TRELAWNY, Jamaica — New York State Assembly member Brian Cunningham (43rd District), who has strong Jamaican roots, will declare open the New York-based Friends of Falmouth Symposium and Brunch on Saturday, May 25 in Brooklyn.

Cunningham was raised in Flatbush by Jamaican immigrant parents, including his mother, who is a native of Falmouth, Trelawny.

“His deep connections to the Jamaican community in Brooklyn highlight the significance of this event and its focus on strengthening the bonds within the Jamaican diaspora,” said Michael A Watkis, president of Friends of Falmouth (FOF)

In making the announcement, Watkis said the symposium and brunch is being held to bring together residents of Falmouth living in the tri-state area and beyond, with the aim of updating them on the myriads of business, economic, and cultural developments in Trelawny.

“Participants will have the exclusive opportunity to engage with key government agencies from the parish, unlocking access to the latest emerging opportunities and innovations,” Watkis said.

The event will be held at the Major R Owens Health & Wellness Community Center, 1561 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY.

Tickets for the branch are priced at US$50 each.

Watkis highlighted the importance of the event within the broader context of the Trelawny Memorial Day Weekend celebrations in New York, now in its 44th year.

“This weekend is a testament to the enduring spirit and unity of the Jamaican diaspora. The events, including the Friends of Falmouth fundraiser, the vibrant dances, mega-family picnic, and high school reunions, all serve to strengthen our resilient bonds and collective aspirations. These gatherings reflect the deep connection we maintain with our heritage and the ongoing commitment to uplift our community, both here and back home,” Watkis said.

Friends of Falmouth is a New York-based non-profit organisation focused on championing the rich cultural heritage of the historic town and advocating for sustainable economic and social development in the town.

Watkis added that one of the goals of Friends of Falmouth is to keep members and supporters updated on historic Falmouth and how the town is evolving as one of the fastest growing in Jamaica. Over the past decade, Falmouth has seen many changes and developments, including becoming a port of call for some of the world’s largest cruise liners.

“I am thrilled to announce that Falmouth mayor Colin Gager will headline our event as one of the main presenters, leading a distinguished delegation that includes two esteemed former mayors, Councillors Garth Wilkinson and [Jonathan] Fred Bartley,” Watkis said.

Another guest presenter will be Patrice Beharie, acting Principal of Falmouth Infant School, which Friends of Falmouth adopted in 2023 as part of its portfolio of projects in the town.

“Countless members of the Trelawny Diaspora fondly remember their formative years at ‘Pond School’. This cherished institution has played a pivotal role in shaping who we are today, and now, it’s our turn to give back and ensure its legacy continues,” Watkis said.