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December 01, 2007
Cultural and Sports Icons Honoured
By: Elizabeth Smith
Photography By: Milton Raynor
On Tuesday November 27, 2007, under the distinguished patronage of Jamaica's Prime Minister, the Honourable Bruce Golding and in association with the Caribbean community, many of Jamaica's stalwart sports and cultural 'Hall of Famers' were honoured.
The star studded occasion held at The Talk of The Town - Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, was the 9th annual Caribbean Hall of Fame Awards for Excellence; the Caribbean development for the arts, sports and culture. Produced by Garnett M. Reid, the evening went off with a bang, as the full spectrum of the Caribbean cultural experience was represented.
Children of the Drums opened up with a warm rhythmic welcome to all, as their drumming presentation filled the air with sounds of the motherland’s cultural core, forcing reflection of the African ancestry shared by Jamaicans. Jamaica's Constabulary Band belted out the National Anthem and the Tivoli Dancers redefined the meaning of nimble with their sprightly presentation.
Despite speaking eloquently, with expressions of great admiration for Jamaica, that he likened to his land of birth - Ghana, the keynote speaker, Dr Kwame Boafo ended up overdoing it. "So long, so long," the Chinese Ambassador was heard saying while the crowd gently edged the Ghanian Director of UNESCO away from the microphone with clapping that implied – we have had enough.
Showcasing the impressive list of inductees was definitely the highlight or meaning for the evening and show hosts, Derrick Wilkes and Dahlia Harris effectively made their introductions. Inductees included gospel sensation Judy Mowatt, reggae crooner, Ritchie Stephens, long time hitmaker - Bob Andy and sports stars like, Asafa Powell, Usain Bolt, and Sherone Simpson.
In her role as spokesperson for the absent Prime Minister, the Honourable Babsy Grange spoke on the importance of arts for a well rounded society. She promised a 2008 festival season that will be like none before it saying, "It will be more vibrant than any Jamaica has ever seen."
Heather Cummings, AJ Brown, Richie Stephens and the newly resurrected voice of former judge, Carol Gonzales, rounded off the evening with well received musical presentations.
