Thursday, January 28, 2010

Almost a week removed from last Saturday night’s Merritone, MLK and Memories fete in New York, the organizers are still being showered with kudos for their fantastic first foray into fund-raising.

The twin dance floors, packed to capacity, rocked to the music all night long. Patrons were transported back in time by the vintage fare of the Jamaica-based Merritone featuring Winston Blake and New York-based Chappie’s Stateside sound systems.

     (L-R) Winston (Merritone) Blake, Avril Clement, Ian Martin, Janet Grant Scott Sheryl Napier,Ruperta

              Duncan Gordon, Charles Ellis, Leighton Young, Aston Abijah Reid and Leonard Mason whoop

              it up  at the inaugural Merritone MLK & Memories fete last Saturday night

But it was not just the music which ensured an unforgettable experience.  The ambiance of the tastefully decorated restaurant–cum-dance hall, which was swathed in white, offset by dashes of green and gold, added to the warmth of the memorable occasion. Team members strategically stood near the entrance to welcome patrons, and other members mingled with the revelers to ensure they were having a good time. The group went all out to create a favorable first impression. And that it did.

Alumni, Friends and other patrons were generous in their praises for the well planned and executed event.

Midway through the fete, the music was briefly interrupted as members of the committee were introduced by MC Michael Caballero while  convener, Leonard Mason took the microphone to outline the aim and focus of the new group.                                             

In a brief ceremony, the five surviving founding members of the Excelsior Alumni Association (USA), Inc–Gilbert Scarlett, Frank Powell, Hyacinth Dorothy Ramsey, Warren Lee Watts and Louis McGann-were presented with commemorative plaques in recognition of their contribution to the organization. 

Dorothy Ramsey,(photo), who accepted the awards on behalf of the pioneers, thanked the Excelsior Foundation for Excellence for recognizing her and her peers in such a public way and reiterated her commitment to the Excelsior Alumni Association that she has served for more than 40 years.

During the ceremony, the MC also made an appeal for contribution to the Haiti relief effort. Proceeds will help to provide support following the horrific human tragedy brought by the recent devastating earthquake in that Caribbean neighbor.

Early Sunday morning as weary patrons staggered into the dawn after a hard night of partying, they were almost unanimous in their praises for what was a party with a difference hosted by The Excelsior Foundation for Excellence.