32 THE BIG 7 PROMOTION TEAM would like to encourage you to celebrate in Peace and Harmony (Love). While we celebrate let’s pay homage to our ancestors and stride on the path of prosperity and happiness. Let us all work together as “one people” to leave a country past and future generations will be proud of. In the Words of the great Bob Marley “One Love”. JAMPRO IS pleased to join in celebrating Jamaica’s 60th year of Independence with the civic organisations, private sector companies, and Jamaican government departments in North America that are recognising this momentous occasion. The Jamaican diaspora in North America has stood by our country throughout the years by supporting their families and friends at home, and by providing business opportunities as a lucrative market for Jamaican goods and investments. Through your continued commitment and our strong connections that extend across borders, it is clear that the nation of Jamaica is not confined to one place, but can be seen far beyond the shores of our island. Thi s i s why these celebrations and the planned events to commemorate our achievements are important. They cement and confirm the bonds between Jamaicans far and wide, and they bring light to the fact that our peoplemake a significant impact wherever we go. To all Jamaicans in North America, thank you for your belief in what our island is, and what it can become. The future looks bright, and I believe that we will grow as we move in unison towards success and continue to affirm our motto that simply, but eloquently states, ‘Out of many, one people’. JAMPRO wishes you and all Jamaicans a happy and blessed Independence. Diane Edwards President, JAMPRO ‘The future looks bright ... we will grow as we move in unison towards success’ EMANCIPATION CONTINUED FROM 30 float will actually be shaped like a huge guitar,”Douglas shared. Hemmings emphasised that the energetic street parade will be “a blaze of colour”. “It will be a very visual experience. We will be looking at the sugar industry and its importance to the economy, and the banana as an agricultural crop from the days when the banana boat used to leave the pier in Port Antonio. It was at that pier that the popular Banana Boat Song (Day-O) originated. We want to capture the whole spirit of Independence and energise the nation through music and food,” Hemmings explained. Over at the welding shop, head welder Devon Robinson and his assistants were busy constructing their section of the assembly. “We had a little technicality in ensuring that the bop fits comfortably over the shoulders of the persons who will be wearing them. But thankfully, that is sorted out now. The costumes have to be both lightweight and comfortable,” Robinson explained. Like Douglas, he hopes that persons will be totally fascinated when everything is unveiled on Emancipation Day. Douglas, when asked if he thinks his costumes will be well received, replied with a question, “What have I ever done that hasn’t gone across well?” In outlining what will take place on August 1, Grange said: “We will have eight attractively decorated floats, five music trucks, classic cars, marching bands, and over 1,000 costumed revellers depicting several aspects of our historic journey to 60. We will welcome the return of masquerade bands, Jonkunu, and effigies in honour of our national heroes and cultural icons.” The festivities start at 10 a.m., and Grange is urging Jamaicans to come out in their thousands to celebrate and line the parade route as the revellers and floats make their way past certain landmarks, including Devon House, Clock Tower in Half-Way Tree, Emancipation Park, NCBTowers, Little Theatre, Bustamante Hospital for Children, and end up at the National Stadium car park. The theme for the float parade is ‘Reigniting a Nation for Peace, Love and Unity’. THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JULY 31 - OCTOBER 21, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | FEATURE
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