The 'birthday boy' gets a birthday hug from Marilyn Bennett.
Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter
IN THE cricket game of life, businessman John Ellis has reached the half century mark.
The proprietor of Alphon Enterprises Limited hosted a dinner/dance party at his home last Saturday night to celebrate the milestone.
In making the trip up the winding Chancery Hall Estate road, a few guests were lost en route.
But that didn't stop family, friends, business colleagues and Kiwanians (he's a former president of the Kiwanis Club of East Kingston and Port Royal) from coming out to celebrate with Mr. Ellis, wife Claudette and their three sons Andrew, Kirk and Mark.
PAST THE STRUGGLES
He related how after successful jobs, he wanted to try being his own boss. It's been a bit of a struggle but he's happy to see his business going well.
"It's always been my dream to have my own business. There were hard times like the financial crisis of the early '90s but we've managed to survive," he said.
Mr. Ellis has remained humble despite the success, and has tried giving back to the Kingston 20 area where his businesses are located.
"If you can help others, then you should make every effort," he reasons.
This was a main reason why he joined the service organisation given the club's emphasis on youth development.
HALF-WAY POINT
He considers himself somewhat fortunate to be where he is, but at age 50, he feels he's at the half-way point; literally and figuratively.
"The cost of funding a business is high, but I hope to strive for meaningful growth in future," he stated.
Although it was Ellis' party his guests got all the goodies.
The bar was never out of your favourite beverage. Gladdy from the Wild Bunch kept everybody grooving with his selections. Guests were doing The hustle, jamming to soca, wining to dancehall and just moving to whatever he spun from the board.
Add a delectable dinner and a well-stocked bar and this party was indeed a golden affair.
