WESTERN BUREAU:
DESPITE EXISTING challenges in the agricultural sector, due to losses suffered by farmers and training centres as a consequence of the passage of Hurricane Ivan, Nyammins and Jammins, the stellar event on the St. James 4-H Advisory Council's calendar, is still expected to unfold in a blaze of glory.
The festival, which is being billed as an opportunity to beat the post Ivan stress, will be held at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre, Montego Bay on National Heroes' Day, Monday October 18, 2004, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
"All international studies done have proven that leisure time, properly spent among parents and children, is a leading factor that is necessary for the full development of every child," said Council Chairman, Calvin G Brown, in emphasising the family concept of the event. "In other words just providing lunch money and school fees without the necessary child/parent interactive bonding, cannot in and of itself offer a proper developmental environment for our children."
SURPASSING EXPECTATIONS
Last year the festival surpassed all expectations in terms of the number of patrons, who attended. However, despite the problems caused by Hurricane Ivan, based on the sponsorship support the event has been getting this year, the organisers are quite optimistic that this year's staging, which is expected to emphasise the 4-H motto of, 'Making The Best Better', will be much bigger.
This year's show will have approximately eighty booths. Many will showcase the range of culinary delights that Jamaica is well known for. Others will have horticulture, art, craft and information on areas that are of national importance. Included among these are booths from the Narcotics Division of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Institute of Jamaica, the HIV/STD Control Programme, the Montego Bay Marine Park, Forestry, Heart Academies and the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA).
The entertainment side of the event promises to be a glamorous affair with veteran singer Freddie McGregor headlining the secular segment and Shirley Willis, former lead singer of The Grace Thrillers, will spearhead the gospel side. The line-up also includes fellow singers Peter Lloyd and Taniesha Lewis and deejays Satta Ranks and Mikey Ranks. Gumption Band will provide backing services for McGreggor while the versatile Fabulous Five Incorporated will support the other acts.
The crowning of Mr. and Ms. 4-H Contest, which has become a 'staple' of 'Nyammins and Jammins' will be among a range of attractions, which will include bounce-a-bout, merry-go-round, simulator, titanic, tombola as well as grab bag, are some of the many offerings.
