ORGANISERS of Sunday’s Tek A Stand beach party, slated for the picturesque Pineapple Beach in Unity Hall, St James, are embarking on a noble quest. The promoters have indicated an interest in bringing more awareness to the scourge of lottery scamming and the wave of violence associated with it.

The charity event, organised by Friendly Lodge 383 in Montego Bay, is now in its third year and had its origin as an after-party signalling the close of bird-shooting season.

The popular ‘Tek A Stand’ term among shooters has now evolved into a clarion call for people to take a stand against the ills affecting Jamaica.

“The event has been instrumental for providing much-needed financial assistance to various charities, primarily those focused on educational pursuits for our young people. However, on this occasion, we have chosen to highlight and target the scourge of lottery scamming and its destructive effects on our society. Considering the upsurge in murders in our city and surrounding areas, we felt that it was of paramount responsibility for everyone to get involved and share in this stance,” said Nevin Nish, charity steward of Friendly Lodge 383.

The lottery scam involves inducing American victims, mostly the elderly, to send monies as processing fees for ‘lottery winnings’. The Government of Jamaica, in response to complaints from the American Government, set up a task force in 2009 to stamp out the illegal activity.

According to police reports, the scam is also responsible for the upsurge in crimes, including murders, in the parish.

The food-and-drink-inclusive event is scheduled to begin at 10:00 am, with selector Craig ‘Young Lion’ Ross and Target Systems slated to handle musical juggling. Dance group Hah-R-Mony Entertainment, known for their high-energy performances, are also rostered to perform.