Contract signed for Phase II of Justice Square Construction

T he Ministry of Justice signed a contract valued at $245 million for Phase II of the Justice Square Pro-ject. The contract was signed on December 2, 2013 in the Ministry’s Large Conference Room.

The work, to be undertaken by MLO Construction over a six-month period, involves the further refurbishing of the Supreme Court and renovation of the former National Com-mercial Bank (NCB) building on King’s Street, downtown King-ston. The Justice Square project is part of the Reform Policy Agenda of the Ministry of Justice and is intended to provide appropriate work conditions for judges and court personnel, as part of overall efforts to improve the justice system. Speaking at the contract signing Justice Minister, Sena-tor the Hon. Mark Golding, said that Justice Square represents an important investment for the people of Jamaica. “It is essential that while the laws are strengthened and modernized, so too must the physical infrastructure of the court system be enhanced and developed to bring about the requisite improvements in the delivery of justice,” he stated. Upon completion, Justice Square will house seven addi-

tional courtrooms, four additional judges’ chambers, and two additional chambers for the masters in chambers of the Supreme Court. The complex will also house the Su-preme Court Civil Registry, the Registry for matrimonial matters, holding areas, two witness rooms, a police post, and support areas for the full staff complement required to service the judicial activities. “I trust that the users will find aes-thetic pleasure in the completed facility, and that litigants, judges, counsel and court staff will enjoy the improved working environ-ment that it will afford. I charge all users of this complex, when it is completed, to treat it with due respect and care and to be mind-ful that the halls of justice should be orderly and fit for purpose. We should all do our part to maintain the facilities for future gen-erations,” Minister Golding added. Permanent Secretary Carol Palmer, said that the judges and all court personnel “are anxiously awaiting the use of the facil-ity.” Phase I of Justice Square began in

early 2011, following the Ministry’s signing of a contract valued at $399 million on February 23, 2011. Minster Golding also informed that demolition work had begun at 2 Hagley Park Road, which is intended to be the new home of the Traffic Court and the Ministry of Justice. He noted that this move would save the public purse tens of mil-lions of dollars that is now being spent annually on renting of-fice space for the Ministry.

Senator the Honourable Mark Golding signs the contract for Phase 2 of the contract

for Justice Square. Looking on are Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Carol Palmer and Mrs.

Melanie Fisher, Managing Director for MLO Construction (right).

The Official Newsletter of the Ministry of Justice

Issue #2 January 2014

We will continue to push for

funding to undertake additional

capital works to improve our

justice system, until all our

dilapidated court buildings across

Jamaica have been upgraded

to adequate standards

- Senator the Hon. Mark Golding

In this quarter’s ‘Meet’ feature, we sit down with the Direc-

tor for Training and Academic Affairs of the Justice Train-

ing Institute, Ms. Coreen Dennis

Q: Where did you grow up and how many brothers do you have? I grew up in Vineyard Town. Up until the age of twelve, I thought I was an only child living with a single mother. At that age I hap-pened to gain access to my birth certificate, only to realize that my mother was not my mother and my uncle was actually my father. I was distraught and traumatized. Instantly I gained an-other mother, three brothers and a sister. Oh and my Uncle/Dad still claims, “It wasn't me!” Q: Tell us about your educational background from elemen-tary school through tertiary education. I attended Rollington Town Primary, sat the Common Entrance and was placed at the school of my first choice, the legendary Excelsior High School. I thoroughly enjoyed high school and par-ticipated extensively in extra curricular activities. In 1979, I med-alled in the Hurdles event at the then Girls’ Championships. Later

at St. Josephs’ Teachers College, I received a Distinction in Early Childhood Education. I gained an Upper Second Class Honours in Educational Administration at the University of the West Indies and recently completed a Masters in Teaching – Adult Learning at MICO College University. As a vocation, I have successfully completed HEART Level 2 in Commercial Food Preparation. Q3: How long have you worked at the JTI and how would you describe your tenure? In 2008 I came on secondment from the Ministry of Education and was employed as Programme Coordinator, SEG 2. Coming from a classroom, I am eternally grateful to Mrs. Arlene Williams, former Director, Training and Academic Affairs for selflessly guid-ing me from teaching to administration. During the 5 years, I have acted as Director, Training Academic Affairs (2009, 2010) and Director Principal (2011–2012). I am currently appointed Director, Training and Academic Affairs. Working at the JTI is a continuous learning experience. I have added volumes of knowledge and numerous skills in administrative, andragogical, legal and non-legal matters. I am happy to have been able to contribute to the many milestones of the JTI including the revision of the Justices of the Peace Manual for Qualifying Training and also the Manual for Specialized Training for Petty Sessions Court. At JTI I have developed ‘medium rare’ skills such as tact, diplomacy, protocol, tolerance, patience and long-suffering; the latter three are fruits of the Spirit! Q: What are your other areas of interest or hobbies outside of your work at JTI? As a Christian, I am very involved in various ministries at the Ap-ostolic Church of Jamaica, Peniel Tabernacle. I am a Deaconess and Sunday School Superintendent. I dabble a bit with the ink and on three occasions was awarded Letter of the Day in the Daily Gleaner. Live Football and recorded cricket are my sports pastime. I enjoy listening to music and I love to dance. I enjoy writing proposals and planning events. I am deeply involved in community development and the personal and spiritual develop-ment of individuals. Q: If you weren't in the particular field what might you other-wise be doing or what did you want to do growing up? I wanted to become an air hostess. I dreamed of flying to all the countries in the world and having an apartment in each. Lol! Early pregnancy clipped those wings. I then wanted to become a nurse but I didn't think it could channel all my creativity. So I guess I am doing what I want and ought to be doing. Q: You recently received the Governor General’s Award for Outstanding Service to your Community. Tell us about that? The recommendation was made by the President of the St. An-drew Justices of the Peace and Lay Magistrates Association. For the record, I serve on the GG’s Awards Committee. It was pru-dent and ethical for me to excuse myself from this year’s sitting after being told that I was nominated. In August I was invited to attend an interview. I understand that the other nominees were of equal calibre however the depth of my community involvement and my humble beginnings, gave me the edge. The award was bestowed at a Luncheon held in St. Thomas and the Pinning Ceremony was held at King’s House in November 2013. This recognition has humbled me. When Custos Harding called to inform me, my initial thoughts where, “Lord, who am I that you are mindful of me?”

ISSUE #2

Ms Dennis (right) poses with Custos Rotulorum of St Andrew,

Marigold Harding after receiving the Governor General's Award

for the Parish of St. Andrew

Coreen Dennis

Justice News for us, by us

JUST-Us News is a quarterly publication of

the Ministry of Justice

If you are interested in submitting material to JUST-Us News

please send us an email. We invite your comments,

suggestions and feedback. Special thanks to those who

have contributed to this Issue & we look forward to your

continued support

Editorial Committee: Damian Wilson, Jodi-Ann Smith, Maureen

Appleton, Sharon Duffus-Grant

Contact:

906-4923-31 (ext: 5677, 5679, 5547)

Produced by the Justice Education Unit

JUST-US NEWS

Q: Could you describe some of the areas of service you have given to your community? I chair the Seaview Gardens Youth Council. We host yearly resi-dential summer teen camps from which the Mentorship Pro-gramme is maintained. I am the President of the Community Development Committee Benevolent Society. This registered entity spearheads planning, implementing and evaluating activi-ties geared towards community development and also procure-ment of resources. I am also a Justice of the Peace; a role that makes me all things to all people. Q: You currently reside in the Seaview Gardens Community. I'm sure some people will say why not live in a less volatile or depressed community. How do you respond to that? Sigh! Long story! I became a start-a-home owner at age 20 which was a momentous achievement. So began the journey of building both home and community. It was a new community that had and still has potential. Years elapse, progress slow but you sort of find reasons why you are needed and why you should remain. The conflict however intensifies with variables such as improved edu-cational levels, work status, and increased earning power. My elderly Mom and teenage son were also determinant. While my son speaks in no uncertain terms of relocation, two years before her demise, Mom declared that she was going nowhere as Seaview was her home. So after much mental turmoil, my mind is made up and I am now fully convinced that it is possible to con-tribute to community development from afar off. I am a part of this community, maybe inextricably linked. There is so much passion for the individuals who live in this com-munity; the potential that resides here, that it has been so difficult to extricate myself from this community. The name Seaview Gar-dens evoke scenes of terror and violence in the minds of most Jamaicans, but having lived here for so long, I have seen every-thing and today Seaview Gardens is not the violent and aggres-sive one that existed sometime in the past. Things have changed, and are changing even as we speak for the better. Many of our sons and daughters have become citizens of repute right here in Jamaica and abroad. There is so much potential here for great-ness if only we can create opportunities for persons to excel. There is still much to be done but now I also need some "me" time and space. Q: Who would you say is the person or persons who have inspired or motivated you the most? For the most part I am pretty self-motivated, even driven at times. However I do recognize the inspiration of others. At my lowest point as a young adult, Mrs. Pansy Johnson, former Principal of St. Joseph’s Infant School revalidated me and encouraged me to attend Teachers’ College. Custodies Marigold Harding and Sophia Azan added poise, dignity and being classy to my reper-toire. Custos Sophia Azan also fans the flames of my spiritual glow or should that be growth! My friend George Barrington for giving me jump starts, push starts or even a tow to ensure I com-plete each endeavour I undertake. Q: What philosophy do you use to guide your life? My philosophical perspectives are entrenched in the teachings of Jesus Christ and are Biblical in their origins. I live by many pro-found Scriptures, however I usually punctuate my thoughts, dreams, plans and outcomes with this one truth, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.”

H uman resource capability in the

justice system has been enhanced

following the graduation of 40

personnel from the Justice Training

Institute (JTI) on December 12, 2013.

The graduates successfully com-

pleted training in the Deputy Clerks Qualifying

Course, Diploma in Paralegal Studies, and

Certificate in Introduction to Computer Appli-

cations. .

At the graduation ceremony held at

the Sts. Peter and Paul Church hall in St. An-

drew, Chief Justice, Zaila McCalla, congratu-

lated the graduates pointing out that the justice

system stands to benefit significantly from

their hard work. .

“I am pleased to note that you have

all made yourselves available to participate in

the various areas. You have taken a significant

step towards enhancing and building your ca-

pacity to contribute to the administration of

justice in our country,” she stated.

Justice McCalla said she was im-

pressed with the size of enrolment in the dep-

uty clerks’ course, noting that the participants

were drawn from various courts. .

“Deputy clerks have been the back-

bone of many Resident Magistrates courts over

the years and they have contributed signifi-

cantly to the smooth running of the court sys-

tem. In fact, in many cases, many newly quali-

fied attorneys-at-law entering the court system

as clerks of court have benefitted from the vast

experience of these officers,” she noted.

She added that they have

“tremendous responsibilities and an important

role to continue to play in our court system.

Some of you may have to prosecute various

cases involving financial crimes and other

criminal cases involving the use of technol-

ogy.”

The Chief Justice also charged the

graduates to maintain integrity, honesty, and

courtesy on and off the job. .

The ceremony included the award of

prizes to top trainees, with the ‘Best All-Round

Performer’ award going to Verna McGaw, who

participated in the paralegal course .

JTI, the training arm of the Ministry

of Justice, was established by an Act of Parlia-

ment in July 1997. .

P ermanent Secretary in the Ministry of

Justice, Mrs. Carol Palmer, has called

for increased sensitization of the ef-

fects caused by substance abuse, with

particular focus on children. .

Delivering the keynote address at a

recognition ceremony for persons in the Drug

Court Rehabilitation Programme, held at the

Knutsford Court Hotel, in Kingston, on No-

vember 27, 2013 she said her call is as a result

of the great risk children face with recreational

drugs. .

“An informed public is an empow-

ered public, and sensitization is important in

influencing behaviour change. It is imperative

that we spread the message of the effects of

substance abuse, and sensitization should com-

mence at the early childhood level, as children

are at great risk of becoming addicted to rec-

reational drugs, such as marijuana, alcohol and

tobacco, which too often progress to long-term

addictive drug use,” Mrs. Palmer said

She argued that drug abuse has

played a major role in the degradation of soci-

ety, and has destroyed the lives of too many

Jamaicans, regardless of socio-economic

status.

“The economic cost of substance

abuse to Jamaica in 2010 was in excess of $3.6

billion,” the Permanent Secretary informed her

audience. .

She explained that the 2001 Govern-

ment policy to introduce the Drug Court Reha-

bilitation Programme, was derived from recog-

nition of the need to save individuals from

themselves and the propensity for addiction to

drugs.“The success of this programme is attrib-

uted to the ongoing partnership with the Minis-

try of Health, from inception. It is an achieve-

ment, it celebrates the responsibility which

these individuals took, and the opportunity

provided to maintain a clean record,” Mrs.

Palmer said. .

The Permanent Secretary urged the

participants to remain focused on their new

life, emphasizing that being free from drugs is

a personal gain for themselves, their families

and the wider society.

T he Office of Director of Public

Prosecutions (DPP) has launched its

disclosure protocol, which will serve

to enhance transparency and ac-

countability in the justice system.

Launched at the Courtleigh Hotel,

Kingston, on October 11, the protocol deals

with the stages, content, exemptions to, and

forms of disclosure. .

In his address, Minister of Justice,

Senator the Hon Mark Golding, noted that the

disclosure protocol will act as a manual, gov-

erning disclosure by the prosecution in crimi-

nal cases. .

“Disclosure is essential in achieving

a fair adjudication process, as it promotes fair-

ness and impartiality. This publication will add

value to the criminal justice system by codify-

ing in a single public document, the principles

which have emerged over the years of common

law jurisprudence,” Senator Golding said.

He noted further that the protocol

will improve the level of transparency in the

prosecution of criminal cases conducted in

Jamaica and enhance the level of justice that is

delivered in the criminal courts.

“The accessibility of the disclosure

publication will provide opportunities for the

Jamaican public to easily understand the main

principles of the law. This protocol should be

treated with a level of respect that reflects the

diligence that has gone into its creation. I

charge our prosecutors with the task of famil-

iarising themselves with its content and apply-

ing it accordingly,” the Minister urged.

ISSUE #2

A review of stories that

made headlines

over the past quarter

40 Graduate from the

Justice Training Institute

Chief Justice, Zaila McCalla (right), addresses the Justice Training Institute’s (JTI) graduation cere-

mony.

Photo by the JIS

Permanent Secretary Calls

for More Focus on Children

to Prevent Drug Abuse

DPP Launches Disclosure

Protocols

The following are a few pieces of Legislation passed during the current financial year (2013-14)

JUST-US NEWS

Commissions of Enquiry Act - This Bill

seeks to modernise and discourage acts

that undermine the effectiveness or integ-

rity of a Commission of Enquiry or which

are disruptive of a Commission’s pro-

ceedings. Penalties have been increased

for offences such as: failure of a witness

to attend or produce documents; adverse

action by employers against employees,

who testify before a Commission; refusal

to take an oath or answer questions; im-

proper dealing with documents; intimida-

tion and bribery of witnesses; and misbe-

haviour affecting the Commissioner’s

proceedings. The fines for these offences

have moved from $500 or imprisonment

for a term not exceeding three months, to

a maximum fine not exceeding $1 million

or imprisonment for a term not exceeding

six months.

The Conch (Expert Levy) (Validation

and Indemnity) Act, 2013 - A levy of

US$1 has been imposed on each pound of

conch exported during the 2013 conch

season. The House of Representatives, on

Tuesday, July 23, approved the Conch

(Export Levy) (Rate of Levy) Order

Resolution, 2013, to facilitate the move.

The law requires that for each conch sea-

son, the rate prescribed by the Minister

must be subject to affirmative resolution

in the House of Representatives.

The Charitable Organizations (Tax

Harmonization) (Miscellaneous Provi-

sions) Act, 2013 – This act makes provi-

sion for the establishment of a compre-

hensive legal and institutional framework

and will facilitate the registration, regula-

tion, administration and governance of

the private voluntary sector operating in

Jamaica. The Charities Bill provides a

definition for charitable organizations and

the designation of the registrar of charita-

ble organizations by the responsible Min-

ister, which will keep and maintain a reg-

ister of all registered charitable organiza-

tions. It also stipulates the designation of

a person or body as the Charities Author-

ity.

Security Interests in Personal Property

Act, 2013 - Businesses should now be

afforded greater access to credit, follow-

ing passage of the Security Interests in

Personal Property Act (2013), in the Sen-

ate, on December 12. The legislation will

allow, for the first time, intangibles, in-

cluding intellectual property and other

forms of personal property to now be-

come part of the collateral that can be

pledged to secure financing for business.

Additionally, it seeks to remove any am-

biguity relating to the property pledged,

to whom such property is pledged, and

allows the secured creditors the right to

seize and repossess such property speed-

ily upon default of payment.

Fiscal Incentives (Miscellaneous Provi-

sions) Act, 2013 – Tabled on October 29,

2013, this act sets out the reforms to be

carried out to corporate tax, including the

introduction of an Employment Tax

Credit (ETC), changes to the capital al-

lowance regime, and revision of provi-

sions governing the utilisation of tax

losses.

Income Tax Relief Act (Large-scale

Projects and Pioneer Industries) Act,

2013 – This act sets out provision for the

designation of large scale projects and

pioneer industries that would qualify for

tax credit under the Income Tax Act.

The Tax Administration Jamaica Act,

2013 - Piloted by Justice Minister, Sena-

tor the Hon. Mark Golding, Tax Admini-

stration Jamaica, will be responsible for

registration, taxpayer services, audit, in-

vestigations, assessments, collection, en-

forcement, legal representation, and vari-

ous support services now being carried

out in respect of domestic taxes. The Bill

provides for the establishment of a board

that will be responsible for overseeing the

general administration of the authority;

and a Commissioner General, who will be

responsible for its day-to-day operation.

The Trade Marks (Amendment) Act,

2013 – Passed on July 16, 2013, this Bill

provides for the revocation of a trademark

as a result of non-use or disuse for a pe-

riod of five years without good reason;

and to establish the Jamaica Intellectual

Property Office (JIPO) as the organiza-

tion responsible for carrying out the du-

ties of the Registrar under the Act.

ISSUE #2

Members of the winning Finance and Accounts department, - Tamika

Jackson, Krystal Powell, Stacy-Ann Johnson-McIntosh, Jhannell James

and Akaya Thorpe (left to right) perform the winning piece in the He-

roes’ Day Performance Competition

Second place finishing Domino Team comprising Okeithi Vickers,

Claudia Powell, Thelesha Warren, Demesha Ellis and Stephan James

cut the cake and display their trophy.

Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Carol Palmer, Senator the Honourable

Mark Golding and Mrs. Melanie Fisher, Managing Director for

MLO Constructions look over the blueprints for Phase II of the

Justice Square project.

Crystal Powell-Britton of the Law Revision Secretariat is decked out in

the colours of season as Departments got into the Holiday mood by

decorating their offices.

Stephan James receives the Bouncer Award for the person who is

known for pumping iron/staying buff, presented to him by Minister of

Justice, Senator Mark Golding during the MoJ Staff Party

Keisha Buchanan of HRM&A receives a token presented by Legal Aid

Executive Director, Hugh Faulkner, aka Hugo Barrington on behalf of her

department for wining the Treasure Hunt

JUST-US NE WS

The four-storey main building or ‘building one’ will house a majority of the Central Ministry’s Units and Departments

The Ministry of Justice will be relocating to its new home at 2 Hagley Park Road, Half-Way-Tree in a matter of months. Here we take you through the progress of the work being done to renovate and retrofit the buildings on site into a new, modern structure. Stay tuned for more updates.

An outside view of ‘building two’ which will house the Traffic and Coroner's Court and the necessary administrative offices. All doors, windows and debris have been cleared from the building

A view from the second floor of ‘building two’ shows that the property is adjacent to the York Plaza and Portmore Bus Terminus. The cleared area below once contained derelict buildings which were demolished and cleared by the Jamaica Defence Force

The building below, at the corner of Eastwood Park Road, is proposed to house the Projects Unit while they oversee the massive works being undertaken

This empty space on the second floor of building two is slated to be trans-formed into a Courtroom for the Traffic Court.

This building which is located behind the main building will house the brand new lunch room/canteen and possibly other staff welfare ameni-ties.

ISSUE #2

O n Saturday, December 21, the “Spirit” was reignited

for a fantastic and festive event that was sure to

loosen up the serious and release the shy and re-

served. It was indeed that time again – Party time!

With the sound of Mariah Carey belting out Christmas

carols like “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night,” the MOJ crew

slowly turned out in their numbers to “bring back the spirit” and

deck the halls of the Hotel Four Seasons in style for the annual

MOJ Staff party.

As staff members arrived, they were given the joyous

opportunity of taking a photograph that will cement their mem-

ory of the party. With smiles multiplying and poses satisfying, it

was a sight to see the beauty and gorgeousness that the Ministry

has been blessed with!

Dinner was served in fine style with a three course

meal cream of Caribbean pumpkin soup, chicken with cranberry

sauce, sweet and sour snapper, gungo peas and good ole mac and

cheese. For dessert, Christmas pudding and chocolate fudge

squares were served. The food was simply incredible and there

was no doubt that the taste buds of all who were in attendance

were pleased. After all great food is necessary to fuel the body

for a night of fun and excitement!

With bellies and hearts drowning in contentment, it

was time for the live entertainment to begin.

Roy Rayon, popular festival song winner, was the

entertainer of the night. He gave renditions of his hits “Love

Fever” and “Give Thanks and Praises.” He was quite a performer

who was not only dressed to the nines but was a phenomenal

dancer. The man really got moves!

Roy Rayon’s crooning was followed by the lovely and

melodious singing of our very own “Hugo Barrington,” aka

Hugh Faulkner, the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Council.

Mr Faulkner is known for fiercely defending the rights of the

Jamaican people but his voice truly has the ability to take you to

another place. With a soothing performance of Larry Graham’s

“One in a Million You,” Hugo Barrington took us to heaven and

back and I for one, was sad to see it end. But the show continued.

After the live performances, the annual “Funny

Awards” were given out to various members of staff. Meant for

entertainment purposes, these awards should not be taken seri-

ously and they certainly added to the excitement to the evening.

The awardees were as follows:

The Bouncer Award (the person who is known for pumping iron/

staying buff) – Stephan James; The Fashionista Award (always

trendy/fashionable) – Stephanie Murdock; The Burning Rubber

Award (the person who leaves the office at 5) – Kerry-Ann

Davis; The Deer in the Headlights Award (the person who is

always dazed and confused) – O’neil Davis; The Drama King or

Drama Queen Award (most dramatic person) – Craig Hurde,

Michelle Williams, Claudia Powell; The Bull Rider Award (the

person who can brave a storm) – Peter Wilson; The Smoothest

Moves Award (the person who is calm under pressure) – Mi-

chael Henlin; and The Top Dog (the most hardworking person in

office) – Michael Henlin, Carol Palmer

The dance party officially started after the awards were

handed out. Several staff members were seen “dropping foot”

and doing the “one drop.” All the dancing and drinking rein-

forced the reason such an event was planned in the first place. It

was meant for enjoyment, to ring in the festive season and one

can concretely say that the objectives were achieved.

Indeed the “spirit” was brought back!

Bring Back the Spirit

Mr Roy Rayon performs for the captive

audience Stephanie Murdock receives the Fashionista

Award from Senator Mark Golding

Craig Hurde receives the Drama King

award from PS Carol Palmer Claudia Powell receiving the Drama Queen

Award

Thelesha Warren accepts the award on behalf of HRM&A for the Cultural

Affairs Competition in October. Here

the prize is presented by Principal Ex-ecutive Officer of the CMS, Carol

Hughes

Mr. Ainsworth Buckeridge seems to be

having a good time at the event. Also

pictured is Elena ‘Lena’ Moholland

Kerry-Ann Davis gets down to the

music. To her left is Donna Parch-

ment Brown and Peter Wilson to

her right

Attendees at this table soak in the eve-

ning’s festivities

The law could be

this funny

Strange Laws, Dumb Criminals

& Frivolous Lawsuits

Dumb Laws

It is illegal to sleep naked in Minnesota

Flushing a loo (toilet)

after 10pm is forbidden

in Switzerland

Driving with sandals/

flip flops in Spain?

Not advised in any

case, but this is a crimi-

nal offence in Spain.

Don’t empty your piggy bank for purchases

in Canada.

If you’re shop-

ping in Canada,

don’t expect

cashiers to ac-

cept stacks of

coins as your

sole method of

payment. Ac-

cording to Can-

ada’s Currency Act, stores can legally refuse

excessive amounts of coins. With pennies, for

example, customers’ payments may be rejected

if they try to use more than 25 one-cent coins at

one time.

Watch your camera in Kazakhstan

Want to capture one last snapshot of your fam-

ily in the airport before you board the plane? In

Kazakhstan, it’s against the law. Photography

in and around airports is illegal, and taking

pictures of military and official buildings is

frowned upon as well.

Dumb Criminals

In Virginia, a janitor went to great lengths to

avoid I.D. in a 7-Eleven robbery, using a ski

mask and rental car for the occasion. But he

also wore his work uniform, which said "Cedar

Woods Apartments" and had his name,

Dwayne, stitched across the front.

ID’d by Instagram

Nathaniel Troy Maye, 44, and Tiwanna Tenise

Thomason, 40, were wanted for identity theft

and were caught thanks to some boneheaded

social networking. While out for a fancy steak

dinner, the couple snapped an Instagram pic

and tagged the location. The picture was used in

court to help identify the two, who face up to 12

years behind bars. Hashtag #lastmeal?

Police in Ossining, New York, were called to a

mini-mart where they found Blake Leak, 23,

trying to break in. They chased Leak through

the streets until both cops took a tumble. Seiz-

ing the opportunity, Leak sought refuge on the

grounds of a large building. The building was

the Sing Sing Maximum Security prison, where

he was promptly nabbed by a guard.

You Mean It's Not Scout Night?

Two machete-wielding men barged into a Syd-

ney, Australia, bar demanding money. They

didn't know the club was hosting a bikers' meet-

ing at the time. One of the robbers ended up in

the hospital, the other hog-tied with electrical

wire.

Frivolous Lawsuits

Holy Roller Vs Magicians

Christopher Roller, a resident of Minnesota

sued David Blaine and David Copperfield –

demanding that they reveal their secret magic

tricks to him. He demanded 10% of their total

income for life. The reason for the suit is that

Roller believes that the magicians are defying

the laws of physics, and thereby using godly

powers.

Pennsylvania Graduate School Student Sues

Teacher Over C+ Grade

Graduate student Megan Thode was more than

displeased when she discovered that her medio-

cre C+ grade would prevent her from getting

her intended degree and becoming a licensed

therapist. According to Thode’s math, this

would cost her $1.3 million in lost earnings.

This case might ring a bell, as it is currently

being heard in Northampton County Court.

High School Student Sues for Being Woken

Up in Class

In 2008, sleepy 16-year-old Connecticut high

school student Vinicios Robacher dozed off

during class and was awoken when his math

teacher, Melissa Nadeau, smacked her palm

down on his desk.The student’s parents decided

to sue Danbury High School, the Connecticut

Board of Education and the city of Danbury on

his behalf, claiming that Vinicios suffered

“severe injuries to his left eardrum.”

Man Sues Michael Jordan for Facial Resem-

blance

We thought everyone wanted to be like Mike,

but in a bizarre case in 2006, Allen Heckard

filed a lawsuit against Michael Jordan and Nike

founder Phil Knight for a combined $832 mil-

lion. Half of the amount, $416 million, was

aimed at Jordan simply for having similar facial

features, while the other $416 million was

aimed at Nike for turning Jordan into the recog-

nizable figure that he is. Heckard had been

mistaken for the NBA superstar for the last 15

years and had grown tired of it. Heckard told

the court that Jordan caused him emotional pain

and suffering, defamation and personal injury.

JUST-US NEWS

ISSUE #2

The JUST-Us News would like to ac-knowledge those who celebrated a birth-day between the months of October and December.

The more you praise and celebrate your

life, the more there is in life to celebrate. - Oprah Winfrey

OCTOBER

Brenda Smith - 1st

Yanesha Lewis-Clarke - 2nd

Carmen Aitchenson - 3rd

PS Carol Palmer - 4th

Rosemarie Gibbs - 10th

Vivian Gordon - 16th

Julian Cowan - 21st

Cheryl Watkis - 28th

Peta-Ann Morris - 28th

Donna Parchment Brown - 28th

Sharma Norton-Brown - 31st

NOVEMBER

Ainsworth Buckeridge - 1st

Peter Parchment - 3rd

Alma Smith-Tyndale - 5th

Carol Taylor - 6th

Jamila Simms - 6th

Petrina Denton-Allen - 8th

Stacey-Ann Dixon-Grey - 11th

Hazel Vaz - 22nd

Portia Graham - 23rd

Rhoan Byfield - 25th

Christene Rowe - 26th

Christine Gobern - 28th

DECEMBER

Shirley Thompson - 6th

Craig Hurd - 6th

Keisha Buchanan - 6th

Diane Walcott-Blair - 7th

Stephanie Murdock - 8th

Michelle Squire - 9th

Sophia Johnson - 13th

Sasha Wilson - 14th

Ramone Jeffrey - 14th

Thelesha Warren - 17th

Hyacinth Smith - 21st

Andrea Mason - 25th

Velma Francis - 31st

In this feature, we check in on members of staff who are no longer with the Ministry

Mrs. Florence Bent, is a former Office Services Manager at the Ministry

of Justice, retiring in 2010. “The years I served the Ministry has enabled

me to gain some very special and fond memories that have left lasting

indelible marks.”

“As an Office Manager I was responsible for Hospitality Ser-

vices in which the necessary preparation of all ceremonies, the annual

Prayer Services, ground breaking for new courthouses, opening of

the court houses, training courses, meetings, concerts, sport days,

Christmas parties even nine nights.

In recalling some of her most memorable experiences, Mrs.

Bent said - “one day I was approached by a man who advised me

that he was referred to speak with a high ranking person within the

Ministry, however, he was not allowed to do so. As a result, he was

devastated and began crying. He told me that he had committed a

crime and spent several years in prison, now he was seeking a job to

care for his mother and children. He was a baker by profession how-

ever he was unable to procure employment due to his past.”

“He told me that he would be willing to sell snacks at a

designated spot if he could get some financial assistance. Seeing his

state and upon his reassuring me that he would not go back to prison

as had caused shame and hardship on his mother and children, I had

compassion on him and procured all the items he needed. Not long

after, this man’s life changed and he became a well-rounded entre-

preneur – I was so proud.”

On another occasion, Mrs Bent recalls that she came in

contact with an elderly lady from St. James who was referred to the

Ministry regarding her nationality. She was advised that this matter

seemed impossible as she had no birth certificate. Impossible as it

seemed, she made a few calls and within a few days, the precious

document was found. Although the elderly lady was denied the op-

portunity to be with her sick loved one overseas, she was most grate-

ful for the assistance .

“I purposed within my heart that I must find ways to help

the helpless and this I did gracefully. Upon leaving the Ministry, I

left behind all my adopted family whom I love dearly as we are al-

ways in contact with each other. My retirement after serving the

Government for 38 years has given me the opportunity to spend

more time with my family overseas and more time to spend in my

spiritual walk with the Lord.”

Mrs. Bent leaves her former colleagues with the following:

“May I take this opportunity to greet you all in the name of Jesus and

sincerely wish for you all God’s guidance and His everlasting bless-

ings for 2014 and onward.”

* We apologize for any omissions to this list

Florence Bent

JUST-US NEWS

Courtroom Movie Review:

A Few Good Men Starring: Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson and Demi Moore

Guantanamo Bay-based marines Lance Corporal Harold Dawson and Private Louden

Downey are charged with murder after assaulting Private William Santiago. Special

Judge Advocate Counsel Lieutenant Joanne Galloway believes Dawson and Downey

were just following orders, as part of the marine’s unofficial “code red” where there is

self-policing within the ranks, and that there was no intent of murder. Galloway, a naive

lawyer who seeks fairness and justice at all cost, wants to be assigned the case but she

has no trial experience. Instead, the military assigns Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee to be lead

counsel. Kaffee is a lightweight lawyer who also has no trial experience and a history of

taking, as Galloway refers, ‘the path of least resistance’ by plea bargaining regardless of

his clients’ guilt or innocence. Galloway becomes co-counsel in the case. The two have

to decide what to do, not an easy task considering their differing views on law and what

is best for all including themselves. They do believe Dawson and Downey's story that

they were following unofficial code red orders, but are uncertain if their case is winnable,

especially against the marine machine run by Gitmo's Colonel Nathan Jessep.

For most people from the Caribbean, Christmas

isn’t the same without a tall glass of sorrel

drink to quench your holiday thirst! And if you

want to pack a punch, add some white rum,

pimento, ginger and port wine (optional).

You’ll have yourself a party pleaser! But sorrel

isn’t just a drink of choice for many in the

Caribbean at Christmas time. It’s also good for

you. A glass of sorrel a day will keep the doc-

tor away!

BACKGROUND INFORMATION Three varieties of sorrel are grown in Jamaica,

a common variety (traditional red) which bears

in the first and last quarter of the year, a blood

red variety (early bearing red) which bears all

year round and was introduced in the last two

years and a white/green sorrel, which bears in

December. Traditionally, a refreshing beverage

flavoured with rum and ginger is prepared

using the fleshy calyces at Christmas time.

However, in recent times, the use of the sorrel

in Jamaica has been extended to include the

production of a squash and chutney. Other

reported uses of the fleshy calyces in the West

Indies and elsewhere in the Tropics includes

preparation of jelly, tea, marmalade, ices, ice

creams, pies, sauces, tarts and other desserts.

SORREL THE WORLD OVER Sorrel is in fact used in many parts of the world

for a number of health ailments. In India, Af-

rica and Mexico it is used as a diuretic, to

lower blood pressure and to stimulate the pro-

duction of bile by the liver. In some parts of

Africa the red calyx is used to relieve coughs,

while the leaves are made into a poultice to

relieve boils and abscesses. In Guinea it is used

as a diuretic and sedative. In parts of Asia it is

used as a tonic for weakness in the body and as

a laxative as it stimulates intestinal peristalsis.

CURRENT RESEARCH Research suggests that sorrel may be used as a

deterrent against certain kinds of cancer due to

the presence of a group of compounds called

flavonoids, now thought to be powerful anti-

oxidants which scavenge the body of disease-

causing free radicals. Studies at the Northern

Caribbean University have revealed that sorrel

could kill certain types of cancer cells. Sorrel

has been proven to reduce the risk of heart

disease by significantly reducing elevated cho-

lesterol and triglyceride levels, as it helps to

prevent the clogging of arteries. It also has

benefits as a diuretic and a weight loss aid

when taken daily. Ongoing research in Britain

is investigating its use in the reduction of high

blood pressure, with positive results thus far,

suggesting that daily consumption of sorrel tea/

drink may help to prevent or reduce high cho-

lesterol, high blood pressure and some cancers.

COMPONENTS Vitamin C in sorrel: Helps to build the im-

mune system and reduce the chances of getting

certain illness such as the flu, especially at this

time of the year. It also helps with the absorp-

tion of iron found in dried peas, dried beans

and dark green leafy vegetables (non-heme

iron); and helps with the healing of cuts and

bruises.

Vitamin B1 in sorrel: It helps the body to get

more energy for the brain and nerve cells from

the starchy foods that are eaten.

Vitamin B2 in sorrel: It helps the body to get

energy from the fat that is stored on the body

during exercise; Prevents damage to cells.

Flavonoids in sorrel: Help to reduce the risk

of cancer and heart disease.

Fibre in sorrel: It helps to lower blood-sugar

levels; Helps to lower the 'bad cholesterol' or

low density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol and

increase the 'good cholesterol' or high-density

lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol. The fibre con-

tent of sorrel is dependent on how the sorrel is

prepared. When the whole sorrel flower (seeds

and calyx) is used in making drink or other

products, more fibre will be consumed and will

be of greater health benefit. We know that

calcium helps to build and maintain strong

bones. It also helps your heart, muscles and

nerves to function properly. Niacin is a B vita-

min and has long been used to increase HDL

'the good cholesterol'.

Source: Jamaica Gleaner and Jamaicanicateas.com

Health and Wellness:

Health Benefits

of Sorrel

ISSUE #2

From The Jamaica Civil

Service Association

On Wednesday, December 18, 2013 KIA Motors and the Jamaica Civil Service Asso-ciation (JCSA) signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the dealer-ship’s showroom on Chelsea Avenue. This MOU will see the union’s public sector workers benefiting from discounted rates and a hassle free process in acquiring units at the dealership.

President O’Neil Grant of the JSCA, said this very important initiative was in keeping with the association’s mandate. “Our motto speaks to looking after the legitimate concerns of its members and doing what we can to make those hopes and dreams a reality. In addition, Mr. Dwight Moore, CEO of KIA Motors, described the venture as a “project which seeks to reward some of the nation’s pillars”.

JCSA Secondary School Quiz Competition

The JCSA Annual Secondary School Quiz Competition was held on Thursday, No-vember 21, 2013 at the Medallion Hall Hotel. A total of eleven (11) schools partici-pated. Campion College emerged the victor, with Calabar High School, 1st runner up and Merl Grove High School, 2nd runner up.

JSCA and T. Geddes Grant

On Thursday, December 19, 2013 the Jamaica Civil Service Association hosted a Christmas Sales Day in partnership with T. Geddes Grant. Items on sale included Grocery, Pharmaceutical and Agro Products. The event was held in the JCSA’s Car Park, 10 Caledonia Avenue, Kingston 5 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:30p.m.

For further queries or clarifica-

tion, please contact JCSA Repre-

sentatives, Mrs. Sharolee Harvey

-Anderson (ext. 5531) or Ms.

Annmarie Tulloch (ext. 5663)

The Stork Has Arrived!

Dwight Moore (seated left), CEO KIA Motors, and O'Neil Grant,

president of the Jamaica Civil

Service Association (JCSA), sign a five-year Memorandum of

Understanding at KIA Looking

on are JCSA representatives (from left): Sharon Anderson,

Claudette Parker, Delmares

White, Techa Clarke-Griffiths, Chelsea Shellie-Vernon, and

Robert Chung, first VP.

KIA Motors and the Jamaica Civil Service Association (JCSA) sign 5-year MOU

Congratulations to Damion and Alecia Bryan on

the birth of their son Israel Bryan. Born: Octo-

ber 29, 2013 @ 4:03 pm. - Weight: 8.3 lbs & 54

centimeters in length

Congratulations to Senior Public Relations Offi-

cer, Damian Wilson, and his wife Fiona, who

gave birth to Blake Christian Wilson, January

14, 2014 at 2:35 am, weighing in at 7.5 lbs.

Congrats to Simonea Denton who welcomed

Joshua Ameer on January 10, 2014 -

weight 7.6 lbs