Following an avalanche of floods, fierce winds from a category four hurricane, which caused loss of lives and agriculture, the peril named Beryl is now history and Jamaicans are seeing the sun rise again.
As a matter of fact, resilient reggae music lovers are now prepping for seven tumultuous days of celebration of their home-grown genre.
Traditionally on the island after a death there’s a Nine Night period of grieving the deceased.
Reggae Sumfest follows the practice offering one week of island revelry beginning July 14 with a Family Fun Day at Catherine Hall in Montego Bay.
A potpourri of celebratory fun, food, fashion, beach parties and music follows from then to resurrect the mirth that is typically Jamaican.
Slated for the western parish of St. James, the annual billed the ‘Crown Jewel of Jamaican Music Festivals’ plan to re-energize the nation recently bombarded by the Caribbean phenomenon.
With a street dance scheduled, an all-white party, and global sound-clash fits the bill, and by July 18 the Sumfest Rumfest Blitz will deliver 100 proof intoxicating experiences.
However, the hallmark western Jamaica treat speeds to high gear on July 19 & 20 when two nights of marathon reggae presentations serve heavy doses of reggae and dancehall interpretations from Capleton, Beres Hammond, Nigy Boy, Anthony B and a long list of stalwarts of the unique genre.
Rhythm & blues/pop icon Babyface Edmonds will likely add foreign element to the star-studded attraction on Night 2.
Ironically, early in his career Babyface was managed by Jamaican super negotiator Don Taylor who also represented Robert Nesta Marley.
Guaranteed, the vibrant celebration of reggae music and Jamaican culture will also offer mall booths brimming with original clothing, jewelry, ceramics made by artisans.
Hopefully, Beryl or any future high category storms will steer clear of the island readying to mark their 62nd anniversary of Independence.
BARRELS FOR BERYL
The title may be misleading but in fact it might catch the attention of generous citizens willing to donate to the victims of the treacherous hurricane named Beryl, which recently devastated the Eastern Caribbean.
Until July 31 a relief drive for Union Island, St. Vincent & The Grenadines, Carriacou, Bequia, Grenada, Petit Martinique will accept water, essential medicine and first aid, pillows and sleeping blankets, non-perishable and canned goods, flashlight and batteries, soap powder, diapers, wipes and formula, tarpaulin tents, toiletries and hygiene kits.
Donation sites are Downstate Medical Center 450 Clarkson Ave. God’s Battalion of Prayer, 780 Schnectady Ave. Christ Ambassador Ministries, 5007 Beverly Road, Bk Community Board 17, 4112 Farragut Road and Council District Office 45, 1434 Flatbush Ave. For more info. Please email selbyvillas@gmail.com
Catch You On The Inside!
