Janet Silvera, Gleaner WriterWESTERN BUREAU:
The RJR Communications Group climaxed its Western Invasion last Saturday night when advertisers and socialites were feted in the ballroom of the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort and Spa, Montego Bay.
Inclement weather, damp clothing and soaking hairdos did not prevent the committed group of Montegonians who turned out for the fabulous occasion.
It was a night to rub shoulders with the communication group's big-wigs, including Television Jamaica's general manager, Kay Osborne and the group's directors Yvonne Wilks, Gary Allen, Stephen Legister and Rupert Hartley.
"It is your support that has caused RJR to be in its 55th year," was the expression of thanks that resonated from Gary Allen, who remarked that the last time the group invaded the western city they had rights issues of $258 million to contend with.
"I am pleased to announce that we have cleared $195 million in debt and at the end of 2004 earned $127 million compared to $117 million in 2003."
The group's chief executive officer, Lester Spaulding was absent due to illness, but emcees Paula Ann Porter and Don Topping, performers Marlene Stephenson Dalley, Ralston McKenzie, Garrett Beckford and Rodney Campbell made his organisation proud, showcasing the immense talent that exists at the media house.
profit-making celebration
RJR's celebration of profit-making was overly apparent in the delectable bill of fare presented to the dedicated ones who have over the years ensured their indisputable popularity in the west.
The Montego Bay Co-operative Credit Union, Greenwood Hardware, Citadel Insurance Company, Cornwall Gardens, Adwa, Eden Gardens, Native Restaurant, Faith Temple, El Greco Resort and Doctor's Cave Bathing Club, were all recognised for their continued support.
And it came as no surprise when they (RJR) were rewarded for their loyalty to the western city when businesswoman Hazel Dalley presented them with a plaque for outstanding service.
Key persons who have played a pivotal role in the life of the communications group, Shallman Scott, Lloyd B. Smith and Clinton Pickering and Marlene Stephenson Dalley were all commended. "We could not have had any of this without their support," said Mr. Allen.
The ones who turned out for the affair included Joe Hylton, Shernett Robinson, Fred Smith, Madgelyn Flake, William Craig, Judge Glen Brown, Latoya Johnson, Allen Vanriel, Holford Plummer, Angella Mitchell, Member of Parliament Clive Mullings, Jaime and Camille Delgado, Anthony Brown, Michelle Cummings, Neville Bell, Allan Magnus, Dorraine Samuels, Robert and Beverly Russell and Custos Clarence Nelson.
