Fifteen Years of Service: Emerald Isle Creative Vibes 2016 Appreciation Awards Was Top Class

Fifteen Years of Service: Emerald Isle Creative Vibes 2016 Appreciation Awards Was Top Class
Author

Jeevan A. Robinson (MNI Alive Media

Release Date

Thursday, May 12, 2016

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In 2002 four persons gathered in Cholo’s Bakery right here in New York City for the sole purpose of having a discussion on how best they can pool resources to offer any mode of assistance to their homeland Montserrat and her people. From that creative meeting of the minds, the Emerald Isle Creative Vibes Group was given birth.

From then to now, the group has grown and has made an indelible imprint within the Montserrat community both here in New York, and also by their charitable contributions to various areas of need back on the island itself.

On Sunday Dec 4th 2016, the Emerald Isle Creative Vibes hosted their annual Appreciation Dinner and Awards in the Bronx, New York, at the plush Maestro’s Banqueting Hall.

This is MNI Alive Media’s third year of being a media partner for this event, and gathering from our previous two experiences, we attended this event with an air of enthusiasm and expectation of great things – that has been the staple presentation from this group each year they have hosted their Awards and Dinner.

The evening was a show of many wonderful attributes. It takes a keen eye and attention to detail to host events such as these without any major hiccups, with everything falling into its rightful place, as it should. Most organisations hire event planners to excuse themselves from such a hassle, but instead, here it is that from with the talent pool of the group members of the Emerald Isle Creative Vibes, they joined forces and worked as a team to ensure the event came off to a success. Again, such dedication to professionalism is outstanding.

The afternoon’s proceedings began with the welcome and introduction of guests. Then, the beautiful Ayanna Irish, performed the National Song of Montserrat to adoration and applause. The event’s Invocation was presented by Ms Gwendolyn Fenton; with the Master of Ceremonies Mr Ronald Allen, then introducing Chairman Al Gerald, for his opening remarks. {module_webapps id="41638" filter="item" itemId="14194136"}

The desire to recognise the good within humanity, and more specifically, to salute those that have given back to the community is a trait that helps to bind societies into a more cohesive unit – all working towards the common goal of a more harmonious existence. I wanted to know what inspires this grouping of people called the Emerald Isle Creative Vibes, to come together and do what they have been doing yearly, since their inception. I spoke briefly with the Chairman of the Organisation, Mr Al Gerald, who engaged me for a few moments on what they are about as a Group, and the reason for the Annual Awards and Dinner. Listen below as Mr Gerald shares his thoughts.

The inclusive nature of the Organisation is one that has also been representative over the years. This year, they not only recognised and awarded four deserving individuals of Montserrat Heritage, but also too, the Guest of Honour for the evening was Mr Soloman Gardner, a Jamaican, who is President of the Wembley Athletic Club.

The persons Awarded included:

Maureen Lee-Harrigan in appreciation of her achievements as a Montserratian and a former member of the club;

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Also awarded was Mr Jefferson L. Bramble in appreciation of his accomplishments as a Mentor Pilot and Entrepreneur;

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Another award went to Mr Shaun Henry in appreciation of his achievements as a Flight Instructor and Airline Pilot;

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The final award of the night was presented to Mrs Vera E. Weekes in appreciation of her outstanding achievements as an Educator and Humanitarian;

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The Premier of Montserrat, Donaldson Romeo, was also most gracious, as he sent along a congratulatory message for the group; making note of their “invaluable contribution to the people of Montserrat over the past 15 years.”

The Premier also went on to mention that it was commendable that each year; “this organisation has been able to host an Appreciation Dinner which includes an Awards Ceremony highlighting the achievements of Montserratians.”

To have received such high praise from the Leader of Government’s business on Montserrat is further testament to the influence the Emerald Isle Creative Vibes Group has had on both shores where Montserrat’s people reside – both in the United States and on the island itself.

Patrons last night were treated to a good example of what community should be about. People dressed immaculately; posed for photos with friends and family throughout the venue; they were also treated to a sumptuous dinner; and capped off the night with dancing and revelry provided by the Breakaway Brass Band.

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In totality, The Emerald Isle Creative Vibes have done themselves and the community in which they serve proud once more. Fifteen years of giving back, one can only hope will transform into many more years of service and blessings for the Groups.


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A job well done for 2016 by all the Members!

Click here for photo album of event: Part 1

Click here for photo album of event: Part 2

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