GREAT THINGS BY A GREAT NATION

by Latoya Ellis
(Portmore, St Catherine, Jamaica)

Jamaica50 Entry #27 -GREAT THINGS BY A GREAT NATION

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In a year when we are said to be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Jamaica's independence, It is only a pity we have quite a few unfortunate events that happened, but we still have a great deal to be thankful for. We have achieved so much in the last 50 years, and it is my honour to remind our visitors of some of them.


GREAT THINGS:


Jamaica has become one of the leading tourist destinations as we have some of the finest hotels, great customer service, great attractions, friendly people, THE BEST food, and of course THE BEST BEACHES. Your first experience here will definitely not be your last.

In the year 1963, Jamaican Carol Joan Crawford was chosen Miss World, the first Jamaican to be awarded this title.

April 21, 1966 His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie, Emperor of Ethiopia arrived in Jamaica for a 3 days state visit.

In 1968 Air Jamaica was established

1986 - Mother Theresa of India visited Jamaica

1991 - Nelson Mandela visited for 2 days

1998 - The Reggae Boyz were the first English Speaking Caribbean to qualify for the World Cup.

2003 - Emancipation Park was created

2009 - Usain Bolt broke the world record and become the fastest man on earth, also gaining 56 Olympic medals and 89 medals at the World Championships in the last 50 years.We are now anticipating a 1-2-3 at this year's Olympic game with favourites Asafa Powell, Yohan Blake and Usain Bolt in the line up for the men's 100m - We also have other favourites like Veronica Campbel-Brown, Shelly-Ann Fraser, Melaine Walker, and of course others. Don't be surprised if this year becomes the MOST memourable of all Olympic years for Jamaica, well that's my wish.



NOT SO GREAT THINGS:

2012 - Politicians (PNP Councillors) face questions about lotto scam - A very serious issue that is damaging the image of Jamaica. If they are guilty they should be punished to let others know they are not above the law.

2012 - Member of Parliament calls another Member of Parliament a fish - been called a fish in Jamaica is interpreted to mean the person is a homosexual.

2012 - Dance hall artist Buju Banton was sentenced to 10 years in prison for drug trafficking.

2012 - Christopher "Dudus" Coke, leader of the "Shower Posse gang was given a US jail term of 23 years for drug trafficking.

But behind every storm, there must be a calm. We are known to be little but tallawah (small but strong), so we will without a doubt overcome the challenges.

That's if we put God first. Thank you.

Happy Jamaica50th!

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