GRENADIAN NATIONALS IN NEW YORK ENCOURAGED TO CONTINUE SUPPORTING COUNTRY’S DEVELOPMENT
Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, Feb 7, 2010 – Grenadians living in the Diaspora have been commended for their continued support in contributing meaningfully to Grenada’s development.  Finance Minister Nazim Burke, speaking at the annual Independence Gala & Awards in New York on Saturday, said that Grenadians have continued to show love and patriotism for their country despite the many challenges.

“Grenadians have a lot to celebrate as a nation in terms of achievement over the years, and in spite of all challenges faced over the period we have been able to rise above the occasion,” said Burke who spoke on behalf of Prime Minister Tillman Thomas.

“I want to commend the many Grenadians, including those of you here tonight, who continue to support the development of Grenada,” he said in his message to nationals attending the event at Antun’s in Queens, New York.

He said that Grenada has made its fair share of service to humanity over its 36 years as an independent island, noting the many “gifted and talented” Grenadians who are serving in various capacities around the world.

The event was attended by a wide cross-section of nationals in New York including Ambassador to the United Nations, Dr. Dessima Williams, Consul General Derrick James, members of the Caribbean Consular Corps in New York, former Ambassador Dr. Lamuel Stanisclaus and Chairman of the Independence Anniversary Committee, Derek Ventour.

Mr. Ventour outlined the achievements of the committee over the past year expressing appreciation for last year's support, saying, “Your monetary gifts from last year’s Gala were able to assist three institutions – the Paediatric ward at the General Hospital, the Richmond Home in Grenada and the Princess Royal Hospital in Carriacou as well as a presentation of medical supplies to the Ministries of Health and Social Development.”

Consul General James encouraged nationals to continue supporting these events since they provide valuable resources for programmes and projects in Grenada.  He said the second annual Grenada Day will be held on July 18th in Brooklyn, the provision of more medical assistance to Grenada especially in the area of cancer treatment and return to Grenada of the New York University’s Dental team are some of the plans for 2010.

Six awards were presented on Saturday night to individuals and organisations who have made significant contributions to the community.

Former Ambassador to the United Nations, Dr. Lamuel Stanisclaus was presented with a medal of honour and diamond award from the Independence Committee. The former diplomat also received a proclamation from US Congresswoman Yvette Clarke.

Also receiving awards were New York City council member Jumaane Williams; New York-based Grenadian chef Yvette Michelle La Crette; Saxophonist Casey Benjamin; PBC Alumni Association Inc. and Reach Grenada (Consul General’s Humanitarian Award).

The Humanitarian Award was among two presented for the first time at Independence celebrations by the Consulate.

New York-based Grenadian medical doctor, Roland Purcell, was presented with the Community Service Award at the Independence Church Service on January 31st.  The Independence Committee also collected $1220.00 from patrons as a contribution to the Haitian Relief following last month’s devastating earthquake.

The Gala and Awards Ceremony was the culmination of activities in New York celebrating Grenada’s 36th anniversary of Independence which included a Youth Festival; Ecumenical Church Service of Thanksgiving; Senior Citizens’ Tea Party; and Social Gathering.