Dancehall deejay Aidonia delivered an outstanding performance at the recently concluded PAN 2016 Regional 2 event at Folly Oval in Portland. Though there were delightful sets from gospel artiste Rondell Positive and 2015 Magnum King of the Dancehall winner Devin Di Dakta, Aidonia’s set was high-energy and riddled with hits.

In keeping with the event’s family vibe, he imparted some positive words to the younger audience members. He stressed on the importance of staying in school and getting a sound education.

“Any opportunity I get to talk to the youth, I will always do that. I have a son, so I have to be responsible in what I do,” Aidonia told the Jamaica Observer.

During his hit-laden performance, he was engulfed by frenzied female fans who proceeded to pull him into the crowd. Tip Pon Yuh Toe, Run Road, Fi Di Jockey and Dat a Di Ting assisted the deejay on his voyage.

Promoted by CB Foods, PAN 2016 saw men and women from the parishes of Trelawny, St Thomas, St Ann, St Mary, Kingston and St Andrew, Portland and St Catherine competing in a live, 60-minute cook-off. A winner and runner-up were chosen from each parish to advance to the grand final on October 30 in Half-Way-Tree and vie for the coveted title of grand champion for 2016.

Comedian Dufton “Duffy” Shepherd was in his element, engaging patrons with various giveaways from sponsors. Later on, comedian Pretty Boy Floyd upped the ante with different competitions onstage as patrons competed for baskets of goodies from sponsors.

Portland-based up-and-coming entertainer Singer D, Portmore-based singer Jah Jah (son of veteran musician Earl “Chinna” Smith) and Dancin Dynamites 2013 winners Bullet Proof Dancers warmed the crowd prior to the main acts.

Armed with songs including More than a Conqueror, Take My Breath Away, Cover Me, Overcomer and Keeping Me Alive, gospel singer Rondell Positive was a hit with the crowd. His spiritual message was well-received by the large turnout of patrons numbering over 5,000.

“Performing on this event is like a dream come true. It is a family event and you’re able to send out positive messages, and that’s what Jamaica needs right now,” Rondell told the Observer shortly after his performance.

Devin Di Dakta was just as excited about performing for his home crowd.

“Well, it was an overwhelming feeling, especially when I jumped off the stage and start to hold the fans. I really enjoyed myself,” he said.

The female audience members enjoyed his performance, especially the radio favourite Rrribangbidengdeng.

“We switched things up with the entertainment and deliberately chose acts that were popular in Portland, who come from neighbouring parishes. Aidonia was a huge bonus and new to PAN,” said Alicia Bogues, brand manager CB Foods.

“The Monster Milk Kiddies Village did not disappoint, with a variety of rides including rock climbing wall and zip line. There was certainly entertainment for everyone,” she continued.

The winners in the PAN 2016 Regional 2 event were:

Kingston and St Andrew – Wayne Morgan

St Thomas Devon Parkins

Portland – Winston McLean

St Mary – Nicole Smith

St Ann – Cassius Gayle

Trelawny – Charlette Nelson

St Catherine – Kesna Bartley

Miracle Tomato Ketchup Tallawah Sauce competition: Terry Ann Davidson