On Mother’s Day, Sunday May 11th, 900 Jamaicans took a journey to Beijing. Guests were whisked on butterfly balloons to Suzhou Market Street, the Hall of Jade Billows, the Garden of Nurtured Harmony, the Forbidden City and Joyful Longevity. Leaving behind worries of visas and airport parking, families gathered together at the Chinese Benevolent Association (CBA) to enjoy the scrumptious fare provided by Pasty Lyn Caterers. The diners delighted to the tour of Beijing with the flight commander and tour guide, Dr Aggrey Irons. He delighted the audience with Chinese trivia and handed out prizes to brave diners who came on stage to answer questions or just to be a part of the fun.

The day’s events were to benefit not only the well-deserving mothers on their special day, but the Constant Spring Football Club (CSFC).

Now in its sixth year, the Mother’s Day brunch took the guests on a tour of Beijing’s cuisine. The smells and sights of the Chinese dishes have made Pasty Lyn caterers famous and this Mother’s Day event, a must do on the social calendar of many Jamaicans. Carrying a selection of the tasty delights, guest Lucille Miller, told the Observer, “I come every year, the food is wonderful.” The menu consisted of honey garlic chicken, roast pork, stir fried shrimps, Buddha’s delight (a lovely vegetable stir fry), egg roll, lumpia (spring roll) and plain fried rice. Drinks flowed freely as Grace Kennedy & Co provided fruit juices and other beverages while Sangsters Rum Cream smooth liquors were distributed by their friendly wait staff.

Truly a family event, children were seen darting to and fro the cavernous CBA Centre with a clown on hand to entertain them. It was a lovely Sunday where the true spirit of Jamaican camaraderie and hospitality was out in full force. This is an event sure to entice many repeat guests for next year’s flight to the Orient.

(Photos: Brian Cummings)