The men and women of the Sandy Point Benevolent Society (SPBS) advanced their cause for the pursuit of excellence during their fourth annual awards banquet held at the prestigious Maestro's Banquet Hall in the Bronx, New York, on Saturday August 30, 2014.
The event began promptly at 9:00PM following a cocktail hour marked by the socializing and reuniting of guests.
Twelve year old Ms. Briannagh Dennehy, a rising songstress and daughter of Kittitian born Tessa Allen Dennehy, gave a stellar rendition of the national anthem of the United States of America, followed closely by Jerome Vanterpool also known as Lord Ranger, who sang the national anthem of the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
SPBS President Dr. Mervyn Richardson in his opening remarks, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the honorees who willingly accepted the organization's invitation and honor. He also thanked all in attendance for their continued support of the SPBS and reaffirmed his commitment to the service of others.
The evening was held under the patronage of Randolph Massachusetts Town Councilor, Honorable Kenrick Clifton, Esq. and Mrs. Clifton. The Councilor shared his vision for a more unified St. Kitts and Nevis and commended the work of the SPBS team. Also in attendance was the distinguished Ambassador to the USA, Jacinth Henry-Martin.
Honored for their sterling contributions to the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis in the arts, business, and community service were Seymour "Tally" Davis, Dr. Frank L. Mills, Patricia Pat Ross-Lake, Lionel "Benjax" Benjamin and Robelto "Tango" Glasgow. Their well deserved honors was witnessed by an attentive and appreciative audience of well wishers who traveled from all corners of the globe to celebrate excellence with the honorees.
Mr. Tony Hadley proved to be the consummate Master of Ceremonies for the night showing off his comedic side on the one hand while ensuring the smooth flow of the night's packed line up of entertainment on the other. The SPBS/Tony Hadley alliance proved to be a successful collaboration.
The night's entertainment line up was unquestionably exciting, from the hip, youthful voice and evident all around talent of teen sensation Briannagh Dennehy to the sharp and sassy dance moves of Miss St. Kitts and Nevis International Stacey Greene. Further entertainment was provided by songstress and musical giant Pat Ross who aced her performance ending with her signature song "My Mistakes." Lionel Benjax Benjamin also showed his musical might with his rendition of several of his songs including "The Power Lies In You" and "Have A Good Time."
Following the sumptuous dinner served up by the Maestro chefs, guests listened attentively to Dr. Frank Mills.
He spoke about the vision of the nation's first Prime Minister and the major developments that have come as a result of his vision, namely the development of the South East Peninsula. He also lauded the current leadership of Denzil L. Douglas for the development policies that he has continued with a view to set the federation on an upward trajectory.
"If there was ever a time to grow up in St. Kitts and Nevis, it's now," he declared. Dr. Mills also praised The REACH program, a St. Kitts-Nevis federal government initiative which offers a two year Grant for students to pursue higher education. The Grant provides qualified students a yearly scholarship of EC $2,000.00.
In keeping with the night's theme of "Celebrating Excellence",
Dr. Mills lauded the SPBS for its show of patriotism and for continuing the work of service for students of Sandy Point and its neighbors and ultimately the federation.
The excitement of the fourth annual banquet heightened as cameras quickly surfaced to capture the five honorees receiving their awards. Seymour "Tally" Davis, Gweneth "Pat" Ross-Lake , Lionel "Benjax" Benjamin, Robelto "Tango" Glasgow and Dr. Frank L. Mills each received awards in honour of their stellar service to others. Their work epitomizes the true meaning of selflessness.
Mingling and dancing brought the curtains down on the fourth annual SPBS banquet and awards celebrations. Guests were thoroughly entertained by a live band of musicians who all hail from the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
As the lights came on and the band played its last selection, members and well wishers of the SPBS said their goodbyes and exchanged hearty hugs and warm handshakes.
The SPBS Celebration of Excellence ended on a high note and organizers are prepared to reflect and ready themselves to host the fifth annual signature awards banquet on September 5, 2015.
Thanks to all who helped to make the 4th Annual SPBS Banquet a great success.
