New York…It’s fast approaching the time of year again when the people of the island of Jamaica celebrate that nation’s Independence. And (not to be left out) the Diaspora will join in that celebration. As such, the splendor of the colors, music, vibes and fabulous folk of the island will be on full display in the Ballroom of the New York Hilton Hotel on Saturday August 17, when the Jamaica Independence Celebration Foundation Inc (JICFI) of New York presents the annual Anniversary Independence Ball.
Coming off a record setting 50th Anniversary of Independence Ball where Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Most Honorable Portia Simpson-Miller, ON, was the guest speaker, the stage is set for a marvelous 51st. The theme is “Celebrating Jamaica,” and is under the patronage of the Consul General of Jamaica to New York, Herman G. LaMont. Special guest will be His Excellency, Professor Stephen C. Vasciannie, Ambassador of Jamaica to the United States of America. The Grand Marshall of the event is Mr. Sam Wright of Quality Auto Mall and Ford Credit.
“I look forward to welcoming my fellow Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica to our 51st Independence Anniversary Gala. I salute the honorees for their outstanding contribution to the community and their accomplishments in their respective fields. They have made us proud to be Jamaican. We need your support, so come, celebrate with us and I promise a spectacular evening," said Paulette Willoughby, Foundation Chair.
The Mistress of Ceremony for this year’s event is noted actress and singer, Sheryl-Lee Ralph, who is of Jamaican heritage. Honorees are Ms. Heather Foster, Office of Public Engagement, The White House; Dr. Answorth A. Allen, Orthopedic Surgeon and Irie Jam Media.
These festivities are not just driven by the need to `party’ but also encompass a mission of service and charity; deeply rooted in supporting the causes and many needs across the Island and Diaspora. Aid has been given to several organizations among them; New York City Rescue Mission, Good Shepherd Foundation, Early Childhood Foundation, Ward Theatre Foundation, Boys’ Town Foundation, Alpha Boys’ House, American Foundation of the University of the West Indies (AFUWI), American Cancer Society, Mission for the Poor and Mustard Seed Communities.
Proceeds from this year’s event will provide full scholarships for needy students to attend the University of the West Indies and support an early childhood basic school. A silent auction will offer exciting packages. Guests are being asked to come prepared to bid.
Entertainment will be provided by the Fabulous Five Band. Guests can expect a sumptuous fare of Jamaican entrees and delicacies.
Sponsors for the evening are, Quality Auto Mall, Ford Motor Credit, Ford Motor Company, Caribbean Food Delights (Royal Caribbean Bakery), Grace Foods USA, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill, Gleaner Company USA, Tower Isle's Frozen Foods, Carib News, Jet Blue, VP Records and Phoenix Beverages.
Tickets are two hundred dollars, ($200) per person and are available at the Jamaican Consulate, VP Records and Royal Caribbean Bakery.
For more information JICFI may be reached at 631-374-7811, or 718-527-3484; email psmartwillo@optonline.net or visit http://www.jicfi.org.
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