CONTRIBUTED
Paul Bitter (left) and Stuart Fisher having cocktails at The American Women's Group of Jamaica annual Valentine's Dinner and Dance, held at the Hilton Kingston Hotel, New Kingston on Saturday February 12.
Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter
VALENTINE IS the time for love and one way of showing love is to raise funds for those in need. The American Women's Group (AWG) of Jamaica did just that as it had its 10th Annual Dinner Dance and Silent Auction on February 12th at the Hilton Kingston Hotel.
About 300 guests showed up to help the AWG raise funds for its various charities, and have a swinging good time in the process.
MAIN EVENT
Following closely after a wine and cheese party they had last year, the dinner dance is the AWG's main fundraising event. Various companies and individuals graciously donated the gifts for the silent auction. From as early as 7:30 p.m., guests were seen peering intently at the paintings, watches, Norma Harrack-designed ceramic pieces, Stuart Lacy and Howard Moo Young photographs and various other prizes.
Judging by the many sponsors, the AWG gets much support and even the Charges d'affaires of the US embassy Cliff Tighe was around, underlining his embassy's support of the organisation. The AWG provides 38 scholarships to mostly grade and high school students. Other charities that benefit include the Allman Town School, the Red Cross, St. Francis Outreach, Stella Maris Foundation, St. Andrew's Agricultural Scholarship, Jamaica Aids Support, Salvation Army, the STEP Centre as well as many old age and children's homes.
ENTERTAINMENT
Entertainment was provided by David Hale on guitar during cocktails and the always excellent 50/50 Band during and long after, dinner.
The AWG was formed over two decades ago in the hope of fostering friendship, and providing support for American women within the Jamaican community.
Among those packing into the Hilton Kingston Hotel was president Brunetta Matthews and husband Charles; Stuart Fisher of SuperClubs and wife Yvonne; Ecuadorian Consul Clelia Hunter; Honorary Consul of Iceland, Robert McMillan; Trefina Asiedu; Jamaica Broilers' Robert Levy and wife, Judy; Tanya Ho Shue; Allison Peart; Edith Jarbeau; Aubyn and Tamara Hill; Dennis and Dawn Williams; Ian Wong; Willie Lampert and Anna Kaiser and Sameer and Leila Younis.
