Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter
Mike Henry (left) and his wife Dawn chat with French Ambassador Francis Hurtut at the France National Day Reception
WITH JULY being the month for diplomatic celebrations, it was time for our friends from France to throw their own soirée.
Once again, it recalled the storming of the Bastille. Members of the 33rd Regiment of the Marine Infantry lined the driveway as guests (and all were treated like guests of honour).
Ambassador Francis Hurtut expressed pleasure that the French were becoming more influential in this part of the world. He pointed out his country's efforts to share with Jamaica, a country with which France had no cultural ties at first. He admitted the bilateral relations were still in progress, but Security Minister Dr. Peter Phillips assured that the French culture was being embraced through activities like the annual Touch Of France exhibition.
The French celebration would have been even more animated if Les Bleus had been able to win the World Cup, but c'est la vie! Guests were entertained by some lively Zouk music from right here in the Caribbean (classical music has its place, but not everybody can appreciate it!)
So, it was fine wine and fromage for the rest of a clear Friday evening.
Left:The 33rd Regiment of the French Marine Infantry marches during the National Day Reception, held at Hillcrest Avenue, St. Andrew, on Friday, July 14. Right: United States Ambassador Brenda LaGrange Johnson jokes with French Ambassador Francis Hurtut. - PHOTOS BY WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
