Chamber praises national award winners

THE Chamber of Commerce has singled out two business executives for special mention, who received national awards. In congratulating Malcolm Jones and Arthur Lok Jack, the Chamber noted they received their awards “for their lifelong contributions to the spheres of business and national economic development.” According to the Chamber, which congratulated all awardees, the men were honoured for their selfless deeds and service to country, which should serve as an insipration to the nation. Both Jones and Lok Jack received the Chaconia Medal (gold). Jones is executive chairman of National Petroleum Company, while Lok Jack is chairman of Associated Brands.

The two companies have been described as valuable, longstanding members of the Chamber. Three outstanding young people — George Bovell III, Veera Bhajan and Rhonda Charles — were also praised by the Chamber. Bovell III became the first athlete from the English-speaking Caribbean to receive an Olympic medal in swimming. He received a bronze medal in the 200 metre individual medley at the recently concluded Athens Games in Greece. He was awarded a Chaconia Medal (gold). Bhajan received the Humming Bird Medal (silver) for her achievement in securing seven distinctions in the CXC examinations (Ordinary Level) even though she was born without arms. Charles also received a Humming Bird Medal (silver) for galantry displayed when she risked her life to rescue a 76-year-old blind woman from a burning building.