Hanna reports savings of $20 million from grand gala
YOUTH and Culture Minister Lisa Hanna says $20 million has been saved in this year’s staging of the Independence Grand Gala.
“Everything for Independence this year was produced in the Ministry of Youth and Culture and by the JCDC (Jamaica Cultural Development Commission). We didn’t have to outsource anything,” said Hanna.
She was speaking at the Spirit of Independence Awards presentation ceremony at the Louise Bennett Garden Theatre in St Andrew on Wednesday.
Hanna, in her address, said that for this year’s Independence, emphasis was placed on nationalism and ensuring that activities were held across the island.
“We wanted to bring a certain image to our Independence about being proud and free. We brought back the fashion theme; we brought back Coronation (Market) uptown. We made sure that the private sector and other individuals had a chance to participate in our celebrations,” she said..
Hanna also praised the young people who were actively involved in the planning and execution of events, particularly the Grand Gala.
The ceremony, organised by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), recognised Government agencies, businesses, including the media, that “truly displayed the Spirit of Independence” by adorning their space with the national colours during the period of celebrations to mark Jamaica’s Emancipation and Independence.
A total of 19 entities were recognised in various categories.
St Catherine Parish Council received the award for best decorated parish and town square; Monarch Pharmacy, Liguanea, won best window dressing; and the Transport Authority was the best decorated business/office.
A number of media companioes received certificates of appreciation for their promotion of Emancipation and Independence activities by making daily mentions, features and news stories. These include RJR 94FM, CVM Television and the Jamaica Observer.
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(lisa/gala1)
Youth and Culture Minister Lisa Hanna (right) presents a certificate of participation to director of public relations and customer services at the Jamaica Customs Agency, La Donna Manning at the Spirit of Independence Awards presentation ceremony held Wednesday at the Louise Bennett Garden Theatre in St Andrew.
(lisa/gala2)
Youth and Culture Minister Lisa Hanna (right), presents a plaque to assistant manager of Monarch Pharmacy, Liguanea, Terry Kelly, at the Spirit of Independence Awards presentation ceremony held at the Louise Bennett Garden Theatre in St Andrew on Wednesday. Monarch Pharmacy won the award in the best window dressing category.
(lisa/gala3)
Winner of the 2015 Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) Festival Song Competition, Lee-Roy ‘Ancient Priest’ Johnson, performs at the Spirit of Independence Awards presentation ceremony on Wednesday
(PHOTOS: JIS)
