1) Professor Wayne Mclaughlin - Professor UWI, Mona
2) Mentorship Programme - Launch on March 20, 2010
3) Florida Chapter Website.
4) New York Dinner/Dance Cruise July 24th. 2010
5) ROSA General Meeting - April 24, 2010
6) Hanover Seafood Festival Rescheduled
Articles
1) Copy of UWI.MONA announcement in the Sunday Gleaner of April 4, 2010
The University of the West Indies Mona
Congratulates
Professor
Wayne Mclaughlin,
Senior Lecturer in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, and Director of Caribbean Genetics (Carigen)
on his promotion to the rank of
Professor
Dr. McLaughlin holds the Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Biology from the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry from The University of the West Indies, Mona. He also has post-graduate training and experience in Forensic DNA analysis and the Interpretation of DNA mixtures and statistical analysis, as well as project implementation and management.
Professor Mclaughlin is an accomplished molecular biologist who has developed a diverse and productive research programme that Is focused on molecular plant pathology issues. He has carried out pioneering research on the molecular characterization of whitefly-transmitted geminiviruses infecting plants such as the common bean, pepper and tomato. Of particular note was the identification of the introduced Tomato yellow leaf curl virus and the Tomato dwarf leaf curl virus, as the cause of a leaf curl and dwarfing disease of tomato.
Dr. Mclaughlin has also worked on lethal yellowing of coconut which has devastated certain trees in the Caribbean, including Jamaica. Results of these works have contributed to new knowledge about viruses and bacteria affecting important crops in the region. Additionally, his research led to the identification of a strain of Pseudomonas and Bacillus which protect Scotch Bonnet peppers from diseases caused by Tobacco Etch Virus. Work Is now in progress to identify the mechanism by which the pathogens induce resistance to the virus. He has published over 30 original and review papers in local, regional and international journals.
Professor Mclaughlin has been instrumental in developing and implementing undergraduate curricula and graduate research in the areas of molecular biology and biotechnology, and, more recently in forensic science. In 2005, he established Caribbean Genetics (CARIGEN), the first independent forensic DNA laboratory in the Caribbean to provide expert witness and DNA analysis to the legal profession in both civil and criminal cases. Since then, he has served as expert witness in several criminal cases and the unit has provided services to both local and regional courts. Professor Mclaughlin was also the forensic DNA expert witness in the landmark case R vs. Stafford Webb for rape (2006). Genetic studies are also underway in Diabetes Mellitus, Autism, HIV/AIDS, the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with Hepatitis B and C and the susceptibility of Jamaican women in Breast Cancer.
He has received a number of awards, including two Fulbright Awards, the Scientific Council Award for Best Scientific Performance in 1982 and 1987 and the Silver Musgrave Medal in 2001 for outstanding merit in the field of Science.
Professor Mclaughlin is a Member of several societies and boards, including the American Phytopathological Society, the Jamaica Society for Agricultural Sciences, the Coconut Industry Board and Seprod Limited. He is a Member of the editorial committee of the Jamaica Journal and has also served as reviewer for local, regional and international journals. He is also the Deputy Chairman of the Biosafety Committee of the National Commission of Science and Technology and a member of the CARICOM Biotechnology Working Group.
ROSA too congratulates Dr. Mclaughlin on his promotion to the rank of Professor at the University of the West Indies Mona and wishes him continued success in his endeavours.
2) ROSA/ Seymour Panton Mentorship Centre at Fort Charlotte (Long Barracks) Campus:
Dedication Service and Launch of the Mentorship Programme -- Old student on Campus
On Saturday morning, March 20. 2010, Rev. Glenroy Clarke, the Chaplain of his alma mater, Rusea’s High School (RHS), conducted the service of dedication in the Seymour Panton Mentorship Centre on the Fort Charlotte Campus. In attendance were members and friends of the Rusea’s Old Students’ Association (ROSA), RHS students, teachers, Mrs. Kelly-Heath, Mrs. N. Clarke, Mrs. M. Coleman, Miss D. Chang and Mr. J. Francis.
The programme began with the introduction by Miss Pauline McKenzie, 2nd Vice President of ROSA, following which Rev. Clarke made a motivating appeal emphasizing the importance of mentoring, of giving back to help those in need of a little extra attention or a timely word of encouragement which ROSA is working to provide at RHS. He recalled a personal experience during his studies in Scotland which demonstrated that “when one door is closed, many more are opened”. He prayed for God’s blessings on the building and encouraged the audience to continue their selfless efforts of which the Mentorship Centre was tangible evidence.
Next, Mr. Justice Seymour Panton, President of the Court of Appeal, expressed his appreciation for the recognition accorded him by ROSA in naming the centre in his honour. He reminded the gathering pointedly, that coming from humble circumstances was not an obstacle to being a success in life or in any worthwhile career. He thanked his wife, Maxine; brother Noel, and his friends for their years of support, now being shown by the group present, namely; Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Pearson, Mr.& Mrs. Kingsley Lowe, Mr. Dan Richards, Mr. Mark Alexander, Dr. & Mrs. Eric Norton, Mrs. Stephanie Mair. They had journeyed from Kingston that very morning, some having made a similar trip on the 20th February to attend the ceremony formally opening and naming the centre.
Mrs. June Thompson, Principal of RHS, then emphasized the benefits of mentoring and lauded the ROSA international community for providing a centre for conducting the sessions and an area for musical pursuits at the campus.
Mr. Lloyd Tomlinson, President of ROSA, thanked the audience and Rev. Clarke and urged them to continue their support of the Centre financially and by volunteering their time regularly. He introduced the members of ROSA from Kingston, namely, Miss Pauline McKenzie, 2nd Vice President; Mrs. Evelyn Calvert-Frazer; Immediate Past President; Mrs. Evadney Wilson, Secretary; Mr. Canute Grant, Asst. Treasurer; and Mrs. Margaret Morris, former Secretary. Mr. Albert Morris, a prominent member of the Credit Union movement in Kingston was also present. Mr. Tomlinson then announced the launching of the Old Student on Campus Mentorship Programme.
Justice Panton commenced the first mentoring session at the centre with ten students. A second group of nine was led by Mr. Anthony Pearson, Attorney at Law.
At the successful completion of the sessions a student from each group moved a vote of thanks. Mr. Oshane Robinson, Head Boy, and Miss Melonie Taylor expressed the groups’ appreciation for the words of wisdom received from the mentors, for the interest shown by ROSA and for its contribution to school life.
The event ended with the serving of refreshments.
ROSA Secretariat Tel; 876 929 1543: Mail to; 28 Lancaster Rd., Kingston 10: e.mail to
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Formal Opening
The building erected by the Rusea’s Old Students’ Association to house the Seymour Panton Mentorship Centre was officially opened on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at the Rusea’s High School (RHS) Fort Charlotte Campus. Honourable Rudyard Spencer, Minister of Health was the Guest Speaker and he performed the cutting of the ribbon, assisted by Mrs. June Thompson, Principal of Rusea’s High School. The Minister recalled working in Lucea many years ago and was warmly greeted by associates from that period.
During the function chaired by Mr. Lloyd Tomlinson, President of ROSA, there were speeches by Dr. David Stair, Custos of Hanover; Mr. Lloyd Hill, His Worship, the Mayor; Honourable Ian Hales, Member of Parliament; Most Honourable Prof. Sir Kenneth Hall, former Governor General; and Mr. Denton Campbell, Chairman of the School Board. A topical and entertaining poem delivered by a student of RHS was loudly applauded. Dr. Stair was presented with a framed certificate awarding him the status of Honorary Member of the Rusea’s Old Students’ Association.
In attendance from Kingston were the President of the Court of Appeal, Mr. Justice Panton and Mrs. Panton, accompanied by members of the ROSA Executive Board, namely, Miss Pauline McKenzie (2nd V.P), Mrs. Iolyn Brissett-Donald, Mr. Richard Johnson, (PRO), and Mr. Canute Grant JP. Also, ROSA members Miss Denise Johnson, Miss Pamella Blackhall, Mr. Henry Hall and, from ROSA Canada, Mrs. Annette Driedger. Other guests included Councillor Lloyd Johnson JP and Miss Nerris Hawthorne, both members of the school board, Mr. Winston Stair, teachers and students of RHS. Close friends and other members of the Panton family were also present, including Mr. Noel Panton, Mr. & Mrs. Keith Wedderburn, Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Pearson, Mr. & Mrs. Kingsley Lowe, Mr. & Mrs. Dan Richards, Mr. Mark Alexander and Dr. Derrick Harvey.
Mr. Justice Panton, a former Head Boy and a former President of ROSA for ten years, who has been a source of inspiration for the alumni, unveiled the sign naming the building in recognition of his contributions to RHS, his consistent presence at RHS annual events, his efforts as a reliable supporter of ROSA activities and personal achievements in his chosen field and on a national level.
One of two plaques displayed at the entrance to the building attests to the part played by ROSA and the chapters in New York and Canada in the construction of the building. The other plaque serves to recognize individuals for their significant contributions to the successful completion of the project, naming The Most Honourable Prof. Sir Kenneth Hall, The Most Honourable Percival Patterson, The Most Honourable Errald Miller, Mrs. Jenneth Wong Chew Onn, Mr. Warrington Williams, Dr. Lloyd Quarrie & Mrs. Vinnette Quarrie and Elva Mullings/ ToolsHardware. Other persons made donations for the privilege of “opening” doors and windows in the building.
The Mentorship Centre consists of an office, kitchenette and bathroom. Contributions are being sought to complete the furnishing of the Centre. The larger part of the building is an open area which has been formally handed over to the school for drama and musical appreciation classes.
The Mentorship Programme – Old Student on Campus
Old students express their wish through the ROSA secretariat to visit the school to interact with students in their area of interest and expertise. This can be done by phone, email, website or personal contact.
ROSA Secretariat: Co-ordinate with the school and set up visits and confirm with old student.
Visit takes place and old student generates visit report outlining activities covered and follow up areas if any. These will be posted on the website.
ROSA: Follow up on each visit.
ROSA Secretariat Tel; 876 929 1543: Mail to; 28 Lancaster Rd., Kingston 10: e.mail to
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3) ROSA Florida.
The Chapter, lead by the President Ms. Judith Hinds, has launched a website at www.rosafl.org and contact e.mail address is
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. The support of Ruseans in Florida is needed to build on this renewed effort.
4) ROSA NEW YORK
The ROSA NewYork Chapter celebrates 233rd Anniversary of Rusea's High School with a Dinner Dance Cruise aboard Marco Polo's Jewel on Saturday, July 24, 2010 from the dock at One World's Fair Marina (Pier One), Flushing, New York. (Directly opposite Shea Stadium - Citifield). Boarding 6:00 p.m. Sailing 6:30 p.m. SHARP! Attire: Semi-Formal. Music by: DJ Fernando. Donation: $65.00 per person which includes a 3 course Buffet. Cash Bar. Free Parking.
ROSA Annual General Meeting was held on Saturday April 24, 2010 at the General Accident Ins. Co. 58 Half Way Tree Rd. The Officers and members elected to serve on the executive for the current year are:
PresidentMr. Lloyd Tomlinson
Ist VPMiss Pauline McKenzie
2nd VPMr. Carl Stephenson
SecretaryMiss Joy Hall
Assistant SecretaryMrs. Evelyn Frazer
TreasurerMrs. Cleopatra McNab
Assistant TreasurerMrs. Theda King
Public Relations OfficerMr. Richard Johnson
Members:
Mrs. Iolyn Donald
Mrs. Ordel Brandon
Mrs. June MacFarlane
Mr. Clarence Williams
Mr. Canute Grant
6) Hanover Seafood Festival Rescheduled
The Hanover Seafood Festival being planned by ROSA has been re-scheduled for mid-year 2010. (Date being decided.) This item which has the support of major corporate entities and the blessings of the Government, will be an annual feature on the ROSA Calendar of Events.
