In Memory of Michael Jackson- The Gloved One Who Visited Jamaica
It was 1975; I was 13 years old and in third form at St. Andrew High School for Girls, when I heard the news that Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 were coming to Kingston to perform. My mother, a strict Pentecostal Christian, forbade my sisters and I to play secular music or to dance. Yet, I could not help watching Michael Jackson while she was at church, which was several nights per week.

Food Shopping in Jamaica
Food shopping in Jamaica, while having some resemblance to the American experience, can be challenging at times. The Jamaican supermarkets are laid out with aisles of packaged foods and general merchandise similar to the US. Around the perimeter of the interior is the meat, dairy and produce sections. Glaringly absent is the ever popular and ever busy deli department. The only cold cuts I have seen come in blister packs and a very limited variety.

Back in the Old Days, Agriculture Was King in Jamaica
Before bauxite was discovered and mined, before Jamaica had a "financial sector," before various governments sold the island’s birthright to attract screwdriver industries and garment-industry sweatshops, Jamaicans made their living mostly from the land. As I recall, it wasn’t easy. I wonder what became of all that hard work? How did it change? And who let it happen? I suppose it’s useless to point fingers now. I can only cheer the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries on and wish him luck in reviving the island's aricultural tradition.

In Real Life, as in Fiction, Jamaica's Future Depends on Agriculture, Not Bauxite
In my book, "Hill-an’-Gully Rider," I have the Prime Minister resisting the efforts of bauxite companies to invade his fictional Caribbean island. Despite the wealthy companies’ efforts – including political machinations and even violence – the Prime Minister succeeds in protecting the island and eventually reaps great rewards through pursuing a policy of environmental preservation and innovation.

Health Care in Jamaica
Quality medical care in Jamaica is one of the prime concerns of many of my readers. Between my wife and I, we have had seven years of experiences with doctors and other medical facilities in the Montego Bay area. We have found the quality of medical care to be quite adequate, although not perfect. Considering this Third World country boasts over 1,000 people above the age of 100 one would have to say that the medical care throughout the island is more than adequate. 

Caribbean Country Profiles
Every June we celebrate Caribbean American Heritage month. This month we profile all the Caribbean countries with their rich heritage, people and culture.

Meet the Jamaicans.com Writers
This month we are having a "Meet the Jamaicans.com Writers" discussion in our forums. Each writer will participate in discussions. Post your questions and chat with your favorite Jamaicans.com Writer during the month of May in our forums.