Donations made in Jah Jerry's name

Mel Cooke, Gleaner Writer

Last Wednesday morning, James Haynes, son of late Skatalites guitarist Jerome 'Jah Jerry' Haynes, OD, made good on his 2013 promise to increase the donations made in his father's name.

He told those gathered at the School of Music, Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, for the Jah Jerry Inc scholarship award that the number of scholarships to students at the institution had been increased from one to two.

In addition, two computers were donated to the Jones Town Primary School.

There was the pledge of more expansion in 2015. "Next year, we will do three, maybe four scholarships," Haynes, who is president of Jah Jerry Inc, said.

One of the scholarship recipients, Elton Brown, is a repeat recipient from last year, while Carlton Jarrett is new to the programme.

Both played the guitar during the presentation, Brown said that in addition to the award, it was striking to hear Haynes speak so highly of his father. Jarrett also said thanks and pledged to work hard.

Claudia Woon-Chin of the college emphasised the difficulties which many students at the college face. Noting that the scholarships could not have gone to "two more deserving students", Woon-Chin said, "they exemplify the mix of the academics and creative arts."

Haynes underscored Jah Jerry Inc's commitment to the college, pointing out the value his late father placed on education and the development of young people. He also credited guitarist Ernie Ranglin for taking Jah Jerry "to the next level, although he had learnt from his father."

service orientation

Vaughn 'Bunny' Goodison spoke about the service orientation of the two scholarship recipients and their intention to give back to their communities.

"There are many who made it out of music and give back nothing," Goodison said.

He remembered Jah Jerry refusing, on principle, to play at a date The Skatalites had at a house of ill repute in Greenwich Town, describing him as "the calm man in The Skatalites."

Nicholeen Blackwood of Jones Town Primary said the computers "will be used to help students who need it", so they can be educated to be fit to work and gainfully participate in the society.