjoy working at King’s House? CH: Well firstly, you have to love what you do. I am a landscaper /agr iculturalist by profession. Working here, His Excellency gives me the latitude to express myself in ‘plants’. I have the opportunity to create planter beds, the whole aes-thetic, so if I see something to be done, I just go ahead and do it. Based on my 30-years experience in landscaping/horticulture I know what to do. That is why the Senior Management promoted me from Landscape Supervisor to Property Manager, a function which includes the overall property maintenance.

Property Manager

I am very proactive. I do not wait until things have fallen apart before I take action. For example, if we have an official function, personally I ensure that the lights – internal and external, A/C, vector control, access to clean portable water etc. are in place and general cleaning of the ground is done. KT: How long have you been employed to King’s House and what is your work relationship with others like? CH: I’ve been employed here just over 3 years. I am a team person. I have two individuals under my direct supervision and we have open communication. Every Monday morning, we have our meeting. That’s the key strategy that I use – communication - to get things done. Right now, I am one of three staff chosen by the King’s House Senior Management to pursue a Management Course at Management Institute of National Development (MIND). KT: What is your background and how did you ‘land’ your King’s House job?

(Continues to page 18)

CH: Or iginally I am from Clarendon. I was self-employed for 10 years and I saw the advertisement in the newspaper. My son said, ‘daddy see your work there’. It was like they were directly saying come. So when I met His Excellency I told him. Working here is my commitment to giving back to my country for the free education I’ve gained. I have experience working with the Department of Correctional Services. I was in charge of the agricultural units; training of inmates to obtain ag-ricultural skills. KT: What are your Hobbies? CH: My hobby is football.

KT: What are your pet-peeves? CH: Intolerance for foolishness, lame excuses and indiscipline. KT: Family life? CH: I am marr ied over 25 years with two adult children. Both of whom I ensured are educated up to the Bachelor’s Degree Level. My older son, I am now pushing to pursue his Mas-ter’s Degree. Parents should invest in their children’s educa-tion and if they find that their children do not have the aptitude for Math and English, send them into skilled-based programme or send them to the army to get discipline. KH: What are some of the reactions of your colleagues when they know that you work at King’s House? CH: They automatically think I have lots of money. KT: What would you like to see as par t of the further development of King’s House? CH: I’d love to see some development at King’s House in terms of irrigation systems on the lawns, refurbishing of some of the older buildings, like Transport Centre, and the establishment of a shade house to propagate our own plants. Also I’d like for us to create a Tropical Garden for the benefit of children who come here on School Tours. There we would like to have donkey rides, swings etc. I don’t like to be restricted. I love development. I just love to see things grow.

Give me lime and I’ll turn it into lemonade.

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Continued from page 17

Emprezz

Jermaine Indian

Timer

Shelly

J– Bestz

Tish

The Crew

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Continues to page 20

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Continued from page 19

I know that there are individuals in Jamaica who look forward to coming to King’s House. This is their Buckingham Palace. That is why we take so much pride in what we do. As we transition to King’s House being a heritage site, I urge every staff to keep up the good work and do not be distracted from your goals.

GG Encourages Staff at Annual Meeting Continued from Page 1

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King’s House staff showed their appreciation for His Excellency on his birthday.

February His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen Hezekiah Brown Ricky Austin Tisheecka Clarke Garfield Blackwood Melanie Smith Charmaine Campbell Oneil Hamilton Raphael Bassiere

March Audrey Sadler Errol Williams Nikesha Brown Monique Anderson Phydelca Thomas

April Julian Jones Bevon Powell Ralston Gordon Lerone Morrison Kellita Downer Andrea Harrison Maureen Collins Yvonne Vidal

Birthday Celebrants this Quarter

A surprised Sir Patrick Allen.

Mrs. Dionne Tracey Daniel gives the staff thumbs-up for their team work, to the

amazement of Their Excellencies

His Excellency expresses his grati-tude to the staff for staging his sur-prise birthday celebration. Lady Al-

len smiles in satisfaction. Birthday Celebrants for the month of February

1,2, 3...Their Excellencies cut the birthday cake.

Their Excellencies cut the cake while Mrs. Dionne Tracey Daniel looks on.

As part of the staff development at King’s House, the following individuals were selected to complete professional development training during the quarter. Ingrid Kelly – Supervisory Management Tisheecka Clarke – Supervisory Management Courtney Howe – Supervisory Management Nikesha Brown – Government Accounting Level 1 “Learning never exhausts the mind.” Leonardo da Vinci

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For Administrative Professionals Day held on April 27, 2016, the Human Resource Directorate showed their appreciation by presenting the King’s House secretaries with gift baskets. It also sent the message below: On a regular basis you will transcend the parameters of your job descriptions to being magicians, therapists and even concierges. You seem to have a knack for holding the offices together even when everything around is crumbling. For this, we applaud our secretaries: Ingrid McLennon Kelly

Charmaine Campbell

Andrea Harrison

Phydelca Thomas

Avagay Kerr

Continue doing what you do best, you certainly form part of the backbone of this organization!

Ambassador Burchell Whiteman, Special Advisor to The Governor– General

Verna Dwyer, Deputy Governor- General’s Secretary (Corporate Services) Shelly-Ann Stone, Household Maid Tomlin Graham, Chef Judene Edwards, Events Co-ordinator Michael Thompson, Groundsman Avagay Kerr, Executive Secretary

Their Excellencies and staff welcome the follow-ing persons to the King’s House team and wish you a great stay!

For those leaving we say best wishes and suc-cess in your endeavours. Sharon Durrant, Household Maid Jason Myers, Valet Shaun Lee, Human Resource and Administration Director

(Continues to page 23)

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His Excellency to Visit The Queen On the invitation of Her Majesty The Queen, His Excellency The Governor– General departs the island in June to participate in the celebratory activities for Her Majesty’s official 90th birthday celebrations. The other activities are as follow: Thursday June 9, 2016– The Governors– General

of the Realms meet The Queen. Friday June 10, 2016– The Queen and The Duke of

Edinburgh will attend a National Service of Thanks-giving at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Saturday June 11, 2016– The Queen’s official

birthday. Her Majesty accompanied by members of the Royal Family will attend at The Queen’s Birth-day Parade on Horse Guards Parade.

Sunday June 12, 2016– The Queen will attend the

Patron’s Lunch, a celebration of Her Majesty’s pat-ronage of over 600 organizations in the UK and around the Commonwealth since 1952.

The Queen celebrated her actual birthday on April 21, 2016.

Twenty one food handlers permits were issued among the household and grounds staff at King’s House on April 27, 2016.

This issuance of the food handlers permits followed a successful training session done in collaboration with the King’s

House Human Resource and Administrative Department and the Ministry of Health.

Food Handlers’ Permit Renewal

(Continued from page 22)

Their Excellencies’ Corporate visits May 11– I Believe Initiative Summer of

Service Launch May 28- Fundraising Banquet –Jamaica

Red Cross (Manchester Branch) June 5– Governor- General’s Achieve-

ment Award Church Service 25th Anni-versary Launch

June 9– I Believe Initiative Summer of

Service Application Deadline June 20 - Sir Patrick Allen & Lady Allen 40th Anniversary Scholarship Application Deadline June 23– Governor- General’s Achieve-

ment Award Ceremony (Cornwall) June 25– Lay Magistrate’s Golden Scale

Awards Ceremony June 27–Summer of Service Projects

Begin July 12- Governor- General’s Achieve-

ment Awards Ceremony (Middlesex)

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The Governor– General

The Governor-General is the representative of Her Majesty The Queen who is Head of State in Jamaica. Governors-General are appointed by the Crown on the advice of the Jamaican Prime Minister. As The Queen's representative, The Governor-General gives formal assent to the laws passed in Jamaica by the Parliament before those laws can take ef-fect. The Governor-General’s role covers constitutional, legislative, ceremonial and community activities. He acts in accordance with the Constitution and the respective law that gov-erns the appointment of the Executive, Judicial and other bodies. The present Governor-General is the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Linton Allen, ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J.

King’s House Mission Statement

"To support The Governor-General in the execution of constitutional,

legislative, ceremonial and social duties of the Office."

King’s House Vision Statement "A culture of excellence through people performance and partner-

ships."

Provide your feedback, suggestions, observations, and appropriate content to

be published in upcoming editions of King’s House Times. Email: kingshouse@kingshouse.gov.jm

PRODUCED BY KING’S HOUSE PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT Press Secretary: Sonja Simms (Editor - In - Chief)

Public Relations Manager: Maxine Francis (Editorial and Photography) and

Public Relations Officer: Janiel Lambert (Editorial, Photography and Layout)

KING’S HOUSE Hope Road, Kingston 6, Jamaica W.I.

Tel: 927– 6827; Fax: 978– 6025 www.kingshouse.gov.jm

Get Involved With the Governor– General’s Programme

for Excellence (GGPE)

The need amongst our citizens is great. Each one can help one. Together we can do even more.

DONATE Contact us at: The Governor-General’s Programme for Excellence (GGPE) King’s House Hope Road Kingston 6 OR kingshouse@kingshouse.gov.jm

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

Offer to assist with a project by contacting the GGPE or the Custos of your Parish. Write to the Custos of your Parish and ask for consideration to serve as an Ambassa-dor. Include your resume. Serve on the Parish or National Committee.

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