PORUS, Manchester:
SCORES OF persons, including representatives of uniformed groups, civic and business leaders, gathered at the Cecil Charlton Park on Sunday, October 15, for the 2000 Heroes Day Salute and Awards.
Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, in his message which was read by Councillor Paul Pinto, said that Heritage Week provides an appropriate opportunity for people to reflect on the nation's history. He said that "as we recognise the contribution of our National Heroes we must also commit ourselves to rekindling a national spirit of excellence".
Guest speaker, Bruce Golding, president of the National Democratic Movement (NDM), lauded citizens of Manchester for their attitude to resist many of the negatives which have gripped the nation. Mr. Golding said that the life and work of the nation's National Heroes remained outstanding examples of vision, courage and commitment and challenged Jamaicans to emulate these qualities.
"The achievements of our National Heroes are testimonies that Jamaica has produced outstanding persons whose leadership have helped the nation to overcome challenges and adversities," said Mr. Golding.
However, he maintained that the people of today have wasted a lot of time and opportunity and must now move forward in a more profound way.
During the ceremony, 14 persons were presented with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commision/Manchester Cultural Development Committee Award for outstanding service. The awardees were Shirley Samuda for education; Sergeants Keith Allison and Renford Chambers for security; Mavis Francis and Dr. Verna Brooks-McKenzie, health. Margaret Jackson, Joyce Powell, Councillor Edrick Preddie, Trevor Lew, Dr. Gilbert Allen, Ferdinand Boyd, Bunny Hewitt, Trevor Heaven and Kevin O'Brien Chang received awards for community service.
