THE EDITOR, Sir:
I AM the first to admit that I am certifiably "car crazy". This essentially means that I love everything about cars from engine technology to body styling, paint technology, to wheels and tyre advancements. It's only fitting that I would be attracted to an event advertised on radio and on flyers called "Hot Wheels 2004".
Hot Wheels was scheduled and occurred on Sunday, July 18, 2004. I cleaned up my car and departed with my son in high anticipation for what I expected to be an outstanding display. The radio ad stated that gates would open at noon so I figured 1:30 p.m. would be a good time to get there. Upon my arrival utter disappointment overcame me, there were no vehicles registered to any of the 8 categories. Present were used vehicles displayed by a few of our more popular Used Car Dealers, and some vehicles owned by the event planner.
A glimmer of hope became apparent at about 4:00 p.m. when I could count about 8 fascinating vehicles. The motor cycles came at about 4:45p.m. Considering the planned sequence of events for the day should be the judging of vehicles and awards per category, (same for motor cycles), fashion show and after party, I expected the event would probably end at 11:00p.m.
To be frank after spending $500 for myself and $100 for my son to gain access, I felt distress rather than satisfaction and I felt like I got less than my money's worth. At 5:15 p.m. when things seemed to be taking shape and more demonstration vehicles started rolling in my son and I were totally exhausted and prepared to take our leave.
I asked the organiser Kolors & Concepts at about 2:30p.m. "where are the cars, is this it?" The response was, "no man we have lots of cars registered, them soon come". The whole "soon come" syndrome and the lack of understanding that soon come is not displayed on any watch is something that the Jamaican society with hopes of competing in a highly competitive world economy will have to overcome. Is there any wonder that we have ended with the stigma 'Jamaica Time'.
I am etc
CHRISTOPHER A.
WALKER
cawalker27@hotmail.com
